Mesh vs Solid dish

Ros Man

Hi,
I am aware I can use my old 90cm mesh dish for digital reception. But, would a solid dish be better or does it make any difference.
Thanks

Greenman

They say solid is a better receiver but what do you want to receive and where are you?

Capt'n Midnight

The holes reduce wind loading.

And as long as they are a good bit smaller than a quarter of a wavelength it should not affect the signal too much.

10GHz = 3cm Satellite
2.5GHz = 12cm MMDS

Ros Man

I am in the west of Ireland and for now I am just interested in 13, 19 and 28. Also, I am planning to place the dish in the attic behind a large glass skylight. I believe from reading other treads that this should be ok.

watty

The holes reduce weight thus shipping cost

no effect on wind loading

1/10th wavelength is rule of thumb so:
2.5GHz approx 12 cm MMDS is 1cm or 1/2" approx holes
10Ghz 3 cm approx Ku band is 3mm or 1/8" approx holes

Capt'n Midnight

Ok we'll agree to differ - but I still reckon that an MMDS dish has less wind loading than a solid one