How to Install Cable in Your New Home

If you’ve moved to a new home, one of the first tasks you may want to tackle is installing cable in your home. Cable is an important service that will let you watch the shows and movies you love, stay up to date with news and sports, and get access to internet services. Installing cable can seem daunting, but it’s actually quite simple if you follow the right steps.

This blog post will walk you through the process of installing cable in your new home, step-by-step. We’ll provide tips on how to find the right cable provider, how to prepare for installation, and more. So read on for all the information you need to get the cable up and running in your new place!

At A Glance

Moving your cable TV service to a new home doesn’t have to be a complicated process, especially if you’re staying with the same provider. Existing customers can take their cable box along with them to their new home, while those signing up for the first time may be offered a new cable box for self-installation. Once you have your cable service set up, you can either install it yourself or call in a professional (aka the “cable guy”) to help. This guide will provide a step-by-step outline of how to set up cable TV on your own.

Let’s dive in and get started!

3 ways to install cable in your new home

Whether you’re setting up your new home or just looking to upgrade the way you watch TV, understanding the best ways to connect cable is essential. In the past, coaxial connections between the wall and your TV would be enough for basic channels, but now a digital cable box is necessary for full access. To help you get the ideal connection for your needs, here are three smart ways to connect a cable to your TV:

• HDMI cable: Best picture quality
• Coaxial cable: Quickest setup
• S-Video cable or composite-video cable: For older TVs

All these three ways require an active cable service and a TV Box from the cable provider. Once you have these, connecting your TV to cable can be done in minutes.

1. HDMI Cable:

An HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) cable offers superior-quality audio and video signals that provide an optimal viewing experience. It’s also a great choice if you want to take advantage of 4K or HDR content from streaming services such as Netflix or Amazon Prime Video. Using an HDMI cable is easy – just plug one end into your television’s HDMI port and the other end into your cable box’s output port.

2. Coaxial Cable:

A coaxial digital audio/video connection provides a reliable, distortion-free signal that transfers picture quality faster than other cables while still being relatively simple to install. All it takes is connecting one end of a coaxial cable to the back of your television and then running the other end directly from the wall outlet into your cable box input port. This option doesn’t require any extra hardware or adapters, which can make setup time quicker and more efficient compared with some of the other options available.

3. S-Video Cable or Composite-Video Cable:

If you have an older television set and you don’t want to buy a new model in order to watch digital cable programming, using an S-Video connector may be what you need in order to get going. An S-Video connection will carry both audio and video signals from your device up through four separate wires that must be plugged in individually on each side (on both your device and television). Similarly, composite cables require three wires – yellow for video signals and red/white for audio signals – that transmit all data at once between devices. These options typically offer better image quality than RF connections do but are not quite as sharp as those offered by HDMI cables; however, they can still work well with certain older television sets if used correctly.

Things To Do Before Installing Your Cable

Before you start the installation process, there are a few things that need to be done first in order to ensure a successful cable setup.

1. Determining Your Cable Provider

The first step to cable installation is determining which cable provider you want to use. There can be two options here: staying with your current provider, or switching to a new provider.

• If you’re staying with the same provider, then all you need to do is call the provider and let them know you’ve moved. The provider will then arrange for a new installation in your home.
• If you’re switching providers, then you should do some research to determine which provider is the best fit for your needs. Look for providers that offer competitive prices, good customer service, and plenty of channel options. It’s also a good idea to read reviews from other users to get a better idea of how the provider performs. Once you’ve chosen a provider, call them up and set up the installation. The provider will then arrange for a technician to come to your house and get everything set up.

2. Scheduling an Installation Date & Time

There can be two scenarios when it comes to scheduling an installation date and time with your cable provider.

• If you’re an existing customer, the provider will typically arrange for the installation on the day you call them.
• If you’re a new customer, then the provider may offer two or three dates and times when you can schedule the installation. This usually depends on how busy the provider’s service technicians are, and if they’re available in your area at the time.

