ViiV Feature of the HR20

[Earl Bonovich]

Introduction thread on the Networking/ViiV on the HR20
http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=72947

This is the discussion thread, for those features.

[Earl Bonovich]

The "FAQ" helper thread has been posted, and this thread is now open for discussion.

[PoitNarf]

From looking at all the setup stuff for the Viiv features, it looks like the HR20 is calling back to D* over the Internet. Is any info sent back to D* from the HR20?

[Earl Bonovich]

From looking at all the setup stuff for the Viiv features, it looks like the HR20 is calling back to D* over the Internet. Is any info sent back to D* from the HR20?

Right now... as I am told. It is a simple "ping" type check, to www.directv.com. No information is being transfered at this time.

[packfan909]

Earl,

If songs were purchased and downloaded from iTunes, will they be playable through the ViiV server? Or does Apple's DRM get in the way?

Just curious before I make this jump. I need to purchase a new PC but this will decide whether I get an Intel or some other processor. From your screen shots, the interface looks easy to navigate. Can you shuffle within a specific album or just across your entire music server?

Thanks!

[Earl Bonovich]

From what I can gather... right now, no songs from iTunes will not be available.

I am 99% sure you can "shuffle" accrosss your entire collection, but I will have to double check for certain.

[dvrblogger]

Earl,
What software did you have on the Non VIIV "Matrix" machine to have it show up on the HR20 ?

[DblD_Indy]

Earl,

I know this is currently a one way data transfer into the device at the moment but I did just run across the fact that my Media player is ViiV compliant. Have you heard rumors that may indicate that someday this feature may allow the transfer of video from the HR-20 to portable media devices?

Being a non-i-lifestyle geek I would be excited to find out I could be one of the first kids on the block to take the “Office” to the Office and not have to use an eye clod to do it.

http://us.creative.com/products/product.asp?category=210&subcategory=211&product=12985

If they need testers let me know, I love to play!

[Earl Bonovich]

Earl,
What software did you have on the Non VIIV "Matrix" machine to have it show up on the HR20 ?

Just standard Media Center Edition 2005.
I haven't updated the system to Media Player 11

[Earl Bonovich]

I know this is currently a one way data transfer into the device at the moment but I did just run across the fact that my Media player is ViiV compliant. Have you heard rumors that may indicate that someday this feature may allow the transfer of video from the HR-20 to portable media devices?


That is supposidly going to be a feature in the DirecTV2Go service..

[litzdog911]

If the HR20 can see both "ViiV" and "non-Viiv" MediaCenter PCs on your network, what features are only available on from the "ViiV" PC? Can you only view pictures and play music files from the "ViiV" PC and not other Media Center PCs?

By the way, here are couple of good MediaCenter User Forums ....

http://www.xpmce.com/forum/index.php

http://thegreenbutton.com/forums/

[dvrblogger]

Earl,
Do you have any Mac's at home ?

[Earl Bonovich]

If the HR20 can see both "ViiV" and "non-Viiv" MediaCenter PCs on your network, what features are only available on from the "ViiV" PC? Can you only view pictures and play music files from the "ViiV" PC and not other Media Center PCs?


On the "non-ViiV" MediaCenter... all the sub-folders options where empty.
(And I did have content in them, as I can see it on the XBOX360).

On the ViiV system, I was able to see both Music and Pictures.

Earl,
Do you have any Mac's at home ?

No, don't have any Mac's here.
I am considering getting an Intel powered one in 2007... Kinda just holding off to see what happens with Vista, and if I can get one that will cleanly dual boot... I am good to go.

[lguvenoz]

I would be curious about how this will all mesh together over time. ViiV is built upon the DTCP-IP network protocol to provide the communications between a media server and a "receiver", but MS and the other companies have been moving down the DLNA path (there are components of DLNA already in Vista and MCE 2005) for media sharing. The DLNA site is interesting: http://www.dlna.org/en/consumer/home

It's a very large consortium of companies versus the 4 or 5 in the DTCP-IP world, and also bridges the gap between all CE devices and PCs including things like cell phones.

Should be interesting....

[hancox]

I'm more interested in the future capabilities that D* is looking to exploit here.

In its current form, this is useless to me, as I already have a UPnP media server and an xbox 360. This gives me better functionality, and no DRM.

[irishelvis]

So basically if I don't have a ViiV machine nor MS Media Center running, I am out of luck when it comes to streaming music and photos to my HR20?

[PoitNarf]

So basically if I don't have a ViiV machine nor MS Media Center running, I am out of luck when it comes to streaming music and photos to my HR20?

For the moment yes. Expect to see posts from others here trying to hack things together though (myself included) :D

[nFavor]

Right now... as I am told. It is a simple "ping" type check, to www.directv.com. No information is being transfered at this time.

I'm disappointed that Internet access is required for this feature. One of the reasons why I moved to the HR20 was that Internet access wasn't needed. So basically, D* is changing direction and requiring Internet access for HR20 users? :nono2:

[memory1]

I got the update this morning, 0X108.
I do not have a ViiV system. It is an athlon 4200X2 on Asus A8nVM-CSM
I do have Vista RTM 5744 with media player 11
I can see the Hr20 on my net, a cat5 ethernet with Dlink DI-624 router
YES, I can play mp3 music and see jpeg pictures

[Bay CIty]

Woud an intel based mac be able to support this? or how about a mac running bootcamp or parrells?

[PoitNarf]

Woud an intel based mac be able to support this? or how about a mac running bootcamp or parrells?

I don't think we'll be able to answer this until someone tries it out themselves.

[wheelswagz]

It sounds like the VIIV feature was worked on and added by D*TV in order to seal the partnership deal with Intel opposed to providing HR20 customers with features they actually want and can use today. Considering only a small percentage of HR20 customers actually have VIIV PCs.

[Earl Bonovich]

I'm disappointed that Internet access is required for this feature. One of the reasons why I moved to the HR20 was that Internet access wasn't needed. So basically, D* is changing direction and requiring Internet access for HR20 users? :nono2:

Internet access is not required... That is just how it is "testing" it's network connection.

[Earl Bonovich]

Woud an intel based mac be able to support this? or how about a mac running bootcamp or parrells?

The "key" is not that it is a ViiV hardware... it is the Media Server that comes with Intel ViiV 1.5 (note, you can have ViiV but only v1... if you don't upgrade to ViiV 1.5, you won't be able to access teh features)

[Earl Bonovich]

I do have Vista RTM 5744 with media player 11


Hmm.... maybe I should update my Media Player on my non-ViiV Media Center, system to v11 and see what happens.

[PoitNarf]

I got the update this morning, 0X108.
I do not have a ViiV system. It is an athlon 4200X2 on Asus A8nVM-CSM
I do have Vista RTM 5744 with media player 11
I can see the Hr20 on my net, a cat5 ethernet with Dlink DI-624 router
YES, I can play mp3 music and see jpeg pictures

I glanced over this thread too quickly and didn't see this post. Good news for me! :D
Vista build 5744 is RC2 which I am running at home. Are you running any other software on your computer, or was it able to connect with the HR20 with just what comes with Vista?

[PoitNarf]

Lookie what I found :D

http://thegreenbutton.com/forums/thread/140361.aspx

[memory1]

More info
My system is really a straight Vista with no other special software

The access is from the HR20 to either of the two main computers on this local net
The HR20 can see folders, files and drives on either computer.
The HR20 is not the fastest computer when looking for files
So far only mp3 files for music, and wma . I will try .AC3 or PM4 tonight
Pictures are static jpep pictures from my camera and phone
So far I am not able to get avi, or other video files to play

There is a lot to learn about the net access of the HR20

[PoitNarf]

More info
My system is really a straight Vista with no other special software

The access is from the HR20 to either of the two main computers on this local net
The HR20 can see folders, files and drives on either computer.
The HR20 is not the fastest computer when looking for files
So far only mp3 files for music, not wma . I will try .AC3 or PM4 tonight
Pictures are static jpep pictures from my camera and phone
So far I am not able to get avi, or other video files to play

There is a lot to learn about the net access of the HR20

Thanks for the update. I'll have to check it out for myself whenever my HR20 gets the new update.

[lguvenoz]

Thanks for the update. I'll have to check it out for myself whenever my HR20 gets the new update.

I'll be sure to post my results once I get the update. I have the released version of Windows Vista Ultimate up and running. Should get interesting...

If I can get them talking, I'll delve into the networking details a bit more.

[Slip Jigs]

More info
My system is really a straight Vista with no other special software

The access is from the HR20 to either of the two main computers on this local net
The HR20 can see folders, files and drives on either computer.
The HR20 is not the fastest computer when looking for files
So far only mp3 files for music, not wma . I will try .AC3 or PM4 tonight
Pictures are static jpep pictures from my camera and phone
So far I am not able to get avi, or other video files to play

There is a lot to learn about the net access of the HR20

Interesting - so with your setup, does it appear that the HR20 is seeing the content on your computer in a peer-to-peer fashion, or does Vista inherently run some sort of media server?

And for anyone who is a Yahoo, Rhapsody or Napster subscriber - it would be interesting to see if the HR20 is able to play the protected content.

[dconfer]

Earl,
Can you tell me were you got Viiv 1.5? Intel website just has 1.5.2. I did download it and tried to install but it said I had to have 1.5 first.

[PoitNarf]

Earl,
Can you tell me were you got Viiv 1.5? Intel website just has 1.5.2. I did download it and tried to install but it said I had to have 1.5 first.

You downloaded the full installer (~ 66MB) ?

Intel Viiv Download Page (http://downloadfinder.intel.com/scripts-df-external/filter_results.aspx?strTypes=all&ProductID=2223&OSFullName=Windows*+XP+Media+Center+Edition&lang=eng&strOSs=88&submit=Go%21)

[dconfer]

You downloaded the full installer (~ 66MB) ?

Yes full 66 mb


I just found this on intel's site
How Do I Upgrade From Intel® Viiv™ Software Version 1.0 to Version 1.5?
If you have Intel® Viiv™ technology-based PC with version 1.0 software, you can upgrade to version 1.5 with the purchase of an Intel® Viiv™ technology verified device.

Well I purchased the HR20 so D* should supply it.
This stinks if I can't find it somewhere.

[Earl Bonovich]

Earl,
Can you tell me were you got Viiv 1.5? Intel website just has 1.5.2. I did download it and tried to install but it said I had to have 1.5 first.

Well I purchased the HR20 so D* should supply it.
This stinks if I can't find it somewhere.

It came with my new system (pre-installed).
I know DirecTV/Intel are working on a download page for it.

[dconfer]

It came with my new system (pre-installed).
I know DirecTV/Intel are working on a download page for it.

That makes me feel alot better. God I was waiting for this feature like other have been waiting on OTA. Then to think I would not be able to get it because of the wrong version. Thank alot Earl.

[jamieh1]

I have a HP thats about 1 1/2 yr old I dont know anything about ViiV, but it has windows media player 11, can I hook my computer to The HR20 once I get the update and use it?

[Earl Bonovich]

I have a HP thats about 1 1/2 yr old I dont know anything about ViiV, but it has windows media player 11, can I hook my computer to The HR20 once I get the update and use it?

Not sure..
I am testing that now on my other system.

[Spanky_Partain]

I guess I am going to move to Chicago so I can get some updates on my HR20. Still waiting for the first 10x drop....

[Earl Bonovich]

I guess I am going to move to Chicago so I can get some updates on my HR20. Still waiting for the first 10x drop....

Talk to Santa
http://www.dbstalk.com/showthread.php?t=72983

[remlle]

so the viiv feature works with media player 11?

