Why do you need a satellite converter? Converters for satellite dishes

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To begin with, we will select this converter for the signal that comes from the selected satellite. Or rather, from its selected transponders.

For clarity, let’s take another look at the table of transponders for the Express AM 22 53.0°E satellite and select the converter necessary to receive the signal.

To determine the type of converter, we need two parameters from this table. This is the frequency and the type of polarization. I have marked the required columns in green.

As can be seen from our table, the transponder frequency is in the range of 10974 ... 11481 MHz (megahertz). We look at the table below of the “C and Ku” ranges and determine which of these ranges the frequency of the selected channels belongs to.

The selected frequency spectrum 10974 ... 11481 MHz belongs to the Ku band standard, from this we determine that the converter we choose must support exactly this frequency range.

Quite often, at least at the time of writing this topic (since in the C band the signal comes mainly from old satellites, and it is used less and less), both of these frequency ranges may be present in the transponder tables of one satellite. That is, both the range is C and the range is Ku.

In this case, you will have to choose which transponders suit you best. This means, accordingly, the converter will be either “Ku” range, or “C”. If you want to receive a signal from all transponders, then in this case you need to purchase a two-band converter. Which means satellite antenna should have a diameter of 1.5... meters (since, for the C-band, an antenna of a larger diameter is needed). As a rule, dual-band satellite converters are much more expensive.

Now, regarding polarization. According to the table, we see that on the Express AM 22 53.0°E satellite there are two types of polarization. These are linear vertical (V - Vertical), and linear horizontal (H - Horisontal).

Both of these polarizations are combined in one type of converter - a universal linear converter. With it, we will be able to receive a signal from almost all transponders from this table.

If you come across transponders with circular polarization, then you need to use a circular converter. Or another way to call it a circular universal converter (since it also uses two types of polarization), which supports circular right (R - Right) and circular left (L - Leftl) polarization.

In the case when you want to receive a signal with both linear and circular polarization, you will also need a converter that supports both of these polarizations. As a rule, such a converter has two pairs of independent outputs, from which signals received in linear and circular polarizations are taken separately. To connect such a converter, with two outputs, to one input of a satellite receiver, you will need to use a special DiSEqC switch, which will connect your receiver to one output of the converter, then to the other ().

DiSEqC switch - Serves for remote switching between different receiving devices. For example, between two, three... (etc.) satellite antennas, converters, as well as a converter with two or more outputs.

At first, when I still had little experience, I purchased a converter not with linear polarization, but with circular polarization, that is, a circular universal converter (Circular Single LNB). With such a converter, there could be no question of receiving a signal with linear polarization. At the time I installed satellite dish, there were almost no such transponders (meaning open Russian-language ones, with circular polarization), well, perhaps “NTV+”, but now, at the moment (i.e. at the time of writing this page), it was already working with all its might quite popular, the Russian project "Tricolor TV", broadcasting several program packages from one transponder (one free, and paid START and NIGHT), in this case this converter, Ku band, with circular polarization, would be suitable. In any case, at that time, I needed a universal linear player. On top of that, my receiver did not support the encodings in which channels with circular polarization were transmitted.

Subsequently, I had to buy a universal converter, with linear polarization, capable of receiving the transponders I needed at that time.

As I already mentioned, by installing satellite dish, I not only wanted to watch the satellite TV channels themselves through the receiver, but also, by installing a DVB card in my computer, have access to the satellite Internet, thereby making the most of the opportunities that now presented themselves.

Therefore, when using satellite dish, I needed to output from the converter, not one signal, but two. To do this, I had to purchase a special converter with two independent outputs, designed to receive signals with linear (V,H) polarization. It consists of two identical converters, in one housing, with one irradiator (Photo 7).

Photo 7 Satellite converter with two independent outputs.

In principle, it was possible to go another simpler way, leaving antenna converter with one output. For such cases, there is a special splitter, the so-called Splitter (Photo 8). But this method has its pros and cons. And here's what.

Photo 8 Splitter - signal splitter.

The advantage of such a splitter would be: firstly, the relatively low price of such an upgrade (at the time of writing this page), about 80 - 150 rubles, secondly, there is no need to change the converter, risking losing the settings satellite dish, and thirdly, simple manipulations during installation.

Now, as for the shortcomings. To figure this out, you need to know a little about the operating principle of the converter itself, or rather, the circuit diagram of its power supply directly in this case.

