What size satellite dish do I need for DStv?

For standard HD reception, an 80cm dish is recommended. A 60cm dish only supports SD (standard definition) viewing and is not suitable for HD decoders. In coastal areas or regions with weak signal, a 90cm or larger dish may be required. For Explora Ultra, an 80cm dish with Smart LNB is mandatory.

Which satellite does DStv use in South Africa?

DStv uses Intelsat 20 (IS-20) satellite positioned at 68.5° East. Your dish must be precisely aligned to this satellite for optimal signal reception. Professional installers use signal meters to achieve 85%+ signal strength and 80%+ quality.

What is a Smart LNB and do I need one?

A Smart LNB (Low Noise Block) is required for DStv Explora and Explora Ultra decoders. It uses a single cable to carry multiple signals, allowing features like recording while watching another channel. Standard decoders can use Single, Twin, or Quad LNBs depending on your Extra View setup.

Why is my DStv signal weak during rain?

This is called 'rain fade' and affects Ku-band satellite signals. Heavy rain, thick clouds, or storms can temporarily reduce signal strength. A larger dish (90cm or 120cm) provides better rain fade resistance. Proper dish alignment and quality cabling also help minimize signal loss.

How long does satellite dish installation take?

A standard satellite dish installation takes 1-3 hours. This includes mounting the dish, installing the LNB, routing cables, and aligning for optimal signal. Complex installations with multiple access points, roof mounting, or difficult cable runs may take 4-6 hours.

Can I install a DStv dish myself?

While DIY installation is possible, professional installation is recommended. Precise alignment to the IS-20 satellite requires specialist equipment. Incorrect installation can result in poor signal, damage to property, or safety hazards. Accredited installers also provide workmanship warranties.

Where should I mount my satellite dish?

The dish needs a clear line of sight to the north (where IS-20 satellite is positioned). It can be mounted on a wall, roof, or pole. Avoid locations with obstructions like trees, buildings, or overhead cables. A north-facing wall or roof edge is often ideal.

What cable is used for DStv installation?

RG6 coaxial cable is the standard for DStv installations. It provides low signal loss over long distances and is suitable for HD and 4K signals. The cable should be weatherproofed where it enters the building and properly terminated with F-type connectors.

How do I know if my dish needs realignment?

Signs your dish needs realignment include: frequent signal loss, pixelation on screen, error messages like E16 or E48, signal dropping during mild weather, or gradual degradation over time. Strong winds, building work, or accidental bumps can shift alignment.

Can one dish supply multiple TVs?

Yes, with the right LNB. A Twin LNB supports 2 decoders, a Quad LNB supports 4 decoders, and a Smart LNB (with multiswitch) can support multiple Explora decoders. Each decoder requires its own cable run from the LNB. This is called an Extra View setup.

Accredited MultiChoice Installers

DStv Satellite Dish Installation

Professional Dish Mounting & Signal Alignment

Get crystal-clear DStv reception with professional satellite dish installation. Our accredited technicians ensure precise alignment to the IS-20 satellite for optimal signal strength and quality.

3-Month Warranty

Same Day Service

4.6/5 Rating

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68.5°E

Satellite Position

Intelsat 20 (IS-20)

85%+

Target Signal

Strength required

120km/h

Wind Rating

When properly installed

1-3hrs

Install Time

Standard installation

Satellite Dish Size Guide

Choosing the right dish size ensures optimal signal reception. Our installers will recommend the best size for your location.

60cm

Basic Dish

Entry-level dish for SD viewing only

Suitable For

Standard Definition only
Budget installations
Strong signal areas

Not Ideal For

HD decoders
Explora decoders
Weak signal areas

RECOMMENDED

80cm

Standard HD Dish

Recommended for most HD installations

Suitable For

HD decoders (HD 4, 5, 6)
Explora & Explora Ultra
Most areas in South Africa
Multi-room setups

Not Ideal For

Severe coastal areas
Extreme weather regions

90cm

Enhanced Dish

For coastal & weak signal areas

Suitable For

Coastal regions
Weak signal areas
Better rain fade resistance
All decoder types

120cm

Maximum Reception

For extreme signal challenges

Suitable For

Very weak signal areas
Maximum rain fade resistance
Remote locations
Commercial installations

Planning to install a DStv Explora Ultra? You'll need an 80cm dish with Smart LNB.

