Updated June 6th to include codes for both the RCA DTA800B and the DigitalStream DTX-9950.

Quick post to help others in a similar situation of needing to set up a CECB to be controled by a ReplayTV 3000 (Read subsequent posts by others to assist in setting up for other versions of the Replay that use different codes)

RCA Summary: Use IR blaster code 392, 533 or 5392 to control the it from the Replay!

DigitalStream Summary: Use IR blaster code 749, 819, 899, 8749 or 9749 to control it from the Replay!

Details:
Since I don't get locals with my DishNetwork package and the local analogs have always been less than perfect, I wanted to see what CECB's could be controled by the ReplayTV and have the locals integrated into the program guide somehow.

My situation: My replay had 2 of the 3 inputs used. RF for analog NTSC for locals, Line 2 for S-Video fed DishNetwork (no locals). Line 1 was unsed.

Basically to get it to work, I told the Replay that on the Line1 input I had a DirectTV (Local) box. I picked a prenamed box but it didn't work, so I manually configured the IR code.

For the RCA, I found that codes 392, 533 and 5392 all would turn it on or off during the setup menu. I left it at 5392 for the rest of my setup, so I don't know if 392 or 533 work better or worse.

For the DigitalStream, I found that codes 749, 819, 899, 8749 and 9749 all would turn it on or off during the setup menu. I left it at 9749 for the rest of my setup, so I don't know if the others work better or worse.

Then after the Replay downloaded the new channels, it placed them all at 1000 through 2000. I deleted everything other than my locals in that range.

All of my primary locals were already mapped to the correct channels. So selecting 1004 blasted 04 to the CECB causing it to switch to 04-1, and the Replay correctly switches to that input. Likewise 1015 sent 15 to the CECB switching it to 15-1. The guide lined up prefectly for the primary stations.

Of course, I have no ability to select the other sub-channels like 6-2, 6-3, 13-2, 13-3, since there is no mapping to a - button from the Replay, or anything that would have that encoded into guide information anyway.

Hope this helps everyone! Post to the thread with questions.

PS: I do not know what "brand" these IR codes actually relate to on the Replay. Does anyone have that info? Also I haven't yet tried to control the boxes directly using the CATV/VCR button mapping on the Replay remote either. I would assume this will be easy to set up.

Differences between the 2 boxes: The RCA was much faster to respond to selecting a new channel (within 1 second of the Replay switching to that input) than the DigitalStream which took about 4 seconds).

Directv local would probably be a better choice to use as a provider since if they do locals in your market the guide data for the main channel would be layed out correctly.

As far as selecting channels like 6-2, etc, if you set up a manual record for that input and set it to tune to 0062 for instance, the ir blaster will send 062 to the rca which will tune to 06-2. I was able to do this when I was testing out my unit which I identified to showstopper as a RCA directv receiver model dtc-100 or drd432.

Directv local would probably be a better choice to use as a provider since if they do locals in your market the guide data for the main channel would be layed out correctly.

Does Directv actually place your locals on their real channel addresses on their receivers?

I know Dish does not.. Dish assigns my locals in the channel 74xx block (7412 .. 7420), so assume the receiver would be blasted those numbers from the Replay, which then maps the locals into the 700 or 800 range depending on what's open when it sets up the guide initially.

If Direct does directly address them then that would work. I will play with the various providers and see if I can find one that has it. It would be nice if one mapped the digital sub channels with correct guide info as well, but I'd be surprised, plus we don't really watch the sub channels other than 1 (CW). We get CW, Weather, PBS-SD, PBS-XP/MN for a total of 4 sub channels other than the -1's.

Yes they are on the right channels if you select directv local instead of directv national same goes for dish.

Thanks satpro! Worked like a charm. Unfortunately downloading the program guide data takes forever using this option, since it pulls down almost 1000 channels vs the 70 I was getting before. BUT it now has my primary locals mapped correctly.

I updated the original post to reflect this.

Once you have caught up and downloaded the 8 days the nightly update shouldn't take much longer than normal.

Now if/when directv HD (local) adds sub channels to the guide data lineup you would get them mapped out to.

Thank you Replay3030Owner for your useful post. I got similar, but not identical results with my SonicBlue-branded ReplayTV 5080. I run the three-component "Progressive" outputs of the ReplayTV to a Sony 720i flatscreen.

Because not all Walmarts carry the RCA DTA800B, I bought one on the web from freedtvshop.com, which allowed me to use my $40 government coupon for the web purchase. Shipping was reasonable, and very fast. The website looked a little suspicious (that's an opinion, not an actual criticism of the company), but I was able to pay with PayPal, which seemed safe to me.

We have a chimney-mounted RadioShack OTA antenna that we've been using for analog TV. I already had a four-output DA in the basement to supply each component with the strongest possible signal. Now that we have a TV with a digital tuner, we get more OTA channels and plenty of HD programming-25 miles from New York City.

I followed your Local-DirecTV receiver setup plan for the RTV5080. (In my case, perhaps because the RTV has my zip code in it, it was called "DTV/New York".) However, blaster code 392 (which the RTV notes as serving receivers DRD222RD, DRD480RE, DRD515RB, DS412RE, and DTC100) did not turn on my DTA800B. Most of the other Replay-suggested codes didn't work either. But the very last IR code listed by the RTV, 7911A (but not 7911) worked. This has a note that it's for an UltimateTV receiver box. I also tried DirecTV/National, but it didn't really work, and I reset the RTV to DirecTV/New York.

