Category Archives: Equipment

Shaw Direct Equipment and everything related.

Equipment, Technical Tips

The new HD Guide is here!

12 Comments

Introducing: the new HD Guide!

The new guide interface is more intuitive, delivering an industry-leading customer experience. The HD Guide user interface offers many improvements when compared to the SD Guide, including: faster navigation, redesigned menus to ensure optimal usability and enhanced shortcuts/preference functionality. The HD Guide is available for 6XX series receivers only. Legacy receivers (including 5XX HD receivers) will not be updated.

HD Guide

With the launch of HD Guide, two features on the 6XX series receiver have been retired:

  • Interactive Weather Application.
  • Instant Pay-Per-View (IPPV) ordering: the IPPV order feature has been removed from the 6XX series. The phone line will remain for caller ID only. IPPV will continue to be available on all legacy receivers.

There are six new major features introduced with the HD Guide:

1.  Customizations

Three different font sizes are available, controlling the number of rows of data in the guide, plus two different program colouring options. These settings can be changed at any time by pressing the following: Options // Preferences // User Settings & Appearance.

2.  MiniTune & MiniPlay

  • MiniTune: You can press the ‘B’ button from the guide to immediately tune the video window to the selected channel, while maintaining your current position in the menu.
  • MiniPlay: For customers with an HDPVR 630, MiniPlay functions the same way as MiniTune, but within your list of recorded programs. You can press ‘B’ to begin playback of the selected program in the video window, while maintaining your current position in the PVR list.

3.  PPV Store

A new way of browsing available PPV movies! Selecting ‘PPV Search’ from the Pay-Per-View (PPV) menu bar allows you to:

  • Narrow results by genre.
  • Show clear ordering instructions and ID above the movie description.
  • Be notified that the purchase has been successful once it’s been ordered through the IVR.
  • Purchased program are identified by a checkmark in the guide, PPV Store, and ‘Upcoming Airings’ screens.

4.  Smart PVR Technology

Our HDPVR has an overlooked feature: the ability to look for the episode on multiple channels. This feature, in conjunction with the fact that Shaw Direct carries channels from every Canadian time zone, effectively eliminates recording conflicts.

  • The HDPVR allows you to record from ‘HD only’, ‘SD only’, or ‘All channels’, rather than a single channel.
  • Descriptive information written in user-friendly language.
  • You can also edit your recording preferences by pressing ‘Enter’ on the program and selecting the new menu option.
  • When customizing a particular recording event, you can now access a ‘More Channels’ selector to change the channel you want the recording to take place on.

5.  Multi-User and Single User Modes

Multi-User Mode: Up to eight users can have their own preferences applied at login, in addition to parentally-defined permissions, locks, and restrictions.

  • The current profile can be changed at any time by pressing the FAV button on the remote. Each profile can have a unique PIN.
  • Users can be copied to a USB key for transfer to another satellite receiver.

Parental restrictions that can be customized for each user include:

  • Ratings locks
  • Channel locks
  • Access to Adult content
  • Ability to order free VOD titles
  • Daily VOD purchase limit ($ value)
  • Auto-logout duration
  • PVR Permissions (ability to schedule new recordings, delete existing recordings, etc.)

Preferences that can be customized for each user include:

  • Onscreen and audio language
  • Closed Captions display and settings
  • Descriptive Video
  • Font size and program colouring style
  • Unsubscribed channels in Guide (show or hide)
  • Caller ID notifications (not available on the HDDSR 600)
  • Automatic prompt to delete recordings

Single User Mode: It uses the same approach as before, wherein a single set of restrictions is applied consistently and unlocked individually on an ad-hoc basis. While Multi-User mode generally does not present a PIN challenge upon encountering locked content, Single-User mode does.

  • When migrating from SD Guide with the Parental Controls enabled, you will be placed into this mode by default.
  • You can switch between Single and Multi-User modes whenever you want. If set, a PIN is required to make this change.

6.  Notification Bar

The Notification Bar replaces the ‘Alert’ (!) icon used in the SD Guide and will notify you of Caller ID, PPV purchases, reminders or auto-tunes, dual recordings, and more. It also displays the signal strength, Internet connectivity status (for VOD), HDD space (HDPVR only) and number of active reminders.

Press the ‘Down’ arrow while watching TV to show the notification bar.

Other enhancements:

  • The A, B and C buttons on the remote control serve as shortcuts in a number of different windows – try them out!
  • New ways to search for content: Keyword Search and Category Search. Press Menu // Search to see the different categories.
  • Redesigned Video on Demand store.

Now go on and play with your new HD guide!

