DirecTV DVR40, DVR120 User Manual

DIRECTV and RCA are dedicated to providing you with quality support and customer service. If you have questions or difficulties, we would like to hear from you.

For questions regarding your DIRECTV

DVR, DIRECTV® programming or your DIRECTV® DVR with TiVo® service, after

checking the Troubleshooting chapter of this guide, please contact DIRECTV at 1-800-531-5000.

If your DVR is not working properly even after restarting it, you are having trouble with the remote control, or you have other technical questions, please contact RCA at 580-634-0151.

When you call either RCA or DIRECTV, you will need to provide the 12 digit number on your DVR's access card, and the make, model number, serial number and 12 digit Receiver ID number of your DVR, located on a label on the back of the DVR and on the System Information screen under Messages & Setup.

DIRECTV

DVR User's Guide

DIRECTV DVR

User's Guide

The On-Screen Menus and the Remote Control

Arrow Buttons

To use the DIRECTV® DVR's on-screen menus: Use the remote control’s arrow buttons to move the highlight bar onto the option you want, then press SELECT.

Select

Two Types of On-Screen Arrows

The arrows that appear beside or near the highlight bar show possible directions. For example: on this screen, you could press the RIGHT arrow to highlight Options or the DOWN arrow to highlight Edit Keyword WishList.

The LEFT arrow button often takes you to a previous screen.

Highlight Bar

WEB SITES

You will find all of the most up-to-date information about DIRECTV products and services at the DIRECTV web site, DIRECTV.com. The RCA web site at RCA.com has links to a wide variety of products and information.

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Page Up Arrow

Page Down Arrow

When you see page up or page down arrows at the top or bottom of the screen (or a list), press the CHAN UP/DOWN button to jump to more items an entire page at a time.

Chan

Chan Up/Down Button

Arrows Near Highlight Bar

Hints & Shortcuts

Press the DIRECTV button once to go to DIRECTV Central, or twice to

go to the Now Playing List.

LIST brings you directly to the Now Playing List.

Press FWD (fast forward) and BACK (rewind) up to 3 times for 3

speeds. Press them a fourth time to resume normal play.

INSTANT REPLAY replays the last 8 seconds of a program.

Press CLEAR to delete a title in a list (like the Now Playing list) or to

clear things that aren’t part of the program you’re watching (like the channel banner and status bar).

INFO brings up the channel banner. Press the RIGHT arrow

to switch among three versions of the banner, each with a different amount of information.

CHAN UP/DOWN does more than change the channel—it also pages

up or down through lists of programs or menu items.

Inserting Batteries in the Remote Control

Hold the remote with the battery door facing you. Place your thumb

in the depression of the door and slide the door towards you.

Insert two AA batteries (supplied). Be sure to match the + and -

marks on the batteries to the + and - marks in the compartment.

Replace the battery door by sliding it back into the case with the

tabs towards the rear of the compartment. You’ll hear a click when it’s securely back in place.

Press GUIDE to see the DIRECTV Advanced Program Guide™, then

press INFO (while the guide is visible) to see Guide Options and change the day or time, or show only a category of programs.

EXIT clears all menus and goes to the last channel or recorded

program you were watching. If you press it while you are watching a program, it clears things that aren't part of the program (like the channel banner and status bar).

ADVANCE moves you quickly through saved programming. Press it

while you are fast forwarding or rewinding to jump to the next tick mark on the status bar.

When you’re watching “behind” live TV (for example, if you paused live TV and later resumed watching from the paused spot), ADVANCE catches you up to the live broadcast. In a recorded program, press it once to jump to the end of the program, then again to jump to the beginning.

If you program your remote control (as explained in chapter seven),

the TV POWER, VOLUME, MUTE, and TV INPUT buttons can control your TV and A/V equipment.

The SAT/TV Switch sets the remote control to send channel

changing signals to either the DVR (SAT) or the television (TV). Many of the remote control’s buttons are disabled when this switch is set to TV (for example, SLOW, FAST FORWARD and PAUSE), so if your remote control doesn’t seem to be working, check to make sure this switch is set to SAT.

The WINDOW button is for future use.

DIRECTV Button

Arrow Buttons

Window

Exit

List

Select

Thumbs Down

Mute

Volume

Play

Pause

Back (rewind)

DIREC

Vol

Chan

Remote Active Light

Live TV

Info

Guide

Thumbs Up

Chan Up/Down

Record

Fast Forward

Slow

( )

Instant Replay

TVSAT

Advance

SAT/TV Switch

TV Power TV Input

Enter/Last

Number Buttons

Clear

102

465

798

DIREC

Glossary of Icons

Now Playing

To Do List and View Upcoming Episodes

These appear when you press the THUMBS UP or THUMBS DOWN button. You can give a program up to three Thumbs

™

or three Thumbs Down™.

