Official: Tips and Tricks for the HR20

[Earl Bonovich]

This is an official DirecTV document; directly from their HR20 page.

Spec Sheet:
http://www.directv.com/images/assets/Landing/HR20/HR20SpecSheet.pdf

Tips and Tricks:
http://www.directv.com/DTVAPP/global/contentPage.jsp?assetId=P3940008

Thanks Alan for posting the link to the HR20 page.

[KCWolfPck]

It just appears to be a spec sheet. What's up with the Tips and Tricks thread title?

[Alan Gordon]

It just appears to be a spec sheet. What's up with the Tips and Tricks thread title?

I guess Earl just wanted to make sure people saw the the TWO ATSC tuners part! ;)

Of course, I'm not sure if he noticed down at the bottom where it said that ATSC tuners would be activated in "Late 2006". Granted, October is Late 2006, but I would have preferred "Coming Soon" instead...

~Alan

[Earl Bonovich]

Sorry about that... didn't realize there where two URLS

http://www.directv.com/DTVAPP/global/contentPage.jsp?assetId=P3940008

for the tips and tricks

[cabanaboy1977]

"--The Message icon informs you when there are unread messages in your Inbox"

That's nice that they tell you about something that they have haven't bothered to use. Hopefully this is a sign that they will start using this to let HR20 and R15 owners know about new features and updates.

[PoitNarf]

Tip 1: Get to the Guide Quickly
Avoid the Category Sort screen by just pressing GUIDE twice.

I've got a tip for you D*, make it so it's an option so I only have to press it once! :rolleyes:

[Slyster]

I use the "Universal Remote" R7... I just learned 'guide' into an unused button, and the made the "GUIDE" button a macro that does two of the 'guide' buttons.. so now when I push it.. BOOM.. right to guide!

Of course.. you can't do this with the original remote.. but everyone should get a 'any brand' universal remote with lighting and better layout and all.. I use "Univeral Remote" brand R7... love it... brother uses a Harmony model.

[Bornzo]

Earl,

I had a question re:HR20. Does this dvr allow for the use of the ota antenna? I have read that this is not possible as of now. Is this true? I have a HR20 on order for a 9/29 install and if this is true I will cancel because I would not be able to receive WGN or WTTW in HD.

Mike

[Earl Bonovich]

As of right now...Yes, the OTA has been disabled.

Current information, has it being enabled possible in October.

[tfederov]

Any chance someone has put out a TiVo to HR20 cheat sheet? Something like a side by side .pdf might be helpful to those making the transition. For example, and I know this one may seem simple but I don't know anything about the DIRECTV models, "Now Playing -> MyVOD" and the steps to get there.

[cabanaboy1977]

There not a Tivo to HR20 that I know off but you can check out the R15 FAQ. A lot of the info in it applys to HR20 too. http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=58959. It may not be 100% the same but it will give you a good base starting point.

[grate88]

Tip 1: Get to the Guide Quickly
Avoid the Category Sort screen by just pressing GUIDE twice.

I've got a tip for you D*, make it so it's an option so I only have to press it once! :rolleyes:

Accidentally hit the BACK button instead of guide, and guess what...The guide comes up by pushing that one button. Give it a shot.

[jamieh1]

Accidentally hit the BACK button instead of guide, and guess what...The guide comes up by pushing that one button. Give it a shot.

The back button performs the last function you did.

Example: hit list the exit out. Then hit back, the list comes back on.

[harsh]

Tip 1: Get to the Guide Quickly
Avoid the Category Sort screen by just pressing GUIDE twice.

I've got a tip for you D*, make it so it's an option so I only have to press it once! :rolleyes:But then you'd miss all of the "on demand" content that they have thoughtfully downloaded on your behalf.

[laxcoach]

Anyone know how to turn off the annoying active content while I'm watching Sunday Ticket? If freaking killed me on Sunday.

1-10 seconds after changing the channels an overlayed program comes up and blocks the football game. The first couple of times I didn't pay attention and I thought it was part of the broadcast.

[scheckeNYK]

Anyone know how to turn off the annoying active content while I'm watching Sunday Ticket? If freaking killed me on Sunday.

1-10 seconds after changing the channels an overlayed program comes up and blocks the football game. The first couple of times I didn't pay attention and I thought it was part of the broadcast.

great one! so annoying! and I barely got any of my alerts anyway, so what was the point? i had 9 guys in FF and i only got 2 alerts all day, but i must have seen that popup a hundred times. you'd think it could at least go away after i did what it said.

[DJConan]

Any chance someone has put out a TiVo to HR20 cheat sheet? Something like a side by side .pdf might be helpful to those making the transition. For example, and I know this one may seem simple but I don't know anything about the DIRECTV models, "Now Playing -> MyVOD" and the steps to get there.

I'm with you. I was using a stand alone Tivo and I've been playing with the HR20 since I picked it up last night. Very different. Different terminology has me looking right at the option I need sometimes and not realizing that it's the option I need. :lol:

I have some things that I think are not working right, so I get confused as to learning how to do something because it didn't work the first time I tried it, so I marked that off the list as to how to do it.

I seem to have problems pausing a program that is currently recording. I hit pause and the progress bar displays, but it won't pause. It will replay and it will slip, but not pause.

How do you get to the beginning of a VOD that is nearing the end? Rewind takes too long.

Is there a way to search symbols in the keyword search? I'm trying to figure out how to record Baltimore Ravens games w/o it recording every show related to the Ravens.

I don't exactly understand what the AutoRecord option means and how it differs from Record or why AutoRecord is not always an option. Does AutoRecord mean it will record similar programs to what I'm trying to record? If so, isn't that something like Tivo Suggestions?

I'm sorely missing the Tivo Suggestions feature. I was set in my ways with Tivo so that I almost never watched live TV. There was always enough content in the suggestions that I could always find something interesting to watch. So the first thing I had to do with the HR20 was run around the program guide like a chicken with it's head cut off randomly telling it to record programs that I have watched at some point or another. I just want want to fill it up so I'm not forced to watch live TV.

For me, when prime-time shows are not "in season" there's very little, if anything, that I would program my Tivo to record. Now with the HR20, I'll have nothing to watch but live TV during those months. It just seems foreign to me that I have to do something like go to 7pm and tell it to get me the series of Everybody Loves Raymond, the syndicate stuff. Then while I'm at it, record it at 7:30 too because I'm not currently recording anything else at that time. lol

Ugh...this is going to be a hard adjustment, but I wanted local HD and two tuners.

[bigredexpy]

This is an official DirecTV document; directly from their HR20 page.

Thanks Alan for posting the link to the HR20 page.

Again -- Thanks Earl and others for providing so much information. The question of the day is... Are they listening?

Forget about the "Tivo" operations, every remote I've ever had, when I press "guide" it takes me to the guide, not some filtering menu.

[forum junkie]

Earl - on the question about the OTA tuners. When I ordered my HR20 I was told that they were not yet working with the guide or mapped to the channels but that the channels could be accessed manually. Any truth to this ?

[brewer4]

Accidentally hit the BACK button instead of guide, and guess what...The guide comes up by pushing that one button. Give it a shot.

Now thats a trick. Great find!! :) Thanks.

[litzdog911]

Earl - on the question about the OTA tuners. When I ordered my HR20 I was told that they were not yet working with the guide or mapped to the channels but that the channels could be accessed manually. Any truth to this ?


No, the OTA tuners are not active. You cannot even access that portion of the HR20 Setup Menus.

[houskamp]

Best Trick: Get a programable remote and program one page for live tv, and one for record. Then THROW OUT the original remote...:lol:

[moonman]

great one! so annoying! and I barely got any of my alerts anyway, so what was the point? i had 9 guys in FF and i only got 2 alerts all day, but i must have seen that popup a hundred times. you'd think it could at least go away after i did what it said.
---------------------
Channel 795 is the interactive set-up channel....pressing the RED button allows
you to set up your players..pressing the BLUE button sets up your prefs...
you should be able to state the pop-up times or even remove them if you wish..

[iceman2a]

---------------------
Channel 795 is the interactive set-up channel....pressing the RED button allows
you to set up your players..pressing the BLUE button sets up your prefs...
you should be able to state the pop-up times or even remove them if you wish..

I belive you can also turn alerts off from this channel

edit: in "player tracker" press blue button for prefrences to turn "alerts off"
my bad moonman, that's exactly what you said! sorry

[JLove336]

tag

[rtphokie]

Tip 1: Get to the Guide Quickly
Avoid the Category Sort screen by just pressing GUIDE twice.

I've got a tip for you D*, make it so it's an option so I only have to press it once! :rolleyes:

I'd like to see it as an option as well, but not just on/off. The options should be

press guide once for the category sort screen, twice to go directly to all currently set favorites list

and

press guide once to go directly to all currently set favorites list and twice for the category sort screen.

[gb33]

Tip 1: Get to the Guide Quickly
Avoid the Category Sort screen by just pressing GUIDE twice.

I've got a tip for you D*, make it so it's an option so I only have to press it once! :rolleyes:

I'm with this guy. Drives me nuts.

[cbearnm]

Is there any way to dim or even turn of the blue lights on the front of the receiver?

[PoitNarf]

Is there any way to dim or even turn of the blue lights on the front of the receiver?

There is....... but I totally forget how to do it. I believe it involves holding down a combination of the arrow keys on the HR20 front panel itself.

[houskamp]

hit the left and right buttons together... or read the manual :)

[litzdog911]

hit the left and right buttons together... or read the manual :)

Too bad it only dims the ring LEDs. The other LEDs seem very bright, too.

[cbearnm]

hit the left and right buttons together... or read the manual :)
Ouch, I'm a guy, I have no need for manuals. :rolleyes:
Seriously, I did look through it, but didn't notice. I'll have to look better in the future.
Thanks for the help.
As far as dimming the non-ring lights, I use some non-residue Scotch tape at work that will dim them suffiently. I was really hoping there was a way to knock them out completely, but some carefully cut electrical tape can do that.

[Earl Bonovich]

There is...

Just hold the left and right arrows down at the same time on the front pannel.
You can then lower the brightness to OFF

[jamieh1]

Im not a NFL ST or SF sub but I can go to 795 and pull up the Player tracker. Does this info only appear on the SUNDAY TICKET channels or on any channel Im watching???
And does it only work during the games?

[melduforx]

I've turned off the ring led three times now (using the L and R button trick) and everyday when I come home from work, they are back on.

Any idea why this is happening?

[PoitNarf]

I've turned off the ring led three times now (using the L and R button trick) and everyday when I come home from work, they are back on.

Any idea why this is happening?

It's not a bug, it's a feature!

[LSUMBA]

How do you do a full format of the HR20? One that will restore it to its factory conditions with no season passes & no recordings?

[litzdog911]

I've turned off the ring led three times now (using the L and R button trick) and everyday when I come home from work, they are back on.

Any idea why this is happening?

Mine have only come back on if the DVR rebooted.

[litzdog911]

There is...

Just hold the left and right arrows down at the same time on the front pannel.
You can then lower the brightness to OFF

Earl, this just applies to the ring LEDs, right? I haven't found any way to dim the other LEDs (other than put something over them).

[melduforx]

I love the dimming sequence:

Normal -> 100% Brightness
1 Press -> 99% Brightness
2 Presses -> 98% Brightness
3 Presses -> 97% Brightness
4 Presses -> OFF

[litzdog911]

I love the dimming sequence:

Normal -> 100% Brightness
1 Press -> 99% Brightness
2 Presses -> 98% Brightness
3 Presses -> 97% Brightness
4 Presses -> OFF


Maybe the engineers who designed this were forced to work in a very bright lab, or are nearly blind :)

[archie4oz]

I tried right arrow + active button combo to get to the "advanced menu" but the only option is for the phone (no LNB options like the R15). Does anybody know if the HR20 has an internal destacker? Of course I'm still on 0xac after Sunday's snafu, wondering if 0xcc enables those options...?

(One nice thing is you don't have to be in full-screen video mode to get to the advanced menu like on the R15)...

[NurseDave]

I love the dimming sequence:

Normal -> 100% Brightness
1 Press -> 99% Brightness
2 Presses -> 98% Brightness
3 Presses -> 97% Brightness
4 Presses -> OFF

HA! That's what I thought! They are pretty when they swirl around though.

[Earl Bonovich]

I tried right arrow + active button combo to get to the "advanced menu" but the only option is for the phone (no LNB options like the R15). Does anybody know if the HR20 has an internal destacker? Of course I'm still on 0xac after Sunday's snafu, wondering if 0xcc enables those options...?

(One nice thing is you don't have to be in full-screen video mode to get to the advanced menu like on the R15)...


