could someone direct to me the hidden channel instructions? Also, is there any HD on demand? I saw earlier in the thread that Old School was broadcast on 820 but that channel does not show up. thanks

Originally posted by Davew0670
hi everyone...new tv and new hdtv subscriber here. Is there anywhere I can get the HD schedule for the week? Mainly interested to see if this sundays Panther game will be broadcast in hd.

TitanTV is a good tv guide listing HD programming

Drew

Is anyone able to use the DVI port on the Pioneer Voyager HD box? I've been dying to use mine but it doesnt seem to work or either my TV doesn't like it. I've switched boxes once but that didnt help.

Originally posted by drew138
TitanTV is a good tv guide listing HD programming

Drew

Search this thread...you will find the information you are looking for.

Originally posted by NUPE009
Is anyone able to use the DVI port on the Pioneer Voyager HD box? I've been dying to use mine but it doesnt seem to work or either my TV doesn't like it. I've switched boxes once but that didnt help.


I am currently using the DVI port on the Pioneer box with my Panasonic plasma. The picture quality IMHO is better using the DVI connection over component.

I've been told that DVI makes a big difference because you have a digital signal as opposed to digital thats converted to analog and back to digital.
That is why I really want to use my DVI port. I may get a different box from TW again. My Sammy DLP isn't recognizing it as a HDTV cable box. It gets a signal from the box and gives me an error. "Please connect the set-top to an HDTV set. See the operating instructions."

I'll may try taking the box by a friends house to see if the DVI port works on their TV.

NUPE009-

What, if anything, did TW tell you about the operationality of the DVI on their box? They told me it wasn't operational, but folks on this forum seem to have 'em working.

Keep us posted.

DVI is working. I had it hooked up to my Sony RPTV and the PQ was awful so I switched back to component. If you have an all digital pathway then you should achieve better results with DVI but if your TV is analog as is mine then it all depends on who has the better DA converter. Appartenly the cable box does in my case.

Go over to the hardware forum and do a search, I seem to remember reading about an issue with DVI and certain Sammy displays.

Channels 292 (HDNet) and 293 (HDNet Movies) have been added (hidden, of course), however there is no audio/video.

I just got off the phone with TW and they said that the VDI port is active. The rep asked if I had a Sammy and told me that others have had the problem and that I should contact Tweeter and they should be able to help me get it working over the phone. I called Samsung and the guy from Samsung is suppossed to give me a call back after he does some research.

Originally posted by jmccurrytech
Channels 292 (HDNet) and 293 (HDNet Movies) have been added (hidden, of course), however there is no audio/video.

Could you define hidden? If there isn't any video and audio then to me it doesnt exist at all. Does hidden mean that it's coming soon?

Originally posted by NUPE009
Could you define hidden? If there isn't any video and audio then to me it doesnt exist at all. Does hidden mean that it's coming soon?

Are you a nerd? Just kidding. These channels are hidden from otherwise normal programming (reserved for new channels to be released). If you review this thread you will find how to enter this mode and understand what we mean. The banner will specifically identify that station...even if the screen is black with no sound. This is how some of us on the board know about new programming before anyone else.

I got my 3510 HD box today. Unbelievable… The picture is simply perfect. SD channels are slightly better than before. I can't wait untill everything is HD.

I asked and was told the DVI should work. I don't have a cable but will buy one and see if I see a difference. I have a 720p Sammy DLP, should be interesting to see if it works.

Originally posted by rcase13
I got my 3510 HD box today. Unbelievable… The picture is simply perfect. SD channels are slightly better than before. I can't wait untill everything is HD.

I asked and was told the DVI should work. I don't have a cable but will buy one and see if I see a difference. I have a 720p Sammy DLP, should be interesting to see if it works.


I've read this thread a week or two ago and saw how to access hidden mode. Now I just finished reading the whole thing again and I dont see it now. I knew I should have written it down right then.:mad:

Originally posted by Davew0670
I've read this thread a week or two ago and saw how to access hidden mode. Now I just finished reading the whole thing again and I dont see it now. I knew I should have written it down right then.:mad:

On my Pioneer 3510HD (not remote) I press the "Select" button and the "Diamond" button at the same time. Not sure for other boxes.

thanks!

The last couple of days I have been getting very loud pops/static when I switch from one HD channel to another. Today I am not getting the sound and nothing has changed from yesterday to today as far as my system goes.

I am using TWC using the 3510HD box and the digital out to my receiver.

Has anyone else heard this. It's very loud.

rcase13,
your issue is simple.Either you have a loose audio cord or its bad.Check your connection.If its tight then call TWC.It may be the box itself.

Originally posted by Vash_Stampede
rcase13,
your issue is simple.Either you have a loose audio cord or its bad.Check your connection.If its tight then call TWC.It may be the box itself.

Initially that is what I thought. Everything is tight. It hasn't done it all day. TV has been on all day. Also it was only on the HD channels. I will take your advice and trade the box in if it does it again.

Makes me glad I have cable. Wouldn't want to shell out $300+ after just buying the TV...

Both channels (HDNET & HDNET Movies) are now active in hidden mode with audio and video!!

Ya, active on Charlotte system. Still notta on Gastonia system :(

Originally posted by namcap
Both channels (HDNET & HDNET Movies) are now active in hidden mode with audio and video!!

Yes that's 13 channels!!!

Are they still showing up this am 12/24?? , When I tried to enter the hidden mode - I cannot access either.

Thanks:mad:

don't know about this morning but watched last night and am loving HDNET! When I first turned it on I saw the Dallas Maverik dancers, superb! Then watched the Bruins play later! Loving HDNET...

Thanks guys. I am able to see the 2 hidden channels. Now i'm going to have to add new buttons on my Pronto under my HD channel list. Now if I could only use my DVI port. Hopefully pioneer will have a firmware update for the box soon.

Originally posted by NUPE009
Thanks guys. I am able to see the 2 hidden channels. Now i'm going to have to add new buttons on my Pronto under my HD channel list. Now if I could only use my DVI port. Hopefully pioneer will have a firmware update for the box soon.

Yep same problem here... I have the Sammy Pioneer problem as well...

More info here: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&postid=3102711

I wonder if there will ever be a fix...

I have the 3250HD, I press Enter & Exit till Diag is on display then I can tune directly tune to 290(ESPNHD), 293(HDNET1) and 294(HDNET MOVIES) but there's just a subscription screen showing.

Posted over in Raleigh thread - I will not be home for a while, but has anyone scanned for ESPNHD again.....

Merry Christmas to all

Channel 290 is INHD so that can't be ESPNHD.

Originally posted by NUPE009
Channel 290 is INHD so that can't be ESPNHD.

That is the channel number in Raleigh.

I don't know about espnhd but I do know that digital phone is coming soon to the Carolinas through TW. Flat monthly rate that includes long distance. From what I have heard the quality is outstanding for VOIP, very comparable to land line service.

I will have one bill for cable, phone, internet connection, security. If only they would start selling electricity and natural gas the postman could skip my house completely...

Cool thanks for the heads up. Other than crappy SD I have been fairly pleased with TW CLT.

I wonder if they will have an option that will not include long distance. We currently use phone cards and don't have any long distance companies tied to our phone. It has worked very well for us. We usually pay a little over .03 cents per minute with no fees of any kind. We get the cards from Sams or BJ's.

Originally posted by rcase13
We currently use phone cards and don't have any long distance companies tied to our phone. It has worked very well for us. We usually pay a little over .03 cents per minute with no fees of any kind. We get the cards from Sams or BJ's.

We just use our cell phones for long distance. Can't beat free.

I've been using Vonage since Sept. and I'm pretty happy with it so far. All the features of the telcos and 500 mins long distance for $25. Can't beat that...yet.

hmmm...do people still have land lines? I shut mine off 2 years ago and the only person who missed it is the telemarketers!

Originally posted by jbryer
hmmm...do people still have land lines? I shut mine off 2 years ago and the only person who missed it is the telemarketers!

Gotta have one for DSL. I can't give any of my money to Adelphia. Switched to DirecTV a year ago and haven't looked back....

Test123

No way in hell I'd shut off my landline, especially consdiering the crappy service provided by cellular.. I guess I'm not willing to trust needing help
in an emergency..

and just what the heck does this have to do with HDTV in Charlotte?

Originally posted by Check123
Gotta have one for DSL. I can't give any of my money to Adelphia. Switched to DirecTV a year ago and haven't looked back....

Putting us back on HD... How many HD channels do you get with DirectTV and what do you do for local HD channels. Do you get PBS and UNCTV in HD?

Also is there anyway to avoid the contracts involved with DirectTV and Dish? I looked at Dish and they had a free HD package but wanted a 2 year contract. I hate contracts...

Finally how much did the equipment cost to get DirectTV HD; STB, HD dish etc...

Not trying to start a war between cable, DirectTV etc just trying to understand all my options. I am really dissatisfied with Timewarner SD quality but love everything else.

Originally posted by rcase13

Not trying to start a war between cable, DirectTV etc just trying to understand all my options. I am really dissatisfied with Timewarner SD quality but love everything else.

As someone who has had both TWC and DirecTV at the same time let me say that the SD is no better on DirecTV than it is on TWC.

Originally posted by HughScot
As someone who has had both TWC and DirecTV at the same time let me say that the SD is no better on DirecTV than it is on TWC.

I guess once you have seen HD you just can't go back... I hate watching regular TV anymore.

rcase -

have you had someone come out and check your cable lines in your house? Signal strength, etc. Maybe you need a line amplifier or something. Although not outstanding I don't have a problem with my SD channels...

Just call TW and tell them you are having a problem and they should come out and check it for you.

Originally posted by sccofer
rcase -
have you had someone come out and check your cable lines in your house? Signal strength, etc. Maybe you need a line amplifier or something. Although not outstanding I don't have a problem with my SD channels...
Just call TW and tell them you are having a problem and they should come out and check it for you.

I asked when the guy came to hook up my HD STB and he said the lower channels will look bad and the upper channels which he said are true digital will look better. He is right my upper channels look much better than my lower channels. He said what I had was the best he could do.

Originally posted by rcase13
I asked when the guy came to hook up my HD STB and he said the lower channels will look bad and the upper channels which he said are true digital will look better. He is right my upper channels look much better than my lower channels. He said what I had was the best he could do.

When I tried Digital Cable from Adelphia I noticed that the channels on the Digital Tier looked just awful. Way too much compression. It took a long time for the channels to load as well.

To answer your earlier question...right now I do not subscribe to any HD channels on DirecTV. My DirecTV receiver (Hughes E-86) also receives the over the air DTV stations. I am able to pick up all of the Charlotte DTV stations including WUNG with a set of rabbit ears on top of my TV.

I bought the Hughes receiver and an elliptical dish from Tri-City Electronics in Conover for around $600 I think....

