Newpoint Adds HDTV Antenna To Product Line

By Staff On Jan 5 2006 - 8:00am

Newpoint is introducing two TV antennas during International CES, showcasing both its indoor/outdoor amplified HDTV antenna, model 208250 and urban/suburban indoor TV antenna, model 208240.

The indoor/outdoor amplified HDTV antenna incorporates an enhanced UHF element that is specifically designed to receive digital (ATSC) broadcasts. The antenna incorporates a 20dB low-noise amplifier; waterproof and anti-UV housing, which allow the antenna to be mounted either inside or outdoors for maximum reception. The unit includes all of the necessary hardware for mounting on either a wall or an antenna mast, the company said.

“Our new indoor/outdoor HDTV antenna is engineered for optimized reception in the UHF frequency range, where most digital over-the-air broadcasts, including HDTV programming, are currently transmitted,” said Brian Dunfee, connectivity and home theater products senior product manager.

The urban/suburban indoor TV antenna allows consumers to change the amplification gain range to suit their environment with a simple slide switch. “Most consumers have no idea that over-amplifying a TV signal can degrade the picture and sound quality almost as much as under-amplifying can,” said Dunfee.

The amplification gain range can be changed from 25dB for urban environments that are typically closer to the TV broadcast transmitters, to 45dB for suburban environments that are usually further away from the transmitters, the firm said.

“Our new urban/suburban antenna is designed to fulfill the needs of both urban and suburban dwellers. This allows our retail partners to offer their customers a TV reception solution, while maintaining manageable inventory levels,” said Dunfee.

Both antennas from the Plymouth, Minn.-based company, which also trades under the Power Sentry brand, will be available in April. The Urban/Suburban antenna has a suggested $49.99 retail and the HDTV antenna is $59.99.