Hughes AN6-098P, Installation Manual

Page: 75 / 98

Chapter 7 • Pointing the antenna
1037312-0001 Revision B
59
Peaking the signal
Peaking describes the process of achieving the highest possible
signal strength available from the satellite. You may achieve the
strongest signal strength after just a few adjustments, or you may
find that several adjustments are needed. By obtaining the
strongest possible signal, you ensure that the IDU can operate at
the optimum performance level.
Personnel requirements
The antenna pointing process usually requires two people—one
person to aim and adjust the antenna, and a second person to
watch the signal strength display on the computer and relay the
readings back to the first person. However, if you use a DAPT for
pointing, only one person is required. When two people are
needed, a cell phone or walkie-talkie can be very helpful.
Pointing parameters
Prior to antenna pointing, you must use the installation software
to enter pointing parameters such as proper longitude, latitude,
and tilt angle. Alternatively, you can enter the local ZIP code and
let the software calculate these values for you.
Prerequisites for
antenna pointing
The following are required for antenna pointing:
•
The antenna must be installed.
•
The IDU must be installed.
•
The IFL transmit and receive cables must be connected to
both the IDU and the antenna.
•
Both the antenna and the IDU must be grounded.
•
If used, the pointing tool (DAPT or OPI) must be installed.
(See Installing the DAPT on page 61 or Installing the OPI on
page 63.)
•
You must have access to the installation software. (See Using
the installation software on page 58.)