Product Review:	Birdog Digital Data Stream Identifier
Manufacturer:	Direct Vision
Functionality:
Ease of Use:
Price ( compared to similar models )

Have you ever had the luxury of spending more than 1/2 an hour moving satellite dishes, looking for an elusive satellite? If you are like most broadcast engineers, this has happened to you - on more than one occasion. Then there's the News guy, or Master Control Operator, that asks for that special satellite you've never used before, and can you get it tuned in quickly? (They always seem to go live in 5-10 minutes when they ask).

If this has ever happened to you, then hang on to your hat - THIS is the tool you need!

To compare this to a satellite location meter is a little unfair. Most simple satellite meters simply tell you ( by peak meter reading ) if you are on a satellite, and rough gestimate what the signal level is compared to other birds in the sky.

The Birdog is more than just a simple diode/meter combination. It is a receiver/decoder that picks up the satellite signal, and POSITIVELY IDENTIFIES what satellite you are on! No more guessing if you are on the right satellite. No more wondering which satellite you are looking at. Each satellite puts out, in addition to it's programming, a special data signal called the USID (Unique Satellite Information Data). This data is read and interpreted, so it can not be mistaken for a different satellite. Right Bird - Every Time!

Old timers will appreciate the fact that it has an audible tune-in signal, and a loop-thru, allowing you to connect in series with your favorite sat receiver. Provides power for the LNB.

DVB and DSS compatible, Satellite settings are stored in NVEprom. Software is stored in Flash memory, so future upgrades are a snap.

Reads signal strength and Bit Error Rate simultaneously. The display is backlit - so you could use it at night. Reads both Horizontal and Vertical signals. NiMh Battery operated, with built in charger.

Est. Price - $450 - 550 depending on your negotiation skills ( and your salesperson ).

I give this an overall 9+

Review courtesy of John Winkelmann

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