You should be on 0xCC by now... Sunday' snafu was fixed on Sunday, and update process where re-enabled.

I waiting for confirmation of the destacker in the HR20.
My one contact thinks in there, I have another checking on it.

IMHO, the FTM is a destacking solution (to a degree), but not sure if they would have put the same destacker (that is in the R15) into the HR20.

Why? Most MDU (which was the target), don't use a stacking technique that carries all 5 LNBs, that is what the FTM is for.

[archie4oz]

Yeah, I reset my HR20 this morning and I noticed that it picked up 0xcc.

Our building doesn't have a 5LNB dish (yet... We're petitioning to get our installation updated), we're stuck with a basic round dish with a stacked signal. So my HR20 is basically gonna be used as a fast R15 with more storage until our installation is upgraded. And hopefully the OTA tuner will get enabled soon as well since we've got excellent ASTC reception in the building.

But I guess I may have to pick up an external destacker (Ugh!) for the time being...

[cwalton1]

Quick question for a new HR20 user transitioning from a Phillips DVR. Is there a way to watch two live shows at once? With my Phillips I could push down on the circle on the remote and it would flip to another channel. I looked through the manual but didn't see it right off the bat. Any tips would be greatly appreciated.

Craig

[dthoman]

This is a hot button topic. There is no dual buffer. Meaning only one live show at a time. You may still record two shows but there is only one live buffer.

See the post under buffer poll on the main portion of this forum.

[kaa1954]

Sorry if this has already been covered.

If I put 2 of these babies together....will I be able to control each one seperately with different remotes? (I can do this w/HR10's)

[litzdog911]

Sorry if this has already been covered.

If I put 2 of these babies together....will I be able to control each one seperately with different remotes? (I can do this w/HR10's)

Yes.

[kaa1954]

Yes.
Thanks.

[fdeitz]

How do you get to the beginning of a VOD that is nearing the end? Rewind takes too long.

Ugh...this is going to be a hard adjustment, but I wanted local HD and two tuners.

I also just got the HR20 after having Tivo for many years, and for the same reasons (local HD and 2 tuners). The thing that is bugging me the most is how to jump back to the beginning of a VOD, and then jumping forward (or backwards) at 15 minute or so intervals like what can be done with Tivo.

Also, and I think this is a bug - the manual record of a channel at a certain time on a daily basis doesn't seem to work. My wife watches a show that is on from 9-9:30 AM every day during the week, and I tried setting it up as a manual record and nothing shows up in the "To Do List" even though it shows up in the "Prioritizer" (and nothing else conflicts with that time anyway). I would do a "Series Link" but this show repeats at 1 PM. If I set it up as a Series Link I'll get both times as both the 9 AM and 1 PM shows are listed as "First Run Episodes" even though they are the same. Anyway, the manual record (which is what I used on Tivo to solve this problem) just doesn't seem to work here at all.

Anyway, it is a hard adjustment from Tivo - espeically not having any way to rapidly jump to a certain point in the recorded program. I also miss the fast forward autocorrect feature, but I know this is somthing that Tivo has a patent on.

[PoitNarf]

The thing that is bugging me the most is how to jump back to the beginning of a VOD, and then jumping forward (or backwards) at 15 minute or so intervals like what can be done with Tivo.

Hold down the FFWD, RWD, jump back, and advance buttons for this functionality.

[billt1111]

Hold down the FFWD, RWD, jump back, and advance buttons for this functionality.

I would like this functionality too but can't tell if you are serious or not. I would try it but I cannot figure out what buttons these are. I know what FFWD and RWD are. Which two are jump back and adv? Are those the two above the FFWD and RWD on the D* remote? I tried these four but nothing happened. Plus its not easy to hold down four buttons at once, obviously.

[litzdog911]

I would like this functionality too but can't tell if you are serious or not. I would try it but I cannot figure out what buttons these are. I know what FFWD and RWD are. Which two are jump back and adv? Are those the two above the FFWD and RWD on the D* remote? I tried these four but nothing happened. Plus its not easy to hold down four buttons at once, obviously.

He didn't mean to hold all four buttons at once. If everything's working properly, you should be able to ....
* To jump to end of recording, press and hold "Skip FWD" (button above FF)
* To jump to beginnig of recording, press and hold "Skip Back" (button above REW)
* To jump to next "tick" on the timeline, press and hold FF
* To jump to previous "tick", press and hold REW

[PoitNarf]

I would like this functionality too but can't tell if you are serious or not. I would try it but I cannot figure out what buttons these are. I know what FFWD and RWD are. Which two are jump back and adv? Are those the two above the FFWD and RWD on the D* remote? I tried these four but nothing happened. Plus its not easy to hold down four buttons at once, obviously.

Heh, all 4 at once? No, just individually. The one above fast forward is the "advance" button or "30 second slip" button. Hold this down for 3 seconds to goto the end of the recording or back to live tv if you're in the live buffer. Same for the jump back button, right above the rewind button; hold it down for 3 seconds to jump to the beginning of the recording or live buffer. Holding down either the fast forward or rewind buttons for 3 seconds will skip to the 15 minute tick marks in the recording. Btw, I am always quite serious :D

[PoitNarf]

He didn't mean to hold all four buttons at once. If everything's working properly, you should be able to ....
* To jump to end of recording, press and hold FF
* To jump to beginnig of recording, press and hold REW
* To jump to next "tick" on the timeline, press and hold "Skip FWD" (button above FF)
* To jump to previous "tick", press and hold "Skip Back" (button above REW)

You got your trickplay buttons mixed up :rolleyes:

[moonman]

Plus its not easy to hold down four buttons at once, obviously...
-------------------------------------------
Sounds like a Microsoft command to me!!

[litzdog911]

You got your trickplay buttons mixed up :rolleyes:

My bad. I fixed my original post. I have these commands programmed onto my MX500 remote, so I got mixed up on which keys did which command. Thanks for the correction.

[Soundteck]

Does anyone know how to stop and delete a recording without going to the end? I have tried to pause and then hit -- and nothing happens there.

[pcates]

Does anyone know how to stop and delete a recording without going to the end? I have tried to pause and then hit -- and nothing happens there.
Try using BACK and that should put you to where you can delete the recording. It will either be on the play screen with an option to delete or in MyVOD with that recording highlighted. You can hit Select and then delete from there.

[Bad Rex]

Hello everyone. Sure wish I would have known about this place before I decided to put HD in a second room in the house. Those fine folk who don't work for commissions basically told me I needed an HR20, without mentioning that I wouldn't be able to get OTA HD or that I needed a 5 LNB dish to get local HD via satellite. :eek2:

So I'm still waiting for local HD, but in the meantime I am slowly adapting to the differences of the HR20 and and my existing HR10-200.

I still have one issue. The HR10 had a one button (down arrow) way to switch tuners. I was in the habit of using this to switch back and forth between channels without losing the ability to rewind either channel if I wanted too. (Yes I am a DVR junkie/Tivoholic or whatever you want to call it.) But I can't seem to find the same functionality on the HR20. It seems like I have to explicitly start recording on both channels in order to switch back and forth with rewind capability. Anyone know an easier way to do this on the HR20?

FWIW, when I talked to Tier 2 DirecTV support as of Friday, they were still giving late 2006 as the ETA for OTA with a target of October.

[bonscott87]

Hello everyone. Sure wish I would have known about this place before I decided to put HD in a second room in the house. Those fine folk who don't work for commissions basically told me I needed an HR20, without mentioning that I wouldn't be able to get OTA HD or that I needed a 5 LNB dish to get local HD via satellite. :eek2:

So I'm still waiting for local HD, but in the meantime I am slowly adapting to the differences of the HR20 and and my existing HR10-200.

I still have one issue. The HR10 had a one button (down arrow) way to switch tuners. I was in the habit of using this to switch back and forth between channels without losing the ability to rewind either channel if I wanted too. (Yes I am a DVR junkie/Tivoholic or whatever you want to call it.) But I can't seem to find the same functionality on the HR20. It seems like I have to explicitly start recording on both channels in order to switch back and forth with rewind capability. Anyone know an easier way to do this on the HR20?

FWIW, when I talked to Tier 2 DirecTV support as of Friday, they were still giving late 2006 as the ETA for OTA with a target of October.

You can't. There are no dual buffers on the HR20 (yet anyway).

[WANDERER]

Thought I might share a little tip I found usefull (If you scour the manual you will fiind it too)

You can change the default recording options - for one touch recording or two touch season pass! (e.g. first run only / keep till I delete / at most 2 programs etc.)

Just hit the quick menu button while you have the recording options screen displayed. In the quick menu you will find the option to change default recording options.

One touch recording rocks!

[WANDERER]

Another cool trick - bookmarks

While watching a recorded program you can add index points called bookmarks.

To add a bookmark while the show is playing you press PAUSE-GREEN-PAUSE
(The second pause is optional and will simpy restart play)

The best way to access the bookmarks is by accessing the quick menu (during play) In the menu you will see "Bookmarks" Highlight and select that option the next screen will list all the bookmark points you have entered. You can then select which point you wish to travel to. Works like charm.

To delete the bookmarks in the quick menu listing, highlight the one you want deleted and press dash twice - -

(edit note - the bookmarks option will not show up in the quick menu until you have added a bookmark)

[hdtvfan0001]

Thanks Wanderer!

In addition to watching a whole lotta new HD stuff that I never would have seen (broadcast at 2-3 in the morning) - this HD DVR is actually getting to be fun with the new toys in it. Short Cuts, Bookmarks, and the like make this a valuable and enjoyable device in the Home Theater.

[Vinny]

Another cool trick - bookmarks

While watching a recorded program you can add index points called bookmarks.

To add a bookmark while the show is playing you press PAUSE-GREEN-PAUSE
(The second pause is optional and will simpy restart play)

The best way to access the bookmarks is by accessing the quick menu (during play) In the menu you will see "Bookmarks" Highlight and select that option the next screen will list all the bookmark points you have entered. You can then select which point you wish to travel to. Works like charm.

To delete the bookmarks in the quick menu listing, highlight the one you want deleted and press dash twice - -

(edit note - the bookmarks option will not show up in the quick menu until you have added a bookmark)

I have to thank you for actually reading the manual. This is an awesome find and I'm sure all of us will find a great use for it. Bookmarking a great play in a sporting event comes to mind immediately. Thanks again.

[RMSko]

You can change the default recording options - for one touch recording or two touch season pass! (e.g. first run only / keep till I delete / at most 2 programs etc.)

This is a great tip. When you change the default options, do the new default options apply for all types of recordings, e.g., title searches, channel searches, etc., or just one touch recordings (it would be great if it applied to all)?

Is there any way to turn the viewing window off when you're in the list or searching for something to record? While I generally like this option, there are times that I'm recording something and don't want to see what is happening while I'm in one of the other menus.

To me so far, the biggest negative with the HR20 is that it doesn't automatically rewind out of the FF mode. I know that this is due to a TiVo patent, but it is a problem. The workaround of hitting replay just hasn't been working for me; it doesn't rewind enough.

BTW - When I want to skip to the end of a recorded show, holding the advance button doesn't work. I need to tap that button and then tap it again and hold it the second time for 3 seconds. Then it goes to the end. I have the same problem with the replay button. Anyone else experiencing this?

[WANDERER]

This is a great tip. When you change the default options, do the new default options apply for all types of recordings, e.g., title searches, channel searches, etc., or just one touch recordings (it would be great if it applied to all)?

Is there any way to turn the viewing window off when you're in the list or searching for something to record? While I generally like this option, there are times that I'm recording something and don't want to see what is happening while I'm in one of the other menus.

To me so far, the biggest negative with the HR20 is that it doesn't automatically rewind out of the FF mode. I know that this is due to a TiVo patent, but it is a problem. The workaround of hitting replay just hasn't been working for me; it doesn't rewind enough.

BTW - When I want to skip to the end of a recorded show, holding the advance button doesn't work. I need to tap that button and then tap it again and hold it the second time for 3 seconds. Then it goes to the end. I have the same problem with the replay button. Anyone else experiencing this?

My skip to end/beginning bottons work great on the original remote that came with the HR20 - I use a harmony 880 though, and I have to hold the bottons down for 3 seconds, let up then tap again immediately to have the same effect. It works ok - I could probably get it to work properly if I took the time?!:rolleyes:

[Freshy]

Hi, I'm not very technical, and I just got the HR-20 installed two days ago, and it seems clunky. My main issue is when I'm changing from a HD channel to a SD channel, there is a long (few seconds at least) pause and what seems to be channel flipping. i noticed that it's the box going through all the different resolutions. Is there anyway to prevent that? Also, when I switch to a HD channel, the box defaults to the thrid resolution instead of the 1080. Can i fix that as well? It sucks being a novice.

