They won't upgrade your standard receivers because they don't need to be upgraded.

?????????? What do you mean they don't have to be upgraded???????

They won't upgrade your standard receivers because they don't need to be upgraded.

I believe it is D* intentions to have all their signals sent via MPEG4, so you WILL need upgrades eventually. There's no time table for this, but it's going to happen.

I bought two H20 boxes awhile back. Now I notice on the bill that I am being charged $4.99 for each box as they are now considered leases. How can that be when I bought them? Is this the way everything is going now?:confused:

They are all considered leased. Let me guess - you paid somewhere between $199 and $299 for them, maybe $160 if you went to Costco recently.... This is the price to obtain a leased box. I don't think they are even available for a true purchase anymore, but when they were, the price was considerably higher - torwards $800. The $4.99 is charged whether they are leased or owned, so it really makes no difference.

I bought two H20 boxes awhile back. Now I notice on the bill that I am being charged $4.99 for each box as they are now considered leases. How can that be when I bought them? Is this the way everything is going now?:confused:

As I remember, my DTC100 cost about $400. The DTC210 cost about $250. I bought one H20 from Sixth Ave for $169 and the other one from Solid Signal for $99. I am still using the DTC210 for OTA because the new H20s have occasional pixelization issues.

As I remember, my DTC100 cost about $400. The DTC210 cost about $250. I bought one H20 from Sixth Ave for $169 and the other one from Solid Signal for $99. I am still using the DTC210 for OTA because the new H20s have occasional pixelization issues.

The H20s are almost certainly both leased receivers.

Oh, sorry, I was thinking of the HR20 - the H20's currently go for $99, and that is a lease.



As I remember, my DTC100 cost about $400. The DTC210 cost about $250. I bought one H20 from Sixth Ave for $169 and the other one from Solid Signal for $99. I am still using the DTC210 for OTA because the new H20s have occasional pixelization issues.

I just had an AU9 Slimline and HR20 system installed (only one receiver). I don't think my mounting setup is sturdy enough. Also, I don't think the installer aimed the dish very well. I am having terrible signal dropout for the Ka-band channels (local HD, MLB package, etc.), even on clear days and nights with little wind.

I would like to set up a new mounting post and aim the dish myself. It sounds like it should not be that difficult after reading the installation instructions, but I will need a decent signal meter. Has anyone used this meter? It is very basic and cheap, but I think it should get the job done.

http://www.sadoun.com/Sat/Products/Accessories/Meters/SF95LK-DSS-Satellite-Signal-meter-Kit.htm

I think I should be able to hook this up to the one of the two cables going from the dish to my HR20 and measure both the 101-deg (13V w/no 22KHz tone) and 119-deg (13V w/ 22KHz tone) satellite levels. Can anyone confirm whether or not this meter will be enough to set up the Slimline dish using the dither method?

Thanks.

I have a new direct tv install next week.. I prewired with 2 coax. sounds like I messed up?

I have a new direct tv install next week.. I prewired with 2 coax. sounds like I messed up?

I have two coax from the dish to my receiver, but I only have one receiver. I am not sure if that would be enough for multiple receivers.

I just had an AU9 Slimline and HR20 system installed (only one receiver). I don't think my mounting setup is sturdy enough. Also, I don't think the installer aimed the dish very well. I am having terrible signal dropout for the Ka-band channels (local HD, MLB package, etc.), even on clear days and nights with little wind.

I would like to set up a new mounting post and aim the dish myself. It sounds like it should not be that difficult after reading the installation instructions, but I will need a decent signal meter. Has anyone used this meter? It is very basic and cheap, but I think it should get the job done.

http://www.sadoun.com/Sat/Products/Accessories/Meters/SF95LK-DSS-Satellite-Signal-meter-Kit.htm

I think I should be able to hook this up to the one of the two cables going from the dish to my HR20 and measure both the 101-deg (13V w/no 22KHz tone) and 119-deg (13V w/ 22KHz tone) satellite levels. Can anyone confirm whether or not this meter will be enough to set up the Slimline dish using the dither method?

Thanks.

I wouldn't even bother with that. Since the dish is already up, double check the aiming coordinates here (http://www.dishpointer.com/). (Choose the DirecTV 5lnb setting). You can tweak the dish with the help of someone that is in front of the TV watching the signal meter built into your HR20. Plumb mast is an absolute must do first step in order to make the subsequent adjustments accurately. Follow the order of adjustments listed in the manual - - use a cordless speakerphone or cell phone speakerphone at your end if needed to communicate with the person watching the HR20 signal meter (make sure they are looking at the correct transponder too, with each sat change)

I just had an AU9 Slimline and HR20 system installed (only one receiver). I don't think my mounting setup is sturdy enough. Also, I don't think the installer aimed the dish very well. I am having terrible signal dropout for the Ka-band channels (local HD, MLB package, etc.), even on clear days and nights with little wind.

I would like to set up a new mounting post and aim the dish myself. It sounds like it should not be that difficult after reading the installation instructions, but I will need a decent signal meter. Has anyone used this meter? It is very basic and cheap, but I think it should get the job done.

http://www.sadoun.com/Sat/Products/Accessories/Meters/SF95LK-DSS-Satellite-Signal-meter-Kit.htm

I think I should be able to hook this up to the one of the two cables going from the dish to my HR20 and measure both the 101-deg (13V w/no 22KHz tone) and 119-deg (13V w/ 22KHz tone) satellite levels. Can anyone confirm whether or not this meter will be enough to set up the Slimline dish using the dither method?

Thanks.

Yes you can do it. I have the exact meter and use it set up my Slimline dish when traveling in my RV (many times). Follow the directions and you will be fine.

It's not the top of the line meter but it will do the job. By-the-way, I got the same meter on eBay for around 10 dollars.

I wouldn't even bother with that. Since the dish is already up, double check the aiming coordinates here (http://www.dishpointer.com/). (Choose the DirecTV 5lnb setting). You can tweak the dish with the help of someone that is in front of the TV watching the signal meter built into your HR20. Plumb mast is an absolute must do first step in order to make the subsequent adjustments accurately. Follow the order of adjustments listed in the manual - - use a cordless speakerphone or cell phone speakerphone at your end if needed to communicate with the person watching the HR20 signal meter (make sure they are looking at the correct transponder too, with each sat change)


Well yes, this will work. However it will be much easier to do the fine adjustment (dithering--not sure on the Spelling) with the meter compare to inherit problems of trying to communicate back and forth with someone else. Trust me, I have tried both ways.

Good luck whichever way you go about it. It can be done. It's not rocket science.

I have one very similar that cost me $15 and I successfully set up a Slimline. It does take time so give yourself a couple of hours to not only get used to the meter but to get the Ka's tuned in right. Also have your HR20 at your dish with your meter to easily switch between sats to be sure you are tuned in correct. You will have great Ku signal and NO Ka at times. That is normal since the Ka signal is not as wide as the Ka signal so you need to put all your effort in the Ka's. Get the Ka's right and the Ku's will be there.

Here is a link to the Slimline manual. READ FIRST and understand it before you start to adjust your dish. It is important to get it right. http://www.solidsignal.com/manuals/Slimline_Dish_Installation_Manual.pdf Also be sure to mark you EL, AZ and TILT on your dish BEFORE you do anything in case something happens and you can't get it in again, you can at least put it back to where it was and have something to start over with.

Well yes, this will work. However it will be much easier to do the fine adjustment (dithering--not sure on the Spelling) with the meter compare to inherit problems of trying to communicate back and forth with someone else. Trust me, I have tried both ways.

Good luck whichever way you go about it. It can be done. It's not rocket science.

My only concern with that particular meter is the resolution, hard to tell the difference between 92 and 94 when you are doing the fine tuning to find the peaks. To each his own.

btw - nice tag line :)

Thanks to all of you for the feedback on the signal meters and DIY dish aiming. I will try using the HR20's meters this weekend and spring for the external meter if I find the walkie-talkie communication with my wife to be a drag!

With the dithering method, it seems that finding the peak will not be as important as having accurate measurements on the correct satellites. I have a feeling my mounting post (4"x4" wood post) has settled since the installation and thrown the mast off plumb. Obviously, that's where I'll start troubleshooting until my HOA approves a new mounting setup. (For any potential home buyers out there, avoid HOAs like the plague if you're a DIY'er!!)

I'll post a summary of my experience when finished for any other newbies who are interested.

If you plan to keep that on wood, plan also to repoint yearly, if not twice a year. Proper install calls for mounting on a 2" pole, or on a house. That wood will continue to twist and warp for its lifetime....

If you plan to keep that on wood, plan also to repoint yearly, if not twice a year. Proper install calls for mounting on a 2" pole, or on a house. That wood will continue to twist and warp for its lifetime....

No, I definitely plan to mount it on something more stable, probably a 2" pole in cement or by mounting the adjustable bracket on a concrete pad or large landscaping brick of some sort. My worry with the fencepost setup is that it will be difficult to make perfectly plumb, even though that would be the most stable setup. Living in a condo/townhouse and only owning the interior of the dwelling really cuts down on the flexibility of satellite dish installations.

Thanks!

for the new 5 lnb dishes do I need 4 coax off the roof or will two work?

for the new 5 lnb dishes do I need 4 coax off the roof or will two work?

Depends on how many inputs you need. A receiver needs one line and a DVR needs two. You can have as many or as few as you want.

Depends on how many inputs you need. A receiver needs one line and a DVR needs two. You can have as many or as few as you want.

Not to be picky, but a DVR does not NEED two. It only needs one satellite input to work. Two inputs allows for recording two shows, watch one while recording another, etc.

Well on my 'old' direct tv setup I have 2 coax going down to a multiswitch and then I run 4 or 5 receivers off that.. I am wondering with the new 5 lnb dish do I need 4 coax down to the multswitch?

Well on my 'old' direct tv setup I have 2 coax going down to a multiswitch and then I run 4 or 5 receivers off that.. I am wondering with the new 5 lnb dish do I need 4 coax down to the multswitch?

The new 5lnb, like the AU9 have all 4 outputs going into a multiswitch, usually zinwell wb68 or equivalnet. You'll get 8 outputs from the wb68.

Chances are, your old multiswitch will not work - - what's the model #?

I was not expecting the multiswitch to work. I was just hoping 2 coax off roof would be okay since that is what i ran before closing up walls.

I was not expecting the multiswitch to work. I was just hoping 2 coax off roof would be okay since that is what i ran before closing up walls.

just note that you will need 4 lines from the lnb to the new multiswitch (this can go outdoors), then you can tie your two existing lines to the multiswitch.

I have a Directv HR21. I wanted to record some home videos from my VCR to the HR21. Is this possible? The only inputs that I see are the two sat inputs.

I have a Directv HR21. I wanted to record some home videos from my VCR to the HR21. Is this possible?

No, you can only record from DirecTV.

I was not expecting the multiswitch to work. I was just hoping 2 coax off roof would be okay since that is what i ran before closing up walls.

How many tv's do you want to hook up? The 5 lnb dish (looks like a 3 lnb but it gets 5 sat's) has 4 outputs on it. AKA, you can activate 4 tuners. Since you only have two lines, you can only activate two tuners. The 5 LNB dish can be hooked up to a switch, but the HD switches are a BEAST! I mean they are HUGE. They look like a 3X8 or a 4X8 and require a power source. They require all 4 lines from the dish to go into the switch and will output 8 lines for 8 tuners. That means, your two lines just will not cut it if you want more than two tuners. Sorry.

I hooked up a switch once, and I hated it. Took forever to run all those lines.

How many tv's do you want to hook up? The 5 lnb dish (looks like a 3 lnb but it gets 5 sat's) has 4 outputs on it. AKA, you can activate 4 tuners. Since you only have two lines, you can only activate two tuners. The 5 LNB dish can be hooked up to a switch, but the HD switches are a BEAST! I mean they are HUGE. They look like a 3X8 or a 4X8 and require a power source. They require all 4 lines from the dish to go into the switch and will output 8 lines for 8 tuners. That means, your two lines just will not cut it if you want more than two tuners. Sorry.

I hooked up a switch once, and I hated it. Took forever to run all those lines.

the WB68 gets its power from the receivers
he can easily hook this up if he already has two lines

How many tv's do you want to hook up? The 5 lnb dish (looks like a 3 lnb but it gets 5 sat's) has 4 outputs on it. AKA, you can activate 4 tuners. Since you only have two lines, you can only activate two tuners. The 5 LNB dish can be hooked up to a switch, but the HD switches are a BEAST! I mean they are HUGE. They look like a 3X8 or a 4X8 and require a power source. They require all 4 lines from the dish to go into the switch and will output 8 lines for 8 tuners. That means, your two lines just will not cut it if you want more than two tuners. Sorry.

I hooked up a switch once, and I hated it. Took forever to run all those lines.


The Zinwell WB68 does not need an external power source. And it is not particularly large, it has to have room for six inputs (four from the 5-lnb dish, one from a 72.5 dish if you live in a location that uses 72.5 for locals, and one for the 95 dish if you are getting the international channels) and eight outputs. In fact IMHO it isn't quite large enough, it can sometimes be difficult to get the connectors on and off when the WB68 is mounted in a cabinet.
FYI the 5-lnb dish receives more than five satellites. Each LNB receives signals from a single orbital slot, but there can be more than one satellite in each slot. There are one at 99 (soon to be two), two at 101, two at 103, one at 110 and one at 119.

Hi there,

I've got a Terk BMS-58 (5x8) multiswitch I've been using with my HR10-250. Will this multiswitch still work with the 5-LNB dish?

Thanks,

David

Hi there,

I've got a Terk BMS-58 (5x8) multiswitch I've been using with my HR10-250. Will this multiswitch still work with the 5-LNB dish?

Thanks,

David

Depends on your definition of "works." Will it work? Yes, but you won't get the new MPEG4 channels. I've read folks who use the newer 6x8 switches, and send four cables from that switch into the Terk for older receivers that won't get the MPEG4 channels anyway.

Hi there,

I've got a Terk BMS-58 (5x8) multiswitch I've been using with my HR10-250. Will this multiswitch still work with the 5-LNB dish?

Thanks,

David

Basically, no. It will not pass the signals from the DirecTV10 (and soon DirecTV11) satellites. When you upgrade to the HR20/21 DVRs and to the 5-lnb dish, DirecTV will install a WB68 multiswitch as part of the installation.

Deezul, texasbrit, thanks for the replies. Glad that a new multiswitch is included and that I don't have to buy another one.

So it seems that the WB68 will also send MPEG2 to my older DVRs too so I can just run all of the receivers (MPEG4 and non-MPEG4) from the WB68. Is that right?

Deezul, texasbrit, thanks for the replies. Glad that a new multiswitch is included and that I don't have to buy another one.

So it seems that the WB68 will also send MPEG2 to my older DVRs too so I can just run all of the receivers (MPEG4 and non-MPEG4) from the WB68. Is that right?


Yes, the WB68 will work with all the older DirecTV receivers and DVRs. Just one point - the WB68 does not support diplexing of OTA signals like the 5x8s. The reason is that the new satellites send signals in the b-band that overlaps OTA so you can't have both satellite and OTA on the same cable.

I just had Directv installed today, and I'm having an issue, I think. The local NBC affiliate (HD) isn't coming in, and there's a message on that channel that says "No Need to call us - Your local station is working to restore their signal as soon as possilbe. This TV station is having technical difficulties"

The problem is that it's been like this literally all day. The installer noticed it at 9:30 EST when he had finished the install, and it's still like that now, at nearly 5:00.

Soooo...is this an issue that occurs frequently? I guess I'm not that happy that the station has been unavailable since I got the system...and getting a little worried since it's a little over 24 hours til a new The Office. I suppose I could watch the SD version, but I shouldn't have to.

Should I call someone or just wait it out?

Oh, this is the Harrisburg PA area (WGAL - Channel 8), if there's anyone else around this area who could check theirs.

Should I call someone or just wait it out?
Wait it out. Uh, no, call somebody. Oh, tssk. I can't decide.

Wait it out. Uh, no, call somebody. Oh, tssk. I can't decide.

Well, it's still out going on nearly 11 hours since the install. I am just more concerned because it's my first day with DirecTV after a lot of research and debate and talking the wife into it, and here I am with a major channel out since the install....never had this issue with cable with a channel being out for this long. Wouldn't be a big deal if it was...say....Spike or HGTV, but it's NBC...

If I did want to call, I would assume I'd have to call my local affiliate, and not DirecTV, right?

Or maybe I'm just being impatient and the outage is a fluke.

I used a black and white battery powered TV's video input connected to the yellow video output of my H20 when the wind shifted the alignment.

I originally set it up before the 99 and 103 satellites were live using the dithering instructions. Using the receiver with active sats I got about four points higher.

Either way works if you take your time.

I am of the school that I would rather buy and install my dish than wait all day for someone else to do it!

Well, it's still out going on nearly 11 hours since the install. I am just more concerned because it's my first day with DirecTV after a lot of research and debate and talking the wife into it, and here I am with a major channel out since the install....never had this issue with cable with a channel being out for this long. Wouldn't be a big deal if it was...say....Spike or HGTV, but it's NBC...

If I did want to call, I would assume I'd have to call my local affiliate, and not DirecTV, right?

