Shop At Home goes dark June 22. WRAY-TV (30TV/42DT) to be sold.

"Scripps is looking at programming alternatives for those stations, which reach about 5 million households, and plans to keep them on the air until they are sold. The stations are in San Francisco, Boston, Cleveland, Raleigh-Durham, N.C. and Bridgeport, Conn."

Do you have a link with that info?

Here's a link to a "sneak preview" of AT&T U-Verse (Project Lightspeed) in San Antonio. It has been in beta testing for a while, but it looks like they're ready to hit the streets.

http://www.sbcforyou.com/uverse/

This bears watching since the Bell South aquisition by AT&T would make this the likely "telco video" solution in much of this area.

Do you have a link with that info?

http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/business/1310AP_Scripps_Shop_At_Home.html

Here's some great reading for anybody interested in what DirecTV's strategic plans for this year are. It's the 104 page powerpoint presentation from their February 2006 investors meeting.

http://www.longhornxp.net/directvnews.pdf

Here's some great reading for anybody interested in what DirecTV's strategic plans for this year are. It's the 104 page powerpoint presentation from their February 2006 investors meeting.

http://www.longhornxp.net/directvnews.pdf

Impressive. TWC's PowerPoint would consist of 1 slide, entitled "Make lots and lots of money and ignore our subscribers".

Impressive. TWC's PowerPoint would consist of 1 slide, entitled "Make lots and lots of money and ignore our subscribers".

I think the point is that ALL successful companies (and TWC is certainly successful) have business plans, strategies, and budgets, and don't make foolish financial decisions to appease a relatively small segment of their customers.

And at the end of the day, a company must always balance pleasing their customers with pleasing their stockholders. I think at this point, I'd personally invest my own money with TWC before either of the sats, and once I did, I'd expect them to make sound business decisions.

They're doing just fine balancing the needs of both concerns.

I think the point is that ALL successful companies (and TWC is certainly successful) have business plans, strategies, and budgets, and don't make foolish financial decisions to appease a relatively small segment of their customers.

And at the end of the day, a company must always balance pleasing their customers with pleasing their stockholders. I think at this point, I'd personally invest my own money with TWC before either of the sats, and once I did, I'd expect them to make sound business decisions.

They're doing just fine balancing the needs of both concerns.

I'm not a shareholder, I am a TV (preferably HDTV) watcher. And I want my provider to make decisions to keep me as a customer. TWC didn't do it in my case.
You justify TWC by prophetic visions of the future, the rest of us just want to watch TV tonight.

Impressive. TWC's PowerPoint would consist of 1 slide, entitled "Make lots and lots of money and ignore our subscribers".

Being a current DirecTV subscriber and a former TWC one (and soon to be one again), I feel fairly confident that the 121 slide presentation says the exact same thing. I have come to believe that in the TV arena, "competition" means picking the least objectionable of crappy options.

If it weren't for a few cable shows (Daily Show, Colbert Report, Battlestar Galactica, and a few others), I would just do OTA HD. If I could get the non-OTA shows legally at decent quality (the current iTunes options don't count as quality on my TV) and get the rest OTA, I might just do that.

I'm not a shareholder, I am a TV (preferably HDTV) watcher. And I want my provider to make decisions to keep me as a customer. TWC didn't do it in my case.
You justify TWC by prophetic visions of the future, the rest of us just want to watch TV tonight.

Quite frankly, I wasn't even attempting to stick up for TWC. I was just trying to make a more general comment that businesses have to make decisions that satisfy multiple agendas, which often are not consistent. Sometiimes you lose a few customers, but you have to evaluate the net result.

I thought also that I was actually trying to state something positive about DirecTV in posting the link, as well as the customer satisfaction ratings a few posts back.

Quite frankly, I wasn't even attempting to stick up for TWC . .

I thought also that I was actually trying to state something positive about DirecTV . .
You're so misunderstood. :)

You're so misunderstood. :)

The cats like me, sometimes...... :( :( :(

Being a current DirecTV subscriber and a former TWC one (and soon to be one again)

Begs the question, why are you going back to Time Warner ???

Begs the question, why are you going back to Time Warner ???

It's a confluence of lots of little things. Despite my dish being almost perfectly aimed with signal strengths in the high 90's, I have more than a few channels that just pause for second about every 3 or 4 minutes. And the rain fade issue is real. I can predict a heavy storm is coming because our satellite dies about 5 minutes before the heavy rain starts.

Then there's my HD-TiVo (the reason I switched to DirecTV). It's painfully slow and has taken to rebooting randomly. DirecTV's common solution for all TiVo problems is to tell you to clear and delete everything (basically reformat the unit). Given the number of show I have, that's not an option. And this is my second HD-TiVo. If I get this one replaced I'll have to sign a two year commitment. Given the hardware they provide seems to only last 8 months to a year, a two year commitment isn't reasonable to me. Nevermind the fact that DirecTV is going to force me at some point to replace my TiVo with one of their internal HD DVRs (which is now 6 months late in shipping).

See, all customer unfriendly actions...

So, I'm back to TWC after we catch up with all the stuff on the TiVo. I'll get the TWC DVR and try it. When the TiVo Series 3 comes out I'll decide if I want to get it and a couple of CableCards so I can have a dual tuner TiVo that does digital cable and OTA HD.

As I said, the decision seems to be about the least objectionable of two crappy options. ;)

As I said, the decision seems to be about the least objectionable of two crappy options. ;)

Man. are we Americans spoiled. Look in the rear-view mirror 10 years. You had a cell phone the size of a brick, dial-up internet service, a VHS tape machine, a TV the size of a refrigerator with 57 channels of linear analog TV.

Bottom line is DirecTV, Dish, AT&T, Verizon, Comcast, Time Warner, et al are spending billions on us to get our business and make us happy, and all we can do is throw stones. No wonder the rest of the world hates us. We are the biggest whiners on the planet. Myself included.

Bottom line is DirecTV, Dish, AT&T, Verizon, Comcast, Time Warner, et al are spending billions on us to get our business and make us happy, and all we can do is throw stones. No wonder the rest of the world hates us. We are the biggest whiners on the planet. Myself included.
Yeah, me too. But whining and throwing stones is what gets 'em to spend more billions to improve. We're a tough crowd!

Quite frankly, I wasn't even attempting to stick up for TWC. I was just trying to make a more general comment that businesses have to make decisions that satisfy multiple agendas, which often are not consistent. Sometiimes you lose a few customers, but you have to evaluate the net result.

I thought also that I was actually trying to state something positive about DirecTV in posting the link, as well as the customer satisfaction ratings a few posts back.

If I misinterpreted your post, I apologize. Every time you post you praise TWC and bash any other option, I must have been looking for that. ;)

My opinion on DirecTv is this, I hope they kick @ss, so everyone will have to pick up their game. But I feel that PowerPoint presentation could be found at any company, the proof is in the Quality, Quantity, and Value. Maybe VOOM (as a Provider) was ahead of their time, maybe DirecTv will hit the HDTV wave with perfect timing. But I will say again TWC will not compete on "features" and "content" until they absolutely have to.

My DISH receiver has "caller ID", "16:9 9day guide", "several guide views (HD, All Sub, Favorites, etc.)","multi-room (2 different channels on 2 TVs), "mpeg4", "2 remotes, 1 RF", "OTA tuner (WB-HD)", "can record 3 HD channels at once" and "monthly software updates" to name a few.
DirecTv will have similar features with their new receiver.
TWC will wait until they lose significant market share. :(

Man. are we Americans spoiled. Look in the rear-view mirror 10 years. You had a cell phone the size of a brick, dial-up internet service, a VHS tape machine, a TV the size of a refrigerator with 57 channels of linear analog TV.

Bottom line is DirecTV, Dish, AT&T, Verizon, Comcast, Time Warner, et al are spending billions on us to get our business and make us happy, and all we can do is throw stones. No wonder the rest of the world hates us. We are the biggest whiners on the planet. Myself included.

Look at that, we agree again. :)
I just wish I could decide where they spend the money. :cool:

Yeah, me too. But whining and throwing stones is what gets 'em to spend more billions to improve. We're a tough crowd!

That, and the EVIL EVIL profit motive !!! Damn capitalists !!!

That, and the EVIL EVIL profit motive !!! Damn capitalists !!!
What are you, the Second Coming of Marx? :D

If I misinterpreted your post, I apologize. Every time you post you praise TWC and bash any other option, I must have been looking for that. ;)

My opinion on DirecTv is this, I hope they kick @ss, so everyone will have to pick up their game. But I feel that PowerPoint presentation could be found at any company, the proof is in the Quality, Quantity, and Value. Maybe VOOM (as a Provider) was ahead of their time, maybe DirecTv will hit the HDTV wave with perfect timing. But I will say again TWC will not compete on "features" and "content" until they absolutely have to.

My DISH receiver has "caller ID", "16:9 9day guide", "several guide views (HD, All Sub, Favorites, etc.)","multi-room (2 different channels on 2 TVs), "mpeg4", "2 remotes, 1 RF", "OTA tuner (WB-HD)", "can record 3 HD channels at once" and "monthly software updates" to name a few.
DirecTv will have similar features with their new receiver.
TWC will wait until they lose significant market share. :(

I could probably effectively argue the benefits of either side of the coin, cable or satellite. Since cable gets the most bashing, I've decided to give a little balance for sticking up for them.

Cable vs satellite, both have advantages and disadvantages, and one fit's one consumer's needs better than the other and vice versa.

Time Warner is quite frankly very much on par technologically and programming wise with the other big MSO's Comcast, Cox, Charter, etc. They do no better or no worse than the pack.

These are at the end of the day silly arguments. Who makes a better vehicle, Ford or Chevy, you'll get passionate debate on that question. Some will say they're both crap. In reality neither is as bad as the bashers would have you believe.

Can anyone tell me what any of this talk in the last few pages has to do with "Local HDTV info and Reception"?

Pepar, If I remember correctly, your not even from Raleigh, you live in NY correct? Not saying your not welcome or anything like that. I just feel that this thread has turned into a gossip thread and its way off topic.

What are you, the Second Coming of Marx? :D

Actually, the free marketplace is working fine. MOST of us have three video providers to choose from. There is no monopoly, it's a truely competative market, and if one doesn't have access to all three providers, it's because of where HE chose to live.

...
Time Warner is quite frankly very much on par technologically and programming wise with the other big MSO's Comcast, Cox, Charter, etc. They do no better or no worse than the pack.
...

TWC is Cable and Cable is TWC since that is the only choice here. My point is if they had the "content" and "features" of SAT, it would be a no brainer.

So why don't they ?
The answer: They don't have to, so they don't. :mad:

Can anyone tell me what any of this talk in the last few pages has to do with "Local HDTV info and Reception"?

Pepar, If I remember correctly, your not even from Raleigh, you live in NY correct? Not saying your not welcome or anything like that. I just feel that this thread has turned into a gossip thread and its way off topic.

If you have a topic you would like to discuss, bring it up, I'm sure you will get plenty of responses. If you need information on a particular subject, try using the search function. :)

Actually, the free marketplace is working fine. MOST of us have three video providers to choose from. There is no monopoly, it's a truely competative market, and if one doesn't have access to all three providers, it's because of where HE chose to live.

So if your only choice is TWC, you can always move.
When I think we can have a Sane debate, you say something something completely .... Whatever.
------
"Never argue with an idiot. They drag you down to their level and beat you with experience." - Dilbert

If nothing else this forum is active. Which boads well for someone that does want to discuss a particular Local HDTV issue. The thread never drifts too many steps off the Local HDTV path. How we receive our Local HD is completely relevant, although I agree when defending a provider or bashing the other we are off the path.

My apologies... But don't be like my wife and say "No I don't want to go there", to every suggestion I have.

I am going to climb in the passenger seat and see if we go anywhere. :)

Can anyone tell me what any of this talk in the last few pages has to do with "Local HDTV info and Reception"?

Pepar, If I remember correctly, your not even from Raleigh, you live in NY correct? Not saying your not welcome or anything like that. I just feel that this thread has turned into a gossip thread and its way off topic.
Well, it's Olde York (PA), but you're right, I'm not from Raleigh. I popped in a couple of months ago when I heard that y'all got a Passport rev that mentioned SATA in the DIAG. My interest was in following the adventures of those attaching drives. While here, I met some interesting folks. I've even crossed swords with a few. :)

I'm just a visitor who's going to let you folks sort out what rules/protocols you want on your thread. :cool:

If you have a topic you would like to discuss, bring it up, I'm sure you will get plenty of responses. If you need information on a particular subject, try using the search function. :)
can i get HDTV in raleigh? also what does HDTV mean? :P

can i get HDTV in raleigh? also what does HDTV mean? :P
I think that was already covered; did you try the search function? ;)

Does anyone here subscribe to Basic+HBO on TWC?

I tried to subscribe to Basic+HBO recently, but every CSR that I talked to said that I could not get it now, even though I got it once before (2 months ago), and even though all cable operators are legally required to offer Basic+HBO.

Anyway, I just ended up getting "Nuestra Tele con HBO" (http://www.timewarnercable.com/nc/programming/nuestratele/nuestrateleenglish.html?menu=DigitalCable) instead, which costs about the same ($35/month).

So if your only choice is TWC, you can always move.
When I think we can have a Sane debate, you say something something completely .... Whatever.
------
"Never argue with an idiot. They drag you down to their level and beat you with experience." - Dilbert

Well, you know my point. If I choose to live in a small rural town, I'm not gonna get the same quality of services as in a big city. If I choose to live in an apartment that doesn't facilitate me having a dish, well that's my choice, not TWC's. That's all I'm saying. But the vast majority, 92% I think the number is, have access to at least one or both of the satellite providers. THAT by FCC definition is a "competative marketplace".

can i get HDTV in raleigh? also what does HDTV mean? :P

You can only get HDTV from Time Warner Cable. Nowhere else. If you hate them, too bad, because they ARE the ONLY source. What does HDTV mean? HIGHER DOLLAR TV from Time Warner Cable. But:

"They don't care, they don't have too, they're the cable company."

JEEZ !!!

Does anyone here subscribe to Basic+HBO on TWC?

I tried to subscribe to Basic+HBO recently, but every CSR that I talked to said that I could not get it now, even though I got it once before (2 months ago), and even though all cable operators are legally required to offer Basic+HBO.

Anyway, I just ended up getting "Nuestra Tele con HBO" (http://www.timewarnercable.com/nc/programming/nuestratele/nuestrateleenglish.html?menu=DigitalCable) instead, which costs about the same ($35/month).

Somebody's confused. You DO have to have a digital box or a cable card to get HBO. Is that the question ???

I'm just a visitor who's going to let you folks sort out what rules/protocols you want on your thread. :cool:

We've decided to officially bar you from this thread since A) you're a yankee B) you're intellegent and have a sense of humor and C) you like cats.

Ooops !!! I just barred myself.

Maybe we should both retire. Naaaa !!! :D

I am going to climb in the passenger seat and see if we go anywhere. :)

Are we there yet ?

CAUTION: ON TOPIC ALERT !!!!

Did anyone else notice that WNCN has replaced the "crackles" at network-to-local transitions with seven seconds of no audio at all ???

(Pepar, you're excused. I assume you don't watch WNCN, being an "outsider" and all.)

Are we there yet ?

Not yet. Where were we going again?

Not yet. Where were we going again?

Crazy perhaps? Its a nice place.... Sanity is overrated.

Not yet. Where were we going again?
Wherever the "Local HDTV Info and Reception > Raleigh, NC - HDTV" purist want to take us. My feeling, is nowhere. :(

Wherever the "Local HDTV Info and Reception > Raleigh, NC - HDTV" purist want to take us. My feeling, is nowhere. :(

The Cunard Line's slogan was at one time "Getting There Is Half The Fun". Perhaps that applies here. ;) ;) ;)

Somebody's confused. You DO have to have a digital box or a cable card to get HBO. Is that the question ???
I know that. So, no, that's not the question.