Converter power supply

Imagine some kind of electronic device, for example, a pocket receiver. Without what will it not work, even if the entire electronic circuit is working? The answer here suggests itself. Of course, if we don't put batteries in it. That is, we will not provide it with normal power supply. The converter is also no exception, like any electronic device, it also needs power. Now imagine that in the receiver, you want to switch from one radio station to another, what will you do in this case... of course, we’ll turn the tuning knob or use the toggle switch to switch to another range. What about the converter? After all, you can’t climb onto a satellite dish to twist or switch anything.

So the developers came up with the idea of ​​controlling the converter remotely, using the same cable through which the satellite signal travels. So, in order to control the switching of the type of polarization, the converter is supplied with power of different voltages, as if in the example of a pocket receiver (imagine if it has neither a tuning knob nor a range switch), when switching from one radio station to another we will change the number of batteries in the power compartment. Let's say one radio station will be broadcast if the receiver has four batteries, and another if there are six.

In a converter with linear polarization, if vertical (V) polarization is used, then a power equal to 13...14 volts is supplied to it, and if horizontal (H), then 18...19 volts. Here I think the principle is clear to you.

Now, about the main disadvantage of using one converter for two receiving devices through a splitter, so to speak, what is its essence.

The point here is that the satellite converter can only be powered by one voltage at a time. That is, either 14 volts or 18 volts. This means that the polarization can only be either vertical (V) or horizontal (H). And this is what we get. If on a satellite receiver you will watch a TV channel broadcast in vertical polarization, then on a computer with a DVB card (or on a second receiver), you can simultaneously use vertical polarization, although the TV channel may be different.

This disadvantage becomes very significant if one satellite antenna, with a converter (which has one output), through a splitter, used for two apartments. One neighbor wants to watch football, another wants to watch whatever movie, but the polarizations of these channels are different (it’s not far from a quarrel).

The advantage of a converter with two independent outputs is that it does not matter which output has which polarization (in this case, linear “V” and “H” are meant). The disadvantages include the rather greater weight than a converter with one output, and of course the higher price. At that time, it cost me 980 rubles (whereas for a converter with one output, I then spent 270 rubles).

So, if you have two satellite receivers, then in this case it is better to use just such a dual converter.

Well, all that remains is to attach our converter to its holder, and of course to the “L-shaped bracket” of the suspension structure itself satellite dish. Below you can see the option I gave for assembling the satellite converter mount by left-clicking on the image (Photo 9).

Photo 9 Converter on a holder satellite dish.

Parameters of satellite converters

The photographs below (Photo 1 and Photo 2) show two Ku-band satellite converters, with circular and linear polarization. As you probably noticed, they are no different in appearance, except for the inscriptions on their markings. These converters are designed for installation specifically on an offset press. satellite dish. In view of the fact that offset and direct-focus antennas have a significant difference in the method of attaching the converter feeds, the converters themselves are divided into those used for offset and those used for direct-focus satellite dishes.

Converters for installations to offset satellite dish

Now, let's determine by what criteria the type of satellite converter is determined. "Photo 3" shows the marking location for this model.

Photo 3 Place of marking of the satellite converter (for this model).

For greater clarity, let’s enlarge the image of the converter markings (Photos 4 and 5).

Judging by the logo, the converter was manufactured by a fairly popular satellite equipment manufacturer at the time, Golden Interstar.

Here are four main criteria that I try to pay attention to when choosing a satellite converter:

The first two determine the parameters of the signal that will be received from the selected satellite. The third and fourth determine the quality indicators of the satellite converter.

1. Type of polarization - Circular (right and left), and Linear (vertical and horizontal).
2. Frequency range - C or Ku.
3. Noise figure - the higher this figure, the lower the quality of the received signal.
4. Gain coefficient - the higher this coefficient, the more the received signal will be amplified (it should be taken into account that both the signal itself and the noise are amplified).

Below in the image of the converter markings (Photo 6 and Photo 7), I have highlighted some values ​​in different colors.

1. CIRCULAR - circular polarization. UNIVERSAL - linear universal polarization.

2. N.F. - 0.2 dB - noise figure (measured in decibels). The lower the noise figure, the better the signal will be. There are converters with a high noise figure, for example 0.3 dB (or the completely outdated 0.6 dB), they are usually cheaper, but... I would not skimp on this parameter (tested by practice).

