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PVR HD DECODER
What is HD?
HD (which stands for High Definition) has revolutionised the television experience with lifelike viewing, sharper images, more vibrant colours and precision picture quality.
The image quality has up to five times more detail than your normal digital TV.
HD is a digital television broadcasting system with higher resolution than traditional Standard Definition (SD) television systems. Instead of using the conventional 625 lines
to plot a TV picture, HD uses 720 or 1080 lines. In addition, the pixels in each of those lines are smaller and closer together, resulting in hugely improved picture quality,
clarity and colour definition.
HD also uses more colours than SD, increasing the richness and intensity of everything you watch. Most HD programmes and movies utilise the widescreen 16:9 format and are also
created with cinema-style surround sound, that you can experience in full with a compatible surround sound system.
It’s the ultimate way to watch your favourite movies, series and sporting events and it’s going to deliver so much more!
To experience the full magic of HD you require the following:
HD PVR (connected to the TV via a HDMI cable)
A Full HD or HD ready TV
Satellite installation (minimum twin LNB) - Click here for XtraView installation options or check out our Installation FAQs.
Home Theatre System (optional)
A DStv Premium subscription (The M-Net HD Channel is only available to DStv Premium subscribers)
Note: A Home Theatre System is optional you can still watch HD content without Surround Sound.
HD PVR
The introduction of the new DStv HD PVR (High Definition Personal Video Recorder) decoder has further revolutionised the television experience with lifelike viewing, sharper
images, more vibrant colours and precision picture quality.
Now you can enjoy colours so rich you can feel their intensity, and a picture so sharp you can see every face in the crowd. You’ll be wowed.
The HD PVR allows you to view one channel, while recording two other channels simultaneously. It also offers you the following benefits:
Record 150 hours of standard definition TV (double the SD PVR) or 50 hours of HD TV.
24 hour i-Plate
Surround Sound capability
Pause live TV programming
Rewind programming
Fast forward and slo-mo programming you have recorded
The HD PVR also introduces a new feature called "Favourite Channels". If you select your favourite channels, you get the following :
A personalised TV Guide, listing the schedules for just those channels.
A personalised viewing environment (like the current bouquets on other decoders) which includes only your selected channels. This means that when “surfing” through the channels
you only see the channels you have selected, so no more hopping over unwanted or unavailable channels.
A Favourite Channels Grid – similar to the existing channel grid, but listing only the channels you selected, making it easier to tune between channels.
While the HD PVR may not be a dual view PVR we have introduced XtraView to cater to your needs. XtraView takes care of the second and in some cases, third viewing environment at
no additional subscription fee to what you currently pay for on the DualView decoder or SD PVR.
Compatible TVs
Which TVs are compatible with the MultiChoice HD PVR?
Look out for the "HD Ready” or "Full HD" sticker when purchasing a TV, which means that the TV is capable of displaying at least 720 lines of resolution and can scale up lower
resolution signals plus scale down higher resolution signals to fit the screen.
Check the resolution which should be 1280 x 720 or higher.
The TV should also have at least 1 HDMI (High Definition media interface) input which is HDCP compliant.
Although MultiChoice has tested the HD PVR with many of the HD TV brands available in SA, there are many new and imported models also available.
If your TV is marketed as "HD Ready" or "Full HD" and does not work with the HD PVR, we suggest that you check the components and / or contact the manufacturer of the TV for
assistance.Home Theatre System
The HD PVR is Surround Sound capable. To experience the full magic of HD content with high quality sound you will need a compatible 6 speaker Home Theatre System.
There are many brands and models available – speak to the salesman at your local retailer for advice on which system will best suit your needs and budget.
Then all you need to do is get wired for sound, sit back and prepare to be blown away!
Note :
At the moment, HDMI only supports stereo (including the HD channel, and MM1), where AC3 (Dolby Digital 5.1) is present. You can work around this by using HDMI (either directly
to panel or via amp) for video, and use the SP/DIF connector (either optical or co-axial) to the amp to decode the Dolby Digital soundtrack on the amp.
The current state of HD PVR audio is:
SP/DIF: Co-Axial - Works perfectly with AC3 (DD) & stereo broadcasts (events).
SP/DIF: Digital Optical - Works perfectly with AC3 (DD) & stereo broadcasts (events).
RCA: Stereo or ProLogic (if broadcast)
Content
M-Net HD is the only HD channel currently offered on the DStv bouquet. The schedule contains a variety of programming from our family of channels, such as M-Net, go, M-Net Series,
M-Net Action, M-Net Movies and SuperSport.
