From what I heard - the SATA port is enabled on all 8300HD drives. Do you know any different ?

Max

Originally posted by KTrout
umenon: You might want to make sure the external drive feature is activated on the 8300 before you put your 250GB on it.

I can't seem to get an answer from WCBD on the status of their tower upgrade. No news is usually bad news.

Re Patton & Young

I had a 60" Panasonic 4:3 was just under 4 years old, started to get green bars up and down the picture, was bought from best buy with the 4 year service plan.

Well patton and young where the service guys for bestbuy, they came and picked it up, two guys, dropped it, scratched the case, and broke the case on one bottom edge, we were not happy to say the least...

a month goes by, no news, so we called they told us, it was ready and would be bought back, we asked about the case, well it's ok they said, we asked if it was a new one, due to the damge caused by pickup..no they told us... we insisted on a new cabinet...which we called panasonic and knew this was available...so 7 weeks later we goty the TV back...same green lines down the picture...nice new cabinet...same green lines...this time 6 guys delivered it so they didnt drop it...they took it away again....

We called best buy and told them how incompetant P&Y are...

They now told us there was a board problem and this board was no longer available..so the TV could not be repaired..so we ended up having to replace it, no 60" 4:3's available anymore, closest was a 65" Mitsibishi Widescreen :) nice i thought....18 weeks to get a new TV/watchable TV

The moral of the story...NEVER let Patton & Young touch your TV and ALWAYS buy the extended Service Plan...i don't normally, but i will always on a BIG TV...

Paul
Summerville

Thanks Paul for the encouraging news on P&Y! Gives me warm fuzzies. This sucks, i don't know what i'm going to do.

umenon: COMCAST does not have the port activated.

dolemite: Not to pile on, but I also had a problem w/ P&Y. Had a problem with an intermittent failure with my TV. P&Y seemed to work against me getting a replacement TV by not supporting the find with the manufacturer. I would suggest you go up the chain with the Apex service center.
I don't mean to sound conspiracy like, but the way they seem to operate reminded me of that movie Rainmaker or something like that where the insurance company would deny all claims initially, no matter what and force you to get legal representation and then settle. They would bet on only a fraction of people going to that trouble. Seems like P&Y might be an authorized service center because they do the same thing.
Again, politely start jumping up and down.

Anyone know why NBC sometimes broadcasts in full widescreen and other times it's just 4:3 in letterbox? I've noticed sometimes while watching West Wing that in the middle of the episode it switches over, but tonights episode of Medium stayed in 4:3 all night. I'd hate to call it HD, since NBC only says presented in "Widescreen".

Originally posted by lancer1991
Anyone know why NBC sometimes broadcasts in full widescreen and other times it's just 4:3 in letterbox? I've noticed sometimes while watching West Wing that in the middle of the episode it switches over, but tonights episode of Medium stayed in 4:3 all night. I'd hate to call it HD, since NBC only says presented in "Widescreen".

I would love to help you with an answer, but TWC hasn't gotten with the program on NBC HD either (reference to recent FOX discussions:-) Sorry, I don't mean to bash just one side of the equation...but NBC doesn't seem to be interested in ponying up either a cable feed or decent OTA power...so I will stay in the dark here in Summerville a little while longer. :cool:

Frank,

Do you know when Comcast-charleston will enable the SATA port on the 8300HD ? After hearing others successfully increasing their HD storage capacity by adding external SATA drives to the 8300HD ... I prompty spent $250 for the case, drive and special cable. :(

Fortunately, the wife is in the dark about this recent project.

Max

Originally posted by umenon
From what I heard - the SATA port is enabled on all 8300HD drives. Do you know any different ?

Max

This port is not currently active on TWC 8300s.

WCBD has indicated that work in Awendaw should be complete by July 1st.

There may be some disruptions in late May early June as transitions are accomplished.

I don't know if FOX will be up prior to that, I will attempt to find out.

Do you know when Comcast-charleston will enable the SATA port on the 8300HD ?

I have not heard an ETA on the port being activated. When they are, I will try and post a notice on the boards to try and give everyone a heads up.

Frank Thomas
Comcast Cable

Frank,

Thank you for the feedback.

Would it be possible to broadcast some test patterns on one of the HD channels .. (say, BRAVESHD channel) .. so we can calibrate our display devices ? I just bought a DVI-capable projector and wanted to calibrate it as accurately as possible for HD reception.

If its logistically difficult during prime hours ... perhaps sometime late in the night ... where it competes against the infomercials for GirlsGoneWild :)

HDNet used to broadcast such patterns over at TWC ... perhaps Comcast could fix us up with something ?

Thank you.

Max

Tried checking in other forums for this answer, but haven't been successful yet. I noticed someone else commented on the 8300 box and switching HD stuff over to 480. I changed from pass-through to upconvert and still get this problem. The worst is if I decide to pause a recording of something live or rewind, it changes all the time. I can usually get it to switch back if I go to another HD, preferably with another HD format and it corrects. Problem is, if I'm recording another program I only have one station to switch back to.

Is this a problem with the firmware we have here locally or has any one found another forum that discussing this as a global problem with the 8300? I know from reading the "SA 8300 HD Tips & Tricks -- SARA (Cox Cable)" in the DVR portion of the HD forums that it seems like there are many firmware versions out there.

What does "switching HD stuff over to 480" mean? Are you sure they are not SD shows on HD channels?

No, what I get is horizontal grey bars at the top and bottom. Like I said, if I change the channel and then back again, it goes into 720p or 1080i.

Sorry, off topic, but has any noticed WCIV being unwatchable lately? HD looks ok, but SD OTA and Comcast8 are sooooo dark. I readjusted my grayscale and freaked when 20/20 was on last nite, but the other channels are ok.
Any thoughts on the article in Post & Courier, page 4 ?

WOW! Tin foil works!
As ya'll know, during the fall(without all the foliage) I've picked up FOX pretty well OTA here in Old Mt. P(behind Paige's Theive's Market/Mama Brown's). Since the Spring foliage started blooming, I've gotten a bunch of breakup. Well, I really wanted to see this Darlington Nascar race and I was experiencing a bunch of breakup. I had an idea! Tin foil!! I put 2 strips of tin foil on the "grill" of my CM4228 and now I don't have breakup!! SWEET!:D Just FYI in case you guys wanna try it.
Now, if FOX could only recharge that car battery they're broadcasting off of or FINALLY pick up the slack and get things going on the Awendaw tower...!!

Originally posted by Hatfield
WOW! Tin foil works!
As ya'll know, during the fall(without all the foliage) I've picked up FOX pretty well OTA here in Old Mt. P(behind Paige's Theive's Market/Mama Brown's). Since the Spring foliage started blooming, I've gotten a bunch of breakup. Well, I really wanted to see this Darlington Nascar race and I was experiencing a bunch of breakup. I had an idea! Tin foil!! I put 2 strips of tin foil on the "grill" of my CM4228 and now I don't have breakup!! SWEET!:D Just FYI in case you guys wanna try it.
Now, if FOX could only recharge that car battery they're broadcasting off of or FINALLY pick up the slack and get things going on the Awendaw tower...!!

Cool Beans....maybe you can loan that roll of tin foil to FOX...might do wonders for their transmission :)

If I venture out onto the roof to put foil on my SS, I'll never hear the end of it from my better half.
whisper - Reynolds heavy duty or just the regular stuff?

Originally posted by loadams
If I venture out onto the roof to put foil on my SS, I'll never hear the end of it from my better half.
whisper - Reynolds heavy duty or just the regular stuff?
People will probably think you're trying to pick up alien signals or somethin'.:p
It was Reynolds heavy duty. And I imagine it would be difficult for an outdoor antenna. It would act like a sail in the wind and probably cause more problems than its worth. Since mine's in the attic, no worries of wind. I will be getting Comcast HD shortly though, but I still need the antenna for the three other HDTVs in the house. I don't need a converter at each one; it's just not necessary.
Oh, and I doubt the tin foil would help FOX any. What they need is a strong, swift flying burrito upside their friggin' heads!!

Ditto.
Plan 2 is to wait until my neighbor is at work tomorrow, prune a few limbs then not appear in public for a week or so.

Couldn't figure it out by searching, and it sounds like the site still hasn't been updated:

I'm thinking about switching to comcast from directv. Could anybody list the comcast hd offerings?

We currently offer:

ABC, CBS, Fox, and PBS HD
(You would need an HD/DVR converter box and basic cable or higher to receive these channels)

ESPN, Discovery, TNT, and Braves in HD, InHD1 and InHD2
(You would need an HD or DVR/HD converter box and Digital Service to receive these channels)

HBO, Showtime, Cinemax, and Starz HD
(You would need an HD or DVR/HD converter, Digital Service, and a subscription to the Premium channel to receive these channels.

Let me know if you have any questions

Frank Thomas
Comcast Cable

I would like to pose a question to the members of this forum with Comcast HD.

Which HD channel would you like Comcast to add next?

A) Universal HD
B) HDNET
C) Voom HD Channels
D) Local NBC-DT
E) ESPN2 HD

Maybe Frank Thomas can pass the information on to the right people.

P.S.

Thanks again Frank for your help with getting me connected to ComcastHD.
The PQ is superb!
We need more HD!!!! Comcast shouldn't allow E* or any Sat provider to be the HD leader.

Anyone would be stupid not to answer
F)All of the above:D

I'm with ya on that but we know Comcast will probably add one HDchannel at a time. With that said which one would you like to see added first?

You guys sure have a great CBS station! I can pick them up around 2 or 3 times a week up here in Eastern North Carolina. I noticed tonight they are not running DD 5.1 though...

5.1 just came on! But there is no FL and FR sound, just rear speakers center and Sub

Originally posted by jspENC
5.1 just came on! But there is no FL and FR sound, just rear speakers center and Sub

5.1 OTA is working fine in Mount Pleasant SC

OOPS...I had extra DSP on...only Center, Sub, and Rear here also...good catch.

Originally posted by r.jones
Which HD channel would you like Comcast to add next?

A) Universal HD
B) HDNET
C) Voom HD Channels
D) Local NBC-DT
E) ESPN2 HD

Well, I never saw Voom, but I heard great things about it so I'd have to say
C)Voom HD Channels
Maybe some of the other ex-Voomers can chime in.

Finally got a 8300HD for TWC, on the picture format, what is the difference between upconvert 1 and upconvert2 in the setup screen... also is the improved PQ only via the HDMI ??

I only have one DVI connection on the TV and I'm using that for a upconverted dvd player, do you think i would notice a big difference between component and hdmi/dvi ??

Also when is the SATA connection due to be enabled, sonn or a long time off....

Paul

Hi There,

Although I have an 8300, I have mine set up for Pass Through and (my bad) but I wasn't curious enough to ask about those myself. I can't find anything I have here this morning to answer that question, but if some other forum poster hasn't helped you out by Monday morning, I'll track down an engineer and find out then.

I use component and my PQ was just obviously and vastly improved from the very first second it came on- I still find the compressed video on the IPG the most remarkable.

No eta on enabling the SATA.

Paul_J2


Try this link

http://www.scientificatlanta.com/explorerclub/index_new.asp

I just saw an add on TWC for NBC HD...are we getting it soon here in Summerville? They were advertising on FX about the Preakness on 21 May on NBC HD; stating to "tune in to TWC." Diana, any news? Or is this advertising not meant for our market?

Originally posted by Hatfield
Well, I never saw Voom, but I heard great things about it so I'd have to say
C)Voom HD Channels
Maybe some of the other ex-Voomers can chime in.

Ex-Voomer here...
I would love to see Equator (similar to DiscoveryHD), WorldSport (HD Spanish Premiere League Soccer and various hockey and other sports), and the Art Gallery channel (very clear images of some pretty works of art and the museums that housed them). Though I doubt that E* will be letting go of any of the rights to former Voom channels anytime soon.

As for additions to Comcast's HD offerings, I would prefer ESPN2HD and NBC(WCBD)-HD. Universal was not all that exciting for me when I had Voom. I did watch the Masters opening rounds on UniversalHD, though. That was nice.

And as for HDNet, only Andy Richter Controls the Universe was worth watching, unless you like the semi-erotic drunken banter of Monday night's GuyTV or whatever they called it. Oh, and the occaisional MLS game. But I also found that HDNet was really oversampled and cut a lot of the edge of the screen off. Maybe it was just Voom's signal, but I could never see the names of the teams who were playing, only the score.

Would love to see Rave, Rush, Worldsport, MonstersHD and UniversalHD
added to the Comcast lineup.

Though I doubt that E* will be letting go of any of the rights to former Voom channels anytime soon.

Don't know for sure but I don't think E* has exclusive rights.

"Though I doubt that E* will be letting go of any of the rights to former Voom channels anytime soon.

Don't know for sure but I don't think E* has exclusive rights."
***************
Pretty sure that they got some deal out of it since they sold their subscriber list to Dish Network effective 4-30-05, along with their satellite, and half of their prgreamming, with more on the slate to come later/next year.

Originally posted by RFrank
I just saw an add on TWC for NBC HD...are we getting it soon here in Summerville? They were advertising on FX about the Preakness on 21 May on NBC HD; stating to "tune in to TWC." Diana, any news? Or is this advertising not meant for our market?

Unfortunately that ad should not be running in Summerville. I'm sorry to disappoint, but thanks for letting me know so I can get it pulled.

