Samsung Electronics Co DIRECTV DIRECTV DVR User Manual Users Guide DTV3 1
Samsung Electronics Co Ltd DIRECTV DVR Users Guide DTV3 1
Contents
- 1. Users Manual 1
- 2. Users Manual 2
- 3. Users Manual 3
- 4. Users Manual 4
Users Manual 1
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Press the DIRECTV button once to go to DIRECTV Central, or twice to
go to the Now Playing List.
LIST brings you directly to the Now Playing List.
Press FWD (fast forward) and BACK (rewind) up to 3 times for 3
speeds. Press them a fourth time to resume normal play.
INSTANT REPLAY replays the last 8 seconds of a program.
Press CLEAR to delete a title in a list (like the Now Playing list) or to
clear things that aren’t part of the program you’re watching (like
the channel banner and status bar).
INFO brings up the channel banner. Press the RIGHT arrow
to switch among three versions of the banner, each with a
different amount of information.
CHAN UP/DOWN does more than change the channel—it also pages
up or down through lists of programs or menu items.
Hints & Shortcuts DIRECTV Button
Window
Arrow Buttons
Exit
List
Select
Thumbs Down
Mute
Volume
Play
Pause
Back (rewind)
Slow
Instant Replay
Number Buttons
Clear
Remote Active Light
Live TV
Info
Guide
Thumbs Up
Chan Up/Down
Record
Fast Forward
Advance
SAT/TV Switch
Enter/Last
TV Power TV Input
Press GUIDE to see the DIRECTV Advanced Program Guide™, then
press INFO (while the guide is visible) to see Guide Options and
change the day or time, or show only a category of programs.
EXIT clears all menus and goes to the last channel or recorded
program you were watching. If you press it while you are
watching a program, it clears things that aren't part of the
program (like the channel banner and status bar).
ADVANCE moves you quickly through saved programming. Press it
while you are fast forwarding or rewinding to jump to the next
tick mark on the status bar.
When you’re watching “behind” live TV (for example, if you
paused live TV and later resumed watching from the paused
spot), ADVANCE catches you up to the live broadcast. In a
recorded program, press it once to jump to the end of the
program, then again to jump to the beginning.
If you program your remote control (as explained in chapter seven),
the TV POWER, VOLUME, MUTE, and TV INPUT buttons can
control your TV and A/V equipment.
The SAT/TV Switch sets the remote control to send channel
changing signals to either the DVR (SAT) or the television (TV).
Many of the remote control’s buttons are disabled when this
switch is set to TV (for example, SLOW, FAST FORWARD and
PAUSE), so if your remote control doesn’t seem to be working,
check to make sure this switch is set to SAT.
The WINDOW button is for future use.
Inserting Batteries in the Remote Control
Hold the remote with the battery door facing you. Place your thumb
in the depression of the door and slide the door towards you.
Insert two AA batteries (supplied). Be sure to match the + and -
marks on the batteries to the + and - marks in the compartment.
Replace the battery door by sliding it back into the case with the
tabs towards the rear of the compartment. You’ll hear a click
when it’s securely back in place.
To use the DIRECTV® DVR's on-screen menus: Use the remote
control’s arrow buttons to move the highlight bar onto the
option you want, then press SELECT.
The LEFT arrow button often takes you to a previous screen.
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Select
Arrow Buttons
Two Types of On-Screen Arrows
The On-Screen Menus and the Remote Control
The arrows that appear beside or near the highlight
bar show possible directions. For example: on this
screen, you could press the RIGHT arrow to highlight
Options or the DOWN arrow to highlight Edit
Keyword WishList.
Highlight Bar
Arrows Near
Highlight Bar
When you see page up or page
down arrows at the top or
bottom of the screen (or a list),
press the CHAN UP/DOWN
button to jump to more items
an entire page at a time.
Page Up Arrow
Page Down Arrow
Chan Up/Down
Button
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Welcome to DIRECTV
ii
SDOC-00072-501 Rev. A
AH68-01335A
SAMSUNG ELECTRONICS AMERICA, INC.
HEADQUARTERS
105 Challenger Road, Ridgefield Park, NJ 07660-0511
TEL : 1-800-SAMSUNG
SERVICE DIVISION
400 Valley Road, Suite 201, Mount Arlington, NJ 07856
1-800-SAMSUNG(1-800-726-7864)
www.SAMSUNGUSA.com
DIRECTV and the Cyclone Design logo, DIRECTV SPORTS THIS WEEK, and
Advanced Program Guide are trademarks of DIRECTV, Inc., a unit of Hughes Electronics Corp.,
and are used with permission. All rights reserved. DIRECTV,
2230 East Imperial Hwy., El Segundo, CA 90245.
TiVo and the TiVo logo are a registered trademarks of TiVo Inc. The Instant Replay logo,
the Jump logo, TiVolution Magazine, Season Pass, WishList, Overtime Scheduler,
the Thumbs Down logo and text, the Thumbs Up logo and text, TiVo and Line Design (smile)
are trademarks of TiVo Inc. 1999, 2000. All rights reserved.
TiVo Inc., 2160 Gold Street, P.O. Box 2160, Alviso, CA 95002-2160.
Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories.
“Dolby” and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.
All other trademarks are the properties of their respective owners.
© 1999, 2002 by TiVo Inc. Reproduction in whole or in part without
written permission is prohibited.
iii
Welcome to the DIRECTV family!
DIRECTV offers you more Hollywood hits, classic movies, family programming, news, and
a wide range of exciting sports action. Plus access to 36 commercial-free audio channels.
And that’s only the beginning.
More Choices than ever before.
With access to over 225 channels, it’s easy to see why DIRECTV has become the
entertainment choice for millions of American families. And it’s all digitally delivered, so
you get digital-quality sound and razor-sharp picture every time you turn on your TV!
DIRECTV® Pay Per View movies and events.
With DIRECTV service, the main event is at your house! You’ll have access to great
movies, exclusive special live sports, concerts and special events. DIRECTV offers up to 55
different pay per view choices a day. There’s no need to order by phone. Just use your
remote control to give all your friends and family a front-row seat! (Phone connection
required.)
DIRECTV knows sports.
