Would a Acutrac22Pro Meter work with a 5LNB Sat?

[dsheli]

Hey guys would a Acutrac22Pro Meter work with a 5LNB Sat? If not what kind of meter would work? Also do you guys know what size pole is needed if I wanted to mount this satellite in the ground?
Thanks,
David

[Mertzen]

Yes it will work. check out the videos at solidsignal.com. They use that meter to align the ka/ku.

It's 2" outside diameter.

[Mertzen]

The videos (http://www.solidsignal.com/satellite/at9_install_videos.asp)

[dsheli]

Do you know what size pole and were I can get one to mount a DTV slimline? Also my apartment requires the dish to mounted on the ground, well I live on the 3rd floor. The current cable runs to each apt is only one pair of two coax cables. We have 4 receivers. Is there anyway to connect those two cable runs to a multi-switch or do we need all 4 runs from the dish in order to connect it to a multi-switch.
David

[Michael D'Angelo]

Do you know what size pole and were I can get one to mount a DTV slimline? Also my apartment requires the dish to mounted on the ground, well I live on the 3rd floor. The current cable runs to each apt is only one pair of two coax cables. We have 4 receivers. Is there anyway to connect those two cable runs to a multi-switch or do we need all 4 runs from the dish in order to connect it to a multi-switch.
David

:welcome_s to DBSTalk!

You need a 2" pole for the Slimline dish.

What receivers/DVR's do you have?

[Mertzen]

What you could do is invest in a SWM switch. Just search the forum multiple threads on it. In your case you can mount it at the dish. It does require the last generation of IRDs though.

[dsheli]

:welcome_s to DBSTalk!

You need a 2" pole for the Slimline dish.

What receivers/DVR's do you have?

Thanks Michael!! We are planning on getting 2 HD DVRs and 2 HD receivers. Mertzen what do you mean by last generation IRDs? I will have some more questions about the SWM in a second I am still searching and reading up on what it is.

[Michael D'Angelo]

Thanks Michael!! We are planning on getting 2 HD DVRs and 2 HD receivers. Mertzen what do you mean by last generation IRDs? I will have some more questions about the SWM in a second I am still searching and reading up on what it is.

Mertzen mentioned the SWM that is what I was getting to when I ask what receiver/DVR's.

The receivers you are getting will work with the SWM.

You would have two option but you will probably have to buy either one at this point if you want one because they are both only being used in a few markets right now.

1) SWM8 - it is a external multi-switch that needs 4 lines from the dish connected to it and than you could run one line to your apartment and than use a splitter and you would only need one line to each receiver including the DVR's and you would be able to use both tuners.

You could install the SWM8 outside with the dish and connect 4 short cables from the dish to the SWM and run one line inside.

2) SWMLine - is a Slimline dish with a SWM built in. It only has one output and you would run that inside and use a splitter and than one line to each receiver.

Both units have a power supply that need to be installed inside but you run it in line with the one SAT line coming inside.

As for the SWM8 you could order from a few places online like solidsignal.com or a member here (dave29). He can also get the SWMLine. I am not sure of any place online that can get it right now.

[dsheli]

Mertzen mentioned the SWM that is what I was getting to when I ask what receiver/DVR's.

The receivers you are getting will work with the SWM.

You would have two option but you will probably have to buy either one at this point if you want one because they are both only being used in a few markets right now.

1) SWM8 - it is a external multi-switch that needs 4 lines from the dish connected to it and than you could run one line to your apartment and than use a splitter and you would only need one line to each receiver including the DVR's and you would be able to use both tuners.

You could install the SWM8 outside with the dish and connect 4 short cables from the dish to the SWM and run one line inside.

2) SWMLine - is a Slimline dish with a SWM built in. It only has one output and you would run that inside and use a splitter and than one line to each receiver.

Both units have a power supply that need to be installed inside but you run it in line with the one SAT line coming inside.

As for the SWM8 you could order from a few places online like solidsignal.com or a member here (dave29). He can also get the SWMLine. I am not sure of any place online that can get it right now.

