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Magnavox 557, 537, 535, 533, 515, 513, 2160A, 2160, 2080 & Philips 3576, 3575

4M views 28K replies 1K participants last post by  DoctorM 
#1 · (Edited)


NOTE: This post & linked help files have been updated continuously since inception.

Magnavox 557, 53x, 515, 513, 2160A, 2160, 2080 & Philips 3576, 3575
N.A. Models: Mag MDR513H/F7,515,533,535,537,557 - H2160MW9,9A - H2080MW8 - Philips DVDR3575H/37,3576


10 years and 9 generations of std def (SD 480i) HDD/DVD recorders with single analog/digital tuners for antenna or unscrambled cable... 12 gens if you add the latest HD models. The 9th-gen and last SD model, 1TB Mag MDR557, was released in April 2014 and has some important differences as described here. All have HDD, DVD and inputs for recording/copying from external sources like cable/sat STBs, DVRs, VCRs, cameras, etc.

Info/help on first 9 gens: Quick Answers ... Help File Index.


Important Notes:
  1. To learn all you need to know, it's simple: click "post #1" above right and bookmark it, then click links to go DIRECTLY to help files... from this post to answers in one click! If you have questions, click Comment/Question button, or send me a PM
  2. Due to the AVS SW change in June 2014, most but not all links herein will work if you're not logged in. If you are logged in, links should work if your User CP > Edit Options > Number of Posts to Show per Page is set to 30, the default.
  3. If you can't get a link to work, you can copy and paste the following text in your browser's address bar:
    http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=22427935
    then hover over the link that doesn't work, copy or write down the link's post #, then replace the "22427935" in the address bar with the number you copied or wrote down.

In April 2014, Funai, an award-winning Japanese company and Walmart Strategic Vendor, released its 9th-generation, 1TB MDR557H/F7 model. Each generation has been a yearly improvement of the same basic design first introduced in Jan 2007 (Philips 3575) as the first and only HDD recorder designed for the U.S. digital transition.

That gen-1 model won a 2007 CES award for innovation as the ONLY recorder, SD or HD (720p/1080i/p), available (then and now) with HDD, analog & digital tuners for antenna or cable, on-board disc drive for burning/playing DVDs & playing CDs, and line inputs.

They don't have multiple tuners or a "Guide" like cable/sat DVRs or TiVo, but no extra "fee" either, and they do have some DVR features like record to HDD, auto-record buffer (Mags), pause/rewind live TV, skip/replay, chase play, simultaneous play/record, resume-play on all partially viewed HDD titles, and more.

They also have many features DVRs don't have like record/copy to DVD, play DVDs/CDs, customize rec mode/bit rates to maximize HDD and DVD capacity, amplified coax passthru on or off (to watch one channel while recording another), composite/S-Video/DV-firewire inputs for copying stuff from VCRs/DVRs/CDs/cameras, 6-hour buffer on Mags (much larger than HD DVRs), editing on HDD/DVD, multiple options for skip/replay times, 0.8X and 1.3X playback with audio, and lots more.

They're the perfect 1st step into the 21st Century of home recording from antenna or unscrambled cable. No media to handle until you want your home movies on DVDs. Just press REC and you're recording or set timers with show names (pre-titling) and watch later. Go on a month's vacation and find all your shows in a title list, with show name, live index pic, date and day of week, ready to play. The HDD will spoil you rotten!

QUICK ANSWERS to Common Questions/Problems

Due to the AVS SW change in June 2014, most but not all links herein will work if you're not logged in. If you are logged in, links should work if your User CP > Edit Options > Number of Posts to Show per Page is set to 30, the default


  • Initial Setup - Coax is passthru only. Menus, channels, playback go thru line connection to TV.
  • Auto Clock - OTA antenna can maintain dead-on time, cable not so much. Try 11:57 Procedure to find and confirm a good time signal.
  • DVD Tray - Won't open until you set unit up, scan channels, THEN press DVD button.
  • Connection - Coax passes antenna/cable signal thru to cable box or TV for separate tuning. You need "line output" to TV to see internal DVDR stuff and watch/record diff. channels by selecting appropriate TV input (ANT or line input).
  • HDMI - PITA! Slow startup, must "chat" w/TV! For 1st time use, press "HDMI" button thru all four formats.
  • Timers - Set clock first. For weekly/daily show, use DOWN arrow in date box of timer menu.
  • Widescreen - Set Video > TV Aspect to "16:9 Wide" even if you don't have 16:9 TV yet... prevents that pissed-off feeling when you do get one and you play back your recorded 16:9 shows.
  • Editing - Making Front- and End-Cuts (Scene Deletes) is not documented in the manual.
  • Dubbing - Two methods for DVD>HDD. Finalized DVD requires Direct Dubbing 1 title at a time.
  • Finalizing - NOT automatic. Use Disc Edit > Finalize. Must have at least 60-min. to next timer program. DO NOT use Auto Finalize since you lose control of when that happens.
  • AV Outputs - Composite Yellow and S-Video OUT on Mags won't work if Progressive scan is ON.
  • AV Inputs - Won't work if Video > Video Input is not set to type of cable used. Clue: Audio w/no video if wrong setting.
  • Remote - Has thin plastic film over face that loosens and makes text harder to see. Remove it.
  • Bad Picture - Could be HDMI button not pressed or DVDR unplugged or no power (not in Standby).
  • Dead Unit - Check batt., try power button on unit, do Soft Reset, check for tuning interference.
  • Tuning Problems - Duplicate channels can cause tuning, timer & even power-on problems
  • Uverse/Satellite/All-Scrambled Cable - All encrypted. Tuner useless unless you add antenna. Simul. record/copy only.
  • Top 12 Things Wrong, Misleading or Omitted in the Manual - Pre-557 manuals are wrong? Ubetcha!