DIRECTV offers access to more sports than you ever thought possible. So you can follow
your favorite team across the country with our pro & college sports subscriptions.
DIRECTV will take you to the arena for the best sports has to offer. Tune to Channel 212 for
DIRECTV SPORTS THIS WEEK®.
With DIRECTV you're in control.
Your new DIRECTV® DVR brings you the hottest new entertainment technology,
including the DIRECTV Advanced Program Guide™, with up to 14 days of program
listings, and the ability to pause and replay live TV. Plus, with Pick Programs to Record and
the other incredibly powerful and easy to use features of your DIRECTV DVR service, you
will have a Season Pass™ to all your favorite programming.
iv
Table of Contents
Using this Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vii
Chapter 1: Connecting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2
Before You Begin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
Useful Terms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Cables and Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Setup Examples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10
Chapter 2: Guided Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23
Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
Satellite Dish Guided Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
Activate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
Phone Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Chapter 3: The Basics in 5 Short Tours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33
Tour 1: Play with Live TV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34
Tour 2: DIRECTV Advanced Program Guide™ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
Tour 3: Find and Record Your Favorite Programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
Tour 4: Search for New Programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
Tour 5: Now Playing List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42
Cool Things You Can Do . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
Chapter 4: Watching Live TV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45
Let’s Go! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
DIRECTV Advanced Program Guide™ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48
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Channel Banner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51
Play with Live TV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52
Status Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53
Music Channels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54
Standby . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
Chapter 5: Finding and Recording Programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57
Recording Programs: The Basics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58
Finding Programs to Record . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68
I Already Know What I Want to Record . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69
I Know What I Like . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73
Help Me Find New Programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79
Chapter 6: Messages and Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83
Messages from DIRECTV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84
Purchases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85
My Preferences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89
Recorder & Phone Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99
System Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106
Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107
Restart or Reset System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
Chapter 7: Programming the Remote Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .109
Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110
Instructions: TV Power, Volume, and TV Input . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111
Resetting the Programmable Buttons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114
Setting a Remote Address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115
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Chapter 8: Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .117
Contacting Customer Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118
Questions About Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
Questions About Live TV (Including Satellite Signal) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120
Questions About Pick Programs to Record . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125
Questions About Parental Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131
Questions About the DVR’s Phone Calls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132
Questions About Audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135
Questions About Pay Per View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136
Questions About the Remote Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138
Questions About the DVR Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139
Chapter 9: Warranty and Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .141
Limited Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142
FCC Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144
Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 146
Safety Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148
Appendix A: Back Panel Reference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .151
Appendix B: GNU General Public License . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .155
Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .161
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Using this Guide
This User’s Guide describes how to connect your new DIRECTV® DVR to your
television and other audio/video equipment. It also provides valuable information about
the features and use of the DVR.
Glossary of Icons. The inside front cover of this guide provides an introduction to the
remote control. The inside back cover has a “Glossary of Icons” that explains many of the
graphic symbols you will see when using your DVR.
Useful Terms. Many of the technical terms you may encounter in this guide are explained
in the “Useful Terms” section beginning on page 5.
Screen Paths. Notes at the bottom of some pages show you how to find the screen being
discussed on that page. For example, page 70 describes the “Record by Time or Channel”
feature. At the bottom of the page is the note “DIRECTV Central Pick Programs to
Record Record by Time/Channel” This note means you can find Record by Time/
Channel, the screen being discussed, by going to DIRECTV Central (press the DIRECTV
button on your remote control) and selecting Pick Programs to Record, then Record by
Time/Channel.
DIRECTV® DVR with TiVo® Service. The recording service provided through the
DIRECTV® DVR.
DIRECTV DVR. Refers collectively to the satellite antenna receiver and the DVR hardware.
Throughout this guide, you will see
important and helpful notes and
tips in this format.
viii
The TiVo Logo. As you use your DIRECTV DVR, you’ll see the TiVo logo in places like
the Now Playing List and TiVo Suggestions. Your new DVR incorporates the latest DVR
(Digital Video Recorder) technology from TiVo. This means you have access to exclusive
TiVo features such as WishList™ searches, Season Pass™ recordings, Thumbs Up™ and
Thumbs Down™, TiVo Suggestions, and TiVolution Magazine®, all in one seamlessly
integrated product that will change the way you watch television.
Getting Started
After a satellite dish antenna has been installed, you’re ready to start using this guide:
1. Connect the DVR according to the proper setup for your Audio/Video equipment. (See
chapter 1, “Connecting.”)
2. Complete Guided Setup to point your satellite dish antenna and activate the
DIRECTV® DVR with TiVo® service following the instructions in chapter 2, “Guided
Setup.”
Start using your DIRECTV DVR. It’s easy! Learn the basics by browsing the back of the
Start Here card. Take the five tours in chapter 3 of this User’s Guide for an interactive
way to learn about the DVR’s powerful features. Chapters 4, 5, 6, and 7 describe the DVR
service in detail. Read through them to become familiar with the service. Chapter 8
provides a comprehensive troubleshooting guide in case you have questions.
Before you install the DVR, mount
the satellite dish antenna.
Professional installation is highly
recommended. Your dish must be
mounted, with cables running to the room
where your DVR will be installed, before
you can begin the DVR installation as
described in this guide. Dual LNB dish
antenna connection required for full
functionality.
CHAPTER
1
Connecting
Overview 2
Before You Begin 3
Useful Terms 5
Cables and Accessories 9
Setup Examples 10
2
Chapter 1 Connecting
Overview
TV used to be simple: no color, no digital video, no stereo sound, no digital audio, no
choices. All you needed was an antenna and a TV. The antenna captured pictures and
sounds. A wire connected the antenna to the TV to transfer pictures and sounds.
As televisions have acquired more features, and new devices have been created to work
with them, it may seem that everything has become more complex. Fortunately, the
fundamentals haven’t changed. You may have a VCR, a DVD player and a game system,
in addition to a satellite dish antenna. However, one thing has remained the same: what
you need to do is get the pictures and sounds from their source (the satellite dish antenna)
to your TV.
You use cables to make a path over which the pictures and sounds travel from your
satellite dish antenna to your TV.
On the back of your equipment you will find several jacks. Some are labeled IN and some
are labeled OUT. The pictures and sound enter a piece of equipment through a cable
connected to an IN jack and leave through a cable connected to an OUT jack.
