When using DirecTV, an error message can display as your TV does not support this program’s content protection. The message goes on to suggest that replacing the TV’s HDMI cable with component cables will allow you to view the program.
In some cases, users usually try to turn off the receiver and then back on. That makes the message disappear, but one will continue viewing pictures in 720p. When that happens, it will be impossible to see anything in 1080p.
It is worth mentioning that DirecTV does not have 1080p channels, except for a few PPV movie channels. All HD channels are either in 720p or 1080i.
How to fix TV doesn’t support program’s content protection
If you get the message that your TV does not support this program’s content protection, you can fix the error in several ways.
1. Reset your TV connection
Many channels on DirecTV feature High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP).
It is a type of copy protection that prevents the interception of audio and digital video content when it travels across DVI or HDMI interconnect cables.
If the DirecTV message appears, restart your receiver and HDTV. You can do this by turning them off for about a minute and back on again. If the error hasn’t disappeared yet, go to the next fix.
2. Reset your HDMI cable, receiver, and HDTV
If you still see the message or there is no video signal, unplug your HDMI cables, receiver, and HDTV. You should then plug them back in to see the changes.
Follow the steps below.
- Disconnect your HDMI cable from the HDTV and receiver
- Turn off the TV and receiver
- Unplug the HDTV and receiver
- Firmly reconnect the cable to the receiver. Ensure to push them to the end.
- Connect the HDTV and receiver
- Turn on the HDTV and receiver
The above steps should solve the problem. If not, consider the following options.
- Replace TV HDMI cable with component cables. Or, where possible, use a different HDMI input on the TV and repeat the steps above.
- If you have an AVR or HDMI switch, connect the receiver directly to your HDTV
If replacing the cables does not work, consider using the same cables on a different HDTV.
Read: List of DirecTV error codes
3. Disable 1080p
As noted above, DirecTV does not have many 1080p channels, and if your TV does not support 4K either, it is better to lower the resolution.
If you are getting the error message, disable 1080p on your receiver or DVR’s HDTV or video setup.
Once you disable it, change the settings to either 720p or 1080i. Try watching different channels with these new settings and find out whether
4. Update TV firmware
You may also be receiving the message because of HDMI handshake issues. Fix it by ensuring your TV has the latest software or firmware updates.
In other cases, you may need to either use component video cables or get a newer TV that supports HDCP.
Understand that with HDMI issues, your inline equipment and TV must be compatible. If it is incompatible, you will have to use component cables and not HDMI cables.
Also, if you are using the DirecTV app and you update it to version 2.0, and above, it will break your ability to use HDMI. Thus, you will get the error message “DirecTV HDMI output not supported.”
Read: App is not working on your Samsung TV? How to fix it!
When you get the message that displays as your TV does not support this program’s content protection, the primary cause, in some cases, is the HDCP protect scheme.
The problem could also be your TV or the DirecTV box. A quick fix is to reboot the whole setup, including the signal source.
I hope the above solutions have been helpful. Let me know whether they’ve solved your issue or you’re still getting the message on your screen.
I’m using component cables, but still get this message.