Adding DVR to a CAT5 FIOS install
stephenju
Enthusiast - Level 2

Hi

I have had FIOS for a few years. It was originally just for HSI and phone. The install was CAT5 only and I am using my own WRT54GS router. I added TV service later and do not have any Verizon STB, only a CableCARD in my TV.

Now I am thinking of adding a DVR. I know it requires MOCA connection which I don't have. Can I still order the DVR and do a self install or a truck roll is needed?

Thanks.

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Re: Adding DVR to a CAT5 FIOS install
ekem015
Specialist - Level 1

You're going to need a Verizon router added to that setup, so yes, you're going to need a tech to come. The only connection your DVR needs is a coax (cable) connection, which you obviously have since you needed to plug in your TV already. But if you have a STB in the picture, then you're going to need the router.

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Re: Adding DVR to a CAT5 FIOS install
spacedebris
Master - Level 2

You could do it yourself, if you have the skills to do it. But I would probably have a truckroll so they can test the line and make sure the signal levels are sufficient.

Right now, you have Coax from the ONT to the CC and Ethernet to the router.

You could simply split the cable between the ONT and the CC and run it to the DVR. This would work, but at this point you would not have a guide (defeats the purpose of having a DVR) Not a good situation.

You would then have to have a 3rd split to run a coax to the router. Now since you are using a linksys router, you would then need to either....

  • change to a verizon router so you have a coax connection (still using the ethernet also).  or..
  • Get a motorola nim 100 to connect the coax to the linksys.

So you need coax (RG6)...

ONT-------Splitter-----Cable card

                      |

                      |-----------DVR

                      |

                      |-----------Nim/Router

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Re: Adding DVR to a CAT5 FIOS install
ekem015
Specialist - Level 1

Spacedebris - I would assume he is dropping the cablecard if he is getting a DVR.

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Re: Adding DVR to a CAT5 FIOS install
looperz
Newbie

You will need a verzion router.  I have a similar setup with Ethernet and Coax.

     Ethernet -> My router > Switch -> Verizon Router switchport

ONT --|

     Coax -------------Splitter-----------> Verizon Router Coax

                                       |-------------> DVR

Dont forget to login to the Verizon router and turn off DHCP, or you could always connect the Ethernet to the WAN port.

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Re: Adding DVR to a CAT5 FIOS install
ekem015
Specialist - Level 1

looperz - couldn't you simplify that setup by just running coax from the ONT to the Verizon router, and then running ethernet from the Verizon router to your router (if it's wireless?). Or you could just remove your router all together, it's redundant.

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Re: Adding DVR to a CAT5 FIOS install
looperz
Newbie

How would you connect the DVR?  The only reason I am using the vz router is to provide DHCP to the DVR via the coax.

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Re: Adding DVR to a CAT5 FIOS install
ekem015
Specialist - Level 1

I mean the other router. What's wrong with just having the Verizon router?

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Re: Adding DVR to a CAT5 FIOS install
looperz
Newbie

You could just use the VZ router, but then what would be the point of adding ethernet(cat5)?  The VZ router lacks features that other routers provide.

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Re: Adding DVR to a CAT5 FIOS install
ekem015
Specialist - Level 1

Right, you wouldn't need ethernet at all.

I've never had a problem with the Verizon router, but then again, I'm not an "advanced user."

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