The Winegard Playmaker Dual antenna system allows for the connection of a secondary receiver, providing flexibility for multiple TVs or viewing locations. However, if you're experiencing an issue where the secondary receiver is not getting a signal, follow these troubleshooting steps:
1. Verify Main Receiver Signal:
- The first step is to confirm that the main receiver connected and receiving a signal.
- If the main receiver has no signal, troubleshoot that issue first using the appropriate guide. Troubleshooting Winegard Playmaker: No Signal Lock
- If the main receiver has a signal, proceed to the next step.
2. Cable and Connection Check:
- The secondary receiver connects directly to the antenna via a separate coax cable.
- Inspect the coax cable connecting the secondary receiver to the antenna for any damage or kinks.
- Ensure the cable is securely connected to both the receiver and the antenna's secondary port.
- Bypass any coach wiring and connect the cable directly if possible.
3. Signal Test on Secondary Port:
- If the cable and connections are good, try connecting the secondary receiver directly to the antenna's secondary port.
- If you get a signal on the secondary receiver when connected directly to the antenna, the issue might be with the coach wiring or the original cable used for the secondary connection.
4. Receiver Configuration:
- If the secondary receiver is still not receiving a signal after checking the connections, it might be due to incorrect configuration.
- Access the Diagnostics screen on the secondary receiver by pressing the "Home" button on the DISH remote, selecting the settings icon, then the diagnostics icon, and finally pressing "3".
- The "Switch" field should be set to "None", and there should be a single satellite listed under "Switch Status". The specific satellite will depend on the receiver's last test installation.
5. Clearing the Receiver:
- If the "Switch" field shows anything other than "None" or multiple satellites are listed under "Switch Status", the receiver needs to be cleared.
- Disconnect the coax cable from the back of the receiver and select "Test Installation" on the screen.
- Allow the "Check Switch Status Progress" to complete. You might get a message about fewer satellites found, which is normal. Select "Save" when prompted.
- Reconnect the coax cable and select "Test Installation" again. The screen should now show a single satellite under "Switch Status".
6. Further Troubleshooting:
- If you still don't have a satellite listed in "Switch Status", try replacing the coax cable and running the test again.
- If the issue persists, perform a voltage test to ensure the receiver is providing sufficient power to the antenna.
- If there's proper voltage but still no satellite in "Switch Status", submit a Support Ticket for further assistance.
7. Receiver Activation/Refresh:
- If the receiver is requesting activation, follow the on-screen instructions.
- Once the receiver has a satellite in "Check Switch Status", back out of the screens until it starts acquiring a signal. You'll either have programming or need to activate/refresh the receiver. Follow the on-screen prompts.
By systematically checking the connections, cables, receiver configuration, and signal at the secondary port, you can effectively troubleshoot and resolve the "No Signal to Secondary Receiver" issue on your Winegard Playmaker antenna.