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Archive for the ‘FTA Receivers’ Category

Choosing a Satellite Finder

Tuesday, July 21, 2009@ 12:28 PM
Author: Jlewis

free to air

Satellite finders are signal meters that are used to accurately point satellite dishes in order to pick up the best signal. Spectrum displays make it easy to quickly troubleshoot satellite installations. Lists are kept of satellite positioning based on zip code and when you purchase a satellite finder, the maker will usually give you access to this information. Knowledge of the exact angles you need to properly adjust the satellite ensure that you have the best reception and access to the most channels all of the time. Extremely fine adjustments can be made to a satellites setup by means of these satellite signal meters. The higher end models even allow the signal meter to be linked directly to the satellite unit to make the adjustments automatically. Any satellite signal meter you purchase should feature over-current protection to make sure it is not damaged, nor does it damage the satellite unit.

Satellite signal meters also measure the RF signal strength so that you can adjust the position of the dish antenna to get the maximum signal strength. Bright, LED displays are important to make sure that you can see the reading on the meter. Rechargeable batteries are a nice touch featured on most meters and it gives the meter the ability to power the LNB (low-noise block). Satellite signal meters can test coaxial cables for damage and many meters allow you to adjust the satellite position without the satellite receiver.

Built-in USB capabilities make it easy to upgrade the position charts on a meter. For those who are not very computer savvy, some meters offer menus and readings that require no previous technical or computer skills to make the adjustments to the satellite. There are now some very economical satellite signal meters that allow you to view the actual channel you are adjusting for right on the meter. This allows not only to align the satellite to receive the channel, but also to ensure the stability of the channel directly. Settings on some satellite signal meters can be adjusted by the user, meaning it never needs to be upgraded. Also there are meters on the market that recalibrate themselves every time they are turned on, meaning there is never a need to manually recalibrate them.

Azimuth readings are one of many important reading given by satellite signal meters. Azimuth refers to the angle between two vectors, in this case, the angle between the satellite and the horizon. Strength and quality of signal readings on the satellites signal meter can help you to find the optimum positioning of your satellite. Analog meters allow you to find the optimum position of your satellite in a less high tech way. Analog meters can be connected to any satellite and squeak when you obtain optimum signal strength. Used along with a liquid-filled compass, these analog satellite signal meters allow you to accurately position your satellite.

Accurate positioning of your satellite by means of either a digital or analog satellite signal meter means you truly get the most out of your satellite television programming.