Decoder Software Setup

Firmware, Factory Resets & Decoder Software Help

Decoder software issues cause more 'broken decoder' callouts than actual hardware failures. Stuck-on-boot screens, missing channels, missing EPG, Catch Up not loading and recording failures are all usually software problems — and software fixes are quick.

Book a Same-Day Callout

DSTV decoder firmware update and factory-reset procedure during commissioning

Common Causes

What Usually Causes This Problem

Most cases trace back to one of the following root causes. Our technicians diagnose with a signal meter and the right diagnostic tools on every callout.

Outdated firmware

Decoders ship with the firmware that was current when they were boxed. After months of new content updates, a firmware refresh resolves many quirks.

Corrupted firmware

Power interruptions during automatic updates occasionally corrupt firmware. A USB recovery or factory reset clears this.

Channel scan not done

After firmware update or signal restoration, a full channel scan is sometimes needed to repopulate the channel list.

EPG not loading

The electronic programme guide downloads over the air. Decoders that have been off for weeks may show empty EPG until refreshed.

Smart card not refreshed

After bouquet changes, entitlements need refreshing. We do this live with MultiChoice.

Settings reset needed

Wrong region, language or time-zone settings cause minor display issues. We reset to default during the visit.

Related Services