User manual DIRECTV HIRD-E25

Digital Satellite Receiver Owner's Manual Model: HIRD-E11 HIRD-E25 Trademarks and Copyrights-- Software contained in the digital satellite receiver and this manual is copyright © 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998 and 1999 by Hughes Network Systems. Some features are patent pending. WatchWord, PreSelect, TurboTune, and OneLine Guide are trademarks of Hughes Network Systems. DIRECTV, DIRECTV PLUS and DIRECT TICKET are trademarks of DIRECTV, Inc. a unit of Hughes Electronics Corp., and are used with permission. "NFL," the NFL Shield and "NFL SUNDAY TICKET" are registered trademarks of The National Football League and its affiliates. "NBA LEAGUE PASS" is a trademark of NBA Properties, Inc. "NHL," the NHL Shield and "NHL CENTER ICE" are registered trademarks of the National Hockey League. "ESPN Full Court" and "MLS/ESPN SHOOTOUT" are trademarks of ESPN, Inc. "MLB," "MLB EXTRA INNINGS," "Major League Baseball" and the Major League Baseball silhouetted batter logo are service marks of Major League Baseball Properties, Inc. Major League Baseball trademarks and copyright are used with permission of Major League Baseball Properties, Inc. All other trademarks and service marks are the property of their respective owners. This product is the subject of one or more U.S. or foreign patents pending. Disclaimer--Every effort has been made to ensure the correctness and completeness of the material in this document. No company shall be liable for errors contained herein. The information in this document is subject to change without notice. No warranty of any kind is made with regard to this material, including, but not limited to, the implied warranties of merchantability and fitness for a particular purpose. StarSight Information--StarSight ® features licensed under one or more of the following U.S. patents: 4,706,121; 5,151,789; 5,335,277; 5,353,121; 5,479,266; 5,479,268; and 5,532,754. Use rights reserved. Macrovision Information--This device incorporates an anticopy process technology that is protected by U.S. patents and other intellectual property rights. The anticopy process is licensed for noncommercial, home use only. Reverse engineering or disassembly is prohibited. Note on Recording Programming--Most television programs and films are copyrighted. This means that someone has legal rights governing the reproduction and distribution of this material. In certain circumstances, copyright law may apply to private in-home taping of copyrighted materials. In most cases, it is permissible to record for personal use, as long as you do not sell the material. You must act responsibly in this area -- check into the matter if you are unsure. Some pay per view programs may be licensed from producers as "view only" programs. These are copyrighted programs and may not be copied or reproduced for any purpose without the express written permission of the copyright owner. DIRECTV® PLUS System Programming--For subscription information, or to resolve problems related to DIRECTV® PLUS System programming, call the service provider, DIRECTV at 1-800-DIRECTV (347-3288). DIRECTV PLUS System Hardware and Installation-- To arrange for professional installation of your DIRECTV PLUS System, ask questions, or to resolve problems related to your DIRECTV PLUS System, contact your dealer. If additional information is needed, please contact the Customer Care Center toll free at 1-800-274-8995. Hughes Customer Care Center 1-800-274-8995 Subscriptions and PPV 1-800-DIRECTV PLEASE MAKE NOTE OF THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION FOR WARRANTY System Model #: HSYS- E ____ ____ ____ ____ Receiver Model #: HIRD- E ____ ____ Receiver Serial #: ___________________________ Access Card #: __________ __________ __________ LNB Serial #: ________________________________ IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS For your safety and protection, read this entire Owner's Manual before you attempt to install or use your DIRECTV PLUS System. In particular, read this safety section carefully. Keep this safety information where you can refer to it if necessary. Heed Warnings--All warnings on the product and in the operating instructions should be adhered to. Follow Instructions--All operating and use instructions should be followed. THESE ARE DEFINITIONS FOR ALERTS USED IN THIS MANUAL WARNING or CAUTION Where you see this alert symbol and the WARNING or CAUTION heading, strictly follow the warning instructions to avoid personal injury. DANGER Electric shock hazard: Where you see these symbol and the DANGER heading, strictly follow the warning instructions to avoid electric shock injury. THESE ALERTS APPEAR IN THIS MANUAL DANGER WARNING Do not select a location to install the satellite dish antenna near power lines. You can be killed if the satellite dish antenna comes into contact with electric power lines. · · Do not contact overhead power lines Check the distance to any nearby power lines before starting installation. Stay at least 20 feet away from all power lines. If any part of the satellite dish antenna or mast assembly comes into contact with a power line, call your local power company. Do not try to remove it yourself. They will remove it safely. · · For your own safety, follow these important safety rules: · Perform as many functions as possible on the ground. Do not install the satellite dish antenna on a rainy or windy day. If you start to drop the satellite dish antenna or mast assembly, get away from it and let it fall. · CAUTION Local electric codes and the National Electric Code (NEC) require the satellite dish antenna to be grounded. Grounding the satellite dish antenna helps protect against damage caused by static voltage buildup. Grounding can also protect against voltage surges created by nearby lightning strikes. INSTALLATION Polarization--This DIRECTV PLUS digital satellite receiver is equipped with a plug that will fit into the power outlet only one way. Do not modify the plug defeating this feature. If the plug does not fit, contact your electrician to replace your outlet. To prevent electric shock, do not use this plug with an extension cord or outlet unless you can fully insert the blades without blade exposure. Power Sources--Operate this DIRECTV PLUS digital satellite receiver only from the type of power source indicated on the marking label. If you are not sure of the type of power supply to your home, consult your dealer or local power company. Power-Cord Protection--Power-supply cords should be routed so that they are not likely to be walked on or pinched by items placed upon or against them, pay particular attention to cords at plugs, convenience receptacles, and at the point where they exit from the product. Overloading--Do not overload wall outlets, extension cords, or integral convenience receptacles as this can result in a risk of fire or electric shock. Ventilation--Slots and openings in the cabinet are provided for ventilation and to ensure reliable operation of the product and to protect it from overheating, and these openings must not be blocked or covered. The openings should never be blocked by placing the product on a bed, sofa, rug, or other similar surface. This product should not be placed in a built-in installation such as a bookcase or rack unless proper ventilation is provided or the manufacturer's instructions have been adhered to. For electrical safety, power line operated equipment or accessories connected to this unit should bear the UL listing mark should not be modified so as to defeat the safety features. This will help avoid any potential hazard from electrical shock or fire. If in doubt, contact qualified service personnel. Heat--The product should be situated away from heat sources such as radiators, heat registers, stoves, or other products (including amplifiers) that produce heat. Accessories--To avoid personal injury or damage to the digital satellite receiver, do not place the digital satellite receiver on any unstable cart, stand, table, or bracket. Any mounting of the product should follow the manufacturer's instructions. Attachments--Do not use attachments unless recommended by Hughes as they may cause hazards. Satellite Dish Antenna Grounding--The outdoor satellite dish antenna used to receive satellite signals and the cable used to connect the satellite dish antenna to the indoor receiving unit are required to comply with local installation codes and the appropriate sections of the National Electric Code (NEC) and in particular Article 81015, which covers proper installation and grounding of television receiving equipment, as well as to Article 820EXAMPLE OF ANTENNA GROUNDING ACCORDING TO THE NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE INSTRUCTIONS CONTAINED IN "RADIO AND TELEVISION EQUIPMENT" Water and Moisture-- WARNING! To reduce the risk of fire or electric shock, do not expose this product to rain or moisture. Lightning--For added protection for this product during a lightning storm, or when it is left unattended and unused for long periods of time, unplug it from the wall outlet, disconnect the antenna and cable system, and disconnect it from the telephone line. This will prevent damage to the product due to lightning and power-line surges. Television Antenna Information--Installing an outdoor antenna can be hazardous and should be left to a professional antenna installer. Do not locate the outside antenna system in the vicinity of overhead power lines or other electric light or power circuits, or where it can fall into such power lines or circuits. When installing an outside antenna system, take extreme care to keep from touching such power lines or circuits, as contact with them might be fatal. If an outside antenna is connected to the digital satellite receiver, be sure the antenna system is grounded so as to provide some protection against voltage surges and built-up static charges. Section 810 of the NEC, NFPA No. 70 1987, provides information with respect to proper grounding of the mast and supporting structure, grounding of the lead-in wire to an antenna discharge unit, size of the grounding conductors, location of antenna discharge unit, connection to grounding electrodes, and requirements for the grounding electrode. Note to CATV System Installer--This reminder is provided to call the CATV system installer's attention to 33, which specifies that the satellite dish antenna cable ground shall be connected to the grounding system of the building as close to the point of cable entry as practical. These codes require proper grounding of the metal structure of the outdoor satellite dish antenna and grounding of the connecting cable at a point where it enters the house (or other building). If you are having a professional installer make the installation, the installer must observe installation codes. This manual contains instructions on how to make the installation in compliance with the NEC. If additional local installation codes apply, contact local inspection authorities. Section 820-40 of the NEC which provides guidelines for proper grounding an, in particular, specifies that the cable ground shall be connected to the grounding system of the building, as close to the point of cable entry as practical. Power Lines--Extreme care must be taken when installing and adjusting or maintaining the outdoor antenna and connecting cable, especially in the vicinity of overhead power lines, electric lights, or power circuits. When installing the outdoor antenna or cable, extreme care should be taken to keep from touching or approaching such power lines or circuits, as contact with them might be fatal. Cleaning--Unplug this DIRECTV PLUS System from the wall outlet before cleaning. Do not use liquid cleaners or aerosol cleaners. Use a damp cloth for cleaning. Object and Liquid Entry--Never push objects of any kind into this DIRECTV PLUS System product through openings as they may touch dangerous voltages or "short out" parts that could result in a fire or electric shock. Never spill liquid of any kind on the DIRECTV PLUS System. SERVICE Servicing--Do not attempt to service this DIRECTV PLUS System yourself as opening or removing covers may expose you to dangerous voltage or other hazards. There are no user serviceable parts inside. Refer all servicing to qualified service personnel. Conditions Requiring Service--Unplug this DIRECTV PLUS System from the wall outlet and refer servicing to qualified personnel under the following conditions: · · When the power supply cord or plug is damaged. If liquid has been spilled on, or objects have fallen into, the DIRECTV PLUS System or it has been exposed to water. If the DIRECTV PLUS System does not operate normally by following the operating instructions. Adjust only those controls that are covered by the operating instructions. Other adjustments may result in damage and will often require extensive work by a qualified technician to restore the DIRECTV PLUS System to its normal operation. If the DIRECTV PLUS System has been dropped or the cabinet has been damaged. When the DIRECTV PLUS System exhibits a distinct change in performance. · · · Replacement Parts--When replacement parts are required, have the technician verify that the replacements being used have the same safety characteristics as the original parts. Use of replacement parts specified by the DIRECTV PLUS System manufacturer can prevent fire, electric shock, or other hazards. Safety Check--Upon completion of any service or repairs to this DIRECTV PLUS System, ask the service technician to perform safety checks recommended by the manufacturer to determine that the DIRECTV PLUS System is in safe operating condition. FEDERAL COMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC) REGULATORY INFORMATION Federal Communications Commission (FCC)--The DIRECTV PLUS System complies with both Part 15 and Part 68 of the FCC rules. Part 15 compliance-- This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class B digital device, pursuant to Part 15 of the FCC rules. These limits are designed to provide reasonable protection against harmful interference in a residential installation. This equipment generates, uses and can radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the instructions, may cause harmful interference to radio communications. However, there is no guarantee that interference will not occur in a particular installation. If this equipment does cause harmful interference to radio or television reception, which can be determined by removing and applying power to the equipment, the user is encouraged to try to correct the interference by one or more of the following measures: · Reorient or relocate the receiving satellite dish antenna. · Increase the separation between the equipment and the digital satellite receiver. · Connect the equipment into an outlet on a circuit different from that to which the digital satellite receiver is connected. · Consult the dealer or an experienced radio/TV technician for help. The user may find the following booklet, prepared by the Federal Communications Commission, helpful: "How to Identify and Resolve Radio and TV Interference Problems." This booklet is available from the U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC. To meet FCC requirements, only peripherals (computer input/output devices, terminals, printers, etc.) certified to comply with the Class B limits may be attached to this device. Operation with non-certified peripherals is likely to result in interference to radio and TV reception. To meet FCC requirements, shielded cables are required to connect the device to a personal computer, peripheral, or other Class B certified device. Part 68 compliance-- 1. The FCC has established Part 68 of the FCC Rules, which permit this device to be directly connected to the telephone network. Standardized jacks are used for these connections. This equipment should not be used on coin lines or party lines. If this device is malfunctioning, it may also be causing harm to the telephone network; this device should be disconnected until the source of the problem can be determined and until repair has been made. If this is not done, the telephone company may temporarily disconnect service. 