DirecTV PLUS DVR User Manual
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DirecTV PLUS DVR User Manual

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DVR RECEIVERS
DVR RECEIVERS
USER GUIDE
USER GUIDE
DIRECTV PLUS
DIRECTV PLUS
DIRECTV PLUS
DIRECTV PLUS
HD DVR
HD DVR
®
®
DVR
DVR
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Summary of Contents for DirecTV PLUS DVR

  • Page 1 DVR RECEIVERS DVR RECEIVERS USER GUIDE USER GUIDE DIRECTV PLUS HD DVR DIRECTV PLUS HD DVR ® ® DIRECTV PLUS DIRECTV PLUS ® ®...
  • Page 2 Your receiver is ENERGY STAR qualified, giving you the benefit of saving energy and helping our environment (This may not apply to older models). When used in conjunction with a DIRECTV Subscription, this receiver meets ENERGY STAR criteria without requiring the consumer to take any additional...

  • Page 3: Welcome To The Directv Family

    IMP ORTA N T: • You must subscribe to DIRECTV DVR service in order to use the recording features. • You must subscribe to HD Access in order to be able to view the HD channels included in your programming package.

  • Page 4: Table Of Contents

    TAB LE OF CO NTE N TS TAB L E OF C ON TE NTS Welcome to the DIRECTV Family ........3 Interactive Channels ...............21 Channel Banners ..............23 Product Information ...........8 Main Menu ................23 Notes ................9 DIRECTV Cinema and Pay Per View Events ®...
  • Page 5 Managing My Playlist .............45 Recent Searches ..............64 Multi-Room Viewing ..............47 Search for Shows (SD DVR Receivers) ....65 DIRECTV on DEMAND ..........52 Search by Title .................65 Finding On DEMAND Shows ...........52 Search by Person ..............66 Channels On Demand .............53 Search by Channel ..............67 Cinema On Demand ..............54...
  • Page 6 System Setup ................86 Resetting/Reauthorizing Your Receiver .......106 Help Topics and FAQS ............98 System Software Updates ............106 On-Screen Error Messages ...........107 DIRECTV Receiver or TV Problems ......108 Recorded TV Troubleshooting ......... 116 Remote Control Problems ........120 Running the System Test ......... 121...
  • Page 7 CHAPTER 5: WARRANTY & OTHER INFORMATION Limited 90-Day Warranty ........124 DIRECTV Protection Plan .........127 FCC Customer Information ........129 Terms & Conditions for Use of Software ....133 APPENDICES Appendix 1: Receivers Front and Back Panels ..138 Appendix 2: How to Network Your DVR ....146 Appendix 3: About High-Definition ......154...

  • Page 8: Product Information

    These numbers are typically behind the card door on the front panel of your receiver.* Model No. * Serial No. Acquisition Date Dealer/Address/Phone Access Card * Receiver ID * DIRECTV PLUS DVR USER GUIDE ®...

  • Page 9: Notes

    Notes...

  • Page 10: Safety & Care

    Safety & Care Your DIRECTV ® Receiver has been designed and manufactured to stringent quality and safety standards. You should, however, be aware of the following important precautions for safe and optimal use of the equipment. Meaning of symbols printed on the rear panel of the product: This symbol indicates that dangerous voltage consisting a risk of electric shock is present within this unit.
  • Page 11 Blocking the airflow to the unit could impair performance or damage your receiver and other components. electric shock, do not expose this product • Do not stack electronic components or other objects on top of the DIRECTV ® Receiver. Also, do not stack the receiver on top of a to rain or moisture.
  • Page 12 DIRECTV PLUS DVR USER GUIDE ®...

  • Page 13: Chapter 1: Quick Start

    CHAPTER 1 - QUICK START USING YOUR REMOTE CONTROL ........14 VIEWING LIVE TELEVISION ..........18 RECORDING PROGRAMS..........25...

  • Page 14: Using Your Remote Control

    Each time you press a button, a green light at the top of the remote flashes. If the light flashes several times for just one press, it means the batteries (size AA) are getting low and need to be replaced. These two buttons turn your TV and DIRECTV Receiver on or off ®...

  • Page 15: Navigation And Destination Buttons

    Press the GUIDE button to go to the program guide screen. Press the ACTIVE button to go to the DIRECTV Interactive services home page. The LIST button takes you to the Playlist. See Chapter 2, “My Playlist” for details. Press EXIT to get out of any menu screen and return to live TV. Use the ARROW buttons and SELECT button to navigate though the guide or any menu screen.

  • Page 16: Dvr Control Buttons

    Some Standard-Definition DVRs (models R15/R16) work previous 15-minute tickmark.* (Pressing play differently. If you have one of these receivers, press and returns to normal play.) hold the REW or FFWD buttons to skip to the previous or next tickmark. DIRECTV PLUS DVR USER GUIDE ®...

  • Page 17: The Progress Bar

    Using Your Remote Control The Progress Bar When you use the DVR control buttons, this indicator bar appears at the bottom of the screen to show where you are in the program and how far you can go forward or back. For live programs, the progress bar is green and the time shown is the time of day.

  • Page 18: Viewing Live Television

    See Chapter 2 “Program Guide Features and Options, Filtering the Guide” for details. Look for shortcut hints here. Local Channels Your DIRECTV-provided local channels can be found in the guide from channel numbers 2 through 69. DIRECTV PLUS DVR USER GUIDE...

  • Page 19: Hd & Sd Channels

    Viewing Live Television HD and SD Channels DIRECTV has a tremendous offering of HD channels and they are spread throughout the guide. To find them, look for HD after the channel call sign (i.e. STZHD or CNNHD) in the channel column of the guide and also look for HD after the program title in the guide.