DOUBLE-INDEXED HELP FILES... Double-indexed links for easy "drill-down": 67 major subjects in 11 categories here, leading to 349 detailed discussions.

Disclaimer: Information here is published on a "best-efforts" basis. It can be incomplete or wrong on occasion. Please use due diligence to verify for yourself that names, places, products, parts, etc. are correct for you and your use. IOW, use at your own risk.

Dates: Ignore the original post date on these help file pages. The June 2014 SW change from Huddler HTML to VB SW deleted the "Last edited" dates at bottom of pages, but they were all current as of 6/14/14.

Due to the AVS SW change in June 2014, most but not all links herein will work if you're not logged in. If you are logged in, links should work if your User CP > Edit Options > Number of Posts to Show per Page is set to 30, the default

1. IMPORTANT STUFF


2. GENERAL NEED-TO-KNOW STUFF


3. SETUP
... "Setup" is "Menu" button on 515/53x/557 remote.


4. RECORDING & COPYING... See Section 6, Dubbing, for copying w/internal drives HDD>DVD>HDD.


5. EDITING... With undocumented instructions for Front- and End Cuts.

  • Edit with This DVDR... Name Title, Delete Title, Delete Scene, Divide Title, Protect Title, Add/Delete Chapter, Index Pic, & Combine Title (557 only on HDD and DVD-VR discs).
  • Edit with PC/MAC

6. DUBBING... Using internal drives for making copies.


7. PLAYBACK & PAUSE LIVE TV (PLTV)


8. HARDWARE (HW), FIRMWARE (FW), UTILITIES, TROUBLESHOOTING


9. REMOTE OPS


10. HIGH-TECH STUFF & THE FUTURE


11. SELLERS & SUPPORT... (models in order of newest to oldest generation)

Gen9 - 557 (Apr 2014) - Magnavox MDR557H, 1TB SATA HDD. Video/VR-mode recording, Playlists, Combine Titles, no Empty Titles on DVDs, lots more as described here.


  • Ordering and Replacing Internal Parts & Getting Service Manual (SM).
  • Level 1 Support, Connection/Ops/Troubleshooting, 1-800-605-8610, 7 days/wk, 9:00am-11:00pm EST. Not a knowledgeable source for help... often results in advice to "return it" even tho answer is in one of the help file links above!
  • Level 2 Support, Accessories/Remotes/Repair/Warranty, 1-888-290-0871, M-F, 8:30am-5:30pm EST.
  • OEM Remote, NC003UH. Works on all Mag HDD models. Google for online sellers or call Level 2 Support.
  • $18 Universal Learning Remote - - (now $7.47 online), Philips SRP Series. Works well with Mag & Philips HDD DVDRs plus 5 other component types (TVs, DVRs, AVRs, players, VCRs, etc.), and it controls TV volume when using any device.

Gen8 - 53x Series (Sep 2012) - Magnavox MDR533/535/537H, 320/500/1000GB SATA HDDs, +VR-std recording. Only difference is HDD size. Same FW Versions. Same Op. Manual.

  • Amazon, Refurb/Used, Funai 1-yr parts/90-day labor warranty on New units, typ. Funai 90-day P/L on refurbs (but check w/refurb seller). 30-day Return Policy on "Sold by Amazon" products. Ship to Canada.
    533 (320GB)
    535 (500GB)
    537 (1TB)
  • Operating Manual.
  • Ordering and Replacing Internal Parts & Getting Service Manual (SM).
  • Level 1 Support, Connection/Ops/Troubleshooting, 1-800-605-8610, 7 days/wk, 9:00am-11:00pm EST. Not a knowledgeable source for help... often results in advice to "return it" even tho answer is in one of the help file links above!
  • Level 2 Support, Accessories/Remotes/Repair/Warranty, 1-888-290-0871, M-F, 8:30am-5:30pm EST.
  • OEM Remote, NC003UD except 557, which is NC003UH. They work on all Mag HDD models. Google for online sellers.
  • $18 Universal Learning Remote - - (now $7.47 online), Philips SRP Series. Works well with Mag & Philips HDD DVDRs plus 5 other component types (TVs, DVRs, AVRs, players, VCRs, etc.), and it controls TV volume when using any device.

Gen7 - 515 (Nov 2010) - Magnavox MDR515H, 500GB SATA HDD, +VR-std recording.


