DIRECTV DVR Receiver Maintenance?

As a DIRECTV viewer, do you ever wonder about your DVR?  Specifically, do you ever think there’s something you should be doing to keep your DIRECTV DVR healthy?  If you still have a DIRECTV HR24 or earlier DVR, you might be wondering how it’s still operating after all the time you’ve had it.  These models have been around since 2010 and there are earlier models that are still out there functioning.  Truth be told, DIRECTV created these DVR units so that you don’t have to worry about them. There’s nothing to worry about here, and it’s easy to understand why if you look at the facts.

DIRECTV DVR Features

In its wisdom, DIRECTV has built a series of maintenance protocols into its DVRs.  These features keep your DIRECTV DVR operating at peak efficiency.  Specifically, it’s the use of Linux as a DIRECTV DVR operating system.  Because of the addition of Linux, you don’t have to worry about running a DIRECTV DVR defrag.  The DVR’s operating system is largely immune to the fragmentation you find with Windows-based devices.  When changes must be made to your DVR, Linux downloads new code, similar to the technology used in today’s cars.   

DIRECTV DVRs reserve a certain amount of hard drive space for repairs.  When the Linux disk and file checking routines discover that a part of the drive has stopped working, a spare region is used to compensate.  All of this goes on without viewers like you even realizing it’s happening, so there’s no need break out your DIRECTV DVR owners manual.  Do you even know where yours is?

Linux is extremely valuable when larger hard drive repairs need to be made.  In these situations, you usually have to reboot your DVR, or it reboots automatically.  When your DVR, which is a type of computer, reboots for an update, Linux makes a lot of checks.  It takes a deep dive into your hard drive and triggers an automatic “rescue” routine if it needs it. In many cases, this is enough to restore your DIRECTV DVR to its proper functions.

DIRECTV HD and 4K Upgrades

So, as you can see, your DIRECTV DVR system will live a long and happy life.  What might not last as long is your DIRECTV standard definition (SD) programming.  Do you have DIRECTV in your RV, boat, big rig, or other vehicle?  If so, you might want to pay close attention to these details.  Many of these installations are still using DIRECTV’s SD programming.  If this is you, we recommend upgrading to DIRECTV high definition (HD) or 4K as soon as possible. 

DIRECTV has already begun the process of turning off standard definition local channels in some markets. They’re expected to keep the national channels on line for some time, but eventually they will be phased out as well. This is part of DIRECTV’s commitment to providing a modern product to its customers. It’s not so much a matter of satellite capacity, as DIRECTV has three large satellites that are more than capable. But, keeping up the standard definition pipeline takes more time, effort, and equipment on the ground as well. Most folks have moved away from SD, and the return on investment isn’t there.

When it comes to upgrading your DIRECTV programming, you’ll move to the front of the line. All of today’s equipment packages include HD programming. Most include 4K programming. Even customers with boats and RVs will get some HD programming even if they have a smaller dish. There’s expected to be more HD programming as well, as SD channels leave DIRECTV’s 101 location, making room for HD versions of the same national content.

DIRECTV Upgrade Packages from Signal Connect

Would you like to replace your SD programming with a DIRECTV upgrade package?  Signal Connect is here to help you every step of the way.  As a DIRECTV National Accounts dealer, we have DIRECTV upgrade packages for HD and 4K.  If you’re not sure which one is best for your business or vehicle, we can help.  If you have any questions about DIRECTV HD or 4K upgrades, just call our representatives at 888-233-7563. We’re here to answer all your questions and help you find the DIRECTV upgrade that’s best for you.

About the Author

Jake Buckler
Jake Buckler is a cord-cutter, consumer electronics geek, and Celtic folk music fan. Those qualities, and his writing experience, helped him land a copywriting gig at Signal Group, LLC. He also contributes to The Solid Signal Blog.