To reduce risk of fire or
shock hazard, do not
expose this receiver to
rain or moisture.
Cautions
Note to Cable TV Installer:This reminder is provided to call your attention to Article 820-40 of the
WARNING
RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK
DO NOT OPEN
This symbol indicates
“dangerous voltage” inside the
product that presents a risk of
electric shock or personal injury.
Do not stack electronic components or other objects on top of
the receiver. The slots on top of the receiver must be left uncovered to
allow proper airflow to the unit. Blocking the airflow to the unit could
impair performance or damage your receiver and other components.
Do not stack the receiver on top of a “hot component” such as an
audio power amplifier.
FCC Regulations state that unauthorized changes or modifications to
this equipment may void the user’s authority to operate it.
National Electrical Code (Section 54 of the Canadian Electrical Code,
Part 1) which provides guidelines for proper grounding and, in
particular, specifies that the cable ground shall be connected to the
grounding system of the building as close to the point of cable entry as
practical.
TO REDUCE THE RISK OF ELECTRIC SHOCK, DO NOT REMOVE
COVER (OR BACK). NO USER SERVICEABLE PARTS INSIDE.
REFER SERVICING TO QUALIFIED SERVICE PERSONNEL.
This symbol indicates
important instructions
accompanying the product.
Note to Satellite Dish Installer:This reminder is provided to call your attention to Article 810 and in
particular article 810-15 of the National Electrical Code which covers
proper installation and grounding of television receiving equipment as
well as to article 820-40 of the National Electrical Code which specifies
that the satellite dish cable ground shall be connected to the
grounding system of the building as close to the point of cable entry as
practical.
IMPORTANT NOTICE:This device incorporates an anticopy process technology that is
protected by U.S. patents and other intellectual property rights. The
anticopy process is licensed for non-commercial, home use only. Reverse
engineering or disassembly is prohibited.
Care and Cleaning:Use a soft cloth or dusting attachment of your vacuum cleaner to dust
your receiver. Remove dust from the ventilation holes on the top and
bottom.
Plastic surfaces are easily scratched and can be marred by alcohol and
various solvents. Avoid excessive use of oil-based furniture polishes
since the materials used in the cabinet will accumulate more dust. A
non-abrasive, anti-static cleaner/polisher is recommended.
Table of Contents
First Things First ................................................... 3
What is the Digital Satellite System? .............................................4
What’s in the Box ............................................................................ 5
Using This Manual...........................................................................6
The Point and Select Method................................................... 7
Connecting Your Receiver to Your TV............................................ 8
Things to Know Before Connecting Components ..................8
Jacks and Cables........................................................................ 9
StarSight-Licensed: The manufacture and sale of the television schedule feature of this product was licensed
under one or more of the following patents of StarSight Telecast, Inc.; U.S. Patent Nos. 4,706,121; 4,977,455;
5,151,789; 5,335,277: and 5,353,121.
2
First Things First
First Things First
Read the First Two Chapters
The first two chapters of the manual introduce
you to your digital satellite system, and show you
how to use the on-screen guides and menus.
In First Things First, you’ll learn:
• how to use this manual
• how to use the menu system and guides
• different ways to connect the receiver to your TV
• how to order programming
Program Guides details the items and features
associated with the different guides.
The Rest Of The Manual
The rest of the book includes menu information,
reference information such as remote codes, a
glossary, and an index.
First Things First
1
➣
Program Guides
2
➣
3
The Menu System
➣
Reference
4
➣
Appendices
5
3
First Things First
What is the Digital Satellite
System?
You’ve purchased the digital satellite system, so you already
know a lot of the great things it offers. You know that the
system uses the latest satellite technology to deliver television
programming to your home. And you know that the
transmissions are digital, so the quality of the picture and audio
rivals that of laser discs and CDs. You know the dish is small—18
inches wide—and that it often can be installed in a matter of
hours. (See the satellite system Installer Guide for specific
information.)
Those are the some of the things you probably know about the
digital satellite system. But what about the things you don’t
know? For instance...
•The system works like your TV. Pick up the remote and
push the SAT button. Press the Channel Up/Down buttons to
scan through the channels. Press the number keys to go
directly to a channel.
•There is an on-screen program guide. The program guide
is like a TV listing in the newspaper. It is designed to help you
select regular programs and pay-per-view events. You can
also sort the guide to list only specific types of programs. You
can select Sports, for example, and your guide will show
current and upcoming sports programs only. Or Movies. Or
News.
•There is the on-screen Menu System that allows you to
customize your system. You can set up your system, build
channel lists, preview coming attractions, set spending limits,
and receive mail from your program providers.
•There are three types of On-line Help to assist you in
learning how to use the system: Context-Sensitive Help (at
the bottom of most menu screens), Help buttons, and the
System Info menu.
4
First Things First
What’s in the Box
The following items come with your digital satellite receiver:
•Receiver (with access card inserted)
•Remote Control (Remote controls vary by model.)
ON/OFF
MENU
INFO
SELECT
ANTENNA
Receiver
OFF
ON
SATTV
•
MENU
CLEAR
213
546
879
0
WHO•INPUT
ANTMUTEALT AUD
SELECT
•
INFOGUIDE
GO BACK
CHAN
VOL
DS5120RB
DRD502RB
DS5232RB
DRD523RB
SAT1 TVPOWER
SAT
GUIDEFETCH
N
E
U
M
S
T
E
L
C
E
WHO
INFO
+
H
C
L
O
V
MUTE
C
H
-
1
2
5
4
7
8
INPUT
0
2
3
6
9
ANTENNA
DS5130RBC
DS5230RBC
CLEAR
DRD503RBC
ALT. AUD
V
O
L
DS5451RB
GO BACK
DRD515RB
DS7450RB
DRD705RB
Remote Control
Installing Batteries In the Remote
Control
Follow these steps whenever you need to install or change the
batteries in your remote.
1. Remove the cover from the battery compartment.
2. Insert batteries as shown in the battery compartment,
matching the + and - end of each battery.
3. Replace the cover.
Programming the Remote
Depending on your equipment you may need to program the
remote to control other devices. Check out “Programming the
Remote” in the Reference section.
5
First Things First
Using This Manual
There are a couple of conventions used in this manual that might
help you read it.
•Words that appear in ALL CAPS indicate the name of a
button.
•The names of on-screen menu options are shown in italics.
Important Note about This User’s
Manual
This manual assumes that your digital satellite system has been
installed, meaning:
1. The satellite dish antenna has been installed, correctly
pointed at the satellite, and connected to your digital
satellite receiver.
2. The digital satellite receiver is connected to your television
and to a telephone line.
3. The access card is installed in your digital satellite receiver.
Your access card has been matched to your receiver, and
should already be installed when you take the receiver out of
the packing box. The access card should only be taken out of
the receiver when you are issued a new card by your
programming providers.
4. The remote control has batteries and can be programmed to
control both your digital satellite receiver and your TV (if
your TV is remote-controllable).
If your system has not been installed, refer to the satellite dish
Installer's Guide for information regarding proper installation.
Then, refer to the next section, Connecting Your Receiver to YourTV. See your dealer for specific information regarding
professional installation or the purchase of a Self-Installer’s Kit.
6
First Things First
The Point and Select Method
Point and Select is the two-step method you use to navigate
through the menu system and program guides. Once you know
how to point and select, you can explore the menus to learn
more about how your digital satellite system works.
1. Point
You point by pressing the arrow keys on the remote or front
panel. Pressing the arrow keys moves the on-screen highlight
to different items in the program guide and the menu
screens. Pressing an arrow once moves the highlight one
space in the direction of the arrow.
For example, to point down (that is, to move the highlight
toward the bottom of the screen), press the down arrow. To
point right, press the right arrow.
2. Select
Once you have pointed to an item on the screen, select it by
pressing the MENU•SELECT button on the remote or front
panel. Selecting an item tells the menu system to go ahead
and make the change you have indicated.
For example, the instructions in the User’s Manual might tell
you to Point to the Exit button and press MENU•SELECT.
Once you’ve got the hang of the Point and Select rule, you
can use any part of the digital satellite system.
MENU•SELECT
Don’t worry about getting stuck
inside a menu. Pressing the CLEAR
button on the remote takes you
out of the menu system and back
to the program you were
watching.
7
First Things First
Connecting Your Receiver to Your
TV
During the satellite dish antenna installation, the receiver may
have been connected to your TV with just a coaxial cable for the
system test. Depending on what components you have, another
connection may provide better picture and audio quality. The
following sections provide cable and connection information to
help you decide what connection is best for you.
Things to Know Before Connecting
Components
Protect Your Components from Power Surges
•Connect all components before plugging any power cords
into the wall outlet.
•Always turn off the receiver, TV and other components
before you connect or disconnect any cables.
Position Cables Correctly to Avoid Audio Hum or
Interference
•Insert all cable plugs firmly into their jacks.
