Just ordered the dual tuner DVR, to be installed Monday afternoon. The guy knew exactly what I was talking about. I am getting slapped with a $15.99 install fee, unfortunately.

Originally posted by avic
ATTENTION COMCAST: I know Comcast employees frequently browse this and other threads and I also know you've been prohibited from representing the company. This newer policy is not working. Why not eliminate the rampant misinformation which gives the company more of a bad name? It would make good sense to appoint an On-line/Forum rep who can provide and control the info rather than sit back and watch the rumors and speculation snowball. The latter and current policy has caused more aggravation to customers and employees alike. Cox Cable has taken the wiser road allowing engineers/reps to post and it helps keep the Cox threads well-informed and less frustrating. So as it looks to me, we'd all benefit from this and hope you reconsider. Please pass along to your superiors.

I'm surprised no one on here has shown their support for such a common-sense approach. Unfortunately common sense and logic are not oft-used words in corporate America. What better way to talk to your leading/bleeding edge customers than on an interactive forum.

Looking for my next bill's filler advertising new single-tuner DVRs :)

Originally posted by jckessler
Just ordered the dual tuner DVR, to be installed Monday afternoon. The guy knew exactly what I was talking about. I am getting slapped with a $15.99 install fee, unfortunately.

If you already have a single tuner DVR tell them you are already paid the install fee for first one and this is a swap.
They will remove the install fee as they did in my case.

:)

Originally posted by scorpion74
If you already have a single tuner DVR tell them you are already paid the install fee for first one and this is a swap.
They will remove the install fee as they did in my case.

:)

I'm upgrading from a 5100, so that excuse wouldn't have worked. I probably could've fought it, but I am just happy to be getting the hardware.

Originally posted by avic
one has the pip/swap buttons, the other doesn't. u only need the swap button right now since pip is not active yet. if they show up with the same one go to the 6412 thread for fun with mapping. btw i hear that pip will be activated with an iGuide upgrade not too long from now so eventually you will want to swap your remote. there should be plenty available by the time that happens.

Great thread, lots learned, thanks Avic. I am ready for the 6412. I hope my 6412 comes with the new remote with the swap buttons so I can have my Harmony learn the command. I believe I read that you also have a Harmony. Question, these codes for swap, 30 second skip and mute referenced in the thread - Are these codes that I can enter into my Harmony page that will be recognized?? Just preparing for the worst, a remote without swap.

Thanks again,
Joe

Originally posted by Kaiser-Soze
I'm surprised no one on here has shown their support for such a common-sense approach. Unfortunately common sense and logic are not oft-used words in corporate America. What better way to talk to your leading/bleeding edge customers than on an interactive forum.The problem is the right people aren't the ones viewing this thread. At least not the ones who can make those kind of decisions.

The policy now of "we'll schedule an apt but there's no guarantee you'll get the 6412" is a poor one. They would save money and resources if they would just let the customer know what they're getting up-front.

I'm going to hold out a bit longer to make sure I get what I want. No need to have the tech here more than once.

In the meantime no iGuide yet here in Natick/Fram area.

I got my 6208s swapped for 6412s. One of them constantly reboots after remote keypresses, like "dozens" above said. I don't know if it's hardware for firmware though.

To all 6412 users, a question:

I figured I'd ask here as well as the 6412/Comcast iGuide thread.

I've created two series recordings, one for Seinfeld and the other for the Simpsons. For both, I told it to record all episodes on all channels and save them until I delete them.

For Seinfeld, it is recording all episodes on Fox and TBS. For Fox episodes that are both on FOX SD and FOX HD, it records both. So, I've been canceling the SD recording in the DVR section (no need for two recordings of the same episode).

I've set the Simpsons to record the same way: all channels, all episodes, etc. However, I noticed in the DVR schedule, it is only showing as recording the FOX SD episode, *not* the FOX HD episode. This is happenening even though the FOX HD episode does not conflict with anything else.

Does anyone have any idea why this might be happenning?

Thanks!

iGuide has shown up in Haverhill/Bradford.

FYI if you have a DCT2224 STB and a Replay DVR your Ir Blaster setting will need to be changed... See this link (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=471461) for help in fixing it...

--K

Originally posted by avic
last i heard they were talking to HDnet but still they could add WB today if they wanted. doesn't seem a priority right now. ONdemand, iGuide, and DVR are stealing the show.

I heard that Boston (our area) would be a go but HDNet is holding out for a NATIONAL DEAL.

Has anyone else noticed that the NFL channel is in two places: Channel 265 and also 715, at least here in Chelmsford ?

I noticed that as well, and I'm receiving the History Channel en español as well on 716. I'd guess that the 715 version is a Spanish one.

I've noticed that after I got the Iguide, there are times when the box will not respond to the remote. If you cycle the box it seems to fix it or has for me anyway. Just an observation...

Originally posted by avic
one has the pip/swap buttons, the other doesn't. u only need the swap button right now since pip is not active yet. if they show up with the same one go to the 6412 thread for fun with mapping. btw i hear that pip will be activated with an iGuide upgrade not too long from now so eventually you will want to swap your remote. there should be plenty available by the time that happens.

I was under the impression the remote isn't even emitting an IR code when the PIP buttons (except Swap) were pressed. Does that just mean the remote will need to be programmed to activate the PIP buttons when the feature becomes available?

Originally posted by Tsunamii
I've noticed that after I got the Iguide, there are times when the box will not respond to the remote. If you cycle the box it seems to fix it or has for me anyway. Just an observation...

I've had the same problemwith my 6200 STB, it's intermittent, there are times it seems to "freeze up", several seconds will pass before it responds to your last command.

NFL Channel is just mapped to two numbers, no extra bandwidth used.

