... I am generally pleased with the image/sound quality (when its working) but HATE the user interface...

I think everyone here is in agreement that D* dropped the ball on user friendliness of the H20's UI. Anyone at D* read this forum?


...and channel after channel just says "DTV" with no indication as to what it actually is.

If the guide hasn't downloaded within 24 hrs, unplug the box, wait a few seconds and reconnect to power. The box will reboot. If that doesn't help, call D*

..You dont need a HDTV to connect the H20 to. just get a run of the mill tv and hook it up and activate it...
Totally agree. My old 10-year old Sony TV has taken on new life with this H20. It has NEVER displayed imaging as good before, including S-video from the DVD player. I'm very pleased with the H20. I don't worry much about the dreadful interface. I just like watching the purty pictures.

To be honest, I hadn't even considered tipping the tech anything. I don't believe people should tip someone for simply doing their jobs... Do you tip the guy taking your order at McDonalds? Should you tip your garbage man?

......

Wow you are really cheap. I always give the kids at Mcdonalds some change and my garbage man gets a big xmas tip also. I gave the sattelite installation guy(THEY INSTALLED AN EXTRA LINE FOR A FUTURE DVR) 40 bucks and his helper 20. I love tipping. I do well in life and enjoy paying a little extra when i get quality service

YMMV

I think any time someone does more than they "have to" when doing work for you, you should let them know it's appreciated. And a tip is not out of line.

Same for dealing with phone suport people . If one is helpful to you, of course you can't tip them, but at least let them know you appreciate their help.

I don't have any HD TV set... just a regular old SD TV right now.

I'm worried that if I don't "activate" my new H20 receiver before March 1st --- the rebate deal will not be honored. So, even though I am paying for a D* service I can't use (until the new plasma gets here) --- it seems like the right thing to do. Unless, the tech says he can't install it without a HD capable TV or monitor.

I could go steal my sisters HD set for a week or so, but that darned thing is heavy! :eek:

Do ya figure that $2 would be enough green to entice the tech? :D

The first tech that came out would not do anything unless I had the HDTV ready to go. My SXRD50 had not been delivered yet. He bailed. I called D* and they told me the tv was necessary to make sure everything worked properly. I didnt believe them but I understand.

So I rescheduled. Needless to say that when that tech actually finished that everything did not work properly.

3rd times the charm :) The 3rd encounter got me a knowledgable installer who actually put the wires and dish where I wanted it and not where it would be easiest for him. We, and I mean "WE" re-ran some of the coax cables in the house so they were more discrete and to my liking.

He did things during his visit that I dont believe he had to do so I tipped him for the extra effort. Its worth it to me when you get a little more than you expect.

My 2 cents...

The 5lnb dish will replace the 3lnb that I currently am using...


I kept my 3LNB in addition to my 5LNB. I use the 3LNB for the SD uses in the house and the 5LNB for the HD stuff. I have my house wired for 10 TV's and actually use 8. ( hard to explain but they all get used ). By keeping both I am able to do what I want without needing any multiswitches, YET.

After all it was my 3LNB dish. Why not leave it up? It would just collect dust in the garage or get thrown in the dumpster if I took it down.

It was a good decision I believe.

Anyone able to come up with a remote code that will work with the Syntax Olevia LT37HVS 37" yet ?
My older receivers at least had Syntax listed ... but nothing on the HD20 ???
Rather odd as these have actually become more available and popular. :confused:

Anyone able to come up with a remote code that will work with the Syntax Olevia LT37HVS 37" yet ?
My older receivers at least had Syntax listed ... but nothing on the HD20 ???
Rather odd as these have actually become more available and popular. :confused:

Taken from the Syntax website:

Q: I want to use my universal remote control with the Olevia LCD TV, what is the code for the universal remote control?

A: Universal remote control manufacturers specify different code for the various television brands out there. Please check with the manufacturer's list for codes listed under RCA, YAMAHA, LG, or Philips televisions. Any code listed under the RCA, YAMAHA, LG, or Philips will work.

both my h20's are in some sort of a reboot loop. 3 so far.

4th one coming up! WTF???

Same reboot problem here in NW Arkansas, but only one of mine (newest one) is doing it. It seems to do it when I go from a D* channel to an OTA channel.

I was ready to rip the damned thing out and take it back to Circuit City for exchange. Guess I'll wait and see what's going on....

both of mine did it 6 times. I unplugged the units... plugged the cards and started up. They stopped.. Still the same firmware 0F06... I figured with all that booting it was going to change.. So iahve no idea why they were caughtin a boot loop..

Talked with DTV. They were aware of the reset loop problem, but no fix info. At first they wanted to send me anaother replacement unit, but later admitted they have a software problem.
I found that the problem happened whenever I tuned to a specific OTA channel. So the fix I found was to cancel the "acquiring data" screen and tune to a different channel. Reset with red button, and then it was OK -- UNLESS -- I again tuned to the specific (11-1, in my case) OTA channel.

I know from this forum that the AT9 needs a 2"OD pole/post for mounting. My pole is approx. two and one quarter inches OD. I looked at the installation manual, but couldn't tell if the clamp to the mast was of the compression type and therefore would accomodate a slightly larger OD pole. Hoping someone here knows.

... I found that the problem happened whenever I tuned to a specific OTA channel...

Same here. Every time I tuned to the local ABC affiliate it would reboot.

I tried Kenn157's fix and unplugged/reconnected the box, which seems to have fixed the problem for now.

These boxes are so flakey and slow that if it weren't for the improved OTA tuner and better PQ, I would try and get my old samsung boxes repaired and trash these POS.

Same here. Every time I tuned to the local ABC affiliate it would reboot.

I tried Kenn157's fix and unplugged/reconnected the box, which seems to have fixed the problem for now.

These boxes are so flakey and slow that if it weren't for the improved OTA tuner and better PQ, I would try and get my old samsung boxes repaired and trash these POS.

Same thing here in OK. Every time I tune the local NBC station it reboots. Wierd but if we are all seeing it D* must have something flaky going on.

Same thing here in OK. Every time I tune the local NBC station it reboots. Wierd but if we are all seeing it D* must have something flaky going on.
Bobarino,
Did unplugging the box not fix your reboot problem? It did for me, so far.

I know from this forum that the AT9 needs a 2"OD pole/post for mounting. My pole is approx. two and one quarter inches OD. I looked at the installation manual, but couldn't tell if the clamp to the mast was of the compression type and therefore would accomodate a slightly larger OD pole. Hoping someone here knows.

I don't know the original size, but I just replaced a Dish 500 with a Directv 5LNB today and the old pole was too small. My installer had sheets of lead with him that he wrapped around the pole until it was large enough to mount the new dish.

My pole is in the ground behind the house. The installer that came out today is the same one that put the pole in for Dish a couple years ago.

Just got Directv today. Cancelled service with Dish because they would not give me as an existing customer (8 years) a free upgrade to HD.

I got a pleasant surprise when activated. I though I was going to pay $41.99 per month plus $10.99 for HD channels, with the first 3 months of HD channels for free.

Instead, they gave me the same package for $21.99 per month, including SHOHD and HBOHD free for 3 months, along with HD channels free for 3 months.

At the end of 3 months, I pay $41.99 plus $10.99 (for HD channels) and I can either keep the HBOHD and SHOHD and start paying then, or simply cancel them.

Regarding my set-up: I have a built-in cabinet with 27" Toshiba TV, VCR, and old Dish receiver. I am keeping the VCR and old TV in the cabinet and replaced the Dish receiver with the H20. I hooked the old TV and VCR up with composite and will use them for watching and recording SD programming. The Toshiba has a comb filter that makes the PQ fantastic.

(arxaw) - the Toshiba automatically shows the SD picture in 480i full screen even though I set the H20 to 16:9 for my new Plasma.

My new 42" Panasonic plasma is outside the cabinet and the only connection to it is an HDMI cable from the cabinet through the wall to the plasma at outlet level. Nice clean look because everything else is hidden away behind cabinet doors.

I will use the plasma for HD only.

Regarding the H20: no problems so far. Setting up my favorites was easy as I only have about 20. The guide is great for 20 listings.

I set up Native for 480P and 1080i stretch only so I don't have to go thru all the format options. HD comes in 1080i and SD to the Toshiba in 480P which is really showing as 480i.

I haven't received a software update yet. The H20 is running on 000A software.

The PQ is fantatic. This is my first HD. It's all I could want. I was a little leary because of some not so positive comments about the H20, but my only comparison was a Dish 3000 which is an old, simple model.

I will post more info later, after the software is updated.

One more thing about cost:

I saved 5 ways going to Directv.

1. Free HD receiver, 5LNB dish, fully installed

2. Basic channel line-up for $41.99 for which Dish charged $42.99

3. OLN (Bull Riding) included in basic line-up whereas Dish wanted $1.99 extra per month

4. Fox News Channel included in lowest tier where Dish had it in next higher tier

5. HD channels for $10.99 (soon to be $9.99) where Dish charged $20.99 (which included VOOM - more channels not to watch)

I don't know the original size, but I just replaced a Dish 500 with a Directv 5LNB today and the old pole was too small. My installer had sheets of lead with him that he wrapped around the pole until it was large enough to mount the new dish.

My pole is in the ground behind the house. The installer that came out today is the same one that put the pole in for Dish a couple years ago.

Thanks. I just wanted to know if the the mount was a compression type. If so it might be able to expand enough to accomodate the larger pole. I know that under 2 inches will be too small.

... I will post more info later, after the software is updated.

If you want to force the update, hit the red reset switch inside the door by the access card. When the H20 says "starting up", key in 02468 on your remote.

Reboot problems here in MN as well. I have had my H20 for a couple of months, and never had a reboot problem.

Version F06 s/w update pushed last Tuesday. Today, whenever I attempted to tune to my local NBC OTA channel, the system ended up on a continuous reboot loop.

I forced another s/w update, and the update seems to have corrected the problem (no more reboots).

...I set up Native for 480P and 1080i stretch only so I don't have to go thru all the format options. ..

You can also toggle NATIVE off & on. Just HOLD DOWN the Format button for a few seconds. To go back to Native, hold it down again until it changes.

Taken from the Syntax website:

Q: I want to use my universal remote control with the Olevia LCD TV, what is the code for the universal remote control?

A: Universal remote control manufacturers specify different code for the various television brands out there. Please check with the manufacturer's list for codes listed under RCA, YAMAHA, LG, or Philips televisions. Any code listed under the RCA, YAMAHA, LG, or Philips will work.

I actually had already tried this suggestion before posting here ...
None of those MFGs codes lsited in the HD20 do the trick ...
And I've tried the "code search" until my thumb(s) went numb ... :rolleyes:

I noticed a similar post with a Syntax 26" earlier in this thread that seemed not to have been resolved (yet) also. :(

I actually had already tried this suggestion before posting here ...
None of those MFGs codes lsited in the HD20 do the trick ...
And I've tried the "code search" until my thumb(s) went numb ... :rolleyes:

I noticed a similar post with a Syntax 26" earlier in this thread that seemed not to have been resolved (yet) also. :(

I have the Syntax 27HV and I used the Phillips codes to program the H20 remote when I got the receiver last week. I had power and volume which was all I really needed since it's used mainly as a pc monitor. However,after your post,I decided to retry it to let you know the exact code I used since I didn't write it down,and I couldn't get it to work either! So I did a code search and was able to get the power button working but nothing else,not sure what's going on now. Could it be possible the recent download may have changed something?

Some of those having a reboot problem may be tuned to an OTA channel putting out bad PSIP info. Somebody wrote that a channel change at the right point in the process will work. Disconnecting the antenna lead should prevent the problem. Changing to a Sat station before re-attaching the antenna lead will allow other OTA channels to be tuned. Tuning the bad channel before the PSIP signal is fixed will cause the problem to recur.

Bobarino,
Did unplugging the box not fix your reboot problem? It did for me, so far.

I didn't try unplugging because I decided to watch a dvd instead. When I tuned the same channel about 4 hours later it was working, no reboot.


Some of those having a reboot problem may be tuned to an OTA channel putting out bad PSIP info. Somebody wrote that a channel change at the right point in the process will work. Disconnecting the antenna lead should prevent the problem. Changing to a Sat station before re-attaching the antenna lead will allow other OTA channels to be tuned. Tuning the bad channel before the PSIP signal is fixed will cause the problem to recur.

I thought of that. I even tried calling the station to talk to the engineer, no luck. BUT if people all over the country started having this happen today what are the chances that all those stations just started sending out bad PSIP info today at the same time. No sir, I think someone at D* was playing around with something and started sending out something that caused it. It's kind of scary isn't it?