•Place the audio/video cables to the sides of the TV’s back
panel instead of straight down the middle after you connect
your components.
•Try not to coil any twin-lead cables and keep them away
from the audio/video cables as much as possible.
•Make sure all antennas and cables are properly grounded.
Refer to the Safety Tips sheet packed with your unit.
Protect Your Components from Overheating
•Do not block ventilation holes in any of the components.
Arrange the components so that air can circulate freely.
•Do not stack components.
•Allow adequate ventilation when placing your components
in a stand.
•Place an amplifier or receiver on the top shelf of the stand so
heated air rising from it will not flow around other
components.
8
First Things First
Jacks and Cables
S-Video Jack and Cable
The S-Video jack provides the best picture quality for your
system.
This jack is available on many TVs and is used in conjunction with
audio cables to connect the receiver to your TV. Remember also
to connect the left and right audio cables because the
S-Video jack carries only the picture signal, not the sound.
Audio/Video Jacks and Cables (RCA-type)
The audio/video jacks provide very good picture and stereo
sound quality, and should be used if your TV has no S-Video jack.
Theses jacks are used for most audio/video connections between
components. The receiver audio/video jacks are color coded
(yellow for video, red for right audio, and white for left audio). If
your TV has only one input for audio (mono), connect it to the
right (red) audio jack on the receiver.
RF Jacks and Coaxial Cables (F-type)
The RF jacks provide good picture and mono sound quality, and
are to be used if audio/video connections are not available for
your TV.
These jacks are required for antenna or cable-TV connections.
The RF jacks on the receiver are labeled IN FROM ANT and OUT
TO TV. The coaxial cable supplied with your system is used to
connect the RF jacks between the receiver and your TV’s antenna
input.
S-Video Jack
Audio/Video Jacks
RF Jack
9
First Things First
VIDEO
DIGITAL
SATELLITE
RECEIVER
VCR
IN FROM ANT
OUT TO TV
L
R
S-VIDEO
S-VIDEO
VIDEO
AUDIO
LR
SATELLITE IN
AUDIO
LINRLRVIDEO
AUDIO
AUDIO INVIDEO IN
SATELLITE
DISH
CH3
CH4
TV
OUT TO TV
IN FROM ANT
CABLE
OR
OFF-AIR ANTENNA
CH4
CH3
AUDIO OUTVIDEO OUT
Connection A
Best Picture and Sound Quality
To use this connection you must have:
•TV with separate RF, audio/video, and S-Video inputs (jacks)
•VCR with RF and audio/video inputs
•Coaxial, audio/video, and S-Video cables
To connect TV, VCR and antenna or cable box:
1. Connect coaxial cables as shown.
2. Connect audio/video cables as shown.
3. Connect S-Video cable as shown.
To receive satellite programming:
1. Tune TV to receive the S-Video output from the receiver.
2. Tune receiver to desired channel.
To receive off-air programming (no cable box):
1. Turn off VCR and receiver.
2. Tune TV to desired channel.
To receive off-air programming (with cable box):
1. Turn off VCR and receiver.
2. Tune TV to cable box output channel (usually CH2, CH3,
or CH4).
3. Tune cable box to desired channel.
To record satellite programming:
1. Tune TV to receive S-Video output from receiver.
CAUTION
2. Tune receiver to desired channel.
3. Set your VCR to record on line input.
To view VCR programming:
Do not stack electronic
components or other objects on
top of the receiver. See Safety
Information, inside front cover.
1. Tune TV to VCR output channel (usually CH3 or CH4).
10
First Things First
VIDEO
DIGITAL
SATELLITE
RECEIVER
VCR
IN FROM ANT
OUT TO TV
CABLE
OR
OFF-AIR ANTENNA
L
R
VIDEO
AUDIO
LR
SATELLITE IN
AUDIO
LINRLRVIDEO
AUDIO
AUDIO INVIDEO IN
SATELLITE
DISH
CH3
CH4
TV
OUT TO TV
IN FROM ANT
AUDIO OUTVIDEO OUT
CH4
CH3
Connection B
Very Good Picture and Sound Quality
To use this connection you must have:
•TV with separate RF and audio/video inputs (jacks)
•VCR with RF and audio/video inputs
•Coaxial and audio/video cables
To connect TV, VCR and antenna or cable box:
1. Connect coaxial cables as shown.
2. Connect audio/video cables as shown.
To receive satellite programming:
1. Tune TV to receive line output from receiver
(often called Input 1).
2. Tune receiver to desired channel.
To receive off-air programming (no cable box):
1. Turn off VCR and receiver.
2. Tune TV to desired channel.
To receive off-air programming (with cable box):
1. Turn off VCR and receiver.
2. Tune TV to cable box output channel (usually CH2, CH3,
or CH4).
3. Tune cable box to desired channel.
To record satellite programming:
1. Tune TV to record line output from receiver (Input1).
2. Tune receiver to desired channel.
CAUTION
3. Set your VCR to record on line input.
To view VCR programming:
1. Tune TV to VCR output channel (usually CH3 or CH4).
Do not stack electronic
components or other objects on
top of the receiver. See Safety
Information, inside front cover.
11
First Things First
Connection C
Good Picture and Sound Quality
TV
SATELLITE
DISH
To use this connection you must have:
•TV with RF input (jack)
•VCR with RF and audio/video inputs
•Coaxial and audio/video cables
To connect TV, VCR, and antenna or cable box:
1. Connect coaxial cables and audio/video cables as shown.
To receive satellite programming:
•Tune TV to channel 3 or 4 (depending on how you set the
CH3/CH4 switch on the back of the receiver).
To receive off-air programming (no cable box):
1. Turn off VCR and receiver.
2. Tune TV to desired channel.
To receive cable programming (with cable box):
DIGITAL
SATELLITE
RECEIVER
VCR
OUT TO TV
IN FROM ANT
CH4
CH3
IN FROM ANT
CH3
CH4
OUT TO TV
VIDEO
LINRLRVIDEO
AUDIO
SATELLITE IN
LR
AUDIO
AUDIO INVIDEO IN
AUDIO OUTVIDEO OUT
CABLE
OR
OFF-AIR ANTENNA
1. Turn off VCR and receiver.
2. Tune TV to cable box output channel (usually CH2, CH3, or
CH4).
3. Tune cable box to desired channel.
To record satellite programming:
1. Tune TV to the channel on which you receive the satellite
signal.
2. Tune receiver to desired channel.
3. Set VCR to record on line input.
To view VCR programming:
1. Tune TV to VCR output channel (usually CH3 or CH4).
2. Turn receiver off.
12
CAUTION
Do not stack electronic
components or other objects on
top of the receiver. See Safety
Information, inside front cover.
First Things First
Connection D
Good Picture and Sound Quality
To use this connection you must have:
•TV with RF input
•Coaxial cables
To connect TV and antenna or cable box:
1. Connect coaxial cables as shown.
To receive satellite programming:
•Tune TV to channel 3 or 4 (depending on how you set the
CH3/CH4 switch on the back of the receiver.
To receive off-air programming (no cable box):
1. Turn off receiver.
DIGITAL
SATELLITE
RECEIVER
TV
SATELLITE
DISH
CABLE
OR
OUT TO TV
IN FROM ANT
LINRVIDEO
AUDIO
CH4
VIDEO
CH3
AUDIO
LR
SATELLITE IN
OFF-AIR ANTENNA
2. Tune TV to desired channel.
To receive cable programming (with cable box):
1. Turn off receiver.
2. Tune TV to cable box output channel (usually CH2, CH3, or
CH4).
3. Tune cable box to desired channel.
CAUTION
Do not stack electronic
components or other objects on
top of the receiver. See Safety
Information, inside front cover.
13
First Things First
Interactive Setup
If you self-installed your satellite dish antenna, you may have
already used the interactive setup to find the dish pointing
coordinates, acquire and fine-tune the signal, and run a system
test.
If you need to run the interactive setup again, select Options
from the Main menu, then select Interactive Setup.
If you just want to check your dish pointing coordinates, or run
the signal strength meter, select Dish Pointing from the Main
menu.
Ordering Satellite Programming
After you have installed your system, you should contact the
service providers, DIRECTV and USSB to receive satellite
programming.
Programming with DIRECTV:Call 1-800-347-3288
Programming with USSB:Call 1-800-204-USSB
When you order programming,
you need to know your Access
Card number. To get the number,
select Options from the Main
menu, then System Options, and
then select System Test.
Wait for the system to run all of
it’s tests. The Access Card number
is displayed at the end of the
system test.
Write the Access Card number in
the space below for easy
reference:
________________________________
14
Program Guides
Program Guides
What is a Program Guide?
A program guide is an on-screen programming
schedule. There are several types of guides, each
presenting the schedule in a different format.
