WTF do I have to do to get a NEtwork Adapter?!?!?!?!

[Pstang]

I don't know why I'm even dealing with this anymore, what a freakin joke!!!!!!!! These people at Tivo are absolutely worthless, clueless and just a waste of resources!

Why?!?!?

Simple......... I've had this thing for 3 weeks, I've placed 2 orders for a network adapter, yeh, one of the one's that are no longer available and discontinued, so I'm basically at Tivo's mercy! The last order was placed on 11-28, I paid for overnight shipping, they say it takes 1-2 days to process, fine whatever. So they charge my card, and supposedly ship my NA on the 30th ( overnight)! So here it is Monday and these tools can't even give me a tracking number, WTF???? What kind of company is this? There are far too many other choices for a DVR these days, but I despise taking anything back to stores, it's a waste of my time and others.

WTF do I have to do to get a freakin network adapter that will work with a brand new POS, I mean equipment?!?!?!?!?

An extremely pissed off client, close to being a former client at this point!

[krokus81]

Print out the list from TiVo's website and go to your favorite place to buy computer accessories. Buy one from the list that says it will work with your TiVo, an follow the instructions from the website on how to connect it. All of this information is easy to find in the Support section, just search on wireless. (I can't post the link for it, since this login I have on here is too new.)

Be sure to note your Service Number, and the version of the adapter you purchase, to make sure they'll work together.

[ThreeSoFar]

You're a customer, not a client.

If you were a client, TiVo would probably fire you. Too high maintenance.

[litzdog911]

You're a customer, not a client.

If you were a client, TiVo would probably fire you. Too high maintenance.

:eek: :D

[Arcady]

WTF do I have to do to get a NEtwork Adapter?!?!?!?!

I can tell you how I got my last network adapter. I opened ebay.com and searched for "FA120" and then clicked the buy it now icon next to the best deal there. (Hint: it was way cheaper than tivo's prices, too.)

[HotStuff2]

Best Buy, CompUSA, and Circuit City all sell the Netgear 802.11g wireless USB adapter that works fine with Series2. IIRC Best Buy has them on sale this week.

So, to answer your question: get off your lazy @$$ and go to the store. :rolleyes:

[Pstang]

You guys must think I'm some sort of the normal clueless tool you're accustomed to.......... Wrong............ I've been a network administrator for 10yrs and maintain some of the biggest sites most of you have visited, so don't go there....

A. I've been to Best Buy, I've been to Circuit City, i've been to CompUSA, I've been to Staples, I've been to Office max.... Now, the fact is, NONE of these places have these "discontinued required adapters" The network adapters tivo lists that are compatible with my tivo are discontinued. You can't find them in the normal places........... I've tried the 802, it doesn't work! I've tried 5 others, they don't work!

Lazy ass? pfffft whatever......

And yes, client, customer, same thing.....

Either way, Tivo f***ed up, I ordered the thing they say will work, had it overnighted and it's STILL NOT HERE!!!!!!!! Explain that pls?

The 802 only works with software rev 7? i believe? I have 5.x... so no, it doesn't work...

This Tivo is at my Condo at the lake, where we only use cell service, so no phone line, don't want one, don't need one.

There's absolutely no reason or excuse in the world that they haven't sent a freakin network adapter that I've paid for by now. I could care less about cost, etc, I just want the thing to work and get what i paid for. This is BS!

Next?!?!?!?

[Pstang]

And before anyone goes there, the Tivo was initially setup at a friends with phone and cable, I just need to connect it to my network at this point...

[DcTiVo1]

Hello there,
I am also new and have had good luck setting up the wireless network. First of all you may need to take it back to your friends and force the call to upgrade to 7.2
Call Tivo first and ask that you be put on the priority list to get the software and then force the dial up connection until the unit downloads the software and it reads "system update ".
As far as a compatible adapter I went the simple route and just ordered the adapter that they sold on the Tivo site. When you get yours it will be no problem finding a IP address and wham! connected. Good luck Just think once it is up and running you will not have to do it again.

[beejay]

As an experienced network administrator, you probably know the reaction you get to a complaint has a lot to do with how you present the complaint.

Or maybe you have enough people yelling at you that you just like to turn the tables sometimes?

[Nfuego]

WTF do I have to do to get a freakin network adapter that will work with a brand new POS, I mean equipment?!?!?!?!?

Why don't you just go to the store and buy one? Hmmmm...shopping...what a concept!

[Nfuego]

You guys must think I'm some sort of the normal clueless tool you're accustomed to.......... Wrong............ I've been a network administrator for 10yrs and maintain some of the biggest sites most of you have visited, so don't go there....

Wow...you'd think a 10 year network admin could get an adapter to work. I have 2 adapters...they both work. One isn't on the list at all.

[Pstang]

DC, that's exactly what I've done, i went the simple route after trying a few adapters as i didn't realize a new series 2 ( aka latest and greatest ) would require a discontinued adapter to work. i don't have the time to take this thing across town, inconvenience my friends to accomplish this. I merely took the easy route, ordered the thing directly from Tivo and they can't so much as give me a tracking number?!?!?!? WTF? i ordered it for overnight delivery over a week ago and they can't tell me if and when I'll get it...

