Would you install your own satellite dish (18

[N8Magic]

I am kind of on the fence on this one...

My roommate won a ExpressVu dish at Comdex a while back, and now that we have moved, we've decided to get it up and running.

ExpressVu has a deal on right now where you can get a pro install for $99.00CDN (reg. $199.00). Would you go for that, or do it yourself.

I am leaning towards paying the $99.00, because of the cost for the coax, getting an extension ladder, drilling holes in the wall, etc. I could do it, but it would be a pain in the arse.

What do you think?

 

[snakesnfrogs]

do-it-myself---it's not hard at all

 

[SackOfAllTrades]

i've installed my own satelite dish before. it isn't that hard unless you are afraid and/or have balance issues.

 

[N8Magic]

I know I could do it, I was a telephone installer before, so there are no fear/balance issues. I just don't have a lot of the tools (power drill, 24' extension ladder, etc.)

Isn't good quality coax expensive too?

Maybe i'm just making excuses 'cause i'm lazy!

 

[Shagga]

I installed my Analogue Dish no problems at all. When I changed to Digital, I let someone else do it!

 

[Mungla]

It's a peice of cake! Try installing a 2-LNB directv satellite dish; they're a bit different, being oval and all. The instructions that come with any of the systems make the job considerably easier than most people think. They even put a set of elevation degree markings on them now.


N8Magic, you don't need expensive quad-shielded RG6 for a typical installation. Just grab a bundle of what you need from Radio Shack, it shouldn't cost a lot. Now if you want Belden quad-shield, it'll cost you a bit more - but it's worth it for runs over 100'. On our directv system, we have around 200' of run with quad-shield and our receiver's signal meter is always above 90/100.

 

[Jal]

I installed my ExpressVu dish, not a problem. Not doing this all the time.. I assembled it in the house, and spent the night checking things out.. You only need a clear South West view, and mount the dish to a strong secure structure, with 4 bolts. After that, it is strictly running cable wire from the dish, into the house.

I think you can get a install kit cheap at Costco, approx $45... So if you want to save $45 do it yourself, or pay to have it done by someone else.

 

[N8Magic]

Jal,

That's the thing, I am not sure if I have a clear enough southwest view. The elevation I need is 39.5 degrees, and there is a house across the street that is higher than mine, and may get in the way. That means, it will have to go at the top of the house, which is a pain because I have no ladder.

 

[boomerang]

Hire it done. It's obvious from your posts you don't want to do it. Let the pro installer do it, he's probably got kids to feed.