Or maybe I'm just being impatient and the outage is a fluke.

You should call your local affiliate and see what they know about this problem.

You should call your local affiliate and see what they know about this problem.

Ok, NBC came back this morning (nearly 24 hours after the install, but I'm not sure how long it was down for prior to my install).

I am getting frustrated now though....American Idol's (Fox) HD feed has no sound...wife is watching it in SD now. Also, according to her, it only recorded the first 1/2 hour and then stopped recording. She's not sure if she might've pressed a button to stop the recording though (I am guessing that's the case)

Am I just having bad luck in my first two days with DirecTv, or did I make a mistake? Or do my locals just suck?

Hang in there. I have three DirecTV DVRs and have none of these problems and I also get Philly as my locals.

One trick to use if you start having audio interruptions on a DVR is to hit pause for about 2 seconds and then play. This usually sync the audio back to normal.

Hang in there. I have three DirecTV DVRs and have none of these problems and I also get Philly as my locals.

One trick to use if you start having audio interruptions on a DVR is to hit pause for about 2 seconds and then play. This usually sync the audio back to normal.
That problem has been solved on the HR21s with the latest software release. And just to avoid confusion, it isn't a sync issue, it's audio "stutter".

Anyone getting ABC from the Pittsburgh, PA area on Direct TV HD who is having alot of digital compression problems on the primetime shows? Ever since the shows started back up after the writers strike, the primetime shows are really bad on the backgrounds. I regularly watch Lost and Eli Stone and my wife would not miss Desperate Housewives and all 3 shows have this compression in the background.

Which is the most logical problem, the programs themselves or do I need to call Direct and ask them to come and check out my satelite to make sure it is hitting the right spot. I know nothing of these things myself and I have only had the service for 3 months. I know it looked better on ABC before and this is only in the past month+. Other than that, the service has been a great deal for the price.

Anyone near there that can give me some help?

Anyone getting ABC from the Pittsburgh, PA area on Direct TV HD who is having alot of digital compression problems on the primetime shows? Ever since the shows started back up after the writers strike, the primetime shows are really bad on the backgrounds. I regularly watch Lost and Eli Stone and my wife would not miss Desperate Housewives and all 3 shows have this compression in the background.

Which is the most logical problem, the programs themselves or do I need to call Direct and ask them to come and check out my satelite to make sure it is hitting the right spot. I know nothing of these things myself and I have only had the service for 3 months. I know it looked better on ABC before and this is only in the past month+. Other than that, the service has been a great deal for the price.

Anyone near there that can give me some help?

It does sound like your dish may need to be tweaked, but it could be a connection or something. Do you know how to check your signal strengths?

I know how to check it, but that doesn't really tell me much. I don't understand alot of it. What should I look for in the service setup on the satelite numbers?

I am watching lost repeat right now and it hasa ton of digital compression in the backgrounds. The foreground looks great as always.

I was an early adopter of DirectTV. Moved a couple of years ago, switching to cable. Moving again and switching back to DTV.

In the early days, I did all the wiring, installation, activation, etc. Now, with installation provided, I have a couple of questions:

1) How much installation do they actually do? I will be installing 3 HD sets, one to include DVR. All sets are on interior walls. Do they crawl in attics and drop lines between walls? Or, will I (should I) do that myself?

2) I see all ordering can be done online. Do you recommend I call for better deals (I was last a DTV customer in June of 2006) or are the best deals online?

3) Any current "issues" to watch out for in equipment, installation (dish), switches, etc.? (I have never used an installer, so I was able to ensure quality control.)

Thanks so much for your help.

I know how to check it, but that doesn't really tell me much. I don't understand alot of it. What should I look for in the service setup on the satelite numbers?

I am watching lost repeat right now and it hasa ton of digital compression in the backgrounds. The foreground looks great as always.

All of your numbers should be in the high 80s or better except for the NAs. If they're not you will need a realignment.

I was an early adopter of DirectTV. Moved a couple of years ago, switching to cable. Moving again and switching back to DTV.

In the early days, I did all the wiring, installation, activation, etc. Now, with installation provided, I have a couple of questions:

1) How much installation do they actually do? I will be installing 3 HD sets, one to include DVR. All sets are on interior walls. Do they crawl in attics and drop lines between walls? Or, will I (should I) do that myself?

2) I see all ordering can be done online. Do you recommend I call for better deals (I was last a DTV customer in June of 2006) or are the best deals online?

3) Any current "issues" to watch out for in equipment, installation (dish), switches, etc.? (I have never used an installer, so I was able to ensure quality control.)

Thanks so much for your help.

They don't drop through walls so you should do that yourself. Best deals can be had on the phone.

All of your numbers should be in the high 80s or better except for the NAs. If they're not you will need a realignment.
Thanks, I am going to check tonight when I get home. I looked at that before and I remember there was alot of numbers, can't remember how many. Maybe 3 or 4 lines of them and they were all in the 80's or 90's except 2 of them. They were low to mid 50.
Could they be the problem. I can check and tell you which ones, if that helps at all.

I checked my satelite settings. It says 101 has 32 substations????

All of them are 80-90, with the exception of 26 which was 69 when I checked. I know that was one of the ones before that I saw in the mid 50's. I think the other one might have been 10? I think it was in the same lines going down.

I don't know if any of that will help anyone figure out if there is aproblem with my ABC Local or not, but that is what it shows me.

I know how to check it, but that doesn't really tell me much. I don't understand alot of it. What should I look for in the service setup on the satelite numbers?

I am watching lost repeat right now and it hasa ton of digital compression in the backgrounds. The foreground looks great as always.

Lost is the worstof the worst signal wise. If NBC national shows are coming in good and your local stations are ok you are go0d with signals up around 90. A low number on the satellite that carries your locals is ok as the transponders are all spotbeams pointed at different locations and you only recieve on one or 2 of them. You can find out which ones from Direct.

I was an early adopter of DirectTV. Moved a couple of years ago, switching to cable. Moving again and switching back to DTV.

In the early days, I did all the wiring, installation, activation, etc. Now, with installation provided, I have a couple of questions:

1) How much installation do they actually do? I will be installing 3 HD sets, one to include DVR. All sets are on interior walls. Do they crawl in attics and drop lines between walls? Or, will I (should I) do that myself?

2) I see all ordering can be done online. Do you recommend I call for better deals (I was last a DTV customer in June of 2006) or are the best deals online?

3) Any current "issues" to watch out for in equipment, installation (dish), switches, etc.? (I have never used an installer, so I was able to ensure quality control.)

Thanks so much for your help.

I had DTV installed "professionally" 2 weeks ago. The installer did a good job for the most part. He placed and aligned the dish on my roof away from trees. He did not want to pull the new cables thru the wall but I insisted that he do so. He ended up doing it but I already had existing outlets and RG-59 cable. I have 4 hookups, 1 HD-DVR, 1 HD and 2 SD. He ran new RG-6 cable to the 2 HD sets (thru the wall) and spliced new RG-6 to short lengths of the existing RG-59 for the 2 SD hookups. I got a 5LNB dish, an HR21-100 DVR, an H21-100 HD and 2 D12-100 SD boxes. Everything works OK. My only problem so far is that the remotes are hard to control. BTW I receive Philly locals and the only problem I see is with Ch 17 HD, but that channel was bad on cable also.

I had installation done thru the DTV "friends" program.

Dick OKeefe

That problem has been solved on the HR21s with the latest software release. And just to avoid confusion, it isn't a sync issue, it's audio "stutter".
I think I have audio stutter on certain stations, mostly local HD channels. I have the HD20 DVR. The symptoms include no sound on the HD channels and or just the commercials. When this occurs my receiver shows DD from the voice feed. If it shows PLII there is no problems. Is this just a by product of the stutter? Should I upgrade to the HR21's?

I think I have audio stutter on certain stations, mostly local HD channels. I have the HD20 DVR. The symptoms include no sound on the HD channels and or just the commercials. When this occurs my receiver shows DD from the voice feed. If it shows PLII there is no problems. Is this just a by product of the stutter? Should I upgrade to the HR21's?

Check out the HR2* thread in the HDTV Recorders section. With the latest release there have been some DD audio receiver compatibility problems.

jdg

I've been told that DirecTV's HD-DVR can do more than my Comcast HD-DVR (an SA 8300 HD).

Is this true? If so, could someone please explain the differences?

We use the DVR a lot, so extra functionality interests me quite a bit.

I've been told that DirecTV's HD-DVR can do more than my Comcast HD-DVR (an SA 8300 HD).

Is this true? If so, could someone please explain the differences?

We use the DVR a lot, so extra functionality interests me quite a bit.

ok, i can't give you a laundry list of the differences/improvements, but i will say this: the comcast hd-dvr made me hate watching tv. i hated the speed, i hated the interface, i just hated it. i've been using my series 1 tivo for years, and that's the benchmark.

i just got the directv hd-dvr last week, and i already love it. it feels better, it's more intuitive, it feels more polished/better designed (for example, when ffwding or rewinding, it backs up a few seconds from where you stopped, just like a tivo). it's faster, i can schedule recordings over the internet, etc. it's not as good as my series 1 tivo, but considering how slow my series 2 tivo is (non-hd), i would be willing to give up tivo for the directv dvr (but the wife won't let me).

personally, and i realize you won't find this very compelling without the features list, i would switch from comcast to directv just to swap the dvr, nevermind all the extra channels.

edit: this isn't a link to the list features, but it was where i started to find out a lot of what the box would do, for example, it comes with an RF remote control: http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=67769

I've been told that DirecTV's HD-DVR can do more than my Comcast HD-DVR (an SA 8300 HD).
Is this true? If so, could someone please explain the differences?

I had TW, not Comcast, SA8300HD running SARA, from Feb 2005 to Oct 2007 when I switched to DirecTV. The DirecTV HDDVR (I have the HR20) is much better than the SA8300HD. Here are some differences:

The HR20 cannot stretch or zoom HD pictures (but the SA8300HD can).
HR20 has only one attractive color scheme for its widescreen Interactive Program Guide, while the SA8300HD offers a choice among several ugly ones for its non-widescreen IPG.
HR20 is slower than the SA8300HD.
HR20 lets you configure what channels are shown in the IPG.
HR20 has "one-touch record" -- just press the RECORD button to record the show you're watching or the one selected in the IPG. And press it again if you want to record all episodes of a series.
SA8300HD(SARA) could not remember where you left off watching a recording when you interrupt to watch another recording.
HR20 lets you assign priorities to scheduled recordings to resolve possible conflicts, and logs reasons when it can't fulfill your recording requests.
HR20 IPG goes out two weeks in the future.
HR20 search functions are useful, unlike the SA8300HD.

Well, it's still out going on nearly 11 hours since the install. I am just more concerned because it's my first day with DirecTV after a lot of research and debate and talking the wife into it, and here I am with a major channel out since the install....never had this issue with cable with a channel being out for this long. Wouldn't be a big deal if it was...say....Spike or HGTV, but it's NBC...

If I did want to call, I would assume I'd have to call my local affiliate, and not DirecTV, right?

Or maybe I'm just being impatient and the outage is a fluke.Yes, call the affiliate. I have had D* for 4 years and have never had an issue like that. A couple times I couldn't get a signal because snow had accumulated on the Dish, and once I had a hardware issue (nothing showed) but an individual problem like that is the affiliates issue, not a D* issue.

Great info... THANKS to Chris & Greg! :)

hey ppl!

Newbie to DirecTV here. Just switched over from TW Cable NYC, main reason was the larger offering of HD programs & NFL Sun Ticket. Now I get to watch my Dal Cowboys in HD outside the NYC market!

Look forward to contributing & reading through this thread.

Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks.

hey ppl!

Newbie to DirecTV here. Just switched over from TW Cable NYC, main reason was the larger offering of HD programs & NFL Sun Ticket. Now I get to watch my Dal Cowboys in HD outside the NYC market!

Look forward to contributing & reading through this thread.

Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks.

You're going to love the "Ticket"

Hi,

I had DirecTV years ago, and I am considering coming back. First, I have a few quick questions:
1) How many RG-6 lines will each HR21 need? I am getting 2 HR21s, and have two existing RG-6 cables, each one going to where each receiver will be.
2) Should I run an Ethernet cable to each receiver?
3) When the HR21 is turned off, does it make *any* noise?

Thanks!

Hi,

I had DirecTV years ago, and I am considering coming back. First, I have a few quick questions:
1) How many RG-6 lines will each HR21 need? I am getting 2 HR21s, and have two existing RG-6 cables, each one going to where each receiver will be.
2) Should I run an Ethernet cable to each receiver?
3) When the HR21 is turned off, does it make *any* noise?

Thanks!

1. You can run on one, but it is best to have two
2. for VOD you'll need it or some type of wireless set-up (I'm not sure what wireless drivers are in the OS)
3. yes

Ok, thanks.

1. This confirms what I have read. I guess a way around this is a SWM5. Is this included in the install for free?
2. Ok, I will research this.
3. Ok, maybe the one in the bedroom will have to be an H21 (non-DVR). Does an H21 make any noise when turned off?

2. for VOD you'll need it or some type of wireless set-up (I'm not sure what wireless drivers are in the OS)
The HR2x ethernet connections are wired only. No wireless. Of course, you can have a wired connection to a router or other device which itself has wireless connections.

The HR2x ethernet connections are wired only. No wireless. Of course, you can have a wired connection to a router or other device which itself has wireless connections.

oh yeah, thanks. I'm thinking of my series 2 usb network adapters

Would I have to get into a contract or anything to upgrade my H20 to an HR20 for DVR? I know I would have to change my programming package probably, but I'm not interested in getting locked into anything else if I don't have to.

First, I highly doubt you will be able to get an HR20. They pretty much only have HR21s now. Also, I believe now whenever you upgrade your equipment you are automatically signing a new contract. I think for stadard def DVRs and High def boxes it is an automatic 1 year extension, and for hi def DVRs I think it's a 2 year extension.

somehow i think it's 18 months minimum

Believe any time you get a "freebie" from D* a 2 year commitment is required

Just wondering if there is a specific thread here at AVS or on DBSTalk for those of us who have DirecTV now in SD and want to upgrade to and HD package (new wiring and receivers and HD dishes) and has all the tips/tricks on that special and possibly painful/espensive process, as compared to being a current non-D* customer and ordering or does this thread cover both situations best?

Just wondering if there is a specific thread here at AVS or on DBSTalk for those of us who have DirecTV now in SD and want to upgrade to and HD package (new wiring and receivers and HD dishes) and has all the tips/tricks on that special and possibly painful/espensive process, as compared to being a current non-D* customer and ordering or does this thread cover both situations best?

You might be able to get the HD DVR for $100 instead of $170. I spoke to a CSR last year who said you can only get one "deal" a year, so if you get one HD DVR for the lower price, don't expect to get another deal for another year. I'll hit my one year period in October or November, so I'll be hopefully upgrading one of my HD TiVos the the HD DVR. I'll probably hold onto on HD TiVo until the HR2Xs allow for Close Captioning ON for FF1 like the TiVos do.

Ive been a D* subscriber since 2001 and never upgraded
always been SD
Only thing I did a few years ago was run a 2nd cable into my step-sons room so he could get sat in his room

with my plasma now 6 months old and only OTA HD to wet my appetite its time to upgrade to HD DVRs and slimline dish

I currently use an SD D10 receiver going into a Tivo Series 2 DVR in my living room to the plasma (SD looks so nasty on my new 1080p sigh) and my son has my old Phillips DirecTV with Tivo Series 1 integrated receiver /DVR in one unit from 2001 (wth the Dual Live Buffers!) which is still working like a champ with never any issues!

You might be able to get the HD DVR for $100 instead of $170. I spoke to a CSR last year who said you can only get one "deal" a year, so if you get one HD DVR for the lower price, don't expect to get another deal for another year. I'll hit my one year period in October or November, so I'll be hopefully upgrading one of my HD TiVos the the HD DVR. I'll probably hold onto on HD TiVo until the HR2Xs allow for Close Captioning ON for FF1 like the TiVos do.

Questions: The D*TV rep tells me that the AM21 works only with the HR21 DVR. Will not work with a H21. Is that correct?

I just paid them $229 for a MPEG4 HR20 or HR21. Is that the price?

I got an H21 and was told that a software upgrade was necessary before the AM21 would work with it. Should be "before the end of the year", they told me. $229 sounds high for the HR21 but if that's what it is, then that's what it is!
Find the thread under HDTV Technical called "DirecTV AM21 (OTA Tuner) Now Available" and read that or repost there.

Questions: The D*TV rep tells me that the AM21 works only with the HR21 DVR. Will not work with a H21. Is that correct?

I just paid them $229 for a MPEG4 HR20 or HR21. Is that the price?

there's a brand new unit from a solid seller at ebay, ed. 178.00 plus 20.00 for shipping.

we can't even send links via pm, wtf?

anyway, just go to ebay and punch in directv hr21, ed.

Does anyone know how to make the green status bar disapear immediately when pausing or rewinding or resuming on the HR-20? I have been bothered by this for sometime-I know you can hit the exit button, but half the time it exits the whole show.

I wonder who decides all these little graphics in the way of the picture are so cool- I know they wanted to make it look like a Tivo, but this thing has to be phased out, or at least considerably reduced in size.

