Starlink Mini Satellite Dish-First tryout

I picked up a Starlink Mini Satellite Dish (Space X Built) at $299 with a first tier level of service at $50 a month. When you purchase the unit there is an automatic first month charge. I only initially set it up and activated my app but didn't use it. Month #2 I "Paused" service at $5 a month. This is supposed to provide very limited service.
Long story short, I'm taking my Starlink out to Shelter Valley California tomorrow to try it out for an upcoming weekend trip. No electricity out there other than a camp generator which will not be fired up. I purchased a cigarette plug adapter cable to power up the Starlink. The Starlink app is pretty cool, you scan the sky to see where the biggest cluster of Elon's satellites are and adjust the dish accordingly. Hope it all works! I'm prepped for the unknown!

 

Here's my report from trying out my Starlink Mini using power from my 2024 4Runner SR5. Good thing the Starlink Mini is almost idiot proof! I did get the unit to fire up on a limited use basis probably to me being slow on the uptake on the learning curve.
Here's my takeaway question: (Please don't tell me to read the manual. It's much more fun asking questions here on the forum) How do I power up the power port in the arm rest compartment or the power port and 3 prong plug at the rear deck without turning on the engine?
By the way, had a great day of target shooting at Shelter Valley California.

 

How long were you connected? I'm considering one, and how to power the router has been a lingering question for me, but I don't think I would power it using my vehicle's battery. Have you considered something like the power bank in the link?

$67 UGREEN Power Bank 25000mAh 145W Laptop Portable Charger, Nexode 3-Port USB C PD Battery Pack, for MacBook Pro/Air, Dell XPS, iPhone 16/15/14, Galaxy S24, Steam Deck, iPad, and More

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BJQ7F16T

 

Amazon has several power adapters and cables to connect the Starlink unit to your 4Runners cigarette light port. The one I bought has a digital readout so one can make sure there is electricity flowing to the Starlink unit. I think I now know how to power up my power ports, I have one under the arm rest and another at the rear deck along with a 3 prong plug. I'll try and power up my Starlink again to my 4Runner with the Amazon adapter and using the 3 prong power plug provided. If you spend some time cruising around Amazon you'll also see other battery hookup options including stand alone batteries.

 

In regards to the usefulness of the portable Starlink Mini Satellite Dish, I have a camping buddy that works remotely and his Starlink allows him to travel and work anywhere he can set it up without obstructions like trees, etc. Right now he's on his way to Wyoming where he will camp in his Travel Trailer
for a couple of months using his Starlink Mini to stay connected to the internet for work. I plan on taking mine out again soon to Shelter Valley California while camping in my RV for a couple of days.

 

Show us the setup if you can.

 

You have to turn the key a couple of clicks in order to power the cigarette lighters.

Same applies for the plug in the back but you have to press the 220v button on the dash to supply power to that particular plug.

I would jut invest in some sort of power supply rather than draining your car battery doing that.

But thanks for bringing this topic up. I wasn't aware of the mini version. Does it do everything the regular sized satellite dish does?

 

I'm still exploring what my Starlink Mini will do. It is supposed to be versatile in use vs. the larger House sized unit. One of my buddies swears by his. He even rents his Starlink out, last I heard, to some guys going out on a boat!