Thanks in advance.

[hasan]

Hi, I'm not very technical, and I just got the HR-20 installed two days ago, and it seems clunky. My main issue is when I'm changing from a HD channel to a SD channel, there is a long (few seconds at least) pause and what seems to be channel flipping. i noticed that it's the box going through all the different resolutions. Is there anyway to prevent that? Also, when I switch to a HD channel, the box defaults to the thrid resolution instead of the 1080. Can i fix that as well? It sucks being a novice.

Thanks in advance.

Go into your setup and where you specify the output resolution, turn NATIVE OFF, and set it manually to 720P or 1080i, whichever is the NATIVE mode of your TV. I use 720P on my Samsung HL-R5667W ( its native display resolution is 720P).

Once you "fix" the output resolution to one value (by turning the option NATIVE off inside the HR20, you won't have the "klunkiness".

...hasan, N0AN

[politzer]

I'm experiencing the same clunkiness so I changed to Native "off", but now I'm noticing the type fonts on all menus and guide info is fuzzy, not sharp.

[hasan]

I'm experiencing the same clunkiness so I changed to Native "off", but now I'm noticing the type fonts on all menus and guide info is fuzzy, not sharp.

Try setting the output resolution properly. It should be set for either 720p or 1080i...one of the two will be better than the other.

For a test, go to the station (it must be HD) where you see "fuzzy" text, and manually change the resolution from the front panel to 720p then to 1080i....see which one looks best and then lock the HR20 into that resolution.

Now...if you are seeing "fuzzy" resolution on a standard def channel (SD), that is NORMAL....DirecTV SD is fuzzy, especially when compared to HD. Some channels are MUCH worse than others.

So you need to determine if the problem is the resolution of the HR 20 (how it's set), or just the result of poor program source.

It's also easy not to set the resolution properly. Look at the front panel, an LED will be light under the resolution that is currently being used. I'm betting you have your resolution set to 480 and not 720P or 1080i. Get that part right first and then fix your output resolution to what looks best (it will be either 720p or 1080i).


...hasan, N0AN

[bonscott87]

Try setting the output resolution properly. It should be set for either 720p or 1080i...one of the two will be better than the other.

For a test, go to the station (it must be HD) where you see "fuzzy" text, and manually change the resolution from the front panel to 720p then to 1080i....see which one looks best and then lock the HR20 into that resolution.

Now...if you are seeing "fuzzy" resolution on a standard def channel (SD), that is NORMAL....DirecTV SD is fuzzy, especially when compared to HD. Some channels are MUCH worse than others.

So you need to determine if the problem is the resolution of the HR 20 (how it's set), or just the result of poor program source.

It's also easy not to set the resolution properly. Look at the front panel, an LED will be light under the resolution that is currently being used. I'm betting you have your resolution set to 480 and not 720P or 1080i. Get that part right first and then fix your output resolution to what looks best (it will be either 720p or 1080i).


...hasan, N0AN

And also make sure your TV is actually in 720p or 1080i mode as well (whichever is it's native resolution). And match that up with the HR20. So if you have a 1080i HDTV then make sure it's set to that and then set to the HR20 to match at 1080i.

[matto]

it's a pity that something as simple as native resolution support couldn't even get implemented properly.

has anyone been keeping track of the number of features we lost going from the HR10 to the HR20?

[swconsult]

Earl, Do you know which bird the software updates come down from? I currently don't receive one of the birds due to it's ridiculously low elevation. It'll improve in the winter and I can't see that they'd add any other HD to it anyway. It just has three channels now. Beats the option of cable and it's a primary DISH bird so they would be worse.

[paulman182]

"it's a pity that something as simple as native resolution support couldn't even get implemented properly."

I think it works OK on mine. It takes about five seconds for it to change resolutions on my Panny TC-32LX60 thru HDMI, and does not cycle thru all of them.

However, my wife would not want even that much hesitation, so Native is "Off" on my HR20.

[matto]

"
I think it works OK on mine. It takes about five seconds for it to change resolutions on my Panny TC-32LX60 thru HDMI, and does not cycle thru all of them.

However, my wife would not want even that much hesitation, so Native is "Off" on my HR20.

five seconds is a long time. I don't think your wife is being very unreasonable.

[911medic]

It takes about five seconds for it to change resolutions...
However, my wife would not want even that much hesitation, so Native is "Off" on my HR20.Mine hated having to manually switch it, so the native is a blessing for us. It only pauses when there's actually a change, so switching between 480i channels, etc., is no big deal. The 3 seconds it takes to switch to the proper resolution when there is a change is worth it, as far as my wife's concerned.

[WANDERER]

HR20 Dual Buffer (JUST ADDED!!!)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Currently, technically a dual buffer does not exist.
However, for all practical purposes something better exists.

Try this once! It works great!!!

1.) Tune to channel A (live buffer of 90 min)

2.) Use quick guide to record desired channel B (unlimited buffer)

3.) Start playback of channel B recording

4.) Press prev. button - will autopause and take you INSTANTLY back to live tv channel A

5.) Press prev. button again and you will go back to recording INSTANTLY (channel B will auto play from where you had left off)

You can toggle the prev. button to repeat the tuner switch endlessly.


Even better than dual buffer!

[911medic]

HR20 Dual Buffer (JUST ADDED!!!)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Currently, technically a dual buffer does not exist.
However, for all practical purposes something better exists.

Try this once! It works great!!!

1.) Tune to channel A (live buffer of 90 min)

2.) Use quick guide to record desired channel B (unlimited buffer)

3.) Start playback of channel B recording

4.) Press prev. button - will autopause and take you INSTANTLY back to live tv channel A

5.) Press prev. button again and you will go back to recording INSTANTLY (channel B will auto play from where you had left off)

You can toggle the prev. button to repeat the tuner switch endlessly.


Even better than dual buffer!Cool! I'll have to try it. If it works, you may be a very popular person around here!!

[WANDERER]

Cool! I'll have to try it. If it works, you may be a very popular person around here!!

It sounds too good to be true - but it works - amazing! :D

[911medic]

Am I correct in assuming that if you want to change one of the channels, you have to change channel A (90 min buffer)? Or does any channel change screw up the whole system?

[WANDERER]

Am I correct in assuming that if you want to change one of the channels, you have to change channel A (90 min buffer)? Or does any channel change screw up the whole system?

You can change whatever you want - just remember that Prev. switches back over to the last thing you were doing. I'm almost certain after changing channel A you would simply have to use quick menu to resume playing channel b (from where it had left off) - from there you can use prev. toggle again!

[ssalerno]

Has anyone found a way to have your remote control the volume on you stereo receiver without having to switch the switch off of directv?

I can switch to avs1 which is where it's programed at but it's a pain to switch and adjust volume then switch back my old hr10-250 did it?

--steve

[VinceV]

Has anyone found a way to have your remote control the volume on you stereo receiver without having to switch the switch off of directv?

I can switch to avs1 which is where it's programed at but it's a pain to switch and adjust volume then switch back my old hr10-250 did it?

--steve

You can punch the volume buttons through so the volume buttons will ALWAYS control AV1. Go into the remote setup and it explains how to do this.

[jbstix]

HR20 Dual Buffer (JUST ADDED!!!)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Currently, technically a dual buffer does not exist.
However, for all practical purposes something better exists.

Try this once! It works great!!!

1.) Tune to channel A (live buffer of 90 min)

2.) Use quick guide to record desired channel B (unlimited buffer)

3.) Start playback of channel B recording

4.) Press prev. button - will autopause and take you INSTANTLY back to live tv channel A

5.) Press prev. button again and you will go back to recording INSTANTLY (channel B will auto play from where you had left off)

You can toggle the prev. button to repeat the tuner switch endlessly.


Even better than dual buffer!


Been doing this method for a few days since I got the new HR20 this week.
It works as an alternative to true dual live buffers, but IMHO not as good or better than the real thing.
Hopefully the real thing will be added in next months software update.
Nice find Wanderer - good luck to everyone.

jb
(2) HR20-700
(1) HR10-250 500Gb fully hacked/networked
(1) DSR6000 R.I.P unsub

[uteotw]

Hello everyone. Sure wish I would have known about this place before I decided to put HD in a second room in the house. Those fine folk who don't work for commissions basically told me I needed an HR20, without mentioning that I wouldn't be able to get OTA HD or that I needed a 5 LNB dish to get local HD via satellite. :eek2:

So I'm still waiting for local HD, but in the meantime I am slowly adapting to the differences of the HR20 and and my existing HR10-200.FWIW, when I talked to Tier 2 DirecTV support as of Friday, they were still giving late 2006 as the ETA for OTA with a target of October.

Um, I had not heard this either. I, too, am in the Chicago area (western burbs). Are you saying I won't get my locals in HD until "later"? ? ?

[PoitNarf]

Um, I had not heard this either. I, too, am in the Chicago area (western burbs). Are you saying I won't get my locals in HD until "later"? ? ?

You should be able to get your locals via D* now. Locals via an OTA antenna will come soon once a software update for the HR20 enables the OTA tuner.

[jbstix]

back on topic here a little...
something I discovered by accident last nite.
I had started recording Narnia, but apparently Starz had trouble with that showing, and they ran movie trailers for the first 35 mins. or so. So, I stopped the recording, then flipped back and Narnia had finally started so, I hit Record again, and it had the entire buffer from the beginning. So, apparently that buffer was still "around" in memory. Don't know if this is considered a tip or trick, but I found it interesting.
YMMV -

jb

[jelia]

its typical also on TIvo to have buffer stay in memory even days later if machine was off.
meaning i can watch saterday night live then leave it on pause or put machine in standby then turn it on the next day but RR the live tv so I acctualy see the buffer from the day before

[jheda]

HR20 Dual Buffer (JUST ADDED!!!)

---jj-----------------------------------------------------------------------------

Currently, technically a dual buffer does not exist.
However, for all practical purposes something better exists.

Try this once! It works great!!!

1.) Tune to channel A (live buffer of 90 min)

2.) Use quick guide to record desired channel B (unlimited buffer)

3.) Start playback of channel B recording

4.) Press prev. button - will autopause and take you INSTANTLY back to live tv channel A

5.) Press prev. button again and you will go back to recording INSTANTLY (channel B will auto play from where you had left off)

You can toggle the prev. button to repeat the tuner switch endlessly.


Even better than dual buffer!

help this novice please and tell me what quik giude is.....

[WANDERER]

help this novice please and tell me what quik giude is.....

quick guide (or maybe mini guide) can be accessed by hitting the blue button on your remote. It pulls up a one line guide at the bottom of your screen while you continue to watch your program.

[jheda]

quick guide (or maybe mini guide) can be accessed by hitting the blue button on your remote. It pulls up a one line guide at the bottom of your screen while you continue to watch your program.

thanks for the fast response........and the great find!!!!!! I am overall very happy with the HR20 albeit not user friendly like tivo but wouldnt give it up ........i can record in HD my Yanks going all the way!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[WANDERER]

thanks for the fast response........and the great find!!!!!! I am overall very happy with the HR20 albeit not user friendly like tivo but wouldnt give it up ........i can record in HD my Yanks going all the way!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Give it time! :) It's much better than TIVO ever was!

[jheda]

Give it time! :) It's much better than TIVO ever was!

I believe your right......and these great trick finds are leveling the playing field......am about to try your find...when you "Start playback of channel B recording" -must you go into list?

[bonscott87]

I use the quick guide a lot for Sunday Ticket. I have one favorite list for my normal viewing. And one list for NFL/Sunday Ticket. So on Sunday I change the guide to use the NFL favorite list. Then use the quick one line guide with the blue button to quickly switch from game to game. Very, very nice.

[jbstix]

its typical also on TIvo to have buffer stay in memory even days later if machine was off.
meaning i can watch saterday night live then leave it on pause or put machine in standby then turn it on the next day but RR the live tv so I acctualy see the buffer from the day before

What Tivo unit are you currently using? I remember this being possible years ago on my DSR6000 with older buggy software. But, haven't seen anything like you are describing in years.

Another quick tip, along the same lines of my earlier tip, I found by accident this morning.
I recorded a showing of Andy Griffith this AM, the recording had ended and I was watching a completly different channel. Then via the Guide selected the new episode of Andy Griffith on TVLand to record, and it recorded from the beginning - although it was about 10 minutes into the showing. So, it's apparent all the workings of the true live buffer are present, they just aren't active yet.
Anyway, like I said this is aloong the same lines of the other posts - maybe someone will find this useful. I did. :)

jb

[sandiegojoe]

HR20 Dual Buffer (JUST ADDED!!!)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Currently, technically a dual buffer does not exist.
5.) Press prev. button again and you will go back to recording INSTANTLY (channel B will auto play from where you had left off)

This is the only problem I'm having. If I hit pause on channel B, it does not stay paused (so if I watch channel A for 5 mins, channel b will be 5 mins ahead when I get back) switching while watching does not cause channel B to pause either.

