thanks for the reply. i purchased the cable version. the actual back of the 600 is kitted out with a cable entry. the cable fits. the diagrams i have seen so far show the different tuners with different 'entry points'. it looks like a cable box.

what is firmsware and why do the boxes need to be updated? should i try this or will i cause more problems?

I have obtained a new 600 pvr. I have tried to set it up but it cannot detect the cable input. I can see some menus and the unit scans for transponders..... but it does not detect the cable feed. any advice would be welcome please. thanks clive