This was on 2-28-06. My update arrived today. Installing it was a snap. Unplug the power cord, put the flash drive in the USB port, plug the power cord in again, and wait. At the end a screen tells you to pull the flash drive out and hit OK on the remote, and the unit finishes rebooting.

I like the new signal strength meter, under "Adjust Antenna" in the Setup menu. I just wish there were a way to get to it with a single button press. I'll mention that when I mail the flash drive back. The percentages shown in that display are higher than the ones shown by my Sony DHG-HDD250 and 500 DVRs, but the actual reception quality seems to be similar.

The big question now is whether the unit still freezes after a few hours, like it used to. I'll leave it on overnight and see what happens.


You are more fortunate than I. I have called 3 times in the last 5 weeks for the upgrade and have yet to receive it.

On the issue of freeze-ups, I used to get them about every week or two. Unit would become unresponsive and I'd have to unplug it to get it to reset.

Since the update several months ago I have not had a single incident, so I guess whatever they did with the new software worked.

On another topic, did anyone watch that "Nature" episode on PBS-HD about animal migrations? There is a scene near the beginning where hunreds of monarch butterflies fly past the screen. At that point something weird happens (at least on my set). Each of the butterflies turns into a square flickering pixel like the most overcompressed video you ever saw in your life. Made me want to vomit.

I'm guessing that the video stream was unable to process all the information required to show several hundred butterfiles all moving at the same time with any level of detail. I wonder if this is due to the WalMart box's inability to procees the signal or if this is some flaw inherent in the HDTV standard. Or maybe a bad satellite signal, or overcompression of the signal by my local station.

If you happen to see that program, let me know if the same thing happens, because it looked really disturbing to me to see such a crappy picture on a supposedly HD program.

That pixelation probably occured because your local PBS station wasn't devoting a full 19Mbps for their HD stream. Scenes like that require the most bandwidth. Does your local PBS station multicast?

No the pixellation was due to PBS. That program is 16X9 but not HD and most of their programming will give you similar effects.

Yes, I believe the station does multicast since there is regular SD progamming on 18.1 and HD on 18.2.

I thought Nature was broadcast in HD, but maybe not. I thought I could tell HD from non-HD at one time, but now I'm not so sure. There may be some compression going on at my local station in order to fit 2 channels on one signal.

After re-reading mdviewer25 -- I noticed that the clock on my receiver was off a few minutes every couple of days. I don't think I had the same problem with the old software. I think the new software does not change the clock until you tell it too from the setup... any one else have this problem with the new software?

Lately, I have noticed that if I leave it turned off for long periods of time that makes the clock slower. I checked one of them today for the first time in maybe three or four days and the clock was over twenty minutes slow and I had to reset it. My local PBS station that gives me the most accurate time is Maryland Public Television (MPT) on 22-1. Does multicasting and the fact that they have subchannels that only broadcast part of the day have any effect on the clock?

Has anyone else out there noticed that they have to frequently reset their clock? Why has this problem started?

The US Digital box itself isn't responsible for the clock. It gets the current time from whichever tv station you have it set to. You might try to set it to a different channel.

The one problem I have had lately is that the US Digital tv listings guide will all of the sudden reset. It has only done this a few times that I know of.

I don't pay too much attention to the clock, mine seems reasonably accurate. It's the listings that are always wrong. They always display the info for the show that was on an hour earlier.

Ok, I'm sufficiently confused. Is this receiver available by itself for use in any part of the country where local HDTV signals are broadcast? I see that the receiver web page links to a USDTV page that advertises an OTA alternative to cable in a few markets. Is the receiver tied to the service, available by itself and if so, where can I get one?
Thanks,

My clock was off 10 min. Friday, I decided to see how far off it would get, so I left it alone. Saturday night (early Sunday) I was recording a show - and when I was playing it back in the middle of the the show a Wait screen came up about 15 seconds, then the show was back. No other info or text to explain. I decided to check the clock and it was correct. Did it set the clock when the Wait screen came up?

It seems that the clock gets slow when the unit is powered down. With the old software the channel signal light on the front panel stayed green. Now when you power off both lights are red.

Ok, I'm sufficiently confused. Is this receiver available by itself for use in any part of the country where local HDTV signals are broadcast? ...

The receiver was sold a Walmart with the same model number the difference was the price and software ($20 vs. $200+) now they are on the clearance isle. I think the screen colors (Menu etc.) on the paid service is Yellow while the one I have is Blue

After reading about the firmware upgrade I decided to try it out. I requested it via email on March 19th, mentioning that I read on avsforum that a fix for the lockup issue might be available. I included my S/N and send-to snailmail address in the initial email to reduce the potential for email-tag. I got a response the next morning saying the "FTA key" would be sent from the warehouse, and I received it on the 24th. It came with a pre-paid return envelope.

I installed it yesterday without any problems. The new signal strength features are useful, and so far I'm very happy with the update.

So I'd recommend emailing customerservice@usdtv.com to request the upgrade if phone calls don't work.

- Merle

I got one of these receivers from goodwill which says "USDTV Ready" on the front but unfortunately it has been previously activated by a subscriber. When I try to tune into the FTA digital broadcast channels such as PBS it says that my subscription has expired. I tried emailing USDTV customer support to ask for a usb key and they just told me to return it since I bought it from an unauthorized distributor. Anyone have any ideas? :(

Try to get your money back.

As was discussed earlier in this thread, there 2 types of USD receivers: the ones WalMart sold for $199 that worked with or without a subsciption and some others that were much cheaper ($20 if I remember correctly) that needed a subscription and possibly a card to work correctly. I'm a little hazy on the exact details since I never saw the cheap ones for sale, but that's the basic idea.

I have no idea what the mechanical differences are (if any) between the 2 units.

My only other thought is that if you live in one of the markets where USDTV is offered you might be able to subscribe to the service, but as far as I know, free OTA HDTV is not gonna happen with your unit.

It's now been about a month since I upgraded the firmware in my unit, and so far it's worked fine. It's been turned on or in standby mode the whole time and hasn't locked up once.

A couple of days ago, I discovered in the program guide, new listings for a couple of stations that are over a hundred miles away. One of them just has the channel numbers and call letters (WFMY 2-1 and 2-2 in Greensboro NC), but the other one had also had program listings (WUNE 17-1 through 17-5 in Linville NC). The unit must cycle through all the channels looking for PSIP data when it's in standby mode, and freak weather conditions brought those signals here the previous night. I'm sure I didn't add those channels myself, either in a channel scan or via the "Add Channel" feature.

I now keep my receiver turned on all the time. When I turn it off, it finds new (distant) channels and the clock does not update, I have three channel 8's listed. You can remove them from the list in the setup so they are not viewed. I have not had to reset since my update.

I've seen this thread over the last year or so. However, I hadn't read except the first few posts because I wasn't interested in another STB since I have an RCA DTC-100 and a TV with ATSC built in.

Today, I happened to see a USDigital HD STB at Walmart for $100, which prompted me to quickly scan this thread.to see whether this will be any use as a third ATSC tuner. I also visited the Hisense website and couldn't find the user manual.

1. Is there another site where the manual can be downloaded?

2. How about the firmware upgrade? Is this necessary for new units? And is it still available?

3. Can this box be set to come on for timed recording where it outputs via s-video for timed recordings, like the RCA? Then change back to HD output for normal watching.

4. Is this box really worth $100 today in consideration of other boxes with more modern features such as QAM?

Any help will be appreciated.

TH

1. Is there another site where the manual can be downloaded?

You can find a manual on the the USDTV web site (http://www.usdtv.com/). Look for the link "User Manual" at the bottom of the home page. This version describes a USDTV activation procedure as part of the initial setup. I didn't have to do this, so the manual may describe different firmware than I have, but all the other screens seem to be the same.

2. How about the firmware upgrade? Is this necessary for new units? And is it still available?

I strongly recommend the upgrade. My unit always froze after an unpredictable amount of time (few to several hours) after plugging it in. To recover, I had to unplug the unit (not just turn it off, which simply puts it in standby mode). After the upgrade, over a month now, it hasn't frozen once. Your Wal-Mart unit is probably not "new" but rather one that they've had for a long time and are trying to get rid of.

I think USDTV sends different firmware to customers who live inside or outside its broadcast service area, and that if you live in a USDTV service area you have to activate the unit on initial setup (and pay for a subscription). I didn't have to do this, not living in a USDTV service area.

3. Can this box be set to come on for timed recording

No timer capabilities.

4. Is this box really worth $100 today in consideration of other boxes with more modern features such as QAM?

Your call, of course. Another minus for some people is that this box doesn't have a DVI or HDMI output, just component, S-video and composite. I personally think it's a good box for OTA-only use. Since the upgrade, it's been my primary non-recording STB; my Accurian/Radio Shack and Samsung STBs are now in the closet.

The best place to look for manuals for this box is http://www.usdigitalhdtv.com/

All info is available there for download. The USDTV site is oriented more toward their program service.

I forgot about that other site. The manual there is just like my printed one, and corresponds to the original (not updated) firmware. No USDTV activation screen, and no "Antenna Adjust" option in the setup menu, with the big multicolor signal strength meter. (The old firmware has a signal strength option in the menus, but it's just a ten-bar display like on a cell phone.

jtbell, PhiloT; Thanks for your help.

After viewing the user manual, I decided that this is not what I need in the long run for a third atsc tuner. However, I have two elderly aunts that have HD ready TVs and digital cable boxes who swear that regular digital cable is HDTV. If the price drops a little more, I'll get one and some antenna gear for each of them. I'm sure they'll be delighted.

Though on very rare occassions, I've seen Walmart drop prices after they reach the red tag stage, I'll just have to check often and beg the manager when I can find the right day.

Again thanks,

TH

(The old firmware has a signal strength option in the menus, but it's just a ten-bar display like on a cell phone.

Oops! I was thinking about the Samsung SIR-T451 when I wrote that. The old US Digital firmware just has a small variable-length bar (no numeric readout) in the status box that you get when you press the PROGRAM INFO button on the remote. The new firmware changes that to a seven-bar cellphone-type display in the status box. It also has the large display under Antenna Adjust in the menus, which does show a percentage figure.

$100 is a very good price, probably cheaper than anything you'd find on EBay for that model, once shipping is added. I wish I could find a deal like that in my area.

The cheapest HDTV tuner I could find was an open box SIR-T451 for $200. All the Hisense units are long gone at any price.

On 4/12 /06 I bought one, unopened at a Walmart, red tag $75. They have been $129 for a while.

How well do these receivers work? I've had a Toshiba 46H84 for over a year now but have yet to add an HD receiver. I'm just looking for something cheap so that I can pick up ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, and PBS in HD OTA. Would this one work for me? How much does it sell for at Walmart?

How well do these receivers work?

People seem happy with them, other than a few gripes (see 10 pages of discussion above). I think some of the things people didn't like were, no HDMI, DVI or RGB outputs (component, S video and composite only).

Also, some people say the audio is a few milliseconds out out of synch. What else? Maybe some other minor stuff that can mostly be fixed with a firmware upgrade.

I tried the Accurian Radio Shack model and the Circuit City Pro Brand models before buying this one and feel it's definitely superior to either of those.

I mostly like the ability to get your money back fairly easily if you decide you don't like it, unlike EBay or those (often) shady online stores.

Can these by bought at any Walmart? How much are they selling for?

Took a chance on a $129 open box WalMart STB. Two green lights, intermittent sound but no video welcome just dark raster when connected to my TV composite video input. Power on/off and plug/unplug did not help. Speculated unit outputting component video only. The missing option USDGUIDE/ASPECT/USDGUIDE/1 enabled composite video out, and yielded a different and better set of aspect ratio choices for 4:3 than 480i does in recovering from any of the other output modes. So far 36 solid/no dropout channels despite moderate rain, no lockups after running overnight. 2.5.61 (2.4.18-7)

Took a chance on a $129 open box WalMart STB. Two green lights, intermittent sound but no video welcome just dark raster when connected to my TV composite video input. Power on/off and plug/unplug did not help. Speculated unit outputting component video only. The missing option USDGUIDE/ASPECT/USDGUIDE/1 enabled composite video out, and yielded a different and better set of aspect ratio choices for 4:3 than 480i does in recovering from any of the other output modes. So far 36 solid/no dropout channels despite moderate rain, no lockups after running overnight. 2.5.61 (2.4.18-7)

Some of your problems can be fixed by contacting USDTV for a USB upgrade. The latest version is 2.7.11 (2.4.18-15).

Can these by bought at any Walmart?

No, just the ones that still happen to have any units left after being offered at progressively reduced prices for several months.

My local Walmart never marked them down. If they had, I would've considered grabbing one. They sold the last 3 open boxes that were sitting there for over a year for full price just recently.

People seem happy with them, other than a few gripes (see 10 pages of discussion above). I think some of the things people didn't like were, no HDMI, DVI or RGB outputs (component, S video and composite only).

Also, some people say the audio is a few milliseconds out out of synch. What else? Maybe some other minor stuff that can mostly be fixed with a firmware upgrade.

I tried the Accurian Radio Shack model and the Circuit City Pro Brand models before buying this one and feel it's definitely superior to either of those.

I mostly like the ability to get your money back fairly easily if you decide you don't like it, unlike EBay or those (often) shady online stores.I've had both, and picture wise I thought the USDigital (which I didn't keep) was noticably better than the Accurian picture-wise, but definitely not sensitivity-wise. (By the way, the ProBrand and the Accurian are the exact same box on the inside.) I'm in a fringe area, so I was able to compare on those terms. I suppose if you're close enough to the towers that this wouldn't matter, but it did to me. I've also got the Sony DHG-HDD500, and the Accurian beats that too, for sensitivity. But, even without the DVR, I still prefer the Sony, because the picture is way better. The USDigital also kept losing the audio every once in awhile, and I had to reboot (unplug) it everytime to get it back. But the guide did work much better than the Accurian's, which is so flawed it's virtually useless.

The remote on the Accurian was virtually useless as well, as I recall.

I guess I forgot about all the problems I had with my USDTV box before the USB update, like losing audio and having to unplug the unit to fix it. Those were the good old days.

I'm in the market now for another HDTV (or at least ATSC) set top tuner and am really dismayed at what is available. I even looked at some PC based tuners, but they seem to have a lot of problems at this stage of their development.

I would buy another USDTV box if I could find a new one. I'm not brave enough to buy one on EBay yet, due to the cost (as much as an open box new one) and the risk of getting stuck with one of the subscription-only units.

Well, actually the remote isn't useless - more like finicky. It works, though. You just have to get used to pointing it a little downwards from the unit. People that have used other remotes with it say they have no problem. Best Buy sells the Sylvania tuner (w/included indoor antenna), and some people have said they were very satisfied with it. But it does cost a little over 2 bills. I don't know why they don't just ditch the antenna and sell it for 200. Probably sell more.

I guess its ok to tell you guys this now. I was holding out because I wasn't sure what was happening. Hisense originally had a new version of the DB-2010 that had a few improvments with model number DB-2030. Wal-Mart was going to carry it, but this was last summer and since then, I haven't seen anything on this model. It was at one time in our system with a price of $229. The main thing it added, at least from the pics was an HDMI port. I dunno if the box is still in the works for USDTV or not, but I doubt Wal-Mart will carry it. Since most of the TVs now have the box built in, the market for a stand alone STB is diminishing (even though I hate that).

Thanks for the update, sad though it is. Maybe WalMart will find something they can sell for even cheaper at some point that is digital only (not high def).

Hello, I just joined this forum and am new to the HDTV world. I bought a closeout Sony KV-27HS420 HD(ready)TV and the USDigital box at Walmart for $129 with 90-day return priviledge. Overall, I am satisfied with this unit and will probably keep it. The lack of DVI doesn't matter to me because my home theater receiver doesn't have DVI input/output. My revision level is 2.5.47 and USDigital is sending to me the latest. I too have noticed the out-of-sync video & audio and hope this upgrade fixes it. Another member here explained how to directly enter a channel number such as 15-2 (1 5 --> 2 enter) for which I am grateful; but, one has to be fast. My antenna consists of two stacked RS 15-624 indoor bowties into a RS 30db signal amp. I live 30 miles from the sources, in hilly terrain, and can receive all available stations. I didn't find the USDigital signal strength meter to be of much use in setting up the antenna; I had better results connecting to my VCR analog tuner and using my calibrated eyeball to obtain the best antenna position and orientation. Once I had done that the USDigital meter pegged to max and has stayed there. I am aiming through several hundred feet of trees and on very windy days am picking up a bit of video and audio dropout, but tolerable. I am waiting for the trees to be fully leafed before I finalize my verdict. Here's the only feature that I wish the unit had: In the setup menu I must select one output format from 480i, 480p, 720p, 1080i. I would like to be offered another choice called "passthrough" and let my Sony TV make the selection. Right now I have selected 1080i on the USDigital box. That means that ABC & FOX broadcasts at 720p will not get to my TV at 720p but instead at 1080i. Unless, of course, I re-setup the USDigital box every time I change channels -- not likely. On the subject of component HDTV tuners versus TV built-in tuners: I've noticed that very few of the HDTVs (with tuner) have digital audio outputs. So, if you buy one of these without the digital out and want to enjoy the broadcast HD 5.1 audio, forget it. Something to be aware of.