I emailed D* tell them I could not be more unhappy with the H20's performance issues. The Audiio drops video drops... They emailed back saying "Dear Mr. Bourque,

Thanks for writing. I'm sorry to hear about the HD problem you're having. Since it's difficult to troubleshoot technical issues by email, please call our technical support center and discuss the problem with one of our technical representatives. To reach them, just call 1-800-531-5000 and select the option for technical assistance.

He/she will tell me everthing I've been reading here with yuo guys call T/S. good grief! I'll call so it will be another complaint from a long time customer.

Please excuse me if you've already posted this before, but have they replaced the dish yet?

The 7th tech visit happened yesterday and he spent 2 1/2 hours here, doing what the other techs did, check wiring from the block to the receiver, re-downloaded the software, called his office, called D*, my transponder numbers are good and he claims the alignment is at 100% BUT not once did he take the ladder off his truck and physically look at the dish. The problem was happening each time he tried something and even said that he doesn't know what to tell me.

I asked if the transponders can throw good numbers and still get pixelation on channels 72 and 79, he said no. Both these channels are on the same satellite and same transponder though (it's throwing an 81)

The big boss in the Philly market from Ironwood Communications is supposed to call me tomorrow. Same person that was supposed to call me from the last visit but never did. I just can't figure what he's going to say what the problem is, it's not an engineering problem because no one else here is having the same problem.

Any suggestions?

Quick question for all or anyone with some insight. I have an H20 and this morning it just started rebooting as I was watching a show. It will not stop rebooting...it displays Aquiring information from sat, it is like I just plugged it in for the first time. Called D* CSR and she said I am not the only one this is happening to. After reboot it starts the process all over again. Anyone with any information on this?

look back a page or two sneekpeek! :)

Thanks, I was justed a little p.o.'d about this reboot thing. I need a little patience!!

Seem to have found the problem of the reboot mystery in the Harrisburg area. When I tune to the local UPN station via OTA it reboots the system. Still don't why this happens, guess I'll just remove that channel from my favorites list.

Some of those having a reboot problem may be tuned to an OTA channel putting out bad PSIP info...
Greywolf,
I don't think PSIP is the problem. The problem began in several markets at the same time, which leads me to believe it was something D* did to cause the reboot loop.

And this box does not use PSIP at all for channel banner or guide info. It gets all that strictly from D*. If a channel isn't in the D* database for the 1 or 2 zip codes you entered during setup, the box won't even tune to that channel or find it in a channel scan.

When posting about the constant reboot problem, please post whether you have first tried unplugging your H20 for a few seconds, then reconnect to power.

That has solved the problem for several people.

The H20 is partially PSIP aware. There have been threads on specific channels in specific cities that cause this exact problem. A number of posts mentoned it starting when tuning to an OTA station. It didn't even occur to me that somebody might not have tried unplugging the box. My take was that it didn't work when the box was plugged in again.

Some of those having a reboot problem may be tuned to an OTA channel putting out bad PSIP info. Somebody wrote that a channel change at the right point in the process will work. Disconnecting the antenna lead should prevent the problem. Changing to a Sat station before re-attaching the antenna lead will allow other OTA channels to be tuned. Tuning the bad channel before the PSIP signal is fixed will cause the problem to recur.


I think Greywolf maybe on to something here.

My H20 reboot problem happened to be with the local Minneapolis NBC station (11-1). I have a TS-360 in another room. I coincidently lost 11-1 on my Samsung TS-360 about the same day my H20 started the reboot problem.

I had to rescan the local channels on my TS-360 to bring 11-1 back.

I am beginning to think my local (11-1) changed something in the PSIP. Whatever it was, it put the H20 11-1 channel slot in some funky state - making it reboot because it has some type of corrupt 11-1 channel information.

It appears it takes a FULL local channel rescan/setup (via re-powering) to bring the local channel information back into the H20.

I think Greywolf maybe on to something here.

My H20 reboot problem happened to be with the local Minneapolis NBC station (11-1). I have a TS-360 in another room. I coincidently lost 11-1 on my Samsung TS-360 about the same day my H20 started the reboot problem.

I had to rescan the local channels on my TS-360 to bring 11-1 back.

I am beginning to think my local (11-1) changed something in the PSIP. Whatever it was, it put the H20 11-1 channel slot in some funky state - making it reboot because it has some type of corrupt 11-1 channel information.

It appears it takes a FULL local channel rescan/setup (via re-powering) to bring the local channel information back into the H20.


btw - I did NOT have to repower to correct the problem.

I simply forced another software update.

btw - I did NOT have to repower to correct the problem. I simply forced another software update.
That's good to know. The forced SW re-download probably accomplished the same fix as unplug/replug, only not as fast.

If the problem did somehow involve PSIP, I don't think it was PSIP at fault. It had to be something D* did to *their* guide info that conflicted with PSIP. A PSIP change at a local station wouldn't cause the problem to occur in different cities at the same time.

My H20's were both tuned to the OTA local NBC affliate. Hmmm

My H20's were both tuned to the OTA local NBC affliate. Hmmm
Hmmm, mine would reboot when tuning to the OTA local ABC affiliate.

Hasn't happened since the unplug/reconnect fix.

Hasnt happend to me since then as well.

Why did they make the H20 only capable of receiving OTA stations listed in DirecTV's "local networks"? There should be an option to add stations received in border areas (such as Buffalo, NY or Burlington, VT) that can be received from Toronto or Montreal.

As I understand correctly, DirecTV gets its listings from Zap2it, which does display listings for nearby Canadian stations when using a zip code close to the border.

It's all about controlling the box and the subscriber. Blame Rupert Murdoch.

They also disabled the OTA tuner if you don't sub to D*, making the box worthless without a subscription. It's part of the upcoming switch to leasing STBs instead of selling them.

From what they're saying at DBSForums & Satelliteguys.us, there are a lot of plans for this box, including a completely revamped guide.

Later in the year, the 5LNB dish will be redone too. Smaller and a bit less ugly.
http://i1.tinypic.com/okyb07.jpg

More info on D* plans HERE (http://media.corporate-ir.net/media_files/irol/12/127160/pdf/DTVPdfVersion.pdf)

More info on D* plans

Thanks for the link - I like the part where they say average installation time is 5-6 days - try 6-8 WEEKS or more for HD in the Chicago area!

Is anybody else having problems with there caller id not working on there H20. When the phone rings it comes up on the screen please contact your phone company but when i go in and look on the quick menu all of the recent calls are there with name and phone numbers.

Thanks in advance,
Chris

Is anybody else having problems with there caller id not working on there H20.Some people are, some aren't. I don't have my receivers plugged into a phone line, so I don't know if they work or not.

Assuming you're not trying to use a wireless phone jack, try unplugging/reconnecting the box. If that doesn't work, call DirecTV tech support at: 800 263-0038

I would like to get people's opinions on whether or not to take the H20 plunge. The rebate is about to end at the end of the month so I need to make a decision in the next few days. I am now using a Sammy TS160 on my big screen and a cheap D* box in the bedroom. I was planning on moving the 160 upstairs if I got the H20, but my wife would REALLY like a dvr and of course I want to wait on the HD version. So, should i call D* and set up an appointment to have them do the installation with the 5 lnb before the end of the month, or should I be patient and wait on the 4 mpeg HD DVR and the updated second generation dish coming out later in the year? I would really appreciate opinions on this matter and yes I did read thru all of the pages of this thread. Thanks!

buc18,
[posting your location in your profile would help]
Are your HD locals available yet on D* in MPEG4?

buc18,
[posting your location in your profile would help]
Are your HD locals available yet on D* in MPEG4?

Sorry. I am in the Roanoke Va area so no the locals are not available yet.

Since moving last July, I decided not to install the OTA antenna for my local hd channels because I was told that the local HD channels would be available through the dish by the end of the year. I now have to have a new dish, the 5 LNB, to receive the local channels in HD. Is my HD rcvr, LG LS-522, compatible with this new dish? Should I upgrade to the new dish or wait? Thanks for any help?

HD LIL are not available here, either. But, the H20 box has superior PQ to my Sammy 360 - and I believe I recall others in this thread saying that it is superior in PQ to the Sammy 160 too. And definitely superior in OTA reception.

After the rebate the H20 is FREE. But, it isn't clear to me whether the box has to be purchased and installed by March 1. (I installed my own.) Better check with D*. Two days left.

Dana

Only the H20 is compatible with the 5 LNB dish for MPEG4 reception.

All receivers will work with the 5LNB dish, but only the H20 will receive and decode MPEG4 channels (currently limited to HD Locals).

Sorry. I am in the Roanoke Va area so no the locals are not available yet.If you can change out a receiver yourself (easy), I would buy an H20 locally, bring it home and install it (deactivate your cheapie SD box). It costs nothing, after rebate and the picture quality and OTA tuner are both better than your samsung box. If you don't think the better PQ is worth the menu clunkiness, use the H20 in the bedroom and keep the Samsung on your main TV.

You must purchase it before 2/28 to get the rebate. Download the form HERE (http://www.directv.com/imagine/pdf/dvr_rebate_form.pdf). Starting March 1, all new receivers will be rented from D*. You won't own them.

Forget the 5LNB dish until either your HD locals become available, OR the MPEG4 HD DVR becomes available. By then, the smaller 5LNB dish might be available.

Is anybody else having problems with there caller id not working on there H20. When the phone rings it comes up on the screen please contact your phone company but when i go in and look on the quick menu all of the recent calls are there with name and phone numbers.

Thanks in advance,
Chris

Yes. Sigh. :(

The odd thing about this problem on my box is that one out of every 20 calls or so it will actually decode the CID. It is probably a timing issue between my box and the Verizon FIOS telephone switch that serves my area.

I have done everything I can think of to do over the 6 weeks I have had the H20, but to no avail. After 3 calls to D* second tier support, countless unpluggings, hard resets, soft resets, and forced reloadings of firmware, all with no results and no further ideas the only recourse left is to request a replacement box.

There have been posts from individuals "in the know" who swear the feature is not supposed to work yet, and will be fixed in a future upgrade. But I am skeptical. No one from D* has expressed this at all. They are all 'surprised' and have never heard of such a problem before. LOL

Please let me know if you find anything out by calling tech support. Its not that big of a deal, its just annoying when it works fine on the other 4 receivers I own.

I live in the san francisco northbay and finally got my H20 installed last week. Over the last few months i have read that the H20 would have audio sync issues, especially on local channel 2. It seems like this got cleared up, but i have noticed that some shows still experience this, and it doesn't seem isolated to FOX. Channel 7 seemed to have some issues last night. So my question is this: Is it the h20 that causes this, or is it the broadcast or both? Im just wondering if i have bad h.w. and if I should get it replaced? Any input is appreciated. thanks

If you can change out a receiver yourself (easy), I would buy an H20 locally, bring it home and install it (deactivate your cheapie SD box). It costs nothing, after rebate and the picture quality and OTA tuner are both better than your samsung box. If you don't think the better PQ is worth the menu clunkiness, use the H20 in the bedroom and keep the Samsung on your main TV.

You must purchase it before 2/28 to get the rebate. Download the form HERE (http://www.directv.com/imagine/pdf/dvr_rebate_form.pdf). Starting March 1, all new receivers will be rented from D*. You won't own them.

Forget the 5LNB dish until either your HD locals become available, OR the MPEG4 HD DVR becomes available. By then, the smaller 5LNB dish might be available.


So if I wait for the mpeg4 HD DVR to become available I wonder if the $99 install that they are offering now with the 5 LNB dish will still be offered.

Here's Solid Signal's take on activation of a purchased H20 from a PM just received.

"Customers who purchase DIRECTV receivers before 03-01-2006
have up until the end of March 2006 (03-30-2006) to activate the
unit under the current purchased receiver option.

"The important information here is that if you would like to own
a DIRECTV receiver without return lease agreement, now is the time
to purchase that receiver."

Just installed an H20 with my 16X9 480P plasma widescreen. I fumbled through the setup to include OTA HD local channels (no D local or HD subscription) and notice that local stations are using 4X3 leaving black pillars. During the setup I had selected grey pillars, how come their showing black? The OTA HD programming is terrific but I am concerned about screen burning with the black pillars. I was hoping the grey might help?

So if I wait for the mpeg4 HD DVR to become available I wonder if the $99 install that they are offering now with the 5 LNB dish will still be offered.
They usually run specials on dish upgrades whenever locals are added to a market. I probably will again, when locals are added in your town or when the MPEG4 DVR becomes available.

