How to Copy From a DirecTV DVR to Computer

Connect a DirecTV DVR to a computer to transfer shows.

DirecTV DVRs can store hundreds of hours of digital programming, but the internal hard drive memory will fill up eventually. Copying some of that content to a computer makes it possible to delete old programs and free up memory space on the DVR. The setup requires a computer with a video capture card and software bundled with the card to record videos from the DVR. Standard AV cables with color-coded plugs complete the connection between the components.

Instructions

1. Connect the white, yellow and red plug on one end of the composite cable to the matching audio-video out jacks on the back of the DirecTV DVR.

2. Connect the yellow plug on the other end to the video in jack on the computer's capture card on the back of the tower.

3. Insert the white and red plugs on the composite cable into the two jacks on the Y-adapter, then push the mini-plug on the Y-adapter into the audio line in jack on the back of the computer.

4. Open the recording software by clicking twice on the name of the program, which will be the same as the brand name of the video capture card installed on the system.

5. Turn on the DirecTV DVR and press the "Menu" button on the remote control, using the down arrow key to scroll to Recorded Programs. Highlight the desired program for copying to the computer, then press the "Enter" button on the remote and select "Play."

6. Click the software "Record" button to copy the show, clicking the "Stop" button when finished.

7. Click the "File" tab on the software and select "Save as MPEG," then type a name for the recording for easy reference. Click the "Save" button to store the recording on the hard drive.

Tips & Warnings

• Copying shows to the computer does not remove them from the DVR. They must be deleted manually using the DirecTV remote control.

• Some satellite programming may be encoded to prevent copying from the DVR to another device.

References

• Life Tips: DirecTV DVR Tips