Satellite Dish Antenna: Definition and Function

A satellite dish antenna, similar in shape to a parabolic dish, is designed to receive satellite frequency signals.

Most dishes are designed to only receive signals. However, some dishes, often used in VSAT (Very Small Aperture Terminal) applications, can both transmit and receive electromagnetic signals. Dish antennas primarily serve as the interface between a satellite and a TV set.

Nowadays, the dish antenna is connected to a Set-Top-Box (STB) inside the house using a cable. All signals received by the dish are directed to the LNB (Low Noise Block converter), which then connects to the TV set via the set-top box. The set-top box allows the user to select and tune digital channels.