What a coincidence. As I was writing my previous post, the promised USDigital update arrived in the form of a USB jumpdrive. The installation went as advertised. Well, guess what. There now is an actually useful antenna setup option in the setup menu. It provides a numerical signal strength from 0% to 100% (percent of what I have no idea) Also, the audio / video sync seems to have improved. There are also a number of other minor improvements, such as scanning through channel contents while still watching one channel. I think I'll keep it for $129.

Thanks for the update, sad though it is. Maybe WalMart will find something they can sell for even cheaper at some point that is digital only (not high def).I thought someone posted awhile back that they talked to someone at USDTV and they were told definitely that no new boxes would be made available for OTA only users - just for service subscribers.

That's probably true. In fact I think I remember that comment being made by someone in this thread a while back.

What I meant was that someone other than USDTV may come out with a set-top digital tuner that WalMart could sell really cheap. I'm not holding my breath though.

ive searched the web high and low for the firmware updates....they are just not available except strait for the manufacturer

http://www.hisense.com/en/products/tv_list.jsp?pcat_id=01&pcat_name=TV&pscat_id=0105&pscat_name=Set%20Top%20Box&sery_name=DVB-t&srnum=2

ive searched the web high and low for the firmware updates....they are just not available except strait for the manufacturer

Are there firmware updates on that website? I wasn't able to find any.

It would be great if either Hisense or USDTV would post them, but I guess they are worried about people hosing their boxes by performing a bad flash.

Last time I was in my local Walmart they still had two USDigital available at $129.

That's probably true. In fact I think I remember that comment being made by someone in this thread a while back.

What I meant was that someone other than USDTV may come out with a set-top digital tuner that WalMart could sell really cheap. I'm not holding my breath though.My fault. I just re-read what you posted and it was perfectly clear what you meant. It's just my brain that wasn't at 4:41am.

Quick question. I have the box and am currently running the component cables that came with the tuner. Do you think it would be worth it to upgrade the cables?

Quick question. I have the box and am currently running the component cables that came with the tuner. Do you think it would be worth it to upgrade the cables?

My eyes can not see a difference between pictures send through component or HDMI.
But, then again, my old eyes can't see a difference in the HD signal when a station is sending out an extra channel or two along with its HDTV digital channel!
Nat

Quick question. I have the box and am currently running the component cables that came with the tuner. Do you think it would be worth it to upgrade the cables?
I'm using the supplied cables to connect from USDigital to my receiver. Also using similar cables to connect from DVD to receiver. From receiver to TV I have heavier 12' cables. Everything looks fine to my eyes (and magnifying glass). If your picture looks fine to you then I see no reason to replace the cables. Personally, I think this high $ Monster cable stuff is a big rip-off. If it is 75 ohm it should work fine. A lot of "cable problems" are caused by people using audio cables, which may not be 75 ohm, for video cables.

Lately, my receiver has been adding different subchannels that aren't supposed to be there.
Example 1: channels: 29-1, 67-1, 67-3, 67-4, 67-5
broadcast frequency: 29

This is a PBS channel from Baltimore that I can't get a good signal for but must have showed up one night while it was off.

Example 2: channels: 27-7, 45-1, 45-2
broadcast frequency: 46

This is the Fox affiliate from Baltimore that had an ok signal that dropped a few times and all of a sudden 27-7 showed up. I tried tuning in that strange channel but it didn't turn to it.
My question is how do I get rid of 29-1 and 27-7 or do I just need a better antenna to get rid of them?

I can see that no one had any answers for my last post, that's ok, I'm not that worried about it. It would help if someone else has had this happen to one of their channels and can explain how they corrected it. I have a new question. Does anyone know if a new update will come out soon. Everytime I check the program guide it takes over three minutes to scan for program info and descriptions

Sorry about that, I had the same problem the first week i had it. (old software :) )
the PBS channel showed 32-1 to 32-4 and the 5th was on channel 11-5 (Iowa PBS shows only 2 broadcasts per channel) when I would tune to 3,4,5 it would show signal but no picture or sound.

They are both weak stations, evenings only. so I think that was part of the problem of it glitching.

You have 2 choices, 1- hard reset with the remote (key press combo), 2-remove from channel list in setup (edit channel list) and cross it out

The hard reset starts you out with a clean machine and has to scan for new channels etc.
The instructions were on previous pages.

I have not had the problem again, but sometimes I get new distant stations added to list if I turn it off at night (I leave mine on all the time now.)
----------
It is annoying to wait on the scan in the program guide before you get the small TV back on the
screen. But you can exit at any time :)

About cable quality - the longer the cable the more quality matters.
If the cable is short use what you have.

Sorry about that, I had the same problem the first week i had it. (old software :) )
the PBS channel showed 32-1 to 32-4 and the 5th was on channel 11-5 (Iowa PBS shows only 2 broadcasts per channel) when I would tune to 3,4,5 it would show signal but no picture or sound.

They are both weak stations, evenings only. so I think that was part of the problem of it glitching.

You have 2 choices, 1- hard reset with the remote (key press combo), 2-remove from channel list in setup (edit channel list) and cross it out

The hard reset starts you out with a clean machine and has to scan for new channels etc.
The instructions were on previous pages.

I have not had the problem again, but sometimes I get new distant stations added to list if I turn it off at night (I leave mine on all the time now.)
----------
It is annoying to wait on the scan in the program guide before you get the small TV back on the
screen. But you can exit at any time :)

I blocked it from the list, It's just annoying me that's it is still there. Are you sure a hard reset will do the trick.

Hard Reseting the unit will erase every thing, it will have to scan for all the channels, time, zone. You might have the same glitch occur again sometime in the future, but that was the only time for me.(so far ;) )

Press-- guide, aspect, exit, program info, 0, in sequence

I could not make mine reset right away, until I went to the system info page and did the key press while on that screen. It might have been just me, too slooow on the key press.
I had a lot of extra channels that I had deselected from the list I thought I would get rid of.

Are there firmware updates on that website? I wasn't able to find any.

It would be great if either Hisense or USDTV would post them, but I guess they are worried about people hosing their boxes by performing a bad flash.Yep - the only way to get the update is to ask USDTV to send it to you.

For the record, they're exceptionally prompt about it; you'll usually receive it within a week or two.

Frankly it's better STB support than many larger electronics manufacturers provide…

Hi all, I purchased this box recently from walmart recently. When I got home all exited and opened it, I found that the box had a slot to insert cable card in the front. The picture in the box doesn't have it. This made me think if this could be the subscriber version???? Though I haven't tried it, could someone tell me if this the version of the box I am supposed to have?

Now I am wondering if I got a open box which someone replaced ?????

Hi all, I purchased this box recently from walmart recently. When I got home all exited and opened it, I found that the box had a slot to insert cable card in the front. The picture in the box doesn't have it. This made me think if this could be the subscriber version???? Though I haven't tried it, could someone tell me if this the version of the box I am supposed to have?

Now I am wondering if I got a open box which someone replaced ?????

I got one from Wal-Mart and one from eBay, and both have that slot on the front. I think that for if they offer the pay service in your area. It doesn't affect your ability to get off air signals.

I got one from Wal-Mart and one from eBay, and both have that slot on the front. I think that for if they offer the pay service in your area. It doesn't affect your ability to get off air signals.
Thanks a lot....Now I just have to get a good antenna.

I forgot that the new software has an option to scan and replace when you scan for new channels. No need to hard reset to remove extra channels.

if your menu has a blue screen (not yellow) you have the standard stb. the paid service models scan for the service and you can not proceed if it can not find it. (they sent me a replacement model with the paid service instead of update stick. See previous pages)

Since the software update, my box freezes while scanning for new channels once it reaches my local PBS stations. I left it for several hours one day to see if it would ever finish, but it didn't. Anyone else have this problem?

Since the software update, my box freezes while scanning for new channels once it reaches my local PBS stations. I left it for several hours one day to see if it would ever finish, but it didn't. Anyone else have this problem?
Yes I have the same problem after update. Stops at PBS stations and sits there. I wish there was a fix.

Can you just add channels manually, the ones you already know are there?

Yes I have the same problem after update. Stops at PBS stations and sits there. I wish there was a fix.

1. Find out what software version he has. The last one we did for
FTA was 2.5.57. If he has an earlier version, have a 2.5.57 FTA
keychain sent to him.

2. If he does have 2.5.57, ask him what city and what channel is
causing the problem, then let us know.

3. If he does have 2.5.57, give him this workaround: As the channel
scan gets to the bad channel, remove the antenna cable from the back
of the receiver. When the channel scan proceeds to the next channel,
plug the antenna cable back in.


Hope this helps. They are sending me a replacement receiver, mine wouldnt work after trying the upgrade.

1. Find out what software version he has. The last one we did for
FTA was 2.5.57. If he has an earlier version, have a 2.5.57 FTA
keychain sent to him.

2. If he does have 2.5.57, ask him what city and what channel is
causing the problem, then let us know.

3. If he does have 2.5.57, give him this workaround: As the channel
scan gets to the bad channel, remove the antenna cable from the back
of the receiver. When the channel scan proceeds to the next channel,
plug the antenna cable back in.


Hope this helps. They are sending me a replacement receiver, mine wouldnt work after trying the upgrade.
I have 2.7.11 (2.4.18-15). I assume that the 2.5.57 you referred to is the number in the parenthesis. Do I just call US Digital @ 1-800-730-6628 to get the firmware update. Got that number off their site or is there a different number I should use?

I have 2.7.11 (2.4.18-15). I assume that the 2.5.57 you referred to is the number in the parenthesis. Do I just call US Digital @ 1-800-730-6628 to get the firmware update. Got that number off their site or is there a different number I should use?

Yes you should call the 1-800 number and ask for the upgrade. It will come in a jump drive that is pre paid to mail back to them.

Thanks, will give the 800 # a try next week.

Does anyone know if there will be any new updates for this STB?

I guess no one is posting to this thread anymore but if anyone is reading this, I have a new question about this STB. My local PBS has an HD channel that only airs at night and 3 other subchannels that only air during the day. With the old software, all four subchannels would stay in the memory even if they were off the air. With this new update, I have to go to Adjust Antenna in order for it to find new channels. Does anyone know a way around this because it is annoying to have to keep doing this every time? I hope someone reads this and can post an answer to help.

I guess no one is posting to this thread anymore but if anyone is reading this, I have a new question about this STB. My local PBS has an HD channel that only airs at night and 3 other subchannels that only air during the day. With the old software, all four subchannels would stay in the memory even if they were off the air. With this new update, I have to go to Adjust Antenna in order for it to find new channels. Does anyone know a way around this because it is annoying to have to keep doing this every time? I hope someone reads this and can post an answer to help.
My receiver was upgraded not too long ago because it froze up on me. With the new software upgade we recently had some new channels come on the air and the receiver automaticaly showed the new channels without doing any scanning to add new ones. Your receiver should do the same and show the channels when on the air in the evening and the day.

My receiver was upgraded not too long ago because it froze up on me. With the new software upgade we recently had some new channels come on the air and the receiver automaticaly showed the new channels without doing any scanning to add new ones. Your receiver should do the same and show the channels when on the air in the evening and the day.

What software version is your receiver using? Mine is 2.7.11(2.4.18-15). The problem I'm having is 22-2 is an HD subchannel that is only on the air at night. 22-3, 22-4, and 22-5 are only on during the day. 22-1, the main channel, is on 24 hours. At night, my receiver would have 22-1, 22-3, 22-4, and 22-5. 3, 4, and 5 would say currently off the air and it would skip 22-2 and not allow my to manually turn to it. I have to go to Adjust Antenna on the menu and wait for it to erase 3, 4, and 5, and recognize 22-2. I didn't have to go through that with the old software.

First I would check you PBS stations web page to see if they are broadcasting on 5 channels

then you might do a scan and replace of your channels if they do not have 5 channels

If I power off my receiver, it finds new (skip) stations and replaces some of my channels on the same frequency. for example one channel has 3 channels and the new channel has 1 and replaces 7-1 with 26-1 and I still have 7-2 and 7-3

anybody using this receiver have audio dropouts? I picked one up at my local WM for 40.00. Getting awesome pictures but audio dropouts on all channels. It happens about every 5-10 minutes but it doesn't happen all the time. Tried another one of these receivers and same thing. Different antennas. Same thing. Only common is my Pioneer amp. Using Optical to pass the audio signal. using this same input and cable with my xbox and I never had problems so I am not sure that is the issue either.

What software version is your receiver using? Mine is 2.7.11(2.4.18-15). The problem I'm having is 22-2 is an HD subchannel that is only on the air at night. 22-3, 22-4, and 22-5 are only on during the day. 22-1, the main channel, is on 24 hours. At night, my receiver would have 22-1, 22-3, 22-4, and 22-5. 3, 4, and 5 would say currently off the air and it would skip 22-2 and not allow my to manually turn to it. I have to go to Adjust Antenna on the menu and wait for it to erase 3, 4, and 5, and recognize 22-2. I didn't have to go through that with the old software.
Mines the same version of software.

anybody using this receiver have audio dropouts? I picked one up at my local WM for 40.00. Getting awesome pictures but audio dropouts on all channels. It happens about every 5-10 minutes but it doesn't happen all the time. Tried another one of these receivers and same thing. Different antennas. Same thing. Only common is my Pioneer amp. Using Optical to pass the audio signal. using this same input and cable with my xbox and I never had problems so I am not sure that is the issue either.When I had the receiver for a short time a couple of years back, every so often the audio would go out completely (but not the video), and the only way I could get it back was to unplug it and plug it back in.

Doesn't quite sound the same as the problem you're having, though. (And I wasn't using the optical out.)

anybody using this receiver have audio dropouts? I picked one up at my local WM for 40.00. Getting awesome pictures but audio dropouts on all channels. It happens about every 5-10 minutes but it doesn't happen all the time. Tried another one of these receivers and same thing. Different antennas. Same thing. Only common is my Pioneer amp. Using Optical to pass the audio signal. using this same input and cable with my xbox and I never had problems so I am not sure that is the issue either.
The first time i hooked up the optical it wasnt in all the way on the receiver and the sound had problems. It seems the connection had to be pushed all the way in until it clicked. Hope this helps

First I would check you PBS stations web page to see if they are broadcasting on 5 channels

then you might do a scan and replace of your channels if they do not have 5 channels

If I power off my receiver, it finds new (skip) stations and replaces some of my channels on the same frequency. for example one channel has 3 channels and the new channel has 1 and replaces 7-1 with 26-1 and I still have 7-2 and 7-3

They have 5 channels. The problem is they aren't all on at once. 22-1(the main channel) is 24 hours, but 22-2 is only on between like 8pm and sometime early in the morning and 22-3,4,and 5 is only on during the day. The old software kept all of them in memory. With this version I have to keep going to Adjust Antenna when the channel does show up. I don't want to have to keep doing that.

Just checked their website to see if there was a time when all subchannels were on the air and they're not. 22-2 airs between 4pm and 8am. 22-3, 22-4, and 22-5 air between 8am and 4pm. So if I go through the channels at 5pm, 22-1 would be on the air, it would skip 22-2, and 22-3, 22-4, and 22-5 would say "Currently off the air". I would have to go to the Menu to Adjust Antenna and it would say "Found 1 new channel" 22-3, 22-4, and 22-5 would disappear and 22-2 would show up. The reverse would happen earlier in the day if I'm using my receiver for the first time since the night before. 22-1 would be on the air as normal and 22-2 would say "Currently off the air", and it would skip 22-3, 4, and 5 and go to the next channel. The old software would keep the channels stored and not skip them, even though Adjust antenna wasn't available.

Tried to get through to USDigital but couldn't. Are they still in business? Or have they gone under. Wanted to see if they might have a solution for my problem. My sound and video don't sync on ABC in Detroit. It only happens in primetime 8:00PM to 11:00 PM when watching HD programs. It later fixes itself in time for the evening news. I don't seem to have this problem with a Magnavox lcd with built in tuner.

Tried to get through to USDigital but couldn't. Are they still in business? Or have they gone under. Wanted to see if they might have a solution for my problem. My sound and video don't sync on ABC in Detroit. It only happens in primetime 8:00PM to 11:00 PM when watching HD programs. It later fixes itself in time for the evening news. I don't seem to have this problem with a Magnavox lcd with built in tuner.

