How are Starlink's Antenna and Router Powered?

When it comes to Starlink's power supply, its design is actually quite clever and simple, making it very user-friendly for the average person.

Simply put, you just need to plug its router into a standard wall outlet at home, just like plugging in your TV or computer.

You might be wondering: "What about the outdoor antenna (that white square 'dish')? Do I need to run a power cable from outside as well?"

Good question! This is precisely where its clever design comes in. The answer is: no, you don't.

For the entire Starlink kit, there's actually only one cable you'll see. This long, thick, specialized cable connects to the outdoor antenna at one end and the indoor router at the other.

This single cable does two things simultaneously:

1. Power supply: After the router receives power from the wall outlet, it transmits that power to the outdoor antenna via this cable.
2. Data transmission: The satellite signals received by the antenna are sent back to the router through the same cable, and the router then converts these signals into Wi-Fi for your internet access.

This "one cable for both power and internet" technology has a professional name: "PoE" (Power over Ethernet). You can think of it like early landline telephones, where a single phone line allowed for calls (data transmission) and also provided a small amount of power for the phone to operate, without needing an extra power plug. Starlink works on the same principle, except it transmits significantly more power.

So, the entire installation and power-up process for the user is as follows:

1. Mount the antenna outdoors in an open area with a clear view of the sky.
2. Connect the single long cable between the antenna and the router.
3. Plug the router into any convenient power outlet in your home.

Done! As soon as it's plugged in, both the router and antenna will start working.

As a side note, if you plan to use Starlink in places without standard outlets, like an RV or outdoors, you'll need an "inverter" or a portable power station. Plug the Starlink router into these devices, and they will convert the car battery's 12V DC power into household AC power, allowing Starlink to operate normally. However, be aware that Starlink is quite power-hungry (typically 50-100 watts), so make sure your power supply equipment is robust enough.