DirecTV connection question

[Redsoxfan]

I have a DirecTV 3 room system with a triple LNB dish w/built-in multi-switch (I didn't install, but there are three coax lines coming out that hookup to my 3 rooms). I just bought a DirecTV DVR and I have a question on how to hook it up. I would like to be able to get two lines into my DVR, but I only have one line coming into the room from the dish.

Is it possible to split this one feed from the dish in to each of the DVR's inputs? If so, what do I need - a second multiswitch or a DSS splitter?

If it isn't possible, does this mean that I would be best off going up to the roof and hooking up a new coax run from (what I am guessing is up there on the dish) the fourth output from the built-in multiplexer.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated. This stuff is poorly documented.

Thanks!

[Mark Holtz]

:welcome_s to DBSTalk, Redsoxfan!

No, you cannot use a splitter on a DBS line. You will have to run a second line from the dish to the receiver which means getting on the roof.

Not exactly the news you want to hear, but the DBS receiver cable not only handles the video signal, but also controls which transponder you are tuned to, the polarity (or is it circular pattern), and even which satellite if you have a dish pointed to more than one location (i.e. a Phase Three dish).

[Redsoxfan]

Thanks Mark. Looks like I'll be making a trip up on top of the roof. The good news is that I think I have laid out the inside wiring welll enough that the inside connection should be easy once I make the new run.

This is a great site. I'm a new dish owner and I look forward to reading future threads.