Looks like they're probably going out of business. They just filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. There's a thread about it over in HDTV Programming.

Alright - i finally managed to snag one for 40 bucks :D

The walmart, close to my residence had two, and had them priced at $129 each - i had been checking frequently hoping that they would reduce the price as had a lot of other Walmarts around the country - no such luck

Then i found another walmart which had reduced the price to $40, but was all sold out. I went to the first walmart, bought it at full price, then took it over to the other walmart to return and rebuy it - the look on the customer service representative was priceless, when he returned it for $129 as per the receipt and then bought back for $40 :D

Incase anyone is looking for these - i know there is one available at the walmart in south plainfield NJ and another one at Hamilton, NJ

I must say, it took me about 5 mins to get this puppy up and running, and it catches way more digital channels than my Dish 811. Great picture quality. Using it with deck mounted Silver Sensor.

Any chance I could talk you into sending me the USDigital upgrade? I'll pay postage both ways. My box has a pretty bad audio clipping problem and I can't get any help from the manufacturer as they are out of business.

Thanks

Tom Best
2903 Oak Park Drive
Austin, Texas 78704




What a coincidence. As I was writing my previous post, the promised USDigital update arrived in the form of a USB jumpdrive. The installation went as advertised. Well, guess what. There now is an actually useful antenna setup option in the setup menu. It provides a numerical signal strength from 0% to 100% (percent of what I have no idea) Also, the audio / video sync seems to have improved. There are also a number of other minor improvements, such as scanning through channel contents while still watching one channel. I think I'll keep it for $129.

Larry posted that back in April. I can't speak for him, but my upgrade (in March) was accompanied by an envelope for sending it back to USDTV. I wasn't supposed to keep it. I sent mine back because I didn't want them nagging me for it. If I had known that USDTV was going to go bankrupt in a few months, I might have kept it anyway so I could make a few bucks renting it out. :cool:

(just kidding)

Are you sure they are out of business? I got mine 03-05-06 and mailed it back the next day. To my surprise, I opened the mailbox today and found the returned envelope with a "RETURNED FOR POSTAGE" stamp on the front. I mailed it over 5 months ago. What the heck is going on?

I'm not sure I understand the previous post. If I understand correctly, it sounds like the Post Office had the USB stick for 5 months, not USDTV.

Additionally, I had a thought that maybe, just maybe, someone who has a lot of time on their hands and can read Chinese could check the Hisense websites and see if maybe they have a support page for the DB-2010. And if there is none, maybe Hisense could be contacted via email to see if they have (and would be willing to share) the DB 2010 update file.

Sorry about the confusion. In my previous message I was referring to the software update. Yes, apparently the post office had the USB stick for 5 months. I have emailed USDTV, and they have yet to reply. But I figure after over 5 months, do they still expect to get it back?

I would suggest that you hang on to it for awhile anyway. (see if they ask for it back) I tried to copy mine but the copy did not work (you know it works if you try update and it responds with already updated if it did not copy correctly -- nothing happens) it must have had a boot sector or something that I did not copy with the files (used linux to copy) or the memory stick I have is not compatible.

I think the software is proprietary with US Digital and not Hisense so they may not have the software. ??

It's possible Hisense may have a generic version of the software or firmware or whatever you call it.

Sort of like when you flash the bios on a brand name computer (HP. Compaq, Dell, etc.) with one from the motherboard manufacturer. All the HP/Compaq/Dell logos are replaced with the motherboard manufacturer's logo, but it still works the same.

Anyway, it was just a thought.

They did reply and asked if I sent it to the correct address. It seems like they have no idea what's going on.

...My local PBS has an HD channel that only airs at night and 3 other subchannels that only air during the day. With the old software, all four subchannels would stay in the memory even if they were off the air. With this new update, I have to go to Adjust Antenna in order for it to find new channels. Does anyone know a way around this because it is annoying to have to keep doing this every time? I hope someone reads this and can post an answer to help.

It is Maryland Public Tv's problem. Their PSIP is not right; never has been. I get the same problem on my Dish 6000, and my two latest-firmware USDTV boxes. No such problems with WETA -- they send PSIP info for the subchannels even when they are not actively 'on the air'.

I have contacted MPT engineering several times. Each time I get ONE email reply saying they'll investigate. No response to follow up emails. Nothing ever changes. No one ever writes back.

I tried to copy mine but the copy did not work (you know it works if you try update and it responds with already updated if it did not copy correctly -- nothing happens) it must have had a boot sector or something that I did not copy with the files (used linux to copy) or the memory stick I have is not compatible.


The upgrade files have to be on a bootable Linux USB stick. I made one today that does work (I get the 'already updated' message).

There are sites that explain making a bootable stick. I made mine using a Slax CD.

From the command prompt, 'fdisk' a usb stick that does not contain your firmware files. Delete the existing partitions. Create a Linux partition on it. Set the bootable flag. Write changes to the stick.

Now run 'mkfs' on the new stick device. Slax defaults to ext2.

Reboot and mount the source stick and a the Linux stick. (use 'tail -f /var/log/messages' to see where your USB drives show up as you plug them in)

Copy the files and directories from the source to the Linux stick. (I used Midnight Commander ('mc'), but any copy method should work.)

I used a 64 meg USB stick. $10 at Staples. Plenty of room.
_________________
What I want to figure out is how to convert a subscription USDTV reciever to a free-to-air box. The USB upgrade will not work for this.

I just got this usdigital receiver a few days ago-was working great-until all of the sudden it won't display any video on my tv(via component cables)-only sound coming through. changed the component cables-no luck.Anyone know what problem is?

States comes with 1 year warranty-but # provided is out of service-any other way to get this fixed or refunded? It was a brand new item.

Version 2.5

Any help would be great-thanks...

I just got this usdigital receiver a few days ago-was working great-until all of the sudden it won't display any video on my tv(via component cables)-only sound coming through. changed the component cables-no luck.Anyone know what problem is?

You may have pressed some buttons to put it in a different mode.
Press POWER
Press *RED* USDTV guide button
Press ASPECT
Press *RED* USDTV guide button again

Press 1 for regular (not hi-def) output
or
Press 5 for 1080i hi-def

2,3,4 are other choices for 480i, 480p, 720p

ok-thanks-will give it a try

The upgrade files have to be on a bootable Linux USB stick. I made one today that does work (I get the 'already updated' message).

I want to update my reciever. Could you send me the files for it?
madlobster@gmail:)com

Here is a response to a query I sent to USDTV several weeks ago. My question *was* addressed to USDTV VP Steve Morse.


--

We apologize for the delayed response. USDTV is currently undergoing restructuring and new ownership.

We need to see whether you are or were an existing customer to verify that the receiver is yours. If you live outside of our four service areas, you need to have a receiver that was FTA to begin with. If you purchased a subscription receiver from an unauthorized dealer, such as on E-Bay, you should return it for a refund.

In order to activate it for local, FTA service, you will need to have it set up with antenna. We need to have the UID and the serial number. The serial number is printed on the back side of the receiver and begins with 3 or 4 zeroes. The UID is displayed in system information. It begins with five or six zeroes.

Our customer service line was previously not staffed for about 30 days. However, we are now available:

877-438-8738
Week days until 8pm MOUNTAIN
Saturday until noon MOUNTAIN

Sincerely,
USDTV Customer Service

---

[Received Sept 1, 2006:]

We expect our new ownership to be finalized in the middle of this month (September). The new ownership will decide whether to continue the previous service of converting service boxes to FTA boxes and how much it will cost.

We recommend you contact us after the 11th to inquire about this possible service.

Sincerely,
USDTV Customer Service

R these boxes still avaliable to buy?

Yeah, they're still around. I bought one in Williston, Vermont on Aug 19 for $129 but there were only 3 left in that store. They are definitely getting scarce.

I emailed the company about a week ago and haven't had a reply re: getting a firware upgrade.

Does anyone have still have a USB upgrade key in their posession? I would be willing to pay all costs.

For the most part, my box is working just fine, but the one issue I have is that it freezes up on autoscan on one strong channel. I just manually add all the channels. Bu the strong one can't be detected.

I'm in Canada and I bet USdigital wouldn't bother sending me the firmware upgrade even if they weren't facing financail difficulties....

Can anyone help me out? Andrew

Paula,

I would like to update firmware but when I call US digital - they are in bankruptsy
protection - nothing coming out of there for now or maybe never.
Can you send the file to me to create the usb key ..thanks

Andyman,

I have the same problem, I live in the Toronto area and local channel 9 cfto
has this issue. It is a problem with the psip - apparently CFTO has a problem with
a rotating psip - I don't quite understand but for a few weeksin early july cfto worked great.

Thanks for confirming that you've had issues getting 40 as well. I live in Toronto too - southern Etobicoke).

I get everything from Buffalo with an external UHF antenna except WB. I guess I'll try scanning again for CTV again sometime in the future. I'm amazed how well digital signals look coming across the lake. Forget old analog and snow.

Still wondering if anyone has the USB firmware key?

Was ready to buy the Samsung while in the States. but fairly happy with the USDigital...

I think the US Digital is definitely a better product than my Samsung. It switches channels faster, the guide works better, and it does a better job of zooming in than my Samsung T-451. It also doesn't have those annoying random reboots that the Samsung has.

The only thing good about the Samsung are buttons on the front if you happen to lose the remote.

Too bad Samsung isn't the one filing for bankruptcy, I hate their products, and could do without them. And I hope US Digital can get through this.

And it doesn't have those annoying gray bars.

I have had the usdigital box for just over a year now, with no major problems.
Had to hold the power button down to reset it a few times.
But now however the thing just stoped working, the power and signal lights just keep blinking, anyone had this before?
I have tried unplugging with the power button held and nothing.
Any sugjestions?

I just got one of the locked US digital tuners from eBay. When turning on, it shows the USD logo screen in yellow. Does anyone know if by flashing the firmware will unlock it for me to use it as an over the air tuner?

Thanks!

I just got one of the locked US digital tuners from eBay. When turning on, it shows the USD logo screen in yellow. Does anyone know if by flashing the firmware will unlock it for me to use it as an over the air tuner?

Thanks!


It will not even notice the USB thingy.

However, it will work as an OTA receiver with some limitations. That screaming yellow color not being the least of them.

My receiver when turned on goes through the antenna scanning process then asks for activation by US Digital. It won't allow me to do anything else. Is there anyway I can unlock it?

Thanks!

It will not even notice the USB thingy.

However, it will work as an OTA receiver with some limitations. That screaming yellow color not being the least of them.

The scanning on these boxes can get weird.

Mine locks up on a particular channel so I manually add them.

Still looking for a firmware upgrade.

USDTV has been silent to my requests.

Can anyone help me out?

The upgrade files have to be on a bootable Linux USB stick. I made one today that does work (I get the 'already updated' message).

There are sites that explain making a bootable stick. I made mine using a Slax CD.

From the command prompt, 'fdisk' a usb stick that does not contain your firmware files. Delete the existing partitions. Create a Linux partition on it. Set the bootable flag. Write changes to the stick.

Now run 'mkfs' on the new stick device. Slax defaults to ext2.

Reboot and mount the source stick and a the Linux stick. (use 'tail -f /var/log/messages' to see where your USB drives show up as you plug them in)

Copy the files and directories from the source to the Linux stick. (I used Midnight Commander ('mc'), but any copy method should work.)

I used a 64 meg USB stick. $10 at Staples. Plenty of room.
_________________
What I want to figure out is how to convert a subscription USDTV reciever to a free-to-air box. The USB upgrade will not work for this.

Where can I get these files from?

Funny thing is wallyworld has a 27" flat screen tv for $207 with a digital tuner. Yet a new tuner is around the same $$.
Whats up wit dat????

I agree that makes little sense, but keep in mind that neither the TV nor the tuner are HD.

Adding an ATSC tuner chipset to a motherboard in a TV that already has to have an antenna/cable input anyway, is bound to be cheaper than also having to build a box for it and provide all the input and output connectors and some status indicators for the front of the box.

And then there's the limited market for standalone ATSC STBs (at the moment, anyway) compared to millions of new TVs.

Where can I get these files from?

Yes, I'd like these files as well. Does anyone have them available?

Me too! I e-mailed them and they said they could not provide. Hopefully someone saved them... anyone here?

Nobody would give me the firmware including USDigital even though they're dumping the damn boxes in every goodwill in my area. I just gave up and got an old VOOM receiver which still works for ATSC and use that now.

Me too! I e-mailed them and they said they could not provide. Hopefully someone saved them... anyone here?


I have them but 7 megs is too big for posting to this forum. I am not going to individually distruibute them.

upload it to yousendit.c0m and then pm us the link? :confused:

upload it to yousendit.c0m and then pm us the link? :confused:


Add me to the list of "need the files".... Please Upload :)

If you were willing to e-mail it to me, I would be willing to distribute/post. PM me if you are interested/willing.

Lots of these users would thank you!

Paula was so kind to forward to me... send me a PM with your e-mail address if you would like it forwarded on.

NOTE: I have not tested these files. I do not endorse, nor encourage, the use of these files. I will not be held responsible for anything that happens to any equipment you use these files on.

There... that should keep the lawyers happy. Now send me a PM.

NOTE: I have not tested these files. I do not endorse, nor encourage, the use of these files. I will not be held responsible for anything that happens to any equipment you use these files on.

There... that should keep the lawyers happy. Now send me a PM.Actually, distribution of the files is, in itself, illegal without the permission of USDTV, especially now that they're out of bankruptcy.

So is practicing law without a license.

I'm wondering if PM's are working. I've sent about 3 over the span of time since I found this thread, the last one to Mantonite to try to get the files, and none of them show as ever having been read.

Mantonite, if you see this...and didn't get my PM, please try PMing me here.

I have version 2.5.57, emailed USDTV support if there was any way to purchase the upgrade, and was just told,

"Actually we don't send out software updates or box swaps for "Free to Air" boxes.

Thanks
USDTV"

:(

Because of the bankruptcy, USD's warehouse has been flooded with customers with orders to swap out receivers or get others back. Thusly, they have stopped servicing free-to-air boxes, since they don't even have any more of the software update keys (due to people receiving them and not sending them back) and they've decided it's too much hassle for now. Who knows if they'll do it again in the future.
Hurray for insider knowledge.

I have 2.5.57 - and I often have to reset the unit because the audio simply stops.
Also, I'll get a message: Checking for updates - hit 'exit' to continue - or something like that - and then the unit shuts off. Of course, you can't hit exit if you are viewing a recording of the HD output and then of course, the recording is dead air because the unit turned off :(.

If you have the USB key update, please, please PM me. I'd be happy to pay shipping both ways - and I doubt that this is any more illegal than practicing law without a license because USDigital is refusing to support FTA. (Ok, if you'd rather not send the key, I can probably manage making my own - but I need the software).

I called Hisense as well - they were no help (888-935-8880) - they recommended unplugging the unit for 1/2 hour and hung up.
Thanks!
Yackman

Sry to all that have PMed for the files, having computer issues. I'll forward as soon as I get them sorted out.

Perhaps someone else is willing to take up the torch for now?

...I'm a newbie to AVS, jumping in on this topic discovered through googling.

I have a USDTV box, too, 2.5.57 FW level. I'd like to upgrade it. Can anybody provide a usb-stick or files?

Will the usb-stick provided by USDTV convert a subscription box to enable OTA HDTV reception in non-USDTV service areas? If not, how is this known? Did someone try it? Anybody have files from USDTV that would do this conversion?

I've tried PM'ing a few members of the forum on these questions, but no replies.

Thanks.
Jon Bolt
Boise, Idaho

It will not even notice the USB thingy.

However, it will work as an OTA receiver with some limitations. That screaming yellow color not being the least of them.

'paula'...you tried the usb-stick on a subscription box?

...also, if the S-box won't respond to the usb-upgrade, how do you get the box to work as "an OTA receiver with some limitations"? I have a subscription box, but when I have it do a scan where I live now (in a non-USDTV service area), it just reports there are no USDTV signals available, and never permits exiting the setup mode. It will not let you get to a point of selecting/viewing local channels. HOw did you get an s-box to do OTA channel surfing in a non-usdtv area?

thanks.

Sry to all that have PMed for the files, having computer issues. I'll forward as soon as I get them sorted out.

Perhaps someone else is willing to take up the torch for now?

I'd be happy to take up the torch - but I need the files - then I'll post them to my yahoo briefcase. I'd even call Steve Morse at USDigital and ask for permission!

Yackman

I have scanned through this thread looking for any references to firmware versions higher than 2.5.57 for the DB-2010, but have not found any. Can anyone actually confirm a higher version?

I have scanned through this thread looking for any references to firmware versions higher than 2.5.57 for the DB-2010, but have not found any. Can anyone actually confirm a higher version?