It’s a good idea to choose a date and time that is convenient for you. Make sure you’re available at the time of installation, as the technician will need your help with setting up the cable box.

3. Preparing for Installation

When it comes to Installation there are two options: self-installation or professional installation.

• If you opt to do a professional installation, then all you need to do is make sure the cable technician has direct access to your TV when they arrive.
• If you choose to do a self-installation, then you’ll need to do some preparation beforehand. Make sure you have the necessary tools and materials for installation. Later in this post, we will discuss the step-by-step guide for self-installation.

Once you have everything ready, turn off the power to your TV and unplug any cords that are connected to it. Finally, make sure there’s a clear path for the technician to reach your TV and that all furniture is moved out of the way.

Now that the preparations are complete, it’s time for the installation process.

Installing Cable TV By A Professional

If you’re new to cable TV, you may want to consider calling in a professional technician to set up your service. Professional installers are trained to properly set up your cable service and can provide helpful advice if you have any questions or concerns. Professional installation usually costs extra, but if you’re not comfortable with DIY installation, it may be worth the extra money.

When calling in a professional to set up your cable service, they will usually come to your home and perform an initial assessment. This assessment involves checking your TV setup, making sure you have the right cable box, and ensuring all cables are properly connected. The technician may also need to install a coaxial cable from the outer wall to your TV.

Once the assessment is complete, they will then configure the settings on your cable box and test the connection to make sure it’s working properly.

Do-It-Yourself Installation

If you’re comfortable with DIY installation, then you can opt to do it yourself. Before you start, make sure to have the right type of cable and cable connectors. HDMI cables provide the best picture quality while coaxial cables are the quickest to set up. If your TV is a bit older, you may need an S-Video or composite video cable.

Once all the necessary materials are in place, it’s time for the installation process. This comprises three steps: connecting the cables, configuring the settings on your cable box, and testing out your connection. We will now discuss these steps in detail.

1. Connecting The Cables

There can be four types of connections involved when setting up a cable box, depending on what type of cables you have:

1. Cable-to-HDMI installation
2. Cable-to-cable installation
3. Cable-to-S-Video installation
4. Cable-to-composite video installation

We’ll now take a look at each one of them:

Cable-to-HDMI installation:

This type of installation involves connecting one end of an HDMI cable to the back of your cable box, and the other end to your HDTV. To do this, simply follow the underlined steps:

1. Securely attach the cable cord from the wall outlet to your cable box’s Input port for an easy connection.
2. Plug one end of the HDMI cable into one of your TV’s back-panel or side-panel HDMI ports. It doesn’t matter which port you use, as they are all identical.
3. Plug the other end of the HDMI cable into the HDMI port on the back panel of your cable box.
4. Turn on your TV and cable box, and wait until the signal is detected. In most cases, your TV should display a picture.

Cable-to-cable installation:

This type of installation involves connecting one end of a coaxial cable to the back of your cable box and the other end to your TV. To do this, simply follow the underlined steps:

1. Securely attach the cable cord from the wall outlet to your cable box’s Input port.
2. Plug one end of the coaxial cable into the “RF IN” (or “cable in”) port located on the back of your cable box.
3. Connect the other end of the coaxial cable to your TV’s “ANT IN” port. The “ANT IN” port is typically located on the side or back of your TV.
4. Screw the coaxial cable onto both ports for a secure connection.
5. Turn on your TV and cable box, and wait until the signal is detected. In most cases, your TV should display a picture.

