DIRECTV R16-500 Manual

The DIRECTV R16-500 is a standard-definition digital video recorder with 160GB hard drive capacity, supporting recording and playback of DIRECTV programming. Features include dual tuners for recording two shows simultaneously, DIRECTV Plus HD DVR functionality, USB port for media playback, component and composite video outputs, optical audio output, and Ethernet connectivity. 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. Parental Controls 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: 160GB hard drive, dual tuners, remote control, component video outputs, composite video outputs, optical audio output, USB port, Ethernet port.

FeatureDescription
Hard Drive Capacity160GB for approximately 50 hours of recording
Dual TunersWatch one program while recording another
Component Video OutputsFor high-quality video connection
Composite Video OutputStandard video connection
Optical Audio OutputFor digital audio connection
USB PortFor media playback from external devices
Ethernet PortFor network connectivity
RECORDStarts recording current program
PLAY/PAUSEControls playback of recorded content
POWERTurns DVR on/off

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Place near television with adequate ventilation.

  1. Connect satellite dish: Use coaxial cable from satellite dish to SAT IN port.
  2. Connect to television: Use component or composite cables for video, audio cables for sound.
  3. Connect audio system: Use optical audio cable for digital audio output.
  4. Plug into AC power and turn on.

WARNING! Ensure proper ventilation around unit to prevent overheating. Keep away from heat sources.

First-Time Setup

Power on DVR; follow on-screen setup wizard.

  1. Satellite signal setup: Point dish using signal strength meter in menu.
  2. Program guide download: Allow 20-30 minutes for initial guide download.
  3. Set preferences: Configure recording defaults and display settings.
  4. Network setup: Connect Ethernet for interactive features if available.

CAUTION! Do not disconnect power during initial setup or software updates.

Specifications

Controls and Settings

Access menu system via MENU button on remote. Front Panel: POWER, CHANNEL up/down, SELECT.

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

Settings: Display (resolution, screen format), Audio (digital output, volume control), Parental (ratings locks), System (network, diagnostics). Recording: Default recording options, manage recordings, disk space.

Connecting Devices

Satellite: SAT IN port. Television: Component/composite video outputs. Audio: Optical/analog audio outputs.

  1. Turn off all devices before connecting cables.
  2. Match cable types to appropriate ports.
  3. Select correct input on television (Component, Video 1, etc.).

Tip: Use high-quality cables for best video and audio performance.

Recording and Playback

Record programs manually or using guide.

  1. Single recording: Press RECORD while watching program.
  2. Series recording: Select program in guide, choose "Record Series"
  3. Playback: Press LIST to view recorded programs, select to play.
  4. Playback controls: PLAY, PAUSE, REWIND, FAST FORWARD, SKIP.
  5. Manage recordings: Delete programs to free up space.
  6. Season Pass: Automatically record all episodes of a series.
  7. WishList: Record programs based on title, actor, or keyword.

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

Parental Controls

Set viewing restrictions by rating in PARENTAL menu. Block specific channels or programs. Set purchase limits for pay-per-view.

Care & Maintenance

Keep unit clean and dust-free. Ensure adequate ventilation. Do not block ventilation openings.

CAUTION! Unplug unit before cleaning. Use soft, dry cloth only.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15 Class B digital device. Complies with Canadian ICES-003. Copyright protection technology. For support, visit directv.com or contact 1-800-531-5000. DIRECTV and the Cyclone Design logo are registered trademarks of DIRECTV, LLC.

Troubleshooting

SymptomPossible CauseCorrective Action
No satellite signalDish alignment/connectionsCheck dish alignment; verify cable connections; run signal test.
Recording failedDisk space/tuner conflictCheck available disk space; ensure tuner available; delete old recordings.
Remote not workingBatteries/obstructionsReplace batteries; ensure clear path to receiver; check remote mode.
No video/audioCable connectionsVerify all cables connected properly; check TV input selection.
Guide not updatingSignal/settingsEnsure strong satellite signal; allow time for guide download; reset receiver.

Reset: Unplug power for 30 seconds, then reconnect.

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

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