Satellite television provides the potential user with slightly greater opportunities in terms of visual entertainment than standard TV. True, modern technologies are already bringing society closer to completely abandoning any antennas and using exclusively small modular set-top boxes.

But for now, satellite television reception remains in demand. This means that setting up a satellite dish in conditions of independent organization of TV reception remains relevant. Let's look at this point in more detail.

In the article, we examined in detail the issue of choosing a place to install the “dish”, the technology of its installation, and also examined step by step how to configure the antenna for satellite broadcasting.

There is probably no need to explain what a satellite dish is. This element of television equipment has already become firmly established in everyday life, and therefore is familiar and understandable to almost everyone.

Meanwhile, it is one thing to imagine a satellite “dish” in general, and quite another thing to consider the device technically and technologically.

An antenna mirror installed on the wall of a building, fully equipped to receive a television signal. This has long been a familiar household accessory, increasingly being installed independently.

Firstly, satellite dishes of the “dish” type are available in different diameters. Secondly, in order to receive a signal from the satellite, the “dish” included in the installation kit must be precisely adjusted.

Antennas of different diameters allow you to receive signals of different frequencies (from different satellites). And each satellite used is in an individual geostationary orbit.

True, for the household sector it seems typical to use antennas with a diameter of no more than 1 m, and often no more than 50-60 cm (NTV-plus, Tricolor-TV).

Therefore, we will focus on such products in order to show potential owners how to configure a satellite dish with a diameter of 50-60 cm to a satellite.

Correct Antenna Installation

Having achieved optimal adjustment of the antenna mirror, the installer needs to fix the “dish” in the optimal position. At this point, the setup work can be considered complete.

Some DIYers abandon satellite antennas and make TV signal catchers themselves. Such options are quite workable if a TV tower is installed nearby.

You can find interesting ideas and detailed instructions for their implementation in the article -

Conclusions and useful video on the topic

Below is an actual full-fledged video course that is ideally suited to the topic under consideration.

After reviewing the video materials, the potential installer has every chance to become a professional equipment setup specialist:

The practice of setting up satellite dishes yourself shows that doing it yourself is quite achievable. Despite all the apparent difficulties, technical installation issues are solved in fairly simple ways.

The conclusion is obvious: by doing self-installation, a potential buyer of equipment saves considerable money on the installation and configuration procedure.

Do you have anything to add or have questions about setting up your satellite dish? You can leave comments on the publication, participate in discussions and share your own experience of installing and connecting the “dish”. The contact form is located in the lower block.

General information about satellite television

Before installing a satellite dish, you need to familiarize yourself with general information, which will ultimately help when setting up the equipment. First, let's find out what a geostationary orbit is. This is an orbit that is located at an altitude of about 35,000 kilometers from the earth, and is equal to the equator. Broadcast satellites are located in geostationary orbit. It is at this height that the speed of the Earth is equal to the speed of the satellite, so the satellite hangs over the same point on its surface. The location of the satellite in geostationary orbit is called the station point. From Earth, the stationary orbit is “visible” in the sky in the form of the so-called “Clark Belt”. The Clark Belt is “visible” as an arc of a curve that degenerates from a circle at the poles to a straight line at the equator. The Clark Belt “rests” on the horizon exactly in the east and west, regardless of location. In the technical manual for satellite equipment, satellite locations are designated by their geographic longitude: angular distance from the prime (Greenwich) meridian. This must be taken into account when orienting the antenna and a correction must be given: from a given point, the Greenwich meridian is “visible” at an angle opposite to the longitude of the location. How some stationary satellites are visible from Greenwich is shown in the figure.

Determination of azimuth and elevation

To accurately install a satellite dish, you need to know: the latitude and longitude of your location, the satellite to which you plan to tune in; these parameters determine the elevation angle (how tilted the antenna is. Rotate the antenna up and down) and azimuth (rotate the antenna right - left). The antenna is adjusted by turning it right - left and up - down and the signal is viewed on the satellite receiver at a certain frequency.
Azimuth is the angle subtracted from the north direction in a clockwise direction.
Elevation angle is the angle in the vertical plane between the horizontal and the direction towards the satellite. First you need to determine your coordinates. Let's say you are in the coverage area of ​​the IntelSat 904 satellite, at a point with coordinates of 55 degrees 53 minutes north latitude (55°53" N) and 37 degrees 26 minutes east longitude (37°26" E). Please note that coordinates can be specified both in the form of “degrees - minutes” and “degrees - decimals of a degree”. In the second case, the same coordinates will be presented as 55.88 degrees north latitude. and 37.43 degrees east. You can calculate the direction to the satellite using the Online calculator on our website or using the "Satellite Antenna Alignment" program.

