I think this is post #3000...woopee. Anyway, I paid for this H20-600 and now I have not had a problem since last Friday night. So I wonder if it's a Directv thing or the box. I know motherboards on computers run about 105-110 deg f....I'm assuming this is running about the same.

How are the H20-600 refurbs running cooler? Did they add a fan? More slots or are the using the -100 internals? Also, If I got a replacement would they want my h20-600 that I bought? Is PQ just as good?

Why are there so many problems with these boxes all of the sudden...The ts-360 did the same (freeze ups,etc), the H10 and now the h20....It seems the boxes of old (DTC-100, Toshiba's,etc) would not experience the lock up, freeze up problems on this scale of magnitude that we are experiencing now.Mike,

# 3001.

Maybe your trouble was temporary? That'd be great... :)

Don't know how/why refurbed -600s run cooler... But that seems to be the forum scuttlebutt. The cooler running the better --- is my firm belief. Pretty sure they didn't add any fans?

I too bought a H20-600 back before March 1st (own it). When they replaced it a coupla weeks later, I just shipped the defective unit back via pre-paid FedEx. Thought it was great I didn't have to pay to return it! The whole business about owning vs. leasing has been discussed to death already. I don't care if my receiver is owned or leased. I'm just thrilled that it now works.

"All of a sudden?" Well, I guess that it was sudden, since it "seems" that people had trouble with the -600s pretty much out of the gate? Maybe not though. People who've had problems write about it whereas people who don't have problems usually don't write to report that their units are working well. Maybe most -600s didn't overheat at all? Would explain why the refurbed units don't get so hot now? Maybe it was a simple fix for D*???

My H20-100 hasn't had any problems that I know of for the last couple of months? Picture quality is just as good as the -600 WHEN my -600 wasn't crapping out... :) Some have reported their -100s don't have quite the same level of OTA reception, but I think those people are crazy. :eek: Possibly I might be wrong? Especially when you consider that I don't even use OTA. :D

As previously noted in some postings here, just so long as the receiver works, who cares whether it's a -600 or a -100 --- or how hot or cool it runs. Especially if it's covered by a D* unlimited warranty (leased units).

I figure I'll be trading my H20 in for the H20 with DVR --- if and as soon as it is available. Can't wait... :p

I have had a -600 for about a month or so now. It runs warm, you can feel it, but it doesn't run any warmer than your average computer, were you able to get your hand that close to the actual motherboard to tell. I've not had a any problems with it, and I am well pleased with the OTA tuner - it does great with fringe stations.

Some have reported their -100s don't have quite the same level of OTA reception, but I think those people are crazy....
[If you don't receive any TV OTA with antenna, why even make a comment like the above?]

mikelets456,
The -100 (RCA mfg) has a different OTA tuner and board than the -600 (LG). More than one person in this thread has reported losing weak OTA channels when they swapped their -600 for a -100. When poster nippertest (works for RCA) was asked about this, he said "no comment".

If all your OTA channels are full power and not at fringe distances, the slightly weaker OTA sensitivity of the -100 shouldn't be an issue. Both receivers seem to deal with multipath very well.

[If you don't receive any TV OTA with antenna, why even make a comment like the above?]

mikelets456,
The -100 (RCA mfg) has a different OTA tuner and board than the -600 (LG). More than one person in this thread has reported losing weak OTA channels when they swapped their -600 for a -100. When poster nippertest (works for RCA) was asked about this, he said "no comment".

If all your OTA channels are full power and not at fringe distances, the slightly weaker OTA sensitivity of the -100 shouldn't be an issue. Both receivers seem to deal with multipath very well.That isn't a serious question is it, arxaw?

I'm sure (?) you realize that it was a sly attempt at humor by me, even if it wasn't very humorous. :o

Talk about being quoted out of context... Did you have a bad day today? :)

That last wisecrack was intended as humor... Kinda ruins it if you have to write a "just joking" disclaimer everytime...

I just bought a Directtv h20 hdtv receiver from Ebay and am having a problem. When I set up the receiver for the first time, it went directly to the setup guide menu. I bought the receiver to receiver Over the air HDTV channels, and I already have the Accurian HTS 6000 HDTV receiver, but needed another box for additional TV sets. Well when I got to the setup guide the receiver 's menu said to type in my local zip code - 02861 - and after a minute or so of searching an error message said invalid zip code. I tried several other zip codes and got the same error message. And I cannot proceed in setup at all - the menu key cannot bypass the Quick setup mode to manually enter channels. I read through the users manual with no assistance in this problem. I do not have a Directtv satellite but it should work for over the air channels with an antenna. Does anyone have any solutions on how to proceed and make the receiver work? Any help is appreciated.

I just bought a Directtv h20 hdtv receiver from Ebay and am having a problem. When I set up the receiver for the first time, it went directly to the setup guide menu. I bought the receiver to receiver Over the air HDTV channels, and I already have the Accurian HTS 6000 HDTV receiver, but needed another box for additional TV sets. Well when I got to the setup guide the receiver 's menu said to type in my local zip code - 02861 - and after a minute or so of searching an error message said invalid zip code. I tried several other zip codes and got the same error message. And I cannot proceed in setup at all - the menu key cannot bypass the Quick setup mode to manually enter channels. I read through the users manual with no assistance in this problem. I do not have a Directtv satellite but it should work for over the air channels with an antenna. Does anyone have any solutions on how to proceed and make the receiver work? Any help is appreciated.Bad news alg2468,

As far as I know, the H20 receiver that you just bought will not receive OTA signals unless you subscribe to DirecTV.

Option #1: Subscribe to DirecTV.

Option #2: Sell the receiver to somebody else on eBay.

Option #3: (sorry I can't think of any other viable options)

I remember seeing numerous warnings that the OTA tuner would not work without a subscription... Obviously you didn't see the warnings... :(

Can someone tell me why it would be preferable to buy a H20 receiver (at BestBuy or off eBay for example) instead of getting it directly from D*? Less expensive for new subscribers, maybe?

There are numerous listings on eBay claiming if you buy a "NEW" H20 receiver from them, that you will "own" the receiver and it will not be considered to be a leased unit. From what I understand, that's simply incorrect information? At least I "thought" that I understood the D* CSR I spoke to last February to have told me that any receiver activated on or after March 1, 2006 would[/i] "absolutely-positively" be considered to be a leased unit by D*.

Oh, maybe you'll "own" the receiver if you don't activate it? Which would effectively mean you own a doorstop?

Am I missing something here? :confused:

I can't help you figure it out TechoFobe. I'm a new sub (I mean real new - like < 1 week) and I got my Sat and H20 receiver gratis. Unless the person is planning on having a 2nd receiver I see no point. Maybe they figure that the new receiver they bought will last them long enough to make it a better deal than "leasing" one at $4.99 a month. In this case it almost sounds like the guy wanted a cheap tuner for his OTA antenna. I thought the ole' Voom receivers were the ones to get for that.


Snewo

I just bought a Directtv h20 hdtv receiver from Ebay and am having a problem. When I set up the receiver for the first time, it went directly to the setup guide menu. I bought the receiver to receiver Over the air HDTV channels, and I already have the Accurian HTS 6000 HDTV receiver, but needed another box for additional TV sets. Well when I got to the setup guide the receiver 's menu said to type in my local zip code - 02861 - and after a minute or so of searching an error message said invalid zip code. I tried several other zip codes and got the same error message. And I cannot proceed in setup at all - the menu key cannot bypass the Quick setup mode to manually enter channels. I read through the users manual with no assistance in this problem. I do not have a Directtv satellite but it should work for over the air channels with an antenna. Does anyone have any solutions on how to proceed and make the receiver work? Any help is appreciated.H-20 will not work without D*.

I just bought a Directtv h20 hdtv receiver from Ebay and am having a problem. When I set up the receiver for the first time, it went directly to the setup guide menu. I bought the receiver to receiver Over the air HDTV channels, ...

I do not have a Directtv satellite but it should work for over the air channels with an antenna. ...

Beginning with the H20 receiver, all new D* receivers require a sub to D* in order to use the OTA tuner. They did this to coincide with the start of their leasing business model, where all leased receivers must be returned to D* if service is cancelled. It makes the box more or less worthless w/o a D* subscription.

Even if you find an older D* receiver on ebay that may work for OTA-only, you buy one AYOR, since many of them are defective. Also, some of them require an access card to access the setup menu for OTA-only.

Can someone tell me why it would be preferable to buy..... Which would effectively mean you own a doorstop?

Am I missing something here? :confused:

Yes, you are missing something here....you would effectively be buying a heater....so in the summer, the H20 will be useless!(which still makes no sense and does not answer your question).

You got a point though, if you buy a H20, you have to sign a contract anyway and it's not covered by warranty. If you lease you have to sign the SAME contract and you can swap recievers as many times as it breaks and you pay the same amount.

The only thing I can think of (and this is speculation) that if you OWN your receiver, then maybe....just maybe the FCC will mandate that D*tv can not charge a mirroring fee for additional recievers at some time in the near future?

Remember when the cable companies charged for each TV hooked up to a cable line?(whether you had a cable ready tv or not) Then the Gov't stepped in and said "no more charging fees for extra tv's hooked up to cable, unless they rent/lease a box".

Maybe this will happen soon with sattelitte? Just speculation....so maybe hold on to your spare H20. You never know.... ;)

The only thing I can think of (and this is speculation) that if you OWN your receiver, then maybe....just maybe the FCC will mandate that D*tv can not charge a mirroring fee for additional recievers at some time in the near future?

Obviously I could be totally wrong, but I think that anyone who acquires and activates a H20 receiver after February 28, 2006 is "officially" leasing it and the monthly fee on additional receivers (if any) is a lease fee not a mirroring fee. I can't imagine in my wildest musings that the FCC would get involved... It's not the same as getting basic cable. You DO have a receiver (STB) as compared to feeding a cable into a cable-raedy TV. Apples & oranges?

Insisting upon Buying INSTEAD OF Leasing a H20 receiver makes ABSOLUTELY no sense to me at all! How can anyone now "own" a "newly" acquired H20? Especially since failing to subscribe to a Total Choice package "may" result in D* charging you a $150 penalty fee... And, if you do subscribe but cancel before 24-months, there's a $300 prorated fee. Hmmm, I wonder if either ever actually happens? Not that I want to personally find out! :eek:

When you actually read D*'s fine print (terms) on their website you discover:
HARDWARE LEASE: Purchase of 12 consecutive months (24 consecutive months for advanced receivers) of any TOTAL CHOICE package ($34.99/mo. or above), DIRECTV PARA TODOS programming ($29.99/mo. or above) or qualifying international services bundle required. DVR service commitment ($5.99/mo.) required for DVR and HD DVR lease. In certain markets, programming/pricing may vary. FAILURE TO ACTIVATE THE DIRECTV SYSTEM WITHIN 30 DAYS MAY RESULT IN A CHARGE OF $150 PER RECEIVER NOT ACTIVATED. IF YOU FAIL TO MAINTAIN YOUR PROGRAMMING COMMITMENT, DIRECTV MAY CHARGE A PRORATED FEE OF UP TO $300. RECEIVERS ARE AT ALL TIMES PROPERTY OF DIRECTV AND MUST BE RETURNED UPON CANCELLATION OF SERVICE, OR ADDITIONAL FEES APPLY.If disputed, a judge (Supreme Court?) would have to interpret exactly what all of that legal jibber jabber means. :D

Plainly though, D* calls it leasing. But call it "owning" or "leasing" --- either way the same fine print applies... :p

It looks to me as though D* is basically supplying (or subsidizing) H20 receivers at no charge (after rebates) so long as its customers subscribe for 24-months of Total Choice. Granted you CAN instead buy a H20 and not get the $99 rebate plus pay an additional $150 penalty to D* --- and the doorstop, I mean useless receiver is ALL YOURS to have and to hold! :D

I just realized something... As a faithful and true D* subscriber who fully intends to continue subscribing ad infinitum, I don't really care whether I am leasing or am an owner. But it is sad to see people buying the H20 with the false hope that it can be used for OTA with no monthly charge. A hundred bucks (or less?) for a really good OTA receiver WOULD be a really good deal. Too good maybe? Too good to be true? :rolleyes:

Another question: Does a deceased person's estate have to pay the prorated fee if a subscriber dies before the committment is fulfilled? :confused: :eek: :D

You brought up something that has me thinking. For example, you lease a H20, in 16 months it dies, do they simply replace with or without extending your contract another 2 years?
Also, 6 months from now your H20 is working great, then they come out with this awesome new HD reciever (HD-PVR or something)...can you send the H20 back and get the new reciever with out signing another 2 years? Probably not. The nice thing (hopefully) is no out of pocket $$$ when the next latest and greatest gadget comes along....but signing on for another 2-years. I wonder how many recievers you can lease or change in that 2-year period or upgrade and extend your contract?

Your point is valid, if you can not use the reciever for OTA w/out a Directv subscription, then there is NO reason to buy a reciever...None whatsoever. because the only way to use it is to pay D*tv's subscription.....either get a T-351 or have a TV with a HD tuner built in.

Right now I "own" both H20's but only pay $4.99(mirroring) to view the second reciever...the first is no charge. When you lease, do you pay a lease for the first reciever as well? (talking about new contracts/customers).

I too plan on staying with Directv....I simply hate long term contracts, though.

something i noticed in the audio options when i bring up the menu screen. i have English 1 DD and English 2. English 2 sounds like the someone cranked up the volume when i select it, but i can't discern any difference. If english 1 DD is just DD, why can i turn off DD in the menu and select PCM? can someone clear up the difference?

anyone?

Your point is valid, if you can not use the reciever for OTA w/out a Directv subscription, then there is NO reason to buy a reciever...None whatsoever. because the only way to use it is to pay D*tv's subscription.....either get a T-351 or have a TV with a HD tuner built in.


Or any number of cheap OTA only receivers. The old Vooms are sub $50 on ebay.

The $5 mirroring charge is pure cr@p though....I'm stuck paying that for a 5+ yr. old SD receiver I keep in a guest room.
If they start charging lease fees for the primary, non-DVR receiver, I'm out. If they can't recoup the hardware cost on a 2 year total choice contract it's not my problem.

You brought up something that has me thinking. For example, you lease a H20, in 16 months it dies, do they simply replace with or without extending your contract another 2 years?I'd be willing to wager that ANY time you do ANYTHING --- D* will want to sign you up for another 24? :) Dirty capitalist pigs! Hey wait a sec!!! That describes me too... I want to make profits for my eeforts too... :D

Right now I "own" both H20's but only pay $4.99(mirroring) to view the second reciever...the first is no charge. When you lease, do you pay a lease for the first reciever as well? (talking about new contracts/customers).D* customers DO NOT pay a monthly lease fee if they have only one (1) receiver... They only pay the $4.99 monthly lease fee for each additional receiver after the first one.

I too plan on staying with Directv....I simply hate long term contracts, though.Me too! :mad:

OFF TOPIC ALERT: Cell phone companies are the worst? :) I want to find a cell provider that doesn't require a contract... "Can you hear me now?" :D

The $5 mirroring charge is pure cr@p though....I'm stuck paying that for a 5+ yr. old SD receiver I keep in a guest room. If they start charging lease fees for the primary, non-DVR receiver, I'm out. If they can't recoup the hardware cost on a 2 year total choice contract it's not my problem.I personally don't object to paying for something IF I use it. If you don't want to use that "guest" receiver, you can choose to disconnect it and don't pay the fee. And can always re-activate it at a later date if you decide to. You might or might NOT have to agree to a new 12-month contract if you do that though. :) I have two SD Series1 DirecTiVo receivers. The way I see it, I'm only paying $2.50 per tuner (they each have dual tuners). What a deal! Mostly use my H20 but occasionally I watch something I've TiVo'd in SD.

I have never heard anyone hint or suggest that D* is contemplating charging a lease fee for the Primary Receiver (DVR or not). Although, I must say that I wouldn't opt out if D* charged me $4.99 more a month. WHOOPS! Don't tell D* I said THAT! :D YMMV of course...

Cell phone companies are the worst? :) I want to find a cell provider that doesn't require a contract... "Can you hear me now?" :D

get a pre-paid

get a pre-paidHey Sco, not a bad idea! Silly me... For some reason I was thinking that only drug dealers and other criminals used those. :)

Woo! I was thinking about purchasing a H20 for use as a STB for local HD (only), but wondered about the subscription bit. . .

There are other brands/models of tuners, but the H20 comes with a converter for BBC-sat (apparently using the D-Dish), and I was hoping to get that to work. Does anyone know if the converter works with older D-Tuners?

get a pre-paidPrepaids eat up the money with a daily fee whether you use them or not. If they aren't kept paid up, they are deactivated. Depending on how much you use them, a contract could be cheaper.

Actually, the prepaid *emergency* cell phone I got my wife is a TracFone and I got a 1 year card to charge it up. Things don't tick off every month or anything. The minutes I have are good for a whole year. It averages about $8 a month since we use it for basics and emergencies only. I haven't put any minutes on it between yearly chargings.


Snewo

Another question: Does a deceased person's estate have to pay the prorated fee if a subscriber dies before the committment is fulfilled? :confused: :eek: :D

Yes

But in complete disclosure, the Wireless Companies and even Verizon DSL would do the same - thus its not just D* or E* - regardless of what we might think of the practice.

It is a legal debt that is owed, no different than a mortgage, credit card bill or a car loan.

Prepaids eat up the money with a daily fee whether you use them or not. If they aren't kept paid up, they are deactivated. Depending on how much you use them, a contract could be cheaper.

Actually, my wife and I use the Cingular prepaid plan and it does not require a daily fee. One of the prepaid plans let you pay 25 cents a minutes with no other fees. It is really nice. My wife and I get the $25 refill card and it is good for 3 months.

Later,
Doug

Prepaids eat up the money with a daily fee whether you use them or not. If they aren't kept paid up, they are deactivated. Depending on how much you use them, a contract could be cheaper.

Or simply have NO account whatsoever and walk around with a charged cell phone and then dial *611 or 911 for emergencies only......I think it's a $1.25 charge. no strings attached....no contracts or pre-paid cards!!!

Sorry, but to get back on subject....I will be moving the H20 into the dining room because it's been a little chilly in there.....See, even if your not a D*TV customer, the H20 can still be useful as an effecient way to heat the room of your choice.

I had only run into plans with ticking meters in my search. The 3 month expiration date is a bother though and is a de facto daily fee. I want a phone I can take on vacation and only use in case of emergencies that won't be deactivated if it doesn't have available minutes.

Now back to your regularly scheduled program.

Prepaids eat up the money with a daily fee whether you use them or not. If they aren't kept paid up, they are deactivated. Depending on how much you use them, a contract could be cheaper.

Do some more homework -

OFF TOPIC ALERT: Cell phone companies are the worst? :) I want to find a cell provider that doesn't require a contract... "Can you hear me now?" :D
Guess this officially makes me a Thread - Hi Jacker? :) That was easy... :D

Sincere apologies.

Sorry if this has already been answered, but I'm having issues with getting my Dolby sound to work on the HD channels like HBO, Discovery, TNT, etc. The H20 is set to send Dolby out, but my stereo receiver does not get any signal. When I change the output on the H20 to just the regular non-dolby, then I do get sound (but not in DD obviously). To me this says that the optical cable I'm using is OK. When I switch to a DVD I get DD just fine, so I'm guessing the receiver is working OK. Is there any way to check to see if the H20 is putting out a DD signal? I've heard of issues with local DD signal, but nothing with the HBO's etc. Thanks

I finally got my replacement H20 receiver after 4 days (mine resets 10 times a day while watching HD Channels such as ESPN or TNT). I get it, hook everything up, and it will NOT POWER ON. Nothing happens when you plug it in. I can press power all day long but nothing ever happens. I even tried to use my old power cord. Nothing, nada. But both cords work in my old, resetting receiver. Directv has to send me yet another replacement. They gave me an $18 credit for 2 weeks without programming. I can still watch tv, but resetting during NBA games a hundred times is so unacceptable.

