you might want to try turning your amp down a little (if you're using one) and lowering the signal strength a bit- maybe down to %60-%70 . Ive been told a signal can be too strong and behave like you are describing .

Or maybe try rabbit ears with an amp- for strong local signals. Works great for my nearby locals. Let us know what happens :)

Mike
Wells, Maine

Still fiddling with the H20-----

I have native OFF, resolutions set to 1080i and 480p and stretch mode.

Why do I still have black bars along the left and right? I thought stretch mode would take them off. On one of my HD locals, I can see the stations "pillar" bars along both sides with their call letters and a moving graphic. Very distracting!

How do I fill the entire screen all the time?


Turn native "ON" and make sure the screen size (aspect ratio) is set to 16:9 (not 4:3) and stretch mode. Also, if your watching a HD channel but the program is not "HD" then you'll get pillar bars on the left and right. You'll have to use the 16:9 zoom function(on your tv) for this. For example, my local news in the morning on the HD channel has grey bars on the right/left sides.....I just live with it or watch it OTA SD and the bars are gone and it's very clear.

Most OTA HD signals came in at 95%-100% strength and I got some of the weaker stations like PBS and NBC at 80%. This lasted for about a week. Then suddenly the OTA channels dropped out. The signal strength began fluctuating dramatically and then dropped below 40%, most channels below 5%, and has remained there. Needless to say unwatchable even if a signal was received. I'm wondering if anyone else has had a similar issue or if this sounds like the ATSC tuner went bad.

Problem solved. I tried a hard reset by unplugging the H20 and rebooting, but that didn't help the OTA reception. Then, after reading some other posts with fix suggestions for menu issues, firmware updates, etc...I tried a soft restart with the red restart button under the access card panel. Low and behold, the OTA signal strength back up to 95%-100% on most channels.

Hopefully with the right dish installed tomorrow I'll have the same result with the satellite signal strength.

Problem solved. I tried a hard reset by unplugging the H20 and rebooting, but that didn't help the OTA reception. Then, after reading some other posts with fix suggestions for menu issues, firmware updates, etc...I tried a cold restart with the red restart button under the access card panel. Low and behold, the OTA signal strength back up to 95%-100% on most channels.

Hopefully with the right dish installed tomorrow I'll have the same result with the satellite signal strength.

Glad you got your OTA problem fixed.

Re sat signal strength with the H20, most people who had ~90s signal strength on older boxes usually get ~70s readings on the H20. 70-something is the "normal" for high SS on this receiver's meter and does not indicate a problem.

In the computer/electronics world, a 1.5 second delay is irritating, and as I know from my HD200, unnecessary. At this point in the development of these products, there is the reasonable expectiation of very nearly instantaneous response.

The Panorama mode on the Sony (and other boxes/TVs have a similar function) is much less distracting than a straight stretch mode, IMO. Should be standard on any product these days -- another unnecessary shortcoming. Again, one that was solved three years ago.

BTW, left 'Tivo' out of the following paragraph from earilier post and have re-inserted it:

- convoluted ergonomics, clumsy to operate; can't just push the left arrow, forex., to get rid of the setup menu or whatever place you're at. everything seems to take an extra keystroke or two. completely inferior to the HD200 and my Directv Tivo in this regard.

I agree that the linear-stretch is horrible. But, if you have a TV that does a better job, you can make the H20 pass the picture "as-is". This was suggested to me way earlier in this thread before I even bought the H20. I tried it and it works!

Set native to "on" and picture to "stretch". I don't know why they made this so confusing...

I'm still on the sony hd 100 I think it's on it's last lag I hope they can fix H20 soon

Ok, you guys have been saying how sensitive non-sat reception is with the H20. I'm a believer now!!!!

I'm 70 miles from Houston and about 60 miles from a secondary tv market, College Station. Sooooo, I grabbed some scrap coax, bent a 2' loop of #12 copper wire and made a loop, soldered it all together. Did an antenna scan and WOW! I picked up 5 stations! I did like we used to do 30 years back and beef up the signal with some aluminium foil wrapped around the loop in some choice areas, determined by the antenna signal meter.

Since Houston DirecTV does not include CBS currently, I can now get CBS in HDTV.

Side benefit... even though the locals broadcast local analog on top of an HDTV digital signal, one doesn't have to worry about snow, reflections, etc. Perfect signal, as long as it remains. Currently, I only have about 70% signal.... ahem, with the home brew antenna hanging from the ceiling! sheesh!!!!

I'll get a real antenna soon to get things done right, but this abolutely delighted me.

Even after you get a "real" antenna...I'd leave that "home-brew".....A GREAT conversation piece!! :D

Even after you get a "real" antenna...I'd leave that "home-brew".....A GREAT conversation piece!! :D :)
It would certainly be THAT!

Basically, all I was wanting to do was pick up just a single station for the College Station market since this particular station does better news coverage of where I am located, Huntsville, TX. The Houston stations rarely give news coverage here, but they are our market.

For the first time in years, I saw sports news about a new baseball park in town (only 3 miles from where I live. Yaaaay!), and weather for our area. Ah, jeeeezeee, such the simple things.

This H20 is simply amazing, once you get past the awful interface and dreadful menu system. I have easily worked past those issues. I really like this box, and not just because of the off-sat experience I have just had.

:) This H20 is simply amazing, once you get past the awful interface and dreadful menu system. I have easily worked past those issues. I really like this box, and not just because of the off-sat experience I have just had.
Agreed.

Hopefully, the 2/12/06 (or near that date) firmware upgrade addresses the menu issue somehow. It's more of an irritant than an "issue", but that would be nice to have past us all.

Agreed.

Hopefully, the 2/12/06 (or near that date) firmware upgrade addresses the menu issue somehow. It's more of an irritant than an "issue", but that would be nice to have past us all.
Oh yes....
I wonder what about the menu is embedded in hardware and is replaceable by software upgrade, though? I'd suggest the entire menu interface needs to be replaced. :mad:

But, there is a lot of redundancy in this box in which one can dance around past the ugly stuff and have good viewing.

:)
...

This H20 is simply amazing, once you get past the awful interface and dreadful menu system. I have easily worked past those issues. I really like this box, and not just because of the off-sat experience I have just had.

Larry,

Good for you. I agree in every respect. And it can only get better.

Dana

... I'd suggest the entire menu interface needs to be replaced...

I agree, it should be scrapped. It's absolutely the worst UI experience of any D* STB I've used (quite a few) since 1995.

Best way to tune a channel (station) on the h-20 is simply punch the numbers in. For example..Hallmark..3-1-2. The designers of this unit had to work hard to get it..so difficult to operate. They just should have copied the ZenithHD520.

Best way to tune a channel (station) on the h-20 is simply punch the numbers in. For example..Hallmark..3-1-2. The designers of this unit had to work hard to get it..so difficult to operate. They just should have copied the ZenithHD520.
and maybe included a box of crayons with each instruction manual...

Not to worry, I suspect the menu issues will dissipate with near-term updates.

... I suspect the menu issues will dissipate with near-term updates.

Just curious, where are you getting info on FW updates?

Ok, you guys have been saying how sensitive non-sat reception is with the H20. I'm a believer now!!!!

I'm 70 miles from Houston and about 60 miles from a secondary tv market, College Station. Sooooo, I grabbed some scrap coax, bent a 2' loop of #12 copper wire and made a loop, soldered it all together. Did an antenna scan and WOW! I picked up 5 stations! I did like we used to do 30 years back and beef up the signal with some aluminium foil wrapped around the loop in some choice areas, determined by the antenna signal meter.

Since Houston DirecTV does not include CBS currently, I can now get CBS in HDTV.

Side benefit... even though the locals broadcast local analog on top of an HDTV digital signal, one doesn't have to worry about snow, reflections, etc. Perfect signal, as long as it remains. Currently, I only have about 70% signal.... ahem, with the home brew antenna hanging from the ceiling! sheesh!!!!

I'll get a real antenna soon to get things done right, but this abolutely delighted me.

Wondered if anybody else had tried this homebrew idea. I'm thinking about making a large copper loop in my attic and run the coax down to my H20. I wonder if you could use two loops at 90 degree angle to each other to make it more multi-directional. Just thinking out loud. Let's see if this really works.

Jaymst

Just got off the line with Directv installation and got free install of 5 LNB disk and free H20 without trade in. I've been their customer since 94 and get NFL every year and used to get MLB and NHL. If they drop Sunday ticket their history and they know it. I wouldn't be suprised if all the cable companies got together when the NFL package goes up for bid and took it over.

I'm going to miss the RF portion of my Sony Sat A4.

I've been with DirecTV since 1994 too! I'm getting 2 H20's :)

I've been with DirecTV since 1994 too! I'm getting 2 H20's :)

Good 4 U. I really didn't want to push my luck.

Besides Verizon has laid down fiber optics in NJ so we'll see what they have to offer. I think I'm going to say goodby to Comast soon.

Verizon will be installing its video hub for the Phila, NJ, Delaware region in September 2006. After that, video for its FiOS service will be available. I will be awaiting this deployment before I decide if I will drop DTV.

Just curious, where are you getting info on FW updates?
Internal engineer contact.

(good source)
So, I guess they're quite aware of the channel change & EPG speed issues and gawd-awful GUI ...

(good source)
So, I guess they're quite aware of the channel change & EPG speed issues and gawd-awful GUI ...
The GUI is an improvement in the opinion of most of the folks I talk to - What is NOT as well liked is the 2 second channel change delay & the double clicking required to get to the guide, as well as some audio sync and local HD audio Dolby dropouts. Those are the 4 (main) complaints made of the H20 in the calls to CSRs at DirecTV according to my source.

IMO, the GUI is *not* an improvement.

Too much non-intuitive and unnecessary button pushes to in or out of menus.
And they could've left the freeze button, but I know why they didn't...

The setup wizard is nice though.

I agree.......compared with my Zenith Sat 520, the H20 is very counter-intuitive.

Does anyone have any idea what the two buttons (SW500 & SW501) are for inside the H20 receiver?

SW500 (http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e76/jtsongas/DirecTV%20H20%20Receiver/100_0242.jpg)

SW501 (http://i37.photobucket.com/albums/e76/jtsongas/DirecTV%20H20%20Receiver/100_0243.jpg)

TIA,
Jason

Verizon will be installing its video hub for the Phila, NJ, Delaware region in September 2006. After that, video for its FiOS service will be available. I will be awaiting this deployment before I decide if I will drop DTV.

Verizon has (at least temporarily) dropped its effort to supply video via fios in NJ. They were in the midst of arguing whether they needed to cover 100% of the state or just the populus areas and the cable companies seemed to be winning the effort. Verizon does not want to be forced into 100% coverage of the state.

Wondered if anybody else had tried this homebrew idea. I'm thinking about making a large copper loop in my attic and run the coax down to my H20. I wonder if you could use two loops at 90 degree angle to each other to make it more multi-directional. Just thinking out loud. Let's see if this really works.

Jaymst
You need to make the antenna close to the dimensions of any UHF antenna, though. Whether it be my copper wire one, or others specialized for the UHF range, I think. As if I knew what I was talking about! I mean, I was shocked that this was actually working!

I'm sure my aluminum foil just merely fine-tuned it better. :eek:

I have the H20 600 (I think that is LG) D*tv box. I have the "One for All" LCD programmable remote. However, I can not find the code to use on this box. Even worse, when I try the "learning" function, it will not learn the "exit" function....so after you press guide there is no way out.

I have two options:
Find the remote code for the Sat box and be on my way or find a way that the D*TV remote can learn a "few" functions of my TV's remote. (I.E-TV input and stretch modes).

Thanks for you help in advance. By the way, I CAN NOT spend $150 on another remote, because we are in the middle of redoing our bathroom and dining room.

... when I try the "learning" function, it will not learn the "exit" function....so after you press guide there is no way out...

Teach it the H20's BACK button instead.

Or, teach it the H20's BLUE (mini-guide) button instead of the main guide button.

Teach it the H20's BACK button instead.

Or, teach it the H20's BLUE (mini-guide) button instead of the main guide button.


