Common DStv Issues and How to Troubleshoot Them

We know how frustrating it can be when your DStv signal or decoder acts up. That’s why we’ve put together this quick guide to help you tackle common issues to help you get back to enjoying your favourite shows. If you ever need expert help, we’re just a call away!

Signal Loss: What's Going On?

• Poor Signal Strength

  If your signal strength is below 50%, you may experience issues with certain channels. This can occur if the satellite dish is misaligned or if the Low Noise Block (LNB) is not positioned correctly.
  

• Physical Obstructions

  Trees, buildings, or other objects blocking the line of sight between your dish and the satellite can disrupt the signal.
  

• Weather Conditions

  Heavy rain, storms, or strong winds can temporarily affect signal reception. It usually clears up on its own.
  

• Old Equipment

  If your LNB (the part on the dish), cables, or connectors are worn out, they might need replacing.
  

• Moisture

  Water in your connectors or cable (especially in the morning or evening) can disrupt the signal. It may clear as the temperature rises but could return when it cools again.
  

• Error Messages

  Messages like “E338-42” or “No Signal” usually point to bad weather or installation issues. These may require a DStv technician to fix

Common Error Messages

• No Signal Error (E48-32)

  This error often indicates problems with dish alignment, cable connections, or outdated software settings.
  

• Pixelation and Freezing

  These symptoms typically arise from poor signal reception due to misalignment or obstructions.
  

• E16-4, E33, or E18

  These relate to your subscription package. If it happens on all channels, it might mean your account needs payment. You can use the DStv Menu to navigate to a channel that’s included in your package
  

• E143-4

  This is a communication issue with secondary decoders on XtraView setups. A DStv technician can reset the settings to resolve it.

DSTV Decoder Problems

Decoder issues can also hinder your viewing experience. Here are some common problems and how to address them:

• Hard Drive Issues

  • Older decoders (and some newer ones) might show an HDD error if the memory is full. Try deleting old recordings or formatting the decoder: Press Menu > Settings > Format. (Note: Formatting deletes all recordings and settings.)

• Freezing or Blue Screen

  • This could mean the decoder needs to be realigned or rebooted.

  • Reboot by holding the power button on your DStv remote.

• Reboots or Power Issues

  • If your decoder keeps rebooting, it might have a technical fault and need replacing. After power surges, the power supply may need to be replaced.

• Software Updates

  • DStv often sends updates to your decoder. Check for messages or updates by clicking the envelope icon, and clear it once read.

• Swap-Outs

  • If your decoder can’t be fixed, you can replace it at a DStv service center or let us assist with an on-site swap. (Note: DStv charges a fee for swaps if the decoder isn’t insured.)

When to call Koltronics

If you have tried troubleshooting without success, it may be time to seek professional help. Here are signs that indicate you should contact your accredited installer, Koltronics:

• Persistent signal issues despite following troubleshooting steps.

• Hardware malfunctions that require specialised tools or knowledge.

• Complex installations involving multiple decoders or additional services.

For further assistance or professional installation services, please contact Koltronics today!