These appear when an option—such as automatically scheduling an upcoming program or watching an additional program segment—is available. Press SELECT or THUMBS UP to choose the option.

(Green) This program will be saved until you delete it.

(Yellow) In less than one day, this program may be deleted to make room for other programs you have requested, but only if space is needed.

(Yellow with exclamation mark) At any time, this program may be deleted to make room for other programs you have requested, but only if space is needed.

(Red with black border) This program is currently being recorded.

This program is a TiVo

Suggestion. TiVo Suggestions are recorded

on empty space and are the first programs to be deleted.

Program is an individual recording (not part of a Season Pass™ or WishList

™

). In other places, it means an item has been selected.

Program will be recorded as part of a Season Pass.

Program will be recorded as part of a WishList.

DIRECTV Central and Showcases

Appears on DIRECTV Central beside an option that changes. Select it to record a program, watch a preview, or visit a Showcase.

Indicates a selection in DIRECTV Central or Showcases that has some special video content.

Channel Banner

Select to start or stop a recording.

Select to display or turn on Parental Controls.

Select to view Messages.

Select to choose an alternate audio track, if an alternate audio track is available.

Select to turn Dolby Digital audio on or off, if Dolby Digital audio is available.

Highlight to see what’s on the other tuner. This icon becomes bright if the other tuner is recording a program.

DIRECTV Advanced Program Guide

This appears beside pay per view events that are All Day Tickets.

This appears beside programs that are broadcast with Dolby Digital audio.

This icon appears beside programs that are broadcast in Letterbox format.

™

Welcome to DIRECTV

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RCA is a trademark of RCA Trademark Management S.A.

Thomson, 10330 North Meridian Street, Indianapolis, IN U.S.A. 46290

DIRECTV and the Cyclone Design logo, DIRECTV SPORTS THIS WEEK, and

Advanced Program Guide are trademarks of DIRECTV, Inc., a unit of Hughes Electronics Corp., and are used

2230 East Imperial Hwy., El Segundo, CA 90245.

TiVo and the TiVo logo are registered trademarks of TiVo Inc. The Instant Replay logo,

the Jump logo, TiVolution Magazine, Season Pass, WishList, Overtime Scheduler,

the Thumbs Down logo and text, the Thumbs Up logo and text, TiVo and Line Design (smile)

TiVo Inc., 2160 Gold Street, P.O. Box 2160, Alviso, CA 95002-2160.

Manufactured under license from Dolby Laboratories.

“Dolby” and the double-D symbol are trademarks of Dolby Laboratories.

All other trademarks are the properties of their respective owners.

written permission is prohibited.

Product Registration

Please fill out the product registration card (packed separately) and return it immediately, or register online at rca.com. Returning the card allows us to contact you if needed.

Product Information

Keep your sales receipt to obtain warranty parts and service and for proof of purchase. Attach it here and record the serial and model numbers in case you need them. These numbers are located on the product.

Model No.______________________________________________________ Serial No. ______________________________________________________ Purchase Date: __________________________________________________ Dealer/Address/Phone:____________________________________________

Welcome to the DIRECTV family!

DIRECTV offers you more Hollywood hits, classic movies, family programming, news, and a wide range of exciting sports action. Plus access to 36 commercial-free audio channels. And that’s only the beginning.

More Choices than ever before.

With access to over 225 channels, it’s easy to see why DIRECTV has become the entertainment choice for millions of American families. And it’s all digitally delivered, so you get digital-quality sound and razor-sharp picture every time you turn on your TV!

DIRECTV

With DIRECTV service, the main event is at your house! You’ll have access to great movies, exclusive special live sports, concerts and special events. DIRECTV offers up to 55 different pay per view choices a day. There’s no need to order by phone. Just use your remote control to give all your friends and family a front-row seat! (Phone connection required.)

DIRECTV knows sports.

DIRECTV offers access to more sports than you ever thought possible. So you can follow your favorite team across the country with our pro & college sports subscriptions. DIRECTV will take you to the arena for the best sports has to offer. Tune to Channel 212 for DIRECTV SPORTS THIS WEEK

With DIRECTV you're in control.

Your new DIRECTV including the DIRECTV Advanced Program Guide listings, and the ability to pause and replay live TV. Plus, with Pick Programs to Record and the other incredibly powerful and easy to use features of your DIRECTV DVR service, you will have a Season Pass

Pay Per View movies and events.

DVR brings you the hottest new entertainment technology,

™

to all your favorite programming.