Now I get a "memory full" message. How do I reset factory settings?This may be from when I "learned" my TS360 functions.

I've been resisting the H20 for months because at this stage it really doesn't offer anything I need, but I think I'll get a "free" one anyway before the 3/1/06 startup of the all-rental program (probably from Value Electronics -I like the free 5-year warranty). I'll deactivate the built-in DTC100 in my 5-year-old RCA F38310 and let the H20 replace that. One downside is that, even with all the tuners & inputs carefully adjusted to zero overscan, the built-in tuners show an inch or so of extra material at each horizontal edge compared to the Sony SAT-HD300, Comcast 6412, and LG LST-3410A that I have connected via component. Guess I can live with that for D* programming. The DTC100 will still be useful for OTA (which is excellent here).

Now I get a "memory full" message. How do I reset factory settings?This may be from when I "learned" my TS360 functions.
Try the Remote Central discussion forum:
http://www.remotecentral.com/cgi-bin/mboard/forums.cgi

I have the H20 600 (I think that is LG) D*tv box. I have the "One for All" LCD programmable remote. However, I can not find the code to use on this box. Even worse, when I try the "learning" function, it will not learn the "exit" function....so after you press guide there is no way out.
.

Don't know which model you have, mine's URC-8910B02, but just call One for All and get the required codes downloaded to your remote (see the manual).

BTW: the H10 codes work for the H20.

Don't know which model you have, mine's URC-8910B02, but just call One for All and get the required codes downloaded to your remote (see the manual).

BTW: the H10 codes work for the H20.

Your right !!!! i have the same remote and all I have to do is call the phone # and they said it takes 30 seconds over the phone...COOL!!!! Thanks!!!

Verizon will be installing its video hub for the Phila, NJ, Delaware region in September 2006. After that, video for its FiOS service will be available. I will be awaiting this deployment before I decide if I will drop DTV.


I sure hope that verizon will work something with local sports in the Philadelphia area. If they do, Commycast is toast!!!! It sure sounds as though this would be the plan or "loophole" that directv will work through to get local philadelphia sports. Because Verizon and Directv are working together right now. I want to watch the Flyers and Phillies again...YEAH!!!!

I sure hope that verizon will work something with local sports in the Philadelphia area. If they do, Commycast is toast!!!! It sure sounds as though this would be the plan or "loophole" that directv will work through to get local philadelphia sports. Because Verizon and Directv are working together right now. I want to watch the Flyers and Phillies again...YEAH!!!!

The only loophole that prevents DirecTV from getting ComcastSportsNet is the microwave distribution clause. Since Comcast does not distribute CSN via satelite is does not have to distribute to DirecTV.

However, Verizon FiOS would be exempt since its all fiber. The question is will Comcast negotiate CSN broadcast rights to Verizon!! With all the competitive pressures, I think Verizon will prevail.

Anyone know if D* will have access to Comcast SportsNet Chicago HD in the future?

Just had the AT-9 and one H-20 installed on 1/26 and, like several other posters I am very impressed with the H-20's OTA performance. I'm located between the Baltimore and Washington markets and was never able to pull in both areas OTA with my Sony KDF55WF655 tuner and a roof mounted Winegard SS2000 but the H-20 does it with ease! The only thing that concerns me is the H-20 seems to run very hot! I have raised it off the shelf which helps some but it is still quite hot Anyone out there think that this heat issue could become a significant long term problem with the receiver?

...The only thing that concerns me is the H-20 seems to run very hot! I have raised it off the shelf which helps some but it is still quite hot Anyone out there think that this heat issue could become a significant long term problem with the receiver?
Component items like this receiver are well-tested for temperature and has ample vent slots at the top and bottom. Just don't pile stuff on top of it.

Mine is on a shelf by itself.

I currently have the H10 and live in Dallas /ft worth metroplex. Is there any reason to upgrade to the H20. I currently use OTA for my HD locals and the OTA picture looks great. Do you get more channels with the new sat? Is the HD picture better? Sorry about the newbie questions. Just heard about the H20. Also, if it is something worth getting, will direct TV exchange it for free?

I currently have the H10 and live in Dallas /ft worth metroplex. Is there any reason to upgrade to the H20. I currently use OTA for my HD locals and the OTA picture looks great. Do you get more channels with the new sat? Is the HD picture better? Sorry about the newbie questions. Just heard about the H20. Also, if it is something worth getting, will direct TV exchange it for free?
Currently there is no reason for you to upgrade. Eventually D* will start adding national HD channels on mpeg4 but probably not until the end of next year.

Anyone know if D* will have access to Comcast SportsNet Chicago HD in the future?

I doubt you will see it....you should search in the programming forum....there was a lot of discussion about this. I believe that this channel is all fiber and does not need to be made available to satellite. Someone please correct me if I am wrong.

I just bought a H20 tonight and have yet to install it. I have the 3LNB dish and was told that in my area the only way I can get HD local right now is OTA. I'm assuming if I got a 5LNB dish that I would still only be able to get them OTA right? Sorry if I sound confusing I'm confusing myself reading everything.

I just bought a H20 tonight and have yet to install it. I have the 3LNB dish and was told that in my area the only way I can get HD local right now is OTA. I'm assuming if I got a 5LNB dish that I would still only be able to get them OTA right? Sorry if I sound confusing I'm confusing myself reading everything.
Right now on the top 12 DMA's can receive HD locals via the dish. If you are not in one of these areas you can't get the 5lnb dish and you get HD locals OTA only.

I currently have the H10 and live in Dallas /ft worth metroplex. Is there any reason to upgrade to the H20. I currently use OTA for my HD locals and the OTA picture looks great. Do you get more channels with the new sat? Is the HD picture better? Sorry about the newbie questions. Just heard about the H20. Also, if it is something worth getting, will direct TV exchange it for free?

My experience is that the H20 gave me reception of three OTA HD channels in this market, not just the one that my Sammy 360 brought in. And, in my judgment, the PQ is better - colors more vivid, etc. - across the board with the H20. YMMV.

Yopu can buy it from retailers with a $200 rebate until March 1 = free. After that, D* switches to a lease plan.

Dana

Right now on the top 12 DMA's can receive HD locals via the dish. If you are not in one of these areas you can't get the 5lnb dish...

That's not entirely accurate. I'm in St. Louis, which is out of the top 12, I think closer to 20th maybe? Anyway, I called last week to the mover's connection phone number to setup an install at my newly constructed home and they all but forced me to take the 5LNB dish and the new receiver (while keeping my HD Tivo and 2 of 3 of my other HD receivers). I even asked if I could get the old 3LNB dish and keep things the same, but he said that it's close enough to their estimate of when STL locals will be available, that they are giving everyone the 5LNB dish now (so they'll have less upgrades later this year when locals do become available). ;)

but define "close enough"...maybe that means 1-2 months for YOU, but it might meant "within the next year" for them... ;)

why would you want the 3-lnb when you can get the same/more value with the 5, and not have to go through a second installation hassel?

am I missing something?

So when the channels become available here are they going to charge me to upgrade to the 5LNB or do they upgrade for free?

am I missing something?

Yes, I was just correcting the statement that "if you are not in one of these areas (top 12 market) you can't get the 5 LNB dish".

I wanted to clarify that there are people getting the mpeg4 equipment installed in markets that are due to be ready at some point deemed to be "soon enough" for DirecTV. May 06 was their estimate for me, so I'm able to order it at least 4 months prior to my locals being available (and that's only an estimate, it might be more like late summer, who knows. Whenever it does get turned on, I'll be ready to go though).

sorry...I misunderstood your post...I thought you were saying that you tried to get a 3-lnb dish but they wouldn't do it and forced you to get a 5-lnb...

which led me to question why you would want the 3...

makes sense now! :o :)

I would also echo the thought that if the opportunity was there, to go ahead and get the 5LNB. It pulls in a stronger signal slightly. I have both the 3LNB and 5LNB and compared the signals with my older non-HDTV DTV receiver. That receiver gave me high 90s on the 5LBN and low 90s on the 3LNB. Plus, with the future expansion of broadcasting content...

Also, if free installation by a COMPETENT installer isn't an option, I would go ahead install the dish myself. I helped a guy do that just this weekend. WE got our heads together, looked at the 5LNB's manual and just did a very careful step1, step2, step3 install and actually pulled it off. The manual states clearly that an signal strength meter is required, but gives alternate instructions if one isn't available.

Signal strength at his location of all satellites are similar to what we posted earlier, basically, in the high 70s, low 90s.

In summary, go with the 5LNB! Now, if a 3LNB is in service NOW, I'd say stay with it, unless a 5LNB can be had for free as part of an upgrade. But, in the future, the 5LNB needs to come into play.

I thought you were saying that you tried to get a 3-lnb dish but they wouldn't do it and forced you to get a 5-lnb...

They didn't come right out and say that they were forcing me to get the 5-LNB install, but it didn't seem as if I had an option. At first, I didn't know if I wanted it (thinking that I couldn't use diplexers for getting OTA to my mpeg2 equipment) but after further discussion/advise here, I now know that it's possible so I'm staying with the 5-LNB dish install. The only other reason that I was even considering having them put in the 3-LNB dish is the 1yr vs 2yr commitment renewal. Since I'm getting an old HD receiver swapped out for free for a new mpeg4 receiver (along with the dish of course), they wanted 2yrs instead of the standard 1yr when you do the "mover's connection". No biggy for me though, I'm not going anywhere (unless Sunday Ticket leaves D*).

So when the channels become available here are they going to charge me to upgrade to the 5LNB or do they upgrade for free?They will probably do the 5LNB upgrade for free when MPEG4 channels become available in your area, but they may also make you recommit to stay with D* another 24 months at that time. IIRC, they're now doing that for all "Advanced Products" like HD boxes & DVRs.

I agree.......compared with my Zenith Sat 520, the H20 is very counter-intuitive.
If the 2 blondes in my house have been able to use the remote with this menu without a problem, you should be able to as well... :D

OK, Some of you may have read about all of my installation problems with my AT9 dish and H20. Well, it is up and running. HD looks spactacular, but SD is only ok. Not a big surprise, but what is surprising is along the left and right sides, it is much works than the rest of the screen. About 1/2 inch on each sides is very blury and shows extensive artifacts.

I have a 55" Mits. Platinum rear-projection tv. My H20 is runnig through a Denon A/V Reciever (component cable). I still have my RCA setup the exact same way and there are no issues.

The problem is there on ALL sd channels, no matter if I am connected to a 3 lnb or 5 lnb and regardless of going direct to tv or through A/V reciever. Issue is also present in 480i, 480p and 1080i. It is only there in pillar box. When I stretch it appears to have moved off the screen (possible overscan issue). For my SD content I have it set for 4x3. I hate the pillar box, but the wife hates looking at stretched people!

I have all the same settings for my RCA and HDTivo and this is the only box with the issue.

Any one else have this problem?

Jeff

If the 2 blondes in my house have been able to use the remote with this menu without a problem, you should be able to as well... :D

Using the GUI and liking it are two different things.

Jon,

I watched the AT-9 install video and they mentioned you can't use diplexers with the new dish. DirecTV is using a much larger bandwidth amount with MPEG5 than they were using before and part of the bandwidth they are using is interfered by the local signal in the wire.

Chris

OK, Some of you may have read about all of my installation problems with my AT9 dish and H20. Well, it is up and running. HD looks spactacular, but SD is only ok. Not a big surprise, but what is surprising is along the left and right sides, it is much works than the rest of the screen. About 1/2 inch on each sides is very blury and shows extensive artifacts.

I have a 55" Mits. Platinum rear-projection tv. My H20 is runnig through a Denon A/V Reciever (component cable). I still have my RCA setup the exact same way and there are no issues.

The problem is there on ALL sd channels, no matter if I am connected to a 3 lnb or 5 lnb and regardless of going direct to tv or through A/V reciever. Issue is also present in 480i, 480p and 1080i. It is only there in pillar box. When I stretch it appears to have moved off the screen (possible overscan issue). For my SD content I have it set for 4x3. I hate the pillar box, but the wife hates looking at stretched people!

I have all the same settings for my RCA and HDTivo and this is the only box with the issue.

