The device used to accurately point satellite dishes at orbiting communications satellites is the satellite finder. It uses a meter which measures satellite signals of all satellites orbiting with the same relative position as the earth. The meter measures the satellite signal’s strength and frequency to determine the position in which the satellite dish or Low Noise Block should be pointed.

Generally, there are two kinds of satellite finders. These are the analog satellite finder and the digital satellite finder.

• Analog Satellite Finder. Satellite finders using an analog format are less expensive compared to digital satellite finders. The analog satellite finder merely displays the strength of any signal received in the area. This device is used by pointing both the satellite dish and the Low Noise Block to the perceived direction of the satellite. By viewing the reading on the analog satellite finder, the user can then adjust the satellite dish along with the Low Noise Block to find the strongest signal reading.
• Digital Satellite Finder. Digital satellite finders have a very high price compared to analog satellite finders. This is due to the signal strength meter used by digital satellite finders. Locations of standard or commonly used satellites are stored and pre-programmed in the digital satellite finder. This enhances the satellite finding ability of the device. In an analog satellite finder, the use will know only the amount of signal strength detected. With digital satellite finders, the user will know which satellites are available and which satellites can be detected. This is best used for users who are looking for a particular satellite to receive a particular broadcasted signal.

Satellite finders are usually powered with a DC power supply or a battery pack designed for the device. The power of the satellite receiver may also be used by the satellite finder. Users most observe the correct polarity for their satellite dish and Low Noise Block. Most digital and analog satellite receivers use 22 KHz for tone-switching. The satellite dish should be pointed at the general direction of the intended satellite. The satellite dish should be movable to adjust for signal strength but must still be secured in its position. The sensitivity know of the signal strength meter must be set at its least sensitive position. The user must adjust the sensitivity while also adjusting the satellite dish. The elevation of the satellite dish also plays a factor in satellite signal detection. Users must perform a trial and error method to detect the strongest possible satellite signal.