View Full Version : ReplayTV using serial link w/newer DirecTV receivers
I use a ReplayTV with a late-model RCA DirecTV receiver and found out the hard way that the serial link doesn't work -- you have to use the IR Blaster. But more research turned up enough details about the problem that I was able to come up with a solution: a tiny adapter in the serial line with a microprocessor that translates the serial commands.
This gizmo fits within the shell of the 9-pin D serial connector. It doesn't need batteries or external power. My sat receiver changes channels quickly and flawlessly every time now, something I couldn't say about the IR Blaster.
Some folks asked me if they could get one, so I'm building two dozen more (four of those are spoken for so far). You can read all about it on my web site, http://www.patersontech.com/. If you want one, you can order it there for $35 plus shipping. I've just received all the parts and should start shipping them next week.
DosMan, sounds great!
Any chance there could be a built in channel translation stage, you know to convert analog channels that the replay tries to tune to digital channels (ie channel-subchannel)? I realize every user would need custom changes, but.... still very curious. =)
"Anything is possible." But:
1. Are there HD receivers with serial input that we know the command set?
2. Right now the "subchannel" is 0xFFFF. Do we know how to encode the subchannel?
If you know what command to send, the TV Translator could be programmed to send it. I have Samsung HD DSS which doesn't have a serial port, so I can't try it.
I've got 3 HD tuners, two with serial one without (damn proscan, I hear the sister DTC-100 had it, but I never saw it). The two sony recievers HD100 and HD300 use different command sets, the HD100 we never were able to figure out a subchannel addressing method for.
So the original commad for tuning to ESPN (206) would have been:
0xFA 0x46 0x00 0xCE
and a channel like HBO (501) would be
0xFA 0x46 0x01 0xF5 (going off memory not positive on endianness of the channel)
With the new command set what's the commands look like?
I thought 5.1 or 5-1 would look like
0xFA 0xA6 0x00 0x05 0x00 0x01
is this not correct? Sorry if this is wacked, it's late and I'm having a tough time remembering exactly what the commands and format is...
vivarey
03-10-04, 02:19 AM
Originally posted by DosMan
Some folks asked me if they could get one, so I'm building two dozen more (four of those are spoken for so far). You can read all about it on my web site, http://www.patersontech.com/. If you want one, you can order it there for $35 plus shipping. I've just received all the parts and should start shipping them next week.
Is this Tim Paterson, the original author of MS-DOS??
Jeff, that sounds reasonable, but I would want to know for sure -- like testing it with Kevin T's serial control utitlity.
To back up a step, we're talking about the over-the-air tuner in the HD DSS, right? When I step through the local channels, I get:
1. The satellite channel
2. The analog over-the-air channel
3. The first digital over-the-air channel
4. Any additional digital over-the-air channels.
You need to know how these map to subchannel. I have a Samsung HD DSS w/o serial port, so I have no way to tell.
Vivarey, yes DosMan is the DOS man.
Oh, and I have orders for 10 TV Translators so far, which is my entire first "production run" (but I have parts for 13 more). They're supposed to be assembled on Monday, then I have to program and test them, so if nothing goes wrong they should ship the middle of next week. Any orders beyond that 10 will be a week later.
DosMan, Yes, I'm talking about remapping the standard channel numbers either Directv locals, analog (OTA or cable) to the DTV channels (channel-subchannel)
My HDTV receivers with serial are all sony, actually all my serial boxes are sony. And I've got issues with dvtcon and the HD300. I've never been able to get the HD100 to tune subchannels with serial because we never discovered any command for doing that. (I've even had engineers inside sony helping me and still nothing useful.)
rickster
03-10-04, 02:37 PM
Originally posted by DosMan
When I step through the local channels, I get:
1. The satellite channel
2. The analog over-the-air channel
3. The first digital over-the-air channel
4. Any additional digital over-the-air channels. That is correct. However, if you are doing it via the "channel up" method, this outome is dependent on which of the channels have been "hidden" in setup.
Rick
But since the replay is the one that would be driving the tuning with absolute channel numbers the channel up/down wouldn't be an issue right?
206 tuned on the replay channel up gives you the next higher added channel (207 in my case) and 207 is the command sent, not a channel up command.
(did I get confused here or what?)
ncfoster
03-10-04, 08:18 PM
I can't wait. I know that I've ordered two of these, and I can't wait to be free of the IR Blaster. I assume that this would be the thread to watch to see when they are shipping, eh?
Nathan
rickster
03-10-04, 08:23 PM
Originally posted by Jeff D
But since the replay is the one that would be driving the tuning with absolute channel numbers the channel up/down wouldn't be an issue right? I think that's right. I'm a little out of my depth here - I was just responding to DosMan's question, which seemed to imply that the sequence of channels was important.
