No splitter with HD?

[ned4sped]

I am switching from Comcast to DirecTV. My home is less than 2 years old. The builder has the cable come in from the ground floor then go to the attic. From there the cable is distributed throughout the house. I need the dish to be on the back of the roof (association rules), and the box to be in the basement (3 floors).

I had a installer come out and he said that DirecTv does not work with a splitter. My question is why? I have a HD DVR through comcast ( the motorola box ) and the signal quality is good. I called DirecTv today and got this response from the girl that answered the phone. "Only our SD signals can go through a splitter." Why?

I just want to be able to use the existing cable in my home. I have switched to DSL, so nothing will be on the line.

 

[Andrewwski]

SD signals can't even go through a splitter.

Each receiver needs a direct connection to the LNB or multiswitch.

Cable and satellite work much differently.

I could get into details if you want, but the important thing is that you CANNOT use a splitter. (Well, there's times you can, but not for what you're doing).

SD, HD, doesn't matter. No splitters.

 

[ned4sped]

There is only goign to be one receiver ( HD DVR ) conected. I was trying to use the existing cable. with out having to drill new holes. I live in the chicago area, and would like the holes in my insulation to a minimum

 

[Jimbo]

There is only goign to be one receiver ( HD DVR ) conected. I was trying to use the existing cable. with out having to drill new holes. I live in the chicago area, and would like the holes in my insulation to a minimum

I suppose you could try using a Multiswitch in the attic where the splitter is located, it's not the perfect solution, but it may work for you.
If your into the HD stuff , it sounds like you are, you will need a WB 6x8 switch.

Before you do that, lets see what others have to say ....
Also guys, would he have to run all 4 lines to the MS ?
I know I normally do that, but it that a requirement, does it have to be done that way ?

Jimbo

 

[Andrewwski]

No use for a multiswitch with less than four tuners.

You could wait for the single wire multiswitch, that would do what you want. Or utilise only one tuner of the DVR.

 

[ned4sped]

found this which answers my question.
High Definition Blog » Connecting Multiple Directv Receivers

Guess I'll just have to make sure I seal up the holes the installer puts in.

 

[iwc5893]

Before you do that, lets see what others have to say ....
Also guys, would he have to run all 4 lines to the MS ?
I know I normally do that, but it that a requirement, does it have to be done that way ?

Jimbo

Yes, it does. In order to receive all 5 sats, and get all of the new HD programming, you need all 4 inputs to the MS (or use the built in MS)