Note: The noise of C-band satellite converters is measured not in decibels, as in Ku-band converters, but in degrees Kelvin (for example, noise figure 10K).

3. 11.7-12.50 GHz - the frequency range to which this satellite converter belongs. In this case there will be a Ku-band.

Note: The manufacturer decided not to indicate such a parameter as “gain” on the converter labeling.

As you can see, not all parameters are indicated on the converter markings on its body. Therefore, when purchasing it, look not only at the tag, but also at the markings indicated on the packaging box (Photos 8 and 9), or on the passport. For more detailed information, using the example of a satellite converter with two independent outputs from Golden Interstar, left-click on the image.

(marking of satellite converters)

1. Marking of the satellite converter "Golden Interstar" linear polarization with two outputs.

2. Marking of the satellite converter "Golden Interstar" of circular polarization.

We will need the remaining parameters when setting up the satellite receiver (receiver), where I will continue discussing converters in more detail.

Now, install to satellite dish the converter you have chosen, and it’s time to stop at choosing a satellite receiver (receiver), that is, which model you want to use specifically for your requirements.

Few people know: on October 4, the first Simple Satellite came off a carrier that differed little from an intercontinental ballistic missile. The new product was a derivative of a powerful weapon, with the help of which N. Khrushchev wanted to show Kuzkin his mother to the enemies of socialism. The Americans were frightened by Gagarin's flight and immediately sent an expedition to stake out the Moon, where alien bases are located on the far side. Jokes aside, the arms race went far, soon space became crammed with spy aircraft. To prevent the satellites from interfering with each other’s work, it was decided to introduce uniform standards based on territoriality and purpose. Today we will look at how converters for satellite dishes support the requirements of the standards, and why this is needed.

Frequency division of converters

The year 1977 was marked by the meeting of an international conference that adopted rules for systematizing satellite activity. Naturally, the procedure was preceded by numerous studies by the participants. The passage of waves of different lengths into the atmosphere was studied. Just kidding, punch through the air to the soil from space! Geostationary satellites do not hover so low above the Earth. Why do they float? The earth rotates tirelessly, to compensate for the movement, the satellite has to move after the orbit. The speed is enormous, because in 24 hours it must make a full revolution.

The radius of the Earth is approximately 6370 km. The shape of the planet is not round, not even elliptical. Experts say: it looks more like a pear, tapering towards the North Pole; it simply lacks a suitable body of geometry. It is believed that the shape of the earth is the geoid. Now we will give the value of the orbital radius; understand, the counting is carried out from the conditional center of the earth, located at the intersection of the equatorial plane and the axis connecting both geographical poles. The planet's center of mass is located in a different place; geographic poles should not be confused with magnetic poles (indicated by a compass).

In order for the satellite to begin to rotate around the Earth, it is necessary to inform the object of the First Cosmic Velocity. The device must move in orbit, working out the angular velocity of the planet’s rotation. Make one revolution every 24 hours (23 hours 56 minutes). Smart heads have calculated: the orbital radius should be 42,160 km at an altitude above sea level of about 35,790 km. Because the Earth rotates on an axis through the poles, the only orbit possible is geostationary satellites. Located strictly above the equator. To make a satellite in another orbit immobilized relative to the Earth, one will have to constantly make great efforts and spend a host of resources.

This does not mean that spacecraft hanging above the equator at an altitude of 35,790 km are deprived of human attention. Special stations constantly monitor the position and orientation of satellites, making adjustments to the movement if necessary. The corrections are so small that the fuel is enough for the spacecraft to operate for many years. Now we know why the plates of the Northern Hemisphere look south. Not strictly along the meridian, but in the direction of the equator.

Since the prime meridian passes through the axis of the passage instrument of the Greenwich Observatory, located in Great Britain, Russia lies in the Eastern Hemisphere. The list of satellites broadcasting in this space is given by Wikipedia. Not everyone will be visible from any point on the earth’s surface at the same time; choose your provider carefully. Otherwise, you won't be able to watch TV.

Why do you need a converter for a satellite dish?

So, a satellite has been selected, visible above the horizon at the antenna installation point, it’s time to watch TV. The Commission, which met in 1977, divided the broadcast bands into sub-bands. Here is a partial list:

1. L: 1.4 - 1.7 GHz.
2. S: 1.9 - 2.7 GHz.
3. C: 3.4 - 7 GHz.
4. X: 7.25 - 8.4 GHz.
5. Ku: 10.7 - 14.8 GHz.
6. Ka: 15.4 - 30.2 GHz.
7. K: 84 - 86 GHz.

