I had the same problem - stuck on # 3 of setup wizard "downloading software". My installer went through 2 different Hoppers, still no-go. THEN he discovered a wiring error where he had hooked up the node to some coax that HAD been used in my previous install, as a power for a wing dish (to get 61.5...I too was on the Western arc, except for some HD and my locals) ...anyway, Hopper #3 did the trick. It seems that the powered coax may well have fried the first 2 Hoppers. I'm REALLY surprised that they don't have blockers or polarity reversal protectors in there...but that seems to have fixed my particular problem. I'm also quite surprised that so many (seemingly?) different problems end up as the #3 setup wizard problem. Without a progress bar, it is VERY frustrating as you wait for HOURS, when the message says "this may take up to 20 minutes". Now both my Joey's are working, but programming the remotes for them to control the TV is frustrating. I'm not familiar with the newer "40" remotes and the smaller "TV" power button. When you press the TV mode button, it won't stay lit, but instead jumps back to the SAT button ...in reality, the remote WILL control the volume of the TV while in SAT mode and (intermittently?) allows you to turn the TV off if you hit the small TV power button. Last issue is gaining access to my wireless router. I get great wireless reception with m laptop, while it's 2 ft away from my Hopper, but my Hopper has a very low router signal strength, and will not sync with the router - so for now, no Blockbuster and ...honestly I don't know what else I'm missing without the router connection. All in all - a VERY frustrating 8 hour (over 2 days) install but a GREAT picture and improved signal strength over my Dish 1000 - also too many new features to figure out for now - but I'm enjoying them as I learn them.