And the first 5 calls, I've been very nice and tried to get things resolved, now they're just pissing me off and they're liable to get this thing back in 300+ pieces, just from principle...

I'm totally aggravated and pissed and I think for good reason, for those of you who don't agree, well, sorry, put yourself in my shoes for a day...

[Pstang]

Wow...you'd think a 10 year network admin could get an adapter to work. I have 2 adapters...they both work. One isn't on the list at all.

Take a few seconds to read the previous posts.... hey, there's a concept, read before you post.............

[dgh]

You guys must think I'm some sort of the normal clueless tool you're accustomed to..........

What makes you think our opinion of you is so high? ;)

[Pstang]

What makes you think our opinion of you is so high? ;)

So, I'm the bad guy here aye? With as many posts as you have, maybe a life is in order? Wow, another concept!!!

[dgh]

So, I'm the bad guy here aye? With as many posts as you have, maybe a life is in order? Wow, another concept!!!

... and dropping ...

[mike3775]

<---Isn't a 10 year network admin and got his non authorized network adapter to work with Tivo on the first try. Also realizes that the guy you said to get a life also only has 4,067 posts in 5 years, which anyone with 10 years as a network admin would know, comes out to 813.4 posts a year, 68 posts a month, or 2 posts per day. So basically, you have already passed his 2 posts per day in 1 day, so maybe you should be the one getting a life.

And I find your frustrations hilarious because you are supposedly a genius(by the way you phrased your comments) and a little technology that you know all about doesn't work for you.

It isn't Tivo's fault you probably hooked the adapter up all wrong.

And also expects to be flamed for the post above as well, but thats ok, is used to being cussed out by customers every day.

[DcTiVo1]

I think the problem is that He still has 5.2xxx on his Tivo. I had the same situation before I had to go back to friends house and update the software before I could hook up the Wireless setup work. NOW...I am new here also and think we can be a bit kinder to each other ...We know that sometimes we are frustrated and we asking for help and some how it comes out in our posts as....well not as we have intended.....Lets help not inflame the situation. YOU HAVE TO UPDATE BEFORE THE ADAPTOR WILL WORK.

[Glued2TiVo]

You guys must think I'm some sort of the normal clueless tool you're accustomed to.......... Wrong............ I've been a network administrator for 10yrs and maintain some of the biggest sites most of you have visited, so don't go there....

A. I've been to Best Buy, I've been to Circuit City, i've been to CompUSA, I've been to Staples, I've been to Office max.... Now, the fact is, NONE of these places have these "discontinued required adapters" The network adapters tivo lists that are compatible with my tivo are discontinued. You can't find them in the normal places........... I've tried the 802, it doesn't work! I've tried 5 others, they don't work!

Lazy ass? pfffft whatever......

And yes, client, customer, same thing.....

Either way, Tivo f***ed up, I ordered the thing they say will work, had it overnighted and it's STILL NOT HERE!!!!!!!! Explain that pls?

The 802 only works with software rev 7? i believe? I have 5.x... so no, it doesn't work...

This Tivo is at my Condo at the lake, where we only use cell service, so no phone line, don't want one, don't need one.

There's absolutely no reason or excuse in the world that they haven't sent a freakin network adapter that I've paid for by now. I could care less about cost, etc, I just want the thing to work and get what i paid for. This is BS!

Next?!?!?!?


I dont know how you expect yourslef to come trotting in here like you own the place and demand for help. That's not the way it works, at least not here. The Help Forum is a place for customers of TiVo to ask NICELY for help, and if you have looked at other threads, its a common trend. Oh and, may I add, if your such a hot-shot in networking, you should be able to fix this yourself.

Just a side note here.

Either way, Tivo f***ed up, I ordered the thing they say will work, had it overnighted and it's STILL NOT HERE!!!!!!!! Explain that pls?

Unless you have invented a Startreck way of 'beaming' things to people, I suggest you keep your mouth shut. Half the things I order come in late. Deal with it, its not new.

[Glued2TiVo]

As an experienced network administrator, you probably know the reaction you get to a complaint has a lot to do with how you present the complaint.

Or maybe you have enough people yelling at you that you just like to turn the tables sometimes?

I second that! AMEN!

[Pstang]

I expect nothing from anyone here, didn't come here asking for help. I merely made the statement, mainly a vent that these tools at Tivo can't even get a network adapter out the door after a week or more of waiting... or can't tell me where the order I placed is or when it may show up at my door...........................

I can't control the software Tivo uses in their equipment.

I can't control the adapters that they claim will work, nor can i find one outside of Tivo direct.