Basically, the CSR's would not let me get...
14.95 Basic service
7.95 Digital box with remote
11.95 HBO (or any other premium)
-------
34.85 total

I'm just trying to find out if anyone here has this. That's the question.

Anyway, I ended up getting the "Nuestra Tele con HBO" package, which is...
14.95 Basic service
7.95 Digital box with remote
10.00 HBO
2.05 Nuestra Tele channels (and music channels)
-------
34.95 total (which is merely 10 cents more)

By the way, it is illegal for TWC to deny Basic+HBO and to charge different rates for HBO (11.95 versus 10.00), according to the FCC (http://www.fcc.gov/cgb/consumerfacts/cablechannels.html).

Somebody's confused. You DO have to have a digital box or a cable card to get HBO. Is that the question ???


My apartment complex offers basic + HBO via TWC as part of their rent. No box needed that I'm aware of. Granted that only gets you HBO, and not the 10 other HBO channels like HBO2, HBO sig etc... My bill is now all my extras (HD, HD DVR, HD Tier, Roadrunner) minus basic and HBO. Went from 127 to 65 bucks. Sure I'm technically paying for the rest in my rent, but when my rent is 890 on an apartment that goes for 1250 now, I still look at is as a freebee ;)

"Once upon a time", prior to the advent of digital cable service, HBO was available on an analog cable system
as just another analog channel (TWC-San Diego still provides HBO on analog CH21)....

Check to see if HBO comes in via direct connect of the cable coax to the analog tuner in your TV (or VCR).
For those customers who only want Family Friendly channels, an RF filter can be added to block the HBO analog channel.

"Once upon a time", prior to the advent of digital cable service, HBO was available on an analog cable system
as just another analog channel (TWC-San Diego still provides HBO on analog CH21).....
Brings back memories of the 300-ohm twinlead in the tin can.

I know that. So, no, that's not the question.

Basically, the CSR's would not let me get...
14.95 Basic service
7.95 Digital box with remote
11.95 HBO (or any other premium)
-------
34.85 total

I'm just trying to find out if anyone here has this. That's the question.

Anyway, I ended up getting the "Nuestra Tele con HBO" package, which is...
14.95 Basic service
7.95 Digital box with remote
10.00 HBO
2.05 Nuestra Tele channels (and music channels)
-------
34.95 total (which is merely 10 cents more)

By the way, it is illegal for TWC to deny Basic+HBO and to charge different rates for HBO (11.95 versus 10.00), according to the FCC (http://www.fcc.gov/cgb/consumerfacts/cablechannels.html).

I guess the deal is that you are trying to "bypass" standard basic. The basic $14.95 is a lifeline service of local off-airs and community access channels. They are requiring you to "buy through" standard basic to get to HBO, just like they require you to "buy through" standard basic to get to digital cable.

It's just they way they have chosen to structure their packaging. I'm not defending it, but it is their choice, there is no "law" on how premium channels are priced or sold that I'm aware of. God help us if there is.

UPDATE: YOU APPEAR TO BE CORRECT !!! APOLOGIES !!! Print the article and take it to a customer service center or talk to a supervisor on the phone.

"Once upon a time", prior to the advent of digital cable service, HBO was available on an analog cable system
as just another analog channel (TWC-San Diego still provides HBO on analog CH21)....

Check to see if HBO comes in via direct connect of the cable coax to the analog tuner in your TV (or VCR).
For those customers who only want Family Friendly channels, an RF filter can be added to block the HBO analog channel.

There is no analog HBO on TWC - Raleigh, gotta have a digital box.

My apartment complex offers basic + HBO via TWC as part of their rent. No box needed that I'm aware of. Granted that only gets you HBO, and not the 10 other HBO channels like HBO2, HBO sig etc... My bill is now all my extras (HD, HD DVR, HD Tier, Roadrunner) minus basic and HBO. Went from 127 to 65 bucks. Sure I'm technically paying for the rest in my rent, but when my rent is 890 on an apartment that goes for 1250 now, I still look at is as a freebee ;)

They are receiving HBO at your complex, taking the analog feed out of the back of a digital box, stripping out some channel and then reinserting a remodualted analog HBO.

UPDATE: YOU APPEAR TO BE CORRECT !!! APOLOGIES !!! Print the article and take it to a customer service center or talk to a supervisor on the phone.
I spoke to a couple of supervisors on the phone. They still refused to offer Basic+HBO, even after I told them about the law. One of them suggested that I take a printout to a local TWC office.

Another possibility is to get NT+HBO first, then try to cancel the NT portion later, so that Basic+HBO is what remains. That trick worked for me once.

Anyway, it was easy to get NT+HBO, so I will probably stick with that for now.

I spoke to a couple of supervisors on the phone. They still refused to offer Basic+HBO, even after I told them about the law. One of them suggested that I take a printout to a local TWC office.

Another possibility is to get NT+HBO first, then try to cancel the NT portion later, so that Basic+HBO is what remains. That trick worked for me once.

Anyway, it was easy to get NT+HBO, so I will probably stick with that for now.

Go to this link:

http://www.timewarnercable.com/nc/customer/asktwc.html

Under the section "What if I get a wrong answer or no answer at all." click the "contact us" link, explain your problem, and attach the above link.

I've had good success at getting actual answers rather than form letter responses the couple of times I've used it. Good luck and let all of us know what you find out.

I know that. So, no, that's not the question.

Basically, the CSR's would not let me get...
14.95 Basic service
7.95 Digital box with remote
11.95 HBO (or any other premium)
-------
34.85 total

I'm just trying to find out if anyone here has this. That's the question.

Anyway, I ended up getting the "Nuestra Tele con HBO" package, which is...
14.95 Basic service
7.95 Digital box with remote
10.00 HBO
2.05 Nuestra Tele channels (and music channels)
-------
34.95 total (which is merely 10 cents more)

By the way, it is illegal for TWC to deny Basic+HBO and to charge different rates for HBO (11.95 versus 10.00), according to the FCC (http://www.fcc.gov/cgb/consumerfacts/cablechannels.html).

Great information. So, that begs the question...wouldn't you be able to get Basic + HD-DVR + HD Stations (HD-Tier) the same way? If not, what am I missing?

Great information. So, that begs the question...wouldn't you be able to get Basic + HD-DVR + HD Stations (HD-Tier) the same way? If not, what am I missing?

The way I read the rules is that a single channel a la carte, or multiplexes of a channel are covered, but programming tiers are not. If you find out otherwise, let me know. I'd be perfectly happy with HD channels only if that were allowed.

OOOPPS !!!!

Here's the "gotcha"

"The tier buy-through prohibition does not apply if the cable operator is subject to “effective competition” as that term is defined by law. In addition, a cable operator may request a waiver of the tier buy-through prohibition from the FCC."

I believe that TWC would certainly fall under the "effective competition" loophole. I'll do some more research.

Are we on topic yet ???

Somewhere buried in here is the defintion of "effective competition":

http://www.access.gpo.gov/nara/cfr/waisidx_01/47cfr76_01.html

UPDATE: 76.905

I believe that TWC would certainly fall under the "effective competition" loophole. I'll do some more research.
I'd feel better if they fell deeper under the effective competition, or the effective competition was more effective.

I'd feel better if they fell deeper under the effective competition, or the effective competition was more effective.

I agree with you 100% (I think) :confused: :confused: :confused:

Last night's storm kicked up some pretty good tropo. I watched part of the 11:00 News from WRC-DT Washington DC last night. 2 Richmonds and 4 Norfolks were solid for an hour or so.

Great information. So, that begs the question...wouldn't you be able to get Basic + HD-DVR + HD Stations (HD-Tier) the same way? If not, what am I missing?
TWC does not offer that option, and they are not legally required to offer it.

I think that Comcast in Boston offers it, but that's for a different thread.

NBC17ENG,

If you don't check the Greensboro thread, you might want to. Seems they're suffering the Neilson equipment blues as well. Comments from the NBC and FOX engineers atest to similar issues as WNCN.

NBC17ENG,

If you don't check the Greensboro thread, you might want to. Seems they're suffering the Neilson equipment blues as well. Comments from the NBC and FOX engineers atest to similar issues as WNCN.
Ya, there are so many problem with the local NBC that its hard to count. NBC17ENG, I know you work hard and I do thank you for that. With that said, out of all the local stations NBC is by far the worst when it comes to "Technical Issues".

I for one would like to know what the big issue is. Is it a funding issue? Can you not get the equipment that you need to make things right? Are there enough techs there to do the job?

Im sorry to be so down on the local NBC but it is just so annoying to turn the station on and have to "put up" with yet one more problem. If its not white sparkles its bad sound. If its not bad sound its a black out on the picture every 2 minutes, and the problems go on and on..

Ya, there are so many problem with the local NBC that its hard to count. NBC17ENG, I know you work hard and I do thank you for that. With that said, out of all the local stations NBC is by far the worst when it comes to "Technical Issues".

I for one would like to know what the big issue is. Is it a funding issue? Can you not get the equipment that you need to make things right? Are there enough techs there to do the job?

Im sorry to be so down on the local NBC but it is just so annoying to turn the station on and have to "put up" with yet one more problem. If its not white sparkles its bad sound. If its not bad sound its a black out on the picture every 2 minutes, and the problems go on and on..

For one thing NBC is in the process of dumping several of it's O&O's, including WNCN to Media General. I'm sure they're not anxious to spend a lot of money in the meantime.

That said, I agree, WNCN has had more than it's fair share of technical shortcomings.

Found this during my morning read of HDBeat (.com)

Well, this is just a rumor right, but it looks like it is going to happen. Dish Network is adding Home & Garden HD, National Geographic HD, NFL HD and Starz HD to their high definition lineup in early June.

Mike

Dish Network is adding Home & Garden-HD, National Geographic-HD, NFL-HD and Starz-HD to their high definition lineup in the next week or two.
They are showing up on the transponders now during testing.

This makes me happy. :)

Dish Network is adding Home & Garden-HD, National Geographic-HD, NFL-HD and Starz-HD to their high definition lineup in the next week or two.
They are showing up on the transponders now during testing.

This makes me happy. :)

Can't find any annoucements anywhere. Hope it happens, but it's not unusual for channels to be "hidden" on a video platform in anticipation of eventual carriage. It doesn't always mean availablility is immenant.

TWC has WLFL-SD on channel 223 in their add/delete options, but the general public can't get it.

Maybe Charlie Ergin just wants to get these HD channels at his house. Who knows. We'll see. Again, hope it happens. Come one, come all.

Can't find any annoucements anywhere. Hope it happens, but it's not unusual for channels to be "hidden" on a video platform in anticipation of eventual carriage. It doesn't always mean availablility is immenant.

TWC has WLFL-SD on channel 223 in their add/delete options, but the general public can't get it.

Maybe Charlie Ergin just wants to get these HD channels at his house. Who knows. We'll see. Again, hope it happens. Come one, come all.

An insider on one of the forums I am monitoring confirms the first week of june.
Another user posted the guide with the channels listed.
It's a done deal. But maybe a meteor will hit the SATs before then. Then TWC would be a viable option for HD. :rolleyes:

Posg have you seen this ? On first impressions it seems to be a bit odd, especially the remote. :eek:

http://www.hdbeat.com/2006/05/23/atandts-new-hi-def-homezone-box/

Posg have you seen this ? On first impressions it seems to be a bit odd, especially the remote. :eek:

http://www.hdbeat.com/2006/05/23/atandts-new-hi-def-homezone-box/

I've not seen the box, but I'm a little familiar with the "Homezone" strategy. In areas where, for what ever reason, AT&T cannot impliment it's "U-verse" "fiber to the node" (with twisted pair copper to the house, YUCK) solution, Homezone is the alternative technology.

Actually, both are a cobbled mess of technologies sewn together kind of like a Frankensten monster.

It's the telco's attempt to be the "one-wire" triple play solution to effectively compete with cable.

Gotta love the keyboard. Is it "qwerty" or "abcde" ???

I've not seen the box, but I'm a little familiar with the "Homezone" strategy. In areas where, for what ever reason, AT&T cannot impliment it's "U-verse" "fiber to the node" (with twisted pair copper to the house, YUCK) solution, Homezone is the alternative technology.

Actually, both are a cobbled mess of technologies sewn together kind of like a Frankensten monster.

It's the telco's attempt to be the "one-wire" triple play solution to effectively compete with cable.

Gotta love the keyboard. Is it "qwerty" or "abcde" ???

My thoughts exactly on the Frankenstein reference. I love new tech and new ways of getting there, but the widgets that try to be a jack of all trades are masters of none 9 out of 10 times. :(

okay, I have read 8 or 9 pages back.

What is the latest on TWC and new HD channels like National Geographic and HGTV? ESPN2, etc?

Is it still "when it happens"?

okay, I have read 8 or 9 pages back.

What is the latest on TWC and new HD channels like National Geographic and HGTV? ESPN2, etc?

Is it still "when it happens"?

All quiet on the TWC front. It's anybody's guess when we'll see TWC launch the next batch of HD channels. They can't afford to fall too far behind. Trust me when I say that they watch every move their competitors take.

But as I've mentioned before, it's to the programmers benefit to get the satellite deals done first. That way they are "holding the cards" when they negociate with the cable guys.

okay, I have read 8 or 9 pages back.

What is the latest on TWC and new HD channels like National Geographic and HGTV? ESPN2, etc?

Is it still "when it happens"?

When one provider makes a big move like DISH has done everyone gets in a tizzy.
There is so much DirecTv bashing going on around the forums since DISH is adding these channels. But the good thing is DirecTv has to respond with HD additions of their own since their customers can and will have a dish in their yard.
TWC on the other hand is a monopoly in this area that will get it's revenue whether a few jump ship or not.
So expect more of the same DISH to lead in HD content with DirecTv playing catchup and TWC ignoring this small segment of it's customers for some time to come.

When one provider makes a big move like DISH has done everyone gets in a tizzy.
There is so much DirecTv bashing going on around the forums since DISH is adding these channels. But the good thing is DirecTv has to respond with HD additions of their own since their customers can and will have a dish in their yard.
TWC on the other hand is a monopoly in this area that will get it's revenue whether a few jump ship or not.
So expect more of the same DISH to lead in HD content with DirecTv playing catchup and TWC ignoring this small segment of it's customers for some time to come.

Unfortunately, I agree. I'd like to stick with TWC, but they make it harder every day. I sent this to Dressler this AM. We'll see if he responds ...
________________

Hi, Mr. Dressler. Rather than believe the message boards, I prefer to get accurate
information from the parties involved, so I'll ask you. Are there any HD (or SD)
additions imminent for TWC? Specifically:

ESPN2HD
National Geographic HD
NFL Network HD

ESPNU
NFL Network

One thing I love about DISH is that each month they have a Live Call-in show with their "Owner\CEO Charlie Ergen" and\Or "Technical Engineers" to answer the tough questions and make announcements about software upgrades and channel additions. You have to admire this way of answering to customers concerns directly.

It is no surprise that TWC's CEO doesn't have the Coconuts to sit in the Hot Seat for an hour answering emails and calls.

One thing I love about DISH is that each month they have a Live Call-in show with their "Owner\CEO Charlie Ergen" and\Or "Technical Engineers" to answer the tough questions and make announcements about software upgrades and channel additions. You have to admire this way of answering to customers concerns directly.

It is no surprise that TWC's CEO doesn't have the Coconuts to sit in the Hot Seat for an hour answering emails and calls.

You're right. I don't expect to hear back from him. I've sent e-mails before, so I'm sure mine now get filtered out. The TWC "suits" don't give a crap about what we want anyway, so they would never take calls (unless they were from sycophant TWC employees).

You're right. I don't expect to hear back from him. I've sent e-mails before, so I'm sure mine now get filtered out. The TWC "suits" don't give a crap about what we want anyway, so they would never take calls (unless they were from sycophant TWC employees).