Sure would be nice for a change, to get some descent HD news out of TWC. At this time of the year, when network shows are about to become re-runs on a nightly basis it would be nice to have something new to look forward to.

Originally posted by atp1313
Ex-Voomer here...
I would love to see Equator (similar to DiscoveryHD), WorldSport (HD Spanish Premiere League Soccer and various hockey and other sports), and the Art Gallery channel (very clear images of some pretty works of art and the museums that housed them). Though I doubt that E* will be letting go of any of the rights to former Voom channels anytime soon.

As for additions to Comcast's HD offerings, I would prefer ESPN2HD and NBC(WCBD)-HD. Universal was not all that exciting for me when I had Voom. I did watch the Masters opening rounds on UniversalHD, though. That was nice.

And as for HDNet, only Andy Richter Controls the Universe was worth watching, unless you like the semi-erotic drunken banter of Monday night's GuyTV or whatever they called it. Oh, and the occaisional MLS game. But I also found that HDNet was really oversampled and cut a lot of the edge of the screen off. Maybe it was just Voom's signal, but I could never see the names of the teams who were playing, only the score.

Does WorldSport have MotoGP (motorcycle racing)? I spent 6 months in Spain and 4 in Italy and loved watching Eurosport! It had everything.

Worldsport has Spanish Soccer, European Basketball and Japanese baseball.

Originally posted by r.jones
Worldsport has Spanish Soccer, European Basketball and Japanese baseball.

...and Junior World Hockey Championship, for what it's worth.

Originally posted by atp1313
...and Junior World Hockey Championship, for what it's worth.

Forgot about that. How about that weird game from the middle east that they would show from time to time???

Originally posted by r.jones
Forgot about that. How about that weird game from the middle east that they would show from time to time???

How about we just stick to the basics and get the major networks first!!!

(you know, the holdouts...FOX, & NBC...and lesser UPN)

Originally posted by RFrank
How about we just stick to the basics and get the major networks first!!!

(you know, the holdouts...FOX, & NBC...and lesser UPN)

The original question was to Comcast subscribers not TWC.
Us ex-voomers were just discussing the Worldsport HD channel.

New Topic here on Cawfee Tawk...
*****************
Sorry for the bad SNL flashback, but I was wondering if anyone else is suffering long-term damage/signal loss of any digital/HD channels on Comcast. Did today's weather knock out some circuits somewhere.

My cable went out for about 30 minutes, then came back in a limited sense. I had NO digital/HD channels. None! As of this post, I have all HD channels back on, except DiscoveryHD and ESPNHD. Am I alone in this?

All analog channels were back as soon as the signal came back on. The HD/Digitals have been slower to respond.

Originally posted by RFrank
How about we just stick to the basics and get the major networks first!!!

(you know, the holdouts...FOX, & NBC...and lesser UPN)

I am fine waiting on Voom programming, especially since I doubt it will ever be "truly" available as anything other than a satellite channel package. I agree that getting NBC-HD and any other local-interest HD would take precedence over Voom programming...

Is there more than a snowball's chance in hell that we could ever get regional sports networks in HD? I know from watching SportsCenter that there are some highlights from other RSN's that are in HD. If we can't get our own in HD, can we get someone else's? Or is access to non-local RSN's only available on satellites?

Originally posted by atp1313
New Topic here on Cawfee Tawk...
*****************
Sorry for the bad SNL flashback, but I was wondering if anyone else is suffering long-term damage/signal loss of any digital/HD channels on Comcast. Did today's weather knock out some circuits somewhere.

My cable went out for about 30 minutes, then came back in a limited sense. I had NO digital/HD channels. None! As of this post, I have all HD channels back on, except DiscoveryHD and ESPNHD. Am I alone in this?

All analog channels were back as soon as the signal came back on. The HD/Digitals have been slower to respond.

UPDATE:
DiscoveryHD is back on and looks fine. However, weird things are happening over at ESPNHD...I am now seeing ShopNBC! Did someone fall asleep at the switch over at Comcast? I am now really confused... :confused:

Originally posted by atp1313
UPDATE:
DiscoveryHD is back on and looks fine. However, weird things are happening over at ESPNHD...I am now seeing ShopNBC! Did someone fall asleep at the switch over at Comcast? I am now really confused... :confused:

I have no local digital/HD and ESPN is still ShopNBC as of 0900 hrs.
I'm going to give them a call.

All seems to be back to normal now...but I am curious. What act of God would cause ShopNBC to be displayed on ESPNHD? I can certanly understand some channels being knocked out until a firm connection can be re-established, but the wrong signals on channels? I didn't check, but was ESPN (analog or HD) being broadcast on the regular ShopNBC channel?

Also, can anyone confirm whether or not the Mets/Yankees game on FoxHD today was actually shown in "true HD"? It was obviously in widescreen, but the image quality was barely better than analog Fox. Is this a transmission/reception issue between NYC and Charleston, or simply how poor we can expect Fox's HD coverage of baseball all summer? I hope this was an isolated event and they have it fixed by next weekend in time for the Braves game.

Just a quick off-topic...nice work on the BBS redesign

I have connected the 8300HD via HDMI ... I have set the box for "Auto DVI/HDMI". The AUTO lights up in the front display.

However, even when watching ABC-HD .. which I believe is 720p .. the projector shows 1080i. The same applies for 480i. How can I set it for pass-thru ? I don't see that option.

Thanks.

Max

Settings/More Settings/Picture Format

Gary .. do you use the HDMI output to your monitor ?

When the 8300HD detects HDMI it disables Pass-Through ... I have the following options -

Upconvert-1
Upconvert-2
Fixed
Auto DVI/HDMI

regards,
Max

Whoa. Did anyone else just see that? I am watching 24 and they just had a quick message saying, in effect, "Attention DISH Network customers, the contract broadcatsing this channel will expire on May 31, 2005. If you wish to resolve..."etc.
I'm watching the OTA feed. Why would I be getting a message to DISH customers? Is FOX rebroadcasting the DISH feed through their antenna to ours? I thought it was wierd. Just wanted to see if anyone else saw it and what ya'll think about it. It happened at precisely 9:44pm. Funky stuff.

Whoa. Did anyone else just see that? I am watching 24 and they just had a quick message saying, in effect, "Attention DISH Network customers, the contract broadcatsing this channel will expire on May 31, 2005. If you wish to resolve..."etc.
I'm watching the OTA feed. Why would I be getting a message to DISH customers? Is FOX rebroadcasting the DISH feed through their antenna to ours? I thought it was wierd. Just wanted to see if anyone else saw it and what ya'll think about it. It happened at precisely 9:44pm. Funky stuff.

Yeah, I saw it over the weekend. The message is pretty clear that this is a general warning that if you are "solely" relying on Dishn for your reception of WTAT, you may want to prepare for an alternate source. I do not believe there is anything odd or wrong with displaying this on all signals. No sense in simulcasting just for that message. Somehow, with their signal issues, I don't think that they even understand the concept of simucasting at WTAT.

By displaying on all signals, it also adds pressure to the bargaining process. People will now make their own opinions: "Who is the "joker" that is causing me to miss my daily dose of Judge Judy? I bet it's those darn satellite guys trying to make me think that cable is bad and wants to eat cash from my wallet"...or something like that. ;)

Good points and well said. What a cluster-fudge. Seems that FOX or anyone related with FOX is just loopy. :rolleyes:

I just acquired an 8300HD from Comcast, and attached it to my set using an HDMI cable. My set explicitly supports Dolby 5.1 on the HDMI input, and passes it via an optical out to my receiver. However, if I set the Audio Output on the 8300 to HDMI, I only get 2 channel (ProLogic II) on every channel, even HBO (which is almost always DD 5.1). If I change the output to Dolby Digital, I get no sound at all. Is it possible that Comcast hasn't enabled Dolby Digital through HDMI? I suppose it's possible that my set isn't actually accepting it on the HDMI in, but I have no other device to verify this.

I verified that DD from the 8300 via optical out works.
I still have my 8000HD so that I can finish watching the DVR stuff, so was able to use it to verify whether a channel was actually DD.

Part of what prompted this switch was that I can't get any sound on G4 (138) if the 8000HD is set to DD output, but sound works on all other channels. Could this be a Comcast issue also?

BTW, I wasn't prepared for the price of the HDMI cable. Comcast does not provide one. Radio Shack got $100 from me for the one I'm using tonight; Best Buy seems to want $120. Some websites offer them as low as $12+shipping, but there seems to be questions on other threads about quality and actual compatibility. I plan to order one of the less expensive ones and see if it works.
-JFS

BTW, I wasn't prepared for the price of the HDMI cable. Comcast does not provide one. Radio Shack got $100 from me for the one I'm using tonight; Best Buy seems to want $120. Some websites offer them as low as $12+shipping, but there seems to be questions on other threads about quality and actual compatibility. I plan to order one of the less expensive ones and see if it works.
-JFS

FYI - I've had some customers try the cheap HDMI without success - save the receipt.

***Comcast Partnering with Tivo!?!?***

This may be old news for some, I just read on an old post from another site that Comcast and Tivo have partnered in a way that Tivo functionality will be incorporated into existing DVR's. I was wondering if there was any news locally about how the Comcast/Tivo-enabled DVR's work, and when they might be available. And how can this happen if SA and Moto make the hardware and software for their own boxes?

I would certainly enjoy having Tivo again, as it is much "smarter" and easier to use that proprietary software from SA/Moto/Dish. One thing I cannot accept from SA8300 is that it does not have the ability to prioritize recordings. With all the recent season finales, my usual shows did not get recorded because some finale was on a "special night" or at a "special time". I would have preferred in most cases to place some shows as more important than others, but it does not give me the choice. To skip a recording to make room for a "special night" show, you have to actually CANCEL the other recording. Why can't we have a "Skip this recording only" option?

I am going to stop there as I am sure we can all rant all day and still not cover all of the picky lilttle issues we have. All I can now is "I can hardly wait for Tivo to be offered through Comcast!"

Does anyone know if the Indy 500 will be in HD?

The answer (no) can be found in the HDTV Programming forum.

Titantv.com shows that it is not in HD :(

The answer (no) can be found in the HDTV Programming forum.

Sux to not have HD for the race. Maybe someday... :cool:

I replaced my TV today with a Philips 30", which has Dolby Digital and HDMI. Unless I've got a bad 8300HD. the box doesn't pass Dolby Digital sound through the HDMI connection. The 8300 defaults to HDMI Audio Output on the menu, which is stereo only because some TV devices would be silent if DD was on. If you switch the Audio Output to DD, no sound is passed for any channel over HDMI, but the optical and SPDIF ports work properly. According to the materials at Scientific Atlanta's site and for the TV, Dolby Digital should be supported over the HDMI audio connection. Can Frank help me find out if this is a local option or something that hasn't been implemented by Comcast? I saw someone in another area has a similar issue, so am thinking it might be a firmware or headend issue.

I've also confirmed that G4 (ch 138) is silent if DD output is on, but works if DD is turned off. This behaves the same way on both the 8000HD and 8300HD I currently have.
-JFS
'

Very short Off Topic post -

TWC Customers in Summerville - please go to this thread for information on new ITV products. I hope you will help us out with your participation.

TWC Customers in The Grand Strand area - your participation is also welcome, but we are not able to launch these new services until mid- to late-July (if all goes on schedule)

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=544996

TWSC and Diana .. good work. I miss those good old days up in Columbia. It felt good to be among the first in the country to experience cutting-edge stuff.

Good luck and hopefully will get to experience it down here some day.

Max

Comcast customers:
Is it just me and my SA8300, or does everyone notice a drastic difference in volume between the Analog (Channels 2-99), Digital and HD (100-196), and the other movie channels above 300? If I am watching an Analog channel and change to a digital channel, I have to usually raise the volume. When I watch a local channel in the HD spread, I have to turn it up even more. Then I really have to crank it to watch a higher channeled movie. If I change back to an analog channel from a movie channel, I darn near blow my speakers and go deaf. Is there anyway to "balance" the volume from channel to channel on my end? On Comcast's end? Or do I just deal with it and shut up? ;)

P&Y have my TV right now. Have had it for 1 1/2 month. Working with Best Buy as we speak to get a new TV



Re Patton & Young

I had a 60" Panasonic 4:3 was just under 4 years old, started to get green bars up and down the picture, was bought from best buy with the 4 year service plan.

Well patton and young where the service guys for bestbuy, they came and picked it up, two guys, dropped it, scratched the case, and broke the case on one bottom edge, we were not happy to say the least...

a month goes by, no news, so we called they told us, it was ready and would be bought back, we asked about the case, well it's ok they said, we asked if it was a new one, due to the damge caused by pickup..no they told us... we insisted on a new cabinet...which we called panasonic and knew this was available...so 7 weeks later we goty the TV back...same green lines down the picture...nice new cabinet...same green lines...this time 6 guys delivered it so they didnt drop it...they took it away again....

We called best buy and told them how incompetant P&Y are...

They now told us there was a board problem and this board was no longer available..so the TV could not be repaired..so we ended up having to replace it, no 60" 4:3's available anymore, closest was a 65" Mitsibishi Widescreen :) nice i thought....18 weeks to get a new TV/watchable TV

The moral of the story...NEVER let Patton & Young touch your TV and ALWAYS buy the extended Service Plan...i don't normally, but i will always on a BIG TV...