Any one else have this problem?

Jeff


I have the H20 box and Hitachi 51". I am running HDMI to DVI native 480I/1080I. I prefer the TV to upconvert the 480I signal to 540P...Looks really nice.
I set the H20 to "stretch" mode and the Tv set to 16:9 standard (sometimes to 4:3 expanded). Some sd (not many) stations are a little annoying with noticable "plumping" of people....But for the most part SD is REALLY nice on 80% or so of the stations I am viewing. My wife has not complained once. Some stations are so clear, that from a distance they appear "HD"!

The same should be said for component video....especially with RP CRT...but I have not tried that yet. BTW, I am using a $8 HDMI to DVI video cable. I have nothing to compare it to, except my component monster cables(what a scam...my cheap component cables look just as good)...but the pictire is crystal clear, so I ain't about to spend $100 on a HDMI-DVI monster cable to find out!!!!

Oh, by the way, I noticed that even though the S-video puts out a decent picture, the HDMI puts out a better pic in 480I than S-video. Just my opinion...no scientific measurements. Just as I see it.

Component items like this receiver are well-tested for temperature and has ample vent slots at the top and bottom. Just don't pile stuff on top of it.

Mine is on a shelf by itself.

Thanks for the reply. Mine is also on a separate shelf. I think what surprised me is that it runs significantly hotter than my A/V receiver (Pioneer VSX-1014TX) and the Pioneer has a big old power amp in it. Plus I was used to what it replaced (RCA DRD480) which ran very cool.

Yeah, she's a warm box, that's for sure. I haven't the nerve to open it up to just see what's in there to heat it up, other than the power supply.

Jon,

I watched the AT-9 install video and they mentioned you can't use diplexers with the new dish. DirecTV is using a much larger bandwidth amount with MPEG5 than they were using before and part of the bandwidth they are using is interfered by the local signal in the wire.

Chris

Read back a couple of pages. I've got people telling me that I can diplex OTA in there for the leads running to my mpeg2 HD receivers (not the new mpeg4 one, obviously). If I can't use diplexers at all (even for leads running to mpeg2 receivers) I'll probably cancel the install and put up a 3LNB myself. GRRRR

You can't use OTA diplexers with the 5LNB dish.

My dad mentioned to me that his H20 does not turn itself on so that timer programs can be recorded - the timer only seems to work if he leaves the H20 on al the time. His old SD receiver did turn itself on as needed.

Has anyone else noticed this or is there a setting that can be adjusted?

You can't use OTA diplexers with the 5LNB dish.

Argh.

You can't use them period, or you can't use them going to mpeg4 receivers? I'm getting conflicting reports here:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7022069#post7022069

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7020534#post7020534

I'm not trying to send an OTA signal to the new mpeg4 HD receiver that will be going in, only two mpeg2 HD receiver's (one being a Tivo).

If you know something that Ken H doesn't, please clarify. He seems to think that I can use OTA diplexer's for cable runs going to my mpeg2 receivers. If this is not the case, I will need to call DirecTV and cancel my install (and switch it to a regular 3LNB dish).

It was my understanding that you couldn't use them at all, period. That may be wrong though, for MPEG2 boxes.

My dad mentioned to me that his H20 does not turn itself on so that timer programs can be recorded - the timer only seems to work if he leaves the H20 on al the time. His old SD receiver did turn itself on as needed.Just leave the box on. It consumes ~the same amount of power on vs. off.

OK, Some of you may have read about all of my installation problems with my AT9 dish and H20. Well, it is up and running. HD looks spactacular, but SD is only ok. Not a big surprise, but what is surprising is along the left and right sides, it is much works than the rest of the screen. About 1/2 inch on each sides is very blury and shows extensive artifacts.

I have a 55" Mits. Platinum rear-projection tv. My H20 is runnig through a Denon A/V Reciever (component cable). I still have my RCA setup the exact same way and there are no issues.

The problem is there on ALL sd channels, no matter if I am connected to a 3 lnb or 5 lnb and regardless of going direct to tv or through A/V reciever. Issue is also present in 480i, 480p and 1080i. It is only there in pillar box. When I stretch it appears to have moved off the screen (possible overscan issue). For my SD content I have it set for 4x3. I hate the pillar box, but the wife hates looking at stretched people!

I have all the same settings for my RCA and HDTivo and this is the only box with the issue.

Any one else have this problem?

Jeff

Jeff,

I get the same result on my Samsung DLP when watching SD stations via the DVI hook up. I do not see that issue if I use S-video when watching SD for some reason. Despite the difference, I always use the DVI connection whether I'm watching SD or HD. Makes surfing back and forth from HD to SD a non issue; otherwise I'd have to change the connection setting every time I moved between SD and HD. I got use to it and don't even see the extra fuzzies around the boarder of the screen. If it really bothers you watching SD material, try a lower quality connection like S-video to see if it "fixes" it.

Just leave the box on. It consumes ~the same amount of power on vs. off.

???

This cannot be correct. The box is at least 50 degrees cooler with it turned off, implying a difference of 100 watts or more of power consumption. It does consume some power turned off but not nearly the same amount.

Forgetting about the power situation, I have always left the Directv receivers on thru the years. I have never had any problems with any of the receivers with the exception of one of them. We do shut the plasma display off at night.

Argh.

You can't use them period, or you can't use them going to mpeg4 receivers? I'm getting conflicting reports here:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7022069#post7022069

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7020534#post7020534

I'm not trying to send an OTA signal to the new mpeg4 HD receiver that will be going in, only two mpeg2 HD receiver's (one being a Tivo).

If you know something that Ken H doesn't, please clarify. He seems to think that I can use OTA diplexer's for cable runs going to my mpeg2 receivers. If this is not the case, I will need to call DirecTV and cancel my install (and switch it to a regular 3LNB dish).
The only issue with using diplexers with the at9 is that they will need to filter out the signal that the dish puts on the line. If the diplexor can do that then you won't have a problem.

???

This cannot be correct. The box is at least 50 degrees cooler with it turned off, implying a difference of 100 watts or more of power consumption. It does consume some power turned off but not nearly the same amount.I don't believe it. Is that a guess? Does it have a temperature readout in the menu? If so, check when it was on for a long time as opposed to when it was just turned on.

The only issue with using diplexers with the at9 is that they will need to filter out the signal that the dish puts on the line. If the diplexor can do that then you won't have a problem.

Thanks.

Is there a special diplexer to use for this purpose, or can use the diplexer's that I'm using with my 3-LNB setup (Perfect Vision PVDP3, 40-2150mhz). Thanks.

Currently there is no reason for you to upgrade. Eventually D* will start adding national HD channels on mpeg4 but probably not until the end of next year.


I am in the same situation, but from what I have read on this forum, it would seem that the H20 has a better overall picture than the H10. I think I might cal lthis week t otry and get the H20.

your right i have been a profitable customer and i currently have no contract commitment with them...i will borrow my husbands nuts and give that retention number a piece of my mind...so wait..free all the way right? lol...ok...then thats what i will do

I don't believe it. Is that a guess? Does it have a temperature readout in the menu? If so, check when it was on for a long time as opposed to when it was just turned on.

What do you not believe, that the temperature is 50 degrees less turned off vs. turned on? The box draws almost 2 amps turned on and less than 1 amp turned off. That is at least 100 watts difference. In both instances the box is hot, but its like trying to tell the difference between a 100 and 200 watt light bulb with your hand. They are both still hot to the touch but one is significantly cooler. I will re-check its current draw and put a thermocouple in the cabinet to check the temperature, on and off, just to make sure. When I get the time. :)

My dad mentioned to me that his H20 does not turn itself on so that timer programs can be recorded - the timer only seems to work if he leaves the H20 on al the time. His old SD receiver did turn itself on as needed.

Has anyone else noticed this or is there a setting that can be adjusted?


I have noticed the same thing.

I have noticed the same thing.

I did a test last weekend on my new H20. It will NOT turn itself on. You must leave the STB on for the Autotune function to work. It's a step backwards from my Sony HD300, in that function but a better receiver in that it has a more sensitive tuner.

Quote:
Originally Posted by 66stang351
The only issue with using diplexers with the at9 is that they will need to filter out the signal that the dish puts on the line. If the diplexor can do that then you won't have a problem.


Thanks.

Is there a special diplexer to use for this purpose, or can use the diplexer's that I'm using with my 3-LNB setup (Perfect Vision PVDP3, 40-2150mhz). Thanks.





jdiehl,
Would this diplexer help you out? You can combine the ota feed with the feeds coming off your 6x8 switch that are not going to the MPEG4 receiver,then just use a diplexer at those receivers. I have this on order as I need to do something like that.

http://www.solidsignal.com/prod_display.asp?PROD=SP4014

I am in the same situation, but from what I have read on this forum, it would seem that the H20 has a better overall picture than the H10. I think I might cal lthis week t otry and get the H20.

I would not even mess with the H10. The PQ on sd was not that good and S-video was pixelated on my 20" Toshiba....so imagine the PQ on a 50" or larger set via s-video. Anyway, I really had a hard time getting a free system from them because I just signed a 2-year deal, got the H10 free, $75 credit, 6 month's $5 hd, 3-months free Showtime. So this time around I called retention 3 times and the best I could do was (2)-H20's and the 5-LNB installed for $60. At least I got 2-units and I have the H10.....If you want to buy it I will sell it to you. However, I would recommend getting the H20 and don't even mess with the H10. It sounds like D*tv plans on having numerous Mpeg4 HD channels by mid-summer.(I heard the addition of 4-5 more by late Feb early March). This was from the installer and retention....so take it for what it's worth.

So, I'm totally new to the HD world, as it relates to DTV. So after skimming through several pages of this thread, I have a few questions, so please bear with me. As I understand it, I can get at least one, maybe two H20's, with the new 5 lnb dish, with installation for free(2 year comittment required). If I also understand correctly, I will be able to get local channels off air, with this set up(is the OFA included?), or, if I'm in the right market, I can get them directly from DTV. I live in the San Francisco bay area, so I would guess that I'm in an area that would favor the latter of the two. I am wondering if the H20 has one tuner, or two, allowing picture in picture, or watching one, while recording another(my wife loves that feature in our Tivo). Do you have to pay extra for the guide service like you do for Tivo, or will the Tivo guide I currently pay for work with it.? Thanks for the help, and patience :o

The interactive guide is included at no charge with all DirecTV (aka D* - not DTV on this forum) service.
The H20 is not a DVR, but there is a D* MPEG4 HD DVR coming soon. D* will soon discontinue offering new D*Tivo receivers and D*Tivo subscriptions.

The H20 will receive Over The Air (OTA) local broadcasts with an antenna. That is not normally included with a standard D* install. You need to provide your own antenna.

The D* H20 only has one tuner, so no pic in pic if the H20 is your only source.

Your existing Tivo will not work with D*.

What would cause pixelation constantly on the ESPN2 HD channel (channel 72) and on my local HD channels (locals pixelate only during the evening, and on some occassions out of sync).

D* stopped out to adjust the dish and came out again to check the wiring. Transponders are showing good numbers and the tech saw ESPN2 HD pixelate but can't figure out why.

Anybody else have this problem?

H20 OTA Tuner question.

Ok so I now have my H20 inplace ready for my 5LNB install next week. Still use my 3LNB for now works great. The H20 replaced my HDL.
So here is my delema..
HDL - OTA analog signals fair can see them on my TV
HDL- DT fair for only 2 stations apx 30 miles away Chnl 3 & 42

H20 - OTA analog signals = non existant with same VHF/UHF ant not changed from previous location. ( It is on rotor in attic - so wind load not a factor)
H20 - DT Only get 2 signals one the local PBS station I had gotten above & Chnl 9 out of DC on occassion. (never was able to get with HDL)

On my regular TV NTSC tuner get most all locals fair enough to watch if problem with sat due to weather. But none from H20 with the same OFF AIR ant feed to it. Just shows station not avaible ???

Now note this is for all the OTA channels & not the sat channels.

So my question is this-- Am I missing a step with the H20?
I have rescanned & rebooted & used both primary & 2nd chioce market zip codes during setup.

Any ideas, suggestions, comments? Others having this issue???