Using the program guide is easy as long as you
remember the Point and Select rule. Point to
items on the screen by pressing the arrow keys on
the remote or front panel. Then, press
MENU•SELECT to tune to that program.
First Things First
1
➣
Program Guides
2
➣
3
The Menu System
➣
Reference
4
➣
Appendices
5
15
Program Guides
Anatomy of a Program Guide
The following diagram shows you the kind of information you
will see in the program guides.
Program titles
and information
Returns you to
previous screen
Help gives you
more information
Sort the guide by:
Topics, Movies, or Sports
“Family” is one of five
selectable Profiles
Scrolls through
the guide
Indicates current time
Takes you to
the Main menu
Displays more
sorting options
Searches guide for
specific information
Sorts the current guide
alphabetically by title
Shows all available programs
Bringing Up the Program Guides
You can access the program guides by pressing MENU•SELECT on
the remote and selecting Program Guide, or by using the GUIDE
button on the remote.
16
Program Guides
Anatomy of The Channel Banner
Some of the items you select in the guides can also be selected in
the channel banner.
Program titles
and information
Takes you to
the Main menu
Locks and unlocks
the system
Sorts the guide
alphabetically by title
“Family” is one of five
selectable Profiles
Use Home Control
or Data Port
Read mail from
program providers
Searches guide for
specific information
The channel banner appears whenever you tune to a channel,
exit a guide, or press INFO on the remote. Use the arrow buttons
and MENU•SELECT to choose an item.
On-screen icons represent frequently used menu items. Some
icons also change appearance to show the item’s status.
Green Unlock icon The system is unlocked. Spending, viewing
and other limits can be accessed and changed.
Yellow Unlock icon A password has been entered to override
family or profile limits. No limits can be accessed or changed.
Red Lock icon No limits can be accessed or changed. A password
is required to override limits or access the system.
Highlighted Scout (binoculars) icon A Scout has found
program information.
Highlighted Mail icon indicates a message in your mailbox.
Home Control or Data Port icons The icon changes
appearance depending on how the Low Speed Data port is used.
17
Program Guides
Using the GUIDE Button
Each press of the GUIDE button takes you to an alternate type of
program guide.
The Detail Guide
The Detail Guide shows five channels in a time-and-channel
format, with program information for the highlighted program.
The Grid Guide
The Grid Guide shows seven channels in a time-and-channel
format.
The SurfGuide
The SurfGuide displays a half-hour format. Press the right arrow
button to extend the SurfGuide to a two-hour format.
Getting Around in the Guides
This section describes how to change channels and move around
the program guide.
Point to Channels with the number keys (0-9)
You can point quickly to any channel in the program guide by
entering the channel number with the number keys (0-9). For
example, to point to channel 228, press the numbers 2-2-8 on the
remote. To point to channel 530, press 5-3-0.
Scrolling Channel By Channel
The programs that you see on the TV screen make up one
section—or page—of the total program guide. You can scroll to
other sections using the arrows: point to other times with the
left and right arrows; point to other channels with the up and
down arrows.
Scrolling Page By Page
If you want to scroll up or down through the program guide
faster, press the Channel Up/Down buttons on the remote
control. The highlight scrolls a page at a time.
By default, the Detail Guide
appears when you press GUIDE on
the remote. You can change the
default guide from the Detail
Guide to the Grid Guide or
SurfGuide.
Select Options from the Main
menu. Select Look and Feel, then
set the Default Guide.
18
Program Guides
Tuning to a Program
To tune directly to a current program listed in the guide, point to
the program and press MENU•SELECT.
To see information about a program in the guide, press INFO.
The Program Details screen appears and gives you
several options.
Then, you can select:
•View Channel to tune to that channel
•Channel Guide to see a program lineup for that channel
•Buy Program to purchase the program
•Other Times to see what other times the program is available.
The program title is automatically entered and sorted in the
AlphaSort control panel.
The options available to you may vary according to the type of
program you select.
The Other Program Guides
Besides the Detail Guide, Grid Guide, and SurfGuide, there are a
few more guides: the Channel Guide, the Logo Guide and the
Attractions Guide.
You can access these guides by selecting the Other Guides button
at the bottom of the Detail Guide and Grid Guide.
Other Guides button
19
Program Guides
The Channel Guide
Displays a channel’s programming schedule in a channel-bychannel format.
The Logo Guide
Displays channel logos for the current user’s profile.
The Attractions Guide
Displays a list of channels that show coming attractions and
special events information.
20
You can point to any program and
tune to that channel or get more
information. Just press the
MENU•SELECT or INFO buttons.
Exiting A Program Guide
There are three ways to exit a
guide:
• Point to a channel and press
MENU•SELECT.
• Point to Exit and press
MENU•SELECT.
• Press CLEAR or GO BACK on the
remote.
Program Guides
Sorting the Guides
Sorting the guide is a way of organizing the guide to show only
the types of programs that interest you. There are several onscreen buttons that sort the guide in different ways.
The Sorting buttons appear at the bottom of the
Grid Guide and Detail Guide.
Topics
The Topics button sorts the guide according to the current user’s
preferences. Select the Topics button to sort the guide.
The Topics button changes to the Topics Themes button. Press
the Topics Themes button to edit the current user’s themes
preferences. These preferences are saved in each user’s profile.
Checkmark the themes that interest you.
Select the categories, and checkmark the themes you would like
to appear when you select the Topics button in the guides.
Programming that fits the description of checkmarked themes
will appear in the guide when you sort by the Topics button.
Topics button
Topics Themes button
21
Program Guides
Movies
Select the Movies button to list movies only. After selecting
Movies, the Movies button changes to a Movies Themes button.
Select the Movies Themes button to sort the guide to list specific
types of movies, such as comedies or musicals.
Select a Movies Themes that interests you.
Movies button
Movies Themes button
Sports
Select the Sports button to list sporting events only. After
selecting Sports, the Sports button changes to a Sports Themes
button.
Select the Sports Themes button to sort the guide to list specific
types of sports, such as basketball or soccer.
Select a Sports Theme that interests you.
All
The All button resets the guide to show all available topics,
channels and listings for the current Profile.
Sports button
Sports Themes button
22
All button
Program Guides
AlphaSort
AlphaSort lists in alphabetical order all the program titles in the
current guide. Select the AlphaSort button to search for specific
program titles that are in the current program guide. Use the
arrow button to highlight a character, then press MENU•SELECT.
For example, to search for the program, Auto Racing, the first
letter you should enter is “A”. (Words like “The”, “A” and “An”
appear at the end of a title.) All titles that begin with “A”
appear in the AlphaSort list. Next, enter the letter “U”. All titles
beginning with “AU” appear in the list.
AlphaSort button
AlphaSort searches for specific titles in the guide.
Continue entering the specific title’s letters until it appears in the
AlphaSort list. If you enter the wrong letter, select either
Backspace or Clear All.
Use the arrow buttons to highlight the title you are looking for.
Press the MENU•SELECT button to select it, or the INFO button to
see more information. Only titles that are in the current program
guide can be found by AlphaSort.
23
Program Guides
Scout
The Scout button lets you assign “Scouts” to search the guide for
very specific program information, such as actor’s names or
program descriptions. Select the Scout button to view the
available scouts.
Point to an available Scout, and select it. Select the Enter Text
button to set up the information the Scout will look for in the
program guide. Use the on-screen keyboard to enter the desired
search parameters.
For example, if you are interested in National Basketball
Association events, enter a common term you might see in
program information, like “NBA”.
Scout button
Select Enter Text to set up a Scout.
If “NBA” appears within a program title or program description,
the program will be included in the Scout Results program list.
The Scouts will search for information when the receiver is off.
(This may take up to 30 minutes for a full guide search.) You can
check a Scout’s results by selecting a Scout.
Scouts look for specific program information.
Use the arrow buttons to highlight the title you are looking for.
Press the MENU•SELECT button to select it, or press INFO to see
more information.
A checkmark next to the Scout
means it is in use.
A highlighted binocular icon
means the Scout has found
something.
24
Program Guides
Other Guides
The Other Guides button lets you sort the guide by different
variables, such as future times, user profile channel lists, and
channel groups. You can then choose a guide format to view the
program information.
Select the Other Guides button. You can select multiple sort
parameters. For example, you could sort the guide by pay-perview movies that are available at a future time.
Select Guide Data and use the arrow and MENU•SELECT buttons
to choose the Guide Data group.
Other Guides button
Guide Data lets you see what’s on in the future.
Then, select PPV in the Channel Groups category.
Channel Groups is another way to sort types of
programming.
Select Exit, or press the GO BACK button on the remote to return
to the previous guide. You can also choose another guide format
from the category list.
25
Program Guides
The other buttons
Exit
Exits the guide and returns you to normal viewing on the current
channel. Press MENU•SELECT to continue.