The replacement they sent me was another h20-600.

-Lou

You guys can stop it now. It doesn't help and I bet you both believe in helping.

Well kids, I think its time I pull the trigger and upgrade to this H20 that you all know so much about. Thanks for the very useful information. I'm assumming that dispite all its short comings you are all happy with it?

However, I heard a rumor that even if you lease, there is still a $500 upfront fee that is not refundable? Didn't sound right but I thought I'd ask the experts here.

Moderator

please keep it ON Topic: technical talk only

several posts edited/deleted

Does the H20 output 720P/1080i on the component output or just HDMI?

Thanks,

Does the H20 output 720P/1080i on the component output or just HDMI?

Thanks,

Both outputs are hot simultaneously. You can lock them on 720p or 1080i or let them float with the native resolution of the programming channel.

Both outputs are hot simultaneously. You can lock them on 720p or 1080i or let them float with the native resolution of the programming channel.

Thanks Bill. My TV is 1080i only. So if I understand the unit correctly (I don't have one yet), I would set the H20 at 1080i and it would then upconvert 720P programming to 1080i?

One last question, I've read posts that mention a format button - stretch, expand, etc.. Does this effect SD & HD material or are there seperate settings for each? My TV is 4:3 but the HD input changes the raster size to 16:9 only. I'm just trying to dtermin if I will have to switch formats everytime I switch between SD & HD material.

Thanks,

However, I heard a rumor that even if you lease, there is still a $500 upfront fee that is not refundable? Didn't sound right but I thought I'd ask the experts here.Silly rumor. Go to the D* website and you'll find the real scoop. Basically, the upfront cost is currently being offset by the rebate. There are some small costs, but definitely nothing like a $500 fee. Wow, I'd be happy to sell you truckloads of receivers at $500 a pop. :D

I now have the H20-100 (replaced the defective, original H20-600 that I started out with) and I am very pleased with it. Leastwise, until a HD-DVR that does Mpeg4 is released.

Thanks Bill. My TV is 1080i only. So if I understand the unit correctly (I don't have one yet), I would set the H20 at 1080i and it would then upconvert 720P programming to 1080i?

Yes, along with 480i and 480p programming. You actually do this by deselecting 480i, 480p, and 720p as enabled output resolutions in the options menu. That leaves only 1080i.

One last question, I've read posts that mention a format button - stretch, expand, etc.. Does this effect SD & HD material or are there seperate settings for each? My TV is 4:3 but the HD input changes the raster size to 16:9 only. I'm just trying to dtermin if I will have to switch formats everytime I switch between SD & HD material.

There are not seperate settings. In the setup menu there is an option to set your display to 4:3 or 16:9. Once set the H20 knows how to format the output. I don't have a 4:3 display so I never test the 4:3 function. Maybe someone else has more insight, but it seems fairly straightforward to me.

I'm about to give D** a call and schedule a first time install. After reading all these posts I'm now wondering if I should tell the installers specific models I want for the tuners? What is the consensus on the HD20's? Should I ask for the -100 or the -600? I'm just trying to avoid future headaches, but you get one just trying to figure out which is best one to have. :D

Can anyone recommend their OTA antenna upgrade? I think it's $99, but I have no idea if it's a decent set up or not. I'm about 28 miles from most of the stations in the flat lands of Miami, but I want to be sure I can get a good OTA signal.

Any suggestions? Thanks.

I'm about to give D** a call and schedule a first time install. After reading all these posts I'm now wondering if I should tell the installers specific models I want for the tuners? What is the consensus on the HD20's? Should I ask for the -100 or the -600? I'm just trying to avoid future headaches, but you get one just trying to figure out which is best one to have. :D

Can anyone recommend their OTA antenna upgrade? I think it's $99, but I have no idea if it's a decent set up or not. I'm about 28 miles from most of the stations in the flat lands or Miami, but I want to be sure I can get a good OTA signal.

Any suggestions? Thanks.dchristie,

The H20-600 that I first got was replaced by a H20-100. It's working fine!

The good folks at D* will probably not even know what you are talking about when you ask for either a H20-100 or H20-600. As I understand it, you can not specify which receiver they provide you with. Fact is, as long as it works -- who really cares? (Okay, some people honestly believe the -600 has a slightly better OTA tuner for fringe signals?)

D* will replace any receiver that fails. So, if you get a new or refurbished receiver that works great, then that's great. If not, you report it and get another receiver --- that may or may not work.

At least you don't have to worry about which unit to ask for. :rolleyes:

Just my two cents worth regarding an antenna. I would buy one and install it myself. My experiences with D* tech service has not been stellar. (see my name)

I would prefer NOT to have anything installed by D*. Or, if it is --- I figure that I'll have to re-do it again.

The tech support people are very friendly and try very hard to help. Tech service --- on the other hand --- does not win my vote.

Does the HLS5087W and/or H20 not support DA Out via HDMI?

I just brought home a new Samsung 1080p DLP tonight, along with the DirecTV H20 Satellite Receiver, and a Samsung DVD-HD860 720p/1080i player.

Unfortunately I'm not getting any DA (Digital Audio) feed from the H20 nor DVD through the HDMI. I do get sound, just not actual DA (my A/V Receiver is not recognizing it as such). I believe I have everything setup properly, which includes an HDMI output from both the H20 and DVD into the TV, and a fiber optic from the TV DA Out to the A/V Receiver's DA In (which is the same one I've been using without any problems).

For a test, I disconnected the DA from the back of the TV and went straight from the H20 into the A/V Receiver, and I get perfect DA output now. However, I just tested to learn that the HD860 does not support DA via HDMI (bummer), and it actually puts up a warning prompt stating, "HDMI Audio not supported", when selecting 'Bitstream' within the DVD menu (it plays audio fine via PCM mode, tho).

So I've come to these conclusions:

1: The H20 does not not support DA out via HDMI, or...
2: The HLS5087W is not decoding it correctly out to the A/V Receiver.

I tend to believe it's #1, just like the HD860.

Any suggestions or comments? Thanks in advance!

Sincerely,

James

Unfortunately I'm not getting any DA (Digital Audio) feed from the H20 nor DVD through the HDMI. I do get sound, just not actual DA (my A/V Receiver is not recognizing it as such).James,

I think you might have answered your own question?

What A/V receiver do you have? That might be the problem? And, why are you using your TV to pass audio from the H20 & DVD back into your A/V receiver? Why not JUST simply connect the DA (optical) outputs of the DVD and H20 sat-receiver into your A/V receiver? THAT will get you DA... Don't tell me your A/V only has one optical DA input. :eek:

From what you have said --- the Samsung DVD does NOT pass DA via HDMI --- so connecting the DVD's audio through your TV will not produce DA, anyway?

Just to let you know, I experienced the same lack of Digital Audio when I connected the HDMI output's of my H-20 Receiver and my DVD Player to the Plasma's Input's.

Then I connected my Plasma's digital out (via optical cable) to my A/V receiver. Only sound I could get was ProLogic.

I later found out that my Hitachi Plasma would only output 2 channel's of audio via its optical out. (it stated this in the manual)

So I ran the DVD's coxial output directly to the A/V amp and got Dolby Digital 5.1. The same method worked with my H-20 too. Hope this helps/

Thanks guys! Yeah, I am slightly new to the latest HDMI standards, so please forgive my lack of experience in this area.

Here's the answer I sought (thanks Matt!):

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7747036&&#post7747036

Your TV as with most of them that have HDMI inputs and ATSC tuners can't pass-through DD from the HDMI input to the optical output, they just aren't designed to do what you are trying. You need to hook the audio outputs from the H20 and DVD player directly to the AV receiver.

Most if not all TV's with HDMI inputs can only accept PCM audio over the HDMI connection, the chipsets aren't designed to handle multiple incoming channels since the TV only has two speakers. This can lead to issues with certain input sources because the TV can tell them during the HDMI handshake to only pass PCM over the connection which also causes the other digital outputs on the device to pass only PCM also.

Why in the world would TV manufacturers put an optical out if they realize it can't support more than PCM? Or is optical PCM better than standard Audio out? Regardless, I seriously doubt the ear can determine such, and the entire idea just seems counter-productive to me.

Thanks!

Been a new D* hd subscriber for 3 weeks. I've gone through 3 H20 receivers as follows:

Rec. 1 - H20 100 - Bad HDMI port
Rec. 2 - H20 600R - After 5 min warm up receiver lost all channels. Does same after restart
Rec. 3. H20 600 - Some HD channels come in but espn2, discovHD, HDnet, ABCE, FoxE either don't come in or break up badly if they do.

Tech just came today and said 3rd receiver is bad. Didn't have replacement. D* send a forth receiver via FedEx. Any one seen anything like this?

Been a new D* hd subscriber for 3 weeks. I've gone through 3 H20 receivers as follows:

Rec. 1 - H20 100 - Bad HDMI port
Rec. 2 - H20 600R - After 5 min warm up receiver lost all channels. Does same after restart
Rec. 3. H20 600 - Some HD channels come in but espn2, discovHD, HDnet, ABCE, FoxE either don't come in or break up badly if they do.

Tech just came today and said 3rd receiver is bad. Didn't have replacement. D* send a forth receiver via FedEx. Any one seen anything like this?

Factually no I haven't. I have 2 H20 (1 each of 100 and 600). I had requested a replacement for the other 600 due to its location inside of a cabinet and my concern for heat buildup, but it had had no problem. The replacement works fine also.

But you aren't off to a good start, I hope it works out for you.

Been a new D* hd subscriber for 3 weeks. I've gone through 3 H20 receivers as follows:

Rec. 1 - H20 100 - Bad HDMI port
Rec. 2 - H20 600R - After 5 min warm up receiver lost all channels. Does same after restart
Rec. 3. H20 600 - Some HD channels come in but espn2, discovHD, HDnet, ABCE, FoxE either don't come in or break up badly if they do.

Tech just came today and said 3rd receiver is bad. Didn't have replacement. D* send a forth receiver via FedEx. Any one seen anything like this?

Bummer. I am on my third, but 4 is more than 3....

"Why in the world would TV manufacturers put an optical out if they realize it can't support more than PCM? Or is optical PCM better than standard Audio out? Regardless, I seriously doubt the ear can determine such, and the entire idea just seems counter-productive to me."James,

Why would you want to pass the audio through the TV in the first place? For that matter, why run ANY audio to the TV/monitor if you have an A/V receiver that does digital audio? I think it's pretty safe to say that "most" of the amps built-into TV/monitors are simply two-channel and basically low audio-quality...

It just seems much simpler to directly output the DA (optical or coaxial) from the H20 and DVD into your A/V receiver? But, maybe it just seems obvious to me because my monitor is several feet away from my other components? Even if I could do it, I wouldn't want to... :)

Been a new D* hd subscriber for 3 weeks. I've gone through 3 H20 receivers as follows:

Rec. 1 - H20 100 - Bad HDMI port
Rec. 2 - H20 600R - After 5 min warm up receiver lost all channels. Does same after restart
Rec. 3. H20 600 - Some HD channels come in but espn2, discovHD, HDnet, ABCE, FoxE either don't come in or break up badly if they do.

Tech just came today and said 3rd receiver is bad. Didn't have replacement. D* send a forth receiver via FedEx. Any one seen anything like this?

Regarding receiver 3 issues - Are you sure that your new dish is properly aligned against all 5 satellites? The yokels who installed mine refused to use a sat. metering tool in favor of one tech at the TV talking to the other one over cell phones! So... I've got at least 2 HD channels whose signal levels are in the 30 range and heavily pixelated.. and they have to come back to do it right!

Been a new D* hd subscriber for 3 weeks. I've gone through 3 H20 receivers as follows:

Rec. 1 - H20 100 - Bad HDMI port
Rec. 2 - H20 600R - After 5 min warm up receiver lost all channels. Does same after restart
Rec. 3. H20 600 - Some HD channels come in but espn2, discovHD, HDnet, ABCE, FoxE either don't come in or break up badly if they do.

Tech just came today and said 3rd receiver is bad. Didn't have replacement. D* send a forth receiver via FedEx. Any one seen anything like this?

I went through 4 H20 receivers, the first 3 were H20-600 and the last one was a H20-100. I was also blessed with a total of 10 tech visits and countless hours on the phone with D*

My problem still has not been solved, channels 72 (ESPN2 HD) and 79 (HDNET) both pixelate heavy and is unwatchable. D* still wants to send out techs but the other 10 didn't fix the problem. These two channels are on the same satellite and same transponder.

They also changed my wiring from the receiver to the switch outside and my switch was changed 4 times as well. The dish was aligned and then they came back to swap out the dish and also came back out to realign the new dish.

Each time, I asked the techs if I have a clear line of site to all of the satellites and they each claimed that I did.

If you or anyone has a fix for this, please let me know, I'm losing my mind.

I went through 4 H20 receivers, the first 3 were H20-600 and the last one was a H20-100. I was also blessed with a total of 10 tech visits and countless hours on the phone with D*

My problem still has not been solved, channels 72 (ESPN2 HD) and 79 (HDNET) both pixelate heavy and is unwatchable. D* still wants to send out techs but the other 10 didn't fix the problem. These two channels are on the same satellite and same transponder.

They also changed my wiring from the receiver to the switch outside and my switch was changed 4 times as well. The dish was aligned and then they came back to swap out the dish and also came back out to realign the new dish.

Each time, I asked the techs if I have a clear line of site to all of the satellites and they each claimed that I did.

If you or anyone has a fix for this, please let me know, I'm losing my mind.Valium maybe?

Damn Chorgey, that sounds like a nightmare on Elm Street... Ten Techs? How have you managed to deal with that? You deserve a medal!

The "fix" for this is to just get ONE (1) tech out to your house who knows what they are doing? As they always say: "The Eleventh Time Is The Charm". Right? :rolleyes:

Or, do as I would have done by now: take the dish and receiver and feed it to the fishes. :D

You might have recourse through the Geneva Convention? Isn't torture illegal? Whoops... Maybe not.

Not that it will help, but we're all pulling for ya. :cool:

Is there any dust or dirt on the dish. I took the hose to mine. The only time I had bad pixelatetion was on TNT during a basketball game and one day all the HD channels in the 70's had heavy pixelatetion. D* must had been working on them.

Is there any dust or dirt on the dish. I took the hose to mine. The only time I had bad pixelatetion was on TNT during a basketball game and one day all the HD channels in the 70's had heavy pixelatetion. D* must had been working on them.

There most likely isn't dirt or dust on the dish, this happened with the original 5 LNB dish and the new one. My numbers are good too, they're pulling in at 80, 74 and 80

I went through 4 H20 receivers, the first 3 were H20-600 and the last one was a H20-100. I was also blessed with a total of 10 tech visits and countless hours on the phone with D*

My problem still has not been solved, channels 72 (ESPN2 HD) and 79 (HDNET) both pixelate heavy and is unwatchable. D* still wants to send out techs but the other 10 didn't fix the problem. These two channels are on the same satellite and same transponder.

They also changed my wiring from the receiver to the switch outside and my switch was changed 4 times as well. The dish was aligned and then they came back to swap out the dish and also came back out to realign the new dish.

Each time, I asked the techs if I have a clear line of site to all of the satellites and they each claimed that I did.

If you or anyone has a fix for this, please let me know, I'm losing my mind.

About the SOS I'v been going through. I'v had 2 H20-600 One built in Korea and the other in China. Both worked until I turned them off and then back on. Then it was a color show. Beautiful horz and vert color lines. No picture.

Directv told me that they wanted exclusive control of all receivers and did not allow Sony or anyone to make them. Greed and its backfired. Can't wait for FiOS.

I went through 4 H20 receivers, the first 3 were H20-600 and the last one was a H20-100. I was also blessed with a total of 10 tech visits and countless hours on the phone with D*

My problem still has not been solved, channels 72 (ESPN2 HD) and 79 (HDNET) both pixelate heavy and is unwatchable. D* still wants to send out techs but the other 10 didn't fix the problem. These two channels are on the same satellite and same transponder.

They also changed my wiring from the receiver to the switch outside and my switch was changed 4 times as well. The dish was aligned and then they came back to swap out the dish and also came back out to realign the new dish.

Each time, I asked the techs if I have a clear line of site to all of the satellites and they each claimed that I did.

If you or anyone has a fix for this, please let me know, I'm losing my mind.


You didn't indicate whether this is new or upgrade installation. Your problem may be caused by a reflection from a nearby structure causing phase shift cancellation. Sometimes this can be resolved by moving dish, changing to multiple dishes or dish type (moving back to 3 lnb type). With number of attempts it is unlikely there is a equipment failure but rather installation problems.

You didn't indicate whether this is new or upgrade installation. Your problem may be caused by a reflection from a nearby structure causing phase shift cancellation. Sometimes this can be resolved by moving dish, changing to multiple dishes or dish type (moving back to 3 lnb type). With number of attempts it is unlikely there is a equipment failure but rather installation problems.

This was an upgrade installation. I originally had a 3 LNB dish but when I bought my HDTV this past January and called D* to set me up for High Definition, they told me that they needed to install the new 5 LNB for locals in HD. I believe it's either an install problem or that there is truly not a clear line of sight, although all techs told me that it was clear, that I wouldn't be pulling in good numbers if there was a tree or structure in the way.

edit: It's odd that only 2 channels are having this problem and that they are on the same satellite and transponder (channels 72 and 79)

I've had several H20's come up with the message "Please insert valid access card etc". D* ends up sending me a new card each time and viola they work again. I've had receivers with heat issues before (the ts-160s wouldn't pickup locals if they ran to long) but I think the H20s are damaging the cards and that's why some people are seeing said loss in programming or scrambled channels, in particular channels 72-79. Anyone else care to comment? I looked through most of the H20 posts but alot of the issues I've read are dish related (i.e. not level or slightly off tilt)

This was an upgrade installation. I originally had a 3 LNB dish but when I bought my HDTV this past January and called D* to set me up for High Definition, they told me that they needed to install the new 5 LNB for locals in HD. I believe it's either an install problem or that there is truly not a clear line of sight, although all techs told me that it was clear, that I wouldn't be pulling in good numbers if there was a tree or structure in the way.

edit: It's odd that only 2 channels are having this problem and that they are on the same satellite and transponder (channels 72 and 79)

I didn't find the radiation pattern for the 5 lnb dish but it must be broader than the previous models. This would allow multi path co-channel interference to be worse. Digital signals are far less affected than analog but it can still exist. If you can get locals ota you don't need the 5 lnb (for now). Did you try h-20 with 3 lnb before the switch? With microwave sometimes moving the dish a very small amount will move a interfering signal from a strong side lobe into a null and fix the problem. They are probably right about something in the way.

I didn't find the radiation pattern for the 5 lnb dish but it must be broader than the previous models. This would allow multi path co-channel interference to be worse. Digital signals are far less affected than analog but it can still exist. If you can get locals ota you don't need the 5 lnb (for now). Did you try h-20 with 3 lnb before the switch? With microwave sometimes moving the dish a very small amount will move a interfering signal from a strong side lobe into a null and fix the problem. They are probably right about something in the way.

I didn't try the H-20 with the 3 LNB because D* told me that I needed the 5 LNB to pull in the locals in HD. I'm not close to any of the broadcasters, I'm in Southern New Jersey and most of the locals are coming out of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

They never mentioned that something is in the way, they said just the opposite. I'm the one who thinks that something may be in the way but they won't admit it.

I didn't try the H-20 with the 3 LNB because D* told me that I needed the 5 LNB to pull in the locals in HD. I'm not close to any of the broadcasters, I'm in Southern New Jersey and most of the locals are coming out of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

They never mentioned that something is in the way, they said just the opposite. I'm the one who thinks that something may be in the way but they won't admit it.

