1.37m Freesat System - Loss of channels Villamartin Area

[Apollo]

Hi there Sat and PG Guy,
I got one of those small systems last year for receiving 'some' Freesat channels on the understanding that bad weather could cause loss of picture. This is fine as I'm only a temporary visitor to Sapin. However, returning yesterday I find that I get no ITV channels and a weak, pixelated signal on BBC channels whereas previously they were good all good. (I checked again today with the clearer skies, doing a complete re-scan as well). I can get Sky and BBC News and lots of other, less popular channels like CBS, shopping etc. without any problem, but will really miss the main stream channels.

I have a Triax digibox and 1.37 m dish. I'm assuming channels have been moved around to make way for HD since I was last out to Spain in the Autumn. But I would have thought a re-scan would pick up any new frequencies of ITV and BBC. Any ideas please?

[satandpcguy]

Hi and welcome,
Some of the BBC channels did change their frequencies back in October (Important changes to BBC TV frequencies this weekend ) and a simple rescan on the Triax should update the channel list for you.

Also, your dish will be operating on the very limit of its reception in this fringe reception area. The slightest move in the dish will will cause drop in signals. One of the compromised of having a smaller dish...

So a realignment may help.

As maybe a change in LNB - an inverto ultra black would really help if you currently do not have one. They are ideal for offset dishes and are very good performers...expect to pay about 25-30 euros for one.

[Apollo]

Thanks for the very quick reponse.
This afternoon I got back BBC1 and 2. The ITV channels that were previously showing 'no signal' now show 'weak signal'.
I have the inverto ultra black LNB that you suggest as I think this is a pre-requisite for the small, and hence cheaper dish and Triax system I have. I guess you must be correct in that I need a dish realignment. I'll see about getting one done and report back in due course.

[Apollo]

Re-alignment done and all back to normal. Appears there were some bad winds over the winter that had knocked the dish out of alignment. Thanks for the advice.