HD Receiver Installation FAQ

[Milominderbinder2]

Welcome to the HD Receiver Installation FAQ!

Note:
1. Only an HR20 (not HR21) can receive all of your local HD channels (OTA).
→ How to get an HR20 instead of HR21 (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?p=1270572#post1270572) (Thanks to Hasan)
2. The H20 and H21 are not HD DVRs (Digital Video Recorders) and can not Rcord or Pause.

These are the most Frequently Asked Questions about HD Receiver Installation and Setup. While these are specific to the HD DVR PLUS HR20 or HR21, these concepts apply to all satellite receivers. Let's get started!

What do I need to know when I place my order?
→ HD DVR (HR20/21) Ordering Tips (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?p=839938#post839938)

What are the basic steps I could take to insure a great installation?
→ See the Receiver-Installation-Tips.pdf link below.

What satellite dish do I need? Will the existing dish work?
→ 5-LNB Multi-Satellite Dish (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?p=942518#post942518)

What will I be asked to sign once the installation is complete?
→ Installation Checklist (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?p=1030383#post1030383) ● Agreement (http://www.directv.com/DTVAPP/global/contentPageNR.jsp?assetId=P400042)

Do you have a cheat sheet to help me find all of the features?
→ Undocumented Tips & Tricks (http://tinyurl.com/yswcpa)

How Do I program my Remote to also control my TV, DVR, stereo or another satellite receiver?
→ Remote Control Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=108130)

What can help me transition from TiVo?
→ TiVo Users Survival Guide (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=69404)

Why would I want to connect a TV antenna to my HD Receiver? How do I do it?
→ Local HD Channel Setup (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=71203) ● Get More Great Local HD Channels (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?p=1042341#post1042341)

How do I connect more than one TV to an HR20 or HR21?
→ Connecting The HD DVR+ to Multiple TVs (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?p=888299#post888299)

How do I setup my HD DVR+ so that I can I listen to MP3 music and see jpg photos?
→ HR20: Networking and ViiV (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=72947) ● Networking with Windows Media Player (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=74426) ● Network Configuration (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=99327)

Do you have any other links that might help me?
→ Installation Forum (http://www.dbstalk.com/forumdisplay.php?f=113) ● Grounding Requirements (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?p=941620#post941620)
→ Single Wire Multiswitch (SWM) (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?p=942535#post942535) ●
Customer Installation Support:1-888-355-7530 (http://www.directv.com/DTVAPP/global/contentPage.jsp?assetId=700002) ● Dish Installation Videos (http://www.solidsignal.com/satellite/at9_install_videos.asp)

We hope that this will give you a great start with your HD Receiver. You have dozens of other resources in the larger HD DVR FAQ (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=76617).

- Craig

Download History: 15,944 Downloads

[matto]

Awesome compilation! Thanks for taking the time to write it.
A couple of minor nits:

in step 3, the dish is an "AT9". "A9" only comes from Amazon ;-)

in step 12, you might want to note that sometimes a reset is required in order to get DD working. This may have been resolved in a recent release, but I don't recall seeing it mentioned in release notes.

Great work! Thanks again for compiling the tips.

[Milominderbinder2]

Awesome compilation! Thanks for taking the time to write it.
A couple of minor nits:

in step 3, the dish is an "AT9". "A9" only comes from Amazon ;-)

in step 12, you might want to note that sometimes a reset is required in order to get DD working. This may have been resolved in a recent release, but I don't recall seeing it mentioned in release notes.

Great work! Thanks again for compiling the tips.

Thank you for your help! I incorporated your ideas and a number of other ideas sent privately including:

+ How and why you need surge supression and a battery backup.
+ The Frequency Translator Modules need to be connected when the new content is released next year.
+ Specific steps to set up Dolby Digital and parental controls

Thank you for yet more ideas!

Earl, can these installation tips be added to the Tips and Tricks for the HR20 sticky note? Think how many problems could have been prevented if everyone had known these tips and tricks before they first installed their HR-20's.

-Craig

[matto]

Another suggestion, what you refer to as FTMs are actually "BBCs", or BroadBand Converter modules. They allow the unit (which is designed with FTM functionality) to work without one.

The other side of the FTM will likely replace what we're now using for a multiswitch, and will allow two tuners in the DVR to share a single line to the FTM multiswitch replacement.

Other than that, it looks good!

[Milominderbinder2]

Matto,

Thank you for more great ideas. I updated again. I have also created a companion piece for everyday tips:

http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=67933

Hope you like that as well. Please let me know you corrections and ideas for that one as well.

[Jomanscool2]

First off, thank you, this is very usefull information. I will probably go buy a few battery backups soon (been meaning to for a while, now I have more motivation.

Second, my installer did not plug in the included BBC (I still have them, though). Currently, the direct tv goes straight from the dish, to the multiswitch they gave me, to the boxes. Two of the feeds from the multiswitch go directly to the HR-20, nothing in between.

What should I do with these two BBCs, if anything?

From what I can tell, everything seems to be running fine. But who knows.

[litzdog911]

...

What should I do with these two BBCs, if anything?

....

Keep them. You'll need to install them when the new Ka-band MPEG4 satellites go active early next year.

[Jomanscool2]

Thanks litzdog, but would there be any consequence to installing them now? I mean, wheres a better place to keep them than actually connected to the box?


P.s., I love the picture, reminds me there are actually people out there I'm talking to and not just robots :grin:

[litzdog911]

Thanks litzdog, but would there be any consequence to installing them now? I mean, wheres a better place to keep them than actually connected to the box?


P.s., I love the picture, reminds me there are actually people out there I'm talking to and not just robots :grin:


You can safely install them now. Some folks have had issues with dead BBC's though, so be prepared to remove them if you have problems.

[paulman182]

If you install them now you can tell if you are receiving signals on the 99 and 103 sats or not. The signals will not be strong because they are spotbeams pointed in other directions, but you will be able to tell that the BBCs are letting the signals through and you are ready for the new sats.

Then remove them if you have problems and call D*!

[getrusty]

Good job but I disagree with the HDMI being problematic. I am using it on 3 systems and all are flawless.

[litzdog911]

Good job but I disagree with the HDMI being problematic. I am using it on 3 systems and all are flawless.

You're lucky. The situation is certainly improving, but some folks are still have compatibility issues.

[Milominderbinder2]

UNOFFICIAL HR-20 Tips & Tricks Version 2.0 is Complete!

The companion piece to the Installation Tips is the UNOFFICIAL HR-20 Tips & Tricks. Version 2.0 of those tips is now available at:

http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=67933

There is a new page of added tips and many corrections and clarifications.

Again, thank you to everyone for your ideas and especially to Earl for making this possible.

Please keep the ideas flowing!

-Craig

[whitey2755]

UNOFFICIAL HR-20 Tips & Tricks Version 2.0 is Complete!

The companion piece to the Installation Tips is the UNOFFICIAL HR-20 Tips & Tricks. Version 2.0 of those tips is now available at:

http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=67933

There is a new page of added tips and many corrections and clarifications.

Again, thank you to everyone for your ideas and especially to Earl for making this possible.

Please keep the ideas flowing!

-Craig


Vey, Very helpful. Thank you very much!!!:hurah:

[nFavor]

I absolutely agree that a battery backup is a good idea but you don't mention the biggest reason that I use it. You'll never have to wait the x minutes it takes to restart the unit if the power dips out for a second.

The first time that most anyone looses x minutes of a recording, they'll quickly go out and get a UPS for their unit!

[Milominderbinder2]

I will note that at the very least you can lose part of a recording to a power dip unless you have a UPS. I will add this note and many other feedback notes to the Installation Tips and get the new version posted today. -Craig

[Milominderbinder2]

Thank you to so many who have sent ideas and corrections, especially 911 medic and nFavor.

The HR-20 Installation Tips version 2.0 has been posted.

Please keep the ideas coming!

- Craig

[Milominderbinder2]

Cabling issues represent many of the calls to Tech Support. There are simple steps you can take to help prevent most of them. Those new tips have been added.

ADDED:

As to HDMI, we have seen maybe a hundred people state that by going from HDMI to Component they solved problems. We have heard from many that HDMI was working great for a while and then problems began.

We have not seen one person say that they had Component problems that HDMI solved. Tech support has seen the same pattern and is asking users not to use HDMI unless they have to.

One answer might be to run HDMI in one Video Input on your TV and Component on another. You always would have a fail safe that way if you had problems with HDMI. A true nerd could flip back and forth endlessly to check out the picture quality on every channel!

