While looking for information about various satellite antennas, I compiled a list of the pros and cons for each system. With that information I’ve put together a fact sheet. This fact sheet will start with the simplest, most inexpensive system and progress to the most complex and costly system.

Portable System

Plus
• Lowest cost
• More likely to find a position for unobstructed view of satellite
• Can be used as a backup for more complex systems, if room is available
• Various mounting methods available to match your needs
Minus
• Must find the satellite yourself no matter how difficult and frustrating
• May have to set up the antenna in bad weather
• Can be a nuisance if you are changing campsites often

Hand Crank System (mounted on roof)

Plus
• Relatively low cost
• High signal gain
• Easy to operate
• Sets up from inside motorhome out of the weather
Minus
• Still must find the satellite manually
• Must position motorhome to keep satellite from being blocked by obstacles

Standard Automatic Antenna

Plus
• Highest possible signal gain
• Works in rain and fog
• Several manufacturers to choose from
• Automatically finds primary satellite or secondary satellite
• Newer models have built-in GPS system to find satellite fast
• Very easy to operate
• Sturdy in wind
• Automatically stows in travel position
Minus
• Requires positioning of motorhome to avoid obstacles
• Some antennas made of steel and may rust

Dome Covered Automatic Antenna*

Plus
• Very easy to operate
• Finds primary or alternate satellite automatically
• Some antennas can be modified for "In-motion" operation
• Very wind resistant
• Always "Up" and ready to find satellite
• Manufactured by several companies
Minus
• Antenna surface smaller resulting in lower signal gain
• Water coats dome in rain and fog - can cause signal interruption
• In humid climates, condensation can cause temporary loss of signal
• Must move motorhome to avoid obstacles between antenna and satellite

In Motion Dome Covered Antenna*

Plus
• Can watch TV while the motorhome is in motion
• Very easy to operate
• Finds primary or alternate satellite automatically
• Very wind resistant
• Always "Up" and ready to find satellite
• Antennas manufactured by several companies
Minus
• Antenna surface smaller resulting in lower signal gain
• Water coats dome in rain and fog while motorhome is stationary - can cause signal interruption
• While motorhome is stationary in humid climates, condensation can cause temporary loss of signal
• Must select campsite that avoids obstacles between antenna and satellite

* Dome covered antennas should not be painted or waxed. Paint will weaken the signal from the satellite. Waxing a dome will cause water to bead up which will also reduce signal strength. On a smooth surfaced dome, a coating of a Rain-X product will help to remove water and/or condensation from the dome. For domes with a dimpled surface, a coating of dishwashing detergent will help to keep rain and condensation off the dome.

NOTE: Since the content of the original page was written, there now are special solutions that are made just for coating a dome to prevent or reduce the problem of water condensing on the dome. Check with the various satellite dome companies for the products they recommend for their domes.

A great source for more satellite receiver information.

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