Complete Guide To TV Aerial Connectors

A TV aerial is a passport to enjoying the latest shows. To ensure you can always catch up on every must-watch series, your aerial needs to be connected to your TV using a coaxial connector, which carries video and data signals from the aerial to your television.

There are seven key types of coaxial connectors:

• 7/16 DIN
• BNC
• MCX
• QMA
• RCA
• SMB
• TNC

Different Types of Coaxial Connectors

7/16 DIN

DIN, or Deutsches Institut für Normung, is the German Institute for Standardisation. 7/16 DIN are threaded connectors with a tough design made to withstand exposure to moisture.

BNC

Delivering rapid connection and disconnection, Bayonet Neil-Concelman, or BNC, connectors have a smaller design and are made for use with radios, TV, and other AV equipment.

MCX

Micro coaxial, or MCX connectors are suitable for use where there is limited space thanks to a compact design and easy attachment. Commonly used with Wi-Fi routers.

QMA

With a snap-on design made for fast attachment and removal, QMA connectors are robust, vibration-resistant, and suitable for use outdoors.

RCA

Used to connect TVs, DVD players, speakers, Hi-Fi equipment, and games consoles, RCA connectors have a colour-coded design to aid with identifying audio and video signals.

SMB

Subminiature Version B connectors (SMB) are easy to use with telecoms equipment and are handy in areas where space is limited thanks to a miniature design.

TNC

Threaded Neil-Concelman, or TNC connectors are a type of BNC connector made for outdoor use

What is a Wall Mounted Coaxial Socket?

A wall mounted coaxial socket is used to connect a TV to the aerial. A coaxial cable is plugged into the TV and also into the coaxial socket, connecting the television to the aerial.  Also known as TV or aerial sockets, they are mounted on the wall in an area of the room where a television is likely to be placed.

What is a Coax IEC Plug?

Coax IEC plugs allow a television to be connected to an aerial or set-top box for Freeview or Sky TV. Two types of coax IEC plugs are commonly used:

• Male IEC plug. A male connection that is inserted into the aerial input of your TV
• Female IEC plug. A female connection used to connect to a set-top box

Standard Polarity vs Reverse Polarity Coaxial Connectors

Standard Polarity

The Male connector has a centre pin and the Female connector has a receptacle instead of a centre pin.

Reverse Polarity

The Male connector has a receptacle and the Female connector has a centre pin. This prevents attempted connections between male and male or female and female connectors, which can damage the connector and impact the signal.

Speak To the Aerial Specialists

AAS are experts in everything relating to aerials, so if your TV aerial needs repairing or replacing, we can help. Complete our contact form to get in touch or call 01933 730 325 to speak to our team.