I have noticed Nick2 has shown up, which is just the west coast feed. IMO that is a waste of bandwidth.

same in boston, tvland is incorrectly mapped twice to a second channel (81) not even in the official lineup. as far as bandwitdh i think we all have our list of what is a waste and it varies wildly by customer. imo anything not in the 800 block is a waste. ;)

With DVR service there is no need to offer the delayed West Coast feed. They're probably losing DVR customers by doing this.

Are people just calling the main number (800-comcast I think) to get the 6412 installed? Or is there some local number that will give me better odds of getting the 6412 if I schedule an appointment.

thanks
Jon

I called 800-266-2278 yesterday afternoon and had it installed this morning by 9 am.

Giddyup.

Just an FYI - last night I noticed the iGuide showed up on my old 5200 (?) box as well. No preview of the program currently on the screen like the 6412 though.

Originally posted by jonchilds
Are people just calling the main number (800-comcast I think) to get the 6412 installed? Or is there some local number that will give me better odds of getting the 6412 if I schedule an appointment.

thanks
Jon

I called 800-comcast, they installed it this morning (I'm in Bellingham, MA)

It seems to me that there is no good reason why WB and UPN are not on HD yet, is there some licensing agreement that I don't know about ?

-Ken

as you've noticed the iGuide upgrades resumed after some glitches were worked out. the older boxes do not support program preview.

Originally posted by kenvt
It seems to me that there is no good reason why WB and UPN are not on HD yet, is there some licensing agreement that I don't know about ?

-Ken Just a little more patience...the year's not over with yet. ;)

Originally posted by jonchilds
Are people just calling the main number (800-comcast I think) to get the 6412 installed? Or is there some local number that will give me better odds of getting the 6412 if I schedule an appointment.

thanks
Jon

I called the 800 number.... Persistence is the key... It took me about 10 calls over a couple of weeks to get someone to schedule the appt.....

--K

Hey, maybe they are reading this thread. I just called and had no problems. The CSR knew of the dual tuner version, told me I needed an appt and there would be no charge since I was upgrading. Not getting it until next Friday, but I think I can manage until then. ;)

Hi All,

Called the 800 number today to ask about the 6412. Got lucky, they had them and got an appointment for Sat - lucky again I guess.

Will post later about how the unit works.

Originally posted by avic
Just a little more patience...the year's not over with yet. ;)

Avic, That would be a grat Xmas present. Id love to see Enterprise in HD before the seasons over.

Originally posted by storm
Hi All,

Called the 800 number today to ask about the 6412. Got lucky, they had them and got an appointment for Sat - lucky again I guess.

Will post later about how the unit works. when u get it please post your 2 cents about the 6412 HERE (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=464986&perpage=20&pagenumber=16)

Originally posted by tennberg
To all 6412 users, a question:

I figured I'd ask here as well as the 6412/Comcast iGuide thread.

I've created two series recordings, one for Seinfeld and the other for the Simpsons. For both, I told it to record all episodes on all channels and save them until I delete them.

For Seinfeld, it is recording all episodes on Fox and TBS. For Fox episodes that are both on FOX SD and FOX HD, it records both. So, I've been canceling the SD recording in the DVR section (no need for two recordings of the same episode).

I've set the Simpsons to record the same way: all channels, all episodes, etc. However, I noticed in the DVR schedule, it is only showing as recording the FOX SD episode, *not* the FOX HD episode. This is happenening even though the FOX HD episode does not conflict with anything else.

Does anyone have any idea why this might be happenning?

Thanks!


Maybe you already have two programs set to record at that time (including all SD/HD versions of the same programs) and since 825 is higher than 013 (or whatever the SD version of FOX is) it can't fit the 825 version?

Originally posted by Chris Beveridge
About an hour away from my install, the techs called and said they haven't received any of the 6412's out here yet and no idea when they will. Joy. Looks like it hasn't moved too far past the Route 495 line.

I'm past 495 and I have one :)

It looks like the Celtics game is blacked out or something on 882 tonight. It's listed but I get the nasty frozen screen when I try to tune in...

Probably another local sports team with HD broadcast capability that we lose on Friday night home games.


Wah.

I'm getting the same thing. I dont think it should be a BO problem. I was hoping for some updates here

Same problem here... glad it's not just isolated to me or my town... but this is my first chance to watch the Celts in HD this year and it's not working...

EDIT : Worked for about 1 minute just now, but as I'm typing this froze up again.

EDIT 2 : Working again... hope it lasts.

I'm getting it. It looks terrible. Lots of macroblocking and some edge enhancement thing that has problems with the tiled floor.

Working for me now too.

Definitely not like NESN broadcasts but WAY better that the FSN SD broadcasts we had last year...

Originally posted by chitchatjf
I'm past 495 and I have one :)

You're not in the worcester county zone though :)

Anyone in the South Shore or Cape area get one yet?

I'm in Easton and got mine yesterday.I havn't had a lot of time to play with it yet but I really like the new I Guide.Definitely an upgrade.

Lasts nights problems with the Celtics games were caused by a feed problem from Fox Sports. Lets hope it doesn't happen again on Sunday.,

Hi,
I am not sure this is the right area to be posting but...
Has anyone compared the picture quality of HD from Comcast to that of RCN. I currently have RCN and while baseball on NESN is great, i have not been that impressed with the quality of the other stations, especially the movie stations (HBOHD, MAXHD, and HDMV).

Also, I see a lot of posts about the 6412 STB. I have a 6208. How much more HD recording time is on the 6412?

thanks
Ian

Ian:

As I've only seen Comcast's HD broadcasts, I can only comment on those.

NESN in HD was nothing short of amazing. I've found programming on INHD, INHD2, and Discovery HD Theater to be up to that level as well. Sharp, defined, vibrant colors, that "lifelike" quality HD promised us.

HBO, Cinemax, and Starz HD, for me, all depends on what they're showing in HD. Some of it is great, especially if the source material was already of a high quality. Other movies tend to be "so-so".

