A tivo S3 can obtaining the programming data over either a regular phone line or an IP network. My S3 is currently using my cable company's broadband IP connection to obtain it's programming data.

I am not sure about a DSL network connection nor a tivo box older than the S3, but you might be able to find the answer to both of these on tivocommunity.com. 

Tigerlilly said:

I read on in the article that a DVR can be used off of cable, satellite, antenna etc.  My question is this - we have regular t.v., no cable, just regular programming.  If we were to replace the ancient VCR with a DVR unit, how would the unit need to be hooked up to "call out" to get the programming?  Would this be done through the DSL line?

Thanks!

Series1 TiVo DVR systems require an analog phone line which is used to make a daily call to download the program guide information.  Series1 TiVo DVR systems can be upgraded with a network card (TurboNet, or CacheCard) which will allow you to make that daily call using your broadband connection (the TiVo just connects to your network like any other computer in your environment).

Series2 TiVo DVR systems can use an analog phone line, or can be very easily connected to your home network using a compatible USB Ethernet adapter (or a USB wireless adapter).

Series3 TiVo DVR systems can also use an analog phone line for its daily call, or it can be directly connected to your home nework using a standard Ethernet patch cable; this units have a built in Ethernet adapter.  They can also be connected to your network wirelessly with a wireless USB network adapter.

For answers to commonly asked questions, please refer to the
InstantCake Instructions and Release Notes,
Official InstantCake Discussion Thread, and the
Official PTVnet Discussion Thread

You can use the manual mode to program it, but if you want to get the guides and any program data you'll have to buy a subscription service. IMO, the subscription is worth it. But there's no reason you can't just check out what's coming up on your cable guide and program your TiVo from that information, sans service.