  • Operating Manual. 4.4MB pdf.
  • FW Update.
  • Ordering and Replacing Internal Parts & Getting Service Manual (SM).
  • Level 1 Support, Connection/Ops/Troubleshooting, 1-800-605-8610, 7 days/wk, 9:00am-11:00pm EST. Not a knowledgeable source for help... often results in advice to "return it" even tho answer is in one of the help file links above!
  • Level 2 Support, Accessories/Remotes/Repair/Warranty, 1-888-290-0871, M-F, 8:30am-5:30pm EST.
  • OEM Remote, NC003UD except 557, which is NC003UH. They work on all Mag HDD models. Google for online sellers.
  • $18 Universal Learning Remote - - (now $7.47 online), Philips SRP Series. Works well with Mag & Philips HDD DVDRs plus 5 other component types (TVs, DVRs, AVRs, players, VCRs, etc.), and it controls TV volume when using any device.

Gen6 - 513 (Apr 2010) - Magnavox MDR513H, 320GB SATA HDD, +VR-std recording. Can be made to operate like 515 with SuperFW 727V, as described here.


Gen5 - 2160A (Mar 2009) - Magnavox H2160MW9A, 160GB SATA HDD, +VR-std recording. Can be made to operate like 515 with SuperFW 727V, as described here.

  • Ordering and Replacing Internal Parts & Getting Service Manual (SM).
  • Level 1 Support, Connection/Ops/Troubleshooting, 1-800-605-8610, 7 days/wk, 9:00am-11:00pm EST. Not a knowledgeable source for help... often results in advice to "return it" even tho answer is in one of the help file links above!
  • Level 2 Support, Accessories/Remotes/Repair/Warranty, 1-888-290-0871, M-F, 8:30am-5:30pm EST.

  • Original OEM Remote, NB820UD. $14-20 Amazon. Google for other online sellers.
  • OEM Remote, NC003UD except 557, which is NC003UH. They work on all Mag HDD models. Google for online sellers or call Level 2 Support.
  • $18 Universal Learning Remote - - (now $7.47 online), Philips SRP Series. Works well with Mag & Philips HDD DVDRs plus 5 other component types (TVs, DVRs, AVRs, players, VCRs, etc.), and it controls TV volume when using any device.

Gen4 - 2160 (May 2008) - Magnavox H2160MW9, 160GB PATA HDD, +VR-std recording, my "bullet-proof" model.


  • Original OEM Remote, NB820UD. $14-20 Amazon. Google for other online sellers or call Level 2 Support.
  • OEM Remote, NC003UD except 557, which is NC003UH. They work on all Mag HDD models. Google for online sellers.
  • $18 Universal Learning Remote - - (now $7.47 online), Philips SRP Series. Works well with Mag & Philips HDD DVDRs plus 5 other component types (TVs, DVRs, AVRs, players, VCRs, etc.), and it controls TV volume when using any device.

Gen3 - 3576 (Apr 2008) - Philips DVDR3576H, 160GB PATA HDD, +VR-std recording.


Gen2 - 2080 (Jul 2007)
-
Magnavox H2080MW8, 80GB PATA HDD, +VR-std recording. MainAVSForum thread here.

  • Amazon Used-Refurb. ?
  • Operating Manual. 25.8MB pdf.
  • Ordering and Replacing Internal Parts & Getting Service Manual (SM).
  • Level 1 Support, Connection/Ops/Troubleshooting, 1-800-605-8610, 7 days/wk, 9:00am-11:00pm EST. Not a knowledgeable source for help... often results in advice to "return it" even tho answer is in one of the help file links above!
  • Level 2 Support, Accessories/Remotes/Repair/Warranty, 1-888-290-0871, M-F, 8:30am-5:30pm EST.
  • OEM Remote, NC003UD except 557, which is NC003UH. They work on all Mag HDD models. Google for online sellers or call Level 2 Support.
  • $18 Universal Learning Remote - - (now $7.47 online), Philips SRP Series. Works well with Mag & Philips HDD DVDRs plus 5 other component types (TVs, DVRs, AVRs, players, VCRs, etc.), and it controls TV volume when using any device.

Gen1 - 3575 (Jan 2007) - Philips DVDR3575H, 160GB PATA HDD, +VR-std recording. My workhorse testbed model.


 
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3
#21,622 ·

Quote:
Originally Posted by GRIZZ2  /t/940657/magnavox-537-535-533-515-513-2160a-2160-2080-philips-3576-3575/21600#post_22425205

Quote:
Originally Posted by GRIZZ2  /t/940657/magnavox-537-535-533-515-513-2160a-2160-2080-philips-3576-3575/21600#post_22425199


model E2S05UD

DTS 1.0.42

FE R60_003_000

BE HD6A012900L 1E

TT T6004RDU@2

DV ID 00E0A900 00266831

LD OK

DISC ADJ OK
MY UNIT IS A 535....SORRY
 

It might be good if you deleted your prev. post so someone with a 533 doesn't get confused in case their FW is diff.?
 
#21,623 ·
My Mag 515 has started making a loud grinding sound every 10 minutes (exactly.) It doesn't sound like a typical HDD sound (soft scratchy hum), but it sounds more like a motor sound. I can hear it 2 rooms away. It happens when it is powered down and while it is running. The whole unit still works perfectly. Also the front display reads 77--77 when powered up and with no disc inserted. I don't remember it being like that before.


