IR Blaster - misses first digit

[KryptoNyte]

Hey folks,

I recently picked up the USB Hauppauge HD-PVR to record via component from my STB (Cisco - Explorer 4642HDC). The whole system works quite well with one exception - the IR Blaster sends 4 digits for all channel changes, yet if the STB has been dormant for a while, it seems to need some input before it will recognize the first channel change digit. So basically, if I want to change to channel 1276, I usually end up recording chanel 276.

I've found posts that talk about anything from using firewire channel changing (more reliable) to building a "hut" around the IR Blaster on the STB to ensure channel changes. I've been running 64 bit Windows for years now, so the firewire channel change is apparently a no-go.

Is there any way that I can force the IR Blaster to send something ahead of the channel change to prep the STB for input?

[dc9mm]

I use a USBuirt and have the unit send a 0 (zero) before the actual channel number. Not sure you can set the ir blaster your using to do that but works great for me. Just thought i would mention it.

[KryptoNyte]

Thanks, DC. I'll try contacting Haupauge to see if they have any tips. I see that Tivo actually has a support area where they explain building a "tent" around the ir Blaster and STB ir input area, this might be where I'm headed.

I noticed that the system works fine at night, when the room with the hardware is pitch black.

[KryptoNyte]

I ended up with the "tent" option, closing off the IR receiver on the STB from any light, but that from the IR blaster. So far, so good. I wish there was another simple solution to just change the darn channel.

[KryptoNyte]

So after fooling with this for a bit, I've found a few things ...

Hauppauge 1212 HD-PVR + (Cisco) Explorer 4642HDC

1) I had to re-visit the STB settings, and make sure that ONLY the 1080i setting was set (i.e. - the only setting that should have a dot next to it is 1080i)

2) Make sure that the STB's power saving features are OFF.

3) I had to build a "tent" around the IR blaster/IR Receiver on the STB, effectively eliminated the possibility that any other light might enter the equation.

It's working. Finally, reliable channel changes. Channel changes for live TV are [still] fairly painful.

[doncote0]

Take your current POS HD Comcast box and exchange it for the HD RNG110 -- just tell them you need 3D HDMI which is supported on the RNG110. It will cost you the same as your current POS HD box.

Tape the IR emitter from the HDPVR to the front section of the RNG110 using electrical tape. Open BlastCfg and select the Comcast option. Restart IR. After testing, apply a few extra strips of electrical tape to "blackout" the area by the emitter (what the "tent" solution does).

Done. Almost then entire front area of the RNG110 is IR sensitive compared to my old POS Comcast box.

If you are with another provider, maybe a similar solution will work for you. Just ask about the 3D HDMI support.