With the ultimate mix of series, movies, wildlife documentaries, sporting action and once-off specials, you will always be entertained. As a bonus, some of the programming - mainly
movies, series and specials - will also be available in surround sound.
HD - Overview
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1. What is HD?
HD (High Definition) is a digital television broadcasting system with higher resolution than traditional Standard Definition (SD) television systems.
Instead of using the conventional 625 lines (of which only 576 lines are actually visible) to plot a TV picture, HD uses 720 or 1080 lines. In addition, the pixels in each of those
lines are smaller and closer together, resulting in hugely improved picture quality, clarity and colour definition.
HD also uses more colours, increasing the richness and intensity of everything you watch. Most HD programmes and movies utilize the widescreen 16:9 format and are also created with
cinema-style surround sound, that you can experience in full with a compatible surround sound system.
It's the ultimate way to watch your favourite movies, series and sporting events and it delivers so much more!
2. What do I need to watch HD?
A Full HD or HD Ready TV (HDMI input must be HDCP compliant)
HD PVR (connected to the TV via a HDMI cable)
HD PVR compliant satellite dish installation (minimum of a twin LNB used in conjunction with a 4-way multiswitch). The HD PVR requires 4 separate inputs from the dish, or a single
feed from a SaTCR cable.
Relevant DStv subscription
Home Theatre System (optional)
3. What is a HD "Ready" TV?
A HD "ready" TV is capable of displaying at least 720 lines of resolution and can scale up lower resolution signals plus scale down higher resolution signals to fit the screen.
Check the resolution which should be 1280 x 720 or higher. The TV should also have at least 1 HDMI (High Definition media interface) input which is HDCP compliant.
4. Can I watch HD content on my current, non-HD TV?
Yes, however the content is "downscaled" in resolution and displayed in Standard Definition, ie. the quality will not be the same as if viewed on a HD TV. Please note that without
the HD PVR decoder, no HD content is available, regardless of the type of TV you have.
5. I have a non-HD TV. Can I still get the surround sound on the HD programmes?
Yes, the 5.1 surround sound is sent through the optical and digital coaxial audio outputs as well.
6. If the TV set is marked as "HD compatible", is it suitable for viewing HD content?
Not necessarily. Most normal TVs are "HD compatible", ie. it just means that the TV is capable of displaying a HD signal (albeit in SD resolution). It is advisable to purchase a TV
that is either "HD Ready" or "Full HD". Look for a resolution that is 1280 x 720 or higher and also ensure that the TV has at least one HDMI input that is HDCP compliant.
7. Does viewing on a HD TV connected to the HD PVR mean that I am watching High Definition content?
No. Only the content broadcast in HD on the HD channel can be viewed in HD(1). Although the HD PVR is capable of up-scaling normal television content, it does not deliver true HD
for any channel other than those broadcast in HD. Please remember to correctly connect the HD PVR to your HD TV. MultiChoice recommends the use of a MultiChoice Accredited Installer
for all HD PVR installations.
(1) Requires correct connection (HDCP compliant HDMI) between the HD PVR and HD receiver.
8. Which is the best HD TV to buy - LCD or Plasma?
LCD stands for Liquid Crystal Display. The picture on a LCD screen is subjectively a little more artificial than on a Plasma screen. However, an LCD has superior brightness and the
matt screens make them better suited for viewing in daylight or a well-lit room. LCD screens also don't have a "burn in" problem. LCDs are usually all fully HD TV capable.
Plasma screens are perfectly flat. They produce a more natural picture than LCD screens. Their glass screens are more likely to reflect other light sources which may be distracting
and the driver electronics need to work harder at high altitudes, so purchase Plasma screens that are specifically designed to cope with high altitudes. All Plasma screens are designed
in widescreen. Unlike conventional TVs, they do not use electron beams and are therefore immune to the effects of magnetic fields. This means that you can place speakers close by without
compromising the picture quality. Do not purchase cheaper Plasma screens as they tend to be of a lower resolution (852 x 480) and are not capable of displaying proper HD TV.
Summary of pros & cons:
PLASMA
Screen Size
Plasma screens tend to be larger, with screen sizes up to around 71".
Weight
Are heavier than LCDs and should be wall-mounted by an installer.
Energy consumption
Plasma uses slightly more power than LCD screens.
Picture Quality
Plasmas tend to have deeper blacks and better contrast.
