This thread is for discussion of the TDC787X (aka Aspen), TDC776D (aka Aspen Embedded), DC700X (aka Apache), and DC758D (Summit or Baker).

Firmware release notes (when available) can be found here:


TDC787X (aka Aspen) (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=14384853#post14384853)
TDC776D (aka Aspen Embedded) (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1077487)
DC700X (aka Apache) (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1088438)


Online Manuals


TDC787X (aka Aspen) (http://www.pace.com/media/generic/PDF/manuals/tdc787x_manual.pdf)
TDC776D (aka Aspen Embedded) (http://www.pace.com/media/generic/PDF/manuals/tdc776d_manual.pdf)
DC700X (aka Apache) (http://www.pace.com/media/generic/PDF/manuals/dc700x_manual.pdf)
DC758D (aka Summit/Baker) (http://www.pace.com/media/generic/PDF/manuals/dc758d_manual.pdf)


The TDC787X (aka Aspen) uses removable conditional access (i.e. CableCARD) and is deployed in the United States. The TDC776D (aka Aspen Embedded) and DC758D (Summit) use embedded conditional access and is used by cable providers outside of the U.S.

DC700X (aka Apache) and DC758D (Summit or Baker) do not come with an internal HDD, but an eSATA drive may be attached to it to enable DVR functionality. Like Aspen, Apache uses removable conditional access.

FAQ:

1. How do I get into diagnostics?

To get to those diagnostics, press the power button, then press the select button within two seconds. To leave, press the power button.

2. What is the largest supported eSATA drive?

Older firmware releases will only recognize ~700GB. Larger drives will work, but only ~700GB will be recognized.

The latest maintenance release supports 1TB and larger drives.

3. Has Pace certified any eSATA drives?

Yes, the following drives have been tested and verified to function properly:


Western Digital MyDVR Expander (WDG1S5000)
Seagate DVR Expander (ST30500SCA109-RK)
iOmega DVR (34172)


4. How can I format the internal or eSATA HDD?

While on the main diagnostics page (not the dashboard page), press

Repeat
MyDVR*
MyDVR*
MyDVR*
LIVE

*MyDVR may be LIST on your remote depending on your cable provider

this will bring up a screen where you can select the drive to format and subsequently format the drive. After a few seconds, the box will reboot. After reboot, the drive will be available for use (the format is a two phase process so the initial format GUI may appear to be very quick).

Be aware that formatting the drive can't be undone and you will lose all the content on the drive. Do not use this screen unless absolutely necessary.

5. What are the discrete Power On/Off codes?


HEX 4A (0x4A) for Power On
HEX 4B (0x4B) for Power Off


6. Why is TV Guide indicating that my disk is not full when its definitely not full?

This is a bug in the guide. Most of the time, the only way to resolve it is to reboot your box. Sometimes (but very rarely) if you delete a recording, it may recover and get out of the error state.

7. How do I get into Pace User Settings?

Press the Power Button on the remote and then Menu. This will allow you to change a variety of settings. Press the Power button to return to live TV.

8. What is the PowerMenu?

It is the same as Pace User Settings (older name for the same function).

Does anybody have the specs for this unit? How big is the HD? How many tuners? Can it take an external Hard Drive? Etc.

Thanks,
Brenden

Brenden,

How big is the HD?

160GB.

How many tuners?

2

Can it take an external Hard Drive?

Yes.

Basically, its very similar in many ways to the existing MPEG-2 boxes (778 and 779).

Hi I just installed a 787 from my cable company this week and I love it.
before that I had the 778. the reason I did the swap is that i tried to connect it (778) via an hdmi switcher to a hdmi to component converter. the reason being I have 4 units all with hdmi and component jacks. I have a tv with one component and no hdmi jacks. I had the converter connected to a blu ray player and everything worked fine. I hooked it and the cable box and a hddvd player to the switcher and the converter and all worked fine except the pace 778. that box apparently shut down and all I got was sound and a green screen. I restored it to a component out but there was still no picture. I am told that possibly it was hdcp kicking in. I don't know but I had to swap the box. My goal was to eliminate some clutter and some intermediate steps in my system.
I still want to do that and am considering a new a/v receiver with hdmi and component connectors. I would then connect the hd disk players via hdmi and the pace box via component and use the hdmi out on the receiver to the hdmi converter to go into the component connection on the tv.
you may ask why I just dont replace the tv. that would be ideal but this one is not that old and works superbly. it just predates hdmi by less than two years I think.
I have a zektor 5.1 audio switcher for the hddvd and bluray player to get hidef sound decoded. It also has hdmi inputs. I also have a component switcher which is what I was hoping to eliminate by going all hdmi and doing the hdmi to component conversion at the tv.
My question is:
Did I brick the 778 by my attempt to use the hdmi workaround? And if so will I do the same thing to the 787 if I try to go to an a/v receiver and use it to switch the component to hdmi and then back again at the tv?
My intentions are not to violate copyrights. I want to reduce switch clutter and get the full benefit of upconversion that comes with hd disk players, given the limits of my system. there is no benefit to using the cable box's hcmi, I know, but i must channel all four boxes down to one component. that is a given.

Hi I just installed a 787 from my cable company this week and I love it.

Out of curiosity, what are the features you like?

I restored it to a component out but there was still no picture. I am told that possibly it was hdcp kicking in.

There is no HDCP over component so that can't be the issue.

Did I brick the 778 by my attempt to use the hdmi workaround?

I'm not sure if I fully understand what you did, but I doubt you damaged the box. If the component isn't working, you either just have bad cables or a bad 778. Do you get video from the RCA or S-Video jacks on the 778?

I suppose its possible that the component switcher could have sent a surge and blown out the 778, but I've never heard of such a thing happening before.

Maybe it would be helpful if you drew a diagram of how you're trying to connect all this stuff together.

Is there a photo of this box anywhere? While I have Comcast, and they seem to be in bed with Motorola, I still like to follow what other manufacturers are doing.

Neighboring cable operator "Service Electric Cablevision" however does issue some Pace cable card HD-DVR's. There is a good chance of moving into their territory, as they are close and have a nice size footprint.

[QUOTE=lindend;14444626]Out of curiosity, what are the features you like?

actually the features are pretty much the same, what i like are the cosmetics. the black box, the smaller size, the front panel. I did find it was easier to get into setup using the power and menu buttons. the rest seems identical but I haven't played with it that much.

what I did was to disconnect the pace box 778 from component and attach it via hdmi to a switcher. From the switcher I ran a hdmi cable to a small box that connected to the hdmi, performed the handshake, then converted the signal to component to allow it to connect to my tv. I did all this not for the sake of a better picture from the cable box, but because i had the bluray and hddvd player which will only upconvert through hdmi. Given that I have only one component hd connection on my tv I had to switch to hdmi on everything. it was at that point that i lost the picture on the pace 778. All I got was a green screen. Seeing that that apparently wouldn't work for the pace box I restored everything back to the original component connections, but the pace box still wouldn't send a picture. At that point I discussed the issue with some friends at the local tweeter store and they said that they run into this issue when they are doing installations. the cable boxes don't like to go through converters or switches that do conversions from hdmi to component. I don't know how accurate that is but I am left with not knowing if I can do the conversion using an A/v receiver.
I would draw a picture but I am not sure how in this forum. i realize it is a complicated setup, mainly owing to the movie industry and government imposing restrictions. My wife has warned me not to die because she wont be able to figure it out or fix it.

I just installed an Apricorn 1tb xpander hard drive on the pace 787. all went well, but the drive lists as 668 gig. Is there a limit to what the 787 will recognize or should I talk to apricorn?

I just installed an Apricorn 1tb xpander hard drive on the pace 787. all went well, but the drive lists as 668 gig. Is there a limit to what the 787 will recognize or should I talk to apricorn?

The 787 has the same limitation that the 775, 778 and 779 have. No more than ~750GB is currently usable on an eSATA drive. This limitation has been discussed extensively on the Pace CableCARD boxes thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=903826) and also the 775 thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=659367).

My cable company (Service Electric) recently changed me to this box (TDC787x) and hooked it up the same way as my previous box (do not have the previous model number). I have a Bose 321GSX audio system. When hooked up using the optical cable the audio drops when changing channels. So I need to either power cycle my Bose or simply change the audio input from TV to CBL/SAT to get the sound to pick-up. I've had the technicians here twice but they admit that they just got the box and really do not know why this is occuring - they basically said that no one uses the optical cable. If its hooked up with the RCA cables it works fine but I still need to change the input to get it to pick up the Dolby Digital signal. There are occassions when I change channels from a Dolby channel to another Dolby channel when the audio does not drop out - but it is rare.

Any ideas? I've gone through all of the settings and basically I am at a loss.

hooked it up the same way as my previous box

Did you have a Pace box previously?

My cable company (Service Electric) recently changed me to this box (TDC787x) and hooked it up the same way as my previous box (do not have the previous model number). I have a Bose 321GSX audio system. When hooked up using the optical cable the audio drops when changing channels.

Does the drop out occur when you switch between PCM and Dolby Digital (or visa versa) or can it happen when its Dolby Digital to Dolby Digital?

If its happening on audio format switches, you can go to the Pace User Settings and force HDMI audio to be PCM. If that solves the problem, we can figure out what do next.

Did you have a Pace box previously?

Yes, my previous box was a Pace - but I do not remember the model number. My cable company just refered to it as the silver box. They actually called the new box the Aspen. The previous box was replaced because we had a lot of issues with the DVR (primarily audio dropping during playback and tiling). I cannot remember anything specific with the audio. All that I know is when the second technician came out to check my audio complaint the RCA cables were not plugged into the Bose.


Does the drop out occur when you switch between PCM and Dolby Digital (or visa versa) or can it happen when its Dolby Digital to Dolby Digital?

It appears to happen at anytime when changing the channels. I have had some success changing between two Dolby channels and not losing the audio signal but not all the time. I spend most of my viewing time in the HD end - where all the channels are primarily Dolby. I would say that I lose audio more than I ever keep it.


If its happening on audio format switches, you can go to the Pace User Settings and force HDMI audio to be PCM. If that solves the problem, we can figure out what do next.

The technician tried several settings. I just attempted to change the Audio Oput Mode: to L-PCM. And the Disable Auto Detect: to Yes and No. Both with the same result - no change to original complaint. Making this change causes the audio to drop immediatly and the forces me to change the inputs to the Bose to regain the sound.

I hope this helps gives more clarity to my issue - please let me know if you have any additional questions.

They actually called the new box the Aspen.

Aspen is the aka for this product (see the first post in this thread).


The technician tried several settings. I just attempted to change the Audio Oput Mode: to L-PCM.

Actually, upon reflection, changing this setting isn't going to help you. It won't affect S/PDIF output, only HDMI. Sorry for asking you to try that option.

And the Disable Auto Detect: to Yes and No.

Please don't change that setting. It won't help this issue and could be problematic in the future if you ever try to use HDMI.

I hope this helps gives more clarity to my issue - please let me know if you have any additional questions.

I'm afraid I still don't fully understand the problem.

When the audio loss occurs, if you power cycle the receiver, is the audio restored?

Also, do you have an HDMI connection on your TV? If so, can you try it and see if you are experiencing the audio drop outs there too?

Actually, upon reflection, changing this setting isn't going to help you. It won't affect S/PDIF output, only HDMI. Sorry for asking you to try that option.

No worries, at this point I would try anything - except going back to my previous box.


Please don't change that setting. It won't help this issue and could be problematic in the future if you ever try to use HDMI.

Got it - will not change this one!


I'm afraid I still don't fully understand the problem.

Audio will drop out when changing between channels. The only possible exception is when going between Dolby Digitial channels but this is rare - even channels that have audio in Dolby will drop out and I can either power cycle the receiver or switch audio inputs on the receiver for it to pick back up.

When the audio loss occurs, if you power cycle the receiver, is the audio restored?

Yes, audio is restored when the Bose unit is power cycled. However changing from CABLE/SAT (where the box is connected) to TV (hooked to nothing) and return will do the same thing.

Also, do you have an HDMI connection on your TV? If so, can you try it and see if you are experiencing the audio drop outs there too?

Unfortunately, I do not have a HDMI connection on my TV. I am using a HDMI to DVI cable. I did consider changing to component but that would be crazy considering how much I spent on the cable.

Yes, audio is restored when the Bose unit is power cycled. However changing from CABLE/SAT (where the box is connected) to TV (hooked to nothing) and return will do the same thing.

This input is for the Bose correct? So power cycling restores audio and switching inputs restores audio. By any chance, do you have (or can you borrow) another audio receiver?

The symptoms are sounding like an audio receiver issue dealing with the input stream and we could rule it out by using a different receiver. However, you indicated that the old Pace box worked with this config, which would tend to say it isn't an issue with the Bose. Very unusual problem.

Unfortunately, I do not have a HDMI connection on my TV.

The reasons I was asking is that HDMI and S/PDIF typically get the same digital audio stream. If HDMI worked, that would point the finger at the receiver.

No worries, at this point I would try anything - except going back to my previous box.

BTW, have you tried a different optical cable? I've seen optical cables cause sound cut outs when they go bad.

The 787 has the same limitation that the 775, 778 and 779 have. No more than ~750GB is currently usable on an eSATA drive. This limitation has been discussed extensively on the Pace CableCARD boxes thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=903826) and also the 775 thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=659367).

I have finally finished most of those threads. I am left with not knowing with any certainty which drive will work on the 787. I am thinking of trying the tivo mybook. I do hope that some of the sata issues with the older units have been addressed and this box is more tolerant.

Also, I have read of people using drives and connecting them directly to the pace box (without an enclosure???). If so how is power supplied to the drive. Or am I totally misreading the posts?

Lastly to simplify things with my setup let me try this:
If I connect the 787 to a pioneer or sony av receiver via component and then output via hdmi and reconvert to component at the tv will I run into hdcp issues?
again the reason I am looking at this is because I have hdmi and component players and only have one component input on the tv. I want the upconverting capability of the bluray players and of the new av receivers which is only available through hdmi but I do not want to eliminate my component only units.
Hope this helps.

I have finally finished most of those threads. I am left with not knowing with any certainty which drive will work on the 787. I am thinking of trying the tivo mybook.

The Western Digital MyDVR Expander has been tested on the 787 and verified to work on the 11.05-11.14 firmware releases. In general, an eSATA-only drive will work without a problem. Its the combo eSATA/USB drives that are problematic.

I do hope that some of the sata issues with the older units have been addressed and this box is more tolerant.

The issues that have been encountered are due to bugs in the combo drive's firmware (not the Pace boxes so there are no fixes in this area in the 787). When/if the drive firmware is fixed, they should work fine with any Pace cable box.

