CHAPTER 2
Okay... the customer has purchased a Magellan MSS
and it's your job to arrange an installation time and
to gather information to move the installation forward.
I can not stress enough how important it is to gather
the correct information before the installation date.
You will literally save hours off of your installation
and make the whole process much more enjoyable.
a. Mobile Site Survey (over the phone).
STEP 1 - The Site Survey Form.
Use this form when you are speaking with the buyer
to set up the installation. Please take a moment to
review each question.
It's a good idea to print out this document and have a few on hand when you first
call up or meet with the customer.
While the MSS is self contained, installation of the system will require a connected computer
to commission the Direcway Modem as well as performing such things as compass calibration
the dish. While Installers should use their own laptop computer for all installations, the
customer should be shown how to access the MSS from their computer.
1. Is there an available and operational Server or PC in the RV?
2. What do you plan to use your Mobile Internet System for?
It's great to listen to what the customer wishes to use their system for. Try to
get very familiar with what the customer is trying to accomplish.
Internet - This is obvious.
Networking - You need to find how how extensive the networking will be. Installation does not include networking, which will need to be worked out between you and the customer for additional charges if any.
Television - The customer will need to purchase a Universal Bracket that needs to be installed.
Phone - You will need to start an IG-VOIP account for the customer.
VPN - This one is a bit more tricky. Not all VPN's work over satellite. Please use the help of a Ground Control sales rep for more information.
3. Where do you plan to use your Mobile Internet System?
10. Is there an electrical outlet in the area where the install will take place?
Obviously depending where a customer goes will be a dertimining factor on which satellite they
will want to be assigned to. Each Direcway satellite footprint is different.
The MSS requires AC power to operate, so this is most likely the case
with all installation. However, this is not always the case, so this question
needs to be asked. The customer must install an Inverter (DC to AC power)
if they do not currently have AC power in their vehicle.
STEP 2 - Set up the Installation Time & Date
End of section
Give yourself at least two days for installing
an MSS the first time you do an install.
As you get better, you'll know how to reduce
the installation time to hours. The extra time
is needed when you run into problems... like
a computer glitch.
As much as we love our customers, it is not
always wise to have them looking over your
shoulder when you're doing the installation.
However, it is often necessary to contact the
buyer at a moments notice, so please make
sure they have a cell phone, or are located
close by.
4. What kind of vehicle of trailer is the system going to be installed on?
Not all vehicles are alike. Installation on a Ford 150 is different than installation on top of
an RV.
5. What material is the vehicle roof made of?
Wood, Metal, Aluminum, Fiberglass? This will deturmine the best kind of screws used
to fasten the dish to the roof.
6. Is there a clear space on the roof at least 49" by 41"?
If there isn't enough space, the MSS will not install correctly. Also, the MSS is
not to be installed SIDEWAYS, so make sure the 49" is for the length. Also, if
the roof is not relatively flat, the DataStorm will not find the satellite quickly, and
when traveling, the vehicle will put an undue burden on the gears of the system.
Many times, developing a specialized bracket for a roof will solve any problems
associated with awkward space or non-level situations. It is recommend that you
use aluminum channel and stainless steel screws to develop any bracketing
you attach the DataStorm to.
7. Is there a magnetic disturbance on the roof?
Placing the dish over a stereo speaker mounted in the RV ceiling has caused
problems for some installation. Make sure the roof is free of magnetic disturbances
before performing an installation. (you may need to move a speaker).
8. Do you have a schematic or blue print of the vehicle?
It can't hurt to ask, and it will be helpful to avoid drilling into cables.
9. Where in the vehicle would you like the modem mounted?
While it is true the modem must be well ventilated, it may also be placed
on its side. Have the customer choose a viable location. The Linksys
Router and Power Bar are normally located near the Direcway modem, but
it is not mandatory. Remember the MSS is a wireless system, which means
you may not need to run Ethernet cable to conputers inside the vehicle.
11. Is there a ladder on the RV that will allow equipment to be brought to the roof?
You will need to bring your own ladder if none is on the RV.
12. Do you require a public IP address? If yes, how many?
Advanced users will know if they require a public (static) IP address. If they don't
know, then they do not need one.
Now take a look at the back side of the Mobile Site Survey. It is important to understand each of the items listed if you are being contracted by Ground Control to perform an installation.