It only took a few minutes to download the new program data from my AT&T DSL connection. I noticed that the existing record programs were "translated" to channels like 1002 from the previous channel 2. So I re-created all the standing recording instructions. The ReplayTV correctly tunes the RCA to subchannel -1 as wanted.

I have no audio complaints, but there's still a minor issue on video. Two of what I think of as the local channels (WNYW-5 and WPIX-11) have a flickering, segmented white line at the top of their live and Replay-recorded pictures. It looks like underscan or digital title data, but I'm guessing. I've just switched the DTA800B from "Widescreen" to "Fullscreen" mode in the hope of improving this. It may produce clipped images, however.

I get the impression that the ReplayTV is not going to turn on the RCA when the Replay is powered up. So I have turned off the auto power shutoff of the RCA box. I'm tempted to remove the RCA's cover and drill some more ventilation holes in it.

The flickering line is evident on two stations on my RCA as well. This is technically not a problem with the box (though they could do something to mask it). From what I've read over on the DTV tuner forum is that this line is program guide data for analog signals, and that it's actually your local station not blanking that particular line before sending it out over the DTV signal.

Since all analog sets overscan it's not seen on the analog set since it's drawn off-screen. But once the station (improperly) converts it to a digital image and it ends up being letter boxed or postage stamp boxed (depending on aspect ratio) with black above it, this now can be seen on any analog set since it's not overscanned.

So it's a combination of:
- Altered NTSC signal to send TV Guide data over a certain scan line
- Location station not masking the line from being converted to digital
- Local station not sending signal out that it's a 4:3 SD image instead sending it as 16:9 but only filling the center
- Receiver box getting improper info about source and thus rendering it as if it was 16:9 to letter boxed 4:3 analog output


Hope that makes sense. Complain to those stations that have it.

I found that code 0566 works on my ReplayTV 4500 series. Using CaptureIR, I figured out that is "RCA" protocol on device "7".
I used DISH local (Los Angeles) and made sure I removed the 100's of non-terrestrial channels.

The DTA-800B is available at Walmart
walmart . C0M/ catalog/product.do?product_id=8343230

Here are the steps I did:

The DTA box: RCA DTA-800B

Connect RCA DTA-800B composite video and audio output to ReplayTV input 1

On ReplayTV in "Menu" \ "Setup" \ "Network and Input Settings" \
"Change IN 1":
choose "Satellite box"
choose "DISH Los Angeles" (or your metro area or DirecTV local seems to work - national will not give local stations)
Satellite Box brand": Other
On "available Code Sets" press the "Replay Zones" button.
change "Enable Fine Tuning" to "Yes"
Codeset: "0566" use the number keys on the remote to type the 4 numbers
Send Enter: yes
Minimum digits to send: 1
All the delays should be: 200ms

Change ANT/CATV should be changed to "Nothing Connected" (to prevent this new connection from have channels with 1000 added to them)

Then "keep all changes"
It will then download data for a few minutes.


On ReplayTV in "Menu" \ "Setup" \ "Add or Remove Channels"
make sure to delete the 100s of non-terrestrial channels so that only your local channels are displayed (and recorded)

Install the REPLAYTV IR Blaster cable and stick the transmitter right
over the DTA-800B IR Receiver. (Just to the left of the IR letters on the front panel

Just got the RCA box at Walmart. Thanks for the codes guys, but none seems to work for me. On the other hand, I haven't been using the IR blaster for years now. It may be defective. Is there way to do a diagnostic check to see if it's the cable or the port that is defective?

Just got the RCA box at Walmart. Thanks for the codes guys, but none seems to work for me. On the other hand, I haven't been using the IR blaster for years now. It may be defective. Is there way to do a diagnostic check to see if it's the cable or the port that is defective?

The best diagnostic I know of is to get another IR Blaster cable and try it.

Just got the RCA box at Walmart. Thanks for the codes guys, but none seems to work for me. On the other hand, I haven't been using the IR blaster for years now. It may be defective. Is there way to do a diagnostic check to see if it's the cable or the port that is defective?
What model ReplayTV do you have that is not responding?
Thanks

Just got the RCA box at Walmart. Thanks for the codes guys, but none seems to work for me. On the other hand, I haven't been using the IR blaster for years now. It may be defective. Is there way to do a diagnostic check to see if it's the cable or the port that is defective?

To see if it's sending any signal at all, point the IR blaster ends towards a digital camera or camcorder with a LCD or CRT based preview screen (not a direct glass viewfinder)

The IR frequency will be converted to a visible light seen on the preview screen -- any remote control will do this. If you can see flashes from a remote control but not from the IR blaster when it's being pulsed from the Replay Setup menu/changing channels, then it could be defective, if you've ruled out the obvious of not having it connected to the back of the unit, not configuring the Replay correctly, etc...

To see if it's sending any signal at all, point the IR blaster ends towards a digital camera or camcorder with a LCD or CRT based preview screen (not a direct glass viewfinder)

The IR frequency will be converted to a visible light seen on the preview screen -- any remote control will do this. If you can see flashes from a remote control but not from the IR blaster when it's being pulsed from the Replay Setup menu/changing channels, then it could be defective, if you've ruled out the obvious of not having it connected to the back of the unit, not configuring the Replay correctly, etc...

Great suggestion Replay3030. I used a digital camera and I can see my remotes send out signals, but not the IR blaster during channel changes. This means the either the IR blaster is defective or the port behind the unit is not sending out any signals to the blaster.

Can I just cut one of the IR blaster ends and place a voltmeter/ohm meter to it to see if the port actually send any signals out?

