[jdaddy]

My series 3 seemed to be in the continual reboot mode. Finding that the most common problem was the hard drive, I replaced the hard drive (didn't format - maybe the issue), and that didn't seem to fix the problem although not all lights are flashing on the front now. I then changed the power supply, and now get a high pitched squeal, no powering up screen and tv says no signal, but all cords on Tivo and TV seem to be secure and correct. Is it the motherboard, did I miss a step, other? Thanks!

 

[ThAbtO]

Yes, you missed a few steps.
What model drive are you using exactly? (need to know because 90% of drives don't work.)
You also need a model-matching image placed on the drive.
The power supply? where did you get it? All the original would need is the capacitors changed.

 

[jdaddy]

I got a 500GB model:MD500GSA859DVR to upgrade. When that didn't work, I bought a used Tivo on eBay for the power source (now don't think ps is the problem). I switched out the original hard drive in that unit to mine and it looks like they may have just totally wiped the hard drive as it doesn't seem to do anything different. I don't think that I have the equipment (cords) to format a hard drive. What does the format button on the front of the unit do?

 

[ThAbtO]

What does the format button on the front of the unit do?

Changes video resolutions.

 

[jdaddy]

Do you think that 500GB hard drive will work if I get it formated or should I format the hard drive from the other unit? Is Weaknees the best option if I don't have the equipment? I just don't want to keep spending good money after bad. Thanks for all your help!

 

[ThAbtO]

No. The drive does not need to be formatted, instead needs an image matching the model to be placed on it.
Just swapping drives, even if its the same model, will lose everything. Shows are encoded to the original box it was recorded from, so it cannot play if that drive is in another box. To get the drive to work right in another box, you must run Clear & Delete Everything.