Intellian i5 TV Antenna – Worth It or Not? SWM30 Kit Review

Introduction

The Intellian i5 TV Antenna All-Americas LNB With SWM30 Kit for Boats & Marine Engines is a top-tier marine satellite TV solution tailored for mid-to-large vessels seeking uninterrupted, high-definition television while navigating the waters of North, Central, and South America. With a high-gain 20.8” antenna and advanced SWM30 multiswitch integration, this system ensures strong signal reception even in offshore or rough-sea conditions. Whether you’re a liveaboard sailor, charter yacht captain, or leisure cruiser, this system delivers all the comforts of land-based entertainment at sea.

Engineered for durability and reliability, the Intellian i5 system excels in maintaining signal lock during motion, adverse weather, or region transitions. Its compatibility with DirecTV and easy installation make it an ideal upgrade for any boat outfitted with HDTVs. Pairing it with the SWM30 enables simple wiring for multiple TVs, making this a plug-and-play solution for demanding marine entertainment needs.

Overview / What Is Intellian i5 TV Antenna

The Intellian i5 TV Antenna All-Americas LNB With SWM30 Kit is a premium-grade 20.8-inch satellite dome that allows boaters to access crystal-clear HDTV across the Americas. It integrates Intellian’s proprietary WorldView LNB technology configured specifically for DirecTV satellite alignment and automatic tracking. Unlike traditional dual LNB models, the All-Americas version is tuned for seamless operation throughout US, Canada, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean.

The included SWM30 kit supports simultaneous multi-TV connectivity (up to 13 receivers), reducing cable clutter and system complexity. Designed for offshore durability, the rugged dome resists salt, UV, vibration, and high humidity—offering years of maintenance-free operation.

• 20.8” reflector for enhanced signal gain
• All-Americas LNB for broad regional compatibility
• Supports DirecTV, DISH (in US waters), and Bell TV
• SWM30 enables multi-TV installations
• Auto-acquisition of satellites and seamless switching

Why Choose Intellian i5 Over i4 or i3 Models?

For medium to large vessels, the Intellian i5 TV Antenna All-Americas LNB With SWM30 Kit offers a noticeable performance upgrade. With its larger reflector, the i5 captures more signal in fringe areas, where smaller domes might struggle. If you’re cruising far from shore or through unpredictable weather, the i5 maintains signal stability with minimal dropouts.

Compared to the i3 or i4, the i5’s dual-axis stabilization and enhanced gain make it ideal for extended voyages across regional waters. It’s the best choice for yachts and trawlers ranging from 40’ to 65’, and the SWM30 integration saves hours of wiring and configuration. This is a set-it-and-sail solution for modern mariners.

How to Install the Intellian i5 TV Antenna With SWM30

Installation of the Intellian i5 TV Antenna All-Americas LNB With SWM30 Kit is user-friendly for marine technicians or DIY-savvy boaters. Begin by selecting a vibration-free location, ideally centered on the vessel’s roofline, and ensure no obstruction like radar masts or domes are nearby.

Secure the antenna mount using marine-grade stainless hardware. Run RG6 coaxial cable from the antenna to the SWM30, which should be mounted in a dry, accessible interior location. Connect the SWM30 to your satellite receivers or DVR using included splitter ports. Lastly, power the ACU (antenna control unit), and the dish will auto-align to the nearest DirecTV satellite. Full signal lock usually takes less than 3 minutes.

Maintenance Tips

To keep your Intellian i5 TV Antenna All-Americas LNB With SWM30 Kit operating optimally, follow routine maintenance practices. Clean the dome’s exterior monthly using a soft cloth and marine-safe soap to prevent salt buildup, bird droppings, or UV damage.

Inspect cable connections for signs of wear or corrosion. Apply dielectric grease to exposed ports and reseal cable glands annually. Update firmware of the ACU every six months via USB—Intellian provides free updates to improve tracking and regional satellite maps. If you’re dry docking, consider detaching and storing the dome indoors for extended vessel inactivity.

All-Americas LNB – How It Boosts Versatility

The All-Americas LNB technology in the Intellian i5 allows the antenna to receive signals from multiple satellite providers throughout the Americas without requiring manual adjustment or hardware swaps. This means seamless TV reception as you transition from Florida to the Bahamas, or from California down to Panama.

For boaters who frequently travel across countries, this offers convenience, continuity, and fewer signal dropouts. Combined with auto-skew and fast reacquisition algorithms, the i5 ensures smooth switching between satellites like 101W, 110W, and 119W. You get high-definition, encrypted DirecTV feeds without complicated programming changes.

