cable tv and subwoofer hum

[keenween]

Remind me how to solve this:

If I plug in the coax cable connection to the back of my tv, my subs hum. So I'm pretty sure this is just a ground loop. The tv is not connect to the audio system except for being plugged into the same surge protector.

Do I just need some two prong plugs on my three prong subwoofer plugs?

[Bugbitten]

Remind me how to solve this:

If I plug in the coax cable connection to the back of my tv, my subs hum. So I'm pretty sure this is just a ground loop. The tv is not connect to the audio system except for being plugged into the same surge protector.

Do I just need some two prong plugs on my three prong subwoofer plugs?

Probably! Worked for me.

[Ajax]

If there is a ground loop problem with your cable hookup, the best thing to do is check the ground connection for your cable hookup. If you're like me, and wouldn't know what to look for, call your cable company and get them to come out and check it.

Next, there are ground isolators that can, in some cases solve the problem.

ART DTI Dual Input Inline Transformer/Isolator ($35 when you add it to your cart)

http://www.techtoast.com/product/Jensen/VRD-1FF]Jensen VRD-1FF

A Google search for ground loop isolators may turn up other models

Lastly, there is the inexpensive ground lifters found at Home Depot, Lowe's, or just about any hardware or store with an electrical section (Walmart, etc.)



There is some controversy as to the safety of using one of these, so I am NOT RECOMMENDING you use one. However, I've used them for years with no ill effect. YMMV.

[Chu Gai]

Do you know if your incoming cable is grounded properly outside and tied to your grounding rod? If not, you may want to first contact your provider and have them do the job correctly.

[keenween]

Thanks for the feedback. I will be sure to check the grounding on the cable and have it fixed if needed.

[Chu Gai]

Cheater plugs may work. They're cheap but it's not a recommended practice because electrical safety can be compromised. While the odds are with you there are other approaches. Some are like I said. Some definitely cost more than a cheater plug. The thing is you don't necessarily know what'll work because the reasons aren't the same for everyone. For example, CalRad makes a product that can eliminate or minimize hum but with many people having boxes that require 2-way communication, it 'may' affect things. Often if it's possible, going from a coax connection to an optical one from the cable box does the trick.

[Ajax]

Often if it's possible, going from a coax connection to an optical one from the cable box does the trick.

Interesting! I'd not heard that one before. Certainly an easy thing to check and well worth investigating.

[Chu Gai]

Well, I'm making the assumption, which may not be valid, that not only will the box accept either or, but will function equally as well. You see, if the problem is that the ground potential is different for the cable feed and/or the box from everything else, then if you make the connection with optical there's no electrical connection. After all, plastic or glass doesn't conduct electricity. Of course, if the material covering the fiber contains metal and the connectors are metal, **** can happen.

[keenween]

Yeah, I don't have a cable box, so running optical isn't feasible. I still haven't checked the grounding...

I have had cable for almost three months...but I just use the package for internet and not watching tv...the dual package was way cheaper than internet only, weird. I'd like to watch some football games this fall though and I'd rather not turn off my subs every time I turn on the tube.

[Gigi Krop]

Subwoofer Hmmm

What is the other side of the coaxil cable hooked up to?

[keenween]

I have the cable coax going direct into my tv.

[Chu Gai]

No grounding block of any sort that ties into the grounding rod? Might want to bounce this off your provider as to what their procedures are for installing cable into a home. Phone call is cheap enough.