Re: Leviton and DirecTV

[George Pontis <gpontis@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

In article <1120323450.238495.101210@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>,
powercat@xxxxxxxxxxx says...

>
> I am unclear how many RG-6 runs I need from the cabinet to the dish.
>
> Is one run adequate?  Does the dish have its own multiswitch for
> converging signals from the various satellites?
>
> ...
>
> I attempted to ask DirecTV via a form on their web site and the
> response I got was "ask the installer these questions when he comes".
> Hmm:  I wanted to have necessary equipment on site before the installer
> gets here and have nice nonsloppy runs to my roof before he gets here.
>

My understanding is that you need 4 runs of RG6 from multisiwtch to dish for
Directv with capability for the new HDTV channels. It would be 3 runs without the
new HDTV capability. Many dishes already have a multiswitch internally but maybe
not enough for three receivers. For example, two DTivo receivers each take two
runs for full capability, so that fully utilizes a typical high-end dish with
three transponders and a 4x4 multiswitch.

I don't know what the multiswitch is in the Leviton box, but it may not have what
it takes for the new Directv HD. Here are a few switches that will support it:

Spaun SMS5602NF, also 5802
Eagle-Aspen S-4180-GX+

These switches need to be mounted out of the weather and require power
which is supplied by an external power supply (included). The smallest ones
require (waste?) 24W all day long.