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View Full Version : RCA DirecTv DVR 40 questions

woopud
04-28-2009, 07:10 AM
Hi all, I have an RCA DirecTV DVR 40. Lately it has been having some issues, every recorded program has some digital static in it just those little squares where the video is messed up, I think the hard drive is dying. Can I replace the hard drive myself ? Also, right now the software version is 6.4.1 and I would really like the newer software version so I can hook up a wireless adapter to it. Is this possible too ?

Thanks,
Bert
rbtravis
04-28-2009, 08:06 AM
Yes it is easy to replace the hard drive yourself. Remember to unplug the unit at least 15 minutes before starting because the power supply is unshielded. I would suggest you get your hard drive pre-imaged from DVRupgrade or at least buy instantcake to image it yourself. 6.4a is the current release of software, if you want wireless you have to downgrade to 6.2a and purchase PTVnet also from DVRupgrade. If you do prepare to have season pass problems as the format changed between 6.2a and 6.4a. Good Luck and be careful. :)
JimSpence
04-28-2009, 08:09 AM
Check this thread for what another member asked.
http://www.tivocommunity.com/tivo-vb/showthread.php?t=424259

it's been so long, but I don't believe that model has the hardware to support networking. There may be additional hardware that could be added. Like I said, it's been awhile for that machine.

rbtravis said it better. :)
Dkerr24
04-28-2009, 08:26 AM
One of my DTivo units is a RCA DVR 40. With the proper hacks (ie Tivo zipper), it supports networking. I'm using the wired USB to ethernet adapters to connect my two receivers to my PC network at home.
woopud
04-28-2009, 06:44 PM
With this software (instantcake) do I need the old hard drive from the Tivo unit to copy it or can you install a whole new īmage"on the new hard drive?

Bert

Yes it is easy to replace the hard drive yourself. Remember to unplug the unit at least 15 minutes before starting because the power supply is unshielded. I would suggest you get your hard drive pre-imaged from DVRupgrade or at least buy instantcake to image it yourself. 6.4a is the current release of software, if you want wireless you have to downgrade to 6.2a and purchase PTVnet also from DVRupgrade. If you do prepare to have season pass problems as the format changed between 6.2a and 6.4a. Good Luck and be careful. :)
JimSpence
04-28-2009, 08:51 PM
InstantCake is the image so it can be installed on the drive of your choice. Just make sure you get the one for your model.