Starvmount DishyNOAC Usage Guide
- Introducing DishyNOAC
- Wi-Fi Access Point Requirement
- Mounting Considerations
- Power Requirements
- Cable
- Fuse
- Grounding
- Power Switch
- Snow Melt
- Troubleshooting
- Caution
- Warranty
DishyNOAC
The DishyNOAC is compatible with both the Starlink Standard (V3 / GEN3 or REV4) and Starlink Standard Actuated (V2 / GEN2 or REV3) models. However, the Starlink Standard Actuated model requires a cable modification to convert the proprietary connector on the router end to an Ethernet RJ45 T-568B connector.
The DishyNOAC eliminates the need for the Starlink Router, which normally powers the Starlink Dish and requires 100–230V AC power. Instead, the DishyNOAC provides native DC power directly to the Starlink Dish, eliminating the need for an inverter in RVs, vans, boats, or off-grid setups. This results in potential cost savings on equipment and or improved power efficiency by avoiding "inverter losses" - additional power consumed in the conversion of DC to AC power.
The DishyNOAC accepts a wide range of DC input voltages (9-36V), making it suitable for both 12V and 24V DC installations.
Wi-Fi Access Point Requirement
Since the DishyNOAC replaces the Starlink Router, you will need a separate Wi-Fi Access Point. This gives you the flexibility to choose a Wi-Fi Access Point that best suits your needs. For vehicles or boats, consider a model with 4G/5G connectivity for mobile internet when Starlink is not connected via a "fail over" configuration.
To ensure the Starlink service speed is not limited the Wi-Fi Access Point must supports Wi-Fi 5 (802.11 a/b/g/n, 300Mbps 2.4GHz and/or 802.11 ac, 867Mbps 5GHz) and have a 1 Gbps Ethernet port. Recommended devices include:
- Teltonika RUTX14: Wi-Fi 5, 4G, Ethernet 10/100/1000 Mbps, input power 9-50V DC
- Teltonika RUTX50: Wi-Fi 5, 5G, Ethernet 10/100/1000 Mbps, input power 9-50V DC
- GL-iNet Opal GL-SFT1200: Wi-Fi 5, Ethernet 10/100 Mbps, powered via USB-C
- TP-Link Deco M5: Wi-Fi 5, Ethernet 10/100/1000 Mbps, input power 12V DC (voltage regulator required)
Note that Teltonika supports a wide input power voltage, meaning that for most systems, no additional adapter, such as a USB-C or voltage regulator, is required to power the device, this allows for a simplified install and reduces points of failure.
Mounting Considerations
- Vibration: Mount the DishyNOAC in a location with minimal vibration. It comes with vibration-dampening feet and two fixing holes for secure installation, typically providing sufficient protection.
- Heat/Ventilation: The DishyNOAC generates heat while delivering 150W of power. Ensure adequate ventilation by allowing space around the unit for air circulation. The included feet support airflow to the vented heat sink at the base. The DishyNOAC should not be mounted of a heat sensitive substrate.
- Noise: The DishyNOAC emits a faint data modulation noise, similar to the Starlink Dish. While very quiet, consider this when choosing its location.
- Moisture: The DishyNOAC is not moisture-proof and must be kept dry.
Power Requirements
The DishyNOAC accepts a DC input voltage range of 9-36V, making it suitable for 12V and 24V systems. To power Starlink, your power source must be of sufficient capacity and quality. It is recommended to use a lithium leisure battery with a capacity of 200Ah or more. The purpose of using the DishyNOAC is to maximize efficiency by eliminating inverter losses. It assumes your system is capable of powering an inverter, which would also make it suitable for powering Starlink over extended periods.
While the DishyNOAC does not reduce Starlink’s power demands, it improves efficiency by eliminating the need for DC-to-AC and back-to-DC power conversion. Therefore, the DishyNOAC is not a solution to enable Starlink to operate on smaller DC power systems. The input voltage must not exceed 36V, so the DishyNOAC is not suitable for use on 48V systems.
Cable
Ensure that the power supply cable can deliver 150W at the desired voltage for your system. The cable is typically rated in amps, so you’ll need to calculate the required amperage by dividing 150W by your system voltage. Round up this value to account for variations, such as the battery’s state of charge. For example, if your system voltage is 12V, the required current is calculated as:
150W ÷ 12V = 12.5A
When selecting the cable size, also consider the cable length, as longer cables can cause a “voltage drop,” which affects performance. Adjust your calculations accordingly, based on the system’s voltage, power requirements, and cable length. Free apps like “Victron Toolkit” are available to help calculate voltage drop and ensure your cable selection is appropriate.
Fuse
Always use a fuse to protect your cable run and device. The fuse must be installed at the beginning of the cable providing power to the DishyNOAC. It is primarily there to protect the power cable and should be sized accordingly. Always use a fuse rated for your system’s voltage. The DishyNOAC is designed to deliver up to 150W, and when used on a 12V system, the cable should be sized to handle a load of approximately 12.5A. Rounding up, the next suitable fuse size would be 15A.
Grounding
The DishyNOAC has a third ground connector alongside the positive and negative ones. For effective grounding and shielding, it should be connected to a stable reference point, such as the earth in stationary setups or the vehicle chassis in mobile installations.
Power Switch
Starlink consumes power continuously, even when the internet is not in use. It is advisable to install a switch to turn off the Starlink system when not needed, such as at night, while driving, or when away. For simple setups, install the switch near the DishyNOAC. For more convenient switch locations, a relay can be used to control the power to the DishyNOAC without extending the power cable.
Snow Melt
It is recommended to disable the Snow Melt feature when using the DishyNOAC. Starlink automatically activates Snow Melt when temperatures suggest snow, but this is not always an accurate indicator of snow on the dish. Snow Melt significantly increases power consumption, which can be problematic in off-grid settings. To conserve power, disable Snow Melt and clear snow manually when necessary.
Despite the power consumption, DishyNOAC is well-equipped to be used with Snow Melt enabled. Each unit is tested with real internet usage for a minimum of one hour with Snow Melt enabled before delivery.
Troubleshooting
Connection Drops: Initially, simply restart the DishyNOAC, turn off power supply for 15 seconds. Like the internet in general, Starlink is not without faults, and a simple restart can often resolve the issue. If you are experiencing repeated dropouts, please check your battery voltage and state of charge. Starlink has high power demands, so the power source must be sufficiently charged; otherwise, the connection will be unreliable. Please refer to the Power Requirements.
DishyNOAC Noise: The data modulation sound is a helpful indicator that your device is functioning properly, and it is perfectly normal. Power conversion and data modulation are inherently noisy, which can be noticed when standing close to the Starlink dish. It is recommended to install the DishyNOAC in a location that provides some distance and insulation from the device, such as a cupboard, the van ‘garage,’ or the hold of your boat.
Apple iPhone/iOS No Connection After Starlink Restart: If, following a service restart, your Apple iPhone/iOS device appears connected to Wi-Fi but fails to connect to the internet, go to: Settings > Wi-Fi and turn Wi-Fi off, then back on again.
CAUTION
When fitting, undertake your own risk assessment regarding placement and attachment. Always be considerate of others and your own safety.
Starvmount products are provided as-is, and no warranty is provided as to suitability for current or future versions of Starlink™ products. Starvmount products are intended for installation by telecommunications professionals or other similarly technically experienced users. As such, Starvmount will not be held liable for any damage resulting from the usage of Starvmount products