Paul
Summerville

sounds like you should start videotaping anytime these clown come to your house for a service call! Where is P&Y? Do they have an actual store/shop you can go to?

Good luck bigdog77. Mine was in their shop for about a month and a half. They of course said it wouldn't take more than a few days to a week to fix, but then i get the phone call that they "have to order a $400 part, and there is no ETA..." Well, i've had it back for a couple of weeks now, and - knock on wood - it look damn good again. P&Y is on Cross County Rd. right next to Generation XXX... (best landmark i can come up with) :cool:

And you would know this because... :D

Any word on when Comcast will get NBC in HD?? I'll pay the $.50/mo they want on top of normal cable!!!

Same question about NBC for TWCSC? Maybe one thing at a time...of course I mean FOX HD...

Does anyone know, have they gotten the new towers in order for these two stations? It would be great to catch their full power signal finally in Summerville (OTA).

I agree RFrank. I can get NBC OTA but FOX is still blank. Very frustrating.

Phil

Same question about NBC for TWCSC? Maybe one thing at a time...of course I mean FOX HD...

Does anyone know, have they gotten the new towers in order for these two stations? It would be great to catch their full power signal finally in Summerville (OTA).


I drove past the NBC tower in Awendaw about a week ago and I didn't see any new transmitters, but then again that was driving by at ~60 MPH. And I can tell from my reception that we're still getting signals from the usual places

Not alot going on here lately. Oh well, i'll try to get things rolling again with a question. I have the Explorer 8300HD cable box through Comcast. Does anyone else experience a constant, high pitch whine with this unit? It is faint enough to where you cannot hear it when the TV is on, but when everything is off, it's quite noticable.

Does anyone else experience a constant, high pitch whine with this unit?

The Hard Drive.

Or the cooling fan.

I will also try to get something going with a question to Frank Thomas of Comcast.
There is talk over at Satellite Guys Comcast Forum that the Boston area will be all digital and have possibly 20 additional HD channels. Will Comcast Charleston be going all digital and do you have any idea about coming HD channels?

We are looking at Digital Simulcast in Charleston. Digital customers will be able to receive most existing analog channels in digital format. I do not have a time frame at this time but it is being tested in other markets right now. Once we begin testing here I will post on this forum to see if anyone is interested. This way you can have the opportunity to get the option first.

As for new HD channels, I have not heard of anything in the pipe.

Frank Thomas
Comcast Cable

"We(Comcast) are looking at Digital Simulcast in Charleston. Digital customers will be able to receive most existing analog channels in digital format. I do not have a time frame at this time but it is being tested in other markets right now. Once we begin testing here I will post on this forum to see if anyone is interested. This way you can have the opportunity to get the option first. "

Diana, is Digital simulcast of the analog channels a possibility on TWC in Summerville?

Phil

Probability - right now targeted for later this year. All channels except Broadcast Service Tier (2-13).

The Hard Drive.


Why would the hard drive or the fan need to spin full speed when the unit is off? It is rather loud. Louder than my PC in standby... Plus, the 8000 that i had before didn't make any noise when it was off...

Why would the hard drive or the fan need to spin full speed when the unit is off? It is rather loud. Louder than my PC in standby... Plus, the 8000 that i had before didn't make any noise when it was off...


Could be that one or both items in the unit are about to crap out. May want to exchange it for another unit before you lose something important that is saved on the HDD.

Hows the ambient temp of the house? Is the unit in an enclosed entertainment center? These units need to stay cool and if they arent, that may be a part of the problem. If its not tucked inan entertainment center...is there anything stacked on it?
Keep the ventilation free . Just a couple of thoughts.

Not alot going on here lately. Oh well, i'll try to get things rolling again with a question. I have the Explorer 8300HD cable box through Comcast. Does anyone else experience a constant, high pitch whine with this unit? It is faint enough to where you cannot hear it when the TV is on, but when everything is off, it's quite noticable.

I also have this same thing. Can't imagine it would be bad drive or fan, since I'm sure your box as well as mine were brand new when I picked it up. Definitely an electronic type hum, maybe something to do with power supply.



Frank,

I had sent you an e-mail regarding your assistance in trying to push for a firmware update for the 8300 box. Another forum had stated they too had the problem with the HD channels getting hung up in 480P and not in the proper 720 or 1080 and a firmware update in their area fixed this. Any word on this? Gets really annoying when you pause live HD and when you go to replay it gets locked into 480. Only fix I've found is to change channels a couple of time. Of course you can't do this if you happened to be recording another program and it is in the same format.

Thanks.

My 8300 (TWC) was definitely not new when I got it. Im not experiencing any hum whatsoever. The only thing I hear is the hard drive spin up to speed during initial power up. Then its undetectable.

O.K.

Here's another question for Frank Thomas:

When will Comcast begin HD service to its second-class customers in Walterboro? I've been holding out on buying a HDTV dish, but it looks like I'm going to have to take the plunge. Any reason I shouldn't?

Wow. This place woke up awfully quick after that hiatus of silence. :D
Edited to protect the innocent:
I have a question. Has anyone else noticed a "skeeter" on "that channel?"
It's weird. I've been seeing it over the past couple weeks. I know it's not stuck pixels or anything since it's only on "that channel." I'm assuming it's some noise originating at "that channel's" transponder.
Anyone else?
Please excuse the vagueness. What you can't see won't hurt you. Read on to understand why I edited.

Wow. This place woke up awfully quick after that hiatus of silence. :D
I have a question. Has anyone else noticed a very small(about 1/4in.) horizontal line on the OTA ABC/WCIV-DT 4.1 feed? For a better idea of where it is on my screen, imagine your screen separated into 6 sectors like this:
123
456
It's in the middle and near the top of sector 2 on mine.
It's weird. Sort of a "dead line" that flashes intermittently. I've been seeing it over the past couple weeks. I know it's not stuck pixels or anything since it's only on OTA ABC. I'm assuming it's some noise originating at ABC's transponder.
Anyone else?

Yes, I have that darned skeeter on my screen as well. I wasn't worrying too much since it only appears on non-HD broadcasts on ABC. I don't see it for HD signals. And I am not OTA...I have Comcast.

Theoretically.... NBC is supposed to start broadcasting Channel 50 at full power from Awendaw by July 1st.
Could someone please check on this from time to time until then? I don't have a means of receiving OTA material and therefore won't be able to tell.

I suspect that FOX will then begin full power broadcasting as well.

Will post anything I find out from corporate.

Theoretically.... NBC is supposed to start broadcasting Channel 50 at full power from Awendaw by July 1st.
Could someone please check on this from time to time until then? I don't have a means of receiving OTA material and therefore won't be able to tell.

I suspect that FOX will then begin full power broadcasting as well.

Will post anything I find out from corporate.

Doesn't seem to be, as of now. I'll let you know if/when I see any change in my reception

Thanks LuvThatHDTV

I did get word from corporate today that NBC and FOX are scheduled to come online 7/1/05.

I had the problem with the tiny black bar on ABC a while back, actually 2 located up near the top of the screen. I have noticed it again recently and as you said, only with certain programming types.

Not sure if anyone noticed, but NBC had the same problem during the US Open Golf coverage, but was only certain cameras.


Anyone else have that hum issue that Dolemite77 spoke of? Maybe it's just at a level where it is heard and is annoying to some and not others. I'm one that hears it and is annoyed by it, my solution though is to just turn on the TV and not sit in that room with the TV off.

Yes, I have that darned skeeter on my screen as well. I wasn't worrying too much since it only appears on non-HD broadcasts on "that channel." I don't see it for HD signals. And I am not OTA...I have Comcast.
"darned skeeter"=good word. I think that should be the new official term for the phenomenon. I thought it would only happen with the OTA feed. It's interesting that you get it on Comcast too.

I did get word from corporate today that NBC and FOX are scheduled to come online 7/1/05.
Sweet! Now I won't have to crawl up into my hotter-than-Hades attic to flip the antenna around for Nascar! :D (The tin foil still works though! :p )

Any word on UPN going full power? Or at least more than 10 watts?

Oh, and great news from Ktrout on FOX and NBC! I guess I sounded ungrateful for how far we have come in HD here in Charleston. It is costing the stations an unbelievable amount of money to get the equipment only not to get credit by Nelson. But once you get a couple of stations HD, you want everything in HD!

I also get the "skeeter" on ABC OTA as described above.

dolemite:

It is possible that the hard drive is starting to go bad. My suggestion would be to come into a local payment center and exchange the 8300 for a different one.

Bubba1987:

Unfortunately we do not have any immediate plans to launch HDTV in Walterboro at this time. This could of course change over time.

lancer:

I verified that the update you are referring too is the one we are currently running. I asked our local engineers to look into it further with Scientific Atlanta. He did suggest that when recording live HDTV, try not using the passthrough feature. This could be a work around until they have had a chance to look into it further.

dolemite:
a hear the same high pitched whine, but it doesn't sound like a fan or HD. I will wait to hear what you do, but like you I notice it when I go up to the stb, but with the set on you can't hear it across the room

frank:
lancer:
I verified that the update you are referring too is the one we are currently running. I asked our local engineers to look into it further with Scientific Atlanta. He did suggest that when recording live HDTV, try not using the passthrough feature. This could be a work around until they have had a chance to look into it further.
This problem that he is describing happens when you use pass-through , to the extent that I don't use it anymore. When you switch between some channels in the HD region it will sometimes switch over to 480p and get stuck there. The only fix is the cycle the box. A friend of mine noticed it as well.

I will keep an eye out for the improved NBC reception as well as FOX.

I noticed last night during Law and Order that there were audio problems, a combination of echoing and popping, I thought it was a signal issue but my set reported 88-90% signal strength. Anyone else notice.

Andy

lancer:

I verified that the update you are referring too is the one we are currently running. I asked our local engineers to look into it further with Scientific Atlanta. He did suggest that when recording live HDTV, try not using the passthrough feature. This could be a work around until they have had a chance to look into it further.

Sorry, here was the response "We used to have this problem on Cablevision but that was resolved with version 1.87.14.1. You need to get Comcast to push the newer SARA version."

Here was the response I received from another forum. As it shows the firmware versions are different. Also, to backup with Andrew has said, I have experienced it in all formats, whether passthrough, upconvert, enabling only certain resolutions or enabling all.

Anyone catch "Changing Lanes" last night on CBS?
2.0 for the first 30 minutes, 5.1 with NO SOUND thereafter. And original OAR 2.35:1.
I received OTA, any of you Comcast viewers have any problems with the sound?

Anyone catch "Changing Lanes" last night on CBS?
2.0 for the first 30 minutes, 5.1 with NO SOUND thereafter. And original OAR 2.35:1.
I received OTA, any of you Comcast viewers have any problems with the sound?

Same loss of audio on TWC systems here in Summerville as well.

Surfed across it and noticed there was no sound. I have Comcast.

Problems with digital box - Mt. Pleasant
i live in an area recently converted from us cable to comcast. when watching recorded programs, sound will pop, picture will tile, sometimes quick streaks, sometimes ~1/2 screen. also happens when watching another program while one is being recorded. anyone else seen this problem? ( 4 technical visits w/ no solution)

Problems with digital box - Mt. Pleasant
i live in an area recently converted from us cable to comcast. when watching recorded programs, sound will pop, picture will tile, sometimes quick streaks, sometimes ~1/2 screen. also happens when watching another program while one is being recorded. anyone else seen this problem? ( 4 technical visits w/ no solution)

This may be a dumb question but did any of the techs swap the box out for a new one?

Problems with digital box - Mt. Pleasant
i live in an area recently converted from us cable to comcast. when watching recorded programs, sound will pop, picture will tile, sometimes quick streaks, sometimes ~1/2 screen. also happens when watching another program while one is being recorded. anyone else seen this problem? ( 4 technical visits w/ no solution)

I used to deal with US Cable when I lived on Johns Island. They were acquired by Comcast 2 weeks before I moved to Summerville (go figure) . US Cable has some really aging cable systems/lines.

campberm: Is it only during playback that you see these problems?

Thanks RJONES & SHUTTERMAKER, noticed tonite WCIV switched from 5.1 to 2.0 during the opening credits of "Air Force One". Also noticed that "skeeter" too, can't seem to take my eyes off of it now.

Looking forward to the 1st for WTAT and WCBD, multipath is killing me here.

campberm: Is it only during playback that you see these problems?
yes, box has been switched out once.

it happens during play back of recorded show, when watching a live show and recording at the same time, and sometimes when watching live tv only. new tech came out last night and told me to switch out box again with a newer model that is now available. i'll try that today.

Anyone have any suggestions for rattling windows? My subwoofer is pretty modest (Velodyne 10") but I was watching Man On Fire last night and practically had to turn the bass all the way down because it makes the windows rattle so bad. I'm renting right now so it's not like I can just replace the window. It sounds terrible. Thanks for any input.

Man's best friend, duct tape. ;)

Well, I made the upgrade. I'm now a happy Comcast HDer as well as OTA. No more fiddling with the antenna on Sundays for Nascar. My SD signal did take a monstrous hit though. Looks like crap through the SA 3250HD compared to the box I had before. I still have some more tweaking to do ie. UMR's tweaks for the new input. INHD is so nice. I can't believe I've gone this long without it.