Using any of the tools mentioned above, determine the azimuth and elevation angle for the Intelsat 904 satellite (standing point - 60 degrees east longitude). As a result, we received an azimuth to the satellite of 153.3 degrees and an elevation angle of 23.2 degrees (differences in the second decimal place are related to the accuracy of the coordinates and calculations and do not affect the antenna settings).

In the direction where the antenna should be pointed, there should be no high buildings, trees, or high-voltage lines nearby.

Antenna selection

Choosing a satellite dish mainly comes down to purchasing an antenna with the required diameter. As a rule, the quality of reception of satellite broadcasts mainly depends on the diameter of the “dish”, so if in the central parts of the satellite coverage a 60 cm dish may be enough, then for the regions located at the edges of the satellite coverage, a larger diameter will be required, which can be equal to 1.5 m.

Installation of a satellite dish at an elevation angle

1. Assemble the satellite dish according to the instruction manual.
2. Attach the satellite dish bracket. Dish fastening elements (anchor bolts, studs, nuts, screws, etc.) are selected depending on the wind load and the material of the wall on which the satellite dish is mounted.
3. Install the satellite dish converters in the holder with the connector facing down so that atmospheric moisture does not get inside the satellite dish converters.
4. Connect the cable to the satellite dish converters using the F-connector*.
5. Secure the cables to the arc of the converter holder with plastic ties or insulating tape.
6. Seal the entire length of the F-connector with 2 layers of insulating tape and apply an even layer of silicone sealant to the insulating tape.
7. Install the satellite dish on the bracket. Tighten the adjusting nuts so that it is possible to move the antenna in the vertical and horizontal planes with some effort.
8. Secure the cable to the satellite dish bracket with plastic ties or electrical tape. Leave a 1 m cable reserve near the antenna, also securing it to the bracket.

Converters, multifeeds, discs

The signal received by the “Mirror” of the satellite dish is focused on the converter (“head”). In the converter, the signal is reduced in frequency by the amount of the converter's local oscillator frequency (indicated on the converter itself) and transmitted via cable to the satellite receiver (tuner). And the satellite receiver receives the signal coming through the satellite, processes it, decodes it and transmits the finished “picture” to the TV. To tune our antenna, we will need 3 linear polarization Ku band converters, since the satellites to which we will tune our antenna broadcast in the linear polarization Ku band. The stickers of these converters indicate the main reception parameters: Reception frequency 10.70-11.70 GHz, 11.70-12.75 GHz; Intermediate frequency 950-1950 MHz and 1100-2150 MHz; Local oscillator frequency: 9750 MHz and 10600 MHz; Internal noise level: 0.3 dB. The use of two local oscillators is due to the fact that the Ku-band is quite wide (2050 MHz), therefore the Ku-band is divided into two sub-bands 10700-11700 and 11700-12750 MHz.

Given the high density of satellites in orbit, one satellite antenna can simultaneously receive signals from two, three, four or even five satellites that are located in close proximity to each other. Accordingly, two, three, four and five converters should be used for this. Additional converters are attached to the supporting rod of the satellite antenna (arc) with special holders - multifeeds.

This combination of satellites on one dish: Amos 4.0 W, Astra 4A 4.8E, Hot Bird 13.0E is usually called a 4W + 5E + 13E combination.
An example of a popular combination for 4 satellites on one dish: Amos 4.0 W, Astra 4A 4.8E, Eutelsat 9B 9E, Hot Bird 13.0E combination 4W + 5E + 9E + 13E

We will not consider all possible combinations; this is beyond the scope of this article. It should be said that there are a lot of them and for TV viewers in different countries such combinations are different. In this article we will look at setting up a satellite dish for the popular combination 4W + 5E + 13E; the combination may be different for you, but the principle of setup remains the same.
Considering that a satellite receiver can supply power to only one converter, in such cases it is possible to install a DiSEqC switch, which automatically switches power from one converter to another depending on which satellite you are watching.

