Newbie seeking aerial connection advice

[RoRo]

Hi all, looks like a nice community on this forum

Quick question or two from a technically dyslexic newbie:

I need to install a wideband aerial on the roof to obtain a good reception from the Main TV transmitter for my freeview set-top box in the bedroom, and my HDTV in the livingroom where the aerial is currently pointing towards the Relay transmitter for a reception.
The Relay transmitter will only get 20 channels (as from early next year) and nothing now!<cry> and the Main transmitter Now gets 20 channels or so with a further 20 channels once analogue signal is switched off. So, I want all the channels asap..lol
My queries are:

Is there a way to connect the two TV's using one wideband aerial other than using a coaxial splitter?

Does the coaxial splitter cause a weaker reception?

Does the coaxial cable length determin the strength of the signal? (shorter the better?) I have at least 20m between TV's..

any info regarding this would be much appreciated.

thanks in advance

[lincsat]

If you have a weak signal, don't use a splitter, use a booster. You could either fit a 2 way amp in the loft (or other convenient location) or use a Masthead amp. Keeping the amp as close as possible to the aerial will compensate for any cable losses.

You could also consider Freesat (or Freesat from Sky), with the advantage of getting proper HD programming from freesat for your main TV.

[RoRo]

Thanks for your reply lincsat
I also forgot to mention that the HDTV in the livingroom has a Sky digibox (not Sky+) attached to it. :-)
Where would I get a Good Masthead amp and what do they cost roughly?
Can these be used via wireless connectivity rather than using 20m of coaxial cable?

[RoRo]

Oh! another couple of questions..
Would adding a booster to amplify the aerial reception, not only amplify the signal but, also amplify noise?
If this is the case, what is a recommended booster for my set-up?
thanks again.

[lincsat]

Yes they do amplify noise as well, so you do need some signal to start with. There are amps available from Argos (probably not masthead), where you can take them back if they don't work.

You can get a 2 way masthead from Screwfix - _http://www.screwfix.com/prods/52130/Electrical/TV-Range/Amplifiers-Distribution/Labgear-Screened-Masthead-Amp-2-Way-12dB

You will need a PSU with this as stated in the description.

[RoRo]

Thanks dude

[RoRo]

Ok, I bought 30m of coaxial (75ohm) cable, SL4X booster and will be trying this out shortly with the assistance of a local aerial techie guy. Thanks lincsat