But since the RTV appears to do absolute channel tuning (correct me if I'm wrong, but I think this is true even when performing a "channel up" or "channel down" operation) that's really not relevant. The only relevant thing would be how to map and translate the channel RTV thinks it wants to the one we actually want.
I'm sure this is a much more difficult challenge than the old-to-new protocol converter because this mapping is unique to each reception area. It's really a shame that the receiver can't take care of this by being configured to go to (for instance) 7.1 when 7 is selected.
Rick
My point was not the order, simply that there are several subchannels and we need to know how they're mapped. The TV Translator currently sends 0xFFFF for subchannel. Maybe DTV x-1 is subchannel 1, etc., so maybe the analog OTA channel is subchannel 0, but what then of analog cable? Maybe subchannel 0xFFFF is "Default", and 0 is sat, 1 is analog OTA, 2 is analog cable, 3 is DTV x-1. Maybe subchannel mapping changes depending on what sources you've told the receiver about. Maybe, maybe.
I'm also concerned about the "issues" you have dtvcon. If you can't control your HD-300 with it, why would the TV Translator have better luck? Dtvcon seems like the ideal way to quickly answer the subchannel mapping question (although I've never used it myself).
You're making too big a deal of the differences due to locale. If I were to add something like this, it would be programmed by the user by sequences of channel change commands and stored in on-chip flash memory. (Channel change commands are the only available input to the TV Translator.)
ncfoster, your order should ship middle of next week if there are no problems. I will post here but probably also send individual email when they ship.
ncfoster
03-10-04, 10:53 PM
Sounds great. I am extremely grateful that you took this project up. I only hope that it all works as advertised. Also, does anyone know where to get the 9 pin to RJ-45 adapters that come with the Replays? My 5040 has one with it, but my Showstopper was open box, so I am left without some of the cords. I'm not even sure that Showstoppers had this adapter. Hopefully, it is not too hard to find and/or too expensive.
Nathan
rickster
03-10-04, 11:20 PM
Originally posted by DosMan
it would be programmed by the user by sequences of channel change commands and stored in on-chip flash memory
Way cool!
As Arthur C. Clarke said, "Any sufficiently advanced technology is indistinguishable from magic."
That's sure how it looks from here...
Rick
Nathan, if you mean the 9-pin D to handset phone (RJ-22) serial adapter, check out Kevin T's site http://www.pcmx.net/dtvcon/. He sells it for $16 but says out of stock until April. He also gives wiring diagrams to build it. If you can solder you can get the parts (a handset cord and DE-9F) from Radio Shack. I've been meaning to add this link on my site for people who need the adapter.
Rick, I do have some experience in software, after all :).
TimP
ncfoster
03-11-04, 02:28 AM
Sadly, I have never soldered in my life. I have a couple of soldering irons that I've inherited, but I am not sure whether I want to build a potentially flaky adapter to cut my teeth. I guess I may have to wait to use the second one... How sad. Anybody got one of these adapters that they aren't using that they wouldn't mind parting with?
Nathan
Tim, My point on the HD300 is this might all be useless for the HD300 because of the problem I've seen with dvtcon. I'm with you on that, no need if it won't work. I've been too busy to try again, but I will.
I'm heading out of town, but I'm really curious about the subchannel question you asked. I'd guess, only a guess.... that 0xFFFF is the subchannel that is sent for analog stations. 0x0000 might make sense too because there is not a .0 subchannel in DTV land (or not that I'm aware of). I'd also doubt they'd DTV is zero based addressing for subchannels that start at 1 for the users. Directv does this for transponders #s to keep 32 transponders # in 5bit space.
That would be great if the translation table were serial programmable! That's how I'd do it, and I'm no coding guru like you. ;)
EDIT: Ok, dtvcon doesn't work with my HD300. It's a engineering sample, so that may be an issue. AFAIK this is a retail box... If that's true either sony reengineered the protocol (wouldn't surprise me!) or the box is running at a different baud rate, I don't think this is true becuse the power on/off commands work, although only 2 byte commands.
vivarey
03-15-04, 09:03 PM
Would it be possible to modify your technique to get the serial link working with DISH Network and/or non-RCA receivers? If so, it would be a huge break through!
Amazingly Smooth
03-15-04, 10:09 PM
I think I heard that RTV might be working on a solutiong. But maybe I didn't.
i didn't hear that either. but i am sure it will happen.
these dongles would be useful though for other models that will prolly never see another upgrade
All orders for the TV Translator have shipped! They went via first class mail and can be expected to arrive Friday or Saturday.
