Satellite equipment is increasingly common in commercial businesses as technology finds more uses for satellite communications equipment. Most suppliers of satellite equipment run training programs for employees, but you can also find many third-party training solutions that teach how to install and repair satellite operation equipment.

To install satellite dish equipment, take courses that provide you with the skills and certification needed for this type of job. You'll learn how the technology works, how to install it on different types of surfaces, and how best to position the satellite so it functions correctly. You can find satellite equipment education and training through:

1. Satellite equipment companies that run specialized training programs.

2. Training classes that provide the skills necessary to work with satellite TV equipment.

3. Seminars that teach professionals additional safety and maintenance skills.

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The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Get certified to install satellite communications equipment

To advance your career, you should be certified to handle many types of satellite equipment, and understand basic installation and maintenance techniques. In some cases, it is illegal to work as a satellite operator unless you have training from a qualified source.

I recommend: The National Coalition for Telecommunications Education & Learning (NCTEL), in a partnership with Pace University, has developed a series of educational programs that prepare students to work in the emerging telecommunications industry. In addition to a bachelor's and associate's degree, NCTEL also offers an advanced certificate and a series of specialty certifications. At GoArmy.com, you can get information on training to be a Satellite Operations Communications Operator-Maintainer. It requires 26 weeks of classroom and hands-on learning.

Take classes to learn how to work with new and used satellite equipment

Whether you want to work with TV satellites or more complex telecommunications equipment, you will need to be certified to repair and install a particular system. There are many classes available that will provide you with the proper certification to work with the technology and install it.

I recommend: Ground Control provides comprehensive training for the VSAT satellite system, complete with certification upon completion. Field Operations Training Department offers courses and certification in satellite installation, particularly for TV satellite services.

Learn how to install satellites from satellite TV equipment manufacturers

Many companies that produce satellites or satellite services offer training programs. These training programs are usually specific to the type of technology used in the business, and may also include training on customer service.

I recommend: Mobil Satellite Technologies is certified to teach your employees to install and uninstall its two-way satellite internet systems in accordance with Federal Communication Commission rules. Solid Signal publishes instructional videos for the benefit of professional DirectTV satellite installers.

Attend seminars hosted by satellite equipment providers

You can also have employees attend seminars and workshops that provide educational opportunities. Many seminars can be completed quickly and don't cost much. Seminars are also a way to introduce new types of tools and technology to employees.

I recommend: Iridium Satellite offers a training course for those who are new its satellite technology, as well as those who own the technology and want to learn all of its features. Satellite Today provides seminars throughout the year that cover topics of importance to satellite distributors, manufacturers and installers.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  If you need additional training materials for an installation training program or workshop, satellite equipment suppliers may be able to provide additional materials, such as user guides and installation manuals.

Satellite equipment places the world at your fingertips.

Whether you are an individual consumer interested in purchasing a satellite TV or radio subscription, or you are a larger business requiring satellite communication across the sea or in the sky, or you are looking to have specialized satellite systems designed and built—or just looking for specific parts, then you are looking for satellite equipment.

Follow these steps to find and begin using the specific product you need:

1. Identify your needs and budget. Satellite equipment companies run the gamut in pricing, depending on what you are shopping for.

2. For simpler uses, such as full-service, subscription satellite TV, go ahead and make your purchase. Standard installation is generally included at no extra charge.

3. For more advanced applications, from free-standing satellite dish equipment on up to advanced communications and specialty design, find prices for all products and services. Then, make your purchase, have your product installed or built, and begin use.

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Review satellite TV equipment offered by the satellite TV providers

If you're talking satellite TV, then you're talking Dish Network or DIRECTV. Each provides equipment for upgrades or special services.

I recommend: DIRECTV advertises a compact Sat-Go kit, which includes a portable satellite receiver, antenna and TV, so you can take all of your DIRECTV entertainment with you, wherever you go. They also showcase different receivers for home use, as well as provide equipment and installation for businesses. DISH Network lists a variety of receivers for home use, including standard, DVR (digital video recording), and HDTV (high definition with digital recording). Best Buy offers DIRECTV components, also. MegasatUsa.com sells a variety of satellite antennas and receivers from various manufacturers.

Access the satellite equipment for sale for your satellite radio

Sirius and XM are the big players here. You can outfit your satellite radio with a variety of accessory equipment.

