How to change Hard Drive in a PVR 501 receiver?

[nanaimoman]

I need to replace the hard drive in my Dish PVR 501 receiver. I've checked all the places I know of for instructions, however I can't find any. I know it's not the same as replacing a hard drive in a computer, so if anyone knows what to do, or can point me in the direction of where I can find out how, I would greatly appreciate the help!
Thanks

[Mark Holtz]

Quick answer: You can't. The hard drive is "married" to the receiver, and it's almost impossible to get a "divorce". :)

Good answer: The 501/508 receivers firmware, as part of the initialization process, burns the hard drive specifications into the unit so you can't even swap out one hard drive for a similar size hard drive. The only known (and unverified) method involves hacking into the unit, which means that it can't be discussed here.