It is an interesting task to mount a SATTV INTERNET since one has to ensure that the dish is oriented in the right manner in order to receive the best signals from the communication satellites that are in orbit around the earth. If you previously had your satellite dish working perfectly fine, you might find that over some time, the dish is slightly out of alignment because of the weather, debris, animals, or anything else. If you find your satellite TV channels freezing, pixelating or no longer clear then your dish needs to be adjusted to bring it back into alignment for the best signal. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to adjust your satellite dish:
Equipment Needed
- Satellite dish with LNB (low noise block down converter)
- Instrument used for removing and for putting on bolts.
- Signal strength meter or satellite finder
- Unobstructed view of the region in the southern sky (for most of the North American continent).
Discover Your Satellite’s Orbit
The first of these is identifying the specific communications satellite that your dish requires pointing towards. This orbital position will be stated somewhere on your satellite receiver or in the contract with your provider. Some standard orbits are 61. 5°, 72. 7°, 77°, and 119° west of the equator. You will then want to find out the exact satellite that the signal is for and its position in the sky.
Loosen the Dish Mount
Make sure that the arm mounts and pole on which your satellite dish is installed are tightened just enough so that the dish can pivot but not enough to fall off by using a wrench to slightly loosen them. It should be easy to maneuver the dish manually or with the help of utensils like a spatula. Do not try to separate it entirely – that is impossible.
Face the Dish South
If you are in the northern hemisphere, then point the dish towards true south or if you are in the southern hemisphere then point the dish towards true north. You can find the cardinal directions using a compass or a satellite finder application on your smartphone. This rough positioning will get it facing the satellites over the equator.
Adjust the Elevation
Turning the elevation angle changes the dish to point up or down in the horizon. You want to align it so that the plane of the dish is parallel to the altitude of the satellite location. Check the satellite specifications to find out the position of the satellite relative to the ground at which it has to be aimed. Turn the dish up or down manually to adjust this angle.
Tweak the Azimuth
The azimuth adjustment rotates the dish North or South to point east or west respectively. After having put the dish at the correct height, what remains is to turn the dish to the right magnetic azimuth as indicated by the longitude. This fine tune pointing will directly point towards the satellite.
Check the Signal Strength
After each round of adjustments, you should look at the signal strength indicator on your satellite receiver, or use a signal meter on the LNb arm. The strength should increase the closer your alignments get. Maximum signals range from about 60 to 90 in ideal environment.
Make Precise Adjustments
If required fine-tune the azimuth, elevation, or polar mount by a small value so as to get the maximum signal strength. You may need to switch back and forth between the directions to fine-tune the position of the satellite for the maximum signal reception. Do not tighten the bolts too much until you reach the right angle that you desire.
Tighten the Mounts
When you have attained the maximum signal strength through your changes, the dish is properly positioned! Lastly, you should tighten all the mounts and pole clamps firmly using your wrench. This will help to avoid the detachment of the calibrated alignments over time. Pour the cement if the pole is to be grounded and allow it to set.
Test TV Reception
Go back inside and turn your satellite TV, see if the picture quality and reception has improved with the dish realigned. You should observe improved reliability and better quality of standard and high definition TV programs with less instances of freezing or buffering. Watch out your favorite Television shows or movies through your newly enhanced satellite link!
In the long run, ensure bolts are tightened if the dish shifts due to weather or any other interference. Use these adjustment steps every time signal problems resurface to ensure your satellite dish remains optimally functioning. Once azimuth, elevations, and position have been set correctly to point to the satellite, your dish can go on receiving signals that are conveyed from space.
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