by: Mitchell Medford

One of Dish Network's offers is free installation of all equipment and service to first time subscribers. This is excellent because you are assured of expert installation initially. There may come a time, though, when you either must change Dish Network's Dish because of necessity or just because you want to change it. Whatever the reason, it is easily accomplished with some precaution.

The actual Dish Network Dish is small, about 2 to 2 l/2 feet in diameter, and mounts quite easily on an outside wall, a veranda, roofing, fences, or even the roofs or sides of garages. It is light in weight and this makes it even easier to fasten. Each Dish Network Dish has two antennas, and they should always be pointed toward or facing the Southern sky. Each of these antennas is instrumental in intercepting and transmitting satellite signals onto your television screen. When choosing a new location for your Dish, be sure you look at the environment well so there will be no future obstructions of the signal transmission. Place it away from trees, places where children play, buildings, other wiring, any thing that might get in the way of satellite transmissions. Dish Network's satellite dish must be pointing directly and unobstructed at a Southern sky at all times. This assures you of uninterrupted signal transmission from Dish Network's satellites and the best in quality program viewing on your television system.

There may be occasion when mounting of the Dish is just not possible. If such an instance should present, Dish Network includes, in their promotional offer, a tripod stand. This alternative to wall or roof mounting is great for use in apartments or condominiums - especially if there are rules that prohibit nailing and mounting objects on dwelling exteriors. The only problem with using a tripod is that it is highly sensitive. The tripod and Dish Network Dish need to be placed far and away from people or animals that may cause it to tip in any way. Sometimes people and animals may bump into the tripod and even the slightest touch can interrupt your reception. When this happens, your television screen will indicate that the Dish is looking for a signal. Then you will need to lightly touch or tap your satellite dish until begin transmitting is resumed and the imaging is restored on the television screen.

It is assumed that the question is being asked: Well, if Dish Network's Dish is so sensitive that even a bump or nudge will knock it out of line, then how does it withstand being mounted on walls with the wind, rain, snow, etc., hitting it constantly? The only thing I can think of is that with the Dish being stationary, it is secure and receiving a constant line of signaling; when jolted, it interrupts the flow of signaling from satellites and throws it into chaos until secured again. Who knows? Your guess is as good as mine in this regard.