Even if you buy from eBay, to activate it, you have to commit to a 2-year contract.

Might as well get it from Direct TV, try to get some programming credits.

Or have they stopped giving those out, even to people who are out of contract?

Questions: The D*TV rep tells me that the AM21 works only with the HR21 DVR. Will not work with a H21. Is that correct?

I just paid them $229 for a MPEG4 HR20 or HR21. Is that the price?

Yes, works with HR21 not H21. The price is whatever you negotiate it to be, it's different for everyone.

Read somewhere that new software is coming this year that will let the AM21 work with the H21. True??

One of the nice things about Fios is that they have a DVR that can be accessed from up to 4 rooms. Is there any indication that D* will have a DVR like this sometime in the near future. It is not very practical to install multiple DVR's and have to go from room to room programming them. Most people want them to record the same program to be viewed in multiple rooms.

Has anyone have had crap service since they rolled out the HDTV packages this year? I know this question might be redundant but anytime it sprinkles we fricking loose signal. Guys have been out here several times and crap still goes down, it will be interesting on what cable will be able to do with bandwidth when they loose there analog signals next year and have more room for HD channels... Right now I think the Seattle rain belt moved for the winter/summer and it is sitting over WI..... LOL This spring so far.... rain, rain and more rain... Next weeks forecast more "F"in rain..... Soon I will be able to canoe to work.... ;)

Read somewhere that new software is coming this year that will let the AM21 work with the H21. True??

One of the nice things about Fios is that they have a DVR that can be accessed from up to 4 rooms. Is there any indication that D* will have a DVR like this sometime in the near future. It is not very practical to install multiple DVR's and have to go from room to room programming them. Most people want them to record the same program to be viewed in multiple rooms.
There has been speculation that there may be a software mod in the future that will allow the AM21 to work with the H21 but I think it is only speculation.
You can already use the DirecTV DVR to connect to multiple TVs in different rooms as long as they are all going to watch the same program. All the outputs from the DVR are active at the same time so you can connect up to two HDTVs and as many SD TVs as you want (using an add-on modulator). And using RF you can control the DVR from anywhere (using multiple remotes if you want).

I don't have the problems you speak of. The only time I lose the signal is during thunderstorms when the clouds are thick. I assume they've checked the aiming of the signal and the cable is all RG6?

There has been speculation that there may be a software mod in the future that will allow the AM21 to work with the H21 but I think it is only speculation.
You can already use the DirecTV DVR to connect to multiple TVs in different rooms as long as they are all going to watch the same program. All the outputs from the DVR are active at the same time so you can connect up to two HDTVs and as many SD TVs as you want (using an add-on modulator). And using RF you can control the DVR from anywhere (using multiple remotes if you want).

A DirecTV technical fellow told me the software mod was coming, sometime before the end of the year.

Has anyone have had crap service since they rolled out the HDTV packages this year? I know this question might be redundant but anytime it sprinkles we fricking loose signal. Guys have been out here several times and crap still goes down, it will be interesting on what cable will be able to do with bandwidth when they loose there analog signals next year and have more room for HD channels... Right now I think the Seattle rain belt moved for the winter/summer and it is sitting over WI..... LOL This spring so far.... rain, rain and more rain... Next weeks forecast more "F"in rain..... Soon I will be able to canoe to work.... ;)

I have not been experiencing a problem with rain fade that I am aware of.

Greg

Here's one for the Experts:

How do you access an HR21 DVR recordings from another room equipped with a H20?? Both have a RG6 from a terrestrial antenna that could be used to connect something.

I am aware of the CAT5/6 modems but I prefer not to have to run additional cable thru the attic and have to do special switching at the H20 location.

To make it easy to control at the H20 location, I would prefer to have the HR21 recordings be accessed as a station channel. This way there would be no special switching required by my users who are not technical.

The only solution I can come up with is to obtain a digital high def. modulator fed into the common terrestrial RG6 line. Does anyone make a reasonable cost hi def modulator? Control of the HR21 DVR would easily be done with a RF remote so that is not a problem.

Thanks.

Here's one for the Experts:

How do you access an HR21 DVR recordings from another room equipped with a H20?? Both have a RG6 from a terrestrial antenna that could be used to connect something.

I am aware of the CAT5/6 modems but I prefer not to have to run additional cable thru the attic and have to do special switching at the H20 location.

To make it easy to control at the H20 location, I would prefer to have the HR21 recordings be accessed as a station channel. This way there would be no special switching required by my users who are not technical.

The only solution I can come up with is to obtain a digital high def. modulator fed into the common terrestrial RG6 line. Does anyone make a reasonable cost hi def modulator? Control of the HR21 DVR would easily be done with a RF remote so that is not a problem.

Thanks.

There is no cost-effective way of doing this - yet. MRV (multi-room viewing) is a feature that everyone is expecting to become available on the DVRs at some time but there is no official schedule. The HD modulator approach is technically feasible but extremely expensive, because there is no "consumer" equipment capable of producing an ATSC signal. Right now your only real option (as you have mentioned) is to run cable between the two areas so that the HR20 can drive a second input into the TV at the HR21 location.

Thanks Texasbit. I guess the ATSC signal is just too complicated for a low cost modulator. And NTSC modulators are so cheap. But the H20 can't handle analog signals.

I guess I will have to use a old NTSC modulator from Radio Shack and pipe it into the NTSC input on the Sony flat screen TV. My non tech users will just have to learn to switch back and forth. That is until Directv catches up with FIOS which has a multi-room DVR.

Had 5LNB installed after D* installers on five different days took one look at my difficult cable runs....left saying they would be back first thing in the morning, the following day....never showed up. After literally hours on the phone to the Washington, DC D* installation company, the sixth installer was a winner. Did the the job in 7 hours. And did an excellent job.....all receivers working perfectly except the DVR. See post below.

Questions: Have 5LNB, MPEG4 installed.

On my new HR21 with AM21, changing channels is a mess. It takes 3 to 4 seconds with blinking and blank screens, particularly slow going from the satellite channels to the locals. Tried everything I could think of like turning Native on and off. Nothing helped until I removed the AM21.....then changing channels took only a second or two without the blinking etc. Is this problem with the AM21 typical?


5LNB
HR21
AM21
plus several old receivers.

2nd Question:

I have an old HBH-SA receiver I use to drive a string of old TV's.
I would like to control them with a D* RC64RB Remote using just the IR. Tried the Codes in the instruction book....none work? Tested the Remote and it is OK on other receivers,,,,,tested the old HBH-SA with other brands of Remotes and it is OK. What do I do now?

Questions: Have 5LNB, MPEG4 installed.

On my new HR21 with AM21, changing channels is a mess. It takes 3 to 4 seconds with blinking and blank screens, particularly slow going from the satellite channels to the locals. Tried everything I could think of like turning Native on and off. Nothing helped until I removed the AM21.....then changing channels took only a second or two without the blinking etc. Is this problem with the AM21 typical?


5LNB
HR21
AM21
plus several old receivers.

2nd Question:

I have an old HBH-SA receiver I use to drive a string of old TV's.
I would like to control them with a D* RC64RB Remote using just the IR. Tried the Codes in the instruction book....none work? Tested the Remote and it is OK on other receivers,,,,,tested the old HBH-SA with other brands of Remotes and it is OK. What do I do now?

A few people have reported similar problems with their HR21/AM21 combination, so you are not alone. Mine is OK (I have an HR21-200/AM21). I expect DirecTV is trying to track this one down and fix it; I've not seen anyone who is running the latest test release of the software post about the problem.

Comcast was offering a free HDTV (19" LCD) for new customers signing up for their Triple Play.

So I called D* and said 'cancel account'....which took me directly to customer retention. I told the rep that I was probably going to cancel my D* service because of the great offer from Comcast, but I wanted to give D* a chance to make a competitive counter-offer.

The rep thanked me because "too many customers just cancel without giving us a chance to make a counter-offer".

In a very pleasant conversation, this is the deal I was able to get:
- Free HD-DVR (probably an HR21)
- Free 5LNB dish
- Free 6x8 multi-switch
- Free installation
- 1 non-DVR HD MPEG4 receiver to replace a Samsung T160 MPEG2 HD box)
- 1 SD MPEG4 receiver to replace a Hughes SD box)
- Free HD package for 1 year ($10 monthly credit for 12 months)
- Free HBO/CINEMAX/STARZ/SHOWTIME for 3 months

Assuming I get an HR21, I might call back asking for a heavily discounted (i.e., free) AM21 since I won't have an antenna input and I don't believe my Local HD channels includes PBS.

Installation set for tomorrow afternoon.

Overall, I'm pretty happy. Nothing out of pocket - for the hardware and with the various programming credits, I'll be saving a total of about $180 for the next year. 2 year commitment won't be an issue, since I prefer to stay with D* now anyway.

Assuming I get an HR21, I might call back asking for a heavily discounted (i.e., free) AM21
You did great, but if you already accepted the deal, it might be too late to get a free AM21. If D* has you on the hook, why give away anything else?

You did great, but if you already accepted the deal, it might be too late to get a free AM21. If D* has you on the hook, why give away anything else?

Good point....but I was told that I would be getting "either an HR20 or HR21"....and I told the rep that I used an antenna for local channels. "Don't worry your area includes ALL HD locals". So if PBS is missing, I might have some leverage.

I thought, because of info from this thread, that they were not sending out HR20's anymore. I thought that everyone was now getting the HR21s. Which is now true?

Also, I currently have an HR20 and D* is replacing my old HR10-250. IF they send me another HR20, am I going to have remote problem using a universal Logitech remote? Can I program two HR20s to work seperately?

I am hoping they send me a HR21 to solve this problem.

I thought, because of info from this thread, that they were not sending out HR20's anymore. I thought that everyone was now getting the HR21s. Which is now true?

Also, I currently have an HR20 and D* is replacing my old HR10-250. IF they send me another HR20, am I going to have remote problem using a universal Logitech remote? Can I program two HR20s to work seperately?

I am hoping they send me a HR21 to solve this problem.


your gonna have them both in the same room, vonzoog?

Yes. That is why I am concerned.

Yes. That is why I am concerned.


it looks like your in the clear, vonzoog. check out this link.....
http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=79330

it looks like your in the clear, vonzoog. check out this link.....
http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=79330
That link says how to do it with an DirecTV remote, not a universal remote from elsewhere. The DirecTV remote knows how to distinguish several HR20s by their serial numbers, but how to teach a Logitech remote that trick?
Edit: Actually, as I read further in the referenced thread, it does talk about teaching a Logitech remote how to do this.

Thanks Joe for the information.

I'm feeling better now. Still would rather have the HR21.

Thanks Joe for the information.

I'm feeling better now. Still would rather have the HR21.


no problem. just curious, why would you rather have the HR21?

it seems like everybody's trying to find an HR20, vonzoog.

I have had a HR20 since they first came out. After the initial bugs were weeded out it has been a fine unit. I was under the impression that the HR20 and the HR21 were basically the same. I just wanted the HR21 to avoid the remote IR conflicts.

Am I missing something?

I have had a HR20 since they first came out. After the initial bugs were weeded out it has been a fine unit. I was under the impression that the HR20 and the HR21 were basically the same. I just wanted the HR21 to avoid the remote IR conflicts.

Am I missing something?

HR21s are black, HR20s are slilver. HR20s have built in OTA tuners, HR21s do not and require AM21s if you want OTA functionality.

I have had a HR20 since they first came out. After the initial bugs were weeded out it has been a fine unit. I was under the impression that the HR20 and the HR21 were basically the same. I just wanted the HR21 to avoid the remote IR conflicts.

Am I missing something?

The HR20 and HR21 both use the same IR codes.

What exactly happens when you plug a 95 degree International satellite dish into a DB68 Zinwell. Have HR20 and H21 receivers. Do the unscrambled International channels show up on the D* receivers? or do you still need the FTA receiver. Only interested in the free International channels.

What exactly happens when you plug a 95 degree International satellite dish into a DB68 Zinwell. Have HR20 and H21 receivers. Do the unscrambled International channels show up on the D* receivers? or do you still need the FTA receiver. Only interested in the free International channels.


Nothing shows up on the DirecTV receiver except DirecTV channels. They do not have any FTA capability. In any case, I don't think there are any FTA channels on the 95 sat, it is owned by DirecTV.

1) I just was on the phone with Cust Svc to swap out my HR10-250 to the new MPEG-4 HD DVR. After reading some of threads from this and other forums, I expected to get the HR21 and request the AM21 to allow OTA recordings, but the rep said that I would be getting the HR20. Is that likely or is more likely the rep's info is wrong? I also requested to get the AM21 as well just in case.

2) I currently have 3 HR10-250 with diplexors running to each for "dual" recording capability. I thought i remembered that diplexors do not work for the MPEG-4 setup. Is that true? So will the slimline dish be ok running to 4 TVs (so would I need 2 cables going to each HR20 or HR21 reciever from the 5 lnb - or 8 total)? Also, would I need another cable coming from the antenna to the HR20 or the HR21 (with AM21)?

1) I just was on the phone with Cust Svc to swap out my HR10-250 to the new MPEG-4 HD DVR. After reading some of threads from this and other forums, I expected to get the HR21 and request the AM21 to allow OTA recordings, but the rep said that I would be getting the HR20. Is that likely or is more likely the rep's info is wrong? I also requested to get the AM21 as well just in case.

2) I currently have 3 HR10-250 with diplexors running to each for "dual" recording capability. I thought i remembered that diplexors do not work for the MPEG-4 setup. Is that true? So will the slimline dish be ok running to 4 TVs (so would I need 2 cables going to each HR20 or HR21 reciever from the 5 lnb - or 8 total)? Also, would I need another cable coming from the antenna to the HR20 or the HR21 (with AM21)?

You will need 2 cables for each, they will install a multiswitch. The cable from the antenna to receive OTA will be your responsibility.

1) I just was on the phone with Cust Svc to swap out my HR10-250 to the new MPEG-4 HD DVR. After reading some of threads from this and other forums, I expected to get the HR21 and request the AM21 to allow OTA recordings, but the rep said that I would be getting the HR20. Is that likely or is more likely the rep's info is wrong? I also requested to get the AM21 as well just in case.

2) I currently have 3 HR10-250 with diplexors running to each for "dual" recording capability. I thought i remembered that diplexors do not work for the MPEG-4 setup. Is that true? So will the slimline dish be ok running to 4 TVs (so would I need 2 cables going to each HR20 or HR21 reciever from the 5 lnb - or 8 total)? Also, would I need another cable coming from the antenna to the HR20 or the HR21 (with AM21)?

With 3 DVRs, you might get lucky and receive a SWM8 multiswitch. That has an OTA antenna port for diplexing. These aren't available in all markets yet and will be eventually be replaced by a Slimline with a built-in SWM (but no diplexing input, although an external diplexor can be used on the output). With the SWM, only a single cable per DVR is required and up to 8 tuners are supported.

With 3 DVRs, you might get lucky and receive a SWM8 multiswitch. That has an OTA antenna port for diplexing. These aren't available in all markets yet and will be eventually be replaced by a Slimline with a built-in SWM (but no diplexing input, although an external diplexor can be used on the output). With the SWM, only a single cable per DVR is required and up to 8 tuners are supported.
Thanks for the heads up. That is the info I was looking for. Problem is I cannot tell what the installer will bring. I've tried to get it out of the cust svc rep, but the details she knew wasn't much.

1) I just was on the phone with Cust Svc to swap out my HR10-250 to the new MPEG-4 HD DVR. After reading some of threads from this and other forums, I expected to get the HR21 and request the AM21 to allow OTA recordings, but the rep said that I would be getting the HR20. Is that likely or is more likely the rep's info is wrong? I also requested to get the AM21 as well just in case.

2) I currently have 3 HR10-250 with diplexors running to each for "dual" recording capability. I thought i remembered that diplexors do not work for the MPEG-4 setup. Is that true? So will the slimline dish be ok running to 4 TVs (so would I need 2 cables going to each HR20 or HR21 reciever from the 5 lnb - or 8 total)? Also, would I need another cable coming from the antenna to the HR20 or the HR21 (with AM21)?

You will almost certainly get an HR21, in general a CSR can't specify which box you will get. The Hr20 is not being manufactured anymore.

You are correct about diplexers not working with the new satellite signals from DirecTV10. This is because the signals occupy the same band as OTA signals.
I will be extremely surprised (shocked even) if you get an SWM8, because the installers do not carry them, the supplies are currently only going to installers of MDU (multidwelling unit) systems, although you can buy one yourself ($200+). You don't say where you live; this could be important because in certain areas the installers are now using the new SWMline dish, for people with five tuners or more, and you would probably qualify. What city are you in?
If you don't get an SWMline, the installer will install a Slimline dish and a Zinwell WB68 multiswitch (other older multiswitches will NOT work for the new satellites). The recommendation is that you run additional cables for OTA although there is a workaround for OTA with the new satellites and the WB68 involving moving the BBCs (b-band converters) from the HD recivers to just after the multiswitch. Of course you might just want to replace the WB68 with an SWM8 after the installer has finished, it's a much tidier solution. You can then use diplexing if you want to (although technically speaking diplexing is not "supported" by DirecTV, they don't want their service people getting into that), or just use for OTA the extra cable to the DVRs that will be "freed up" by using the SWM8.

