RCA DRD102RW, DS1120RW, DSA100RW Installation Guide

I

DSSSqsrem
Installation

TrainingFlanual

Foreword

This publication is intended to assist the installation technician installing the RCA brand DSS TM Digital
Satellite System. In this publication, basic installation techniques are covered for most common situations.

Included in each explanation is a suggested material and tool list. Also included is an overview of the DSS
System plus a signal flow description of the DSS receiver. This information is included to help the technician

install the system and explain its operation to their customers.

Safety Information!

DANGER Avoid Power Lines! When following the instruction in this guide to install and connect the

satellite antenna and connections, take extreme care to avoid contact with overhead power lines, lights, and
power circuits. Contact with these items may prove fatal.

Outdoor Dish Grounding: The outdoor dish used to receive satellite signals and the cable used to connect
the outdoor dish to the indoor receiving unit are required to comply with local installation codes and the

appropriate sections of the National Electrical Code (NEC), especially Article 810 and Article 820. These
codes require proper grounding of the metal structure of the outdoor dish and grounding of the connecting

cable at a point where it enters the house (or other building). The DSS System Installation Training Manual
contains instructions on how to install the system in compliance with the National Electrical Code (NEC).

If additional local installation codes apply, contact local inspection authorities.

Compliance with National Electrical and Local Codes: Before installing the Digital Satellite System,

check the electrical codes in your area.

Restrictions: Before installing the dish, check the zoning codes, covenants, and community restrictions in

your area. Some rules prohibit installing large satellite dishes, but may allow small ones. Also, there may

be restrictions in your area that limit the mounting height of dishes.

If you encounter homeowner or community restriction's, call 1-800-679-4776. Personnel at this number
can provide information that may be helpful when attempting to obtain permission to install the DSS Digital

Satellite System on the property.

* DSS and Digital Satellite System is an official trademark of DIRECTV, Inc., a unit of GM

Hughes Electronics.

Prepared by

Second Edition 9415 - First Printing
Copyright 1994

Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc.
Trademark(s)® Registered Marca (s) Registrada(s)

Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc.
Technical Training Department

10330 North Meridian St.

Indianapolis, Indiana 46290-1024

Table of Contents

Overview ................................................................................................................................... 5

Technical Overview ................................................................................................................. 10

Satellites ............................................................................................................................... 12

Dish ...................................................................................................................................... 14

Receiver Circuitry ................................................................................................................ 16

Diagnostics ........................................................................................................................... 17

Site Survey ................................................................................................................................ 22

Installation ................................................................................................................................ 32

Mounting the Dish ................................................................................................................ 32

Vertical Mounting Systems .................................................................................................. 42

Panel Siding ............................................................................................................................................. 42

Lap Siding ................................................................................................................................................. 46

Brick ......................................................................................................................................................... 52

Onder Block ............................................................................................................................................. 56

Horizontal Mounting Systems .............................................................................................. 63

Deck Railing ............................................................................................................................................. 63

Roof ..........................................................................................................................................................64

SpecialMounting Systems ...................................................................................................69

PoleMount ...............................................................................................................................................69

Chimney....................................................................................................................................................72

Dish Assembly .....................................................................................................................79

AssembletheDish.....................................................................................................................................79

InstalltheLNB Cable...............................................................................................................................81

InstalltheLNB ..........................................................................................................................................86

AttachingLNB CabletoReceiver.............................................................................................................88

TelephoneCableInstallation...................................................................................................................91

InstallingtheReceiver..........................................................................................................98

System Connections..................................................................................................................................I00

AligntheDish ......................................................................................................................105

DetermineAzimuthand Elevation............................................................................................................106

AdjustElevation........................................................................................................................................I07

AdjustAzimuth..........................................................................................................................................107

AcquiringSignal.......................................................................................................................................I09

Troubleshooting ....................................................................................................................... 114

APPENDICES

A. Finding DSS Azimuth and Elevation .............................................................................. 118

B. Using a Compass ............................................................................................................. 130

C. National Electrical Code .................................................................................................. 126

D. DSS Reference Publications ............................................................................................ 129

E. RCA DSS Dish Parts List ................................................................................................ 132

Glossary .................................................................................................................................... 133

Index ....................................................................................................................................... 136

Overview 5

Satellite Communication Basics

All comm_'cations services, from ship-to-shore communications, radio and television
to communications satellites are assigned unique bands of frequencies within the
electromagnetic spectrum in which to operate.

To receive signals from the earth successfully and relay them back again, satellites use
very high frequency radio waves operating in the microwave frequency bands--either

the C-band or KU-hand. C-band satellites generally transmit in the frequency band of

3.7 to 4.2 Gigahertz (GHz), in what is known as the Fixed Satellite Service band orFSS.
However, these are the same frequencies occupied by ground-based point-to-point

communications, making C-band satellite reception more prone to interference.

