How to Set Up Plex DVR and an Attic Antenna

Setting up a Plex DVR with an attic antenna can give you access to over-the-air (OTA) channels, allowing you to watch and record live TV without a cable subscription. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the process step-by-step, from checking available channels in your area to completing the Plex DVR setup. I currently have an attic antenna and receive over 70 channels, so this setup works well!

Step 1: Check Available Channels in Your Area

Before you set up your antenna, check which channels are available in your area and where the broadcasting towers are located. Channel Master provides a great tool for this:

• TV Antenna Map by Zip Code

Enter your US zip code to get a map showing the locations and directions of nearby TV transmitters. This will help you point your antenna in the right direction for optimal reception

Step 2: Required Equipment

Here’s a list of items I use, and they’ve worked great:

Antennas Direct ClearStream 4V Indoor/Outdoor TV Antenna - Amazon

This antenna is installed in my attic, and it picks up a wide range of channels.

Channel Master CM-7779HD PreAmp 1 TV Antenna Amplifier with 5G LTE Filter - Amazon

The preamplifier filters out noise and interference, and it’s powered via the coaxial cable, so you don’t need an outlet in the attic.

RG6 Coaxial Cable 50ft - Amazon

I opted for 50 feet, but you can choose a length that suits your setup.

RG6 Coaxial 3-pack (3ft each) - Amazon

These shorter cables are useful for internal connections.

SiliconDust HDHomeRun Flex 4K ATSC 3.0 NextGen - Amazon

This device takes the antenna signal and converts it into a stream that Plex can use. The Flex 4K version has four tuners, allowing you to record up to four programs simultaneously.

Step 3: Installation Steps

Step 1: Install the Antenna

• Mount the antenna in your attic or outside. Choose a location with minimal obstructions in the direction of the broadcast towers.

Step 2: Point the Antenna

• Use the TV Antenna Map to determine the direction of the towers and point the antenna accordingly.

Step 3: Connect the Channel Master PreAmp

• Mount the Channel Master near the antenna.
• Connect the coaxial cable from the antenna to the Channel Master.

Step 4: Connect to the HDHomeRun and Power Inserter

• Run a coaxial cable from the Channel Master to the power inserter, which should be located inside your home near the HDHomeRun device.
• Connect another coaxial cable from the power inserter to the HDHomeRun.
• Plug in and power up the HDHomeRun. Avoid placing the HDHomeRun in the attic, as high temperatures can damage the device.

Step 4: Set Up Plex DVR

1. Open Plex Web App
   • Navigate to Settings > Live TV & DVR in the Plex Web App.
2. Start the DVR Setup
   • Click the DVR Setup button to launch the setup wizard.
   • Plex will automatically scan your network for compatible devices. If the HDHomeRun isn’t detected automatically, you can manually specify its location.
3. Channel Scanning and Lineup Matching
   • Once detected, the wizard will scan for available channels.
   • Plex will attempt to match the scanned channels with the correct program guide lineup.
   • Review the mapped channels and adjust them if needed. You can uncheck channels you don’t want or remap incorrect matches.
4. Complete the Setup
   • Once you’ve configured the lineup, select Continue to download the electronic program guide (EPG) data.
   • If Plex finds additional tuners, you will have the option to configure them as well.

For detailed instructions on managing live TV and DVR settings, refer to Plex’s official guide: Live TV & DVR Setup and Management.

Final Tips

• Tuner Placement: Keep the HDHomeRun in a cool, indoor location.
• Program Guide Accuracy: Occasionally check for updates or rescan channels if you notice any discrepancies.

With this setup, you’ll be able to enjoy live TV and schedule recordings through Plex seamlessly. Happy viewing!