When you connect your DIRECTV® DVR to your television and other audio/video
equipment, you are simply creating a path that starts at the satellite dish antenna and goes
in (through IN jacks) and out (through OUT jacks) of your equipment until it reaches
your TV.
Jacks are places where cables can
be connected.
OUT IN
Always connect cables from the
OUT jack of one device to the IN
jack of the next. Never connect an IN to an
IN or an OUT to an OUT.
3
1
Before You Begin
Before You Begin
Make sure that all of your equipment is turned off and the DIRECTV DVR is unplugged.
Connecting to a Phone Line
You will need access to a standard analog phone jack. Your DVR needs to be connected to
a phone line to communicate with DIRECTV. The DVR occasionally makes a brief
phone call to get updates to the DVR service and Showcases, and for pay per view
functionality.
You do not need to install a new telephone jack or phone number for the DVR to work; it
can detect when your phone line is in use and will only make calls when the phone line is
available. If you don’t have a phone jack nearby, you can use the 25 foot phone cord that
ships with the DVR. If your phone jack is being used for a phone, you can use the
provided splitter to connect both the phone and the DVR to the same phone jack.
Connecting a Dual LNB or a Multi-Satellite Dish Antenna
Your DVR comes equipped with two jacks for satellite input. While the DVR will work if
connected to only one satellite input, connecting both allows you to record from two
channels at the same time. All of the connection examples in this chapter give instructions
for configuring the DVR with connections to both satellite input jacks.
Both a Round Dual LNB dish antenna and an Oval 2 or 3 satellite dish antenna connect to
at least two coaxial RF cables. To connect both of your DVR’s satellite input jacks, you
must have two coaxial RF cables coming from your satellite dish antenna to the room
where the DVR will be installed.
Your DVR should not be used with
a digital PBX phone system. Doing
so may permanently damage your DVR’s
modem and will void your warranty.
Digital PBX phone systems allow many
phones to share a single telephone
number and are usually used in hotels and
office buildings. If you are installing the
DVR in your home, it is very unlikely that
you are using a digital PBX phone system.
If you have a Single LNB satellite
dish antenna, you will need to
upgrade to a Dual LNB for full
functionality. Contact your satellite dish
antenna manufacturer for more
information about upgrading.
Your DIRECTV DVR is multi-satellite
capable if used with a DIRECTV
Multi-Satellite Dish Antenna,
not included.
4
Chapter 1 Connecting
If you currently own a Dual LNB satellite dish antenna that is already connected to two
TVs, you can purchase a multiswitch (described on page 6) that will allow you to connect
two cables to your new DVR as well as one to an existing receiver for your second TV.
Using an Antenna or Cable Connection, in Addition to DIRECTV Programming
If you have an antenna or cable connection in addition to your satellite dish antenna, you
can watch antenna or cable channels while recording DIRECTV® channels. However,
recording and other features (such as parental controls, purchasing pay per view programs,
viewing on-screen menus, or pausing live TV), do not work on cable or antenna channels.
Caring for your DIRECTV DVR
Do not drop. Your new DVR contains a hard disk drive that is constantly in motion; it
may be damaged if the DVR falls or is dropped. Place the DVR in a stable location.
Unplug before moving. To prevent damage to sensitive components such as the hard disk
drive, always unplug your DVR and then wait a moment for the hard disk to stop spinning
before moving it.
Do not stack. Your DVR is NOT designed to carry the weight of other consumer
components such as VCRs, DVD players, or A/V receivers.
Flat, hard surface. The DVR should rest on a flat, hard surface only. Do not operate it on
a carpet or other padded surface, as this can inhibit proper ventilation and cause the unit to
overheat.
Use a surge protector. Like all electronics equipment, your DVR can be damaged by
fluctuations in your power supply. Purchasing a surge protector is highly recommended. If
you purchase a surge protector that allows you to plug in both your DVR’s power and
your telephone cord, you may prevent damage to the parts of your DVR that are connected
to your phone line as well!
For information on how to switch
between watching antenna or
cable channels and watching DIRECTV
channels, see the connection example in
Chapter 2 that is most appropriate to your
configuration.
The DVR does not have an on/off
switch. To turn the DVR on, plug it
in. The DVR, like a clock or a refrigerator,
is designed for constant use and does not
need to be turned off. If you must turn it
off—for example, to move it—simply
unplug it. (The DVR does have an optional
standby mode, explained on page 55.)
Be sure to read the safety
instructions on page 148.
®
5
1
Useful Terms
Useful Terms
If you’re not an audio/video wizard, you may find yourself stumbling over some of the
names, features and functions of various pieces of equipment. Here’s a quick reference to
help you understand some of the terms you may encounter during installation.
Satellite Dish Antennas—Types and Terms
Round Single Satellite Dish Antenna, Oval 2 Satellite Dish Antenna, and Oval 3
Satellite Dish Antenna: The names Round single, Oval 2, and Oval 3 satellite dish
antennas refer to both the most common shape of the dish and the number of satellites
from which a dish can receive information. To determine what type of dish you have, look
at the arm extending out from the dish. At the end of this arm are one or more “fingers”
ending in mushroom shaped parts pointing back at the dish. A single satellite dish antenna
has one of these “fingers” pointing back at the dish, a 2 satellite dish antenna has two, and
a 3 satellite dish antenna has three. If you own a 2 or 3 satellite dish antenna, your DVR
will not work properly unless you have connected a multiswitch with at least four inputs
and two outputs. For a definition of a multiswitch, see page 6.
Single LNB and Dual LNB Satellite Dish Antennas: Single LNB and Dual LNB refer to
the number of independent signals a dish can send to your audio/video equipment. A
Single LNB sends one signal and has one jack, or connector, inside the arm extending
from the dish. A Dual LNB sends two signals and hpas two jacks. The easiest way to
determine what type of dish you have is to consult the documentation that came with the
dish. Disassembling the dish to determine its type is not recommended.
Satellite Receiver: A satellite receiver does what its name suggests and more. It
“receives” the signal from your satellite dish antenna, then translates it into a signal your
TV can understand, then sends it to the TV. Your DIRECTV® DVR has a built-in satellite
receiver.
