Satellite
Satellite Systems / Dishes for Caravans, Motorhomes & Boats
Sick of trying to get a decent digital tv signal via an aerial?
You're not alone. Many people speak to me because they are sick of not being able to get a decent picture. Unfortunately this is a downfall of a few elements, one of which is poor quality aerials (typically the older flying saucer type aerial), and another is the failings of the UK transmitter system,. Being landmast based, it is affected by the terrain and distance from the transmitter.
So what can I suggest...??
Well, there is a way that almost guarantees a good quality picture no matter where in the UK you are, as long as you have clear line of sight south. It's satellite tv and its definitely the best format in my opinion. With a wide range of equipment, there is a set-up for every budget. Satellite tv also has the added bonus of being transmitted across Europe, so even when you're on the continent, you will be able to watch English channels (footprint permitting - call us to discuss your requirements for watching tv in Europe). Channels broadcast on free-to-air satellite are very similar to UK Freeview (terrestrial digital through our aerial). Take a look at www.freesat.co.uk to see a list of some of the channels available.
What do you need and what will it cost...??
First, we need to sort you out with a dish. There are three main options:
1) Tripod kits - these are a great low-price introduction to satellite, although typically take more practice to tune in. A typical starter kit has everything in you will need (except a TV). Click HERE for an example of a kit which is great for use in the UK and Northern France.
2) Manual Roof Mounted Systems - The most popular of these is the Maxview B2590 Crank Up. We sell and fit a lot of them and ithey are a good compromise between a tripod system and a fully auto system. We are well known for this system and are one of the only dealers that are happy to fit one. Only downside is once it's fitted, it's fitted for good as it requires a 32mm hole through your roof. Upsides are its price and ease of use. This product is suitable for DIY fitting and comes with full instructions. It comes in two sizes, 65cm and 85cm. Worried about tuning it in yourself? Dont be, a full tutorial is part of our fitting service.
3) Automatic System - These come in dishes and domes. They do all the hard work for you, spinning the dish round and locking onto the satellite signal themselves. It really is as easy as switching the system on and sitting down to watch tv! These systems, although more expensive than options 1 and 2, should be considered as a long term investment, as they can be easily transferred from vehicle to vehicle, so should last you a good number of years.
Satellite is broadcast in a different format to digital terrestrial (freeview), so you will need a satellite receiver. There are a few types of receiver. The most common is a free-to-air receiver that will receive channels on any satellite that are broadcast unencrypted - there are no ongoing charges. Once you've bought the box, everything is free. Same can be said of a freesat box, although we only recommend these on automatic systems, as they are usually more difficult to tune in with manual dish systems as they don't have a built in signal meter and react more slowly than free-to-air boxes You can also use a Sky receiver with any of our dishes, although if you plan to use your box from home, you must be aware that you may be breaking your contract/terms and conditions with Sky - check, as we can't be held responsible for Sky cutting you off!
Of course you also need a suitable tv with AV inputs (Scart, HDMI or composite (phono plugs, yellow, red, white)). If you dont' have one already, we carry a great range of leisure televisions for every budget and application.
Confused? Don't worry, I'm only an email or phone call away and this is my speciality. I'm more than happy to talk it through with you before you decide. Shane.