Watching Explora content from HD single view decoder

[The_Ogre]

Does anybody know how this can be done?

I have one Explora and two HD single-view decoders set up in a 3 viewing environment configuration. I'm the primary user (if I can put it that way) of the Explora since its in the lounge and I mostly watch sport - neither my wife, nor the kids are interested in sports so they watch their series, cartoons, etc from the other decoders in different rooms.

Problem is, the Explora is the only one capable of recording so they record their stuff on it and then there's a big fight over who gets to watch what. Hence this thread.

The heartbeat cables of both the secondary cables are plugged into RF-In and RF-Out respectively so there's no other port available to use for an RF link to one of the other TV's. However, last night I read that the heartbeat cables can also carry the feed to the other decoders - which would be bloody awesome. Here's the link.

I'm just confused as how would the person would then choose whether he wants to watch his own live feed or a feed from the Explora? Does anybody know what kind of sorcery is going on here?

edit: if this is possible then surely the other decoders can be able to access ShowMax on the Explora as well (theoretically)

 

[Myrrdin]

That is a great find.

[quotr]In most DSTV XtraView installations it is possible to configure the network to share content from
all decoders to all viewing environments.[/quote]

I would also like to know how to do this.

 

[Lupus]

That is a great find.

[quotr]In most DSTV XtraView installations it is possible to configure the network to share content from
all decoders to all viewing environments.

I would also like to know how to do this.[/QUOTE]
Yeah would like to know this as well.

 

[Geoff.D]

It is quite simple actually, and I am really surprised that so many persons with a 2 decoder (now 3-decoder) configuration have not used the facility before this.

But then, the "normal" installation" undertaken by installers, and the help the call centre dishes out contributes to why many do not get it right ..

The ways in which it is done, (including remote control of a decoder) depends on a few things however.

(a) Are the decoders all installed in one location room? Or is each decoder in a separate room?
(b) Do you want to be able to view HD quality everywhere or will you accept SD quality at remote points?
(c) Do you want to be able to remotely control decoders from anywhere?
(d) Do you want to be able to view all decoders everywhere?

HD quality: get yourself HDMI distribution equipment. One website to go and look at is www.hdcabling.co.za

SD Quality: This is the easiest to achieve

(a) Combine ALL the RF OUT signals together using a suitable combiner, and then distribute that combined signal to every room where you want to be able view the signals. This method will allow emote control of all decoder using MCs tvLINK eyes.
(b) Tune each TV into a separate unique UHF channel number for each decoder. The default is ch 63, so at least 2 decoders need to be set to use different UHF channel numbers.


It is NOT critical from a HB point of view to stick to the RF IN RF OUT "rules" MC says MUST be used on any of the decoders. ALL the new decoders can be set to use ANY port to transmit HB and ANY port to receive HB. Some of the older decoders (1110, 1131, 1132 and the SD PVR) does impose some restrictions to this rule , but the new Explora and the HD single view decoders do not have any of those restrictions anymore.

So the HB is implemented via RF IN to RF IN, leaving the RF OUT ports for use to combine and distribute HB anywhere you want to use it. There are a few caveats when also wanting to use tvLINK eyes for remote control but nothing serious.

Remote control cam be done using remote blasters and remote extenders as well, if the tvLINK eye options is not used or will not work for some reason.

The best way depends on if you are a DIY'er or not.

If not then find yourself a really competent installer who should be able to do what you want. MC claims their "accredited installers" all do know what is needed. Be prepared to cough up.

If you are a DIY'er, the best way is to use an example install according to ma requirement. Anyone want to volunteer what they want to do? We can then use that as an example.