3. The telephone company may make changes in its technical operations and procedures; if such changes affect the compatibility or use of this device, the telephone company is required to give adequate notice of the changes. You will be advised of your right to file a complaint with the FCC. If the telephone company requests information on what equipment is connected to their lines, inform them of: · the telephone number this unit is connected to. · the ringer equivalence number (REN). The number can be found on a label located on the bottom of the equipment. · the Universal Service Order Code (USOC) jack required. This equipment requires a USOC RJ11 jack. · the FCC registration number. The number can be found on a label located on the bottom of this equipment. 4. 2. TABLE OF CONTENTS A FIRST LOOK AT THE DIRECTV PLUS DIGITAL SATELLITE RECEIVER ............................................ 1-1 What You Should Do First.................................1-1 How Does All This Work?.................................1-1 DIRECTV PLUS SYSTEM COMPONENTS............1-2 The Satellite Antenna..........................................1-2 The Digital Satellite Receiver ...........................1-2 The Remote Control............................................1-4 GROUNDING THE METAL POLE MOUNT ..............4-14 GROUNDING THE BASE PLATE..............................4-15 INSTALLING AND ROUTING THE LNB COAXIAL CABLE.......................................................................4-16 CONNECTING THE COAXIAL CABLE TO THE LNB...................................................................4-17 Installation Procedure..................................... 4-17 ATTACHING THE LNB TO THE LNB SUPPORT ARM .........................................................4-17 ROUTING THE LNB CABLE TO THE SATELLITE RECEIVER.................................................................4-17 CONNECTING THE SATELLITE DISH ANTENNA ..4-18 POSITIONING THE SATELLITE DISH ANTENNA...4-18 The INSTALLATION Screen........................... 4-19 Pointing the Satellite Dish Antenna Using the "Box" Method................................................... 4-19 AUTHORIZING YOUR SERVICE ..............................4-21 SETTING UP YOUR DIRECTV PLUS SYSTEM ................................................. 2-1 INSTALLING REMOTE CONTROL BATTERIES.........2-1 CHOOSING THE BEST CONNECTION FOR YOUR ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEM.......................................2-1 Hook Up the Audio/S-video Signals.................2-2 Hook Up the Audio/Video Signals....................2-3 Hook Up the RF Signals.....................................2-3 Hook Up to a Stereo System..............................2-4 Finishing Up.........................................................2-4 CONNECTING THE VCR CONTROL CABLE ...........2-5 Finding the VCR's Remote Control Sensor....2-5 NOW YOU CAN TURN IT ON...................................2-5 WATCHING PROGRAMS ON DIRECTV PLUS .................................... 5-1 BASIC CHANNEL CHANGING...................................5-1 The Channel Banner...........................................5-1 The Information Banner.....................................5-1 The OneLineTM Guide.........................................5-2 TurboTuneTM........................................................5-2 AlphaTuneTM ........................................................5-2 ALTERNATE SERVICES.............................................5-3 Alt. Audio..............................................................5-3 CONTROLLING THE DIGITAL SATELLITE RECEIVER..................... 3-1 FRONT PANEL VS. REMOTE CONTROL KEYS........3-1 BASIC NAVIGATION..................................................3-1 THE ON-SCREEN GUIDES ................ 6-1 Choosing the Guide Style...................................6-1 Descriptions.........................................................6-2 General On-Screen Guide Features.................6-2 Using PreSelect ...................................................6-3 PreSelecting Programs for Taping ..................6-3 PreSelecting Programs for Viewing.................6-3 Canceling PreSelecting Programs ...................6-3 THE PROGRAM GUIDE (SM. CELL) ................6-4 THE PROGRAM GUIDE (LG. CELL).................6-5 THE TITLE GUIDE..................................................6-6 THE LOGO GUIDE..................................................6-6 THE WATCHWORDTM GUIDE..............................6-7 FILTERING THE GUIDES............................................6-7 Theme Filters........................................................6-8 Channel List .........................................................6-8 Guide Times..........................................................6-9 Class Filters .........................................................6-9 THE INFORMATION SCREEN ..............................6-9 Done.................................................................... 6-10 View .................................................................... 6-10 PreSelect............................................................ 6-10 PreSelect To View ............................................ 6-10 INSTALLING THE SATELLITE ANTENNA.............................................. 4-1 DETERMINE WHERE TO POINT YOUR SATELLITE DISH ANTENNA.........................................................4-2 The INSTALLATION screen ..............................4-2 ALIGNMENT RESULT Pop-up Panel.............4-3 CHOOSING THE ANTENNA INSTALLATION SITE ...4-4 SELECTING A MOUNTING OPTION..........................4-5 INSTALLING THE SATELLITE DISH ANTENNA ONTO A WOODEN SURFACE ...............................................4-6 INSTALLING THE SATELLITE DISH ANTENNA ONTO A BRICK SURFACE ....................................................4-9 INSTALLING THE SATELLITE DISH ANTENNA ONTO A CINDER BLOCK SURFACE ..................................4-10 INSTALLING THE SATELLITE DISH ANTENNA ONTO A METAL POLE ........................................................4-12 ATTACHING THE REFLECTOR ONTO THE LNB SUPPORT ARM .........................................................4-13 Assembling the Satellite Dish Antenna......... 4-13 ATTACHING THE SATELLITE DISH ANTENNA ASSEMBLY TO THE MAST OR POLE ......................4-14 Cancel PreSelect .............................................. 6-11 Buy $ ................................................................... 6-11 Buy Options....................................................... 6-11 Cancel Purchase............................................... 6-11 Show Times........................................................ 6-12 DIGITAL SATELLITE RECEIVER'S MENU SYSTEM .................................... 7-1 Menu Overview....................................................7-1 MAIN MENU ..............................................................7-2 Setup ......................................................................7-2 Scheduler ..............................................................7-2 Check Mail ...........................................................7-2 Purchases..............................................................7-2 Help........................................................................7-2 Lock/Unlock .........................................................7-2 SETUP MENU.............................................................7-3 Preferences ...........................................................7-3 Limits .....................................................................7-3 Chan. Lists............................................................7-3 TurboTuneTM........................................................7-3 Installation ...........................................................7-3 VCR Setup.............................................................7-3 WatchWord ...........................................................7-3 Current settings overview..................................7-4 SCHEDULER...............................................................7-4 Editing an event ...................................................7-4 CHECK MAIL .............................................................7-5 Message.................................................................7-5 Page .......................................................................7-5 Erase......................................................................7-5 PURCHASES................................................................7-6 History/Upcoming...............................................7-6 Purchase History.................................................7-6 Upcoming Purchases..........................................7-6 LOCK/UNLOCK..........................................................7-6 Locking Procedure..............................................7-7 Unlocking Procedure..........................................7-7 Temporarily Overriding the Lock .....................7-7 PREFERENCES............................................................7-8 Advanced ..............................................................7-8 MultiColor............................................................7-8 Chan. Tags............................................................7-8 Chan. Sort.............................................................7-8 Scheme...................................................................7-8 Language ............ Error! Bookmark not defined. Filters ....................................................................7-8 ADVANCED PREFERENCES.......................................7-9 Receiver ID ...........................................................7-9 Phone Prefix....... Error! Bookmark not defined. Screen Ratio .........................................................7-9 Channel Lock .......................................................7-9 Input Key...............................................................7-9 Demo Mode........................................................ 7-10 Factory Defaults............................................... 7-10 LIMITS.......................................................................7-10 TV Timer............................................................. 7-10 Max Rating ........................................................ 7-11 Max Spending ................................................... 7-11 CHANNEL LISTS.......................................................7-11 Rename ............................................................... 7-12 Auto Set .............................................................. 7-12 Clear................................................................... 7-12 Set........................................................................ 7-12 Tag Boxes........................................................... 7-12 TURBOTUNETM........................................................7-13 Set Channel ....................................................... 7-13 INSTALLATION ........................................................7-13 System Test......................................................... 7-13 New Card ........................................................... 7-13 Satellite .............................................................. 7-13 Transponder #................................................... 7-14 Receiver ID ........................................................ 7-14 Dish Type ........................................................... 7-14 Position .............................................................. 7-14 SYSTEM TEST ..........................................................7-15 Receiver Test ..................................................... 7-15 Cable Test.......................................................... 7-15 VCR SETUP .............................................................7-15 Brand.................................................................. 7-15 Code.................................................................... 7-15 Test (Record/Stop)............................................ 7-15 WATCHWORD.........................................................7-16 WatchWord # ..................................................... 7-16 PROGRAMMING YOUR REMOTE CONTROL ............................................. 