DigitalStream DHR-8205 FAQ Thread ( + DHR-8203U and DHR-8206U)

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AVF DigitalStream DHR-8205U FAQ Thread

Covers DHR-820xU models (and probably DHP-8100U)

FAQ List Part 1

1. How do I Upgrade my Firmware ?

Go to UPGRADE
MIT London Ltd.

Standard Upgrade M3.51, M3.57, 4.11, 4.12 etc. . . .
Download UpdateName.zip and unzip to the root of a USB Stick - Follow standard Menu Method instructions

USB stick must be FAT32 format.
Use Front USB for ease.

FAQ.1 - More Detailed Version
After Update from M3.00 (first Factory installed Firmware)
please do a Factory Reset
MENU > OTHERS > Maintenance > Restore Default [PIN-0000] - YES/NO
(BLUE Highlight is Selected Option)​

Advice is now not to do a Full Version Update unless specifically instructed to do so.

Full Version Update (FVU) M4.03 (M4.02)
Larger Zip File. Up to 11 Files are downloaded in a .zip file.
These files have to be placed in the root of a USB Stick

You then have to follow the FVU Rear USB Method
see FAQ #19 for full details and pictures


2. I have no signal to my TV when DS DHR is in Standby !

The Low Power (Power Saving Mode) Standby has no Aerial Loop Through. This is a hardware function.
The Default Normal Standby allows RF Aerial Loop Through.
You can use Low Power and an Aerial Y Splitter (about £1.30 from Amazon)
MENU > PREFERENCES > Power Management > Power Saving Mode in Standby - ON/OFF

3. How do I copy SD TV program recordings to my PC ?

professorhat's invaluable Guide - Click

3.57 only SD programs recorded on the DHR may be exported.
4.02 HD and SD programs can be exported.
HD is encrypted for playback only on a DHR machine (and possibly DHP untested).
External HDD must be 160GB or larger and will be formatted to XFS by the DHR​

4. Where do I get technical help and report problems ?

MIT London Ltd. is the UK Technical Support company.

Contact Detail
Service Help Desk: 0208 391 9806
Fax: 0208 397 4497

Contact MIT - Details and eMail Form

For Upgrades
MIT London DHR-850xU Upgrade


Official FAQ
MIT London DHR-850xU FAQ
Note: Some items are out of date / not applicable !​


5. USER MANUAL


6. REVIEWS
01. In Depth User Review with lots of pictures

What Hi-Fi? Sound and Vision - Freeview HD PVR - Digital Stream DHR8205U


FORUM FAQ

7. USB stick is not recognised by DS
This can happen with some types of USB sticks. To stand best chance of it being recognised the USB stick must be USB2.0 certified
8. Info Banner stays on screen too long
Use "Exit" button to close any on-screen GUI items instantly
9. Channel Change after entering the channel number is too slow
For instant channel changes enter the channel number e.g. 50 for BBC One HD then press "OK" button.

The DS has a wait-time built in to ensure the user has enough time to enter channel numbers on the remote. For example: you enter 1 it will then wait in case you want to enter another digit (you may be typing in a channel number in the range 10 to 19), and again if say 11 was entered it then would wait for a 3rd digit in case a channel number in the range 110 to 119 was being entered.
10. Does the HDMI output 5.1 surround sound ?
YES - From 4.12
No 3.57 > 4.11. The HDMI only carries 2 channel stereo, to get Dolby Digital 5.1 the SPDIF Digital output must be used.
11. KNOWN LIMITATIONS/ISSUES/BUGS
01. If a program is part of a series link then a single recording instance of the program can't be cancelled while in progress or removed without removing the whole series link.

02. Recording are interuppted if "Automatic Standby" is enabled (see post http://www.avforums.com/forums/13446594-post270.html). Workaround - disable "Automatic Standby" and report issue to MIT, they are aware but if more users that report this it maybe given a higher priority in being fixed.

Now Fixed.

FORUM HOW TO's

12. How to play multiple recordings back to back
Credit to daveh48 for pointing this out

From MEDIA select [GREEN] the multiple recordings you wish to watch then use [FUNC+] and choose "Play Selected Items"​

12A. How to reduce Fan Noise

01. (Unofficial !) Slacken off the 4 screws holding the fan. Just loosen them slightly to de-locate the fan from the case and reduce case resonance. One 360° turn per screw then push the screws to position the fan away from the case back.

02. Install the latest Update (3.57+). This will change the fan behaviour so that it is only on when the HDD, or CPU, is hot.​

14. Where is the Change-Log for the Updates ?

There is a PDF with the Change-Log for the latest Updates (currently EoJ and EoA and EoD and EoM)
on the MIT London website
MIT London Ltd. Upgrade

or it is listed below
http://www.avforums.com/forums/pvrs...-thread-dhr-8203u-dhr-8206u.html#post13529021


15. Copy To and Move To ? in the MEDIA List FUNC+ Menu

You can make a Directory eg. FILMS
MEDIA > FUNC+ > Others > New Folder

Move To to move recordings into a directory. (doesn't add any space requirement.)

Copy To is used with an external drive (160GB+ Formatted by the DHR to XFS)
Currently only SD program recordings are allowed to be exported but the next release will add HD export. The HD programs will be encrypted for playback only on DS machine.
(professorhat's Invaluable Guide is FAQ 3)​

16. Some Useful Links and Images

Reviews

Older threads:
Part 1 - 978 Posts
Part 2 - 957 Posts

Misc:

Images
Post #13 Below

Remote control:

Rear Panel

Some other images (thanks go to XS Items)

FORUM FAQ

17. How do I set a Series Recording Reservation ?
- Pressing the remote control Record button whilst in EPG does not give the Series Recording option !

With a program highlighted in the EPG using the Record button will set a recording reservation for only that single instance of the program in the EPG.

