Access Card Basics

• Typically, you don't need to remove your access card. It's meant as an identification card for your satellite receiver. Keep it in place for the best service. The access card allows the transmission of your favorite TV shows to your receiver box. It cuts down on bootlegging satellite TV service, since each receiver must be outfitted with an approved access card to work properly. DIRECTV monitors card usage. For example, the company requires that old cards be sent back to tech support, even when you receive a new one.
  
  

Removing the Card

• The only time to remove your card is to replace it with a new one. You do this if your first card malfunctions or to give technical support more information about your card and account. While it is possible to remove the card, only do so if expressly instructed by a DIRECTV tech support agent. Otherwise, the card should stay safely tucked away behind the access door so you're able to receive service.
  
  

Bad Cards

• Sometimes an access card malfunctions, resulting in disruption of your satellite TV service. This can happen for a number of reasons, such as a deactivated card or card damage. If your card has stopped working properly, you need to remove it and contact DIRECTV customer service. After walking you through several steps to ensure that your card has malfunctioned and observing your account for unauthorized use of the card, DIRECTV typically sends you a new card to replace the one that is no longer working.
  
  

Inserting and Resetting

• If your access card is pulled out accidentally, or you received a replacement card for your receiver, reinsert the card and then reset the receiver to recalibrate the transmission data after a card has been removed. Insert the card into the slot behind the access door -- the location of which varies according to receiver models -- and then press the red reset button behind the access door. Hold the reset button down for 15 seconds. Release the button and your receiver automatically resets for the current card.