Blog posts

Meshtastic: A New Take on LoRa Antennas

Meshtastic: A New Take on LoRa Antennas

Meshtastic® is an open-source mesh network protocol for everyone.
It allows you to create your own wireless network using low-power devices and it is a great way to stay connected in remote areas or to build your own private network.

Why It's Time to Move to Fibre

Why It's Time to Move to Fibre

Fibre optic technology is revolutionising how we access and use the internet, providing a significant upgrade over traditional broadband connections. With its capacity for delivering incredibly fast download and upload speeds, fibre optic internet ensures that users can enjoy high-definition streaming, online gaming without lag, and quick file downloads with ease. 

How Blake UK's Couplers Keep You Connected

How Blake UK's Couplers Keep You Connected

Explore the vital role of Blake UK's couplers in creating strong, reliable network connections. From high-speed data transfer to enduring outdoor setups, our range ensures seamless connectivity. Discover the perfect match for your networking needs, whether for high-speed internet, demanding environments, or weather-resistant solutions. With Blake UK, elevate your digital communications to unmatched reliability and quality.

A Guide to Patch Panels and Keystone Inserts

A Guide to Patch Panels and Keystone Inserts


Choosing the right TV Bracket For You

Choosing the right TV Bracket For You

There are many different types of TV wall brackets available to mount your TV on the wall and give you the perfect viewing angle.



They come in a variety of types, each designed to accommodate different viewing needs and TV sizes.


Understanding Ethernet Over Coax

Understanding Ethernet Over Coax

Ethernet over Coax is a technology that will help upgrade your network, without running new wires.


In this post we’ll be explaining all about this technology, how it works, where it’s used and how to get started.


Aerial Installers Essential Products

Aerial Installers Essential Products

As an installer, having the essentials is ever-important. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting in the field, having the right tools can be the difference between a job well done and a frustrating, time-consuming ordeal. 


These products are not just useful; they are the backbone of effortless installations, ensuring that every task you undertake is executed with precision and efficiency.


DAB vs. FM Radio

DAB vs. FM Radio

DAB (Digital Audio Broadcasting) and FM (Frequency Modulation) are at the very forefront of radio communication and both have their merits and drawbacks. 


In this post, we’ll be comparing and contrasting the two technologies, identifying potential use cases and highlighting the benefits and drawbacks of each.


Common CCTV Problems

Common CCTV Problems

Nowadays, security is an absolute priority for businesses and homeowners alike with more and more people turning to CCTV systems for extra protection.


However, as with most technology, even the best CCTV systems can experience problems.


Here at Blake UK, we’re CCTV experts,and in this blog, we’re going to guide you through common CCTV problems and how you can overcome them.


Which ethernet cable is right for you?

Which ethernet cable is right for you?


A reliable and fast internet connection is essential. Ethernet cables serve as the lifelines of our networks, ensuring seamless data transfer and internet access. However, with various types of ethernet cables available, selecting the right one can be a daunting task. In this guide, we'll simplify the decision-making process and help you determine which is the best ethernet cable for your specific needs.

Resolving Interference with TV Signal; TETRA, 4G and 5G.

Resolving Interference with TV Signal; TETRA, 4G and 5G.


Are you having difficulties with interference? These types of issues can disrupt your TV signal, causing frustration and inconvenience. Whether it’s interference due to Wi-Fi, radio signals or mobile connectivity, understanding the causes of interference and implementing solutions is essential.




4G and 5G Aerials: How Are They Different?

4G and 5G Aerials: How Are They Different?

In a tech-driven era, wireless connectivity reigns supreme, powering everything from online transactions to seamless streaming. If you're intrigued by the contrasts between 4G and 5G aerials and how they influence your connectivity, you're in the right spot. This guide is your personalised roadmap for understanding distinctions in frequency, data capacity, speed, and reliability. By the end, you'll have the insights to confidently shape your wireless communication choices.

Understanding the different types of TV aerial

Understanding the different types of TV aerial


There are a number of different types of TV aerials available, all designed to receive signals in slightly different environments and locations and best for specific uses. 