[PoitNarf]

so the viiv feature works with media player 11?

I'll tell ya in 2.5 hours :D

[Slip Jigs]

so the viiv feature works with media player 11?

We're still waiting on the verdict on that one.. it's not supposed to, but there's been one report without confirmation.

[Mixer]

Reading through that thread it seems they have been having problems with it. hopefully something that works 100% will be along by the time we all have the latest HR20 software.

Lookie what I found :D

http://thegreenbutton.com/forums/thread/140361.aspx

[Earl Bonovich]

Not sure..
I am testing that now on my other system.

so the viiv feature works with media player 11?

I'll tell ya in 2.5 hours :D

We're still waiting on the verdict on that one.. it's not supposed to, but there's been one report without confirmation.


Consider it confirmed...

I just got done installing Media Player 11... on my Media Center 2005
I was able to access BOTH Pictures and Audio files (I only tried MP3 rips that I had)

I am just disappointed that there is no Media Player 11 (or Media Connect) for Windows 2003

[Slip Jigs]

Consider it confirmed...

I just got done installing Media Player 11... on my Media Center 2005
I was able to access BOTH Pictures and Audio files (I only tried MP3 rips that I had)

I am just disappointed that there is no Media Player 11 (or Media Connect) for Windows 2003

Sweet -

Now for the next test: Will it work with XP sp2 and will it play wma protected files? (I'll check this myself if I can get the update tonight)

Also, I wonder if Dtv will disable this in a future update if it's not Viiv compliant...

[PoitNarf]

Sweet -

Now for the next test: Will it work with XP sp2 and will it play wma protected files? (I'll check this myself if I can get the update tonight)

Also, I wonder if Dtv will disable this in a future update if it's not Viiv compliant...

Doubtful. If anything, they'll only support the feature if you're using it with a Viiv system.

[Earl Bonovich]

Sweet -

Now for the next test: Will it work with XP sp2 and will it play wma protected files? (I'll check this myself if I can get the update tonight)

Also, I wonder if Dtv will disable this in a future update if it's not Viiv compliant...


All depends if the new Media Connect features of Media Player conform to what ever standard Intel ViiV is using...

[remlle]

Sweet. yea I wish there was a media player 11 for server 2003 so I could run all my MP3s from my servers. I have 3 in the house.

[dvrblogger]

Earl,

If songs were purchased and downloaded from iTunes, will they be playable through the ViiV server? Or does Apple's DRM get in the way?

Just curious before I make this jump. I need to purchase a new PC but this will decide whether I get an Intel or some other processor. From your screen shots, the interface looks easy to navigate. Can you shuffle within a specific album or just across your entire music server?

Thanks!

Only unprotected Itunes content can be streamed by VIIV today.

[dvrblogger]

All depends if the new Media Connect features of Media Player conform to what ever standard Intel ViiV is using...
WMP11 is a dlna server so it should be similar to VIIV. Anyone tried any MAC Media servers that are dlna compliant ?

[S. DiThomas]

Ok

I have a non VIIV and non Media Center Win install on Intel platform
running Win Vista RC1.

Anyone try the networking (view photos and music with Vista RC1?)

I missed RC II, but if it it works with RC 1 I would love to try out the networking. I refuse to buy Windows media center (I need remote desktop for work) and more security features. This would certainly make me consider a Vista upgrade sooner rather than later if it all works with out a VIIV PC?

And what is VIIV - sofware for Media Center PCS or a whole unit Media Center windows on a special VIIV computer? (I assume it has HDCP compliance, special video cards and monitors etc.?):scratchin

[dvrblogger]

sounds like all you need is windows media 11 if yu have it try and enable media sharing otherwise download it from MSFT.

[pgiralt]

In looking at the screenshots, the whole ViiV integration looks pretty lame. Why are they trying to cram everything into that little menu window instead of providing a nice screen that shows thumbnails of your pictures and can display the whole name of your MP3's. Any idea if there are plans to improve the UI of this feature?

[Earl Bonovich]

Some more good news.

Success with my Windows 2003 Server...

I used this program
http://www.twonkyvision.de

With the LPCM add-on
http://www.twonkyvision.de/Download/Add-ons/index.html

After setting up the server, setting the directories...
Boom... I was able to see the audio files (didn't try pictures yet).

Granted this solution is not "free" but it is only like $20

[PoitNarf]

Alright, I'm all set now. HR20 is finally connected to my home network. Had to terminate cat5e with a RJ45 jack next to my patch panel in the basement. Got a link light on my switch, so hopefully I'm good to go :D

[sdlevi27]

Some more good news.

Success with my Windows 2003 Server...

I used this program
http://www.twonkyvision.de

With the LPCM add-on
http://www.twonkyvision.de/Download/Add-ons/index.html

After setting up the server, setting the directories...
Boom... I was able to see the audio files (didn't try pictures yet).

Granted this solution is not "free" but it is only like $20

And this is an alternative to using the Viiv server on your PC?

[Earl Bonovich]

And this is an alternative to using the Viiv server on your PC?

I can now see all THREE of my systems (they all show up under MyComputers via the HR20)

Gateway - XP Media Center with ViiV - Running Intel ViiV Media Server
Matrix - XP Media Center - Running MS Media Connect via Media Player 11
Yoda - Windows 2003 Server - Running Twonky with LPMC Add-On

So yes... it appears so.

[mikeny]

And this is an alternative to using the Viiv server on your PC?
..and that program says it runs on XP SP2..so will that suffice with the HR20?

[Earl Bonovich]

..and that program says it runs on XP SP2..so will that suffice with the HR20?

The HR20 just looks for a compliant media server.
It doesn't care what type of system it is running on.

So long as it "sends" what the HR20 is looking for, it should work.

[mikeny]

The HR20 just looks for a compliant media server.
It doesn't care what type of system it is running on.

So long as it "sends" what the HR20 is looking for, it should work.
sounds like a promising practical alternative then: very exciting...

[mrshermanoaks]

For those getting it to work with Windows Media Player 11 on MCE 2005 - is it the enabling of music sharing that makes it work? Does WMP need to be launched?

For some reason, I'm not getting it and I'm not sure why.

[lionsrule]

um, I was able to do this kind of stuff a year ago with my xbox 360. What's the big deal? When I read the HEADLINE I was hoping wireless network activation meant that I could stream recorded shows from one STB to the other.

[Earl Bonovich]

For those getting it to work with Windows Media Player 11 on MCE 2005 - is it the enabling of music sharing that makes it work? Does WMP need to be launched?

For some reason, I'm not getting it and I'm not sure why.

Yes, you need to enable music sharing.
You also need to "authorize" the DirecTV HR20 (in the Media Connect panel)
It will be listed as "Unkown" and have the MAC address for the unit.

[Earl Bonovich]

um, I was able to do this kind of stuff a year ago with my xbox 360. What's the big deal? When I read the HEADLINE I was hoping wireless network activation meant that I could stream recorded shows from one STB to the other.

Part of the big deal, is that it is on the HR20.. which is usually "on" all the time, vs the XBOX360.. .which come people don't have connected all the time, or setup to use their universal remotes.

[PoitNarf]

um, I was able to do this kind of stuff a year ago with my xbox 360. What's the big deal?

The big deal is that not all of us have an xbox 360 ;)

[bagleyb]

Does WMP have to be running for the HR20 to see it? Or does the media server run as a service in the background, regardless if WMP is open or not?

[Earl Bonovich]

Does WMP have to be running for the HR20 to see it? Or does the media server run as a service in the background, regardless if WMP is open or not?

The Media Connect (which is what is really doing the work, but is "accessed" via Media Player), runs as a Service in the background.

So no, WMP doesn't need to be "running" at the time.

[iacas]

No, don't have any Mac's here.
I am considering getting an Intel powered one in 2007... Kinda just holding off to see what happens with Vista, and if I can get one that will cleanly dual boot... I am good to go.

Forget dual booting. Virtualization (with Parallels, probably) is the way to go.

[mrshermanoaks]

Yes, you need to enable music sharing.
You also need to "authorize" the DirecTV HR20 (in the Media Connect panel)
It will be listed as "Unkown" and have the MAC address for the unit.

guess that is probably the problem. the HR20 doesn't show up for me. No firewalls in the way, maybe I'll try a restart tonight.

[bagleyb]

That was extremely easy to setup, and the sound is good too!

[Earl Bonovich]

That was extremely easy to setup, and the sound is good too!

The Sound was Freaking awsome... but I chalked a lot of that too, that I have been listening to my MP3's via my Computers Speaker System (which isn't bad)... and now it is in my stereo.

[bagleyb]

I was actually waiting on iTV for January, or maybe a Mac Mini once they support BR. I have an HD Camcorder, and use my Mac to edit in HD. If I can save that to a 1080i AVI or QuickTime file w/ MPEG4, and the HR20 will decode it, I'll save some $$$

I'll have to transfer it to the PC until there's a media server for the Mac, but that's easy enough to do via Ethernet.

BTW, thanks for all you do. I forgot how good OTA looked!

[PoitNarf]

Works for me under both Windows XP Professional with SP2 and Windows Vista RC2, neither is a Viiv machine. In fact, the XP Pro machine is an AMD machine. Set both up with WMP11. HR20 is able to access pictures and music from both computers. Yay :D

[Sixto]

The Sound was Freaking awsome.Knew you'd love it. That's what got me hooked on Series3 ... funny ... now I can't get the HR20 ... sold out :(

[dvrblogger]

Some more good news.

Success with my Windows 2003 Server...

I used this program
http://www.twonkyvision.de

With the LPCM add-on
http://www.twonkyvision.de/Download/Add-ons/index.html

After setting up the server, setting the directories...
Boom... I was able to see the audio files (didn't try pictures yet).

Granted this solution is not "free" but it is only like $20

They also have a free version Mac version and linux version as well as Windows

[dvrblogger]

I was actually waiting on iTV for January, or maybe a Mac Mini once they support BR. I have an HD Camcorder, and use my Mac to edit in HD. If I can save that to a 1080i AVI or QuickTime file w/ MPEG4, and the HR20 will decode it, I'll save some $$$

I'll have to transfer it to the PC until there's a media server for the Mac, but that's easy enough to do via Ethernet.

BTW, thanks for all you do. I forgot how good OTA looked!

Try eyeconnect from www.Elgato.com I got it to stream photos but I have some audio problem all I get is static. Earl's www.twonkyvision.de is supposed to work on a Mac as well.
http://www.elgato.com/index.php?file=support_updates_eyeconnect&PHPSESSID=6dfe36221b34320af0e2ae344be4b1b2

[Hutchinshouse]

Works for me under both Windows XP Professional with SP2 and Windows Vista RC2, neither is a Viiv machine. In fact, the XP Pro machine is an AMD machine. Set both up with WMP11. HR20 is able to access pictures and music from both computers. Yay :D

I have Windows XP Professional with SP2.... no luck

What steps did you take? If it's not too much to ask can you give step by step instructions? I'm a mac guy. Completly lost with Windows XP Professional with SP2 .

Thanks

[bagleyb]

I love that you can play the audio, and have the video from D* up at the same time. Great for a party!

I'm looking forward to having my daughters soccer team over, putting the 1500 pictures on shuffle, and creating a playlist to play over them.

I can't believe it, but I'm more excited about this than I am OTA.

[bagleyb]

Just found my first Bug, do you want ViiV bugs posted here, or in the 108 thread?

[dvrblogger]

Bagleyb,
what was it ?

[Earl Bonovich]

Just found my first Bug, do you want ViiV bugs posted here, or in the 108 thread?

Post it here....

