General DoD Discussion

[tonyd79]

I would like to see some sort of grouping for DoD programs, if nothing else, in their own folder in the Playlist, simply named "On Demand".

I downloaded all of the "Weeds GMA" programs ("Good Morning Agrestic!"), and they are littering my Playlist. It would be great if these could be grouped under "Weeds", "Weeds GMA", or simply "On Demand", with any other on-demand programming I downloaded.


Grouping by show would be enough. Why have any grouping other than what you have for regular recordings? Why would the source matter?

[Drew2k]

Grouping by show would be enough. Why have any grouping other than what you have for regular recordings? Why would the source matter?My proposal is based on how programs are currently organized in DoD. There's no "Weeds" On Demand folder from which I can select just the Weeds programs to download - instead they are all listed one after the other:

Weeds GMA 1
Weeds GMA 2
etc.

My guess is the data is not present for the On Demand interface to organize them by program, but if it was, I would have no problem with dedicated groups in the playlist for each program download from DOD.

[TheRatPatrol]

I just wish the regular guide had the same info as some of the DOD stuff, such as episode numbers.

[rydertaylor]

My problem is I'm a Directv fan wondering why DOD content is so limit. My friends that have cable On demand receive my favorite show "The Wire" on HBO a week in advance. I have wait until Sunday.Why didn't DOD get all the premium channels on DOD before releasing the beta. I'm still have fan but still waiting and wondering.IF the premium channels are coming in the near future.

[Azalo]

I can't wait for HBO on Demand. Do we even know if DTV and HBO are negotiating?

[beakor]

My problem is I'm a Directv fan wondering why DOD content is so limit. My friends that have cable On demand receive my favorite show "The Wire" on HBO a week in advance. I have wait until Sunday.Why didn't DOD get all the premium channels on DOD before releasing the beta. I'm still have fan but still waiting and wondering.IF the premium channels are coming in the near future.


Being beta its a "work in progress", I wish they would put some HD content that wasnt pay per view. It will get to where it needs to be. I have some coworkers that have cable on demand and it isnt even worth mentioning.

[cater]

To risk being embarassed, I will ask two questions:
How do I connect to my HR20-700 to get internet. I have high speed access to my computer nad received latest update today.
What does one do to get VOD?
I don't know where to ask a question!!

[Michael D'Angelo]

To risk being embarassed, I will ask two questions:
How do I connect to my HR20-700 to get internet. I have high speed access to my computer nad received latest update today.
What does one do to get VOD?
I don't know where to ask a question!!

First you need a router. If you already have one you can either run a ethernet cable from the router to the HR20 or if you have a wireless router you can use a wireless adapter with a ethernet connection not USB. Once you have connected the HR20 you need to run the network setup in the menu. If it says connected to the internet and network you need to just wait until DirecTV activates you. It should not take long to happen.

[Lord Vader]

Cater, if you'd like to go one better than wireless in terms of speed, try one of the powerline adapters. Netgear makes some excellent ones. I had wireless at one time but its speed wasn't as fast as I would have liked; therefore, I switched to using the Netgear XE series powerline adapters. They've been extremely reliable and fast, and very easy to use. They're literally plug and play.

[cater]

Lord Vador,
I am technology illiterate. If I buy a powerline adapter, how does it work (through my pc?)? Is their best unit (Netgear) the one for me?
Thanks for your help - sorry i'm a pest.
Cater

[Lord Vader]

You'd connect one to your router and plug it into your wall outlet near your router. Then you'd plug a second one into an outlet near your DirecTV receiver. From there you'd connect an ethernet cable to your receiver. Your Internet runs through your powerline, effectively at wired speeds.

The only caveat is that you cannot connect it to surge protectors or via extension cords, and they have to be on the same circuit.

[csf97]

Once DoD has been activated and all the initial stuff has been downloaded, does the receiver have to be connected to the Internet in order for the DoD Guide to be updated, or is the DoD Guide updated via satellite?

I'm hoping that the DoD Guide updates like the regular guide, and that I only have to connect to the internet when I actually want to download something.

[RAD]

Once DoD has been activated and all the initial stuff has been downloaded, does the receiver have to be connected to the Internet in order for the DoD Guide to be updated, or is the DoD Guide updated via satellite?

I'm hoping that the DoD Guide updates like the regular guide, and that I only have to connect to the internet when I actually want to download something.

Why not leave it connected all the time?

[csf97]

Why not leave it connected all the time?

Right now I'm using my laptop computer as a bridged connection to hook the DVR up to our network.

If the DoD guide updates via satellite, we can just leave the ethernet cable in the DVR and hookup the laptop whenever we want to download something.

I want to make sure that we will really use the service before I invest in the hardware necessary to make the connection permanent.

[4yanx]

You'd connect one to your router and plug it into your wall outlet near your router. Then you'd plug a second one into an outlet near your DirecTV receiver. From there you'd connect an ethernet cable to your receiver. Your Internet runs through your powerline, effectively at wired speeds.

The only caveat is that you cannot connect it to surge protectors or via extension cords, and they have to be on the same circuit.


I think this might be the most limiting factor for some folks. Some of the phone jacks in the past worked on the same principle but the MFG usually filed to specify the same circuit part and people were left wondering why they couldn't make them work and returned them.

[Lord Vader]

Well, I'm in an apartment, and for me, they work great.

[exchguy]

Being beta its a "work in progress", I wish they would put some HD content that wasnt pay per view. It will get to where it needs to be. I have some coworkers that have cable on demand and it isnt even worth mentioning.

Same here. Its nice that DirecTV has included this feature but they really need to step it up in terms of the content with this beta service. I realize its beta, but its been in that state for several months now with the same types of content and still limited to the 3 PPV HD movies for the HD content. At least for me, the DoD was a nice thing at first and I've enjoyed some of the content, but would be nice to see them coming to the table with at least some of what cable is doing.

I realize that cables on demand is a different type of service and much further ahead with content, but would definately be nice to see DirecTV start pushing up some better content in terms of things like HD movies. Just today was reading that Comcast was throwing up the Bourne Trilogy in HD ondemand.

[Richierich]

I just talked to Directv's "Directv On Demand" Department and they said that the 0X193 software is the latest & greatest software for the HR21s. I told them about my problem with using DVR SCHEDULING and that I got an EMAIL REPLY but no recordings. He escalated the problem.

Also, I told them that my "Directv On Demand" didn't work and he checked some things and said I was connected okay so he would ESCALATE that problem as well.

[buckeye1010]

Sorry if this is smeeking - I searched for this and couldn't find it.

Will the Blue "Keep" button keep a VOD download from being automatically deleted?

[Richierich]

Well, the 0X1FE software that I just got 2 nights ago fixed my DOD problem. I can now enjoy the limited DOD.

Also, my DVR SCHEDULING was ENABLED by that software download.

