said by AdamKane:I have heard that the Federal Communications Commission requires two-way satellite internet dishes to be installed professionally.
Back in 2002 I believed that as well, and it is possible to dig up some quotes from me on the internet along those lines. By 2003 I knew that was untrue and soon after started writing software that helped Hughes users move their dishes on tripod mounts.
I was even told this by Wildblue when I was considering getting their service.
That would be unusual for them to say. What is true is that both Hughes and Wildblue have a policy of requiring professional installers, and the way that is stated may IMPLY that it is the law. With Hughes Ku-Band dishes it is quite easy to do your own install, and if you can accomplish it without them knowing you will have not violated any law. For Wildblue or Hughes Ka-Band there are significant difficulties in the service activation process (not just the physical issues, which are substantial) that make it pretty much impossible to accomplish without the assitance of an installer, even if he is not on-site.