First let me explain the way my Apartment wiring is set up. I have the two cables running up from the ground to a closet in my apartment. From there I have all the drops from the 4 rooms, each with one cable per room. As of right now it looks like all 4 rooms will have DVRs in them. So my plan is to mount the Slimline outside on a pole that is cemented into the ground with no chance of it ever moving. On the dish I will mount a SWM8. I will then use the two coax drops that go to my apartment and connect them to the swm port 1 and 2. Now going back to my apartment closet that has the two coax drops that come from the dish (SWM1 and SWM2) how do I split those to each room? Do I get a Directv approved SWM splitter like a 1x4? Then that goes to each dvr that internally splits them to both tuners? Below is the ref guide I was looking at. Now if one room had an old Directivo would I use the one coax cable in that room then split the signal using a 1x2 swm splitter?
Thanks guys yall have been a big help!
David

Well it will not let me post a link to the ref guide but i found it on the weaknees site.

[Michael D'Angelo]

First let me explain the way my Apartment wiring is set up. I have the two cables running up from the ground to a closet in my apartment. From there I have all the drops from the 4 rooms, each with one cable per room. As of right now it looks like all 4 rooms will have DVRs in them. So my plan is to mount the Slimline outside on a pole that is cemented into the ground with no chance of it ever moving. On the dish I will mount a SWM8. I will then use the two coax drops that go to my apartment and connect them to the swm port 1 and 2. Now going back to my apartment closet that has the two coax drops that come from the dish (SWM1 and SWM2) how do I split those to each room? Do I get a Directv approved SWM splitter like a 1x4? Then that goes to each dvr that internally splits them to both tuners? Below is the ref guide I was looking at. Now if one room had an old Directivo would I use the one coax cable in that room then split the signal using a 1x2 swm splitter?
Thanks guys yall have been a big help!
David

Well it will not let me post a link to the ref guide but i found it on the weaknees site.

That setup will work except it will not work with a TiVo unit. The SWM will only work with the HR2x's, H2x's, R22, R16 and D12.

You can run the line from SWM1 to the PI (power supply). Then from the PI to a 4-way splitter and run one line to each each receiver. Then you would not need to use SWM2.

or

You can run the line from SWM1 to the PI and then to a 2-way splitter and one line to two units. Then the other line from SWM2 to a 2-way splitter and one line to each of the other 2 units.

or

You can run the line from SWM1 to the PI. Then run a line from SWM2 to a 4-way splitter and then one line to each receiver.

[dsheli]

That setup will work except it will not work with a TiVo unit. The SWM will only work with the HR2x's, H2x's, R22, R16 and D12.

You can run the line from SWM1 to the PI (power supply). Then from the PI to a 4-way splitter and run one line to each each receiver. Then you would not need to use SWM2.

or

You can run the line from SWM1 to the PI and then to a 2-way splitter and one line to two units. Then the other line from SWM2 to a 2-way splitter and one line to each of the other 2 units.

or

You can run the line from SWM1 to the PI. Then run a line from SWM2 to a 4-way splitter and then one line to each receiver.

Ok, so the directivo is not compatible with the the SWM even if I have a cable run directly from say SWM2 to the directivo? Now on the newer dvrs that each have one cable running to them I will be able to maintain the dual tuner functionality with just one cable coming from say the 1x4 splitter correct?
David

[Michael D'Angelo]

Ok, so the directivo is not compatible with the the SWM even if I have a cable run directly from say SWM2 to the directivo? Now on the newer dvrs that each have one cable running to them I will be able to maintain the dual tuner functionality with just one cable coming from say the 1x4 splitter correct?
David

Yes on the SWM capable DVR's you will only need to connect one line and it will control both tuners.

There is a way to connect the TiVo if you want but you will only be able to use one tuner?

[dsheli]

Yes on the SWM capable DVR's you will only need to connect one line and it will control both tuners.

There is a way to connect the TiVo if you want but you will only be able to use one tuner?

Now is there any advantage to using two 1x2 splitters vs a single 1x4 splitter? Also how do you like directv on demand?
David

[Michael D'Angelo]

Now is there any advantage to using two 1x2 splitters vs a single 1x4 splitter? Also how do you like directv on demand?
David

It does not matter what setup you use with the splitters. I use two 1x2 but that is because that is what I had.

I personally like DoD. It depends on your download speed if you can watch it live or not though. I can watch SD live but HD I have to let download some. As long as you have 3 or 4 MB down you should be able to watch SD live.

[dsheli]

It does not matter what setup you use with the splitters. I use two 1x2 but that is because that is what I had.

