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wayner61 · 03-16-2011, 10:09 AM

Monica -

I installed a digital converter for my mom's old TV. It's no big deal.

Cable from the wall connects to the converter. Cable from the converter goes to the TV. Plug the converter into an AC outlet and follow the instructions to set-up, program / scan for channels. The new converter box will likely come with it's own remote for changing channels. The TV will be forever on channel 3 or 4.

BTW - very cool blog. Super nice photos. If you can figure out how to cook Risotto, you can easily install the converter box.

idmtman · 03-16-2011, 10:21 AM

I am going through this same process. I have verified that my Sony WEGA TV (original equipment) is not digital ready. I am ready to purchase a converter but am a little perplexed how and where to connect it. It appears that I can install the converter between the TV amp faceplate coax connector and the dual coax faceplate "cable/sat. in" coax connection. Apparently for the TV to work with the antenna, the PO installed the jumper cable between these two points so if I install the converter between these two points, theoretically, it should provide for conversion.

However, having said all of that, the diagrams in the owner's manual seem to contradict all of this. I have searched the forums and found other owners of 2006 Safari's with the same set-up as mine and they seem to use the same jumper configuration to get the TV to work on the antenna.

Before I purchase a converter box, I would sure like to know if I am on the right track.

idmtman · 03-16-2011, 10:28 AM

Attached is a picture of the faceplate configuration with the jumper cable attached as per the PO. Edit: having trouble figuring out how to attach a photo, here is the link: http://www.airforums.com/photos/show...0&userid=53021

jdalrymple · 03-16-2011, 10:46 AM

No need to change antennas to receive Digital TV. The antenna doesn't know or care if the signal is digital or analog. Neither does the amplifer in the wingard head.

idmtman, does the cable in your photo connect between the antenna faceplate and the sat/cable "in" port? If so, yes the convertor can go between the "out" port and the TV, or anywhere along this series of connections.

As mentioned above, you will change channels on the convertor box, not the TV. Keep the convertor where it's remote can "see" it.

Regards,

idmtman · 03-16-2011, 10:52 AM

Thanks Jeff.

I was thinking of installing the converter box along the path of the jumper cable as it currently exists. That makes the most sense to me. I appreciate the help.

Dave

zigzagguzzi · 03-16-2011, 12:57 PM

Went to best buy to buy converter. I bought the last one and they said they would not be stocking any. Online is the way to go, I guess. Dealer installed mine for less than 30 dollars. zz

au_ee · 03-16-2011, 01:56 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by J5MM

Has anyone installed a "digital converter box" ? Our 2006' Airstream's sony tv is not digital ready.

Just wondering if anyone has installed a digital converter box and if it's complicated?

Our Sony was HD compatible but not have a digital tuner built in. We thought about using a converter, they only cost $26-40 depending on where you purchase and are easy to install. But we decided to use the old sony as a Computer Monitor since it had the appropriate connections and replaced it with a nicer set. All I have to do now is replace that stupid swing out bracket with a fixed mount.

mojo · 03-16-2011, 01:59 PM

Brought the Sony Wega into the house and hooked up to Dish satellite. Works great.

Stuffed converter box in garage.

Ordered new 12 volt tv for trailer which hooks up to the Sony 12 DVD player.
Who needs electric hookups.

w7ts · 03-16-2011, 02:01 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by au_ee

Our Sony was HD compatible but not have a digital tuner built in. We thought about using a converter, they only cost $26-40 depending on where you purchase and are easy to install. But we decided to use the old sony as a Computer Monitor since it had the appropriate connections and replaced it with a nicer set. All I have to do now is replace that stupid swing out bracket with a fixed mount.

If your 31 is set up like ours, put in a fixed mount and you won't be able to read the comfort control.

I can't read the display on our comfort control until I move the TV out of the way.

Ken

Lumatic · 03-16-2011, 02:35 PM

Winegard also makes a simple add on for the Batwing. At least Winegard claims a significant reception boost at the higher number stations using this "Wingman".

AirsDream · 03-16-2011, 03:29 PM

"Ordered new 12 volt tv for trailer which hooks up to the Sony 12 DVD player.
Who needs electric hookups. "

Mojo's got the right idea here ... "we don't need no stinkin' converter boxes!" ... especially if they need 120v. It's pretty nice to be able to boondock without generator or inverter and still run the whole shebang off the batteries and solar panels on 12v. Try it, you'll like it.

J5MM · 03-16-2011, 04:32 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by idmtman

I am going through this same process. I have verified that my Sony WEGA TV (original equipment) is not digital ready. I am ready to purchase a converter but am a little perplexed how and where to connect it. It appears that I can install the converter between the TV amp faceplate coax connector and the dual coax faceplate "cable/sat. in" coax connection. Apparently for the TV to work with the antenna, the PO installed the jumper cable between these two points so if I install the converter between these two points, theoretically, it should provide for conversion.

However, having said all of that, the diagrams in the owner's manual seem to contradict all of this. I have searched the forums and found other owners of 2006 Safari's with the same set-up as mine and they seem to use the same jumper configuration to get the TV to work on the antenna.

Before I purchase a converter box, I would sure like to know if I am on the right track.

I'm going to take the plunge and buy a converter box. I'll post pictures of the process once I get it. Sounds like you and I have the same setup

J5MM · 03-16-2011, 04:34 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by wayner61

Monica -

I installed a digital converter for my mom's old TV. It's no big deal.

Cable from the wall connects to the converter. Cable from the converter goes to the TV. Plug the converter into an AC outlet and follow the instructions to set-up, program / scan for channels. The new converter box will likely come with it's own remote for changing channels. The TV will be forever on channel 3 or 4.

BTW - very cool blog. Super nice photos. If you can figure out how to cook Risotto, you can easily install the converter box.

That was such a nice compliment, thank you!! Also your instructions sound pretty simple/intuitive -- I have faith I will be able to do it.!!

J5MM · 03-16-2011, 04:36 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by au_ee

Our Sony was HD compatible but not have a digital tuner built in. We thought about using a converter, they only cost $26-40 depending on where you purchase and are easy to install. But we decided to use the old sony as a Computer Monitor since it had the appropriate connections and replaced it with a nicer set. All I have to do now is replace that stupid swing out bracket with a fixed mount.

Let me know how that works out for you. I would love a fixed mount for our TV instead of the swing out bracket.