Installation

• Verify and adjust the polarization in accordance with the antenna data sheets before you mount the antenna. The antenna and feed assembly are usually clearly indicated within the installation instructions by the manufacturer to make the polarization setting easier. Coarse tune the azimuth after the antenna has been installed in its permanent position. The azimuth is the left and right alignment. Use a compass to assist in the azimuth pre-alignment if the target antenna cannot be seen. A sighting compass works best for this purpose. It facilitates sighting distant objects and has azimuth and quadrant bearings marked on it. Set the magnetic declination in the compass, according to a topographical map, before using it. Determine the correct azimuth and finish mounting the antenna. Use a level to set the elevation or tilt at vertical plumb or zero degrees elevation. A vertical elevation scale is provided on the mounting hardware on some antennas. If there is a great deal of difference between the height of the antenna being installed and the target antenna, the tilt may have to be adjusted. Follow the instructions supplied with the antenna to determine the proper course-tuning tilt. Determine whether DC voltage at the receive signal level (RSL) test point or receive signal level indicated by software or firmware will be used for the final antenna adjustments. DC voltage at the RSL test point is preferred. It is generally a near-real-time reading which provides immediate changes in signal strength as adjustments are being made and allows the installer to do more precise positioning. Make the final alignment adjustments in polarization, azimuth and elevation. The relationship between RSL test voltage and signal strength varies, depending on the antenna manufacturer and type of antenna. Consult the information provided with the antenna to make this determination for fine-tuning the alignment. Monitor the RSL while tightening the mounting hardware and adjustments to make sure the alignment is not changed.