Helpful Hints on receiving 1.2GHz ATV signals
 

To receive a 1.2 GHz FM ATV signa,l you will need a good FM Video receiver. Hams commonly use surplus analog satellite receivers. A good source for receivers is P.C Electronics in Arcada CA. (626) 447-4565.
Many satellite TV receivers are not very sensitive for ATV work, as they were designed to be used with satellite grade LNB's that have 30-50 dB gain. They may require at least 30 dB more system gain in the form of preamps. Also, they are made for much wider deviation used for broadcast satellite TV, and must be readjusted or modified for more video gain. The FM ATV receivers from P. C. Electronics are sensitive enough to be directly used, but in either case best sensitivity will be obtained by using an antenna mounted preamp such as the 23LNAWPQ available from P. C. Electronics or Downeast Microwave (908) 996-3584. An antenna mounted preamp can eliminate the coax losses.
The antenna is critical, for both receive and transmit. The range and picture quality can be greatly increased by choosing a high gain antenna for receive and transmit. The table below shows some expected results using different antenna combinations. Antennas are also available through P.C Electronics.

Note: Broadcast Satellite receivers have two band settings , KU or C Band.
The input frequency range is usually between 950 MHz to 1450 MHz. Switching the band settings between KU and C band does not affect the input frequency range, but it does invert the received video signal . If you receive a distorted picture it could be because the receiver may be inverting the video. If this is the case, simply switch between the bands on the receiver.
The audio sub-carrier is transmitted on 5.5 MHz from the center of the video carrier. You may have to manually tune the audio sub-carrier frequency on a receiver to 5.5 MHz, since some broadcast satellite receivers default to other than 5.5 MHz upon power up. It is recommended to use a receiver designed for 4 MHz deviation FM ATV or a satellite receiver with a variable IF bandwidth control to increase sensitivity and reduce probability of off channel strong signal interference.
Remember to check with local ATV'ers to make sure that your antenna is set for the same polarization as they are using in the area.
Another good Satellite receiver is the Scientific Atlanta Model 9708.
 
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