In this post, we’ll identify some common types of TV aerials, and explain what they are and where they’re best suited.


Satellite vs Aerial: Which One Should You Choose?

Satellite vs Aerial: Which One Should You Choose?

When it comes to choosing the right TV option, the decision between satellite and aerial can significantly impact your viewing experience. With a multitude of factors to consider, it's essential to understand the difference between the two in order to get the most out of your TV. In this blog article, we’ll explore the differences between satellite and aerial TV, and provide guidance to make your decision process that much easier.

What is a wireless access point?

What is a wireless access point?

Wireless access points are unique devices that allow wireless devices to connect to a wired network - think of them as providing a bridge between wireless and wired networks to ensure you’re getting the most out of your network.

Choosing the Right CCTV Camera for Your Surveillance Needs

Choosing the Right CCTV Camera for Your Surveillance Needs

Selecting the perfect CCTV camera is crucial for ensuring you and your household have the most effective security possible. This brief guide will help you navigate and understand the key factors to consider when choosing a CCTV camera to meet your specific surveillance needs.

The Role of High-Quality Coaxial Cables

The Role of High-Quality Coaxial Cables

The importance of high-quality coaxial cables cannot be overstated when it comes to achieving the best possible picture and sound quality for your TV.


In this post, we’ll explore the importance of choosing high-performance, premium cables to ensure optimal signal transmission and reduce interference for a better viewing experience.


Boost Your Wi–Fi Signal Strength at Home: Tips and Tricks

Boost Your Wi–Fi Signal Strength at Home: Tips and Tricks

Improve the performance of your home Wi-Fi network with these expert tips and tricks for selecting the right router, optimizing its placement, and avoiding common mistakes.


It’s probably true that your home Wi-Fi is a major part of your everyday life, more so now than ever before. With homeworking becoming the new norm for a lot of people, streaming service demand expanding and the majority of services moving online, the strength of your Wi-Fi is extremely important. 

Fibre Optic Cables & How They Work

Fibre Optic Cables & How They Work

Nowadays, quick and reliable networking is more crucial than ever before and is becoming a necessity for many, whether in a working environment or at home. 


Because of this, there has been a significant increase in the popularity of fibre optic cabling thanks to its ability to achieve faster speeds, improved signal quality and a greater bandwidth capacity.


In this blog post, we’ll take a deeper look into the various benefits of fibre optic cabling, its relevant uses and how it all works.


Solving Problems With LTE

Solving Problems With LTE

In this post, we’ll explain a little bit more about 4G and 5G interference, and how it can affect your TV reception, and we’ll explore ways you can avoid this.

Ethernet Switches - 4 Reasons Why You Need Them

Ethernet Switches - 4 Reasons Why You Need Them

Ethernet switches are an essential component of any modern network, and they offer a number of benefits that make them well worth the investment. 

Here are just a few reasons why you might want to consider adding Ethernet switches to your network…


5 Ways to Get More Out Of Your HDMI Set Up

5 Ways to Get More Out Of Your HDMI Set Up

Having an entertainment set up in your home is ideal for watching TV, movies, streaming content, and playing video games. But are you getting the most out of your current HDMI setup? 

Here are five ways you can enhance your home entertainment experience, by improving and introducing various HDMI-related components.


Virgin Media Tricks You Need to Know

Virgin Media Tricks You Need to Know

Virgin's set-top box comes with a 1TB hard drive, which has enough room to store an incredible 100 hours of full HD TV. However, there is a quick trick that can help you fit more of your favourite programming onto this unit.

You can record up to 500 hours of content on the device by simply switching to standard definition when you record, which is more than 1,000 episodes of Eastenders or 300 blockbuster films.

Here are some other tips and tricks you should know… 


4 Ways to Cut your Energy Bills When Watching TV

4 Ways to Cut your Energy Bills When Watching TV

It's no secret that energy bills have become an issue for many recently. That's why we've rounded up some tips to save money on your energy bills when watching TV…


Here is what you need to know.


New Changes to Freeview and Virgin TV Channels

New Changes to Freeview and Virgin TV Channels

What are the Freeview and Virgin TV changes?