Any ideas?

[jheda]

Originally Posted by WANDERER
HR20 Dual Buffer (JUST ADDED!!!)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Currently, technically a dual buffer does not exist.
5.) Press prev. button again and you will go back to recording INSTANTLY (channel B will auto play from where you had left off)




i have put on channel A, then put quick guide on using blue and choose channel B I then record channel B . I go to list and play channel B. Previous channel brings me to A live (90 minute buffer intact, then previous channel wonderfully brings me to B autopaused where i last left it, but toggle again and A is in live and not autopaused where i last played (although buffer intact).Yes autopuase on B is working!!! but i cant pause A and it always come back live when switching back from (the recording) B

what step am i doing incorrectly? Or this is as close as dual buffering as possible? .

thanks!!!!

[WANDERER]

This is the only problem I'm having. If I hit pause on channel B, it does not stay paused (so if I watch channel A for 5 mins, channel b will be 5 mins ahead when I get back) switching while watching does not cause channel B to pause either.

Any ideas?

yeah - don't hit pause - just hit prev. it will autopause for you. You may be undoing the autopause if you hit pause first? What software version are you running? Again hit prev button not the back button

[WANDERER]

Originally Posted by WANDERER
HR20 Dual Buffer (JUST ADDED!!!)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Currently, technically a dual buffer does not exist.
5.) Press prev. button again and you will go back to recording INSTANTLY (channel B will auto play from where you had left off)




i have put on channel A, then put quick guide on using blue and choose channel B I then record channel B . I go to list and play channel B. Previous channel brings me to A live (90 minute buffer intact, then previous channel wonderfully brings me to B autopaused where i last left it, but toggle again and A is in live and not autopaused where i last played (although buffer intact).Yes autopuase on B is working!!! but i cant pause A and it always come back live when switching back from (the recording) B

what step am i doing incorrectly? Or this is as close as dual buffering as possible? .

thanks!!!!


as close as possible, unless you setup a quick macro that autopauses live tv on a before it switches over. Ya know - the tivo dual buffer did not autopause anythingl :) Atleast on my old series 1

[Mixer]

I am confused here. If I have Native off and I am watching say MTV and it is in 480i or let's say even 480p and at 9:00 I change the channel to Lost on ABC and it is in 1080i, it won't default to 1080i? I would have to have Native On for it to pickup on the fact that I switched between two channels that had different resolutions?

Mine hated having to manually switch it, so the native is a blessing for us. It only pauses when there's actually a change, so switching between 480i channels, etc., is no big deal. The 3 seconds it takes to switch to the proper resolution when there is a change is worth it, as far as my wife's concerned.

[Phil T]

I just got my HR20 today. I can't seem to make the "channels I receive" guide work. Do I have to set it up manually like the HR10?

Thanks

[matto]

I just got my HR20 today. I can't seem to make the "channels I receive" guide work. Do I have to set it up manually like the HR10?


yep. they should just change the name of the list to 'Every Freakin Channel' and be done with it.

[Frodtab]

I just got my HR20 today. I can't seem to make the "channels I receive" guide work. Do I have to set it up manually like the HR10?

Thanks

The "Channels I Receive" functionality does not work yet.

[911medic]

I am confused here. If I have Native off and I am watching say MTV and it is in 480i or let's say even 480p and at 9:00 I change the channel to Lost on ABC and it is in 1080i, it won't default to 1080i? I would have to have Native On for it to pickup on the fact that I switched between two channels that had different resolutions?That is correct. With Native off, it won't switch automatically (similar to the HR10, if you had one of those). You'll have to know what format the particular station is broadcasting in, and manually switch it yourself. With Native on, it detects it automatically, but the trade-off is that currently there is a delay as it figures out which resolution to switch to.

[Mixer]

Thanks for clearing that up. It sounds to me like Native on will be the way to go for me. However I do have another question now. If I decide in the future to turn it off and then I setup series links or just plain old recordings will it matter. Does it record and then when you playback you choose the resolution? Does that make sense?

That is correct. With Native off, it won't switch automatically (similar to the HR10, if you had one of those). You'll have to know what format the particular station is broadcasting in, and manually switch it yourself. With Native on, it detects it automatically, but the trade-off is that currently there is a delay as it figures out which resolution to switch to.

[PoitNarf]

Thanks for clearing that up. It sounds to me like Native on will be the way to go for me. However I do have another question now. If I decide in the future to turn it off and then I setup series links or just plain old recordings will it matter. Does it record and then when you playback you choose the resolution? Does that make sense?

The HR20 records the raw sat stream for that channel, so it stores all information about the show regardless of the settings on your HR20. Native mode only effects what is currently being displayed by the HR20 and nothing else; even if you record a show you're currently watching in HD and set the output to 480p it is still recording the show in it's HD resolution.

[bds42]

Just so that I'm undestanding this... I'm still left with the 'channel B' shows that I have to go and manually delete out of the list now, right?

as close as possible, unless you setup a quick macro that autopauses live tv on a before it switches over. Ya know - the tivo dual buffer did not autopause anythingl :) Atleast on my old series 1

[billt1111]

That is correct. With Native off, it won't switch automatically (similar to the HR10, if you had one of those). You'll have to know what format the particular station is broadcasting in, and manually switch it yourself. With Native on, it detects it automatically, but the trade-off is that currently there is a delay as it figures out which resolution to switch to.

I agree with 911. However on my Panny HD Plasma I do NOT want it to switch back and forth between 720p and 1080i native programming for two reasons. First it takes 3 to 5 seconds. This time lag is not just due to the HR20. If you are channel surfing that time lag is intolerable. Second, my Panny plasma always looks better with 1080i, even when the programming is native in 720p. You might want to carefully compare whether the time lag is worth the irritation on your particular setup.

[jcwest]

I am confused here. If I have Native off and I am watching say MTV and it is in 480i or let's say even 480p and at 9:00 I change the channel to Lost on ABC and it is in 1080i, it won't default to 1080i? I would have to have Native On for it to pickup on the fact that I switched between two channels that had different resolutions?

I have my HR20 set to native=off, 1080i=letter box. When I tune to CNN it displays 4:3, when I tune to HDNet it displays in 16:9. I'm connected VIA component.

J C

[911medic]

You might want to carefully compare whether the time lag is worth the irritation on your particular setup.Absolutely. And, Mixer, you can also pick which resolutions the HR20 will display when in Native or manual mode. For instance, I find no use whatsoever for 420p, so I have it "unchecked" in the HR20 menu, even though my TV supports it.

[chicagojim]

I have my HR20 set to native=off, 1080i=letter box. When I tune to CNN it displays 4:3, when I tune to HDNet it displays in 16:9. I'm connected VIA component.

J C

So, setting native off and picking 1080i as the only supported resolution will allow for switching to 1080i, 720p or 480 based upon the capabilities of your TV, right? Not to be dense here, but the TV will automatically upscale the lower resolutions and take the 1080i signal direct without changing it, right?

I'm using a 1080P tv (Sony KDS60-A2000) and have been having a heck of a time getting this worked out since my replcement box showed up. (The good news is, my replacement box actually works! :grin: )

[matto]

So, setting native off and picking 1080i as the only supported resolution will allow for switching to 1080i, 720p or 480 based upon the capabilities of your TV, right? Not to be dense here, but the TV will automatically upscale the lower resolutions and take the 1080i signal direct without changing it, right?

I'm using a 1080P tv (Sony KDS60-A2000) and have been having a heck of a time getting this worked out since my replcement box showed up. (The good news is, my replacement box actually works! :grin: )

no. setting native to off and picking only 1080i will cause the HR20 to upscale all content to 1080i before outputting it to the tv.

[bonscott87]

So, setting native off and picking 1080i as the only supported resolution will allow for switching to 1080i, 720p or 480 based upon the capabilities of your TV, right? Not to be dense here, but the TV will automatically upscale the lower resolutions and take the 1080i signal direct without changing it, right?

I'm using a 1080P tv (Sony KDS60-A2000) and have been having a heck of a time getting this worked out since my replcement box showed up. (The good news is, my replacement box actually works! :grin: )

No. Native mode off means it will upconvert all signals to the resolution you specify. So if you tell it that 1080i is your supported format it will send *everything* as 1080i. If it's 480i station then it will upconvert it to 1080i and send it to the TV in the 16x9 frame. You can switch between format modes (crop, stretch, letterbox) on the HR20 with the remote. Most HDTV's can't do much in the way of stretching and such with a 1080i signal.

If you leave Native mode on, it will autoswitch to the closest format you have told the HR20 your TV supports, say 480i and 1080i. Then HD programs will come across in 1080i and SD programs in 480i. When getting a 480i signal most HDTV's can then use it's own scaler and stretch formats which you can switch on your TV. Downside right now to native mode is the time it takes to change formats as it cycles around trying to find one that works.

The other option is to leave Native mode off. Tell the HR20 your TV supports 480i and 1080i (or whatever). If you leave it on 1080i it will do the same as the first paragraph above and upconvert everything. But if on an SD show you don't like what it's doing you can change the format using the remote to 480i and then let your TV do it's magic. This is actually what I do and is a decent workaround until Native format switching becomes a bit better.

[ezahn]

I just received my HR20 and have seen only a few of the minor bugs so far.

Couple of questions for you experts:
1) It seems that the bottom line of the Guide is cut off on the bottom of the screen. I'm in 1080i mode and tried the 480p with the same result. I don't see any screen adjustment on the 56" Mitsubishi HDTV. Note: I don't have HDMI intf.

2)Maybe I was misinformed, but I had heard that this box was suppose to support picture-in-picture like the old Ultimate TV box. Anyone have any news with regards to this. (i.e.: display 2 pics at the same time exclusive of the TV)

[paulman182]

Don't know about issue 1, but no, it does not have PIP.

It does support PIG (Picture In Guide,) but I'm sure you know that.

[bonscott87]

I just received my HR20 and have seen only a few of the minor bugs so far.

Couple of questions for you experts:
1) It seems that the bottom line of the Guide is cut off on the bottom of the screen. I'm in 1080i mode and tried the 480p with the same result. I don't see any screen adjustment on the 56" Mitsubishi HDTV. Note: I don't have HDMI intf.


1) Your HDTV's overscan is probably set too much. Usually the only way to configure is going into the service menu. Record HDNet's screen test that usually runs Tuesday mornings and it will help you figure out if this is it.

[ezahn]

Scott - I assume the service menu you are referring to is not on the box but rather the TV... correct?

Additional item for the experts. This one really bothers me! On the HR10-250, both tuners were always capturing/recording what was on each one, thus you could go back/forth between the tuners and rewind to see what you missed while watching the other channel. A really good feature for when you're trying to watch 2 shows (ie: sporting events) at the same time. It appears that there is no way to do this with the HR20. PLEASE TELL ME I AM WRONG!

[ezahn]

Scott - I just read your post #96 regarding Sunday Ticket NFL... This was why I asked the previous question on switching between tuners. Looks like you've figured it out, but even though I'm a propeller head w/eng. degree, it's not obvious.... Just got the box this afternoon. I understand the blue button for mini-guide, but not sure how that relates to flipping between tuners. Please help.
Thanks, Elliot

[Twosted]

Scott - I just read your post #96 regarding Sunday Ticket NFL... This was why I asked the previous question on switching between tuners. Looks like you've figured it out, but even though I'm a propeller head w/eng. degree, it's not obvious.... Just got the box this afternoon. I understand the blue button for mini-guide, but not sure how that relates to flipping between tuners. Please help.
Thanks, Elliot

You are reffering to dual buffers which the HR20 doesn't have. They may add it in the future. There is no way to switch between tuners.

[bonscott87]

Scott - I just read your post #96 regarding Sunday Ticket NFL... This was why I asked the previous question on switching between tuners. Looks like you've figured it out, but even though I'm a propeller head w/eng. degree, it's not obvious.... Just got the box this afternoon. I understand the blue button for mini-guide, but not sure how that relates to flipping between tuners. Please help.
Thanks, Elliot

RE: Overscan. Yes, this is a function of your TV, nothing to do with the HR20. Some TV's from the factory have terrible overscan. Everyone should get the Avia calibration DVD if they have an HDTV and it will help you to calibrate and identify such problems.

No, you cannot "swap" tuners on the HR20. There are no dual buffers at this time. While I know that's a popular feature for many that use Sunday Ticket I've only had a stand alone HD box the past 4 years and so got used to not having dual buffers during HD Sunday Ticket so I don't miss it at all. But it's on DirecTV's list of things to look at adding so there is always hope.

