Match XMLTV programmes to the right channel
Inspect one channel identifier and one programme record before remapping your electronic programme guide.
IPTVBlogs editorial desk · 
Read the identifier that actually links the records
An XMLTV channel has an id and one or more display names. A programme refers to the channel through its channel attribute. The ID is the join. A familiar name, logo or number is only a label. Players may use their own matching rules when connecting a playlist to that ID.
| Field | Example | What it tells you |
|---|---|---|
| Channel ID | station.city.example | Identifier inside this schedule |
| Display name | City One HD | Label shown to a person |
| Programme channel | station.city.example | Which schedule row receives the programme |
| Start | 20261113183000 +0000 | Source timestamp with offset |
Fix a single row first
Choose a station with a dependable schedule from the broadcaster. Open the guide mapping view if the app provides one. Match its exact regional feed to the relevant XMLTV entry, refresh and check an upcoming show. If you have both an eastern and western feed, label the region explicitly before reassigning the guide.
Watch for duplicate names and stale mappings
An import can retain an old manual mapping after a service changes its channel list. Compare whether a freshly added test profile picks a different match. Keep the existing profile while you test so you can preserve favourites. If the identifiers match but the published programme is wrong, send the broadcaster reference and timestamp to the schedule supplier.
Sources
Questions readers ask
Why does one channel show the wrong programmes?
Compare its exact regional feed and guide identifier. If other channels show the correct time, fix the affected channel’s mapping and verify a known programme before adjusting the whole guide.
What does a channel ID do in XMLTV?
The programme entry points to a channel ID. That identifier connects the programme to a schedule row. A display name is separate and can be shared by different regional versions.
Which identifier should I share when the schedule belongs to another channel?
Share the broadcaster, regional edition, visible channel name and public or redacted guide ID. Include one programme with its expected time. Remove private server addresses and tokens from exported files before sharing.