Pantera
03-17-04, 08:13 PM
Originally posted by Amazingly Smooth
I think I heard that RTV might be working on a solutiong. But maybe I didn't.
Since I am a Beta Tester right now for the new release. I am forbidden to talk about it at this time:p
But it wouldnt matter, cause I have no way to test it now that I have it.
Clear enough Iceman?? LOL
Read between the lines ...... If you don't have $40.00 to waste, I'd probably wait a bit.
Suggestion: Jump on the Closed Captioning offer.
I hope this was vauge enough, to not get me in trouble.
Originally posted by Pantera
Since I am a Beta Tester right now for the new release. I am forbidden to talk about it at this time:p
But it wouldnt matter, cause I have no way to test it now that I have it.
Clear enough Iceman?? LOL
Read between the lines ...... If you don't have $40.00 to waste, I'd probably wait a bit.
Suggestion: Jump on the Closed Captioning offer.
I hope this was vauge enough, to not get me in trouble.
If you were in a beta group you'd have signed a NDA (or electronically agreed to an NDA) and having done that I'd rethink what you just said. Most of the time signing an NDA you aren't even able to disclose you signed an NDA because that would say you know something about something you aren't suppose to say you know anything about. It's a serious issue... Not that DNNA would care, but they might and if they do I'm sure they have more expensive lawyers than you. =(
ncfoster
03-20-04, 03:13 AM
I just want to publicly say that these things do work. I got two in the mail today, and they worked like a charm on both my Showstopper and my 5040. Woohoo! Free at last!
Nathan
Nathan, That's really cool. Care to post what box you are controlling? =)
ncfoster
03-20-04, 09:10 PM
I have two RCA DRG430 DirecTV receivers.
Nathan
KINetics
03-23-04, 03:13 PM
Works great.
(2) 5504's
with
(2) DRD430RGA's made by RCA
jleavens
03-23-04, 11:27 PM
Originally posted by Pantera
Since I am a Beta Tester right now for the new release. I am forbidden to talk about it at this time
Uhm, so don't.
I would say that if you run a 5000 or 5500 series box, there will probably be an update at *some* point for better box support. It's inevitable, I suppose, but if you don't want to wait these are a good option. But if you have a 3000/4000/4500 series box, I would snap up one or more of these adapters in a heartbeat.
BaysideBas
03-24-04, 10:11 AM
Isn't it amazing how people assume that if a connector matches physically with another that they should be mated and will therefore work?
Reminds me of a manufacturer's nightmare in the photoequipment department. Early electronic flash synch connectors, known as He (Heiland type) were an exact match for the US AC power connector. A flashmeter manufacturer invented a remote slave trigger device which had some electronic components potted in clear epoxy with the two contact blades sticking out one end. This was supposed to be plugged into the flash unit's receptacle. One supplier of photo equipment had a rash of complaints and returns of "defective" units which invariably would have portion of the epoxy blown away. The usual complaint was "I plugged it in, it flashed once, and never again." Well, as it turned out, the user invariably plugged it into an AC outlet (mains, for you brits), the unit blew up, thus the "flashed once". And, of course, never again.
Bayside, But when I was very young I learned... square peg, square hole... round peg, round hole. Seems like most of us are in this boat.
Don't forget the phone line into an ethernet jack...
jleavens
03-25-04, 12:04 AM
Originally posted by Jeff D
Don't forget the phone line into an ethernet jack...
oh, if I only had a dollar...
leesweet
03-25-04, 10:54 AM
Never mind the analog modem into the digital phone jack! :)
Brett Jason
03-26-04, 08:53 AM
anyone know if the TV translator will work with a Samsung SIR-TS360?
Norseman00
03-26-04, 11:38 PM
Thought I'd chime in here. Picked up one of DosMan's TV Translators and it works great with my RCA DRD450RG! One happy camper to have the joy of serial control over both my older RCA and the "new" one with my 5080's.
Thanks DosMan!
Originally posted by Brett Jason
anyone know if the TV translator will work with a Samsung SIR-TS360? As reported here (http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?postid=1838222#post1838222), the answer is probably no.
Does ReplayTV have problems controlling the SIR-TS-360? (TiVo does.) If so, since the SIR-TS-360 reportedly has an RF port, it would be worth trying the IR to RF port hookup described in the Hughes Director GAEB0 entry of the TiVo Cable/Satellite Box Compatibility & Codes List (http://www.web-i18n.net/~ccwf/TiVo/compatibility/post) to see if that unorthodox procedure works with the SIR-TS-360, too.