My answer wasn't clear I meant as the 3 lnb worked before there is nothing in the road. I would have them reinstall the 3 lnb and if everything is ok, look into getting a separate dish and down converter for the ka/ku band.

My answer wasn't clear I meant as the 3 lnb worked before there is nothing in the road. I would have them reinstall the 3 lnb and if everything is ok, look into getting a separate dish and down converter for the ka/ku band.

Yes, the 3 lnb worked but that was on SD. The channels that I'm having a problem with are two channels that I never had before (72 and 79) I'm curious if the 3 lnb would work better on those two channels and if so, why didn't the techs point that out? My better half would kill me if they drill more holes in the roof though. I believe that the old dish and new dish would be too close together though.

edit: After further research, the two channels (and also channel 97) are B-28 119°

I'd love to have this working properly

Yes, the 3 lnb worked but that was on SD. The channels that I'm having a problem with are two channels that I never had before (72 and 79) I'm curious if the 3 lnb would work better on those two channels and if so, why didn't the techs point that out? My better half would kill me if they drill more holes in the roof though. I believe that the old dish and new dish would be too close together though.


As I receive local hd ota I am still using the 3 lnb. Both 72 and 79 as well as others are in hd and work good. My dish and ota yagi antennas are co-mounted on a single piece of pipe using commercial two way radio base station antenna mounting brackets attached to a sink vent pipe on the roof. I live on a hill top and during the year we have 50 to 80 mph winds and have had no problems for 10 years or so. Two dishes could be stacked vertically on single vent pipe however that might be a little too much wind loading but most houses have multiple vents. As far as technical knowledge most field technicians and installers I've known over 30 years in the radio communications business are not too knowledgable or they would have better jobs. Back to your question about obstructions, while the separation between satellites above the equator may be quite a ways given the distance from New Jersey there should not be enough change in dish orientation to cause shadows where there were none before. The 5 lnb dish also probably has less db gain than the 3 lnb due to it's wider beam width (a single lnb should be best) resulting in lower signal strength plus being much harder to align correctly.

The 5 lnb dish also probably has less db gain than the 3 lnb due to it's wider beam width (a single lnb should be best) resulting in lower signal strength plus being much harder to align correctly.Apparently, it's not unheard of to have multiple single LNB dishes --- each pointing at one satellite (especially if the "look" of multiple dishes doesn't offend the wife's sensitivities)? :)

How many dishes would a person need to replacea 5-LNB dish? Probably five? Would each dish use "standard" LNBs? :confused:
Isn't it true that D* will use one of its five satellites exclusively for DirecWay? So, maybe all one would be is only four dishes instead of five? :eek:

The upside, of course, would be that aiming each dish could be done more precisely and result in higher signal strengths? Noticeably higher compared to the 5-LNB dish, if it were aimed "fairly" well? Would this cut down on rain fade too?

I live in a very secluded area with no nearby (nosey) neighbors, but still, the thought of four (or five) pizza dishes is a bit daunting... Shades of BUD? ;)

Apparently, it's not unheard of to have multiple single LNB dishes --- each pointing at one satellite (especially if the "look" of multiple dishes doesn't offend the wife's sensitivities)? :)

How many dishes would a person need to replacea 5-LNB dish? Probably five? Would each dish use "standard" LNBs? :confused:
Isn't it true that D* will use one of its five satellites exclusively for DirecWay? So, maybe all one would be is only four dishes instead of five? :eek:

The upside, of course, would be that aiming each dish could be done more precisely and result in higher signal strengths? Noticeably higher compared to the 5-LNB dish, if it were aimed "fairly" well? Would this cut down on rain fade too?

I live in a very secluded area with no nearby (nosey) neighbors, but still, the thought of four (or five) pizza dishes is a bit daunting... Shades of BUD? ;)

My previous post was related to a 5 lnb dish not working with chs 72 & 79. His 3 lnb had been working but he needed dtv locals. my suggestion was 2 dishes, a 3 lnb and a single. 5 single dishes would be overkill. That being said higher gain would improve rain fade but probably not eliminate it. Has to do with wave length of signal, power and antenna gain vs rain density and size of drops, fog as a example won't cause a problem, small boat radar works in fog but not in rain.

"Has to do with wave length of signal, power and antenna gain vs rain density and size of drops, fog as a example won't cause a problem, small boat radar works in fog but not in rain."Ahhh.

So when I install D* in my 16-foot Boston Whaler it won't work very well when it's raining?

I was just "wondering theoretically" about multiple dishes instead of a 5-LNB dish. I really don't think my wife will volunteer to climb up on the roof and remove the 5-LNB and then re-install five little dishes. She's afraid of ladders!

:D

My previous post was related to a 5 lnb dish not working with chs 72 & 79. His 3 lnb had been working but he needed dtv locals. my suggestion was 2 dishes, a 3 lnb and a single. 5 single dishes would be overkill. That being said higher gain would improve rain fade but probably not eliminate it. Has to do with wave length of signal, power and antenna gain vs rain density and size of drops, fog as a example won't cause a problem, small boat radar works in fog but not in rain.

With that being said, I won't be able to get the HD locals if I have the 5 lnb removed and install a 3 lnb and a single on the roof, or am I not following it correctly? If that was an option, would the hardware from the 5 lnb still be used? I already have the hardware from the 3 lnb up there and now the hardware from the 5 lnb, there's remnant of dishes up there as it is.

With that being said, I won't be able to get the HD locals if I have the 5 lnb removed and install a 3 lnb and a single on the roof, or am I not following it correctly? If that was an option, would the hardware from the 5 lnb still be used? I already have the hardware from the 3 lnb up there and now the hardware from the 5 lnb, there's remnant of dishes up there as it is.

You are not following! With a 3 lnb plus a single with the proper lnb for the single would allow locals. The only problem might be the 5's pipe size which I understand is a little larger than the three or single. That should be able to overcome.

P.S.

I forgot the first thing you need to do is hookup the 3 lnb again and see if the hd 70s are ok. If not forget the single dish and have them look at 72 & 79 chs with a spectrum analyzer to try and determine where problem is. Based on the other complaints I have read you have a somewhat unique problem.

Ahhh.

So when I install D* in my 16-foot Boston Whaler it won't work very well when it's raining?

I was just "wondering theoretically" about multiple dishes instead of a 5-LNB dish. I really don't think my wife will volunteer to climb up on the roof and remove the 5-LNB and then re-install five little dishes. She's afraid of ladders!

:D

No but with stabilized tracking antenna and hood for screen should work good while fishing.

How many dishes would a person need to replacea 5-LNB dish?

Simple....you cannot have any.

Right now there is no way to take the signals from the 5 birds and combine them back in the way they need to be.

Some older users that use this approach because of trees in their yard (or the neighbors) already know they are SOL.

Hi guys,

I bought two H20's from Best Buy and installed my first with out any problems. One day I had a power outage and when I started up my H20 it couldn't download the D* Guide, it just said Downloading Guide 0%. I tried Unplugging the receiver and also reseting everything but nothing helped. The wierd thing is that after I week I plugged it back in and it worked fine but the same thing happened to me once more and I'm stuck without a reciver right now.

My signal strength on this receiver is in the 60's and 70's. My other receiver in the house a Samsung 360 works prefectly. The funny thing is that I tried plugging my secondary H20 to see if I had a defective unit and the same thing happened, it just says downloading guide data 0%.

I'm frankly baffeled by this, how is it that the Samsung works just fine and my two H20 can't donwload the guide data?

I have even considered buying a refurbished Smasung 360 since I can't find them no more, but they come without an Access Card, what can I do if they don't come with a card?

I just got a replacement H20-100 and I was wondering what the dash channels like 3-1 were for. When I get the guide data I have a bunch of these dash channels and the guide lists programming on them, but they show a blank screen when I go to them. Is there something else I need to be able to watch the programming on these channels?

On all of my 100s (I have had 3 so far) it finds additional 'phantom' OTA digital channels that are not available in my DMA after a local scan. I don't know why it does it but it was consistent with all of them. Some of the phantom channels had pictures and some did not. The three 600s I have used do not have this problem and only find appropriate local digital channels during a scan. The only thing I could figure out to do is go to the OTA channel edit menu and disable them there. But occasionally they would pop back up in the guide.

"just got a replacement H20-100 and I was wondering what the dash channels like 3-1 were for"

These are the OTA channels that are local in your area, you'll have to connect an outdoor antenna to get them...BTW they're free.

Does anyone know the remote code for a Haier Plasma TV to be used with the HD-20 Directv Receiver?

Thanks for the responses Bill and Gass. i guess i'll just remove them from the guide since I don't have an antenna.

Thanks for the responses Bill and Gass. i guess i'll just remove them from the guide since I don't have an antenna.

If you do not have an OTA antenna you need to go back through the setup and select the option of Dish only.

If you do not have an OTA antenna you need to go back through the setup and select the option of Dish only.

I selected that option already. I have never selectd the dish and antenna option, yet I still get these channels listed in my guide.

I selected that option already. I have never selectd the dish and antenna option, yet I still get these channels listed in my guide.Strange... When I got my replacement H20-100 and ran guided setup, I inadvertantly selected dish and antenna. It "found" a bunch of OTA stations even though no antenna was installed. After I re-ran the setup and corrected the selection to be Dish with no antenna --- the OTA channels disappeared. Magic? :)

When I had my H20-100 for a week, it had those channels as well, even when I took out the antenna option in set up. I had to take them out in a custom list to make them go away. My h20-600 does not have them listed at all under dish only set up.

When I had my H20-100 for a week, it had those channels as well, even when I took out the antenna option in set up. I had to take them out in a custom list to make them go away. My h20-600 does not have them listed at all under dish only set up.Did you reset the receiver and re-run setup from scratch --- or just unselect the antenna? I don't understand why your H20-100 receiver behaves differently than mine...

Did you reset the receiver and re-run setup from scratch --- or just unselect the antenna? I don't understand why your H20-100 receiver behaves differently than mine...
I ran set up several times on that box the week I had it. Not because of that issue. The box was defective and went back (would not pass a signal over HDMI).

Does anybody have any idea of when we can expext a software update on the 600 series?
It has been quite a while and many issues need resolution.
Especially the PSIP OTA problem which did not exist prior to current software version.
DTV has been working on an answer for months.
Not in much of a hurry,are they?

OK, I need someone to verify this information. Will the H20 receive OTA DTV broadcasts work without a dish? I've heard conflicting information and was wondering if anyone could verify this.

OK, I need someone to verify this information. Will the H20 receive OTA DTV broadcasts work without a dish? I've heard conflicting information and was wondering if anyone could verify this.

No, it will not. Any older D* receiver will work as an OTA tuner, but the H20 has to be subscribed and receiving guide data from the sat.

I have a h20-100 and when I go to to 70 - 79 channels (HD) sometimes the channel will lock. For example it may lock up on channel 75 but no video. I have to reset ird.

Any ideas?

Anyone else having trouble receiving Dolby Digital with their H20 on the high def channels? I asked a couple pages back, but no response.
Thanks

Anyone else having trouble receiving Dolby Digital with their H20 on the high def channels? I asked a couple pages back, but no response.
Thanks
As far as I can tell, no problems here. I'm referring to the channels 70 and upwards. But, admittedly, my audio amp automatically adjusts to whichever standard is pumped out. I also have my H20 set to receive at Dolby Digital.

I'll tell you this, at least for me, it sounds great on my home theater system.

I have had my series 1 DirecTiVo receivers for many years and have been thoroughly spoiled. Skipping commercials, pausing live TV, watching recorded programs when it's convenient for me to watch...

But now, I have taken the plunge and bought a new plasma screen TV and a D* H20 (Mpeg4) receiver. But, unfortunately, in order for me to watch HD programming I must watch it live without any of the DVR features I've gotten so spoiled by.

For more than six months now I've repeatedly heard that D*is going to offer a DVR that will work with Mpeg4. But, not a hint of when such a DVR will eventually be available... Maybe by this summer? Maybe later? Meanwhile I must choose to either watch HD programming or else settle for watching SD programming with my DirecTiVo receivers. :(

My question is, what is taking so long? D* rolled out Mpeg4 some 8 or 9 months ago? Why the interminable delay? Is there something technically involved with recording Mpeg4 that is incredibly more difficult to achieve? The HR10-250 already does D* Mpeg2 HD --- so why can't D* just modify the HR10 receiver to handle Mpeg4? They could simply call it the HR20-250! :cool:

Does anyone know why it is taking D* so long? Maybe sadism, or maybe there's just something technical that I just don't understand? Why is it evidently such a big deal to marry a hard drive with a Mpeg4 receiver? It doesn't seem to me like it would be any big deal at all... :confused:

I'd gladly volunteer to beta test a Mpeg4 DVR ! :D

I have had my series 1 DirecTiVo receivers for many years and have been thoroughly spoiled. Skipping commercials, pausing live TV, watching recorded programs when it's convenient for me to watch...

But now, I have taken the plunge and bought a new plasma screen TV and a D* H20 (Mpeg4) receiver. But, unfortunately, in order for me to watch HD programming I must watch it live without any of the DVR features I've gotten so spoiled by.

For more than six months now I've repeatedly heard that D*is going to offer a DVR that will work with Mpeg4. But, not a hint of when such a DVR will eventually be available... Maybe by this summer? Maybe later? Meanwhile I must choose to either watch HD programming or else settle for watching SD programming with my DirecTiVo receivers. :(

My question is, what is taking so long? D* rolled out Mpeg4 some 8 or 9 months ago? Why the interminable delay? Is there something technically involved with recording Mpeg4 that is incredibly more difficult to achieve? The HR10-250 already does D* Mpeg2 HD --- so why can't D* just modify the HR10 receiver to handle Mpeg4? They could simply call it the HR20-250! :cool:

Does anyone know why it is taking D* so long? Maybe sadism, or maybe there's just something technical that I just don't understand? Why is it evidently such a big deal to marry a hard drive with a Mpeg4 receiver? It doesn't seem to me like it would be any big deal at all... :confused:

I'd gladly volunteer to beta test a Mpeg4 DVR ! :D

Yeah...
What he said... :rolleyes:

wow... my h20 keeps on turning itself off.... i am getting irritated with this ****... when is this update coming....

it keeps on reseting itself.... is anyone else having this problem

Anyone able to confirm that H20 can output digital audio (5.1) and analog audio at the same time?

Reason I ask is I like to use stuff with my whole-house audio system.

Example: HDTV football game is playing the main theater with 5.1 surround, but also like to have some of my house speakers (patio, porch, garage, etc) playing.

Thanks!

Anyone else having trouble receiving Dolby Digital with their H20 on the high def channels? I asked a couple pages back, but no response.
Thanks

No problems here. Did you go into setup under Audio and select Dolby Digital?

Chorgey,
Thanks for the reply - yes I've got the H20 set to output dolby in the audio menu. My receiver will switch over to whatever the H20 puts out automatically. When it's set to Dolby I get no sound (and no Dolby indicator on my receiver) - when I switch the H20 output to regular sound then I do get a signal to my receiver - just not in Dolby. I've got my VCR connected to the regular audio output jacks as some have suggested that having something connected to the regular audio jacks may be needed to make the H20 output Dolby via the optical cable - but no luck. The receiver is only a few months old, but I actually purchased it right before leasing became the only option. Has anyone had any luck getting D* to trade in a defective purchased H20? Thanks

it keeps on reseting itself.... is anyone else having this problemMy first H20-600 did. The replacement H20-100 receiver that D* shipped me works fine.

Might be time for you to get a replacement receiver? Just curious, does your receiver happen to feel like it's an oven (very hot to the touch)?

Didn't cost me anything and D* included a return shipping label so I didn't even have to pay to ship the defective receiver back to them. Made me happy. :)

Can someone steer me in the right direction.

Had a Sony HD300 (crapped out on me) that I was using for Directv (non HD) programming and OTA HDTV. Never had subscribed to the directv HD package because I didn't think it was worth the cost for what you got.

In need of a new directv (not necessarily HDTV needed) and OTA (HDTV needed for sure) intergrated receiver. I presume the H20 is the best for me?

What is the difference between the -100 and -600 series models? Which is better? Can you tell the difference on the box or something when buying?

Who/How is the best way to get one? Is it true, no matter where you buy one and how much you pay I am going to be hit with a $4.99 lease fee on my bill for as long as I have the receiver? Any way around this?

Thanks guys.

PS: Feel free to PM me instead of replying to the thread if you want.

Is it true, no matter where you buy one and how much you pay I am going to be hit with a $4.99 lease fee on my bill for as long as I have the receiver?
You say you are replacing a D* receiver that crapped out on you? There is no monthly lease fee if you have only one (1) D* receiver. The fee applies only on additional receivers. So, if you have one (1) receiver there is no (zero) monthly lease fees. If you have two (2) receivers you pay $4.99 extra per month. If you have three (3) receivers you would pay $9.98 extra per month, and so on...

I think that you might have to subscribe to HD from D* initially, but I got the first three months for free. I seem to remember that after the three months I could cancel the HD --- but don't sue me if I'm wrong. :) The CSRs at D* will be happy to explain it to you, I'm sure.

I don't know if the H20-100 receivers are available in retail outlets. If you order from D* you takes your chances and whichever model they happen to send you, even a refurb receiver?

You say you are replacing a D* receiver that crapped out on you? There is no monthly lease fee if you have only one (1) D* receiver. The fee applies only on additional receivers. So, if you have one (1) receiver there is no (zero) monthly lease fees. If you have two (2) receivers you pay $4.99 extra per month. If you have three (3) receivers you would pay $9.98 extra per month, and so on...

Yes, I'd be replacing my Sony HD300 which crapped out. I already have two receivers (counting the dead one) and pay a $4.99 for an extra receiver already and have since I started with D* 4 years ago. So, do I pay $4.99 x2 now? I have total choice and locals and two receivers currently.


I think that you might have to subscribe to HD from D* initially, but I got the first three months for free. I seem to remember that after the three months I could cancel the HD --- but don't sue me if I'm wrong. :) The CSRs at D* will be happy to explain it to you, I'm sure.

Yeah, those CSRs are soooooooooo helpful. :) I wouldn't mind getting the HD package anyway really. Just never thought it had enough for the money, but now my theater room is finished and I'm itching for all the HD my Sony HS20 projector can handle.


I don't know if the H20-100 receivers are available in retail outlets. If you order from D* you takes your chances and whichever model they happen to send you, even a refurb receiver?

I see them at BestBuy, Circuit City, Crutchfield, and all over.

Thanks for the help.

Chorgey,
Thanks for the reply - yes I've got the H20 set to output dolby in the audio menu. My receiver will switch over to whatever the H20 puts out automatically. When it's set to Dolby I get no sound (and no Dolby indicator on my receiver) - when I switch the H20 output to regular sound then I do get a signal to my receiver - just not in Dolby. I've got my VCR connected to the regular audio output jacks as some have suggested that having something connected to the regular audio jacks may be needed to make the H20 output Dolby via the optical cable - but no luck. The receiver is only a few months old, but I actually purchased it right before leasing became the only option. Has anyone had any luck getting D* to trade in a defective purchased H20? Thanks
I bought my H20 on Feb 28th (I own it) It was installed Mar 20th and about 2 weeks later I needed to replace it. Heat problems. D* had no problem replacing it. They sent me a new one with a prepaid return label so I could ship the defective unit back to them. Didn't cost me a cent :)

Yeah, those CSRs are soooooooooo helpful. :) I wouldn't mind getting the HD package anyway really. Just never thought it had enough for the money, but now my theater room is finished and I'm itching for all the HD my Sony HS20 projector can handle.
Thanks for the help.
Most of the use I get from the HD package is on Discovery HD Theater. To me that in itself is worth the 10 bucks a month.

