DIRECTV SWM Installation Manual

The DIRECTV SWM (Single Wire Multiswitch) system provides advanced satellite signal distribution for multiple receivers using a single coaxial cable. This manual covers installation, configuration, and troubleshooting for SWM technology, enabling efficient multi-room satellite TV distribution with support for up to 8 tuners, HD programming, and whole-home DVR functionality. Below are key sections for system overview, components, installation procedures, configuration, and troubleshooting.

1. System Overview 2. Components and Specifications 3. Installation Requirements 4. SWM Setup Procedure 5. Receiver Configuration 6. Signal Testing 7. Multi-Room Setup 8. Troubleshooting Guide 9. Technical Specifications 10. Regulatory Information

System Overview

DIRECTV SWM technology allows multiple receivers to share a single satellite dish and coaxial cable run, reducing installation complexity and cable requirements while maintaining signal quality for HD and SD programming.

Component	Function
SWM LNB	Single wire multiswitch integrated low-noise block
SWM Power Inserter	Provides power to SWM system and receivers
Splitter	Distributes signal to multiple receivers
Receiver	DIRECTV HD/DVR receivers compatible with SWM
Coaxial Cable	RG-6 quad-shield recommended
Grounding Block	Required for electrical safety
Signal Meter	For signal strength verification

Components and Specifications

SWM LNB: Supports 99° and 103° satellites, 8 tuner capacity
Power Inserter: 29V output, connects between splitter and receiver
Splitters: 2-way, 4-way, 8-way configurations available
Cable Requirements: RG-6 quad-shield, 3GHz rated
Frequency Range: 2-2150 MHz
Power Consumption: 20-29V DC, 200mA typical
Operating Temperature: -40°F to 140°F (-40°C to 60°C)

Installation Requirements

Proper installation requires specific tools and components for optimal performance.

Tools Needed: Coaxial cable stripper, compression tool, wrench set, signal meter, multimeter
Materials: RG-6 cable, connectors, weather boots, mounting hardware
Location: Clear line of sight to southern sky, secure mounting surface
Safety: Proper grounding, secure ladder usage, weather considerations

WARNING! Always disconnect power before installation. Ensure proper grounding to prevent electrical hazards.

SWM Setup Procedure

Follow these steps for proper SWM system installation.

Mount satellite dish with clear southern sky view
Connect SWM LNB to dish arm, ensure secure connection
Run RG-6 cable from SWM LNB to power inserter location
Install power inserter near primary receiver or splitter
Connect power inserter to electrical outlet
Run cables from splitter to all receiver locations
Ground system according to local electrical codes
Perform signal strength test and dish alignment

CAUTION! Never connect power inserter directly to SWM LNB. Always use through splitter or receiver.

Receiver Configuration

Configure receivers to work with SWM system.

Connect receiver to cable from splitter
Power on receiver and wait for boot sequence
Access menu: Menu > Settings > Satellite > Repeat Satellite Setup
Select "SWM" when prompted for multiswitch type
Run system test to verify SWM detection
Repeat for all receivers in system

Note: Some older receivers may require software update for SWM compatibility.

Signal Testing

Verify signal strength and quality for optimal performance.

Satellite	Transponder	Minimum Signal	Optimal Signal
101°	1-32	85	90+
99°	1-32	80	85+
103°	1-32	80	85+
110°	1-32	75	80+
119°	1-32	75	80+

Access signal meter: Menu > Settings > Satellite > View Signal Strength

Multi-Room Setup

Configure whole-home DVR and multi-room viewing.

Ensure all receivers are SWM-compatible models
Connect DECA adapter for internet connectivity if required
Configure whole-home settings in primary receiver menu
Enable media sharing between receivers
Test remote playback from secondary locations

Tip: Use SWM-8 or SWM-16 for systems with more than 8 tuners.

Troubleshooting Guide

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No signal	Power inserter failure	Check power inserter LED; replace if no light
Weak signal	Dish alignment	Re-align dish; check for obstructions
Some receivers offline	Splitter issue	Check splitter connections; replace faulty splitter
SWM not detected	Receiver configuration	Verify SWM setting in satellite setup menu
Pixelation/freezing	Cable damage	Inspect cables for damage; replace if necessary
No HD channels	Satellite alignment	Fine-tune 99° and 103° satellite alignment

Technical Specifications

Input Frequency: 2-2150 MHz
Output Impedance: 75 ohms
Power Supply: 29V DC via power inserter
Max Cable Length: 200 feet (61 meters) recommended
Insertion Loss: 3.5 dB typical
Return Loss: 16 dB minimum
Isolation: 22 dB minimum between ports
Operating Voltage: 20-29V DC

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15 Class B: This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the condition that this device does not cause harmful interference. Copyright © DIRECTV. DIRECTV and the Cyclone Design logo are registered trademarks of DIRECTV, LLC. For technical support, visit directv.com/help or call 1-800-531-5000.