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The situation after replacing the set-top box with a new wifi premium box +

krzysztofh 7920 13
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Treść została przetłumaczona polish » english Zobacz oryginalną wersję tematu
  • #1 16882988
    krzysztofh
    Level 29  
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    I would like to advise you on what can be done to improve the situation.

    I have had NC + for years and I recently extended my contract and replaced the old set-top box with a new wifi premium box +, although I resisted the replacement for a long time.
    Before replacing the decoder with the old one, I had the strength parameters about 85-90 and quality 78-82 on both antennas.
    After replacing without touching anything strength is 99 and quality varies from 51 to 55.
    Would it show that the new decoder is less sensitive or what?
    The antenna installation is built on a 100cm parabolic platter, two LNBs mounted in the QUATRO Inverto BLACK Ultra 0.2dB type squint system and the MS-952 Terra 9-input 4-output multiswitch and 4 end subscriber sockets.
    I do not remember how the previous decoder was configured, but in the new one I tried to set the antennas with Diseqc. Then I have a choice of LNB1 - LNB4. Unfortunately, in this configuration, the tuner does not want to download channels, considering that the antennas are incorrectly configured. It is only possible to configure the antennas in the "tone burst" option. Then LNB1 and LNB2 are available.
    According to the instructions, the decoder works with diseqc 2.1, and the multiswitch is 2.0, so it shouldn't be a problem as I think. Additionally, the multiswitch has a tone burst option.
    But regardless of the settings there is no signal from the Astra, so the channels end at about 650 (I don't remember exactly). In the old decoder, the reception from the Astra was trouble-free and there were about 900 channels.
    What can be done about it.
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  • #2 16883394
    andpol 33
    Level 39  
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    As for the signal quality, this is normal. He shows 20-25% less. LNB1-HB, LNB2-astra and it should work.
  • #3 16883454
    krzysztofh
    Level 29  
    Posts: 1557
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    OK, but the astra doesn't work. I tried on LNB2 and with the strength of about 98 the quality 0 and in this situation the decoder does not download channels, so I have to set the lack of the Astra to continue.
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  • #4 16883565
    LeDy
    Level 43  
    Posts: 19029
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    View manually search transponder with Astra 19.2 ° E 11186V. It continues.
  • #5 16883628
    krzysztofh
    Level 29  
    Posts: 1557
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    When I get home I'll try, but I don't know how.
    The decoder does not allow to save the configuration when it fails to pass the antenna configuration, and in the case of the astra it detects nothing. If I leave it like that, I don't allow anything else to be done. If I set astra = none, the configuration is saved, but only for HotBird.
    All in all, I do not remember what is there on the Astra and whether it is worth watching, because the time is short recently, but since the installation has two LNBs, it makes no sense to turn off one satellite.
    I also do not know why the decoder does not accept the configuration in the "with DiseqC" option.
    I read somewhere on the net that NC + provides decoders with inefficient power supplies and that is why there are such problems with LNB control, although I do not know if this is true.
  • #6 16883948
    andpol 33
    Level 39  
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    Since you have zero quality on the Astra, i.e. there is a problem with the antenna, specifically with a squint on the Astra.

    Added after 2 [minutes]:

    LeDy wrote:
    View manually search transponder with Astra 19.2 ° E 11186V. It continues.

    Can you tell how to do it on this decoder?
  • #7 16884025
    krzysztofh
    Level 29  
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    LeDy wrote:
    View manually search transponder with Astra 19.2 ° E 11186V. It continues.


    I made another approach to antenna configuration. Unfortunately, I can't see how to manually search for channels.
    The procedure in this decoder is simple and comes down to choosing for each of the antennas and for HotBird and Astra to define communication between the decoder and LNB.
    In the case of asters, the quality is zero and leaving this setting will make it impossible to save the settings. To access Hotbirg's channels, you must set asters to none.
    For the sake of clarity, I will repeat what I wrote in the first post. When replacing the decoder, the antenna installation was not moved, which means that both the antenna and the converters remained unchanged. Before replacing on the old decoder, channels from asters were available. I will not repeat myself about the signal quality.
  • #8 16884031
    andpol 33
    Level 39  
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    You write yourself that you haven't watched asters for a long time. Maybe something just broke. Check if the strabismus does not move or the converter lid is not cracked.
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  • #9 16884036
    LeDy
    Level 43  
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    I do not know. When I have access, I will see it.
  • #10 16884042
    andpol 33
    Level 39  
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    LeDy wrote:
    I do not know. When I have access, I will see it.

