Direct TV Genie User Manual

The Direct TV Genie is a whole-home HD DVR system that supports up to 8 TVs simultaneously, features 1TB storage capacity, records up to 5 shows at once, offers 4K Ultra HD compatibility, voice control with remote, built-in Wi-Fi, advanced search capabilities, and integrates with popular streaming apps. Below are key sections for setup, features, operation, and troubleshooting.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: Genie HD DVR main unit, Genie Mini clients, Voice Remote, HDMI ports, Ethernet port, USB ports, Satellite inputs.

FeatureDescription
Satellite inputsFor connection to satellite dish
HDMI outputFor high-definition video and audio connection
Ethernet portFor wired internet connection
USB portsFor external storage and future expansions
Power connectorFor AC power connection
Coaxial outputsFor connecting to additional TVs
POWERTurns Genie on/off
RESETResets the system
RECORDStarts recording current program
GUIDEDisplays program guide

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place main unit in well-ventilated area.

  1. Connect satellite dish: Run coaxial cable from dish to satellite input on Genie.
  2. Connect to TV: Use HDMI cable from Genie to TV HDMI input.
  3. Connect to internet: Use Ethernet cable or configure Wi-Fi for on-demand content.
  4. Connect Genie Minis: Use coaxial or wireless connection for additional TVs.
  5. Plug into AC power.

WARNING! Ensure proper ventilation; do not block air vents. Use surge protector.

First-Time Setup

Power on Genie; follow on-screen prompts.

  1. System activation: Call Direct TV or use online activation.
  2. Satellite signal: Allow system to acquire satellite signal (may take 5-10 minutes).
  3. Network setup: Configure internet connection for on-demand and streaming.
  4. Program guide download: Wait for complete guide download.
  5. Remote setup: Pair voice remote with Genie unit.

CAUTION! Do not interrupt satellite signal during initial setup.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access menu via MENU button or voice commands. Front Panel: POWER, STATUS LED.

Remote: POWER, Voice button, GUIDE, DVR, LIST, INFO, MENU, Navigation arrows, SELECT, EXIT, Number buttons, Volume controls.

Settings: Display (Resolution, Screen ratio), Audio (Dolby Digital, Volume leveling), Recording (Keep until, Series recording options), Parental Controls (Ratings blocks, Purchase locks), Whole-Home (Client setup, Network settings).

Connecting Devices

Satellite: Coaxial input. TV: HDMI output. Internet: Ethernet or Wi-Fi. Additional TVs: Genie Minis via coaxial or wireless.

  1. Turn off all devices before connecting.
  2. Use high-speed HDMI cables for best quality.
  3. Connect Genie Minis to additional TVs using provided cables.
  4. Select correct input on TV (HDMI 1, HDMI 2, etc.)

Tip: Label cables for easy identification during setup.

Recording and Playback

Supports single show recording, series recording, and manual recording.

  1. Record current show: Press RECORD button.
  2. Record series: Press RECORD twice or select "Record Series" from info screen.
  3. Schedule recording: Use GUIDE to select future programs to record.
  4. Playback recordings: Press DVR button to access recorded shows.
  5. Manage recordings: Delete, protect, or manage storage from DVR list.
  6. Skip commercials: Use 30-second skip button during playback.
  7. Pause live TV: Press PAUSE; resume with PLAY.
  8. Restart current show: Press PLAY from beginning while watching live TV.

WARNING! Do not disconnect power during recording. Allow sufficient storage space.

Whole-Home DVR Features

Watch recorded shows on any connected TV. Genie Mini clients provide full DVR access throughout home.

  1. Setup Genie Minis: Connect to additional TVs and pair with main Genie.
  2. Access recordings: All recorded content available on every connected TV.
  3. Simultaneous viewing: Different family members can watch different recordings.
  4. Parental controls: Set viewing restrictions per TV if needed.

Care & Maintenance

Keep unit clean and dust-free. Ensure proper ventilation. Use soft, dry cloth for cleaning.

CAUTION! Do not use liquid cleaners. 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 Direct TV; trademarks of AT&T Services, Inc. For support, visit www.directv.com/support or contact 1-800-531-5000.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No satellite signalDish obstruction/connectionCheck dish alignment; ensure cables connected securely; check for weather interference.
Recording failedStorage space/timer conflictCheck available storage; ensure not recording too many shows simultaneously.
Genie Mini not workingConnection/pairingCheck coaxial connections; re-pair Mini with main Genie; restart both units.
Remote not respondingBatteries/obstaclesReplace batteries; ensure clear line of sight to Genie; re-pair remote.
No 4K contentSettings/equipmentEnsure 4K resolution selected; check TV compatibility; verify 4K service subscription.

Reset: Unplug for 30 seconds then restart. Use red reset button if issues persist.

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

Direct TV Genie User Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025