| Imagine you are out in space, looking down on the Earth. There are dozens of clusters of satellites encircling the earth in "geostationary orbit". Each cluster contains satellites which are so close to each other (usually less than 100 km apart) that their signals appear to arrive on earth from a single point in space. This point is usually specified by its angular position relative to the prime meridian which passes through Greenwich, UK. For clarity, only three satellite clusters are shown here. Satellite clusters are approximately 3 degrees apart. If they were closer together, it would be difficult to focus on one without receiving an interfering signal from the two adjacent. To receive a useful signal from one satellite cluster, the dish must be aligned to an accuracy of no greater than one degree and preferably less. The larger the dish, the smaller the effective focal angle, and the greater the accuracy which is required. Although it is possible to align a dish without the use of a meter, you could spend a long time fiddling. What is your time worth? FAQ: "I get a strong signal but no picture. What is wrong?" A. Your dish is probably aligned on the wrong satellite. Click HERE. |