So, here I am at their mercy waiting for them to get off their @ss to send me a network adapter which i ordered and paid for. Overnight shipping? I've probably ordered about 5000+ various items from a number of vendors over the years and with the exception of maybe 5-10, I've never, ever had a problem with receiving an item in the timeframe requested, most of the time, i get things overnighted or 2nd day( less damage that way witht he monkeys at UPS or FedEx) Never has it been a problem. The issue here is simple, I ordered it, paid for it, they processed it, said it was shipped the 30th and it's still not here......... When I called about it, requesting a simple tracking number, they say we don't have that... WTF is that all about? what kind of company can't give you a tracking number on an order that was processed and shipped? I've bought 100 things on eBay this year and when requested a tracking number, I had it, no prob, simple stuff, aye...

Give me a break guys, i never once insulted one of you, unless of course you've insulted me first...

next???????????????

[Glued2TiVo]

I expect nothing from anyone here, didn't come here asking for help. I merely made the statement, mainly a vent that these tools at Tivo can't even get a network adapter out the door after a week or more of waiting... or can't tell me where the order I placed is or when it may show up at my door...........................

I can't control the software Tivo uses in their equipment.

I can't control the adapters that they claim will work, nor can i find one outside of Tivo direct.

So, here I am at their mercy waiting for them to get off their @ss to send me a network adapter which i ordered and paid for. Overnight shipping? I've probably ordered about 5000+ various items from a number of vendors over the years and with the exception of maybe 5-10, I've never, ever had a problem with receiving an item in the timeframe requested, most of the time, i get things overnighted or 2nd day( less damage that way witht he monkeys at UPS or FedEx) Never has it been a problem. The issue here is simple, I ordered it, paid for it, they processed it, said it was shipped the 30th and it's still not here......... When I called about it, requesting a simple tracking number, they say we don't have that... WTF is that all about? what kind of company can't give you a tracking number on an order that was processed and shipped? I've bought 100 things on eBay this year and when requested a tracking number, I had it, no prob, simple stuff, aye...

Give me a break guys, i never once insulted one of you, unless of course you've insulted me first...

next???????????????

Next time you decide to vent, vent that first. Let people know before you go on ranting.

And since you cant control certain aspects of TiVo, make a POLITE suggestion.

[DcTiVo1]

Are you just looking for banter....attention? So you don't want to get your Tivo going huh....just trolling around. Send the Tivo it back ! Buy a new Xbox I think they have a forum too.

[dgh]

didn't come here asking for help.

Then your choice of venue wasn't quite right:


TiVo Help Center
Have a TiVo issue and need to seek help? Come on in and lets talk.


We do actually try to help most people here.

[TiVoJerry]

Pstang, sorry to hear of your problem. Please send me a PM with any pertinent identification info (case #, 15-digit TSN, contact info, etc) and I will see what I can do for you.

Please keep the PM to just the facts.

Thank you.

[Pstang]

Then your choice of venue wasn't quite right:

Perhaps, but didn't want to clutter another forum, figured this would be the place most fitting. Perhaps others have gone through the same thing, and maybe someone knew a way through the seemingly useless CS at Tivo. ?

We do actually try to help most people here.

I'm sure you do, no doubt. Maybe I came across a little abrasive to others and for that I apologize, but I've been dealing with this for over 3 weeks, only since last week directly with Tivo and their "order center" Prior to that, i've tried numerous adapters to no avail. Wasted a lot of time and figured I'd bite and go straight to the source and here I am still with no Tivo... And the folks who took my order don't have a clue about it, even with all the pertinent info.

So basically that's it in a nutshell. Hence the frustration!

Peace!

[Pstang]

Are you just looking for banter....attention? So you don't want to get your Tivo going huh....just trolling around. Send the Tivo it back ! Buy a new Xbox I think they have a forum too.

No, not at all DC... You had it right the first time... I certainly don't have time to troll around... and I've been on the Xbox forums for numerous years, certainly not a troll...

I do want to get this thing going, if I didn't, I wouldn't put myself through the aggravation...

[Pstang]

Thanx Jerry! PM on the way. Not sure how much of the info i have here as I'm not at the other office, and everyone's gone from the lake already, but I'll see what i can dig up.

[ultimate]

The guy (Pstang) has every right to be upset. For a consumer device, Tivo networking is a major pain. Any laptop or PC is a breeze to network for most non-techies. For a Tivo, you not only have to find one of the approved adapters (i.e. ones that actually work), but you also have to get the exact firmware version. To quote Pstang, WTF!? I can't find an adapter for my Tivo service number 130 anywhere. All the ones that the Tivo website lists for my box are obsolete.

[TiVoJerry]

Looks like this has been a case of "what can go wrong, will go wrong" :( . Keep in mind that what follows is an explanation of what happened in the spirit of open communication since this situation does not reflect our standard operating procedures. I am not trying to make excuses for the level of service you received.

For starters, our vendor sent us the incorrect version (v2 instead of v1) of the Linksys USB200M adapter :down: . With the increased volume due to the holiday season, this put us into a backorder situation. The supply chain for the store was under the impression that a resupply was immediately pending, so notifications were not issued as we expected this would only last a day. Unfortunately, each day's end brought no shipment from the vendor <another :down: > .