Hi All,
I searched the forum for mention of these receivers got no hits. DBSTalk.com has some mention, but my account isn't activated yet, so I thought I'd try here. :)

I just received upgrades/swaps of old MPEG2 receivers (one an SD Hughes and the other an HD Samsung TS160) to the H23-600 receivers. Was expecting the H21's, but these showed up instead. The installer didn't know about any differences between the H21 and H23 models.

One of these boxes will sit in an un-used bedroom/storeroom, but will have an output run to an RF modulator to drive an SD tv in the kitchen. So an RF remote is essential -- the Hughes receiver it replaced (and is now deactivated) had a very good RF remote.

Went through the whole RF remote setup process, but the remote isn't recognized in RF mode. Saw a posting on DBSTalk.com saying that the receiver is RF capable, but the supplied remote is only an IR remote. That's a bummer, but not a big problem since I have 3 HR21's in the house that have RF remotes.

So I tried one of the HR21's remotes and it seems to work only partially or not at all (accepting keystrokes from the remote seems random).

Anybody else get an H23-600 recently and figure out how (or if) the supplied remote or an HR21's remote can be setup in RF mode??

TIA,
STeveK2

Anybody else get an H23-600 recently and figure out how (or if) the supplied remote or an HR21's remote can be setup in RF mode??

TIA,
STeveK2

I would assume it's buried in the setup, just as it is with the HR series boxes. My HR20 is Menu->Setup->System Setup->Remote.

I would assume it's buried in the setup, just as it is with the HR series boxes. My HR20 is Menu->Setup->System Setup->Remote.

Yah....found that....my post said that I went through the whole RF setup process. RF still doesn't work....I tried to setup an HR21's remote for RF.....looks like it responds to 1 in 12 or 13 presses on the remote.

Not exactly useful that way.:(

Well the remote that comes with the H23-600 is NOT an RF model. It is model #RC64. The HR21-100's come with model RC64R. Looks like the first RC64R I tried from one of the HR21-100's has its own problems with RF mode. I tried a remote from a different HR21-100 and it IS able to control the H23-600 in RF mode. Now the question is range. My TV & watching area is approximately 35 feet from the receiver. First test didn't work at that range. Will have to raise the receiver to the top of the entertainment center and do more tests tomorrow.

You will almost certainly get an HR21, in general a CSR can't specify which box you will get. The Hr20 is not being manufactured anymore.

You are correct about diplexers not working with the new satellite signals from DirecTV10. This is because the signals occupy the same band as OTA signals.
I will be extremely surprised (shocked even) if you get an SWM8, because the installers do not carry them, the supplies are currently only going to installers of MDU (multidwelling unit) systems, although you can buy one yourself ($200+). You don't say where you live; this could be important because in certain areas the installers are now using the new SWMline dish, for people with five tuners or more, and you would probably qualify. What city are you in?
If you don't get an SWMline, the installer will install a Slimline dish and a Zinwell WB68 multiswitch (other older multiswitches will NOT work for the new satellites). The recommendation is that you run additional cables for OTA although there is a workaround for OTA with the new satellites and the WB68 involving moving the BBCs (b-band converters) from the HD recivers to just after the multiswitch. Of course you might just want to replace the WB68 with an SWM8 after the installer has finished, it's a much tidier solution. You can then use diplexing if you want to (although technically speaking diplexing is not "supported" by DirecTV, they don't want their service people getting into that), or just use for OTA the extra cable to the DVRs that will be "freed up" by using the SWM8.
Thanks for the reply. I’m actually in Frisco, TX and what concerns me is not knowing what the installer will bring. :)

My set up will be 4 TVs with new HD DVR (either HR21 or HR20). So the SWMline is the current Slimline dish, right? It should allow me to run 4 single cables from the dish (or PI connection) trough a 4 way splitter out to the 4 HDDVR’s.

Then I just keep my current setup for the OTA connection which I already have run to each TV. I really only need one OTA cable connected to a HDDVR – so I probably need an AM21 for this (given the fact that I will most likely get HR21’s), correct? The other 3 OTA cables will be connected directly to the TV (I don’t care about recording from OTA on these TV’s – given the fact that I can record I believe all the local stations from the SAT).

Am I thinking this through correctly?

If I cannot get the SWMline dish, what are my choices? Based on your comments, I think it would be older slimline dish with a WB68 (which I think I currently have) and 2 cables would need to run to each HDDVR or the SWM8 which would allow me to run 1 cable to each HDDVR. Is that right?

Thanks for the reply. I’m actually in Frisco, TX and what concerns me is not knowing what the installer will bring. :)

My set up will be 4 TVs with new HD DVR (either HR21 or HR20). So the SWMline is the current Slimline dish, right? It should allow me to run 4 single cables from the dish (or PI connection) trough a 4 way splitter out to the 4 HDDVR’s.

Then I just keep my current setup for the OTA connection which I already have run to each TV. I really only need one OTA cable connected to a HDDVR – so I probably need an AM21 for this (given the fact that I will most likely get HR21’s), correct? The other 3 OTA cables will be connected directly to the TV (I don’t care about recording from OTA on these TV’s – given the fact that I can record I believe all the local stations from the SAT).

Am I thinking this through correctly?

If I cannot get the SWMline dish, what are my choices? Based on your comments, I think it would be older slimline dish with a WB68 (which I think I currently have) and 2 cables would need to run to each HDDVR or the SWM8 which would allow me to run 1 cable to each HDDVR. Is that right?

Dallas is one of the areas where the SWMline dish is being used so with luck you will get one. You will need to call the installer beforehand to make sure you are getting this new dish. Push them hard on this, you really need this dish if you can get it.
If it is an SWMline, the installer will run one line from the dish to the house, and then put in a four-way splitter with one line run to each DVR. The PI can go next to one of your HR21s, between the HR21 and the splitter. For OTA, yes you will need an AM21 with each HR21 where you want to record OTA.
If you have the SWNline, getting OTA to the HR21/AM21s (or to the TV next to an HR21 that does not have an AM21) should be easy. Insert a diplexer (it MUST be power-passing) in the cable from the dish to the splitter (just before the splitter, inside the house would be ideal). Connect your OTA antenna to the off-air input of the diplexer, and the cable from the dish to the other. Then use diplexers at each TV/AM21 to split out the OTA signals.
NOTE: diplexing works fine with the SWM but is not officially supported by DirecTV, they do not want their techs involved in all the issues OTA can have.
If they don't install an SWMline (or they may just call it an SWM LNB), then you will get the Slimline dish. Four cables from the dish to the WB68 multiswitch, and then two cables to each DVR. Then you will need to run a separate cable for OTA to each location where you need it.
One point though. If you get the SWMline then it will support eight tuners - period. You will have eight tuners (four DVRs). This means there will be NO expansion capability, and there is no way of adding on to get more than eight. If you want to add on you will need to replace the dish. Using the Slimline gives you the possibility of going to 16 tuners or more, and also supporting older receivers - you can run multiple SWM8 switches in parallel if you want to. But of course you will probably have to buy the SWM8s yourself.

I am just east of Allen TX so if you have any other questions send me a PM with your phone number and I will try to help.

Dallas is one of the areas where the SWMline dish is being used so with luck you will get one. You will need to call the installer beforehand to make sure you are getting this new dish. Push them hard on this, you really need this dish if you can get it.
If it is an SWMline, the installer will run one line from the dish to the house, and then put in a four-way splitter with one line run to each DVR. The PI can go next to one of your HR21s, between the HR21 and the splitter. For OTA, yes you will need an AM21 with each HR21 where you want to record OTA.
If you have the SWNline, getting OTA to the HR21/AM21s (or to the TV next to an HR21 that does not have an AM21) should be easy. Insert a diplexer (it MUST be power-passing) in the cable from the dish to the splitter (just before the splitter, inside the house would be ideal). Connect your OTA antenna to the off-air input of the diplexer, and the cable from the dish to the other. Then use diplexers at each TV/AM21 to split out the OTA signals.
NOTE: diplexing works fine with the SWM but is not officially supported by DirecTV, they do not want their techs involved in all the issues OTA can have.
If they don't install an SWMline (or they may just call it an SWM LNB), then you will get the Slimline dish. Four cables from the dish to the WB68 multiswitch, and then two cables to each DVR. Then you will need to run a separate cable for OTA to each location where you need it.
One point though. If you get the SWMline then it will support eight tuners - period. You will have eight tuners (four DVRs). This means there will be NO expansion capability, and there is no way of adding on to get more than eight. If you want to add on you will need to replace the dish. Using the Slimline gives you the possibility of going to 16 tuners or more, and also supporting older receivers - you can run multiple SWM8 switches in parallel if you want to. But of course you will probably have to buy the SWM8s yourself.

I am just east of Allen TX so if you have any other questions send me a PM with your phone number and I will try to help.
Great, thanks for the input and I will drop you a PM when I find out what the intaller will be bringing.

Does DTV charge for the AM21? They are sending me the HR21 and I also need OTA..

They are not charging me, but it probably depends on the situation. They want to replace my HR10-250 - so I requested the same functionality with OTA and they said ok.

Does DTV charge for the AM21? They are sending me the HR21 and I also need OTA..

They are not charging me, but it probably depends on the situation. They want to replace my HR10-250 - so I requested the same functionality with OTA and they said ok.

CSRs will tell you anything to get you to stay. Unless you got them to say they're sending an AM21 for free, you're gonna pay.

Yes, they said they were sending the AM21 for free (actually 3) to go with HR21 for free to replace my three HR10-250s.
Again, I think it depends and I wasn't threatening to leave. They've been contacting me to do the change - one reason is because NFL Ticket will not be available for on the MPEG-2 channels.

CSRs will tell you anything to get you to stay. Unless you got them to say they're sending an AM21 for free, you're gonna pay.

Well I just called DirecTV to upgrade because I just got my new Samsung 50PNA650 plasma (which I’m really pleased with) and can finally move up to HD. I’ve been a DirecTV customer for about 8 years I’m guessing, but hadn’t really changed my service much since I first signed up. Thanks to the recent posts from SteveK2 and the rest of you on this thread, I had some good information to use when negotiating.

I called DirecTV and told them I was strongly considering going to Dish because the offer they had was really enticing. Personally I much prefer the channel lineup on DirecTV, so I was mainly using the Dish offer as leverage. The very pleasant CS rep initially offered me an HR21 receiver for $100 and nothing more. So I started listing some of the enticements in the Dish offer and he immediately came back with a much better offer.

Here’s what I ended up getting:
· a free HR21 receiver
· free HD programming for a year (worth $120)
· free 5 LNB dish and whatever switches & cabling I need
· free installation/S&H
· 6 months free of Starz (or could have gotten 3 months of HBO for free).
· I also asked for and got a free AM21. The rep couldn’t get the AM21 to show up on his screen as an option. He checked with a supervisor and discovered that it’s because my account doesn’t reflect the HD receiver yet. So when I get the installation done and the HD receiver is active, I can call them and get that sent out for free (he made a note about that). He said all I need to do is place it on top of the receiver and plug it in.

I didn’t ask to replace my older existing SD receivers because they work fine and I’ll likely consolidate down to just one SD receiver and split the signal to two sets to save some bucks. It’s just my wife and I and we rarely will use the other sets.

It’s a 2-year commitment, but I’ve been very satisfied with DirecTV and would never go back to cable. Plus FiOS is not, and will not ever, be available to my area in LA. Overall, I think the package is on par with the offer they advertise for new customers, and I am satisfied with that. Thanks again for all your help. – Barry

Need help with something. I recently recieved a new H21 from D*. I tried to install it last night, but I am having trouble getting the new MPEG 4 HD channels. I had an H21 in the same spot as I now have the H21 and everything worked fine. I have since moved the H20 upstairs and am still having no problems (aka I believe the dish and cabeling are okay). Anyway, I am getting a 771 error on all the new HD channels. One thing I noticed is I am not getting any signal on the H21 from the 103 s and c satellites (I do get a signal from the H20). Long story short, has anyone seen this or have any ideas???

Thanks!

Joe.

Need help with something. I recently recieved a new H21 from D*. I tried to install it last night, but I am having trouble getting the new MPEG 4 HD channels. I had an H21 in the same spot as I now have the H21 and everything worked fine. I have since moved the H20 upstairs and am still having no problems (aka I believe the dish and cabeling are okay). Anyway, I am getting a 771 error on all the new HD channels. One thing I noticed is I am not getting any signal on the H21 from the 103 s and c satellites (I do get a signal from the H20). Long story short, has anyone seen this or have any ideas???

Thanks!

Joe.

Do you have the BBC connected? If so, swap the BBC with the one on the H20 and see if it works OK.

Okay...good thought...I tried switching the B-band converters but still not working.

Hi All,
I got the call a few days ago from DirecTV offering the free upgrade of my HD-TiVo to the MPEG4 receiver.

The installer showed up today, his work-order didn't say that he had to upgrade my dish (I had a 3 LMB dish). He called his supervisor who told me that they could install a new dish, but that DirecTV might charge me $99. I called DirecTV's customer retention line and got an agent who re-did the work order to add the dish at no charge.

The installation took about 90 minutes, everything is working fine and no changes were required on my other SD TiVo receiver. Now it's time to call them and see if they will send me an AM21.

Directv sent me an e-mail saying that I would need to change my equipment to keep getting HDTV. I have an HR10-250 which I love and didn't want to get rid of it or I would have upgraded a long time ago. I have an HR20-100S which I haven't installed yet. I bought it a while back because I understood the new Directv HDDVR's didn't have OTA capability and I get all my local HDTV OTA. I would like to keep receiving my locals OTA since Directv doesn't have all the locals available in my area (only some of them).

I have not been reading the forums for awhile so my question is what is the AM21?

Larry Raulston

I have not been reading the forums for awhile so my question is what is the AM21?
The successor to the HR20, the HR21, does not have an OTA tuner, so DirecTV introduced an add-on, the AM21, for the HR21 which adds an OTA tuner. So, HR21+AM21 = HR20. Except some say the AM21 tuner is better than the one in the HR20. The AM21 is about $50, but sometimes DirecTV will give you one at no extra cost -- it's a negotiation. (I'm just repeating what I've heard -- don't have an AM21 myself.)

One for the experts-
I have DirekTV for the NFL Sunday Ticket ONLY, recurring every year on my account. (for 6-7 years I guess). I have a 3 LNB dish and an DST3000 HD receiver, hooked up via component to a 110" screen.
I'm only interested in NFL-HD games, which is my passion and why I built this room....so when I activate the account, will the HD games showup Week #1 ?

Not having regular programming from DirekTV throughout the year, I'm thinking makes me ineligible for any freebie....meaning I'm going to have to pay for a 5LNB dish and new HD reciever, installation.:(

Does anyone know, or suggest what I should do, what to say to CSRs, etc ?

Thanks so much.

One for the experts-
I have DirekTV for the NFL Sunday Ticket ONLY, recurring every year on my account. (for 6-7 years I guess). I have a 3 LNB dish and an DST3000 HD receiver, hooked up via component to a 110" screen.
I'm only interested in NFL-HD games, which is my passion and why I built this room....so when I activate the account, will the HD games showup Week #1 ?

Not having regular programming from DirekTV throughout the year, I'm thinking makes me ineligible for any freebie....meaning I'm going to have to pay for a 5LNB dish and new HD reciever, installation.:(

Does anyone know, or suggest what I should do, what to say to CSRs, etc ?

Thanks so much.

You situation is rather unique. So you call D* every season, activate and then have them turn things off after the regular season ends?

With your current dish and receiver you will not be able to watch the HD games. You need a 5 LNB dish and a HR-20 or 21 receiver.

You will just have to talk to a CSR and see what they offer. If not satisfied with the first response you might want to try with a second rep.

My guess is that they will offer a free upgrade if you are willing to go with a two year commitment.

You might also want to ask about all of this over at DBS Talk. Lots of D* experts over there.

Good luck.

Joe

Got a question for all of you which I havent found an answer on DBS yet.

Do you notice with HR20 or HR21 DVR's that certain HD channels do not fill up the top part of the screen. I have a samsung plasma and Sharp LCD, operating in just scan and dot by dot and there is 1/4 to 1/2 inch on the top of space not filled in.

Noticed this on discovery HD and several other channels (not stretch o vision stuff) but then channels like weather channel, food network etc fill it in completely. If it werent for different brand tvs I would point the finger away from the box but both the HR20 and HR21 do this, albeit the HR21 is not as bad.

Any ideas??????????????????????????????

You situation is rather unique. So you call D* every season, activate and then have them turn things off after the regular season ends?

With your current dish and receiver you will not be able to watch the HD games. You need a 5 LNB dish and a HR-20 or 21 receiver.

You will just have to talk to a CSR and see what they offer. If not satisfied with the first response you might want to try with a second rep.

My guess is that they will offer a free upgrade if you are willing to go with a two year commitment.

You might also want to ask about all of this over at DBS Talk. Lots of D* experts over there.

Good luck.

JoeThanks for the reply.
I guess I need to make a move (sh-t or get off the pot). One thing is for certain, the Sunday Ticket's gonna cost this year !