I've found FOX HD to be a bit lacking, most notabely, from what I've seen, The OC and football programming. I was watching briefly NASCAR on NBC HD and did not find it at all impressive. I'm not sure if it was a 480i or 480p feed, but it certainly didn't seem 720p or 1080i to me. I found the PQ of Joey on NBC to be good, but other shows to be okay.

Lost on ABC, I think, is great for PQ, as is Desperate Housewives, but other ABC shows were so-so. I've found any HD show on CBS to be "soft" and lacking the "oomph" and 'wow" that HD on other channels can bring.

Granted, some of the shows that I don't find great in PQ may be the result of the director wanting it to be viewed that way.

Originally posted by Chris Beveridge
You're not in the worcester county zone though :)

True!

It worked fine Friday night,recording BOTH JOA AND Enterprise.

Originally posted by IanK
How much more HD recording time is on the 6412?

6412 has a 120 GB hdd and holds approx 90 hours of standard digital TV and 12–20 hours of HDTV. 6208 had 80 GB.

I called Thursday, got a Saturday appointement in Marblehead (Friday was available, but I was not) and did get my 6412 installed (3-5 minutes). Comcast was THREE HOURS late (They showed up at 6:00 for a 1:00-3:00 appointment) and the guys didn't say a thing about it, but at least it's done. And I got the new remote. Even after letting it sit 12 hours I still am missing quite a bit of guide data, but I'm not concerned.

IMO, the reason INHD, NESN, Discovery look so much better is they are typically showing material that is HD video as opposed to a film that has been transferred to HD. Video HD has more "pop" and stands out compared to non-HD video material moreso than film does.

As for Fox, I do find their HD football coverage noticably worse than ESPN or CBS.

INHD would look even better if they stopped displaying their bug constantly. Disc-HD shows it every 30mins or so for approx 30secs.

I'm hoping Motorola starts supporting external harrddrives soon.

Anyone in the South Shore or Cape area get one yet?

Have one scheduled for install Tuesday. Sure hope it's better than the 6208 I have now.

Stan

I just noticed earlier today a local ad on a digital channel.

It was an ad promoting comcast's DVR on the Oxygen channel.

What does this have to do with HD?

Since it seems they can put local ads on digital channels,they could concevably make ALL EXpanded basic channels digital on;ly freeing bandwidth for more HD!

For those who do not have a box,I say TOO BAD!

Originally posted by chitchatjf
For those who do not have a box,I say TOO BAD! what are you, a 12yearold? :rolleyes:

I was all set to watch Bob Jovi live on INHD2 this evening but apparently instead we have Boston NBA game on INHD2 and another Knicks game on INHD1.
Did anyone catch this program? Titan says next airing 11/22 at 12:00AM

Watching the end of the Celtics game now, picture looks good, but the audio is off, they have all 5 channels with the same audio. A little distracting to hear the announcers right in your ear. ;)

Originally posted by Panther61
I was all set to watch Bob Jovi live on INHD2 this evening but apparently instead we have Boston NBA game on INHD2 and another Knicks game on INHD1.
Did anyone catch this program? Titan says next airing 11/22 at 12:00AM

That's midnight. Just watch that concert then.

Originally posted by chitchatjf

For those who do not have a box,I say TOO BAD!

Comcast knows that if they start charing $5/mo for every TV and require everyone use cable boxes even on their kitchen and bedroom TVs, they're going to anger a lot of customers, and make DBS much more appealing.

Comcast won't make the change to digital only until they can address these issues adequately.

Concert is on now, after the Celts. Nice chicks too. I have the volume turned up on my receiver to "max". First time I had ever to do it.

Originally posted by jckessler
Comcast knows that if they start charing $5/mo for every TV and require everyone use cable boxes even on their kitchen and bedroom TVs, they're going to anger a lot of customers, and make DBS much more appealing.

Comcast won't make the change to digital only until they can address these issues adequately.

DBS also requires boxes on every set.
My idea would keep broadcast basic on standard analog.
The extended basic digital channels would be transmitted in the clear and those with an ATSC box would be able to get them :)

perhaps a chaper box with no program guide no access to PPV but still the ability to get those channels.

perhaps make the first box FREE?

See this thread :

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=471182&highlight=Fellows+comcast

Comcast is going to duplicate all the analog channels in digital. May explain why bandwidth is a problem ! According to this article, bandwidth has already been cleared in every market to make this happen !!

-Ken

aggressive implementation, may happen quite soon here. UPN and the handful of analogs left will have significant PQ improvement.

Still no iGuide here in Salem MA (I still have the DCT5100)...Comcast told me on 19Nov that remaining roll outs are delayed pending a bug fix, though it looks like other avsforum members are still being connected. Comcast seems to have trouble communicating between themselves. Is anyone on the North Shore getting the new iGuide on their 5100?

shmee, your info is correct, no iGuide here in Natick/Framingham either. You got that from a CSR eh? Will wonders never cease?;)

Still no iGuide on my 5100 in Middleboro either...

I hope the bug in iGuide is the menu freeze. Last night it was unbearable as the menu would lockup/freeze every other time I would go to browse upcoming shows/hours.

-Ken

Got my 6412 Friday. I have had absolutely zero pixelation problems all weekend with the new box, whereas with the 6208, I could not make it through a complete show no matter what.

shmee1:

I've had iGuide on my 5100 for a couple of weeks in Middleton. 6208 swapped-out last week for 6412.

A question for those of you with the DCT5100- are any of you using the DVI output for connecting to your tv? I tried it this weekend (Samsung TXN3098), and while the DVI works fine on the HD channels (a bit reddish over component), on all other channels, analog and digital, the picture quickly scrambles and goes blank. Returning to an HD channel brings the pic back. I'm new to DVI, and so far cannot figure out if the issue is with the tv or the STB. Anyone with 5100/DVI experience? Component hookup delivers fine across all channels.
Thanks.

