MY Direct Tv dvr has recording issues?

Question

Sometimes it records two at a time and i can't watch a live program from another channel. Other times it records one show at once and i can't watch a live program from another channel. I don't change any settings or cords or anything so why is this happening?

Answer 1

directv dvrs these days are mostly dual tuners (meaning that they can record two shows on two different channels at the same time). you might even be able to watch and record a third program on a local channel, if you have an over-the-air antenna hooked to the back of the receiver.

first of all, make sure that the system is hooked up correctly. the installer should have connected TWO coaxial lines from the satellite dish to your dvr. if you look at the back of the receiver, these connections will be on the left side. i'd venture to say that the installer DID do this, but it's best to just make sure.

second, remember that each tuner can only be on one channel at a time, whether it's recording that channel or not. so if both of those channels are recording a show at the same time, and you want to watch tv, you will either have to watch one of those two shows while they record, or you can watch something that you've already recorded.

as far as the problem it gives you when you're only recording ONE show and you want to watch another live show, that is not normal. you should be able to record one show on one of the tuners, and use the other tuner to watch whatever other channel you want.

it may be a defective box, too. i would call 1800-DIRECTV and do some basic troubleshooting with the tech support department to determine whether the box is defective or not.