Recieve software/version updates after upgrade?

[ogre73]

Hi everyone,
Sorry for such a newbie question, but I couldn't find the answer after searching. If I upgrade my Series 2 TCD240040 refurbished (v7.1) to add a 200GB HDD, will I still be able to use the Music and Photos function and will I still receive software updates and add-ons? My family enjoys the Music and Photos feature, and I would like to keep it if possible.
Thanks in advance.
Jim

[classicsat]

Yes. All service features and upgrades will remain. I'd recommend you replace the drive though, rather than add, unless you have a 200 GB drive already installed.

[ogre73]

classicsat,
Thank you. Why would I replace the drive, rather than add one? Is it because of the available capacity?

[Ipaqjoe]

My thoughts on replacing vice adding are:
-is the original 40gb worth the hassle? 40GB is nothing in added space/value

-Less stress on the power supply (having one large single drive)
-Less heat
-Less noise
-No expense in getting a bracket to mount two drives (if needed)
-etc...

I have had good luck selling my used 40gb drive on craigslist/ebay for $20-30 and using the proceeds to fund the upgrade. With after rebate prices on a 300GB around $70 that is one cheap upgrade

[ogre73]

Thank you for the reply.
I had just ordered a bracket and kit from weaknees before this original post, but I am reconsidering using it, now. I think that I will do as you say and just go with the 200 GB Maxtor I got for $30.00 (after rebate) by itself for now. Maybe later I will find another large drive and add it for the second, since I will have the bracket.

One more question that was somewhat unclear to me, even after reading the sticky posts and searching. Will I be able to utilize the full 200 GB of the new drive? I have version 7.1 software now running, if that has anything to do with it. I thought I had read something about a kernel, but I don't know what that is or if I will need it.

[Ipaqjoe]

Thank you for the reply.
I had just ordered a bracket and kit from weaknees before this original post, but I am reconsidering using it, now. I think that I will do as you say and just go with the 200 GB Maxtor I got for $30.00 (after rebate) by itself for now. Maybe later I will find another large drive and add it for the second, since I will have the bracket.

One more question that was somewhat unclear to me, even after reading the sticky posts and searching. Will I be able to utilize the full 200 GB of the new drive? I have version 7.1 software now running, if that has anything to do with it. I thought I had read something about a kernel, but I don't know what that is or if I will need it.

Since you say you have version 7.1 that tells me you have a series 2 Tivo, so yes you will be able to use the entire 200GB. My series 1 tivos have been in my closet for quite a while so I forget what version they stopped at (3.0 if I recall, maybe 4.0)

No worries about any kernel's or hard to perform (for some) hacks.
Also by using a 200GB drive you won't have any potential headaches about swap file size, the standard swap file is just fine for a 200GB upgrade

The weaknees guide is easy to use & my choice when I do my upgrades.
http://tivo.upgrade-instructions.com/

Good Luck

[classicsat]

S1s stopped at 3.0, LBA 48 came out with 5.0 (and the HD-TiVo).
A hacked LBA kernel can be installed to a Series 1.

Add what swap you can now. I even put 128 MB swap on my 80 GB systems.

[ogre73]

Thanks to you both for the excellent information. I intend to try the upgrade within the week. I guess when I get the bracket I'll have to get another large drive to make this a monstrous capacity! Just kidding...for now.
Thanks again for the info. Very valuable.