How to Split a DIRECTV Receiver to Two Receivers

Splitting a DIRECTV receiver signal to multiple receivers allows you to enjoy satellite television on multiple televisions simultaneously. There are a few methods you can use to split the signal, depending on your setup and requirements. In this article, we will explore two common methods: using optional receiver outputs and using a coaxial splitter.

Method One – Using Optional Receiver Outputs

Most modern DIRECTV receivers come equipped with multiple outputs, providing flexibility in splitting the signal. Here are the available outputs you can use:

• HDMI: Used for connecting to HD televisions with HDMI cable interface.
• Coaxial Cable (Output to TV): Can be screw-on or push-on type.
• AV Cable: Consists of a 3-wire configuration (Red, White, Yellow).
• Component Cable Output: Uses a 5-wire configuration (Red “Video,” Blue, Green, Red “Audio,” White).
• SVideo: Used with SVideo-capable devices.

To split the signal using optional receiver outputs, you can follow these steps:

1. Identify the televisions and their distances from the receiver.
2. Connect the HDMI cable from the receiver to the closest television, as HDMI cables typically come in shorter lengths.
3. For the next closest television, use a component cable or AV cable connection.
4. For televisions further away, use a coaxial cable connection.
5. Ensure that the cable lengths are adequate for splitting the signal in this manner.

It’s important to note that the quality of the signal may vary depending on the output used. Additionally, using the Red and White audio outputs for multiple televisions may require an additional splitter for sound output. HDMI and coaxial outputs carry their own sound, while others may compete with the Red and White outputs unless the receiver has dedicated outputs for additional stereo speakers.

Method Two – Using a Coaxial Splitter

Another way to split the DIRECTV signal is by using a coaxial splitter. This method allows you to split the signal without the need for an additional receiver. There are two ways to use a coaxial splitter:

1. Splitter close to the receiver:
   • Connect a short coaxial cable from the receiver to the television closest to the first split line.
   • The second split line must run the necessary length to reach the next television, which may be several yards away.
   • It’s important to note that the television closest to the receiver will likely control the channels on both televisions.
2. Receiver at a mid-point:
   • Place the receiver at a location where both televisions are approximately equal distances away.
   • The cable splitting the line goes out of the receiver to the mid-point, where the split is most effective.
   • The two split lines are then passed through the necessary length to reach both televisions.
   • Changing channels on the receiver may require someone being close to the receiver to change it manually or via remote.

Using a coaxial splitter allows you to display the same channel on both televisions. However, the television furthest from the receiver may experience a weaker signal, resulting in fuzzy or snowy artifacts.

Getting Separate Channels

If you want to have separate channels on different televisions, you will need a receiver for each television and a Multi-Switch designed for satellite equipment. Follow these steps:

1. Obtain a receiver for each television you want to extend the service to.
2. Acquire a Multi-Switch that is compatible with your satellite equipment. It’s recommended to use a DirecTV-approved option to ensure compatibility.
3. Ensure that the Multi-Switch has enough satellite inputs and outputs to connect to each receiver and television.
4. Run a coaxial cable from the Multi-Switch to each receiver and television, making sure the cable length is sufficient.
5. Additional access cards may be required, which can be obtained from DIRECTV. It’s important to note that using unauthorized or modified cards/receivers to decrypt satellite signals is illegal.

By following these steps, you can split a DIRECTV receiver signal to multiple receivers and enjoy separate channels on each television.

Sources:

• “How to Split a Direct TV Satellite Signal” – Tech-FAQ (https://www.tech-faq.com/how-to-split-a-direct-tv-satellite-signal.html)
• “Using a splitter to add TV” – DIRECTV Community Forums (https://forums.directv.com/conversations/directv-equipment/using-a-splitter-to-add-tv/6286d276f656d85d071a8e3c)
• “How Can I Split a Direct TV Signal for Two Receivers?” – Techwalla (https://www.techwalla.com/articles/how-can-i-split-a-direct-tv-signal-for-two-receivers)

FAQs

Can I split a DIRECTV receiver signal to two receivers without purchasing another receiver?

Yes, you can split a DIRECTV receiver signal to two receivers without purchasing an additional receiver. One method is to use optional receiver outputs, such as HDMI, coaxial cable, AV cable, component cable, or SVideo. Another method is to use a coaxial splitter. These methods allow you to share the signal between two televisions.

How do I split the DIRECTV signal using optional receiver outputs?

To split the DIRECTV signal using optional receiver outputs, you can follow these steps:

1. Identify the televisions and their distances from the receiver.
2. Connect the HDMI cable from the receiver to the closest television.
3. Use component or AV cables for the next closest television.
4. Use a coaxial cable for televisions further away.

Ensure that the cable lengths are adequate for splitting the signal this way.

Can I use a coaxial splitter to split the DIRECTV signal?

Yes, a coaxial splitter can be used to split the DIRECTV signal. There are two ways to use a coaxial splitter:

• Splitter close to the receiver: Connect a short coaxial cable from the receiver to the closest television, and run the second split line to reach the next television.
• Receiver at a mid-point: Place the receiver at a location where both televisions are an equal distance away. The split line goes out of the receiver to the mid-point, and then the two split lines reach both televisions.

Keep in mind that the television closest to the receiver will likely control the channels on both televisions.

Can I get separate channels on different televisions when splitting a DIRECTV signal?

To get separate channels on different televisions, you will need a receiver for each television and a Multi-Switch designed for satellite equipment. The Multi-Switch should have enough outputs to connect to each receiver and television. Additional access cards may be required, which can be obtained from DIRECTV. This setup allows you to enjoy different channels on each television.

Are there any quality differences when using optional receiver outputs to split the signal?

Yes, there may be quality differences when using optional receiver outputs to split the signal. The quality of the signal may vary depending on the output used. HDMI and coaxial outputs generally provide better signal quality compared to other outputs like AV cables or component cables. It’s important to consider the specific requirements and limitations of your setup when choosing the outputs to split the signal.

Is it possible to split the DIRECTV signal to more than two receivers?

Yes, it is possible to split the DIRECTV signal to more than two receivers. You can use a combination of methods, such as using optional receiver outputs and coaxial splitters, to distribute the signal to multiple receivers and televisions. However, it’s important to ensure that the signal strength and quality are sufficient to maintain a satisfactory viewing experience on all connected devices.