I just went on the Dish Network site and use the online chat feature. I wish to determine what my equipment needs would be prior to scheduling a visit from a technician. Here is the text of that discussion:

"Please wait while we find a Sales Representative to assist you...
If your wait time exeeds your expections, please try again later or contact us at 1-888-347-4881.
You have been connected to (01)Clement C.
(01)Clement C: Welcome to Dish Network, where you can experience the best channels at the lowest price. How may I assist you in your buying experience?
Ralph: I am a DirecTV customer but am considering switching to Dish Network because of the number of HD channels you have. I am confused as to equipment needs. I know a lot of Dish Network customers have 2-dishes. I live in a Condo and wish to avoid that.
(01)Clement C: Please give me a minute to go through the information you have sent.
.
(01)Clement C: The satellite dish that you will receive will be based on your programming.
(01)Clement C: You can place your order online and you will receive a confirmation in 24 hours.
Ralph: Currently with DirecTV, I receive all local channels, all HD channels, and basically all programming except pay per view. What dish would I get?
(01)Clement C: I apologize but it would be our technician who will configure your satellite dish.
Ralph: I would like to find out prior to scheduling installation, so that I do not needlessly take time off from work.
(01)Clement C: I understand that you value your time.
(01)Clement C: You will receive a confirmation within 24 hours after you place the order. You can call 1-888-347-4881 to verify the type of dish that you will get based on your programming."


I hope this does not represent the depth of technical assistance I can hope to get from Dish Network if I switch to them.

Chat never is great. You may be able to get more info if you call, but who knows.

I suggest checking out www.dbstalk.com, AVS Forum's sister site dedicated to satellite talk. You'll get all of the info you may need. Start a new thread there, and give them all the info you can, especially where you live. There probably will be another Dish customer in your area that can give you details or they may even be an installer/tech or two that can help.

Good luck. :)

Good suggestion. Got my question answered in a hurry there.