DIRECTV GENIE Gen 3 HR54-500 Manual

The DIRECTV GENIE Gen 3 HR54-500 is a high-definition digital video recorder with 500GB storage capacity, supporting up to 5 simultaneous recordings, 4K Ultra HD compatibility, built-in Wi-Fi, advanced search functionality, voice remote control, and whole-home DVR capability. Below are key sections for setup, features, operation, and troubleshooting.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: HR54-500 receiver, Voice Remote, Power adapter, HDMI cable, Ethernet cable.

FeatureDescription
Storage Capacity500GB hard drive (up to 200 hours HD recording)
Recording CapabilityRecord up to 5 shows simultaneously
Video Resolution4K Ultra HD, 1080p, 720p, 480p
ConnectivityBuilt-in Wi-Fi, Ethernet, 2 USB ports
Voice RemoteVoice command search and navigation
Whole-Home DVRAccess recordings from any Genie client
Advanced SearchSearch by title, actor, genre, or keyword
Mobile AppDIRECTV app for remote control and streaming
Parental ControlsPIN-protected content restrictions
On-DemandAccess to thousands of movies and shows

Installation and Setup

Unpack and verify all components. Choose optimal location near TV and power outlet.

  1. Connect to TV: Use HDMI cable from receiver to TV HDMI port.
  2. Connect to satellite: Run coaxial cable from satellite dish to receiver.
  3. Power connection: Connect power adapter to receiver and wall outlet.
  4. Internet connection: Use Ethernet cable or connect to Wi-Fi for on-demand content.
  5. Remote setup: Pair voice remote with receiver following on-screen instructions.

WARNING! Ensure proper ventilation; do not block receiver vents. Use surge protector for power connection.

First-Time Configuration

Power on receiver; follow on-screen setup wizard.

  1. Satellite signal: Allow receiver to acquire satellite signal automatically.
  2. Software download: Receiver will download latest software (may take 5-30 minutes).
  3. Remote programming: Follow prompts to program remote for TV control.
  4. Network setup: Connect to home network via Wi-Fi or Ethernet.
  5. Channel guide: Download current channel lineup and program information.

CAUTION! Do not interrupt software download; ensure stable power during setup.

Specifications

Controls and Navigation

Front Panel: POWER button, STATUS light, CARD slot. Voice Remote: POWER, GUIDE, MENU, DVR, INFO, numeric buttons, navigation arrows, SELECT, volume/channel controls.

Navigation: Press GUIDE for program guide, MENU for main menu, DVR for recorded shows. Use arrow keys to navigate, SELECT to choose options.

Voice Commands: Press and hold microphone button, speak commands like "Find comedy movies" or "Record Game of Thrones".

Recording and Playback

Record single shows, series, or manage recordings from mobile app.

  1. Record current show: Press RECORD button on remote.
  2. Record series: Select program in guide, choose "Record Series".
  3. Manage recordings: Press DVR button to view and manage recorded content.
  4. Playback controls: PLAY, PAUSE, REWIND, FAST FORWARD, SKIP (30 sec forward, 8 sec back).
  5. Delete recordings: Select recording, choose DELETE option.

Tip: Use Series Manager to set recording preferences for entire series.

Whole-Home DVR Setup

Access recordings from any Genie client receiver in your home.

  1. Ensure all receivers are Genie-compatible models.
  2. Connect all receivers to same network via coax or DECA.
  3. Enable Whole-Home DVR in settings menu.
  4. Allow system to detect and connect all clients.
  5. Access recordings from any client using DVR menu.

WARNING! All receivers must be on same account and network for Whole-Home DVR to function.

Advanced Features

4K Ultra HD: Requires 4K TV and 4K content. Mobile App: Download DIRECTV app for iOS/Android to control receiver remotely. Restart Receiver: Hold POWER button for 10 seconds to soft reset. Parental Controls: Set ratings limits and purchase blocks in settings.

Maintenance

Keep receiver in well-ventilated area. Dust with dry cloth regularly. Restart monthly for optimal performance.

CAUTION! Do not place objects on top of receiver. Ensure proper airflow to prevent overheating.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15 Class B digital device compliant. Manufactured for DIRECTV. Copyright © 2023 DIRECTV. For technical support, visit directv.com/support or call 1-800-531-5000. Software updates automatically delivered via satellite.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No satellite signalDish obstruction/connectionCheck dish alignment; ensure coaxial connections tight; restart receiver.
Remote not workingBatteries/obstructionReplace batteries; ensure clear path to receiver; re-pair remote.
Recording failuresStorage space/conflictsDelete old recordings; check for recording conflicts in schedule.
No 4K contentSettings/equipmentEnsure 4K TV and HDMI cable; enable 4K in video settings.
Slow performanceSoftware/overheatingRestart receiver; ensure proper ventilation; check for software updates.

Reset: Unplug power for 30 seconds, then restart.

Support: 1-800-531-5000; directv.com/support

DIRECTV GENIE Gen 3 HR54-500 Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025