DIRECTV HR20 Receiver Manual

The DIRECTV HR20 is a high-definition digital video recorder with dual tuners, built-in satellite receiver, 320GB hard drive storage, HDMI output, component video, composite video, optical audio output, Ethernet connectivity, and advanced recording features. 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. Parental Controls 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: High-definition DVR, Remote Control, Satellite inputs, HDMI output, Component video, Ethernet port, USB port.

FeatureDescription
Satellite inputsDual tuners for recording two programs simultaneously
HDMI outputFor high-definition digital video and audio connection
Component video outputsFor HD analog video connection
Optical audio outputFor digital audio connection to home theater systems
Ethernet portFor network connectivity and on-demand content
USB portFor future expansions and software updates
POWERTurns receiver on/off
RESETReboots the receiver
RECORDStarts recording current program
GUIDEAccesses electronic program guide

Installation

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

  1. Connect satellite dish: Run coaxial cables from dish to SAT 1 and SAT 2 inputs.
  2. Connect to TV: Use HDMI or component cables for video; audio cables for sound.
  3. Connect to home network: Use Ethernet cable for network features.
  4. Plug into AC power and turn on.

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

First-Time Setup

Power on receiver; follow on-screen setup wizard.

  1. Satellite signal setup: Allow receiver to detect and lock satellite signal.
  2. Program guide download: Wait for initial program guide download to complete.
  3. Network setup: Configure network settings for on-demand features.
  4. Parental controls: Set up PIN if desired (default 0000).

CAUTION! Do not interrupt initial setup; process may take 20-30 minutes.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access menu system via MENU button. Front Panel: POWER, SELECT, FORMAT.

Remote: POWER, GUIDE, MENU, INFO, SELECT, RECORD, PLAY, PAUSE, REWIND, FAST FORWARD.

Display: Resolution settings (480i, 480p, 720p, 1080i), screen format (16:9, 4:3). Audio: Digital audio output (Dolby Digital, PCM), volume control. System: Network setup, satellite setup, diagnostics. Recording: Default recording quality, series recording options.

Connecting Devices

Satellite: Dual coaxial inputs. TV: HDMI/Component/Composite. Audio: Optical/analog. Network: Ethernet.

  1. Turn off all devices before connecting cables.
  2. Use high-quality HDMI cables for best HD performance.
  3. Connect Ethernet cable for on-demand and interactive features.
  4. Select correct input on TV for receiver output.

Tip: Label cables for easy identification during setup.

Recording and Playback

Supports single program recording, series recording, and dual-tuner recording.

  1. Record program: Press RECORD button or schedule from guide.
  2. Series recording: Select "Record Series" from program info screen.
  3. Playback: Access recorded programs from LIST menu.
  4. Live TV pause: Press PAUSE during live TV to buffer program.
  5. Manage recordings: Delete or protect recordings from recorded programs list.
  6. External storage: Not supported for recording expansion.

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

Parental Controls

Channel Lock: Block specific channels. Rating Block: Restrict content by TV/Movie ratings. Purchase Controls: Require PIN for pay-per-view purchases.

Care & Maintenance

Keep unit clean and dust-free. Ensure proper ventilation around receiver.

CAUTION! Do not place objects on top of receiver. Allow at least 2 inches clearance on all sides for ventilation.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device compliant. Manufactured under license from DIRECTV. Copyright © 2007 DIRECTV, Inc. All rights reserved. For technical support, visit www.directv.com or contact 1-800-DIRECTV.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No satellite signalDish alignment/cablesCheck dish alignment; ensure cables securely connected; run signal test.
Recording failedHard drive space/tuner conflictDelete old recordings; check for scheduling conflicts.
No HD pictureHDMI connection/settingsCheck HDMI cable; verify HD resolution settings; try different input.
Guide not updatingSatellite signal/networkEnsure strong satellite signal; check network connection for guide data.
Receiver frozenSoftware issuePerform red button reset; unplug for 30 seconds and restart.

Reset: Red button reset or unplug power for hard reset.

Service: 1-800-DIRECTV; www.directv.com

DIRECTV HR20 Receiver Manual © - All Rights Reserved 2025