Types of DirecTV HD DVRs

DirecTV's HD package offers over 170 (as of July 2011) local, regional, national and premium HD channels, and adding the DVR service is one way to maximize the viewing options available with those channels. Features of DirecTVs HD DVR service include the ability to record up to 100 hours in HD (or 400 in SD, standard definition), record two channels at once while watching another previously-recorded show, view two channels on-screen simultaneously, fast-forward playback in 30 second intervals, and program the DVR remotely by computer or other capable wireless device.

The first type DirecTV offers is the DirecTV Plus HD DVR, a model designed to record and display both SD- and HD-resolution channels for use with a single HDTV. It delivers up to 1080p (progressive-scan) uncompressed HD video, Dolby Digital 5.1 channel surround sound digital audio, and provides the HDMI, component video and digital audio outputs necessary to send those signals to an HDTV and home theater receiver. It also offers access to 3D programming with a 3D-capable TV and enables access to the on-demand and pay-per-view titles available with DirecTV Cinema (when connected to a high-speed Internet connection).

The second type is the same DirecTV Plus HD DVR with the addition of DirecTV's Whole-Home DVR service. With this service, the DVR connects to up to 15 other HD DVRs or non-DVR HD receivers to allow DVR access from any of those receivers and pool the storage capacity of all DVRs in use while maintaining the single playlist. Whole-Home DVR adds the convenience of being able to record, manage recordings and watch programs in HD from any room with a connected HDTV and receiver. Additional charges both for the service and for each additional receiver will apply.

Another type of DVR, still in the field-testing stage as of July 2011, is the Home Media Center HD DVR. This DVR can also serve as the hub of the Whole-Home DVR service, but adds the ability to stream content to TVs and other devices with RVU (remote viewing) capability, meaning those TVs can access the DVR without being connected to an additional DVR or receiver. The Home Media Center DVR also has an expanded capacity, storing up to 200 hours in HD, recording up to 5 channels at once, and streaming recordings to three separate receivers at one time. Contact DirecTV to inquire about current availability for this DVR.