Would you love to get more channels on your DStv at no extra cost? I bet you do. But a lot of people do not know how to go about it. In this article, you will learn how to unlockfree-to-air (FTA) channels on your DStvHD decoder in a few simple steps.
Before we get started, here are the items you need to get free channels on your DStv:
- A DStv HD decoder with MPEG-4 capabilities, installed on is20 satellite. You will need a decoder with MPEG-4 capabilities for free to air channels. If you are not using an MPEG-4 capable decoder, you won’t receive audio on most channels.This is why many people complain of sound after setting up free-to-air channels.
- A remote control compatible with DStv HD decoders. That could be an A7, a B5, B7, an all-in-one DStv remote or any other compatible remote control.
Now let’s get started installing those channels. Don’t forget to check out our FTA sports channels.
How to Install Free-To-Air Channels on DStv HD Decoder
The following settings will take you through step by step on how to get free channels on HD.
STEP 1
Go to Menu by pressing the Blue “DStv” button.
STEP 2
Then select Settings and go to Satellite Settings.
STEP 3
Select Additional Networks.
STEP 4
On Additional Networks, you will find Networks numbered from 1 to 5. Do not change any frequencies on Network #1. Simply put “YES” where there is “NO.” You will start changing the settings from Network 2 all the way to Network 5.
STEP 5
- Go to Network 2 and apply the following changes:
| FREQUENCY | 11514 or 11170 |
| SYMBOL RATE | 28750 |
| FEC | 3/4 |
| POLARISATION | Vertical OR Horizontal |
Then apply Scan this (Scan all✖).
- Apply the following settings to NETWORK 3:
| FREQUENCY | 12562 |
| MODULATION | DVB-S2 |
| SYMBOL | 30000 |
| FEC | 5/6 |
| POLARISATION | Horizontal |
Apply Scan this✔ (Scan all✖)
- Make the following changes to NETWORK 4 for Eagle TV and more.
| FREQUENCY | 12682 |
| MODULATION | DVB-S |
| SYMBOL | 30000 |
| FEC | 2/3 |
| POLARISATION | VERTICAL |
Apply Scan this✔ (Scan all✖).
- Apply these to NETWORK 5:
| Enable Network | Yes |
| Use UNIT | Yes |
| Frequency | 12543 |
| Modulation | DVB-S |
| Symbol Rate | 1600 |
| FEC | 3/4 |
| Polarisation | Vertical |
Once you are done, press “Options” on your remote. Locate Channel Group and change it from “My DStv Channels” to “All Channels.” Save your changes, then press 100 and scroll left, you will see all the channels that are coming before channel 100.
The channel numbers for the added channels will carry four digits.
Are you having trouble setting up Free channels?
Sometimes you may find that the decoder won’t scan automatically. If this happens and it’s showing you that your parameters are incorrect, it means one of two things: either (1) your signal strength is low or (2) your LNB is not properly positioned.
If that’s the case, you’ll need to find a certified dish installer at your location to assist you.
Are you not getting sound on free channels? After setting up free channels on DStv, you may find that some channels are muted. Most of these channels will appear 2 to 3 times on the channels list. One will have audio and the other will be muted. Find the one that comes with audio and select it.
The other apparent reason you may not get audio is using the MPEG-2 decoder. Most channels won’t give you sound on such a decoder and the setting may not even work. Upgrade to a modern MPEG-4 DStv HD decoder for best results.
This is because in the last two years, 2021 and 2022, most FTA channels have taken up new audio encryption technologies. To conquer these settings and get proper sound, you need a good decoder and the best signal strength for the frequency you’re using.
If you are having problems with the free channels set up, drop a comment below. Have fun!
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FAQs
If some channels are not playing on DStv, your decoder is not receiving enough signal strength to play them out. The signal strength and quality are low because of the misalignment of your dish. In some cases, poor signal quality results from misaligned LNB also.
Why is my DStv not showing all the channels? ›
The main cause for your decoder to lose signal is a lack of signal or an interruption that makes the signal strength to be too low. When the signal is low, your satellite will have problems receiving weak signals, and the channels associated with them will not be displayed on your decoder.
How do I add Free to Air channels to my DStv HD decoder? ›
Press the Blue DStv button to display the menu options. Navigate to Settings and select Satellite Settings. Use the navigational buttons to move Additional Networks., then press OK to select. On the Additional Networks, there are Networks numbered from 1–5.
How do I get Free to Air channels? ›
If you live in an area where the TV signals are good, you may be fine with an indoor antenna but if it's not working very well you can try to position the antenna near a window or higher location. Outdoor antennas are the most popular type of digital tv antenna and have a much stronger signal than indoor antennas.
Why isn't my HD antenna picking up channels? ›
The causes mostly come down to the basic idea that the signals reaching the device aren't strong enough. You may be too far from the broadcast location, or something physically blocks the signals. The antenna could be in a less-than-ideal place or facing the wrong direction.