[xcessiv]

10-4...Thanks Earl

The reliance on the phone line is just about the stupidest thing I have ever seen.

[cody21]

I have a laptop computer that 'talks" to my wireless Linksys Router. Is there a SIMPLE way to juet connect my Laptop to the DVR? the USB connection would be ideal, but I've read here that it is not yet enabled....

[Richierich]

Yes, you can connect via an Ethernet cable from your router/modem.

[Mac user]

My HR20-700 is networked with my Mac Pro via Linksys gaming adapter(11N) and 2wire router/modem(11g). The gaming adapter is set to 2.4Ghz, but has option for 5 Ghz.

I'm able to download SD content using D's VOD, 2 hour movie takes approx. 2 to 3 hours. My internet download speed is approx. 2.47 mbs. The time it takes to download an SD movie varies, but it's pretty consistent(I've tried downloading the same movie a couple times, get similar results).

My problem is that when I attempt to download a HD movie, it stops before the whole movie is downloaded to the DVR. I've been 60-70% thru a download and it just stops. After a few minutes it'll start the download from the beginning of the movie. Other times it won't restart and there is no sign of the movie in the que.

I figure it's a break in the wireless connection with my gaming adapter, but wondered why? My internet speed seems sufficient. Maybe there's too much HD data breaking the connection with the gaming adapter? Maybe a weak signal between the router and gaming adapter?

Anyone else experiencing similar problem? Thanks

[myprosatellite]

Is DoD still in beta? Any idea when it will go nationwide? It seems the only way to get it now is to be a part of a special CE.

I have friends and associates that are waiting for it. However, I don't want to mention it to them if the bugs aren't worked out.

thx.:confused:

[Lord Vader]

Reports say that DirecTV will officially roll it out nationwide sometime in the 2nd quarter.

[t_h]

Fired it up last night after it had some time to pick up some content. One of my HR20's is hooked directly to my router on our 2M/8M cable service. The other I hooked up with some old fashioned homepna version 1 adapters I had lying around. One is hung off a 6' extension cord because whenever I plug anything boxy into an outlet my 3 year old pulls it out and brings it to me.

The management s/w for the old homeplug adapters says all three of the ones in use (an old series 1 tivo on the third) are all running at about 12.8Mb/s in my 20 year old 3 story house. One homeplug on each floor, none on the same breaker.

Directly connected to the router, I'm seeing about 7.5Mb/s throughput. With the old homepluggers I'm getting 3.5.

Downloading a bunch of SD content, mostly kids animation, I couldnt see any major difference in download time for the direct connect vs the old powerline connection. So it seems the throughput is limited to directvs side.

What's good about this for me so far is A) getting some content on the new box immediately and B) occasional stuff like the daily show and random on demand educational tv bits for my son so I dont have to line up 75-100 hours of this and that so he has something to choose from. Directv is my 200TB storage volume...

Other thing I noticed is that with two HD programs recording, 30 things in the download queue, and watching a 3rd HD show...the remote response seems spotty. About a third of the times I hit a key the receiver blinks but nothing happens.

[samberger]

When I'm downloading I will occasionally get a message that there was trouble getting an internet connection and I should do a test. But when I do I'm told my internet connection is good. I have an HR21-700 and I'm using DTV powerline adaptors.

Anybody else experience this?

[Steve615]

Any word on when NFL Network will be available on DoD?

[mwhip]

Where can we request shows to be available on demand? AMC is not in HD however Mad Men is produced that way and Comcast people can get it on demand in HD. Where can I request that of DirecTV?

[Taxi77]

I am getting the error now on both my HR20 and HR21 when trying to download. It asks me to fix now or later, but always shows as working properly. This just started last week. I have Comcast internet and am wondering if they are interfering with downloads from that sight. Internet is fine on the computer, and I can use my Slingbox without interruption. Using DoD, every 2 minutes or so it just stops.

[longhairbilly]

Having trouble with my HR-21 as well. Been downloading stuff the past two months fine. Today I tried to get a few things and it says I am not connected to the internet. My PC and Xbox 360 are running fine.

I rebooted the router and modem as well as the HR-21 itself.

[Taxi77]

Maybe we should start a new post about this, do you have comcrap?

[Carrick]

Just hooked up my DoD via powerline adpaters purchased from Directv. Selected a half hour cartoon for my kids to watch and had to wait over an hour for it to fully download. Haven't even tried a HD show. How can this be called On Demand if you have to wait for your show to load? I have Comcast for my ISP. Any suggestions an what might be my issue?

[Taxi77]

Check to see if your internet connection keeps stopping. Originally it was very quick, now it hangs up. I think Comcast is doing something to cause this, but I have no proof.

[Billzebub]

I am getting the error now on both my HR20 and HR21 when trying to download. It asks me to fix now or later, but always shows as working properly. This just started last week. I have Comcast internet and am wondering if they are interfering with downloads from that sight. Internet is fine on the computer, and I can use my Slingbox without interruption. Using DoD, every 2 minutes or so it just stops.

About a week ago i started having the same problem with my HR20-100. It can't be comcast since I have FIOS. I'm hooked up with a Buffalo wireless adapter and it was working fine. i wonder if this has anything to do with the recent software release. I'm running last weekends CE but this started before that.

[Taxi77]

Mine started last week prior to the last update. Having to continually select continue is a pain. It was working so well before....I guess I'm happy it's not Comcast, but wonder what it is.

[Thrill]

Just hooked up my DoD via powerline adpaters purchased from Directv. Selected a half hour cartoon for my kids to watch and had to wait over an hour for it to fully download. Haven't even tried a HD show. How can this be called On Demand if you have to wait for your show to load? I have Comcast for my ISP. Any suggestions an what might be my issue?

I think the issue lies with the DOD service, not your cable provider. I have DSL, which understandably isn't the fastest broadband connection around, but have consistently had similar download wait times. I have tried one HD movie and it took 6+ hours to download. I tried to start watching it about 5 hours into the download and couldn't make it all the way through the movie without waiting for the rest of the movie to download. I would think though that your Comcast service would be a little faster, but sounds like it isn't. I'm also using Powerline adapters.

[Adam]

I've had DoD on my HR20-700 with no issues. Tonight I activated DoD on my HR21, and I've noticed that I don't have the option to browse by channel (I can only start from channel 1000.) While I can add the remaining channels to my guide, I can't get to them via the on-demand menu (the "browse by channel" option is missing, as is the green button indicator to change the channel.) When I try to manually change the channel to one of the other DoD channels (like 1245 TNT), I get a "channel not available" message. The good news is that I can select and download content from any of the channels from the DoD menu located at channel 1000. Any reason I can't browse by channel on my HR21?