LoRa and Helium Crypto Miners

LoRa and Helium Crypto Miners

New IoT solutions enable businesses to grow dramatically as technology progresses, and private users have access to more advanced technological capabilities. Grab a pen and paper, and let's learn about some amazing technology that elevates wireless connectivity.

What Group of Aerial do you Need?

What Group of Aerial do you Need?

Safe to say, it can get confusing, that's why we are here to help…


Why You Need Rack Mount Patch Panels

Why You Need Rack Mount Patch Panels

What are Rack Mount Patch Panels used for?

5G is Here - 4 Things You Need to Know

5G is Here - 4 Things You Need to Know

5G switch over happened on the 28th June, but what happens now?

Freeview Channel Update - The Changes You Need To Know

Freeview Channel Update - The Changes You Need To Know

As of the end of June 22 changes were made to Freeview. Here is what you need to know…

5 Reasons You Need a Multi-Monitor Set-Up

5 Reasons You Need a Multi-Monitor Set-Up

Moving from a single monitor to a dual-monitor or triple-monitor setup will transform the way you use your PC, whether you're trying to expand your screen space for gaming or productivity. You may not only switch between applications without using any fiddly keyboard shortcuts, but you can even rotate screens to better suit the work at hand, depending on the monitor.

4 Things to Consider When Getting CCTV

4 Things to Consider When Getting CCTV

With crime rising 14% in recent years, a decent surveillance system can help you keep track of who comes and goes at all times. You might be considering installing a CCTV camera system to improve your home security.

Here are a few things to think about if you're thinking about purchasing CCTV cameras for your business or home.


What is the Best Streaming Stick?

What is the Best Streaming Stick?

Media streaming sticks have become part of the modern AV setup due to their ability to house all streaming Apps and be a simple one-stop show for everyone's streaming needs. 

But not all media streamers are the same. The best media streamers will provide a total and endless supply of TV shows, films, and music but there are performance differences too. Some look and sound better than others.

Whether it's Netflix, TV, Disney+, Apple, or some other service, a service dedicated it's a media streamer's job to deliver them.

With more competition in the market than ever, prices are low, standards are high and any gaps in their app offerings could be a killer weakness.

That's why we're asking the question, what is the best streaming stick? 


How Fast is 5G?

How Fast is 5G?

The hype surrounding 5G networks, the fifth generation of mobile network technology, has been building for years. All of the major 5G carriers have begun to roll out their initial "national" networks and plan to expand their reach and capabilities.

3 Ways to Make Fibre Internet Even Faster

3 Ways to Make Fibre Internet Even Faster

In a Wi-Fi world, slow internet speeds are simply not an option. From streaming TV to online gameplay, having too much bandwidth is never a bad thing. But what options do you have if your supposed ‘fast internet’ isn't up to speed?

What Resolution Do I Need for My Security Camera?

What Resolution Do I Need for My Security Camera?

A security camera is a sensible investment when it comes to your commercial or residential property. However, it is useless if your resolution isn't up to scratch. The resolution of your camera has many benefits and improves the overall quality of the images it picks up. But what is the best resolution for your security camera?

Let's find out…


Do I Need Network Cabling In My House?

Do I Need Network Cabling In My House?

In the 21st century, we can't afford to have sluggish internet connections. From streaming and downloading content to Zoom calls and working from home, we need our many devices to be running as fast as possible, at all times. 


Whilst we live in a wireless world, installing a data cable is still a popular decision among property developers. This is because it is seen as an investment, as 52% of families are put off living in or buying a house that has WiFi black spots. 


With this being the case, the question is, do you need network cabling in your house? 


3 Ways to Stop TV Streaming Buffering

3 Ways to Stop TV Streaming Buffering

Smart TVs and video streaming have transformed the way we consume television forever. 

With video on demand and new TVs, we are able to control what we watch and when we watch it, however, that's not the case if you are suffering buffering issues. 


