Starlink requires a clear view of the sky in order to provide a stable internet connection. The company provides several mounting options for the Starlink dish antenna to ensure that it is properly aligned with the satellites in orbit.
The standard mounting option for Starlink is a tripod mount, which is a three-legged stand that can be placed on a flat surface such as a roof or a ground. The tripod mount is designed to be easy to set up and can be adjusted to point the dish antenna in the right direction.
Another option is the roof mount, which is a bracket that attaches the dish antenna to the roof of a building. The roof mount is designed to be more permanent and is intended for customers who want to leave the dish antenna in one place.
A Pole mount is another option, which is a bracket that attaches the dish antenna to a pole. This option is intended for customers who want to install the dish antenna on a pole, such as a flagpole or a light pole, to provide a clear view of the sky.
Additionally, Starlink is working on developing a new type of mount called the “Wall mount”, which will allow the dish antenna to be mounted on a wall, this option is intended for customers who have limited space and want to install the dish antenna on a wall or on the side of a building.
It’s important to note that all the above options are subject to change and availability, as the service is still in beta testing and the company is working on developing new technologies and ways to install the dish antenna.
Where are your obstructions?
Starlink dish antenna needs a clear view of the sky in order to provide a stable internet connection. Obstructions such as buildings, trees, and other tall structures can block the signal and reduce the quality of the internet connection.
When installing the Starlink dish antenna, it’s important to ensure that there are no obstructions that could block the signal. The company recommends that customers install the dish antenna in an area with a clear view of the sky, such as on a rooftop or on a pole in an open field.
If you have to place the dish antenna near obstructions, the company recommends installing it at a higher elevation to reduce the chance of the signal being blocked.
It’s also important to note that the dish antenna should be installed pointing towards the latitudinal position of the satellites in the sky, as the satellites are in low earth orbit, they move with the earth rotation, therefore pointing the dish antenna towards the equator will provide the best results.
In case you’re dealing with a more complex installation, such as installing the dish antenna in an urban area with many buildings and trees, you can contact Starlink’s customer support for assistance in finding the best location for your dish antenna.
It’s important to note that the company is continuously working on improving the technology and the service, which could reduce the impact of the obstructions over time.
How to check for obstructions
There are several ways to check for obstructions when installing a Starlink dish antenna:
- Use a compass: A compass can be used to determine the general direction of the Starlink satellites in the sky. The satellites are in low Earth orbit and move with the Earth’s rotation, therefore pointing the dish antenna towards the equator will provide the best results.
- Use a satellite finder app: There are several apps available for smartphones that can help you locate the position of the Starlink satellites in the sky. These apps can also help you point the dish antenna in the right direction.
- Check the view of the sky: Before installing the dish antenna, it’s important to check for any potential obstructions such as buildings, trees, and other tall structures that could block the signal. If possible, install the dish antenna on a rooftop or in an open field to ensure a clear view of the sky.
- Contact Starlink’s customer support: If you’re installing the dish antenna in an urban area with many buildings and trees, you can contact Starlink’s customer support for assistance in finding the best location for your dish antenna. The company can also provide you with more detailed information on the coverage in your area.
- Starlink’s Coverage Map: Starlink has its own coverage map that you can use to check the service availability and the quality of the signal in your area. You can access the map on the company’s website by entering your address and checking for any potential obstructions.
It’s important to note that even with the above steps, it’s not always possible to completely eliminate all obstructions, but the company is continuously working on improving the technology to reduce the impact of the obstructions over time.
Types of mounts that work with Starlink
Starlink provides customers with a variety of mounting options to accommodate different installation situations. These include:
- Ground Mount: The ground mount is a tripod that is designed to be installed on a level surface, such as a lawn or an open field. This is a good option for customers with a clear view of the sky who want to install the dish antenna at ground level.
- Roof Mount: The roof mount is designed to be installed on a rooftop or other flat surface. This option allows customers to install the dish antenna at a higher elevation, which can help to reduce the impact of obstructions.
- Pole Mount: The pole mount is designed to be installed on a pole or other vertical surface. This option is a good choice for customers who want to install the dish antenna at a higher elevation, but do not have a flat surface available.
