Inside Sling Box TV Streaming

1. 

   Paul Medina
   October 23rd, 2010 - 06:03

   Review by Paul Medina for Dish Network VIP 722k
   Rating:
   The 722K, a dual satellite tuner model, is virtually identical to the 722 except for the following:

   1. Noticeably better HD and SD picture quality than previous generation ViP’s. (ViP 922 is also reported to have noticeable better PQ).

   2. Different chip-set from previous generation ViP’s are, among other things, supposed to make it easier to work with Sling functions and external devices yet to be released.

   3. The optional MT2 OTA module allows for receiving and recording up to 2 ATSC OTA local broadcast channels at the same time in HD.

   The interface of the 722K is exactly the same as the 722. Operationally, it is identical to previous ViP boxes. The most compelling reason to get a 722K and its greatest advantage is the capacity for it to record up to 4 HD channels at the same time.

   First, the 722K does NOT come with an ATSC OTA (for your digital local broadcasts)demodulator installed–as is the case with previous ViP’s, but those can only receive ONE ATSC OTA channel. For about $30, you can purchase the MT2 OTA demodulator directly from Dish Network (if you are having it installed, the installer can install the OTA demod), from an on-line Dish Network retailer (usually less expensive), or from your local Dish Network retailer in your neighborhood.

   Since the 722K does not come with the MT2 pre-installed, you will need to install it yourself, but it is an extremely easy thing to do. Follow the directions that come with the MT2. All you have to do is unscrew a covering, then gently slip the MT2 module into place. DONE!

   Now, you will need to connect the MT2 to an external antenna to receive your digital local broadcasters. While an indoor antenna may be used with mixed results, the best results are achieved by mounting your antenna outside. Only ONE cable is required to be input to the MT2, but that one cable will provide for 2 (TWO) ATSC OTA tuners. Please go to your 722K menu to scan for your OTA’s. They will be displayed in yellow on the guide along with your other channels. A strength meter displays for each OTA accessed using the MT2. You may seamlessly access these channels for viewing or recording just like any of your other sat channels, and they are part of any search.

   Now, you can record 2 satellite channels and 2 OTA channels all at the same time all in HD, giving you an effective 4 HD tuner DVR. This feature is extremely useful during prime time when the family wants to record favorite shows on local TV and on satellite without having to bump someone else’s timer recording. If you subscribe to Dish Local channels services, you can record all 4 major networks (2 using the sat tuners and 2 using the OTA tuner) in Hi-Def all at the same time.

   IMPORTANT: Don’t cancel your Dish locals via satellite service just yet. While the MT2 and the 722K can record ATSC OTA channels without a subscription to Dish locals via sat, there will be NO program data displayed for your digital locals via the MT2: “Digital Service” is displayed instead with no other information or data. Without Dish local via sat subscription, you will have to set manual timers to record via the M2T. It is a pain, but some people do actually do this to save a few bucks. Yes, that stinks. However, If you want guide data for your digital ATSC OTA’s via the MT2, you will need to subscribe to Dish locals via sat. However, the good news is that the locals via satellite subscription is nominal (about $6), and you can set timers from the guide just like any other channels.

   I have recorded 4 HD channels at the same time many times and even had the 722K archive recordings to the external HDD, and I’ve never experienced any problems.

   Some more noteworthy features of the 722k that have been carried over from previous ViP boxes:

   * Archive to and playback from external HDD’s. A one-time charge (about $35) to activate this feature for ALL ViP’s on your account with this feature. External HDD’s must have their own power supplies. 1TB HDD is supported. You may have an infinite number of external HDD’s in your collection (at present only 1 HDD connected to the box at one time). For example, you can have a seperate HDD for movies, one for TV shows, one for little bobby’s recordings, one for your favorite recordings, etc., and you can archive from one ViP, then connect that HDD to the ViP in another room and watch it using that second ViP.

   * Large capacity internal HDD allowing for over 55 hours of HD programming.

   * Picture-in-Picture feature in SINGLE mode (not available in DUAL Mode)

   * 1 Hour buffer for each tuner

   * Organize your recordings by Folders using the name of the program or create your own customized Folder titles (Mom’s shows; Comedies; what ever you wish)

   * Rename individual recordings (Change the name of those embarrassing titles or rename an incorrectly named recording because a channel changed it programming at the last moment due to sports or news events or plain stupidity).

   * New, enhanced Dish OnLine services now organized by channel, content, rating, etc. Now much easier to find your movies or TV shows available on-line (presently on 722K’s, but 722′s will also receive this update, unknown if earlier models will get this enhancement).