I personally like DoD. It depends on your download speed if you can watch it live or not though. I can watch SD live but HD I have to let download some. As long as you have 3 or 4 MB down you should be able to watch SD live.

Now would I be able to use a sling box and a laptop (lol :lol: ) to set up my dish? Anybody had any luck doing that? Or does anybody had a meter that I can rent from them? I can send them a paypal payment for the full amount of the meter as collateral. haha
David

[Michael D'Angelo]

Now would I be able to use a sling box and a laptop (lol :lol: ) to set up my dish? Anybody had any luck doing that? Or does anybody had a meter that I can rent from them? I can send them a paypal payment for the full amount of the meter as collateral. haha
David

Yes I know of at least one member (houskamp) that used a Slingbox. I believe you have to put into control mode. Just take your time and move it very slowly.

[Mertzen]

Now would I be able to use a sling box and a laptop (lol :lol: ) to set up my dish?
David

Just use a friend/sig other/alien at the box and make them yell/phone you signal strength .:lol:

[Mertzen]

Do I get a Directv approved SWM splitter like a 1x4? Then that goes to each dvr that internally splits them to both tuners? Below is the ref guide I was looking at. Now if one room had an old Directivo would I use the one coax cable in that room then split the signal using a 1x2 swm splitter?


You are mostly getting the lowdown on the SWM.

You would use the STS-4 (http://www.techtoolsupply.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=2039) splitter. With each run to a DVR.

But note:
- The DTivo box can not be run off the SWM lines. it has to run off a 'legacy' port. And hence can't be split up. There are multiple legacy ports though but then you come back to your lack of lines.
- the SWM only support 8 tuners. So if you get 4 'new' DVRs you reached the capacity of the switch.

[dsheli]

You are mostly getting the lowdown on the SWM.

You would use the STS-4 (http://www.techtoolsupply.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWPROD&ProdID=2039) splitter. With each run to a DVR.

But note:
- The DTivo box can not be run off the SWM lines. it has to run off a 'legacy' port. And hence can't be split up. There are multiple legacy ports though but then you come back to your lack of lines.
- the SWM only support 8 tuners. So if you get 4 'new' DVRs you reached the capacity of the switch.

Are there any legacy ports on the SWM switch?

[Michael D'Angelo]

Are there any legacy ports on the SWM switch?

Yes the SWM8 has 3 legacy outputs but you have to run a separate line from each legacy output.

You could use one of the two lines outside to run inside to the PI and than to a splitter for the three rooms.

Then run the 2nd line inside and use a barrel connection to connect it to one of the lines running to whatever room you want the TiVo in but you will only be able to use one tuner.

[dsheli]

Yes the SWM8 has 3 legacy outputs but you have to run a separate line from each legacy output.

You could use one of the two lines outside to run inside to the PI and than to a splitter for the three rooms.

Then run the 2nd line inside and use a barrel connection to connect it to one of the lines running to whatever room you want the TiVo in but you will only be able to use one tuner.

Ok, that makes sense. I am planning on putting the pole 2 feet in the ground with two bags of cement, sound good? Also will a traditional 1 foot level be sufficient in pluming the pole?

[dsheli]

Mertzen mentioned the SWM that is what I was getting to when I ask what receiver/DVR's.

The receivers you are getting will work with the SWM.

You would have two option but you will probably have to buy either one at this point if you want one because they are both only being used in a few markets right now.

1) SWM8 - it is a external multi-switch that needs 4 lines from the dish connected to it and than you could run one line to your apartment and than use a splitter and you would only need one line to each receiver including the DVR's and you would be able to use both tuners.

You could install the SWM8 outside with the dish and connect 4 short cables from the dish to the SWM and run one line inside.

2) SWMLine - is a Slimline dish with a SWM built in. It only has one output and you would run that inside and use a splitter and than one line to each receiver.

Both units have a power supply that need to be installed inside but you run it in line with the one SAT line coming inside.

As for the SWM8 you could order from a few places online like solidsignal.com or a member here (dave29). He can also get the SWMLine. I am not sure of any place online that can get it right now.

Now based on the configuration that we have discussed would it not make more sense for me to order a SWNLine Dish? That would probably save me money correct?
David

[Michael D'Angelo]

Now based on the configuration that we have discussed would it not make more sense for me to order a SWNLine Dish? That would probably save me money correct?
David

I am not sure what the cost of the SWMLine is. You would have to send dave29 a PM an ask him.

