Why am I missing some channels?

There could be one of several reasons why you might be missing some channels. Firstly, you need to determine what you are missing: this often provides a clue as to the cause of the problem (and, therefore, a solution!). Download this channel grid, and put a cross in the box next to the channel or channels your box isn’t displaying.

 

If you’re only missing a few channels, try looking for it on a different channel number, or between channel 800 and channel 899 for it. Sometimes, a weak signal prevents your set top box from arranging the channels it receives in the right order. Re-scanning your receiver again usually solves this problem.

 

Remember that not all channels are broadcast in all areas. For example, S4C is only available on Freeview in Wales. Have a look at the list on the channel grid download, or check this page for a list of the regional variations.

 

If you’re missing an entire multiplex of channels, there could be a wide range of reasons:

 

The multiplex is not broadcast from your local transmitter

Not all transmitters carry all multiplexes. Many smaller transmitters (serving only a small area or number of households) will only carry three multiplexes (1, 2 and B). Use this page to determine which transmitter you receive your television signals from and check which multiplexes it carries.

 

The multiplex is broadcast at low power
To avoid interference, some multiplexes are broadcast less powerfully than others. This may result in a weak or no signal for viewers further away from the transmitter, and those using set-top aerials. Check this page for details. A high-gain aerial or signal booster may help - a certified aerial installer can advise you on what options are available. Remember that after switchover, the power at which multiplexes are broadcast will be increased: you may well be able to receive weaker multiplexes.

 

Your local transmitter is undergoing maintenance
Click here to see a map of transmitters currently undergoing engineering work. Digital and analogue television (and radio) signals may be being broadcast at low power or temporarily suspended as a result.

 

The multiplex is “out-of-band”
Some multiplexes are broadcast on frequencies that your aerial may not be able to receive. If your aerial was installed after 1997, or if you have installed a new shop-bought aerial, it is likely that it will be able to receive all the necessary frequencies. Pre-1997 (“pre-Channel 5”) aerials should be able to receive the majority of multiplexes. Use this page to select your region and check if a new aerial may be required.

 

The multiplex frequency clashes with your video/set-top box

If you use an RF (aerial) cable to connect your video, DVD player or set-top box to your television (rather than scart cables), make sure they are not using the same frequencies as any of the multiplexes in your region. Find out what frequencies are used by your transmitter on this page: select your region, check the UHF channel allocation table, then choose a channel to tune your equipment to that doesn’t clash with any listed. To convert between channel numbers and frequencies, click here.

 

It’s raining

The weather can affect Freeview reception, although this tends to only cause major problems in weak signal areas. Try re-scanning your receiver on a brighter day - in some cases, you may even pick up signals from more than one transmitter because high atmospheric pressure increases the range of transmissions!

 

 

Why have I got duplicate channels?

If you live within range of two or more transmitters, occasionally you might pick up channels from both. In such cases, your receiver will either ignore one set of duplicate channels (usually the weakest set), or list the duplicates in the 800s. Sometimes, this allows you to watch programmes from more than one region. On rare occasions, viewers living on the East cost of England and Scotland, and those in the South of England, may even pick up foreign “Freeview” channels! This tends to happen more on warm, sunny days, when the transmission signal travels the furthest. Re-scanning your box again will usually resolve this ‘problem’.

 

 

Why are some channels “encrypted”?

Some subscription channels broadcast alongside the Freeview channels (such as Setanta Sports). These are encrypted, and can only be viewed with the relevant subscription packages, but can be detected by Freeview receivers. Some receivers have menu options which allow you to ignore subscription channels when re-scanning your box, or the option to delete them from your channel list. Doing so will have no adverse affect on the rest of your channels. See “Can I delete the channels I don’t want?”.

 

 

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