FAQ
TL;DR: For Cyfrowy Polsat on Hot Bird, target MER ≥13 dB and 80–100% quality; “MER is to be at 13 min.” [Elektroda, 1098678, post #16909526]
Why it matters: This FAQ helps Polsat users fix pixelation/freezes by dialing in dish, LNB, and meter settings.
Quick Facts
- Satellite: aim the dish at Hot Bird for Cyfrowy Polsat reception. [Elektroda, 1098678, post #16909526]
- Practical quality target: on a 90 cm dish, expect 100% on most channels. [Elektroda, andpol 33, post #17889281]
- MER benchmarks: clear sky often shows about 14–15 dB on many frequencies. [Elektroda, _kli_, post #16909751]
- Meter budget: worthwhile satellite meter starts around PLN 700. [Elektroda, 1098678, post #16909623]
- Quick check channels: Polsat HD, TVP1 HD, TVN HD, BBC Brit. [Elektroda, Krzychu7, post #16909529]
Which satellite should I point the antenna at for Cyfrowy Polsat?
Point the dish at Hot Bird to receive Cyfrowy Polsat services. Align azimuth and elevation for Hot Bird, then fine‑tune skew. Use a meter or your decoder’s signal screen while adjusting. This ensures consistent lock across Polsat transponders. [Elektroda, 1098678, post #16909526]
What signal levels are considered good for stable HD viewing?
Aim for MER at least 13 dB and quality in the 80–100% range. In clear weather, many frequencies show about 14–15 dB MER. Higher MER and quality reduce errors and prevent freezes. Treat strength as secondary to quality. [Elektroda, kli, post #16909751]
Which channels should I use to check alignment on a Polsat set‑top box?
Use Polsat HD, TVP1 HD, TVN HD, and BBC Brit to verify quality. These services let you confirm stability across different transponders. Watch for steady quality without swings. If quality dips below mid‑range, refine alignment. [Elektroda, Krzychu7, post #16909529]
My 90 cm dish isn’t hitting 100% quality—what does that indicate?
It indicates misalignment or installation issues. A 90 cm dish should deliver 100% quality on most channels when set correctly. “On a 90 cm antenna should be 100% quality on most channels.” Re‑aim and fine‑tune the LNB skew. [Elektroda, andpol 33, post #17889281]
Is 50–60% quality enough to watch?
It works as a minimum, but expect occasional glitches. Use it only to get a picture, then keep optimizing. For stable HD, push quality higher and confirm MER is comfortably above the threshold. [Elektroda, Krzychu7, post #16909529]
Do I really need a satellite meter, and what should I spend?
A meter makes precise alignment faster and more reliable. Budget at least PLN 700 for a worthwhile unit. Cheaper tools can help, but they trade accuracy and features. Consider it an investment in stability. [Elektroda, 1098678, post #16909623]
Can I align without a pro meter?
Yes. Use the decoder’s signal menu and a slow, methodical approach. Move the dish in tiny steps and pause for readings. This trial‑and‑error method works if you stay patient and precise. [Elektroda, markostka, post #17898482]
Is a DVB‑T meter like TZU 22 suitable for satellite alignment?
No. That pointer is for terrestrial TV, not satellite. Use a satellite‑capable meter or your decoder’s signal screen. Mixing tools causes misreads and wasted time. [Elektroda, kli, post #16909751]
How do I view detailed signal parameters on a Cyfrowy Polsat decoder?
Hold the red button on the remote to display full signal parameters. Use that screen while adjusting the dish and LNB. It provides immediate feedback on quality. [Elektroda, LeDy, post #16911026]
TVP Sport HD freezes while others work—what should I check?
Check MER and quality. Borderline MER around 12 dB and mid strength often means errors and freezes. Raise quality toward 100% by refining aim and skew. Confirm stability on multiple HD channels. [Elektroda, LeDy, post #17889359]
Does dish size matter for headroom in poor weather?
Yes. A well‑aligned 90 cm dish offers strong quality and margin. If quality isn’t near 100%, alignment or hardware needs attention, not just size. [Elektroda, andpol 33, post #17889281]
Is my QUAD LNB okay for Cyfrowy Polsat?
Yes. Users successfully operate a QUAD converter with Polsat; alignment and quality are the main issues. Focus on Hot Bird pointing, LNB skew, and cable integrity. [Elektroda, szymon189, post #16909520]
Could the dish or hardware itself be the problem?
Yes. The antenna’s condition and build affect achievable quality. If alignment seems right but readings stay low, inspect dish shape, mount rigidity, and LNB seating. Replace damaged parts. [Elektroda, 1098678, post #16909597]
Are low‑cost sat finders like Schwaiger SF9002 usable?
They can help, but expectations vary. Installers use what they bought and report mixed results. If precision matters, a mid‑range meter is the safer choice. [Elektroda, 1098678, post #16909685]
What quick 3‑step method should I follow to fine‑tune alignment?
- Lock onto Hot Bird, then tighten bolts lightly.
- Nudge azimuth/elevation in tiny steps, maximizing quality and MER.
- Rotate LNB a few degrees each way to peak quality, then fully tighten. [Elektroda, 1098678, post #16909526]