Does anyone know what I am talking about or had the same experience?


Is it the fan, maybe? I saw the pics on how to replace the fan, but where do I order the new one?


Thanks for the help.
 
#21,624 ·

Quote:
Originally Posted by Semper911  /t/940657/magnavox-537-535-533-515-513-2160a-2160-2080-philips-3576-3575/21600#post_22425508


My Mag 515 has started making a loud grinding sound every 10 minutes (exactly.) It doesn't sound like a typical HDD sound (soft scratchy hum), but it sounds more like a motor sound. I can hear it 2 rooms away. It happens when it is powered down and while it is running. The whole unit still works perfectly. Also the front display reads 77--77 when powered up and with no disc inserted. I don't remember it being like that before.


Does anyone know what I am talking about or had the same experience?


Is it the fan, maybe? I saw the pics on how to replace the fan, but where do I order the new one?


Thanks for the help.
 

Could be the fan. Some things to try:

 

1. Place finger on top of case and press down in various areas to see if that makes it stop. If it does, your fan is setting up a harmonic in the case and might be fixed by setting somethoing  on top that stops the harmonic, or tightening the two screws on the fan.

 

2. Do a Soft Reset as described here to get rid of the odd 77--77 display.

 

3. Replace fan as described here.
 
#21,626 ·

Quote:
Originally Posted by wajo  /t/940657/magnavox-537-535-533-515-513-2160a-2160-2080-philips-3576-3575/21570#post_22416979




 

533 / 537 volunteers needed to help keep our FW List up to date.

Please use the SKIP 123 Procedure, Step 1 only, as described here , and post the FW Version numbers for your 533 or 537 (I need both).

Make sure you exit the FW screen with the Return button only.

 

Sunnycrest posted the FW Versions in his new 535... you can copy his block of text and change numbers as required:

Model: E2S05UD

DTV-S: 1.0.42

FE: R60_003_000

BE: HD6AD12900L1E

TT: T60004RDU@2

DV UNIQUE ID: 00E0A900 00267ACE

LD ADJUSTMENT: OK

DISC ADJUSTMENT: OK

 

 

I still need the FW Versions from a 533 and 537.
 
#21,627 ·

Quote:
Originally Posted by BIGA$$TV  /t/940657/magnavox-537-535-533-515-513-2160a-2160-2080-philips-3576-3575/21600#post_22423077


Out of curiosity, why would you want to do all that? What is the objective? Also, I'm assuming you are not going to buy a 537 just for the HDD, but would buy an HDD from Funai?

Well basically any new information on this, will help us in the thread
Hard Disk File System investigation for the Magnavox 537, 535, 533, 515, 513, 2160A, 2160, 2080...
 
#21,628 ·
Does anyone know if Funai has fixed the tuner on the new Magnavox MDR533H, MDR535H, and MDR537H models?


I have a couple of old H2160MW9 units, and a friend has a MDR513H. They generally have been good reliable units, with one major problem. They will not allow a timer recording of certain sub-channels.


While a friend could not get Funai to admit it, the tuners (or firmware) of the original units were/are defective. They do not work correctly if the broadcaster is using two (or more) different frequencies to broadcast their sub-channels. As I understand it, the original ATSC standard required that all sub-channels be broadcast on the same frequency. When the standards were changed to allow sub-channels to be broadcast on different frequencies, Funai apparently never updated the tuners to work properly.


A number of Minneapolis/St. Paul (MN) broadcast stations broadcast their sub-channels on different Radio Frequency (RF) channels.


For example, public television (tpt) in Minneapolis/St. Paul has four sub-channels, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, and 2.4. Sub-channels 2.1, 2.2, and 2.4 are broadcast on RF Channel 34, while sub-channel 2.3 is broadcast on RF channel 23. For last Christmas/New Year's season, they even activated a fifth sub-channel, 2.99, which was broadcast on RF channel 23.


With the sub-channels using different RF broadcast frequencies, the tuners on the old Magnavox units fail to work properly.


For example, if I enter 2.1 on the remote, my H2160MW9 tunes to channel 2.3 (which is on RF 23 - the lowest frequency for any of the "channel 2" sub-channels. Pressing the "channel up" button takes me to channel 2.1 - this is the next higher RF frequency for the "channel 2" sub-channels. Pressing the "channel up" button again takes me to channel 2.2 (on the same RF channel 34). And, pressing the "channel up" button once again takes me to channel 2.4 (again on RF channel 34).


Similarly, entering 2.4 on the remote also takes me to channel 2.3 (broadcasting on the lowest RF sub-channel for "channel 2." If I start at channel 4.1, and press the "channel down" button repeatedly, I go to channel 2.4, channel 2.2, and channel 2.1 (followed by the L3 input). I never see channel 2.3.


The result on timer recordings is disastrous. While all sub-channels can record flawlessly if the recording is manually started, select timer recordings will not work. If I want to record the program on channel 2.1, I must manually record it. If I attempt to timer record channel 2.1, all I get is a black screen (with no sound) recording.


