As you can see that an XY-axis mount is commonly used in antenna systems to provide precise positioning in both azimuth (X-axis) and elevation (Y-axis). This setup is particularly useful for applications requiring tracking moving objects (e.g., satellites, drones, or aircraft) or adjusting antenna beams dynamically. In this configuration, the antenna is pointed by coordinating the rotation of two axes, which is different from the elevation-over-azimuth system in which the azimuth is first determined and then the elevation is adjusted.
2.4m fixed X-Y axis pedestal antenna
- Basic structural principle of X-Y axis mount
The XY axis mount system consists of two mutually perpendicular rotation axes:
X axis: usually parallel to the ground, similar to the AZ axis but may have a different direction
Y axis: perpendicular to the X axis, but different from the traditional EL axis
In this configuration, the antenna is pointed by the coordinated rotation of the two axes, which is different from the elevation-over-azimuth system in which the azimuth is determined first and then the elevation is adjusted.
Main features of X-Y axis mount
- Symmetrical structural design: The two axes of the XY axis mount are completely symmetrical mechanically
- Balance: The weight distribution is usually more balanced than that of the elevation-over-azimuth system
- No zenith blind spot: There is no tracking problem near the zenith in the traditional elevation-over-azimuth system
- Dynamic performance: Excellent performance in high dynamic tracking scenarios
2. Performance comparison between XY axis and elevation-over-azimuth pedestal
2.1 comparison of tracking performance
| Indicators | XY axis mount | elevation-over-azimuth pedestal |
| Zenith area tracking | No blind spot, continuous smoothness | There is a critical area that requires special treatment |
| High elevation angle tracking | High stability, small error | The azimuth axis speed requirement is extremely high |
| Low elevation angle tracking | Comparable performance | The performance is equivalent |
| Dynamic response | Fast response, good acceleration capability | The azimuth axis has a large inertia and a slow response |
6.2m antenna with elevation-over-azimuth mount
Fixed X-Y pedestal view
2.2 Mechanical performance comparison
The mechanical advantages of XY-axis vehicles are mainly reflected in:
Structural rigidity: Symmetrical design makes the overall rigidity distribution more uniform
Bearing load: The force on each bearing is more balanced and the wear is more uniform
Wind resistance characteristics: Generally has better aerodynamic characteristics
Maintenance convenience: Symmetrical structure makes maintenance channels easier to design
2.3 Control complexity
Although the XY axis mount has mechanical advantages, its control system is relatively complex:
Real-time coordinate conversion is required
The axis coupling effect is more obvious
More accurate axis calibration is required
In Previous blog, we introduced an 1.8m portable XY axis pedestal antenna including antenna features and installation operation. We received various comments on the installation and performance from clients. Now, we tested and debugged a new 2.4m fixed XY axis pedestal antenna on our site. Please go ahead for the further details. Firstly, we will show rear and front views of 2.4m fixed X-Y axis pedestal antenna below.
3. Installation steps of 2.4m fixed X-Y axis pedestal antenna
There are 5 installation steps in brief for 2.4m fixed X-Y axis pedestal antenna
Step 1: Kingpost installation
Take out the kingpost and connect it with the foundation.
Please note that what was discussed above was the situation of pouring the foundation. The following is we tested antenna with a movable foundation for installation, but the steps are the same, and they all need to be connected and then tightened.
Step 2: Install the turntable
Take out the turntable assembly and place the turntable on top of the support kingpost, align it with the positioning hole, insert it, and secure it with the screws that come with the kingpostp:
Step 3: Antenna reflector installation
- Take out the center round panel. First, align the center round panel with the turntable according to the positioning blocks, then secure it with M10×35 screws:
- Install panels No. 1 through No. 10 in order (each split panel number corresponds to the matching number marked on the center round panel).
Step 4: Two Beidou installation
There are two Beidou mounting holes on both sides of the antenna panel. After alignment, secure them by tightening the black captive knobs. At the same time, tighten the cable connectors, as shown in the diagram below:.
Step 5: Assembly of the feed and support rod
Preparation: install the power box on the kingpost, connect cables (see 3.4) and control antenna move to X-0°，Y-90° to install the feed.
- Feed installation
At this point, all installations are completed, and the completed diagram is as follows.
4. Advantages of XY-Axis Mounts
- High Precision: Allows fine adjustments for accurate pointing.
- Fast Response: Suitable for tracking fast-moving objects.
- Dual-Axis Control: Covers both azimuth and elevation adjustments.
- Automation Compatibility: Can integrate with servo motors, encoders, and control software.
5. Key Applications of XY-Axis Mount for Antennas
Satellite Communication (SATCOM)
Used in ground stations to track geostationary (GEO) or low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites.
Enables auto-tracking for mobile satellite terminals (e.g., on ships, vehicles, or aircraft).
Radar Systems
Used in phased array radars and surveillance radars for beam steering.
Helps in target tracking (military, aviation, maritime).
Radio Astronomy
Allows precise pointing of radio telescopes to observe celestial objects.
Used in VLBI (Very Long Baseline Interferometry) systems.
Drone/UAV Communication
Provides real-time tracking for maintaining a stable communication link with moving drones.
5G & Wireless Networks
Used in millimeter-wave (mmWave) beamforming for dynamic alignment with user equipment.
Military & Defense&Missile guidance systems
Electronic warfare (EW) and jamming systems
The XY-axis mount system has obvious advantages in high-dynamic, all-sky coverage application scenarios, especially in tasks that require frequent crossing of the zenith area. The traditional elevation-over-azimuth mount still has cost advantages in conventional applications such as low elevation angles and fixed track tracking. With the development of control technology, the application scope of the XY-axis mount will be further expanded and become the preferred solution for high-performance antenna systems.
The choice of which mount system should take into account specific application requirements, cost budget and long-term maintenance factors. The XY-axis mount represents an important development direction for high-performance antenna support systems.
Antesky Science Technology Inc. was built in 1985, we’re mainly engaged in the design and manufacture of satellite communication large satellite dish,VSAT antenna,TVRO antenna, Portable flyaway antenna and relevant control and tracking system. We have a selected range of antenna in the frequency band, such as C-band, Ku-band, X-band, L-band, S-band, Ka-band, DBS-band.If you are looking for any other satellite communication dish or related accessories, please send Antesky an inquiry via sales@antesky.com. Thanks!
