Introduction
1705A Spectrum Monitor 1-13
Zeroing in on a Satellite
In almost all casesa set procedure for Locating, Identifying, Finding (transpond-
ers), and Optimizing will be followed. The 1705A Spectrum Monitor is a tool
that greatly simplifiesthe individual steps so thecorrect satellite transponder can
be accessed in the minimum time.
In most cases the elevation(angle above the horizon) and the true azimuth
(directioneast or west to the satellite) of the antenna will be the same as it was
for the previous access of the same satellite. This angle can be found in one of
two ways, calculation or approximatio n from previous accesses; however, no
matter how thesatellite is located the signal path will need to be optimized. In
most cases the approximatelocation of the satellite is known from previous
transactionsand only identification of transponders and signal strength remain to
be dealt with.
Each of the satelliteshas one or more singular characteristics. In many cases the
singular characteristicscan be easily identified on the spectrum monitor, which
can save valuablesetup time. These characteristics can take the form of
telemetrybeacons, transponder polarization schemes, or blocks of non-video
signals that stand out. And in a fewcases, the easiest method of identification
may be the fact that the satelliteis near another satellite that is readily identifi-
able.
TelemetryB eacons. Satellites havespecial tracking or telemetry beacons that
are easilyrecognizable on the spectrum monitor. Not only do these assist in
identifying the satellite, but they provide anaccu rate way to set the frequency
offsetto correspond with actual satellite frequencies. Figure 1-6 shows a typical
Ku--Bandsatellite telemetry beacon. Note that the1705A readout frequency can
be offsetto read the down link frequency in GHz. Similar beacons can be found
on some C--Bandsatellites also.

Locating the Satellite

Identifying the Satellite