8-1 PROGRAMMING THE REMOTE CONTROL ...............8-1 Programming Mode............................................8-1 Code Scan .............................................................8-1 Code Entry............................................................8-1 USING THE REMOTE CONTROL ...............................8-3 Switching the Remote Control to Operate Additional Digital Satellite Receiver ...............8-4 Identifying Codes that Have Been Stored .......8-4 Controlling Other Components Using the AUX Button ....................................................................8-4 A FIRST LOOK AT THE DIRECTV PLUS DIGITAL SATELLITE RECEIVER 1 Congratulations! You've selected one of the most advanced digital video and audio components available today. You now have the capability to receive hundreds of channels of video programming and CD-quality audio. What You Should Do First Your DIRECTV PLUS System is both a sophisticated technical product and an easy-to-operate source of entertainment. You should complete the following steps to achieve the greatest performance from your system: · · · · · · Read this manual to familiarize yourself with the system. Install the digital satellite receiver. Install your satellite dish antenna and cable. Align the satellite dish antenna. Arrange for programming from DIRECTV. Enjoy endless hours of TV entertainment. How Does All This Work? Many film studios, news organizations and other broadcasters (1) provide their video, audio, and data services to the DIRECTV uplink center (2). DIRECTV then digitally transmits the signals 22,300 miles into space to a grouping of high-powered satellites (3) built by Hughes Electronics. These satellites are located in geostationary orbit. This means that after installation of the DIRECTV PLUS System, which includes aiming the satellite dish antenna at the satellites, no adjustment will be necessary to change channels because everything comes from the same locations in the sky. The satellite dish antenna never has to track the satellite, so there's no waiting for the picture to come in. From the satellites the digital signals are beamed back to earth where they are received by your satellite dish antenna (4). The signals then go into the digital satellite receiver (5) where they undergo extensive processing to determine if you are authorized to access them. The signals are then reconverted into high-quality video and audio that you can enjoy on your television. The telephone connection (6) is used by the digital satellite receiver to report back to The DIRECTV network DIRECTV (7) any purchase activity. PAGE 1-1 DIRECTV PLUS SYSTEM FROM HUGHES NETWORK SYSTEMS - OWNER'S MANUAL DIRECTV PLUS System Components There are three main components of your DIRECTV PLUS System. They are the satellite dish antenna, the digital satellite receiver, and the remote control. Take a few minutes to read about each one. The Satellite Antenna The satellite antenna is the component that receives the digital signals. It must be mounted to a solid outdoor surface that allows a clear view of the southern sky. The large dish-shaped part is known as the reflector. Your reflector may be fairly round (18") or oval shaped (18" high by 24" wide). At the end of a tubular arm that is attached to the satellite antenna, there is a low noise block (LNB) assembly. Satellite antennas come in a variety of LNB configurations. Your assembly may provide for receiving signals from multiple satellites and/or distributing the signal to one or more satellite receivers. The mounting bracket and base plate make adjustments easy during installation. Once the satellite dish antenna has been properly positioned to point toward the satellites, you should never need to adjust it again. Refer to the instructions in Chapter 4, "Installing the Satellite Antenna" or other satellite antenna installation instructions to determine the type of antenna you have. The satellite dish antenna The Digital Satellite Receiver This digital satellite receiver is one of the most compact available today. The basic features for setup, installation, and viewing programming can be accessed from the front panel keys. The front of the digital satellite receiver Your access card is located behind the door on the right side of the digital satellite receiver. This special card contains information about your level of service and holds pay per view purchase activity. This card should not be removed except to protect the digital satellite receiver from unauthorized use or to replace the card when DIRECTV supplies a new one. The power key ( ) is used to turn the digital satellite receiver on and off. The power light (located next to the power key) will illuminate when the unit is on. Any off-air signal, such as cable TV or local programming, connected to the IN FROM ANT jack is passed through to the OUT TO TV jack when the digital satellite receiver power is off. The two directional keys, up ( ) and down ( ) are used to navigate the highlight around the menus. They also provide access to the OneLineTM Guide when menus are not displayed. The select key ( ) is used to choose a highlighted menu item. Also, pressing when no other instruction is being shown over video, a description of the current program and an additional press will display any available synopsis of the program. Some keys can be pressed in combination to achieve other functions. These include: combined with to restart the system (known as a "soft boot") The DIRECTV PLUS System Access Card PAGE 1-2 A FIRST LOOK AT THE DIRECTV PLUS DIGITAL SATELLITE RECEIVER combined with HIRD-E1 to access the INSTALLATION screen HIRD-E2 The rear of the digital satellite receiver. The rear of the digital satellite receiver has numerous jacks for connection to your audio/video entertainment system. You will also find the power cord permanently connected to the back. Note: Model HIRD-E1 does not provide the upper row of audio and video jacks, the VCR CONTROL or the RF REMOTE. The SATELLITE IN F-type jack is for connecting the cable from your satellite dish antenna to the digital satellite receiver. Be sure that you use RG-6 cable only. The IN FROM ANT F-type jack is an input where you can connect the cable from an RF terrestrial source such as an off-air antenna or cable TV service. This is not where you should connect the cable from the satellite dish! The OUT TO TV F-type jack is an RF output which you may connect to your TV or VCR (depending on your entertainment system). Note that the CH3/CH4 switch on the upper left enables you to select the channel for your TV on which the DIRECTV PLUS System programming appears. The phono-type AUDIO output jacks, labeled and color coded (L is white, R is red) to indicate left and right, can be used for connection to your TV, VCR, or audio system. The phono-type composite VIDEO output jack is color-coded yellow. You may use this jack for connection to your TV or VCR. The multiple-pin S-VIDEO jack is for high-quality output of DIRECTV PLUS System video. Use this jack to achieve the clearest picture for your TV or VCR. Only newer high-end TVs, SVHS VCRs and Hi8 VCRs support S-video connections. The standard RJ-11 modular PHONE JACK is for connecting the digital satellite receiver to your phone line. This phone connection is necessary to access certain program offerings from DIRECTV. Any calls generated by the digital satellite receiver are toll free. The telephone line connection will not normally interfere with your telephone operation. The digital satellite receiver will, however, call a toll-free number briefly to report any purchased pay per view programs. The VCR CONTROL mini-jack, found only on model HIRD-E2 receivers, is for connecting the VCR control cable included with the system. With this cable, the digital satellite receiver can interface with most popular brands of VCRs to record selected programs automatically. The RF REMOTE jack is for future accessories. PAGE 1-3 DIRECTV PLUS SYSTEM FROM HUGHES NETWORK SYSTEMS - OWNER'S MANUAL The Remote Control The HRMC-1 and HRMC-5 remote controls can control your DIRECTV PLUS System and most TV brands, as well as VCRs. The HRMC-5 can additionally control many other auxiliary devices such as cable boxes, amplifiers, and laser disc players. The remote control uses an invisible infrared light to send signals to your components when you press the keys. You must aim the remote control toward the component for it to receive the command. The mode keys across the top of the remote control enable you to specify the device you intend to control. This is important since many devices share the same keys, such as the key and the numeric keys. You must press the appropriate device key before pressing a command key to make sure the remote control sends the right signal to the right device. The only keys that deviate from the rule are the blue keys, as they are always associated with the digital satellite receiver. Four directional keys will cause the on-screen highlight to move in the direction you want. The keys will be referred to as , , , and . The select key ( ) is one of the most important keys. Pressing the key will tell the digital satellite receiver that you wish to choose the highlighted item. The arch of keys below the power and mode keys control frequently used functions. These include special action ( ), information ( ), guide ( ), exit ( ), and favorite ( ) keys. The key is unique because it does nothing by itself. Pressing it displays the action icon in the upper left corner of your screen for a few seconds. During that time, other keys may be pressed to access special functions indicated in yellow above the keys. Each will be described later in this manual. The following chart describes the Key Combination Feature MENU LIST SERVICES MOVIES SPORTS NEWS ALL key functions for easy reference: Function Displays the MAIN MENU from any screen Displays the CHANNEL LISTS screen Displays the Alternate Services menu Filters the on-screen guide to movies only Filters the on-screen guide to sports only Filters the on-screen guide to news only Resets the on-screen guide filters The HRMC-1 and HRMC-5 remote controls The remaining keys are digital satellite receiver-specific keys and common device keys including numbers, channel up and down, etc. The functions of these keys change depending on the device currently selected. Please refer to "Controlling the Digital Satellite Receiver" for more remote control capabilities and "Programming Your Remote Control" for setting your remote control to handle other audio/video components. Descriptions and details of each individual key will be given in the appropriate sections throughout this manual. PAGE 1-4 SETTING UP YOUR DIRECTV PLUS SYSTEM 2 It is recommended that you have your DIRECTV PLUS System professionally installed. This is due to safety issues, electrical codes, and assurance of a quality installation. If you should choose to perform the installation yourself, please pay special attention to the precautions in the front of this manual and refer to the chapter "Installing and Pointing Your Satellite Dish Antenna." You may also want to obtain the Do-It-Yourself Installation Kit, sold separately. This chapter provides step-by-step instructions for setting up your DIRECTV PLUS System and connecting it to your television or entertainment system. The carton includes the digital satellite receiver itself, an access card (already installed in the digital satellite receiver behind the door), a remote control (batteries included), cables, and documentation. Contact your dealer if anything is missing or damaged. Please save all packing materials until the installation of your system is complete in case anything needs to be returned. You now need to decide where you want to place the digital satellite receiver. Choose a location near your TV where the power cord or cables will not be inadvertently disconnected. The location should also be well ventilated. Do not set electronic components or other objects (including this manual) on top of the digital satellite receiver or otherwise block its cooling vents. Installing Remote Control Batteries Before the remote control can be used, the supplied batteries need to be installed. First, unsnap the battery cover from the back of the remote control. Install each fresh battery as shown, making sure that the + and - on each battery line up with the marks in the battery compartment. Next, snap the cover back onto the remote control. Refer to "Programming Your Remote Control" for setting the codes to control the devices in your entertainment system. Battery installation Choosing the Best PAGE 2-1 DIRECTV PLUS SYSTEM FROM HUGHES NETWORK SYSTEMS - OWNER'S MANUAL Connection for Your Entertainment System There are a number of ways to connect the digital satellite receiver, depending on the other audio/video equipment you wish to use. The simplest hookups are described in the following sections. Possible connections Note that the HIRD-E1 does not include the 2nd set of audio and video jacks, the VCR control jack, or the RF remote jack. Before connecting the digital satellite receiver to your entertainment system, you should connect the phone line. This can be done by plugging one end of the provided telephone cable into the PHONE LINE jack on the back of the digital satellite receiver and the other end into a telephone wall jack. If you do not have a telephone jack within reach, you may The Phone line and jack have a new one installed or reorient the digital satellite receiver to be within reach of a telephone wall jack. You may need to purchase additional connectors and/or cables to suit specific needs from your dealer or electronic hardware stores. Choose which hookup method to use based on: · · · The capabilities of your TV and VCR. Your desire to pass local programming through the digital satellite receiver. Any other devices you want to include in the system (stereo, second VCR, etc.). Before attempting to connect anything, position yourself so you are looking at the back of your components. Note the various input and output receptacles, their shapes, and how they are labeled. Then read through the rest of this hookup section before going ahead with actual hookup. Do not turn on the power yet. For your safety, make sure the digital satellite receiver, TV, VCR, and any other devices to be connected are unplugged from the wall outlet while hooking them up. Hook Up the Audio/S-video Signals Only the newest, high-end TVs and VCRs have S-video inputs. VCRs that support S-video include Hi8 and SVHS types. Look on the back of your TV and VCR for this special jack. It will probably be labeled S-VIDEO IN. If you are unsure, you can see the type of connector that you are looking for on the back of the digital satellite receiver. If neither the TV The S-video cable and jack nor VCR has this jack, proceed to the "Hook Up the Audio/Video Signals" section. This hookup will give you the sharpest picture of any of the hookups. Also, this hookup will allow you to view DIRECTV® PLUS System programming and local terrestrial broadcast simultaneously on TVs with "picture in picture" (PIP) feature. When using this hookup, you cannot use the digital satellite receiver as a switch to choose between DIRECTV PLUS System programming and local terrestrial broadcasts. Instead, you will use the input selection that your TV and/or VCR offers to select the source. PAGE 2-2 SETTING UP THE DIRECTV PLUS SYSTEM If your VCR has S-video input... use an S-video cable to connect the digital satellite receiver's S-VIDEO output to the S-video input on your VCR. Also connect one pair of the digital satellite receiver's audio outputs (Left and Right) to the audio inputs on your VCR. If your TV has S-video input... connect an S-video cable from the S-VIDEO output (either from the digital satellite receiver if available or the VCR) to the S-video