Also, I have read of people using drives and connecting them directly to the pace box (without an enclosure???). If so how is power supplied to the drive. Or am I totally misreading the posts?

They are obtaining power from another source, not the set top box.

Lastly to simplify things with my setup let me try this:
If I connect the 787 to a pioneer or sony av receiver via component and then output via hdmi and reconvert to component at the tv will I run into hdcp issues?

Not from the 787. If you use the component signal from the 787, there will be no HDCP errors.

Howevever, I can't tell you if your sony a/v receiver will or won't have HDCP issues with the tv since its sony hardware/software. Sorry.

The Western Digital MyDVR Expander has been tested on the 787 and verified to work on the 11.05-11.14 firmware releases. In general, an eSATA-only drive will work without a problem. Its the combo eSATA/USB drives that are problematic.


Howevever, I can't tell you if your sony a/v receiver will or won't have HDCP issues with the tv since its sony hardware/software. Sorry.

Thanks very much. I did get the wd mydvr from best buy today, and will try it this weekend.

I am leaning toward the Pioneer anyway. I have had pioneer receivers since 1967 and have had no problems. I see no reason to switch now. but Money will be a bigger factor than anything.

I would be interested in how some of the people do power bare drives if any are reading this.

I had a visit today from some higher level technicians and a local Pace engineer that was brought in to examine my situation. The good news is that they think they identified the problem - which was found in the Pace box. It appears that the audio refresh when changing channels was not quick enough and lagged even more on the HD channels which caused the audio to drop. They tested another "Aspen" in the local shop on a cheaper audio receiver with an optical input and it did not have the issue, but the Bose was less forgiving.

For now, they replaced my box with a newer (MUCH BIGGER) Motorola box until they can update the firmware to speed up the refresh time. At that time they will bring the Aspen back and see if it fixes my issue. The Motorola box did not have any issues when changing channels - which I was glad to see because at least it confirmed that I am not 100% crazy.

Thanks again for all your input and advice here. When I receive the working Pace box back I will report the results here. I am also excited about the external drive - which is not a possibility now with the Motorola - so I am looking forward to the return of my Pace box.

The good news is that they think they identified the problem - which was found in the Pace box. It appears that the audio refresh when changing channels was not quick enough and lagged even more on the HD channels which caused the audio to drop.

I'm afraid there's been a misunderstanding of the current state of this problem. What was verified was a valid signal was sent to the Bose in all cases, but there may be some timing differences between Aspen and other platforms in how quickly this information is given to the Bose (and the Bose is not reacting well to this difference).

They tested another "Aspen" in the local shop on a cheaper audio receiver with an optical input and it did not have the issue, but the Bose was less forgiving.

You are correct in that many receivers (both low and high end) have been tested and verified and none are exhibiting the problem. We are not seeing any out of spec signals being transmitted in testing. We have nothing conclusive at this point, but the Bose still appears to be the cause of this particular problem.

A quick search reveals that Bose has similar issues with other devices:

Bose 321 audio dropout with Toshiba (http://en.allexperts.com/q/Home-Theater-2859/BOSE-321-optical-connection.htm)
Issues with Samsung (http://forums.logitech.com/logitech/board/message?board.id=programming&message.id=14085)

The Motorola box did not have any issues when changing channels - which I was glad to see because at least it confirmed that I am not 100% crazy.


This is in fact puzzling. Our investigation continues, but wanted to make sure that you understand that we've not identified any fault in Aspen software to this point so a firmware fix is not on the immediate horizon. Sorry to have to break this disappointing news.

I will keep you posted as we find out more.

I have the 787 and a tivo external 500 g hdd attached esata.
the problem is this: a number of times now I have tried to record programs back to back on the hallmark hd channel and none recorded. two times I got the first one and not the second. I know both were set. I have recorded other shows and, when I went to watch them, all that was there was two seconds or four seconds of black screem and then the message to delete or not the program. this has happened a number of times. when this happens, I generally get an error that I cannot delete the program. I have successfully recorded many other shows some at the same time. I know it can work and it can work on back to back shows as well. But it only takes one failure to frustrate. there have been too many failures though.
"Blackbeard" was one of the programs on the hallmark channel that I tried to record. It was a part one and two 4 hours in all and i got 4 seconds of black screen. "The curse of king tuts tomb" was another where I got part one and not part 2.
there have been two times in which I would open the dvr screen and all the recorded shows indicated they were only 2-4 seconds long when I tried to play them. after shutting off the 787 and restarting it they were all there.
the status screen indicates that the external hdd is fine .
what am I doing or not doing.

9/13/8
it happened again last night
I started watching a special on history hd called 102 minutes that changed the world. I started taping that in the middle where I started watching it so i could finish the next day. then I saw that it was being repeated again later. I set that up to tape.
last night when I went to watch it, the one I started in the middle was fine. the second one told me that the recording was interrupted and some of the program might be lost. it was. the program indicated that only 30 minutes taped and in fact it ended after 4 minutes. we did not have any power failure and my home theater is on battery backup anyway. is this a cable box issue or a cable company issue?

I have the 787 and a tivo external 500 g hdd attached esata.
the problem is this: a number of times now I have tried to record programs back to back on the hallmark hd channel and none recorded.

Pretty sure this is a known problem, but let me confirm first. When this happens, do you see a OMP (One Moment Please) if you try to swap tuners or force a recording on the background tuner?

If you do see it, a fix is being tested in our labs and it is unrelated to eSATA, same bug can surface with the internal HDD.


it was. the program indicated that only 30 minutes taped and in fact it ended after 4 minutes. we did not have any power failure and my home theater is on battery backup anyway. is this a cable box issue or a cable company issue?

This 4 minute recording sounds like a separate issue from completely missing a recording. When a recording is interrupted, it typically happens because the box rebooted. Do you know if the box rebooted in that time frame?

Pretty sure this is a known problem, but let me confirm first. When this happens, do you see a OMP (One Moment Please) if you try to swap tuners or force a recording on the background tuner?

If you do see it, a fix is being tested in our labs and it is unrelated to eSATA, same bug can surface with the internal HDD.


This 4 minute recording sounds like a separate issue from completely missing a recording. When a recording is interrupted, it typically happens because the box rebooted. Do you know if the box rebooted in that time frame?

1. I recall seeing that message but I don't know that it was directly related to swapping tuners during recording. most of the time I am not watching when the recordings start.
2. Again I am usually in bed (i was for this one - 102 minutes.) when this happens so I don't know. I did have one program that recorded in two parts and the first part (27 min) said that the recording was interrupted. the second part (32 min) was the second recording. all i missed that time was in a commercial.

why would my box just reboot?

1. I recall seeing that message but I don't know that it was directly related to swapping tuners during recording. most of the time I am not watching when the recordings start.

Sounds like its likely that its the same bug then.

why would my box just reboot?

Its a bug. Easiest way to find out if/when you see another interrupted recording is to look at the box uptime in diagnostics. With this info, we can try to figure out what is going wrong.

9/13/8
it happened again last night

It turns out that you should already have a firmware release with the OMP fix. Have you had a completely missed recording since last Tuesday?

Edit: I've updated the TDC787X release note thread with the details on this fix and other fixes in the last software release.

It turns out that you should already have a firmware release with the OMP fix. Have you had a completely missed recording since last Tuesday?

Edit: I've updated the TDC787X release note thread with the details on this fix and other fixes in the last software release.

I don't think I've missed any lately but I'm not sure. the partial ones are still around though. I had another chance to tape 102 minutes last night (sunday)and it looks like that went well.
thanks

it's been a couple of days now and I have recorded a number of shows including back to back and som on both tuners at the same time. all of them seem to have recorded perfectly.
thanks, things are good again

I have noticed a number of times lately where a recording will start on time, record for one minute, and then stop and start again in a few minutes. the last time I was watching something else and noticed that the pacebox was off and should have been recording. I turned the box on and it started recording without me doing anything else. I had lost about 12 minutes. the first minute was there as well as the remaining 48 in two recordings.

another issue; I am old enough that I have some hearing problems, and so I have turned on closed captioning, but I noticed that on many programs only half of the dialog shows up. often times I can see it flash on the screen for what seems like less than a second and then the next lines appear. i recognize that live tv closed caption is delayed and sometimes incomplete. But this is happening on pre recorded shows, like law and order, criminal minds etc. the only times it seems to work right are for older movies who would (I assume) have subtitles built in. is this the box or the cable provider?
Thanks

Dale,

is this the box or the cable provider?

Can you supply some more details please?


What video output are you viewing the captions (HDMI, Component or analog SD outputs)?
Are you letting the TV render the captions or the 787?
What channel(s) are you seeing this behavior?

I have noticed a number of times lately where a recording will start on time, record for one minute, and then stop and start again in a few minutes. the last time I was watching something else and noticed that the pacebox was off and should have been recording. I turned the box on and it started recording without me doing anything else.

Do you know if the box rebooted after the initial one minute recording?

Dale,



Can you supply some more details please?


What video output are you viewing the captions (HDMI, Component or analog SD outputs)?
Are you letting the TV render the captions or the 787?
What channel(s) are you seeing this behavior?


1. the output is component
2. I use the 787 to display captions
3. it is cw, fox, cbs and nbc. there are others from time to time but those are the main ones that I watch on a weekly basis.

If I watch a movie on hdnet or universal the captions are fine. the hallmark channel is fine most of the time but they can be delayed there up to 1 minute for no apparent reason.

Also I never watch live tv, unless it is news. I always record and watch later.

Foxnews is annoying because is is seconds later than the actual speech and half of it is dropped too, but I assume some of that is because the transcribing takes place as the speech is occuring.

Do you know if the box rebooted after the initial one minute recording?

I have no idea. How would I know? what should I look for? keep in mind that I rarely am watching when the recording is being made. I was lucky the time I caught it. I was watching a dvd and noticed that the recording light was off when a recording should have been taking place. I switched to the 787 and the recording restarted the instant that the box came on.

I just received the 787 from my cable company after our old box was acting up. I never really looked into it with the other boxes, but is there a purpose for the ethernet port on the back of the unit? The box seems good so far, I'll have to see for sure after about a week of use, but the asthetics are a definite improvement over the 778.

but is there a purpose for the ethernet port on the back of the unit?

The ethernet is potentially usable if your cable provider enables the cable modem functionality in the box. This port is available on all Pace HD boxes.

If no one else supplied a photo, there's one at this link. Not sure why I can't find this box at the PACE website...

http://www.anchoragehd.tv/phpBB3/viewtopic.php?f=9&t=281&hilit=

So.. aside from having MPEG-4 capability, is there anything about this box that's better than the others? I don't plan on switching unless they force us to.

So.. aside from having MPEG-4 capability, is there anything about this box that's better than the others? I don't plan on switching unless they force us to.

The primary improvements are:


MPEG-4 decoding (which you've already noted)
Look of the box is significantly different (important for those that have all black entertainment setups).
Front Panel resolution indicators
HDMI differences/improvements
Can decode additional audio/video content types (1080p etc.)

I just received a TDC787X from my local cable company and the picture has a few issues. First is somewhat severe digital artifacting (tiling) and second and most obvious is a very washed out image. Blacks now look grey and adjusting to settings of other components does not seem to help. Connected via HDMI. Any info would be appreciated.

Jaymz

First is somewhat severe digital artifacting (tiling)

Is this with SD or HD content or both? Does it happen with live or time shifted/and or pre-recorded content?

Live content. Artifacts visible on SD mor than HD. HD shows noise around text and sharp lines. As far as the picture being washed out, this was apparent as soon as I turned the box on no matter what channel. Seems to be the way it outputs the video. Had to turn the gamma down to -3 just to get it somewhat better. Never had to do this with any other equipment, ever. Might try component video to see if it makes a difference. I have 3 other HDMI components and have no such issues. Any ideas?

Jaymz

Might try component video to see if it makes a difference.

Component and HDMI should put out a virtually identical image. Can you try component and report back?

Also, if you could do a screen capture and/or movie of the problem, it would be greatly appreciated.

It looks like low res internet video. What type of video processing chip does this unit use? I will try to post images of the problem tonight.

Jaymz

What type of video processing chip does this unit use?

Sorry, but this is one the areas where I can't comment in a public forum or via PM.

Understandable about the processor. Is there something different this box is doing as far as decoding the incoming signal that may add to the artifacts (different codec)? Also, do you recommend running this box with all video selections (480i, 480p, 720p, 1080i) active? Or should I let the box upconvert everything to 1080i (Only select 1080i)?

Jaymz

Understandable about the processor. Is there something different this box is doing as far as decoding the incoming signal that may add to the artifacts (different codec)?

No. We don't have any known bugs in this area, and I've not seen any complaints similar to yours previously with Aspen.

Also, do you recommend running this box with all video selections (480i, 480p, 720p, 1080i) active? Or should I let the box upconvert everything to 1080i (Only select 1080i)?

Optimal output resolution is highly dependent on your configuration. Typically, most high end TVs or receivers will have a better scaler than the 787 so its probably better to put the box in pass through mode and let your TV/receiver do its thing. However, this is a YMMV situation. I'd say experiment, see what you like best and use that configuration.

Linden,

My buddy at Armstrong just called me to let me know he had an Aspen for me if I want one.

What's your honest opinion on the Aspen vs. the 778? Should I do the swap? I don't want to create issues - but I do prefer the physical appearance of the Aspen (black) vs. the 778 (silver).

Bill

There's rumours of a new Pace box being release for us up here in Canada with Shaw. It's supposed to be a Pace Aspen unit. Linden, do you know anything about this? I'd like to upgrade from my 775 asap.

I replaced both my 778 Tahoes with two new 787 Aspens this weekend and I'm liking them. The CC seems much much faster than the old 778's and they simply look much better in black rather than the ugly old silver finish.

What's your honest opinion on the Aspen vs. the 778? Should I do the swap? I don't want to create issues - but I do prefer the physical appearance of the Aspen (black) vs. the 778 (silver).

Bill

Bill,

Sorry for the delay in responding. However, I see you made the decision to go ahead with Aspen. Glad you made that decision on your own as that is a question that falls into an area where I can't comment.

There's rumours of a new Pace box being release for us up here in Canada with Shaw. It's supposed to be a Pace Aspen unit. Linden, do you know anything about this? I'd like to upgrade from my 775 asap.

Can't comment about rumors or what products Shaw may or may not release. However, if you look at the first post in this thread, you will see a blurb about which versions of Aspen are available in U.S. and outside the U.S..

Initial thoughts on the Aspen vs. Tahoe are very positive.

It is much much quieter than the Tahoe plus the CC performance is much better. It fits in with my home theater components much better as well.

So far so good...

