Is there a definitive answer on DVR4ME requirements?

[Charlutz]

I ordered the $15 dvr. I see that some people are getting an extra R15 when the installer comes. I don't want or even need an install. I already have dtivos on all my tvs. Just ordered this one as a backup. I could replace the 40g samsung in my bedroom with it, but we don't need the extra disk space on that tv. It also would be good to leave my 40g as is because there are some of my kids' holiday specials saved on there that they watch from time to time. In any event I wouldn't need an installer to do it.

1. Can I just put this one in a closet or will I get hit with the $150 non-activation fee? I already pay for tivo service and meet all the other requirements. Just wondering if they enforce the "must activate in 30 days."

2. If I need to activate it, can I decline the professional install?

Sorry as I am sure this has come up, but the threads are kinda scattered and the answers that people are relating from the CSR's are, as usual, inconsistent.

[morgantown]

1. Activate upon receipt (from fedex) and make sure it works, there have been more than a few duds. Deactivate.

2. Call and cancel install.

[JohnTivo]

Before deactivating it, let it run for a few days... recording shows etc. My unit's hard drive died after a two days.

[TivoFamily]

My neighbor had his DVR4ME install today. His unit would not power up. The installer had an R10 in his truck and gave hime that instead. He's not interested in hacking or adding a drive so the 80 Hr drive made him very happy.

[Sue C.]

Does it have to be hooked up to the tuners when you call to activate?

[morgantown]

Does it have to be hooked up to the tuners when you call to activate?

Good idea to have it hooked up to the Dish to see if it actually does work, get your programming, and so forth :). But you could do it without if you really trust your CSR.

[Sue C.]

Good thinking… I'll hook it up just to be sure it all works. I'm just planning to install the hacks for networking and use it for MRV by the treadmill, and to take on RV trips. Already had the spare hard drive...

[nesby]

I get my updates via the serial port....callvantage voip doesn't work for me. Will the installer still be able to activate the unit without a landline?

[Boston Fan]

I get my updates via the serial port....callvantage voip doesn't work for me. Will the installer still be able to activate the unit without a landline?
Yes - you don't need to be connected to a phone line for activation.

[john-duncan-yoyo]

Yes - you don't need to be connected to a phone line for activation.

FWIW the installer seemed shocked that mine was hooked up the phone line already. I just needed a few cables and a multiswitch.

[Charlutz]

Thanks for the replies, guys. But when I activate this one, will they force me to deactivate my 40 gig? And if they force me to deactivate it, will I then possibly have to pay $20 for a new access card if I want it reactivated?

[morgantown]

You don't have to deactivate your current DVR. The box will come with its own card (if it does not, they will send you one). Just leave all of them active for a few days (or hours for that matter) then pick one to deactivate if you don't need it.

[Charlutz]

You don't have to deactivate your current DVR. The box will come with its own card (if it does not, they will send you one). Just leave all of them active for a few days (or hours for that matter) then pick one to deactivate if you don't need it.

Cool. :up:

[Jim Abbett]

This stupid offer ticks me off. EVERY time I try to order online, I get "system error, please try again later" or the order does go through with no actual confirmation number.

I've called and emailed Direct TV several times. They always reply that they can't do the offer over the phone or someone will call me later to set up the order. It hasn't happened yet!