Some frequencies are used by the military. Television broadcasts use the C and Ku bands, and in Europe the latter is used predominantly; in Russia we will find both. Therefore, the first thing we will say about satellite antenna converters is that they come in different ranges. Concerns geometric dimensions. It should be noted: the plates of different ranges do not have the same diameter (ideal). The wavelength is shorter (higher frequency), the dimensions of the satellite dish are more modest. Caused by the peculiarities of focusing electromagnetic waves by paraboloids (plate shape).

Stores sell a complete set: a satellite dish plus a converter; there are many who like to embrace the immensity and try to place two inhomogeneous devices for receiving radio waves side by side. Let us briefly describe the reason. There are two satellites hanging, one broadcasts in the C band, the other - Ku. Using the experience of using a toroidal antenna, amateurs place two converters in the desired way so that each receives a signal from one point in the sky, located the mentioned spacecraft.

The plate is heading towards the equator. The criterion is the maximum satellite signal at the output. Each converter is adjusted as needed. Move along the guide relative to the plate until reliable reception is achieved. If the angle of linear polarization does not match (NTV by), the satellite antenna converter is rotated properly. For circular polarization, the orientation of the converter relative to its own axis does not matter.

To carry out operations, special devices (Satellite Finder) are used to record the dish signal and evaluate reception. The received information from both converters is summed up by matching devices and fed to the detector input. The screen displays a table of satellites; you can obtain information on the received signal of each. If necessary, the database is replenished with its own settings.

A converter for a satellite dish is a device for receiving an electromagnetic signal emitted by a satellite. The plate will serve the purpose of focusing the waves at the converter input. The maximum amplitude of the electromagnetic field is reached in this place. Installing two converters for a satellite dish on one dish is based on the fact that rays coming from the same direction are collected by the focal plane. The converter for the satellite dish looks directly at the center of the dish, contained in the said plane. What if one spacecraft broadcasts on different frequencies? The shelves are crowded with an abundance of combined converters of both ranges.

When tuning your antenna to more than one satellite, keep more than just frequencies in mind. We mentioned in passing above: is the polarization of the signal circular or linear, but how is this fact taken into account by the converter side? Simply brilliant. The difference is limited to a small design detail.

Design of satellite antenna converters

Any converter, regardless of frequency or polarization type, is characterized by a similar design. Here are the main details:

• a piece of round waveguide, one end is tightly sealed, the other will serve to receive radio waves;
• bell of the open end of the waveguide to improve directivity properties and match all frequencies;
• an electronic unit through whose antennas the signal is received.

The converter is represented by a piece of pipe equipped with a socket and a small metal box at the bottom, tightly attached. Antennas are pins protruding deep into the waveguide. The structure is covered with plastic, there is a round lid in front, tightly pressed onto the socket. Now polarization.

It turns out that the satellite antenna converter device always accepts only linear polarization. If the satellite emits circular radiation, the waveguide is supplemented with a plastic plate at an angle of 45 degrees to the pipe axis. Depolarization is achieved. Hobbyists noticed a small detail and began to modify the design according to their needs. The satellite antenna converter is configured for the type of polarization by installing/removing the dielectric plate. Can be made from a plastic card.

It becomes possible to use converters in toroidal antennas. The plate is simply tilted 45 degrees in the other direction (reflection changes the circular polarization to the opposite one). To open the sealed plastic lid, boil it with boiling water, and then attempt to remove it. The product can be put back on without any problems. Before checking the satellite dish converter for functionality, take the trouble to check the installation angle with an ordinary protractor. If the outcome is successful, we will secure the result of the work with a small amount of sealant that has adhesion to plastic and metal.

Select the type of product you are interested in from the list:

Satellite converter(English low-noise block converter - literally low-noise monoblock converter) - a receiving device that combines a preamplifier of the LNA (Low-Noise Amplifier) ​​signal received from the satellite and a downconverter (Downconverter), also known as a local oscillator (stabilized source of high frequency, producing a sinusoidal signal), which serves to convert the frequency of the electromagnetic wave Ku (10700-12750 MHz) or C-band (3400-4200 MHz) into an intermediate frequency (from 950 to 2150 MHz), called L-band, for the purpose of transmission with minimal losses along the coaxial cable to the consumer. The converter is installed in the focal center of the satellite dish (on a remote bracket).

