How to Fix DSTV E48 Error on Certain Channels: Troubleshooting Signal Loss on Individual Channels

How to fix Dstv error E48-32 on some channels

Experiencing signal loss on some channels while others work perfectly can be frustrating, especially when you’re tuning in to your favourite shows. If you’re dealing with the DSTV no signal error message only on some channels or partial signal loss, you’re not alone. This issue often appears on channels requiring a stronger signal, such as DSTV Channel 161 and Channel 194. While DSTV’s E48-32 error usually indicates no signal across all channels, the no signal error sometimes appears only on certain channels. with specific troubleshooting steps in this guide explains how to Fix DSTV Error E48-32 on some channels.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to fix the E48 error on certain channels, address why you might see the E48-32 error on select channels, and help you understand why DSTV signal loss may occur on specific channels. Whether you’re in a communal setup or using a DSTV smart switch with dual signal inputs, here’s everything you need to know to get back to uninterrupted viewing.

Understanding Why Only Some DSTV Channels May Show No Signal Errors

If you’re losing signal on other channels on DSTV while some channels are unaffected, it’s likely due to a specific issue with signal quality on one group of channels rather than an overall DSTV outage. The signal received by your DSTV channels is typically divided into two types based on the polarization, either vertical or horizontal.

What is Polarization?
Polarization is essentially how the satellite sends signals to your dish. Think of it as two separate signal pathways or directions – one for vertical signals and the other for horizontal signals. The LNB (signal receiver) on your dish is designed to pick up both types of signals so that you can access all your DSTV channels. When polarization is affected, either by a misalignment, connection issue, or incorrect settings, your LNB might struggle to pick up one group of channels, causing errors like E48 on specific channels while others remain unaffected.

By checking certain channels like 191 and 194 as a quick diagnostic step, you’ll often be able to tell if the issue is with the signal strength and quality for one group of channels or if all channels are affected. For example, DSTV Channel 191 is vertical while Channel 194 is horizontal. If Channel 191 is getting a signal while Channel 194 is not, that means horizontal channels are affected. Likewise, if Channel 191 loses a signal while Channel 194 plays properly, it means that the vertical channels are the ones affected. Here’s a step-by-step guide to identify and resolve the specific cause of the E48-32 error on individual channels, so you can regain a clear and reliable DSTV signal.

How to Fix DSTV Error E48-32 on Some Channels: Troubleshooting Steps

1. Check Signal Strength and Quality on Affected Channels

To check the signal strength and quality on a specific, start by navigating to the channel you want, for example by pressing the channel number on the DSTV remote control. Navigate to the Help Menu in your DSTV menu by pressing the Help button on your DSTV Remote control. Next, scroll to General Information. Then use the arrow buttons to select Tuner Status and press OK. If the signal strength and quality on problematic channels are below 50%, these channels are getting a weak signal.
If signal levels are low on only these channels, this may suggest an issue with the specific frequency range, potentially indicating interference, cable damage, or dish misalignment.

2. Inspect the LNB and Cabling Connections

The LNB (Low-Noise Block downconverter) is critical for channel stability and can often be the source of signal loss on certain channels if misaligned or damaged.
Inspect connections between the dish, LNB, and decoder for any loosened or damaged cables. Tighten loose connectors and replace worn cables to prevent signal dropouts.

3. Adjust the Skew of the LNB

Correctly adjusting the skew of your LNB is essential, particularly for horizontal channels with higher signal requirements.
When positioning the LNB skew, remember that the side with the LNB cover or lid should face the dish, while the side with the ports should generally point to your left side (where your heart is), if you’re standing in the same direction as the dish.
Slowly rotate the LNB clockwise or counterclockwise, checking the signal quality on affected channels as you go. Correct skew alignment is especially important if you experience signal loss primarily on horizontal channels.

4. Identify and Configure DSTV Smart Switches

In single-user setups or smaller configurations with multiple viewing points, a DSTV smart switch may be installed to help manage and split signals. These smart switches often have dual inputs (horizontal and vertical), which distribute signals separately.
Check that the smart switch is compatible with your DSTV setup, and inspect all cable connections, ensuring that both the horizontal and vertical inputs are secure. If you continue to experience issues, consider consulting a professional technician, as the smart switch’s configuration may need adjusting to stabilize signals on both polarization types.

5. Troubleshooting Communal Multiswitch Installations

In communal setups where a single dish serves multiple households, multiswitches are used to distribute the satellite signal from one dish to multiple apartments or dwellings. Each multiswitch has specific input ports to manage both horizontal and vertical signals, directing them to multiple outputs.
If some channels are unavailable in a communal setup, check that all cables are securely connected to the correct input and output ports on the multiswitch, particularly the horizontal and vertical inputs from the LNB.
In such complex installations, any issues with horizontal or vertical input ports, cabling, or multiswitch settings may lead to signal loss on specific channels. Due to the complexity of communal installations, it’s generally advisable to have a highly experienced technician handle any adjustments or repairs to multiswitch systems to ensure signal stability for all connected households.

6. Fine-Tune Satellite Dish Alignment

Minor dish misalignments can cause signal loss on specific channels, even when most channels function normally. Here’s how to access and use the tuner status screen to help fine-tune your dish alignment:
1. Press the Help button on your DSTV remote control.
2. Use the arrow buttons to navigate to General Information and press OK.
3. Navigate to Tuner Status to see the current signal quality and strength.
4. Stand behind the dish and gently nudge it left to right, then up and down, checking if the signal quality improves on the tuner status screen.
If DIY adjustments don’t resolve the E48 error, it’s wise to call a professional for precise dish alignment to improve signal on the targeted channels.

7. Reduce Potential Interference

Signal interference can be a major cause of the E48 error on specific channels. Here are common sources of interference and how to address them:

LTE Interference: LTE signals from nearby cell towers can interfere with your DSTV signal, especially on certain channels. LTE filters can be installed to reduce interference and improve signal quality.
Obstacles in the Dish’s Path: Physical obstructions can also disrupt the satellite signal. Large trees, high-rise buildings, or even sagging branches near the dish’s line of sight can weaken the signal, causing errors on specific channels. High walls too close to the dish might also disrupt the signal path.
- If you notice any such obstacles blocking the dish, try to remove or trim them if possible. If removing the obstacle isn’t feasible, consider contacting Keystone Systems for expert dish realignment or relocation to ensure the dish has a clear line of sight to the satellite.

8. Contact Keystone System if the Issue Persists

If you’ve tried all the steps and still could not fix DSTV Error E48-32 on certain channels yourself, chat with us or call us for additional troubleshooting or service checks. Keystone Systems DSTV technicians can confirm if there’s an external service issue or help guide you with further diagnostic steps for your specific setup.

By following this guide, you should be able to resolve signal loss on individual channels and troubleshoot the DSTV E48 error effectively. If you need additional help or a professional diagnosis, feel free to reach out to our expert DSTV installers at Keystone Systems for a precise and hassle-free solution. Enjoy seamless viewing on all your DSTV channels!