Help needed with EMP-Centauri 8x1 switches

[LowNoiseBloke]

I've just bought a pair of these switches to extend the lnb choice on a DB7000 and DB7020. They're the sort that have a reddish/pinkish plastic weatherproof housing. Problem is they seem to be well and truly jammed into the housings and I'm not certain whether or how I should try to get them out. The diseqc mode switches are not accessible without removing the housings and the space for connecting the F-plugs looks very tight. If anyone has any practical experience of handling these switches I would be grateful to hear it. The factory-set diseqc mode is 1.2 so I suppose I could set the DBs up to drive the switches like a motor but if I do need to change this then how much brute force should I use to remove the housings ?. Thanks in advance for any comments.

 

[sonnetpete]

Not sure about EMP Centauri as I've used Spaun but isn't there a plastic lug or clip on the back that secures the metal housing of the switch? Other than that all I can suggest is popping a F connector on a middle input and using that for extra purchase. I agree it's very fiddly to get the F connectors on, though obviously easier if the switch is out of it's housing until it's all connected up and working, then secured in the weatherproof housing.

 

[timo_w2s]

I've used a number of these switches and the covers are a bit stiff but I think there is a little plastic lug that jams the switch into the cover so you might need to ease it over that which may be easier to do when inside in the warmth rather than when the plastic is cold outside.

 

[LowNoiseBloke]

Thanks for the helpful comments chaps. It sounds like a pair of long nose pliers and a flat blade screwdriver are needed to simply prise the switches out of the housings, with an F-connector to protect the threads.

 

[Piltdownpaul]

Had the same trouble with my centauri 16 way, twas well stuck in the plastic sleeve. I ended up putting an f connector on the switcher box to get some purchase.