Originally posted by rcase13
I guess once you have seen HD you just can't go back... I hate watching regular TV anymore.

You can say that again!!!

Has anyone heard whether or not the Panther's game tomorrow will be in HD?

Yes, it will be. Both the 4pm and the 8pm game Saturday will be, as well
as the Sunday night game..all on ABC..

ROCK ON!!! I'm having some buddies over to watch the game. The wife is doing a "girls-night-out" thing. So now I can drink beer and watch football guilt free.

Has there been any talk about a HD Speed channel? I watched a whole days worth of FIA World Rally yesterday and thought it would have been awesome to see it HD.

OK, I've read this all 28 pages of this thread and the other thread mentioned re: issues w/ Pioneer STB's and Samsung DLP TV's -- I have three questions, please:

1. What is the latest model HD STB for TWC Charlotte? I've been using the first one they came out with (SA Explorer 2000HD - no pic preview in guide while in HD) for a year or so and was told by a CSR not to upgrade 6 months or so ago because of "issues" with the then current model -- any issues with the latest and greatest? I like the idea of the scaling built into it and the supposed faster guide scrolling.

2. All of my previous HD viewing has been on my 61" 4:3 Toshiba RPTV or, for a very limited time, my Philips EDTV 42" Plasma w/ e-box. My new 56" Samsung DLP TV should be here this week and I was hoping to use it's DVI port for my, also soon to arrive, Samsung DVI-equipped DVD player but now am wondering if I should invest in a DVI switch to handle the "new" cable HD STB from TWC, but maybe it doesn't even work with the Samsung. Any suggestions?

3. Any way to view the hidden channels (292 & 293 for now) on my SA 2000HD? I don't havce a "diamond" button on my STB remote that I see.

Thanks in advance, E.

ps: Watching the Panthers/Cowboys game right now in HD -- awesome stuff, but I didn't watch the early game but read PQ was even better on it!

As far as I know the latest box is the Pioneer box. Hopefully Pioneer will release the firmware update soon. I would really like to take advantage of the DVI port.
If I were in your shoes I would hold off on buying a DVI switch box until the DVI problem on the Pioneer box has been corrected.
I am not sure how to get in diag mode on your box. I did a search and found this post that may tell you how to get into diag mode on your STB http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&postid=3145627&highlight=sa+diagnostic#post3145627 .

On digital TWC in Concord w/ Pioneer Voyager DVI, the NFL game pixelates, glitches and the sound is like being in a bath room. The analog picture is OK but the sound is still off.

Anyone using TWC or OTA having these issues?

Thks

Originally posted by inmailstuff
On digital TWC in Concord w/ Pioneer Voyager DVI, the NFL game pixelates, glitches and the sound is like being in a bath room. The analog picture is OK but the sound is still off.
Anyone using TWC or OTA having these issues?
Thks

Not OTA or TWC in Gastonia. Of course it's not HD so the picture looks bad as usual. No audio problem at all. I'm using the Pioneer Voyager via component cables. Same with OTA. This is the Green Bay/Seattle game.

Looked fine here at my house via TWC digital. I'll let my contact at TWC know, but you should call and file a service complaint as well.

Perhaps those who don't like the "Not Intended to be HD" WS feed should watch the analog CATV feed instead?

inmailstuff, I had a lot of the same problems with TWC Fox Digital. Channel 240 for me. A lot of freezes, slow downs and glitches. Sometimes the picture would break up. This is the norm for me with football games on channel 240. I just watch the analog feed most of the time. All other channels look great.

- Scott

PS the sound was fine in DD

Shine, please call and report this to TWC as well. I have left messages with
My contacts about the problems.Again, I saw NO problems at my house via
OTA and TWC..

Thanks-

Those of you on Charlotte system, are you still able to unhide HDNet?

Tomorrow night the St. Louis/Carolina Hurricanes game is suppose to be on TWC in HD as announced by Fox Sports. Does anyone know what channel this will be on?

I'll ask ..maybe 250 where the NBA Channel is? I haven't seen anything there yet. Enjoying the HDnets too!

Any word on whether the Panthers v. Rams game will be in Fox Widescreen 480p this weekend?

Yes, it will be.

All the AFC play-off games will be in HD on CBS and all the NFC games will be in ED on Fox.

The SuperBowl will be in HD on CBS...

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=343662

I would like to know if it is best to set my Pioneer STB to output 720p if my HDTV's native resolution is 720p. My box is currently set to output 1080i but I was wondering if I gain or lose anything by changing the output.

From post I have read here on this forum I would set it to 720p so the TV doesn't have to do the work of converting it. However I haven't been able to see a difference.

On the other hand My set is 720p and I swear I think ABC HD looks better. ABC broadcasts in 720p. The only major network to do so I think.

Yes you should set it to 720p and here is why.

Assuming 1080i setting:

A 1080i broadcast is not converted by the STB, but by your tv to 720p
A 720p broadcast is first converted by the STB and then by your tv
Therefore not matter what the output from the station is you convert to watch

Changing to 720p setting out
A 1080i broadcast is converted by the STP but not the TV
A 720p broadcast is passed through without any convertion.

Now if your tv is better than the STB at converting then you can with the TW box output both 720p and 1080i and let the tv do it all. I have found that the STB is quicker than the tv for conversion and since I flip around a lot I prefer to only output 1080i to my 1080i tv

I read a thread stating that Pioneer has released an update for the problem using the DVI port from the 3510 STB with Samsung DLP sets. The thread is http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=289334&perpage=20&pagenumber=1.

Does anyone know if this update has been sent to TW charlotte customers? I recently e-mailed TW to find out and I hope to get a response soon. I may give it a try tomorrow.

Originally posted by NUPE009
I read a thread stating that Pioneer has released an update for the problem using the DVI port from the 3510 STB with Samsung DLP sets. The thread is http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=289334&perpage=20&pagenumber=1.

Does anyone know if this update has been sent to TW charlotte customers? I recently e-mailed TW to find out and I hope to get a response soon. I may give it a try tomorrow.

Well I guess I will answer my own post. TW responded and stated they are current on all updates but they will verify this and let me know if I should expect any updates soon

Originally posted by NUPE009
Well I guess I will answer my own post. TW responded and stated the following :

Actually,

Pioneer did a firmware update which corrected several problems but not that one.
The problem is with the Digital Privacy Interface Protection Scheme which is an
industry standard. While it is possible that Pioneer could "tweek" there OS,
they probably won't. The problem is with Samsung as other manufactures accept
the DPIP from Pioneer the way it is. At any rate, TWC is current on all
firmware updates.

Thanks for the interest,

David G. Krueger
Technical Operations Supervisor

This sounds like a blaming game between Sammy and Pioneer. Oh well... I thought the problem was with more than just Sammy's though?

ABC SUCKS!!!!

I can't believe they aren't broadcasting any of the NHL games in HD today!!

:-(

is fox true hd? The panthers game did not look anywhere close to Pats/Tenn game which not even as good as usual. I think the weather had something to do with that.

Originally posted by Davew0670
is fox true hd? The panthers game did not look anywhere close to Pats/Tenn game which not even as good as usual. I think the weather had something to do with that.
I was wondering if it was just me but now I see that others noticed that the game looked like crap. The picture was grainy and wasn't as crisp as what I'm used to seeing for football from networks such as ABC. I was up all night flipping between the 13 HD channels to determine if my TV had a problem. I also wondered if the weather influenced the picture because I recently move into my house and my cable line has not been burried yet. It seems that this weekend, HD has appeared to be grainy. Right now I'm watching Trading Spaces on Discovery and it looks pretty good so maybe everything is ok.

all my hd channels were fine except the games. I noticed they showed the majority of the Tenn/NE game from the overhead camera. I figured they did this because that seemed to be the best picture they could get. The sideline angles were pretty bad all game.

Originally posted by Davew0670
is fox true hd? The panthers game did not look anywhere close to Pats/Tenn game which not even as good as usual. I think the weather had something to do with that.

From what I understand, the FOX-broadcasted playoff game was never intended to be full HD. It reminds me of the beginning of the outer limits...we have complete control over your TV set...

--Dale--

Fox will broadcast HD in the fall. They do not broadcast in HD. What you are seeing is a 480p image. Like a DVD. It is a NTSC digital image. It fills the screen because it is a Widescreen source. They call it "High Resolution Widescreen". It has also been referred to as EDTV "enhanced definition Television".

For those of you getting the NFL Network on Directv, the Panthers-Rams game will be the Wednesday night NFL Game of the Week in HD shown on Directv channel 84 at 9 pm! Finally...they decide the Panthers are worthy!!!
These NFL Network HD games are great because of the sideline player and coaches mics, in addition to the HD video!

What's the deal with HDNET on TWC?

If hidden, how do I get to it?

Just noticed this morning HDNET in the hidden mode is now just a black screen. Any updates on the HD tier and ESPN?

It's good to see that HDNet and HDNet Movies are back on in the hidden mood.

I just had a CSR tell me (after conferring with a supervisor) that they don't anticipate deploying the HD DVR until summer. I'm a little surprised given that the SC and Greensboro divisions are starting to get them. This is also major slippage from the initial TW website target of fall 2003. Anybody with inside TW connections have any insight on this? Is this the Pioneer/SA software issue discussed in some other threads?

JBryer,

Look back in this thread for info. on how to access the hidden mode. It depends on which box you have.

Originally posted by Mhorn
It's good to see that HDNet and HDNet Movies are back on in the hidden mood

Speaking of HDNet, I grabbed the following quote of their website (www.hd.net):
full-length feature films converted from 35mm to high-definition

How do they go about converting a 2.35:1 ratio 35mm movie to 16:9? Is it a similar method to converting the same to normal television? Pan & Scan I think they call it...

Anyways yes it's good to have HDNet back... Now if someone could just come up with a way to get into diagnostic mode without me having to get my ass up off the couch. The broom stick method isn't working for me... Yes I'm that lazy... :)

So I'm not the only one..

You don't convert 2.35 to 1.77 (16.9) if you want to keep the true aspect ratio. Hopefully it will show up on the tv with black bars on the top and bottom as you get with a DVD that is either 2.35 or 1.85 orginal aspect ratio. Pan and scan cuts off the sides to convert a widescreen picture to 4.3.

Originally posted by Mhorn
JBryer,

Look back in this thread for info. on how to access the hidden mode. It depends on which box you have.

I couldn't find it, that's why I asked.

Originally posted by jbryer
I couldn't find it, that's why I asked.

I don't have my box in front of me but I think you press the select key and the diamond key at the same time. I will verify when I get home. This is for the 3510 box. Not sure for others.

I searched this thread and found the post from HughScot. The hidden mode is as I said in my previous post. Couldn't find anything for the SA box.