Just installed an H20 with my 16X9 480P plasma widescreen. I fumbled through the setup to include OTA HD local channels (no D local or HD subscription) and notice that local stations are using 4X3 leaving black pillars. During the setup I had selected grey pillars, how come their showing black?...
The gray bars you selected are for non HD channels broadcasting in true 4:3, when you have "pillar box" selected using the Format button on the remote.

All HD channels broadcast in 16:9 format. If a station happens to be showing a 4:3 material, the station inserts their own pillar bars to fill out the 16:9 frame, and most stations use black bars. A few will use gray or other color bars, sometimes w/ a network logo in the bars.

If you don't want the bars, you'll have to stretch or zoom&crop the original picture to fill up your screen. Read about screen burn in your TV's manual to see if it could be a problem and how to deal with it.

Also, since your display isn't HD, you might try turning off 720p and 1080i in the H20 resolutions, if they make no visible difference in picture quality. There's no sense in the H20 upconverting everything to 720 or 1080, only to have the display downconvert it back to 480p. It will be less resolutions to cycle through when you use the format button.

One irritating exception to this, because there is NOTHING you can do is TNT-HD, channel 75. It stretches the left and right sides of 4:3 content until you get a pretend 16:9 format. This is a TNT thing, not DirecTV. The center part is as it should be but the left and right sides are stretched. I utterly hate this. I'd rather have the gray, color, or decorative bars.

Oops, I forgot about stoopid TNThd stretchovision being the exception.

So if I wait for the mpeg4 HD DVR to become available I wonder if the $99 install that they are offering now with the 5 LNB dish will still be offered.

it would be best if you wait for the Mpeg 4 DVR to get the 5 LNB... Because you
won't pay the $99 install - its going to be "free". All Rental receivers will include
installation in the cost. of course none of this info is 100% accurate no one will
know for certain until March 1.

but at this point i would say if you don't care if you own the HD DVR ( which i have
one its Sweet ) then don't bother buying it, rent it, get it installed worry free.

Also Equipment upgrades and Swap out offers will be made available to those
wanting to upgrade to mpeg4, its usaully $15 to swap, but the offer will most
likely change to a "free" offer to trade owned for rental. its still all speculation at
this point. however know that if an MPEG 4 Swap is REQUIRED it will be provided
at minimal cost ( confirmed as Free in some areas ).

Again no one knows until march 1st, its a very tricky conversion but in the long
run it will be better for the average DTV customer.

-Brine

One irritating exception to this, because there is NOTHING you can do is TNT-HD, channel 75. It stretches the left and right sides of 4:3 content until you get a pretend 16:9 format. This is a TNT thing, not DirecTV. The center part is as it should be but the left and right sides are stretched. I utterly hate this. I'd rather have the gray, color, or decorative bars.

I hate this as well. However, remember when ESPN did the "switchover" to HD? We all complained about the same thing. it is annoying, but in due time this also will be resolved and we'll (I'll) complain about something else. :D

I dunno...............
Look back at some of the AVS HDTV messages from early 2005 and the posters were complaining back then.

How TNT can call what they did to "Armageddon" HD is beyond me!
On another H20 note I have a problem with my H20. This problem first started about a month ago while watching my local OTA HD channels, but, now does it on any "D" channel at anytime.
It happens like this; I'm watching a program on “D” when suddenly the screen goes black. I can't change channels at this point, nor can I turn the H20 off. After about a minute of blackness the H20's definition indicator LEDs will begin scanning from 1080i to 480P to 480i to 720P in various colors from amber, green & red for 30-40 seconds, then a pause, then scan again for another 30-40 seconds. Then it stops scanning & the "Searching For Satellite Signal” & “Acquiring Data From Satellite"; screen appears & goes through its percentages until 100% is obtained. Once finished (about 5 minutes total) it may loop & do this over & over again.
I have complained to “D” & they acknowledge there’s a problem & said a software update was coming to fix this. Well, the 02-21-06 update didn’t.
Anyone else have this problem with the H20?

Last night while watching Grays Anatomy and the local news on LA Channel 7 (ABC), the lips lagged the voices by about 2 seconds. This morning, the news seemed OK. Does anyone know what's going on?

Last night while watching Grays Anatomy and the local news on LA Channel 7 (ABC), the lips lagged the voices by about 2 seconds. This morning, the news seemed OK. Does anyone know what's going on?

What software version do you have? Ever since Directv sent out the 06 upgrade, I have had fewer problems. You may have the 03F version. it has been better, but not as stable as the DTC-100 was for the 2.7 years I used it as my main HD reciever. I only lost picture when a severe thunderstorm went by. Now with the H20 (even though it's better) It's not as stable on a day by day basis as it was 2.5 years ago.I thought as technology advanced, there would be fewer problems, not more. I love Directv,However, they better get these problems fixed soon or people will start walking.

I think that all manufacturers having to comply to Directv and using Directv's proprietary software/design may hurt them more than help them. I can see some positives in this and some negatives as well.

Actually to contridict what I just wrote, the cable companies are having issues with alot of the Motorola DVR boxes....so I guess Directv is not the only company having problems with their boxes.

When are they going to fix the problem of the top of the 5's and 7's and titles being cut off on the H20?

...[reboot problem] Once finished (about 5 minutes total) it may loop & do this over & over again.... Anyone else have this problem with the H20?
Yes. If you'd scroll back a page or two, you'd see lots of people have had the reboot problem. Many have been able to solve it by simply unplugging the box and plugging it back in after 15 seconds or so.

If that doesn't help, try hitting the red reset button by the access card.
When the screen says "starting up" key in 02468 on the remote to download (or re-download) the latest firmware.

Try unplugging the box first. It's faster...

The gray bars you selected are for non HD channels broadcasting in true 4:3, when you have "pillar box" selected using the Format button on the remote.

All HD channels broadcast in 16:9 format. If a station happens to be showing a 4:3 material, the station inserts their own pillar bars to fill out the 16:9 frame, and most stations use black bars. A few will use gray or other color bars, sometimes w/ a network logo in the bars.

If you don't want the bars, you'll have to stretch or zoom&crop the original picture to fill up your screen. Read about screen burn in your TV's manual to see if it could be a problem and how to deal with it.

Also, since your display isn't HD, you might try turning off 720p and 1080i in the H20 resolutions, if they make no visible difference in picture quality. There's no sense in the H20 upconverting everything to 720 or 1080, only to have the display downconvert it back to 480p. It will be less resolutions to cycle through when you use the format button.

Thank you for the reply. When I did the setup I selected 480P only for 16X9. I also tried the zoom but it's maxed. My main concern and reason for OP is screen burn. Manufacturer suggests "Do not show the same stationary image for more than 15% of your total viewing time in any one week. Your warranty does NOT cover screen burn-in."

When I did the setup I selected 480P only for 16X9. I also tried the zoom but it's maxed...If you can't get zoom to work, go back to Resolutions tab (in the setup menu) and add 480i.

Adding 480i *may* give you more zoom options, either with the TV's zoom or H20 format button. You can cycle back to 480p on widescreen programs. You may or may not notice a difference in picture sharpness.

OK. I'm a little confused - or just plain dumb. Is the H20 (non DVR) an mpeg4 unit? I like the DVR on my SD unit, but I'm not married to it.

The H20 is capable of receiving both MPEG2 & MPEG4 DirecTV channels. All MPEG4 channels require the new large AT9 5LNB dish. Currently, the only MPEG4 channels D* carries are local HD broadcast channels in select markets.

The MPEG4 HD DVR will be available on a lease basis, later this year.

thanks for the info. so it makes sense, if i don't need/want dvr, to just go ahead and buy the H20 now with lnb5 dish and not pay rental fee forever.

thanks for the info. so it makes sense, if i don't need/want dvr, to just go ahead and buy the H20 now with lnb5 dish and not pay rental fee forever.
Yes except that the lease fee is the same as the mirror fee. First unit is $0.00 and each additional is $4.99. So whether you own or lease the monthly cost is the same.

thanks, stang. why would D* let us have the first unit without the monthly?

thanks, stang. why would D* let us have the first unit without the monthly?
The lease plan is just for tax purposes for D*. And it is good PR if it doesn't cost any more monthly to do it, current ly first box has no mirror fee and all additionals are $4.99. Best not to piss people off that way they get more subs to lease and get more depreciation to claim on their taxes.

p.s. If you have non-leased equipment then you will get the lease fee for every leased box and one of the non-leased boxes will be the free one.

That's interesting. D* CSR just told me that upfront lease cost on the HD-DVR is $499. That makes it an easy decision for me, DVR-wise. I'm just trying to figure out if there's an advantage to owning vs. leasing on the H20. Any thoughts?

Well it has been 6 weeks since I sent in my reabte form and nothing yet. I called retention and was able to obtain an instant $200 credit on my account. Guy put up a little fight, but I got what I wanted. This rebate process was ridiculous.

That's interesting. D* CSR just told me that upfront lease cost on the HD-DVR is $499. That makes it an easy decision for me, DVR-wise. I'm just trying to figure out if there's an advantage to owning vs. leasing on the H20. Any thoughts?
The info D* provided to their dealers listed the HD DVR as 399 upfront with a 100 dollar rebate for new customers.

p.s. nevertrust a D* CSR to know anything about what things will be like tomorrow for D*. They barely even know what it is today.

i'm beginning to realize that about CSR's in general. did the info say anything about existing customers?

Anyone able to come up with a remote code that will work with the Syntax Olevia LT37HVS 37" yet ?
My older receivers at least had Syntax listed ... but nothing on the HD20 ???
Rather odd as these have actually become more available and popular. :confused:
Howdy,

Syntax Olevia remote code....

The DirecTv H20 remote code is "Goldstar" the (3 listed) use the last one. Works fine for all buttons, mute, volume, channels etc...

When are they going to fix the problem of the top of the 5's and 7's and titles being cut off on the H20?
Not doing it on mine, either in menu or on the title bar...

Howdy,

Syntax Olevia remote code....

The DirecTv H20 remote code is "Goldstar" the (3 listed) use the last one. Works fine for all buttons, mute, volume, channels etc...

Cool,
thanks Mike that did the trick ... actually for me it was the first Goldstar code (10030) that worked on my Syntax Olevia LT37HVS.

If you want to own one free after rebate, today (2/28) is the last day to purchase one. Leasing program begins 3/1/06.

Is this (along with the 5 LNB dish) the ONLY way that I can get my HD locals (live in DC area) without getting an OTA antenna? I just called DirecTV with the intention of purchasing the H20 with the 5 LNB dish, and the CSR told me that I can get an "HD tuner with the 5 LNB dish" for $199 with a $200 rebate, but that the receiver WOULDN'T be the H20, but rather the H10, or an RCA or Samsung model!! He then told me that since I have the ability to get locals in my area, that I'd be able to get them with this package. I do not currently have an OTA antenna, and dont want to spend the $80+ to get one if I dont have to. Does the CSR know what he's talking about? I just want to watch Lost, ER, Scrubs, the ACC and the NCAA tourneys in HD, is that so hard to do?

That's really weird. I just called and ordered the receiver and lnb5 and asked three times if it was an H20. I was told "yes" each time, and that I needed the H20 to get the HD locals.

You MUST have the H20 and the 5lnb dish to get locals in HD through the dish with D*. Don't ever believe a CSR.

Of course, the only exceptions are New York and Los Angeles.

Gary

should i get the h20

yea, and that seems a little high. I paid just shy of 16 dollars total for the dish and H20 with installation, though had to sign up for another 2 years...but I don't have cable option anyway.

keep calling and getting a different csr, mine was actually very knowledgeable, and basically said we'll just give you everything for free, when would you like to schedule the installation.


though, I need to call them back, caller id still doesn't work on this one...older samsung HD works just fine.

Of course, the only exceptions are New York and Los Angeles.

Gary
D* currently (for some time now) has offered local HD programming to the Washington D.C. area.

HD locals might or might not be available from D* in "your" area.

The First 12 markets that D* offered local HD channels in were:

New York (Mpeg2).....................Los Angeles (Mpeg2)
Chicago....................................Philadelphia
Boston.....................................San Francisco
Dallas.......................................Washington D.C.
Atlanta.....................................Detroit
Houston....................................Tampa


The next 24 markets (available beginning in April?):

Baltimore....................Birmingham, AL....................Charlotte, N.C.
Cleveland...................Columbus, OH......................Denver
Fresno, CA.................Hartford, CN........................Indianapolis
Kansas City, MO..........Miami................................ Milwaukee
Minneapolis, MN...........Nashville, TN.......................Orlando, FL
Phoenix......................Pittsburgh..................... .....Raleigh, N.C
Sacramento, CA..........Salt Lake City......................San Diego
Seattle......................St Louis, Mo........................West Palm Beach, FL

should i get the h20
Tic-Tock-Tick-Tock
I would....
Better Hurrry today is the last day to buy the H20 and get the $200 dollar rebate.
Tomorrow H20's will be leased and not sold.