More ridiculously depressing news ... on a Comcast thread, they are reporting that they will be getting ESPN2HD and NFL Network (SD/HD) on July 1st. I'd like to think that this would put more pressure on TWC to keep up, but I know better.

toadfannc,

WHY haven't you switched providers yet ??? Just curious.....

More ridiculously depressing news ... on a Comcast thread, they are reporting that they will be getting ESPN2HD and NFL Network (SD/HD) on July 1st. I'd like to think that this would put more pressure on TWC to keep up, but I know better.
Yea, it's not like any TWC subscriber is going to switch to Comcast.

toadfannc,

WHY haven't you switched providers yet ??? Just curious.....

What other cable provider?? If satellite isn't an option (like you like in an apartment or condo with no south facing option), then the TWC monopoloy is the only option for extended channels. Until there is land based competition for cable I will continue to consider it a monopoly.

What other cable provider?? If satellite isn't an option (like you like in an apartment or condo with no south facing option), then the TWC monopoloy is the only option for extended channels. Until there is land based competition for cable I will continue to consider it a monopoly.

Once again, under FCC rules, effective competition exists.

I'm just curious why toadfannc sticks with TWC unless he has some "obstruction" preventing him from switching.

toadfannc,

WHY haven't you switched providers yet ??? Just curious.....

I have RoadRunner, so it's pretty convenient. Also, I don't like the thought of having to purchase DVR equip and an OTA antenna. Plus, DirectTV doesn't have local HDs here in Raleigh as yet. When they do (and I understand it's imminent), I may take the plunge (along with a few others, I suspect).

I have RoadRunner, so it's pretty convenient. Also, I don't like the thought of having to purchase DVR equip and an OTA antenna. Plus, DirectTV doesn't have local HDs here in Raleigh as yet. When they do (and I understand it's imminent), I may take the plunge (along with a few others, I suspect).

Why would you leave TWC for DirecTv ? I thought this was about HD channels for you. Although I believe DirecTv will add HD channels faster than TWC, right now DISH is speaking with actions.

Come over to the Dark Side... it's in High Def over here. :p

Here's the Promotion Codes to get the offer I got when I signed up...

# VCD0000763398
Ordering Direct: DIRCDFDHA
Through Retailer: RETCDFDHA

FREE Activation
$100 back with America's Top 120 or higher programming
STARZ Movie Pack FREE for the first 3 months

thanks for the depressing confirmation. My co-worker has DISH now and I am jealous of the choices they have. However, I'm not ready to make the plunge back into sat. The longer TWC delays the easier my choice becomes.



oh and all my questions seem to get answered here. Thanks guys!

Why would you leave TWC for DirecTv ? I thought this was about HD channels for you. Although I believe DirecTv will add HD channels faster than TWC, right now DISH is speaking with actions.

Come over to the Dark Side... it's in High Def over here. :p

Here's the Promotion Codes to get the offer I got when I signed up...

# VCD0000763398
Ordering Direct: DIRCDFDHA
Through Retailer: RETCDFDHA

FREE Activation
$100 back with America's Top 120 or higher programming
STARZ Movie Pack FREE for the first 3 months

Actually, it's all about programming for me. Yes, more HD channels would be nice, but I'm really interested in sports programming. And, DirectTV- with ESPN2HD, ESPNU, NFL Network (SD and HD), as well as the NFL Sunday Ticket ... may be too good to pass up. Right now, though, I can't stomach the purchase of a DVR, the contract commitment, or the OTA antenna for local HD. Who knows- I might change my mind tomorrow.

Why would you leave TWC for DirecTv ?
Perhaps the most important thing is "leave TWC." As it's been discussed, the only way that TWC will improve is for people to drop them. They've got the brinksmanship thing down pat and will only shape up when they start getting actual losses.

Actually, it's all about programming for me. Yes, more HD channels would be nice, but I'm really interested in sports programming. And, DirectTV- with ESPN2HD, ESPNU, NFL Network (SD and HD), as well as the NFL Sunday Ticket ... may be too good to pass up. Right now, though, I can't stomach the purchase of a DVR, the contract commitment, or the OTA antenna for local HD. Who knows- I might change my mind tomorrow.

I miss D*...specifically Sunday ticket. However, after having TWC for a year, the PQ is definitely better on TWC. So, it's really a double edged sword for me. I can't have a dish due to line of sight here in Cary. I'm not sure I'd switch because of PQ.

I really hope TWC adds ESPN2HD soon...

I miss D*...specifically Sunday ticket. However, after having TWC for a year, the PQ is definitely better on TWC. So, it's really a double edged sword for me. I can't have a dish due to line of sight here in Cary. I'm not sure I'd switch because of PQ.

I really hope TWC adds ESPN2HD soon...
A year or so ago when I looked into SAT, I came away with the impression of Dish having inferior equipment and PQ compared to DirecTV. They were more aggressive, however, in adding channels. Don't flame me; that's what I deduced from the SAT forums here.

A year or so ago when I looked into SAT, I came away with the impression of Dish having inferior equipment and PQ compared to DirecTV. They were more aggressive, however, in adding channels. Don't flame me; that's what I deduced from the SAT forums here.

I've looked for web sites that compare bit rate and effective resolution between different providers, and haven't found anything of any real value.

There is a lot of discussion about HD PQ, HD-Lite, HD bit rates, etc. We all pretty much know that HD-Lite is an anamorphic compression of horizontal resolution, reducing it by as much as 25%. However, since vertical resolution is not tampered with, the overall reduction is less.

What is NOT discussed is the abysmally aggressive "grooming" applied to standard definition channels on the satellite services resulting in extremely "soft" and "smeary" results. And it seems to be getting worse as more and more payload is added.

I see cable going in the opposite direction. My picture quality on SD digital channels continues to improve. As compression technology improves, TWC seems to be taking the road of offering improvements in PQ rather than adding additional channels.

That statement is made based on my own subjective judgements. I do have a TWC, DirecTV, and Dish Network feed in my office, so I can compare them side by side on the same LCD TV. I unfortunately only have SD from Dish and DirecTV.

The bottom line is this. The digital simulcast SD channels are consistantly much higher PQ on TWC than the sats, and in my judgement, DirecTV has fewer highly over compressed channels than Dish.

Given that I continue to watch a significant amount of SD, the choice at home for me was simple. HD on cable is perhaps a little better, but the SD is much better.

I've looked for web sites that compare bit rate and effective resolution between different providers, and haven't found anything of any real value.

There is a lot of discussion about HD PQ, HD-Lite, HD bit rates, etc. We all pretty much know that HD-Lite is an anamorphic compression of horizontal resolution, reducing it by as much as 25%. However, since vertical resolution is not tampered with, the overall reduction is less.

What is NOT discussed is the abysmally aggressive "grooming" applied to standard definition channels on the satellite services resulting in extremely "soft" and "smeary" results. And it seems to be getting worse as more and more payload is added.

I see cable going in the opposite direction. My picture quality on SD digital channels continues to improve. As compression technology improves, TWC seems to be taking the road of offering improvements in PQ rather than adding additional channels.

That statement is made based on my own subjective judgements. I do have a TWC, DirecTV, and Dish Network feed in my office, so I can compare them side by side on the same LCD TV. I unfortunately only have SD from Dish and DirecTV.

The bottom line is this. The digital simulcast SD channels are consistantly much higher PQ on TWC than the sats, and in my judgement, DirecTV has fewer highly over compressed channels than Dish.

Given that I continue to watch a significant amount of SD, the choice at home for me was simple. HD on cable is perhaps a little better, but the SD is much better.

I went with cable and never looked back. I do, however, glance sideways every now and then. And root for SAT as a way of keeping cable on it's game. Video services by TEL could be the Next Big Thing. We'll see.

Perhaps the most important thing is "leave TWC." As it's been discussed, the only way that TWC will improve is for people to drop them. They've got the brinksmanship thing down pat and will only shape up when they start getting actual losses.

I've done my part. Come on Pepar, I've seen your Theater setup; it needs more HD. :)

I've done my part. Come on Pepar, I've seen your Theater setup; it needs more HD. :)
It's a double-edged sword; hi-def material brings out the best in a large display, especially a front projector, but makes it more and more difficult to watch DVD, which for now and the immediate future is the bulk of my viewing. I do use an IMX lens to completely remove the pixel structure, but a smooth picture is not the same as a smooth, highly detailed picture.

I have the newest receiver from DISH, the vip622 and the picture quality is great.
I've seen the talk of HD-Lite myself and my eyes can't tell the difference. I have a 62" DLP that should show flaws in the picture before smaller sets would. And the SD on my set is dramatically better with DISH than TWC, and that is a fact.
I will say this though the 2 stations that are equal for seeing the blackheads on peoples faces is HDNET and WRAL-OTA.

I will say this though the 2 stations that are equal for seeing the blackheads on peoples faces is HDNET and WRAL-OTA.
Hmmm, a new PQ standard!?

I went with cable and never looked back. I do, however, glance sideways every now and then. And root for SAT as a way of keeping cable on it's game. Video services by TEL could be the Next Big Thing. We'll see.

I'm starting to have doubts about the telco strategies, either too expensive to deploy on a widescale basis (Verizon FIOS), or too bandwidth restricted in the "last mile" (AT&T U-verse) to really work in a multiset HD household, so I'm with you, let satellite competition keep everyone moving forward.

I'm starting to have doubts about the telco strategies, either too expensive to deploy on a widescale basis (Verizon FIOS), or too bandwidth restricted in the "last mile" (AT&T U-verse) to really work in a multiset HD household, so I'm with you, let satellite competition keep everyone moving forward.
TEL can always string fiber to the home and blow the bandwidth issue out of the water, but it's a big investment. So, naturally it's an outlay that they'll postpone as long as possible. Additionally, as no real "killer app" has emerged that makes fibering the last mile a no-brainer, they'll try to finesse things until it does.

Best analogy comparing technolgies is that FIOS brings the interstate highway into your garage, while U-verse has interstate highway to about a mile from your house and then a dirt road the rest of the way. Hybrid fiber-coax is the logical economic middleground of interstate highway and surface streets.

dslate69,

You might get a kick out of this. Especially the last paragraph. Not being able to provide locals would have effectively nailed the coffin shut. I've always felt that Ergen is reckless and is far to quick to put his subscribers interests in jeopardy. Time to watch "Charlie Chat" and hear the whining.



EchoStar Must Cut Off Distant Nets

By Ted Hearn Multichannel.com 5/24/2006

EchoStar Communications Corp. has been ordered by a federal court to cut off probably hundreds of thousands of customers around the country who have signed up for packages of ABC, NBC, CBS and Fox programming that originates on local stations in New York and Los Angeles.

The court, in a ruling Tuesday by a three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit, found that EchoStar's Dish Network illegally provided distant network signals to at least 630,000 ineligible homes, violating hundreds of TV stations' copyright protections under the Satellite Home Viewer Act of 1988.

EchoStar will likely have to cut distant network service to "hundreds of thousands [of subscribers]," said Jimmy Schaeffler, senior financial and consulting analyst at The Carmel Group. "Whether or not it's millions, that's something probably only someone at EchoStar could judge."

The court slapped EchoStar with a nationwide injunction. In more pain for the direct-broadcast satellite provider, the ruling appeared to also require the company to terminate distant network service to customers who are legally receiving the programming.

In a 44-page ruling, the 11th Circuit panel found that EchoStar engaged in a "pattern and practice" of violating the SHVA. It ordered a lower court to issue a nationwide permanent injunction barring EchoStar from selling distant network signals.

The ruling's wording appeared to compel EchoStar to terminate not only illegal distant network subscribers, but also legal ones -- customers who can't pick up their local stations with an antenna.

"We have found no indication that EchoStar was ever interested in complying with the [SHVA]," the court said in a unanimous opinion. "EchoStar has disregarded the limitations of its statutory license and sought to avoid its obligations under the [SHVA] at every turn."

"It's going to cost EchoStar money -- a lot of money," Schaeffler predicted.

The outcome could have been far worse for EchoStar. At times in the litigation, broadcasters asked the courts to punish the DBS operator by banning it from providing even local TV signals to subscribers in dozens of local markets. The court's ruling did not address a local-signal ban as a remedy.

dslate69,

You might get a kick out of this. Especially the last paragraph. Not being able to provide locals would have effectively nailed the coffin shut. I've always felt that Ergen is reckless and is far to quick to put his subscribers interests in jeopardy. Time to watch "Charlie Chat" and hear the whining.

EchoStar Must Cut Off Distant Nets

By Ted Hearn Multichannel.com 5/24/2006
You might have a predilection to tout cable and bash SAT, but they make your "job" sooooo e_a_s_y! :)

posg or others,

Can I take my TWC SA 8300 DVR to a friend's house with the same or different level of TWC service and connect it there and use it, or are the stb IP addresses somehow associated with each subscriber's physical location? My hypothesis is that it will start to boot and shut down, but I don't want to try it and screw up my box somehow.

You might get a kick out of this. Especially the last paragraph. Not being able to provide locals would have effectively nailed the coffin shut. I've always felt that Ergen is reckless and is far to quick to put his subscribers interests in jeopardy. Time to watch "Charlie Chat" and hear the whining.



EchoStar Must Cut Off Distant Nets

Didn't we have the conversation about how stupid it is to have a law that keeps a customer from subscribing to any city they want to ? And now you call providing customers with no way to get local channels with such channels "reckless". :confused:

You believe there is no viable competitor to Cable and that TWC can do no wrong, we get it. When we all read your post we take it with a grain of salt like Ted Turner wrote it.

This court ruling if it doesn't get over ruled immediately will only effect those that live in areas not covered by local OTA. Meaning if your home was in between mapped coverage areas DISH interpreted the law as they could provide you with Local channels from their national feed since you didn't belong to any local coverage area.

Sounds like to me DISH was leaning on the side of it's customers, TWC should try that some time.

But yea I will check out the Charlie Chat between watching ESPN2-HD, National Geographic-HD, NFL-HD, HGTV-HD , STARZ-HD or any of the other 20 something HD channels I have. :cool:

EchoStar said it’s disappointed with a recent U.S. Court of Appeals ruling concerning distant networks, a move that could shut down the offering delivered by its DISH Network satellite TV service.
For SkyREPORT’s story this morning on the distant nets matter see: http://www.skyreport.com/view.cfm?ReleaseID=1926.

“While consumers are free to choose to read the New York Times, San Francisco Chronicle or any other newspaper regardless of where in the United States they live, broadcasters successfully orchestrated passage of special interest legislation which prohibits consumers from watching network channels originating in other markets, except in limited circumstances.” the company said in a statement.

EchoStar and broadcasters disagreed about implementation of the distant network law. EchoStar said it believed the law should assure consumers had access to network programming. “We believe that we acted within the scope of the law and in the best interest of consumers,” the company said.

Broadcasters felt the law should be interpreted to severely limit the ability of consumers to receive network channels other than those in their home market, even if the off-air picture quality was not good.

EchoStar also pointed out that it reached settlement agreements with hundreds of 800 ABC, NBC, CBS and FOX stations including all ABC, NBC and CBS owned and operated stations. The company did not reach settlement agreements with FOX Network or station groups owning the remaining stations.

Unfortunately, I agree. I'd like to stick with TWC, but they make it harder every day. I sent this to Dressler this AM. We'll see if he responds ...
________________

Hi, Mr. Dressler. Rather than believe the message boards, I prefer to get accurate
information from the parties involved, so I'll ask you. Are there any HD (or SD)
additions imminent for TWC? Specifically:

ESPN2HD
National Geographic HD
NFL Network HD

ESPNU
NFL Network

Here's Dressler's latest response. Same ol, same ol.
______________

espn2 hd and nat geo hd are both on the near horizon,though no specific date can be given. the others are more problematic at the moment.