™

, with up to 14 days of program

iii

Using this Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vii

Chapter 1: Connecting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1

Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

Before You Begin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

Useful Terms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Cables and Accessories . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9

Setup Examples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

Chapter 2: Guided Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23

Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

Satellite Dish Guided Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Activate . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Phone Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

Chapter 3: The Basics in 5 Short Tours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33

Tour 1: Play with Live TV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Tour 2: DIRECTV Advanced Program Guide™ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Tour 3: Find and Record Your Favorite Programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38

Tour 4: Search for New Programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

Tour 5: Now Playing List . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42

Cool Things You Can Do . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

Chapter 4: Watching Live TV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45

Let’s Go! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

DIRECTV Advanced Program Guide™ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48

Channel Banner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51

Play with Live TV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

Status Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 53

Music Channels . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

Standby . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55

Chapter 5: Finding and Recording Programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .57

Recording Programs: The Basics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Finding Programs to Record . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

I Already Know What I Want to Record . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

I Know What I Like . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

Help Me Find New Programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79

Chapter 6: Messages and Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .83

Messages from DIRECTV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 84

Purchases . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 85

My Preferences . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 89

Recorder & Phone Setup . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 99

System Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106

Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 107

Restart or Reset System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108

Chapter 7: Programming the Remote Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .109

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 110

Instructions: TV Power, Volume, and TV Input . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 111

Resetting the Programmable Buttons . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 114

Setting a Remote Address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 115

Chapter 8: Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .117

Contacting Customer Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118

Questions About Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119

Questions About Live TV (Including Satellite Signal) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 120

Questions About Pick Programs to Record . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 125

Questions About Parental Controls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 131

Questions About the DVR’s Phone Calls . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 132

Questions About Audio . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135

Questions About Pay Per View . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 136

Questions About the Remote Control . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 138

Questions About the DVR Service . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 139

Chapter 9: Warranty and Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .141

Limited Warranty . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 142

FCC Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 144

Specifications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 146

Safety Instructions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 148

Appendix A: Back Panel Reference . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .151

Appendix B: GNU General Public License . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .155

Index . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .161

Using this Guide

This User’s Guide describes how to connect your new DIRECTV® DVR to your television and other audio/video equipment. It also provides valuable information about the features and use of the DVR.

Glossary of Icons. The inside front cover of this guide provides an introduction to the remote control. The inside back cover has a “Glossary of Icons” that explains many of the graphic symbols you will see when using your DVR.

Useful Terms. Many of the technical terms you may encounter in this guide are explained in the “Useful Terms” section beginning on page 5.

Screen Paths. Notes at the bottom of some pages show you how to find the screen being discussed on that page. For example, page 70 describes the “Record by Time or Channel” feature. At the bottom of the page is the note “DIRECTV Central Pick Programs to

Record Record by Time/Channel” This note means you can find Record by Time/

Channel, the screen being discussed, by going to DIRECTV Central (press the DIRECTV button on your remote control) and selecting Pick Programs to Record, then Record by Time/Channel.

DIRECTV

DVR with TiVo® Service. The recording service provided through the

DVR.

DIRECTV DVR. Refers collectively to the satellite antenna receiver and the DVR hardware.

Throughout this guide, you will see

important and helpful notes and

tips in this format.

vii

Before you install the DVR, mount

the satellite dish antenna.

Professional installation is highly

recommended. Your dish must be

mounted, with cables running to the room

where your DVR will be installed, before

you can begin the DVR installation as

described in this guide. Dual LNB dish

antenna connection required for full

functionality.

The TiVo Logo. As you use your DIRECTV DVR, you’ll see the TiVo logo in places like

the Now Playing List and TiVo Suggestions. Your new DVR incorporates the latest DVR (Digital Video Recorder) technology from TiVo. This means you have access to exclusive TiVo features such as WishList Thumbs Down

™

, TiVo Suggestions, and TiVolution Magazine®, all in one seamlessly

™

searches, Season Pass™ recordings, Thumbs Up™ and

integrated product that will change the way you watch television.

Getting Started

After a satellite dish antenna has been installed, you’re ready to start using this guide:

1. Connect the DVR according to the proper setup for your Audio/Video equipment. (See chapter 1, “Connecting.”)

2. Complete Guided Setup to point your satellite dish antenna and activate the DIRECTV Setup.”

Start using your DIRECTV DVR. It’s easy! Learn the basics by browsing the back of the Start Here card. Take the five tours in chapter 3 of this User’s Guide for an interactive way to learn about the DVR’s powerful features. Chapters 4, 5, 6, and 7 describe the DVR service in detail. Read through them to become familiar with the service. Chapter 8 provides a comprehensive troubleshooting guide in case you have questions.

DVR with TiVo® service following the instructions in chapter 2, “Guided

viii

CHAPTER

Connecting

Overview 2

Before You Begin 3

Useful Terms 5

Cables and Accessories 9

Setup Examples 10

Chapter 1

Connecting

Jacks are places where cables can

be connected.

OUT IN

Always connect cables from the

OUT jack of one device to the IN

jack of the next. Never connect an IN to an

IN or an OUT to an OUT.

Overview

TV used to be simple: no color, no digital video, no stereo sound, no digital audio, no choices. All you needed was an antenna and a TV. The antenna captured pictures and sounds. A wire connected the antenna to the TV to transfer pictures and sounds.

