Replacing HR10-250 to HR20-700

[usualsuspect]

Hi Everyone:

Today I finally decided to replace my HR10-250 for the HR20-700. DTV said they will give me the whole set-up for 19.99. It is really to hard to pass up especially since my HR10 has been rebooting again as of late. I explained to them that I wanted the HR20-700 for aestetic reasons (silver box matches my entertainment center) along with the OTA capabilities even though I would get most if not all my locals anyways.

In reading through pages of eSata set-up's, etc... I am thinking about buying a FAP 750 GB with a SIIG CB-SA0111-S1. The reason I am thinking about buying the FAP is that I have $100 in rewards bucks to spend at bestbuy. I don't think they carry most set-up's I read about here.

Is there anything else I should know before I make the switch over? Any advice would be greatly appreciated...

Regards,

[curt8403]

you will like the new unit, and you are back in business for HD :D

[gulfwarvet]

yes,
you might not get the HR20-700, you could end up with the HR21-700 instead of the HR20.

[gulfwarvet]

Oh, and if you do get the HR21 here's a thread about the OTA solution.
http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=115134

[doctrsnoop]

Some people are having issues with the FAP, search under that term for them.

Also make sure you check some representative channels from each satellite before you let the installer go. Some locals if you have them, MPEG2 (the 70s), the regular channels and of course the MPEG4 channels - the 200's and up HDchannels.

And read the TIVO users survival guide. It helps. I gave up my HR10 2 months ago and was skeptical, but I'm good now.

[curt8403]

Some people are having issues with the FAP, search under that term for them.

Also make sure you check some representative channels from each satellite before you let the installer go. Some locals if you have them, MPEG2 (the 70s), the regular channels and of course the MPEG4 channels - the 200's and up HDchannels.

And read the TIVO users survival guide. It helps. I gave up my HR10 2 months ago and was skeptical, but I'm good now.
\MPEG 2 is dying, most of the 70s channels have migrated\

[Pink Fairy]

No, they have not migrated yet. And DIRECTV has not announced when they will.

However, they eventually WILL.

[usualsuspect]

yes,
you might not get the HR20-700, you could end up with the HR21-700 instead of the HR20.

I was promised the HR20, in fact the rep was impressed that I knew the difference in receivers. I guess time will tell but I will try and talk to them before they come out again to ensure I am getting this. I would hate to have all silver in my entertainment center with a black unit that don't match. I know that sounds silly but my wife is a royal PIA about this :D

[usualsuspect]

Some people are having issues with the FAP, search under that term for them.

Also make sure you check some representative channels from each satellite before you let the installer go. Some locals if you have them, MPEG2 (the 70s), the regular channels and of course the MPEG4 channels - the 200's and up HDchannels.

And read the TIVO users survival guide. It helps. I gave up my HR10 2 months ago and was skeptical, but I'm good now.

Thanks, I did do a search but I am finding more positive feedback versus the negative... Any advice what drive I should get??

[gulfwarvet]

I was promised the HR20, in fact the rep was impressed that I knew the difference in receivers. I guess time will tell but I will try and talk to them before they come out again to ensure I am getting this. I would hate to have all silver in my entertainment center with a black unit that don't match. I know that sounds silly but my wife is a royal PIA about this :D


just remember you'll only get whats on the installers truck. the CSR that took your order can't grantee what you'll receive.
i do wish you luck on getting what you was promised.

[cover]

Thanks, I did do a search but I am finding more positive feedback versus the negative... Any advice what drive I should get??

I have FAPs working fine on my HR20s. But, if I were you, I would the Antec enclosure and a 1TB drive or another prebuilt external 1TB drive based on the following

* you may end up with an HR21 and they seem to have trouble with the FAP
* 1TB storage is better than 750GB.

[usualsuspect]

I have FAPs working fine on my HR20s. But, if I were you, I would the Antec enclosure and a 1TB drive or another prebuilt external 1TB drive based on the following

* you may end up with an HR21 and they seem to have trouble with the FAP
* 1TB storage is better than 750GB.

