In the current fast-paced world, having access to a limitless supply of entertainment content while on the move is necessary, thus the need for a portable satellite TV antenna.
These antennas capture high-frequency signals from a satellite in space and convert them to low-frequency signals to be decoded by a set-top box.
Generally, most people use portable satellite TV antennas in areas where traditional antennas won’t work, including RVs, outdoor activities, and camping trips.
Additionally, the antennas offer weather resistance, wide coverage, and great compatibility with many devices.
But how do satellite TV antennas differ from normal antennas, and how can you boost their signals? For answers to this and more, keep reading.
Table of Contents
- What Are Portable Satellite TV Antennas
- Differences Between A Satellite Dish and Antenna
- Parts of Portable Satellite TV Antenna
- Portable Satellite Dish Materials
- How To Boost A Portable Satellite TV Antenna Signal
- FAQs
- Final Remarks
What Are Portable Satellite TV Antennas
These special antennas capture high-frequency signals from a geostationary satellite and convert them into low-frequency signals.
The low-frequency signal is then deduced into video and audio outputs you see and hear on your television.
Most of the time, these antennas feed into a set-top box that connects to your television.
Thanks to portable satellite TV antennas, you can comfortably watch your favorite TV channel or program while camping or on a long journey.
We like these antennas for their wide coverage and weather resistance, which offers them high durability you will never find in other products.
Differences Between A Satellite Dish and Antenna
(A satellite dish on top of a van)
With a satellite dish, the broadcast is sent to a satellite in space and then back to a satellite dish on the Earth’s surface.
However, a normal antenna gets signals from a tower or radio mast on the Earth’s surface.
Therefore, the quality of your television signal for the normal antenna varies depending on your location from the radio mast or transmission tower.
For example, if you live in a rural area, expect to receive poor-quality signals and pictures on your TV.
Conversely, a satellite dish offers high-quality signals with more channels than a normal antenna.
And regardless of location (whether remote or urban setting), you will still receive strong internet or high-quality pictures on your TV.
Parts of Portable Satellite TV Antenna
(A portable satellite TV antenna)
Although we have several satellite TV antenna types, the principle behind their operation remains the same.
They receive signals from a satellite orbiting the Earth and project them onto the LNB, relaying them to a modem or set-top box.
But generally, a satellite antenna has the following features and parts:
Parabolic Reflector
The satellite antenna’s big (highly visible) round part reflects high-frequency signals onto the LNB.
The parabolic reflector is usually elliptical or circular, but don’t be surprised if you meet other shapes.
Dish Size
The type of service and signal strength informs the satellite dish size you should acquire.
For instance, if you receive weaker signals, you should install a large-sized antenna to reflect more signals to the LNB.
Surprisingly, a dish size of less than one meter is all you need to achieve high-quality signal reception.
The Low Noise Block (LNB)
This is a satellite dish component that captures all the signals that reflect from the parabolic reflector.
Although we have many LNB types, the most common is the LNBf which has an in-built feedhorn linking to an F coaxial connector.
The LNB has some critical elements, like the LNB feed arm, which links directly to the LNB through an LNB collar.
Portable Satellite Dish Materials
(A yellow rotating satellite dish antenna)
Portable satellite dishes are designed from different materials, each presenting unique pros and cons.
This section highlights these materials:
Steel dishes: Most satellite dishes have painted steel, making them stronger.
Moreover, steel is somehow inexpensive and thus cheaper to manufacture and buy.
However, steel corrodes quickly, presenting a shorter lifespan than other antenna materials.
Aluminum dishes: Another common option is aluminum, which is more expensive than steel dishes.
Fortunately, aluminum is lightweight and doesn’t rust quickly, thus having a longer lifespan.
Fiberglass dishes: These dishes are fiber reinforced with fabric (plastic).
Since fiberglass doesn’t no have corrosive materials, you don’t have to worry about cases of rust or weather-related challenges.
However, fiberglass dishes aren’t as strong as steel or aluminum and come at a higher price.
How To Boost A Portable Satellite TV Antenna Signal
(A mobile satellite antenna waiting for connection)
Boosting your portable satellite TV antenna signal is a positive step to high-quality signal reception.
This section highlights the steps you must take to boost the signal.
Antenna Position
Antenna positioning is everything and stands between a high and poor-quality signal.
Generally, you must install the antenna in an open area having a clear line of sight to the satellite.
Just avoid any obstruction, including trees or buildings that might interfere with the signal.
Moreover, ensure the antenna is at a higher point with the right elevation angle for high-quality reception.
Use A Signal Amplifier
Consider a signal booster and amplifier compatible with your portable satellite TV antenna.
Generally, signal boosters and amplifiers amplify weak signals, thus providing high-quality pictures on your television.
Quality Cables
Research shows that a low-quality cable causes the signal strength/quality to reduce, thus reducing the video and audio quality.
Therefore, use a high-quality coaxial cable to link your television and portable antenna.
Funny enough, using coaxial cables with thicker shieldings limits signal interference and maintains signal integrity.
Weather Conditions
The signal strength reduces when you expose your antenna to extreme weather conditions like storms and snow.
Therefore, when weather conditions are unfriendly, position the antenna appropriately for optimal signal reception.
Expert Installation
Sometimes, it pays just to leave everything in the hands of a professional electrician.
Professionals are better at analyzing the specific location, choosing the best satellite antenna, and facilitating proper installation for effective performance.
FAQs
Can you access satellite TV without a satellite?
No! You can’t access satellite television without a satellite.
Usually, satellite television operates due to signals that land on a satellite dish from a geostationary satellite orbiting around the Earth.
Upon capturing signals from a satellite, the satellite dish sends them to the set-top box, which decodes them to produce video or audio content.
Can a satellite dish be connected directly to your television?
No! You can’t just directly connect a satellite dish to your TV.
A satellite dish is simply an intermediary between a satellite in space and a decoder (set-top box) which decodes the signals to generate video and audio outputs.
A decoder is necessary to convert the signals to moving pictures on your television screen.
What blocks a portable satellite TV antenna signal?
The following are factors that might block your portable satellite antenna signals:
- First, physical obstructions like trees, mountains, and tall buildings block the signals.
- Secondly, antenna signals face blockage from weather conditions like rain and wind.
- Thirdly, electromagnetic interference from power lines or electronic devices affects the satellite antenna signals.
- Moreover, poor antenna positioning and a longer distance to the satellite block antenna signals.
Final Remarks
Without a portable satellite television antenna, accessing the internet or television services from a satellite in space would be impossible.
Generally, a satellite antenna captures high-frequency signals and converts them into low-frequency signals.
It then transmits them to a decoder that decodes the signals to video or audio output.
Experts recommend adjusting the antenna position, using signal amplifiers/high-quality cables, and expert installation, to boost the signal.