Pwrbilt
03-29-04, 12:25 PM
Would this upgrade help my connection between my 4080 and my old RCA first generation 100 box? The connection was so bad I have gone to the RF blaster which doesn't work much better either
Thanks for the help
Rob
pwrbilt@bigkahunasmusic.net
Originally posted by Pwrbilt
Would this upgrade help my connection between my 4080 and my old RCA first generation 100 box? The connection was so bad I have gone to the RF blaster which doesn't work much better either
Thanks for the help
Rob
pwrbilt@bigkahunasmusic.net
Your first gen RCA won't be helped by this. The 3rd gen and older use the old command set. It wasn't until 4th & 5th gen than the new command set came into play.
Did you ever try different cables?
That link from Charles to the compatibility list on the TiVo forum looks like a great source. Models that are serial compatible with APG should be compatble with the TV Translator. I notice, Jeff, that it says the Sony HD-300 is in that category.
I'm posting any compatibility comments I get on my site at http://www.patersontech.com/Translator/Customers.aspx, but surprisingly few customers are emailing feedback to me.
This is fantastic! I havn't had serial control for so long, I forgot what it's like!
One question, will I notice a difference in the speed of changing channels with serial control vs IR blaster? Using the IR blaster is painfully slow, but I'v gotten used to it.
It seems to me the serial was faster. Any thoughts?
blackmax2k1
03-31-04, 10:52 AM
Does the Hughes SD-HBH receiver have a data port? I know the HAH-SA does. Can anyone verify?
Thanks!
According to the list of cable/satellite boxes I maintain (posted earlier and in my sig below), the HBH-SA does not have a serial port.
shadrach
04-03-04, 04:56 PM
Any hope for serial control with Sony SAT-HD300?
Thanks for any info...
Yes, the SAT-HD300 will probably work.
blackmax2k1
04-03-04, 06:19 PM
So then the HTL-HD does also right?
As DosMan wrote, entries in the TiVo Cable/Satellite Box Compatibility & Codes List (http://www.web-i18n.net/~ccwf/TiVo/compatibility/post) that indicate those receivers work with APG “should be compat[i]ble” with the TV Translator gizmo.
Of course, that's not a guarantee. :)
shadrach
04-04-04, 10:33 PM
Originally posted by shadrach
Any hope for serial control with Sony SAT-HD300?
Thanks for any info...
I'll answer my own question....Yes, with the TV Translator it works for all but local OTA HD stations with X.X channel config.
Thanks!
w@ntonsoup
04-04-04, 11:41 PM
First of all, very cool product! On to my question:
It seems that this could be made to work with the cable boxes that have serial ports, right? How difficult would this be?
sgmonroe
04-05-04, 07:39 AM
so shadrach...
Your Sony HD-300 with a 9 pin data port works with the TVT? (except for the locals)
If this is true, then the Hughes HTL-HD would work also since they are the same box. If you can verify that it works direct with no other cables or mods, DOSMan has another sale.
Originally posted by w@ntonsoup
First of all, very cool product! On to my question:
It seems that this could be made to work with the cable boxes that have serial ports, right? How difficult would this be?
I would say it's probably not that tough to do the conversions, however:
1) Not only does your cable box need a serial controller, but the cable provider needs to enable that function on the cable box.
2) The ReplayTV would need to send something out the serial port when picking a cable lineup. Currently, the only choice you have is the IR Blaster. Although, there has been a report that you can somehow make a cable lineup change channels via the serial port, but nothing has been confirmed.
So, I guess the short answer is no, but the long answer is maybe.
Important note about Sony HD-300 and Hughes HTL-HD:
These two receivers use a standard 9-pin D serial connector instead of a phone jack. The TV Translator must NOT be plugged into this connector!
There are general warnings on both my web site and in the installation instructions about this, but apparently it is not clear that those warnings apply to these receivers.
The problem is that the male (satellite) side of the TV Translator is not a standard serial port. It has direct connections to several pins of the internal microprocessor, used to program the device after assembly. A customer kindly reported voltage measurements from a Sony HD-300 on these pins, and as expected, there were levels high enough to damage the TV Translator.
A work-around would be to build an adapter using male & female 9-pin D connectors (you can get them at Radio Shack). Wire only the top row of pins across (or just pins 2, 3, & 5) and hold it all together with screws & spacers. The bottom row are the pins that shouldn't be connected. I hope to offer an adapter like this in the future, but don't have anything available now.
Two customers have reported directly connecting the TV Translator to one of these receivers, and to my surprise, it has been working OK for them. However, there is also the chance it could burst into flame any minute!
sgmonroe
04-14-04, 07:02 AM
Direct plug in and it all go boom!
Dinzdale
04-14-04, 10:31 AM
Hi,
Just purchased 2 RCA DRD435's, thinking they would be compatible with my replay 4504 -- Looked at the port on the 435 and am thinking what the heck is this - it's a cross between an RJ11 and RJ45 plug, but neither of those types are compatible ! Called RCA/Thompson and they said it's for future control RCA products -- (no help).
