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. ® ® ® If your DVR is not working properly even after restarting it, you are having trouble with the remote control or have another technical question, please contact RCA at 580-634-0151.
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. S ele ct The LEFT arrow button often takes you to a previous screen. Select Two Types of On-Screen Arrows Highlight Bar The arrows that appear beside or near the highlight bar show possible directions.
Hints & Shortcuts 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. INSTANT REPLAY replays the last 8 seconds of a program. 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).
Welcome to DIRECTV
16219730 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 with permission. All rights reserved. DIRECTV, 2230 East Imperial Hwy., El Segundo, CA 90245. TiVo and the TiVo logo are a registered trademarks of TiVo Inc.
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.
Table of Contents Using this Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . vii Chapter 1: Connecting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 Overview . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Channel Banner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51 Play with Live TV . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Status Bar . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Chapter 8: Troubleshooting . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .117 Contacting Customer Care . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 118 Questions About Installation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
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. Throughout this guide, you will see important and helpful notes and tips in this format. Glossary of Icons. The inside front cover of this guide provides an introduction to the remote control.
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™ searches, Season Pass™ recordings, Thumbs Up™ and Thumbs Down™, TiVo Suggestions, and TiVolution Magazine®, all in one seamlessly integrated product that will change the way you watch television.
CHAPTER 1 Connecting Overview 2 Before You Begin 3 Useful Terms 5 Cables and Accessories 9 Setup Examples 10
C h a p t e r 1 C o n n e c t in g Jacks are places where cables can Overview be connected. 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. 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.
B e f o r e Y o u B e g i n 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.
C h a p t e r 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.
U s e f ul T e r m s Useful Terms 1 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.
C h a p t e r 1 C o n n e c t in g 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.
U s e f ul T e r m s Coaxial RF Cable: A coaxial RF cable transfers both audio and video on a single cable. 1 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 Digital audio, and wish to use Dolby Digital audio, then you must use this cable.
C h a p t e r 1 C o n n e c t in g between viewing DIRECTV channels, viewing video from your DVD player, or running your game system by changing the input source. Dolby Digital Audio: Dolby® Digital audio is recorded on six separate channels, each of which can be heard on one of six separate speakers. To use Dolby® Digital audio, you must use an optical audio cable to connect your DIRECTV DVR to an A/V receiver capable of supporting Dolby® Digital audio.
C a b l e s a n d A c ce ss o r ie s Cables and Accessories 1 In addition to your television and the equipment that shipped with this DIRECTV DVR (shown below), you’ll need a satellite dish antenna—which should be properly mounted before you connect the DVR—and a standard, analog phone line (see page 3 for details). 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 DIRECTV Access Card Phone Line Splitter 3.
C h a p t e r 1 C o n n e c t in g Setup Examples Audio and Video Cables 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). 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 Connect to Composite Video and L/R Audio Jacks (red) (white) (yellow) RF Coaxial.
S e t up E x a m p l e s 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.
C h a p t e r 1 C o n n e c t in g Example 1: VCR, DVD and/or Game System, and Switch Box or A/V Receiver Television RF In IN Audio R Audio L Video Switch Box or A/V Receiver VCR Audio R INPUT OUTPUT Audio R L DVD Player or Game System Video Audio R Video L Audio R Video R L Audio R IN L DIRECTV DVR L Video Ch 3/4 RF Out Ch 3/4 RF Out RF In AC~In 12 L Video OUT Video OUT Audio Note: Audio/Video cables shown are examples only.
S e t up E x a m p l e s 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.” Connect the DVR’s output to the switch box or A/V receiver’s input.
C h a p t e r 1 C o n n e c t in g Example 2: DVR with VCR To switch between watching your VCR and watching video from your Television 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 Antenna In INPUT “Menu” button that allows you to change R L VIDEO S-VIDEO the video source using an on-screen menu.
S e t up E x a m p l e s Example 2: DVR with VCR 1 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.” Connect the DVR to your TV. Look at the back of your TV and see what types of jacks are available.
C h a p t e r 1 C o n n e c t in g Example 3: DVR Only Television Antenna In INPUT R L VIDEO S-VIDEO DIRECTV DVR AC~In 16 Note: Audio/Video cables shown are examples only. Use the best connections available on your equipment.
S e t up E x a m p l e s Example 3: DVR Only 1 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.” Connect the DVR to your TV. Look at the back of your TV and see what types of jacks are available.
C h a p t e r 1 C o n n e c t in g To switch between watching DIRECTV channels and antenna/ cable channels, or tapes on your VCR, use Example 4: DVR, VCR, Antenna or Cable, and Multiple Input TV Television the “Input,” “Source,” or “TV/Video” button on your TV’s remote to change the video source. Some TVs have a “Menu” Antenna In INPUT button and an on-screen menu that lets you change the video source.
S e t up E x a m p l e s Example 4: DVR, VCR, Antenna or Cable, and Multiple Input TV “Multiple input” means the TV has 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. multiple input plugs for A/V connectors.
C h a p t e r 1 C o n n e c t in g To switch between watching DIRECTV channels and watching Example 5: DVR with VCR, Antenna or Cable, and Single Input TV antenna/cable channels, or watching Television tapes on your VCR, use the “Input,” “Source,” or “TV/Video” button on your TV’s remote control to change the video RF In source. Some TVs have a “Menu” button that allows you to change the video source with an on-screen menu.
S e t up E x a m p l e s Example 5: DVR with VCR, Antenna or Cable, and Single Input TV If you have a DVD player or game If your TV has composite video inputs, use the example on page 18. You will NOT be able to use DIRECTV Receiver functions while watching antenna or cable channels. system in addition to your TV, VCR 1 and DIRECTV DVR, you may need to use a Connect the coaxial RF cables from your satellite dish antenna to the DVR.
C h a p t e r 22 1 C o n n e c t in g
CHAPTER 2 Guided Setup Overview 24 Satellite Dish Guided Setup 25 Activate 29 Phone Setup 30
C h a p t e r 2 Satellite Dish Guided Setup is used to test signal strength, position the satellite dish antenna and configure the DVR for use with a multiswitch or new multi-satellite dish antenna. If you have connected your G ui d e d S e t u p Overview Now that you have finished connecting your DIRECTV DVR, you are ready to begin Guided Setup. When you first plug in the DVR, screens appear which display its progress as it starts up.
S a t e ll it e D i sh G u id e d Se t u p Satellite Dish Guided Setup Satellite Dish Guided Setup tells the DIRECTV DVR what type of satellite dish antenna you are using, so you must go through it at least once, even if you are only replacing a DVR that was already working. Satellite Dish Guided Setup usually takes about five minutes, plus whatever time you may need to position your dish. Notice the progress bar at the 2 bottom of the screen.
C h a p t e r 2 G ui d e d S e t u p Satellite Connections. If you connected an RF coaxial cable to each of the DIRECTV DVR “Satellite In” jacks, select “Two cables.” If you connected only one RF coaxial cable (to the “Satellite In 1” jack), select “One cable.” To be able to record two programs at the same time, you must connect an RF coaxial cable from the satellite dish antenna (or a multiswitch) to both of the “Satellite In” jacks and then choose “Two cables” on this screen. ZIP Code.
