DIRECTV Genie 54 Manual

The DIRECTV Genie 54 is a high-definition satellite receiver with 4K Ultra HD capability, built-in 1TB hard drive for recording up to 200 hours of HD content, 5 tuners for recording multiple shows simultaneously, Genie Mini client support, voice remote with Google Assistant, Wi-Fi connectivity, and advanced features like Whole-Home DVR and On Demand content. Below are key sections for setup, features, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation & Setup 3. First-Time Activation 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Navigation 6. Recording & Playback 7. Genie Mini Setup 8. Advanced Features 9. Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 4K Ultra HD receiver, Voice Remote, 1TB hard drive, 5 tuners, Ethernet port, Wi-Fi adapter, HDMI output, component video outputs, optical audio output.

FeatureDescription
4K Ultra HDSupports 4K resolution content with HDR
1TB Hard DriveRecords up to 200 hours of HD programming
5 TunersRecord up to 5 shows simultaneously while watching live TV
Voice RemoteVoice control with Google Assistant integration
Whole-Home DVRAccess recordings from any Genie Mini client
Wi-Fi ConnectivityBuilt-in Wi-Fi for wireless network connection
Genie Mini SupportConnect up to 8 Genie Mini clients
On DemandAccess thousands of movies and shows
Mobile AppControl with DIRECTV app on smartphone
POWERTurns receiver on/off

Installation & Setup

Unpack and inspect contents. Connect to satellite dish and TV.

  1. Connect satellite dish: Run coaxial cable from dish to SATELLITE IN port.
  2. Connect to TV: Use HDMI cable for best quality; component cables as alternative.
  3. Connect to internet: Use Ethernet cable or built-in Wi-Fi for On Demand and updates.
  4. Connect power: Plug into AC power outlet.
  5. Connect Genie Minis: Use coaxial cables or wireless video bridge.

WARNING! Ensure all connections are secure before powering on. Use surge protector.

First-Time Activation

Power on receiver; follow on-screen prompts.

  1. Satellite signal: Ensure dish is properly aligned for signal acquisition.
  2. Activation: Call 1-800-DIRECTV or visit directv.com/activate.
  3. Software download: Allow receiver to download latest software (may take 30+ minutes).
  4. Guide download: Program guide will populate within 24 hours.
  5. Remote setup: Follow on-screen instructions to program remote for TV control.

CAUTION! Do not unplug during software download to avoid corruption.

Specifications

Controls and Navigation

Front Panel: POWER button, STATUS light. Voice Remote: POWER, MENU, GUIDE, DVR, INFO, numeric buttons, voice control button.

Navigation: Use arrow keys and SELECT button. MENU for main menu access. GUIDE for program guide. DVR for recorded shows. INFO for program information.

Settings: MENU > Settings & Help for display, audio, network, whole-home, and system settings. Display: Resolution, aspect ratio, screen calibration. Audio: Digital audio output, volume leveling. Network: Internet connection setup and status.

Recording & Playback

Record shows using 5 tuners simultaneously.

  1. Single recording: Press RECORD button or select from guide.
  2. Series recording: Press RECORD twice for entire series.
  3. Manage recordings: DVR > Manage Recordings to view, delete, or protect recordings.
  4. Playback: Select recording from DVR list; use PLAY, PAUSE, REW, FF, SKIP controls.
  5. Restart: Press SELECT to restart current program from beginning.
  6. QuickTune: Jump to favorite channels quickly.

Tip: Use Series Manager to manage season passes and recording priorities.

Genie Mini Setup

Connect Genie Mini clients for whole-home viewing.

  1. Wired connection: Connect coaxial cable from Genie to Genie Mini.
  2. Wireless connection: Use Wireless Video Bridge (sold separately).
  3. Activation: Genie Mini will automatically activate when connected.
  4. Remote pairing: Follow on-screen instructions to pair remote with Genie Mini.

Note: Maximum of 8 Genie Mini clients per Genie receiver.

Advanced Features

Voice Control: Press microphone button and speak commands ("Find comedy movies", "Turn to ESPN"). On Demand: Access thousands of movies and shows. DIRECTV App: Control receiver from smartphone. 4K Content: Access 4K library for Ultra HD viewing. Sports Features: Game Finder, Mix Channel for multiple games.

Maintenance

Keep receiver well-ventilated. Clean with dry cloth only. Regular software updates automatically.

CAUTION! Do not block ventilation holes. Keep away from heat sources and moisture.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. Copyright © 2024 DIRECTV. DIRECTV and Genie are trademarks of DIRECTV, LLC. For support, visit directv.com/help or contact 1-800-DIRECTV.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No signalDish alignment/weatherCheck dish alignment; wait for severe weather to pass; check connections.
Recording failedConflict/spaceCheck recording conflicts; delete old recordings to free space.
Remote not workingBatteries/obstaclesReplace batteries; ensure clear path to receiver; re-pair remote.
No 4K contentSetup/equipmentEnsure 4K service activated; use HDMI 2.0 cable; check TV compatibility.
Genie Mini not connectingConnection/powerCheck coaxial connections; restart Genie Mini; ensure power connected.

Reset: Red button reboot or unplug for 15 seconds.

Service: 1-800-DIRECTV; directv.com/help

DIRECTV Genie 54 Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025