Learn all about “Tuner Math”
As we all move from single-tuner and dual-tuner DVRs to new super DVRs like the DIRECTV HR34 Genie, our systems get more and more complex. Even if you’re not a hobbyist you might want to understand a…
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What’s new in the DIRECTV RC66 remote?
Can you tell the difference between these two remotes? They look oddly similar. In fact, they look pretty much like every DIRECTV remote made in the last 10 years, right? Sure, these are backlit remotes, but…
NICE AND EASY: Comparing the HR34 and HR44 Genie DVRs
A lot of folks want a simple answer: What does the HR44 have that the HR34 doesn’t? Here’s the quick and easy answer: External, user-replaceable power supply Internal Wi-Fi (for internet connection) RF compatibility with RC71…
TIP: How to install an HR44 Genie DVR
Here’s a nice, easy diagram showing the most common install scenario for HR44 Genie DVRs. Do you have a specific installation need? Post it here and we’ll help!
EDITORIAL: I’ll admit it, I’m a little afraid of Google Glass
I have never thought of myself as one of “those guys.” You know, the old greybeards who are too afraid of new technology to embrace it. I was the first person to embrace connected personal devices,…
Is it true that satellite has worse picture quality than cable?
In most cases, no. There are still a lot of people who think that fiber-based TV services like FiOS and U-Verse have better picture quality than cable. There was a time that was true… no more….
A brief history of video storage
Believe it or not, what you see above you is a video tape recorder. You couldn’t call it a VCR since there’s no cassette. It wasn’t very user-friendly but it did the job. Video storage sure…
How far can a wi-fi signal travel?
Quick answer: further than you can imagine. We’re often frustrated when our wi-fi doesn’t travel all the way from one end of the house to the other. We swear under our breath when it doesn’t…
HOW TO DO IT: Assemble the Xtreme Signal HDB4X
The Xtreme Signal HDB4X antenna from Solid Signal is a great combination of durability and performance. It’s the right antenna for you if you: Need an outdoor antenna for good reception Live within 45 miles of…
HOW TO DO IT: Assemble the Xtreme Signal HDB2X
The Xtreme Signal HDB2X antenna from Solid Signal is a great combination of durability and performance. It’s the right antenna for you if you: Need an outdoor antenna for good reception Live within 35 miles of…
Are you familiar with Dieter Rams? You probably should be.
It turns out this guy is the most relevant designer today. Yes, this guy. His name is Dieter Rams and he was the designer for the German consumer electronics company Braun in the 1960s. Everyone talked…
TIP: Connect your Genie to the internet without a Cinema Connection Kit!
Special thanks to forum member PhoenixAZ for this tip! You know you want to connect your DVR to the internet. There’s just so much good stuff out there. On Demand, YouTube videos, Pandora… it gives you…
Hate the new HR44 remote? Use the old one instead
You’re not the only one who doesn’t like the RC71 remote that ships with the new HR44 and C41 boxes from DIRECTV. The new remote has received its share of criticism from the power user community because it lacks many…
TIP: Program your RC71 remote to control your RVU TV
With DIRECTV’s Genie DVR and a late model Sony or Samsung TV, you can have an almost wire-free experience. The new Sony and Samsung TVs have RVU technology built in, meaning that you don’t even need a…
TIP: Here’s the setup guide for the DIRECTV Commercial iPad App
We’re consistently impressed with DIRECTV’s iPad app. In its latest iteration, it adds features for Commercial Users. DIRECTV is rolling out the backend support for these features including commercial account support at DIRECTV.com. Part of that is…