Didn't we have the conversation about how stupid it is to have a law that keeps a customer from subscribing to any city they want to ? And now you call providing customers with no way to get local channels with such channels "reckless". :confused:
Wouldn't you call any business model based on ignoring a U.S. law "reckless?"

Didn't we have the conversation about how stupid it is to have a law that keeps a customer from subscribing to any city they want to ? And now you call providing customers with no way to get local channels with such channels "reckless". :confused:

You believe there is no viable competitor to Cable and that TWC can do no wrong, we get it. When we all read your post we take it with a grain of salt like Ted Turner wrote it.

This court ruling if it doesn't get over ruled immediately will only effect those that live in areas not covered by local OTA. Meaning if your home was in between mapped coverage areas DISH interpreted the law as they could provide you with Local channels from their national feed since you didn't belong to any local coverage area.

Sounds like to me DISH was leaning on the side of it's customers, TWC should try that some time.

But yea I will check out the Charlie Chat between watching ESPN2-HD, National Geographic-HD, NFL-HD, HGTV-HD , STARZ-HD or any of the other 20 something HD channels I have. :cool:

I agree the law is stupid, but it IS the law, and they have clearly broken it. As indicated below, they are clearly giving DNS to anybody that wants it, even if local into local is available. They claim the have LIL service available in over 90% of the US TV households. How could the following quote be true ???

"The court says that in "the best case scenario" EchoStar is providing illegal service to 26.5% of its subscribers receiving ABC distant network programming, 26.9% for CBS, 20.2% for Fox, and 28.1% for NBC."

Let's face it, Dish was using DNS as a subscriber retention tool. "We'll give you something cable and DirecTV won't." They just didn't tell you why they wouldn't.

Signed,

Former Dish Network Out Of Market Signal Cheater. ;) ;) ;)

posg or others,

Can I take my TWC SA 8300 DVR to a friend's house with the same or different level of TWC service and connect it there and use it, or are the stb IP addresses somehow associated with each subscriber's physical location? My hypothesis is that it will start to boot and shut down, but I don't want to try it and screw up my box somehow.

My guess is that you can move it around within a node boundry, but not across a node boundry, which means boxes are assigned to nodes. The way the VOD aggregates and routes streams is on a node by node basis. Just an educated guess.

I know, what's a node ??? It's the coaxial area served by one dedicated fiber link from the headend which allows discrete program aggregation.

Wouldn't you call any business model based on ignoring a U.S. law "reckless?"

As always, you're support is appreciated. ;) ;) ;)

Wouldn't you call any business model based on ignoring a U.S. law "reckless?"

Blatantly ignoring the law is "reckless", interpreting the law in favor of your subscribers is not.

OJ is innocent, so say the courts.

As always, you're support is appreciated. ;) ;) ;)
It's a testament to the wackiness of the two protagonists here that I am the moderating voice. :D

Blatantly ignoring the law is "reckless", interpreting the law in favor of your subscribers is not.

OJ is innocent, so say the courts.
Obviously, I'm being drug down here . . . :)

My guess is that you can move it around within a node boundry, but not across a node boundry, which means boxes are assigned to nodes. The way the VOD aggregates and routes streams is on a node by node basis. Just an educated guess.

I know, what's a node ??? It's the coaxial area served by one dedicated fiber link from the headend which allows discrete program aggregation.

Why do you make things so complicated ?? Just tell him it won't fry his box, it won't cancel his service, it won't format his hard drive and it is safe for him to try it. It will either work or it won't.

Let's recap, shall we.
Posg I know you like to live in the future, so this is actually as of June 1st.
DISH DirecTv TWC

HGTV-HD X
NatGeo-HD X
NFL-HD X X
ESPN2-HD X X
ESPN-HD X X X
DiscoveryHD X X X
UniversalHD X X X
TNT-HD X X X
HDNet X X X
HDNetMovies X X X
INHD X
INHD2 X
( VOOM )
Rush-HD X
Rave-HD X
HD-News X
Ultra-HD X
Equator-HD X
Gallery-HD X
Monsters-HD X
Animania-HD X
FilmFest-HD X
KungFu-HD X
WldSport-HD X
WldCinma-HD X
Family-HD X
Treasure-HD X
GamePlay-HD X

Let's recap, shall we.
Posg I know you like to live in the future, so this is actually as of June 1st.
DISH DirecTv TWC

HGTV-HD X
NatGeo-HD X
NFL-HD X X
ESPN2-HD X X
ESPN-HD X X X
DiscoveryHD X X X
UniversalHD X X X
TNT-HD X X X
HDNet X X X
HDNetMovies X X X
INHD X
INHD2 X
( VOOM )
Rush-HD X
Rave-HD X
HD-News X
Ultra-HD X
Equator-HD X
Gallery-HD X
Monsters-HD X
Animania-HD X
FilmFest-HD X
KungFu-HD X
WldSport-HD X
WldCinma-HD X
Family-HD X
Treasure-HD X
GamePlay-HD X

You're right; whomever's in charge at TWC should fall on his sword for not giving subscribers Monsters-HD, Animania-HD & KungFu-HD. The others "sound" important as well, so he should pull himself off his sword and fall on it again.

You're right; whomever's in charge at TWC should fall on his sword for not giving subscribers Monsters-HD, Animania-HD & KungFu-HD. The others "sound" important as well, so he should pull himself off his sword and fall on it again.

Ignore the facts all you want, make your smart @ss comments about VOOM. Some of the channels are actually pretty good ("Freddie Kruger" in HD, National HD News), but lets say they are all crap. They are just icing on top of all the others. HGTV-HD crap too ? NatGeo-HD crap ? ESPN-2-HD, NFL-HD, STARZ-HD all crap ?? Sure they are, enjoy Night Rider. :rolleyes:

Folks, this is the Raleigh thread. All comments are welcomed of course but I ask you to ask yourselves when posting: Is it on topic to this thread?

I don't think the issues being discussed (SAT vs TWC) are specific to Raleigh. Its likely you are depriving other readers on this board of the benefits from your postings and insight. I suggest you share them on a new thread, but elsewhere :)

Thanks

Folks, this is the Raleigh thread. All comments are welcomed of course but I ask you to ask yourselves when posting: Is it on topic to this thread?

I don't think the issues being discussed (SAT vs TWC) are specific to Raleigh. Its likely you are depriving other readers on this board of the benefits from your postings and insight. I suggest you share them on a new thread, but elsewhere :)

Thanks

Last week when this was stated, the forum dried up and dropped to page 4 of the "AVS Forum > HDTV > Local HDTV Info and Reception" thread (behind the Greensboro thread :o )
When you are at work do you only talk about work ? When you are at Church do they ban any topic not religious ? If I find a great buy on a QAM( Not ATSC ) tuner, can I post it ?

If you got something on topic to post, no one is stopping you. You will even have people read it; that is as long as the Forum is active.

Get your moisturizer out the "Dry Season" is comming.

Folks, this is the Raleigh thread. All comments are welcomed of course but I ask you to ask yourselves when posting: Is it on topic to this thread?

I don't think the issues being discussed (SAT vs TWC) are specific to Raleigh. Its likely you are depriving other readers on this board of the benefits from your postings and insight. I suggest you share them on a new thread, but elsewhere :)

Thanks

You may think we stray "off topic", but, which provider fits which viewer's needs best is probably the most ON TOPIC subject there is to discuss.

What specific issues are NOT being discussed here that should be, and why is our discussion interfering with those issues being discussed.

I try really hard to bring up ON TOPIC local issues, but nobody bites. (I did promise not to discuss Sinclair anymore.)

The only topics that seem to be on any of these locals strings are questions which are not location specific. Set top box questions, antenna questions, surround sound questions, etc.

I Could Be Wrong But It Looks Like The Canes/sabres Game Tonite Will Only Be Available On inhd, Which Is, By The Way, A Cable Exclusive.

I Could Be Wrong But It Looks Like The Canes/sabres Game Tonite Will Only Be Available On inhd, Which Is, By The Way, A Cable Exclusive.


INHD has had all the Canes/Sabres HD games from OLN since the start of the last round. They also have the Ducks/Oilers games as well. They've been on OLN SD since the last round as well.

Folks, this is the Raleigh thread. All comments are welcomed of course but I ask you to ask yourselves when posting: Is it on topic to this thread?

I don't think the issues being discussed (SAT vs TWC) are specific to Raleigh. Its likely you are depriving other readers on this board of the benefits from your postings and insight. I suggest you share them on a new thread, but elsewhere :)

Thanks
At this point, I recommend you report this thread to a/the moderator for a ruling.

INHD has had all the Canes/Sabres HD games from OLN since the start of the last round. They also have the Ducks/Oilers games as well. They've been on OLN SD since the last round as well.

It's in HD on DISH. It's on NHL-HD channel 9463 included with subscription of OLN. :cool:

I Could Be Wrong But It Looks Like The Canes/sabres Game Tonite Will Only Be Available On inhd, Which Is, By The Way, A Cable Exclusive.

You sure are wrong alot. If you aren't keeping score I am. :p

I think you also made the comment that DirecTv would get NatGeo-HD and not let DISH have it since they are part owner or something silly like that. ;)

You sure are wrong alot. If you aren't keeping score I am. :p

I think you also made the comment that DirecTv would get NatGeo-HD and not let DISH have it since they are part owner or something silly like that. ;)

If you haven't noticed, I am extremely cautious about qualifying statements as "only an opinion". "my best guess", "according to unconfirmed sources", "I could be wrong", etc.

And when I am wrong, I'm the first to admit it, even BEFORE I'm challenged.

P.S. You don't need to keep score. My wife is doing a pretty thorough job already. ;) ;) ;) ;)

If you haven't noticed, I am extremely cautious about qualifying statements as "only an opinion". "my best guess", "according to unconfirmed sources", "I could be wrong", etc.

And when I am wrong, I'm the first to admit it, even BEFORE I'm challenged.

P.S. You don't need to keep score. My wife is doing a pretty thorough job already. ;) ;) ;) ;)

Just having some fun. :)
My wife is winning at my house too.

Just having some fun. :)
My wife is winning at my house too.

"FUN" is not "ON TOPIC" ;)

INHD has had all the Canes/Sabres HD games from OLN since the start of the last round. They also have the Ducks/Oilers games as well. They've been on OLN SD since the last round as well.

The interesting part of this was that the game was clear to air, so I could watch even though I don't subscribe to the HD Package. Hope it continues.

I am interested in TWC HD versus ???? discussions.

Since there is no Raleigh TWC thread, this is an apporiate area.

my$.02 :rolleyes:

I am interested in TWC HD versus ???? discussions.

Since there is no Raleigh TWC thread, this is an apporiate area.

my$.02 :rolleyes:

"????" is clearly the other choice. ;)

If anybody's interested ...

Here's the latest e-mail I sent to Dressler- you'll see his response below. I know, I know ... ESPN2HD is not 100% HD-- whatever. All I know is that we are missing MLB games, will be missing college football and hoops-- because TWC and ABC/Disney are fighting.
________________

Hi, Mr. Dressler. Rather than believe the message boards, I prefer to get accurate
information from the parties involved, so I'll ask you. Are there any HD (or SD)
additions imminent for TWC? Specifically:

ESPN2HD
National Geographic HD
NFL Network HD

ESPNU
NFL Network


Here's Dressler's latest response. Same ol, same ol.
______________

espn2 hd and nat geo hd are both on the near horizon,though no specific date can be given. the others are more problematic at the moment.

If anybody's interested ...

Here's the latest e-mail I sent to Dressler- you'll see his response below. I know, I know ... ESPN2HD is not 100% HD-- whatever. All I know is that we are missing MLB games, will be missing college football and hoops-- because TWC and ABC/Disney are fighting.
________________

Hi, Mr. Dressler. Rather than believe the message boards, I prefer to get accurate
information from the parties involved, so I'll ask you. Are there any HD (or SD)
additions imminent for TWC? Specifically:

ESPN2HD
National Geographic HD
NFL Network HD

ESPNU
NFL Network


Here's Dressler's latest response. Same ol, same ol.
______________

espn2 hd and nat geo hd are both on the near horizon,though no specific date can be given. the others are more problematic at the moment.
You posted this yesterday at 4:12PM.

You posted this yesterday at 4:12PM.

It's the new recycling policy. Rather than rewording the same old babble, just copy and paste.

If anybody's interested ...

Here's the latest e-mail I sent to Dressler- you'll see his response below. I know, I know ... ESPN2HD is not 100% HD-- whatever. All I know is that we are missing MLB games, will be missing college football and hoops-- because TWC and ABC/Disney are fighting.
________________

Hi, Mr. Dressler. Rather than believe the message boards, I prefer to get accurate
information from the parties involved, so I'll ask you. Are there any HD (or SD)
additions imminent for TWC? Specifically:

ESPN2HD
National Geographic HD
NFL Network HD

ESPNU
NFL Network


Here's Dressler's latest response. Same ol, same ol.
______________

espn2 hd and nat geo hd are both on the near horizon,though no specific date can be given. the others are more problematic at the moment.
What exactly do you want from him? You act as if it is in his power alone to say, "TWC shall now have ESPN2HD"! It dosent work like that my friend. There are many aspects involved that he simply has nothing to do with.

Its fine to email him to get an update but an email every week is borderline harassment. Im sure you would get a much better response from him if you left a bigger gap in between emails. At least he takes the time to respond at all. If it was me, I would have put your email in the spam filter long ago..

To add, im actually happy that Nat Geo HD is in talks with Time Warner. Last I heard, TWC didnt know they had an HD channel. haha.

What exactly do you want from him? You act as if it is in his power alone to say, "TWC shall now have ESPN2HD"! It dosent work like that my friend. There are many aspects involved that he simply has nothing to do with.

Its fine to email him to get an update but an email every week is borderline harassment. Im sure you would get a much better response from him if you left a bigger gap in between emails. At least he takes the time to respond at all. If it was me, I would have put your email in the spam filter long ago..

Dude- first of all, I don't email the guy every week. I think I've emailed him twice this year. And, you're wrong about who has the power at TWC to sign carriage agreements. He has told me that he, himself (and a bunch of lawyers to draw up the paperwork), is responsible for direct negotiations with content providers and that he (alone) is the person who signs the contracts. So, to ask anyone else in TWC (ex. your local TWC button pusher) on possible programming additons is worthless.

And, where do you get the condescending attitude in your post? I was simply putting an update out there for those who were interested. Lighten up.

Dude- first of all, I don't email the guy every week. I think I've emailed him twice this year. And, you're wrong about who has the power at TWC to sign carriage agreements. He has told me that he, himself (and a bunch of lawyers to draw up the paperwork), is responsible for direct negotiations with content providers and that he (alone) is the person who signs the contracts. So, to ask anyone else in TWC (ex. your local TWC button pusher) on possible programming additons is worthless.

And, where do you get the condescending attitude in your post? I was simply putting an update out there for those who were interested. Lighten up.
If you think its simply a matter of signing a piece of paper and talking to some lawers then you are mistaken. It is not that simple, not by a long shot.

As for the condescending attitude, I did not mean to come off that way and for that I apolagize. I must have been mistaken about you emailing him every week, I know there is someone on the board that emails the guy like every saturday and so on. lol.

What does your last couple of post have to do with "Local HDTV info and Reception" ?

Maybe the fact that we are talking about programming that will be added or not added to our local TWC lineup. :)

Dude- first of all, I don't email the guy every week. I think I've emailed him twice this year. And, you're wrong about who has the power at TWC to sign carriage agreements. He has told me that he, himself (and a bunch of lawyers to draw up the paperwork), is responsible for direct negotiations with content providers and that he (alone) is the person who signs the contracts. So, to ask anyone else in TWC (ex. your local TWC button pusher) on possible programming additons is worthless.

And, where do you get the condescending attitude in your post? I was simply putting an update out there for those who were interested. Lighten up.

You'll get better luck with Fred if you send him a nice bottle of wine rather than another e-mail.

