Why do lines appear on my screen when I connect my HD Digital Box to my TV with a Scart lead?

Make sure you connect your HD Digital Box to your HD ready TV using a HDMI lead.

Will I need an aerial upgrade?

No, Freesat is not delivered through your aerial but via a satellite dish, so no need for aerial upgrades, but you will need a satellite dish.

Do I need a HD-ready television to watch high definition programmes?

You need a HD-Ready television and a HD Digital Box in order to view high definition programmes in high definition. You will also need to connect the two together using a HDMI lead.

In which direction should my satellite dish be positioned?

Your satellite dish should be fitted on a South facing wall in the direction of 28.2° East of South.

Can I connect more than one Freesat receiver to my satellite dish?

Yes you can. You will need to have an LNB fitted that has more than one connection. LNB’s typically have 1, 2, 4 or 8 connections. You will need one connection to the LNB for each Freesat Digital Box.

Can I use the satellite dish that is already at my property?

Maybe. We recommend that your existing installation receives a full ‘health check’ from a qualified installer. Your retailer will be able to advise you about this when purchasing your Freesat Digital Box.

Why do I have to enter my postcode in the first time setup?

This will enable you in the near future to receive programmes from your local region. For example the local news and weather.

What equipment do I need so that I can receive Freesat HD channels?

You will need a Freesat HD receiver with an installation package, a HD Ready TV with an available HDMI input, and a HDMI cable.

How do I do a ‘First Time Install’ again?

Press the ‘MENU’ button on your remote control, and choose option ‘2’. Select ‘ First Time Install’ and press the ‘OK’ button.

How do I look for new system software?

Press the ‘MENU’ button on your remote control, and choose option ‘2’. Select ‘Receiver Upgrade’ and press the ‘OK’ button.

How do I find out system information about my Freesat receiver?

Press the ‘MENU’ button on your remote control, and choose option ‘0’. It is helpful to have this information available when contacting us.

How do I change the default ‘Audio Language’?

Press the ‘MENU’ button on your remote control, and choose option ‘2’. Select ‘ Audio Language’. The options are English, Welsh and Gaelic.

Can I use a SCART cable with my HD receiver?

Yes, but you will not be sending a high definition signal to your TV. To get the very best out of your HD receiver you will need to connect it to your HD Ready TV using a HDMI cable.

Can I connect my HD Freesat receiver to my TV using a SCART and a HDMI cable at the same time?

No. If both cables are connected you may experience some interference.

Can I use my existing dish for Freesat?

It should be possible to use your existing dish, but it is advisable to check with a retailer before you purchase your Freesat box. It is also a good idea to check the condition of your dish as old equipment could affect the picture and sound quality which is especially important if you want to take full advantage of the High Definition (HD) and the Dolby 5.1 surround

These are some simple checks you can do yourself. If you are worried about climbing a ladder you could have a professional check it out for you, most independent installers will be able to offer you this service.

1. Check to see if your dish is sagging, squinting or bent. Take a quick look across the diameter of the dish from edge to edge, they should line up (i.e. if you put your dish face down on the floor would it lie flat?) if your dish is out of shape it may be a sign that it is a good time to replace it. Have a look to see that the bracket is still mounted securely to the wall and the dish to the bracket. A poorly mounted dish can make for a poor signal especially in bad weather.

2. Check for a dented dish. Perforated metal dishes or mesh dishes are easy to bend or dent. This not only reduces the signal gathering ability of the dish from the intended satellite, but also increases the interference which will be received from adjacent satellites. If the dent cannot be corrected, it may be time to buy a new satellite dish.

3. Check the feed element. This is the part that the dish focuses the signal onto. Make sure that the arm that supports it doesn’t sag or wobble and that the LNB (the business part of the antenna) is secure to the arm.

4. Inspect all your cables from your dish to your box. Check for splits or cracks in the cable outer, any exposed or corroded wire will deteriorate signal quality. Pay attention to any connectors; make sure they are all attached correctly. If your system was installed a long time ago it might be worth considering having the cabling replaced.

If you moved into a house with a dish already fitted it’s definitely worth having a look at some of these basic maintenance tips, also try and establish what dish you have. Cheap European or second-hand dishes that weren’t installed by a professional may not be giving you the best signal.

If you are unsure about any of the above hints and tips you could try contacting a local independent installer or retailer, who will be happy to help you get the best from your satellite system.