...I do miss the way it jumped back when hitting "play" after a "FF". But, I think that I prefer almost all other UI aspects of the H20 vs. the H10. I think you mean the HR20. The H20 is a receiver only, not a DVR.

Can anyone help me with these questions?


1. Is there a slow button?
2. Can you skip ahead 15 min like before? - Isn't there a trick for this?
3. Can you get to the beginning of a program with any particular button(s)
4. Are the colors just for navigating? Do they do anything else?
5. Is there an equivalent to Thumbs Up or Down?

Thanks.

Can anyone help me with these questions?
1. Is there a slow button?
2. Can you skip ahead 15 min like before? - Isn't there a trick for this?
3. Can you get to the beginning of a program with any particular button(s)
4. Are the colors just for navigating? Do they do anything else?
5. Is there an equivalent to Thumbs Up or Down?
Thanks.
Maybe others can post more for you but:
1- no,
2 & 3 I think by holding down the FF or RR button for a while.
4- no, just whats in that window's menu.
5- ????

Another Window Will Open Tonight From 11p-1:30a To Get Ota Enabled On The Hr20.

You Can Force Your Reciever To Update A New Test Version.
0x10b This Will Enable Ota If You Still Have 0xfa, This Is Only A Beta Version So Its Download At Your Own Risk.

If You Dont Like It Force Another Update And It Will Revert Back To Oxfa.

To Force Update Reset Reciever, Once Welcome Screen Comes Up Press 02468 And It Will Load.
I tried that, but it says it is downloading (00FA) not 0x10b.

You were too late for the download, check the post date, it was last week....

Can anyone help me with these questions?


1. Is there a slow button?
2. Can you skip ahead 15 min like before? - Isn't there a trick for this?
3. Can you get to the beginning of a program with any particular button(s)
4. Are the colors just for navigating? Do they do anything else?
5. Is there an equivalent to Thumbs Up or Down?

Thanks.
1. Hold the Play button down about 3 seconds
2. Hold the FF button down about 3 seconds
3. Hold the replay button down about 3 seconds
4. Is pushing the yellow button to get from the Playlist to the Todo list navigating?
5. No. The HR20 does not support suggestions.

I have a large old antenna on top of my chimney from eons (and owners) ago. Ironic how these could come in handy again.

I have installation scheduled to upgrade to the HR20 and was wondering - can this OTA antenna be routed to the multiswitch and then the OTA signal somehow fed to to the HR20? I don't want to have to run a third line to my existing setup and it would be nice if this antenna could feed other TVs as well. My other alternative would probably be to look for an indoor antenna for OTA feeds.

The new satellite bands cannot coexist with OTA on the same cable until after the B Band converter(BBC) that upwardly converts the lowest satellite frequency range. The Zinwell WB68 multiswitch needed for more than 4 up to 8 output connections cannot therefore have an antenna input. The BBC normally connected to the receiver can be moved to the multiswitch output or at least higher up the coax if a multiswitch is not used as long as the BBC's direction is not reversed and it is mounted indoors. A diplexer to combine and another to separate OTA and SAT signals can be used as long as both are between the BBC and the receiver.

Antennas can deteriorate over time so it's a good idea to temporarily hook up the antenna through a window or something to check its performance before going through the work of diplexing.

...I have installation scheduled to upgrade to the HR20 and was wondering - can this OTA antenna be routed to the multiswitch and then the OTA signal somehow fed to to the HR20?Not recommended.

It's best to run a (brand new) RG6 coax from the antenna, then split it off to multiple TVs. With multiple TVs, you'll likely need amplification before the signal enters the house. A preamp (http://www.warrenelectronics.com/antennas/7777.htm) mounted on the antenna mast is the best type of amplifier. Do not buy a cheap distribution amp from walmart, etc. They may introduce too much noise into the signal that can kill OTA digital reception.

If the antenna is old and corroded, it would be wise to replace it.

If you're not too far from the transmitters and don't have multipath problems, you may be able to get buy with an indoor/set top antenna. But from early reports, it appears that the HR20 may need a good outdoor antenna to work well for OTA.

Avoid any antennas sold uner the TERK brand. They are overpriced underperformers in most cases, and pushed by stores mainly due to their high markup.

I forced the latest software for my HR 20. And was able to add all the locals to my guide.

With the off air antenna on my old receiver/DVR I used to get all the locals

Now with the HR20 only get channel 3.1 and 3.2 the other locals keep searching for antenna signal for signal error 771.

In signal strength (or something like that) get not acquired. Plus the signal is about 30% for 3.1 and 3.2.

My question is the off air tuner any good for the HR 20.

OR

do I need to reset everything and see what happens.

I forced the latest software for my HR 20. And was able to add all the locals to my guide.
With the off air antenna on my old receiver/DVR I used to get all the locals
Now with the HR20 only get channel 3.1 and 3.2 the other locals keep searching for antenna signal for signal error 771.
In signal strength (or something like that) get not acquired. Plus the signal is about 30% for 3.1 and 3.2.

My question is the off air tuner any good for the HR 20.
OR
do I need to reset everything and see what happens.
Now that you're in the right place....
From my testing with weak signals, the HR-20 doesn't have the most sensitive OTA tuner. D* seemed to have used the one out of their H20-100 & not the better one from the H20-600. So if you can't improve your signal strength [antenna pointing, larger antenna, pre-amp, etc.] you will have problems with OTA channels that don't come in strong. It's too bad [for us] that the tuner isn't as good as what comes with most HD TVs these days.

Now that you're in the right place....
From my testing with weak signals, the HR-20 doesn't have the most sensitive OTA tuner. D* seemed to have used the one out of their H20-100 & not the better one from the H20-600. So if you can't improve your signal strength [antenna pointing, larger antenna, pre-amp, etc.] you will have problems with OTA channels that don't come in strong. It's too bad [for us] that the tuner isn't as good as what comes with most HD TVs these days.

Remember also that the HR20 has two tuners and the signal is split so you get less than 50% on each tuner, so comparing it with a tuner that is seeing 100% of the OTA signal is not an accurate comparison. Compared to the HR10, which also splits the antenna feed, the HR20 is an excellent performer, much better than the HR10.. If your signal is marginal you need a preamp at your antenna to overcome the cable and splitting losses.

I have set my HR20 for a few time shift recordings at once.
Is there any way to see them all in a menu before they are actually recorded on the hard drive?

What is the latest on OTA. Wasn't it supposed to be enabled in Dec?

Remember also that the HR20 has two tuners and the signal is split so you get less than 50% on each tuner, so comparing it with a tuner that is seeing 100% of the OTA signal is not an accurate comparison. Compared to the HR10, which also splits the antenna feed, the HR20 is an excellent performer, much better than the HR10.. If your signal is marginal you need a preamp at your antenna to overcome the cable and splitting losses.
I had hoped you had read my reply to your posting on the DBS forum. I ran the split signal to the HR-20 AND the other to a four-way splitter [-6dB] with everything on the 4-way having better reception. For me, this shoots down your 50% power theory, as the "good" reception was on tuners with only 50% of the power each of the HR-20 tuners [cards] had internally.
While what you've said is true, the HR-20 has a poor OTA tuner, compared to almost anything currently offered [H20-600, Sony HDTV, 5th gen HD tuner in my PC, etc.] by my tests.

What is the latest on OTA. Wasn't it supposed to be enabled in Dec?
OTA is out in beta release only. Hopefully early next year it will go national.
Don't count on the tuner getting weak OTA signals, as it doesn't. If you can improve your antenna enough so they are all strong signals, then it works.

Update: from reliable sources the new update will go national soon.

Thanks VOS.

I have two HR20's. Both of them Act very strange on the 2nd Tuner. The signal jumps up and down on the 101 Sat in the upper transponders. Channels on those transponders are pixelated with audio dropouts. Its only the 2nd tuner and both HR20's do it. My HR10-250 HDTIVO does not do it, nor my SD TIVO or my R15. I can move the HR20 to any any connection on the Multiswitch and they still do it so I know its not wiring, and my other receivers are fine.

I have not received the 5 LNB dish yet (Still have 3 LNB). Could it be the dish or my 4x8 Multiswitch? If so why is it not affecting all the receivers? I have tried both with the little inline boxes that the HR20 uses on and off and it makes no difference. D* sent me a replacement for one of my HR20s when I called Tech support and it does the same thing! I have had D* for 11 years and am very tech savy and truly understand most of this stuff but this has one me stumped?

Tech is coming on Thursday to install 5 LNB dish and new Multiswitch but from my experience I usually know more than they do. Anyone elese seen this?

Thanks for your help!

I have two HR20's. Both of them Act very strange on the 2nd Tuner. D* sent me a replacement for one of my HR20s when I called Tech support and it does the same thing! I have had D* for 11 years and am very tech savy and truly understand most of this stuff but this has one me stumped?
Tech is coming on Thursday to install 5 LNB dish and new Multiswitch but from my experience I usually know more than they do. Anyone elese seen this?
Thanks for your help!
I admire your trouble shooting skill(s) as you've got a "good handle" on it. I can only think you're seeing some incompatibility with the 3LNB dish. I guess you will have to wait until the 5LNB & wideband multi-switch installation to proceed. Please let us know...

It looks as if D* has released 010b nationally last night to the west coast. You should see an auto download over the next few days. If you want it sooner, a forced download should work now. I can't confirm this myself because I'm already running 010b. What we've learned with OTA testing is the HR-20 doesn't have the most sensitive OTA tuner, so you may find your H20-600 or TV will receive some channels that the HR-20 won't because they are weak signals. Re-pointing your antenna, getting a bigger one, or adding a preamp may improve this for you, but that's about all you can do, as the HR-20 just doesn't work [as well as others] for picking up weak signals.

I got two H20-600's. Warm but stable, lots of air flow ya know! :):) Cant wait to see how the HR20 works with OTA's

I got two H20-600's. Warm but stable, lots of air flow ya know! :):) Cant wait to see how the HR20 works with OTA's
If they were the -100, you would be happy, but if you actually need the sensitivity of the -600, you will be dissatisfied. IMO as I was.

If they were the -100, you would be happy, but if you actually need the sensitivity of the -600, you will be dissatisfied. IMO as I was.


Bummer :( I can plug back into the XBR950... It was good w/OTA.

I just tried to force feed the new download but I didnt get it.

I just tried to force feed the new download but I didn't get it.
West coast got it last night, and not just the beta testers like a couple of weeks ago.
Thanks for trying to force it, now we know it can't, BUT you will see the automatic download very soon. D* is staggering the release just to keep some kind of handle on the calls to the call center. You can imagine their load with OTA & networking questions.

West coast got it last night, and not just the beta testers like a couple of weeks ago.
Thanks for trying to force it, now we know it can't, BUT you will see the automatic download very soon. D* is staggering the release just to keep some kind of handle on the calls to the call center. You can imagine their load with OTA & networking questions.

Yeah I bet the amount of calls they're getting. I'm glad I come here for all my info. :)

Yeah I bet the amount of calls they're getting. I'm glad I come here for all my info. :)
If you really want "the scoop" here is where there are some people "in the know":

http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=73207

This was where the beta download notice was!

If you really want "the scoop" here is where there are some people "in the know":

http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=73207

This was where the beta download notice was!

Yup! I have seen that. AVS is my main site.

I'm 50 miles north of Boston Last town in Massachusetts on the ocean before you enter NH (2 miles away) WFXT(Fox-25) is the weakest signal because of some FCC issue with a station from Canada.. Go figure. When the new software is installed channel 25 will be the test. It comes via satellite locals through D* but I want to check signal strenth with OTA (HR20) :)

Yup! I have seen that. AVS is my main site.

I'm 50 miles north of Boston Last town in Massachusetts on the ocean before you enter NH (2 miles away) WFXT(Fox-25) is the weakest signal because of some FCC issue with a station from Canada.. Go figure. When the new software is installed channel 25 will be the test. It comes via satellite locals through D* but I want to check signal strenth with OTA (HR20) :)
I remember a few cold winters stationed at Pease AFB.
With MPEG-4 you might not need to go through the antenna hassle.

I remember a few cold winters stationed at Pease AFB.
With MPEG-4 you might not need to go through the antenna hassle.

I hope you found a way to keep warm! ;)

10B is national tonight! Everyone should finish getting it tonight.
Its available now by force upgrade, or waiting for automatic update tonight.

If they were the -100, you would be happy, but if you actually need the sensitivity of the -600, you will be dissatisfied. IMO as I was.