Fred's waiting for the 7 Series BMW from ESPN to be parked in his driveway before he signs the deal. At least that's the way things used to work in the industry. Doubt they've changed that much.

P.S. Thanks again HBO Asia for that great weekend in Bali !!!

At least he takes the time to respond at all.
Nah, he has it on a macro.

Nah, he has it on a macro.

Pepar,

Out of curiosity, who's your cable provider, what HD channels do they offer, and how bad do they suck ???

More problems @ E*

Posted on Wed, May. 10,
Dish Network customers at risk for electrical fires
BY LESLIE BROOKS SUZUKAMO
ST. PAUL PIONEER PRESS
ST. PAUL - The Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry is notifying 6,800 Dish Network customers from Rochester to the Twin Cities to St. Cloud that they could be at risk of an electrical fire during thunderstorms because of an improperly installed satellite TV dish.

No fires or injuries have been reported. However, the department randomly audited 100 Dish Network dishes installed in 2004 and 2005 by Galaxy 1 Marketing of Bettendorf, Iowa, and found 80 that failed to meet state electrical code requirements. Most failures involved improper grounding.

Dish Network's parent company, EchoStar Communications Corp. of Englewood, Colo., and Galaxy 1 Marketing did not return requests for comment Tuesday

Even more problems @ E*

TiVo Wants Injunction Against Dish Network DVR Sales
Thursday, May 25, 2006


NEW YORK — The ongoing patent dispute between TiVo Inc. (TIVO) and EchoStar Communications Corp. (DISH) flared up again this week as TiVo filed an injunction seeking to ban EchoStar from making or selling its digital video recorder product.

The two companies also issued dueling statements Wednesday in reaction to a preliminary rejection by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office of some of TiVo's patent claims.

EchoStar said the patent office decision, made Tuesday, will bolster its case against TiVo, while TiVo portrayed it as insignificant.

In court papers filed Monday, TiVo sought to disable the DVR functionality in all but 192,702 of EchoStar's DVRs already placed with customers. The company also sought to recall products already with distributors and retailers and to stop the production of infringing products

If I were a Dish customer, I don't know which would piss me off the most. Losing my network channels, losing my DVR, or the fire that destroyed my house. And they made such a big deal about the Lifetime fruckuss !!!

At least they had Monsters before the fire.

Pepar,

Out of curiosity, who's your cable provider, what HD channels do they offer, and how bad do they suck ???
On May 1 the Comcast purchase of Suscom closed, so my provider is Comcast.

Hi-def channels are: ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, PBS, UPN, NFL, Discovery, ESPN, HDNet, HDNet Movies and Universal. Also available in hi-def are HBO, SHO and Cinemax. If one subscribes to a premium movie channel and the HDTV package, then the HD channel is included as well. In addition to the three STBs, we have three analog (non-boxed) TVs.

With one SD 8300 DVR, two 8300HDs, the HDTV package, HBO and Showtime we are at about $100 per month. Before I made the move to hi-def cable and added the DVRs, I revisited Dish and DirecTV pricing and was flabbergasted to find that it would cost about the same, not including the gear I'd need to buy. It had been my impression that SAT could give me the same line-up for considerably less moolah. While I have RG6 homeruns to all TV locations, the thought of a bunch of dishes to serve our TVs was ugly. No locals in HD was a deal breaker, too.

PQ on UPN is dodgy sometimes, but the others are stunning, especially PBS-HD and DiscoveryHD.

More problems @ E*

Posted on Wed, May. 10,
Dish Network customers at risk for electrical fires
That's what I was told on the SAT forums - Dish/Echostar had crappy gear.

On May 1 the Comcast purchase of Suscom closed, so my provider is Comcast.

Hi-def channels are: ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, PBS, UPN, NFL, Discovery, ESPN, HDNet, HDNet Movies and Universal. Also available in hi-def are HBO, SHO and Cinemax. If one subscribes to a premium movie channel and the HDTV package, then the HD channel is included as well. In addition to the three STBs, we have three analog (non-boxed) TVs.

With one SD 8300 DVR, two 8300HDs, the HDTV package, HBO and Showtime we are at about $100 per month. Before I made the move to hi-def cable and added the DVRs, I revisited Dish and DirecTV pricing and was flabbergasted to find that it would cost about the same, not including the gear I'd need to buy. It had been my impression that SAT could give me the same line-up for considerably less moolah. While I have RG6 homeruns to all TV locations, the thought of a bunch of dishes to serve our TVs was ugly. No locals in HD was a deal breaker, too.

PQ on UPN is dodgy sometimes, but the others are stunning, especially PBS-HD and DiscoveryHD.

Yes, the loss leader pricing advertised by satellite quickly goes away when you start comparing apples to apples.

Interesting piece on The Register . . http://www.theregister.com/2006/05/25/us_tv_unbundling_push/

Interesting piece on The Register . . http://www.theregister.com/2006/05/25/us_tv_unbundling_push/

From a technical perspective, a gateway device (STB) would be required at every receive location, as the satellite model currently requires.

The upside is that it would excellerate the abandonment of analog channels yielding more bandwidth for HD linear and VOD offerings.

From a programming perspective, it's a curtain call for many less desirable channels.

A number of unrelated comments have been deleted and/or edited.

Keep on topic, take unrelated discussions off line, or further action will be taken.

...At least they had Monsters before the fire.

I'm not feeling the love for Monsters-HD.
I am a Bruce Campbell fan, and "Evil Dead" was great in HD. I'm recording "Bubba Ho Tep" Saturday. I also watched "Nightmare on Elm Street" the other day. I like the campy ones as you can tell. Granted this isn't my favorite channel but it is one more channel I stop on when surfing for HD.

Now on another VOOM exclusive I saw Bruce Lee kill Chuck Norris in "Way of the Dragon". If you saw Chuck's hair and sunglasses, you couldn't blame Bruce. :)

A number of unrelated comments have been deleted and/or edited.

Keep on topic, take unrelated discussions off line, or further action will be taken.

Maybe someone can tell us what is On-Topic. Can we not mention TWC, DISH or DirecTv anymore since they are all national provider?
Are we limited to Local OTA ?

I for one, really want to know.

Maybe someone can tell us what is On-Topic. Can we not mention TWC, DISH or DirecTv anymore since they are all national provider?
Are we limited to Local OTA ?

I for one, really want to know. I think anything that has to do with "local info and reception". Meaning, you can talk about D*, E*, TWC or OTA if it has to do with it being local. Like if your local stations are being broadcast in HD over D* or E* would be fine.

Off topic would be anything that has nothing to do with Raleigh local programming. Such as, "why cant i get my cable to work here in miami". LOL that would be off topic. :)

p.s. the only thing keeping this topic "on topic" is the fact that I mentioned the word "Raleigh" and "broadcast". :D

I think anything that has to do with "local info and reception". Meaning, you can talk about D*, E*, TWC or OTA if it has to do with it being local. Like if your local stations are being broadcast in HD over D* or E* would be fine.

Off topic would be anything that has nothing to do with Raleigh local programming. Such as, "why cant i get my cable to work here in miami". LOL that would be off topic. :)

p.s. the only thing keeping this topic "on topic" is the fact that I mentioned the word "Raleigh" and "broadcast". :D

Thanks that helps explain things. I was just confused after you reported this to the moderator your off-topic post didn't get deleted.
Thanks again. :)

Thanks that helps explain things. I was just confused after you reported this to the moderator your off-topic post didn't get deleted.
Thanks again. :)
Who reported what to a mod? I reported nothing.

WNCN local HD looks pretty good tonight. Hope the troubles are behind them.

Sorry, HDTV-NUT guilty by the hours you keep. :o
I should have given credit to "iamthewus".

I sure would like to see PBS-HD go 24 hours OTA. :)

WNCN local HD looks pretty good tonight. Hope the troubles are behind them.

Sorry, HDTV-NUT guilty by the hours you keep. :o
I should have given credit to "iamthewus".

I sure would like to see PBS-HD go 24 hours OTA. :)

hahahah

OTA HD looks free and clear here in raleigh tonight. ;)

By the way, it is illegal for TWC to deny Basic+HBO and to charge different rates for HBO (11.95 versus 10.00), according to the FCC (http://www.fcc.gov/cgb/consumerfacts/cablechannels.html).
I spoke to a sales manager at TWC, and she said that they can offer Basic+HBO after all. She also said that they can charge different rates for HBO, but they cannot charge more than the amount on the rate card, which is 11.95 in this case.

If any of you are surprised or dismayed by that moderator interruption, I'm with you! I am in need of a new TV receiver and have just spent several hours reading this forum trying to decide who my source of programming should be, assuming I go HD. I found the light-hearted bickering here very useful and I'm also aware that what is available in Raleigh is not necessarily decided in Raleigh so I'm hardpressed to find something that is off-topic for me.

For 12 years I got most of my programming from a BUD, C-band & Ku. I enjoyed sound and video quality superior to much of what was available OTA. NBC was crystal clear and available in ET, MT or Pacific time so I understood non-linear programming before the term was coined. I got my bad weather warnings from Tenn. so I knew with some certainty how bad it might be. I watched live feeds from LA when their earth shook and Florida when their winds blew. I watched all the HBO and Cinemax channels for what HBO alone costs today. Then the programmers decided C-band was giving too much away and squashed it. I moved to Dish SD and for a year and a half watched soft, fuzzy pictures that disappear when a big thunderstorm goes by. Putting that aside, I was mostly impressed by how much I had to spend for so few real choices in what I could watch.

If I'm going to lay out $3000 for a TV set it had better have a 16:9 picture on it most of the time and I expect the video quality to be commensurate with the price of the set. I will decide which channels I view, not TWC or a satco. Of the 150+ channels on Dish, I probably watch 10 with any regularity. Sports for me is Nascar, Indie car and F1. I do not appreciate having to pay for sports programming that I don't watch, or the religious, cooking etc. filler junk.

I've lashed together a Mythtv setup so I could get an idea of what HDTV was capable of. OTA can be very, very good if you can ignore all the 4:3 commercial distractions. WRAL-HD impressed the heck out of me, but it's hard to believe they've been at it 6 years when you see how much content is still 4:3. Then there are those awful subchannels that the HD channels drag along like fleas on a dog. Well so far the pickings are slim and I still want HBO, CNN, FX and a few more so who will provide it?

I haven't seen any argument that persuades me to choose Direct over Dish, so it seems to boil down to TWC or Dish. They both insist on jamming packages down my throat that I don't want, but if McCain has his way and I can pick my own channels, then Dish has the most to choose from. PQ on Dish is still an open question but what I've seen here encourages me to take a look at least.

Isn't it ironic how the picture size and cost get bigger and bigger while the quality, actual content and real choices get smaller and smaller? How can a company smart enough to own HBO also be dumb enough to hook up with AOL? And BTW, I don't see TEL as a player, ever. They haven't shown themselves capable of creating anything but overpriced, technically retarded kludges in the last 30 years and I see no reason for them to start now. Unless there is a lucky confluence of government support and strikingly advanced technology from Japan or China, they are dead meat.

If any of you are surprised or dismayed by that moderator interruption, I'm with you! I am in need of a new TV receiver and have just spent several hours reading this forum trying to decide who my source of programming should be, assuming I go HD. I found the light-hearted bickering here very useful and I'm also aware that what is available in Raleigh is not necessarily decided in Raleigh so I'm hardpressed to find something that is off-topic for me.

FWIW, the deleted posts had nothing to do with TWC vs. D* vs. E* discussion - most were off-topic political discussion. While the focus of the thread should be local issues, with an effort put forth by the group to insure that the various OTA issues brought up are addressed - discussion of all providers available in Raleigh, even if they are national companies would be on-topic.

I would suggest that when the debates reach the point that they are swamping the thread - if they are not really local in focus - you should move those debates to one of the national forums. It will allow local issues to be more readily addressed here, and the debate will be more engaging in the national forums because of the much greater participation.

Bigchris,

For what you want, my recommendation is TWC for few reasons. There are no long term contracts or up front equipment expense. It is certainly a simpler installation. Most of the SD channels are transcoded off the satellite feeds without additional compression, so they are transparent from the delivery source. The difference is significant. Cable's reliability has vastly improved over the years. Downtime is nearly non-existant. It has to be because they offer phone. There's bundled pricing, VOD, and free service.

It's the "no risk" option. There's no penalty if you decide to switch. That's why I would recommend you try it first.

But then that should come as no surprise to the string regulars.

FWIW, the deleted posts had nothing to do with TWC vs. D* vs. E* discussion - most were off-topic political discussion. While the focus of the thread should be local issues, with an effort put forth by the group to insure that the various OTA issues brought up are addressed - discussion of all providers available in Raleigh, even if they are national companies would be on-topic.

I would suggest that when the debates reach the point that they are swamping the thread - if they are not really local in focus - you should move those debates to one of the national forums. It will allow local issues to be more readily addressed here, and the debate will be more engaging in the national forums because of the much greater participation.

My two cents.

How do you seperate these discussions from the legislation that affects them? A lot of what's discussed here is directly related to the political agendas of various parties and individuals. I understand that blatant political bashing is out of bounds ( :o busted), but we need the latitude to discuss not only the issues but the politics behind them.

The following is posted because it has direct impact on our local market.

Under this legislation, since WTVD and ESPN are both owned by Disney, WTVD would loose it's ABC network exclusivity on TWC IF it refused to allow TWC to offer ESPN or any other Disney channel "a la carte". This give TWC the leverage of importing an out of market ABC affiliate if Disney didn't play ball, so to speak.

Also of significance is this legislation would only affect cable, not satellite. The implications are enormous. Should be interesting to follow.

"Submitted for your approval":





The fight over a la carte
McCain Unveils a la Carte Bill

By Ted Hearn Multichannel.com 5/25/2006

A cable operator that sells programming a la carte could escape local franchising and trim its franchise-fee payments to local governments under a bill unveiled by Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) Thursday.

McCain, who has yet to introduce his long-awaited, incentives-based approach to the a la carte issue, included a provision that is likely to stir trouble with broadcasters.

Under the bill, a broadcaster that refused to permit the a la carte sale of an affiliated cable network would lose its nonduplication rights under Federal Communications Commission rules.

In a real-world example, a cable company could import an ABC affiliate if The Walt Disney Co. refused to allow the cable system to offer ESPN a la carte in a market where Disney owns the ABC station. Disney owns the ABC network, 10 ABC stations and the ESPN sports channel.

"The National Association of Broadcasters does not believe any changes to the FCC's network-nonduplication rules are warranted," NAB spokesman Dennis Wharton said.

In a prepared statement, the National Cable & Telecommunications Association attacked the McCain bill.

Because the bill’s franchising relief would apply to any video provider that uses public rights of way, DirecTV Inc. and EchoStar Communications Corp. are not directly affected.

"It is completely unnecessary for the federal government to disrupt a competitive marketplace and engage in the pricing and packaging of video services,” the NCTA statement said. “The home-video marketplace -- which, the FCC has recognized, is providing consumers with more choice than ever before -- should decide video offerings, not government intervention imposed from Washington, D.C."

Verizon Communications Inc. applauded McCain’s approach.

“For years, Sen. McCain has been a champion for the American consumer, and we welcome his voice to the video-franchise debate. Sen. McCain’s initiative adds to the momentum for passing video-choice legislation this year,” Verizon senior vice president for federal government relations Peter Davidson said.

Today, dozens of cable networks are sold in packages called tiers, which expose cable customers to a wide array of programming at probably the lowest per-channel price obtainable.

A la carte proponents believe programming sold in that manner would cut cable bills and allow parents to exile indecent programming without paying for it. Many in the cable industry -- Cablevision Systems Corp. being a notable exception -- claimed that a la carte would hike cable bills and bankrupt niche channels that can't exist outside of the tiering structure.

McCain, a la carte fan for years, was unable to introduce the bill Thursday, but he is expected to do so soon. He could try to attach it to a major telecommunications bill scheduled for a Senate Commerce Committee vote June 20.

