ReplayTV2

The notes below are for the scheduled (and aborted) ReplayTV shut down on 7/31/2011. It has nothing to do with any later ReplayTV service problems, but the alternative solutions mentioned may still work.

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ReplayTV Shutdown FAQ

Digital Networks North America has announced they will continue to provide guide data to ReplayTV devices after 7/31/2011!! No details of the continuance are currently available.

Below is the best information known when 7/31/2011 *was* going to be a shutdown. I'm leaving it there until we know more about the long-term situation.

What will happen on 7/31/11

Current answer, *NOTHING*. :)

Previous answer: DNNA says the units will be able to "Manually Record" tv shows after the 7/31 shutdown. ReplayTV support has told some community members that all servers will be shut down on 7/31, preventing setting the system clock. In this case, "Manual Record" probably just means pressing the "Record" button to record for a period of time, not a manually scheduled recording.

If you wish to continue full functionality of your Replay you can use WiRNS to keep your ReplayTV alive. In addition, a new service is being developed so you don't need a local WiRNS server. Keep an eye out for more info.

Using WiRNS to provide Guide Data

WiRNS is a free (as in beer) application that can feed guide data to ReplayTV devices and offers other features. WiRNS can obtain data from any XMLTV source or Schedules Direct. ($20/year for Schedules Direct)

With WiRNS 3.0, all ReplayTV units work fine without Replay's server.

The complexity of a WiRNS solution varies with your ReplayTV unit and configuration. See other sections of this FAQ for details.

Using the LaHo server provide Guide Data

Some community members have gotten together to offer a simple replacement ReplayTV guide service. (code name "LAst HOpe RNS" (LaHo)). Dialup is supported, so a FREESCO install won't be needed.

The LaHo service is provided by Perc Data and is currently in Beta testing. You can join the test at Percdata.com.

The cost for the Perc/LaHo service is $7/mo for the first replay, $4/mo for additional units, and $3/mo/unit for those that need dialup. Payment is initially for 3 months and an annual plan will be available before the first payment period expires.

What about a Scheduled Manual Record

DNNA has only said a "Manual Recoding" will be possible. Scheduling a recording requires setting the clock, which requires a WiRNS solution or Replay's servers to be up.

How will I set the clock?

2k/3k/Showstoppers

There is a hack available here to add a time set page to your Replay. Doing so involves removing the hard disk and adding programs using a PC.

Once connected to a network (see dialup section), 2k/3k units can also use NTP to set the time. WiRNS can provide the NTP proxy functionality.

You may also be able to use Perc/LaHo to set the clock without an account.

4k/5k Units

The NTP time is cryptographically signed.

You can set your clock using WiRNS 3.0 or Perc/Laho. Perc/Laho supports setting your clock without signing up for an account.

What about Dialup Users

A solution exists where a PC (physical or virtual) is configured as a FREESCO router. The ReplayTV can then dial into the FREESCO router using a phone line, phone line simulator, or even a direct connection. Once connected to the FREESCO router, WiRNS can be used to update the ReplayTV box.

Such a solution is currently complicated, but eventually step by step directions will be provided. A rough draft of a FREESCO solution is HERE.

What about Activation

All units require registry changes to "undo" things DNNA set in some recent updates. Both WiRNS and Perc/Laho will apply these changes for you. We should even be able to activate a new unit.

Did ReplayTV go out of business?

ReplayTV was purchased from a bankrupt SonicBLUE by Digital Networks North America (DNNA)in 2005. DNNA also owns the RIO and Escent brands. D&M, DNNA's Parent adds the Denon, Marantz, and other brands. In 2007 DNNA sold many of the ReplayTV assets to DirectTV, but DNNA continued to sell subscriptions and serve ReplayTV owners.

There is no evidence that anyone is going out of business, but DNNA has just decided to shut down the ReplayTV service.

It is not clear who has the legal responsibility for lifetime service. Possible companies are DNNA, D&M, DirectTV and for Showstopper products, Panasonic.

Where can i get more information

Discussion and work on solutions are quite active in the following Forums:

WiRNS Planet Replay Forum
ReplayTV AVS Forum

How can I help

• If you see anything wrong with this FAQ, please update it. (it is a Wiki after all)
• If you have the technical ability, monitor the forums and help!
• Create step by step solution instructions. (start in the forum, can move to a wiki later)
• Create step by step instruction videos.
• File a complaint with your state attorney general! Complaints can be filed on-line.