[Michael D'Angelo]

I've had DoD on my HR20-700 with no issues. Tonight I activated DoD on my HR21, and I've noticed that I don't have the option to browse by channel (I can only start from channel 1000.) While I can add the remaining channels to my guide, I can't get to them via the on-demand menu (the "browse by channel" option is missing, as is the green button indicator to change the channel.) When I try to manually change the channel to one of the other DoD channels (like 1245 TNT), I get a "channel not available" message. The good news is that I can select and download content from any of the channels from the DoD menu located at channel 1000. Any reason I can't browse by channel on my HR21?

As for the channels it takes 24 hours to completely load.

As for the option not being in the menu did your receiver update it's software after running for a little while? I don't know how old the software is on that unit out of the box and I am wondering if it was before the option was added to the menu.

[Adam]

As for the channels it takes 24 hours to completely load.

As for the option not being in the menu did your receiver update it's software after running for a little while? I don't know how old the software is on that unit out of the box and I am wondering if it was before the option was added to the menu.

After another 12 hours or so, the "browse by channel" option appeared and I'm able to get to all of the channels. Interesting that I didn't have this issue with my HR20-700, but all is well now.

I do seem to be having the same issue that some others are describing re: the internet connection. I get messages when I download that the internet is not working, but when I press "continue and fix later" it seems to download anyway. Again, I'm not having this issue with my HR20-700, only with my HR21.
Either way, it eventually works, so I'm happy.

[Carrick]

I think the issue lies with the DOD service, not your cable provider. I have DSL, which understandably isn't the fastest broadband connection around, but have consistently had similar download wait times. I have tried one HD movie and it took 6+ hours to download. I tried to start watching it about 5 hours into the download and couldn't make it all the way through the movie without waiting for the rest of the movie to download. I would think though that your Comcast service would be a little faster, but sounds like it isn't. I'm also using Powerline adapters.

Thanks Thrill. I'd call DTV if i thought it would get me anywhere. I wonder if the powerline adaptors are the source of the slowness? Anyway, hopefully over time it will improve.

[Trurida18]

Thanks Thrill. I'd call DTV if i thought it would get me anywhere. I wonder if the powerline adaptors are the source of the slowness? Anyway, hopefully over time it will improve.

nope its not the powerline adapters....Im running thru comcast, and my router is a Cisco Router, ive got a custom linux firewall.... and i KNOW there is nothing wrong with my network.

I monitor bandwidth on a movie that i will download....and the connection will SLOW to a point where it JUST SIMPLY times out, I ran packet sniffers and there is nothing wrong with the sequencing, as far as how incoming packets are coming, but the connection slowly drops from my full blown 8Mbps connection...It will drop from 8 to 6, to 5, to 3, to soon its at 1Mbit, and then before you know it im at dial up speeds............

and then I GET THAT DAMNED error message.....Ive swapped my cables, ive swapped my modem for one i had laying around the house, i even had comCRAP come out and diagnose my line....WHICH I KNEW NOTHING WAS WRONG WITH because i can run my own DOCSIS tests.....the only thing the comcast guy was able to tell me was my lines from the pole to my home were in good condition, and he even showed me the signaling info from his test. Ive been running continous bandwidth tests on the connection, and i could be downloading a full blown 3 GB file and THE CONNECTION WILL NOT TIME OUT....my router will load balance as IT SHOULD, and allow my DVR to get more headroom on the router, and then before you know it.........ERROR...i can run the "TEST MY CONNECTION" diag AND IT PASSES WITH NOOOOOOO problems. Ive been using DoD since January and NEVER HAD A PROBLEM WITH IT until last week


So at this point im blaming DIRECTV..especially seeing as how LOTS OF PEOPLE ARE HAVING THIS PROBLEM, "WITH" different ISP's

[Trurida18]

After another 12 hours or so, the "browse by channel" option appeared and I'm able to get to all of the channels. Interesting that I didn't have this issue with my HR20-700, but all is well now.

I do seem to be having the same issue that some others are describing re: the internet connection. I get messages when I download that the internet is not working, but when I press "continue and fix later" it seems to download anyway. Again, I'm not having this issue with my HR20-700, only with my HR21.
Either way, it eventually works, so I'm happy.

at this point i THINK its that new firmware update for the HR21-700.......which is the 0x16c, I didnt have this issue with the 0x22d

IT WAS SOON after i got the new FW, it started the connection times outs

[rustynails]

Im not sure if this is the right forum but here goes. I want to hook up my pc to the HR21 but my Dsl Modem only has one ethernet port. Do I need a router or just what exactly do I need to get DOD? I know that I will probably need the Ethernet wireless adapters but I need a common connection for the modem.

[Lord Vader]

Yes, you'd connect a router to your modem's Internet input ethernet jack. From the router you'd then connect other devices, such as your DVR or other things. These get connected to the individual ethernet ports. On my router, I've got 4 devices connected via my Linsys's 4 ethernet ports: my Vonage phone adapter, a Netgear powerline adapter, and a couple other things.

[rustynails]

Yes, you'd connect a router to your modem's Internet input ethernet jack. From the router you'd then connect other devices, such as your DVR or other things. These get connected to the individual ethernet ports. On my router, I've got 4 devices connected via my Linsys's 4 ethernet ports: my Vonage phone adapter, a Netgear powerline adapter, and a couple other things.

If I connect the router to my only ethernet jack on the modem, then do I connect my nic to the router?

[dettxw]

If I connect the router to my only ethernet jack on the modem, then do I connect my nic to the router?We also need to know if you want to connect your DVR as a wired device or to use a wireless connection, which depends on the proximity of your devices and/or how much money you want to spend.

If wireless, do you want minimum capability (wireless g) or ready to stream HD (wireless n, preferably dual-band 2,4 & 5GHz)?

[Lord Vader]

If I connect the router to my only ethernet jack on the modem, then do I connect my nic to the router?

Yes. Consider your router like a multi-tap outlet. Your router gets connected to your modem's Internet jack. Then everything that needs an Internet connection gets connected to your router's Internet jacks. My setup is a bit more advanced because my three DirecTV/TIVOs and my three HR20-700s HD DVRs (in different rooms) are connected to Netgear powerline adapters, with the main such adapter connected to my router. FYI, powerline adapters make your DVR Internet connections wired ones rather than wireless, which is a big difference. The former is much faster and more reliable than the latter.

[rustynails]

We also need to know if you want to connect your DVR as a wired device or to use a wireless connection, which depends on the proximity of your devices and/or how much money you want to spend.

If wireless, do you want minimum capability (wireless g) or ready to stream HD (wireless n, preferably dual-band 2,4 & 5GHz)?

I don't really want wireless but I am too far away from my HDDVR that I willl have to use wireless or the network installation kit using the existing wiring in the house, kind of like what I have for my phone connection since its in my computer room. My DSL provider, Windstream offers a Wireless G gateway with router capacity for $100 with a $50 dollar rebate for home networking. Your talking about some money here. $35 each for the powerline adapters and the $50 router. Im not sure that its worth the money.

