RV FEATURE
You can convert the system to run on 12V ; however , it may not result in any significant reduction in power consumption . Some reports suggest it may reduce to 4A continuous draw .
While there are other advantages to converting the system to run on 12V , most users will simply purchase a small 300W inverter to run Starlink .
PRICING
Is Starlink cost-effective compared to other systems ?
Ultimately , this will depend very much on each individual ’ s situation , how much they need or want internet access , where and how often they travel .
If you rely on the mobile broadband network , the hardware costs are open-ended , as are the monthly access fees . We were spending $ 220 per month with Telstra for 560GB of data across two mobile phones and a 4G router . It wasn ’ t available everywhere and the performance was unpredictable .
The original packaging is quite sturdy and makes for a great way to safely store your Starlink system .
We have powered our Starlink from our Bluetti EB55 to ease the load on our caravan ' s batteries .
You can buy a portable satellite VAST TV system for around $ 700 . It ’ s free to use and you can get TV reception almost anywhere . It can be a real pain to set-up and all you can do is watch free-to-air TV . No internet , no streaming and no phone calls , so you need to factor in the costs for those services as well .
Alternatively , you can opt for the convenience of a roof-mounted , automatic satellite TV receiver . The initial hardware cost of these is pretty high , with prices between $ 2500 and almost $ 4000 . Again , it ’ s free to access but it is only free-to-air TV . If you park under trees , the system might not work at all .
Starlink ’ s initial hardware cost of $ 599 is pretty good value . Even on the mobile plan , the monthly rate is just $ 174 per month for unlimited data . You can stream any of the paid services you want or just stream the free-to-air TV channels via their apps as well as other free online content .
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