SIRIUS antennae receive signals from a satellite in space.
If you're having trouble with your SIRIUS satellite radio, it's likely that part of the problem is the antenna. Because SIRIUS gets reception via a satellite in space, it's very important to mount your antenna correctly so that it can efficiently receive signal. You should also check the way you've installed the antenna and pay attention to the error messages you get from the radio in order to determine what the problem is.
Mounting the Antenna
Although you have the option of mounting many SIRUIS antennae on the wall of your car, SIRIUS Satellite Radios recommends always installing it on your roof. This is where you'll get the best possible signal. Acceptable roof locations are in the middle of the roof, three inches above the back window, or three inches above the front windshield. If there's another antenna already installed on your roof, make sure to install your SIRIUS antenna at lease three inches away from it to avoid interference.
The best location for the antenna depends largely on where you live. This is because you can actually position the antenna so that it's facing the SIRIUS satellite. If you live in the Northwest, you can mount the antenna facing east or northeast; in the Southwest, mount it facing north or northeast; in the Southeast, mount it facing north or northwest; in the Northeast, mount it facing west or northwest; in the Midwest, mount the antenna directly on top of your roof.
If you have a roof rack, be sure the antenna is clear of it. Either adjust the roof rack so that the antenna has a clear "view," or move the antenna to the middle of the roof, where any racks aren't obstructing the signal.
Proper Installation
If your SIRIUS radio is giving you the error message "antenna error" or "check antenna," you might not have the antenna installed correctly. Check that the cable connections from the radio to the antenna are secure. Also, make sure the AUX IN cable is properly connected. One end should be plugged into the AUX, AUX IN or LINE IN port on the SIRIUS radio and the other end should be plugged into the AUDIO, AUDIO OUT or LINE OUT port on your car's radio.
Other Problems
If the error message on your radio says "acquiring signal," make sure you're outdoors with a clear view of the sky. If you're in a parking garage, especially an underground one, you probably won't get signal until you're outside.
If there is a lot of static, make sure the FM channel you're using is available, or contains only static or silence. If you hear any talking or music in the background, the station is not available, and the signal to that station will interfere with your SIRIUS radio's signal. You can find an available FM station in your area on SIRIUS's website.
Also, be aware that if you're driving in the city, tall structures might interfere with your signal. Signal also varies by time of day, so you may just need to wait for better signal.
Tags: your SIRIUS, make sure, mount facing, SIRIUS radio, three inches
