Moving to 5 LNB, H20, but with 7 other receivers

[gopherhockey]

I finally took the plunge and ordered up an H20, dish, and installation from DirectTV.

My problem is, and I think others here have had similar, that I have other tuners that need to still get service.

Currently I have a Spaun model DMS 51602 NF HDTV DSS Multiswitch that services 3 HR10-250s and 4 older Sony model non HD capable DirecTivos. All have dual tuner, so I use all but 2 ofthe 16 outputs.

I have been looking at the Zinwell WB616, which seems to be the model that will work with the new receiver AND my old ones. Is this correct?

Also, I see things about "flexports". If I eventally replace all my HR10-250 models with HR20s, will they all work with this switch? In other words, are these "flexports" just a pair of special outputs, or is this what all the ports are capable of?

It also appears you cannot stack this model switch with an off-air antenna. No big deal for me. But can you stack it otherwise and support more HR10 and HR20 models? I probably won't go over 8, but it would be nice to know I can if I want or need.

Oh, and will the installer bring a multiswitch or should I be buying one ahead of time? I assume they won't absorb the cost of a 16 port switch for free even if they had one... but I have read other places where they will install a Zinwell 8 port model and I saw no indication of extra cost.

Thanks for answering this somewhat repetitive question... I just want to be sure.

[JimSpence]

I believe in your case, a WB68 switch will work just fine. Take four of its outputs and feed your current Spaun switch. Everything you have now will work just fine. Then the HR20 will be connected to 2 of the WB68s outputs. Then when you get more HR20s you can eliminate the old switch. It might be better to just get the WB616 now. Everything will work fine with it. You'll need to call DirecTV to ensure they bring the proper sized switch. The flexports on the switch are inputs for the 72.5 and 95 sat signals.

[Want1394]

Jim is correct

But you may want to see what you can negotiate with DirecTV - Spaun has a new series of switches (and they are cheaper!) that handles the new 5-sat setup, and they go to 16 ports. Maybe you can talk DirecTV into paying for one, since you are such a good subscriber .......

[or270]

Oh, and will the installer bring a multiswitch or should I be buying one ahead of time? I assume they won't absorb the cost of a 16 port switch for free even if they had one... but I have read other places where they will install a Zinwell 8 port model and I saw no indication of extra cost.


The installers are required to supply the multiswitches needed to hookup all your active receivers, probably do not have 16 ports, but they cascade 8 ports.
should not be any cost to you.