S a t e ll it e D i sh G u id e d Se t u p Note: You can check signal strength while you adjust the position of your satellite dish antenna. The signal strength meter on this screen provides audio feedback—a tone that becomes higher pitched as the signal gets stronger. You may be able to turn the volume on your TV up so you can hear the tone while you adjust your satellite dish antenna.
C h a p t e r 2 G ui d e d S e t u p Program Guide Data. Over the first 1 to 2 days, the DIRECTV DVR will gather and process up to two weeks of program data from the DIRECTV satellites. Program data includes program titles, times, channels, program descriptions, and more. Many of the DVR’s features use program data. Although you may be able to use such features immediately, you may not be able to find all the programs you are looking for right away.
A c t i v a t e Activate Now it’s time to activate services for your DIRECTV DVR. Before you make the phone call: • The DVR should be on, tuned to channel 100, and receiving a signal from the satellite dish antenna. (Channel 100 shows preview programming from DIRECTV.) • You will need: a valid service address, social security number, and a major credit card (deposit or prepayment may be required).
C h a p t e r 2 G ui d e d S e t u p Phone Setup Press the DIRECTV button on your remote control to start Phone Setup. Final Steps. The last step of Guided Setup, Phone Setup, begins automatically the first time you press the DIRECTV button on your remote control. The DIRECTV DVR should be connected to a telephone line. The DVR occasionally makes a brief phone call to get updates to the DVR service and Showcases, and for pay per view functionality.
P h o ne No Local Numbers. If you chose a local dial-in number, you will not see this screen. If you selected “None of the Above” on the Dial-In Numbers screen, select “Request 800 number authorization” here. Selecting this option temporarily selects the toll-free number and submits a request to use the toll-free number. It is the current policy of DIRECTV to allow you to use the toll-free number if there are no local numbers available.
C h a p t e r 2 G ui d e d S e t u p Information,” you can press the DIRECTV button on the remote control to go directly to DIRECTV Central. From DIRECTV Central, programs in your DVR’s Now Playing List are always available. If you start your DVR without properly connecting it to a DIRECTV satellite television signal, the DVR will not show live TV or provide any live TV functions. Your DVR should NOT be used with any digital PBX phone system.
CHAPTER 3 The Basics in 5 Short Tours 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
C h a p t e r 3 Th e B a s i c s i n 5 S h o r t T o u r s Guid e List Tour 1: Play with Live TV In this tour, you’ll take a look at how you can control live TV. So grab your remote! Vol Record Chan Page Play (-) Slo w TV T ow VP e r T SAT V Input First, press the PAUSE button—the program you’re watching pauses. Now you can stand up and stretch, or go to the kitchen and get a snack.
T o u r 1 : P l a y w it h L iv e T V Status Bar Press PAUSE or PLAY to see the status bar. It shows a one-hour period. The green segment is the portion of the current hour that has been saved by your DIRECTV DVR. The right edge of the green part is always the current time. The white line marks the part of the program you are currently watching. If it is anywhere back in the green segment you are “behind” real time. Press CHAN UP.
C h a p t e r 3 Th e B a s i c s i n 5 S h o r t T o u r s Tour 2: DIRECTV Advanced Program Guide™ While you’re watching live TV, the Advanced Program Guide lets you see what’s on, change channels, schedule recordings, and more. To see it, press the GUIDE button on your remote control. Changing Channels If you find that the Program Guide or the CHAN UP/DOWN buttons The guide shows a list of channels on the left and different times across the top.
T o u r 2 : D I R E C T V A d v a n c e d P r o gr a m G u i d e ™ First, create a list of favorite channels. Press the DIRECTV button to see DIRECTV Central. Highlight “Messages & Setup,” then press SELECT. Next, select “My Preferences,” then “Customize Channels,” then “Favorite Channels.” A list of all DIRECTV channels appears. (DIRECTV provides many, many more channels than will fit on one screen!) Press CHAN DOWN a few times. Each time you press it, you see the next screen of channels.
C h a p t e r 3 Th e B a s i c s i n 5 S h o r t T o u r s Tour 3: Find and Record Your Favorite Programs You can always record a program you’re watching by pressing the RECORD button on your remote control. What’s more, if you have not changed the channel for a while, your DIRECTV DVR will add to your recording whatever part of the program it has already saved, up to 30 minutes.
T o u r 3 : F i n d a nd R e c o r d Y o u r F a v o r i t e P r o g r a m s or “The.”) Move the white box to “O” and press SELECT again. The list changes. Your DVR searches through all available programs (usually, data for the next two weeks) to find those that begin with “DO,” then lists those programs. This can be a great way to find a show if you are not sure of its full name. If you make a mistake entering text, select “DEL” on the screen (or press BACK on the remote control).
C h a p t e r 3 Th e B a s i c s i n 5 S h o r t T o u r s Tour 4: Search for New Programs Your DIRECTV DVR helps you find what you want to watch—both exciting new shows and old favorites you might have forgotten. Showcases Showcases list the best programs offered by television’s biggest networks. These Showcases group programs in theme packages, giving you one-stop-shopping convenience when browsing for programs to record.
T o ur 4: S e a r ch fo r N e w P r o g r a m s TiVo Suggestions (Thumbs Up and Thumbs Down) TiVo Suggestions is a personalized list of shows selected to match your preferences. How is this magic possible? Any time you watch programs, live or pre-recorded, or browse programs with the Program Guide, you can rate them. If you like a program, press the green THUMBS UP™ ™ button on your remote control. If you dislike it, press the red THUMBS DOWN™ ™. You can give a program up to three Thumbs, up or down.
C h a p t e r 3 Th e B a s i c s i n 5 S h o r t T o u r s Tour 5: Now Playing List Your DIRECTV DVR can record many hours of programming. (Enough to fill a slew of video tapes!) Fortunately, it also labels and organizes all those saved programs. Unlike a VCR, the Now Playing List on your DVR gives you instant access to all recorded programs—no need to spend time searching for an episode on that tape you thought you used. To go to the Now Playing List, press the LIST button.
C o o l T h in g s Y o u C a n Do Cool Things You Can Do Never be late for your favorite programs: Working late? Stuck in traffic? Don’t worry. If you set up a recording or a Season Pass, the program will be waiting for you in the Now Playing List. You can even start watching from the beginning while it finishes recording.
C h a p t e r 3 Th e B a s i c s i n 5 S h o r t T o u r s Use the Overtime Scheduler™ (and don’t miss overtime!): Programs sometimes start before they’re supposed to and often end later than scheduled. With Recording Options, you can “pad” your recordings to account for variations by using the Overtime Scheduler.™ See page 62. Use the EXIT button: The EXIT button hides the status bar, guide, channel banner, and anything else that is not part of the program.