787x has a 250 gb hdd

i have installed a TDC787x in place of a TDC775.... when I change channels to one particular channel the audio becomes broken. This issue is present only on this one channel when I change to it. If I put the channel on and then swap to the other tuner, when I swap back the audio is then fine. This happens through HDMI, Digital audio and toslink, using home theatre and just audio for tv . It has to be an issue of how the digital signal is processed by the box. When I put the TDC775 back in........... it works fine, no audio issues. What exactly is the difference between the way the 775 and the 787 process audio? There must be one because I tried a second 787 and the same issue is present, but only on the one channel. I do think it is something to do with the broadcaster and the box in combo .. Any help? We are just launching these boxes in our system and it would be a big help to understand anything that might be changed from the previous models.....besides the mpeg4 ability, the look hdd increase.

i have installed a TDC787x in place of a TDC775.... when I change channels to one particular channel the audio becomes broken.

Is this with SD, HD or both? Do you know if the audio in these cases is 5.1?

Only on HD. The sd version is fine. We found out today that there is a bug that is being worked on. We were told Pace is aware of the possibility of audio dropping out. This is only suppossed to delay or launch by about a week or so. At this time I can't recall if it is an actual 5.1 broadcast or not. I would tend to think not. Any help is still appreciated though.

Hey guys,
I'm staying in downtown Edmonton for a couple of months. The landlord installed Shaw cable but went with the TDC776D Aspen in both the living room and bedroom instead of a Shaw unit and he didn't leave a manual. I've been all over the web trying to get more info on this unit inlcuding the Pace website and there just doesn't appear to be much out there. Questions:

1. Where can I get a pdf of the manual?
2. Why is it so hard to get information on this unit? Is it old or something?
3. Is this a good unit for HD?

I'm still speculating on why the landlord didn't just go with a Shaw unit but I'll leave that for him and I to discuss. Of course, you guys are welcome to weigh in if you want:rolleyes:

nevermind guys. I found answers to all questions. I'm good to go with this unit. Apparently, it's so new that there just isn't a lot of literature out there about it yet. I'm just starting into the manual but at first glance, there appears to be very little difference between the Aspen manual and the one for the Tahoe other than MPEG 4, which was mentioned by others.

Only on HD.

I'd be grateful if you could let me know if the problem happens on the analog audio outputs also and whether or not it was 2 channel audio or 5.1.

i got the new aspen box last week,and besides the front display being MUCH clearer (you can actually read the time), it also is a lot faster when flipping through the channel guide.

However, one question i'm looking into, is the IR repeater port. Does any IR expander work with this box? I'd like to place the box in a different spot, but still want to aim the remote at the TV, rather than the IR port on the front of the unit.

We are just launching these boxes in our system

So that I can track what software release is deployed in your area, can you tell me the cable provider name?

Armstrong Cable. I do know that 2 of the shows that were causing audio issues were Greys Anatomy and Oprah... as I had said before unsure of what they broadcast in. I will update more later. I have taken the box out and am waiting for the update before reinstalling. I'm currently using the 775 .......Im anxiously awaiting this one though because it is an outsatnding looking box and still has all the great pace features..

I never checked audio though coax output.........thats an idea..... I just know it only showed up on HD with every 787x I had in my possesion....... SD version of channel never had issue. Im sure it will get fixed soon......just a small glitch

I know Grey's is usually broadcast in 1280x720p / 5.1 Ch DD Audio.

1. Where can I get a pdf of the manual?

The user manual for the TDC776D is now available here (http://www.pace.com/americas/content/webcontent.asp?nav=support&fullid=supportservices_docs). Ditto for the TDC787X and DC700X.

FYI,

I updated the first post with links to a new MPEG-4 capable box (Apache).

Armstrong Cable. I do know that 2 of the shows that were causing audio issues were Greys Anatomy and Oprah...

Is anyone else here experiencing audio issues with either Oprah or Grey's Anatomy?

I've tried 2 different TDC787X boxes from Armstrong with both producing the same results.

14 SD channels severly break up in both video and audio to the point of being unwatchabe. HD channels are fine fortunately

I have a DC757X and a DCH3416 that work perfectly. I've tried moving the box to other locations in the house without improvement.

I have 2 feeds from the pole. I've connected the box to a tap on each feed.

HDMI, component and svideo all produce the same results.

Armstrong said they'll get back to me in 48hrs.

Linden, please help!

14 SD channels severly break up in both video and audio to the point of being unwatchabe. HD channels are fine fortunately

I'm afraid I don't have an immediate answer. I do have some questions:


Is it possible for you to do a recording of the breakup?
Can you please post the diagnostics inband and OOB (out of band) page details?
Can you please list the SD channels you are having problems with?

Video of Tiling and Audio problems.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VcmDckBAoOQ

Video of Tiling and Audio problems.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VcmDckBAoOQ

I would think the tiling is caused by a line issue from your cable company. I would have them come out & check. I've seen tiling caused by a bad fitting that was put on by an installer. A piece of material was touching the "stinger" & once that was cleared... the tiling went away.

I'm afraid I don't have an immediate answer. I do have some questions:

Since these boxes have MPEG-4, will HD look better than the Tahoe?

I would think the tiling is caused by a line issue from your cable company.

I believe that there are two other boxes in the residence that don't experience problems with the same signal, so I'm not sure this is being caused by signal quality (the diags will hopefully help us discover the issue).

Linden,

Here's Pics of the diags screens. If someone has a better way than this, please let me know. I was on Ch 29 which is one of the tiling channels.

DD.

Here's Pics of the diags screens.

If its not too painful, I'd like the inband information when you're on an HD channel that doesn't macroblock. The dashboard is reporting lots of errors in the stream.

It also would be useful if you could obtain the same inband diags info on the DC757X.

Finally, have you tried swapping to the second tuner to see if the macroblocking occurs with both tuners?

BTW, the screen caps are fine. Some users write the values down and post the info as text. Its your call whichever is easiest for you (its easier for me to read the text and save it for future reference).

Anyone?

Since these boxes have MPEG-4, will HD look better than the Tahoe?

Since these boxes have MPEG-4, will HD look better than the Tahoe?

MPEG-4 is not automatically better than MPEG-2. It depends on how the content is encoded, bit rates etc. Its true that its possible (likely) for MPEG-4 HD content to look better than the equivalent MPEG-2 stream at the same or lower bit rates, but its highly site specific.

Right now, most cable providers are not broadcasting lots of MPEG-4 content so I wouldn't expect a significantly better viewing experience until MPEG-4 content becomes more common place.

There are a number of threads on AVS comparing/contrasting MPEG-2 and MPEG_4 with the same content. You may want to review those threads for more comparison details.

Can't get the time to display... Only the channel number will please help!

Armstrong came out over the weekend to troubleshoot the box. The tech admitted that they are having problems with this box. The levels that the box is reporting does not match the test equipment or the other Pace box. Most of the reported issues have been audio related according to the tech.

My latest problem is that I cannot get DD5.1 over HDMI. It always reverts to PCM. I've reset the box to the defaults and power-cycled the AVR. I thought this was working before, but not sure. I was playing with a dual monitor setup and I am wondering if the box somehow detected that the monitor does not have DD5.1 capability.

Linden - Is there a way to regain this functionality?

I'm leaving it unplugged for the night.

My latest problem is that I cannot get DD5.1 over HDMI.

Each time you plug a new HDMI device in, it should detect the monitor or receivers capabilities. Please go to the Interface status page (21) in diagnostics, then select HDMI. Let us know what the supported audio formats are on that page.

The levels that the box is reporting does not match the test equipment

As reported on the Pace CableCARD STBs thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=903826) its not likely to match the level reported by test equipment. The diagnostic information may be up to +/4db from the actual signal level and this is true for all Pace set tops. This value is only a rough gauge as to the actual signal level. What signal level did the tech find?

I did not take note of the specific reading from the tech, but he said that the signal to the box was excellent. He couldn't understand why their was such a discrepency between the 2 Pace boxes in the house.

I left the box unplugged overnight and today DD works again. I even tried changing from Auto to pass through, but the box continued to pass only PCM yesterday.

The tiling has stopped, but the box continues to get poor reading, but better than last week.

Here's Pics of the diags screens.

We have some follow up questions.

1. Does the macroblocking occur when you are watching it live, or just when its time shifted (or pre-recorded)?

2. Is there audio breakup when the video macroblocking takes place?

3. Can you record one of the problematic channels and report the following:

A. Post a screen cap or the text of the content listing diagnostics page (25) for that recording. In particular, we're interested in the number of overflows in the recording.

B. Can you fast forward or rewind through the problematic area (i.e. macroblocking portion).

Linden,

I'm heading out of town for a few days. You can see from the youtube video that audio is breaking up as well as video. This was occurring on live TV.

I have a Slingbox attached to the Pace box so I'll be watching while I'm out of town. I'll keep you posted if it starts acting up again.

Sorry I haven't gotten back to you before now. I didn't tell you that my IN Band short term errors were all over the place. This was true on every Aspen I tried at my house and the office. When I put any other Pace in its place I had virtually no Short term errors.

Most of the reported issues have been audio related according to the tech.

Do you know what firmware release you are running?

I just updated the Aspen Release notes thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1053441) with the latest release information. This release should address the outstanding audio issues that have been reported (although I don't think its going to solve your problem).

do you know what firmware release you are running?

I just updated the aspen release notes thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1053441) with the latest release information. This release should address the outstanding audio issues that have been reported (although i don't think its going to solve your problem).

11.37

Can't get the time to display... Only the channel number will please help!
That setting is within the standard on-screen "Cable Box setup" choice - just a toggle between current time or current channel. Press the "menu" button on your remote to pull up the various choices then look for cable box setup (or something similar).

I just received this box (TDC787X Aspen) from my cable company. I was using it last night, and everything was fine for the first couple of hours, but now the box is unresponsive to the remote control. I was issued a universal remote from the cable company and that is the one that I know was working and is now not working. I also have a logitech harmony 550 and that doesn't work either. Finally, I have another of the cable company universal remotes that worked my previous standard def. dvr from pace and it does not work either. This morning I was able to get one of the cable company remotes to bring up the guide and then I navigated down one line on the guide and then again it would not work. I am pretty sure it is the box after that experience. I was wondering if any other users have had this issue, and if there was something I can do to resolve it. Also, does anyone know if the harmony remotes will control this box or should I put it in as a different make or model? Thanks

The problem with the remote not working only happens when the aspen is connected to the tv with hdmi. I have a samsung ln46a550. Is there a setting on the box or tv that is causing this?

One more update. Basically, the remote doesn't work if the tv is on, but if the tv is off, the remote works and the channels change on the box. I have now tried connecting the aspen to my sammy using all of the available outputs (coax, composite, component, and hdmi) and it doesn't matter how it is connected to the tv.

One more update. Basically, the remote doesn't work if the tv is on, but if the tv is off, the remote works and the channels change on the box.

Some LCDs and Plasmas generate interference that will prevent the remote from working. To work around this problem, you can either move the Aspen box further away from the display or you can get an IR extender from your cable provider, then disable the front panel IR receiver in Aspen via Pace User Settings.

If you decide on option #2, please verify that the option to disable the front panel is in the firmware release you are using (it may not be present in older firmware revisions).

Thank you Linden. I posted this to the tv thread also and someone there pointed me to some other threads concerning this issue. One suggestion in those threads was to change the energy saver settings on the tv. I did that and it corrected my problem. Thanks again.

Linden,

What is the status with the tiling issue and excessive short term errors? I spoke with my contact at Armstong and he said it has been escalated to corporate and that they are working with Pace directly.

Thanks for any update.

I have 2 of the TDC787x boxes and have noticed a lot of weirdness happening with them.

One of the issues is when I connect via HDMI to my Hitachi tv every day at least one time per day the sound will go to max and I have to mute the box for about 10 seconds then it goes back down. Changing the volume level on the TV nor the box has any affect. If I switch to component cables(5 wires) it no longer does this.

I also have a problem of the boxes just randomly resetting. There is nothing on or around them and no real indication of when it will happen. Channels being HD or SD doesn't matter. Last night I moved one of the boxes to another TV with composite(3 wires) cables and it was resetting almost every 30 minutes like clockwork. I disconnect the cables and went with just straight RF into the TV and it stopped resetting.

TDC787x ver 11.90 tvg 240 seachange 4_85 ccver 02.01

Hitachi 50" 50V720 Connected VIA HDMI
Mitsubishi Analog 32" TV about 14 years old

Any ideas?

ItsNewToYou

Linden,

What is the status with the tiling issue and excessive short term errors? I spoke with my contact at Armstong and he said it has been escalated to corporate and that they are working with Pace directly.

This is a accurate summary of the situation. I don't have any more details at this time.

I also have a problem of the boxes just randomly resetting. There is nothing on or around them and no real indication of when it will happen. Channels being HD or SD doesn't matter. Last night I moved one of the boxes to another TV with composite(3 wires) cables and it was resetting almost every 30 minutes like clockwork.

How many series recordings or one time recordings do you have scheduled? If its not too painful, can you delete all the future recordings and see if the problem persists?

I am new to these forums so sorry if this is a repost. I just got a TDC787X yesterday from GCI cable in Alaska
My first question is i know it has a internal 160GB hdd but what is it rated for? How much SD content can i record before it fills up and how much HD content can i record before it fills up?

Also it seems kind of weird because i recorded an hour of myth busters yesterday and it said it took up 10% of the hard drive. Is that right because it was recording in SD not HD.

Also i heard you can add a eSATA hdd. How high of a capacity can you add, and can it be any eSATA or does it have to be a specific brand. Also i called my cable company and they were not sure if it was enabled on the DVR. Are all of them enabled?

Thank you for your time and again sorry for the repost if their is one.

My first question is i know it has a internal 160GB hdd but what is it rated for?

Please see the first post in this thread. The DVR status page will tell you roughly how many hours of SD and/or HD can be recorded on the internal (or external eSATA) drive(s).

How high of a capacity can you add, and can it be any eSATA or does it have to be a specific brand.

Please see the first post in this forum (I just updated it). Several brands have been certified and will work, but combo USB/eSATA drives will likely be problematic. Be sure to buy a drive with just eSATA. More discussion can be found on the other Pace STB threads (i.e. Pace CableCARD thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=903826)).

Note: the first post now also has links to online manuals.

Still having problems getting DD5.1 to work consistently over HDMI.

In the past, I was able to restore it by rebooting the box. I have the HDMI setting to pass-through and have the auto-detect to disabled since my display inaccurately reports as 720p capable only. I've tried flipping from PCM-Auto-passthrough with no luck. I connected a digital coax cable and configured the receiver to use it as the audio source as a workaround until a permanent fix is established. I also had Armstrong try resetting the box. My F/W is still 11.37.