Take care,

Craig

[gator5000e]

Hey guys, this is a great section, but I just got the HR20 today to install tomorrow morning. I am upgrading from the HR10-250 on my own without an official install. I recently moved so the AT9 dish has been installed and wired by a D* installer. I think I understand that I just pull the cables out of the HR10 and plug them into the corresponding plugs on the HR20.

However, I do not see any instruction on what the BBC modules are for and where and how they are to be installed.

Also, do i have to call D* to activate the box even though I already have HD DVR service? I am going to move my HR10 to my bedroom.

Thanks for any ideas and sorry for the dumb questions.

[Milominderbinder2]

...I recently moved so the AT9 dish has been installed and wired by a D* installer. I think I understand that I just pull the cables out of the HR10 and plug them into the corresponding plugs on the HR20.

You should be able to unplug them from the old box and plug them into the new box.

However, I do not see any instruction on what the BBC modules are for and where and how they are to be installed.

Install the BBC's on your Sat inputs. You will need them next year for your Ka band (B Band) signals)

Also, do i have to call D* to activate the box even though I already have HD DVR service? I am going to move my HR10 to my bedroom.

Yes. D* has activated the old box with a particular card. A different card or box requries a different activation. I suggest keeping the old box set up until you are confident in using the HR-20.

-Craig

[gator5000e]

Thank you Craig!!

[Milominderbinder2]

The new version of the HR20 Installation gudie is now available. It is updated to reflect the changes in software release 0xEF.

- Craig

[intharuff]

Just got my HR20 the day before Thanksgiving, replacing my HR 10-250. The installer was very nice and did a great job. One note I wanted to chime in on is that I had an HDMI to DVI cable on my other unit, as my TV does not have HDMI input (stupidity on my part during the purchase). The HR20 would bring up the logo screen, but you NEVER saw even the Welcome screen and the lights on the front panel would just blink. It was rebooted many times and we watched it forever. Finally, one last effort from the advice of another installer was to ditch HDMI and use component, especially since I didnt have HDMI on the other end. That did it! Cable and/or TV was not compatible or the HDMI port on on the HR20 is not right. Either way, that worked and the unit has been great thus far.

[leesweet]

Great guides, Craig! A couple of dish mount issue questions; if I've missed the info, someone point me to the information.

I'm thinking about calling D* and making a pitch for a near-free HR20 (based on paying $900 for an HR10 two years ago :) when we were promised 'free upgrades' to MPEG4).

I've seen some special issues arising on mouting the AT9 (which I'd rather have for better signal strength). My current Phase III is mounted on the main horizontal beam (not a post) of my back deck, and is very solid.

But: (1) Does the AT9 need to 'bend back' past vertical? I would think the mount would be made to attach to a vertical wall and be fine there, like a Phase III. One post somewhere here implied that it would hit the wall if you needed to bend way back.

(2) If you want to use the extra mounting braces, where do they fasten to the structure behind the dish mount? It's not clear from the AT9 instructions I've seen.

Thanks!

[Sandor]

OK, a total newbee here. Got the HR-20 installed this weekend, it works great! I was a little nervous after reading so many posts about it. Thanks for all the help, the install tips were excellent.

2 questions to the experts:

1. Even when it is off, I hear a slight humming noise like a hard drive running. I assume this is normal since everything works perfectly but I wanted to check to be sure.

2. Does it need more ventilation than any other piece of A/V equipment? I have it in my equipment cabinet where I keep everything else, it is on the top shelf with only a DVD player below it. The cabinet does have glass doors that I usually keep shut. Any issues here?

Thanks in advance.


Sandor

[Greenflag]

Another newbie here, in San Jose, Calif. Just ordered the HR-20 yesterday. What an ordeal! Spent about 2 hours with a variety of CSRs, then finally called retention and got the job done. Whew! (OT Rant!) It just amazes me some of the junk the CSRs will tell you. (end OT Rant). Retention was GREAT! Took all of 15 minutes. Got the $99 dollar deal, plus a $10/mo credit for 6 mos for a credit I forgot to request previously. And, I can keep the HR10-250 and use it in another room. Install was set for Jan 5th., but I called 'em later last nite and they found an opening next Tuesday! Been w/ D* since '02 (with a 2 month hiatus to Comcast that was a real debacle, so switched back). Started with UltimateTV (best user interface ever!), switched to HR10-250 last April, now getting HR-20. Can't wait.

Now, for my install question: The Installation Tips sheet says to make sure they install 4 NEW RG-6 wires. What's the best response if they say I don't need new wires - the old ones are just fine?

David

[tdixon7559]

I'm finally getting my HR20 installed on 12/27 with a new dish. Any differences between the AT9 and Slimline? I think both are available. I appreciate your thoughts.

[Milominderbinder2]

Now, for my install question: The Installation Tips sheet says to make sure they install 4 NEW RG-6 wires. What's the best response if they say I don't need new wires - the old ones are just fine?

David
Call D* now and get the name of the contractor. Call them as the Installation instructions say. Verify each step ahead of time. Get the commitment to the 4 New RG6 cables, switch, etc. and most importantly get their name and how to call them back. Ask for the number of the local shop they will be running out of. Call them and verify the same informaiton and again get their name.

The day before the install they are supposed to call you to confirm. By noon if they haven't call them to confirm each step. Find out the name of the installer. Tell them that you know that they will want you to sign that they confirmed all of your details the day before. Talk to the installer and confirm.

Be the first stop if possible so that they will not be late and not have used your HR20 as a backup for the previous guy.

Be there with them when they put on the F-Connectors. Even if you have no idea what you are looking for be there. Offer to help. Follow the other steps in the Installation Guide.

Good Luck!

- Craig

[Milominderbinder2]

I'm finally getting my HR20 installed on 12/27 with a new dish. Any differences between the AT9 and Slimline? I think both are available. I appreciate your thoughts.

Take the Slimline. It is smaller and lighter with the same response.

Read the Installation Tips and the Tips and Tricks. If you are a TiVo convert, check out the TiVo to HR20 Survival guide. All links are below.

-Craig

[reubenray]

I may be getting transferred to Charlotte and will most likely use the Directv movers program. I own all of my receivers and do not want to give them up. Will my current receivers (HR10-250, Sony HD200, H15 & H10) work with the new dishes. I normally get my OTA HD via an antenna and will try to get them there also.

[Fred44]

I have an install date of 3-24-07 for 5lnb dish and hr20-are they short of units again?
I have been a directv customer for 6 years and was told I was a "5 heart customer."

[Milominderbinder2]

I may be getting transferred to Charlotte and will most likely use the Directv movers program. I own all of my receivers and do not want to give them up. Will my current receivers (HR10-250, Sony HD200, H15 & H10) work with the new dishes. I normally get my OTA HD via an antenna and will try to get them there also.
Yes.
-Craig

[Milominderbinder2]

I have an install date of 3-24-07 for 5lnb dish and hr20-are they short of units again?
I have been a directv customer for 6 years and was told I was a "5 heart customer."
The Installation Tips has more on this. Get the number for the local installer. Call them directly to see if you can install quicker.

- Craig

[lyalem]

This may be a stupid question, but here goes. Just made the switch to HD by replacing my two receivers, one in bedroom (DVR) and one in living room (non-DVR). Previously, the one in my living room was connected by coax and there for the signal was able to be sent to other tvs in my house that didn't have their own receiver, but were hooked up through a coax cable in the wall and turned to channel 3 on the TV. I guess you could call them "slaves" to the living room receiver. I purchased an FM transmitter and hook-on adapters for my remote controls so that I could change the channel on the TVs with out receivers (such as a small one in the kitchen) by just pointing at it. I know that actually what it was doing was changing the channel on the living room receiver.

All that changed yesterday when the living room receiver became a new HD receiver. Now I can no longer receive a signal on TVs in my house that don't have their own receiver. I have a hard time believing that I have to have a separate receiver on every TV in my house! What is the work around?
Thanks, glad I found this forum- new user.

[carl6]

Buy an rf modulator from radio shack, connect it to the yellow/red/white outputs on your HR20, and plug the coax that goes to the other tv's into it's output.

Carl

[lyalem]

Buy an rf modulator from radio shack, connect it to the yellow/red/white outputs on your HR20, and plug the coax that goes to the other tv's into it's output.