To set a Series Recording Reservation press the OK button instead and you'll be given two options "Reserve Single" & "Reserve Series", select the "Reserve Series" option.​

18. Can I stop playback of a file from starting again when it gets to the end ?

Yes, you can turn OFF the Repeat Function.

While playing a file hit the [Repeat] Button and this will Toggle the Repeat Mode - All / Off / 1
(Off = No Icon - Top Right of Transport Banner)
(See p22 and p24 of the User Manual (PDF) for more options)​

19. What is the Full Version Update Method and what happens ?

Do Not Use unless specifically instructed to do so.
This is the FVU 4.03 (4.02) Combined AVF-Method and Pictures
see - FAQ Post #17

20. Will the DS DHR Auto Switch my TV to the correct HDMI input ?

Probably not. The DS is not HDMI CEC equipped so it probably won't supply the switch signal.

- Some Beta testers have reported that Panasonic Viera TVs did Auto switch to the DS when 4.02 is loaded. Use HDMI2 if you don't want Panasonics to switch.
- Some don't find this a help ! Some do ! !​

21. OMG ! - I just used the Menu to set HDMI output and now I have a BLACK SCREEN ! ! ! What can I do ?

It's OK - You can use the V.FORMAT Button on the Remote to cycle through the available output modes and the Front Panel gives you an indication of the current mode.​

22. New user tips. The BikeButt Collection - Thread 3 #838
Collected from DS Master Thread Parts 1 - 3

See Below - Post #22 HERE

23. - Please Read The Manual


24. How do I find my Transmitter(s) and Channel Numbers for MUX ?

The 2 Best Sites are . . .
i. Digital UK - Postcode checker
PostCode + House Number + Trade View

ii. UKFree.TV - My FreeView
PostCode + Try the different Display: Views - eg. Terrain and Signal Strength

AND

iii. http://www.wolfbane.com/cgi-bin/tvd.exe?




25. USB Sticks !

PREPARING USB MEMORY STICKS FOR SOFTWARE UPDATES by JeffD

General Info see FAQ #25 Below


26. I am having reception issues ! What can I do ?

For those with reception issues
For Full Guide see FAQ #26 Below

1. Confirm what transmitter you are using with:

Find out how to receive Freeview and Freeview HD | ukfree.tv - independent free digital TV advice

etc. . .​

27. How do I get the Service List and EPG to show just my Favourite Channels ?

4.02+

See Post #27 HOW TO USE FAVOURITES - by JeffD
for Full Method and Pictures including How To Rename your Favourite List(s)

Assuming you have a Favourite Group setup first (or maybe just want to use a Radio-Only Service List and/or EPG)

Viewing any Channel - Press [OK]
Service List is Displayed
Press [<] or [>] (LEFT or RIGHT) to go to eg. Favourite 1
Select a Channel [OK]
The EPG and Service List are now in this Favourite 1 View
[P+] and [P-] will also cycle only these channels.​


28. How to Check Your Tuners

METHOD: See FAQ #28 Below​

30. Backup + Restore Schedule and Channels
For Method see FAQ 30 Below​

31. UPDATE VERSIONS + USER Manuals
For Downloads see FAQ 31 Below​

32. AUDIO Clipping - Limiter Issue - HD 5.1 Downmix
INTERIM FIX

4.11.r8430-FVU (27 Apr 2011) - 4.11.r8430-AudioPatch-FVU.zip

Full Details Below FAQ #32
 
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FAQ List - Part 2


33. Is it possible to rename the Favourites Lists so they're not just listed as Favourites 1, Favourites 2 etc... Id like to name them something like 'Childrens' 'plus 1 channels' etc. . .

YES (Full Method and Pictures now in FAQ 27 Above)

[MENU] > INSTALLATION > Edit Services > Edit Favourite List

Focus (Blue) in the Favourite List : [Func+] > Rename Group
Right [>] button to get cursor into Name Area if you want to edit an existing name rather than just replace all the current name.

[OK] when renamed each as desired.​

Edit other Favourite Groups using [BLUE] Button or from [Func+] Pop-Up Menu

When Finished
[BACK] > Pop-Up : Save Changes : Yes/No (Highlight choice is BLUE)​



34. How many Recording Reservations can I set in the Schedule ?

eMail confirmation from MIT states that the DS has NO restrictions on the number of timer reservations that can be set.

However they say that response may become sluggish with a huge number of timers set.

They don't specify what number they regard as HUGE though.
Ref. Capt.K

35. Is it OK to upgrade from Ver 3.57 straight to the latest 4.11

Yes. (short answer)

Long answer . . . see FAQ #35




36. How is System Logging actually done ?

How to use System Logging
see FAQ #36

37. AVI Support from Firmware 4.12+
From Update EoJune 2011 - 4.12 there is built in AVI Media support
See Below FAQ #37

38. :dd:5.1 Support over HDMI from Update 4.12+
From Update EoJune 2011 - 4.12 there is :dd:5.1 Support over HDMI
See Below FAQ #38

39. I had a problem with my Samsung TV after the 411 update.
The HDMI signal was only found when the box was booted with the TV turned on.
Anything that caused the output res to change, or if a different input was selected then the negotiation was lost which prevented the TV from finding a signal from the DS until the DS was rebooted. Same problem with 412 update,

Solution.
After some research I found that turning off HDhotplug and HDhotplugctl in the service menu of the TV resolved the issue, and improves the startup no-end.

Applies to some other makes of TV too I believe, although some call it HDMI clock control.

Original Post

40. NO TOUCH MICOM 1.35

DST have made a special No Touch Micom.

See Below FAQ #40

41. How to convert to DivX/XviD AVI Format for the DHR
see Below FAQ #41

#42. Full Scan vs. Update Scan ??? What's the difference ???
see below FAQ #42
 
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Current Warranty and Repair Services :

DIGITALSTREAM: DIGITAL HD SETTOP BOX OFFICIAL UK REPAIR CENTRE
Provided by DMUK Services Ltd.
DMUKsvc.com
Unit A, Allens West
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TS160RW
United Kingdom

Service Help Desk: 01642 789200 / 01642 789100

DS Korea eMail
[email protected]
 
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1. How do I Upgrade my Firmware ?

