Lesson 1Line-of-sight analysis: identifying trees, buildings, roof edges, and seasonal foliage impactAcquire skills to assess line-of-sight by identifying trees, buildings, roof edges, and other blockages. You will factor in the satellite arc, possible dish positions, and changes in foliage due to seasons that could influence signal quality over time.
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 documentationPrior to beginning the task, verify all paperwork, permissions, and client information. This part covers confirming the scope of work, taking initial photographs, and noting any pre-existing damage or risks to safeguard both the installer and the client.
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 segment addresses checking coaxial lines, connectors, splitters, and multiswitches for wear, dampness, and signal degradation. It also includes examining indoor connections, labelling, and support mechanisms to guarantee enduring performance.
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)Master the use of satellite lookup portals and mobile applications to determine azimuth, elevation, and skew figures. This covers aligning maps, distinguishing magnetic from true north, and confirming measurements with actual site features.
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 bracketsConduct a thorough visual check of the dish, mount, mast, and supports. Identify issues like misalignment, loose fittings, rust, and moisture damage that might compromise safety, alignment precision, or system durability.
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 footwearGrasp the necessary personal safety gear for satellite tasks, such as harnesses, anchors, helmets, gloves, and suitable shoes. Utilise a PPE checklist to ensure gear is in good condition, properly fitted, and meets standards before starting work.
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 secure entry to roofs and balconies by selecting firm ladder spots, mitigating fall risks, and arranging rescue plans. Assess surfaces, secure points, weather threats, and local guidelines before ascending.
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 integrityEvaluate the state of the reflector, feedhorn or LNB, and all bolts. This covers rust, sun damage, water entry, and structural flaws that might necessitate repairs, replacements, or reinforced fixing.
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 part outlines spotting electrical dangers near satellite spots, like power cables and service poles. Learn basics of earthing, connecting, and lightning safeguards to protect the setup and people inside.
Maintaining clearances from overhead linesIdentifying service entrances and metersVerifying dish and mast grounding pathsChecking bonding to building grounding systemAssessing surge and lightning protection
