Equipment Setup Flashcards

When aligning a Ku-band dish for a geostationary satellite, which tool is most commonly used to achieve peak signal strength?

Answer: Satellite signal meter

A satellite signal meter provides real-time signal strength readings that guide fine azimuth and elevation adjustments during dish alignment.

What is the primary purpose of a feedhorn on a satellite dish?

Answer: Focus reflected signals into the LNB

The feedhorn collects the reflected microwave signals from the dish surface and directs them into the LNB for conversion.

A DIRECTV SWM (Single Wire Multiswitch) allows multiple receivers to share a single coax run by using which technique?

Answer: Frequency stacking

SWM uses frequency stacking to place multiple satellite transponder signals on different frequency slots within a single coaxial cable.

Which of the following best describes the purpose of a diplexer in a satellite installation?

Answer: Separates satellite IF signals from over-the-air TV signals on one cable

A diplexer combines or separates satellite IF frequencies and OTA broadcast frequencies so both can share the same coaxial cable.

During dish installation, what does 'skew' adjustment specifically control?

Answer: The rotational angle of the LNB around the feed axis

Skew (or polarization rotation) rotates the LNB to align with the satellite's signal polarization angle based on geographic location.

What minimum bend radius should generally be observed when routing RG-6 coaxial cable to prevent signal degradation?

Answer: 3 inches

RG-6 coaxial cable should maintain a minimum bend radius of approximately 3 inches to avoid crimping the dielectric and degrading signal integrity.

When installing a satellite dish on a roof, which practice is essential to prevent water intrusion?

Answer: Applying self-sealing butyl tape or roofing sealant around lag bolts

Lag bolt penetrations must be sealed with butyl tape or roofing sealant to prevent water from entering through the mounting holes.