Using IR extender

[Wilanddij]

I have Technicolor 9865 cable box and need to use an IR extender because my box needs to mount behind the tv. When I hook it up, stuff like ON DEMAND and SEARCH do not work. Also a reboot produces “ER-21” and halts. Works fine w/o the extender.

[MsRaye]

Is this an optical extener or a simple plug in remote IR receiver dongle?

[karlbeckman]

Is there a technical reason that your box MUST be located behind the TV?  Or is it just a cosmetic preference?  If the coax or HDMI cable is too short, you can buy a longer one.  In some markets TWC/Spectrum will provide one of each 6 feet long free with your set-top converter. 

[Wilanddij]

Its both technical and cosmetic.  The TV will hang on a wall with no shelves around it, and longer coax is not going to solve the problem. 

I notice the user's manual indicates that an approved IR extender should be included in the carton.  My installer did not indicate there was one, and the in-store tech said Spectrum does not support any.  I tried a different dongle today, and got different results on my receiver, but still not satisfactory.

Just for giggles, what are the approved IR extender cables for this box?  If I can find one I'll certainly be happy to purchase it.  Thanks for your help.

[rjp615]

I have the same issue... as long as you disconnect the IR extender when the box is booting, you'll be able to use it.  Sucks when the box reboots though.

[Wilanddij · Accepted solution]

Yeah, I have mine working now, but will have to go through the same thing on reboot.  But, I need a ladder to reach it