Burn
Plasma TVs are more susceptible to burn of static images however new technology has significantly reduced the effects.
High Altitude performance
High altitudes can affect the performance of plasma displays.
LCD
Screen Size
Generally up to 46". Larger sizes are less affordable.
Weight
LCDs weigh less and are easier to wall mount.
Energy consumption
Slightly less than Plasma screens.
Picture Quality
Older sets may have lower contrast ratio which is not as good at rendering deep blacks. New generation sets have higher contrast ratios which easily rival Plasma screens. LCD TVs reflect
very little light, allowing them to maintain levels in well-lit rooms.
Burn
This is not a problem with LCD screens, but they can suffer from dead pixels.
High Altitude performance
LCDs are not affected by high altitude.
9. Are you going to publish a list of compatible TVs on your website?
Although MultiChoice has tested the HD PVR with many of the HD TV brands available in SA, there are many new and imported models available making it impossible to provide an updated & accurate
list at all times.
If your TV is marketed as HD Ready and does not work with the HD PVR, we suggest that you check the components and / or contact the manufacturer of the TV for assistance. Please remember,
the HT TV needs a HDMI input which is HDCP compliant.
10. What are the different HD resolutions, which one does MultiChoice use for HD broadcasts and why?
Resolution is how much detail you can see on a screen. Today, the two HD resolutions available for broadcast are :
720 x 1280, progressive scanning, 50 frames per second (720p50)
1080 x 1920, interlaced scanning, 25 frames per second (1080i25).
The standard for the MultiChoice broadcast of HD content is 720p50, however, MultiChoice may from time to time broadcast in 1080i25.
At normal viewing distances, displays smaller than 127cm (50") do not generally benefit from a horizontal resolution higher than 720. The progressive scanning characteristic of 720p has a
significant advantage over interlaced for fast moving content like sport ie. smoothness of fast motion. Progressive scanning with 1080 horizontal lines (1080p) is currently not available for
broadcasting.
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HD Content - Overview
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11. What HD content is available?
Due to prohibitive costs of HD broadcasting, MultiChoice commenced HD broadcasts with a single HD channel, with content supplied by M-Net. The number of channels offered in HD will grow with time.
The M-Net HD channel is on channel 170 and broadcasts programming between 8am and 1am daily.
The channel is a mix of series, movies, wildlife documentaries, sporting action and once-off specials, such as music concerts. As a bonus, some of the programming - mainly movies, series and specials - will
also be available in surround sound. The M-Net HD schedule is not an exact replica of the ever-popular M-Net (channel 101) and contains a variety of programming from different M-Net channels , such as M-Net,
GO, M-Net Series, M-Net Action and M-Net Movies. M-Net HD on channel 170 will also boast exclusive material.
For full schedules and more information, visit www.mnet.co.za
12. Will I pay extra for HD content?
The HD channel has been added to the DStv Premium bouquet offering free of charge to those subscribers who have a HD PVR. MultiChoice reserves the right to introduce costs for HD content in the future.
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HD PVR - Product Overview
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13. What does the HD PVR offer?
The HD PVR allows you to view one channel, while recording two other channels simultaneously. Plus :
Record 150 hours of Standard Definition TV (almost double the SD PVR) or 50 hours of HD TV
Pause live TV programming
Rewind programming
Fast forward and slo-mo programming you have recorded
Access a 24 hour i-Plate
Surround Sound capability
*new* XtraView capability
The HD PVR also introduces a "Favourite Channels". If you select your favourite channels, you get :
A personalised TV Guide, listing the schedules for just those channels.
A personalised viewing environment (like the current bouquets on other decoders) which includes only your selected channels. This means when "surfing" through the channels, you only see the channels you have
selected, so no more hopping over unwanted or unavailable channels.
A Favourite Channels Grid - similar to the existing channel grid, but listing only the channels you selected, making it easier to tune between channels.
15. Will I pay extra to use the PVR functionality of the HD PVR?
The monthly cost for a single HD PVR is the DStv subscription for your selected package(s) ie. DStv Premium, DStv Compact, DStv Indian and / or DStv Portuguesa as well as a R60 access fee. The R60 access fee
is charged to access multiple channels simultaneously (be this for viewing or recording). Please note that enabling the PVR functionality does not necessarily give you access to the HD channel. The HD channel
is only available to DStv Premium subscribers.
16. What is the R60 access fee for?
The R60 access fee is charged to access multiple channels simultaneously (be this for viewing or recording).
