If you have a DirecTV ATT aim meter that has gone bad or needs to be updated, there are several ways to update or recover the defective one. As the aiming meter is one of the pieces of equipment required for DirecTV satellite signal reception, ensuring its proper functioning is crucial. Here is a step-by-step guide that will help you along the way.
Understanding The Aim Meter
The aim meter is utilized where you are installing or moving your DirecTV satellite dish for the first time or the other way around. It calculates the intensity of the incoming satellite signal to assist in aligning the dish toward the satellite in space. The newer versions of the aim meter can also be interfaced with DirecTV apps to enable Dish Alignment and diagnose problems.
Having the aim meter set and maintained at an optimum level together with the latest firmware enhances efficiency. When the aim meter is lost or damaged, recovery or replacement of the equipment is needed.
Recovering Your Previous Aim Meter
If you earlier in the time had an aim meter and you think that you lost it, then you are in a position to get it back. Here are some tips on locating a missing meter:
- Search all closets and shelves, compartments, and drawers where tools and electronic equipment were stored. Search thoroughly for the device in the contents ensuring that it has not been mixed up with other similar devices.
- If the previous aim meter had rechargeable batteries, please look for battery supplies or storage to find out if aim meter batteries are available. This could remind you of where you left the device which will lead to its retrieval.
- Try to get hold of the technician who came to your home for the DirecTV satellite system installation. He may be able to offer you the serial number or other details about the aiming meter that was used in particular, which can contain further information that you may require as you hunt for it.
- Dial the number of DirecTV customer service to find out if the serial number of the leased aim meter is in their records. If so, it’s best to provide the number during your home search so that you can cross-check the numbers on the equipment that you encounter.
Acting as organized as possible while searching for the empty aim meter and using all the possible tools at your disposal will help to cope with the best reaction when the accessorial equipment seems to be lost.
Upgrading A Damaged Aim Meter
In case of recovery efforts failure, for a faulty or non-working aim meter, purchasing a better device is needed. DIrectV approved equipment can be acquired from several options: DIrectV-approved equipment can be acquired from several options:
Ordering Through DirecTV
The simplest replacement strategy is ordering an aim meter via DirecTV customer service. Provide the representative with the account status, the type of satellite service that you have subscribed to, and any previous equipment problems that you have experienced. This helps them to recommend the right cutting-edge meter for you that enables accurate compatibility with current system layouts and service levels.
Being an active customer, DirecTV can directly charge you for the equipment and shipping fees if any. This also logs the aim meter replacement and associates it with your account for tracking and assistance.
Buying Retail From A Store
If purchasing customer service is not convenient, big box retailers such as Best Buy and Walmart offer approved aim meters for DirecTV. Depending on the specific retail environment you are in, you may have a wider range of aim meter models to work with. The packaging of your product should always indicate compatibility with your satellite provider.
The prices of aim meters range from $30 for the basic model to about $150 for the most complex model. The price range for a decent aim meter with reliable metal construction and integrated leveling bubble parts should be in the region of $75-100. For a few more dollars, the product is most often more long-lasting, and satellite measurements are consistently accurate.
Research Third-Party Meter Device Options
However, other manufacturers produce aim meters within DirecTV’s purview that market itself as a full system solution. In general, the reception to products from Pansat and KingControls is positive. This path is slightly more dangerous but offers meter ownership if you cancel DirecTV services.
The use of DirecTV customer service is only feasible if one has an active account with the company. Since it is not allowed for them to own their equipment after the service obligation, replacement devices have to be procured elsewhere. To meet this equipment acquisition need, there are independent aim meter vendors. However, do not buy a third-party aim meter if under the contract with DirecTV as the penalties can be severe and the service performance can suffer.
Ensuring Proper Set-Up And Calibration
Once you have your new or recovered aim meter in hand, the process to confirm accuracy involves a few key steps:
Search for TrackSat3 Mobile or ContactGeo in GooglePlay or the Apple Store. Get the free Dish Alignment software installed on your phone, tablet, or chosen mobile device. The apps connect to your aim meter through Bluetooth to display the satellite signal quality for accurate azimuth, elevation, and skew.
Switch on the aim meter and link it with your mobile device according to the instructions provided in the package. Many of these aim meters are designed to self calibrate each time they are powered on. To be sure, check the device documents whether your model supports auto-CAL execution or, if not, press the ‘CAL’ hardware button to start first-use CAL.
With the aiming meter heading set to magnetic North, conduct a tonal and visual examination of passing 0 signal level peak on both satellite DBS1 (Door 1) and DBS2 (Door 2). Measure at 10 physical locations distinct from the first to compare overall swaying scales and pinpoint magnetic disturbances. It is suggested that the number of level peaks should be at least 44, with the ideal number of peaks ranging from 55 to 75 in residential facilities.
If signal levels measured are low or have high inconsistency in peak reading then there must be problems in connectivity, battery charge, compass direction coordination, and other functional components affecting the meter. Then try to recalibrate if problems continue by turning off the device and pressing CAL with every try.
By following this guide, your aim meter equipment should now be back in working order through either recovery or upgrade efforts. Maintenance contributes to the optimal functionality and durability of the metering components of your DirecTV system’s excellent performance.