Go to UPGRADE
MIT London Ltd.

Standard Upgrade M3.51, M3.57, 4.11, 4.12 etc. . . .
Download UpdateName.zip and unzip to the root of a USB Stick - Follow standard Menu Method instructions


USB stick must be FAT32 format.
Use Front USB for ease.

FAQ.1 - More Detailed Version
After Update from M3.00 (first Factory installed Firmware)
please do a Factory Reset
MENU > OTHERS > Maintenance > Restore Default [PIN-0000] - YES/NO
(BLUE Highlight is Selected Option)​

Full Version Update (FVU) M4.03 (4.02)
This requires Lerger Zip File with various numbers of files depending on version. Up to 11 Files are downloaded in a .zip file.
These files have to be placed in the root of a USB Stick (Flash Drive/Thumb Drive/Flash Disk ?)

You then have to follow the FVU Rear USB Boot Method
see FAQ #19 for full details and pictures


NOTE: Version 4.03 has no effect on the functionality compared to Version 4.02 and is released to resolve the touch pad sensitivity issue.
The customer who has already upgraded to 4.02 successfully does not require to upgrade to this version again.

NOTE: Only Fully Compliant USB Sticks will work for a Full Version Update (ie. conform to USB spec very strictly)
If after Power ON with USB Stick in Rear Port your box returns to Standby the Update files/Stick has not been recognised and you will need to try again with another Make/Model Stick.




____________________________________________________________________________________

Standard Update Method

Download 2 files (update.tgz and update.md5)
Copy to ROOT of FAT32 Formated USB Stick
Power Mode ON - DS HDR box
Insert USB Stick into Front USB
Detected USB > Pop-UP
Go to
MENU > OTHERS > Maintenance > Software Update [PIN 0000] > OTA / USB
Update should take mere seconds.
Box will Re-Boot

Note: A Factory Reset is needed after Updating 3.00 to 3.51 or 3.57 in order to re-set all variables fully.
Other later updates should not need a Reset, but may ! ! !
Note: OTA Option is added after first Update
____________________________________________________________________________________

Full Version Update Method

Download .zip File from MIT London
Extract and then copy ALL Files to ROOT of a (Strictly Compliant) USB Stick (11 Files 4.03 - 10 Files 4.02)
OPTIONAL:
With DHR ON - Insert USB Stick into Rear USB Port (Upper or Lower)
Check for Pop-Up : USB is Connected . . . recognized by DHR​

1) Put DHR into Standby Mode (Front Panel Switch or Remote Button)
2) Power OFF - Use Switch on Rear Panel or Mains Switch
3) Insert USB Stick into Rear USB Port (if not already inserted)
4) Wait 30 seconds minimum in OFF State.
5) Power ON - Use Switch on Rear Panel or Mains Switch
6) DS Starts with Normal Boot Sequence
NOTE: after about 30 seconds of - LOADING - LOADING - you should see the Update Sequence begin - if your DHR does not start the Update Sequence and goes to After Power Cut Standby Mode (Clock Only) then the Update has not happened and you will have to try a different USB Stick.​
7) DS Update Sequence begins

Full Sequence
Front Panel will display following messages in sequence
DIGITALSTREAM - Loading - - Loading . . . . . . . . . . Updating - 30% - 50% - 70%
- micom update - FINISHED
TV SCREEN
SPLASH SCREEN - System Update + Progress Bar - 30% - 50% - 70% FULL - BLACK SCREEN
Safe to Continue

8) Power OFF - Use Switch on Rear Panel or Mains Switch

9) Remove USB device

10) Wait 30 seconds

11) Power ON - Use Switch on Rear Panel or Mains Switch

12) DS Boots to Welcome Screen

13) As returned to Factory Default setting select Screen Type

14) Start Channel Scan and SAVE

15) Set Preferences as they were before Update


 
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2. I have no signal to my TV when DS DHR is in Standby

The Low Power (Power Saving Mode) Standby has no Aerial Loop Through. This is a hardware function.
The Default Normal Standby allows RF Aerial Loop Through.
You can use Low Power and an Aerial Y Splitter (about £1.30 from Amazon)
MENU > PREFERENCES > Power Management > Power Saving Mode in Standby - ON/OFF
 
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3. How to copy SD TV programmes to your PC

Click.
 
USER MANUAL

MIT London - DHR820xU User Manual

REVIEWS

In Depth User Review with lots of pictures

What Hi-Fi? Sound and Vision - Freeview HD PVR - Digital Stream DHR8205U

FORUM FAQ

USB stick is not recognised by DS

This can happen with some types of USB sticks, to stand best chance of it being recognised the USB stick must be USB2.0 certified

Info Banner stays on screen too long

Use "Exit" button to close any on screen GUI items instantly

Channel Change after entering the channel number is too slow

The DS has a wait time built in to ensure the user has enough time to enter channel numbers on the remote. For example you enter 1 it will then wait in case you want to enter another digit in case you are typing in a channel number in the range 10 to 19, and again if say 11 was entered it then would wait for a 3rd digit in case a channel number in the range 110 to 119 was being entered.

For instant channel changes enter the channel number e.g. 50 for BBC One HD then press "OK" button.

Does the HDMI output 5.1 surround sound?

No. The HDMI at this time only carries 2 channel stereo, to get Dolby Digital 5.1 the Digital SPDIF Optical output must be used.

KNOWN LIMITATIONS/ISSUES/BUGS

1. If a program is part of a series link then a single recording instance of the program can't be cancelled while in progress or removed without removing the whole series link.