Since the satellite dish is a mirror for the satellite signal, the signal reflected from its surface is collected into a beam and enters the converter. When installing additional heads on side multifeeds, the reflected signal from the right satellite in relation to the central one should be caught on the left side, and the reflected signal from the left satellite on the right side. That is, we have a central satellite Astra 4A 4.8E - we will catch it in the center of the antenna. The Amos 4.0 W satellite is located to the right 4.8 degrees, so the signal from it should be looked for on the left side. The Hot Bird 13.0E satellite is located to the left of Astra 4A, so we will look for the signal from 13 degrees on the right side.

Satellite dish setup:

1.First of all, you need to set the dish to the central satellite, in our case it is Astra 4A 4.8E.
Using an engineering compass corrected for magnetic declination, we set the antenna to the desired azimuth. Roughly, by eye, we set the antenna alignment according to the elevation angle. To tune the antenna, we will need to take out the TV with the tuner and place it closer to the installation site so that we can see the percentages on the tuning scale. We do not connect the power switch (disek) yet, so as not to get confused with satellites. We do the initial adjustment using the middle converter, which is also the central one.
2.Second: Connect the TV and converter to the receiver, turn on the equipment, select (“Antenna installation” -> “Manual search” in the receiver menu). We enter the required signal parameters (prepared transponder frequencies), according to the instructions for it.

3. Turn on the signal search mode. Carefully and smoothly swing the antenna up and down until the receiver “grabs” the satellite. If “it’s not caught,” we check the azimuth again and, changing it in steps of 3 degrees to the right and left, repeat the “swinging” procedure. When the signal is caught, very carefully, slightly turning and swinging the antenna, we achieve the best quality and signal level. The priority is quality.

4. After we have caught the desired satellite and fixed the position of the antenna at the maximum signal, turn on “Level - Quality” again and, carefully moving back and forth and slightly turning the converter in the socket, we achieve maximum readings on the QUALITY scale.


Attention! Antenna tuning must be done while standing behind the dish mirror, holding the converter bracket with your hand. You cannot turn the mirror - it can become deformed, and any interference in front of the antenna or in front of the converter head causes the signal to decrease or disappear altogether. Once again we make sure that the antenna is tuned to exactly the satellite to which we tuned it, and not to some other one. To do this, we scan the transponders from table 1

and turn on some channel.

Table No. 1. Parameters for setting up the Satellite dish:	Satellite	Transponder
Visual inspection channel	Astra 4A (4.8E)	11766 H 27500
Visual inspection channel	1+1, TET, 2+2	12073 H 27500
Visual inspection channel	News One, Glas, Business	12399 V 27500
Inter, NTN, Mega	Hotbird 13B/13C/13E (13E)	10815 H 27500
Inter, NTN, Mega	Russian Music Box, TBN Russia	11034 V 27500
Inter, NTN, Mega	RTR Planeta, Shanson TV	12597 V 27500
EuroNews, Perviy channel Romania	Amos 2/3 (4W)	11139 H 30000
EuroNews, Perviy channel Romania	112 Ukraine, Tonis, Inter	11175 H 30000
EuroNews, Perviy channel Romania	Telekanal STB, M1, Novy Kanal	10842 H 30000

UA TV, Boutique TV

5. Setting up 2 additional satellites (Amos 4.0 W and Hot Bird 13.0E) involves finding the position of the converter relative to the central one. We connect the following converter to the receiver, for example the Amos 4.0 W satellite. In the menu we set its parameters. WITHOUT TOUCHING THE ANTENNA, smoothly and carefully turn the converter left and right until it “grabs” the satellite. We make sure that we “caught” what we need, as described above. By moving the converter back and forth (this is the so-called focusing) and rotating (adjustment along the plane of polarization), we achieve the best signal. We similarly adjust the third converter for the Hot Bird 13.0E satellite. 6. After all the manipulations, you need to once again make sure that all satellites are configured correctly, and once again check the tightness of all antenna elements. 7. Now you can connect DiSEqC using prepared and marked cable sections with the corresponding convector. Don't forget to set the port numbers for each satellite in the receiver. Then we move the equipment into place at home. That's it, the installation of the satellite dish is complete. All that remains is to select and configure the desired programs (channels) in the receiver menu.

