Originally Posted by RandallA
It depends on the quality of the RG6 cable. Some RG6 cable might be able to handle the high frequencies even though it says that it's been swept tested to 1000 MHz. They just didn't test it to higher frequencies. Good quality cable should be able to handle the high frequencies.
The problem is you don't know if it's gonna be able to handle it unless you run some test on the cable. Might as well just make sure it's rated 2250 MHz and be done with it.
Thanks for the response.
I assume there isn't any testing that I could do short of having an install and seeing the results?
Do you know, in general, how careful Dish installers are with running cables so they are at least well hidden. I have both attic and basement, allowing pretty reasonable access to 1st and 2nd floors.
If what you have happens to be Belden 1189A, then you're probably good to go. That's only swept to 1000MHz, but I have read in several places that it is acceptable to much higher frequencies (stated by a Belden engineer in one case, IIRC). At 1000MHz, the CATV-rated 1189A has 6.54 dB loss per 100' whereas the superior sat.-rated Belden 1694A is 5.89 dB for the same frequency and length. That's not a huge difference especially for shorter runs. Even tho' the rolloff might be steeper on the 1189A, I don't think the max. frequency will be much lower, or at least certainly beyond 2250MHz. If it's another brand, then all bets are off. If running the sat.-rated cable presents any problems or added cost, I would certainly try what you have first IIWU.
What constitutes a "quality" job varies considerably. If you or your wife are particular about certain aspects of the installation your are well advised to either DIY or else find a local installer who will be more concerned about repeat business. Discuss your expectations/concerns with him BEFORE he starts the job so you won't have any surprises later...!
PS - I'm not suggesting that you use the 1694A cable as a replacement. It's quite expensive. You'll find much lower-costing cable, probably 10-cents a foot or less, that will be quite suitable to 2250MHz...