Round Single
satellite dish
antenna
Oval 2
satellite dish
antenna
Oval 3
satellite dish
antenna
Single LNB
(Single Satellite)
Dual LNB
(Single Satellite)
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Chapter 1 Connecting
Dual Tuner: A tuner picks one channel out of all of your available channels. This allows
you to view a single channel and to change channels. “Dual tuner” means your DIRECTV
DVR has two tuners. It can pick out two channels at once, allowing you to record programs
on two channels at the same time.
Multiswitch: A multiswitch lets you use the signal from one satellite dish antenna for more
than two TVs. If you currently own a Dual LNB dish that is connected to two televisions, a
multiswitch will allow you to connect two cables to your new DVR as well as one to a
satellite receiver on your second television. If you own a 2 or 3 satellite dish antenna, your
DVR will not work unless you have connected a multiswitch with at least four inputs and
two outputs.
Access Card: Your access card contains information about your DIRECTV programming
subscription. It must be properly inserted and activated for your DVR to work.
Transponder: A transponder is a piece of radio equipment on a satellite. The DIRECTV
transponders receive information from DIRECTV and rebroadcast it to your satellite dish
antenna. Each transponder rebroadcasts a different set of channels. If the DVR does not
receive a signal for an individual transponder, it will not be able to show that transponder’s
channels. Each satellite may have a different number of transponders on it.
Cables and Connections
Composite Video and Left/Right (L/R) Audio Cables: Composite Video and Left/Right
(L/R) Audio cables may appear to be just one cable, but are actually three separate cables.
The yellow composite cable transfers video. The white and red L/R Audio cables, when
used together, transfer stereo sound. These three cables can be used together or separately.
For example, you could use an S-Video cable to transfer video and use white and red L/R
Audio cables to transfer audio. In this case, you would not need to use the yellow
Composite Video cable at all.
7
1
Useful Terms
Coaxial RF Cable: A coaxial RF cable transfers both audio and video on a single cable.
Optical (or Digital) Audio Cable: An optical (or digital) audio cable transfers audio only.
This cable transfers audio at the highest possible quality from your DIRECTV DVR to an
A/V receiver. If you have a home theater, own an A/V receiver capable of receiving
Dolby Digital audio, and wish to use Dolby Digital audio, then you must use this cable.
Not all A/V receivers with optical audio inputs are capable of receiving Dolby Digital
audio. An optical audio cable is not included with the DVR.
BNC Cable: A BNC Cable is similar to a coaxial RF cable and transfers both audio and
video. This type of cable is not included with your DVR. However, you may already be
using a BNC cable in an existing connection to your TV. If so, you can purchase an
adapter that will allow you to connect BNC cables to the RF In or RF Out jacks on your
DVR.
Telephone Line Splitter: The included telephone line splitter allows you to plug both a
telephone and your DVR into a single telephone wall jack.
Video, Audio, and Electronics Equipment and Terms
Switch Box: A switch box is a small box that allows you to connect multiple devices to
your TV, even if your TV does not have enough input jacks to connect them all directly. It
allows you to switch easily between viewing DIRECTV channels, viewing video from
your DVD player, or running your game system. Switch boxes are inexpensive and can be
purchased at electronics stores.
A/V Receiver: An A/V receiver is similar to a switch box but is more sophisticated. It may
offer additional features such as remote control or Dolby Digital audio capabilities. An
A/V receiver allows you to connect multiple devices to your TV, even if your TV does not
have enough input jacks to connect them all directly. It allows you to switch easily
8
Chapter 1 Connecting
between viewing DIRECTV channels, viewing video from your DVD player, or running
your game system by changing the input source.
Dolby Digital Audio: Dolby® Digital audio is recorded on six separate channels, each of
which can be heard on one of six separate speakers. To use Dolby® Digital audio, you
must use an optical audio cable to connect your DIRECTV DVR to an A/V receiver
capable of supporting Dolby® Digital audio. Not all A/V receivers with optical audio
inputs are capable of receiving Dolby® Digital audio. You must also set your DVR to
record using Dolby® Digital audio. For more information, see page 96.
Dolby Surround Sound: Dolby® Surround Sound audio is recorded on two channels,
which can be heard on two or more (usually five) speakers. To use Dolby® Surround
Sound audio, you must have an A/V receiver capable of supporting Dolby® Surround
Sound audio connected to your DVR using either L/R Audio cables or an optical audio
cable.
Digital PBX Phone System: Digital PBX phone systems allow many phones to share a
single telephone number and are usually used in hotels and office buildings. If you are
installing the DVR in your home, it is very unlikely that you are using a digital PBX phone
system. Do not connect your DVR to a digital PBX phone system. Doing so may
permanently damage your DVR’s modem and will void your warranty.
Surge Protector: Surge protectors are devices that protect electronic equipment from
power fluctuations. Like all electronics equipment, your DVR can be damaged by
fluctuations in your line voltage. Purchasing a surge protector is highly recommended. If
you purchase a surge protector that allows you to plug in both your DVR’s power and
your telephone cord, you may prevent damage to the parts of your DVR that are connected
to your phone line as well! Surge protectors can be purchased at hardware, electronics, or
general merchandise stores.
9
1
Cables and Accessories
Cables and Accessories
In addition to your television and the equipment that shipped with this DIRECTV DVR
(shown below), you’ll need a satellite dish antenna—which should be properly mounted
before you connect the DVR—and a standard, analog phone line (see page 3 for details).
Composite A/V Cable
25' Phone Cord
Power Cord
RF Coaxial Cable
1. These are the basics: 2. See page 10 to choose
audio/video cables. The carton
contains one of each of the
following:
3. You may need to purchase
these additional items for
some setups:
Extra RF Coaxial Cable
DVR DIRECTV Access Card
Remote Control
and 2 AA
Batteries
Extra Composite A/V
Cables
Phone Line Splitter
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Chapter 1 Connecting
Setup Examples
Audio and Video Cables
Composite. Many TVs and VCRs have connectors for Composite A/V cables. If your
equipment has them, you can use the Composite A/V cables for both audio and video.