Thanks, I think I am going with the Antec set-up. It seems to be the safest bet at this point. Thanks for all the feedback!! :)

[cforrest]

I just had my free swap out done today of my HR10. I received a HR21, which is fine with me since I don't do OTA. I would guess the HR20s are in short supply, if there are any left out there. I was sad to see them take away my HR10, but wasn't going to fight to keep it, not worth the aggravation.

[usualsuspect]

I just had my free swap out done today of my HR10. I received a HR21, which is fine with me since I don't do OTA. I would guess the HR20s are in short supply, if there are any left out there. I was sad to see them take away my HR10, but wasn't going to fight to keep it, not worth the aggravation.

Well, they are not going to take my HR10 since I paid a $1000 when it came out and I own it. I plan to use it for SD in my bedroom since it has more storage capacity.

[jodyguercio]

Well, they are not going to take my HR10 since I paid a $1000 when it came out and I own it. I plan to use it for SD in my bedroom since it has more storage capacity.

That and it does have the OTA HD tuner in it as well so you can still get OTA locals if possible and record them as well.

[snarfshark]

If you do get an HR21, you should try the emailing DirecTV and requesting an HR20.
It worked for me.

When I did my HR10-250 upgrade I requested an HR20 from DirecTV, and they said they couldn't guarantee I would receive one. Called my local installer (Ironwood) and they said they no longer had any HR20s. When the installer showed up, sure enough he had an HR21. I decided to keep my HR10-250 for OTA only, and accept the HR21.

After reading some threads here on dbstalk, I decided to try emailing DirecTV. Got a canned response within a day, saying they were sorry and would investigate the possibility of getting me an HR20.

Got a call and an email from a supervisor 2 weeks later. Said they would request an HR20 but that the computer was showing none available in the warehouse. Within 2 days I received an HR20-100. There was no charge for either the initial upgrade nor the HR20.

[usualsuspect]

If you do get an HR21, you should try the emailing DirecTV and requesting an HR20.
It worked for me.

When I did my HR10-250 upgrade I requested an HR20 from DirecTV, and they said they couldn't guarantee I would receive one. Called my local installer (Ironwood) and they said they no longer had any HR20s. When the installer showed up, sure enough he had an HR21. I decided to keep my HR10-250 for OTA only, and accept the HR21.

After reading some threads here on dbstalk, I decided to try emailing DirecTV. Got a canned response within a day, saying they were sorry and would investigate the possibility of getting me an HR21.

Got a call and an email from a supervisor 2 weeks later. Said they would request an HR20 but that the computer was showing none available in the warehouse. Within 2 days I received an HR20-100. There was no charge for either the initial upgrade nor the HR20.

Thanks, I actually spoke with retention tonight and they are getting me a HR20-700. they also said I didn't even have to pay the 19.99 that for S&H, totally free. However, they told me the box will not be available till 2/8. I told the CSR that if the installer comes with the HR21, I don't want it. He noted my account so that they have the right box when they get here. The call went very smooth, the hardest part was ensuring that I will get the HR20 versus the HR21.. :D

[Milominderbinder2]

From the HD DVR FAQ (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?p=817199#post817199): What do I need to know about HD DVR ordering and installation?
→ Ordering Tips (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?p=839938#post839938)
→ Installation Guide (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=67769)

Is there an easy way to get started?
→ 5-Minute Quick Start (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?p=1030380#post1030380) ● Undocumented HD DVR PLUS Tips & Tricks (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?p=747592)

What can help me transition from TiVo? How do I get Suggestions?
→ TiVo Users Survival Guide (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=69404) ● Better Suggestions than TiVo! (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=109588)

- Craig

[usualsuspect]

Thanks Craig, I plan to read through this tomorrow!! :)

[wingrider01]

Well, they are not going to take my HR10 since I paid a $1000 when it came out and I own it. I plan to use it for SD in my bedroom since it has more storage capacity.


I was under the impression that if you accept the low cost/free upgrade you are required to return the HR10

[jodyguercio]

I was under the impression that if you accept the low cost/free upgrade you are required to return the HR10

Well they didnt take mine, just dropped off the HR20-100 and said have a nice day. We had already installed the 5LNB dish ourselves.