Sorry for the off-topic, but I just want to be able to control my new RCA DTA800B. Thanks for the help guys.

IR Remote's are not very expensive. E-Bay always has a bunch.

Great suggestion Replay3030. I used a digital camera and I can see my remotes send out signals, but not the IR blaster during channel changes. This means the either the IR blaster is defective or the port behind the unit is not sending out any signals to the blaster.

Can I just cut one of the IR blaster ends and place a voltmeter/ohm meter to it to see if the port actually send any signals out?

Sorry for the off-topic, but I just want to be able to control my new RCA DTA800B. Thanks for the help guys.
MAY NOT BE BAD BLASTER
Using Fuji camera, could visulize IR from most remotes but not Sharp or untested blasters which came with ReplayTV 5040 10 years ago too. I don't have the foggiest idea as to why this may be.

Got a new IR Blaster today and it worked with code 7911. Thanks for all the help guys.

Update:

This is what I did to my RCA DTA 800B with 4500 series. I live in Fresno, so my instructions are going to be a bit different from kirin's.

Connect the RCA's composite cables to line 1 input of the Replay.
On the Replay:
Press Menu, Setup, Network and Input Settings, Change IN 1, Satellite box, DISH Fresno, Continue when ready, Choose code 7911.

Remove all unwanted channels in "add or remove channels"


Problem: The Replay is able to tune (blast) the RCA to the correct channels but one - channel 61. It also can't blast 53, because 53 is actually channel 7.1. Is there a way to remap this channel to 7? Otherwise, I'd have to bypass this problem with a manual record.

Problem: The Replay is able to tune (blast) the RCA to the correct channels but one - channel 61. It also can't blast 53, because 53 is actually channel 7.1. Is there a way to remap this channel to 7? Otherwise, I'd have to bypass this problem with a manual record.

You can remmap using WiRNS. That will also give you access to subchannels. Also, using WiRNS you can use a local channel lineup as a satellite lineup so as to use the satellite IR codes but only have the local channels in the lineup...

Henry

Is there a list of coupon eligible DTV converter boxes that work with the IR Blaster on ReplayTV 3000/4000/5000 series other than the RCA converter?

If not, can we start one?

<EDIT>

Sorry guys, just found this thread:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1008500

Because of ReplayTV control, my DTA800B has had the Auto-Power-Off feature turned off. But after about two weeks of use, I discovered (upon watching a Replay-recorded show) that although the video was tuned and recorded correctly, there was no sound (and no hiss or noise) at all on the Replay recording. Upon viewing Live TV through the Replay, I found that the DTA800B had lost all audio output - no sound.

One cycling of the RCA's power button restored audio output. I hope this will not be a continuing problem. I doubt that I can return the unit because I made many additional ventilation holes in the case because it's on continuously! It does run a little cooler in the vertical postion, even though this puts the power supply at the bottom.

I believe that is a known issue with the RCA DTA800 models.

SUCCESS with a Replay TV 5040 controlled by an RCA DTA-800 using code 7911 purchased 5-19-08 at Walmart with downloaded programing for Seattle DirectTV on input 1 with RCA cables. The stock IR blaster had 2 emitters in series but I removed one and shorted the leads Xmas light fashion. The emitter is half over the converter's IR receptor and the remote works too. A Radio Shack infrared LED cabled to a mini-jack pluged into the back of the ReplayTV also works as a blaster (276-0143). I deleted about 1000 channels to expedite programing (I didn't know they had that stuff on TV).

Hi everyone, I am new to the AVS Forum. I have a ReplayTV 5060. I've read with interest at how some converter boxes can be controlled by the ReplayTV remote. However, since the DTV converter box controls what station is being received, I assume DVRs like ReplayTV or Tivo can no longer record shows from multiple channels if the converter box is only tuned to one channel. Is my assumption correct? I also assume that this applys to any other recorders like a an old analog VCR.

As an example, if the converter box is tuned to Channel 2 and either a VCR or DVR such as ReplayTV is set to record Channels 2, 5, 7, 9 at various different times, only the show on Channel 2 will be recorded and the others will have no signal.

Also, there was a lot of mention of IR or IR Blaster. I have never used this and don't know if the only way to get the ReplayTV remote and unit to recognize the new digital stations is to use this feature. Does that mean I have to buy some sort of IR cable or does IR mean that the DTV converter box can communicate with my ReplayTV Sonic Blue 5060 using InfraRed?

Please note that I do not have Cable or Satellite so I will only be receiving/watching on-air digital broadcasts. I don't know if some posts on this thread only applys to users with DirectTV Satellite.

Please let me know your thoughts. Apologies if this question has been answered in previous threads (have not been able to find this topic).

This thread is not about using the ReplayTV remote to control the DTV converter box, nor is it about satellite boxes.

It is about using the IR Blaster (which should have come with your 5060) to control the DTV box (for receiving over the air digital TV) so that the ReplayTV can automatically change the channel on the DTV box when it needs to record a show on a different channel.

So far, of the available DTV boxes, the RCA model has been proven to work with existing codes used by the ReplayTV's IR blaster.

In addition to the instructions in this thread, your ReplayTV manual should also explain how to use the IR blaster with an external tuner box.

The setup is a little tricky with DTV boxes since they have subchannels and the RTV does not know about them, which is why using DirectTV program listings and WiRNS is discussed in this thread to attempt to overcome that problem.

