Applies to: Original Manhattan Plaza HDR-S recorder, not Plaza HD-S, DS-100A or newer Freesat 4K boxes.
Match your symptom
| What you see | What to do next |
|---|---|
| Live TV works; recordings fail | Read free space and timer status first. |
| No live satellite picture | Use the reception guide before disk settings. |
Work through these checks
Check schedule and reception
Confirm a live channel from the same service works. Open the HDR-S recording schedule and note whether the failed programme was set, cancelled or overlapped. A signal or scheduling error is different from a full disk. Save the displayed error before changing settings.
What the result means: Do not erase recordings to troubleshoot a reception failure.
Read disk space and management
In the HDR-S menus, check remaining hard-disk space and the Auto Disk Management setting. The manual says enabling it allows old unprotected recordings to be deleted automatically; disabling it preserves them but recording stops when the disk fills. Decide based on what you want to keep.
What the result means: Automatic deletion is a trade-off, not a repair guarantee.
Avoid destructive disk actions
Do not choose Format Hard Disk Drive to test a recording failure: the manual says it erases all programmes. If disk space appears normal yet recording still fails, document the exact error and ask Manhattan support; do not open a powered receiver or replace its internal drive yourself.
What the result means: Preserve the disk until a qualified repairer advises.
When to stop and get help
Stop for a burning smell, exposed mains wiring, water near the receiver or any request to format wanted recordings. Use qualified service for internal hardware.
What to tell support
Exact HDR-S model; live channel; failed programme and schedule; free space; Auto Disk Management setting; exact error.
Common questions
Will formatting the HDR-S disk make my old recordings accessible?
No. The Plaza HDR-S manual says formatting erases all recorded programmes.
Original troubleshooting guidance based on the official sources below. Menu names can change. This is an independent guide, not a manufacturer service bulletin or a bench-tested repair.