What are the benefits of satellite and how does it compare with normal antennas?

Satellite reception is available Australia wide and is not affected by the usual sources of interference that typically interrupts terrestrial (local antenna) reception such as weather patterns, mountains, even the earth's curvature.

Satellites have none of these restrictions. Programs can come from next door, or half way around the world with picture perfect digital quality. Best of all, because you own your own satellite system, there are no monthly fees for free-to-air TV anywhere in Australia.

How much power does a Campersat system need?

The satellite equipment now with modern switch-mode power supplies consumes approximately 10-15 watts at 240v AC.

Does the picture quality vary across the country?

No. The broadcast is digital, so the picture will always be free of 'ghosting and snow'. The picture quality will remain perfect unless there is insufficient signal to operate the receiver, in which case you may experience a 'signal dropout' where the signal will go temporarily blank. Your standard Videosat dish (75cm) is big enough to give you excellent reception around most of Australia. Signals are weaker in Australia's far north east and south west, as well as during heavy rain or dense overcast conditions. Larger dish may be appropriate.

What are the benefits of satellite and how does it compare with normal antennas?

Satellite reception is not affected by the usual sources of interference that typically interrupts terrestrial (local antenna) reception. These can be caused by weather patterns, topography such as mountains or buildings, local electrical interference, even the earth's curvature can interfere with great picture and sound.

Satellites have none of these restrictions. Best of all, because you own your own satellite system, there are no monthly fees.

Understanding LNB's

The LNB- the bit in front of the dish is probably the most important piece of high tech electronics in your satellite system.

It is important that this unit matches the required performance of each receiver connected. Some European LNB's are not compatible with receivers used by Australian service providers. All Videosat systems are designed with this in mind.

With the advent of Optus D3 cosited with Optus C1, LNB’s for the Pay TV service must be wide band operate across the two satellites simultaneously.

This means the LO in the LNB is lowered to 10.7 GHz and the output to the receiver is raised to 2GHz.  This is no big deal except that Internet equipment including cables and connectors must to up to this standard. For example all Videosat cables now use compression connectors. Caveat Emptor – Buyer Beware

Satellite Pay TV

Major pay TV providers install systems where you rent the whole system.
You may order dish products for use where pay operators provide only the receiver and card.