How to Hook Up a 2nd Direct TV Receiver

The LNB is connected to the arm extending out from the satellite dish.

DirecTV provides satellite programming to millions of customers around the country. DirecTV and its biggest competitor, Dish Network, are considered the top two satellite companies for home and business users. Adding another DirecTV receiver to your setup will allow you to watch satellite television in a second location. Most homeowners can accomplish this without the assistance of a professional satellite installer, since only a few tools and a basic understanding of satellite system is required.

Things You'll Need

• Screwdriver
• Drill and bits (optional)
• Coaxial cable
• Wire cutters
• Connectors
• Connector tool
• Wall plate, plugs or sealant (optional)

Instructions

1. Locate the ground block that typically is found within close proximity to the satellite dish. See if there are two cables coming from the dish to the ground block. If there is, skip to Step 5. If not, add a second line as detailed in the next three steps.

2. Carefully unscrew and remove the LNB located on the arm extending out from the DirecTV dish. Do not move the dish or you may have to adjust the alignment.

3. Connect a coaxial cable to the second jack on the LNB, and then reattach the LNB to the DirecTV satellite dish.

4. Run this coaxial cable from the dish to the location of the ground block, and then cut the cable. Use the connector tool to put a connector on the cable securely and then connect it to the ground block.

5. Add another connector to the coaxial cable and then attach it to the opposite side on the ground block. Run this second cable to the room or site of your other DirecTV receiver.

6. Cut the coaxial cable a little longer than needed at the location of your second receiver. Attach a connector to the cable and then connect it to the back of the second receiver using the "Sat IN" jack.

7. Connect the receiver to the television using either a single coaxial cable, or a set of RCA (red, white and yellow) cables. Use the coaxial jacks on both, or the A/V OUT jacks on the receiver and the A/V IN jacks on the television.

Tips & Warnings

• If the ground block in your setup only has a place for one connection, you will have to get a dual ground block to use in its place.

• Use wall plates, plugs or a sealant for seal holes drilled in any walls for the connection.

• If you need to drill through any walls to reach the second receiver's location, make sure there is no electrical and network wiring or any plumbing pipes in the area. Use a qualified installer, if you are not certain.

References

• DirecTV: Receiver Manuals

Resources

• DirecTV