As such, we've confirmed only earlier today that we should be restocked with this particular model by no later than Friday as a worst-case scenario, most likely sooner. The fact that this is the only supported wired adapter currently available in any stores made it impossible to send a compatible replacement (see www.tivo.com/adapters to read on how difficult it can be to discern between v1 & v2 just by looking at the packaging).

Again, I'm not trying to make any excuses as this clearly could've been handled in a more graceful manner. I'll be briefing the CS Team so they can work with the TiVo Store Team to analyze the situation and try to come up with a better procedure to deal with issues of this nature.

For your particular order, although you have been given a refund for the shipping cost, it is still scheduled to ship overnight once available.

I understand that an apology may do nothing to assuage your anger, but I offer it nevertheless.

[Pstang]

Jerry,

I appreciate the legwork, your efforts and info here. BUT, I know, always a but... ;)

I've called twice today and have been conversing with "Adam" at corporate and nobody has relayed this info to me, until now.

I'm not limited to a wired adapter, I've even gone so far as to replace my firewall and router to accomdate this Tivo at the lake.

Either way, I just want it rectified and working, whatever it takes at this point.

Thanx again Jerry!

[TiVoJerry]

The guy (Pstang) has every right to be upset. For a consumer device, Tivo networking is a major pain. Any laptop or PC is a breeze to network for most non-techies. For a Tivo, you not only have to find one of the approved adapters (i.e. ones that actually work), but you also have to get the exact firmware version. To quote Pstang, WTF!? I can't find an adapter for my Tivo service number 130 anywhere. All the ones that the Tivo website lists for my box are obsolete.

Any laptop or PC also has a CD tray to easily load the drivers onto the computer (PC or Mac) if you don't already have it. For a linux-based machine with no drive bay, this is not so easy. In the case of the USB200M v2, it's my understanding that there are no linux drivers even built for that adapter (but Linksys may be working on that issue) and we were not notified of any changes until someone on the forums reported it (we went into overdrive to investigate and found we can't do anything until Linksys does their part).

Bottom line: comparing a DVR to a PC for this is the classic comparison of apples and oranges.

Could we have come up with a more elegant solution? Sure, if there were no deadlines or pressures to release something useful when we did. Now we have to try and refine it to a more workable solution under the confines of the existing structure.


If we're on the bleeding edge of technology, we'd be in a very precarious position.
If we wait too long (and boy-howdy do interpretations for "too long" vary immensely, particularly amongst early adopters) to join in on a new trend, we get slammed by...well, everyone (at least it feels that way when you're on the receiving end). Pretty hard to pull a "win/win" outta that when we're damned if we do and damned if we don't!

<I hope this doesn't qualify as a rant... :D >

[TiVoJerry]

Jerry,

I appreciate the legwork, your efforts and info here. BUT, I know, always a but... ;)

I've called twice today and have been conversing with "Adam" at corporate and nobody has relayed this info to me, until now.

I'm not limited to a wired adapter, I've even gone so far as to replace my firewall and router to accomdate this Tivo at the lake.

Either way, I just want it rectified and working, whatever it takes at this point.

Thanx again Jerry!
Been working on that last post so long that this one snuck in on me.

I talked to Adam before working up the ladder. I had to use a few jedi mind tricks to get this information, as well as sacrifice a few bothans.....but all in a day's work.

Glad to help,
Jerry

[ultimate]

TivoJerry, thanks for the reply.


Bottom line: comparing a DVR to a PC for this is the classic comparison of apples and oranges.


Bottom line, Tivo is a consumer device, so I look at it from the consumer perspective. Tivo touts all kinds of nifty things you can do with the box (photos, music, TivoToGo, remote scheduling, Yahoo integration, etc.), yet when you try it, you find that you have to jump through hoops that are quite daunting for a non-techie person. The consumer is all but guaranteed to be disappointed. Yes, an engineer knows that a DVR is not like a PC, but tell that to a consumer who bought a device expecting it to actually do all the things it's advertised to do. It's my fault for not knowing how to decipher the firmware version number on the network adapter packaging? I am ignorant for not understanding Linux internals and driver issues? I shouldn't complain that the only adapters listed as working with my box (service number 130) don't even exist in the marketplace?

Oh well. I am not going to toss out my Tivo, but I would hope for a more reasonable solution from the company to make networking less of a hassle.

[TiVoJerry]

I shouldn't complain that the only adapters listed as working with my box (service number 130) don't even exist in the marketplace?

Oh well. I am not going to toss out my Tivo, but I would hope for a more reasonable solution from the company to make networking less of a hassle.

We're definitely working on trying to improve the adapter situation, something hard to do in a world of technology with ever-constant changes (can't we all just get along and stick to one set of unified protocols!?!?). We hope to have a better wireless solution available in the very near future that will even work with the old 130 platform!

