[mythtv-users] Serial control of RCA DirecTV box -- should I bother?

[Rich West]

H P Ladds wrote:
> Hey All,
>
> I'm giving this project another try.  I'm experimenting with the "LOW
> SPEED DATA" port on my DirecTV Box (model # DRD523RB). I've connected
> to the DirecTV box via a nine pin serial connector.
>
> I have no idea how to looks for signs of life on the port.
>
> Perhaps the info below will be helpful.
>
> Thanks,
>
> root at mythboxen# cat /dev/proc/ttyS?
> /dev/ttyS0
> /dev/ttyS1
> /dev/ttyS2
> /dev/ttyS3
> /dev/ttyS4

Linux serial ports are numbered starting with 0 for your first on-board 
serial port.  For example, /dev/ttyS0 will be your "Serial Port 1", 
/dev/ttyS1 will be your 2nd serial port, and so on.

If you are using a USB to Serial port adapter, they are available via 
/dev/ttyUSB0, /dev/ttyUSB1, and so on.


For making a proper cable, check out:
http://www.mythtv.org/wiki/index.php/Controlling_DirecTV_Set_Top_Box_%28STB%29_via_USB_or_Serial

-Rich