As televisions have acquired more features, and new devices have been created to work with them, it may seem that everything has become more complex. Fortunately, the fundamentals haven’t changed. You may have a VCR, a DVD player and a game system, in addition to a satellite dish antenna. However, one thing has remained the same: what you need to do is get the pictures and sounds from their source (the satellite dish antenna) to your TV.

You use cables to make a path over which the pictures and sounds travel from your satellite dish antenna to your TV.

On the back of your equipment you will find several jacks. Some are labeled IN and some are labeled OUT. The pictures and sound enter a piece of equipment through a cable connected to an IN jack and leave through a cable connected to an OUT jack.

When you connect your DIRECTV equipment, you are simply creating a path that starts at the satellite dish antenna and goes in (through IN jacks) and out (through OUT jacks) of your equipment until it reaches your TV.

DVR to your television and other audio/video

Before You Begin

Make sure that all of your equipment is turned off and the DIRECTV DVR is unplugged.

Connecting to a Phone Line

You will need access to a standard analog phone jack. Your DVR needs to be connected to a phone line to communicate with DIRECTV. The DVR occasionally makes a brief phone call to get updates to the DVR service and Showcases, and for pay per view functionality.

You do not need to install a new telephone jack or phone number for the DVR to work; it can detect when your phone line is in use and will only make calls when the phone line is available. If you don’t have a phone jack nearby, you can use the 25 foot phone cord that ships with the DVR. If your phone jack is being used for a phone, you can use the provided splitter to connect both the phone and the DVR to the same phone jack.

Before You Begin

Your DVR should not be used with

a digital PBX phone system. Doing

so may permanently damage your DVR’s

modem and will void your warranty.

Digital PBX phone systems allow many

phones to share a single telephone

number and are usually used in hotels and

office buildings. If you are installing the

DVR in your home, it is very unlikely that

you are using a digital PBX phone system.

Connecting a Dual LNB or a Multi-Satellite Dish Antenna

Your DVR comes equipped with two jacks for satellite input. While the DVR will work if connected to only one satellite input, connecting both allows you to record from two channels at the same time. All of the connection examples in this chapter give instructions for configuring the DVR with connections to both satellite input jacks.

Both a Round Dual LNB dish antenna and an Oval 2 or 3 satellite dish antenna connect to at least two coaxial RF cables. To connect both of your DVR’s satellite input jacks, you must have two coaxial RF cables coming from your satellite dish antenna to the room where the DVR will be installed.

If you have a Single LNB satellite

dish antenna, you will need to

upgrade to a Dual LNB for full

functionality. Contact your satellite dish

antenna manufacturer for more

information about upgrading.

Your DIRECTV DVR is multi-satellite

capable if used with a DIRECTV

Multi-Satellite Dish Antenna,

(not included with all systems).

Chapter 1

For information on how to switch

between watching antenna or

cable channels and watching DIRECTV

channels, see the connection example in

Chapter 2 that is most appropriate to your

configuration.

The DVR does not have an on/off

switch. To turn the DVR on, plug it

in. The DVR, like a clock or a refrigerator,

is designed for constant use and does not

need to be turned off. If you must turn it

off—for example, to move it—simply

unplug it. (The DVR does have an optional

standby mode, explained on page 55.)

Connecting

If you currently own a Dual LNB satellite dish antenna that is already connected to two TVs, you can purchase a multiswitch (described on page 6) that will allow you to connect two cables to your new DVR as well as one to an existing receiver for your second TV.

Using an Antenna or Cable Connection, in Addition to DIRECTV Programming

If you have an antenna or cable connection in addition to your satellite dish antenna, you can watch antenna or cable channels while recording DIRECTV

channels. However, recording and other features (such as parental controls, purchasing pay per view programs, viewing on-screen menus, or pausing live TV), do not work on cable or antenna channels.

Caring for your DIRECTV DVR

Do not drop. Your new DVR contains a hard disk drive that is constantly in motion; it

may be damaged if the DVR falls or is dropped. Place the DVR in a stable location.

Unplug before moving. To prevent damage to sensitive components such as the hard disk drive, always unplug your DVR and then wait a moment for the hard disk to stop spinning before moving it.

Do not stack. Your DVR is NOT designed to carry the weight of other consumer components such as VCRs, DVD players, or A/V receivers.

Flat, hard surface. The DVR should rest on a flat, hard surface only. Do not operate it on a carpet or other padded surface, as this can inhibit proper ventilation and cause the unit to overheat.

Use a surge protector. Like all electronics equipment, your DVR can be damaged by fluctuations in your power supply. Purchasing a surge protector is highly recommended. If

Be sure to read the safety

instructions on page 148.

you purchase a surge protector that allows you to plug in both your DVR’s power and your telephone cord, you may prevent damage to the parts of your DVR that are connected to your phone line as well!

