Size of Satellite TV Dish -v- Radio

In summary, the size difference between satellite dishes for TV and radio is due to signal strength, bandwidth, and the required signal to noise ratio. TV requires a wider bandwidth and therefore needs a bigger dish to receive the necessary signal, while radio can use a weaker signal with more error correction. The analogy of binoculars collecting more light also helps to understand this concept. In the past, big ugly dishes were even larger than modern satellite dishes for TV. The same basic principle still applies with modern digital signals.
  • #1
SophiePotts
3
0
Hi there... I have a question regarding satellite. If I am posting in the wrong place, I'm very sorry (in advance :blushing:) Here's my question. Why is a satellite dish for TV (think Dish Network) so much bigger than one for satellite radio?

Sure would be more attractive to have a teeny unit on top of a home than the big dish. I found this thread https://www.physicsforums.com/archive/index.php/t-125286.html but it didn't really answer the question.
 
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  • #2
Simply signal strength. It's just like big binoculars collect more light than small binoculars.
Radio sends less data than TV so you can don't need to grab as much data/sec so you can use a weaker signal (and more error correction) assuming the same broadcast power
 
  • #3
mgb_phys said:
Simply signal strength. It's just like big binoculars collect more light than small binoculars.
Radio sends less data than TV so you can don't need to grab as much data/sec so you can use a weaker signal (and more error correction) assuming the same broadcast power

Thank you, thank you. The analogy of the binoculars helped a lot (I actually thought radio sent more data not less). Many thanks to you!
Sophie
 
  • #4
If you think Dish or DirecTV antennas are big, you must never have used or lived next to someone who used a Big Ugly Dish (BUD). :biggrin:
 
  • #5
jtbell said:
If you think Dish or DirecTV antennas are big, you must never have used or lived next to someone who used a Big Ugly Dish (BUD). :biggrin:

Wow! No doubt... can you imagine? :eek:
 
  • #6
There is also the factor of bandwidth and the required signal to noise ratio. If your TV requires a bandwidth of something like 27MHz then the receiver will let in a lot more noise than a narrow band channel for radio.
This is an over simplification because I'm comparing the performance of the 'old' analogue FM broadcast TV system, used in Satellite TV with the modern digital radio systems, but the message is basically that if you want to receive wide bandwidth signals, you need a wider RF bandwidth for your receiver which will let in more noise as well, which leads to the requirement for more powerful transmitter or a bigger receiving dish.
Modern digital signals have changed the limits but the same basic principal will always apply.
 

What is the difference between the size of a satellite TV dish and a radio?

The main difference between the size of a satellite TV dish and a radio is their function. A satellite TV dish is used to receive signals from satellites in space to provide television programming, while a radio is used to receive radio signals for audio broadcasting.

Why are satellite TV dishes typically larger than radios?

Satellite TV dishes are typically larger than radios because they need to receive signals from satellites that are much farther away compared to radio signals. The larger size allows for a stronger and more precise signal reception, resulting in a better quality viewing experience for satellite TV.

Can a satellite TV dish be used to receive radio signals?

In most cases, a satellite TV dish cannot be used to receive radio signals. This is because the dish is specifically designed to receive signals from satellites that transmit in a different frequency range compared to radio signals. However, some satellite TV providers may offer a limited selection of radio channels along with their TV programming.

How does the size of a satellite TV dish affect its performance?

Generally, the larger the satellite TV dish, the better its performance will be. A larger dish allows for a stronger and more focused signal reception, resulting in a clearer and more stable picture. However, the performance can also depend on other factors such as the quality of the dish and the location of the satellite.

Are there any advantages to using a smaller satellite TV dish?

One advantage of using a smaller satellite TV dish is that it takes up less space and is more aesthetically pleasing. Additionally, some smaller dishes may still be able to provide a decent viewing experience, especially if they are placed in an area with strong satellite signals. However, larger dishes will typically offer better performance and a wider range of channels to choose from.

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