input on the TV. Also connect the left and right audio outputs from the same device that the S-video is coming from and connect them to the TV. If you have a stereo system... you may be able to achieve big speaker sound. See the "Hook Up to a Stereo System" section for the necessary connections. If your hookup is complete... move on to the "Finishing Up" section. Hook Up the Audio/Video Signals Most high-end TVs and VCRs have phono-type audio and video inputs. Look at the back of your TV and VCR for three jacks--possibly color coded yellow, white and red. They will be labeled something like IN (L and R), AUDIO IN, and VIDEO IN. If you are unsure, look at these connectors on the back of the digital satellite receiver. If The phono-type video cable and jack you have no jacks like these on your TV or VCR, skip this section and proceed to the "Hook Up the RF Signals" section. This video hookup will give you a clearer picture than an RF hookup. Also, this hookup will allow you to view DIRECTV® PLUS System programming and local broadcast simultaneously on TVs that offer a "picture in picture" (PIP) feature. When using this hookup, you cannot use the digital satellite receiver as a switch to choose between DIRECTV® PLUS System programming and local broadcasts. Instead, you will use the input selection that your TV and/or VCR offer to select the source. If your VCR has a video input... use an audio/video cable to connect the digital satellite receiver's VIDEO output to the video input on your VCR. Also connect the pair of the digital satellite receiver's audio outputs (Left and Right) to the audio inputs on your VCR. If your TV has a video input... connect an audio/video cable from the VIDEO output (from either the digital satellite receiver, if available, or the VCR) to the video input on the TV. Also, connect the left and right audio outputs from the same device that the video is coming from and connect them to the TV. If you have a stereo system... you may be able to achieve big speaker sound. See the "Hook Up to a Stereo System" section for the necessary connections. If your hookup is complete... move on to the "Finishing Up" section. Hook Up the RF Signals Look at the back of your TV and VCR for RF inputs. These may be labeled 75-OHM, 300-OHM, CABLE, FROM ANTENNA, VHF or UHF. These could appear either as a pair of screws or an F-type connector as on the back of the digital satellite receiver. The RF cable and jack If your TV or VCR does not have threaded F-type connectors you will need to obtain adapters which convert the round F-type RG-6 or RG-59 cable to the connectors on your PAGE 2-3 DIRECTV PLUS SYSTEM FROM HUGHES NETWORK SYSTEMS - OWNER'S MANUAL TV and/or VCR. These are sold separately and should be available from your dealer or an electronics hardware store. To connect your VCR... use a coaxial cable to connect the OUT TO TV from the digital satellite receiver to the RF input section on your VCR. This is the first place where an adapter may be needed if your VCR doesn't have the Ftype connector. To connect your TV... connect a coaxial cable from the RF output (from either the digital satellite receiver's OUT TO TV, if available, or the VCR) to the RF input on the TV. This is the other place where an adapter may be needed if your TV doesn't have the F-type connector. Set the channel 3/4 selector switch on the back of the digital satellite receiver to the channel that is not broadcast or has the weakest signal in your area. This will be the channel that you need to set your TV and/or VCR to for viewing or recording DIRECTV® PLUS System programming. You can also use the digital satellite receiver as a switch to select between DIRECTV® PLUS System programming and local broadcasts. This can be accomplished by pressing the key on the remote control while the remote is in SAT mode. Also, you must connect your local signal, either from an antenna or cable service, to the IN FROM ANT on the back of the digital satellite receiver. If your antenna wire is not a coaxial type you will need an adapter as described earlier. If you have a stereo system... you may be able to achieve big speaker sound. See the "Hook Up to a Stereo System" section for the necessary connections. If your hookup is complete... move on to the "Finishing Up" section. Hook Up to a Stereo System To achieve high-quality sound from the digital satellite receiver through a stereo system, simply connect the AUDIO outputs (Left and Right) to an available input on your audio system. First, look for an input labeled AUX. If you aren't using a compact disc player or laser disc player, you can use one of those inputs, if available. The only input that you should not use is one that is specified for a turntable/phonograph. Finishing Up The phono-type audio cable and jack You can mix and match the different hookups described above to suit your entertainment system's available connections. For example, you could connect the VCR using audio/video, while the TV is connected with the RF signal. Always try to achieve the highest quality and greatest flexibility available. Once all connections have been completed, plug in the TV, VCR and digital satellite receiver to the wall outlet, appropriate extension cord, or surge protector. See Important Safety Instructions described in the front of this manual. Note: If you have connected a VCR into your entertainment system in a way that routes the cables from the digital satellite receiver to your VCR before the signal reaches the TV, you may experience a distorted picture if you attempt to record a copy-protected program. These programs are identified by a "Can't Tape" symbol in the banner area of the screen. If this occurs, simply stop the recording process and your picture will automatically correct itself. PAGE 2-4 SETTING UP THE DIRECTV PLUS SYSTEM Connecting the VCR Control Cable With the proper connections you can have the model HIRD-E2 digital satellite receiver control your VCR for unattended recording. First, plug the VCR Control cable into the back of the digital satellite receiver. Then proceed to the next section to determine where the other end of the cable should be attached. The VCR Control cable and jack Finding the VCR's Remote Control Sensor So that the digital satellite receiver can control your VCR, the emitter end of the VCR control cable must be attached where the VCR's remote control sensor is located. This is labeled on some VCRs. You may also find a diagram in your VCR manual indicating the sensor position. It is commonly identifiable by a small dark plastic window. For reference, see the sensor on the digital satellite receiver located in the center. Look for indications of the remote control sensor If the sensor is not labeled or documented, you will need to scan the front of your VCR with your VCR remote control. Use the following procedure to accomplish this: · Hold the VCR remote control about ½-inch from the front left side of your VCR. · Slowly move the remote control to the right repeatedly pressing the remote control's power key on and off. Scanning for the remote control sensor · Once your VCR responds to your pressing the remote control power, note the position. This should be the location of your VCR IR sensor. Once the sensor position has been determined, temporarily attach the emitter to the area with a piece of tape until the system can be tested. Refer to the "VCR Setup" section in the chapter "The Digital Satellite Receiver's Menu System" to program and test the VCR Control feature. Upon verifying that the VCR control is functioning properly you can remove the tape and permanently attach the emitter using the peel-and-stick backing. This attachment should not interfere with normal VCR operation. Now You Can Turn It On Once you have connected everything, you can begin powering up the components. Turn the TV on and set it to the DIRECTV PLUS System channel (3 or 4) or input (video or S-video). Do the same for the VCR, if applicable. Now turn the digital satellite receiver on. You will see the start-up screen for several seconds, followed by a black screen with the message at the bottom: "Searching for satellite signal. To access related utilities, press If so, this is good! If not, try pressing the doesn't work, check all of the connections. ." key while the remote control is in SAT mode. If that You're well on your way to enjoying your DIRECTV PLUS System. PAGE 2-5 DIRECTV PLUS SYSTEM FROM HUGHES NETWORK SYSTEMS - OWNER'S MANUAL PAGE 2-6 CONTROLLING THE DIGITAL SATELLITE RECEIVER 3 Now it's time for you to take control. Take a few minutes to read through this chapter to begin to understand how to operate your system. Let's begin with a couple of simple rules. First, there is nothing that you can do using the front panel keys or the remote control keys which could harm the digital satellite receiver in any way. Once you understand the capabilities and options available in your receiver, you will be able to undo any changes or settings that you make. The next important rule is to have fun. The features of the digital satellite receiver are intended to make watching TV more enjoyable. It is not necessary to know everything your system can do right away. Learn the capabilities a little at a time. The more you use the digital satellite receiver, the more the techniques necessary to control it will become second nature. Front Panel vs. Remote Control Keys The front panel provides basic controls needed to access and use the primary features of the digital satellite receiver. It is not intended to be a substitute for the remote control. Rather, it will provide access to the basic setup features and simple channel changing. If you begin to access menus and screens from the remote control, do not assume that you can access or navigate those same screens with the front panel keys. The remote control has additional keys to provide shortcuts or access to extended features of the digital satellite receiver. Most of the remote control keys can also be used to control other components in your entertainment system. For this reason, you must remember to press the key, putting the remote control in digital satellite receiver mode, when you want to control the digital satellite receiver. Basic Navigation Two distinct keys on the digital satellite receiver front panel represent the and direction keys. On the remote control, the direction keys are represented by the keys surrounding the key. These keys are primarily used to move the highlight (also known as a cursor) around the screen. The key should be pressed to indicate that a highlighted item is the one that you wish to choose. Another key you will be using frequently is the key, located only on the remote control. This key is used when you want to display the current on-screen guide. Once you are in the guide, pressing the key while a program title is highlighted will display the Guide pop-up menu. Another key appearing only on the remote control is the key. This key is used to retrieve descriptive information about a currently airing event and to provide access to scheduling information (and purchasing information for pay per view) about highlighted programs in the on-screen guide. Unless there is some message indicating otherwise, pressing the key on the front panel will perfom a similar function. Another key that appears on both the remote control and the front panel is the key. Make sure the remote control is in SAT mode for the key to apply to the digital satellite receiver. When PAGE 3-1 DIRECTV PLUS SYSTEM FROM HUGHES NETWORK SYSTEMS - OWNER'S MANUAL you power the digital satellite receiver off, it has not actually stopped using electricity. Rather, it goes into a standby mode which enables it to continue monitoring data sent from DIRECTV, call in status reports to DIRECTV, monitor for programs you have scheduled, receive messages, and perform other background activities. The only apparent changes occurring in the standby mode are that the video goes black, the IN FROM ANTENNA connector signals are passed through to the OUT TO TV connector, and the power light is off. There are three keys on your remote control that most people use frequently. They are the , and keys. , After you have established favorite channel lists, as described in the chapter "The Digital Satellite Receiver's Menu System," you will want to cycle through them quickly and easily. Do so by pressing the key. Each press will advance to the next list of channels. After stepping through the favorite lists it will cycle back to "All Channels." At any time, you can exit the on-screen guide by selecting Video in the Guide pop-up menu. An even faster way is to press the key. The key is only useful if the digital satellite receiver is connected to your entertainment system through the OUT TO TV connector, rather than VIDEO or S-VIDEO. If you are using OUT TO TV, pressing the key will switch the output between DIRECTV PLUS System programming and local broadcasts similar to the way the key works. Knowing these few keys should enable to navigate through almost every digital satellite receiver feature and menu. PAGE 3-2 INSTALLING THE SATELLITE ANTENNA 4 There's a cluster of satellites way out there in space, and just as a telescope is pointed at a star, you need to point your satellite dish antenna at the satellites. In this chapter we will explain the basic process for determining where to mount and how to point your satellite dish antenna. It is recommended that you have your DIRECTV PLUS System professionally installed. This is due to safety issues, electrical codes, and assurance of a quality installation. Read the contents of this chapter, as well as the important safety information in the front of this manual. These instructions are intended for an installer experienced in performing the various tasks described here. Depending on how you intend to install the antenna, you may be required to: · · · · · Climb a ladder and work on your roof. Use a power drill to drill holes in your house. Determine if there are water pipes, electrical wiring, or gas lines hidden in the walls near where you will be drilling. Route coaxial cable through the foundation wall, under floors, and through interior walls. Ground the antenna and coaxial cable as recommended in the National Electrical Code (by the National Fire Protection Association, Batterymarch Park, Quincy, MA 02269). If you are unsure about your ability to perform these tasks or comply with installation requirements, contact your DIRECTV PLUS System dealer for information regarding professional installation. Successfully installing and obtaining the satellite signals can be a time consuming and tedious task. For that reason, it is highly recommended that you contact a professional installer to get you up and running. The warranty covering your DIRECTV