DIRECTV HD DVR HR21 Manual

The DIRECTV HD DVR HR21 is a high-definition digital video recorder with satellite TV reception, dual tuner capability, 1080i/720p HD resolution support, built-in 250GB hard drive for recording up to 100 hours of HD programming, USB ports for external storage, HDMI and component video outputs, Dolby Digital audio, interactive program guide, parental controls, and network connectivity. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, 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. Accessibility Features 9. Care & Cleaning 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

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

Feature	Description
Satellite input	For DIRECTV satellite dish connection
HDMI output	For high-definition digital video and audio
Component video outputs	For HD analog video connection
USB ports	For external storage devices and media playback
Ethernet port	For network connectivity and on-demand content
Optical audio output	For digital audio connection
POWER	Turns DVR on/off
RESET	Reboots the system
RECORD	Starts recording current program
GUIDE	Displays interactive program guide

Installation

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

Connect satellite dish: Run coaxial cable from dish to SAT IN port on rear panel.
Connect to TV: Use HDMI cable for best quality or component cables for HD analog.
Connect audio: Use optical cable for surround sound or RCA audio cables.
Connect to network: Use Ethernet cable for on-demand and interactive features.
Plug into AC power.

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

First-Time Setup

Power on DVR; follow on-screen prompts.

Satellite signal acquisition: System will automatically search for satellite signal.
Program guide download: Wait for complete program guide download (may take 20-30 minutes).
Network setup: Configure network settings for on-demand content.
Parental controls: Set up PIN (default 0000) for content restrictions.
Recording defaults: Set recording quality and series link preferences.

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

Specifications

Storage Capacity: 250GB hard drive (approx. 100 hours HD, 300 hours SD)
Video Resolution: 1080i, 720p, 480p, 480i
Tuner System: Dual tuner for recording two programs simultaneously
Audio: Dolby Digital 5.1, stereo audio output
Connectivity: HDMI, component video, composite video, optical audio, USB, Ethernet
Recording Features: Series link, season pass, manual recording, pause live TV
Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz
Operating Temp: 40°F to 90°F (5°C to 35°C)

Controls and Settings

Access menu system via MENU button. Front Panel: POWER, SELECT, CHANNEL UP/DOWN.

Remote: POWER, MENU, GUIDE, INFO, EXIT, SELECT, COLORED buttons (A,B,C,D), RECORD, PLAY, PAUSE, STOP, REWIND, FAST FORWARD.

Settings: Display (resolution, aspect ratio), Audio (digital audio output, volume leveling), Parental (ratings locks, purchase blocks), System (network, diagnostics), Recordings (default quality, manage space).

Connecting Devices

Satellite: SAT IN port. TV: HDMI or component/composite outputs. Audio: Optical or RCA audio. Network: Ethernet port.

Turn off all devices before connecting.
Use high-quality cables for best performance.
Configure TV input to match connection (HDMI 1, Component, etc.).
Run satellite signal test in menu to verify connection.

Tip: Use HDMI connection for simplest setup and best quality.

Recording and Playback

Supports live TV pausing, single recording, series recording.

Record current program: Press RECORD button.
Record future program: Select program in guide, choose RECORD OPTIONS.
Series recording: Select SERIES LINK for all episodes of a show.
Playback: Press LIST to view recorded programs, select to play.
Skip: Use 30-second skip button or fast forward.
Pause live TV: Press PAUSE during live broadcast.
Manage recordings: Delete old recordings to free space.
External storage: Connect USB drive for additional storage.

WARNING! Do not disconnect power during recording. Allow adequate ventilation.

Accessibility Features

Closed Captions: Enable in menu system (multiple format options). Audio Description: For visually impaired (when available). Parental Controls: Block by rating, channel, or content type (default PIN 0000).

Care & Cleaning

Unplug before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth only; no liquids or chemicals.

CAUTION! Do not open unit; no user-serviceable parts inside. Keep away from moisture.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits. Copyright © DIRECTV. For support, visit www.directv.com or contact 1-800-531-5000. This device incorporates copyright protection technology.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No satellite signal	Dish alignment/connections	Check dish alignment; verify cable connections; run signal test.
Recording failures	Hard drive space/tuner conflict	Delete old recordings; check for tuner conflicts; reboot system.
No HD picture	TV settings/cable issues	Verify TV input settings; check HDMI/component cable; adjust resolution.
Remote not working	Batteries/IR sensor	Replace batteries; ensure clear path to IR sensor; check remote mode.
Slow performance	Software/hard drive	Reboot system; check for software updates; may need service.

Reset: Menu > Settings > Reset > Restart Receiver

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