KU-band satellites may be classified into two groups: low and medium power KU-band
satellites, transmitt'mg signals in the 11.7 to 12.2 GHz FSS band; and the new high-

power KU-band satellites transmiting in the 12.2 GHz to 12.7 GHz Direct Broadcast

Satellite service (DBS) band.

Unlike C-band satellites, these newer KU-band DBS satellites have exclusive rights to
the frequencies they occupy, and therefore have no microwave interference problems.

The RCA D SS System will receive programming from high-power KU-band satellites

operating in the DBS band.

Overview

Although C-band satellites are spaced 2° apart,high power KU-band satellites are

spaced 9° apart,and transmit at 120 ormore watts of power.

Because o ftheir lower frequency and transmitting power capabilities, C-band sate llites
require a large receiving dish, anywhere from 6 to 10 feet in diameter. The higher power

of KU-band satellites enables them to broadcast to a compact 18 inch diameter dish.

Satellite System

A satellite systemis made up of three basic dements:

• An uplink facility, which beams programming signals to satellites orbiting over the
equator.

• A satellite that receives the signals and re-transmits them hack to earth.

• A receiving station including the satellite dish.

The picture and sound information originating from astudio or broadcastfacility is first
sent to an uplink site, where it is processed and combined with other signals for
transmission on microwave frequencies. Next, a large uplink dish concentrates these

outgoing mierowave signals and beams them up to a satellite located 22,247 miles

above the equator. The satellite's receiving anteuna captures the incoming signals and

sends them to a receiver for further processing. These signals, which contain the

original picture and sound information, are converted to another group of microwave
frequencies, then sent to an amplifier for transmission back to earth. This whole

receiver/transmitter package is called a transponder. The outgoing signals from the
transponder are then reflected off a transmitting antenna, which focuses the micro-

6 Overview

waves into a beam of energy that is directed toward the earth. A satellite dish on the
ground collects the microwave energy containing the original picture and sound

information, and focuses that energy into a low noise block converter or LNB. The
LNB amplifies and converts the microwave signals to yet another lower group of
frequencies that can be sent via conventional coaxial cable to a satellite receiver-

decoder inside the user's house. The receiver tunes the individual transponders and

converts the original picture and sound information into video and audio signals that
can be seen and heard on a conventional television monitor and stereo system.

RCA DSS System

The RCA DSS System is a direct broadcast satellite system that enables millions of

viewers to receive many channels of high quality digital video programs fi,om anywhere

in the continental United States. The complete system transports digital data, video and
audio to the customer's home via high powered KU-band satellites. The program

provider sends its program material to an uplink site where the signal is digitally

encoded. The uplink site compresses the video and audio, encrypts the video and
formats the information into data "packets." The signal is transmitted to the DBS
satellites orbiting the earth at 22,247 miles above the equator at 101° west longitude.

The signal is then relayed back to earth and decoded by the customer's receiver. The
receiver connects to the customer's phone line and communicates with the subscription

service computer providing billing information (see figure 1).

Basic

Package

R CA DSS Hardware

The two DSS packages are Basic and Deluxe.

Basic Package:

• Antenna (or Dish) with a single output dual polarity, Low Noise Block Converter

(LNB).

• Satellite Receiver.

• DSS/TV universalremote.

DeluxePackage:

• SheetMoldedCompound(SMC)antenna with a twin outputdualpolarity LNB.

• SatelliteReceiver,incorporatingalowspeeddataport and additional audio/video

jacks

• A fullyuniversalremotethatcannotonly control the satellitereceiver, butalso

multiplebrandsof televisions,VCRsand cableboxes.

Themodel# DS1120RW(BasicPackage)includesaDRD102RWSatelliteReceiver,
#217095 (CRK91AI) Remote,and aDSA100RWAntenna/LNB).

DRD102R W Satellite Receiver

• Revolutionary compact design that blends in with other consumer eleca:onics
entertainment products.

• Color-coded jack panel facilitates system integration and provides easy hook-up.

_ TELUTE #1

Overview 7

UPLINK 5ffE

PHONEUNK_IA

IRDMOO_I

DDDDD

TELEPHONE UNE

PROGRAMPRO_IOER

Figure 1, Digital Satellite @stem

8 Overview

Connections include:
Satellite in: Provides direct connection from the satellite antenna/LNB.

In from Ant: Provides connection from an off-air antenna or cable feed.
Out to TV: Provides connection to antenna input of television.

S-VIDEO: Provides direct Y/C output to compatible televisions and VCRs.
Video, R/L Audio: Provides direct video and audio signals to television receivers,
VCRs and audio components.
Wideband Data Port: Enables reception of future services such as HDTV.

Phone: Provides connection to telephone line for program billing.

Indicators: LED on front panel that indicates "on" and blinks when there's a
message waiting.

