Another way to connect TiVo to its servers besides using phone lines on my R10?

[curtisj1]

I would like to go to VOIP phone system in our house, but what is the best way to keep TiVo connected to its servers (alternative to using phone lines)? Can the USB port be turned on in the DirecTV R10 units so that I can connect them to my wireless network? Or is there some sort of adapter to connect them to my cable modem?

[ttodd1]

The USB ports are not "active" on any DTivo. The only way to hack the R10 is to do a PROM mod first. You don't even need the phone line connected after the intial setup, the box will still work. You loose the ability to order PPVs through the remote but you can order them through the website.

[stim]

As noted above, it is not required aside from the initial call and any software updates (haha). :)

If you really want it to make the daily call then you can have it connect through a serial cable hooked up to your computer. http://www.b-lan.com/otto/tivo3xp/

[debennett2]

So does the serial-to-serial fix work for the r10 out of the box or do I need to do the PROM mod first?

Also, where can I get the PROM mod. I haven't been able to find one. Thanks!!!

[Guindalf]

The PROM mod requires soldering directly onto the motherboard and is not recommended unless you have considerable electronics/soldering skills.

Your questions would be much better answered in the TiVo Underground (http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/forumdisplay.php?f=8) forum, where the hackers and modders lurk!