How to Set the Polarization on a Satellite Dish

Set the polarization by rotating the dish on its axis.

Aside from vertical and horizontal adjustments, some satellite dishes have a polarization adjustment that rotates it around the axis of the signal from the satellite. A dish with two or more feed horns also has a rotation adjustment called a skew. To set the polarization or skew, you should already have subscribed to a satellite provider and have aligned the vertical and horizontal adjustments to the strongest signal possible. You may need a helper if you can't see your TV, and cellphones if he is out of earshot.

Things You'll Need

• Wrenches

Instructions

1. Turn on your satellite receiver and your TV and adjust the receiver to show the signal level on the TV screen. See your satellite receiver user's manual.

2. 

   Some dishes point at two or three satellites at the same time.

   Loosen the bolts on the dish that allow it to rotate on its axis. Do not loosen the horizontal or elevation adjustment bolts. See your dish owner's manual.

3. While monitoring the signal strength, rotate the dish clockwise in very small increments. If the signal strength increases, continue moving in that direction until you find a peak signal. If it decreases, move in the other direction. Make small adjustments until you find the strongest signal.

4. Tighten the bolts while monitoring the signal. If the signal decreases while tightening, alternate bolts to try to regain the strongest signal. You may have to try several times if the alignment is particularly sensitive. Stop when all bolts are tight and you have the strongest signal you have seen while adjusting.

Tips & Warnings

• Some dishes set polarization by turning only the feed horn. These dishes are usually round.

• Your satellite service provider should have adjusted polarization when aligning your dish. If you believe your dish was not completely aligned, call your service provider.

• If your dish is in a precarious or dangerous position, call an experienced service technician from your satellite service provider. Don't take risks.

References

• DBS Install: DirecTV and Dish Network Satellite Locations
• Satellite Signals: Explanation of Polarization Angle