Transponder selection on Pathway X2

For DISH Network it really doesn't make that much difference. Any reception in the high 20's or above will produce the same quality picture.

I realize that it usually has a picture or not and the quality won't improve. I'm asking for the times that I might not be able to get a good enough signal to have it drop the signal.

Yes and no, you don't need to select the transponder manually (assuming you're subscribed to the DISH network). The DISH receiver will automatically select the satellite/transponder combination to give you the best available picture quality for the channel you're viewing.

The diagnostic screen that you're viewing is best used to help you locate the X2 around your campsite so that you get the best satellite signal strength at your current location (avoiding obstructions and tree cover).

When traveling, the eastern arch satellites (61.5 and 72) provide the best signal strength in the eastern states and the western arch satellites (110, 119, and 129) are best in the western states.

Selecting transponders is of no value. Each time you change channels the receiver selects the transponder on that satellite where that channel is broadcast. You can't pick it, the receiver picks it and it changes as you go through the channels.

Thanks for the info. I knew there were people on here that knew way more than I could ever hope to. Thanks!