I was surprised. The HR 20 seems to do better on the three OTA versions of channel 11(PBS in Chicago) than did the old HD Tivo. Indeed, seems as good as the H 20. So with OTA, I can now get everything digital in Chicago, some via satellite, CBS and ABC, some both, NBC and Fox and the rest, OTA. :)

Now if it would only record in a reliable fashion..... :rolleyes:

I was surprised. The HR 20 seems to do better on the three OTA versions of channel 11(PBS in Chicago) than did the old HD Tivo. Indeed, seems as good as the H 20. So with OTA, I can now get everything digital in Chicago, some via satellite, CBS and ABC, some both, NBC and Fox and the rest, OTA. :)

Now if it would only record in a reliable fashion..... :rolleyes:

The latest software is improved the reliability considerably.

I was surprised. The HR 20 seems to do better on the three OTA versions of channel 11(PBS in Chicago) than did the old HD Tivo. Indeed, seems as good as the H 20. So with OTA, I can now get everything digital in Chicago, some via satellite, CBS and ABC, some both, NBC and Fox and the rest, OTA. :)
Now if it would only record in a reliable fashion..... :rolleyes:
It seems to works as well as the H20-100, which is fine with strong signals, but if you're in a fringe area with less than STRONG signals, it falls short of what the H20-600 or most new TVs can receive. I'm glad you are in a strong area.

The latest software is improved the reliability considerably.

They did promise me that a few weeks ago when I called to describe some problems. I would rather not do a complete reset at the moment as there are a few things I want to watch that I would lose.

Currently I have lots of OTA multipath problems with my HR10-250, especially when the trees have all their leaves. The transmitting antennas are all 20 miles away, but hidden by a nearby hill (as well as by the trees). I dunno whether I want to move (down) to the HR20.

Question: Does the HR10 have the latest OTA-tuner technology for defeating multipath? Put another way, do the H20-100 and H20-600 differ in their handling of multipath?

Question: Put another way, do the H20-100 and H20-600 differ in their handling of multipath?
By a bunch. The -600 does a very good job & the -100 doesn't. The HR20-700 uses the -100 tuner, so...

Anyone know of a means to check the status of an on order HR20? I called retention about 3-4 weeks ago to get one and they directed me to a web site to sign up for the HR20. About a week ago, I called the regular DTV number to check on the status and at least confirm they had me listed as having one on order. Well the rep couldn't give me any information except to call the special HDDVR 800 number. That number only let's you enter the phone number of your DTV account to sign up for the HR20. So, 3+ weeks out and I have no idea if I'm really on the HR20 list. Thoughts?

Anyone know of a means to check the status of an on order HR20? I called retention about 3-4 weeks ago to get one and they directed me to a web site to sign up for the HR20. About a week ago, I called the regular DTV number to check on the status and at least confirm they had me listed as having one on order. Well the rep couldn't give me any information except to call the special HDDVR 800 number. That number only let's you enter the phone number of your DTV account to sign up for the HR20. So, 3+ weeks out and I have no idea if I'm really on the HR20 list. Thoughts?
Not much.
Try playing CSR roulette [another call].
Have them move you to a supervisor.
Go to a "big box" store [CC or BB] and buy one.

A posting suggested D* had a call center in India. I can't confirm that, but can confirm they have one in the Philippines from today's call.

I got the new software. Signal for FOX 25 is at 63 to 65% Not bad. How low would it get before I loose the pic? Under 50%, 40%?

I got the new software. Signal for FOX 25 is at 63 to 65% Not bad. How low would it get before I loose the pic? Under 50%, 40%?
That's about right. What you're looking at isn't "power" but bit error [rate], so problems with multipath will give you more trouble than "low power". If the reading is low [50%] but stable, you're better off than 60+% and bouncing.

That's about right. What you're looking at isn't "power" but bit error [rate], so problems with multipath will give you more trouble than "low power". If the reading is low [50%] but stable, you're better off than 60+% and bouncing.


Ok all the other Boston market stations are high 90's to 100% WGHBDT is 100, WCVB is 100 :)

Anyone know of a means to check the status of an on order HR20? I called retention about 3-4 weeks ago to get one and they directed me to a web site to sign up for the HR20. About a week ago, I called the regular DTV number to check on the status and at least confirm they had me listed as having one on order. Well the rep couldn't give me any information except to call the special HDDVR 800 number. That number only let's you enter the phone number of your DTV account to sign up for the HR20. So, 3+ weeks out and I have no idea if I'm really on the HR20 list. Thoughts?

Well guess what. Got home tonight and had a voice message from D* that my HR20 was available and to call for an installation appointment. I'm scheduled for Jan 6th. Now, let's hope they don't cancel me before then.

Anyone know of a means to check the status of an on order HR20? I called retention about 3-4 weeks ago to get one and they directed me to a web site to sign up for the HR20. About a week ago, I called the regular DTV number to check on the status and at least confirm they had me listed as having one on order. Well the rep couldn't give me any information except to call the special HDDVR 800 number. That number only let's you enter the phone number of your DTV account to sign up for the HR20. So, 3+ weeks out and I have no idea if I'm really on the HR20 list. Thoughts?

I called the number today and there was a message stating that they had the HR20 in stock and to just call a certain number to schedule installation. No other message or options. Give it a call today.

Well guess what. Got home tonight and had a voice message from D* that my HR20 was available and to call for an installation appointment. I'm scheduled for Jan 6th. Now, let's hope they don't cancel me before then.
score one. Maybe after the holidays, they can be on time.

The new software has a network connection in the setup. I had an ethernet cable connected already to it. When I did the setup for the network it accuired an IP address from my LinkSys Router. :) Now D* will know what I'm recording and tell big brother!@ I dont care! ;)

The new software has a network connection in the setup. I had an ethernet cable connected already to it. When I did the setup for the network it acquired an IP address from my LinkSys Router. :) Now D* will know what I'm recording and tell big brother!@ I don't care! ;)
of course.
Right now it only will show [on your TV] music & photos from a computer.
If you happen to have a computer connected to your TV, then this is kind of useless. The "copyright boys" will never let you have any programs out of the box.

I had hoped you had read my reply to your posting on the DBS forum. I ran the split signal to the HR-20 AND the other to a four-way splitter [-6dB] with everything on the 4-way having better reception. For me, this shoots down your 50% power theory, as the "good" reception was on tuners with only 50% of the power each of the HR-20 tuners [cards] had internally.
While what you've said is true, the HR-20 has a poor OTA tuner, compared to almost anything currently offered [H20-600, Sony HDTV, 5th gen HD tuner in my PC, etc.] by my tests.

Sorry, I wasn't saying that the HR20 was as good as the H20. I was just pointing out that MOST people just compare the HR20 with the H20 without taking the time, as you did, to set up a more realistic test environment (in fact in your case, one which overcompensated for the split). I saw a post from someone suggesting that the splitter in the HR20 was not very good, and that this might be one of the reasons why the performance, while being better then the HR10, does not equal most 5th generation tuners. Maybe someone will investigate this, when they are willing to open up the HR20 box.
For me here in Dallas, at 40 miles from the antenna "farm", even the HR10 gets all my digital stations using a CM4228, so I don't have any marginal stations to test with....

In 6 years of HD viewing, I have never had a problem with WBBM-DT 2-1 (CBS) on any tuner or DVR until I got the OTA download on my HR20 yesterday. Very disappointing. I also saw some pixellating on a recording from 32-1 tonight. This is unprecedented here.
It appears that Pace really cheaped out on the OTA tuners in the HR20.

In 6 years of HD viewing, I have never had a problem with WBBM-DT 2-1 (CBS) on any tuner or DVR until I got the OTA download on my HR20 yesterday. That's a database error, not a tuner insensitivity. Notice 26-3 is just plain missing. There is a thread on DBSTalk about the missing channels in the HR20 database.

This is weird. Yesterday I ran through the setup for OTA. Once I was finished, the locals I got in HD wouldn't come in - I got the "Searching for signal" error, just on those channels. All my other channels came in fine. Coincidence? I'd rather keep both the OTA channels and SAT HDs on the receiver.

What signal strength were you seeing on those channels??

I recieved the update but the ota channels aren't showing up on my guide i.e 3-1,10-1 etc. anything else I should be doing?

I bought my H10 (tivo) from Costco a few months ago. Will I be able to qualify for the upgrade? I can always return the box to Costco but I dont know what will happen when I go and try to get the new 20 box from DTV. Anyone do this already?

Nick

I saw a post from someone suggesting that the splitter in the HR20 was not very good, and that this might be one of the reasons why the performance, Maybe someone will investigate this, when they are willing to open up the HR20 box.
Thanks, I looked at Earl's photo of the tuners, and I'm not sure how they split. The cables look to daisy chain to the tuners, but the bulkhead connector also looks to have some "matching", so I really can't be sure. I would open mine up, but I know it won't help my problem [masked by 300' of mountain]. I really think the HR uses the tuner from the H20-100, which has proven to be not as good as the H20-600 [for multi-path rejection I think].
I'm sure the HR20 is better than some, but not as good as others in weak signal areas.
All of this is more for the questions of "How come my TV gets... and the HR-20 only gets...".
Thanks again for your input as I always like to learn [and in doing so, I test it].

Software was downloaded yesterday at 4:00am. Showed antenna set up enabled.
Set it up and WOW. All locals in HD showed up. Very nice and I am happy.
Marry Christmas to all of you too.

I recieved the update but the ota channels aren't showing up on my guide i.e 3-1,10-1 etc. anything else I should be doing?


Check your favorites (custom) channels

Check your favorites (custom) channels

I did that and still no ota hd channels.

I did that and still no OTA HD channels.
Dumb question: did you go into setup and setup your OTA channels?

I did that and still no ota hd channels.
Did you scan for local channnels?

I would also like a 30 second skip, but you know we've become too spoiled when we ask questions like that. How could we possibly watch football without a 30 second skip?? I'm not trying to be a smart alec, but I did it for about 30 years until I got my first DVR....

Yea, and your great grand pappy walked to work for 30 years before he got his first car.

Not an ego post but imagine my surprise. I have 2 Hr20's and kept one HD Tivo DVR. That one died, and as I have the replacement insurance I called for a replacement. Much to my surprise, what arrived was a new HR20.
Got the others for free and they didn't charge me for this one
Didn't make up for my ex having an affair with a male model, but it did come close

Did you scan for local channnels?

...plus, what type of antenna are you using??

I'm getting them now and I did have to scan for the locals :D however it doesn't work too good with my indoor amplified terk ant.

I'm getting them now and I did have to scan for the locals :D however it doesn't work too good with my indoor amplified terk ant.
The HR-20 needs to get a strong signal to work well. You may need to get a bigger antenna to get all of the channels in your area.

I just think it's awesome that I can now record the OTA HD channels. I can live with the big 4 as my HD locals with D*, but it was killing me not to have the WB/CW in HD. I have two towns that I can recieve signal from, but can only get the WB/CW from a direction where nothing else comes from. So now, I can record all the shows that I normally watch in HD. ABC, NBC, CBS, and Fox from D* and CW from OTA. Plus, I can still get that weather channel that shows the radar. If I got a better antenna I bet I could pick up more, but I got a pretty good picture with D* on the locals so.....eh.

I was watching something the other night that had been recorded. All of a sudden it went into screensaver mode. There was still sound, but I had to hit play to get the picture back. It did this several times. I watched something else last night and all of a sudden the picture went to black, and then once I hit play, it came back again. :confused:

I was watching something the other night that had been recorded. All of a sudden it went into screensaver mode. There was still sound, but I had to hit play to get the picture back. It did this several times. I watched something else last night and all of a sudden the picture went to black, and then once I hit play, it came back again. :confused:

weird. I'd go with the "reset everything" option to see if that clears it up. If not, you may have a bad box.

2. Can you skip ahead 15 min like before? - Isn't there a trick for this?




2. Hold the FF button down about 3 seconds


#2. For me holding the FF button down for 3 seconds skips ahead 30 minutes. I dont if this is the same for all but wanted to put it out there for any who might care.

Is the consensus here that buying a TERK indoor HDTV antenna is not going to be satisfactory? Is this just opinion? or Does TERK not perform well with the HR20?

Thanx to all with the knowledge to share

Is the consensus here that buying a TERK indoor HDTV antenna is not going to be satisfactory? Is this just opinion? or Does TERK not perform well with the HR20?
Thanx to all with the knowledge to share
I can't say that TERK makes a poor product, but [there is always one] the HR-20 needs a strong OTA signal, so if you're not close to the broadcast tower, I would look to get a larger antenna than what would be "normal".

Is 5-10 miles a really good range? I'm planning on getting a decent indoor/outdoor antenna but putting it in the attic.

Is 5-10 miles a really good range? I'm planning on getting a decent indoor/outdoor antenna but putting it in the attic.

Possibly. A lot depends upon the terrain. If you are in an area that is prone to multipath reflections, you will need a good directional antenna. If you are TOO close, you can overload the tuners (but you can buy attenuators at places like Radio Shack).