  • Page 20: Guide Banners

    Press SELECT on the new show if you want to go to that channel. One-line mini-guide DIRECTV PLUS DVR USER GUIDE ®...

  • Page 21: Interactive Channels

    Viewing Live Television Interactive Channels Interactive channels are unique. In addition to video and audio, they also contain a software application that lets you interact with what you see on screen. When accessing these channels you will have to wait a few seconds for the software to download.
  • Page 22 Look for an on-screen popup that lets you know when interactive content is available and follow the on-screen instructions to use the interactive features. DIRECTV PLUS DVR USER GUIDE ®...

  • Page 23: Channel Banners

    Viewing Live Television Icons Channel Banner When you find a current show in the guide that you want to watch, press SELECT and the receiver will tune to that channel. A channel banner will briefly display at the top of the screen, showing you the program name, channel number, date, time and other information.

  • Page 24: Directv Cinema ® And Pay Per View Events

    List.” Highlight the program and press the RED button to cancel it. Note: You can also order your Cinema On Demand movies and Pay Per View events on the Internet at directv.com or over the phone at 1-800-DIRECTV. Keep in mind, though, there is an additional ordering fee for purchases placed over the phone.

  • Page 25: Recording Programs

    Note: You can record two shows at the same time with your DIRECTV DVR if you have made the proper connections to your satellite dish.
  • Page 26 “Keep Recording,” “Change Recording Options, or “Stop Recording.” On a Standard-Definition receiver, the options are “Cancel This” and “Don’t Cancel.” This is an easy way to cancel a recording. DIRECTV PLUS DVR USER GUIDE ®...

  • Page 27: Recording An Entire Series

    Recording Programs Recording an Entire Series From Live TV If the show you are currently watching is a series and not a single event (like a movie), simply press the RECORD button twice to automatically record every episode of the series. The RECORD icon is now a repeated circle R to let you know that this is a series and not a single recording.

  • Page 28: Watching And Deleting Your Recorded Shows

    If you want to delete a show from your playlist, use the arrow keys to highlight the desired show and press the RED button. You will then be Look for shortcut asked to confirm the deletion. hints here. DIRECTV PLUS DVR USER GUIDE ®...

  • Page 29: Chapter 2: Detailed Information

    PROGRAM GUIDE FEATURES AND OPTIONS ......LIVE TV FEATURES AND OPTIONS ......... RECORDED TV SPECIAL FEATURES........37 MAIN MENU OVERVIEW ...............40 MY PLAYLIST ..............43 DIRECTV ON DEMAND .............54 SMART SEARCH (HD DVR Receivers) ......57 ™ SEARCH FOR SHOWS (SD DVR Receivers) ......65 MANAGE RECORDINGS ..........69...

  • Page 30: Program Guide Features And Options

    Look for the label in the bottom left of the guide to see how it is being filtered. Note: Since the filtering is temporary, it only lasts as long as you keep the program guide up on the screen. Look here to see how the guide is being filtered. DIRECTV PLUS DVR USER GUIDE ®...

  • Page 31: Guide Options

    Select “Jump to a date & time” to quickly go to a future date and time in the guide. Change Favorites List By default, your program guide displays all channels offered by DIRECTV, some of which may not be in your programming package. “Change favorites list” allows you to toggle the channels displayed in your guide between any of the following: “All Channels,”...

  • Page 32: Live Tv Features And Options

    -Definition Receivers Displays an on-screen transcription of a program’s soundtrack. Select “DIRECTV Subtitling” or “Closed Captioning” to toggle it ON or OFF. Both options display the same text so only one or the other can be “ON” at a time. The display format is the only difference so check out both to determine your preference.
  • Page 33 Live TV Features and Options Change Favorites List “Change Favorites List” allows you to select a custom list of channels that you want to see when channel surfing in live TV. You can toggle between “All Channels” (some of which may not be in your programming package), “Channels I Get”...

  • Page 34: Live Buffer

    PREV(ious) button on the remote to toggle between them. DIRECTV PLUS DVR USER GUIDE ®...

  • Page 35: Doubleplay

    Live TV Features and Options DoublePlay ™ Program 2 Watching Program 1 Program 1 High -Definition Receivers With DoublePlay you can easily switch between two programs on ™ at the same time without missing a minute of either. Your HD DVR stores up to 90 minutes of live TV on two channels.

  • Page 36: Quicktune

    Sports blackouts, a long time source of frustration and confusion for sports fans, occur when a sporting event is not televised in a certain area. But thanks to DIRECTV’s cutting-edge technology, whenever you tune in to a channel with a blacked-out game, GameSearch recognizes the blackout and ™...

  • Page 37: Recorded Tv Special Features

    Recorded TV Special Features Bookmarks For shows you have already recorded, press PAUSE and then press the GREEN button to bookmark your favorite scene. You can then press and hold the FAST- FORWARD or REWIND buttons as appropriate to advance or return to that scene.

  • Page 38: Recording From A Computer Or Phone

    Have you ever forgotten to set a recording and wish you could do it remotely from work or while on the go? Now you can with DIRECTV’s DVR Scheduler. A brief description of the process is provided below, but go to directv.com/ dvrscheduler for all the details.
  • Page 39 Sign in with your user name and passcode. (As with the PC, you must be registered as a user on directv.com before you can use remote scheduling.) Use the Search for Shows feature to find your program based on Title &...

  • Page 40: Main Menu - Overview

    - Connect your DVR to your high-speed Internet service to gain access to thousands of free and Pay Per View titles. Note: To enjoy the DIRECTV on DEMAND service, you need a connection to the Internet, HD Access and DVR service, broadband Internet service with...
  • Page 41 Caller ID service from your telephone provider). TV Mail - DIRECTV Messages to you about new features, free views, tips & tricks and more. Parental, Fav’s & Setup - Set parental control limits, choose favorite...
  • Page 42 TV Mail & Caller ID - Contains a log of the phone calls into your home (assuming you have a connected land line and subscribe to Caller ID service from your telephone provider), as well as DIRECTV System ® messages to you.