Useful Terms

If you’re not an audio/video wizard, you may find yourself stumbling over some of the names, features and functions of various pieces of equipment. Here’s a quick reference to help you understand some of the terms you may encounter during installation.

Satellite Dish Antennas—Types and Terms

Round Single Satellite Dish Antenna, Oval 2 Satellite Dish Antenna, and Oval 3 Satellite Dish Antenna: The names Round single, Oval 2, and Oval 3 satellite dish

antennas refer to both the most common shape of the dish and the number of satellites from which a dish can receive information. To determine what type of dish you have, look at the arm extending out from the dish. At the end of this arm are one or more “fingers” ending in mushroom shaped parts pointing back at the dish. A single satellite dish antenna has one of these “fingers” pointing back at the dish, a 2 satellite dish antenna has two, and a 3 satellite dish antenna has three. If you own a 2 or 3 satellite dish antenna, your DVR will not work properly unless you have connected a multiswitch with at least four inputs and two outputs. For a definition of a multiswitch, see page 6.

Single LNB and Dual LNB Satellite Dish Antennas: Single LNB and Dual LNB refer to the number of independent signals a dish can send to your audio/video equipment. A Single LNB sends one signal and has one jack, or connector, inside the arm extending from the dish. A Dual LNB sends two signals and has two jacks. The easiest way to determine what type of dish you have is to consult the documentation that came with the dish. Disassembling the dish to determine its type is not recommended.

Round Single satellite dish antenna

Single LNB (Single Satellite)

Useful Terms

Oval 2 satellite dish antenna

Oval 3 satellite dish antenna

Dual LNB (Single Satellite)

Satellite Receiver: A satellite receiver does what its name suggests and more. It

“receives” the signal from your satellite dish antenna, then translates it into a signal your TV can understand, then sends it to the TV. Your DIRECTV

DVR has a built-in satellite

receiver.

Chapter 1

Connecting

Dual Tuner: A tuner picks one channel out of all of your available channels. This allows

you to view a single channel and to change channels. “Dual tuner” means your DIRECTV DVR has two tuners. It can pick out two channels at once, allowing you to record programs on two channels at the same time.

Multiswitch: A multiswitch lets you use the signal from one satellite dish antenna for more than two TVs. If you currently own a Dual LNB dish that is connected to two televisions, a multiswitch will allow you to connect two cables to your new DVR as well as one to a satellite receiver on your second television. If you own a 2 or 3 satellite dish antenna, your DVR will not work unless you have connected a multiswitch with at least four inputs and two outputs.

Access Card: Your access card contains information about your DIRECTV programming subscription. It must be properly inserted and activated for your DVR to work.

Transponder: A transponder is a piece of radio equipment on a satellite. The DIRECTV transponders receive information from DIRECTV and rebroadcast it to your satellite dish antenna. Each transponder rebroadcasts a different set of channels. If the DVR does not receive a signal for an individual transponder, it will not be able to show that transponder’s channels. Each satellite may have a different number of transponders on it.

Cables and Connections

Composite Video and Left/Right (L/R) Audio Cables: Composite Video and Left/Right

(L/R) Audio cables may appear to be just one cable, but are actually three separate cables. The yellow composite cable transfers video. The white and red L/R Audio cables, when used together, transfer stereo sound. These three cables can be used together or separately. For example, you could use an S-Video cable to transfer video and use white and red L/R Audio cables to transfer audio. In this case, you would not need to use the yellow Composite Video cable at all.

Coaxial RF Cable: A coaxial RF cable transfers both audio and video on a single cable.

Useful Terms

Optical (or Digital) Audio Cable: An optical (or digital) audio cable transfers audio only. This cable transfers audio at the highest possible quality from your DIRECTV DVR to an A/V receiver. If you have a home theater, own an A/V receiver capable of receiving



Dolby Not all A/V receivers with optical audio inputs are capable of receiving Dolby audio. An optical audio cable is not included with the DVR.

BNC Cable: A BNC Cable is similar to a coaxial RF cable and transfers both audio and video. This type of cable is not included with your DVR. However, you may already be using a BNC cable in an existing connection to your TV. If so, you can purchase an adapter that will allow you to connect BNC cables to the RF In or RF Out jacks on your DVR.

Telephone Line Splitter: The included telephone line splitter allows you to plug both a telephone and your DVR into a single telephone wall jack.

Digital audio, and wish to use Dolby Digital audio, then you must use this cable.



Digital

Video, Audio, and Electronics Equipment and Terms

Switch Box: A switch box is a small box that allows you to connect multiple devices to

your TV, even if your TV does not have enough input jacks to connect them all directly. It allows you to switch easily between viewing DIRECTV channels, viewing video from your DVD player, or running your game system. Switch boxes are inexpensive and can be purchased at electronics stores.