Also noticed that "skeeter" too, can't seem to take my eyes off of it now.
DOH! Sorry. :o And on that note, I'll go back and edit my message. I'll leave it up to atp1313 to edit my "quote" in his post and the few of his that refer to it. At least we can save a few. :D

Nascar will be on NBC and TNT for the rest of the season, TNT will be HD

I am a Comcast subscriber looking to swap my current SA8000 for the 8300. Is it possible to output my saved HD programs to the new box? Is the firewire port active? I would love to make this upgrade, but will be sad to lose some HD concerts I have kept and would not be satisfied with an archive to SD via the "Copy to VCR" method.

I am a Comcast subscriber looking to swap my current SA8000 for the 8300. Is it possible to output my saved HD programs to the new box? Is the firewire port active? I would love to make this upgrade, but will be sad to lose some HD concerts I have kept and would not be satisfied with an archive to SD via the "Copy to VCR" method.

Not sure how computer savy you are but, you can transfer them to your home PC if you have the proper software and then burn them to DVD.

campberm: I assume they have checked signal strength to your box, correct?

hatfield: The 8300 box has noticeable improvement on SD signals. Plus it's DVR. I would think it would be worth it to you.

Not sure how computer savy you are but, you can transfer them to your home PC if you have the proper software and then burn them to DVD.

DVD is 480i/p ... you will lose precious resolution ... but hey its still better than copies of bootleg DVDs made from camcorder recordings inside a movie house :)

Anyone with TWC service in Eastern SC have a major outage today?

We lost all service around 4PM. All TWC phone numbers, local, 866, and 800 were all busy, so I assume many others were trying like me to call it in. Finally got HD, digital, internet, and analog (above channel 42 only) back around 8PM, and just now all seems back including analog 2-41.

This was the worst outage since getting TWC service about 14 months ago, not counting power-related loss during tropical storms last summer.

I know it's only indirectly related to HD reception but I'm curious (and a little bit steamed) that this was a "clear weather" problem.

Diana, can you comment on what happened and why it took so long to get back in service?


Thanks,

Mike

Nascar will be on NBC and TNT for the rest of the season, TNT will be HD

According to NBCs website, the NASCAR race is in HD this Saturday...maybe, I can FINALLY watch one in HD, since I can get NBC in HD OTA (barely...but they are supposed to be up to full power in a few days:)

Can someone with inside track to SA's set-top technology ... tell us what their problem is ?

I was one of the first subscribers to the cable-DVR technology when we lived in Columbia, SC. This was a quite a few years ago. It came out at a time when TIVO was a mature technology.

I recall being told that SAs attempt was v1.0 and to expect a lot of cool upgrades within the next few months.

Well its been several years now. Their DVR software cannot do simple things (like allow you to start at a specific point within a program) that other technology users take for granted. There are numerous of other gripes with this software (see usergroups on the net) that makes a software engineer like me wonder as to who is running the show at SA.

I do give them credit for stepping up and releasing a HD DVR. However, the firmware remains the same.

I have been a HD-via-cable subscriber and intend to remain for a very long time. But in this age of technology wizardy and fierce competition, I am quite puzzled as to how SA has managed to escape the radar for such a long time. Anyone have a clue ?

You could always post anonymously.

Max

I am quite puzzled
Max
I am quite puzzled as to exactly what your point is. The has been a new version of the HD DVR within the last year, the firmware is upgraded all the time, there have been some cool upgrades and you can fast forward to any point in the program. TIVO had a head start and is patented.

I am quite puzzled as to exactly what your point is. The has been a new version of the HD DVR within the last year, the firmware is upgraded all the time, there have been some cool upgrades and you can fast forward to any point in the program. TIVO had a head start and is patented.

Google to see a whole bunch.

Here is one (http://lair.xent.com/pipermail/fork/Week-of-Mon-20050131/033494.html) out of the hat.

I am not saying that I am unhappy with the cable company. In fact, I am quite happy with their level of service.

Max

Anyone with TWC service in Eastern SC have a major outage today?

We lost all service around 4PM. All TWC phone numbers, local, 866, and 800 were all busy, so I assume many others were trying like me to call it in. Finally got HD, digital, internet, and analog (above channel 42 only) back around 8PM, and just now all seems back including analog 2-41.

This was the worst outage since getting TWC service about 14 months ago, not counting power-related loss during tropical storms last summer.

I know it's only indirectly related to HD reception but I'm curious (and a little bit steamed) that this was a "clear weather" problem.

Diana, can you comment on what happened and why it took so long to get back in service?


Thanks,

Mike


Tractor Trailer took down an ariel pole with Fiber to your area.

Diana's Opinion on DVRs - not an official TWC stance:

You have to remember (1) Tivo does have patents and (2) the DVR was not intended to be everything at a PVR is - its purpose in life is to provide a combination unit to video customers that includes the receiver for scrambled signals and some of the basic PRV functionality.

SA is working to provide specific upgrades that customers request, but this has to be done in conjunction with all the FCC required equipment upgrades that are coming down the road including FireWire and the $50 digital converter so that as a country we can make the much vaunted jump across the Digital Divide - that will allow us to recapture analog bandwidth and show more HD - yadda, yadda

While it is frustrating (I know, I'm a customer too) you have to remember they are serving a heck of a lot of masters and every software upgrade as the potential of messing up something else so its a slow process.

FYI - the birth of DVRs in Columbia was only October of 2002 and we were an early launch, so the equipment isn't even three years old yet and has already gone through two MAJOR software upgrades.

Diana,

As always .. appreciate your response.

Did not realize that cable DVRs have been around only since Oct'02.

I am looking forward to the changes. I have heard Comcast subscribers in MOT country bragging about the new interface .. hopefully we SFA folks won't have to wait very long to see something similar.

Again, I am very pleased with the QOS from Comcast and TWC and for pushing technology down the pipe.

Max

That's the goal - keeping you all happy!

No wonder I'm so tired all the time ;)

On a completely different subject.

Online TV guides (I use Zap2it.com) .. do not list programs on PBS-HD consistently.

For TWC Columbia ... channel 800 does pull up PBS-HD programs and it even has the HD logo next to programs with HD content.

For Comcast Charleston ... the online guide shows the PBS-HD mirroring the regular PBS (ch 11) lineup.

Anything we can do about it ?
Max

You need to speak directly to them. TWC doesn't have a relationship with them as a guide vendor (can't speak for Comcast obviously). I have no idea where they get their info...

I got an email from Tivo.com offering a free refurbished 40 hour Series2 Tivo with 1 year service agreement. My wife and I really miss our Tivo that we had when we had DirecTV (the SA8300 is badly lacking features and AI). We are interested in getting one for the next year. As I understand it, Comcast will be introducing Tivo-powered DVR's next summer. This could be good timing. But I have a few questions for anyone out there using a Tivo with Comcast service...preferably someone who has Digital/HD packages. Any input would be great. :)

:confused: 1. Can you truly record two channels at one time on the Tivo if it has to change the channel on the SA8300 to get its signal? Does the 8300 have some sort of passthrough feature? How would this work? If dual tuner is not fully capable, this is likely a deal breaker for us.

:confused: 2. I understand that the Series2 will record a show that is broadcast on an HD channel...but in SD. Is the SD signal worth anything? Is it better than "regular" SD? For comparisons sake: TNTHD is sharper than TNT(SD), but is clearly not true HD. Would the quality of an SD recording of true HD be similar to the upconvert of TNT shows?

:confused: 3. As far as switching back and forth from Tivo to SA8300 (and possibly to OTA unless NBC-HD can finally get going on Comcast), can anyone recommend an auto-switching signal box? Manual is fine too, but would prefer auto/remote controled. If we get the Tivo, I will be dropping my HD-DVR service through Comcast. I am willing to miss this for a trial period, but I must keep the actual HD signals...hence the need for some sort of signal switch box.

:confused: 4. And lastly, can someone confirm the info about Comcast and Tivo releasing combined service here in Charleston? Will this be a firmware push? A hardware/box swap?

Thanks for the help folks :cool:

Thomas,

Comparing the quality / convenience of a recording device hanging off a cable-box (say, external TIVO solution) to a cable-box with built-in recording (say, any current cable DVR) is like comparing a frozen dinner to your mom's cooking. (i.e Assuming all Moms are good cooks).

That said ... the Comcast TIVO deal is probably an all-in-one box solution like we currently have ... but hopefully with enhancements we are all waiting for.

Max

Comparing the quality / convenience of a recording device hanging off a cable-box (say, external TIVO solution) to a cable-box with built-in recording (say, any current cable DVR) is like comparing a frozen dinner to your mom's cooking. (i.e Assuming all Moms are good cooks).

That said ... the Comcast TIVO deal is probably an all-in-one box solution like we currently have ... but hopefully with enhancements we are all waiting for.

Max

Ok, thanks,...but what I really need to know, the one thing that will certainly kill the deal, or will sweeten it, is can I record two shows at one time when using the dual tuner Series2 Tivo with my dual tuner SA8300? I have been having some phone connection issues when I called Tivo the last two times to check their opinion and FAQ. Hopefully I can get through on a clear line and get some input.

But until then, keep the ideas and comments coming. I appreciate the support. And by the way, my mom was an awful cook. ;)

Okay, I have an extension of the previous questions about using a Tivo Series2 with SA8300. I am looking all over the Tivo site and I am not able to conclusively determine if the new Tivos are dual tuner DVR's. Can I record two shows at once, or is it just record one and watch another. If the latter is the case then there is no need to worry about having a "passthrough signal" with the SA8300, since Tivo can only handle the one channel. If it goes have dual tunar functionality, then the question is still on the table.

Next question: if I cancel the DVR functions within my SA8300 and go with just the Tivo, will my SA8300 lose its dual tuner capability? Is that only included if you are using the dual tuner DVR?

I hope these questions are making sense...it is late and the baby just stopped crying...I will check back in the AM for replies....thank again all!

You will get better answers in the appropriate forum which is HDTV Recorders and Players.

From everything I have heard, the first wave of the Comcast/Tivo partnership will be in Motorolla markets so it will not have an immediate impact on us in Charleston since we are an SA market. I have not heard when or if there will be a Tivo/SA style box for use here.

To answer your other questions the best way I can....

The 8300 box is a DVR/HD combo box. If you decide not to subscribe to DVR service and just want HD, we would need to switch out the converter for a 3250 HD converter which does not have a dual tuner.

It is somewhat cumbersome to us a settop box with Tivo. Tivo will only record what is coming through the box so it is only going to record the one channel and Tivo should be on channel 3 (or whichever input the box is connected to). This will mean Tivo is more like a VCR, what you are seeing is what you are recording. You can still schedule a recording, but the set top box would need to be tuned to the program you are recording and Tivo would have to be scheduled by time and channel. You could have a second cable outlet connected to Tivo which would allow it to record the traditional Tivo way, however it would be in analog so no Digital or HD channels.

Perhaps a better option (if your TV is digital cable ready) is to use a Cable CARD to receive digital and HD service. This option should allow for all the Tivo functionality and still give you digital and HD channels. The only drawback to the Cable CARD is they are still only one way so you would not receive the interactive on screen guide or access to ON DEMAND.

Any word on the full power start date for NBC and FOX. I haven't been able to bring in NBC OTA since Monday in Summerville.

Any word on the full power start date for NBC and FOX. I haven't been able to bring in NBC OTA since Monday in Summerville.

KTrout would most likely be the one to answer that question.
Here in Mt. Pleasant I have had a much stronger signal than usual the last two or three days, with a wider range of aiming the antennan also. And right now I'm getting a real, real stronger signal for several minutes followed by brief periods of nothing. Maybe someone is playing? ( I Hope!)

Last night I had very strong signal strength on ABC, CBS, and PBS. All 3 were 90 or higher but no matter the direction I turned my antenna, there was no signal at all from NBC. Over the weekend I had been getting about a 70 from them. Hopefully they'll have it fixed before Saturday.

From everything I have heard, the first wave of the Comcast/Tivo partnership will be in Motorolla markets so it will not have an immediate impact on us in Charleston since we are an SA market.

That is indeed the reason I feel so lousy about our predicament. Seeing the rate of change at SA I have very little hope of experiencing the technology first-hand any time soon.

Almost as a revenge for bad-mouthing SA ... the 8300HD last night quietly deleted one of my scheduled recordings, so now I have to search an online guide to find the next airing ... since SA 's search feature appears to be designed by a chiropractor looking for new 'carpel tunnel syndrome' patients ;)

Max

Frank,

Thanks for the thorough comments. As it turns out, we have decided NOT to take the offer. I do not want to lose the dual-tuner aspect. As much as I would LOVE to have the Tivo "brain" working for me finding my shows and organizing the recordings in a logical sense, I just can't do it.

But for anyone else who might be interested in this deal, here is the link: http://www.tivo.com/0.10.partner.offer.asp?p=save150

Thanks again folks

Well it is July 1, 2005. Is there anyone at home that can report any signal increases with NBC and Fox?

No change here, I get 0 signal on 2-1 and 24-1 60-70 on 4-1 no lock and good on 5-1/2 and 7-1-2-3
Jim in Beaufort

No change here, I get 0 signal on 2-1 and 24-1 60-70 on 4-1 no lock and good on 5-1/2 and 7-1-2-3
Jim in Beaufort

No change here either...maybe a late April fools joke? Who had the inside info to this anyway? Was the source good? :confused:

Thanks LuvThatHDTV

I did get word from corporate today that NBC and FOX are scheduled to come online 7/1/05.