Carl

I bought the rf mondulator, but I still cannot see Directv with the other tvs in my house. Maybe I have it hooked up incorrectly. When you say "plug the coax that goes to the other tvs" what cable are you talking about. I have two coax cables coming from the wall. Both of them were plugged into my old receiver (Hughes). One is currently plugged into a small box that says b channel or something and then goes into the HR20. The other coax is sitting on the floor because the installer said I didn't need it. That is the one I plugged into the fr modulator, but didn't change anything. I did hook up the composites (red and white) from the modulator to the HD reciever.

Am I doing something wrong. What exactly is the rf modulator supposed to do? Thanks for your help.

[Milominderbinder2]

Laurie,

Based on your question and many similar questions, I created a new thread:

Connecting The HR20 to Multiple TVs (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?p=783711)

The HR20 has multiple outputs that are all on at the same time. The one-page guide tells how to connect multiple TV's to one HR20. It also suggests the how to get the best picture quality.

In addition, steps are given to set up an RF Modulator to broadcast through a home's antenna cabling.

Specific Wiring diagrams and sample part numbers are included.

-Craig

[Milominderbinder2]

Version 1.1 is released with many updates and additions.

- Craig

[TimGoodwin]

What Multi Switch are they using with the 5lnb dish now?

[jimmyt]

zinwell wb68 - requires no external power and has worked well for me

[turls]

Great list. I found one thing that I always try to remember to talk to the installation company about when they call me before the install. Many installers carry cell phones that don't work in rural areas. They need to be reminded to make their call ahead of time while they still have network coverage--usually if they are coming by interstate highway if they make the call right before they get off the interstate they are ok.

This also causes problems when they need to make their calls during the install, I don't know why these companies are allowed to have installers on jobs in areas where they don't have cell coverage. And it also never ceases to amaze me that they don't realize they won't have coverage when they get to my house . . .

[wolfonthehill]

Nice list - one question.

I'm about a month away from installing an HR20 with a new 50" plasma & new A/V equipment to go along with it. I've been working under the assumption that I'd use HDMI outputs from the HR20 and an upconverting DVD player into my receiver, then output HDMI from the receiver to my TV. As long as the HDMI works properly, is there a performance advantage to using component video instead?

Thanks...

[Milominderbinder2]

Nice list - one question.

I'm about a month away from installing an HR20 with a new 50" plasma & new A/V equipment to go along with it. I've been working under the assumption that I'd use HDMI outputs from the HR20 and an upconverting DVD player into my receiver, then output HDMI from the receiver to my TV. As long as the HDMI works properly, is there a performance advantage to using component video instead?

Thanks...

Check out the FAQs link below, Installation Tips, etc. In the Site Survey, we seemed to have found kisses of death for the HR20:

EDIT: Note most of these have now been mostly corrected...

So make sure you get all new cables from dish to box, etc.

- Craig

[fjcastro]

I have my HR 20 installation scheduled for tomorrow between 8 am - noon. Connect TV is the installer. I live in the San Francisco Bay Area and was given a (310) area code (Los Angeles) for the installer. When I called Connect TV to get the name of the local installer that will be doing the job, I was told by Connect TV that they are not authorized to give out the installer's number. Is this true? Do I need to raise this issue with D* today? Secondly, what is the purpose of the four new RG6 lines from the dish? Thanks for your help.

[finaldiet]

I had an install last week of two HR20s by DTV company truck. He left old mast on roof, but left old dish on ground, said that was the way he's supposed to do it. He did not replace old lines as he said they were ok. Have had no problems with tvs. Also , I have only 2 tvs but may install another, but he did not install a multi-switch. Should I call and ask for new cables and multui-switch? BTW, none of the lines were changed from the new dish to my tvs.

[HDTVsportsfan]

If you only have 2 HR20's for a total of 4 tuners, you only need four cable runs. 2 to each receiver. D* probably won't give you a multi-switch until the time comes you have a requiremnet for more connections/add receivers.
If the existing cable is within spec, has been working and still is working, there is no need to replace it. They're not going to replace just for the check of it. IMO

[Drew2k]

I'm surprised that HDMI is still listed as "bad" for the TV connection type, because I thought I read other threads that said it's not really a factor?

Anyway, I'm not sure where to find the answer to my question about the first time I plug in my HR20, which hopefully will be in a few days (March 7):

What can I expect regarding the software version?

Will the box automatically detect it has an old version and download the newest, or do I have to initiate this download?

Also, does the box have to be activated using whatever old version is on it before it can get a new version?

Or does it download the newest version and reboot before activation is completed?

Given the above questions, what should the final order be at first time setup:

Connect HR20 to TV/AV system
Plug in satellite lines
Plug in power
Activate Receiver (move this step down?)
Force download (or) Wait for new software to be downloaded (move this step up?)
Confirm local channels are activated
Confirm premium channels are activated
Confirm DVR service is activated (is this necessary? it was on the HR10)
Review sat signal strength on all 5 sats

Anything I'm missing?

Also, how long should the first "setup" take, assuming it needs to download a new version?

Thanks.

UPDATE: See answers in this thread: http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=81277

[wolfonthehill]

So in all the discussions about HDMI vs component, there's no mention of one factor that I need to know before the install:

What cables will be provided by DTV & the installer? Will they give me component video cables? An HDMI cable? I need to know what cabling to buy ahead of time to ensure that I don't have to make a special trip out to a local "take my money, please!" store, and to ensure that I don't buy cables I don't need.

Thanks...

[Drew2k]

So in all the discussions about HDMI vs component, there's no mention of one factor that I need to know before the install:

What cables will be provided by DTV & the installer? Will they give me component video cables? An HDMI cable? I need to know what cabling to buy ahead of time to ensure that I don't have to make a special trip out to a local "take my money, please!" store, and to ensure that I don't buy cables I don't need.

Thanks...There's a thread in one of the HR20 forums here where the poll shows more than half of the respondents got an HDMI cable in the box, but a lot of people didn't. (PC Magazine ran a review of the HR20 and they reported that they didn't get an HDMI cable with their box.)

I would buy any cables you need in advance from a store that has a no-restocking-fee return policy, see what you get in the box when the HR20 is installed, and then return any cables you don't need.

If you want to use component cables and they do come in the box, chances are the cables YOU buy will be better than the supplied cables anyway, so you may want to use your own.

[wolfonthehill]

^ Thanks for the response - I just ordered 2 three-foot cables online, and got a very nice deal on them. I'm certain they'll be better than whatever comes with it, if anything does.

I'm still amazed that Oppo includes a VERY large-diameter, gold-connector, 6-foot HDMI cable with their upconverting DVD players. That's customer focus.

[Steve Robertson]

I got a HDMI cable with my 2 boxes. Didn't need them but I got them.

I also got the latest software update as well.

[robotman]

I called DirecTV and spent over an hour trying to negotiate a price for the HR20.

They gave me $100 off ($199 for lease option) and then $10 off/month for my service for the next year. The first guy I talked to said I could order 2 R20's, but the 2nd lady said they were only allowed to sell one per customer. (???) So I just got the one for now. Probably better to try out...

A question came up about cabling...

The 2nd tech said that I need a special type of cable from the new muti-switch to the unit? (one cable is for mpeg4 HD, one cable for SD?) Currently I have SD DirecTiVo with two new RG6 lines going in. Is there a different type of cable that the installer needs to run? I just remodelled, so this is a big bummer since all the existing cable is hidden in the walls.

I also didn't understand in the "Installation" guide why it says to get FOUR new cable runs?

Can someone please help me understand the cabling from the dish to the R20?!

Thanks.

John

[stogie5150]

I called DirecTV and spent over an hour trying to negotiate a price for the HR20.

They gave me $100 off ($199 for lease option) and then $10 off/month for my service for the next year. The first guy I talked to said I could order 2 R20's, but the 2nd lady said they were only allowed to sell one per customer. (???) So I just got the one for now. Probably better to try out...

A question came up about cabling...

The 2nd tech said that I need a special type of cable from the new muti-switch to the unit? (one cable is for mpeg4 HD, one cable for SD?) Currently I have SD DirecTiVo with two new RG6 lines going in. Is there a different type of cable that the installer needs to run? I just remodelled, so this is a big bummer since all the existing cable is hidden in the walls.

I also didn't understand in the "Installation" guide why it says to get FOUR new cable runs?

Can someone please help me understand the cabling from the dish to the R20?!

Thanks.