3 Cheap Ways to Transform Wi-Fi in Your Home

3 Cheap Ways to Transform Wi-Fi in Your Home

Wi-Fi is the engine at the center of most modern homes. Yet it can be unpredictable sorcery when things don't go to plan. From using AI home assistants, streaming music and movies to working from home, reliable Wi-Fi is a necessity. 


So how can you improve your home set-up without breaking the bank? 


Seam Welded Vs Extruded Aerial Masts: Which One Do You Need?

Seam Welded Vs Extruded Aerial Masts:  Which One Do You Need?

Weather conditions can really disrupt your home. Not only that, but harsh conditions can damage your property, such as installed bases of aerials and reception equipment. With global warming showing no signs of slowing down, we are here to help you prepare for the worst, with the highest quality products. 


Here is the breakdown of the two types of masting available in aluminium to you. 

The Top 3 CCTV Trends for 2022

The Top 3 CCTV Trends for 2022

With the new year comes new technological innovations. With the estimated cost of robberies and burglaries up to £2bn there has never been a better time to utilise top-end security technology for your home. 

Here are the 3 main trends for CCTV this year… 

3 Ways to Create the Ultimate Home Office in 2022

3 Ways to Create the Ultimate Home Office in 2022

With the UK returning to home working where possible, and the world adapting the home office as the new normal, it's crucial to have an ergonomic set up in 2022. 

If you, like many others, have ditched the commute in favour of the stroll to the spare room, you might be looking to level up your home set-up. That's where we can help, with 3 ways to create the ultimate home office…

Three Ways to Create the Perfect Home Set Up for Christmas

Three Ways to Create the Perfect Home Set Up for Christmas

With the festive season upon us, ensuring your home is equipped to entertain is paramount. Whilst this can be an ambitious project, it doesn't have to be overly complicated to achieve the best results. 

Do you need a Hard Drive for CCTV?

Do you need a Hard Drive for CCTV?

Getting your home equipped with CCTV is always a safe idea. The College of Policing's Crime Reduction suggests that CCTV prevents 16% of crimes and 26% of all vehicle crimes. 

 

Hard drives are an integral part of a CCTV system, but do you need one? 


What is a WLAN and Why Do I Need One?

What is a WLAN and Why Do I Need One?

Whether it's home working, a business or an organisation, signal distribution is crucial.  Removing weak signal Access points in order to allow seamless wireless roaming is necessary in modern life. But how is it achieved? 



This is where a WLAN Controller becomes invaluable.


How to get the Perfect Freeview TV Signal

How to get the Perfect Freeview TV Signal


A
chieving the ultimate home set-up is no mean feat, and picture issues only make things harder. Pixalations, patchy reception and missing channels can be temporary problems if you have the right remedy. 


Setting the perfect signal for your Freeview box is the key element to avoid signal disruption. Here is everything you need to know in order to achieve the perfect Freeview signal. 

Are Fibre Optic Cables worth it?

Are Fibre Optic Cables worth it?

Fibre optic internet cable is increasingly popular. This is thanks to the higher speeds and bandwidth it can provide compared to standard ethernet or Wi-Fi signals delivered via coaxial or even copper wire from street-level exchanges.  

Each of the strands is a little wider than an average hair and is normally surrounded by a further layer of cladding which is also in plastic or glass but constructed at a different density to the main inner strand.

Whilst it's becoming more and more common, is it worth it? 


How to Set Up Surround Sound with HDMI

How to Set Up Surround Sound with HDMI

If you're building a dream home theatre setup, you're aiming for the closest cinema experience possible. From the vibrating sub-bass to the tension building high frequencies, it's crucial that your sound system is creating the best experience possible. 

 

This is where HDMI comes into it. There are plenty of available options to create the full home theatre experience, but where do you start when it comes to HDMI? 


3 Ways to Improve Your TV Signal Today

3 Ways to Improve Your TV Signal Today

Do you have a TV that's not getting the signal it needs?

If your TV is having trouble picking up a strong signal, there are three things you can do to improve it today.


Image Resizing: Upscaling & Downscaling

Image Resizing: Upscaling & Downscaling

Images are not just stored in one resolution, but rather they exist at a variety of resolutions. When images go out of the native range for your monitor or TV set, it is necessary to upscale and downscale them.