RF Coaxial. Some TVs only have connectors for RF Coaxial cable. If your TV only has an
RF connector, use the RF Coaxial cable for both audio and video and see Example 4 on
page 18 (or see Example 1 on see page 12 if you also have a VCR):
S-Video. If you have S-Video connectors on your equipment, and want the highest quality
video, use the included S-Video cable. The S-Video cable carries a video signal. You can
connect the red and white ends of a Composite A/V cable to carry the audio signal.
If your TV has only one audio
connector, connect just the white
and yellow ends of the Composite A/V
cable (don’t connect the red end).
Composite Video
and L/R
Audio Cables
Connect to
Composite Video
and L/R Audio Jacks
(yellow)
(white)
(red)
Coaxial RF
Cable
Connect to RF or
VHF/UHF jack
Connect to S-Video
and L/R Audio jacks
S-Video and Left/
Right Audio Cables
(S-Video)
(red)
(white)
(yellow)
11
1
Setup Examples
Digital Audio. The receiver includes a Digital Audio Out jack for compatibility with
Dolby Digital audio. To use this feature, you will need an optical audio cable
(not supplied), and a device that accepts Dolby Digital input. The optical audio cable will
carry the audio signal. To complete the setup, you'll also need a connection for the video
signal. You can use an S-Video cable to make the connection (for the best video signal), or
the yellow ends of a composite cable. If you use a composite cable, you do not need to
connect the red and white ends of the cable.
Ordinarily, your DVR produces tones to indicate when certain buttons on the remote
control are pressed or to indicate signal strength when you are positioning your dish. If
you use Digital Audio Out, you will not hear these tones.
Setup Examples
This chapter provides detailed examples showing how to connect the DIRECTV DVR to
your existing audio/video system. Choose the example closest to your configuration and
follow the steps in that section.
•Example 1: DVR with VCR, DVD and/or game system, and switch box or A/V
receiver (see page 12)
•Example 2: DVR with VCR (see page 14)
•Example 3: DVR only (see page 16)
•Example 4: DVR with VCR, antenna or cable, multiple input TV (see page 18)
•Example 5: DVR with VCR, antenna or cable, single input TV (see page 20)
If you have trouble or if your configuration isn’t covered by one of these examples, see the
“Back Panel Reference” on page 152.
12
Chapter 1 Connecting
INPUT
Audio
RL
Video Audio
RL
Video Audio
RL
Video
OUTPUT
RL
Video
Audio
RF
In
RF
Out
Ch
3/4
Audio RLVideo
OUT
IN
Audio R
Audio L
Video
RF
In
IN
AC~In
RF
Out
Ch
3/4
Audio RLVideo
OUT
DIRECTV DVR
Switch Box or
A/V Receiver
Television
DVD Player or
Game System
VCR
Example 1: VCR, DVD and/or Game System, and Switch Box or A/V Receiver
ᕡ
ᕢ
ᕣ
ᕤ
ᕥ
ᕦ
ᕧ
ᕩ
Note: Audio/Video cables shown are examples only. Use the best connections available on your equipment.
13
1
Setup Examples
Example 1: VCR, DVD and/or Game System, and Switch Box or A/V Receiver
1 Connect the coaxial RF cables from your satellite dish antenna to the DIRECTV DVR.
Connect one coaxial RF cable that comes from your satellite dish antenna to the jack labeled
“Satellite In 1” on the DVR. If you have a second coaxial RF cable from your satellite dish
antenna, connect it to the jack labeled “Satellite In 2.”
2 Connect the DVR’s output to the switch box or A/V receiver’s input.
3 Connect your switch box or A/V receiver’s output to your TV’s input.
4 Connect the DVR’s output to your VCR’s input. This will allow you to save programs
recorded on your DIRECTV DVR to videotape.
5 Connect your VCR’s output to your switch box or A/V receiver’s input.
6 Connect your DVD player and/or game system’s output to your switch box or A/V
receiver’s input.
7 Connect the phone line. (For more about the phone connection, see page 3.)
8 Insert the Access Card that came with your DVR. Open the card door on the DVR’s front
panel. Insert the card into the slot in the direction indicated on the card. Stop when the card
makes contact with the back of the slot, then you can completely close the card door. To
watch DIRECTV channels, you must insert the card correctly and activate it (activation is
covered in the next chapter).
9 Plug in all power cords. After you see the Welcome screen, skip to “Guided Setup” on
page 23. If you do not see the Welcome screen, see page 119.
To switch between watching
DIRECTV programming and
watching video from your VCR, DVD or
game system:
• With a switch box, press the buttons
on your switch box
• With an A/V receiver, use the “Input,”
or “Source” button on the receiver or
its remote control.
If you are having trouble changing the
video source, refer to the instructions that
came with the A/V receiver or switch box.
POWER REC STANDBY
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14
Chapter 1 Connecting
Example 2: DVR with VCR
To switch between watching your
VCR and watching video from your
DVR, you will need to use the “Input,”
“Source,” or “TV/Video” button on your
TV or TV’s remote control to change the
video source. Some TVs also have a
“Menu” button that allows you to change
the video source using an on-screen
menu.
If you have trouble changing the video
source refer to the instructions that came
with your TV.
RF
In
RF
Out
Ch
3/4
Audio RLVideo
OUT
IN
AC~In
Antenna
In
INPUT
VIDEO
RLS-VIDEO
VCR
Television
DIRECTV DVR
ᕡ
ᕢᕣ
ᕤ
ᕥ
ᕧ
Note: Audio/Video cables shown are examples only. Use the best connections available on your equipment.
15
1
Setup Examples
Example 2: DVR with VCR
1 Connect the coaxial RF cables from your satellite dish antenna to the DIRECTV DVR.
Connect one coaxial RF cable that comes from your satellite dish antenna to the jack
labeled “Satellite In 1” on the DVR. If you have a second coaxial RF cable from your
satellite dish antenna, connect it to the jack labeled “Satellite In 2.”
2 Connect the DVR to your TV. Look at the back of your TV and see what types of jacks
are available. Connect the DVR’s output to the TV’s input using the best connection
available. The example in the diagram shows a composite cable connected for audio and
an S-Video cable connected for video. The connection can also be made using only a RF
coaxial cable, or using only a composite cable.