[jdsolomon]

Hi,

One annoyance I've had is that the HR20 deems you to be at the "end" of a program you're watching if you "catch up" to the live portion, even if the recording and hence the playback is not at the actual end of the recording. The downside of it so doing is that when you return to that program and "play" it, the HR20 jumps to the very beginning, not where you finished watching previously.

To make this concrete, let's say you're recording a baseball game from 1pm to 4pm. At 1:30pm you begin watching it from the ToDo list and you catch up by 2:15pm, say, because you have DVR-induced a.d.d. like I do. :) Now you turn the HR20 off and go do something else, and come back at 3:30pm to watch the rest of the game. A TiVo or a UTV would "start" you at the 2:15pm point, where you had left off previously, but the HR20 thinks you've "finished" watching (cuz you did catch up to what, at the time, was the "end" of the recording at 2:15pm), and so restarts you at the very beginning.

This left me highly annoyed the first couple of times it happened, especially cuz I had not yet read this forum to find a way to quickly jump forward by "index marks" or whatever TiVo calls them and whatever the HR20 calls them. But I worked around it by jumping back to "a few seconds prior to Live", and then switching the HR20 off. Of course, this really isn't a big deal with the skip-by-tick-mark feature, but I think it's a bug to restart at the beginning in such a scenario. The two work-arounds are, as I mentioned, to leave off just prior to live, or to use the quick skips to get back to where you were. I suppose another workaround is to pause the thing and not turn it off. :)

Cheers,
JS

[bonscott87]

Hi,

One annoyance I've had is that the HR20 deems you to be at the "end" of a program you're watching if you "catch up" to the live portion, even if the recording and hence the playback is not at the actual end of the recording. The downside of it so doing is that when you return to that program and "play" it, the HR20 jumps to the very beginning, not where you finished watching previously.

To make this concrete, let's say you're recording a baseball game from 1pm to 4pm. At 1:30pm you begin watching it from the ToDo list and you catch up by 2:15pm, say, because you have DVR-induced a.d.d. like I do. :) Now you turn the HR20 off and go do something else, and come back at 3:30pm to watch the rest of the game. A TiVo or a UTV would "start" you at the 2:15pm point, where you had left off previously, but the HR20 thinks you've "finished" watching (cuz you did catch up to what, at the time, was the "end" of the recording at 2:15pm), and so restarts you at the very beginning.

This left me highly annoyed the first couple of times it happened, especially cuz I had not yet read this forum to find a way to quickly jump forward by "index marks" or whatever TiVo calls them and whatever the HR20 calls them. But I worked around it by jumping back to "a few seconds prior to Live", and then switching the HR20 off. Of course, this really isn't a big deal with the skip-by-tick-mark feature, but I think it's a bug to restart at the beginning in such a scenario. The two work-arounds are, as I mentioned, to leave off just prior to live, or to use the quick skips to get back to where you were. I suppose another workaround is to pause the thing and not turn it off. :)

Cheers,
JS

Hit "Stop" when you are done watching. This will stop the playing of the recording and dump you back to MyVOD. Then the next time you come to it you will start from your stop spot. You could also hit pause if you were to come back a little later before the recording was completed. Note that when you go back to MyVOD that the game will probably be live up in the upper corner so don't look at the score!

Optional is to set up your own bookmark at the spot you want to come back to. The process is in the manual, I don't know it off the top of my head. I think it's pause-green. Anyway, then if you start the program from the beginning you can use the skip to tick to go to your bookmark and start from that spot.

[jdsolomon]

Hit "Stop" when you are done watching. This will stop the playing of the recording and dump you back to MyVOD. Then the next time you come to it you will start from your stop spot. You could also hit pause if you were to come back a little later before the recording was completed. Note that when you go back to MyVOD that the game will probably be live up in the upper corner so don't look at the score!

Thanks Scott, for the tip. But your last statement raises a question: is there anyway to prevent a picture-in-* window? Let's say you're recording two sporting events and want to start watching one or both before they're finished. You turn on the HR20, and, bam!, there's one of the games on your screen, even after you switch to MyVOD. A premature score-u-lation will most certainly result. After originally not liking it, I came to like the TiVo's lack of any "live" display unless you specifically selected it.

JS

[Bad Rex]

Hi,

The two work-arounds are, as I mentioned, to leave off just prior to live, or to use the quick skips to get back to where you were. I suppose another workaround is to pause the thing and not turn it off. :)

Cheers,
JS

I haven't used the feature myself but I think the HD20 lets you create a bookmark at any point in the recording. If it's implemented, I would guess you should be able to set a bookmark before you turn off the box, then when you turn it back on you should be able to jump directly to the bookmark. Does anyone know if this works?

[bonscott87]

Thanks Scott, for the tip. But your last statement raises a question: is there anyway to prevent a picture-in-* window? Let's say you're recording two sporting events and want to start watching one or both before they're finished. You turn on the HR20, and, bam!, there's one of the games on your screen, even after you switch to MyVOD. A premature score-u-lation will most certainly result. After originally not liking it, I came to like the TiVo's lack of any "live" display unless you specifically selected it.

JS

There is no way to disable the picture in guide feature. What I used to do with my Tivo if I knew it was recording a game and I might see or hear the score I'd hit the Tivo button first before turning the TV on so it would be at the menu when I started it up.

Tonight I'll be putting the HR20 through it's paces with a delayed behind about 45 minutes hockey game so I'll figure out the best way. Right now I'd say mute the sound, hit list to get to MyVOD and just don't look up at the picutre in guide. Select the game and start playing. Un mute sound. That should protect me from scores. :)

[RMSko]

There is no way to disable the picture in guide feature. What I used to do with my Tivo if I knew it was recording a game and I might see or hear the score I'd hit the Tivo button first before turning the TV on so it would be at the menu when I started it up.

Tonight I'll be putting the HR20 through it's paces with a delayed behind about 45 minutes hockey game so I'll figure out the best way. Right now I'd say mute the sound, hit list to get to MyVOD and just don't look up at the picutre in guide. Select the game and start playing. Un mute sound. That should protect me from scores. :)
I think another option would be to hit pause.

[mjsterz]

First post, so please be gentle :) .

I've had my HR20 for a couple of weeks and I have been pretty happy with it overall. The UI took some getting used to after using TiVo for so long, but I think I'm getting used to it.

A couple of questions\problems:

1) I've had one black screen recording so far. It wouldn't FF, RW, or 30 second skip. Just a black screen and it would not respond. I finally had to delete the recording. From what I've read this is fairly common and hopefully a fix will be forthcoming.

2) When doing a search, does anyone know of a way to filter by the current Favorites list? My current Favorites list only has the HD locals. I've filtered out the SD locals. The problem is that when I go to do a search for a show, it lists both the show on the HD local and on the SD local. I have to play a guessing game as to which instance of the show to select (and, of course, I always seem to guess wrong on the first try :) ).

3) I've had some problems trying to manually re-record a repeat of a show that I have a Series Link for. For example, I recorded Friday Night Lights on Tuesday night via my Series Link (set to First Run Only). The recording was bad (see #1 above), but thankfully NBC was replaying the same episode on Wednesday night. So I went in through My VOD to view upcoming episodes, and tried to click Record, but it wouldn't do anything. As a workaround, I went through the guide, found the episode, and clicked the (R) button and it recorded fine.

4) I've had a lot of audio drops and pixellation on my HD locals (Chicago area). It's especially bad on my local CBS station (channel 2). I assume it's the station or DTV and not the receiver/dish. Anybody else in the Chicago area having these same problems or is it in fact my receiver/dish? No problems on any other HD or SD channels.

5) My DTV remote seems super-sensitive. For example, when I go to do a search and I type in "G", it will show that I typed in "GG" (like I pressed it twice, which I did not). I also find myself skipping through screens because my remote thinks I'm pressing buttons multiple times. Is anyone else having this problem with the DTV universal remote? I figure either it's sensitive for everybody, it's just my remote, or it's just a matter of me getting used to a new remote.

Thanks in advance for any info anyone can provide on any of the above!

Regards,
MJ

EDIT: My HR20 video is connected via component to my Marantz receiver, which is connected via component to my Panasonic plasma TV. The audio is connected from my HR20 to my receiver via optical, which is connected to my TV via optical.

[Earl Bonovich]

For #1... a fix is forthcoming
For #2... No, that can't be done right now.
For #3... Yes, that is also a known bug... and what you did is the work around
For #4... I have had very very few audio drop outs or pixellazation... what kind of signal strength are you seing
For #5... There are others that have had the problem... I haven't seen a work around, try changing the batteries... it is possible the OEM ones are dying and thus causing the remote to do odd things.

[mjsterz]

For #1... a fix is forthcoming
For #2... No, that can't be done right now.
For #3... Yes, that is also a known bug... and what you did is the work around
For #4... I have had very very few audio drop outs or pixellazation... what kind of signal strength are you seing
For #5... There are others that have had the problem... I haven't seen a work around, try changing the batteries... it is possible the OEM ones are dying and thus causing the remote to do odd things.

Thanks, Earl, for the prompt reply.

RE #4: I have not checked, but I will. Any tips on how to do this? I know with my DTV TiVo units I could tune to a local channel, then go to test signal strength and it would automatically be on the transponder that carried my locals (#18). Does the HR20 have similar functionality? I guess what I'm asking is if there is a way to check the signal strength for just my HD locals? I'm sorry I'm at work right now so I can't take a look for myself.

RE #5: Typically when remote batteries have started to die on my in the past, I've seen the OPPOSITE happen (where you have to hold + press on a button for a long time for the remote to respond). I will definitely try the batteries, though.

Thanks again!

[Wildcat_1]

I must be doing something wrong as both my tuners continue to play. HELP !!!

HR20 Dual Buffer (JUST ADDED!!!)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Currently, technically a dual buffer does not exist.
However, for all practical purposes something better exists.

Try this once! It works great!!!

1.) Tune to channel A (live buffer of 90 min)

2.) Use quick guide to record desired channel B (unlimited buffer)

3.) Start playback of channel B recording

4.) Press prev. button - will autopause and take you INSTANTLY back to live tv channel A

5.) Press prev. button again and you will go back to recording INSTANTLY (channel B will auto play from where you had left off)

You can toggle the prev. button to repeat the tuner switch endlessly.


Even better than dual buffer!

[cvreeken]

Does anyone know how to delete a series link or change options when there are no upcoming programs scheduled? For example, I have "Smith" listed in the Prioritizer, but this show is now cancelled and I want to get rid of it. When I select it in the Prioritizer screen, it does nothing and there is no way to delete it that I can find.

Secondly, if the first airing of a show is not on the To Do list because of a conflict, the second airing does not seem to want to record unless I manually schedule it. Does the option need to be set to "Both" (first run and reruns) in order for this to happen? Shouldn't it automatically record the second airing? Again, the Prioritizer shows no upcoming programs scheduled, so I can't alter the options from the Prioritizer screen. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.

[bonscott87]

Dash Dash deletes things from the prioritizer or MyVOD.

[hdtvfan0001]

Dash Dash deletes things from the prioritizer or MyVOD.
Someone needs to start a sticky thread of nothing but remote keycodes that are not in the manual....I've made a short list, but keep learning more reading here.

I'm sure that this was the intend here, but things have gone awry.

If there was a sticky thread or single updated post (no other comments or posts other than keycodes), we could print out and learn/refererence (rather than piecemeal hunt them down). I found a few in other threads from here as well - it would be nice to have them in once place.

Everyone's tips are quite helpful! :)

[vonzoog]

Ditto

[jmv1210]

Need some help here:

I just had the H-20 installed today. From what I can tell there is no way to have your favorite sporting event and team recorded every time they place, unless you manually search and find it and tell Hr-20 to record this showing?

If there is an alternative can someone post that here?


It’s hard for me to believe that with Tivo you could do this by keyword search etc and essentially get a season pass to your favorite teams games, but Direct Tv “overlooked” this option 9if I am right).


Any Hr-20 Sport fans out there, that can shed some light on this topic for me?
Thanks,
Joe

[brittu]

Ok, so it seems to me like DTV figured out a way to make advertisers happy. 30 second skip is more like "Cliff Notes for Commericals". Yuk, I have to watch the commercials now while waiting for skip to get me where I want to go, back to my danged show. Any way to make skip go faster or otherwise help me to actually skip the commericals?

Thanks!
Britt

[bonscott87]

It’s hard for me to believe that with Tivo you could do this by keyword search etc and essentially get a season pass to your favorite teams games, but Direct Tv “overlooked” this option 9if I am right).