2. Recording are interuppted if "Automatic Standby" is enabled (see post http://www.avforums.com/forums/13446594-post270.html). Workaround - disable "Automatic Standby" and report issue to MIT, they are aware but if more users that report this it maybe given a higher proirity in being fixed.

FORUM HOW TO's

How to play multiple recordings back to back

Credit to daveh48 for pointing this out

From Media selected the multiple recordings you wish to watch then use FUNC+ to select "Play All Selected"

Pete, you've not added your tip about loosening the fan screws.
 
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:smashin: Jeff

12A. How to reduce Fan Noise

01. (Unofficial !) Slacken off the 4 screws holding the fan. Just loosen them slightly to de-locate the fan from the case and reduce case resonance. One 360° turn per screw then push the screws to position the fan away from the case back.

02. Install the latest Update (3.57+). This will change the fan behaviour so that it is only on when the HDD, or CPU, is hot.​
 
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14. Where is the Change-Log for the Updates ?

There is a PDF/DOC with the Change-Log for the latest Updates (currently EoJ and EoA and EoD and EoM-11 and EoJ-11 and BoS-11)
on the MIT London website
MIT London Ltd. Update

or it is listed below

Software version 4.13 (BoS-11 ?)
Release date: 9th/Sep./2011
TUBE1&2 (Model: DHP8100U/DHR8203U/DHR8205U/DHR8206U): Application 4.13.r8637
1. New Features
Auto Folder creation for series bookings (Preference->Miscellaneous->Series Folder Off/On)​
2. Bug Fixes
Non-stop recording issue is fixed
Fixed the crash problem in case of illegal Date/Time is received from the signal
Fixed the Initialise option at system logging which caused logging no usable
Fixed the sorting problem for Radio recorded programmes​



Software version 4.12 (EoJ-11)
Release date: 30th/June/2011
TUBE1&2 (Model: DHP8100U/DHR8203U/DHR8205U/DHR8206U): Application 4.12.r8569
1. New Features
A. Xvid/Divx Media Playback (with .srt format subtitle)
B. Mute icon timeout option (MENU >Preferences > Miscellaneous > C. Mute Display Timeout)
D. DD transcoding on the HDMI output
E. Addition of Auto option for Dolby Digital setting (/Auto/On/Off)​

2. Bug Fixes
A. AV pause when aging under 2 Rec + 1 Play for a long time
B. Improper popup of Conflict message
C. For recorded material, main audio and AD audio out of sync
D. Repair doesn't work when the HDD is not mounted
E. Improve file delete speed
F. &#8220;Service is not available&#8221; is displayed when the channel is wrapped around with Ch+ button
G. To support MHEG-based BBC iPlayer - Some minor bugs had been resolved​

Software version 4.11 (EoM-11 Full Version Update)
TUBE1&2 (Model: DHP8100U/DHR8203U/DHR8205U/DHR8206U): Application 4.11.r8280
Release date: 31st/Mar/2011

1. New Features
A. Backup schedule list
[To Backup]
- Insert a USB memory
- Go to Menu->Others->Maintenance->Backup/Restore DB
- The Channel and Schedule Data Base will be stored into the USB
[To Restore]
- Insert the USB memory which has stored DB
- Perform Restore Default (If you do the FVU, it will make same effect)
- At Welcome screen, press [Exit]
- Go to Menu->Others->Maintenance->Backup/Restore DB
- The Channel and Schedule Data Base will be restored.​
2. Cosmetic Changes
A. gray out past programs in EPG
B. 5.1ch Audio display
C. Red dot in EPG
D. DD, DD+ logo​
3. Bug Fixes
A. Series reservation of split programme lists on All and Single category in the Schedule list.
B. Duplicate entries in the schedule list when doing series reservation.
C. Changing of group by the Func+ button at the EPG does no effect.
D. Channel change by the direct number entry changes the current group mode to TV mode either in Live or EPG.
E. Sometimes recording cannot be stopped or started.
F. ITV2, STV+1 shows &#8220;No Service&#8221; in Blackhill region
G. Bug fix for EPG display in Favourite mode
H. HDMI compatibility improved.
I. Can't play a title if it is moved to a folder with same title name
J. Pixilation when playing the recorded contents.
K. 1st part of recording cannot be played after mains power cycle if TV or Radio group is mixed
L. Set turns to power on mode sometimes after 3:00 o'clock update
M. Set sometimes remains at active standby mode even if the power saving mode was set to &#8220;on&#8221;​


Software version 4.03 (EoD Full Version Update)
. TUBE1&2 (Model: DHP8100U/DHR8203U/DHR8205U/DHR8206U): Application 4.03.r7732 - Micom 1.30/31
Release date: 04th/Jan/2011
. (4.03.r7901 - Micom 1.32/33 Released 01/Feb/2011 Updated Micom Set)
1. This version has no effect on functionality compared to 4.02 version and is released to
resolve sensitivity issue of the touch pad.
Note:The customer who has already upgraded to 4.02 successfully does not require to
upgrade to this version again.​

Software version 4.02 (EoD Full Version Update)
. TUBE1&2 (Model: DHP8100U/DHR8203U/DHR8205U/DHR8206U): Application 4.02.r7717
Release date: 20th/Dec/2010

1. New Features
A. Add MHEG iPlayer function &#8211; New MHEG version is ported.
B. PIP - Direct Number Entry to change PIP Channel
In PIP mode, press [number]+PIP button to change PIP channel directly.
C. Direct Number Entry in EPG
D. Instant Recording - Pop-Up with Direct number entry
E. Transfer of SD and HD recordings to external HDD &#8211; Add encryption for HD recordings
F. Cursor position memory in Media List
G. Persistent EPG searches
H. Hide the .trp extension
I. Favourite List View at EPG menu
J. Bring up File/Buffer Position-Banner at any time with PLAY button.
K. Add : PiP when watching a recording.
L. Minimise HDD spinning noise during internal power on mode at 3:00am
M. Allow copying of identical file name
N. HDD repair function for an external HDD
O. JPEG rotation function added
P. Add Best QoS Mux selection if LCN conflicts
Q. Continue recording even in mains power interruption situation
R. &#8220;&#8230;&#8221; display if texts are truncated​