How do I update my DStv HD decoder? ›
You can manually update the software as follows :
- Press the blue DStv button.
- Go to Settings.
- Select User Preferences.
- Select General.
- Select Download latest software.
- (If this option is greyed out, the decoder is already on the latest software)
The number of Freeview channels available at your address depends on the transmitter you receive your signal from. It also depends on your equipment – for example, if you want HD TV then you'll need an HD device.
How do I unblock channels on DStv? ›
How to Unlock Channels
- Press the Menu button or the blue button on your DStv remote.
- Go to Settings.
- Opt for the Parental Control option and press OK.
- Enter the pin code, the default pin code (1234).
- Under Global Blocking, switch to No Block.
- Exit the menu by pressing the Return Key. Share this: Twitter.
You can either download the DStv app from your app store or you can login to our website to stream live TV channels and watch Catch Up. All viewing requires a login – even if you're not a DStv subscriber.
How do I get missing channels back on my TV? ›
1) Turn on your TV. 2) Press [Menu] on your TV remote to bring up the Main menu. 3) Press [Arrow Down] to the Channel Menu, and then press [Enter]. 4) Press [Arrow Down] to Auto Program, and then press [Enter].
Poor signal strength and/or quality is the main reason why some DStv channels are not working on your decoder or your picture freezing/loss of sound. In most cases, it is the misaligned satellite dish that causes the problem. Remember, an LNB that is out of alignment can also cause this problem.
How do I unlock my decoder channels? ›
How to Unlock DTV Channels
- Connect the coaxial cable wire attached to the TV antenna to the DTV box's RF In nodule (usually labeled "Ant. ...
- Screw one end of the independent coaxial cable wire into the DTV box's RF Out nodule. ...
- Insert the DTV box's power cord into the DC power jack located on the back of the DTV box.
ABC HD, 7mate, 7HD, 9HD, Ten HD, SBS HD along with regional networks WIN HD, Prime7HD, 9HD with NBN and 7HD with Southern Cross are available unencrypted and without subscription on digital satellite, and may be received by anybody with suitable equipment – a high-definition satellite receiver and a satellite dish.
How many channels are on HD decoder? ›
In addition to about 20 HD Channels, there are over 100 channels more in SD that can be received via the HD+ Decoder.
Why are free to air channels not working? ›
Common Causes of Reception Issues
Reception problems can be caused by: Fault with the antenna, for example: UHF aerial is incorrectly aligned or obstructed. Satellite dish is incorrectly positioned or obstructed.
Does DStv have free to air channels? ›
The free to air channels are also available all around the country as long you have a compatible TV set or set top box. Some of these free to air TV stations are also available for viewing on pay TV platforms such as DStv, Startimes and Zuku.
Is Freeview the same as free to air? ›
The basic Freeview service supports all digital free-to-air channels available in your area. This includes both SD and HD channels along with the Freeview EPG for all channels, excluding WIN television.
How do I get all the channels on my antenna? ›
If you watch free over-the-air television with an antenna, you should rescan your TV set periodically to make sure you're receiving all the available channels in your area. This is the same scan that you did to find your local channels when you set up your TV or converter box for the first time.
How can I get my outdoor antenna to pick up more channels? ›
5 Ways to Get Better Antenna Reception
- 1) Direct your Antenna Correctly.
- 2) Move your Antenna's Placement.
- 3) Reduce Interference.
- 4) Consider Replacing your Cable.
- 5) Amplifier.
Firstly the main difference between the two decoder options is the PVR function. PVR is an abbreviation of Personal Viewer Recorder. Therefore the main difference between the DStv Explora and the DStv HD decoder is the recording function. The recording function does affect the pricing of the DStv Explora.
Category 3: Old and Irrepairable Decoders - "End of Support" These decoders are classified as “end of support”. They don't have the processing power and memory to deal with our new services. This means your viewing will be impacted as you won't be able to get some of our channels or you will experience freeze-ups.
What happens when you upgrade your DStv package? ›
When you upgrade, you need to pay in the difference between your current package and the upgraded package for the time left until your next payment date. You can downgrade once a month on the day your subscription payment is due. You can log onto Self Service and request for us to schedule this downgrade for you.
How do I get Freeview in HD? ›
All you need to do is connect to a working aerial to watch live TV. If you have a Freeview HD TV, you can enjoy up to 15 HD channels. And if you want to be able to pause, rewind and record live TV, you can upgrade to a Freeview HD or Freeview Play recorder – visit our Freeview products page to see the range available.
What is the difference between Freesat and Freeview? ›
The key difference between Freesat and Freeview is the way in which your TV service is delivered to you. Whilst Freeview is delivered through an aerial, the Freesat broadcast arrives via satellite giving us a more resilient signal that isn't as impacted by things like adverse weather.
How do you get all channels back on Freeview? ›
Retuning: a step-by-step guide
- Press menu on your box or TV remote control.
- Select set-up, installation, update or a similar option. ...
