If you live in a rural area, or want to enjoy being able to choose between several hundred channels, buying and installing a satellite TV antenna may be of some help. Needless to say, if you are tired of expensive cable service packages, then satellite installation should be at the top of your list of alternatives. At the very least, you will be able to enjoy the kinds of crystal clear receptions that almost never occur with a conventional antenna.
Selecting the Best Dish for Your Area
Many people that shop for a satellite dish tend to think the parabolic portion is very important. Interestingly enough, almost all of the reception work is carried out by projections (Low Noise Block down converter or LNB) that sit in front of the dish. Typically, each LNB can only be tuned to one satellite. Therefore, you will need to find a dish that will accommodate enough LNB’s to pick up channels that you are interested in. Alternatively, you may want to purchase separate dishes in order to make it easier to home in on each satellite.
Choosing the Best Installation Site
To begin, you will need to aim the satellite in the general direction where TV satellites are known to orbit. Since most of them are stationed above the equator, people to the north will need to aim the antenna to the south. As may be expected, if you live in an area south of the equator, then you will need to turn the antenna in the opposite direction.
Even though you can attach a satellite antenna to your window frame or roof, these locations can make it difficult to remove snow or debris. On the other hand, if you install the satellite on a post, you will be able to reach it with a minimal amount of difficulty. Regardless of the location, you should make sure that the antenna is is not obstructed by trees, wires, or other objects in an east-west orbital direction. You will also need to take azimuth readings in order to determine where the satellite is orbiting, and then align your antenna to match that angle.
Installing the Satellite Dish
It is extremely important to make sure that the antenna will not move or vibrate. For example, if trucks passing by cause your windows to shake, then that location will yield poor receptions. Ideally, you should test out each potential area carefully, and then make sure that the antenna is securely fastened to a post or other object. Once you have the antenna aligned, you will need to connect coax wiring from the antenna to your TV, as well as provide power to the antenna. Since each antenna kit has different specifications, it is best to study the installation manual for exact details.
Today, many people purchase satellite reception packages that include installation. If you find that satellite installation costs are prohibitive, you may want to install the antenna on your own. In most cases, you will be successful in this endeavor if you focus on choosing the right location, and then making sure that the antenna is aligned properly in relation to the orbiting satellite.