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Gonzo42's avatar
Gonzo42
Explorer
Oct 21, 2016

Report on Dish "DVR"

Dish is now selling a 1 TB hard drive for use as a DVR. I bought one for my VIP211z, and it was a POS right out of the box. Yes, it would record, but it stopped every 5 seconds or so on replay.

After several conversations with DISH and Camping World, I found I had to return it to the manufacturer, which is Seagate Technologies in Rancho Domingo.

Navigating their website was a nightmare and after several attempts I was able to get an RMA. I did have some delay in getting it shipped out, but in less than two weeks I received a replacement.

The replacement is outstanding in performance and is very useful for when I can't watch the news live.

I built a new shelf in my RV for the receiver, DVR, and video switch, plus a small inverter, because I also upgraded the tiny OEM TV to a 28" flat screen LED TV. I'm happy.


Oh, one other thing. When I first called dish for the software upgrade to the receiver and to pay the one-time charge of $40.00, I got the big run-around about having to pay $10.00/month. I argued that they advertise the one-time charge but didn't agree until I threatened to cancel my contract and go elsewhere.

Then it was suddenly, "Oh, yeah, no problem". Their marketing practices suck.
  • afrescopXx's avatar
    afrescopXx
    Explorer
    Oct 21, 2016
    I have found Dish's customer service depends on the manner by which you contact them. I try to always contact Dish via the chat feature. No issues on the road. They do what needs to be done quickly and efficiently.

    BTW: I bought a 1TB Western Digital HD for use as the DVR. It has worked well for two seasons of bumping down the road. Dish unlocked both of the ViP211k receivers in our MH for the same $40.
  • Dutch_12078's avatar
    Dutch_12078
    Explorer II
    Oct 21, 2016
    Our WD 2TB "My Book" EHD, bought on Amazon, has traveled nearly 50,000 miles in two RV's so far with no problems. We used it with our previous Dish VIP211K, and now it's happily serving our Hopper w/Sling, expanding the built-in DVR capacity. I also prefer using the Dish online chat system instead of voice contact for customer service issues, rare as they have been for us. I primarily use it to change our service address as we move around.
  • Bumpyroad's avatar
    Bumpyroad
    Explorer
    Oct 21, 2016
    IIRC I just had a one time $40 DVR charge when I used one of my standard computer hard drives.
    bumpy
  • jorbill2or's avatar
    jorbill2or
    Explorer II
    Oct 21, 2016
    Using a standard 1gig small hard drive from amazon 55$ ( one on my 211k and one on my 211z). Dish Says they may not work without outside power but mine work great with just the USB connection powered by the tuner alone
    One call on initial set up ( make sure your dealing with the RV dept) and the rep actually activated both receivers for 1 40$ charge
    Changing locals , I only use chat and have a script that I change to the local address I want to use that I paste into the chat box. Other than typing" thank you "After they change the local address in 5 min tops, that's all I've ever needed ... no problems
    I limit my verbal contact to "0" if possible.the phone service folks are unreliable and not aware of RV needs in many cases.
  • jorbill2or's avatar
    jorbill2or
    Explorer II
    Oct 21, 2016
    My experience has been small laptop sized drives , in my case a toshiba 1g in a sealed case with no other avail power input but the USB, works on both the K and the Z. Guess I'm just lucky? Or YMMV

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