The Compact 2 ft. Satellite Tripod Mount [VIDEO]

For those in need of a compact yet sturdy satellite tripod, we have the answer. PL Depot’s 2 ft. Satellite Tripod is the solution for campers, RV’ers, tailgaters and even apartment dwellers. The compact and lightweight design is still rugged enough for durability; as our 2 ft. Satellite Tripod Mount is made of galvanized steel and great for satellite dishes, antenna installations, solar panels, work lights and much more! Watch the video below for more information on the compact 2 ft. Satellite Tripod Mount.

The Versatile 3 ft. Satellite Tripod Mount [VIDEO]

For those in need of a great all-around satellite tripod, look no further. PL Depot’s 3 ft. Galvanized Steel Satellite Tripod is the answer for RV’ers, tailgaters, and even those looking for a permanent installation. The lightweight design is rugged enough for multiple uses; as our 3 ft. Tripod Mount is great for satellite dish mounts, antenna installations, solar panel mounts, work lights and so much more! Watch the video below for more information on the wonderfully versatile 3 ft. Satellite Tripod Mount.

Explaining the CEA Antenna Codes

Consumers were once considered uneducated about their antenna needs.  With consumer’s ability to use advanced technology and the Internet, consumers are better equipped to educate themselves.  The mystery is gone.  Broadcast and satellite information are readily available over the Internet.

The CEA stands for the Consumer Electronic Association.  The CEA helps drive consistency within the consumer electronics industry by setting standards between technology and products.

CEA helps to bridge the gap between companies, retailers and consumers.
One of the CEA standards are antenna codes are used by the organization to identify certain requirements through codes and colors. By logging into the CEA website, users may access great information about local TV stations that are broadcasting in your area. The website also provides other information regarding the best TV antenna, which is customized according to the location of use.

CEA has divided the antenna codes into six colors based on six geographic zones. The zones identify various antenna types that are to be installed for optimal reception in their region. The colors identify the broadcast conditions of a specific area for each tower. For instance, yellow is a Small Multi-Directional antenna, which is the smallest of all the TV antennas. Green is also used to represent a Medium Multi-Directional TV antenna. These antennas are slightly more powerful and stronger than Small Multi-Directional TV antennas.  There are other zones such as light green which are Large Multi-Directional TV Antennas, red which are Medium Directional TV Antennas, blue are Medium Directional TV Antennas and violet is a Large Directional TV Antennas.

If planning to install an antenna for HDTV, matching the antenna to the recommended CEA code and color is crucial  As previously mentioned, the CEA website is especially useful in this regard. Moreover, for installing an HDTV antenna, there are certain factors that restrict your choice of HDTV Antenna. Your location is the most important factor.

Consumer interest has steadily grown in recent years with the digital transition as well as the economic downturn.  When it comes to purchasing an antenna, the consumer’s goal is to get the best antenna for the money.  In recent years, the selection has grown and the choices are vast.  I recommend that instead of relying on the marketers or the content providers as a guide, consumers should also make an effort to know more about TV antennas, their types, optimal antennas in their location and much more before making a purchase.  The CEA website is useful in this regard.  In some cases, local referrals may be the most helpful when selecting a TV Antenna. In order to find the best TV Antenna, consumers can also seek the help of an experienced installer.

How To Install A Satellite Dish

A Satellite Dish Install In A Few Simple Steps

A satellite dish installation is not always for the do-it yourselfer, some may consider hiring a professional installer.  Many satellite retailers offer a free installation with a new subscription.   If you decide to install the satellite dish yourself, here are a few useful tips.

Items For Satellite Dish Install:

• Satellite Finder
• Satellite Dish
• Satellite Receiver
• Coax Cable
• 7/16″ Wrench
• Nut Driver Bit
• Zip Ties or Black Tape
• Staples or Screw Clips
• Post Level
• Lag Bolts
• Compass

Begin by locating a suitable place for installing the satellite dish.  The install location should have a clear line of site and be able face the direction as determined by your zip code.  Line of sight is a must, for any interference will not allow for adequate signal strength. Another important task while installing the satellite dish is to bolt the mast firmly and ensure it is plumb in all directions. Depending on the install location, you may use the provided foot / mast assembly.  Others prefer a satellite tripod, wall mount or chimney mount.

The next step is to secure the satellite dishplaced on the mast, but do not tighten the bolts.  Put the coax cable through the arm of the satellite dish where the LNBF is and then properly connect the coax cable.  Be sure to then secure the LNBF to the satellite dish.  Do not over torque the bolts. Now consult the satellite system manual for guidance on the correct skew and raise the dish accordingly.   The user manual should provide detailed measurements based on your zip code. The satellite dish should also be well labeled with tick marks to accurately set the measurements.

Connect the coax cable to the satellite signal finder and also consider using the television for signal confirmation.  Once you set the satellite dish to the measurements outlined in the user manual and then check the satellite signal finder until the signal is located.  Make slight horizontal and vertical adjustments to the reflector as needed to peak the signal.  After achieving an optimum satellite signal, secure the bolts on the satellite dish.

Make the coax cable connection from the satellite dish to the receiver.  Finally, perform the final test by connecting the receiver to your television.  There may be a few confirmation steps to follow on-screen to complete the satellite dish installation.  Once that is complete, you are ready to watch your favorite show.

An Installed Satellite Dish

Ideal Industries Now on PL Depot

PL Depot is proud to add Ideal Industries to our line-up of great testers and mappers. Joining Advantage Meters and Test-Um, Ideal Industries meters provide excellent options for professional installers and home do-it-yourselfers to aid in coax, network and phone installations. Anything with a cable or wire, an Ideal meter can identify it.

We are especially excited to feature the Ideal VDV Multimedia Cable Tester as part of our initial Ideal Industries line-up. The VDV Multimedia Cable Tester is a coax tester, network tester and phone tester all-in-one. For those looking to save space, but also have the capability to map and test coax, network and phone connections, the Ideal VDV Multimedia Cable Tester is the low-priced, reliable tool you need!

For more information on our Ideal Industries products, please take a look at our selection of Ideal Industries product.