CHAPTER 4 Watching Live TV 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
C h a p t e r 4 W a t c h in g L i v e T V Let’s Go! Here are two ways to watch live TV: • Press the LIVE TV button on your remote control. • From DIRECTV Central, highlight Watch Live TV and press SELECT. Changing Channels There are a number of ways to change channels—choose what’s easiest for you: • Tired of channel surfing? Press GUIDE to bring up the Advanced Program Guide™. Then highlight a program in progress and press SELECT.
L e t ’ s G o ! Recording a Live Program To start recording a program while you’re watching it, press RECORD. From the options that display, choose “Record this showing.” Or you can choose “Season Pass and other options” to see the Program Information screen and either get a Season Pass (page 59) or change Recording Options (page 60). The recording will stop automatically when the program ends. You can stop it before that by pressing the RECORD button.
C h a p t e r 4 W a t c h in g L i v e T V DIRECTV Advanced Program Guide™ While you are watching live TV, the Advanced Program Guide™ shows you current and upcoming programs. You can use it to see what’s on, change the channel, schedule a recording, purchase and/or record pay per view events when pricing information is available, alter Thumb ratings, or select a channel filter. The guide has program information for up to the next two weeks. To display the guide, press the GUIDE button.
D I R E C T V Title, date, time the program airs, and other applicable information (rating, alternate audio, CC, Dolby Digital) A d v a n c e d P r o gr a m G u i d e ™ The following icons may appear Grid Guide beside programs in the guide: Program description and Thumb rating Time slots This appears beside pay per view events that are All Day Ticket replays.
C h a p t e r 4 W a t c h in g L i v e T V Customizing the Guide Guide Options. By customizing the guide, you can choose to use either the Grid Guide or the List Guide. You can also change the day and time displayed, select a channel list, and set the guide to filter program information by category. To customize the guide, press GUIDE to make it visible, then press INFO to see Guide Options. Highlight an option and then change it with the LEFT and RIGHT arrows.
C h a nn e l Channel Banner The channel banner appears at the top of the screen when you change channels or press INFO, THUMBS UP or THUMBS DOWN, or the RIGHT arrow during a program. It disappears after a few seconds. You can set a preference (see page 96), to decide how long the banner stays on the screen when you change channels. Press EXIT (or INFO) to hide the channel banner.
C h a p t e r 4 W a t c h in g L i v e T V Play with Live TV The INSTANT REPLAY button has many uses but one of the most helpful is to compensate when you fast Part of the fun of watching live TV and recorded programs with your DIRECTV DVR is using the pause, instant replay, and slow motion features. Here’s a list of the things you can do with the special buttons on your remote control: rewind eight seconds. Press it again if you Record: Records a program.
S t a t u s B a r Status Bar When you press PLAY, PAUSE, FORWARD or BACK, a status bar appears on the lower part of your screen. In live TV, the status bar represents one hour (notice the white tick marks every 15 minutes). In recorded programs, the bar shows the program’s length. The green portion of the bar represents the part of the program saved by the DVR. The DVR automatically saves up to 30 minutes of live TV. You can rewind and fast forward through the saved portions of a program.
C h a p t e r 4 W a t c h in g L i v e T V Music Channels Some DIRECTV channels feature continuous music. You can tune to a music channel just as you would any other channel. You cannot record music channels or use special features—such as pause or rewind—on a music channel. Music Channels have a special music banner that displays for five minutes when you first tune to them. You can bring the music banner back to the screen by pressing the RIGHT arrow, or INFO.
S t a n d b y Standby You can put your DIRECTV DVR in standby mode by selecting “Standby” from DIRECTV Central, or by pressing the STANDBY button on the front of your DVR. • If you temporarily turned off Parental Controls, standby mode enables them again. • The lights on the front of the DVR go out and it shows a black screen on your TV. It responds to only a few buttons on the remote control.
C h a p t e r 56 4 W a t c h in g L i v e T V
CHAPTER 5 Finding and Recording Programs 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
C h a p t e r 5 F i n d i n g a n d R e c o r d in g P r o g r a m s Recording Programs: The Basics All programs saved on your DVR are listed in the Now Playing List (no more searching through unlabeled videotapes!). To go to the Now Playing List, press the DIRECTV button on your remote control twice, or press the LIST button. As soon as a recording begins, it appears at the top of the list. You can watch any title in the Now Playing List, even one that is still being recorded.
R e c o r d i ng P r o g r a m s : Getting a Season Pass A Season Pass records every episode of a series that airs on a certain channel—even if the day or time slot changes! It is totally automatic and really easy to set up. Just select a program (from the DIRECTV Advanced Program Guide™, for example) and choose “Get a Season Pass.” Season Pass recordings have the following characteristics: • • • • No duplicates within 28 days.
C h a p t e r 5 F i n d i n g a n d R e c o r d in g P r o g r a m s Managing Your Season Pass recordings. With Dual Tuner, you can record two programs at the same time. Conflicts will occur only if you try to schedule a third recording that overlaps the other two. By default, the oldest Season Pass has the greatest priority. If some Season Pass programs are not recording, you may need to change their priority with the Season Pass Manager.
R e c o r d i ng P r o g r a m s : T h e B a s i c s highlighted, “Options” appears to its right. To see the current Recording Options, use the arrow buttons to highlight “Options,” then press SELECT. To set Recording Options: 1. On the Recording Options screen, use the UP/DOWN arrows to highlight an option. 2. Press the RIGHT and LEFT arrows to change the setting. 3. When you are done, press SELECT or highlight “Record with these options.” 4.
C h a p t e r 5 F i n d i n g • a n d R e c o r d in g P r o g r a m s Keep At Least. (Only available for an individual recording.) This option sets the minimum amount of time for the DVR to keep a recording. The default setting is two days, except for pay per view events, which default to “Save until I delete.” The next two items on the list are collectively known as the Overtime Scheduler™. • Start Recording. Use this setting to start recording a program before its scheduled beginning.
R e c o r d i ng P r o g r a m s : T h e B a s i c s Program Information Screen In the Program Guide, highlighting a program title (that is not currently playing) and pressing SELECT displays some information about the program. You can also choose “Season Pass & other options” to get to the Program Information screen. The Program Information screen includes a brief description of the selected program. It also shows the program’s start time, channel, duration, ratings, advisories, and other attributes.
C h a p t e r 5 F i n d i n g a n d R e c o r d in g P r o g r a m s Actions you can take. The lower part of the Program Information screen shows actions you can take. Available actions vary depending on what kind of program is selected and whether the program is already recorded or is scheduled to record. • For actions you can take on programs that are scheduled to record (programs in the To Do List), see page 65. • For actions you can take on pay per view programs, see page 39.
R e c o r d i ng P r o g r a m s : T h e B a s i c s Reviewing the To Do List The To Do List shows all scheduled recordings. To view it, go to DIRECTV Central, then Pick Programs to Record, then To Do List. After setting up a recording, you can confirm that it is scheduled on the To Do List. Individual recordings have a single checkmark ( ) to the left of the program title. Season Pass and manual repeat recordings have a double checkmark ( ), and WishList searches (see page 73) have a star ( ).