John

I think what the tech was trying to tell you is that you're going to need TWO cables to each HR20. That is until the FTM module gets adopted, which is a ways off, I would guess. Some of us are beta testing the FTM module right now...look in the Cutting Edge room for more details. Right now, you are going to need a multiswitch to feed more than two hr20's....without a multiswitch the maximum recievers you can feed is two dual tuner recievers, or four single tuner recievers...no special cable for MPEG4 that I know of....

someone will come along with more info I am sure...

[carl6]

A question came up about cabling...

The 2nd tech said that I need a special type of cable from the new muti-switch to the unit? (one cable is for mpeg4 HD, one cable for SD?) Currently I have SD DirecTiVo with two new RG6 lines going in. Is there a different type of cable that the installer needs to run? I just remodelled, so this is a big bummer since all the existing cable is hidden in the walls.

Can someone please help me understand the cabling from the dish to the R20?!

Thanks.

John

The 5-LNB dish (which you need for use with the HR20) has four outputs. If your total tuner requirement does not exceed four, then you can wire directly to the dish. For a DVR, you need two coax lines, one for each tuner. For non DVR receivers, you need one line.

If your total tuner requirement is more than four, then you need a multiswitch. If this is the case, you need four coax cables from the dish to the inputs of the multiswitch. Then you run coax from the outputs of the multiswitch to each tuner.

Carl

[robotman]

Phew... thanks for the clarication on the "different" cable. Not sure what the tech was referring to, but it sounds like I can just keep the two RG6 lines I have running to each unit.

I have 5 units (2 tuners each = 10 tuners total) and have it wired currently with 3x4 multi on th dish (for 2 runs + 2 to the next multi) which then cascades into a 4x8 multi (for 8 more runs). How would this work with the HR20?

[Decosse]

Hi Newb here - thanks for all the great info - wish I'd discovered it before the install (which was yesterday).
Although I asked several times, installer kept telling me I didn't need new cables - I should have insisted I guess. Will I have recourse to get these done after the fact, since I believe it was part of original work order? I'm not sure it is/will cause any issues but it was supposeed to be done I think)
Already had problems within hours of installer departure - one of the tuners dies. (It is always tuner 1) - all the transponder signals go to zero. If I reboot it will re-initialize with both tuners working for a while (an hour or so max) but then soon will return to that same tuner failing again.
There was no problem with D* support (other than the frustrating part of being forced through their pre-recorded 'suggestion' guide) - I told him my diagnostic procedure (including swapping input cables at back of receiver - problem remains with tuner 1) and he agreed to send me another receiver. I said I expected this would be new since I had not even completed a day of service & he assured me it would be - however I see other reports that it will almost certainly be a refurbished unit - which is totally unacceptable in the circumstances.
If a refurb comes, what is my recourse & chance of satsifactory resolution? I think the disconnnect card is gone since I effectively committed by accepting the new service for minimum period?

[Milominderbinder2]

Although I asked several times, installer kept telling me I didn't need new cables...Already had problems within hours of installer departure - one of the tuners dies. (It is always tuner 1) - all the transponder signals go to zero...
You got a bad install. It may very well not be the receiver. On the Installation Tips (http://tinyurl.com/yb7fvj), call the 800 number and demand to be installed correctly.

So many times, one unit after another makes no difference. You can try the new (old) one to see if it is better. The unit is just one link in the system.

- Craig

[Decosse]

You got a bad install. It may very well not be the receiver. On the Installation Tips, call the 800 number and demand to be installed correcctly.

So many times, one unit after another makes no difference. YOu can try the new (old) one to see if it is better. The unit is just one link in the system.

- Craig

No, replacement is functioning perfectly (after some completely unrelated trials & tribulations with getting my de-activation/re-activation & HD programming reinstated). It has been flawless since Friday - early days maybe, but the prior receiver wouldn't run for an hour without tuner 1 dropping out - regardless of swapping the input cables, problem would remain on Tuner 1. (when problem occurred ALL transponders on Tuner 1 would report zero)
Therefor I was quite confident the issue with the tuner was with the receiver itself given the diagnositics I described

My question to cables was unrelated to the issue but from a general performance perspective. The picture performance appears quite stellar to me (& most transponders are reporting on screen in the high 80's & 90's), so I imagine therefor it was not strictly necessary to replace my cables (although I could have insisted since it was committed). Even the original tuner had good performance - even the one tuner that died was fine until it would go off; Tuner 2 would remain excellent.
The exception in performance being my local NBC - I was curious as to why that was different but picked up a thread in search on D* forum from other local cuctomers in my area experiencing the same problem.

[Milominderbinder2]

The Installation Tips are updated again.

Remember: DIRECTV should do your installation for free with new cables up to 125 feet for free. It is a part of what you are paying for.

Sometime problems with the HR20 were not with the HR20 at all. It was a poor installation.

Follow the steps in the pdf and you can reduce the chance of problems in many areas.

Good luck!

- Craig

[pault2727]

Does anyone know the physical size of the mounting bracket for the Slimline Dish? I have a dedicated mounting area on the side of my vinyl sided house where my current Phase III dish is now mounted. There is extra space on all sides of my current dish mount and I need to know if the Slimline dish will fit inside that space.

[davring]

Does anyone know the physical size of the mounting bracket for the Slimline Dish? I have a dedicated mounting area on the side of my vinyl sided house where my current Phase III dish is now mounted. There is extra space on all sides of my current dish mount and I need to know if the Slimline dish will fit inside that space.

9 in high x 6 in wide

[Milominderbinder2]

Here is the manual for the SlimLine Dish (http://www.solidsignal.com/manuals/Slimline_Dish_Installation_Manual.pdf) and the on-line Video Instructions (http://www.solidsignal.com/dtvkuka/).

I have added those links to the HR20 FAQ (http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=76617).

I would always urge you to have a qualified professional install your dish to make sure of the installation, in particular the grounding.

- Craig

[stiffi]

Hello,

I have an install for an HR20 and 5 LNB dish on Sunday. I have done some crazy re-wiring of my house to allow several TV's to share a receiver and I'm terrified the installer might cause problems. I was hoping somebody could answer what it will take to get the new dish.

Here's my setup as done by a previous DTV install:

3 LNB Dish, with a standard multiswitch. I have 4 lines coming into the basement, at which point they are connected to some sort of "bridge" where 4 coax connecters lead to 4 lines out to my various Tvs. 2 go to my HR10-250, the other 1 goes to the bedroom, and 1 I have in to a 3rd receiver, sits right below the bridge, and outputs to 3 different tvs.

My real question is this. Assuming they can use the same lines on the roof, (with a 6 x 8 multiswitch on the order), can everything remain pretty much the same in the basement? It seems to me it can, with me having to do little more than pull the wires out the back of my HR10-250, and putting them right into the HR20.

Any thoughts?

thanks.

[anubys]

I'm putting an HR20 next to an HR10-250...I only have one antenna cable...can I just split that cable so I can have an antenna line to each unit or do I have to get something more sophisticated?

[Michael D'Angelo]

I'm putting an HR20 next to an HR10-250...I only have one antenna cable...can I just split that cable so I can have an antenna line to each unit or do I have to get something more sophisticated?

Yes you can split the antenna cable. Your signal will probably drop a little but you can split the cable.

[anubys]

Yes you can split the antenna cable. Your signal will probably drop a little but you can split the cable.

Thanks...that's what I thought...the installer kept insisting that it's not possible and that it would not work...

I forced him to use a splitter...sure enough, it didn't work and I had to eat my words...then I checked his connection and found that he had connected the cable to the wrong connection (rf antenna, not the atsc antenna input)...

fixed the connection and everything works fine...

[Milominderbinder2]

I'm putting an HR20 next to an HR10-250...I only have one antenna cable...can I just split that cable so I can have an antenna line to each unit or do I have to get something more sophisticated?
Splitters take at least 3.5 dB. The ones form Home Depot, etc. are so bad they are not even rated.

A powered Distribution Amp may be a better choice.

The best source I know of for all of the amps (http://www.solidsignal.com/cat_display.asp?main_cat=03&CAT=Amplifiers), splitters (http://www.solidsignal.com/cat_display.asp?main_cat=03&CAT=Splitters), and antennas (http://www.solidsignal.com/cat_display.asp?main_cat=03&CAT=TV%20Antennas) is Solid Signal (http://www.solidsignal.com/). Their prices are great and they ship almost instantly. They will also talk you through gettingexactly the right equipment if you call them at: 866-374-4625.

