Adding boxes to Directv system - PeachParts Mercedes-Benz Forum

Honus · #1 07-09-2009, 10:57 AM

We have Directv with two boxes hooked up to one dish. I need to add two more boxes. Both of the new boxes are near an existing box. Can I add a splitter at the existing box and run new lines to the new boxes?

KarTek · #2 07-09-2009, 11:03 AM

You need a multi-dish switch, you can't just "split" the feed.

Another choice is to get a 4 output LNB and run more lines to the additional receivers but the switch is the easiest solution.

Something like this:

http://cgi.ebay.com/New-3x4-DirecTV-Satellite-Multiswitch-Mult-Switch_W0QQitemZ120444713234QQcmdZViewItemQQptZLH_DefaultDomain_0?hash=item1c0b107912&_trksid=p3286.c0.m14&_trkparms=65%3A12%7C66%3A2%7C39%3A1%7C72%3A1234%7C293%3A1%7C294%3A50

Honus · #3 07-09-2009, 11:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by KarTek

You need a multi-dish switch, you can't just "split" the feed.

Another choice is to get a 4 output LNB and run more lines to the additional receivers but the switch is the easiest solution.

What is an "LNB"?

KarTek · #4 07-09-2009, 11:09 AM

It's the thing on the dish that picks up the signal. The pod on the end of the arm.

OldPokey · #5 07-09-2009, 11:15 AM

Low Noise Block downconverter. It amplifies (via a low noise amplifier) the weak signal from the satellite and downconverts it into a signal that won't be absorbed (attenuated) by the cheap cable that runs between it and your DirecTV box.

Honus · #6 07-09-2009, 11:23 AM

Thank you for the replies. This forum is so useful.

KarTek mentioned a multi-dish switch. Can I install that switch at one of the existing boxes? Or does each box need a home run from the box to the dish?

I don't know whether this matters, but I don't have any HD receivers and don't intend to get any, unless the FCC forces me to.

Medmech · #7 07-09-2009, 11:58 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dculkin

Thank you for the replies. This forum is so useful.

KarTek mentioned a multi-dish switch. Can I install that switch at one of the existing boxes? Or does each box need a home run from the box to the dish?

I don't know whether this matters, but I don't have any HD receivers and don't intend to get any, unless the FCC forces me to.

No, the multiswitch has to be connected to the LNB. Newer tech now allows you to use one box for 2 tv's with seperate tuners. You should call Directv to see what they will give you. In my own experience I have never paid for any type of satellite equipment of service and that is including HD Tivos ect ect.

Medmech · #8 07-09-2009, 11:59 AM

and LNB stands for low noise block.

mgburg · #9 07-09-2009, 12:38 PM

I'm staying away from this one...

Honus · #10 07-09-2009, 01:49 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Medmech

No, the multiswitch has to be connected to the LNB...

I am about to ask a dumb question, but what the hey.

I assume that there is some sort of cable connecting the multiswitch to the LNB. Why can't that cable be long enough to reach to one of my existing boxes? Then I could put the multiswitch there and avoid running new cables back up to the roof.

Medmech · #11 07-09-2009, 02:58 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by dculkin

I am about to ask a dumb question, but what the hey.

I assume that there is some sort of cable connecting the multiswitch to the LNB. Why can't that cable be long enough to reach to one of my existing boxes? Then I could put the multiswitch there and avoid running new cables back up to the roof.

The technology is changing quickly but I am assuming that you have an older set up. There is a multi-switch in the LNB which is located on your roof depending on the set up each feed is for an individual receiver, for homes with more than 4 they are run to a multiswitch which will split them into 8-12 feeds, you cannot use one of the feeds from the lnb because the switch has to deal with multiple satellites. Most set-ups are unique depending on the age of your equipment so it is best to call Directv and see what they can do, you have to call them anyway to activate the receiver.

Newer technology is bidirectional so it makes all of the above a big buggy whip.

Edit: if you do need a multi-switch I have an ass load brand new of eagle aspen 4x6's I will gladly ship them if they are needed. let me know before tomorrow because Medmech is going on a Kid Rock bender next week.