  • Page 43: My Playlist

    My Playlist My Playlist The Playlist screen displays all your recorded programs. To get to the Playlist screen directly, press LIST on the remote, or press MENU and select “My Playlist.” Titles that you have not viewed yet are shown in bright, white letters, while titles that you have already viewed (partially or completely), are light blue.

  • Page 44: Playlist Options

    (that’s the factory default setting), the oldest at the top; alphabetically with A at the top, or Z at the top; by expiration date with first to expire at the top or last to expire at the top. DIRECTV PLUS DVR USER GUIDE...

  • Page 45: Managing My Playlist

    My Playlist Open/Close All Series programs are grouped in folders in your Playlist. Select “Open/Close All” to open all of your folders so you can see each episode without having to select each series individually. You can also use this option to close them all. Managing My Playlist Your DVR has lots of recording space but it is possible to fill up the hard drive if you record regularly.
  • Page 46 HD, while recording other shows in SD to optimize your use of the available recording capacity. Cinema On Demand Press the GREEN button to go to the Cinema On Demand home page. DIRECTV PLUS DVR USER GUIDE ®...

  • Page 47: Multi-Room Viewing

    7. Note: To access DIRECTV Multi-Room HD DVR service functionality, you need a DIRECTV Plus HD DVR receiver (models HR24 or R22, HR20-HR23 with DECA), a second MRV-capable receiver (models H24, HR24 or R22, H21, H23, HR20-HR23 with DECA), a SWiM network, HD Access, DVR service and Multi-Room HD DVR service.
  • Page 48 14 characters or less. You must be at the receiver to assign its name. After you’ve assigned a Location Name, you can change it as follows: Press MENU, select “Parental, Fav’s & Setup,” “System Setup,” “Multi- Room” and then “Name Location.” DIRECTV PLUS DVR USER GUIDE ®...
  • Page 49 My Playlist - Multi-Room Viewing High -Definition Receivers 4. Set Playlist Sharing Options (DVR Only): During initial setup, if the receiver is an HD DVR, you’ll be prompted to set the following Playlist sharing options: Share Playlist An HD DVR has the option to share its Playlist with other receivers. Let’s say you have an HD DVR in your Den, an HD DVR in your Master Bedroom, and an HD Non-DVR in your Kitchen.

  • Page 50: Record Programs

    “Record Once” or “Record Series.” If your recording (requested from a Non-DVR receiver) conflicts with other recordings already scheduled on the DVR, a message will display letting you know that your program cannot be recorded. DIRECTV PLUS DVR USER GUIDE ®...

  • Page 51: Watch Recorded Programs

    My Playlist - Multi-Room Viewing High -Definition Receivers Recordings can only be managed from the HD DVR receiver that recorded the show (even if they were originally requested from a Non- DVR receiver). In order to check the status of scheduled recordings on the To Do List or to change the priority of a series you’ve scheduled to record, go to the HD DVR and press MENU, select “Manage Recordings”...

  • Page 52: Directv On Demand

    The DIRECTV on DEMAND service provides access to thousands of movies, shows, sports and more, that you can download and watch anytime you wish. Many are free, but we also offer a full selection of the best DIRECTV Cinema™ movies and Pay Per View events.

  • Page 53: Channels On Demand

    DIRECTV on DEMAND Channels On Demand Home Channel 1000 is the DIRECTV on DEMAND home page from which you can access thousands of movies, shows, sports and more. Browse the listings by category such as, Movies, Kids and Family, TV Series, etc..

  • Page 54: Cinema On Demand

    Internet, we’ll have a selection of top movies available for you to watch right now. Showcases Showcases offers you DIRECTV content such as instructional videos, behind the scenes clips and video extras, information about DIRECTV sports subscriptions, special offers, trailers and more.

  • Page 55: Downloading On Demand Shows

    DIRECTV on DEMAND Downloading On Demand Shows To record DIRECTV on DEMAND programs, browse the home pages to find a title you want to download. Select the title to display the program’s info screen. From here, select “Add to Queue” and the program will be placed in your download queue.

  • Page 56: Pausing Your Downloads

    (Note: Program playback pauses, but the download continues.) You can easily tell which shows in your Playlist came from DIRECTV on DEMAND by the “VOD” label next to the program title. “VOD” stands for “Video on Demand.”...

  • Page 57: Smart Search (Hd Dvr Receivers)

    Smart Search finds all matching programs within the 14-day program guide as well as, within the DIRECTV on DEMAND library (if you’re connected to your home network).

  • Page 58: Search Results

    Select a person’s name for a list of their other programs available in the program guide. Similar Shows offers titles of shows that are similar to the current program, such as prequels and sequels. DIRECTV PLUS DVR USER GUIDE ®...

  • Page 59: Person

    Smart Search (High-Definition Receivers) If you select a Person (i.e. Actor, Director or Producer): A list of their upcoming programs displays. You’ll have the option to highlight and select individual programs to record or you can select “Autorecord” to record all programs matching the name of the Person you searched for. Autorecords are persistent.

  • Page 60: Channel

    Press select on “Tune Now” to view that channel. You can also highlight a program and press the orange REC (record) button on your remote to schedule it to record or press SELECT on a highlighted program for detailed program info and additional options. DIRECTV PLUS DVR USER GUIDE ®...

