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Originally Posted by Spoiler
Hi All,
How can I figure out which satellites I can see? I am trying to figure out what channels I would be able to see before I go out and buy the hardware.
I am in New England, USA
Thanks!
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The quick and dirty method:
Buy or borrow a small boy scout compass.
Stand in the spot where you want your dish.
Line up the needle with North.
Position your body so you look directly south (we'll disregard magnetic deviation for now)
Aim your arm up at about 45 degrees and point south.
Can you see sky? Any trees in the way?
Now look 45 degrees to your left, and right.
Drop arm down to about 30 degrees as you do.
Any trees in the way?
If you have a clear view thru this "arc" you will be able to get some satellites.
The detailed method:
Go here to find your location (use zip code for more accurate results):
http://www.sadoun.com/Sat/Installati...Calculator.htm
I used Boston as being New England.
I selected AMC6 and it gave me 41.2 and 181.3 (to which you add about 18deg for magnetic deviation to compass setting)
That's where the satellite AMC 6 is. 41 degrees "up", and 181+18 on the compass dial.
Pick a few of the Sats on the list and that's where they will be in the sky.
As to what's on them, go to:
http://www.lyngsat.com/america.html
and pick the one you wish to investigate. If they have an "F" on them, it's a free channel to view.
The ones colored in green and yellow are Ku band satellites. Forget the pink ones you need a big dish (C-band) to get those.
Hope this helps.