[pgiralt]

Try eyeconnect from www.Elgato.com I got it to stream photos but I have some audio problem all I get is static. Earl's www.twonkyvision.de is supposed to work on a Mac as well.
http://www.elgato.com/index.php?file=support_updates_eyeconnect&PHPSESSID=6dfe36221b34320af0e2ae344be4b1b2

The Mac version appears to somewhat work. The HR20 sees the mac and viewing pictures works. I need to load up some MP3's to see if audio works.

[Slip Jigs]

I have Windows XP Professional with SP2.... no luck

What steps did you take? If it's not too much to ask can you give step by step instructions? I'm a mac guy. Completly lost with Windows XP Professional with SP2 .

Thanks

Same here...

Network test - OK

WMP 11, latest update - Media Sharing on, "Unknown Device" present and allowed

- nothing showing up on the HR20 menu at all regarding music, photos, computers, etc..

WinXP sp2

[Earl Bonovich]

Same here...

Network test - OK

WMP 11, latest update - Media Sharing on, "Unknown Device" present and allowed

- nothing showing up on the HR20 menu at all regarding music, photos, computers, etc..

WinXP sp2


Hmm... be sure to add music to your "sharing" libraries.

One other thing I did (when trying other things), was share the folder that my files where stored in.. (not sure if it made a difference but...)

[beestea]

Hmm... be sure to add music to your "sharing" libraries.

One other thing I did (when trying other things), was share the folder that my files where stored in.. (not sure if it made a difference but...)

I am running Vista Ultimate edition with Windows Media Player 11. Got the DVR to show up but still trying to figure out how to get it to see my mp3's that aren't integrated into the Media Center database.

You may need to reboot the HDDVR once you configure the network before it will see the Media Center computer. Also make sure you have sharing enabled.

Its going to require some tweeking to get everything working like I am used to on my tivos but this is definitely a step in the right direction.

Thanks Earl for posting the info about how to grab the software upgrade :)

[Slip Jigs]

Hmm... be sure to add music to your "sharing" libraries.

One other thing I did (when trying other things), was share the folder that my files where stored in.. (not sure if it made a difference but...)

K - reset the HR, now it's seeing my computer.

Plays mp3's from the library, but so far it doesn't know what to do with the WMA subscription tracks from Yahoo Music.

Chances are it can play protected media - but I'll keep fiddling.

Oh, and now I have two unknown devices in Media Connect!

Edited to Add: I don't know if it's the WMA file type in general, or the fact that it's a subscription track.

[Hutchinshouse]

K - reset the HR, now it's seeing my computer.

Plays mp3's from the library, but so far it doesn't know what to do with the WMA subscription tracks from Yahoo Music.

Chances are it can play protected media - but I'll keep fiddling.

Oh, and now I have two unknown devices in Media Connect!

Edited to Add: I don't know if it's the WMA file type in general, or the fact that it's a subscription track.

Where is Media Connect? I cannot find it.

[Slip Jigs]

Where is Media Connect? I cannot find it.

It's integrated into WMP11 - click Library, then Media Sharing.

[PoitNarf]

Where is Media Connect? I cannot find it.

In Windows Media Player 11:

Goto Tools -> Options

Click the Library tab and then select "Configure Sharing"

The Media Sharing window that pops up will list the HR20 as "unknown device"

Select the HR20 ("unknown device") and set it to "Allow"

[Hutchinshouse]

It's integrated into WMP11 - click Library, then Media Sharing.

I go there, click on 'share my media to:' nothing happens. The allow, deny and customized buttons are grayed out.

My HR20 is connected to my router, the HR 20 states that the connection is ok.

[Slip Jigs]

I gotta get some sleep - tomorrow I'll rip some non-protected WMA's and see how that goes (unless someone else can check it first!)

If it turns out that that it won't play subscription tracks, then I'll add it to the wishlist..

I know - the HR20 is a TV box first, but let's make it a total media center!

[Slip Jigs]

I go there, click on 'share my media to:' nothing happens. The allow, deny and customized buttons are grayed out.

My HR20 is connected to my router, the HR 20 states that the connection is ok.

Are you seeing the unknown device with the icon in the white area? It should be there with a green check - a red check, then highlight it and click allow.

If it's not there - check the network connection from the HR20, etc. It took about 5 minutes at first for the device to show up for me - I don't know why the lag.

[PoitNarf]

Only things I noticed from just about 10 minutes worth of use this evening is that sometimes the Music & Photos menu is slow to respond. I was recording 2 different shows at the time, so I don't know if that would have any effect. Playing music works real well so far. Photo viewing could use some performance improvements but I am unsure on how much of the lag can be attributed to the HR20 accessing 5 megapixel images (~ 1.5MB) on my computer.

[beestea]

Well I just imported my 50 gig music directory into the windows media library which my Vista box handles ok but now the HR20 just hangs when I select the Music folder. Im going to have to play around some more tomorrow as well. Still happy they are adding these features.

[dtvmiami]

um, I was able to do this kind of stuff a year ago with my xbox 360. What's the big deal? When I read the HEADLINE I was hoping wireless network activation meant that I could stream recorded shows from one STB to the other.
For 1, the xbox 360 does not have any DVR capabilities.
And 2, wrong forum! Even if it was a ReplayTV, #2 still applies.

Most of us have HR20's and are excited about these new networking features.

There's a forum out there for all. This is the home of the HR20! Want xbox360 news/hacks, I suggest the forums.xbox-scene (http://forums.xbox-scene.com/index.php?c=149,161,137,140,166,141,145,177)
which btw, is one my favorite sites and frequent there often:)

[Monty23]

Now it's getting exciting. May be disconnecting that HR10-250 soon........

[dtvmiami]

Now it's getting exciting. May be disconnecting that HR10-250 soon........
Same here, I'm thinking ebay myself. B4, prices get too low.

And a great time it would be while so many are in the shopping mood.

[PoitNarf]

Just an additional FYI:

My router DHCP table shows the HR20 with a hostname of "DIRECTV-HR20".

I wonder what happens if you have 2 HR20s on the same network? I hope they get unique hostnames.

[AirShark]

Synopsis of my day:

Early; "slogging away at work"

Mid-day; "I see that Santa will be delivering 108 tonight. Yay!"

Mid-der day; "NO ViiV PC at home. ^&$*&^@*^@!!~!!!~!!!!"

8PM: "Thanks for 108 Santa!"

10:30PM: "Windows Media Player 11 works for streaming with XP SP2!!!!!!!!!Same setup as to share with my Xbox 360....awesome."


Thanks Earl!

[Twosted]

I can not get this to work. When I click the "Allow sharing" checkbox it doesn't take and no other options show up.

EDIT: I meant "Share My Media" checkbox.

[jbstix]

In Windows Media Player 11:

Goto Tools -> Options

Click the Library tab and then select "Configure Sharing"

The Media Sharing window that pops up will list the HR20 as "unknown device"

Select the HR20 ("unknown device") and set it to "Allow"

Same problem as the above post ...

HR20 is connected to network has IP address, and I can see it in my DHCP clients list - but I'm having trouble in WMP 11.

When I click "Configure Sharing" it just has the "Share my Media" check box, (no devices show up) I check the box click OK, and it sits for a minute then does nothing, the box just stays open.

Can anyone help here? I have My Music and My Pics folders both shared as well.

Ideas?

I've restarted the HR20 once as well, just to see if it changed anything - no dice.

[Twosted]

HR20 is connected to network has IP address, and I can see it in my DHCP clients list - but I'm having trouble in WMP 11.

When I click "Configure Sharing" it just has the "Share my Media" check box, (no devices show up) I check the box click OK, and it sits for a minute then does nothing, the box just stays open.

Can anyone help here? I have My Music and My Pics folders both shared as well.

Ideas?

I've restarted the HR20 once as well, just to see if it changed anything - no dice.

That is the exact same problem I am having.:(

[Hutchinshouse]

That is the exact same problem I am having.:(

Same here! Such a bummer!!

[jbstix]

That is the exact same problem I am having.:(

Interesting find - I tried this with my laptop and it worked (XP Home SP2)
But is still not working with my Desktop (XP Pro SP2)
I wonder if it is b/c I have my desktop setup as Static IP, and the laptop is DHCP???

[swedishcancerboi]

check this......I finally got the hr20 to show up on my computer

running windows x64 pro

checked my router settings, had my pc in a dmz zone for irc serving

removed pc from dmz

rebooted router

repaired network connection

seconds later, windws recognized a new device

not sure which step fixed it, but try restarting your router

[swedishcancerboi]

I hope adding those registry keys to my pc for ViiV (on my AMD system) doesn't screw anything up........even though it wasn't what fixed my system

[swedishcancerboi]

Anyone know what kind of Videos I can play on the HR20???

[farjo08]

I have XP Professional SP2 and WMP 11. I setup up my 360 and that is working fine but it does not detect my HR20. The network (on the HR20) did setup correctly and the test works. But like others have reported I can't get WMP11 to see the HR20.

They are both on the same network however my PC is going through a 2Wire DSL/Router/Model and my HR20 is connected to a hub which in turn is connected to the 2Wire device.

As it's getting late here, I probably won't try anything else until tomorrow. As some people seem to have this working with XP and WMP11 I am hoping someone can figure out the problem and hopefully this won't require the Media Center Edition of XP.

EDIT: I restarted my HR20 and it now works! How cool is that! So for those that are having problems (and verified you have selected / added your music / picture folders and they are shared) try rebooting your HR20 after WMP11 is setup and hopefully it will work as it did in my case!

One thing, while I have videos setup (mpg / vcd that I created / encoded myself) selecting the video folder and options does nothing. Is there a list of the types of video it can play? Or does videos just not work at this time?

[Hutchinshouse]

I restarted the recorder. It now works with WMP11. No need for the ViiV BS.....:D

[bsmithFX4]

I got it set up here on XP SP2, WMP 11. Just had to go to WMP and do the "Configure Sharing" as posted by PoitNarf. Now my question is how are the folders listed for photos? When I bring up the menu for Photos, then Folders, I get the first 6 or so alphabetically (whatever fits in the menu), but when I page down or scroll down by one, I get the individual photos beneath them, instead of the next 100 or so folders that should follow alphabetically. Perhaps this is a bug or am I missing something?

I'm really starting to love this HR20!

[Tom Robertson]

Just an additional FYI:

My router DHCP table shows the HR20 with a hostname of "DIRECTV-HR20".

I wonder what happens if you have 2 HR20s on the same network? I hope they get unique hostnames.

My Netgear router DHCP table only shows the last HR20 to request as "DIRECTV-HR20", the first two get blanks by the router. Would be nice if the advanced setup would allow us to give the units names like "LivingRoom" or such.

Cheers,
Tom

[Jeremy W]

Here's how the HR20 looks in Vista:
http://www.dbstalk.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=6823&stc=1&d=1166082570

[swedishcancerboi]

This is the greatest thing ever....Not to sound too excited.

I wish I could get the video playback to work. Any Ideas???
I also like being able to switch between music and slideshow control.

I have to admit, they got something right. Definately happy with my choice of IRD.

I mean hell, my mp3 player won't even display all of the song title/artist/album information as accurately as the HR20 is doing!

[litzdog911]

Anyone know what kind of Videos I can play on the HR20???

No video playback yet, just music and photos.

[swedishcancerboi]

Now here's something funny, explain this:

I connect, I'm listening to music and start viewing pictures.
message pops up and says that Server:**** has logged off.
okay....no pictures
but if the server logged off, how is it that the music keeps playing?
if I press menu then I no longer have Music and Photos listed

Therefore: no connection, right?.......perhaps the song is in some kind of buffer?