C h a p t e r 5 F i n d i n g a n d R e c o r d in g P r o g r a m s View Recording History This is an advanced feature for those who really want all the details. It is available as a selection in the To Do List, and displays a history of programs that have been deleted or have not recorded. The history also lists recordings that were requested but will not be recorded, as well as the reason for not making the recording.
R e c o r d i ng P r o g r a m s : T h e B a s i c s Using Save to VCR: 1. Go to the Now Playing List, highlight the show you want to save, then press SELECT. 2. Using the arrow buttons, highlight “Save to VCR,” then press SELECT. 3. Select “Start saving from the beginning.” 4. A title screen appears for ten seconds. When you see it, press your VCR’s record button. 5. When the program is over, press stop on your VCR. Stopping Save to VCR: Going to live TV interrupts (or stops) the transfer.
C h a p t e r 5 F i n d i n g a n d R e c o r d in g P r o g r a m s Finding Programs to Record Find shows to record. The DVR service allows you to quickly set up recordings for the shows you already know you love. It also helps you search for fun, exciting new programs that match your interests, hobbies, favorite stars and genres. Which of the following statements fits your mood today? I already know what I want to record (page 69) Describes Search by Title and Record by Time or Channel.
I A l r e a d y K n o w W h a t I W a n t t o R e c o r d I Already Know What I Want to Record The following options are useful if you already know the title of the program you want to record: • Search by Title • Record by Time or Channel • Manually Record by Time or Channel Search by Title Use Search by Title if you are looking for a specific program and you know its name. 5 1.
C h a p t e r 5 F i n d i n g a n d R e c o r d in g P r o g r a m s Record by Time/Channel Record by Time/Channel offers you three choices: Browse by Time, Browse by Channel, and Manually Record Time/Channel. These options are described separately in the next few pages. Browse by Time Browse by Time lets you browse all programs on a particular day and time. For example, you can browse all the movies on Saturday night.
I A l r e a d y K n o w W h a t I W a n t t o R e c o r d Browse by Channel Browse by Channel lets you browse through programs on a particular channel. You can start with all channels or just your favorites. To browse by channel: 1. Highlight and select either “All Channels,” which includes all the channels you receive, or “Favorite Channels,” which includes just the channels you have selected as your favorites. 2. Use the UP and DOWN arrows to select the date you want to browse.
C h a p t e r 5 F i n d i n g a n d R e c o r d in g P r o g r a m s Manually Record by Time or Channel Manually Record Time/Channel lets you schedule a recording on a specific channel at a specific time, just as you would with a VCR. You can also create a manual repeat recording for every week, every day, or every weekday. To create a manual recording: 1. To choose the Recording Type, use the UP and DOWN arrows to select “One Time,” or “Repeating.” Then press the RIGHT arrow.
I K n o w W ha t I L ik e I Know What I Like If you know what you like, WishList searches are great! They allow you to find and automatically record shows that match your interests, tastes, passions, and whims. You can search for future programs with your favorite actor or director by creating an Actor or Director WishList. You can also create a Category Only WishList to find programs tailored to particular categories.
C h a p t e r 5 F i n d i n g a n d R e c o r d in g P r o g r a m s WishList for the movie’s title and year. In that case, the keyword entry might look like this: “THE FRIGHT” 1986.) After you make a WishList, you can periodically view what it finds by selecting “View all upcoming WishList programs,” or selecting an individual WishList, then selecting “View upcoming programs.” Then you can schedule recordings for the programs or episodes you want. (See page 78 for more details.
I K n o w W ha t I L ik e Creating a WishList From Search Using WishLists, select “Create new WishList.” Next, select the type of WishList: Actor, Director, Category Only, Keyword, or Title. For most WishList searches, you use the keypad on the next screen to spell out what you’re looking for. As the last step, you’ll then be able to select a category and subcategory to narrow your search. For example, if you want movies with Elizabeth Myer, but not documentaries or talk shows, select “Movies.
C h a p t e r 5 F i n d i n g a n d R e c o r d in g P r o g r a m s Keyword or Title WishList Searches: You can create a Keyword WishList with one keyword or with several. If you enter more than one keyword, the WishList only finds programs that match all of your keywords. With Keyword WishList searches, the DVR service checks for your keywords in the program or episode title, description, actor, director, year, and category information.
I K n o w W ha t I L ik e Tips for entering keywords Title WishList searches are an • excellent way to search for a • • To specify an exact phrase in a Keyword or Title WishList, surround a set of words with quotation marks (to enter quotation marks, press PAUSE ( ). For example, the keyword BILL SIMON might also turn up a documentary about Simon Branden with a director whose name is Bill. Use “BILL SIMON” to be certain you find programs that only feature Bill Simon.
C h a p t e r 5 F i n d i n g a n d R e c o r d in g P r o g r a m s Browsing, Recording, and Editing WishList Searches To browse all WishList items: Select “View all upcoming WishList programs.” This displays a list of up to 10 programs from each of your WishList searches—and up to 200 programs total. The list is divided to display programs found by each WishList. To record a program, select its title, then choose “Record this episode” on the Program Information screen.
H e l p M e F i n d N e w P r o g r a m s Help Me Find New Programs The DVR service provides special features that help you sift through upcoming programs to find shows you’d like: TiVo Suggestions these show up in the Now Playing List if they’re recorded. Showcases go to DIRECTV Central, then select this option. TiVo Suggestions Your DVR tries to make sure there is always something interesting on for you to watch.
C h a p t e r 5 F i n d i n g a n d R e c o r d in g P r o g r a m s When there is empty space in the Now Playing List, the DVR service may record TiVo Suggestions for you. Suggestions are marked in the Now Playing List with a TiVo icon ( ). The DVR never deletes a program you requested to make room for a suggestion. Instead, suggestions are deleted to make room for recordings you schedule. A preference that prevents TiVo Suggestions from recording automatically is described on page 97.
H e l p M e F i n d N e w P r o g r a m s 4. Use the CHAN DOWN button to see themes that are not visible at first. When you highlight a theme, a short description of it appears at the top of the screen. Select a theme. A list of programs appears. 5. You can use the CHAN DOWN button to see programs that are not visible at first. When you highlight a program, a short description of it appears at the top of the screen. Select a program to see its Program Information screen.
C h a p t e r 82 5 F i n d i n g a n d R e c o r d in g P r o g r a m s
CHAPTER 6 Messages and Setup Messages from DIRECTV 84 Purchases 85 My Preferences 89 Recorder & Phone Setup 99 System Information 106 Troubleshooting 107 Restart or Reset System 108
C h a p t e r 6 M e s sa g e s a n d S e t u p Messages from DIRECTV From time to time DIRECTV may send you messages about updates to your service and other important notices. These messages are important, useful and easy to get to—we made them that way because we really want you to read them. When you receive a new message, a message icon ( ) appears on the channel banner and in DIRECTV Central. To read a message: 1. From DIRECTV Central, select “Messages and Setup.” 2. Select “Messages.” 3.