By the by Zip here is 22601

tony2000,

The H20 does not have an analog OTA tuner.

Dana

Well that would explain it.

Thanks

Dana

What would cause pixelation constantly on the ESPN2 HD channel (channel 72) and on my local HD channels (locals pixelate only during the evening, and on some occassions out of sync).

D* stopped out to adjust the dish and came out again to check the wiring. Transponders are showing good numbers and the tech saw ESPN2 HD pixelate but can't figure out why.

Anybody else have this problem?

The pixelation problem with the HD locals is a known problem. I haven't heard of any problem with ESPN2 HD though.

jdiehl,
Would this diplexer help you out? You can combine the ota feed with the feeds coming off your 6x8 switch that are not going to the MPEG4 receiver,then just use a diplexer at those receivers. I have this on order as I need to do something like that.

http://www.solidsignal.com/prod_display.asp?PROD=SP4014

Not really sure if that would do the trick or not. I currently use an Eagle Aspen 5x8 multiswitch to mix in the OTA (and then diplexer's at the receivers), but that requires using all 4 leads coming from the LNB. From following this thread, I believe that there are 5 total leads coming from the new 5 LNB dish, so I'm not sure how that would work in this situation. I connected 4 of the 5 available leads, would that work (but basically limit the 8 outputs to mpeg2 stuff online, which would be fine).

Please update the thread or shoot me a PM when you get it hooked up. I need to know what to have ready for my install the first week of March. Thanks!

I currently had my local HD channels running through my TV (hitach 65f710). I just bought the H20 and should I run my antenna through it or the TV? I haven't hooked up the H20 yet.

ZCore,

The short answer is that if you want both satellite and OTA channels integrated in the H20 menu, then you'd want to hook the OTA antenna feed into the H20.

Dana

Not really sure if that would do the trick or not. I currently use an Eagle Aspen 5x8 multiswitch to mix in the OTA (and then diplexer's at the receivers), but that requires using all 4 leads coming from the LNB. From following this thread, I believe that there are 5 total leads coming from the new 5 LNB dish, so I'm not sure how that would work in this situation. I connected 4 of the 5 available leads, would that work (but basically limit the 8 outputs to mpeg2 stuff online, which would be fine).

Please update the thread or shoot me a PM when you get it hooked up. I need to know what to have ready for my install the first week of March. Thanks!
There are four leads from the new AT9 dish. The only reason that the old switches won't work with the new dish is they are not certified to work in the KA signals freq range.

There are four leads from the new AT9 dish. The only reason that the old switches won't work with the new dish is they are not certified to work in the KA signals freq range.

Okay, thanks. Not sure why I thought there were 5 leads from the new dish, must have misread that.

So, I'll just have to attempt to use multiple diplexer's coming out of a new 8 way multiswitch that the installer will put in, instead of mixing it straight to into one that had the OTA input right on there. I'll need 6 total leads (4 receivers, 2 of them Tivo's), so I guess they'll give me a 4x8 switch?

Ran the antenna through the H20 and it picks up OTA really well. Yes its a lot easier with the channels integrated into the H20 menu. Thanks.

So you are telling me, that if I buy a new HD Tivo today, from D*(on this forum) that they will not support it much longer. I know they are going to stop selling them, but I find it very hard to believe that they will no longer support them. Does this mean that the Tivo subscription fee will be eliminated, along with the service? Is there an official posting somewhere? I didn't see anything like that on D*'s web site?

So you are telling me, that if I buy a new HD Tivo today, from D*(on this forum) that they will not support it much longer. I know they are going to stop selling them, but I find it very hard to believe that they will no longer support them. Does this mean that the Tivo subscription fee will be eliminated, along with the service? Is there an official posting somewhere? I didn't see anything like that on D*'s web site?
Nobody ever said that. The only issue is that the current HD Tivo unit will not be able to receive the new Mpeg4 signals. D* dropped Tivo quite a while back but they continue to support the service for current users.

Anyone notice a problem with lipsync on the MPEG4 HD channels? I've had to reboot the receiver a few times tonight. It goes out by quite a bit.

I have ordered the H20....I somehow was able to talk them out of charging me the $99.00 installation fee ....which leaves me to pay only the $14.00 taxes thats it!..with my old HD receiver trade in of course.....but I have a few questions about this unit.....Im hoping you guys and gals can answer them for me... (#1) ...does the caller ID display the name along with the # (#2) I noticed that the H20 has a Rf input ....Can I run my coax cable from my other non hd receiver and display thru H20 as I want to use PIP? (#3)Can i use remote to switch from 480 to 720p to 1080i?..I have the Samsung 160 D* receiver....I'm tired of having to manualy switch the resolutions by going to receiver and flipping the switch in the back.....any info will be appreciated...thanks quickfire

I have ordered the H20....I somehow was able to talk them out of charging me the $99.00 installation fee ....which leaves me to pay only the $14.00 taxes thats it!..with my old HD receiver trade in of course.....but I have a few questions about this unit.....Im hoping you guys and gals can answer them for me... (#1) ...does the caller ID display the name along with the # (#2) I noticed that the H20 has a Rf input ....Can I run my coax cable from my other non hd receiver and display thru H20 as I want to use PIP? (#3)Can i use remote to switch from 480 to 720p to 1080i?..I have the Samsung 160 D* receiver....I'm tired of having to manualy switch the resolutions by going to receiver and flipping the switch in the back.....any info will be appreciated...thanks quickfire
#1 I don't know but there have been issues getting it to display anything.
#2 The H20 has an OTA antenna input a Satelite input and a RF remote antenna input. It can't receive the output of antother receiver.
#3 Why do you need to change it? Just set the box to native if thats what you want.

(#1) ...does the caller ID display the name along with the # Yes, if you have CID number+name service from your telco.

(#3)Can i use remote to switch from 480 to 720p to 1080i?...You can choose "Native" in the Setup menu and all channels will output at whatever the station is broadcasting. Or, you can select from the resolutions you told the H20 your TV can support (during setup process). You can toggle through these resolutions, using the remote's Format key. Here's a link to the H20's user manual (http://www.directv.com/learn/pdf/System_Manuals/DIRECTV/DIRECTV_H20_UG.pdf). The format info is on page 34.

The reason of wanting to change it ..is because I have the Sanyo Z3....and Toshiba 65h82...the Z3 shows its best picture with a 720p picture feed to it..the Toshiba looks best with 1080i feed to it.....maybe the native setting will work...Im not sure?

Another question???When the H20 scans for ota HD channels how many channels does it scan......my Samsung 160 only scans to channel 69 .......I hope that the H20 scans atleast to channel 100 when searching for digital channels!?Anybody care to check ?

I have 2 remotes (and two h-20 receivers). One control is working fine but the second control is not working, at all. . In little booklet it says the setup code for the Model h-10 is..0001, 0002. It does not list the set-up code for the model h-20. Neither 0001 or 0002 is working for me. Any ideas as to setup codes for the remote to the h-20?

Another question???When the H20 scans for ota HD channels how many channels does it scan......my Samsung 160 only scans to channel 69 .......I hope that the H20 scans atleast to channel 100 when searching for digital channels!?Anybody care to check ?The channel scan is searching for OTA digital broadcast channels you get with an antenna. Currently, the OTA broadcast channels are 2 thru 69. After analog is shut off on Feb 17, 2009, the OTA channels will only be from 2 thru 51 (Chs 52 thru 69 will be auctioned off for new wireless services like WiMax (http://www.answers.com/main/ntquery?s=wimax&gwp=13)).

So that's why the scan stops at channel 69.

I have 2 remotes (and two h-20 receivers). One control is working fine but the second control is not working, at all. . In little booklet it says the setup code for the Model h-10 is..0001, 0002. It does not list the set-up code for the model h-20. Neither 0001 or 0002 is working for me. Any ideas as to setup codes for the remote to the h-20?There's a remote setup in the onscreen menu.

Thanks for info. But, it seems, I must have the right code (s) to make the remote work with the h-20. As I stated the codes listed for h-10 does not work for h-20 (altho it seems they would).

Thanks for info. But, it seems, I must have the right code (s) to make the remote work with the h-20. As I stated the codes listed for h-10 does not work for h-20 (altho it seems they would).

How about setting them up in RF? Just step through the menu instructions, it is easy.

Sharon L. My main question is: What code do you use to connect with the h-20. All equipment you connect with needs a code (first) to be in contact with that piece of equipment. The code given for the remote and the h-10 seems not to work for me and no code is given for the h-20 Once connecting with the h-20 with the remote I am able to set up everything. I have another remote that works just fine. It connects with h-20. .

If you have an H20 and haven't setup the RF capability of the remote.....you're missing out big time. It should be mandatory in all remotes.

For RF, the code is given to you per receiver as you follow the directions from the menu. Go into the menu and select settings/setup/remote IR/RF setup and select RF. Then follow the directions and the codes will be shown to you. I have set up two remotes for one receiver this way.

Sharon: I am lazy. Can you tell me the codes for connecting the remote to the h-20. As stated I have 00001 and 00002 stated for the h-10 and no codes listed for the h-20. The code (s) you use to connect remote with the h-20? Thanks.

smackdaddy. I have one remote set up correctly; have been trying to get a second one working with the h-20. Need the 5 digit code for remote and h-20.

Anyone notice a problem with lipsync on the MPEG4 HD channels? I've had to reboot the receiver a few times tonight. It goes out by quite a bit.
This used to happen in my location, but has now diminished to nearly zero occurrences. I also used to have HD local channel audio dropouts regularly when set on Dolby sound. Those problems have disappeared as well.

Based on reports in Detroit, Chicago, Atlanta, San Fran, and other cities, it seems that once a new MPEG4 HD locals city is "launched", it takes about 30 - 60 days to "fine tune" things on the DirecTV end -- to eliminate these kinds of annoyances. As I recall, the lipsync problem went away when I moved up or down a few channels with the remote, and them came back to the one with the problem. I now get rock solid video & audio on all local HD channel broadcasts.
smackdaddy. I have one remote set up correctly; have been trying to get a second one working with the h-20. Need the 5 digit code for remote and h-20.
Each H20 remote comes with a tag on it that lets users know it has unique codes pre-programmed for the specific corresponding receiver (set up that way so if you have more than one of these remotes/receivers in your house, you don't confuse which one is for which receiver or click one remote and get multiple receivers to respond).

By the way - I had no problem getting my universal LCD remote to "learn" the H20 remote codes. [Of course, when you spend the kind of bucks I did for a remote ($1000), it better do that. It also controls all my other rack-mount equipment and IR lighting controls. ONE REMOTE for 6 devices and lighting. I know my wife and daughter sure like that, and it makes me a certified Class 1 couch potato - I only have to get up to eat or go to the bathroom - sad in a way really.]

One last H20 bit of info. I talked with the local install company's manager at some length in his office this past week, and he told me that the H20s run only a few degrees warmer than most previous HD receivers - but should NOT run HOT. They have replaced about 1 in 45 H20s for this reason They actualy now check them first before they do their installs, as well as download the latest firmware ahead of time - this lowers their install timeframes. If you have a HOT H20, it's probably one that came with a particular power supply made by a vendor no longer used - you may want to get a replacement if you can (under warranty). The H20 should not run HOT to the touch, only just as warm as any other device in your equipment arsenal. I guess my 3 neighbors and I were lucky - none of ours ever run HOT, even after 9-10 hours of continuous use.

smackdaddy. I have one remote set up correctly; have been trying to get a second one working with the h-20. Need the 5 digit code for remote and h-20.

The programming code for the remote is unique to each receiver it is mated with. Hence all five of mine have a unique code and all can be operated by RF remote and not interfere with any other.
If you have the remote currently set for RF, go through the process to set it for IR. Then go through the process to set it for RF using both remotes simultaneously. When you get to the step where you enter the unique code make sure to enter it in both remotes before you press the "Done" button. It took me a couple of attempts but it works nicely now.

Strange H20 Problem occurred last night. I was watching TV and I suddenly lost the picture and sound, both from the satellite and my OTA antenna. The on-screen menu and guide worked fine and all signal strengths were fine. I turned the receiver on and off and nothing helped. Finally, I tried the receiver reset option on the menu and after re-acquiring the signal, the picture and sound were back. Has anyone else had this happen, any idea what happened?