Depends which set of numbers you mean. My system info reads as follows:

Software Version: 2.7.11 (2.4.18-15)

Hardware Version: DB2020

It used to read "Hardware Version: DB2010" before I updated it about a year ago with a USB stick, which I sent back.

Whoops. I didn't search carefully enough. Thanks!

Turns out I already have 2.7.11 on my DB-2010, which is apparently the last known version. I have no gripes at all with this box since it was upgraded (actually was swapped out by US Digital last year before they reorganized).

I am just sorry that the entire CE industry has basically abandoned OTA STBs, but that's the subject for another thread! ;)

Hello

I have one of the wallyworld db-2010 that has the system software version 2.7.11 it works very good in fact the different video outputs are great for an analog or digital tv. of course it doesn't have hdmi which I don't really need now.
I would buy another one on ebay but I would be afraid its one of the usdtv only units instead of the ota box. Plus can't upgrade one of them if they had the older software

I contacted usdtv a few days ago below is the response they sent me


--The decision no longer to support the existing receiver was made at the corporate level. We are preparing to release the next generation receiver in 2007. We regret the inconvenience this causes. We must refer you to HISENSE support, if you have not already contacted them.

Sincerely,
USDTV Customer Service--

I wonder if their next generation receiver will operate as a usdtv only and/or ota tuner?
I wonder if we could convience Hisense to at least make more of the db-2010 type units

by the way I tried a samsung dtb-h260f units. It worked well except you could only easily set it up using the hdmi or component outputs. I also lost some of my stations that the db-2010 would pickup. the antenna setup etc on the db-2010 is excellent compared to the samsung unit

I would buy a brand new one of the ota hisense units if they made them

HELP!

I got the files in a .rar file - unzipped them to a windows directory.

Downloaded slax, wrote it to an .iso/CD

I boot slax,
usb drive shows up as /mnt/sda_removable

I fdisk /dev/sda
delete all partitions
n for new

add 1 partition the size of the disk
a to make it bootable
w for write

umount /dev/sda
mkfs /dev/sda1

reboot

use mc to copy files (f5) (2 directories, diagnostics with five files and 000_signatures (with a diagnostics directory and the same five filenames)

umount /dev/sda

Take stick to usdtv receiver - unplug receiver- put stick in - plug back in - nothing happens.

If I just try to turn it off, it just comes right back on where I left it.

I've even tried a full reset with the key combination and it doesn't work.

Where am I going wrong?
ANY SUGGESTIONS?

Yackman

do a chmod on the "start" file in the diagnostics directory, to make it executeable. I went overboard and did chmod 777 on all the files, just in case.

Thanks Jafir - that did the trick. I went double overboard and did chmod 777 on all the files and the directories too before I could get it to work!

Yeah! Good News :)

The firmware update is SWEET. Yackman & Jafir are THE BEST! :D

Glad you guys were finally able to get updated. These units work quite well once the new software is installed. No more audio dropouts or other weird behavior.

I sometimes forget how good they are until I try using my old SIR T451, which crashed HARD today for over a minute just because I tried to use the program guide. I won't make that mistake again.

I hope the new models that US Digital says they will release this year are as good as the old ones, but I'll stick with my DB 2010 for now.

I wonder if their next generation receiver will operate as a usdtv only and/or ota tuner?


Did you ever get a chance to ask them this question after your last e-mail exchange? It would be very interesting to find this out.

Did you ever get a chance to ask them this question after your last e-mail exchange? It would be very interesting to find this out.

Yes, and also, maybe you could ask USDTV for a link to the Hisense Support webpage for the DB 2010, if one exists.

I've been looking for these firmware files forever and I think I finally found them!!!! I already run linux so the bootable usb will be no problem for me if I can get a copy of the files pls. thanks in advance! I'm also willing to host the files if needed and if USDigital doesn't get too mad. Thanks again!!!
my e-mail is matt (at) halenka (dot) com
sorry about the funky e-mail format, but it says I need 5 posts to post a web link. I figured this is ok since I'm not spamming a website or anything.

Great success!

Could someone send me the update files also? Send to spawnmanatyahoodotcom

Thanks

I'm also looking for these files. Any help would be great!

marcum (dot) joe @ gmail (dot) com

Thanks!

Did you ever get a chance to ask them this question after your last e-mail exchange? It would be very interesting to find this out.
Not Yet-I'll give it a shot I need to find the email address again to send to the same person that gave me the response. Hopefully they will respond as quickly as they did originally

If someone still has these files send me a PM for my email address.

Thanks!

Wow, you go away for a while...come back and look at all the activity. I got the files and following the instructions here I got my unit updated.....

Unfortunately...it didn't fix the only problem I've had with the unit. I have one channel local to me (97% signal) that will not work. A scan hangs on this channel 30 (26.1 & 26.2) and if I try to manually add them it just sits there showing me a nice strong signal, but never adds the channels. I do have another adjacent channel 31 (12.1, 12.2 & 12.3) that works fine as well as a couple others.

What could be causing this and does anyone have any ideas about how to overcome this snag now that I have the new firmware?

Oh...by the way...look what I "found" ;-)

http://rapidshare.com/files/13263623/USDTV_Upgrade.zip.html

Anyone needing these, help yourself.

A scan hangs on this channel 30 (26.1 & 26.2) and if I try to manually add them it just sits there showing me a nice strong signal, but never adds the channels. I do have another adjacent channel 31 (12.1, 12.2 & 12.3) that works fine as well as a couple others.

I could never get WAGT-DT (26.x) to lock in with this unit, either, even on the infrequent occasions that I can get a strong signal. I can occasionally get it at night on the two receivers that I'm using now (Samsung DTB-H260F and Sony DHG-HDD500), along with WRDW-DT (12.x) and WJBF-DT (6.x).

After 4 days I finally upgraded my box. The interface is great BUT if you open the TV guide the audio is cut also there are a lot more channel dropouts other than that its a wonderful upgrade.

Since the upgrade is linux and if the upgrade files are open source we could modify the files and add our own upgrades.

Does anyone have a step by step tutorial for transfering the upgrade files to a usb stick for the db-2010?

thanks

Does anyone have a step by step tutorial for transfering the upgrade files to a usb stick for the db-2010?

thanks

Starting here: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9436126&&#post9436126

I think posts 388-390 in this thread do a pretty good job of that. If the instructions there don't tell you enough to get the job done, find yourself a teenaged computer geek :D and let them read those posts.

Since the upgrade is linux and if the upgrade files are open source we could modify the files and add our own upgrades.

Good luck with that one. Hahahahahaha!

Not that is isn't possible though, I've seen someone capture boot messages from the device by connecting to a serial port in the device. Boots like a pretty normal linux machine as far as those messages looked. Have you looked at the upgrade files though? They're not in a very helpful format for modding purposes. They might even need to be signed by some key that we have no hope of getting, therefore no hope of making our own mods. I'm also guessing they aren't completely open-source. Prolly some proprietary bios, etc... If you're an experienced hardware hacker, good luck to you. If you're a kid with a screwdriver, a linux live cd, and a brand new t-shirt with the numbers "1337" on it, oh hell I've made my point.

"Does anyone have a step by step tutorial for transferring the upgrade files to a usb stick for the db-2010?"

"I think posts 388-390 in this thread do a pretty good job of that. If the instructions there don't tell you enough to get the job done, find yourself a teenaged computer geek and let them read those posts."

I re-read those posts, I got to tell you, it may as well be in sanskrit.

I just got two of these units at my Walmart yesterday. They have been setting there on the shelf for 2 years on clearance for 129.00. A clerk happened to be in the aisle working and I told her thats how long they have been there on clearance and and they would be setting there another 2 years at that price. I told her if she talked to the manager and he/she could help with the price I would buy them. He called back with a deal of 75.00ea, so I bought them. One was unopened and one I could tell was a return.

Here's my details.
Both have firmware 2.5.41(2.4.18-7)

I have a Pent IV w/ Windows 2000Pro

I downloaded the file to save on my computer in my documents.It is still a zipped file. I opened the file to look at it. Its on notepad, more sanskrit. Do I need Linux to get this to work?

Do I need a usb drive? could I just run a usb cable from my computer to the box?
The file is zipped, do I just copy the zipped file to a usb drive?

Could someone please do a detailed step by step, beginning with the download on the website posted above to actually ending up with an updated box?

If I am stuck as unable with my computer to install the latest firmware I would be willing to mail a usb drive to someone to install it on the drive.
I'm not as computer illiterate as I sound, I can follow directions, I just want to get it right.

Thanks,

Step 1:

Find somebody who has a PC running Linux, or take the dive and install it on your computer yourself. The steps outlined have to be done while running Linux.

Step 2:

Print out the instructions and give them to your friend, along with a blank USB Flash drive. Anyone who has several months experience running Linux should be able to figure the directions out.

Step 3:

Insert the USB Flash drive into the unit and power up. If everything was done correctly, the unit should update itself automatically. If not, at least you still have second unit (just kidding!)

Ok,

I have a spare computer lying around with no OS on it. If I make this slax download and insert the disk into the spare computer it will boot up with this slax disk correct? Then I can either download the upgrade files to this computer or transfer the file from my main computer. Am I off base with this?

I always wanted to install Linux on this spare computer, is there a good site to create a linux os system to boot from via download? Sorry for asking, I have in the past tried this route without success. There a many versions with different names available.....

Now as far as the usb drive, could I substitute a USB card reader with an SD card with the download on it, or do I need to get a usb stick drive? ( I know, they are cheap.) ( I inserted the USB card reader to the US Digital Box and the Card reader indicator lights lit up an it was getting power).

Don't know anyone nearby running Linux.

Thanks,au revoir for your response

Have not received any responses back from usdtv on new set top box coming out probably only for usdtv subscription service areas.

It's really odd to me that a lot of posts at several different forums and reviews on different brands of set tops during the last few years you keep reading that the db-2010's aspect ratio and tuning ability was better than some of the new at the time sammy units.

From my experience with the db-2010 the channel changes are faster the menus are easier to get to

It's too bad you can't trust ebay sellers to sell you a real fta unit instead of the old subscription units that you could upgrade yourself.....

Makes you wonder why Hisense doesn't restart making and selling their own set top boxes again. The only real addition they would need would be to have the dvi port...

Ok,

I have a spare computer lying around with no OS on it. If I make this slax download and insert the disk into the spare computer it will boot up with this slax disk correct? Then I can either download the upgrade files to this computer or transfer the file from my main computer. Am I off base with this?

I always wanted to install Linux on this spare computer, is there a good site to create a linux os system to boot from via download? Sorry for asking, I have in the past tried this route without success. There a many versions with different names available.....

Now as far as the usb drive, could I substitute a USB card reader with an SD card with the download on it, or do I need to get a usb stick drive? ( I know, they are cheap.) ( I inserted the USB card reader to the US Digital Box and the Card reader indicator lights lit up an it was getting power).

Don't know anyone nearby running Linux.

Thanks,au revoir for your response

I have been playing around with Linux on and off for about 5 years. If all you want to do is upgrade your USDTV receiver, then the amount of time and effort required to get Linux up and running is definitely NOT worth it.

However, if you wanted to learn to run Linux anyway, this is as good an excuse as any to jump in and start eroding some of Microsoft's market share. Below is a link to download Nubuntu Linux. This version is said to be the most new-user-friendly.

http://nubuntu.org/downloads.php

I don't have a high speed connection, so I had to buy my copy at Best Buy. I'm using Suse 10.1, which cost me around $60. I can find you a link to legitimately download the latest version of Suse for free if you are interested. I think you may have to do some research on how to make what you download and burn to a disc "bootable" but never having gone this route I don't know.

Newer versions of Linux are very good at recognizing your hardware, especially older hardware. So it's to your advantage that you will be installing on an older computer.

Just remember that in Linux nearly everything will work different than Windows. So knowing too much about Windows and expecting everything to work in exactly the same way is something to be avoided at all costs.

There are plenty of forums specific to whichever version you decide to go with that can answer your questions (you'll have plenty). I hope you have lots of patience, because you'll need that in spades. And also a spare Windows computer to get on the net to do research and find various downloads.

All that said, I'm surfing the net right now as I type in Suse Linux, so it is doable. Once you get on the internet, it gets much much easier. Good luck!

PS: Your card reader SHOULD work for the firmware flash, provided that it has only one card slot. If it's the universal type that accepts several different types of card, I don't think it will work. Flash drives are only around $15, and will pay for themselves quickly in not having to waste CD-R's to transfer files. I would just invest in one anyway, they are quite handy.

This thread has been a great source of information, I've actually read the whole thing but I'm looking for confirmation on a couple of things.

Background: I recently acquired a used 32" Zenith HD television with no ATSC tuner, so I am looking for inexpensive ways to get HD programming OTA. I live in Salt Lake City, UT. The DB-2010 set top box sounds ideal, but as you're no doubt aware, unscrupulous people have sold the subscription version on ebay. I understand that what I want is the free OTA non-subscription version.

It sounds like it's hard to differentiate between the versions, example post #58 in an archived thread (can't post the URL, sorry):

I have an eBay box, it has the yellow UI and displays the USDTV logo with a black backgroun on power up (after being uplugged). I can get the local channels now with no problem, but apparently I am on borrowed time? Is it true that eventually it will stop working? Has that happened to others with units with the yellow UI that worked at first?

I also have a good box, it has the blue UI and displays USDigital in text with a blue background on power up (after an unplug).

Apparently neither the appearance of the case nor the ID# are a valid way of identifying which type you are dealing with, because in my case both have an ID that begins with 0000-0A.

What I wonder is, if you have a $200 walmart box, and get a subscription, does the UI change to yellow, or does it always stay blue even with a subscription? If it changes to yellow, then it would be possible for a $200 box to end up with a yellow UI. I would think in that case that it would continue to work after the subscription expired, for local channels anyway.


Post #59 in that same thread says,

I called USDTV and was told that the boxes can best be differentiated by their serial numbers:

Service box - 8 digit SN starting with 000 (three zeros - mine starts with 000)

Free box - 12 digit SN typically starting with 3

Can someone with the free OTA non-subscription versions verify that this is a sure way to tell the difference? I have an opportunity to buy a DB-2010 from someone locally (former employee of USDTV apparently, their corporate is just miles from my workplace) and he's going to email me the S/N. He has generously offered to refund my money if it doesn't work for free OTA signals but I'd rather not waste his time or mine if it can be ruled out via the S/N.

Thanks in advance!

c/n Looking for a surefire way to determine subscription / non-subscription box w/o actually buying it, hauling it home, hooking up TV, antenna, etc.

au revoir,

Thanks again for the info.

The weather in the northeast has been bad. I think everyone was out of school and off work, surfing the internet Tues and Wed. It wasn't even worth trying to download anything. I did try to download a version called Linux freespire I believe, with bit torrent. It was taking forever, so I just cancelled it.

Ebay has a lot of versions of Linux for under 10$ shipped, so I am perusing these options.

By the way I have a One for All 8910 remote and I called them and they played me a file to play through my speakers, to update my remote. Its slick, and now my URC basically just works like the US digital remote, I don't like using learning keys, I run out of learning keys too quickly.

I just wanted to pass that along since some are buying this box on ebay and they dont always have the remote with it and its basically a boat anchor without the remote. This is a very cheap way to have get a remote if you have an upgradeable One for All.

So you say the upgrade is not all that, OK I'm in no hurry to upgrade it. I'll do it as I get my old PC installed with Linux. I like learning new things, and working with PC's so it'll be a hobby type thing.

I do think and I'm not imaging this, but the US digital to me has a smoother more film like picture on my Hitachi RPTV than the Samsung Sir-T151 that I have. I couldn't get the Samsung to look the same playing with the Hitachi's pictures user controls. This is using component for both. I had both boxes hooked up to two component ins and was flipping back and forth.

However, if you wanted to learn to run Linux anyway, this is as good an excuse as any to jump in and start eroding some of Microsoft's market share. Below is a link to download Nubuntu Linux. This version is said to be the most new-user-friendly.

Not nUbuntu, Ubuntu. Nubuntu is a special distribution for security testing.
http://www.ubuntu.com/products/GetUbuntu

Not nUbuntu, Ubuntu. Nubuntu is a special distribution for security testing.
http://www.ubuntu.com/products/GetUbuntu

:o

Sorry for the bad link.

And thanks for the good link, madlobster! I just ordered an Ubuntu DVD from Amazon for $9.99 using the link you provided. It's supposed to ship today. I've always wanted to try that distribution, and would have sooner if I knew it was so cheap to just order the disc.

As a follow up to yesterday's post, the SN on the DB2010 I was looking at begins with "000" and is eight digits long, sounds like it's a subscription-only one. I called USDTV and they said the only way to get a subscription STB to work is to sign up for a year of service. They can't convert it. :( So it sounds like that one won't work for me.

Still wondering if the SN is a reliable way of verifying whether one has a subscription only or FTA version.