A/V Receiver: An A/V receiver is similar to a switch box but is more sophisticated. It may offer additional features such as remote control or Dolby Digital audio capabilities. An A/V receiver allows you to connect multiple devices to your TV, even if your TV does not have enough input jacks to connect them all directly. It allows you to switch easily

Chapter 1

Connecting

between viewing DIRECTV channels, viewing video from your DVD player, or running your game system by changing the input source.



Dolby

which can be heard on one of six separate speakers. To use Dolby must use an optical audio cable to connect your DIRECTV DVR to an A/V receiver capable of supporting Dolby inputs are capable of receiving Dolby record using Dolby

Dolby

which can be heard on two or more (usually five) speakers. To use Dolby Sound audio, you must have an A/V receiver capable of supporting Dolby Sound audio connected to your DVR using either L/R Audio cables or an optical audio cable.

Digital PBX Phone System: Digital PBX phone systems allow many phones to share a single telephone number and are usually used in hotels and office buildings. If you are installing the DVR in your home, it is very unlikely that you are using a digital PBX phone system. Do not connect your DVR to a digital PBX phone system. Doing so may permanently damage your DVR’s modem and will void your warranty.

Digital Audio: Dolby® Digital audio is recorded on six separate channels, each of

Digital audio, you

Digital audio. Not all A/V receivers with optical audio

Digital audio. For more information, see page 96.



Surround Sound: Dolby® Surround Sound audio is recorded on two channels,

Digital audio. You must also set your DVR to

Surround

Surge Protector: Surge protectors are devices that protect electronic equipment from power fluctuations. Like all electronics equipment, your DVR can be damaged by fluctuations in your line voltage. Purchasing a surge protector is highly recommended. If you purchase a surge protector that allows you to plug in both your DVR’s power and your telephone cord, you may prevent damage to the parts of your DVR that are connected to your phone line as well! Surge protectors can be purchased at hardware, electronics, or general merchandise stores.

Cables and Accessories

In addition to your television and the equipment that shipped with this DIRECTV DVR (shown below), you’ll need a satellite dish antenna before you connect the DVR

—and a standard, analog phone line (see page 3 for details).

—which should be properly mounted

1. These are the basics: 2. See page 10 to choose

audio/video cables. The carton contains one of each of the following:

DVR

Power Cord

25' Phone Cord

DIRECTV Access Card

Phone Line Splitter

DIREC

Chan

Vol

( )

Remote Control

TVSAT

102

465

and 2 AA

798

DIREC

Batteries

RF Coaxial Cable

Composite A/V Cable

S-Video Cable

3. You may need to purchase

these additional items for some setups:

Extra RF Coaxial Cable

Extra Composite A/V

Cables

Chapter 1

If your TV has only one audio

connector, connect just the white

and yellow ends of the Composite A/V

cable (don’t connect the red end).

Connecting

Setup Examples

Audio and Video Cables

Composite. Many TVs and VCRs have connectors for Composite A/V cables. If your

equipment has them, you can use the Composite A/V cables for both audio and video.

Composite Video and L/R Audio Cables

RF Coaxial. Some TVs only have connectors for RF Coaxial cable. If your TV only has an RF connector, use the RF Coaxial cable for both audio and video and see Example 4 on page 18 (or see Example 1 on see page 12 if you also have a VCR):

Connect to Composite Video and L/R Audio Jacks

(red)

(white)

(yellow)

Coaxial RF Cable

Connect to RF or VHF/UHF jack

S-Video. If you have S-Video connectors on your equipment, and want the highest quality video, use the included S-Video cable. The S-Video cable carries a video signal. You can connect the red and white ends of a Composite A/V cable to carry the audio signal.

S-Video and Left/ Right Audio Cables

Connect to S-Video and L/R Audio jacks

(S-Video)

(red)

(white)

(yellow)

Digital Audio. The receiver includes a Digital Audio Out jack for compatibility with Dolby Digital audio. To use this feature, you will need an optical audio cable (not supplied), and a device that accepts Dolby Digital input. The optical audio cable will carry the audio signal. To complete the setup, you'll also need a connection for the video signal. You can use an S-Video cable to make the connection (for the best video signal), or the yellow ends of a composite cable. If you use a composite cable, you do not need to connect the red and white ends of the cable.

Ordinarily, your DVR produces tones to indicate when certain buttons on the remote control are pressed or to indicate signal strength when you are positioning your dish. If you use Digital Audio Out, you will not hear these tones.

Setup Examples

This chapter provides detailed examples showing how to connect the DIRECTV DVR to your existing audio/video system. Choose the example closest to your configuration and follow the steps in that section.

