TiVo Community Forums Archives - How hard to install cachecard...really.

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How hard to install cachecard...really.
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Posted by: tivolovit

Well,
I think I am ready to take the plunge to network my T60, but it is so slow. So I figured a cachecard with network interface should do the trick right. OK here is my problem. The only hacks I have done to my TiVos are drive space. Hardware and software don't scare me but I am completely unfamiliar with Linux. Give me a wintel box and I am all over it, but Linux just isn't something I have had to tackle. Without all of your boot CDs, tools and scripts I would still have a bunch of 35hr TiVos for me, my family, and friends.

OK, so really, I can install the cachecard hardware in a snap, NO PROBLEM. But how automated/documented is it to install the software and additional "hacks" to get it running. Will most of this be done in my PC while my TiVo drive is attached or through serial bash (do I need to Monte my TiVo?) via a cable to my TiVo from a PC or what? You see I have those questions. Then I guess I will need to setup my router to get to it from the outside world so I can use TiVoWeb (one major reason I want to network), which SHOULD be easy enough, then I just have to point to my external_IP_Address:PORT right...or does it work some other way?

Any input would be appreciated, I am sure I could do it, just wondering if my unfamiliarity with Linux should cause me any problems.

Thanks in advance for you help,

Posted by: tivoupgrade

Its not hard, if you follow the instructions . A little easier if you use our boot CD latest drivers and install utility are on there.

Posted by: tivolovit

quote:
Originally posted by tivoupgrade
Its not hard, if you follow the instructions . A little easier if you use our boot CD latest drivers and install utility are on there.

So are the instructions labeled "CacheCARD - PC installation Instructions" on the first link you supplied (instructions) basically the same process that happens with the bootdisk? And then, and this may be a dumb question, is TiVoWEB just there then or I imagine that is a different install? I have no real reason to do this except for TiVoWEB (of course I once said I have no need for any other hack than drive space:))

comments?

Posted by: tivoupgrade

quote:
Originally posted by tivolovit
So are the instructions labeled "CacheCARD - PC installation Instructions" on the first link you supplied (instructions) basically the same process that happens with the bootdisk? And then, and this may be a dumb question, is TiVoWEB just there then or I imagine that is a different install? I have no real reason to do this except for TiVoWEB (of course I once said I have no need for any other hack than drive space:))

comments?

Well, definitely read those instructions, and poke around on the bootdisk, and it will all be pretty obvious (you still need to run the installation scripts).

TiVoWeb is completely separate. Once you've got your unit up and running, you can use ftp and telnet to install TiVoWeb manually, or just use the NetReady stuff here.

You still have to do your reading and don't try anything on blind faith; just take it step by step, and make sure you have a backup of your system drive in case you make a mistake.

Posted by: HerbM

My primary skills are in Windows also: you mention "all over Wintel".

If you are strictly a "GUI guy" you will have more trouble -- or at least doubt -- than if you are comfortable at the command line, finding your way around subdirectories, and with scripting.

The tools are mostly automated but the moment you try to go beyond the tools to custmize your choices or to understand exactly what they do then you will need to be comfortable with command line tools and with "switch settings" that are likely a bit more complicated than you are used to on DOS/NT+.

You can do it, but be willing to read, re-read, and ask questions; most of the people here will answer questions even if they are naive -- they certainly have answered most of mine.

Herb

Posted by: tivolovit

Thanks for the info. I am plenty comfortable with command line, scripts, registry, switches, etc., as I am an old DOS/Novell/NT/OS2 "hack". I also programmed for several years so my caution comes from KNOWING I could screw something up if not careful. I don't do anything from a GUI that I can do from a command line, I hate all of the windows and drilling down, I can type it much faster and just get it done and never have to reach for the mouse. I am just lost in Linux (and UNIX for that matter), don't know my way around. But I completely understand what you are both saying. It is all there, just read, re-read, take it step by step. GOT IT! I read lots around here and that is what gets my interest up, then I go, "NAH! I won't use the caller ID anyway", etc. But TiVoWEB is one that keeps cropping up in my head and there has been more than one occasion where I REALLY wish I had it. So, that is my motivation to dig deeper. I've been keeping my SONY around just for such a project even though I've since upgraded all of my others to Series IIs. I figure when D* gets around to enabling our USB ports I will do the others if I am successful on the SONY. I don't think I want to get into the hacks to allow the USB to work on the Series II so that I can get networking going...sounds like a PAIN (read as MUCH MORE READING). I guess I will go ahead and send my order in. I am sure you will hear how it goes.

Oh, and of course I have a drive dedicated to backups of my TiVos! I have backups of all of my freinds/family TiVos and mine, and some I don't even own anymore. Kind of like my own little TiVo image repository. Hey, I am a professional, you ALWAYS need to have a backout plan. ;)

Thanks again guys,

Posted by: StanSimmons

You can put TiVoWeb on your Series II's. Do a google search for "monte freebies directivo sleeper"

The "two card monte" hack will let you install USB/Ethernet adapters and add most of the hacks that are available for the Series I TiVo's to the Series II TiVo's.