Do You Need CCTV in 5MP?

Do You Need CCTV in 5MP?

If you’re looking for the right CCTV to protect your home, it's not always simple. Different models, dimensions and specifications can muddy the waters. The most important element of your CCTV setup is the image quality, and that's where 5-megapixel (5MP) cameras come in. 

3 Reasons You Need to Upgrade your HDMI Cables

3 Reasons You Need to Upgrade your HDMI Cables

Upgrading to a 4k television is a great way to improve your viewing experience. However, if you haven't replaced your HDMI cables for a while, you may be missing out on some of the great features. 


This can also be the case if you have in-wall HDMI installations or long cable runs, but here are the 3 reasons why you should upgrade your HDMI cables...


5 Tips to Get the Strongest Wi-Fi Signal

5 Tips to Get the Strongest Wi-Fi Signal

If we didn't appreciate it before, the past year has highlighted how integral a wireless router is to our homes, work and social life. We all require a clear internet signal from our routers, yet this isn't always the case.

5 Things You Need to Know About TV Wall Mounts

5 Things You Need to Know About TV Wall Mounts

Tv wall mounts can add a lot to a home. They free up floor space and improve your viewing experience. But knowing where to start can be difficult, so we have compiled the top 5 things you need to know…

4 Reasons you Need Home CCTV

4 Reasons you Need Home CCTV

Everybody wants to keep their home safe and secure, but sadly the estimated cost of robberies and burglaries are £2bn. That makes up over 40% of the costs of crime. However, thanks to advancements in home security systems, it has never been easier to upgrade your home and protect your family.

How to Create the Best Home Setup for the Euros 2021

How to Create the Best Home Setup for the Euros 2021

Back in 1966, England's World Cup victory was viewed on small black and white, rented TVs with volume dials. Safe to say our viewing experience has changed a bit over time.
 
With the 2021 Euros around the corner and cinematic sound systems, UHD screens and offering countless setup possibilities, we are here to help you create the ultimate home viewing experience.

3 Ways to Fix a Picture Break on your TV

3 Ways to Fix a Picture Break on your TV

When you’re sitting down for the big game, the season finale, or your favourite film, the last thing you want is for your screen to freeze or pixelate. From poor signals to cabling issues, solving the problem isn’t always easy.


That’s why we are here to help, with the 3 most common ways you can fix a picture brake on your TV.

How to Solve the Sound Issues with your TV

How to Solve the Sound Issues with your TV

Sound issues with your TV are no fun. The frantic smashing of the volume buttons up and down, the triple checking of the mute button, the cursing at the audio gods for smiting you... We feel your pain.

But not to worry, we have everything you need to know regarding how to solve the sound issues with your TV.

Happy Birthday to Blake UK!

Happy Birthday to Blake UK!

Happy Birthday to Blake UK! We’ve been keeping customers connected to information and entertainment for 50 years.

We’re a family business, so birthdays are important to us, but this one is a bit special. We're celebrating our half century: Blake has been supplying equipment into the industry since 1971. As one of our loyal customers, we’d like to thank you for your support. We literally couldn’t have done it without you.

New Site Designed for you

New Site Designed for you

For the last few months, we have been busy listening to your feedback and developing a new, vastly improved website.

