1.) What is a PDQ Signal Stand?
2.)How is the PDQ Signal Stand different from other stands?
3.) What tools are needed to set up the stand?
4.) How do I check for an unobstructed satellite view?
5.) How can I tell if I have a clear shot to receive multiple satellite signals?
6.) Will I always get a signal?
7.) Does the stand need to be setup on level ground?
8.) Where do the settings, azimuth, elevation and skew/tilt come from?
9.) Will the stand work in windy conditions?
10.) Do the locking nuts need to be tight?
11.) Does the stand come with satellite dish or LNB?

1.) What is a PDQ Signal Stand? (Back to Top)
It’s a stand to hold the satellite providers dish antenna, the base has a large compass with an easy to read Azimuth gauge.

2.) How is the PDQ Signal Stand different from other stands? (Back to Top)
The PDQ Signal Stand is not a tripod, and can be set up with a small footprint. Since tripod stands have no gauges, all adjustments must be made directly to the dish gauges when searching for a satellite signal. This makes setup and signal reception complicated and time consuming. With the PDQ Signal Stand, the gauges are are built-in to the stand itself, allowing you to make adjustments without touching the dish. After the first use of the PDQ Signal Stand, when calibration is required, setup through to signal reception should take less than 10 minutes.

3.) What tools are needed to set up the stand? (Back to Top)
For the Standard Model Stand, no tools are needed for setup. For the HD Model Stand, a ½" socket is required.

4.) How do I check for an unobstructed satellite view? (Back to Top)
By using a mirrored periscope design, we have created a Line of Sight Tool called, "LOST." LOST is keyed to correspond exactly with the dish post, giving LOST the same line of sight as the dish. To check for an obstructed view, remove the dish and place LOST onto the stand. LOST will reflect the actual line of sight, allowing you to check for signal obstructions. Even in a wooded area, LOST can help you lock onto a strong signal.

Note: When using multi-satellite dishes, remember to check 10 degrees on each side of the azimuth center point setting, to establish an unobstructed span. For more details, see FAQ below: "How can I tell if I have a clear shot to receive multiple satellite signals?"

5.) How can I tell if I have a clear shot to receive multiple satellite signals? (Back to Top)
To secure signals from multiple satellites, you need to determine the degree spread for satellites that your dish will receive signals from. For example: DirecTV HD SlimLine dish receives signals from satellites at 99°, 101°, 103°, 110° and 119°, indicating a degree spread (from 99° to 119 °) of 20°. This means the line of sight degree spread is 20°.

To start, connect the dish to your television and reference the setup menu. Input the zip code of your location. Then, using the azimuth displayed in the setup menu as the degree spread center point, you can determine beginning and ending azimuth points.

Next, using “LOST” in place of the dish, check the mirror for any obstacles within the determined azimuth span. If an obstacle is present, the satellite in that location will have a weak or lost signal. Your satellite network provider can tell you which channels are carried by each satellite and help you determine if you can accept a weak or lost signal for your location.

6.) Will I always get a signal? (Back to Top)
With no fault to the PDQ Stand, sometimes you may not get a signal. Based on your location, a clear line of sight to the satellites may be impossible. Depending on the dish used and the number of satellites sending signals to the LBN, an opening between 1 and 20 degrees wide is needed to secure a signal. In short: no opening, no signal.

7.) Does the stand need to be setup on level ground? (Back to Top)
The stand has 4 legs that have 7.5" of adjustment for each leg, within the 17" x 14" stand area. Since the base of the PDQ Stand is a compass with accurate azimuth readings and built-in levels, the mast can be plumbed even on hilly terrain.

8.) Where do the settings, azimuth, elevation and skew/tilt come from? (Back to Top)
Most providers have an antenna installation screen menu to help with these settings. Consult the receiver's manual to connect the dish to your television and then display the setup menu. Use the zip code of your setup location to display the azimuth, elevation and skew/tilt. Need additional help? See our "Dish Setting Look-Up" page.

9.) Will the stand work in windy conditions? (Back to Top)
The product has been tested under windy conditions with good results. However, if strong, persistently windy conditions prevail, these actions will help:
• Use 10 or 15 lb. dumbbells on the built-in weight holders.
• If line of sight will allow, remove the extension piece.
• Adjust legs to position the stand base as close to the ground as possible.

To keep shipping costs at a minimum, Delsand LLC does not furnish dumbbell weights which can be purchased from your local sporting goods retailer.

Still need more help? Delsand also offers a High Wind Kit.

10.) Do the locking nuts need to be tight? (Back to Top)
No. The locking nuts are designed to keep the legs affixed and stable. After using the levels, simply finger-tighten the locking nuts to plumb the mast.

11.) Does the stand come with satellite dish or LNB? (Back to Top)
No. Your satellite provider will furnish an antenna and LNB.