2. Bug Fixes
A. HE-AAC Downmix 5.1ch patch
B. Audio level differences between 5.1ch and 2ch has been adjusted
C. Remove JPEG noise
D. Improve conflict resolutions
E. Improve duration information in Schedule list
F. Fixes for HDMI compatibility
G. Fixes for a minor Trailer booking bug
H. Fixes for a minor split event reservation bug
I. Title play compatibility problem is fixed even after the software upgrade
J. Fixes for &#8220;Micom update!&#8221; display at Front display
K. Make thread safe for recording engine
L. Minor fixes for manual reservation failure
M. Fix for no HD linkage icon display when multiple descriptor received
N. Fix for strange behaviour during copy if a content includes special character
O. Fix for no Guide display if a service contains only EITpf
P. Minor fixes for Audio Description​

Software version 3.57 (EoA)
. TUBE1 & 2 (Model: DHP8100U / DHR8203U/DHR8205U): Application 3.57. r6390
Released date: 1st/Sep/2010

1. New Features

A. Picture Quality Control Menu (Main Menu > Preferences > AV Setup > Picture Control):
Contrast, Brightness, Saturation
B. 576i option (Main Menu > Preferences > AV Setup > Video Format)
C. Pillar Box (Main Menu > Preferences > AV Setup > Display Format). WIDE button on
the remote gives same effect.
D. &#8220;NEW&#8221; icon for new recordings.
E. Audio Description recording.
F. HD Subtitle recording.
G. Fan On/Off control.
H. JPEG photo rotation.​

2. Bug Fixes
A. Green line with Sony TV at 1080p HDMI output.
B. Jump to live during chase playback.
C. Can't delete recorded radio programmes.
D. Recorder reset when playing MP3 with specific sampling rate.
E. Can't go back to Power Save mode after housekeeping at 03:00AM
F. SCART pin 8 asserted when recording in Standby mode.​

3. Known Issues
A. Long deleting time for recorded titles ~ partially improved.
B. RCU not responding before Info Banner displayed ~ partially improved.​


Software version 3.51/3.52 (EoJ)
. TUBE1 (Model: DHR8203U/DHR8205U): Application 3.51. r5849
. TUBE2 (Model: DHP8100U): Application 3.52.r5855
Released date: 2nd/Jul/2010

1. Major improvements
A. 10-sec phantom recording solved
B. Trailer booking issue solved
C. EPG gathering and navigation speed improved
D. Solutions for several deadlocks such as deleting the recording files or copying files to root
folder
E. Default sorting in Media is by Date.
F. Mute/Volume control in Media/EPG/Schedule/Menu
G. Service information display for recorded contents
H. Default for Timeshift Auto-Start is &#8220;Enabled&#8221;
I. Gray-out the list of unreachable services when two services from different MUXs are recording
J. 10minute early starting of a manual reservation
K. Intermittent no audio when doing 64x FF during playback
L. Alternate instance treatment of a series reservation
M. Trailer booking solved
N. EPG speed greatly improved
O. Enable/Disable wording corrected
P. Time Information corrected during chase playback
Q. Chase playback continues even after the current recording stopped
R. Repeat default to play once
S. Timeshift auto-start default to &#8220;Auto&#8221;
T. Title display on VFD is corrected​

2. New features
A. Option for &#8220;Guidance Message Display&#8221; on/off (See Preference > Parental Control)
B. Option for &#8220;Play from Last Viewed / Play from Start&#8221; when playback recordings
C. Copying SD recordings to External HDD
i. You need a NEW HDD bigger than 160GB and need special formatting.
ii. This is for archiving only. PC Windows cannot recognize this special formatting.
iii. Multiple copying is supported.
iv. If you cancel copying during multiple file copy, the operation will be cancelled after
completing the current file copy. Please wait until it finishes the current job. This will be
improved in the next release.
D. Transcoding from HE-AAC to DD is supported.
i. DD5.1 output only from S/PDIF when Preference à AV Setup à Dolby Digital is enabled.
ii. HDMI output doesn't support DD5.1​
 
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15. Copy To and Move To ? in the MEDIA List FUNC+ Menu

You can make a Directory eg. FILMS
MEDIA > FUNC+ > Others > New Folder

Move To to move recordings into a directory. (doesn't add any space requirement.)

Copy To is used with an external drive (160GB+ Formatted by the DHR to XFS)
Currently only SD program recordings are allowed to be exported but the next release will add HD export. The HD programs will be encrypted for playback only on DS machine.
(professorhat's Invaluable Guide is FAQ 3)​
 
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Thanks Karlin


16. Some Useful Links and Images

Reviews
What Hi-Fi : What Hi-Fi? Sound and Vision - Freeview HD PVR - Digital Stream DHR8205U
What Hi-Fi : What Hi-Fi Community review (professorhat)
Pocket Lint : Digital Stream DHR8203U Freeview HD recorder review - Pocket-lint
Tech Radar : Digital Stream DHR8203U review from TechRadar UK's expert reviews of Digital TV recorders
Gadget Speak : Review : Digital Stream Freeview +HD with PVR
The Register (Reg Hardware) : Digital Stream DHR8203U Freeview HD DVR - reghardware
What Satellite : Freeview+ HD PVR group test
T3
t3review.jpg

Thanks to Technology News and Gadget Reviews | T3 magazine Online


Older threads:
Part 1
Part 2
Part 3
Part 4 >21 December 2010 ongoing

Misc:
FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) Thread here
Buy Digital Stream DHR8205 500GB Freeview+ HD TV Recorder online at JohnLewis.com (£199 as of 10-12-10)
Digital Stream
Upgrade files: MIT London Ltd.
Userguide PDF direct link (save to your desktop) [NOTE: I had to add the file name .pdf for this to work -you may have to do that or let Windows know it should be opened by your PDF reader]