  • Page 61: Category

    Smart Search (High-Definition Receivers) If you select a Category: Sample categories are: Movies, Science Fiction, Baseball, Basketball, Football, Cooking, Exercise/Fitness, Travel, etc… A list of upcoming programs matching that category displays. Highlight a program and press the orange REC (record) button on your remote to schedule it to record or press SELECT on a highlighted listing for detailed program info and additional options.

  • Page 62: Keyword

    “Catskills Mountains” as well as, “Cats in Washington.” You can enter a phrase such as, “Wild Cats” but it must match the program information exactly. It’s usually better to use single words. DIRECTV PLUS DVR USER GUIDE ®...
  • Page 63 Smart Search (High-Definition Receivers) To perform a Keyword search: Press MENU on your remote and select “Smart Search”. Type in your keyword and press the RED button on your remote. Select a category to narrow your results or if you don’t want to narrow, select “All”.

  • Page 64: Recent Searches

    25 most recent searches. Press MENU on your remote and select “Smart Search”. Highlight and select “Recent Searches” at the bottom of the keypad. Highlight a previous search from the list and press “SELECT”. DIRECTV PLUS DVR USER GUIDE ®...

  • Page 65: Search For Shows (Sd Dvr Receivers)

    If a program is being broadcast on more than one channel, a folder icon will display next to the title. DIRECTV on DEMAND titles have a VOD icon next to them. Highlight a title and press SELECT for program info and recording and other options.

  • Page 66: Search By Person

    “Autorecord” to record all programs for the person selected. Autorecords are persistent. Therefore, any time a program becomes available in the Guide that matches your Person, it will automatically be recorded. DIRECTV PLUS DVR USER GUIDE...

  • Page 67: Search By Channel

    Search for Shows (Standard-Definition Receivers) If you select “Channel”: Use the on-screen keypad to enter the first few letters of the channel name. For example, type in “BL” to find Bloomberg. Highlight and select the desired channel from the list. A list of programs scheduled on that channel will display.

  • Page 68: Search By Keyword

    • Press MENU on your remote, select “Search for Shows” then select “Recent Searches.” • Highlight a previous search from the list and press “SELECT”. DIRECTV PLUS DVR USER GUIDE ®...

  • Page 69: Manage Recordings

    The To Do list does not display DIRECTV on DEMAND programs scheduled for download over the Internet; these are shown in the Queue screen.

  • Page 70: Queue

    Manage Recordings Queue The Queue screen displays DIRECTV on DEMAND titles that are in the queue waiting to be downloaded to the hard drive. See the DIRECTV on DEMAND section earlier in this chapter for details. Programs that have completed downloading are displayed in the Playlist.

  • Page 71: Series Manager (Prioritizer)

    Manage Recordings Series Manager (or Prioritizer) The Series Manager screen (or Prioritizer screen on Standard-Definition Receivers) displays a prioritized list of all the series you’ve scheduled to record. If there is a series recording conflict and the receiver must choose which show to record, it uses this list to determine the priority.

  • Page 72: Manual Recording

    (i.e. every Tuesday), channel, day and date, start time and duration. You can schedule a manual recording up to 14 days in advance. DIRECTV PLUS DVR USER GUIDE ®...

  • Page 73: Recording Defaults

    Manage Recordings Record Defaults The Record Defaults screen lets you set the recording options you want the receiver to use every time it does a recording. The receiver’s default settings work best in the vast majority of cases, but you may want to change them to your personal preferences.

  • Page 74: Music, Photos & More

    You must have at least one personal computer running a media server (e.g. TVersity, Windows Media Player, Intel Viiv) in your network for this service to work. The setup is similar to that used for the DIRECTV on DEMAND service. See Appendix 2 for details on how to connect your DVR to your home network.
  • Page 75 Music, Photos & More Select “Music” to go to the Music submenu, where you can access music by Artist, Album, Song, Playlists and Channel. Your favorite music will play as you watch TV or view photos from your PC. Once the desired songs are selected from the Music submenu, the song’s information will display on the Progress bar.
  • Page 76 Pressing the STOP button while in photo control mode stops the display of photos and displays the video from the current channel. DIRECTV PLUS DVR USER GUIDE ®...

  • Page 77: Caller Id

    Caller ID Caller ID This feature allows you to configure and review your Caller ID (if you have that phone service and your receiver is connected to the phone line). Note: You must subscribe to caller ID service through your phone company and your receiver must be connected to the phone line.

  • Page 78: Tvmail

    TVmail TVmail DIRECTV sends messages to you via satellite for important news items or special promotions. We also summarize important software changes or new features that we download to your receiver. When you have new mail, the “envelope” message icon will appear in the channel banner of any program you are watching.

  • Page 79: Parental, Fav's & Setup

    “Parental Controls” to limit what ratings your children are allowed to watch, how much they can spend for Pay Per View shows or even what hours they can watch DIRECTV Programming. Select “Favorite Channels” to set up your own personal list of favorite channels and then use it in the program guide and while surfing live TV for a more customized experience.
  • Page 80 Scroll down to Passcode and press SELECT. Enter your old passcode, then enter a new one twice to confirm. Note: If you forget your passcode, call 1-800-DIRECTV to reset it. You must be the registered account holder and have your account number.
  • Page 81 Parental, Fav’s & Setup - Parental Controls Unlock Your Receiver When parental controls are locked, a message appears if you try to tune to a restricted program explaining why the program is blocked. To temporarily unlock a particular program select “Unlock Now” and enter your passcode. For more unlock options, press MENU, select “Parental Fav’s &...
  • Page 82 Highlight and select the box to toggle the setting between “Allow No Rating” and “Block No Rating.” If you choose “Block No Rating”, programming that has no rating such as, news and sports will not display. DIRECTV PLUS DVR USER GUIDE...
  • Page 83 Parental, Fav’s & Setup - Parental Controls Adult Channels Hide adult channels in the program guide, Manage Recordings screens, and when channel surfing. Select “Adult Channels” (or “Adult Ch’s” on Standard- Definition Receivers), then highlight and select the box to toggle between “Hide Adult”...
  • Page 84 Select “Viewing Hours” (or “Hours” on Standard- Definition Receivers), then select the start times and durations for viewing. You can set hours based on “school nights” — Monday-Thursday – and/or weekend nights—Friday- Saturday, and Sunday. DIRECTV PLUS DVR USER GUIDE ®...

