How can I use the Direct TV tivos without Direct TV?

[sishac]

I currently use Direct TV and I will be switching over to Verizon Fios shortly. My issue/question is this...I currently use Direct TV's DVR service...I have 2 DVRs with them...one is an older Series 1 Tivo model (with integrated Direct TV box) , and the other is their Direct TV DVR.

As I won't be using Direct TV anymore, I'm assuming that I can't use the two DVRs anymore....the problem is that they are just about full of movies/tv shows that I don't want to lose. As these machines are basically hard drives, is it possible for me to essentially download or transfer the data to an external hard drive that I can then either attach to my new Fios DVR, or burn onto DVDs on my PowerMac with DVD burner (using Popcorn or something like that?)

If not, how can I watch the shows from my direct tv dvrs (both the tivo and non-tivo boxes) on my TV without subscribing to direct tv anymore?

Thanks,

Tom

[Earl Bonovich]

Just disconnect them from the SAT signal, before deactivating.
And don't hook them up to a SAT signal again.

This will allow you to access the previousl recorded shows.

You can not transfer the contents to a FIOS DVR...

You could use a standalone DVR burner to make disks..
Or you can use an analog video capture device to record each one to your PowerMac, and then burn the DVDs

[captain_video]

If you've gotten used to Tivos then consider getting an S3 Tivo to use with FIOS. Depending on which FIOS system you're connected to, the monthly fees for the two required cablecards can be anywhere from about $3 up to about $10 per month for both. You can buy the Tivo service in advance for $299 for a 3-year deal, or about $8.31 per month. I think you'll find the S3 has far more to offer than the Motorola DVR they use with FIOS. They're available from Costco online for $599 at the moment, which is about the lowest price I've seen so far. I've got FIOS and an S3 and I love them both.