Lindend;
Sorry about the delay... MSO changed a setting in the TVG and both issues appear to be working correctly.

ItsNewtoYou

MSO changed a setting in the TVG

Who is your cable provider?

since my display inaccurately reports as 720p capable only. I've tried flipping from PCM-Auto-passthrough with no luck.

I checked but I didn't see a post of the HDMI diags page. Can you please post the details of that page? I'd like to see what we think your display is capable of.

The HDMI page is a sub-page of the Interface status page if you have difficulty finding it.

I have a Pace TDC776D which I'm trying to set up with a Slingbox Solo, and Sling customer service are being a bunch of mamby-pants. Their IR control has settings for the 575 and the 775, but neither work with the 776D. Their software *does* let you enter a custom code for a unit, however...

Does anyone happen to have a code for Slingboxes that might work with the 776D's?

I guess I was wrong I am still having the HDMI audio issue. Insight.

ItsNewToYou

Hi all,
Just wanted to let you know of a problem I'm having with my new Pace TDC787X box. I replaced my old 779 box with the new pace 787 box because of some problems I was having accessing some channels on tuner #2.
Hooked the new 787 box up and all was fine. After running for about an hour, I noticed that an area about 3" wide accross the top of the screen was distorted (sawtooth on diagonal lines as well as the image offset with the rest of the screen). I run 4:3 material on the zoom aspect to fill my screen. The distortion only happens when using this aspect setting. It happens on 4:3, 16:9 and on any resolution material.
After experimenting with this I found a reboot of the box will clear the distortion until the aspect is changed, and then it is back when viewed with zoom mode again. I replaced the HDMI cable, tried component video cables, and also hooked it up to another TV. I returned the 787 box to my cable company and the new replacement box does the same thing.
Please let me know if you have any suggestions I could try.
Both TV's are Samsung LN52A650 and a LN-T3242H.
Thanks, Dave

Their IR control has settings for the 575 and the 775, but neither work with the 776D.

Any IR control that works on the 775 will work on the 776 because they use the same protocol.

Dave,


Hooked the new 787 box up and all was fine. After running for about an hour, I noticed that an area about 3" wide accross the top of the screen was distorted (sawtooth on diagonal lines as well as the image offset with the rest of the screen). I run 4:3 material on the zoom aspect to fill my screen. The distortion only happens when using this aspect setting. It happens on 4:3, 16:9 and on any resolution material.

What output resolutions are active and what output types (HDMI/Component etc.) are you using?

Dave,



What output resolutions are active and what output types (HDMI/Component etc.) are you using?
Thank you for your response.
Currently I am forcing 1080i over HDMI. I did try using all available resolutions on the pace box with the same results. Distorted band on the top of the screen when using zoom display on any resolution / source or cable (HDMI or Component).

Thank you for your response.
Currently I am forcing 1080i over HDMI.

I believe we may have replicated the problem but only on 480i. So you see this issue on 480i, 720p and 1080i?

I believe we may have replicated the problem but only on 480i. So you see this issue on 480i, 720p and 1080i?

Yes, as I recall the distortion was present in all 480i, 720p, and 1080i. The distortion was not as bad with 720p or 1080i sources, but still there. I will confirm when I get home tonight.
Was your test TV a Samsung or another brand? Just wondering if it was a Samsung specific problem or not.
Thanks for your attention to this problem, it's good to know you guys are here.
Dave

Confirmed, the distortion is hard to notice on 720p and 1080i material. The biggest problem with any resolution material is the border between the distorted ban across the top of the screen, and the rest of the picture. There is a line which can be seen anytime the picture is paned or moved quickly. This line is there with any source material 480i, 720p, or 1080i.

Any IR control that works on the 775 will work on the 776 because they use the same protocol.

Well, I got this matter resolved. I can't say I'm completely surprised about the fix. As I suspected when I first contacted Sling, it seems that the SlingPlayer software 2.0.1.481 has a problem with the IR codes they use.

Although I could never get their software to control it with the "Pace Micro TDC-775" settings, they had me set it for a Motorola DCT6412 and that solved the problem.

What chaffs me is that they claim the 776D isn't supported, since as Lindend has said, the most notable difference between the 775 and 776D is that the 775 is a Cablecard (US) PVR, while the 776D is a non-Cablecard (Canadian) PVR.

Thank you for contacting Sling Media Technical Support.
(ed.- for the THIRD TIME)

Since the Cable Box is not supported with Slingbox, there are some stuff that you can try to get it working.
You can try to select Motorola DCT6412, seems to be almost identical so that might work.
Also you can try selecting Motorola and selecting Code 1.

I have recently received a Pace DC700X from Mediacom for my High Def channels. I have hooked it up and it appears to work great. In looking through the owners manual that you posted a link to, it mentions the use of an eSata external hard drive to enable DVR control. I can't seem to find any other information sources for this box anywhere! A few questions I have for this:

1. Is there any way to tell without an eSata drive if Mediacom has enabled/disabled the eSata port?

2. Will any external enclosure with eSata and 750gig or less hard drive work? I saw mention in a post to reference the first post for approved drives, but I can not seem to locate any info about it.

3. Can you recommend brand or model of eSata that works for the Pace DC700X?

Thanks a ton in advance for any info!

1. Is there any way to tell without an eSata drive if Mediacom has enabled/disabled the eSata port?

The SATA diagnostics page will report if the port is enabled.

3. Can you recommend brand or model of eSata that works for the Pace DC700X?

I just updated the first post in this thread with tested/supported drives. Hopefully, this will answer your questions.

Hi all;

I am having some issues with audio dropping, believe I may have some helpful information, and am wondering if any progress has been made. In summary, for me, it appears to be hdmi related.. full details below:

I have a Pace Aspen TDC776D connected to Shaw Cable. For all purposes except audio, it's working great. HD and SD and PVR behave as expected. I'm told Shaw uses MPEG2 and has no MPEG4 at this time, however I cannot personally verify the accuracy of this.

I've recently re-run cable to ensure high quality signal and do my best to rule signaling problems as the source of the audio drops. The 776D reports signal of around 0 for IB1 and 2 for IB2. Signal levels elsewhere in the house range from 0 to 2. SNR is usually good, at 35-36 or so, although once in a while fluctuates to "fair". All unused cable outlets are terminated. My home has a PCT multimedia drop amp, standard Shaw equipment, with +7db gain on all ports and active return (i.e. also boosts the signal going out of the house). All splitters are high quality Antronix splitters 5-1000MHz and 120dbi noise protection. (i.e. the stuff is all high quality).

The Pace box is connected directly to the TV (there's no amp / receiver). The TV is a Sharp Aquos LC-37D40U. Connection is HDMI. Pace is set to Auto for audio, and TV is set to take audio from digital input (i.e. the HDMI). Also, for testing, I have a rca cable analog audio output from the Pace box to the TV, allowing me to change which audio feed to use on the TV (i.e. change between digital and analog input).

When audio drops, it goes away for about 1 second, and then returns. It will do that approximately 2-4 times per hour. Audio drops have only been seen on HD channels. Also, they're in live, recorded, and 'delayed' watching (i.e. watching 15 seconds behind live).

When it occurs, I test by rewinding the DVR to see if the audio drop is still there. For almost all of my testing, the audio drop does not appear in re-play of the same scene. Finally, I've tested by using the analog/rca audio instead of audio over hdmi, and found no audio drops when using analog/rca inputs and not hdmi.

I don't know if this is helpful for anyone or not, but thought I'd post it. Since I'm only using tv speakers, the digital capabilities of the digital audio are less important to me, although the ability to use hdmi universally would be nice.

I'm welcome to any questions or other info people may want.

Thanks

Is this box Tru2Way compatable? Will it be able to generate a guide/UI in HD (at least 720p) 16:9? I'm tired of all these archaic cable interfaces with boring SD guide graphics. Any word on much better, more capeable feature filled guides running on this hardware?

How about some good features like a true 16:9 guide? How about PIP? How about web based DVR scheduling like DirecTV and Fios? How about Multi-Room DVR like Fios? How about on screen widgets and games? How about rich graphics with cover art like on Fios? How about DLNA and home networking like Fios/DirecTV/Dish Network? Why are Cable providers so behind in terms of on screen guides/UI? Look how nice U-Verse's interface is. Heck, you can do yellowpages.com searches through your U-Verse box. You can play DVR recordings in other rooms (MR-DVR). You have slick graphics with modern transitions and elements in U-Verse. Would it hurt to provide a simple channel logo in the guide? It's all about brand recognition. If you are scrolling fast through the guide you happen to notice logo's like CNN, ESPN, Fox, ABC, etc... Would it hurt to improve the search features so that on demand listings are shown as well as linear channel results?

Why is I-Guide still used today? Looks like it's something that could easily come out of my old 16-bit Super Nintendo from 1992 with it's 3.54 MHz CPU. I'm sure these modern day DVR's could run much better software. Look at Tivo.... It's running on a 300 MHz Broadcom CPU, much like in Motorola DVR's. Time to fire that I-Guide team. I wish they would at least hire talented graphic designers to overhaul the interface. I hope they read online forums, blogs and keep up with the latest technology so they are aware of features that need to be added. Linden, you are great. When is a representative from Macrovision going to come public on here and get real world customer input, so they can improve their guide? Maybe you can e-mail some of these concerns to them. They seem pretty dead to the idea of updating their archaic, bland, limited featureless interface. Instead they changed it from tan to blue, made 6 listings 5 with a giant ad at the bottom of the screen, and pretty much called it a finished product. That lack of progress has me literally DISGUSTED. Yet I feel helpless as there's no real way to contact them, or even get updates on their progress.

The SATA diagnostics page will report if the port is enabled.



Is the SATA diagnotics page the same as the main diagnostics page which is entered by turning on the dc700x and pressing settings right away? I can access that screen, but I only see something about hard drive sleep mode. I am accessing the right screen?

Is this box Tru2Way compatable?

Tru2Way has been shown running on this box at various shows.

Will it be able to generate a guide/UI in HD (at least 720p) 16:9? I'm tired of all these archaic cable interfaces with boring SD guide graphics. Any word on much better, more capeable feature filled guides running on this hardware?

I can't get into the merits of the guides but Passport from Macrovision has been deployed at various sites using different Pace boxes. In addition, a variety of guides have been shown on the Tru2Way demos mentioned above.

How about PIP?

This particular set of boxes are not PIP capable.

As far the other questions, I'm not ignoring them, just can't comment on unannounced and/or unreleased products.

I'm welcome to any questions or other info people may want.

As an experiment, can you got into the HDMI section of Pace User Settings and force the HDMI output to be PCM?

Thanks linden for your response. A lot of these new DVR's appear to be much more capeable than the software that currently runs on them. Heck, even Howard Stern today was dissing the Cable DVR guide. I think he has Cablevision iO, so that would be a SA box, but still the premise applies to all. Cable guides are very poor compared to the likes of Moxi, Tivo, and some of the other more advanced media center interfaces out there.

I'm glad to know that the box does support Tru2Way. I'm hoping that Tru2Way paves the way for much more advanced guides and applications. This box is much better than I-Guide makes it look.

I have asked this before on the Tahoe, but hoping for a miracle now that I have an Aspen. Is there any way to force L-PCM down conversion on all channels out the SPDIF and/or TOSLINK digital outs? I run a 2-channel system and would love to use my DAC.

Thanks again lindend for reaching out to the cable companies and their customers.

Is there any way to force L-PCM down conversion on all channels out the SPDIF and/or TOSLINK digital outs?

You can force HDMI to be PCM, but there is no equivalent for S/PDIF or Toslink via the Pace User Settings. Does your receiver have an HDMI input?

Lindend hi,

I see you are a Pace employed Guru and I was wondering if you can help me out:
I have a nice newish Pace TDC776D Aspen purchased and running through Compton Cable in Ontario.

I have recently added a Western Dig My DVR external drive and all is well except I am having issues whereby the unit cannot delete old recordings pre-esata drive install.
When trying to delete, the error is:

Service Error. Call Compton blah blah . Error Code NH

So I am trying to locate the facility to do a hard disk format myself. Compton have said they are looking into how to do it if possible remotely, and do not know of a way I can do it locally. I am looking for a way to do it via the front panel / remote.

Can you help?

Any info you may wish to give - factory reset etc. would be great.

I have rebooted / power cycled a few times with and without the Expander plugged in.
Compton have also sent a reset to the unit, but the problem remains.


Cheers.

So I am trying to locate the facility to do a hard disk format myself.

I have updated FAQ in the first post to include details on formatting the internal or external HDDs.

Great, that worked a treat thanks :)

I have updated FAQ in the first post to include details on formatting the internal or external HDDs.

If ever I pause the DVR, the gaphical bar showing pause position / time bar is displayed by the DVR. This is quite big and takes up about a quarter of the viewable display. Often this actually blocks out parts of the screen you wish to see paused especially sports.

Could this be made to perhaps time-out to vanish after a few seconds or even a variable added to the CP to set the time it displays for by the user?

Cheers.

Hello, I am new to this forum.

I've searched through the threads, but haven't found an answer to my question thus far.

I would like to take the recordings from my DVR unit (TDC787X) and move them to my PC. What are my options?

I appreciate your help.

Hi Correllium,

This can apparently be done, but it's not easy due to the way HDPC protection locks down the recordings to the unit that recorded them.
Check out this thread (http://www.digitalhome.ca/forum/showthread.php?t=98929&highlight=tdc776d) for a 'work around'.

Do any of the Pace boxes have a discrete code for power?

Do any of the Pace boxes have a discrete code for power?

See the first post in this thread. I just added this info.

As an experiment, can you got into the HDMI section of Pace User Settings and force the HDMI output to be PCM?

Hi Lindend

Thanks for the reply lindend, I am testing the force L-PCM now per your post, and have had a couple audio drops already, which when I rewind the dvr do not re-appear. I'd also configured the tv to use hdmi for sound instead of analog for this test. Additionally, I had previously tried force passthrough but my TV does not support it for reference (I think I've always been using PCM).

Thanks,
nated

Yes, as I recall the distortion was present in all 480i, 720p, and 1080i. The distortion was not as bad with 720p or 1080i sources, but still there. I will confirm when I get home tonight.
Was your test TV a Samsung or another brand? Just wondering if it was a Samsung specific problem or not.
Thanks for your attention to this problem, it's good to know you guys are here.
Dave

Confirmed, the distortion is hard to notice on 720p and 1080i material. The biggest problem with any resolution material is the border between the distorted ban across the top of the screen, and the rest of the picture. There is a line which can be seen anytime the picture is paned or moved quickly. This line is there with any source material 480i, 720p, or 1080i.

