If your motorhome satellite TV system has suddenly stopped working, you’re not alone. The Optus D2 satellite, one of the key satellites used by many Freeview and Sky TV services in New Zealand, has now been retired.
This affects a wide range of TV satellite dishes for caravans, motorhomes, and RVs across the country. We’re here to help get you back up and running.
Understanding Satellite TV Systems
Satellite TV systems are designed to provide reliable TV reception to caravans, motorhomes, and other mobile vehicles, ensuring you stay connected to your favorite shows no matter where you travel. A typical satellite TV system consists of a satellite dish, a satellite receiver, and a TV with a built-in satellite receiver (DVB-S2) or a separate satellite receiver.
The satellite dish plays a crucial role by receiving TV signals from a satellite orbiting Earth. These signals are then sent to the satellite receiver, which converts them into a format that can be displayed on your TV. This setup is ideal for mobile users who need consistent TV reception while on the move.
One key factor for reliable TV reception is the line of sight between the satellite dish and the satellite. Any obstacles, such as trees or buildings, can disrupt the signal. Therefore, it’s essential to position your dish correctly to avoid any interference.
Satellite TV systems come in various styles to suit different budgets and travelling requirements. Roof-mounted satellite dishes are a popular choice for many motorhomes and caravans, offering a permanent and convenient solution. For those who prefer flexibility, portable satellite dishes are also available.
Fully automatic satellite systems simplify the installation and operation process. These advanced systems use GPS and motorized LNB skew to ensure optimal signal reception, providing crystal-clear TV reception anywhere in the country. With these options, staying connected while travelling has never been easier.
Choosing the Right Equipment
Choosing the right equipment for your satellite TV system is crucial to ensure reliable and high-quality TV reception. The first step is selecting a suitable satellite dish, which comes in various sizes and styles to suit different budgets and travelling requirements.
A roof-mounted satellite dish is a popular option for caravans and motorhomes, offering a permanent and hassle-free solution. For those who travel less frequently or prefer flexibility, portable satellite dishes are ideal. These can be set up and taken down as needed, making them perfect for occasional use.
Next, you’ll need a satellite receiver, which converts the TV signals from the satellite dish into a format that can be displayed on your TV. You can opt for a TV with a built-in satellite receiver (DVB-S2) or a separate satellite receiver, such as the SKYBOX M3S model, to ensure compatibility with your system.
It’s also essential to consider the LNB (Low Noise Blocker) and the cable required to connect the satellite dish to the satellite receiver. The LNB is responsible for amplifying the signal received by the dish, ensuring clear and reliable TV reception.
When planning your setup, take into account the cost of the equipment and installation, as well as your budget and travelling requirements. Consulting with a professional installer or a reputable supplier can help ensure that you choose the right equipment and that it is installed correctly. This way, you can enjoy uninterrupted TV reception wherever your travels take you.
How We Can Help
Motorhome Solar offers support for most major brands of satellite TV for RVs, including realignment, firmware updates, and replacements, ensuring that any issues are quickly sorted. We also assist with TV retuning when needed.
Southern Cross (RSE)
- These dishes cannot be updated and must be replaced.
- We’re offering a 15% discount on full removal and installation.
Kiwisat (Apollo)
- Dishes can be reconfigured with the latest software.
- Labour charges apply (typically 30 minutes to 1 hour).
NZ Sat (Camec)
- No changes needed to the dish.
- Some TVs may require a retune (Blind Scan).
- Older TVs without a DVB-S2 tuner may need upgrading.
SamY (OYSTER)
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If you’re using a Samy (Oyster) automatic satellite dish, support is limited at this time.
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Motorhome Solar are not currently servicing these units.
- If your SamY (Oyster) satellite dish was installed by Zion Motorhomes, please contact Zion directly for support.
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Zion Motorhomes has advised that while they can support their own customers, but have limited capacity outside of that. If your unit was not originally supplied by Zion, you may need to contact Digital Import NZ, who are assisting the wider public with this system.
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We’ll continue to share updates if a universal fix becomes available.
Majestic (IDU)
- Some Majestic satellite systems can be updated, but not all.
- If your dish has a single cable running between the dish and control box (IDU), it may be suitable for an update.
- Systems with two cables are not updateable.
- If you’re unsure which type you have, we can check this for you. We work with Equal Electronics in Te Atatu for these updates. Please note that charges apply, and bookings are essential.
Other Things to Know
Whether you’re parked up or out on the road, we can help get your satellite TV sorted. Our team knows the common systems used in Kiwi motorhomes and caravans, and we’ll get you back up and running quickly.
- All services are chargeable, but we aim to make the process as easy and efficient as possible. Fixes usually take 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- Channel re-ordering is optional and incurs an extra cost.
- Bookings are essential due to high demand.
Need Help With Your Satellite?
Call us on 07 849 0801 or email us to sort your satellite setup.