3 Connect the DVR to your VCR. Connecting the DVR to your VCR will allow you to
save programs recorded on your DIRECTV DVR to videotape. The example in the
diagram shows an RF cable running from the DVR’s output to the VCR’s input.
4 Connect your VCR’s output to your TV’s input. This will allow you to watch
videotapes. The example in the diagram shows an RF cable running from the VCR’s
output to the TV’s input.
5 Connect the phone line. (For more about the phone connection, see page 3.)
6 Insert the Access Card that came with your DVR. Open the card door on the DVR’s
front panel. Insert the card into the slot in the direction indicated on the card. Stop when
the card makes contact with the back of the slot, then you can completely close the card
door. To watch DIRECTV channels, you must insert the card correctly and activate it
(activation is covered in the next chapter).
7 Plug in all power cords. After you see the Welcome screen, skip to “Guided Setup” on
page 23. If you do not see the Welcome screen, see page 119.
POWER REC STANDBY
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Chapter 1 Connecting
Example 3: DVR Only
AC~In
Antenna
In
INPUT
VIDEO
RLS-VIDEO
DIRECTV DVR
Television
ᕡ
ᕢ
ᕣ
ᕥ
Note: Audio/Video cables shown are examples only. Use the best connections available on your equipment.
17
1
Setup Examples
Example 3: DVR Only
1 Connect the coaxial RF cables from your satellite dish antenna to the DIRECTV DVR.
Connect one coaxial RF cable that comes from your satellite dish antenna to the jack
labeled “Satellite In 1” on the DVR. If you have a second coaxial RF cable from your
satellite dish antenna, connect it to the jack labeled “Satellite In 2.”
2 Connect the DVR to your TV. Look at the back of your TV and see what types of jacks
are available. Connect the DVR’s output to the TV’s input using the best connection
available. The example in the diagram shows a composite cable connected for audio and
an S-Video cable connected for video. The connection can also be made using only a RF
coaxial cable, or using only a composite cable.
3 Connect the phone line. (For more about the phone connection, see page 3.)
4 Insert the Access Card that came with your DVR. Open the card door on the DVR’s
front panel. Insert the card into the slot in the direction indicated on the card. Stop when
the card makes contact with the back of the slot, then you can completely close the card
door. To watch DIRECTV channels, you must insert the card correctly and activate it
(activation is covered in the next chapter).
5 Plug in all power cords. After you see the Welcome screen, skip to “Guided Setup” on
page 23. If you do not see the Welcome screen, see page 119.
POWER REC STANDBY
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Chapter 1 Connecting
Example 4: DVR, VCR, Antenna or Cable, and Multiple Input TV
To switch between watching
DIRECTV channels and antenna/
cable channels, or tapes on your VCR, use
the “Input,” “Source,” or “TV/Video”
button on your TV’s remote to change the
video source. Some TVs have a “Menu”
button and an on-screen menu that lets
you change the video source.
You can watch an antenna or cable
channel while recording a DIRECTV
channel. You will NOT be able use DVR
functions on antenna or cable channels.
You will also need to use your TV’s remote
control to change antenna/cable
channels.
If you are having trouble changing the
video source, refer to the instructions that
came with your TV.
RF
In
RF
Out
Audio R
LVideo
OUT
IN
AC~In
Ch 3/4
Antenna
In
INPUT
VIDEO
R
LS-VIDEO
DIRECTV DVR
VCR
Television
ᕡ
ᕢ
ᕣ
ᕤ
ᕥ
ᕦ
ᕨ
Note: Audio/Video cables shown are examples only. Use the best connections available on your equipment.
19
1
Setup Examples
Example 4: DVR, VCR, Antenna or Cable, and Multiple Input TV
If your TV has both coaxial RF and composite video inputs, follow this connection
example to connect your antenna or cable to your TV. You will NOT be able to use
DIRECTV DVR functions while watching antenna or cable channels, even if you connect
your antenna or cable directly to your DVR.
1 Connect the coaxial RF cables from your satellite dish antenna to the DVR. Connect
one coaxial RF cable that comes from your satellite dish antenna to the jack labeled
“Satellite In 1” on the DVR. If you have a second coaxial RF cable from your satellite dish
antenna, connect it to the jack labeled “Satellite In 2.”
2 Connect the DVR to your TV.
3 Connect the DVR to your VCR. Connecting the DVR to your VCR will allow you to
save programs recorded on your DIRECTV DVR to videotape.
4 Connect your VCR’s output to your TV’s input. This allows you to watch videotapes.
5 Connect your antenna or cable to the CABLE/ANTENNA RF In jack on your TV.
6 Connect the phone line. (For more about the phone connection, see page 3.)
7 Insert the Access Card that came with your DVR. Open the card door on the DVR’s
front panel. Insert the card into the slot in the direction indicated on the card. Stop when
the card makes contact with the back of the slot, then you can completely close the card
door. To watch DIRECTV® channels, you must insert the card correctly and activate it
(activation is covered in the next chapter).
8 Plug in all power cords. After you see the Welcome screen, skip to “Guided Setup” on
page 23. If you do not see the Welcome screen, see page 119.
“Multiple input” means the TV has
multiple input plugs for A/V
connectors.
Steps 2, 3, and 4 are shown
using composite and s-video
cables. You can make these connections
with other cables, as explained on page
10. Your DIRECTV DVR comes with one
composite and one s-video cable. To
complete the setup example as shown,
you will need to use cables that came with
your VCR, or purchase additional cables.
POWER REC STANDBY
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Chapter 1 Connecting
Example 5: DVR with VCR, Antenna or Cable, and Single Input TV
T
o sw
it
c
h
b
e
t
ween wa
t
c
hi
ng
DIRECTV channels and watching
antenna/cable channels, or watching
tapes on your VCR, use the “Input,”
“Source,” or “TV/Video” button on your
TV’s remote control to change the video
source. Some TVs have a “Menu” button
that allows you to change the video
source with an on-screen menu.
You can watch an antenna or cable
channel while recording a DIRECTV
channel. You will NOT be able use DVR
functions on antenna or cable channels.
You will also need to use your TV’s remote
control to change antenna/cable
channels.
If you are having trouble changing the
video source, refer to the instructions that
came with your TV.
