Satellite receivers receive signals from satellite dishes or antennas and decode them to play multiple channels of satellite programming on computers, televisions, and entertainment systems. Some receivers have twin tuners so that a viewer can watch one program while recording another. Companies that sell subscription services usually install satellite dishes and receivers, but consumers can get free-to-air satellite television by installing an FTA receiver and enjoy free programming that matches or surpasses the number of choices offered by basic cable services.

How Satellite Receivers Work

Installing a receiver involves wiring a home to connect with the low-noise block downcoverter that amplifies microwave signals from the satellite dish and converts them to a lower block of frequencies that receivers can interpret. Get LNB information to choose the right downconverter for different types of receivers. The receiver gets the signal and converts it to multiple channels of programming. Receivers decode programs, enable recording, and can convert digital signals to analog format for older televisions. Get further information about receivers by reading eBay's satellite receiver buying guide. Optional features of satellite receivers include:

- Parental controls

- Built-in digital recorders

- Noise reduction filters to strengthen weak signals

- Ability to customize searches and favorites lists

- Remote control locator

Installing and Tuning Satellite Receivers

Installing the receiver requires connecting a coaxial cable for digital format or using audio and video inputs for analog conversions. Consumers need to wire the cable from the antenna or dish to the area of the home where the receiver will be installed. Picking the right coaxial cable adapters is important for delivering high-quality images, so choose RG-59, RG-6, or RG-11 cable for LNB connections. Use the manufacturer's recommended cable hook-ups for separate LNAs and block downconverters that are required for some satellite dishes and receivers.

1. Connectors for wiring cable need weatherproofing and crimping.

2. Use conduit to route cable below ground.

3. Use the correct type of splitter for the cable and not typical hardware store brands that are designed for televisions instead of high-frequency satellite signals. Fine-tuning signals requires adjusting the satellite dish and using the optimal LNB connection to boost signal strength.

4. Make sure that no tall structures block sight lines from the satellite and LNB to the receiver.

5. Connect the leads from the wall plate to the LNB input socket on the receiver.

6. Connect cable from the receiver to the television, digital recording device, or home theater tuner.

7. Once all connections to devices are made, plug receivers and peripheral devices into electrical outlets.

8. Scan for programming based on the chosen satellite's location in the sky.

9. If necessary, have someone check channel reception while adjusting the satellite dish.

10. Set date, time, parental restrictions, and passwords.

After installing receivers, check to see if the brand provides on-screen programming and tuning guides to simplify getting channels of programming with the highest quality. If necessary, tune the receiver manually by adjusting the antenna or satellite dish for best reception.

Connecting Satellite Receivers to Multiple Devices

Follow manufacturer instructions for connecting electronic devices to satellite receivers with cable connectors. Use the right speaker cable connectors and audio cable connectors for home entertainment systems. Home theater systems have audio-video receivers that serve as central hubs for entertainment systems, so connect the satellite receiver to the appropriate input on the AV receiver and run cable from the receiver to the television. Use extra cables to connect recording systems to record a program while viewing a different channel. Use S-video, audio and video jacks, coaxial cable, or HDMI cable between devices. Wireless transmitters eliminate extra receivers, cables, wires, and programming boxes by transmitting receiver signals directly to televisions in any room of the house.

Installing Two Receivers for One Satellite Dish

Install two receivers by using multiple feeds to the LNB or using loop-throughs to connect two satellite receivers. However, only one receiver can control the LNB at any given time, so viewers must switch off one receiver and tune in the other to receive different subscriptions services or additional channel choices from another receiver.

People can connect multiple televisions and devices to receivers by using switch boxes, loop-throughs, or multiple feeds, but viewers can only watch the same channel on each set unless the receiver has multiple tuners and connections. Twin tuners require double connections to enable viewing different programs in several rooms.

Finding Satellite Receivers on eBay

Consumers can find satellite receivers easily on eBay by searching for preferred manufacturers, desired price range, custom options, and features like twin-tuning capability. People can save their custom searches so that they don't have to retype the information every time they search. Find new and used satellite receivers, satellite dishes, coaxial cables, home entertainment systems, and electronic accessories to complement satellite entertainment options.