I posted this on the tivo forums but i dont know how fast people there reply so let me know if anyone has any ideas.

Connecting Two DVRs Without a Home Network via Wired Ethernet Cable


I saw the digram on HOW to connect two DVR's without a network but what is the purpose of this? Do they still have the ability to transfer shows from one to the other or do you need the router and broadband connection for that?

Connecting two TiVo's with a crossover cable creates a very simple network. This can be done with almost any two computers and would allow file transfers between them providing they have the software to do so and providing their addresses (IP in this case) are capable of communicating with one another (they would need to be on the same subnet with IP). A router would only be required if the addresses were on different subnets.

do i need to use a computer to just simply share files between the two tivos and thats it? tivo com shows a diagram just with the two tivo units connected with an ethernet cable but they don't say under what circumstance it would be used for. i dont care about hooking it up to a computer for all those features and downloads and all that, just want to be able to watch shows in either room from either tivo.
does that make sense?

You need a computer initially to enable multiroom viewing, but that computer never needs to communicate with your Tivo's.

http://customersupport.tivo.com/LaunchContent.aspx?CID=1e643fc9-446a-436d-86cb-8661b81991a5

Once you follow these instructions and the tivos receive their update no computer will be required.

Okay, I posted the same question on tivo.com and someone said this there...

"As to why do this, yes they can transfer shows between them (assuming they are Series 2, not Series 3 Tivos). You don't need a router or broadband to transfer shows.

Make sure you use a crossover Ethernet cable, not a patch cable. You will still need to connect both Tivos to a phone line to receive program guide and software updates. "

No mention of any computer.

Okay, now I get what you meant. I have to change a setting in my account thru tivo.com but never have to actually hook the tivos up to the computer. That works. Thanks for the help!