Can you set TiVos manually, like a VCR? That's what I do with my DVR.

Err, yeah. I guess I could. Although I'm not sure how to do it with digital cable. I don't know if it knows what channel it's on if it doesn't have the database download. I'll have to check.

You can still select the channels by number.

You can still select the channels by number.

Hey now, there's no reason to go back to the stone age.

Speaking of fancy alternative ways to get TV, does anyone have a brand of HDTV antenna they love? We're going cable-free in the new year and need some rabbit ears!

[eta: preferably under $50. Under $30 would be even better.]

Consuela,

I am perhaps stating the obvious, but have you restarted your TiVo??

Maybe it just needs a kick in the pants.

Can your Series 1 use wireless to connect to the mothership? Did you try that?

Not for nothing, but TiVo is on sale right now.

Jessica, I don't have an HDTV but I've always had luck with Radio Shack antennas. Also, RCA makes a pretty good one.

I have not restarted in the last month or so. I shall give that a try tonight.

And no, my Series 1 is so old there is no wireless ability.

Knowing that Tivos are on sale is... tempting. Esp. since my parents just gave me a check for my birthday.

Suela, right before I moved is when I got a new TiVo. Mostly for the new tv I also got-- flatscreen is way easier to move! And if I had an HDTV, I wanted hd TiVo too...

If it's a problem with the modem, this modem replacement might help. The same folks also have a flat-rate $149 Tivo repair plan.

If it's a problem with the modem

Yeah, that's the question. And it sort of forces the issue: spend the $70 on the assumption it's the modem, or just grit my teeth for a couple months and program it by hand, or take the leap to a new one entirely.

One reason I'm reluctant to get a new Tivo is this one has a lifetime subscription on it, so I don't really want another monthly fee...