Splitting Antenna Cable

Scenario: My Empeg's output goes to my car's Kenwood head unit, which I am currently using for AM/FM radio and the occasional CD. I just ordered the tuner module, but I still plan on using my head unit as my amplifier.

Today it occurred to me that even though I'm getting the tuner module, it would be nice to have AM/FM capability on my head unit. On short trips to the grocery store, for instance, I sometimes leave my Empeg at home rather than drag it out, take it out of its case, slide it in for one or two songs, pull it out, put it back in its case, and carry it back into the house (whilst also trying to carry groceries!)

So my question: Can the antenna cable be split to feed into both my Kenwood's tuner and my Empeg's tuner module? It seems to me this might cause some sort of weakness in reception, or perhaps not be feasible at all... I'm guessing I'd have to fashion my own cable to do this? I cannot imagine this is a common practice, but the ability to listen to the radio without my Empeg in the car would be advantageous.

So, can this be done?

-Tony
MkII #554

Well, this is routinely done with TV antenna cables, where avoiding signal reflection is more critical than in the case of radio. Splitter is a small device that does something with cable impedance, IIRC.

Here my knowledge of the subject ends. Somebody take over, please!

Dragi "Bonzi" Raos
Zagreb, Croatia
Q#5196, MkII#80000376, 18GB green

Yah, I've done it with TV and home audio antennas which is where I got the idea. I just didn't know if there were any particulars about car antennas... So I did a search on Radio Shack's web site and I came across this little item. It looks like it might be just what I need. Looks like I'm stopping by Radio Shack on my way home tonight. It's got a built in capacitor which is probably needed due to the impedence issues you mentioned.

So maybe it's possible after all...

-Tony
MkII #554

I used one of those RS splitters to share the antenna with an alarm pager add-on. A bit awkward due to the inflexibilty of the splitter, but no problems so far. There are other, sleeker splitters on installer.com -- I might try one of those for my V2.0 install.

Jim

I have accomplished exactly what you are trying to do.The only thing is, you need the inverse of the part you linked. I picked one up at a local electronics store for about $4 USD. It is a Y splitter with (2) 6" male leads.
I'll see if I can find a brand name on it.

Mk2 #105 32g blue, w/tuner

Oohh the one on installer.com looks great. Thanks for the tip!

-Tony
MkII #554