Dish Adjustments

The procedure for dish network is similiar to above explanation.  If you are trying to setup a 500 dish with two lnbs, make sure that you require the local network feeds before attempting to setup this dual satellite scenario. No networks,  use one lnbf and center the lnb in the middle of feed support assembly.  Dual setup read instructions very carefully before attempting install. Information to be added soon Type 44 multiswitch

      There is a correct procedure for dish tuning adjustments.   Once you have set your elevation or zip code setting,  do not tighten mount bolts too snug. Leave loose enough that when moving dish horizontally, moves freely, as you rotate on the mount.  Move a few degrees and stop, waiting in 3 second increments as previously described.  If you follow this gradual movement, your receiver will find the signal. For those that want a fast way to tune dish see budget signal  meter

Dish-upgrade - Before removing old dish check elevation setting, and setup new 24 inch with same adjustment. Use old mount if possible and attach new dish will decrease installation time.  Point dish in same direction as old, and move in 3 second increments to get maximum signal levels. Hookup signal meter at dish and use receiver power and tune to maximum level.

Look for obstructions at the elevation setting at your dish. If all is clear proceed.  First, disconnect power from receiver for several minutes.  At mounting location, always check for loose brackets (no movement any direction)  If all is secure, trace the line going into the house. If there are splices or  extenders or any taped areas anywhere on the coax line, make sure they are free from corrosion. Any sign of that and you have located the problem.  Next, check the coax ends. Look for frays in outer shield touching center conductor, and the center copper wire should be approximately 1/4" in length from outer edge (looking sideways) if all checks out, remove the lnb and measure with dc meter for 18 volts, (plus or minus 2 volts and can be measured at lnbf)  if the voltage is ok, lnb may be defective.  If receiver menu and program guide look normal, the receiver is most likely working correctly.  Substitution is the quickest and easiest  way to find the problem.  If you have a dual lnbf, reverse the cables. If you switched the problem to other receiver replace as necessary. Dss LNBF 

DSS Access Card Replacements   

If for some reason you have to use your access card in another receiver, you need to call Directv and get the receiver authorized for that card....It has to be new (unauthorized) or an old card in your name, to work. If the card was used in another name, they will not authorize it.  Multiple receiver usage requires that all receivers be connected to a phone line or they will lose programming.  Make sure this is accomplished during installation.

Satellite Transponers Missing

If you are missing satellite channel programming, check the receiver menu to determine if odd or even transponders are missing. If one or the other is bad, remove lnb line and disconnect receiver for 5 minutes, then reconnect and power up.  This will usually correct problem.

Multiple Hookups

Two receivers:  Each coax line goes to each receiver.  Do not use splitters ( or an existing antenna outlet with these attached )  The lnb amplifier requires Dc from the receiver, directly to the lnb, to provide power.

Multiswitches

3-4 Receiver Hookup = Single Satellite 18 inch dish = Switch Closeup

Use this type of switch for up to four receivers. A typical switch for a 18 inch dish and a dual lnbf, Single Satellite hookup ( up to 4 receivers ) 3 x 4 multiswitch part as above. ( three inputs - one for local Antenna - two for lines from dual lnbf )  3 in 4 out or 3 x 4

Dual Satellite Hookup = Two Satellites usually a 18 inch x 24 inch = Switch Closeup 5 x 4 or 5 in and 4 out used for  HDTV, Para Todos, hookup to 4 receivers.  5X4 Multiswitch . Note Dishnetwork requires a special multiswitch see above ( type 44 multiswitch - dishnetwork )

What switch is needed for your system? A 4x4 means that there are 4 inputs and 4 outputs.  A Para Todos switch comes standard with a 4 in 2 out (two receivers only) and as a HDTV hookup.  A Multiswitch replacement is a 5x4 ( 5 in 4 out - one input is for local antenna connection)  The basic difference between the two types explained above is that one is used for a single satellite, the other is for multiple sat use.  The question always asked is can you use two separate dishes and join them together with a 5x4 or 4x4 switch? Yes indeed, or you can use the Dish Designed For Two Sats ( HDTV or Para Todos )

Rain Fade Problems

Rain fade on heavy down pour usually causes total lockup of signal, due to temporary blockage from the satellite downlink.  The maximum adjustment from the initial alignment procedure is quite important.  If nothing appears loose and you have normal sig. levels, in normal weather, then the alternative is to get more dish gain.  This is easily accomplished by increasing the size of dish to 24 inches.  ( provides 2.5db more gain reducing rain fade by 85%) See Rain Fade Dish  Have seen the add on type petals etc.  My opinion is that they will add bulk and cause wind load problems, versus a single 24 inch reflector. Your existing mount will work in most cases, so no need to replace mount pipe. The larger 36 inch reflector will work in Alaska and low signal areas, or to acquire maximum signal penetration.

Receiver Resets

Listed below are some resets that may be helpful

Hughes    

Most receivers require a procedural reset when replacing or substituting access cards. Hughes receivers use the power and channel down buttons (at the receiver) simultaneously for resetting. Other types, such as RCA, Sony and others require removing power with a special reset button procedure.