Theoretically, anything can be made to actually receive signals to a certain extent. But the shape that we all
know of, which is that distinct dish shape, has been found as the best shape to receive those signals. With that
wide parabolic shape, it "catches" those signals like how a big net can catch schools of fish. Because of that,
application of this technology was made much simpler than anyone would have imagined during its days of
conception.
There is common misconception that the feedhorn is the thing that receives the signals. This may be true, but
the signals do not go to it directly. Instead, the dish's purpose is fulfilled by catching the signals and due
to its parabolic shape, can bounce them onto the feedhorn itself. The funny shape is not there without any
logical reason. The dish of the satellite receiver was an ingenious solution to the problem of signal reception.
With that particular shape, the satellite can receive more signals than a conventional antenna, thus fulfilling
its purpose with a higher rate of efficiency.
Satellite receivers are classified as reflector antennas, and any material that reflects radio waves can be used
to create the dish. They can range from trash can lids, curved pieces of plastic, to the conventional satellite
receiver available in the market. This variety of sources makes satellite receivers possible to be made by anyone
with enough knowledge in electronics and communications. This scenario does seem like something out of a science
fiction novel, but it is possible and very handy to know about.
The disadvantage, though, is almost like that of a conventional antenna. Things such as raid fade, grounding,
birds perching on it, thunderstorms, and maybe even the occasional solar flare can cause interruptions with the
feed. It is crucial that the satellite receiver be placed at a strategic location where the possibility of
interruptions is at its lowest. There are motorized satellite receivers available for this purpose, which can
turn 360 degrees, although they can be more expensive than conventional ones.
The important point is to care for the satellite receivers and make sure that they are hooked up right to ensure
its long service life. Technology can get you far to a certain extent, but if you do not care for it, then you
may break it.
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