A satellite TV antenna, regardless of size and model, requires precision in setting for optimal functioning of the entire satellite TV system. Even if everything is installed correctly, but there are some errors, this will affect the quality of the signal in bad weather conditions.
To accurately tune a satellite dish, there are professional devices - satellite finders.
In this article we will look at what devices there are for setting up a satellite dish, what they are, as well as how to choose a device and set up a dish.
What is the name of the device for tuning satellite dishes? Such a device is called a satellite finder or Satellite Finder (SatFinder).
Why do you need a device for setting up a satellite dish and what is it?
A device for tuning a satellite dish is also called a satellite finder or a satellite signal indicator. It is designed to quickly search for satellites within a radius of several meters and further configure them.
Satfinder is designed to simplify and speed up the process of searching and setting up a satellite dish, since other devices will only help to approximately determine the direction, azimuth and inclination angle for the equipment.
Azimuth and inclination
The essence of the device is that it determines the exact location of the satellite dish, which subsequently transmits the signal to the receiver. A notification about the correct/incorrect location is displayed on the satellite finder screen.
It is important to know. All satellites are located at a specific longitude, at which the antenna should be pointed. Therefore, after purchasing the equipment, owners of satellite television have to configure the set-top box to search and further display channels.
Scheme of operation of the Satfindr device
Connection options
The user has two ways to configure the dish to receive broadcasts:
- Specialist services. You can call a master and just wait a little while he does all the work, but you will need to pay a lot of money for it.
- Self-installation. In this case, the user saves money, but it will take a lot of time and effort to find the exact direction for the antenna.
The second option is more attractive, but first you need to consider how the setup process works.
Types of Satellite Finder devices
In terms of functionality, all satellite finders are the same, but in terms of cost and volume of information received, there are 3 main types. Let's look at each of them in the table:
| A type of satellite finder | Features, advantages and disadvantages | How much does a satellite dish tuning device cost? |
| Home household models | For self-tuning, use the simplest device - a dial satellite finder. This device is accessible. One of the disadvantages is the low level of response to changes in signal level. | 500 – 2000 rub. |
| Semi-professional and amateur models | Externally, such devices are similar to household models, but they offer the user an LCD display and a wider range of output data. The following are broadcast on the screen of semi-professional models: frequency, polarization, symbol rate. This data allows you to ensure that the signal is tuned to the desired satellite. | From 2000 to 5000 rubles. |
| Professional models | Such devices are intended for use by professional satellite dish installers. They are a portable device with microprocessor control. | From 6000 rub. and higher. |
You need to choose a device based on your own needs. For home use, inexpensive models that are equipped with a dial indicator are suitable.
Switch satellite finder
Powerful devices are used by those who often resort to setting up satellite dishes. For example, installers.
Pribor satfinder for measuring TV signal and setting up a satellite dish
How to choose a quality device for measuring satellite signal
The demand for satellite finders has increased over the past few years, since without it, precise tuning of satellite dishes is impossible. But prices for equipment are falling.
This is due to the fact that the range of TV products on the Russian market is increasing and competition is growing. Manufacturers are trying to produce high-quality device models at an affordable price.
But even now there are a large number of defects on the market. If you purchase such a device and use it during setup, you will not achieve any result.
To avoid mistakes, you need to take a responsible approach to choosing a device. There are a number of recommendations:
- Focus on your own needs. For home use, a dial satellite finder is sufficient , while installers cannot do without an expensive satellite tuning device that will quickly and accurately display data on the LCD display.
- Pay attention to how long the device holds a charge .
- When purchasing a device, you need to pay attention to the build quality , as well as the case material. If it is made of low-quality plastic, then there is a high probability that after a couple of days of intensive use the device will fail.
- Satfinder functionality.
- The presence of a sound signal greatly simplifies the work of setting up a satellite dish. Then you won’t have to constantly look at the device’s LCD display;
- Pay attention to the size and brightness of the screen . The parameters should be convenient for work, because it is not always necessary to work in good lighting and favorable weather conditions.
An ideal device for tuning Satlink WS-6916 satellite antennas:
Securing the converter
Before finally fixing the device, it is rotated to the desired angle; this is done by rotating the converter around the axis of the neck in the holder. When the angle is set, the clamps securing the converter are tightened tightly.