P ur c ha s e s Purchases To see the Purchases screen, first press the DIRECTV Button, then Messages and Setup, then select “Purchases.” The Purchases screen displays a list of all pay per view programs you have purchased, along with their date and time. Each program in the list is also marked either “Upcoming,” “Purchased,” “Canceled,” or “Unviewed.” • Upcoming. These programs are scheduled to be purchased but have not aired yet. You have not yet been charged for them.
C h a p t e r 6 If a pay per view program exceeds spending or rating limits you have M e s sa g e s • a n d S e t u p Press SELECT. The purchase is canceled. You return to the Purchases screen. If you cancel a purchase that is scheduled to record, the recording is also canceled. set with Parental Controls, a password Pay Per View will be required to purchase it. Your DIRECTV® DVR makes buying and recording pay per view events a snap.
P ur c ha s e s you usually cannot use the DVR to purchase a pay per view event more than 24 hours before the event airs. Recorded pay per view programs are marked “Save Until I Delete” (the green icon) by default. That way your recorded movies are saved until you manually delete them from the Now Playing screen. • Purchase & record info. If the DVR does not have purchase information (such as the price of the pay per view event) immediately available, it can do a short check for it.
C h a p t e r 88 6 M e s sa g e s a n d S e t u p • Buy; don’t record. When you select this option, you purchase the pay per view event. A verification screen appears with a description of any scheduling conflicts. • View upcoming showings. Press SELECT to display a list of upcoming showings for the program. Highlighting one of these showings and pressing SELECT displays the Program Information screen for that showing. LEFT arrow from the list returns to the previous screen. • Watch Now.
M y P r ef ere n ce s My Preferences To see My Preferences, press the DIRECTV button, and then select “Messages & Setup” and then “My Preferences.” My Preferences are your personal preferences—you change them to make the DVR work more to your liking. Customize Channels What are channel lists for? Features such as Search by Title and Search Using WishLists only look at programs available on channels selected in the Channels You Receive list.
C h a p t e r 6 M e s sa g e s a n d S e t u p Your changes are saved automatically. Press the LEFT or the RIGHT arrow to return to the Customize Channels screen. The large version of the channel Parental Controls banner has a shortcut to Parental Parental Controls allow you to set limits on movie and television ratings and to lock specific channels so that a password is required to view them.
M y To turn on Parental Controls and define a password ( P r ef ere n ce s ) 1. Select “Turn on Parental Controls.” 2. Use the number buttons on the remote control to enter a four-digit password. 3. Enter the same password again for confirmation. To temporarily turn off Parental Controls ( ) • Enter the password to watch a program or channel—Parental Controls become temporarily turned off, or • Select “Temporarily turn off Parental Controls” on the Parental Controls screen, then enter your password.
C h a p t e r 6 M e s sa g e s a n d S e t u p To turn off Auto Re-lock: Go to Messages & Setup, then My Preferences, then Parental Controls. Press the DOWN arrow to highlight “Auto Re-lock,” then press SELECT. Enter your password, then highlight and select “Auto Re-lock off.” Rating Settings for TV and Movies ( ) Movies that are originally meant for release to theaters have a different rating system from programs that are made for TV.
M y P r ef ere n ce s To set Rating Limits for Specific TV Content: 1. From Parental Controls, select “Rating Settings,” then enter the password and press SELECT. 2. Select Block by TV Content. 3. A list of categories appears on the next screen. Select a category (for example, V-Violence). 4. A box containing all the possible ratings appears. Ratings in green are not locked; ratings in red are locked. (Ratings in gray do not apply to the category.
C h a p t e r 6 M e s sa g e s a n d S e t u p Motion Picture Association of America ratings for movies G: General Audiences. Most parents would find this material suitable for all ages. R: Restricted. This material is specifically designed to be viewed by adults and therefore may be unsuitable for children under 17. PG: Parental Guidance Suggested. Parents may find portions of this material unsuitable for younger children. NC-17: Adult Content.
M y Channel Lock for Live TV ( P r ef ere n ce s ) You can lock individual channels so that a password is required to view any program on those channels. To lock or unlock channels: 1. From the Parental Controls screen, select “Channel Lock,” and then enter the password. 2. A channel list appears with a padlock icon to the left of any locked channels. Highlight a channel and press SELECT to add or remove a padlock icon. Use CHAN UP/DOWN to move through the list quickly.
C h a p t e r 6 M e s sa g e s To change the Password ( a n d S e t u p ) To change the password for Parental Controls, Parental Controls must be on. 1. Select Change Password on the Parental Controls screen. When you turn Parental Controls 2. Enter a new password. off, you don’t need to know a 3. Re-enter the new password. password to turn them back on.
M y P r ef ere n ce s Sound Effects Volume. Allows you to change the volume or turn off your DVR’s sound effects (the tones played when you press buttons on the remote control). The default setting is Medium. Sounds effects are not currently available from the DVR’s digital audio output. Audio Language. This sets your DVR’s default to automatically play the sound track in the language chosen, if that language is available.
C h a p t e r 6 M e s sa g e s a n d S e t u p TV Aspect Ratio 4:3 Standard Screen 16:9 Wide Screen This screen lets you choose one of two settings, the default Standard Screen–4:3 or Wide Screen–16:9. If you have a normal television, you should leave this setting at the default. If you have a wide screen set, select “Wide Screen–16:9.” Doing this allows programs transmitted in a wide screen format to fill the wider screen.
R e c o r d e r & P h o ne Se t u p Recorder & Phone Setup Options under Recorder & Phone Setup affect the basic functioning of the DVR. Most of these settings were established before or during Guided Setup, and you may not ever need to change them.
C h a p t e r 6 M e s sa g e s a n d S e t u p then reporting through a cell phone or walkie-talkie to the person who is adjusting the satellite dish antenna. When you first come to this screen, it shows signal strength for the transponder that carries the current channel. If you are having trouble with a specific channel, tune to that channel, then come to this screen to check the signal for that transponder. • To change the transponder, use the UP arrow to highlight the transponder number.
R e c o r d e r & P h o ne Se t u p Phone Connection The DVR makes a daily call to communicate with the DIRECTV® DVR with TiVo® service, so a telephone line should be connected to it. The DVR occasionally makes a brief phone call to get updates to the DVR service, Showcases, and pay per view functionality. You can see details of the daily call on the Phone Connection screen, including the time of the last successful call and last call attempt, and the status of the last call.
C h a p t e r 6 M e s sa g e s a n d S e t u p Phone Dialing Options Set Dial-In Number. The number your DVR is currently using to call the DVR service is displayed on the Phone Dialing Options screen. To change it: 1. Select Set Dial-In Number on the Phone Dialing Options screen. 2. Use the number keypad on the remote to set the area code, then press SELECT.
R e c o r d e r & P h o ne Se t u p 5. The Dialing Format screen appears after you have chosen a dial-in number. You should use this screen to tell the DVR which dialing format to use. For example, should the dial-in number be preceded by your area code and should a “1” precede the area code? In some areas, even local numbers must be dialed using the area code. Press SELECT to return to the Phone Dialing Options screen. 6. To test your new dial-in number, select “Test Phone Connection Now.