PLUS System assumes professional installation and may not apply in self installation situations since improper installation could damage the various components or cause undesired performance. If you decide to install the satellite dish antenna yourself, we recommend you purchase the Do-ItYourself Installation Kit. It contains many items you will need to complete most installations. You will need some of the following tools, depending on your installation: · · Electric drill Drill bits (1/8-inch, 3/16-inch, 1/2-inch masonry) Carpenter's level Pencil or chalk Tape measure · · · · · Wrenches (3/8-inch, 5/16-inch, 7/16-inch) Hammer Hole digging tools Wheelbarrow or concrete mixing box Hacksaw · · · · Sledge hammer Flat blade screwdriver Phillips screwdriver Cinometer or protractor · · · PAGE 4-1 DIRECTV PLUS SYSTEM FROM HUGHES NETWORK SYSTEMS - OWNER'S MANUAL For the traditional 18" satellite dish, confirm that you have all of the components listed below. · · · · Steel reflector (1) Mast (1) Base plate (1) LNB support arm (1) · · · · LNB (1) ¼-inch nuts (5) Retainer screw (2) Cable clip (1) · · Flat head screws (4) ¼-20 x ½-inch grounding bolt (1) For the larger, oval, multi-LNB satellite dish, refer to the assembly documentation included with the satellite dish. If you are missing any parts contact the Customer Care Center at 1-800-274-8995. Your satellite dish antenna will need to be pointed at a satellite cluster located 22,300 miles in orbit above the equator. To aim the satellite dish antenna at the satellites you need to know the azimuth and elevation angles. The digital satellite receiver will assist you in determining these angles. If you see the message: "Searching for satellite signal. To access related utilities, press ." press the key. Otherwise, press keys in the following order to navigate to the INSTALLATION screen: · · · · · or or to display the MAIN MENU to move the highlight over the Setup Menu button to display the SETUP MENU to move the highlight over the Installation button to display the INSTALLATION screen Determine Where to Point Your Satellite Dish Antenna The INSTALLATION screen When you press you will see a screen that assists you with the satellite dish antenna pointing and signal strength utilities. Move the highlight to the Dish Type button and press . You will need to specify the style of dish you have so that the pointing information will be accurate. Press the or keys on the remote control or receiver front panel until your preferred selection is highlighted. SINGLE ­ Refers to the traditional 18" satellite dish. This dish will be configured with an LNB with either one or two outputs. DUAL ­ Refers to the larger, oval, multi-LNB satellite dish. This dish will be configured with two LNBs in the positions marked "SAT A" (101°) and "SAT B" (119°). Each LNB will have one or two outputs. The INSTALLATION screen TRIPLE - Refers to the larger, oval, multi-LNB satellite dish. This dish will be configured with three LNBs in the positions marked "SAT A" (101°), "SAT B" (119°) and "SAT C" (110°). Each LNB will have one of two outputs. PAGE 4-2 INSTALLING AND POINTING YOUR SATELLITE DISH ANTENNA Note: When "Satellite 1" is used in reference this is equivalent to "SAT A." Likewise, "Satellite 2" equates to "SAT B" and "Satellite 3" equates to "SAT C." Choosing the correct dish type is necessary to obtain correct pointing results. After highlighting the appropriate dish type, press . Next, move the highlight to the Position button and press . You will need to determine your location by either ZIP code or by your latitudinal and longitudinal position. Press the or keys on the remote control or receiver front panel until your preferred selection is highlighted, then press . You will now see a pop-up panel with space to enter your information. Enter your location. If you are using the remote control, press the key, followed by the five appropriate digits. From the remote control or receiver front panel you can also use the or keys to increase or decrease the highlighted digit value, and the key to advance to the next digit. Use the key on the remote control to back up to correct any mistakes. When you are finished, highlight the OK button and press to continue. ALIGNMENT RESULT Pop-up Panel The ALIGNMENT RESULT will display the proper elevation and azimuth for pointing the satellite dish antenna calculated from the information you entered. Take a moment to write down the pointing results. AZIMUTH: _________ ELEVATION: _________ ROTATION (Tilt): _________ (Dual and Triple dishes only) The Alignment Result pop-up panel. The values displayed are fairly accurate; however some fine-tuning may be necessary. Use these values when choosing a mounting location for your satellite dish antenna and remember that you will need an unobstructed view in that direction. PAGE 4-3 DIRECTV PLUS SYSTEM FROM HUGHES NETWORK SYSTEMS - OWNER'S MANUAL Choosing the Antenna Installation Site WARNING For your own safety, follow these important safety rules: · · · Perform as many functions as possible on the ground. Do not install the antenna on a rainy or windy day. If you start to drop the antenna or mast assembly, get away from it and let it fall. Perform the following steps to select the best site to install the antenna: 1) 2) Go to the location where you plan to install the antenna. Using a compass like the one shown, hold the compass level so that the needle can rotate freely. When the needle stops rotating, it will be pointing north. Doing so carefully so as not to disturb the needle, rotate the body of the compass so that the 0° or N marks printed on the compass align with the painted end of the needle. The compass is now aligned with magnetic north. Note: Large metal structures, such as air conditioning units and steel beams near the compass may greatly reduce its accuracy. If you are near such structures, move several feet away and repeat the measurement to verify the readings. 3) Draw an imaginary line from the center of the compass to the azimuth value you recorded above. This is the direction for pointing the satellite dish antenna toward the satellites. Use a rock or some other object to mark the location where you are standing; then pick a landmark in the distance that aligns with the magnetic azimuth bearing, or mark the azimuth in some way. Verify that there are no obstructions (such as buildings or trees) blocking the view to the satellite, as shown in the diagram. Remember that trees that are small or do not have leaves now could grow to ultimately block the clear line of sight. 4) 5) Make sure that the site you have chosen is not where people or equipment could hit the satellite dish antenna. PAGE 4-4 INSTALLING AND POINTING YOUR SATELLITE DISH ANTENNA DANGER Do not select a location to install the satellite dish antenna near power lines. You can be killed if the satellite dish antenna comes into contact with electric power lines. · · Do not contact overhead power lines. Check the distance to any nearby power lines before starting installation. Stay at least 20 feet away from all power lines. If any part of the satellite dish antenna or mast assembly comes into contact with a power line, call your local power company. Do not try to remove it yourself. They will remove it safely. · Selecting a Mounting Option Now that you have chosen where you want to install your satellite dish antenna, you need to select the appropriate mounting. Use the options described below to determine the section of this chapter that you should advance to. All installations require grounding per NEC 810-15 and NEC 820-33. Installing the satellite dish antenna on the side of your house. Do not install on vinyl or aluminum siding. See the section titled "Installing the Satellite Dish Antenna Onto a Wooden Surface." Installing the satellite dish antenna on the rail or floor of a deck. See the section titled "Installing the Satellite Dish Antenna Onto a Wooden Surface." Installing the satellite dish antenna on a brick surface. See the section titled "Installing the Satellite Dish Antenna Onto a Brick Surface." Note: If you will be installing the satellite dish antenna base plate and mast using a mounting configuration other than the ones recommended here, do so as follows: 1. 2. Installing the satellite dish antenna on a cinder block or masonry surface. See the section titled "Installing the Satellite Dish Antenna Onto a Cinder Block Surface." Installing the satellite dish antenna on a metal pole. See the section titled "Installing the Satellite Dish Antenna Onto a Metal Pole." Install the base plate and mast. Verify that the mast is level. 3. Go to the section titled "Attaching the Reflector Onto the LNB Support Arm." PAGE 4-5 DIRECTV PLUS SYSTEM FROM HUGHES NETWORK SYSTEMS - OWNER'S MANUAL Installing the Satellite Dish Antenna onto a Wooden Surface The satellite dish antenna can be installed onto several types of wooden surfaces. This section describes installing the satellite dish antenna base plate and mast onto the side of your house or on a deck rail or floor. Do not mount the satellite dish antenna onto composite (also called particleboard or fiberboard) surfaces unless there is a wall stud or rafter located where you will be installing the mounting hardware. Composite materials are not strong enough to support the satellite dish antenna during strong winds and other violent weather conditions. Have the following tools and materials handy during this process. Items marked with an asterisk (*) indicate that they are included in the Do-It-Yourself Installation Kit (sold separately). · · · · Drill bits 3/16-inch) (1/8-inch, · · · Silicone sealant * Washers * (5/16-inch, Qty. 4) Wrenches 7/16-inch) (3/8-inch, · Lag screws * (3-inch x ¼-inch, Qty.2; 2-inch x 5/16-inch, Qty.4) Carpenter's level Pencil or chalk Electric drill Installation Procedure 1) Select a secure site to install the satellite dish antenna base plate: Wall Mounting Deck Mounting · On the side of your house. Locate a wall stud onto which you can install the antenna base plate as shown. Wall studs can most easily be found by looking for the line of nails that shows where siding is attached to the house or by using a stud finder. On a deck railing or floor. You can install the base plate onto a deck rail or on the deck floor as shown. · 2) Place the base plate so the center holes align with the centerline of the rafter or stud (see diagram). While holding the base plate in place, use a pencil to mark the location of the top center hole onto the mounting surface. This mark indicates where you will be drilling later. Using a carpenter's level, plumb the antenna mast in at least two different locations on the side of the mast, as shown. These two measurements should be at right angles to each other. If 3) PAGE 4-6 INSTALLING AND POINTING YOUR SATELLITE DISH ANTENNA the mast is plumbed (aligned vertically with the bubble level), go to step 5. Otherwise, loosen the pivot bolt and adjustment nuts (see diagram). 4) Rotate the mast until it is plumb with the level, then tighten the pivot bolt and alignment nuts. If you are still unable to align the mast with the level, try using wooden shims. If they do not correct the problem you will need to find another site to install the satellite dish antenna. Set the mast aside and drill a 1/8-inch x 3-inch pilot hole where you made the pencil mark. Install the mast assembly onto the mounting surface using a 3-inch x ¼-inch lag screw. Tighten the screw enough to secure the base plate, but leave it loose enough to enable you to adjust the base plate. Verify that the mast is still plumb and adjust if necessary. Mark the locations of the outside holes and remaining center hole on the mounting surface. Remove the base plate from the mounting surface. 5) 6) 7) 8) 9) 10) Drill a 1/8-inch x 3-inch pilot hole for the lower center hole. 11) Drill four 1/8-inch x 2-inch pilot holes for the outside holes. 12) While holding the base plate in place, apply silicone sealant onto the six pilot holes and around the bottom edge of the base where it contacts the mounting surface (see diagram). Doing so will help prevent water from seeping into your house. 13) Install four 2-inch x 5/16-inch lag screws and four 5/16inch washers into the outside holes on the base plate. 14) Install two 3-inch x ¼-inch lag screws into the center holes on the base plate. 15) Tighten all screws. 16) Apply additional silicone sealant to cover the tops of the lag screws. With the base plate and mast installed, proceed to the section titled "Attaching the Reflector Onto the LNB Support Arm" later in this chapter. PAGE 4-7 DIRECTV PLUS SYSTEM FROM HUGHES NETWORK SYSTEMS - OWNER'S MANUAL Installing the Satellite Dish Antenna onto a Brick Surface The satellite dish antenna can be installed onto brick surfaces. This section describes installing the satellite dish antenna base plate and mast onto the side of your brick house or on a chimney. Have the following tools and materials handy during this process. Items marked with a asterisk (*) indicate that they are included in the Do-It-Yourself Installation Kit (sold separately). · · · · Masonry drill bit (3/8inch) Machine screws * (¼inch x 3-inch , Qty. 4) Carpenter's level Pencil or chalk · · · Silicone sealant * Expansion anchors* (Qty. 4) Washers * (5/16-inch, Qty. 4) · Wrenches (3/8-inch, 7/16-inch, or adjustable) Hammer · Installation Procedure 1) 2) Select a flat and secure site to install the satellite dish antenna base plate. Place the base plate so the outside holes are positioned over the brick surfaces. Do not drill into the mortar between the bricks. Front view Side View 3) Using a carpenter's level, plumb the satellite dish antenna mast in at least two different locations on the side of the mast, as shown. These two measurements should be at right angles to each other. If the mast is plumb (aligned vertically with the bubble level), go to step 5. Otherwise, loosen the pivot bolt and adjustment nuts (see diagram). Rotate the mast until it is plumb with the level, then tighten the pivot bolt and alignment nuts. If you are still unable to align the mast with the level, try using wooden shims. If they do not correct the problem you will need to find another site to install the satellite dish antenna. Use a pencil to mark the location of the top left outside hole of the base plate (see diagram) onto the brick surface. Set the mast aside and drill a 3/8-inch x 3-inch hole where you made the pencil mark. Clean out the hole and insert an expansion anchor. The anchor should fit snugly, so you may have to use a hammer to gently tap the anchor until it is flush with the brick surface. 4) 5) 6) 7) PAGE 4-8 INSTALLING AND POINTING YOUR SATELLITE DISH ANTENNA 8) Install the mast assembly onto the mounting surface using a 3-inch x ¼-20 machine screw (see diagram). Tighten the screw enough to secure the base plate, but leave it loose enough to enable you to adjust the base plate. 