Finally, there is the transmission pattern of the station. In some cases the signal is not radiated equally in all directions. This may be for a number of reasons, such as not interfering with the transmission of another station. OTA can be hit or miss.

When you get it, it is great because it is an uncompressed signal and unless the station is broadcasting a subchannel or two, or is underpowered, it is the the best you can get via broadcast.

why does this damn thing keep on freezing up. It happens almost once every 2 weeks when i try to play something on my recorded list.

why does this damn thing keep on freezing up. It happens almost once every 2 weeks when i try to play something on my recorded list.
It shouldn't. You may need to clean the drive by reformatting it.

It shouldn't. You may need to clean the drive by reformatting it.

how do i do this?

how do i do this?
Two ways, but both will lose all of your recordings.
1- Go into setup and then look for reset. Then pick "reset everything". This will clear everything but your software.
2 On the box press the down arrow & the record button [same time]. It should be in your owners manual. I can't remember if you need to be at the "Welcome to DirecTV" screen or not [as I do the reset everything from the setup menu].

how often do i need to do this?

how often do i need to do this?
I would say only when you start to have problems with the unit.
I've only had mine for a couple of months. I "reset everything" to clear it out after a [bad] software update & it's been working fairly well since. No lockups anymore. I have had several programs not record [when I hit play, a black screen would show & RR/FF would work], but no more freezes.
I think it's a good idea after a software update to unplug the unit for 5-10 min [to give it a fresh start] also.

Tomorrow is my day for the installation of the HR20 and new dish.
Just to confirm a few things I read in these threads, the latest version should be ox10b (with ota activated) or it may have version oxfa.
The TV is a Sammy hls5688, the HR20 should be set at Native Off 1080i. Please let me know if this is incorrect.

Also, is it typical to tip the installer? I was thinking about slipping him a 20. Before or after installation?!

Tomorrow is my day for the installation of the HR20 and new dish.
Just to confirm a few things I read in these threads, the latest version should be ox10b (with OTA activated) or it may have version oxfa.
The TV is a Sammy hls5688, the HR20 should be set at Native Off 1080i. Please let me know if this is incorrect.
Also, is it typical to tip the installer? I was thinking about slipping him a 20. Before or after installation?!
010b will need to be downloaded since the unit will have an older software. The "tip" would depend on you. I'm a cheap SOB & my installers haven't been worth it. You may have a good one that needs to do "extra" for you to have thing just the way you want them. A "standard" install doesn't require it. If you Sammy has 1080, then that's the setting & yes, native off.

... OTA can be hit or miss.

When you get it, it is great because it is an uncompressed signal and unless the station is broadcasting a subchannel or two, or is underpowered, it is the the best you can get via broadcast.
This statement could cause some confusion. ATSC/digital broadcast TV standards call for MPEG-2 compression of raw diigtal TV signals to 19.2 Mbps or less. I don't recall the raw data rate, but it is far greater than the resulting MPEG-2 ATSC-standard-driven rate.

I suspect that you actually meant that no FURTHER compression is applied to the original OTA broadcast signal. Transcoding to MPEG-4 and/or further compression to fit available transport bandwidth (over cable or satellite) comes with the risk of noticable artifacts, depending somewhat on the size and quality of the display.

I hope I have not added to any confusion here.

This statement could cause some confusion. ATSC/digital broadcast TV standards call for MPEG-2 compression of raw diigtal TV signals to 19.2 Mbps or less. I don't recall the raw data rate, but it is far greater than the resulting MPEG-2 ATSC-standard-driven rate.

I suspect that you actually meant that no FURTHER compression is applied to the original OTA broadcast signal. Transcoding to MPEG-4 and/or further compression to fit available transport bandwidth (over cable or satellite) comes with the risk of noticable artifacts, depending somewhat on the size and quality of the display.

I hope I have not added to any confusion here.

That's probably a better clarification.

What I was going for was, of the various ways a broadcast of say an NBC HD series can get into one's home, typically OTA would be that. All other methods such as cable or satellite have the potential of degrading the retransmitted signal due to additional compression or other signal modifications.

If we don't want one of the newer D* DVR's, but want a HR10-250, what's the chance that D* would give us one for a new customer?

I'm an existing customer with two D*Tivo's (one HD one not) and love them TiVo's.. My parents have a crappy Motorola Moxi box on the Charter network (in central-west Oregon) and they've got no HD signals yet (with no ETA) and this box has been replaced twice already in the last month and is ready for the next one as it resets itself (if it doesn't get outright stuck) on a regular basis.

My parents are mulling over switching to D*, but I'd like to get them a decent DVR such as the HR10-250 and would not feel comfortable with unleashing them on a DVR I've never seen nor used == I've told them many good things about the Tivo's and would prefer to get one of those without needing to fork over $600+ dollars to put that S3 Tivo on the Charter network (assuming they'll install a couple of cablecards).. Hmm.. Perhaps I'm out of options? Comments?

With the HD channels moving to MPEG4 decoding and Ka band carriage after the new satellites go up in 2007, the HR10 would have very limited usefulness as it cannot receive or decode those signals. It would be limited to satellite SD and OTA HD after the switch.

Tomorrow is my day for the installation of the HR20 and new dish.
Just to confirm a few things I read in these threads, the latest version should be ox10b (with ota activated) or it may have version oxfa.
The TV is a Sammy hls5688, the HR20 should be set at Native Off 1080i. Please let me know if this is incorrect.

Also, is it typical to tip the installer? I was thinking about slipping him a 20. Before or after installation?!

I'm no expert on this matter BUT I do own a Samsung 5687 and have a HR-20. I've researched the NATIVE on or OFF issue over and over. I've tried it every way possible and I've come to the conclusion that the HR20 combined with my Sam hls5687 1080 that the best setting is NATIVE ON with 720 and 1080 resolutions selected. No question in mind mind this is the way to go for me.

For a great explanation of Native on or off and how I've come to this conclusion read this thread at DBStalk:
http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=74501

Oh yes......I'm one that always tips. I did give my installer $20 bucks right after he did a great job installing the dish and before he started setting up the HR20. I think it was worth the tip because it showed him that I had confidence in him to do his very best and he did. You can't go wrong with the tip. imo

For the past few years, I've had a pretty good experience with the HR10-250, but recently, there've been some wierd issues going on... missed recordings, unable to download data, etc. A couple of months ago, it started having an intermittent issue with receiving the HD feeds (ESPN, HDNet, TNTHD, UHD, etc.) on one of the tuners. Because it wasn't doing it when the D* service guy came out, nothing was done. But, the problem continued, so another service guy came out on Thursday and luckily was able to witness the issue. He felt it was a "bad box" rather than a cabling, multiswitch issue from my 3LNB dish. So, D* decided (since I have the plan where they warranty my system against failure), to ship me a new DVR. The HR-20 arrived yesterday and I am wondering if I am making a mistake by installing it and sending the HR-10 back to D*.

Here are my questions.

1) I read where the HR-20 doesn't get off the air. Has that issue been solved? I get my locals off the air.
2) How stable is this unit? I've seen bad reviews of it and wonder if I would be jumping from the frying pan into the fire.
3) How good is the OTA tuner? How does it compare to the one in the HR10-250? Can I record two shows OTA, while watching something previously recorded?

Any info is appreciated before I take the plunge.

Here are my questions.
1) I read where the HR-20 doesn't get off the air. Has that issue been solved? I get my locals off the air.
2) How stable is this unit? I've seen bad reviews of it and wonder if I would be jumping from the frying pan into the fire.
3) How good is the OTA tuner? How does it compare to the one in the HR10-250? Can I record two shows OTA, while watching something previously recorded?
1) The latest software activated the OTA.
2) Hard to say. I've had a very good experience with mine. Some haven't. Remember though that the postings are mostly from those who do have a problem, so you won't hear as many from those [like me] that don't.
3) The OTA tuners do need a good [strong] signal. Their about as good as the H20-100 & not as good as the H20-600, if this helps. I don't have a HR10-250 to compare. Part 2- you can record two & watch a recorded program.

1) The latest software activated the OTA.
2) Hard to say. I've had a very good experience with mine. Some haven't. Remember though that the postings are mostly from those who do have a problem, so you won't hear as many from those [like me] that don't.
3) The OTA tuners do need a good [strong] signal. Their about as good as the H20-100 & not as good as the H20-600, if this helps. I don't have a HR10-250 to compare. Part 2- you can record two & watch a recorded program.

Thanks for the quick response. I'll probably give it a shot tomorrow. Until I ship the old one back to them, I can probably fall back to it.

Is watching a show OTA and recording 2 shows an option now? Or watching a show thru one of the 2 tuners and recording on the other and record OTA?

I have two lines and am debating getting an antenna for OTA local viewing if this can be done.

We like a lot of programming that is run concurrently. I am hoping to be able to get 3 shows within the same time slot. Watch one, record 2 for later viewing.

Is watching a show OTA and recording 2 shows an option now? Or watching a show thru one of the 2 tuners and recording on the other and record OTA?

I have two lines and am debating getting an antenna for OTA local viewing if this can be done.

We like a lot of programming that is run concurrently. I am hoping to be able to get 3 shows within the same time slot. Watch one, record 2 for later viewing.

That is the way I have my HR20 wired. Two lines coming from the attic. One connected to the 5LNB dish and one connected to my attic OTA antenna. I can record one OTA and one satellite channel and watch a third via OTA all simultaneously.

That is the way I have my HR20 wired. Two lines coming from the attic. One connected to the 5LNB dish and one connected to my attic OTA antenna. I can record one OTA and one satellite channel and watch a third via OTA all simultaneously.
You must have a very special HR-20, since the HR-20 can only record/watch TWO programs at the same time. You can record two programs [SAT or OTA] AND watch a RECORDED program all at the same time, but you can't record two of anything AND watch a third. Some mileage may vary, but not this.

That info was in the manual and is incorrect. I did have 3 programs record at once last week but it's not reliable.

I did have 3 programs record at once last week but it's not reliable.
So you're saying you can "record" three?
Before I posted, I setup as mentioned: 1-SAT recording, 1-OTA recording, & then went to view a 2nd OTA channel. The HR-20 popped up asking me which recording to cancel.

With the HD channels moving to MPEG4 decoding and Ka band carriage after the new satellites go up in 2007, the HR10 would have very limited usefulness as it cannot receive or decode those signals. It would be limited to satellite SD and OTA HD after the switch.

So.. you're indicating that any HD content that I'm currently getting with my existing HR10-250 will no longer work sometime next year...? If that's true, I'm going to be rather upset w/ D*. My understanding was that while some newer satellites are using the new MPEG4 encoder and obviously the 10-250 can't do anything with it, but that existing programming would remain for a while before switching from MPEG3 --> MPEG4.. If all of that happens next year, I'd imagine that many existing 10-250 customers will be really annoyed. However, I could be completely wrong!

Nope. Not only can you not read my post, you are wrong again as usual. I can indeed record one OTA channel, record one satellite channel, and watch a third channel OTA, all day, every day. Even right now as a matter of fact. Thanks for allowing me to clarify.
Can I ask you how or what you did?
Before I posted, I went to my HR-20, hit record on discovery, then Fox OTA [two recordings] and then through the guide I went to another OTA channel [NBC] hit select. My HR-20 said two tuners were in use and asked me which one I wanted to stop recording.
For me to be "wrong as usual", I would like you to support how you do what you claim first!

Is this some more of your "hit & run" BS or can you actually give enough support to where someone else can duplicate you "claim", oh master of the...

That info was in the manual and is incorrect. I did have 3 programs record at once last week but it's not reliable.
I know you are privy to more than us "mere mortals" and wonder what software version you're running? 010b is what I have & it does seem to limit my unit to only two active tuners [at one time]. It doesn't matter OTA or SAT for HD signals. Were you recording SD channels?

My understanding was that while some newer satellites are using the new MPEG4 encoder and obviously the 10-250 can't do anything with it, but that existing programming would remain for a while before switching from MPEG3 --> MPEG4.. If all of that happens next year, I'd imagine that many existing 10-250 customers will be really annoyed.
I think the "plan" is for us with the HR-20 to debug the units first, then D* will offer exchange units for those with MPEG-2, that can't make the move to MPEG-4. Since everything is now a lease, you would just be sent a replacement [& a new dish]. Bandwidth is the real "deal" here and D* can add more content if they can move everyone to the MPEG-4.

Too bad, because I REALLY like the TiVo boxes -- the software is just 1st rate and everything else is usually crud from what I've seen so far.. In playing w/ my folks Moxi box, I just can't wrap my head around that software -- it's so unintuitive compared to the Tivo. It doesn't help that the PQ generated by that box also looks like crap even on two separate large LCD sets (Philips & Sony) -- of course, that could be something related to the cable too.