It is 7/1/05...any update??

no change here at 3. 30 PM

Now that our neighborhood is just about finished, Knology should be available...thinking of making the switch, but want to know more about it. Can anyone in the Summerville area tell me what they think...esp w/HD? How good is the DVR...will it do two programs at once? What brand is the equipment? How does it compare to TWC? I can't ignore the package price for internet/cable/phone...will save me $50 a month. The only concern I have off hand is having to lose Earthlink (via TWC)...great parental controls.

No change here either...maybe a late April fools joke? Who had the inside info to this anyway? Was the source good? :confused:

I was under the impression that it was Federal law.

I found this over at the ******s forum.

Comcast signed deal with Starz Encore

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

With this signage Comcast will be able to obtain 325 movies a month to expand its video on demand library. It is doing this to persuade existing subscribers not to switch to a rival satellite service. Comcast stated that giving video away to subscribers is the best way to build loyalty.

Comcast stated that customers used video on demand 103 million times in May.

Hey Frank Thomas,
Do you know the details on this?
Will this include StarzHD?
Any information will be appreciated.

I don't know where KTrout got his info, but I recieved this reply from a message I sent to WCBD today about the HD signal (I think he meant 2006 below):

I'm sorry to tell you that it will be this time next year before we are at full power and at Awendaw. All of our equipment is ordered but the delivery date for our transmitter is mid April. We would love to get it sooner but the transmitter manufacturer has a one year lead time. We hope to be "on the air" with our full power DTV signal the first of June 2005 but it probably be mid June.

I have started a data base for people that have inquired about when we start broadcasting high power, and I have added you to it. I will try to keep you informed as to how things are coming along with the installation. We already have our antenna installed.

Thanks for asking and I hope you will just stick with us for a while longer.

Sam Barclay
Chief Engineer
WCBD-TV/DT
Charleston, SC

Sooo...gonna have to have my teenager hold my OTA antenna real high tomorrow ;)

I wonder if that means Fox won't be out there until July or later of 2006? And good thing there's nothing worthwhile on UPN. Also, I hope for WCBD's sake that Nielsen doesn't give me one of their boxes, since there will be little if any NBC watching in this household.
And why didn't they order the transmitter a year ago so it would be ready when the antenna was ready? Didn't they know, at least a year ago, that they had structural issues with their tower and that it would take some time to fix?

As far as their pre-planning goes, its almost as if they were a government run entity. Simply pathetic. Congratulations on this great big fancy new tower. Maybe they could put Christmas lights on it for the next year while we wait for some sort of practicle use.

Maybe they could put Christmas lights on it for the next year while we wait for some sort of practicle use.

Kill me now, :D , I had today off, and was flicking the thing around all day.

RFRANK, I think that is Sam I talk with on the phone last year, really nice guy. He told me Sept. 2004, of course that didn't happen.

Even retired the Silver Sensor for a Channelmaster 3010. Great reception at 18 inches off the ground :eek: , might I add.

My source is a Vice President at WCBD's parent company who has been pretty upfront with all of his communications with me. I believe they intended to come online 7/1/05 and might have experienced a few complications.

I have not had the opportunity to speak to Mr. Barclay from WCBD yet, but I believe you might have been sent a former response and that 2005 is the correct date.

One thing that I've learned pursuing HD broadcasting here in Charleston for the last four plus years is patience.

Have a safe holiday.

Mark We are now on page 106 of this thread, funny how some stations still have the same story as they did on page 1 and 2 back in 2003
Jim

I have not had the opportunity to speak to Mr. Barclay from WCBD yet, but I believe you might have been sent a former response and that 2005 is the correct date.

I thought so too at first (second response with similar verbiage), but I reengaged with him and he confirmed 2006 is the projected year...I hope that to not be true, but that is what he replied with.

At least I can put my antenna high on my roof and recieve NBC's signal...more than I can say for FOX!!!!!

Did anyone watch the Nascar race on 2-1 sat nite. How was the sound? I got it from WSAV 3-1 in Sav Ga and all the voice was from left rear speaker

Diana's Opinion on DVRs - not an official TWC stance:

You have to remember (1) Tivo does have patents and (2) the DVR was not intended to be everything at a PVR is - its purpose in life is to provide a combination unit to video customers that includes the receiver for scrambled signals and some of the basic PRV functionality.

SA is working to provide specific upgrades that customers request, but this has to be done in conjunction with all the FCC required equipment upgrades that are coming down the road including FireWire and the $50 digital converter so that as a country we can make the much vaunted jump across the Digital Divide - that will allow us to recapture analog bandwidth and show more HD - yadda, yadda

While it is frustrating (I know, I'm a customer too) you have to remember they are serving a heck of a lot of masters and every software upgrade as the potential of messing up something else so its a slow process.

FYI - the birth of DVRs in Columbia was only October of 2002 and we were an early launch, so the equipment isn't even three years old yet and has already gone through two MAJOR software upgrades.


Diana & all others,

I'm looking at making the switch to TWC from DISH. I understand there is a $125 equipment turn in credit, as well as a $300 contract buyback. I currently have about a month left on my commitment. First question HD locals, what does TWC currently offer in Summerville, according to your website there is ABC, CBS, and I believe PBS. What about FOX, UPN and NBC? Secondly to all the members in the area, what feedback do you have on the HD DVR receiver through TWC as well as just the regular HD receiver. Does anyone know if you can hook up an offair antenna for HD signals to the HD DVR's?

Sorry I realize there are a lot of questions in this post, but if anyone has any info I would greatly appreciate the help.

Thanks,

Scott Rothfusz

Patiently waiting for FOX and NBC to be full strength out of Awendaw.

What rec. do have with dishnetwork?

I have 3 DVRs from TWC. An 8000SD, an 8000HD, and an 8300HD and all three of them work just fine. They record what I want, when I want, and keep the recordings as long as I want. I've been very pleased with them. You cannot use the HD versions for OTA reception, strictly cable.

Phil

I have 3 DVRs from TWC. An 8000SD, an 8000HD, and an 8300HD and all three of them work just fine. They record what I want, when I want, and keep the recordings as long as I want. I've been very pleased with them. You cannot use the HD versions for OTA reception, strictly cable.

Phil

Ditto

Did anyone watch the Nascar race on 2-1 sat nite. How was the sound? I got it from WSAV 3-1 in Sav Ga and all the voice was from left rear speaker
I watched the Pepsi 400 on WCBD and got stereo sound. I was using the analog outputs to the TV though, as the race went so long I didn't want to use the stereo and keep the family up! Great picture and no drop outs.

Diana & all others,

I'm looking at making the switch to TWC from DISH. I understand there is a $125 equipment turn in credit, as well as a $300 contract buyback. I currently have about a month left on my commitment. First question HD locals, what does TWC currently offer in Summerville, according to your website there is ABC, CBS, and I believe PBS. What about FOX, UPN and NBC? Secondly to all the members in the area, what feedback do you have on the HD DVR receiver through TWC as well as just the regular HD receiver. Does anyone know if you can hook up an offair antenna for HD signals to the HD DVR's?

Sorry I realize there are a lot of questions in this post, but if anyone has any info I would greatly appreciate the help.

Thanks,

Scott Rothfusz

Patiently waiting for FOX and NBC to be full strength out of Awendaw.

FOX is still a no-go with TWC...my patience is growing thin. Same goes with NBC, but at least I can pick that signal up OTA (the race was GREAT the other night:-)

I have the 8300...not too bad of a reciever, but I still don't see a difference between it and the 8000.

I think TWC is a pretty good service, and I have few complaints...first is their effort to acquire local HD signals over cable...it is a two way street, but I believe TWC could do more to bring those signals to its customers. Second, I think they are a bit overpriced for what they deliver (esp the internet)...I even thought about the switch to knology, but not sure if it really will save much money. I guess they are more cost effective than SBC (based on cost vs usage/service). But like I said, all said and done, few complaints...the customer service has been (for the most part) excellent.

Oh, and be ready to wait another year for NBC to go full power...hopefully FOX won't take as long ;)

Wow - you guys are good...

I don't know what more I could add, except that our Dish Buy Back offer is an exceptional value. I'm available for any other questions here or at twcscnews@twcable.com

Good Morning,

Just a head's up that we will be doing a universal update via a forced re-boot between 2 and 5 am on Tuesday, July 12th in Columbia and Summerville - it will not impact any of the Florence or Grand Strand areas. This upgrade is related to our ITV services. If interested, more info is on the ITV Launch thread.

Comcast Engineers/Managers--- I think I mentioned this before, but why is it that my HD/Digital channels (namely those that are duplicates of analog channels) are so quiet? When I watch the local news on HD, then switch to the analog version, I darn near blow my speakers. Is this on my end? Is this a system wide issue? Can it be corrected? It seems upon review that the analog channels are all too high or the digital channels are all too low. Please help or advise...

Can anyone give me info on the status on talks between WCBD-DT and Comcast?Nascar is now there and would like to see it without having to switch imputs all the time.

Also, I have limited basic with local HD package and my CBS and ABC feeds keep blacing out. Does anyone else have this problem? I am in Mount Pleasant.

Comcast Engineers/Managers--- I think I mentioned this before, but why is it that my HD/Digital channels (namely those that are duplicates of analog channels) are so quiet? When I watch the local news on HD, then switch to the analog version, I darn near blow my speakers. Is this on my end? Is this a system wide issue? Can it be corrected? It seems upon review that the analog channels are all too high or the digital channels are all too low. Please help or advise...

I receive my channels OTA and I definitely have a large volume difference between analog and HD ABC. For some reason the HD/Digital 4.1 is much lower volume than the analog. The rest of the channels seems pretty close between analog and digital.

All my digital ch have lower sound, both from sat and OTA the only one that is normal is TNT-HD

Old news now, but Nascar was on in HD on WCBD-DT yesterday; audio was 2.0, but seemed to be Pro Logic. Signal seemed to be about the same as always recently - stable with just a very occasional drop (like during "Gentlemen, Start You Engines!" !!), but that may have just been my reception.

As for Comcast, KTrout is the man with the contacts (and ftcbu works for Comcast), but Media General has apparently taken a hard line with the cable companies about HD carriage. I don't know the details, but it seems to revolve around a) carriage of all multicast channels (2.2 is currently blank on my set) and/or b) payment for carriage of the HD signal. I had a brief email exchange in March with Steve Gleason at WCBD (VP of Programming) which said "we just cannot make a bad business decision that will hurt our business in the long-run.", and refused to comment on time frames for completion of what he termed the "final stages of negotiations" with local cable operators.

Bottom line - if you don't have OTA HD reception, don't hold your breath waiting on WCBD. It could go live on Comcast tomorrow, or next year. I also am anxious for them to go onto Comcast - my Fox reception has been consistently good since Comcast picked them up, even though I got a decent OTA signal before, and now I can DVR them.
-JFS

Old news now, but Nascar was on in HD on WCBD-DT yesterday; audio was 2.0, but seemed to be Pro Logic. Signal seemed to be about the same as always recently - stable with just a very occasional drop (like during "Gentlemen, Start You Engines!" !!), but that may have just been my reception.

As for Comcast, KTrout is the man with the contacts (and ftcbu works for Comcast), but Media General has apparently taken a hard line with the cable companies about HD carriage. I don't know the details, but it seems to revolve around a) carriage of all multicast channels (2.2 is currently blank on my set) and/or b) payment for carriage of the HD signal. I had a brief email exchange in March with Steve Gleason at WCBD (VP of Programming) which said "we just cannot make a bad business decision that will hurt our business in the long-run.", and refused to comment on time frames for completion of what he termed the "final stages of negotiations" with local cable operators.

Bottom line - if you don't have OTA HD reception, don't hold your breath waiting on WCBD. It could go live on Comcast tomorrow, or next year. I also am anxious for them to go onto Comcast - my Fox reception has been consistently good since Comcast picked them up, even though I got a decent OTA signal before, and now I can DVR them.
-JFS



Well a good decision is to look out for your viewers. I got the HD feed OTA yesterday.and it was good. There reception seems to have gotten better the last couple of weeks. I would be even happier if Fox would get there tower at full strength. That way I could get rid of cable all together and stick with Direct TV. There is something big coming HD wise so I hear.

Anyone with OTA reception or Comcast experiencing the audio pops on WCSC-HD? Pretty steady on TWC.

Anyone with OTA reception or Comcast experiencing the audio pops on WCSC-HD? Pretty steady on TWC.

Got it here OTA

The new update is great. I have my DVR back to normal. Thanks Diana!

Has anyone had this problem with there 8300 (TWC here):

When I "channel surf," flipping through the channels one by one, the unit will lock up and eventually reboot itself, or simply reboot without notice. It doesn't do it when I change channels through the guide, but when I go through the channels the old fashioned way (especially if I go back one), it does this.

Has anyone had this problem with there 8300 (TWC here):

When I "channel surf," flipping through the channels one by one, the unit will lock up and eventually reboot itself, or simply reboot without notice. It doesn't do it when I change channels through the guide, but when I go through the channels the old fashioned way (especially if I go back one), it does this.
____________________________________________________________ _____
I have had that problem.

