Which Switch?

[sonnetpete]

I've reached the stage in my multi sat project, http://www.satellites.co.uk/forums/...systems/191385-monoblocks-multi-sat-dish.html where I'm going to order the LNB's to complete the total needed (15 LNB's in all).

It makes sense to order the switches at the same time but I admit to being confused with commited, uncommited and which arrangement would be better. So, I'm looking for advice.

Bear in mind that I'm trying to add the 15 LNB's + my motorised dish to switches which will allow me to swap between fixed and motor just using my VU+ Solo. I've seen an EMP Centauri 16/1 and thought it alone might be sufficient but I have a feeling it's more complex than that. I've also looked at a layout for 16 LNB's using four Spaun 410's into a Spaun 420. I want to do this as cheaply and simply as possible but don't want to buy equipment that isn't up to the job, as when it breaks down it will be a false economy.

 

[sonnetpete]

Having read through various threads and looked at helpful diagrams, I'm close to being committed myself so.....

My current thinking is four 4/1 diseqc 1.0 committed switches feeding a 8/1 diseqc 1.1 uncommitted switch (to give me some capacity for expansion) If someone could confirm that that arrangement would work I'll put in an order. I'm still confused (LOL I was born confused) about where the motor fits in with a switching arrangement. Will it not be compatible with the switches using usals and if I change to 1.2 motor control will it then work?

Edit : I should explain that the old thread title no longer applies, as I'm not now considering putting monoblocks in a multisat setup.

 

[Hakon]

The best switch are SPAUN.
If you go for a 8/1 or a 16/1 have in mind if it brakes you loose more than if one of the SPAUN would break.
I have had several EMP 8/1 that has broke, but none SPAUN.
Yes it's possible to run a motor trough a DiSEqC switch.The best way is to have a dual tuner box ,one for the multi setup and one for the motor.

If im not remember wrong the EMP 8/1 has only 4 Uncommitted ports (nr 5-8) that runs with DiSEqC 1.1 , the first 4 is 1.0

 

[sonnetpete]

The best switch are SPAUN......

I know that Spaun are the best switches but I have to think about the cost. If I went for the same arrangement as you it would be over €130. Then if you add in a VU+ Duo so I can use the motor, it's no longer a budget project!! In reality the project is only going to have a life of five years or so, unless I can find another satellite nut to buy this house when I leave!! So, you can understand why I'm reluctant to spend a lot, I'll take a little time to consider the options though.

 

[Hakon]

You don't have to buy a Vu Duo , as i wrote it's possible to run a motor via a DiSEqC switch (as long as you use DiSEqC 1.2 for the motor).
Never heard about a USALS trough a switch.

It's not necessary to use SPAUN all the way, but the Uncomitted would be a SPAUN, then you can use cheaper Comitted standard switch .

 

[Robbo]

Shouldn't make any difference whether it is Diseqc 1.2 or USALS, as Diseqc 1.2 commands are used either way.

Ive had a Diseqc 1.2 motor working with USALS through a Diseqc 1.0 switch.

 

[sonnetpete]

Just to let you all know, I've ordered the switches and the rest of the LNB's I need to complete the project. Thanks for the input Hakon and Robbo. (I'll sort out the switch for the motor and how to include it in my overall system later)