As always, we realize that units with older SW are still out there on the shelves and will be for some time to come, which will always cause grief for those required to upgrade before being able to use a newer version of an adapter. Each month we even notice a few BRAND NEW series 1 units popping up on the server for the first time ever!

[Pstang]

Alright, now how do i integrate my TopLayer IPS5500 into my network with my Tivo now? ;)

[liberty]

Maybe using a wireless access point and running an Ethernet cable to the TiVo unit, in place of a wireless adapter, would work...

[HotStuff2]

I'm gonna go a little off-topic here. First, when I got my TiVo originally, I was unhappy with it. 802.11g was't supported, and doing setup required a phone (and I only have a cel phone.) I initially complained a lot, and people flamed me. I understand the frustration the OP has. But secondly, I was able to get it done, and get it to go wireless using 802.11b - because I know how to figure things out. When the 7.2 software came out, I took it to 802.11g with no worries, using an adapter that is "on the list:" but not supported.

As he is a "10 year network admin", one would think he could figure out a way "outside the box" to get it accomplished. Tat isn't the case, apparently. :rolleyes: I too work in IT - security is my main focus, but I do a lot more. I see lots of people say "I've been in IT/networks/etc. for X years, I know what I'm doing". WRONG. Just because you've been doing it for X years (be it 5, 10, 25 whatever) doesn't mean you know what you're doing. It just means you've had a job that long. :cool: And after working for "10 years", one would think you'd learn how to actually figure things out, or how to seek assistance. Again, apparently not.

Regardless, TiVoJerry appears to have the situation under control. The OP will be getting an adapter that he can plug in and get working with little or no effor on his part (other than complaining) and that will be that.

[Pstang]

I'm gonna go a little off-topic here. First, when I got my TiVo originally, I was unhappy with it. 802.11g was't supported, and doing setup required a phone (and I only have a cel phone.) I initially complained a lot, and people flamed me. I understand the frustration the OP has. But secondly, I was able to get it done, and get it to go wireless using 802.11b - because I know how to figure things out. When the 7.2 software came out, I took it to 802.11g with no worries, using an adapter that is "on the list:" but not supported.

As he is a "10 year network admin", one would think he could figure out a way "outside the box" to get it accomplished. Tat isn't the case, apparently. :rolleyes: I too work in IT - security is my main focus, but I do a lot more. I see lots of people say "I've been in IT/networks/etc. for X years, I know what I'm doing". WRONG. Just because you've been doing it for X years (be it 5, 10, 25 whatever) doesn't mean you know what you're doing. It just means you've had a job that long. :cool: And after working for "10 years", one would think you'd learn how to actually figure things out, or how to seek assistance. Again, apparently not.

Regardless, TiVoJerry appears to have the situation under control. The OP will be getting an adapter that he can plug in and get working with little or no effor on his part (other than complaining) and that will be that.

I'm not even gonna reply cept with... I can't force a piece of hardware to accept a device that's not supported nor have a way to install drivers... nuf said... and it's not just a job i've had, trust me...

[Fredo TiVo]

Pstang,

I feel for you! I spent three days trying to set up my newly acquired Humax DRT400 which unknown to me was running version 5.... software.

I went to CC and bought a wireless USB adapter of the correct part number.

Somewhere along the line, I learned that I needed to download software version 7.2.1 if I wanted to run 802.11g wireless. I called TiVo and requested a download. The TiVo rep said that the server would be ready for a download in 3 to 4 days! After three days I, once again, I dragged the phone line across my room to the nearest phone jack and downloaded the required software. I connected the wireless adapter to the DRT400 and nothing happened. The TiVo box didn't recognize the adapter!

I called Humax and they told me to contact TiVo and list the recommended adapters. I had already done this and didn't think that an adapter of a newer revision should present a problem. Little did I know that the drivers written by TiVo won't work with the later USB adapters. The recommended wireless adapter was rev. A and I bought rev B! I returned the adapter to CC and bought the NetGear WG-111NA adapter from TiVo.

Now I have the system working on the network into a DSL high speed connection to the internet. So far the adapter works well and I have automatic downloads.

Unfortunately my IR link from the remote to the TiVo box isn't consistant. I often get double clicks when I press a button and it drives me crazy when changing channels or trying to label DVDs or doing commands.

Humaxhas sent me a second control but it does the same thing. Humax is now going to send a replacement box and TiVo will transfer my lifetime membership when the new box arrives. I just hate to think of going through another set up routine with the phone line etc.

I noticed some of the guys taking pot shots but I can't do that because I am a 70 year old retired EE with over 45 years in the communications field. I just thought that TiVo would be Plug and Play and any USB wireless adapter should work from any USB port!

Lots of luck

[Pstang]

I think the whole thing was just a sever case of mis-communication actually. I got tired of trying this and that and finally just ordered one direct, wired or wireless, makes no difference to me, but the fact was they didn't have the adapters I can use in stock and "nobody" relayed that to me, had they did, this post wouldn't even exist. Maybe one asking where I can find an adapter for vs5.x but that'd be the extent of it.