Boy, I like the simulcast idea.

On the one hand, my TiVos and ReplayTVs that record analog directly off-cable still work. On the other hand, the ones that use the cable box get much improved reception on the previously-analog-only channels.

Nice.

Originally posted by shmee1
A question for those of you with the DCT5100- are any of you using the DVI output for connecting to your tv? I tried it this weekend (Samsung TXN3098), and while the DVI works fine on the HD channels (a bit reddish over component), on all other channels, analog and digital, the picture quickly scrambles and goes blank. Returning to an HD channel brings the pic back. I'm new to DVI, and so far cannot figure out if the issue is with the tv or the STB. Anyone with 5100/DVI experience? Component hookup delivers fine across all channels.
Thanks. The only thing that I can think of is that your "480i override" is set to 720p which your TV does not support (besides some other bizarre firmware or TV issue).

larry

Originally posted by shmee1
A question for those of you with the DCT5100- are any of you using the DVI output for connecting to your tv? I tried it this weekend (Samsung TXN3098), and while the DVI works fine on the HD channels (a bit reddish over component), on all other channels, analog and digital, the picture quickly scrambles and goes blank. Returning to an HD channel brings the pic back. I'm new to DVI, and so far cannot figure out if the issue is with the tv or the STB. Anyone with 5100/DVI experience? Component hookup delivers fine across all channels.
Thanks.

Set 4:3 override options on the 5100 to 480p.

for most of the tv's DVI don't work with 480i signals.

On Friday night, my wife and I decide to splurge and order Envy HD On Demand. Well, the movie started and all sound came out of the Left Surround and Right Main speakers. It was very annoying and unwatchable to say the least.

My receiver showed 5 channels being present (no LFE), but it seemed like the audio mappings were messed up and/or my receiver couldn't handle it. This is the first time that I've had a problem with 5.1 broadcasts on Comcast.

I called tech support and connected with no hold time. The tech was very helpful and knowledgeable and seemed to know what was going on. He had my try another HD PPV, a 5.1 non-HD PPV, and a regular 5.1 non PPV channel. In the end, he said he'd send a note to engineering to say that the movie appeared messed up.

Did any other AVS'ers try to view Envy HD PPV and have good/bad luck?

Has anyone else had their 6412 crash/reboot every few remote keypresses? I am using the DVI port and maybe it's only happening to that configuration.

I'm getting ready to return it, but if it's endemic to the 6412 no point in exchanging it.

Got my 6412 today. Everything good, regular harddrive noise, a bit of pixelation on the HD channels- seems to be buffering. Have to watch that.

Firmware 9.12
S/W Ver- 71.44.1203

Originally posted by kenvt
I hope the bug in iGuide is the menu freeze. Last night it was unbearable as the menu would lockup/freeze every other time I would go to browse upcoming shows/hours.

-Ken

I've been having the same problem for the past few days since the new Iguide was installed on my 6200 (which BTW is a significant improvement over the old guide). Although it does not happen every time, it happens enough to be annoying, especially when it takes the STB 10 - 15 seconds to respond to channel change or menu options. I called Comcast couple of times and they "reset" the software but it didn't solve the problem. I hope other customer with similar freeze experience are calling Comcast to let them know it may not be an isolated incident.

Has anyone in New Hampshire gotten a 6412 yet?

Thanks.

I'm in Nashua and I got one last week. First time I called Comcast they had no idea what I was talking about. So I called back in 15 minutues and was able to schedule a delivery the next morning :-)

Originally posted by ashridharani
I've been having the same problem for the past few days since the new Iguide was installed on my 6200 (which BTW is a significant improvement over the old guide). Although it does not happen every time, it happens enough to be annoying, especially when it takes the STB 10 - 15 seconds to respond to channel change or menu options. I called Comcast couple of times and they "reset" the software but it didn't solve the problem. I hope other customer with similar freeze experience are calling Comcast to let them know it may not be an isolated incident.

Ive also got the menu freeze also but its only a few times a day.

I got mine delivered on Saturday. I only had to call once, but the CSR was at first doubtful that they were available yet. I told her that I knew that others in my general area were getting them, and after consulting with someone else, she booked my appt. I've had no problems with it so far.
-Eric

Hi, does anybody know when the new guide will be programmed into the Moto 5100 cable boxes? Also, does not look like any new HD channels until '05.

mgpt6-
iGuide rollout to the 5100s is on hold pending a bug fix. Comcast would not give a date for the fix to be complete. Looks like the only way to get the iGuide right now is to upgrade to the 6208 or 6412; I'm in the same boat as you.

Originally posted by shmee1
mgpt6-
iGuide rollout to the 5100s is on hold pending a bug fix. Comcast would not give a date for the fix to be complete. Looks like the only way to get the iGuide right now is to upgrade to the 6208 or 6412; I'm in the same boat as you.


Thats not quite right. The iGuide rollout was suspended for Southern and Western MA due to a bug that was resolved. However, with the holidays upon us, they have likely pushed out the rest of the iGuide rollout till early December or Early January after the holidays are over with. All boxes EXCEPT the 6208 are getting the iGuide eventually. Eventually even the 6208 once they work out whatever bug they found.

Rate increase coming Jan 1st. Some new charges as well like:

Digital On-Screen Guide, Digital Access? Our bills should be like 10% higher come Jan 1st.

Originally posted by mgpt6
Also, does not look like any new HD channels until '05. Which is only a month away so 'next year' shouldn't sound as bad anymore. 2005 will truly be an exciting year for Comcast customers, additional HD is just one of the planned significant improvements to our cabletv experience. the modest rate increase will be well worth it.

I wouldn't call 10% negligible.

As for IGuide - I have a 2000, 5100 and 6208. So far, everything's upgraded to something new but the 6208.