[Stuart Sweet]

Whether or not the HR10 needs to be returned, the installer should not take it. If they want it back they will send a recovery kit. More and more, they do not want them back.

[usualsuspect]

I was under the impression that if you accept the low cost/free upgrade you are required to return the HR10

Nope, I paid for the thing out right so they are not getting my HR10. Maybe if I was leasing it, I could see them taking it.

In my case there were a couple things that go into paying zero for an upgrade. I have been a customer for at least 8 years now, have the premier package, HD package, sunday ticket, NHL and 4 IRDS and of course the most important factor, signing a 2 year agreement.

[jimb726]

Nope, I paid for the thing out right so they are not getting my HR10. Maybe if I was leasing it, I could see them taking it.

In my case there were a couple things that go into paying zero for an upgrade. I have been a customer for at least 8 years now, have the premier package, HD package, sunday ticket, NHL and 4 IRDS and of course the most important factor, signing a 2 year agreement.

Just make sure that you get that clear with the CSR and have them put it on the order. Although the vast majority of people are saying that their HR10 was not taken, recently it seems that there are people saying that DirecTV wants it back. At the very least tell them you want it relocated, them you would most likely have an issue.

[usualsuspect]

Hi Folks:

Ok, anxiously awaiting my install on Friday 2/8 (HR20 or HR21). In the meantime, I received my Antec MX-1 and 750 GB WD drive. Is it ok to put the hard drive in the Antec prior to Friday so I can have it ready to go? If so, is this an easy set-up?

Also, what is the process to hook the external into the HR20 or HR21? For some reason I could not find the instuctions (probably missed them) which I am sure is an easy set-up..

Thanks in Advance!!

[spaldingclan]

Hi Folks:

Ok, anxiously awaiting my install on Friday 2/8 (HR20 or HR21). In the meantime, I received my Antec MX-1 and 750 GB WD drive. Is it ok to put the hard drive in the Antec prior to Friday so I can have it ready to go? If so, is this an easy set-up?

Also, what is the process to hook the external into the HR20 or HR21? For some reason I could not find the instuctions (probably missed them) which I am sure is an easy set-up..

Thanks in Advance!!

ok, not to say they are lying to you...but I was also PROMISED an HR20-700 and two different times they sent an HR21...I finally acquiesced and have the HR21.

[David Ortiz]

I just had my free swap out done today of my HR10. I received a HR21, which is fine with me since I don't do OTA. I would guess the HR20s are in short supply, if there are any left out there. I was sad to see them take away my HR10, but wasn't going to fight to keep it, not worth the aggravation.

Well, they are not going to take my HR10 since I paid a $1000 when it came out and I own it. I plan to use it for SD in my bedroom since it has more storage capacity.

Whether or not the HR10 needs to be returned, the installer should not take it. If they want it back they will send a recovery kit. More and more, they do not want them back.

When I called to get the upgrade, the CSR said that the installer would take the HR10-250. They did everything for $0 and I initialed the work order showing that the installer was taking the HR10-250. I paid $900 for it, but I'd rather have a receiver that can record anything HD from DIRECTV instead of a dinosaur. When MRV is available, I'll be ready.

[MikeP]

I called to replace my HR10-250 and was able to get a $120 credit on my account ($10 off for 12 months). The rep said I could buy the receiver @ Best Buy and just call in to get it activated. This was the best deal I could get since I already have existing HR20s and H20s receivers on my account. I was able to get a new HR20-100s for $170 on ebay, so I was extremely lucky.

[rhambling]

All tivo dvr's that are being returned are getting scraped . not even refurbed.

[rhambling]

if you want a free upgrade damage the old h10 or hr10 to the point of needing replacement, get a service call, and since they dont have these models anymore, you will get a new h20 or hr20.

[MikeP]

When I called to get the upgrade, the CSR said that the installer would take the HR10-250. They did everything for $0 and I initialed the work order showing that the installer was taking the HR10-250. I paid $900 for it, but I'd rather have a receiver that can record anything HD from DIRECTV instead of a dinosaur. When MRV is available, I'll be ready.