I'm interested in purchasing your adapter, but before I do, can you tell me if it is compatible with a 4504 to a drd435 ?
The 4504 has a 25 ?pin wide data serial port in which I had been using with a 9 pin adapter to an older RCA dtv receiver.
Are there going to be any connectivity issues.
Thanks,
I'll buy one immediately if you say it will work!
Gary
Dinzdale
04-14-04, 01:21 PM
Disregard last post -- I should have read the other links on the website. The compatibility and satisfied customers pages were enough to convince me. I purchased one. Now, do I need to buy a DB-9 to J22 adapter or does it come with it.
Thanks for any help,
Dinzdale
If you are talking about a DRD435RH, you would also need a home control adapter cable (http://www.pcmx.net/dtvcon/).
Originally posted by DosMan
I'm posting any compatibility comments I get on my site at http://www.patersontech.com/Translator/Customers.aspx, but surprisingly few customers are emailing feedback to me. That link is broken—http://www.patersontech.com/Translator/Customers.aspx has no comma.
I see that other customers are using the TV Translator widget with DirecTV receivers requiring a home control cable, so I assume ReplayTV or the TV Translator ships with an appropriate adapter or connector.
The ReplayTV should have come with the serial adapter cable (DE-9 to RJ-22).
If you don't have one, RadioShack.com looks like they have something that can be made to work at http://www.radioshack.com/product.asp?catalog_name=CTLG&product_id=950-0285 -- and it's only $2.99 (plus shipping). I've ordered one to check it out.
I may be able to offer an adapter myself in the future but don't have anything now.
shadrach
04-14-04, 02:46 PM
Originally posted by sgmonroe
so shadrach...
Your Sony HD-300 with a 9 pin data port works with the TVT? (except for the locals)
If this is true, then the Hughes HTL-HD would work also since they are the same box. If you can verify that it works direct with no other cables or mods, DOSMan has another sale.
Yes it does work directly with the TVT (except X.1 Digital locals), BUT as DosMan says above it is not recommended because there is a voltage on one of the pins that COULD damage the TVT. Again, it has not blown up, but I am making an adapter as DosMan suggests that only wires the top row of pins be safe.
THANKS DOSMAN!!!
Dinzdale
04-14-04, 03:10 PM
Thanks for the replay reply all.
Yes , I'm trying to hook up a DRD435RH to a replay 4504.
I already have a serial cable with 9 - pin adapter, which I had been using to connect the replay with an older (2nd generation) RCA DTV receiver -- which had a wide data port. So correct me if I'm wrong, but I need the :
1) TV-Translator (which I've ordered) that connects to my existing serial cable from the 4505.
2) A 9-pin adapter to RJ22 ?? connecting the TV-Translator to the 435.
DosMan - I am looking for a RJ22 connector to the dtv receiver, correct ?
Dinzdale
markus98
04-14-04, 04:39 PM
That cable should have come with your replay...
Ehud
Dinzdale
04-14-04, 06:11 PM
Well -- at the risk of sounding snippy -- I obviously don't have it if I've inquired about it in 3 other posts.
Sorry - long day at work.
D
Dean Roddey
04-15-04, 09:44 PM
I would love to have any protocol info anyone has on HD STBs, so that I could do some CQC (www.charmedquark.com) drivers for them. The protocols for these things are generally simple enough that I could do them by eye as long as someone can sanity check them for me.
Dinzdale
04-18-04, 10:39 PM
Dosman -- Add me to the list of happy customers!!! I found the serial adapter this morning after having received the TV-Translator Saturday (QUICK SHIPPING!!!). Hooked it up and it works flawlessly!! I am really impressed with the concept and ingenuity that went into this item.
RPTV 4504 ---> RCA DRD435RH. Don't even consider the IR blaster if you can get one of these!!
Thanks Dosman, great product. Very pleased.
Dinzdale
retinula
04-21-04, 06:19 PM
Hello Dosman,
I sent you payment for the serial translator by Paypal a few days ago and followed up via e-mail. Haven't heard back from you yet so I thought I would try posting in the forum to see if I have a bad e-mail address or something? Are you there?
I'm kinda dead in the water here since my Replay 5040 won't change channels on new RCA DTV receiver!
Thanks in advance for you help.
retinula
(Indiana)
albakes
04-22-04, 06:23 PM
I have also ordered a TV translator and have not heard from DOSMAN. I understand you are probably busy, so when you get a chance drop me an email or put a post here so we know you are working on our orders. Thanks!