I decided to call it a night, so I turned off the HR20 and......
THE MUSIC IS STILL PLAYING!!!!

All the lights on the unit are off......

After the track ended, I turned the unit back on and WOO HOO, Music and Photos option is back on my menu.

Definately still in testing, but still OH so excited.

I can't wait to show it off to my friends who have Dish and Cox Cable!

[swedishcancerboi]

Thank you, Earl, and hell, even D* for allowing the few of us lucky enough to catch the download an opportunity to experience....damn I'm a geek. Words alone can't express my tears of joy. I can now stop trying to code that damn Linux program I've been working on for months.

[farjo08]

I noticed a problem with the Music / Video sharing that someone mentioned having a similar problem.

I had it all working (after a reboot of the HR20) and was listening to a song. When the song ended, a message popped up about the server logging off and the option disappeared from the HR20 menu.

The server was not shutdown, rebooted, logged off, etc. I had to reboot the HR20 to get it back in the menu item again.

I am not sure why it is "logging" off as it did not and testing the network connection (in the hr20) worked fine. The only way I could get it back was through a reboot.

Just wanted to report this as I see two issues:

1) Server logging off
2) How to get the menu item back without rebooting the HR20?

[Cyrus]

2) How to get the menu item back without rebooting the HR20?

Maybe unplugging hr20 (or the PC) from the network and then plugging it back again?

[dvrblogger]

Anyone know what kind of Videos I can play on the HR20???

none yet that is not available yet only personal music and photos.

[dvrblogger]

I noticed a problem with the Music / Video sharing that someone mentioned having a similar problem.

I had it all working (after a reboot of the HR20) and was listening to a song. When the song ended, a message popped up about the server logging off and the option disappeared from the HR20 menu.

The server was not shutdown, rebooted, logged off, etc. I had to reboot the HR20 to get it back in the menu item again.

I am not sure why it is "logging" off as it did not and testing the network connection (in the hr20) worked fine. The only way I could get it back was through a reboot.

Just wanted to report this as I see two issues:

1) Server logging off
2) How to get the menu item back without rebooting the HR20?

I believe on eof VIIV's advanatges is telling devices when the PC is online and when it is off. I have a VIIV PC and the HR20 can wake up my PC from standbye to play music/show photos. On WMP11 sometimes I get a disconnected message and sometimes not when turning off and no indication when it is in standbye/hibernate.

[dvrblogger]

I gotta get some sleep - tomorrow I'll rip some non-protected WMA's and see how that goes (unless someone else can check it first!)

If it turns out that that it won't play subscription tracks, then I'll add it to the wishlist..

I know - the HR20 is a TV box first, but let's make it a total media center!

I was able to play unprotected wmas from VIIV and WMP11. I think protected music requires the VIIV security which may not be available yet.

[crockett]

Could someone clarify something for me?

I live in a rural area and can only get dial-up internet access. Would I still be able to network to my HR20? I'm running Windows XP sp2.

If I don't need a high speed internet connection I'll give this a go. It sure would be nice to play music and view photos on my downstairs TV and stereo.

One last question. Will it only play mp3s? Will the audio files have to be in that format or will it play other formats that Media Player 11 is capable of playing?

Thanks.

[remlle]

to get this to work does it have to connect to a media center PC or can it connect to windows XP sp2?

[Slump Buster]

Could someone clarify something for me?

I live in a rural area and can only get dial-up internet access. Would I still be able to network to my HR20? I'm running Windows XP sp2.

If I don't need a high speed internet connection I'll give this a go. It sure would be nice to play music and view photos on my downstairs TV and stereo.

One last question. Will it only play mp3s? Will the audio files have to be in that format or will it play other formats that Media Player 11 is capable of playing?

Thanks.

You shouldn't need to get outside of your house (broadband) to play music that is on your home network. One really has nothing to do with the other. The only pitfall that I can see is that *maybe* the HR20 sees that you don't have Internet connection (as opposed to being on your home network only) and thus thinks that you are not online.

[Mike Huss]

Oh this is really cool. The cat-5 I have run for a phone line to the HR20 might just have to turn in to an ethernet line. Wife won't be happy about losing caller id on the HDTV though. *thinking out loud* Hmmm...wonder if I can steal that un-used ethernet line from the adjacent bedroom?

Remlle, others have stated they have gotten it to work with XP SP2 with MP11.

[remlle]

got the media sharing working with a Vista ultimate install on a spare box. sharing media off my storage server running windows 2003 server

[Slip Jigs]

I was able to play unprotected wmas from VIIV and WMP11. I think protected music requires the VIIV security which may not be available yet.

Or at least the software ability to interpret the license...

I don't think Viiv is going to replace windows media DRM.. they may use both with certain content. (just guessing)

[Monty23]

Does anyone know if hi-resolution photos are being displayed in full HD resolution like the Xbox 360 or are they being down converted similiar to just plugging your camera into the TV???

[Slump Buster]

Has anyone had any success using something other than WMP 11? I know Earl said that he got it to see Twonky (I did too) but my quick test to try to play the music this morning was not successful.

[jgrade]

Oh this is really cool. The cat-5 I have run for a phone line to the HR20 might just have to turn in to an ethernet line. Wife won't be happy about losing caller id on the HDTV though. *thinking out loud* Hmmm...wonder if I can steal that un-used ethernet line from the adjacent bedroom?

Remlle, others have stated they have gotten it to work with XP SP2 with MP11.

If you are using Cat 5 or 5e and running 100Base-TX then you can get away with runing both LAN and phone on the same cable. Keep in mind this is not the best solution, but it will work. On a normal 100Base-TX, only blue and brown pairs are neeed, which frees up green or orange to use for tip and ring (one pair). I have done this before with good results.

However, if you are running gigabit then you are SOL, it need all 4 pairs. Good luck

[bagleyb]

OK, I had to sleep on this before I posted it as a bug. After thinking about it last night, and on the way to work, I'm not sure it's a problem with the HR20, but with XP, WMP or the WMP Media Server, not sure which.

For disaster recovery purposes, I've changed some things in Windows. I have 4 300GB drives in my machine. Two (0 & 3) stand alone, and two (1&2) in a stripe set. I've changed the location of "My Documents" and thus "My Pictures" to be on the stripe set, instead of c:\docs&settings\userid\my documents. However, the HR20 doesn't look there, it still looks to c:\documents & settings\bbagley\my documents\my pictures. But, I think it's Windows, WMP or WMP Media Server telling it to look there. It does find the sample pictures in the all users profile, but none of mine.

I had to add them to my media library in WMP for them to show up.

I synch my photos and music from the stripe set to the last stand alone drive in case the stripe set fails (I also have them on my Mac). I may have to start synching them to the profile directory on my c:\ drive, although the way that drive is partitioned, I'm not sure i have enough space.

It seems to be using the %userprofile% variable when locating the default location. I thought that updating the target location for my documents would update that variable, but it doesn't. If I go to a command line, and do a...

dir "%userprofile%\my documents" it returns c:\documents & settings\bbagley\my documents.

So, you need to manually load your photos in media player if you've changed the default location of "my documents"

[Mike Huss]

If you are using Cat 5 or 5e and running 100Base-TX then you can get away with runing both LAN and phone on the same cable. Keep in mind this is not the best solution, but it will work. On a normal 100Base-TX, only blue and brown pairs are neeed, which frees up green or orange to use for tip and ring (one pair). I have done this before with good results.

However, if you are running gigabit then you are SOL, it need all 4 pairs. Good luck

Ok, I'm intrigued but confused as you know what. I just recently set up my home network and I'm still learning about it. How do I know what I'm running? Is it all based on my router? My router (Buffalo WHR-G54S) shows 100Base-TX as its standard, is that all that matters?

[jgrade]

Ok, I'm intrigued but confused as you know what. I just recently set up my home network and I'm still learning about it. How do I know what I'm running? Is it all based on my router? My router (Buffalo WHR-G54S) shows 100Base-TX as its standard, is that all that matters?

Yes the router is calling the shots in your setup. Splitting the cable into LAN and phone should work AS LONG as the standard wiring was followed. Blue and brown should be 4,5 and 7,8. Take the geen pair and connect it to a cat-3 jack (both ends) and you should have phone and LAN connectivity. Make sure you keep tip and ring wired correctly as I think caller ID is sensitive to it.

[Neil Derryberry]

However, if you are running gigabit then you are SOL, it need all 4 pairs. Good luck

This is really fodder for the computer forum but.. you're incorrect here. pins 1, 2, 3 and 6 are still the only pins required for gig, it is still ethernet. The requirement on the cable type/quality is the difference - your cabling needs to be cat5e or better because of the tighter twist in the wire.

[sdlevi27]

Does anyone recommend a particular brand of wireless bridge? I've seen mixed reviews on just about all of them (D-Link, Linksys, etc). Anyone actually using one right now with their HR-20?

[Slip Jigs]

Another thread talked about getting a low-cast wireless bridge to connect to the network. Question:

How does one go about entering the WPA (or whatever) key once this is connected? Or is it even required?

[Earl Bonovich]

Has anyone had any success using something other than WMP 11? I know Earl said that he got it to see Twonky (I did too) but my quick test to try to play the music this morning was not successful.

Be sure to put the appropriate ADD-ON to Twonky in there..
LPCM

http://www.twonkyvision.de/Download/Add-ons/index.html

[Mike Huss]

Yes the router is calling the shots in your setup. Splitting the cable into LAN and phone should work AS LONG as the standard wiring was followed. Blue and brown should be 4,5 and 7,8. Take the geen pair and connect it to a cat-3 jack (both ends) and you should have phone and LAN connectivity. Make sure you keep tip and ring wired correctly as I think caller ID is sensitive to it.

It is, I wired it myself and I followed the standard. This is all great news, I'll save this info and change the wiring sometime soon hopefully! Thanks much!

Neil, I like to think it's not really for the computer forum because it's determining how I get to run ethernet and phone to my HR20. It's applicable! At least that's my excuse and I'm sticking to it! :D

[jgrade]

This is really fodder for the computer forum but.. you're incorrect here. pins 1, 2, 3 and 6 are still the only pins required for gig, it is still ethernet. The requirement on the cable type/quality is the difference - your cabling needs to be cat5e or better because of the tighter twist in the wire.

I agree with the fodder, however you are incorrect. Ther is no way to get gigabit speed without all four pairs.

From Intel
"1000Base-T
The 1000Base-T Gigabit specification requires that you use CAT 5 UTP cabling or greater and it must be properly cabled using all four wiring pairs to operate at 1000Mbps. If you use lower grade cabling, or if all four wiring pairs are implemented incorrectly, you may get a connection, but you may also experience data loss or slow performance. You're limited to 100 meters between any two devices."

and from Cisco
"1000BASE-T works by using all four of the Category 5 pairs to achieve 1000 Mbps operation over the installed Category 5 copper cabling. 1000 Mbps data rates are achieved by sending and receiving a 250 Mbps data stream over each of the four pairs simultaneously (4 X 250 Mbps = 1 Gbps)."

Check out the 4D-PAM5 standard for a better explaination as to why it must be 4 pairs.

Back to the topic.

[Hutchinshouse]

They also have a free version Mac version and linux version as well as Windows

I'll try my Mac (10.3.9) too tonight using TwonkyVision software. Anyone else get this software working on their Mac?

