Satellite Communications Components Key Terms

Understand the purpose of the components required for satellite communications

By Kristan Hart

Satellite communications requires more than just a satellite in space and a satellite dish on Earth. There are several satellite communications components that are necessary to make the connection. From the dish antenna on the house to the cables that bring the audio and video to life, each component has a specific function. Understanding satellite communications components key terms will help you every step of the way, from ordering and installation to maintenance and troubleshooting.

Dish antenna, dish, or parabolic reflector

For customers to receive a satellite signal, they must have a dish antenna, also known as a dish or satellite dish. Some people also refer to this as a parabolic reflector, but that term is usually saved for engineers and others who work on the technological side of the field. For standard definition programming, the dish antenna required is an 18-inch circle. The dish antenna customers need for HD programming is an oval dish that measures 18 inches by 20 inches.
Try: Radio Electronics.com details how the parabolic reflector (dish antenna) is used in satellite television.

Satellite receiver, or tuner

A satellite receiver connects the satellite dish to the television or radio. The dish antenna receives the audio and video satellite transmissions, and that information is deciphered by the satellite receiver. It's then transmitted to the TV or stereo. Most people use the term receiver, or satellite receiver, but it is sometimes referred to as a tuner.
Try: Tech-FAQ describes an FTA satellite receiver, which can receive Free To Air satellite transmissions. HowStuffWorks explains how a satellite receiver works.

LNB, or LNC

An LNB, an acronym for low noise block, is the device that sticks out from the satellite dish. It helps the dish antenna convert the signals sent from the satellite so the satellite receiver only has to decipher the appropriate signals. It's also referred to as an LNC, or low-noise converter.
Try: Solid Signal explains how an LNB works.

Amplifier, or signal booster

An amplifier boosts signals sometimes lost by long cable runs. The longer the cable is that carries the signal, the weaker the signal is once it reaches the source. Most experts recommend an amplifier on the line any time there is 75 to 100 feet of cable carrying the satellite signal, or if you have multiple televisions connected to the incoming cable line. Because of what it does, some people call an amplifier a signal booster.
Try: Motorola answers numerous questions about in-home amplifiers.

Diplexers and separators

Diplexers and separators are necessary if you want satellite television in multiple rooms. One satellite cable comes in, but a diplexer allows you to separate that one signal into two signals to transmit to two different receivers.
Try: Solid Signal explains what diplexers are and how they work.

Component cable, HDMI

To connect the satellite receiver to a television, a special cable will give you the best audio and video. The most common cables used for this purpose are component cables or HDMI cables.
Try: Satellite TV Guru compares component cables with HDMI cables.