Tower Height and UHF Reception

[otaer]

I'm going to install a UHF antenna on a 45-foot tower.

This height easily clears my roof and all the houses or trees around me.

I was considering an even higher tower at 64 feet.

I know higher is always better, but would there be much difference in UHF digital reception at 64 feet vs. 45 feet?

[winegard]

Good morning otaer -

A higher antenna tower would certainly offer more signal level from the television antenna but it may not be necessary for the UHF DTV signal. Your location is such that the 45 ft. tower clears obstructions and being at or above the 30 ft. FCC planning height for DTV signal coverage the location should receive reliable DTV.



The question of tower height for DTV reception is one of distance and surface conditions to the transmitting location. In "clear" conditions as described, a 40 ft. tower generally provides reliable DTV signal reception to 55 miles. At distances of 55 miles to 75 miles, tower heights to 65 ft. may be required.