17. Why isn't the HD PVR a dual view decoder?
The technology for a dual view HD PVR is not yet available at a cost which would make this product commercially viable. XtraView takes care of the second and in some cases, third viewing environment at no
additional subscription to what you currently pay for on the Dual View decoder or SD PVR.
18. Will MultiChoice introduce a dual view HD PVR in the future?
At present the hardware components in the PVR required to support both HD and Dual View are either not available or are so expensive that they would increase the price of the PVR to such an extent it would be
out of reach of the average subscriber. So for at least the next 2 years and probably longer, a dual view HD PVR will not be made available by MultiChoice. XtraView is able to offer HD PVR customers multiple
viewing environments in a very cost effective way. Please visit www.dstv.com to see full information on XtraView, including the options available to HD PVR customers.
19. When will a single view HD decoder be launched?
The HD technology is not yet at a cost where the introduction of a low end, single view decoder is commercially viable.
20. Is it true that there will be two different models of HD PVRs?
Yes, the HD PVR which launched the HD services in August 2008 is manufactured by Pace. A UEC manufactured HD PVR with the same features and specifications will also be launched. The recommended retail price
for both HD PVR decoders will be the same. The launch date for the UEC model is not yet confirmed.
21. What size hard drive does the HD PVR have?
The hard drive allows you to record up to 150 hours of Standard Definition TV (almost double the SD PVR capacity) or up to 50 hours of HD TV.
22. What is the "24 hour i-Plate"?
The i-Plate on the single view and dual view decoders have information for 2 programmes (ie. now & next). On the SD PVR, we've gone one better, as it lists information for 3 programmes (now, next, then).
The i-Plate on the HD PVR improves on this even more and has information on programming for the next 24 hours allowing you to easily browse the programming schedule and set recordings without leaving your favourite channel.
23. Does the HD PVR also have a 2 hour buffer?
Yes, the HD PVR does have a 2 hour buffer which is retained even when you view a recording, however the buffer is not retained when you change channels. This will change in the future.
24. Does the HD PVR come with a HDMI cable?
Yes, a 1.8m HDMI cable and audio/video cable are supplied with the HD PVR.
25. Do the existing remote controls work with the HD PVR?
No, the HD PVR uses a different protocol. A new remote control (with batteries) is supplied with the HD PVR. Your HD PVR remote control does however work on the SD PVR.
26. What are the outputs & inputs on the HD PVR? The HD PVR has the following outputs :
1 x HDMI (only source of HD)
1 x set AV (Red, white yellow)
1 x set YPbPr (Component)
1 x RF Out (F-type connector)
1 x SPDIF optical
1 x SPDIF coaxial
1 x TV SCART / RGB / S-Video, etc. available via menu options and adaptors (not supplied)
The HD PVR has the following inputs:
4 x LNB (F-type)
1 x RF IN (F-type)
Power socket (3 pin to figure 8)
The following connectors are for future use :
1 x eSATA
2 x USB 2.0
1 x Ethernet
27. Can I take a Decoder Care Contract for the HD PVR and what does it cost?
DCC is available for the HD PVR and costs R35 per month.
28. If I need to cancel my PVR subscription, can the HD PVR be used as a single view decoder?
Yes, the HD PVR can be used a single view decoder.
29. What is the warranty on the HD PVR?
If the decoder becomes faulty within 60 days of purchase, please return it to the point of purchase for a replacement. Please remember to take the proof of purchase with you. MultiChoice also offers a carry-in
repair warranty that is valid for 12 months from the date of purchase. (Please see the Product Warranty in the HD PVR Viewer's Guide for more information).
30. Does the HD PVR have series recording?
The HD PVR does not currently support series recording. This feature is on the roadmap but no dates have been committed to at this point. We finished exhaustive BETA testing of the series recording feature on
the SD PVR earlier in 2008 and the results of that need to be worked into a revised solution.
31. How do I set a time based recording?
You can do this from the Scheduled Recordings screen.
Press RED to access the Playlist, right arrow to the Scheduled Recordings screen and then press BLUE to set-up a time based recording.
32. Explain the safety net option for recording on the HD PVR :
When you schedule a recording, the HD PVR automatically adds 3 minutes to the beginning and 10 minutes to the end of the recording (as long as these extensions don't clash with other existing recordings).
You can change the default setting. To do this - press MENU, select Personalise, Edit Option 4.
