DirecTV troubleshooting 771 error implies your device is searching for satellite signal, and itโs among the most reoccurring error message subscribers to encounter. The error message is not as frustrating as some subscribers are making it because, with the right information, this can be resolved.
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The causes of this error 771 message
The leading causes of this error vary, unlike other error codes that have a known cause. However, one of the main factors that lead to this error is stormy weather. Hence once you notice your receiver is searching for a signal during a thunderstorm, there is no need to panic or even think of reaching out to the customer service. They cannot do anything to rectify it. Remember, they use a weather map, which will reveal the problem behind the error message.
Other factors that can trigger this error include accidental change of electric supply or cables, an equipment error, negative outcome of a storm, etc. Before thinking of any troubleshooting method, itโs essential to check if something couldโve triggered the error message. For instance, did you move the furniture and it affected the cables? Did you attempt cleaning your gutters when your satellite cables are? Or did you buy a surge protector? These are somethings that can give rise to the error.
Troubleshooting 771 error message
The steps outlined below will help you fix the error message as soon as possible.
You need to see the Error code on your TV screen
Itโs essential before you start troubleshooting, be sure what you saw on your screen is the 771 error code. If you saw โretrieving signalโ or โno signal,โ it means your TV is likely to be on an incorrect channel or input. But if youโre sure, then continue with step two
Locate your access card
The access card is usually located behind a small panel on your receiver. Eject the card, wait for 30 seconds before you re-insert it back. This can rectify the issue, but there is every tendency you still have a problem with your dish or the cables that run through it. This is a quick fix but if it didnโt work, try the next step.
Examine your satellite dish
For those who use more than more receiver and displaces this error, it is important to check if something is blocking your dishโfor instance, fallen tree, ice, branches, vehicles, or even animals. Nothing should be obstructing the line of sight. So check and remove if there is any.
Check your cables
This can be one of the most challenging troubleshooting methods. This is because several possibilities can result to this error. But it will depend on how many receivers you use, including the model. No matter the model of receiver youโve, all of them has a โSat Inโ port for receiving a signal from your dish. So you need to locate this port, unscrew the cables and wait for 30 seconds before connecting it again. Then check your TV screen to see if the error has stopped. If there is still no change, try the next solution.
Press the channel button
Double-tap on your channel button-up twice, then down. This action usually sends a response signal straight to your satellite dish. This corrects the error most of the time, and itโs a quick way of rectifying this error. You can also try the next step if this wasnโt successful.
Check your SWIM power inserter
Some model of the receiver has a SWIM, especially those that are HD-DVR. You can easily locate this close to the primary receiver. What you need to do is simply unplug it, wait for 20 seconds, then plug it back in again. Check to see if the error has stopped. If the problem is a result of interference, the signal should be back after this. If not, try the next solution.
Reset the receiver
This might take a long time, especially when youโre not getting any satellite signal. One of the easiest ways to reset your receiver is by locating the tiny red button, which can be seen close to the access card; because pressing it might be difficult, itโs advisable to use any small object like a pencil head, paperclip, etc., to press it. Once pressed, the reset will commence. Youโll know this because the TV will turn black. In the end, youโll see a DirecTV logo; then, the satellite will begin to regain its signal. Depending on the model of receiver youโve, youโll notice a percentage bar towards mid-screen. Once the bar is close to 15%, youโll regain the lost signal within minutes.
In Conclusion
You now know what causes the loss of satellite signal and how to troubleshoot error 771. Follow it as suggested, and youโll discover you can completely carry out the troubleshoot yourself to fix the error.
Frequently asked questions
How can I resolve the 711 code on my DirecTV?
To resolve this, you can try to reset your receiver. Follow the steps below
- Remove the power cord from the electrical source.
- Please wait for a minimum of 15 seconds before plugging it back in.
- Press the power button, which can be seen on your receiverโs front panel.
- Allow it to reboot.
- Refresh and check your service.
What does 771 signal loss imply?
When you notice this error code, it means that your DirecTV is finding it difficult to properly communicate with your dish, which is mounted outside.
My DirecTV keeps losing the signal. What could be the cause?
โRain fade,โ as itโs being called, is one of the common causes of this signal loss. This happens when the weather conditions disrupt the communication between the DirecTV server and your receiver. It depends on the area where you reside. Some parts experience it more than others.