DStv Xtraview setup errors can send any satellite installers into panic mode. Luckily, all other things being equal, we have a solution for this error. The most dreaded of all the errors are the E143-0 and E143-4 errors. The error will display on your screen as “No communication from Primary Decoder E143-0” or as “waiting for communication from primary decoder” In this post, we shall be using our knowledge and experiences, including the tips gathered from the DStv forum, to fix the Xtraview E143-0 error which usually occurs during or after xtraview installation.
Types of E143 Errors
We have two common E143 errors during the Dstv xtraview installation. These are:
- E143-0, which is commonly due to wrong installation/connection or failed authentication from DStv
- E143-4: Most of the time, this error is called “waiting for primary decoder error, and it occurs when you combine mismatched decoders or an incomplete connection
Forms of E143 Errors
- During installation: e.g., it didn’t work at all works and failed
- Post-Xtraview Installation: It worked at first and failed later, or it works only at certain times or distances.
What Exactly triggers the DSTV error e143-0/E143-4 Errors?
no communication from primary decoder error(e143) can happen after a power cut or if the decoder(s) were switched off at the power source.” OR after a software upgrade on either of the decoders
- First, the problem could be caused by multichoice, which may not have sent the required signal to your xtraview subscription. Indeed, DStv can tamper with the HB signal levels from their end. Hence if your previously working xtraview stopped working after you changed your decoder or upgraded/downgraded your subscription, Multichoice should be held responsible.
- The DSTV errors e143-4 and e143-0 are triggered when the secondary decoders do not get a signal from the primary decoder. This signal, called the heartbeat pulse, travels along DSTV aerial cable to reach its destination.
Reasons why error 143 Occurs on DStv Xtraview Configurations
Error 143 occurs as a kind of anti-piracy move. For example, old decoders will lose signal if placed farther than 7 meters from the primary decoder. In comparison, newer DStv decoders(like exploras) can survive and get signal within 30 meters of the primary decoder.
- Multichoice uses the DSTV error e143-4/e143-0 to stop a secondary decoder from working when it’s not connected to the primary decoder.
- This prevents the secondary decoder from being placed too far away from the primary decoder, like in someone else’s home in another suburb.
- This keeps fraudulent users in check if they want to share DSTV accounts across two households.
Especially Relevant:
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How to Connect Three DStv Decoders To Use One Xtraview Subscription
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How to Combine and Setup XtraView/Extra View on Various DStv Decoders
Causes Of Error E143-0/E143-4 During Xtraview Installation
These problems mentioned earlier can be a result of your hardware/connection setup or a result of Software or within the decoder setup. We will first deal with the within-the-decoder setup before proceeding to that of the hardware.
Meanwhile, list some basic requirements for a successful DStv extra view/xtraview configuration.
What you need before Opting for Xtraview
- You must have a DStv Xtraview compliant/capable decoder. Such decoder includes HD PVR 2P, single view 4-series 4S, 4U, Single view HD 5S and 5U, and all Explora models such as Explora 1, 2A, and 3a. Then the new DStv 6-series decoder. Older DStv decoders like the SD decoders can no longer do xtraview.
- Secondly, you need a smart switch 24-1Z or Smart LNB(LMX500, 501 or 502). I recommend getting the SLNB LMX501 if you don’t have any of the devices mentioned above.
- Pay for a Dstv Xtraview-compliant bouquet and also pay for the additional extra view fees. Mind you; you must first pay for one and 2 Xtraview subscriptions if you want to connect three decoders.
- If you use a DStv decoder that doesn’t come with an inbuilt diplexer for the heartbeat signal, you need to buy a diplexer for your older decoders. The decoders in this category include Explora 1, DStv single view 4-series, and older. They have RF in/out but lack inbuilt diplexers.
it is a fallacy to write off the 143-4 errors as only due to a wiring issue. The primary cause of this error is a problem with the XV setup! The XV setup MUST be eliminated before scratching around in an existing installation that worked before upgrading a decoder.
Fix Xtraview E143-0 Error Related to Incorrect Decoder Settings
Specific settings must be correct before all your secondary decoders can communicate with the primary decoder. I will be given you hints on this. Your user bands and frequencies are essential, and they must not conflict with each other.
Similarly, you must correctly set up the decoder from within the network settings. For example, using the quick DStv installation wizard, your decoder two must be set up as decoder 2. The same applies to decoder 3.
