How to Setup a DIRECTV HD DVR

A DVR lets you record TV shows and movies.

The DIRECTV HD DVR is a cable receiver/recorder that comes bundled with DIRECTV service. This device lets customers access hundreds of cable channels and record their favorite shows and movies. Customers can choose to rent or buy the DVR. Setting up the DVR only takes a few steps because the DIRECTV installation tech should have already set up your satellite dish. There are several options to setup your DIRECT HD DVR, depending on your TV connections.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• DIRECTV HD DVR
• HDMI cable or component video cables and audio RCA cables
• Television
• DIRECTV remote control
• Satellite dish

1. Insert the access card that came with your DIRECTV HD DVR into the slot in the front of the device. The label should face upward.

2. Find the two lines that trail from your DIRECTV satellite dish. One is "input" and the other is "output." Screw one cable into the DVR "In" port and the other one into the "Out" port.

3. Look at the back of your TV to see your connection choices. An HDMI port is ideal, but you can also use component HD video connections. They are colored blue, red and green.

4. Plug the HDMI cable from your TV into the DVR. Set your TV to the correct mode. If you do not have HDMI, connect the component video cables into the matching colored ports on your TV and then hook them into your DVR. Then connect your audio RCA cables into the matching colored audio ports on your TV and DVR.

5. Plug in the DIRECTV DVR and press the "Power" button if it does not immediately turn on. Follow the instructions on the screen to complete your setup.

Tips & Warnings

• You may need to connect your phone line to your DVR if you ordered phone service.

References

• DIRECTV: HD DVR Manual

Resources

• DIRECTV: HD DVR Receiver