Help
Brings up additional information about the guide. Press
MENU•SELECT to continue.
Down Arrow
The arrow button allows you to scroll down through other
channels in the guide. Point to the down arrow, and then press
MENU•SELECT to scroll down through the program guide.
Exit button
Help button
Arrow button
The Main menu
Brings up the satellite system Main menu. Press MENU•SELECT to
continue.
Main menu button
26
The Menu System
The Menu System
What’s a Menu?
The satellite system menu is a list of choices, just
like a menu in a restaurant. And, just as a
restaurant menu is divided into sections such as
appetizers, entrees, and desserts, the on-screen
menus are also separated into sections to help
you find the information you need.
Don’t Forget Point and Select
As with all of the on-screen displays, you use
Point and Select to navigate.
First Things First
1
➣
2
Program Guides
➣
The Menu System
3
➣
4
Reference
➣
Appendices
5
Use the MENU•SELECT button to
bring up the Main menu, and
then use Point and Select to
choose a menu option.
27
The Menu System
Using the Menu System
To bring up the Main menu, press MENU•SELECT on the remote.
Use point and select to choose an item from the
Main menu.
To use the menu system, you need to know the Point and Select
rule. Use the arrows on the remote to point to an item on the
screen, and then press MENU•SELECT to select it.
Exit and Help
There are Exit and Help buttons at the top of most screens. Point
to
Exit
and press MENU•SELECT to leave that screen. Point to
Help
to see more information about that screen.
Exiting a Screen
There are three ways to exit a menu:
•Point to
•Press the CLEAR button on the remote control. The on-screen
displays clear from the screen and you return to TV viewing.
•Press the GO BACK button on the remote. You return to the
previous on-screen display or normal programming.
Exit
and press MENU•SELECT.
Using Help
All menus have a Help button. For example, selecting the Help
button from the Main menu shows you information about using
the Main menu screen.
The rest of the Help buttons in the menu system bring up helpful
information explaining one aspect of that menu.
If the Main menu doesn’t appear
when you press MENU•SELECT,
the remote might not be in SAT
mode. Try pressing the SAT button
on the remote, and then
MENU•SELECT.
Context-Sensitive Help
Most of the screens contain
information to help you decide
what to do next. If you get stuck,
look for the help text.
28
The Menu System
Menu Descriptions
This section briefly describes each of the available Main menu
options. More information about each menu and its features is
included later in this chapter.
Program Guide
Shows the on-screen programming schedules.
Mailbox
Use to read mail messages from your program providers.
Purchases
Use to review or cancel upcoming purchases, and to review
past purchases.
Timers
Allows you to schedule the satellite system to tune to a specific
channel at a specific time.
Profiles
Allows you to set ratings limits, spending limits, and viewing
hours, as well as create favorite channel lists.
Options
Allows you to find out more about the receiver and remote,
change how your system looks, run the system test and install a
new access card.
Dish Pointing
Use to find your dish pointing coordinates, and to access the
on-screen signal strength meter.
Home Control
With the proper equipment, this feature lets you control certain
devices and appliances in your house.
Don’t Be Afraid to Explore
Once you’ve learned the basics, feel free to poke around the
menu system because exploring is the best way to learn. The
context-sensitive help at the bottom of the screen provides
instructions for getting through any particular menu or control
panel. Remember, press CLEAR at any time to leave the menu
system and return to regular satellite system viewing.
Don’t Forget about the
CLEAR button
Press the CLEAR button on the
remote to remove the on-screen
menus and return to normal
viewing.
29
The Menu System
The Program Guide
Selecting Program Guide brings up your default program guide:
the Detail Guide, the Grid Guide or SurfGuide.
Anatomy of a Program Guide
The following diagram shows you the kind of information you
will see in the Detail Guide and Grid Guide.
Program titles
and information
Returns you to
previous screen
Help gives you
more information
Sort the guide by:
Topics, Movies, or Sports
“Family” is one of five
selectable Profiles
Scrolls through
the guide
Indicates current time
Takes you to
the Main menu
Displays more
sorting options
Searches guide for
specific information
Sorts the current guide
alphabetically by title
Shows all available programs
Bringing Up the Program Guides
Besides selecting Program Guide in the Main menu, you can press
the GUIDE button on the remote.
30
Want More Information?
Read the chapter “Program
Guides” earlier in this book for all
the details.
The Menu System
The Mailbox
The mailbox shows you messages that are sent—or “mailed”—
from your program providers. For example, you may receive a
message calling your attention to a new service.
How to tell when you have mail
There are two ways to tell if you have mail, depending on
whether the receiver is turned on or off.
•If the receiver is turned on, the mail icon in the channel
banner is highlighted.
•If the receiver is turned off, the power light on the front
panel of the receiver flashes.
Checking your mail
Select Mailbox on the Main menu or channel banner to view
your mail.
1. Point to a message and press MENU•SELECT. The message is
opened for you to read.
Mail provides the latest information from program
providers.
2. Press MENU•SELECT again to close the letter.
After you read a message and want to erase it, point to Erase
Message and press MENU•SELECT. When you exit the display
screen, messages not erased are saved in memory.
31
The Menu System
Pay-Per-View Programs
Pay-per-view programs (PPV) are programs that you purchase—
like a movie ticket—on an event-by-event basis. For instance,
there might be a specific channel that runs nothing but previews
for movies. After previewing the movie, you can purchase it or
find out more details about it. PPV programs can also be found
in the program guide.
Purchasing and Previewing
There are several ways to purchase and preview PPV movies and
events:
•Tune to a PPV program’s channel. Program providers may
offer on-screen purchase instructions, usually as the PPV
program begins.
•Select a PPV program from the program guide.
•Preview a coming attraction by selecting a channel from the
Attractions Guide.
Tuning to a PPV Program
When you use the channel buttons or digits on the remote to
tune to a Pay-Per-View channel, you need to press the INFO
button to bring up the Program Details screen in order to
purchase a program.
Use the program guide to get to the Program
Details screen.
Follow the on-screen instructions to purchase the selected
program.
You may need to enter your fourdigit password to order a PPV
program if it costs more than the
spending limit you set up in the
Profiles menu.
32
The Menu System
Using the Program Guide for PPV
Programs
When you use the program guide to select a PPV program, the
Program Details screen gives you a few more options.
The Program Details screen gives you several
options.
You can select:
•View Channel to tune to that channel
•Channel Guide to see a program lineup for that channel
•Buy Program to purchase the program
•Other Times to see what other times the program is available.
The program title is automatically entered and sorted in the
AlphaSort control panel.
The options available to you may vary according to the type of
program you select.
You need to connect your phone
line to your satellite receiver to be
able to order PPV programs using
the on-screen menus.
33
The Menu System
Using the Attractions Guide
Your program providers may offer future programming events
not currently listed in your Program guide. These events are
called “coming attractions,” and can be previewed in the
Attractions Guide.
1. Press the GUIDE button until the Detail Guide or Grid Guide
appears on-screen.
2. Use the down arrow button to move the highlight to the
bottom of the screen.
3. Point to and select the Other Guides button.
4. Point to and select the Attractions Guide.
The Other Guides menu provides several guide
formats.
5. Point to a channel and select it.
The Attractions Guide is accessed through the
Other Guides menu.
34
The Menu System
Using the Purchases Menu
The Purchases menu allows you to review upcoming and past
purchases.
The Purchases menu shows you upcoming or past
purchases, and spending limits.
The list of purchases may be longer than one screen; use the
down arrow keys to see more items. The display also shows the
title, channel, date, time, and cost of each program.
•Note that the Past Purchases list might be modified after
each billing cycle and still show purchases for which you have
already paid.
Reviewing and Canceling an
Upcoming Purchase
Use Point and Select to choose an upcoming purchase from the
Future Purchases screen. You can review the program description,
as well as cancel an upcoming purchase.
The Purchase Edit screen lets you cancel an
upcoming purchase.
35
The Menu System
Spending Limits
Use the Spending Limit option to indicate a per-event spending
limit for pay-per-view programs.
1. Point to Spending Limit, and press MENU•SELECT.
You can set a per-event spending limit for each
Profile.
Spending limits are in effect only
when the system is locked.
2. Use the digits on the remote or use the arrow keys to enter a
single-program spending limit.
After a spending limit is set and the system is locked, you must
enter a password to purchase a pay-per-view program that costs
more than your spending limit allows.
Timers Feature
The Timers feature allows you to preset your system to
automatically tune to a particular channel at a predetermined
time.
To use the Timers feature, select
bring up the Timers screen. Select a Timer (1-8) and then use the
arrow keys to complete the on-screen sentence. When the
sentence is complete, select
Timers
Run Timer
from the Main menu to
.
On-screen icons are an easy way
to understand the timers.
indicates the timer is set.
indicates the timer is set for
a PPV.
indicates a timer conflict.