Today, satellite receivers, depending on their technical characteristics, can be divided into four main classes:
4th grade: These are usually budget satellite receivers designed for receiving uncoded TV channels. Most often they do not have a card reader. The TV is connected to them using RCA (tulips), SCART or HDMI cables. Such receivers reproduce TV programs in the digital standard DVB-S/S2, video compression format MPEG-2/MPEG-4. The cost of receivers ranges from $18-25. An example of a budget receiver would be Sat-Integral 1225 HD Able, Tiger X80 HD, Tiger 4100 HD
3rd grade: The third class includes receivers that, in addition to the previous receivers, have a card reader that allows you to install cards from paid satellite operators. Before choosing a receiver with a card reader, you should find out what encoding is broadcast by the operator whose services you want to use. These can be Conax, Irdeto, Viacces, etc. encodings. As a rule, each receiver supports one encoding option, in rare cases – several types. These receivers reproduce TV channels in the DVB-S2 standard and cost $30-60.
2nd grade: The second class receivers include the currently most common HDTV receivers (DVB-S2 standard, MPEG-4 video compression format). For example, receivers Openbox S4 Pro+ HD, Amiko SHD-8900 Alien, GI S8120 or Sat-Integral S-1210HD.
1 class: First-class receivers include HDTV receivers with advanced capabilities and costing from $200, which, in addition to receiving satellite signals in high definition, can perform the functions of a home media center. For example, they have the ability to install, or already contain on board, additional digital tuners that allow you to connect cable television of the DVB-C standard, which is present in your home, or digital terrestrial television of the DVB-T standard, which can be received on a regular terrestrial antenna, for example like Optibox Raptor HD.

Conclusion In this article, we examined only the main stages of setting up a satellite antenna (dish) using the example of a popular combination of three satellites Amos 4.0 W, Astra 4A 4.8E, Hot Bird 13.0E. Installation and configuration of antennas on other satellites is carried out in a similar way and consists of such steps as: - selection of satellites, selection of their frequencies; - determination of terrain coordinates, determination of azimuth; - antenna installation; - setting according to the method described above.

It is not at all necessary to call a specialist to set up a regular satellite dish. In this case, you can save money. We will tell you how to independently configure the Tricolor TV antenna to a satellite. Using these tips, you can do everything right. It's only a little more complicated than connecting a monitor to a computer.

By the way, you can ask the seller to assemble the antenna and bring it home assembled. This will save some time, but even self-assembly will not complicate this process. All you need to do at home is drill holes for the bracket (the plate is attached to it), and then follow the recommendations and actions in the instructions. The instructions themselves must be included with the purchase, so check the kit for its availability.

Tools and devices for tuning the "Tricolor TV" antenna

You will need the tools that are available in any home: strong electrical tape (where would you be without it), various screwdrivers (you may only need one screwdriver of a certain type), a hammer drill or drill, pliers, a knife, wrenches 8-13.

It is possible that you may need some additional tools (ladder, stepladder, special drills for a hammer drill, clips for securing the cable, etc.), because installation conditions always differ for different houses. Some have used it and even manage to improve the original design of the bracket and weld additional ribs to it.

The standard purchase package includes the antenna itself, a bracket, a receiver (set-top box), and a converter. Sometimes sellers have promotions and the package may include various bonuses, but this is rare.

Self-tuning of the "Tricolor TV" antenna in theory

The procedure itself looks like this (very generally): one person sits at home and looks at the TV screen, the other tries to point the antenna at the satellite and catch the signal. Using the remote control, you adjust the signal until the picture on the TV becomes clear.

It is worth noting that for different settlements, independent tuning of the Tricolor TV antenna to the satellite will be carried out slightly differently. For example, when setting up an antenna in Samara, you should point it in the direction where the sun is at 12:30. Then it needs to be slightly adjusted depending on how the picture on the TV screen changes. As soon as the adjuster sees that the picture has become clear, he gives a signal to the one who installs the antenna on the roof, and he, in turn, fixes it on the bracket in the desired position. That is, in the position in which the antenna catches the signal.

It is not difficult to catch a signal, because the Eutelsat 4 satellite (it is with its help that Tricolor TV broadcasts) covers a huge part of Russia and gives a strong signal.

Instructions for self-tuning the Tricolor TV antenna to a satellite

As stated above, Tricolor TV operates EUTELSATW4, which is located at 36 degrees east longitude. The installation is carried out in several stages, each of which we will describe sequentially below.

Determining the location for installing the antenna

The main criterion for such a place is a clear view in the direction from which the signal will come. There may be leaves and trees behind the antenna, it doesn’t matter, but the front side of the antenna should be clear. Depending on the city, the visual line connecting the satellite and the antenna is raised from the horizon 27-30 degrees upward. If this visual line abuts any structure (a house, for example), then you should look for another place.

