HughesNet Spaceway installs require the installer to enter the geographical latitude and longitude coordinates (lat/long) of the installed antenna into the ST LUI (Local User Interface). The ST software uses this information to determine the uplink and downlink cells to which the ST is to be assigned.

The lat/long of the installed Satellite Internet Dish will be determined by a GPS carried by the installer to the site. This paper provides background information on the commercial GPS handheld units that can be used for the purpose, and can form the basis for recommendations to HugheNet installers.

There are several manufacturers of GPS units, and several types of GPS units made by each manufacturer. Some of these units are suitable for Spaceway installers, while others are not. A description of the types of available GPS units and their applications is given in this paper.