I've had my HR10-250 a year. It's connected to my Sony 30XS955 via component and analog audio to the TV. Then I have analog audio running out of the TV to my Dolby PL receiver. This set up has worked great for me for years, allowing my TV to be my switching device.

Within the last 10 days I've started experience video lag (audio sync issues). The video is milliseconds behind the audio. This has happened on occasion since I had the unit and the instructions say to pause the DVR and then hit play and this usually corrects the problems. Well, recently this does not correct the audio.

I don't have audio delay on my receiver (it's 10 years old) and am not going to buy one to correct what should not be a problem otherwise. Again, this doesn't happen on every channel and doesn't happen all the time, but when it does happen, nothing seems to correct it (using pause, changing channels). Eventually, it corrects itself.

Any ideas - is the memory buffer in the HR10-250 starting to have problems?

Yes, I'd be replacing my Sony HD300 which crapped out. I already have two receivers (counting the dead one) and pay a $4.99 for an extra receiver already and have since I started with D* 4 years ago. So, do I pay $4.99 x2 now? I have total choice and locals and two receivers currently.Yeah, those CSRs are soooooooooo helpful. :) I wouldn't mind getting the HD package anyway really. Just never thought it had enough for the money, but now my theater room is finished and I'm itching for all the HD my Sony HS20 projector can handle. I see them at BestBuy, Circuit City, Crutchfield, and all over. Thanks for the help.
Hey R_Willis,

You will pay the single fee of $4.99 for the second receiver since you will be replacing the crapped out Sony. :p You will NOT have to pay two lease fees. If you were to add another receiver at some point you would only pay two lease fees (used to be called mirroring fees) --- but the first receiver is not charged any extra monthly fees... it's the same deal you have now.

Call DirecTV directly. They do offer "specials" to their "good" customers. Ask for a free receiver. Ask for free installation. Ask for a free pizza pie... If the CSR balks, ask for Customer Retenetion. Call back and talk to a second or third CSR if you have to --- but since you are already an existing customer (for a long time?) and will be adding HD service --- they will likely make you a much better deal (maybe not the pizza) than you will get by going to WorstBuy, ShortCircuitCity, or BustedCrutchFields. I think that you might be able to tell what model the receiver is in a retail store by where it is manufactured? Mexico is a -100 model. Shanghai or Peiking is a -600 model. Sorry, I don't remember where those -600s are actually built. Somewhere cold I'd guess. :p

As long as it works, I don't care which model I have. And if the receiver doesn't work D* replaces it at no charge. Sure beats owning it? ;)

Your new receiver will be a leased unit no matter where you buy it. Stores imply (lie) that you will own the receiver if you buy it from them, but in reality (read the small print) all you are actually buying is the right to lease the receiver. No biggie either. At least not in my most humble opinion. :D You will also have to agree to keep D* service for 24-months.

Far as I am concerned, there can't be enough HD programming! :) The more the better... Biggest problem I have now is that I will sometimes watch a HD program that I am not too interested in JUST because it is in HD. Although now, I am somewhat of an expert on the mating rituals of the pygmy, albino, hairless guinea pig in equatorial Africa. :)

I believe I ended up paying a total of something like $14.99 to get my H20. Got free installation, 3 months free national HD and after the rebate the receiver was free too. Sweet deal... All I had to do was ask nicely. The CSR was very nice, but didn't OFFER those until I asked... While not totally helpful with technical questions, the CSRs are extremely helpful and polite. Better than any other companies I've dealt with in a LONG time? Like Avis, they seem to be trying harder...

Hope this helps. Oh yeah, did I mention that you will not have to pay the lease fee twice... :D

When in doubt, ask... :)

To the Moderator of this thread - could you move my post (two above) about the HR10-250 to the HR10-250 thread in the recorders forum? I posted it here by mistake, where it is off-topic.

My first H20-600 did. The replacement H20-100 receiver that D* shipped me works fine.

Might be time for you to get a replacement receiver? Just curious, does your receiver happen to feel like it's an oven (very hot to the touch)?

Didn't cost me anything and D* included a return shipping label so I didn't even have to pay to ship the defective receiver back to them. Made me happy. :)


thats exactly the problem but now i come to find out it hasnt happened when on the sd channels and it happens when on the hd channels for a while...


anyone here of that?

Both outputs are hot simultaneously. You can lock them on 720p or 1080i or let them float with the native resolution of the programming channel.
Do I understand that both HD outputs of the H20 are active at the same time? Could I attach two side by side HD screens w/ the same resolution, 1 w/ hdmi input the other w/ component input, and see video on both screens at the same time? The directv tech people say yes, but I'd sure appreciate some confirmation before I rest a whole av distribution system on their reply. :eek: (the screens won't be side by side, of course, but I'm trying to eliminate length of run issues, etc. for the moment) Thanks a lot.

Do I understand that both HD outputs of the H20 are active at the same time? Could I attach two side by side HD screens w/ the same resolution, 1 w/ hdmi input the other w/ component input, and see video on both screens at the same time? The directv tech people say yes, but I'd sure appreciate some confirmation before I rest a whole av distribution system on their reply. :eek: (the screens won't be side by side, of course, but I'm trying to eliminate length of run issues, etc. for the moment) Thanks a lot.


Yes

thats exactly the problem but now i come to find out it hasnt happened when on the sd channels and it happens when on the hd channels for a while...


anyone here of that?

Are you on a local HD over-the-air channel when it resets itself?

If your HD 20 is cutting off in the middle of programming, you have a bad receiver. I used to have that problem. One thing that helped was keeping the receiver turned off when I wasn't using it. (Or at least it seemed to help)

After 3 tries (YES - THREE TRIES) - D* finally managed to send me a receiver that didn't shut off and reboot sporadically. I've been happy ever since, but after 3-4 different multi-hour nightmare tech support calls and two in-home visits where I had to take off from work, they finally fixed it.

Of course, they then charged me for the 2 receivers that didn't work and all the shipping which I had to fight to get removed. (Another multi-hour, multi-transferred phone call)

Bottom line - D*'s support is absolutely HIDEOUS. But at least now my TV works. One day when cable gets Sunday Ticket - I'M GONE.

I have my H20 hooked up to my Panny 8uk. Is there a way to use the same h20 receiver and hook it up to a second crt tv on the second floor?

Am I the only one ?

Directv- My name is ___ . How may I help you ?

Me- Hi ___. I'm having a problem with my H20 receiver. It indicates "searching for signal" but there is good signal on the line.

DTV- How do you know there is good signal on the line ?

Me- I've taken a Samsung receiver from another room and put it where the H20 is and it works fine.

DTV- O.K. The first thing I need you to do is check all the cable connections on the back of the receiver and at the wall to make sure nothing has come unplugged.

ME- Wait a minute. I already verified that the cabling is good buy changing receivers.

DTV- I need you to do this again.

ME- O.K..... The cabling is all O.K.

DTV- How has the weather been in your area over the last few days. If it is rainy or cloudy , that can effect satellite signals.

Me- The weather is fine. All of my other receivers work and the one I moved to where the H20 is worked. That means my receiver is bad. Send me another receiver please.

DTV- Let's check some signal strengths. What the signal strengths on 110, 119 ,99, 101

Me- All zero.

DTV- Has anything moved in front of the dish like a tree or some bushes may have grown too tall?

Me- No, if all of my other receivers work how could the problem be something blocking the dish ? Send me a new H20 receiver PLEASE.

DTV- Well, were gonna have to place a service call and send someone over to re-aim the dish and check the cabling. Our service rate is $70.00. Hold on while I see what our next available date.

Me- Let me talk to someone else please.

DTV- Who would you like to talk to ?

ME-Your supervisor please.

(Long wait while she explains what an a-hole I am to the supervisor)

DTV- Hello Mr.__ my name is ___. I understand you believe you are having a receiver problem.

Me- Yes. Please send me a new receiver.

DTV- Tell me about your problem.

Me- My H20 show "searching for satellite" with zero signal strength on all satellites but when I move my Samsung from another room to this location it works fine.

DTV- You mean you've taken another receiver and moved it to where the H20 is, taken the cables from the H20 and plugged them into the Samsung, and everything worked ?

Me- Precisely.

DTV- It sounds like your receiver may be bad I'll Fedex a new one out to you.....

Me- :rolleyes:

LOL - Don't get me started. To continue your example - the "supervisor" then leads you through all the same steps. For me, it was rebooting the H20 - which takes like 10 minutes to do. I actually did it FIVE times in one phone call - for 5 different people.

I even have two TV's with two separate receivers in the SAME ROOM - and they were asking me all the questions about the trees or the signal or the weather - when I could clearly see the other TV working fine.


Actually - my favorite D* moment was when they were crediting me back for the service call charge (which they said would be free). This took 20 minutes. They kept saying "Won't be long now...." as I heard manic typing in the background.

What the heck is going on there?

LOL - Don't get me started. To continue your example - the "supervisor" then leads you through all the same steps. For me, it was rebooting the H20 - which takes like 10 minutes to do. I actually did it FIVE times in one phone call - for 5 different people.

I even have two TV's with two separate receivers in the SAME ROOM - and they were asking me all the questions about the trees or the signal or the weather - when I could clearly see the other TV working fine.


Actually - my favorite D* moment was when they were crediting me back for the service call charge (which they said would be free). This took 20 minutes. They kept saying "Won't be long now...." as I heard manic typing in the background.

What the heck is going on there?

You are doing it wrong. When I call tier 2 and I want a swap I just say "I want to swap my H20." I do not hesitate or explain anything. The most I will say is that it's "bad". I am off the phone in 3 minutes and my H20 shows up the next business day. If you try to show how smart you are you invite them to question you. If you prefer to let everyone know how smart you are, have fun on the 1 hour conference call.

I've learned this lesson - although it's hardly about showing how smart I am - it's more about seeing if the H20 can be fixed.

My best advice is to make all calls directly to the customer retention line. More gets done there.

And always ask for free stuff after they keep you on hold. I've had Showtime for about 12 months now for free thanks to this nonsense (and the HD package for 6 months free).

I have my H20 hooked up to my Panny 8uk. Is there a way to use the same h20 receiver and hook it up to a second crt tv on the second floor?Yes. There are multiple jacks on the rear of the H20: a HDMI output; a set of component outputs (YPrPb); a S-Video output; and two composite outputs (RCA type). Depending upon how you have the H20 connected to you 8UK, that means you still have four other ways that you can output the H20 to another TV (upstairs?). Take your pick. Note: the HDMI output has a limit for how long its cable should be, so that's probably not a good idea for a long run?

You could also input the H20 into a audio/video receiver with multiple outputs...

You will also need to run a cable for audio. There are three audio outputs on the H20: one digital (optical) audio output and two pairs of RCA type audio outputs.

The RF remote control mode of the H20 might work when you take it upstairs. Or not... depending upon how far and what the RF signals have to pass through to get from upstairs to where the H20 is installed.

Additionally, whatever program you're watching on your 8UK will also be the program sent to your upstairs CRT.

Bottom line - D*'s support is absolutely HIDEOUS. But at least now my TV works. One day when cable gets Sunday Ticket - I'M GONE.
"HIDEOUS" ???

That seems like a bit of an overstatement. At least it does to me. In my unbiased opinion, D*'s support is far better than most (if not all) support provided by other large corporations. Admittedly, I've found D* technical support to be dismal on several ocassions, but the CSRs have always tried hard to help and have been very courteous. Even in the face of my corrosive sarcasm.

D* support involves many different kinds of equipment and they have to deal with a wide-range of customers. From brain-dead to guru status. When you consider that corporations generally don't hire geniuses as CSRs --- and don't pay them genius scale wages --- it isn't all that surprising that you didn't find your experience to be warm and fuzzy...

I'm sure you must have called for support from other companies? Have you found other tech support to be stellar? Or, also "hideous"? I'd guess that you might just be p-o'd because you had a really difficult time in getting a receiver that worked. Honestly, it sounds like you have every reason in the world to be angry. Three replacement receivers would be enough to make me want to scream. :)

Want to make a guess about how swell the support will be if you go with cable instead of D*? I don't subscribe to the Sunday Ticket any longer... But the thought of dealing with cable makes me cringe. Maybe your cable company is better?

"Absolutely HIDEOUS" ??? Come on now... :D

Originally Posted by sullender
Bottom line - D*'s support is absolutely HIDEOUS. But at least now my TV works. One day when cable gets Sunday Ticket - I'M GONE.

LMAO!
If you thnk the cable guys are going to have better CS than D* you must be smokin' some serious stuff! LOL!

A little help. Needed. Getting set up this weekend with a Denon AVR 4306 and DirecTV H20 through an HDMI connection. I've heard the horror stories from a few months back in this thread. does anybody know if this is still an issue? WIll it eventually work through HDMI? but perhaps after several H20 switch outs?

thanks

I have two H20 boxes. I have had the problem of the boxes resetting themselves when watch OTA. One of the boxes appears to be fine now. However one of them still is a problem. The screen will go black sometimes and the box locks up. Other times it will reset it self over and over again. It is so problematic that my wife will not tune to HD OTA channels. Anyone have any suggestions? What are the chances D*will swap the box. I don't have the "insurance" program. Am I looking at $99??? I own this receiver (IE not on the new lease program.)

im finally getting hooked up with an hr10-250 from d*tv this weekend after taking advantage of their "blowout" offer. i already am using an h20-100. planning on switching my ota antenna to the hr10-250. but what's the word regarding general quality between the 2?. right now, planning on moving my hdmi to the hr10-250 and making that my main receiver. the only reason i would continue to also keep the h20 activated is that in the event i have a problem with ota reception, i could get any hd programming on my locals through the h20. but has anyone compared the 2 and determined pq is much better on one or the other?

thanks.

LMAO!
If you thnk the cable guys are going to have better CS than D* you must be smokin' some serious stuff! LOL!

Funny, when I have a cable issue I call the lead technician that works my area on his cellphone and he's usually here within 30 minutes. If I need a new STB or cablecard, he has one in the truck.

Quite frankly, when I need 4 15foot runs of Quad RG6 when moving my Zinwell WB68 switch on the AT9 Dish last week, the cable tech had them made up and at my door in 15 minutes last week from the time I called him on the cellphone.!!!! Imagine getting that service from Directv, lol.

If its a network issue, I call the NOC supervisor directly.

Now, while no one else can do this with their cable supplier, Yes Moose, I seriously think I get better service out of my cable company than the level 1 CSRs like Brine at Directv any day of the week.

A little help. Needed. Getting set up this weekend with a Denon AVR 4306 and DirecTV H20 through an HDMI connection. I've heard the horror stories from a few months back in this thread. does anybody know if this is still an issue? WIll it eventually work through HDMI? but perhaps after several H20 switch outs? thanksebaxter,

Bad news... Far as I know (not all that far actually) the only way to find out is to hook the suckers up and shoot the juice to 'em. Maybe find a good horror story flick on HBO to test them out with? "Nightmare on Elm Street" maybe? ;)

I had a problem with my H20-600 not being polite with my AVR-4306 way back in March. H20 wouldn't shake hands... Went into a reboot loop. But, it wasn't really horrible. And, until I got a polite H20 that would shake hands I just connected the H20 directly up to my 50PHD8UK monitor via HDMI. I also was able to use the 4306 using the component connections. After I replaced the first H20 all has been fine with the H20/4306 combo. I now have a H20-100...

I suggest that you stop worrying quite so much about how horrible it might be... Everything could also work without a hitch! Worse comes to worst --- you'll just have to swap out the H20 to get one that doesn't have issues. I really don't think it is an on-going problem though.

Relax, take a deep breath and get ready to "enjoy" reading that Denon AVR-4306 manual... Now THERE'S something to really dread... :eek:

Funny, when I have a cable issue I call the lead technician that works my area on his cellphone and he's usually here within 30 minutes. If I need a new STB or cablecard, he has one in the truck. Quite frankly, when I need 4 15foot runs of Quad RG6 when moving my Zinwell WB68 switch on the AT9 Dish last week, the cable tech had them made up and at my door in 15 minutes last week from the time I called him on the cellphone.!!!! Imagine getting that service from Directv, lol. If its a network issue, I call the NOC supervisor directly. Now, while no one else can do this with their cable supplier, Yes Moose, I seriously think I get better service out of my cable company than the level 1 CSRs like Brine at Directv any day of the week.
You're not just funny, FanAtic --- you're absolutely, totally, freaking hilarious! :D

I would be willing to bet the farm that someone, somewhere, has a similar story involving a lead technician for D*. A real hotshot who knows everything there is to know about satellite TV... Maybe their next-door neighbor, a brother-in-law or (gasp) maybe their spouse? :eek:

But, I seriously question including you or them in a poll to see who has the better record for providing support to the great, unwashed masses.

I have a good friend that I grew up with who's a medical doctor. He still does house calls too! Well, at least to MY house... ;)

Your very own statement tells it all: "Now, while no one else can do this with their cable supplier, Yes Moose, I seriously think I get better service out of my cable company than the level 1 CSRs like Brine at Directv any day of the week."

No one else can do this? :confused: Are you saying that he won't drive 60-miles south to Sarasota to help me out whenever I have a problem? :p Why? Just because he works for a different cable company? What kind of a lousy deal is THAT? :D

The fact is that "GENERALLY SPEAKING" all corporations try to some extent to provide the highest-quality customer support possible. Given restraints on cost, etc. Some companies obviously do a better job than others. Fact is that I feel lucky these days when I call and actually get to speak to someone without an accent. I wish now that I would have studied Hindi when I was in school... :)

I don't work for D*. I don't even own D* stock (I do own a few shares of Comcast though). Yes, I've had problems with D* and needed to call them for support. And, while it wasn't "pretty" --- in my honest, unbiased, opinion --- the support that I got was superior. At least, superior to any support that I can remember getting from any other company. I don't know if that is so much a ringing endorsement for D* as much as it is a sad commentary on the support provided by other companies though? :rolleyes:

It's just my opinion... YMMV. Especially if you have a good friend who is a lead tech for the cable company. :D

I've had an H20 since early fall. It works ok, but I can't stand having to leave it on to record something. There's a movie on at 2pm today ... I have to leave the unit on while I'm at work. If my DVD Recorder can figure out when to turn on, why can't the H20?

Sorry for the rant. My question: do different versions of the H20 (perhaps by a different manufacturer) fix this problem? Or are they all like this?

im finally getting hooked up with an hr10-250 from d*tv this weekend after taking advantage of their "blowout" offer. i already am using an h20-100. planning on switching my ota antenna to the hr10-250. but what's the word regarding general quality between the 2?. right now, planning on moving my hdmi to the hr10-250 and making that my main receiver. the only reason i would continue to also keep the h20 activated is that in the event i have a problem with ota reception, i could get any hd programming on my locals through the h20. but has anyone compared the 2 and determined pq is much better on one or the other?

I have the same question. I am considering the 'blowout' deal for the HR10-250 and give up MPEG4 locals on the H20. But that would mean relying on the HR10-250 and its OTA receiver to pull in all my digital locals. The H20 does this with ease. Can anyone offer a comparison between the PQ and OTA ability of the HR10-250 and the H20-600 or H20-100?

Check this out...

So i asked on sunday to get a replacement receiver and since i have been a customer since 1999.... so the receiver came in today(H20).... and the fu#@ing thing doesnt even turn on

i called and gave them an earful...

I told them "somebody up there ripped me off... directv"

they are sending one right away....

Check this out...

So i asked on sunday to get a replacement receiver and since i have been a customer since 1999.... so the receiver came in today(H20).... and the fu#@ing thing doesnt even turn on

i called and gave them an earful...

I told them "somebody up there ripped me off... directv"

they are sending one right away....

