Understanding Starlink Dish Alert Messages: A Comprehensive Guide
When monitoring your Starlink dish status, you may encounter various alert messages that indicate different operational conditions or issues. Understanding these alerts can help you troubleshoot problems and ensure optimal performance of your Starlink internet service. This guide explains each alert message and provides guidance on what actions might be needed.
Operational Status Alerts
Normal
This status indicates your Starlink dish is operating as expected with no issues detected. No action is required.
Obstructed
Your dish has detected obstructions blocking its view of the sky. This could be trees, buildings, or other tall objects. Obstructions can cause service interruptions or degraded performance. The system considers obstruction significant when the fraction obstructed exceeds 5% AND the latency is over 100ms. Consider relocating your dish to a location with a clearer view of the sky.
Currently Obstructed
This indicates that the dish is experiencing an active obstruction event right now. This differs from the general "Obstructed" alert which may indicate a pattern of obstruction rather than an ongoing event.
Is SNR Persistently Low
The Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) has been consistently below expected levels. Low SNR can result in reduced connection quality and speed. This could be due to environmental factors, partial obstructions, or interference. Monitor your connection quality and check for potential sources of interference or partial obstructions.
Temperature-Related Alerts
Dish Is Heating
The dish is actively using its heating elements to melt snow or ice. This is normal operation in cold weather conditions and no action is required. Power consumption may increase during heating cycles.
Dish Thermal Throttle
The dish has detected high internal temperatures and is reducing power to prevent damage. This typically occurs during hot weather or extended direct sunlight exposure. The dish will continue to operate but potentially with reduced performance. If possible, ensure the dish isn't in direct sunlight for extended periods.
Dish Thermal Shutdown
The dish has reached a critical temperature threshold and has temporarily shut down to prevent damage. Service will be interrupted until the dish cools down. Consider providing shade or waiting until temperatures decrease before continuing operation.
Power Supply Thermal Throttle
The power supply is overheating and reducing output to prevent damage. Check that the power supply has adequate ventilation and isn't in a confined, hot space. Ensure it's not covered by objects or placed in direct sunlight.
Positioning and Movement Alerts
Motors Stuck
The dish positioning motors cannot move properly. This might be due to physical obstruction, ice buildup, or motor failure. Check for visible obstructions around the dish's moving parts and clear them if possible. If the issue persists, contact Starlink support.
Mast Not Near Vertical
The dish has detected that its mounting pole is not properly vertical. This can affect the dish's ability to properly position itself for optimal satellite coverage. Adjust your mounting pole to ensure it's vertically aligned.
Moving Too Fast For Policy
The dish has detected that it's moving at a speed exceeding operational limits. Starlink has different service tiers for mobility, and this alert may indicate you're exceeding the limitations of your current mobility plan.
Stowed
The dish is currently in its stowed position. In this position, the dish is compacted for transport or to protect itself from extreme conditions. You will not have internet service while the dish is stowed. Use the Starlink app to unstow the dish when you're ready to resume service.
Stow Requested
A request has been made to stow the dish, either through the app or automatically due to environmental conditions. The dish will soon move to its stowed position. Internet service may be affected once the dish completes the stowing process.
Connection and Performance Alerts
Slow Ethernet Speeds
Your dish has detected that the Ethernet connection is operating below expected speeds. Check your Ethernet cables for damage and ensure they're properly connected. Consider replacing with high-quality cables if issues persist.
Hardware Alerts
Hardware Self Test
The dish is performing an internal hardware diagnostic test. This is normal during startup or after software updates. No action is required unless the test repeatedly fails.
Maintenance Alerts
Software Install Pending
A software update is available and waiting to be installed. Updates typically install automatically during low-usage periods, but this alert indicates an update is queued. No action is typically required, but you can restart your dish to prompt the update if desired.
Performance Metrics to Monitor
Beyond alerts, your Starlink interface provides several important metrics to help you understand your connection's performance:
Downlink Throughput
The rate at which data is being downloaded from the satellites to your dish, measured in bits per second (bps). Higher values indicate faster download speeds.
Uplink Throughput
The rate at which data is being uploaded from your dish to the satellites, measured in bits per second (bps). Higher values indicate faster upload speeds.
Latency
The time (in milliseconds) it takes for data to travel from your dish to Starlink's ground stations and back. Lower values indicate a more responsive connection. Latency over 100ms combined with obstructions may indicate connection problems.
Ping Drop Rate
The percentage of connection test packets that fail to reach their destination. Lower values indicate a more stable connection. High drop rates can cause intermittent connectivity issues.
Connected Routers
A list of routers currently connected to your Starlink dish. This can help you verify that all your networking equipment is properly connected.
What to Do When You See Alerts
- Temporary Alerts: Many alerts may be temporary and resolve on their own. Monitor the situation before taking action.
- Environmental Factors: For alerts related to temperature, obstruction, or positioning, address the environmental factors if possible.
- Persistent Alerts: If alerts persist for more than 24 hours or regularly recur, contact Starlink support for assistance.
- Multiple Alerts: If you see multiple alerts simultaneously, focus on addressing the most critical ones first (thermal shutdown, motors stuck) before moving to performance-related issues.
- Reboot: For many technical issues, a simple reboot of your Starlink system (unplug power for 20 seconds, then reconnect) may resolve the problem.
Remember that your Starlink dish is designed to operate in various conditions and has built-in protections. These alerts are part of that protection system to notify you of potential issues before they become serious problems.