Cable-to-S-Video installation:

This type of installation involves connecting one end of an S-Video cable to the back of your cable box and the other end to your TV. To do this, simply follow the underlined steps:

1. Check that your cable box and TV have S-Video ports. This type of connection is rare on newer TVs, but some TVs have S-Video ports that are hidden from view.
2. Connect the 4-pin male end of an S-Video cable to the S-Video output on the cable box.
3. Plug the other end of the S-Video cable into the corresponding input on the back of the TV.
4. Turn on both the cable box and the TV, then choose the corresponding S-Video input on the TV.
5. You should now be able to view your cable signal in standard definition on your TV via the S-Video port. The picture quality won’t be as good as that of an HDMI connection, but it should still be watchable if your TV does not have an HDMI port.
6. If your cable box does not have an S-Video output, you may need to purchase an adapter to connect the cable box’s output (such as coaxial) to an S-Video connector, which would then be plugged into your TV.

By following these steps, you should be able to view your cable signal in standard definition on your TV using an S-Video cable or adapter. Keep in mind that the picture quality won’t be as good as with an HDMI connection, but it’s still watchable. Good luck!

Cable-to-composite video installation:

This type of installation involves connecting one end of a composite video cable to the back of your cable box, and the other end to your TV. To do this, simply follow the underlined steps:

1. Check that your cable box and TV have composite video ports.
2. Connect the 3-pin male end of a composite video cable to the “Video Out” port labeled “RCA” on the back of your cable box.
3. Plug the other end of the composite video cable into the “Video In” port labeled “RCA” on the back of your TV.
4. Turn on both the cable box and the TV, then choose the corresponding video input on the TV.
5. If your cable box does not have a composite video output, you may need to purchase an adapter to connect the cable box’s output (such as coaxial) to a composite video connector, which would then be plugged into your TV.

If you are still unable to view the cable signal after connecting your composite video cable or adapter, consult your TV or cable box user manual for troubleshooting assistance. Additionally, you may need to contact your cable provider’s customer service department to confirm that your cable box is functioning correctly.

If you are connecting a composite video cable from your satellite receiver to your TV, you may need to program the remote control for the TV in order to change the channels on the receiver. Consult your satellite provider’s user manual for more information.

Now that you know how to connect the cables let’s move on to the next step of setting up the box.

2. Setting up the box

Once you’ve connected your cables, it’s time to set up your box. To do this, follow the underlined steps:

Turn on your TV, and then select “Settings” from the main menu.

Choose “Cable” from the list of options, and then select your cable box from the list that appears.

Select “Auto-Tune” to automatically search for available cable channels.

If you are unable to find the “Auto-Tune” option, look for a “Channel Scan” option instead.

Once the scan is complete, your cable box will be ready to use.

3. Testing the connection

Once your cable box is set up, you’ll want to test the connection. To do this, follow the underlined steps:

1. On your TV’s remote, press the “Input” button to cycle through the available inputs until you find the one connected to your cable box.
2. Once you’ve selected the right input, try switching between a few different channels to ensure that everything is working properly.
3. If the channels change successfully, then your connection is working properly. If not, consult your TV or cable box user manual for troubleshooting assistance.

By following these steps, you should be able to successfully connect your cable box to your TV and view the signal in standard definition. If you’re looking for a higher-quality picture, then we recommend using an HDMI connection instead.

Tips For Choosing A Cable Box:

When buying a cable box, take the following into consideration:

• Does your TV support HD or 4K resolution? If so, then you’ll need an HD or 4K-capable cable box.
• What type of ports does your TV have? If your TV has an HDMI port, then you can use it to connect your box.
• How much storage space do you need? Some cable boxes come with built-in DVR capabilities, allowing you to record and store your favorite shows.
• What type of features do you need? If you’re looking for video-on-demand or interactive programming, then make sure the box you choose has those features.

By following these guidelines, you can choose the right cable box to meet your needs and budget.

Tips For Choosing the Best Cable Provider:

When choosing a cable provider, it’s important to take the following into consideration:

• What type of service do they offer? Make sure the provider offers the services you need, such as HD or 4K programming.
• What’s their coverage area? Make sure the provider covers your area.
• What type of customer support do they offer? The provider should offer helpful troubleshooting assistance if you experience any problems with your service.
• Do they offer an introductory rate or bundle package? Sometimes providers offer discounted rates for new customers or bundle packages that include additional services.

