Can I use my TiVo if I don't have cable/satellite?

Question

I have a TiVo that I purchased about 2 or 3 years ago. I used it when I had a satellite package through DirecTV. When I changed from Direct to Dish, the TiVo ended up on the floor in a closet because Dish supplied a leased DVR as part of their package.

Now I'm considering cancelling all satellite services completely and using only regular (non-pay) television channels. Will I be able to use my TiVo? Or do I need to have a satellite package to use it? (Of course I would read the TiVo booklet but I don't know where it is.)

Answer 1

You can use the Tivo with your over the air channels. When you start up the Tivo, just go to reset and re-enter the information, like zip code etc. You will need to be hooked up to a phone line. You will need to pay the Tivo monthly fee again.

Answer 2

All the answers are correct, IF this is a STANDALONE Tivo then you can use it for over the air (which is connected to one of the old style roof antennas), or with cable.

Now if this is a Tivo you got from DirecTV then it will NOT work with anything but DirecTV. The DirecTV Tivo's are built with Dual tuners that are specifically made for ALL digital channels which DirecTV uses.

I hope this helps, if you need any more info please send me an email.

Answer 3

Hi Angel Wings,

Sure you can use your TiVo. You simply tell it your zip code and tell it if you have basic cable or over the air. TiVo will know what channels you get and adjust accordingly.

Go here for helpful information on TiVo - http://www.iwantptv.com/tivo/tivoguide.htm

Norm

Answer 4

TiVo works with standard analog TV, see this:

http://www.tivo.com/whatistivo/whatdoyouneed/index.html

See setup and support at the TiVo web site if you lost your manual:

http://www.tivo.com/setupandsupport/index.html

Problem comes on February 18, 2009 when US no longer has analog broadcast TV. That is when you will need a HDTV or digital ready TiVo.

See:

http://www.dtv.gov

Answer 5

That depends. Some do and some don't.

What model TIVO do you have?

Examples:

Series 2 DT (Dual tuners) won't work.

Series 1 and Series 2 ST(single tuner) will work

TIVOs that are designed specifically to work with satellite receivers won't work.