The new setting will only take effect on recordings scheduled after you made the change, ie. recordings already scheduled retain the previous safety net settings.
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HD PVR vs the SD PVR
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33. What are the key differences between the current PVR (now known as the SD PVR) and the HD PVR?
SD PVR
HD PVR
View and record SD content
View and record SD and HD content
View 2, record 1 channel simultaneously
View 1, record 2 channels simultaneously
Record up to 80 hour of SD programming
Record up to 150 hours of SD programming (if recording only HD content, you can record up to 50 hours)
Pause Live TV for up to 2 hours
Pause Live TV for up to 2 hours
Rewind Live TV up to 2 hours
Rewind Live TV up to 2 hours or up to previous channel change
The buffer is cleared when you view a recording
The buffer is not cleared when you view a recording
i-Plate displays information for the next 3 programmes
i-Plate displays information for the next 24 hours of programming
Slow Motion playback
Slow Motion playback
Full TV Guide (including searches)
Personalised TV Guide (no searches)
No Favourite Channels functionality
Full Favourite Channels functionality
Trip over unwanted or unavailable channels when channel surfing
Create your own personalised bouquet with only your favourite channels
DStv on Demand (VOD) – launched 1 August
Not available (1)
Subtitles
Subtitles not available at launch (2)
Full interactive services (example : SuperSport Active, News24, Weather24) on TV1
SuperSport Active available now. Other interactive services will follow soon(3)
Multi Unit Dwelling installation support
NO support for Multi Unit Dwelling installations (2)
NO SaTCR (satellite channel router) support
SaTCR (satellite channel router) support
2 LNB inputs
4 LNB inputs
(1) Product offering and launch date still to be confirmed.
(2) These features will be added in the future.
(3) More interactive services will be added in the future.
34. Can the SD PVR be upgraded to receive the HD content?
No, it is not technically possible to upgrade the SD PVR to receive HD signals as the hardware does not have the correct technology to decode the HD signal. The SD PVR can only decode a Standard Definition (SD) signal.
35. Should I replace my current SD PVR with the HD PVR?
We recommend you keep your SD PVR and link it to the HD PVR using XtraView(1). This will give you PVR functionality in 3 separate viewing environments, and interactive services in two.
You will be able to view a different channel (live, from the buffer or playback) on 3 different TVs, while simultaneously recording four other channels!
The HD PVR Favourite Channels feature, the HD Channel (including widescreen with Dolby digital) will be available in one environment and you can even set different Parental Control levels for each decoder. Add to this
a combined recording capacity of 230 hours (2) and you are guaranteed to get so much more.
More great news - the only additional monthly cost (over and above your standard subscription) is the R60 access fee. In other words, you pay the same monthly subscription costs for a HD PVR + SD PVR combo, as you
would for the HD PVR or SD PVR on its own! A Decoder Care Contract (DCC) for each decoder is optional. (3) It is possible that your installation will need to be upgraded. (4) Please visit www.dstv.com for more info on XtraView
(1) XtraView is currently only available to DStv Premium, DStv Compact, DStv Indian and DStv Portuguesa subscribers in South Africa.
(2) The HD PVR can record up to 150 hours of SD content. If you only record HD content, the HD PVR has a recording capacity of 50 hours, ie. a minimum of 130 hours combined recording capacity.
(3) For more info on the Decoder Care Contract, visit www.dstv.com. The monthly DCC cost for the different XtraView decoders : 1110/ R20 per month, SD PVR / R35 per month, HD PVR / R35 per month.
(4) MultiChoice recommends the use of a MultiChoice Accredited Installer for all XtraView installations. A guide to installation prices is available on www.dstv.com. To find an accredited installer in your area, SMS your postal
code to 33936 (SMS cost R1.50).
36. What do I do with my existing decoder? (I have a 1110 decoder)
We recommend you keep your 1110 and link it to the HD PVR using XtraView(1) - allowing access to two different channels on two different TVs at the same time, whilst simultaneously recording two other channels!
PVR functionality, the HD Channel (including widescreen with Dolby digital) will be available in one environment, whilst Interactive services (including TV Guide and SuperSport Active) will be available in both. The HD PVR
Favourite Channels feature will be available in one environment, while the useful Title Search feature is available in the other. You can even have different Parental Control settings for each decoder.
More great news - the only additional monthly cost (over and above your standard subscription) is the R60 access fee. A Decoder Care Contract (DCC) for each decoder is optional. (2) It is possible that your installation will
need to be upgraded. (3)
(1) XtraView is currently only available to DStv Premium, DStv Compact, DStv Indian and DStv Portuguesa subscribers in South Africa.
