The cable and connectors between your DStv satellite dish and decoder matter more than most people think. Bad cable or a single loose connector can cause pixelation, signal drops, and E48 no-signal errors — problems that look like a dish fault but are actually in the wiring. Here is everything you need to know about DStv cables and connectors.
DStv Cable Types
RG6 Coaxial Cable (Recommended)
RG6 is the standard cable for all modern DStv installations. It has a thicker copper-clad centre conductor and better shielding than older cable types, which means less signal loss over distance and better resistance to interference.
- Price: R8–R15 per metre
- Use for: all new DStv installations, cable replacements, and extra TV points
- Maximum recommended run: up to 50 metres without a signal booster
RG59 Coaxial Cable (Outdated)
RG59 is thinner and has less shielding than RG6. It was common in older installations but causes noticeable signal loss on runs longer than 15–20 metres. If your DStv installation uses RG59, upgrading to RG6 can fix intermittent signal problems — especially if you have upgraded to an Explora decoder.
LNB Cable
There is no special “LNB cable” — the cable between the LNB and the decoder is standard RG6 coaxial cable. The term “LNB cable” simply refers to the cable run from the dish to the decoder. Use RG6 for this run.
DStv Connectors
F-Connectors
F-connectors are the threaded fittings at each end of the coaxial cable. They connect to the LNB, wall plates, splitters, and the decoder’s satellite input. There are two types:
- Twist-on F-connectors — cheap (R2–R5 each) but prone to loosening and water ingress. Fine for indoor temporary connections.
- Compression F-connectors — R5–R15 each, require a compression tool. Create a waterproof, vibration-proof connection. Always use these for outdoor connections and permanent installations.
DStv Cable Connectors and Joiners
- Barrel connector (F-F coupler) — joins two cables end-to-end. Each join introduces a small signal loss (~0.5dB), so minimise the number of joins in a cable run.
- Wall plate (F-type) — a neat indoor termination point. Costs R20–R50.
- Splitter — divides one cable signal into two or more outputs. Each split halves the signal power. For multi-room setups, a Smart LNB or distribution amplifier is usually better than a passive splitter.
DStv Cable Prices (2026)
- RG6 cable (per metre) — R8–R15
- RG6 cable (100m roll) — R600–R1,000
- Compression F-connectors (pack of 10) — R50–R100
- Twist-on F-connectors (pack of 10) — R20–R40
- F-barrel connector — R10–R20
- 2-way splitter — R30–R60
- Wall plate (single F-type) — R20–R50
For total cable costs in an installation, see what DStv extra cable costs per metre in Cape Town.
Common Cable Problems
- Water ingress — the number-one cause of cable-related signal faults. Water enters at poorly sealed outdoor F-connectors and travels down inside the cable. Read: why water gets into DStv cables.
- Old RG59 cable — signal loss on long runs, especially with Explora decoders that need higher signal levels.
- Kinked or crushed cable — a sharp bend damages the internal shielding and changes the cable’s impedance, causing signal reflection and loss.
- Rodent damage — rats chew through cable sheathing in roof spaces, exposing the shielding to moisture and causing intermittent faults.
When to Call a Technician
If you suspect a cable or connector fault — intermittent signal, signal that drops in rain but comes back when dry, or signal on some transponders but not others — a DStv technician can test the cable with a signal meter and replace the faulty section. Cable faults are common and usually quick to fix. For detailed wiring specifications, refer to the official DStv installation guidelines.
Need a DStv pro in Cape Town?
- DStv installers near me — certified local technicians across Cape Town
- DStv technician near me — book a skilled tech today
- DStv repairs near me — fast signal and decoder fixes
- DStv dish installation prices — 2026 Cape Town price guide
- DStv contact number Cape Town — local installer and repair line
More Cape Town DStv guides
- Smart LNB for DStv Explora: 5 Best Essential Facts
- How to Know If Your DStv LNB Needs Replacing
- DStv Dish Size: The Best Simple Guide for 2026 Signal
- The Right Place to Mount Your DStv Dish for the Best Signal in Cape Town
- Why Does a DStv Dish Move Out of Alignment in Wind?
- How Often Should a DStv Dish Be Realigned or Serviced?
- Why Water Gets Into DStv Cables and Causes Signal Loss
- How Lightning Damages DStv Equipment and Prevention Tips
- How Much Does DStv Installation Cost in Cape Town? Your Complete 2026 Guide
- What Does DStv Extra Cable Actually Cost Per Metre in Cape Town?