TAILGATER® TAKES TV OUTSIDE.
How it Works.
The Tailgater® Portable Satellite TV Antenna is like a TV valet – it brings you service when you need it. Connect the Tailgater® to a compatible DISH receiver and start watching TV wherever you are – in the parking lot of the big game, on a camping trip, or picnicking by a stream.
Setup.
The Tailgater® Portable HDTV System consists of a fully-automatic, portable satellite antenna and an HD receiver. It’s easy to set up and automatically finds the right satellite for your DISH signal. Portable and lightweight, it’s easy to carry from one outdoor activity to the next.
Note: The Tailgater® only works in the 48 contiguous United States.
Features.
- Portable, compact and lightweight (only 10 pounds!)
- Compact design with built-in ergonomic handle
- Comes with built-in security bracket
- Supports HD and SD programming
- Display resolutions: 480i, 480p, 720p, 1080i
- Built with a weather-resistant cover enclosure
- Automatically finds DISH satellites 110, 119, and 129
Tailgater® -
Model VQ2500
Specifications
- Dimensions:
- 17.5" H x 16" W x 16" D
- Weight: 10 lbs.
- Operating Temperature range:
0 degrees F to 140 degrees F - Receives power from DISH receiver
- Color: White
- Packaging Dimensions:
- 20 7/8" H x
18 3/16" W
x 18 3/16" D
Package Contents
- Tailgater® antenna
- 50 feet RG6 coax cable
- User's Guide
- Quick Reference Guide
HD Solo Receiver -
Model ViP® 211k
Specifications
- Dimensions:
- 1.9" H x 13.2" W x 10.7" D
- Weight: 5 lbs.
- Color: Black
- Packaging Dimensions:
- 16"H x 13.375"W x 4.5"D
- Receiver requires 120V AC power source
Package Contents
- ViP 211k HD receiver
- Infrared (IR) remote w/ batteries
- HDMI cable
- RCA composite audio/video cable
- RG-59 coax cable
- User's Guide
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS.
I only want to use my Tailgater® for a few months a year. Do I have to subscribe to TV programming all year?
No! With our pay-as-you-go plan, you pay only for the months you use. When the season is over, simply stop your service without penalty. When it's time to use your Tailgater® again, call 1-800-333-DISH (3474) or log into your account to reactivate your service. There is no charge to start and stop your monthly service.
I use an HD Solo Receiver at home. Will that work with my Tailgater®?
Yes, receiver models 411, ViP 211, and ViP 211k if activated on your home account can be used with the Tailgater®. When you order your Tailgater®, select the "Tailgater® Portable Antenna" option, priced at $350.
Note: Other HD Solo models will not work with the Tailgater®.
I use an HD Solo Receiver at home. Will that work with my Tailgater®?
Yes, receiver models 411, ViP 211, and ViP 211k if activated on your home account can be used with the Tailgater®. When you order your Tailgater®, select the "Tailgater® Portable Antenna" option, priced at $350.
Note: Other HD Solo models will not work with the Tailgater®.
I'm already a DISH customer at my home residence. Do I need a 2nd account for the Tailgater®?
Most DISH subscribers will not require a second account in order to use Tailgater®. However, a second account is required if you subscribe to Whole-Home HD DVR Service.
Note: Some channels, including international programming and RTN, might not be available. Local channels and Regional Sports Networks are sometimes not available, depending on your location. Call for advice. Bluefield, WV, Lake Charles, LA, Columbia, MS, Springfield, MA, and Providence, RI markets will not be able to receive SD or HD channels with a Tailgater®.
How do you power the Tailgater®? Can I run my Tailgater® antenna, DISH receiver, and TV from my vehicle?
The Tailgater® receives its power through the coax connection with the DISH receiver. The receiver will need to be plugged into an AC power outlet. You can use an AC/DC inverter to power your receiver, Tailgater® antenna, and television off of your vehicle's DC power supply (12V power outlet). If your television is rated at more than 100 Watts, you may need to connect your inverter directly to your vehicle's battery since most vehicular 12V connections are only rated to 150 Watts. If you plan to watch TV for more than a few hours, be sure to start and run your vehicle for a few minutes It's required in order to keep your vehicle's battery healthy. Please note that most vehicles, when turned on, temporarily shut off power to all connections, meaning that you may have to setup your Tailgater® antenna again in order to resume viewing satellite TV. If convenient, a portable power generator, portable power pack, or alternative accessory battery may be better options for operating your system and can help preserve your vehicle's battery life.
Will my Tailgater® work during inclement weather?
Though rare, heavy rain, snow, or dense cloud cover can reduce the satellite signal, which may interrupt your television programming. Your television programming should return as conditions improve.
Can I use a DVR receiver with the Tailgater®?
At this time the Tailgater® is only compatible with the HD Solo receiver family, including 411, ViP 211, and ViP 211k models. You can add DVR functionality and the ability to record and pause live TV by attaching your own USB external hard drive to the USB port at the back of the receiver and adding DVR functionality for a one-time service fee of $40. The external hard drive must have its own power supply cable and must be rated between 50 GB minimum and 1 TB maximum. For more information or to see if your receiver is applicable, click here.
How do I prevent theft of my Tailgater®?
To prevent theft, your Tailgater® has a security bracket located at the bottom of the carry handle. Secure your Tailgater® to a fixed object using a padlock and security cable (not included).
Do I need special programming to use my Tailgater®?
No, the Tailgater® antenna allows viewing of any English or DishLATINO programming package. Some channels, including international programming and RTN, may not be available. Local channels and Regional Sports Network(s) are subject to availability based on your geographical location. Bluefield (WV), Lake Charles (LA), Columbia (MS), Springfield (MA), and Providence (RI) markets will not be able to receive SD or HD local channels through a Tailgater® solution.
How do I view my DISH Network programming with the Tailgater®?
If you do not already subscribe to DISH service, the first step is to purchase a compatible HD Solo receiver. The second step is to call DISH and subscribe to an English programming package.
If you already subscribe to DISH and have an activated HD Solo receiver, you will be able to view the same channels with your Tailgater® that you view at home. Exceptions may include local channels and Regional Sports Network(s) if you are outside of your home's designated market viewing area.