They would have sent a replacement H20 even if you had been a customer for only 1 day. And it would have been sent overnight delivery.

I would assume they have sent out a couple million H20s by now. I cannot beleive you actually got one that was defective. How dare them. Good idea to call up and scream at an otherwise uninvolved customer service rep. That will teach them to mess with you.

Check this out... So i asked on sunday to get a replacement receiver and since i have been a customer since 1999.... so the receiver came in today(H20).... and the fu#@ing thing doesnt even turn on i called and gave them an earful... I told them "somebody up there ripped me off... directv" they are sending one right away....Raven56706:

Did you feel better after that? :p

The audacity of sending YOU a DOA... You have every reason in the world to be outraged. Besides, the job description for CSRs should include "getting yelled at by irate customers". :)

Film recommendation for Raven:

Rent or even better, go buy a DVD titled "Falling Down" starring Michael Douglas. It's an oldie from 1993 but I bet you'll love it.

Movie Tagline: "The adventures of an ordinary man at war with the everyday world."

It's one of my all-time favorites! A movie that I can really identify with. Definitely better than a silly chick flick, that's for sure! :D

Hope the next H20 replacement works, and I hope you enjoy the movie too... :cool:

lol..... i mean damn.... world cup fever only to find out the replacement receiver doesnt even turn on... i am sure anyone would be pissed

lol..... i mean damn.... world cup fever only to find out the replacement receiver doesnt even turn on... i am sure anyone would be pissedWorld Cup Fever? Does that have anything to do with The Mad Cow or The Bird Flu?

Now soccer fans, there's a group of REAL fans... When their team loses, they don't just piss & moan about it. They kill & maim. :)

I just never have been able to seem to get very excited about a bunch of men endlessly kicking a round ball back and forth - back and forth. Now, Roller Derby, on the other hand... :D

Like I said, you have every right in the world to be angry... Even if all you wanted to watch was Oprah --- it was enough to make a grown man cry... Lousy luck. But, maybe you'll be luckier next time! Try and stay positive. ;) We're all in this together you know...

gosh... sarcasm is a big thing here huh.. :)

I have the same question. I am considering the 'blowout' deal for the HR10-250 and give up MPEG4 locals on the H20. But that would mean relying on the HR10-250 and its OTA receiver to pull in all my digital locals. The H20 does this with ease. Can anyone offer a comparison between the PQ and OTA ability of the HR10-250 and the H20-600 or H20-100?

I have both of these receivers and here is my experience FWIW:
1) as far as picture quality, the H20 has a bit sharper picture, not a drastic difference ,but the HR10-250 is a bit softer.
2) as far as OTA sensitivity, the H20 is the hands down winner. Now some of my OTA is from 60-70 miles away and the H20 provides a reliable signal 80% of the time from this distance, whereas the HR10-250 pulls the faraway stations in only if the conditions are perfect. I would say if you are close to your OTA stations it should be a non-factor, but if you rely on fringe reception, the HR10-250 is not going to perform as well as the H20. My H20 is 600 series.

Deno

I have both of these receivers and here is my experience FWIW:
1) as far as picture quality, the H20 has a bit sharper picture, not a drastic difference ,but the HR10-250 is a bit softer.
2) as far as OTA sensitivity, the H20 is the hands down winner. Now some of my OTA is from 60-70 miles away and the H20 provides a reliable signal 80% of the time from this distance, whereas the HR10-250 pulls the faraway stations in only if the conditions are perfect. I would say if you are close to your OTA stations it should be a non-factor, but if you rely on fringe reception, the HR10-250 is not going to perform as well as the H20. My H20 is 600 series.

Deno

deno i'm in a similar boat, what model antenna are you using?

I'm wondering which is preferable? Running the OTA antenna into the H20-600 or into my Pioneer PD5060? Will one do a better job than the other? Right now I have it going to the H20 since I find it less hassle not having to switch sources. But I'm wondering if perhaps the tuner in the TV might show a better picture?

I did try the connection to the TV at first, but was getting very low signal strengths on the digital stations, like less than 30% across the board. The antenna is a 70mile range dual band from Radioshack mounted on a 5' pole on the roof. The antenna farm we get here in Miami is about 30 miles to the north of me. The picture from the OTA digital stations seem to look just fine, but I can't understand such low signal strength readings.

Does anyone have any suggestions? Thanks.

I split my OTA signal in my attic, near the antenna on the roof, & have it run to both my H20 & Sharp Aquos LC-32DA5U. The signal thru the TV's ATSC tuner is sharper than thru the H20's ATSC tuner, but the H20's tuner is more sensitive, & therefore picks up one OTA PBS station that I essentially cannot get thru the TV's tuner except @ night on some occasion. Big deal.

If u can't split the signal w/o suffering significant signal loss, then I'd recommend running the OTA signal thru HDTV's tuner. The only exception would be to run it thru the H20 if u plan on recording OTA signals. The foregoing is why I split my OTA signal. I record HD programming off local channels from my OTA source, not DBS, because the source is less compressed & therefore sharper.

I'm wondering which is preferable? Running the OTA antenna into the H20-600 or into my Pioneer PD5060? Will one do a better job than the other? Right now I have it going to the H20 since I find it less hassle not having to switch sources. But I'm wondering if perhaps the tuner in the TV might show a better picture?

I did try the connection to the TV at first, but was getting very low signal strengths on the digital stations, like less than 30% across the board. The antenna is a 70mile range dual band from Radioshack mounted on a 5' pole on the roof. The antenna farm we get here in Miami is about 30 miles to the north of me. The picture from the OTA digital stations seem to look just fine, but I can't understand such low signal strength readings.

Does anyone have any suggestions? Thanks.

thanks TechoFobe,

DirecTVs coming saturday so we'll see if they bring me the 600 or 100...

This is a Discussion Board for the H20 Directv Receiver only.
This Forum is not for any other issues, please keep to the topic.

Has anyone run into audio sync issues with their 600? I have an HDMI cable running to the tv and an optical cable from the 600 to the ht receiver. The optical cables just arrived last night from monoprice and prior to that I was using rca cables. I don't think the audio sync was as bad with the rca, but I probably wasn't paying too much attention. But after getting the new cables and setting them up last night I'm really seeing the sync issues.

What can be done to correct sync issues? I don't really see many other options that I have. I need to run the video via HDMI and run the audio via optical, otherwise I'll be compromising the digital feeds. Any ideas? Thanks.

I have both of these receivers and here is my experience FWIW:
1) as far as picture quality, the H20 has a bit sharper picture, not a drastic difference ,but the HR10-250 is a bit softer.
2) as far as OTA sensitivity, the H20 is the hands down winner. Now some of my OTA is from 60-70 miles away and the H20 provides a reliable signal 80% of the time from this distance, whereas the HR10-250 pulls the faraway stations in only if the conditions are perfect. I would say if you are close to your OTA stations it should be a non-factor, but if you rely on fringe reception, the HR10-250 is not going to perform as well as the H20. My H20 is 600 series.

Deno

Thanks. I am fairly close(about 20 miles or so) to the ota towers so hopefully it shouldn't be that much of an issue. I guess I can either get a second ota so I can run one each to the h20 and hr10-250, or just leave the antenna in the h20 unless i need to tivo an ota local.

Thanks again.

Has anyone run into audio sync issues with their 600? I have an HDMI cable running to the tv and an optical cable from the 600 to the ht receiver. . . What can be done to correct sync issues? I don't really see many other options that I have. I need to run the video via HDMI and run the audio via optical, otherwise I'll be compromising the digital feeds. Any ideas? Thanks.

IMHO, the 600 is a POS. I initially purchased a 600 @ Costco & it was nothing but problems. Continally crashed, couldn't keep a customized lineup. Audio sync was another in a long list of problems. Finally, after about a dozen calls to DTV, they finally offered to replace the DEFECTIVE unit. Now I have a 100. No problems. Call DTV & see if u can orchestrate a replacement.

IMHO, the 600 is a POS. I initially purchased a 600 @ Costco & it was nothing but problems. Continally crashed, couldn't keep a customized lineup. Audio sync was another in a long list of problems. Finally, after about a dozen calls to DTV, they finally offered to replace the DEFECTIVE unit. Now I have a 100. No problems. Call DTV & see if u can orchestrate a replacement.

I've had a 600 model for 4 months problem-free.

I'm still not real happy with the H20. I have 1 600 and 1 100 and I just can't seem to get the Local HD programs to come through without pixel problems. I've tinkered a great deal and it is MUCH improved but I hope Directv is doing something to fix this.

I live in the Chicago area and a buddy of mine has the same issue and from what I read it is very common.

I've redone rec room and bought all new electronics and I find it embarrassing to have company over and I "show off" my new gear and then get the pixel problems. It is especially maddening because ESPN and Discovery channel look so good.

Does anyone know if there is hope this problem will eventually be resolved through firmware updates or something else on the Directv end?

I'm still not real happy with the H20. I have 1 600 and 1 100 and I just can't seem to get the Local HD programs to come through without pixel problems. I've tinkered a great deal and it is MUCH improved but I hope Directv is doing something to fix this.

I live in the Chicago area and a buddy of mine has the same issue and from what I read it is very common.

I've redone rec room and bought all new electronics and I find it embarrassing to have company over and I "show off" my new gear and then get the pixel problems. It is especially maddening because ESPN and Discovery channel look so good.

Does anyone know if there is hope this problem will eventually be resolved through firmware updates or something else on the Directv end?

Use your ATSC tuner on your tv for HD locals, thats what I do....works good this way for me.

Yes. There are multiple jacks on the rear of the H20: a HDMI output; a set of component outputs (YPrPb); a S-Video output; and two composite outputs (RCA type). Depending upon how you have the H20 connected to you 8UK, that means you still have four other ways that you can output the H20 to another TV (upstairs?). Take your pick. Note: the HDMI output has a limit for how long its cable should be, so that's probably not a good idea for a long run?

You could also input the H20 into a audio/video receiver with multiple outputs...

You will also need to run a cable for audio. There are three audio outputs on the H20: one digital (optical) audio output and two pairs of RCA type audio outputs.

The RF remote control mode of the H20 might work when you take it upstairs. Or not... depending upon how far and what the RF signals have to pass through to get from upstairs to where the H20 is installed.

Additionally, whatever program you're watching on your 8UK will also be the program sent to your upstairs CRT.


Thank you for the suggestion but the 2nd floor is very far from h20. Is there way to use coxial cable?

Thank you for the suggestion but the 2nd floor is very far from h20. Is there way to use coxial cable?I've never used one, but there are Cat5 adapters that allow you to input an S-Video, plus red and white audio (RCA plugs) in and then output them at the other end (660 feet?). I just Googled it and found this site: http://www.lynxbroadband.com/ Not cheap I would imagine?

You might well be able to use coaxial cable (three of them, one for each of the yellow, red & white plugs) with inexpensive (Radio Shack) type adapters to go from a coax connector to RCA plug... But, you'd need to run three coax cables and before you did that you should check to see the distance you can cover using coax. I'd "guess" that it would work fine and be relatively inexpensive.

But don't take my word for it. I've never done anything like this. :)

I've never used one, but there are Cat5 adapters that allow you to input an S-Video, plus red and white audio (RCA plugs) in and then output them at the other end (660 feet?)......
We have this at work. We have several plasma monitors, with an Apple Macintosh broadcasting announcements and broadcasts throughout our complex. These adapters do an incredible job in passing audio and video.

But, it is indeed a pricey solution. For all practical purposes, converting each CAT5 line cost us about $500.00. But, for the far reaching we had to do of several hundred feet, it was the most logical.

deno i'm in a similar boat, what model antenna are you using?

Antennas Direct DB8 with Winegard preamp @ about 25 ft. Very good results with the H20. Not so good with HR10-250.

Deno

I currently have security cameras into a dvr which outputs to an rf modulator. I'd like to feed the h20 ota input with the rf output of the modulator but the h20 refuses to see any channel I set it to. The h20 does recognize real ota channels.
My hd300 works fine with this setup. Help!

The H20 tuner only decodes digital OTA broadcasts. The H20 tuner will not tune an analog OTA broadcast. Your modulator is providing an analog to the H20 and that is why it can't "see" any of your channels......

So is there a way to convert the analog signal to a digital format the h20 will accept?

No, for two reasons. First off it will be quite a while I suspect before we see an ATSC modulator in the consumer marketplace primarily for price reasons. Second, and this is specific tothe H20, the box wil only tune the channels it gets fron D* as being in your market or secondary market you select.

Just got my H20 and the AT-9 dish installed today. It is a -100 model. My old Hughes unit was replaced due to death by thunderstorm. The installer did not tune the dish for the new MPEG-4 birds since we will not be getting locals for several months yet and he said they are sending an AT-9 specialist around in the next few months to tweak them for the new birds.

PQ is very good with my Screenplay 7200 HD PJ.

For those that complain about guide speed.....

The H20 is a bit faster than my old Hughes and WAY, WAY faster than my older Panny. You have not seen slow until you have seen that Panny POS. It literally (I timed it) would take 2-4 seconds to draw each guide screen. Using that guide was painful!!

= The installer did not tune the dish for the new MPEG-4 birds since we will not be getting locals for several months yet and he said they are sending an AT-9 specialist around in the next few months to tweak them for the new birds.

If I were you, I'd call D* about this RIGHT NOW as this doesn't sound right. I have heard of no other market doing this....and in 3 months I am willing to bet you will fighting with D* about paying for a second service call if you do nothing now.

Directv is paying the company NOW to install the unit - not do a partial install. If this is the case, they should not pay the company until the job is complete.

This will comeback to haunt you unless you act TODAY.

Quite honestly, if I were you, I'd send a certified letter with return receipt to Directv about this as well. Otherwise, who's to say what is actually in records in their computers?

But quite honestly, if you can pay $10k for 720p DLP Screenplay unit, maybe money isn't important to you.

This will comeback to haunt you unless you act TODAY. Quite honestly, if I were you, I'd send a certified letter with return receipt to Directv......

Geez! Lighten Up! The tech clearly said that their company was sending a follow up tech to all recent AT-9 installs. I have no reason to doubt him. The second visit was expected within a few weeks. I will post as to what happens at that time, if I can remember (we are in the middle of a house remodel right now so things are hectic).

But quite honestly, if you can pay $10k for 720p DLP Screenplay unit, maybe money isn't important to you.

First of all, that is kinda insulting and second, 7200s are not cheap but they are damn well NOT $10K (not even MSRP). The current model (7205) can be had for under 5K.

Geez! Lighten Up! The tech clearly said that their company was sending a follow up tech to all recent AT-9 installs. I have no reason to doubt him. The second visit was expected within a few weeks. I will post as to what happens at that time, if I can remember (we are in the middle of a house remodel right now so things are hectic)..


LOL....I have a bridge in NY I'd like to sell you. The perfect scam....you don't even know it and won't know it until this installer is long gone and the company will deny everything.

I am now convinced more than ever this will come back to haunt you. Just look at the guy in the Amazon sold me a bad HDTV thread. As the people of New Orleans still have not figured out, sometime you have to take personal responsibility to protect yourself. I guess you'll learn the hard way.

First of all, that is kinda insulting and second, 7200s are not cheap but they are damn well NOT $10K (not even MSRP). The current model (7205) can be had for under 5K.

http://www.projectorcentral.com/infocus_screenplay_7200.htm

5k for a PJ that can only do 1280x720p. Nice!!!!

Too bad. You can find wonderful 9" tube crts from Curt Palme that will do 1920x1080i for far less or even get a Ruby for $7k.

I've seen D* on a Qualia PJ that can actually do 1920x1080 and its not a pretty site. As stated elsewhere over and over, D* probably looks pretty good on sets that are EDTV or 720p displays.

I've never used one, but there are Cat5 adapters that allow you to input an S-Video, plus red and white audio (RCA plugs) in and then output them at the other end (660 feet?). I just Googled it and found this site: http://www.lynxbroadband.com/ Not cheap I would imagine?

You might well be able to use coaxial cable (three of them, one for each of the yellow, red & white plugs) with inexpensive (Radio Shack) type adapters to go from a coax connector to RCA plug... But, you'd need to run three coax cables and before you did that you should check to see the distance you can cover using coax. I'd "guess" that it would work fine and be relatively inexpensive.

But don't take my word for it. I've never done anything like this. :)

I have this using the "RCA to F Connectors" and coax in my sports bar. Max distance is 100 to 150 ft.
SmartHome.com has the adapters also.

I would be willing to bet the farm that someone, somewhere, has a similar story involving a lead technician for D*. A real hotshot who knows everything there is to know about satellite TV... Maybe their next-door neighbor, a brother-in-law or (gasp) maybe their spouse? :eek:


As D* does not have its own employees for field techs, I would say this is impossible.

As D* does not have its own employees for field techs, I would say this is impossible.HDTVFanAtic,

I just hope that you weren't seriously suggesting that because you have an inside connection and get extra-special, preferential treatment --- that this is in any way relevant to how D*'s customer support rates.

I thought we were originally discussing telephone customer support, not which company has the best field techs? If that's what we are talking about then you are probably dead-on correct. D* field technician service is quite possibly some of the worst I've ever encountered. Do they even train those clowns? ;) But seriously, it doesn't seem fair or reasonable to compare your experiences with field techs and those of the "common man". You are definitely in a most enviable position.

I just hope you send your buddy a nice Christmas present every year... :D

And, if one has the opinion that D* has horrible customer service --- they have every right in the world to their opinion and to express it. All that I am saying is that in my opinion, D*'s telephone customer service is better than most companies. Way better...

As a matter of fact, the last few times I've called the good folks (CSRs) at Comcast --- I have to wonder if perhaps I dialed the wrong number. It's too bad that I don't have an inside connection there... :)

Well I've been having constant breakup on my local HD chanels. Only the mpeg4 stations off sat 103. Tech came out again(2nd time in 3 weeks). D** told him this has been an increasing problem. D** wanted to know the h20 model#, dish type and present software. Tech told me they don't know what the problem is. They might first switch out all the problem receivers. Currently I have the 2 h20 600's. If that doesn't work then they might try switching dishes. The tech said he had 3 appointments today in the chicago area about this, and many more last week. Anybody else hears about this problem or what it could be?

HDTVFanAtic,

I just hope that you weren't seriously suggesting that because you have an inside connection and get extra-special, preferential treatment --- that this is in any way relevant to how D*'s customer support rates.

I thought we were originally discussing telephone customer support, not which company has the best field techs? If that's what we are talking about then you are probably dead-on correct. D* field technician service is quite possibly some of the worst I've ever encountered. Do they even train those clowns? ;) But seriously, it doesn't seem fair or reasonable to compare your experiences with field techs and those of the "common man". You are definitely in a most enviable position.

I just hope you send your buddy a nice Christmas present every year... :D

And, if one has the opinion that D* has horrible customer service --- they have every right in the world to their opinion and to express it. All that I am saying is that in my opinion, D*'s telephone customer service is better than most companies. Way better...

As a matter of fact, the last few times I've called the good folks (CSRs) at Comcast --- I have to wonder if perhaps I dialed the wrong number. It's too bad that I don't have an inside connection there... :)

You might want to click here and re-read what the original statement was:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7825610&&#post7825610

And my response is, yes, i do get better service out of cable.

Now, lets also talk about how I tried to activate another Sattellite receiver. Whoops...they want you to have a new card so I wait close to a week for a new card to be sent - at a cost that I don't even want to go into.

So I called today to activate it...one thing lead to another - and finally 3.5 hours of my weekend - yes, 3.5 hours - wasted on hold with with no nothing CSRs and phone systems that disconnect you upon transferring so you must call back in queue blah blah blah blah.

For cable, the average human goes to a local shop in or near a strip mall, picks up a box that is activated then - or calls when the plug it in at their house and it's already working or is activated in minutes - and you did not have to pay for the box or the card in it.