Only after Jerry tracked it all down did I find this out... Oh well, I guess I'll get one next week sometime for the lake. I did buy another Tivo for home last night for DirectTV HD and set it up, no prob, everything's working as it should, wireless and all is good!

And for you St Louis guys, I live right across the river and the lake house I speak of is at the mighty Lake O, home of Party Cove!.... ;)

Peace all!

[sholleran]

Maybe using a wireless access point and running an Ethernet cable to the TiVo unit, in place of a wireless adapter, would work...

Good advice, to consider alternative config. Actually, you don't want an access point, you want a wireless bridge or wireless relay (sometimes sold as a wireless "gaming adapter"). The terms sure get confusing. I found TiVo to Netgear FA120 (usb ethernet) to Netgear WGE111 (wireless gaming adapter) got the job done, with a minimal amount of ethernet.

[Pstang]

Well, my secretary at the lake informed last night that I have a network adapter waiting for me down there, so hopefully, we'll get this done this weekend! :)

Thanx again to all of you, positive and negative, especially Jerry for the added legwork!

[audiocrawford]

The guy (Pstang) has every right to be upset. For a consumer device, Tivo networking is a major pain. Any laptop or PC is a breeze to network for most non-techies. For a Tivo, you not only have to find one of the approved adapters (i.e. ones that actually work), but you also have to get the exact firmware version. To quote Pstang, WTF!? I can't find an adapter for my Tivo service number 130 anywhere. All the ones that the Tivo website lists for my box are obsolete.

I agree as well. Of course, I disagree with the way the OP represented himself initially (though I certainly understand the frustration), and it wasn't unpredictable that some people used it as an excuse to jump down someones throat because they are so used to the odd hoops TiVo expects you to go through. You know, there is a reason that TiVo is one of the most revolutionary products EVER, yet it's market penetration hasn't even bested Laserdisc yet after half a decade. Things like this are one of them (bad manners on both sides of the thread aside).

The adapter thing is a PITA, plain and simple. It really irks me to see people say, "Go to a store, what a concept" when they obviously have not tried going to a mass merchant to buy an adapter that works with the TiVo recently. I have - I walked around a dozen stores, list in hand, and no one generally carries those models any more. I spoke to many sales people as well. Finally, I found one store - I believe it was a Staples - that DID have the right model, but not the right firmware version. So I totally understand why the OP is frustrated.

After realizing I wasn't going to be able to walk into a store and get one, instead of buying from the TiVo website (as I have spoken to several people who still were sent the wrong version, and I'm very leery of the CS in general), I finally went to Amazon and by reading user reviews found one that people reported worked with their TiVo. The one I choose was the "Netgear FA120 10/100 USB 2.0 Adapter", (which I believe is listed by TiVo as "reported" to work, not specificly "approved") and it did indeed work out of the box, after a week of trying to find the proper one.

So, again, the OP's original post wasn't the most pleasant ever, but they do have a valid point. As a consumer electronics device, TiVo should accept a much wider range of network adapter. I have the same issue with XBOX-live - it only works with a certain few routers, just like TiVo only works with a certain few adapters. I understand the excuses as to why, but that doesn't change the fact that if this is frustrating to people who have do have technical knowledge imagine what it's like for someone who doesn't. It's one of the very reasons TiVo remains more of a niche than a standard living room appliance. As more and more people get broadband and TiVo (hopefully) increases penetration this is going to become more of an issue, one I wish the TiVo team would address more fully (and not just wait for Series 3 when undoubtedly they will build one in, but then again - wouldn't they have router problems then, like XBOX live?).

AC

[ThreeSoFar]

What version are recent TiVos shipping with? I did a guided setup recently on an upgraded unit with 7.2 installed, and it was a breeze. I really like the changes they've made to GS. I have wired ethernet adapters, but it found them right away.

[audiocrawford]

What version are recent TiVos shipping with? I did a guided setup recently on an upgraded unit with 7.2 installed, and it was a breeze. I really like the changes they've made to GS. I have wired ethernet adapters, but it found them right away.

It depends on where you get them I would assume. I bought one two months ago that was manufactured in Sept 2004, and I believe it had something like 5.*. That one had a defective drive, and when I replaced it with one from another vendor (shipped clear across the country from the first) it also had a Septermber 2004 manufacture date (albeit two weeks later) and the same version. I'd be curious to know what the latest manufacture dates are - do they continuously manufacture them? I know nothing about that side of TiVo.

I too use wired ethernet adapters, and once I got the "magic" one that worked in my TiVo set-up was a piece of cake. After I told it to use the network instead of the phone, it has worked flawlessly. It's just finding the magic one that can be a bit frustrating.

AC

[ThreeSoFar]

I keep a spare Hawking wired adapter (you can find them for around $10) and a long ethernet cable for when I'm helping a friend set one up. The Hawking (wired) I've tried all worked with the ",#401" trick.