Thanks Space. It is good to know that RTV's IR Blaster CAN control changing channels on a DTV (specifically the RCA) converter box's channels to allow RTV's programmed show recordings to switch the converter box to the right channel. I will have to read this entire thread carefully (and buy and RCA box) to replicate this. I also have to look for the IR Blaster on my old RTV box. Thanks for clarifying (and for the good news that my RTV does not become obsolete in Feb 2009.

P.S. Since I don't have DirectTV, only RTV receiving over-the-air broadcasts, I can't take advantage of subchannels if I require WiRNS and DirectTV. This is an acceptable compromise/limitation since subchannels do not exist in today's analog broadcast.

P.S.S. I just checked Walmart's website for the RCA Digital TV Converter Box, DTA800 and it says "Not Sold Online" and "Not Sold in Stores". The FreeDTVShop.com site lists the RCA DTA800B as backordered and coupons can't be used on backordered items. It is also priced at $64.99 whereas Walmart's website lists theirs (albeit unavailable) for $49.87. Anyone have any ideas where I can get the RCA DTA800B since it is has been proven to work with an RTV recorder?

Finally, I just saw someone refer to the RCA DTA800 as an "A" or "B". Does anyone know the difference between the DTA800, DTA800A and DTA 800B? Thanks!

P.S. Since I don't have DirectTV, only RTV receiving over-the-air broadcasts, I can't take advantage of subchannels if I require WiRNS and DirectTV. This is an acceptable compromise/limitation since subchannels do not exist in today's analog broadcast.

It has nothing to do with DirecTV. The problem is that there aren't any lineups for the DTV box. So, people have been using the DirecTV lineup just to get the a way to get the OTA lineup and deleting the DirecTV lineup. The Replay has no idea what your video source is, you tell it whatever you want to tell it and it uses that lineup. Just like you can go to Zap2It.com and select any video provider you want regardless of if you actually have them connected to your TVs or not. So, selecting DirecTV is just a means to getting the OTA lineup, nothing more, and has nothing to do with actually having DirecTV or not...

Adding WiRNS gives two advantages, one, to only have the lineup of the OTA channels picking any video provider that you want, and, two, allowing you to program the subchannels as well. If you can find a Replay lineup that provides subchannels (has an extra digit in the channel numbers), then you don't need WiRNS and can just program everything through the Replay. But, since it is unlikely that you will find that, then WiRNS has the capability to add the extra digit to the channel numbers so that you can tune the subchannels as well...

Henry

The Channel Master CECB that's out now might also work with it. It uses an old Pioneer cable box code which is widely available in most IR blaster and remote control databases.


The Zenith also apparently uses an LG DirecTV satellite box code which can be found in some units, but not all. Check and see if your RTV code list has any of those specifically listed.

Here are the steps I did:

The DTA box: RCA DTA-800B

Connect RCA DTA-800B composite video and audio output to ReplayTV input 1

On ReplayTV in "Menu" \ "Setup" \ "Network and Input Settings" \
"Change IN 1":
choose "Satellite box"
choose "DISH Los Angeles" (or your metro area or DirecTV local seems to work - national will not give local stations)
Satellite Box brand": Other
On "available Code Sets" press the "Replay Zones" button.
change "Enable Fine Tuning" to "Yes"
Codeset: "0566" use the number keys on the remote to type the 4 numbers
Send Enter: yes
Minimum digits to send: 1
All the delays should be: 200ms

Change ANT/CATV should be changed to "Nothing Connected" (to prevent this new connection from have channels with 1000 added to them)

Then "keep all changes"
It will then download data for a few minutes.


On ReplayTV in "Menu" \ "Setup" \ "Add or Remove Channels"
make sure to delete the 100s of non-terrestrial channels so that only your local channels are displayed (and recorded)

Install the REPLAYTV IR Blaster cable and stick the transmitter right
over the DTA-800B IR Receiver. (Just to the left of the IR letters on the front panel

This is an AWESOME post!!!

I just have one very weird problem - ReplayTV (4040) is able to change to all channels except channel 30 - anybody has an idea?

Thanks!

Is the RCA DTA-800B able to tune to channel 30 with its original remote control? I have noticed that the RCA DTA-800B will not tune to a channel if it was not found in the original scan of channels.

Is the RCA DTA-800B able to tune to channel 30 with its original remote control? I have noticed that the RCA DTA-800B will not tune to a channel if it was not found in the original scan of channels.

yes - channel 30 works with the original remote with no problem.

Bump: I updated the original post to include codes for both the RCA DTA800B and the DigitalStream DTX-9950, the second box I've been able to successfully interface to my ReplayTV 3000.

The Radio Shack DTX9950 works great with the Replay 5040 using code 0899. No fussing with the fine tuning was required. I had problems with the earlier DTX9900 as discussed below.

The DTX9900 is a nice converter and the ReplayTV 5040 would activate it using code 0899. It would not control channel selection however. Regardless of hardware and positional changes double IR commands resulted in duplicated digits for channel selection. EG, the Replay would command channel 5 but the DTX would respond with 55. You could see the DTX was receiving multiple commands as its power light would flash repeatedly. No other codes made it work and I even checked the lettered ones. I tried codes 749, 819 as suggested for the 9950 above with no luck. My 5040 codes stop at 7999 so I could not try 8749 or 9749 or later key them in directly per Kiwin's instructions above. I took it back.
POSTSCRIPT: AT THAT TIME I WAS UNAWARE OF "FINE TUNING" NOTED BY KIWIN ABOVE. THE IR BLASTER TRANSMISSION MAY BE FINE TUNED BY PRESSING "REPLAY ZONES" IN SETUP. YOU CAN THEN KEY THE CODE NUMBER IN DIRECTLY. THERE ARE OTHER VARIABLES SUCH AS DELAYS, MINIMUM # DIGITS, AND "SEND ENTER" THAT CAN BE ADJUSTED. I WONDER IF TWEAKING THESE WOULD HAVE HELPED BEFORE I RETURNED THE UNIT.
If you buy one, try increasing the minimum number of digits transmitted to 3, verify "enter" is sent after the code, and increase intertransmission delay substantially.
I'd like to hear that this unit worked as I was impressed by it.