Experts recommend installing the antenna on the roof of the house, on the outside of the balcony, but not on the inside (because of the glass). Also, you cannot install the antenna on sloping roofs, because it will collect snow in winter, and this is an additional load for which the antenna is not designed.

If the store has not yet assembled the antenna for you, then you should assemble it yourself strictly in the order specified in the instructions. At the place you have chosen, we attach the bracket. Depending on the conditions (wall material, etc.), we select the correct fastening elements: drills, anchor bolts, screws, etc. It is important to take into account the possibility of precipitation, in particular snow. The antenna must be installed in a place so that snow cannot get on the converter.

Connecting the F connector

Next, we connect the cable to the converter using a special F-connector (it is included in the kit). Then we use zip ties or simple electrical tape to secure the cable to the envelope holder and be sure to seal the f-connector. The same electrical tape is ideal for sealing. Just wrap the joint in several layers. It is advisable to use silicone sealant in addition, but if you don’t have it, then it’s okay. Some users find another way: they use a regular plastic soda bottle. The bottom is cut off, the joint is placed in it, then both ends are wrapped with electrical tape. The technique, although primitive, works. Although ideally it should be silicone sealant and electrical tape.

The F-connector itself is easy to install: you expose the cable, insert it into the connector, and fix it. Everyone has dealt with a regular cable that connects to the TV. It's the same here. The photo below shows examples.

Now we place the plate itself on the bracket. To begin with, you don’t need to screw it tightly, but it shouldn’t dangle from the wind either. Tighten the adjusting nuts, but not too tightly, because you have to turn the plate left and right and up and down to find the ideal point.

Setting up the Tricolor TV satellite dish

First, sets the antenna rotation angle and azimuth. So far, approximately. Depending on the city, you need to display it differently. For example, the azimuth in Tolyatti is 197.49 degrees, the elevation angle is 27.884 degrees (you need to orient yourself to the south). A compass or city map will help with this.

The antenna must be installed so that it corresponds to an elevation angle of 26.6 degrees. This means that the plate itself should be tilted 3-4 degrees down. Then connect the cable that comes from the converter to the set-top box. It needs to be inserted into the LNB IN socket (the leftmost one in the picture below).

TV connection

The same F-connector is used here, so there should be no problems. Now we connect the TV to the receiver. Everything must be done in the order specified in the instructions. That is, first we connect the cable to the TV (we use the RF OUT socket on the receiver and the only socket for the antenna on the TV), turn off the TV. If the receiver is turned on for the first time, the LNB power supply may be turned off. In some cases this is exactly the case. The power turns on when you follow the start menu instructions. When turned on, the search is activated and must be marked by simply pressing the EXIT button.

Setting up the receiver on TV

1. Antenna - 1;
2. Frequency - 12226;
3. EutelsatW4-EutelsatSesat satellite;
4. FEC - 3/4;
5. Polarization - left;
6. Flow rate 27500.

There will be two indicators on the TV screen. The lower one shows the signal level, the upper one shows the quality. The person on the roof must move the antenna mirror slightly horizontally to find the position that will give the maximum signal strength (lower indicator). Then the plate should be moved up and down to search for the best signal quality (upper indicator). This is how the search for the desired point is carried out and the Tricolor TV antenna is tuned to the satellite. Once the point is found, the plate must be finally and firmly fixed in the desired position.

The influence of weather on tuning and searching for a signal

Signal strength is highly dependent on weather conditions. If there is rain or fog or cloudiness, then it is unlikely that you will be able to adjust the Tricolor TV antenna yourself. It is simply impossible to catch a strong signal level. This should be done on a clear day under ideal weather conditions.

Once all the described actions have been completed, you can search for channels. The instructions for the receiver will definitely tell you how to do this. But this is understandable even intuitively. Here we will not describe the process of searching for channels, but note that first we need to find only an information channel. In theory, only this should be accessible to the user after installing the antenna. Access to others after registering on the Tricolor TV website and activating the card.