  • Page 85: Favorite Channels

    TV. You can create up to two custom lists on this receiver. You can also choose “Channels I Get” to see only the channels that are in your DIRECTV programming package. Access the Favorites feature from the main menu, the guide, or live TV. From the main menu, select “Parental, Fav’s &...

  • Page 86: System Setup

    This information can be useful during troubleshooting. Standard -Definition Receivers For Standard-Definition Receivers select “Info & Test” and then press the GREEN and RED buttons on your remote to move between the System Info and System Test screens. DIRECTV PLUS DVR USER GUIDE ®...
  • Page 87 Parental, Fav’s & Setup - System Setup Display Select “Display” and then select either “Preferences”, “Captioning” or “Clock”. Standard -Definition Receivers For Standard-Definition Receivers select “Display” and then press the GREEN and RED buttons on your remote to move between the Preferences, TV Ratio and Time Zone screens.
  • Page 88 -Captioning High -Definition Receivers On High-Definition receivers, select “Captioning” to turn closed captioning on or off, and to select the font style, size and color for the display of captions. DIRECTV PLUS DVR USER GUIDE ®...
  • Page 89 Parental, Fav’s & Setup - System Setup -Clock Select “Clock” (or “Time Zone” on Standard-Definition Receivers) to set your time zone and whether you want the receiver to show Daylight Savings time or not. TV Ratio Standard -Definition Receivers On Standard-Definition Receivers, select the “TV Ratio” tab to set the “aspect ratio”...
  • Page 90 Dolby Laboratories. Standard -Definition Receivers For Standard-Definition Receivers select “Audio” and then press the GREEN and RED buttons on your remote to move between the Language, Sound Effects and Dolby Digital screens. ® DIRECTV PLUS DVR USER GUIDE ®...
  • Page 91 Parental, Fav’s & Setup - System Setup HDTV Select “HDTV” and then select either “Video”, “TV Ratio” or “TV Resolution”. Before you get started, you may want to review Appendix 3, About High-Definition, which describes HD formats and resolutions. -Video Set your preference for the following screen options: Native, Screen Format and Bar Color.
  • Page 92 To find the resolutions your TV supports, check the user’s guide that came with your TV. If you select a resolution your TV doesn’t support, the receiver will reset the setting after a few seconds. DIRECTV PLUS DVR USER GUIDE...
  • Page 93 When the MODE switch on your remote is in the left-most position, it controls your DIRECTV Receiver. However, you can also program the AV1, AV2 and TV positions to control other equipment such as your TV, DVD, VCR or Stereo.
  • Page 94 Certain remote control models feature RF (radio frequency) capability. Refer to the model number printed on the top left corner of your DIRECTV Remote Control. Look for the letter(s) “R” or “RB” are at the end of the model number which indicates that the remote supports radio frequency.
  • Page 95 Location High -Definition Receivers If you’re using DIRECTV’s Multi-Room service (aka MRV) you can use this option to set or change your DVR Playlist Sharing preferences or to create or change the names of each receiver location. To learn more, read the “Multi-Room Viewing” section in Chapter 2.
  • Page 96 Guided Setup. WARNING: All your recordings will be erased from the hard drive! Note: If Parental Controls are locked, you must enter your password to reset the receiver. DIRECTV PLUS DVR USER GUIDE ®...
  • Page 97 -Definition Receivers Do not select Access Card unless you have a new access card provided by DIRECTV. DIRECTV will provide new access cards and instructions when necessary. Follow the on-screen directions to replace your access card. You will need your old and new access cards to complete this process.

  • Page 98: Help Topics And Faqs

    “Help”. Select a folder to open it, and then select a topic of your choice. Press the GREEN button to go to the FAQ tab. Standard -Definition Receivers On Standard-Definition Receivers, press MENU, select “Customer Care & Help” and then select “Help Topics”. DIRECTV PLUS DVR USER GUIDE ®...

  • Page 99: Chapter 3: Connections For Tv And Auxiliary Equipment

    CHAPTER 3 - CONNECTIONS FOR TV AND AUXILIARY EQUIPMENT CONNECTIONS ..............100 SETUP AND ACTIVATION ..........104...

  • Page 100: Connections

    Connecting your receiver to a land-based telephone line saves you money because it allows you to purchase DIRECTV Cinema™ movies and Pay-Per-View events without calling DIRECTV to order. It is required for sports package subscriptions and is also used to enhance the interactive features available on our interactive channels.

  • Page 101: Video Connections

    Connections All of the video and audio outputs on your receiver offer good quality. Pick one of each from WARNING: the list below, based on the connectors your TV supports; they are listed in order, with the Do not connect your receiver (or any other equipment such as a TV or VCR) to the AC power highest quality options at the top of each list.
  • Page 102 This example also shows using a VCR or DVD burner with RCA audio and video connectors. Surround System DIRECTV Plus ® DIRECTV Plus ® Example: TV with Component Video Connectors...

  • Page 103: Connections For Tv And Auxiliary Equipment

    This example also shows using a VCR or DVD burner with RCA audio and video connectors. Surround System DIRECTV Plus ® Television Surround System Example: TV with RCA Connectors...