I mentioned it to Diana in a different thread. This is a c/p of what i reported to her.
____________________________________________________________ _____
Heres my issues, not sure if they are related to the current testing. When I power up my SA 8000 or the 8300 the box starts at channel 800 as it should. I surf the channels upward from that point. When i get to channel 849 (the first On Demand channel) the box crawls in between changing channels. By the time I get to channel 895, the box has stopped responding to any remote control inputs. It wont even power off by remote.

Now that the box has frozen up, you have to wait for it to reboot itself by powering itself down then rebooting and waiting for the clock to be shown on the display. At that point you can turn it on again manually and resume surfing channels. Just as long as you stay away from the On Demand line up.

This happens on the SA8000 and the SA8300 that I have. It happens every time without fail.
____________________________________________________________ _____

I still have this problem. Like you said though, if you change channels thru the
program guide...its not a problem.

oljim:

I live in Walterboro and I am researching what type of antenna to buy/install. Your distance from Charleston is about the same as mine, and you are only slightly closer to Savannah. If you don't mind me asking, what type of OTA antenna do you use and are you satisfied with your HD reception?

Thanks in advance.

Scott

Scott I have an old CM 1161 no longer in production ,I would try a CM 4228, it is one of the best UHF ant on the market.
All the stations ( Chas. and Sav) are UHF I would also get the CM 9521 rotor.
You are 39 miles from 24/36 and 58 miles to 5/7 and 2/4 are 45-50
Sav stations are about 70 miles from you and not worth the trouble, only 2 at high power.
You may need a CM 7775 amp
Jim

Thanks Jim.

I know its not likely to happen but, it sure would be nice if WCSC could record or transmit live high definition feed of the fireworks display from the bridge opening tonite. There is or was a WCSC employee that used to chime in on this thread. Does WCSC have the ability to perform such a task?

When it all shakes out what stations in Charleston will be on UHF channels
and which will be on VHF?

Looking at antennas,do I get VHF/UHF, UHF or VHF?


Thanks

CLR,

All digital stations in Charleston will be on UHF.

CLR,

All digital stations in Charleston will be on UHF.

Even after the analongs are gone? I have heard some digital will migrate back to VHF...

That I don't know. The transition from analog to digital is at a snails pace. The digital migrating back to VHF might be something our grandchildren might witness.

true...so true...

Has anyone had this problem with there 8300 (TWC here):

When I "channel surf," flipping through the channels one by one, the unit will lock up and eventually reboot itself, or simply reboot without notice. It doesn't do it when I change channels through the guide, but when I go through the channels the old fashioned way (especially if I go back one), it does this.


RFrank, please PM me your home phone so I can get your converter MAC address to my engineers. Shuttermaker I do have yours on file.

Thanks

I had this same problem with my 8300 yesterday and a similar problem with my 2100 on another set. A tech guy is coming out this PM to look at the problem but based on the postings it is not in the wiring as the phone tech guy thinks and I tried to tell him. I have just avoided the in demand channels -- which makes it hard since I pay for a couple of them and cannot use them. Oh well maybe we will get this fixed soon. I live in the Murrells Inlet area so whatever this is may be spreading!

It now looks like Jan. 1, 2009 will be the cutoff date for NTSC broadcasting.

It is reported that all the interested parties have said OK to that date.


Also the FCC has started on the final phase of "who gets what freq. for
digital broadcasting" Final list to be out in August 2006.

Time marches on... all this is based on nobody in Wash. changing his/her
mind between now and then.

Source- The FCC "NEWS" available at their website.

Charlie

I had this same problem with my 8300 yesterday and a similar problem with my 2100 on another set. A tech guy is coming out this PM to look at the problem but based on the postings it is not in the wiring as the phone tech guy thinks and I tried to tell him. I have just avoided the in demand channels -- which makes it hard since I pay for a couple of them and cannot use them. Oh well maybe we will get this fixed soon. I live in the Murrells Inlet area so whatever this is may be spreading!


Previous to this post I had not understood that anyone was unable to access an On Demand Channel - just than when channel surfing up in numerical order from 800, that when you hit the first Free On Demand channel the converter would re-boot.

Are you saying that if you tune to one of the Premium On Demand channels via your number pad that you always re-boot? If so, then you do need a Service Call.

I am having a problem with my HD set, and wondered if anyone knew what causes it or where to get it fixed. Essentially, on the left side of the screen (isolated to the far left), I get a blue "shadow" to bright areas...especially noticeable with words or letters...like the ESPNHD ticker (words get a shadow that extends pretty far). Seems to be consistent across all inputs and modes (SD, HD, etc). Again, it is only on the left, and seems to be isolated to about a third of the screen. Is this is an alignment problem that can get fixed? Seems weird to me that it is only the left...I have a Hitachi Ultravision 61" HD 'ready' projection monitor...about 3 years old. It has been moved once about two years ago (cross country), but I never noticed the problem before about a week ago. I have also suffered some burn in from WCSCs gaudy logo (but my wife insists on watching that news channel ALL the time:-). Also, I have tried the "magic focus" feature on the TV with no change. :(

I am having a problem with my HD set, and wondered if anyone knew what causes it or where to get it fixed. Essentially, on the left side of the screen (isolated to the far left), I get a blue "shadow" to bright areas...especially noticeable with words or letters...like the ESPNHD ticker (words get a shadow that extends pretty far). Seems to be consistent across all inputs and modes (SD, HD, etc). Again, it is only on the left, and seems to be isolated to about a third of the screen. Is this is an alignment problem that can get fixed? Seems weird to me that it is only the left...I have a Hitachi Ultravision 61" HD 'ready' projection monitor...about 3 years old. It has been moved once about two years ago (cross country), but I never noticed the problem before about a week ago. I have also suffered some burn in from WCSCs gaudy logo (but my wife insists on watching that news channel ALL the time:-). Also, I have tried the "magic focus" feature on the TV with no change. :(

It sounds to me like an alignment/convergence issue. I have a co-worker with a Hitachi set that has issues with his magic focus. The vertical lines on ESPN-HD, when they are showing SD, have a red shadow on his set and Magic Focus doesn't fix it. His set was under warranty when I told him about it and I told him he should have it fixed, but the HD picture looked so much better than his old set (even with the convergence issue) that he never bothered to have it fixed. The only thing I can guess which can be done to fix it would involve using the service menu, which can wreak havoc if you don't know what you are doing; if you can get the codes or a service manual. My Mitsubishi has very extensive convergence controls using the normal setup menu and even more adjustments in the service menu, but usually the normal controls are good enough. But with the Magic Focus Hitachi doesn't usually include manual conv. controls.
Maybe someone else with a similar set has some other ideas, but to me it sounds like a service visit or some service menu adjustments

Has anyone had this problem with there 8300 (TWC here):

When I "channel surf," flipping through the channels one by one, the unit will lock up and eventually reboot itself, or simply reboot without notice. It doesn't do it when I change channels through the guide, but when I go through the channels the old fashioned way (especially if I go back one), it does this.

FWIW - I experience something similar. I haven't beaten on it to know how consistent it is, but if I channel up from the PBSHD channels to VOD, then channel down before the 'starting Video on Demand' screen clears, the box reboots. I've seen it more than once. I'm on James Island, Comcast.
-JFS

I need a little help. When I have my 8300 (and the 8000 I had before it) set to Dolby Digital sound output, I get no audio on the G4 channel, Comcast 138. If I set it to 'HDMI' or 'Other', I get the sound only on the right side.

I tried calling Comcast weeks ago, but got no response. I haven't had a tech out yet, figure that's the next step. There's no point in having a tech out, though, if the problem is with G4 or the head-end.

Could one of you check this for me and PM me?
-JFS

When it all shakes out what stations in Charleston will be on UHF channels
and which will be on VHF?

Looking at antennas,do I get VHF/UHF, UHF or VHF?


Thanks

I checked the DTV applications on the FCC website (go to the DTV pages, and do a 'TV Query'; the info is under 'Applications'). Each station had to submit a DTV channel election form by 2/5/05 stating which channel number they intend to use after the transition. Surprisingly, most intend to stay with their current digital assignment:


WCBD analog 2, DTV 50, elected 50
WCIV analog 4, DTV 34, elected 34
WCSC analog 4, DTV 47, elected 47
WITV analog 7, DTV 49, elected 7
WTAT analog 24, DTV 40, elected 24
WMMP analog 36, DTV 35, elected 36


I expected most would want to preserve their marketing investment in their current channel numbers. Perhaps they interpret the timeframes in the application to mean that they have to switch off the analog on that date (~8/06), so figured they would still have to operate their analog channels together with the DTV at that time?

There's a related set of applications which talk about intent to operate replicated or maximized facilities at that point, but I didn't quite understand those.
-JFS

Seems that the reboot issue affects more than just myself

Hi There - I really hate to do this, because I feel like I ignore you enough as it is, but...

I'll be in Philly for a conference Saturday morning until late Thursday. Then gone to another conference in Asheville from Sunday morning until late Wednesday. I won't be checking in while I'm out of town and I'll do what I can the two days I'm back next week.

Don't worry, the end is in sight! Budgets are over August 29th!

If you do have a cable issue, please call 866.892.7201

Sorry nothing to report on Channel Surfing / Reboot issue - but since it seems to be hitting more than TWC, I'll send an email to the Engineers to have them check with SA. Thanks Shuttermaker!

Thanks - take care!

Diana, Have a safe trip(s) and Thanks for everything you do to help us out.

To All: The re-boot issue is not a TWC issue only. This has happened to me before with the 3250, 8000 and 8300 models on COMCAST. I think it's simply a matter of the box not being able to handle being pulled out of the accessing VOD mode. If it's happening on channels away from the VOD you most likely have a problem. I simply avoid surfing around the VOD channel or blow right by it.

I'm somewhat surprised to see that FOX, UPN and PBS have elected to change digital channel assignments. WCBD, WITV and WCSC were assigned channels 59, 53 and 52, respectively, initially but asked them to be reassigned a long time ago as they understood that those channel frequencies were supposed to be sold in the near future. And that would mean that they would have to purchase a whole new transmitter as they are channel specific. That is one of the reasons why HD did not appear in Charleston in May 2001 as originally mandated by the FCC.
It concerns me that FOX has made this request. It would indicate to me that they haven't purchased a transmitter yet so any hope for a stronger signal soon should probably be put to rest.

Speaking of which, obviously I was totally wrong about WCBD going full power on July 1st. Although I did just pass on information given to me by Media General. I can't tell you how disappointed I am with WCBD and it's only now that I'm able to discuss this without totally flaming them. They have a state of the art studio in Mt. Pleasant, and we're paying for it now because I don't think Corporate is willing to shell out the $ for their transmitter. I was told by an operations manager (not previously mentioned in this thread) that the transmitter had been put on order last July with an expected ship date in May. Now their story is it was not ordered until recently. Actually you know what I should probably just stop right here.

Bottom line, please support those stations locally that care enough about ALL of their viewers to not just do the minimum required by the FCC.

Maybe it was too early.

Have a good weekend.

May be of interest.

"Channel" refers to the way that the station brands itself,and "frequency
assignment" refers to the actual RF frequesnry on which the signal is
transmitted.

Many digital TV stations are branding thenselves with the same channel
number as their analog channel,even though the digital signal is
broadcast on a different frequency.

The digital TV standard makes this easy by allowing the DTV broadcast
station to transmit a code that tells the receiver to use a number other
than the RF frequency for tuning purposes.

For antenna selection purposes you need to pay attention to the freq.
assignment,because that's the actual RF signal that is being transmitted over the air.

Expect some changes as we enter the last phase of the approach to the
big day when NTSC goes dark.

It sounds to me like an alignment/convergence issue. I have a co-worker with a Hitachi set that has issues with his magic focus. The vertical lines on ESPN-HD, when they are showing SD, have a red shadow on his set and Magic Focus doesn't fix it. His set was under warranty when I told him about it and I told him he should have it fixed, but the HD picture looked so much better than his old set (even with the convergence issue) that he never bothered to have it fixed. The only thing I can guess which can be done to fix it would involve using the service menu, which can wreak havoc if you don't know what you are doing; if you can get the codes or a service manual. My Mitsubishi has very extensive convergence controls using the normal setup menu and even more adjustments in the service menu, but usually the normal controls are good enough. But with the Magic Focus Hitachi doesn't usually include manual conv. controls.
Maybe someone else with a similar set has some other ideas, but to me it sounds like a service visit or some service menu adjustments

Thanks for the advice; did a search and found instructions on adjusting the convergence via a special (hidden) menu...took some work, but squared it away! Much better now...(and much cheaper than a service call :D )

Thanks for the advice; did a search and found instructions on adjusting the convergence via a special (hidden) menu...took some work, but squared it away! Much better now...(and much cheaper than a service call :D )

Good, glad to hear it. Nice to save a service visit!

Just read an article from April that said HGTV and Food Network plan to start broadcasting in HD

Also...UPN will have it largest lineup to date broadcast in HD for the new season...though i have no idea what their lineup is :p

Also...UPN will have it largest lineup to date broadcast in HD for the new season...though i have no idea what their lineup is :p

UPN isn't broadcasting in this area yet, is it? Does anyone know?