Principle of operation

Electromagnetic oscillations of satellite signal frequencies experience very strong attenuation in cable lines. That is why in the converter not only amplification of oscillations occurs, but also frequency conversion. The input frequency is converted by subtracting (or adding) the local oscillator frequency. For each range, the converter uses its own local oscillator.

For C-band(3400-4200 MHz) one local oscillator with a frequency of 5150 MHz or 5750 MHz is used. Since the width of the Ku-band (12750 - 10700 = 2050 MHz) does not allow it to be simultaneously converted to intermediate frequency, since the width L-band significantly less (2150-950 = 1200 MHz), the Ku-band was conditionally divided into sub-bands:

• Ku-FSS (Fixed Satellite Services, 10.7-11.7 GHz) is usually called “low” - “Low”;
• Ku-DBS (Direct Broadcast Services, 11.7-12.5 GHz) received the designation “upper” - “High”;
• Ku-BSS (Broadcast Satellite Services, 12.5-12.75 GHz) - Telecom subband.

Modern, so-called “universal” converters, which allow you to receive the entire Ku-band, have two local oscillators 9750 MHz and 10600 MHz. Single-heterodyne converters of circular polarization are also widely used. the local oscillator frequency is 10750. They are used to receive signals from NTV+ and Tricolor TV operators. Switching between local oscillators is carried out using a 22 kHz tone signal coming from the control device (satellite television receiver - receiver) depending on the received subband.

Also, modern converters can work with different signal polarizations. Typically this is: linear (horizontal, vertical) or circular (left, right) polarization. Switching is carried out by changing the converter supply voltage - 13 or 18 Volts.

An important characteristic of the converter is noise factor(measured in dB), since when amplifying the useful signal, the converter introduces its own noise. Noise figure (NR) shows how much the signal-to-noise ratio will deteriorate after amplification and frequency transfer. CN determines the sensitivity of the converter - the threshold value of the minimum level of the useful signal, below which the converter will no longer be able to register this signal due to its own noise. The lower the CS value, the better. Good noise levels for cheap converters are 0.1-0.5 dB. In fact, noise factors indicated by manufacturers are always underestimated, due to marketing tricks. “Honest” noise reduction values ​​are indicated on expensive (from $500) synthesizer (PLL) converters and cannot be better than 3-5 dB.

Satellite broadcasts are transmitted by transmitting waves at very short centimeter frequencies. For this purpose, two levels are used: Ku-band (from 10.7 to 12.75 GHz), C-band (3.5-4.2 GHz). At such values, the electromagnetic wave, which has the ability to travel more than 35 thousand kilometers from the satellite to the home antenna, instantly fades away in the cable. It is for the intermediate, lower indicator that satellite converters are used. According to international standards, the spectrum of this frequency is in the range of 900-2150 MHz. These frequencies are then supplied via a special cable to the microwave input of the receiver.

General operating principle

To reduce the received frequency spectrum, a pair of local oscillators with stabilizers for the high-frequency source are built into the converter. The input indicator is reduced by subtracting the local oscillator frequency from it.

Another nuance is that the signal arrives with low fading power. This is unacceptable in receiving paths. In this regard, the second important function of satellite converters is amplification of received pulses. It is worth noting that the device accumulates not only the useful signal, but also incoming parallel noise. The device also adds its own background, like any other similar device. In the English interpretation, converters are designated as Low Noise Block (LNB), which emphasizes the feature of any device of this type in terms of low noise level.

Device and equipment

In the receiving part between the antenna and the satellite TV converter there are two more elements - a polarizer and an irradiator. All parts are mounted in a single structure and are located at the focal point of the antenna device. The purpose of the feed is to more thoroughly utilize the mirror surface and maintain the maximum gain of the antenna gain. The polarizer serves as a setting for selecting the required type of polarization.

The configuration of the devices in question may be as follows:

• Release of converters separately.
• Models with built-in polarizer.
• A design that combines an offset irradiator and a polarizer.

In the first version, the satellite converter ends with a rectangular flange, the second model with a round element, and the third version with an irradiator.

When choosing a feed, you need to take into account its shape, which should fit the joints of the antenna used. In addition, you should pay attention to the offset or direct focus type of the receiving element, as well as the ratio of the focal length to the antenna diameter. For offset models, an indicator from 0.6 to 0.8 is suitable, and for direct focus models it should be 0.3-0.5. The best option would be to purchase an antenna complete with a feeder, which will guarantee their compatibility one hundred percent.