- Craig

[anubys]

Splitters take at least 3.5 dB. The ones form Home Depot, etc. are so bad they are not even rated.

yep...the one I have is rated at 3.5...still have perfect picture so I'm not worried...

summary of installation: installer insisted that they are only allowed to connect the HR20 via component. He said a lot of people have trouble getting locals off the SAT from HDMI and his supervisor has ordered him to only connect via component...I just laughed at him and connected it through HDMI...he kept telling me "it's your responsibility" if it doesn't work and that a service call would come out of his pocket...

so be on the lookout...seems at least one company in Northern VA is doing this!

RG-6 lines were connected through a "filter" of some sort then to the HR20...don't know what that is for...

installer says he's been installing HR20s for a year (!) and I'm the first one who demanded connecting an OTA line...as I said above, he didn't even know where the ATSC input was...

[jpoet]

I have read that the slimline bracket size is 9 inches by 6 inches. If mounting to wood, how long are the screws?

Thanks,

John

[jimmyt]

john, I used 2.5" lag screws - no problems

[jpoet]

john, I used 2.5" lag screws - no problems

That's what I needed to know.

Thanks,

John

[ozark]

Yes, talked myself into getting the HR-20. Had a conversation the Direct CR concering the Football ST plus Superfan, got the deal I wanted (very good) , than asked about the upgrade from my HR10. So, got it for S&H and will be installed tomorrow morning.
Very happy with the football cost and just the shipping is OK. NOW, will the HR20 work or be a nightmare !

[davidmg1]

My installer came today, but had to reschedule because he didn't have a tall enough ladder to reach the top of my two-story roof. No biggie, I can wait a few more days.

But the question I have is the installer brought with him a HR20-100. He says that is all they have in their warehouse.

Should I take a 100 when he comes back or should I try to get a 700?

Is there a major difference? I want to use the esata feature in the future.

Thanks!

[Michael D'Angelo]

My installer came today, but had to reschedule because he didn't have a tall enough ladder to reach the top of my two-story roof. No biggie, I can wait a few more days.

But the question I have is the installer brought with him a HR20-100. He says that is all they have in their warehouse.

Should I take a 100 when he comes back or should I try to get a 700?

Is there a major difference? I want to use the esata feature in the future.

Thanks!

There is no real difference in the two. It does not really matter what one you get. As of right now the -700 gets newer software first but they will probably start getting them at the same time at some point. The -100 lately has only been about a week behind getting the newer software. The -100 does have a digital coaxial connection that the -700 does not.

[davidmg1]

There is no real difference in the two. It does not really matter what one you get. As of right now the -700 gets newer software first but they will probably start getting them at the same time at some point. The -100 lately has only been about a week behind getting the newer software. The -100 does have a digital coaxial connection that the -700 does not.

Thanks for clearing that up!

[Milominderbinder2]

Few report any real differences between the -100 and -700.

The biggest issues relate to how you set up your installation. Please see the Installation Tips below.

- Craig

[kingram52]

Im having a Hr20 and a 5 lnb dish installed .I currently have a 3 lnb dish

My question:Is it best to take down the 3 LNB or leave it up and use both.
In one room I have a HDTV and a HR20 DVR and in another I have a standard tv with a DVR

thanks

[Michael D'Angelo]

Im having a Hr20 and a 5 lnb dish installed .I currently have a 3 lnb dish

My question:Is it best to take down the 3 LNB or leave it up and use both.
In one room I have a HDTV and a HR20 DVR and in another I have a standard tv with a DVR

thanks

:welcome_s to DBStalk

The 5 LNB dish has 4 lines from it just like the 3 LNB dish does. I would take down the 3 LNB dish after the new 5 LNB dish is installed and only use the one dish. Your SD DVR will work perfect with the new dish.

[amcdan]

Getting an HR20 and one of the standard definition DVRs installed next week. I've read through this thread as well as the Installation Tips PDF, but still have a couple of questions:

1. "Make sure they install 4 new RG-6 wires..."

My install will be at a newly constructed house and I had cabling run to the 2 rooms that will have the receivers. Will those already be RG-6?

2. "Verify that they will install a Zinwell 6x8 Multi-Switch..."

With 4 tuners total between the 2 units, will I need a multi-switch?


I have a feeling I might be confused and maybe asking the wrong thing with both questions. But these forums have been great for information and feedback.

Thanks.

[Milominderbinder2]

amcdan,

Hopefully you have RG6. The wire is labeled on the side.

You do not need a multiswitch unless you have more than 4 tuners. That's tuners, not receivers. The HR20 Receiver has 2 Satellite tuners.

- Craig

[cartrivision]

Few report any real differences between the -100 and -700.

- Craig

Is the 100 the "newer" model? Also from Earl's review pictures of inside both receivers, his 700 had a 300GB disk and the 100 had a 320GB disk. Do all 700s have the smaller disk and all 100 have the bigger disk?

[Bulldog08]

Hi Newbie here. It is amazing how much information is available. My hr10-250 kept freezing up lately when threatening skies or a bit (sprinkles) of rain would come. I called D* and we talked and determined that I will need a hr20 anyway since the hr10 won't be receiving new HD channels come Sept. the box arrived the next morning, but I am a bit unsure what needs to be done to install the hr20 it is a refurbished model (hr20-100). can i just swap out the cables from the hr10 and install on the hr20 and just power it up? i would guess that the software isn't updated on the hr20. what do i need to do to get it completely updated and ready to roll? I have a hr20-700 on one tv and notice that it reboots on its own on occasion. should i be concerned?

[anubys]

Hi Newbie here. It is amazing how much information is available. My hr10-250 kept freezing up lately when threatening skies or a bit (sprinkles) of rain would come. I called D* and we talked and determined that I will need a hr20 anyway since the hr10 won't be receiving new HD channels come Sept. the box arrived the next morning, but I am a bit unsure what needs to be done to install the hr20 it is a refurbished model (hr20-100). can i just swap out the cables from the hr10 and install on the hr20 and just power it up? i would guess that the software isn't updated on the hr20. what do i need to do to get it completely updated and ready to roll? I have a hr20-700 on one tv and notice that it reboots on its own on occasion. should i be concerned?

do you know if you have a multi-switch? did you get the new 5-lnb dish? you won't see the new sats that will broadcast the new HD channels unless you have a new dish...you don't need a multi-switch if you only have 1 receiver...

right now, you should be able to just connect the cables from the HR10 to the HR20 and be good to go (the unit will download the latest software version in the next couple of days and install it)...but you will need - at a minimum - the new 5 lnb dish to get the new HD channels in september...

[Bulldog08]

do you know if you have a multi-switch? did you get the new 5-lnb dish? you won't see the new sats that will broadcast the new HD channels unless you have a new dish...you don't need a multi-switch if you only have 1 receiver...

right now, you should be able to just connect the cables from the HR10 to the HR20 and be good to go (the unit will download the latest software version in the next couple of days and install it)...but you will need - at a minimum - the new 5 lnb dish to get the new HD channels in september...

Yes, I have the 5lnb dish. I had that all installed last November when I moved into this house, which is 8 years old. I know that the installer used the existing outlets for each receiver, and when he needed two cables for each DVR I have (2) there was an outlet close enough to run a cable from it to connect to the DVR's. Yes, I have a Zinwell 6x8 multi-switch.
Like I said before there is so much information on here, I hope I am not missing anything else.

[Michael D'Angelo]

Hi Newbie here. It is amazing how much information is available. My hr10-250 kept freezing up lately when threatening skies or a bit (sprinkles) of rain would come. I called D* and we talked and determined that I will need a hr20 anyway since the hr10 won't be receiving new HD channels come Sept. the box arrived the next morning, but I am a bit unsure what needs to be done to install the hr20 it is a refurbished model (hr20-100). can i just swap out the cables from the hr10 and install on the hr20 and just power it up? i would guess that the software isn't updated on the hr20. what do i need to do to get it completely updated and ready to roll? I have a hr20-700 on one tv and notice that it reboots on its own on occasion. should i be concerned?

Just take the 2 lines that are going to the HR10-250 and connect them to the HR20 with the BBC's in between the SAT lines and the HR20. Plug it in and go through the satellite setup. Make sure you select 5 LNB dish. After it is up and running for about 10 minutes it will reset by itself and start downloading the newest software which is 0x17e.

[Bulldog08]

Just take the 2 lines that are going to the HR10-250 and connect them to the HR20 with the BBC's in between the SAT lines and the HR20. Plug it in and go through the satellite setup. Make sure you select 5 LNB dish. After it is up and running for about 10 minutes it will reset by itself and start downloading the newest software which is 0x17e.

