You've taken that first step and ordered your brand new DISH Network satellite system, replete with a satellite mini dish, receiver/receivers, remotes and cables. But now what? Some satellite installers charge as high as $250.00 to install a dish and get your satellite TV system up and running. That's alot of money for most people. For all new Dish Network subscribers, DISH will actually install your entire satellite system for FREE! And the job will be done properly and professionally. Installation usually happens within a few days of placing your order and once the DISH installer is done, he will program your televisions, show you how to operatethe system and answer any questions that you may have.
Now, for those do-it-yourselfers out there; you can do the job yourself; but be
prepared to have a few hours of your time invested. Also, you'll need to have a ladder and the proper tools to install the satellite dish on your rooftop. So unless you are handy around the house; we highly recommend that you take advantage of Dish Network's free installtion offer. All others, read on.
Do-It-Yourself Satellite Dish Installation
First, make sure that the satellite dish will have an unobstructed view of the
southern sky(hemisphere). There must be no obstructions such as tall trees or buildings which would block the signal coming from the DISH satellite. You can mount your Dish Network satellite dish on your sun deck, side of the house or on your roof. The dish should be within 100 feet or so of your TV. Also, if you rent a home or an apartment, you must get written permission of your landlord in order to have the dish installed.
If you decide to install the dish on the roof of your house or garage, you'll need a ladder and also some basic tools, such as a wrench or pair of pliers. You should use a mounting bracket to secure the dish onto the roof. Make sure that the satellite dish is facing the southern sky. Next you'll need to run the coaxial cable from the dish down the side of the house and into your living room or bedrooms where ever your televsions are located. Connecting your satellite system then involves connecting the coaxial cables to your satellite receivers (black boxes) and then last to your television sets. You must also connect your receiver to a telephone jack - this is for ordering Pay Per View, etc. Simply follow the diagram that came with your Dish Network satellite system.
Next, turn your TV on and navigate to the DISH signal strength menu on your screen. This will provide you with the correct azimuth (direction), elevation (angle) and skew (dish rotation) for your home's address so you can correctly aim your satellite dish with the proper coordinates. Now have someone monitor the on-screen signal strength menu while you point the satellite dish in the right southerly direction. By moving the dish slowly up and down you will eventually obtain the maximum signal strength. Be patient as this step could take awhile; but it is important so that you get the very best picture quality possible.
Lastly, you will need to call DISH Network on their 800 toll free number to activate your newly installed system. The DISH operator will simply ask you a few questions so that you and your family can start enjoying all the wonderful programming that Dish Network provides to its subscribers. And all in 100% digital quality audio and video. If you hit a snag, no problem, simply call Dish Network at 1-888-284-7116 and schedule a professional DISH installer to come out and get your new DISH system up and running.
G Alan Davis is owner of Digital Dish, has over five years experience in the satellite TV business, selling both DIRECTV and DISH Network and has written numerous articles on the subject.
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