FAQ
TL;DR: Want nc+ and Cyfrowy Polsat on one dish while still recording 3 programs? The Ultrabox supports "full configuration using one antenna cable - unicable." [Elektroda, jk_34, post #17314025]
Why it matters: If you rent or can’t run new cables, this guide shows how to combine nc+ Ultrabox 4K and Cyfrowy Polsat on one dish without losing PVR features.
Quick Facts
- Unicable (SCR/dCSS) supports up to 32 user bands over a single coax (EN50607/Unicable II). "Inverto Unicable II Technology"
- Ultrabox 4K has a one-cable Unicable "full configuration" mode; multi-recording depends on setup. [Elektroda, jk_34, post #17314025]
- Wire the Unicable port to Ultrabox and the legacy port to Polsat; no extra cables needed. [Elektroda, andpol 33, #17313983]
- A monoblock/ZEZ is for Hot Bird + Astra; for one satellite use quad or Unicable. [Elektroda, sanfran, post #17313899]
- Two LNBs cannot target the same orbital slot on one dish; that won’t work. [Elektroda, sanfran, post #17313854]
How do I add Cyfrowy Polsat without running more cables?
Use a Unicable LNB that has one Unicable (SCR/dCSS) port and one legacy port. Connect the Unicable port to the nc+ Ultrabox 4K. Connect the legacy port to the Cyfrowy Polsat decoder. You keep Ultrabox functionality and avoid pulling new cables. [Elektroda, andpol 33, #17313983]
Which LNB should I buy for one Hot Bird dish and two decoders?
For a single satellite, choose either a quad LNB (four independent outputs) or a Unicable LNB. Do not use a monoblock/ZEZ, which is for two satellites (Hot Bird + Astra). "You need to have four outputs for hotbird." [Elektroda, sanfran, post #17313899]
Can I still record three channels on nc+ Ultrabox 4K with one cable?
Yes. The Ultrabox offers a Unicable one-cable mode noted as "full configuration." Multi-recording (up to three programs) depends on the configuration details. Connect the feed to the SAT1/V input as indicated. Configure Unicable user bands in the menu. [Elektroda, jk_34, post #17314025]
Can I mount two LNBs for Hot Bird on one dish to avoid switching?
No. Two LNBs cannot both view the same orbital slot from one reflector with correct geometry. Use a quad or Unicable LNB instead to add outputs or single-cable capability. [Elektroda, sanfran, post #17313854]
Does a quad or octo LNB force me to use a bigger dish?
No. Converter type does not set required dish size; signal footprint and link margin do. Focus on LNB quality and dish alignment. As one expert put it, “Only the quality of the converter is important.” [Elektroda, andpol 33, #17313983]
Is a wideband LNB the same as Unicable?
No. "Like wideband it’s not unicable." Wideband provides separate full-band H/V outputs, while Unicable uses channelized user bands over one coax. Verify your hardware supports the exact technology before buying. [Elektroda, andpol 33, #17314031]
Will a wideband LNB work with typical nc+/Polsat set-top boxes?
Not directly. Wideband LNBs require a compatible dCSS/Unicable II multiswitch or suitable FBC tuner path. Standard receivers expect universal or Unicable signals. Connect a wideband LNB straight to a typical STB and you’ll likely get no signal. "Inverto Wideband LNB – Product Page"
Will VU+ Solo 4K or Ultimo 4K let me use both nc+ and Polsat on one box?
You’d need two CI/CI+ modules (one per platform). VU+ Solo 4K has one CI slot, so it’s out. Ultimo 4K has two CI slots, but module restrictions limit multi-channel recording. “Recording of several channels is out because of module restrictions.” [Elektroda, andpol 33, #17314070]
How do I wire a Unicable LNB for two decoders?
- Fit a Unicable LNB that offers one Unicable output and one legacy output.
- Connect the Unicable output to the nc+ Ultrabox 4K input.
- Connect the legacy output to the Cyfrowy Polsat decoder. That’s it—no new cables needed. [Elektroda, andpol 33, #17313983]
How do I set the nc+ Ultrabox 4K to Unicable mode?
Enter the tuner setup and select Unicable/SCR as the LNB type. Assign the required user bands, then connect the cable to SAT1/V. As the manual notes, it supports a "full configuration" using one antenna cable. [Elektroda, jk_34, post #17314025]
Do I need a "4K LNB" for UHD channels?
No. LNBs convert RF; they don’t care about video resolution. There’s no such thing as a dedicated HD/4K LNB. What matters is a quality universal or Unicable LNB, correct dish size, and alignment. "SatCure: There is no such thing as an HD LNB"
What dish size makes sense in northern Sweden for Hot Bird 13E?
Check the HOTBIRD coverage map for your location’s EIRP. In northern Sweden, a larger dish improves rain margin; typical choices are around 90–120 cm. Align carefully and use a quality LNB to stabilize weaker signals. "Eutelsat HOTBIRD Footprints"
Can I split one LNB output to two decoders with a passive splitter?
No. Satellite tuners control the LNB with voltage and tone. A passive splitter causes conflicts, loss of control, and signal failure. Use separate LNB outputs, a multiswitch, or Unicable instead. "SatCure: Why you cannot split a satellite feed"
How many tuners can Unicable support, and which standard should I look for?
Unicable I (EN50494) commonly offers up to 8 user bands. Unicable II/dCSS (EN50607) supports up to 32 user bands on one coax. For multi-tuner PVRs and expansion, choose Unicable II-capable LNBs or multiswitches. "Inverto Unicable II Technology"