[Lord Vader]

Forget the wireless gateway and get a Linksys router and a few powerline adapters. They're worth the expense, but don't get the slower ones. I've got the XE103/104s, and they're as fast as a direct connection. Except for the one that connects to my router, each of the other ones is a 104, which has multiple inputs into which I connect my many TIVOs/DVRs.

[rustynails]

I ordered the Linksys router from Amazon but I'm still hesitating about the powerline adapters. How long can the ethernet cables be and still work correctly? I could run one long cable in my basement from the bedroom to the den of about 50 feet.

[Lord Vader]

That will be fine. Ethernet cables aren't like HDMI cables in that they lose strength or operability with length. My old man runs a 50' from one of his HR20-700s to his router and has no problems.

[farleyruskz]

Ethernet cables aren't like HDMI cables in that they lose strength or operability with length.

Not quite true, Ethernet is limited to a length of 100 meters before signal degradation becomes an issue.

[rustynails]

That will be fine. Ethernet cables aren't like HDMI cables in that they lose strength or operability with length. My old man runs a 50' from one of his HR20-700s to his router and has no problems.

I think that is what I will do. 50 feet of cable is a lot cheaper than two powerline adapters. I was looking for the cable without connectors so I could fit them through a hole and then attach a connector but most come with the connectors. I wanted connectors that don't require a cripping tool. I see some keystone connectors but with them you would still need a male to male connector at the tv end.

[Lord Vader]

Just see if you can make the hole a tad bigger to fit the jack end. Much more reliable than having to crimp and add a connector manually.

[rustynails]

Just see if you can make the hole a tad bigger to fit the jack end. Much more reliable than having to crimp and add a connector manually.

I just ordered the cat5 cable with the rj45 connectors so I'm in business. Total cost with the router is about $30. Now if I can just get my Speedstream modem to work with the router I will be alright. I have tried a Zoom modem with Windstream DSL provider and couldn't get it to work but I will wait and see what happens with this set up when it gets here. Thanks for your help!

[Michael D'Angelo]

I just ordered the cat5 cable with the rj45 connectors so I'm in business. Total cost with the router is about $30. Now if I can just get my Speedstream modem to work with the router I will be alright. I have tried a Zoom modem with Windstream DSL provider and couldn't get it to work but I will wait and see what happens with this set up when it gets here. Thanks for your help!

Unplug the power to the modem and router. Connect the ethernet cable from the modem to the router then plug the power to the modem in. Let it start up all the way and then plug the router power in. That should get you working.

[KenW]

Is there some way to search for DOD titles other than the search on the receiver? I tried the web site, but it didn't seem to work.

I prefer to search for shows while I'm watching something else.

[Michael D'Angelo]

Is there some way to search for DOD titles other than the search on the receiver? I tried the web site, but it didn't seem to work.

I prefer to search for shows while I'm watching something else.

DoD was on DIRECTV for a short period of time and it was removed. It will be there again but don't know when it will be added again.

[Trurida18]

I ordered the Linksys router from Amazon but I'm still hesitating about the powerline adapters. How long can the ethernet cables be and still work correctly? I could run one long cable in my basement from the bedroom to the den of about 50 feet.

all CAT 5, 5e, and 6 cabling can be run up to 100 meters or like 325 feet.......anything longer you run the risk of signal loss

[rustynails]

Unplug the power to the modem and router. Connect the ethernet cable from the modem to the router then plug the power to the modem in. Let it start up all the way and then plug the router power in. That should get you working.

I got my router today and it was a piece of cake to set up. My ethernet cable will be in tomorrow so we shall see what happens when I hook it up to the HR21. Do I have to have it activated and does it take awhile before I can put it to use and download a movie?

[Michael D'Angelo]

I got my router today and it was a piece of cake to set up. My ethernet cable will be in tomorrow so we shall see what happens when I hook it up to the HR21. Do I have to have it activated and does it take awhile before I can put it to use and download a movie?

Once you connect the HR21 to the router you need to run the network test. Once it says connected to the internet as long as DoD is active on your account already it will start downloading the guide info. It will take about 24 hours to be fully loaded. But whatever is available once set up you will be able to start downloading and watching.

[rustynails]

Once you connect the HR21 to the router you need to run the network test. Once it says connected to the internet as long as DoD is active on your account already it will start downloading the guide info. It will take about 24 hours to be fully loaded. But whatever is available once set up you will be able to start downloading and watching.

Well I got the cable run and hooked up to the Dvr and everything seems ok. The hardest part was getting the holes big enough for the RJ 45 connectors. I couldn't find a bit larger than about a quarter inch. That was hard work for this old fat man. Thanks again for your help!

[Michael D'Angelo]

Well I got the cable run and hooked up to the Dvr and everything seems ok. The hardest part was getting the holes big enough for the RJ 45 connectors. I couldn't find a bit larger than about a quarter inch. That was hard work for this old fat man. Thanks again for your help!

No problem. Glad I could help.

[Tike1994]

I downloaded the first two episodes of season 2 of Heroes in HD and it took 13 hours to download both episodes. I have a slower speed DSL package (1.5 mps download), and I know that HD shows contain a lot of data, but is this a typical download time? If this is the case, they really shouldn't call it "on demand":lol:

[Michael D'Angelo]

I downloaded the first two episodes of season 2 of Heroes in HD and it took 13 hours to download both episodes. I have a slower speed DSL package (1.5 mps download), and I know that HD shows contain a lot of data, but is this a typical download time? If this is the case, they really shouldn't call it "on demand":lol:

With 1.5MB download speed that is probably about right. You need to have about 3MB down just to watch SD live.

My internet is about 9MB down and to watch HD live I have to let it download some before watching it.

[philherz]

I hooked up my HR21-100 to my router via an ethernet cable about 1/2 hour ago.

Did I read correctly that it could take 24 hours on my DSL connection to show another DoD channel listed in the guide besides 1000?

(Is it my imagination or is the website pretty useless once you're connected????)

[RAD]

I hooked up my HR21-100 to my router via an ethernet cable about 1/2 hour ago.

Did I read correctly that it could take 24 hours on my DSL connection to show another DoD channel listed in the guide besides 1000?

(Is it my imagination or is the website pretty useless once you're connected????)
Yes, it can take a while for the channels to show up in the guide.

What do you mean with your comment about the website, what website and what changes once you're connected?

[Michael D'Angelo]

I hooked up my HR21-100 to my router via an ethernet cable about 1/2 hour ago.

Did I read correctly that it could take 24 hours on my DSL connection to show another DoD channel listed in the guide besides 1000?

(Is it my imagination or is the website pretty useless once you're connected????)

Yes it will take up to 24 hours for the guide to completely load.