Yes,
My account is in "Suspension mode" all year....I turn it on in Sept, and turn it off after week 17, usually in Jan. If I don't turn it off, the taxes, box fees, etc. stay on the account and keep adding up every month.

I can't do any commitments wth DirekTV regular programming....I'm already paying high flying Comcast bills for HD, Phone, Internet, and Howard on Demand.
Bottom Line, I'm a Philly Sports nut, and I HAVE to have ComcastSportsnet, this is a stranglehold Comcast has on Philly, DC, Baltimore and other metro areas where DirekTV doesn't have this channel....weird thing is Verizon FIOS has it, and it looks better !
Any other suggestions ?

It finally got to me... DTV is telling me I gotta upgrade the old equipment (3-LNB & a DirecTiVo) to their new stuff (5-LNB & their DVR).

The current 3-LNB I have is configured to have two lines running to the HDTiVo, and one to the back room w/ a plain receiver.

When they put in the 5-LNB dish, will I still be able to run two lines to the new DVR and one to my back room, or will I have to install splitters/diplexers, or even run new cables?

I just wanna know if this is gonna be a hassle from the cabling perspective.:confused:

When they put in the 5-LNB dish, will I still be able to run two lines to the new DVR and one to my back room, or will I have to install splitters/diplexers, or even run new cables?

I just wanna know if this is gonna be a hassle from the cabling perspective.:confused:

They will probably reuse the same cables, assuming they are in decent condition. I HAD hoped when I got a 3LNB replaced with a 5LNB and relocated they'd run new cables, but the installer just cut the cables from the old dish and ran them as close as he could to the new dish, then ran 4 more cables to complete the run. I haven't had problems in nearly 2 years with the cables, so I can't complain too much.

They will probably reuse the same cables, assuming they are in decent condition. I HAD hoped when I got a 3LNB replaced with a 5LNB and relocated they'd run new cables, but the installer just cut the cables from the old dish and ran them as close as he could to the new dish, then ran 4 more cables to complete the run. I haven't had problems in nearly 2 years with the cables, so I can't complain too much.
So the 5-LNB has 4 outputs? I only need 3... do these outputs all act independently? That is, if I only need 3, I don't need to use all 4, correct?

So the 5-LNB has 4 outputs? I only need 3... do these outputs all act independently? That is, if I only need 3, I don't need to use all 4, correct?

Yes, Yes, Yes.

Thanks for the reply.
I guess I need to make a move (sh-t or get off the pot). One thing is for certain, the Sunday Ticket's gonna cost this year !

Yes,
My account is in "Suspension mode" all year....I turn it on in Sept, and turn it off after week 17, usually in Jan. If I don't turn it off, the taxes, box fees, etc. stay on the account and keep adding up every month.

I can't do any commitments wth DirekTV regular programming....I'm already paying high flying Comcast bills for HD, Phone, Internet, and Howard on Demand.
Bottom Line, I'm a Philly Sports nut, and I HAVE to have ComcastSportsnet, this is a stranglehold Comcast has on Philly, DC, Baltimore and other metro areas where DirekTV doesn't have this channel....weird thing is Verizon FIOS has it, and it looks better !
Any other suggestions ?

I think that your worst case will be to pay full price $199 for an HD DVR or $99 for an HD receiver. They will probably install the dish for free. A lot depends on who answers your call and the mood they're in.

anyone care to offer some help


Got a question for all of you which I havent found an answer on DBS yet.

Do you notice with HR20 or HR21 DVR's that certain HD channels do not fill up the top part of the screen. I have a samsung plasma and Sharp LCD, operating in just scan and dot by dot and there is 1/4 to 1/2 inch on the top of space not filled in.

Noticed this on discovery HD and several other channels (not stretch o vision stuff) but then channels like weather channel, food network etc fill it in completely. If it werent for different brand tvs I would point the finger away from the box but both the HR20 and HR21 do this, albeit the HR21 is not as bad.

Any ideas??????????????????????????????

Got a question for all of you which I havent found an answer on DBS yet.

Do you notice with HR20 or HR21 DVR's that certain HD channels do not fill up the top part of the screen. I have a samsung plasma and Sharp LCD, operating in just scan and dot by dot and there is 1/4 to 1/2 inch on the top of space not filled in.

Noticed this on discovery HD and several other channels (not stretch o vision stuff) but then channels like weather channel, food network etc fill it in completely. If it werent for different brand tvs I would point the finger away from the box but both the HR20 and HR21 do this, albeit the HR21 is not as bad.I've only seen it on certain stretched/zoomed programming that was origianally 14:9, and certain other stretch/crop/zoom programs on Discovery HD and similar chs.

Obviously, everything is not originally produced in 16:9, and it's either broadcast in its original aspect ratio or stretched, cropped, zoomed & distorted by some networks to fill or partially fill the screen. I wish they would send everything OAR and let the viewer do the stretch-o-vision, IF that's what they want (I don't).

Got a question for all of you which I havent found an answer on DBS yet.

Do you notice with HR20 or HR21 DVR's that certain HD channels do not fill up the top part of the screen. I have a samsung plasma and Sharp LCD, operating in just scan and dot by dot and there is 1/4 to 1/2 inch on the top of space not filled in.

Noticed this on discovery HD and several other channels (not stretch o vision stuff) but then channels like weather channel, food network etc fill it in completely. If it werent for different brand tvs I would point the finger away from the box but both the HR20 and HR21 do this, albeit the HR21 is not as bad.

Any ideas??????????????????????????????

The overscan on the TV is not set correctly for the variability of the signal the channels are sending out. Dot-to-dot or pixel mode is designed for computer-generated video or DVDs. For broadcast or satellite TV, the recommended overscan is around 4-5% which is probably the next display mode setting.

anyone care to offer some help

I think your receivers are not the issue. They are sending to your displays what is being received. There is some variation in transmission parameters from channel to channel. To account for this in the CRT era, there was a built-in overscan. Many digital TVs in a dot by dot mode reveal the imperfections. Some digital TV provide a "Fill" alternative to eliminate the black bars/rough edges.

My guess is that the slight variation you attribute to the two receivers is in fact a difference in the way the two displays perform. Swap the two boxes and see if the variation follows the boxes or remains with the displays.

In any event the basic problem lies with the channel providers.

Dana

Yes, Yes, Yes.

Thanks, thanks, thanks! :)

I think that your worst case will be to pay full price $199 for an HD DVR or $99 for an HD receiver. They will probably install the dish for free. A lot depends on who answers your call and the mood they're in.

FWIW, in 2006 they upgraded me to HD for free in exchange for my agreeing to buy Sunday Ticket. Given they are upgrading existing HD customers for free right now, with no commitment to buy ST, I'm guessing that if you call retention and tell them you'll buy ST-HD if they upgrade you for free, they'll upgrade you for free.

I guess yesterday was my day, I usually need a supervisor when I "re-activate" my account every August, cause the CSRs are programmed to say, "you can't have the NFL Sunday Ticket without monthly programming"...and I ask for a Supervisor, and they say "but Sir, as I already stated you can't have the ST without...".:mad:

I very nicely explained to the first CSR about how I read about DirekTv's transition to MPEG4, (acting a bit ignorant) and that my dish and HD receiver will no longer work. He said this is all true, and I'll need a new HD receiver, and an new 5lnb dish. He explained my account needs to be active for him to see if I "qualify" for any upgrades.....so I said activate it (a month early but he confirmed NFL Network is included with ST).
He came back saying I qualify for a new dish AND HD receiver !

Then I said "what about the SuperFan $99, I think that's too expensive since I'm already paying for the HD Access.....he said, "I can waive the charges for the Superfan".

To say the least, I was VERY pleased with their upgrading me with the new equipment. I had DirekTV for 9 months back in 2002, then NFLST only starting iin 2004, so I wouldn't say they've made a ton of revenue off me...(Comcast on the other hand). I was fine with paying for the SF, (te HD Gamemix will be the sh-t, since I'm at 110") but I read that they were offering at no charge to some, so I figure I'd ask.

Thanks for your advice.

What's my best play here?

I believe that I just had my H20 receiver crap out on me. The picture quality went to crap (lots of horizontal banding, DVD looks fine, tried new cables). I am no longer under any long term obligation to DirecTV. DirecTV probably sees me as a pretty good customer ($100+ monthly bill, sports packages, PPVs). It seems like my options are:

1. Track down an H21 and continue without DVR.
pros: no new contract to sign, easy install (can do myself)
cons: no DVR, have to pay cash out of pocket (is there any way to convince DirecTV to give me a deal on a new unit without signing a 2 year contract?)

2. Go for the HR21
pros: DVR, no cash out of pocket
cons: 2 year contract, not possible to run another cable from my dish (are they using SWM in the Atlanta area)?

I also considered buying an HR21 3rd party, but with the issue of not being able to run another cable from the dish, I figure my only hope to get two tuner inputs is to go with the professional install with SWM. Is this right?

Any insight into the best way to proceed?

Not sure if this is the right forum - recently got Hd with DVR, but the volume on the recorded shows is uneven, especially HD content, from CNBC to HDNET concerts. I used to have regular TIVO but never had this issue.

Is this my HD-DVR? The model is HR21-100. Thanks.

Quick Question:

One of my tuners has 70's and a couple 80's on 99c. Sometimes transponder will drop to 69. The other tuner has 70's, but about 4 or 5 transponders that will vary from 40 to 60. That same tuner will be in the mid 90's on 101, so I don't think the tuner is damaged, but can a tuner be slightly out of alignment, or is it normal for them to be so different on the same satellite? On the the other satellites they are fairly close, but not on 99c. Also, do you think these signals will get better once they are done fiddling around with the new satellite?

Quick Question:

One of my tuners has 70's and a couple 80's on 99c. Sometimes transponder will drop to 69. The other tuner has 70's, but about 4 or 5 transponders that will vary from 40 to 60. That same tuner will be in the mid 90's on 101, so I don't think the tuner is damaged, but can a tuner be slightly out of alignment, or is it normal for them to be so different on the same satellite? On the the other satellites they are fairly close, but not on 99c. Also, do you think these signals will get better once they are done fiddling around with the new satellite?

That's not how it works. The tuner just shows what the signal is that is being received at the dish. All transponders on 99c on the same tuner should be approximately the same, the 101 signals are not relevant.
If you have an HR21, some people have reported that signals on tuner 2 are lower than tuner 1 and no-one is quite sure why. But even your tuner 1 signals are low, they should all be in the 80s or 90s if the dish is aligned correctly.
It would be a good idea if you have the protection plan to get your dish re-aligned, tell the CSR you have signals in the 40s and 50s on 99c. Then when the dish is re-aligned and tuner 1 is showing all 80s/90s see what tuner 2 shows as signal.

That's not how it works. The tuner just shows what the signal is that is being received at the dish. All transponders on 99c on the same tuner should be approximately the same, the 101 signals are not relevant.
If you have an HR21, some people have reported that signals on tuner 2 are lower than tuner 1 and no-one is quite sure why. But even your tuner 1 signals are low, they should all be in the 80s or 90s if the dish is aligned correctly.
It would be a good idea if you have the protection plan to get your dish re-aligned, tell the CSR you have signals in the 40s and 50s on 99c. Then when the dish is re-aligned and tuner 1 is showing all 80s/90s see what tuner 2 shows as signal.Thanks. Yeah, I had them out, but they told me they align by 101 and 119 so could not change 99c, and besides, nothing is on 99c:rolleyes:. I have sense learned differently and am going to call them back (Directv), but wanted to make sure I was correct in what to tell them. My tuner 2 is slightly lower on 101, and tuner 1 is the bad one on 99c. Rather strange.

Does the AM21 work with any other D* receivers besides the HR21? I just had a H20 replaced with an H23 that doesn't have OTA reception.:(

Does the AM21 work with any other D* receivers besides the HR21? I just had a H20 replaced with an H23 that doesn't have OTA reception.:(

The AM21 will only work with the HR21 HD DVR and also with the R22 SD DVR (although you do need an HD subsciption on your account to activate it with the R22). But we expect that some time later this year the H21/H23 will get a software update that will allow them to work with the AM21

EDIT: I need to add the HR22 to the list of AM21 compatible DVRs also.

I have an installation appointment scheduled for Saturday and was wondering if you could offer a satellite noob any tips for getting the best/least instrusive installation. I live on the top floor apartment in a brownstown building and own the roof deck above the unit. Apartment is wired for cable from TWC but I plan on keeping that service active at least for cable internet. I'm assuming that they will need to do some drilling and running of new wires and can't use the existing cable lines?

Need help with my D*

After the mpeg 4 conversion, I am now loosing my hd local every day around 4 to 6 pm every day on all the 5 receivers in the house. Service came out and replaced a few receivers and upgraded software on all of them. In addition the espn hd breaks up around the same time. The signal meters on the 119 and 103 are all 96to 98. (What the hell is going on). I have had D* for 5 years now and never had this problem. The next step for service is replacing lnb's and multiswitch. (will that help?)


Also service replaced my h20 for a h21 that has no local tuner. Is there anything available to add a local tuner to the h21?

Need help with my D*

After the mpeg 4 conversion, I am now loosing my hd local every day around 4 to 6 pm every day on all the 5 receivers in the house. Service came out and replaced a few receivers and upgraded software on all of them. In addition the espn hd breaks up around the same time. The signal meters on the 119 and 103 are all 96to 98. (What the hell is going on). I have had D* for 5 years now and never had this problem. The next step for service is replacing lnb's and multiswitch. (will that help?)


Also service replaced my h20 for a h21 that has no local tuner. Is there anything available to add a local tuner to the h21?

This may not be the LNB or the multiswitch. First, check all your signals on 99a/103b (if you have a receiver) or 99c/103c (if you have a DVR). They should all be in the 70s minimum, 80s or 90s preferably. Post back with a list when you've checked them.

There is no OTA tuner for the H21 as yet. The AM21 OTA tuner works with the HR21 DVR but not with the H21 receiver, but there are rumors that the H21 software will be modified to work with the AM21 sometime later this year.

This may not be the LNB or the multiswitch. First, check all your signals on 99a/103b (if you have a receiver) or 99c/103c (if you have a DVR). They should all be in the 70s minimum, 80s or 90s preferably. Post back with a list when you've checked them.

There is no OTA tuner for the H21 as yet. The AM21 OTA tuner works with the HR21 DVR but not with the H21 receiver, but there are rumors that the H21 software will be modified to work with the AM21 sometime later this year.

Thanks for the reply,

What do you mean by 70s or 80s??
Is that the signal strength??

Thanks for the reply,

What do you mean by 70s or 80s??
Is that the signal strength??

Yes, sorry, signal strength.

My signal strength is in the 96-98..
But, at around 5 to 6 pm every day it drops to 0.

Had a D* upgrade last week.

When I spoke to D* customer service I specifically requested a new multi-switch.

New receivers arrived with nothing but receivers and remotes in the boxes.

No B-band converters.

Installers arrived 4.5 hours late and still claimed that we were their first stop.

Installers insisted that HDMI was not appropriate for HDTV. They wanted to use RCA jacks.

They left without verifying that everything was working.

We called D* to ask why we are still not getting the mpeg 4 channels and they said that it was the lack of B-band converters.

Waited 3 days for the converters.

Still no mpeg 4 channels.

Checked everything. Found that installers used my old Eagle Aspen 4X8 switch.

Called D* to have installers come back and make everything right.

They insist that I don't need a new multiswitch and that I just need my dish re-positioned.

I asked for a different installation team. I was told that there is only one team in the area.

I guess that Chicago is too small of a market to have more than one, three-man crew.

Here we are 10 months later and I called and asked to replace my HR10-250 which quit working and my SD Directivo with a HD DVR and a HD receiver.

They sent me two HD DVR's.

One works.

No B-Band converters. Again.

Called to send the bad receiver back and to get new converters.

Went through the routine... Unplug the receiver, wait, plug in the receiver, wait, push the reset button, wait.

They question my wiring. I move a receiver from one room to this location, hook it up, everything works.

Got put on hold.

They hung up while "discussing it with their manager."

Will they ever get the b-band converter thing right?

Will they ever get the customer service thing right?

Why can't they just build the receivers so that they don't need the converters?

This is the second "reconditioned" unit that they have sent me that didn't work out of the box. Do they really recondition them or do they just assume that the last user was a moron and that there was nothing wrong with the unit?

Why can't they just build the receivers so that they don't need the converters?
Coming soon. I just lost my BBCs last week -- D* sent out a tech who installed a Single Wire Multiswitch, which makes the BBCs unnecessary. Works fine. The corresponding change will be incorporated into new LNBs, as I undertand it.

...

Will they ever get the b-band converter thing right?

Will they ever get the customer service thing right?

Why can't they just build the receivers so that they don't need the converters?

This is the second "reconditioned" unit that they have sent me that didn't work out of the box. Do they really recondition them or do they just assume that the last user was a moron and that there was nothing wrong with the unit?

Believe it or not, the latest receiver, H23 and the latest DVR, the HR22, have the BBC built in!

The last paragraph holds the answer to many of your questions. "Reconditioned" units by definition are older units without the latest and greatest improvements. I run away from those like the plague. When I received one free on a deal when I added a receiver, I called and asked that D* send a "recovery box" (a prepaid cushioned box that FEDEX will pick up) for the return of the reconditioned unit and said I would prefer to buy a new box at retail if they would reimburse me. That was OK with the CSR. I've done that twice now, getting the new units I wanted at BB and getting the D* to credit my account once the new box is activated.