[liberty]

Actually, you don't want an access point, you want a wireless bridge or wireless relay (sometimes sold as a wireless "gaming adapter"). The terms sure get confusing. I found TiVo to Netgear FA120 (usb ethernet) to Netgear WGE111 (wireless gaming adapter) got the job done, with a minimal amount of ethernet.

Had no idea what a bridge was. Thanks for the info. Have read about a bridge being used to activate VoIP in WiFi hotels also, quite a useful device!

[haretrigger]

You guys must think I'm some sort of the normal clueless tool you're accustomed to.......... Wrong............ I've been a network administrator for 10yrs and maintain some of the biggest sites most of you have visited, so don't go there....

A. I've been to Best Buy, I've been to Circuit City, i've been to CompUSA, I've been to Staples, I've been to Office max.... Now, the fact is, NONE of these places have these "discontinued required adapters" The network adapters tivo lists that are compatible with my tivo are discontinued. You can't find them in the normal places........... I've tried the 802, it doesn't work! I've tried 5 others, they don't work!

Lazy ass? pfffft whatever......

And yes, client, customer, same thing.....

Either way, Tivo f***ed up, I ordered the thing they say will work, had it overnighted and it's STILL NOT HERE!!!!!!!! Explain that pls?

The 802 only works with software rev 7? i believe? I have 5.x... so no, it doesn't work...

This Tivo is at my Condo at the lake, where we only use cell service, so no phone line, don't want one, don't need one.

There's absolutely no reason or excuse in the world that they haven't sent a freakin network adapter that I've paid for by now. I could care less about cost, etc, I just want the thing to work and get what i paid for. This is BS!

Next?!?!?!?
Dude, no offense but you need to calm down. I work in telcom and deal with arrogant people like you everyday. If your not happy with TiVo then just fire them. Yes, there are alternatives to TiVo out there but none are as good as TiVo is in regards to the service they offer. Personally I have not had a problem with their support team. TiVo has always been quite helpfull with any issues I called them with. So stop your complaining and either find the NA that is right for you or just get rid of the service. I'm sure that the people on this forum would appreciate it much.

Welcome to the next level.

[The.Mayor]

I expect nothing from anyone here, didn't come here asking for help. I merely made the statement, mainly a vent that these tools at Tivo can't even get a network adapter out the door after a week or more of waiting... or can't tell me where the order I placed is or when it may show up at my door...........................

I can't control the software Tivo uses in their equipment.

I can't control the adapters that they claim will work, nor can i find one outside of Tivo direct.

So, here I am at their mercy waiting for them to get off their @ss to send me a network adapter which i ordered and paid for. Overnight shipping? I've probably ordered about 5000+ various items from a number of vendors over the years and with the exception of maybe 5-10, I've never, ever had a problem with receiving an item in the timeframe requested, most of the time, i get things overnighted or 2nd day( less damage that way witht he monkeys at UPS or FedEx) Never has it been a problem. The issue here is simple, I ordered it, paid for it, they processed it, said it was shipped the 30th and it's still not here......... When I called about it, requesting a simple tracking number, they say we don't have that... WTF is that all about? what kind of company can't give you a tracking number on an order that was processed and shipped? I've bought 100 things on eBay this year and when requested a tracking number, I had it, no prob, simple stuff, aye...

Give me a break guys, i never once insulted one of you, unless of course you've insulted me first...

next???????????????

I have felt so frustrated that I can relate to you! Not at Tivo, but many businesses in general. I am glad someone sensed your troubles and offered you help. May everything work out for you. :)

John

BTW, I have very few answers but lots of questions.

Good luck!

[Pstang]

Dude, no offense but you need to calm down. I work in telcom and deal with arrogant people like you everyday. If your not happy with TiVo then just fire them. Yes, there are alternatives to TiVo out there but none are as good as TiVo is in regards to the service they offer. Personally I have not had a problem with their support team. TiVo has always been quite helpfull with any issues I called them with. So stop your complaining and either find the NA that is right for you or just get rid of the service. I'm sure that the people on this forum would appreciate it much.

Welcome to the next level.

You're a tad bit late with all that... And no, I'm not arrogant, and no I'm not firing Tivo, they screwed up, admitted it, I've since got my NA ( haven't tried it yet, but will tonight ) My post and rant, etc came only weeks after starting this entire fiasco, so it wasn't a day, like you may think.

I think if you go back and read the entire thread, each and every post made by myself and others, you'll probably see why I was so pissed and got on the defensive side, who wouldn't?

Either way, hopefully I'll get to the lake tonight and all will be fine and dandy.

[pbruno74]

What version are recent TiVos shipping with? I did a guided setup recently on an upgraded unit with 7.2 installed, and it was a breeze. I really like the changes they've made to GS. I have wired ethernet adapters, but it found them right away.