Thanks Mike. Go RAVENS

[Michael D'Angelo]

Thanks Mike. Go RAVENS

BTW :welcome_s to DBSTalk and yes GO RAVENS

[Milominderbinder2]

Is the 100 the "newer" model? Also from Earl's review pictures of inside both receivers, his 700 had a 300GB disk and the 100 had a 320GB disk. Do all 700s have the smaller disk and all 100 have the bigger disk?
I think that they are both still in the distribution stream. The -700 has the RF antenna built in. Both are 320 GB.

- Craig

[Milominderbinder2]

Hi Newbie here. It is amazing how much information is available. My hr10-250 kept freezing up lately when threatening skies or a bit (sprinkles) of rain would come. I called D* and we talked and determined that I will need a hr20 anyway since the hr10 won't be receiving new HD channels come Sept. the box arrived the next morning, but I am a bit unsure what needs to be done to install the hr20 it is a refurbished model (hr20-100). can i just swap out the cables from the hr10 and install on the hr20 and just power it up? i would guess that the software isn't updated on the hr20. what do i need to do to get it completely updated and ready to roll? I have a hr20-700 on one tv and notice that it reboots on its own on occasion. should i be concerned?
Please take a look at the Installation Tips and Tricks (http://tinyurl.com/yb7fvj) to make sure that everything is good. Little things that were no problem before may become big issues now.

- Craig

[bohlke]

two years ago when I got my HR10-250 the installer came out and got me working even though I only had one RG6 cable in the basement to my TV. He used a diplexer to combine a few cables and all seemed ok. Is this a possible solution for the HR20?

[sbl]

I can't imagine what the installer did unless it was to combine an OTA antenna with the satellite signal. I doubt he installed a stacker, as those are expensive (and don't work with the HR10 anyway).

You need two cables - at least until SWM becomes available (see the Cutting Edge forum section for details on that.)

[Tubaman-Z]

I am a long-time DirecTV subscriber (since 1994) and a big fan of the DirecTiVos. I am also a fairly new owner of a rear-projection HDTV and so am looking at the HR20. I currently have 3 in-service DirecTiVos that I own. Since the DirecTV change to leased vs for-sale systems, has anyone had problems with ordering the HR20 and having their existing, owned systems inadvertantly "converted" to leased? (This seemed relevant to install questions, hence my post here.)

Awesome job on the installation checklist. I guess I'll be losing the quad-shielded co-ax that I pulled a couple of years ago. :rolleyes:

When I checked out the DirecTV site, it looked like it was going to cost me $299 for the HR20 plus install. In reading the posts here it seems like others have negotiated deals ranging from $0 to $199. Is there a special number at DirecTV to call or a magic phrase to use? (or another dbstalk forum to look in....)

Thanks!

[DawgLink]

Tuba, if you are a Sunday Ticket purchaser, use that as a leverage tool. I did and it worked like a charm. Say you may need to cancel it due to the high price of the $299 DVR

[bohlke]

I can't imagine what the installer did unless it was to combine an OTA antenna with the satellite signal. I doubt he installed a stacker, as those are expensive (and don't work with the HR10 anyway).

You need two cables - at least until SWM becomes available (see the Cutting Edge forum section for details on that.)

Now that I think about it I will have to look as I cant remember if I had two or one cable. This issue was getting OTA and the two SAT connections to work. The passive diplexer had a bunch of loss so I will need to figure all of that out here soon.

[Milominderbinder2]

I am a long-time DirecTV subscriber (since 1994) and a big fan of the DirecTiVos. I am also a fairly new owner of a rear-projection HDTV and so am looking at the HR20. I currently have 3 in-service DirecTiVos that I own. Since the DirecTV change to leased vs for-sale systems, has anyone had problems with ordering the HR20 and having their existing, owned systems inadvertantly "converted" to leased? (This seemed relevant to install questions, hence my post here.)
The new HR20 should not affect your old TiVo contracts.
- Craig

[ThatJones]

I am planning on signing up for DirecTV service this fall to get ST. I would like an HR20 and a slimline dish. I was wondering if most new installs these days automatically get a slimline dish? Will the installer let you install the dish yourself when they come out to your house?

I live in a split-level home with a spanish tile roof. Due to the position of my house, the only place to put the dish is on the side of the house, between the two roofs at the split level. Thus, to do the install, you would be on the lower roof, installing it on the side of the house that extends up to the higher roof.

I am worried about the installer breaking the spanish tiles while walking on the roof, as I have heard that these tiles can be slightly fragile if not stepped on properly. I have thought about buying a dish on ebay and doing the dish install pre-ordering, but I don't want to pay $70 for something I can get for free by signing up. Does anyone have experience with spanish tile roofs? Am I being overly cautious????

[Milominderbinder2]

I am planning on signing up for DIRECTV service this fall to get ST. I would like an HR20 and a slimline dish. I was wondering if most new installs these days automatically get a slimline dish?
Yes.
Will the installer let you install the dish yourself when they come out to your house?
They aren't supposed to.
I am worried about the installer breaking the Spanish tiles while walking on the roof, as I have heard that these tiles can be slightly fragile if not stepped on properly.
Call the special number in the Installation Tips and ask about your case.
I have thought about buying a dish on eBay and doing the dish install pre-ordering, but I don't want to pay $70 for something I can get for free by signing up. Does anyone have experience with Spanish tile roofs? Am I being overly cautious????
Solidsignal.com is way better. But call the special number first. Spanish tile can be weak from day one depending on the tile and the installation.

- Craig

- Craig

[amcdan]

From the PDF: "If the HR20 is bad, it should be replaced on the spot. Do not accept a bad receiver or dish."

Either I was told something wrong, or the tips document may need to be updated. I had my install last week. With my HD-DVR receiver, the video for the HD "cable" channels (those in the 70s - ESPN, DSC, etc.) was fine. But the audio was very distorted. But according to the tech, because the receiver was already activated, he was not allowed to give me a different receiver from his van.

Can you even test the receivers without activating them? I basically never had a chance to get a replacement on the spot even though the thing has never worked. Supposed to get the new one via fedex in the next day or two.

[Milominderbinder2]

From the PDF: "If the HR20 is bad, it should be replaced on the spot. Do not accept a bad receiver or dish."

Either I was told something wrong, or the tips document may need to be updated. I had my install last week. With my HD-DVR receiver, the video for the HD "cable" channels (those in the 70s - ESPN, DSC, etc.) was fine. But the audio was very distorted. But according to the tech, because the receiver was already activated, he was not allowed to give me a different receiver from his van.

Can you even test the receivers without activating them? I basically never had a chance to get a replacement on the spot even though the thing has never worked. Supposed to get the new one via fedex in the next day or two.
We have multiple cases where the installation hotline instructed the installer to swap out on the spot.

It sounds like maybe you did not call the DIRECTV hotline while the installer was there?

- Craig

[amcdan]

We have multiple cases where the installation hotline instructed the installer to swap out on the spot.

It sounds like maybe you did not call the DIRECTV hotline while the installer was there?

- CraigNo, I did not call while he was there. Mistakenly took his word for it since he was professional and seemed to know what he was talking about. How can these things so commonly not work right out of the box? Not exactly off to a spectacular start with D*.

[Milominderbinder2]

amcdan,

I have had very few problems with my HR20. Since I have had it they have added 24 features.

- Craig

[M3 Pete]

If the existing cable is within spec, has been working and still is working, there is no need to replace it. They're not going to replace just for the check of it. IMOI have RG6 cables that have been installed within the last three years. They were a major PITA to install since they had to be fished through the interior walls of my multistory townhouse (condo). During one of my previous installs, they refused to do the wire fishing without being paid extra, they said with a typical install they will penetrate an exterior wall and that's about it, fishing wire down through two stories of walls and under the house into the living room was beyond the scope of a typical install.

Anyway, I'm assuming that with the age of these cables they will be OK for my upcoming HR20 install.

[amcdan]

amcdan,

I have had very few problems with my HR20. Since I have had it they have added 24 features.

- CraigOh how I wish I could say the same. And it's weird because I had an old Tivo receiver and a standard box with D* at a prior house and never had a single problem with either one.

Unfortunately, I'm still waiting on high def. The replacement they sent me for the original HR20 that did not work is in even worse shape. It won't even get through the set up. So I went through the process of deactivating the original, activating the replacement and then deactivating the replacement and reactivating the original all while waiting on a second replacement. :nono:

The replacement was a refurb, so maybe that's why it got sent back the first time. :nono2:

And all of that seems to have screwed up my account because I've had to call 3-4 times in the last couple of days because I keep getting error messages that a reset won't fix.

