Freesat self install

Huffpuffin · 25-10-2009, 15:21

Hi
Hope I've posted in the right place.

For some time now I have used VM's analogue feed to replace a poor quality terrestial aerial. However, since 1st October VM have started switching this off (only get BBC1 and ITV1 now).

I have decide to give Freesat a go (in addition to VM TV). After much research, I have decided to try a self-install.

I have one question I'm hoping someone can answer. Is it possible (or even, is it advisable) to combine the cable from the dish to the Freesat STB, with the VM cable running from outside the house to the VM STB, using diplexers?

Any advice gratefully received, before I make a complete fool of myself, and "'er indoors" says "I told you so!"

TIA

Kymmy · 25-10-2009, 15:45

Diplexers are great for using one cable to transport multiple frequencies, as cable uses below 900Mhz and sat uses 900-1200Mhz then yes a diplexer might sound ideal, but you will come unstuck on four points...

1# Sat cable have a DC voltage on them for powering and also polarity switching of the LNB there are specialist diplexers out there that can cope with the voltage but not many do it well.
2# If you buy or later upgrade to a freesat PVR then you'll need at least dual cable for the twin LNB and in that instance a diplexer can't help
3# Cable is bidirectional and a diplexer will effect the signal levels for both TV and broadband
4# It's against VM's Terms&conditions to mess around with the cable system in this way.

Huffpuffin · 25-10-2009, 16:01

Many thanks Kymmy for the quick reply.

I half-suspected that there might be some reason not to do it, so in light of your detailed reply, I will just lay down a new cable to the Freesat STB.

Thanks again, and keep up the good work!

Kymmy · 25-10-2009, 16:03

Can I suggest laying down a double cable?? Just that in the future if you do go for a PVR then you'll need it for the twin LNB

**Chris** · 25-10-2009, 16:18

To add to Kymmy's post above, some sat installers have tried using diplexers for PVR installations where it's only practical to use a single cable between the LNB outputs and the STB inputs. However many of those who have tried it have since given them up as unreliable, as the list of caveats is as long as your arm. They don't like anything but the highest grades of cable, they don't like any kinks or tight bends in the cable, they don't like long cable runs ... it goes on. All in all not a good idea.