9) Verify that the mast is still plumb and adjust if necessary. 10) Mark the locations of the other three outside holes on the mounting surface. 11) Remove the base plate from the brick surface. 12) Drill three ½-inch x 3-inch holes for the outside holes. 13) Install the base plate using the 3-inch x ¼-20 machine screws and four 5/16-inch washers. 14) Tighten the four machine screws. With the base plate and mast installed, proceed to the section titled "Attaching the Reflector Onto the LNB Support Arm" later in this chapter. Installing the Satellite Dish Antenna onto a Cinder Block Surface The satellite dish antenna can be installed onto cinder block surfaces. This section describes installing the satellite dish antenna base plate and mast onto a cinder block or masonry surface. Have the following tools and materials handy during this process. Items marked with a asterisk (*) indicate that they are included in the Do-It-Yourself Installation Kit (sold separately). · · · · · Masonry drill bit (½inch) Machine screws * (¼inch x 3-inch , Qty. 4) Carpenter's level Pencil or chalk Electric drill · · · · Silicone sealant * Togglers* (Qty. 4) Washers * (5/16-inch, Qty. 4) Wrenches (3/8-inch, 7/16-inch, or adjustable) · Hammer Installation Procedure 1) 2) 3) Select a flat and secure site to install the satellite dish antenna base plate. Tap the cinder blocks with a hammer to locate the hollow center cores. Place the base plate so the outside holes are positioned over the hollow center cores of the cinder block. Do not drill into the mortar between the cinder blocks. PAGE 4-9 DIRECTV PLUS SYSTEM FROM HUGHES NETWORK SYSTEMS - OWNER'S MANUAL 4) Using a carpenter's level, plumb the satellite dish antenna mast in at least two different locations on the side of the mast, as shown. These two measurements should be at right angles to each other. If the mast is plumb (aligned vertically with the bubble level), go to step 5. Otherwise, loosen the pivot bolt and adjustment nuts (see diagram). Rotate the mast until it is plumb with the level, then tighten the pivot bolt and alignment nuts. If you are still unable to align the mast with the level, try using wooden shims. If they do not correct the problem you will need to find another install site. Use a pencil to mark the location of the top left outside hole of the base plate (see diagram) onto the cinder block surface. Set the mast assembly aside and drill a ½-inch hole where you made the pencil mark. Clean out the hole. Install the toggler as follows: Holding the ring end of a toggler, fold the metal channel flat against the toggler and insert it into the drilled hole until you feel the channel open inside the hollow core of the cinder block. Rotate the toggler and gently pull the ring to ensure the metal channel is flat against the inside of the cinder block. While pulling the toggler toward you to apply tension, slide the push-cap until it is snug against the cinder block. Break the ring along the center perforation and bend the two straps away from each other until they break at the push-cap. 5) 6) 7) 8) 9) Toggler installation steps. 10) Install the mast assembly onto the cinder block surface using a 3-inch x ¼-20 machine screw (see diagram). Tighten the screw enough to secure the base plate, but leave it loose enough to enable you to adjust the base plate. 11) Verify that the mast is still plumb and adjust if necessary. 12) Mark the locations of the other three outside holes on the cinder block surface. 13) Remove the base plate from the cinder block. 14) Drill three ½-inch holes for the outside holes. 15) Repeat steps 8 through 12 to install togglers in the three drilled holes. 16) Install the base mast assembly using the 3-inch x ¼-20 machine screws and four 5/16-inch washers. 17) Tighten the four machine screws. With the base plate and mast installed, proceed to the section titled "Attaching the Reflector onto the LNB Support Arm" later in this chapter. PAGE 4-10 INSTALLING AND POINTING YOUR SATELLITE DISH ANTENNA Installing the Satellite Dish Antenna onto a Metal Pole The satellite dish antenna can be installed onto a metal pole. You will not be using the base plate or mast included with the satellite dish antenna for this procedure. Store these items in case you decide to move the satellite dish antenna to a new location in the future. Have the following tools and materials handy during this process. · · · · Hole digging tools Wheelbarrow or concrete mixing box Carpenter's level Pencil or chalk · · · Guy wires and wooden stakes Hacksaw 40-pound bag of quick setting concrete (Qty 4) · Metal pole (1¼-inch inside diameter schedule 40 galvanized water pipe - 6-foot length minimum) Installation Procedure 1) Use a hacksaw to cut the bottom edge of the pole at a 45° angle, as shown. This prevents the pole from rotating in the concrete over time. 2) Dig a hole at least 8-inches in diameter and 36-inches deep. If you live in an area where the frost line goes deeper than 30-inches, dig the hole at least 6-inches deeper than the frost line. 3) Place the pole into the hole and place rocks (for example) around the pole to stabilize it in a vertical position. 4) Fill the hole with prepared quick drying cement. Shape the top of the concrete with a slope to improve drainage. 5) Using a carpenter's level, plumb the pole in at least two different locations on the side of the pole, as shown. These two measurements should be at right angles to each other. When the pole is plumb, secure it with the rocks, or attach guy wires to hold it upright. 6) Let the cement dry for 24 hours before you remove the guy wires or attempt to attach the satellite dish antenna to the pole. With the pole installed, proceed to the section titled "Attaching the Reflector Onto the LNB Support Arm" later in this chapter. Attaching the Reflector onto the LNB Support Arm If your satellite dish is not the traditional 18" style (meaning it is the larger, oval, multi-LNB style), refer to the assembly documentation included with the satellite dish. After assembly, resume this manual starting on page 4-17 at the section titled "Positioning the Satellite Dish Antenna". PAGE 4-11 DIRECTV PLUS SYSTEM FROM HUGHES NETWORK SYSTEMS - OWNER'S MANUAL Assembling the Satellite Dish Antenna 1) 2) 3) Insert a flat-head screw into one of the holes in the face of the reflector, as shown. Install the mounting bracket of the LNB support arm onto the four flat-head screws, as shown. Loosely install a ¼-inch nut onto the portion of each flat-head screw that sticks through the back of the reflector and mounting bracket. Tighten the four ¼-inch nuts. The heads of the flathead screws must be flush on the inside surface of the reflector to be securely fastened to the LNB support arm. Install the cable clip as shown. 4) 5) Attaching the Satellite Dish Antenna Assembly to the Mast or Pole Now that you have assembled the satellite dish antenna you are ready to mount it on your previously installed mast or pole. While the diagrams may show a satellite dish antenna model that differs from the one you have, the same procedures apply. 1) 2) If necessary, slightly loosen the azimuth nuts on the LNB support arm. Slide the satellite dish antenna assembly onto the mast or pole until the top of the mast stops at the bolt at the top of the mounting assembly. Tighten the azimuth nuts enough so that the satellite dish antenna assembly can rotate easily on the mast or pole. The next step is to ground the satellite dish antenna. 3) 4) CAUTION Local electric codes and the National Electric Code (NEC) require the satellite dish antenna to be grounded. Grounding the satellite dish antenna helps protect against damage caused by static voltage buildup or nearby lightning strikes. PAGE 4-12 INSTALLING AND POINTING YOUR SATELLITE DISH ANTENNA Refer to the following: · · Go to the section titled "Grounding the Metal Pole Mount" if your satellite dish antenna is installed on a metal pole. Go to the section titled "Grounding the Base Plate" if you satellite dish antenna is installed on the supplied satellite dish antenna mast. Grounding the Metal Pole Mount Have the following tools and materials handy during this process. Items marked with a asterisk (*) indicate that they are included in the Do-It-Yourself Installation Kit (sold separately). · · 1½-inch ground clamp 5/8-inch x 8-foot ground rod and ground rod clamp · · · · #8 aluminum grounding wire * Cable ties * Adjustable wrench Sledge hammer Installation Procedure 1) Approximately 1 foot from the pole's cement pier foundation, use a sledge hammer to drive the ground rod 8 feet into the ground. 2) Install the grounding clamp approximately 1 foot from the base of the pole. 3) Install the #8 aluminum grounding wire onto the ground clamp in accordance with National Electric Code 810-15.. 4) Route the ground wire from the clamp to the ground rod. Use the ground rod clamp to attach the grounding wire to the ground rod. 5) Secure the ground wire to the pole using the cable ties. You can now proceed to the section titled "Installing and Routing the LNB Coaxial Cable." Grounding the Base Plate Have the following tools and materials handy during this process. Items marked with a asterisk (*) indicate that they are included in the Do-It-Yourself Installation Kit (sold separately). · · 5/8-inch x 8-foot ground rod ground rod clamp · · Adjustable wrench #8 aluminum grounding wire * · · Sledge hammer Cable ties * Installation Procedure 1) Use a sledgehammer to drive the ground rod 8 feet into the ground near where you installed the satellite dish antenna base plate. PAGE 4-13 DIRECTV PLUS SYSTEM FROM HUGHES NETWORK SYSTEMS - OWNER'S MANUAL 2) 3) 4) Insert the ¼-20 x ½-inch bolt through the grounding hole on the base plate. Install the ¼-inch nut onto the bolt. Wrap the #8 aluminum grounding wire around the bolt between the star washer and the base plate in accordance with National Electric Code section 810-15, then tighten the nut. Route the ground wire from the base plate to the ground rod. Use the ground rod clamp to attach the ground wire to the ground rod. If necessary, secure the ground wire to the wall using insulated U-shaped tacks. 5) 6) Remove Star washer Installing and Routing the LNB Coaxial Cable This section describes routing and installing the coaxial cable between the LNB and the grounding block. Depending on the routing of the coaxial cable, you may choose to use a cable that can be buried. When normal coaxial cable is buried, its outer cover decays in the soil, and the cable's life is shortened. Cables that are suitable for burial use a special outer cover that resists breakdown. Some of these cables also have a special coating on their ground shields. This coating resists corrosion if water gets into the cable. Anytime the coaxial cable is buried, use cable that is suitable for burial. Doing so will help prevent problems in the future. An important goal of your cable installation is to protect the cable from physical damage and moisture penetration. To protect the cable from physical damage, secure it to walls or another stable surface with cable clips. This prevents the cable from sagging and being damaged by people stepping on it or running over it with yard equipment. Prevent moisture penetration by using weatherproof connectors, or by sealing any connection that is exposed to the elements. Drip loops provide a connection with additional protection by preventing moisture from traveling down the cable and entering the connection. Have the following tools and materials available: · · Phillips screwdriver Hammer · #14 (or larger) insulated grounding wire · Flat-blade screwdriver PAGE 4-14 INSTALLING AND POINTING YOUR SATELLITE DISH ANTENNA Installation Procedure 1) Select the location where you will install the ground block. Choose a site that will be near the cable entry point into the building. Also, plan a short and straight path for the ground wire to the grounding rod. 2) Select a length of cable that can be routed easily from the LNB to the ground block. If your system is equipped with a dual-output LNB, select a second cable that's the same length. 3) Secure the grounding block to a stable mounting surface with two screws, then connect the cable(s) to the grounding block. 4) Secure the cable(s) with cable clips. Do not forget to form the drip loop and secure it in place with cable clips. For single LNBs or dual LNB installations using only one side, a single coaxial cable will be used. 5) Install the #14 insulated ground wire on the ground terminal of the ground block in accordance with National Electric Code section 820-33. 6) 7) Route the ground wire to the ground rod. Connect the ground wire to the ground rod. Remember to secure the wire to a wall or some surface to protect it. Connecting the Coaxial Cable to the LNB Installation Procedure 1) Make sure your satellite receiver is unplugged. Connecting the LNB cable to the LNB while the satellite receiver is plugged in could permanently damage your LNB. 2) If you installed the satellite dish antenna assembly onto a metal pole, go to step 3. Otherwise, route the coaxial cable(s) through the mast and LNB support arm, and then continue on to step 4. 3) Route the coaxial cable(s) along the outside of the pole and inside the LNB support arm. 4) Insert the cable into the cable clip. This ensures that there will be enough slack in the cable if you need to remove the LNB later. If you are routing two cables, use a cable tie to bind the cables together, then insert one of the cables into the cable clip. Note that your LNB style may vary slightly 5) Attach the coaxial cable(s) onto the LNB as shown. Attaching the LNB to the LNB Support Arm 1) Slide the cable connection end of the LNB into the D-shaped opening in the LNB support arm so that the LNB points toward the reflector. The end of the LNB may be rectangular or Dshaped, however either type will fit. PAGE 4-15 DIRECTV PLUS SYSTEM FROM HUGHES NETWORK SYSTEMS - OWNER'S MANUAL 2) 3) Insert the correct size retainer screw into the LNB mounting hole. Two sizes of this screw are provided to accommodate either LNB style. Use the appropriate screwdriver to tighten the screw. Routing the LNB Cable to the Satellite Receiver During this step of the installation, route the LNB cable from the ground block to the satellite receiver. In most installations, there is more than one way to get the LNB cable to the adapter from the grounding block. If the adapter is near an inside wall, use the crawl space, basement, or attic area. When routing the LNB cable to the digital satellite receiver, take the shortest possible path and always protect it from physical damage. 