(2) For more info on the Decoder Care Contract, visit www.dstv.com. The monthly DCC cost for the different XtraView decoders : 1110/ R20 per month, SD PVR / R35 per month, HD PVR / R35 per month.
(3) MultiChoice recommends the use of a MultiChoice Accredited Installer for all XtraView installations. A guide to installation prices is available on www.dstv.com. To find an accredited installer in your area, SMS your postal
code to 33936 (SMS cost R1.50).
37. What do I do with my existing decoder? (I have a Dual View decoder or a single view decoder other than the 1110)
You could use it at a holiday home, give it to a family member or sell it.
38. I am a DStv Compact / DStv Indian / DStv EasyView / DStv Portuguesa subscriber. Can I get a HD PVR and use it as a single view decoder? Can I use the PVR functionality?
Yes, you are able to get the HD PVR, however the HD channel is not included in the DStv Compact / DStv Indian / DStv EasyView or DStv Portuguesa subscription. The use of the PVR functionality costs the same as it does on the
current PVR, ie. R60.
Note
PVR functionality is not available to DStv Select subscribers, nor to DStv EasyView subscribers who pay annually.
The HD Channel is ONLY available to DStv Premium subscribers.
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HD PVR and XtraView
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XtraView is currently only available to DStv Premium, DStv Compact, DStv Indian and DStv Portuguesa subscribers in South Africa.
MultiChoice recommends the use of a MultiChoice Accredited Installer for all XtraView installations. Guide installation prices are available on www.dstv.com. To find an accredited installer in your area, SMS your postal code
to 33936 (SMS costs R1.50)
39. What other XtraView (1) decoders can be connected to the HD PVR?
Decoders
Independent Viewing Environments
Viewing Environments in which PVR functionality is available
Simultaneous Recordings
Recording Capacity (2)
Monthly Subscription + Access Fee (3)
HD PVR + 1110 - 2 1 2
150 Hours (2)
Base + R60
HD PVR + HD PVR - 2 2 4
300 Hours (2)
Base + R60
HD PVR + SD PVR - 3 3 3
230 Hours (2)
Base + R60
Please note - MultiChoice recommends the use of a MultiChoice Accredited Installer for all XtraView installations. A guide to installation prices and options is available on www.dstv.com. To find an accredited installer in your
area, SMS your postal code to 33936 (SMS costs R1.50)
40. If I have the SD PVR and HD PVR do I need a new smartcard for the SD PVR?
It is likely. To check that the SD PVR has the correct smartcard, press MENU, select Information, check Add2 Status. If the status reads "requires smartcard upgrade" follow the steps below :
Warning! If the correct smartcard swop procedure is NOT followed, you will lose access to all existing recordings on the SD PVR. To do the smartcard swop, take the SD PVR (with smartcard) to your nearest MultiChoice Branch or
Agent. On arrival, clearly request the XtraView / Add2 smartcard swop. Whoever assists you must confirm that your recordings are viewable with the new smartcard, before you leave our offices. If you are unable to go to a MultiChoice
Branch or Agent, please contact your nearest MultiChoice Accredited Installer. You will be charged R85 for the new smartcard, which will be reversed once XtraView is activated.
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HD PVR - Installations
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41. What installation is required for the HD PVR?
The HD PVR has 4 tuners and requires a four wire LNB installation, ie. the minimum requirement is a twin LNB. MultiChoice recommends that installation of the HD PVR is done by a MultiChoice Accredited Installer. To find an accredited
installer in your area, SMS your postal code to 33936 (SMS costs R1.50)
42. I'm using a communal dish and shared decoder to watch DStv (ie. each unit does not have their own separate decoder). Can I get the HD PVR?
Support for Multi Unit Dwelling installations is not currently available.
43. Will the HDMI connection from the HD PVR work on a HD monitor that only has DVI ports?
No. You need a HDMI to DVI converter. The audio needs to be connected separately as HDMI carries both digital video & audio signals, but DVI carries only digital video signals.
44. Will existing remote blasters work with the HD PVR?
Most remote blasters used by MultiChoice Accredited Installers and sold within the last year are compatible with both the 1110 and HD PVR remotes. Ellies are offering a software upgrade or trade-in on remote blasters bought within the
last year which do no work with the HD PVR. Please call Ellies directly for more info on this.