[VegasDen]

I connected today with powerlines (one turbo - one wall unit) via a Linksys BEFSR41 and have a great connection.

A tip for folks that might have a Cox (or other ISP) Arris cable modem (one that does VOIP and Internet):

When connecting your router to the Modem the instructions tell you to power down the modem. In doing so also remove the backup battery (located on the left side). If not, the battery backup will retain the "memory" and not allow the modem & router to communicate.

[philherz]

Yes, it can take a while for the channels to show up in the guide.

What do you mean with your comment about the website, what website and what changes once you're connected?

I should've been a little clearer....I was referring to the DirecTV website that tells you how to set up the network and then says how you just add a "1" in front of you favorite station (IE: Showtime) to see what they offer on demand!!!!!

They really should warn everyone that they may have to wait 24 hours....I was wondering if I had to sign up for something and their FAQ section is pretty useless.

At least I knew to come to this site to actually figure out what was going on!!!

[turbobuick86]

Glad to hear more programming will show up. I just hooked up to DoD and was disappointed at seeing basically only kids and gamers programming. :rolleyes:

[lwilli201]

Channel 1701, NFL Superfan On Demand. 14 Shortcuts and you can not tell what game they are unless you down load them. :confused:

[RAD]

Channel 1701, NFL Superfan On Demand. 14 Shortcuts and you can not tell what game they are unless you down load them. :confused:

And each and every game is the same, Bengals and Giants, the title card lies.

[izzymac83]

Will D* ever release DoD on regular DVR receiver without broadband connection?

[Lord Vader]

How could it? I would think it would be difficult to download a DoD movie/show without an Internet connection.

[izzymac83]

They had a trail version of Starz on Demand on D* like 2 years ago that didn't require broadband connection, it would show whats on demand and pick which one you wanted to be downloaded

[rahlquist]

They had a trail version of Starz on Demand on D* like 2 years ago that didn't require broadband connection, it would show whats on demand and pick which one you wanted to be downloaded

Likely the closest you will see to this is Movies Now.

[RAD]

They had a trail version of Starz on Demand on D* like 2 years ago that didn't require broadband connection, it would show whats on demand and pick which one you wanted to be downloaded

IIRC, it was on the D* Tivo units, you could say to activate the feature and it would download a few movies to the harddrive and you could watch them when you wanted to. It wasn't a system where you had a bunch of movies listed, selected the one you wanted and it was sent to you.

[syphix]

They had a trail version of Starz on Demand on D* like 2 years ago that didn't require broadband connection, it would show whats on demand and pick which one you wanted to be downloadedThey weren't "downloaded". They were recorded at off/odd hours (overnights, when the TiVo wasn't busy).

[dreadlk]

I hooked up my DOD and I am not very impressed! Picture quality does not seem to be on Par with regular SD channels and the offerings are so small and of such low value that it's hardly worth it.

It's a good feature for the future but until they get programming that makes it compelling what use is it?

BTW my suggestion to Directv in regards to HD is that they use it for primetime network stuff that people might have missed, for any other application it's just is to slow for casual downloads.


UPDATE:

Open Mouth Insert Foot :)

OK so I should have never posted negatively without waiting the full 24 hours for the DOD to fully load.
After it has fully loaded and I played with it and downloaded stuff from a variety of sources I have reached a different conclusion!

I REALLY LOVE IT, the picture is just as good on most of the Vod recordings as good as regular SD material.
The content is cool in that I can Download many kids shows that my Son would like and cooking shows that the wife wants.
I love the Sci channel and CNN content, and the PPV list is enormous.

Overall a nice addition to the HR2x features.

Thanks Directv..

[Golfman]

When are D* subs going to get HBO ON DEMAND? This is an offering on the cable networks and D* provides ON DEMAND for other premium services. Why not for HBO?

[DanPainter]

I just got On Demand setup works fine but my question is do shows on the major networks show up to download if I happen to miss one like Chuck or CSI for instance?

[Michael D'Angelo]

I just got On Demand setup works fine but my question is do shows on the major networks show up to download if I happen to miss one like Chuck or CSI for instance?

NBC was available for a little while but it was removed a couple of months ago (not sure why). Everything on there was PPV though.

I am not sure when or if they will be added. It is all about contracts.

[doo4usc]

I'm was looking at the DOD guide and didn't see any Networks, ABC etc..Why not?

[Richierich]

They are further down in the Guide. If you want the Weather Channel it will be located at Channel 1362. You put a 1 in front of the Channel Number which for the Weather Channel is 362 so you have 1362.

[doo4usc]

What about the networks..ABC,NBC,CBS and FOX?

[drf23]

What about the networks..ABC,NBC,CBS and FOX?

That along with HBO is whats missing now.

[Golfman]

If we want to get HBO we need to flood D* with emails requesting it. I pop one out about once a week. I don't understand why the delay in providing HBO DoD.

[Golfman]

NBC was available for a little while but it was removed a couple of months ago (not sure why). Everything on there was PPV though.

I am not sure when or if they will be added. It is all about contracts.

Why would anyone pay for network DoD when you can just stream the shows directly from the network web site?

[tjk]

With 1.5MB download speed that is probably about right. You need to have about 3MB down just to watch SD live.

My internet is about 9MB down and to watch HD live I have to let it download some before watching it.

Are these still accurate estimates? I also have a 1.5 package, but I'm upgrading to 3.0. My real speed will probably be between 2.5 and 3.0. (actual speed right now is about 1.35, and it's taking about an hour and a half to download a 1/2 hour childrens' show). Basically looks like you need to know what you want to watch the day before you actually watch it?

I wish 9.0 MB was offered in my area.

[Michael D'Angelo]

Are these still accurate estimates? I also have a 1.5 package, but I'm upgrading to 3.0. My real speed will probably be between 2.5 and 3.0. (actual speed right now is about 1.35, and it's taking about an hour and a half to download a 1/2 hour childrens' show). Basically looks like you need to know what you want to watch the day before you actually watch it?

I wish 9.0 MB was offered in my area.

Yes you need about 3MB to watch SD live.

[Richierich]

I have 8 Mbps with BellSouth/ATT but wish I could get more speed particularly Upload Speed which is only 512 kbps with BellSouth.

I need at least 1.5 Mbps for my SlingBox PRO HD!

[Dolly]

This is all very confusing to me :confused: I'm a very low tech person and I don't understand how this works at all! Do you actually watch the shows on your TV screen or on your PC screen?

[Michael D'Angelo]

This is all very confusing to me :confused: I'm a very low tech person and I don't understand how this works at all! Do you actually watch the shows on your TV screen or on your PC screen?

You watch it on your TV. Well actually you can use DIRECTV2PC and watch it on your PC too if you want.

Once your DVR is connected to the internet you will get a On Demand option added to your menu. It takes about 24 hours for it to completely load all of the guide data.

