DescentBB

I’m thinking of connecting my new HD DVR to my home LAN for On Demand Video, Right now the router is on the second floor about 75 feet from my Media Box and DVR. The PC is connected to the router with a 75 ft Cat5 cable.

Now the question is…

Can I use a switch at the PC to connect the DVR, or do I have to run another 75ft Cat5 cable upstairs, and hook to an open port on the router?

It should be just fine. Ethernet won't jump more than 4 switches without help but since you're only dealing with 2 you won't have a problem.

I'm not aware that DVR's will hook up to a LAN. The ethernet ports on the back of them are generally for local testing and troubleshooting in a repair lab.

Some manufactures (such as Motorola) have an ethernet port on board for internet access (as they have a cable modem built in) but they don't have the programming in place to support that yet.

This DVR supports both “On Demand” & “Media Share”. And thanks for reminding me, there are in fact 2 ports on this unit…perhaps a built in switch….

No, I don't know of any manufaturers that do that, one is a console port, the other is your ethernet then. What make/model is your dvr?

I looked it up, only one port is active, the other one is as they say…superfluous.

I have the same thing capm - that is a HD DVR that allows you to download \"On Demand\" content off the internet. (its not TRUE onDemand, cause you have to download it first, but it does not take long).

Spidey - The switch may be your best option.

I didn't have ANY network ports running to my living room, so im using one of these devices:
http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications ... &CatId=211

Works just dandy as long as both outlets are going directly into the wall, and not on a powerstrip or surge protector.

(Mine came with an old ISP i used to have service with. Tried to return them but they said to just keep them)

BTW.. Mine is with DirecTV, and the HD-DVR has an ESATA port on the back to plug up an external Hard Drive to save shows/movies on. Its pretty sweet.

I just got my switch via UPS, so when I hook it up, I will let ya know how it works out.

Works like a charm.

Thanks!