  • Page 104: Setup And Activation

    ® Once all the setup processes are complete, all that’s left to do is activate your DIRECTV Service. Before you make the call, be sure to: Have on hand your service address, social security number and a valid major credit card.
  • Page 105 CHAPTER 4 - TROUBLESHOOTING TROUBLESHOOTING TIPS ..........106 DIRECTV RECEIVER OR TV PROBLEMS ......108 ® RECORDED TV TROUBLESHOOTING .........116 REMOTE CONTROL PROBLEMS ........120 RUNNING THE SYSTEM TEST ...........121...

  • Page 106: Troubleshooting Tips

    System Software Updates DIRECTV periodically sends system software updates to your receiver to improve performance and upgrade features and functions. These updates will occur automatically, usually at times when the receiver would likely be turned off. If your receiver is on when an update is sent, you will see an on-screen message and you may experience a disruption in reception for a few minutes.

  • Page 107: On-Screen Error Messages

    Most on-screen messages supply an error code in parentheses, go to directv.com/troubleshooting and select the on-screen error message for solutions. The message at right shows an example of trying to view a channel that you have not purchased or that is not in your programming package.

  • Page 108: Directv Receiver Or Tv Problems

    • Press the INPUT button on the TV remote control to change video source. - If problems persist, turn off all equipment that is connected to your TV, wait a few minutes, then turn the DIRECTV Plus DVR back on.
  • Page 109 - Wall outlet is dead. Solution: - Make sure the remote control MODE switch is in the left-most position (DIRECTV mode), and press PWR (power key) or press POWER button on the front panel of the receiver. - Verify that the power cord is plugged into the DIRECTV Plus DVR and the wall outlet.
  • Page 110 - Electronic protection circuit may have been activated due to a power surge. - You may have blown a circuit breaker or be experiencing a power outage. - Parental viewing limits may have been activated on your DIRECTV Receiver. ®...
  • Page 111 Possible Causes: - Your TV and/or your receiver are not powered on. - Your receiver may be hooked up to the TV incorrectly. - You may be on the wrong video source for your DIRECTV Receiver. ® - You may be tuned to a channel that is not currently broadcasting, or that you don’t subscribe to.
  • Page 112 - There may be an obstruction to your dish (debris, snow, ice, etc.) or a building or tree that blocks your line of sight to the satellite. - There may be a problem with the cables running from your satellite dish to your DIRECTV Receiver.
  • Page 113 “Repeat Satellite Setup.” Follow the steps. From the Satellite Dish Type screen, make sure the proper dish type is selected. - To refresh your receiver information, go to directv.com/reauthorize. You will need to be logged into your account on directv.com to complete this process.
  • Page 114 - If the issue continues, reset your DIRECTV Receiver. Press the RESET button behind the access panel door on the front of the DIRECTV Receiver. You can also press MENU, press SELECT “Parental, Fav’s & Setup”, then select “System Setup.” Select the “Reset”...
  • Page 115 - Verify audio cables are secure and connected correctly. - Verify that your surround sound system is working, if applicable. - If the issue continues, reset your DIRECTV Receiver. Press the RESET button behind the access panel door on the front of the ®...

  • Page 116: Recorded Tv Troubleshooting

    Problem: I wanted to record a program, but I got an error message saying it conflicted with another scheduled record. What do I do? Your DIRECTV Plus DVR can record up to two programs at once, or it can record one program while you watch another live program.

  • Page 117: Chapter 4 - Troubleshooting

    Recorded TV Troubleshooting Solution: - If you tried to record three programs at once, or watch a live TV program with two others recording, you will need to decide which recording to cancel. - If the overlap is a couple of minutes (for example, some networks occasionally start programs at 8:59 instead of 9:00 p.m.), adjust your recording start and end times in the Recording Options.
  • Page 118 - If you recorded a Cinema On Demand movie or Pay Per View event, but did not watch it, the time which you are allowed to purchase or watch it may have expired. To avoid this in the future, check your Pay Per View recordings in the My Playlist screen for expiration dates. DIRECTV PLUS DVR USER GUIDE...
  • Page 119 Recorded TV Troubleshooting Problem: I’ve set up a series recording, but now I get a bunch of reruns and multiple copies of the same program. Your DVR is getting full of duplicate recordings of the same program, or old episodes of the chosen show. Possible Causes: - Your series is set to record both First Run and Repeat episodes.

  • Page 120: Remote Control Problems

    - Check that nothing is between the remote control and the remote sensor. - Make sure the remote control is in DIRECTV mode. Slide the MODE switch on the remote to the DIRECTV position so the remote will control the DIRECTV Receiver.

  • Page 121: Running The System Test

    Turn on your TV and the DIRECTV Plus DVR. ® Slide the mode switch to the DIRECTV position to put the remote control in satellite receiver-controlling mode, then press MENU to display the Quick Menu. Select “Parental, Fav’s & Setup.”...
  • Page 122 DIRECTV PLUS DVR USER GUIDE ®...
  • Page 123 CHAPTER 5 - WARRANTY AND OTHER INFORMATION LIMITED 90-DAY WARRANTY ..........124 DIRECTV PROTECTION PLAN ..........127 FCC CUSTOMER INFORMATION .........129 TERMS & CONDITIONS FOR USE OF SOFTWARE ....133...

  • Page 124: Limited 90-Day Warranty

    This exchange is done without charge to you for parts and labor. You will be responsible for the cost of shipping to and from the location designated by DIRECTV. If DIRECTV cannot reasonably repair or replace the Receiver then DIRECTV may, at its sole discretion, refund the price you paid for the product or the current retail price of the product.