Editing or Canceling a Timer
From the Timers screen, select the
Timer you want to edit or cancel,
and then do the following:
• Use the arrows keys to edit the
Timer , then select Run Timer.
36
Complete the on-screen sentence to set up a timer.
• Select Clear Timer to cancel the
timer.
• To watch the program daily
or weekly, edit that program’s
timer.
The Menu System
Profiles
When you select Profiles from the Main menu, the first screen
you see is the User Profiles control panel. In addition to the
Family profile, you can create as many as four different profiles
that can be easily accessed by using the WHO•INPUT button on
the remote control.
You can personalize how the profile looks on-screen by entering
a name and selecting a picture.
You can personalize each profile.
You can also edit the user profiles. Select a profile from the Edit
Users control panel. By moving down the options you can create
or edit the user’s channel list, set a ratings limit, viewing hours,
per-event spending limits and assign a profile password.
Creating a profile Channel List
1. Point to and select
2. Point to a channel list option and press MENU•SELECT.
To start, you can add or delete all channels.
3. Use the arrow keys to point to a channel, and press
MENU•SELECT to remove (or replace) the checkmark.
Checkmarked items appear in the channel list.
Edit Users,
then choose a user.
You need to lock the system in
order for rating limits, channel
limits, viewing hours, and
spending limits to go into effect.
After you lock the system, you
need to enter the system
password to edit the limits. See
“Locking the System” for details
37
The Menu System
Add or Delete All Channels
You might be able to save time when creating a channel list by
using the Add All Chans option or the Delete All Chans option to
either add all channels or delete all channels before removing or
adding individual channels.
Also, program providers may make additional channels available.
To prevent new channels from appearing in a profile channel list,
choose Delete All Chans and checkmark only the channels you
want to appear in the list.
Setting the Ratings Limit
The Ratings Limit menu enables you to set a maximum viewing
limit for rated movies (based on the MPAA ratings system), as
long as the program provider has transmitted the proper code.
•Note that the ratings limit cannot be enforced if a program
has not been rated, if rating information for that program is
not transmitted by the program provider, or if the system has
not been locked.
1. Point to Set Rating Limit and press MENU•SELECT.
Use the arrow keys to move the selector up and
down.
2. Use the up and down arrows to move the rating selector to
the highest rating you want to be able to view. In the
preceding illustration, movies that are rated up to and
including a “PG-13” rating can be viewed.
After the Rating Limit is set and the system is locked, you must
enter the system password to watch programs with a rating
higher than your limit.
38
The Menu System
Viewing Hours
Use the Viewing Hours option to limit the total amount of time,
as well as the viewing hours a user can watch programming.
1. Point to Viewing Hours, and press MENU•SELECT.
You can limit viewing seven days a week.
2. Use the digits on the remote or point to the + or – and press
MENU•SELECT to complete the on-screen sentence. Choose
how many hours can be viewed each day (0-24 hours) and
when programming can be viewed. Be sure to lock the
system for these limits to take effect.
Setting Up Spending Limits
Select the Spending Limit option to indicate a per-event
spending limit for pay-per-view programs.
1. Point to Spending Limit, and press MENU•SELECT.
You can set a per-event spending limit for each
profile.
2. Use the digits on the remote or use the arrow keys to enter a
single-program spending limit.
After a Spending Limit is set and the system is locked, you must
enter the system password to purchase a pay-per-view program
that costs more than your Spending Limit allows.
39
The Menu System
Locking a User’s Profile
Each user can be assigned a personal password to lock his or her
profile. When a password is assigned, the user must enter the
password before he or she can view programs using that profile.
Profile passwords do no allow access to, or editing of the profile
limits. You must enter the system password to edit profile limits.
1. Point to
Each user can have a password.
2. Use the arrow or digit keys to select each number of the
password.
Lock User
and press MENU•SELECT.
Locking the System
You can lock the system in order to put into effect the ratings,
spending, viewing, and channel limits you have set up. When you
lock the system, no one can modify any of these settings without
first entering the four-digit system password.
1. Point to Lock System and press MENU•SELECT.
Locking the system protects the limits you set up.
2. Use the arrows or the digit keys to enter a four-digit
system password.
3. Enter the password a second time to confirm it.
40
After the system has been locked,
you must enter the correct
password in order to access the
Edit Users control panel.
Don’t Forget Your Password
If you forget a USER password,
you need to unlock the system
and then assign a new user
password.
If you forget the SYSTEM
password, contact your program
provider’s authorization center.
The Menu System
Unlocking the System
When the system is unlocked, the channel, spending, viewing,
and ratings limits, that you have set are no longer in effect.
1. Point to Unlock System and press MENU•SELECT.
2. Point to Yes and press MENU•SELECT to confirm that you
want to unlock the system.
Session Unlock
If your system is locked and you attempt to access a channel or
program that is blocked by one or more limits, you are asked to
enter the four-digit system password to override the system lock.
If you enter the password to override the rating or spending
limit, all limits are unlocked until you turn off the receiver. When
you turn on the receiver again, the system will be locked, and the
Family profile channel list will be selected. You can also re-lock
the system by selecting the lock icon in the channel banner.
Choosing Your Profile
Each time that you turn on the receiver, the Family profile is
selected by default. To select a different Profile:
1. Press the WHO•INPUT button to scroll through the profiles.
The WHO button toggles through the profiles.
2. When your profile appears, enter your four-digit personal
password to activate your profile.
•If the profile is not password protected, you can just press
MENU•SELECT to activate it.
The channel, spending, ratings and viewing limits will reflect the
chosen profile only when the system is locked.
The Lock/Unlock icons in the
channel banner provide an easy
way to lock or unlock the system.
Just point and select to change
the lock status.
Green Unlock icon The system is
unlocked. Spending, viewing and
other limits can be accessed and
changed.
Yellow Unlock icon A password
has been entered to override
family or profile limits. No limits
can be accessed or changed.
Red Lock icon No limits can be
accessed or changed. A password
is required to override limits or
access the system.
41
The Menu System
Options
The Options menu lets you set up preferences for the look and
feel of the system as well as how some of the features work.
The Options menu lets you change how the
system works.
The following sections explain your options when changing your
personal preferences. Follow the on-screen instructions to make
changes to the system.
Interactive Setup
If you self-installed your satellite dish antenna, you may have
already used the interactive setup to find the dish pointing
coordinates, acquire and fine-tune the signal, and run a system
test. If you just want to check your dish pointing coordinates, or
run the signal strength meter, select Dish Pointing from the Main
menu.
System Info
Select System Info from the Options menu to choose from a list
of on-line Help topics. Point and select to find out about the
specific parts of the satellite system, then use the right arrow key
to continue through each of the Help screens or press
MENU•SELECT to return to the Help menu.
Program Guide shows a screen-by-screen overview of the
Program guide features.
Menu System shows a screen-by-screen overview of the system
menus.
Remote Control shows an on-screen display of the remote
control. Point to the different remote buttons to see a brief
description of the highlighted button. Remotes may vary by
model.
42
The Menu System
Front Panel shows an on-screen display of the receiver front
panel. Point to the different front panel features to see a brief
description of the highlighted feature.
Back Panel shows an on-screen display of the receiver back
panel. Point to the different back panel features to see a brief
description of the highlighted feature.
Glossary shows a list of common satellite system and TV terms.
Point to a glossary item to see a brief description.
Look and Feel
Default Guide lets you choose which guide appears first when
you press the GUIDE button on the remote. The choices are Grid
Guide, Detail Guide and SurfGuide.
Color Scheme lets you pick which color appears in the guides
and menu system.
Translucency lets you choose the translucency of the menu
displays. Slide the indicator bar to make the screens more
opaque or less opaque.
Animation lets you turn animation on or off. Animation
appears on-screen only when music channels are selected.
System Options
System Test The System Test display screen is accessed through
the Options menu, and allows you to initiate diagnostic
procedures on the satellite system. You should use this feature to
get your Access Card number, or when your receiver doesn’t
seem to be working correctly. There are four separate tests:
signal, tuning, phone connection, and access card.
A message screen appears, telling you whether the system
passed each test. If your system fails a test, run the system test
several times before concluding that there is a problem.
Occasional fluctuations in the phone line or satellite signal can
give temporary false readings.
43
The Menu System
New Access Card Periodically, your program provider may issue
you a replacement access card. The New Access Card Setup
display screen allows you to transfer the information from the
old card onto the new one.
Follow the display screen prompts to initialize your new card.
Once you have transferred the information to the new card, your
old card becomes invalid.
Because your specific account information is stored in the access
card, power failures should have no effect on your system.
Remote Setup Some remotes have two SAT buttons and can
control two digital satellite receivers. Choose which remote
button, SAT1 or SAT2, will control the receiver.
Picture Size The Picture size display screen allows you to choose
between a standard TV screen and a Cinema option. A standard
TV screen has an aspect ratio of 4:3; the Cinema option has an
aspect ratio of 16:9.
