About Digital Satellite Installation
Television programming delivered by a communications satellite and picked up by an outdoor receiver is called satellite television. A wide range of television channels and services are available via satellite throughout the world. Digital satellite receivers result in better quality signals than traditional analog receivers. The following considerations involving digital satellite installation are essential for successful program viewing.
Location Strategy is Vital
An unobstructed line of sight is vital for optimum channel availability. Buildings and trees can obstruct the line of sight to the satellite arc. For home satellites located in the central United States, the center of the domestic satellite arch is due south. For homeowners in the eastern portion of the United States, the satellite arch will be east of the location and the western portion is vice versa. Most North American locations with an optimum open skyline should prove an ideal location for satellite reception.
Satellite Footprint
The optimum area of reception coverage is the footprint for a particular area. The footprint can vary from satellite to satellite, as many satellites have multiple coverage areas. The orientation of individual transmit arrays may determine the optimum reception coverage.
Effective Isotropic Radiated Power
Effective isotropic radiated power is measured in decibel watts. Areas with higher number ratings receive better signal. For example, southcentral and northeastern residents receive the strongest signal for PanAmSat 3.
Tips a Salesperson May Avoid Mentioning
Satellites in weaker signal areas may experience difficulty during bad weather or periods of solar activity. Heavy rain, snow and high winds in the Buffalo, New York area affect digital satellite reception. Heavy fog in many locations results in a loss of satellite signal. Signal dropout, digital tiling and frame freezing are generally a result of signal blockage by dust, snowflakes or water droplets in the atmosphere.
Sheltered Enclosures, Dish Size and Installation
A sheltered enclosure may be constructed around the satellite dish to provide shelter from strong winds. As a general rule, the larger the satellite dish, the better the reception, especially in areas of heavy rain, snow or dust. The surface area of the dish determines the signal gain. Normally, the company that sells the dish will install it for free or for a nominal fee. An installation package is available for do-it-yourselfers for around $30 and includes step-by-step instructions.