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A Satellite Dish Installation Guide

August 5, 2022 | Comments Off on A Satellite Dish Installation Guide

A satellite dish’s primary function is to transform microwave impulses into electric signals that electronics like computers and televisions can use. Larger dishes can pick up low-frequency signals, while smaller dishes are utilized for high-frequency communications. So, if you’re looking for a guide on dish installation Louisville KY, you’ve come to the right place. This article will show you how to install a satellite dish and adjust its feed angle and elevation. 

 

Installation 

A satellite dish is an antenna for receiving satellite television signals. The satellite must be mounted at a distance of four to six feet from the house and facing the southern sky. It may need to be adjusted for vertical and horizontal alignment. Installing a satellite dish requires some basic knowledge. You can buy a tracking website to ensure the satellite dish is pointing to the right location. A compass may help you determine the direction of the southern sky. You can mount the dish on your roof or a side wall, or you can mount it on a vertical pole. Whatever you choose, ensure a clear line of sight facing south and that the area is free from trees, buildings, or other obstructions. Once the dish is installed, you must run a cable from it to your television and receiver.

You can choose a location where the satellite dish can receive the most signal depending on your preference. The distance from your home to the satellite dish will affect its signal. Ensure there is no vegetation or other obstructions, as these can affect the signal. If you plan to install your satellite dish permanently, check that it is on an unobstructed surface, which will be best for the dish’s longevity.

 

Adjusting Feed Angle

Getting a clear signal from a satellite dish can be a challenge, but it’s possible to improve your signals by adjusting the feed angle of your satellite dish. First, turn your dish’s mount east and west until you see satellites on opposite sides of the arc. You can also use an inclinometer to determine the angle of your feed horn and dish. Then, if you can’t find a satellite, you can use the inclinometer to find the angle you need.

If the feed horn is not centered, it’s likely the problem. To determine where it needs to be positioned, measure it from three points on the dish’s edge and at its center. You may need to bend it back into the dish’s center if it’s not level. You may also need to adjust the legs of the tripod to center the feed in the dish. Ensure your tripod has legs of the same length and angle as your dish’s horn.

 

Adjusting Elevation

A satellite dish is not always pointed to the correct location for the best reception. Sometimes, the angle must be adjusted. You can adjust the angle of your dish to improve the reception by tilting it to the east or the west. Using an inclinometer, you can measure the angle of the beam. The reading should be between 0 and 90 degrees. When tilting the dish backward by 38.3 degrees, the angle will increase.

The first step in adjusting the elevation of your satellite dish is to determine its skew point. Your dish’s skew point is where the satellite reaches its best angle. This point is marked on the back of the dish or bracket. Then, use a compass to measure the height of the dish to ensure optimal alignment. Once you know the skew value, you can set the dish to that location.

 

Adjusting the LNB

The LNB is part of the satellite dish. It receives the satellite signal and converts it to a signal that is sent to a television. During installation, you must ensure the LNB is positioned in the right direction to receive strong signals. The satellite dish may be misaligned if the LNB is not pointed south due to weather conditions. The LNB should be positioned so that the polar axis points to 12 o’clock when you stand in front of the dish. Professional installers use a spectrum analyzer when installing a satellite dish. But even technicians without a spectrum analyzer can make the adjustments. They can tweak the LNB by using the signal meter on the satellite decoder. Ensure the signal meter’s reading is acceptable before continuing.