What Part Identifies a specific Lifetime Box?

[V7Goose]

What specific part in a TiVo identifies the box? For example, I just picked up a new $99 Blockbuster THD box as an insurance backup for my lifetime THD, so if I ever need to repair the THD, what parts can I swap in without changing the specific identity of the machine? I assume it is tied to the motherboard, but does anybody know the specific item? Thanx
Goose

[smbaker]

To my knowledge, it's a chip on the motherboard. As to whether or not you could move that chip or not, that would likely depend on your skill at working with SMD technology.

Of all the Tivo's I've owned (since the original philips S1), the only problems I've had were numerous hard drive failures (approx every 3-4 years of continuous operation) and the S1 battery clip issue. The motherboard itself is a relatively safe bet.

I'm not sure why you'd pick up a $99 THD to use as an insurance policy though. The most likely failure is a hard drive, and it would be to your advantage to use such an opportunity to upgrade to a larger drive from one of the aftermarket suppliers. You're also continuing an investment in older technology while the Premiere is being phased in.

[mattack]

I suspect your question violates the rules for this forum.

[V7Goose]

Originally Posted by mattack

I suspect your question violates the rules for this forum.

I suspect you are wrong. We talk about swapping hard drives, power supplies, and other repairs to existing TiVo boxes all the time on this forum.

Why would it bother you, or anyone else, that someone is asking how to repair a box without changing its identity?

[Robbdoe1]

IMHO: This question has been asked before and there is nothing wrong with it.

As said, Lifetime is tied to a chip on the board. So the only thing you would not be able to use is the board, unless you move the chip as noted. I don't think it was a bad move as you now have a PS, remote, Hdd and a multitude of other spare parts for $99. True the OP could have gotten a bigger Hdd but I suspect that was not the point.

Remember that just a PS cost $100 from the site sponsor and some people are not chasing the latest technology at all costs.

I would recommend you backup your current drive with Winmfs this way when the drive fails you have a backup with your CC settings and SP setting already, possibly avoiding a truck roll from your cable company.

Robb

[steve614]

Originally Posted by V7Goose

I suspect you are wrong. We talk about swapping hard drives, power supplies, and other repairs to existing TiVo boxes all the time on this forum.

Why would it bother you, or anyone else, that someone is asking how to repair a box without changing its identity?

IIRC, we can't discuss any hacks that would allow theft of service e.g., replacing the crypto chip with a hacked E-PROM that allows you to use the Tivo without a subscription.

Just moving the crypto chip from bad hardware to good hardware should be okay since that doesn't involve theft of service.

[robomeister]

To answer the OP's question, the Tivo's "identity" is stored on a surface mounted part on the motherboard. This part contains the TiVo Serial Number (TSN). On the older Series2 TiVos, it was an Amtel part that has about 20 solder points that need to be desoldered and then moved to an identical unit. Once the part is in the new motherboard, it will have the transplanted TSN. The hard part is removing the part without damaging the part itself and the surrounding parts. You need a steady hand and some special tools to make the job easier.

I don't know which part it is on the Series3 TiVos, so you'll need to do some more research before you start desoldering stuff.

I actually need to do this to one of my Series2 TiVos. It has the dreaded rapid flashing LEDs on power up. I've seen some people on the "other" database that have successfully transplanted the security chip, but they used a special solder wick to help remove the solder. I haven't had the time to try it, but I have a coworker that is an expert at soldering, so I'll try to get him to help me.

Good Luck,
robomeister