DIRECTV DVR Owners Manual

The DIRECTV DVR is a digital video recorder that allows you to record, pause, and rewind live TV, schedule recordings, and access thousands of on-demand titles. With features like Series Recording, Season Pass, and Whole-Home DVR capability, you can enjoy your favorite shows on your schedule. Below are key sections for setup, features, operation, troubleshooting, and maintenance.

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

Features at a Glance

Key components: DVR receiver, Remote Control, Satellite input, HDMI output, Component video outputs, Ethernet port, USB ports.

FeatureDescription
Satellite inputFor satellite signal connection
HDMI outputFor high-definition video and audio
Component video outputsFor alternative HD connection
Ethernet portFor internet connectivity
USB portsFor external storage and media playback
POWERTurns DVR on/off
RECORDStarts recording current program
PLAY/PAUSEControls playback
GUIDEAccesses program guide
MENUOpens main menu system

Installation & Setup

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

  1. Connect satellite dish: Run coaxial cable from dish to satellite input on DVR.
  2. Connect to TV: Use HDMI or component cables to TV.
  3. Connect to internet: Use Ethernet cable for on-demand and streaming features.
  4. Plug into AC power.

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

First-Time Configuration

Power on DVR; follow on-screen setup wizard.

  1. Satellite signal setup: Allow DVR to download satellite information and program guide.
  2. Network setup: Configure internet connection for on-demand content.
  3. Channel setup: Download latest channel lineup and programming information.
  4. Remote setup: Program remote to control TV and audio system.

CAUTION! Initial setup may take 20-30 minutes; do not interrupt power during setup.

Specifications

Controls and Navigation

Access menus via remote control. Front Panel: POWER, RECORD, PLAY/PAUSE.

Remote: POWER, GUIDE, MENU, INFO, RECORD, PLAY, PAUSE, REWIND, FAST FORWARD, numeric buttons, arrow keys, SELECT.

Menu System: My Shows (recordings), Guide (program listings), Search, Settings, On Demand. Navigation: Use arrow keys to browse, SELECT to choose options. Info: Press INFO for program details and recording options.

Recording Features

Multiple recording options available.

  1. Single recording: Press RECORD or select from guide.
  2. Series recording: Record all episodes of a series automatically.
  3. Season Pass: Record entire season with one setting.
  4. Manual recording: Set recording by time and channel.
  5. Priority recording: Set recording priority for scheduling conflicts.
  6. Keep until: Choose to keep recordings until deleted or space needed.

Tip: Use Series Manager to manage all series recordings in one place.

Playback Options

Full control over recorded content.

  1. Play: Select recording from My Shows and press PLAY.
  2. Pause: Press PAUSE to temporarily stop playback.
  3. Rewind/Fast Forward: Use REW and FF buttons to navigate recording.
  4. Skip: Use SKIP buttons to jump forward/backward 30 seconds.
  5. Slow motion: Play in slow motion for detailed viewing.
  6. Chapter skip: Jump to next/previous chapter in recorded content.

WARNING! Do not disconnect power during playback to avoid data corruption.

Parental Controls

Set viewing restrictions and purchase limits.

  1. Parental Controls: Block programs by rating in SETTINGS menu.
  2. Purchase Controls: Set spending limits for pay-per-view.
  3. Channel Locks: Block specific channels from viewing.
  4. Default Password: 0000 (change upon first use).

Maintenance & Care

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

  1. Keep unit clean: Use dry cloth; no liquids.
  2. Ensure ventilation: Keep vents clear of obstructions.
  3. Regular updates: Allow automatic software updates.
  4. Storage management: Delete old recordings to free space.

CAUTION! Do not place objects on top of DVR; avoid heat sources.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. Copyright © DIRECTV LLC. All rights reserved. For support, visit www.directv.com/help or contact 1-800-531-5000. Manufactured under license from DIRECTV.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No satellite signalDish obstruction/connectionCheck dish alignment; ensure cables connected securely.
Recording failedStorage full/signal lossDelete old recordings; check signal strength.
Remote not workingBatteries/obstructionsReplace batteries; ensure clear path to receiver.
Slow performanceSoftware/hardwareRestart receiver; check for software updates.
No internet connectionNetwork issuesCheck Ethernet cable; restart router and receiver.

Reset: Menu > Settings > Reset > Restart Receiver

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

DIRECTV DVR Owners Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025