  • Page 125: Chapter 5 - Warranty And Other Information

    Any modifications or other changes to the product, including but not limited to software or hardware modification in any way other than as expressly authorized by DIRECTV will void this limited warranty. Except in the case of hardware or software provided by DIRECTV, installing software modifications, “hacks”...
  • Page 126 To Get Warranty Service... Warranty service will be provided by DIRECTV. If you believe you need service for your Receiver, contact DIRECTV at 1-800-DIRECTV. A representative will go through a diagnostic checklist with you. If it is determined that the product needs to be returned for service or exchanged, you will receive a return authorization number.

  • Page 127: Directv Protection Plan

    DIRECTV entertainment. ® DIRECTV PROTECTION PLAN Benefits Your DIRECTV Limited Warranty provides certain remedies for this receiver during the stated coverage term. The DIRECTV PROTECTION PLAN provides comprehensive coverage for your DIRECTV System, including: ®...
  • Page 128 DIRECTV where authorized by law. Certain limitations may apply. Pricing, terms and conditions of the DIRECTV PROTECTION PLAN are subject to change. Full terms and conditions will be mailed to you prior to service billing and are available at directv.com/protection.

  • Page 129: Fcc Customer Information

    El Segundo, CA 90245 1-800-DIRECTV • Trade Name: DIRECTV • Type of Equipment: DIRECTV Satellite Receiver • Model Number: R or HR Federal Communications Commission (FCC): This equipment complies with both Part 15 and Part 68 of the FCC rules.
  • Page 130 Increase the separation between the equipment and the DIRECTV Receiver. • Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the DIRECTV Receiver is connected. • Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help.
  • Page 131 The REN for this product is part of the product identifier that has the format US: AAAEQ##TXXXX. The digits represented by ## are the REN without the decimal point (e.g., 03 is a REN of 0.3). If this DIRECTV Receiver causes harm to the telephone network, the telephone company will notify you in advance that temporary ®...
  • Page 132 FCC Customer Information If trouble is experienced with this unit, for repair or warranty information, please contact DIRECTV Customer Care at the address and phone number listed below. If the equipment is causing harm to the network, the telephone company may request that you disconnect the equipment until the problem is resolved.

  • Page 133: Terms & Conditions For Use Of Software

    Receiver may be made directly available to you by the providers thereof. The source code to certain software subject to the GNU GPL and other open source licenses that is used in connection with the Receiver is made available to you by DIRECTV following the written request to DIRECTV.
  • Page 134 C. Ownership of Software and Reservation of Rights The Software is licensed, not sold, to you for use only under the terms of this license agreement, DIRECTV is NOT transferring title or any ownership rights in the Software to you and DIRECTV and its suppliers reserve all rights not expressly granted to you. Except as stated above, this license agreement does not grant to you any intellectual property rights in the Software.
  • Page 135 Certain additional terms and information for the Software and certain third party software (including the text of licenses applicable to any free, open source and other similar software that may be included in the Software) may be found in the DIRECTV website located at www.directv.com, and the GNU website located at www.gnu.org.
  • Page 136 DIRECTV PLUS DVR USER GUIDE ®...

  • Page 137: Appendices Appendix 1: Receivers Front And Back Panels

    APPENDICES APPENDIX 1: RECEIVERS FRONT AND BACK PANELS ..138 APPENDIX 2: HOW TO NETWORK YOUR RECEIVER ...146 APPENDIX 3: ABOUT HIGH-DEFINITION ......154...
  • Page 138 Appendix 1: Receivers Front and Back Panels DIRECTV Plus HD DVR ® FRONT PANEL: The buttons on the front panel perform the same functions as similarly named buttons on the remote control. You can use the front panel buttons at any time, but they are especially useful if you misplace your remote control or the batteries die.
  • Page 139 7. SELECT – Selects the item highlighted. RES (RESOLUTION) – The RES key switches the output resolution of the DIRECTV Receiver. Each time you press the key, it cycles ® to the next available resolution: 480i, 480p, 720p, 1080i, and 1080p (supported on some models). Note: The RESOLUTION button on the front panel only changes the resolution.
  • Page 140 Appendix 1: Receivers Front and Back Panels BACK PANEL: 11 12 Your equipment may not look exactly like the model illustrated. DIRECTV PLUS DVR USER GUIDE ®...
  • Page 141 Use this combination digital video and audio connector for the best picture quality. ETHERNET – Connect your home network here to enable DIRECTV on DEMAND and Media Share features. USB – For future use. USB 2.0 Host(FRONT/REAR EACH 5V = 500mA) SATA –...
  • Page 142 Appendix 1: Receivers Front and Back Panels DIRECTV Plus ® FRONT PANEL: The buttons on the front panel perform the same functions as the remote control. You can use the front panel buttons at any time, but they are there just in case you misplace your remote control or the batteries die.
  • Page 143 This button lights orange to indicate a recording is in progress. SELECT – Selects the item highlighted. ACTIVE – Displays the DIRECTV Interactive Home Page - local weather and more! INFO – Displays channel banner or info for a highlighted program or channel cell. DOOR PANEL –...
  • Page 144 Appendix 1: Receivers Front and Back Panels BACK PANEL: Your equipment may not look exactly like the model illustrated. DIRECTV PLUS DVR USER GUIDE ®...
  • Page 145 Connect the second line from your satellite dish here. OFF AIR IN – Connect a standard TV antenna or cable feed to the DIRECTV Receiver using this jack USB – For future use. USB 2.0 Host(FRONT/REAR EACH 5V = 500mA) S-VIDEO OUT –...