UPN isn't broadcasting in this area yet, is it? Does anyone know?
Apparently WMMP (UPN) broadcasts on DTV 35, but their antenna is on the same short tower on Arco Rd. in N Charleston near Montague Rd with WTAT (FOX). I had asked Eldon at WCSC (our resident HD God) about this, and he pointed out that the antenna is probably pointed toward Summerville, and away from the coast. Awhile back someone had said they were broadcasting SD only, which I'm guessing means they do the same fatvision upconvert that WTAT does on non-network source. It is also low power, so it's hard to get anyway. Perhaps one of the nearer in folks in that direction can verify? I'm on James Island, and cannot pull in 35.
-JFS

My HD (for the time being) comes exclusively from TWC. They dont offer it in HD and, there is nothing they broadcast im interested in watching so I cant answer the OTA question.

However...I would like to see the Food Network and HGTV offered by TWC in HD. When it becomes available. If it becomes available.

Apparently WMMP (UPN) broadcasts on DTV 35, but their antenna is on the same short tower on Arco Rd. in N Charleston near Montague Rd with WTAT (FOX). I had asked Eldon at WCSC (our resident HD God) about this, and he pointed out that the antenna is probably pointed toward Summerville, and away from the coast. Awhile back someone had said they were broadcasting SD only, which I'm guessing means they do the same fatvision upconvert that WTAT does on non-network source. It is also low power, so it's hard to get anyway. Perhaps one of the nearer in folks in that direction can verify? I'm on James Island, and cannot pull in 35.
-JFS

Yes UPN broadcasts SD only and it looks terrible. There's a vertical line down the left side of the screen on everything the show. I do seem to get both Fox and UPN better the last few weeks than I used to, so maybe they upped the power, but it's still a crappy picture

Anybody having poor,noisy, reception on the NTSC transmissions that they
think are caused by the 100" temps we are having?

Chan. 2,4 and 5 seem to be worst, chan 7 and above doing OK.

Any problems with the digital ones?

Hello everyone. Im attempting to have Eliab of Avical Services come to the Charleston area to perform an ISF calibration on my Samsung DLP. They are touring the Atlanta, GA and Raleigh, NC areas in October.

Ive read some pretty rave reviews on the services they perform, they are the best in the business!

Ive emailed them with a request to try and swing thru this area. If there is anyone interested in have their Television calibrated, please send me a PM.

They have a website that you can learn of their services and fees.

http://www.avical.com/Default.htm

shuttermaker,

Thanks for your kind words!

Just a quick note to let everyone know that this would be a short tour that would begin on a Friday and end on a Sunday. It would be open to at least 5 participants but probably no more than 7. Depending on how quickly the tour gets filled up, it could begin as early as September but hopefully no later than mid November.

If anyone has any specific questions in regards to the calibration procedure of their display, please contact me at info@avical.com or at 908-531-7028 and I would be more than happy to go over the procedure with you over the phone.

BTW, I'm also going to make anyone that signs up for this tour a paid member of this forum! :D

Incidentally, I'm performing a joint calibration tour with my business partner David Abrams of the entire state of Ohio and much of Pennsylvania from 08/15-22 and a few slots still remain. Basically, you're getting both of us for the price of one! Anyone in these areas interested in having us both work on their display should contact us ASAP.

Thanks and I hope to be meeting some of you and giving your displays all the ISF TLC that they deserve in the not too distant future!

Eliab

I have heard that Local stations digital feeds must be unencrypted through the cable lines. Has anybody had any luck getting them this way. If so what channel will I find them on through my ATSC tuner?

Hi cgking-

It depends on who your CATV provider is, and also often which "market" area you are in.

Here in Georgetown, we have TWC and my inboard ATSC/QAM tuner "found" channels like these all in the clear, i.e. unencrypted:

80.15 TNT-HD
100.1 PBS-HD
100.4 WPDE-DT (ABC-Florence)
103.26 WIS-DT (NBC-Columbia)
103.37 WFXB-DT (Fox-Myrtle Beach)
107.2 WCSC-DT (CBS-Charleston)
107.17 Discovery HD Theater (they throw this one in for "free")
118.25 WCIV-DT (ABC-Charleston)

There are a few others, like a split of WCSC-DT's weather channel, but I won't bore you with a full list.

The fastest and easiest way to find out what you have available is to connect a split of the CATV signal directly to your set, and ask it to do a "scan". It should turn up all the unencrypted signals, analog (e.g. channels 2-99), and digital SD or HD (usually channels 100 and up, but as you can see from my list above TWC puts a few lower down like TNT-HD on channel 80.)

If your set has multiple antenna inputs, make sure the jack you use can be seen by the ATSC tuner. My Pioneer has two tuners, each with its own input connector, but one of them is NTSC analog only.

Also be aware that your scan might also "find" the encrypted channels, but they will result in just a blank screen. In my case there were well over 200 such channels, which I had to delete one at a time leaving only the usable channels in memory-a major pain! Ultimately we use the set-top PVR/box from TWC for about 90% of our viewing and only use the TV's tuner if both the PVR's channels are busy recording something and we want to watch a third program in HD.

Hope that helps. If you are in Charleston area and have Comcast, there are others on this thread who may be able to give you specific channel info.

Mike

Thak you for your reply. I did a search on mine and got a lot of blank channels and I got Weatherscan, but it didn't search any higher than channel 180. I wonder if the channels I am looking for are higher than that. Anyone in charleston or Mt. P have any luck?

So if you were satisfied with the unencrypted HD channels you would not have to subscribe to a HD package?

Not sure if I follow you Gary.

I am not subscribing to a HD package. I am renting A STB for the locals in HD. My TV has a built in QAM tuner so I have heard that I don't need a STB for HD locals. I have limited basic thru Comcast. Someone told me that cable companies by law can't encrypt local digital feeds that go thru their lines so people that have a built in tuner can get the feeds without renting a STB.

Diana,

Any word on FoxHD for TWC yet? It is football season again and still nothing has been resolved. These boneheads at Sinclair and TWC can't seem to put the customer first and get things together. I have sent out a "nice" email to Sinclair, WTAT, Fox, the NFL, and TWC about this issue. I know that you have no power in this matter but you can let the people with power know that there are a lot of upset people in the south. I pay a LOT of money to TWC for services. I would hope that means something to them.

I am sure that I am not alone in my feelings toward WTAT/Sinclair and TWC on this matter. There are a lot of football fans that would love to watch the NFC teams play with the same clarity that we get to watch the AFC teams with.

Diana, you have been a big help to us here and I only hope that you continue to do so. I just hope that this issue is resolved before I get to upset and run a line to Knology myself. (They have FoxHD you know).

I've got a bit of a problem that someone here might be able to help me with. I've recently set up an HTPC running Windows Media Center Edition and an ATI HDTV Wonder tuner.

After some research on another forum, it appears that local broadcast stations are not providing correct PSIP information to Media Center via automatic daily internet download of TV guide. PSIP provides channel numbers and their associated RF Frequency numbers. The broadcast stations are most likely providing correct channel numbers, but not associated RF Frequency numbers.

I can tune in PBS 7.1 and FOX 24.1 automatically, so the guide is getting the correct info for these channels. But I can't get any of the other channels. Now, I can get all ATSC channels with my TV's tuner because it has channel scan, but unfortunately Media Center doesn't have a channel scan, so I have to change the frequencies for the remaining channels manually.

By referring to Antennaweb, I can manually input the frequency for NBC 2.1 (50) and ABC 4.1 (34). However, when I input frequency 47 for CBS, I get the WCSC radar channel.

Does anyone know frequency that I need to input to get the normal CBS feed? Also, what kind of frequencies are subchannels set up on? I'd really like to get the PBS subchannels.

Diana,

I understand that TWC in Raleigh and Charlotte have converted their analog (0-98) channels to digital transmission. Is this scheduled for Summerville any time soon?

Thanks,
Phil

BTW, converting to digital phone this Friday.

Someone told me that cable companies by law can't encrypt local digital feeds that go thru their lines so people that have a built in tuner can get the feeds without renting a STB.

Absolutely true - you can even get an HD DVR and use the "Buy Through Provision" you can also purchase HBO for the HD, but you are not eligible to get the HD Tier with this configuration. You must subscribe to CPST in order to also subscribe to the HD (or any other) Tier.

Diana,

Any word on FoxHD for TWC yet? It is football season again and still nothing has been resolved. These boneheads at Sinclair and TWC can't seem to put the customer first and get things together. I have sent out a "nice" email to Sinclair, WTAT, Fox, the NFL, and TWC about this issue. I know that you have no power in this matter but you can let the people with power know that there are a lot of upset people in the south. I pay a LOT of money to TWC for services. I would hope that means something to them.

I am sure that I am not alone in my feelings toward WTAT/Sinclair and TWC on this matter. There are a lot of football fans that would love to watch the NFC teams play with the same clarity that we get to watch the AFC teams with.

Diana, you have been a big help to us here and I only hope that you continue to do so. I just hope that this issue is resolved before I get to upset and run a line to Knology myself. (They have FoxHD you know).



Unfortunately the situation is much larger than Summerville or TWCSC. Sinclair owns affiliates throughout the National TWC footprint (all different networks). The National negotiations between TWC and Sinclair for all these networks are ongoing, although I can make no promises about a launch date for WTAT in HD.

Certainly the major benefit of competition is that the customer has options in order to obtain the programming they desire from the vendor that provides that programming. No one on the TWCSC Management Team wants to lose you as a customer - we do in fact greatly appreciate your patronage - but this is a business negotiation that goes beyond our span of control.

Diana,

I understand that TWC in Raleigh and Charlotte have converted their analog (0-98) channels to digital transmission. Is this scheduled for Summerville any time soon?

Thanks,
Phil

BTW, converting to digital phone this Friday.

Raleigh is complete, Charlotte is not, although Charlotte, Greensboro and Wilmington (Eastern Carolina Division), are all slated within the foreseeable future, but I do not know their exact schedule.

South Carolina Division will begin Digital Simulcast early this fall. The final launch schedule is not set, however we will probably do a node by node launch throughout the Division although I can't dimension any particulars on timing at this point.

Upon completion of Digital Simulcast, we will move forward to Switched Digital Broadcast in order to recapture bandwidth to have all the room we need for all the upcoming HD Cable Network launches. Yes Shuttermaker, Food and HGTV as well as National Geographic and FOX HD (programming from several FOX Cable Networks) will all be on your "When will TWC Launch ...... in HD!!" list soon and these improvements will enable us to avoid the horrible phrase "Sorry, were bandwidth constrained".

We will certainly provide direct communications to all our customers when Digital Simulcast is coming to your neighborhood.

South Carolina Division will begin Digital Simulcast early this fall. The final launch schedule is not set, however to avoid some of the lessons learned from Raleigh, we will probably do a node by node launch throughout the Division although I can't dimension any particulars on timing at this point.



My "node" just told me...he will volunteer to be first for testing. ;)

Welcome back ..and I hope things settle down for ya

Brave Node!

Well, I'm 'set-tled' into back to back to back conference calls until 5:30 this afternoon...

Is there anything in place with Comcast to make this same digital simulcast to recapture bandwidth? I am not thrilled - just okay - with the total HD selection through Comcast and would LOVE to see some more channels opened up. I know this is kind of whiney, but I still fondly remember my brief time with Voom.

Also, a SA8300 issue with Comcast...

In the past day or so my box has seemingly gone bonkers. When I am watching a program from the DVR buffer and the box is set to record a live program, it changes my channel to that new recording without warning. It almost seems like it has lost it's ability to record two channels and display a third from the buffer. It does still actually record the two simultaneous shows, but if they start while I am watching a buffer show, no matter if it is only using one tuner to record, I get booted. The only thing that has prevented me from throwing it in the street and running over it a few times is that if I press the Previous Channel/Back button, I am immediately taken back to the buffer show I was watching, and miraculously to the exact point where I was in that show. If I had to restart each time this happened, I might be asked to not ever be a Comcast customer again...maybe.

Am I alone in this problem? Anyone else experience this?

atp1313,

If it is just one scheduled program being recorded, you should not be re-directed from a live channel or a previously recorded program. However if there are two scheduled recordings at the same time, the box will automatically tune to one of the channels being recorded. The 8300 does not have the ability to record two programs at the same time while you are watching a third, including a previously recorded program. When you click on My DVR on your remote control to access the DVR functions and previously recorded programs, that directs you to an actual channel. Once you do that, one of the tuners on the 8300 is engaged. You still have one tuner available for recording but if two recordings are scheduled at the same time, the box will automatically tune to one of the channels being recorded.

We are looking into Digital Simulcast for Charleston but I do not have any timeframes at this time.

Is there anything in place with Comcast to make this same digital simulcast to recapture bandwidth? I am not thrilled - just okay - with the total HD selection through Comcast and would LOVE to see some more channels opened up. I know this is kind of whiney, but I still fondly remember my brief time with Voom.

Your not whiney, I miss Voom also. It was definately the best HD option for us early adopters.

I made the switch to Comcast and Iam OK with the HD selection. Hopefully, they will make the switch to digital alot sooner than later and really get serious about HD.
Kudos to Frank and his crew at Comcast. They have been nothing less than outstanding.

Frank,

If you read this, add me to the list of Beta Testers for the digital similcast.

Thanks

I too would be interested (possibly) in the beta testing. I love that "new cable" smell... ;)

But on another note, my wife is completely fed up with the eccentricities of the SA8300. She really wants her Tivo back. So we are beginning to look into getting DirecTV activated again. This would be fine by me since I can pretty much get all of the locals (SD & HD) off air. The only channels that I watch in HD that I would miss are DiscoveryHD, BravesHD and ESPNHD, and honestly I can deal without those for the sanity and sanctity of my marriage.

