I've been using the Dish Tailgater with the VIP receiver since late last year. When we aren't using the Tailgater I plug the receiver into our dish at home. I keep it active all the time so I've never really had to have them ping it. If you are worried about arriving at a remote location with an unauthorized receiver just take the 10 minutes at home any day prior to departure and have it authorized. It shouldn't be an issue then when you get there. As far as boondocking goes..... I hear ya. I guess we are all somewhat spoiled when we have to wait the 10 minutes for our HD TV? I hate it too but it's worth the wait.