1) After verifying that there are no wires or pipes blocking the location where you near to feed the coaxial cable into the building, drill a ½-inch hole. If you are routing two coaxial cables, drill a second ½-inch hole near the first. Connect one end of the cable to the ground block. Repeat this step if you are routing two cables. Form a 3-inch to 5-inch drip loop in the cable(s) before inserting it in the access hole. Secure the drip loop(s) and cable(s) to the wall with cable clips. Inside the building, route the cable(s) to where the satellite receiver(s) are located. Depending on the installation site, this could be through a floor or wall, directly to the rear of the satellite receiver. If the cable goes straight through a wall, you can use a wall plate at the access point. Seal the access point into the building with silicone sealant. 2) 3) 4) 5) 6) The satellite dish antenna and cable are now completely installed. Connecting the Satellite Dish Antenna You must connect the satellite dish antenna cable to receive a signal. To protect your LNB from damage, you should unplug your digital satellite receiver from the power outlet prior to making this connection. Once the satellite dish antenna has been mounted and the satellite cable has been run from the satellite dish antenna to the digital satellite receiver, you are ready to monitor the signal strength while adjusting the satellite dish antenna pointing. Make sure that you are connecting the cable to the Connecting the satellite dish antenna cable SATELLITE IN jack - not the IN FROM ANT jack. Positioning the Satellite Dish Antenna Pointing accuracy is very important. You must be pointing the satellite dish antenna exactly at the satellites for you to receive a signal. Please follow these instructions carefully to achieve a successful installation. PAGE 4-16 INSTALLING AND POINTING YOUR SATELLITE DISH ANTENNA In the following procedure you will be referring to the meter on the INSTALLATION screen. If this screen is not currently displayed, press the key, shutting the system down, and then press the key to start the system up again. If you see a black screen with the message: "Searching for satellite signal. To access related utilities, press ." press the key. Otherwise, press keys in the following order to navigate to the INSTALLATION screen: · · · · · or or to display the MAIN MENU to move the highlight over the Setup Menu button to display the SETUP MENU to move the highlight over the Installation button to display the INSTALLATION screen You should see a meter displaying your signal strength. The INSTALLATION Screen The INSTALLATION screen shows the quality of the signal that you are receiving. Because you have not adjusted the direction of your satellite dish antenna, you probably have a signal strength of 0. To let you know that it is "looking," you should hear a short beep every few seconds. Even though a signal strength of 50 will give you the same highquality picture and sound as a reading of 90, you should maximize your signal as much as possible, because rain or snow can cause the signal strength to drop significantly. This signal reduction is known as "rain fade." As soon as the signal can penetrate the rain cloud or snow, your picture will return automatically. The INSTALLATION screen Pointing the Satellite Dish Antenna Using the "Box" Method Pattern of scanning the sky PAGE 4-17 DIRECTV PLUS SYSTEM FROM HUGHES NETWORK SYSTEMS - OWNER'S MANUAL The easiest way to find the satellite signal is by scanning the sky in the general direction that the satellite is located. While you could possibly achieve this by trial and error, you should be able to find the signal in just a few minutes using the "box" method. What you are effectively doing is scanning the sky in a pattern similar to the way a farmer plows a field. It will be easiest to fine-tune your satellite dish antenna with someone else's assistance, calling out the signal strength while you make the adjustments. In addition, you should turn up the volume of your TV so that you can hear the beeps while you make adjustments. When there is no signal, beeps will occur every few seconds so that you know it is searching. As the signal strength increases, the beeps will become much more rapid. Before you begin make these quick checks: · · Verify that there are no obstructions such as trees, buildings, etc., blocking the signal. Verify that you are using the proper cable type (RG-6) between the satellite dish antenna and the digital satellite receiver. Also, be sure that the connections are tight and the center wire in the cable extends about 1/8th -inch beyond the end of the connector. Verify that the azimuth and elevation values that you determined earlier are correct for your area. Get a 7/16-inch wrench (not included) to loosen and tighten the satellite dish antenna's bolts. Find the initial direction to point your satellite dish antenna using a compass. · · · The "box" method begins by subtracting 10 degrees from the azimuth and subtracting 4 degrees from the elevation values that you determined earlier. We'll begin by adjusting the elevation. First, loosen the nuts securing the two (one on each side) elevation bolts just enough so that you can easily tilt the reflector up and down. Next, line up the elevation indicator with the tick mark corresponding to the elevation calculated earlier (result minus 4 degrees). This indicator is the leading edge of the metal just to the left of the bolt. It is recessed inside the slot. Do not use the bolt or nut as a point of reference. Finish adjusting the elevation by lightly tightening the bolts when the indicator is aligned with the correct tick mark. Make sure that the satellite dish antenna doesn't slip out of position while you are tightening the bolts. Next, we'll adjust the azimuth. For this part of the procedure, a compass (such as the one included in the Do-It-Yourself Installation Kit) will make it possible to point in the proper direction. This is done by first loosening the azimuth bolts just enough in order to turn the satellite dish antenna smoothly with a little pressure. Stand behind or beneath the satellite dish antenna reflector and, while grasping the outer edges of the reflector, rotate the satellite dish antenna until it is pointing toward the azimuth value determined earlier (result minus 10 degrees). Be sure that as you do this you do not lean on the reflector, as that would affect the alignment. Don't tighten the bolts just yet! 1) 2) 3) Slowly turn the satellite dish antenna 20 degrees towards and past the actual determined azimuth. It should take about 20 seconds to make the sweep of the sky. If no signal was found in this pass, increase the elevation by 1 degree and slowly turn the satellite dish antenna back the other direction. If you do find a signal, go to step 4. If you have done this for 9 passes (now 4 degrees above the determined elevation), start back at the beginning point and try again. If you cannot achieve any signal after several tries, recheck that the LNB satellite cable is connected to the SATELLITE IN jack - not the IN FROM ANT jack. For additional support, call your dealer or the Customer Care Center at 1-800-274-8995. PAGE 4-18 INSTALLING AND POINTING YOUR SATELLITE DISH ANTENNA 4) To have reached this step it is assumed that there is some degree of signal. A numeric value for the strength ranges from 0 to 99. While your signal strength may vary, refer to the following map to determine the suggested signal strength goal for your area: Typical signal strength results. Your actual signal strength may vary. 5) Gently continue turning the satellite dish antenna reflector a small amount as you were turning it when you began receiving a signal. Continue to adjust the satellite dish antenna in this fashion until the signal strength meter reaches the highest possible reading. Tighten the azimuth bolts. Slowly tilt the satellite dish antenna up and down to try to improve the signal strength reading. When you are satisfied that you have achieved the strongest signal, tighten the elevation bolts. 6) You may choose to try different transponders. Each transponder transmits multiple programs at a time. The transponder displayed when entering the screen represents the one associated with the last viewed program (or "02" if no program has been viewed). By moving the highlight to the transponder area, you can enter a number from 01 to 32. Different transponders may show varying signal strengths. This is not indicative of any problem unless the variations are extreme (such as 40 and 90). In the event of signal reception problems, customer service representatives may ask for information such as signal strength on a different transponder. Do not change transponders trying to find the best signal since the transponder will automatically change to the one that corresponds with the satellite channels that you view. Authorizing Your Service To confirm that the satellite dish antenna is properly adjusted to receive signals, try to receive promotional channels from DIRECTV. If you can receive them, you can now arrange to receive your DIRECTV® PLUS System programming 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, at the following number: DIRECTV 1-800-DIRECTV (347-3288) You can enjoy over 200 available channels of digitally delivered sports, movies, news, and family entertainment. Check with DIRECTV regarding details available offerings and packages. PAGE 4-19 WATCHING PROGRAMS ON DIRECTV PLUS 5 This chapter will reveal many different ways to find the programs you want to watch. The first thing you should know is that channels in the DIRECTV PLUS System world are arranged differently. Local programming delivered via satellite (if available) is located in channel numbers below 100. Channels that are not traditionally local broadcasts start at channel 100 and could go as high as 9999. Remember; do not assume that the front panel keys are a substitute for the remote control keys. Basic Channel Changing There are many ways to "surf" through the available programming. You already know at least two ways to change channels. The first of these is by using the and keys. Each key press takes you to the next available channel in the direction that you selected. The second way is to enter the number of the desired channel. For example, to go to the Direct Ticket movie previews, simply press . If the channel does not change right away, press to instruct the satellite receiver that you are finished entering digits. You can enter the number for any channel you wish. The Channel Banner Every time you tune to a channel, a banner will be displayed at the top of the screen. You can also display the Channel Banner any time by pressing the key. The key on the front panel of the digital satellite receiver will also provide this functionality, if there are no other messages indicating otherwise. Pressing will remove the banner immediately. This banner contains information about the program, including the program start and end times, title, rating, channel call sign or logo, channel number, and program or channel-related symbols where applicable. Symbols , as shown below, could include alternate audio, data, new mail, can't tape, closed caption, and/or the lock status. See the section called "Alternate Services" later in this chapter for information on accessing alternate audio or data services. ALT. AUDIO Closed caption available NEW MAIL Unread mail Limits enforced Limits override DOLBY DIGITAL Dolby Digital Taping not audio allowed available CAN'T TAPE The CHANNEL BANNER Icon DATA SVCS. Meaning Other audio Pay Per View Data available available The Information Banner Pressing the key (or the front panel key) a second time while the Channel Banner is displayed will replace the information with any available description of the current program. This is called the Information Banner. Either of these banners will go away after a few seconds, or you can press the key or key to clear it on demand. PAGE 5-1 DIRECTV PLUS SYSTEM FROM HUGHES NETWORK SYSTEMS - OWNER'S MANUAL The OneLineTM Guide If you'd like to know what's on another channel without switching from your current channel, use the OneLine Guide. Simply press or and begin browsing. You can see the channel call sign and number, titles, and program start and end times. When you see something you like; then press to tune to the channel. You may also directly enter a channel number to advance the OneLine Guide to that channel. The other filter keys, including for movies, for sports, and for news, as well as the key will also control the content of the OneLine Guide. Pressing the key will cancel the OneLine Guide. The OneLine Guide TurboTuneTM The TurboTune feature provides access to nine of your preferred channels on top of the current video. The TurboTune panel is displayed by pressing the remote control key while watching video as long as there are no messages prompting you to press for some other purpose. TurboTune is not accessible from the front panel key. The TurboTune panel displays nine channel tags. These channels can be specified via the TurboTune button on the SETUP MENU. The header area of the panel displays the title of the program currently airing on the highlighted channel tag. You can choose one of the nine by moving the highlight over the desired channel and pressing .A shortcut to moving the highlight is to press the remote control numbers that corresponds with the on-screen position of the desired channel. In the example on the right, press 7 for CNN. The TurboTune panel AlphaTuneTM AlphaTune enables you to tune to a channel by spelling a channel's call sign rather than by number. To enter the AlphaTune mode, you must first press the key located on the lower right on the keypad. The symbol appears on the screen. You can now enter the numbers and letters (located above each of the number keys) to spell the desired channel call sign. For example, to tune to ESPN, press . All special symbols (i.e., &, /, +, !, etc.) are located on the key. As soon as the receiver can determine which channel you are seeking, it will tune to it automatically. No additional keys need to be entered. If the channel call sign is fewer than four letters, you may need to press to indicate that you are finished. If more than one channel shares the same set of key (i.e., "CNN" and "COM", both using ), the next matching occurrence is used. If that was not the channel you wanted, just press to find the next occurrence of that key sequence. It is important that you enter the channel call sign exactly. With experience, you will become more familiar with the channel name abbreviations that are used. PAGE 5-2 WATCHING PROGRAMS ON DIRECTV PLUS Alternate Services The digital satellite receiver can support alternate audio services. To determine if the services are available for a particular