• Local Controls: Eight buttons on the Satelfite Receiver's front panel allow full
operation of the satellite receiver, even without the remote control.

Access Card: A special card inserted into a slot on the receiver's front panel that
provides the means to track subscriber service requests and enable "turn-on" and
"turn-off" capability for subscription and pay-per-view events.

An electronic serial number unique to each card and satellite receiver enables the
Satellite Receiver to receive electronic messages from the communications center.
Messages are displayed on the television screen.

• 16x 9 widesereen formatcompatible: Processes panand scan commands fromthe

video data in a 16x 9broadcast, allowing the viewer to watch on a 4 x 3 television.

• Program Guide displays an electronically updated matrix of currentand future

programs sortedby service and time.

The system also supports specific guides, such as pay-per-view, sent by program
providers.

• Additional capabilities include the ability to display individual categories of

programming such as sports, news, movies, music, etc.
Favorite (Multiple) Channellists provideeasy selection of all orupto two favorite

groups of channels when utilizing the channel up/down buttons.

Alternate audio selection capability provides access to any of the audio channels
associated with each video channel. For example, foreign language audio may be
available for certain programs.

User Locks allow you to limit access to certain features, channels, select the rating

limit of the system and to password-protect this limit with a four-digit PIN
(Personal Identification Number).

Additional Menus provide:
Dish positioning and adjustment.
Diagnostics.

Access to help screens.
Ability to set-up and customize operation.

Review/cancel purchases and services.

# 217095 (CRK91A1) Infrared Remote Control

• 30-button keypad.

• Ergonomicdesign.

• Provides complete satellite receiver operation.

• Large color-coded buttons are clearly identified for easy operation.

• Pre-programmed codes control the primary functions of most television brands

manufactured after 1984 utilizing infrared technology.

DSA100R W Antenna/LNB

• Small 18" parabolic reflector is lightweight and inconspicuous.

• Installation task is similar to "off-air" antenna.

• Designed to be easily mounted to the side of ahome, deck rail, roof or chirrmey that

provides an unobstructed view of the 101oWest longitude position pointing toward
Texas.

Overview 9

The model DS2430RW Deluxe Package includes a DRD203RW satellite receiver,
#217094 (CRK91B 1)remote and a DSA400RW antenna/LNB.

DRD203RW Satellite Receiver

Includes all of the features of the DRD102RW plus:

• Second pair of AN jacks on Satellite Receiver.

• Computer serial port for downloading data.

# 217094 (CRK91B1) Infrared Remote Control
Includes all of the features of the # 217095 remote with the following upgrades:

• 39-button keypad.

• Preprogrammedto controltheprimary functions ofmostmanufacturers' brands of
televisions, VCRs, laserdisc players and cable boxes utilizing infrared technology.

DSA4OOR W Antenna/LNB

Includes all of the features of the DSA200RW with the following upgrades/additions:

• Sheet molded compound (SMC) reflector-- more durable than metal.

• Antenna/LNB developed with twin outputs capable of operating two or more

compatible satellite receivers.

Deluxe

Package

10 OverviewTechnical

Technical

Overview

Uplink

The DSS System transports digital data, video and audio to the customer's home via

a high powered KU-band satellite. The program provider sends its program material

to the uplink site where the signal is digitally encoded. The "uplink" is the portion of
the signal transmitted from the earth to the satellite. The uplink site compresses the
video and audio, encrypts the video and formats the information into data "packets"
that are transmitted. The signal is transmitted to a satellite where it is relayed back to
the earth and decoded by the customer's receiver.

MPEG2 Compression

The video and audio signals are transmitted as digital signals instead of conventional
analog. The amount of data required to code all the video and audio information

would require a transfer rate well into the hundreds ofMbps (Mega-bits per second).
This is too large and impractical a data rate to be processed in a cost effective way with

current hardware. In order to minimize the data transfer rate, the data is compressed

using MPEG2 compression. MPEG (Motion Pictures Expert Group) is an organiza-
tion who has developed a specification for transportation of moving images over

communication data networks. Fundamentally, the system is based on the principle

that images contain a lot of redundancy from one frame of video to another - the
background stays the same for many frames at a time. Compression is accomplished

by predicting motion that occurs from one frame of video to another and transmitting
motion vectors and background information. By coding only the motion and
background difference instead of the entire frame of video information, the effective

video data rate can be reduced from hundreds of Mbps to an average of 3 to 6 Mbps.
This data rate is dynamic and will change depending on the amount of motion

occurring in the video.

In addition to MPEG video compression, MPEG audio compression is also used to
reduce the audio data rate. Audio compression is accomplished by eliminating soft
sounds that are near loud sounds in the fi'equency domain. The compressed audio data

rate can vary from 56 Kbs (Kilo-bits per second) on mono signals to 384 Kbps on
stereo signals.