AC~In
RF
In
RF
In
RF
Out
Ch
3/4
Audio RLVideo
OUT
IN
VCR
Television
DIRECTV DVR
ᕢ
ᕡ
ᕣ
ᕤ
ᕥ
ᕧ
Note: Audio/Video cables shown are examples only. Use the best connections available on your equipment.
21
1
Setup Examples
Example 5: DVR with VCR, Antenna or Cable, and Single Input TV
If your TV has composite video inputs, use the example on page 18. You will NOT be
able to use DIRECTV Receiver functions while watching antenna or cable channels.
1 Connect the coaxial RF cables from your satellite dish antenna to the DVR. Connect
one coaxial RF cable that comes from your satellite dish antenna to the jack labeled
“Satellite In 1” on the DVR. If you have a second coaxial RF cable from your satellite dish
antenna, connect it to the jack labeled “Satellite In 2.”
2 Use coaxial RF cable to connect the DVR’s output to your VCR’s input. Be sure to
select an output of channel 3 or 4 using the small switch on the back of the DVR. You will
then need to set your VCR’s output to the same channel (3 or 4), and tune your TV to that
same channel (3 or 4), to receive a signal.
3 Use coaxial RF cable to connect your VCR’s output to your TV’s input. If your VCR
is already connected to your TV, continue to Step D. Be sure to set your VCR’s output to
the same channel (3 or 4) that you set on your DVR.
4 Connect your antenna or cable to the RF In jack on the back of the DVR.
5 Connect the phone line. (For more about the phone connection, see page 3.)
6 Insert the Access Card that came with your DVR. Open the card door on the DVR’s
front panel. Insert the card into the slot in the direction indicated on the card. Stop when
the card makes contact with the back of the slot, then you can completely close the card
door. To watch DIRECTV channels, you must insert the card correctly and activate it
(activation is covered in the next chapter).
7 Plug in all power cords. After you see the Welcome screen, skip to “Guided Setup” on
page 23. If you do not see the Welcome screen, see page 119.
I
f
you
h
ave a DVD p
l
ayer or game
system in addition to your TV, VCR
and DIRECTV DVR, you may need to use a
switch box or an A/V receiver. A switch
box or A/V receiver will allow you to
connect all of your devices to your TV,
even if your TV does not have enough
input jacks to connect them all directly.
For more information about these devices,
see “Useful Terms,” on page 5.
POWER REC STANDBY
6
22
Chapter 1 Connecting
CHAPTER
2
Guided Setup
Overview 24
Satellite Dish Guided Setup 25
Activate 29
Phone Setup 30
24
Chapter 2 Guided Setup
Overview
Now that you have finished connecting your DIRECTV DVR, you are ready to begin
Guided Setup. When you first plug in the DVR, screens appear which display its progress
as it starts up. After a few minutes, you will see the Welcome screen, indicating that you
are ready to begin Guided Setup.
During Guided Setup, you will point your satellite dish antenna (if you haven’t already),
activate your DIRECTV programming and DVR service, and set up your DVR to access
service updates by phone. Guided Setup includes on-screen instructions. If you need
additional assistance, this chapter contains detailed directions.
Guided Setup includes three steps. They are described on pages 25-32.
1. Satellite Dish Guided Setup
2. Activating services
3. Phone Setup
Using the Remote Control
To complete Guided Setup, you use the remote control to move through screens and select
menu items that are on your television’s display. For an introduction to the remote control,
see “Introducing the Remote Control” on the inside front cover of this guide.
Welcome. When you first turn on your DIRECTV DVR, you will see a gray screen that
says “Welcome. Powering up,” followed by the Welcome screen (shown to the side).
Read the screen then press SELECT to move to the next screen.
If you do not see the Welcome screen, see page 119.
Satellite Dish Guided Setup is used
to test signal strength, position
the satellite dish antenna and configure
the DVR for use with a multiswitch or new
multi-satellite dish antenna.
If you have connected your
television or audio/visual
equipment only to the DVR’s digital audio
output, you will not hear any audio during
Setup, or at any time while you are
navigating through on-screen menus.
25
2
Satellite Dish Guided Setup
Satellite Dish Guided Setup
Satellite Dish Guided Setup tells the DIRECTV DVR what type of satellite dish antenna
you are using, so you must go through it at least once, even if you are only replacing a
DVR that was already working. Satellite Dish Guided Setup usually takes about five
minutes, plus whatever time you may need to position your dish.
Connect Cables. After you press SELECT on the Welcome screen, you’ll see a reminder
to make sure all cables are properly connected to the DVR and to your TV. Press SELECT
when you are ready to continue.
Satellite Dish Type. Choose the type of satellite dish antenna you have installed. If the
manual for your satellite dish antenna is available, you can find its type there. Most people
should select “Round dish (Single or Dual LNB).” The most important feature of this type
of dish is that it receives a signal from one satellite in the sky. Some manufacturers
produce a dish that receives a signal from one satellite but is slightly oval in shape. If you
have such a dish, choose “Round dish (Single or Dual LNB).”
An oval 2 satellite dish antenna can receive signals from two satellites. An oval 3 satellite
dish antenna receives its signal from three satellites. 2 and 3 satellite dish antennas are
always Dual LNB. To see the next screen, highlight the type of satellite dish antenna you
are using, then press SELECT.
Notice the progress bar at the
bottom of the screen. It can help
you keep track of how far along you are in
Guided Setup.
Most new satellite dish antennas
are Dual LNB. One cable extends
from a single LNB dish to a home; two
cables extend from a Dual LNB dish to a
home (or to a multiswitch).
Oval 2 satellite dish antenna Oval 3 satellite dish antenna
Round dish antenna
(Single or Dual LNB)
26
Chapter 2 Guided Setup
Satellite Connections. If you connected an RF coaxial cable to each of the DIRECTV
DVR “Satellite In” jacks, select “Two cables.” If you connected only one RF coaxial cable
(to the “Satellite In 1” jack), select “One cable.” To be able to record two programs at the
same time, you must connect an RF coaxial cable from the satellite dish antenna (or a
multiswitch) to both of the “Satellite In” jacks and then choose “Two cables” on this
screen.