Subtleties for self-installation and configuration of the "Tricolor TV" antenna

There are some unspoken rules and subtleties that you need to know about:

1. We look at the neighbors. There are almost always plates in nearby neighbors' houses. To begin with, we install our antenna in approximately the same way.
2. If it was not possible to catch the satellite within the first 20 minutes, then it is better to look for another place for installation.
3. When setting up the receiver, it is better to have a small monitor (TV) nearby so that you can immediately see how the picture changes when the antenna moves. Most often, people, trying to tune the Tricolor TV antenna to a satellite on their own, shout at each other or talk on the phone.
4. It is better not to change your PIN unless absolutely necessary. If you change the code and then forget it, there is no way to restore it. Although it is possible to re-flash the receiver, it is difficult and not accessible to everyone.
5. Once all channels have been found, you need to finally tighten the antenna to the maximum.
6. If suddenly the antenna tunes to another satellite (and this may happen), then there is no need to save the found channels. You will have to again configure the Tricolor TV satellite antenna yourself, rotating it horizontally and vertically in order to find the best signal point.
7. The bolts must be tightened carefully. Often, when tightening bolts, users lose the position and have to do everything again.
8. You need to register on the Tricolor TV website after setup, and not before. First, set up the antenna, and as soon as the info channel is displayed clearly, you can register on the company’s website. After receiving the smart card, all channels will become available after some time.

That's all. We can assume that you have configured the Tricolor TV antenna yourself. There is nothing complicated in the process itself, and any person who knows how to use a drill/hammer and knows how to connect the simplest F-cable to the receiver and converter can handle this. No specialized knowledge is required, so you don’t need to call a specialist if you don’t want to spend extra money.

Of course, this process is not described in as much detail as possible. It is likely that some difficulties may arise during installation that cannot be foreseen when writing the article.

The satellite television system is a supply complex whose main purpose is to receive television programs. This broadcasting is carried out using special communication satellites located in geostationary orbits. Their location is around the equator.

This type of television is becoming more common. And millions of families own satellite dishes. To install and connect them, they most often enlist the help of professionals. But even an ordinary person can set up satellite dishes. You don't need to have any special skills or knowledge to do this. Setting up a satellite dish yourself is not such a difficult task, the price of which, even without paying for the services of a specialist, is significant for an ordinary person.

Choosing a satellite

Once the decision has been made to independently install and configure a satellite dish, you need to decide on a satellite. This means that you need to select an operator for this type of television whose signal it will receive.

The name of this television arose due to the fact that a whole system of orbital satellites in space is used to provide it. They broadcast the signal received from television stations to vast areas located on Earth.

Satellite dishes are a kind of receiver. After receiving the signal, it is reflected onto the collecting head, which is called a convector. He transmits it to the receiver - a device for tuning satellite dishes and decoding. And only after passing through all these stages does it appear on the TV screen in the form of image and sound.

Types and placement of satellites

There are 2 types of satellites. Some are used for broadcasting open channels, others are encrypted. There are cases when the owners of equipment on a satellite are different operators. Then, setting up a satellite dish yourself involves purchasing a special card in order to separately decode each channel. But in most cases, a group of channels makes up a package. And to restore access to them, it is enough to have one single card.

Russian-language channels are broadcast from different satellites. They are located at different latitudes and meridians. To ensure signal reception from the selected source, you need to point the antenna precisely at it and correctly set the receiving frequency. If the selected satellites are separated by a significant distance, you can receive a signal from them using just one antenna.

During the selection process, you need to consider whether it is possible to point your antenna at a specific signal source. If any objects (neighboring buildings, trees, etc.) will create significant interference with its flow, you need to install it on the roof of the house. If this is not possible, you should try to tune the antenna to other satellites located in the visibility zone.

Equipment

It is not difficult to guess that one antenna and its signal are not enough. In order to set up a satellite dish with your own hands, you need to have, correctly install and configure an entire system of satellite equipment. It can be purchased at a specialty store.

Basic elements for assembly:

1. An antenna, more often called a “dish”. Its diameter is from 0.7 m to 1.2 m. Its purpose is to shape the received beam into focus.
2. The most expensive part is the receiver. Its choice must be approached with special care and responsibility, because broadcasting is divided into two formats: mpeg2 and mpeg4. The second one is much better.
3. The head, which is a convector. Their number can vary from 1 to 3. Depending on the number of satellites - one for each. They must be universal with a linear type of polarization.
4. 2 fastenings (multi-feeds).
5. Converter switch - disc. Its presence is due to the fact that the tuner assumes the simultaneous reception of a signal from only one satellite. And the disek - a device for tuning satellite antennas - ensures their switching in the case when 2 or more are used.
6. Coaxial cable with a resistance of 75 ohms. Its quantity must be calculated so that there is a reserve of 3-5 meters.
7. Plugs used to make the connection (F-connectors).
8. Bracket and dowels.

