Satellite Meters/Finders....are they worth it?

[tgrfan2]

I never used mine until I was having trouble getting a signal in a spot I had easily gotten one before. The meter showed me I had a connection problem in the wire to the LNB. Since then I hook it up immediately if I have a problem getting a signal.

 

[AMink]

When I got my satellite system at home, the guy told me all I needed to go on the road was another dish (I have it), cable and a stand. I kind of remember him saying that I have to program the location (zip or area code?) to make it work. Am I dreaming or do you have to do something other than aquire the satellite(s)? Thanks

 

[R-N-R]

The zip code deal will basically tell you what compass/elevation setting to point your dish, but you still have to "find" the satellite through the trees. You could watch the signal strength meter built into the receiver, but that is not always convenient. I found a zip code/azmuth (sp?) setting list on the internet that I keep in the trailer, but the list built into your receiver should work fine. I use CW finder and strength meter (cheap models), they both worked out good for me.



However, I could not get it to work through the existing "cable" connection on the TT. I ran it through a storage compartment door, but it was ugly. Is the signal booster jack screwing up the Satellite signal?? This jack also extends the outside jack to the bedroom. I had a TV fall off and rip the jack out once (something you only let happen once), could I have wired it back together wrong? It seems like the kind of thing that will either work or not, and it works fine with a cable connection.

 

[Jumbo Jet]

Don't leave home without one.



I can have my system (Dish 500) tuned in less than 2 minutes after sitting it on a level tripod.



I set up a Superdish (105, 110, 119 satellites) last week using my signal finder.

 

[phoekema]

Rock-n-Rammer,



If there is anything in the circuit, it could interfear with the satelite receiver/dish. The LNB requires a dc voltage to work and that voltage is provided via the coax to the dish. My guess is any circuitry in the trailer itself would likely not pass along the dc voltage component. I use a Wineguard meter for setting my dish and that meter actually uses the same dc voltage to work.

 

[R-N-R]

Ahh, that makes sense, I will try using the connection direct without the booster. Thanks for the tip!