- Wall Mount: The wall mount is designed to be installed on a wall or other vertical surface. This option is a good choice for customers who want to install the dish antenna at a lower elevation, but do not have a flat surface available.
- Tripod mount: The tripod mount is designed to be installed on a flat surface. This option is a good choice for customers who want to install the dish antenna at a lower elevation, but do not have a flat surface available.
It’s important to note that the company recommends customers to consult with their local authorities for any building or zoning restrictions before installing the dish antenna. And also, the company provides the mounting hardware and instructions for each mount option, but it’s recommended to consult with a professional for the installation process.
J-Mount
A J-Mount is a type of mount that is specifically designed to be used with satellite dishes. It is also known as a “J-pole” mount. The “J” shape of the mount allows the dish antenna to be installed at a higher elevation than other types of mounts, which can help to reduce the impact of obstructions.
J-Mounts are typically made of durable materials such as aluminum or steel, and are designed to be installed on a wall or other vertical surface. They can also be used on a pole or other vertical surface, providing a flexible mounting option.
It’s not confirmed that Starlink is using J-mounts but it’s possible as the company is continuously working on the technology and the equipment they use.
It’s important to note that the J-mount installation requires professional skills and tools, and customers should consult with a professional for installation process and also, should consult with their local authorities for any building or zoning restrictions before installing the dish antenna.
Might not be suitable for: Areas with a lot of obstructions. The typical height of a J-Mount is 2-4 feet, so if you need more height beyond the top of your roof, the J-Mount might not be the best option.
Flashing Mount
A flashing mount, also known as a roof flashing, is a type of mount used to secure a satellite dish to a roof. It is typically made of metal and is designed to be installed on a rooftop or other flat surface. The flashing mount is placed under the shingles of a roof and is used to create a water-tight seal between the dish and the roof.
Flashing mounts are an important aspect of installing a satellite dish on a rooftop, as they help to protect the dish from water damage. They also help to secure the dish and prevent it from being blown away in high winds.
It’s not confirmed that Starlink is using flashing mounts but it’s possible as the company is continuously working on the technology and the equipment they use.
It’s important to note that flashing mount installation requires professional skills and tools, and customers should consult with a professional for installation process and also, should consult with their local authorities for any building or zoning restrictions before installing the dish antenna.
Flashing Mount is good for: Roof installations. High rain/snow locations where roof leaks might be a concern. Clean, professional look.
Might not be suitable for: Roofs that aren’t covered with shingles. Installation is more complex. More expensive than other options.
Pole and Tower Mount
A pole and tower mount is a type of mount used to secure a satellite dish to a pole or tower. It is typically made of durable materials such as aluminum or steel, and is designed to be installed on a pole or tower. This type of mount allows the dish antenna to be installed at a higher elevation than other types of mounts, which can help to reduce the impact of obstructions.
Pole and tower mounts are a good option for customers who want to install the dish antenna at a higher elevation, but do not have a flat surface available. They can also be used in areas with high wind speeds, as the height of the pole or tower can help to reduce the wind load on the dish.
Starlink satellite dishes are typically installed on a pole or tower as a part of their service, as it allows the company to provide high-speed internet to customers in remote and hard-to-reach locations. The company provides the pole and tower along with the dish antenna and installation hardware and instructions.
It’s important to note that pole and tower mount installation requires professional skills and tools, and customers should consult with a professional for installation process and also, should consult with their local authorities for any building or zoning restrictions before installing the dish antenna.
Pole/Tower Mount is good for: Getting above or away from obstructions. When you can’t mount to your roof or structure.
Might not be suitable for: Adding a pole or tower on your property is a big undertaking and is more complex and expensive than other mounting options. This is a more custom installation solution that will require more hardware modification than other options.
Tripod Mount
A tripod mount is a type of mount used to secure a satellite dish to a tripod. It is typically made of durable materials such as aluminum or steel, and is designed to be installed on a tripod that can be set up on a flat surface. This type of mount is portable and easy to set up, making it ideal for customers who need to install the dish antenna in multiple locations.
Tripod mounts are a good option for customers who want to install the dish antenna in temporary locations or for customers who want to move the dish antenna from one location to another. They are also a good option for customers who want to install the dish antenna in locations where there is no permanent structure to mount the dish antenna to.
