FYI-Multi-Switch

[ggames]

Hi,
I just upgraded my D* system with a 5 LNB Slimline Dish.
The technician installed; left and I checked the channels.
No HD on new channels! Just "searching for satellite 771".
Called D* and the guy was excellent. He nailed the cause as an outmoded multi-switch which was replaced today (11/01/07) by a different techie, with a wideband rig.
Everything works perfect now.
FYI-Nowhere in the online D* site does it mention the multi-switch upgrade and, according to my technician, it is the single most overlooked gadget in the upgrade process.
He said the technicians must make sure (by surfing the channels) that the multi-switch is passing the signal to the receiver.
Most techs just check the satellite status screen for an "OK" on each of the five satellites. This IS NOT good enough.
Don't let the techie leave until they surf the channels and go to the Smithonian channel at 267.
According to my techie, THAT channel is at the very top of the KU band and if you can receive that signal, you'll get them all.

I'm new here and have been lurking during my upgrade.
Just thought I'd share my experience with you.

Thank You for listening (reading).
ggames
New York State

 

[hjenssen]

I currently have a 3 lnb HD dish.

If I install the new 5 LNB dish will I have to change my multi switch also?

Is there any thing else I might need to change?
Thanks
Herb

 

[ScoBuck]

I currently have a 3 lnb HD dish.

If I install the new 5 LNB dish will I have to change my multi switch also?

Is there any thing else I might need to change?
Thanks
Herb

Yes - you need a multi-switch designed for the Ka high and low band signals. When you order your install of the new dish, they will bring the the new switch as well.

Not to forget you also have to have a MPEG4 capable IRD or DVR, or you still can't get the new channels.

 

[hjenssen]

I already have the receiver and plan on installing the 5 LNB myself.

Is there a name for this new switch?
Thanks
Herb

 

[Matt9876]

Zinwell WB68 works great.

Matt


Zinwell WB68 DIRECTV Approved Wide Band Frequency (Ku/Ka) 6x8 Multiswitch (WB68) | WB68 [Zinwell] | au9 au9-s au9s au 9 WB-68 WB 68 6x8 6 x 8 Ka Ku switch ku ka switch wide band switch Ka-ku dish ku band ka band dish Ka/Ku Ka-Ka Ka-Ku Ku-Ka KuKa KuKa

 

[hjenssen]

I guess that's all I should need for the switch to a 5 LNB dish so I can get all the available HD channels.

Thanks for the info!
Herb

 

[jdspencer]

You don't need a switch if all you need are 4 outputs.

 

[hjenssen]

Ok, so whatever cables I have with My 3 LNB dish I just hook up to the new 5 LNB dish and I'm ready to go, right?

As long as I only need four receivers.

At the present time I'm only using one receiver.
Thanks
Herb

 

[dishrich]

You don't need a switch if all you need are 4 outputs.

But you DO still need it if you have to combine it with a 72.5 dish for SD locals &/or 95 international dish - regardless of how many outputs you need.