I just got 2 H20's this morning. Both found new software rebooted and are up and running. One unit was made in Korea the other in China. One is using component the other HDMI to DVI cable. Both have OTA from my antenna. So far so good. I do miss the Sony's SATHD100 and 300. I just have to get used to the non display of the H20's. The dish is kinda cool with the 5 LNB's

NON DISPLAY??????

No flourescent front panel display I mean.

Strange H20 Problem occurred last night. I was watching TV and I suddenly lost the picture and sound, both from the satellite and my OTA antenna. The on-screen menu and guide worked fine and all signal strengths were fine. I turned the receiver on and off and nothing helped. Finally, I tried the receiver reset option on the menu and after re-acquiring the signal, the picture and sound were back. Has anyone else had this happen, any idea what happened?How long have you had the H20?

If it happens again, unplug the box for a few minutes. That often helps if the box does something weird. You might want to do that anyway....

I hooked up my H20 receiver today with a 3LNB dish. Everything works great except the sound on some of the local channels and the channels in the 70s cuts out and makes an annoying chirping sound.

Has anyone else heard of this problem? Was I supposed to hook up the B Band Converter Module, or is that only for use with the 5LNB dish?

How long have you had the H20?

If it happens again, unplug the box for a few minutes. That often helps if the box does something weird. You might want to do that anyway....

I have had the box for about a month. I have already unplugged and so far so good.

Thanks

... the sound on some of the local channels and the channels in the 70s cuts out and makes an annoying chirping sound.

Has anyone else heard of this problem? Was I supposed to hook up the B Band Converter Module, or is that only for use with the 5LNB dish?
Haven't had a "chirping" sound on the 70s or 80s.

SAVE the B Band Converter Module in case you ever need to upgrade to a 5LNB dish.

The chirping seems to only happen on channels with Dolby Digital. In the setup I have DD turned off and I'm just using the TV speakers for audio. I don't know if it's a problem with the box or if this is a common problem. If no one else is having this problem I'll just take it back for a different one.

Until you can exchange the box, you can run L+R analog audio cables (RCA plugs on the ends) from the box to your stereo receiver and set the receiver to Dolby Pro Logic or DPL2, instead of Dolby Digital.

It's a good idea to have this backup connection anyway, in case you're having intermittent DD audio problems w/ a particular channel.

arxaw,

I'm not even using Dolby Digital. I have it turned off and I'm using analog L+R audio cables to the TV. And I'm still hearing chirping. I'll give DirecTV a call tomorrow and see what they say, but I'll probably exchange it for a new one.

Managed to fix and reauthorize my Sony HD200 -- TG.

Can someone help me sort this out? I'm moving into a new house in 6 weeks and currently working with the electrician on how to feed my 2 HDTV's. One of the TV's will have the H10-250 HDDVR and the other one a H20. I also have a ChannelMaster 4221 antenna in the attic that will be amplified with a 7777 amp. I'm not sure if I will get a 5 LNB dish or 3 LNB dish. I am also about to buy a ChannelVision CVT1515PIA amp for the RG6 run to the basement (where my homerun is - 100 ft)

My question: How should I structure my RG6 coming down from the roof into my homerun area. How many lines do I need coming down from the dish and antenna to support 2 HDTV's (one H10-250-dual tuners) and an H20. Is it right that I can't use splitters with the 5LNB dish? If so, how can I homerun that then? Where should I place the amp?

Please help. Thanks.

4 lines from the dish will feed all locations through a multiswitch. It sounds like you are building the house, if so I would futureproof yourself by runing 3 lines to each HDTV location in case you upgrade the H20 to a DVR plus if you get the 5LNB dish you wont be able to diplex the OTA so that would need a separate line.

... I'm not sure if I will get a 5 LNB dish or 3 LNB dish. ...

....

Please help. Thanks.

The word is here http://www.satelliteguys.us/showthread.php?t=55311 that on and after today, Feb. 6, all new installations of MPEG4 receivers will require the installation of the 5LNB AT9 dish regardless of whether reception of MPEG4 signals is available in your area. This has been confirmed by a well-informed dealer.

Dana

... Where should I place the [CM 7777] amp?

The CM 7777 preamp's "amp" module is installed on the antenna mast, close to the antenna itself.
The CM 7777 preamp's power brick can be installed near a 120v power source, anywhere in the antenna's downlead coax, before the coax gets to any distribution splitter points.

4 lines from the dish will feed all locations through a multiswitch. It sounds like you are building the house, if so I would futureproof yourself by runing 3 lines to each HDTV location in case you upgrade the H20 to a DVR plus if you get the 5LNB dish you wont be able to diplex the OTA so that would need a separate line.


This is good advice. However, I would run even more. I would run 3 lines to each potential future location.

In my main room I had lines run to each wall incase I wanted to reorganize the furniture. I ended up using all the lines at the same time cause I set up 3 tv's with 4 receivers for football. I put the extra tv's away now since football is over. But the extra lines are so convenient because now I have a R15(with 2 inputs) and a H20 all feeding the same TV.

Bottom line is put in as many lines as you can now while the house is being built!

Can someone help me sort this out? I'm moving into a new house in 6 weeks and currently working with the electrician on how to feed my 2 HDTV's. One of the TV's will have the H10-250 HDDVR and the other one a H20. I also have a ChannelMaster 4221 antenna in the attic that will be amplified with a 7777 amp. I'm not sure if I will get a 5 LNB dish or 3 LNB dish. I am also about to buy a ChannelVision CVT1515PIA amp for the RG6 run to the basement (where my homerun is - 100 ft)

My question: How should I structure my RG6 coming down from the roof into my homerun area. How many lines do I need coming down from the dish and antenna to support 2 HDTV's (one H10-250-dual tuners) and an H20. Is it right that I can't use splitters with the 5LNB dish? If so, how can I homerun that then? Where should I place the amp?

Please help. Thanks.

In my new home I ran 4 lines to every locations that could be used for HDTV.
1 line is for antenna.
1 line is for backfeeding receiver output to the connection center. This allows us to watch TV in other rooms from 1 receiver.
2 lines for HD Tivo or 2 tuners.

Do I need to use a multiswitch anywhere or is a 1 for 1 input to output? Is my only option the Zinwell WB68? Do I route the antenna through the multiswitch?

Thanks for the great feedback.

I hooked up my H20 to a different TV with all different cables and I still had the audio drop outs and chirping on the channels that have Dolby Digital. So I returned it for a different H20 receiver and the new one is working fine so far.

Do I need to use a multiswitch anywhere or is a 1 for 1 input to output? Is my only option the Zinwell WB68? Do I route the antenna through the multiswitch?

Thanks for the great feedback.

Don't route the antenna through a multiswitch, route antenna cable direct to each receiver.

Using the new 5LNB dish and one Zinwell WB68 will allow you to hook up 8 receivers or 2 tivos and 4 additional receivers etc....

Are the connectors for CAT5e and CAT6 the same. Will CAT6 plug into my Linksys router/DSL modem?

I ordered an H20 from DTV yesterday. They're coming to install it on Friday. Is it a piece of junk or what? Some people like it, other say it's garbage. I'm replacing my old HD Hughes box that overheats with the H20. I hear that the guide is very slow. Has there been a download that speeds it up yet?

Yes, the guide is slow, the interface is positively dreadful. But, the picture is gorgeous and the OTA is amazingly sensitive.

The remote is the FIRST remote I have ever had that came included with equipment that worked my TV, DirecTV, and Sony sound system. Man, I love that!

Didn't take me long to dance around the guide and I just cussed at the interface and got over it. Again, beautiful picture.

Does anyone know if there will be a download coming soon that might fix the slow guide?

Does anyone know if there will be a download coming soon that might fix the slow guide?
I think it is obvious that nobody knows, yet. Past experience with other DirecTV receivers that have slow guides makes me GUESS that it isn't going to be much faster. :eek:

The path toward a solution is to call customer support and ask for help with the guide. Don't demand anything. Be very innocent. Just tell them you can hardly use the guide. There is "something that I am doing wrong when I use it. I press a scroll button and it doesn't do anything until a couple of seconds later..." That sort of thing. I can't help but think that DirecTV is getting an earful on this very issue. I also find it curious that last weekend, I couldn't find the H20 receiver at the DirecTV website's HDTV product listings. Haven't checked lately, though.

I'm guessing this is a hardware issue related to a lousy buffering design of the memory that holds all the guide stuff. I just don't see how it is going to speed up. I would love to be wrong. :mad:

Solution is to move past the guide and enjoy the purty pictures. It is a free receiver and I guess I'm tolerant of the issue.

IMO its a poorly made piece of poop to put it mildly. I have 2 of these units I got last Saturday (2/4/06) DirecTV should recall every single unit! Did anyone bench test the unit in the factory? I would say not since they are made in Korea and China. Cheap labor! No offense to those countries. We get what we paid for. $0.00!! DirecTV should be ashamed to have such an outcry in their customer base. Customers that have been loyal since 1994 like myself. To have this gargage can of a receiver to work with. State of the art HD on a garbage can!

I paid over $800 for my Sony SATHD300 receiver a couple years ago, now that is a receiver! Quality made components back my Sony's reputation. They have their name on the unit.

There used to be a manufacturer years ago... I can't remember which. They used to have a commercial saying "The Quality goes in before the name goes on" What ever happend to that way of thinking?? I know, make it fast and make it cheap... The through away society we live in today... Its a shame.

Sorry for the soap box...
Kenn

I also have the Sony SAT HD300 and love it!

In actuality, is was manufactured by LG.

Sony just put it's name on it! When it was released, they had'nt manufactured
their own Direct products for a while.

The problem with the H20, as far as I can tell, is that although LG is one of the manufacturers, the design - the good and the bad - came from Direct. LG is merely
one of the companies putting these guys together. The various manufacturers had
no input into the design. Direct wanted complete control - they got it - and they
should now take complete responsibility!

Also, in a rush to market, Direct, obviously didn't spend enough time testing the H20
before releasing it.

Although some have pointed out that they payed $0 for the unit, and you get what you pay for, that's not completely correct. When you make a long-term financial commitment for Direct service, you are in a way, paying for the product. Nuthin's for nuthin!

Gary

Hey Gary,

I know LG makes the unit and DirecTV has control.. I made a long term commitment back in 1994 as I said. LOL! But in the rush to get to market they botched it big time. I know Sony has other MFG'ers making their product(s) I've been buying Sony ES components for years. Some good and some bad... Oh well.. I'm "beating a dead horse" here.
Let's see what happens... Maybe another software fix for a hardware problem will do the trick!

IMO its a poorly made piece of poop to put it mildly. I have 2 of these units I got last Saturday (2/4/06) DirecTV should recall every single unit! Did anyone bench test the unit in the factory? ...
Kenn
Wow! Other than the slow scroll and awful interface, what makes it such a poor unit? So far, mine has been working very well. Images have been marvelous.

I get equivalent picture quality w/a great interface from a unit made over three years ago. It's an irritating step backwards.

Wow! Other than the slow scroll and awful interface, what makes it such a poor unit? So far, mine has been working very well. Images have been marvelous.


Try using the favorites! HA! :)

I get equivalent picture quality w/a great interface from a unit made over three years ago. It's an irritating step backwards.
I'm pretty new on the MPEG 4 vs. MPEG 2 stuff and so forth so there's a lot of potential ignorance spewing from my mouth. I was under the impression that the H20 was an MPEG 4 unit which the older units, in spite of their better interfaces, are not. Help me on this...

Try using the favorites! HA! :)
HUH? I defined my favorites. FAV 1 is my main listing, FAV 2 is much smaller. They work just fine.

Of course, you gotta wade through the alleged "QUICK MENU", whatever that is :p , to get to the favorites menu change option. And, you don't get to preview the channel number as you are pondering whether to select/deselect it during favorites defining mode. That is really primitive. I really liked that option in my old RCA 450.

