For years, I’ve told DIRECTV enthusiasts to use a specific splitter if they are splitting signal before the multiswitch. It’s not a particularly complex part, but it does allow for all ports to pass power and it is rated for all non-SWM satellite frequencies. The part was offered by Skywalker, who have made A/V accessories for years.
Friends, I don’t need to tell you about supply chain problems. Sometimes you just can’t get what you’re looking for, and that can be a problem. It’s something we’ve all dealt with a lot the last several years. So, I’ve been asked to suggest a potential replacement for this splitter for when the part is not available.
Where this part is used
This part is used in smaller commercial installations for satellite TV customers. It’s also used in larger DIY home installs. The largest installs will use other splitters or expanders, but these splitters have always been a popular choice because they are inexpensive and they just work.
The key to this splitter’s popularity is its simplicity and durability. I’ve literally never heard of one failing in the field. That’s a pretty good record. It also means that the search for a replacement is incredibly important.
Introducing the Blonder Tongue LPD-2P
Blonder Tongue is a well-respected name in commercial audio and video equipment. We’ve chosen this splitter as a replacement for the Skywalker model for several reasons. The first is that it has almost an identical form factor. The chassis could be the same and I’m not ruling out the idea that it is being sourced from the same manufacturer. Its specs are almost identical. While the Skywalker splitter claims to go down to 5MHz and this one says it goes down to 10MHz, that’s not an issue. Chances are the specs are very close to the same and you simply don’t need that low frequency range with satellite anyway. It has a slightly lower upper range, but again that’s not a big deal since satellite wouldn’t use it.
Blonder Tongue equipment has a reputation for durability, and the company’s one I feel I can really stand behind. That means I can feel confident recommending it to you.
Choosing a different replacement
If you would prefer to choose a different splitter, the honest truth is that most of them will work. You need a splitter rated for the range between 1,000 and 2,150 megahertz. That’s going to take some of the cheaper antenna splitters out of consideration. You need it to pass power on all ports. Power-passing splitters are easier to make than non-power-passing ones. It takes an extra part to stop power from being passed.
You’ll find equivalent splitters from Perfect Vision, CableTronix, Holland, and other manufacturers at our web site. You’ll probably find others at other sites. My guess is that they’ll all work well.
I’ve chosen the Blonder Tongue myself because I believe in the company. As I said there are other splitters with the right specs that should work for you.
Get all the parts you need
SolidSignal.com has a team of agents who work hard every day to keep critical items in stock. They do a fabulous job, too. However, sometimes it’s just hard to keep things in stock. There’s nothing they can do.
If you’re looking for the absolute latest information on a part, call us! Often times we can even make a few phone calls. Sometimes we can get the last bit of stock on discontinued parts. We’re here to help! Call us during East Coast business hours. Our techs will listen to your needs. Then, they’ll go above and beyond to get you what you need. Try us out… even the call is free. If it’s after hours, fill out the form below. We’ll get back to you. We generally respond within one business day.