HughScot you must be some kind of HDTV geek... Seems like all the good info on this site originates back to him at some point... :p

Of course I think anyone on this site is an HDTV geek. Everyone at work thinks I'm nuts. They just don't seem to care about ratios and resolution etc...

Hey guys, I don't have HD yet, I was waiting on them to get the HD DVR first. Does anyone here have an HD box and a separate Digital DVR? or is it even possible to have both? thanks

There's nothing really good in hidden mode right now. HDNet and HDNet Movies aren't hidden anymore. At least here in the Gastonia system.

Originally posted by jmccurrytech
There's nothing really good in hidden mode right now. HDNet and HDNet Movies aren't hidden anymore. At least here in the Gastonia system.

Cool... Is Gastonia Time Warner?

For those using Time Warner Cable this is information I received as respects receiving HDnet and HDnet Movies. The cost is $6.50/month for these two channels and if you don't already have INHD 1&2 they are included also. If, however, you are currently getting INHD 1&2 you are grandfathered in and you will continue to get those two at no additional cost. But if you do have INHD 1&2 and then add the two HDnet channels for $6.50 and then decide to drop the HDnet channels you will continue to be charged the $6.50 for INHD 1&2. If you don't think you will keep the HDnet channels don't try them or you will be charged $6.50 from then on for INHD 1&2. HDnet is now available in the Charlotte area, including Gastonia, etc.

Hugh

What channel HD net's again?

Originally posted by HughScot
For those using Time Warner Cable this is information I received as respects receiving HDnet and HDnet Movies. The cost is $6.50/month for these two channels.

If they start charging like this for individual HD channels then that will be a sure fire way to lose customers to the Dish services. As I understand it the Dish services do not have a fee for any of the HD channels except Showtime and HBO. Is this a misconception on my part or the truth?

292 and 293

No issue with this at all. Most other TW markets did the following. They held releasing of inhd 1 and 2 until HDNet was out and then charged for the HD-Suite or they charged for the HD-Suite and gave inhd 1 and 2 and then added HDNet (2). Here they just gave us two channels for free and said if you want two more then you pay for all four - not paying for each extra, but for a pack of four channels - this isn't bad. I also think the ESPN-HD will be added to this pack whenever they add it. There are several indications to this effect.

However this won't affect me - I am leaving Charlotte for now (move a lot) and just wanted to thank everyone for the help and info here (especially hidden mode). Have a great year and GO PANTHERS!!

I haven't kept up with the cost of the satellite packages, but I am pretty sure they charge more for their HD packages.

Sure enough I get home and my INHD channels are gone! I called and got signed up! They got me... I spent more than I care to repeat for my HD system, I guess another $6.50 a month won't kill me.

The movies are all 16:9. I wonder how they convert a 2.35:1 movie to 16:9? What am I missing! They had to of chopped something to get it to fit without black bars.

Originally posted by clintyarborough
Hey guys, I don't have HD yet, I was waiting on them to get the HD DVR first. Does anyone here have an HD box and a separate Digital DVR? or is it even possible to have both? thanks

Hey clint,

I have a pioneer hd box on my 1080i input and my DVR on the standard composite inputs. It works fine even though....

- HD will make you not like standard definition programming, so you may not want to torture yourself and end up like chase (the 24 watchers know what i'm talking about, i dont care what they say bdfox18doe, I like fox digital, hate watching analog 11 LOL)

most of the shows that i watch are in HD but i never get to see them in HD because I work second shift, so i cant wait for the HD DVR...

- Your signal may not be strong enough to split that outlet for 2 boxes, if you start seeing blocking and freezing you probally want to take it off

otherwise grab a dvr, i cant live without one anymore :-)

Originally posted by stealthg2000
, i dont care what they say bdfox18doe, I like fox digital, hate watching analog 11 LOL) :-)

Yea,same here.. I am amazed at folks who are given a free hamburger and complain that it ain't steak! But, in about 9 months they will have to start whining about someone else.:D

Well, I WAS getting INHD1 and 2 until that dreaded subscription service screen went up a few days ago. I know that these were channels 291 and 292 but what channels are HDNET and HDNET2? If all 4 channels are included in the package I would probably go the extra $6.50.

292 and 293

Okay, I guess I had my channel numbers mixed up. I guess what I want to know is, will there be all 4 channels in this suite?

Yes, for 6.50 you get both INHDs and both HDnets.

Thanks Hugh! I hate to be without all the available HD channels. Although the programming is not the best, the picture is great and I have to have something to show off my HT besides great looking DVD movies. I live for the day that everything is HD.

Crap! I just called TW to sign up for the $6.50 HD channel package and the lady had no idea what I was talking about! She said she would ask around and call me back. As usual, the right hand doesn't know what the left hand is doing. I saw where someone above had called and signed up so I assumed it was a go. Maybe not.

Yes it is a go. I called yesterday and had no problem. Call this number and no other 1-877-566-4892.

Thanks again Hugh! It sounds like the CS people are still not familiar with this "campaign" and that's why the lady I spoke with before was out of the loop. The memo they had was dated January 12th and took effect January 15th. I can cut them a break for that! I'm not at home so I can't see if it's working! I can't wait to check out HDNET and HDNET Movies!

Hey, does anyone broadcast in 720p besides ABC? I actually think that 720p looks better on my setup than 1080i. It all looks good but tends to vary by program.

WCCB-DT will switch from 1080i to 720p once FOX commences delivery
of their programming in 720p this fall. ESPN-HD is 720p as well.

Thanks! That's good to know. I think it will be a nice improvement.

damn..Since I have both ind channels, I think I'm going to wait until espn-hd is available before I shell out any more $ to TW.

Originally posted by Davew0670
damn..Since I have both ind channels, I think I'm going to wait until espn-hd is available before I shell out any more $ to TW.

Well, if they do your system like they did mine they disabled the INHD channels.

I still have the inhd channels but hdnet and the other channel is blocked.

HDNet is great if you like Texas High School Basketball, Texas Hockey teams and the Dallas Mavericks. Do HDNet Movies show anything that ISN'T on HBOHD or SHOHD?

For an additional $6.95, no thank you.

My cable bill is already close to $150, might as well add 6.95 more! lol

Well, my wait is finally over. My HLN567W was delivered by Tweeter today - I had been waiting on the Samsung Stand and DVD-931HD - both are still on their way, supposedly... <g> I borrowed a friend's old, unused coffee table for the time being and am connecting my DVD via components until DVI nirvana is available.

My first impressions - no UM or SM tweaks yet - very nice PQ. Tweeter also installed two new Pioneer 3510 HD STB's (I was using an SA2000HD, will have to take it back to TWC myself.) and I really like the settings choices for both WS and 4:3 stuff. I have the STB, an XBOX, and a Toshiba 5700 DVD player run through my Yamaha RX-V1 to handle the component video switching which is connected to Comp 3 - which, as everyone knows does NOT support 480i. I temporarily changed to Comp 1 while setting up my XBOX Live account but have switched back to 3. I have the STB outputs set for 480P, 720P, and 1080i thinking the TV's scaler (Tantus Model with Far... 2300?) will perform equally or better than the STB.

I played around with the STB's 4:3 Zoom, Stretch, and Vertical Bar's option and the wife liked the Bar's better -- I may have that name wrong but, essentially, the STB will leave 4:3 alone and display black bars on the sides of the picture. Anyone else have things to try or test on this setup that I can help out with?

Two funny incidents during the install:

1. After connecting the STB, the volume was way too low -- we were having to turn up the receiver into the neg teens -- our usual listening level is around neg 40. Of course, I thought I just needed to turn up the STB's volume to max - no dice. Next, checked out the STB's settings to insure output audio level was at 100 - it was. As we began scratching our heads, we finally remembered the center speaker wasn't connected yet - presto, good volume level!

2. After watching things with no problems for the afternoon, I decided to finally break open and signup to my over one year old XBOX live starter package's subscription. I knew, from reading all the great info on this forum, especially from Arun's DLP guide and threads, that I'd need to switch over to Comp 1 for 480i support, etc. I moved everything back out from the wall and did so, signed up, and promptly got my rear handed to me in a few quick Moto GP online races for "testing purposes." Anyway, I then switched the Yamaha component connection back to Comp 3 and swtiched over to watch some HD cable on the 3510 -- all I got was a "no signal" message on the TV! I tried my DVD player, same problem! Now I'm thinking - doh, I've screwed up something somewhere by switching cables while the TV was on - my imagination was running wild. I then remembered I had switched the DVD player over to 480i thinking the TV's scaler would be better on interlaced signals than on progressive signals from what I've read here somewhere, quick to fix, changed it back to 480p and it worked, but, still no HD cable out of the 3510. So, next thought is to go back to Comp 1 - no signal. Hooked the STB directly up to Comp 1 and Comp 3 (taking the receiver out of the equation as I now am thinking I've screwed up my "high-end" Yamaha receiver some how!) still no signal either way. So, as I'm unhooking the STB to trade it out with the other new one Tweeter dropped off for my plasma which was still working great, I notice one of the Component cable connections on the back of the STB has worked its way lose - plugged it back in all the way - presto, back in business!

Sorry for the length, thought this was too funny to not pass on. Troubleshoot, troubleshoot, troubleshoot -- and remember, this stuff really does work, no matter what you read online! <g>

I'll soon do some naked eye tweaking while watching TWC HD on the 3510 in the UM and let you know the results. Will also pick up a copy of DVE and will let you know how that goes.

Congrats on the new system Ericwe. Got a question for you. I have read that XBOX can output 1080i. Have you tried hooking that up yet?

You are correct in that the XBOX does support games that are written to use 1080i. According to this list, there are very few of those right now:

http://www.hdtvarcade.com/xboxlist.htm

You must go into the dashboard to let the XBOX know what resolutions your output device (TV, Monitor, Projector, etc.) can handle.

According to some folks on another thread around here, Dragon's Lair in 1080i looks awesome.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=209243

OT sort of: I need to try to remember that if I try to play any games that only work in 480i (again, very few of them) I'll need to change to Comp 1 on the HLN as it's the only input that supports 480i. Same thing if I need to ever use the XBOX dashbooard unless I get my XBOX mod'ed - not something I'm planning to do as of now since that would be biting the hand that feeds me per se. <g>

GO PANTHERS!!!!!!

GO PANTHERS!!!!!! TO THE SUPERBOWL!

If only it was in HD :(

yea..maybe next year..

Both the CBS and Fox games were both in 4:3 at my house in Concord on TWC yesterday. CBS ran an ad saying HDTV after the game. Fox is usually ED.

Did other TWC customers have HD/ED feeds?

Thks

Both were 16:9 here. Check the aspect ratio setting in your cable box..

