How to Set Your Digital Box Recorder to Record Satellite TV

Digital video recorders can capture and store hours of television programming for viewing later at a convenient time. The DVR can be programmed in most cases by pushing a few buttons on a remote control and following the on-screen instructions, a far cry from the days of trying to set up a VCR for a timer recording. DVRs can be connected to satellite receivers for recording shows, although some satellite TV subscription services offer receivers with built-in DVRs. Either way, the set up is essentially the same.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

1. Turn on the TV, the satellite receiver and the DVR, if it is a separate component from the receiver.

2. Press the "Guide" button on the DVR remote control, then use the up and down arrow buttons to scroll through a listing of available programs on the TV screen.

3. Highlight the desired program and press "Settings."

4. Use the up and down arrow buttons to select one-time recording or to program the DVR to record the show each time it comes on.

5. Press "Enter" to complete the setup.

Tips & Warnings

• When shopping for a DVR, consider models that can be programmed remotely from a personal computer or cell phone for added convenience.

• Offload programming to a computer or DVD recorder periodically, or erase older programs so the DVR memory will be free to record new shows.

References

• Comcast: DVR Service
• DirecTV: DVR Systems
• Electrophobia: TiVo Wiring Guide and Use, With Diagrams