Scrapped satellite dishes, which are no longer functional, can be recycled and used as effective receiving antennas for long-haul signals. This conversion process is quite simple and cost-effective to perform. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to convert a SATTV INTERNET into a functional antenna:
What You'll Need
- A used C-band or Ku-band type of satellite dish which can be of old make and about 3-5 feet wide.
- Coaxial cable with F-type connectors
- Feed horn (cost range of $10- $30 based on size and type of the antenna)
- RTV silicone sealant
- Paint scraper or sandpaper
- Paint (matte black aerosol)
- Drill with various [sic] drill bits
- Hand tools such as wrenches, screwdrivers, etc.
The first step concerned selection of a location for the proposed joint venture.
Choose a location outside your home to install the satellite dish in an area that is unobstructed in all directions up to the horizon. Do not walk near trees or buildings as this will interfere with the signals. Align its face toward the target transmission source. Southerly directions are preferred, but not obligatory.
Step 2: Preparing the surface of the dish
Scrape off any remnants of paint or previous protective layers with a paint scraper or some high grit sandpaper. Scratching the surface will enable new paint to stick properly to the surface. It is recommended that it should be cleaned with a dry cloth to remove dirt.
Step 3: Painting the Dish
Paint the satellite dish 2-3 thin, even layers of black matte spray paint throughout the entire exterior of the dish. Let each coat to dry before the next one is applied. The black paint on the curved dish surface ensures equal thermal receipt of signals, as all surfaces appear equally black.
Step 4: Mounting the Feed Horn
A feed horn is needed to actually physically capture and emit signals. The feed horn attachment will be placed here on the dish As you can see now the paint is dried on the dish. That is the place that should be designated as the optimum and make a mark with a pencil. Place a circular strip of RTV silicone sealant and place the feed horn in a manner that faces towards the dish.
Step 5: Prepare Base
Regardless of whether the base of the satellite dish is going to be mounted on poles, or if it is going to be installed on a flat surface, it is going to require some form of stability. On a very high concrete or large metal pole, the dish may only require to be bolted tightly on it. For lighter bases, you may need to set the structure on sandbags or stakes to prevent overturning.
Step 6: Aiming the Dish
To receive signals from geostationary satellites, align the dish flat in the horizontal plane to the equator by using a compass and a bubble level. It is possible to fine-tune the rotation and angle of the coils with the help of set screws and pole clamps. Accuracy is crucial when it comes to receiving signals.
Step 7: Connecting the Coaxial Cable
Attach one lose end of the coaxial cable to the LNBF arm at the end of the feed horn. Tighten it well with the cable crimpers but do not use excessive force when doing so. Route the cable cleanly away toward your receiver through an exterior wall or window. Ensure that cable runs are kept short and minimize any bends in the cable.
Step 8: Connecting the Receiver Here you will need to connect the receiver to the transmitter as detailed below: Figure 8: Connecting the receiver to the transmitter.
Screw the other end of the coaxial cable to the “ANT IN” slot on the rear of your satellite signal receptor. Your receiver should be powerful enough to match the dish size for the best reception of the signals transmitted. Synchronize and set the receiver to the said satellite/frequency.
Step 9: Increasing Signal Strength
Usual signal peak entails slight adjustments of the dish’s rotation, elevation and skew until observing the signal strength on the receiver’s meter. Screw down the adjustments to provide maximum possible rigidity. A clear picture on your receiver will confirm that your antenna is aligned well.
It may take some patience to align but with this project you can turn that old backyard eyesore into a high-gain antenna. In this way, instead of merely discarding the retired dish, we contribute to the conservation of resources and the minimization of waste. And you save money by converting junk with a few dollars for a few bucks into signal equipment with only basic tools and knowledge. Well, repurpose that old dish today then!
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