Using satellite finder

[jfrow2]

Here is an example of installing a dish in a forested area. Our rig in the background is about 100 feet from the dish.



The location of the dishes (mine and a neighbor) was found by using a satellite finder. Once I found the hot spot, a total of three dishes were located at the same spot to serve three nearby camping spots (one dish has been removed in photo).



We served as campground volunteer hosts at this campground. As time allowed, I would assist campers trying to install a dish who had given up in flustration. With the satellite finder, we were able to find a signal in all spots we tried (over 100 sites in campground). I could have sold a number of finders, but the smile on the campers faces was reward enough.



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[JEly]

You talk of the satellite finder and I'm wondering what it is. I am new to this and I am in the market of one.



JIM

 

[jfrow2]

Originally posted by JEly

You talk of the satellite finder and I'm wondering what it is. I am new to this and I am in the market of one.



JIM

I bought mine at Camping World.



They have a good description on how it works. Also look at the "read reviews" section for users opinions.

 

[FDziurda]

Satellite Finder

Look on EBay. I found mine fro $10 + shipping. Works great!

Frank Dz

 

[RustyJC]

Yep, I have the Winegard "bird finder". It works as advertised - it finds a satellite, but you don't know if it's the right satellite. If I'm setting up the dish close enough to the back end of the 5ver where the television is located, I'll use the DirecTV signal strength utility and open the window so that I can go by the audio indication. If I have to set the dish up remotely, I'll use the bird finder, but I may have to use it a couple of times to find the right bird.



Rusty

 

[PHeadings]

After installing dishes for several years i can tell you a inclinometer is your best tool for 10. 00 dollars. (home Depot or Lowes) I did most of my work in California and the numbers didn't change much through out the state. 30 for Dish and 26 for Dtv. Set the inclinometer on the arm and adjust the angle on the reflector for 30 or 26(up and down adjustment). Now just do the (left to right) adjustment with your sat meter and your done. Inclinometer will also correct a unlevel pole.



P. S. you should upgrade your dual lnbs for a quad lnb(four port). Then charge your neighbors 5. 00 dollars to hook in to your dish.

 

[jfrow2]

Originally posted by Cali-600

After installing dishes for several years i can tell you a inclinometer is your best tool for 10. 00 dollars. (home Depot or Lowes) I did most of my work in California and the numbers didn't change much through out the state. 30 for Dish and 26 for Dtv. Set the inclinometer on the arm and adjust the angle on the reflector for 30 or 26(up and down adjustment). Now just do the (left to right) adjustment with your sat meter and your done. Inclinometer will also correct a unlevel pole.

I agree, I bought mine at Sears about three years ago. It sure makes installation of the dish a lot easier. By using the inclinometer for elevation and a good compass for azimuth, I will usually be very close to having the dish pointed correctly, first try. The satellite finder is then used to fine tune the dish to max signal.



I also use the compass and inclinometer to do a survey in heavily forested areas to find an apparent clear shot before setting up the dish and tripod.