Data Port Let’s you choose whether the low speed data port is
used for low speed data or communicating with the Home
Control Base accessory. See the Home Control section in this book
for more information.
Audio Language
When you select Audio Language from the Options menu, the
Audio Language display screen comes up.
Point to the audio language or audio type you want and press
MENU•SELECT. The system will then automatically set the audio
program to the selected audio program type when that type is
available.
There are two ways to change the audio:
•Press ALT AUD on the remote to temporarily change the
Audio program while tuned to the current channel.
•Point to Audio Language from the Options menu and press
MENU•SELECT to set the default Audio Language.
Alternate Data
Selects from among the available data on the current channel.
44
The Menu System
The Dish Pointing Menu Screen
Follow these steps to obtain your dish pointing coordinates:
1. Turn on your television and satellite receiver.
2. Tune your television to the satellite receiver’s output channel.
3. Press MENU•SELECT on the remote or front panel to bring up
the Main menu.
4. Use the arrows to highlight the “Dish Pointing” option, and
then press MENU•SELECT to access the dish pointing screen.
NOTE: The menu screen that you see may be slightly different
from the one pictured here.
5. Use the arrows on the remote or the front panel to highlight
“Zip Code” and then press MENU•SELECT.
6. Enter the zip code for the dish installation location.
7. Record the elevation and azimuth numbers below.
Elevation ___________Azimuth __________
Elevation is the up/
down angle that the
dish is pointed.
Azimuth is side to
side direction that
the dish is pointed.
You only need to use one of the
available methods to find your
dish pointing coordinates. If you
know the zip code for the locality
where the dish is being installed,
use that.
45
The Menu System
Using the On-Screen Signal Meter
The signal strength meter is used to determine whether or not
you are receiving the satellite signal, and it also indicates the
strength of the satellite signal.
Follow these steps to bring up the on-screen signal meter:
1. Turn on your television and satellite receiver.
2. Tune your television to the satellite receiver’s output
channel.
3. Press MENU•SELECT on the remote or front panel to bring
up the Main menu.
4. Use the arrows to highlight the “Dish Pointing” option, and
then press MENU•SELECT to access the dish pointing screen.
5. Use the arrows on the remote or the front panel to highlight
“Signal Meter” and then press MENU•SELECT.
If the dish is pointed to the correct azimuth and
elevation, the signal meter will show you the
current signal strength (and you should hear a
continuous tone).
If you are not receiving a signal, you need to incrementally
adjust the azimuth setting on the dish. After you receive a
signal, you will want to continue to adjust the azimuth to try to
get the best possible signal.
Important
Changing transponders is not the same as fine-tuning the dish.
Although the signal strength may appear to change, this may be
due to different types of interference. To fine-tune the dish,
consult the Satellite Dish Antenna Installation Guide and follow
the instructions on adjusting the dish elevation and azimuth.
Peak Signal
The “Peak Signal” indicates the
highest signal strength you have
obtained, which is not necessarily
the highest possible signal.
While the maximum signal
strength is 100, the signal
strength you achieve will
probably be less. Although there
is no difference in picture quality
between a signal strength of 60
and 85, the higher the signal, the
less likely you are to experience
negative effects in degraded
conditions such as rain or snow
(called “rain fade”).
46
The Menu System
Home Control
Home Control lets you remotely control several lamps and
appliances through your receiver.
Home Control setup
The Home Control Data Interface connects to the LOW SPEED
DATA port on the back of the receiver. Once connected, you
must tell the receiver to use this port for Home Control.
1. Press MENU•SELECT to bring up the Main menu.
2. Point to and select Options.
3. Point to and select System Options.
4. Point to and select Data Port and choose Home Control as
the default setting
To control devices, you must
connect a Home Control Data
Interface to the receiver and a
remote module to the device you
want to control. The Home
Control Data Interface connects to
the LOW SPEED DATA port on the
back of the receiver.
Device Setup
1. From the Main menu select Home Control.
Home Control can control several devices.
2. Select a device you would like to control.
3. Complete the on-screen sentence using the arrow buttons
and MENU•SELECT. Press MENU•SELECT to scroll through the
lists of appliances and locations.
LOW SPEED DATA PORT
Once connected, you must tell the
receiver to use this port for Home
Control.
These devices are available as
accessories sold through your
digital satellite dealer or the
accessories order form at the back
of this book.
Keep track of devices by assigning a label.
47
The Menu System
4. Use the arrow buttons and MENU•SELECT to select the house
and module codes that match the device’s remote module
and label the module. Select Save Setup to complete the
setup.
Device Control
Once the device is set up, there are two ways to control it; with
the menu system, or with a timer. Select a device from the Home
Control menu screen. You can then, turn it on, turn it off, or
adjust the brightness for lamp modules.
Select Edit Setup to change a device.
Control the device from the menu.
To schedule a timer:
1. Select Set T imer.
2. Schedule a timer by completing the on-screen sentence.
Complete the on-screen sentence to schedule a
timer.
3. Use the arrows and MENU•SELECT to enter an on and off
time.
4. Point to and select Run Timer.
Clear Timer removes all the timer information.
Suspend turns off the timer, but saves the timer information.
On-screen icons are an easy way
to understand the timers.
indicates the timer is set.
indicates the timer is
suspended.
You can schedule several timers to
control the same device at
different times.
48
Reference
Reference
How It All Works
Although the digital satellite system is simple
to use, there are a number of parts in the
system. Don’t be overwhelmed. This section
explains how these different parts work
together to bring a picture to your screen.
What’s It For?
This section also describes the controls located
on the front and back of the receiver.
First Things First
1
➣
Program Guides
2
➣
The Menu System
3
➣
Reference
4
➣
Appendices
5
49
Reference
Home View
These parts are inside of or attached to your house.
Satellite DishReceiverTelephone Jack
Access Card
Remote Control
Satellite Dish Antenna Picks up the satellite’s coded program information and relays it to your receiver.
(Your satellite dish may be installed in different locations on or around your house. The satellite dish antenna
must, however, be pointed in a southern direction toward the satellite.)
Digital Satellite Receiver Receives the TV program information and sends it to your TV or VCR.
Telephone Jack Connects to the phone jack on the back of the receiver. The receiver uses a toll-free number
once a month to update your access card. This update only takes a few seconds and ensures that you will have
continuous service. The system automatically hangs up if you pick up the phone when the receiver is calling
out.
Television If your television is remote controllable, you can program the remote to change channels and
volume.
Remote (included with your satellite system) Controls the system as well as most remote controllable TVs.
Point the remote at the device you want to control.
Access Card (installed in receiver) Must be inserted for you to use the system! Provides system security and
authorization of program services. Do not remove the card except when issued a new card as a replacement for
the original.
50
Reference
Front Panel Controls
ON/OFF
INFO
ANTENNA
ON/OFF Turns the receiver’s power on or off.
INFO Brings up the on-screen channel banner.
ANTENNA Switches the source of the video signal from satellite signals to an off-air antenna or cable signal.
ARROWS Press the navigation arrows to move the on-screen highlight up, down, left, or right. Using the
arrows to highlight a menu item is also called “pointing.” The up and down arrows also change channels.
MENU•SELECT Brings up the Main menu. If you are already in the menu system, press MENU•SELECT to
select a highlighted choice.
ACCESS CARD Identifies you to your program providers. The system requires a valid access card.
MENU
SELECT
Back Panel Controls
OUT
TO
TV
FROM
S-VIDEOVIDEORLAUDIO
CH 4
IN
CH 3
ANT
SATELLITE IN
LOW SPEED DATA
OUT TO TV Use to connect the receiver to your TV. However, if your TV has audio/video jacks, you should use
those jacks to get better picture and sound quality.
IN FROM ANT Use to connect an off-air antenna or cable TV signal to the system.
CH3/CH4 SWITCH If a coaxial cable is used to connect the receiver to your TV, you must set the CH3/CH4
SWITCH. For example, to see the signal on TV channel 3, set the switch to 3.
S-VIDEO Provides the best picture quality. If your TV has S-VIDEO capability, use this jack along with the audio/
video jacks to connect the receiver to your TV.
VIDEO Provides better picture quality than the OUT TO TV jack. If your TV has audio/video capability, use this
jack to connect the receiver to your TV. You must also connect the AUDIO jacks.
AUDIO (R and L) Provide better sound quality than the OUT TO TV jack. If your TV has audio/video capability,
use these jacks to connect the receiver to your TV. You must also connect the VIDEO jack.
PHONE JACK
SATELLITE IN Use to connect the receiver to the satellite dish antenna.
LOW SPEED DATA PORT this port allows you to connect the system to accessories, such as the Home Control
base module.
PHONE JACK Use to connect a phone line to the receiver. The system requires a phone line connection to
periodically call out to program providers.