How to complete the within-the-decoder Xtraview setup
- First, switch off all the decoders, start with the primary, and set the user band. Once done, switch off the primary decoder and do likewise to the secondary decoders individually. You can check if the user band setup was done correctly by pressing the help button of the remote, scrolling down to General Information and then right to Information Central, and pressing OK. The Decoder Setup Type should read Decoder 1 for The Primary and Decoder 2 for the first secondary decoder, and Decoder 3 for the last. If this is not so, restart the installation wizard for the secondary decoder(s)
- Secondly, check the decoders’ Xtraview status by going to the “Extraview status” option right at the bottom of the “general information” drop-down menu. All decoders need to show their Extraview status as active. You have a problem if you have more than one primary decoder. Similarly, there’s a problem if no primary decoder is listed. If you have no primary decoders, you need to call Multichoice to rectify this before you continue to the next stage of the fix.
- Next, switch on the primary decoder, and after it is fully booted, switch on the secondary decoders. All the decoders should now complete the reboot cycle. And work receiving Dish on CH 100.
- Now call Multichoice to set up your Xtraview subscription if not already set up. Everything should work. If it doesn’t work, it means there is a problem with your hardware combination and connection. This shall be discussed in the section below.
Fix Xtraview E143-0/E143-4 Error Caused by Incorrect Hardware Installations
Now that we are through with the software/system settings causes of E143 are “No communication from Primary Decoder E143-0″ OR ” waiting for communication from primary decoder error” Below are a comprehensive troubleshooting guide.
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Check your Signal Quality
First off and most important, check your signal quality. Check for poor connections and verify signal strength and quality on all tuners on all decoders involved in the xtraview setup. If you can’t use your DStv decoder to do this, you can use your sat-finder. The values need to be above 80% on all tuners. To troubleshoot signal loss, read this post
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Set your Diplexer Correctly if using One.
Secondly, check that you are setting up your diplexer correctly if you are using one with your setup. Below is a diagram showing how to connect a diplexer to an Explora 1, assuming the Explora 1 is your primary decoder for the XV. Remember that your diplexer must be placed at the back of the decoder.
For clarity, you can set up any diplexer in the normal way or reverse method, depending on the device.
Normal usage:
ANT (S1) – connects to the RF In or Out port (depending on the user’s needs)
I/O (PX) – connects to the LNB’s cable from the dish. See image above.
SAT (S2) – connects to the LNB input/unicable port
Reverse usage:
ANT (S1) – connects to the RF coaxial cable you will be routing
I/O (PX) – connects to the LNB input port
SAT (S2) – connects to the LNB’s cable from the dish.
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Make sure you get the Heartbeat Cables right if Connected directly.
For example, Explora 1 and Explora 2A can use a cable connection. Sadly, the new Explora 3A doesn’t come with RF IN.OUT ports. In other words, you can’t use a direct heartbeat connection with 3A and any other decoder. However, if you want to use two xtraview capable decoders the old way, you need to run a heartbeat cable from the RFout of the primary decoder to the RF-IN of the secondary decoder. This doesn’t require a diplexer.
Make sure this is the case. And it is done the right way if you choose this route. Otherwise, either use a diplexer or use SLNB with two decoders that have builtin diplexers such as Explora 2a, 3a, 5s, 5u and 6s
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Check the distance between the two Decoders.
If you use two DStv Explora, you have the leverage of at most 30 meters distance between the primary and secondary decoders. By contrast, the length may not be up to this if you use the older decoders or the series four decoders. You can bring the two decoders closer and see if the signal is restored if this is the case, you can try the 7-meters distance and see what happens.
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Check your heartbeat cable for faults.
Check all cabling coming out of the decoders if this is the case for you.
The heartbeat cable that connects older model decoders uses the RFin/RFout ports of those decoders to send the heartbeat pulse. In comparison, the same kind of cables does a similar job via DStv smart LNB on newer decoders. If any or some of these cables are faulty or damaged, you will surely get the e143 error code.
The LNBin and Heartbeat ports are the same on the newer model decoders and use diplexing to achieve this.
Look out for the following Anomalies on the coaxial/heartbeat cables
- Exposed inner braiding or inner copper core
- Replace the cable if it is damaged
- Bad crease on bends on the cables. Make sure you replace a bent cable
- Electrical Grounding and leaks
- Lastly, check that the outer braiding does not make contact with the inner copper-coated conductor, as even one strand will cause a ground leak and break the continuity of the signal.
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Check the Cable Joints
Inspect joined cable stretches and ensure they are correctly joined and don’t come loose easily when you tug at them.