   The 722K really is the best DVR product out there (it would’ve been the 922 except Dish is still working the bugs on that one). I own a TiVo Series 3, and I do like it, but Dish ViP DVR’s, overall, are better than TiVo. In fact, the 3 tuner model of the Moxi is better than even the new TiVo Premier. TiVo comes in at a solid #3 on my list of best DVR’s. The 722K is my favorite DVR in the house.
2. 

   E. Fritz
   October 23rd, 2010 - 06:15

   Review by E. Fritz for Dish Network VIP 722k
   Rating:
   I installed and manage a number of these units for our Emergency Operations at work. I also have one at home. We struggled through some software issues with the earlier versions of this product and with the VIP 622. Most issues with the VIP 622 and 722 were resolved many months ago and are no longer a concern. Be aware that the hard disks last about 18 to 24 months. Then the unit needs repair. Dish sends out a replacement if you took the protection plan. If not, there is a nominal charge to replace a defective unit with a refurbished unit.

   The units function as advertised and serve us well in the Emergency Centers. I give it a real workout at home. The units do like to be turned of for a couple of hours each day to reconstitute themselves. Otherwise they need periodic rebooting. They need plenty of ventilation as they put out as much heat as a 40 to 60 Watt lightbulb. With that type of energy useage, even when they are turned off, they cannot be Energy Star rated; and neither can their competitors’ units. Keep them cool, as with all electronics, and they last longer.

   The 722ks are great machines with the caveat that the hard drives will fail at some point; and you will usually lose all stored content. This is no different than a disk failure in your PC. When it happens, and it will, it is a real pain. You can connect a back-up portable disk if you have critical content. There is a small, one time fee to open the USB port for the external disk.

   You will not be displeased with this product.
3. 

   Sat TV Exec
   October 23rd, 2010 - 06:35

   Review by Sat TV Exec for Dish Network VIP 722k
   Rating:
   This product was delivered quickly and met expectations. It is the top of the line DISH network DVR and is working fine.
4. 

   Dee McNenny
   October 23rd, 2010 - 07:01

   Review by Dee McNenny for Dish Network VIP 722k
   Rating:
   I bought this unit, connected it up in my RV, and watched it work for about 2 hours. Now it won’t turn off unless I unplug it (that’s after trying both remotes AND the power button under the cheesy and very flimsy panel on the front). And it doesn’t work; nothing, nada, is output from this cheaply put together paperweight. Save your money and buy another receiver.
5. 

   Beau Martin
   October 23rd, 2010 - 07:43

   Review by Beau Martin for Dish Network VIP 722k
   Rating:
   We had DISH about 3 years ago in Ohio. We loved it, and we can tell you we would have been one of the satisfied and happy customers they talk about. After a move we opted for cable. While Comcast was good, their initial subscription period ended, and when they tried to jack our rates we went back to DISH. Unfortunately, in the past three years DISH has become far less of the company we used to love, and is now a company we despise.

   While the TV service is fine, their support is terrible. The ABSOLUTE WORST. I’ve called three time and spoken with four people. Most sound like they are homeless people that have been hired to work technical support in their call center. Simply put, they know less about the problem than I do.

   One guy when I told him I was having trouble getting the website to recognize that my DVR even exists (which is the base problem) rambled on about some iPhone control and how I need to download an app from iTunes. I don’t even own an iPod and the link to set my DVR online is just a standard link on their website, using standard HTML, not an app.

   Anyway, they finally submitted a ticket for technical support. It turns out you can’t talk to them – and they can’t call you. The only want to communicate with them is through the homeless morons they hired to work the call center. When I asked about this inability to communicate, they transferred my to cancellations.

   The person in cancellations understood the problem and was half way competent, but suggested the people on chat are better trained than those on the phone. She also knew the phone people were complete putzes.

   Anyway, I would stay away from DISH. They have entered a phase in the life of the company (much like Circuit City) in which anyone competent there seems to be pretty rare, and they are entirely focused on making money – even at the cost of poor customer service.

   By comparison, when we lived in Ohio, they frequently called to make sure we were happy with their service. We haven’t received any of those calls this time. I’m pretty sure this is specifically because they know what the results would be.
6. 

   Rak
   October 23rd, 2010 - 08:34

   Review by Rak for Cisco-Linksys Dual-Band Wireless-N Gaming Adapter
   Rating:
   I have this product connected to my directv hd receiver to download VOD content. If the installation software is not able to detect the device during the installation process, then follow these steps (I had to perform these steps when I called Linksys for assistance. I wish they had just documented the steps instead):

   1. Quit out of the installation software (keep the adapter connected to your pc)

   2. Assign a static IP to your pc (if you do not know how to do this, then call Linksys or google it). The static ip settings should be:
   
   ip: 192.168.1.50
   
   subnet: 255.255.255.0
   
   gateway: 192.168.1.1
   
   leave dns settings as is

   3. Open up your browser and type http://192.168.1.250 in the address bar. You will now see a log in page

   4. Log in with admin/admin

   5. Now assign a static IP to the adapter
   
   ip: 192.168.1.250
   
   subnet: 255.255.255.0
   
   gateway: 192.168.1.1

   6. Now go to the wireless settings tab and enter in your SSID and WEP/WPA Key. Make sure you select the correct authentication type

   7. You will now need to reboot the adapter (it will ask you to do so)

   8. Once the device is back up, go back to the http://192.168.1.250 page and log back in. Double-check to make sure your settings were entered in correctly. The wireless light should light up on your adapter.