Also you would not be able to use the TiVo with the SWMLine.

[dsheli]

I am not sure what the cost of the SWMLine is. You would have to send dave29 a PM an ask him.

Also you would not be able to use the TiVo with the SWMLine.

Ya, I think Directv has a discount where i can get a HD DVR for 99 so I think I will loose all my tivo hacks and finally upgrade. Correct me if I am wrong but there have not been any developments in terms of the directvDVR hacking right?

[Michael D'Angelo]

Ya, I think Directv has a discount where i can get a HD DVR for 99 so I think I will loose all my tivo hacks and finally upgrade. Correct me if I am wrong but there have not been any developments in terms of the directvDVR hacking right?

No there is no hacks for the DIRECTV DVR's.

[Mertzen]

I am quite sure the SWMLine is hard to get never mind hard to ship.

I'd make sure and maybe use a 3rd bag. Also flatten the pipe or put a bolt throug it so it doesn't turn once the concrete is set.

[dsheli]

I am quite sure the SWMLine is hard to get never mind hard to ship.

I'd make sure and maybe use a 3rd bag. Also flatten the pipe or put a bolt throug it so it doesn't turn once the concrete is set.

I will do two bolts at varying heights with 3 bags. Do I need any special level to get it plum?
David

[Mertzen]

A small magnetic level is probably all you need. Don't break the bank over it.

[dsheli]

I know that local channels are spot beamed, how far do you guys think the atlanta local channels will go? I am looking to get them in Clemson, Sc.
David

[Dirac]

You probably want to go deeper than 1 ft with the pole. I'd go at least 4 ft if your pole is long enough, so to speak. I think I buried about half (or just over) of a 10 foot pole for my AT9 mount. Two bags should be plenty of concrete with something that deep.

[Dirac]

I know that local channels are spot beamed, how far do you guys think the atlanta local channels will go? I am looking to get them in Clemson, Sc.
David

Quite possible as the Atlanta DMA (http://ekb.dbstalk.com/TVMarkets/) covers a good-sized area, all the way to the SC border in NE Georgia.

[Jables]

I know that local channels are spot beamed, how far do you guys think the atlanta local channels will go? I am looking to get them in Clemson, Sc.
David

Well, Clemson SC is in the Greenville-Spartanburg SC-Asheville NC DMA, so getting Atlanta locals there would violate D*'s terms of service. Asking for help about getting out-of-market locals is frowned upon here, just as a heads up.

But as dirac said, hypothetically speaking, I bet it's physically possible to receive the signal there.

Also, that meter will work fine for an install - I did my slimline setup with it. Just follow the directions for installing and you'll be fine - my 99c signals were solid as a rock when it lit up.

[dsheli]

Well, Clemson SC is in the Greenville-Spartanburg SC-Asheville NC DMA, so getting Atlanta locals there would violate D*'s terms of service. Asking for help about getting out-of-market locals is frowned upon here, just as a heads up.

But as dirac said, hypothetically speaking, I bet it's physically possible to receive the signal there.

Also, that meter will work fine for an install - I did my slimline setup with it. Just follow the directions for installing and you'll be fine - my 99c signals were solid as a rock when it lit up.

Ok, Well how does D*TV prevent that when you have an RV and set up for say football tailgating?

[2dogz]

Ok, Well how does D*TV prevent that when you have an RV and set up for say football tailgating?

D* hasn't a clue you are driving to a football game. You would know if you outdrive your spotbeam. Only way to find out, give it a try.

I bring an old dual LNB dish to the parking lot for Maryland games. Very quick to set up. Haven't tried a 3 or 5 LNB dish though, haven't the patience and it cuts into your tailgating time too much. Burp.

Go Terps :)

[Jables]

Ok, Well how does D*TV prevent that when you have an RV and set up for say football tailgating?

They wouldn't - I don't think D* cares if you haul a dish around to games and tailgate. Probably if you're rocking HD in the parking lot they appreciate the advertising :) I was referring to a situation where you actually lived in Clemson but wanted to get Atlanta locals.

[dsheli]

O, Ok Good Deal. This fall will be the first time I have ever set up a Slimline dish my self so it will be interesting to see what happens. I will be sure to hold off on the drinking till this sucker gets up and running.
David

[2dogz]

O, Ok Good Deal. This fall will be the first time I have ever set up a Slimline dish my self so it will be interesting to see what happens. I will be sure to hold off on the drinking till this sucker gets up and running.
David

Recommend you do dry run setups in your driveway a couple of times to get it down pat.

