How to Use a Splitter to Hook Up a DirecTV DVR

How to Use a Splitter to Hook Up a DirecTV DVR

Learn how to easily connect your DirecTV DVR to your television and extend connections to other rooms using a coax cable and a splitter.

DirecTV offers a unique TV-watching experience by delivering high-definition programming into your home. One of its standout products is the DirecTV DVR, a gadget that allows you to record TV shows so you can watch them at your convenience. DirecTV features remarkable capabilities, such as the ability to rewind up to an hour and a half of live television. This playback feature allows you to review scenes you might have missed during a bathroom break or an important phone call.

If you have recently purchased a DirecTV DVR, you will need to install it on your television set. If your entertainment system is already configured, you might find it difficult to make room for another device, and drilling holes for new connections can be daunting. Fortunately, splitters are available so you can easily connect multiple DVR boxes to your existing setup.

• Gather your materials. You will need a coax cable and a splitter for this project. The quantity of cables and splitters you should buy depends on your needs. Check whether you need a longer cable to reach the device or if splitting is necessary. Splitters are required if you want to connect a DirecTV DVR to another room in addition to your existing connection. If you need to extend the connection length, you will still need a splitter to join the existing cable with a longer one.
• Start with the connection. Your existing coax cables can be found at your wall outlet. Check to see which one is dedicated to your television. Some DirecTV DVR units require one cable, while others require two. Connect the splitter to the cable or cables using a screw and attach it to the “RF In” port on your DVR box.
• The second cable must be connected and screwed to the opposite end of your splitter. You will notice that there are two tabs on the opposite end for connection; you can use either one, as they both work. Use the same “RF In” port to accommodate the second cable.
• The third cable goes to the remaining tab on your splitter. This can be used for multi-room connections. You will need to run this cable to the second room where you want to install the DirecTV DVR, connecting it to the “RF In” port as well.
• Add length. To extend your reach, you can use a smaller two-way splitter to achieve a longer connection. Simply attach the connectors to both ends of the cables before running the cable to the other room. Use the same process to connect the cable to the “RF In” port.

Test your DirecTV DVR in both rooms to ensure that it is working properly. For larger homes with multiple rooms, a DirecTV DVR can still be used across several locations. All you need to do is find a splitter with multiple ports. Be aware, however, that excessive splitting can result in a lower-quality TV signal.