connects with 640x480

HDCP is still finicky, not just DirecTV.

What model box?

Are you connected directly to the TV?

Are you using a 'smart' power strip?

If you're TV has it, turn off HDMI-CEC.

Unplug all other HDMI devices and then red button reset.

u/cresler. We have the new Gemini, which has compatibility with HD and 4K TV’s with HDMI 2.0 and 1.4. Enjoy the industry’s best picture format at home and watch in 4K on every compatible TV. Thank you for choosing DIRECTV. Jhoan, DIRECTV Community Specialist

DirecTV 4K has required HDCP 2.2.

Also that is a Client so might be a downgrade depending on setup.

Thanks for your responses. I have 3 model C71KW-200 boxes which I believe is called Gemini. They work fine with my LG TVs, (with an occasional reset). I tried different Geminis with my new TCL TV. Currently I wait 5 seconds after power up to connect the HDMI cable. That usually works. I haven't yet found a setting for HDMI-CEC on my model QM850G TCL TV.

TV makers call it different names, DTV calls it HDMI control.

If you have the Gemini (C71KW) then you are already using the newest generation of equipment. I personally wouldn't give up a dedicated receiver for a client (Mini Genie or Gemini), but that comes down to personal needs.

Hopefully the new co-owner will innovate new equipment. Until then you deal with what you have. Though there is nothing that guarantees HDCP handshake will be perfect on both ends, just a reality until HDCP evolves to the point there is a way to standardize and make consistent the sync (if that ever happens).

Usually if the handshake isn't completed the receiver shuts the video/audio output off.

The HDMI-CEC setting did not help, thanks for the suggestion. Here is my solution: I installed the DirectTV app on my AppleTV4K. It works well.