Also, I spoke with a ReplayTV representative yesterday and he confirmed that they will be releasing an update to fix this problem. So the TV translator may not be needed shortly. However, since I have already paid for it, it would be nice to get it...
retinula
04-24-04, 11:25 PM
Thanks Dosman,
I received my TV Translator, installed it today, and it works great! I have a Replay 5040 and my DTV Receiver is an RCA DRD486RH.
Works like a charm. Simple to install. Highly recommended folks!
Retinula
:)
The TV Translator is now compatible with the Sony HD300 and Hughes HTL-HD.
To use it with these receivers, you need my "9-Pin Port Adapter" for an extra $5. All this does is isolate the sensitive programming pins on the TV Translator from high levels on the receiver's serial port. You can find it on the Order page of my web site:
http://www.patersontech.com/Translator/Order.aspx
If you've already purchased a TV Translator and need this new adapter, I have a special offer to get one with the shipping & handling reduced to $2 instead of the usual $5 per order.
By amazing coincidence, just a few minutes before your latest post, I posted (http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?postid=1934391#post1934391) over in the TiVo Community Forum about using the TV Translator with a suitable adapter for ReplayTV owners with SAT-HD300 and HTL-HD receivers.
rickster
05-06-04, 03:50 PM
Originally posted by DosMan
The TV Translator is now compatible with the Sony HD300 and Hughes HTL-HD. Very cool DosMan! Any chance it can be programmed to tune to a specified .x HD channel when directed by the RTV to a regular channel?
Rick
The TV Translator could be programmed to select a subchannel, but as I don't have an HD receiver, I'm not very motivated to do this. Nor would I be able to test it.
I just received my TV Translator and 9-pin Port Adapter, but it doesn't seem to work with my ReplayTV 5040 and Sony SAT-HD300. I downloaded DTVCon to try and troubleshoot, and I can't even get DTVCon to successfully control the HD300 regardless if I enable the New Command Set and use without the TV Translator or if I disable the New Command Set and use with the TV Translator. Actually, I was able to turn the HD300 on once with DTVCon, but now I can't even get that to work again. I thought maybe my serial cable was bad, so I tried another one, but still nothing.
I read in an earlier post in this thread in which someone mentioned that even DTVCon has trouble with the HD300. Could there be something wrong with the data port on my HD300? Any comments or suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Peter
I had problems with the data port and dtvcon. I don't know what the deal is.
I'd check with DosMan and make sure you have your stuff setup correctly (ie pieces in the right places). If you are using the adapter and dvtcon you want to use the old command set. There was talk about the baud rate being odd, but I think it's 4800 or 9600 at N-8-1.
I haven't been able to get my HD300 to work with dvtcon at all. I can contol it other ways...
Peter, your testing looks thorough and I'm sorry to say I have no further suggestions for troubleshooting.
Jeff, now I'm curious about how you control your HD300 "in other ways". DTVCon seems like the ideal test of the serial link.
Has anyone else ever tried DTVCon with the Sony HD300? Did it work?
TV Translator Statistics
I have now shipped 100 TV Translators. No units are known to have failed. Two have been returned because they did not work with an individual's system (both worked when returned). There is one outstanding problem (with PLin's HD300) that may result in an additional return.
Of the two returned, one was used with a Hughes GCEBOA and ReplayTV 5060; the other with a Sony HD300 and ReplayTV 2020. These are all pieces of equipment that other users have reported success with, so my best guess is that there was some defect in the serial link of those particular sytems.
There have also been 15 sales of the 9-Pin Port Adapter, which is used only for the Sony HD300/Hughes HTL-HD twins. So while not everyone gets back to me to let me know what works, it appears that this receiver has a lot of success with the TV Translator -- but also two failures.
Orders have continued to stream in steadily, so I keep making 'em.
PLin's issue using the TVT with the HD300 has been resolved. It started working after his HD300 had been unplugged from the wall outlet, then plugged back in.
He also had a defective 9-Pin Port Adapter, the only known case of a defect reaching a customer.
CalypsoCowboy
07-14-04, 08:35 PM
Can someone with a HTL-HD comment on the speed differences between using the IR and Serial?
sixt7gt350
07-14-04, 10:38 PM
Originally posted by DosMan
PLin's issue using the TVT with the HD300 has been resolved. It started working after his HD300 had been unplugged from the wall outlet, then plugged back in.
He also had a defective 9-Pin Port Adapter, the only known case of a defect reaching a customer.
With 1 defect out of 115 shipped, you've achieved a PPM over 60000.
The Malcolm Baldrige award is not destined for your trophy case. ;)
All kidding aside, you've done an awesome job filling a critical need.
If I still had DTV, I would have bought a couple from you.
Just found this thread searching about serial control for my new RCA DRD435RH (had the new DirecTV D10 receiver, but that didn't even have IR control, much less serial control).