Still wondering if the SN is a reliable way of verifying whether one has a subscription only or FTA version.I don't think it's reliable I have one of the fta units and one of the subscription units. They both have serial numbers that are 8 digits long and start with 3 zeroes

I also tried to correlate the logos on the front panel I don't think that's reliable either My fta unit has usdigital hdtv receiver on the right hand side of the faceplate and the subscription unit has usdtv hdtv receiver on the right hand side of the faceplate

Wonder if anyone else on this thread can verify the faceplate logos?

Wish Hisense would start building these units again...

My fta unit has usdigital hdtv receiver on the right hand side of the faceplate and the subscription unit has usdtv hdtv receiver on the right hand side of the faceplate
My fta unit is the same on the right side. On the far left hand side there is a logo

"US
DTV
Ready"

And just to the right of that:

"High Definition Television
HDTV
Tuner"

As you guys have already confirmed USDTV's customer service is useless. At least they were polite to me...but absolutely refused to help out with the firmware update. They simply state that the 2010 is no longer supported by their company (yeah, B.S.) Hisense is a Chinese company whose customer service to English speaking consumers is non-existent.

Anyway I betcha that my unit has the oldest firmware. It has 2.5.41 !!!

Real old, that firmware is from early 2004...ancient and unstable.

If anyone needs this receiver updated, it's me. This thing is so buggy it's ridiculous. Needs a power cycle every couple days due to lock-ups.

I hope the new firmware improves video scaling as well. 1080i introduces horizontal artifacting, while 480p and 720p instigates image flicker. 480i via component is actually the most stable setting, although sacrificing HD resolution is not worth it.

Kewik,

Good Luck with this one. I have the same firmware. I want to upgrade too. I think I have all the pieces of the puzzle to do it. I have been playing around with the following pieces of the puzzle.

My pieces:

Old Dell V400
Linux Freespire from ebay.
download from post 403 of this thread.
USB Flash Drive

I have no experience with Linux, but somehow got the unzipped download to the USB drive. Plugged the usb drive into the uplugged receiver and powered on.

Nothing. No upgrade.

I have wasted a few hours reading some above posts trying to use the limited info to get it to work for me. I have just about said F--- -t.

Good luck. If you can get it to work please post detailed instructions.

Weren't there some discussions earlier in this thread about how to make the flash drive bootable by changing some file names? I have not created a bootable flash drive so I will not attempt to give any advice. I really thought someone else with actual experience would chime in. Maybe someone will this weekend.

Sorry you got left hanging Ange! Don't give up, just walk away from it for a while.

Kewik,

Good Luck with this one. I have the same firmware. I want to upgrade too. I think I have all the pieces of the puzzle to do it. I have been playing around with the following pieces of the puzzle.

My pieces:

Old Dell V400
Linux Freespire from ebay.
download from post 403 of this thread.
USB Flash Drive

I have no experience with Linux, but somehow got the unzipped download to the USB drive. Plugged the usb drive into the uplugged receiver and powered on.

Nothing. No upgrade.

I have wasted a few hours reading some above posts trying to use the limited info to get it to work for me. I have just about said F--- -t.

Good luck. If you can get it to work please post detailed instructions.

Hi Angelo, don't give up yet. Although Linux seems intimidating at first, it's not actually that difficult to work with. I have a little experience compiling programs with various distributions...so I'm not completely lost here.

Simply extracting the upgrade files to your thumbdrive was not good enough. As was shown earlier, the stick must be repartitioned and formatted as a bootable drive. Use the MKFS command within the terminal in order to accomplish that step. _Then_ you extract the files to the flash and make them executable by using the CHMOD 777 command on each one of them. After that, the update should work.

I have to get my hands on some install disks. My Red Hat disks are lost, my SuSE 10.0 disk is unreadable, and the first Mandrake 9.1 install disk is gouged. I'll have to fish something up somewhere.\\

Ken

Hey KewIK, I did some research and found a couple of places that will send you a burned copy of any Linux distro you need for really cheap ($8-9). I just got SUSE 10.2, and the KDE desktop is really beautiful. I also got the newest Mandriva 2007 release, which comes with the 3-D desktop effects, also gorgeous.

Thanks for the bootable flash info, it doesn't look too hard, provided he can figure out how to navigate to the flash drive from the terminal.

Hey KewIK, I did some research and found a couple of places that will send you a burned copy of any Linux distro you need for really cheap ($8-9). I just got SUSE 10.2, and the KDE desktop is really beautiful. I also got the newest Mandriva 2007 release, which comes with the 3-D desktop effects, also gorgeous.

Thanks for the bootable flash info, it doesn't look too hard, provided he can figure out how to navigate to the flash drive from the terminal.

Hi au revoir. Please p.m. me the places that sell the copied distros that cheap. I'd be interested in the latest SuSE, Fedora and Mandriva releases. Because Linux is GNU, selling/buying their isos is perfectly legal.

Anyway....success! Just updated the firmware half an hour ago. This update is _A MUST_. It's like a whole new receiver now and a very good one at that. Much greater stability with some more useful features. Slick window skins, better program guide, more cc and channel control options, and better picture quality. This thing is great *and to think* I almost donated it to my brother. :p

I used Feather Linux since it was small enough for quick broadband download (just under 120MB) and has excellent pcmcia and usb support with a nice desktop. Boots off a cd-r and runs entirely in ram (no need for hard drive installation). Download the iso here: http://feather.gus.to/mirror/feather-0.7.5.iso

Very easy to do. I'll post detailed instructions tomorrow for all who are interested. The CHMOD command was not at all necessary. Just a matter of repartitioning the thumbdrive as bootable and formatting it with the ext2 file system..then transferring the two main directories containing the update files.

I attached a few pictures of the update experience below.

Glad you were able to get updated, these are really great receivers once that's done. You can actually channel surf, and the tiny screen in the corner of the programming guide is cool too.

I thought I would go ahead and post the Linux disc places here, and if the mods have a problem with that, I can PM you. The only one I personally can vouch for is Cheap Bytes located in Lodi, CA. I used them mainly because I'm in CA, plus they were recommended to me. I got my discs in about 3 days via a large US Postal envelope:

http://www.cheapbytes.com/

The other place (OS Disc.com) I know of is out of Colorado, It appears to be slightly cheaper and offers free shipping for orders over $20 However, I have not ordered from them, so can't personally vouch for them.

http://www.osdisc.com/cgi-bin/view.cgi/index.html

The update can probably also be used by people who are running Mac OS X. The same Unix utilities are available on the command line in a Terminal window. You might not need to use mkfs, because the Mac OS Disk Utility application can format volumes with a Unix file system.

But I'm not going to try it myself... I already upgraded my box with a flash drive from USDTV about a year ago, so I'm not going to risk messing it up.

If the box needs to see an ext2 file system, MacOS X won't work using the "mkfs" method.

However I'm a bit confused as to why people are going through all the trouble to mkfs the stick and copy over files when it should be trivial to use "dd" to copy the raw data from a "master" stick that can then be used to create any number of "slave" sticks, regardless of whether the host OS is Linux, Solaris, MacOS X or any other OS that can write raw bytes to a USB stick.

kewlk replied:

"Very easy to do. I'll post detailed instructions tomorrow for all who are interested"


Don't forget now!!!

Hello,

One thing that has not been pointed out is USDTV is violating the GPL by not posting its source code for the DB-2010. I know Dish Network has released the source code for its Linux-based STBs. Perhaps if we would put some pressure on them to release the source code, custom firmware, or at least legal update files would be more readily available.

If the box needs to see an ext2 file system, MacOS X won't work using the "mkfs" method.

However I'm a bit confused as to why people are going through all the trouble to mkfs the stick and copy over files when it should be trivial to use "dd" to copy the raw data from a "master" stick that can then be used to create any number of "slave" sticks, regardless of whether the host OS is Linux, Solaris, MacOS X or any other OS that can write raw bytes to a USB stick.

I considered this solution as well. Two problems with providing an image though. First one is that data capacity should ideally be exactly the same from source stick to destination.

Second problem. I among others, don't see the point of reposting redundant information anyway. It is extremely easy to prepare a stick for the upgrade from scratch, so why bother?

Anyway, this is how I did it... First off, this is impossible to prepare the stick within any version of Windows (at least natively or with any freeware programs). Get your hands on a release of Linux that has a decent gui file manager pre installed like Feather or Slax (most of them do). A couple good file managers that I like are Rox and Konqueror.

It is important that you have a basic idea of what the "x" terminal is. It is a text based command line interface inspired by good old DOS, yet completely unique. For a beginner, think of opening the x terminal on a linux desktop similar to opening an MS-DOS prompt window in Windows.

There is something else you need to know. Under Windows, at boot all of your installed drives are normally immediately accessible and labeled with letters. With Linux, they are not immediately accessible nor labeled with letters (rather by what I call a device identifier), which btw is a very smart idea to help further protect data security and integrity.

Unmounted and mounted are the inaccessible and accessible drive states. A drive's partition table under Linux can only be modified when it is unmounted. Files are normally manipulated, copied, or moved when involved drives are mounted (although there is is way to do this with unmounted drives also...but who cares).

Do some more research on the net if you have no clue what I've just attempted to explain.

Open an x terminal window. It should be opened from root, not your linux directory ("a" terminal).

Type the following then hit enter:

cfdisk /dev/sda

Okay, looks almost just like dos fdisk with basic graphical menu, doesn't it? Delete your FAT16 primary partition you already see on the stick. Make a new primary partition to full capacity of the stick. Then activate the boot flag to make it bootable. Finally, select write. Exit cfdisk.

The x terminal window should still be open. Type, then hit enter:

mkfs /dev/sda1

You have just properly repartitioned and reformatted the stick with the ext2 file system.

Now, using any available file manager, copy the 000_signatures -and- diagnostics directories with all contained files to your usb stick. The drive will automatically be mounted for writing by the utility.

You could alternatively use the "mc" copy command within "x", but I don't recommend it. Remember to mount the drive manually in "x" before trying. Do that by typing "mount /dev/sda" then hitting enter.

Shut down linux...the stick is ready. Unplug your receiver, insert the stick in, then plug into the AC again.

***NOW WAIT*** The update takes several minutes to complete. Pray that you don't have a power outage or your receiver will be trashed.

The receiver will reset itself and bring you to a setup screen after the update is complete.

You're welcome in advance.

Forgot to mention to all you linux newbies that all of your drive icons (including sda1...your usb stick) are located in the "mnt" folder within root.

Glad you were able to get updated, these are really great receivers once that's done. You can actually channel surf, and the tiny screen in the corner of the programming guide is cool too.

I thought I would go ahead and post the Linux disc places here, and if the mods have a problem with that, I can PM you. The only one I personally can vouch for is Cheap Bytes located in Lodi, CA. I used them mainly because I'm in CA, plus they were recommended to me. I got my discs in about 3 days via a large US Postal envelope:

http://www.cheapbytes.com/

The other place (OS Disc.com) I know of is out of Colorado, It appears to be slightly cheaper and offers free shipping for orders over $20 However, I have not ordered from them, so can't personally vouch for them.

http://www.osdisc.com/cgi-bin/view.cgi/index.html

Thanks, I'll check these places out. Nice pricing.

Hello, is anybody with USDTV hardware still subscribing to their HDTV channels? I remember their business plan was based on buying bandwidth from local OTA HDTV stations, which was reducing the quality of the OTA we are supposed to get for free (since the OTA stations are using bandwidth allowed by the national taxpayer owned airwaves).

I'm just wondering if shenanigans like that are still happening.

Hello, is anybody with USDTV hardware still subscribing to their HDTV channels? I remember their business plan was based on buying bandwidth from local OTA HDTV stations, which was reducing the quality of the OTA we are supposed to get for free (since the OTA stations are using bandwidth allowed by the national taxpayer owned airwaves).

I'm just wondering if shenanigans like that are still happening.

Hi Kevin, I myself am not within the miniscule service area for USDTV. I'm into premium digital cable regardless. However, I too was curious just how many subscribers there are to this service.

The most recent figure that can be found (as of late 2006) is only 14,000 subscribers. It's no wonder they went bankrupt! The entire company is worth only about 26 million dollars.

NexGen Telecom, LLC now owns them.

USDTV died today. For good. Possible mods to the set top box to allow terrestrial HD pickup:

http://deseretnews.com/dn/view/0,1249,660200866,00.html

RIP USDTV

I'm going to seem mean...but good riddance to a poor idea.

Their service was leaching precious limited bandwidth allocated by the FCC meant exclusively for our local digital channels. If USDTV had actually caught on nationwide, say goodbye to the quality primetime high-def broadcasting we so enjoy.

8VSB (the modulation of the new ATSC standard) has been limited to MPEG2 which is a _massive data hog_. If the more advanced MPEG4 had been adopted as the primary video codec instead (as in Japan)...well then, I reason that there would have been plenty of room for USDTV to safely co-exist without disrupting the system.

All in all, thanks USDTV for a nice OTA receiver. We all owe you at least some gratitude. But as Napier -The Joker- exclaimed to Grissom (or was it that other guy?) in the first Batman movie: "I'm glad your dead!" :rolleyes:

USDTV Set-Top Box Conversion

USDTV has made arrangements with a third party installation company to convert the USDTV set-top box so as to continue receiving free over-the-air local digital and high definitions TV channels without the USDTV cable service.

This is a great advantage prior to the nationwide analog TV shutdown in Feb 2009, when you will be required to have a digital converter box for any TV without a digital tuner built-in.

To have your USDTV set-top box converted to a free over-the-air receiver contact:

Cable Communications, LLC
801-553-9527

USDTV Set-Top Box Conversion

USDTV has made arrangements with a third party installation company to convert the USDTV set-top box so as to continue receiving free over-the-air local digital and high definitions TV channels without the USDTV cable service.

This is a great advantage prior to the nationwide analog TV shutdown in Feb 2009, when you will be required to have a digital converter box for any TV without a digital tuner built-in.

To have your USDTV set-top box converted to a free over-the-air receiver contact:

Cable Communications, LLC
801-553-9527

Yep, for those of you who were unsuccessful updating your firmware...here's your alternative. They would have to update the firmware in order to make them free ota boxes.

Hmmm...makes me wonder if firmware version 2.7.11 is still the latest. I'm willing to bet that there is something more recent.

Someone please find out.....

"After losing a financial backer who helped it after bankruptcy, low-cost wireless digital-TV service USDTV is ceasing operations and shutting down.

The closure of USDTV, which was four years old, will affect about 7,200 subscribers in Salt Lake City; Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas; Albuquerque, N.M.; and Las Vegas.

Salt Lake City-based USDTV blamed its demise on the withdrawal of financing from its major investor, NexGen Telecom, which experienced a setback in another business. . ."

continues <http://www.multichannel.com/article/CA6421803.html?display=Breaking+News>

The link will probably change so check the root
<http://www.multichannel.com/>

I wrote their "third party installation company" last night with the following (sent to cablecommunications at gmail, the email listed on their website... very official, using Gmail, huh? Just wait, it gets better):

Hi, I just purchased a few USDTV boxes a week ago with the plans to install them in the living room and bedroom (I've previously had your service). Now I hear you're shutting down- can I get these units converted to normal digital over the air reception? It'll be a far cry from the USDTV programming package, but better than having wasted the money on nothing.

Thank you,

Michael xxxxx
(801) xxx-xxxx

This morning I woke up to this reply (from "Michael Knight!" I wonder where KITT is these days?):

Hi,
Converting your receiver(s) requires a technician to come to your location and re-load the software. There is a small one time charge of $30.00 for the first receiver and $5.00 for each additional receiver. If you would like to schedule a technician, please call (801) 553-9527. Thanks

It could just be me, but this pissed me off. As we all very well know, 're-loading the software' involves sticking a USB flash drive in the back and restarting the unit... five minutes tops. Remember when USDTV was sending these sticks out for free to the people who got scammed on Ebay and bought the subscription version instead of the $200 OTA HD receiver? This new "small one time charge" strikes me as another way to suck money out of a failed business model.

So we have two choices. Obviously, the subscriptions boxes WILL continue to receive free OTA digital programming if they were previously signed up for service. It won't be as aesthetically pleasing (ugly yellow GUI and different firmware), and if your receiver ever gets fully reset for any reason (accidentally or on purpose to cure glitches) you're SOL because there's no way to re-activate it now that USD has closed its doors. You'll own a silver paperweight. Or if you're in the right area, you can shell out $30 and get a 'tech' to come to your house, spend a few minutes doing something my 8-year-old can do, then leave. Your box will then be the "full" version that doesn't need any activation, and you don't need to be scared of it being reset.