RSlack

D* currently (for some time now) has offered local HD programming to the Washington D.C. area.

HD locals might or might not be available from D* in "your" area.

The First 12 markets that D* offered local HD channels in were:

New York (Mpeg2).....................Los Angeles (Mpeg2)
Chicago....................................Philadelphia
Boston.....................................San Francisco
Dallas.......................................Washington D.C.
Atlanta.....................................Detroit
Houston....................................Tampa


The next 24 markets (available beginning in April?):

Baltimore....................Birmingham, AL....................Charlotte, N.C.
Cleveland...................Columbus, OH......................Denver
Fresno, CA.................Hartford, CN........................Indianapolis
Kansas City, MO..........Miami................................ Milwaukee
Minneapolis, MN...........Nashville, TN.......................Orlando, FL
Phoenix......................Pittsburgh..................... .....Raleigh, N.C
Sacramento, CA..........Salt Lake City......................San Diego
Seattle......................St Louis, Mo........................West Palm Beach, FL

I think he's referring to the fact that local HDs in MPEG2 are available in the NY and LA markets so you don't need the H20 to receive them there.

Would anyone know what codes would make my H20 remote operate a Yamaha HTR 5650 receiver (I think that's the model - going from memory)?

None of the Yamaha codes in the guide work for my receiver. Really just want to control the volume with the H20 remote. Thanks

Would anyone know what codes would make my H20 remote operate a Yamaha HTR 5650 receiver (I think that's the model - going from memory)?

None of the Yamaha codes in the guide work for my receiver. Really just want to control the volume with the H20 remote. Thanks


I have a different Yamaha receiver, but this worked for me:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=634802&highlight=rcraigiii

Cool,
thanks Mike that did the trick ... actually for me it was the first Goldstar code (10030) that worked on my Syntax Olevia LT37HVS.
Howdy,

Yes, the first one works, but not all the function are available. The 2nd one works too, but not all functions. The 3rd one works the best with you pushing the TV power off, both the TV and H20 power off together. Push the power on, and both power on. Mute works, channels, volume, etc...

I have a different Yamaha receiver, but this worked for me:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=634802&highlight=rcraigiii

Thanks for the link - didn't see this thread. Will attempt to set this up tonight when I get home.

D* currently (for some time now) has offered local HD programming to the Washington D.C. area.

HD locals might or might not be available from D* in "your" area.

The First 12 markets that D* offered local HD channels in were:

New York (Mpeg2).....................Los Angeles (Mpeg2)
Chicago....................................Philadelphia
Boston.....................................San Francisco
Dallas.......................................Washington D.C.
Atlanta.....................................Detroit
Houston....................................Tampa


The next 24 markets (available beginning in April?):

Baltimore....................Birmingham, AL....................Charlotte, N.C.
Cleveland...................Columbus, OH......................Denver
Fresno, CA.................Hartford, CN........................Indianapolis
Kansas City, MO..........Miami................................ Milwaukee
Minneapolis, MN...........Nashville, TN.......................Orlando, FL
Phoenix......................Pittsburgh..................... .....Raleigh, N.C
Sacramento, CA..........Salt Lake City......................San Diego
Seattle......................St Louis, Mo........................West Palm Beach, FL


Does it cost extra to get LOCAL HD?

I have a question about getting local HD signal for New York. I want to use the h10-250 DVR for my hd signal, but from reading the posts I am not sure if I would get my local channels in HD or do I need to get the h20 reciever.

Currently, your h10-250 (mpeg2) will continue to provide HD reception of CBS, NBC, ABC and Fox.

Eventually, Direct will announce a date and will dispense with mpeg2 and provide those network stations plus additional New York area HD stations only to mgeg4 receivers and DVRs.

So, if you don't need the additional local stations in HD via Direct and can wait for the eventuality of the New York market being solely mpeg4 for HD reception, you can stay with the h10-250.

I'm staying with my wonderful mpeg2 Sony receiver until I have to upgrade.

Gary

You can get NY & LA ABC, CBS, FOX & NBC in HD via D* with the H10-250. You may get more HD chs OTA, if you also connect an antenna.

Does it cost extra to get LOCAL HD?
NO.

If HD locals are available in your city, they are included with your standard def locals.

Okay so now i have another question, I contacted Directv today and I can get the h20 for just about free or I can get the h10-250 for 399.00. Now I would rather not spend the 399.00, so can i simply get the h20 and then purchase a separate dvr to use to record my programs in HD, or do I need the h10-250.

Okay so now i have another question, I contacted Directv today and I can get the h20 for just about free or I can get the h10-250 for 399.00. Now I would rather not spend the 399.00, so can i simply get the h20 and then purchase a separate dvr to use to record my programs in HD, or do I need the h10-250.
Hey VIG,

It depends... :D

Do you live in an area where Mpeg4 local channels are available?

There currently is no DVR available for Mpeg4. D* has a Mpeg4 HD-DVR coming in the future... Soon even, maybe? :)

If you buy a H-10 and live in an area (and can't get the NY & LA local feeds) and you need to get your local HD via D* then you won't be able to get the D* local HD channels with the H-10. You need the H-20 in order to get Mpeg4.

I just got the H-20 (free is good) and will have to wait until a Mpeg4 DVR unit is available. That will mean that I will end up with two D* HD units. My H-20 and a HD-DVR. Maybe I will just sell one of my old TiVos?

'Til then, I will have to make do with my old DirecTiVo and only be able to time shift and record SD signals. The real hardship will come in when I have to decide between two different HD tv shows airing at the same time on different channels. Which will I watch "live" in HD and which will I TiVo and watch in SD later...

"It's a great life if you don't weaken."

Hope this helps.

Okay so now i have another question, I contacted Directv today and I can get the h20 for just about free or I can get the h10-250 for 399.00. Now I would rather not spend the 399.00, so can i simply get the h20 and then purchase a separate dvr to use to record my programs in HD, or do I need the h10-250.

Well if you buy a DVR as a separate unit Remember 2 important things:

-is it HD or Progressive scan (fake HD)
-It will not intergrate your program guide into the unit, making Scheduling recordings a headache.

the 1st issue you really have to pay attention to, a lot of DVR (even with DVD-RW) Say they are "HD" but really thats HD output only, it needs to have HD input. (HDMI or Component w/ a Optical audio input - for recording, not just a pass-thru)

the 2nd issue is, how much time/ patients do you have ? When you Set up a season pass with your HD DVR, it will record that show on that channel no matter what time it comes on, if its not intergrate it will record the same time, every time, so if the show airs other times you'll have to set it for those times too... which can be hard to keep up with sometimes.

other issues are:
-Dual Tuner Capacity
-hDD capacity ( for HD ??)
- DVR Service fee - tivo charges 12.99 for a standalone service, Directv is only 5.99

you don't need HD Pack to get the following Channels in HD:
-your local channels (where avail.)
-CD USA ch.101
-Showtime HD
-HBO HD
-CBS,NBC,ABC,FOX NY/LA (apply for your DNS waivers, this process is easy and Free, the channels are Free with subscription to ANY Directv service )

-Brine

Does anyone else have a problem with a line flashing across the picture?? I am noticing this on all HD programming.

Sorry if this has been covered but I didnt feel like reading 50+ pages. I just the H20 receiver installed from dtv and Im trying to set my guide to only show the channels I actually have. The problem is, the total channels is 490 and it says the channels I receive is 490 (way off). Whenever I check the box on the favorites settings to display only the channels I have it shows all 490. Is there something wrong with my receiver? I really hope I dont have to go through and manually check all of my channels.

What I did was go to the second favorites to play and learn around on. While there, I selected REMOVE ALL. Nothing is checked.

I then checked ADD CH'S I GET.

As I scrolled through the channels while still there, some were checked (mine), some were not.

I only had two channels (Fox HD) that claimed they were part of my package which they aren't. Other than that, it worked out.

Admittedly, this is quite awkward, but I think we have thrashed how dreadful the interface is more than several times.

...I really hope I dont have to go through and manually check all of my channels.Make a list of the channels you want to show up when you pull up the guide.
Edit a FAV list and manually add the channels you want to see in the guide to the list.
Then, Set Current list to the FAV list you created.

PITA

Ok, this is my second H20 reciever, i had a tech came to my house last week because I was reporting pixelation when there is fast motion, he was only at my house for 10 mins and concluded that my reciever was the problem, D* sent me a new H20, and this one is having same problem. Is this a D* issue or reciever issue? Anyone getting this pixelation stuff? It looks so bad, my dish is a AT9 and they said i have perfect signals.

It hasn't been 30 days yet, can i give back my H20 without penelty?

The pixelation you are witnessing is the over-compression of DirecTV (and virtually all digital service providers) in order to make room to add useless channels to justify raising your monthly fee for programming that is becoming more and more unwatchable.

The stream is sent with this pixelation and your hardware has absolutely nothing to do with it.

The pixelation you are witnessing is the over-compression of DirecTV (and virtually all digital service providers) in order to make room to add useless channels to justify raising your monthly fee for programming that is becoming more and more unwatchable.

The stream is sent with this pixelation and your hardware has absolutely nothing to do with it.


How come when I call D*, they keep telling me they are not having this problem, and not much people is reporting this problem at all?

How come when I call D*, they keep telling me they are not having this problem, and not much people is reporting this problem at all?

Do you get this same "pixelization" on your OTA channels as you do on the D* channels? When do you see pixelization, is it during fast movement or all the time?

Do you get this same "pixelization" on your OTA channels as you do on the D* channels? When do you see pixelization, is it during fast movement or all the time?

I get pixelation at fast movements. And i also get pixelation on HD locals too. The american Idol in HD doesn't look good also.

mefromfl,
If your locals multicast extra sub channels, better get used to pixelization and other motion artifacts.

mefromfl,
If your locals multicast extra sub channels, better get used to pixelization and other motion artifacts.

What do you mean by multicast extra sub channels? I have a AT9 and the locals are mpeg4.

In that case, the issue of multicasting affecting your locals would depend on how D* is receiving the uplinked locals before retransmitting them in MPEG4. If they get them OTA and uplink them to D*, then multicasting problems would affect MPEG 4 locals the same way multicasting degrades viewing OTA reception w/ antenna.

What I did was go to the second favorites to play and learn around on. While there, I selected REMOVE ALL. Nothing is checked.

I then checked ADD CH'S I GET.

As I scrolled through the channels while still there, some were checked (mine), some were not.

I only had two channels (Fox HD) that claimed they were part of my package which they aren't. Other than that, it worked out.

Admittedly, this is quite awkward, but I think we have thrashed how dreadful the interface is more than several times.

Well when I choose "Channels I Get" it selects every single channel available, whether I have it or not. I guess I will have to figure out my channels and manually add them all myself. :mad:

Sorry if this has been covered but I didnt feel like reading 50+ pages. I just the H20 receiver installed from dtv and Im trying to set my guide to only show the channels I actually have. The problem is, the total channels is 490 and it says the channels I receive is 490 (way off). Whenever I check the box on the favorites settings to display only the channels I have it shows all 490. Is there something wrong with my receiver? I really hope I dont have to go through and manually check all of my channels.

You have to go through and manually check all of your channels and then click done.

I get pixelation at fast movements. And i also get pixelation on HD locals too. The american Idol in HD doesn't look good also.
the problem may actually be the TV, Try connected a high rsolution/progressive scan DVD player and see if you see the same thing...
If you have any other HD sources you can try those as well...

Some pixel problems are more visible on some tvs than others. And i would say its most likely compression.

-Brine

Well when I choose "Channels I Get" it selects every single channel available, whether I have it or not. I guess I will have to figure out my channels and manually add them all myself. :mad:
If you're not familiar with the channel numbers, printing this program guide will help you setup a list of FAVs:
http://www.directv.com/DTVAPP/glb/ProgramGuide.jsp

You have to go through and manually check all of your channels and then click done.

Yeah I know how to do it, it just sucks that I have to do it. When I had dish network, all I had to do was click a button for it to show only the channels I was subscribed to. With this H20 I have to manually add all of the channels im subscribed too, or delete the ones I dont have. Kind of a pain in the ass for a feature as simple as that. I can tell my H20 has the feature, it just doesnt work for some reason.

Thanks for the link arxaw, that will make the job a little less tedious.

the problem may actually be the TV, Try connected a high rsolution/progressive scan DVD player and see if you see the same thing...
If you have any other HD sources you can try those as well...

