If you wish to run a Dish Network satellite TV signal to more than one TV set in your house, you will need a satellite signal splitter. They can be used to connect a Dish receiver to two or more TVs without having to incur the cost of other receivers, and this is by splitting the signal. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to properly split a Dish Network satellite signal:
Choose The Right Splitter
The mistake is normally made when choosing the wrong splitter to split a Dish Network signal. You have to get one that is made for satellite TV signals only. Satellite splitters provide the capability to take the signals from a dish for both low and high bands and feed them to your receivers. Standard cable TV splitters usually interfere with satellite signals.
Some things to look for when selecting a splitter include:
- The frequency range between 2-2,300 MHz to accommodate low and high satellite bands
- To ensure that signals derived from the different outputs do not mix, precautionary measures such as isolation are employed.
- Sufficient number of output ports depending on your situation
- High nominal tap loss to minimize signal loss
Dish suggests splitters that are rated for less than 4 dB of signal loss. The lower the dB rating, the less signal strength is going to be lost by the system or the equipment.
Determine Signal Path
Before installing your splitter, determine how you would like the Dish satellite signal to be distributed. You will then connect a coaxial cable from your satellite dish directly to a ‘splitter in’ port. Cables will then connect the output ports to each room in which you would wish to have the satellite TV.
Reduce the number of splits, as the more splits are made, the weaker the satellite signal will become. Every time you split a feed, you cause a little signal drop-off or attenuation as it is sometimes called. Do not divide the signal more than 4 ways as Dish transmits some of the signals that are weak and may be lost if the splitting is done beyond this level.
Mount The Satellite Splitter
Mount the satellite splitter is a place in your home where it is easily accessible, for instance, near the Dish receiver by the television or on the side of the house where the dish cable is getting in. It is also important to position the splitter as close to the beginning of the line coming from the satellite as possible to ensure that the signal is not lost through the length of the cable.
Ensure that the splitter is properly mounted by following manufacturer instructions. If relocating outdoors, place it in a protected case or an enclosure that will protect it from adverse weather conditions. The ports where you will connect the incoming line from the dish and the outgoing line to other rooms should be properly labeled. Make sure all cables are properly tied up especially those in the front and back of the unit.
Route & Connect Cables
Connect a coaxial cable line from your central splitter location to every room where you wish to have satellite TV reception. The cables are connected to the output terminals located at the rear part of the splitter. Choose cables that are rated for satellite signals, not the normal RG59 cable. Coaxial cable is preferable and the RG6 quad-shielded cable is the very best to counter interference.
There should always be more than adequate cable in each room for hooking up your Dish receiver boxes. Attach one terminal to the wall plate and the other end to the satellite terminals available at the rear side of each Dish receiver. Make sure the cables are well fixed with no sharp bending or contact with water.
Confirm Signal Strength
Before you can finish all cables to your satellite splitter you should check whether the signal strength is sufficient or not. Switch on each satellite receiver in various rooms and navigate to the signal menu that displays the information.
According to the Dish installation guide, most of their programs need signal strength of over 50, with 60+ being preferable. If any of the TVs are low or have no signal after the split, use an amplified splitter to raise the levels or deduce the splits.
This sums up the process of aligning the splitter connections to ensure that you achieve the signal quality that you want for all the satellite receivers and television sets in your house. Thanks to decoding the signal feed from your dish, you can now watch Dish Network satellite programming on more than one television.
Additional Tips
Here are some other handy tips to effectively split a Dish Network satellite signal:
- It is important to distinguish the splitter input and the output cables to avoid confusion while connecting multiple TVs. Finally, distinguish it with colored tape or a marker.
- It is also good to check your signal levels from time to time especially if you have experienced a storm that might have affected cables and connections.
- Ideally, the satellite splitter should not be connected to the cable splitter connections to offer the best performance. Split the satellite and cable line.
- All coaxial port thread fittings must be lubricated with RG6 sealant grease to avoid moisture penetration.
- If you are seeking a less conspicuous appearance, you should think about having your cabling hidden within the walls. If running the exterior, utilize a conduit or clips to securely connect.
- Ensure you properly connect your satellite cables and avoid bringing them close to any electrical cables or equipment that can interfere with signals.
If you install a satellite signal splitter perfectly, it allows you to watch Dish programming in other rooms in your home without having to purchase additional receivers. Adhering to all the professional tech guidelines that Dish prescribes enables ensuring signal strength adequate to all your TV hookups. Quality cabling and splitters for Satellite TV distribution will therefore allow you to view your favorite programs in every corner of your home.
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.