I watched using OTA and TWC and they were both in 16:9 with CBS being HD and FOX 480p. Outstanding picture from CBS with no motion artifacts so something is getting better with 1080i from CBS.

Semi-newbie question here:

I just bought a TV with a built in HD tuner for OTA. The formats it supports are 1081i and 480p as well as 480i of course. Earlier posts talk about different Charlotte broadcasts in 720p. Am I not going to get a decent picture if my TV can't support 720p?

You will be get a great picture when viewing 720p. The signal will be upconverted to 1080i by your tv. Most TVs mfg. in the last three years have been 1080i, 480p & i. Some people have said that a set which does 720p natively will look slightly better when viewing programming done in 720p but I have not seen that difference myself. Enjoy your new TV.

You will be get a great picture when viewing 720p. The signal will be upconverted to 1080i by your tv. Most TVs mfg. in the last three years have been 1080i, 480p & i. Some people have said that a set which does 720p natively will look slightly better when viewing programming done in 720p but I have not seen that difference myself. Enjoy your new TV.

Thanks Hugh, you and everyone in this thread have been very helpful! I've learned tons and saw my first HD broadcast yesterday, the Pats / Colts game. WOW!!!

Sort of disapointed here. I just got HD from Directv installed yesterday and I can't seem to get CBS OTA. I was hoping to be able to watch the Super Bowl in HD.

Can anyone help?

I am in Huntersville and when I looked on antennaweb.org it said that WBTV was available with a color code of Yellow. I am using the antenna that they guy installed, Winegard GS-1000 (non amplified) and it is installed directly above the satelite dish (about 8 feet in the air).

I have a wood frame house with a brick wrap around it. The house is two storie with an attic. Would it be better to relocate the antenna to the attic (20 - 25 feet in the air)?

Is the antenna that he installed just crap? Should I buy a TERK TV-55 instead or a different antenna?

The Winegard antenna is bi-directional and I do have it pointing East to West. I am able to get some digital signals but not CBS. The info that I can find on the antenna says it is good for up to 25 miles in urban areas.

Any help, thoughts or opinions that you all can pass my way would really be appreciated.d

Best regards to all,
Ryan

GO PANTHERS!

If you only have the antenna 8' above ground level that is your problem. One thing about antennas.......noboby ever knows what is going to work where. Do not buy a Terk antenna..........grossly overpriced and doesn't work, as a rule, worth a darn.

Keep in mind that the transmitting tower for CBS is located north of Dallas, NC above Gastonia and next to the NBC tower. Winegard makes very good antennas but I'm not familiar with the model numbers. Channel Master also makes great antennas and two that should work from your location are the 4228 and the 4248. I say should work as it depends on your location and what is between you and the towers, ie trees or a hill. Assuming the antenna is at a sufficient height you should not have a problem. You will need a rotor to get all the OTA channels available as ABC and FOX are off E. Independence Blvd. You shouldn't need a pre-amp unless you have a long cable run.....over 50 ft. A pre-amp amplifies the signal along the cable run, it doesn't improve the signal that arrives at your antenna.

You may have luck in the attic.......it just depends. Height is very important. Outside on the roof would be the best if you don't mind looking at it.

Good luck.

Originally posted by HughScot
Do not buy a Terk antenna..........grossly overpriced and doesn't work, as a rule, worth a darn.

"You are being way to polite here, Hugh"

ABC and FOX are off E. Independence Blvd. Outside on the roof would be the best if you don't mind looking at it.

WBTV,WCNC,WJZY,WWWB are located off N321 @Dallas..WCCB,WSOC,WAXN are located @ Harris Blvd & Rocky River Rd,
with WTVI nearby, and WUNG located more towards Concord.

Out on the roof is best, as Hugh Says. I have a Silver Sensor mounted inside an old recoton disc antenna, and get all 9 locals perfectly.

Good Luck!

:)

On another note, just got one of the new Winegard panel antennas..
Receives VHF High band and UHF..will test soon and let you know!

retail $129..

I have Timewarner HD here in Charlotte. Are there any OTA channels that I am not getting? I am trying to determine if it is worth investing in a OTA STB.

thanks a lot for the input. I will definetly work on getting that antenna moved!

Can you tell me more about the Silver Sensor. I saw that it is only $40 at Best Buy. You said that you get them all but you have the antenna mounted in something... can you help me out there? What is that you have it mounted in?

Thanks, Ryan

thanks a lot for the input. I will definetly work on getting that antenna moved!

Can you tell me more about the Silver Sensor. I saw that it is only $40 at Best Buy. You said that you get them all but you have the antenna mounted in something... can you help me out there? What is that you have it mounted in?

Thanks, Ryan

Originally posted by rcase13
I have Timewarner HD here in Charlotte. Are there any OTA channels that I am not getting? I am trying to determine if it is worth investing in a OTA STB.

Based on what TWC now offers in the way of HD I would not bother with a STB for OTA. I have both and really don't need OTA any more. I could get WB ota and maybe UPN but neither has much in the way of HD programming, certainly not enough to justify the cost of a STB and antenna, etc. Now that is just my opinion and someone else may disagree. The PQ via TWC is the equal of OTA, no difference at my house. I use my STB and a JVC 30k to record in HD and that is all.

CBS & HD SuperBowl question: Anyone know if the local Charlotte CBS channel will be able to feed the 5.1 Dolby Digital signal in time for the Panther's victory over NE? I have not seen any DD coming out of CBS yet.

hey guys, whats a good site to find some good info and deals on hdtv antennas/stb's? i've got a friend in huntersville, which is mostly adelphia. adelphia doesnt offer hd and doesnt plan to have it anytime soon. He has a sony HD monitor with no hd! lol He's new to this, so he is going to need some user education as well... any suggestions would be helpful...

Originally posted by nc-ryan
Sort of disapointed here. I just got HD from Directv installed yesterday and I can't seem to get CBS OTA. I was hoping to be able to watch the Super Bowl in HD. ... GO PANTHERS!

I have found that antennas that claim to get both VHF and UHF don't do very well. You, of course, want to get UHF 23. I haven't found any local sources for antennas, but that's why they invented overnight shipping! If you do find a local source, please advise here or here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=333331). I have found that the little $19 Radio Shack UHF yagi that most stores have in-stock coupled with the mast mounted amp, also in-stock will get about anything I point it at (less WUNG, which is behind my neighbor's house). But then again I'm right in Charlotte. I'm not advocating this as the best setup, just one that's available locally. Again, I'd love to know about better local sources if anyone has that info.

--Dale--

Originally posted by miamijoe
Anyone know if the local Charlotte CBS channel will be able to feed the 5.1 Dolby Digital signal in time for the Panther's victory over NE?

YES! I have seen a press release from CBS and Sony that says the game will be broadcast with 5.1.

I haven't posted 5 times yet so I can't post the URL but I can tell you where it is at... Google.

Search for "super bowl high definition" and it is the first item returned.

Best of luck to the Panthers!

Ryan

I was looking into Voom the other day and damn near gave up my TWC. They offer a great package at a resonable price.

Three problems:

2 year contract
Must have telephone line
$750 equipment charge!!!!


When will the Sat companies drop the rediculous contracts???

Until then I will remain faithful to TWC and my $135 cable bill.

I saw the voom commercial on tv the other day and damn near ran over my wife and dog to get online to see what it was about. I saw the $750 equipment charge and that was all I needed to see. Oh well, I'll keep paying TW.

go read the HDTV programming board and it doesn't sound like many are very happy with VOOM to this point. Lots of redundices in channels and replays of the same shows, etc...

WBTV has been equipped for 5.1 sound for a couple weeks now. I noticed it during the AFC Championship game.

The little blue light was shinning bright during the win over Philly. Sounded like adjustments were being made during first 15 min's, then sounded great:D

yea, but If I'm correct the Philly game was on FOX, and not WBTV...

stand corrected Fox has been blue for a while - credit panther mania no other game counted.... But CBS lit it up finally;) :D

FYI, for what it's worth, I talked to TWC today and they said that they would start getting the HDTV DVRs from Scientific Atlanta in March. Guess I'll just wait until then to get mine hooked up, expecially since the next available time to get HDTV hooked up is 2-13, no superbowl on HD for me :(

Originally posted by clintyarborough
FYI, for what it's worth, I talked to TWC today and they said that they would start getting the HDTV DVRs from Scientific Atlanta in March. Guess I'll just wait until then to get mine hooked up, expecially since the next available time to get HDTV hooked up is 2-13, no superbowl on HD for me :(

If I were you I would go to the Time Warner location nearest to you and take in your present box and ask for the HD box which is the Pioneer Voyager and do it yourself. Absolutely nothing to it. Of course if you are not getting cable at the present time that will not work.

Hugh

Clint,
I agree with Hugh. Just go to the TW office (there is one on Arrowood) and pick up the Pioneer box. Its an excellent HD box and it's a piece of cake to hook up. Just make sure that you have some component cables and you should be all set. Just jump on here if you have any problems. Most of us get an e-mail if you post so someone should help you out pretty quick. You have to watch the Superbowl in HD. You just have to.

James

Quite a few of us have tried to pick up HD STB's from TWC (their Arrowood location) in the past with widely varying levels of success. It really depends on whom you talk with. The best success rate so far has been to send a "complaint" via their web site (once you get turned down via a phone call) and TWC responded very quickly with an email you print out and take in.

Note: Almost all of the examples I know of involve people wanting to swap out their 2000HD boxes for the 3510HD boxes. I belive you'll have a more difficult time if you don't already have an HD box from them to begin with.

My personal expeience was that they would not allow me to swap out my 2000HD or pick up an additional box for myself. They would only allow me to schedule an appointment (weeks in the future) and they would charge me $39 PER BOX for "installation."

FYI: I bought a new TV at Tweeter (Carolina Place location) and they will bring you 3150HD boxes and install them for FREE when they deliver your HDTV. They even brought me a second, new HD box for my exsiting Plasma; even thought I didn't buy it from them. The component cables they use are worth more than $39.

I've switched out my HD box several times on Arrowood with no problem. I was trying to figure out why the DVI port wasn't working with my Samsung DLP set so I went through at least three boxes. It always took them a few minutes because someone had to bring it from the back but I had no problems getting the box.
My first box was delivered and hooked up by Tweeter. That was a plus.

Originally posted by rcase13
I have Timewarner HD here in Charlotte. Are there any OTA channels that I am not getting? I am trying to determine if it is worth investing in a OTA STB.

I actually have only OTA right now (Hitachi w/ a built-in HD tuner), and granted, I don't get the InDemand channels, Discovery HD, etc. that make TWC so appealing (I'm holding out for the DVR HD receiver -- I'm hooked on my current DVR!). But I certainly get a nice array of shows OTA. The best thing about the non-TWC HD channels is Star Trek:Enterprise in HD on UPN. I'm also a big fan of the Gilmore Girls on the WB, and I've caught glimpses of shows like Smallville and The OC in HD, and they look great as well. If you're a fan of any of these shows, you may want to go OTA for them if you feel it's worth it. If not, then I'm sure TWC will fulfull all your HD programming needs.