Data Encryption

To prevent unauthorized signal reception, the video signal is encrypted (scrambled)
at the uplink site. A secure encryption "algorithm" or formula know as the Digital

Encryption Standard (DES) is used to encode the video information. The keys for
decoding the data are transmitted in the data packets. The customer's Access Card

decrypts the keys which allows the receiver to decode the data. When a Access Card
is activated in a receiver for the first time, the serial number of the receiver is encoded
on the Access Card. This prevents the Access Card from activating any other receiver

except the one in which it was initially authorized. The receiver will notfunction with

the Access Card removed.

Data Packets

The program information is completely digital and is transmitted in data "packets."
This concept is very similar to data transferred by a computer over a modem. Five

Technical Overview 11

different types of data packets are Video, Audio, CA, PC compatible serial data and
Program Guide. Video and audio packets contain the visual and audio information of
the program. The CA (Conditional Access) packet contains information that is

addressed to individual receivers. This includes customer E-Mall, Access Card
activation information and which channels the receiver is authorized to decode. PC

compatible serial data packets can contain any form of data the program provider
wants to transmit, such as stock reports or software. The Program Guide maps the

channel numbers to transponders and SCID's (more on this later). It also gives the
customer TV program listing information.

Figure 2 shows a typical uplink configuration for one transponder. In the past, a single
transponder was used for a single satellite channel. With digital signals, more than one

satellite channel can be sent on the same transponder. The example shows three video
channels, five stereo audio channels (one for each video channel plus two extra for

other services such as a second language), and a PC compatible data channel. Audio
and video signals from the program provider are encoded and converted to data
packets. The configurations can vary depending on the type of programming. The
data packets are then multiplexed into serial data and sent to the transmitter.

!

Data

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12 Technical Overview

Each data packet is 147 bytes long. The firsttwo bytes (a byte is made up of 8 bits)
of information contain the SCID and Flags. The SCID (Service Channel ID) is a

unique 12bit number from0to 4095 that uniquely identifies the packet's datachannel.
The Flags are made up of 4 bits used primarily to control whether or not the packet is

encrypted and which key to use. The third byte of information is made up ofa 4 bit
Packet Type indicator and a4 bit Continuity Counter. The Packet Type identifies the

packet as one of four data types. When combined with the SCID, the PacketType
determ'mes how the packet is to be used. TheContinuity Counter increments once for

each Packet Type and SCID. The next 127 bytes of information consists of the
"payload" datawhich isthe actual usable information sentfromthe program provider.

(See figure 3.)

2 BYT_.S 1BYTE

Satellites

I I PAYLON) FORWARDERROR

SCID & FLAGS PACKETTYPE& CORRECTION

CONTINUITYCOUNTER

Figure 3, Data Packet

,=, BYTES I 17 BYTES I

Two high power KU-band satellites provide the DSS signal for the receiver. The
satellites arelocated inageostationary orbitin the "Clarke" belt, 22,247 miles above
the equator. They are positioned less than .5° apartfrom each other with the center
between them at 101° W. longitude. This permits a fixed antenna to be pointed at the

101° slot and receive signals from both satellites. The downlink frequency is in the

K4 part of the KU-band at 12.2 GHz to 12.7 GHz. The total transponder channel
bandwidth is 24 MHz per channel with channel spacing at 14.58 MHz. Each satellite
has sixteen 120 watt transponders. The satellites have a life expectancy of 12

years.(See figure 5.)

Unlike C-band satellites that use horizontal and vertical polarization, the DSS

satellites use circular polarization. The microwave energy is transmitted in a spiral-
like pattern. The direction of rotation determines the type of circular polarization

(Figure 4). In the DSS System, one satellite is configured foronly right-handcircular
polarized transponders and the other is configured for only left-hand circular polar-

ized transponders. This nets 32 total transponders between two sateliites.

RightHandCircularlyPoladzedWave LeftHandCircularlyPoladzedWave

Figure 4, Right-hand and Left-hand Circular Polarization

LONGITUDE

101°

I

Technical Overview 13

UPHNK SITE

DDDDD

OOOOO

TELEPHONEMNE,

PROGRAMPRO_DER

Figure 5, Digital Satellite System

14 Technical Overview

Although there areonly 16 transponders per satellite, the channel capabilities arefar
greater. Using datacompression andmultiplexing, the two satellites workingtogether

have the possibility of carrying over 150 conventional (non-HDTV) audio and video
channels via 32 transponders.

Dish

The"dish" is an 18 inch, slightly oval shaped KU-band antenna. The slight oval shape
is due to the 22.5 °offset feed of the LNB (Low Noise Block converter), figure 6. The

offset feed positions the LNB out of the way so it does not block any surface area of
the dish, preventing attenuation of the incoming microwave signal.

