Calculate Your LNB Skew Angle
Enter your installation location and satellite orbital slot in decimal degrees.
Sign convention: North/East are positive, South/West are negative.
What Is LNB Skew Angle?
LNB skew angle (also called LNB tilt or polarization angle) is the rotation you apply to the LNB on your satellite dish so that it matches the transmitted signal polarization from a geostationary satellite. If your skew is off, signal quality can drop even when azimuth and elevation are correctly aligned.
In practical terms, skew helps separate horizontal and vertical (or left/right circular, depending on system) components of the incoming signal. Accurate skew improves signal-to-noise ratio and reduces interference from adjacent transponders.
How This Calculator Works
This page uses a standard approximation for geostationary satellite polarization tilt:
Skew = atan( sin(Δλ) / tan(φ) )
- φ = your site latitude in degrees
- Δλ = (satellite longitude − site longitude), normalized to −180° to +180°
The output is shown in degrees, along with direction guidance for both “front-of-dish view” and “behind-dish installer view,” because manufacturers and manuals often use opposite reference directions.
How to Use the Calculator
1) Enter your location
Use decimal coordinates for your installation site. For example, New York is approximately latitude 40.7128 and longitude -74.0060.
2) Enter satellite longitude
For a satellite at 97°W, enter -97. For 19.2°E, enter 19.2.
3) Click “Calculate Skew”
You’ll get:
- Calculated skew angle
- Longitude offset (Δλ)
- Rotation direction guidance
Field Tips for Better Results
- Set mast plumb before any alignment. A tilted mast throws off elevation and skew readings.
- Rough in azimuth/elevation first, then fine-tune skew while monitoring quality (not just strength).
- Tighten LNB clamp evenly to prevent rotation drift.
- Use small adjustment increments (1–2°) near final lock.
Common Mistakes
Using the wrong sign for longitude
East is positive and West is negative in this calculator. Reversed signs can produce a perfectly wrong answer.
Confusing front and back viewing direction
Rotation direction appears opposite depending on whether you are looking at the dish face or standing behind the dish. This tool reports both to avoid confusion.
Skipping final signal-quality optimization
Calculated skew is a starting point. Real installations still require final tuning due to mounting tolerances and local conditions.
Quick FAQ
Is skew always required?
For many linear-polarized services, yes—especially farther from the satellite’s reference longitude. Some circular systems are less sensitive, but correct LNB orientation still matters.
Why do online tools give different signs?
Different tools use different viewing conventions and definitions of clockwise/counterclockwise. Always check the stated convention.
Can I use this for motorized dishes?
Yes, as a reference for a specific satellite position. Motorized setups still need proper arc tracking and mechanical setup.