HD Guide 2

*met

Equipment

Anik G1 Upgrades

16 Comments

Shaw Direct’s third satellite – Anik G1 – went live on May 29, 2013. This has enabled us to add tons of new and exciting channels in both standard and high definition! We’re also very proud to say that we now carry the most HD channels in Canada: over 210.

So, what exactly do you need to access the great new Anik G1 channels? You’ll need an xKu LNBF installed on your dish, and a 6XX-series receiver (the Essential HDDSR 600, Advanced HDDSR 605, or Advanced HDPVR 630).

In order to help you figure out if you’re G1-ready, we’ve added a special channel so you can find out exactly what you need. To get started, turn to channel 988; once you’re here, press INFO and you’ll see one of four messages:

988 - Quad + 00.FE - Info

This means that you’re using one of our older receivers, and have an older style LNBF. If this is the case, you can contact us to arrange an LNBF upgrade and to look into getting a new receiver (or more) so you’ll be able to enjoy our new channels.

988 - Quad + 6XX - Info

If you see this message, then you’ve got the right receivers, but will need a new LNBF. Contact us to arrange an upgrade for your LNBF.

receiver

This message means that you’ve got the correct LNBF, but will need a different receiver to access the new channels. Contact us to find out about getting a new receiver.

988 - xKu + 6XX - Info

If this is the message you’re getting, then you’re already set to start watching the new channels right now!

If you have more than one receiver in your home, we recommend checking channel 988 on all of them to see what the status is for each one.

In the event that you do need an upgrade to your LNBF, we can either have an installer go out to put it in for you, or if you’re in an area that doesn’t have a local installer, we can have a new LNBF shipped out to you.

*rg

Equipment

600-Series Receivers – February 2013 Software Update

14 Comments

Starting on February 12 (for HDPVR 630 units) and February 18 (for HDDSR 600/605 units), Shaw Direct will be deploying software version 09.15.  Once targeted (as seen on line I in OPTIONS 4-7), your receiver will automatically update at around 2:10AM local time.  It is not possible to force the update if you have not been targeted.

The overall look and feel is unchanged with this download, with the exception of updating branding.

This release provides increased VOD speeds, significant PPV enhancements, updated Closed Captions decoding and improved stability.  Prior to 09.15, the last software download was 08.26 in late October 2012.

09.15 Release Highlights

Overall Stability Improvements

  • General updates related to stability/reliability to reduce the chances of the receiver becoming “frozen”
  • If an issue is encountered that the unit is unable to resolve, a reboot may occur automatically to restore normal operation.

Shaw Direct On Demand (VOD) Dual Streaming & Usability Updates

  • Network and streaming drivers have been rewritten to enhance network throughput Speed Test - Results (GL)and VOD streaming performance.
  • A substantial increase in average speeds has been experienced with our Field Trial and Employee Trial groups.
  • If you previously had unexpectedly low Speed Test results, or issues streaming during local peak usage, an improvement should be seen with this release.
  • Unsubscribed content on VOD should display “grey” consistently, rather than sometimes giving a W4 error.

Shaw Direct On Demand (VOD) Adult Content

  • Support has been added for Adult content.  Adult content is found in a separate VOD menu, which is hidden by default.  A variety of Parental Control options are available to further limit access to this content.
  • To enable access to the Adult VOD store, Parental Controls must be enabled.  Then, press D to access the VOD menu bar, scroll to “VOD Settings”, and enter your password.  Change “Adult VOD” to “Enabled”.  Exit the menu, and press D again.  You’ll see a new button in the middle of the menu bar labelled “Adult”.
  • All Parental Control options (including Purchase Limit) will also apply to Adult content.
  • As with Adult PPV Content:
    • There is no free preview period on Adult VOD content
    • Coupons do not apply to Adult VOD titles
    • Adult VOD content features discrete billing.

PPV Order Enhancements

  • PPV programs now feature an “Order ID” in the Guide.  You can use this number to PPV - IPG with Order IDquickly place your order via the automated phone system (1-866-782-7778).
  • Once your receiver gets the order, the “!” alert icon will appear.  Pressing ENTER will display the Purchase History screen, which will list details of the title you ordered.  The “$” sign will also appear in the Guide on the title you purchased.
  • You must still setup an auto-tune, recording, or remember to tune in when the PPV starts.
  • If you didn’t receive confirmation of the purchase and the title doesn’t appear in Purchase History, use the “receiver refresh” option via the automated phone system or Self Serve to send the purchase through again.
  • In alignment with industry and studio standards, PPV movies recorded on the HDPVR 630 will be available for unlimited viewing for 48 hours, after which the title will automatically expire.