What I'm wondering is, what about the hundreds/thousands of people that aren't in the SLC area? For $30, will they mail you a USB key? Or does that cost even more? Or maybe they've contracted out someplace that's in every single state (which I seriously doubt, judging by the unprofessional Gmail setup). I'm hoping someone out of their area will write them and find out, posting their findings here.* I also think someone with one of these USB drives should post the source data to the web. Thanks to this thread, I already know where to get the latest firmware update online which adds some functionality and bug fixing, but doesn't convert the set-top box to non-subscription. Am I alone here in my ramblings, or does anyone else agree with me?

*PS. So far it seems that whomever is at that "cablecommunications" Gmail only responds to locals. I sent an email from an alternate address giving another location and have yet to have a reply back. I'm really starting to think that some average Joe bought out the rights to the USB sticks for $50 and will now milk all he can from everyone within driving distance. Mailing out even a single stick would risk losing all his hard-earned (/sarcasm) profits! Hopefully I'm proven wrong; I'll keep you all updated, as I hope you will with your efforts.

*PS. So far it seems that whomever is at that "cablecommunications" Gmail only responds to locals. I sent an email from an alternate address giving another location and have yet to have a reply back. I'm really starting to think that some average Joe bought out the rights to the USB sticks for $50 and will now milk all he can from everyone within driving distance. Mailing out even a single stick would risk losing all his hard-earned (/sarcasm) profits! Hopefully I'm proven wrong; I'll keep you all updated, as I hope you will with your efforts.

Very suspicious indeed. Something is seriously wrong about this arrangement.

I sent the following message to USDTV Customer Service. I will let you know if I hear anything back.

Hello,

I would like to have my boxes converted, but I don't need a technician to come to my house for $30. I would prefer to take the boxes directly to Cable Communications to have them converted and avoid the fee. Cable Communications is not picking up their phone or responding to e-mails very quickly. It would be nice to have the USB keys more available than through one Utah company, and companies in other USDTV markets need to be able to do the upgrade too.

It would be even better if you made the USB files available for download for skilled people. If you go over to the AVS forum, there are people who have been making their own upgrade sticks for a while. The files are a small download and the instructions are easy to follow for anyone who is computer savvy.

Please call me or e-mail me to see if we can arrange something.

Thanks, oldscool! I hope someone (or the someone) there responds back. My out-of-area email to them never got responded to; more unprofessional behavior. I guess there's no money in helping out someone they can't drive to. USDTV could have exited out of business with style and class, offering a simple tiny download off their website so customers could update boxes themselves. Anyone decently talented in programming could make an application that blind-writes an image file to a USB thumb drive, creating the proper partition and structure with no Linux knowledge needed. Instead they turn it into a local profit scheme and further punish customers. I used to use their service and promote it to others... now I think I'm glad they're gone.

Edit: It's come up in another thread that we don't know for sure if this firmware update we have will work on a subscription box. We have the following data:

It will not even notice the USB thingy.

However, it will work as an OTA receiver with some limitations. That screaming yellow color not being the least of them.

'paula'...you tried the usb-stick on a subscription box?

...also, if the S-box won't respond to the usb-upgrade, how do you get the box to work as "an OTA receiver with some limitations"? I have a subscription box, but when I have it do a scan where I live now (in a non-USDTV service area), it just reports there are no USDTV signals available, and never permits exiting the setup mode. It will not let you get to a point of selecting/viewing local channels. HOw did you get an s-box to do OTA channel surfing in a non-usdtv area?

thanks.

Has anyone tried updating a subscription box using the USB key? Or does it really "not notice the USB thingy?" I've owned a few of the subscription boxes, and if they've been activated at some point (gotten past the "call usdtv" screen) they do receive local digital signals just fine. I know someone who is still using theirs, though it's no longer the horrid yellow GUI- it received periodic software updates over the air from USDTV and now has the new blue interface with preview screen in the guide. If I can get ahold of a few subscription boxes (have a source, working on it) I'll try it myself and report my findings. In the meantime- anyone know for sure?

CharredPC, I completely agree. Also, I'd like to know where Hisense is in all this. They could put the files and instructions on their site, since it really is their box, and it's marketed in other areas of the world, with (I assume) Hisense firmware. Technically, USDTV and Hisense should both have the files and source code available for download on their site, as part of GPL compliance. These Hisense boxes have the potential to be like the Linux-based wireless routers with custom firmware, but locking them down to a tiny company like Cable Communications is crazy.

Thanks, oldscool! I hope someone (or the someone) there responds back. My out-of-area email to them never got responded to; more unprofessional behavior. I guess there's no money in helping out someone they can't drive to. USDTV could have exited out of business with style and class, offering a simple tiny download off their website so customers could update boxes themselves. Anyone decently talented in programming could make an application that blind-writes an image file to a USB thumb drive, creating the proper partition and structure with no Linux knowledge needed. Instead they turn it into a local profit scheme and further punish customers. I used to use their service and promote it to others... now I think I'm glad they're gone.

Edit: It's come up in another thread that we don't know for sure if this firmware update we have will work on a subscription box. We have the following data:

Has anyone tried updating a subscription box using the USB key? Or does it really "not notice the USB thingy?" I've owned a few of the subscription boxes, and if they've been activated at some point (gotten past the "call usdtv" screen) they do receive local digital signals just fine. I know someone who is still using theirs, though it's no longer the horrid yellow GUI- it received periodic software updates over the air from USDTV and now has the new blue interface with preview screen in the guide. If I can get ahold of a few subscription boxes (have a source, working on it) I'll try it myself and report my findings. In the meantime- anyone know for sure?

I have one of the subscription boxes located in tennessee it will not reconize the usb flashdrive.
I tried the same update on my fta box and it states the upgrade was already installed (which I had expected I had the 2.7.11 upgrade installed already). which means my usb flashdrive I made will at least work.

Hopefully we can get our hands on the subscription to fta upgrade soon. There is a 4 pin port on top of the motherboard that are transmit and receive pins i assume a serial port. maybe there is a way to communicate with the motherboard with it and upgrade it that way. I got that information googling hisense and linux. It takes you to site talking about the cpu etc in the db-2010. I also noticed a printout of the information in the cpu probably the fta unit only

I really like the db-2010 because channel changing is very fast compared to other tuners I have seen....

I have one of the subscription boxes located in tennessee it will not reconize the usb flashdrive.

Thanks for the info... it's a shame, but it's what I expected.

Hopefully we can get our hands on the subscription to fta upgrade soon. There is a 4 pin port on top of the motherboard that are transmit and receive pins i assume a serial port. maybe there is a way to communicate with the motherboard with it and upgrade it that way. I got that information googling hisense and linux. It takes you to site talking about the cpu etc in the db-2010. I also noticed a printout of the information in the cpu probably the fta unit only

Any printout of the cpu or hardware aspects would be the same for the Subscription or FTA boxes- the (using old terminology) $20 and $200 versions were identical hardware, it's the internal software that separated the two. A software update can change one to the other; we just need to get our hands on it.

CharredPC, I completely agree. Also, I'd like to know where Hisense is in all this. They could put the files and instructions on their site, since it really is their box, and it's marketed in other areas of the world, with (I assume) Hisense firmware. Technically, USDTV and Hisense should both have the files and source code available for download on their site, as part of GPL compliance. These Hisense boxes have the potential to be like the Linux-based wireless routers with custom firmware, but locking them down to a tiny company like Cable Communications is crazy.

Hisense could easily help, but they won't. Before I found this thread, I had already emailed them a very polite letter. Just asked for some simple advice concerning this product (nothing to do with firmware upgrading). They never responded.

Two possibilities: they understood my English just fine and rudely ignored me. ...Or because they are headquartered in China, there is that potential language barrier. Maybe the majority of their customer service is only fluent in Chinese? Heck, their entire website is.

Hey guys,

Great forum, I have a S-reciever (longtime loyal USDTV customer) and wanted to convert to OTA but now I'm out of state...

Just got a response from USDTV customer service (good to know they are still answering email)

"Sorry we were not in touch as fast as you wanted we are experiencing extremly high volume at this time. We can help if you can be patient while we tend to our current customers. Call us at (801) 553-9527. The cost to send a key is $18.00, then you can do the software update to receive the free to air channels.Thanks"

USDTV forwarded my e-mail to Michael Knight, who sent a standard response. I finally got a hold of Cable Communications and set an appointment, but based on Flymonkey's response, I sent the following response to them. We'll see what happens.

I have already scheduled an appointment, but I would rather purchase a USDTV key for $18. According to USDTV, this is possible. I have attached the response below.

"Sorry we were not in touch as fast as you wanted we are experiencing extremly high volume at this time. We can help if you can be patient while we tend to our current customers. Call us at (801) 553-9527. The cost to send a key is $18.00, then you can do the software update to receive the free to air channels.Thanks"

I just received an email from cable communications about an email I sent last night

What I wrote:

"Could you help me out? I have one of the locked subscription usdtv boxes
that I mistakenly bought from ebay that the seller claimed it was a fta
unit.
Can you send me an address/information that I could possibly send this
unit to to have it converted to an fta unit. I would be willing to pay
return shipping and the service charge

Please send information to this email address or to
Sxxxxx xxxxxx
xxxxxxx
xxxxxTn xxxxx
phone xxx-xxx-xxx

I know beware of buying items on ebay.

--
Thanks
Sxxxxxx xxxxxx"

Michael Knight's response was:

"Some one will be in touch shortly. Thanks"

I kind of went overboard on the questions Don't know who'll be contacting me but I'll let everyone know what info I get from cable communications. I should have asked if I could just send the motherboard. But from previous post looks like we already have a way to fix these units possibly even cheaper :D Looks like they are responding to us....

Hey guys,

Great forum, I have a S-reciever (longtime loyal USDTV customer) and wanted to convert to OTA but now I'm out of state...

Just got a response from USDTV customer service (good to know they are still answering email)

"Sorry we were not in touch as fast as you wanted we are experiencing extremly high volume at this time. We can help if you can be patient while we tend to our current customers. Call us at (801) 553-9527. The cost to send a key is $18.00, then you can do the software update to receive the free to air channels.Thanks"

Excellent work, flymonkey! I will personally pay for that key once you're done with it, and spread it to the masses (unless you'd rather). I still have gotten no response from them, so consider yourself lucky... maybe the difference is you contacted USDTV CS instead of the posted Gmail address? Looking forward to hearing how it all turns out :)

Edit addendum: Looks like someone over at USDTV is trying to control the rampant money-sucking going on (slightly). Remember when I reported the $30 fee, plus $5 for every other box after the initial one? Now the USDTV website reads:

There is a $30 service charge to have a technician come to your home and upload the new software onto your reciever(s). The $30 charge covers up to 4 receivers in the home.

Personally I'd still rather pay $18 for a key and do it myself. But only certian people are getting offerred that option, it seems...

CharredPC, I completely agree. Also, I'd like to know where Hisense is in all this. They could put the files and instructions on their site, since it really is their box, and it's marketed in other areas of the world, with (I assume) Hisense firmware. Technically, USDTV and Hisense should both have the files and source code available for download on their site, as part of GPL compliance. These Hisense boxes have the potential to be like the Linux-based wireless routers with custom firmware, but locking them down to a tiny company like Cable Communications is crazy.


Are there any GPL groups that can add pressure to Hisense or whats left of USDTV?

Hi Guys,

I have a USDigital STB box for sale. I purchased this from Walmart about a year ago. It was updated with the firmware version 2.7.11 about six months ago. This STB gets the best OTA HD reception of anthting I have tried before or after. I just replaced it with a Dish Network DVR HD receiver with built in OTA. Best offer in next 2 weeks. Reply with private message.

Thanks,

dcb

The USDTV website has again had a small change (new text in bold):

The converted set-top box has an approximate value of $150 and meets all the requirements specified for the nationwide analog TV shutdown in Feb 2009, when it will be required to have a digital converter box for any TV without a digital tuner.

What, not enough local people are flocking to shell out $30 for a 'technician' to stop by for five minutes? I can just see the marketing meeting on this... by that, I mean the one guy* who runs the imaginary "Cable Communications" company scratching his head, searching eBay and wondering how to get people to desperately want his effortless service. :rolleyes:

Come on, what real company touts current after market value as incentive for paid firmware updating? The UDTV guys must be shrugging saying, "What the hell, we're finished anyway, right?"

*Edit: A little digging (don't shoot the messenger, this information is available for free on the web, just thought I'd share it here for those who don't know) brought up the following information:
The phone number listed on the USDTV website (801-553-9527) is a local Sandy, UT land-line number registered to Michael Knight's (real name!) wife, Kelly. This is a residential (home) address, not any sort of business. Neither Knight has any publicly known connection to USDTV, but it's obvious there is some tie for them to hand what is essentially the remainder of their operation over to an individual. I personally find it shady and a bit odd that instead of finding a reputable company (I'm sure they could have found one easily enough, charging $30 a visit and $18 per mailed key) USDTV chose to let an individual with a mock-up business front take over. Did they owe this guy money, or was he the janitor who won the company raffle?

I can't get any of my universal remotes to work with this unit anyone else here have any luck programming their remotes to work USDTV?

I found it on Ebay and will try and get one. I'm just wanting to run HD signal to my 480p plasma.

True it's not HD but 480p HD still looks much better than standard signals!

:eek: Have you seen the influx of DB-2010 units now posted on ebay within the last 24hrs? Looks like someone's trying to get their $150 share of the pie...
I'm thinking about doing it myself now, I have 3 DB-2010's (2 fta units and 1 subscription unit). I could be rich!!!! ;)

The biggest percentage of the units are the subscription only units as near as I can tell

The USDTV website has again had a small change (new text in bold):
What, not enough local people are flocking to shell out $30 for a 'technician' to stop by for five minutes? I can just see the marketing meeting on this... by that, I mean the one guy* who runs the imaginary "Cable Communications" company scratching his head, searching eBay and wondering how to get people to desperately want his effortless service. :rolleyes:


I agree completely. I bought the $200 USDTV receiver at Walmart a few years back when I then decided that I wanted to get ESPN for the NFL programming and the Disney channel for my daughter, so I signed up with the USDTV service here in Salt Lake City.

When I signed up, I was concerned that my perfectly fine OTA receiver would not work if and when I cancelled their service, and I was guaranteed that they would restore my receiver back to the original condition if I left. Now that USDTV has gone out of business, it looks like I'll either need to shell out the $30 bucks for somebody to simply insert a USB drive into my unit or try to create one myself from the instructions posted in the thread here. I sent an email to USDTV and they said they would forward my email to this Cable Communications "company." When I called them, the woman said she would only help if I shelled out the bucks. Sigh.

In some ways, I'm not to sorry to see the USDTV service go since the extra channels they provided were of really very poor quality due to broadcasting on limited bandwidth.

I thought this box was to pull in OTA local HD channels? That's what I'm wanting to do.

I'm currently bidding on one on ebay.

The does this doesn't it?

WARNING TO ALL POTENTIAL EBAY BUYERS OF THE USDTV DB-2010:

1. The USDTV website incorrectly states that the full FTA unit is "worth $150." This is an outright lie. Using eBay is a pretty fair gauge for current market value, and only ONE receiver in the past 30 days has achieved $150. That was on January 11th before the announcement was made to shut the service down. Both that auction and the $140 one more recently were never-used, new-in-the-box units. Every other DB-2010 sold for under $90, most for $30-$60. Don't let them fool you- a $30 visit by a tech is likely a majority of what you would get if you sold this unit!

2. The subscription version has been sold on eBay before and pawned off as the "full" version. Read this entire thread completely! If your eBay box shows up and it has a glaring yellow GUI, you got screwed over. The owner paid $20 (or less) for this box. If it isn't activated already (you turn it on and it tells you to call a number, or says it cannot find a USDTV signal), you're SOL unless you can A) convince USDTV's fake Cable Communications company to send you a USB key for $18 or B) live close enough that a 'tech' can charge you $30 for a visit. If it is activated, you'll be able to receive free digital OTA signals... unless the box ever gets hard reset. Then see previous options, realizing that there's likely a very short time span to do them.

3. Lots of the eBay auctions currently running do not have remotes included. This point null and void- thanks for the input, guys! See below for alternate remote options.

4. If you're still 100% set on buying a DB-2010 off eBay, do the following: If the seller claims it was new from Wal-Mart, ask how much it was. Anything under $75 likely means a subscription box (as House wisely says, "Everybody lies."). Ask what color the GUI is. This is no longer a definitive test, as the more recent firmware updates changes the awful yellow to blue; but if he says yellow, you definitely know what you're getting into. Don't trust any outer appearances to tell which version the box is! Remember, it's the exact same hardware inside and for awhile USDTV was decent enough to convert subscription boxes to full FTA for free when buyers were screwed over on eBay. This means if there ever was a system for differentiation, it's tainted.