Originally posted by DaveFi
Rate increase coming Jan 1st. Some new charges as well like:

Digital On-Screen Guide, Digital Access? Our bills should be like 10% higher come Jan 1st.

Mine looks like around $7 to 9.

So much for my idea of getting a third box or 4 mb speed tier

no new HD channels :(

QVC offically going to broadcast basic and We moving from 66 to 215.

Well, I got a bad 6412 installed this Saturday. Definitely a power relay thing where the box reboots fairly frequently upon clicking around the menu or even changing channels.

This was a bummer, but I got an appointment for today and must have called 5 times between Saturday and Monday to make sure "they bring a 6412 dual tuner box". Response, "yes, Mr. Z, I have noted this on the work order, but we can not guarrentee equipment". I say "I don't understand how I can make an appointment for a specific piece of equipment and have it installed, but on the service side, you can't come through for me?", "Yes, this is our policy".

So today they come without a 6412. Argghh. I refuse the 6208 and get on the phone to my latest friendly Comcast robot. She tells me that the dual tuner boxes are in very limited supply and they will do their best to find me one. I say bull, you have a warehouse full of them. I hang out on a very inside track internet site and I know more than you and I know things weeks before you do!

At this point, I realized I sounded like an idiot. My wife told me to get a life as she has never encountered someone so geeky that knows cable box model numbers and has an "inside track".

Time to get rid of the wife and maybe get two dual tuners??:)

Anyway, Comcast apologized and said they are coming tomorrow with the right equipment.

Originally posted by Tsunamii
Ive also got the menu freeze also but its only a few times a day.

Tsunamii,

I've not seen more than couple of posts about the freeze. I wonder if it is hardware related...What kind of STB do you have. I've got 6200.

Originally posted by ScoopsHD
Thats not quite right. The iGuide rollout was suspended for Southern and Western MA due to a bug that was resolved. However, with the holidays upon us, they have likely pushed out the rest of the iGuide rollout till early December or Early January after the holidays are over with. All boxes EXCEPT the 6208 are getting the iGuide eventually. Eventually even the 6208 once they work out whatever bug they found.

Just reporting what a Comcast CSR told me on 19Nov- all rollouts on hold, and I'm in NE MA. It doesn't make sense that they would not resume rollout just because of the holidays, especially when more than 50% of the customers already have it.
Regardless, hope to see it soon.

ashridharani, I still have the old non DVR box. This has been happening only since the IGuide. I feel pretty comfortable that its the software or firmware. Freeze doesn't qualify it completely, more like lag. The system seems to be processing something else with a higher priority then it kicks in and runs the last command you issued.
For the time being its just a nusiance, ill eventualy get the new Dual DVR anyway.
Im still waiting for new HD content though but the Year isnt over yet.

Originally posted by avic
2005 will truly be an exciting year for Comcast customers, additional HD is just one of the planned significant improvements to our cabletv experience. the modest rate increase will be well worth it. Frankly, I'd prefer to see additional HD and the other "significant" improvements BEFORE a rate increase. With the exception of Discovery HD (and the essentially useless OnDemand HD), I don't think any new HD channels have been added since this past June. Things like the new iGuide are nice, but heck, I don't *watch* the iGuide; I *do* want to watch more HD content, like WB, TNT, Bravo, and even my local WMUR HD.

In my book it's unrealistic to jack up the rates prior to actually providing anything new. And I wouldn't call 10% modest - who here has gotten a 10% raise in the past year? Rate increases that keep exceeding the cost of living are pretty cheesy.

Tony

Just got my 6412 :)

The guy came within the install window. Got the new remote (tho the guy initially said it was the same till I pointed out the 6 new buttons at the bottom. He only configured my receiver because I said the last guy did, but I had to do the time display, volume lock and a few other things on my own. I guess its a matter of how experienced the techs are, their workload for the day, etc... count me happy :)

Looks like today is a popular day for 6412 installs...I'm currently waiting for Comcast, but the 'window' just started. I do hope he gets here on the early side.

I'll probably have him check my levels while he is here since I've been getting a bit more blocking on recorded stuff lately.

Originally posted by jadziedzic
Frankly, I'd prefer to see additional HD and the other "significant" improvements BEFORE a rate increase. With the exception of Discovery HD (and the essentially useless OnDemand HD), I don't think any new HD channels have been added since this past June. Things like the new iGuide are nice, but heck, I don't *watch* the iGuide; I *do* want to watch more HD content, like WB, TNT, Bravo, and even my local WMUR HD.

In my book it's unrealistic to jack up the rates prior to actually providing anything new. And I wouldn't call 10% modest - who here has gotten a 10% raise in the past year? Rate increases that keep exceeding the cost of living are pretty cheesy.

Tony

Tony, I totaly agree.
Where is the new HD content? HD OnDemand Please, I don't think so. I am going to get charged for the new IGuide? I guess the box freezing is free? Sounds kinda like if Microsoft required everyone to download a new service pack then after it was all up and running they said oh by the way there is an extra charge for the service pack we made you install, we just never said anything. I already pay more for HD now another on top of that? This market needs more competition. Satellite is becoming more and more attractive. Thanks Comcast.

I'm seriously considering going back to analog cable and get my HD OTA since that is pretty much all I watch now anyway. Then I don't have to wait for comcast to add UPN and WB.

$120 /yr. for a noisy DVR ? I think not.

The way I read that article in the Globe today was that some communities, e.g. Boston, would not get as high an increase, and that those with certain cable packages (Metro package from the 80s!) would get a much higher increase.

The article also mentioned some prices would go down, and it only mentioned about a $2 increase in standard cable and a $1 increase in digital cable. The article did not mention any increase in HD cable cost or DVR rental. It even mentioned there would be a slight reduction in the cable box rental fee.