Hi Jefferson62, Lindend, I can also confirm similar issues. There is a visual anomaly that I've now seen on 2 identical pace boxes (both like mine, the Aspen embedded on Shaw Cable in Canada). After pressing zoom twice to do a full zoom (i.e. both horizontal and vertical zoom), the video output has a section at the top of the screen which appears distorted (from the top of the screen to approx 1/6 the way down) The distortion appears to be that "out of sync" with the rest of the picture and of lower quality. It's hard to see unless watching something with action and motion in that section of the screen, especially motion of a shape (like a person) that is both in the upper and lower portion of the screen. Do you know if this is a known issue, and if not anything I can do to help? I'm on firmware version 12.09 also, if this helps. I'm also using 1080i.

Thanks,
nated

Hi Lindend

Thanks for the reply lindend, I am testing the force L-PCM now per your post, and have had a couple audio drops already, which when I rewind the dvr do not re-appear.

Nated,

I just thought about something. Some older firmware releases had audio drop out issues which have subsequently been fixed. Do you know what firmware release is currently on your box?

Nevermind: I see you are a Shaw customer so I know what firmware you're using. I need to see if that problem exists in your firmware.

After pressing zoom twice to do a full zoom (i.e. both horizontal and vertical zoom), the video output has a section at the top of the screen which appears distorted (from the top of the screen to approx 1/6 the way down) ...Do you know if this is a known issue, and if not anything I can do to help? I'm on firmware version 12.09 also, if this helps. I'm also using 1080i.

We have replicated the problem, but I don't have any additional updates at this point.

Hi Lindend

Thanks for the reply lindend, I am testing the force L-PCM now per your post, and have had a couple audio drops already, which when I rewind the dvr do not re-appear. I'd also configured the tv to use hdmi for sound instead of analog for this test. Additionally, I had previously tried force passthrough but my TV does not support it for reference (I think I've always been using PCM).

Thanks,
nated


Nated,

I have another experiment for you try (if possible). Can you connect the S/PDIF or Toslink output and see if the audio drops are present there?

Nated,

I have another experiment for you try (if possible). Can you connect the S/PDIF or Toslink output and see if the audio drops are present there?

Hi Lindend, thanks for the idea. I'm not able to do this test, I don't appear to have either S/PDIF or Toslink on this TV and don't have any equipment that can connect to it.

As I said, for me I have an acceptable workaround (analog audio).. so don't worry about my situation per se. That said, I manage a team that works in computers, and so I know debugging can be a royal pain at the best of times and am happy to volunteer my situation to help you/Pace debug this.

Enjoy the Superbowl! Thanks,
nated

Hi Jefferson62, Lindend, I can also confirm similar issues. There is a visual anomaly that I've now seen on 2 identical pace boxes (both like mine, the Aspen embedded on Shaw Cable in Canada).

Hi Nated,
Thank you for confirming my problem with the screen distortion. I know Pace confirmed it in the lab, but after two different boxes with the same problem, nobody else reported anything. Maybe they have a better work around for viewing 4:3 material in full screen?
I wanted to let you know I also experience the audio drop outs with my pace 787 box. I use optical cable to my Yamaha RX-V757 receiver. Your descreption of the audio drop out problem you are having sounds identical to mine. Hope this gets worked out soon, the box seems to function fine except for these two problems.
Dave

Your descreption of the audio drop out problem you are having sounds identical to mine. Hope this gets worked out soon, the box seems to function fine except for these two problems.

Dave,

After doing some research, turns out the audio drop out issue is fixed in the next maintenance release (12.54). I updated the release notes to reflect this change.

After doing some research, turns out the audio drop out issue is fixed in the next maintenance release (12.54).

Great news on the audio drop out fix, thank you. Now I just need to wait for my cable co. to catch up on the firmware. Now if we can get rid of the video problem all will be fine.
Thanks again,
Dave

I just purchased a Toshiba 42XV540U LCD television which has a 3.5mm IR pass through jack in the back. Is there a way to utilize that feature to provide IR control to the Pace TDC787X unit which is hidden?

I'm having a similar audio dropout problem. I have the box connected to my receiver (Onkyo TX-SR705) via HDMI, and have the HDMI audio set to pass-through. When watching some SD programs the sound will dropout for an instant (1/4 second or so, it's so fast it sounds almost like an inverse 'pop'), and then comes back and works just fine. This is not very consistent, but seems to happen every 1 to 5 minutes. It does not seem to happen on all channels. I have GCI cable in Alaska, and I'm not sure what the firmware version is, the guide menu just says 99.99? I've only had the box a day so I haven't had time to experiment with different settings/connections yet. I'll write back after I have time to play around with it.

Besides this, I've had no problems. I like it a lot more than the Motorola box I had before (DCT-6412). The biggest improvements so far are 1: produces a lot less heat, and 2: can output the video signal in its native resolution instead of forcing only 1080i or 720p for all channels.

I too am having issues with dropout. The audio frequently drops out for a second or two, and less frequently the video gets garbled in a portion of the screen too. It does not matter whether I am watching HD or SD. I too am a GCI subscriber, but in Fairbanks, AK. I have not experienced this problem in the past with either analog TV/settop or HD TV with cablecard.

Can someone please post the exact physical dimensions of the TDC776D/787X Aspen (assuming they are the same size - if not the 776D is probably the one that Shaw Cable carries, but I haven't confirmed that yet). They aren't in the manual, nor on the online specs page.

I'm space limited (depth) in my entertainment unit and some of the Motorola boxes that they have are 17" deep, which is too large - I can fit a max of a 13" box in the unit and still have room for cables and connections etc (16" is the depth of the cabinet).

[hint to any Pace employees reading - this would probably be good info to add to your web page...]

Many thanks!
The REAL Joe

Can someone please post the exact physical dimensions of the TDC776D/787X Aspen (assuming they are the same size - if not the 776D is probably the one that Shaw Cable carries, but I haven't confirmed that yet). They aren't in the manual, nor on the online specs page.

I'm space limited (depth) in my entertainment unit and some of the Motorola boxes that they have are 17" deep, which is too large - I can fit a max of a 13" box in the unit and still have room for cables and connections etc (16" is the depth of the cabinet).

[hint to any Pace employees reading - this would probably be good info to add to your web page...]

Many thanks!
The REAL Joe
My 787X is 16" wide, 2.5" tall, and only 12" deep, definitely smaller than my old Motorola box.

I have been recording my Dvr (List) to DVD with no problems.Today,however,when I pwr cycled the Dvr and Restored Default Settings,I can no longer record to Dvd.

I am not asking for assistance with any sort of fix.I am fully aware of copy right issues.

I am just asking if anyone knows if the pwr cycle or default restore of Dvr may have caused this?


Thanks :(

I have 2 of the Pace 787's in my home - I'm on Armstrong Cable. Both boxes are connected to my TV's via HDMI - one TV is a Pioneer Elite 940 42" plasma (the one the troublesome 787 is on) - the other is a Panasonic TH-PX80U 50" plasma.

The one on my first floor (that's used the most) is acting up and I've already called Armstrong about it - however they can't come to check it until next week.

Anyway - I could use some tips on troubleshooting this issue.

What's happening is - when we attempt to view a recorded program - OR - a Video On Demand show - the box locks up. As soon as you hit the play button to watch a recorded show - the screen freezes for approximately 1-2 minutes - at which point the box reboots itself and goes back to normal TV viewing. It does it all over again if you attempt to watch the DVR or VOD again.

I've tried unplugging it a few times - and Armstrong tried sending a refresh to it with no luck.

Since we have a number of un-watched shows recorded - I'd ideally like to fix it myself this weekend rather than the Armstrong tech coming out next week and simply replacing the box (which seems to be their normal way to "troubleshoot" a cable box with issues).

Thanks for any assistance/suggestions you can offer me.

Since we have a number of un-watched shows recorded - I'd ideally like to fix it myself this weekend

Bill,

Sorry, I've never seen this reported before so I'm afraid I don't have an immediate work around. Does it do this with all recordings (even ones that played back ok previously) or just the unwatched recordings?

Bill,

Sorry, I've never seen this reported before so I'm afraid I don't have an immediate work around. Does it do this with all recordings (even ones that played back ok previously) or just the unwatched recordings?

That's correct Linden - anything that was previously recorded causes the lockup (previously watched or not) - as does any VOD show (once the "one moment please" shows up).

I finally said heck on it and reformatted the hard drive and things seem to be working again - luckily most of my wife's show's were also recorded on the 787 in our finished basement.

If you'd like to give me some things to look for in diagnostics in the event it happens again - that'd be fine Linden.

If you'd like to give me some things to look for in diagnostics in the event it happens again - that'd be fine Linden.

Probably the content listing page for the recording, but I'm guessing based on your symptoms, that something was (and maybe still is) going on with your HDD. Keep us posted if something else arises.

Probably the content listing page for the recording, but I'm guessing based on your symptoms, that something was (and maybe still is) going on with your HDD. Keep us posted if something else arises.
Do you suspect the HDD is going bad Linden?

First, I'd like to thank Linden for all the help he gives in these forums. I'm curious to know whether this is entirely as a personal service, or whether it's actually part of your job responsibilities at Pace to do this. It seems that this is the only access to good technical support on the Pace boxes. I have a TDC776D with Shaw Cable in Alberta, and when I called Shaw tech support to find out how to reformat the internal hard drive they could not tell me. Not only that, but they only had an "internal" number for Pace, which they were not prepared to give to me.
Without Linden's "lifeline" it seems that we'd be without any kind of decent support for these devices, which concerns me, so please, Linden, keep up the good work! And now to my problem...

Our TDC776D has apparently malfunctioned on two occasions, with the result that using LIST to show recorded shows indicates tens or hundreds of fragments of two shows. The fragments themselves take up almost no space on the drive, but make finding real shows difficult. Deleting these one at a time takes forever, so I though it better simply to reformat the internal HD and start again from scratch. Using the instructions in the FAQ at the start of this thread I got to the place where I could format the drive, and thought I'd succeeded - I got the warning that it might take a while, then the box rebooted (sooner than I expected), but when it came back on, all the recorded shows were still there. Second time I tried it, I didn't get the warning, the box rebooted, and still there were the recorded shows.

So now to my questions:

What am I doing wrong with the reformat?
Is there another way to "delete all" without going the reformat route?
Have you seen the "tens or hundreds of show fragmnents" problem before?
Should Shaw's tech support have been able to tell me how to reformat?

My 787X is 16" wide, 2.5" tall, and only 12" deep, definitely smaller than my old Motorola box.

Thanks! 12" deep will fit perfectly.

Now, for opinions from current users - is this box stable enough to be considered a good choice at this time, or is it still too new with firmware too rough yet?

Honest opinions please, because I certainly don't want to get into a device that either fails to record perfectly on an intermittent basis, or loses all of its recordings on a regular basis at this point.

Many thanks again,
The REAL Joe

My experience with the 787 has been positive overall. In my opinion - it's less flaky than the 778 before it and the 775 before it. I hate the Moto boxes - so the 787 is my only other choice with my cable provider. I think it's pretty safe to say there's virtually no way to get a iron clad guarantee that any cable box/dvr won't have a flaky moment here or there. It's kind of like expecting your PC to never have a hiccup and blue screen, lockup or something similar.

If I had to rate the various cable boxes I've had over the last few years it'd go like this on a scale of 1-100:

Moto 6412 - 85
Pace 775 - 80
Pace 778 - 90
Pace 787 - 95

I'm curious to know whether this is entirely as a personal service, or whether it's actually part of your job responsibilities at Pace to do this.

Strictly voluntary. Its not part of my job duties. I discussed this earlier in one of the other Pace STB threads if you want more details.


Our TDC776D has apparently malfunctioned on two occasions, with the result that using LIST to show recorded shows indicates tens or hundreds of fragments of two shows.

This isn't a malfunction of the drive. Its a software bug/issue. If TV Guide fails to start a recording, it will retry dozens or hundreds of times which, unfortunately, can produce the results you see.


Using the instructions in the FAQ at the start of this thread I got to the place where I could format the drive, and thought I'd succeeded - I got the warning that it might take a while, then the box rebooted (sooner than I expected),

Shouldn't take more than 10-12 seconds before it reboots. During the next reboot, the rest of the format will take place. However, based you your description, sounds like the reformat is failing. Do you have an external drive attached?


What am I doing wrong with the reformat?

Not sure, would be nice to verify that you are in fact selecting the internal drive (1) if you have a multi-drive system.

Can you post some screen caps of the HDD diags page and the DVR diags page?

Is there another way to "delete all" without going the reformat route?

Not really.

Do you suspect the HDD is going bad Linden?

Too early to tell either way. Lets see what the next few weeks produce.

I just got a new Pace 787 (Armstrong Cable in Pittsburgh). I tried it on my main home theater connected to a Denon 3808CI receiver via HDMI. At first it worked great, but when I switched inputs on the 3808 and then went back to the cable box, I lost the picture. The only way to get it back was to unplug the cable box and plug it back in. However, the problem persisted so I went back to my old Motorola DCT6412 and put the new Pace box on a secondary TV in the living room. However, I do most of my recording on the home theater system, and would really like the expandability of the Pace (I just got a WD DVR Expander I'm going to hook up tonight).

I know that I could probably connect the Pace directly to my TV, bypassing the Denon 3808, and avoid the HDCP issues I'm encountering by going through the Denon, but I don't want to do that for several reasons: I'd need to rewire my system (the components unfortunately are not the easiest to access), I'd like to take advantage of the video up conversion capabilities of the Denon, and I don't want to reprogram my Harmony remote (I like that the Motorola and Pace boxes use the exact same IR commands).

So I've got a couple of questions: Is it probable that an upcoming firmware upgrade for the Pace 787 will allow it to work with the Denon 3808? If so, I could just wait and leave the Pace on my living room TV until I know it's fixed and then swap cable boxes with my home theater. Or, can anyone verify that some of the earlier Pace boxes offered by Armstrong work with the Denon 3808? I believe I could get either the 775D or the 778X - I'd rather not do this, though, since I like the looks of the 787 better. Thanks for your help.

So I've got a couple of questions: Is it probable that an upcoming firmware upgrade for the Pace 787 will allow it to work with the Denon 3808?

We are aware of the issue you posted about (we actually replicated the issue before you posted). The issue is still under investigation so I can't provide a time frame when it will be addressed right now. If/when a fix is available, I will post here.

Thanks, Linden. Do you know if the other Pace boxes work with the Denon 3808?

Linden,

A user on the forum was kind enough to provide leared discrete commands, but unfortunately, they do not work reliably.

Can you provide full usable IR strings for the On/Off commands?

Thanks.

Linden,

Any reports of the 787 randomly losing it's CC? My wife keeps it on on our tv in the finished basement where her treadmill is and about every 5-6 days the CC just stops working (even though it's turned on in the menu). I end up having to unplug the unit and let it reboot etc - and it works again. Thanks.

