Draft - Microwave FAQs

Find answers to Frequently Asked Questions about our microwave products in the categories below. For further assistance, please contact us.

 

Troubleshooting

I’m not getting any output power from my BUC. What’s wrong?
Most Norsat BUCs require one or more of these multiplexed components on the input coaxial cable: 24V DC, 10 Mhz Reference, L-band signal. Please consult the specification sheet for the BUC model you are using, and ensure that incoming signal is set up for the BUCs requirements. If you require a Bias-T to inject the DC voltage or reference signal, please contact our Microwave Components sales department for more information.

 

My transmit/receive frequency is not what I was expecting? What’s going on?

Ensure that the L.O. for the component you are using is what you and your modem are expecting. Note that several of our LNBs and BUCs can be switched between several frequency bands, and that the L.O. will change depending on which band is selected.
How do I prevent water, sand and other environmental elements from permeating the waveguide?
During installation, ensure that O-rings are correctly installed in all joints, and that the protective tape is intact at the openings of the components.
How can I tell if my component is working?
A working component will draw an appropriate amount of current from whichever input is supplying its DC voltage. LNBs should draw 100-200mA whereas BUCs should draw over 500mA when transmitting. Norsat-built terminals running our proprietary LinkControlTM software have built-in diagnostic tools which will display the current draw of components within the software interface.  Norsat can also supply an inline current/voltage meter which will enable you to easily measure this current when it is supplied through the centre pin of a coaxial cable.

Installation and Set-Up

How do I integrate my LNB with my system?

Use the instructions and checklist below for for the integration process.

My receiver is not supplying a 10 MHz reference. How do I connect an external receiver signal?
How should my LNB be connected to the receiver?
The LNB / BUC was shipped with clear plastic tape over the waveguide. Should I remove it?
Some of our LNBs and BUCs will be supplied with clear plastic tape over the waveguide openings. This tape is intended to remain in place during operation in order to prevent water and dirt from entering the component. If this protective tape becomes damaged, it can be replaced in the field; however you need to make sure that the replacement tape will not degrade the signal. We recommend Kapton® tape for this purpose.
Does my BUC/LNB other component require external power?
BUCs rated at 8W and above will typically be powered by through a discrete DC connector. Please refer to the BUC specification sheet for the requirements.
Should I use electrically conductive or non-conductive O-rings?
Non-conductive O-rings may be used for most installations. For high power BUCs however, there may be circumstances were using conductive O-rings are preferable. If you are unsure, please contact our support department with a detailed system description.

Support and Warranty

Can I open up my component to clean or view its parts?
Our microwave components do not contain user-serviceable parts, and breaking the service seal will void the warranty. Please contact our support department if you suspect that you have a faulty component.
What is your standard warranty period?
We offer an industry leading 3 year warranty on all standard LNBs and a 1 year warranty on other microwave products.
If I contact you for support or warranty, what information will you need?

Please have your microwave product label ready, to provide us with your product name, specifications and order number.  The sample label below contains all the information we will need to assist you.