DIRECTV DCA2SR0-18 Manual

The DIRECTV DCA2SR0-18 is a professional satellite dish antenna designed for residential and commercial use, featuring 18-inch diameter reflector, multi-satellite reception capability, built-in low-noise block downconverter (LNB), weather-resistant construction, easy mounting system, and compatibility with DIRECTV HD and 4K programming. Below are key sections for installation, features, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Connections 6. Connecting to Receiver 7. Signal Alignment 8. Maintenance 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 18-inch parabolic reflector, integrated LNB assembly, mounting bracket, alignment tools, weather seal kit.

Feature	Description
Reflector Size	18-inch diameter parabolic dish
LNB Type	Integrated single/dual output LNB
Frequency Range	12.2-12.7 GHz
Mounting System	Adjustable mast clamp with elevation/azimuth controls
Weather Resistance	UV-protected materials, sealed connectors
Compatibility	DIRECTV HD, 4K, and standard programming
Cable Connection	F-type coaxial connectors
Signal Output	950-2150 MHz IF frequency
Polarization	Circular polarization
Operating Temperature	-40°F to 140°F (-40°C to 60°C)

Installation

Unpack and inspect all components. Choose optimal location with clear view of southern sky.

Mount dish: Secure mast to stable surface using provided hardware.
Attach reflector: Mount dish to mast using bracket assembly.
Connect LNB: Route coaxial cable from LNB to receiver location.
Ground system: Install proper grounding as per local electrical codes.
Weather seal: Apply weatherproofing to all outdoor connections.

WARNING! Ensure secure mounting to withstand wind loads. Maintain safe distance from power lines.

First-Time Setup

Complete dish alignment and receiver configuration.

Initial alignment: Set approximate elevation and azimuth using included angle gauge.
Connect to receiver: Run coaxial cable from dish to DIRECTV receiver.
Signal acquisition: Use receiver signal meter for fine adjustment.
Peak signal: Adjust elevation, azimuth, and skew for maximum signal strength.
Secure settings: Tighten all adjustment bolts once optimal signal achieved.

CAUTION! Use proper safety equipment when working at heights. Avoid contact with sharp edges.

Specifications

Dish Diameter: 18 inches (45.7 cm)
LNB Noise Figure: 0.8 dB typical
Frequency Range: 12.2-12.7 GHz (Ku-band)
IF Output: 950-2150 MHz
Polarization: Circular (RHCP/LHCP)
Gain: 33.5 dBi at 12.45 GHz
Mounting: Mast diameter 1.5-2.0 inches
Wind Survival: 100 mph (160 km/h)
Weight: 4.2 lbs (1.9 kg)
Material: UV-stabilized polypropylene

Controls and Connections

Physical adjustments: Elevation scale, azimuth rotation, LNB skew adjustment.

Connections: F-type coaxial output(s), grounding lug, mast clamp.

Alignment: Elevation adjustment (20°-60°), azimuth rotation (0°-360°), skew adjustment (±90°). Mounting: Mast clamp for 1.5-2.0 inch diameter poles. Cable: RG-6 coaxial cable recommended for optimal performance.

Connecting to Receiver

Single receiver: Direct coaxial connection. Multiple receivers: Use multi-switch or splitter as needed.

Turn off receiver before making connections.
Route coaxial cable from dish LNB to receiver location.
Use weatherproof connectors for outdoor connections.
Connect to satellite input on DIRECTV receiver.
Run receiver setup to detect satellite signal.

Tip: Use quality RG-6 coaxial cable and compression connectors for best performance.

Signal Alignment

Optimal signal requires precise dish positioning.

Set elevation: Use angle gauge for approximate satellite elevation.
Set azimuth: Point dish toward general southern direction.
Connect meter: Use signal meter or receiver signal strength display.
Fine adjustment: Slowly adjust azimuth while monitoring signal strength.
Elevation adjustment: Fine-tune elevation for peak signal.
Skew adjustment: Rotate LNB for optimal polarization alignment.
Secure position: Tighten all adjustment bolts without moving dish.

WARNING! Do not overtighten adjustment bolts. Check alignment after severe weather.

Maintenance

Regular inspection and cleaning for optimal performance.

Visual inspection: Check for physical damage or loose components.
Clean reflector: Use soft cloth and mild detergent if needed.
Check connections: Ensure all connectors are tight and weatherproof.
Verify alignment: Confirm dish hasn't moved from optimal position.
Remove obstructions: Clear snow, leaves, or debris from dish surface.

CAUTION! Do not use abrasive cleaners. Avoid climbing on unstable surfaces.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 25: Satellite earth station compliance. UL listed for safety standards. Copyright © 2024 DIRECTV. For technical support, visit www.directv.com/help or contact 1-800-531-5000. Professional installation recommended for optimal performance and safety.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No signal	Dish misalignment/obstruction	Check dish alignment; remove obstructions; verify connections.
Weak signal	Loose connections/weather	Tighten all connectors; check for cable damage; wait for severe weather to pass.
Intermittent signal	Loose mount/cable issues	Secure mounting hardware; inspect cables for damage; check connectors.
Signal loss on multiple receivers	LNB failure	Test LNB output; replace if defective; check multi-switch if used.
Poor picture quality	Signal strength/alignment	Re-align dish for maximum signal; check for interference sources.

Reset: Re-align dish and run receiver satellite setup.

Service: 1-800-531-5000; www.directv.com/help