Too bad, because I REALLY like the TiVo boxes -- the software is just 1st rate and everything else is usually crud from what I've seen so far.. In playing w/ my folks Moxi box, I just can't wrap my head around that software -- it's so unintuitive compared to the Tivo. It doesn't help that the PQ generated by that box also looks like crap even on two separate large LCD sets (Philips & Sony) -- of course, that could be something related to the cable too.
I haven't had a Tivo. My Media Center PC does seem to have some nicer features compared to the HR-20. With this said, the HR-20 MPEG-4 [locals] are a real knockout on my Sony 46 XBR2, so I wonder what setting are giving you the "looks like crap" picture? I would guess there is some setting that could improve your PQ.
As to the user interface, you get used to one thing & it's hard to make a change [& like it]. There are a lot of posting on several forums that say each has it's pluses & minuses. The one I liked was the 18 month old granddaughter who can pick up any remote and be happy in an instant. We all get set in our ways...

...With this said, the HR-20 MPEG-4 [locals] are a real knockout on my Sony 46 XBR2, so I wonder what setting are giving you the "looks like crap" picture? I would guess there is some setting that could improve your PQ.


In this case, I suspect the culprit is either the Charter cable system or the Moxi box -- unfortunately they're in an area that appears to have NO HD OTA going for them and as such, they rely upon the signals coming from their cable provider.. The Moxi's menu's look great (all HD looking and whatnot), but the actual 480i programming is extremely grainy with (IMO) oddly colored (washed out) images. I think in their case it might be better to ditch Charter and move to D*.. I've got more homework to do before that happens though.

In this case, I suspect the culprit is either the Charter cable system or the Moxi box -- unfortunately they're in an area that appears to have NO HD OTA going for them and as such, they rely upon the signals coming from their cable provider.. The Moxi's menu's look great (all HD looking and whatnot), but the actual 480i programming is extremely grainy with (IMO) oddly colored (washed out) images. I think in their case it might be better to ditch Charter and move to D*.. I've got more homework to do before that happens though.
I tried my local cable & after D* it just didn't cut it. SD looked like crap, the HD was worse than D* or OTA HD, etc.......

I tried my local cable & after D* it just didn't cut it. SD looked like crap, the HD was worse than D* or OTA HD, etc.......

That's what I'm suspecting as well.. Unfortunately, they've never seen real HD on their new HD capable set (40" Sony LCD they got from Costco) since they've got no good OTA HD or anything else HD.. Once they see real HD, I'm sure they'll be able to easily tell the difference -- I think they're just putting up with what they're getting, but I've got no ideas on when HD is being rolled out in their area and it's painful to watch the current setup with crappy 480i programming. I think as long as the new D* DVR is better than the Moxi they're currently using, they should be OK. I'll continue doing some homework on that.. Thanks for the info!

That's what I'm suspecting as well.. Unfortunately, they've never seen real HD on their new HD capable set (40" Sony LCD they got from Costco) since they've got no good OTA HD or anything else HD.. Once they see real HD, I'm sure they'll be able to easily tell the difference -- I think they're just putting up with what they're getting, but I've got no ideas on when HD is being rolled out in their area and it's painful to watch the current setup with crappy 480i programming. I think as long as the new D* DVR is better than the Moxi they're currently using, they should be OK. I'll continue doing some homework on that.. Thanks for the info!
I alway want to help since HD is really so good.
Maybe in the new year as D* rolls out more local channels with their new SAts, they can truly enjoy what they have.

I know the unit does not have active dual buffers, but are there any plans to add it?

I know this was a hot topic when the box first came out, but I scanned the last 10 pages and have not seen any mention of it.

Thanks for any help..

I've only read several back pages since I was on the forum almost daily in December. I have a tale of two cities (or DVR's)

The first was professionally installed with the new dish and hooked to a 36 inch Sony XBR. No HDMI function (or even cable in box), no ethernet and picture looks great through component. After install, the unit downloaded the latest firmware/software. Still no HDMI or ethernet.

Yesterday, I went to Best Buy and bought a second unit for my home theater. On the box was a yellow dot saying "HDMI" and there was a HDMI cable in the box. Both HDMI (passing through my new Yamaha 2600) and ethernet work fine. Downloaded same version of software as the first unit upon installation. Picture on HDMI through the Yamaha to my Epson 550 sucks. Reverted to component and it was a big improvement. I have installed many a home theater and my settings (tried native resolution setting and hard coding 720/1080i) without improvement. OTA is much better than my Chicago locals over the SAT. Yes, I tried direct connecting the Hr20 to my projector - no change in quality.

I also get motion artifacts via HDMI and somewhat with component (grayish like a long cloud) in the center of the 110" projected image that the HRXX-250 that this replaced did not have - nothing else changed.

I have issues at multiple levels - same model number (HR20-700S) from two sources - different results. OTA better then SAT (while HR10--250 was great on same config). HDMI poor performance on new unit. Picture quality good on tube (perhaps screen size). I'm tempted to revert back to my old -250.

And yes, my next step is to swap the two new units and see if results (ethernet, hdmi, hdmi quality, etc) changes but I have wasted enough of my life over the past 24 hours and will just settle in for bowl games as they are.....

Any comments?

Scott

I am a new D* subscriber, switching from the local cable company just this past week. I have a HR20 that is successfully using HDMI switching thru my Pioneer Elite 84TXsi receiver to my Mits DLP. I would say the picture looks better than my cable setup. The cable setup using a 8300hd box wouldn't allow the HDMI handshake thru the receiver, so I had to go with a component setup thru the Pioneer.

Overall the HR20 has performed well, I haven't had any problems with bad recordings or lockups, probably more due to timing (latest software rev) than anything.

I am only posting this to show that HDMI works well with the HR20, even using my Pioneer receiver as the hub, something that I couldn't do with my cable setup.

I've only read several back pages since I was on the forum almost daily in December. I have a tale of two cities (or DVR's)

The first was professionally installed with the new dish and hooked to a 36 inch Sony XBR. No HDMI function (or even cable in box), no ethernet and picture looks great through component. After install, the unit downloaded the latest firmware/software. Still no HDMI or ethernet.

Yesterday, I went to Best Buy and bought a second unit for my home theater. On the box was a yellow dot saying "HDMI" and there was a HDMI cable in the box. Both HDMI (passing through my new Yamaha 2600) and ethernet work fine. Downloaded same version of software as the first unit upon installation. Picture on HDMI through the Yamaha to my Epson 550 sucks. Reverted to component and it was a big improvement. I have installed many a home theater and my settings (tried native resolution setting and hard coding 720/1080i) without improvement. OTA is much better than my Chicago locals over the SAT. Yes, I tried direct connecting the Hr20 to my projector - no change in quality.

I also get motion artifacts via HDMI and somewhat with component (grayish like a long cloud) in the center of the 110" projected image that the HRXX-250 that this replaced did not have - nothing else changed.

I have issues at multiple levels - same model number (HR20-700S) from two sources - different results. OTA better then SAT (while HR10--250 was great on same config). HDMI poor performance on new unit. Picture quality good on tube (perhaps screen size). I'm tempted to revert back to my old -250.

And yes, my next step is to swap the two new units and see if results (ethernet, hdmi, hdmi quality, etc) changes but I have wasted enough of my life over the past 24 hours and will just settle in for bowl games as they are.....

Any comments?

Scott

Only that it will be interesting to see what happens when you swap the two new units. I have never heard of this particular problem with HDMI.
Can you swap back the HR10 to check if the problem now exists with that reeceiver as well??

Only that it will be interesting to see what happens when you swap the two new units. I have never heard of this particular problem with HDMI.
Can you swap back the HR10 to check if the problem now exists with that reeceiver as well??

The HR10-250 is still hooked up and I had it reactivated - it is fine. Have not swapped the HR20's yet. Has anyone tried to plug a usb hard drive into the HR20 yet?

Has anyone tried to plug a usb hard drive into the HR20 yet?
To my knowledge, the USB hasn't been activated [yet]. The esata has been though.

To my knowledge, the USB hasn't been activated [yet]. The esata has been though.

I thought I saw a posting about the ESATA, if you attach an external drive the HR20 will use the new drive inplace of the internal...? Does "size" matter? ;)

I thought I saw a posting about the ESATA, if you attach an external drive the HR20 will use the new drive inplace of the internal...? Does "size" matter? ;)
That's what she said :rolleyes:
From another posting: The ESATA does work. It uses 100 gigs for D* so add to that for your storage. [i.e. 300 gig = 200 gig of programs, 900 gig = 800 gig programs]. :) If you plug in an ESATA the HR-20 will format it & use it [only].

Happy New Year All!

I was wondering if this problem has been reported at all.

Tonight I am watching the Blues play on VS, channel 608 and 95. Both channels when I am watching in either recorded of delayed mode, the picture breaks up very bad.

Yet, when I get back to "live feed" I don't get any break up at all. Does this make any sense?

Thanks.

Mike

That's what she said :rolleyes:
From another posting: The ESATA does work. It uses 100 gigs for D* so add to that for your storage. [i.e. 300 gig = 200 gig of programs, 900 gig = 800 gig programs]. :) If you plug in an ESATA the HR-20 will format it & use it [only].


Thank VOS! I think I'm gonna get one of them there big'er :D drives!

That's what she said :rolleyes:
From another posting: The ESATA does work. It uses 100 gigs for D* so add to that for your storage. [i.e. 300 gig = 200 gig of programs, 900 gig = 800 gig programs]. :) If you plug in an ESATA the HR-20 will format it & use it [only].
I think the question is not if it will use the new ESATA drive, but will it continue to use the internal as well. Does it ADD to the HD space (minus the 100gig) or is it INSTEAD of the internal drive.

I think the question is not if it will use the new ESATA drive, but will it continue to use the internal as well. Does it ADD to the HD space (minus the 100gig) or is it INSTEAD of the internal drive.

I thought I had heard the unit will no longer use the internal drive. What if one would open the box and replace the drive with a larger one instead of using an external...? I've built PC's and upgraded many drives so I am familiar with the technology. :)

I thought I had heard the unit will no longer use the internal drive. What if one would open the box and replace the drive with a larger one instead of using an external...? I've built PC's and upgraded many drives so I am familiar with the technology. :)

I believe I read that as well on dbstalk.

Indeed. An external drive replaces the internal rather than adding to it.

I think the question is not if it will use the new ESATA drive, but will it continue to use the internal as well. Does it ADD to the HD space (minus the 100gig) or is it INSTEAD of the internal drive.
As Greywolf posted it's internal or external [and not both] drive. That would just make too much sense [to add capacity].
Changing drives [internal] can't be that tough, but it is a leased box, that would need to be returned to D*. FWIW

Two questions. I have an HR10-250 and have a HR20 coming out with the 5LNB for replacement. Is the OTA on HR20 about the same as the HR10-250?

Second question how do I know if the HR20 I am receiving is a black unit or a silver unit?

Thank you.

As Greywolf posted it's internal or external [and not both] drive. That would just make too much sense [to add capacity].
Changing drives [internal] can't be that tough, but it is a leased box, that would need to be returned to D*. FWIW

Right, it is leased. I'd just hang on to the stock drive and replace it if it ever had to go back to D*.

The OTA signals on my HR20 are a little better than the HR10. The HR20 cannot scan though and the database messes up 2 of my channels so they cannot be received. Nobody has reported getting a black unit yet that I've seen. The black ones will start going out when the silver ones are all delivered. The HR20 has a tamper proof seal. D* might not like getting a leased unit back with a broken seal.

Tamper proof.. Bummer! Oh well, external it is.

Thanks greywolf you put me at ease with the OTA info. I went thru the HD100 (really bad OTA) to the HD200 (good OTA) to the HR10-250 (good OTA). I just didnt want the days of the HD100 coming back to haunt me.

Nope. Not only can you not read my post, you are wrong again as usual. I can indeed record one OTA channel, record one satellite channel, and watch a third channel OTA, all day, every day. Even right now as a matter of fact. Thanks for allowing me to clarify.

Sweet!

If only the rest of the country had gotten one of those 'special' units...I guess everyone else is stuck with the normal 2 tuner functionality.

but, we all bow to your 3 tuner box.

Do I have a lemon? Hooked up a new HR20 last week (prompted a download of the latest software) and have experienced the following problems:

1. Some scheduled recordings did not record. I read here that the box is only 95% successful, so I'll assume this one was my one in 20.

2. Occasional loss of picture and audio. Twice I have lost the picture and audio, forcing me to reset the device. I still get the guide, which works fine, but otherwise I have the "grey screen of death."