Bill

Another Shaw (Calgary) customer, and I have a problem I haven't yet seen posted. My 776 seems to periodically forget that it is a PVR. The PVR menu disappears, as does the unit's ability to record shows. Is there a known cause/fix for this?

Thanks.

Linden,

Any reports of the 787 randomly losing it's CC?

Bill,

We recently fixed a similar sounding issue and this fix will be in the next maintenance release. Hopefully, this will solve your problem also.

I've had a recurring issue where the DVR reports that the HDD is full and can no longer record. This seems to happen at around 25% capacity according to the onscreen guide. The only way I can seem to fix it is to delete a file.

I've never recorded anywhere near enough programming to fill up the reported capacity. Max i've had is maybe 4 hours HD and a few hours of SD content. It just jumps from ~25% to 100% and stops recording. I've seen this happen when there was only one 30 minute SD recording listed with the drive 100% full.

I tried bringing up the diagnostics menu and found the list of contents in the DVR. I found a blank space between two listed shows. I was able to move the selector to it and could click on it. It was a 2:30 hour HD recording that doesn't show up on DVR onscreen recordings list. What is this file and is it possible to delete it? The only option that seems available is to try the reformat command I saw earlier on this thread.

I've had a recurring issue where the DVR reports that the HDD is full and can no longer record.

This issue comes up quite a bit on the various Pace set top boxes threads so I've updated the FAQ on the initial post to address it. Please take a look and let us know if a reboot solves your problem.

I've got it up and running again. Any idea what that 2 1/2 hour mystery recording is? The time stamp on it is from the last show I scheduled to record before the DVR full error. Do I need to format the HDD to clear up the space as I can't see it in the tv guide?

Also, why does it say it is full and stop instead of deleting old recordings that are set to "save until space is needed"?

I have a question, lindend. I see you have firmware numbers posted such as 11.05-11.14 for the TDC787X. My firmware version is 99.99? Is there something wrong with my unit?

I have a question, lindend. I see you have firmware numbers posted such as 11.05-11.14 for the TDC787X. My firmware version is 99.99? Is there something wrong with my unit?

Are you seeing 99.99 in Pace diagnostics or in the TV Guide menus?

I've got it up and running again. Any idea what that 2 1/2 hour mystery recording is?

Do you see the recording in the content listing screen in diagnostics?

Also, why does it say it is full and stop instead of deleting old recordings that are set to "save until space is needed"?

Sorry, I can't answer that question. Its a bug in TV Guide and not Pace software so I can't comment more than this.

Yes the file was visible in the contents section of the diagnostics. I ended up doing a reformat as shown at the beginning of the thread. Just resetting it didn't erase the file.

Thanks for the help. You were much more helpful than the cable guys.

Linden,

I have a suggestion from my wife for all Pace boxes - not just the 787.

She hates how when a recording is finished it defaults to "delete recording" and she's inadvertently deleted a few programs she wanted to save. Why not have it default to not deleting and force people to make a conscious effort to actually delete rather than it being so easy to mistakenly delete a watched program by having happy fingers and pressing "ok"?

Bill

Why not have it default to not deleting and force people to make a conscious effort to actually delete rather than it being so easy to mistakenly delete a watched program by having happy fingers and pressing "ok"?

Bill,

I think you have a solid point here and I believe this is great suggestion. Unfortunately, this particular behavior is part of TVG (not Pace code) and this is actually working as designed (I can't get into the pros/cons of this design on a public forum or via PM).

I would contact your cable provider and request the change in the guide.

Are you seeing 99.99 in Pace diagnostics or in the TV Guide menus?


In the TV Guide Menus.

In the TV Guide Menus.

Please use diags. There is a bug in the MPEG-4 boxes reporting the firmware revision in TV Guide menus (problem does not exist on the older set top boxes).

This issue should be fixed in the next maintenance release(s), but until then, diags is the only way to get this info.

Please use diags. There is a bug in the MPEG-4 boxes reporting the firmware revision in TV Guide menus (problem does not exist on the older set top boxes).

This issue should be fixed in the next maintenance release(s), but until then, diags is the only way to get this info.


How do I access diags?

lindend/Anyone else, hopefully someone has a few answers, about my TDC 776D - Shaw Cable HD PVR.

Long story short - I am looking to replace the internal hard-drive for simplicity & to avoid having a separate external enclosure. Below are a few questions regarding this process...

1) If a blank hard drive (unformated) is installed internally, will the box build the file-structure/partitions? What if I use the format function?

2) I am assuming that the internal SATA port is also limited to 750GB hd (~700GB) & has no restrictions on it being larger then the standard 160GB?

3) I am assuming cloning the current internal would work, while increasing the current partitions respectively. (5-7 partitions) ?

Once the internal drive is replaced should it still be needed the external drive could be connected via the esata port and essentially allow for 1.4TB of storage (minus System files, Live buffering, etc... )


*Edit* Also anyone use / try one of these I have one at the office I might bring home and try.... Just about every sata chipset maker has one of these hubs... if we match the same chipset that is already in the pace box... (haven`t looked yet so not sure, but i am sure it is one of the common ones... )

http://www.cooldrives.com/sahub5muussi.html

Thought I would post here when I found at least one other user who seemed to upgrade the Hard drive... not sure on what model... incase someone else is in the same boat I am/was...

http://www.digitalhome.ca/forum/showthread.php?t=104519

I'm having Audio Drop outs on my 776D as well (also a Shaw customer). A tech came by yesterday and said that all of my coax levels were really good as well.

Just like nated1, if I rewind and re-watch a scene with an audio drop, the audio is present!? I have not tried plain old analogue, but I believe the issues went away while testing L-PCM over HDMI (this mode is stereo only though correct?)

I tried both HDMI and Optical S/Pdif using these setups:

Pace >HDMI> Onkyo 705 >HDMI> SamsungTV
Pace >Comp/Opt> Onkyo 705 >HDMI> SamsungTV

I'm hoping these drop outs will be resolved with the FW? My current Version is: 12.09

Thought I would post here when I found at least one other user who seemed to upgrade the Hard drive... not sure on what model... incase someone else is in the same boat I am/was...

http://www.digitalhome.ca/forum/showthread.php?t=104519

I believe we discussed replacing the internal HDD in depth in the Pace Tahoe thread, but we only test and certify the drive that came with the box.

Replacing the internal drive may seem to work for a while, but its likely that you'll run into issues. Sorry, but the only supported means of adding addition storage is via the eSATA port.

How do I access diags?

Please see the FAQ in the first post in this thread. Question #1.

Well I've had my first real problem with my Pace Aspen PVR today. It was acting weird so I unplugged it and plugged it back in (seems to have worked previously).

However this time when it booted back up, it showed 0% full and all my recorded movies and such had disappeared.

Any info on how to restore them? They should still be on the hard drive right?

Any info on how to restore them? They should still be on the hard drive right?


Can you go into diagnostics and see what the last format date/time was?

Can you go into diagnostics and see what the last format date/time was?

Well strangely enough after rebooting it a couple of times the recordings returned, all intact.

I've had the Aspen for almost 5 months now and I've only had a few glitches with it, but nothing too major.

We are aware of the issue you posted about (we actually replicated the issue before you posted). The issue is still under investigation so I can't provide a time frame when it will be addressed right now. If/when a fix is available, I will post here.

Any update on this? I have a Denon AVR-789 and have the exact same issue. Video will only passthrough after I unplug the Aspen and plug it back it again. If I switch sources on the Denon then I cannot get video again until I unplug the power and plug it back in again.

Since I got the Aspen specifically to connect to my home theatre system, I'm thinking of returning the box if this doesn't get fixed very shortly. I'll make sure to let Shaw know that this is a known problem with the Aspen and that it hasn't been fixed in months, despite the fact that Pace has known about and can duplicate the problem in their labs for 2 months now.

Thanks for the reminder, Zamrod. I'm still waiting as well. It's not a huge issue for me, since I have an older Motorola cable box on my home theater with the Denon 3808 that works fine, and my new Pace box is on a secondary TV, but I'd like to move the Pace box to the home theater where I record all my HD movies so I can take advantage of the DVR expander I bought for it.

Hey everyone! I'm using a Pace TDC787x from my cable provider and I'm having trouble with colors when using the composite outputs on the box.

I have a Panasonic projection HD TV, which does not have HDMI inputs. It has composite inputs and when I hook my DVD player up using the composite cables the colors on the screen are fine. When I use the composite cables with the Pace HD/DVR box the colors are completely screwy, yet when I use the S-video output the colors on the TV are just fine.

I've tried adjusting the colors as best as I can using the adjustments on the TV, but I just can't get the colors dialed in at all. The greens and blues are off the most noticeably, but the color in general is just a bit off all the way around.

I just purchased the HD service and don't have money for a new TV with HDMI inputs, so I really need to make this composite setup work. I have not found any way to adjust the colors through the Pace unit using the diagnostics menu. Does anyone have any idea of how I can correct this issue with the colors while using the composite cables???

Hey everyone! I'm using a Pace TDC787x from my cable provider and I'm having trouble with colors when using the composite outputs on the box.

If S-Video comes out ok, then I don't think we've got a h/w issue.

Is there any possibility that you are connecting to one of the component outputs and not the composite output?

If S-Video comes out ok, then I don't think we've got a h/w issue.

Is there any possibility that you are connecting to one of the component outputs and not the composite output?

Hey thanks for the reply! Yeah I've double-checked and triple-checked all connections, and the component video cables are all in the right places on both ends, as are the component audio cables. Any other ideas?

I've been trying to get ahold of the technician that I was given a number to by my local provider, but I'm having a hell of a time getting ahold of him :/

Any other ideas?

Unfortunately not. If you've ruled out the cables, the only other thing I can imagine is the jack is bad on the box. Have you tried toggling the cable to see if it helps/harms the image? If so, that might confirm a problematic connection.

I have a Pace Aspen from Shaw cable here in Vancouver. The only way I can get the video portion of HDMI connection to work through my Denon AV receiver is to unplug and plugin the Pace unit, allow it to go through its boot up, then turn on the components in the recommended order (Receiver, Pace DVR, then TV [Sharp D65]). Done this way, the HDMI succesfully connects the video signal through the Receiver to the TV. However, when I switch away from the the Pace DVR to , say to my Blu-ray player... when I later return to HDTV, only the audio is passed to the receiver, no video on the TV at all. The only way to get it back is to repeat the "un-plug" procedure again.

I'm fairly certain this is an HDCP issue. Is there a possible firmware upgrade or any other strategy I might try to get the HDMI connection to work properly, and consistently? I'd rather not connect the DVR to the TV directly, with a seperate connect for audio to the Denon receiver.

Just in case someone else runs into this same situation I wanted to post. Hooking up to the Western Digital MyDVR worked fine, but at first didn't seem like it would. For me the DVR box reset and asked to format the WD MyDVR twice before it shut off totally. I powered it back up and it was perfectly fine and ready to go.

[QUOTE=lindend;15574568]The SATA diagnostics page will report if the port is enabled.

I have also obtained a Pace DC700X and was wondering how to get to the SATA diagnostics page to see if the feature (external hard drive recording) is enabled. Can you provide instructions? I do not see anything in the Pace user manual about this. Thanks.

I have also obtained a Pace DC700X and was wondering how to get to the SATA diagnostics page

Choose the interface status page and then the SATA page.

Hello all. I have just moved to Anchorage, AK and picked up a Pace TDC787X from GCI. I currently have it connected to my Sony XBR240KDL with an HDMI cable. The picture looks great, but I am confused that the 480i channels (the standard definition digital stuff) is all being sent out of the cable box as a 16:9 signal. Is that the default for the pace box? When I was in Washington, I had a Motorola box and unless it was an HD channel, the box put out the 480i channels as 4:3.

Jeff

Linden,

Any word yet on the CC discrete codes yet?

Bill

About 3 weeks ago I swapped my Motorola DVR for the Pace TDC787X at my cable company - Buckeye. I like the picture quality of the Pace over the Moto plus I prefer its black case. However, I have been experiencing the following 2 technical problems:

1) About 10% of the time when I exit from watching a recorded program (such as at the end when I hit delete or when I hit stop or exit) and it goes back to my list of recorded programs, it loses the TV signal. I can still access the Guide but the TV picture is black. This also happened once when I hit swap to change the tuners. The only way I found to restore the TV signal is to unplug the power cord and reset the unit.

2) When I play at the first Fast Forward speed - FF1 - I have noticed that most of the time it has been playing at a slow motion speed (about 2/3 of regular speed). Sometimes it will play more at normal speed and only rarely does it play at a speed faster than normal. (note: the other fast forward speeds work fine).

Any help or info about these problems would be appreciated. - thanks -

<P.S. : Does this unit have a 250GB hard drive?>

Sigh!! I had thought that after the most recent firmware updates (13.56), after putting my Pace Aspen (TDC776D) on an uninterruptable power supply, after scanning and reformatting the hard drive and resetting my unit that I might have no problems for a while. Not a chance! The Aspen has started to malfunction, again.

I tried to watch the 2 hour season finale of 24 that I had recorded a few weeks back and upon starting playback I was positioned to the end of the "2 hour" mark in pause mode, unable to play it.

Fortunately I had recorded this episode on my trusty old Panasonic HDD recorder too, but of course that wasn't in HD. I shouldn't have to record everything twice.

Prior to taking the aforementioned steps I used to have this problem a lot, with the Aspen's HDD above 80% full. This time the HDD was only 50 % full.

I now have four more programs (with the HDD at 95%) that won't play back, some as short a 1 hour, some as long as 3 hours. In all case the L+F flag is "Unknown" and the file length shows up as "some length {0}". All the programs that do play have the L+F flag as "0" and the file length shows up as "some length {some length}" All the programs were recorded off HD channels. All the programs are among the oldest on the HDD. From the oldest to more recent: 1.5 hours - unwatchable, 3 hours - unwatchable, 1 hour - watchable, 1 hour - unwatchable, 2.x hours - unwatchable, after that all are watchable. At least some of the programs had been watchable at one time, all the way through.

Can anyone help? I have the Shaw cable tech coming later today and may have the unit swapped out but will that help? Thanks.

Very similar problem I just had.. with 2 shows. Each show 1 hour long. The shows are both HD shows. Was approx 80% full... my wife has unfortunately deleted the offending shows so I can't get more info :( (Pace Aspen TDC776D, Shaw Cable, Calgary AB CA)

First show: if you play it it just sits at the end in pause with no picture whatsoever. If you try to start it from beginning, it's just black. Fast forward, reverse, etc., seem to have no discernible effect.