Figure 6, Satellite Dish

0

Technical Overview 15

LNB

The LNB converts the 12.2 GHz to 12.7 GHz downlink signal fi'om the satellites to
the 950 MHz to 1450 MI-Iz signal required by the receiver tuner. Two types of LNB's

are available - dual and single output. The single output LNB has only one RF
connector while the dual output LNB has two, figure 7. The dual output LNB can be

used to feed a second receiver or other form of distribution system. TheBasic package

comes with the single output LNB. The Deluxe package comes with the dual output
LNB.

SINGLE OUTPUT LNB

Figure 7, Single and Dual output LNB's

DUAL OUTPUT LNB

Both types of LNB's can receive both left and fight-hand polarized signals. Polariza-
tion is selected electrically via a DC voltage sent on the center conductor of the cable
from the receiver. Right-hand polarization is selected with +13 volts and left-hand
polarization is selected with +17 volts.

16 Technical Overview

Receiver

Circuitw

The receiver is a complex digital signal processor. The amount and speed of data the
receiver processes rivals even the faster personal computers on the market today. The

information received from the satellite is a digital signal that is decoded and digitally
processed. There are no analog signals to be found except for those exiting the NTSC

video encoder and the audio DAC (Digital to Analog Converter).

The downlink signal from the satellite is downconverted from 12.7 - 12.2 GHz to 950

- 1450 MHz by the LNB (Low Noise Block) converter. The tuner then isolates a single
digitally modulated 24 MHz transponder. The demodulator converts the modulated

data to a digital data stream.

The data is encoded at the transmitter site by a process that enables the decoder to
reassemble the data and verify and correct errors that may have occurred during

transmission. This process is called Forward ErrorCorrection (FEe). The error
corrected data is output to the transport IC via an 8-bit parallel interface.

The transport IC is the heart of the receiver data processing circuitry. Data from the
FEC block is processed by the transport IC and sent to respective audio and video

decoders. The microprocessor communicates with the audio and video decoders

through the transport IC. The access card interface is also processed through the
transport IC.

SATELLITE

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OUT OUT R OUT L OUT

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Figure 8, Receiver Block Diagram

Technical Overview 17

The Access Card receives the encrypted keys for decoding a scrambled channel from
the transport IC. The Access Card deerypts the keys and stores them in a register in
the transport IC. The transport IC uses the keys to decode the data. The Access Card

also handles the tracking and billing for these services

Video data is processed by the MPEG video decoder. This IC decodes the compressed
video data and sends it to the NTSC encoder. The encoder converts the digital video

information into NTSC analog video that is output to the S-Video and standard
composite video output jacks.

Audio data is likewise decoded by the MPEG audio decoder. The decoded 16-bit
stereo audio data is sent to the dual DAC (Digital to Analog Converter) where the left
and right audio channel data are separated and converted back into stereo analog
audio. The audio is output to the left and right audio jacks and is also mixed together
to provide a mono audio source for the RF converter.

The microprocessor receives and decodes IR remote commands and front keyboard

commands. Its program software is contained in the processor ROM (Read Only

Memory). The microprocessor controls the other digital devices of the receiver via

address and data lines. It is responsible for turning on the green LED on the ON/OFF

button.

The modem connects to the customer's phone line and calls the program provider and
transmits the customers programpurchas.es for billing purposes. The modem operates
at 1200 bps and is controlled by the microprocessor. When the modem first attempts

to dial, it sends the first number as touch-tone. If the dial tone continues after the first
number, the modems switches to pulse dialing and redials the entire number. If the

dial tone stops after the first number, the modem continues to dial the rest of the
number as a touch-tone number. The modem also automatically releases the phone

line if the customer picks up another phone on the same extension.

Thereeeivercontainstwodiagnostictestmenus. ThefirsttestisacustomercontroUed Diagnostics
menu that checks the signal, tuning, phone connection and access card. The second

test menu is servicer controlled. It checks the majority of the receiver for problems.

Customer Controlled Diagnostics

The customer controlled test helps the customer during installation or any time the

receiver appears not to function properly.

Signal test:

Tuning test:

Phone test:

Access card test:

Cheeks the value of error bit number and the error rate to determine
if the antenna connections are properly installed.

Checks to insure a transponder can be tuned. Thetestis eousidered
successful and this part of the test is halted if proper tuning occurs

on 1 of the 32 transponders.
The phone test checks for dial tone and performs an internal

loopbaek test.
Sends a message to the access card and cheeks for a valid reply.

18 Technical Overview

The response for all tests will be an "OK" display or an appropriate message
informing the customer the general area of the problem.

To enter the System Test feature:

Select "Options" from the "DSS Main Menu. '"

DSS Main Menu

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Figure 9, Main Menu

Select "Setup" from the "Options" menu.

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Figure 10, Options Menu

Select "'System Test" from the "Setup "'menu.

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Figure 11, Setup Menu

Select "'Test" from the "System Test'" menu.