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The 143-0/143-4 Error may also be due to the Weather
You may also have other forms of signal problems. For instance, weather changes can affect older equipment more than it does to newer ones.
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T-Pieces and F-Connecters
In the case of ROUT to RFIN heartbeat connection, you may need a T-piece connector.
Similarly, it would be best to know what passes for a properly terminated f-connector. Badly joined connectors are one of the biggest problems facing DSTV and network installations. It’s not that it’s hard to do, but it does take some mindfulness and consideration.
Inspect your connectors and re-fit them if they are loose, or replace them if they seem too worn out.
If you join the cables, please eliminate them with connectors and barrels. Check on all connectors, especially the ones at the LNB
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Make sure your Diplexer(where applicable) is not faulty
A faulty diplexer can also cause a 143 error code to pop up. To fix this, make sure you are using a good one. Also, ensure you are not using a combiner instead of a diplexer.
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Smart LNB/Smart Switches ports
Another cause of error 143-0 is faulty SLNB ports. To fix the Xtraview E143-0 error, change ports on the SLNB. But make sure all the unused ports have terminations on them. These terminators help protect the universal ports from the weather.
Note that the 5 series decoder will never function properly if connected to the universal ports. Therefore connect it to the unicable port.
This is a bit complicated to understand. Newer decoders have one cable that transports both satellite incoming signal and heartbeat pulse down one length of cable through the smart LNB. This can be done because they have a built-in diplexer.
Fix Xtraview E143-0 error Even When Your Hardware Connection and Cabling are Accurate.
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If an installer is handling this for you, call back the installer, he must do what he’s been paid for.
- Secondly, call DStv/multichoice to ensure your xtraview is active.
- It would help if you asked them for an XtraView (XV) specialist when you call. This may, however, take a lot of “negotiating” before they agree to arrange that callback. Therefore, you may suggest getting the operator’s name if the call back isn’t done.
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When you phone call DStv, ask for an XV specialist. Then you need to explain what you are trying to do. DStv may need to break all links between your decoders completely.
Hello sir
Can I have xtraview link between Dstv Model 8s and Model 4s using universal LNB and single Diplexer? because the 4s has RF port?
@Binyam: i don’t think the 8s supports universal LNBf
Please our decoder is misbehaving with the error “NO COMMUNICATION FROM PRIMARY DECODER AND ALSO NO SIGNAL OR POOR COMMUNICATION ” meanwhile other decoders connect peacefully
@shady: your comment is not specific. are you referring to a dstv decoder? what model? is it the primary or secondary decoder?
Hi, my name is Gary and I am the victim of E 143-0. Explora to LNB and LNB to secondary decoder. Straight forward. No heartbeat at secondary decoder. The existing installation worked well for 10 yrs and suddenly E 143. All available possibilities (expensive) have been explored, replacing all cabling, LNB and new decoder (model95) no success.
The installers walked away not knowing what to do. I started experimenting with an LNB and pieces of short cabling in a bench setup and heartbeat is working. Simulated with longer length of cabling to get greater attenuation up to a point almost simulating existing installation when the trouble starts. Found that Explora to LNB low attenuation and LNB to secondary higher attenuation kind of worked but not well. Change to Explora to LNB higher attenuation and LNB to secondary lower attenuation works perfect. This is on the bench model, the actual installation has longer cable runs and does not work. I have come to the conclusion that the heartbeat pulse made by the Explora has lost suddenly signal strength. Before I now go and buy a new Explora I would like to consult with you if my reasoning is reasonable and have you ever come across a heartbeat problem caused by an Explora. Sorry for this lengthy message and I would appreciate you thought on my issue. Thank you, Gary
@gary: your findings is largely correct, in recent times, the longer the cable, the weaker the signal. I think this is a security move by multichoice to counter satellite piracy via cabling. I will advice you to take into account the distance from the explora decoder to the dish before you buy another decoder. Newer decoders are more problematic in this regard than the older ones like explora 2.
Hi… we bought a Explora 3b and use it as our primary the 3 a we activated as xtraview. Our problem is that it keeps on saying that it can not communicate with the primary. Apparently the two Exploras do not need the heartbeat anymore. Its n frequency problem how do we solve it. Please help..
