Universal Satellites Automatic Location System
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Universal Satellites Automatic Location System (USALS), also known (unofficially) as DiSEqC 1.3, Go X or Go to XX is a satellite dish motor protocol that automatically creates a list of available satellite positions in a motorised satellite dish setup. It is used in conjunction with the DiSEqC 1.2 protocol. It was developed by STAB, an Italian motor manufacturer, who still make the majority of USALS compatible motors.
Software on the satellite receiver (or external positioner) calculates the position of all available satellites from an initial location (input by the user), which is the latitude and longitude relative to Earth. Calculated positions can differ ±0.1 degrees from the offset. This is adjusted automatically and does not require previous technical knowledge.
Compared to DiSEqC 1.2, it is no longer necessary to manually search and store every known satellite position. Just by pointing to a known satellite position (for example 19.2ºE) is enough. This position will act as the central point. The USALS system will then calculate visible satellites position within the offset.
It is advisable to align to the satellite most southern to your position, (for northern hemisphere locations) or northern to your position (for southern hemisphere locations).
As it is not an open standard, for a receiver to carry the USALS logo it must undergo a certification test STAB's laboratories. If successful the manufacturer can include a USALS settings entry in its own menu, as well as place the logo on the front of their unit. However, a large number of manufacturers of both receivers and motors provide compatible modes which have not received certification, leading to use of unofficial terms.
