These DVRs have an awful user interface (UI) that make them painful to use. Finding a program to record is usually time-consuming and frustrating. After playing with one of these for a couple of months I went back to my TiVoHD [...]]]> Cablevision rents Scientific-Atlanta DVRs to their Optimum iO cable TV subscribers.

These DVRs have an awful user interface (UI) that make them painful to use. Finding a program to record is usually time-consuming and frustrating. After playing with one of these for a couple of months I went back to my TiVoHD and really appreciated how simple and elegant it is.

Cablevision recently fixed this issue by creating a web-based way for finding and selecting programs to record on iO DVRs. After you log in with your Optimum ID and password you navigate to the iO DVR link on the home page (pictured below).

This takes you to another web page that lets you control your DVR. If you have more than one you can select the one you want to program from the dropdown list on the upper right.

You can delete records, review and change scheduled recordings and select programs to record by using the three tabs at the top. Searching is easy and fast. I was able to find the next new, high-definition showing of NCIS in less than five seconds.

If you prefer to find programs to record by reviewing TV listings there is a tab for that too. Cablevision provides some pre-set filters (via buttons) that let you see only primetime shows, sports, movies, kids, and HD content. This makes it simple to find a movie to record.

I am impressed by how simple and well-implemented this website is. Props to Cablevision for fixing this user experience. I still prefer my TiVoHD. It does not require a computer to program it. But if I want to program my TiVo from a computer I can.