While I've used the tpt channels as an example, other twin city stations have - or still do - broadcast their sub-channels from multiple transmitters (different RF frequencies).


Overall, the Magnavox units have worked well - except for this major defect. Funai has been less than honorable in not acknowledging the defect and providing a fix.

Before considering buying one of the new Magnavox units - or recommending them to a friend - I'd like to know if Funai his fixed the tuners.
 
#21,629 ·

Quote:
Originally Posted by MN_Guy  /t/940657/magnavox-537-535-533-515-513-2160a-2160-2080-philips-3576-3575/21600_50#post_22426878


Overall, the Magnavox units have worked well - except for this major defect. Funai has been less than honorable in not acknowledging the defect and providing a fix.

I don't think you will see a fix. The inability to disable sub-channels is probably related to the issue. It might be a firmware issue or not. I can understand your problem and wish it was illegal, but it seems this issue was never addressed when the ATSC people wrote the spec.
 
#21,630 ·

Quote:
Originally Posted by MN_Guy  /t/940657/magnavox-537-535-533-515-513-2160a-2160-2080-philips-3576-3575/21630#post_22426878

Does anyone know if Funai has fixed the tuner on the new Magnavox MDR533H, MDR535H, and MDR537H models?


I have a couple of old H2160MW9 units, and a friend has a MDR513H. They generally have been good reliable units, with one major problem. They will not allow a timer recording of certain sub-channels.


While a friend could not get Funai to admit it, the tuners (or firmware) of the original units were/are defective. They do not work correctly if the broadcaster is using two (or more) different frequencies to broadcast their sub-channels. As I understand it, the original ATSC standard required that all sub-channels be broadcast on the same frequency. When the standards were changed to allow sub-channels to be broadcast on different frequencies, Funai apparently never updated the tuners to work properly.


A number of Minneapolis/St. Paul (MN) broadcast stations broadcast their sub-channels on different Radio Frequency (RF) channels.


For example, public television (tpt) in Minneapolis/St. Paul has four sub-channels, 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, and 2.4. Sub-channels 2.1, 2.2, and 2.4 are broadcast on RF Channel 34, while sub-channel 2.3 is broadcast on RF channel 23. For last Christmas/New Year's season, they even activated a fifth sub-channel, 2.99, which was broadcast on RF channel 23.
There's a help file that describes your problem and gives some solutions. See "Map Your Own" Solution here.

 

However, in the Local TV Info and Reception Forum, several Minn. users gave you info and answers to their same problem which you didn't mention (and never responded to).

 

One solution was the same as in the Map Your Own help file: combine the RF main number with the Virtual subchannel number. Another solution in the help file is to tune the desired channel and set a timer program with whatever ch. # it automatically enters in the menu.

 

Here's some of the history in that other forum for consideration. I wonder if the other mfrs of offending equipment mentioned there fixed their tuners?
 

Quote:
Originally Posted by MN_Guy  /t/446660/minneapolis-mn-ota/930#post_20672636
Quote:
Originally Posted by drice91  /forum/post/20632433


The actual bandwidth for MeTv will be supplied by KSTC but we are considering changing the channel line-up so that it falls under the 5 major. Early in ATSC when we launched in '99 and had just also become a duopoly we (KSTP) petitioned the ATSC to allow duopolies to align their channels under one major. The ATSC subsequently added this to the A/65 recommendation. KTCA was the first to take advantage of it in this market. We've been holding off mainly because the branding of the two stations is so different, but the latest thinking is that there's more to be gained by having a 5-1, 5-2, 5-3, 5-4, and 5-45 than to retain completely unique branding. KSTC would still be branded as 45 but show up on the channel scan as 5-45. Not certain if this will happen yet but it's getting serious consideration. The big down-side is it requires a new channel scan for many of the tuners, so, for that reason if it does happen it'll likely be with the launch of MeTv.
I'm not sure, but I suspect that this might cause problems for those of us using Magnavox DVRs. I have two of the Magnavox H2160MW9 models, and I cannot timer record any of the TPT channels (2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4). I believe the tuner gets "confused" by the sub-channels divided between the two RF frequencies. I've held off buying newer models (with more HDD storage) until I absolutely need a new DVR, or until I can confirm that the timer/tuner firmware can handle the channels coming from two different RF sources.


Personally, I think it's better to have two distinct brands. Hubbard Broadcasting seems to have adequately promoted the Channel 45 brand. If they now decide to abandon that and use Channel 5.45 instead, Channel 45 stands to lose its unique identity (even if they continue the 45 brand, the 5.45 channel display will show viewers it's really just a Channel 5 sub-channel). I would think that Channel 45, as a separate brand would be more valuable to Hubbard Broadcasting as a (seemingly) separate entity - especially if they decide to sell it or affiliate with another network.
Quote:
Originally Posted by PeterTheGeek  /t/446660/minneapolis-mn-ota/930#post_20673294
Quote:
Originally Posted by MN_Guy  /forum/post/20672636


I'm not sure, but I suspect that this might cause problems for those of us using Magnavox DVRs. I have two of the Magnavox H2160MW9 models, and I cannot timer record any of the TPT channels (2.1, 2.2, 2.3, 2.4).
There is a workaround for that issue. I have two of those units as well. You have to use the RF frequency when recording. For 2.1 I use 34.1, 2.2 would be 34.2. I have problems with the WB as well since 2.3 and 2.4 are on RF 23. So for the WB I use 22.1. Never recorded 2.3 or 2.4 so I'm not sure how to do those two because of the conflict with the WB.