Once you are set up you just select a program and it downloads the program over the internet instead of it being delivered via the SAT's. It gives you the option to start watching the program any time you want but the list of programs are limited. Not every channel and program is available.

[Richierich]

You watch it on your TV after you download the Movie to your DVR.

[Dolly]

You watch it on your TV. Well actually you can use DIRECTV2PC and watch it on your PC too if you want.

Once your DVR is connected to the internet you will get a On Demand option added to your menu. It takes about 24 hours for it to completely load all of the guide data.

Once you are set up you just select a program and it downloads the program over the internet instead of it being delivered via the SAT's. It gives you the option to start watching the program any time you want but the list of programs are limited. Not every channel and program is available.
Thanks for your great explaination :sunsmile: It is hard for me to believe all that can be done! Sometimes I feel that everyone else lives in 2009 and I live in about 1909 :lol:

[Lord Vader]

Thanks for your great explaination :sunsmile: It is hard for me to believe all that can be done! Sometimes I feel that everyone else lives in 2009 and I live in about 1909 :lol:

You're THAT old? Holy crap!

:rolling:

[Richierich]

How are things back in 1909? I may have some questions for you.

[iucpa]

Can someone point me to a good setup option? My HD-DVR is not near my router, nor can it be (long story involving a specially wired line by the phone company), so I think I'm down to having to use something like the powerline connection, or get a gaming adapter or other (?) wireless ethernet adapter to set by my DVR - is this right? If so, can anyone recommend a cheap/easy way to set this up?

Thanks!

[Richierich]

Do a Search on WGA600N and you will find all the info you need in order to make a decision.

[RAD]

Can someone point me to a good setup option? My HD-DVR is not near my router, nor can it be (long story involving a specially wired line by the phone company), so I think I'm down to having to use something like the powerline connection, or get a gaming adapter or other (?) wireless ethernet adapter to set by my DVR - is this right? If so, can anyone recommend a cheap/easy way to set this up?

Thanks!

As mentioned the WGA600N is supported by the HR2X's. The DirecTV web site also has powerline adapters you can purchase to also allow for conneting your HD-DVR to the network. I've used a WGA600N and as long as it can get a good signal and a fairly high speed connection it works fine, but as soon as something interfers and drops the speed enough you'll start to see pauses in the playback.

[Richierich]

The only problem with a Powerline Adapter is that you have to be on the same circuit with both boxes that you plug in or it want work at all or not very well. I've got one sitting in my closet right now because it didn't work very well.

[RAD]

The only problem with a Powerline Adapter is that you have to be on the same circuit with both boxes that you plug in or it want work at all or not very well. I've got one sitting in my closet right now because it didn't work very well.

IIRC it's not the same circuit but on the same 'hot' feeds in the breaker box (aka both on either the right or left side). If that turns out to be a problem I would think you could get an electrician to swap a couple circuits around in the box so they are on the same feed.

[Richierich]

Well, I am calling out an electrician today so I will ask him if he can check it out because I couldn't get it to work with my Slingbox and Slinglink Turbo so now it sits in a closet.

[philherz]

I've used a WGA600N and as long as it can get a good signal and a fairly high speed connection it works fine, but as soon as something interfers and drops the speed enough you'll start to see pauses in the playback.

When you say "pauses in the playback," I assume you mean when it's fully recorded and you play it back and not if you try to watch it while it's recording!!??

Unless you're on a T-1 line, can you even watch one of these as it's recording?

[DrummerBoy523]

When you say "pauses in the playback," I assume you mean when it's fully recorded and you play it back and not if you try to watch it while it's recording!!??

Unless you're on a T-1 line, can you even watch one of these as it's recording?

yes you can. I am using powerline with my cable internet, and by the time I add the show to the queue and then go to the list, I can usually start watching...

[TominOH]

Is anyone using Linksys WET54G wireless bridge for DOD with an HR20. I've upgraded firmware on the bridge and wireless router but it still won't connect. It's probably something simple I'm missing. Any suggestions? thx, Tom

[philherz]

Is anyone using Linksys WET54G wireless bridge for DOD with an HR20. I've upgraded firmware on the bridge and wireless router but it still won't connect. It's probably something simple I'm missing. Any suggestions? thx, Tom

I just hooked up a WGA54G.

My only suggestion is to remember to turn everything off and reboot your router. I tried playing around for a while without success, but it all proceeded quickly once I did that!

Good luck...hope some experts get back to you soon!!!

[TominOH]

I just hooked up a WGA54G.

My only suggestion is to remember to turn everything off and reboot your router. I tried playing around for a while without success, but it all proceeded quickly once I did that!

Good luck...hope some experts get back to you soon!!!

Good news! (maybe it's the luck o' the Irish) ^_^
It finally connected after doing 2 things.
1) changed the IP settings on the HR20 -menu=>setup=>system setup=>network=>advanced setup to match the wireless bridge(WET54G)

2) then conneced the bridge by ethernet to the router to access the web-based setup page and on first page(setup) clicked "site survey" - soon the wireless router showed up as available - then clicked the SSID router name and it syncronized the SSID for the router and bridge(even though they were already the same network name)
then disconnected bridge from router and connected to HR20 via ethernet and again did the 'connect now' from HR20 menu and it finally connected.

Glad to hear your's is working too Phil, thx for the post.

Cheers,
Tom

[philherz]

Good news! (maybe it's the luck o' the Irish) ^_^
It finally connected after doing 2 things.
1) changed the IP settings on the HR20 -Demand>network>advanced setup to match the wireless bridge(WET54G)

2) then conneced the bridge by ethernet to the router to access the web-based setup page and on first page(setup) clicked "site survey" - soon the wireless router showed up as available - then clicked the SSID router name and it syncronized the SSID for the router and bridge(even though they were already the same)
then disconnected bridge from router and connected to HR20 via ethernet and again did the 'connect now' from HR20 menu and it finally connected.

Glad to hear your's is working too Phil, thx for the post.

Cheers,
Tom

Glad you got it working!!

I'm usually pretty meticulous and write everything down, but after rebooting the works and going with the setup wizard, it pretty much did everything on it's own.

Then again, I have Vista and as much as it's criticized, I find that it seems to make certain tasks proceed a whole lot easier than my XP computer.

[TominOH]

Glad you got it working!!

I'm usually pretty meticulous and write everything down, but after rebooting the works and going with the setup wizard, it pretty much did everything on it's own.

Then again, I have Vista and as much as it's criticized, I find that it seems to make certain tasks proceed a whole lot easier than my XP computer.

After it first connected I tried to download a movie just as a test and it started to download ok but was extremely slow(2% after 20 mins.) then the download and its progress stopped and disappeared from the playlist(probably cuz it was so slow).