Criterias of choice

The choice of satellite dish converter is influenced by several factors. The main one is the frequency range that is planned to be used. European satellites primarily broadcast in the Ku band. Some Russian companies operate on the same frequencies.

The second type of device is a C-band converter. These frequencies are aimed at professional reception. Some models are available with combined type converters. There are plenty of models on the market that aggregate Ku-bands. It should be noted that the width of this indicator is 2.055 GHz. It does not make it possible to synchronously convert the signal to an intermediate frequency. In this regard, it is divided into three streams (GHz):

1. FSS - 10.7 - 11.8.
2. DBS - 11.8 - 12.5.
3. Telecom - 12.5 - 12.75.

Satellite converters of the second and third bands are focused on receiving certain packets.

Universal modifications

Most of the converters produced are aggregated with the Ku type band. They are equipped with two local oscillators that convert the upper and lower ranges. The elements are switched by means of a signal that is broadcast from the receiver via a cable that serves to receive intermediate frequency from the converter.

Modern devices, compared to their predecessors, have a universal design; switching ranges in them is carried out using a tone signal. A universal circular satellite converter differs in the number of signals used to switch bands and polarization.

Local oscillator performance in such devices ranges from 9.75 to 10.6 GHz. This design greatly simplifies setting up the receiver, up to automatic configuration after selecting the appropriate menu item.

Satellite converters for Tricolor

For those wishing to take both ranges at once, we can recommend several options. It is realistic to install a pair of converters on the antenna with its own polarizer and feed. In this case, one of the irradiators will move slightly out of focus, which will reduce the directional coefficient. This path is considered quite troublesome.

The second option is to purchase a C/Ku rotor type device containing both band feeds, bifurcating the incoming signal stream. Such elements are equipped with electromechanical type polarizers. This design simplifies the installation process, but has a number of disadvantages. Firstly, there are noticeable losses in Ku-band pulse power. Secondly, there are frequent breakdowns of the moving parts of the rotor, especially at sub-zero temperatures.

Finally, the third option is considered the simplest. You just need to install a combined converter, which has not yet gained much popularity.

Polarizer

This device allows for more efficient use of the frequency range of transmitted waves, which doubles the number of broadcast programs. By adjusting the frequency of the desired channel, the required polarization is synchronously set. For example, a linear satellite converter produces vertical and horizontal waves when polarized. The circular analogue generates right and left circular pulses.

The polarizer filters the waves and passes only pulses of one selected polarity to the converter. It is worth noting that Russian satellites have a predominantly circular action, while their European counterparts have a linear system. To reliably receive circular waves, another element is mounted - a depolarizer, which transforms the circular polarity into a linear direction.

The discreteness of polarization changes is another parameter that distinguishes polarizers. In universal models, the plane discretely changes by 90 degrees. There are also electromagnetic devices that smoothly change the plane of polarization and options with mechanical movement of the probe. Due to the presence of moving parts, electromechanical modifications are less reliable and require three control pulses from the receiver, unlike magnetic analogues, which require two signals.

Phase modulation

With the advent of digital packages such as Tricolor and NTV Plus, the European reception scheme based on the use of a polar antenna and a universal converter gained popularity. This is due to the high quality of the signal and the digital method of broadcasting most programs. Phase modulation is very sensitive to transformations, which can lead to failures when using a magnetic polarizer. In addition, it requires the use of certain materials for the depolarizer plate. The components used are dielectric grades designed to work with microwave pulses.

If you decide to mount a magnetic polarizer, you will need to additionally purchase a converter with a rectangular flange and an irradiator. When distributing the signal to several apartments, it is optimal to use a satellite circular converter (2 outputs or 4 outputs). They are usually equipped with a built-in polarizer (voltage - 13-18 V). Based on the type of output pulses, such devices are divided into options with one or two pairs of identical outputs with independent switching of polarization and ranges. Such devices are suitable for connecting 2-4 apartments. The second type - with outputs output by vertical and horizontal polarization plus double division of ranges with 4 outputs. These devices are designed for a larger number of subscribers.

Two-pin converters

This type of device is convenient to use for those who plan to limit themselves to receiving the upper or lower range. With this scheme, one input of the receiver receives a horizontal type pulse, and the second receives a vertical signal. Analogues of this modification with four outputs are used in cable networks or for organizing small collective reception. In the second case, reception from the converter outputs is carried out through switchers for subsequent distribution to subscribers.

