This comprehensive reference, the industry standard with more than 53,000 copies in print, thoroughly explores the fundamentals of satellite communications and earth station operation, explains how to select and evaluate satellite TV components, details installation procedures including multiple-receiver and multiple-television hookups and large dishes, and sets out a complete strategy for troubleshooting any satellite TV system. The Manual is a complete reference that clearly explains such subjects as half transponder formats and circular polarization. An excellent working tool, it presents all the details anyone needs to install, operate and maintain a satellite system.

Additional materials in the 4th edition include an outline of digital video compression methods and the MPEG-2 digital video standard, a discussion of the on-going transition from analog to digital broadcasting, terrestrial interference in a digital environment and a study of IF distribution systems.

PARTIAL CONTENTS: Satellite Communication Fundamentals. MPEG-2 Digital Video Broadcasts. The Communication Satellite. The Receive Site. Terrestrial Interference. Selecting Satellite TV Equipment. Installing Satellite TV Components. Upgrading Satellite Television Systems. Television Distribution Methods.Troubleshooting and Repair. Large Dish Systems. Designing Satellite TV Systems.

APPENDICES: The Decibel Notation, Satellite TV Equations. Channel-Wavelengths and Bandwiths. Glossary. Manufacturers of Satellite TV Equipment. Trade and Reference Publications.