As we recommend that installation of the HD PVR is done by a MultiChoice Accredited Installer, we also suggest testing your existing equipment at that time.
45. Why does the HD PVR have 4 tuners, but only allow for viewing of 1 channel at a time?
One tuner is used for viewing of Live TV, two tuners are used for recordings and the fourth tuner is used for the download of EPG data. The fourth tuner will also be used to download VOD (video on demand) content at a later stage.
46. What are the restrictions in terms of performance if I don't have a twin LNB installation?
Unless the single feed is a SaTCR installation, the HD PVR will not work on a single feed, MultiChoice recommends that installation of the HD PVR is done by a MultiChoice Accredited Installer. To find an accredited installer in your area,
SMS your postal code to 33936 (SMS costs R1.50)
47. If I am getting a new installation, what size dish is recommended?
Although a 60cm dish has mostly been the normal size used to date, in order to "future proof" your installation, MultiChoice recommends a 90cm dish for new installations. MultiChoice recommends that installation of the HD PVR is done by a
MultiChoice Accredited Installer. To find an accredited installer in your area, SMS your postal code to 33936 (SMS costs R1.50)
48. How do I force a software upgrade via the front panel of my HD PVR?
Reset decoder by holding down the RESET button on the front panel for 5 seconds.
Wait for DL to be displayed.
Now press Standby.
Now press the UP arrow on the front panel.
Now press the DOWN arrow on the front panel.
Now press STANDBY on the front panel.
DO NOT interrupt the download, wait for normal video & audio to resume
49. Why do Tuner 2 and Tuner 3 not show signal strength?
The tuner signal strength is not exact and differs slightly from unit to unit. It also depends on your dish, LNB, cable type, cable length, connectors (and how well they were fitted), etc. As long as your signal quality is 100%, the decoder
should work correctly.
In addition, different tuners show different signal strengths, as they are usually tuned to different channels and the signal strength differs from transponder to transponder (a transponder carries a bunch of channels and MCA uses about 11
of them). So, depending to what channel the tuner is tuned, the signal strength is also different.
Tuners that are not being used tend to show no signal, so don't let that worry you.
If you want to test Tuner 2 and Tuner 3, get two recordings going and then check again.
We also suggest you check the signal strength by tuning to M-Net, Animal Planet, KYKNet and the HD channel (channel 170). If the signal strength is fine on these channels, the decoder should work correctly.
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HD PVR - Basic Troubleshooting
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50. My HD TV is only getting a 576p output from the HD PVR.
It is likely that that your decoder does not have the latest software. Please check software details and upgrade if necessary.
51. I can't download the latest software, the RED button does not appear on the DSD upgrade screen.
We suggest that you reboot the decoder (wait for video & audio to resume) and then try again (press MENU, select Advanced Options, enter 9949, select DSD upgrade, wait for RED button to display, then press RED and follow the on-screen instructions).
Do not interrupt the download and wait for video & audio to resume (the download could take up to 35 minutes).
52. My decoder is stuck on "channel scan in progress" on the front panel. How do I fix this?
It sounds likely that the decoder has lost the home network settings. To check this follow the steps below :
Press MENU, select Advanced Options, enter 9949, select Network Setup
Go to Home Network, check the following settings:
Network DStv IS7
LNB Power Controlled
LNB Mode Univ
LNB Lo Frequency 9750
LNB Hi Frequency 10700
If you have a SaTCR installation, the procedure is as follows :
Press MENU, select Advanced Options, enter 9949, select Network Setup
Go to Home Network, check the following settings:
Network Other
LNB Power Controlled
LNB Mode SatCR Universal
LNB Lo Frequency 9750
LNB Hi Frequency 0
Network Frequency 11594
Symbol rate 27500
FEC 5/6
Polarisation Vertical
53. Anything to do with queries relating to "funny" numbered channels :
If your normal DStv channels are not on their usual channels please check that you are on the latest software. If you are, please perform a rescan as this issue has been resolved in the latest software.
54. Why are my HD PVR recordings sometimes incomplete (ie. the last 5 minutes of the recording are missing)?
The HD PVR is reliant on the TV Guide data for successful recording, ie. the HD PVR uses the TV Guide date for the start and end of a recording and not the actual video playout.
55. Why is the surround sound audio on channel 170 lower than other channels?
This is a technical limitation and known issue.
