Signal Meter Sensitivity??

[esteveW]

I have one of the inexpensive Satellite Finders to monitor the signal as I adjust my dish.

Originally I put it in the C band coax near the receiver since I did my trial adjustments while observing the TV and listing to the signal level from the meter tone.

Following the meter re-adjustment procedure (keep the reading around 5 or less) I got the direction refined but found that the stronger the signal the more difficult it was to "recenter" the meter. It was difficult but "do-able". I found the adjustment on the back was already, factory set all the way to left (less sensitivity). But I put up with it.

Now I'm trying to use it at the base of the BUD post and the signal is much stronger there. So strong that I found it impossible to recenter the meter. What I finally did (and this is non-scientific) I put a 100ft length of coax between the meter and the LNB. At least that put the sensitivity back to what I had in the house. Is there something better I could correct this problem and make the meter more useful..

Steve

 

[starman345]

I've had two or three of those cheap meters, they all had a silver sticker on the back, if you peel off the sticker, you will see a round hole in the plastic housing that will give you access to a potentiometer adjustment screw. If your meter has that screw, play with it, on mine it changes the sensitivity. Other than that, adding extra coax like you have done is a good way to attenuate the signal. I've given up on meters I just use a satellite receiver with a small tv at the dish.

 

[esteveW]

Been there, Done that! Not that I don't appreciate the suggestion.

The Pot is all the way to the left (CCW) and that is the direction I need to go to reduce the sensitivity.

Thanks for confirming that I am doing something right.

Steve

 

[Sadoun]

Steve,

You could use an attenuator pad such as this Pico Macom:

Features

• Reduces RF signal strength to reduce intermodulation caused by high input levels
• Frequency Range 5~2000 MHz
• Precision SMD Monolithic Ceramic Printed Circuit Board
• Etched Glazed Type Resistors
• Return Loss 20 dB typical
• Attenuation Values 1, 3, 6, 8, 10, 12, 16, 20 dB
• Flatness 0.5 dB
• 1% Tolerance components
• 22-Gauge Spring Steel Center
• Nickel Plated Precision Machined Brass

There are also Variable Attenuator where you can adjust how much you want to reduce the signal