According to a summary of the McCain bill, cable operators that satisfy the a la carte requirement could obtain a national franchise, paying no more than 3.7% of gross video revenue in franchise fees.

The bill also includes restrictions on institutional networks and channel-capacity set-asides for public, educational and governmental channels of programming.

Also according to the bill summary, to become eligible for a national franchise, a cable operator must own a cable channel “offered on the basic tier of a digital-cable system”; must make that affiliated channel available a la carte to its subscribers and not prevent other distributors from selling it a la carte; and must notify the FCC that it will sell a la carte any channel that it was provided on an a la carte basis.

For cable operators that do not own programming, the bill requires them to notify the FCC that that it will sell a la carte any channel that it was provided on an a la carte basis.

FWIW, the deleted posts had nothing to do with TWC vs. D* vs. E* discussion - most were off-topic political discussion. While the focus of the thread should be local issues, with an effort put forth by the group to insure that the various OTA issues brought up are addressed - discussion of all providers available in Raleigh, even if they are national companies would be on-topic.

I would suggest that when the debates reach the point that they are swamping the thread - if they are not really local in focus - you should move those debates to one of the national forums. It will allow local issues to be more readily addressed here, and the debate will be more engaging in the national forums because of the much greater participation.

Agreed, but when post reach swapping barbs they quickly die out on their own.
Anything HDTV or HD Provider should be in bounds since we are Local. And when the debate is passionate it is also meaningful.

The Moderator being called in is just another example of the Minority dictating to the Majority. As Posg would say, "You can always move". Then you could join another thread. :)

Bigchris,

For what you want, my recommendation is TWC for few reasons. There are no long term contracts or up front equipment expense. It is certainly a simpler installation. Most of the SD channels are transcoded off the satellite feeds without additional compression, so they are transparent from the delivery source. The difference is significant. Cable's reliability has vastly improved over the years. Downtime is nearly non-existant. It has to be because they offer phone. There's bundled pricing, VOD, and free service.

It's the "no risk" option. There's no penalty if you decide to switch. That's why I would recommend you try it first.

But then that should come as no surprise to the string regulars.

I agree that TWC is less of a risk and less of a gain. DISH is moving forward full steam ahead and may run off the shoulder of the road from time to time. TWC is still in the parking lot.
Since DISH is implementing Mpeg4 before anyone else their are some post about learning curves when it comes to Locals. Some of their national HD channels are actually mpeg2 in a mpeg4 wrapper while they get more mpeg4 experience under their belt. And the receiver I got is light-years better than the TWC equivalent.

Now here's the advice, if it is purely financial and you don't care if you ever get another HD channel added to the line-up, go with TWC. The HD quality is good.
If you want to invest in your channels like you invest $3000 on the TV, look at DISH (I had a $299 lease fee or buy for $499) But definitely go and look at the quality of DISH instead of listening to biased opinions. I judge SD quality on the Sci-Fi Channel because I watch it ZOOMED for BSG and DISH wins that test. :)

Anything HDTV or HD Provider should be in bounds since we are Local. And when the debate is passionate it is also meaningful.

You're mistaking the local forum as a "Town Hall" of sorts. While we don't want to discourage HD-A/V enthusiasts from coming together with others from your area, this isn't a forum/thread for members in Raleigh to discuss all things HD related. A quick question/answer about a model of TV or the 24 Finale, etc. is harmless, but when it becomes a lengthy conversation, it needs to be moved to the appropriate forum.

The Programming forum is filled with threads regarding D* vs. E*, a la carte and other pending legislation. While those issues are certainly relevant to Raleigh (and every other area), the bulk of the discussion belongs in the Programming forum. Debate can be just as meaningful and passionate when it occurs in the appropriate forum with members from other areas.

Bottom line: The forums are divided by issues/topics - not by people. The Local forum is only divided by market because the local issues are generally market specific.

You're mistaking the local forum as a "Town Hall" of sorts. While we don't want to discourage HD-A/V enthusiasts from coming together with others from your area, this isn't a forum/thread for members in Raleigh to discuss all things HD related. A quick question/answer about a model of TV or the 24 Finale, etc. is harmless, but when it becomes a lengthy conversation, it needs to be moved to the appropriate forum.

The Programming forum is filled with threads regarding D* vs. E*, a la carte and other pending legislation. While those issues are certainly relevant to Raleigh (and every other area), the bulk of the discussion belongs in the Programming forum. Debate can be just as meaningful and passionate when it occurs in the appropriate forum with members from other areas.

Bottom line: The forums are divided by issues/topics - not by people. The Local forum is only divided by market because the local issues are generally market specific.
I acknowledge being (very) guilty of participating in the OT stuff that lead to this and will limit myself to ON-topic posts. I do, however, need a bit more clarification. I posted the link to the McCain a la carte piece on The Register. As that affects the Raleigh local market, was my posting on- or off-topic? If on-topic, posg commented that he was having a hard time connecting McCain, a Republican, with the legislation. On- or off-topic? My reply was "think 2008." As long as I've been subscribed to this thread, that has been the only political posts, short and sweet, they arose from the McCain legislation post.

I feel we're all walking on eggshells here not wanting to run afoul of our hosts rules. Some heated exchanges have been clearly off-topic, but the grey area seems to have opened up like a chasm.

As that affects the Raleigh local market, was my posting on- or off-topic? Affects the Raleigh market and specific TO the Raleigh market are two different things. This section is more for the latter. The whole reason FOR this section was for AVSers to discuss HD reception issues specific to their local areas. As CP said, if it's something that affects everybody, it belongs in the main areas. And if it's political, it belongs nowhere.

Affects the Raleigh market and specific TO the Raleigh market are two different things. This section is more for the latter. The whole reason FOR this section was for AVSers to discuss HD reception issues specific to their local areas. As CP said, if it's something that affects everybody, it belongs in the main areas. And if it's political, it belongs nowhere.

How does one start a thread, or where does one go on the site to find out how to start a thread ?????

off topic here but needs to be said.

i would like to apolagize to anyone that I talked down to or told what not to say in this thread. i hate when people do that to me and i sure didnt mean to do that to any of you guys. you are all good guys that i have learned alot from. i just need to stay away from the boards when im in a bad mood. :)

How does one start a thread, or where does one go on the site to find out how to start a thread ?????

There's a "New Thread" button in the upper left of each forum immediately above the threads listed.

Affects the Raleigh market and specific TO the Raleigh market are two different things. This section is more for the latter. The whole reason FOR this section was for AVSers to discuss HD reception issues specific to their local areas. As CP said, if it's something that affects everybody, it belongs in the main areas. And if it's political, it belongs nowhere.
"More for the latter" or "exclusively for the latter?" Either way, almost nothing on this thread has been on-topic. I rarely have seen discussions on local Raleigh reception. TWC, DBS, macroblocking on a cable channel, etc., etc.

How does one start a thread, or where does one go on the site to find out how to start a thread ?????
Just don't do it on the "Local HDTV and Reception" section.

I rarely have seen discussions on local Raleigh reception.

It's a very good sign for your area if you guys have no local station or cable company issues.

Congrats.

Just don't do it on the "Local HDTV and Reception" section.

Pepar, dslate69, toadfannc, et al,

I think we need to start another thread where WE define the topic broadly enough that it allows us the free exchange of ideas. I'm not sure what it will be, but I'll let you know if I think of one, y'all do the same, and we'll take our rantings "out to the parking lot", so to speak.

You all have a great holiday weekend. I am officially not touching a keyboard until next Tuesday.

posg

There are plenty of forums on the internet to go and just chat.

There are plenty of forums on the internet to go and just chat.

True enough, I like most here thought this was the thread for people that live in Raleigh and surrounding areas to discuss HDTV and ways to receive it. I did not know how narrow certain people would try to define that. TWC here in Raleigh is a national provider. All talk of providers be it DISH, DirecTv, and TWC that provide service to this area should be treated equally. All talk of adding national HD channels such as NG-HD or HGTV-HD to TWC or any provider for this area is now off-topic and should be posted in that providers thread. This is ludicrous.

This has been a very active thread and I think the Moderators should address concerns by its members but to effectively kill this thread when only one minority voice squeals is unsettling. It would make more sense to delete any blatant political, objectionable or offensive post and leave well enough alone. And let the complainer create his own thread and define the topic.

All talk of adding national HD channels such as NG-HD or HGTV-HD to TWC or any provider for this area is now off-topic and should be posted in that providers thread.

Not accurate at all. HD channels offered, soon to be offered, or that you'd like to be offered by TWC in Raleigh are certainly on topic.

2 or 3 members that want to endlessly debate D* vs. E* in general, or a la carte in general, should have that discussion in the existing threads for those topics.

And let the complainer create his own thread and define the topic.

This particular topic is defined. But you're correct, you're free to start another thread in an appropriate forum and define it however you want. We have a forum for just about anything audio/video related.

Not accurate at all. HD channels offered, soon to be offered, or that you'd like to be offered by TWC in Raleigh are certainly on topic.
Affects the Raleigh market and specific TO the Raleigh market are two different things. This section is more for the latter. The whole reason FOR this section was for AVSers to discuss HD reception issues specific to their local areas.
I'm having difficulty in seeing how "HD channels offered, soon to be offered, or that you'd like to be offered by TWC in Raleigh" has anything to do with "Local HDTV Info and Reception . . (in) Raleigh, NC."

I know I should leave this alone, but there's really mixed messages here.

There are plenty of forums on the internet to go and just chat.
you're free to start another thread in an appropriate forum and define it however you want. We have a forum for just about anything audio/video related.

Hey NBC17ENG, any news on when the "crackle" in the right speaker during PrimeTime Shows will be fixed and what is causing it?

Thanks

Bigchris,

For what you want, my recommendation is TWC...
But then that should come as no surprise to the string regulars.
Having just read the previous 15 pages of this forum, it's no surprise to me either. ;)

I know where you're coming from and you've made your points well. I haven't ruled cable out, but there is also a lot to be said for what I'd call "the Avis syndrome" or "we're number two so we try harder". You also do yourself a disservice by calling attention to an isolated instance of a competitor's lightning problems or legal battles. In fact, you may have broken copyright laws with some of your own posts - fair use has its limitations.

I respond better to positive points - like how much of TWC's infrastructure between the head end and my house is underground these days? Am I going to be able to see a visible difference between OTA and cable when watching the locals? Can TWC deliver 1080i to a set that can display it in that resolution? Does TWC's cable box allow control via a USB, serial or firewire port?

No long-term lockin is a positive point and should be presented that way. Once I've made my choice, I'll care about a long-term discount, but right now it's a date not a marriage so I like the try before you buy philosophy. :)

I'm also following with interest what dslate69 and HDTV-NUT have contributed and I find the signal to noise ratio just fine. I'm more concerned about why someone who is apparently a Charlotte resident cares so much about the content of a Raleigh forum.???

I'm having difficulty in seeing how "HD channels offered, soon to be offered, or that you'd like to be offered by TWC in Raleigh" has anything to do with "Local HDTV Info and Reception . . (in) Raleigh, NC."

You aren't sure how TWC Raleigh's HD channels have anything to do with Raleigh HDTV Info? :confused:

I know I should leave this alone, but there's really mixed messages here.

Yes, you should leave it alone, but since you asked - there's no mixed message at all. If you're just looking to chat about random life issues or politics - there are many such forums available. If you want to discuss Audio/Video, there is likely a forum set up for that purpose here at AVS. HDTV Hardware, HDTV Programming, Local Issues in Raleigh, Displays, XM Radio, Gamerooms, etc.

FWIW:

Before people get their panties in a bunch, there wasn't much I saw that would be considered off-topic in this thread. The political comments would be considered off-topic anywhere on AVS, and issues like a la carte should generally be discussed in the national forums since they impact more than the local area. The main issue is to understand that the primary purpose of this thread is to address issues that are encountered by Raleigh DMA residents and to insure that questions get answered.

If we get numerous reported posts that a handful of members are hijacking the thread to simply bicker, it will be addressed. If it turns out that that discussion is better suited in a different forum, we'll bring that to your attention.

I'm also following with interest what dslate69 and HDTV-NUT have contributed and I find the signal to noise ratio just fine. I'm more concerned about why someone who is apparently a Charlotte resident cares so much about the content of a Raleigh forum.???

I have a big heart. I care about all areas.

I've been having pixelation issues for quite some time...but it only seems to really happen badly in the recent hockey games...or maybe that's only when I'm watching. During tonights game (around 8 min left in the 2nd period), it forced me to switch to ch 65 (non HD OLN) and I saw a little pixelation there too....so I don't know if it's my wiring or something network related.

If it's my wiring, I'm stumped. I've had TWC guys out here 2-3 times all to no avail....and I don't know if it's my house wiring, the drop fromt he street (but the drop has been replaced) , or the network or what.

Did anybody else see severe pixelation around this time during this hockey game?

A few details of what I have....
I've got a TWC installed 1x4 amplfier along with a TWC splitter (I have a total of 4 sets (2 HD, two regular), broadband modem....the modem and the amp input hangs off the splitter. It's a pretty long long run from the street to the splitter/amp and then another long run inside the house. On this particular set (a Sony LCD projector) there is a SA 8300. The ch 999 diag says that signal strength is around -12 dBmv....one TWC guy I talked to uses either the FDC or RDC value as a sign if it's too high or too low (why I don't know)...these values are 4 dBmv for the FDC and 37dBmv for the RDC.

I'd call TWC, but I'm tired of dealing with unhelpful CSR's, and idiot repairmen...and I tend to get short with them when they come out. One CSR told me my only alternative was disconnection and switch to some other service. With this many TV's and DVRs, satellite is simply an unaffordable option.

I'm paying a ton for all of this on a monthyl basis and really need some help from TWC..Ii shouldn't have to hire somebody to fix this...but I have no idea how to get to the right person at TWC to complain.

Advice welcome.

You aren't sure how TWC Raleigh's HD channels have anything to do with Raleigh HDTV Info? :confused:

I believe a few of us are confused how you are obviously saying it is ok to endorse TWC delivery of HD content to Raleigh, but it's not ok to mention DISH or DirecTv as HD content providers to Raleigh.
Yes some of the debates affect more than just Raleigh, so what. If someone wants to suggest that he gets HDTV OTA and supplements the rest from ITUNES, does that post get deleted since someone in NY could do the same thing? I believe a post like that could benefit someone that didn't realize that could be done. But how about if another poster pokes a hole in that suggestion and a debate ensues. Then another says this is off-topic and calls you guys. As Moderators you could address the 1 or 2 complainers and ask them what they want discussed that is not being discussed and maybe steer them to another thread or act like a Big Boy. You could look at the post and see who actually is keeping this thread alive so people have something to read when they login.

I think the Moderators have overstepped and are now trying to justify their actions. If a few people get their foot stepped on do the police disperse the whole crowd ?

I have a big heart. I care about all areas.
Oh yea, well The RedSkins have a bigger heart. :)

You aren't sure how TWC Raleigh's HD channels have anything to do with Raleigh HDTV Info? :confused:
The thread being in the local reception (which to me means OTA) section, and TWC being cable is/was the source of my puzzlement . .

. . . there wasn't much I saw that would be considered off-topic in this thread.
. . then this opens it up and makes it less "the letter of the law" and much easier to have a lively and well-followed thread where people are always around to respond quickly to questions.

I suspect the one with their panties in a bunch was the person who called in the Feds in the first place.

I believe a few of us are confused how you are obviously saying it is ok to endorse TWC delivery of HD content to Raleigh, but it's not ok to mention DISH or DirecTv as HD content providers to Raleigh.
Yes some of the debates affect more than just Raleigh, so what. If someone wants to suggest that he gets HDTV OTA and supplements the rest from ITUNES, does that post get deleted since someone in NY could do the same thing? I believe a post like that could benefit someone that didn't realize that could be done. But how about if another poster pokes a hole in that suggestion and a debate ensues. Then another says this is off-topic and calls you guys. As Moderators you could address the 1 or 2 complainers and ask them what they want discussed that is not being discussed and maybe steer them to another thread or act like a Big Boy. You could look at the post and see who actually is keeping this thread alive so people have something to read when they login.