• Example 1: DVR with VCR, DVD and/or game system, and switch box or A/V

receiver (see page 12)

• Example 2: DVR with VCR (see page 14)

Setup Examples

• Example 3: DVR only (see page 16)

• Example 4: DVR with VCR, antenna or cable, multiple input TV (see page 18)

• Example 5: DVR with VCR, antenna or cable, single input TV (see page 20)

If you have trouble or if your configuration isn’t covered by one of these examples, see the “Back Panel Reference” on page 152.

Chapter 1

Connecting

Example 1: VCR, DVD and/or Game System, and Switch Box or A/V Receiver

Television

Audio R

Audio L

Video





OUT

Audio

Video

Ch 3/4

RF Out

RF In







OUTPUT

Audio

DVD Player or

Game System

Video

Switch Box or

A/V Receiver

Audio

Video



Audio

OUT

Audio

Video

INPUT

Video Audio

Ch 3/4

Out



Video

DIRECTV DVR

AC~In

VCR



Note: Audio/Video cables shown are examples only. Use the best connections available on your equipment.

Example 1: VCR, DVD and/or Game System, and Switch Box or A/V Receiver

 Connect the coaxial RF cables from your satellite dish antenna to the DIRECTV DVR. Connect one coaxial RF cable that comes from your satellite dish antenna to the jack labeled “Satellite In 1” on the DVR. If you have a second coaxial RF cable from your satellite dish antenna, connect it to the jack labeled “Satellite In 2.”

Setup Examples

To switch between watching

DIRECTV programming and

watching video from your VCR, DVD or

game system:

 Connect the DVR’s output to the switch box or A/V receiver’s input.

 Connect your switch box or A/V receiver’s output to your TV’s input.

 Connect the DVR’s output to your VCR’s input. This will allow you to save programs

recorded on your DIRECTV DVR to videotape.

 Connect your VCR’s output to your switch box or A/V receiver’s input.

 Connect your DVD player and/or game system’s output to your switch box or A/V

receiver’s input.

 Connect the phone line. (For more about the phone connection, see page 3.)

 Insert the Access Card that came with your DVR. Open the card door on the DVR’s front

panel. Insert the card into the slot in the direction indicated on the card. Stop when the card makes contact with the back of the slot, then you can completely close the card door. To watch DIRECTV channels, you must insert the card correctly and activate it (activation is covered in the next chapter).

 Plug in all power cords. After you see the Welcome screen, skip to “Guided Setup” on page 23. If you do not see the Welcome screen, see page 119.

• With a switch box, press the buttons

on your switch box

• With an A/V receiver, use the “Input,”

or “Source” button on the receiver or

its remote control.

If you are having trouble changing the

video source, refer to the instructions that

came with

the A/V receiver or switch box.



Chapter 1

To switch between watching your

VCR and watching video from your

DVR, you will need to use the “Input,”

“Source,” or “TV/Video” button on your

TV or TV’s remote control to change the

video source. Some TVs also have a

“Menu” button that allows you to change

the video source using an on-screen

menu.

If you have trouble changing the video

source refer to the instructions that came

with your TV.

Example 2: DVR with VCR

Television

VCR

INPUT

Connecting

Antenna In

VIDEO

S-VIDEO



Audio

OUT

Video

Ch 3/4

Out

RF In



DIRECTV DVR

AC~In







Note: Audio/Video cables shown are examples only. Use the best connections available on your equipment.



Example 2: DVR with VCR

Setup Examples

 Connect the DVR to your TV. Look at the back of your TV and see what types of jacks are available. Connect the DVR’s output to the TV’s input using the best connection available. The example in the diagram shows a composite cable connected for audio and an S-Video cable connected for video. The connection can also be made using only a RF coaxial cable, or using only a composite cable.

 Connect the DVR to your VCR. Connecting the DVR to your VCR will allow you to save programs recorded on your DIRECTV DVR to videotape. The example in the diagram shows an RF cable running from the DVR’s output to the VCR’s input.

 Connect your VCR’s output to your TV’s input. This will allow you to watch videotapes. The example in the diagram shows an RF cable running from the VCR’s output to the TV’s input.

 Connect the phone line. (For more about the phone connection, see page 3.)

 Insert the Access Card that came with your DVR. Open the card door on the DVR’s

front panel. Insert the card into the slot in the direction indicated on the card. Stop when the card makes contact with the back of the slot, then you can completely close the card door. To watch DIRECTV channels, you must insert the card correctly and activate it (activation is covered in the next chapter).



 Plug in all power cords. After you see the Welcome screen, skip to “Guided Setup” on

page 23. If you do not see the Welcome screen, see page 119.

Chapter 1

Example 3: DVR Only

Television

INPUT

Antenna In

Connecting

VIDEO

S-VIDEO



DIRECTV DVR

AC~In





Note: Audio/Video cables shown are examples only. Use the best connections available on your equipment.



Example 3: DVR Only

Setup Examples

 Connect the phone line. (For more about the phone connection, see page 3.)