So, for an average $3 increase to cover their new DVR service, expanded OnDemand programs, and a new iGuide, I don't have that much to complain about. Granted, there hasn't been much new HD content, but according to a couple other posts, 2005 will be a big year for Comcast HD (perhaps WB, Bravo, TNT, HDNet, HDNet Movies and more?).

P.S. - Yes, the 6412 for me is quite loud, but it seems others have noted their 6412 is amazingly quiet, even with their sound muted. Some have even said they need to put their ear up to the box to hear the drive. I am going to have Comcast swap the box after the holiday to see if that resolves anything.

Just got the 6412 and no new remote. Also getting the split screen when I first turn it on, but it seems quiet. What am I missing with the new remote?
I have an MX 700 so if there are commands to be downloaded I could do that.

Thanks
JTMav

It was reported on Channel 7 news this morning that the average rate increase for Comcast customers in the greater Boston area would be about 5.8%.
-Eric

i got my 6412 today too. the guy wasn't from Comcast though, his truck said east coast cable. mine is no noiser than my 6412.

jason

JTMav,The new remote is very similar to the old one except for buttons on the bottom for swap and pip functions. The pip is not activated yet but the swap button switches between the 2 tuners.I think your gonna want that swap function.

Yes, the swap button is very good. My remote is actually the same as the 6208's except the swap is programmed into the "TV/VCR" key.

My 6412 makes a little noise but I can't hear it, even when the TV is on mute.

Rich N.

I found this link on CNet's website that lists all channels that broadcast in HD, the resolution they broadcast in, and what shows are shown in HD.

http://www.cnet.com/4520-7874_1-5119938-1.html

After watching a full episode of Jack & Bobby the other week, I'm eager to get WB HD (though the DVDs of that show may be out before Comcast brings us that channel) :-)

I found this link on CNet's website that lists all channels that broadcast in HD, the resolution they broadcast in, and what shows are shown in HD.

http://www.cnet.com/4520-7874_1-5119938-1.html

After watching a full episode of Jack & Bobby the other week, I'm eager to get WB HD (though the DVDs of that show may be out before Comcast brings us that channel) :-)

Originally posted by Kaiser-Soze
Just got my 6412 :)

The guy came within the install window. Got the new remote (tho the guy initially said it was the same till I pointed out the 6 new buttons at the bottom. He only configured my receiver because I said the last guy did, but I had to do the time display, volume lock and a few other things on my own. I guess its a matter of how experienced the techs are, their workload for the day, etc... count me happy :)

Where is volume lock? Also, does anyone know what "optimal stereo" is or does? I turn it on to "yes" and I can't get it back "no" to see the diiference.

My 6412 is very quiet, can barely hear it with everything off. My gut feel with these boxes is the moto quality control may have slipped as there seems to be a lot of issues and swaps. This is my second and thankfully all is fine, but the first had power supply issues resulting in constant reboots. Seems like this could have been easily tested at the factory.

Since the IGuide has been downloaded along with the firmware upgrade to 8.12 I have been having problems with my 6200 freezing. I originally thought I had a problem with my Sony AV3000 remote or with Mitsubishi's Netcommand, but after reading threads hear and talking to some of my friends it seems to be a firmware problem. They all say that their unit freeze in the menu section. I have seen it there and also when I just scan through the channels and it seem to happen very often for me. Anyone eles seenig the problem scaning throught the channels? I could be scanning the channels and then it would stop for maybe 15-30 seconds before it would change the channel, same with the menu if I was to scroll through the menu some of the command will be delayed by 15-30 seconds or it would just freeze.

Well, I got my 6412 yesterday. My installer comes in and says "I hope you know how to work this cause I have never seen this box" He goes on to mess up the component cables and asked what my optical cable was for.

I also had to ask him three times for the new remote which he kept saying was the same...until he finally went out to the truck and went "oh yeah"

Of all my Comcast installs this guy was the worst. But after some inital loudness the box itself doesn't seem any louder than the 6208 andI will say the upgrade dual tuner aside is worth it the UI is nice and channel switching isn't as painful.

Originally posted by LarryJoe
Where is volume lock?

Its in the remote control pamphlet opposite side of all the codes. I had to improvise some on the directions.
Press TV, Hold Setup
993 then pressed AUX in order for the volume to be changed on my receiver. This capability is what the installer of my 6208 did for me, but the 6412 was clueless on. Other than the installation experience, I'm loving this!

Hey Hey!

Long time Reader/First time Poster. Proud new owner of a Sony KDF-60XS955. My question concerns Comcast Qam - I can't seem to find NBC/CBS/Fox/ABC. I found WGBH Digital channels around 118.2
Does anyone know the channel numbers for the networks?

Thanks,

Gary

Originally posted by FAiello
Since the IGuide has been downloaded along with the firmware upgrade to 8.12 I have been having problems with my 6200 freezing. I originally thought I had a problem with my Sony AV3000 remote or with Mitsubishi's Netcommand, but after reading threads hear and talking to some of my friends it seems to be a firmware problem. They all say that their unit freeze in the menu section. I have seen it there and also when I just scan through the channels and it seem to happen very often for me. Anyone eles seenig the problem scaning throught the channels? I could be scanning the channels and then it would stop for maybe 15-30 seconds before it would change the channel, same with the menu if I was to scroll through the menu some of the command will be delayed by 15-30 seconds or it would just freeze.

Yes, I have the same problem, both in the menu as well as when scanning. Sometimes, when scanning using FAV, it will freeze, then a problem screen pops up telling me that no favorites are set, but, if I exit the screen and resume scanning with FAV, the settings are there. It also freezes for 15 or more seconds when swapping between channels using LAST. This is all new since the Iguide upgrade.

Comcast contractor came by at 9:15 with my 6412, new remote. Everything seems to be working fine, though it has the serial number reported to have the rebooting problem. Now I need to bite the bullet and program all these new buttons into Girder/NetRemote. ;)

I know a LOT of people that wish they had your problem!! :)

Scheduled for 11-1 today. Contractor called at noon, said they don't have any boxes.