By considering the above factors, you can find a cable provider that meets your needs and budget.

Satellite TV vs. Cable TV: Which Is Right For You?

When it comes to choosing between satellite TV and cable TV, there are a few key factors to consider.

Channels

Satellite TV typically offers more channels and packages than cable TV, as well as a wider variety of programming options across different genres. Cable TV often has better picture and sound quality than satellite, although the difference is becoming less noticeable as technology advances. Cable TV also offers more local channels, which can be a plus for news and sports fans.

Cost

In terms of cost, satellite TV can be more expensive than cable TV in some cases, especially when you factor in the cost of equipment and installation. Cable TV, on the other hand, usually requires no additional equipment beyond a set-top box and does not require installation. However, monthly costs for cable TV tend to be higher than those of satellite TV.

Convenience

In terms of convenience, satellite TV can be more difficult to set up and maintain than cable TV, as it requires special equipment and a connection to an external satellite dish. Cable TV, on the other hand, requires only a standard set-top box and can be easily installed without the need of a professional.

The Bottom Line

Overall, satellite TV and cable TV both offer advantages and drawbacks, so it is important to carefully consider which option is better suited for your needs. Depending on the channels you watch and your budget, either option could be the right choice for you. Ultimately, it’s important to do your research and weigh all of the factors before making a decision.

Take some time to explore both satellite and cable TV options before you make a commitment – the right choice for you will depend on what you’re looking for in a TV service.

Either way, you can rest assured that both satellite and cable TV offer reliable entertainment options and you’ll be able to find something that suits your needs.

How Much Does Cable TV Cost?

Cable TV costs vary depending on the provider and package you choose. Generally, cable TV plans range from $44.99 to $134.99 per month, with starter packages at the lower end of the price range and premium packages at the higher end.

• Starter cable plans usually offer local channels plus ESPN, Disney Channel, and HGTV.
• With mid-level plans, you get access to more channels like NFL Network, ESPN News, and OWN.
• If you opt for a premium plan, you may get channels like HBO, CINEMAX®, SHOWTIME®, and STARZ®.

When choosing a cable provider, it’s important to take into account cost, coverage area, customer support options, and the type of service they offer.

Sometimes providers offer discounted rates for new customers or bundle packages that include additional services. If you spring for a premium plan, you’ll get access to more specialized channels and a wide variety of programming options.

By considering the above factors, you can find a cable provider that meets your needs and budget.

Best Cable TV Providers in the US

When it comes to choosing a cable TV provider, there are several options to choose from. Here are some of the most popular providers in the US:

• Cox
• DIRECT TV
• DISH
• RCN
• Spectrum
• Xfinity
• Verizon Fos

Each of these providers offers different packages, so it’s important to research their offerings to find the one that best suits your needs. 

Here is a list of the best TV providers with their package costs:

TV Provider	Starter prices	Mid-level prices	Premium prices
Cox	NA	$69.99/mo.	NA
DIRECTV	$59.99–$64.99/mo.	$69.99–$79.99/mo.	$84.99–$134.99/mo.
DISH	$59.99–$74.99/mo.	$84.99/mo.	$94.99/mo.
RCN	NA	$59.99–$82.12/mo.	NA
Spectrum	$44.99/mo.	$69.99/mo.	$89.99/mo.
Xfinity	$50.00/mo.	$80.00/mo.	NA
Verizon Fios	$50.00/mo.	$70.00/mo.	$90.00/mo.

FAQs about Installation of Cable Connection

Wrapping Up

Getting cable TV installed in your new home can be a great way to enjoy access to a wide range of programming options. In this guide, we have covered the installation process, the costs associated with cable TV, and some of the best providers in the US. Now that you know how to install cable in your new home, you can get the entertainment experience you deserve.

Happy watching!