Required Tools

Do-it-yourself installation and configuration of a satellite dish is carried out with the following tools:

• extension cord for at least 3 outlets;
• drill or hammer drill (used to secure the bracket with dowels);
• 10 and 13 mm wrenches;
• Phillips screwdriver;
• hammer;
• insulating tape or plastic ties.

Build process

The correct setting of satellite dishes depends on the choice of location for their installation. In this case, several nuances need to be taken into account. In order for a signal to be received from a satellite, it must be able to easily reach the receiving mirror. Therefore, you need to install the antenna as high as possible. Rooftops are ideal for this.

Program for setting up a satellite antenna "Satellite Antenna Alignment"

In order to correctly calculate the elevation (elevation angle) and azimuth of all satellites separately, use the Satellite program. It differs from other similar services in that it determines these characteristics for all satellites simultaneously. You can immediately see which satellites are available at a given antenna location and which are not.

But here the calculation is purely theoretical. But in practice, many factors and obstacles need to be taken into account. But this program for setting up a satellite dish helps to more accurately estimate the position.

Features of modern tuners, their settings

Most of the tuners that are on sale are already wired with channels. Therefore, there is no need to scan and sort them. This provides more convenient and simpler setup.

To implement it, you need to connect the TV and satellite receiver to the electrical network. Then you need to turn on the required channel on the Astra, because the satellite antenna will be tuned to the satellite at its focus (in other words, at its center).

After this, press the “Info” button on the remote control. When the required channels are not available on the satellite, you need to edit the transponder frequencies. If they are not registered there, you need to do it yourself. When they are driven into the scales on the screen, it will be possible to determine the strength and quality of the signal.

Some nuances associated with connecting the antenna

There are several important points in this process. For example, you need to properly and thoroughly strip the cable. You also need to be very careful when connecting the F-connector, since otherwise a short circuit of the braid and the central core may occur. In the worst case, the receiver will be damaged.

Equally important is the correct connection of the cable to the desired LNB_IN output.

If you connect the entire assembly, you can configure the disk ports. But this is a more difficult independent setup of a satellite dish.

Satellite setup process

Now the antenna is located approximately correctly and turned in the expected direction of the satellite. You need to go to the settings of the receiver (tuner) and select the appropriate satellite there. After this, you should specify the correct frequency, speed and polarization indicators for it. For example, for the Sirius satellite these indicators are 11766, 2750 and N, respectively.

Then you can see two bars on the screen. The first will show that the signal is caught by the dish, and the second will show its power. If the satellite dish is installed correctly, the signal level should be more than 40%. You just need to increase the quality value, which at this stage is within 0.

If it is not possible to simultaneously adjust the antenna and watch the TV screen, you need to enlist the help of an assistant. He will be responsible for correcting your actions. Then setting up satellite dishes will not take much time, but will be done quite quickly and with better quality.

First you need to turn the plate completely to the right side up. From this position, you need to slowly rotate it to the left and continuously monitor the strength of the signal on the TV screen.

If this attempt to capture a signal is unsuccessful, you need to lower the satellite dish a few millimeters down and repeat all over again.

Setting up satellite dishes involves painstakingly searching for a signal using manual adjustment.

"Tricolor-TV"

Setting up the Tricolor satellite dish is practically no different from other analogues:

Independent connection of the antenna for receiving "Telecard TV"

Before purchasing the “Telecard TV” kit in a specialized store, you should decide what diameter the plate should be. In this case, you need to take into account your location relative to the satellite. The size of its diameter can vary from 60 to 90 cm.

The Telekarta TV satellite dish is configured for the Intelsat-15 satellite. If it is not in the list of your receiver, you need to enter its data yourself:

• converter frequency - 10600
• food - incl.

Then you should check the characteristics of the transponder: the frequency should be 12640 MHz, the symbol rate should be 30000, FEC - 5/6, vertical polarization type and broadcast format - MPEG2, DVB-S.

After starting the search, the receiver should find 18 channels. The "Telecard TV" package does not contain high-definition HD channels, so when connecting it to more modern TV models, you need to take into account HD satellite receivers. They convert the satellite signal and “show” a clearer image when receiving Telecard TV.

"Adjusting" the signal level

In order to fix the antenna position, the signal quality indicator must be at least 20%. Now you can lightly turn it in both directions in order to achieve the minimum, which is 40%.

But this is far from the end of this painstaking and difficult work. In order for the entire system to work correctly, 60-80% quality is needed. This can only be achieved by manipulating the convector. To do this, turn it clockwise or counterclockwise until the signal level becomes satisfactory.