Called comcast and complained about situation. Was told that boxes are coming in at a trickle. Now I have an appointment for 12/17 since that's when they think they can get them to where I am.

To make it even more fun, they messed up in dealing with my work ticket and ended up disabling my internet access.

Lovely day.

Got the 6412 in Waltham around noon today...The iGuide loaded up in probably 15 mins..

No issues with the volume...the whine does seem high pitched compared to 6208

The installer did not have the new remote...He called his trainer and is going to drop one off next week!

No improvements as far as the pixelation and blocking...still the same as before...the channel changing time is significantly faster

People may complain about the upcoming increases,but Comcast is still comparable to the dishes.
Here is a comparison of prices (Comcast as of 1/05) the dishes as of today
comcast I gave Standard cable with digital platinum plus premiere pack.
Costs are for programming only and does not include equipment rental. The dishes I gave a similar package including high definition and locals
channel counts do not include west coast feeds,PPV or sports package channels,or audio music channels:

Comcast costs 96.95 for 172 channels including 27 locals and 13 HD channels.

Direct TV costs 101.98 for only 151 channels including 16 locals and 5 HD channels (maybe 6)

Dish network costs 93.97 for 155 channels including 13 locals and 7 HD channels

Voom wants 89.90 for 89 channels including 10 HD channels, and no locals without an antenna (which they do provide,but reception may vary) <This does not include Voom's 30 HD exclusive channels which are generally HD Demo channels.

Prediction: once WE goes to ch 215, be on the lookout for something on Channels 838 and 856.

chitchat - Do you have insider knowledge of WB and UPN coming to comcast HD, or is this just a guess ? IF this is true then Comcast really is out of bandwidth !!

-Ken

Originally posted by chitchatjf
People may complain about the upcoming increases,but Comcast is still comparable to the dishes.
Here is a comparison of prices (Comcast as of 1/05) the dishes as of today
comcast I gave Standard cable with digital platinum plus premiere pack.
Costs are for programming only and does not include equipment rental. The dishes I gave a similar package including high definition and locals
channel counts do not include west coast feeds,PPV or sports package channels,or audio music channels:

Comcast costs 96.95 for 172 channels including 27 locals and 13 HD channels.

Direct TV costs 101.98 for only 151 channels including 16 locals and 5 HD channels (maybe 6)

Dish network costs 93.97 for 155 channels including 13 locals and 7 HD channels

Voom wants 89.90 for 89 channels including 10 HD channels, and no locals without an antenna (which they do provide,but reception may vary) <This does not include Voom's 30 HD exclusive channels which are generally HD Demo channels.

Prediction: once WE goes to ch 215, be on the lookout for something on Channels 838 and 856.

Bravo chitchat! Finally, someone who actually RESEARCHES the pricing instead of just b*tching that its going up again.

Originally posted by kenvt
chitchat - Do you have insider knowledge of WB and UPN coming to comcast HD, or is this just a guess ? IF this is true then Comcast really is out of bandwidth !!

-Ken

It is a guess.
I also remember reading that they're supposed to duplicate all analog programming in a digital format and bandwdth has already been reserved for that.

chitchat :

Maybe you are right, but then again take a look at this article from reuters today:

Americam Muslim channel going nationwide on Comcast (http://www.reuters.com/newsArticle.jhtml?type=televisionNews&storyID=6932171)

"He has signed a deal with Comcast, the largest U.S. cable operator to make it available nationwide."

-Ken

Originally posted by chitchatjf
[B]People may complain about the upcoming increases,but Comcast is still comparable to the dishes./B]

I am a very happy comcast customer. In fact I just called to cancel my monthly tivo service. Tivo must be hurting, they ask me why I was leaving and told them it is simple, comcast's 6412 is better (dual tuner, always changes channel, 120 megs) and cheaper (no additional box rental for tivo). They eventually talk me into reducing my service fee and charging me the cost of a 2nd unit. I still might cancel the service because I wanted to reduce my monthly bill not increase it.

Originally posted by FAiello
Since the IGuide has been downloaded along with the firmware upgrade to 8.12 I have been having problems with my 6200 freezing. I originally thought I had a problem with my Sony AV3000 remote or with Mitsubishi's Netcommand, but after reading threads hear and talking to some of my friends it seems to be a firmware problem. They all say that their unit freeze in the menu section. I have seen it there and also when I just scan through the channels and it seem to happen very often for me. Anyone eles seenig the problem scaning throught the channels? I could be scanning the channels and then it would stop for maybe 15-30 seconds before it would change the channel, same with the menu if I was to scroll through the menu some of the command will be delayed by 15-30 seconds or it would just freeze.

It definitely is the firmware upgrade. I've the same STB as you and experience all of the same problems as you have.

Originally posted by ashridharani
It definitely is the firmware upgrade. I've the same STB as you and experience all of the same problems as you have.

I also have my 6200 (firmware 8.12) freeze quite frequently when attempting to change channels - it doesn't respond to the remote for about 30 seconds and then executes all of the commands that I've pressed during the freeze. So it's receiving the commands, storing them in a buffer, but for some reason it's not able to execute the commands instantly as if the cpu time is being completely used by another process. If this were Windows, I'd be scanning for viruses now.
BTW, this seems to happen more between 12am and 12:30am. Maybe that's when the box downloads new guide data?

Getting back to Standard (plus digital classic)

Comcast 51.95 for 107 channels including 27 locals and 9 HD channels

DirecTV 51.98 for 111 channels including 16 locals and only 4 HD channels

Voom 49.95 for around 70 channels (note 4 HD channels currently inclkuded but they will eventually move to an extra charge package,assuming Voom is still around) This dosen't include Voom's demo channels = Remember no locals without an antenna and no NESN or FSN even in SD.