Technical Overview 19

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Figure 12, System Test Menu

The system test results are displayed automatically wben the test is complete. The
following two screens show whether the receiver passed or failed the test. If the access

card passes the test, the access card ID number will be displayed in the window.

_Teet Results

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OK

Figure 13, System Test Results

Technical Overview

ServicerControlledDiagnostics

The servicer controlled test provides a more in-depth analysis of the receiver for
proper operation. The test pattern checks all possible connections between compo-

nents as a troubleshooting aid. The following information is provided to the servicer:

1. IRD serial number

2. Demodulator vendor & version number

3. Signal Strength

4. ROM checksum results

5. SRAM test results

6. V-Ram test results

7. Telco callback results

8. Verifier Version

9. Access Card Test & Serial Number

10. IRD ROM version

11. EEprom test results

The response for all tests will indicate the test was successful or not successful.

In addition, this menu will allow entry into the phone prefix menu so the installer can
set up a one digit phone prefix.

To Enter the Service -Test Feature:

Simultaneously press the front panel "TV/DSS" and the "DOWN" arrow button.The
following screen will appear.

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l_st l.o_ _sra _t lo pl a _ _ lm

Figure 14, Service Test Menu

The test results are automatically displayed after the test is complete. The servicer
is given the option to exit or run the test again.

IOFF

MESSAGE

Technical Overview 21

A

Figure 15, Front Panel Buttons

Also included in the Service Test Menu are previsions for testing the modem and

setting a single digit prefix number. During the service test, the modem will dial the

phone number that appears in the boxes at the top of the test menu. The phone number

earl be changed by using the "DOWN" arrow keys on the remote control or receiver
to move the cursor past the "Prefix" prompt to the number boxes. Once the boxes are
selected, the number can be entered or changed with the number keys on the remote

or by using the "UP"/DOWN" keys on the remote or the receiver. The prefix can be
changed by selecting "Phone Prefix" on the display and changing the number with the
number keys on the remote control or by using the arrow keys on the remote control

and front panel.

22 Site Survey

SITE

SURVEY

The purpose of the site survey is to plan the installation of the Digital Satellite System.
This planning includes the locations of the dish, receiver, and routing of cables. This
helps to determine the tool and hardware requirements for the installation; plus,

identifies any potential problems.

While performing the site survey, one of the most important things to do is involve the
customer. An installation requires drilling holes and routing cables through their

home. The customer may have specific locations they want this done. Involving them
in the site survey provides you an opportunity to learn what these preferences are. It

also enables you to explain why suggested locations may not work and help them to
select alternative locations.

First Step The site survey starts with the phone call to the customer toarrange the date and time

of the installation. This phone call is your initial contact with the customer and most
likely the only contact before the installation appointment. If possible, try to
determine as much about the installation as you can during this phone call. Ask

questions to help you anticipate the tool and equipment needs for the installation.
These questions should include:

Second Step

• How many televisions will be connected to the system?

• Will an audio system be connected?

• Are there any preferences for dish and receiver locations?

The more of this information you obtain before the installation appointment, the better
your chances of having the right tools and mounting hardware needed to complete the

installation decreasing the installation time.

Another question to ask the customer before the installation appointment is if there are
any codes, covenants, regulations, and restrictions pertaining to the installation of the

DSS dish. Knowing these covenants is the responsibility of the customer, but any
input you can offer may reduce any problems that arise.

The second step of the site survey occurs at the customer's home at the time of the
installation. At this point, the installer and customer should work together to

determine the details of the installation. These details include:

• A location for the dish.

• A dish mounting system (horizontal, vertical, chimney, or pole).

• A route for the cables that run from the dish to the receiver.

• How to Connect the Digital Satellite System to the Customer's Audio/Video

Components.

• Evaluate off-air solution.

37g

MINNEAPOLIS

MN

HOUSTON

Site Survey 23

DISH

ELEVATION

48_

TX

Figure 16, DSS Satellite Elevation

Determine a location for the Dish.

The first step in selecting a mounting site for the dish is to approximate the location
of the DSS satellites in the sky. Then, select mounting site options that have the best

possible view. Finally, select the best mounting location from the possible sites.

To determine the satellite's position in the sky, first determine the side to side
(azimuth) and the up/down (elevation) bearings from your location to the satellites.

These change with different locations across the United States. For example, the
azimuth and elevation for Seattle, Washington are different than those for Syracuse,

New York.

