Upgrading to a new DirecTV DVR may bring new features and functionality, but it also may mean that your recorded shows are lost. You can, however, transfer recorded shows when replacing a DirecTV DVR by utilizing one of these alternative methods.
Contact DirectTV
DirecTV DVR boxes cannot be linked together to transfer recorded shows from one to the other – and the boxes also cannot be directly hooked up to the computer to transfer recorded shows. This is due to encryption on the box and is meant to prevent unlawful copying and distribution of recorded shows. If you are replacing a DirecTV DVR with another DirecTV DVR, you may be able to get DirecTV to transfer the recorded shows from the old box to the new box as they have special equipment for some boxes that makes this possible. You can contact DirecTV over the phone to see if this is an option. If it is not, then you can try an alternative method such as those discussed in the sections below.
If the first 2 digits are 87 this would mean the receiver can access the internet but not DirecTV servers. If they can't connect to the servers, try rebooting your router and see if you get the. THIS EQUIPMENT IS INTENDED TO RECEIVE AND DECODE SIGNALS. The DIRECTV HD Receiver delivers a variety of programs from DIRECTV and has a built-in HD Receiver. Pressing the FREEZE button freezes the current image.
Use a Video Capture Card or Device
If you want to preserve the shows you recorded on your DirecTV DVR but are OK with the shows being transferred to a computer then you may consider using a video capture PCI-e card or video capture device. The video capture card or device works by capturing any audio and video from an analog cable (such as a composite, component or coaxial cable) hooked to another device such as a video game system or DVR. This video is then captured and saved onto your computer. An HDMI cable will not work for these purposes due to encryption from the DirecTV box.
You can transfer recorded shows from your DirecTV DVR with a video capture card or device by plugging an analog cable into the output jack of your DVR and then plugging the other end of this cable into the input jack on the video capture device. Play your recorded show and hit the record button on your video capture device to save it. Use the device’s included software and follow the software maker's suggestions for getting the best quality video capture.
Use a VCR or DVD Recorder
If you do not want to purchase a video capture card or device, you can take the less expensive route and use either a VCR or DVD recorder to keep a copy of your recorded shows. Both the VCR and DVD recorder devices work in a similar way to the computer capture device, except the recordings are not transferred to the computer and are instead saved to either a VCR tape or a DVD.
As with any capture device, you will need to playback the shows and manually record each with either a VCR or DVD recorder. DVD recorded shows have the benefit of being higher quality and can be transferred from the DVD to your computer, while recording with a VCR may be much cheaper if you already have an old VCR lying around your house.
Warnings
Do not share your recorded shows with anyone. You cannot easily copy shows from your DirecTV DVR because of piracy concerns by cable networks and your cable provider. You can, however, legally record and play back shows as the United States Supreme Court ruled in 1984. Recorded shows do not violate copyright laws unless the material is redistributed.
Warning
- If the program you are attempting to transfer to DVD disc is copy-protected the DVD recorder will display an error message indicating that the program cannot be copied to the disc.
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Though TiVo digital video recorders require subscriptions for full functionality, TiVos can be used without a subscription. Without a subscription TiVos won't be able to access updates to its program guides. This keeps users from scheduling recordings. Also, when users don't have an active subscription, they cannot access streaming services such as Netflix, Pandora Radio or Amazon OnDemand. Typically, the only functionality a TiVo can perform without a subscription is 'Trick Play,' which allows users to pause, fast-forward or rewind live television.
Attach audio-visual cords from the television input to the TiVo's audio-visual output jacks.
Plug the TiVo into the wall outlet.
Power on the TiVo unit. If prompted to subscribe to TiVo service, decline to do so.
Use the TiVo's remote to perform 'Trick Play.' Use the 'Pause', 'Fast-forward,' 'Rewind' and 'Slow-motion' buttons on the remote to manipulate live television.
Tips
Though not supported by TiVo, some users might be able to schedule recordings manually while watching television.
TiVos purchased before October 2001 will come with TiVo Basic. TiVo Basic provides limited program guide functionality, recording and additional software features at no cost.
Warnings
TiVos purchased directly through TiVo must have a service plan purchased. Retailers, however, will sell TiVo units without service plans attached.
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