The direction of rotation depends on where you live:
- if you live west of 85°E, then turn the converter in the direction of the clock;
- If you live east of 85°E, then turn the converter counterclockwise.
If you have secured the converter correctly, the lower part of its housing will be directed to the south and away from the north side. This recommendation is suitable for any region of the Russian Federation, except for villages exactly at 85° East, for which you do not need to set an angle, the bottom of the converter is simply directed towards the ground.
After fixing the converter next to it to the rod using electrical tape or special clamps, a cable with a reserve length of about 1 m is secured. The reserve is needed for comfortable replacement of the connector in the event of its failure during use.
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How to set up a satellite dish using satellite finder
To use the device, it must be connected to a receiver and an antenna with an active converter. It will determine which satellite the device is designed for and also calculate the longitude.
Setting up a satellite dish with a satellite finder
A brief algorithm on how to set up satellite TV using the device:
- Connect the cable from the converter through the setup cable to the satellite finder.
- Connect the satellite finder to the receiver.
- Point the dish towards the desired satellite.
- Select a working transponder in the set-top box menu.
- Place the satellite dish in such a position that the signal scale on the device reaches its maximum position.
- To check the result, you need to scan the transponder with the receiver.
- Tighten the antenna fasteners.
- Remove the setting device from the circuit.
Please note that as tuning accuracy improves, the audio level will increase. Additional values may appear on the device screen depending on the model purchased.
At the end of the work, the exact location of the satellite will be determined, as well as what maximum signal level is possible with the exact location of the antenna.
A device for measuring the signal level and setting up Tricolor satellite antennas - video instructions for using Satellite Finder:
Securing the bracket
The holder is secured to the outside of the building so that the antenna subsequently installed on it faces the satellite, that is, the note defined in the previous paragraph is visible.
Bracket Installation
At this stage you may need the following tools:
- electric drill or hammer drill. They drill holes at the mounting points of the holder;
- fasteners for fixing the bracket on the wall;
- insulating tape and a knife that can be used to cut the cable;
- adjustable wrench and wrenches of different sizes;
- pen, felt-tip pen and marker for marking.
To ensure maximum strength in strong gusts of wind, it is best to secure the holder with through-type studs, screws or anchor fasteners, and the part of the pipe on which the antenna is attached should be located perpendicular to the ground.
The result for our example should be an antenna mount facing southeast.
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How to make a device with your own hands from improvised materials
It is difficult, but possible, to assemble a device for setting up a satellite dish on your own. Before doing this, it is imperative to study the device configuration.
Note! For self-assembly, it is recommended to choose simpler models. It is also important to remember that the device must be tested before use.
We recommend choosing a device with a built-in display for assembly. Collecting and finding the components for it is not so difficult. In addition, it has an increased level of accuracy when tuning a satellite dish.
DIY antenna tuning device
To assemble a device for tuning a satellite dish you will need:
- 12 volt battery;
- tuner with adapter;
- display for car rear entry camera 4x3 inches;
- video cable.
The assembly process involves connecting the components together using the wires that come with the kit.
This option is considered the most accessible for assembly, but not the most convenient. Please note that the equipment requires electricity to operate, so it may require more than one meter of electrical wire.
This is inconvenient, especially if you need to configure several satellite dishes per day. One more nuance: if the satellite dish is installed on the roof, then it will be problematic for a person to install a TV there.
A device for setting up satellite dishes with your own hands - SAT FINDER from a phone tuner and wi fi:
Despite the presence of disadvantages, this method remains the most popular for home use, because the device can be assembled from scrap materials, and the setup result is checked on the spot.
Answers to common questions
Let's turn to the most popular questions asked by inexperienced users who have never encountered setting up a satellite dish.
| Question | Answer |
| Is it possible to replace Satfinder? If yes, then with what? | There are various alternatives, such as a compass or a telephone, but all of them have low accuracy in determining the satellite signal. That is why it is recommended to use only satellite finder for installation. |
| Will a cheap satellite finder accurately determine whether a satellite dish is installed correctly? | Yes, the owner can set up the equipment with a cheap satellite finder, but it will take more time if he purchases a more expensive device model. |
| Is it possible to set up a satellite dish without a satellite finder? | Yes, but this can only be done by professional installers who accurately determine the azimuth and location of the satellite in relation to the antenna. |
Regardless of what device and whether it is made by hand, with it the owner of a satellite dish can be sure that self-tuning will be successful.