51
Reference
Remote Control Buttons
ON•OFF Turns the device you are controlling on or off.
TV Tells the remote to control the TV.
SAT Turns on the receiver and tells the remote to control system
functions.
GUIDE Brings up the on-screen program guide. Press the GUIDE
button several times to toggle through the different types of
guides.
MENU•SELECT Brings up the Main menu. If you are already in
the menu system, press MENU•SELECT to select a highlighted
choice.
ARROWS Use the navigation arrows to move the on-screen
highlight up, down, left, or right. Using the arrows to highlight a
menu item is also called “pointing.”
INFO Brings up the on-screen channel banner. Press again to
get program details.
CLEAR Removes the on screen displays and return to normal
viewing.
GO BACK Moves you back and forth between your last two
selected channels. In the menu system, returns you to the
previous screen.
ON
OFF
•
SELECT
MENU
•
CLEAR
213
546
879
0
WHO•INPUT
ANTMUTEALT AUD
SATTV
INFOGUIDE
GO BACK
CHAN
VOL
DIGIT KEYS (0 - 9) Use the digit keys to tune directly to a
channel. If you are in the menu system, use the digit keys to
enter numbers for the time, date, channel and passwords.
CHAN UP/DOWN Use to scan up and down through the
channels in the current channel list. If you are in the program
guide or menu system, use the CHAN UP/DOWN buttons to page
up and down a screen at a time.
VOL UP/DOWN Adjusts the audio volume.
ANT Lets you switch the source of the video signal from
satellite signals to an off-air antenna or cable signal. In TV mode,
press the WHO•INPUT button one or more times to toggle
through the available video inputs.
ALT AUD (Alternate Audio) Use to toggle through the
available languages or audio types for a program.
MUTE Turns off the sound. Press again to restore the sound.
52
Reference
Programming the Remote Control
The remote can be programmed to control most brands of
remote controllable TVs. The remote is programmed to control
most RCA, GE and ProScan TVs. The remote needs to be
programmed to control other manufacturers’ brands.
Programming the Remote to Control
Your TV
To determine whether your remote needs to be programmed,
turn the TV on, point the remote at the TV, and press the TV
button. Then press CHAN UP or DOWN to see whether the TV
responds to the remote commands.
Follow these steps to program your remote to control your TV.
1. Turn on the TV.
2. Look up your brand and code number(s) on the TV Code list
on the following pages.
3. Press and hold the TV button.
4. Enter the three-digit code from the code list.
5. Release the TV button and press OFF•ON or CHAN UP/DOWN
to see if the TV responds to the remote commands. If it
doesn’t, try the next code listed for your brand.
6. Repeat these steps until the TV responds to the remote
commands.
Using the Remote Buttons to Control a Device
Once the remote has been programmed with the correct codes,
you are ready to use it to control your devices.
To operate the device:
1. Press the device button (TV, SAT) to set the remote to control
the device.
This remote may not operate all
models of the brands that are
shown. Use the codes shown in
this manual, or on the sheet
packed with your remote.
After you program the remote to
control your TV, record your TV
code here for easy reference.
2. Press OFF•ON to turn the device off or on.
3. Use the remote buttons that apply to that device.
The System Test allows you to run a basic diagnostics check on
your digital satellite system. If you are experiencing any trouble
with your system, bring up the Main menu, select Options, then
System Options and run the system test.
Make sure that
• All connections—jacks, cables, etc. are correctly in place. See
the section, Connecting Your Receiver, for more information.
•There are batteries in the remote, and that they are working
correctly.
•The access card is installed in the receiver.
54
Appendix A: Warranty Information
Repair Help
Thomson Consumer Electronics offers hardware repair service should you encounter any problems with your
digital satellite system. Many problems can be diagnosed over the phone, or if necessary, a replacement unit
can be shipped to you. Please have your digital satellite system model, serial number and date ofpurchase ready when you call. If your unit is out of warranty, we will quote the cost of an exchange unit to
you. Refer to RCA Digital Satellite System Limited Warranty for the repair service phone number.
Returning Equipment to Thomson for Repair or Exchange
If we are unable to resolve your problem over the phone we will gladly service your unit or exchange it for a
new or refurbished unit. Refer to the limited warranty included in the booklet to learn about your specific
rights and responsibilities. Always consult Thomson and get a Return Authorization number before returninganything. Obtain a Return Authorization (RA) number from the telephone representative before returning
your equipment to avoid delays, accounting errors, or even loss of your unit.
Important Information to Customers Who Ship Defective Equipment to Thomson
Consumer Electronics
The Thomson representative who authorizes the return of your equipment will give you an RA number over
the phone. The representative will also provide you with instructions on where and how to return your unit.
Write the number in large, clear characters on the outside of the box. To avoid confusion and
misunderstandings, shipments without an RA number clearly visible on the outside of the box will be returned
to you at your expense.
Include a brief note describing the problem and any conversations you have had with Thomson personnel
about the problem. Include your name, address and model/serial number of your unit. These numbers are
located on the back of your receiver. If your digital satellite system is within the warranty period, please
provide a copy of the bill of sale to verify purchase date. Use the original box and packing material to protect
the equipment from damage in shipment. For your protection, insure all shipments for full replacementvalue and use a reliable shipper. Thomson assumes no responsibility for warranty shipments from the
customer to the factory if not shipped in the manner prescribed by Thomson.
55
Appendix A: Warranty Information
RCA DIGITAL SATELLITE SYSTEM LIMITED WARRANTY
What your warranty covers:
•Any defect in materials or workmanship.
For how long after your purchase:
•90 days - Unit exchange, which includes parts and labor.
•91 days to 1 year - Unit exchange, which includes parts only; you pay the labor.
•The warranty for rental units begins with the first rental or 45 days from date of shipment to the rental
firm, whichever comes first.
What we will do:
•During the initial 90 days:
Exchange the defective portion of your digital satellite system with a new or, at our option, refurbished
unit.
•After the 90 days and within one year:
Exchange the defective portion of your digital satellite system with a new or, at our option, refurbished
unit. We will charge you a flat exchange cost to replace a defective receiver. This charge covers the labor
cost for its repair.
How you get service:
•Call 1-800-679-4776 and have your unit’s date of purchase and model/serial number ready. The model/
serial number information is on the back of your receiver.
•A representative will troubleshoot your problem over the phone.
•If the representative determines that you should receive a replacement receiver you will be provided with a
Return Authorization (RA) number and the location of a nearby exchange point if one exists. No returns
will be accepted without the RA number.
•If the representative determines that your antenna/dish is defective he or she will arrange for its repair or
replacement.
To receive a replacement receiver before you return yours:
If you are located near an exchange point:
1. We will send a replacement unit to our exchange point.
2. The exchange location will notify you of its arrival.
3. Take your unit and evidence of purchase date, such as a bill of sale, to the exchange location and you will
be provided the new or refurbished unit. Please retain all accessories such as the remote control hand unit.
4. If the repairs are covered by your warranty, you will not be billed.
If you are not located near an exchange point:
1. Provide your Discover, Mastercard or Visa account number and expiration date to your phone
representative. This is for security purposes only and your account will not be charged at this time.
2. We will send you a replacement unit.
3. If you return the unit to us within 14 days from the date you were provided a RA number, only items not
covered by warranty will be charged to your account. If your unit is not received within 14 days, the
suggested retail value of the receiver will be charged to your credit card. This amount will be credited if
the unit is subsequently received.
4. Ship your defective unit back to us using the replacement unit’s carton. Shipping instructions will be
included on the carton along with your RA number which will allow you to easily ship the unit back to us.
Make sure you insure your shipment in case of damage or loss. Include with the shipment:
•Evidence of purchase date such as a bill of sale.
•A brief note describing your receiver problem.
•Your name, address and phone number.
Thomson assumes no responsibility of warranty shipments from the customer to the factory if not
shipped in the manner prescribed by Thomson.
56
Appendix A: Warranty Information
To receive a replacement receiver after we have received your unit:
•Write the RA number on the outside of the carton used to return the unit. Make sure you insure your
shipment in case of damage or loss.
•Carefully pack the unit using the original box and packing material if possible. Please retain all accessories
that were included with your unit such as the remote control hand unit.
•Include with the shipment:
1.Evidence of purchase date such as a bill of sale.
2.A brief note describing your receiver problem.
3.Your name, address and phone number.
•The representative will advise the address to mail a cashier’s check or money order for payment if there are
any out of warranty labor or parts charges, and you elect not to use your credit card.
•After we receive your product, a new or refurbished unit will be shipped to you.
What your warranty does not cover:
•Acts of God, such as but not limited to lightning damage.
•Adjustment of customer controls.
•Damage from misuse or neglect.
•A unit that has been modified or incorporated into other products or is used for institutional or other
commercial purposes.
