the sky is clearing:
I have a mother-in-law I'm trying to accomodate...
After looking at the cost of multiswitches, new LNBs, and everything required to share 4 dishes, I'm thinking I should just buy her a motorized setup and isolate her completely from the equation.
Well, now we have a goal. This is no longer a general discussion.
There are a number of users on the forum who've built up systems much like what you've described.
The instant switching and permanent alignment of fixed dishes has its appeal.
Four LNBs and two (to four) receivers is no big deal.
It's not the major expense you think, either.
Just had a brainstorming & on-line shopping session with one of the members.
Can't remember all the details, but it seems we found the 4x4 multiswitches for around $25.
You'd use two.
And I've seen dual-output LNBs in the under-$20 range.
Four for you.
To that, you'd need to add a pair of 4x1 diseqc switches, which go for free to $5.
For two receivers.
But with two more diseqc switches, this would expand to four total receivers.
With two more multiswitches and necessary LNBs, you could grow to eight LNBs.
Check out our FAQ on Switches for
details.
AND, those were
powered multiswitches (which I prefer).
And most of the equipment was from our sponsors.