Any Hr-20 Sport fans out there, that can shed some light on this topic for me?
Thanks,
Joe

Tivo isn't any better, at least for me and many people. Few people can get it to record a sports team right, mainly because of multiple airings at various times and on various channels (some of which might be blacked out). I always used a Wishlist as a "canned search" and manually chose to record the games I wanted on the channels I wanted. Did this every week or so. I do the same now on the HR20 and it's actually much faster because of the one touch record. In less then a minute last night I setup pre-game and game recordings for the Red Wings over the next 2 weeks. I'll do that again in 2 weeks. No biggy.

[bonscott87]

Ok, so it seems to me like DTV figured out a way to make advertisers happy. 30 second skip is more like "Cliff Notes for Commericals". Yuk, I have to watch the commercials now while waiting for skip to get me where I want to go, back to my danged show. Any way to make skip go faster or otherwise help me to actually skip the commericals?

Thanks!
Britt

Fast forward triple time and hit replay a couple times when you want to start playing again.

[axiom]

I do the same now on the HR20 and it's actually much faster because of the one touch record. In less then a minute last night I setup pre-game and game recordings for the Red Wings over the next 2 weeks. I'll do that again in 2 weeks. No biggy.

I do the same thing. Whenever I tried to do it automatically on the DirecTivo, I'd end up recording a blacked out channel, or the wrong telecast (opponents announcers). The only way it works is to do the search and then manually filter which things actually record, and then redo it every couple of weeks. So far, it looks like it will work the same way on the HR20. I set up an autorecord of "Dallas Stars", sports, hockey, first run, then will double check the list every week to make sure the correct channels are the ones that record.

[Scribo-san]

Someone needs to start a sticky thread of nothing but remote keycodes that are not in the manual....I've made a short list, but keep learning more reading here.

I'm sure that this was the intend here, but things have gone awry.

<snip>

Everyone's tips are quite helpful! :)

I've just printed out this thread, and I'm willing to put together a cheat sheet. I believe there's a Private Message feature on this forum - if you know of remote tricks or HR20 under-documented fatures, PM them to me and I'll compile-em.

That list can be the starting point for a sticky "Keycodes only" thread ....

Scribo-san

[Andrew_J_M]

If I set up an autorecord from search - for instance Person John Wayne, will it continue to record every program with John Wayne in it ad infinitum? If so, how do I stop it?

[mikepatt]

Hi,

Just got my HR20 over the weekend and was browsing the tips, and didn't see an answer to my first question:

Can you start a recording 1 minute early and finish it 1 minute late, or even later, to not miss anything?

Thanks!
Mike

[hdtvfan0001]

Hi,

Just got my HR20 over the weekend and was browsing the tips, and didn't see an answer to my first question:

Can you start a recording 1 minute early and finish it 1 minute late, or even later, to not miss anything?

Thanks!
Mike
You can set the record option (manual option on the setup menu), so that you can get the start end times down to the minute if you'd like to do so.

[hdtvfan0001]

I've just printed out this thread, and I'm willing to put together a cheat sheet. I believe there's a Private Message feature on this forum - if you know of remote tricks or HR20 under-documented fatures, PM them to me and I'll compile-em.

That list can be the starting point for a sticky "Keycodes only" thread ....

Scribo-san
That would be awfully nice of you....

I've seen it where a sticky thread is created, a long list of such things listed in the first post, and that post is amended as new items are "exposed". That's a fair amount of work though, and someone needs to "own" the original post to make the updates. :)

Someone did this for the H20 receiver, and it was great to have the latest all in the first post. I had just suggested we consider the same concept for the H20 DVR.

[mikepatt]

You can set the record option (manual option on the setup menu), so that you can get the start end times down to the minute if you'd like to do so.

That's too bad. I guess I am used to the Tivo version, which easily lets you add on additional time at the end. This is especially great for sporting events that always seem to run longer than their alloted time! Directv allows for the extra time on their Sunday Ticket, but the locals and ESPN, et al never do.

Also, I recorded Cold Case last night as my first show, and noticed it cut off a few seconds of the intro, so it is nice to start a minute early, just in case.

Thanks for the reply.
Mike

[bonscott87]

That's too bad. I guess I am used to the Tivo version, which easily lets you add on additional time at the end. This is especially great for sporting events that always seem to run longer than their alloted time! Directv allows for the extra time on their Sunday Ticket, but the locals and ESPN, et al never do.

Also, I recorded Cold Case last night as my first show, and noticed it cut off a few seconds of the intro, so it is nice to start a minute early, just in case.

Thanks for the reply.
Mike

I do this all the time. You setup padding in a recording just like a Tivo. Like for hockey games I always add an hour. Things on Sci-Fi like BSG I add an extra 2 minutes at the end of the series link. You can also pre-pad a minute or two as well.

[mikepatt]

I do this all the time. You setup padding in a recording just like a Tivo. Like for hockey games I always add an hour. Things on Sci-Fi like BSG I add an extra 2 minutes at the end of the series link. You can also pre-pad a minute or two as well.

Scott,

How do you do this? I see the series icon in the guide and it is listed in the to do list, but how do you pad at the end of the series link? - NEVERMIND, I figured it out.

Thanks!

[bonscott87]

Scott,

How do you do this? I see the series icon in the guide and it is listed in the to do list, but how do you pad at the end of the series link? - NEVERMIND, I figured it out.

Thanks!

For those that want to know, you select your program in the prioritizer (for series link) or the To Do list and choose the record option. You'll then have options for padding. There will also be a tab for the series link if you wish to pad for the whole series and not just that particular episode.

[ExUltimateTV]

With Native on, it detects it automatically, but the trade-off is that currently there is a delay as it figures out which resolution to switch to.
I got my unit last week, and set it up to run in Native mode since I wanted the best picture possible. My TV is a Pioneer Elite Plasma, which purportedly has great video scaling. I'm running 0xD8, btw. I've found that doing the 30 sec slip and 6 sec replay thing sometimes made the HR20 forget which resolution it was outputting, forcing my TV to relock. Even worse, the HR20 would sometimes drop audio when resuming playing (which would come back if I paused again and then hit Play).

So, here's the tip: Switch to Native Off, 1080i mode. Now the HR20 will stay at 1080i even when fast forwarding or replaying. The audio hasn't dropped out on me yet in this mode. It does mean I'm scaling video up in the HR20 instead of the TV (which is actually now internally scaling down to 768p), and I can tell the difference on SD material (it is slight), but HD material looks the same or even better. Overall, it's worth the trade-off, IMO.

[wakajawaka]

<snip>

So, here's the tip: Switch to Native Off, 1080i mode. Now the HR20 will stay at 1080i even when fast forwarding or replaying. The audio hasn't dropped out on me yet in this mode. It does mean I'm scaling video up in the HR20 instead of the TV (which is actually now internally scaling down to 768p), and I can tell the difference on SD material (it is slight), but HD material looks the same or even better. Overall, it's worth the trade-off, IMO.

This is exactly what I do except I use 720p to match my TV. To be honest I don't notice much difference in PQ either, not enough anyway to endure the delay.

[Milominderbinder2]

Earl,
Could we put all of the tips and tricks scattered through these dozens of posts into one document? Maybe a DBSTalk User Tips Summary? I could convert it to a PDF for you. As moderator, you know which tips are good and some are not so good. Some posts are off-topic. Could we have a distilled down page?

Maybe it would be in sections like this:

DOCUMENTED D* TIPS AND TRICKS
(link)

SETUP SUGGESTIONS
Use composite out instead of HDMI as it seems to be more stable for many with little difference in picture quality.
etc...

IF YOU LOCKUP DURING PLAYBACK
Try hitting these keystrokes

etc.

[cbearnm]

How about if Scribo-san sends his list to Earl, who then posts it into the first post in the thread. As more suggestions come in, the first post gets updated.

Or if Milominderbinder2 get the list and sends the PDF to Earl and he just keeps it in the first post as it is edited.

It's so easy to give other people homework, but you guys know how much it is appreciated. It's also pretty nice to get lists like that in one uniform manner, which can only happen with one writer. This way we get the discussions about the tips, but also have a nice distilled list to go by. I remember that someone mentioned something, but just can't seem to always find it.

[compac]

How about marking a recorded program to "keep"
hit blue button while in My Vod prog recorded list...

High lite prog you want to keep (arrow up - down ) then press blue
K appears next to title blue again toggles off :)

[Bofurley]

Earl, can you watch the HD channels we now receive on the new HR20 DVR since they aren't in the new format?
Thanks

[cybrsurfer]

Earl, can you watch the HD channels we now receive on the new HR20 DVR since they aren't in the new format?
Thanks

Yes you should have no problem with viewing and recording HD channels your subscribed to. You can watch HD MPEG2 and MPEG4.

[Bofurley]

Thanks to all for the quick response on my question concerning MPEG2 and 4

[mcbeevee]

Discovered a neat trick with the HR20 last night. If I need to take a break from watching a recorded program, I will press the stop button, then press the Exit button to get the full screen video. To resume playing the recorded program, all I had to do was press the Prev button! :)

[jlancaster]

Discovered a neat trick with the HR20 last night. If I need to take a break from watching a recorded program, I will press the stop button, then press the Exit button to get the full screen video. To resume playing the recorded program, all I had to do was press the Prev button! :)

I like this one. Thanks.

[ManOfChill]

Has anyone successfully set up a recurring manual recording for M-F only?

I'm trying to setup a recurring Mon-Fri recording but the HR20 will only record for the current week. There is nothing in the ToDo List after Friday. I've deleted are recreated this several times without success. I can't use Series Link because this show repeats a thousand times and the DVR can't seem to figure out what a First Run is.

[Leftcoastdave]

Has anyone successfully set up a recurring manual recording for M-F only?

I'm trying to setup a recurring Mon-Fri recording but the HR20 will only record for the current week. There is nothing in the ToDo List after Friday. I've deleted are recreated this several times without success. I can't use Series Link because this show repeats a thousand times and the DVR can't seem to figure out what a First Run is.

I feel your pain. I have been trying to record the O'Reilley Factor daily at 5 PM PDT and do not want the reruns at 8:00 PM and 1:00 AM so I tried to set up a manual record for the 5 to 6 PM broadcast. Initially the To Do list looks good and then after a day or so the event is corrupted and has to be deleted.

I have been trying to set up M-F manual recurring events ever since acquiring the HR20 two weeks ago. It does not work consistently and after a few days the future events all end up in the cancellation list. I have to remove it from the Prioritizer manually. The double dash delete will not work.

I try this each time we get a new software release and it is one of the items that has not yet been fixed. The other item I have found that rarely works consistently is using the extender on sporting events. Most of the time, the game is cut off early despite padding with an extender.

About the only thing that does work consistently well is series recording a program within the program grid.

Dave

[scottjf8]

New user here...

How do you setup a Season Link, even if there is a conflict on the first episode?

Example : I want to set a SL for The TOnight Show w/ Jay Leno. I tried to double-record on tonight's showing, but I have 2 things scheduled to record. On my Tivo, it would just tell me it won't record tonight because of a conflict, but will record on Monday, Tuesday, etc.. The HR20 doesn't seem to want me to do that..

[giden]

Is there any way to force an update? With the HR10 (TIVO) I could go to "PHONE" and force a call. How do you do that with the HR20? Is it even possible??

[Xaa]

New user here...

How do you setup a Season Link, even if there is a conflict on the first episode?

Example : I want to set a SL for The TOnight Show w/ Jay Leno. I tried to double-record on tonight's showing, but I have 2 things scheduled to record. On my Tivo, it would just tell me it won't record tonight because of a conflict, but will record on Monday, Tuesday, etc.. The HR20 doesn't seem to want me to do that..

Hi Scott,

The conflict screen you are seeing is just for that episode, not for the SL as a whole. If you want to not record the first one, just choose "Cancel Request" which will take you back to the SL set up screen. There, just choose done. (if you choose record as set again, you will get the same screen, if you choose cancel, you will cancel the SL.)

Now, on the episode you chose, you will see a different icon. Instead of the circle with and R in it, you'll see and x'd out circle with an asterisk by it indicating that it won't record. Other episodes will be added to the to do list (eventually) and your SL will be fine.

I like the conflict resolution on this machine, but the process you've encountered is counter intuitive and leaves the user wondering what happened. That's compounded by the fact that the to do list doesn't immediately populate with the rest of the episodes.

Good luck and Welcome to the HR20olution! :D

[bonscott87]

Is there any way to force an update? With the HR10 (TIVO) I could go to "PHONE" and force a call. How do you do that with the HR20? Is it even possible??

No reason to, it's all automatic via the sat, phone line not required for this box other then PPV.

