Retune decoder to avoid Blank screen on Prime

Viewers with unapproved Freeview satellite receivers will have to have their decoder retuned to watch the return of Downton Abbey and other Prime programming.

Some Wanganui locals thought they had paid the money to buy the equipment for the digital switchover.

However, a disgruntled caller said he and others he knew have had to pay $25 to have their decoders retuned.

What they did not know is that on October 9, Sky changed its free-to-air Freeview Satellite Service and it was now being broadcast directly by Sky TV.

The Sky TV version of Prime is still broadcast free-to-air, unencrypted, and is accessible by most Freeview satellite receivers.

Freeview general manager Sam Irvine said most Freeview-approved receivers (those that carried the Freeview logo) should have automatically updated to the new Prime service.

"If you don't receive Prime you may need to perform a blind scan or factory reset," Mr Irvine said.

People with unapproved Freeview satellite receivers should contact their supplier for instructions on how to retune if they have not done so already.

For those who are still not receiving Prime, go to http://freeviewforum.co.nz/page/prime-move-on-freeview-satellite