no lnb load

closetosoton

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In the days on old Analogue Satellite systems I beleive it was reasonably easy to blow the receiver output stage/lnb by unplugging whilst it was still powered. I guess things are a little more resiliant these days - but my question for today is: is it OK to power up a receiver with no LNB on its output(s)?

For example: if I displace my receiver to mate it to my PC for software gigery-pokery, I have no access to RF cabling, thus its desirable to be able to turn it on without plugging in an LNB - would this present a problem? To date I've always ensured a cable/LNB was plugged in before powering on a receiver.

-cts
 

Analoguesat

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Blowing the outputs by plugging it in without an LNB is a new one on me! Ive done it regularly on all my receivers - and connected the f-conns whilst its on - now thats not recommended!!
 

gameboy

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closetosoton said:
I have no access to RF cabling, thus its desirable to be able to turn it on without plugging in an LNB - would this present a problem?

When I first started with my DreamBox, to update it, I had to plug it in near the PC (no LNB cable near) and never had a problem.

Did this many times over a few weeks.

If that helps.
 

PaulR

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Going back a few decades It was inadvisable to switch on a valve amplifier without a loudpeaker to load the ouput stage. Without the load there was a large back emf which could spark across the valves and/or transformers.

When transistors arrived the position was reversed. Short circuits were the new enemy whilst leaving the output unconnected had no effect.

What's this got to do with satellite receivers? Probably nothing.

PaulR
 

twag42

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its perfectly harmless to just plug your receiver in/on without being connected to the dish.
 
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