Latest posts

Meshtastic: A New Take on LoRa Antennas
Blake UK 29/02/2024
Why It's Time to Move to Fibre
Blake UK 23/02/2024
How Blake UK's Couplers Keep You Connected
Liv Naden 14/02/2024
A Guide to Patch Panels and Keystone Inserts
Liv Naden 26/01/2024
Choosing the right TV Bracket For You
Ben Walker 19/12/2023
Understanding Ethernet Over Coax
Ben Walker 29/11/2023
Aerial Installers Essential Products
Blake UK 13/11/2023
DAB vs. FM Radio
Ben Walker 31/10/2023
Common CCTV Problems
Ben Walker 19/10/2023
Which ethernet cable is right for you?
Ben Walker 17/10/2023
Resolving Interference with TV Signal; TETRA, 4G and 5G.
Blake UK 27/09/2023
4G and 5G Aerials: How Are They Different?
Ben Walker 18/09/2023
Understanding the different types of TV aerial
Ben Walker 22/08/2023
Satellite vs Aerial: Which One Should You Choose?
Ben Walker 21/08/2023
What is a wireless access point?
Ben Walker 18/08/2023
Choosing the Right CCTV Camera for Your Surveillance Needs
Ben Walker 15/08/2023
The Role of High-Quality Coaxial Cables
Ben Walker 08/06/2023
Boost Your Wi–Fi Signal Strength at Home: Tips and Tricks
Ben Walker 25/05/2023
Fibre Optic Cables & How They Work
Ben Walker 23/05/2023
Solving Problems With LTE
Ben Walker 28/02/2023
Ethernet Switches - 4 Reasons Why You Need Them
Ben Walker 20/02/2023
5 Ways to Get More Out Of Your HDMI Set Up
Ben Walker 09/02/2023
Virgin Media Tricks You Need to Know
Blake UK 08/11/2022
4 Ways to Cut your Energy Bills When Watching TV
Blake UK 07/11/2022
New Changes to Freeview and Virgin TV Channels
Blake UK 21/10/2022
LoRa and Helium Crypto Miners
Blake UK 20/10/2022
What Group of Aerial do you Need?
Blake UK 18/10/2022
Why You Need Rack Mount Patch Panels
Blake UK 18/10/2022
5G is Here - 4 Things You Need to Know
Blake UK 27/07/2022
Freeview Channel Update - The Changes You Need To Know
Blake UK 27/07/2022
5 Reasons You Need a Multi-Monitor Set-Up
Blake UK 16/06/2022
4 Things to Consider When Getting CCTV
Blake UK 14/06/2022
What is the Best Streaming Stick?
Blake UK 13/06/2022
How Fast is 5G?
Blake UK 10/06/2022
3 Ways to Make Fibre Internet Even Faster
Blake UK 08/06/2022
What Resolution Do I Need for My Security Camera?
Blake UK 07/06/2022
Do I Need Network Cabling In My House?
Blake UK 18/03/2022
3 Ways to Stop TV Streaming Buffering
Blake UK 17/03/2022
3 Cheap Ways to Transform Wi-Fi in Your Home
Blake UK 15/02/2022
Seam Welded Vs Extruded Aerial Masts: Which One Do You Need?
Blake UK 14/02/2022
The Top 3 CCTV Trends for 2022
Blake UK 14/01/2022
3 Ways to Create the Ultimate Home Office in 2022
Blake UK 13/01/2022
Three Ways to Create the Perfect Home Set Up for Christmas
Blake UK 13/12/2021
Do you need a Hard Drive for CCTV?
Blake UK 08/12/2021
What is a WLAN and Why Do I Need One?
Blake UK 16/11/2021
How to get the Perfect Freeview TV Signal
Blake UK 15/11/2021
Are Fibre Optic Cables worth it?
Blake UK 28/10/2021
How to Set Up Surround Sound with HDMI
Blake UK 18/10/2021
3 Ways to Improve Your TV Signal Today
Blake UK 12/10/2021
Image Resizing: Upscaling & Downscaling
Blake UK 12/10/2021
Do You Need CCTV in 5MP?
BLAKE UK 30/08/2021
3 Reasons You Need to Upgrade your HDMI Cables
BLAKE UK 25/08/2021
5 Tips to Get the Strongest Wi-Fi Signal
Blake UK 23/06/2021
5 Things You Need to Know About TV Wall Mounts
Blake UK 21/06/2021
4 Reasons you Need Home CCTV
Blake UK 07/06/2021
How to Create the Best Home Setup for the Euros 2021
Blake UK 04/06/2021
3 Ways to Fix a Picture Break on your TV
Blake UK 10/05/2021
How to Solve the Sound Issues with your TV
Blake UK 10/05/2021
Happy Birthday to Blake UK!
Blake UK 01/04/2021
New Site Designed for you
Blake UK 15/12/2020