What is a LNB?
The LNB (which stands for Low-Noise Block convertor), is a device that is mounted at the end of a satellite dish arm. It receives the satellite signals that bounce off the Satellite dish, processes them and converts them into a format that the receiver can then show as a picture on a TV screen.

Why am I seeing good signal strength but no image on the screen?
You will need signal strength of 70%+, and signal quality of 65%+ to receive a solid unbroken picture. If you have good signal strength but low signal quality you will need to continue tuning the signal by moving the dish small amounts at a time, you should also double check you are pointing to the correct satellite.

Why am I receiving non English speaking channels?
You are receiving a satellite feed from the wrong satellite. There are many satellites in the sky, some only a few degrees apart. Check your compass bearing and ensure your dish is pointing to the right angle in the sky.

How do I use the Satfinder to fine tune my Signal?
A satfinder is not used as an exact  measure of  your signal quality, in other words a signal reading where the needle is off the scale does not mean you have good signal quality.
Ensure the receiver is powered off. Connect the LNB side of the satfinder (usually marked as LNB) to the LNB using the short satfinder cable then connect the long satellite cable from the satfinder (usually marked “Receiver”) to the receiver, then power on the receiver. At this point you should be able to adjust the sensitivity of the satfinder and see the needle move, this indicates you have cable continuity.
Set sensitivity knob of the meter so that the needle is in the middle of the scale, then as you move the dish in the ‘Left to Right’ position the needle should move, if it moves to the high end of the scale adjust the sensitivity down so the needle is back to the middle of the scale. Keep repeating this process until you have reached the maximum signal possible. Eventually you will come to a point where you will get no more improvement in signal. Next, adjust the elevation of the dish. Follow the same procedure as above, moving the dish up or down until you reach the maximum signal strength. Finally do exactly the same for the LNB skew (rotation of LNB), by rotating the LNB to the correct position, when rotating the skew ensure that you do not stand in front of the dish which may give a false reading. Once you are satisfied you have the best possible signal in all the adjustable parts, tighten the bolts, but keep checking with the satfinder that tightening doesn’t cause the signal to weaken.

What size dish do I need?
Choosing the right size dish can be tricky, and is not an exact science, if there is any doubt the best way to find out is trial and error, or find someone from the same place where you want to receive a signal from and compare dish size. You can use Satellite footprint maps which give you a basic idea although they are not always that accurate. See here for a Satellite footprint map for Astra 2 (Astra 28.2E) http://www.lyngsat-maps.com/maps/astra2d.html . When using this map as a guide you check the region you are in, and then use the table on the right of the map to find out the required dish size.
Can I split one sat cable into two feeds?
Unlike conventional TV signals, you cannot split one Satellite signal into multiple outputs. You can however change the LNB which is the part that sits at the end of the dish arm and is the technical part that controls the signal that is sent to the receiver. Instead of having a ‘single’ LNB which will allow a connection to one receiver you can use a ‘Twin, Quad, or Octo’ allowing two, four, or eight receivers respectively. Each LNB output of a multi-LNB can be connected to a different receiver, when connected like this each receiver can receive a different channel.

How can I receive a signal from more than one Satellite?
There are two ways you can receive signals from more than one satellite, you can use a dish motor which turns the dish towards the satellite you want to receive a signal from, this will allow you to connect to many different satellites, the motor is powered via the receiver. The other option is to mount multiple LNB’s to one dish, with each LNB pointing to a different satellite. At Satgear we offer both options, and would request that you call us to discuss your options prior to purchasing equipment.