Forum Discussion

Explorer

Jul 21, 2018

Antenna will not work unless MH plugged in

I have my TV fixed so it can run it off the cigarette lighter. Unfortunately, I can't receive any channels unless the MH is plugged in. With the unit unplugged, the booster light is on and the battery is showing 4 out of five bars. Nothing will come in unless the MH is plugged in. We are in the midst of a power outage expected to last several days, so I am trying to conserve fuel for the generator.

Any ideas?

14 Replies

jspringator
Explorer
Jul 21, 2018
I’m showing 3 of 4 bars after it has been unplugged a while. Runs tv fine.
Bill_Satellite
Explorer II
Jul 21, 2018
It sounds like the battery/batteries is/are dead. When plugged in your converter or inverter/charger is supplying enough power to the battery for the battery to power the antenna but when not plugged in there is nothing to add power to the battery and the battery voltage is too low to run things.
Mandalay_Parr
Explorer
Jul 21, 2018
Sounds like low battery voltage.
Need to measure with a meter regardless of the indicator lights.
Straylight
Explorer
Jul 21, 2018
In what way is your TV fixed to run off the cigarette lighter? Has your antenna worked on battery power previously and just isn't working now?