Many people might hesitate to install a Dish Network satellite dish, but do not worry as the procedure is simple when done well. To get the satellite signal and therefore be able to keep running with your preferred TV shows, it is crucial to make sure the satellite dish you have from Dish Network is perfectly aligned. Here is a detailed instruction on aligning a Dish Network satellite dish:
Choose The Dish Location
Choosing the best location where the satellite dish is to be fixed comes first. You will therefore need an unhindered, clear view of the southern sky. This dish calls for a straight view of the equatorial geostationary orbiting Dish Network satellites. Avoid places surrounded by houses, trees, or any other constructible object that can compromise the signal. It's advised to set it on a south-facing balcony railing or roof. It may also be positioned outside the building on the wall or pole. Just make sure nothing may prevent the cameras from completely recording the scene perspective.
Assemble The Dish
Uncovering all the equipment—including the reflector, LNB arm, mounting bracket, etc.—is the last stage in the choice of the site. Then one should follow the user instructions and put the equipment together. For safety concerns, make sure all nuts and bolts are tightened firmly. This is also an excellent concept because it lets you make sure the dish is installed properly before permanently outside installation.
Calculate Satellite Heading
However, you cannot aim your dish at any satellite without first determining the actual satellite direction you should aim at. The satellite heading is just a heading of the coordinates of the satellites that you require for the reception of the signals. This heading is expressed in degrees from true north.
Alternatively, you can get your satellite heading by providing your ZIP code on Dish Network Company’s website or by contacting the company’s customer service. Record this heading exactly as even a slight deviation of 1-2 degrees can lead to the non-reception of signals.
Point The Dish
If you have the satellite heading figure for your location, you can now proceed to align the dish to the satellites that hover over the equator. Firstly align the dish roughly south by using a compass. Then turn it along the vertical axis toward the exact heading. Position the arm of the LNB at forty degrees concerning the pole. Make sure all the nuts and bolts that were used in the alignment process are tightened to avoid having the alignment change at some point.
Fine-Tune Elevation
Sometimes even when the dish is supposed to be pointing towards the satellites you have to make slight movements. This fine-tuning along the elevation (up and down) axis is necessary. When connected to a dish receiver, dish receivers have their signal strength meter to assist in this fine-tuning.
Make sure there is another person beside the receiver and you should gradually tilt the dish up or down. Try to ask them to look at the signal strength on the meter and then help you orient towards maximum strength. Tighten all bolts to the maximum when the desired height is achieved.
Adjust Azimuth
Azimuth on the other hand means the horizontal position of the dish. Next, the azimuth orientation must also be adjusted similarly, while receiving comments on the signal’s power level. Slowly turn the dish to the left or right until maximum signal strength is achieved. Then physically secure the dish in place by fixing the mounting brackets.
Check Signal Quality
Now it is time to turn on your Dish Network receiver to make sure that the satellite dish is set up correctly. The signal bars on the receiver will indicate whether the adjustment was done or not. If you are still getting a weak or intermittent signal, it should be possible to fine-tune the azimuth and elevation much more carefully. You may need someone to hold the reflector too when fine-tuning so alignment is not moved accidentally.
Troubleshooting Tips
If you are unable to lock signals even after careful alignment, follow these troubleshooting tips:
- Check the satellite heading calculation again and the compass direction
- Check that the coaxial cables are connected firmly
- If possible, use another HDMI or coaxial cable
- Ensure the LNB arm is not damaged or bent
- There should be no physical barrier between the dish and the satellite.
- All AU9 dish switches are in the correct positions
- Rescan the receiver to obtain the signals.
Install Pole Mount (Optional)
For permanent installation of the roof on the satellite, you have to fix a steel pole and concrete base then you have to fix the satellite dish on the roof. Design it to be high enough to minimize signal blockage by the roof edges. Here, physical stability is needed to endure wind and weather throughout the months of service.
Connecting The Receiver
The last step is to attach your matched dish to the satellite receiver through a coaxial cable. Attach one end of the cable to the LNB arm port and the other end to the ‘Satellite In’ port located on the rear of the receiver. Then plug your television into the receiver using HDMI or AV cables to begin watching the Dish Network programming after activation.
To properly install and align a Dish Network satellite dish, one needs to pay attention to details. However, it is worth spending time to follow these tips to ensure that you lock onto satellites for non-stop fun. Just have someone assist you with feedback regarding signal strength, as slight variations can impact it.
Ready to upgrade your TV experience? Call us now at (877) 471-4808 to find the perfect Dish Network plan for you! Don’t miss out on great entertainment—our team is here to help you choose the best package and get you started today.