The box you want is the Channel Master CM-7000. That should work with anything with an IR blaster and even be able to change to subchannels. It uses a very common, old Pioneer cable box code.

Can you point to a confirmation of this, Rammitinski?

Somebody suggested the ReplayTV could tune subchannels on the CM-7000 here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13661768#post13661768) in the CM-7000 thread, but I believe they were misinterpreting what was posted here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13410712#post13410712).

So far I haven't found any direct report that the CM-7000 will respond to "three digits without a period" the way the RCA DTA800B does as reported in this thread.

Somebody just reported it yesterday or the day before. I didn't see it anywhere today as I was reading the new posts - I'll have to search for it.

They said you had to punch three numbers into the remote to change to a subchannel, because apparently there's no dash button on the remote. So any recorder that lets you set three-digit codes *should* work, I would think.

Okay, I think I found the answer. The "post 38" from the CM thread wasn't 100% conclusive but I believe the later poster interpreted it correctly in light of what's written in post 345 (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=14004369#post14004369) of the same thread.Must enter 022 to get channel 2.2 their is no . key on the remote.This is given as a negative in the post but from our perspective it may turn out to be a major positive.

I posted on another thread http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1008500 and have Channel Masters and RCAs hooked up to 5040s and working. I think the RCA is inferior and would like to replace it with the Digital Stream 9900. That is why I would still like to encourage someone to buy a DTX9900 and tweak the fine tuning. The Channel Master WILL NOT be tuned to subchannels by the ReplayTV 5040 no matter what I enter or what changes I make to the fine tuning. I will be happy to conduct any experiments on the CM-7000/5040 combination that you suggest. The Channel Master does have the S output, is very sensitive, and does work with the 5040; however it is slow and has a crude menu compared to the Insignia/Zenith which feels like a new computer by comparison.
John

adfree, over in that thread it sounds like you were punching 022 into the replaytv remote. This was interpreted by the replaytv as a request to tune channel 22, so it probably sent "22" over the IRblaster. If I'm right, I think you should try playing around with the minimum digits setting so that the replaytv will send 022 or 0022.

On the screen where you select a device for the IRblaster, select "other".
Then scroll to 0144 (I assume this is the code you used for the CM-7000) and press the replay zones button on your remote. This brings up the fine tuning screen. Set "enable fine tuning to "yes", then set "minimum digits to send" to 3 or 4. That should be all you need to do to test, but you might improve channel switching speed by setting "send enter" to "yes".

Hope this helps, and let us know how it works!

EDIT: Oh, wait, now I see in your post you haveI also tried changing the FINE TUNING to require a minimum of 3 digits to be sent without result.I missed that. Doesn't bode well.:(

So, to sum up the current state of things, if I understand correctly:

RCA DTA-800B: works, allows subchannels over IRBlaster
DTX-9900 and 9950: work with 2000/3000, but not 5040 (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=14024571#post14024571), and no subchannels over IRBlaster
CM-7000: works, but no subchannels over IRBlaster
Zenith DTT 900: will only work with later replayTV models (not 2000/3000 series) and requires some hacking to have any chance at subchannels
DTVPal: coming out soon, may work with Echostar codes, no telling if subchannels will be accessible without hacking

I'm still tempted to get the CM-7000 because it hasn't been tested with a 2000-series, and I can't understand why it'd respond "correctly" to three-digit entry from the remote but not from the IRblaster.

The Channel Master does have the S output, is very sensitive, and does work with the 5040; however it is slow and has a crude menu compared to the Insignia/Zenith which feels like a new computer by comparison.
John
I agree the menu is not as professional as the Zenith but if you compare it to the Digital Stream it sure looks good. I just wish they had used a larger font. The S-video out can't be beat though. I haven't noticed the CM to be slow. If you want slow try a DVDR with digital tuner. Their slower than molasses in January:D I'm not knocking the Zenith, it's just for me PQ and the nice guide trumps a cruder menu and any possible slower operation. JMO

Ewilen-It must be something with the Replay TV that omits sending the leading 0 in your example of 022, because typing 022 on the CM remote defenatly takes you to 2.2 after a brief delay. 22 will take you to 22.1 though. Sounds like the replay is ignoring the leading 0 in that case.

Actually thinking about this I would think you'd be ok if all your subchannels were above channel 9 because I would think the replay would allow you to type 103, which would take you to channel 10.3. Probably just doesn't like the leading 0.

Jeff, cliffcor's posts here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=14019543#post14019543) and here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=14033611#post14033611) do suggest that a three-digit code can be sent from a ReplayTV--albeit with wirns--and it will work as you say.

Also based on the experience some have had with the DTA800B it does seem the 2000/3000 will send 3-digit codes with leading zeroes.

So overall I don't think we can say yet if the CM-7000 will work as well as the DTA800B with a Replay 2000/3000.

Addendum re: DTVPal, this post (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=14083595#post14083595) isn't very promising for 2000/3000 owners but it might be useful for those with other models who can use wirns.

