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While big multidirectional antennas get the best tv signal reception, I actually prefer dealing with more compact units that are similarly multidirectional but are easier to set up around the house.
The Pingbingding WA-2900A antenna has such a design and offers tools-free assembly along with an installation kit consisting of useful items like a coaxial cable and a preamplifier.
Its durable and weatherproof aluminum and plastic frame with the back reflector offers reduced wind load to minimize shaking and stabilize tv signal reception.
The manufacturer also has a reputation for outstanding technical support. With this antenna, you’ll get an installation guide and detailed troubleshooting instructions.
Features and Benefits
Attached to the WA-2900A are two large reflectors that help focus signal reception and increase the antenna’s gain – for you engineers out there, the VHF gain is 18-28 dB, and for UHF it’s 20-30 dB.
Here, the dipoles are arranged along a single vertical axis, which is reminiscent of the design of the ClearStream 2V antenna.
The manufacturer gives a nominal range of 150 miles for this antenna; however, this is likely unachievable for the average homeowner as the curvature of the earth generally limits TV antenna signal reception to 60-80 miles. Greater ranges are possible, but the antenna must be placed high in the air.
This antenna is ideal for owners who live in areas of fringe reception; its multidirectional characteristics allow it to receive signals from local stations that are spaced apart within an arc of up to 180 degrees with respect to your location.
Customers who want wider angles of reception often mount a second antenna and combine the signals from both. Or, they purchase a rotor on which they mount this antenna for 360-degree coverage.
Included in this package is 39 feet of RG6 coaxial cable, as well as an antenna J-mast that you can optionally use.
The antenna also comes with a preamplifier whose gain you can adjust in order to optimize channel reception.
Frequency and Channel Types
Supporting a picture resolution of up to full HD (1080p), as well as Ultra 4K, it’s capable of receiving high VHF along with the full spectrum of UHF.
RF channels, otherwise known as real or broadcast channels, aren’t normal TV channels but are allocations of spectrum used by stations for broadcast programming.
You can find out which RF channels your local stations are using by consulting the RabbitEars.info website.
Installing the Pingbingding Outdoor Antenna
Assembly
The antenna comes mostly pre-assembled, with an array of parts that you snap on and attach together using hand-tightened wing nuts.
The installation manual is quite detailed and even contains a link to an installation video.
After assembly, you should test the antenna before mounting it in order to verify that everything’s functioning. This includes plugging the coaxial into your TV and running a channel scan.
Installation
When mounting any antenna, you should find a spot offering the cleanest line of sight to surrounding transmission towers.
As already mentioned, this package comes with a J-mount antenna mast, so you don’t have to run out and buy one yourself.
As the antenna is directional, it should be aimed at TV stations. You can run a channel scan and reorient it in a trial-and-error sort of way until you get optimal reception.
If the length of the supplied coaxial isn’t sufficient, you can extend it with high-quality RG6 coaxial cable like MediaBridge Ultra Series tri-shielded coaxial, along with F-type connectors.
You may install this antenna in the attic, but keep in mind that building materials and walls may introduce interference. Many attic installations do work, however, so it might be worth trying if you feel it’s necessary.
Grounding the Antenna
Remember to ground both the coaxial cable and antenna mast, running copper wires from both to your house ground. This will help preserve your TV and other connected equipment during thunderstorms.
Connecting the Antenna to Several TVs
Using a splitter device, you can connect this antenna to more than one TV in your household. If you’re considering connecting multiple TVs, make sure to install the splitter at the end of the coaxial cable.
You can also call Pingbingding for technical support if you need help.
Pros
- High antenna gain of VHF and UHF frequencies
- Comes with a preamplifier and mounting equipment
- Tools-free assembly and easy installation
Cons
- Supplied coaxial cable may not be long enough for your needs
Summary
Overall what appeals to me the most about the Pingbingding WA-2900A antenna is its small form, and its included coaxial cable plus its ease of installation – you won’t need DIY talent to set this thing up.
The affordable wide-angle receptor is ideal for those living outside of urban areas and offers powerful VHF and UHF reception.
It’s one of the very few multidirectional antennas on the market that come with a preamplifier.
The company offers some of the best technical support I’ve seen, along with detailed materials for helping you mount it to start getting OTA television.
NOTE: For a comparable product that’s similarly multidirectional (but wider) and long-range, have a look at the Channel Master CM-4228HD antenna.
Pingbingding WA-2900A Manual
For those interested in more technical details about this antenna, here’s the Pingbingding WA-2900A installation manual.
Design
|
Direction |
Multidirectional |
|
Coaxial cable length (feet) |
39 |
|
Dimensions in inches (H x W x L) |
17.5 x 13.4 X 6 |
|
Preamplifier |  |
|
Our rating | 4.5 / 5 |
Reception
|
Antenna range (miles) |
150 (likelier max 80) |
|
Channels |
Full HD (1080p) |
|
Frequencies |
VHF/UHF |
Help & Support
|
Warranty |
1 year |
|
Email support | |
|
Phone support |  |
Covering the Basics
Sometimes it can be a challenge to decide which TV antenna is going to be best for you. So, let’s run through a few of the basics as you narrow down your choices and consider the Pingbingding WA-2900A.
VHF and UHF
Digital signals can be broadcast over different frequency ranges, similar to analog signals. These frequency ranges are VHF (very high frequency) and UHF (ultra high frequency).
In the VHF channel range, the low-band physical (also known as “real”) channels are 2 – 6. High-band VHF channels are 7-13. The UHF channel range is 14 – 51.
The biggest difference between the two is going to be the size. Since VHF frequencies are lower, the waves are longer, and this is going to require a much larger antenna surface in order to receive those signals.
Directional Versus Multidirectional
The Pingbingding TV antenna we have reviewed above is a multidirectional antenna. This means that the antenna can receive signals from multiple directions, unlike a directional antenna that can only receive a signal from one compass heading.
RabbitEars.info can help you locate your desired stations so you can achieve a much stronger signal strength.
Pingbingding WA-2900A FAQ
Can a Splitter Be Used with the Pingbingding WA-2900a Antenna?
No. It’s recommended that you connect the cables to the power insert directly rather than using any kind of splitter or switch between the antenna and the power insert.
If you find that the cable you’re using is not long enough, you can then use an F-F coupler to extend the cable.
Is This Antenna Easy to Set Up?
Yes. Pingbingding antennas are definitely easy to install. It really only takes a few simple steps.
First, connect the coax cable of the antenna into the back of your digital TV and find the optimal placement for the antenna. Finally, you can begin to scan for all available channels and enjoy free TV.
Does This Antenna Come with the Mounting Hardware That Is Needed?
You will not have to hunt for a suitable mounting pole for this TV antenna.
With your purchase, you’ll receive the Pingbingding antenna, Amplified Antenna Main Unit, UL adapter, power insert, 40-foot coax cable, and the mounting pole.
What Is the Frequency of This TV Antenna?
With this outdoor TV antenna, you’ll get an incredible 150-mile range. It also has a built-in amplifier and is a multidirectional antenna that can receive high definition television and digital signals.
What Kind of Protections Are in Place for This Outdoor Antenna?
This is a weather-resistant outdoor antenna and is lightning protected. It has a more than durable design that can withstand inclement weather conditions outdoors.