Bottom line, is, you're only missing two channels that do any HD of note in the Charlotte area if you only have TWC.

Just learned that NBC with broadcast the Daytona 500 in HD in February. For those not into Nascar that's an automobile race. :D

sweeeeeeet

Someone refresh my memory.......what is the model number of the new Scientific Atlanta box that will have PVR? I think it's the 8000HD but can't remember.

SA8000HD.

The box's DVR application software for the Charlotte area should be Pioneer (Passport) rather than SA (SARA). The SARA version has already been deployed in a few limited areas (including like SC) and the Passport version reportedly will be coming out in a few months.

Originally posted by bdenman
SA8000HD.
The box's DVR application software for the Charlotte area should be Pioneer (Passport) rather than SA (SARA). The SARA version has already been deployed in a few limited areas (including like SC) and the Passport version reportedly will be coming out in a few months.

Time Warner has told me that only Minnesota has them at the present time as a test area. While they didn't mention Pioneer I am using the Pioneer Voyager now as my HD box. Perhaps Pioneer is under contract with SA.

I just couldn't remember the model number but went back and looked some more and it is the 8000HD. At least that is what it is called if it comes from SA.

I and a number of others here in SC (Columbia, Sumter, Myrtle Beach) had SA8000HD's installed over a week ago by TWCSC. Green Bay Minnesotra was just the first site.

Scientific Atlanta makes the SA8000 HD DVR and it can run application software that is not SA's. Charlotte's TWC head end runs Pioneer brand software and it apparently can support boxes from SA, Pioneer and Pace. Columbia's head end runs SA brand software and apparently supports only SA's own box. The type of software can be discerned in the bootup or in the diagnostics (either Pioneer Passport or SA's SARA). Discussions on this box have occured in the Recording forum and our Columbia forum here at avs.

Originally posted by bdenman
I and a number of others here in SC (Columbia, Sumter, Myrtle Beach) had SA8000HD's installed over a week ago by TWCSC. Green Bay Minnesotra was just the first site.

Scientific Atlanta makes the SA8000 HD DVR and it can run application software that is not SA's. Charlotte's TWC head end runs Pioneer brand software and it apparently can support boxes from SA, Pioneer and Pace. Columbia's head end runs SA brand software and apparently supports only SA's own box. The type of software can be discerned in the bootup or in the diagnostics (either Pioneer Passport or SA's SARA). Discussions on this box have occured in the Recording forum and our Columbia forum here at avs.

Thanks for that information. It seems each division is run like a separate company.

My family and I sat down tonight to enjoy "A Bugs Life" in HD and wow it looks great. But do we have to watch the gigantic color channel 9 ad in the upper right hand part of the screen? Soon enough they will start placing it in the middle of the screen...

Originally posted by rcase13
My family and I sat down tonight to enjoy "A Bugs Life" in HD and wow it looks great. But do we have to watch the gigantic color channel 9 ad in the upper right hand part of the screen? Soon enough they will start placing it in the middle of the screen...

I noticed that, too. I almost popped in my DVD version of the film, it was so annoying. They need a more subtle logo, and need to post it less often. But still, you gotta admit the picture was pretty sweet. And I guess you gotta give them (ABC and Channel 9) snaps for actually broadcasting as much as they do in HD. Have you watched that show "Less Than Perfect" in HD? It's a cute little sitcom that takes place in a newsroom/office, but it's broadcast in Dolby Digital 5.1 and you can actually hear office conversations, typing, etc. in the surrounds! Impressive attention to production detail for a simple sitcom. How come Friends can't do that? (I guess at $1M/episode/friend, their money is going elsewhere, huh.)

thanks for the advice guys. They said that I had to do the $39 installation since I don't have HD already. I'll just wait until the HD Dvr comes out, I would be ok with having two boxes for now(and paying the extra money), but it's just too much hassle. Since I'm not gonna get it before the superbowl, I can wait a little longer I just hope they don't start pushing the HD DVR back more :(

can someone explain why tw charges $39 for someone to come hook my box up? I was furious when TW guy came in, hooked the box up and called the number on the screen. I could have done that. Matter of fact, I'll be calling TW tommorrow and asking them myself.:)

Originally posted by Davew0670
can someone explain why tw charges $39 for someone to come hook my box up? I was furious when TW guy came in, hooked the box up and called the number on the screen. I could have done that. Matter of fact, I'll be calling TW tommorrow and asking them myself.:)

Because most people couldn't begin to do it themselves. Probably 90% couldn't based on the people I've taked with over the years.

Profit Center?

Originally posted by HughScot
Because most people couldn't begin to do it themselves. Probably 90% couldn't based on the people I've taked with over the years.

Nail on the head... $39 for the limited number of people who get HD means nothing to TWC. Can you imagine the number of boxes they would get back because the owner figured the box was broke. When in reality they probably didn't connect it right.

Originally posted by rcase13
Nail on the head... $39 for the limited number of people who get HD means nothing to TWC. Can you imagine the number of boxes they would get back because the owner figured the box was broke. When in reality they probably didn't connect it right.

Agreed. Sending someone might seem like a higher cost option, but if you didn't send someone, you'd not only have to train your technicians, but also have to train the non-technical people that answer the phones, write "wizards" that the people on the phones would use, etc. Maybe some day...

--Dale--

FYI, Charlotte (actually KingsMountain/Shelby) Update:
per Phil of TimeWarner Charlotte:
There are known issues with the 3510Pioneer HD boxes:
1. When it is connected via digital audio out. Crackles & pops occur when changing channels. There is no known solution but lots of complaints.
2. Regarding the ABC HD feed. Over time the sound & picture will lose synch. Like a godzilla movie. Unplugging the box & replugging it will temporarily fix it.
The last firmware was uploaded to our boxes on 1-20-04.
Nothing above was fixed...PPV was modified.
DVI is enabled & does work but only if component is not connected.
On my Infocus7200 it only outputs 720p.
No significant picture improvement (contrary to the dvi hype).
You lose the ability with DVI to select formats like via component where you can enable 1080i, 720p, 480p & 480i.

Hey speaking of synch issues, especially ABC. I have a set of rabbit ears attached to my Sony Projection TV that has a built in HD OTA tuner. I've noticed that there seems to be an audio / video synch issue from time to time. Is that a common problem or just mine?

Originally posted by russman16
Hey speaking of synch issues, especially ABC. I have a set of rabbit ears attached to my Sony Projection TV that has a built in HD OTA tuner. I've noticed that there seems to be an audio / video synch issue from time to time. Is that a common problem or just mine?

This is a very common problem be it OTA or via Cable. The networks have gotten better but during the State of the Union address CBS was horrible and NBC was the best. It varies but has improved over the last couple of years.

Originally posted by cajunlab
FYI, Charlotte (actually KingsMountain/Shelby) Update:
per Phil of TimeWarner Charlotte:
There are known issues with the 3510Pioneer HD boxes:
1. When it is connected via digital audio out. Crackles & pops occur when changing channels. There is no known solution but lots of complaints.
2. Regarding the ABC HD feed. Over time the sound & picture will lose synch. Like a godzilla movie. Unplugging the box & replugging it will temporarily fix it.
The last firmware was uploaded to our boxes on 1-20-04.
Nothing above was fixed...PPV was modified.
DVI is enabled & does work but only if component is not connected.
On my Infocus7200 it only outputs 720p.
No significant picture improvement (contrary to the dvi hype).
You lose the ability with DVI to select formats like via component where you can enable 1080i, 720p, 480p & 480i.

You mentioned that DVI does not give a picture improvement as one of the issues with this box. Do you think this is a limitation of the box or is this the same behavior seen on other boxes.

I have compared DVI vs component several times with my panny pa2ou (EDTV) plasma with the Pioneer HD cable box. In my opinion the DVI connection produces less pixelation than component. Anthony

Does anyone have a date on when the HD recorders will be available from TWC or what the likely cost will be?

Good Morning,

Per my counterparts in The Charlotte Division -

"The Charlotte Division is currently testing the HD DVR. We expect testing to be complete and full product roll-out before the end of 2004. We are eagerly anticipating the launch of the HD DVR product and hope that testing allows us to launch sooner rather than later."

Pricing is still under consideration and will be announced concurrent with the launch.

Thanks Diana.
What this means for all us TWC customers here in Charlotte is to send them an email/call them so that they KNOW we all want HD-DVR desperately! Business is business, and if they know they'll get a good ROI they'll provide it. I really think TWC has done a good job about realizing and responding to market demand here.

I got pretty much the same response when I called to inquire about the SA 8000HD. I also asked by email and got the standard response (below).
I have seen press releases in early December about Time Warner rolling out the SA 8000HD in Green Bay. I looked on the TW GB web site but there was no mention of it.
On a different note I saw where SA previewed a Explorer 8300 Multi-Room DVR at the 2004 Consumer Electronics Show. Who knows, maybe we will see something by this summer.

=================================================
Subject: Re: DVR for HDTV
Date: Fri, 23 Jan 2004 09:26:07 -0500
From: Time Warner Cable Charlotte <support@twcarolina.com>

Thanks for writing. We will be rolling out this converter later this year.
I can not give an exact time frame for this but a safe bet would be this
summer. If you have any additional questions please let us know.

Sincerely,

Chris
Electronic Support Specialist
Time Warner Cable Charlotte
High Speed Data Services
24-Hour Technical Support Help Line 704-943-2337
http://www.twcarolina.com

I understand you are anxious to receive this equipment and the old "I want my MTV" idea of call you local cable operator may seem to make sense. But, please believe me, the launch of this equipment is not tied to customer desire.

As a Division with Pioneer Converters, The Charlotte Division must wait until that version of converter is approved by TWC Corporate Engineering. No matter how many times you call or write, it will not hasten this process.

The reason we have already launched HD DVRs in SC and Greensboro and Green Bay is because we have SA Converters which have already received Corporate Approval.

I'm not trying to say that you shouldn't call or write or make your desires known, just that it is not going to speed up this particular project.

Diana,

Many thanks for explaining the situation; the knowledge does help. For me, the HD DVR is significant as I will not subscribe to cable until I can get HD and record it. If HD were available 'on demand' this would be good, but I suspect that the bandwidth requirements would be prohibitive.

I take it from you email that the Carolina's will not recieve the SA recorder, but will use a Pioneer implementation. Is that correct.

Always glad to provide info.

First, HD Movies on Demand are also in testing. While they are having some difficulties working out all the bugs, once it gets up and running, it will be an issue of server capacity rather than bandwidth.