 Insert the Access Card that came with your DVR. Open the card door on the DVR’s

 Plug in all power cords. After you see the Welcome screen, skip to “Guided Setup” on page 23. If you do not see the Welcome screen, see page 119.



Chapter 1

To switch between watching

DIRECTV channels and antenna/

cable channels, or tapes on your VCR, use

the “Input,” “Source,” or “TV/Video”

button on your TV’s remote to change the

video source. Some TVs have a “Menu”

button and an on-screen menu that lets

you change the video source.

You can watch an antenna or cable

channel while recording a DIRECTV

channel. You will NOT be able use DVR

functions on antenna or cable channels.

You will also need to use your TV’s remote

control to change antenna/cable

channels.

Connecting

Example 4: DVR, VCR, Antenna or Cable, and Multiple Input TV

Television

Antenna In

S-VIDEO



VCR

Audio

R L VIDEO



Video

INPUT

OUT

Ch 3/4

Out

RF In



If you are having trouble changing the

video source, refer to the instructions that

came with your TV.



DIRECTV DVR

AC~In





Note: Audio/Video cables shown are examples only. Use the best connections available on your equipment.



Setup Examples

Example 4: DVR, VCR, Antenna or Cable, and Multiple Input TV

If your TV has both coaxial RF and composite video inputs, follow this connection example to connect your antenna or cable to your TV. You will NOT be able to use DIRECTV DVR functions while watching antenna or cable channels, even if you connect your antenna or cable directly to your DVR.

 Connect the coaxial RF cables from your satellite dish antenna to the DVR. Connect one coaxial RF cable that comes from your satellite dish antenna to the jack labeled “Satellite In 1” on the DVR. If you have a second coaxial RF cable from your satellite dish antenna, connect it to the jack labeled “Satellite In 2.”

 Connect the DVR to your TV.

 Connect the DVR to your VCR. Connecting the DVR to your VCR will allow you to

save programs recorded on your DIRECTV DVR to videotape.

 Connect your VCR’s output to your TV’s input. This allows you to watch videotapes.

 Connect your antenna or cable to the CABLE/ANTENNA RF In jack on your TV.

 Connect the phone line. (For more about the phone connection, see page 3.)

 Insert the Access Card that came with your DVR. Open the card door on the DVR’s

channels, you must insert the card correctly and activate it

“Multiple input” means the TV has

multiple input plugs for A/V

connectors.

Steps , , and  are shown

using composite and s-video

cables. You can make these connections

with other cables, as explained on page

10. Your DIRECTV DVR comes with one

composite and one s-video cable. To

complete the setup example as shown,

you will need to use cables that came with

your VCR, or purchase additional cables.



 Plug in all power cords. After you see the Welcome screen, skip to “Guided Setup” on page 23. If you do not see the Welcome screen, see page 119.

Chapter 1

o switch between watching

DIRECTV channels and watching

antenna/cable channels, or watching

tapes on your VCR, use the “Input,”

“Source,” or “TV/Video” button on your

TV’s remote control to change the video

source. Some TVs have a “Menu” button

that allows you to change the video

source with an on-screen menu.

Connecting

Example 5: DVR with VCR, Antenna or Cable, and Single Input TV

Television

RF In

You can watch an antenna or cable

channel while recording a DIRECTV

channel. You will NOT be able use DVR

functions on antenna or cable channels.

You will also need to use your TV’s remote

control to change antenna/cable

channels.

If you are having trouble changing the

video source, refer to the instructions that

came with your TV.



VCR

DIRECTV DVR

AC~In

Audio

OUT

Video

3/4

Out

RF In









Note: Audio/Video cables shown are examples only. Use the best connections available on your equipment.



+ 144 hidden pages

DirecTV DVR40, DVR120 User Manual

Welcome to DIRECTV

Product Registration

Product Information

Table of Contents

Using this Guide

Getting Started

Connecting

Overview

Before You Begin

Connecting to a Phone Line

Connecting a Dual LNB or a Multi-Satellite Dish Antenna

Using an Antenna or Cable Connection, in Addition to DIRECTV Programming

Caring for your DIRECTV DVR

Useful Terms

Satellite Dish Antennas—Types and Terms

Cables and Connections

Video, Audio, and Electronics Equipment and Terms

Cables and Accessories

Setup Examples

Audio and Video Cables

Setup Examples

Example 1: VCR, DVD and/or Game System, and Switch Box or A/V Receiver

Example 1: VCR, DVD and/or Game System, and Switch Box or A/V Receiver

Example 2: DVR with VCR

Example 2: DVR with VCR

Example 3: DVR Only

Example 3: DVR Only

Example 4: DVR, VCR, Antenna or Cable, and Multiple Input TV

Example 4: DVR, VCR, Antenna or Cable, and Multiple Input TV

Example 5: DVR with VCR, Antenna or Cable, and Single Input TV