What is Satellite Finder ?
The device satellite finder is a simple satellite signal meter which is used to align dish antennas with communication satellites available in geostationary orbit.
These devices are commonly used by satellite dish installers, amateur astronomers and individuals who want to align their satellite dishes or antennas with specific satellites.
How to use satellite finder
Satellite finders typically work by detecting the radio frequency (RF) signals transmitted by satellites. By measuring the strength of the received signal, users can adjust the positioning of their dish or antenna.
Usually satellite finder should provide following features:
• It should provide editing of satellite transponder, LO frequency, polarity and Symbol rate.
• It is very accurate method used for antenna alignment with satellite and to install it.
• It provides signal strength as well as quality display
• It supports DVB-S and DVB-S2 functionalities.
Figure-1 depicts typical satellite finder front panel. As shown in the figure following are the ports/buttons provided on the panel.
1 Signal Input(from LNB)
2 Signal Output(to receiver)
3 DC input
4 UP: Move cursor up
5 DOWN: Move cursor down 11 Buzzer
6 LEFT: Move cursor left
7 RIGHT: Move cursor right
8 OK: Confirm (Enter)
9 EXIT: Exit (Cancel)
10 Compass
Satellite Finder Vendors
Following are the popular satellite finder vendors:
• https://www.betacom.hu/
• https://www.maplin.co.uk/
• https://www.dreamboxeshop.co.uk/
• https://www.satcruiser.com/
• https://www.ebay.com/
• https://dpanda.com.au
• SATHERO TECHNOLOGY Co ,https://www.sat-hero.com/
• www.dishpointer.com
• www.amazon.com
• www.screwfix.com
There are different satellite finders having unique features. Some basic models might only display signal strength, while more advanced ones can also provide information about the satellite's position, polarization angle, transponder frequency etc. Some satellite finders even have built-in GPS modules to determine the user's location and the satellite's position accurately.