How to Modify My RCA Direct TV Receiver

Adjust the settings of your satellite receiver.

The RCA DirecTV receiver is an older model used by the DirecTV company. It does not come with a built-in DVR and is larger than most current DirecTV models. However, if you are looking just to view standard definition video without swapping the receiver for a new device, it is still possible to use the RCA DirecTV receiver. In addition, several options are available to modify the receiver, from the content it displays to the hookup it provides.

Difficulty:

Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Access card

1. Open the front panel of the RCA DirecTV receiver. This reveals the access card slot. The access card is a small device shaped like a credit card that gives the receiver information to unscramble satellite programming. If you have recently changed your service plan you are given a new access card. Slide this new card into the open slot and power the receiver on to modify the programming information on the receiver.

2. Disconnect the coaxial cable running from the receiver to the television. Although this is a standard connection (and easier than other hookups as it is only a single cable) it provides lower quality than other connections.

3. Plug the red, white and yellow RCA audio cables into the "Video Out" ports on the receiver. Connect the other ends of the cables into the "Video In" ports on the television. Power on the TV and set it to "Video." This adjusts how the receiver outputs its audio/video connection. It is also possible to use an s-video cable connection instead of the yellow RCA video cable, to send the video signal to the television.

References

• 2000 Networks: RCA DirecTV Receiver