50ft of RG6 component cable = snow. How to fix?

Question

I have a long cable run that goes through the ceiling from my component switchbox to my video projector. I've noticed that if I pause the image and stand closer to the screen, I can see a lot of video snow in areas of solid color. This static in the image is ever-changing so its motion is degrading my image a bit. The 2.5" x 1.5' pipe that suspends my projector has both the video and the power cable running through it. Is this the culprit or the long cable run? If it's the cable, how can I clean up the image? Changing to DVI isn't practical for me because I can't afford a DVI switching receiver and my component video PS2 output can't be converted cheaply. Would three cheap rca jack video amplifiers in the ceiling beef up the signal? Can you amplify a signal too much and damage a projector? Any anwers to the above are greatly appreciated. Thanks.

Answer 1

I have installed many projectors with rg-6 being used as component video with many over 50 ft. The problem of snow is most likely you source or projector. PS2 is not the cleanest of sources and unless you have a really high end projector, it may be converting the native rate of your PS2 to its native rate (800x600) or whatever etc. There would be "artifacts" created during this transition and depending on the quality of your projector would be barely noticable or may appear as "snow". Also, it is only component video so please remember that may be "as good as it gets". Also, terminate the RG-6 directly to RCA if needed do not install BNC then convert it as it makes for a sloppy install. A company called HIP as well many others make "connector caddy" assortments to turn RG-6 into just about anything. The crimp tool for it is specialized and expensive as are the crimps, but man are they nice. Terminating into bnc and putting that adapter on adds some noise as well as another point that is (likely in my experience) to fail. Please post another question with more details to try to clarify the problem. use brands and models as well as inputs used and lines of resolution specifications.

Answer 2

50ft is a long run for video. It is very important to use high quality low-loss cable. You can't go by RG designation alone. One of the best available cables is Belden 8281B. I use it for a 35-ft run without a problem, and know someone who has a 50-ft run of that cable. You will have to mount your own terminations; use genuine 75-ohm BNC cable terminations, and a BNC to RCA plug adapter if necessary. Belden 8281B is the cable used by TV studios for long runs. Search the internet for a supplier that will sell you about 150ft; Here is a possibility http://www.a2dsolutions.com/p406.html It is less expensive than specialty cables (like Canare) and just as good. It is worth the price of a good coax crimping tool (from Radio Shack) to make up your own cable. Even with the tool cost, it will be cheaper than pre-made or custom-made cable.

The other thing I would do is use shielded power cable.

Do not use cheap booster amps; they will add noise and may limit bandwitdth. I would consider amps as a last resort, they should be high quality, and mounted at the source end of the cable run. However, I really think the 8281B cable should work.

Answer 3

If he is using RG6 component, it's 75ohm and as good as you are realistically going to get.

Verify you are not running parallel to any power lines (romex). If you have to cross over any electrical lines verify they run at a 90 degrees to each other. Also try moving one of the lines to composite input on both ends and see if it still occurs

Another troubleshooting option is to turn off all lights especially dimers. They can often cause picture interference.

good luck.

Answer 4

Sounds like your signal is degrading. Def. upgrade on cables and maybe get a repeater. Your projector should be fine.

Answer 5

i like SNOW! regrettably i could be fortunate if we even had sooner or later of snow the place I stay. We in elementary terms had somewhat moist flurry final 3 hundred and sixty 5 days. it is so unhappy :_( yet there is your celebrity. savour it and the snow. reliable for you =)