How to Hook Up a Second DirecTV Receiver
By Diane Dilov-Schultheis
DirecTV is one of the leading satellite companies in the United States. DirecTV provides millions of customers with satellite television every day. A basic satellite setup includes one DirecTV receiver connected to one television set but you may want to watch TV in another room also. This kind of a setup requires you to hook up a second DirecTV receiver in this location, since each television needs its own satellite receiver to broadcast satellite programming. This does require basic satellite installation knowledge to complete properly.
Step 1
Check to see if there is a second coaxial cable coming from the satellite dish to the ground block (it should be within three to five feet of your satellite dish). Add a cable to the dish, if needed, as described in Step 2.
Step 2
Carefully remove the LNB that extends out from the dish with a screwdriver without moving the satellite dish. The slightest alteration in the dish alignment can affect the satellite signal.
Step 3
Attach a coaxial cable to the second jack on the LNB. Replace the LNB on the dish.
Step 4
Run this cable to the ground block. Cut the cable at this location with wire cutters.
Step 5
Add a connector to the cable. Attach this cable to the ground block. If there is a single ground block, replace it with a dual one.
Step 6
Attach a connector to additional cable and connect it to the other side of the ground block. Run this cable from this location to the site of the second DirecTV receiver.
Step 7
Use a drill with the proper bit to go through any walls or flooring, if necessary. Seal these holes using plugs or sealant.
Step 8
Insert a wall plate for the satellite cable in a nearby wall if you want, or simply run the cable directly to the receiver. This varies depending on your building type and specific wants.
Step 9
Cut the coaxial cable and attach a connector to it. Connect this cable to the second DirecTV receiver.
References
Tips
- You may have to run the cable from the attic down through the wall, or what is known as “wall fish,” if you want to install a wall plate in a house or building. Mobile home satellite wiring often goes through the flooring in place of the walls.
Warnings
- Do not drill a hole to run your satellite cable in any areas that contain electrical wiring, home networking cables or water pipes. If you are not sure, hire a professional.
Writer Bio
Diane Dilov-Schultheis has been writing professionally since 2000. She is a food and travel writer who also specializes in gaming, satellites, RV repair, gardening, finances and electronics. She is a member of the Society of Professional Journalists and has been published online at the Travel Channel and Intel.