TracVision not finding a satellite?

Understanding the Astra 28.2°E satellite changes and how Burmarc can help

For many years, KVH TracVision domes have provided reliable satellite television reception for boats, yachts, ships, motorhomes, caravans & RVs across the UK and Europe. However, in recent months, some customers have noticed their satellite TV systems struggling to find or track the Astra 28.2°E satellite — the main broadcast source for UK Freesat and Sky channels.

At Burmarc Limited, we’ve been helping UK customers understand what’s happening and offering practical solutions to keep their systems working smoothly and provide practical & affordable upgrade paths.

Why Your TracVision May No Longer Track Astra 28.2°E

The issue isn’t a fault with your dome — it’s due to a major broadcast change.

The Astra 28.2°E satellite cluster has been steadily upgrading its UK television broadcasts from the older DVB-S standard to the newer, high-definition DVB-S2 transmission format. This change improves signal efficiency and allows for HD and UHD channels, but it also means that many older TracVision models — such as the M3, M5, and early R-series domes — can no longer lock onto or track Astra 28.2°E using their built-in DVB-S tuners.

In simple terms, the older systems are looking for “signposts” that no longer exist. As more DVB-S2 transponders replace the legacy DVB-S ones, the number of usable tracking frequencies has reduced dramatically, leaving older TracVision domes unable to maintain a satellite lock.

What This Means for UK Boat and Motorhome Owners

If your TracVision system suddenly struggles to find Astra 28.2°E, endlessly searches without locking on the problem likely lies with the DVB-S/DVB-S2 changeover.

This affects both marine and land-based installations — the challenge is the similar whether your dome is on a yacht, narrowboat, or motorhome.

The good news is that the hardware itself is rarely damaged or faulty; it’s just no longer compatible with the new DVB-S2 broadcast environment.

How Burmarc Limited Can Help

At Burmarc, we specialise in supporting legacy KVH TracVision systems across the UK. Our services include:

• Diagnostics and repairs of older KVH domes.
• Advice and hardware upgrades to restore or improve functionality and squeeze the last possible use out of the system to enable an alternative route to be discussed, planned and scheduled.
• Custom retrofit solutions for customers who wish to retain their existing installation.

We understand that replacing a full satellite dome can be costly and may alter the aesthetic of your vessel or vehicle. That’s why we’ve developed novel retrofit options, including the ability to replace the internal components of a KVH TracVision dome with a Starlink antenna.

This innovative conversion preserves the external look of your system, minimises installation costs, and delivers the benefits of modern satellite internet connectivity — all while maintaining the sleek aesthetic of your boat or motorhome.

Expert Support, Realistic Solutions

Whether you’re looking to repair your existing TracVision, explore DVB-S2-compatible alternatives, or take advantage of our Starlink retrofit option, Burmarc Limited offers expert, UK-based advice and hands-on technical support.

We’re here to help you get the most from your existing equipment — and to future-proof your onboard connectivity for years to come.

Get in Touch

If your KVH TracVision dome has recently stopped tracking Astra 28.2°E, or you’d like to discuss upgrade or retrofit options, contact Burmarc Limited today.

📞 Phone: 01420 460461
📧 Email: service@burmarc.co.uk
🌐 Website: burmarc.co.uk

Our experienced engineers are ready to assist — whether you’re on the water or on the road