program, look for their icons below the date and time in the Information Banner or on the on-screen guide. To access these services when available press the key on the remote control. The Alternate Services banner will appear at the bottom of the screen. Highlight and select the Alt. Audio to temporarily change the audio language. Alt. Audio Once you have selected the Alt. Audio button you can use the and keys to step through the audio tracks offered for the current program. To choose the highlighted language, press . On occasion an audio track may be offered that is not being broadcast. If this is the case for the selected track, the audio you hear will either The Alternate Services panel be unchanged or silent. Changing channels will restore the audio track to the one that is specified on the PREFERENCES screen. See the chapter "The Digital Satellite Receiver's Menu System" for information on setting the default audio. PAGE 5-3 THE ON-SCREEN GUIDES 6 key The most powerful feature of the digital satellite receiver is the on-screen guides. You may customize the on-screen guide you can see a page of channels or program listings to include only programs of interest to you. Other advanced features available from the on-screen guides, such as scheduling and program information, will help plan your viewing. Continue reading to learn the real power of the digital satellite receiver's on-screen guides. At any time you can press the key to display the current on-screen guide. The on-screen guides are not accessible from the front panel keys. However, the front panel will access the INFORMATION screen described later in this chapter if it is being pressed in response to a message such as "Press to order." This digital satellite receiver offers a variety of on-screen guides. Each guide has its own design to make finding programs of interest an easy task. These guides include the PROGRAM GUIDE (SM.CELL), PROGRAM GUIDE (LG. CELL), TITLE GUIDE, and LOGO GUIDE. The HIRD-E2 model digital satellite receiver also offers the WATCHWORDTM GUIDE. Each guide can be filtered into smaller channel groupings, as specified in your personalized favorite Channel Lists. You can also reduce the displayed listing by specifying a Theme of interest, and then narrow the offerings further by specifying a type within the Theme. Additional settings, such as Guide Times and Classes, may be specified to determine the guide content. A full description of the filtering options can be found later in this chapter. Choosing the Guide Style To display on-screen guides, press the key. Press the key again to display or remove the guide pop-up menu. The guide menu provides buttons to access the MAIN MENU, exit to Video, ways to narrow your search, and Guide Style. To choose a guide style, simply highlight the Guide Style button and press . A pop-up menu offering each of the guide styles will be displayed. Highlight your selection and press the key. The guide will be redrawn to display your selection. Familiarize yourself with the benefits of each guide style: PROGRAM GUIDE (SM. CELL) - This guide style displays several rows of channels with columns indicating the time period of the programming. Cells occupy the main portion of the screen with The Guide pop-up menu program titles in them. This layout makes it very easy to se what programming at what time is being offered. The "SM. CELL" portion of the guide style name refers to the fact that there is only one line of text associated with each program title. While this could cause the title to be cut short, it also allows for a large number of channels to be displayed simultaneously. PROGRAM GUIDE (LG. CELL) - This guide style, like the SM. CELL style, displays several rows of channels with columns indicating the time period of the programming. Cells occupy the main portion of the screen with program titles in them. This layout makes it very easy to see what PAGE 6-1 DIRECTV PLUS SYSTEM FROM HUGHES NETWORK SYSTEMS - OWNER'S MANUAL programming at what time is being offered. The "LG. CELL" portion of the guide style name refers to the fact that there is two lines of text associated with each program title. While this provides more space for the program titles and for channel tags, it also reduces the number of channels to be displayed simultaneously. TITLE GUIDE - The guide style is convenient when you are looking for a program that is coming on in the next few hours that you know the title of, but just don't know the channel it will be on. In this guide style, program titles are listed in alphabetical order with reference to times and channels displayed as supplementary information. LOGO GUIDE - This guide style offers the greatest number of channels displayed simultaneously. It is also the most colorful. For those viewers that choose their programming more by the channel, rather than by program title, this is the best option. Almost every channel is represented by the logo. WATCHWORD GUIDE - This is a special guide available in the HIRD-E2 model digital satellite receiver. It creates a list of program titles based on various keywords that you specify. First, you have to enter your keywords on the WATCHWORD SETUP screen Then, when you are not using your digital satellite receiver, turn it off. It is during the "off time" that the digital satellite receiver scours the thousands of program titles and their descriptions looking for matches to your keywords. To fully complete this process, several hours are needed. So, it is best if you let your system do this for you while you are asleep. When you return, selecting the WATCHWORD GUIDE style will provide you with a list of matching programs that it was able to find. As you can see, there are various guide styles to suit various tastes and needs. Descriptions One guide option is to automatically display descriptions for highlighted program titles. The descriptions usually provide information such as actors' names, a program synopsis, and additional rating information. Sometimes the description may be only a message describing what type of program is highlighted, such as "Current News." This option is chosen via the Descriptions button on the guide pop-up menu. Displaying the extra information reduces the number of channels or titles that can be displayed at one time. Remember that you can always access program descriptions by pressing the the Descriptions button is selected. key, whether or not General On-Screen Guide Features While there are different ways the guides can appear, there are some things they have in common. The guide name will always appear in the upper left corner. It may be something simple like "PROGRAM GUIDE." If you have filtered the guide, it could be more descriptive such as "COMEDY MOVIES GUIDE." (See "Filtering the Guides" section later in this chapter.) · Immediately below the guide title are indicators showing how the guide is further filtered. The label to the left of the bullet specifies the current class filter setting. To the right of the bullet you will see the current channel list. In the upper right corner of your screen the current day, date, and time are displayed. Just below the time you may see small icons indicating the status of the system or details about the currently highlighted program title. They are the same icons that appear in the Channel Banner. The primary body of the guide screen displays channels or program titles. You can press on a currently airing program to tune to it. Pressing will take you to the INFORMATION screen described later in this chapter in the section called "Getting Program Information." If a program title cannot entirely fit in the space provided, an ellipsis (...) indicates that a portion of the title is missing. · · · · PAGE 6-2 THE ON-SCREEN GUIDES Using PreSelect With the PreSelect feature you can select viewing choices in advance to avoid missing them. Use PreSelect to plan your evening viewing; your DIRECTV PLUS System will automatically change channels according to your selections and control your VCR for unattended recording. To PreSelect a program, find an upcoming program you wish to watch and press the key. PreSelecting Programs for Taping If you have the HIRD-E2 model digital satellite receiver, you can utilize this feature commonly known as StarSight One-Touch Record (OTR). Programs that have been scheduled to be taped will be identified with a videotape icon ( ) before the program title on the on-screen guide. If you do not want to have the PreSelected program recorded, press the key again to change the setting to be automatically tuned to for viewing. When using the Schedule To Tape feature the following steps must be completed for the digital satellite receiver to perform unattended recording: · · · · · Attach the VCR Control cable (see chapter "Setting Up Your DIRECTV PLUS System.") Use the VCR SETUP screen (see chapter "Your Digital Satellite Receiver's Menu System.") Set your VCR to match the output of the digital satellite receiver. This could be either RF (channel 3 or 4) or A/V (phono or S-video). Insert a recordable videotape of sufficient length in the VCR. Leave the VCR turned ON. PreSelecting Programs for Viewing Programs that are PreSelected for viewing will be identified on the on-screen guide with a check mark (ü) before the program title. An additional press of the key will return the status to not scheduled. Canceling PreSelected Programs To cancel a PreSelected a program, find the upcoming program you wish to cancel and press the key until the check mark (ü) or videotape icon ( ) is no longer shown. If the program is currently airing, you will need to delete the event from the SCHEDULER screen accessed from the MAIN MENU. PAGE 6-3 DIRECTV PLUS SYSTEM FROM HUGHES NETWORK SYSTEMS - OWNER'S MANUAL The PROGRAM GUIDE (SM. CELL) The PROGRAM GUIDE (SM. CELL) without descriptions The PROGRAM GUIDE (SM. CELL) with descriptions The PROGRAM GUIDE (SM. CELL) displays 1½-hours of programming. Up to 12 channels can be seen at one time. This number is reduced to 9 if the program description option is enabled. The largest area of the PROGRAM GUIDE (SM. CELL) made up of cells is known as the program grid. Some cells have arrows indicating that the program started at an earlier time or continues until a later time than displayed in the grid. Each grid cell approximates the duration of the associated program. A time line spanning the width of the guide indicates the show times of the programs being displayed. The list of blocks running down the left-hand side are the "channel tags." Depending on the Channel Sort (Name or Number) option specified in your system's PREFERENCES screen (described in "The Digital Satellite Receiver's Menu System") the tags may display the channel numbers or call signs. This will dictate whether the channels are listed by channel number or alphabetically by call sign. To navigate the guide, use the , , , and more program offerings onto the screen. Pressing Use and keys. You can continue to press the or keys to scroll on any title will direct you to the INFORMATION screen. to scroll through the guide entries a full page at a time. When the highlight is in the grid, use the and keys to move left and right. If you move the highlight onto the channel tags, they will temporarily change to the opposite of what they were before (either channel numbers or call signs). Move the highlight to the right to move the grid area to reveal later time periods. Sometimes, after scrolling a few hours ahead, there may be a brief delay while more information is received from the satellite. PAGE 6-4 THE ON-SCREEN GUIDES The PROGRAM GUIDE (LG. CELL) The PROGRAM GUIDE (LG. CELL) without descriptions The PROGRAM GUIDE (LG. CELL) with descriptions The PROGRAM GUIDE (LG. CELL) displays two hours of programming. Up to 8 channels can be seen at one time. This number is reduced to 6 if the program description option is enabled. The largest area of the PROGRAM GUIDE (LG. CELL) made up of cells is known as the program grid. Some cells have arrows indicating that the program started at an earlier time or continues until a later time than displayed in the grid. Each grid cell approximates the duration of the associated program. A time line spanning the width of the guide indicates the show times of the programs being displayed. The list of blocks running down the left-hand side are the "channel tags." Depending on the Channel Tag (Name/Number or Logos) option specified in the system's PREFERENCES screen (described in the chapter, "The Digital Satellite Receiver's Menu System") the tags may display the channel numbers and call signs or network logos. Also, the Channel Sort (Name or Number) option specified in the system's PREFERENCES screen will dictate whether the channels are listed by channel number, or alphabetically by call sign. To navigate the guide, use the , , , and more program offerings onto the screen. Pressing Use and keys. You can continue to press the or keys to scroll on any title will direct you to the INFORMATION screen. to scroll through the guide entries a full page at a time. When the highlight is in the grid, use the and keys to move left and right. If you move the highlight onto the channel tags, they will temporarily change to the opposite of what they were before (either channel numbers or call signs). Move the highlight to the right to move the grid area to reveal later time periods. Sometimes, after scrolling a few hours ahead, there may be a brief delay while more information is received from the satellite. PAGE 6-5 DIRECTV PLUS SYSTEM FROM HUGHES NETWORK SYSTEMS - OWNER'S MANUAL The TITLE GUIDE The TITLE GUIDE without descriptions The TITLE GUIDE with descriptions The TITLE GUIDE displays up to 12 program titles at any one time. This quantity is reduced to 9 if the program description option is enabled. The largest area of the TITLE GUIDE is the first column that displays the program titles in alphabetical order. If a program title cannot fit entirely, an ellipsis (...) indicates a portion of the title is missing. The second column indicates the start time of the program. If the program is going to be airing several times within the next few hours, the word "Multiple" will appear in this column. The third column indicates the program channel. If the program is going to be airing on several different channels, the word "Multiple" will appear in this column. Pressing on any title will direct you to the INFORMATION screen where you can select Show Times to determine which showings best suit you. To move around the guide, use the or keys. You can continue to press the more program offerings onto the screen. To speed up the process of reviewing the guide, you can use entries a full page at a time. or or keys to scroll to page through the guide The LOGO GUIDE The LOGO GUIDE without descriptions