Winegard Portable Satellite Antenna - RV Antenna System
RV Satellite Antenna Overview
It was once thought that people go camping to get away from the TV, but in today's world TV's are one of those RV accessories that are found in most rigs even including toy haulers and tent trailers and are used frequently when camping, even out in the boonies.
With the advent of satellite TV, campers are now able to enjoy TV most anywhere. The industry leader in satellite antennas is Winegard, and one of their most popular products for portable use is the Winegard Portable Satellite Antenna (model RD-9046).
The Problem
If you want to watch TV when camping, what do you do? Or, if you have an RV with an expensive permanently roof mounted satellite antenna and you are parked under trees where reception is not available, how do you get reception without moving your rig?
The Solution
Pack up your television entertainment and go! The Winegard Portable Satellite Antenna system (model RD-9046) is lightweight, easy to set up and ready to go when you are. It features an 18 inch (46 cm) galvanized dish antenna which is powder coated and a molded poly base which is completely and permanently assembled. The base has a built-in level and compass, convenient handle on the side for carrying and 25 feet of cable stored in the base, however the satellite receiver not included.
Additionally, there is a 2 year manufacturer's limited warranty. For ease of use, I would also recommend that you purchase a satellite finder (reviewed separately) so that the set-up is now a one-man operation. Additionally, you can purchase a convenient carry bag to make stowage of the satellite system much easier. The system works with both Direct TV and Dish Network, however it is not recommended with the Dish 500 system.
Installation and Operation
Find a level spot for your dish and connect the cable to your receiver. Most RV's have an external coax connector or one can be easily installed by the dealer. Enter the local zip code where you are currently camped in the setup menu on your TV. Move the base to face the right direction, grab the top of the antenna and pull upward. There are elevation positioning marks on the base, however I found that it was much easier to use a satellite finder meter or digital satellite finder ( reviewed and purchased separately) and about 40 feet of extra coax cable to be able to move the dish away from most trees that might surround a campsite, and an additional couple of feet of coax for the satellite finder. The setup takes just a few moments.
After positioning the antenna, attach the cable to the external coax connector which is attached to the receiver inside the rig and enjoy TV! the complete system is compact for easy storage in trunk or RV storage bay and I would recommend purchasing the convenient carrying case to protect it and make storage and retrieval from the storage bay much easier. The entire system weighs less than 11 lbs. The dimensions are 28 inches long by 19-1/2 inches wide by 7-1/2 inches high when folded and is extended to 29 inches high when raised. Satellite receiver and monthly program packages sold separately. This portable system is perfect for all types of RVing including even toy haulers and tent trailers - anywhere you want "TV to go."
After positioning and connecting the Winegard Portable Satellite Antenna to the RV and locating the satellite signal, you must call the satellite provider and subscribe to your desired programming. I called DirectTV to activate the receiver. The use of the satellite finder really helps eliminate the frustration of finding a satellite and compass settings as shown on set-up screen. System can be up and running in less than 5 minutes. In addition, DirectTV mirrored my programming I use at home, so I was only charged for additional receiver although I am not able to get local channels when out of home area, but will use RV antenna with switch. Can't believe it was so easy and a great reception and signal strength.
Comparison shop and save!
Purchase Winegard Portable Satellite Antenna online from Amazon.com:
Winegard Portable Satellite Antenna RD-9046
Purchase Winegard Portable Satellite Antenna online from Camping World:
Winegard Portable Satellite Antenna RD-9046
Carry Case for Remote/Portable Satellite Antenna
Analog Satellite Finder Signal Meter
Winegard Digital Satellite Finder Compass
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