Quote:
Originally Posted by mfantin
Hey wleeb,
I have a factory installed XM radio and have very bad reception because the antenna is installed on the left windsheild under the state inspection sticker.
I like where you installed the Sirus radio antenna in the front speaker. Do you receive good reception?
Please let me know. I might have the dealer move the antenna to the front speaker location.
Thanks  |
Ok first and foremost I am not a satellite radio expert so with that disclaimer in place, I will share what little I do know.
This is only the second day after the install and the reception so far is great, but I have not been on a long trip yet so this may change?
Keep in mind that XM and Sirius reception quality given antenna location will be uniquely different and is highly dependant on where you are located in relation to the respective satellites. Each company uses a much different strategy to signal transmission. XM uses geostationary satellites located at the equator versus Sirius satellites that are in geosynchronous orbit, see the picture below.
Both XM and Sirius use a network of antennas/repeaters on buildings and towers that receive satellite signals then retransmits them in areas where the possibility of signal loss is the greatest. The difference is Sirius does not need as many repeaters given their geosynchronous approach.
With that being said, my gut feeling is moving the antenna from the corner of the dash to the center will not result in a significant improvement in signal reception and will probably make it worse. More of the roof that can obscure line of sight with the satellite will be in play. The reason I choose this location over others is the ease of installation and the fact that the antenna is hidden from view.
If your current reception is unsatisfactory you may entertain putting it on your roof. From a reception point of view this is the best location, up there no part of the vehicle can obscure line of sight with the satellite. Check out pedro66's most excellent thread regarding a Permanent Sirius Antenna Installation .