A Freesat box does require two cables in order to take advantage of all its features. Specifically, if you want to be able to record one channel while watching another, you will need to have two cables wiring from your dish. This is often referred to as a twin sat setup.
The reason for needing two cables is that the Freesat box needs to be able to receive signals from two separate satellite transponders simultaneously. One cable is used to receive the signal for the channel you are currently watching, while the other cable is used to receive the signal for the channel you want to record.
Having two cables allows for greater flexibility and convenience. For example, you can watch one program while recording another, or even record two programs at the same time. This is particularly useful if you have conflicting programs airing at the same time.
In addition to the twin sat setup, you will also need a Quad LNB (Low Noise Block) to provide the four outlets required for the cables. The Quad LNB is mounted on your satellite dish and acts as a signal distributor, allowing for multiple connections to your Freesat box.
It’s worth noting that not all Freesat boxes have the capability to record, so if this is a feature you are interested in, be sure to check the specifications of the specific box you are considering purchasing. Some Freesat boxes may only have a single tuner, meaning they can only receive one channel at a time, while others may have multiple tuners for simultaneous viewing and recording.
While it may require a bit of additional setup, having two cables connected to your Freesat box can greatly enhance your viewing experience by allowing you to take full advantage of the recording capabilities and watch multiple channels simultaneously.