Lastly, stay away from "mrrock-half." He's dumping lots of these units with no remote and a lousy story about buying each one at a yard sale. The seller "buyeverythingguy" is also flooding the eBay market with his new boxes; if anyone can message him and figure out what version he is selling (full or sub) I'm sure everyone would like to know. I'm getting some subscription units tomorrow for experimentation. I hope this thread continues to be useful to everyone as we try and resurrect this rather decent OTA HD box with our own tech support... one that doesn't lie and overcharge ;)

AFAIK, no one has ever been able to get any universal remote to work with the Hisense DB-2010.

The Logitech Harmony series remotes work with this unit. The DB-2010 is listed in their database. I've forgotten whether it's under "US Digital" or "Hisense". I used my Harmony 676 with this unit for a while. I think I had to tweak the default setup a bit by "learning" a couple of buttons from the original remote, but as I recall those buttons weren't needed for everyday operation.

I have a one for all remote #8910. There is a an upgrade from one for all for the US digital db-2010. You can call them and tell them you need the code for Satellite Device 1535. Works perfectly. They'll play it over the phone to your remote.

I sent him another email(tired of waiting for a response):

Hello
I understand that there is a usb flashdrive upgrade available for the
subscription to fta usdigital boxes. I saw it listed as $18 . Can you give
me information on how to aquire one of these flashdrives???

Thanks

His response:

Please call (801) 553-9527 to schedule a technician to come to your location
and convert your boxes. There is a one time fee of $30.00 which covers up to
4 receivers. Thanks

___
Wonder if the fee gets him airflight to tennessee...doubt it
It looks like those of us that are not in utah are out of luck.... :mad:

I just picked up four USDTV receivers for under $60 locally (guess it does pay to live in Utah sometimes!). Of the four, one is still subscribed to the dwindling service (guide channel is now also gone). All four have the 2.7.15 (2.4.18-15) software version and the db2020 hardware version. So I'm wondering... do I have four subscription models, or four full OTA versions? Or is there a difference with the latest firmware updates installed? Around here our firmware got installed automatically over-the-air from the USDTV signal...

I have 3 or the Hisense boxes from Walmart here in Ohio. Not being in a service area means the boxes were unlocked and I (as well as my parents and sister's family) use them for OTA HD reception.

I was curious if anyone had the latest FW upgrade that fixes little "glitches". I e-mailed USDTV over the last year at multiple addys, but never got any responses. I'm guessing now it will definitely not get a response.

Just to clarify, I don't need the update that unlocks the box (the $18 card or the service tech coming out to the house), I'm just looking for the general FW upgrade that maybe added some new skins, synched the guide to the right time, and got rid of some litte glitches.

Any advice or help would be great. Like I said, I have a box here in C-bus, and my parents and sister each have a box in Steubenville. If anyone in those areas can lend the upgrade disc, or even mail out (I promise I'll send it back) that would be great. If its a little more involved I'm up for that too...just would like to be updated.

Thanks!

Any advice or help would be great. Like I said, I have a box here in C-bus, and my parents and sister each have a box in Steubenville. If anyone in those areas can lend the upgrade disc, or even mail out (I promise I'll send it back) that would be great. If its a little more involved I'm up for that too...just would like to be updated.

Thanks!

Check out post #407 for starters

Just wondering, can this USDigital HD Tuner be used for regular cable? As in if I plug in basic cable from my wall outlet, can I get regular cable through the box, to my HD monitor without the HD?

'Cause the latest Samsung HD Tuner can let me do that, but not this Digital one. My firmware is I think 2.6. whatever.

The US Digital doesn't have a QAM tuner and your Samsung does. Your cable company is using QAM, not 8VSB which the US Digital supports, for it's cable transmission

I have had the service for about 1.5 yrs. About 3 months ago we had a power outage that caused a hard reset on the 2 USDTV boxes that I have. I had to call customer service to get past the boot screen. They pushed an update to both - 2.7.15 (2.4.18-15) with Hardware Version of db2020.

I've called and emailed with no luck. The Cable Communications number has taken my information with a promise to call back multiple times, that has never happened. From my reading, I doubt it will.

Right now I'm getting the OTA signals (no program information for USDTV 99 sub channels). I'm tempted to hard boot one of the machines and see it if will still get OTA. However, I don't want to render it useless until I can get my hands on a solution (USB stick or whatever).

If anyone has this firmware and is brave enough (or has enough devices to spare) hard boot it, please post the results. If I find out anything or hear back from Cable Comm, I'll pass it on.

Good luck to all.

I live in the Dallas market. Have had the service for about 1.5 yrs. About 3 months ago we had a power outage that caused a hard reset on the 2 USDTV boxes that I have. I had to call customer service to get past the boot screen. They pushed an update to both - 2.7.15 (2.4.18-15) with Hardware Version of db2020.

I now have four units with that software/hardware version and one with the original db2010 firmware, though the latest software. The db2010 used to have the Yellow GUI and is most definitely a subscription box. The exterior also looks slightly different than the db2020's.

I've called and emailed with no luck. The Cable Communications number has taken my information with a promise to call back multiple times, that has never happened. From my reading, I doubt it will.

I hope you have more luck than the rest of us. I'm thinking that with the shared information here and from some of the emails Knight received, he knows if he sends out a USB key we'll all have it. Hence no longer offering to do so.

Right now I'm getting the OTA signals (no program information for USDTV 99 sub channels). I'm tempted to hard boot one of the machines and see it if will still get OTA. However, I don't want to render it useless until I can get my hands on a solution (USB stick or whatever).

If anyone has this firmware and is brave enough (or has enough devices to spare) hard boot it, please post the results. If I find out anything or hear back from Cable Comm, I'll pass it on.

Don't kill your box by trying the reset. I have several here and will attempt a reset of one of the db2020's tomorrow, posting the results here. My suspicion is that the db2020 can take a reset and not need to be activated; we'll see if I'm right. I'm pretty sure if I hard reset the db2010 it will demand reactivation. thanks for helping us support our own receivers now that USD's kaput :cool:

Right now I'm getting the OTA signals (no program information for USDTV 99 sub channels). I'm tempted to hard boot one of the machines and see it if will still get OTA. However, I don't want to render it useless until I can get my hands on a solution (USB stick or whatever).

If anyone has this firmware and is brave enough (or has enough devices to spare) hard boot it, please post the results. If I find out anything or hear back from Cable Comm, I'll pass it on.


dogleg, I also live in the dallas area and was wondering the same thing last night. I was receiving local channels just fine and decided to try a hard reboot since I have dish network coming in a couple days and I didn't pay anything for the box.

Using the guide, aspect, exit, etc. method and it rebooted on about the 10th try. It rebooted and started to walk me through the channel search and I thought I would be good to go. Once it got through the channel search though, it said it couldn't find any USDTV channels and only gave me the option to retry or adjust antenna.

One thing I have not tried yet is a flash of the firmware becaue i don't currently have linux for my computer.

Has anyone had any luck reflashing the s-boxes for regular OTA reception? It would be one nice cheap ATSC tuner if someone had been able to accomplish this.

Let me clarify. When I signed up for the service, one of the local companies brought out 2 boxes for me. The firmware on those boxes was like 2.5 and the hardware version was db2010.

After USDTV pushed the update to my boxes, the firmware was 2.7.15 (2.4.18-15) with Hardware Version of db2020.

dummaniac83 - I was afraid that would be the case after rebooting. It makes sense given when I turn on the box it automatically goes to the USDTV 12 channel mini screen (but is not broadcasting).

There is not a way to change the default channel when the box is turned on (that I found). I also could not edit out the USDTV 12 channel mini screen (99.1) in the channel line up. I could remove the other sub channels (99.2-99.99) from the program guide.

BTW - I did ask the last time I talked with Cable Comm if they could just push a new signal out to fix the issue? They said "no, someone must come out with a key.". I asked if I could have the key? They said "no, we aren't doing it that way". Then I asked how many keys (technicians) were in the Dallas market? They said "Only one. But we will keep going until everyone is converted". I think I just chuckled under my breathe at that point.

dogleg, I also live in the dallas area and was wondering the same thing last night. I was receiving local channels just fine and decided to try a hard reboot since I have dish network coming in a couple days and I didn't pay anything for the box.

Using the guide, aspect, exit, etc. method and it rebooted on about the 10th try. It rebooted and started to walk me through the channel search and I thought I would be good to go. Once it got through the channel search though, it said it couldn't find any USDTV channels and only gave me the option to retry or adjust antenna.

I suppose it's too late to check now that you're locked out, but do you know if you had the db2010 or db2020 firmware? It's probably not something you would have thought to check, but I'm wondering if it makes a difference.

Then I asked how many keys (technicians) were in the Dallas market? They said "Only one. But we will keep going until everyone is converted".

Translation: We will keep riding this horse until we collect every last scrap of money to be had from our former customers... then we'll shoot it.

I suppose it's too late to check now that you're locked out, but do you know if you had the db2010 or db2020 firmware? It's probably not something you would have thought to check, but I'm wondering if it makes a difference.



Translation: We will keep riding this horse until we collect every last scrap of money to be had from our former customers... then we'll shoot it.


I have one walmart db-2010 that was upgraded the normal usb key way sent from usdtv the hardware version is db-2010.

I also have one fta that came from ebay last week (yes it actually was an fta unit believe it or not) I upgraded it using the upgrade files found on this forum it shows the hardware version as being db-2020.

Firmware versions on both 2.7.15(2.4.18-15)

Both units will hard reset with no problem

But I have noticed the ebay unit will stop receiving signals and completely lockup then you have to pull the plug for a reboot.

My old original wallyworld unit will run for months before any major lockups

I also have a hard reset subscription unit channel scan only no usdtv signal. (ebay lesson learned)

I don't remember if I looked at the hardwre firmware before I killed it......
I might have written it down some where will check

...waiting for a flashy miracle...

WARNING TO ALL POTENTIAL EBAY BUYERS OF THE USDTV DB-2010:

1. The USDTV website incorrectly states that the full FTA unit is "worth $150." This is an outright lie. Using eBay is a pretty fair gauge for current market value, and only ONE receiver in the past 30 days has achieved $150. That was on January 11th before the announcement was made to shut the service down. Both that auction and the $140 one more recently were never-used, new-in-the-box units. Every other DB-2010 sold for under $90, most for $30-$60. Don't let them fool you- a $30 visit by a tech is likely a majority of what you would get if you sold this unit!

2. The subscription version has been sold on eBay before and pawned off as the "full" version. Read this entire thread completely! If your eBay box shows up and it has a glaring yellow GUI, you got screwed over. The owner paid $20 (or less) for this box. If it isn't activated already (you turn it on and it tells you to call a number, or says it cannot find a USDTV signal), you're SOL unless you can A) convince USDTV's fake Cable Communications company to send you a USB key for $18 or B) live close enough that a 'tech' can charge you $30 for a visit. If it is activated, you'll be able to receive free digital OTA signals... unless the box ever gets hard reset. Then see previous options, realizing that there's likely a very short time span to do them.

3. Lots of the eBay auctions currently running do not have remotes included. This point null and void- thanks for the input, guys! See below for alternate remote options.

4. If you're still 100% set on buying a DB-2010 off eBay, do the following: If the seller claims it was new from Wal-Mart, ask how much it was. Anything under $75 likely means a subscription box (as House wisely says, "Everybody lies."). Ask what color the GUI is. This is no longer a definitive test, as the more recent firmware updates changes the awful yellow to blue; but if he says yellow, you definitely know what you're getting into. Don't trust any outer appearances to tell which version the box is! Remember, it's the exact same hardware inside and for awhile USDTV was decent enough to convert subscription boxes to full FTA for free when buyers were screwed over on eBay. This means if there ever was a system for differentiation, it's tainted.

Lastly, stay away from "mrrock-half." He's dumping lots of these units with no remote and a lousy story about buying each one at a yard sale. The seller "buyeverythingguy" is also flooding the eBay market with his new boxes; if anyone can message him and figure out what version he is selling (full or sub) I'm sure everyone would like to know. I'm getting some subscription units tomorrow for experimentation. I hope this thread continues to be useful to everyone as we try and resurrect this rather decent OTA HD box with our own tech support... one that doesn't lie and overcharge ;)

Greetings guys, i got a bunch of these from a lot auction, i value my ebay business andi am here to research all about what i am selling, i welcome your help and in fact i am asking for it. these boxes are all brand spanking new. i am thinkig about flashing them myself but that will take so long. any advise?

Greetings guys, i got a bunch of these from a lot auction, i value my ebay business andi am here to research all about what i am selling, i welcome your help and in fact i am asking for it. these boxes are all brand spanking new. i am thinkig about flashing them myself but that will take so long. any advise?


Are you able to test these units and take an accurate picture of what the channel scan results are? that's the screen right after the scan finishes before you accept the results

Are you able to test these units and take an accurate picture of the firmware version these units have?

I suppose it's too late to check now that you're locked out, but do you know if you had the db2010 or db2020 firmware? It's probably not something you would have thought to check, but I'm wondering if it makes a difference.

I have a DB-2010 box with the latest USDTV firmware 2.7.15(2.4.18-15). I did make a note to check before I did the hard reset.

I emailed USDTV customer support to try and call their bluff about the gmail guy being Utah local only. They said they have people in dallas as well and they forwarded my contact information to them. That was 2 days ago and I have yet to hear anything. Maybe around 2008 they'll contact me and I'll finally have a cheap ATSC tuner to use.

Are you able to test these units and take an accurate picture of what the channel scan results are? that's the screen right after the scan finishes before you accept the results

Are you able to test these units and take an accurate picture of the firmware version these units have?

sure, in order to give all interested parties full info on them, what exactly am i looking for, please advise asap

sure, in order to give all interested parties full info on them, what exactly am i looking for, please advise asap
I see on Ebay that the manuals in your pictures look like they are for the subscription boxes. If you can't get past the channel setup you can't get to where the firmware listing is.

if the manual is the same one I have, the channel scan is on page 15 then if you get the screen on page 16 that's pretty well it. It will go no futher because usdtv no longer exist. You may be able to get them upgraded from subscription boxes to fta by searching this thread your reading, search for usdtv key then read all the other posts about it....

If for some reason you do make it past the above on page 25 is where the setup menu is shown...go to system information and you will see the firmware and hardware version

good luck

I see on Ebay that the manuals in your pictures look like they are for the subscription boxes. If you can't get past the channel setup you can't get to where the firmware listing is.

if the manual is the same one I have, the channel scan is on page 15 then if you get the screen on page 16 that's pretty well it. It will go no futher because usdtv no longer exist. You may be able to get them upgraded from subscription boxes to fta by searching this thread your reading, search for usdtv key then read all the other posts about it....

If for some reason you do make it past the above on page 25 is where the setup menu is shown...go to system information and you will see the firmware and hardware version

good luck


THANKS, WELL, I HAVE THE FIRMWARE AND LINUX SO TO AVOID ALL HEADACHES, BEST FOR ME TO JUST OPEN THEM UP AND FLASH EACH ONE I HAVE. THAT WAY I DO THE WORK FOR MY POTENTIAL CUSTOMER...THAT WOULD BE EASIER RIGHT?

THANKS, WELL, I HAVE THE FIRMWARE AND LINUX SO TO AVOID ALL HEADACHES, BEST FOR ME TO JUST OPEN THEM UP AND FLASH EACH ONE I HAVE. THAT WAY I DO THE WORK FOR MY POTENTIAL CUSTOMER...THAT WOULD BE EASIER RIGHT?

The problem is that no one in this thread has been able to successfully flash the usdtv boxes into regular fta boxes. if you have success with this, please let everyone know how you do it.

The problem is that no one in this thread has been able to successfully flash the usdtv boxes into regular fta boxes. if you have success with this, please let everyone know how you do it.

NO ONE?!?! that might sink my battleship, what about calling the company or getting that usb dongle from a 3rd party?.. i am trying to figure out the best solution..tons of these boxes, tons of cash invested. my main concern is my buyers, i do not want them to buy a product they can't use. any advise would be great..also looking forward to putting one of these in every room of my house, bathroom included :)

NO ONE?!?! that might sink my battleship, what about calling the company or getting that usb dongle from a 3rd party?.. i am trying to figure out the best solution..tons of these boxes, tons of cash invested. my main concern is my buyers, i do not want them to buy a product they can't use. any advise would be great..also looking forward to putting one of these in every room of my house, bathroom included :)

Read through this thread. It shows how USDTV doesn't care (anymore) and the "company" now in charge of the firmware updates isn't responsive or helpful. Nobody yet has the actual firmware update to convert Subscription units to Full OTA. If you bought db2010 sub units that require activation, currently you're SOL. There isn't a way to activate them, and our friends at Cable Communications charge $30 for a local appointment... for four receivers. If I were you I'd sit on that product until someone, somewhere manages to incapacitate the local "tech" when they stop by their house on a $30 visit and steal their USB firmware key :rolleyes:

Read through this thread. It shows how USDTV doesn't care (anymore) and the "company" now in charge of the firmware updates isn't responsive or helpful. Nobody yet has the actual firmware update to convert Subscription units to Full OTA. If you bought db2010 sub units that require activation, currently you're SOL. There isn't a way to activate them, and our friends at Cable Communications charge $30 for a local appointment... for four receivers. If I were you I'd sit on that product until someone, somewhere manages to incapacitate the local "tech" when they stop by their house on a $30 visit and steal their USB firmware key :rolleyes:

to protect my feedback, i will pull all the auctions i have up, save for one, that one i rewrote with the info i found out here. still has people bidding, i will make a PUBLIC OFFER TO ANYONE WHO CAN PROVIDE ME THE Key, 6 BRAND NEW BOXES ARE YOURS ONCE YOUR KEY IS PROVEN TO WORK WITH MY NEW 2010 SUBSCRIPTION BOXES. thanks for the info, i will sit on these for as long as it takes

Let's say someone got their hands on a key for 1 hr. What are the detailed steps needed to make a copy and/or pull the files off the key?