There is a code you can type in on a reboot to force it to check for a new software update if available but if you already have the update all you're doing is rebooting for no reason.

[compac]

I too get the "short" black screen when the jump back is tried, but only about 1/2 the time... no pattern but the hr20 seems to be retrying to format as the lights jump around from 1080 to a lower setting and back.??

Similar to your #3 my todo list changed by itself changing a HD nfl Eagles game to the replay time @ 6pm instead of the 1pm I set from the guide. Wanted to watch it near live time but have it for later viewing (sorry a$$ game they deserved the loss) rant off.


Remote seems super-sensitive and at the same time un sensitive other times too w/ us. takes and misses too many button presses. Batteries are good. and we know how to point it...


What sould we all do??? Retern for a new one C.

First post, so please be gentle :) .


A couple of questions\problems:

1) I've had one black screen recording so far. It wouldn't FF, RW, or 30 second skip. Just a black screen and it would not respond. I finally had to delete the recording. From what I've read this is fairly common and hopefully a fix will be forthcoming.

3) I've had some problems trying to manually re-record a repeat of a show that I have a Series Link for. For example, I recorded Friday Night Lights on Tuesday night via my Series Link (set to First Run Only). The recording was bad (see #1 above), but thankfully NBC was replaying the same episode on Wednesday night. So I went in through My VOD to view upcoming episodes, and tried to click Record, but it wouldn't do

4) I've had a lot of audio drops and pixellation on my HD locals (Chicago area). It's especially bad on my local CBS station (channel 2). I assume it's the station or DTV and not the receiver/dish. Anybody else in the Chicago area having these same problems or is it in fact my receiver/dish? No problems on any other HD or SD channels.

5) My DTV remote seems super-sensitive. Is anyone else having this problem with the DTV universal remote? I figure either it's sensitive for everybody, it's just my remote, or it's just a matter of me getting used to a new remote.

.

[boomer]

Just got my HR20 on Saturday...went through and set up
season passes, but cannot get the default options to be
"First Run Only".....

Anyone know how to set that?

[bluesjam]

It's under Series Link, not sure there's an easy way to get there, you select the show in your to do list and then slecet Record, you'll see the tab there.

[PoitNarf]

Just got my HR20 on Saturday...went through and set up
season passes, but cannot get the default options to be
"First Run Only".....

Anyone know how to set that?

When you're on the Series Link screen, press the menu button. There will be an option there to change the defaults for the SL.

[WANDERER]

HEY GUYS - anyone know how to trick the HR20 into reformatting?

[giden]

I keep reading that some have two recievers set up. How do I do this? Doesn't it require additional cable runs from the dish to the second reciever? I'm using the HR20 (with some minor problems) but I also still have the HR10. I'd like to be able to use it WITH the HR20 as others have evidently been able to do. Plus, I would then be able to use PIP?? Thanks for your help.

[Andrew_J_M]

I keep reading that some have two recievers set up. How do I do this? Doesn't it require additional cable runs from the dish to the second reciever? I'm using the HR20 (with some minor problems) but I also still have the HR10. I'd like to be able to use it WITH the HR20 as others have evidently been able to do. Plus, I would then be able to use PIP?? Thanks for your help.

Yes, you will need to run two extra coax cables from the dish or multiswitch if you have one. If you are using an AV receiver for surrond sound and as an input switch you will need to add the HR10 to an unused source on that, otherwise you will have to add it to a seperate input on the TV.

[bonscott87]

I keep reading that some have two recievers set up. How do I do this? Doesn't it require additional cable runs from the dish to the second reciever? I'm using the HR20 (with some minor problems) but I also still have the HR10. I'd like to be able to use it WITH the HR20 as others have evidently been able to do. Plus, I would then be able to use PIP?? Thanks for your help.

You simply need a cable for every tuner. If you only have 4 tuners then you run 4 lines from the dish to your receivers. If you need more then 4 then you run 4 lines to the switch and then up to 8 lines from the switch to all your receivers.

I have 3 receivers on my HDTV. The HR20, a SD DirecTivo, and an old HD receiver (for OTA). So I have 5 cables to that area (not including OTA runs). All 3 receivers are piped into my Yamaha A/V receiver as well as DVD player and VCR.

[giden]

Thanks for all the quick responses. I'm not sure how to add lines from the dish to the recievers. There is a multi-switch on the side of the house (lines from the dish to it, then in to the house and the various recievers), but it is "full", no way to add additional lines from it. Am I doomed? or can I upgrade to a different mulit-switch? If there is a way to add some sort of "box" inside the house, that will accept additional lines, that would be the way to go for me. Thoughts? Thanks again!!

Oh, what about the "card" needed for the additional reciever? I'm pretty sure the installer left it in the reciever, but will *D activate it for me? Probably requires additional monthly charge???

[bidger]

Is there an equivalent of "Slow" from the HR10 on the HR20?

[mtnagel]

Is there an equivalent of "Slow" from the HR10 on the HR20?Hold down play.

[bidger]

Thanks Matt.

[Dyno Don]

First post!!!

Great info here folks, thanks. I accepted three HR20s from D*, replacing 2 250's (which I kept). Other than Mpeg4 probs, I love 'em.

My question. With TiVo, you finish a show and delete it, it returns you to the menu exactly where you left off. So you can watch the next show without searching for it. On the HR you go back to the top. Is there a setting for this? Anyone else thinks this is a pain? My wife whines daily. (isn't it always the better half?)

Thanks
Don

[Andrew_J_M]

First post!!!

Great info here folks, thanks. I accepted three HR20s from D*, replacing 2 250's (which I kept). Other than Mpeg4 probs, I love 'em.

My question. With TiVo, you finish a show and delete it, it returns you to the menu exactly where you left off. So you can watch the next show without searching for it. On the HR you go back to the top. Is there a setting for this? Anyone else thinks this is a pain? My wife whines daily. (isn't it always the better half?)

Thanks
Don

I dislike this too, also when watching a recording hitting stop takes back to the MY Vod list but unlike the Tivo the show selected is not the one I was watching. So I have to navigate to the correct show before double-dashing it.

[Frodtab]

First post!!!

Great info here folks, thanks. I accepted three HR20s from D*, replacing 2 250's (which I kept). Other than Mpeg4 probs, I love 'em.

My question. With TiVo, you finish a show and delete it, it returns you to the menu exactly where you left off. So you can watch the next show without searching for it. On the HR you go back to the top. Is there a setting for this? Anyone else thinks this is a pain? My wife whines daily. (isn't it always the better half?)

Thanks
Don

I could not agree with you more. Always taking you to the top of the list is very annoying when your likely first action is with the recording you were just watching or in the same general time period where the last show was. Still, there are other issues that I'd rank higher in importance to fix but this one is an annoying one.

[Dyno Don]

I could not agree with you more. Always taking you to the top of the list is very annoying when your likely first action is with the recording you were just watching or in the same general time period where the last show was. Still, there are other issues that I'd rank higher in importance to fix but this one is an annoying one.

Oh, granted, this is nothing. I was hoping someone would respond and say "there is an option for that" but I guess not. With the limited space I have (I am used to self expanded TiVos) the list isn't ever going to be that long.

Don

[Milominderbinder2]

Earl,

With help from the dbstalk users, I have compiled a list of steps for a successful HR-20 installation. It would help a new user prevent many of the problems that we see in the forum.

Click below for the installation Tips and Tips and Tricks.

Thank you for doing this forum,

Craig

[jayco59]

I was wondering if the ATSC tuner's were enabled yet? I have the HR20 on order and it's scheduled for a Dec 11th installation and I need to have my Local HD's!
Thanks,
Jay

[matto]

No, they are not enabled. DirecTV has made several promises via several unofficial channels which seem to conflict, with dates from October through December.

They've also promised that the DVR will actually work, so, er, their information is sort of suspect.

[Satster]

Thanks Scott, for the tip. But your last statement raises a question: is there anyway to prevent a picture-in-* window? Let's say you're recording two sporting events and want to start watching one or both before they're finished. You turn on the HR20, and, bam!, there's one of the games on your screen, even after you switch to MyVOD. A premature score-u-lation will most certainly result. After originally not liking it, I came to like the TiVo's lack of any "live" display unless you specifically selected it.

JS

I agree and this is a critical use case for me. All I do is record games it seems. I think there may be a solution, but I am not sure. I just got the HR20 and unfortunately, it looks like the hard drive is defective so they will be sending me a new unit, so I can only test it when I get it. I hope it works, otherwise I will be reverting to my HR10, solely based on the above problem.

Anyway, here is what I think should be possible. Before you turn on the TV, press LIST-SELECT-SELECT.
LIST should get you to the first myVOD screen, with the most recent show highlighted
The first SELECT should get you to the info screen for that show
The second SELECT should start that game from the beginning which should be OK.

You should then be able to hit PAUSE, then LIST to navigate to the show you actually want to start. I am hoping that at that point all you see in the preview window is the frozen frame from the beginning of one of the games.

Now if the most recent game in myVOD is the second of a back to backer on the same channel and the first one may have gone over the originally scheduled time, you still risk seeing the end of the first game. In that case, hit the DOWN button several times after hitting LIST. Then hit SELECT. (so LIST-DOWN-DOWN-DOWN-...-SELECT-SELECT). This should get you to the beginning of a show on myVOD that is safe from spoilers. You can then hit PAUSE-LIST to pause this show and navigate to the show that you really want to watch without a spoiler.

It's more complicated than just hitting the DIRECTV button to see the "Now Playing" list on the HR10, but I really hope it would work. I would stand right in front of the unit while doing this to make sure all the commands "take".

I wish I could try it. If someone tries does, could they please post whether it works?

Satster (first post, new to the forum.)

[mtnagel]

Thanks Scott, for the tip. But your last statement raises a question: is there anyway to prevent a picture-in-* window? Let's say you're recording two sporting events and want to start watching one or both before they're finished. You turn on the HR20, and, bam!, there's one of the games on your screen, even after you switch to MyVOD. A premature score-u-lation will most certainly result. After originally not liking it, I came to like the TiVo's lack of any "live" display unless you specifically selected it.

JSI agree and this is a critical use case for me. All I do is record games it seems. I think there may be a solution, but I am not sure. I just got the HR20 and unfortunately, it looks like the hard drive is defective so they will be sending me a new unit, so I can only test it when I get it. I hope it works, otherwise I will be reverting to my HR10, solely based on the above problem.

Anyway, here is what I think should be possible. Before you turn on the TV, press LIST-SELECT-SELECT.
LIST should get you to the first myVOD screen, with the most recent show highlighted
The first SELECT should get you to the info screen for that show
The second SELECT should start that game from the beginning which should be OK.

You should then be able to hit PAUSE, then LIST to navigate to the show you actually want to start. I am hoping that at that point all you see in the preview window is the frozen frame from the beginning of one of the games.

Now if the most recent game in myVOD is the second of a back to backer on the same channel and the first one may have gone over the originally scheduled time, you still risk seeing the end of the first game. In that case, hit the DOWN button several times after hitting LIST. Then hit SELECT. (so LIST-DOWN-DOWN-DOWN-...-SELECT-SELECT). This should get you to the beginning of a show on myVOD that is safe from spoilers. You can then hit PAUSE-LIST to pause this show and navigate to the show that you really want to watch without a spoiler.

It's more complicated than just hitting the DIRECTV button to see the "Now Playing" list on the HR10, but I really hope it would work. I would stand right in front of the unit while doing this to make sure all the commands "take".

I wish I could try it. If someone tries does, could they please post whether it works?

Satster (first post, new to the forum.)I didn't quite follow your explanation, but I think you may be making it too complicated. If you are recording two games, before you want to switch to the other game, just hit Pause, then List. That way, the picture in the guide will just be paused on the game you were watching. Another way, since I assume you will never be able to read the scores in that tiny window, is to hit the mute button and then the stop button and that will take you to your list, but it takes you to live of whatever you are recording, so the mute is necessary in case they say the score. Hope that helps.

[Satster]

I didn't quite follow your explanation, but I think you may be making it too complicated. If you are recording two games, before you want to switch to the other game, just hit Pause, then List. That way, the picture in the guide will just be paused on the game you were watching. Another way, since I assume you will never be able to read the scores in that tiny window, is to hit the mute button and then the stop button and that will take you to your list, but it takes you to live of whatever you are recording, so the mute is necessary in case they say the score. Hope that helps.

Thanks. Sorry, I tend to be long winded. What I propose is really not that hard.

To be clear I am not worried about switching between games, just getting to the myVOD listing without any spoilers as soon as I turn the TV on.