Tell me again how Satellite customer service is better?

Well I've been having constant breakup on my local HD chanels. Only the mpeg4 stations off sat 103. Tech came out again(2nd time in 3 weeks). D** told him this has been an increasing problem. D** wanted to know the h20 model#, dish type and present software. Tech told me they don't know what the problem is. They might first switch out all the problem receivers. Currently I have the 2 h20 600's. If that doesn't work then they might try switching dishes. The tech said he had 3 appointments today in the chicago area about this, and many more last week. Anybody else hears about this problem or what it could be?

It's not your Dish.

This is a Discussion Board for the H20 Directv Receiver only.
This Forum is not for any other issues, please keep to the topic.

You might want to click here and re-read what the original statement was:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7825610&&#post7825610

And my response is, yes, i do get better service out of cable.

Now, lets also talk about how I tried to activate another Sattellite receiver. Whoops...they want you to have a new card so I wait close to a week for a new card to be sent - at a cost that I don't even want to go into.

So I called today to activate it...one thing lead to another - and finally 3.5 hours of my weekend - yes, 3.5 hours - wasted on hold with with no nothing CSRs and phone systems that disconnect you upon transferring so you must call back in queue blah blah blah blah.

For cable, the average human goes to a local shop in or near a strip mall, picks up a box that is activated then - or calls when the plug it in at their house and it's already working or is activated in minutes - and you did not have to pay for the box or the card in it.

Tell me again how Satellite customer service is better?
I don't think I am supposed to discuss anything here EXCEPT the H20, but...

I thought it all started when Sullender stated in a previous (#3109) message : "Bottom line - D*'s support is absolutely HIDEOUS. But at least now my TV works. One day when cable gets Sunday Ticket - I'M GONE."

At any rate, your "mileage" clearly varies from mine. Maybe my mileage is an anomaly, but the fact that you have a good chum who is the lead tech at your cable company who gives you special (preferential) treatment makes me wonder if you might not be slightly biased in favor of cable?

Maybe not... I really don't care one way or the other. But, if you want to be "FAIR" I believe that you would have to say that both cable and D* have a lot of room to improve their customer service? That is, unless you know the lead tech for your cable company. :)

I'm not sure but it sounds like JDOHIO is a little upset with me? So, to make Barney Fife happy, I'll add that my DirecTV H20-100 receiver is doing a great job. (Lighten up JD, it's just a forum thread...) :D

They have no idea how to fix the problem in Chicago!!! I spoke to a guy at Directv who said engenering is looking into it. They thought it was the receiver, but it happens on both the 600 and 100 series. Its a mess they better fix quick or people will go to cable for HDTV.

Apex has no clue how to fix it, it is out of their hands. Don't even waste your time, just call directv!!! Tell them its not going to help sending Apex out. Trust me. They sent me the most senior tech and even spoke to the GM. They repointed the dish and thought they could fix it. I kept telling them they could not. They tried new wires, I said waste of time signal is high.

Guess what I was right, they could not fix it.

I've been using a samsung hdtv unit and I'm planning to add the H20 in another room will it work with the same satellite dish? or I need to upgrade the dish also?I will eventually upgrade the dish to the 5lnb so I can get the 4mp signal but for meanwhile I was just wondering if this unit will work with my current dish.
Thanks

Obviously I could be totally wrong, but I think that anyone who acquires and activates a H20 receiver after February 28, 2006 is "officially" leasing it and the monthly fee on additional receivers (if any) is a lease fee not a mirroring fee.

Insisting upon Buying INSTEAD OF Leasing a H20 receiver makes ABSOLUTELY no sense to me at all! How can anyone now "own" a "newly" acquired H20? Especially since failing to subscribe to a Total Choice package "may" result in D* charging you a $150 penalty fee... And, if you do subscribe but cancel before 24-months, there's a $300 prorated fee. Hmmm, I wonder if either ever actually happens? Not that I want to personally find out! :eek:



Need input from the group -- if I buy a H20 from an authorized dealer -- and I can -- will I be able to get the box activated WITHOUT having to make a programming commitment?

I'm in a unique situation. I am grandfathered in having only Sunday Ticket and no other programming. I want to keep that situation but upgrade to HD. If I can buy the box and add SuperFan without adding any programming or a 2 year commitment, it would be great.

Any thoughts or suggestions appreciated.

claumich --

The H20 will work with your current dish. Mine does and is fed from the original oval dish I installed in 1994. It will not provide satellite HD, unless your antenna receives the 3 "current" birds however. For me, that is not a loss since I use OTA for HD.

Need input from the group -- if I buy a H20 from an authorized dealer -- and I can -- will I be able to get the box activated WITHOUT having to make a programming commitment?

I'm in a unique situation. I am grandfathered in having only Sunday Ticket and no other programming. I want to keep that situation but upgrade to HD. If I can buy the box and add SuperFan without adding any programming or a 2 year commitment, it would be great.

Any thoughts or suggestions appreciated.Hi CincySaint,

AFAIK, D* requires everyone activating a H20 receiver to sign-up for the $9.99 HD package and also agree to a 24-month contract to subscribe to their Total Choice package. I'm not sure why you think your grandfathered-in situation would alter that. But you're right, it would be great if they did. There's no harm in asking? :)

And, no, you cannot BUY a H20 receiver. Read the D* small print. It's totally unambiguous. Fact is, the last time you could buy a H20 receiver was prior to March 1, 2006. It's the NEW way that D* is operating. If your "dealer" (authorized or not) is telling you that you'll "own" the receiver then he is simply wrong. But, you needn't believe me. Why not go straight to the horse's mouth and ask D*? While you have them on the phone you can also check into your "unique situation".

CincySaint --

Have to respectfully disagree with TechnoFobe on the HD package. Haven't checked recently, but at least through the end of May, the HD package was an "optional" programming package, not required for activating an H20. I bought & activated mine in Dec - D* didn't even mention the HD package (and I didn't ask!). He is right about the 2 year commitment, tho, on new activations. But in some cases, even that is waived.

Suspect D* will take the position that changing from Sunday Ticket to SuperFan is a programming change and NOT covered by your grandfather clause. They will likely require you to take minimum programming subscription. You might even have a hard time keeping the grandfater status even with a change to the new receiver without a change in programming. They needed "supervisor approval" for activation without an additional commitment by me when I replaced a10 year old receiver (SD) after it died a couple of years ago.

Have to respectfully disagree with TechnoFobe on the HD package. Haven't checked recently, but at least through the end of May, the HD package was an "optional" programming package, not required for activating an H20.
Carl,

I'm sure you're correct now that you mention it. When I activated my new H20 back in February I opted to get the national HD channels (first three months free ---then $9.99 per month afterwards) but I remember (now) that the CSR told me that I could even cancel the national channels after the optional free-three-months if I wanted to. I didn't cancel at the end of the "free" period --- even though I don't watch them a lot. The way I see it, the more HD programming that I receive --- the better. :)

I do feel CincySaint's pain though. Sounds like he gets his "normal" HD programming from cable or OTA and only keeps D* to be able to receive the NFL Sunday Ticket. Now if he wants to get Sunday Ticket in HD --- D* might want him to pay for Total Choice programming (that he doesn't want or need?). I'd guess that D*'s subscription requirement is profit motivated and I can understand that. They need to make a profit just like I do... Isn't capitalism great? :) However, this really seems like a good case for allowing an exception to their rules? The whole business with having to get SuperFan in order to get Sunday Ticket in HD seems pretty crappy to me, and I don't even subscribe to Sunday Ticket any longer.

Guess that when you have a lock (monopoly) on the Sunday Ticket package then you can do pretty much as you please regarding pricing and other requirements?

I cancelled my ST a few years ago just because I get enough NFL from the networks to satisfy my football=junky habit... Thankfully! ;)

But, I'm hoping that he gets a break... Grandfathers are cool after all. :cool:

And, no, you cannot BUY a H20 receiver. Read the D* small print. It's totally unambiguous. Fact is, the last time you could buy a H20 receiver was prior to March 1, 2006. It's the NEW way that D* is operating. If your "dealer" (authorized or not) is telling you that you'll "own" the receiver then he is simply wrong. But, you needn't believe me. Why not go straight to the horse's mouth and ask D*? While you have them on the phone you can also check into your "unique situation".

just got the h20 last week (chicago area). d* told me originally that i had no choice but to lease or buy the box retail for $349. told them i could own the box outright by purchasing from newegg. rep then paused and said they are also running another deal where i could OWN the h20 and get an at9 dish installed for $99 and a 2yr commitment. no lease. i pointed out that this was the exact same deal they first offered me, without the lease. rep agreed. maybe they'll end up reneging and sneaking in a lease fee later, but either way, it appears that it's incorrect to say that you can't own the box outright since they offered it for $349.

NOTICE...This this thread is not for billing issues with DirecTV or costs/prices paid. It is a thread on the hardware. Please be so kind to keep it as such.

Thank you

Reminder Please

Please see post 2581 (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7527004&&#post7527004) by moderator David Bott.

Quick question. I have 2 DirecTV HDTV receivers (IRecent Hughes and a Samsung model) and I'm moving from Jacksonville (which doesn't have local HD available) to Detroit area (which does have local HD available), will DirecTV swap out the boxes for a H20's?

Otherwise, these old receivers are almost worthless to me if they can't pull in the local HD channels.

i just received a replacement h20 box from D* because the old h10 i bought from them has started to freeze from time to time. Now this new receiver that took D* over 3 hours and 8 calls to active is now behaving like a crazy dog. it keeps telling me that it wants to change to channel 101 to update configuration or something every hour. this receiver sucks @ RF signals it actually does not respond when using RF and does not have a code for my olevia 32".


Is there any other HD receiver on the market other than the H20?

should i ask D* for another replacement?

thx!

im sorry to post again but is it true that the new 5 lnb antennas weight about 70 lbs? i live in a nyc apartment top floor but for some reason our landlord doesnt want any antenas in the roof so we all have or birds installed in our back windows
do u think the new 5 lnb is too big to be installed on my window?

thx again

I would say your H20 has a problem. Definitly request another one. The H20 is the only MPEG4 receiver available right now so you dont have too many choices. Regarding the dish weight, the AT9 weighs 30 something (I dont remember exactly) but it is nowhere near 70 lbs

im sorry to post again but is it true that the new 5 lnb antennas weight about 70 lbs? i live in a nyc apartment top floor but for some reason our landlord doesnt want any antenas in the roof so we all have or birds installed in our back windows
do u think the new 5 lnb is too big to be installed on my window?

thx again
So this is how Urban Legends are started....70 lbs.???? :rolleyes:

The AT-9 Dish being used for MPEG4 reception is 37 lbs. - no lightweight, but half of what you thought.

DirecTV is also coming out (very soon) with a 25 lb (or so) version (as some installers don't want to try to bring the 37 lb version up the ladder to home rooftops).

Regardless of which version, you'll want to make sure you have a secure location to mount this Dish (as any dish requires).

Loudlife,

I just installed an h20 in my bedroom for my 2nd HD setup.It does need to switch to channel 101 to update the software in the unit.It will take a while ,but let it do the update.

Loudlife,

I just installed an h20 in my bedroom for my 2nd HD setup.It does need to switch to channel 101 to update the software in the unit.It will take a while ,but let it do the update.


Is that why I always have to add 101 to my favorites? Its CD USA but it never keeps it as a favorite. hmm..

Actually this is not true. When new software is ready to download it will come to you [usually early am] even if your stb is turned off. What ch: your on has nothing to do with it. When your box is turned off its really not off.

Reminder Please

Please see [[...] by moderator David Bott.

um ok, just responding to a comment about whether the H20 could be owned vs leased. i mentioned pricing only to illustrate that i was given an option to buy or lease. apologies.

on hopefully a more relevant note, regarding the H20: i never plugged in my prior receivers (most recently the sony HD300) to a phone line. the H20 installer insisted i keep it plugged in to get firmware updates. i recall the HD300 got its updates via satellite even without the phone line. anyone know if i can, or cannot, unplug?

um ok, just responding to a comment about whether the H20 could be owned vs leased. i mentioned pricing only to illustrate that i was given an option to buy or lease. apologies.

on hopefully a more relevant note, regarding the H20: i never plugged in my prior receivers (most recently the sony HD300) to a phone line. the H20 installer insisted i keep it plugged in to get firmware updates. i recall the HD300 got its updates via satellite even without the phone line. anyone know if i can, or cannot, unplug?

All software updates come through the dish.

Unplug it if you wish. It will be one less path for lightning to get to your equipment. It downloads nothing, and only uploads billing info on PPVs you've watched and other stuff about your viewing habits to D* (unless you OPT-OUT at the D* web site).

D* does not enforce their phone line rule, but D* installers are pressured into telling you anything it takes to get you to connect the phone line. Here's an article (http://www.consumeraffairs.com/news04/2006/05/directv_contractors.html) about a recent "phone line" lawsuit in Florida.

just got the h20 last week (chicago area). d* told me originally that i had no choice but to lease or buy the box retail for $349. told them i could own the box outright by purchasing from newegg. rep then paused and said they are also running another deal where i could OWN the h20 and get an at9 dish installed for $99 and a 2yr commitment. no lease. i pointed out that this was the exact same deal they first offered me, without the lease. rep agreed. maybe they'll end up reneging and sneaking in a lease fee later, but either way, it appears that it's incorrect to say that you can't own the box outright since they offered it for $349.sscho,

Without discussing any pricing and in regards to obtaining the H20 HARDWARE, you have been misinformed regarding owning DirecTV equipment. As you might have figured out, whoever the CSR you spoke with at D* didn't have a clue about much of anything. Sadly, it is not all that uncommon to encounter a D* employee who provides customers with incorrect information. The fact is that the entire subject of D*'s switching from an ownership to leased equipment basis is truly confusing. When I was ordering my H20 and asking questions about it, one CSR told me that he had no idea what the whole leasing deal involved. No one had explained it to him.

The confusion seems to mainly lie with the basic definitions and meanings of "owning" vs. "leasing" their receivers. DirecTV itself is pretty muddy on the subject. How does the new leasing scheme affect people who previously bought and own their receivers? They refer to "mixed households" when people have receivers purchased before the lease program began on 3/1/2006 and also have receivers which were acquired after the 3/1/2006 date.

And then there are the real questions: Who really cares whether the receiver is owned or leased? And why would anyone even care if their H20 receiver is leased instead of owned?

To confuse things even more, the dish itself is "owned" by you. If a LNB fails you have to buy a new one. Maybe?

If you think about it, the H20 is basically just a big brick unless you subscribe to D* programming... And leased H20 receivers have a free-replacement guarantee if (or when?) it ever fails. Not an insignificant factor? Far better than the 3-month warranty on "owned" receivers...

But, if you want to believe that you own your newly acquired receiver --- by all means go right ahead. It's a free country. :)

I'm skeptical of everything --- on the internet, especially. But you might be interested to read the post at this link: http://www.satelliteguys.us/showpost.php?p=449256&postcount=17

Or don't... :D

I sincerely hope this post qualifies as being a discussion regarding the H20 equipment. I definitely do not want to break any forum rules.

And I guess that people will believe what they want to believe? :)

Have not gone back to see if this was said already, but newegg NO LONGER handles DirecTV equipment. Looks as though they only continued to sell out the eixsting owned inventory they had from prior to March1.

They are not a DirecTV source any longer.

techofobe,

certainly possible that i was misinformed, although i tried to be as clear as possible about the distinction. regarding whether i should care whether i'm leasing or not, and whether leasing might be better since i get equipment replacement: the main difference is whether i'm paying that $5 /month "rent" for essentially an extended warranty on the H20. sounds on the face of it like a decent deal, but i have three unused obselete but functional receivers that tell me otherwise. the value proposition would be very different if i were paying MORE upfront to own the receiver, but if i'm paying exactly the same, i'm willing to keep the $5/month going forward on the assumption that my H20 will be replaced with an upgrade before it breaks, esp with no mechanical parts and routine free firmware upgrades.


But, if you want to believe that you own your newly acquired receiver --- by all means go right ahead. It's a free country. :)

i hear you but a lease with no payments is the same as ownership to me when there's no residual value either way (since it's not like i would resell the H20 if i ever disconnected the service).

...

thanks dg28 and arxaw on your response about the downloads. i know the upgrades come by dish; i was wondering if d* now requires some sort of feedback by phone line before they allow your H20 receiver to accept an upgrade. sounds like this is not the case.

But you might be interested to read the post at this link: [...]


interesting. so i am getting a $0 lease. so the rep very explicitly lied -- er, misinformed -- me on the phone. pretty interesting with that whole setup with the other offer to own for $349. bizarro. as you said, probably better this way since i should get free replacement under a lease. wonder if my wife unwittingly signed a lease at the time of install? what a clever and highly efficient covert operation! :)

interesting. so i am getting a $0 lease. so the rep very explicitly lied -- er, misinformed -- me on the phone. pretty interesting with that whole setup with the other offer to own for $349. bizarro. as you said, probably better this way since i should get free replacement under a lease. wonder if my wife unwittingly signed a lease at the time of install? what a clever and highly efficient covert operation! :)I "bought" my H20 on February 28th. Had trouble with it right off the bat. Rebooted endlessly when connected thru my Denon 4306 using HDMI. About a week after it was installed D* sent me a new receiver (-100 model to replace the original -600 model). It has worked fine! Very happy with it.

After reading a post here about the leasing/buying snafu with D* I checked my bill online and sure enough --- the receiver was listed as being a leased unit. Some people called D* when this happened to them and had the status changed back. I didn't bother. I'm perfectly happy leasing my receiver. As you mentioned --- it really does seem to be six of one and half a dozen of the other... :)

The worst thing anyone can probably do is call D* support and ask a question that the CSR doesn't know the answer to. This pretty much covers all questions? :D (Just kidding, sort of)

I've found that when they don't know an answer --- they make one up. Sometimes changing it a few times during a single phone call. Which is where AVSforum is a savior. There's some misinformation here, but also a LOT of good information and helpful people. Yeah Rah, AVSforum! :cool: I've gotten a truck-load of help here!!!

You almost need to be an attorney to really figure this out. And I'd guess a lot of attorneys would be mystified too? Gotta read the fine print and then hope you interpret it correctly? :)

I "bought" my H20 on February 28th. Had trouble with it right off the bat. Rebooted endlessly when connected thru my Denon 4306 using HDMI. About a week after it was installed D* sent me a new receiver (-100 model to replace the original -600 model). It has worked fine! Very happy with it.

After reading a post here about the leasing/buying snafu with D* I checked my bill online and sure enough --- the receiver was listed as being a leased unit. Some people called D* when this happened to them and had the status changed back. I didn't bother. I'm perfectly happy leasing my receiver. As you mentioned --- it really does seem to be six of one and half a dozen of the other... :)

The worst thing anyone can probably do is call D* support and ask a question that the CSR doesn't know the answer to. This pretty much covers all questions? :D (Just kidding, sort of)

I've found that when they don't know an answer --- they make one up. Sometimes changing it a few times during a single phone call. Which is where AVSforum is a savior. There's some misinformation here, but also a LOT of good information and helpful people. Yeah Rah, AVSforum! :cool: I've gotten a truck-load of help here!!!

You almost need to be an attorney to really figure this out. And I'd guess a lot of attorneys would be mystified too? Gotta read the fine print and then hope you interpret it correctly? :)

I have the exact same story. Bought a 600 unit @ Costco a week or so before the March 1 deadline commencing the "sale" of "leased units. I had nothing but problems with the 600, & finally after about a dozen calls to DTV's tech support, I was offered a replacement unit, which gladly turned out to be a 100 . . . with no problems.

About a 1 or 2 after receiving the 100, I rec'd a letter from DTV informing me that my replacement unit was "leased." This was never disclosed to me at the time they offered a replacement.