The differences in azimuth and elevation between Seattle and Syracuse are duetothe

DSS satellite's position in the geostationary orbit. As stated earlier, the DSS satellites
are located over the equator at 10I* west longitude. As an installation site moves north
(away from the equator), the elevation of the dish lowers (towards the horizon) to point

it atthe DSS satellites. The azimuth of the dish also changes as you move either east

24 Site Survey

INDIANAPOLIS 202 °
SEATTLE 131o
SYRACUSE 226 g

125 °

SEATTLE

WA

MAGNETIC NORTH

AZIMUTH TO DSS

SATELLITES

101_

80 g

SYRACUSE

NY

I

0o 86g

/

/ INDIANAPOLIS

/ IN

/

101Q

Figure 17, DSS Satellite Azimuth

or west of 101 ° west longitude. For example, Seattle is about 125 ° west longitude;
therefore, a DSS dish must point east (about 131°from magnetic north) to point at the
satellites. Syracuse is about 80 ° west longitude; therefore, a dish must point west
(about 226 ° from magnetic north) to point at the DSS satellites. This may sound
confusing, however, there are several simple methods to determine the azimuth and
elevation bearings to the DSS satellites from the installation site. These methods are

listed in appendix A of this manual.

With the azimuth and elevation known, use a compass and some type of angle finder
to approximate the locations of the satellites for your installation site. To use the

compass, first align the arrow of the compass with magnetic north. With the compass

aligned correctly, draw an imaginary line from the center of the compass to the
azimuth of the satellites. This is the general direction the dish must point. If possible,

pick a landmark in the distance that aligns with this bearing. If not, repeat this
procedure whenever confirming possible locations for the dish.

To determine the elevation to the satellites, use some type of angle finder. An angle

finder is a device that measures angles. A simple angle finder can be made with a
protractor and bubble level. To do this, place the protractor on the level. With the level

horizontal, the angles indicated on the protractor are elevations. There are also special
angle finding devices. These devices are available at most hardware stores. Figure

18 is an example of a typical angle finder. To use this angle finder, place it on a level

or straight edge. Then lift the front of the straight edge until the correct angle (or
elevation) is indicated.

By using both the azimuth and elevation methods discussed previously, it is possible
to view the line-of-sight path to the satellites. To do this, align a straight edge (used
in the elevation procedure) with azimuth bearing. Then, using an angle finder, lift the

Site Survey 25

40 °

PROTRACTOR METHOD

ANGLE FINDER METHOD

Figure 18, Measuring Elevation

26 Site Survey

front of the straight edge to the correct elevation. Sight along the upper edge of the
straight edge to the satellites (see figure 19).

With the azimuth and elevation to the satellites known, select possible mounting sites
for the dish. When selecting these sites, the first and foremost thing is to ensure that
there is a clear and unobstructed view of the satellites. Before installing the dish at a
selected site, check the line-of-sight path to the satellites. Be especially concerned

about:

• Tree growth.

• Foliage.

• New buildings or additions to old buildings.

Each of these items can block or reduce the dish's view of the satellites.

GOOD

UNACCEPTABLE

Figure 19, Confirming A Clear One-of-Sight to DSS Satellites

Selecting a Mounting System for the Dish

There are several different mounting systems for the DSS dish. These include
horizontal, vertical, and special. Use a horizontal mounting system for horizontal
surfaces and vertical for vertical surfaces. Special mounting systems include pole and
chimney mounts. When selecting a mounting system for the dish, consider these

items:

• Safety.

• Line-of-sight path to the satellite.

• Mounting structure.

When following these instructions, take extreme care to avoid contact with overhead
power lines, lights, and power circuits. Also, do not position the dish anywhere

contact with one of these items may occur. When digging holes, be sure and contact
the local utilities and have them locate any underground services.

How to check the line-of-sight path to the satellites from your installation site is
covered earlier in this section. For each mounting system considered, the line-of-sight
path must be checked for obstructions. If there is an obstruction, another mounting

site may need to be considered.

SiteSurvey27

Even though the DSS dish is relatively small, the surface it mounts to is very important.
This surface must be structurally sound and not have an excessive amount of
movement. A structurally sound surface can be the wall of a home, a deck rail, or a

chimney. These surfaces should withstand at least several hundred pounds of force
that the dish may place on it. This force is not constantly placed on the mounting

surface, it is only present when wind pushes on the dish. Keep these forces in mind
whenever installing a dish and selecting a mounting surface and system.

Identify a Route For the Cables that Run from the Dish to Receiver

Another important aspect of the site survey is the route of the LNB cable. This cable
connects the dish to the satellite receiver. The site survey is the opportune time to plan

the path of this cable. Also, if there are no phone jacks in the area of the receiver, plan
the installation of a telephone cable. If possible, select the shortest possible path to the

satellite receiver for each of these cables. Also try to take advantage of crawl, closet,
and attic spaces. Using these spaces to your advantage can reduce the installation time

by preventing the routing of cables through the inside of walls. The goal of any cable
installation is to keep the cables out of sight and as short as possible.

Connecting the Receiver to the Customer's Audio-Video Components

One of the last items of the installation to consider is the connection of the receiver to
the different video and audio components the customer may have. These components
can include VCR's, laser disc players, and audio systems. Explain to the customer the
best method of connecting their components to the receiver. If there are several

28 Site Survey

possibilities, explain them to the customer pointing out the advantages and disadvan-
tages of each. If the customer is unsure of how they would like to connect the receiver,

use your experience to recommend a hookup that will work best for them.