  • Page 146: Appendix 2: How To Network Your Dvr

    Appendix 2: How to Network Your DVR Network Requirements: To use your DIRECTV Receiver on your home network, you will need: A compatible DIRECTV Receiver, such as the DIRECTV Plus HD DVR (models HR20 or later) or DIRECTV Plus ®...
  • Page 147 Appendix 2: How to Network Your DVR Wired Step 1 - Connect your DIRECTV DVR Receiver to your router Direct Connection Ethernet Cable Connect one end of your Ethernet cable to the Ethernet port on the back of your router.
  • Page 148 Select to complete the setup process (See figure B). Figure C If your DIRECTV DVR Receiver does not immediately recognize the network connection, you will get the option to choose the connection method. Choose Wired (See Figure C). Follow the onscreen instructions.
  • Page 149 Appendix 2: How to Network Your DVR Powerline IMPORTANT: Use your home’s existing power lines to connect your DSL/cable router to your DIRECTV DVR Please be advised that your Ethernet Adapters must Receiver via Ethernet Adapters that use HomePlug or a similar power line technology.
  • Page 150 Done to complete the setup process (See figure B). Figure C If your DIRECTV DVR Receiver does not immediately recognize the network connection, you will get the option to choose the connection method. Choose Powerline (See Figure C). Follow the onscreen instructions.
  • Page 151 Appendix 2: How to Network Your DVR Wireless Create a wireless connection between your wireless router and your DIRECTV DVR Receiver, so your receiver can access the Internet. Ethernet Cable Along with the Network Requirements at the beginning of Appendix 3 your will need:...

  • Page 152: Home Network

    Then select Continue. Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the set-up process of the wireless adapter. Note: If you are having difficulty connecting to the Internet or need more information, visit www.directv.com/ondemand. DIRECTV PLUS DVR USER GUIDE ®...
  • Page 153 Select to complete the setup process (See figure B). Figure C If your DIRECTV DVR Receiver does not immediately recognize the network connection, you will get the option to choose the connection method. Choose Wireless (See Figure C). Follow the onscreen instructions.

  • Page 154: Appendix 3: About High-Definition

    Screen Formats What if you’re watching a nearly square-shaped 4:3 broadcast on a 16:9 TV, or vice versa? The DIRECTV HD Receiver lets you choose from a variety of screen formats to deal with those scenarios. You can set up your preferences for format during Guided Setup and change them at any time.
  • Page 155 Resolution (RES) Key on Receiver Front Panel This key is used to through cycle all available resolutions on your DIRECTV HD DVR. It does not through cycle format settings. If video and audio are not appearing, it may be because the current resolution setting is not supported by your television. By pressing this key, you can check all available resolutions to see if that solves the problem.
  • Page 156 MENU, select “Parental, Fav’s & Setup”, “System Setup”, “HDTV” and then “Video.” Select the desired bar color. See your TV’s owner’s manual for information on the best color for your set. DIRECTV PLUS DVR USER GUIDE...
  • Page 157 Appendix 3: About High-Definition - Stretch In the Stretch setting, instead of adding bars to the top and bottom, the 16:9 program image is stretched vertically until it’s tall enough to fill the screen. Your entire screen will be full, but the program images are stretched to compensate. - Crop This format crops (cuts off) the left and right portions of the 16:9 frame so it fits the 4:3 screen.
  • Page 158 Your entire screen will be full, but the images are a little stretched to compensate. - Crop This format crops (cuts off) the top and bottom of a 4:3 frame, keeping the 4:3 ratio intact. DIRECTV PLUS DVR USER GUIDE...
  • Page 159 Appendix 3: About High-Definition If your display is a 16:9 format TV or monitor, your format options include these: For 4:3 program signals: Pillar Box Stretch Crop For 16:9 program signals: Fills TV Screen...

  • Page 160: Index

    Favorite Channels List - 31, 33, 85 Digital Audio - 90, 101-103 Back Panel - 140-141, 144-145 FCC Customer Information - 129-132 DIRECTV Cinema™ - 52, 54 Batteries - 11, 14 Filtering the Guide - 30 DIRECTV Mode - 14...
  • Page 161 Index channel programs list - 32 Mode Switch - 14, back cover customizing - 31 Model Number - 124 Keep - 45, 47, 71, 75 favorite channels - 31 Movie Ratings - 81 Keyword Search - 55 filtering - 30 Multi-Room Viewing - 47-51 jump to a date and time - 31 Music - 3, 40, 74-75...
  • Page 162 Power - 10, 11, 14, 101, 106, 139, 141, defaults - 73 143, 145 from Live TV - 25, 27 On Demand - See DIRECTV on Power Surge - 10 from the guide - 25, 27 DEMAND Powerline Connection - 149-150...
  • Page 163 Index Surround Sound - 90, 93, 101, 114 System Info - 86 Satellite Data Acquisition - 108 Unsubscribed Channels - 19 System Messages - 42 Satellite Signal Strength - 95 Unlock (Parental Controls) - 81 System Settings - 86 Scheduler - 38 System Setup - 86 Search System Software Updates - 106...
  • Page 164 DIRECTV, Inc., DIRECTV and the Cyclone Design logo, DIRECTV Active, DIRECTV INTERACTIVE, DIRECTV PLUS, HomePlug, Game Lounge and the DIRECTV Plus DVR and DIRECTV Plus HD DVR logos are trademarks of DIRECTV, Inc. This product incorporates copyright protection technology that is protected by U.S. patents and other intellectual property rights. Use of this copyright protection technology must be authorized by Macrovision Corporation, and is intended for home and other limited viewing uses only unless otherwise authorized by Macrovision.
  • Page 166 Icon Reference Indicate that a show’s start or end time is earlier or later than is visible in the Guide program cell. LEFT and RIGHT arrows on the remote offer special functionality. Arrow Icons Objects are scrollable above or below the visible window. UP and DOWN arrows on the receiver front panel offer special functionality.
  • Page 167 Indicates a Program is in the Queue. All episodes of an ongoing programs are in the Queue. Indicates a program is about to expire Indicates that the programs comes from DIRECTV on DEMAND. Indicates a recorded program is not available for viewing.

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