I think the Moderators have overstepped and are now trying to justify their actions. If a few people get their foot stepped on do the police disperse the whole crowd ?
C A R E F U L !

A few details of what I have....
I've got a TWC installed 1x4 amplfier along with a TWC splitter (I have a total of 4 sets (2 HD, two regular), broadband modem....the modem and the amp input hangs off the splitter. It's a pretty long long run from the street to the splitter/amp and then another long run inside the house. On this particular set (a Sony LCD projector) there is a SA 8300. The ch 999 diag says that signal strength is around -12 dBmv...
Just for reference, the signal strength on mine is +15

sounds like the wiring is bad some where along the way. you need to try and simplify it. disconnect everything. connect your STB to the main line that runs into your house. do some watching and also check what your dBmv strength is.

let us know how it turns out.

C A R E F U L !
I second that! The question almost screams for a political answer which is forbidden and your presence here would be sorely missed. :(

I second that! The question almost screams for a political answer which is forbidden and your presence here would be sorely missed. :(

Asking for self reflection isn't too much to ask. It's when I dig into my trench with my Pea Shooter and peer up into a Cannon, that I may regret making the request.

I believe a few of us are confused how you are obviously saying it is ok to endorse TWC delivery of HD content to Raleigh, but it's not ok to mention DISH or DirecTv as HD content providers to Raleigh.
Yes some of the debates affect more than just Raleigh, so what. If someone wants to suggest that he gets HDTV OTA and supplements the rest from ITUNES, does that post get deleted since someone in NY could do the same thing? I believe a post like that could benefit someone that didn't realize that could be done. But how about if another poster pokes a hole in that suggestion and a debate ensues. Then another says this is off-topic and calls you guys. As Moderators you could address the 1 or 2 complainers and ask them what they want discussed that is not being discussed and maybe steer them to another thread or act like a Big Boy. You could look at the post and see who actually is keeping this thread alive so people have something to read when they login.

I think the Moderators have overstepped and are now trying to justify their actions. If a few people get their foot stepped on do the police disperse the whole crowd ?

I should take note of your signature, but I'll respond anyway.

Despite all of your paranoid hypotheticals, only political commentary was deleted - that is not allowed on AVS and never has been. You're trying to stir up issues that don't exist just for the heck of it. I haven't read the entire thread, but if this is the type of arguing - just for the sake of arguing - that is typical, it's no wonder why we receive so many complaints.

As far as addressing the 1 or 2 complainers and trying to steer them to the appropriate thread, that's exactly what I'm trying to do now, unfortunately I don't see any effort to "act like a Big Boy".

The thread being in the local reception (which to me means OTA) section, and TWC being cable is/was the source of my puzzlement . .


Local HDTV Info and Reception

Not trying to be contentious as much as to offer a counter-point (I've been out of town and seem to have missed the fun :) )... I guess there wasn't that much that was actually editted (not sure how one tells), so maybe this comment is more aimed at the local readers concerned about the signal-to-noise ratio than to the moderators (yes I've been in/out of the mod game myself since the late 80's/USENET days so I have much sympathy for the issue)... on balance, I thought this is a pretty fun yet still informative/useful thread.

I concede I might be wrong, but I wonder that if only local-specific problems are encouraged (and banter discouraged) do you end up only with a "doctors office" (ie. a room of sick people staring at each other)... is there enough incentive for enough "doctors" to participate? I'm not saying the answer is no, I'm just raising the question.

I'll also concede that it can be VERY hard to concisely define what is "on-topic" for any given mailing list/forum etc.

This post is only "on topic" as much as it relates to understanding what is supposed to be on topic for this thread going forward (brings back the memories of USENET :) ) I'm not clear on whether one of my favored threads is mostly intact, or is something I will only want to visit once/week instead of more often.

And yes, I'll shut up now.

EDIT: I think many of my questions were answered by CPanther while I was trying
to diplomatically word my post :)

Mike

Did anybody else see severe pixelation around this time during this hockey game?


No. Great game! Hope you get it resolved before Game 5.

Before the Cannon decides to show you another way, how about telling me if that new receiver that Dish provided you in the Raleigh area allows control by a USB, serial or firewire port and if the remote(s) are IR or RF.

Thanks :)

Having just read the previous 15 pages of this forum, it's no surprise to me either. ;)

I know where you're coming from and you've made your points well. I haven't ruled cable out, but there is also a lot to be said for what I'd call "the Avis syndrome" or "we're number two so we try harder". You also do yourself a disservice by calling attention to an isolated instance of a competitor's lightning problems or legal battles. In fact, you may have broken copyright laws with some of your own posts - fair use has its limitations.

I respond better to positive points - like how much of TWC's infrastructure between the head end and my house is underground these days? Am I going to be able to see a visible difference between OTA and cable when watching the locals? Can TWC deliver 1080i to a set that can display it in that resolution? Does TWC's cable box allow control via a USB, serial or firewire port?

No long-term lockin is a positive point and should be presented that way. Once I've made my choice, I'll care about a long-term discount, but right now it's a date not a marriage so I like the try before you buy philosophy. :)

I'm also following with interest what dslate69 and HDTV-NUT have contributed and I find the signal to noise ratio just fine. I'm more concerned about why someone who is apparently a Charlotte resident cares so much about the content of a Raleigh forum.???

Well I wasn't gonna waste this gorgeous holiday weekend on the computer, but I guess I'm addicted. So I'll respond to a couple of your points.

First, NOT working for TWC, I'm not sure of their specific architecture, but having engineered fiber overlays on legacy coaxial cable plants, and have engineered one major "greenfield" project, I'll tell you as much as I can.

TWC has a master headend and several hubs. I'm sure there's redundancy between these locations, all fed by fiber. The hubs take fiber to coaxial nodes of around a few hundred homes. Those paths are discrete, which is what gives hybrid fiber/coax such flexibility.

I would guess that all though a lot of the fiber backbone is aerial, it is also redundant, and is automatically switched in case of a failure. The hub to node path is probably not protected. From a reliability standpoint, it meets the "four 9's" (99.99% average uptime per subscriber). Bottom line, it's reliable.

TWC does not downrez anything. They simply transcode the 8VSB ATSC off-air channel to QAM without any additonal grooming. You can expect the same quality HD as you would off the air, better in fact because you won't have dropouts during wind events caused by dynamic multipath.

The STB questions could be better answered on the SA8300 thread.

Anyway, the Dish bashing is more "lightheared" jabbing the the TWC bashers. I was an early adopter of satellite, and have used it on and off since it's inception. I've moved around a lot, and often satellite was THE better solution compared to the local cable company. It has it's place, but in the long haul, being a one-way broadcast service, it won't be able to continue to keep up. Over the next five years, it's probably a toss-up.

There you have it. My 4 cents worth.

I concede I might be wrong, but I wonder that if only local-specific problems are encouraged (and banter discouraged) do you end up only with a "doctors office" (ie. a room of sick people staring at each other)... is there enough incentive for enough "doctors" to participate? I'm not saying the answer is no, I'm just raising the question.
Mike

Well spoken !!!

I think if we just avoid "The Four G's" (Guns, God, Gays, Government) we'll be OK. ;) ;) ;)

It's a very good sign for your area if you guys have no local station or cable company issues.

Congrats.

It's not that there are no issues. It's just that it's always the same issues. Most of those have been discussed ad nausea.

A couple of weeks ago, it was announced that one of our local stations, WRAY, which carries Shop At Home, is for sale, and Shop At Home programming will discontinue in June.

WNCN, an NBC O&O has a sale pending to Media General, who has not always been cable friendly in retransmission negotiations.

WLFL, which JUST signed with CW, is adding a 10 o'clock newscast produced by WTVD. It's owner Sinclair, is busy adding sidecar digital channels in other markets.

Non of these local TV market topics generated ANY interest or response at all.

If any station has a technical problem, you better be sure you'll get several "Did you see's" the next day.

The forum only exists for the enterainment and enjoyment of those who participate. If it's information one is seeking, there are far better places to find it.

Anyone that wants to discuss this further can PM me. There's no reason to further clutter up the thread with discussion about how not to clutter up the thread. I would suggest you re-read Post #5157 which was a simple request that was offered in an effort for you guys to handle the situation yourselves to avoid Moderator involvement in the future.

First, NOT working for TWC...

TWC does not downrez anything. They simply transcode the 8VSB ATSC off-air channel to QAM without any additonal grooming. You can expect the same quality HD as you would off the air, better in fact because you won't have dropouts during wind events caused by dynamic multipath.

The STB questions could be better answered on the SA8300 thread.

Thanks posg!
You could have fooled me but thanks for the very useful input and the pointer. Being a newb here I wasn't aware there even was a SA8300 thread! I appreciated finding advocates for different methodologies here and think some light-hearted chain yanking is a very effective method of showcasing what each has to offer. Confining the discussion to trouble reports doesn't get that done. On the other hand, there is a difference between advocating and just plain arguing and if everyone respects the difference, hopefully the moderators will have less interest in this thread.

Thanks posg!
You could have fooled me but thanks for the very useful input and the pointer. Being a newb here I wasn't aware there even was a SA8300 thread! I appreciated finding advocates for different methodologies here and think some light-hearted chain yanking is a very effective method of showcasing what each has to offer. Confining the discussion to trouble reports doesn't get that done. On the other hand, there is a difference between advocating and just plain arguing and if everyone respects the difference, hopefully the moderators will have less interest in this thread.

Actually Pepar is probably a good resourse for SA8300 info, although I don't know whether he has Passport (what TWC Raleigh has) or SARA software.

Actually Pepar is probably a good resourse for SA8300 info, although I don't know whether he has Passport (what TWC Raleigh has) or SARA software.
Doggone it, there's another example of Raleigh specific info that doesn't come from trouble reports or national forums. And Pepar provides balance and humor that make this thread better.

Local HDTV Info and Reception
Doh! Right there it is, above your post. Sorry.

Actually Pepar is probably a good resourse for SA8300 info, although I don't know whether he has Passport (what TWC Raleigh has) or SARA software.
As this relates to Local HDTV Info and Reception > Raleigh, NC :) , I have Passport 2.5.043. I suspect that will change for at least on of my 8300HDs as I have been asked if I want to help test beta Passport that supports SATA. I've supplied them with the RF IP address of the unit I want to use for the test.

The 8000HD/8300HD Passport (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=4447772&&#post4447772) thread is an excellent source for information on that combo, and the 8300hd and External SATA - It works! (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=5277957&&#post5277957) is a good thread as well, if for no other reason than to watch the SARA users struggle with SATA with the hope that Aptiv Digital will turn out a more robust solution.

Anyone that wants to discuss this further can PM me. There's no reason to further clutter up the thread with discussion about how not to clutter up the thread. I would suggest you re-read Post #5157 which was a simple request that was offered in an effort for you guys to handle the situation yourselves to avoid Moderator involvement in the future.

Thanks, we'll try to behave. Actually your time is better spent "cleaning" spoilers off the "Lost" post, and clarifying what is a spoiler and what is not every fifth post or so ;) ;) ;) ;) ;) ;) ;)

Just funnin' with ya.

The 8000HD/8300HD Passport (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=4447772&&#post4447772) thread is an excellent source for information on that combo, and the 8300hd and External SATA - It works! (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=5277957&&#post5277957) is a good thread as well, if for no other reason than to watch the SARA users struggle with SATA with the hope that Aptiv Digital will turn out a more robust solution.
Thanks pepar!
I'm leaning toward supplying my own PVR solution but I'll look at those threads as well as TWC's site to see how much sense that makes with TWC's offerings.

Thanks pepar!
I'm leaning toward supplying my own PVR solution but I'll look at those threads as well as TWC's site to see how much sense that makes with TWC's offerings.
With CATV, a PVR supplied by you, whether external or PC-based, will not be able to record hi-def.

With CATV, a PVR supplied by you, whether external or PC-based, will not be able to record hi-def.

BigChris,

Yeah, what he said.

Question for dslate69 (or anyone else) in Bigchris's behalf.

Will the Dish network DVR, or DirecTV for that matter, record off-air signals in HD ??? Not being a smart-ass, I really don't know.

FWIW, I'm totally satisfied with the SA83000. It has never chopped off an episode of a show that ran over the normal on the hour or half hour time slot, and it is intuitive enough for my wife to use. Now if I could just explain the DVD player......

The various customer owned CableCard-I PVRs, such as the Mitsubishi HD6000 and Sony DHG-HDD250/500, are understood to employ their own unique operating systems and will soon become obsolete.

Over the next year or two, the cable companies are transitioning to the two-way capable CableCard-II,
which replaces PASSPORT and SARA operating systems with the new industry standard OCAP:
http://www.cablelabs.com/news/pr/2006/06_pr_ocap_ces_010506.html
http://www.twice.com/article/CA6297860.html
http://www.cedmagazine.com/article/CA6337823.html
http://www.samsung.com/PressCenter/PressRelease/PressRelease.asp?seq=20060111_0000224667

The intent is to make it easier for customers to not only eliminate the external STB/PVR,
but also to be able to buy their own PVRs as well as TVs that have dual tuner PVRs built-in.

"SOON" (last minute fixes always seem to take forever), we should see CC-II products finally hit the streets, including ATSC/Cable PVRs such as TiVo Series 3, Linux based HTPCs and later (much later?) MS VISTA based HTPCs.

If you're interested in a HTPC, you might want to contact Video Without Boundaries re their Linux/OCAP
system that presumably supports CC-I now and "should" be upgradeable for CC-II???
http://www.vwbinc.com/

I've got D* and I'm turning on TW next week. They gave me free installation and $100 for giving them one of my unused recievers. Probably won't cancel D*.
Has anyone been able to record from the 8300 DVR to a DVHS? Does TWC have a minimum tier where you can get the INHD?

Question for dslate69 (or anyone else) in Bigchris's behalf.

Will the Dish network DVR, or DirecTV for that matter, record off-air signals in HD ??? Not being a smart-ass, I really don't know.

FWIW, I'm totally satisfied with the SA83000. It has never chopped off an episode of a show that ran over the normal on the hour or half hour time slot, and it is intuitive enough for my wife to use. Now if I could just explain the DVD player......

Yes the vip622 by DISH will record 1 HD channel OTA and 2 HD channels SAT all at the same time. There are some issues with the vip622 as with any device one for some users being HDMI not working or working then "not working". The good thing with any problem though is there are updates at a very steady pace.
One other note on using DISH as your HD provider, in there latest Tech Forum they showed Raleigh as being added in Mid May. They did add all but 3 of the cities on their list, Raleigh being one of them. That means we will be coming on line very soon, but I would love to here from NBC17ENG for any inside info (like how they provide the signal to DISH).

Bigchris,
I will tell you the good, the bad and the ugly about DISH and of course TWC. I don't have a horse in the race, unless subconsciously I am justifying my investment. I love HD and I think the HD quality of DISH is on par with TWC and the SD is noticeably better (as of the day I canceled TWC). That being said I would always DL episodes of Smallville (sorry I am a Superman nut) from the net in 16:9 but less than HD resolution when I had TWC. I was always happy with the quality and if you have ever watched a DIVX or XVID movie you know how good the quality can be. But since having DISH and being able to record WB in HD the difference is without a doubt dramatic between the two.
The reason I tell you all this is that I would trade the quality of my HD channels to have ALL the channels be 16:9 and only XVID quality so maybe my eyes and\or priorities when it comes to HD are different than others on this thread.
The vip622 receiver for DISH is light-years ahead of the 8300HD with its 16:9 3hr-onscreen 9-day guide and Multi-Room functionality.

