Multiswitch issue

[Smacca]

Hey all,

I've been having problems with my multiswitch(es). Basically I have an iQ and a dual tuner PVR for Aurora. I have a dual output LNB going to a Spaun 2in/4out multiswitch, then dual cables to both set top units. Unfortunately it seems that only one set top unit gets priority at any one time. I first connected my PVR to the multiswitch only, and it worked well. Then I connected the iQ and that failed to pick up any signal. I then tried it the other way round, iQ first then PVR - same thing but vice versa - the iQ got signal and the PVR got 0% quality. Oh, and I also have a 2nd multiswitch which has the same results.

My LNB is a standard Foxtel Acer (10700), and both boxes have the correct LNB settings in their respective menus. The PVR is a Coship 9200A and has Diseqc capability.

I read somewhere else that Diseqc settings can play a role in multiswitches - do I need to set something? I've never had a problem like this before when I used it for my old Humax 5410 together with the iQ. I'm thinking the PVR might be to blame?

Any help is greatly appreciated.

[TurnKey]

It's possible that one of the LNBs outputs is stuffed (first box connected gets the good output).
Test the LNB outputs minus the switch (only use 1 input on 1 box with 1 of the LNB outputs, then test the other output).
Alternatively, hook up the humax again, instead of the coship, to test all ok as in the past.
At least this will rule out hardware failure!

[Smacca]

Thanks for the reply, TurnKey.

I tried exactly what you said and the boxes worked fine, so it seems the multiswitch _may_ be at fault. I say may, because...

I decided to use my 2nd dish for the iQ box that wasnt getting signal. This obviously worked as it avoided the multiswitch all together (which the PVR was using as priority anyway as previously explained). Then, after the iQ got signal, I decided to try using ports 3 and 4 of the multiswitch one more time just for luck and for some reason it now works. Seems like the iQ just needed a non multiswitch connection to get the signal first, then it will accept a multiswitched connection. Confused? I certainly am. Even though it's all working just how I want it, it's still frustrating not knowing what the problem is.

[cwispy]

Did you terminate the multiswitch connections that are not in use? Any unused connections on a multiswitch should have a 75 Ohm terminator on them either at the wall plate or the multiswitch itself.

[Smacca]

No, I did not. This is the first I've heard of it. Where might I find them to purchase?

[soap]

do you have a dual LNB? a multiswitch alone does not mean both boxes will get signal

[Smacca]

It looks like one of the cables coming out of the switch is faulty. It works when it wants to which is why I never saw it before.

I've now learned that the iQ relies on Tuner 1 to have signal, otherwise the box doesn't work at all - even if Tuner 2 is picking up signal fine.

Thanks everyone for the help!

[cwispy]

No, I did not. This is the first I've heard of it. Where might I find them to purchase?

[Smacca]

Thanks cwispy!

[cwispy]

No probs. I guess if the switch has been working fine without them, may as well keep using it without them.