Lesson 1Line-of-sight analysis: identifying trees, buildings, roof edges, and seasonal foliage impactLearn to evaluate line-of-sight by spotting trees, buildings, roof edges, and other obstructions. You will consider satellite arc, dish location options, and seasonal foliage changes that may affect long-term signal quality in northern climates.
Using sighting tools to trace satellite pathsIdentifying current physical obstructionsEstimating seasonal foliage growth impactComparing alternative dish mounting spotsDocumenting LOS risks in site notesLesson 2Pre-work check: paperwork, permits, customer confirmation, and site photos for baseline documentationBefore starting work, confirm paperwork, permits, and customer details. This section explains how to verify job scope, capture baseline photos, and record existing damage or hazards to protect both technician and client under Canadian regulations.
Reviewing work orders and job scopeConfirming customer identity and expectationsChecking permits and property approvalsTaking baseline photos of site conditionsRecording pre-existing damage and hazardsLesson 3Inspecting coaxial cables, connectors, splitters, multiswitches, and indoor terminationThis section covers inspecting coaxial runs, connectors, splitters, and multiswitches for damage, moisture, and signal loss. You will also review indoor terminations, labelling, and strain relief to ensure long-term reliability in varying weather conditions.
Identifying kinks, crushing, and UV damageChecking connectors for corrosion and loosenessEvaluating splitters and multiswitch placementInspecting indoor wall plates and terminationsLabeling cable paths for future serviceLesson 4Using tools and apps for preliminary azimuth/elevation/skew lookup (satellite lookup websites, compass apps)Learn to use satellite lookup sites and mobile apps to obtain azimuth, elevation, and skew values. This section covers map alignment, magnetic versus true north, and validating readings against on-site conditions for accurate Canadian installations.
Choosing reliable satellite lookup websitesUsing compass and inclinometer appsUnderstanding magnetic vs true northChecking skew values for selected satellitesCross-checking app data with field realityLesson 5Visual inspection of dish, mount, mast, and wall/roof bracketsPerform a detailed visual inspection of the dish, mount, mast, and brackets. Learn to spot misalignment, loose hardware, rust, and water damage that could affect safety, pointing accuracy, or long-term system stability in harsh winters.
Checking dish alignment and visible warpingInspecting mast plumb and rigidityExamining wall and roof bracket anchoringIdentifying rust, cracks, and metal fatigueAssessing sealant and water intrusion pointsLesson 6Personal protective equipment and PPE checklist: harnesses, anchors, helmets, gloves, and footwearUnderstand required personal protective equipment for satellite work, including harnesses, anchors, helmets, gloves, and footwear. Learn to use a PPE checklist to verify condition, fit, and compliance before each job per Canadian safety standards.
Selecting fall arrest harnesses and lanyardsChoosing anchors and lifelines for roofsUsing helmets, gloves, and eye protectionSelecting slip-resistant, insulated footwearCompleting and storing PPE checklistsLesson 7Roof and balcony access planning: ladder placement, fall hazards, and rescue considerationsPlan safe access to roofs and balconies by choosing stable ladder locations, controlling fall hazards, and preparing rescue options. Learn to evaluate surfaces, anchor points, weather risks, and local regulations before climbing in Canada.
Selecting safe ladder locations and anglesSecuring ladders to structures and anchorsAssessing roof surfaces and load capacityIdentifying fall hazards and exclusion zonesPlanning rescue routes and emergency accessLesson 8Assessing dish condition: reflector, feedhorn/LNB, bolts, corrosion, and structural integrityAssess the condition of the reflector, feedhorn or LNB, and all fasteners. This section covers corrosion, UV damage, water ingress, and structural weakness that may require repair, replacement, or re-anchoring in cold climates.
Inspecting reflector surface for dentsChecking LNB housing and weather sealsTesting LNB arm rigidity and alignmentEvaluating bolts, nuts, and clamp tightnessDeciding when replacement is requiredLesson 9Electrical safety and grounding checks: nearby power lines, lightning protection, and bonding requirementsThis section explains how to recognize electrical hazards near satellite sites, including power lines and service masts. Learn grounding, bonding, and lightning protection basics to keep the system and occupants safe per Canadian electrical codes.
Maintaining clearances from overhead linesIdentifying service entrances and metersVerifying dish and mast grounding pathsChecking bonding to building grounding systemAssessing surge and lightning protection