3. Attempted pause, rewind or other "Tivo" features sometimes causes unit to freeze. This goes to the heart of the reason for having a DVR and is most perplexing. Upon start up on at least 4 occasions, pressing the pause or rewind button caused the picture to freeze. The only way out of this is to channel down or up, which "unfreezes" the unit. The first time this happened I noticed the aspect ratio was going back and forth between 16x9 and 4x3 with bars, as if the box was confused as to whether it was an HD signal. I changed the output resolution (which was set to 480i) to 720p, and later to 1080i, and this seemed to help, but I later experienced the same problem with an HD output resolution. My projector is native 720p but can scale any resolution.

This thread is rather long and I just don't have the time to read all 55 pages in hopes of finding specific answers. Have others experienced these problems? Thanks for the help.

Do I have a lemon? This thread is rather long and I just don't have the time to read all 55 pages in hopes of finding specific answers. Have others experienced these problems? Thanks for the help.
Don't feel alone. Some people are having the same problems & some aren't, so I can't say it's a lemon [yet]. I've had some problems & have been getting D* to send replacements [waiting for my 4th]. So far no two have had the same problem, but it could be just bad software that takes time to encounter a "glitch", so the longer it runs, the more "defects" show up. I'm still testing/evaluating it.

Is anyone experiencing a picture quality difference when using component cables instead of HDMI?

Is anyone experiencing a picture quality difference when using component cables instead of HDMI?
Most say there is no difference. Some TVs don't seem to work [well] with the HDMI.
What do you have & what is your PQ problem?

Most say there is no difference. Some TVs don't seem to work [well] with the HDMI.
What do you have & what is your PQ problem?
I just got a Sony KDS-R60XBR2, but don't have the HR20 yet. Seems like component would be a better choice if picture quality is the same, since it can do the same resolutions, and there would be no lag when changing around. I imagine that being very annoying.

Has this been discussed here before. DirecTV sent me an HR20 because my HR10-250 was having issues and I finally got it installed on Monday. It seems to not be quite as intuitive in its menus or maybe I'm just used to the older box. In any event, the one thing that is driving me nuts... what in the heck is up with the remote control? What material is this thing made of? Whenever I use it, I find that my finger tips have a really acrid odor that transfers from it. Has anyone else noticed this?

Also, it is my perception that the picture via HR20 component video is maybe a bit softer than what I think I experienced through the HR10-250 component video. The tuner actually seems a little better.

Do I have a lemon? Hooked up a new HR20 last week (prompted a download of the latest software) and have experienced the following problems:

3. Attempted pause, rewind or other "Tivo" features sometimes causes unit to freeze. This goes to the heart of the reason for having a DVR and is most perplexing. Upon start up on at least 4 occasions, pressing the pause or rewind button caused the picture to freeze. The only way out of this is to channel down or up, which "unfreezes" the unit. The first time this happened I noticed the aspect ratio was going back and forth between 16x9 and 4x3 with bars, as if the box was confused as to whether it was an HD signal. I changed the output resolution (which was set to 480i) to 720p, and later to 1080i, and this seemed to help, but I later experienced the same problem with an HD output resolution. My projector is native 720p but can scale any resolution. Have others experienced these problems? Thanks for the help.

I have experienced the freeze once in the 4 days I've had my unit and couldn't figure out how to get it to run again. Once when I turned it on, the picture was frozen on a channel, so I shut it off and then it came back alright. It hasn't missed recording anything for me yet.

Is anyone experiencing a picture quality difference when using component cables instead of HDMI?

Yes. I have both hooked up to a Sony KDF-50E2000 so I can compare the two inputs. I have the picture controls set exactly the same. HDMI produces a greenish tint in shadows, while component doesn't. Before the latest update, I also was experiencing audio synch issues with HDMI, and never with component.

In terms of absolute picture quality, I would say that component and HDMI are a draw (once I compensate for the tint issue on HDMI).

Seems like component would be a better choice if picture quality is the same, since it can do the same resolutions, and there would be no lag when changing around. I imagine that being very annoying.
The "lag" comes from the "native" setting in the HR-20.
As to HDMI & component: HDMI is digital and component is analog. Component starts as digital [in the HR-20] and is converted to analog [component cables], then your TV converts it back to digital. HDMI stays digital all the way. The more converting of a signal, the more chances to distort the signal, so theoretically if it says digital all the way, it is better.

The "lag" comes from the "native" setting in the HR-20.
As to HDMI & component: HDMI is digital and component is analog. Component starts as digital [in the HR-20] and is converted to analog [component cables], then your TV converts it back to digital. HDMI stays digital all the way. The more converting of a signal, the more chances to distort the signal, so theoretically if it says digital all the way, it is better.

...true....but there have been a host of HDMI compatibility issues with handshakes and a/v synch issues. If it works....no, I'll be positive...when it works then HDMI does have the theoritical advantage. Thing is, when I switch back and forth between HDMI and component, I can't actually tell a difference.

...true....but there have been a host of HDMI compatibility issues with handshakes and a/v synch issues. If it works....no, I'll be positive...when it works then HDMI does have the theoritical advantage. Thing is, when I switch back and forth between HDMI and component, I can't actually tell a difference.
Yeah, that's why I said "Theoretical", as I can't see much of a change. The HDMI "issues" for the most part seem to be resolved.

Bump. Does anyone else have a remote that smells?
Has this been discussed here before. DirecTV sent me an HR20 because my HR10-250 was having issues and I finally got it installed on Monday. What in the heck is up with the remote control? What material is this thing made of? Whenever I use it, I find that my finger tips have a really acrid odor that transfers from it. Has anyone else noticed this?

Bump. Does anyone else have a remote that smells?

Well, just to answer your question, No, I haven't noticed anything unusual with mine.

Bump. Does anyone else have a remote that smells?

Smells like plastic to me. I'm curious to know what it smells like.

On mine the picture color on HDMI is washed out looking, not as bright!
And on my Samsung LCD, HDMI does not support 480i. And to me 480p does not look as good as 480i when watching sd channels.

On mine the picture color on HDMI is washed out looking, not as bright!
And on my Samsung LCD, HDMI does not support 480i. And to me 480p does not look as good as 480i when watching sd channels.

With my Sony KDF-50E2000, each input is individually adjustable. Does your Samsung have the same feature? If so, you should be able to adjust the HDMI PQ input to your liking.

Heat Buildup

Do the HR20 units have similar heat buildup problems that the H20 units have? (Or, in other words, should I buy a pc-laptop cooling tablet for the HR20 that I expect to receive shortly?)

Another chance to get a special beta test update on the HR20. Tonight between 11p-1:30a you can force the new update by resetting the box and when the welcome screen comes on hit 02468 on the remote.

This has alot of fixes including ota tuner issues, hdmi, caller id, faster guide, trick play, and more.

Go to www.dbstalk.com
for more.

Another chance to get a special beta test update on the HR20. Tonight between 11p-1:30a you can force the new update by resetting the box and when the welcome screen comes on hit 02468 on the remote.
This has alot of fixes including ota tuner issues, hdmi, caller id, faster guide, trick play, and more.
Go to www.dbstalk.com
for more.
This is EST so it starts in 30 min.

also available tuesday night

http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=75652

I downloaded it last night. If you are a risk taker, it would be worth it. I'm seeing an improvement in ATSC stability. A formerly unwatchable channel now locks in.

can you dl this at anytime or does it have to be in those time windows?

can you dl this at anytime or does it have to be in those time windows?
Only at the time "window" as this is pre-release software. If you want to go back to what you had before: force a download after the window closes and you will get the national [normal] release.

or if you're in no hurry, it should be released gradually across the country in a few weeks.

Had my HR20 for almost a month now (my first DVR). Haven't had much time to play with record features (out of town for holidays) but have used "pause live TV" (worked great). One problem that required a reset. Upon turn-on unit worked fine on MPEG4 channels but would not display picture or produce sound on any MPEG2 channel (HD or SD, Sat or OTA). "Reset Recorder" fixed it.

One question: I have my Harmony 880 set to "turn off" (I realize that I am not really turning it "off") the HR20 along with the rest of my components. I wonder do most of you leave the HR20 "on" all the time or turn it off when you shut down your system?

Regards,
Gunner

One question: I have my Harmony 880 set to "turn off" (I realize that I am not really turning it "off") the HR20 along with the rest of my components. I wonder do most of you leave the HR20 "on" all the time or turn it off when you shut down your system?

Regards,
Gunner

I turn mine "off" as it's in my bed room and I don't want ot deal with all the blue lights. Even though the ring can be turned off, a few of the other lights remain on. Now, in most cases the only light that will be on when I haven't turned it "on" is the yellow record light.

Deezul

I also have the 880 with the HR-20, and I leave mine on all the time. Don't really are the point in turning it off.

Matt

I also have the 880 with the HR-20, and I leave mine on all the time. Don't really are the point in turning it off.

Matt


Yeah, that was the reason for my question. The more I thought about it the less sense it made to turn it "off" although I can understand wanting to kill all the lights in a bedroom installation.

Yeah, that was the reason for my question. The more I thought about it the less sense it made to turn it "off" although I can understand wanting to kill all the lights in a bedroom installation.
"IF" there was any point to turning it off [as I do, old habits], it would be to tell the box it was OK to do housekeeping [which it does].

How long has it been taking everyone on average to have installation completed from the time of order? I ordered mine on 12/12/06, got the deal from Customer Retention and got a call two weeks ago that units were now available in my area and to call to setup an install date. I called and they said they were backed up in my area (Brownstown, MI) and they would call in two weeks to setup an appointment but still no call. Has anybody else experienced this type of delay?

Wow. I have been away for awhile and am surprised that the same issues are still out there. I have not tried OTA since I am very happy with MPEG4. My unit had multiple issues with recordings initially. They would show up in the list but would not play. Then the unit would freeze. A reset everything would not even wipe out the corrupted recordings. I personally would never again "force" a download of new software again. That is when my more serious problems began. I had to do a reformat the hard drive procedure after all else failed. The box has worked pretty much flawlessly ever since. See my previous posts if you need this.

Wow. I have been away for awhile and am surprised that the same issues are still out there. I have not tried OTA since I am very happy with MPEG4. My unit had multiple issues with recordings initially. They would show up in the list but would not play. Then the unit would freeze. A reset everything would not even wipe out the corrupted recordings. I personally would never again "force" a download of new software again. That is when my more serious problems began. I had to do a reformat the hard drive procedure after all else failed. The box has worked pretty much flawlessly ever since. See my previous posts if you need this.
You must not have done a "reset everything" since this reformats the disk. You must have "reset recorder" instead. There are three options from the menu with "everything" at the bottom. I've done it [a couple of times] and know it erases the disk along with clearing ICs on the boards.
Reset recorder is the same as pressing the red button. The next in the menu is reset defaults which clears your SL & history [I think but can't remember] which still doesn't reformat the disk.

PUTINBAY, I would give it up and tell D* that you need to move on. If you have been waiting since 12/12/05 that is 13 months of waiting!!!!!

Sorry, I couldn't resist. :D

I personally would never again "force" a download of new software again. That is when my more serious problems began. I agree. I didn't try to download the new (Monday 1/8) software during the early "windows". I'll just wait for the national release. My HR20 has been doing fine, so I decided to "leave well enough alone".

I just called to get my 2nd hr20 installed and I was on hold for about 15min. and then the lady comes back and tells me she doesn't have anything showing in my area and I was told I will be getting a call back. Should I call them back or wait for that dreaded 72 hrs which I highly doubt they will call me back?

I posted this in another thread but that thread does not seem as active as this one. Maybe some one here using the HR20-700 can help me out.
-------------
I just got my HR20-700 and I must say I am pretty disappointed. I thought this would be the next logical step to replace my HR10-250's.

So far I don't see any improvements on video quality, performance, or ease of use. The Tivo I think still blows this unit away. Maybe I just need some more time to play with it, but right now I am not very happy. If there are video improvements - can someone here tell me where to look for them at?

One bit of excitment was seeing the network, USB, and SATA connectors on the back.

Maybe some of the more experienced users here can help tell me what these do.

1. Can I hook this up to my network? Every time I try it seems to freeze or lockup. I have set all my IP addresses, gateware, DNS correctly - it even passes all the tests. Then about 1 minute later it locks up. Any suggestions?

2. If it does get on a network - can I stream video to this unit? If so what format? And does it allow you to stream HD content to it? Like .TS files? H264 Files? I don't really care about streaming audio or pictures - I have an XBMC for that.

3. Can you add more storage space with the USB port or the SATA port? If so how does it work and what do I need?

Any tips would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!