After a reboot as you(Phil) suggested of all 3 components (modem, router and bridge) they connected instantly and the connection was very fast. Tried the same movie download again and it finished in about 20-25 mins.

The VOD channels in the regular guide under 1000 showed up over night.

Thx again for the info,
Tom

[philherz]

After it first connected I tried to download a movie just as a test and it started to download ok but was extremely slow(2% after 20 mins.) then the download and its progress stopped and disappeared from the playlist(probably cuz it was so slow).

After a reboot as you(Phil) suggested of all 3 components (modem, router and bridge) they connected instantly and the connection was very fast. Tried the same movie download again and it finished in about 20-25 mins.

The VOD channels in the regular guide under 1000 showed up over night.

Thx again for the info,
Tom

It's amazing how critical that reboot sequence can be!

FYI- I was using the DoD yesterday to download a Showtime HD movie and didn't realize how much it would slow up my PC's downloads on my clunky DSL connection! I paused the movie download and my PC connection literally doubled it's connection speed.

I know DoD is criticized by many folks, but, with a little planning, works fine for me!!

[jaguar325]

I have a basic Linksys wireless-G setup with a router serving as the main point of distribution and two remote wireless extender-type devices. One is a WMB54G Wireless Music Bridge which allows for transmission of audio from a PC to my home A/V stack. It has an ethernet port in the back which I use to plug one of my DVRs (HR22-100) into and get OD service. This worked the first time with zero setup involved. The second DVR (HR20-100) is not connected to the internet. Somebody told me I could use the "port 2" on the back of the HR22 to make a second Ethernet connection to the HR20 - with the caveat that I would need to set both DVRs to static IP addresses. Has anybody done that and could point me to a post with details? I know how to get into the main router's setup page but don't do it enough to say I am familiar with it. Nor have I ever set up any devices in my house with static IPs. Lastly, if this can be done without static IPs, all the better.

Thanks,

Big K

[veryoldschool]

Has anybody done that and could point me to a post with details? I know how to get into the main router's setup page but don't do it enough to say I am familiar with it. Nor have I ever set up any devices in my house with static IPs. Lastly, if this can be done without static IPs, all the better.

Thanks,

Big K
I have my H21 "daiychained" off my HR21 [second port], works fine, don't use static IPs, and use "normal" router setting with DHCP.

[jaguar325]

I have my H21 "daiychained" off my HR21 [second port], works fine, don't use static IPs, and use "normal" router setting with DHCP.

Thanks for the encouragement - did it, worked first time - took about 30 secs to do setup (hit "repeat setup" - it automatically recognized the HR20 - done!).

[dcowboy7]

directv says to get vod u need to get their installation kit for internet/hd dvr hookup....is that true ?

[RAD]

directv says to get vod u need to get their installation kit for internet/hd dvr hookup....is that true ?

No, all you need is to connect the receiver to your homes internet connection and you're set. If you don't have a wired connection available then they make the powerline and wireless adapters available if you need them.

[veryoldschool]

directv says to get vod u need to get their installation kit for internet/hd dvr hookup....is that true ?
You need to have a way to connect it to the internet. "Their" installation kit, is but one way to do this. I "just" grabbed some network cables and connected my receivers to my router.

[dcowboy7]

No, all you need is to connect the receiver to your homes internet connection and you're set. If you don't have a wired connection available then they make the powerline and wireless adapters available if you need them.

You need to have a way to connect it to the internet. "Their" installation kit, is but one way to do this. I "just" grabbed some network cables and connected my receivers to my router.

ok thx.

[CindyJ]

directv says to get vod u need to get their installation kit for internet/hd dvr hookup....is that true ?
I was starting from scratch -- no network at my house. I wanted to network my HR20-700, blu-ray player, Wii console and PC. I bought a Linksys Wireless Router (WRT160N) and Powerline Network Kit (PLK300). Very easy to set up and has worked flawlessly. Now all of my toys can get to the internet.

[jbaron76]

I just started using the DoD feature on my HR-22 receiver. I have yet to see the value in this service. The service itself may be free, but anything worth watching costs money. Anything good that doesn't cost is from a premium channel (HBO, Showtime, etc.). I don't have hours to search through the EXTREMELY SLOW interface to find the few free programs available that may be worth watching.

[DeanS]

I am a little disappointed in the DoD service myself. At first, I thought the number of programs and content that was available was staggering. But after perusing the many channels and categories, there isn't that much I'm interested in watching. Where, for instance is HBO on demand? Not to mention all the network shows that are not there. I was also in the mood for a "Sci Fi Friday" but, alas, no SciFi Channel On Demand. Hope things improve....

[geaux tigers]

When will the Tudors Season 3 Episode 5 be available for download?

[dcowboy7]

How come i dont have starz yet i can download movies like spiderman 3 on the starz on demand channel for free ?

[philherz]

How come i dont have starz yet i can download movies like spiderman 3 on the starz on demand channel for free ?

Do you possess any supernatural powers????

[Gary*W*]

When will the Tudors Season 3 Episode 5 be available for download?


It became available Monday afternoon.

[Gary*W*]

How come i dont have starz yet i can download movies like spiderman 3 on the starz on demand channel for free ?

I know that Showtime has a 'free' section maybe Starz does as well. also during free preview periods the on demand content is available.

[dcowboy7]

Do you possess any supernatural powers????

oh wait it wasnt S3 it was a movie on MGM....but i dont even get MGM ?

[Golfman]

Has anybody looked at the latest offerings on DOD? There are only a handful of offerings shown as HD. Whats going on? :confused:

[guffy1]

Has anybody looked at the latest offerings on DOD? There are only a handful of offerings shown as HD. Whats going on? :confused:

I noticed that last night as well, but all the HD appears to be back now. I have a VOD question I hope someone can answer. If I download a VOD program before the end date, can I still watch it after the end date as long as it was already downloaded?

[TominOH]

I have a VOD question I hope someone can answer. If I download a VOD program before the end date, can I still watch it after the end date as long as it was already downloaded?

The VOD programs downloaded will disappear from the playlist on the end date.

[philherz]

Last time I was at DoD, I found a lot of free movies to download....SONY channel or something.

I don't see too many movies now, at all!!

Am I missing something or did they switch some channels??

[mdavej]

It's pretty hit or miss with me too. Sometimes I get a huge list, other times not. I haven't figured it out, but they're still there somewhere. Sometimes just exiting and trying again gives me the full list. I understand that resetting my receiver will start rebuilding the list, so you'd have a lot missing then. But even if I haven't reset for several days, the list mysteriously comes and goes.

The Sony channel is great, but the MGM channels has some good free stuff too. I wish I could filter on just those.

[philherz]

It's pretty hit or miss with me too. Sometimes I get a huge list, other times not. I haven't figured it out, but they're still there somewhere. Sometimes just exiting and trying again gives me the full list. I understand that resetting my receiver will start rebuilding the list, so you'd have a lot missing then. But even if I haven't reset for several days, the list mysteriously comes and goes.