C h a p t e r 6 M e s sa g e s a n d S e t u p Set ‘Phone Avail.’ Detection. Off by default. When Set ‘Phone Avail.’ Detection is on, the DVR determines whether the phone line is in use by detecting voltage on the line. This allows it to avoid disrupting a call in progress (such as another modem call). However, if you are experiencing “Failed, Line unavailable” errors, or if the DVR is not making daily calls, you may have a low-voltage phone system that the DVR cannot detect.
R e c o r d e r & P h o ne Se t u p Time Zone/Daylight Savings DIRECTV sets the time on your DVR to be accurate at your billing address. If you temporarily move the DVR to a new location, you can change the time zone here. After changing the time zone, you can change the Daylight Savings setting. Replace Access Card If you need to replace your DIRECTV access card, follow the on-screen instructions.
C h a p t e r 6 M e s sa g e s a n d S e t u p System Information This is where you can find the DVR’s serial number, the manufacturer and model number, the software version, information about recent service calls, and the DVR’s storage capacity. You’ll need some of this information if you call Customer Care for support. You can use CHAN UP/DOWN to see all of the screen. Remember, you can use CHAN UP/ DOWN to see text below or above what is displaying on the current screen.
T r o u b l e s ho o t i n g Troubleshooting Parental Controls Troubleshooting This screen provides a brief description of how to use Parental Controls. Use CHAN UP/ DOWN to see all of the text on the screen. Phone Troubleshooting This screen provides tips to help you troubleshoot problems with your phone connection. Use CHAN UP/DOWN to see all of the text on the screen.
C h a p t e r 6 M e s sa g e s a n d S e t u p Restart or Reset System You may need to restart the DVR as a routine troubleshooting step. These options erase information and restore original factory settings. Selecting a reset option brings you to a warning screen. To continue press THUMBS DOWN three times, then press ENTER. Restart the DVR. Shuts down the DVR and starts it up again. It will not affect recorded programs, Season Pass items, WishList searches, or TiVo Suggestions.
CHAPTER 7 Programming the Remote Control Introduction 110 Instructions: TV Power, Volume, and TV Input 111 Resetting the Programmable Buttons 114 Setting a Remote Address 115
C h a p t e r P r o g r a m m i n g 7 t h e R e m o t e C o n tr o l Introduction DIRECTV do Win w Live TV Info Exit Guid e List Select For information about the individual buttons on the remote control, please refer to the inside front cover of this guide. Before programming the remote control, you must first insert the batteries and complete Guided Setup. Mute Vol Using the Remote with a TV and A/V Stereo System Chan Record The DIRECTV remote will already work with your DVR.
I n s t r u c t i o n s : T V P o w e r , V o l um e , a n d T V I n p u t Instructions: TV Power, Volume, and TV Input 1. Go to the Remote Control Setup screen. Press the DIRECTV button; then select “Messages & Setup,” then Recorder & Phone Setup, then Remote Control Setup.
C h a p t e r P r o g r a m m i n g 7 t h e R e m o t e C o n tr o l 4. Enter a code. Use the number buttons on the remote control to enter a four-digit code (starting with the first code in the list on the screen). After you press the fourth digit of the code, the red light on the end of the remote control should flash. If it doesn’t, try the next code. 5. Test the code.
I n s t r u c t i o n s : T V P o w e r , V o l um e , a n d T V I n p u t 2. Enter the search code. Refer to the table below and use the number keys on your remote control to enter the appropriate code. To Test: TV power, volume, TV input and muting Enter: 0999 0999 A/V system power, A/V system volume volume, and mute and mute only 1999 1999 After you press the fourth digit of the code, the red light on the end of the remote control will flash twice, then remain on. 3.
C h a p t e r 7 P r o g r a m m i n g t h e R e m o t e C o n tr o l Resetting the Programmable Buttons If you make a mistake, or are having difficulty, you can reset the programmable buttons. Once you do so, all the buttons on the remote will return to the unprogrammed state of a new remote. 1. Prepare the remote control. Point the remote away from your DVR.
Se t t i ng a Re m o t e A d d r e s s Setting a Remote Address If you have two DVRs in the same house, you may want to assign a remote address to each remote control. This will prevent the crossing of signals between one DVR’s remote and the other’s. 1. If the DVRs are both in the same room, cover the area around the shiny, dark plastic window on the front of one DVR. You can use a dark piece of cloth, a magazine, or anything thick and opaque. This prevents the DVR from receiving signals. 2.
C h a p t e r 116 7 P r o g r a m m i n g t h e R e m o t e C o n tr o l
CHAPTER 8 Troubleshooting 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 DIRECTV® DVR with TiVo® Service 139
C h a p t e r 8 T r o u b l e sh o o t in g Contacting Customer Care For questions about your RCA DVR After checking the Troubleshooting chapter of this guide, you can call RCA Customer Support at 580-634-0151 if you need help: • Connecting your Receiver to your TV and other A/V equipment. • With Guided Setup or daily phone calls that are failing. • With a Receiver that does not function properly even after restarting it. • With other questions regarding the DVR or remote control.
Q u e st io n s A b o ut I ns t a l l a t i o n Questions About Installation I do not see the Welcome screen If you do not see the Welcome screen, you may need to change channels or change the video source your TV uses: • If you used coaxial RF cable to connect your DVR to the TV, make sure you’re viewing the same channel (3 or 4) that you selected using the switch on the back of your DVR.
C h a p t e r 8 T r o u b l e sh o o t in g Questions About Live TV (Including Satellite Signal) During Satellite Guided Setup, the screen got stuck on the Satellite Info screen. • Press the DIRECTV button, then select “Messages and Setup,” then select “Recorder & Phone Setup,” then “Satellite Dish Setup,” then choose “Reset Satellite Information.” The screen will warn you not to proceed unless you have been instructed to do so by a customer care representative.
Q u e s t i o n s A b o u t L i v e T V ( In c l u d in g Sa t e l l it e Si g na l ) Can I watch TV while a program is recording? • Yes, you can watch what is recording as it is being recorded. You can also watch any program stored in the Now Playing List while another program is being recorded. If you have dual tuner, you can record one program while watching another. See page 3 for information about Dual Tuner.
C h a p t e r 8 T r o u b l e sh o o t in g How do I get back to the last channel I was watching? • When watching live TV, typing a channel number jumps the DVR to that channel. Press ENTER/LAST if you want to go back to the prior channel. I can’t tune to one of my channels. • You may be using a channel list that does not include the channel you want. Use the number buttons on the remote control to enter the channel number, then press the ENTER button.
Q u e s t i o n s A b o u t L i v e T V ( In c l u d in g Sa t e l l it e Si g na l ) When I power on my TV, I see the message “Searching for satellite signal....” Your DVR is having trouble tuning to the channel you are on. Follow these steps to restore the video: • Try changing channels. If you see the same message on every channel, your video cable may have come loose. Check to make sure all the cable connections on the back of your DVR are secure.
