Dish Network Smartbox User Manual page 31

NOTES:
• If RSSI (signal level/power) is good/excellent and SNR (signal quality) is indicating a poor/acceptable
range measurement, then this condition is likely a good indication of local signal interference or multipath
degradation. Generally speaking, good signal power should equate to good signal quality.
• The RS Uncorrected count is accumulative. So, for example, a count of 3,000 errors over days/weeks/months
isn't necessarily bad. But, that same error count within 60 minutes indicates that signal quality is suffering and
likely the SNR is poor.
• No more than two ATSC services should be configured per QAM channel. For additional ATSC service
mapping guidance, refer to "Chapter 11 Map Service".
Antenna(s) Installation
No single tower broadcasts all services. Most markets have 3+ towers each broadcasting select virtual channels.
This complexity requires a proper pre-installation site survey to determine the necessary antenna arc, transmitting
tower(s) distances and signal power, how many and type(s) or antenna needed, etc. to ensure the desired
channels can be received. Here are a few key tips to adhere to:
Antenna(s) and Amplification Selection and Ramifications
There are various antenna types: omni-, uni-, and bi-directional, pre-amped, antennas with filters for certain
frequencies, etc.
There are various amplification types: built-in, pre-, mast-, and distribution amps.
You must research which type(s) of antenna and amps are needed at each property. For example, the antenna
type/gain should be appropriately matched to for the transmit power and distance from the broadcast tower. This
avoids over/under-loading the RF "front end" of the ATSC receiver blade. For example, using a high gain antenna
(25 dBi+) with an amplifier (+20 dB) to receive a powerful 1MW (e.g., 1,000 KW) VHF transmitter that is located 10
miles will likely cause overloading and poor receiver performance.
Depending on the quantity and/or type of antenna installed, additional equipment may be necessary to complete
the installation. For example, a signal combiners or splitters may be needed. Be mindful of the type of combiner
or splitter used. Failure to do so will result in a higher noise floor, increased risk of interfering signals, or lead to
complete signal loss. Only combiners specifically designed for use with ATSC antennas should be used.
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