Since a 2000/3000 can't be operated easily through WiRNS so as to support subchannels, from the information you provided above, it sounds like in order to run the Channel Master from a 2000/3000, then you'd need two digit IR blasting such that channel 22 tunes to 22.1 on the CM instead of channel 2.2. Although, maybe setting the send enter appropriately will guarantee that you tune to 22.1 for channel 22...

Henry

Apparently the key is the leading zeroes. As I understand it, the CM treats "22" as 22-1 (this is how my digital stream works), but it treats 022 (or maybe 0022, I'd have to look again in the other thread) as 2.2. Sending enter doesn't seem to matter.

DTVPal: coming out soon, may work with Echostar codes....It's been confirmed that it will use a Scientific Atlantic cable box code.

Well, I just ordered a CM-7000 from Stark Electronic, but it could take a few days to deliver since they were backordered. If anyone is reading this and doesn't have to make a decision too soon, then you might want to wait for me to report back on Panasonic Showstopper PV-HS2000 compatibility.

I have a Showstopper that I just interfaced with a Digital Stream 9950. I am having problems with this setup. The SS keeps blue-screening (not all the time, but maybe 2 or 3 times during a half-hour show). The signal from the antenna is rather strong, and when I watch the same channels with the CECB connected into the TV, instead of having the CECB connected to the SS, I do not detect any interruptions or picture issues.

Any suggestions?

You may have already thought of this, but based on what you say I'd suspect a problem in the cable/plugs that connect the showstopper and the 9950. Or in the internals of the showstopper itself. Can you connect the 9950 to a different interface of the showstopper?

EDIT: Actually it might be helpful to set forth how the 9950 is cabled to the TV and showstopper respectively.

I have a Showstopper that I just interfaced with a Digital Stream 9950. I am having problems with this setup. The SS keeps blue-screening (not all the time, but maybe 2 or 3 times during a half-hour show). The signal from the antenna is rather strong, and when I watch the same channels with the CECB connected into the TV, instead of having the CECB connected to the SS, I do not detect any interruptions or picture issues.

Any suggestions?

I forgot to write this BLUE SCREEN problem with the 9950 in my review of it in that thread.

I have a Replay 3030 (should be obvious :) ) and I got the same Blue Screen issue with it numerous times, even with 90% signal strength with the DigitalStream. The RCA box never did this.

When I connected the DS to my Plasma directly, I saw an occassional completely black or frozen frame, in the area of 1/30th of a second.

I dont know if this was heat related (since I measured 119 degrees at the F connector on the tuner of the DS) or just a bad design problem on the DS.

I don't think it's the Replay causing the issue--just showing it, since the panel directly showed an apparent loss of sync.

Luckily I was just reviewing the DS 9950 for a friend. Guess I have to live with the occassional reboot on the RCA since it can work with the replay, where the Zenith doesn't seem to be able to even though I'd rather have that box.

I think Replay3030 has it right. My Showstopper has been flawless until hooking up this CECB. I even forgot there was a blue-screen, as I had not seen one for years.

It also frequently does not change the channel on the 9950 correctly with the IR blaster, especially when starting a recording.

IMO, the Showstopper is really not equipped to handle the 1000+ channels that are downloaded in the channel guide, when only a handful are going to be used. And removing those channels from the Add/Remove only HIDES them, it does not remove them being processed. Just not enough CPU/Memory to handle this task reliably.

I plan to remove all channels (no input), and hookup a dtvpal with manual recordings, unless some better suggestions are found. Manual recordings are certainly not preferred, but hopefully reliable. Right now, this is a joke. Good old analog CATV connected to the SS was a perfect experience, but Comcast will be getting rid of Analog service soon, and they continue (including next month, July) moving good channels up to the digital tiers, so continuing to buy Analog cable serves very little purpose.

Well, I got my CM-7000 today, hopefully I can test tonight.

I plan to wait and see on the effect of the digital transition on Showstopper. I don't even think we can say for sure, at present, what form of program info will be provided after February. It sure would be nice if they offer an OTA DTV listing so we don't have to use the satellite lineup.

Also, it's not clear what Comcast will do--they may not get rid of analog everywhere right away, and if they do, there will almost certainly be some sort of cheap QAM boxes for analog TV owners with basic cable. (Though at what cost for the box/service I can't say--I've seen discussion of this, but nothing certain.) So I see a possibility that the Showstopper will work with those boxes via IR blaster.

Interesting results here. I connected the CM-7000 with IR blaster code on my Showstopper 2000 to 0144 and customized it to use minimum 3 digits with DirectTV San Francisco as my "provider" on Line 1. (Customization is achieved by pressing the Zones button while the given code is highlighted.)

As noted elsewhere, this pushed all the ANT/CATV channels into the 10xx range without affecting the ability of the Showstopper to tune them normally. I.e., those are "virtual" channel numbers.

The Showstopper definitely can control the CM-7000 now, though the interaction between the units is short of ideal. Basically, if I tune to channel 5 on the Showstopper, it sends an IR code for 005 to the CM-7000, which is interpreted as 00-5 (useless). If I really want channel 5-1 OTA then I need to tune the Showstopper to 51, which causes it to send 051.

So as things stand, recording via the Program Guide will not work with the CM-7000. Manual recordings will be fine.

I would have thought that setting the IR blaster to send Enter after the channel number would speed channel switching, but it doesn't seem to help. I may play around with this some more.

