No, I have no interest in DirecTV hacking but I may have gotten some of the posts I've read mixed up. I simply want HMO!

From their FAQ:

Quote:
Is this hack protected against software updates?

Userland (U5): no longer supported,
Monte script: uses the upgradesoftware=false on the bootpage,
Prom script: uses upgradesoftware=false on the bootpage.

Do I need to make my new (un used) DirecTiVo to make a call before applying the hack?

You do not have to, but it is recommended. This way you will have the latest software.
Updates are blocked after the update (it would either damage or even undo the hack).