Hadn't until just now.I was wondering if you had ever seen an OFFSET Birdview....this is from 1985...
I've never physically saw one...only in this picture. I'd like to find 2 of them because the first one would be mine!!
phlat...
It's because the feed support arms are out of the way as well as the feed is able to illuminate more of the surface area of the reflector. On a prime focus, the feed doesn't see the rim area as well as it sees the center. That's why a shallow dish is more efficient than the same size deep dish. An offset dish can be more efficient as it has a greater f/d ratio...it can "see" more of the whole surface area.
stogie...
I have a bunch of STV's as well as a 1983 edition of Satellite TV. I also have some Home Satellite TV and some Satellite TV Videoworld. I mentioned in another thread that I might scan a couple of issues and convert them to a PDF and upload them to the forum for a trip down memory lane. Some of the whipper snappers might want to see how satellite TV was in it's formidible years.
We ran a retail store with appliances, electronics, and the VERY FIRST satellite systems in this area. Being an engineer, I totally appreciated the entire design & execution concept of the Birdview company. I have a couple of the 8.5 foot spun white systems and a PALLET of the offset-feed units, called The Spoon.
That was 9 months ago, and I've never been able to contact him since.I have TONS of info, since we purchased a pallet of them when Birdview was closing down. . .will scan and send on just as soon as I find the Spoon brochure. You WILL be impressed! I have installed dozens of the round units, several of these Spoons, which are offset feed. You will be surprised, as I was, by the "side-lobe" figures. And that motor mount---no wonder The Guys are impressed with it! My wife always said it wildly reminded her of half a Maytag transmission---for its gear and cog design---and you KNOW how reliable those babies are!!
I'll be back tomorrow with The Good Stuff!!!