    Then I'll tell you. No way. The list of channels is imposed by the operator and it is not possible to program anything manually.
    Unless some new soft has been released in the days, but I don't know anything about it.
  • #11 16884252
    krzysztofh
    Level 29  
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    andpol 33 wrote:
    You write yourself that you haven't watched asters for a long time. Maybe something just broke. Check if the strabismus does not move or the converter lid is not cracked.

    Installation on the roof is fine. Converters are completely new because they were replaced last year, just like the multiswitch.
    I did not actually watch specific astra channels, but shortly before the exchange I had over 900 channels. I know, because when the decoder was set to TVN, i.e. the first channel, moving the remote control button backwards set the last channel and it was over 900, I do not remember exactly. So the astra was there.
    I do not know if this old decoder had greater sensitivity and it caught astra, because it catches 48 to 60% of the quality on Hotbird channels.
  • Helpful post
    #12 16884283
    andpol 33
    Level 39  
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    Just because it was number 900 does not prove that it was Astra. There was Astra at the time of configuring the previous set-top box and a list of Astra channels was downloaded that might not be receiving afterwards, even though they were on the list. You need to connect your decoder to another installation, or connect another decoder to your installation, or call a professional with a meter.
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    #13 16884683
    LeDy
    Level 43  
    Posts: 19029
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    On Polsat, if you go back, it's over a thousand but Hotbird. But the arguments. These were supposed to be Astra 19.2 ° East programs and specific frequencies.
  • #14 16884707
    krzysztofh
    Level 29  
    Posts: 1557
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    OKAY. I think I'm going to visit the roof, but it's cold for now. But by the way there were over 900, even if one of the last or several was not from asters. Now the decoder catches six hundred pairs, because the configuration of the antennas from the astra is turned off, so there is a difference.

Topic summary

✨ The discussion revolves around issues faced after replacing an old set-top box with a new WiFi premium box + from NC +. The user reports a significant drop in signal quality after the replacement, despite an increase in signal strength. The installation includes a 100cm parabolic dish with two LNBs (QUATRO Inverto BLACK Ultra 0.2dB) and a MS-952 Terra multiswitch. The user struggles with configuring the new decoder to recognize both LNBs, particularly the Astra satellite, which shows zero quality. Responses suggest checking the antenna alignment and LNB functionality, as well as the possibility of the new decoder being less sensitive. The user is advised to manually search for transponders and consider professional assistance for troubleshooting.
Generated by the language model.

FAQ

TL;DR: After swapping to WiFi PremiumBox+, quality readings are typically 20–25% lower; “LNB1–HB, LNB2–Astra” is the correct map. [Elektroda, andpol 33, post #16883394]

Why it matters: This FAQ helps NC+ users fix lost Astra channels and confusing signal readings after upgrading to the WiFi PremiumBox+.

Quick Facts

Why did my quality drop after replacing the decoder?

The PremiumBox+ reports lower quality by design. Users see about 20–25% less than older receivers. That does not mean weaker reception. It reflects how the new box scales its meters. Use picture stability and error-free playback as your true test. “He shows 20–25% less.” [Elektroda, andpol 33, post #16883394]

How should I map LNB ports for Hot Bird and Astra on this box?

Set LNB1 to Hot Bird and LNB2 to Astra. This matches how PremiumBox+ expects a typical dual‑sat installation. After mapping, run channel acquisition again. If Astra still shows 0% quality, troubleshoot the antenna or LNB path. “LNB1‑HB, LNB2‑astra and it should work.” [Elektroda, andpol 33, post #16883394]

Why do I have 98–99% strength but 0% quality on Astra?

