The Starlink dish kit comes with a default Starlink Tripod mount you can mount on the ground. However, it won’t get you the best reception if your location has limited sky view clarity. Let’s fix that.
The Starlink tripod mount is a stable accessory that gets you started when setting up Starlink.
It’ll stabilize your dish on a rooftop, on the ground, or on an RV’s roof. It’s easy to install right off the kit with a few tools.
However, they are not the best fit in woody areas, heavily-steeped roofs or windy locations.
We’ll show you alternatives and how to install a tripod mount for Starlink.
Table of Contents
- Does Starlink Have A Tripod Mount?
- Starlink Tripod Mount Alternatives
- Installing a Starlink Tripod Mount
- Starlink Tripod Mount Roof Install
- Routing the Starlink Cable
- Reconnect The Starlink Dish
- Conclusion: Is the Starlink Tripod Mount Worth It?
Does Starlink Have A Tripod Mount?
Starlink’s website has a collection of Starlink-compatible mounts that work perfectly with 1st and 2nd Generation Starlink dishes.
However, the site doesn’t have a Tripod mount that could elevate the dish enough if you place it on low ground.
Still, the default mount does have a tripod shape. It is a good starter since it has all the vital parts to search for a clear path. It is easily movable and comes with additional hardware to install on a rooftop or RV.
You need to get a better tripod mount for long-term use. The ideal tripod mount for Starlink dimensions is as follows.
- A pole diameter of 2.5 inches (6.35cm)
- Total tripod height of 3 ft (0.9m)
Starlink Tripod Mount Alternatives
Most tripod mounts hold antennas and satellites like the Starlink dish.
They reach between 1 and 3 meters high with a constant 2.5-inch diameter for the adapter.
Starlink stocks specific adapters for the dish, though. You won’t have to get a third-party adapter during the installation.
Here are reliable tripod mount alternatives that pair well with Starlink.
Skywalker Heavy-Duty Tripod Base
Satellite tripod with a cable
Since the default Starlink tripod mount base is a temporary solution, the Skywalker tripod base has features that make it a permanent mount for the Starlink dish.
The tripod’s stainless steel and zinc materials are excellent for outdoor use.
At just over 10 lbs, it is easy to carry around if you need to detach it and change locations to a clearer area.
Its 3ft length gives you enough height to get more clearance on a flat roof. Still, it’ll take the Starlink mast comfortably.
Furthermore, you can get it with a mast up to 28” included.
Alternatively, add another pole before attaching the Starlink adapter to install the dish.
The Skywalker comes with adjustable legs.
They open up to 32 inches when open. That’s enough stability to give you a firm hold in a windy location.
Since it’s meant as a permanent support structure, it comes with six 5/16 bolts and nuts to fasten on the roof or RV. You can add three bolts for extra support when you drill it into place.
Unfortunately, it is not very reliable on uneven grounds.
Custom Starlink Base and Pole Mount
Starlink offers a pole mount for the Starlink dish. The pole mount is one of the most adaptable accessories in the mount lineup.
You can pair it with the default Starlink base to form a custom tripod mount.
The pole by itself is 95 inches (7ft). You can join it to the Starlink base to improve vertical reach for better signal clarity.
However, it might not be the best solution in windy areas. To that end, you’d have to secure the base to a stronger base or bolt the base down on a flat structure.
Installing a Starlink Tripod Mount
A tripod mount installation is pretty straightforward. Since it comes assembled, you only need to find a clear spot, level the ground and install the tripod on a flat surface.
It’s vital to understand the tripod mount is not the best fit for direct underground use. Therefore, you have to make a base for the tripod.
Here’s an easy-to-follow installation procedure.
- Find a clear spot. To get a clear signal, put the dish with the stock mount in a location with a clear view of the sky. We recommend letting the dish collect data between 12 and 24 hours.
Choose the best location for mounting using these metrics.
- Too many red dots on the map? Move the location and retry the obstruction test.
- Some inconsistent red dots on the map? Mount the dish in a high position or move it to a clearer area.
- Minimal to zero red dots? You just found the sweet spot to mount the Starlink dish on a tripod.
- Secure the tripod on the ground. Use third-party nail pegs to secure the Starlink tripod mount to the ground. The pegs measure about 10 inches, enough to get to a firm hold on soft ground. However, this is only practical in a place with fair year-round weather.
- Insert the Starlink adapter into the tripod pole.
- Push gently the Starlink mast into the Starlink pole adapter. At this point, your Starlink should be secure and functional once you reconnect the dishy to power and search for a signal.
Starlink Tripod Mount Roof Install
The tripod legs extend outwards into a stability plate with pre-drilled holes. Therefore, it is perfect for a flat roof if the legs don’t move.
- With the clear signal locked in, place the tripod in position.
- Mark the positions of the holes.
- Drill into the roof’s flat surface.
- Preferably spray sealant into the holes to prevent water infiltration. Seal with sealant patches.
- Position the tripod mount’s holes over the drilled holes.
- Drill bolts with the washers straight through the tripod holes, past the sealant patches, and into the roof.
- It’s a good idea to apply sealant or caulk around the tripod’s stand.
- Insert the Starlink adapter into the tripod’s pole.
- Insert the Starlink dish mast first into the adapter. It should be a snug fit.
Routing the Starlink Cable
The Starlink dish comes with a 100ft cable. After mounting the Starlink dish, a clean cable routing is vital in keeping you connected and the cable free from potential damage.
If you mount the Starlink dish outside, it is a good idea to bury some cables in conduit piping leading to the house.
That is why roof tripod mount installation is preferable.
Run a small length of the cable along the tripod mount pole and create a service loop. Secure the loop with zip ties or electrical tape. Secure the cable on the pole, too.
Reconnect The Starlink Dish
As you route the cable to the house, wrap the port connector to avoid damage. Plug the cable into the router and wait for Starlink to power up.
Once it’s online, let it automatically align with the satellites overhead.
Perform a speed test to ensure your dish is properly mounted and functional.
Conclusion: Is the Starlink Tripod Mount Worth It?
The stock Starlink tripod mount is stable enough to get you started. However, it would be best if you elevated your dish to get the best reception.
Aftermarket tripod mounts are built to accommodate the Starlink dish weight and keep it sturdy against wind and snow.
It is an easy-to-install device for permanent outdoor Starlink mounting. For its convenience, it’s worth the cost.
