It needs 2 cables because a cable can only carry one satellite's signal at a time (on non Pro line only half a satellite). If both channels you wanted to watch were on the same satellite it could just share a line. But, if you have a non DishPro you have from 4-6 different inputs to select from on the single line. A DishPro system would have 2-3 different inputs.
The reciever sends a signal up the line to switch across the different satellites as needed. With 2 lines it can watch 2 different satellites at the same time.
The reciever sends a signal up the line to switch across the different satellites as needed. With 2 lines it can watch 2 different satellites at the same time.