Starlink does not currently offer a tripod mount as part of its service package, instead, the company installs the dish antenna on a pole or tower, which is provided by the company. However, it’s possible to use a tripod mount with the starlink dish antenna, but customers will have to purchase the tripod mount separately and must consult with a professional for installation process and also, should consult with their local authorities for any building or zoning restrictions before installing the dish antenna.
Tripod Mount is good for: Temporary or permanent installations on flat surfaces
Might not be suitable for: Takes up a bit of space. Unless you anchor the Tripod Mount, there is a risk of it tipping over in windy conditions
Non-Penetrating Roof Mount
A non-penetrating roof mount is a type of mount used to secure a satellite dish to a flat roof without penetrating the roofing material. It is typically made of durable materials such as aluminum or steel, and is designed to be installed on a flat roof without drilling any holes. This type of mount allows the dish antenna to be installed on the roof without causing any damage to the roofing material and also, it is easy to remove and re-install.
Non-penetrating roof mounts are a good option for customers who want to install the dish antenna on a flat roof, but want to avoid penetrating the roofing material. They are also a good option for customers who want to install the dish antenna on a flat roof, but want to avoid drilling any holes in the roofing material.
It’s not confirmed that Starlink is using non-penetrating roof mounts but it’s possible as the company is continuously working on the technology and the equipment they use.
It’s important to note that non-penetrating roof mount installation requires professional skills and tools, and customers should consult with a professional for installation process and also, should consult with their local authorities for any building or zoning restrictions before installing the dish antenna.
Non-Penetrating Roof Mount is good for: Situations where you don’t want to fasten to the roof structure. You can easily move this mount around on the roof if you need flexibility in the future.
Might not be suitable for: This mount definitely stands out on your roof, as it will be held down with concrete blocks or other heavy items. Depending on how much weight you use, wind might be an issue since it is not fastened down.
Chimney Mount
A chimney mount is a type of mount used to secure a satellite dish to a chimney. It is typically made of durable materials such as aluminum or steel, and is designed to be installed on a chimney. This type of mount allows the dish antenna to be installed on the chimney without drilling any holes, and also it is an easy installation process.
Chimney mounts are a good option for customers who want to install the dish antenna on a chimney, but want to avoid drilling any holes in the chimney. They are also a good option for customers who want to install the dish antenna on a chimney, but want to avoid penetrating the chimney.
It’s not confirmed that Starlink is using chimney mounts but it’s possible as the company is continuously working on the technology and the equipment they use.
It’s important to note that Chimney mount installation requires professional skills and tools, and customers should consult with a professional for installation process and also, should consult with their local authorities for any building or zoning restrictions before installing the dish antenna. It’s also important to make sure that the chimney is structurally sound to support the weight of the dish antenna and the mount.
Chimney Mount is good for: When you need some extra height. When you don’t have shingles, or if you have a roof structure or material that doesn’t allow traditional installations.
Might not be suitable for: Not all chimney types are compatible with chimney mount kits. The installation can be a bit more involved than other options.
Other mounting options
There are other mounting options for Starlink satellite dish antenna that customers can consider depending on their specific needs and the location where they want to install the dish antenna. Some other options include:
- Wall mount: A wall mount is a type of mount used to secure a satellite dish to a wall. It is typically made of durable materials such as aluminum or steel, and is designed to be installed on a wall. This type of mount is ideal for customers who want to install the dish antenna on a wall, but want to avoid drilling any holes in the wall.
- Eave mount: An eave mount is a type of mount used to secure a satellite dish to the eave of a house or building. It is typically made of durable materials such as aluminum or steel, and is designed to be installed on the eave of a house or building. This type of mount is ideal for customers who want to install the dish antenna on the eave of a house or building, but want to avoid drilling any holes in the eave.
- Ground mount: A ground mount is a type of mount used to secure a satellite dish to the ground. It is typically made of durable materials such as aluminum or steel, and is designed to be installed on the ground. This type of mount is ideal for customers who want to install the dish antenna on the ground, but want to avoid drilling any holes in the ground.
It’s important to note that all the above mounting options require professional skills and tools, and customers should consult with a professional for installation process and also, should consult with their local authorities for any building or zoning restrictions before installing the dish antenna.