A DVR--digital video recorder--is a popular device, often offered by cable TV providers, that allows home TV viewers to pause, rewind and fast forward live TV programs. You can also use it to record programs for future viewing. If you have a DVR that is not working, troubleshoot the issue using a few simple steps.
Step
Reset the DVR by unplugging its power cord for 30 seconds and plugging it back in. Allow another 30 seconds for the DVR to reboot, and power it on if it does not do so on its own. Note that some DVRs, such as those manufactured by Motorola, can take up to an hour to restore DVR service after a reboot, even after the picture is displayed on the screen.
Step
If the DVR is part of your cable box, contact your cable provider to make sure you are subscribed to DVR service. This is almost always a paid feature that must be enabled on your box by the cable provider.
Step
If the DVR is part of your cable box, ask your cable provider to send a refresh signal to the box. This reminds the box of what services it should be providing you. The box may require a reboot after the signal has been sent.
