The growing number of satellite channels has given viewers more choices than ever before, but it has also made keeping an organized and updated receiver increasingly important. New broadcasts can appear at any time, while existing channels may adjust their transmission settings or move to different parameters.
When a channel cannot be found, the problem is not necessarily related to the frequency itself. Signal strength, dish alignment, cable connections, and receiver configuration can all influence the result of a channel search and determine the quality of the final reception.
Our aim is to provide clear and useful information that helps readers understand these different factors. From frequency updates and manual scanning to reception problems and receiver adjustments, this guide offers practical guidance for a smoother satellite television experience.
Arena Action is a popular Bulgarian tv channel specializing in high-octane action series, movies, thrillers, and adrenaline-packed entertainment. As part of the Arena Select package offered by Vivacom and Bulsatcom platforms, it delivers engaging content aimed at viewers who enjoy dynamic storytelling, crime dramas, and blockbuster action films. The channel is available in standard definition (SD) MPEG-4 format with Bulgarian sound, making it a favorite among Bulgarian audiences and the diaspora across EU region.
As of April 2026, Arena Action is actively airing on two primary satellite positions, providing reliable range primarily across EU region through Ku-band beams. These transmissions support both pay-TV platforms (Bulsatcom on Hellas Sat and Vivacom on Hotbird) with conditional access encryption (Conax / Nagravision / Irdeto / Videoguard).
Current Technical Parameters
1. Hellas Sat 3 at 39.0° East (EU region Beam)
This is the main transponder for Bulsatcom subscribers:
- Satellite: Hellas Sat 3 (39.0° East)
- Frequency: 12194 MHz
- Polarization: H (Horizontal)
- Symbol Rate (SR): 30000 Ksps
- FEC: 5/6
- Modulation: DVB-S2 / 8PSK
- Video Format: MPEG-4 SD
- Video PID: 836
- Audio PID: 837 (Bulgarian – AAC)
- Service ID (SID): 40
- Beam: EU region Ku / BSS
- Encryption: Conax + Nagravision (Bulsatcom package)
- Update: Active since November 2026 with ongoing stability into 2026
This transponder is part of a busy multiplex carrying other Bulgarian channels, including Bulgaria On Air, Arena Comedy, Arena Life, and additional entertainment services.
2. Hotbird 13F at 13.0° East (South East Beam)
This frequency serves Vivacom platform viewers:
- Satellite: Hotbird 13F (13.0° East)
- Frequency: 12616 MHz
- Polarization: H (Horizontal)
- Symbol Rate (SR): 30000 Ksps (or nearby variations reported as 12635 V in some multiplex information)
- FEC: 5/6 or 3/4 depending on exact mux configuration
- Modulation: DVB-S2 / 8PSK
- Video Format: MPEG-4 SD
- Language: Bulgarian
- Beam: South East
- Encryption: Irdeto / Videoguard / Nagravision (Vivacom / EON SAT package)
- Update: Activated or confirmed in November 2026 and remains operational in 2026
The Hotbird position offers excellent range across EU region, the Middle East, and North Africa, making Arena Action accessible to a wider local audience through the Vivacom premium packages.
Availability on Other Satellites
As of the latest satellite tracking data in April 2026, Arena Action does not have confirmed unencrypted (FTA) or additional transmissions on other primary orbital positions. Its broadcasts are concentrated on the two key European satellites: Hellas Sat 3 (39°E) and Hotbird 13F (13°E). No active signals have been recorded on popular alternatives such as Nilesat, Arabsat, Eutelsat 7°E, Intelsat 45°E, or other African/Middle Eastern footprints.
This focused distribution strategy allows the channel to optimize bandwidth within established Bulgarian pay-TV platforms while ensuring high-clarity delivery to targeted viewers. Satellite operators occasionally reorganize multiplexes, so parameters may see minor adjustments.
Reception Tips and Equipment Recommendations
To receive Arena Action clearly and reliably:
- Dish and LNB: A standard Ku-band antenna with a Universal LNB is ideal. In most European range areas, a antenna size of 60–90 cm provides strong transmission clarity. In fringe zones or for marginal reception (e.g., parts of the Middle East or North Africa), consider upgrading to 1.0–1.2 meters.
- Receiver Requirements: Any modern DVB-S2 compatible satellite device that supports 8PSK modulation and MPEG-4 decoding. For encrypted viewing, a valid subscription card or CAM module for Conax, Nagravision, Irdeto, or Videoguard is required depending on the platform (Bulsatcom or Vivacom).
- Alignment:
- For 39° East (Hellas Sat 3): Point toward the southeast with accurate azimuth and elevation based on your location.
- For 13° East (Hotbird 13F): This is a very popular position with many channels; positioning is generally straightforward for viewers already receiving Hotbird services.
- Signal Quality: Both beams deliver robust EIRP levels across Central and Eastern EU region. In Cairo, Egypt, or similar latitudes, a well-aligned 80–90 cm Ku-band antenna pointed at 13° East or 39° East should achieve steady reception, though transmission strength may vary with local weather and obstacles.
For viewers in Cairo or Egypt: The Hotbird 13° East position is particularly favorable due to its wide South East coverage. Ensure a sharp line-of-sight to the southeast and use high-clarity coaxial wire to minimize transmission loss.
Why Satellite Distribution Enhances Channels Like Arena Action
Satellite airing remains a cornerstone for premium entertainment channels, offering uninterrupted high-clarity transmission independent of internet connectivity. For Arena Action, this means consistent delivery of fast-paced content to households across Bulgaria and neighboring countries, even in areas with limited broadband. The encrypted nature protects premium programming while allowing platform operators to bundle it effectively with other Arena channels (Arena Comedy, Arena Life, Vivacom Arena).
In today’s media landscape, combining satellite with IPTV or app-based streaming creates a hybrid experience. However, satellite ensures reliability during peak viewing times and primary events.
Best Locations for Installing a Dish to Avoid Obstructions
- Select a location with a clear line of sight toward the target satellite.
- Avoid trees, nearby buildings, walls, and other objects blocking the dish.
- Choose a stable position that allows convenient access for maintenance.
- Inspect the surrounding area before permanently fixing the mounting bracket.