External HDD Updates

  • Once paired, eSATA hotplug is now supported.  However, unplugging your external HDD while it is connected is still not recommended. (Note that on initial pairing, you must still reboot the receiver to initiate the connection).
  • Units with a large number of recordings stored on an external drive should see improved performance after bootup, in the PVR List, and with the playback of recent recordings.

This release also updates the Shaw Direct logo to reflect the new brand launched in late Fall.

*mk

Equipment

Fixing the “Subscription is Required” Message

Have you ever had a message appear on your screen that says “a subscription is required to view this program,” but you know it’s a channel you should receive? If you have, it probably looked something like this:

 

17_subreq

Sometimes this happens because it’s a channel you’ve just had added to your services, or because there’s been a power outage, or perhaps your receiver has been off for awhile and has lost authorisation. If this is something you’re experiencing, as long as the light on the front of your receiver is not red, there are two easy steps you can take to try and restore the channel without having to call in!

 

1)      In a lot of cases, your receiver just needs to be reminded of what channels it should be providing you with. To do this, you can send a “refresh” to your receiver either by logging in to your Self Serve account, or by calling our automated phone line (1.888.554.7827).

17_selfserveIf you use Self Serve, after you have logged in, look along the left-hand side of the page for “Receiver Refresh.” This will be near the bottom of the list. Click this, and you will be taken to a page explaining the process. Click “submit” to send the refresh to all of your receivers. It may take up to 15 minutes to process.

If you use our automated phone line, after selecting your preferred language, press 1 to select that you have a current Shaw Direct account, 3 to activate a new receiver or refresh existing services, and then 2 to refresh your services. Now press either 1 if you are calling from the main phone number registered to your account, or 2 if you’re calling from any other number (you’ll then be prompted to enter your main phone number). Once you’ve completed this, a refresh will be sent to all receivers on your account. Again, this may take up to 15 minutes to process.

2)      If you’re still missing your channel, try an AC reset on your receiver. To perform an AC reset, unplug the receiver from its power source, and then unscrew the satellite connection. Let it sit for about a minute, screw the satellite connection back in, and then plug it back into the power. It should manually turn back on after this, but if it doesn’t after about a minute, you may need to manually turn it back on. You will probably be missing your guide information at this point, but if you leave the receiver on one channel and don’t look through the guide for 10 to 15 minutes, this information will reload.

The above process will resolve most minor issues with your receiver(s), but if you’re still having troubles give us a shout and we’ll help get everything sorted out!

You can also learn how to hide unsubscribed channels from the guide, here:

*rg

Equipment

ReadyNet Powerline Bridge

If you’ve been curious about Shaw Direct On Demand, but aren’t able to connect your receiver to the Internet because it’s too far away from your router, we’re excited to let you know about the ReadyNet Powerline Bridge!

16_readynetThe ReadyNet Powerline Bridge allows you to convert any electrical outlet in your home into an Internet connection. Each kit comes with two adapters, two Ethernet cables, and an installation CD. Simply connect one adapter to your home router and a power outlet, and then connect the other adapter to your 600-series receiver and a nearby power outlet. As soon as this is completed, you can explore the vast Shaw Direct On Demand library and enjoy your favourite titles!

Once the first bridge is installed, the router connection will be established; if you need more than one additional Internet connection, you can just get a second ReadyNet kit for another two connections. The ReadyNet Powerline bridge sells for $49.99 (taxes extra), and as an added bonus, you get a coupon for eight free regular Shaw Direct On Demand titles just for connecting your receiver to Shaw Direct On Demand (to a maximum value of $7.99 each).

The bridge creates an Internet signal that will pass through your home’s circuit breaker without any issues, can support a bandwidth of up to 200 Mbps, and offers 128-bit AES encryption to ensure the security of your data.

If you’re interested in ordering a ReadyNet Powerline Bridge, you can find them in our online store. If you have any questions for us, please ask in the comments below!

*rg

Equipment

LNBF

15_lnb
Shaw Direct’s quad LNBF is on the left, and the xKu LNBF is on the right.

When your dish receives signal from the satellites in orbit, the signal must be converted
into something your receiver can unscramble. The device that is used to accomplish this is called a “low noise block-amplifier feedhorn,” or LNBF. This is positioned at the end of the dish support arm. There are a few different types of LNBFs available, but there are two main ones we currently use: a quad LNBF, or xKu LNBF.

The LNBF receives the raw signal directly from our satellites – Anik F1R, Anik F2, and soon Anik G1 – and amplifies the signals. It then changes the frequency before the signals make it to your receiver. It will split the signal up into different polarization and frequency.