56. Why are there no interactive service other than SuperSport Active (example : News, Weather) available on the HD PVR?
The HD PVR was released with pre-launch software in order to be available for the Olympics. As such, some features were removed to meet the timelines. These features will be added in a future release of
the software. SuperSport Active is
currently the only interactive service available.
57. Why does signal loss impact recordings on the HD PVR?
On the HD PVR, when there is signal loss, the recording is abandoned - but it is still listed in the Playlist (it will be an incomplete recording).
On the SD PVR, signal loss results in a partial loss of the recording, however the recording does resume once signal is restored.
The limitation in the HD PVR will be addressed in a future software release.
58. I can't seem to get Dolby Digital 5.1 via the HDMI connector.
At the moment, HDMI only supports stereo (including the HD channel, and MM1), where AC3 (Dolby Digital 5.1) is present. You can workaround this by using HDMI (either directly to panel or via amp) for video,
and use the SP/DIF connector (either optical or co-axial) to the amp to decode the Dolby Digital soundtrack on the amp.
The current state of HD PVR audio is:
SP/DIF: Co-Axial - Works perfectly with AC3 (DD) & stereo broadcasts (events).
SP/DIF: Digital Optical - Works perfectly with AC3 (DD) & stereo broadcasts (events).
RCA: Stereo or ProLogic (if broadcast)
59. Why doesn't the HD PVR support subtitles / hearing impaired subtitles?
The HD PVR has been released with pre-launch software in order to be available for the Olympics. As such, some features have been removed to meet the timelines. These features will be added in a future
release of the software.
60. Why does the programming info on the i-plate and the info in the TV Guide take so long to load?
This is a current limitation which will be addressed in the future.
61. On the SD PVR pushing the rewind button once, jumps back 10 seconds (ie. instant replay). Why does this not work the same way on the HD PVR?
Instant replay is available in Live TV and in Playback. If you do not have this feature on your HD PVR, it is likely that your decoder does not have the latest software.
Please check software details and upgrade if necessary.
62. Why does the TV Guide not have any searches or genres?
The HD PVR has, due to timelines, a much simpler TV Guide. Currently, there are no search facilities (ie. A-Z, theme search or 24 hours) and no genres. The TV Guide will get additional features in future
releases of the software.
63. Anything to do with problems coming out of standby :
There is no longer a problem with the decoder coming out of standby.
If your HD PVR does still have problems coming out of standby, it is likely that your decoder does not have the latest software. Please check software details and upgrade if necessary.
64. I have the SD PVR and HD PVR and my account is incorrect, I seem to have been double / triple billed :
If you have both the SD PVR and HD PVR on your account, please call MultiChoice to activate XtraView.
65. Why doesn't the HD PVR come with a detailed manual like the SD PVR?
The timelines for the user manual packed with the decoder prohibited us from including more info. We didn't have confirmation of what features would be available and did not want to mislead customers by
printing incorrect information.
There are two manuals available on our website (www.dstv.com) :
HD PVR Viewer's Guide (includes details on the remote control, how to schedule recording, ie. using the HD PVR)
HD PVR Decoder Menu Guide (includes details on the decoder menu and settings).
Customers can also visit the HD PVR forums on our website where there is a wealth of information, alternatively, send your query to
This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
66. Why do tuner 2 and tuner 3 show no signal?
These are the tuners which the HD PVR uses for recordings. Tuners 2 and 3 tend to show no signal when they are not in use. To check the signal, get two recordings going and check again.
67. No programme information
Please check the status of tuner 4. A reboot of the decoder may be necessary.
68. Help! my playlist is corrupt / Help! The recordings in my Playlist have been renamed as either "time based once" or "no name". The scheduled recordings have been renamed to "no name".
This is a known issue. You can still playback these recordings (ie. they work correctly), the only impact is to the titles and the information that appears onscreen. Our technical team are working on this
issue. Please accept our apologies for any inconvenience.
69. Help! All the recordings on the HD PVR have been deleted.
There is no longer a problem where recordings are all deleted and it is likely that your decoder does not have the latest software. Please check software details and upgrade if necessary.
PVR SD DECODER
SD PVR
The PVR revolutionises the television experience and the way you watch television.
The DStv SD PVR Decoder is a Personal Video Recorder and decoder in one. With your DStv SD PVR decoder you will be able to take control of your television.
Some of the exciting features of the DStv SD PVR decoder that you can look forward to include:
Record 80 hours of TV Programming
Pause live TV
Watch two channels and record a third channel at the same time
Rewind programming
Fast forward and slow-mo programming you have recorded
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