direct tv multiswitch question

[mom3tcb]

Sorry if this is confusing. I don't know much about this and am trying to figure out what I need. We had 2 Tivo receivers and 2 regular receivers that were installed by Directv. We have since purchased 2 more Tivo units and replaced the 2 regular receivers. We did this ourselves and just hooked one line to each receiver. We now want to add the second lines to each so we have the full Tivo functionality on them. So.....since we already have 2 totally connected Tivos (4 lines total) and 2 Tivos that are partially connected (2 lines total), which gives us a total of 6 lines out, does that mean that we should already have an 8 out multiswitch connected to our dual LNB round dish? In looking around I see 4 and 8 out multiswitches but not a 6 out one. I'm thinking that they don't make a 6 out one, which would mean that we would have to have an 8 out switch already installed. If this holds true, then we should be able to just buy the cables and simply hook them up. Am I right? Any ideas would be appreciated!

Thanks!
Shelia

[TonyTheTiger]

Yes, you're right. Check the multiswitch and you'll almost certainly find that it's a 4x8 with two spare. Run two more cables and you're good to go.

[mom3tcb]

Thanks for your quick reply! That should make it much easier and cheaper, which is always great!

Thanks again!
Shelia

[John T Smith]

would mean that we would have to have an 8 out switch

Follow the wires from the dish to where they connect to the multiswitch and look... then you will be able to ask any more questions (if needed) with an exact description of the brand and model you now have

Once you do that, someone here is sure to be familiar with that brand & model to answer any other questions you may have

[rbtravis]

Make sure you use RG6 cables they are lower noise and higher shielding for satellite signals.:)

[John T Smith]

I recently wired my new house, so a couple things about coax

RG6 comes in dual and quad shield... quad is just slightly more $$, and provides better shielding... especially where the coax might run near or over electric lines

Use the newer compression type fittings (be sure to match the fitting to the dual or quad RG6 type... different thickness) instead of the older crimp fittings... you should be able to find a compression tool and fittings at a Home Depot, as well as the special wire stripper that removes the insulation and shielding in two "stages" to go into the fitting

[mom3tcb]

Thanks everyone for the help. We're going to check it out if it ever quits raining!

~Shelia~