Just don't take my word for it and God Knows don't take Posg or HDTV-Nut 's word for it. ;) Get a gander at both in action and decide how much $ you are willing to part with up front. I think the choice will be easy after that. I did have to pay $299 lease fee and your first bill is for 2 months, but DISH does have a 30 day risk fee policy now.
I spent $3000+ on my HD setup and it is just a shame to feed it baby food. :)

Yes the vip622 by DISH will record 1 HD channel OTA and 2 HD channels SAT all at the same time. There are some issues with the vip622 as with any device one for some users being HDMI not working or working then "not working". The good thing with any problem though is there are updates at a very steady pace.
One other note on using DISH as your HD provider, in there latest Tech Forum they showed Raleigh as being added in Mid May. They did add all but 3 of the cities on their list, Raleigh being one of them. That means we will be coming on line very soon, but I would love to here from NBC17ENG for any inside info (like how they provide the signal to DISH).

Don't know about Dish, but DirecTV picks up all their signals off-air and uplinks them from their uplink facilites on Capitol Blvd near Wake Forest. TWC has fiber feeds from WRAL/WRAZ and UNC, and the rest are off-air, both SD and HD last I heard.

For the most part, local stations don't have much involvement in how their signals are handled by DirecTV. DirecTV used to have a lot of fiber links with stations, but for economic sake, has pretty much gone to the off-air solution.

Good reading from holl_ands. Your contributions to this site are always extremely informative and welcome. I hadn't been following OPAC as closely as I should have, but it sounds like it should be taken into consideration when shopping for HD hardware and service providers.

With CATV, a PVR supplied by you, whether external or PC-based, will not be able to record hi-def.
I think TWC in Raleigh recently scrambled the HD feeds for Discovery-HD and TNT-HD (others?) but I was under the impression that TWC in Raleigh was still broadcasting the network HD channels in the clear. Is that not still the case?

Don't know about Dish, but DirecTV picks up all their signals off-air and uplinks them from their uplink facilites on Capitol Blvd near Wake Forest. TWC has fiber feeds from WRAL/WRAZ and UNC, and the rest are off-air, both SD and HD last I heard.

For the most part, local stations don't have much involvement in how their signals are handled by DirecTV. DirecTV used to have a lot of fiber links with stations, but for economic sake, has pretty much gone to the off-air solution.

I couldn't tell any difference in TWC and OTA with WRAL, they both are stunning.
It is all digital so as long as the SATs antennas are close enough to the source weather shouldn't even bother the signal. So theoretically there should be no difference in delivery via fiber or ota uplinked by a SAT. Though fiber sounds sexier. This is just the original signal, I concede the SATs then reencode it before it hits my TV.

I couldn't tell any difference in TWC and OTA with WRAL, they both are stunning.
It is all digital so as long as the SATs antennas are close enough to the source weather shouldn't even bother the signal. So theoretically there should be no difference in delivery via fiber or ota uplinked by a SAT. Though fiber sounds sexier. This is just the original signal, I concede the SATs then reencode it before it hits my TV.

I lived in Idaho when the 9/11 attacks occured. I had Distant Network Service from NY/LA via DirecTV, which at the time, was VERY fortunate to have fiber links from the NY stations, which all transmitted off the World Trade Center.

The real advantage to a fiber feed is that if the transmitter fails, or the tower falls due to heavy ice, service is not interrupted. But on a day to day basis, you're right.

I think TWC in Raleigh recently scrambled the HD feeds for Discovery-HD and TNT-HD (others?) but I was under the impression that TWC in Raleigh was still broadcasting the network HD channels in the clear. Is that not still the case?

Yes. But Discovery HD and TNT HD are part of the entry digital service package, not the HD pack.

I think TWC in Raleigh recently scrambled the HD feeds for Discovery-HD and TNT-HD (others?) but I was under the impression that TWC in Raleigh was still broadcasting the network HD channels in the clear. Is that not still the case?
Dunno, but how ya gonna get the hi-def signal outta the box and into your recorder?

The various customer owned CableCard-I PVRs, such as the Mitsubishi HD6000 and Sony DHG-HDD250/500, are understood to employ their own unique operating systems and will soon become obsolete.Obsolete is not the right term.

From what I've been told by CableLabs, all existing CableCARD products, including those that have HD DVR capability (for OTA & cable) like the Sony & Mitsu, will still continue to function as they currently do into the indefinite future.

They do not have the ability to upgrade to any 2nd generation functionality, but will retain all existing functions.

Dunno, but how ya gonna get the hi-def signal outta the box and into your recorder?With the two examples above (Sony & Mitsu), you simply connect the coax into the DVR and rent the CableCARD from the cableco.

Yes. But Discovery HD and TNT HD are part of the entry digital service package, not the HD pack.

Until recently , these HD channels were broadcast in-the-clear via TWC QAM, but alas no more.... The local network channels and UNC-tv are still available via QAM. :rolleyes:

Dunno, but how ya gonna get the hi-def signal outta the box and into your recorder?
My current PC OTA card also does quam so if the local HDs are unencripted I could take them directly off the catv. I have read something about the FCC mandating the cablecos to carry locals unencripted but I need to revisit that info before I'd claim to know what I'm talking about.

PCs can get HD via firewire from stbs that support it, though cablecard is a better alternative. The question with cablecard is is your cableco innovative or are they inclined to stagnate on what they've got already.

If you're interested in a HTPC, you might want to contact Video Without Boundaries re their Linux/OCAP
system that presumably supports CC-I now and "should" be upgradeable for CC-II???
http://www.vwbinc.com/
Thanks for the link! What they're claiming for 2Q06 sounds pretty aggressive, especially running Linux on a VIA chipset. Their initial 200Gb HD offering does sound a little underwhelming for recording HDTV too. This will be an interesting one to watch.

My current PC OTA card also does quam so if the local HDs are unencripted I could take them directly off the catv. I have read something about the FCC mandating the cablecos to carry locals unencripted but I need to revisit that info before I'd claim to know what I'm talking about.The issue of local HD and if cableco's can encrypt does not have a clear answer.

The bottom line is that some cableco's pass local HD in the clear, and others do not. Regardless of how the regulations are interpreted, the FCC does not take action in these matters, at least up to this point in time.

My sources tell me the legal departments at some cableco's believe it's illegal to encrypt local HD. They also say other cableco's believe it's legal and consequently do so.

The issue of local HD and if cableco's can encrypt does not have a clear answer.

The bottom line is that some cableco's pass local HD in the clear, and others do not. Regardless of how the regulations are interpreted, the FCC does not take action in these matters, at least up to this point in time.

My sources tell me the legal departments at some cableco's believe it's illegal to encrypt local HD. They also say other cableco's believe it's legal and consequently do so.
I've been hearing the same thing. It'll probably take a class action law suit to get it all sorted out.

Has anyone else noticed that FOX 50 is broadcasting a channel 27 - 5 and 27 - 6 and including 50 - 1 equals 3 channels in HD at once. Just wondering if I was the only one getting it.

Has anyone else noticed that FOX 50 is broadcasting a channel 27 - 5 and 27 - 6 and including 50 - 1 equals 3 channels in HD at once. Just wondering if I was the only one getting it.

You're not alone. They just popped up a few days ago at my house without a "add digital" or "autoprogram". Probably a glitch in their PSIP code, it's all the same transmission.

I noticed the fox issue also. To me it looked like the PQ was worse also.

Has anyone else noticed that FOX 50 is broadcasting a channel 27 - 5 and 27 - 6 and including 50 - 1 equals 3 channels in HD at once. Just wondering if I was the only one getting it.
Is that 27-5 & 27-6 the RF channel or the virtual (remapped) channel? Everytime I punch in any 27.x number it just jumps to ch.28.1 UPN.

Speaking of PSIP issues... I recently got one of those SDTV's that has an integrated ATSC tuner built in and WRAL is showing up as 53-003 and 53-004. All other channels remap to their "real" designations. Anyone have an idea why this is happening? Is this a bug in WRAL's PSIP data? It's bugging the heck out of me; I just want to punch in 5-1 or 5-2 and be done with it!

I haven't noticed the problem with WRAZ Fox 50. Like Daryl, when I punch in 27-5 and 27-6, it just goes over to UPN 28.

I noticed the fox issue also. To me it looked like the PQ was worse also.

That's just your wild imagination. My tuner diagnostics indicates that 27.5 and 27.6 are still physical channel 49, as they would be.

Think Fox50 is gearing up for TubeTV or MyNetworkTv? Just wild guesses to what's going on. ;)

My reception today from Raleigh has been terrible. Fox50 has been going in and out all day (out majority of the time) so that is probably why I haven't detected 27-5 or 27-6 yet. I'll check later on tonight.

Think Fox50 is gearing up for TubeTV or MyNetworkTv? Just wild guesses to what's going on. ;)

My reception today from Raleigh has been terrible. Fox50 has been going in and out all day (out majority of the time) so that is probably why I haven't detected 27-5 or 27-6 yet. I'll check later on tonight.

Daryl,

Here's a link to a map which shows real time VHF/UHF tropospheric reception conditions across the US. It seems to be relatively accurate and timely.


http://www.mountainlake.k12.mn.us/ham/aprs/path.cgi?map=na

Daryl,

Here's a link to a map which shows real time VHF/UHF tropospheric reception conditions across the US. It seems to be relatively accurate and timely.


http://www.mountainlake.k12.mn.us/ham/aprs/path.cgi?map=na
Thx posg. I locked onto Fox50 a little later. I normaly lock onto WRAZ and WRAL through the majority of the day but yesterday for some reason WRAZ seemed weaker than WRAL. lastnight I did a rescan after locking in WRAZ and still did not pick of 27-5 or 27-6.

With CATV, a PVR supplied by you, whether external or PC-based, will not be able to record hi-def.

Using a non-cable card DVR (MythTV), I can record the clear to air channels that TWC offers in hi-def.


If you're interested in a HTPC, you might want to contact Video Without Boundaries re their Linux/OCAP
system that presumably supports CC-I now and "should" be upgradeable for CC-II???
http://www.vwbinc.com/

Straying somewhat into the weeds for this forum, but for some info on VWB, have a look at the following threads on the MythTV users' list:
http://www.gossamer-threads.com/lists/mythtv/users/195733?#195733
http://www.gossamer-threads.com/lists/mythtv/users/195765


Drew

Does anyone know if the local TWC will be airing the MLB EI HD games? Please see this (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=681882) post.

I wasn't home to check yesterday.

Jeff

Does anyone know if the local TWC will be airing the MLB EI HD games? Please see this (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=681882) post.

I wasn't home to check yesterday.

Jeff

One day last week or the week before, there was an extra Channel in the HD range that was listed as MLB Extra Innings HD game. The next day it said NHL Open Ice HD or NBA, not sure which. Then it was gone.

Yeah, I saw that too. I was hoping someone had more insight as to whether the channel showed up yesterday.

So, my mom is getting a plasma and I am going to be hooking it up for her. She has TWC and has ordered an HD DVR and the cable guys is supposed to install it Friday. I assume she will be getting the 8300HD? I want to buy an HDMI cable before I head over once the TV gets delivered and want to make sure it will work with the DVR and she does not know what the heck I am talking about to confirm it with them.

The TV is a Samsung HP-S4253 if anyone has any specific comments about its interoperability with the 8300.

So, my mom is getting a plasma and I am going to be hooking it up for her. She has TWC and has ordered an HD DVR and the cable guys is supposed to install it Friday. I assume she will be getting the 8300HD? I want to buy an HDMI cable before I head over once the TV gets delivered and want to make sure it will work with the DVR and she does not know what the heck I am talking about to confirm it with them.

The TV is a Samsung HP-S4253 if anyone has any specific comments about its interoperability with the 8300.

There's no guarantee you'll get the 8300HD they may give you the 8000HD. You can be persistent, hold out and you can probably twist their arm for an 8300 but it probably won't be on the same day. Just keep your fingers crossed.

Hold off on the HDMI until you know for certain. There is no HDMI port on the 8000HD.

So, my mom is getting a plasma and I am going to be hooking it up for her. She has TWC and has ordered an HD DVR and the cable guys is supposed to install it Friday. I assume she will be getting the 8300HD? I want to buy an HDMI cable before I head over once the TV gets delivered and want to make sure it will work with the DVR and she does not know what the heck I am talking about to confirm it with them.

The TV is a Samsung HP-S4253 if anyone has any specific comments about its interoperability with the 8300.

Even if she gets the 8300 I would HIGHLY RECOMMEND you not connect it via HDMI. See the "8300 DVR" thread in the DVR section. http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=453804&page=126&pp=30 There are a ton of glitches with these boxes and HDMI. For example, if you switch sources to watch a DVD, once you switch back to the 8300, 90% of the time you need to reboot the box.

I have mine connected via HDMI but then again I am a videophile and am willing to put up with the HDMI glitches in order to get the best picture. Im sure your mother will get a huge headache using HDMI. Sometimes the box simply dosent make the "handshake" with the TV when you turn it on, thus it has to be rebooted again. I bet I reboot my box about 5-6 times per week because of HDMI issues.

Connect it via Component and save your mom the trouble.

For what it's worth when I moved 2 weeks ago and the cable guy came out, I had him swap my 8000HD for the 8300HD, and he said that they had tons of problems with the 8000's and were not carrying them anymore. Who knows if it's true, but just passing it along.

Excellent. Thanks for the input. I will just go with component. I know she will not know the diff. I was just hoping to be able to fish one thin cable down the wall as opposed to the component and audio, but that's life.

Even if she gets the 8300 I would HIGHLY RECOMMEND you not connect it via HDMI. See the "8300 DVR" thread in the DVR section. http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=453804&page=126&pp=30 There are a ton of glitches with these boxes and HDMI. For example, if you switch sources to watch a DVD, once you switch back to the 8300, 90% of the time you need to reboot the box.

I have mine connected via HDMI but then again I am a videophile and am willing to put up with the HDMI glitches in order to get the best picture. Im sure your mother will get a huge headache using HDMI. Sometimes the box simply dosent make the "handshake" with the TV when you turn it on, thus it has to be rebooted again. I bet I reboot my box about 5-6 times per week because of HDMI issues.

Connect it via Component and save your mom the trouble.

HDMI does have it's handshake problems do to HDCP. But I think it is TV set specific, for example when I had an 8300HD I never had to reboot the box do to HDMI issues. I switch inputs an average of 10 times a day, easy. I have a Toshiba 62HM94 DLP for what it's worth. Although TWC could have updated the software ............ Sorry, I'm back; I just fell on the floor laughing. :D

Excellent. Thanks for the input. I will just go with component. I know she will not know the diff. I was just hoping to be able to fish one thin cable down the wall as opposed to the component and audio, but that's life.

And Time Warner should give you the component cable when they install the box.

And Time Warner should give you the component cable when they install the box.
Every 8300/8300HD I've got came with a basic component cable that is suitable for most systems with <36" displays. Bigger than that and I would purchase something better.

DISH has uplinked the Raleigh HD Locals (ABC,NBC,CBS,FOX) to their SAT at 118.75w.

The good news is they are probably a couple of weeks away from being available to subscribers. :)

The bad news is that anyone receiving HD from DISH with a Dish500 or Dish1000 may need it replaced with a Dish500+ or Dish1000+ (they can see 119 and 118.75 with one LNB). :(

DISH has uplinked the Raleigh HD Locals (ABC,NBC,CBS,FOX) to their SAT at 118.75w.

The good news is they are probably a couple of weeks away from being available to subscribers. :)

The bad news is that anyone receiving HD from DISH with a Dish500 or Dish1000 may need it replaced with a Dish500+ or Dish1000+ (they can see 119 and 118.75 with one LNB). :(

Still have seen NO PRESS about the "new" HD channels.

Still have seen NO PRESS about the "new" HD channels.

Yea and I had posted that they would probably be available today or tomorrow but it looks like it is going to be next week during DISH's "Team Summit".
Unless they do a early press release before Thursday when it starts, the DISH news will start then and continue until Sunday.