Where to put a DiSEqC switch

[allstarnz]

I'm about to change my setup, so my DiSEqC switch will go outside instead of inside.

How hardy are these things to rain etc?

Do I need to make some sort of cover to protect if from rain?

[beer4life]

I'm about to change my setup, so my DiSEqC switch will go outside instead of inside.

How hardy are these things to rain etc?

Do I need to make some sort of cover to protect if from rain?

G'Day,
You must seal any unused sockets.
There is a special tape (the name escapes me atm), that stretches and binds to itself. Make sure you use this to seal around the co-ax/F connectors.
Apart from that, should have no problems as they are designed for outdoors.
Just another little tip. Where your co-ax goes through the outside wall, make it loop down a few inches so that water does not run down into your wall cavity.
Kindest Regards, "The Druid ".

[vk6xlr]

There is a special tape (the name escapes me atm), that stretches and binds to itself. Make sure you use this to seal around the co-ax/F connectors.

Self-amalgamating tape.

[tristen]

Weatherproof diseqc switches are available. A two-way version is available here: .
Wrap self-amagamating tape securely around the joints - over the whole of the "F" connector including the co-axial cable so that there is no possibility of moisture getting into the cable or the connector. Apply it under tension (stretch it) so that it "sticks" securely.

3 metre reels of self-amalgamating tape are available from DSE stores at a reasonable price.

[allstarnz]

thanks guys.

DSE don't have any tape in stock here, but I can get some from Jaycar.

[Kavakid]

I just spray paint mine - 3 coats, its easier to undo the f connectors later if you need to.

KK

[ol' boy]

Another neat little trick i do is just house the switch in an old Masthead Amp case. Just drill holes in the side for cable entry, the RG6 cables hold the switch in place, put a little silicone around the holes and you are done.
You now have a handy slide up lid if you need access, it comes with bracktes to bolt onto the pipe. There are drain holes at the bottom (not that it will ever need them).
And your switch is kept nice and clean and away from the elements.
I don't even bother with the tape when i do this.


Something like this, but this is the newer case with a hinging lid. Yet if you buy the right type of switch, it will work in these cases, as all the connections should face down. It looks a hell of a lot neater too.



Or you could get all "Bush Mechanic" over it, and just stuff the lot inside an upturned empty plastic drinks bottle which had been cut in half. Then just cable tie that to the pole A shampoo bottle works well

This little pouches are good too



You can buy proper outdoor Diseqc switches, they come with an IP rating. Those cheap indoor one have no such IP at all. Sure, they will probably be ok outside, but if it was mine, i'd want it in a cover of some discription

[mandc]

thanks guys.

DSE don't have any tape in stock here, but I can get some from Jaycar.

CAT. NO. NM2826
Self Amalgamating Tape - 10mt

This insulating tape will "cure" into a single mass (once applied) to help seal and waterproof cable, wires or even pipes. The tape has good corona resisting properties and can be used on high voltage cables. - Useful where water and chemical resistance is important.- Corona resistant- Chemical resistant- Self amalamating- Length: 10 metres
QTY
1+ $19.95
4+ $17.70
10+ $15.70

[Dave001]

I always run the DiSeqC switch outside at the dish. I don't bother with self amalgamating tape, I just use dielectric grease and 75ohm terminators on any unused ports.

[LeroyPatrol]

I always run the DiSeqC switch outside at the dish. I don't bother with self amalgamating tape, I just use dielectric grease and 75ohm terminators on any unused ports.

Gee they cost bugger all. I have 4 unterminated inputs on my multiswitch. I remeber cwispy saying unused inputs should also be terminated. But I haven't had any issues.

Leroy

[allstarnz]

i'm still waiting on my last bit before getting my setup up and going.

However, I have a small plastic box, enough terminators, and some self amalgamating tape. You guys are right though, not sure if i'd want to do it all with tape though, quite likely i'll want to change/dismantle at some point