But I would love it if there was some deal with Comcast where I could set it up to ONLY get the HD channels. I don't suppose there is an option for this? I am not holding my breath, so I will not be broken hearted if I can't work it out.

And according to the CSR at DirecTV I spoke with tonight, they are planning on unleashing about 150 new NATIONAL HD channels by the end of 2006...not just HD LIL, but truly NATIONAL feeds. If this is true, that would certainly put Voom's former lineup to shame. Plus, if you buy a current model HD Tivo unit (MPEG2), they will be doing a free upgrade to the new HD Tivo unit (MPEG4) when they roll them out. I would prefer to pay $300-500 for a current model than wait to pay $700+ again for a new version.

Of course that is all speculation until I see it in action and in print. Just thought I would share...

anyone know what this is?? Looks like an o-scope or something but i can't read antying on it!

Channel 95 on the line up is an internal channel. You will not receive video or audio on it.

WCIV-DT Missing In Action?

No signal here tonight via TWC channel 815. You OTA viewers getting anything?

Mike

ATP 1313 Direct TV can put up all the HD network they want, but till they change the law we can not get it

WCIV-DT Missing In Action?

No signal here tonight via TWC channel 815. You OTA viewers getting anything?

Mike

5.1 was missing when I got home, and then shortly after it was up 4.1 went silent.

I checked the DTV applications on the FCC website (go to the DTV pages, and do a 'TV Query'; the info is under 'Applications'). Each station had to submit a DTV channel election form by 2/5/05 stating which channel number they intend to use after the transition. Surprisingly, most intend to stay with their current digital assignment:


WCBD analog 2, DTV 50, elected 50
WCIV analog 4, DTV 34, elected 34
WCSC analog 4, DTV 47, elected 47
WITV analog 7, DTV 49, elected 7
WTAT analog 24, DTV 40, elected 24
WMMP analog 36, DTV 35, elected 36


I expected most would want to preserve their marketing investment in their current channel numbers. Perhaps they interpret the timeframes in the application to mean that they have to switch off the analog on that date (~8/06), so figured they would still have to operate their analog channels together with the DTV at that time?

There's a related set of applications which talk about intent to operate replicated or maximized facilities at that point, but I didn't quite understand those.
-JFS


Hello, my name is Trip. I live in south-central Virginia, but I like reading some of these other threads from time to time. Let me help you clear this up.

First of all, most stations will elect to stay put on their current digitals simply because they've already invested in the equipment. Since they will be allowed to re-map back to their analog even after the transition is over (WCBD is on 50, but maps to 2-1), it doesn't make any difference.

I am not at all surprised that WCBD chose 50, WCIV chose 34, and WCSC chose 47. I know from experience that digitals on 2-6 absolutely suck. I have my local PBS on channel 3 digitally, and this morning for the first time in a month it was watchable. What with the electrical noise and all kinds of other interference, it's extremely difficult to receive. I'm saddened that my PBS chose to remain on channel 3, but thankfully many other people have stations such as yours who have made the correct choice.

The surprising part of this is WTAT and WMMP. Sinclair made their decision based on which frequency will give them the best coverage. In Greensboro, this meant they stayed on their digitals, while in Raleigh they opted to abandon both the analog and digital of one of their stations in favor of using both the analog and the digital of the other. I assume that WTAT and WMMP can get better coverage on 24 and 36, and therefore moved back. I will say this though, when I DX and get signals from the Fayetteville/Lumberton area, WTAT always comes along with them, usually without the closer-by Florence stations. Not sure why WTAT and none of the other Charleston stations, but it's pretty interesting. (In fact, while WTAT is a relatively frequent catch, I have NEVER received any of the other Charleston stations)

As far as the pre-election certification that you didn't understand, that basically means that the stations had to choose which FCC record indicated how much coverage the station wanted on their final election. For example, if WCSC had an STA for 300 kW, a License for 600 kW, and a construction permit for 1000 kW, they would only be telling the FCC which one they intended to keep so that when they made their election, they would be given the equivalent amount of interference protection. That means that if they changed channels they would get equal protection (although with maybe a different power level) or if they stayed on their channel that other stations wouldn't be allowed to get too close.

Hope that clears it all up for you. If you have any more questions, I'll be happy to answer them.

- Trip

Anyone in here ever have their television calibrated? If so, who did the calibrating?

Anyone in here ever have their television calibrated? If so, who did the calibrating?

Sorry Shuttermaker. I noticed a few messages ago you might be having Eliab coming. I have followed their posts for about 2 years now at "The Spot".


Maybe those boys will know someone close as the crow flies, but I can't recall anyone having a tour near us.

May I ask, are you looking for a full cal ( all inputs, scan rate, geometry, etc) ?



(Had to go with a new screen name, heck of a time posting. Kinda catchy, uh?)

Does anyone know when Charleston may be getting the new Comcast IPG? Just got the HD DVR and went on the website and it read that it was coming soon.

For the next few months, DirecTV is offering their HD-Tivo unit for $299 with a $100 rebate. From what I can tell, there is no restriction as to new or existing customers. We are having ours installed tomorrow afternoon. Granted, there is a 2-year commitment to DirecTV and a 1-year commitment to their HD Package, but still, the price is unbeatable. The HD-Tivo retails for about $650!! And you can get one for only $199 after rebate!?!?! Too good to pass up...then of course, when they rollover to MPEG4, and the current MPEG2's are out-of-date, they are suggesting that users can swap out for free to get the MPEG4's.

Just thought I would share the info...
:)

Sorry Shuttermaker. I noticed a few messages ago you might be having Eliab coming. I have followed their posts for about 2 years now at "The Spot".


Maybe those boys will know someone close as the crow flies, but I can't recall anyone having a tour near us.

May I ask, are you looking for a full cal ( all inputs, scan rate, geometry, etc) ?



(Had to go with a new screen name, heck of a time posting. Kinda catchy, uh?)

Actually, it was a no go with Eliab. There wasn't enough interest locally to make it worth his while to come to the Charleston area.

I have been speaking with someone from a local company(Goose Creek). They offer a calibration service. Id like to get some references and speak more to them about what procedures they perform when calibrating.

Can anybody tell me what the big questions I should be asking before I have them do the work?

Ask them definitely, if they have experience with YOUR particular set. No doubt about that one.

Ask them if they provide a detailed " before and after" report. You'll want to know this for future reference and for any changes made in the service menu, just in case you might have to call them out again one day.

For a detailed cal, you'll be looking for grayscale correction (480i, 480p, 1080i), setting the color decoder, convergence, etc. and cal'ing for each input and resolution ( contrast, brightness, color, sharpness, etc).

Ask what type of equipment they'll use. Colorimeters, spectrometers, pattern generators is what you should hear. You won't want a calibrator bringing his own dvd player to the show, for God's sake.

And certainly ask them to provide references. It's your baby. And there is nothing like living with a bad haircut. You'll want it right.

Diana, I have a couple of question which came to mind while I was scrolling through the channels this morning:

1. it has been a while since we have seen new HD programing on TWC; any insight as to when we might see something new? Local or Cable?

2. Is there any way your folks can group the HD channels together the next time they realign the channels? I am tired of flipping through the on demand stuff to get to HD channels buried in the middle. Of course if we switched to a different type of box, that could be overcome by custom menus, but doubt that would happen soon (like the box dish uses...Moto?)

Anyway, just curious:)

Diana, I have a couple of question which came to mind while I was scrolling through the channels this morning:

2. Is there any way your folks can group the HD channels together the next time they realign the channels? I am tired of flipping through the on demand stuff to get to HD channels buried in the middle. Of course if we switched to a different type of box, that could be overcome by custom menus, but doubt that would happen soon (like the box dish uses...Moto?)

Anyway, just curious:)


I agree, the On Demand stuff in the middle seems really out of place. My guess is that its there to try and generate some traffic. The only On Demand channel I pay any attention to is AOL Music On Demand. Sad thing is, they do a poor job of rotating in new videos...i think less than once a month.

Ask them definitely, if they have experience with YOUR particular set. No doubt about that one.

Ask them if they provide a detailed " before and after" report. You'll want to know this for future reference and for any changes made in the service menu, just in case you might have to call them out again one day.

For a detailed cal, you'll be looking for grayscale correction (480i, 480p, 1080i), setting the color decoder, convergence, etc. and cal'ing for each input and resolution ( contrast, brightness, color, sharpness, etc).

Ask what type of equipment they'll use. Colorimeters, spectrometers, pattern generators is what you should hear. You won't want a calibrator bringing his own dvd player to the show, for God's sake.

And certainly ask them to provide references. It's your baby. And there is nothing like living with a bad haircut. You'll want it right.

Those are exactly the type of questions I was looking for, thanks for the advice. Im supposed to call them back Monday or Tuesday and schedule something for the end of that week.

My fiancee will have a cow if she finds out I spent a nice chunk of money to get this set calibrated and there is no visible difference. :(

I should have put this in my first post, sorry. Have you considered a tune up disc like Avia or Video Essentials? For around $40 or so, it can dramatically improve your picture with just the "user" controls. Unless your seeing convergence problems or a really bad grayscale, it's an inexpensive way to check things out for yourself.

For the next few months, DirecTV is offering their HD-Tivo unit for $299 with a $100 rebate. From what I can tell, there is no restriction as to new or existing customers. We are having ours installed tomorrow afternoon. Granted, there is a 2-year commitment to DirecTV and a 1-year commitment to their HD Package, but still, the price is unbeatable. The HD-Tivo retails for about $650!! And you can get one for only $199 after rebate!?!?! Too good to pass up...then of course, when they rollover to MPEG4, and the current MPEG2's are out-of-date, they are suggesting that users can swap out for free to get the MPEG4's.

Just thought I would share the info...
:)
Where did you see this price? I thought the price was down to $499 with all applicable rebates.

I am tired of flipping through the on demand stuff to get to HD channels
Set the Favorites button to them.

I should have put this in my first post, sorry. Have you considered a tune up disc like Avia or Video Essentials? For around $40 or so, it can dramatically improve your picture with just the "user" controls. Unless your seeing convergence problems or a really bad grayscale, it's an inexpensive way to check things out for yourself.


I actually have DVE and Avia..bought them as a set from Amazon.com for 36 bucks.
My main concern with both of these discs was, are they beneficial to DLP claibration? I dont believe DLP was even an option at the time these 2 discs were produced.

They did make a difference however, I guess im hoping to get an even better picture thru a professional calibration.

I agree, the On Demand stuff in the middle seems really out of place. My guess is that its there to try and generate some traffic. The only On Demand channel I pay any attention to is AOL Music On Demand. Sad thing is, they do a poor job of rotating in new videos...i think less than once a month.

Here is the network neighborhood logic: (and I realize they don't all extend for 100 places each, but the sections are named this way to provide for future growth)

2 - 99 - Analog services
100 - 199 - Digital Tiers (4 separate tiers)
200 - 299 - Premium Channels
300 - 399 - Commercial Free Music Channels
400 - 599 - Sports Tiers & Sports PPV
600 - 699 - Digital PPV
700 - 799 - future development
800 - 899 - FREE advanced technology including HDTV and On Demand
900 - 999 / 1 - Subscription based advanced technology including HDTV and On Demand

Remember:
(1) Not all HDTV owners subscribe to Premium or the HD Tier
(2) There are bonus Digital Channels multiplexed from the Broadcast HD Networks

This means that the vast majority of our Digital Customer base has the optimal "800" neighborhood of all Free Services.

Bottom line - we aren't planning on changing the neighborhood.

Diana, I have a couple of question which came to mind while I was scrolling through the channels this morning:

1. it has been a while since we have seen new HD programing on TWC; any insight as to when we might see something new? Local or Cable?

2. Is there any way your folks can group the HD channels together the next time they realign the channels? I am tired of flipping through the on demand stuff to get to HD channels buried in the middle. Of course if we switched to a different type of box, that could be overcome by custom menus, but doubt that would happen soon (like the box dish uses...Moto?)

Anyway, just curious:)


Can you tell I was reading pages backwards....


Anyway, now to address question (1) - no

They really don't tell us the status of contracts until they are done - really - truly - I don't hold out on anyone AND most important, as soon as the deal is done we bust our hind ends to put it on the air....

To speculate is simply a waste of energy - I have been in this business way to long and have seen "the contract is just about done" go on for years, while at the same time, something they tell us isn't going well, gets signed later that week.

Its just not over until the fat lady sings

...This means that the vast majority of our Digital Customer base has the optimal "800" neighborhood of all Free Services.

Bottom line - we aren't planning on changing the neighborhood....

But I think the point was to pull the VOD stuff from the middle of the 800 range and put it at one end or the other (lets say from 800-850), so if you scroll up or down all the HD channels are in a contiguous block. You would still keep the 800 series and 900 series otherwise intact per your "neighborhood" plan.

And Gary is right-the "favorites" button is your friend. Don't know how many you can stack under it but I have all mt HD channels, and ONLY my HD channels, in queue there.

Actually it is isolated on an end, but the upper end:

800 - 848 is Free HD and Digital Bonus Channels
849 - 899 is Free On Demand

900 - 950 ish is Subscription based HD
951 - 999 / 1 is Subscription and PPV based On Demand