I rather they didn't remap two RF channel like that and the also have a RF digital map conflict with the WB. I'm surprised it works as well as it does with all the mess TPT and the WB make.


WB 23.1, 23.2 and 23.3 RF channel is 22.

TPT 2.1 and 2.2 RF channel is 34.

TPT 2.3 and 2.4 RF channel is 23.


I think you see the problem.
Quote:
Originally Posted by TCDTV  /t/446660/minneapolis-mn-ota/930#post_20673703
Quote:
Originally Posted by PeterTheGeek 
TPT 2.1 and 2.2 RF channel is 34.

TPT 2.3 and 2.4 RF channel is 23.
Actually, 2-1, 2-2 and 2-4 are all on RF channel 34.


2-3 has RF channel 23 all to itself. I think part of the reasoning for that is because 2-3 is technically KTCI, while the rest are technically KTCA. The whole arrangement would make more sense if they used the bandwidth on 2-3 to broadcast in HD.
Quote:
Originally Posted by w0en  /t/446660/minneapolis-mn-ota/960#post_20675718


There are a couple other subchannels on 23 that have higher numbers as well, don't know what they are using them for but my 2011 Samsung sometime get confused on them.

I have several 2003 vintage old LG based (Sony SAT200, Zenith 520 and LG 3410) DTV Sat tuners and they have some troubles with the TPT line up. Scanning up from the bottom of the lineup they start at 2-4 then 2-1, 2-2, 2-3 so they follow the RF channel. They also can have trouble with RF 23 when you use direct entry of the channel number on the remote. I also had trouble when KTCI was still on 16. I still use them on a couple of HD ready sets and for OTA HD recording.
Quote:
Originally Posted by PeterTheGeek  /t/446660/minneapolis-mn-ota/960#post_20676171

Quote:
Originally Posted by TCDTV  /forum/post/20673703


Actually, 2-1, 2-2 and 2-4 are all on RF channel 34.


2-3 has RF channel 23 all to itself. I think part of the reasoning for that is because 2-3 is technically KTCI, while the rest are technically KTCA. The whole arrangement would make more sense if they used the bandwidth on 2-3 to broadcast in HD.
Okay, that's why 2-3 comes up first when I do a up channel then 2-1, 2-2 and 2-4 after. Strange that they would have one SD channel on one RF transmission and then one with a HD with two SD channels. That was your point.
Quote:
Originally Posted by jjeff  /t/446660/minneapolis-mn-ota/960#post_20677071


For whatever reason after I do a channel scan on my newer Sony LCD(W4100) TPT MN(2.2) duplicates on 23.7. My scan also gets 23.8 and 23.9 but both of those show signal cannot be decoded if I try and access them.
Quote:
Originally Posted by TCDTV  /t/446660/minneapolis-mn-ota/960#post_20677333

Quote:
Originally Posted by jjeff  /forum/post/20677071


For whatever reason after I do a channel scan on my newer Sony LCD(W4100) TPT MN(2.2) duplicates on 23.7.
Quote:
Originally Posted by Runch Machine  /forum/post/20635549
some TVs, including my older Sony TV, no longer allows me to watch channel 9.1 or 2.3.
Hmm. I wonder if these data points are an indication that Sony tuners may be more problematic when it comes to complex PSIP mapping.
 
#21,631 ·

Quote:
Originally Posted by wajo  /t/940657/magnavox-537-535-533-515-513-2160a-2160-2080-philips-3576-3575/21600_50#post_22427249


There's a help file that describes your problem and gives some solutions. See "Map Your Own" Solution here.


However, in the Local TV Info and Reception Forum, several Minn. users gave you info and answers to their same problem which you didn't mention (and never responded to).


One solution was the same as in the Map Your Own help file: combine the RF main number with the Virtual subchannel number. Another solution in the help file is to tune the desired channel and set a timer program with whatever ch. # it automatically enters in the menu.

 

Here's some of the history in that other forum for consideration. I wonder if the other mfrs of offending equipment mentioned there fixed their tuners?

Wow, that's a lot of information. You are so helpful.


My Sony TV still has 26.6000 which it skips to give me the 26.xxxx block starting at 26.6001. The 2160A and 515H show 26.1 as scramble then move the whole 26.xx block up by one. Despite a lot of changes at my headend nothing on my end has changed. But it's a minor issue since I have no problem recording anywhere. My TV is discontinued (two years old) yet still gets updates. It's a crazy world.
 
#21,633 ·

Quote:
Originally Posted by dagger666  /t/940657/magnavox-537-535-533-515-513-2160a-2160-2080-philips-3576-3575/21630#post_22427792


how would i set this 515 to use FIOS? right now it's set to use tv antenna.and only gets broadcast channels. we have regular HD fios box
 

To get you started, here's a post by Ken.F on using FIOS.