I posted this in another thread but that thread does not seem as active as this one. Maybe some one here using the HR20-700 can help me out.
-------------
I just got my HR20-700 and I must say I am pretty disappointed. I thought this would be the next logical step to replace my HR10-250's.
So far I don't see any improvements on video quality, performance, or ease of use. The Tivo I think still blows this unit away. Maybe I just need some more time to play with it, but right now I am not very happy. If there are video improvements - can someone here tell me where to look for them at?
One bit of excitement was seeing the network, USB, and SATA connectors on the back.
Maybe some of the more experienced users here can help tell me what these do.
1. Can I hook this up to my network? Every time I try it seems to freeze or lockup. I have set all my IP addresses, gateway, DNS correctly - it even passes all the tests. Then about 1 minute later it locks up. Any suggestions?
2. If it does get on a network - can I stream video to this unit? If so what format? And does it allow you to stream HD content to it? Like .TS files? H264 Files? I don't really care about streaming audio or pictures - I have an XBMC for that.
3. Can you add more storage space with the USB port or the SATA port? If so how does it work and what do I need?
Any tips would be greatly appreciated. Thanks!
I haven't networked mine yet, I have a media center PC connected to my TV for that "stuff". What you can do with the network is play music & show photos from Windows media player 11.
As to the storage. USB doesn't work yet [this will be for a portable something].
The e-SATA works. It will REPLACE the internal hard drive. You can't "just" add storage, its either/or, not both. D* uses 100 gigs of the e-SATA so what ever you connect subtract 100 gig and that's what programs storage will be. Internal is a 300 gig drive.

I just called to get my 2nd hr20 installed and I was on hold for about 15min. and then the lady comes back and tells me she doesn't have anything showing in my area and I was told I will be getting a call back. Should I call them back or wait for that dreaded 72 hrs which I highly doubt they will call me back?

Dear Lord, never wait for them to call you.

I called them 4 times for my DVR and kept being told 3-4 weeks even though I was calling back every few weeks. I finally gave up for a month and called them again and they magically had them in stock

Yet I never got a call from them as they said I would

Is it not posible to "series" record OTA channels? everytime I try to set it up I don't see the record highlight on the channel but it shows it on the regular directv local.

Sorry if this has been covered...
I'm told I'll be getting a 5-LNB dish with my DirecTV install this Saturday (if another snow storm doesn't hit the Boulder area...), and I'd like to do some scheming before the install.
How many cables will be coming out of the dish?
Are they then multiplexed with some sort of gizmo? Does that gizmo need AC power?
It looks like the HR-20 has two co-ax input jacks.
I currently have two co-ax runs from what will probably be the dish site back to my home theater, though one of them has an FM antenna multiplexed onto it.
Thanks

Sorry if this has been covered...
I'm told I'll be getting a 5-LNB dish with my DirecTV install this Saturday (if another snow storm doesn't hit the Boulder area...), and I'd like to do some scheming before the install.
How many cables will be coming out of the dish?
Are they then multiplexed with some sort of gizmo? Does that gizmo need AC power?
It looks like the HR-20 has two co-ax input jacks.
I currently have two co-ax runs from what will probably be the dish site back to my home theater, though one of them has an FM antenna multiplexed onto it.
Thanks
The best thing would be to have two cables from the dish to the HR-20. If you add another unit, you can run another [2] cable(s) from the dish. If you want OTA or FM, use separate cables. While you can diplex [gismo] your antenna & the SAT, later when D* starts using the new SATs, you'll be screwed & need to make changes.

Is it not possible to "series" record OTA channels? every time I try to set it up I don't see the record highlight on the channel but it shows it on the regular DirecTV local.
How long since you last reset? There is a problem where even though you see a program in the guide, it doesn't have all of the info to show a series link. Go to the program recording setup & setup your SL settings. As time goes on, you should see it look the way you want. I had this with D* channels, where I would be too "far out" [in time] for the R) & R)) icon to show [work] right. When I went back a day or two later & worked correctly.

The best thing would be to have two cables from the dish to the HR-20. If you add another unit, you can run another [2] cable(s) from the dish. If you want OTA or FM, use separate cables. While you can diplex [gismo] your antenna & the SAT, later when D* starts using the new SATs, you'll be screwed & need to make changes.

Thanks VOS, that makes sense - you need a cable per "tuned in channel", so 2 cables will work for me. It also sounds like when the new satellites are online that the signal on the cable changes such that diplexing becomes a no-no? It's not obvious why that would be the case to me, but so be it.

I'm really just trying to decide whether to make the installer run new cables for me, rather than use my current 2, which are nicely run through the attic and interior walls. Comcast cable, and an FM antenna are on those now. I bet he'll want to run cables around the eaves outside the house (the dish will be on the opposite end of the house from the home theater), and then drill through an exterior wall. Not ideal. Hmm.

Thanks VOS, that makes sense - you need a cable per "tuned in channel", so 2 cables will work for me. It also sounds like when the new satellites are online that the signal on the cable changes such that diplexing becomes a no-no? It's not obvious why that would be the case to me, but so be it.

I'm really just trying to decide whether to make the installer run new cables for me, rather than use my current 2, which are nicely run through the attic and interior walls. Comcast cable, and an FM antenna are on those now. I bet he'll want to run cables around the eaves outside the house (the dish will be on the opposite end of the house from the home theater), and then drill through an exterior wall. Not ideal. Hmm.

The new sats (DirecTV 10 and 11) to be launched later this year will produce signals in the b-band which overlaps the OTA frequencies so the signals will interfere with each other.

I'm really just trying to decide whether to make the installer run new cables for me, rather than use my current 2, which are nicely run through the attic and interior walls. Comcast cable, and an FM antenna are on those now. I bet he'll want to run cables around the eaves outside the house (the dish will be on the opposite end of the house from the home theater), and then drill through an exterior wall. Not ideal. Hmm.
You could use these cables IF they are RG-6 coax, otherwise [ugly] coax down the side of the house.

I have had very bad experience with my second HR20. Access card messages show up during replay or live TV and then after about 30 minutes it does not allow watching DVR /live at all.

I ordered a new access card Sunday and recieved and activated today. No programming (721 error) - it did read the card!

On Tier 4 tech support they said this is a wide spread problem (thousands of units she said) and now my unit is just a grey box since once you activate a new card the old card is useless.

They credited me 4 months of HD programming and hope to have a new fix out "today or tomorrow"

In the mean time I reactivated my old HR10-250.

If you are thinking about the HR20 - stop for awhile. Temporary Junk. I am in the software business and anytime you have to release both a hardware product and software this many times it wasn't ready for prime time in the first place.

I have been a DTV guy since the second year of their existence. This is a mess.

HR10 looks like a technology wonder now.

Scott

I have two HD Tivos that I bought. My understanding is I should get them both upgraded for free and get to keep my old units. I actually specifically asked this question before I bought the 2nd HD Tivo.

I finally got around to calling to upgrade them and am getting the runaround. I'm on hold to talk to the the 4th person at DirecTV.

I called the main number, their computer wanted to charge me, but they knew it was suppsoed to be free. THey transferred me to installed sales (or something like that). They wanted to charge me $99 each. Rather than argue, I asked to be transferred to customer retention. The person there wanted to give me 1 free one and charge me the full $299 for the second.

I asked to speak to a supervisor and have been on hold for 30 minutes waiting.

Anyone have any suggestions?

Also, I have an old HD receiver - the Sony Sat HD200 that I paid about $1000 for when it first came out. Anyone know what kind of upgrade I should be able to get for that?

Also, did the new HD-DVRs ever get updated so they get OTA channels? And where can I find a list of the HD channels I will get from D* in cleveland area?

Thanks

Alan

I have had very bad experience with my second HR20. Access card messages show up during replay or live TV and then after about 30 minutes it does not allow watching DVR /live at all.
I ordered a new access card Sunday and recieved and activated today. No programming (721 error) - it did read the card!
On Tier 4 tech support they said this is a wide spread problem (thousands of units she said) and now my unit is just a grey box since once you activate a new card the old card is useless.
They credited me 4 months of HD programming and hope to have a new fix out "today or tomorrow"
In the mean time I reactivated my old HR10-250.
If you are thinking about the HR20 - stop for awhile. Temporary Junk. I am in the software business and anytime you have to release both a hardware product and software this many times it wasn't ready for prime time in the first place.
I have been a DTV guy since the second year of their existence. This is a mess.
HR10 looks like a technology wonder now.
Scott
I've had to replace my HR20 several times. Some times I get a new card & some times I don't. My last didn't have one. When it came time to activate it, I spent an hour with D* and it still didn't work. My last call had me transfered to the "access card group". Within a couple of minutes it was working. I asked what did she do? Nothing was the reply [very honest].
So not all CSRs know what to do [Duh]. You might try another call.

I have two HD Tivos that I bought. My understanding is I should get them both upgraded for free and get to keep my old units. I actually specifically asked this question before I bought the 2nd HD Tivo.
I finally got around to calling to upgrade them and am getting the runaround. I'm on hold to talk to the the 4th person at DirecTV.
I called the main number, their computer wanted to charge me, but they knew it was suppsoed to be free. THey transferred me to installed sales (or something like that). They wanted to charge me $99 each. Rather than argue, I asked to be transferred to customer retention. The person there wanted to give me 1 free one and charge me the full $299 for the second.
I asked to speak to a supervisor and have been on hold for 30 minutes waiting.
Anyone have any suggestions?
Also, I have an old HD receiver - the Sony Sat HD200 that I paid about $1000 for when it first came out. Anyone know what kind of upgrade I should be able to get for that?
Also, did the new HD-DVRs ever get updated so they get OTA channels? And where can I find a list of the HD channels I will get from D* in cleveland area?
Thanks Alan
Been there, done that.
It took me several calls to customer retention [they call it playing CSR roulette].
Here was my approach: I paid $800 for my Sony HD SAT-200. D* has obsoleted it with their new MPEG-4 long before I had full use of it.
There new system is to lease the units [not own]. As a D* customer [for years] I've invested a lot of money in equipment. It is their right to make changes, BUT I shouldn't be penalized for it. Paying for the "privilege" to lease something, makes no sense. If it was a security deposit fine [it's not].
So very long story... finally I have two H20s & a HR-20 for $20. They won't budge from the two year programing commitment, but they're "getting theirs" with my monthly bill & in the end, I need to return the [leased] equipment.
I still have my SAT HD 200.
Hope this can help.

...Also, did the new HD-DVRs ever get updated so they get OTA channels? And where can I find a list of the HD channels I will get from D* in cleveland area?...
Yes, just recently.

Check D*'s web site for local channel info. Currently they show the "big 4" as being available in HD in Cleveland. You may be able get more OTA, depending on your location, antenna, etc.

I've had to replace my HR20 several times. Some times I get a new card & some times I don't. My last didn't have one. When it came time to activate it, I spent an hour with D* and it still didn't work. My last call had me transfered to the "access card group". Within a couple of minutes it was working. I asked what did she do? Nothing was the reply [very honest].
So not all CSRs know what to do [Duh]. You might try another call.


Did that twice. The cards are the ones with the ones sent via snail mail. Did you get the 721 error - no programming available ?

Did that twice. The cards are the ones with the ones sent via snail mail. Did you get the 721 error - no programming available ?
Honestly, I don't remember all of them as they were new to me. I do remember it was an access card error then along the way changed to program not avalible [or something] and then with the card group, they all went away.

I just started playing with the HR20's network stuff. One of my Pc's see's the unit in Media Player 11 and I'm able to see My Pictures and My Music. :) Now if I can get it to play the "video's" I'll be all set. :D

Now I know why I cant stream the video from the PC. The HR20 see's the files but it won't play them. Just music and photo's

Right. Video is not supported yet.

I just had my DIRECTV plus hd dvr installed today I have a question On or off it sounds like uhm the sound of something by read from a pc hard drive its that normal

Thanks

edit
call directv sending me a new 1 monday

For those who dare:
There is a test of 0x119 software @ 8 to 10:30 PM PST today & tomorrow.
You will need to do a forced or 02468 download.

http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=73172&goto=newpost

Well I forced the download. Now what?

What was this supposed to fix? Something about sporadic reboots during trickplay. I never had that problem before. Perhaps I should have not forced this download.

I wish they would fix the bug where sometimes when I try to have a recording extend to extra time, it will freeze up on me and I will have to unplug the receiver and reboot.

Well I forced the download. Now what?
What was this supposed to fix? Something about sporadic reboots during trickplay. I never had that problem before. Perhaps I should have not forced this download.
I wish they would fix the bug where sometimes when I try to have a recording extend to extra time, it will freeze up on me and I will have to unplug the receiver and reboot.
You have the option of returning to 0x10b now & until tomorrow's [same time] window & then after the window closes.
This was to fix problems with 0x115. Any recording made with it can be defective. New recording and/or any problems should be reported on the DBStalk forum, so D* can track them to be resolved. This is pre-release software. If you don't want/like it you are under no obligation to use it.
Your freezing up should be fixed.
Again this is out for testing to see if user's problems are solved. If they're not D* wants to know before everybody is sent "bad software".