Then you need to adjust the side convectors (if any). It is much easier to configure additional heads, since the main one already fully performs its functions. For each of them, you need to indicate the corresponding satellite and pick up the signal. This process is similar to that carried out with the main head.

Now all that's left to do is set up the satellite dish channels and adjust the TV itself. To do this, you should organize all the channels - arrange them in a way that will be convenient for each owner. Some may need to be removed or blocked. This process is individual for each user.

A satellite dish at home or in the country has already become commonplace, like an iron or an electric kettle. People are installing their own antenna for a good picture on their TV. The article and video will give you instructions for installation yourself.

Assembling the kit

When choosing a plate, the key is its diameter. For home reception in the southern regions, an antenna mirror with a diameter of 0.6 m is sufficient. In the northern regions, for a stable signal, the diameter of the device increases to 1.2 m. A large mirror provides a signal of better quality, but it is more difficult for them to “catch” a satellite than for small ones. A satellite dish only at first glance looks like a complex structure. You can assemble and install it yourself. Your plate kit should consist of the following parts:

Attention! Rely on a consultant or seller when choosing a receiver, converter, etc. He will suggest a model based on your needs and price. The entire set can also be purchased as a set.

Antenna installation

First of all, decide on the future location of the antenna. When planning, it is important to leave open space in the desired directions where the antenna will be turned, so that the signal path is not blocked by trees or buildings. There is no need to coordinate the installation of satellite equipment with any authorities. If we are talking about the roof or load-bearing wall of a multi-story building, inform the balance holder of the house about your intentions. Otherwise, conflicts may arise in the future.

During the assembly process you may need the following tool:

• impact drill or hammer drill with a set of drills;
• keys for 10 and 13;
• "nippers";
• screwdriver;

It is better to assemble the plate with all the “stuffing” at home and only then attach it to the wall. The instructions will most often clearly explain what is connected to what, and the tools will help you. After this, you can begin installation.

The metal bracket on the wall must be fixed strictly vertically and held tightly. An anchor or a bolt - it doesn’t matter, the main thing is the safety and durability of the antenna. Otherwise, in windy weather the signal quality will decrease. After installation, you need to fine-tune the heads and connect them correctly to the DiseqC switch so that the settings in the tuner match the connection in the antenna. The disek will last longer if you cover it with a cut-off plastic bottle.

Antenna setup

To set up the antenna, you need to calculate the satellite azimuth and elevation angle. An ordinary compass and formula will help you calculate them. In order not to fool their heads, developers came up with smartphone applications, for example, Satfinder. An azimuth calculator can easily be found on the Internet along with a map of approximate satellite coordinates relative to your area. The search engine will also help you with the exact coordinates of your locality. All received water data must be entered into the formula, and the program will tell you about the azimuth and tilt angle of your antenna.

Vertical offset plates already have a curvature angle; its value can be found in the instructions. Fix the antenna firmly, but so that it can move with light force, and point it towards the satellite, taking into account the calculated data. A TV is required to tune the antenna. DiseqC is connected to the tuner (LNB IN input) by cable. Most often, this can be done using either a SCART connector or an RCA output (“tulip”). Communication with DiseqC must only be carried out with the power switched off.

Advice. Manually adjusting the antenna in relation to satellites is a delicate matter. It is inconvenient to raise the TV to a height, so adapt gadgets: a phone, a car radio or a tablet, which together with a tuner will provide a picture already on the roof.

After connecting to the network, the receiver should show no signal on the screen. To configure, you need to enter the receiver’s menu (usually the code is 0000) and find the satellite you need. You need to tune in to a strong satellite transponder: indicate the frequency, polarization, indicate the symbol rate, fec. A strong one is often the one from which several channels are broadcast. If after these manipulations the signal scales twitch to high levels, you have calculated correctly. Now you just need to slightly adjust the signal by rotating the antenna, no more than 10 mm in azimuth and angle.

If the quality leaves much to be desired, start searching manually. The sector for this is usually selected in this way: by elevation +/-10°, by azimuth +/-15°. It is necessary to rotate from the extreme corner, pausing for 2-3 seconds. after 4-5 mm. After successfully “catching” all the satellites, do not forget to isolate the connectors from external factors (for example, rubber) and carefully secure the cable along the way to the tuner.

How to install and configure a satellite dish: video

Satellite dish: photo