As far as converters in the Carolinas - here is what I know (ie, I could leave something out)

South Carolina is exclusively SA - headend and converters
Charlotte is Pioneer
Greensboro supports Pioneer, SA and Pace
Raleigh is Pioneer and Pace (I think)
Eastern Carolina (Wilmington) is ??

Phil of TW Charlotte called again:
There is still no resolution to the crackles & pops present in the 3510 digital audio out.
At least they acknowledge it is an issue.
Diana, can you shed some light on this issue and why the fix is so slow?
Thanks

The HD DVR is what is holding back my purchase of an HDTV. Simply can't live w/o dvr once you get used to it. Any idea how large the hard drives in the HD DVRs are? Will the box be similar to the 3510 as far as HD features?

Good Morning,

cajunlab - I'll see what I can find out for you

mduskin - The SA8000 HD that we have issued in SC is 160 GB which records 20 hours of HD or 80 hours of SD.

I do not know which Converter Charlotte will utilize for their HD DVR launch, so I don't know if it will have the same size hard drive. Also, I'm not familiar with Pioneer converters, specifically the 3510, so I cannot address that.

Again, I'll see what I can find out for you and follow up.

Good afternoon metro-Charlotte folks,

My name is Keith Crawford and I work in Marketing at Time Warner Cable's Charlotte Division. Diana and I have spoke at length about this forum, and I'm here to be to represent Charlotte in an official capacity.

I'll do my best to provide prompt responses to your queries about our services in Charlotte, but be forewarned: I'm not a technical powerhouse when it comes to AV technology. If I don't know an answer, it may take me time to ask the right folks and get an answer to you.

Like Diana, this isn't my only responsibility, but I am here to help.

A few meta-issues:

1) HD DVR is something that I'm really looking forward to. The official date we launch in Charlotte has not been determined as we're waiting for corporate sign-off on the product that we'll launch. As we are a publicly-traded company, improper release of information could materially alter investor expectations.

As soon as I'm able to release dates, I will do so with pride (and come to you guys for model numbers to check out on a new HDTV for my living room).

2) The hard disk capacity of the model we launch has not been determined. Should you get a HD DVR from Time Warner Cable and a newer model be released with greater storage capacity, you can upgrade at no cost once the newer model is available. Just bring your box by a payment center.

3) There seems to be a lot of talk about the 3150 boxes and audio output. When speaking with our head engineering guru, he doesn't recognize a problem with the box, but there is a standards issue that he mentioned to me.

Due to a new digital standard, you may be noticing a 10db decrease in volume when you navigate to a high definition channel from a standard definition channel. If you adjust your volume upward to compensate and navigate to a standard def channel, the volume will jump up on you. (Hold your ears). Technology will catch up.

Hope this helps,
Keith

Keith Crawford
Marketing
Time Warner Cable
Charlotte Division

Welcome Keith-
Glad you are here!

Keith, Very pleased to have your input.

Welcome Keith and Diana! Charlotte has come a long way since I started this thread and the future is definitely looking bright. Tell Phil that Steve Blair (me) said hello. He'll remember me. We used to talk at length when we were waiting on ABC, HDNET, etc.

I do not have audio problems but I only watch HD through component and regular tv through RCA jacks anyway. The reason is that the two mediums are under different frequencies anyway the way I understand it. So if you calibrate for HD then your regular tv doesn't look good and if you calibrate your regular tv then HD doesn't look good. The way around that is to watch HD through component or dvi and regular cable through RCA or Svideo inputs. Otherwise your brightness, contrast, tint, etc will vary SIGNIFICANTLY between HD and standard programming. I fear this will be the problem until analog is finally and thankfully turned off in 2006 (we hope).

Anyways, once again welcome to the forum and we look forward to your input here. Can't wait to get the HD-DVR here as well :)

Keith,

Can you say if Sue Breckenridge is still in Charlotte with TWC?

Hugh Campbell

Yes, Sue is our VP of Public Affairs (and a really neat lady).

Keith,
Welcome & thanks for your input.
Regarding the 3510 box...please speak to Phil (the HD rep) at TWCharlotte regarding this issue. I'm on his "call when there is a fix" list.
He is aware of the problem.
The issue is severe crackling & popping through the digital audio output of the 3510 box when you change channels (not a volume change).
He acknowledged the problem & said there was no fix yet.
We NEED the digital audio out for Surround Sound...otherwise it's just analog stereo...yuck.
TWCharlotte can really use someone like you!
Thanks & please keep us posted.

In the for what it's worth dept. I just heard from someone at TWC CLT that they are hoping in 4 to 6 weeks to have the PVR available.

Keith,

Could we have your email address at TWC?

Hugh Campbell

Hey cajunlab, if you're on a call to fix list, then the guys and gals in support will be getting to you in the order that you called to report the problem. The folks that handle the HD stuff are the cream of the crop.

I realize that I probably wasn't too clear about what I can do and I can't do. I can't arrange escalated service calls, troubleshoot specific signal problems, or handle billing issues. I can, however, answer questions about channel launches, new service launches, etc. So with that said, I guess I'm here to be helpful...but I don't have the training (or the time available) to be that helpful.

If you need to email for the purposes of this board email me at:

m_a_r_k_e_t_i_n_g@t_w_c_a_r_o_l_i_n_a_DOT_c_o_m

(The person that checks that email address will forward things to me as they apply, but I don't need to provide the spammers on the internet another address to market their wares to.)

If you have a specific signal or hardware problem, please give our support folks a call at 1-866-872-4898.

Re: rumor of 4-6 weeks for HD DVR. I spoke with our lead engineer last night. Whomever "leaked" that pearl of false information must be out of the loop. Even if that were true, getting product for roll-out that fast is pretty close to a logistical impossibility.

Re: 3510 digital audio out. I spoke with our guru and he thinks this is likely a Dolby Pro Logic issue. Check with your receiver manufacturer’s technical support, but I have two proposed work arounds. 1) See if you can use another digital audio out or 2) Take the system out of Dolby Pro Logic mode. Yeah, analog audio out is kind of like driving a beat-up old van after driving a new german uber-powerful luxury sports sedan. It’ll get you where you’re going…but no way near the way you’re accustomed to traveling.

Keith,
Thanks.
Unfortunately there is only one digital audio out jack (coax).
I went so far as to install a coax-to-optical converter to see if it was a static or grounding issue but got the same problem.
I am using a Pioneer 49TXi receiver with the Pioneer3510 box.
I tried other receiver brands with the same result.
(Kinda make it hard to market surround-sound.)
Please keep us posted as I don't get the feeling much is being done....per my conversations with Phil....forgive the cynicism.
Thanks again!

Originally posted by cajunlab
Keith,
Thanks.
Unfortunately there is only one digital audio out jack (coax).
I went so far as to install a coax-to-optical converter to see if it was a static or grounding issue but got the same problem.
I am using a Pioneer 49TXi receiver with the Pioneer3510 box.
I tried other receiver brands with the same result.
(Kinda make it hard to market surround-sound.)
Please keep us posted as I don't get the feeling much is being done....per my conversations with Phil....forgive the cynicism.
Thanks again!

I thought I was going crazy. No one else knew what I was talking about. I get the same popping noises when switching channels. I have a Denon 4802 surround receiver and of course the 3510. I have never had a problem untill the 3510. Cajunlab has a Pioneer receiver and still experiences the problem. Seems to me Pioneer would step up and solve the problem that effects their own products. I see know reason to call Denon technical support when it is obivous that this is not a problem with their product. I guess it will take as long for Pioneer and TWC to admit the problem with the audio as it did for them to admit the DVI/Sammy problem. Let's see, as I recall they first started telling us to call Samsung technical support! Sorry to be so critical but at $145 per month this kind of support just pushes me ever closer to DirectTV or Dish.

Have you tried another box? I have the 3510 and don't have any problems nor do any of my neighbors with the same box.

I have tried FOUR 3510 boxes...all with the same result.
What's funny is Phil (who really is a nice guy) misunderstood that I had B&K equipment.
He said he heard it was an issue with B&K.
That's when I reminded him I have Pioneer.
Thus the feeling that everyone is waiting for someone else to do something (Dilbert-style :)).
Please help TW!

Originally posted by sccofer
Have you tried another box? I have the 3510 and don't have any problems nor do any of my neighbors with the same box.

I have tried other 3510 boxes with the same problem. I haven't tried other receivers due the high cost involved. Cajunlab has tried other receivers to no avail. I have tried conditioning the power by buying an expensive Monster Power conditioner which didn't do anything except lighten my wallet. It does have some cool blue lights though... I also tried different cables and even repositioning the 3510 for fear that some strange magnetic interferece was causing the popping. It looks as though TWC may be starting to own up to the problem. I think it will just take some time. By then I would have switched to the DVR box.

Pardon my stupid but why are you using the 3510 box? I've got the Pioneer Voyager HDTV box which doesn't have a model number on the rear and when I picked it up it had no manual so it may be an 8808 as this is the only number on the rear that makes any sense but it is combined with other digits. Maybe I'm using the 3510 for all I know but I've never had the issues you folks have been describing and my receiver is the 4802. I've been using this box for months.

I wonder if it could have anything to do with location? I'm up in the University area & have been using the 3510 box with a Onkyo TX-SR610 receiver for quite a while and have never had this problem.

Originally posted by HughScot
Pardon my stupid but why are you using the 3510 box? I've got the Pioneer Voyager HDTV box which doesn't have a model number on the rear and when I picked it up it had no manual so it may be an 8808 as this is the only number on the rear that makes any sense but it is combined with other digits. Maybe I'm using the 3510 for all I know but I've never had the issues you folks have been describing and my receiver is the 4802. I've been using this box for months.

That is the correct box that most of us use. The full model number can be found underneath the box: BD-V3510HD. We have the same set up with the same hardware it sounds like. I don't know what factor is causing the problem. If it is present in different types of surround recievers then one has to believe the problem is within the 3510. TWC has even alluded to this. I say we trade 4802's!!! Just kidding. If yours is like mine it's 50lbs and has a thousand cables running to it. I wonder if the cable box has an advance setting that can help this. If you don't mind let me know exactly how you have yours set up. Not that there are many choices but you never know.

I've got my box connected to the 4802 via component cable and to my 4802 via digital coax for the audio. That's it and it works fine. It also works fine using standard audio cables to the 4802. And you are right, I'm not unhooking thousands of cables from my 4802 to exchange. :D

Good luck.

Hugh,
Consider yourself lucky.
As for the rest of us......
I first notified TW 6 months ago.
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=270650&highlight=3510

Keith,

Some questions about TWC pricing and marketing. I find the pricing information given at

http://www.twcarolina.com/services/pricing_and_packages/charlotte.asp

and

http://www.twcarolina.com/downloads/Lineup_Charlotte.pdf

remarkably confusing, and I know from talking with others that I am not alone.