At this point in time, whether I own my H20 or lease it is not a big deal to me. But if it were, there are a lot of problems with what DTV. I bought my original unit, & it comes with certain manufacturers warranties. If it is determined to be a "defective" product, there are many legal remedies available that would support the manufacturer replacing the unit . . . at no cost. [BTW, FYI, I am an attorney]

DTV, obviously, has used the replacement of a defective receiver as an opportunity to now categorize the new receiver as leased equipment rather than as subscriber-owned. As u advise another forum member, let DTV categorize the receiver however they wish so long as it results in no further cost to the subscriber. However, I would advise, that at some point in the future, should the subscriber take advantage of DTV's free upgrade, or replacement of the equipment beyond the manufacturer's original warranty, then a stronger argument may be made that the equipment is leased.

Bottom line, so long as DTV takes care of the subscriber's equipment, I wouldn't make a big deal how it is characterized. I would think that the only downside to the "lease," is that if a sub terminates his subscription with DTV, he has to return his equipment, hopefully @ DTV's cost, not the sub's. By imposing the lease, I believe DTV is gaining greater control over its equipment. It does not want its equipment, particularly those "out-of-service" from getting into the hands of sophisticated hackers, who will then be able to pirate the service. Of course, the lease strategy is not full-proof, but IMHO is aimed to severely reduce those possibilities.

My focus is more on the HD-DVR, the HR20-250, which is not covered in this particular thread. Even though this equipment will be "leased," rumor is that the upfront payment will be substantial, practically equivalent to the purchase price. U might hear more rumblings when this unit is released & terms of the "lease" are disclosed. In contrast to leasing a car, where the upfront payment is a small % of the purchase price, u might hear some arguing that if the upfront payment on the HD DVR is so substantial that it's equivalent to the purchase price, u might find some merit, should a dispute arise, in the argument that the unit was purchased & not leased to the sub. My guess is that DTV will argue that the unit, for example, if sold, would be priced @ $1,000, but we're leasing it to our subs with an upfront payment of $500, with monthly lease payments of $10/mo, including the DVR service. Figure, after 5 years, the lease term, theoretically would terminate, & the sub would own the unit. But, by that time, I'm sure that DTV would have furnished, free of charge, an upgraded unit.

CincySaint --

Have to respectfully disagree with TechnoFobe on the HD package. Haven't checked recently, but at least through the end of May, the HD package was an "optional" programming package, not required for activating an H20. I bought & activated mine in Dec - D* didn't even mention the HD package (and I didn't ask!). He is right about the 2 year commitment, tho, on new activations. But in some cases, even that is waived.

Suspect D* will take the position that changing from Sunday Ticket to SuperFan is a programming change and NOT covered by your grandfather clause. They will likely require you to take minimum programming subscription. You might even have a hard time keeping the grandfater status even with a change to the new receiver without a change in programming. They needed "supervisor approval" for activation without an additional commitment by me when I replaced a10 year old receiver (SD) after it died a couple of years ago.

Carl,

I do feel CincySaint's pain though. Sounds like he gets his "normal" HD programming from cable or OTA and only keeps D* to be able to receive the NFL Sunday Ticket. Now if he wants to get Sunday Ticket in HD --- D* might want him to pay for Total Choice programming (that he doesn't want or need?). I'd guess that D*'s subscription requirement is profit motivated and I can understand that. They need to make a profit just like I do... Isn't capitalism great? :) However, this really seems like a good case for allowing an exception to their rules? The whole business with having to get SuperFan in order to get Sunday Ticket in HD seems pretty crappy to me, and I don't even subscribe to Sunday Ticket any longer.

But, I'm hoping that he gets a break... Grandfathers are cool after all. :cool:

Gentlemen:

Just want to express my appreciation for your thoughts and to report to the group on the outcome so if anyone finds themself in the same situation that they will know what's up.

Carl was correct -- the H20 hardware was not the issue. D* would require me to upgrade to at least Total Choice becuase adding Superfan is considered an upgrade (even though HD was not a separate offer and free in its first year on ST).

I am not willing to give up real HD, more locals, and excellent high speed internet from TWC to get ST in HD so I'm stuck with SD. As Techofobe pointed out, it's a monopoly so all one can do is make your choices. I've made mine.

I am in Miami and every time i go to OTA 17-1 my h20 reboots. I have 3 receivers and all do the same. Additionally, my dad also in Miami has gone through 3 h20's and has the same problem. It only happens on that channel, no others. Seems like some inherent problem. Have others had same issues? I also made a post in local hdtv section of forum.

Originally Posted by rsecpa:
I am in Miami and every time i go to OTA 17-1 my h20 reboots.

The H20 is notorious for being very unforgiving for an OTA with errors in their PSIP (Program and System Information Protocol). Since you have the problem with only 17-1, suspect they are the problem, not the H20. Don't know if calling their engineers, telling them your symptoms and asking they check the PSIP would do any good, though,

Carl

I am in Miami and every time i go to OTA 17-1 my h20 reboots. I have 3 receivers and all do the same. Additionally, my dad also in Miami has gone through 3 h20's and has the same problem. It only happens on that channel, no others. Seems like some inherent problem. Have others had same issues? I also made a post in local hdtv section of forum.


I know this isnt the forum and apologize....but has Miami gone live yet? I believe it was scheduled sometime around now?

Can you please look in the dishpointing setup and see what transponder you see active with number on them on SAT99 and SAT103.

If Miami isn't live, it has to be close and I am curious what the spotbeam looks like for it.

I know this isnt the forum and apologize....but has Miami gone live yet? I believe it was scheduled sometime around now?

Can you please look in the dishpointing setup and see what transponder you see active with number on them on SAT99 and SAT103.

If Miami isn't live, it has to be close and I am curious what the spotbeam looks like for it.
Check this thread over at SatelliteGuys (http://www.satelliteguys.us/showthread.php?t=64791).

Miami goes live Wednesday along with the rest of the D* "due in June" list. Dont know if we get a RSN on July 1st or not. Either way, should be an exciting week!

I posted earlier in this thread,that I had just activated an H20 in my bedroom(have an H10 in my HT).Activating it through D was very quick and easy.That was the only easy part of the deal.

The csr I spoke to told me I had to get the new 5 lnb dish installed NOW to recieve my locals in HD on the new reciever(a pure lie,more on that later).

So,the local install guys had an appointment from 1 to 5 yesterday.The first guy shows up at 5:30,and says the other guy stopped to get the new dish.He installs the new wiring for my bedroom H20(it was hooked up to my old 3 lnb dish and working fine with mpeg2).

An hour later ,6:30, and the guy with the dish still isnt here.I ask the 1st guy where the dish is,he calls the other guy and he shows up 15 minutes later.

They install the new dish were the old dish was mounted,and at 7:45 tell me they cant get a signal from the 119 sat(my 3 lnb got a signal from the 119 sat in the same spot).At 8:30,with the dish installed in a new location,they still cant get a signal from 119 sat.
By 9:00 a supervisor has shown up and still,theres problems.I tell the sup,its late ,why dont you guys come back tomorrow and finish.He says no,they'ed like to finish now,i say ok.
By 9:30,its finally working and I notice,my local HD's are still not coming from the sat ,but from my antenna.I ask the supervisor and he says,ya the locals in HD wont be on D until earliest sept.
I call D the next morning and talk to customer resolution about the locals in HD thing and complain about the"need the new dish now "story from the csr.

To make an already long story shorter,my 2 year commitment is canceled(been with D more then 7 years).I like D and have no plans to cancel but,a story like this makes staying with them harder and harder each time it happens.

I posted earlier in this thread,that I had just activated an H20 in my bedroom(have an H10 in my HT).Activating it through D was very quick and easy.That was the only easy part of the deal.

The csr I spoke to told me I had to get the new 5 lnb dish installed NOW to recieve my locals in HD on the new reciever(a pure lie,more on that later).

So,the local install guys had an appointment from 1 to 5 yesterday.The first guy shows up at 5:30,and says the other guy stopped to get the new dish.He installs the new wiring for my bedroom H20(it was hooked up to my old 3 lnb dish and working fine with mpeg2).

An hour later ,6:30, and the guy with the dish still isnt here.I ask the 1st guy where the dish is,he calls the other guy and he shows up 15 minutes later.

They install the new dish were the old dish was mounted,and at 7:45 tell me they cant get a signal from the 119 sat(my 3 lnb got a signal from the 119 sat in the same spot).At 8:30,with the dish installed in a new location,they still cant get a signal from 119 sat.
By 9:00 a supervisor has shown up and still,theres problems.I tell the sup,its late ,why dont you guys come back tomorrow and finish.He says no,they'ed like to finish now,i say ok.
By 9:30,its finally working and I notice,my local HD's are still not coming from the sat ,but from my antenna.I ask the supervisor and he says,ya the locals in HD wont be on D until earliest sept.
I call D the next morning and talk to customer resolution about the locals in HD thing and complain about the"need the new dish now "story from the csr.

To make an already long story shorter,my 2 year commitment is canceled(been with D more then 7 years).I like D and have no plans to cancel but,a story like this makes staying with them harder and harder each time it happens.

I'm thinking your solution might just be easier than you think (it happened to me in January). Go back through the satellite setup on the H20 - make sure you set it for the 5lnb dish (my installers set it by mistake to triple dish). Unless this is done correctly, you will NOT get the MPEG4 channels or see them in the guide. Give it a try, I believe it will work for you, the HD locals ARE on in your area!

"I'm thinking your solution might just be easier than you think (it happened to me in January). Go back through the satellite setup on the H20 - make sure you set it for the 5lnb dish (my installers set it by mistake to triple dish). Unless this is done correctly, you will NOT get the MPEG4 channels or see them in the guide. Give it a try, I believe it will work for you, the HD locals ARE on in your area!"

Already done.They arent on D yet.I checked with D and yep,its a later in the year story.I get the west coast networks on the sat,but the locals ,not yet.

To make an already long story shorter, my 2 year commitment is canceled (been with D more then 7 years). I like D and have no plans to cancel but, a story like this makes staying with them harder and harder each time it happens.Cruzin,

What exactly do you mean when you say that your "2 year commitment is canceled"?

Did you cancel your D* service entirely or did D* waive their 2-year contract requirement for you?

Your experience with D* installers (unfortunately) sounds pretty much typical... And the misinformation you got from the D* CSR is par for the course. The good thing is that hopefully you won't have to dance with D* again until they get your locals in Mpeg4 ready to go. You might want to take some mood-altering drugs when the time for that is near. :D

On a scale from 1 to 10 how would you rate your frustration factor right now? :rolleyes:

"Did you cancel your D* service entirely or did D* waive their 2-year contract requirement for you?"

D waived the 2 year contract.I'm still with them.

"On a scale from 1 to 10 how would you rate your frustration factor right now?"

I've "simmered,and calmed down" a bit since the latest install.I would guess,about a 4,although I will find it hard to recommend D to my friends at this point.One of the things that keeps me with D,is the fact that Adelphia(cable company) in my area has the worst customer satisfaction in a poll done of LA cable companies.

I'm finally going to take the plunge. I'm a bit confused and hope to get some insight.

I want to upgrade to a HD DVR. I live in Jersey and get NY Locals. Should I order up the H10-250 or wait for the H20-250? I hear from some of these posts that, with some haggling, I may be able to work out some magic deal for the H10-250 (not a ST sub).

1. If I order the H10-250, which dish should I request/demand they install in order to insure I have the latest equipment?

2. Do I need the off air ant (I'm about 60 miles from NYC).

3. Would I be able to record my locals with the H10-250?

4. What benefits would I get if I waited for the H20-250?

5. If I ordered the H10-250, any idea what DTV plans on doing to upgrade their HD customers if they want the H20-250? My concern is when the H20-250 finally does come out, I'm sure the lease deal will be in excess of $500. However, if I order the H10-250 now, the upgrade to the H20-250 may or may not be easier on the wallet

Thanks in advance for any help. Unfortunately, calling DTV and trying to get answers from a CSR that using the phrase "ummm....ummm" more than once in a conversation is enough to drive me crazy!!! :eek: :eek:

Check this thread over at SatelliteGuys (http://www.satelliteguys.us/showthread.php?t=64791).


Thanks for the advice....unfortunately look who started it :(

Miami goes live Wednesday along with the rest of the D* "due in June" list. Dont know if we get a RSN on July 1st or not. Either way, should be an exciting week!


Again, if its going live on Wednesday, please go to the Dish setup (assuming you have H20 and AT9) and tell me which transponders you have anything besides 0 and N/A in on SAT 99 and SAT103.

Believe me - it won't be more than you can count on 1 hand. Tampa has a grand total of 2 last time I checked - and they were both on 103.


EDIT: Just plugged in my H20 again for the first time in a month. Still only 2 transponders showing in TampaBay. #21 and #25 on Network14/103W. Still no signs of any life on Network11/99W in Florida.

That's actually no change for some time. If Miami is going live on Wednesday, either 1) The have an incredibily tight Spotbeam for South Florida that is not showing up here or 2) The will put them on the same transponders that have always shown up here 103W T21 and T25.

You seeing any signs of life on any other transponder Techopobe as you are 50+ miles further South than me.

I do know that Miami shared the same spotbeam as Atlanta with SD - and thus we this area was right in the middle - and could not end up getting either.

I have two H20 receivers. One of the receivers has the lockup/ Reset problem when watching OTA. It has this problem fairly often. I called Directv to tell them it was defective. The told me it is a compatability issue with my local broadcaster and they are working on an upgrade that will fix the problem. Then I thought about it, if that is the case why wouldn't both H20s have the problem. Is Directv selling me a bill of goods?

The phone line is not requred but many installers get a few bucks more to install the phone line. So that why.
Directv really want's to make you buy PPV. And it is an atempt to prevent pepole from using the box at another location they use the line to confirm its location. If they see its at two places they want to charge you for it.
I say who cares its your choise. Only dvrs requre a phone line. Although I belive it to can be overridded to not requre one.

Thanks for the advice....unfortunately look who started it :(




Again, if its going live on Wednesday, please go to the Dish setup (assuming you have H20 and AT9) and tell me which transponders you have anything besides 0 and N/A in on SAT 99 and SAT103.

Believe me - it won't be more than you can count on 1 hand. Tampa has a grand total of 2 last time I checked - and they were both on 103.


EDIT: Just plugged in my H20 again for the first time in a month. Still only 2 transponders showing in TampaBay. #21 and #25 on Network14/103W. Still no signs of any life on Network11/99W in Florida.

That's actually no change for some time. If Miami is going live on Wednesday, either 1) The have an incredibily tight Spotbeam for South Florida that is not showing up here or 2) The will put them on the same transponders that have always shown up here 103W T21 and T25.

You seeing any signs of life on any other transponder Techopobe as you are 50+ miles further South than me.

I do know that Miami shared the same spotbeam as Atlanta with SD - and thus we this area was right in the middle - and could not end up getting either.

http://www.tivofan.com/directv/channels.html

Again, if its going live on Wednesday, please go to the Dish setup (assuming you have H20 and AT9) and tell me which transponders you have anything besides 0 and N/A in on SAT 99 and SAT103.

You seeing any signs of life on any other transponder Techopobe as you are 50+ miles further South than me.
Just checked and I'm still seeing the same thing here: transponders 21 and 25 on sat103/net14 are active --- all others are not active. Nothing on sat99...

http://www.tivofan.com/directv/channels.html

Thanks again, but that is info for the SD Spotbeams, not the new SAT 99W/103W HD Spotbeams which are different.

Just checked and I'm still seeing the same thing here: transponders 21 and 25 on sat103/net14 are active --- all others are not active. Nothing on sat99...

Again, if anyone in Miami would check and tell us what transponder (or 2) you see any sign of life on (on 99W or 103W), it would be appreciated.

I have two H20 receivers. One of the receivers has the lockup/ Reset problem when watching OTA. It has this problem fairly often. I called Directv to tell them it was defective. The told me it is a compatability issue with my local broadcaster and they are working on an upgrade that will fix the problem. Then I thought about it, if that is the case why wouldn't both H20s have the problem. Is Directv selling me a bill of goods?

You must have gotten ahold of Brine!

But in all fairness, I should point out that I spent most of my week with Microsoft Techs on a service issue that I paid them hundred of dollars to solve an issue - and heard first hand second and third level techs from India give very wrong information that made a situation even worse instead of better while honestly costing 4-8 hours per each wrong answer going down the wrong path in trying to solve a critical issue. I literally called Monday night at 8pm and hung up the phone at 8pm on Friday night.

I have two H20 receivers. One of the receivers has the lockup/ Reset problem when watching OTA. It has this problem fairly often. I called Directv to tell them it was defective. The told me it is a compatability issue with my local broadcaster and they are working on an upgrade that will fix the problem. Then I thought about it, if that is the case why wouldn't both H20s have the problem. Is Directv selling me a bill of goods?
Apparently at least one of their CSRs tried to.

Call customer retention at 800 824-9081
Tell them that one of your H20s (the one that keeps rebooting) is TOO HOT TO TOUCH on top, you're afraid it may eventually cause a fire, and would like it replaced. Don't mention anything about rebooting.

They should send you a replacement receiver via FedEx, along with a prepaid return shipping label for the def one.

I just installed my h20 with new ku ka dish, when changing channels there is a loud buzzing noise but everything works fine when channel comes in, anyone have this problem?

I just installed my h20 with new ku ka dish, when changing channels there is a loud buzzing noise but everything works fine when channel comes in, anyone have this problem?Did you install a 5-LNB, AT-9 satellite dish? Where is the loud buzzing sound coming from? My H20 doesn't buzz whenever I change channels. At least, not that I have noticed...

Yes I have the at-9 dish, the noise comes from the tv between changing channels, there is nothing wrong with the tv, I have other things running off it. I am not sure what is causing it though. I know that all my sats do not have a signal, all I have now is 101, 103, and 119,.should I be picking up more, I am on the east coast though,

You should also be getting the 110° sat. Call D* back and report the hum and the lack of 110°.
Also, check and make sure they grounded your dish correctly (http://www.dbsinstall.com/whatis/Whatisgood-5.htm).

yes I am getting 110, 103 is low signal but the cable is grounded, I wouldn't think that not having a ground on the dish would cause this, the reciever is grounded when plugged in and it is connected to the dish?

Not having a ground shouldn't cause a hum, but an improperly grounded dish and coax may possibly cause a hum.

tried componet and it fixed the problem, DTV told me to use dvi for video and left and right for audio, sounds like there is a problem with the h20 and using hdmi

tried componet and it fixed the problem, DTV told me to use dvi for video and left and right for audio, sounds like there is a problem with the h20 and using hdmiWere you originally connecting audio to your TV's amplifier through a HDMI connection from your H20 to your TV?

Did you then get rid of the "loud buzzing noises" by connecting to your TV using the left & right audio outputs (red and white RCA type connections) from the H20?

Don't you have an A/V receiver? :eek:

yes I was just using hdmi from the h20 to the tv for audio and video, and using just a fiber to my home stereo. Connecting componet with left and right audio (red+white) fixed the problem thats why dtv wants me to use dvi for video and red+white for audio. There must be a flaw in the hdmi audio of the h20 ird.

Which H20 do you have, H20-100 or H20-600?
The H20-600 has an audio problem. Audio problems may occur if cables aren't plugged into the RCA L+R (analog stereo) audio out jacks.

I will check tonight on the model, is there a fix or will there be a fix maybe in an upgrade, I still get the buzz through hdmi with audio left and right connected, this sucks because I want to use hdmi and my tv does not have dvi for an alternative

I've gone back 2 months and don't see the answer--does the H20 come with a HDMI-HDMI cable or not? Somebody a couple months ago mentioned buying one for $40 from the installer. I'll get one on order from Monoprice in time for my July 5 install instead if that is the case--I'm not in a town where I can just run out and get one.