Anyway, I think what you have is reasonable, and I will try it when I get a replacement HR20. But you have to understand I am really paranoid about finding out any hint of the score. Couple that with great peripheral vision :) and I think pausing still has some risks:.
- I did not get a chance to play with the HR20, but it seemed to me that I could read the score displayed during play in that small window in my 50 inch TV, but I admit I would need to be looking for it, which in this case I won't
- I could definitly read it if I catch the score displayed across screen just before they go to commercial.
- I could also freeze the frame on a shot of players celebrating a score or some other significant event.

This said, it seems simple and workable in most cases. It also eliminates the risk of not getting a long sequence of commands right.

Anyway, thanks again.

Satster

[mtnagel]

Thanks. Sorry, I tend to be long winded. What I propose is really not that hard.

To be clear I am not worried about switching between games, just getting to the myVOD listing without any spoilers as soon as I turn the TV on.

Anyway, I think what you have is reasonable, and I will try it when I get a replacement HR20. But you have to understand I am really paranoid about finding out any hint of the score. Couple that with great peripheral vision :) and I think pausing still has some risks:.
- I did not get a chance to play with the HR20, but it seemed to me that I could read the score displayed during play in that small window in my 50 inch TV, but I admit I would need to be looking for it, which in this case I won't
- I could definitly read it if I catch the score displayed across screen just before they go to commercial.
- I could also freeze the frame on a shot of players celebrating a score or some other significant event.

This said, it seems simple and workable in most cases. It also eliminates the risk of not getting a long sequence of commands right.

Anyway, thanks again.

SatsterAh, I get it now. If you are only recording one game and you haven't turned the tv on, you could just press the channel down button and that should change to a different channel while still recording the game. Then turn the tv on and you should be fine.

And trust me, I'm also paranoid about seeing the score when I'm watching two games and not caught up to live. This is OT, but I only watch the Bills and Bengals games and most of the time they are both on at 1 pm, so what I do is record both and start watching one. I then put tape across the screen so that I don't see the scores on the bottom of the screen. I also have to pray that they don't show any highlights from the other game. If they do, I just close my eyes and FF until I think I'm past it. Usually around each quarter, I will start the other and watch that one and switch back and forth.

Edit: and now going back and reading your post and trying to figure out what you are trying to accomplish, before you turn the tv on, you could always just hit List and then the Play button (instead of your select) to start the first recording.

[Satster]

Edit: and now going back and reading your post and trying to figure out what you are trying to accomplish, before you turn the tv on, you could always just hit List and then the Play button (instead of your select) to start the first recording.

Thank you. Even better. Looks like I will actually use the HR20 when the replacement arrives. I just hope SW reliability will improve too. From what I've been reading, it's not pretty at the moment.

Satster

[mwhaley]

I use the "Universal Remote" R7... I just learned 'guide' into an unused button, and the made the "GUIDE" button a macro that does two of the 'guide' buttons.. so now when I push it.. BOOM.. right to guide!

Of course.. you can't do this with the original remote.. but everyone should get a 'any brand' universal remote with lighting and better layout and all.. I use "Univeral Remote" brand R7... love it... brother uses a Harmony model.

I have that remote, I thought you could only do macros on the power buttons.

Can you tell me or send me a link that shows how I can setup Macros on other keys, please.

[giden]

I'm not sure if this is the right place to ask, but here goes. I have the HR20 reciever, Visio 42" Plasma TV. How, if possible, can I get PIP to work? Thanks in advance for the help.

[snewo]

I'm not sure if this is the right place to ask, but here goes. I have the HR20 reciever, Visio 42" Plasma TV. How, if possible, can I get PIP to work? Thanks in advance for the help.

I have to reply back with a question.

What inputs on your TV can you use with PIP? Let's assume that the answer to that question is HDMI and Component. Then you'll need to send the HR20 receiver into one of those inputs and have another device feed your other input. With the HR20 being your sole input method I know of no way to get PIP.


Snewo

[giden]

I have to reply back with a question.

What inputs on your TV can you use with PIP? Let's assume that the answer to that question is HDMI and Component. Then you'll need to send the HR20 receiver into one of those inputs and have another device feed your other input. With the HR20 being your sole input method I know of no way to get PIP.


Snewo

Thanks for the answer. I DO have HDMI and Component inputs on my TV. I also have (not in use) a spare HR10-250 box that I could use as the second device feed. My problem is: There are no lines available from my dish that I can connect to the second device. I guess I'm out of luck? And, if there were lines available for the second device, will *D activate the card OR will they make me pay for the additional device as if was set up to feed an additional tv/room on my system?

[mikepatt]

Thanks for the answer. I DO have HDMI and Component inputs on my TV. I also have (not in use) a spare HR10-250 box that I could use as the second device feed. My problem is: There are no lines available from my dish that I can connect to the second device. I guess I'm out of luck? And, if there were lines available for the second device, will *D activate the card OR will they make me pay for the additional device as if was set up to feed an additional tv/room on my system?

I have two boxes feeding one TV and I have to pay for both boxes.

Mike

[mndwalsh]

I have two boxes feeding one TV and I have to pay for both boxes.

Mike

me too, one of the greatest plans I have had was to leave the 10-250 in play for the wife and have a backup for all of my shows

[mikepatt]

me too, one of the greatest plans I have had was to leave the 10-250 in play for the wife and have a backup for all of my shows

Yeah, I am using my old SD Tivo box as a backup for now, since I had so much trouble with my first HR-20. Since I got the replacement, I haven't needed the backup, but Murphy's Law says that as soon as I disconnect the backup, that is when I will start having trouble with the replacement! So for now, until all the bugs are out, I am keeping the backup.

Mike

[satjay]

I just upgraded to the HDDVR, and the info on this board has been great!. I do have one question. First Run VS repeats, I remeber my standard DVR recoring everything even if it was a re-run...But it kind of worked the cinks out. I am having the same problem with the NEW DVR, its recording re-runs like last nights "The Office" even though the guide has it posted as a re-reun???

Will this issue, just work it way by itself? or is there something else I can do, I have the latest software updates

[Milominderbinder2]

I am having the same problem with the NEW DVR, its recording re-runs like last nights "The Office" even though the guide has it posted as a re-reun???

Check out this thread:

http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=73997

If you have not looked at the Tips & Tricks link below, it has help with many of the features.

Please also cast your vote on Wishlist Survey link.

- Take Care,

Craig

[CAL7]

I have an HR20 coming in 23 days and have scanned the forum for two days in eager anticipation. Despite all that reading, I have a couple of questions still unanswered (4 out of an initial list of hundreds ain't bad):


Is there a consensus as to whether the HR10/MPEG2 or HR20/MPEG4 has better quality?

Since MPEG4 compresses more, if quality doesn't suffer, it would be preferable. In the NYC DMA, are the locals available as MPEG4 to get the higher storage? How about the nationwide east coast feeds (e.g. Ch 80, I think).

I have seen some hints that there is no folders option per se - just different ways to sort. Is this right? Until it crashed on me, this was a very nice feature with the HR10 6.3 update. If no folders on the HR20, is there any hint from D* that it is a coming attraction?

I love the HR10 remote - nice, compact and comfortable to hold in one hand. I assume the peanut-shape is gone, but how would you rate the HR20 remote for comfort?
Thanks for everyone's help!

[litzdog911]

I have an HR20 coming in 23 days and have scanned the forum for two days in eager anticipation. Despite all that reading, I have a couple of questions still unanswered (4 out of an initial list of hundreds ain't bad):


Is there a consensus as to whether the HR10/MPEG2 or HR20/MPEG4 has better quality?

Since MPEG4 compresses more, if quality doesn't suffer, it would be preferable. In the NYC DMA, are the locals available as MPEG4 to get the higher storage? How about the nationwide east coast feeds (e.g. Ch 80, I think).

I have seen some hints that there is no folders option per se - just different ways to sort. Is this right? Until it crashed on me, this was a very nice feature with the HR10 6.3 update. If no folders on the HR20, is there any hint from D* that it is a coming attraction?

I love the HR10 remote - nice, compact and comfortable to hold in one hand. I assume the peanut-shape is gone, but how would you rate the HR20 remote for comfort?
Thanks for everyone's help!


1. No consensus. I my own comparisons of MPEG2 HD vs. MPEG4 HD, I detect very little difference. DirecTV has been improving the MPEG4 encoders used for local HDTV rebroadcasts, and that seems to help a lot.

2. I don't get the East or West Coast feeds, so cannot comment on their quality.

3. The HR20 HD DVR has folders.

4. I think the HR20's remote is fine. Mostly I use my MX500 universal remote, though.

[Sixto]

On the HR10, you can program the remote to turn on/off the TV and a Receiver both at the same time by just hitting the TV Power button once. It was a hidden feature of the HR10 (TiVo) remote.

Any way to do this with the HR20?

Right now I need to hit power on/off, then switch to AV1 and hit Power, then switch back to DirecTV mode.

[Tbur]

I also have a bit of the bottom guide cut off as well as a bit at the top of the screen. I've had other HD recievers (direct and comcast) in the past and not had an issue.

I have an Pioneer Pro 610HD (circa 2000 - it refuses to die :) connceted via component video cable.

In reading some of the posts it is suggested that the soution is in adjusting the TV ? There isn't anything in the users menu to allow this adjustment.

In that case does anyone know where I could find info about getting access to the service menu on this TV ? (its working great but I'd rather put any money towards a new plasma versus a service call :) )

Thanks!

[Leftcoastdave]

I also have a bit of the bottom guide cut off as well as a bit at the top of the screen. I've had other HD recievers (direct and comcast) in the past and not had an issue.

I have an Pioneer Pro 610HD (circa 2000 - it refuses to die :) connceted via component video cable.

In reading some of the posts it is suggested that the soution is in adjusting the TV ? There isn't anything in the users menu to allow this adjustment.

In that case does anyone know where I could find info about getting access to the service menu on this TV ? (its working great but I'd rather put any money towards a new plasma versus a service call :) )

Thanks!


I found this link for a service manual for the Pro 610HD. If you plan on keeping your Pioneer, it is worth the $10 the guy is asking. Pioneer used to ask as much as $75.00 for these manuals.

http://www.tradebit.com/searchfiles.php

This is slightly off topic, but until October, 2006 I owned a vintage 2001 Pioneer Elite Pro 620HD and loved it. It was the best looking HDTV in the neighborhood and well it should have been for $5,800. Prior to this set, I owned a Pro 510HD and before that one a Pro 77 RPTV. Needless to say, I was sold on Pioneer Elite.

In my frequent trips to Fry's, Best Buy, and Circuit City over the past 15 months, I kept noticing the white & black levels on the Sony SXRD A2000's. I finally decided to put my Pioneer on the market and I opted for a 1080p 55 in. Sony KDF55A2000 to replace my beloved Elite. I did not realize how much darker the Elite was after 5 years of use. I suspect your 610HD is also much darker and unlike newer LCD rear projection TV's, there is no lamp to replace to boost the whites and blacks. Replacing CRT's is expensive and frankly not practical.

Free advice department - it is time to replace your Pioneer and move up to one of the newer 1080p displays. SXRD prices are so much better than flat panel and plasma that they deserve a serious look.

The prices have never been better. I saw the 50" Sony SXRD at www.jr.com for under $2,000 including shipping from NYC. Trust me, this is the best picture I have ever seen on any tv at any price. I made the switch in October and could not be happier. ((As a 610HD owner, you will find the 84 pound SXRD footprint very acceptable in the space where your 610HD used to live.))

Good luck.

Dave

[Tbur]

Yes I've been holding out, avoiding any look at new tv's as I know I'll be walking out with one ! They say about 7 years is the CRT life, so it's time. (I plan on getting out the wood working tools on the beautiful 610 cabinet and turning it into a stand for the new tv. I think it will be easier than trying to hoist the 300lb'er outa the house !

I may just relent and pay for a service call as I understand is an intricate adjustment (times 3 for each tube) or ... go dark side and start shopping !

[Leftcoastdave]

Yes I've been holding out, avoiding any look at new tv's as I know I'll be walking out with one ! They say about 7 years is the CRT life, so it's time. (I plan on getting out the wood working tools on the beautiful 610 cabinet and turning it into a stand for the new tv. I think it will be easier than trying to hoist the 300lb'er outa the house !

I may just relent and pay for a service call as I understand is an intricate adjustment (times 3 for each tube) or ... go dark side and start shopping !

I did some lengthy research on ebay and craigslist and the going price for one of these Elite RPTV's is somewhere between $550 and $750 for local pickup. Since you live in a large metro area, you might have a shot at finding a buyer. I sold mine in a private sale to a wannabee HDTV'er for $750, so I got lucky. Chances are your $5,000 TV will fetch $500 best case or it might be a great donation for some needy veteran's hospital or nursing home.

Good Luck.