Learn about Explora Ultra installation requirements

LNB Types Explained

The LNB (Low Noise Block) is the device at the end of the dish arm that receives satellite signals. Different LNB types support different configurations.

Single LNB

For one decoder connection

1 decoder(s)

Twin LNB

For two decoder connections

2 decoder(s)

Quad LNB

For four decoder connections

4 decoder(s)

Smart LNB

Required for Explora decoders

Multiple (via single cable) decoder(s)

Need multiple TVs on one subscription?

Explore Extra View multi-room setup

Signal Requirements

Signal Strength Target85%+

Signal Quality Target80%+

Weather Considerations

Rain Fade

Heavy rain can temporarily reduce signal. Larger dishes help mitigate this.

Wind Loading

Proper mounting withstands winds up to 120 km/h.

Professional Installation Process

Our accredited installers follow a systematic process to ensure optimal dish placement and signal quality.

Site Survey

We assess your property for optimal dish placement with clear line of sight to the north.

Mount Installation

Secure mounting on wall, roof, or pole - built to withstand winds up to 120 km/h.

Dish & LNB Setup

Assemble dish and install the correct LNB type for your decoder requirements.

Cable Routing

Professional RG6 coaxial cable installation with weatherproof connections.

Signal Alignment

Precision alignment to Intelsat 20 satellite for 85%+ signal strength.

Testing & Handover

Full system test and demonstration of your DStv service.

About Intelsat 20 (IS-20)

DStv broadcasts from the Intelsat 20 satellite, positioned at 68.5° East longitude. This satellite covers the entire African continent, providing reliable Ku-band signals for satellite TV reception.

Position: 68.5° East
Frequency: Ku-band (10.7-12.75 GHz)
Cable: RG6 Coaxial recommended

Visit DStv Self Service Portal

Common Signal Issues?

If you're experiencing signal problems like E16, E48, or E30 errors, pixelation, or complete signal loss, our technicians can diagnose and resolve the issue.

Learn about our repair services

Satellite Dish Installation Options

Choose the option that suits your needs. Contact us for a personalised quote.

Dish Replacement

Replace damaged or upgrade dish

From R800*Price varies by size

New satellite dish
Professional mounting
Signal alignment
LNB not included

Get Quote

Full Installation

Everything included

From R1,500*Price subject to change

80cm Satellite Dish
LNB included
Professional mounting
Cable routing (up to 20m)
Signal optimization
Workmanship warranty

Get Quote

Dish Realignment

Fix signal issues

From R450*Call-out fee may apply

Signal diagnosis
Dish realignment
Connection check
Signal optimization

Get Quote

Prices are estimates and may vary based on your location, dish size, and installation complexity. Contact us for an accurate quote. Equipment prices are subject to change.

Satellite Dish Installation Across South Africa

Our accredited installers service all 9 provinces. Select your province to find local installation services.

Eastern Cape Free State Gauteng KwaZulu-Natal Limpopo Mpumalanga Northern Cape North West Western Cape

Ready for Crystal Clear DStv Reception?

Book your professional satellite dish installation today

Our accredited installers use professional signal meters to ensure optimal dish alignment. All installations include a workmanship warranty. Same-day service available in most areas.

Call 077 454 4032 WhatsApp Quote

FAQ

Common questions about DStv satellite dish installation, alignment, and maintenance.

Can't find what you're looking for? Contact our team directly for personalized assistance with your satellite dish installation.

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Related Services

Explore our other professional DStv installation services.

DStv Satellite Dish Installation

Satellite Dish Size Guide

Basic Dish

Standard HD Dish

Enhanced Dish

Maximum Reception

LNB Types Explained

Single LNB

Twin LNB

Quad LNB

Smart LNB

Signal Requirements

Weather Considerations

Professional Installation Process

Site Survey

Mount Installation

Dish & LNB Setup

Cable Routing

Signal Alignment

Testing & Handover

About Intelsat 20 (IS-20)

Common Signal Issues?

Satellite Dish Installation Options

Dish Replacement

Full Installation

Dish Realignment

Satellite Dish Installation Across South Africa

Ready for Crystal Clear DStv Reception?

FAQ

Related Services

DStv Explora Ultra

DStv Explora

Extra View Setup

Decoder Repairs