Anywhere Internet!  

Watch this website as I develop my RV Satellite Internet system and post the progress here.

Totally Independent Internet

No DSL? No Cable? No problem... Get HughesNet Satellite High Speed Internet

I am writing and posting this article from my RV, with a high speed broadband satellite internet connection. No external power source, other than the sun, is being used. This is truly "go anywhere Internet"!

How is my RV Satellite Internet System powered?

A 110 watt solar panel is used to charge my battery bank of two 6 volt deep cycle RV batteries. An inverter is being used to draw power from my battery bank and to convert it to 120 VAC household power. This is used to supply 120 VAC power to run my satellite dish and high speed modem.

This power source can also be used to power up my desktop, printer, scanner or any other device. It makes my coffee in the morning on a timer ... coffee is ready when I get up.

Why do all this?

Since the sun is supplying the energy and charging my batteries during daylight hours, I can be at any remote location and still run my web sites, post and recieve e-mail, and communicate with the world. Miles away from any power line or phone line. If you run an on-line business, need to review your stock portfolio, or simply need to connect to the internet where ever you may be, then this system is for you.

What are the other benefits?

This same dish will receive satellite TV at the same time as high speed internet. (A satellite TV subscription is required.)

Where can you get this equipment? 

Buy Used at The Satellite Store

Is it hard to get set-up?

Well, it does take some persistance and a certain learning curve. With practice you could be online in roughly 15 minutes or so. My first set-up took several hours but my home is located in a heavily treed area. It took some time to find a sutable open spot to locate the tripod and dish for a clear view. There are devices available that simplify the process and one is included in the tripod package. 

Subsequent set-ups improved with experience.  My last set-up at my home base took about 10 minutes and has remained stable for over 3 months..

Is an automatic dish system available?

Yes, but it is pricey at about $5,000 to $6,000 installed. Since the dish is two way, the automatic dish must find the satellite and then fine tune itself to transmit a signal back up to the satellite. If cost is not a concern (lucky you!), then a press of a button gets the dish aligning itself and within a few minutes you are connected. Of course you must have a clear view of the southern sky for a liine of sight. With the tripod system you can camp in the shade and locate the tripod up to 40 or more feet away, if needed.