 

That link is also mentioned in this help file along with other info.
 
#21,634 ·

Quote:
Originally Posted by wajo  /t/940657/magnavox-537-535-533-515-513-2160a-2160-2080-philips-3576-3575/21630#post_22427883


To get you started, here's a post by Ken.F on using FIOS.


That link is also mentioned in this help file along with other info.

That info is a bit outdated. I found a better method for programming FiOS channels.


1. Remove coax from ANT-IN and run auto channel preset for Cable (Analog/Digital).

2. When auto channel preset finishes, run it again with the cable still disconnected. When it gets to DTV channel 10, connect the FiOS cable (from the wall) to the ANT-IN connector on the Magnavox.

3. When auto channel preset is complete, set auto clock to manual and designate your FOX DTV channel.
 
#21,635 ·
RE: Magnavox MDR533H, MDR535H, and MDR537H - Tuner Defects Fixed?

Quote:
Originally Posted by wajo  /t/940657/magnavox-537-535-533-515-513-2160a-2160-2080-philips-3576-3575/21630#post_22427249


There's a help file that describes your problem and gives some solutions. See "Map Your Own" Solution here.


However, in the Local TV Info and Reception Forum, several Minn. users gave you info and answers to their same problem which you didn't mention (and never responded to).


One solution was the same as in the Map Your Own help file: combine the RF main number with the Virtual subchannel number. Another solution in the help file is to tune the desired channel and set a timer program with whatever ch. # it automatically enters in the menu.

 

Wajo - Thanks for your response.


I'm a little old, and don't remember things as well as I used to. But, I remember seeing at least some of the original replies, and their solutions - which I apparently didn't understand at the time, as I tried them and couldn't get them to work for me. My point in the original post was not to seek resolution of the Magnavox recording problem (a friend was trying to address that - unsuccessfully - with Funai at the time), but to offer feedback on the Hubbard Broadcasting plan to combine their two uniquely branded channels under their proposed "5 major" channel line-up).


I just tried a couple of experiments. Attempting to timer record channel 2.1, when the tuner is left on a different channel still doesn't work (black screen recorded). When the channel was left on 2.1 (and the unit was left on - I'd have to see if there's a difference when the unit is off), it did record channel 2.1.


Setting the timer to record channel 34.3 (the RF channel found on rabbitears.info), produces a black screen recording. Setting the timer to record channel 34.1 will result in recording channel 2.1 (just as entering 34.1 on the remote will take the unit directly to channel 2.1). Setting up a timer recording for channel 34.2, results in recording channel 2.2. Setting up a timer recording for channel 2.3 results in recording channel 2.3. And, setting up a timer recording for channel 34.4 results in recording channel 2.4.


While all this is interesting - it is good to have workarounds for defective products - I'd rather see the defects corrected. Again, I'm somewhat old, and I like things to work right, without having to remember and rely on workarounds (especially when they're prone to change as channel lineups change). If I want to record channel 2.1, I'd like to be able to enter channel 2.1 as the channel to record, not channel 34.1.


To that end, I'd still like to hear if anyone knows whether the tuners/firmware of the new Magnavox MDR533H, MDR535H, and MDR537H models have been fixed so that they properly handle sub-channels being broadcast on multiple channels/frequencies. If not, I think Funai should be called on their knowingly releasing new (defective) products which don't meet current ATSC standards.
 
#21,636 ·

Quote:
Originally Posted by MN_Guy  /t/940657/magnavox-537-535-533-515-513-2160a-2160-2080-philips-3576-3575/21630#post_22426878

Does anyone know if Funai has fixed the tuner on the new Magnavox MDR533H, MDR535H, and MDR537H models?
Before considering buying one of the new Magnavox units - or recommending them to a friend - I'd like to know if Funai his fixed the tuners.

Recommend to your friend to ask for a TiVo with lifetime plan. Or maybe he can buy an external ATSC tuner with S-Video or Composite outputs, so he still can use his 513.
 
#21,637 ·
RE: Magnavox MDR533H, MDR535H, and MDR537H - Tuner Defects Fixed?
Quote:
Originally Posted by profhat  /t/940657/magnavox-537-535-533-515-513-2160a-2160-2080-philips-3576-3575/21630#post_22428248


Recommend to your friend to ask for a TiVo with lifetime plan. Or maybe he can buy an external ATSC tuner with S-Video or Composite outputs, so he still can use his 513.

Thanks, profhat.


But, being on (declining - in purchasing power) fixed incomes, my friend and I abandoned pay TV, including pay electronic program guides. Recording on the Magnavox units mimics what we became used to on our old VHS VCR units, without additional program guide fees (monthly, annual, or "lifetime"). Back when we had cable and "program guide" units, we had difficulty with them recording based on the original program guide schedule, not the current, revised, and/or delayed schedules (common after sporting events ran long).


As long as we had to manually adjust our recording times anyway, we decided to stop paying for the (outdated) program guide information.
 
#21,638 ·

Quote:
Originally Posted by wajo  /t/940657/magnavox-537-535-533-515-513-2160a-2160-2080-philips-3576-3575/21600#post_22424762


Stapler's instructions should work, but your symptoms are more like a recording that froze (not a power freeze). If so, you may be able to clear it by just pulling the power cord for ~10 sec, replug, and see if that cleared the rec freeze?