C h a p t e r 8 T r o u b l e sh o o t in g The audio and video are out of sync. • Try changing channels. • Press the PAUSE button on the remote control, then press BACK to move back a frame or two, then press PAUSE again to resume play. • Press the DIRECTV button; then press the LIVE TV button to return to live television. • Restart your DVR. From Messages & Setup select “Restart or Reset System,” then “Restart the Recorder.
Q ue s t io n s A b o u t P i ck P r o g r a m s t o R e c o r d Questions About Pick Programs to Record There are very few or no shows listed when I press GUIDE or look for programs to record. I can’t find my program in the listings, although I know it's on. • Your DVR may not have all its program guide data yet. When you first begin to use your DVR, it begins to download guide information from the DIRECTV satellites.
C h a p t e r 8 T r o u b l e sh o o t in g Can I recover a recorded program that was deleted? How can I save a program longer? • Unfortunately, there is no way to bring back a program that has been deleted from the Now Playing List. You can, however, choose to save programs longer. From the Now Playing List, highlight the program you wish to save longer and press SELECT to display the Program Information screen. Here you can choose “Save until I delete,” or choose “Save Until...
Q ue s t io n s A b o u t P i ck P r o g r a m s t o R e c o r d What happens if a sports event I have scheduled to record goes into overtime? • The DVR service cannot predict whether a sporting event might go into overtime, but we provide a feature that lets you add from one extra minute to three hours at the end of a recording. The Overtime Scheduler™ has two options: Start Recording and Stop Recording. Both are available on the Recording Options screen.
C h a p t e r 8 T r o u b l e sh o o t in g How do I clear all the letters I’ve entered on the alphanumeric keypad and start over? • Use the CLEAR button on the remote, or select “CLR” in the on-screen keypad. To remove one letter, select “DEL” in the keypad or press the BACK button on the remote. How can I fit more programs on Now Playing List, and why does it tell me I don't have enough space? • Your DVR can save a limited number of programs, and then it runs out of space.
Q ue s t io n s A b o u t P i ck P r o g r a m s t o R e c o r d My program didn’t get recorded. I set the DVR up to record something, and it’s not in Now Playing List. • If this happens, you can check Recording History for an explanation why the program did not record. Recording History is the first selection available in the To Do List. Here are some reasons why a program may not be available in the Now Playing List: • The program may have been canceled by the network.
C h a p t e r 8 T r o u b l e sh o o t in g What does it mean when my DVR says programs will be deleted earlier than planned? • 130 By default, all programs except pay per view events are kept for at least two days. After that, programs may be deleted to make room for other recordings you request. Recordings of pay per view events are kept until you delete them. The DVR service uses this information to figure out not only what space will be available but when it will become available.
Q u e st i o n s A b o u t P a r e n t a l C o n t r o l s Questions About Parental Controls My Parental Controls are not working. • For Parental Controls to work, they must be on (and not temporarily turned off). Whenever you enter a password to bypass Parental Controls, Parental Controls become temporarily turned off. If they are turned off, you can turn them back on at the Parental Controls screen (see page 90), or by putting your DVR in standby mode and then taking it out of standby.
C h a p t e r 8 T r o u b l e sh o o t in g Questions About the DVR’s Phone Calls How long does the daily call to the DVR service take? • It is typically a short call, less than three minutes. When the software is being updated, it may take longer, but this happens rarely (a few times a year). My DVR is not making the daily call to the DVR service. 132 • If you use a wireless phone, retry the call using a phone which is connected to a standard wall jack.
Q ue s t io n s A b o ut t h e • If you have call waiting, go to “Messages & Setup,” then “Recorder & Phone Setup,” then “Phone Connection,” then “Change Dialing Options.” Disable call waiting by entering the correct prefix in Call Waiting Prefix (usually *70,). • If you dial a prefix for outside lines, go to “Messages & Setup,” then “Recorder & Phone Setup,” then “Phone Connection,” then “Change Dialing Options.” Set a Dial Prefix—for example, “9,” (nine, followed by a comma for a pause).
C h a p t e r 8 T r o u b l e sh o o t in g Why does the DVR have to be connected to a phone line? Do I need to keep the phone connected all the time? • The DVR should be plugged in to a land-based phone line at all times to receive the DVR service and DIRECTV® sports packages, and to communicate the purchase of pay per view events. Does the DVR service phone call each day cost me any money? • Calling the DVR service via your local dial-in number is the same as making a local telephone call.
Q u e st i o n s A b o u t A u d io Questions About Audio I can’t select an alternate audio track. • Alternate audio tracks are not available for all programs. If a program has an alternate audio track, you can select it through the channel banner. • Programs are recorded with only one audio track, either the primary or an alternate audio track, so you cannot select an alternate audio track on a recorded program. • If you are watching a live program, but are not caught up to live TV (i.e.
C h a p t e r 8 T r o u b l e sh o o t in g Questions About Pay Per View How do I record a pay per view event? • If it is on now, tune to the channel carrying the program and press RECORD. • If it is on later, go to live TV, press the GUIDE button to see the guide. Highlight the program and press SELECT. How do I cancel a pay per view purchase? • You can cancel pay per view purchases before the program airs on the Purchases screen. For more information, see page 85.
Q u e s t io n s • If the program exceeds a limit set with Parental Controls, and Parental Controls are on, you will need a password to view it. • If you are attempting to order a pay per view selection with your remote control and cannot, call DIRECTV Customer Care at the number provided on the back of this guide. A b o u t P a y P e r V i e w I can’t find the station of a pay per view program I ordered.
C h a p t e r 8 T r o u b l e sh o o t in g Questions About the Remote Control My remote control doesn’t work with my television. • You need to program the DVR’s remote control to control some functions of your television or audio/visual equipment. See page 109. My remote control doesn’t work with my DVR. • 138 Your remote control’s batteries may be weak. If its batteries are weak, the red light on the end of the remote control will not flash when you press buttons.
Q u e s t io ns A b o u t t he D I RE C T V ® DV R w it h TiV o ® S e r v ic e Questions About the DIRECTV® DVR with TiVo® Service How do I prevent TiVo Suggestions from being automatically recorded and listed on Now Playing List? • Press the DIRECTV Button, then select “Messages & Setup,” then “My Preferences,” then “TiVo Suggestions,” then “No.” Will my DVR still work without the DVR service? • Without the DVR service, your DIRECTV® DVR will have no recording functionality.
C h a p t e r 8 T r o u b l e sh o o t in g How does my TiVo Suggestions list get generated? How does it know what I like? • Your personal TV preferences are based on programs you have rated with THUMBS UP and THUMBS DOWN. Also, any program you record that does not already have a Thumb rating is automatically given one THUMB UP. TiVo Suggestions isn’t making accurate suggestions for me. • If you haven’t had your DVR for very long, give it time.
CHAPTER 9 Warranty and Specifications Limited Warranty 142 FCC Information 144 Specifications 146 Safety Instructions 148
C h a p t e r 9 Wa r r a n t y a n d S p e c i fi c a t i o n s Limited Warranty Limited Warranty RCA Manufactured DIRECTV® DVR 90 Days Free Labor/One Year Parts Exchange WHAT YOUR WARRANTY COVERS Any defects 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.
