How to Install DirecTV/Dish Network

Learn how to install DirecTV/Dish Network satellites and receivers with this easy-to-understand manual written by a former technician.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Drill (18 Volt or Higher)
• Hammer Drill (if installing on cement)
• Philipshead screwdriver
• T25 Staple Gun (w/ 14MM Staples)
• Sleeve anchors or nail anchors if installing on cement
• 3 inch lag screws if installing on wood
• Boxcutter
• RG6 Wire Crimper
• Square-jaw pliers
• Socket wrench (for lag screws)
• PPG XML RG6 Fittings
• 125 RG6 Coaxial cable (preferably black)
• RG6 Barrel connectors
• Compass
• 7/26th Drill Bit
• Level
• Signal Finder (optional)

1. 
   Compass

   LINE OF SITE: Find the line of site for the satellite. Generally the direction is SOUTHWEST but can vary depending on which satellite you are attempting to signal towards. Using your compass, find a location for installation that is free of trees, powerlines or other buildings which might interfere with signal.

2. 
   Drill

   ASSEMBLE DISH: Firmly attach foot/base of dish firmly to wall or roof of building using your drill and the required screws for the material you are drilling through. Penetrate outer wall with 7/16th drill bit and place coaxial cable through hole. Crimp connective fitting onto end of cable (ensure that the fitting is clean on the inside to prevent short circuiting) and secure dish onto base. Screw coaxial fitting onto LNB.

3. 
   Coaxial Cable

   CABLES: Affix cable to wall using T25 staple gun with 14MM staples. Ensure no staples penetrate insulation of cable and keep bends in cable to a minimum.

4. 
   Receiver

   SETTING UP RECEIVER: Connect satellite cable to receiver. Connect additional cables such as RCA, S-video, HDMI, and/or coaxial jumper.
   Turn on receiver and wait for software to load. Proceed to dish setup menu.

5. 
   Satellite Dish

   SETTING UP SATELLITE: Using the dish setup menu enter zipcode to get elevation tilt. Pre-adjust tilt and elevation with socket wrench using engraved dial as a guide. Move dish slightly while monitoring signal level for optimal strength. Lowest accepted level is 47% but as strength closer to 100% is preferred. When signal is acquired secure pole clamp on the back of the dish, continue monitoring as you proceed.
   Apply silicone liberally to bolts and holes drilled through walls.

6. 
   Television

   SETTING UP RECEIVER CONT.: Exit dish setup menu and enjoy programming!

Tips & Warnings

• For Cement: Hammer with nail anchors or sleeve anchors
• For Wood: Lag Screws
• If possible use black coaxial cable for exterior, white for interior
• Seal all areas that you have drilled through with silicone, especially roofing
• Ensure that there is no BX power cables or plumbing in area to be drilled
• When using ladders over 20 feet make sure that it is anchored to top of roof or guttering
• If possible prevent people from walking under work area to prevent accidents
• This is a BASIC instruction guide to installing satellites and receivers; refer to professionally-written manuals when installing any electronic device