Another issue is that the Showstopper's channel list "reinterprets" some channel selections. For example if I enter 111 because I want 11-1, the Showstopper sends 101 over the IR blaster because 111 and 101 are "associated" channels. This is hard to describe...basically they have the same programming but one is the HD version...or something like that. (You may have seen something similar with the appearance of LOOR (local origination) channels in the Program Guide, that duplicate existing channels.) Since the Program Guide really isn't doing anything for me anyway, I should probably try a different "dummy" service provider. Maybe there's another solution.

Another problem I anticipate with having the inclusion of a bunch of channels that I don't really get is that the Showstopper will attempt to record shows that appear on those channels if I use Theme-based recordings. Basically I need to delete all the "satellite" channels to prevent this.

It's interesting to compare interoperation with the DTX-9950. While we haven't found a way to get the Showstopper/ReplayTV IR blaster to tune subchannels with the Digital Stream, it will tune primary channels properly according to the Program Guide. So depending on how I want to use the Showstopper, there's a tradeoff.

OTOH an earlier post on this thread here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13598046#post13598046) about the DTA800B has me thinking that I might be able to have it both ways by changing the minimum digits setting.

About the DTVPal...
It's been confirmed that it will use a Scientific Atlantic cable box code.
Thanks.

BTW, my earlier post about how it handles subchannels was apparently misinformed. This post (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=14162998#post14162998) says that if you want channel 4-2 on the DTVPal, you must enter 0042. Based on this, tuning subchannels via IR blaster should be possible (as Rammitinski says in the same thread).

Not clear at this point what happens if you enter fewer than four digits and then just wait (or hit an enter key, if available). The behavior here may affect compatibility with the Replay/Showstopper program guide.

I'm playing with the "minimum digits to send" option under fine tuning for codeset 0144 now.

I am not sure about setting this value to 0. It seems to produce inconsistent results; I suspect that it actually maintains the behavior of the previous value.

When the value is set to 1 or 2 and I tune to a channel below 100, the IR blaster sends two digits and the CM interprets this as the primary channel. E.g. I tune the DVR to channel 44, it sends 44 to the CM, and the CM interprets this as a 44-1. There's a fair delay involved but I'm not going to worry about that for now. If I tune the DVR to channel 5, it sends 05 to the CM, and the CM interprets this as 5-1.

However if I tune the DVR to a three-digit channel, the IR blaster sends three digits to the CM, which interprets it as a subchannel. E.g., I tune the DVR to 321, it sends 321 to the CM, and the CM interprets this as 32-1. Note that if I punch e.g. 022 on the DVR remote, the DVR tunes to channel 22 and then sends 22 to the CM, which interprets this as 22-1. In other words, I can't tune to subchannels of of channels 1 through 9.

In short when the minimum digits is set to 1 or 2 under codeset 0144, the program guide will work properly, but you can't make the DVR send codes for subchannels of channels 1 through 9. If the minimum digits is set to 3, the program guide is useless for OTA DTV, but you can get the DVR to send codes for all subchannels. (Subject to the "reinterpretation" issue I mentioned a couple posts up.)

I also tried using manual record with minimum digits set to 2, on the theory that this might work differently from normal tuning, but I still couldn't get it to record subchannels. E.g., entering 0022 for the channel just made the DVR tune to 22 and send 22 to the CM, which was interpreted as 22-1. However it looks like there are ways to do a manual record without tuning at all, so if you set the CM to channel you want before, this would work if you're desperate.

So would you now correct your list to:

RCA DTA-800B: works, allows subchannels over IRBlaster (negative is periodic audio loss, needing reboot)
DTX-9900 and 9950: work with 2000/3000, but not 5040 (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=14024571#post14024571), and no subchannels over IRBlaster
CM-7000: works, outputs in S-Video, allows subchannels over IRBlaster (with fine-tuning)
Zenith DTT 900: will only work with later replayTV models and requires some DVArchive AND WiRNS hacking to enable ".1" subchannels (negative is not usable with other subchannels? and not with 2000/3000 series)
DTVPal: (I don't know if there are updates to this one) coming out soon, may work with Echostar codes, no telling if subchannels will be accessible without hacking

In all cases, Program Guides do not work with subchannels without WiRNS. (Correct?)

Pretty much--the CM-7000 story is a little more complicated but it's certainly more compatible than the DTX-9900/9950.

Also note that the DTVPal will use a Scientific Atlanta cable box code according to Rammitinski. And I only have direct experience with the DTX-9950 and the CM-7000, the rest is from others' reports.

DTX-9900 and 9950: work with ReplayTV 2000


Can somebody who actually tried this verify it. I have the ReplayTV 2000, and searched all over the internet for a Digital converter box that will be compatible with my ReplayTV, but nobody can verify it.

thanks,
stan

DTX-9900 and 9950: work with ReplayTV 2000


Can somebody who actually tried this verify it. I have the ReplayTV 2000, and searched all over the internet for a Digital converter box that will be compatible with my ReplayTV, but nobody can verify it.

thanks,
stan

Converter boxes that are compatible with Replaytv/Panasonic Showstopper
(for tuning standard/non-sub-channels):

Digital Stream DTX-9950 (9900 is discontinued and inferior) - Best code: #7470 -or- alternate codes: #0749 or #0899. Code availability may vary from one series Replaytv to another (if one isn't compatible, the other will be).
Apex DT-502 (and possibly DT-250, which is older version) - Best code: #7470 -or- alternate code: #0749. Code availability may vary from one series Replaytv to another (if one isn't compatible, the other will be).
Channel Master CM-7000 - Only one code: #0144 (works with all Replaytv/Showstopper units).

