You do not have to choose every accessory before you understand the installation. Start with four questions: where could the dish go, which exact kit are you using, how would the cable reach power, and who can install it safely? Write down the answers before ordering extras.
This is a planning guide, with separate connection references for Standard 4 and Mini. It does not assess your building, replace a mount manual or describe a Dishwits field test.
1. Find a location worth planning around
For the Standard 4 setup documented here: Use the Starlink app obstruction tool to check for a clear sky view before choosing the mounting location Source Checked
Start with a location you can assess safely. A convenient place beside the house is not a useful result if you intend to install somewhere else. Note where you checked and save the app result. If the intended location is difficult to reach, ask an installer how they would assess it.
If you cannot identify a suitable location, pause the equipment shopping. Work out whether a different position is practical before paying for a mount or committing to an installation.
2. Match the manual to the equipment in front of you
Record the kit name and the router name separately, then compare the components with the matching manual. Keep a photograph of the labels for your own reference. If the names or connectors do not match the instructions, resolve the mismatch first.
- Standard 4 connection reference: Watersealed end of cable B into the power supply; other end into Router Mini Ethernet port 1 or 2; cable C from the power supply to an outlet Source Checked The linked Standard 4 manual shows the cable ends and power-supply layout on page 4.
- Mini connection reference: Lift the kickstand; plug the provided DC cable into the Mini until the plug face is flush; route the other end to the power supply and plug the supply into an outlet Source Checked Follow the Mini diagram on page 4 for this connection.
Do not adapt either connection summary to a different kit. Use the hardware guide if you are unsure what you own. For the fuller identification directory, see Which Starlink hardware do you have?. The complete manuals are linked below.
3. Trace the whole cable route
Sketch the route from the proposed dish position to the equipment indoors. Record the route you would actually use, including turns and the entry point. Compare that plan with the exact cable supplied or proposed; a straight-line estimate is not a complete route.
- Which cable and connectors does this kit require?
- Where would the cable enter the building, and who would handle that work?
- Where would the power supply and router sit under their installation instructions?
- Could someone inspect the accessible connections later without disturbing the whole installation?
Use the accessory compatibility guide to organize the options. Ask the supplier to resolve any uncertain pairing before ordering. Do not buy an extra cable, adapter or router just because its connector looks familiar.
4. Decide what you can do and what needs an installer
Be clear about which parts of the plan you are comfortable carrying out. Starlink’s Mini manual advises getting professional installation if any part makes you uncomfortable. If the proposal involves height, drilling, roof work or an uncertain supporting surface, ask an appropriately equipped installer to assess that work.
Ask the installer to explain the proposed mount, surface, cable entry and future access. Give them the exact kit and mount instructions. This guide does not provide structural calculations, drilling steps or roof-sealing instructions.
5. Build an installation estimate you can check
List each item separately so you can see what an offer includes. These are planning categories, not current prices or a claim that you need every item.
- Equipment already included in your kit.
- The exact mount and any additional compatible cable or accessories.
- Installation labor, any site visit and the agreed scope of work.
- Shipping, applicable tax and any other quoted charges.
- Recurring service, kept separate from one-time setup costs.
Mark uncertain items as “needs a quote” instead of guessing. Compare the complete proposal with your service-plan costs and other connections available to you. It is reasonable to wait if the workable installation costs more than you want to spend.
6. Check the result and keep a useful record
For Mini alignment: Use the app’s alignment alert to rotate the terminal as directed Source Checked
After following the exact setup instructions, check the app for alerts and try the activities that matter to you. Write down what worked, what did not and where you used the connection. Keep the equipment list, manuals, installer’s scope and photographs of accessible connections together. Keep account credentials private.
If a problem remains, record the symptom and the checks already completed. Use the matching troubleshooting guide or contact support. Avoid turning an unexplained fault into a series of accessory purchases.
Manufacturer instructions used for this draft
- Standard 4 setup guide: page 4 for the Router Mini cable diagram; page 5 for the obstruction check.
- Mini setup guide: page 4 for power and alignment; page 13 for installation conditions.
Source PDFs retained for this batch dated 2026-09-13. A source retrieval date is not a completed review.