new dtv 'serial' tuning

[coolpup32]

Hey guys, long time no see!

Well, i've got 2 dtv d10-100 i've had for a while. One died a while back i managed to find a 'new' one on ebay. but now my 2nd one isnt getting a strong signal anymore, i've replaced cables and all that cant get it to clear up.

So i'm guessing i'll have to replace it, and i cant get lucky on ebay again. so my questions are:

1) Does directv offer any receivers that allow serial tuning (cheaply). I dont want to get stuck paying over $100 for the patterson adapters, because i may just go ahead and get 2 new receivers.

2) if i went with a d12 or whatever they're shipping out now can i just an 'usb > serial + null modem cable' and sort-of hook it up backwards? I think i've read that somewhere else, but not sure.

3) Or if anyone might know why 1 receiver has a lower signal quality over the other no matter which port of the lnb its on.

i've searched the forums and cant get an exact answer i'm looking for.
p.s. I've always used serial tuning, So I will not 'enjoy' IR blasting as an alternative. heh

Thanks for your help!

[Fuzzy]

I too have read that people have gotten it working that way. If the D12 does indeed mount a USB > Serial adapter and use it as the previous model Serial ports, then it should definately work. And if the Patterson adapter is just a USB -> Serial with crossed wires, then it appears it is VERY overpriced.. :-)

Let us know how it works if you give it a shot.