I don't have any issues with my HR20 except caller id, no big deal.
I wish they would add the ota channel scan feature.

Did anyone have a recording scheduled... it recorded and then when u went to play it , it says do you want to delete automatically... doesnt play it?

had this happen to me 2 times now...

is this a common problem?

Did anyone have a recording scheduled... it recorded and then when u went to play it , it says do you want to delete automatically... doesn't play it? had this happen to me 2 times now...
is this a common problem?
Maybe not "common", but it is a known problem.
What software version do you have?
If you reset the box, this program most likely will "self delete", as the recording is corrupt.
You might want to try the test software available tonight [see my earlier post] and see if that will solve your problem.

I just installed the HR20 and this is my first DVR.
I scrolled throught the program guide and there is nothing on HBO after midnight tonight.
I looked at local channels and it just says "Regular Programming".

Is this normal? I thought the satellite guide was at least 7 days.

John

I just installed the HR20 and this is my first DVR.
I scrolled throught the program guide and there is nothing on HBO after midnight tonight.
I looked at local channels and it just says "Regular Programming".

Is this normal? I thought the satellite guide was at least 7 days.

John

It takes about 24 hrs for the guide to download for the 2 week period. It'll be there soon.

Did anyone have a recording scheduled... it recorded and then when u went to play it , it says do you want to delete automatically... doesnt play it?

had this happen to me 2 times now...

is this a common problem?

Well, I did notice sometimes when you watch something and at the end you tell it to delete, you go back into playlist and it is still there. It maybe takes sometime to update. If you click on the show that you told to delete and then try and play it, it will immediately ask you if want to delete.

Did anyone have a recording scheduled... it recorded and then when u went to play it , it says do you want to delete automatically... doesnt play it?

had this happen to me 2 times now...

is this a common problem?


It's happened to me twice now also. Tonight's "24" won't play. As soon as I select it and play it, it goes to the do-you-want-to-delete screen.

Anyone know a way to recover the frozen show?

You can't recover from the immediate "do you want to delete" bug. The program was never recorded, only the header information.

is there a fix for this.... should i replace my receiver..... i have saved good movies there and i dont want to have to delete...

both my recievers were acting funny today and needed resetting which takes too damn long. Did anyones reciever just had a no pic and no sound today? I see the channel on the top of the screen but the screen is blank and no sound. Is there a cure for this or do I just have to keep on resetting my reciever when this happens. My hr20 has been doing pretty good for the last couple of months too.

Just posting my recent experience.

I called D* on Friday, 1/13/07, and asked for customer retention first thing. Got transferred over and talked to the CSR for maybe 10 minutes. I'm getting an H20 and an HR20 + new dish for $200 + $20 handling fee. 2-yr commitment. 4 months free HD. 3 months free showtime. 6 months of $2/mo HBO. Little to no haggling.

I'm in northern colorado and the install date I got is 2/20.

I'm a 6 year D* subscriber and I've had an HD receiver enabled in the past, but not currently.

Hope this helps,
Kent

It's happened to me twice now also. Tonight's "24" won't play. As soon as I select it and play it, it goes to the do-you-want-to-delete screen.


I've had exactly the same thing happen to me in the last few days. First show to be affected was last Thursday's Grey's Anatomy. Then, all 4 hours of 24 were listed as recorded but nothing comes up except a black screen and the "do you want to delete?" message.

I haven't tried a complete system reset yet (don't want to lose all my saved programming). I'm resigned to the fact that "24" won't have recorded but will a system reset fix this issue going forward?

I've had exactly the same thing happen to me in the last few days. First show to be affected was last Thursday's Grey's Anatomy. Then, all 4 hours of 24 were listed as recorded but nothing comes up except a black screen and the "do you want to delete?" message.

I haven't tried a complete system reset yet (don't want to lose all my saved programming). I'm resigned to the fact that "24" won't have recorded but will a system reset fix this issue going forward?

This has happened to me a couple of times - when I've done manual scheduling or when I have tried to start playback before the recording is finished. I realize those should not be problems, but I've taken to setting recordings in the standard fashion and being sure to wait until recording is complete to start playback.

It is very annoying.

both my recievers were acting funny today and needed resetting which takes too damn long. Did anyones reciever just had a no pic and no sound today? I see the channel on the top of the screen but the screen is blank and no sound. Is there a cure for this or do I just have to keep on resetting my reciever when this happens. My hr20 has been doing pretty good for the last couple of months too.


that happened to me yesterday...... i had to do 3 resets after that because the schedule didnt show the 8pm hour.....

has anyone added an external hard drive to their hr20?

i was wondering if possible because i want to record more shows...

My understanding is if an external HDD is added, then the HDD inside the unit is by passed. Check out DBStalk forums.

just wondering if anyone here has added an external hard drive to their hr20...... if so how much more time can you record

It's been done. Since the hard drive pretty much only holds programming, double the drive size and it holds about twice as much as an example. As it was said, an external drive will make the internal drive inactive.

how big is the hard drive in the hr20?

I believe that the HR20 uses a 250 GB hard drive.

Is it really as simple as plugging another drive into the eSATA port on the box?
I guess I will have to take another look at the threads over at DBSTalk.

John

Just posting my recent experience.

I called D* on Friday, 1/13/07, and asked for customer retention first thing. Got transferred over and talked to the CSR for maybe 10 minutes. I'm getting an H20 and an HR20 + new dish for $200 + $20 handling fee. 2-yr commitment. 4 months free HD. 3 months free showtime. 6 months of $2/mo HBO. Little to no haggling.

I'm in northern colorado and the install date I got is 2/20.

I'm a 6 year D* subscriber and I've had an HD receiver enabled in the past, but not currently.

Hope this helps,
Kent

I placed 2 orders on December 12, 2006 (one for me and one for a family member), family member had an install date of 1/11/07. They received a call the day before and were told they would call back with a new install date when units became available. Gave $5 off bill for 6 months for any inconvenience. For mine, they would not give an install date due to a shortage of equipment in my area (Trenton, MI). Called again yesterday, still no install date given. DIRECTV installation group (where I was transferred to) said there is such a demand that they stopped taking orders for this box. This is what they say but I do not believe it. My guess is if you do not have DIECRTV currently, you get to the top of the list, if it is an upgrade you go to the bottom of the list. My sister was a new customer in December and got installed in a week.

Good luck Kent! Let us know how it works out.

Has there been any word on the issues being resolved on the HR20? Also, is there anyone that doesn't regret staying with their HR10-250 TIVO unit that has upgraded to the HR20? I am thinking about replacing one of my HR10-250's with the new HR20 so that I can get rid of my antenna, I currently use it to get ABC since I get the NY feeds for the other three channels. Am I making a mistake? I need a reality check here to see if I should do it or not.

Thanks everyone,

Kemical

Has there been any word on the issues being resolved on the HR20? Also, is there anyone that doesn't regret staying with their HR10-250 TIVO unit that has upgraded to the HR20? I am thinking about replacing one of my HR10-250's with the new HR20 so that I can get rid of my antenna, I currently use it to get ABC since I get the NY feeds for the other three channels. Am I making a mistake? I need a reality check here to see if I should do it or not.

Thanks everyone,

Kemical


I like the hr20 better than the tivo, but D* will most likely let you keep both. THey have no reason to take your tivo since they are phasing them out anyway. Leave your antenna up and decide which one you like better. I've got both, and my tivo is currently out in the garage taping things.

how big is the hard drive in the hr20?
300 GB internal drive.
For an external drive, subtract 100 GB from its total to use for programs. D* uses 100 GB for "themselves". So if you added a 800 GB drive you would have 700 GB to use.

I have watched NFL Games on NBC with the HR 20 and noticed on several occasions the screen would crop on a HD program!!! I thought it was an isolated
incident but also noticed on the Today show...same thing...

Has this happened to anyone else???

BM

I have watched NFL Games on NBC with the HR 20 and noticed on several occasions the screen would crop on a HD program!!! I thought it was an isolated
incident but also noticed on the Today show...same thing...

Has this happened to anyone else???

BM

Channel 500 is stretched and overrides my pillar box setting, so I would imagine it is possible that D* could unintentionally stretch an HD program as well thus cropping it. Is that what you have? Just curious, Is this a problem with the mpeg2, mpeg4, or OTA?

Channel 500 is stretched and overrides my pillar box setting, so I would imagine it is possible that D* could unintentionally stretch an HD program as well thus cropping it. Is that what you have? Just curious, Is this a problem with the mpeg2, mpeg4, or OTA?


hd signals do not respond to the pillar box. they are displayed in 16x9.

I did some test recordings over the last few days (using 0x10b) and they all seem fine. However I did notice some problems last night.

1) I came home and the HR20 was recording something.
2) I turned the unit on to watch something else and only got a black screen.
3) The remote (and buttons on the HR20) no longer responded.
4) I waited about 30 minutes and then power cycled the HR20.
5) When the system recovered all the recordings were intact but I seem to have lost the guide data. Is that normal?

Is the black screen I saw the infamous "black screen of death"?

John

P.S. I see that DirecTV has started pushing build 0x119 so hopefully that will be an improvement. It was downloaded by my system at 3:30AM.

When the system recovered all the recordings were intact but I seem to have lost the guide data. Is that normal?
I see that DirecTV has started pushing build 0x119 so hopefully that will be an improvement. It was downloaded by my system at 3:30AM.
After a reboot the guide needs to rebuild, so yes this is normal.
I've been running 0119, since this weekend & so far so good.

I have watched NFL Games on NBC with the HR 20 and noticed on several occasions the screen would crop on a HD program!!! BM

It's my assumption that in this case not all the TV cameras inside the stadium were HD. I was watching a playoff game a couple of weeks back where the interviews with the guys in the fieldside booth were cropped and SD but everything else was full-screen HD.

hd signals do not respond to the pillar box. they are displayed in 16x9.

You misunderstand. My point was that D* can control the stretch and override your settings. Also, stretch is completely within the software's control with 1080i source material. You can force it yourself by setting the Display to 4x3, 1080i and cycling through the formats on a 1080i source. You will see that it can crop a 16x9 image. I'm just not one to buy into the D* company line that D* software is perfect, D* hardware is perfect, and you will get a perfect picture from D*. My HR20 works fine, but not everyone's does. I haven't seen the reported crop issue either, but I don't vouch that the software is perfect, either. The OP was correct is asking if anyone else had seen it, since there are no confirmations, it is either his HR20, or maybe just needs a reset or reset everything.

Hi all,

I have had an HR20 sitting on my kitchen table for a week now, would like to plug it in but heres my issue...

This is going in my living room where I currently have an old 27" non-HD tv in use (big screen died). It has S-video connection, and thats it! I currently have a 1 year old Hughes DirecTV with Tivo DVR (80 gig) running right now.

I will be buying a Samsung DLP TV next Friday. But until then, I would like to hook this up and get used to the new DVR (i.e. not Tivo anymore) and guide and stuff. To do so, I would have to set it up as SD, 4:3 image, and only capable of dispalying 480i.

Do you all know if its relatively easy to reset it (once the new TV arrives) to do HD 1080i, 16:9, and use the HDMI?

Thanks for any comments, would love to start using this, but until now have been planning to wait for new TV. But all your talk has me wanting to get it up and running, download the latest firmware and try things out.

[edit] I should also note that I realize I won't be able to tune the HD channels and see them. I have a media room upstairs with an HD DLP projector, currently have a Samsung 316 HD DirecTV unit hooked up to that. I guess I could try the HD up there until the new TV arrives.

Friday night and Saturday night 11p-1:30a EST a new release canidate will be available to download at your own risk.
No version number or release notes yet, its being called RAVEN for now.

www.dbstalk.com
for more

Friday night and Saturday night 11p-1:30a EST a new release canidate will be available to download at your own risk.
No version number or release notes yet, its being called RAVEN for now.

www.dbstalk.com
for more
----------------
I love these Beta release candidates.........they have such cute names...this one is
for Edgar Allan Poe's Birthday...others have been for "Santa", Elvis one and 2,
and now Raven....If one comes out on April 20... God I hope they don't name it the Hitler release. Bad karma. Real bad! :D

Hi all,

I have had an HR20 sitting on my kitchen table for a week now, would like to plug it in but heres my issue...

This is going in my living room where I currently have an old 27" non-HD tv in use (big screen died). It has S-video connection, and thats it! I currently have a 1 year old Hughes DirecTV with Tivo DVR (80 gig) running right now.

