How Does a Direct TV Card Work?
- DirecTV calls this card an “Access Card,” because it provides the subscriber with access to the DirecTV system. When you first install your receiver, the card may not work. The card requires activation by DirecTV to properly function. This activation necessitates a call to DirecTV so the technician on the other end can send a signal to your specific receiver and activate the card.
- If you receive a screen message that indicates an invalid access card, you must power down the system and unplug it from the wall for 15 seconds. Plug the system back in and turn on the power. This will require a re-authorization of your DirecTV system requiring you to log on to your DirecTV account from the Internet or by calling 1-800-531-5000.
- If your card is expired, you will receive a screen message indicating this. Generally, DirecTV sends out the card before expiration, but a card can expire before that. If your account is current and paid up to date, contact DirecTV immediately for an updated card.
- From time to time, when DirecTV upgrades its system, it will send out a new access card to utilize the system’s new features and to thwart card thieves. When you receive a new access card, remove the old card from the receiver after turning it off. Tap on the front of the box on the door that covers the access card. Open the door all the way and slide the old access card out of its slot. Insert the new card into the slot and power up the device. You may need to call DirecTV customer service for reactivation.
- Some thieves sell forged access cards to users of the DirecTV and other satellite television systems that allow the user to receive subscriptions to programs for which he doesn’t pay. This is an illegal practice and can result in severe fines, penalties and criminal charges in some cases. Only accept the DirecTV verified access cards for your system to avoid these problems.