•Batteries.
•Units purchased, serviced or operated outside the continental U.S.A. and Alaska.
•For units intended for use in Alaska, this warranty does not cover installation or the dish antenna. It only
covers the receiver.
•Loss of programming.
•Installation.
•Shipping damage if the unit was not packed and shipped in the manner prescribed by Thomson.
•Storage fees may be charged by the exchange point if you fail to pickup the replacement unit in a timely
manner.
Product Registration:
•Please complete and mail the Product Registration Card packed with your digital satellite product. It will
make it easier to contact you should it ever be necessary. The return of the card is not required for a
warranty coverage.
How state law relates to warranty:
•This warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may have other rights that vary from state to state.
If you purchased your product outside the United States:
•This warranty does not apply. See your dealer for warranty information.
57
Appendix B: FCC Regulations
FCC Registration Information
Your digital satellite system equipment is registered with the Federal Communications Commission and is in
compliance with parts 15B and 68, FCC Rules and Regulations.
1. Notification to the Local Telephone Company.
On the bottom of this equipment is a label indicating among other information, the FCC Registration number
and Ringer Equivalence Number (REN) for the equipment. You must, upon request, provide this information to
your telephone company.
The REN is useful to determine the number of devices you may connect to your telephone line and still have all
these devices ring when your telephone number is called. In most (but not all) areas, the sum of the RENs of all
devices connected to one line should not exceed 5. To be certain of the number of devices you may connect to
your line as determined by the REN, you should contact your local telephone company.
Notes: This equipment may not be used on coin service provided by the telephone company.
Party lines are subject to state tariffs, and therefore, you may not be able to use your own telephone equipment
if you are on a party line. Check with your local telephone company.
Notice must be given to the telephone company upon permanent disconnection of your digital satellite system
equipment from your line.
2. Rights of the Telephone Company.
-
Should your equipment cause trouble on your line which may harm the telephone network, the telephone
company shall, where practicable, notify you that temporary discontinuance of service may be required. Where
prior notice is not practicable and the circumstances warrant such action, the telephone company may
temporarily discontinue service immediately. In case of such temporary discontinuance, the telephone company
must: (1) promptly notify you of such temporary discontinuance (2) afford you the opportunity to correct the
situation and (3) inform you of your right to bring a complaint to the Commission pursuant to procedures set
forth in Subpart E of Part 68, FCC Rules and Regulations.
The telephone company may make changes in its communications facilities, equipment, operations of procedures
where such action is required in the operation of its business and not inconsistent with FCC Rules and
Regulations. If these changes are expected to affect the use or performance of your telephone equipment, the
telephone company must give you adequate notice, in writing, to allow you to maintain uninterrupted service.
Radio Interference
This equipment has been type tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B Digital Device in
accordance with the specifications in Part 15 of FCC Rules. These rules are designed to provide reasonable
protection against radio and television interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses
and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may
cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not
occur in a particular installation.
If this equipment does cause interference to radio or television reception (which you can determine by turning
the equipment off and on), try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures.
•Reorient or relocate the receiving antenna (that is, the antenna for radio or television that is “receiving” the
interference).
•Change the position of the satellite receiver with respect to the radio or television equipment that is
receiving interference.
•Move the satellite receiver away from the equipment that is receiving interference.
•Plug the satellite receiver into a different wall outlet so that the satellite receiver and the equipment
receiving interference are on different branch circuits.
If these measures do not eliminate the interference, please consult your dealer or an experienced radio/television
technician for additional suggestions. Also, the Federal Communications Commission has prepared a helpful
booklet, “How To Identify and Resolve Radio/TV Interference Problems”. This booklet is available from the U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402. Please specify stock number 004-000-00345-4 when
ordering copies.
58
Appendix C: Accessories
Accessory Order Form for Digital Satellite Systems
RG-6 Coaxial Burial Cable
GUIDE FETCH
M
S
E
WHO
INFO
C
L
O
V
MUTE
C
1
2
5
4
7
8
INPUT
0
with weatherproof “F”
connectors
Self-Installer’s Kit
contains cable and
hardware to install the
dish and connect the
system.
SAT1TVPOWER
SAT
2
N
E
U
T
L
C
E
CLEAR
ALT. AUD
+
H
V
O
L
H
-
GO BACK
3
6
9
ANTENNA
Remote Control replaces
a lost remote. Or, order a
second remote for
convenience.
HCDSS10 Home Control
Kit contains a Data
Interface that connects to
the receiver, and a lamp
module.
HC10LM Lamp module
lets you control
incandescent lamps. Use
to dim/brighten and turn
lamps on/off.
HC20AM or HC30AM
Appliance modules turn
small appliances, like
coffee pots, popcorn
makers, or stereo, on or
off. Also controls nonincandescent lamps
Choose 2 prong
(HC20AM) or 3 prong
(HC30AM).
Prices are subject to change without notice.
Total Merchandise...............................................................
We are required by law to collect the appropriate sales tax
for each individual state, country, and locality to which
the merchandise is being sent.
Shipping, Handling, and Insurance .....................................
Total Amount Enclosed........................................................
Use VISA, MasterCard, or Discover preferably.
Money order or check must be in U.S. currency only.
✂
No COD or CASH.
$
$
$ 5.00
$
All accessories are subject to availability.
Detach Here
Please complete other side also
59
Appendix C: Accessories
Charge your order on your VISA,
MasterCard, or Discover Card by
USE YOUR CREDIT CARD
IMPORTANT: Copy complete account number
IMPORTANT: Copy complete account number
Copy Number
above your
name on
MasterCard
IMPORTANT: Copy complete account number
filling in below
from your VISA card
My card expires:
from your MasterCard
My card
expires:
from your Discover Card
United States and Canada Orders
To place your order by phone, have your Visa,
®
s
rr
TM
MasterCard or Discover Card ready and call the toll-free
number listed below between 8AM and 10PM (EST)
Monday through Friday or between 9AM and 5PM (EST)
Saturday.
Use this number only to place on order for accessory
items listed on this order form.
1-800-338-0376
To place your order by mail, detach and mail the
completed order form with credit card information,
money order or check in US currency (made payable to
Thomson Consumer Electronics, Inc.) to the following
address:
Video Accessories
PO Box 8419
Ronks, PA 17573
My card expires:
AUTHORIZED SIGNATURE
(Credit card order will not be processed without signature)
Prices are subject to change without notice.
Print or type your name and
address clearly.
Name:
Street:
City:
State:
A complete and correct
order will save you days
of waiting.
Apt:
Zip:
Please make sure that both sides of this form
have been filled out completely.
• Allow 4 weeks for delivery.
• All accessories are subject to availability.
• Prices are subject to change
60
Index
A
Access card 50
number 14
Accessories 59
All button 22
AlphaSort button 23
Alternative data 44
Attractions Guide 20,34
Audio Language 44
B
Batteries
installing in the remote 5
Buttons 52
C
Cancelling purchases 35
Channel banner
anatomy 17
icons 17
Channel Guide 20
Channel lists 37
add channels 38
delete channels 38
Connections 8
audio/video quality
10, 11, 12, 13
jacks and cables 9
D
Data port 17
Default guide 18
Detail Guide 18
DIRECTV programming 14
Dish Pointing 45
azimuth 45
elevation 45
menu 29
E
Exiting
menus 28, 29
program guides 20, 26
F
Front panel controls 51
G
Grid Guide 18
GUIDE button 18
Guides. See Program guides
H
Help 4, 26
Home Control 47
accessories 59
icon 17
menu 29
setup 47
timers 48
I
Icons 17, 36, 40, 48
Interactive setup 14, 42
L
Locking
a profile 40
the system 17, 37, 40
Logo Guide 20
Look and feel 43
back panel 51
connecting 6
front panel 51
system 4
Remote control
batteries 5
buttons 52
programming 5, 53
using the 53
Reviewing purchases 35
S
Scout 24
button 24
results 24
Scrolling 18
Signal meter 46
peak signal 46
Sorting
program guides 21
Sorting by
All button 22
AlphaSort button 23
Movies button 22
Other Guides button 25
Scout button 24
Sports button 22
Topics button 21
Spending limits 36, 39
Sports button 22
SurfGuide 18
System lock 40
System options 43
System unlock 41
T
Timer feature
editing or cancelling 36
Timers
Home Control 48
icons 36, 48
Timers menu 29, 36
Topics button 21
Transponders 46
Troubleshooting 54
Tuning to a program 19
U
Unlocking
a profile 41
the system 17, 41
USSB programming 14
V
Viewing hours limit 39
W
Warranty information 56
61
If your satellite system needs service, please contact your
dealer or the nearest Servicenter from the yellow pages.
Please do not send any products to the Indianapolis address
listed in this manual or on the carton. This will only add
delays in service for your product.
10330 North Meridian Street
Indianapolis, IN 46290