L i m i t e d TO RECEIVE A REPLACEMENT UNIT AFTER WE HAVE RECEIVED YOUR UNIT • • • • • • • • Write the SR 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: Evidence of purchase date such as a bill of sale.
C h a p t e r 9 Wa r r a n t y a n d S p e c i fi c a t i o n s FCC Information Declaration of Conformity—Standards to which Conformity is declared: FCC Part 15 This device complies with Part 15 of the FCC Rules. Operation is subject to the following two conditions: (1) this device may not cause harmful interference, and (2) this device must accept any interference received, including interference that may cause undesired operation.
F C C The REN is used to determine the number of devices that may connect to a telephone line. Excessive RENs on a telephone line may result in the devices not ringing in response to an incoming call. In most but not all areas, the sum of the RENs should not exceed five (5.0). To be certain of the number of devices that may be connected to a line, as determined by the total RENs, contact your local telephone company.
C h a p t e r 9 Wa r r a n t y a n d S p e c i fi c a t i o n s Specifications CAUTION: To prevent electrical shock, match wide blade of plug to Satellite In: F-Type Connector Female (2) Video Out: S-Video 4-Pin Mini DIN Composite Video RCA (2) Audio Out: Stereo L/R RCA (2 pairs) Optical SPDIF Digital RF In: F-Type Connector Female RF Out: F-Type Connector Female Channel 3 or 4 switchable Telephone: RJ-11 Female, 2-Wire Control Out: 3.
S p e c if i ca t i o n s MACROVISION COPYRIGHT PROTECTION The DVR incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by U.S. patents and other intellectual property rights. Use of this copyright protection technology must be authorized by Macrovision, and is intended for home and other limited pay per view uses only unless otherwise authorized by Macrovision. Reverse engineering or disassembly is prohibited. U.S. patent Nos.
C h a p t e r 9 Wa r r a n t y a n d S p e c i fi c a t i o n s Safety Instructions This product was designed and manufactured to meet strict quality and safety standards. There are, however, some installation and operation precautions of which you should be particularly aware. Please read these instructions before operating the equipment and save them for future reference. 1. Read Instructions—All the safety and operating instructions should be read and understood before the appliance is operated. 2.
S a f e t y In st r u ct i o n s 12. Object and Liquid Entry—Never push objects of any kind into this product through cabinet slots, as they may touch dangerous voltage points or short the parts, resulting in the risk of fire or electric shock. Never spill liquid of any kind on this product. 13.
C h a p t e r 9 Wa r r a n t y a n d S p e c i fi c a t i o n s 21. Polarization—The DIRECTV® DVR is equipped with a plug that will fit into the power outlet only one way. Do not modify the plug. If the plug does not fit, contact your electrician to replace your outlet. To prevent electric shock, do not use this plug with an extension cord or outlet unless you can fully insert the blades without blade exposure. 22.
APPENDIX A Back Panel Reference
A p p e n d ix A B a c k P a n e l R e f e r e n c e Back Panel Reference AC~In 1 4 5 2 3 6 7 8 10 9 11 12 13 14 This section describes the use of the connection jacks and switch on the back panel of the DIRECTV® DVR. If your setup doesn’t match any of the examples, you can use this information for general reference as you set up your equipment. 1. AC ~ In: When you’ve finished making all of the other connections, plug the AC power cord (supplied) into this opening to turn on the DVR.
B a c k P a ne l Re fe re nc e functionality. Do not connect the DVR to digital PBX systems. Doing so may permanently damage your DVR’s modem and will void your warranty. 3. Cntrl Out (Serial): For future use. 4. Cntrl Out (IR): For future use. 5. USB (Universal Serial Bus) (2): For future use. 6. Composite Video Outputs (2): If your TV or VCR has a Composite Video jack you can connect the DVR to your TV or VCR’s Video In using the yellow video connector on the Composite Video cable (supplied).
A p p e n d ix A B a c k P a n e l R e f e r e n c e 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. 10. Satellite In 2: If you have a Dual LNB satellite dish, you can connect the second satellite cable from your wall to the Satellite In 2 jack.
APPENDIX B GNU General Public License
A p p e n d ix B G N U G e n e r a l P ub l i c L i c e n s e GNU General Public License Version 2, June 1991 Copyright (C) 1989, 1991 Free Software Foundation, Inc. 59 Temple Place, Suite 330, Boston, MA 02111-1307 USA Everyone is permitted to copy and distribute verbatim copies of this license document, but changing it is not allowed. Preamble The licenses for most software are designed to take away your freedom to share and change it.
G NU either the Program or any derivative work under copyright law: that is to say, a work containing the Program or a portion of it, either verbatim or with modifications and/or translated into another language. (Hereinafter, translation is included without limitation in the term “modification”.) Each licensee is addressed as “you”. Activities other than copying, distribution and modification are not covered by this License; they are outside its scope.
A p p e n d ix B a) Accompany it with the complete corresponding machine-readable source code, which must be distributed under the terms of Sections 1 and 2 above on a medium customarily used for software interchange; or, b) Accompany it with a written offer, valid for at least three years, to give any third party, for a charge no more than your cost of physically performing source distribution, a complete machine-readable copy of the corresponding source code, to be distributed under the terms of Section
G NU copies directly or indirectly through you, then the only way you could satisfy both it and this License would be to refrain entirely from distribution of the Program. If any portion of this section is held invalid or unenforceable under any particular circumstance, the balance of the section is intended to apply and the section as a whole is intended to apply in other circumstances.
A p p e n d ix B but not limited to loss of data or data being rendered inaccurate or losses sustained by you or third parties or a failure of the program to operate with any other programs), even if such holder or other party has been advised of the possibility of such damages. End of terms and conditions.
Index
I n d e x A A/V receiver 7 Programming remote to control 110 Access Card 6 Accessories and cables 9 Activate DIRECTV and DVR Services 29 Actor WishList. See WishList.
Fast Forward 52 Forward button 52 Frame Back 52 Frame Forward 52 G Multiswitch 6 MUTE button, programming 111 My Preferences 89 N Network Showcases 40 Glossary of Icons vii GNU General Public License 156 O I Optical (or digital) audio cable 7 Out jack 2 In jack 2 Instant replay button 52 P J Pan-and-Scan 98 Parental Controls 90–96 Channel Lock 95 Lost password 131 Spending limit 95 Parental Controls Auto Re-lock option 91 Password Lost Parental Controls Password 131 Pause button 52 Pay per view 8
I n d e x Remote control Incompatibility with some makes and models 113 Using 24 Using with both TV and A/V equipment 110 Reset System 108 Restarting the DVR 108 RF coaxial cable 10 S Safety instructions 148 Satellite dish antenna types 5 Satellite Dish Guided Setup 25 Satellite Receiver 5 Satellite Signal Strength 26 Satellite Signal Troubleshooting 28 Save longer, see Save Until... Save Until...
Glossary of Icons TM TM These appear when you press the THUMBS UP or THUMBS DOWN button. You can give a program up to three Thumbs Up™ 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. 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.
