Pioneer DVR-541HS HDD upgrade

[AngusMacGyver]

Hi!
I'm thinking on upgrading my DVR HDD unit from 160GB to 320GB. I've found some tutorials over the net showing how I could do this, but none is relative to my model (DVR-541). I'd like to know if I could use the same procedure applicable to DVR-520, 530... and if there is a different version of software CD/service remote control to my model.
Thanks in advance.

Rafael.

[orsetto]

You would use the same service remote and "Type 2" service disc recommended for other Pioneer 2006 models such as the 540-543-640. Unfortunately, your international model 541 apparently includes the G-Code on-screen broadcast program guide function, which *might* complicate the HDD upgrade tremendously. You will need to contact Hakan directly at the pioneerfaq website, I have seen instructions there for upgrading older Pioneer international models with EPG but I have not seen specific instructions for the later 540 series with G-Code.

If you email Hakan using the ask a question screen, he can confirm which instruction page on the site would apply to your unit. In the older USA models with on-screen program guide, replacing/upgrading the hard drives is very very difficult and often fails shortly after, because the program guide is located on the original HDD and requires sensitive installation on any replacement drive. Your newer 541 may use an improved guide system on a chip that is separate from the HDD: if so upgrading your HDD will be a simple swap. Ask Hakan to be sure.

[AngusMacGyver]

Thank you very much, Orsetto!
I think 541 has not EPG. At least I can't see it on user manual.
Well, I'll ask Hakan about the procedure.
Thanks again.

[Hkan]

You can read the guide that you find at:
http://www.pioneerfaq.info Click DVR in menu, then click on English flag, then click on PDF files and then on DVR-X4XH(X)

But anyway, from DVR-X4XH(X) you dont need to mix with firmwares or linux to restore the EPG on to the new HD. Pioneer did leave the system they had in DVR-x3x models, maybe due to complaint from Service Centers.
It's just straight forward to replace the HD in this model, you still off course need the right tools as Service Remote and ID Data Disc to be able to have your DVR up and runing again!

Maybe some webpages instead of PDFs would be good?

[AngusMacGyver]

Hi! Thanks, Hkan.
In fact, yesterday, with more time, I found the tutorial on your site.
Now, I have to get ID Data Disc and CCF file of service remote.
Thanks again.

Rafael.