DIRECTV HR21 Receiver Manual

The DIRECTV HR21 is a high-definition digital video recorder receiver with dual tuners, built-in 320GB hard drive for recording up to 200 hours of standard definition or 50 hours of high-definition programming, HDMI output, component video outputs, optical audio output, USB port for external storage, and advanced features like Series Link™ and DIRECTV On Demand. Below are key sections for setup, operation, features, 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. Advanced Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: HD DVR receiver with dual tuners, Remote Control, HDMI output, Component video outputs, Optical audio output, USB port, Ethernet port.

Feature	Description
Dual Tuners	Watch one program while recording another
320GB Hard Drive	Stores up to 200 hours SD or 50 hours HD content
HDMI Output	For high-definition digital video and audio
Component Video Outputs	For HD analog video connection
Optical Audio Output	For digital audio to home theater systems
USB Port	For external storage expansion
Ethernet Port	For network connectivity and On Demand
POWER	Turns receiver on/off
RESET	Reboots the receiver
RECORD	Starts recording current program

Installation

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

Connect satellite dish: Run coaxial cable from dish to SATELLITE IN port.
Connect to TV: Use HDMI or component cables for best HD quality.
Connect audio: Use optical audio for home theater systems.
Connect to network: Use Ethernet cable for On Demand features.
Plug into AC power.

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

First-Time Setup

Power on receiver; follow on-screen prompts.

Satellite setup: Run satellite signal setup to locate and lock signal.
Program guide download: Allow 20-30 minutes for initial guide data download.
Network setup: Configure network settings for On Demand access.
Parental controls: Set up PIN in SYSTEM SETUP menu.
Recording defaults: Set recording quality and series options.

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

Specifications

Storage Capacity: 320GB hard drive (200 hrs SD / 50 hrs HD)
Tuners: Dual satellite tuners
Video Outputs: HDMI, Component, Composite, S-Video
Audio Outputs: Optical digital, Analog stereo
Connectivity: USB 2.0, Ethernet 10/100
Supported Resolutions: 480i, 480p, 720p, 1080i
Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz
Operating Temp: 40°F to 90°F (5°C to 32°C)

Controls and Settings

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

Remote: POWER, MENU, GUIDE, INFO, LIST, DVR, directional pad, SELECT, EXIT, numbered buttons.

Display: Video format (480i, 480p, 720p, 1080i), screen format (Normal, Stretch, Zoom). Audio: Dolby Digital, audio mode. Parental: Ratings blocking, purchase PIN. System: Network setup, satellite setup, diagnostics. DVR: Recording defaults, manage recordings, series options.

Connecting Devices

Satellite: SATELLITE IN port. TV: HDMI or component/composite. Audio: Optical or analog. Network: Ethernet.

Turn off all devices before connecting.
Use high-quality HDMI cable for best HD performance.
Ensure satellite cable connections are tight and secure.
Select correct input on TV (HDMI 1, Component, etc.)

Tip: Label cables for easy identification during setup.

Recording and Playback

Record live TV, schedule recordings, manage stored content.

Record current show: Press RECORD button.
Schedule recording: Press RECORD from program info or guide.
Series Link: Record entire series with one selection.
Playback: Press PLAY; use FF/REW for 30-second skip or slow motion.
Manage recordings: Press LIST to view and delete recordings.
Season Pass: Automatically record new episodes of series.
WishList: Record programs based on title, actor, or keyword.
On Demand: Download movies and shows via internet connection.

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

Advanced Features

Series Link™: Automatically records all episodes of a series. DIRECTV On Demand: Download content via internet. Multi-Room Viewing: Watch recorded programs on other DIRECTV receivers. External Storage: Expand recording capacity via USB.

Care & Maintenance

Keep unit clean and dust-free. Ensure proper ventilation. Regularly delete unwanted recordings to free space.

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

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits for residential use. Copyright © DIRECTV LLC. For support, visit www.directv.com or contact 1-800-531-5000. This device contains software subject to license agreements.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No satellite signal	Dish alignment/connections	Check cable connections; run satellite setup; ensure clear line of sight.
Recording failed	Hard drive space/tuner conflict	Delete old recordings; check for scheduling conflicts.
No HD picture	Video settings/cables	Check HDMI/component connections; verify HD resolution settings.
Receiver frozen	Software issue	Press red reset button; unplug for 15 seconds then restart.
No On Demand	Network connection	Check Ethernet cable; verify network settings; restart receiver.

Reset: Red reset button on front panel or unplug power.

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