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Welcome to the Slingbox Classic FAQ!

This FAQ is intended to answer many of the common questions about the Slingbox Classic. Please check here, and in other articles and threads on the site to see if your question has been answered before posting in the SlingCommunity Forums.

Slingbox Classic Questions

• How do I setup the Slingbox?
• How do I obtain the latest version of the Slingbox Classic firmware?
• Can I use a different IR control cable than what's packaged?
• Why am I only getting one channel of audio?
• Does the Slingbox Classic work with High Definition devices?
• What do the lights on the Slingbox Classic mean?
• What video signals can I input into the Slingbox?
• Why is the Slingbox not controlling my device?
• How many devices can I plug into the Slingbox?
• How do I factory reset my Slingbox Classic?
• What is the maximum resolution of the Slingbox Classic?
• How much does the Slingbox Classic cost?
• How will the analog to digital transition in the United States affect my Slingbox Classic?

How do I setup the Slingbox?

Read "Installing Your Slingbox" to help you get started.

What is the current version of the Slingbox Classic firmware?

You can obtain the latest firmware for your Slingbox Classic by downloading the latest version of the SlingPlayer software. SlingPlayer versions prior to 2.0 include the firmware as part of the download. SlingPlayer software versions 2.0 and greater check for firmware updates over the web automatically. You can download the latest SlingPlayer software for your system here.

Can I use a different IR control cable than what's packaged?

Yes, you can use a different IR control cable with the Slingbox. You may need to purchase a 1/8" to 3/32" adapter to fit in the IR port on the Slingbox.

Why am I only getting one channel of audio?

Reseat the audio/video cable on the back of the Slingbox, and make sure your computer is set to output sound to both the left and the right speakers.

Does the Slingbox Classic work with High Definition devices?

Yes, but the output from your device to any US model Slingbox Classic must be in the NTSC 480i format. Not all high definition devices allow simultaneous HD and SD connections. Consult your device manual for instructions specific to your device.

What do the lights on the Slingbox Classic mean?

The far right LEDs indicate network and power status. The N in the word Sling indicates if the Slingbox is streaming video.

What video signals can I input into the Slingbox?

The Slingbox Classic can accept 480i NTSC signals through composite, S-Video, and RF connections.

Why is the Slingbox not controlling my device?

Make sure that the IR cable is plugged all the way in to the IR port on the back of the Slingbox and that the IR emitter is pointed at the IR receiver on your device. If so, check your device control setup in the SlingPlayer software or re-run the device set up wizard.

How many devices can I plug into the Slingbox?

The Slingbox Classic can support 3 devices. One through composite/S-video, one through the RF connection, and one video-only feed through the unused composite or S-video connection.

How do I factory reset my Slingbox Classic?

Press the reset button on the back of the Slingbox for five seconds or until the lights on the Slingbox Classic face begin to flash. The reboot process will take 30 seconds to 1 minute. Doing so might reset the Slingbox to an earlier firmware version, so you should check to see if you need to reinstall any upgrades.

How do I update the Slingbox's firmware?

While on your home network, select "Edit Properties" in the Slingbox directory. Click the "Slingbox Configuration" tab, and select "Update Slingbox Firmware" at the bottom. Follow the on-screen directions. For SlingPlayer 2.0 users, launch the Setup Assistant, then select "Software Update" in the left side menu.

What is the maximum resolution of the Slingbox Classic?

The Slingbox Classic is capable of streaming video to a computer at 640x240 with the latest firmware and SlingPlayer software.

How much does the Slingbox Classic cost?

The Slingbox Classic has been discontinued in the United States.

How will the analog to digital transition in the United States affect my Slingbox Classic?

US residents who rely on terrestrial (over-the-air) broadcast television will no longer be able to receive television stations on February 17, 2009 using the built-in NTSC tuner with their Slingbox Classic. In order to continue using the Slingbox Classic with over the air signals, Slingbox Classic owners will need to purchase and connect the Slingbox to a seperate digital to analog DTV tuner box.

Those who rely on basic cable service for TV delivery will need to contact their cable provider to find out if and when the DTV transition will affect them.

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