Let’s say you have an older RV, or you’re thinking of buying one. Satellite TV was a popular upgrade in the 2000s and 2010s, and it’s still a great way to get a lot of entertainment for a low price. You do your research and you find you have an old Winegard Trav’ler, model SK-3005. It looks like the image above.
Not knowing where to call, you call DIRECTV and they tell you that you need a SWM system to work with newer receivers. You’re not sure what that is, but you know you don’t have one. SWM technology is a system that has been in use at DIRECTV for over 10 years and it makes wiring simpler. There are a few more things you need to know. Luckily, that’s what the Solid Signal Blog is here for.
You may not need a new dish
DIRECTV’s reps will tell you that you absolutely, positively must have SWM technology. That’s what their scripts tell you. But, it’s not true. When you work with a top DIRECTV dealer like Solid Signal, we can get you an H24 receiver which will work with your older dish, no upgrades needed. The H24 is older tech, and supplies are dwindling. So, you don’t want to wait on this. It may not be your permanent solution, because you may want to upgrade at some point to get more features or speed. But, this will get you up and running quickly.
Upgrading the dish isn’t as easy as 1-2-3
It’s possible to upgrade the older dish so it has the same tech as the current Winegard Trav’ler series. This includes the ability to get HD and 4K programming and the use of SWM technology. However, it’s not as easy as simply swapping one part out for another. A lot of the electronics need to change as well.
When you work with a DIRECTV and Winegard dealer like Solid Signal, we’ll help you find someone in your area who can do the upgrade for you. If you’re handy or have this sort of experience, we can help you get the exact parts you need in order to upgrade.
There may be other considerations
Unfortunately, it’s not as easy as it once was to use DIRECTV in your RV. There are a few pitfalls to avoid. About 5 years ago, DIRECTV rolled out its Genie 2 system which doesn’t allow you to add receivers in your RV. However, a dealer like Solid Signal can help you get past that hurdle. We have account programs that can help and we may also be able to fit you with a Genie system that will allow you to have a receiver in your RV.
The important thing here is that you need to work with an expert. Solid Signal has over 20 years’ experience working with RV customers. We’ve helped more RVers with their satellite TV systems than anyone else in the world! There’s a reason DIRECTV called us their Dealer of the Year… we take care of our customers better than anyone else.
You’ll want to get an expert opinion by calling us. The number is 888-233-7563 and we’re here for you during East Coast business hours. If it’s after hours, just fill out the form below. We’ll get back to you, usually within one business day!