Caller ID works perfectly for me, in spite of issues that I have read here. But, that is about as far as it goes. In my RCA 450, it would list a name/number with the number of call occurances next to the name. This thing will list the name, over and over and over. If someone called several times in a row and hung up, they could completely scroll out your entire call list. Jeeeze...

I have already said the interface is positively dreadful. I don't see how anyone at DirecTV even screened the final interface to bless it. But, I love the H20's remote, I love the picture quality that this unit puts out.

Are the connectors for CAT5e and CAT6 the same. Will CAT6 plug into my Linksys router/DSL modem?


Yes.

Yes.

Pros:
H20 Picture Quality is outstanding, slightly better then my Sony HD-300.


Cons:
Slow menu speed.
Having to hit guide button twice or guide/select to get to the guide. This is a
waste of everyone's time. Directv should add a setting in the setup to turn off / on this filter!
Receiver will reboot if you click on a previous autotune event with no title.
Receiver won't turn on to start an Autotune event if you turn the receiver off ( red light on ) but plugged in. That is just stupid!

The best guides are still the Sony HD300/LG3200A/HTL-HD! Why didn't Directv use those guides ( GUI ) in the H20?

So, should I call back DTV and cancel my appointment to have the H20 installed? My Hughes E-86 is still working although I have a computer fan on top of it to keep it cool. It blew out once due to over heating. The E-86 turbo tune is still tops in the STB market.

... I hear that the guide is very slow. Has there been a download that speeds it up yet?No, no speed upgrade yet, and don't know if there will be one. Workaround: Use the unlabeled "blue button" on the remote that brings up a 1-line guide at the bottom of the screen. It is very fast.

If I were still using an E86 and were getting the H20 installed free, I would go ahead and get it just for the better picture quality and killer OTA tuner - despite this receiver's shortcomings.

You can keep the E86 and always re-activate it later if you can't live with the H20.

So, should I call back DTV and cancel my appointment to have the H20 installed? My Hughes E-86 is still working although I have a computer fan on top of it to keep it cool. It blew out once due to over heating. The E-86 turbo tune is still tops in the STB market.
I think it depends on what you want in a receiver. If you want a fast and perfect interface, it isn't for you. If you can work past the interface, then you'll like it.

If you are mentally strapped to an older DirecTV receiver that had a faster and better interface, and can't shake that, then you will not want it.

I like it. It has purty pictures. ;)

I know I said I love the H20 as far as PQ and ability to hold a signal. However, out of curiosity, I called directv HD tech support about the slow guide and he said "this is the first I am hearing of this, but I will alert our team". He said he checked their system and there were no "complaints". He logged it. I suggest we call 866-678-6664 and log a concern.
Also, maybe it's manufacturer related......I have the H20 600. Please report if the "slow guide" is encountered on the 200 and 400 models.

HEH........! Who you going to trust? grinnnn I called the 6664 phone number just now and played very dumb. Said that I enjoyed the picture quality and mentioned the positive values of the H20, then talked about the slow "changing of channels". I didn't mention the guide or interface design.
Just the changing of channels being slow.

The tech constantly agreed as I talked. Constantly said, yeah - yeah - yeah. He then said the H20 was going through "teething issues" since it was a new model. His words. Exactly. He said software upgrades in the future would fix this. I still played a bit dumb, maybe innocent would be the word. I asked if the H20's slow channel changing would be typical even in the future. He said, "Oh no... Not at all. Future upgrades will fix this."

I did not try to pin him down on dates. So, at least with the droid I talked to, I got acknowlegement of a problem that will be fixed. We-shall-see....

--Larry

Can you explain the difference between the H20 - 200, 400 and 600 models? Should I check it out first when the DTV guy comes in for the install and demand the 600 model?

Thanks...it's amazing how each rep from the same company will give a different answer.
Keep calling....we'll bug the heck out of them (flood them with calls) that they'll want to fix it just to keep us from calling and bugging them further. I call it "The PepBoy story"..... Ok, It goes like this. I was in Pepboy's getting new tires years ago. He told me 15-25 minutes...well, I knew better than to believe that. Luckily I had my three young children with me...and they are not shy about asking someone when will it be done. They must have asked the rep 25 times when will our car be done....after the "25th" time, the car was in the shop and tires changed in record time. If it was not for the heroics of my three children I would probably still be there waiting for my car....well, you get the idea!

Can you explain the difference between the H20 - 200, 400 and 600 models? Should I check it out first when the DTV guy comes in for the install and demand the 600 model?
I'm guessing the 600 model is the most current...

I called that number and they told me they hadn't heard of the slowness problem, couldn't take my complaint and transferred me to "advanced products" tech support, who also said they had had no complaints about guide slowness of the H20.

As far as I know, the H20 with a manufacturer code of 600 (= LG) is the only model.

Dana

$200 rebate?

Last week I called D* to inform them of my upcoming move and that I would need a new dish installed (scheduled for March 3rd). They're putting in a new 5LNB dish and gave me a H20 as well (to replace an existing HD receiver). All of it was free, and of course I'm re-upping with a 2yr commitment.

Yesterday, I got a rebate form in the mail for $200? How can I get something rebated to me that I haven't, or will not be, paying for?

The offer ends 2/28 of course (with my install and activation of that receiver on 3/3), but the order for the receiver and install was done this past week. I did not receive an order confirmation letter or email from them, so how could I go about taking advantage of this rebate offer? Any advice? Free money is always nice, hehe.

Of course, you can't actually use that form, which was sent by mistake.

You have to send in a receipt with it showing purchase of the H20, which of course, you don't have, since you didn't buy one.

This is the official lingo. Note Criteria #1, the "Purchase" part. You gotta purchase, buy, exchange funds:

To receive your DIRECTV® HD Rebate, please follow these steps:

1. Purchase a DIRECTV® HD System before 02/28/06.
2. Within 30 days of purchase, subscribe to the DIRECTV® HD package when you activate your DIRECTV HD System with a two-year programming commitment.
3. Fill out the $200 rebate form that you will receive from DIRECTV, attach your ORIGINAL dated sales receipt, a COPY of your DIRECTV bill and send it to:

Of course, you can't actually use that form, which was sent by mistake.

You have to send in a receipt with it showing purchase of the H20, which of course, you don't have, since you didn't buy one.

Define "purchase", hehe. I sold my TV soul to them for another 2 years. That's worth more than money IMO. ;)

Of course, you can't actually use that form, which was sent by mistake..
Well, you can download the form from the front page of the DirecTV website, but it has sufficient legalize printed on it.

Maybe they charged $200 to your bill and after you send the rebate then it's free...I would call and make sure. Directv has been known to mess up billings...No really, they have...LOL

Can you get a rebate for more than one H20?
I bought one a month ago,sent in the form,then decided to go with MPEG4 upgrade for free,(after instant rebate through them) with another new H20. Or are you limited to one per account?

slapshot,

The form says "Limit one rebate per receiver."

Dana

It also limits total rebates per account to $300. From the rebate form: "Limit one $100 rebate and one $200 rebate for a total of $300 per account. Limit one rebate per
receiver."

Hmmm. I just received my $100 rebate yesterday from AUGUST for my HD Tivo,and have a $200 rebate out there for my H20 and now with this other H20,perhaps I'm over my limit? What am I worried about,it'll be 6 months from now anyway if and when I receive anything again!

arxaw,

Good catch. Sorry I failed to include it.

Dana

Well I finally got too concerned with the heat prob with the H20 (the thing was getting so hot that I couldn't keep my hand on top of it) so called D*. They seemed to be aware of the prob and are sending a new one so we'll see if it solves the problem. Also took the opportunity to complain about the "slow" menus and channel changing (but man is that OTA tuner excellent!).

JC

Well I finally got too concerned with the heat prob with the H20 (the thing was getting so hot that I couldn't keep my hand on top of it) so called D*. They seemed to be aware of the prob and are sending a new one so we'll see if it solves the problem. Also took the opportunity to complain about the "slow" menus and channel changing (but man is that OTA tuner excellent!).

JC

I have read elsewhere that some H20s have power supply component problems. Mine runs at a normal temp. And I agree completely with your comments about OTA reception. Actually, I think PQ is better than my Sammy 360 period.

Dana

Well I finally got too concerned with the heat prob with the H20 (the thing was getting so hot that I couldn't keep my hand on top of it) so called D*. They seemed to be aware of the prob and are sending a new one so we'll see if it solves the problem. Also took the opportunity to complain about the "slow" menus and channel changing (but man is that OTA tuner excellent!).

JC


See, if you were "really smart" you would put a fan on top of your H20 pulling the heat away from the box and heating your house while your watching TV...in the long run this would be a very cost effective way to heat your house and have an excuse to watch tv. :D

I agree, my H20 gets warmer than I would expect it to be, but not "hot". There should be some type of small and efficient fan on these units.(air flow...DUH) brilliant engineers!!!

See, if you were "really smart" you would put a fan on top of your H20 pulling the heat away from the box and heating your house while your watching TV...in the long run this would be a very cost effective way to heat your house and have an excuse to watch tv. :D

I agree, my H20 gets warmer than I would expect it to be, but not "hot". There should be some type of small and efficient fan on these units.(air flow...DUH) brilliant engineers!!!


I knew that I was missing something! :D

... this would be a very cost effective way to heat your house and have an excuse to watch tv...But what about summer? http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/images/icons/icon4.gif

Can you explain the difference between the H20 - 200, 400 and 600 models? Should I check it out first when the DTV guy comes in for the install and demand the 600 model?
From what D* tech support told me the only one available at this time is the 600.

This question pertains to a 'gray' area. I am using an h-20 receiver and we tune in XM radio quite a bit of the time. Except for 1-2 records, Directv does not show on the screen the information of the track being played from XM radio. In my car, the information from the track is displayed each time a new delection comes up. Do others have this nagging problem when playing channels located in the low 800s? As I remember the information from Music Choice was displayed. I am wondering 'why not' from XM.

It must be an H20 issue, on both my 3200A at home and an old RCA at work I get the track info.

longrider. Thank you. I am thinking it is a problem of h-20. I have 2 of them not putting up the information. Is anyone here, with h-20 getting the track info for XM radio?

Back to the rebate issue......I did download the rebate form and sent in the original receipt for the HD20 along with other information required on the rebate form. But then yesterday I received a letter from D* noting my purchase, etc. and then asking me to fill out the "original" rebate form, submit the receipt, etc.....should I just ignore this?

Back to the rebate issue......I did download the rebate form and sent in the original receipt for the HD20 along with other information required on the rebate form. But then yesterday I received a letter from D* noting my purchase, etc. and then asking me to fill out the "original" rebate form, submit the receipt, etc.....should I just ignore this?Are you saying D* sent you another rebate form? If they didn't mention they had received your first rebate submission, ignore it. That's what I did, and I got my rebate check after using a form printed off the web.

If you don't receive your rebate or are denied, call DirecTV and ask to speak to customer retention. They will give you a $200 credit on your bill in lieu of the rebate check.

...Sooooo, I grabbed some scrap coax, bent a 2' loop of #12 copper wire and made a loop, soldered it all together. Did an antenna scan and WOW! I picked up 5 stations! ....
I'll get a real antenna soon to get things done right, but this abolutely delighted me.
OK, y'all... my homebrew HDTV local station antenna has been officially retired. I actually moved it outside a few days ago, but birds kept pecking at the aluminum foil and I lost two local HDTV stations as a result.

Soooo, I purchased a Wineguard Squareshooter SS-2000 from SolidSignal. Mounted it on a back deck hand rail. Didn't pull any additional stations, but the signal strength is much higher.

And I don't have to worry about tweaking with aluminum foil!

Some people have mentioned about slow menu speeds. I wonder if they have seen an HD Tivo. :-) I think the H20 menus are incredibly faster then the HD Tivo and I found them to be quite responsive.

My H20 runs hotter than other DirecTV receivers I've owned but not so hot I can't keep my hand on it.