Second show: strange things happened. It recorded perfectly until minute 32... after minute 32, if you hit the skip forward button it goes back to minute 32, and while there is some video after minute 32 the timer doesn't say the video is progressing (always says minute 32). Worse yet, about 5 minutes after (definitely not the end of the show), video totally dies and it goes to the end, black screen, in pause mode, saying it was at hour 1.

I've never had this problem before, lots of hd recordings. We also have firmware 13.56. I can provide more info if desired. Not happy - it's one thing to have minor glitches, but when the pvr can't do the 'r' part reliably, it's not fun.

Thanks,


Sigh!! I had thought that after the most recent firmware updates (13.56), after putting my Pace Aspen (TDC776D) on an uninterruptable power supply, after scanning and reformatting the hard drive and resetting my unit that I might have no problems for a while. Not a chance! The Aspen has started to malfunction, again.

I tried to watch the 2 hour season finale of 24 that I had recorded a few weeks back and upon starting playback I was positioned to the end of the "2 hour" mark in pause mode, unable to play it.

Fortunately I had recorded this episode on my trusty old Panasonic HDD recorder too, but of course that wasn't in HD. I shouldn't have to record everything twice.

Prior to taking the aforementioned steps I used to have this problem a lot, with the Aspen's HDD above 80% full. This time the HDD was only 50 % full.

I now have four more programs (with the HDD at 95%) that won't play back, some as short a 1 hour, some as long as 3 hours. In all case the L+F flag is "Unknown" and the file length shows up as "some length {0}". All the programs that do play have the L+F flag as "0" and the file length shows up as "some length {some length}" All the programs were recorded off HD channels. All the programs are among the oldest on the HDD. From the oldest to more recent: 1.5 hours - unwatchable, 3 hours - unwatchable, 1 hour - watchable, 1 hour - unwatchable, 2.x hours - unwatchable, after that all are watchable. At least some of the programs had been watchable at one time, all the way through.

Can anyone help? I have the Shaw cable tech coming later today and may have the unit swapped out but will that help? Thanks.

I am experiencing another issue with my Pace 787x. I noticed sometimes when I fast forward or rewind, the picture seems to keep jumping a little. It also happens sometimes when exiting the guide, it will do this to Live TV. I experienced this with the factory hard drive and also with my external. Usually exiting the program and going back in, if it's recorded, solves the problem. With live TV, usually rewinding a little and then hitting Live button, solves the problem. I had a couple of these boxes because of this issue, but my cable company, Service Electric Cablevision, is stating this is a problem that Pace would have to fix in a firmware update.

I did a quick search on the thread, but have not went through each page, so I apologize if this has been answered.

I was wondering if anyone knows what color range the Pace TDC787X outputs over HDMI? Is it 0-255 or 16-235? Thanks for any info.

Linden,

My Armstrong buddy emailed me to tell me that a couple Pace reps were here in the Pittsburgh area for the last few weeks working on the FW for Armstrong to hopefully correct some ongoing issues. I know you can't tell me what the fixes were until it's official - but I was wondering if you thought there was any chance of the CC discrete codes being included in this update.

I had an Armstrong tech out to replace both my 787's yesterday - he was shocked I wanted another 2 Pace boxxes rather than Motos! Anyway - the FW was supposedly being pushed out to my area around 3am this morning. I'd like to hear an update on what it was supposed to do when you can.

Bill

I know you can't tell me what the fixes were until it's official - but I was wondering if you thought there was any chance of the CC discrete codes being included in this update.

Let put it this way, I think you're wife will be happy with the captions situation.


I'd like to hear an update on what it was supposed to do when you can.

Will do.

We've been having a lot of trouble with our Pace box locking up lately - hopefully the FW update will fix that as well. Any word if the update will allow the box to work with Denon 3808CI receivers? I'd really like to move the box from my living room to my home theater...

Sigh!! I had thought that after the most recent firmware updates (13.56), after putting my Pace Aspen (TDC776D) on an uninterruptable power supply, after scanning and reformatting the hard drive and resetting my unit that I might have no problems for a while. Not a chance! The Aspen has started to malfunction, again.

I tried to watch the 2 hour season finale of 24 that I had recorded a few weeks back and upon starting playback I was positioned to the end of the "2 hour" mark in pause mode, unable to play it.

Fortunately I had recorded this episode on my trusty old Panasonic HDD recorder too, but of course that wasn't in HD. I shouldn't have to record everything twice.

Prior to taking the aforementioned steps I used to have this problem a lot, with the Aspen's HDD above 80% full. This time the HDD was only 50% full.

More recently I had four more programs (with the HDD at 95%) that won't play back, some as short a 1 hour, some as long as 3 hours. In all case the L+F flag is "Unknown" and the file length shows up as "some length {0}". All the programs that do play have the L+F flag as "0" and the file length shows up as "some length {some length}" All the programs were recorded off HD channels. All the programs are among the oldest on the HDD. From the oldest to more recent: 1.5 hours - unwatchable, 3 hours - unwatchable, 1 hour - watchable, 1 hour - unwatchable, 2.x hours - unwatchable, after that all are watchable. At least some of the programs had been watchable at one time, all the way through.

Can anyone help? I ... may have the unit swapped out but will that help? Thanks.
Any thoughts Linden?

*bumping* for discrete CC codes please! :)

About to bring home a Pace Aspen, just curious are there complications to prevent exporting MPEG 4 recordings which have been saved on an external hard drive to a laptop ?

The recordings are encrypted, so you won't be able to export them.

*bumping* for discrete CC codes please! :)

Sorry, Bill. I know I promised this to you a while back.

Two new discrete codes:


CC: 0x2B
Resolution change: 0x2F

I now have four more programs (with the HDD at 95%) that won't play back, some as short a 1 hour, some as long as 3 hours. In all case the L+F flag is "Unknown" and the file length shows up as "some length {0}".

If you see {0}, that file will never be playable again. Sorry for the bad news.

I have the Pace TDC787x from Mediacom, it's hooked up to a Sylvania 32" lcd tv via HDMI. The only complaint i have with the dvr is that anytime the power goes out or flickers because of a storm, I have to call the cable company and have them send a "hit" (their words not mine) to the box to get it to reset. The whole issue is, after power is back on, the box sends a unsupported format to the tv, which in turn prevents the tv from turning on. However if I pull the HDMI cable, tv works fine. last few times I've just called mediacom, and it all worked out ok. But it's starting to get annoying, is there a issue with this, or am I the only one getting this problem.

[EDIT] After going through this issue again today and cable company was of no help, I finally solved the issue by going into the user menu and telling the box that the tv doesn't support 480i and 480p....seems to have worked. Might go back in a bit and see if I can leave 480p on.....

If you see {0}, that file will never be playable again. Sorry for the bad news.I realize that. I was hoping for some ideas as to what the problem was. How does a once-playable program become unplayable? Is it a physical hard disk problem, just an unreliable hard disk, or is it a logical file system problem? I have swapped the unit out and am now waiting to see if the replacement unit has this problem or not and what other problems it may exhibit. I have to decide, in a month or so, whether I buy the Aspen or switch to a Motorola box, or whether I rent for a while instead. Thanks for any insight.

Sorry, Bill. I know I promised this to you a while back.

Two new discrete codes:


CC: 0x2B
Resolution change: 0x2F



Linden,

Harmony support emailed me and said they need the "Pronto Hex codes". When I emailed their support to ask them to add these codes to my Harmony remote account - I told them exactly what you have typed above - but I'm guessing they're not understanding what I mean or the Pronto Hex Code is different from the discrete codes you gave me. Can you assist me with the info they need? I checked out the Remote Central Pronto Hex Code database and each Hex code there for various components looks pretty long vs. the simple discrete codes listed above.

Hello all,

I've got a Pace TDC776D on Shaw in Vancouver.

It seems to be applying some kind of post processing filter that is very apparent on standard definition content and slightly noticeable on HD content.
I think it's an attempt to smooth the picture, or reduce grain perhaps?

I would like to disable this -- does anyone know how?

Hey all, I have a question for you regarding this model HD/DVR box.

I own this product and would like to video to an external hard-drive. I understand that the DVR itself determines where it saves the video to, based on which drive has more free space. I just picked up a Western Digital 1TB "My DVR Expander" that I plan on using for my additional storage.

However, I love capturing footage to my computer, to be able to share online. I don't own and can't seem to find a capture card that can record off an HDMI input, so I'm looking to know if I can use another 1TB external hard-drive that I have to record the DVR stuff to, then playback those files on my computer.

I'm not sure what file type/extension these DVR's use, and if there's a player or converter for these file types so that they can be played on a computer, and converted to say maybe a .AVI file later. Can anyone help with this??

Thanks,
Andrew

Hello all,

I've got a Pace TDC776D on Shaw in Vancouver.

It seems to be applying some kind of post processing filter that is very apparent on standard definition content and slightly noticeable on HD content.
I think it's an attempt to smooth the picture, or reduce grain perhaps?

I would like to disable this -- does anyone know how?

Okay, I think I've fixed this by turning the unit off, pressing menu, then enabling all display modes (1080i, 720p, 480i, 480p), previously only 720p was enabled.

Hey all, I have a question for you regarding this model HD/DVR box.

I own this product and would like to video to an external hard-drive. I understand that the DVR itself determines where it saves the video to, based on which drive has more free space. I just picked up a Western Digital 1TB "My DVR Expander" that I plan on using for my additional storage.

However, I love capturing footage to my computer, to be able to share online. I don't own and can't seem to find a capture card that can record off an HDMI input, so I'm looking to know if I can use another 1TB external hard-drive that I have to record the DVR stuff to, then playback those files on my computer.

I'm not sure what file type/extension these DVR's use, and if there's a player or converter for these file types so that they can be played on a computer, and converted to say maybe a .AVI file later. Can anyone help with this??

Thanks,
Andrew

Can't be done. Just answered a couple posts before yours too http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=16959776#post16959776 .

Hello! Thanks to all the experts and the Pace staff who are willing to help out newbies such as myself with issues/questions on this box.

Yesterday I upgraded from my old motorola box to this unit and I am having a terrible time getting the remote control to function properly. Essentially it works about half the time and seems to do a decent job in terms of scrolling through channels and the guide, but when I get into set up menus the box refuses to register when I press the center "okay" button or even try and use the arrow keys to navigate the menus. I've tried changing the remote code with no success and I've tried using the remote from every angle/distance I can think of. I'm wondering if I may have a bad box or if this is a known issue or problem that has been addressed (I couldn't find any information in a search). I know it's not the remote because it controls my other devices perfectly. Any help would be much appreciated.

Linden,

Harmony support emailed me and said they need the "Pronto Hex codes". When I emailed their support to ask them to add these codes to my Harmony remote account - I told them exactly what you have typed above - but I'm guessing they're not understanding what I mean or the Pronto Hex Code is different from the discrete codes you gave me. Can you assist me with the info they need? I checked out the Remote Central Pronto Hex Code database and each Hex code there for various components looks pretty long vs. the simple discrete codes listed above.

Bumping to top - Linden you around?

Bumping to top - Linden you around?

Yep, I'm here but this isn't a quick answer. Take a look at this post from dvdmth in the Tahoe thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=10086274#post10086274) on converting hex codes to EFC codes. Hopefully, this will help. Otherwise, you may want to PM him.

Sigh!! I had thought that after the most recent firmware updates (13.56), after putting my Pace Aspen (TDC776D) on an uninterruptable power supply, after scanning and reformatting the hard drive and resetting my unit that I might have no problems for a while. Not a chance! The Aspen has started to malfunction, again.

I tried to watch the 2 hour season finale of 24 that I had recorded a few weeks back and upon starting playback I was positioned to the end of the "2 hour" mark in pause mode, unable to play it.

Fortunately I had recorded this episode on my trusty old Panasonic HDD recorder too, but of course that wasn't in HD. I shouldn't have to record everything twice.

Prior to taking the aforementioned steps I used to have this problem a lot, with the Aspen's HDD above 80% full. This time the HDD was only 50 % full.

I now have four more programs (with the HDD at 95%) that won't play back, some as short a 1 hour, some as long as 3 hours. In all case the L+F flag is "Unknown" and the file length shows up as "some length {0}". All the programs that do play have the L+F flag as "0" and the file length shows up as "some length {some length}" All the programs were recorded off HD channels. All the programs are among the oldest on the HDD. From the oldest to more recent: 1.5 hours - unwatchable, 3 hours - unwatchable, 1 hour - watchable, 1 hour - unwatchable, 2.x hours - unwatchable, after that all are watchable. At least some of the programs had been watchable at one time, all the way through.I have now had the unit replaced and after a couple of weeks this problem hasn't resurfaced, but then it didn't occur for the first month or so that I had the original unit. I am still curious, Linden, whether you have any insight into what the problem might have been. Thanks.

Linden,

I've posted over in the remotecentral forums looking for some help with getting the Pronto Hex Code for the discrete code you gave me. One of the experts over there replied with:

I would know how to produce Pronto Hex for 0x2B only if I saw Pronto Hex, JP1 info, or LIRC data for some other function from the same device.
Probably a web search for "Pace Aspen 787x" would find some IR signals for that device in some usable form. But I don't have time to do that myself.

Can you help me with any the info he's looking for? I can't seem to find anything. Thanks.

Can you help me with any the info he's looking for? I can't seem to find anything. Thanks.

I'll try to dig up the instructions to reprogram the silver remote. Maybe that code will help you with the harmony.

Were you able to reach dvdmth? Pretty sure he would have the answer to your question.

I am still curious, Linden, whether you have any insight into what the problem might have been. Thanks.

Its a bug. However, I'll have to do some research to find out if this was a known issue in the firmware revision you're using (I don't think so, but I'll still need to check).

Hey Linden,

Jason over at Remote Central replied to my post with this:

After a lot of searching... I think this maybe what you are after.

[Link: remotecentral.com (http://www.remotecentral.com/cgi-bin/mboard/rc-discrete/thread.cgi?keywords=4393&highlight=pace#730566)]

and

[Link: avsforum.com (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=11998746&postcount=1004)]


Closed Captions on/off
0x2B
Device Code: 0 Function: 43
0000 006C 0012 0002 0153 00A9 0013 00A9 0013 00A9 0013 0054 0013 00A9 0013 0054 0013 00A9 0013 0054 0013 0054 0013 0054 0013 0054 0013 0054 0013 0054 0013 00A9 0013 00A9 0013 0054 0013 0054 0013 0468 0153 0054 0013 0D13

Hope that helps!

Cheers
JasonHopefully that code works - sending it to Harmony now. I'll post back the results either later tonight or tomorrow.

Bill

p.s. - I had pm'd dvdmth and haven't heard anything back yet - but it was only a day ago when I pm'd him.