I still have my HR10-250. They didn't want it back.

[usualsuspect]

I asked the rep. if they had any intentions on trying to take my HR10 and she said "absolutley not, they have no need for it."

At this point I really don't care whether I get a HR20 or HR21. Thankfully I get all my locals in Philly.

Can anyone help with respect to my original post regarding the Antec and how to set-up the external drive? or point me in the right direction?

Many thanks!!

[Richierich]

You have to boot up your external drive, then plug in your eSATA cables to your Antec MX-1 and your HR21 (I am betting you will not get an HR20), then hit the Red Reset button on your HR21 and let it reboot. It will then recognize port activity on the SATA port and know to then boot up with the external drive versus the internal drive.

If it doesn't detect any port activity it will boot up with the internal drive.

Anytime you won't to go back to your internal drive, just turn off the external drive and hit the red reset button on your HR21 and it will not recognize the external drive and it will boot up with the internal drive.

[usualsuspect]

You have to boot up your external drive, then plug in your eSATA cables to your Antec MX-1 and your HR21 (I am betting you will not get an HR20), then hit the Red Reset button on your HR21 and let it reboot. It will then recognize port activity on the SATA port and know to then boot up with the external drive versus the internal drive.

If it doesn't detect any port activity it will boot up with the internal drive.

Anytime you won't to go back to your internal drive, just turn off the external drive and hit the red reset button on your HR21 and it will not recognize the external drive and it will boot up with the internal drive.

Thanks Rich!! I guess we will wait to see what they bring. Like I said, at this point it doesn't matter which box..

[Richierich]

One more tip or a bit of advice.

If you have a momentary power outage and it boots back up before the external drive has fully powered up it won't detect any SATA Port activity so it will boot up with the internal drive.

That is why it is GOOD to have a Battery Backup which will prevent the constant rebooting if you have alot of frequent power outages.

I just bought an HR20-700 tonight on Ebay because I have OTA and I don't won't to wait for the AM21 to come out. God knows when that will be and the HR20 gets software released a long time before the HR21 does. The HR20 has already gotten the latest release this month and they are not even saying when the HR21 will begin its SR rollout.

[usualsuspect]

One more tip or a bit of advice.

If you have a momentary power outage and it boots back up before the external drive has fully powered up it won't detect any SATA Port activity so it will boot up with the internal drive.

That is why it is GOOD to have a Battery Backup which will prevent the constant rebooting if you have alot of frequent power outages.

Thanks Rich!! I will buy a battery backup as well. If this happens, do I simply set-the external back-up?

[cover]

Thanks Rich!! I will buy a battery backup as well. If this happens, do I simply set-the external back-up?

If I understand your question, in case the HR20 doesn't "see" the external drive when it restarts you would just need to power down the HR20. Then, make sure the eSATA drive has power first and then power the HR20 back up. It should then see the eSATA drive again.

If you get a UPS (something like an APC BackUPS 350 is fine) and plug both the HR20 and the eSATA drive into it so that they have batter back up, this should rarely or never be a problem.

[usualsuspect]

If I understand your question, in case the HR20 doesn't "see" the external drive when it restarts you would just need to power down the HR20. Then, make sure the eSATA drive has power first and then power the HR20 back up. It should then see the eSATA drive again.

If you get a UPS (something like an APC BackUPS 350 is fine) and plug both the HR20 and the eSATA drive into it so that they have batter back up, this should rarely or never be a problem.

Thanks cover, that answered my question!! I appreciate all the help here...:)

[usualsuspect]

Update:

Ok folks, got my new dish installed today along with the HR21-700. Funny thing is, the installer actually had a HR20-700 (I was surprised) but the unit would not turn on. The installer said it was probably a refurb that was still not working. Luckily, he did have a HR-21 to use in place of the HR20. The installer was great, he showed me some stuff for future reference with my wiring etc...

To be honest, the 21 is good looking box. I am getting used to the guide etc.... Next thing for me tonight is to install the external HD when the kids go to sleep :)

Wish me luck and thanks for all the help provided here!!