The WMP11 works fine so far. The only problem I had last night pertained to the HR20. It wasn't seen on my network. I confirmed it had an ip address. Within the HR20 menu it stated congratulations, I was connected to the internet. However, when I pinged the HR20 I did not get a reply, it timed out. Once I restarted the recorder I confirmed I had the same ip, 192.168.1.105. When I pinged it this time it replied as expected. Working ok since.. Pictures look sharp and audio sounds pretty good using WMP11.

Looking forward to checking the Mac tonight.

[Earl Bonovich]

I agree with the fodder, however you are incorrect. Ther is no way to get gigabit speed without all four pairs.

From Intel
"1000Base-T
The 1000Base-T Gigabit specification requires that you use CAT 5 UTP cabling or greater and it must be properly cabled using all four wiring pairs to operate at 1000Mbps. If you use lower grade cabling, or if all four wiring pairs are implemented incorrectly, you may get a connection, but you may also experience data loss or slow performance. You're limited to 100 meters between any two devices."

and from Cisco
"1000BASE-T works by using all four of the Category 5 pairs to achieve 1000 Mbps operation over the installed Category 5 copper cabling. 1000 Mbps data rates are achieved by sending and receiving a 250 Mbps data stream over each of the four pairs simultaneously (4 X 250 Mbps = 1 Gbps)."

Check out the 4D-PAM5 standard for a better explaination as to why it must be 4 pairs.

Back to the topic.


Don't worry about GigaBit speeds so much... the card in the HR20 is only a 100

[Slump Buster]

Be sure to put the appropriate ADD-ON to Twonky in there..
LPCM

http://www.twonkyvision.de/Download/Add-ons/index.html


Earl, I know it has been said many times before, but thanks for all that you do! I just signed up for a year membership. I'd been on the fence before but last night's update clinched it for me, as I know it did for others.

If anyone is looking for a great alternative to the ##^#%^ that comes with windows software, give Twonky a chance! I've been using it for years to connect to all kinds of media devices.

[farjo08]

Maybe unplugging hr20 (or the PC) from the network and then plugging it back again?

I tried that, along with retesting the network from the HR20 and it didn't work. I supect that there is no handshaking so to speak after the HR20 is up and running (at least with WMP11). So if there is a disconnect, the WMP11 isn't reaching out to the HR20 and the HR20 isn't reaching out to the PC.

Perhaps there is something in viiv or the HR20 that will resync with a viic server - so this may only be a WMP11 problem. It would be nice if they could add an "enhancement" to force a HR20 scan - meaning whatever the HR20 appears to send out when it starts up so it discovers (and is discovered) by WMP11 can be done at any time without having to reboot the server. I know this was designed with viiv in mind, but considering a lot of people don't have it and it will work through WMP11 it would be nice if they could enhance it a bit to make it more WMP11 friendly.

[farjo08]

to get this to work does it have to connect to a media center PC or can it connect to windows XP sp2?


You don't need MCE (only for the viiv solution). I am running XP Pro SP2 with WMP11.

[PoitNarf]

Does anyone know if hi-resolution photos are being displayed in full HD resolution like the Xbox 360 or are they being down converted similiar to just plugging your camera into the TV???

I was wondering the same thing myself. I tried hitting the format button on the remote to change the sizing of the photos, but that didn't do anything (I run in Native mode). I entered into the photos menu while I was tuned to a 480i channel and I'm pretty sure it didn't do a resolution change when you start looking at photos. I'm wondering if the photos will display at a higher resolution when starting it up while tuned to a 720p or 1080i channel as opposed to 480i.

Earl, any insight on this?

[Earl Bonovich]

Earl, any insight on this?

Sorry... I don't have any additional info on this one.

[PoitNarf]

Sorry... I don't have any additional info on this one.

Guess I'll play around with it more this evening to see if that's really the case with the resolutions.

[mikeny]

Does anyone recommend a particular brand of wireless bridge? I've seen mixed reviews on just about all of them (D-Link, Linksys, etc). Anyone actually using one right now with their HR-20?

Another thread talked about getting a low-cast wireless bridge to connect to the network. Question:

How does one go about entering the WPA (or whatever) key once this is connected? Or is it even required?

I was checking out the Netgear site, as I have the WGT624v3. Do the bridges need to be compatible? I wonder is this will do the trick: http://www.netgear.com/Products/WirelessAccessPoints/WirelessAccessPoints/WAG102.aspx?detail=Specifications So I put this in the living room, which is directly above my router in the basement then it'll wirelessly access my network, I gather. Then I run the cat 5 to the HR20. Is this the way it works?

I'm on the fence here between trying this approach vs. running the cable from my router up the basement through the drop ceiling floor. I already have so many holes in the floor though:eek2: 3 coax, speaker wire, phone line. Maybe it could fit through one of the holes.

Perhaps FiOS can help in 12 days when they install their internet or maybe I could do it. It'll would probably be extra $ on top of the install. Right?

[jbstix]

HR20 is seeing my laptop (DHCP) but not my desktop (Static).
Also, as described here: http://www.dbstalk.com/showpost.php?p=752172&postcount=103 when trying to set up media sharing in WMP 11, it just sits there and never shows the next screen with "unknown device".

Ideas?

[PoitNarf]

HR20 is seeing my laptop (DHCP) but not my desktop (Static).
Also, as described here: http://www.dbstalk.com/showpost.php?p=752172&postcount=103 when trying to set up media sharing in WMP 11, it just sits there and never shows the next screen with "unknown device".

Ideas?

Some people here have posted that reseting the HR20 seems to get it to show up in WMP11, so give that a try.

[jbstix]

Some people here have posted that reseting the HR20 seems to get it to show up in WMP11, so give that a try.

Thanks PN, I did that last night...

Do you think it has anything to do with the "static ip" on the desktop?

To me WMP11 is acting a little funny on the desktop - not setting up sharing correctly???

Not a huge deal - I usually use my "enhanced" Xbox (1) to stream video, pics, music anyway. XBMC is an incredible app!!!

I would like to get the HR20 to see my desktop though...

Anybody seeing 2 machines on their network with both static and DHCP addresses???

thanks for the help

[Slump Buster]

I was checking out the Netgear site, as I have the WGT624v3. Do the bridges need to be compatible? I wonder is this will do the trick: http://www.netgear.com/Products/WirelessAccessPoints/WirelessAccessPoints/WAG102.aspx?detail=Specifications So I put this in the living room, which is directly above my router in the basement then it'll wirelessly access my network, I gather. Then I run the cat 5 to the HR20. Is this the way it works?

I'm on the fence here between trying this approach vs. running the cable from my router up the basement through the drop ceiling floor. I already have so many holes in the floor though:eek2: 3 coax, speaker wire, phone line. Maybe it could fit through one of the holes.

Perhaps FiOS can help in 12 days when they install their internet or maybe I could do it. It'll would probably be extra $ on top of the install. Right?


I've had a modified Tivo that's been on my network for years and I've had every setup that you described above. The easiest one that people discount is to get a network adapter that runs the network through the electricity. Netgear makes some good products that can be purchased on ebay. I had this setup until I broke down and ran the ethernet cable. I too was limited in space so I I clipped off the plug and ran the wire and then put it back together (you'd need a trip to home depot to do that, of course).

[PoitNarf]

Anybody seeing 2 machines on their network with both static and DHCP addresses???

Windows XP Pro SP2 - DHCP (works fine)
Vista - Static IP (works fine too)

I severely doubt that it is a DHCP issue. Once a network device has an IP address, subnet, and gateway, other devices on the network won't even know how that device got it's TCP/IP settings. Make sure any firewalls on your network or computer are allowing the traffic between the HR20 and the computer and double check all WMP11 sharing settings.

[jbstix]

Windows XP Pro SP2 - DHCP (works fine)
Vista - Static IP (works fine too)

I severely doubt that it is a DHCP issue. Once a network device has an IP address, subnet, and gateway, other devices on the network won't even know how that device got it's TCP/IP settings. Make sure any firewalls on your network or computer are allowing the traffic between the HR20 and the computer and double check all WMP11 sharing settings.

Yeah, it def. seems like it's a WMP 11 issue, it just will not process the "Share my Media" function. Like I described before, it just sits there, and does nothing... very strange.

I wonder if I should just try to reinstall WMP 11 on my desktop?

Thanks

[Earl Bonovich]

Yeah, it def. seems like it's a WMP 11 issue, it just will not process the "Share my Media" function. Like I described before, it just sits there, and does nothing... very strange.

I wonder if I should just try to reinstall WMP 11 on my desktop?

Thanks

If you can't get the WMP 11 product running...

Do doble check in your Services to make sure the Media Connect is running in there, as that is what is actually doing all the work.

But if that still doesn't work, take a glance at that Twonky product.

[Slip Jigs]

I was checking out the Netgear site, as I have the WGT624v3. Do the bridges need to be compatible? I wonder is this will do the trick: http://www.netgear.com/Products/WirelessAccessPoints/WirelessAccessPoints/WAG102.aspx?detail=Specifications So I put this in the living room, which is directly above my router in the basement then it'll wirelessly access my network, I gather. Then I run the cat 5 to the HR20. Is this the way it works?

I'm on the fence here between trying this approach vs. running the cable from my router up the basement through the drop ceiling floor. I already have so many holes in the floor though:eek2: 3 coax, speaker wire, phone line. Maybe it could fit through one of the holes.

Perhaps FiOS can help in 12 days when they install their internet or maybe I could do it. It'll would probably be extra $ on top of the install. Right?

This may be closer to what's needed -

http://www.linksys.com/servlet/Satellite?c=L_Product_C2&childpagename=US%2FLayout&cid=1118334782530&pagename=Linksys%2FCommon%2FVisitorWrapper

[Slip Jigs]

If you can't get the WMP 11 product running...

Do doble check in your Services to make sure the Media Connect is running in there, as that is what is actually doing all the work.

But if that still doesn't work, take a glance at that Twonky product.

I'd suggest also to get the latest update to WMP11 - the latest came in for me just yesterday..

..and check firewall settings..

[Twosted]

Should the HR20 show up under "My Network Places" on Windows XP?

[jbstix]

If you can't get the WMP 11 product running...

Do doble check in your Services to make sure the Media Connect is running in there, as that is what is actually doing all the work.

But if that still doesn't work, take a glance at that Twonky product.

Thanks Earl - this def. seems to be the issue. The service is not running, and when I try to start it, I get an error message
1068. "Depency service or group failed to start"
Strange, wonder if a reinstall will fix this issue?

[mrshermanoaks]

Yeah, it def. seems like it's a WMP 11 issue, it just will not process the "Share my Media" function. Like I described before, it just sits there, and does nothing... very strange.

I wonder if I should just try to reinstall WMP 11 on my desktop?

Thanks

I have had to reinstall WMP11 myself recently after it started acting funny. Fixed the problems I was having.

After a red-button reboot of the HR20, it now sees my WMP11. Haven't gotten it to play music yet (clicking select on Music gets me nowhere), but got a photo slideshow to work.

I've got in excess of 25k music files, so I'm curious to see how the HR20 will handle it. Or maybe it can't and that's why I'm having trouble :)

[Earl Bonovich]

Should the HR20 show up under "My Network Places" on Windows XP?

No, I don't think so..
As the HR20 doesn't have any shared folders to serve up...

[packfan909]

I am getting my router to recognize the HR20 and serve out an IP number. However, WMP11 can not find the machine. I can ping my router but not the IP for the HR20.

Any ideas?

[bgullicksen]

If you open up the XP services applet and right click on the Windows Media Control Service and then click on the dependencies tab, you can see what other services need to be running. Then check their status and start them as well. You should be able to isolate which one isn't working and then hopefully turn it on or fix it.




