Ive been told that an ordinary surge suppressor doesn provide adequate protection for a satellite system. Why not?
Even though a properly installed dish includes electrical grounding for both the dish itself and the coaxial cable running from the dish to the satellite receiver, your system can still be damaged by power surges and nearby lightning strikes. A power surge has 3 different routes to attack your satellite receiver: the AC wall outlet, the coaxial cable coming from the dish, and the phone connection. Many surge suppressors designed for audio/video systems include regular coaxial inputs/outputs (for your cable TV connection, etc.). They’re designed to work with standard RG-59 coaxial cable, not the RG-6 cable required for use in digital satellite systems. This type of suppressor strips out part of the satellite signal as it travels from the dish to the receiver. Be sure to use power protection specifically designed for use with digital satellite systems. Look for models that offer AC, RG-6 coaxial, and phone protection.