[Goober]

First, let me thank you all for what has been an amazing amount of help.

Here's the latest install story from my end. Took about 2 weeks for the local installer to be able to set us up (Chesapeake, VA - think Norfolk metro for those unfamiliar). It was the first available date (last Tues), and according to my installer they're swamped. As many had suggested, I took an AM (8-12) install time. Good thing - more later. Our tech calls about 8:15 and says he is about 15 mins out. He shows up pretty much on the mark and immediately starts the walkaround survey (antenna placement, cable runs, line-of-sight, etc.). I had expected to have the mount put at the far end of our house due to a tree line, but using his inclinometer he found that my preferred location at the near end would actually be fine for "many, many years." I had done a rough estimate that placed the satellites just above the tops, but this was not the case; and we were well clear of the trees.

I really didn't want any type of roof mount. Our house is brand new, and the thought of tapping holes in a brand new roof didn't much appeal to us. We walked across the street on at least 5 or 6 occasions to take measurements off a house that is still under construction that is the same model/floor plan as ours. We found a window header with plenty of available studs that we could use, and after many multi-measurements (the old measure twice, cut once school) he was starting the mounting process. As I have mentioned in another thread, he put all 6 lag bolts into the studs and attached both monopoles.

Once he got the reflector and LNBs set, he used two separate meters to perform the alignment to ensure he got a true peak signal. Actually, I was pretty impressed with the amount of time he spent dialing in the settings. He wasn't in a slap-it-up-there hurry. He routed the lines down, tucked in next to our gutter downspout and zip-tied them in place. Once at the bottom, he tucked all the cabling up under the siding so that it wasn't visible until it needed to come out for mounting at the grounding block. He grounded everything to an existing ground line, and tapped one hole in the bottom portion of our siding (cleaner than our original construction entry for our phone/cable) and passed the lines in. A generous amount of RTV silicone sealed everything up again.

Once inside the garage, he routed the lines exactly as I asked to our smartbox to join our distribution lines with barrel connections. He was familiar with the upcoming SWM, so he mounted everything to make easy work of mounting an SWM since I elected not to have an extra line dropped for our HR-20 in the living room. About this time, the Quality Control guy showed up. He'd not done any QC checks on this tech's jobs before, but after walking around the job outside he immediately complimented him on the clean, neat install. I told him I was extremely pleased so far, and he said he would note it on the QC form.

About this time, the tech was testing the lines and found a fault on one. Our house was prewired for cable w/ RG-6 to all rooms, but one room that was getting a box apparently had a line with a staple through the shielding (or some issue that was causing a fault on the meter). Not only did the tech climb up in my attic, but the QC guy went with him to help. They spent probably a good 45 mins up there searching through blown insulation to find the line with the problem, cut and compression connected the line where it entered the attic and tested it again (that portion tested good). They then tested and found the portion that dropped down into the room's wall was the bad section, ran a new line and put all the pieces together again (all tested good after this).

With all lines set, the tech went through the tortuous process of getting D* to authorize the boxes. He got disconnected...and again...and again... You get the idea. Anyway, finally all were up and running. As to the time spent peaking the signal earlier, virtually every transponder was 98, 99, or 100. Spot on.

Did D* want to charge for the install - no. Did he ask for anything extra - no. Did I tip the guy - oh, you bet I did. I was the morning install. He left at almost 4:30 that afternoon. Far and away the best, most professional install of any service of any type we've every experienced. The tech - a retired Navy electronics technician. The company - Mastec. After all the bad stories I'd read about folks having issues with Mastec, I wasn't optimistic when I saw the D* van with Mastec below it. Not the case at all. It's like anywhere else - it depends on the person at the counter as to how well the service will be.

Loving the D* life so far, and we have no plans to go back to CATV. Rock on, HundredNation.

[Stlrmike]

First and foremost, thank you for a wonderful site with many, many good tips! I have had TIVO for many years and have been waiting in the shadows for most of the bugs to be worked out of the HD DVR's before taking the next step. I have decided to give it a shot and have scheduled an appt. for two weeks out to have the HR20-100 installed with new 5LNB dish. I have printed off several tips that have been graciously provided on this site and plan to utilize them - regardless of my non-tech savvy abilities.

Is there anything new I should look for during the install or is what has been outlined in the install tips good enough? Thanks again for all of the good information provided by the users of this site!

~Mike

[Milominderbinder2]

Mike,

I think we are up to date.

- Craig

Here are the links:

[Stlrmike]

Thanks Craig!

[iancaterina]

The attached pdf file is a compilation of installation tips from dbstalk.com. Thank you to all who have offered your ideas.

Here are tips to make sure you have a great installation:

- The installer will be on time.
- The installer will have an extra box to swap out if the first fails.
- Your work order will included everything you needed.
- Your display will be beautiful.
- Your HD and local channels will work.
- It will record properly.
- Voltage dips & spikes will not harm your HR-20.
- Dolby® Digital 5.1 will work great!

See the UNOFFICIAL HR-20 Tips & Tricks link below for setup and using the HR20.

Also check out the TiVo to HR20 Survival Guide.

- Craig

History:
Version 1.2 5,021 Downloads
Version 1.1 439 Downloads
Version 1.0 2,469 Downloads


First of all, great job on this, really cool. I placed my upgrade order yesterday and called CIS this morning to confirm the appointment. I did confirm it, all through the automated prompts, however I was not able to talk to a real person. So, I haven't been able to get information on the installation company and verify the other steps. Should I call the regular DirecTV # instead of the CIS #?

Thanks,
Ian

[lunchpirate]

Long time lurker, first time poster. I just joined directv and am having the hr 20 installed. I work with compurters for a living, so I am familiar with the netorking end of things. What I want to know is what should I verify in terms of the install before signing off on the work order. I have seen the installation tips and have that checklist. I just didn't know with the advent of the new satellite if it would need to be amended. Also, how can I direct the installer to make sure that I have the best chance of good signal on the D11 when it launches.

[TominOH]

I'm receiving the Slimline dish on Tuesday. Is it possible to use the same mast where the 3lnb was installed? The mast is attached to the roof and I'd like to use the same one if possible.

thx,
Tom

[su_A_ve]

Thanks for the tips - The most useful for me was to call the morning to verify the install.

When I got to the local dispatch office, they verified the installer assigned was on his honeymoon. So they passed me to an installer that was not certified for HD, but a supervisor will be with him.

They did show up about 11am. I insisted on the dish being relocated to the back of the house. I also advised them on how to run the lines. They wanted to run lines thru the top of the roof and hook up to the old 3LNB dish and then down.

Lines would have to come in via the basement and 4 holes would have had to be drilled on the stucko. Installer wanted to drill a big hole (yeah right). So I drilled the holes for him while they installed the dish.

Then of course, I ran the lines inside, while they 'kinda wait' there. Eventually after running two of the four lines inside he decided to install the new multi switch.

They left the lines and multi switch all hanging and did not hook the lines up via the existing ground blocks (the lines they ran did have ground connectors though).

They were about to leave, when I said - you have to install the DVR. They tried to say I should have it already (all of this is the supervisor !!!). I referred him to the order, so he came back with an HR20. The unit was new (or seemed as it was still on it's protective bag) and box was already opened.

I unhooked the lines from the old DVR, run the HDMI cable and plugged it in. Then, remote was "missing". So the other installer got one from the truck.

Sup. did program the remote to turn power on the TV. That was it, and he asked for a 'soda'.

Needless to say, that's all he got. Lazy bum...

Oh, and the remote was a non-RF one... D* did shipped me a new one a day later though...

Now, I have to go back to seal the holes (I put grommets but had to ask for them) tighten up the lines a bit, hook them via the ground block, and eventually bring down the old dish.

[Lee L]

ANy chance someone can list all the test channels to be sure you are receiving everything since the new HD has started?

[Milominderbinder2]

...What I want to know is what should I verify in terms of the install before signing off on the work order...They will give you a checklist to sign off. You can ask to see it when he first gets there so that you can have ttime to read it.

- Craig

[Milominderbinder2]

I'm receiving the Slimline dish on Tuesday. Is it possible to use the same mast where the 3lnb was installed? They are both 2".