Thanks Earl - this def. seems to be the issue. The service is not running, and when I try to start it, I get an error message 1068. "Depency service or group failed to start"Strange, wonder if a reinstall will fix this issue?

[lguvenoz]

I have had to reinstall WMP11 myself recently after it started acting funny. Fixed the problems I was having.

After a red-button reboot of the HR20, it now sees my WMP11. Haven't gotten it to play music yet (clicking select on Music gets me nowhere), but got a photo slideshow to work.

I've got in excess of 25k music files, so I'm curious to see how the HR20 will handle it. Or maybe it can't and that's why I'm having trouble :)

My machine has not been happy with Music either. The only way I can get it to play on the HR20 is via Playlists which all work fine. Very strange, but my guess is that large libraries are "challenging" for the HR20. I've lost track of the number of songs, but I have about 250 hours worth of music in my library.

In my case I am running the release version of Vista Ultimate on an AMD machine so D* definitely left the door open for the non-ViiV platforms... Thank goodness.

Haven't had a chance to test pictures or videos yet. That will be the interesting piece as I have HD content on my PC recorded under Vista. I am curious as to whether or not it will play.

[mridan]

I do not have any type of media ctr on my pc.OS is windows professional,if i connect with cat5 to my router will I be able to view pictures from my pc?

[blee]

I was able to install WMP 11 on a very old, non-Viiv PC and had no issues connecting the HR20, although I had to reststart the HR20 before WMP was able to "see" it.

On the subject of wireless bridges, I am currently "borrowing" a Linksys WGA54G from my Slingbox while testing this out and have not run into any problems. Does anyone know if somebody makes a wireless bridge with multiple ethernet ports? I have a growing number of devices in my home theatre that require internet connnectivity, and some of them (like the HR20) only support wired connections. It would be nice to service these with a single device vs. having a separate one for each.

[mrshermanoaks]

FYI, I don't seem to be able to play DRM protected files from AOL MusicNow. Not that I expected I would be able to, but just reporting.

So far I've only been able to get a track to play by putting it on a playlist, since nothing happens when I select Music.

[Slump Buster]

I was able to install WMP 11 on a very old, non-Viiv PC and had no issues connecting the HR20, although I had to reststart the HR20 before WMP was able to "see" it.

On the subject of wireless bridges, I am currently "borrowing" a Linksys WGA54G from my Slingbox while testing this out and have not run into any problems. Does anyone know if somebody makes a wireless bridge with multiple ethernet ports? I have a growing number of devices in my home theatre that require internet connnectivity, and some of them (like the HR20) only support wired connections. It would be nice to service these with a single device vs. having a separate one for each.

Just plug a router into it... you can pick them up almost for free after rebate these days.

[blee]

Just plug a router into it... you can pick them up almost for free after rebate these days.

Are you saying that I can just attach all my devices to a generic router, and then connect the WAN port of that router to the wireless bridge? I never considered that, but if that technically works then you've solved my problem :)

[mridan]

I was able to install WMP 11 on a very old, non-Viiv PC and had no issues connecting the HR20, although I had to reststart the HR20 before WMP was able to "see" it.

On the subject of wireless bridges, I am currently "borrowing" a Linksys WGA54G from my Slingbox while testing this out and have not run into any problems. Does anyone know if somebody makes a wireless bridge with multiple ethernet ports? I have a growing number of devices in my home theatre that require internet connnectivity, and some of them (like the HR20) only support wired connections. It would be nice to service these with a single device vs. having a separate one for each.

so if I install wmp 11 ,I should be able to view pictures on my tv via hr20

[MNRingneck]

I just found this on intel's site
How Do I Upgrade From Intel® Viiv™ Software Version 1.0 to Version 1.5?
If you have Intel® Viiv™ technology-based PC with version 1.0 software, you can upgrade to version 1.5 with the purchase of an Intel® Viiv™ technology verified device.

Well I purchased the HR20 so D* should supply it.
This stinks if I can't find it somewhere.

Any update on this yet? I am running a Viiv desktop.

[VLaslow]

I used WMP11 to connect to the HR20 with a wired ethernet connection. Pictures and music play nicely. However, when I press the "list" button, I get this message, "DVR service is not activated on your account...."

If I try to get to the playlist through the Menu key I get: "The copyright holder does not permit viewing of this recorded program."

After that I can change channels on the HR20, but get no picture or sound.

A red reset gets me back to normal.

Anyone else having that kind of issue?

[Slump Buster]

Are you saying that I can just attach all my devices to a generic router, and then connect the WAN port of that router to the wireless bridge? I never considered that, but if that technically works then you've solved my problem :)

Yup, that's it. Actually, a basic one (switch) is a lot easier. It gets a little more confusing if you get one that has the ability to hand out dhcp, firewall, etc. I have a 4 port switch in my home theater to handle a tivo, hr20, slingbox and denon home theater receiver (being single = too much discretionary cash)

[wheelswagz]

With all of the posts, this is becoming a bit confusing to follow....

If there is anyone that has gotten file sharing to work with your HR20 and a XP Pro SP2 running Windows Media Player 11, could you please provide a post with all of the requirements and setup steps for doing so? Do I need Twonky or something other in addition to just XP and WMP11? What setup steps are required on XP/WMP and HR20?

Thanks in advance!!

[renov]

Hey guys. Got the update last night, thanks Earl. Now I just want to verify with you guys that my thinking is correct. I am running XP SP2 and have WMP11 on my desktop. I should be able to use a wireless ethernet adapter like this one http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16833162168 hooked up to my HR20 and be able to stream audio and photos to my tv. Thanks for all your help.

[ram4784]

Using WMP11, everything is set up.
Think I am missing something here and could use some help.
When I select a song (individual or playlist), even when I use shuffle the HR20 only plays one song. The application is still running, but just one song then it stops. I know I'm not doing something. Any help would be appreciated.:confused:

[farjo08]

With all of the posts, this is becoming a bit confusing to follow....

If there is anyone that has gotten file sharing to work with your HR20 and a XP Pro SP2 running Windows Media Player 11, could you please provide a post with all of the requirements and setup steps for doing so? Do I need Twonky or something other in addition to just XP and WMP11? What setup steps are required on XP/WMP and HR20?

Thanks in advance!!

This works. The only requirement is WMP11. It will work fine on Windows XP Pro SP2. You need to install WMP11, create your library (Library -> Add To Library), enable file sharing (Library -> Media Sharing) then allow access to the HR20 (Unknown Device). My recommendation would be to install and configure WMP11 first, then enable the network on the HR20. If you already enabled the network on the HR20 that is fine, but I believe you will need to reboot the HR20 once you have WMP11 configured so that WMP11 will see the HR20 and at that point you can allow access to it.

[farjo08]

Using WMP11, everything is set up.
Think I am missing something here and could use some help.
When I select a song (individual or playlist), even when I use shuffle the HR20 only plays one song. The application is still running, but just one song then it stops. I know I'm not doing something. Any help would be appreciated.:confused:

That is how it works. If you select an individual song, it will only play that one song. If you want to play an entire album (folder) hit play on the album (folder) name and it will play all of the contents in that folder.

[blee]

Yup, that's it. Actually, a basic one (switch) is a lot easier. It gets a little more confusing if you get one that has the ability to hand out dhcp, firewall, etc. I have a 4 port switch in my home theater to handle a tivo, hr20, slingbox and denon home theater receiver (being single = too much discretionary cash)

Thanks. Yeah, I was thinking about using an old Linksys DSL router, but now that you mention a switch I think that's a better way to go.

[mwhaley]

Some more good news.

Success with my Windows 2003 Server...

I used this program
http://www.twonkyvision.de

With the LPCM add-on
http://www.twonkyvision.de/Download/Add-ons/index.html

After setting up the server, setting the directories...
Boom... I was able to see the audio files (didn't try pictures yet).

Granted this solution is not "free" but it is only like $20

I installed this software and configured it on an XP Pro sp2 machine where all my media lives.

The software appears to see everything fine, but my HR20 does not see it, no music menu or any other new menu options and I do have the new update installed and I did configure and test the network connection from the HR20.

[Slump Buster]

Thanks. Yeah, I was thinking about using an old Linksys DSL router, but now that you mention a switch I think that's a better way to go.

Check to see if the router has a mode where it will just act as a switch... I know many of them do. I bet you could get it to work.

[Mike Huss]

With all of the posts, this is becoming a bit confusing to follow....

If there is anyone that has gotten file sharing to work with your HR20 and a XP Pro SP2 running Windows Media Player 11, could you please provide a post with all of the requirements and setup steps for doing so? Do I need Twonky or something other in addition to just XP and WMP11? What setup steps are required on XP/WMP and HR20?

Thanks in advance!!

I think the others covered it for you, I just had to throw a shout out to a fellow Cowboys fan in Wisconsin! :D

I have the same setup as you, glad others are saying it works. Unfortunately I only have about 2 or 3 albums on my pc at home compared with about 7GB of music at work. Time to put the flash drive to work!!

[Slump Buster]

With all of the posts, this is becoming a bit confusing to follow....

If there is anyone that has gotten file sharing to work with your HR20 and a XP Pro SP2 running Windows Media Player 11, could you please provide a post with all of the requirements and setup steps for doing so? Do I need Twonky or something other in addition to just XP and WMP11? What setup steps are required on XP/WMP and HR20?

Thanks in advance!!

I gave up at the point that you did when I tried to install this last year. Just install twonky... you don't need anything else and it takes only minutes to install.

[ram4784]

That is how it works. If you select an individual song, it will only play that one song. If you want to play an entire album (folder) hit play on the album (folder) name and it will play all of the contents in that folder.

I wasn't doing that before, but when I follow your instructions it still only plays the first song in that folder. Maybe it's time for a RBR?

YUP! RBR fixed the problem. Thanks, FARJO!

[VLaslow]

I used WMP11 to connect to the HR20 with a wired ethernet connection. Pictures and music play nicely. However, when I press the "list" button, I get this message, "DVR service is not activated on your account...."

If I try to get to the playlist through the Menu key I get: "The copyright holder does not permit viewing of this recorded program."

After that I can change channels on the HR20, but get no picture or sound.

A red reset gets me back to normal.

Anyone else having that kind of issue?

After a few more resets, red reset wouldn't get rid of the messages. I ended up at third tier D*. They sent the right reset code, I did another red reset and came back ok. They did mention that one other person had this problem (so far..says I).

I think I'll sit back and see what happens for awhile. It's fun to be ahead of the curve but not if it's on a roller coaster.

[belboz]

For a possible free solution you might want to try tversity

www.tversity.com

It is a UPnP AV / DLNA compliant media server.

I will give it a shot tonight when I get home.

[Jeremy W]

For a possible free solution you might want to try tversity
That looks like a very interesting program. I'm going to try it right now.

[belboz]

I use it right now with my xbox360. It will stream pretty much any video file and re-encode on the fly to a format the 360 can handle.

If it doesn't work now, I bet it will down the road. It has a very active development community.

[Jeremy W]

Using just the default stuff that comes with TVersity, I was only able to get the Photos working. The Internet audio would not work. When I'd click on them, it would just sit there and do nothing. I suspect the HR20 just doesn't like streaming audio. That's the reason I was interested in TVersity in the first place, so I'm just going to uninstall it.

[jbstix]

If you open up the XP services applet and right click on the Windows Media Control Service and then click on the dependencies tab, you can see what other services need to be running. Then check their status and start them as well. You should be able to isolate which one isn't working and then hopefully turn it on or fix it.

Ok, this got me going! Thanks Earl and bgullicksen, you guys were right on the money!

