This section describes how to point the antenna reflector at
the satellite. Alignment is critical to the operation of the
DirecPC system. When the reflector is pointed directly at the
satellite, the adapter receives a strong signal. If the reflector
is not positioned properly the signal may be weak with errors
resulting during data transfers. This signal quality would become
worse on cloudy, windy, or rainy days.
The elevation value calculated by the Antenna Pointing software
is accurate enough to allow you to acquire the satellite on the
first try if the antenna mast is plumb. If the mast is not
perfectly vertical see the note below.
Important Note (only if your mast is not vertical):
If your mast is not perfectly vertical you can still find the
satellite but it is more difficult. Use a level or plumb bob to
estimate how many degrees you are out of plumb in the direction of
the satellite. Subtract this amount from the elevation calculated
by the software and then subtract an additional two degrees for
margin. Use this value as your initial elevation setting in step
3. If you reach step 10 without having detected the satellite,
adjust the elevation up one degree and return to Step 5. Repeat,
adding one degree of elevation on each pass.
You will be making three adjustment on your antenna:
polarization (rotation of the antenna), elevation (pointing up or
down), and azimuth (pointing side to side).