direct tv or something else?

[taddyport]

this is something that I know absolutely nothing about and am not even sure how to find the information. I have read a lot of the different posts on questions but I don't even know where to start. Obviously getting direct tv, or something similar is something that you can do. What do I look for in their packages that are going to be specific for an RV, in my case a TT. How hard are they to install, how much do they cost?

thanks

[Bill_Satellite]

They have and will install a complete system in an RV but that is not universally true. They will also not do any wiring other than connecting to your existing antenna if you already have an automatic or a properly pointed ground dish. They have an "RV Kit" which is a dish on a large platform that they point once. If you move, it's all on you to pack it up and point at the next location.
You will generally get the best results if you are in an area where there are lots of RVers. AZ, TX, FL in the Winter as an example.

[nomad297]

sdianel wrote:
(they won't install in an RV anyhow).

They installed it in my travel trailer.

Bruce

[Dutch_12078]

If your planned satellite usage will be intermittent, with a month or more between uses at times, Dish offers a "Pay-As-You-Go" no-contract service that works well for part-time RV'ers and seasonal folks, such as snowbirds. DirecTV does not have a similar option. With no contract, you do need to purchase your own equipment though, and arrange your own installation.

[Bill_Satellite]

taddyport wrote:
this is something that I know absolutely nothing about and am not even sure how to find the information. I have read a lot of the different posts on questions but I don't even know where to start. Obviously getting direct tv, or something similar is something that you can do. What do I look for in their packages that are going to be specific for an RV, in my case a TT. How hard are they to install, how much do they cost?

thanks

There are no RV packages. You just buy a home DirecTV/Dish subscription and use it where ever you like. DirecTV requires a contract and Dish can be subscribed to for as little as 30 days.
What you will need in an RV is an antenna that is portable. That could be a pricy roof mounted automatic antenna or something as simple (but difficult) home-style antenna mounted on a tripod.

[sdianel_-acct_c]

Do you want it just for the TT? If so, you will need a satellite dish. If you can afford it, I would get a carryout easy to use portable dish. http://www.campingworld.com/shopping/item/gm-2000-carryout-g2-automatic-portable-satellite-antenna-white/76528
If you don't want to spend that much on a satellite, get a dish with tripod. http://www.installeroasis.com/directv-satellite-dish-tripod-kit-for-rv-tailgating/?gclid=CPLnx9C-jr8CFUcV7Aodz1QAUw

Once you get the dish, call Directv and order a basic receiver and the package you want based on programming. They are clearly listed on their website www.directv.com and you can compare plans. Tell them it's for an RV and you do not need installation. (they won't install in an RV anyhow).
It's a bit tricky to learn to aim the satellite dish with tripod. The rest of the install is easy.

[taddyport]

2oldman wrote:
Sat TV for RVs

In case you have a house;
Take receiver from house

Basic DTV from house

Directv on the road from house

great links for me to get started in my search, thanks a ton. As always, I came to the right source with my questions

[MitchF150]

My Dad, who never let us kids take even a portable cassette player camping when we were kids (I did smuggle it however.. 🙂 ) now does not go anywhere, even boondocking, without his satellite TV.. 🙂

From what I understand, he has the same service for home, so he just takes his home receiver (2 actually, because Mom does not watch the same programs he does! 🙂 ) and he has a portable dish on a tri pod that he sets up outside and points south.

He runs a separate cable and wired his 5th wheel for just SAT service, which is different from the standard CABLE service..

Once dialed in and all he has the same SAT service he does from home.

Even thou I smuggled that cassette player as a kid, and I take a DVD player and TV with me camping, I haven't seen the need to go the full SAT setup yet.. 😉

I wish I can ween myself of the damn cell phone when I'm on 'vacation', but being the Sys Admin for my firm with no backup, I'm it if someone can't print! 🙂

Good luck!

Mitch

[2oldman]

Sat TV for RVs

In case you have a house;
Take receiver from house

Basic DTV from house

Directv on the road from house