Strength shows that something is connected; quality shows usable signal. Zero quality with high strength points to the antenna’s Astra “squint” being off, or an Astra LNB issue. Inspect the offset LNB mount and alignment. Realign the Astra LNB if it shifted in wind or service. [Elektroda, andpol 33, post #16883948]

Does the PremiumBox+ work with a DiSEqC 2.0 multiswitch like Terra MS‑952?

Yes, users pair PremiumBox+ (claims DiSEqC 2.1) with DiSEqC 2.0 multiswitches. Interoperability is expected. However, one user reported the box only allowed Tone Burst during setup when Astra quality was zero. Fix signal first, then re‑enable DiSEqC mapping. [Elektroda, krzysztofh, post #16882988]

Can I manually scan a specific Astra transponder (e.g., 19.2°E, 11186 V) on PremiumBox+?

No. The operator firmware imposes a fixed channel list and blocks manual transponder entry. You cannot program or scan individual transponders on this box. “The list of channels is imposed by the operator and it is not possible to program anything manually.” [Elektroda, andpol 33, post #16884042]

The box refuses to save when Astra shows zero quality—how do I proceed?

Temporarily set Astra to None to finish setup and restore Hot Bird channels. Then diagnose the Astra path: cabling, LNB, and alignment. Once Astra has non‑zero quality, rerun installation and map LNB2 to Astra. The box blocks saving if a selected satellite reads zero. [Elektroda, krzysztofh, post #16884025]

What quick physical checks should I do on the dish/LNBs?

Inspect the Astra LNB cap for cracks, water ingress, and corrosion. Wiggle‑test the squint bracket for any movement or drift. Confirm tight F‑connectors and weather boots. Any looseness or moisture can kill Astra quality while Hot Bird still works. Fix hardware before deeper diagnostics. [Elektroda, andpol 33, post #16884031]

How do I isolate whether the fault is my decoder or the installation?

Try this 3‑step check:
  1. Connect your PremiumBox+ to a known‑good installation.
  2. Connect a known‑good decoder to your installation.
  3. If results conflict, call a technician with a meter. This A/B swap quickly reveals whether the issue is box or system. [Elektroda, andpol 33, post #16884283]

Is the PremiumBox+ tuner less sensitive than my old box?

Per user reports, the PremiumBox+ shows lower percentage readings, not necessarily lower sensitivity. Expect about 20–25% lower quality on its meter compared to prior models. Treat the bar as relative, not absolute RF performance. Picture reliability is the key metric. [Elektroda, andpol 33, post #16883394]

Why did my channel count drop from ~900 to ~650 after the swap?

If Astra is disabled during setup, the list will include only Hot Bird services. Earlier, your old box likely loaded Astra during its initial configuration. Channel numbering alone does not prove active Astra reception later. Re‑enable Astra once signal is restored. [Elektroda, andpol 33, post #16884283]

I heard weak power supplies can cause LNB control issues—is that relevant here?

One user mentioned reading that some NC+ boxes have underpowered PSUs that affect LNB control. The thread does not confirm this claim. Focus first on alignment, LNB health, and correct LNB mapping before suspecting PSU faults. Treat PSU talk as unverified context. [Elektroda, krzysztofh, post #16883628]

What satellite should be primary for NC+ on a dual‑LNB setup?

Use Hot Bird as primary on LNB1 and place Astra on LNB2. This aligns with common Polish operator footprints and the PremiumBox+ mapping expectation. After mapping, run the provider’s channel acquisition to build the list. [Elektroda, andpol 33, post #16883394]

What does “squint” mean on a dual‑LNB dish?

“Squint” refers to the offset LNB and bracket that receive a second satellite beside the dish’s main focus. If this bracket shifts or loosens, Astra can show 0% quality while Hot Bird remains fine. Realign the squint to restore Astra. [Elektroda, andpol 33, post #16883948]

What quality numbers are typical on Hot Bird with PremiumBox+?

One user reported 48–60% quality on Hot Bird with the new box, despite stable viewing. That same setup showed 78–82% quality on the old box, and 51–55% after the swap, with strength at 99%. Treat these as relative readings. [Elektroda, krzysztofh, post #16882988]
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