- Craig

[Milominderbinder2]

...I also advised them on how to run the lines...They were about to leave, when I said - you have to install the DVR....I referred him to the order, so he came back with an HR20...Now, I have to go back to seal the holes (I put grommets but had to ask for them) tighten up the lines a bit, hook them via the ground block, and eventually bring down the old dish.You need to report them. tell all they did. Demand at least a $100 credit.

I am so happy that you knew what they were supposed to do. Power to the people!

- Craig

[Milominderbinder2]

ANy chance someone can list all the test channels to be sure you are receiving everything since the new HD has started?
They have been at various time:
480
481
498
499
9300
9301

- Craig

[OldRick]

I had a new Slimline and a HR-20 installed Sat, and couldn't be more pleased.

The installer showed up at 12:15 for a "morning" appointment, but spent three hours running new RG-6 and getting the dish aligned.

Based on the Installation Tips document:

- I requested and got a -100, for the better heat dissipation,

- I pre-surveyed the wall attachment and realized that the Slimline mounting bracket is considerably larger than my 3-lnb mount, which was a problem due to the vinyl siding on my house. There was an inset thru the siding for the old dish, that just fit the old bracket.
I took the Slimline bracket, spent 20 minutes cutting it down with a hacksaw and drilled new holes, then spray-painted it against rust before he mounted it in the same location.

- I insisted that the installer use both of the outriggers, even though they both are on the same side of the dish - I figure that any type of triangulation of the mounts is going to add to strength and reduce dish motion in a gust of wind.

As to migrating from long-term TiVo to DTV dvr, it's a real ho-hummer, IMHO. Both do the same things in mostly the same ways. Differences that are noticeable to me include:

- The on-screen graphics on the DTV box are horrible - lousy use of color - the TiVo "look" is much nicer.

- I do miss the dual-buffer feature of the TiVo a lot - it's the only way to make local news tolerable (jumping between two stations at the same time). However, the NewsMix channel isn't too bad as a trade-off.

- I realized that people may like the TiVo because it "cares" what you think - I miss using the Thumbs-down button, even though it was useless - the DTV box doesn't care what you think about a show...

- I always hated the peanut remote, as its shape would allow it to twist in your hand while using it. The DTV remote seems much better to me, and has a little more flexibility in integrating TV, stereo, and DVR in one control. Both remotes reverse the function of Chan Up/Down, depending on whether you are watching live TV or the Guide - I've always found this to be stupid design.

So, I'm a happy camper - no issues so far, and a clean install. Now if those new HD channels would just start showing more new HD content...

[Scarpad]

I have a HD Upgrade happenning this saturday. I'll be getting either the H20 or 21. My LCD has both HDMI connections currently used for a HD-DVD player and an Apple TV. So I was going to see if I could hook the H20 up thru component. First is that possible, and second has anyone seen a huge picture difference between both inputs?

[jswilke]

Slimline Dish installation question: My present 3LNB dish is mounted with chimney mount kit (two metal straps around brick chimney with corner mount for dish mast). Is a chimney mount available for the larger mast required for replacement Slimeline 5 LNB dish mount? Thanks

[sjr14221]

Help! I am trying to access the hr20 installation tips, but when I click any of the links it says document no longer available!

I have an install on Saturday, and would like to have this pdf to refer to. TIA.

[sjr14221]

Help! I am trying to access the hr20 installation tips, but when I click any of the links it says document no longer available!

I have an install on Saturday, and would like to have this pdf to refer to. TIA.

Never mind - I was able to access by saving to disk first.

[Canis Lupus]

Many people report component looks every bit as good as HDMI, and in some instances, better. You should be fine.

I have a HD Upgrade happenning this saturday. I'll be getting either the H20 or 21. My LCD has both HDMI connections currently used for a HD-DVD player and an Apple TV. So I was going to see if I could hook the H20 up thru component. First is that possible, and second has anyone seen a huge picture difference between both inputs?

[Coffey77]

I clicked on the link for this pdf:

What are the basic steps I could take to insure a great installation?
→ Receiver-Installation-Tips.pdf

and got:
Invalid Attachment specified. If you followed a valid link, please notify the administrator

[JRich7911]

A friend had DirecTV installed yesterday. We told the installer we wanted the H20 but he said all he can get is the H21 (no OTA). He said if we could find an H20 he would install it. We couldn't find one by phone so he installed the H21. After he left we went to Circuit City and they had several H20's. We bought one there. Can we replace it ourselves? We plan to try to get D* to pay for it ($99).

[JRich7911]

A friend had DirecTV installed yesterday. We told the installer we wanted the H20 but he said all he can get is the H21 (no OTA). He said if we could find an H20 he would install it. We couldn't find one by phone so he installed the H21. After he left we went to Circuit City and they had several H20's. We bought one there. Can we replace it ourselves? We plan to try to get D* to pay for it ($99).

In case anybody is interested, you can do it yourself. We had to call D* and give them the receiver serial#, access card#, etc. After that everything came up and we have local HD channels through the OTA feature of the H20. Now we have to turn the H21 back in and get a refund. We'll report on the result of that effort later.

[Milominderbinder2]

A friend had DirecTV installed yesterday. We told the installer we wanted the H20 but he said all he can get is the H21 (no OTA). He said if we could find an H20 he would install it. We couldn't find one by phone so he installed the H21. After he left we went to Circuit City and they had several H20's. We bought one there. Can we replace it ourselves? We plan to try to get D* to pay for it ($99).For many, the bigger issue are that the H20 or H21 are not capable of:
1. Record
2. Pause
3. Replay
4. Video on Demand
5. Playing photos
6. Playing mpg3's
7. Playing videos

For this and so much more you need an HR20.

- Craig

[flipptyfloppity]

I would suggest the first post be updated in terms of OTA. It says you need an HR20 or H20 to get OTA, but it should also mention that the HR21 w/AM21 can do it (as well as HR22 w/AM21), as that is the common config now. It should also mention that the AM21 will not work with the H21.

[mookydaspooky]

Hi, I want to purchase the new HR23 receiver, but I have read that my Slingbox Pro will not work with the new HR23. Is this true, or will I have to wait until Slingbox gets onboard? Thanks!

[carl6]

Hi, I want to purchase the new HR23 receiver, but I have read that my Slingbox Pro will not work with the new HR23. Is this true, or will I have to wait until Slingbox gets onboard? Thanks!

I can think of no reason the Slingbox would not work with an HR23 specifically. I've got 3 Slingboxes and they all work on HR20, HR21, HR22, H21, R15, R16, and D11 (although not all at the same time of course).

[GraceBald]

HI

I would suggest the first post be updated in terms of OTA. It says you need an HR20 or H20 to get OTA, but it should also mention that the HR21 w/AM21 can do it (as well as HR22 w/AM21), as that is the common config now. It should also mention that the AM21 will not work with the H21 and it is really rocking....

staffingpower.com

sentersoftech.com

[dracozny]

HI

I would suggest the first post be updated in terms of OTA. It says you need an HR20 or H20 to get OTA, but it should also mention that the HR21 w/AM21 can do it (as well as HR22 w/AM21), as that is the common config now. It should also mention that the AM21 will not work with the H21 and it is really rocking....

staffingpower.com

sentersoftech.com

and also note that the AM21 is not provided by the technicians.

[ndole]

and also note that the AM21 is not provided by the technicians.

With HEAVY emphasis please,
Thank you Thank you Thank you!

[npudar]

I have what I think is a reasonably straightforward second DirecTV receiver installation, and I'd like to check if I'm thinking about it correctly.

My current setup:
Slimline Dish to a Zinwell wide-band 6x8 Multi-switch (WB68)
Two output lines running RG6/U coax from the WB68 connected through BBC Modules (SUP-2400) to the two inputs on a HR20-700 receiver

My plan:
Run two new lines from the available WB68 outputs to a second HR20 receiver in another room, also through BBC Modules.

My questions:
1) Is it just that simple?
2) Do I have to run two lines? (I'm under the impression that two lines allows recording of one channel while viewing another?)
3) How many BBC Modules come in the HR20 box? (My first one was installed by a DirecTV technician, so I don't remember.)
4) Is there anything else I should know about that I did not mention?

Thanks,
Nick

[faithhevans]

Instead of buying the Samsung why not just upgrade your dish-network equipment to an HD capable receiver, connect your attic antenna to it for OTA HD, run video to the display and audio to your receiver.

[TwoPhases]

Instead of buying the Samsung why not just upgrade your dish-network equipment to an HD capable receiver, connect your attic antenna to it for OTA HD, run video to the display and audio to your receiver.

The Samsung is awesome!