It's been stated here (numerous times) that the RCA box is compatible as well but I haven't personally confirmed this (although this information seems credible).

Note: Using the DS DTX-9950 box -or- Apex DT-502 (with code #7470) will result is a perfect transition from channel to channel (no glitches whatsoever, albeit a bit slow). However, using code #0899 or #0749 will result in a longer delay when changing channels, the previous channel will remain on screen (and recordings) for several seconds and the screen will go blank for a second or two.

Using the CM box (with code #0144) will also result in a longer delay when changing channels, the previous channel will remain on screen (and recordings) for several seconds and the screen will go blank for a second or two.
.....However, even with these (somewhat minor) inconveniences, the CM is the superior box overall (picture quality and sensitivity are the primary concerns and the CM is the best choice......so far......IMHO......although others have come to this same conclusion)!

So would you now correct your list to:

RCA DTA-800B: works, allows subchannels over IRBlaster (negative is periodic audio loss, needing reboot)
DTX-9900 and 9950: work with 2000/3000, but not 5040 (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=14024571#post14024571), and no subchannels over IRBlaster
CM-7000: works, outputs in S-Video, allows subchannels over IRBlaster (with fine-tuning)
Zenith DTT 900: will only work with later replayTV models and requires some DVArchive AND WiRNS hacking to enable ".1" subchannels (negative is not usable with other subchannels? and not with 2000/3000 series)
DTVPal: (I don't know if there are updates to this one) coming out soon, may work with Echostar codes, no telling if subchannels will be accessible without hacking

In all cases, Program Guides do not work with subchannels without WiRNS. (Correct?)

Correction (since you stated that the DS boxes will not work with Replay 5040):

Digital Stream DTX-9950 works perfectly with Replay 5040 (aka: 5000 series)!......
uses code #7470 (any other codes will result in inferior performance).

Can somebody who actually tried this verify it. I have the ReplayTV 2000, and searched all over the internet for a Digital converter box that will be compatible with my ReplayTV, but nobody can verify it.

YES, I FINALLY GOT IT AND IT'S BEEN WORKING FOR SEVERAL WEEKS. I PURCHASED THE Digital Stream DTX-9950. I ALSO PURCHASED THE IR BLASTER OFF EBAY FOR ABOUT 8 DOLLARS SHIPPED.

Wow. I wish I would have read all the info in this thread before I went out and bought my converter box. I bought the GE 23333 from Target because it seemed like the best value. I have a replay 5500 that's been out of use for several years. When I connected the converter box and saw how clear the picture was, it occurred to me I might be able to reconnect the old replay and use it. I tried the IR codes that replay lists for GE cable and satellite boxes but they don't seem to work. Does anyone know a way to find the IR codes for the GE 23333 converter box or am I S.O.L.?

CM-7000: work`w/o any hacking w/ subchannels?? What's the best price for it online???

how about DTV pal??
tia

I'm playing with the "minimum digits to send" option under fine tuning for codeset 0144 now.

I am not sure about setting this value to 0. It seems to produce inconsistent results; I suspect that it actually maintains the behavior of the previous value.

When the value is set to 1 or 2 and I tune to a channel below 100, the IR blaster sends two digits and the CM interprets this as the primary channel. E.g. I tune the DVR to channel 44, it sends 44 to the CM, and the CM interprets this as a 44-1. There's a fair delay involved but I'm not going to worry about that for now. If I tune the DVR to channel 5, it sends 05 to the CM, and the CM interprets this as 5-1.

However if I tune the DVR to a three-digit channel, the IR blaster sends three digits to the CM, which interprets it as a subchannel. E.g., I tune the DVR to 321, it sends 321 to the CM, and the CM interprets this as 32-1. Note that if I punch e.g. 022 on the DVR remote, the DVR tunes to channel 22 and then sends 22 to the CM, which interprets this as 22-1. In other words, I can't tune to subchannels of of channels 1 through 9.

In short when the minimum digits is set to 1 or 2 under codeset 0144, the program guide will work properly, but you can't make the DVR send codes for subchannels of channels 1 through 9. If the minimum digits is set to 3, the program guide is useless for OTA DTV, but you can get the DVR to send codes for all subchannels. (Subject to the "reinterpretation" issue I mentioned a couple posts up.)

I also tried using manual record with minimum digits set to 2, on the theory that this might work differently from normal tuning, but I still couldn't get it to record subchannels. E.g., entering 0022 for the channel just made the DVR tune to 22 and send 22 to the CM, which was interpreted as 22-1. However it looks like there are ways to do a manual record without tuning at all, so if you set the CM to channel you want before, this would work if you're desperate.

Sorry to dig this up, but what about splitting up the channels? Since the CM has several outputs (S-Video, Composite, RF), why can't two lineups be chosen? Say, for main channels 1-9, use S-Video on IN2, and fine tune the settings for that input to send, at a minimum 2 digits, and for that guide, remove all channels above 9. Then you can use the component for Channels 10+, on IN1, and fine tune the blaster to send 3 digits. RTV's came with two-eye IR blasters... Put both eyes over the CM IR Receiver.

I may have the minimum digits to send backwards here, but the idea is to figure out what fine-tuning is needed for single digit main channels and two digit main channels and also get the sub channels. Granted a custom guide may be needed, but that should be easy once we figure out how to tell the RTV to send numbers.

Can anyone hypothesize / test further?

Cheers!
-Doug

I am using an Insignia CECB, model number unknown. I am adding it since this thread seems to serve as a partial record of what converts can be used.