   Tip: Before you connect it to your console/receiver, you can test to make sure the adapter can connect to the internet. Switch off your wireless connection on your pc/laptop and connect the adapter to your pc via the ethernet port. Try accessing the internet and if you can, then the adapter is all set.

   Good luck.
   
   p.s. the main reason I detailed out the steps for the “advanced setup” is so that people know that it is still a straight-forward process, so no need to be afraid if you won’t have the plug-and-play experience.

   another tip. if you are still having issues, then try changing the channel on your router (although you should not have to if all your other wireless devices are working well on that channel).
7. 

   Parry
   October 23rd, 2010 - 09:24

   Review by Parry for Cisco-Linksys Dual-Band Wireless-N Gaming Adapter
   Rating:
   First – the product is a bit hard to configure if you do not have a compatible Linksys N router. The CDROM that comes with the WGA600N can only configure it if you have a compatible Linksys router. I have a Apple Airport Extreme N router and had to spend a little time googling to discover that the Reset button on the WGA600N puts it on 192.168.1.250 IP address and that I had to enable static IP in the same subnet on my desktop’s interface in order to be able to go to the Web GUI at http://192.168.1.250. After that, it was a breeze to setup. Very easy.

   That aside, the best part about WGA600N is that it is very good for streaming HD content over your network. I have Slingbox hooked up to my HD enabled Comcast DVR to enable streaming to my desktop in the other room. The desktop has no wireless card and so it was wired to a NetGear Powerline HDX101. With this setup the HDTV streaming with Slingbox was not impressive – frequent lost packets, not so good speed etc.

   But once I hooked the desktop to the WGA600N and had it connect to my extreme N router (Airport shows it connects at 300 rates, whereas my Laptop with WirelessN card connects at 130) no more lost packets, and I get the best streaming speeds, consistently (hovering around 5500Kbps to 6000Kbps).

   Overall I am quite happy with its performance – Linksys should fix the configuration utility though, that will save people without Linksys routers some headache for sure.
8. 

   G. Bovara
   October 23rd, 2010 - 09:42

   Review by G. Bovara for Cisco-Linksys Dual-Band Wireless-N Gaming Adapter
   Rating:
   I was able to set this adapter up easily and quickly with no issues whatsoever. It works perfectly with my XBOX 360 and is much much faster than the XBOX brand wireless G adapter. I am using WPA2 (TKIP and AES) mode on my router and everything is running smoothly with no connection issues. A great product.
9. 

   Mr. M
   October 23rd, 2010 - 10:22

   Review by Mr. M for Cisco-Linksys Dual-Band Wireless-N Gaming Adapter
   Rating:
   I just wasted an hour trying to set this up through my PC while getting error message after error message.

   If you’re trying to hook this up to your DirecTV box (HR-21) to get on-demand content, you DO NOT have to set up the adapter through a pc.

   Simply connect the device to your HR-21′s network port, plug it in, and click DirecTV’s menu button. Go to “Set-up,” then down to “Network.” Answer the questions, and in less than a minute, you should be up and running.

   The latest update to DirecTV boxes provides immediate plug-and-play access with the adapter.

   Hope I saved someone else a lot of time!
10. 

    James R. Crocco Jr.
    October 23rd, 2010 - 11:08

    Review by James R. Crocco Jr. for Cisco-Linksys Dual-Band Wireless-N Gaming Adapter
    Rating:
    I setup the Linksys WGA600N Wireless Game Adapter with my DirecTV HR20 receiver to download VOD. Initially, I had difficulty getting my PC to connect to the adapter (device not found errors). After calling tech support, it was due to my having a non-standard network setup. I do not use the IP address range of 192.168.1.x. As a result, I removed my PC off the network and gave it a static IP address in the 192.168.1 range. I was then able to connect to the device through a web browser (connect to IP 192.168.1.250) and configure it. If it wasn’t for the undocumented issues with the setup, listed below, I would have given this 5 star rating

    Pros – works flawlessly once configured
    
    Cons – undocumented setup hurdles. 1) device uses address 192.168.1.250 as default, 2) default password is ‘admin’

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