Anyway, can someone confirm if this device works between a Panny Showstopper 2000 and the DRD435? I'm assuming it would since it works with some of the other ReplayTV models and the DRD435, but you can never be sure (especially with an ancient model like the Showstopper).
Thanks in advance for any yea or nay responses... I'll be waiting to order. :)
Stallion[DuClaw]
08-06-04, 03:38 PM
Found this thread via search today. Has there been any word about getting the Samsung SIR-TS360 to work? I want to be able to do the replaytv on my HD box, but not have to deal with the ir not changing the channel fast enough. Yes I want my cake and to eat it too. I would appriciate any suggestions.
Originally posted by jdiehl
Just found this thread searching about serial control for my new RCA DRD435RH (had the new DirecTV D10 receiver, but that didn't even have IR control, much less serial control).
Anyway, can someone confirm if this device works between a Panny Showstopper 2000 and the DRD435? I'm assuming it would since it works with some of the other ReplayTV models and the DRD435, but you can never be sure (especially with an ancient model like the Showstopper).
Thanks in advance for any yea or nay responses... I'll be waiting to order. :)
DOSMAN RULES!!! I don't have a SS but can say that the 4Ks work with this inline gizmo! I don't see why it wouldn't work with a SS, I believe it uses the same code to change channels via serial that the later models do. That part should all be standard across the platforms, but this is just specualtion.
Good luck, I hope it works for you cuz IR SUX!!! :D:D
The Customer Experience page
http://www.patersontech.com/Translator/Customers.aspx
has the answers of what people have reported work or not.
A look there and you'll find success with all models of ShowStoppers as well as the RCA DRD435RH, so that question is easy (too easy).
As for the SIR-TS360, it's not listed so there is no answer. The web site has some suggestions for how to tell if it's likely to work -- a simple test on the Requirements page and a thorough one in the FAQ. Or you can buy one and try it, and at worst you're out 60 cents postage to send it back.
Originally posted by DosMan
A look there and you'll find success with all models of ShowStoppers as well as the RCA DRD435RH, so that question is easy (too easy).
Yeah, I looked there and saw success with the SS and DRD435 in different setups, just noone actually using them together (which is why I posted the question).
Stallion[DuClaw]
08-08-04, 01:24 AM
Originally posted by DosMan
The Customer Experience page
http://www.patersontech.com/Translator/Customers.aspx
has the answers of what people have reported work or not.
A look there and you'll find success with all models of ShowStoppers as well as the RCA DRD435RH, so that question is easy (too easy).
As for the SIR-TS360, it's not listed so there is no answer. The web site has some suggestions for how to tell if it's likely to work -- a simple test on the Requirements page and a thorough one in the FAQ. Or you can buy one and try it, and at worst you're out 60 cents postage to send it back.
True. I think I'm gonna go ahead and hook up one of my RCA's from the back room anyway, so I'm gonna go ahead and buy one. I'll see if it works out for the SIR. Thanks. Should have my order tonight.
poconopaul
08-09-04, 06:20 AM
Has anyone tried this adapter with a Showstopper and a Pansat 2500A receiver(FTA).....or will it just work with DirectTV. Thanks for any advise!
Originally posted by jdiehl
had the new DirecTV D10 receiver, but that didn't even have IR control, much less serial control Someone recently reported getting a TiVo to work with the D10 receiver via home control cable with APG. If true, then there's also a good chance ReplayTVs would be able to control the D10 with the help of the TV Translator.
DeadFire
08-20-04, 02:04 AM
... then there's also a good chance ReplayTVs would be able to control the D10 with the help of the TV Translator.
Confirmed. A friend of mine recently subscribed to DirecTV. Prior to ordering a TV Translator, he performed the test outlined on DosMan's site (http://www.patersontech.com/Translator/Requirements.aspx), and witnessed the "off & on" as described.
Once he received his TV Translator, he hooked it up and followed the setup procedure for DirecTV on ReplayTV's website, and has had zero problems so far. In fact he told me repeatedly how much faster it changes channels now.
So now I'm ready to give DirecTV a call myself. :D
Stallion[DuClaw]
08-20-04, 09:37 AM
Originally posted by DosMan
[As for the SIR-TS360, it's not listed so there is no answer. The web site has some suggestions for how to tell if it's likely to work -- a simple test on the Requirements page and a thorough one in the FAQ. Or you can buy one and try it, and at worst you're out 60 cents postage to send it back. [/B]
Well I gave it a try, and no luck. So I'm probably gonna hook up 2 recievers in the living room and use my RCA, which does work.