Administrative tools and then to Services
Try to start Windows Media Connect Service
Upon receiving the error, Right Click on Windows Media Connect Service go to Properties
Go to Dependencies
Note each of the listed services
Go to each one and set them all to Manual...Then try starting the windows media connect service. Set the service to automatic aswell.

Note...you should have these servies enables:
SSDP Discovery Service
HTTP SSL
Universal Plug and play device host

I believe you also need windows firewall service enabled

Some firewalls (in particular winroute firewall) disables these required services.

Some firewalls...one in particular
I just setup the 3 services listed, then set them up to start automatically - then started Media Player Network Sharing service.
Now both machines show up on the HR20!

Hope this helps someone else - and thanks for the input!!!

[belboz]

So you didn't try using it for MP3 streaming from your hard drive?

Using just the default stuff that comes with TVersity, I was only able to get the Photos working. The Internet audio would not work. When I'd click on them, it would just sit there and do nothing. I suspect the HR20 just doesn't like streaming audio. That's the reason I was interested in TVersity in the first place, so I'm just going to uninstall it.

[Jeremy W]

So you didn't try using it for MP3 streaming from your hard drive?
No, there's no reason to for me. I'd rather just use WMP11 than run an additional piece of software that doesn't add any new features.

But since TVersity is DLNA certified, I'd imagine that the MP3s would work just fine on the HR20.

[Mixer]

Same thing for me. WMP 11 XP Home Service Pack 2

I can not get this to work. When I click the "Allow sharing" checkbox it doesn't take and no other options show up.

EDIT: I meant "Share My Media" checkbox.

[jbstix]

Same thing for me. WMP 11 XP Home Service Pack 2

Try the steps in my post above... see if that works.

[davidord]

I was able to get my Windows MCE 2005 laptop and my desktop Windows XP Home to connect and play through Media Player 11. However, I had to update my desktop to the latest version of Media Player 11. Additionally, it took nearly five minutes for the Media Player to recognize the HR20. On the laptop, the music folders showed up and played right away. I'm not having any trouble playing MP3's or WMA files.But, at this point, I've only been able to get playlists to play from the desktop. I only had an hour for lunch, so I haven't messed with it yet. The picture folders worked on both computers, but it does take some time for the HR20 to access the pictures and the music on either computer.

[Hutchinshouse]

I installed this software and configured it on an XP Pro sp2 machine where all my media lives.

The software appears to see everything fine, but my HR20 does not see it, no music menu or any other new menu options and I do have the new update installed and I did configure and test the network connection from the HR20.

I had the same problem. Even though the HR20 said I was connected and it had an ip address, I truly wasn't connected to my router. When I tried to ping the HR20 I didn't get a reply. Once I restarted the recorded (within restart menu) the HR20 replied to my pings and the new menu options were now available.

Restart the recorded and see if it helps.

[swedishcancerboi]

I was having problems dispaying pictures on the hr20. I would count forward to the next picture, but never change the actual picture.
Today, pictures work great.

However, so far I have only been able to get about 15 minutes of play time out of music stream. System keeps telling me that the server logged off. Thought it might be a router problem, I do have problems out of it rebooting at random, but it didn't reboot at that time. Connection seems good, I can still see it on WMP and on my route table. Anyone else having this problem?

My system is:
Hard-wired HR20
D-Link wireless router
Windows Pro x64 SP1

Anyone have a similar setup?

[Mixer]

Thanks. I am going to try this for sure.

Ok, this got me going! Thanks Earl and bgullicksen, you guys were right on the money!

Administrative tools and then to Services
Try to start Windows Media Connect Service
Upon receiving the error, Right Click on Windows Media Connect Service go to Properties
Go to Dependencies
Note each of the listed services
Go to each one and set them all to Manual...Then try starting the windows media connect service. Set the service to automatic aswell.

Note...you should have these servies enables:
SSDP Discovery Service
HTTP SSL
Universal Plug and play device host

I believe you also need windows firewall service enabled

Some firewalls (in particular winroute firewall) disables these required services.

Some firewalls...one in particular
I just setup the 3 services listed, then set them up to start automatically - then started Media Player Network Sharing service.
Now both machines show up on the HR20!

Hope this helps someone else - and thanks for the input!!!

[Slip Jigs]

1. Confirmed no-play any DRM tracks. This includes purchased tracks from a music service. They are still licensed, but still protected with a finite number of times they can be burned to a CD.

2. Playable music files will have the "eighth-note" icon next to the song title - the DRM tracks won't have it, but the titles will still show. (hopefully this indicates future functionality)

3. The Yahoo Music Player has media server in it, and it shows in the list. However, attempting to select it hangs the box for a short while.

4. The transport controls are quirky when playing a song - I couldn't get it to stop - I changed the video channel and that stopped it.

5. General quirks - hard to navigate the library at times, when song starts, menu goes away and have to start all over again to select another song.

6. WMP 11 automatically adds c:\Documents and Settings as a shared folder, It can't be removed, but it can be ignored. When it's enabled however, you can browse the entire contents of the folder from the HR20! This is from the Pictures - Folders path.

[bagleyb]

I'm streaming from my iMac G5 with Twonky. I have the same pictures on my XP box, and they look the same with Twonky on XP or WMP11.

I have an 8MP Olympus Digital SLR camera, and thought they'd look better on my TV than they do.

[houskamp]

streaming from basic xp home box with mp11 to hr 20.. could use a much better interface but IT WORKS :D:D

[houskamp]

Right now, I'm running XP SP2 with Windows Media Player 11. Has anyone confirmed if the HR20 is able to connect in the current setup?

Maybe I'll need to upgrade to Vista. Wasn't planning on it. :-/

yep works fine.. see above..

[swedishcancerboi]

Don't know if anyone else has noticed this......

I am viewing a slide show, and brought up MyPlaylist, not sure what I did, but the menu went transparent so I can see the pictures in the background instead of just 'blue'

[swedishcancerboi]

Wonder if this could work while viewing live tv?

[nocaster]

Wonder if this could work while viewing live tv?

It will play your music while watching live TV. If you change the channel your music will drop though.

[Ed-Williams]

Hi there….

Just to let all you know that I’m running Vista on 2 PCs on a home network (wired Netgear
Cable/Router), I just connected my HR20 to the network and I can watch my pictures
and play music simultaneously. A very simple and effective way to enjoy slideshows without
having to use a computer or burning DVDs!!

I just configured the “Sharing Options” on Windows Media Player 11 to allow the program
to share all my music and pictures and that’s it.

When opening the Vista “Network” folder, there is a very cool icon named “Direct Plus HD DVR”
along the icons of the others PCs I have connected to the network.

The pictures are changing somehow slow, but probably it is because there are large Jpg files,
I’ll try next weekend with smaller.

The HR20 is getting better and better………..very nice :D

Thanks to Earl to let us know about this new amazing feature.


Regards,
Ed.

[Barmat]

Windows XP pro Sp2, Windows Media Player 11.

I couldn't get the HR20 to see any of my computers untill I did a Red Button Reset.
I don't think the HR20 likes large directories at all. It froze trying to access a 150+GB music directory.

If this can be made to work, this will be one heck of a killer feature.

[Earl Bonovich]

Windows XP pro Sp2, Windows Media Player 11.

I couldn't get the HR20 to see any of my computers untill I did a Red Button Reset.
I don't think the HR20 likes large directories at all. It froze trying to access a 150+GB music directory.

If this can be made to work, this will be one heck of a killer feature.

150GB could be one very large file.. :)

What is the count of files in that directory.

[dvrblogger]

I have had to reinstall WMP11 myself recently after it started acting funny. Fixed the problems I was having.

After a red-button reboot of the HR20, it now sees my WMP11. Haven't gotten it to play music yet (clicking select on Music gets me nowhere), but got a photo slideshow to work.

I've got in excess of 25k music files, so I'm curious to see how the HR20 will handle it. Or maybe it can't and that's why I'm having trouble :)

try setting PC up to share only 1 directory or something to try and isolate or try www.tonkyvision.de on a subset of files. What format are files ?

[dvrblogger]

After a few more resets, red reset wouldn't get rid of the messages. I ended up at third tier D*. They sent the right reset code, I did another red reset and came back ok. They did mention that one other person had this problem (so far..says I).

I think I'll sit back and see what happens for awhile. It's fun to be ahead of the curve but not if it's on a roller coaster.

Thi ssounds likean HDMI issue are you using component or HDMI ?

[dvrblogger]

Using just the default stuff that comes with TVersity, I was only able to get the Photos working. The Internet audio would not work. When I'd click on them, it would just sit there and do nothing. I suspect the HR20 just doesn't like streaming audio. That's the reason I was interested in TVersity in the first place, so I'm just going to uninstall it.
you need to stream LPCM to HR20 so if your server can transode it will owkr otherwise you need to wait til other formats are supported.

[dvrblogger]

Don't know if anyone else has noticed this......

I am viewing a slide show, and brought up MyPlaylist, not sure what I did, but the menu went transparent so I can see the pictures in the background instead of just 'blue'

There seems to be a bug if you play slide show or music when a menu such as guid eor playlist are on screen. Go to a video channel and then play slideshow,

[dvrblogger]

150GB could be one very large file.. :)

What is the count of files in that directory.
maybe it takes an hour to catalog all the files.

[mridan]

just connected hr20 with eternet cable to my router.windows xp pro service pack2 and just downloaded wmp11,had to reboot hr20 but now stream music and photos.are you able to change speed of slideshow or manually get thru pictures quickly?

[Barmat]

maybe it takes an hour to catalog all the files.

I've never tried to find out how many files I have. All I know is it's a whole boatload.:D

I'm networking my spare HR20(they messed my order up and sent me two for free). So i turned off the TV and went downstairs to have dinner. I'll check up on it in a few(hours).

[dvrblogger]

just connected hr20 with eternet cable to my router.windows xp pro service pack2 and just downloaded wmp11,had to reboot hr20 but now stream music and photos.are you able to change speed of slideshow or manually get thru pictures quickly?
speed is fixed but you can use FF and Rew to move ahead and back on songs and photos but don't try to skip too many at a time .

[fpd917]

If anyone figures out how to get this to work with a iMac or iBook let me know. I use a airport for my wireless connection and I have a linksys bridge that I can use if needed. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Both are G4 with the latest software, and they are not intel macs,

[packfan909]

you need to stream LPCM to HR20 so if your server can transode it will owkr otherwise you need to wait til other formats are supported.

I have gotten Twonky to work but really would like to use TVersity. Looking at the server settings how would I know that LPCM is how it is being streamed? Is this by picking a similar device type? Auto and the other uPnP Device settings do not work.

Has anyone gotten this to work beyond images?

[Twosted]

Ok, this got me going! Thanks Earl and bgullicksen, you guys were right on the money!

Administrative tools and then to Services
Try to start Windows Media Connect Service
Upon receiving the error, Right Click on Windows Media Connect Service go to Properties
Go to Dependencies
Note each of the listed services
Go to each one and set them all to Manual...Then try starting the windows media connect service. Set the service to automatic aswell.

Note...you should have these servies enables:
SSDP Discovery Service
HTTP SSL
Universal Plug and play device host

I believe you also need windows firewall service enabled

Some firewalls (in particular winroute firewall) disables these required services.

Some firewalls...one in particular
I just setup the 3 services listed, then set them up to start automatically - then started Media Player Network Sharing service.
Now both machines show up on the HR20!

Hope this helps someone else - and thanks for the input!!!

