LNB Head for Satellite Dish

What to know about satellite LNB heads

A universal LNB head receives both polarities (horizontal and vertical) and the full frequency range of the satellite's Ku-band. The LNB head, together with the satellite dish, is part of the "external satellite receiver unit" and is an important component of the satellite receiver system. Since microwave signals have a very poor penetration through walls, roofs and windows, the satellite dish with LNB should always be placed outdoors and, of course, pointed in the right direction. Satellite receiver heads are capable of receiving all digital signals from a single satellite position, for example from Eutelsat, Astra, etc., which transmit signals from a wide range of TV channels.

What types of satellite LNB heads are there?

There are different types and brands of LNB heads. But let's take a look at the most commonly used types:

• Single LNB head: for a parabolic antenna with 1 outlet (for a satellite set-top box with 1 DVB-S2 tuner)
• Twin LNB head: for a single satellite dish with 2 outlets (for 2 satellite receivers with DVB-S2 tuner or 2 single satellite receiver set-top boxes)
• Quad LNB head: for a satellite dish with 4 outlets
• Octo LNB head: for one satellite dish with 8 outlets

The Octo LNB head should not be confused with the Quatro LNB! The Quatro LNB is a different type of LNB from the above, which has 4 outputs, but these are divided into 4 quadrants of the satellite frequency range. It can only be used with a multiswitch.

What are the specific satellite LNB heads?

A monoblock LNB head is a block of 2 or 3 or 4 separate receivers cast into a single satellite receiver head, in order to allow the LNB head to receive multiple satellites simultaneously. Available in different versions. Currently these are the most commonly used LNBs:

• Duo LNB: this type of LNB receives two satellites at the same time and is available in Single, Twin and Quad versions, i.e. with 1, 2 or 4 outputs. These LNB heads are suitable for satellite dishes with a diameter of 60-80 cm;Single or Double LNB, 2 or 4 LNBs, 1 or 2 LNBs, and 2 or 3 LNBs;Single or Double LNB, 2 or 3 LNBs.
• Triple LNB: this LNB receives three satellites. It can be used in combination with a 60 or 80 cm satellite dish. Only available in Quad version.
• Quad LNB: receives 4 satellites and is suitable for 70-90 cm parabolic antennas.

The Unicable LNB head is a new technology designed to meet the need to have fewer cables around or in the house. An optical LNB head can be a good choice when it would be necessary to route the signal to distances above 60-70 meters from the antenna, which the traditional 75 ohm coax cable may no longer be the ideal solution.

What types of satellite receivers is this LNB head compatible with?

In order to watch TV at home in peace and quiet, you'll also need an indoor satellite receiver unit, which is already DVB-S2 compatible at best. Remember, nowadays, telecom satellites can also transmit HD or UHD. So if you have such a satellite receiver indoor unit, you can choose from a wide spectrum of TV channels to find the one that suits you.

What kind of connector will you need to connect the LNB head?

In order to get perfect reception, you will need a suitable coax cable, possibly a coax cable adapter and connector. But let's start at the beginning. You'll need a coax cable with 75 ohms of shielding attenuation, or dualshield. If you need to splice the wires together, use a coax cable splice. But our recommendation is to use a single piece of wire instead. Because even the best-shielded cable cannot produce a perfect picture if the quality of the shielding is compromised by an excessive number of connections.

To connect the LNB head to the system, use an F-connector. You can choose a screw version or one that can be attached to the end of the wire with crimping pliers. Of course, the screw F-connector is easier to install at home, but for signal strength, it is better to choose the professional solution. DND Telecom has a wide range of crimping pliers in its webshop.

How to choose the right LNB head?

Based on the number of devices to be installed and their functionality, you can choose single, twin, quad or octo LNB heads. However, the quality of the head is something to look out for, so choose the one that best suits your needs from the branded Inverto and Goobay LNB heads available in the DND Telecom webshop. Another thing to check is the noise level of the satellite receiver head. Choose one that has a noise level of <= 0.3 dB. We should be aware that the 0.1 dB noise level exists only on paper, so if you come across such a figure, take it with a grain of salt.

What is the head noise level of a satellite LNB and why is this important when choosing one?

Satellite LNB heads are often offered with very low noise levels. They do this to give you the feeling that you are getting the best reception. But this is not always true. The noise level of satellite LNV heads is not the only factor responsible for the quality of reception. It is more complex than just picking out a detail and using that to tell whether the picture will be clear and enjoyable. Pay attention also to the connection between the satellite dish and the LNB head. Because, if the LNB head is badly adjusted and the weather conditions are unfavourable, no matter how good the noise level is, the result will be miserable.

Does the LNB head support HD (high-definition) signals?

Nowadays the system is DVB-S2 compatible. Even if you already have a satellite dish, there is no need to be alarmed, because you will only need a satellite receiver unit that is capable of using the DVB-S2 standard. If you want to watch your favourite channels in HD quality, all you need is a satellite receiver with a CI module.

How easy is it to install and set up the LNB head?

Installation requires some manual skills. Installation is done in sunny, cloud-free weather. It is not recommended to start installing and adjusting a satellite dish in bad weather, as the signal strength may be weaker in such conditions. But before you start to install the LNB head, select the location of the satellite dish, then install the antenna mount, and once that is done, you can install the LNB head and adjust the antenna. When the best signal level is achieved, it is recommended to tighten the screws permanently.

When carrying out this procedure, always check the signal level to ensure that the antenna has not moved by accident. Remember, by moving the LNB head, even minimally, you can adjust the reception. The LNB head should be moved counter-clockwise. Adjusting the antenna requires precision, time and patience. In this case, scrambling will not solve anything. Therefore, only start this process if you can take the time to adjust it.

What tools and equipment will you need to install the satellite LNB head?

Perhaps one of the most important tools is a drill and hammer. Since the satellite dish is mostly placed on the roof, you will also need a ladder. When you mount the LNB head, without a wrench you will not be able to tighten the necessary screws. But be prepared to have to secure the wiring, so don't start the process without a cable tie. But you'll also need blanching and crimping pliers.

Contact us if you can't find the right satellite receiver head or have any questions. Our colleagues will be happy to help you choose the right model!