Some pixel problems are more visible on some tvs than others. And i would say its most likely compression.

-Brine

i have a pioneer 4360, and i do play dvds and play xbox 360 on it without any pixelation when there is fast motion, so i do believe it's D*.

...With this H20 I have to manually add all of the channels im subscribed too, or delete the ones I dont have. Kind of a pain in the ass for a feature as simple as that.
Yep, a PITA.

On the upside, this box (so far) hasn't automatically re-added any stupid shopping channels or other crap channels I have omitted from the custom list I created. Every STB I've had before this one would occasionally re-add random channels back to the FAV list that I didn't want in there...

How come when I call D*, they keep telling me they are not having this problem, and not much people is reporting this problem at all?

Because they are probably seeing their feed on a 9" monitor!

I manually scheduled several programs. A couple of those schedules are recurring. The problem is that I can't figure out how to delete one of those manual schedules that I no longer want. Does anyone know how to do this? If it is not possible, be very careful when you set a recurring schedule. You may have to live with it forever!

Well when I choose "Channels I Get" it selects every single channel available, whether I have it or not. I guess I will have to figure out my channels and manually add them all myself. :mad:
I'd be upset as well. But, for some reason, mine doesn't do that. It is selective to the channels I subscribe.

I kept playing with it and finally found a way to cancel a previously set recurring schedule. Since it is not obvious, I thought I'd share it.

To get rid of the recurring schedule that you don't want, set a new one time schedule for the same date and time. The H20 will ask you if you want to cancel the previously scheduled event. Tell it yes and the perpetual schedule will be deleted.

It seems that it would be easier to simply make a delete function in the software......

... It seems that it would be easier to simply make a delete function in the software......
Of course it would.

But the idiots that designed the UI for this box would never have thought of something so simple.

Pros:
H20 Picture Quality is outstanding, slightly better then my Sony HD-300.
H20 Does have a better OTA tuner. We are able to receive more stations
and didn't have to upgrade the outside antenna.
H20 has a nice feature to manually set programs to Autotune on Daily, M-F, Weekly timeframe, just like the old Sony A3 did.


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. Receiver must always be on. That's just stupid!
Some channels set in Favorites will disappear when Directv is adding/removing channels. You have go back into favorites and manually add back in. This is another waste of everyone's time!
Receiver needed to be rebooted when TNTHD was added to get guide info.
Guide needs to show 2 hours of info not 1.5 hrs.
PIP in guide needs to be larger.

The best guides are still the Sony HD300/LG3200A/HTL-HD! Directv should have used those guides ( GUI ) in the H20.

Cons:
...Some channels set in Favorites will disappear when Directv is adding/removing channels. You have go back into favorites and manually add back in.

Which channels have you lost from FAV list? OTA or Sat? I haven't lost any so far, and no unwanted chs that I had previously deleted have been re-added.

One thing they left out is a clock in the 1-line guide (blue button). Maybe some of these problems will be addressed when the guide gets an overhaul later in the year. See this forum (http://www.satelliteguys.us/showpost.php?p=491600&postcount=1) for more info.

Just got my H20 activated, and apparently I accidentally chose 480P as my default resolution, because the Format button scrolls through the 1080i choices, then when it gets to 480P it sticks there, and I have to press the resolution button on the console to get it back to 1080i. What should I do to resolve this? Thanks.

Well when I choose "Channels I Get" it selects every single channel available, whether I have it or not. I guess I will have to figure out my channels and manually add them all myself. :mad:

Same problem here. I had the H20 installed yesterday and "Channels I Get" is like ~497 (in other words, all of them). I had to go through manually and setup one of the custom lists to actually show all of the channels I get, then I used the 2nd custom for an actual favorites list.

Just got my H20 activated, and apparently I accidentally chose 480P as my default resolution, because the Format button scrolls through the 1080i choices, then when it gets to 480P it sticks there, and I have to press the resolution button on the console to get it back to 1080i. What should I do to resolve this? Thanks.
Go into Setup and look at TV type and tab over & up to Resolutions tab.
Check/Uncheck any resolutions you don't want. NOT: 480p can NOT be unchecked. If that doesn't help, go through the entire setup process again. That *may* help.

Anyone else's H20 rebooting when you tune to an OTA channel?

Anyone else's H20 rebooting when you tune to an OTA channel?

Its happening to me too. This wasn't happening yesterday, what gives?

Directv just installed an OTA antenna yesterday, they used a diplexer to carry the signal which I know is a no-no, but it was working fine yesterday. Is this happening to everyone and the problem is unrelated to the diplexer???

Its happening to me too. This wasn't happening yesterday, what gives?

Directv just installed an OTA antenna yesterday, they used a diplexer to carry the signal which I know is a no-no, but it was working fine yesterday. Is this happening to everyone and the problem is unrelated to the diplexer???

Installing a diplexer is bad? When my tech installed my dish, I told him I was going to buy a good OTA antenna for local HD and install it myself. I told him the only part I dreaded was getting under the house to run a new coax to my receiver and he recommended using a diplexer instead.

If you dont have the AT9 dish you will be fine with a diplexer. The new MPEG4 signals use the same frequencies on the cable as OTA so that is where the problem is.

Anyone else's H20 rebooting when you tune to an OTA channel?


I just tuned to my Fox, CBS, and WB OTA stations (that's all I can get OTA) and it didn't reboot for me.

My H20 has started the reboot problem. I have tried the unplug solution to no avail. What is the code to force a software update, I can't find it when I need it? I want to try that.

My H20 has started the reboot problem. I have tried the unplug solution to no avail. What is the code to force a software update, I can't find it when I need it? I want to try that.

Hit the red reset button in the access card compartment.
When the receiver reboots and says "starting up" enter 02468 on your remote.

Bad PSIP info on a channel can cause a reboot. Remove the antenna lead if it reboots. If the problem is one channel's PSIP, you'll then be able to change the channel and plug the antenna cable back in. If you go back to the offending channels and it reboots, notify the station. Check your local thread to see if there is a known problem with the station. The list of threads for HD reception in specific U.S. cities is at:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=453241

I just tuned to my Fox, CBS, and WB OTA stations (that's all I can get OTA) and it didn't reboot for me.
Its happening to me only with NBC OTA. Here in LA its channle 4-1. In addition in LA we get NBC Weather+ on 4-2; the problem doesn't happen there.

Everyone having the problem, please advise as to the Network and channel number.

Reboot Problem
Just spoke to D* technical support. They are aware of the problem and are working to fix it. A work around, is during the acquisition of info from satellite portion of the reboot, hit exit button on remote (wait until at least 5% complete before hitting exit), tune to a station that the problem doesn't occur on and restart receiver either from setup menu or by hitting red button. They recommend not tuning to the station where the problem exists until they resolve the problem.

Problem got fixed for me. I can do OTA again ... Except all the messing around I did screwed up my favorites. So now when I goto edit my favorites, I don't see anything past channel 25, the list just goes blank. If I try to page down past it, the box resets itself. Trying to reset to defaults for everything to see if this fixes the problem.

EDIT: Resetting to defaults fix the favorites problem I was having.

Go into Setup and look at TV type and tab over & up to Resolutions tab.
Check/Uncheck any resolutions you don't want. NOT: 480p can NOT be unchecked. If that doesn't help, go through the entire setup process again. That *may* help.Thanks. That was the problem. Only 480P was checked.

It took extra effort at D* to get my H20 activated. The problem was referred to several higher levels. Today on the website, I see my H20 listed as "rented equipment" (I purchased it from Value Electronics on Feb. 25), and all of my receivers are now showing "non-mirrored." I sent them an e-mail.

My "back" button is suddenly not working. Anyone have this problem???

Thanks

...Today on the website, I see my H20 listed as "rented equipment" ...
And for mine, I see "Access Card Rating Limit is 15". What in the world is that? I have never seen this before.

Bad PSIP info on a channel can cause a reboot.
Then, why is it only happening on my newer H20, but not the older one? It was rebooting a few days ago and quit after I unplugged/replugged it. It happened again today on that same box. I immediately went to the other H20 and tuned to the channel I was on when it rebooted, and no problemo. To rule out connection problems, I also swapped box locations, and the same box has the random reboot problem, regardless of which room it's in.

Temp fix: reach behind the left rear corner of the box and yank the power cord from the back of the box for a few seconds, then replace. Red reboot button won't solve the problem.

D* also told me it's an H20 problem.

And for mine, I see "Access Card Rating Limit is 15". What in the world is that? I have never seen this before.

You see that on the web site?

My "back" button is suddenly not working. Anyone have this problem???

Nope. What are you trying to go back to?

You see that on the web site?
Yes, in my account at the specs for the listing of my receivers and their locations.

This morning my H20 rebooted whenever I tuned to channel 4-1 (KNBC). Unplugging and replugging the power did not solve this. Reloading the software did not help either. I had to disconnect the OTA antenna then tune to another channel to resume normal operation.

"Nope. What are you trying to go back to?"

Just flipping to the previous channel I was on.

"Nope. What are you trying to go back to?"

Just flipping to the previous channel I was on.
Try prev not back to go to previous channel.

Mine has been fine. This morning I turned it on and it started to reboot and kept doing it. I did reload software and it has stopped. How soon will this bug be fixed?
thanks

"Try prev not back to go to previous channel."

Duh.. Brain fart!

Thanks Bearmur

"Back" takes you back to the last thing you were doing, e.g. going back one screen in the menu.
If the last thing you did was look at the Guide, Back will bring up the Guide.

Anybody experiencing severe pixelization (low signal) with the H20 on Sat channels? I just had the H20 installed about 2 weeks ago. It was working fine until yesterday. 101 sat average signal is mid 60's to low 70's, 119 high 40's to low 60's and 110 mid 60's. I have an HR10-250 that is averaging high 80's to high 90's on all Sats. Doesn't appear to be an alignment problem. Called D* and they suspect a cable problem or the converter on the H20, or the H20 itself. Just curious if anyone else has seen similar signal issues with the H20. Thanks

The H20 has lower relative readings than previous receivers. A good normal reading may be in the 70s, with some xpndrs a bit higher or lower.

But if you're having severe pixelization problems, that's not normal.

...It was working fine until yesterday. 101 sat average signal is mid 60's to low 70's, 119 high 40's to low 60's and 110 mid 60's....
Your readings are too low... Typically, you should get a range of high 70s and 80s, and just a few 90s.

Check for budding trees that might now be blocking your signal, a bumped dish knocking it out of alignment, or something that physically hurt the coax and its connectors.

Is the H20 (or more accurately, the dish) more prone to problems with snow? I'm just about at the end of my rope and thinking I might have to throw in the towel. My H20 was installed 2 weeks ago and I had very bad reception - readings in the 50's, mostly. Service came out yesterday and got them up to the mid-high 70's, which from reading this board I know is about right.

Today we had maybe an inch of snow in Chicago. While it is the heavy wet variety, it is only an inch. My readings are essentially zeroed out, with a few in the 30's. Hey - it snows in Chicago!, and my dish is on the very top of my roof, barely accessible with a very long ladder and certainly not so several times a day to clear off snow. I never had this problem with my old dish. If this is what I can expect I guess I'll just need to cancel the service and go back to cable!

Is the H20 (or more accurately, the dish) more prone to problems with snow? I'm just about at the end of my rope and thinking I might have to throw in the towel. My H20 was installed 2 weeks ago and I had very bad reception - readings in the 50's, mostly. Service came out yesterday and got them up to the mid-high 70's, which from reading this board I know is about right.

Today we had maybe an inch of snow in Chicago. While it is the heavy wet variety, it is only an inch. My readings are essentially zeroed out, with a few in the 30's. Hey - it snows in Chicago!, and my dish is on the very top of my roof, barely accessible with a very long ladder and certainly not so several times a day to clear off snow. I never had this problem with my old dish. If this is what I can expect I guess I'll just need to cancel the service and go back to cable!

I have an AT-9 out in Mundelein and no problems today. Today's snow, at least up here, was that nice wet/heavy snow that tends to build up on the dish and lnb. In the past my old phase III dish would need to get the snow wiped off on a day like today.

Is the H20 (or more accurately, the dish) more prone to problems with snow? I'm just about at the end of my rope and thinking I might have to throw in the towel. My H20 was installed 2 weeks ago and I had very bad reception - readings in the 50's, mostly. Service came out yesterday and got them up to the mid-high 70's, which from reading this board I know is about right.