I put dish on top of my SUV luggage rack, but it's small compared to Slimline dish. Many RV people invest in a tripod for the dish mount. With 100-150 feet of cable it allows them to position the dish for LOS no matter where the RV park assigns them to park. Problem at a football game is protecting the dish from people stumbling around in various states of inebriation. Yellow crime scene tape, maybe?

However you mount it, you just need to devise a way to quickly get the dish mast plumb, as in plumb-plumb. That's 75% of the job. With a tripod, bring along a small shovel or entrenching tool to do some minor landscaping when adjusting the legs to level. Investing in a signal meter might not be a bad idea if you expect to be putting the dish up very many times. Meter will make setup quicker and easier than using the receiver signal meters. (Note: once you start bringing the dish and TV to games, I find all friends and family so come to expect it at every game.)

One last thought, use a LCD HD TV, not plasma, because LCD is better in the sunlight which is often a problem. LCD screen must be protected during transport though, given all the coolers, gas stoves, beach chairs, tents, etc. that get packed in for the tailgate. We pack two SUVs and a F150 pickup truck full of crap and the TV screen can get zapped leaving a permanent dark black spot on the screen.

[dsheli]

Recommend you do dry run setups in your driveway a couple of times to get it down pat.

I put dish on top of my SUV luggage rack, but it's small compared to Slimline dish. Many RV people invest in a tripod for the dish mount. With 100-150 feet of cable it allows them to position the dish for LOS no matter where the RV park assigns them to park. Problem at a football game is protecting the dish from people stumbling around in various states of inebriation. Yellow crime scene tape, maybe?

However you mount it, you just need to devise a way to quickly get the dish mast plumb, as in plumb-plumb. That's 75% of the job. With a tripod, bring along a small shovel or entrenching tool to do some minor landscaping when adjusting the legs to level. Investing in a signal meter might not be a bad idea if you expect to be putting the dish up very many times. Meter will make setup quicker and easier than using the receiver signal meters. (Note: once you start bringing the dish and TV to games, I find all friends and family so come to expect it at every game.)

One last thought, use a LCD HD TV, not plasma, because LCD is better in the sunlight which is often a problem. LCD screen must be protected during transport though, given all the coolers, gas stoves, beach chairs, tents, etc. that get packed in for the tailgate. We pack two SUVs and a F150 pickup truck full of crap and the TV screen can get zapped leaving a permanent dark black spot on the screen.

You have some great points there. I am just in charge of the Dish, I have a friend who is taking care of the TV this fall.
Thanks guys,
David

[dsheli]

Also does anyone know of any problems High Voltage power lines might cause? Like if powerlines are between the bird and the dish.
David

[Mertzen]

Also does anyone know of any problems High Voltage power lines might cause? Like if powerlines are between the bird and the dish.
David

Nope.

[dsheli]

If for some reason I am to far away to get the locals the receiver is registered with, will I not be able to receiver NBC, ABC, FOX and CBS? What should I do then? Ask Directv to activate the national channels?
David

[Jables]

I meant to mention something about this in my last post, but work got me distracted -

http://directv.com/DTVAPP/customer/faqPage.jsp?assetId=P4730020&Id

Get an RV waiver. Not sure how HD is handled these days.

[mgtr]

I have read this thread twice, and I gather that you are talking about two separate deals -- setting up a slimline or equivalent at you apartment in the Atlanta area, which is a permanent deal, and temporarily setting up some sort of Directv dish at the Clemson football stadium.
Talking only about the Clemson deal, what kind of receiver will be used and where is its "home?" That is what will determine what locals (if any) you will get. For example, if it's "home' is Atlanta, then you will either get the Atlanta locals or none at all. As others have suggested, the Atlanta spot beam may well reach that far.
If you are not talking HD, there is a real simple solution. Find an SD receiver (most people have them laying around) and have somebody you know with a Directv system in the Greenville-Spartanburg DMA activate it on their system for $5 a month. Then, using that receiver, when you are at Clemson tailgating you will be able to get the Greenville-Spartanburg locals.
In theory, this would also work with HD, but would be more difficult to set up the dish. However, once you have the experience in Atlanta, might not be too bad.