This is a bit off topic, but I know I can split off after the sat box to another TV. Is there any way to split the satelite cable so that I can put 2 recievers that can independently change the channel? Or does the split have to happen at the LNB? IE is it possible for me to hook up 2 recievers on one cable? Ignore me if this is just too far OT.
overthetop
08-27-04, 02:31 PM
I just got the TV Translator today. It worked great with the RTV4504 and RCA DRD435RH.... until after about 20 mins or so the DRD435 reset by itself and went through the setup and downloading guide. Is there a problem with my TV Translator? :confused:
with the latest software upate from july...the translator is not required for rca430 model...use apg setting in satsetup
The right way to say it is that ReplayTV units with the latest software now have APG support built-in, so the TV Translator is not needed. This is completely independent of receiver model.
Here is what ReplayTV says about it:
Most RCA boxes not ending in the letters RG support serial control with ReplayTV. The RCA boxes ending in RG (along with some other DirecTV receivers) use the newer APG serial command. You'll need a 5000 or 5500 unit with software version 5.1, build 144 to control the APG boxes.
It is not clear from this statement if 5000/5500 units get the upgrade over the net, but rxman's posting suggest they do. And is it automatic or is action required?
In any case, units older than a 5000 (like mine) will still need the TV Translator. I am still making units but will probably wind it down by the end of the year.
melduforx
09-27-04, 01:28 PM
The update to v144 is automatic (unless you've done something to prevent the automatic download...). v144 is only for 55xx or 5xxx series.
It works great. I'm using a D10 receiver with my 5040 via serial.
factor0815
11-14-04, 01:29 AM
Will the new software upgrade you refer to in your previous post apply to the Sony HD300 as well? I tried to use the serial cable and unplugged the IR Blaster, but it wouldn't work..Do I still need your translator, or am I missing someething?
First I'll assume you went into the ReplayTV setup menus and changed the input selection from IR Blaster to Serial APG.
If that didn't work, then you may be in the same boat as about 15% of our TV Translator customers with the Sony HD300 or Hughes HTL-HD. These customers find the unit simply doesn't work for them, and we don't know why. We've never gotten our hands on one of the failing units to test it out. The TV Translator and the ReplayTV set to Serial APG send out virtually indentical command info, so the ReplayTV may be affected in the same way.
The ideal test would be to use DTVcon from http://www.dtvcontrol.com/ to try controlling the receiver from you PC. There are a few troubleshooting tips on our web site at http://www.patersontech.com/Translator/FAQ.aspx that might apply to the ReplayTV as well.
So to summarize -- no, the TV Translator will not help you.
Originally posted by factor0815
Will the new software upgrade you refer to in your previous post apply to the Sony HD300 as well? I tried to use the serial cable and unplugged the IR Blaster, but it wouldn't work..Do I still need your translator, or am I missing someething?
If you followed what dosman said you're most likely out of luck. The HD300 should work with the replay in serial AGP mode. It works fine for me. =)
rickster
11-15-04, 09:39 AM
It works for me too (without the translator).
I suspect there's something wrong with your setup.
I just ordered the TV translator for my Samsung SIR-TS360 DirectTV receiver which is controlled by ReplayTV 5508. Will this TV translator be able to control my DirectTV receiver? I tried using a serial cable but was not able to get it to work. Has anyone got this to work with just the serial cable using AGP?
Thanks
Originally posted by virent
I just ordered the TV translator for my Samsung SIR-TS360 DirectTV receiver which is controlled by ReplayTV 5508. Will this TV translator be able to control my DirectTV receiver? I tried using a serial cable but was not able to get it to work. Has anyone got this to work with just the serial cable using AGP? No. But it can reportedly be controlled using Crestron's protocol. See my sig for more details if anyone is interested in writing a translator program that speaks that protocol in order to allow the Samsung SIR-TS-360 to be controlled by ReplayTVs and TiVo DVRs.
The Samsung TS360 does not work with the TV Translator. This fact is posted on the Customer Experience page of the web site.
There is no such thing as "Crestron protocol" per se. I have a Crestron automation system and the Crestron has "modules" (software) which adapt it to the devices being controlled. I have seen the statement that the TS360 can be controlled by a Crestron, but that doesn't help without getting the actual protocol documentation.
Tim Paterson
Paterson Technology
Originally posted by DosMan
There is no such thing as "Crestron protocol" per se. I have a Crestron automation system and the Crestron has "modules" (software) which adapt it to the devices being controlled. I have seen the statement that the TS360 can be controlled by a Crestron, but that doesn't help without getting the actual protocol documentation.
Tim Paterson
Paterson Technology Thanks very much, Tim. That certainly explains why I wasn't able to turn up any info on the protocol when I got that initial report and tried to do some further research on the subject.
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