Models:
250GB (DHR8202U) (not released)
350GB (DHR8203U)
500GB (DHR8205U)
1TB [1000GB] (DHR8206)​

Remote control:

dsremote1.jpg

Rear Panel

dsdhrrearpanel1.jpg

Some other images (thanks go to XS Items)

click for larger
 
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As a result of post http://www.avforums.com/forums/13632478-post677.html

FORUM FAQ

Series Recording - Pressing the remote Record button whilst in EPG does not give the Series Recording option

With program highlighted in EPG using the Record button will set a recording only for that single instance of the program in the EPG, to set a series recording press the OK button instead and you'll be given two options "Reserve Single" & "Reserve Series", select the "Reserve Series" option.
 
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18. Can I stop playback of a file from starting again when it gets to the end ?

Yes, you can turn off the Repeat Function.

While playing a file hit the [Repeat] Button and this will Toggle the Repeat Mode - All / Off / 1
(Off = No Icon - Top Right of Transport Banner)
(See p22 and p24 of the User Manual (PDF) for more options)​
 
Temporary FAQ for M4.02 FVU


It is a Full-Version Update Pack with 10 files.
Check after the download that it has 10 files in total.

All are needed and should be placed in the root of your FAT32 USB Stick.

FVU resets all Schedules and Channel List etc.
Recordings are preserved.

It is a Full-Version Update so you have to use the Rear-USB FVU Install Method.

The method I use (Official method will be on MIT)

FVU Install
With DHR ON
Plug in USB to Lower or Upper-Rear USB - Check recognised by DHR.
Go to Standby
Power - OFF on Rear
(wait about 30 seconds)
Power - ON on Rear
Loading - Splash - Loading . . .
FP = Updating - 30 - 50 - 70 - micom update - FINISHED
Screen = System Update + progress bar - (Finished=) BLACK.
Power OFF on Rear
REMOVE USB
(Wait about 30 Seconds)
Power ON on Rear
Black Splash Screen
Normal Boot to Welcome Screen

If you do not get the System Update Screen / FP Updating etc.
Please try again using the other Rear USB Port.
Some boxes take longer to discharge capacitors/memory
so you may have to wait longer in Power-OFF state.
Recommendation changed to 30 seconds.

If you still get no Update please try a different USB Stick.
There is a theory that only a USB2.0 certified stick will work !

_________________________________________

There is of course no obligation to update to 4.02 unless you want/need to . . .

4.02 FVU Pack will install a new Black Splash screen if you do not already have one.
4.02 FVU Pack may not be Down-Dated as easily as previous versions.


Interim Changes List

With added MHEG iPlayer Note.

As Posted #374

EoN
1. New Features

A. Wish List
i. #03: Instant Recording – Pop-up with Options Currently Default= 2H:00M and individual control for HOUR and MIN
ii. #09: Direct Number Entry in EPG Works
iii. #11: Favourites List View (EPG Menu) Partial implementation More in EoD
iv. #14: Bring up File/Buffer Position-Banner at any time with PLAY button Works
v. #16: Add: PIP when watching a recording Works :smashin:
vi. #17: PIP – Direct Number Entry to change PIP channel Enter Number and Hit PIP Button :smashin:
vii. #20: Transfer of SD and HD recordings Works: HD is Encrypted : Still XFS 160GB+HDD
viii. #25: Hide the .trp file extension Yes
ix. #31: Persistent EPG searches Partial implementation : Keyword is remembered for next search : Resets on Standby

B. Others

i. Fan doesn’t run during 3:00AM housekeeping
ii. BBC request on the audio level difference between SD and HD channels Checked "....Jools" and no Thuds ! Good so far ! My audio level is the same as from Sony TV
iii. MEDIA List now remembers both Sort-Method (eg.Time) and Sort Direction (eg.Last-First)​

2. Bug Fixes related to the following. ?
A. Trailer booking
B. MP3/JPEG
C. File management and USB HDD
D. Recording and playback
E. AD​

More Wish List items will be in an Approximate EoJan Update

BBC iPlayer is built into the BoD 4.xx Update and will be available as soon as BBC start FreeviewHD MHEG iPlayer broadcast.
You cannot see it is there yet. It will be an option from TEXT/RED Button.

I have had an e-Mail from the BBC and they cannot give any date for it yet - Hopefully early next year.

There is a BBC Blog post about FreeSat that mentions FreeView-HD MHEG iPlayer in the New Year
BBC - BBC Internet Blog: New BBC Red Button Connected Homepage
We're also beginning to develop the Connected Homepage for the Freeview HD set top boxes which are able to work with an internet connection. We aim to have this available in early 2011.
 
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19. What is the Full Version Update Method and what happens ?

FVU 4.03 (4.02) Combined AVF-Method and Pictures

Full Version Update Method

Download .zip File from MIT London
Extract and then copy ALL 11 Files to ROOT of a (Strictly Compliant) FAT32 USB Stick (10 files M4.02)

OPTIONAL:
With DHR ON - Insert USB Stick into Rear USB Port (Upper or Lower)
Check for Pop-Up : USB is Connected . . . recognized by DHR​

fvupdateorder024.jpg


Note If you do not get this message first try the other rear USB socket and if that also fails then try another USB device.

1) Put DHR into Standby Mode (Front Panel Switch or Remote Button)

2) Power OFF - Use Switch on Rear Panel or Mains Switch

3) Insert USB Stick into Rear USB Port (if not already inserted)

4) Wait 30 seconds minimum in OFF State.