For instance, what do I need to recieve HD? There are details of what is needed for digital cable, but no mention of HDTV.

Do I need to get standard cable to have 'navigator+' for HD or can I just have basic? Can I add in other option packages without standard cable, such as HBO?

The channel line up mentions 'digital basic', which is not mentioned in the pricing page, though I assume these are what you get with 'basic cable' + 'navigator+'.

What package do the 'HDTV' channels come with - 201, 220, 225, etc?

Can I use the standard definition DVR and get HD at the same time?


The HBO popup refers to the need for 'digital cable', but the main page talks about 'navigator+', which may be the same thing, but it is not clear.

Is there an extra charge for HD? Another page talks about a $40 installation fee per HDTV, but this is not on the pricing page.

From the channel listing, it looks like UPN and WB are not available in HD in Charlotte, even though these channels do broadcast in HD in other areas.

Channels 290/291 are marked as HDTV, but have no marker to indicate that a HD converter is required. Channel 358 is colored for HD and its name implies HD, but it is not clear what package it goes with by color - one assumes the Showtime package, but this is left up to the reader to work it out.

HBO on demand is marked as requiring a HD converter, but does not indicate HD content. Is it HD?



Sorry to be hard on you, but it seems like TWC are trying to put people off using thier services by making the pricing as complex as possible.

Suggested changes.

1) Mark all channels in the line up by a package abbreviation. Then have the abbreviation in a key that links to a package name that exists with the same name in the pricing lineup.

2) Mark the HD channels with an extra column, asterix or other marker.

3) On the pricing page, use common naming. If you want to call it 'navigator+', always use that term, not 'digital cable'.

4) Be clear about the prerequisits for each package.

Hey Cajunlab-

You mentioned a coax-optical converter. Where did you get such a thing?

How much?

Sounds like that might cure my life's problems.

Thanks

Audio Authority makes it. http://www.audioauthority.com/aacconsumers/977detc.html
I wasted $80.00. It did not stop the crackling & popping sounds from the 3510 box.
I later found out Radio Shack makes the same thing for about $20.00.
The inverse could be useful (optical-coax) for long digital runs (i.e.XBox) since you could run RG6 instead of costly optical.

See MCM Electronics.com..they have the convertors in both varieties,
as well as optical extenders.

A better choice is the Midiman CO2, about $75 at the Guitar Center,
it is bi-directional, and does both optical and coaxial.

http://www.midiman.com/index.php?do=products.main&ID=c6dd338f6c8a68ea09fbfcf54039be6b

Welcome Diana and Keith. I appreciate your participation on this forum.

Keith, can you share any information on when you will add the local WB and UPN HD channels?

Diana & Keith,
Sorry to be so persistent BUT:
Is there any definitive answer from TimeWarner to the "3510box-crackle&pop-via-digital-audio-out-when-changing-channels" issue?
I've been waiting 6-months now.
Please and thank you.

Originally posted by cajunlab
Diana & Keith,
Sorry to be so persistent BUT:
Is there any definitive answer from TimeWarner to the "3510box-crackle&pop-via-digital-audio-out-when-changing-channels" issue?
I've been waiting 6-months now.
Please and thank you.

Since I don't have this problem I am curious as to why you think it is the cable box when the majority of people have no problem and I believe you have tried other boxes of the same model?

Ok.. Based on my experience with Dolby and FOX's 5.1.... According to those who know more than I do..This is an implementation issue in the consumer decoder, otherwise known as sloppy code.. The dolby decoder should cleanly "mute" when the stream changes for any reason. That does not always happen.
If the analog audio output of the cable box pops, then it is in the cable box audio circuit. If the pop occurs in the "receiver" or "decoder" fed by the digital output of the cable box, then it is in that unit. Some DVD's cause
this problem when the audio mode changes between DD 2.0 and DD 5.1.
You may or may not hear this same "pop" when we air FOX's 5.1 and go to
our local breaksin DD2.0. Some decoders pop, others mute cleanly. There is no fix for this if you are unlucky enough to have the problem. Having done the test here with multiple decoders and receivers, there are many combinations that have this problems.

Brad,

We have space reserved for those channels and will offer those channels in the HD programming space when they offer more than the current three hours or so of native HD programming since that content is already available on your standard programming channels in standard def.

savagez3,

I've printed your post and I need to do some research. You raise some very valid questions, but it may take me some time to get back with you on your questions concerning the tier structure etc.

- Keith

Originally posted by cajunlab
Diana & Keith,
Sorry to be so persistent BUT:
Is there any definitive answer from TimeWarner to the "3510box-crackle&pop-via-digital-audio-out-when-changing-channels" issue?
I've been waiting 6-months now.
Please and thank you.

Just for fun I did a search on AVS and found a number of people on the NY local forum were using the 3510 and none have this problem. I also checked on a couple of other forums and found nothing re problems on this box. Perhaps it is something else in your equipment that is causing this problem. Have you tried going direct to the TV?

Thanks everyone.
I really wanted a TW response, too.

Hugh,
TWCharlotte has acknowledged a known problem with the digital audio out causing crackling & popping. The NY people are lucky or something is different...who knows...but it's not just me.
OTOH, I have received numerous PM's from people in the same boat with me following my posts who are frustrated that no one at TW will address the issue.
I have switced receivers which is the only item between the 3510 and the speakers with the same bad result.
I can't go directly to the TV since it is an Infocus 7200 projector (no sound, video only).
Also, I'm on my 4th 3510 box.
Thanks, though.

bdfox18doe,
i would have assumed the analog and digital audio circuits were independant from each other.....since analog never does it and digital always does it.
The sound is a crackling & popping that last up to 3-seconds, not a brief pop.
I infer you are saying I'm SOL....hope not.
If so I will have to switch to D*Tv...which has fewer HD channels.
:(
I had higher hopes for TW to solve it.
You can really feel the bureaucracy with a problem like this....
Right now I'll switch to the HDTivo box when it is released.
If that doesn't do it then the heck with it.

Again, Thanks for everyones help.
I do appreciate it.

How about it TimeWarner....any hope?

We have space reserved for those channels and will offer those channels in the HD programming space when they offer more than the current three hours or so of native HD programming since that content is already available on your standard programming channels in standard def.

Jeez Keith, that really stinks. I have been lurking in this forum for months and this is the first time that I have been compelled to write.

I finally broke down and bought my HD set and subscribed to digital cable HD for the Super Bowl in HD, but I fully expected to see my favorite show, Smallville in, HD. It is advertised as available in HD. But no, not available.

Now you are telling me that even though you have the channels available you are not going to flip the switch. In order to watch Smallville or Enterprise in Charlotte, I will have to buy a High Definition satellite receiver and an antennae. How much HD content is enough?

Do you not realize that FOX-DT has zero HD content?
What is the real story?

Originally posted by TWCCLTMKTNG
savagez3,

I've printed your post and I need to do some research. You raise some very valid questions, but it may take me some time to get back with you on your questions concerning the tier structure etc.

- Keith

Keith,

No problem - thank you for letting me know you are working on it.

Thanks,

Jonathan

Just had the TW guy out to bring a HD box. He brought the Pioneer, but when we checked it, it was faulty. But he didn't have any more Pioneer boxes, and in fact reported that TW was almost out of them. So he installed the SA box, but put me on a list to get a Pio box when more are in stock.

My question: Will I notice a difference on my Sammy 61"

It's probably the old HD box and the HD picture quality is fine as far as I can remember.

Originally posted by lstokes
Just had the TW guy out to bring a HD box. He brought the Pioneer, but when we checked it, it was faulty. But he didn't have any more Pioneer boxes, and in fact reported that TW was almost out of them. So he installed the SA box, but put me on a list to get a Pio box when more are in stock.

My question: Will I notice a difference on my Sammy 61"

let me know how that box works out for you. i am getting my hd box monday, so i'm not sure which one i will be getting.

Originally posted by lstokes
Just had the TW guy out to bring a HD box. He brought the Pioneer, but when we checked it, it was faulty. But he didn't have any more Pioneer boxes, and in fact reported that TW was almost out of them. So he installed the SA box, but put me on a list to get a Pio box when more are in stock.

My question: Will I notice a difference on my Sammy 61"

You will most likely not see a difference. The main difference is the Pioneer has a DVI connection but it won't work with your Sammy. A known problem with the Pioneer box that will be fixed in other markets but not in Charlotte. TW Charlotte refuses to admit there is a problem. Very frustrating. This may or may not be the truth. Everyone I call doesn't even know what the DVI connection is. Also there is no internal communications at all. I realize this a negative response and I don't mean to unload but some of us have well over $10000 invested and can't get support to admit that known problems exists that other markets are being provided fixes for.

rcase-

I'm aware of this whole dvi/sammy fiasco. And I'm aware that it's been licked in most TW service areas. But I'm astonished and disappointed to hear that TW Charlotte is in denial about the whole thing.

Hey Keith & Diana- is there any way you can help us to make some headway on this?

Thanks

Hi There,

I want to clear up something. I'm not affiliated with the Time Warner Cable Division in Charlotte. I am a TWC employee of the South Carolina Division.

I am very willing to help in whatever way I can to explain general TWC policy and procedures in relation to your questions. In addition, I do know a few TWC Charlotte employees, so when I first stepped in to help, I was able to contact the correct person to get an answer. At this point the Charlotte office saw the value of providing you with your own local contact on this thread.

Again, I don't want you to think that I am rejecting the idea of helping when and where I can, but I know nothing about Pioneer equipment, nor do I have any contacts in the Engineering group in Charlotte. As such, whenever you include my name in your request for information, I do feel very bad, because I really am not in a position to assist you in this regard.

I though long and hard over this post. I do hope that I have written it in such a way so that I haven't offended anyone. I really just wanted you to understand why I haven't responded to the specific requests in regard to Pioneer equipment.

Again, no 'passing the buck' was meant by this posting, I promise to continue to help in those ways that I can in the furture.

Diana,

Please do not worry about any hurt feelings. We should use Keith as he is in Charlotte. We appreciate your thoughts and your email was worded perfectly. I've been in marketing and sales all my life and you have done just fine. Always remember you can never please every one all the time. And some people can't be helped.