I ordered a unit direct from TiVo about 2 weeks ago. SN starts w/ 540. Came with 7.2.1. I've been trying to get it setup with a wireless adapter, the Netgear WG111 w/ sn 130 is the latest one, though I've tried others, and am consistently getting the N08 issue which has been discussed on the Tivo com forums but not so much here. Sounds like it's an issue with the latest software upgrade. The adapter itself is picking up the network fine, as confirmed by the router which shows it finds an IP address on connection. But the guided setup bombs out saying the adapter isn't supported (error N08). Pretty frustrating, especially as I don't have a land line. Guess I'll try a wired adapter if I can find one and hope the software updates itself sometime in the near future.

I read in another post that Tivo's customer service has been inundated recently on this issue and is working on a fix, which sounds hazy at best. Wondering if anyone else has heard likewise.

[ThreeSoFar]

I ordered a unit direct from TiVo about 2 weeks ago. SN starts w/ 540. Came with 7.2.1. I've been trying to get it setup with a wireless adapter, the Netgear WG111 w/ sn 130 is the latest one, though I've tried others, and am consistently getting the N08 issue which has been discussed on the Tivo com forums but not so much here. Sounds like it's an issue with the latest software upgrade. The adapter itself is picking up the network fine, as confirmed by the router which shows it finds an IP address on connection. But the guided setup bombs out saying the adapter isn't supported (error N08). Pretty frustrating, especially as I don't have a land line. Guess I'll try a wired adapter if I can find one and hope the software updates itself sometime in the near future.

I read in another post that Tivo's customer service has been inundated recently on this issue and is working on a fix, which sounds hazy at best. Wondering if anyone else has heard likewise.
It is disappointing that a new release like that does so poorly. Post here if you get it to work with wired or not.

I know for sure 7.2.1oth works from initial guided setup (after a clear & delete everything) with a wired Hawking adapter. Detecting the network right away and never even showing any dialup screens.

[TiVoJerry]

The good news is that today we put up the TiVo Wireless G Adapter. This adapter is fully supported by ALL Series2 standalone platforms, even the units with a prefix of 110, 130, or 140. The thread discussing all of this is here (http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?t=278655)

[audiocrawford]

The good news is that today we put up the TiVo Wireless G Adapter. This adapter is fully supported by ALL Series2 standalone platforms, even the units with a prefix of 110, 130, or 140. The thread discussing all of this is here (http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?t=278655)

What about wired customers?

Wireless is convenient for some, but wired is always going to be better when it's possible.

We want a fully compatable adapter too! ;)

AC

[VinceA]

I'm waiting to see if the throughput is greater than wired with the new wireless adapter. Things have been pretty good here with the wired connections...

[Odysseus]

You know, with all of the issues involved with getting a USB network adapter, I'm wondering why it hasn't already been made standard equipment as part of the TiVo, either an adapter in the box or an ethernet plug on the back.

And yes, these would be wired, but it sounds like it would be easier to find a compatible ethernet <-> wireless adapter than it would be to get a USB <-> wireless adapter (plus the USB plugs could still be available)

[tim36]

Wow...you'd think a 10 year network admin could get an adapter to work. I have 2 adapters...they both work. One isn't on the list at all.

I'm also trying to find wireless adaptors that will work and hoping not to pay $50 each for the Tivo branded ones. Which one did you get to work and how? Or if you could just point me to that info I'd appreciate it.

[gtrogue]

I'm also trying to find wireless adaptors that will work and hoping not to pay $50 each for the Tivo branded ones. Which one did you get to work and how? Or if you could just point me to that info I'd appreciate it.
I spent two days going to two Best Buys, two Circuit City's, two CompUSA's, and a Microcenter trying to find a supported wired or wireless adapter and couldn't find a single one. I finally broke down and ordered the Tivo version.

The really sad thing is that I have two USB200M's that I used with two hacked Series 2 DirecTivo's in a PODS storage container. They mistakenly got packed up during a recent move and I haven't been able to get to the PODS storage facility to sift through my crap and find them.

[ThreeSoFar]

I spent two days going to two Best Buys, two Circuit City's, two CompUSA's, and a Microcenter trying to find a supported wired or wireless adapter and couldn't find a single one. I finally broke down and ordered the Tivo version.

The really sad thing is that I have two USB200M's that I used with two hacked Series 2 DirecTivo's in a PODS storage container. They mistakenly got packed up during a recent move and I haven't been able to get to the PODS storage facility to sift through my crap and find them.
Wouldn't searching and buying online be much easier?
http://froogle.google.com/froogle?hl=en&btnG=Search+Froogle&q=usb+ethernet+adapter&lmode=online&scoring=p&groupby=n

[gtrogue]

Wouldn't searching and buying online be much easier?
http://froogle.google.com/froogle?hl=en&btnG=Search+Froogle&q=usb+ethernet+adapter&lmode=online&scoring=p&groupby=n
Of course it would, I never said the adapters couldn't be found online. However, I was trying to get them working over a holiday weekend without having to wait on something to be shipped to me.

[ThreeSoFar]

Of course it would, I never said the adapters couldn't be found online. However, I was trying to get them working over a holiday weekend without having to wait on something to be shipped to me.
Figured something like that.

I have a spare Hawking or two lying around as a safety net.