Satellite
Horizon produced a wide variety of satellite installation meters. Please scroll down for more information and downloads.
HDSM v1.0 v2.0 v2.2 v2.5 (older serial interface models)
The older v1, v2, v2.2, and v2.5 HDSM featured a serial interface for updates via an RJ45 socket on the side of the meter and came supplied with a custom programming lead (see wiring diagram PDF below). This is not a network interface. The HDSM could store 32 transponder selections and had a 4 line 16 character LCD back-lit display. The original battery was a 7.2V 2700 mAh Ni-MH 6 cell pack. The serial models can use the 7.2V 3300 mAH battery packs that are more widely available however you should check that they are supplied with an adaptor for the smaller battery connector. To update these meters from a modern Windows computer (without a serial interface) it will be necessary to obtain a USB to Serial adaptor, you will still need the original programming lead (joining the cables together). If you are using a USB to Serial adaptor you will need to configure it as COM1, COM2 , COM3 or COM4 in the Windows device manager (use the first COM that is not in use). The HDSM is a DVB-S only meter. The input connectors can become worn over many years of use so port saver male to female F connectors are recommended to prevent further damage and extend its lifespan.
Horizon Serial Interface Cable.pdf
HDSM SatEdit Software.zip (Windows executable)
Example HDSM SATS.zip contains SatEdit and .pat .lst .hex files
HDSM SatMeter v1.04 loading program.zip (Serial version Windows Executable requires .hex files)
New Hex file with Astra-2 including Wideband LNB UK_250206.hex
HDSM USB Satellite Meters
HDSM USB (shown above) and HDSM USB PLUS models featured a 128 x 64 pixel back-lit LCD display that was capable of simple graphics and featured a more convenient USB interface for updating transponder lists. The HDSM USB models could store up to 64 transponders and the USB PLUS featured spectrum and QPSK constellation display modes. Both the HDSM USB and USB PLUS can use the SatEdit software to create transponder lists.
For the most part USB driver installation took place automatically on connecting the HDSM USB, USB PLUS via usb to a Windows computer. However, the FTDI USB drivers are also available for download and manual installation if required.
FTDI Chip USB Drivers CDM212364_Setup.zip
HDSM SatEdit Software.zip (Windows executable)
Example HDSM SATS.zip contains SatEdit and .pat .lst .hex files
HDSM SatMeter v1.23.zip (windows executable loading program requires .hex files)
New Hex file with Astra-2 including Wideband LNB UK_250206.hex
HDSM Log Reader v1-2.zip (Windows software for extracting logged transponder data)
HDSM USB PLUS Tele-Satellite article.pdf
HD-TC8
The HD-TC8 was a VSAT meter that supported Turbo Code modulation, but not DVB-S2. This was specific to the tooway internet via satellite service available in Europe and featured a 30V DC output required to power the the tooway ODU directly. It featured interchangeable F barrels, Li-ion / Li-Po battery, 4 transponder lists (up to 256 selections per list) and could be reprogrammed via USB. HD-TC8 downloads are not available but custom carrier mode may still be used.
HD-S2 and HD-S2A
The main difference between the HD-S2 and the HD-S2A was that the HD-S2A featured a DVB-S2 ACM compatible tuner with additional 22kHz tone functions required for use with Hughes Network Europe VSAT hardware. These meters could store up to 256 transponder settings split over 4 lists. Spectrum, constellation and extensive data-logging were also featured. The HD-S2A was specifically the aimed that the VSAT and DTH satellite market for the increasing number of DVB-S2 ACM satellite services available.
FTDI Chip USB Drivers CDM212364_Setup.zip
HD-S2 Log Reader.zip (Windows executable)
HD-S2 Tele-Satellite Article.pdf
MiniSAT
The MiniSAT is a simple, rechargeable battery powered, dual input analogue satellite signal meter. The MiniSAT could generate 13/18V DC and 22kHz tone and featured signal loop through to display receiver voltage, tone and also display any DiSEqC command information sent from the set top box. The measurement scale was from 0 to 10 and was an indication of the RF level received, this meter did not feature satellite ID or indicate a lock. The MiniSAT was supplied with a carry case, basic user guide, connecting leads, AC charger, in-car charger and quite a good magnetic compass.
NanoSAT
The NanoSAT was unique among DVB-S satellite meters as it featured a directional system to tell you which way to move the satellite dish towards the target satellite! Countdown markers were used to indicate how far away you were from target and a lock tone and signal strength indicator helped when peaking up on the required satellite. A single button did all of the functions. Press and hold to power On or power Off and Tap the button to select the satellite from a list of 4 satellites. Variants included the MXL-090 by Maxview and the DSM-4S by Manhattan.
Tele-Satellite NanoSAT article.pdf
NanoSAT S2 / S2A
Nano-S2 was aimed at the VSAT market rather than DTH satellite television. An external power pack was made available where received loop through power was not available. The signal level, Pre-BER and lock indicator were shown on the display in a similar style to the HD-S2. The Nano-S2A featured the 22kHz tone function for use with Hughes VSAT terminals.