Take care,
Hugh

I am getting no clear answer from TW on this problem I am having. Maybe someone in here can clear this problem up. I just got HD with the SA box about a month ago.Two issues I am having. One, when I press the guide to see what's on the INHD, (for example last night it said there was an NBA game on at 8:00) I made plans to watch this game, just to sit and wait to find out that college hockey came on at 8:00. I checked the channel guide to make sure that what I saw was NBA at 8:00, and it was. So what's the deal with this? Is this a known issue? That is just one example, it happens all the time, and everytime I call TW to get some answers, they have no clue why. So now I have set up an appointment to have a "technician" come out and look at my box. The other problem I am having is a lag in sound, the mouth is moving before the words actually come out. Of course TW had no solution for this either. I am very frusrtated with TW(TO SAY THE LEAST!). I payed $2,000 for a Sony HD Television, and another $40 to TW, and have a "technician" setup the HD box box, which might I add takes no technical skills at all to hook up, but TW says they have to have someone come out and do it. I am paying for these INHD channels, and I am not getting what is advertised as far as the shows that it says will be on. I hope someone from TW see's this thread and have an answer, or at least acknowledge that there is a problem and they are working on it. Because the customer support center certainly does not have a clue on how to help me.

I don't know what guide you are using but the NBA does not come on INHD. I would suggest you try using Titantv.com for a guide. It's free and shows what is on in HD after you enter the cable channels and your zip code.

The voice/audio is frequently out of sync. This is not a TWC problem but a network problem. I get the channels both OTA and via Cable and there is no difference. The sync problem was much worse a couple of years ago and has gotten better but it is still a problem.

The answer is IN HD 1 & IN HD 2 are not yet launched in Summerville due to bandwidth constraints. We have just begun an upgrade of the Summerville system. Upon completion of the upgrade in your area, you will receive these channels. If you will PM me your home telephone number I will make sure that (1) you do not have the service code for the HD Tier on your account - in Columbia and Florence-Myrtle Beach, where we have been able to launch these services, they are currently free, so even if you have had the code put on your account, you will not have received any charges for them to date (2) check to see what sort of installation fees appear on your account. TWC DOES NOT charge for installation of Digital Converters of any type (SD or HD), so if you received a charge I need to see why and issue credits accordingly.

So, problem one is a problem is with the guide data, IN HD programming should not appear on the IPG in Summerville. I will take the steps to correct this tomorrow.

The lip-sync is something I don't have an answer for, but I will touch base with the Tech Ops Manager in Summerville and have him look into your account and what is going on with it. Which HD converter model do you have? 3100, 3250 or 8000HD?

I am using the channel guide on my remote. It's TW channel guide. And yes NBA is on INHD, so is NHL hockey according to INHD previews for next week. If this is not true, INHD is false advertising.

DianaTWCSC, I live in Matthews, NC. It is just outside of Charlotte. Thanks for the quick responses, now this is what I call customer support!

Originally posted by DianaTWCSC
The answer is IN HD 1 & IN HD 2 are not yet launched in Summerville due to bandwidth constraints. We have just begun an upgrade of the Summerville system. Upon completion of the upgrade in your area, you will receive these channels. If you will PM me your home telephone number I will make sure that (1) you do not have the service code for the HD Tier on your account - in Columbia and Florence-Myrtle Beach, where we have been able to launch these services, they are currently free, so even if you have had the code put on your account, you will not have received any charges for them to date (2) check to see what sort of installation fees appear on your account. TWC DOES NOT charge for installation of Digital Converters of any type (SD or HD), so if you received a charge I need to see why and issue credits accordingly.

So, problem one is a problem is with the guide data, IN HD programming should not appear on the IPG in Summerville. I will take the steps to correct this tomorrow.

The lip-sync is something I don't have an answer for, but I will touch base with the Tech Ops Manager in Summerville and have him look into your account and what is going on with it. Which HD converter model do you have? 3100, 3250 or 8000HD?


What I bozo am I - I thought this was the Charleston thread! My entry is correct for Summerville, SC - if anyone cares, but have nothing to do with Charlotte!

I'm so sorry.

You must be confusing INHD with HDnet as INHD does not have NBA, NHL, etc. HDnet does have these programs. Your INHD channels are 290 and 291 and HDnet is 292 and 293. This applies to the Charlotte area.

Yes, I guess your right about that. Those are the channels I am talking about. Sorry:o .But the issue is still the same, they are not showing what is on the TW channel guide.

I don't know what the deal is but when TW Charlotte shows an NBA game on channel 141 NBA TV they usually show the same game in High Definition on one of the 2 INHD stations. A game is on right now on channel 290. New Orleans vs Milwaukee. It's the same feed as NBA TV channel 141 except it is in high definition. They don't have many games & I think the next one is on 2/17. It's not listed on the INHD schedule on there web site?

Originally posted by e137811
I don't know what the deal is but when TW Charlotte shows an NBA game on channel 141 NBA TV they usually show the same game in High Definition on one of the 2 INHD stations. A game is on right now on channel 290. New Orleans vs Milwaukee. It's the same feed as NBA TV channel 141 except it is in high definition. They don't have many games & I think the next one is on 2/17. It's not listed on the INHD schedule on there web site? I see these from time to time. They do have NBA games but there doesn't seem to be any ryhme or reason as to when they will play what. Looks great though!

Time Warner in Raleigh has a schedule posted at
http://www.twcnc.com/digital_cable/NBA_hd_sched.htm
Of course I don't know if this has anything to do with TW Charlotte's schedule for NBA HD games.
Also TW Texas has a press release at
http://www.timewarneraustin.com/news/press_releases1_62.asp
It says TW will be carrying 33 NBA HDTV games this season on INHD.
I would assume we would get these games on TW Charlotte

Yep, there showing the NBA game right now. LOL, as soon as I start complaining, it starts working right. Go figure. I just hope that it stays consistent from here on out. There is also suppose to be some NHL hockey games on next week too. I sure hope they show em.

The NHL High Definition games are on HDNET.
The schedule is at
http://www.hd.net/nhlinhd.html

The picture on channel 190 right now is not in HD. These are not presented by INHD and I don't know where the feed comes from.

It sure is HD & It's an agreement Time Warner made with NBA-TV to show NBA Games in HD on the two INJD channels carried on TW. The feed is coming from NBA-TV HD & not from INHD.

Thank you e137811. I can't wait to see the Flyers/Devils game Tuesday.

Originally posted by e137811
It sure is HD & It's an agreement Time Warner made with NBA-TV to show NBA Games in HD on the two INJD channels carried on TW. The feed is coming from NBA-TV HD & not from INHD.

I know you are right but the picture I've got is not HD by a long shot. Don't know why as INHD always is and so is HDnet. But this picture I've got is horrible compared to HD. It looked like SD and each time I went back to check it out it looked the same. Very strange. And I'm aware of the agreement between TWC and Fox was involved as well. TWC sure hasn't advertised it anywhere and that is very poor.

That's strange that the picture you got for this NBA game on TW Charlotte 290 is so poor. The picture I got for the actual game is among the best I have gotten. Rates right up there with the CBS College football games that were HDTV. But you are sure right about TW Charlotte keeping this a secret. TW Raleigh has a schedule right on there web site.

Us to : http://www.twcsc.com/hdtv_NBA.htm

Originally posted by kevinivey
Us to : http://www.twcsc.com/hdtv_NBA.htm

Keith,

Why can't Charlotte post something like this on your site? We really need it as you never tell us when this programming is going to be available.

Hugh

I don't know if this thread is just for TWC issues or not but here goes.....

Did anyone else watching last night's Grammys OTA lose the HD feed at about 11:00pm ? Could WBTV have "set the timer" to go off at 11:00 and cut over to SD ?

Yes it happend to us also.

Most likely yes.

WBTV does that all the time and it drives me crazy. I should also add that WSOC also does it as well and frequently it will go off two or three minutes before 11 so their clocks don't work either.

I was afraid that was going to happen. I had waited the whole night to see Outkast sing "Hey Ya," only to have to watch it in expanded SD mode. Which after 3 hours of brilliant HD and 5.1 DD sound, was quite anticlimactic.

But the rest of the telecast was amazing. One thing, though: Did anyone get a little pixelization during the "information heavy" scenes, like when strobe lights were going off? I didn't know if that was an MPEG decoding issue on the transmission end and everyone gets it, or if it's inherent to software/hardware on 1080i CRT televisions (which I have).

Charles

Charles- I'm glad you mentioned the strobes. I noticed significant pixilation when the strobes were hitting the camera lens. I assume this had to do with unusually quick transitions from darker scenes to totally white. But that pixilation was very short.

I'm watching a Sammy DLP.

Does anyone know what package I have to get from TWC Charlotte to get HD from them? Looking at their pricing and reading between the lines, it looks like I need "basic cable" and "cable service" and "navigator+" and "digital variety tier" just to get the HD channels that are available OTA. This seems crazy to have to pay $62.45 just to get the OTA HD channels, especially when several of the channels (ABC and WB) are not actually broadcasting the HD versions.

By comparison, it would appear I can get HD HBO with 'Basic Cable" and "Navigator+" and "HBO" for $32.04.

Originally posted by savagez3
Does anyone know what package I have to get from TWC Charlotte to get HD from them? Looking at their pricing and reading between the lines, it looks like I need "basic cable" and "cable service" and "navigator+" and "digital variety tier" just to get the HD channels that are available OTA. This seems crazy to have to pay $62.45 just to get the OTA HD channels, especially when several of the channels (ABC and WB) are not actually broadcasting the HD versions.

By comparison, it would appear I can get HD HBO with 'Basic Cable" and "Navigator+" and "HBO" for $32.04.

I'm not 100% sure, but I believe that you can get the basic HD (CBS, ABC, NBC, Fox) channels for "free" as long as you subscribe to Basic + Navigator+ ($9.38+7.61 = 16.99), and you should? be able to add HBO for $11.95 = $28.94/month.

If you want to have the digital channels, it's cheaper to subscribe to a package - $59.00/month for the Digital variety package which includes the box and everything... If you want HBO with the digital channels and other cable channels, it would be $68.00/month for the Digital Value Package.

Well, looking more closely I seem to find two contradictory statements on the TWC site. Their HDTV page says


We continue to offer the HD basic lineup at no additional charge, which includes high definition programming from ABC, NBC, CBS, FOX, PBS, UNCTV, HBO*, Showtime*, Discovery HD Theater and select Fox Sports regional sports.
*Subscription to corresponding Digital Channel Required


This is from http://www.twcarolina.com/services/cable_services/digitalcable.asp which implies no additional charge!

However, looking at the channel line up, the 'digital variety tier' has the following channels listed


UNC-TV HD *
WBTV-HD *
WCCB-HD*
WCNC-HD *
WTVI-HD *
WSOC-HD *


This is from http://www.twcarolina.com/services/cable_services/tier_variety.asp

Confused? You should be...

At the present moment if you get their digital box you get all the HD channels free except the two INHDs and the two HDnets. These four channels cost $6.50. Naturally you have to buy HBO as always. But if you are getting HBO it doesn't cost more to get HBO in HD.

Any word on when we might see ESPN-HD from Time Warner?