In shared use schemes, higher standards are imposed on the signal amplification factor. This value is measured in decibels, its permissible value varies between 50-70 dB.

Today we will look at:

A satellite converter is a special device necessary to reduce the frequency of electromagnetic waves that are transmitted by satellite broadcast in two bands: Ku band (107 - 1275 GHz) and C band (35 - 42 GHz). The converter for the satellite dish, in turn, lowers the spectrum of these frequencies to 900 - 2100 MHz, which is enough not to be scattered in the cable. Today in this article we will talk about what you need to pay attention to when you choose a converter for satellite TV, as well as how to choose the right one and how to check this device for its further correct operation.

Converter selection

Choosing a device for converting signals into low frequencies is one of the most important things when installing a satellite dish. There are many factors to consider, many of which are not entirely obvious and may not be understood. However, in order to make the choice of a converter for a satellite dish more correct, we have prepared several sections for you, each of which discussed one or another aspect that should be paid attention to.

Range support

When choosing a device, you always need to pay attention to several factors, the main one being the frequency range used. As we said earlier, there are two types of bands that can be used for broadcasting - these are the Ku and C bands.

European-made satellites typically transmit Ku waves. Russian satellites, in turn, can broadcast both in the Ku-band and in the C-band. Based on this, you should decide before purchasing what type of satellite converter you want to purchase. As observations show, there are plenty of devices on the market capable of working with the Ku-band and they are the most popular, although there are devices of mixed types. If you need an example of this, go to any online store and see for yourself.

Signal polarization

If we take converters that work with the Ku band, then we also need to take into account the type of LNB (it can be linear or circular). LNB is a special device that is mounted in front of a satellite dish and amplifies incoming signals. If we don’t go into detail about the differences between linear and circular amplifiers, we’ll tell you right away that by purchasing a universal converter for a satellite dish, you will receive a linear LNB, which can be made circular at any time.

For the curious, let’s say that a circular satellite converter differs from a linear converter in that they work with different polarizations, of which there are two types:

• circular;
• linear.

Different operators use different polarization, therefore, which converter to choose (satellite circular or linear) is up to you to decide, adapting to the operator. However, as we said earlier, universal converters can easily solve this problem. Also, such devices are perfect for those who are connected to several operators at the same time, which use different polarization.

Noise figure and noise temperature

If you have your eye on a satellite converter that works with Ku-type waves, then you need to pay attention to the noise figure, which reflects the minimum value of the satellite signal reception level. Accordingly, the higher this value, the better.

For converters that work with C-waves, an indicator such as noise temperature is taken into account. Here everything is a little opposite: the lower the noise temperature value, the better the satellite TV converter’s ability to receive incoming signals. The optimal noise temperature for today is considered to be 15 K.

In addition to the above, you should pay attention to the number of outputs of the converter, because you can easily purchase a satellite converter with 2 outputs in case you need more outputs. There are devices with 1, 2, 4 and 8 independent outputs. In principle, you can always purchase a device with eight outputs, but you may not use all of them, which will only lead to a waste of money. The main principle for choosing the number of outputs is that their number should be equal to the number of TVs in the house.

Device setup

Setting up the converter always begins with the correct installation of the plate itself. Understanding how to do this is not difficult. Another thing is to do all this in practice:

When you achieve an acceptable antenna angle, you can proceed to adjusting the satellite TV converter itself to strengthen the incoming signal:

• if you rotate the satellite converter in one direction or another, you can strengthen the incoming signal;
• It is not recommended to move the device to the mirror, since changing the angle of adjustment will have to be done first.

When you receive the highest quality satellite signal, secure the dish and satellite antenna converter more firmly and begin checking the quality of television broadcasting. The next step is software configuration, which will be discussed later.

How to check a satellite converter

You can check the correct installation of the satellite TV converter by trying to find a channel:

Using the instructions described in the article, you can set up the converter for both NTV and MTS yourself. However, do not forget that, despite the fact that in words everything may look very simple, in reality everything can turn out to be much more complicated. And to make it easier for you in your endeavors, we are ready to answer all your questions on this topic in the comments below.

If you are not confident in your actions and think that your actions can somehow harm the final state of the entire structure, then we strongly recommend that you still seek help from specialists who will help you solve this problem.