I find the best approach is to offer the CSR a solution to a problem rather than depending on them to come up with one. They have no control over what unit will ship to you and only a few buttons they can push.

Dana

I have a question about my H21.
My H21 crashed yesterday while I was at work. It does that from time to time. I simply have to go through setup, and then call Directv to get the local channels re-authorized.
This time, in setup, it said all the readings for 103a were zero, and also that 119 had failed.

But I am receiving all the channels I'm supposed to.

What do you guys think is the deal with this?

I would prefer to buy a new box at retail if they would reimburse me.

Tried that. They would not go for it. I wanted to go to Best buy and buy two and get reimbursed but the CSR wouldn't bite. I've been with them since '97 and have a huge monthly bill but I don't rate enough to be able to buy my own equipment. I don't mind recons provided that they are actually reconditioned. For what it's worth: Both bad units that I have received have been HR20-700's. The other models that I have received have worked flawlessly.

I really miss my HR10-250's.

Finally got them to agree to send me some B-Band converters.

ETA: 21 days! :eek:

I guess that somebody is walking them from the distributor to my house.

They wanted to send a tech to my house to determine that I really don't have the converters. ETA: October 24! I guess that they think that I'm really stupid. There is a picture of the B-Band converters in the box with the instructions that you need them for the mpeg-4 channels. This isn't brain surgery.

I guess that somebody is walking them from the distributor to my house.

Tried that. They would not go for it. I wanted to go to Best buy and buy two and get reimbursed but the CSR wouldn't bite. I've been with them since '97 and have a huge monthly bill but I don't rate enough to be able to buy my own equipment. I don't mind recons provided that they are actually reconditioned. For what it's worth: Both bad units that I have received have been HR20-700's. The other models that I have received have worked flawlessly.

I really miss my HR10-250's.

Finally got them to agree to send me some B-Band converters.

ETA: 21 days! :eek:

I guess that somebody is walking them from the distributor to my house.

They wanted to send a tech to my house to determine that I really don't have the converters. ETA: October 24! I guess that they think that I'm really stupid. There is a picture of the B-Band converters in the box with the instructions that you need them for the mpeg-4 channels. This isn't brain surgery.

I guess that somebody is walking them from the distributor to my house.

Get Customer Retention involved. You can get to them by saying "Cancel service" when the automated voice asks why you are calling. Keep repeating those words if /when asked again. Customer Retention will eventually answer. They are more experienced and capable than the front line reps.

Dana

FWIW, the west coast HD DNS channels will move from the 119 bird to the 103, pretty soon. The few customers who get those but still have a 3LNB dish up might want to consider getting the new dish.

Doc

FWIW, the west coast HD DNS channels will move from the 119 bird to the 103, pretty soon. The few customers who get those but still have a 3LNB dish up might want to consider getting the new dish.

Doc

Rather confused by this post :confused:

West Coast HD DNS moved to 103W about a year ago.

NY EAST COAST HD DNS is still on 119W/Directv7s and simulcast in MPEG4 on 103W shortly. Is that what you mean?

Believe it or not, the latest receiver, H23 and the latest DVR, the HR22, have the BBC built in!

The last paragraph holds the answer to many of your questions. "Reconditioned" units by definition are older units without the latest and greatest improvements. I run away from those like the plague. When I received one free on a deal when I added a receiver, I called and asked that D* send a "recovery box" (a prepaid cushioned box that FEDEX will pick up) for the return of the reconditioned unit and said I would prefer to buy a new box at retail if they would reimburse me. That was OK with the CSR. I've done that twice now, getting the new units I wanted at BB and getting the D* to credit my account once the new box is activated.

I find the best approach is to offer the CSR a solution to a problem rather than depending on them to come up with one. They have no control over what unit will ship to you and only a few buttons they can push.

Dana

They can credit your account and have no issue doing that - because whenever a NEW IRD that you purchase at retail store is activated, you just signed on for another 2 years of D* - regardless of what they tell you on the phone (I know - I went through this and had a 2nd party witnessed conferenced in and a tape recording of the conversation). The CSRs have no legal right to change the terms of the Master Directv Agreement with you - just as the fry cook has no legal right to sign an agreement to switch from Coke to Pepsi at McDonalds.

A friend of mine was able to have DTV reimburse him for the receiver he got from BBY. You just need to speak to customer retention.

Kemical_head

stopping by just to post a little FYI on my recent upgrade. i waited for a while to jump on the upgrade calls. i kept telling the callers that the deal was not good enough and i was looking at dish and comcast. last go around the CSR gave me the number for the retention department. when i finally got around to calling i really had no issues getting what i needed. i was not looking for the world, just what i needed. with my recent basement finishing i needed a bit more then i had previously. in the end i am getting two hd dvrs, one am21, one standard hd receiver, the dish, installation, and three months free HBO for $100. i think i have been a customer for 10 years or so.

i am looking forward to watching the Cubs march to the World Series on a 119 inch screen in HD. sweeeeeet!!! :) later.

I have had the HR 21 -200 for awhile and added the AM21
box.
What is it providing me?

There are a few local channels I can get if I bypass the Direct TV equipment
and go straight into my TV, why is that?

Would I get the program guide for my local channels
without it?

How strong of a signal does it need to provide for the local
stations to be watchable?

Thanks,

OK we got it

Bronco70,


Which message were you responding to?


Thanks,

Bukzin, did you read the instructions that came with the AM21? It explains everything in there very well.

The AM21 will allow you to tune in your local digital stations if you hook up an antenna. It till integrate them into your main program guide and you can record them to the DVR just like any other channel. You have to set up the AM21 by telling it what zip code, or zip codes (if you can get channels from more than one area) you are in so it knows what channels to try to tune into.

Bronco70,


Which message were you responding to?


Thanks,

I had two tabs open and responded to the wrong thread. :)

I have had the HR 21 -200 for awhile and added the AM21
box.
What is it providing me?

There are a few local channels I can get if I bypass the Direct TV equipment
and go straight into my TV, why is that?

Would I get the program guide for my local channels
without it?

How strong of a signal does it need to provide for the local
stations to be watchable?

Thanks,

The AM-21 OTA tuner has no channel search capability. My AM-21 replaced an HR 10-250 which did directly search. You could input a OTA digital station and the 10-250 would attempt to tune to it. My house sits at just about the highest elevation in the County. I have a high gain directional antenna with a signal pre-amp and a rotor attached. The end result was an ability to pull in stations from three markets. Although fooling around with the rotor position to acquire some very distant stations was more of a gee, can't believe that is possible, than a useful feature.

D* uses Tribune Media Services to send OTA channel and program information to the AM-21. That's why you have to input Zip Codes during setup. You can add a second Zip Code from another market.

The local stations that you can receive with the tuner in your TV but not from the AM-21 has at least one explanation. Local station engineers must give information to Tribune which is then sent to D* for use with the AM-21. Over at DBS Talk there is some discussion concerning this. Seems a few stations simply have not communicated with Tribune. Go figure?

There was one thread and if IIRC the OP lived in the Salt Lake area. His AM-21 did not list one of the network stations for his local market. The workaround suggested was to find a station affiliate in the same time zone that used the same digital channel, enter that Zip Code and by that method force the AM-21 to tune to it.

The AM-21 is an excellent tuner, much better than what was in the HR 10-250. Setup is very simple. The integrated program guide is seamless, though that is no change from the 10-250.

As to signal strengths all my locals come in at 90 or above with many at 96-100. I was able to find a single rotor position that would also give access to most of the secondary market stations. That is a welcome change.

I have found that a signal in the mid 50's provides a fairly stable image with the AM-21.

All this being said, I find myself not using the AM-21 much. The image quality of the locals in MPEG 4 is just as good as OTA. It has come in handy during a rain fade event once or twice.

Hope this helps.

Joe

Rather confused by this post :confused:

West Coast HD DNS moved to 103W about a year ago.

NY EAST COAST HD DNS is still on 119W/Directv7s and simulcast in MPEG4 on 103W shortly. Is that what you mean?
I was told West Coast is still on 119W in MPEG-4 (as well as on 103W). Info's from the top, but I can recheck it.

Believe it or not, the latest receiver, H23 and the latest DVR, the HR22, have the BBC built in!

Dana

That weird, I had a HR22 installed last night and 103 would not come in until we put BBCs on it. The H23 worked without them.

TPM

That weird, I had a HR22 installed last night and 103 would not come in until we put BBCs on it. The H23 worked without them.

TPM

Ditto. Same thing here.

That weird, I had a HR22 installed last night and 103 would not come in until we put BBCs on it. The H23 worked without them.

TPM

Then I stand corrected. Maybe it's just the H23s with the BBC built in.

There's a downside to the built-in BBC in any event. It may not be such a great idea. I just had a BBC fail. It was a black one attached to my H21-200 receiver. It failed while i was watching D* actually and I didn't realize what was happening. Suddenly, a 771 searching for signal code on all channels (except maybe HD local into locals). It was sitting there undisturbed, gathering dust on the back of the receiver. No apparent reason for failure. It just did.

Fortunately, I had a spare BBC, a gray one, that I attached and Bingo, the receiver is back in business. I ordered two more from the D* website no charge just in case.

Apparently, failure of the BBC is a common cause of losing signal. If this is a weak link, building it into the H23s may be a bad idea.

Dana

Then I stand corrected. Maybe it's just the H23s with the BBC built in.

There's a downside to the built-in BBC in any event. It may not be such a great idea. I just had a BBC fail. It was a black one attached to my H21-200 receiver. It failed while i was watching D* actually and I didn't realize what was happening. Suddenly, a 771 searching for signal code on all channels (except maybe HD local into locals). It was sitting there undisturbed, gathering dust on the back of the receiver. No apparent reason for failure. It just did.

Fortunately, I had a spare BBC, a gray one, that I attached and Bingo, the receiver is back in business. I ordered two more from the D* website no charge just in case.

Apparently, failure of the BBC is a common cause of losing signal. If this is a weak link, building it into the H23s may be a bad idea.

Dana

It is only the H23 that does not need the BBC. But the H23 does not have a built-in BBC. It has a wide-band receiver that receives the b-band signals without needing to convert them.

.....
Apparently, failure of the BBC is a common cause of losing signal. If this is a weak link, building it into the H23s may be a bad idea.

Dana

The failure point is the coax pigtail that get twisted and breaks the connection point during installation. (Give your old ones a twist, the coax may come completely out) Not having that fragile external connection is a good thing. As texasbrit points out, the new design just eliminates the need for it.

Ernie

The failure point is the coax pigtail that get twisted and breaks the connection point during installation. (Give your old ones a twist, the coax may come completely out) Not having that fragile external connection is a good thing. As texasbrit points out, the new design just eliminates the need for it.

Ernie

In my case, the BBC was undisturbed in the position it had been in for 10 months except now it was dusty. It was a black model that never had the coax pigtail folded over on itself in a box. (They come in a plastic wrapper unbent.) And I believe the pigtail is more securely fastened to the black plastic box - but I didn't test it.

And it still failed.

Dana

Ok guys,

I just spent the better part of my life today reading through this thread trying to come up with an appropriate "request list" for when I call D* to get my "Free upgrade to the new HD" or whatever the letter they sent me calls it. Here's what I have now and what I want to upgrade to:

Currently own:
1 - SD TIVO
1 - HD TIVO
2 - HD STB
1 Spawn 5x8 Multiswitch

I'd like to upgrade to:
2 - HD DVR
2 - HD STB
2 - AM21 tuners (I think)
Whatever switch I need.

So can someone detail the list of things I need to ask for as far as a particular model of DVR and HD STB? D* does not carry at least two of the local digital/HD stations that I watch and record from regularly, so if I do "upgrade" to MPEG4, I'm essentially "downgrading" in that I will lose the ability to watch or record these stations since OTA record is now lost without AM21, right? Has anyone negotiated getting AM21s to address this concern? Is there a particular type of dish I should ask for, as well. I currently have a roof mounted 3LNB dish that made it through Hurricane Ike without an issue.

Oh yeah, and how will I know if I need BBCs? I want to make sure I have the CSR stipulate EXACTLY what I negotiate for on the work order to the mouth breathing installers that will drag their knuckles over to my house to install this stuff, despite my wanting to do everything but the dish install myself.

Regards,
Jeff

"Oh yeah, and how will I know if I need BBCs? I want to make sure I have the CSR stipulate EXACTLY what I negotiate for on the work order to the mouth breathing installers that will drag their knuckles over to my house to install this stuff, despite my wanting to do everything but the dish install myself."

We have installers who post here who will really appreciate that comment. Probably some mouth breathers too due to medical conditions. If you want help you should be civil. If you just want to make a statement about installers then you have that right.

"Oh yeah, and how will I know if I need BBCs? I want to make sure I have the CSR stipulate EXACTLY what I negotiate for on the work order to the mouth breathing installers that will drag their knuckles over to my house to install this stuff, despite my wanting to do everything but the dish install myself."

We have installers who post here who will really appreciate that comment. Probably some mouth breathers too due to medical conditions. If you want help you should be civil. If you just want to make a statement about installers then you have that right.

I'm not sure where the original comment came from, but I second your response. Civility is an attribute of a civilized person. But sadly lacking on some of these forum threads.

Separate BBCs come in the box with new receivers and new DVRs that need them. Refurbs are another story but I think installers have extra BBCs on their trucks.

Dana

I'm not sure where the original comment came from, but I second your response. Civility is an attribute of a civilized person. But sadly lacking on some of these forum threads.

unless you're talking about best buy employees...i think they're fair game around here ;)

but anyway, don't assume the csr will be any more knowledgeable than the installer. a friend of mine just started working there as a csr and i doubt he can hook up an hdtv.

i had problems with the csr's and the installers. the only person who gave me no bad info was the dispatcher for the installer who correctly confirmed that i was set to get an HR-20 (with OTA tuner), which i specifically requested. intsaller didn't even know what i was talking about.

good luck with the install.

LOL

Wow, clearly you don't live in Houston. Not only is English barely spoken by ANY installer I have ever dealt with (at least 6 different companies with no less than 20 different installers), but their knowledge of their product and how to do their job is positively laughable. I'd be happy to find a company in the Houston area with reputable employees or service, but D* themselves have plenty of complaints from me on record about their amazing contracted installers in this area. I've been asked everything from "what's a multiswitch" to "what's an LNB" and "RG6? We use the type of cable that connects the satellite to your box" by my installers. Top that off with both crews that installed TIVOs in my home on two separate occasions leaving before calling D* or verifying that anything was working because "we have another job to get to, I'm sure it will work."

My apologies if any installers worth their salt on this thread/board took that as a personal insult. Allow me to amend my barbed comment and aim it directly at any and all installers I have EVER dealt with in the Houston area. I'd be willing to bet that none of you have ever been to any of my homes in the past and given me the giddy pleasure of talking to someone who knew what they were doing for a living. If so, for shame.

Again, no insult intended to those who do a good job. I just haven't met any so far.

As for the CSRs, based on past experience, I know better than to count on anything from them. Regardless, I want a written record in my account so that every time I have to call D* back... and believe me, I will, at least I can point out what it says in the notes to the new random CSR I will deal with.

Regards,
Jeff


PS - I just remembered the most illustrative example of the high class installers I've dealt with. This was when moving my current setup from my previous home to the current one. The installer showed up 7 hours late. Here was his explanation, "Oh, sorry, man. I got so wasted last night that I forgot where I parked my car and had to walk like 9 miles home. I didn't know where my keys were, so I had to bust into my apartment and then got into an argument with my girlfriend over where I was last night. By the time I got my spare keys and found out where my truck was, it was pretty late. If you can help me with this install, it'll get done alot quicker."

Need I say more?

LOL

Wow, clearly you don't live in Houston. Not only is English barely spoken by ANY installer I have ever dealt with (at least 6 different companies with no less than 20 different installers), but their knowledge of their product and how to do their job is positively laughable. I'd be happy to find a company in the Houston area with reputable employees or service, but D* themselves have plenty of complaints from me on record about their amazing contracted installers in this area. I've been asked everything from "what's a multiswitch" to "what's an LNB" and "RG6? We use the type of cable that connects the satellite to your box" by my installers. Top that off with both crews that installed TIVOs in my home on two separate occasions leaving before calling D* or verifying that anything was working because "we have another job to get to, I'm sure it will work."

My apologies if any installers worth their salt on this thread/board took that as a personal insult. Allow me to amend my barbed comment and aim it directly at any and all installers I have EVER dealt with in the Houston area. I'd be willing to bet that none of you have ever been to any of my homes in the past and given me the giddy pleasure of talking to someone who knew what they were doing for a living. If so, for shame.

Again, no insult intended to those who do a good job. I just haven't met any so far.

As for the CSRs, based on past experience, I know better than to count on anything from them. Regardless, I want a written record in my account so that every time I have to call D* back... and believe me, I will, at least I can point out what it says in the notes to the new random CSR I will deal with.