Also say the person who has the key for 1 hr has a machine with XP on it. This person also has a bootable Feather Linux CD. However, when linux boots it can't write to the hard drive and it doesn't recognize the USB drive.

This has not happened (so no one get your hopes up). However, if anyone can help out with some detailed instructions, please post.

Well...I suppose you could use linux to mount the key and copy the files to your HDD. Then using the method posted by KewlK on page 15, #432 you then copy the files off to annother bootable usb stick thereby creating annother "key" I assume that could be done but I'm sort of a linux noob and only tried the upgrade method once or twice. But you said if that meathod did not work I figured out a potential way to "dump" the program directory in the usd box to a usb stick. The start file in the firmware upgrade contains a seres of commands kinda like a batch file or a visual basic program. Right after the 11th line or so, just insert a command that will dump the whole usd box program to a usb stick. Then with a little reverse programming you could make a whole new program with extras!

I will work on this this afternoon and see if this works! :cool:

I just picked up one of these at a Dirt Cheap (sort of a salvage store. a lot of store returns wind up there) for 10 bucks, which turned out to be locked. My father also got one at this store a while back and got an unlocked one. I'm definitely not sore about it since it was only 10 bucks, and it's a neat little embedded linux device that I'll tinker with if I can't get it to do anything else. I would like to get it unlocked if I can, however.

Mine is:
USDTV System Software version: 2.7.15 (2.4.18-15)
Hardware Version: db2020

The firmware update provided earlier in this thread did not work, even with setting the permissions on the script to be executable. Judging from the way the activity light on the drives I've tried flash, it appears to detect the drive and mount it, but I suppose it doesn't like what it sees on it. This is where it would be helpful to see what it's saying on the serial console. Has anyone tried this?

Someone asked what the best thing is for someone to do once they get ahold of the key. In my opinion, the best course of action would be to take a bit-by-bit copy of the drive, rather than simply copying the files. From that disk-image, the rest of us can take a look at how to get it onto another drive. If you're handy with Linux, this is how it'd go after sticking the drive in (assuming it takes on /dev/sda , do an fdisk -l before and after to make sure):

dd if=/dev/sda of=upgradekey.img

Be sure to do this in a directory you can write to :) . If you manage to do this, post it to rapidshare or something, or let me know privately, or whatever you want to do.

The resulting image should be able to be written back to a drive of the same size, and possibly larger. Regardless, by taking a look at that image it'd be possible to determine exactly what is needed as far as the filesystem, arrangement of files, permissions, etc.

Hope this helps!

Wesley

In order to make the USB stick bootable in order to put the new .bin files on it, when you run

cfdisk /dev/sda

what should the File System Type be? 6-FAT16 or 82-Linux swap or 83-Linux or other?

It should be the ext2 file system. BTW no luck with the dump, still trying.
I am using a usd subscription box 2.7.15 (2.4.18-15) the damn thing must be mounting the stick in read only mode.

At least VOOM left our boxes on and did not try to charge for a service call to do so. BTW my VOOM box still smokes anything out there for OTA reception.

It should be the ext2 file system. BTW no luck with the dump, still trying.
I am using a usd subscription box 2.7.15 (2.4.18-15) the damn thing must be mounting the stick in read only mode.

I meant to mention this to you yesterday when I read your post but I got sidetracked by writing up my above post on what to do if someone gets hold of the update key being mailed around.

I don't believe you're going to be able to modify the script that's in that diagnostics directory, since there's the other directory that holds signatures for those files. The device most likely checks the files against those signatures to make sure they haven't been modified. I'm not sure what algorithm is being used (whether it's a simple checksum or something secure).

To test, I made a modification to the script that should have sent it into an endless loop of "sleep 1" over and over again, the idea being that I could tell if it was being executed at all by the receiver locking up in the loop on boot. It booted up as if everything was normal, so it didn't execute the script. Since my receiver wasn't taking the update anyway, I can't be 100% certain that it checks the signatures, but I believe it probably does.

Here is the latest that I have been able to put together. This is based on my research. Don't take it as gospel.

When USDTV went under, they owed a lot of people money. Some of those were small business owners who had invested in antenna's and Hisense boxes for their personal inventory. In order to help these mom and pop shops out (since USDTV could not buy back the inventory they sold them), USDTV made USB sticks with the upgrade. They sent the upgrades to these individuals and passed along phone numbers of those who have called. To me, this implies that if you are not in one of the 4 markets USDTV was in, you are probably SOL (but that is my opinion).

This gives the small business owners an opportunity to recoup some of the cash they have lost (charging $30 a household to upgrade). These mom and pop places also can then upgrade their inventory and sell them as HD tuners (on ebay or whatever).

I have seen an upgraded subscription box. The firmware before the upgrade was 2.7.15. The firmware after the upgrade is the same as before 2.7.15. So, I don't think there is an easy way (by version or color) to tell what you have. However, on the upgraded box there is no longer a serial number displayed. Previously, there was a serial number like 0000-xxxx-xxxx. This is no longer displayed under System Infomation once an upgrade has occured.

The upgraded box remembers the last channel you were on when you power on the box next time (instead of defaulting to the USDTV 99-1 sub channel). If you unplug the upgraded box, then plug it back in it says:

"Wait...." (or something)
Asks you to scan.
Finds all the local channels.
Asks you to set the timezone.
Then tunes into the lowest channel.

The menu is almost the same as the subscription box, just no channels 99-1 to 99-99. There is also an additional sub-menu to set the channel you would like to pull the local time from (usually a PBS station).

More as I can piece it together. If you have anything to add, please do so.

Here is the latest that I have been able to put together. This is based on my research. Don't take it as gospel.

When USDTV went under, they owed a lot of people money. Some of those were small business owners who had invested in antenna's and Hisense boxes for their personal inventory. In order to help these mom and pop shops out (since USDTV could not buy back the inventory they sold them), USDTV made USB sticks with the upgrade. They sent the upgrades to these individuals and passed along phone numbers of those who have called. To me, this implies that if you are not in one of the 4 markets USDTV was in, you are probably SOL (but that is my opinion).

This gives the small business owners an opportunity to recoup some of the cash they have lost (charging $30 a household to upgrade). These mom and pop places also can then upgrade their inventory and sell them as HD tuners (on ebay or whatever).

I have seen an upgraded subscription box. The firmware before the upgrade was 2.7.15. The firmware after the upgrade is the same as before 2.7.15. So, I don't think there is an easy way (by version or color) to tell what you have. However, on the upgraded box there is no longer a serial number displayed. Previously, there was a serial number like 0000-xxxx-xxxx. This is no longer displayed under System Infomation once an upgrade has occured.

The upgraded box remembers the last channel you were on when you power on the box next time (instead of defaulting to the USDTV 99-1 sub channel). If you unplug the upgraded box, then plug it back in it says:

"Wait...." (or something)
Asks you to scan.
Finds all the local channels.
Asks you to set the timezone.
Then tunes into the lowest channel.

The menu is almost the same as the subscription box, just no channels 99-1 to 99-99. There is also an additional sub-menu to set the channel you would like to pull the local time from (usually a PBS station).

More as I can piece it together. If you have anything to add, please do so.


makes sense, i got a bunch of new, sealed ones from an auction of one of the mom and pop operations, they are sitting in my warehouse. after reading what happened i stopped all save 1, of my ebay auctions. i am selling 1 at a time on ebay explaining that bidders have to find firmwares. in hopes of just breaking even and moving my stock. i put the offer out here to trade 6 boxes for a usb stick but so far, no takers..

:( Check out the ebay sale 270101295203. It is a great way to represent a db-2010 but look at the "Scanning for channels is painless and quick" set of photos, in the righthand photo our unwanted friends the 99-x group is present. I would think a hard reset would render the unit useless :rolleyes: You have to give the seller credit it's the best representation of one of these units or any unit I have ever seen Hopefully other sellers will use the same methods...

:( Check out the ebay sale 270101295203. It is a great way to represent a db-2010 but look at the "Scanning for channels is painless and quick" set of photos, in the righthand photo our unwanted friends the 99-x group is present. I would think a hard reset would render the unit useless :rolleyes: You have to give the seller credit it's the best representation of one of these units or any unit I have ever seen Hopefully other sellers will use the same methods...


In my opinion, the dead give away on that item on ebay is the serial number on the System Info screen. The unit I saw had a serial number of 0000-xxxx-xxxx before the upgrade (when it was still subscription). After the upgrade, the serial number was no longer listed on the System Info screen.

However, who knows if there is multiple USB keys out there with different software on them. We just don't have enough information at this point. I am working on a lead. I will update if I find out anything.

What's the difference between my software version - 2.7.11 (2.14.18-15) and the version that everyone else here is using - 2.7.15 (2.14.18-15)?

Hi all, I'm a newbie here, my first post, and so excited I found this site. I thought I was the only one with the ongoing problem of be locked. I bought my first DB2010 from Wal-mart, clearance isle, and it works great for my local OTA channels, so I decided pickup a second one from Ebay, Big Mistake!! The second one first gave me the remote options to go to the Menu and then get setup, but when doing the scan would not lock in on the channels it found, 10. I then made the Big mistake of getting on USDTV website and trying to do a Factory Reset per their page. This only made matter worse as now I cannot get to menu any longer, just does the intial scan and then states that I am not in USDTV area. Before I made my Big mistake, I did get into menu and then settings and system information, which showed my unit to be version 2.7.15 (2.4.18-15) and also retrieved my ID Number. Now I can no longer get any of this information since I lost the ability to get to Menu due to USDTV getting me to do a Factory Reset. Wondering if all could do a class action lawsuit due to them posting this and messing up receivers more, but then again if they are defunk it would be like getting blood out of a turnip. My food for thought might be that if the remote control was so powerful to totally lock out my receiver with just a few clicks, Guide, Aspect, Exit, Program Info, 0, then why couldn't someone find a sequence that would bring it back or totally reset the receiver to true Factory Settings instead of USDTV factory settings. Not holding my breath though, and want to be in line for a key when someone gets ahold of one. Another question is that if my unit has the most recent version number (I think) what more could an upgrade do to make mine true Factory Reset. Willing to do anything but pay another 30 dollars for something that my box said was OTA veiwing with just an antenna, that Wasn't!!! Really flustrating to think USDTV could have got away with this, kinda glad they're done for, serves them right, hope they lost a bundle like all of us have!!

Really flustrating to think USDTV could have got away with this, kinda glad they're done for, serves them right, hope they lost a bundle like all of us have!!

I'm on both sides of the fence about this. Granted, USDTV is to blame for a lot, but they weren't directly responsible for the ebay scam that was going on where the $20 version was being sold as the $200 one. From what I understand they (for awhile) were even decent enough to mail USB upgrades to those victims who ended up owning a sub box in a non-USD area. The $20 boxes were priced low because the required subscription service would help cover the cost. Unfortunately 99% of the USA wasn't aware of that version (a lot still aren't), and so bought any online DB2010 thinking they were getting a fully working OTA receiver. But all that is covered elsewhere in this thread...

What I do blame USDTV for is the horrible way they have handled things at the end (now). Mostly, who's getting shafted here? Loyal customers who stuck with them through their "reorganization" and intermittent closures. Average buyers who unwittingly purchase subbed boxes on the now-flooded market. Everyone who has already dumped a bunch of money on these things now gets to dump even more so that they continue to be useful. They could have posted the firmware; they could offer to mail out keys; they could have simply had users not "geek" enough to create the keys pay for the thumb drive and postage. They had a lot of other customer-orientated options and instead choose to try and cover their own debts by screwing over the end user. Voom never would have thought of this sort of thing- I think there's a lot of similarities between that situation and this one. Previously subscribed receivers are useful and actually quite nice, while ones that aren't activated are useless. The difference is in the greedy money-sucking tactics being used here.

I'm pretty sure we're not going to see the USB drive image posted here anytime soon, unfortunately. With some of the emails the users here have sent Cable Communications that mention or direct them to these forums, they now have a big heads-up of how many tech-savvy people want this key. Their current thinking is if they mail them out for $18 as USDTV originally planned, their precious $30 visits will (theoretically) dry up. While I think this is flawed thinking, greedy corporations (or people who drive KITT and pretend to be a business) won't take the chance, no matter how small.

Let's not get into bashing USDTV too much here. They took a shot and it didn't pan out. I appreciate them trying. We don't have enough information to tell if they can't release the firmware over the internet for legal reasons or not. Or if they are just being money grubbers. From my experience with them, they were a standup company. We just don't have all the info, and probably never will.

The law gets really fuzzy around software licenses and liability. USDTV has admitted they used GPL and LGPL licensed software. But, that doesn't necessarily mean they have to open source their own code.

What happens if one of us does get our hands on a key? What are the legal issues with one of us posting it somewhere? What if they put checks in there to thwart copying it? What if you create a key that isn't exactly they same, will it toast the box?

I think it is too soon to know. It will appear sometime. Just think about the percentages. It is going to take a bit head to get their hands on it. Most of the "techs" will put it in a windows box to copy it and windows won't be able to read the partition if it is a linux one. It's just going to take some time for the percentages to work themselves out and the right person to get the key. It will come.

Let's no get to bashing USDTV too much here. They took a shot and it didn't pan out. I appreciate them trying. We don't have enough information to tell if they can't release the firmware over the internet for legal reasons or not. Or if they are just being money grubbers. From my experience with them, they were a standup company. We just don't have all the info, and probably never will.

I think you misunderstand me. I used to subscribe to the USDTV service and recommend it to friends and family. I'm not knocking what they tried to do, or the technology behind it. I'm actually disappointed that it failed. What I'm knocking is their cut-and-run act while leaving their former customers holding the bag. What I'm knocking is relieving debt to other companies by allowing them to control the clean-up job. They were a standup company... right up until they weren't.

The law gets really fuzzy around software licenses and liability. USDTV has admitted they used GPL and LGPL licensed software. But, that doesn't necessarily mean they have to open source their own code.

No one's asking for open source code. I think most people could care less about hacking or tweaking these units, they just want them to continue to work as they have been while they paid monthly for service. I find it very hard to believe that the copyright/license lawyers sat down and transferred sole ownership/distribution rights of the firmware to Joe, Bill, and Michael Knight. USDTV wasn't so terrified of "legal issues" when they freely sent out these same upgrade keys to non-subscribers just to quiet general complaints.

What happens if one of us does get our hands on a key? What are the legal issues with one of us posting it somewhere? What if they put checks in there to thwart copying it? What if you create a key that isn't exactly they same, will it toast the box? I think it is too soon to know. It will appear sometime. Just think about the percentages. It is going to take a bit head to get their hands on it. Most of the "techs" will put it in a windows box to copy it and windows won't be able to read the partition if it is a linux one. It's just going to take some time for the percentages to work themselves out and the right person to get the key. It will come.

First off, who is suing us; Hisense, who won't do a danged thing about this issue if you beat them with a stick? USDTV, who closed their doors and is shuffling everyone off onto secondary "companies" for further help and support? Or are those $30-per-visit 'Golly I own myself a USB key, I'm a real tech!' guys going to file something against you? Yes, I'm being flippant, but it's also the truth. As far as difficulty in copying, I'm not convinced. The best encryptions and copyright methods are broken by bored teenagers all the time, and I really doubt anyone spent millions on making a little Linux USB upgrade key hack-proof. I'm sure it's digitally signed and does a checksum, but there's plenty of disk mirroring applications (yes, even for Windows) that will transfer entire partitions byte by byte with perfect accuracy.

Lastly, I didn't say it would never be posted. Eventually everything is set free on the web, given time and demand. What I said was I don't believe it wouldn't happen anytime soon. The keys are currently being guarded like they're the One Ring. Eventually a Hobbit will come along and fetch it for us, but until then, my precious... :D