Today we had maybe an inch of snow in Chicago. While it is the heavy wet variety, it is only an inch. My readings are essentially zeroed out, with a few in the 30's. Hey - it snows in Chicago!, and my dish is on the very top of my roof, barely accessible with a very long ladder and certainly not so several times a day to clear off snow. I never had this problem with my old dish. If this is what I can expect I guess I'll just need to cancel the service and go back to cable!

I live in Barrington and had a similar situation to yours. When they installed your new dish, did Apex use the mounting bracket for the LNB5? It's basically two stabilizing rods that anchor the dish into your roof. WHen my initial installation was done, Apex didn't use the mounting kit (they didn't even seem to know about it), and a week after my installation, my signal numbers began to slip. The LNB5 dish is considerably heavier than the previous non HD dish, and without the mounting bracket, the dish can slip if it's not properly installed. After 5 attempts, I finally got Apex to come out and install it correctly. Since then, no problems.

Definitely let D* know about your problem. They were very understanding and insisted Apex get back out there and do it right.

-Tom

I live in Barrington and had a similar situation to yours. When they installed your new dish, did Apex use the mounting bracket for the LNB5? It's basically two stabilizing rods that anchor the dish into your roof. WHen my initial installation was done, Apex didn't use the mounting kit (they didn't even seem to know about it), and a week after my installation, my signal numbers began to slip. The LNB5 dish is considerably heavier than the previous non HD dish, and without the mounting bracket, the dish can slip if it's not properly installed. After 5 attempts, I finally got Apex to come out and install it correctly. Since then, no problems.

Definitely let D* know about your problem. They were very understanding and insisted Apex get back out there and do it right.

-Tom

Nope - no stabilizing brackets. As a matter of fact, the installer threw them to the ground and left them there. My dish is on the flat roof over a dormer, and is just mounted with the main post - no further brackets.

UPDATE - Just called D*. Another service call in the offing, but they can't come until the 15th which means another 2 weeks (almost) without TV and then another day off work.......

Im having the same problem. My dish was installed last week. It worked fine until the storm yesterday. I tried to watch last night and noticed that all transponder signals had dropped to 0. My dish is easily accessible since I have a deck on my roof. I went up and wiped the snow off the dish thinking that would fix the problem, it didnt. Fortunately I still have my old 3lnb dish up there so I plugged my H20 back into that and got signal back. The 3nlb dish was covered with snow and worked just fine. :cool:

dgordo,

Call D* and complain.
The 5LNB needs to be on a sturdier mount than previous dishes.

FURTHER UPDATE: I quickly checked my signals before I left for work this morning. At this point the dish has just a little bit of snow on the lower third - light enough to see the dish through it. My signals are back up into the 40's and 50's, but still nowhere near where they should be.

After calling D* last night and getting an appointment for a service call 10 days from now I also sent them an e-mail asking to be put in touch with a customer service specialist who can actually help me reach conclusion on this series of problems (that are now going back to Thanksgiving weekend so we're into month four!)

...I also sent them an e-mail asking to be put in touch with a customer service specialist who can actually help me reach conclusion on this series of problems (that are now going back to Thanksgiving weekend so we're into month four!)
AAARGH!

Your situation reminds me of the go-round with scumcast I had back in 1995. They never could fix my music choice service and HBO was full of herringbone lines. That's when I switched to D*....

I had dish network for two years, paid $6 a month for service insurance and never needed it once. So when I got directv a week ago I declined the service insurance. After reading this thread I think I'll call them and tell them I want it. :eek:

The mounting Brackets are very important for stability and support of the
5LNB kaku sat dish. These are almost always required.

the option that you also have is to purchase a dish heating element.
i don't know any websites off hand where you can get info on these.

Also check the cables, are in good condition and that there are no
splitters, dixplexers, or additional Multiswitch ( there should only be one
multiswitch 6x8 KaKu Switch ).

i Hope i was able to help =)

-Brine

You guys in the Chicago area; your outages were because of the snow. I lost most of my HD channels for a couple of hours. The heavy wet snow we had sticks to the dish and the LNB's, blocking the signal. This type of snow is always a problem. Do not panic. The snow will melt. In fact, I bet all of you have your signals back by now.

You guys in the Chicago area; your outages were because of the snow. I lost most of my HD channels for a couple of hours. The heavy wet snow we had sticks to the dish and the LNB's, blocking the signal. This type of snow is always a problem. Do not panic. The snow will melt. In fact, I bet all of you have your signals back by now.

Part of my point was that this type/amount of snow never affected my old round dish. This is Chicago - we have snow on the dish for months on end. If a very small amount of snow is going to make me lose signal, this means that I won't have reliable service for 5 months of the year. This is not acceptable. If small amounts of snow cause this problem with the new dish they shouldn't market them in snowy regions.

You guys in the Chicago area; your outages were because of the snow. I lost most of my HD channels for a couple of hours. The heavy wet snow we had sticks to the dish and the LNB's, blocking the signal. This type of snow is always a problem. Do not panic. The snow will melt. In fact, I bet all of you have your signals back by now.


I thought this at first but this is not the case. I still cant get any signal with this dish and all the snow hs gone from it. Comparing the position of the 5lnb to the 3lnb, it is obvious that the dish has moved. And others have pointed out the 3lnb dish never had this problem with this amount of snow. I called D* to have them install the support brackets, they are coming on sunday.

My tech told me when he came out that they have had a ton of complaints about the 5lnb. He said they've spent so much time going out to people's houses to readjust the 5lnb's that they're now behind on new customer installs. I went with the 3lnb instead because I didnt have a line of site from a poll-mounted 5lnb.

You guys in the Chicago area; your outages were because of the snow.....
Snow? snow. whazzat? Oh, that's another reason I enjoy living down here in Texas. :cool:

I had an install Saturday: 5LNB dish, H20, and three D11. The installer was super. He put the dish on a pole (with concrete anchor) in a spot right next to the back corner of my house that I did not think would have been possible. Did a very clean job with all the cables, and made sure I had about 95% reception (as measured on the D11s) on all satellites. Very impressed with install job. The reception on the H20 (which I gather is more unforgiving) was listed in the mid-70s. He also took his time. Went from 8:00 until around 1:30. Very professional.

I can only see three satellites in my install (101, 110, and 119, I think - but I gather that is because I am not in an area which can use the local channels in high def yet. Is that correct?

The H20 did the software load to F06 and took awhile. No problems at all with the H20, except I noted it gets really hot. Is that normal?? And does it have a temperature gauge?

I am using the HDMI port to the TV (Monster cable, 4 ft run). The SD picture quality looks pretty good - but not as good as my analog cable looked -- lots of pixelation problems apparent in areas of movement in picture. HD signal is pretty good. I'm not sure whether I should let TV (Toshiba 37HL95) do the conversion and put H20 in native mode or not. What is the consensus (if any)? The SD picture actually looks better on the D11s with old TVs - but they are not large screens or detailed enough to make pixellation apparent.

No reboot problems with H20 as of yet, but I am not using an external antenna for locals.

Other than that, I am happy with the H20 and the install job.

Snow? snow. whazzat? Oh, that's another reason I enjoy living down here in Texas. :cool:

I am not sure about snow since I live in TX as well. However I am a 10 year D* subscriber and have ALWAYS had fading during heavy rain with the original round dish and the 3LNB. That is, until now with the 5LNB. I got the AT9 in early December. We have had a half dozen storms with heavy rain come through during that time. I have not gotten a single fade or break up of signal. Nor have I seen the signal drop below the 50 - 60 level on any transponder on any satellite even during the heaviest rain. My guess is that this is a product of increased fade margin, better receiver sensitivity, and better DSP processing. I am still amazed at the performance.

And yes, I do have support struts on my AT9. I also have four 120' home runs of RG6 going to my 3 receivers.

Well, I think once the AT9 is well-braced, wind-braced, and carefully aligned, it will give an incredible reflection to the LNBs for a great signal. My old RCA DirecTV receiver gave me low 90s or so with a carefully aligned 3LNB dish. The same receiver is giving high 90s on the AT9. My little single-celled brain thinks that is impressive. My H20 readings are in high 70s to an occasional 99 - 100.

Suffice it to say, I rarely have rain-fade, although I experienced a weird issue when this system first went on-line: OLD RCA receiver, NEW H20. The H20 went through a rain fade and the RCA did not with both connected to the AT9 at the same time. Weird. That has never happened again.

I lost signals with a 3LNB dish overnight and they were back this morning when the snow melted. The only other time in 5 years of use that I had a winter outage was after an ice storm coated the LNBs 2 years ago. Service returned when the ice melted off the LNBs even though the dish was still coated. The problem happens when the LNBs get coated and it doesn't happen often.

Kentucky, I also have the Tosh HL3795 and the H20. I am in Chicago and have the 5lnb mounted to the side of my 3-flat in Chicago. I don't have what I would call Pixelization problems, my SD picture just looks like crap; I am sure its because I am getting used to watching the HD channels. My HD channels look great; watching TNT and it's "stretch-o-vision" will get you sick if you do it to long. Let the Toshiba to all the upscaling and downscaling; leave the h20 set to natural. I have tried letting the h20 upscale everything to 1080, but it just doesn't look as good as having the Tosh do it. That's how I feel now, and I may change my mind. Others in this group may have different opinions. Try the Tosh connected to an upscaling DVD player via HDMI. I viewed "band of brothers" with this setup and it looked very close to HD with the DVD player set to upscale to 1080.

How do you like your HL3795?

...The reception on the H20 (which I gather is more unforgiving) was listed in the mid-70s. I haven't had any experience with it being more unforgiving of signal drops. The meter has a lower relative reading for satellite xpndrs & OTA reception than other receivers. A reading on an older receiver may show 90s while the H20 shows 70s. It is normal.

No problems at all with the H20, except I noted it gets really hot.It shoud get fairly warm when on, but not so hot you can't hold your hand on it. If so, call D* and tell them your H20 is too hot to touch. They'll arrange for a replacement.

I'm not sure whether I should let TV (Toshiba 37HL95) do the conversion and put H20 in native mode or not. Try both and decide with your eyes, since it depends on your monitor. Most people have found that the H20 has an excellent scaler and usually makes SD channels look better if it does the upconversion, so they have turned Native off. Disabling native will also make channel changes faster when you go from one resolution channel to another.

If you turn native off, compare 720p vs 1080i PQ and use the one looks best on your monitor, then disable the other resolutions in setup menu. You'll have less choices to have to cycle through when hitting the Format button on the Remote.

Kentucky, I also have the Tosh HL3795 and the H20. I am in Chicago and have the 5lnb mounted to the side of my 3-flat in Chicago. I don't have what I would call Pixelization problems, my SD picture just looks like crap; I am sure its because I am getting used to watching the HD channels. My HD channels look great; watching TNT and it's "stretch-o-vision" will get you sick if you do it to long. Let the Toshiba to all the upscaling and downscaling; leave the h20 set to natural. I have tried letting the h20 upscale everything to 1080, but it just doesn't look as good as having the Tosh do it. That's how I feel now, and I may change my mind. Others in this group may have different opinions. Try the Tosh connected to an upscaling DVD player via HDMI. I viewed "band of brothers" with this setup and it looked very close to HD with the DVD player set to upscale to 1080.

How do you like your HL3795?

Mikey,

I love the Toshiba 37HL95. Its a great TV. I am a research scientist and I like to research every major decision to death and I thoroughly explored every other unit out there before buying it. Since I just switched to Directv, I miss the TVGuide feature. I actually got used to it and I had it all customized the way I wanted it. But, oh well, my cable company was horrible, so this is a small loss. I do think that the standard def pictures looked better from cable then they do on Directv. The HD pictures look super.

Since this is an H20 forum, though, I had better keep on focus. Is there any way on the remote to go up and down a page at a time on the guide? Also, is there a way to turn off the filter view you get after pressing the Guide button one time? Scrolling up and down one channel at a time is very slow and tedious. Sound quality is great - especially on the HD channels.

Also, in Feb. when I called Directv they said they were adding the National Geographic Channel (HD) and another channel (can't remember what it was - maybe TNTHD??) in the first part of March. Doesn't look like it has happened yet. Has anyone else heard this?

Snow update. I feel like this is one of those old radio serials - on the last episode.....

You will recall:

On Saturday they came out and tuned the dish and left with signals in the 70's
On Sunday it snowed and I was zeroed out across the board.
This morning, with just a bit of snow on the lower third of the dish I had 20's and 30's
This evening, with the dish clear, I'm back up to low 60's to low 70's, with the occasional zero (where there used to be signal - haven't figured out what they match up to, maybe something I've taken off my viewing list). The channels are viewable, but with a fair number of dropouts. This is pretty much where I was before the service call on Saturday.