Chris

Just called DTV level 2 support and complained about heat. They are sending me another unit. This will be my 3rd one. How hot should they be? I leave mine on 24/7 and the top is very hot. I cannot keep my hand on it.Hopefully this one will be a little cooler. Tech said that this was his first complaint call. I find that very hard to believe

Just called DTV level 2 support and complained about heat. They are sending me another unit. This will be my 3rd one. How hot should they be? I leave mine on 24/7 and the top is very hot. I cannot keep my hand on it.Hopefully this one will be a little cooler. Tech said that this was his first complaint call. I find that very hard to believe

It may have been his first call about H20 heat. But clearly it isn't D*s first call. See more here http://www.satelliteguys.us/showthread.php?t=54421

Dana

I also got the H20 as a replacement for an old HD IRD, a Hughes E86 (I loved the Hughes remote, menus and speed and I've actually had a total of 5 Hughes branded IRDs because of these features). I do notice that the menus on the H20 and the guide are clunky, but the HDMI and better OTA reception are nice. The big problem I'm having is with the functionality of the RF remote. It is intermitant at best. The box is behind about 1/2" of plywood in an armoire and is having serious issues with responding to the remote. Has anyone else had this problem? I still have a Hughes E86 downstairs and that remote works through a floor and 4 walls into the garage.

...The big problem I'm having is with the functionality of the RF remote. It is intermitant at best.
I had issues with mine as well until I started checking things out in the house. I have a wireless outdoor thermometer and the receiver was about a foot from the H20. I turned the thermometer off and the problem went away. I then moved the receiver to the other end of the room and the problem was still gone.

I moved the thermometer receiver back to its old location and the problem returned.

So, for ME, this solved the problem. Wireless interference **might** be the problem. My remote easily can control my H20 reliably 20 feet away. But until I isolated my problem, I had to use the infrared.

...My H20 runs hotter than other DirecTV receivers I've owned but not so hot I can't keep my hand on it.
Likewise, mine is warmer than other receivers I have had, but not hot.

Yeah, I turned off an RF AV signal sender in the same cabinet and the problem seemed to get better, but still isn't good. The point is that an RF remote is supposed to work "through walls" like the old one did. I wonder if the new one is 900mhz or something and therefore screwed by everything else in my house. I have 3 wireless phones, wireless (b) router, and the AV sender. I complained today and they'll send me a new remote to see if that fixes it, but I bet it won't. Sounds like its way too sensitive to accepting interference.

By the way, the CSR says tat nobody has complained about a slow guide or menus. This was as of 5 minutes ago. Does anyone from DTV ready these boards? :eek:

OK, my working remote.... I have a 900 mhz phone, no 2.4 ghz phone. I also have wireless 802.11 in the house. There is nothing else wireless in the house other than the cell phone. No wireless speakers.

I reliably change the receiver from anywhere within the house.

I still maintain interference is the culprit. Question would be, what is it? I would suggest killing all the wireless items and comparing. And I wouldn't give up. The antenna can be removed and replaced by a better antenna, or even relocated. But, you'll need to find a wire-head who knows how to rig that up.

Regarding the tech support and slow menu answers or lack thereof from tech support. My guy admitted to a problem. Wonder why? I have been subscribing to HDTV since 1995. As soon as I mentioned "slow channel changing", the first guy apologized and transferred me over to the "yeah-yeah-yeah" guy I mentioned.

... Is anyone here, with h-20 getting the track info for XM radio?Yes.
When I hit the INFO button, there it is; song track artist, etc.

OK, my working remote.... I have a 900 mhz phone, no 2.4 ghz phone. I also have wireless 802.11 in the house. There is nothing else wireless in the house other than the cell phone. No wireless speakers.

I reliably change the receiver from anywhere within the house.

I still maintain interference is the culprit. Question would be, what is it? I would suggest killing all the wireless items and comparing. And I wouldn't give up. The antenna can be removed and replaced by a better antenna, or even relocated. But, you'll need to find a wire-head who knows how to rig that up.

Regarding the tech support and slow menu answers or lack thereof from tech support. My guy admitted to a problem. Wonder why? I have been subscribing to HDTV since 1995. As soon as I mentioned "slow channel changing", the first guy apologized and transferred me over to the "yeah-yeah-yeah" guy I mentioned.

Microwave ovens use ~2.5Ghz, they can interfere with 802.11b/g, 2.4Ghz phones, etc. I don't know the frequency of the RF remote, but that could be a problem source.

Don't know if this is the proper place to post this H-20 problem. Last evening I could not get our local FOX channel via OTA. Signal meter was in high 60's. All other local broadcast via OTA were coming in fine. Any insight into this?

anyone getting audio sync problem with thier H20 for locals?

Don't know if this is the proper place to post this H-20 problem. Last evening I could not get our local FOX channel via OTA. Signal meter was in high 60's. All other local broadcast via OTA were coming in fine...Try unplugging the box for a minute or so, then plugging it back in. Also try rescanning for local OTA channels. This is occasionally necessary if a local station has done some changes to their signal.

If the above doesn't help and your other stations are fine, it's likely a problem at the local station.

Thanks, will try all options!

Don't know if this is the proper place to post this H-20 problem. Last evening I could not get our local FOX channel via OTA. Signal meter was in high 60's. All other local broadcast via OTA were coming in fine. Any insight into this?


Ok, I don't want to burst anyone's bubble, but I am beginning to think that the OTA reciever is not as great as everyone thinks it is. I did an experiment with the OTA. Even though the major networks are 98%-100%, some of the other local networks that were "fine" on my DTC-100, cut out at or break up @ 50% signal strength on the H20. the DTC-100 would hold a signal in the low 30's. I know it all depends on weather conditions, etc....but cutting out at 50% may be an indicator that the H20's antenna signal meter is not accurate as well.

By the way, I know everyone mentions that 70's is a good signal strength for the H20. How come transponder 18 shows 99%-100% while all others on the 101 sat show mid to upper 70's? My old recievers also showed transponder 18 to ALWAYS read the highest. Is there a way to "lock onto" this transponder Like the old boxes did ?

... Is there a way to "lock onto" this transponder Like the old boxes did ?
You don't "lock onto" a transponder. Each transponder carries multiple channels and the box automatically changes transponders as you change channels.

It's a spot beam for your local area only. The concentration increases the strength. I think one of the reasons the H20 went to a lower scale than most is the typical 100 reading on spot beams. Lowering the scale allows a real comparison of spot beam strength. Numbers cannot be compared between different receivers since they use differing scales. No receiver can lock a transponder. Each transponder carries a specific set of channels. Pick a channel and you get that transponder. The user can only change transponders to check them. Exit the menu and whatever channel is playing will come from the transponder to which it is assigned. http://www.widemovies.com/dtvtransponders.html shows what channels are assigned to what transponders on the Ku band satellites.

Pat,

Rain fade excepted, what do you think the minimum signal strength would be for reliable reception of spot-beam locals? Like for someone living on the "edge" of a local spot beam who wanted to sub to those locals....

Pat,

Rain fade excepted, what do you think the minimum signal strength would be for reliable reception of spot-beam locals? Like for someone living on the "edge" of a local spot beam who wanted to sub to those locals....

I'd like to know as well, because it seems that the local channels have the most resistance to rain fade. It seems that channels 99 and above will say "searching for signal" while the locals (via Directv) will stay on through the entire storm. Why, may I ask? Different sat location and slightly out of the storms path or the ability of the "spot beam" to penetrate through the storms?

It's a spot beam for your local area only. The concentration increases the strength. I think one of the reasons the H20 went to a lower scale than most is the typical 100 reading on spot beams. Lowering the scale allows a real comparison of spot beam strength. Numbers cannot be compared between different receivers since they use differing scales. No receiver can lock a transponder. Each transponder carries a specific set of channels. Pick a channel and you get that transponder. The user can only change transponders to check them. Exit the menu and whatever channel is playing will come from the transponder to which it is assigned. http://www.widemovies.com/dtvtransponders.html shows what channels are assigned to what transponders on the Ku band satellites.

This is quite useful. Is anybody aware of a similar chart for the Ka band (103)?

Ok, Im a bit late to the H20 discussions, but I have 2 questions that hopefully someone can help me with.

1) is the remote for the H20 only an RF remote or is it selectable between RF and IR?

2) How do i directly tune an OTA digital channel? On my Sony SAT HD-100, there is a button for a decimal point. i.e. I want to go to channel 11.1 so i enter 1-1-.-1- enter, and I go to 11.1.

Can this be done with the H20? is there a decimal point button on the remote?
Anyone figure our a discreet code for that function?

Thanks
Bob
Westminster, MD

Ok, Im a bit late to the H20 discussions, but I have 2 questions that hopefully someone can help me with.

1) is the remote for the H20 only an RF remote or is it selectable between RF and IR?

2) How do i directly tune an OTA digital channel? On my Sony SAT HD-100, there is a button for a decimal point. i.e. I want to go to channel 11.1 so i enter 1-1-.-1- enter, and I go to 11.1.

Can this be done with the H20? is there a decimal point button on the remote?
Anyone figure our a discreet code for that function?

Thanks
Bob
Westminster, MD


1. It is selectable RF and IR through the menu.

2. Look at the very bottom of the remote,there is a dash there you press,ie,7 dash 1.

Bob,

1) The H20 has an IR remote that can be reprogrammed as an RF remote. There is an RF antenna for the box included.

2) Yes, there is a key with a dash so you can enter 13-1 for example. No need for a code.

Dana

This is quite useful. Is anybody aware of a similar chart for the Ka band (103)?


This is what I've been asking on the DirecTV MPEG4 Installation & Hardware - Master Topic thread. Apparently not,or it's top secret. If someone that has the new setup could chime in and let us know if he "sees" any other transponders at his particular location it would give us something to go on.

I'd like to know as well, because it seems that the local channels have the most resistance to rain fade....Why, may I ask?

Because the spot beam for locals is focused, increasing strength of that transponder. [Re-read Greywolf's post above]

2) How do i directly tune an OTA digital channel? On my Sony SAT HD-100, there is a button for a decimal point. i.e. I want to go to channel 11.1 so i enter 1-1-.-1- enter, and I go to 11.1.
Hit the dash button, or 11-1.

Most OTA receivers use a dash - not a decimal . Sony insists on giving things different names than other mfgs.

Pat,

Rain fade excepted, what do you think the minimum signal strength would be for reliable reception of spot-beam locals? Like for someone living on the "edge" of a local spot beam who wanted to sub to those locals....I really don't know. I imagine, using arbitrary numbers, if a receiver lost reliable reception at 50 during a rain fade event, a local channel would also depart at 50. It would depend on the receiver and how it reports the scale.

Bob,

1) The H20 has an IR remote that can be reprogrammed as an RF remote. There is an RF antenna for the box included.

2) Yes, there is a key with a dash so you can enter 13-1 for example. No need for a code.

Dana


Ok, thank you. is this dash to the left of the Zero button?

A neighbor just got the HD Tivo box and there is no dash on the remote.

I again had the trouble with my receiver loosing both picture and sound last night. This morning my local channels were breaking up bad, especially NBC. I came home from work and things were no better even after a hard reboot so I called DirecTV. I actually got someone who seemed to understand the H20 and the problems that people are complaining about. He did list the cities, e.g. Atlanta, where they know they are having problems. He did a "Reset" of my signal and it did fix my problems with local channels and specified that if the picture/sound problem continues they will replace my receiver. He also said there will be a software update in the near future that will attempt to fix some of the signal breakup complaints, but specified it will be a minor update.

A neighbor just got the HD Tivo box and there is no dash on the remote.

There's a dash on the HD Tivo remote. It's the same button as the skip button (the one you can hack to make 30sec skip). Above the button it should show this: (-)

Ok, thank you. is this dash to the left of the Zero button?
YES.

A neighbor just got the HD Tivo box and there is no dash on the remote.
It should have a dash button for sub channel direct entry.

[This thread is about the H20, which is *not* an HD Tivo or DVR.]

Ok, thank you. is this dash to the left of the Zero button?

A neighbor just got the HD Tivo box and there is no dash on the remote.

Yes, the dash button on the H20 remote is to the left of the Zero button.