AFAIK, this is a first (timer rec that freezes) so let us know what solves your problem?
So I was going to try to do the short power interrupt yesterday but didn't have time to pull everything out to get to the power strip. Then this morning the display looked normal, powered off. ?! Turned it on, and the title it was recording when it froze was 24:09 long (it was programmed for an hour). Sooo from Friday night at 10:24 to sometime overnight Sat into Sun it straightened itself out. The 3 recordings that were programmed for the time it was frozen all came up with E40s. I have previewed the first few minutes of the Friday night file on the title screen and it seems to play fine. And timed programs that were scheduled after it came back to life have gone fine. Not complaining, VERY glad it came back, but...ideas?
 
#21,639 ·

Quote:
Originally Posted by MN_Guy  /t/940657/magnavox-537-535-533-515-513-2160a-2160-2080-philips-3576-3575/21630#post_22428228

RE: Magnavox MDR533H, MDR535H, and MDR537H - Tuner Defects Fixed?

Quote:
Originally Posted by wajo  /t/940657/magnavox-537-535-533-515-513-2160a-2160-2080-philips-3576-3575/21630#post_22427249


There's a help file that describes your problem and gives some solutions. See "Map Your Own" Solution here.


However, in the Local TV Info and Reception Forum, several Minn. users gave you info and answers to their same problem which you didn't mention (and never responded to).


One solution was the same as in the Map Your Own help file: combine the RF main number with the Virtual subchannel number. Another solution in the help file is to tune the desired channel and set a timer program with whatever ch. # it automatically enters in the menu.

Wajo - Thanks for your response.
 

The new 53x Series units have the same hybrid (switched) tuner type as the units you and your friend have. This means you'll most likely have to perform workarounds. I don't think you'll be happy with the new units.

 

For other OTA (or cable) users who care, here are 10 links to users who solved their duplicate channel problems:

 

Successful Map-Your-Own resolutions of duplicate-channel problems:
  1. CABLE, Artwire & Nottenst,  high/low DTV interference, higher-numbered channel used for timer rec.
  2. CABLE, Stump69,  high/low DTV interference, higher-numbered channel used for timer rec.
  3. CABLE, Ken.F,  high/low DTV interference, deleted lower ch.
  4. CABLE, Sap2007,  high/low DTV interference, deleted lower ch.
  5. OTA, Jam-h,  duplicated 5 & 9, deleted both, added Physical (RF) 44 & 38 per  rabbitears.info.
  6. CABLE, DojoPat,  multiple DTV duplicates at 117.X, deleted 117.X group.
  7. OTA, ALP,  duplicate HD/SD DTV channels 5.1/5,2, out of order w/CH+/-, fixed for timer rec by using Physical (RF) ch.#s per  rabbitears.info
  8. OTA, Kansas_Tom,  both 13 & 44 on 13.1, deleted 13 by MANUALLY entering 13 in menu (not w/CH+/-), added 44.
  9. OTA, jjeff,  double-duplicated DTV HD/SD 9 & HD/SD 29 in Minneapolis-St. Paul area, deleted 29 leaving it still recordable via timer (direct-entry of deleted ch. #). PeterTheGeek, also OTA in same area, gives tested options 5 posts below.
  10. OTA, gryffandor,  duplicate channels 11 & 29 compete for 11.1 and both show sequentially as "11.1," w/ch. 29 not obvious except by Wiki search by ch. call sign, deleting 29 cleared spot for true 11.1.
 
#21,640 ·

Quote:
Originally Posted by wajo  /t/940657/magnavox-537-535-533-515-513-2160a-2160-2080-philips-3576-3575/21630#post_22425686

I still need the FW Versions from a 533 and 537.

A few days ago, I picked up my new MDR 533H at Walmart and connected it

to a rarely used TV (Sanyo). It took me several hours to get it going

because I could not get the "Initial Setup" screen according to the

manual. So, I used the menu button and was able to set it up. All seems

to be working but I have not yet tried to record anything. My current

panny EZ-48V is working well, despite a few bugs, and does everything

that I want so I will continue to use it. A few weeks ago, it stopped

reading my DVD RW disk so I started looking for a replacement and found

this group when I could not find a replacement. It turned out that my

48V just needed to be cleaned but I decided to buy a new machine anyway

because the 48V is five years old. So, now I have a spare. My first

observation is that the display is very small and cannot be read from a

distance. My Panny display is twice as big and was easier to set up

because I installed a mechanical switch which switches my ancient RCA TV

directly to my OTA antenna or to the panny. So, I only have to push one

button once in order to record one OTA channel while watching another.

The MAG tuner is very good, IMO, because it drags in one weak channel

better than my other tuners.



Model: E2S07UD

DTV-S: 1.0.42

FE: R60_003_000

BE: HD6A012900L1E

TT: T6004RDU@2

DV UNIQUE ID: 00E0A900 0026292D

LD ADJUSTMENT: OK

DISC ADJUSTMENT: OK
 
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