5) Power ON - Use Switch on Rear Panel or Mains Switch

6) DS Starts with Normal Boot Sequence
NOTE: after about 30 seconds of - LOADING - LOADING - you should see the Update Sequence begin - if your DHR does not start the Update Sequence and goes to After Power Cut Standby (Clock Only) then the Update has not happened and you will have to try a different USB Stick.​
7) DS Update Sequence begins

PHOTOS

a) DS Boots

TV - Splash Screen - This may be a White Splash until after this Update.
fvupdateorder001.jpg


Front Panel - <<<<< DIGITALSTREAM (Rolling In)
fvupdateorder015.jpg


Front Panel - Loading - Loading - . . . . . - Loading (about 30 seconds)
fvupdateorder017.jpg


b) Update Starts

Front Panel
fvupdateorder018.jpg


TV
fvupdateorder000.jpg


c) 30% done

Front Panel
fvupdateorder019.jpg


TV
fvupdateorder002.jpg


d) 50% done

Front Panel
fvupdateorder020.jpg


TV
fvupdateorder003.jpg


e) 70% done

Front Panel
fvupdateorder021.jpg


TV
fvupdateorder004.jpg


f) Micom update

Front Panel
fvupdateorder022.jpg


TV
fvupdateorder004.jpg


g) Update Complete

Front Panel
fvupdateorder023.jpg


TV
fvupdateorder005.jpg


Then TV -> BLACK SCREEN (No Photo :rolleyes:)

Safe to Continue

8) Use switch on rear panel of DS to Power OFF

9) Remove USB device

10) Wait 30 seconds

11) Use switch on rear panel of DS to Power ON

12) DS Boots as normal

13) As returned to Factory Default setting select screen type

14) Start Channel Scan and SAVE

15) Set Preferences as they were before Update
 
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Plugged the DS into my mothers new Samsung led c6530 TV via HDMI, and it won't auto switch :( ie: I turn the DS on, and the Samsung does not automatically switch over to it :(

Is this the DS or the Samsung at fault?
 
20. Will the DS DHR Auto Switch my TV to the correct HDMI input ?

Probably not. The DS is not HDMI CEC equipped so it probably won't supply the switch signal.

- Some Beta testers have reported that Panasonic Viera TVs did Auto switch to the DS when 4.02 is loaded
- Some don't find this a help ! Some do ! !​
 
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21. OMG ! - I just used the Menu to set HDMI output and now I have a BLACK SCREEN ! ! ! What can I do ?

It's OK - You can use the V.FORMAT Button on the Remote to cycle through the available output modes and the Front Panel gives you an indication of the current mode.​
 
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22. New user tips. The BikeButt Collection - Thread 3 #838.

Collected from DS Master Thread Parts 1 - 3 (edited)

Frame by Frame NUDGE - PAUSE play.
To NUDGE use [PAUSE] then [<<] or [>>]
Unique feature on the DS - NUDGE to move the Paused Image back and forth to get to the frame you want to see ref.petrev

Keyword or Genre Search in EPG.
No need to use [Func+] to enter Search mode, press [TEXT] Button on remote when in the Guide. ref.jeffD


Recording facility.
You can record any 2 channels at any time - 2 Tuners.

You can only watch a 3rd channel from the available MUX during a double recording. Petrev 904

Unavailable Channels "Greyed-Out" [OK] Channel List was added in the first Update 3.51.
Not a perfect implementation as the highlighted channel does not look different, just the other channels, so you have to move off a channel to find out if it is "Greyed-Out" or not. Petrev 890

One wrinkle of note on this is the "Watching a channel while 2/2nd recording starts using MUX that are not the current LIVE viewing one" - There will be a Pop-Up asking which service to stop eg. LIVE or REC-Name1 or REC-Name2 - If you don't give an answer then after 30 seconds LIVE is stopped but you could miss 30 seconds of a program while it waits for user input. Petrev 904

No Time-Shift on 3rd. Petrev 275

Recording in Standby.
Still got a recording taking place ? (for say a late night film), so I use the Remote to place the DS into standby. This is an active standby were Front Panel dims to give the appearance of standby but REC is shown on Front Panel to show a recording is taking place. Then once the recording is complete the DHR powers down to Real Standby with clock shown (I don't use the Low Power Standby "Power Saving" option - NO Clock), doing this I've had no problems with recordings being interrupted. ref.jeffD

Automatic Standy Option. Now Reported Fixed in 4.02
There is an Automatic Standby Option in the Menu which turns the machine (completely) off after 4 hours without touching the controls. As I've mentioned earlier in this thread though it's not worth turning this on as it still turns the machine off even when it's in the middle of recording. Colino Green 573

I use remote to place the DS into standby, this is a active standby were front panel dims to give appearance of standby but REC is shown on front panel to show a recording is taking place. Then once the recording is complete it powers down to real standby with clock shown (I don't use low power standby "Power Saving" option), doing this I've had no problems with recordings being interrupted. JeffD 396

Standby Recording
You can switch Standby ON or OFF as normal when the box is recording. ProfessorHat 862

Switch DS to Standby and the front display darkens and shows "REC", it will then go to full standby once recording is complete. JeffD 876

You will be able to watch the TV using the RF Loop-Through if the DS is in Normal Standby or ON.

Normal Standby uses more power than Low Power SB. Petrev 597

Low Power Standby (Power Saving Mode) - No RF (or Scart) Pass-Through. Jeffd 268
The power saving option disables Aerial pass-through to the TV when in "Deep Sleep". Colino Green 398

Normal Standby = Front Display shows DATE and TIME
Normal Standby - Start Recording: Date changes to REC (just after the Rec-LED lights up.)
Wake from Standby during recording - REC disappears - Rec-LED stays ON.
Approx. 12 minutes before a Reservation Time the DHR will Wake from Low Power Standby to an Active Standby to allow for early AR recording.

After a Power Cut while in Standby - Front Display only shows TIME.

