Scotty.
I like the SM-1100 meter. When I first got it, I hooked it up to my existing FTA system and programmed it to see if it can scan and pick up the FTA channels my Pansat 2700 already recieves and it did great!!!
What I am doing is programming the SM-1100 to be able to pick up the satellites that have the FTA frequencies (Ku and C Band). When I get ready to set up a FTA system, all I would do (after installing the dish and receiver and all that) is to set the SM-1100 to a most watched TP (say, like on T5) and find the signal strength of satellite and quality strength. This meter is really a FTA receiver with a satellite meter built in. Once I see that the satellite I want is fixed in, I would go to TP to TP and check the picture quality. The screen is 3.5 inches square and in color! The sound is good, too. Some guys from the Satelliteguys site who owns one uses it to peak their FTA system and it help make a difference!
It has up to 25 satellites programmed and altogether, holds up to 27. It has Disecq switch capablities but won't operate a HH motor drive. It is easy to setup and operate. All you need is a 10 to 15 foot RG6 cable that will be used to go from the LNB to the SM-1100 meter. It sure beat dragging a long extension cord, small TV, FTA receiver, and power strip out to the site, especially if you have to go on the roof. The meter has a builtin battery that is rechargable and last up to 4 hours. The meter has a 1 year warranty.
Drawbacks? It cannot be used in tuning in Directv sats. Their frequencies are fixed to where the meter itself won't be accurate. It would show the signal strength, but not the quality. It work great in all other satellites.
The screen is easy to scratch up if you don't use the case it comes with.
I bought my meter from Rick's Satellite and he swears by this product! He sell and installs FTA systems and use this product since it came out in May. I found a good price on another site and Rick matched it. This meter sells up to $599 on some sites, but with searching on the net you will find better prices. Altogether, I paid $487.00. It is cheaper than the Birddog meters and it really rock!
Imagine you want to watch a football game on FTA but a storm come up and you're without electricity... Just get the SM-1100, hook it up to your system, turn it on, and watch your game!
I hope this help you in deciding about this product. I have no regrets...