<snip>

[edit] I should also note that I realize I won't be able to tune the HD channels and see them. I have a media room upstairs with an HD DLP projector, currently have a Samsung 316 HD DirecTV unit hooked up to that. I guess I could try the HD up there until the new TV arrives.

Why not? Just hook up your TV to the HR20 using S-Video.

You'll see the HD channels just fine, the HR20 will downconvert them to SD for you.

That way you can get used to the new DVR functionality, and simply hook up HDMI when you pick up your new widescreen TV.

~Dan

Why not? Just hook up your TV to the HR20 using S-Video.
You'll see the HD channels just fine, the HR20 will downconvert them to SD for you.
That way you can get used to the new DVR functionality, and simply hook up HDMI when you pick up your new widescreen TV.
~Dan
I agree. When you get your new TV, "just" go into the setup menu & make the changes for your new TV. Simple.

----------------
I love these Beta release candidates.........they have such cute names...this one is
for Edgar Allan Poe's Birthday...others have been for "Santa", Elvis one and 2,
and now Raven....If one comes out on April 20... God I hope they don't name it the Hitler release. Bad karma. Real bad! :D
Earl knows better.

I am being released tonight??? wow... lol

I am being released tonight??? wow... lol
Yes, you'll be free to fly away...

Friday night and Saturday night 11p-1:30a EST a new release canidate will be available to download at your own risk.




How do you download the beta releases?

Paul

How do you download the beta releases?
Paul
What I do:
Set my remote to IR [I use RF].
At the download window time, I reset the receiver.
At the blue screen: I press 0,2,4,6,8 on the remote.
This will force a software download of what is in the data stream.
If it's in the window, you get the beta, if it's later or earlier, you get the "normal".

Just posting my recent experience.

I called D* on Friday, 1/13/07, and asked for customer retention first thing. Got transferred over and talked to the CSR for maybe 10 minutes. I'm getting an H20 and an HR20 + new dish for $200 + $20 handling fee. 2-yr commitment. 4 months free HD. 3 months free showtime. 6 months of $2/mo HBO. Little to no haggling.

I'm in northern colorado and the install date I got is 2/20.

I'm a 6 year D* subscriber and I've had an HD receiver enabled in the past, but not currently.

Hope this helps,
Kent

Update with regard to my install date:

The CSR selected install date of 2/20 was supposedly her earliest date. A few days ago, I went to directv.com and went to the 'View Orders' page of my account. I noticed the 'Reschedule' button next to my 2/20 install date. Long story short, I was able to use the 'Reschedule' web feature to reschedule for *tomorrow*, 1/20, an entire month before I was supposed to get my install done. I called directv and was on the phone with the 'install CSR' guy before I executed the Reschedule. He had the earliest install date as 3/12! Once I 'Reschedule'd over the web, he was able to refresh his system and saw that my new install date was 1/20, even though he didn't have that date available in his system.

I got the automated call from my installer yesterday stating they will be at my house tomorrow! I couldn't be happier!

FWIW, the directv install csr guy said that there was no hardware backlog, just a backlog of installations waiting to occur. The blizzards we've had in Colorado have not helped.

Kent

ps anyone know if I'll be getting an AT9 or an AU9 dish?

When the HR-20 records a show in "season pass", will it know if it's a repeat or not? Just wondering...

Thanks,

Wynn

Yes, most of the time.

If the guide is correct then it should list a show as a "Repeat". 99% of the time it does and the program will not be recorded if you have selected "First Run only". Once in a while it will make a mistake and record a program again the you may already have.

There is the rare occasion where it will not record a "First Run" show due to the way the title of the show is listed. This happened recently with Brothers & Sisters where there was a Part 1 and a Part 2 shows with the same title for each show. The recorded screwed up and thought that it had already recorded the show and skipped the Part 2 episode. When this happens it does not keep you (or the HR20) in good standing with the wife.

Don't worry, it works correctly a large percentage of the time.

talkdj,

I should add that you have to set your recording option for your season pass to First Run Only in the setup/preference section of the menu.

Note: Season Pass is a TiVo trademark. HR20 uses the term Episodes, but you get the idea.

The HR20 uses the term "Series Link" instead of season pass.

Thanks for that Vonzoog. I am going back to D*TV from the dreaded Time Warner which is our "new" cable company from the merger or takeover of Adelphia here in the Cleveland area. The DVR they offer is the WORST!!! The price for the entire package with two DVR's and high speed internet was over $175.00/month.

I'm keeping the high speed internet from them but going with the premium package with Directv and saving a bunch of money. I was told that Directv was still using the Tivo software for the HD DVR but of course that information was wrong. It seems that the HR-20 has better "Tivo" like features then the Time Warner one.

We will see how the wife feels about this. She is the "Tivo" master and misses the software very much.

Thanks again.

Wynn

This may be more a hassle and not a real issue, so I'd like to see if anyone has a solution. I know when viewing the Guide for FUTURE shows, one click on RECORD records that show, two clicks sets up a Series Link. However, if the show you want to set up a Series link on is ON, one click starts recording, and two clicks asks you stop recording. Is the only solution to this to search for an upcoming future showing and set the Series Link on that?

Deezul

This may be more a hassle and not a real issue, so I'd like to see if anyone has a solution. I know when viewing the Guide for FUTURE shows, one click on RECORD records that show, two clicks sets up a Series Link. However, if the show you want to set up a Series link on is ON, one click starts recording, and two clicks asks you stop recording. Is the only solution to this to search for an upcoming future showing and set the Series Link on that?

Deezul

Start the recording as you are now doing. Press "List". Highlight the program you are recording. Press "Select". On the left side of the screen, highlight "record series".

just had the HR-20 installed and I must say that this unit is very noisy... is this typical for this unit or do I maybe have a bad unit... sounds as if the water is running through pipes elsewhere in the house... any help appreciated... thanks.

just had the HR-20 installed and I must say that this unit is very noisy... is this typical for this unit or do I maybe have a bad unit... sounds as if the water is running through pipes elsewhere in the house... any help appreciated... thanks.

Kinda hard to judge the difference between what you think is noisy and what someone else thinks is noisy. If I have the receiver off I can hear the hr20...whether or not it's as noisy as yours is anyone's guess.

just had the HR-20 installed and I must say that this unit is very noisy... is this typical for this unit or do I maybe have a bad unit... sounds as if the water is running through pipes elsewhere in the house... any help appreciated... thanks.

Remember, the HR20 has a hard drive just like your PC when it is on. Therefore the noise can come from the hard drive and the fan motor. In a regular H20 there is no hard drive only a fan, so yes the HR20 will likely make more noise when on.

just had the HR-20 installed and I must say that this unit is very noisy... is this typical for this unit or do I maybe have a bad unit... sounds as if the water is running through pipes elsewhere in the house... any help appreciated... thanks.

I have mine in a bedroom...I had to put it into a cabinet with glass doors in front (and venting to the back). It doesn't keep us awake.

I am on the verge of switching over to DirecTV from Charter and will be looking for my first experience with both HD and DVR. I see from the website that the current hardware is the HR-20 for $199 after rebate. My question is are the HD DVR's a outright purchase as opposed to a lease. And if so, what kind of warranty and upgrade options do they carryy, say if a new/better unit comes out?

The HR20 is definitely a "lease" as are, I believe, all DTV receivers now. People who have had a hardware problem with it have had it replaced by DTV for either nothing or just shipping cost. I don't think anyone can project what DTV's policy will be when they come out with a unit that replaces the HR20, which is at least a couple of years away. Right now the focus is all on revising the software to clean up the various bugs this product has had since release. (There is EXTENSIVE discussion of these and the different software updates over at www.DBSTalk.com.)

General experience has been that once you have a record as a loyal DTV customer, you can get a pretty good upgrade deal out of them by making unhappy noises to the retention people at customer service.

For what it's worth, I bought two HR20s back in December, right after they enabled the OTA tuner function. Despite some experience with the bugs, we've been very happy with them overall. Right now, they function perfectly most of the time (we don't use any MPEG 4, which has had more problems) and, while the operating software may have a few non-intuitive quirks, the capabilities are terrific. I'm enough of an optimist to believe that they'll get the last bugs out in the next few months, after which this will be a great box.

OK thanks for the feedback. Anything I need to look out for or request when they come to do the install?

I have a question. I have set my HR20 to record both Heroes and 24 tonight(well the series of both). I watched Heroes and I then went to go watch 24, but my playlist does not show the new episode of 24 as being recorded. It does show a Red X and a Star buy it and I have no idea what the means. I check the series out and it shows it as being set up to record the series. I thought this unit you can record two shows at the same time can you not? I'm going to be really bummed if I missed this episode of 24 tonight. Up until now I have had no problems with my HR20, but then again I never had to record to shows at the same time.

UPDATE:
Ok I looked at my priority list and saw that 24 was down on the priority list. It seemed I had a 3rd show (kids' Kim Possible) come on at 9:20 and that show had a higher Priority then 24 so it cancelled 24 and recorded KP! Oh well lesson learned much to my chargin. Boy am I going to hear about it from my wife too! Now 24 is #2 on my priority list right behind Heroes.

I was excited to be the first one on my block to get the HR20 back in September, since then I have sent back 2 and am considering the return of the 3rd, before my wife tosses it out the window.
I've experienced all the bugs listed at
dbstalk and more.

Are there any other mpeg 4 hd dvrs out there that work with d*?

Has anyone gotten a full refund?

I was excited to be the first one on my block to get the HR20 back in September, since then I have sent back 2 and am considering the return of the 3rd, before my wife tosses it out the window.
I've experienced all the bugs listed at
dbstalk and more.

Are there any other mpeg 4 hd dvrs out there that work with d*?

Has anyone gotten a full refund?

Unless you have gotten 3 hardware defective units, the problems are software related. You may want to pop over to DBSTalk.com and sign up for the beta releases when they are available. The latest update, 11b has made the box much more stable.

http://www.dbstalk.com/forumdisplay.php?f=112

Unless you have gotten 3 hardware defective units, the problems are software related. You may want to pop over to DBSTalk.com and sign up for the beta releases when they are available. The latest update, 11b has made the box much more stable.

http://www.dbstalk.com/forumdisplay.php?f=112

It's amazing how many times on this message board that the new release makes "the box much more stable." So when will someone say, "Ok, stable enough for me, no more updates, thanks!" The only issue I've had is occasionally after turning it back "on" from the standby mode I've had no picture. I had to do a restart. That's happened 3-4 times. But otherwise I'm happy with it.

It's amazing how many times on this message board that the new release makes "the box much more stable." So when will someone say, "Ok, stable enough for me, no more updates, thanks!" The only issue I've had is occasionally after turning it back "on" from the standby mode I've had no picture. I had to do a restart. That's happened 3-4 times. But otherwise I'm happy with it.

I think that's the point. For some people the "Black Screen of Death" as it is being called over on DBSTalk.com is unacceptable. However, with each successive software update, the occurances are getting fewer and far between. I see progress in making the HR20 even more reliable.

The HR20 is, after all, a PC. PCs occasionally lock up for any of a number of reasons requiring a re-boot. Once in a while is OK. Every couple of days isn't. This DVR, in my opinion, was released with a badly tested operating system giving the impression that the hardware itself is defective. Actually, it is fairly well built. Coming from using an HR10-250 (which I am still using in another room), there are many things I like about it.

However, even with release 11b of the software, while it is many times better than its original release, it is still not as reliable as the HR10-250. But, it is getting there.

I posted this in the ps3 as well as here.

Does anybody know if I can stream video from a pc to the ps3or the HR20? Specifically, I want to stream Netflix' new "Watch Now" service to the ps3 or maybe my HR20 dvr.

My pc is not hooked up to my display, but I have my ps3 hooked up through wi-fi and I can hook up both the ps3 and the HR20 through ethernet if I need to.

Has anyone tried this yet?

Hate to repost a question, but I'm having DirectTV installed on Thurs with the HR20. Since I'm new to the HD and DVR world , I'm just wondering if there is anything I need to know about or look for when they come as far as the unit, setup or anything else. Thanks in advance.

The HR20 Forum (http://www.dbstalk.com/forumdisplay.php?f=112) is a good resource, BamaPT. Don't know how much you'll find on installs there though.

The HR20 Forum (http://www.dbstalk.com/forumdisplay.php?f=112) is a good resource, BamaPT. Don't know how much you'll find on installs there though.

Thanks!

The networking capabilities of the HR20 are limited to still photos and audio files right now. Video is in development. Two things installers like to leave out are two struts called monopoles and grounding. The dish mount should resemble a tripod. The dish mast should be grounded and each coax line should be grounded near where it enters the building.