- Select first-time installation (sometimes called factory reset, full retune or default settings).
This agreement is effective from 31 May 2022. The channels that were part of the previous agreement are eTV, eMovies, eMovies Extra, eExtra and eToonz; these channels are not part of the new agreement will no longer be available on DStv as of 31 May. “We constantly review our channel offering on DStv.
What happens when you factory reset your DStv decoder? ›
Resetting your decoder can fix corrupt software. Also, if you mess up the correct configurations of the decoder you can always restore the default factory settings by resetting your decoder.
Why did all my channels disappear? ›
It's normal that the digital signals for the channels you have lost were stronger when you initially scanned than it is currently. There are several reasons why this could happen, including weather conditions, electrical interference, weak signal, and atmospheric pressure.
Why did DStv remove some channels? ›
MultiChoice Group has dropped four e.tv channels from DStv after the Competition Tribunal ruled against e.tv parent eMedia in a dispute with the pay-television operator.
What is the PIN code for DStv decoder? ›
The PIN code for TV INSTALLATION is 9949. This PIN code cannot be changed by the user. From Advanced Options, select “TV Installation” and press OK, followed by the security PIN (9949).
MultiChoice Group-owned pay-television service DStv is offering free access to 16 channels, including to non-subscribers. Since the lockdown started, usage of the service has increased to 20% and peak usage is 80% compared to pre-crisis peaks.
Can you get all Freeview channels on now TV? ›
Unfortunately, you cannot access Freeview channels via NOW TV. However, as these services are free you'll be able to access them by downloading the Freeview app on your streaming device or smart TV if it isn't already included.
How many channels does DStv full package have? ›
With 135+ TV channels and 95+ audio channels, it's the best package DStv has to offer. You can look forward to classics like M-Net, exclusive movie channels like M-Net Movies 1, M-Net Movies 2 and fliekNET, and a full bouquet of sports channels from SuperSport – available to enjoy on up to five devices.
How do I enable HD decoder? ›
Dial the number on the bottom right-hand corner using a cellphone *120*6843*1# and follow the prompts. Use your STB number to complete your decoder activation.
How do I fix signal strength on DStv HD? ›
How To Fix Signal Strength On DStv?
- Try rebooting the decoder.
- Check F-type connectors. ...
- Correct the LNB alignment. ...
- Adjust satellite dish alignment. ...
- Replace a faulty LNB.
- Move your satellite dish. ...
- Cut down or prune trees that may obstruct the signal.
Missing channels? If you can't find the full range of channels that you had before, we recommend you have your aerial and cabling checked – it's possible that it's become damaged or corroded or been moved out of position slightly.
How do I add channels to my satellite receiver? ›
To scan and add satellite channels, please follow the steps below, 1.
...
How can I scan to add missing channels?
- Go to Menu.
- Select Settings.
- Choose System setup.
- Enter Pin code (0000).
- Choose Free Scan.
- Choose Satellite Scan.
- To start automatic scanning, press the green button on your remote control.
HD content is available on selected packages and only when using a HD capable decoder connected to a HD TV via HDMI.
How do I fix channels not working? ›
Check the cable connections between the TV and your video device or receiver. Change the channel or try a different input device or movie. The received signal may be weak. If your TV uses a cable or satellite box, you may need to contact your service provider for further assistance in improving the signal strength.
How do I refresh my DStv channels? ›
Type RESET, leave a space, and type your DStv smartcard number/decoder IUC number. Send the message to the Dstv Nigeria SMS shortcode 30333. You will receive a confirmation message informing you the request is being processed. DStv will restore all channels in your package in less than 15 minutes.
Getting started with watching free, over-the-air TV using an antenna is fairly simple. In most cases, you can take the antenna out of the box, connect the cable to your TV, run a channel scan, adjust the antenna for optimum reception and you're good to go!
How do I get open view HD channels? ›
Connect the cable from the dish to the LNB-IN port and switch the OpenView HD decoder ON. The decoder will pick up the OpenView HD signal automatically. You will need to activate the decoder by following the instructions in the box to start receiving your free entertainment.
Which free to air channels are HD? ›
ABC HD, 7mate, 7HD, 9HD, Ten HD, SBS HD along with regional networks WIN HD, Prime7HD, 9HD with NBN and 7HD with Southern Cross are available unencrypted and without subscription on digital satellite, and may be received by anybody with suitable equipment – a high-definition satellite receiver and a satellite dish.
Why is my HD antenna not picking up local channels? ›
The signal could be lost in the coaxial cable distribution.
If you are using a splitter, this could also weaken signal strength. Try disconnecting the splitter and running the cable directly into the TV/converter box and run a channel scan. If reception improves, a distribution amplifier is likely to be the solution.
Can you get free local channels with an antenna? ›
Over-the-air TV has been around for years, and it's built right into your TV -- all you need is an antenna. Local channels broadcast in your area provide sports, news and TV shows from ABC, CBS, Fox, NBC, PBS and more with excellent HD image quality.