Dana

Add the Philly stations to the list of Dolby problems. On my local channel package (Philly), NBC lipsynching is off... plus sound and picture dropouts every few minutes/every half hour. When this happens my dolby receiver goes into "unlock" mode and decodes the dolby digital again. It also affects the picture for a few seconds, feezing it or breaking it up. As soon as I didn't use my Dolby receiver and used my tv's (Sony Wega 30" Widescreen HDTV) audio, I haven't had any picture or audio dropouts. This only happens on local channels. Channels 70-79 are near perfect.

Yep, I'm in the Philly area and watched "LOST" last night. The lipsync was SO bad it was not watchable. It was about 1.5-2 seconds behind. I went to the "national feed" via New York. I am starting to dislike this box. I am getting drop outs...first started only on HD locals now I am getting drop outs on Nickelodeon, all HD stations,etc. This is really getting annoying and I am losing patience. The picture on the box is incredible on HD and sd and the features are simple and straight forward. But I am going to call and complain. It was a little embarressing while watching the Superbowl (25 people at my house) and the picture would drop. One of my friend's said sarcastically, "I thought you said Directv rarely loses signal...." I'll tell you this much, Directv lost any chances of getting 25 new customers!!!!

The lip sync thing is really weird.
I get it sometimes, sometimes I don't and for the most part rarely do. However, the local NBC affiliate has the weird occurances.

I had a lag of about 2 seconds during the LOCAL evening news. Then that station popped in a string of commercials. The commercials were perfect. No sync issues.

Then when the commercials ended and resumed back to the studio doing the news, the lip synch issues were amazingly bad. Then the station popped in a taped field report for about 30 seconds. Perfect.

Now, back to live to the studio. Lip synch issues.

I went to the non-HDTV DirecTV channel of the same NBC affiliate and everything was perfect.

So, I dunno. Not sure how to isolate this. But, I called and complained.

Be sure to call and complain on every occurance. Don't let this stuff simmer. I have been a customer of DirecTV since 1995 and there are teething pain issues when new stuff is introduced. But, call and complain. They need to hear it.

mikelets456, tell them Bostonians "aint" happy either! And I just had two box's installed.

I've been with them since 94.

I just got off the phone with directv and she said "we have no known issues with the H20 boxes." I did not know if I wanted to laugh (sarcastically) or blow up. They said they'll send a tech...I explained this is a problem that is known by avs and many other forums. She had NO CLUE!!! Anyway, they will send another box and have a technician check the LNB's...blah, blah, blah....

Keep calling guys....the 866 # that I mentioned on page 39 of this post. I don't know what I'll do if this problem persists. This is unexcusable and annoying!!!! I'm ready to send everything back and hook up my DTC-100 and get OTA only. Will save me $55 a month.

I knew I always HATED LG products!!! (Lucky Goldstar)...I never liked Golstar products...even if it does have to meet Directv "standards". Sorry, I'm just getting fed-up. I got more important thing to do than call directv every other day.....sorry for the rant.

Don't blame LG - the Sony SAT HD300, designed and manufactured by LG, along with its own version of the receiver, are highly regarded. Just try to buy a used one today and see what you'll have to pay.

The fault is with Direct. The design is flawed and the H20's release was way too soon!

Gary

mikelets, It's not LG's fault. Their previous D* boxes have been excellent. They also make the best OTA tuners.

The problem is D* contracted LG to build this box to D*'s specs, not LG's.

Sorry, I did not mean to offend anyone. Just ranting I guess. My apologies.

No offense at all...

I have recently upgraded to D* MPEG 4 H20 receivers on two TV sets. Had the MPEG 2 receivers before but wanted the locals in HD. Since upgrading, I have frequent interuptions in signal (pixalation to dark screen and no audio). Usually doesn't last more than 10 seconds but very annoying. I am getting signal strenghts on multiple transponders of each satellite of 80+. anyone experiencing the same problem? Happens on both recievers.

Waaay before I discovered this list, I dug around on the DirecTV website, looking at the products. I was aware about MPEG4 products that were showing up and in January, the H20 was prominently listed on the front page, and in the products listing.

I then GOOGLED around and discovered avsforum, read the many pages of messages here, and then saw the huge rebate and decided to purchase the H20. And, for the most part, I haven't had no where near the problems that many of you have had here with your H20s. Beginner's luck, I suppose.

Anyway, I can no longer find the H20 at the DirecTV website. No where! In fact sentences have links removed directing to a HDTV sat receiver that is NOT a DVR.

I find it curious...

I find the following listed here http://www.directv.com/DTVAPP/imagine/HDTV_equipment.jsp

"4. DIRECTV now offers locals in HD in select makets. Click here to see if locals in HD are available from DIRECTV in your area. If DIRECTV offers locals in HD in your market you will need a H20 model DIRECTV HD Receiver that is MPEG - 4 capable and 5 LNB satellite dish that is ka/ku compatible."

Dana

Here's the primary HDTV entry point:
http://www.directv.com/DTVAPP/imagine/HDTV.jsp

where you'll find the fol. HD LIL entry point:
http://www.directv.com/DTVAPP/imagine/HDTV_localchannels.jsp

To find User Guide for H20 (and others):
http://www.directv.com/DTVAPP/learn/Manuals.jsp

and special adverts for CBS-HD and FOX-HD:
http://www.directv.com/see/landing/cbs_hd.html
http://www.directv.com/see/landing/fox_hd.html


PS: It's easy with Google Toolbar's "Search within webpage" feature....

Ran the antenna through the H20 and it picks up OTA really well. Yes its a lot easier with the channels integrated into the H20 menu. Thanks.

i too have done this but there is no program guide information for the ota's. is this normal or am i not doing something right?

thanks.

Did you enter your local zip code in setup? If you get OTA stations from more than one city, enter a 2nd ZIP code in the secondary local network field.

From the usermanual:
"1. Press MENU.
2. Press SELECT on Settings in the Quick Menu.
3. Select Setup in the Quick Menu.
4. Select Sat & Ant from the options on the left menu.
5. Press SELECT on the Antenna Setup button. If you have not selected your local networks yet, select
the Local Networks button and follow the instructions until you are done.
6. Select the Scan for Channels button to have the receiver scan local off -air frequencies."

If you did all this, and still don't have guide info after 24 hrs, repeat the guided setup or rescan for local channels.

I've had two H20s since the first week of January. For the most part, the bugs have been ironed out. But I am still getting digital breakup of my local HD channels on my larger LCD projection set. I do not get this breakup on the national HD channels or the premium movie HD channels. Strangely, I do not get this breakup at all on my upstairs 32-inch LCD set connected via HDMI. Initially, I had the larger set connected via component, so I switched to a HDMI-DVI cable. Unfortunately, no change. D* agreed to send a tech out to my house a week from tomorrow after making me go through the usual bull with them over the phone (reset button) check connections etc.
I'm also still having some audio issues with the optical out. There are times when audio disappears for several seconds, and my pre/pro begins to search for the signal.

....
PS: It's easy with Google Toolbar's "Search within webpage" feature....

Yeah, I use that thing, but not during that search. Basically, I think I was just lamenting over the fact that the H20 was no longer in a prominent display as it was during January. Sorta made me wonder what was happening with it.

I like it. Been a great box for me.

However, I did have an issue with the house cat. Before I put a cat-barrier around my H20, the cat decided to sleep on it one evening. My H20 was turned off. This does prove that it gets warmer after it is turned on.

I turned the H20 on.... :rolleyes:

After about five minutes, I watched the cat and its tail began twitching as it slept. Suddenly, it jumped, screeched, and abandoned its sleeping post. I put my hand on the receiver. It was very warm, but not hot. However, the cat wasn't all too happy.

Maybe they've quit actively promoting the H20 on their web site because DirecTV is switching to an equipment leasing business model March 1. The H20 rebate program ends 2/28/06.

Question: Is the 5 LNB dish that much bigger than the 3 LNB? Can it use the same mounts as the 3 LNB? Also, do you need a new multiswitcher? I have the eight output type.

Question: Is the 5 LNB dish that much bigger than the 3 LNB? Can it use the same mounts as the 3 LNB?
It is about 1/3rd larger and requires a larger mount. You won't be using the same mounting holes as the 3LNB. Footprint is much larger.

The AT9 dish requires a 2" OD post.

Question: Is the 5 LNB dish that much bigger than the 3 LNB? Can it use the same mounts as the 3 LNB? Also, do you need a new multiswitcher? I have the eight output type.


The 5 LNB dish is also quite a bit heavier, at 32 lbs. It requires a new 6x8 multiswitch. More comparative info here http://www.solidsignal.com/satellite/directv_dish_antenna_types.asp

Dana

'casue we don't want so me knuckle dragger drilling into our houses to mount the beast- LOL

Kidding aside- will you be able to sell for people to self install- or is professional installation required?

do you have a projected cost? Ballpark is cool- I'm wondering if it's $50, $100, or $500?

Check Ebay, i jsut orders a 5LNB for 65$ and will install it myself. Directv wanted to sell me one for 99$

I recently bought a H20 modle ending in 600. I was adding it to my room for HD chanels only. I still have the other reciever hooked up which is a sony SAT-T60 DVR. I have 2 lines running into that reciever and had to change it to only one and use the other one for the new H20. One thing i noticed is that the signal strength differs greatly from the Old and New reciever. if I check the Signal strength on the H20 i'm getting between 72 and 83 on all Sat and transponders. now with the old reciever the SAT-T60 i am getting anywhere from 92 to 100 on the Signal strength. is there a problem with the new reciever? or is that normal to get that big of a difference?

The two units are not on the same scale. The H20 apparently understates signal strength as compared with prior units. (Perhaps older units overstated signal strength?)

Watched the Olympics last night on LA MPEG4 HD. The picture was amazing, but, on about 6 occassions over a 4 hour period I lost total audio and video, went to a blue screen and eventually restored audio and video. Has anyone else experienced this. By the way, my signal strength is 100% and no wind, rain or obstructions.

Thanks

I lost audio too but didnt get the BSoD :)

NBC really seems to be having some issues tonight (Saturday). Drops outs, freeze-ups. They are currently broadcasting at 3 X 4 to at least get a decent image. I can't get NBC OTA, so am not sure if this is the Houston station having the problem, or DirecTV.

When the H20 is set to native resolution, and you have a D* Lite 1280x1080i signal, how does it output to the tv? 1920x1080i or 1280x1080i?
Thanks,
Josh

When the H20 is set to native resolution, and you have a D* Lite 1280x1080i signal, how does it output to the tv? 1920x1080i or 1280x1080i?
Thanks,
Josh

when set at native passthrough, 1080i is still seen as 1920x1080i or 1920x540p on the LCD panels. So, I'm not sure if the HD-Lite is just a rumor or a future plan.... Supposedly, all D* 1080i should be HD-Lite....right?

NBC really seems to be having some issues tonight (Saturday). Drops outs, freeze-ups. They are currently broadcasting at 3 X 4 to at least get a decent image. I can't get NBC OTA, so am not sure if this is the Houston station having the problem, or DirecTV.

NBC in DC is doing the same thing. D* eventually went to the SD. Looks like it's a NBC problem.

... Supposedly, all D* 1080i should be HD-Lite....right?Currently, it is. And it the difference is noticeable on my display when compared to local HD OTA w/ antenna, especially on scenes with lots of motion.

Interesting info on D* downrezzing, and their bitrates vs OTA bitrates in Dallas market may be found here:
http://www.widemovies.com/dfwbitrate.html

hi:

Just my 2 cents. I am reading thru this entire thread. I am currently up to page 35. I am having the H20 & 5 LNB installed on the 2/20. I am relatively new to the forum and definitely new to D*. (see I'm learning the symbols hehe).

Anyway I think that its a BIG BIG plus if all members would put the location (city, zipcode, something) of where they are located in their profiles so that it is displayed with your name on the left side of a post. There are so many many posts in this thread where a member says they are having problems receiving OTA or this channel or that satellite, meter readings and the list goes on. Just a suggestion and it takes as long as the H20 slow guides, hehe.

Hopefully they fixed those slow guide with a firmware upgrade. I don't know this yet cause I still have 8 more pages to read...REGARDS

As of today, the slow guide and channel changing problems have not been fixed. And if past receivers with the same problems are any indication, they may never get fixed.

D* subscriber since 1995....