Looks like the snow knocked things out of whack again.

As to my e-mail to *TV. I got an e-mail response saything they'd forwarded my message to a customer service rep and that I would hear within 48 hours - nothing today.

... Is there any way on the remote to go up and down a page at a time on the guide? Also, is there a way to turn off the filter view you get after pressing the Guide button one time?Hit CH UP of CH DN to go a page at a time (it says "Page" to the right of the ch buttons).
Use Green & Red buttons to go ahead and back 12 hrs at a time in the guide.
Use the BLUE button for a quick 1-line guide.
You can not turn off filter view. You have to hit Guide button twice to get to your guide. Stupid design and probably the #1 complaint on this thread.
There supposedly is a new guide coming later in the year, so all of this may change.


they said they were adding the National Geographic Channel (HD) and another channel (can't remember what it was - maybe TNTHD??) in the first part of March. Doesn't look like it has happened yet. Has anyone else heard this?TNT has been on ch 75 for a while. Go into your favorites list and add it. You'll be disappointed with it though. Most 4:3 crap on TNT is fake stretched to 16:9. Don't blame D* blame TNT.

Just set up my H20 yesterday - I am in an MPEG-4 area but do not have my AT9 dish yet. A couple of questions about the guide.
It looks like there is no way of editing the "channels I get" list - that means I can't remove the MPEG-4 channels from this list, yes?
I am getting around this by setting up a custom guide with the MPEG-4 locals deleted. Works OK except the filtering does not work properly. If I select High Definition channels (which is supposed to be a filter on the custom guide) then most of the MPEG-4 channels are correctly missing except for one channel - it is the first channel in the "channels I get" list and although it is not in the custom guide it still appears in the HD guide. I assume this is just a software bug but has anyone else seen this??

My H20 has been activated last night and I tried to program the remote control to work on my new Akai plasma to no prevail (using the osd instructions). Does any one have any luck using this feature?
I'd like also to add that the favorites add/delete channel is among the quirkiest guide I've ever seen from a STB and I do not think I'm the only person who complains

My H20 has been activated last night and I tried to program the remote control to work on my new Akai plasma to no prevail (using the osd instructions). Does any one have any luck using this feature?

Out of the box it worked with my Sony TV's

My H20 has been activated last night and I tried to program the remote control to work on my new Akai plasma to no prevail (using the osd instructions). Does any one have any luck using this feature?Try code search. There may be a working code listed under a different brand TV.

Anyone else notice some pixelation every once in a while on CBS HD LIL CHICAGO?

...
I am getting around this by setting up a custom guide with the MPEG-4 locals deleted. Works OK except the filtering does not work properly...

You are correct, the filters are useless as they don't filter your custom list you've set as default.

Hopefully, this will be addressed when the guide is revamped later this year.

Anyone else notice some pixelation every once in a while on CBS HD LIL CHICAGO?
CBS Chicago (2) is the worst of the four local D* MPEG 4 channels. Pixelation occurs most frequently.

Paul M

This morning my H20 rebooted whenever I tuned to channel 4-1 (KNBC). Unplugging and replugging the power did not solve this. Reloading the software did not help either. I had to disconnect the OTA antenna then tune to another channel to resume normal operation.

I have tried all the fixes recommended and nothing worked. It happens on 11-1 Baltimore station. Luckily, I can still get NBC in Washington DC.

I thought the last update fixed the problem, but it didn't. It even rebooted while watching HBO HD. That was a first! It usually only reboots while watching a local OTA HD channel (local Detroit FOX 2-1, but, lately NBC 4-1 is the favorite crash channel).

has anyone called CBS 2?


the installer ran 4 cables in my basement, then connected them to longer cables the each receiver. Is this okay?

My H20 has been activated last night and I tried to program the remote control to work on my new Akai plasma to no prevail (using the osd instructions). Does any one have any luck using this feature?
I'd like also to add that the favorites add/delete channel is among the quirkiest guide I've ever seen from a STB and I do not think I'm the only person who complains


For $29 get the "All for One" 8910. it controls everything and is upgradeable via phone. Set up macros, etc. makes life easy for me, otherwise my wife would be calling me every 15 minutes trying to figure out what remote works what...... ;)

This sucks, i have gone through 3 H20 recievers, and there is still pixelation when there is fast motion, D* keeps saying no one has this problem at all. I'm about to give up on them and goto cable, anyone know how i can fix this?

Many cablecos and even OTA stations also have motion artifact problems.

I have a friend with comcrash who is about as frustrated with them as you are with D*. He gets motion artifacts + freezing pic & STB lockups (yes, they've replaced every box, splitter & cable from his TV to the pole). But if your cableco can provide a picture w/ less motion artifacts than D*, go for it.

...the installer ran 4 cables in my basement, then connected them to longer cables the each receiver. Is this okay?
Should be, as long as those cables are home runs to each receiver and there aren't any splitters in the lines.

That wouldn't be the source of your CBS LIL problem.

This sucks, i have gone through 3 H20 recievers, and there is still pixelation when there is fast motion, D* keeps saying no one has this problem at all. I'm about to give up on them and goto cable, anyone know how i can fix this?
This is one of those things in which I wish we could all go to your house and look this over. I'm convinced there's a fixable problem, but what? Pixelation with local channels, OTA channels, satellite channels? I think you have mentioned these?

Pixelation is caused by errors on the data stream. From reading your past letters, I'm not convinced it is the H20 receiver. Obviously, I'm assuming you have decent signal strength.

I would like to see you hook up just an old TV to your H20. You don't have to disconnect the cable going to your plasma monitor. I'd like to know if your old TV cuts up when an intense motion scene occurs, and/or when the plasma cuts up.

I think my next thing would be to hook up the plasma via the component cables that came with the H20, as a test.

My thoughts are that the issue is in the plasma monitor, possibly with the digital cable. If this were mine, I would start working with the cables, do different hookup methods, see how the old analog TV works with the same movie. Anything to isolate the problem.

These H20s are good receivers. The interface stinks and guide access is stooopid, but the imagery is great. I just think there is something else going on. I wish we could all pay a visit and help.

This sucks, i have gone through 3 H20 recievers, and there is still pixelation when there is fast motion, D* keeps saying no one has this problem at all. I'm about to give up on them and goto cable, anyone know how i can fix this?


I have a Samsung DLP hooked up with an H20 and on pans I get blurriness. Take for instance tonight while watching American Idol. When they introduce all the singers at the start of the show, as they walk off the screen they seem to blur off the screen. I don't think a change in boxes will do you any good. This happened with my Samsung STB as well.

This is one of those things in which I wish we could all go to your house and look this over. I'm convinced there's a fixable problem, but what? Pixelation with local channels, OTA channels, satellite channels? I think you have mentioned these?

Pixelation is caused by errors on the data stream. From reading your past letters, I'm not convinced it is the H20 receiver. Obviously, I'm assuming you have decent signal strength.

I would like to see you hook up just an old TV to your H20. You don't have to disconnect the cable going to your plasma monitor. I'd like to know if your old TV cuts up when an intense motion scene occurs, and/or when the plasma cuts up.

I think my next thing would be to hook up the plasma via the component cables that came with the H20, as a test.

My thoughts are that the issue is in the plasma monitor, possibly with the digital cable. If this were mine, I would start working with the cables, do different hookup methods, see how the old analog TV works with the same movie. Anything to isolate the problem.

These H20s are good receivers. The interface stinks and guide access is stooopid, but the imagery is great. I just think there is something else going on. I wish we could all pay a visit and help.

Thank you for your reply,

I do get pixelations or squares when there is fast motion like durning commercials or when the screen changes fast, i see the pixelations on shows but not movies like on hbo hd. I do notice it on CBS locals too. I have tried it with both HDMI and component. I have had 2 tech came out, and they said the singal is ok, but they never go on to check any wireing. I have a pioneer 4360, i play xbox360 with it and don't see no pixelation with fast movements. The pixelation is not that bad if i'm sitting far away
but i do sit close sometimes and will notice everything. The pixelation is not like if the signal is going out, it's more like small squares when a new picture is coming in. And does american idol in hd looks bad? To me it looks so soft and nothing like the face to face with firestone on hdnet, i see that picture looks the best.

Quick question: Is there anyway to test the H20 to ensure that the HDMI port is working? I just bought a new Samsung DLP set that has HDMI, but when I hook up the cable it doesn't show up as an option when I toggle between sources. I need to figure out if I have a bad cable, bad input on my TV, or bad output on my H20. Since I don't have another TV that has HDMI inputs I'm not sure how to figure this out. Don't want to go through the trouble of returning the TV if that's not the problem. Wasn't sure if there was a menu item that could help me out. Thanks.

danc8379, does component video work? I hooked up HDMI-DVI and it worked auto- matically. Hopefully it's the box and not the TV. do you have a neighbor or friend that can let you try his box? Or go to Wal-mart and get another cable for $25.....They have a great return policy.

...I do get pixelations or squares when there is fast motion like durning commercials or when the screen changes fast, i see the pixelations on shows but not movies like on hbo hd. I do notice it on CBS locals too. ....
OK, this is just a guess...... going by messages elsewhere on this board that are not DirecTV specific, but are local channel HDTV reception issues. Local HDTV quality is still in transition. Quality varies incredibly depending on the local television station.

Often, we will get a digital broadcast, but the source is not HDTV, resulting in a low-quality, analog type program. The only advantage at that point of a digital broadcast is that there is no ghosting or snow, like we used to get in the old days. But, again, the transmission, at that time, might not be high-def, but digital.

Locally in the Houston area, our stations broadcast the national high-def network programs, but the news casts from the local channels are not high-def. So, the image is soft, I see issues that bug me because I'm too spoiled on the high-def that the national network programs broadcast on these very same channels. As soon as one of these stations switch into a high-def network, then the quality potentially improves. I say "potentially" because we are still at the mercy of that local station relaying the content.

I would like to hazard a guess that you are comparing against high-def signals your non high-def content, albeit digital. That large monitor of yours is going to amplify issues, both good and bad. I think your problem is primarily your local stations' quality issues.

Now, mix in this soup of signals going up to the DirecTV satellite and back down to you and things can get exciting.

Likewise, I'd bet digital cable will give you the same problems, assuming we are hitting on the same stations.

Now, again, I'm basing all of this on the messages at the avsforum website regarding HDTV reception that is NOT satellite. There are LOTS of complaints. We are still in the early stages of HDTV. Things are still in transition.

Yes, component works fine. I've had so many people tell me that they can't see a difference between HDMI and component that if it is the TV I may not even return it. I'll check Wal-Mart for a cable and try that, but I have to think its either the TV or the D* box.

There is definitely a problem with CBS MPEG4 in NY. All the other stations are perfect. The only problem channel is CBS. I have seen it clear up, and then go back to looking lousy. I find it hard to believe that everyone is having the same problem with the same channel and Directv does not notice this. OTA CBS is fine through the H20. This one problem may be reason enough for me to go back to cable if Directv can not fix this.

danc8379,
There is no toggle on the H20. All outputs on the H20 are hot simultaneously.

Check your TV's input settings, and/or replace the HDMI cable.
If that doesn't help, it may be the H20.

...OTA CBS is fine through the H20. This one problem may be reason enough for me to go back to cable if Directv can not fix this.
But, it still "probably" isn't a DirecTV issue. DirectTV is going to grab what it receives from that station. If that station is pumping poor quality content from that station's uplink, then DirecTV is going to relay the same quality content. This would be different quality content from the OTA.

About the only advantage of the cable is if the cable system is able to receive OTA without going through that station's satellite broadcast.

larry,
In our area, the cablcos are getting their hd signals for cable headends OTA. Any OTA errors are usually multiplied when they get converted to QAM and sent to the customer.

If D* gets their locals OTA for uplink, I suspect that's the same problem D* is having.
MPEG2 garbage in = more MPEG4 garbage out. I would think the problem would be worse for locals that insist on multicasting during HD.

i decided to disable 1080i on my h20, as i have a 1280x720 set, i also attempted to disable 480p to limit the cycles i have to go through but it wont disable. is this normal, or an issue with my reciever?

Let me be a little more clear...

CBS 2 NY looks fine OTA and is fine via Directv on MPEG2 Channel 80

It is only the MPEG4 channel 2. The other MPEG4 channels look even better than their MPEG2 counterparts. It seems that the people who notice this problem have their local MPEG4 CBS as channel 2. This might very well be a hardware problem that is affecting only channel 2 MPEG4.

All other channels come in perfectly. Installation or other problems should not affect only 1 channel amongs hundreds.

i decided to disable 1080i on my h20, as i have a 1280x720 set, i also attempted to disable 480p to limit the cycles i have to go through but it wont disable. is this normal, or an issue with my reciever?

