Community Forums

Still Bill · 03-07-2015, 11:24 PM

We have decided go with the Winegard Pathway X1 and Dish 211Z satellite receiver setup to handle our TV needs for our grand tour of the National Parks in the western US this summer.

One hanging question for us is should we install it on the roof of our RV or keep it portable?

We initially see these pluses between the two so far:

Fixed

Quicker setup upon arrival. Already connected.
Saves need for storage space
Won't leave behind...LOL
Less potential for theft
Installation on roof using the optional mounting kit looks simple

Portable

Better potential reception in areas with blocked signal
Easy connections (for our model of motorhome)
Installation on tripod looks simple

FYI...Our 2013 Itasca Sunstar 30T is prewired with one coax cable already pre-installed to the roof. Just have to drill an access hole to get to it.

Any input about fixed or portable will be appreciated.

Bill

EV2 · 03-07-2015, 11:36 PM

Certainly depends upon your area of travel, but at least for the Midwest we were rarely able to use our roof mounted antenna due to our choice of spots available. The vast majority of locations required a placement well separated from the required parking site. Your mileage may vary.

anthonynalli · 03-07-2015, 11:43 PM

We opted for fixed for quickness of in-service time and not having to find a place to store it. We went with the Trav'ler though as reception issues are reported to be fewer than dome antennas.

The other thing you'll want to do if you go portable is to find ways to minimize the risk of theft.

Anthony

**Lt Dan** · 03-08-2015, 02:16 PM

It is a very simple roof installation with one cable and the three flat mounting brackets. I put an X1 on my roof as I already had a Carryout for sites that are obstructed. The only drawback I have noted is it tends to "hunt" for a signal after the converter box is turned off and it's kind of noisy at night. I contacted Winegard and there is no way to turn that off. Their only solution was to disconnect the coax cable or unplug the converter. I started leaving the converter turned on at night and just turning off the TV. That way it stays locked on the channel.

MSHappyCampers · 03-08-2015, 02:58 PM

You really need a portable unit as there will be many places you park where trees will block the signal. We use the dome on the MH when we can, then use the portable dish if needed!

Fred and Bonnie · 03-08-2015, 07:46 PM

If you favor Nat'l Park and State campgrounds, I would go with a portable. We favor commercial RV Parks and still have run into areas where a portable is the best option. I have given some serious consideration to a roof mounted Carryout G2, but still felt I would need to carry a portable.

Fred

Selah · 03-08-2015, 08:28 PM

If you only have one dish then keep it portable. We have been in many many parks where the trees prevented our Traveler dish from obtaining a sat signal. We have also been in a few where even our X2 portable could not get a fix due to the trees.
All it takes is one tree to be in the way of your fixed dish and your done. It's a lot easier to move the portable dish than to move the coach.

vsheetz · 03-08-2015, 08:40 PM

I would suggest to keep it portable, for all that has been mentioned above.

I have a couple security cables that I use to secure our potable dish - a 15' most often used, and a 35' that can used alone or coupled to the 15' when needed to get further away.

John Hilley · 03-09-2015, 09:05 AM

A good solution is a ladder mount for the portable. I have a simple ladder mount that clamps to top vertical members of the ladder and has flat plate to mount the portable dome. If necessary it can be unbolted from mount and relocated. I use wing nuts on the bolts for ease of removal.

Still Bill · 03-09-2015, 08:22 PM

Thank you all for your thoughts.

It is great having such a knowledge pool to help with such decisions.

Now planning to start with the X1 being portable while still having the potential of adding the Trav'ler as a permanent rooftop installation.

FYI...My wife is an all around sports nut! She needs her TV...LOL

Bill

wa8yxm · 03-10-2015, 07:53 AM

This is what I recommend:

FIXED for use when you are NOT parked under the Evil Signal EatingTree

Portable for when you are

And an A(bove)/B(elow) switch in the LNB line near the receiver.

Billinwoodla · 03-12-2015, 02:05 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by vsheetz

I would suggest to keep it portable, for all that has been mentioned above.

I have a couple security cables that I use to secure our potable dish - a 15' most often used, and a 35' that can used alone or coupled to the 15' when needed to get further away.

Can you elaborate on the security cables? Is this something you made or bought? I would love to see a picture of your set up.
Thanks
Bill

Chuck13 · 03-12-2015, 02:28 PM

I bought portable, and glad I did because often even that won't get away from the signal eating trees. On the other hand when I have the money, I'll put a roof mount up for the times it may work. Could be a while before DW lets me get two satellite dishes.

Bago40 · 03-12-2015, 02:50 PM

I bought a portable and used it about a year then installed a Winegard Traveler on the roof. I carried the portable in the basement for a couple of years using it once and then sold it on Craig's List and haven't missed it yet.