Lesson 1Line-of-sight analysis: identifying trees, buildings, roof edges, and seasonal foliage impactLearn to check line-of-sight by finding trees, buildings, roof edges, and other blocks. You will think about satellite path, dish position choices, and seasonal leaf changes that may affect signal quality over time in Uganda's varying weather.
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 beginning work, confirm papers, permits, and customer details. This part explains how to verify job scope, take starting photos, and note existing damage or dangers to protect both the technician and client in Ugandan 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 part covers checking coaxial lines, connectors, splitters, and multiswitches for damage, wetness, and signal loss. You will also review indoor endings, labelling, and strain relief to ensure lasting reliability in humid Ugandan 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 phone apps to get azimuth, elevation, and skew values. This part covers map matching, magnetic vs true north, and checking readings against site conditions common in Uganda's landscapes.
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 bracketsDo a thorough visual check of the dish, mount, mast, and brackets. Learn to spot misalignment, loose parts, rust, and water damage that could affect safety, pointing accuracy, or system stability in Uganda's rainy seasons.
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 needed personal protective gear for satellite work, including harnesses, anchors, helmets, gloves, and shoes. Learn to use a PPE checklist to verify condition, fit, and compliance before each job in Uganda's work sites.
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 spots, controlling fall dangers, and preparing rescue plans. Learn to check surfaces, anchor points, weather risks, and local rules before climbing in Ugandan buildings.
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 integrityCheck the condition of the reflector, feedhorn or LNB, and all bolts. This part covers rust, sun damage, water entry, and structural weakness that may need repair, replacement, or re-anchoring in Uganda's climate.
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 explains how to spot electrical dangers near satellite sites, including power lines and masts. Learn grounding, bonding, and lightning protection basics to keep the system and people safe in Uganda's stormy weather.
Maintaining clearances from overhead linesIdentifying service entrances and metersVerifying dish and mast grounding pathsChecking bonding to building grounding systemAssessing surge and lightning protection
