Requesting a little alignment assistance...

[wescopc]

There were two versions of the Mercury II's firmware. the later version read lower Signal Quality levels then the first. I have seen many times when it was not possible to achieve 50% on 97W according to the MII reading - but on my Super Buddy meter I would get readings in the mid 70s. So you can not rely on absolute readings when adjusting a MII. This is one of the main reasons I like to use my own meter or as in days past my own receiver for alignment - that way I am working with readings that are comparable to previous installs.
Bob

[hillsmi]

There were two versions of the Mercury II's firmware. the later version read lower Signal Quality levels then the first. I have seen many times when it was not possible to achieve 50% on 97W according to the MII reading - but on my Super Buddy meter I would get readings in the mid 70s. So you can not rely on absolute readings when adjusting a MII. This is one of the main reasons I like to use my own meter or as in days past my own receiver for alignment - that way I am working with readings that are comparable to previous installs.
Bob

The above being true, can anyone (Glorystar1) confirm this, and tell me where I can identify the firmware version of the receiver (it's over a year old; maybe 2 or 3), and tell me which version may read lower signal and quality values.

(E* did this a while back, applying updates to the receiver that deceptively led the customer / installer that the visible signal level displayed by the receiver was lower than actual. Why was this done? Who knows. It doesn't make sense. IMO, it's kind of a idiotic upgrade)

I have entertained the idea of acquiring a better quality (identification) meter to perform these installs.

I currently left the system with level in the 80s and quality in the 40s (I know, it's not good). But with the time I have spent, I couldn't get it any better. The system owner is aware of this, and I have informed that if I get any further assistance in how I can increase the signal to lock all channels, that I would revisit the site, or in the recent future, if I acquire a better quality meter, I will surely apply it to maximize the reception.

[Glorystar1]

tell me which version may read lower signal and quality values.

The original Mercury II firmware would not allow fine tuning adjustments as the meter would often be pegged on stronger TPs. I believe that the meter display numbers for the Signal Quality were lowered for Glorystar version in or about version released 03/21/2007- GS_V0443