No interruptions to TV signal when recording starts or stops. Petrev 388



Screen Resolution and Format

The [V.FORMAT] Button will cycle all available HDMI Resolution Formats

Use the [WIDE] Button on the Remote to switch between Pillar-Box and Wide Modes on 4:3 source material.

I just have the Display Format set to Pillar Box in the Preferences and this sets broadcasts to automatically go to 4:3 mode or 16:9 mode as necessary. Professorhat 474
The Pillar Box setting autoswitches to 4:3 on channels such as Russia Today and ITV3/4 whenever necessary. Colino Green 272

AUTO HDMI Mode on the DS sends out the highest (best?) available on the TV so for a Full-HD panel that would be 1080p. petrev 44
The pillabox setting works on all outputs which is great as I much prefer programmes to be in the original 4.3 format rather than stretched across the screen. daveH 48

There is a Test Card in the BBC-HD Preview Loop Broadcast. They periodically broadcast a Test Card with 5.1 Audio Test included. They also broadcast an Audio Sync Test as well (Black & White with a couple of moving elements and a Click). I have recorded these for reference as they are really useful.

There is a Test card that you can get from Channel 105 ! ! !
It's pretty low quality (SD at a Low Bit Rate - TEXT Data Stream) but it's just about usable for some set-up checks.
Method: Go to CH-105 > Text Screen Appears > [YELLOW] > Go To CH-1 > Go To CH-105 > [GREEN] > Diagnostics Screen Appears > [GREEN]
This second press of GREEN - wait a bit and be prepared to press it a few times before the Test Card appears. Petrev 805

Channel selection.
If say you want to go to BBC 1 pressing the 1 button the PVR displays the 1 at the top of the screen instantly but then waits for another digit just in case you want, let's say, channel 12. The best way I have found to get round this, is to press the 1, in the case of BBC 1 then press the [OK] button and the PVR or TV switches instantly. KayCS 482​

Media/Recordings archive/Schedule.
"ALL" LIST Doesn't show which are Single or Series events !
Icon shows Event from EPG. Series Link Icon Appears at bottom of List (Info Area) in Group List.

The Single Reservation Events are in the Single List.
Series Link in the Group List.
If you Hit "INFO" on an entry in the "ALL" List you will see Type "EPG Single" or "Instance of EPG Group" Petrev 904

Play All function.
Select recordings from MEDIA LIST with [GREEN] button and select Play All with the [Func+] button to have them played back automatically one after the other. The best bit about this particular feature is it will play the list of selected programmes in whatever order that you selected them, rather than just in descending list order (as you might have expected). JFSebastian 916

Picture Control Menu - Fine tuning video output.
DS Picture Control Menu shows real-time effect of slider control changes.
Control sliders for:
Contrast
Brightness
Saturation
Save and Reset Buttons. Petrev 227


From Thread part 3
The DS DHR wakes briefly at about 03:00 for those weird PVR housekeeping things ! ? !
DHR should go back to sleep again. Petrev #39

[Back] Button also alternates between last viewed channel and current viewing channel.

[Exit] Button removes On-Screen INFO and other Banners ref.Petrev
 
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25. USB Sticks !

PREPARING USB MEMORY STICKS FOR SOFTWARE UPDATES by JeffD

General Info​


Although it should be possible to update with either a USB1.0 or USB2.0 stick, to stand greatest chance of having your USB stick correctly detected by the Linux OS that the DS uses then try and use a UBS2.0 certified stick. Some USB sticks may state they are USB2.0 but unless the original package had the following logo then they will not have been certified as fully compliant to the standards.

53414-albums1065-picture7991.jpg

1. Plug USB stick in a Windows PC.

2. Since USB sticks rarely come blank as the manufactuers normally load things like autorun scripts, backup software, password protection software etc on them, it is advised that you carry out a "Quick Format" to ensure the USB stick is truely blank before proceeding. When carrying out the "Quick Format" ensure the "FAT32" file system is selected.

53414-albums1065-picture7992.jpg


53414-albums1065-picture7993.jpg

NOTE - Carrying out the Quick Format is advised to minimise the possibility of any conflicts caused by something in existance on the USB stick, however you can attempt to use the USB as it is with other files (as long as they are not files for previous DS updates) and directories present if you wish after first of all verifying that the "File System" is "FAT32" in the "Properties" of the USB stick, if "File System" is either "FAT" or NTFS" then the stick must still be formatted. If you follow this route and a problem is encountered with the update then you can fallback on formatting the USB stick before proceeding with the following steps.

53414-albums1065-picture7994.jpg


53414-albums1065-picture7995.jpg

3. Ensure the update files downloaded from the MIT London website have been unzipped to your PC hard disk then copy the files across to the top level directory (root) of the USB stick.

4. To proceed with the update follow the relevent steps in FAQ#1, see http://www.avforums.com/forums/13478485-post5.html

Known working USB Sticks

Bytestore - Model Unknown - 512MB
Dan-Elec - Model Unknown - 1GB
Kingston - Data Traveler - 512MB
Kingston - Data Traveler G3 - 4GB
Lexar - Flip - 4GB
Lexar - Flip - 16GB
Lexar - JumpDrive - 128MB
Lexar - JumpDrive VE - 8GB
LG - Model Unknown - 1GB
Sandisk - Cruzer - 4GB
Sandisk - Cruzer Blade - 8GB
Sandisk - Cruzer Micro - 2GB
Sandisk - Cruzer Micro Skin - 8GB
Super Talent - Pico D-Swivel - 8GB
Verbatim - Model Unknown - 4GB​

Known not working USB Sticks

Corsair Flash Voyager Mini 16GB
Patriot - Xporter - 16GB
Samsung - Model Unknown - 2GB​

If your USB memory stick is not listed

Go ahead and attempt the update then post whether it was successful or not on the Digital Stream DHR-8203/5U HD-PVR Master thread, please when doing this post info on the USB stick used in the format:

Make - Model - Size​
 
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