Apparent aim vs. signal path

[frankxiv]

Originally Posted by Sadoun

When you are attempting to set up a satellite dish in a heavily wooded area or one with lots of man made obstructions, it helps to understand how the dish really works. One common misconception is that the dish points 'directly' at the satellite. This isn't the case for most dish designs. The apparent elevation of the dish is 15 or more degrees lower than it's actual receiving window. Have a look at this diagram.... it's easier to see it than it is to explain it....

So, if my elevation is listed at 46.9 degrees for DirecTV 101 in Savannah, GA, which of the following is true:

1) When I set my elevation to 46.9 the apparent aim of the dish is actually pointing 15 degrees less than that..... or
2) The signal path is actually coming in 15 degrees higher than this, at 61.9 degrees?

I need to know which is the correct line of sight because I have a lot of trees behind my house (looking south) and I am searching for a good mounting location. My options will increase dramatically if the actual signal path is 15 degrees higher than the elevation setting.

Thanks, Frank

[bobkat]

The signal path is actually coming in at 46.9 degrees for your area for DTV101.

The most reliable way to see if you'll clear the trees is with an inclinometer; sometimes a good compass will have one built in.

Don't try to eyeball it, especially if trees are a concern. I've been lazy sometimes and eyeballed it -- had to relocate the dish on several occassions... :roll:

kat