DIRECTV Genie HD DVR User Manual

The DIRECTV Genie HD DVR is a high-definition digital video recorder with advanced recording capabilities, whole-home integration, HD streaming, voice remote control, and access to thousands of on-demand titles. Features include 4K Ultra HD support (on compatible models), 1TB storage capacity, simultaneous recording of up to 5 shows, and integration with DIRECTV Genie Mini clients. Below are key sections for setup, features, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation and Setup 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, Voice Remote, Power Cord, HDMI Cable, Satellite Input Connectors, Ethernet Port, USB Ports.

FeatureDescription
Satellite InputFor DIRECTV satellite signal connection
HDMI OutputFor high-definition video and audio connection
Ethernet PortFor internet connectivity and on-demand content
USB PortsFor external storage and future expansions
Component VideoFor standard HD video connection
Optical AudioFor digital audio output
POWERTurns DVR on/off
RESETSystem reset button
RECORDManual recording control
GUIDEAccesses electronic program guide

Installation and Setup

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

  1. Connect satellite dish: Use coaxial cables from dish to satellite input connectors.
  2. Connect to TV: Use HDMI cable for best quality; component cables as alternative.
  3. Connect to internet: Use Ethernet cable for on-demand and streaming features.
  4. Plug into AC power outlet.
  5. Connect Genie Mini clients for whole-home viewing (optional).

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

First-Time Setup

Power on DVR and TV; follow on-screen setup wizard.

  1. Satellite signal setup: Allow automatic satellite signal detection and download.
  2. Internet connection: Configure network settings for on-demand content.
  3. Program guide download: Wait for complete guide download (may take 20-30 minutes).
  4. Remote setup: Program remote to control TV and audio system.
  5. System preferences: Set recording defaults and parental controls.

CAUTION! Do not interrupt initial setup process; ensure stable satellite signal during download.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access menu system via remote control. Front Panel: POWER, RECORD, MESSAGE indicators.

Remote: POWER, GUIDE, MENU, DVR, INFO, directional pad, SELECT, EXIT, numbers, colored buttons (A-B-C-D), VOICE control.

Settings: Parental Controls (default PIN 0000), Display (resolution, screen format), Audio (digital audio output), Recording (default quality, series manager), Network (internet setup), System (software updates).

Connecting Devices

Satellite: Coaxial inputs. TV: HDMI or component. Internet: Ethernet. Audio: Optical or RCA.

  1. Turn off all devices before connecting cables.
  2. Use high-speed HDMI cables for best HD/4K quality.
  3. Connect Ethernet cable for internet features.
  4. Configure audio system through audio settings.

Tip: Use DIRECTV app for smartphone control and setup assistance.

Recording and Playback

Advanced recording features: Series recording, season pass, manual recording.

  1. Single recording: Press RECORD or select from guide.
  2. Series recording: Set up season pass for entire series.
  3. Manage recordings: Access DVR list to view, delete, or protect recordings.
  4. Playback controls: PLAY, PAUSE, REWIND, FAST FORWARD, SKIP (30-second skip).
  5. Restart: Restart current program from beginning (when available).
  6. On-Demand: Access thousands of movies and shows through on-demand library.

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

Whole-Home DVR Features

Genie Mini clients allow viewing and recording control from any TV in home.

  1. Setup: Connect Genie Mini to secondary TVs via coaxial or wireless.
  2. Viewing: Access all recordings and live TV from any connected TV.
  3. Recording: Schedule recordings from any Genie Mini client.
  4. Limitations: Maximum 3 simultaneous streams from DVR library.

Care & Maintenance

Keep unit clean and dust-free. Ensure proper ventilation. Regular software updates.

CAUTION! Do not place objects on top of unit. Keep away from heat sources and moisture.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device compliant. Copyright protection technologies. Manufactured under license from DIRECTV. For technical support, visit directv.com/support or contact 1-800-531-5000. Software updates automatically delivered via satellite.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No satellite signalDish obstruction/connectionCheck dish alignment; ensure cables securely connected; check for weather interference.
Recording failedStorage/signal conflictCheck available storage; ensure no tuner conflicts; verify program information.
Remote not workingBatteries/IR pathReplace batteries; ensure clear path to receiver; re-pair remote if needed.
No on-demand contentInternet connectionCheck Ethernet connection; restart receiver; verify network settings.
Poor video qualityHDMI/ResolutionCheck HDMI connection; verify TV resolution settings; try different HDMI port.

Reset: Red button reset or menu system reset if experiencing issues.

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

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