Is it possible to activate DVR service with a used DVR?

[whitepelican]

I think I remember seeing something about DirecTV not allowing this, but can't find anything for sure here at TCF. Here's the deal: I have an extra Series 2 DirecTivo that I'm not using, and I'm wondering if I can send it to my brother and he would be allowed to activate it. He currently has DirecTV, but no DVR service. So, my question is, will DirecTV allow him to activate the DVR service with my used DirecTivo unit, or do they require you to purchase the first one through them? Does anybody know for certain if we could do this?

[thepackfan]

He could activate, however, he would need a new access card. Only you could activate using your card.

[beanpoppa]

It's really hit or missing depending what CSR you get. I recently activated a non-RID HDVR40 that I got from a friend of mine, using his access card, which had been out of service for over a year. I started off the request with "I'd like to reactivate a DVR". She asked if it was mine, and I said yes, but I thought that my service was in my roomate's name when it was active. She activated it without any problems.

He could activate, however, he would need a new access card. Only you could activate using your card.

[skw]

One problem that has come up for someone on this forum previously was activating a used DVR (or any receiver) that was bought from someone who had stopped paying their DirecTV bills. In at least one case, D* refused to activate that unit. Search if you need details.

That doens't sound like it is the problem in *this* case, but I am putting it here for completeness and to help anyone else who might be in a similar situation.

[dagap]

Probably will be able to activate it. They want to be able to track the unit. This can be done via the access card or the receiver id. Alas, the older DTivos don't have the latter, so that leaves the access card.

He might still have to buy a new access card, though. Or, if the DTivo is going to replace one of his existing receivers then he might be able to use the card from the receiver he's going to deactivate.

There's a special group at DTV that handle access card issues. Call and ask them.