BINGO!!!!! You are the man. I did everything you said and now it works perfectly.:goodjob:

[dvrblogger]

If anyone figures out how to get this to work with a iMac or iBook let me know. I use a airport for my wireless connection and I have a linksys bridge that I can use if needed. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Both are G4 with the latest software, and they are not intel macs,
Several people have reported luck with media server from www.twonkyvision.de works on Mac,Linux and Windows. I believe you need an LPCM plug in also available there.

[baimo]

I have vista rc2 on laptop and desktop. The laptop showed immediately and I was able tro access everything without any tweaks. The desktop required twonk.

Its pretty cool but all in all does nothing for me as I have my ipod(with all my music) hooked up to my pioneer elite receiver. The interface from the pioneer on the tv is similar to the ipods interface amd therefore much nicer than the hr20 interface.

It would be nice if they enabled some videos to be networked but presently I can only see the video folder.

[Slip Jigs]

I have vista rc2 on laptop and desktop. The laptop showed immediately and I was able tro access everything without any tweaks. The desktop required twonk.

Its pretty cool but all in all does nothing for me as I have my ipod(with all my music) hooked up to my pioneer elite receiver. The interface from the pioneer on the tv is similar to the ipods interface amd therefore much nicer than the hr20 interface.

It would be nice if they enabled some videos to be networked but presently I can only see the video folder.

It's true that there are much better music devices out there and media extenders, but this is obviously in it's infancy and will probably evolve. Still, there seems to be little if no compatibility between iPod/iTunes and any Windows format devices, so I wouldn't hold my breath for that!

[Slump Buster]

It's true that there are much better music devices out there and media extenders, but this is obviously in it's infancy and will probably evolve. Still, there seems to be little if no compatibility between iPod/iTunes and any Windows format devices, so I wouldn't hold my breath for that!

According to Twonky's user forum, you can mount an iPod as a USB device and the server will recognize it. The main page says iTunes is supported.

[mikeny]

Hey guys. Got the update last night, thanks Earl. Now I just want to verify with you guys that my thinking is correct. I am running XP SP2 and have WMP11 on my desktop. I should be able to use a wireless ethernet adapter like this one http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.asp?Item=N82E16833162168 hooked up to my HR20 and be able to stream audio and photos to my tv. Thanks for all your help.
I ordered that Buffalo Ethernet Converter through them also last night. It looks very promising. I ordered a ton of cable also if it doesn't work. Now: would 2 of those Buffalo Converters work? 1 for one HR20 on one floor and 1 for another HR20 on another floor?

[Slip Jigs]

According to Twonky's user forum, you can mount an iPod as a USB device and the server will recognize it. The main page says iTunes is supported.

That may be - but it's about whether or not the streaming device (HR20) will support it - it has to recognize the filetype (AAC) and be able to handle the iTunes copy protection.

[elas123]

i have a sony vaio laptop and it comes with vaio media server and the hr20 recognised it and works perfect.

[bagleyb]

The HR20 will see all of the songs, even if it can't play them. One thing I've noticed, it will put a music note next to the songs that it can play.

It sees everything I have in iTunes, but the notes are only next to the mp3's I have loaded into iTunes.

[mridan]

i have a sony vaio laptop and it comes with vaio media server and the hr20 recognised it and works perfect.

Mine also works ,can watch slide show while playing music in backround. P.C. with Windows pro. with WMP11.I thought it would not work unless you had viiv?

[Earl Bonovich]

I'll post it here, even though it has been asked all over the place.

I just got an email update;
The ViiV 1.5 update, so you can actually use the actual "ViiV", should be available next week. Intel and DirecTV are hammering out some final details

[baimo]

It's true that there are much better music devices out there and media extenders, but this is obviously in it's infancy and will probably evolve. Still, there seems to be little if no compatibility between iPod/iTunes and any Windows format devices, so I wouldn't hold my breath for that!

I think that networking all our devices(HT, computer, telephone) is the future. As the interfaces and connectivity issues mature, we will all be able to see all our recorded shows on all our tv sets and listen to our music on all our music devices throughout our households. No doubt about it. But for the present, the Ipod interface is very good and intuitive and I have not found anything I would prefer using.
I bought an extra ipod just so I could have it hooked up to my receiver at all times and have the interface on the screen of my tv. My receiver is also xm-ready and they now are offering a pretty good interface for that when hooked up to the new mini-tuner.

In the near future hopefully I will not need to buy extra media-extenders to listen to or watch media that I already have and own, but reside on other devices

[baimo]

Mine also works ,can watch slide show while playing music in backround. P.C. with Windows pro. with WMP11.I thought it would not work unless you had viiv?

My laptop is a vaio also. I upgraded the os to vista, but it still intefaces with the hr20 without any tweaking at all. Swet

[Slump Buster]

That may be - but it's about whether or not the streaming device (HR20) will support it - it has to recognize the filetype (AAC) and be able to handle the iTunes copy protection.

Ah, thanks for the clarification! I'm out of the loop when it comes to iPods.... I just never understood why so many people signed up to buy such restricted music.

[dconfer]

I'll post it here, even though it has been asked all over the place.

I just got an email update;
The ViiV 1.5 update, so you can actually use the actual "ViiV", should be available next week. Intel and DirecTV are hammering out some final details

Thank you for this info. I didnt let santa visit me because I could not use any of these features but now that everybody got it to work I am kicking myself.

[jeffherbst]

Help. My entire network is hard wired, The HR-20 is connected and passes all of it's tests. It shows a correct IP address on my subnet block. The router DHCP table shows that it gave an address to "Directv HR-20". But I cannot ping it and it does not show up in a IP scanner. I have reset by the red button twice and by the menu once.
I know it's there as the routers DHCP table shows it, but it does not show up on the network. Any ideas?

[iacas]

Ah, thanks for the clarification! I'm out of the loop when it comes to iPods.... I just never understood why so many people signed up to buy such restricted music.

The iPod has nothing to do with DRMed music except that it CAN play music bought through the iTunes Store.

It can also play music ripped from my own CDs. Or podcasts I download from C|Net or other sources (like Ze Frank's "the show" or my own site). It plays unprotected MP3s and always has, right alongside other unprotected formats in both video and audio formats.

I know plenty of people that own an iPod yet don't own a single piece of "restricted" music.

[VLaslow]

After a few more resets, red reset wouldn't get rid of the messages. I ended up at third tier D*. They sent the right reset code, I did another red reset and came back ok. They did mention that one other person had this problem (so far..says I).

I think I'll sit back and see what happens for awhile. It's fun to be ahead of the curve but not if it's on a roller coaster.

When I switched routers from an Airlink 101 Wireless, purchased at Fry's to a Linksys wireless WRT54GC I was able to stream music and photos without the error messages I had been getting.

I'm hoping it's merely a setting in the Airlink router that I can change. For the money, $30, it's been a great wireless router.

[dconfer]

Has anyone gotten two HR20 to connect on the network, and use the same pc? I have two HR20 and this would be great.

[packfan909]

Help. My entire network is hard wired, The HR-20 is connected and passes all of it's tests. It shows a correct IP address on my subnet block. The router DHCP table shows that it gave an address to "Directv HR-20". But I cannot ping it and it does not show up in a IP scanner. I have reset by the red button twice and by the menu once.
I know it's there as the routers DHCP table shows it, but it does not show up on the network. Any ideas?

Hi Jeff. I had the same problems yesterday. There may be a solution to this but I gave up and used a different server package. Twonkymedia works perfectly for mp3 files (if you have AAC's from iTunes they will not work).

Go to www.twonkyvision.com and download the twonkymedia server.

edit ---> Make sure you also install the plugin for LPCM transcoding at the following address:
http://www.twonkyvision.com/Download/Add-ons/index.html

You need this for our HR20's to process the audio files.

It is a 30 day eval and you will have to purchase it next month for about 40 dollars. However, the time may allow people to get a solution for our issue and get WMP11 working or find another free alternative. Although, I really like twonky as there are shuffle functions within the pictures and music which I don't believe WMP11 will do.

Check it out!

[jeffherbst]

Thanks Packfan99.

I actually have Twonky installed. I did not have the FLAC installed. I just installed it and still no connect.
How about a step by step of how you did yours?

[Cyrus]

Help. My entire network is hard wired, The HR-20 is connected and passes all of it's tests. It shows a correct IP address on my subnet block. The router DHCP table shows that it gave an address to "Directv HR-20". But I cannot ping it and it does not show up in a IP scanner. I have reset by the red button twice and by the menu once.
I know it's there as the routers DHCP table shows it, but it does not show up on the network. Any ideas?

You shouldn't bother with the ping command. It appears that HR20 has some kind of firewall (as well it should) and ping is one of the things it doesn't respond to.

[nocaster]

Ah, thanks for the clarification! I'm out of the loop when it comes to iPods.... I just never understood why so many people signed up to buy such restricted music.

iTunes has DRM. The iPod itself will play any non DRM mp3's from any source.

[bagleyb]

iTunes has DRM. The iPod itself will play any non DRM mp3's from any source.

As will iTunes. It's only the songs you buy from the iTunes Music Store that have DRM, as well they should.

[thekochs]

So, has anyone gotten the HR20 to connect to a standard PC with just XP running and playback MPEG and/or VOB/IFO files ?

[jeffherbst]

OK, Thanks for the help guys.
Twonkyvision with the FLAC installed did the trick. See post from Packfan99 for links.

FYI. I am running a Pentium 4 2.8g based computer that I built myself. No Viiv here!
Windows XP service pack 2, twonkyvision, no WMP .
So you don not need the Viiv to make this work. Now all I have to do is convert all that itunes stuff from m4a to MP3!

[thekochs]

OK, Thanks for the help guys.
Twonkyvision with the FLAC installed did the trick. See post from Packfan99 for links.

FYI. I am running a Pentium 4 2.8g based computer that I built myself. No Viiv here!
Windows XP service pack 2, twonkyvision, no WMP .
So you don not need the Viiv to make this work. Now all I have to do is convert all that itunes stuff from m4a to MP3!

First for you: http://free-wma-to-mp3-converter.en.softonic.com/ie/48461

Have you run/served any video ? MPEG ? VOB/IFO ? AVI ? If so, I'm wondering what does the playback....I assume HR20 and that the DVD player software on the PC is not running.

[davidord]

I was able to get WMP 11 to work yesterday. But, my guess is since I have over 6,000 songs in "My Music" folder, the HR20 is slow to load or won't load the music. I was only able to get the HR20 to play playlists that I created. Also, it seemed to have trouble staying connected. I lost connection the the computer after a few minutes, and it is very slow to respond to next song commands.

So, I installed the demo version of TwonkyMedia. After some time, Twonky found all of my media and the HR20 recognized it, pics and songs (MP3's and WMA's), but I am
unable to play the music. I downloaded the patch, and hit the executable file and a black box appeared and went away, so I assume it loaded the patch.

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Maybe, I just found my problem. I hit the patch but I didn't put it in the cgi bin folder. I'm assuming this is my problem. Does this sound right?

[Barmat]

Same here no individual music files or folders(to large directory) but playlists work.

[Earl Bonovich]

Maybe, I just found my problem. I hit the patch but I didn't put it in the cgi bin folder. I'm assuming this is my problem. Does this sound right?

Yes, the "plug-in" needs to be in the right spot, and Twonky needs to be restarted afterwards.

[jbstix]

BINGO!!!!! You are the man. I did everything you said and now it works perfectly.:goodjob:

Glad that did the trick Twosted! Maybe this info will help some others...

It depends on set up I guess - I had no problems with my laptop beeing seen and starting the WMP Sharing service (XP Home SP2) but my Desktop (XP Pro SP2) was the a different story, and I had to do those steps.

good luck to everyone