Part of the reason I even got this right now was to avoid having to buy a HDMI-DVI cable for my old Sammy HD box since my new Philips LCD is only HDMI.

I've gone back 2 months and don't see the answer--does the H20 come with a HDMI-HDMI cable or not? Somebody a couple months ago mentioned buying one for $40 from the installer. I'll get one on order from Monoprice in time for my July 5 install instead if that is the case--I'm not in a town where I can just run out and get one.

No. Just a component cable.

And from the looks of this thread it may be a crap shoot if I get a good HDMI unit anyway, so the cable may do me no good anyway ;). Thanks for the quick response though.

I have a SRT360 Samsung Reveiver. Except for the daily rebooting, it works well. I guess I am going to have to go to the H20. As far as I can tell, there are two features I won't have: 1) the coaxial digital output and 2) an inut for a cable signal. Both ahve been very valuable.

I did buy another Samsung on Ebay, but as I understand it 1) they all have the reboot problem and 2) if I use it I have to sign a longer con tract?

Is this true? Is it worth going to the H20?

Thanks for your help.

I have a SRT360 Samsung Reveiver. Except for the daily rebooting, it works well. I guess I am going to have to go to the H20. As far as I can tell, there are two features I won't have: 1) the coaxial digital output and 2) an inut for a cable signal. Both ahve been very valuable.

I did buy another Samsung on Ebay, but as I understand it 1) they all have the reboot problem and 2) if I use it I have to sign a longer con tract?

Scott, I have an H20 and a 360. The H20 PQ and OTA sensitivity is far superior to the 360. I actually thought the 360 was a good box until I got the H20.

1) I have had the 360, using the DVI output, for 3 years and it has never rebooted.

2) I am not sure what part of the country you are in but if you have MPEG4 capability they will lease the H20 for a minimal fee and give you a free install in return for a 2 year commitment. The only way I know to get around the commitment is to pay full price for your H20, and for your dish and install. You won't need the new dish however if you don't want MPEG4 locals. The old dish works with the H20 and the new dish works with the 360.

Scott, I have an H20 and a 360. The H20 PQ and OTA sensitivity is far superior to the 360. I actually thought the 360 was a good box until I got the H20.

1) I have had the 360, using the DVI output, for 3 years and it has never rebooted.

2) I am not sure what part of the country you are in but if you have MPEG4 capability they will lease the H20 for a minimal fee and give you a free install in return for a 2 year commitment. The only way I know to get around the commitment is to pay full price for your H20, and for your dish and install. You won't need the new dish however if you don't want MPEG4 locals. The old dish works with the H20 and the new dish works with the 360.

Thanks Bill....

I am in Columbus, Ohio. Should I fire up the used 360 I bought on E-Bay? Will that make my contract longer?

Thanks Bill....

I am in Columbus, Ohio. Should I fire up the used 360 I bought on E-Bay? Will that make my contract longer?

I am not aware of D* forcing a subscriber to extend a contract for a unit that they acquired and installed themselves. Maybe someone out there can verify otherwise. Any D* receiver bought on ebay is a crap shoot however. Caveat emptor.

Scott, I have an H20 and a 360. The H20 PQ and OTA sensitivity is far superior to the 360. I actually thought the 360 was a good box until I got the H20.

I felt exactly the same way. The H20 PQ is superior.....However, the TS360 was very good.

1) I have had the 360, using the DVI output, for 3 years and it has never rebooted. .

Lucky!!! The first 1.5 years I had this unit I had very few to no problems...then all of the sudden I had problem after problem. Freeze ups, random reboots, then it finally died. I bought another unit on Ebay and after a few weeks the same thing. Then I got the H10....what a POC. This was another Samsung "quality" product. I had freeze-ups after about 3-months. Last Samsung product I'll ever buy.

2) I am not sure what part of the country you are in but if you have MPEG4 capability they will lease the H20 for a minimal fee and give you a free install in return for a 2 year commitment. The only way I know to get around the commitment is to pay full price for your H20, and for your dish and install. You won't need the new dish however if you don't want MPEG4 locals. The old dish works with the H20 and the new dish works with the 360.

I'm wondering if locals are the only Mpeg-4 HD channels that D*tv will transmit? I'm not shelling out another penny for D*tv boxes. I have wasted enough money on these boxes. Does anyone know when D*tv will come out with MORE HD national programming? I was told by a rep and installer by mid-summer they should have 35 HD channels....OK,where are they? Sorry for the rant.

I am in Columbus, Ohio. Should I fire up the used 360 I bought on E-Bay? Will that make my contract longer?

You should be able to activate the box (if it's an existing line....switch out) with no extension.
If you can get locals via OTA then I would wait to see what Directv will do before you make a 2-year commitment on a new box. Also, if you activate a box you own there should be NO contract extension. But I would make sure by calling CS. I have activated boxes that I owned and never had to extend my contract. Now that they have the "lease thing" they may have changed it, but doubt it.

yes I was just using hdmi from the h20 to the tv for audio and video, and using just a fiber to my home stereo. Connecting componet with left and right audio (red+white) fixed the problem thats why dtv wants me to use dvi for video and red+white for audio. There must be a flaw in the hdmi audio of the h20 ird.You lost me...

If you have a "home stereo" --- are you connecting the H20's optical audio output into it via a toslink cable? Is that what you are calling a "fiber"? If so, why are you even bothering with connecting any audio to the TV from the H20?

I can't imagine that the audio with a TV would be any good compared with a decent home stereo / home theater system.

But maybe I am missing something obvious.

You can always connect the HDMI to the TV and just not use the audio. Right?

I guess I am going to have to go to the H20. As far as I can tell, there are two features I won't have: 1) the coaxial digital output and 2) an inut for a cable signal.
The H20 has optical audio (toslink) output.

When I watch movies or ppv events I use the stereo but when I am just watching regular tv I use the tv speakers, toslink cable is a fiber optic, I just say fiber for short, anyway the hdmi is still a problem with the h20

When I watch movies or ppv events I use the stereo but when I am just watching regular tv I use the tv speakers, toslink cable is a fiber optic, I just say fiber for short, anyway the hdmi is still a problem with the h20waukee,

As you have discovered in your situation the audio you derive using HDMI is less than stellar. Until the audio specs for HDMI are finished (assuming they ever will be) and HDMI is prevalent in receivers, I see little reason to be enamored. Unless you didn't have a receiver.

Why you wouldn't just use your receiver all the time seems somewhat curious to me, but then there are many things I just don't understand. :)

I have never wanted to use HDMI for audio so I simply can't say whether or not the problem you are having is caused by the H20, but it does seem as though that might well be the case? The "simplest" solution as compared to running DVI cables, etc --- would be to stop using the audio connection to your set OR utilize the analog audio via the RCA (red&white) cables. The quality using analog audio will not be superior, but then, the audio quality using your TV's amp and speakers is definitely not superior either.

Can you by any chance have your TV select to use the analog audio inputs INSTEAD of the HDMI? Then, at least, you could then keep your HDMI video connection and not have to deal with switching over to DVI. Or, maybe that's not an issue?

If I call directv and order an HD box (the H20) will they insist on an install or will they just ship it to me?

If they will ship the H20 box, how long will it take to get?

I get locals via OTA and the locals via the new 5lnb dish aren't available for Cincy, OH anyway, so I don't need an install.

Thanks!

PS: Anyone that has a directv H20 ever have a Sony HD300? I'm wondering how they compare in terms of picture quality?

No I can't select any features, my tv is not top of the line, but I am waiting on the samsung 5679w which is on order but will not be hear until Sept. they say, but I just wanted to resolve this issue with the H20. I could turn the tv volume all the way off and use my stereo but it is nice to turn the tv on without having to mess with the stereo to watch something that doesn't need stereo sound.

The H20 has optical audio (toslink) output.


It does, indeed, but my receiver only has a space left for Coaxial Digital Input :(

HD Locals got turned on here in Orlando today. I'm confused on a few points.

1 - I have tried both using the B-Band converter and not using it. I see no difference. I thought it was a requirement for HD lil to work.

2 - My H20 (600) guide is showing my channels in the following format: (NBC example)

2 : OR2 - this is the old Directv provided channel 2
2 : WESH - this is the new HD lil
2-1: WESHDT - this is my OTA channel

I thought the new HD lil would show 2-1 (just like OTA).

I know that OTA is probably my best option, but I really wanted to give the new HD lil a chance. We have some really big variances in volume on our different OTA channels, so again, I'm just in a try it out phase with the new HD lil.

I'm also noticing some periodic pixilization and sometimes the H20 is extremly slow to display a picture on the HD lil, once I have tuned to the channel.

Any comments are greatly appreciated.

It does, indeed, but my receiver only has a space left for Coaxial Digital Input :(Scott,

What else do you have connected to the optical audio inputs on your A/V receiver? I've had a few devices that could do either optical or coaxial audio output. Same digital quality using either one or the other... but you probably know all of this.

If you haven't already done so, check to see if one of the devices you have currently connected using optical (toslink) audio also has a coaxial audio output? If not, you will probably have to decide which device's audio is more important to have connected digitally. Or, manually juggle the connections. Ughhh. :(

Or you could always buy a new super-duper, high-priced A/V receiver since money is no object these days. Help the economy grow and prosper. :D

HD Locals got turned on here in Orlando today. I'm confused on a few points.

1 - I have tried both using the B-Band converter and not using it. I see no difference. I thought it was a requirement for HD lil to work.

2 - My H20 (600) guide is showing my channels in the following format: (NBC example)

2 : OR2 - this is the old Directv provided channel 2
2 : WESH - this is the new HD lil
2-1: WESHDT - this is my OTA channel

I thought the new HD lil would show 2-1 (just like OTA).

I know that OTA is probably my best option, but I really wanted to give the new HD lil a chance. We have some really big variances in volume on our different OTA channels, so again, I'm just in a try it out phase with the new HD lil.

I'm also noticing some periodic pixilization and sometimes the H20 is extremly slow to display a picture on the HD lil, once I have tuned to the channel.

Any comments are greatly appreciated.

Can you please go to the setup and look at the satellite strengths for the 99 and 103 birds in Orlando. Which Transponders do you have a signal on and what are the signals levels (it wont be more than 5 - most likely less).

To get there - press menu on remote - then:

setting
setup
Sat & Ant
View Signal Strength

Hit the + to go to SAT99 and SAT103 (there are 2 - the one where the screen dont have all N/A.

Let it check each tranpsonder.

Which of the 32 do you have signal on (and which bird). What signal level do you have.

99 (Network 10) - All n/a's
99 (Network 11) - Mostly 0's, rest n/a's
103 (Network 14) - Transponder 1 is 33, Trans 21 is 11, Trans 28 is 35, rest are 0's
103 (Network 15) - All n/a's

In Doral, Florida (West Miami) Zip - 33178

HD Locals came in early this morning. Havent seen too much HD content today so I cant comment on quality. Although there is a significant sound difference between the DTV Local (ex. MI10) and the HDLIL, with the HDLIL being much more muted. I can also hear an audio pop when changing channels.

Anyways, here are my signal stats. Taken during a light rain storm.

99-Net10 - All N/A
99-Net11 - 1-91, 11-92 and 17-95
103-Net14 - 1-83, 21-90, 25-88, 28-77
103-Net15 - All N/A

A bit off the main topic - For those of you with 720p sets, how do you have your resolutions set on your H20. I had mine native on with all resolutions selected and was pretty happy with image quality but just now got fed up with the channel changing delays.

I have a Samsung hlp5085w and just turned native off. I would love to hear from anyone with a similar setup to a 720p display. Are you passing 720p only or both 720p and 1080i.

(for Orlando)

Any update to my above post, I just ran it again, and NOW this is what I am getting:

99 (Network 10) - All n/a
99 (Network 11) - 1-14, 11-13, 17-17
103 (Network 14) - 1-40, 21-16, 25-13, 28-41
103 (Network 15) - All n/a

One other change: In my guide, the HD LIL is showing first, then the old, existing D* channel is showing second. This is a flip-flop from earlier today.

Orlando

99-Net11
0 and N/A

103-Net 14
T1 - 33
T21 - 11
T28 - 35



If those numbers are signal strength I am surprised you can view anything????

I have never seen a market where the primary beam does not have at least a 85 for the HD LIL and it appears the highest you are seeing is a 33 and a 35. You might have a serious alignment issue.


Miami
99-Net11
T1-91
T11-92
T17-95

103-Net14
T1-83
T21-11
T25-88
T28-77



Thanks.

On West Florida we are still only seeing 103W T21 and T25. You seem to also have a signal on T1 and T28.

And Miami is showing 99W T1, T11 and T17. I wonder if they are planning to use some of these for the Carribean as there is no reason to have 3 spots aimed at South Florida like that. They virtually could give each of the 4 channels their own private transponder right now.

The lack of anything on 99W here is really a head scratcher. I am really questioning if I have the AT9 installed correctly but then you see none in Orlando as we do on the West Side of the State. Yet 3 are showing in Miami. TechoFobe - you see anything new in Sarasota?


(for Orlando)

Any update to my above post, I just ran it again, and NOW this is what I am getting:

99 Net-11
T1-14
T11-13
T17-17

103 Net 14
T1-40
T21-16
T25-13
T28-41


I will go out on a limb and tell you in no uncertain terms you have a bad installation (ka probably not aligned properly). It is so far off that you are loosing SAT99 as is comes in and out of the box. The dew point in Florida tonight probably isn't helping either with the alignment being off.

The signal is just too low.

Call Directv Tech Support and tell them you are having freeze ups and macroblocking on the HD-LIL (you will) and read them your signal numbers. They will get a tech out.

At least one transponder should be in the high 80s or 90s. You don't have any close.

OK, now that I've had my D* setup for an WHOLE month, I figure I can at least post in here with more intelligent (not necessarily the most intelligent) insights. Please disregard any previous comments as they may have been hampered by alcohol or the D* honeymoon period.

I have a 5 LNB sat and an H20-100 receiver, though I had an H20-600 to begin with.

Something I've noticed is that the MPEG4 channels do not appear to have the same acceptable quality that the other non-MPEG4 HD channels have. It only took me attempting to watch the Stanley Cup playoffs on my local ABC to see the obvious difference. I *only* have a 42" HD plasma so I'm not talking about the artifacts seen by the 60" people. I have now begun to notice that movement on any channel (a normal hand movement on Letterman) seems to have the same problem. Is this the kind of quality that we can expect when everything goes MPEG4 with the nationals? I've decided to hook the antenna back up in my attic to grab the local HD. The stupid lip sync issues and the visual problems have caused me to grab the HD off of the air. So much for local HD being an important issue to D*. Coupling the lip sync problems with the obvious visual issue makes it SERIOUSLY inferior to OTA and I'm not a picky videophile. If they push locals out that way then I suspect they will lose alot of people to cable unless they only enjoy the non-motion HD shows like Sunrise-Earth.


I originally had an H20-600. That thing is a furnace. I gave it enough space to breath, but in the end, it had a problem. I will admit it's a minor problem. I had my favorites set-up and then added my off-air antenna (due to crappy locals from D*) . The favorites section could not be accessed for the most part (no more that 3 or 4 page downs) before a unit reboot. I now have an H20-100. Other than the fact that this one works with my off-air antenna fine it's is SOOOOO much cooler. The 600 almost hurt to touch, the 100 is a slightly warm unit.

Funny thing is, I don't want you to think I don't like D*. They are light years ahead of my local Cable Co and that's WITH the 6 phone calls it took me to get the H20-100 replacement unit activated. (I'm not kidding....they gave my 1 month of free Showtime for all of my troubles) I've decided to put my eggs in the D* basket for the next 2 years, I want my team to win ya know? I hope they can fix the issues that exist.


Snewo

HDTVFanAtic - thanks for the comments. Yes, I think there is definitely an alignment problem here. Mastek has only been out 3 times with this 5lnb dish. We spend some serious money with Directv and this is getting old. Despite getting the equipment for free and also a recent $209 credit (to cover NFL Sunday ticket), my patience is running real thin.

I would still like to confirm if I should use the B-Band converter. I get the HD LIL with or without it.

Thanks,
Rob

HDTVFanAtic - thanks for the comments. Yes, I think there is definitely an alignment problem here. Mastek has only been out 3 times with this 5lnb dish. We spend some serious money with Directv and this is getting old. Despite getting the equipment for free and also a recent $209 credit (to cover NFL Sunday ticket), my patience is running real thin.

I would still like to confirm if I should use the B-Band converter. I get the HD LIL with or without it.

Thanks,
Rob

YES!!!!

You must use the adapter on the back of your H20. I have no idea what happens if you don't - but it isn't good. Put that on and check your signal levels.

Something in the back of my mind vaguely says that the ka and ku was stacked on the same line - just as they used to diplex OTA and Ku. As you are aware, you cannot do that any longer as the ka output (iirc) is shifted down into the frequency range where the OTA TV is. Thus you need that B-Band Convertor to bring it back into the proper range for the STB.

If that is incorrect (somewhat or entirely) I am sure someone will take this chance to hope all over my answer :D

HDTVFanAtic - thanks for the comments. Yes, I think there is definitely an alignment problem here. Mastek has only been out 3 times with this 5lnb dish. We spend some serious money with Directv and this is getting old. Despite getting the equipment for free and also a recent $209 credit (to cover NFL Sunday ticket), my patience is running real thin.

I would still like to confirm if I should use the B-Band converter. I get the HD LIL with or without it.

Thanks,
Rob
If the B-Band Converter is NOT used.....the Ka Lo-Band signals will NOT be converted to frequencies the H20 can "see"....and you'll lose channels....
So....YES!....Install the B-Band Converter....Good luck!

I live in Ohio, why don't I get anything for Sat99. The installer didnt know why I don't, he just said don't worry about it. Also, I am having problems with the ratio on the H20. In HD the screen is full, but anything else it is in 4:3. When I use my H10-250, even the non HD are in full screen.

Anyone in Miami/Ft. Laud area having issues with HD Locals. Going by the first few days, Im very disappointed. Aside from the occasional pixelation and audio drop-outs, the quality is rather poor. On ABC, the world cup game grass showed heavy macroblocking and the blocks seemed as if they were dancing back and forth. Rather distracting to watch, and it was pretty constant. Same thing with LPGA on NBC. I caught the second soccer game on ESPN HD and it looked great.

I heard the same thing from another friend with a 600 model (I have 100). It seems receiver independent, Im thinking its an MPEG4 issue.

Any opinions?

Anyone in Miami/Ft. Laud area having issues with HD Locals. Going by the first few days, Im very disappointed. Aside from the occasional pixelation and audio drop-outs, the quality is rather poor. On ABC, the world cup game grass showed heavy macroblocking and the blocks seemed as if they were dancing back and forth. Rather distracting to watch, and it was pretty constant. Same thing with LPGA on NBC. I caught the second soccer game on ESPN HD and it looked great.

I heard the same thing from another friend with a 600 model (I have 100). It seems receiver independent, Im thinking its an MPEG4 issue.

Any opinions?

Yes, clearly its an MPEG4 issue and most have seen it (providing they have a real HDTV than can do the full 1080i) in literally every market.

The rain fall in this area since I imstalled the AT-9 & H20 has been much lower than normal so I haven't experienced any rainfade before this. Yesterday I noticed, however, that the local HD channel began to search for satellite during a shower. When I changed to the same station's non-HD channel --- it was coming in without a glitch.

Clearly and I suppose obviously, the local HD feed from the satellite handling those signals is much more prone to rainfade.

The worrisome part is that it wasn't raining all that hard. And, what with our just getting into the tropical storm season --- it might be a good thing that the programming on the local channels are mostly repeats?

perhaps your dish needs alignment for the MPEG4 sat(s).