Seems to be normal behavior for the H20. I'm not sure exactly why, but 480p is always checked.

Seems to be normal behavior for the H20. I'm not sure exactly why, but 480p is always checked.
thanks. of course, it would be the one resolution i never bother with :rolleyes:

i decided to disable 1080i on my h20, as i have a 1280x720 set, i also attempted to disable 480p to limit the cycles i have to go through but it wont disable. is this normal, or an issue with my reciever?

Not a defect.
480p can't be disabled because it's the default SD resolution for non-hdmi connections, if the broadcaster uses the broadcast flag to downconvert an HD program due to copyright laws.

See example of downrezzing to 480p on the broadcast flag test channel:
Connect your H20 to your TV via component.
Leave the H20 on 720p and tune to channel 498.
The H20 will ask you to reduce the resolution to 480p.
If you don't switch to 480p, you can't view that channel via component. You can only watch it in 720p or 1080i via HDMI.

Not a defect.
480p can't be disabled because it's the default SD resolution for non-hdmi connections, if the broadcaster uses the broadcast flag to downconvert an HD program due to copyright laws.

See example of downrezzing to 480p on the broadcast flag test channel:
Connect your H20 to your TV via component.
Leave the H20 on 720p and tune to channel 498.
The H20 will ask you to reduce the resolution to 480p.
If you don't switch to 480p, you can't view that channel via component. You can only watch it in 720p or 1080i via HDMI.
that sucks, you would think i'd be able to disable it then if i am using an HDMI connection(which i am).

I have been thinking of switching from my big C-Band to Direst with the H20. I have a Sony 34XBR2 which does not have an HDMI connection. Will I be able to view < in HD > with the component connection?

Yes, component works fine. I've had so many people tell me that they can't see a difference between HDMI and component that if it is the TV I may not even return it. I'll check Wal-Mart for a cable and try that, but I have to think its either the TV or the D* box.

Yes, but at sometime in the future (very soon) you'll want that HDMI input to work especially when HD DVD hits the market. It is true, I really can not see much of a difference with HDMI (DVI) and Component video inputs, But you'll want to make sure you tv is "future proof". Either way, call Directv and get a new box....they should exchange free of charge if it's less than 90 days old.

However, may as well try the cable first.(make sure all pins and connections are clean). I do not know what type of tv you have, but is there a menu to "enable" HDMI?

has anyone called CBS 2?


the installer ran 4 cables in my basement, then connected them to longer cables the each receiver. Is this okay?

I'm trading e-mails with CBS 2 today. When I asked the person for details on their transmission, he sent this information:


Ku - band 2
11.750 - 12.500 GHz
Downlink DBS

Can someone translate?

Also, when asked about the audio/video synch problems he said "that's a *TV problem, we're sending them out simultaneously."

I have been thinking of switching from my big C-Band to Direst with the H20. I have a Sony 34XBR2 which does not have an HDMI connection. Will I be able to view < in HD > with the component connection?

Yes. In the future they may activate HDCP and you wouldn't be able to view HD via D* using component. But it's no sure thing when or if they will actually do so.

I have been thinking of switching from my big C-Band to Direst with the H20. I have a Sony 34XBR2 which does not have an HDMI connection. Will I be able to view < in HD > with the component connection?


Yes, as long as you have compnent video inputs and 1080I, your good to go. ;)

SPLITER.

When you say spliter do you mean having 2 feeds off of one rg6?

My cable looks like this:
------------------------------------house----wire cut--------new wire attached and ran to reciver


this is a home run but split when it enters the house.

Ive seen pixies too. Usually during a hockey game. But I got it sometimes with my Sony SATHD100 and 300 units as well. The HD cant keep up with the action (yet)

For anybody with the H20 and Sony A10 ...

Is there a code to program the Sony remote to operate the H20?

Ive seen pixies too. Usually during a hockey game. But I got it sometimes with my Sony SATHD100 and 300 units as well. The HD cant keep up with the action (yet)

I have only experienced some pixelating on certain HD programming. Never on Hockey or football or any sports. However, I have had real bad pixelation during a Showtime concert....when they had strobe lights going like crazy and confetti flying all over...it was unbearable.Big 1" x 1" blocks... I had to turn it off. However, I have seen other concerts with similar conditions and look completely awesome. I think it depends on the feed, compression rates, etc.

Yes, but at sometime in the future (very soon) you'll want that HDMI input to work especially when HD DVD hits the market.

This comment reminded me of a question Ive had that I have never been able to find an answer to. My tv only has one HDMI connection and I have my H20 running to it. If I buy an HD or Blu-Ray dvd player, can I only run either it or my H20 through HDMI, or is there any way I can run both like through an adapter or something? Or will I be forced to run one of them through composite?

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=640183

I have 2 H20 receivers; one hooked to a Panasonic Plasma with a HDMI cable and one hooked to a Samsung DLP using component cables. Signal strength is 85 to 95 on all SATS and I get pixalilation, freezing, etc. frequently (i.e. 3 freezes lasting 15 seconds in a one hour show is not uncommon). It occurs mostly on the Washington DC local channels but it does occur some on the other D* channels. The last time I tried to download the latest firmware upgrade (apparently received in some markets) I was still unable to get the latest revision. Don't know if this would correct the problem or not but this is getting extremely frustrating. Nothing like losing 15 seconds of 24......you can get lost in that amount of time watching that show.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=640183

Thanks. Thats one expensive product for all it does. I guess I'll have to get one eventually though.

I think most people were actually sceptical of the Monoprice b/c it is so 'cheap.' Pretty much every other product that does anything similar runs 400-500. If you just need 2-3 inputs then you can get down to $40-60.

[edit] Didn't mean in any way to imply that the Monoprice was a bad product, but much of the initial response was essentially how could it possibly be good at that price. Obviously most of the posts in that thread indicate it is a very nice product at a fraction of the cost of the next most similar products. To read a post that calls that product expensive was somewhat surprising.

keelmd,
Call DirecTV tech support at 800 263-0038

Help? :confused:

I finally got my Panasonic plasma monitor today (TH-50PHD8UK) and as anticipated, I can't get the settings of the monitor, Denon receiver (4306) and the D* H20 correct... I have read all 3 million posts in this thread and I am completely confused...

I have connected the Denon with both HDMI and component. The H20 is being input into the Denon with both HDMI and component too.

All is great except, for example, when I switch to DVD and then switch back to watch using the H20 --- the H20 goes into an endless rebooting loop.

After I unplug the power to my H20 and also disconnect the HDMI cable from it, I re-power the H20 and it boots up using component. When I reconnect the HDMI cable into the H20 it works --- using 480p resolution.

When I then change the H20's resolution the receiver starts the reboot loop again.

I have H20 native turned on and 480p is selected (720p and 1080i unchecked). If I turn native off, it reboots continuously whenever the HDMI cable is plugged in...

What do I need to do?

THANKS!

... But it's no sure thing when or if they will actually do so. [activate HDCP]
This is true.

And D* won't make that decision, the content owner will. FWIW, macrovision CP has been included in most every D* receiver ever sold. But they don't activate it.

From the H20 user manual:
"This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by U.S. patents and other intellectual property rights. Use of this copyright protection technology must be authorized by Macrovision Corporation, and is intended for home and other limited viewing uses only unless otherwise authorized by Macrovision. Reverse engineering or disassembly is prohibited.

Due to restrictions imposed by copyright holders, certain programming may include content protection measures that may restrict viewing
in high definition and/or recording with certain consumer electronics [non-hdmi] equipment attached to the receiver. Please contact the manufacturer of such equipment for additional information.
Rev. 1.1c — H20.050801"

Yes, but at sometime in the future (very soon) you'll want that HDMI input to work especially when HD DVD hits the market. It is true, I really can not see much of a difference with HDMI (DVI) and Component video inputs, But you'll want to make sure you tv is "future proof". Either way, call Directv and get a new box....they should exchange free of charge if it's less than 90 days old.

However, may as well try the cable first.(make sure all pins and connections are clean). I do not know what type of tv you have, but is there a menu to "enable" HDMI?

Yes, but HDMI is greyed out, so I can't select it. That means that the TV isn't seeing that it's hooked up. I tried a new cable today, same result. Now I need to try and figure out if it's the TV or the D* box. Not sure how to test since I only have one TV with HDMI and one D* box with HDMI. Any suggestions?

If you are using the optical audio output on the H20, try this experiment. A fellow on the Directv HDTV forum on satelliteguys discovered something crazy and two more of us confirmed his findings.

He noticed, when listening to the XM stations on his headphones, that there was no stereo separation in the signal. When he plugged in RCA cables to the L+R audio out jacks on the back of the H20 (but did not connect the other end to ANYTHING) the stereo separation returned. For some reason the optical out signal is corrected by doing this. As unbelievable as this sounds, I gave it a try and HE IS RIGHT! You don't have to turn anything off or reboot or anything. Just plug in the RCA cables - you can use the ones that came with the receiver - and leave the other end dangling. As soon as you plug them in, the stereo separation is immediately noticeable. What on earth could cause this?????

Since doing this, the sound quality on all the Directv non-5.1 channels is greatly improved. (There never seemed to be a problem with the DD 5.1 channels).

Please try this crazy experiment to see if you see the same thing. But, like I said, three of us did this and had the same result.

Yes, but HDMI is greyed out, so I can't select it. That means that the TV isn't seeing that it's hooked up. I tried a new cable today, same result. Now I need to try and figure out if it's the TV or the D* box. Not sure how to test since I only have one TV with HDMI and one D* box with HDMI. Any suggestions?

Suggestion #1: Call Directv and have them send you a new box...tell them it's defective.

Suggestion # 2: The only other suggestion (and I really don't feel comfortable telling you to do this) is purchase a DVD player with HDMI out and try it. If it works then either keep it or return it. Most places have "easy" 30 day returns. If it does not work, then most likely it's the tv and you can return the dvd player if you like.
I've seen these 1080I (upconverted) dvd players for under $100 with HDMI out.

I really feel it's the Directv box. Double check in settings, but I am 99.9% sure that I simply hooked up HDMI and it worked.

I tend to agree with mikelets456 diagnosis and solution.

Either do the HDMI DVD "trial" thing, or call D* and request a replacement H20.

When he plugged in RCA cables to the L+R audio out jacks on the back of the H20 (but did not connect the other end to ANYTHING) the stereo separation returned. For some reason the optical out signal is corrected by doing this.

Since doing this, the sound quality on all the Directv non-5.1 channels is greatly improved. (There never seemed to be a problem with the DD 5.1 channels).


I will try this tonight to see if I can improve my non 5.1 channel audio quality. However I have not really noticed a problem, but I was not expecting one either. You just left the RCA stereo cables dangling permanently?

I tend to agree with mikelets456 diagnosis and solution.

Either do the HDMI DVD "trial" thing, or call D* and request a replacement H20.

Ok, I called D* service and they told me that there is a switch on the back of the H20 that needs to be moved to the left that would make the receiver recognize the HDMI port. I don't remember seeing anything like this on the back of my receiver and I'm at work and can't check. Can anyone verify this for me? Thanks.

If you are using the optical audio output on the H20, try this experiment. A fellow on the Directv HDTV forum on satelliteguys discovered something crazy and two more of us confirmed his findings.

He noticed, when listening to the XM stations on his headphones, that there was no stereo separation in the signal. When he plugged in RCA cables to the L+R audio out jacks on the back of the H20 (but did not connect the other end to ANYTHING) the stereo separation returned. For some reason the optical out signal is corrected by doing this. As unbelievable as this sounds, I gave it a try and HE IS RIGHT! You don't have to turn anything off or reboot or anything. Just plug in the RCA cables - you can use the ones that came with the receiver - and leave the other end dangling. As soon as you plug them in, the stereo separation is immediately noticeable. What on earth could cause this?????

Since doing this, the sound quality on all the Directv non-5.1 channels is greatly improved. (There never seemed to be a problem with the DD 5.1 channels).

Please try this crazy experiment to see if you see the same thing. But, like I said, three of us did this and had the same result.

It worked here, too! Crazy.

Dana

PS. No switch for HDMI port on my H20.

I don't remember a switch. However, this was a few months ago. Also, on the website and on another site that gives a clear photo of the back, I see NO switch.

another clulesess CSR.

(forgive me for not searching thru all 60 pages for this question):

when I bring up the Info menu, there is a momentary audio dropout from the toslink connection: is there a fix for this yet?

I haven't had any audio dropouts when doing anything except hitting the Format button.