Adding recievers

  • Thread starter Thread starter cyber_ecco
  • Start date Start date
C

cyber_ecco

Guest
Hello,

I am currently running the standard 18" bell dish with 2 receivers hooked to the dual LNB. I've been reading here a bit as I want to add 2 maybe 3 more recievers. From what I have been reading it seems I can use a 4 way switch. I'm a little confused about which type I need. I've read about passive and active ones, powered and non powered. I do not intend to hook up another dish, nor do I want to change the dish if possible. Can someone help explain which would be the best for my purpose and if possible where is the best place to get it locally or online. I am located in Vancouver. Thanks.

Gord.
 
If you are only interested in SD programming (Nimiq 1 @ 91) then you can install a 3x4 Multiswitch. This will allow up to 4 receivers to be run off the single dish. 2 lines into the switch from the dish and up to 4 lines out of the switch to your receivers. Unless you are running long cables, a powered multiswitch is usually not required and just adds a new potential failure point.

You can also pick up a 3x8 multiswitch instead (about $30 on ebay for example) that, with the same setup, will allow up to 8 receivers off a single dish.

If you rent, Bell will provide the necessary equipment if they force an install on you (I know they do for the high end units, not sure about the SD receivers).

HD complicates things.
 
Thanks for the info. How long do the cables have to be before I need power. Most of the recievers are within 30 feet but one of them runs 100 feet. Is that going to be ok without power?
 
100 feet is just fine for a run if you are using RG6 Coax.

As dosborne says, the 3x4 will not require power on that length of cable.

Installation costs are $75 for a Rental SD receiver, the 3x4 switch would then be provided free, a second line would be an extra $50.

If you chose to add 3 receivers, then it becomes expensive through Express Vu, as the installation would be $75, each line $50, then they stuff you with a $150 charge for an 8 way switch.

All the above is based on SD receivers.

If you were to decide on 1 HD receiver, then the Installation would be free, so would the Upgrade of the Dish and all work required......

For adding just one more SD receiver, buy a switch from e-bay etc and run your own line internally, including a new receiver you should be able to do it all for under $150.
 
Back
Top