Singe FTA dish multiple receivers, is it possible?

[Channelone]

I am sure this has been discussed before and understand search first, ask questions later, but when it comes to this I don’t know what to search for and cannot find an answer, one post here is close, but not what I wish to do.

My application, if possible will utilize a single receiver to steer the dish and receive a channel, while the slave receivers will be setup as non-motorized receivers to receive other transponders/channels of the same bird via the split RF output of the LNB.

The questions I am trying to find answers for are what type of LNB is required to receive both polarities simultaneously, I am currently utilizing an INVACOM SNH-031 which works considerably better than the ‘kit” provided LNB.

Can I continue using this LNB?

If not can anyone recommend a good quality LNB that can work?

Second how much of a signal margin from the LNB should I maintain?

My idea was to use a DC pass-through splitter for the primary receiver to the LNB which puts me 3.5 dB down to begin with, from the non-powered side of the splitter I would like to split out 4 more ports, which with cabling knocks me down another oh say 11dB below the LNB output, is that too low of signal for the receivers on the market now, specifically the GEOSTATpro HD?

If needed I believe can put an amp between the non-dc side of the primary splitter and the four port splitter if needed, yes, no, maybe?

Any thoughts?

Thanks
Wayne

 

[Anole]

In the FAQ section, there is a Switches Simplified thread which will give you considerable background on the subject.
Two approaches come to mind, right off:
- use a two-output LNBF, feeding a Multiswitch
- use a band stacked LNBF. It provides both V & H polarities without switching.

The multiswitch approach is fully documented in the FAQ (and we're happy to help with the details)
Please read it all the was through for the basics.

Bandstacked LNBFs are not covered in the FAQ.
In a way they are simpler, but the limited availability of hardware (and understanding) would make this an equally daunting solution for a beginner.
I had this same discussion with a fellow who was putting in receivers for a language lab a few years back.
It turned out that his previous experience with DishNetwork hardware made the band stacked route a perfect solution!

Edit: here's that thread
http://www.satelliteguys.us/threads/242947-Question-about-multi-switches?highlight=DP-34

2nd edit: good discussion on Sadoun bands tacked LNBF
http://www.satelliteguys.us/threads...-Why-Amps-Are-Good-and-Bad?highlight=Feedhorn


PS: and in both case, powered switches would take care of signal levels.

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