Regards,
Jeff


PS - I just remembered the most illustrative example of the high class installers I've dealt with. This was when moving my current setup from my previous home to the current one. The installer showed up 7 hours late. Here was his explanation, "Oh, sorry, man. I got so wasted last night that I forgot where I parked my car and had to walk like 9 miles home. I didn't know where my keys were, so I had to bust into my apartment and then got into an argument with my girlfriend over where I was last night. By the time I got my spare keys and found out where my truck was, it was pretty late. If you can help me with this install, it'll get done alot quicker."

Need I say more?

In all honesty, D*, E* and anyone using independent contractors usually have the same problem. Since D* and E* both pay squat for installs, no surprise that the installer just wants to throw the unit in and hit the door, whether things are working or not.

And showing up on time? LOL....forget about it. Even scheduling first thing in the morning, as you found out, guarantees you squat - and anything after the first stop is never on time either.

anyone with any time or experience with D* and their "installers" knows it rarely goes well.

anyway, just got my upgrade installed. after one no show i have two HD TiVo units, one HD unit, and the new dish up and running. coming from the good old Sony Sat T60 i have one question; can you jump back and forth between the two tuners like with the Sony? i loved that feature as it was so cool when watching and pausing two shows in real time at the same time. much thanks.

No.

Hi everyone

I live in Houston and my dish was blown out of alignment due to Hurricane Ike. A Direct TV tech came by yesterday to re-align my dish. He set my stb to show the signal strength and then he went on my roof and started to re-align the dish. He told me to stand at my stb and tell him what the signal meter said. After a while he was able get a signal reading and I told him that it was jumpin between 94 and 96. He said that was good enough and started to tighten the dish. Everything seems to be working OK so far with my Direct TV, but my question is did this guy align my dish correctly? Is a 94-96 signal good enough? Will I have signal problems later on? I just want to make sure because this guy did not seem like he really cared about doing a good job; he was rather blunt and rude with the service.

Is a 94-96 signal good enough?

It is better than 'good enough'. It is excellent.

It is better than 'good enough'. It is excellent.

lol, exactly.

No.

too bad that was my favorite feature of my good old Sony Sat T-60 TiVo unit.

It is better than 'good enough'. It is excellent.

Thanks, for the re-assurance! Now all I have to do is get the rest of my house back in order again.

I got a letter from D* stating that I would have to upgrade to the new MPEG4 system. I currently have the triple LNB and H10 and H20 receivers to receive HD. I have hesitated to upgrade since I currently get my locals through OTA and I use diplexers to send the OTA and sat signals through the same line. I understand that may not be possible under the new set up. I do not want to pay more since I am happy with what I get now. The advantages are that I would receive more HD through D* than I get with my current setup.

After reading through the various posts I am confussed as to what I will need to request from D* to continue receiving OTA and sat through the same line and what receivers have digital tuners for OTA. I think my H20 will be okay, but D* will need to replace my H10 to recieve MPEG4 signals. Any suggestions on how to keep my services and costs the same and have D* do the upgrade? What should I do to minimize costs? Thanks in advance for your suggestions.

too bad that was my favorite feature of my good old Sony Sat T-60 TiVo unit.

I have a HR20, HR21, and the good old reliable SAT-T60. Having the dual buffering on the SAT-T60 is the main feature that it has over the newer units. Sometimes while watching two different sports I switch between the HR20 and the HR21. It's still not the same.

There still may be hope in the future when the new D* DVR TiVos start arriving. There was talk several months ago that the HR series would get a software update to allow dual buffering. Hasn't happen yet and I haven't heard a world on it lately. :(

There still may be hope in the future when the new D* DVR TiVos start arriving. There was talk several months ago that the HR series would get a software update to allow dual buffering. Hasn't happen yet and I haven't heard a world on it lately. :(

d* will be offering real tivos again? HD? (apparently i've been living under a rock)

d* will be offering real tivos again? HD? (apparently i've been living under a rock)

Expected to be out in the 2nd half of 2009. You can crawl back under for another year. :)

I got a letter from D* stating that I would have to upgrade to the new MPEG4 system. I currently have the triple LNB and H10 and H20 receivers to receive HD. I have hesitated to upgrade since I currently get my locals through OTA and I use diplexers to send the OTA and sat signals through the same line. I understand that may not be possible under the new set up. I do not want to pay more since I am happy with what I get now. The advantages are that I would receive more HD through D* than I get with my current setup.

After reading through the various posts I am confussed as to what I will need to request from D* to continue receiving OTA and sat through the same line and what receivers have digital tuners for OTA. I think my H20 will be okay, but D* will need to replace my H10 to recieve MPEG4 signals. Any suggestions on how to keep my services and costs the same and have D* do the upgrade? What should I do to minimize costs? Thanks in advance for your suggestions.

Is anyone out there? From the other posts it seems this MPEG4 conversion and installation have been a problem. Any suggestions?

^^^^ none of their new receivers have built in OTA. for those wanting OTA they provide a stand alone receiver. your best bet is just call them and tell them what you have and what you want. then, go from there. good luck.

Topic unstuck.

I just had an HR21 and H21 installed by a DirecTV contractor. He said they don't need the B-band converters because they're built-in now. But I'm getting searching for satellite on most of the HD channels. The signal meter shows 0 signal on 99(c), 103(s), 103(c) and 110. I get good signal (90+ on all transponders) on 99(s), 101, and 119.

My neighbor has 2 HR21s, both with the B-band converters on them, and he gets all the HD channels and good signal readings on all the satellites.

Was my installer misinformed? He left saying it must be a problem with "trees" except all the trees are offline from the dish, and lower than the inclination angle. He said to wait for the leaves to drop and call him back if there still is a problem.

I just had an HR21 and H21 installed by a DirecTV contractor. He said they don't need the B-band converters because they're built-in now. But I'm getting searching for satellite on most of the HD channels. The signal meter shows 0 signal on 99(c), 103(s), 103(c) and 110. I get good signal (90+ on all transponders) on 99(s), 101, and 119.

My neighbor has 2 HR21s, both with the B-band converters on them, and he gets all the HD channels and good signal readings on all the satellites.

Was my installer misinformed? He left saying it must be a problem with "trees" except all the trees are offline from the dish, and lower than the inclination angle. He said to wait for the leaves to drop and call him back if there still is a problem.

You need the b-band converters with the HR21 and H21. They are built in beginning with the HR22.

You need the b-band converters with the HR21 and H21. They are built in beginning with the HR22.


yup, that's why the HR21 comes with the b-band converters. :D

...He left saying it must be a problem with "trees" except all the trees are offline from the dish, and lower than the inclination angle. He said to wait for the leaves to drop and call him back if there still is a problem.

This installer should be relieved of his duties

You need the b-band converters with the HR21 and H21. They are built in beginning with the HR22.

That's what I thought, too.

But, my sister got an HR22 (sorry, don't know the manufacturer code, but I could find out) installed 2 weeks ago....couldn't get any HD channels above 200......called D*.....they sent out another installer with BBCs to resolve the problem.

Thank you. I will call him back to install the converters.

Thank you. I will call him back to install the converters.

If you call Directv, they will drop ship them to you. You can probably get a monthly credit as well for the 'inconvenience'.

You need the b-band converters with the HR21 and H21. They are built in beginning with the HR22.

Only the H23 non-DVR receiver does not require the BBC (future models may do that also). It is not built-in, but the receiver can handle the B-band by itself so the BBC is not required. BBCs are not required for installations with a SWM or a dish with the SWM LNB.

What are the current deals that D* is providing for the MPEG4 upgrade for existing customers?

What are the current deals that D* is providing for the MPEG4 upgrade for existing customers?

A month ago they swapped out my 2 HD receivers and my HD DVR for free, free installation of a Slimline Dish, and Free SuperFan for Sunday Ticket - which I subscribe to. This was all equipment I had bought and installed on my own so I don't know if that was a factor or not.

They swapped out the old MPEG-2 receiver I doled out $700 for gratis. No lease fee or anything. I added another HD receiver and they are charging me a lease fee for that one. Did my own dish and cabling a year ago. I'm a Sunday Ticket Only subscriber.

Thanks, BVfan and DrDon.

Has anyone gotten the SWM and a distribution modulator for free.

We got our first snow up on the mountain and I had some channel outage due to the increased sensitivity of the Slimline dish. Snow turned into a crusty ice patch and that's all it took to create hd havoc.
I'm going to order a fabric or plastic dish cover and am wondering if any of you posters have any experience with a particular brand or model or style?
I don't really want a heater.

In my case, the BBC was undisturbed in the position it had been in for 10 months except now it was dusty. It was a black model that never had the coax pigtail folded over on itself in a box. (They come in a plastic wrapper unbent.) And I believe the pigtail is more securely fastened to the black plastic box - but I didn't test it.

And it still failed.

Dana

To update my post from almost a month ago, I subsequently discovered that a short coax cable that I thought was high quality with compression fittings, connecting my receiver's BBC to a Belkin AV surge/line conditioner, in fact had screw-on connectors - which I found out when one came apart! :(

So, it's more than likely that the BBC didn't fail and the cable connector did when possibly a cat rubbed against it. Unfortunately, that BBC got tossed in the trash so I can't confirm it. :o

Incidentally, I ordered two more BBCs on line from the D* web site about the same time - late last month. I have never received them.

Dana

We got our first snow up on the mountain and I had some channel outage due to the increased sensitivity of the Slimline dish. Snow turned into a crusty ice patch and that's all it took to create hd havoc.
I'm going to order a fabric or plastic dish cover and am wondering if any of you posters have any experience with a particular brand or model or style?
I don't really want a heater.
How's your signal strength. We get some pretty ugly ice storms up here and I've never lost my signal from it. Snow shouldn't be dense enough to block your signal, unlike heavy rain which really messes things up. Even heavy snow, which can reduce your signal, shouldn't cause you to lose it completely unless your levels were low to begin with.

That being said, each Fall, I spray some Pam Cooking spray on my dish (original, not the flavored stuff) and wipe it down. It really cuts down on snow buildup and rain tends to bead away rather than sheeting off.

Some people wax their dish, but I'd be careful that you don't change the reflectivity of it. It has to remain a "matte" finish for proper reception.

Glad I don't live in Buffalo, NY any longer. :)

Quick question so I do not have to search through the whole thread. A Directv rep just told me all channels now use Mpeg 4. Is she correct? Thanks!

Quick question so I do not have to search through the whole thread. A Directv rep just told me all channels now use Mpeg 4. Is she correct? Thanks!

Good Grief, some of the D* csr's are dumb, but this takes the cake. All SD is still Mpeg2. Have not done a count recently, but even around 10 HD channels are still Mpeg2.

Geez, last time I had a phone contact with D* it took a third person to know what an AM-21 was and what OTA signified.

Armed with information from this forum and one other we will keep them informed.

Joe

Good Grief, some of the D* csr's are dumb, but this takes the cake. All SD is still Mpeg2. Have not done a count recently, but even around 10 HD channels are still Mpeg2.

Geez, last time I had a phone contact with D* it took a third person to know what an AM-21 was and what OTA signified.

Armed with information from this forum and one other we will keep them informed.

Joe

All the HD channels in the 70s and 80s are still MPEG2. I also believe anything in the 90s is also MPEG2, which includes one or two PPVs.

Good Grief, some of the D* csr's are dumb, but this takes the cake. All SD is still Mpeg2. Have not done a count recently, but even around 10 HD channels are still Mpeg2.
If the CSR was simply referring to HD when he or she said "all channels" (let's face it, right now, anyone interested in HD can pretty much ignore SD for the most part with the amount of HD available), then that would be true. Any remaining MPEG2 channels are also available as MPEG4.

Has anyone heard of any temperature issues with the Slimline dish LNA's? I'm seeing some full-screen "flashes" of bright green. Very quick bursts, occasional, and on both HD and SD receivers on several tv sets. Temp is 6. Wasn't occurring in warmer Summer months, or in the Fall either. On both HD and SD programs.

Temp is 6.

I've isolated you problem for you. :D
Don't really know as it never gets that cold here.

I've isolated you problem for you. :D
Don't really know as it never gets that cold here.

It gets that cold here. But we don't get full screen flashes of bright green. Just blue if you stay outdoors too long. :)

I'd first do the obvious. Check all connections. It only takes one faulty one to screw things up. If nothing seems out of order, get D* to send a tech.

Dana

I recorded the Pittsburgh-Dallas game (Fox) last Sunday, temps were in the 20s. While watching the game, I saw no flashes. But during fast forwarding, I'd see green on the bottom half of the screen while the top was all black. So maybe there is something, but when it was live I never managed to see the bad frames.

I got an email from D* saying that my HD receivers will stop working in a few months (I have a H10 and a H20). I like my current set up which allows me to send OTA and satellite signals through the same wire and I distribute the signal to both D* recievers and to non D* tv. If I upgrade, what receivers will I most likely get? Can I get the AM-21 for non DVR HD receivers? (I currently get OTA from three different locals and want to be able to view OTA with each receiver). Can I still send OTA and satellite through the same wire and use a diplexer to split the signal?

When I talk with D* they do not seem to have any idea what I am talking about when I say I need to have OTA for my locals and keep saying I can get my locals through D*. When I say I can get three locals they say that is not possible and I should only be able to get the one local for my zip code.

In other words what should I ask for to keep sending OTA to my D* receivers and my TVs that are not hooked up to D* and use the D* receivers to process the OTA?

The AM-21 only works with the HR21, HR22, HR23 as far as I know. I think they eventually plan to get it working for the non DVR models but haven't heard much on it. Tell them they do not carry all of the subchannels you want, so you need the AM-21.

As far as running the OTA antenna and DirecTV over the same wires I think there is a way, but I don't know much about it. If you read around in some of the other DirecTV threads you can probably find more info on it.

First, your existing receivers won't stop working, it's just that the H10 won't be able to receive any DirecTV HD channels, because the ones now available in MPEG-2 (channel numbers in the 70s) are being shut down. The H20 will continue to work fine

The AM21 works with the HR21/22/23 DVRs, and with the R22 SD DVR. The latest test software release for the H21 receiver also supports the AM21 so I guess will appear in the next national release for the H21 - so support on the receivers should not be far away.

Let's assume for the moment the AM21 works with the receivers (your H20 won't need an AM21). The problem with diplexing OTA signals on to the same cables as the satellite signals is that OTA is in the same frequency band as the signals from the DirecTV10 and 11 satellites that carry all the HD channels, so by far the best solution is to run a separate cable to the AM21. There are two other solutions. First is to move the B-band converter from immediately behind the receiver to somewhere inside the house but nearer the dish, and then to diplex in the OTA signal AFTER the BBC (so it would go dish>house>bbc>diplexer in) and then use a diplexer at the receiver to split OTA out to the AM21. This won't work if you have an H23 (or HR23) because they don't use BBCs. It is a solution not approved by DirecTV, because the BBC is designed to be close to the receiver and if you move it too far away from the receiver (or your cables are not good) then it may not work. But most people have been successful with this - I had OTA to my HR20s using this approach for two years, until I got my SWM8.
And the second solution is to use the SWM (single wire multiswitch) technology. I assume you already have a slimline dish, and then you can buy an SWM LNB to replace the one in the slimline dish. The SWM in the dish moves all the signals to different frequencies that do not interfere with OTA. You run a single wire to the house, and then use splitters to drive the receivers. You can diplex OTA on to the cable and then use diplexers to split the OTA out to the AM21s. Again, diplexing is not officially supported by DirecTV - in this case it's because the SWM system uses a control signal down at 2.3Mhz and some diplexers don't pass this to the SWM. But again, most people have done this successfully (my installation successfully diplexes OTA on to the SWM cable).

Right now if you swap over to the new receiver from the H10 you will lose OTA. When AM21 support on the receivers is "official", then AM21s plus a direct OTA cable or one of the two other solutions will restore OTA.
You probably will not be able to get an AM21 when you get the new receivers because as I said the AM21 is not supported yet. So make sure that you get the CSR to annotate your account to say that when AM21 support on the receivers is official you will get the AM21 (s) free of charge.

First, your existing receivers won't stop working, it's just that the H10 won't be able to receive any DirecTV HD channels, because the ones now available in MPEG-2 (channel numbers in the 70s) are being shut down. The H20 will continue to work fine

The AM21 works with the HR21/22/23 DVRs, and with the R22 SD DVR. The latest test software release for the H21 receiver also supports the AM21 so I guess will appear in the next national release for the H21 - so support on the receivers should not be far away.

Let's assume for the moment the AM21 works with the receivers (your H20 won't need an AM21). The problem with diplexing OTA signals on to the same cables as the satellite signals is that OTA is in the same frequency band as the signals from the DirecTV10 and 11 satellites that carry all the HD channels, so by far the best solution is to run a separate cable to the AM21. There are two other solutions. First is to move the B-band converter from immediately behind the receiver to somewhere inside the house but nearer the dish, and then to diplex in the OTA signal AFTER the BBC (so it would go dish>house>bbc>diplexer in) and then use a diplexer at the receiver to split OTA out to the AM21. This won't work if you have an H23 (or HR23) because they don't use BBCs. It is a solution not approved by DirecTV, because the BBC is designed to be close to the receiver and if you move it too far away from the receiver (or your cables are not good) then it may not work. But most people have been successful with this - I had OTA to my HR20s using this approach for two years, until I got my SWM8.
And the second solution is to use the SWM (single wire multiswitch) technology. I assume you already have a slimline dish, and then you can buy an SWM LNB to replace the one in the slimline dish. The SWM in the dish moves all the signals to different frequencies that do not interfere with OTA. You run a single wire to the house, and then use splitters to drive the receivers. You can diplex OTA on to the cable and then use diplexers to split the OTA out to the AM21s. Again, diplexing is not officially supported by DirecTV - in this case it's because the SWM system uses a control signal down at 2.3Mhz and some diplexers don't pass this to the SWM. But again, most people have done this successfully (my installation successfully diplexes OTA on to the SWM cable).