15_waves
This is an example of how the waves travel from the satellite to your dish.

Shaw Direct uses two polarities for our service – horizontal and vertical, which both require a different electric voltage to activate (10.5 to 14.2 volts for vertical, and 15.2 to 21.0 volts for horizontal). Each polarity has a different range of electromagnetic wave frequencies that all of the channels are transmitted over. Channels are “stored” on areas of the satellite called “transponders,” each of which has a unique frequency.

As we currently have two satellites in orbit, a quad LNBF will allow for the four polarities to be received (namely the horizontal and vertical on Anik F1R, and the horizontal and vertical on Anik F2). When our third satellite is launched, we’ll need to use the new xKu LNBFs to receive the extra two polarities from Anik G1.

While “quad” refers to the number of polarities that can be received, “xKu” refers to the extended Ku-band that Anik G1 will use. The normal Ku-band that Anik F1R and F2 use is a portion of the electromagnetic spectrum in the microwave range of frequencies. The extended Ku-band just uses a slightly larger spectrum than Ku.

If you’re ever wondering if your LNBF is working correctly, there are a few simple things you can do to find out. We always want to make sure that you’re able to receive channels from both of our current satellites, and each polarity, so you can check out the following channels:

Satellite Polarity Classic Channel Number Advanced Channel Number
Anik F1R Vertical 299 299
Anik F1R Horizontal 300 058
Anik F2 Vertical 350 070
Anik F2 Horizontal 700 700

You might not be subscribed to all of those channels, but the front panel of your receiver will tell you what you need to know. If you have one of our 6XX-series receivers, look for a little red light; if it’s on, your receiver isn’t getting signal for that channel. If you have any of our other receivers, look for a light shaped like a tiny satellite dish; if it’s red, you have no usable signal.

Once you’ve checked, you can use your results to help figure out the issue. If you’re missing both channels from Anik F1R or F2, both vertical channels, or both horizontal channels, it’s possible that you may need a replacement LNBF. If this is the case, give us a shout and we will be happy to help you!

*rg

Equipment

600-Series Receivers – Software Update

2 Comments

If you own a HDDSR 600, HDDSR 605, or a HDPVR 630, your receiver should have downloaded our most recent software, version 08.26. To check if you have received the download, you can go into your Options menu > 4 > 7 and look at line H. If this says 08.26, you are good to go with the below changes!

While the overall look and feel of your interface will remain the same, we have added in some new features and have dramatically changed your On Demand experience!

For all 600-series models, you should notice the following changes:

Shaw Direct On Demand Interests Menu Revamp

  • We have completely redesigned our Interests Menu to make it even easier for you to browse through our 4000 + titles available through Shaw Direct On Demand. This is a direct result of user feedback!
    • Now, in the first column, you select whether you’re looking for Movies, TV shows, Music or your Premium subscription titles.
    • In the second column, you are now able to select the channel or network the title is provided by.
    • With the third column, you are still able to search by genre or other filters.
  • This layout separates content in a more logical manner, providing you with the results you were looking for in less keystrokes.
  • Be sure to check out the hundreds of titles that are available at no extra cost with your subscription! Any titles that are included with a network that you are not subscribed to will appear grey, just as you’re used to in your guide.

Other Shaw Direct On Demand Enhancements

  • Other improvements have been made to your Shaw Direct On Demand experience, such as faster rewind and fast forward response, connectivity improvements, more consistent display of season and episode information under a specific TV show, and the ability to order in both HD and SD.

Multi-Audio Selections

  • Some specific TV programs have additional audio tracks available, such as descriptive video (DVS) or another language. This is used to ensure accessibility for all of our customers. When available, you will see the headphones icon (as shown) in the info banner.
  • To select a different audio track, simply hit the ‘Source’ button on your remote and select from the list displayed in the top left hand corner
  • Your default audio preference (as set in Options > 4 > 1) will be restored once you change the channel.

For HDPVR 630 users:

External Hard Drive Support

  • You are now able to connect an external eSATA hard drive to increase your HDPVR 630 recording capacity by up to 2.0 TB! That’s equivalent to over 1000 SD hours, or 300 HD hours!
  • External hard drives must be connected via eSATA, must be externally powered, and cannot be over 2.0 TB. For the most reliability, the drive should also be rated for PVR/DVR usage.
  • For complete information on adding an external hard drive to your current HDPVR 630, please take a look here.

If you have any questions about this recent update or about your receiver in general, feel free to leave us a comment and ask!

*kg