I recommend: Best Buy offers a range of satellite equipment servicing both Sirius and XM, including outdoor home and vehicle antennas. For satellite radios, you need a satellite radio antenna, tuner and ready deck. Some modular or plug-and-play systems enable the same tuner or control module to be played at home, in your car, and in a portable audio player, such as this plug and play receiver, the Sirius - Starmate 4.

Find satellite equipment providers for your satellite phone or data modem

Cell phones do not work everywhere. For truly global service, or for additional services not provided by cell phones, some businesses and consumers require satellite communications equipment, such as satellite phones and data modems.

I recommend: The SatellitePhoneStore.com offers a variety of Globalstar satellite phones, as well as satellite services from Iridium and Inmarsat satellite modems. Globalstar Accessories include car kits, batteries, satellite phone data kits, Guardian and Axonn Simplex Transmitters and a marine/extreme conditions antenna enclosure.

Connect to suppliers of satellite equipment online

There are a variety of suppliers of satellite equipment accessible over the web. You can find new and used products, and you can find suppliers of specialty parts for satellite construction.

I recommend: Equipment.NET sources a range of satellite equipment suppliers, including manufacturers, retailers and systems designers. The Satellite Shop provides a range of satellite products and services, including free to air (FTA) satellites for satellite TV and installation services. New and Used Inc. buys and sells used satellite equipment of all kinds. Click on the type of equipment and see the available price list. Comtech Telecommunications Corp. designs and builds specialty satellite systems, supplies satellite communications equipment, and provides satellite construction equipment.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Find your total price before buying. Satellite TV with a full-service subscription usually includes standard installation, although custom installation may cost more. Free to air (FTA) satellite TV equipment (no subscription) and satellite dish equipment in general usually involves installation. In these cases, there may be an extra fee involved.
• •  For satellite TV equipment, including the portable Sat-Go, you still need a clear view of the southern sky for good reception.
• •  Select models of satellite radios are available that can be purchased and used just like standard AM/FM radios, which means no installation or additional set-up of satellite equipment. You would still need to purchase a satellite radio subscription, however, to access all of the digital channels.

You'll quickly find that various kinds of satellite equipment are essential for the signal to be transmited from the satellite up in space to the appropriate location on Earth. Satellite equipment key terms help define the equipment needed to make this happen. However, the equipment necessary varies, depending on which satellite application you are using. To be on top of your game, study satellite equipment key terms for the following areas: satellite Internet, satellite radio and satellite television.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Broadband by satellite

Broadband by satellite allows anyone with a satellite to connect to the Internet, with the proper equipment. No longer do you have to be within a certain distance of the phone service to receive fast Internet service. Certain companies can help you establish an Internet connection through your satellite, meaning you can connect anywhere.

I recommend: Skycasters details the options you have with broadband by satellite. You can have a stationary connection, a mobile connection and/or VPN security for telecommuters.

Two-way satellite Internet

If broadband is not available, two-way satellite Internet is an option. Satellite Internet is a good option if you want a high-speed, always on connection. While it is significantly faster than dial up, two-way satellite Internet is not as fast as broadband, DSL and cable. That's because the data must travel from your computer, to the satellite, to the Internet and back to the satellite, finally arriving at your computer.

I recommend: BuildWebSite4u.com details the benefits and the potential drawback of two-way satellite Internet.

Satellite radio antenna

Satellite radio antennas are necessary to receive satellite radio from companies that specialize in this medium. These antennas mount on your vehicle or in your home to receive the signal.

I recommend: Satellite Radio Review has a lot of information about satellite radio antennas.

Satellite radio boombox

A satellite radio boombox is necessary if you want satellite radio to go directly to your stereo.

I recommend: Crutchfield offers an explanation of a satellite radio boombox. You must have a compatible boombox to enjoy satellite radio on it.

Parabolic dish antenna, or dish antenna, or dish

The satellite dish is what makes it possible to receive satellite television. Other terms used for the dish are parabolic dish antenna and dish antenna.

I recommend: All about Electronics provides details about a parabolic dish antenna.

Receiver

A satellite receiver is the go-between for the satellite dish and the television. The satellite dish receives the signal, and the satellite receiver transmits that signal to the television.

I recommend: Guide4Home details the responsibilities of a satellite receiver.