Section 4 - (4.1 - 4.5) - Site Survey and Selection

Creation date: 10/28/2020 2:29 PM Updated: 12/23/2020 1:57 PM odn field services manual service manual excerpt site survey

Site Survey and Selection

A site survey should be performed prior to the installation or equipment delivery to assess that all the conditions for a proper site installation can be met at the desired location. Assumptions about the appropriate equipment and materials cannot be made until the potential site is assessed in person.

ODN will provide the technician with a site survey document to complete. Additionally, photographs should be taken and submitted of all relevant details. Site survey document should be validated by ODN or a certified VSAT technician before installation can begin.

4.1 - Mounting Type Selection

There are many options for mounting VSAT antennas. Determining the right mounting option will require an understanding of the site location, available space, and the customers’ requirements.

Some of the most command antenna configurations are:

1. 1.8-meter antenna using a non-penetrating mount on the ground (requires an 11’ X 11’ level area) [Figure 4.1.1]

2. 1.2-meter antenna using a non-penetrating mount on a flat roof. (requires a 6’ X 6.5’ sturdy, flat roof area) [Figure 4.1.2]

[Figure 4.1.1] [Figure 4.1.2]

3. 1.2-meter antenna using a tower-leg bracket mount. [Figure 4.1.3]

4. 1.8-meter antenna using a non-penetrating mount on a flat roof (requires a well-supported 11’ X 11’ flat roof area.) [Figure 4.1.4]

[Figure 4.1.3] [Figure 4.1.4]

5. 1.2-meter wall bracket mount. (requires structural wall) [Figure 4.1.5]

6. 1.2-meter or 1.8m post mount (requires post to be installed) [Figure 4.1.6]

[Figure 4.1.5] [Figure 4.1.6]

4.2 - Property Ownership

Property ownership should be validated with the customer and intended VSAT location should be discussed to determine if that location is acceptable to the customer / property owner. There will likely be exceptions to what we consider the standard site template. A surveyor can assume the satellite antenna should be within a reasonable vicinity of the modem, a grounding source, and have a clear line-of-sight (further described below.) Regardless of the variations, the surveyor should perform the site survey, taking photos of functional, secure options and notes of any contact information useful for authorizing the proposed antenna location if available. Authorizations will be worked out before equipment is delivered if the options are viable.

4.3 - Line of Sight

The view of the target satellite from the antenna cannot be obstructed. From the perspective of the antenna, the line-of-sight should be clear in all directions by at least 10 degrees from the satellite’s location in the sky. The line-of-sight should also be safe from tree growth, seasonal foliage changes and future development. Often there are several options at a location for a clear line-of-sight but in combination with other deciding factors there is almost always one best option.

4.4 - Security & Access

The antenna should be safe from tampering and unauthorized access, such as within a locked fence, or on a roof top. Potential damage from livestock or wild animals should also be taken into consideration if the location warrants concern.

In addition, it should be noted whether the installer will have full unattended access to the grounds and equipment room at the site during installation, or if there will need to be a representative of the organization to access the facility.

4.5 - Other Site Survey Considerations

Due to the variability of VSAT site installation locations it is impossible to list every consideration in this document. Surveyors should use their experience, judgement, and training to determine any areas of interest during a site survey. Ultimately the goal is to determine if a VSAT installation can be completed at the location and if so, the best way to conduct said installation.

Some additional considerations are:

The antenna should have access to a ground bus, either on the tower or the equipment shelter.
The outdoor wiring path should take the shortest route that does not present an obstacle to vehicles or personnel. The RG6 RF cable from the modem to the antenna cannot exceed 150 feet in length.
If there will be a de-icer unit on the antenna, a 120V outdoor GFI outlet should be available. Also, it should be noted whether the outlet functions.
It should be noted whether there is enough room to store an initial delivery of equipment within the fenced or secured area at the site.
If the site location is tricky to find, park near, or has seasonal limitations for access, make note of the unique challenges to accessing or delivering equipment to the site.