The Sony channel is great, but the MGM channels has some good free stuff too. I wish I could filter on just those.

I haven't seen SONY or MGM channels listed for 3 days.

1) Anyone know the channel #s?

2) Think rebooting my HR21 might get them back???

[JoeTheDragon]

I haven't seen SONY or MGM channels listed for 3 days.

1) Anyone know the channel #s?

2) Think rebooting my HR21 might get them back???

look on line it is under ch 1000

[philherz]

look on line it is under ch 1000

Thanks...worked fine.

Any idea why it was available on my HR-21 about 6 weeks ago when I did it last?

[Rakim]

I noticed that Royal Pains was available on demand from channel 1242 (USA), but when I looked at the On Demand listing of channels, and the channel guide itself, USA on demand is not listed. But, i was able to download an episode and view it.

Any other "hidden channels" I should be aware of?

[TominOH]

We just downloaded a episode of 'Scooby Doo' and when we tried to play it we got the dreaded "this program is not available thru your hdmi connection, switch to component cables to view this program."

I switched to the component input(both hdmi and comp. are connected to display) and the same message showed up.

[philherz]

I noticed that Royal Pains was available on demand from channel 1242 (USA), but when I looked at the On Demand listing of channels, and the channel guide itself, USA on demand is not listed. But, i was able to download an episode and view it.

Any other "hidden channels" I should be aware of?

If you look right above your post, you'll see I've had the same problem...I haven't seen SONY or MGM channels listed for at least 6 days.

"Browse by Channel" appears to be incomplete....I'm not sure if it's supposed to be like that or there's a problem & I don't know how to fix it!!!???

[philherz]

We just downloaded a episode of 'Scooby Doo' and when we tried to play it we got the dreaded "this program is not available thru your hdmi connection, switch to component cables to view this program."

I switched to the component input(both hdmi and comp. are connected to display) and the same message showed up.

I got the same message when I had my HR-21 connected to my TV with HDMI.

Switched to component only and I can view these fine.

[Rakim]

If you look right above your post, you'll see I've had the same problem...I haven't seen SONY or MGM channels listed for at least 6 days.

"Browse by Channel" appears to be incomplete....I'm not sure if it's supposed to be like that or there's a problem & I don't know how to fix it!!!???

Oh, gotcha. When I read yours originally, I thought it was different, but now I see it's the same. I didn't think my channel list ever changed, just that I finally noticed that a specific show was available by name, but not in the guide.

It's a little frustrating...

[philherz]

Oh, gotcha. When I read yours originally, I thought it was different, but now I see it's the same. I didn't think my channel list ever changed, just that I finally noticed that a specific show was available by name, but not in the guide.

It's a little frustrating...

I know!!

I'm still waiting for one of our experts to let us know if it's actually supposed to be like this...I know SONY & MGM used to be available for "Browsing by Channel" a few months ago!!!!!

[gpg]

The "phantom" USA DOD channel also has In Plain Sight episodes, but the channel itself doesn't appear in my guide or browse by channel list. All the episodes are SD.

[khark]

I have noticed picture breakup on all of the movies I have downloaded. It looks almost like water running across the screen. Has anyone else seen this?:confused:

[philherz]

I have noticed picture breakup on all of the movies I have downloaded. It looks almost like water running across the screen. Has anyone else seen this?:confused:

All channels or just some movies?

I find the movies are a bit fuzzy....I assume do to the low file sizes they must use for quicker downloading, but nothing like you're describing!

Did you try an HD movie? They tend to look fine.

[khark]

All channels or just some movies?

I find the movies are a bit fuzzy....I assume do to the low file sizes they must use for quicker downloading, but nothing like you're describing!

Did you try an HD movie? They tend to look fine.

All I have ever downloaded are HD and so far ever one I have watched has the problem. When the picture isn't breaking up the picture quality is great.

This problem is only with VOD.

[airedale]

Others have asked and I still haven't found the answer...

Where is HBO?! I would subscribe to HBO if I knew it was available via DoD. I had cable 2 years ago and loved the OnDemand option with HBO. It is the *only* thing I miss from cable.

Is DirecTV just having a hard time negotiating for the rights to distribute in this form?

[philherz]

All I have ever downloaded are HD and so far ever one I have watched has the problem. When the picture isn't breaking up the picture quality is great.

This problem is only with VOD.

That's really strange!!

Did you ever try to watch one of these in "real time" to see if that's messed up too? Of course unless you really have a fast connection, real time might be in 10 second spurts......

good luck!!

[khark]

That's really strange!!

Did you ever try to watch one of these in "real time" to see if that's messed up too? Of course unless you really have a fast connection, real time might be in 10 second spurts......

good luck!!

No, I have only watched recorded shows but I have never seen this problem when watching programs that are not VOD. Of course I have seen other problems much the same as many other people.

[philherz]

No, I have only watched recorded shows but I have never seen this problem when watching programs that are not VOD. Of course I have seen other problems much the same as many other people.

Just for the heck of it, pick anything and try to watch it after 2 or 3 minutes.....

[d max82]

All I have ever downloaded are HD and so far ever one I have watched has the problem. When the picture isn't breaking up the picture quality is great.

This problem is only with VOD.

I've noticed the same thing lately, perticularly in the Nurse Jackie HD episodes(with the breakups occuring 15 times in a 30 minute period or so). I'm starting to wonder if its the dvr itself, as I would thing someone at directv would notice these obvious encoding errors

[armophob]

The biggest problem I see with VOD is that you won't have enough time to watch all you download before it expires. :)
So, you'll need to see how long each show is available and then plan your downloads.

Even that won't be helpful. I just found out the hard way. I downloaded all of Madmen season 1 and was watching an episode a week. All the unwatched ones just disappeared, and now season 2 is up for download. So they all expire on a set date no matter when they get downloaded. Has anyone explained why these are on a timer?

[veryoldschool]

Has anyone explained why these are on a timer?
No, but I download a VOD and it seems to have been on the last day, because the next morning.. poof, it was gone.

[armophob]

No, but I download a VOD and it seems to have been on the last day, because the next morning.. poof, it was gone.

I would love to hear the reasoning behind this. If they take down material to be downloaded in the interest of server space, it is understandable. But why is my DVR like my refrigerator? Why do I have to keep an eye on the milk and leftovers to see if they are about to be thrown out?

[DCSholtis]

Since when did 2 of the "adult" channels get DoD versions. Just realized that last night.

[philherz]

DoD seems to work for some movie downloads (Showtime/TMC), but not for others.

If I enter 2 or more movies, they are all confirmed, but some eventually get an error 1011: canceled --OR-- #3005: unable to download.

If I reschedule, they usually work the 2nd or 3rd try.

Suggestions???