Right now if you swap over to the new receiver from the H10 you will lose OTA. When AM21 support on the receivers is "official", then AM21s plus a direct OTA cable or one of the two other solutions will restore OTA.
You probably will not be able to get an AM21 when you get the new receivers because as I said the AM21 is not supported yet. So make sure that you get the CSR to annotate your account to say that when AM21 support on the receivers is official you will get the AM21 (s) free of charge.
Thanks Beerstalker and texasbrit.

You have confirmed what I thought from reading the various threads on this topic. I didn't mention that I use a projector for viewing HD. That is whay I need an OTA tuner. Also, I do not have a slimline dish (Just the oval dish with 3 LNB). I will try to get D* to upgrade my dish with a slimline dish with SWM8 multiswitch. That (with diplexers at the receiver/tvs) should address my OTA and satellite over the same line issue. I will also try to get D* to upgrade to a DVR with AM-21 to replace my H10. That should take care of the OTA tuner issue.

Currebtly, the H10 mirrors the H20 and is my second receiver. So i currently get charged for a second receiver at $4.99 / month. Do you know if D* charges $4.99 / month for the DVR for a total of $8.99 if I upgrade to a DVR?

They charge $4.99 for every receiver you have hooked up. They then refund the $4.99 for your primary receiver (so if you have 3 receivers your pay for 2 so $9.98 total).

They then charge a $5.99 fee for DVR service no mattery how many DVRs you have (at least I think so, I have 2 DVRs and only pay one DVR fee).

You won't get an SWM8 stand-alone multiswitch from DirecTV, they are not in the normal installer pipeline. Even if you call and somehow get the CSR to put this on the order there's a 99.999% chance it won't happen. It's possible you might get the SWM dish, which is a slimline dish with the SWM LNB. Again, you won't get one unless your installer is using this dish for upgrades, the CSR at DirecTV can't "order" one for you. If you don't get the SWM dish, it will be a standard slimline, but you can then change it to SWM either by buying the SWM LNB or the SWM8 multiswitch. The SWM LNB is the least expensive SWM upgrade.
When you order the upgrade the CSR probably won't be able to order you an AM21 right away. Until your account shows that you have a DVR that is AM21 compatible it appears the system won't accept the order.

You won't get an SWM8 stand-alone multiswitch from DirecTV, they are not in the normal installer pipeline. Even if you call and somehow get the CSR to put this on the order there's a 99.999% chance it won't happen. It's possible you might get the SWM dish, which is a slimline dish with the SWM LNB. Again, you won't get one unless your installer is using this dish for upgrades, the CSR at DirecTV can't "order" one for you. If you don't get the SWM dish, it will be a standard slimline, but you can then change it to SWM either by buying the SWM LNB or the SWM8 multiswitch. The SWM LNB is the least expensive SWM upgrade.
When you order the upgrade the CSR probably won't be able to order you an AM21 right away. Until your account shows that you have a DVR that is AM21 compatible it appears the system won't accept the order.

The AM21 is available from other vendors. http://www.solidsignal.com/prod_display.asp?prod=AM21

Dana

I want to connect a 5x8 multiswitch to my PhaseIII DirecTV dish. The 4 cables have already been run into my attic a few feet from my fascia board mounted dish (DTV Installed) so what I need to know is if anyone can confirm what each of the 4 outputs at the LNB are. The multiswitch has 2 Sat. A & 2 Sat. B inputs with the Sat.B ports carrying the 22KHz tone. In a nutshell, I need to know which LNB out goes to which multiswitch input? Anyone?

I want to connect a 5x8 multiswitch to my PhaseIII DirecTV dish. The 4 cables have already been run into my attic a few feet from my fascia board mounted dish (DTV Installed) so what I need to know is if anyone can confirm what each of the 4 outputs at the LNB are. The multiswitch has 2 Sat. A & 2 Sat. B inputs with the Sat.B ports carrying the 22KHz tone. In a nutshell, I need to know which LNB out goes to which multiswitch input? Anyone?
Just hook up each of the four LNB to the 4 inputs on the multiswitch; order is not important. The multiswitch merely "tunes" each LNB output to a different config/satellite and then leaves that connection undisturbed. As you switch channels on the receiver, the multiswitch picks the correct LNB output to send to the receiver.

In other words, it doesn't matter. :-)

Kirk is correct

Just hook up each of the four LNB to the 4 inputs on the multiswitch; order is not important. The multiswitch merely "tunes" each LNB output to a different config/satellite and then leaves that connection undisturbed. As you switch channels on the receiver, the multiswitch picks the correct LNB output to send to the receiver.

In other words, it doesn't matter. :-)

Hi Kirk. Reading your answer and my original question, it occurred to me that I should clarify that I was talking about connecting an external multiswitch and not the internal multiswitch mounted on the dish itself. I imagine you already knew that but I thought I should make sure because after I posted my question, I read a set of generic instructions that claimed the tone generating cables were port specific. I'd appreciate you verifying this (for my sanity) because your answer means I don't have to monkey with the connections at the dish.
Thanks.

Kirk is still correct.

Kirk is still correct.

That's what I was hoping to hear. Thank you Jeff.

While we're on topic, I had another question or two. Since I use a distribution amp on my OTA signal, the amplified signal will be fed through the multiswitch. Will this cause any grief when the OTA and Sat lignals are combined inside the switch and fed back out as one? I do realize I have to separate the signals with diplexors before they hit the TV sets.
The next question is about using a DirecTV HD receiver in lieu of a digital converter box. I have an H20 on one TV where I'm able to watch HD. I'd like to get one for another room where the TV has no HD capability. Should I assume that the H20 can be used even if the set is only capable of SD output? If so, I assume the B-band module is not needed. The reason for doing this is because the set in question will be replaced with an HD capable set in a year or two so I'd be able to access both OTA and DTV channels on the same guide. Essentially, I'll be setting myself up for a quick transition when I upgrade the set and in the meantime, I'm good to go when/if they finally move to all digital in June. Instead of having a useless converter box on my hands, I'll be ready to connect the H20 to a new HD set and enjoy. Of course, I called DTV for clarification and got some kid who had no idea what I was talking about. I just want to know if I'm on the right track so I can look for a used H20. Any input is appreciated.

I did the same thing back when I had a triple LNB dish with the OTA distribution amp. That will work just fine.

You can put a HD receiver on an SD TV, no problem. I do that in my kids playroom. You will want to use the B-Band converters, though, that's a separate issue.


That's what I was hoping to hear. Thank you Jeff.

While we're on topic, I had another question or two. Since I use a distribution amp on my OTA signal, the amplified signal will be fed through the multiswitch. Will this cause any grief when the OTA and Sat lignals are combined inside the switch and fed back out as one? I do realize I have to separate the signals with diplexors before they hit the TV sets.
The next question is about using a DirecTV HD receiver in lieu of a digital converter box. I have an H20 on one TV where I'm able to watch HD. I'd like to get one for another room where the TV has no HD capability. Should I assume that the H20 can be used even if the set is only capable of SD output? If so, I assume the B-band module is not needed. The reason for doing this is because the set in question will be replaced with an HD capable set in a year or two so I'd be able to access both OTA and DTV channels on the same guide. Essentially, I'll be setting myself up for a quick transition when I upgrade the set and in the meantime, I'm good to go when/if they finally move to all digital in June. Instead of having a useless converter box on my hands, I'll be ready to connect the H20 to a new HD set and enjoy. Of course, I called DTV for clarification and got some kid who had no idea what I was talking about. I just want to know if I'm on the right track so I can look for a used H20. Any input is appreciated.

I have a question about whether I can distribute a D* signal within my home using the existing cable TV coax. I have read many posts in this forum and dbssatellite.com, but not found an answer to my specific question.

I currently have D* in my 20-year old home that was wired for cable TV when it was built, with an HD-DVR receiver and an HDTV. I am now considering getting a second HD-DVR in another room where I plan to buy a another HDTV.

Can I take one of the two coax cables coming from the dish and split it before it connects to the HD-DVR, and run one of the leads to the nearby cable TV box in the wall? Would doing so permit a second HD-DVR in the other room simply to be connected to the cable TV wall box in that room to get the D* signal (once the second receiver is activated, of course)?

The two D* coax cables coming from the dish are entirely separate from the existing cable TV coax, I deliberately had the installer do that. The length of the existing coax between the dish and HD-DVR is about 75 feet. I am not the original homeowner and do not know how the cable TV coax within the house was originally laid out.

When I switched from Cox cable to D*, the only service I kept is high speed internet. The cable modem is located in a different room from where the new TV and second HD-DVR would be located. However, the cable modem is on an outside wall and is connected to a new, separate coax run by Cox to the pedestal near the street; it was installed when I moved in solely for that purpose. So within the house, the cable modem is not connected to the coax that was used for cable TV.

Is using the existing cable TV coax advisable, even if feasible? Am I limited to installing another coax run between the dish and other room, or are there other options? Thanks.

I currently have D* in my 20-year old home that was wired for cable TV when it was built....

Hey DFuzz,
If the cable is 20 years old, it needs to be replaced. The cable used today for digital signal transmission is far superior to what was being used back then. I wouldn't even consider keeping the old cable. As for the rest, I'm really not clear on what service you're using so it's impossible to comment. I'm not sure what D* is (Dish Net, DirecTV?). You mentioned using a cable box too so I'm just not clear what you have or want to accomplish. Maybe someone more qualified will post for you.

You cannot use splitters, but you may or may not be able to use your existing wire plant. I used my 30 year old RG56 plant successfully with DirecTV for 8 years until I had an opportunity to replace it with the recommended RG6.

I have a question about whether I can distribute a D* signal within my home using the existing cable TV coax. I have read many posts in this forum and dbssatellite.com, but not found an answer to my specific question.

I currently have D* in my 20-year old home that was wired for cable TV when it was built, with an HD-DVR receiver and an HDTV. I am now considering getting a second HD-DVR in another room where I plan to buy a another HDTV.

Can I take one of the two coax cables coming from the dish and split it before it connects to the HD-DVR, and run one of the leads to the nearby cable TV box in the wall? Would doing so permit a second HD-DVR in the other room simply to be connected to the cable TV wall box in that room to get the D* signal (once the second receiver is activated, of course)?

The two D* coax cables coming from the dish are entirely separate from the existing cable TV coax, I deliberately had the installer do that. The length of the existing coax between the dish and HD-DVR is about 75 feet. I am not the original homeowner and do not know how the cable TV coax within the house was originally laid out.

When I switched from Cox cable to D*, the only service I kept is high speed internet. The cable modem is located in a different room from where the new TV and second HD-DVR would be located. However, the cable modem is on an outside wall and is connected to a new, separate coax run by Cox to the pedestal near the street; it was installed when I moved in solely for that purpose. So within the house, the cable modem is not connected to the coax that was used for cable TV.

Is using the existing cable TV coax advisable, even if feasible? Am I limited to installing another coax run between the dish and other room, or are there other options? Thanks.

Hey DFuzz,
If the cable is 20 years old, it needs to be replaced. The cable used today for digital signal transmission is far superior to what was being used back then. I wouldn't even consider keeping the old cable. As for the rest, I'm really not clear on what service you're using so it's impossible to comment. I'm not sure what D* is (Dish Net, DirecTV?). You mentioned using a cable box too so I'm just not clear what you have or want to accomplish. Maybe someone more qualified will post for you.

Thanks for the response, mtrunz. D* is the abbreviation often used in this forum for DirecTV. I switched to DirecTV last fall and currently have an HR21 HD-DVR for the STB. While I kept my cable modem for high speed internet service, I no longer have a cable box because I no longer subscribe to cable TV through the local provider, Cox.

What I was hoping to do is avoid installing another new coax from the dish on the roof for a second STB. Your point about the age of the existing in-wall coax cable compared to that used today makes sense. Thanks.

You cannot use splitters, but you may or may not be able to use your existing wire plant. I used my 30 year old RG56 plant successfully with DirecTV for 8 years until I had an opportunity to replace it with the recommended RG6.

Thanks, JeffBowser. Good to hear that you had success with using old coax. But as mtrunz noted, today's digital coax is a superior product to what was used 20-plus years ago. So while I might be able to make it work, I'm not certain that re-using the old coax makes sense in my situation. Especially since I don't know how the cable was run in the house.

Unless someone has some specific suggestions, I will probably go ahead and install the new coax from the dish. Thanks for the help.

Thanks for the response, mtrunz. D* is the abbreviation often used in this forum for DirecTV. I switched to DirecTV last fall and currently have an HR21 HD-DVR for the STB. While I kept my cable modem for high speed internet service, I no longer have a cable box because I no longer subscribe to cable TV through the local provider, Cox.

What I was hoping to do is avoid installing another new coax from the dish on the roof for a second STB. Your point about the age of the existing in-wall coax cable compared to that used today makes sense. Thanks.

Do you have the SWM (single wire multiswitch) for your setup? I just had D* installed 3 weeks ago, and I used all my house's existing inside coax (some of which was RG59 and couldn't be replaced without tearing out a wall and slab). All I had to do was remove a splitter that was in the basement and run a piece of coax to extend (with a barrel connector) the extra output coax from that splitter to the outside location where the coax entered the house. From the dish there is just one coax running to the SWM mounted on the outside of the house. It is a powered splitter basically that lets you run 4 (I think) feeds to separate rooms of the house. I have 4 HD boxes throughout the house each able to watch whatever they want whenever they want. FWIW, the tv connected to the RG59 is a 60" Pioneer plasma, and there is no signal degradation. D* gives us great PQ.

Do you have the SWM (single wire multiswitch) for your setup? I just had D* installed 3 weeks ago, and I used all my house's existing inside coax (some of which was RG59 and couldn't be replaced without tearing out a wall and slab). All I had to do was remove a splitter that was in the basement and run a piece of coax to extend (with a barrel connector) the extra output coax from that splitter to the outside location where the coax entered the house. From the dish there is just one coax running to the SWM mounted on the outside of the house. It is a powered splitter basically that lets you run 4 (I think) feeds to separate rooms of the house. I have 4 HD boxes throughout the house each able to watch whatever they want whenever they want. FWIW, the tv connected to the RG59 is a 60" Pioneer plasma, and there is no signal degradation. D* gives us great PQ.

Thanks for the information. It's encouraging that you were able to use existing RG59 without any signal degradation, that answers one of my questions. But there are some key differences between our situations. I do not have SWM or any splitters. They ran two coax cables directly from the dish to the HR21 HD-DVR in the living room, one for each tuner, and they enter the house directly behind the TV in a new opening they drilled in the wall. I had asked them to use a single coax with SWM, and they did that first but were unable to get the HR21 to work properly. So they went back on the roof and ran a second coax alongside the first one.

Very few homes in Phoenix have basements, and mine is no exception. No attic, either. I have looked for where the cable TV coax enters the home and connections are made for distribution to the different rooms, but to no avail. It is all hidden from view, and I simply have no idea how the cable was run when the house was built. Perhaps all were installed as "home runs" back to the Cox cable box near the street. I would have to open up walls to try to find it, in my case navigating without a map because there is no basement or attic where the cable runs could be seen and accessed. That just isn't realistic.

In my case, it would only work if I could use the right equipment to split one of the coax cables in the house just before it connects to the HR21, and connect it to the cable wall box behind the TV. And then that signal would be available at all of the other cable TV wall boxes in the house. I don't know if making the connection to the cable TV wall box in one room would automatically make the D* signal available throughout the house. If so, then I could simply connect the second HD-DVR to the cable wall box in the other room and activate the second HD-DVR.

If that isn't possible or is more trouble than it's worth, I will just have to install a new, separate coax from the dish directly to the second room and drill another hole in the outside wall.

Thanks for help!

Mark brings up the SWM - if you can get a SWM installation, it is designed to use older wires and allow splitting (although only with DirecTV SWM splitters. Cant' argue new cable, though. I eventually ran new cable in my house, but not because it is "better" (this is a digital signal we are talking about), but because I was asking the same cable to also carry voltage and analog signals.

Jumping in a little late here, but if MTRUNZ wants to receive D* HD he will need to upgrade his dish to a Slimline dish. I have been informed by D* and members of this forum that D* HD will only be MPEG-4 in the near future and a Slimline dish and H20 or later receiver is required. Although the H20 can process MEPG-4, I do not think that a Phase 3 dish will work. (Please correct me , if I am wrong about this.) MTRUNZ is correct that the new D* receivers do not have OTA tuners and he will need to purchase a used H20 to use a D* receiver for OTA. He may want to do a one time purchase of a CECB and lease a receiver from D*. When he gets his new TV with a built in digital tuner he can then swap out his CECB and connect directly to his new TV.