DIRECTV’s new Genie 2, codenamed HS17, is just now seeping into some markets, while other people are still locked out. So it’s time to ask questions that will help you decide whether or not to wait for it. The biggest one for some people is whether or not you can install it yourself.
Several comments across the internet have people worried because it’s being reported that the HS17 can only be installed by DIRECTV’s own people using a special app. That’s true, and it’s also false.
Remember that DIRECTV’s rules state that ALL initial installs must be done by their installers. At least for now, DIRECTV’s rules say that only new installs get HS17 Genie 2’s, so by that logic all HS17 Genie 2s must be professionally installed.
But I’m here to tell you that it’s possible to do it yourself. I’ve done it.
The key is that the clients must be registered on DIRECTV’s systems before you start. Personally I found the process easier with a wired client than a wireless one, because with a wireless one you also need to consider if there’s a good wireless signal. Taking a client off an account is much harder than putting one on, and so DIRECTV’s installers use a special app that lets them set up the Genie 2 without a client installed. Remember there’s no video output on a Genie 2 so you need something (either an app or a client) to let you see what you’re doing.
The way I think it’s going to work when customers get an HS17 Genie 2 from Solid Signal is, you will call us to make sure that all the information on your account is 100% accurate and we will stay on the phone with you while you activate, the same as we would with any other customer. I don’t think the online activation portal will work, even if this is an upgrade or replacement.
Of course we’re all in the very early stages of this new hardware and things could always change but for now, don’t believe other people who say it can’t be done. I’ve done it.