ZIP Code. Use the number keys on your remote control to enter your ZIP code. The DVR
uses your ZIP code to determine the direction your satellite dish antenna should point. If
you make a mistake, press LEFT arrow to correct it.
Satellite Dish Direction. Based on your ZIP code and dish type, this screen shows
roughly how to position your satellite dish antenna. You will fine tune the position later on
during Satellite Dish Guided Setup at the Test Signal Strength screen. Before positioning
the dish, be sure the mast (the pole on which the dish is mounted) is straight up and down.
For 2 or 3 satellite dish antennas, the screen provides a required tilt in addition to side-to-
side (azimuth) and up-down (elevation) information available for round dishes.
Professional satellite installers are available in most areas to ensure correct installation. If
your satellite system was installed by a professional, the satellite dish antenna direction
should be correct. To see the next screen, press SELECT.
Satellite Checklist. The items on this list help ensure you receive a clear satellite signal.
To see the next screen, press SELECT when you are satisfied that each item is complete.
Test Signal Strength. You use this screen to check the strength of the signal received by
your satellite dish antenna. If you have two cables connected to the Satellite In jacks, it
shows you the signal strength for each connection. It lets you see the signal strength from
individual transponders one at a time. To be sure you receive all your channels, you
should check signal strength on all transponders.
A transponder is a piece of radio
equipment on a satellite. The
DIRECTV transponders receive information
from DIRECTV and rebroadcast it to your
satellite dish antenna. Each transponder
rebroadcasts a different set of channels. If
the DVR does not receive a signal for an
individual transponder, it will not be able
to show that transponder’s channels.
Satellites may have different numbers of
transponders.
27
2
Satellite Dish Guided Setup
Note: You can check signal strength while you adjust the position of your satellite dish
antenna. The signal strength meter on this screen provides audio feedback—a tone that
becomes higher pitched as the signal gets stronger. You may be able to turn the volume on
your TV up so you can hear the tone while you adjust your satellite dish antenna.
Alternatively, you might have someone watching the signal strength meter and then
reporting through a cell phone or walkie-talkie to the person who is adjusting the satellite
dish antenna.
• To change the currently selected transponder, use the UP arrow to highlight the
transponder number. Press the RIGHT or LEFT arrow to change the transponder. It is
best if each transponder has a signal strength above 60.
• If you have connected both Satellite In jacks, the signal strength for each connection is
shown. You should have a good signal on all transponders for both connections.
If you have a 2 or 3 satellite dish antenna, you should check the signal strength from
transponders on each satellite.
• To change the selected satellite, press the UP arrow until the satellite number is
highlighted. Press the RIGHT or LEFT arrow to change the satellite.
When you have finished, select “Done Testing Signal Strength.” If you cannot acquire a
good satellite signal, see Satellite Signal Troubleshooting on the next page.
Confirming Setup, Satellite Info. At each of the next two screens there is a short wait
while the DVR confirms your set-up then gathers a list of channels from the satellite.
28
Chapter 2 Guided Setup
Program Guide Data. Over the first 1 to 2 days, the DIRECTV DVR will gather and
process up to two weeks of program data from the DIRECTV satellites. Program data
includes program titles, times, channels, program descriptions, and more.
Many of the DVR’s features use program data. Although you may be able to use such
features immediately, you may not be able to find all the programs you are looking for
right away. If programs you are looking for do not appear in the program information,
check on them again after the DVR has been set up for a while.
Steps to Activate. This screen explains the next steps of Guided Setup, activation of
DIRECTV services. When it appears, press the LIVE TV button on your remote control
and go to the next page of this manual.
Satellite Signal Troubleshooting. If you encounter problems during Satellite Dish
Guided Setup, you will see an error screen with some suggestions. For example, you may
have made a mistake entering your ZIP code or your type of satellite dish antenna.
If you are trying to set up the DVR, choose one of the options that return to part of
Satellite Dish Guided Setup. For example, if you received the “Satellite Info Error,”
choose “Try Again to Acquire Information.” You can also repeat Satellite Dish Guided
Setup. This allows you to check that your ZIP code and satellite dish antenna type are
correct. If you repeat Guided Setup and still receive error notifications, it is possible that
your satellite dish antenna is not pointed correctly or the dish or multiswitch is miswired.
Check the cabling, or consult a professional satellite system installer.
If you are trying to bypass Satellite Dish Guided Setup—for example, if you are setting up
the DVR in a place without a satellite signal—the bottom choice on the error screens
allows you to continue without resolving potential problems. While you may receive
fewer or no TV channels, you can still watch previously recorded programs.
If the DVR is low on Program Guide Data,
this message at the bottom of the screen
tells you how much Program Guide Data it
has.
29
2
Activate
Activate
Now it’s time to activate services for your DIRECTV DVR. Before you make the phone
call:
• The DVR should be on, tuned to channel 100, and receiving a signal from the satellite
dish antenna. (Channel 100 shows preview programming from DIRECTV.)
• You will need: a valid service address, social security number, and a major credit card
(deposit or prepayment may be required). You will also need the 12 digit number on
your DIRECTV access card and the make, model, serial number, and 12 digit Receiver
ID number of your DVR, found on a label on the back of the DVR and on the System
Information screen. (Press the DIRECTV button, then select “Messages & Setup” then
“System Information.”)
•Important! The access card that came with your DIRECTV DVR must be inserted in
the appropriate slot in front of the DVR before you call. Also, be sure to tell your
customer care agent that you have a “DIRECTV DVR” and that you also want to
activate the DIRECTV DVR with TiVo service. Without the DVR service, your
DVR will not be able to record programs.
When you are ready, call 1-800-DIRECTV. After you have activated, you can begin
Phone Setup, the last step of Guided Setup, by pressing the DIRECTV button.
What does DIRECTV DVR with TiVo service provide?
The DVR service provides you with the ability to record programs, create Season Pass
recordings and WishList™ searches. It also gives you access to Showcases, TiVo
Suggestions, and several convenient ways to find programs to you want to record. Without
the DVR service, the unit functions only as a DIRECTV Receiver, without recording
capability.
Remember to place the access card
in the appropriate slot in front of
the DVR. See the setup examples in
chapter two for details.