How to fix the DirecTV error 771, 40

The cost of a cable service subscription and the quality of its service is a great reason to abandon a service in favor or a media streaming service like Hulu, HBO Max, and Netflix.

Cable services can cost more than several streaming services combined but many people still use them, often because streaming services restrict content geographically.

DirecTV

DirecTV is an AT&T’s cable service and it isn’t cheap. It works with an average cable box or receiver and costs between $65 and $85. The number of channels you get varies and the more expensive subscriptions will also give you HBO Max.

Fix DirecTV error 771, 40

Cable services are just as prone to errors and problems as streaming services. A cable service essentially delivers content over a wired connection and this connection can run into problems. The problem may be with the service or with the hardware that’s used to receive the signal.

The DirecTV error 771, 40 error means that your receiver cannot connect to or is having trouble communicating with your satellite dish. The problem could lie with the receiver, with the SWiM adapter, or with the satellite dish itself.

Here are a few things you can try to fix the DirecTV 771, 40 error.

1. Power cycle SWiM adapter

The SWiM adapter is basically what connects the satellite to the receiver. It is an essential part of the connection.

Unplug the SWiM adapter from the power source.
Wait 10-15 seconds.
Plug the adapter back in.

2. Check for signal obstructions

The satellite receives the signal that is transmitted to the receiver and your TV. If there is something blocking it, you will get the DirecTV 771, 40 error.

Make sure your satellite isn’t blocked by anything and that it hasn’t changed direction. Be careful when you inspect it and if you suspect it might be dangerous to get to the satellite, ask for technical support from AT&T.

3. Check the receiver

Make sure the receiver does not have any loose cables. Inspect the back and (disconnect it from power first) and make sure everything is properly inserted and screwed in.

4. Bad weather conditions

Extreme weather can interfere with the signal to your satellite dish. In this case, there is little that can be done other than to wait for the weather to improve.

If you live somewhere that has snow in winter, it’s possible that snow has accumulated and frozen on the dish. It will have to be cleaned. Call AT&T support and they will send a technician to do the job.

Conclusion

If all else fails, contact customer support. AT&T recommends doing so since this may be a problem with the satellite dish which you shouldn’t try to fix yourself.