Well Harmony added the CC command to my account - but it doesn't appear to be working completely. It seems to only send an "off" command for CC to my Pace box - if I manually turn CC on on the box - that code will turn it back off - but it will not turn CC on. Any ideas?

Any ideas?

Were you able to contact dvdmth?

I have not got a reply from him yet.

Just an update for you Linden.

It does appear that the code for both CC and Resolution change are working.

I think the issue with the CC command in particular - is that after sending it - I have to turn my cable box off - then back on to complete it - after the on/off - CC is indeed back on.

It will turn the CC off at anytime - however - after pressing my assigned CC button to turn CC on - it's almost as if the cable box can't process the command until it's turned off then on again and then after that - CC is on.

I'm not sure why but I don't think it has anything to do with the code Jason at Remote Central came up with - I think it's a shortcoming of the box.

Regardless - even in this state - it's a LOT better than the old way we had to turn CC on and off - which was press power on the box - hit menu - use the arrow pad to scroll to CC - hit enter - scroll to CC on/off menu - hit menu - press power. Obviously at 5am when my wife wants to run on her treadmill and watch tv with the sound off - she doesn't appreciate having to go through all that fuss. This will be a much better solution even with the power cycle needing to be done.

Thank you again and let me know if there's anything you'd like me to test or whatnot.

I've previously had an Apache and then a Motorola 6416 hooked up to this outlet and everything worked fine. I just switched to the Aspen and I'm having an issue.

The coax going in is tight, then hdmi to my tv.

When I turn to any of my premium channels, music channels, and most of the hd channels the screen freezes on the last picture of the channel I was on and that's it.

I've reset the box several times, had a couple hits (successful) sent and resets. Same problem. The few hd channels that work look great, guide is fine on the channels that are freezing too. I haven't tried componet yet.

In the diag menu the ippv value is set to "no", not sure what that means or how to change it.

Any ideas?

I think the issue with the CC command in particular - is that after sending it - I have to turn my cable box off - then back on to complete it - after the on/off - CC is indeed back on.

Let me look into this and I'll update you on what I find.

The equipment lady at the cable company sent out some other type of a hit (not a normal one agents send out) and it fixed the problem. I went back to the diag menu and ippv value is now set to yes. Don't know if that was the fix or not but it's working now.

Lately, my DVR seems to be acting up. The HDD is set to sleep, but for the last few days I've been able to hear the HDD spinning up at night. It spins up, stays running for a few, then spins down, and it does this frequently throughout the night. This only started in the last week or so, and I have made no changes to any of the settings. Any thoughts on what could cause this and how to remedy it?

Thanks.

Hey Linden,

New issue happening you're probably aware of - but I'll tell you just in case. We've been having our DVR functionality disappear over the past few weeks for no reason. When we try to watch a recorded program we get the message that this feature is not available or has been disabled and to contact Armstrong. They've been rebooting - and asking me a list of questions each time - so I'm not sure they know what's going on.

Bill

Sigh!! I had thought that after the most recent firmware updates (13.56), after putting my Pace Aspen (TDC776D) on an uninterruptable power supply, after scanning and reformatting the hard drive and resetting my unit that I might have no problems for a while. Not a chance! The Aspen has started to malfunction, again.

I tried to watch the 2 hour season finale of 24 that I had recorded a few weeks back and upon starting playback I was positioned to the end of the "2 hour" mark in pause mode, unable to play it.

Fortunately I had recorded this episode on my trusty old Panasonic HDD recorder too, but of course that wasn't in HD. I shouldn't have to record everything twice.

Prior to taking the aforementioned steps I used to have this problem a lot, with the Aspen's HDD above 80% full. This time the HDD was only 50 % full.

I now have four more programs (with the HDD at 95%) that won't play back, some as short a 1 hour, some as long as 3 hours. In all case the L+F flag is "Unknown" and the file length shows up as "some length {0}". All the programs that do play have the L+F flag as "0" and the file length shows up as "some length {some length}" All the programs were recorded off HD channels. All the programs are among the oldest on the HDD. From the oldest to more recent: 1.5 hours - unwatchable, 3 hours - unwatchable, 1 hour - watchable, 1 hour - unwatchable, 2.x hours - unwatchable, after that all are watchable. At least some of the programs had been watchable at one time, all the way through.I have had the replacement unit for two months now and it has started doing the same thing. This time a Private Practice, that should have been clipped at the beginning because the preceding program ran long, is unwatchable, as above.

I bought this unit a month ago. (Just before the new equipment was announced.)

What do I tell Shaw tech support? I suppose I'll have to try to get this one swapped out as well since there really isn't anything else that they can do about it, is there? [Edit: How can I get Pace to look into this problem?]

Linden, any progress on determining what the problem is? Thanks.

UPDATE::)
Despite the symptoms being the same as my earlier problem, this one is different and far less serious. It occurred on a recent (as opposed to older), non-HD (as opposed to HD), program and is reproducible (as opposed to seemingly random). It occurred when I scheduled a future recording on a channel to which we don't subscribe.

As such I can live with it. I'd prefer a better guide - one which doesn't let me see, or at least, schedule recordings for, channels to which we don't subscribe but at least this variant is a problem we can try to avoid.

So far then, my present Aspen is free from the random unwatchable programs that plagued my first one. I'll keep my fingers crossed.

New issue happening you're probably aware of

Yep, we're well aware of the issue and are actively investigating. Can you please tell me everything you told the CSR?

In addition, can you please answer some questions:


Do you put your box in standby frequently? If so, do you do so rapidly (i.e. to change something in the Power Menu like captions)?
Have you noticed any correlation between DVR loss and deleting recordings?
Did this problem only begin with the recent software update?

It spins up, stays running for a few, then spins down, and it does this frequently throughout the night.

This most likely is TV Guide updating its database. Later version of the guide write to the HDD more frequently.

Yep, we're well aware of the issue and are actively investigating. Can you please tell me everything you told the CSR?

In addition, can you please answer some questions:


Do you put your box in standby frequently? If so, do you do so rapidly (i.e. to change something in the Power Menu like captions)?
Have you noticed any correlation between DVR loss and deleting recordings?
Did this problem only begin with the recent software update?




1) Not sure what you mean Linden. The box gets turned off when the TV is off etc - but I don't do anything regarding standby. Let me know if that makes no sense.
2) No - none at all.
3) Yes it did. However there were a couple times prior to the update when this happened as well - but not nearly as frequently as now.

The only thing I think we may do that isn't correct is lots of times at the end of an On-Demand show - while credits are rolling etc - we'll just press "exit" to get out - rather than "stop" and going through the menus - no idea if that's possibly a problem.

Bill,

1) Not sure what you mean Linden. The box gets turned off when the TV is off etc - but I don't do anything regarding standby. Let me know if that makes no sense.

Yes, this is what I mean by going into standby. How frequently do you do this per day?

The only thing I think we may do that isn't correct is lots of times at the end of an On-Demand show - while credits are rolling etc - we'll just press "exit" to get out

Shouldn't cause a problem.

Typically, how full do you keep your DVR? Do you mark all your recordings as "I Delete" or do you let the guide delete shows for you?

hmmm....well we turn the TV off/on probably 4-5 times per day (if that). I'll ask my wife as she's the one home with the kids all day - but I don't think they use the TV all that much. The TV in our finished basement is rarely on/off more than once or twice a day.

We manually delete the shows - and the DVR is rarely above 50% full - if that.

We manually delete the shows - and the DVR is rarely above 50% full - if that.

Bill,

I don't know if this is a reasonable request for you, but would it be possible for you to not delete any recordings for a couple days and see if the problem persists? Obviously, if the disk is starting to get full, you'll need to prune unnecessary recordings.

Also, on average, how much time typically passes in between the DVR Unavailable error message?

no problem Linden - we'll leave shows on the DVR.

The loss of the DVR function only happened once or twice prior to that update that enabled CC on/off.

Since that update - we've lost it probably 5-6 times I'd guess. Initially - I was just pulling the plug and rebooting - but then I figured I'd call Armstrong so they could track after it happened 2 times within a day or so. So now they've been doing the remote reboot thing.

I tried to watch the 2 hour season finale of 24 that I had recorded a few weeks back and upon starting playback I was positioned to the end of the "2 hour" mark in pause mode, unable to play it.



I'm having the same problem with my TDC787x from GCI cable in Anchorage. I was having a fair number of reboots and figured maybe it was the 500GB DVR extender. Best Buy was having a sale, so I got the 1TB extender. I'm using the new eSATA cable that came with the new drive.

I set it to record a movie on IFCHD, but when I went to watch it, the progress marker was at the end. Grumbling, I set it to record a future airing of the same movie. I checked it tonight, same thing! Then I checked a movie from USAHD... same thing! A movie on TBSHD was apparently OK. I can't recall this happening on the normal network TV shows (NBC, CBS, PBS, FOX).

I can't recall any spontaneous reboots using the new extender, but it did appear to lock up and then reboot once when I pressed keys too fast on the remote. At least it doesn't require unplugging like my previous PACE DVR.

What information would you like for the next show which isn't recorded? One more thing... I only have one movie on the drive now - so it's a long way from being full. I normally keep the DVR in the ON mode, just shutting off the TV and receiver.

I'm having the same problem with my TDC787x from GCI cable in Anchorage.Sorry to hear you're having this problem too. There have been some earlier reports as well. Your problem differs from mine a little. I have seen no answers to any of the versions of this problem. I was having a fair number of reboots and figured maybe it was the 500GB DVR extender. Best Buy was having a sale, so I got the 1TB extender. I'm using the new eSATA cable that came with the new drive.My original problem occurred on the internal drive with no external drive hooked up.I set it to record a movie on IFCHD, but when I went to watch it, the progress marker was at the end. Grumbling, I set it to record a future airing of the same movie. I checked it tonight, same thing! Then I checked a movie from USAHD... same thing! A movie on TBSHD was apparently OK.My original problem, with previously viewable programs that became unviewable, occurred only for HD shows and most frequently, but not exclusively, when the disk was over 75% full. My subsequent problem occurred on non-HD channels too, even with a largely empty hard drive when I inadvertently scheduled recordings for shows on channels to which I didn't subscribe. These where never viewable to begin with.

I assume that there is no problem with your subscription to USAHD, so your problem appears to be some variant of my original, and not my subsequent, problem. You say your drive is nearly empty now. How full was it when the problem occurred? Also, unlike mine, your shows were never viewable to begin with. I can't recall this happening on the normal network TV shows (NBC, CBS, PBS, FOX).I had the original version of my problem on some network and some specialty channels but only HD channels.I can't recall any spontaneous reboots using the new extender, but it did appear to lock up and then reboot once when I pressed keys too fast on the remote. At least it doesn't require unplugging like my previous PACE DVR.

What information would you like for the next show which isn't recorded? One more thing... I only have one movie on the drive now - so it's a long way from being full. I normally keep the DVR in the ON mode, just shutting off the TV and receiver.Putting my original Pace Aspen on a UPS and reboots & reformats didn't solve my original problem. My second Pace Apsen hasn't, after about two months now, not exhibited the first problem but has the second.

Sorry that I can only commiserate with you. Hopefully Linden will be able to shed some light on this problem.

It appears the "trick file size" shows up as zero on the unwatchable shows. I found this when I was examining yet another show from IFC-HD which wouldn't play back.

As luck would have it, that movie was being re-aired just now, so I manually tried to record a short clip. This time it worked.

Sometimes it says a show is HD, other times UNKNOWN. This doesn't guarantee whether a show is viewable or not though.

I suppose I could use a camera to photograph each diagnostic screen if that would help.

It appears the "trick file size" shows up as zero on the unwatchable shows.

Do you remember what the MPEG File size was when the problem happened?

It would be very useful to see all three pages of the content listing for that recording if/when the problem occurs again.

I just did a simple experiment on the 2 channels (I know of) where it had the problem recording. (IFC-HD and USA-HD). I started recordings on each, then deleted those shows to kill them, then looked at the dashboard.

USA-HD on channel 693 (Tuner 1) shows as AUTHORIZED, but IFC-HD on 638 (tuner 2) shows as NOT AUTHORIZED. Yet I can still watch it... hmmm. And, yes, I'm supposed to get it.

Examining the tuners using the dashboard shows that on tuner 2, the PCR Lock is NO

On Tuner 1, it's YES.

What's PCR Lock?

Here's one movie that wasn't viewable

The first attached image (below) provides details for a Quantum of Solace recording that was initially watchable and then, as more recordings were added, became unwatchable (my original problem). I had this Pace Apen swapped out for one that doesn't, yet, exhibit this problem.

The second attached image (below) provides details for a Private Practice recording that had inadvertently been scheduled to record on a channel to which we didn't subscribe, using my current Pace Aspen (my subsequent problem).

Attempting to watch either of these would immediately produce a screen like the third image (below).

Here's one movie that wasn't viewable

As you already pointed out, your Trick File Size is 0 {0}, like my subsequent problem. For watchable programs, and my original problem, the Trick File Size is non-zero {non-zero }.

Your Average Bit Rate is 0, like my subsequent problem. For watchable programs and my original problem, the Average Bit Rate is non-zero.

Your Record Session Timeis 0, like my subsequent problem. On watchable programs and my original problem, the Record Session Time is non-zero.

Your Compact State Flagis 0, like my original problem. On watchable programs and on my subsequent problem, the Compact State Flag is 1.

I am unclear on what this means.These are differences from watchable programs, however.

As you already pointed out, your Trick File Size is 0 {0}, like my subsequent problem. For watchable programs, and my original problem, the Trick File Size is non-zero {non-zero }......

I am unclear on what this means.

What is the MPEG File size value? Basically, all of the fields you highlighted will be zero if you see 0 {0} for the trick file. In essence, the recording seems to have partially failed, but we're going to have to dig a little to see why it failed.

GCI basically said to unplug the box, wait a while, and they would also rezap my box from their end.

Oddly, I noticed a cable guy working on the pole that serves my house and 3 others today. He killed my internet access briefly before leaving. Probably just a coincidence.

Anyway, I haven't noticed a problem since then, but I haven't really tried to create a problem by recording a lot simultaneously.

What is the MPEG File size value? Basically, all of the fields you highlighted will be zero if you see 0 {0} for the trick file. In essence, the recording seems to have partially failed, but we're going to have to dig a little to see why it failed.For the two problems with trick file size of 0 {0}:

For Roginator's problem (The Sleeping Dictionary) the MPEG file size was 6989611008 {6989611008}, according to the screen shot he posted and
for my subsequent problem (Private Practice)the MPEG file size was 1084496480 {1084496480}.
FWIW, his Analog Copy Permit was NONE while mine was CGMS_COPY_PERMITTED. All the data is in the attachments to our posts, four (mine) and five (his) posts back.