Expert Advice and Pro Recommendations

Marine professionals often recommend the Intellian i5 TV Antenna All-Americas LNB With SWM30 Kit for vessels engaging in bluewater cruising, Caribbean charters, or offshore fishing expeditions. Its performance in long-range and rough-sea conditions makes it a solid investment for serious seafarers.

Use RG6 quad-shield cables for all runs, and avoid sharp bends in coaxial lines. Mount the SWM30 in a dry cabinet with ventilation. For maximum resilience, connect to an inverter or voltage-regulated breaker. For coastal cruisers, it pairs perfectly with Yamaha helm controls and propulsion systems—learn more about compatible electronics here.

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Cost and Durability Expectations for the i5 Antenna

The Intellian i5 TV Antenna All-Americas LNB With SWM30 Kit falls in the mid-to-premium price category for marine satellite systems. But its durability, ease of use, and long lifespan justify the investment. The dome is built from impact-resistant ABS plastic with a UV-stable coating that withstands harsh marine exposure.

Owners report 6–10 years of consistent performance with proper maintenance. Compared to cheaper systems requiring manual calibration or frequent LNB swaps, the Intellian i5 offers cost savings over time. Its SWM30 integration also reduces labor costs during installation.

Detailed FAQ Section

How many TVs can I connect to the Intellian i5 TV Antenna system?

With the included SWM30 Kit, you can connect up to 13 tuners or 26 if using DVR/Genie configurations. The SWM30 is designed to work seamlessly with DirecTV’s multi-room viewing, eliminating the need for multiple coaxial runs. Just one cable can power and transmit signal to each receiver, reducing installation effort and maintaining clean electrical layouts. This is especially useful for larger yachts or commercial vessels where multiple viewing zones are needed.

Is the Intellian i5 suitable for boats traveling internationally?

Yes. The All-Americas LNB covers satellite footprints across North, Central, and parts of South America, including Caribbean islands. As long as your service provider (e.g., DirecTV Latin America) operates in the region, you’ll enjoy uninterrupted service. The i5 automatically switches satellites as your vessel changes longitude. If you’re heading outside the Americas, consider models with WorldView LNB or upgrade to dual-system compatibility with regional LNB kits.

How do I troubleshoot signal loss with the Intellian i5?

If you lose signal, check the following: first, verify cable connections to the SWM30 and ACU are secure. Next, confirm the antenna has power and the ACU LED indicators are functioning. Signal loss can also occur if the dome is obstructed by radar, sails, or other antennas. A firmware update may resolve satellite recognition issues. If problems persist, run a diagnostic via the ACU menu and contact Intellian support with the error code. Regular software updates help prevent such issues altogether.

What size boat is ideal for the Intellian i5 TV Antenna?

The i5 is best suited for vessels ranging from 40 to 65 feet. It strikes the perfect balance between signal gain and compact form factor. Smaller vessels may opt for the i3 or i4, while larger expedition yachts might benefit from the i6 or s6HD for HD DVR integration and expanded capabilities. For boats that cruise offshore regularly or have multiple cabins, the i5 remains the top choice in its class.

Can I use the Intellian i5 with streaming services like Netflix?

No. The Intellian i5 is a satellite TV antenna, not an internet system. It’s built for services like DirecTV, Bell, and DISH (US waters). If you want Netflix, Hulu, or YouTube on your boat, you’ll need a separate satellite internet solution or 4G/LTE system onboard. However, DirecTV receivers connected via the SWM30 do support DVR and On-Demand when an internet connection is available, allowing you to enjoy recorded shows like streaming services during downtime.

Conclusion

The Intellian i5 TV Antenna All-Americas LNB With SWM30 Kit for Boats & Marine Engines stands out as one of the most robust and user-friendly marine satellite TV systems available. Its superior signal performance, compatibility across the Americas, and simplified SWM30 installation make it a smart investment for long-distance cruisers and liveaboards. Whether you’re anchored in the Caribbean or navigating Pacific passages, this system guarantees uninterrupted HDTV anywhere your voyage takes you.

For boaters who demand reliable, high-definition entertainment at sea, the i5 is the clear winner. Add it to your vessel today and experience the difference a premium antenna makes.

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For more helpful marine maintenance guides, check out our article on Intellian i3 TV Antenna – US & Canada LNB With SWM30 Kit.