DIRECTV SD DVR Manual

The DIRECTV SD DVR is a standard definition digital video recorder that allows you to record, pause, and rewind live television. It features built-in satellite reception, multiple recording capabilities, program guide navigation, parental controls, and connectivity options for home entertainment systems. 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. Accessibility Features 9. Care & Maintenance 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: DVR unit with hard drive, Remote Control, Satellite input, Audio/Video outputs, USB port, Ethernet connection.

Feature	Description
Satellite input	For DIRECTV satellite signal reception
Audio/Video outputs	Composite and component video with stereo audio
USB port	For future expansions and updates
Ethernet port	For network connectivity and on-demand content
Hard drive	Internal storage for recorded programs
POWER	Turns DVR on/off
RECORD	Starts recording current program
PLAY/PAUSE	Controls playback of recorded content
GUIDE	Accesses electronic program guide
MENU	Accesses main settings menu

Installation

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

Connect satellite dish: Run coaxial cable from dish to SAT IN port on rear.
Connect to TV: Use composite or component cables to video inputs on television.
Connect audio: Use RCA audio cables to TV or home theater system.
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.

Satellite setup: Allow unit to detect satellite signal and download program guide.
Program guide initialization: Wait for guide data to download (may take 20-30 minutes).
Channel setup: Configure favorite channels and parental controls if desired.
Network setup: Connect Ethernet for on-demand features if available.

CAUTION! Do not disconnect power during initial setup to avoid corruption.

Specifications

Video Output: Standard Definition (480i)
Recording Capacity: Varies by model (typically 100+ hours SD)
Tuner: Dual tuner for recording two programs simultaneously
Audio: Stereo output, Dolby Digital capable
Connections: Satellite input, composite/component video, stereo audio, USB, Ethernet
Hard Drive: Internal for program storage
Power Source: 120V AC, 60Hz
Operating Temp: 40°F to 90°F (5°C to 35°C)

Controls and Settings

Access menu system via remote or front panel. Front Panel: POWER, CHANNEL, VOLUME, SELECT.

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

Settings: Parental controls, recording defaults, audio/video output, network settings, system information. Recording: Single show, series recording, manual recording. Playback: Play, pause, rewind, fast forward, skip forward/backward.

Connecting Devices

Satellite: Coaxial cable to SAT IN. TV: Composite/component video cables. Audio: Stereo RCA cables.

Turn off all devices before connecting cables.
Match cable colors to corresponding ports.
Select correct input on television (Video 1, Video 2, etc.).
For home theater: Connect audio outputs to receiver inputs.

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

Recording and Playback

Record live TV, schedule future recordings, manage recorded programs.

Record current show: Press RECORD button.
Schedule recording: Press RECORD while watching or from program guide.
Series recording: Set to record all episodes of a series.
Play recorded shows: Press LIST to view recorded programs, select and press PLAY.
Live TV pause: Press PAUSE during live TV (creates temporary buffer).
Skip commercials: Use 30-second skip button if available.
Manage recordings: Delete old recordings to free up space.

WARNING! Do not disconnect power during recording to avoid data loss.

Accessibility Features

Closed Captions: Enable in menu system (multiple format options). Audio Description: For visually impaired when available. Parental Controls: Block channels/programs by rating (default password 0000).

Care & Maintenance

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

CAUTION! Do not place objects on top of unit. Avoid liquid exposure.

Regulatory Information

FCC compliant digital device. Copyright protection technology incorporated. DIRECTV and related marks are trademarks of DIRECTV, LLC. For technical support, visit directv.com/help or call 1-800-531-5000.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No satellite signal	Dish obstruction/cable	Check dish alignment; ensure cables securely connected; check for weather interference.
Recording failures	Hard drive space/tuner conflict	Delete old recordings; check for simultaneous recording conflicts.
Remote not working	Batteries/obstructions	Replace batteries; ensure clear line of sight to DVR.
No video/audio	Connection/TV input	Check all cable connections; verify TV input selection.
Program guide missing	Signal/setup issue	Allow time for guide download; check satellite signal strength.

Reset: Unplug unit for 30 seconds, then reconnect for soft reset.

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