Adding a Third TV - activate 508?

[finniganps]

I will be moving soon. I currently have a 722 which supplies video for two TV's. In the new location, I will likely add another TV. Is there any reason I can't just activate my 508 and use it for the third TV assuming I ask Dish to run the cable for the third location? I realize that the 508 will only work as long as they still allow MPEG2 receivers, but it might be a good short term solution (I haven't heard when the MPEG2 recievers will no longer work). Assuming I do that, wouldn't my only additional cost be $5/mo. for another tuner? Thoughts?

[garys]

You should have no problem except if the receiver's software is outdated. In this case, the receiver would have to be hooked up and allowed to download the new software before it would take the activation.

[jkane]

What he said! I have an old 501 that we turned on a couple months ago as a temp backup. It would not work without a new card and then, it took for ever with tech support on the line getting them to keep sending it messages to start working. I am sure a upgrade happened in there. But the card may be a couple day delay. It won't upgrade software without a new card, and it won't work with the new card until it upgrades the software!

It worked, but was a mess and took a couple days to get it working. Now we don't need it anymore. I keep forgetting to have it turned back off.

[finniganps]

Thanks for the responses. I called Dish and they said I needed to activate the box before the move appt., than they would include it in the install...she couldn't confirm the additional monthly fee would likely be $5 for the additional receiver (I own the 508). She said they may not be waiving DVR fees on these anymore...I hope that isn't true. Otherwise I'll find out what else I can get that is MPEG4.

[coldsteel]

There's still no DVR fees for 501/508, so still $5 a month. Correct about having the box active before the move order so it's covered however.

[shadough]

You'll need to use the Western Arc; The installer should know this. The 508 will not work on a dish pointed at the eastern birds. Assuming you've got LOS to the west, an the receiver has a purple card, it'll work.