Connecting a Dish Network TV service to your television is relatively easy and can be done independently in most cases without having to consult a professional installer. Here is a step-by-step guide to getting your Dish Network satellite service connected to your TV:
Select a Site for Your Satellite Dish
The first step is to decide which area of the house you want to place your satellite dish outside the house. Consider the following:
- The dish requires an unrestricted view of the sky with a particular focus on the southern region. Signals can be hindered by trees, buildings, and other barriers.
- Select a position on the horizontal plane of your house roof - on the side towards the south or choose a pole-mounted installation outside your house. In each case, the mount has to be firmly affixed to the structure.
- There should be an easy way to run a coaxial cable from the dish outside your home to the inside to connect to your receiver.
Install the Satellite Dish
After you have chosen the most appropriate site, securely fasten your satellite dish mounting hardware either on the roof or on the pole mount. The Dish Network satellite dish, for instance, is merely two feet in diameter and therefore does not consume much space at all. After that, follow the included directions to properly mount the dish.
To aim at the southern sky; tilt and swivel the dish while monitoring the signal strength of the dish’s built-in signal meter. This orients the dish to receive the satellite signal from Dish Network’s broadcasting satellite located above the equator.
Screw the LNB arm firmly to the dish when you are positioning it in the right manner to ensure that it will be at the right angle.
Run Coaxial Cable
Connect a coaxial cable from the LNB arm of the satellite dish to the inside of your house. If the line is to be installed outside the house then it is recommended to use the exterior-rated coaxial cable for the same reason. Try to use one continuous piece of cable, free of splices, from the dish to the location of the television.
If the cable has to be taken through the walls or the ceiling, one should use the correct connectors, wall plates, and cable trays. Build according to the regulations in your region. Make sure to leave a lot of cable length on the ends.
Connect the Receiver
Connect one end of the coaxial cable to the satellite input on the back of the Dish Network receiver box. After installation according to the instructions given with the receiver power cable and HDMI cable (or other AV cables for non-HD TVs).
If you want the capabilities of the receiver box to include DVR then ensure that you place the receiver box near the television next to power outlets and external hard drives. The modem has integrated wireless to hook up to your home network and Dish’s satellite service.
Activate Service and Test
Dial the Dish Network or activate on the Internet to enroll in a programming package included in your activation materials. Once the service is activated, the receiver will download the necessary guide data and programming authorization.
Switch on your television and receiver box, go through the LCD setup options choosing options for your desired channels, resolution, and your dish signal test. This will help to ensure that everything is as it should be from the dish right through to the receiver to the television set.
Troubleshoot Reception
If some channels are lost or you see pixelation during bad weather, your satellite signal strength might be borderline. Check to ensure that the arm of the LNB is correctly aligned towards the south and there are no new barriers in the way of the dish. Sometimes it may be necessary to tilt or reposition the dish to achieve a clearer signal.
If you have a cable run of more than 150 feet then it is recommended to get a signal booster amp. If heavy winds affect the dish alignment and have intermittent service during storms, include a wind barrier around the ground mount. If problems occur, first turn off the modem turn off the receiver box, and turn it on again before contacting a technician.
By installing Dish Network services on your own, you do not incur the cost of hiring a professional to do so. By adhering to such instructions, you will do the job right for many years of excellent satellite TV performances. Regularly monitor signal dropout after major storms and ensure cables and connections are protected. Welcome to a new world filled with as many shows, movies, and sports from Dish Network!
Ready to upgrade your TV experience? Call us now at (877) 471-4808 to find the perfect Dish Network plan for you! Don’t miss out on great entertainment—our team is here to help you choose the best package and get you started today.