Evaluate Off-Air Solution

Local programming is not available via the DSS satellites. If the customer does not
have an off-air (terrestrial) antenna or cable in the home, you may suggest the

installation of one. If you need assistance in selecting the best antenna for your area,
consult the DSS Accessories and Antenna Components Catalog (publication T-
8743CM).

Third Step

One of the last items to consider during the site survey is whether the different details
of the installation fall within the "basic" installation plan outlined by Thomson

Consumer Electronics. If there are components of the installation that fall outside the

"basic" installation guidelines, additional time and materials may be required. It is

important to discuss any additional charges with the customer before the installation

Thomson Consumer Electronics "basic" installation guidelines

ale:

The dish unit can be mounted on a stable structure of the dwelling - a vertical wall,
chimney, or roof, within a 100-foot cable length of the connected TV. Hardware

necessary to mount the dish must be provided by the installer and included in
"basic" installation price. This includes screws or bolts, grounding hardware, and

an occasional inexpensive Thomson-approved chimney mount.

The installer provides up to 100 feet of Thomson-approved RG-6 coaxial cable
and up to 100 feet of telephone cable.

The satellite receiver should be connected to one TV (and VCR is the VCR is

located at connected TV location).

The antenna is grounded to meet the National Electric Code (NEC) requirements.

The coax cable routed through a normal frame structure or only one layer of

masonry (brick or block).

All cables should be routed to the TV either through an exterior wall or from a
basement or crawl space.

A telephone connection should be installed at the location of the DSS receiver. An

existing phone outlet may be used if within a reasonable distance of the connected
TV and acceptable to the consumer. The installer should assume that most

installations will require a telephone cable hook-up.

• Providing up to 20 minutes of customer education on system operation.

• Estimated time to complete a "basic" installation is 2 hours.

• The "basic" install includes travel up to 25 miles (or 25 minutes in dense metro

areas) for the installation without additional mileage charge to the consumer.

Any installation falling within these guidelines is considered a basic installation and
no additional cost is passed on to the customer. If there are aspects of the installation

that fall outside of these guidelines, additional cost can be quoted to the customer to
cover the additional expense. Some examples of items that increase the cost of an

installation are the installation of a pole mount system or using over 100 feet of cable.
Remember, these costs must be explained to the customer before the installation starts.

If the customer does not want pay the additional costs, another mounting site that falls
within the basic guidelines must be found.

Here are some installation add-ons for which a customer may be charged by the

Installer:

Site Survey 29

• The outdoor antenna unit must be mounted at significant distance from the

dwelling, requiring lengthy underground cabling.

• Multiple masonry walls or a solid concrete wall must be penetrated.

• The satellite antenna unit must be installed at a location which requires more
than 100 feet of coax cable to connect the TV and would require amplification.

• Multiple TVs are to be connected. This would probably require multiple

satellite receivers.

• An off-air (VHF-UHF) antenna is needed to capture local signals.

• Complying with state and local codes for grounding more stringent than the
National Electric Code.

• Fishing cable in the walls.

• Travel distance beyond that included with the "basic" installation.

Make certain the consumer understands the costs of any additional options before

you begin the installation work.

30 Si_Survey

Optional accessories are items that may be required for an installation but not included
in the basic installation guidelines. Therefore, cost of these items can be passed on to
the customer. Some example of optional accessories are:

• 12' AN cables. There may be several types of cables required: stereo audio cables,
video, and S-video.

• Telephone accessories. These accessories include a telephone extension cable
and/or modular telephone connectors (in-line and T).

• Antenna system parts. Included in this category are indoor and outdoor antennas,
in-line signal amplifiers, and signal combiners.

• AC and telephone surge protectors.

The tools required to complete a basic installation include:

• Drill and bits. Depending on the installation site, it may be necessary to use
masonry bits.

• Assorted hand tools. These tools include pliers, wire cutters, hammer, flashlight,
screwdrivers, etc.. These tools should also include coax cable strippers and

crimping tools for the installation of "F' fittings on cable.

• Compass.

• Ladder. The length of this ladder must be enough to reach attics and roof tops as

required for the installation. It is recommended that a fiberglass ladder be used.

• Cleaning equipment. This equipment should be enough to clean the debris

resulting from the installation of the dish. Items in this list include a broom, dust
pan, hand held vacuum cleaner, rags, and some type of cleaner.

Once the site survey is finished and the materials gathered, the installation of the

system can begin. After reading this, it may appear as though the site survey requires
too much time to do. Once you are experienced with doing site surveys, the whole

process should not take over 15 minutes. Once the site survey is finished and the
installation starts, you'll find that the steps taken during the site survey will save you

both work and time.

NOTES

Site Survey 31