@M.SCANNELI: you need to specify a different user band for the decoders. they must not use the same user band
Hi can I use diplexer in case I don’t have a modulator for extra tv am using zapper 6s
Please our decoder is misbehaving with the error “NO COMMUNICATION FROM PRIMARY DECODER AND ALSO NO SIGNAL OR POOR COMMUNICATION ” meanwhile other decoders connect peacefully
@Benson: please call DStv to confirm if you have a valid subscription
Hi I have a error on my second decoder. It says E143-0 my second decoder is in other area from primary decoder.
@Nomfundo: How to Combine and Setup XtraView/Extra View on Various DStv Decoders
I got the E-143-0. I exhausted all possible solutions. Then I found out that the hdmi cable I connected to my laptop was interfering with the secondary decoder receiving the heartbeat signal.
Is the connection from laptop to dstv or tv
I have been stuck and frustrated with E143-0 on my extra view for over a year now. Installers have been called in several times to fix this but nothing is coming up. Its money going down the drain always when I call them. Please help!!!!!
@Majorie: what problem exactly are you encountering?
I have a broplame with my dstv when I connected the cable to Langwith my decorder it showes only the free chanel but if I use the other channels it says waiting communication primary decorder then after waiting it showes again communication
@Muqtaar: are you trying to install xtraview on your DStv decoder? what decoder model are you using?
Firstly thank you for the thorough documentation you’ve made available.
I have the followed the advice and may be missing something….
I have the following configuration :
Explorer 1 — Diplexor — —— LNB 5000 (port A) (Port B) ———- Single View Decoder 6S
I have verified that each box has its own frequency ranges.
I have made sure that the 6S decoder has the Decoder 2 configured.
I have made sure that each decoder “sees” the Explorer 1 as the primary and the 6S the secondary
Both decoders happily scan and “see” all the channels
The Primary Decoder has video and audio 100%
The Secondary is waiting for the heartbeat from the Primary
The Primary shows the heartbeat being sent (whether it goes anywhere …)
The Secondary is IDLE
So my gut is that the Explorer 1 isn’t delivering via the diplexor.
In your documentation you mention the “Normal” way to wire the Diplexor or the “Reverse” way.
I’m not sure which way I’m supposed to use for my configuration ?
I’m guessing :
————- —————-
! RF Out ! ——– [ ANT ]
————- —————-]———-
I/O ] ————–> to LNB 5000 port A
————- ————— ] ———-
! LNB in ! ———-[ SAT ]
————- —————
I have also verified that I have selected RF OUT under the Xtraview settings on the Explorer.
I’m really stumped
Many thanks
Barry
@Barry: you need to read this(How to Combine and Setup XtraView/Extra View on Various DStv Decoders as most of your questions have been answered there
Good evening Mr LA, E-143 keep reoccurring on the screen after some minutes the decoder will come up. Please what can I do?
@Eyube Rume: Have you checked to see if your cable is firmly secured?
Hi. I did Xtra view with Explore 1 and HD 4S but the 4S as the secondary decoder is showing not communications with the Primary decoder. I ran a heartbeat cable from the Primary to the Secondary Decoder yet I’m still having problem getting the secondary decoder to communicate with the secondary decoder. Please help.
@Isah: for advanced knowledge, please read How to Combine and Setup XtraView/Extra View on Various DStv Decoders
It have been 2 weeks since I’m struggling for e143-0. I have being phoning but no help. Installer failed and I have paid for the month. I don’t know what to do now.
@Martin: have you tried changing your dstv decoder model?
Good evening how can I separate my primary and secondary decoder my son wants to take one of the decoder to school
@kingsley: you simply needs to subscribe on the secondary one that’s all
I’m having are problem on my decoder with this E143-0 the installer can’t clear it, what must i do now…?
@Thami: clear it with this tips https://www.lemmymorgan.com/fix-xtraview-e143-0-error/
Hi there waisting all my airtime,
Good day sir, thanks for sharing.I’ve been stuck with error E143-0 for days now.I keep calling Dstv and they keep resetting,I’ve also called my technician and he also keeps complaining that the problem is not with the installation.Following your explanation,I realized that my Explora Decoder setup type is Manual while the Xtraview is Decoder 1, please how do I resolve this?
@Ceebash: this will help you resolve it How to Combine and Setup XtraView/Extra view on Various DStv Decoders(old and new)
Excellent description and very very thorough…don’t often get such on depth insight and solutions
Good evening Mr LA, I’m Fred by Name.
Please I want to enquire if Dstv Zapper 5u and 6s decoders linked as Extra view with two Diaplexers, can work with Dual LNBf instead of A SMART LNBf?