Dish network 44.98 for around 105 channels yes 13 locals and 5 HDchannels

Originally posted by LKupersmith
I also have my 6200 (firmware 8.12) freeze quite frequently when attempting to change channels - it doesn't respond to the remote for about 30 seconds and then executes all of the commands that I've pressed during the freeze. So it's receiving the commands, storing them in a buffer, but for some reason it's not able to execute the commands instantly as if the cpu time is being completely used by another process. If this were Windows, I'd be scanning for viruses now.
BTW, this seems to happen more between 12am and 12:30am. Maybe that's when the box downloads new guide data?

I have a 5100 and am seeing the same issue with the box not responding and then executing any command that is issued until after a 30 sec - 1 min delay.

ROTK, non-OAR. 6208 Copy protection flag. It's here. Damn!

Tim, it's a technical problem. It shouldn't be preventing you from archiving a Copy Once program. All premium channels are Copy Once.

If this is an isolated issue, and should be copy once, please address when it may be fixed so I don't cancel my $140 bill amonth prematurely :)

Try unplugging the firewire and resetting the number in your JVC. That usually works for me. Reset your cable box as well (unplug/plug).

Got a quick pricing question...

I'm currently sub'd to Comcast with a bare bones package of Basic Cable, HDTV pak and Digital Classic (about $22 a month)... I'm thinking of adding a movie channel to my pak, more specifically the Starz pak....

Anyone know off-hand how much they'll charge me to add Starz ? Will it be $12-15 more a month or will they try and make me upgrade my service to a higher plan to do it ? Thanks.

Well I've lurked around this place long enough without registering. Thanks everyone for all the great info!

So, is there anyone west of Marlborough and Hudson with a 6412? I'm stuck way out here in Springfield and every time I call Comcast, they tell me it's not available yet and they'll be happy to put me on a waiting list. I wonder if they've actually re-entered my name on it each of the 10+ times I've called....

I guess I should be happy we even have the 6208 out here, considering ABC HD isn't even available this far outside of Boston (we get Hartford HD feeds of the other major networks). And the iGuide deployment seems to have died somewhere in the Framingham area.

Any news for the 413 area code is definitely appreciated. :)

Originally posted by sha_now
Got a quick pricing question...

I'm currently sub'd to Comcast with a bare bones package of Basic Cable, HDTV pak and Digital Classic (about $22 a month)... I'm thinking of adding a movie channel to my pak, more specifically the Starz pak....

Anyone know off-hand how much they'll charge me to add Starz ? Will it be $12-15 more a month or will they try and make me upgrade my service to a higher plan to do it ? Thanks.

Try $19. You do get Digital plus with 19 extra channels, plus the Encore movie channels (not included in the 19) and something you will like on channel 875.

Do not be surprised if they try to push standard on you.

At www.comcast-ne.com/information , there is a survey page to e-mail Comcast for channels we want to see Comcast add to line-up. Hopefully, more HD soon.

I still cannot figure out why Comcast lists Gol TV (English) Channel 268 as part of their new Sports Tier, when in fact its not even active. I currently do not have Comcast, but a friend of mine does and he is baffled by this. I told him if Comcast would add this channel, then I might be willing to switch providers. I want Gol TV (English) because I do not speak Spanish and am a huge Real Madrid fan and this is the only way to catch Real Madrid and La Liga. Gol TV from what I understand is doing testing for HD and I think it would be pretty cool to catch some soccer games LIVE in HD. If anybody has any information in regards to this, I would appreciate it.

INHD shows some soccer games from time to time. Not sure if it's live though.

Regarding the new dual-box tuner, has anyone actually picked up the box at a Comcast Service Center? I just called and they said I can pick it up - which is odd given how they fought me on the 6208 and INSISTED they install it themselves (and this was only 3 months ago!)

Do the 6214's have the DVI enabled? I'd hate to go back to component

Originally posted by rookiewill
Regarding the new dual-box tuner, has anyone actually picked up the box at a Comcast Service Center? I just called and they said I can pick it up - which is odd given how they fought me on the 6208 and INSISTED they install it themselves (and this was only 3 months ago!)

Do the 6214's have the DVI enabled? I'd hate to go back to component

I am not sure about the 6214s but the 6412s do.

Person down the street has a 6200 with DVI ON!

Originally posted by rookiewill
Regarding the new dual-box tuner, has anyone actually picked up the box at a Comcast Service Center? I just called and they said I can pick it up - which is odd given how they fought me on the 6208 and INSISTED they install it themselves (and this was only 3 months ago!)

Do the 6214's have the DVI enabled? I'd hate to go back to component

I use DVI and I have a HDCP compliant display.

Ah, the story is always changing it seems. After having last Friday's appointment canceled (Lancaster/Worcester-Leominster area) due to the field contractors not having any of these boxes, I had my appointment set to 12/17 by the customer service folks which is when they were "pretty darn sure" that the boxes will be widely available in my area. I didn't want to take more time off so I said fine to that.

So today, I get a call from Comcast from a very pleasant woman who said "you have an appointment on 12/17. We can schedule something earlier if you want?" I relayed my story and irritation about it since it was the second appointment. She took my info and said she'd call me back in two minutes. Three minutes later, she calls back. In speaking with the field coordinator for my area, she said that the contractors were supposed to go and actually GET the box from the center there if there was a request for one, and not to just wait until they eventually get stocked. Apologized for the problem and set me with an appointment this friday saying that there definitely will be a dual tuner box for me on that day.

Keeping my fingers crossed, but this could be helpful for those out in my area who haven't had any movement yet like those east of us.

Originally posted by Chris Beveridge
Ah, the story is always changing it seems. After having last Friday's appointment canceled (Lancaster/Worcester-Leominster area) due to the field contractors not having any of these boxes, I had my appointment set to 12/17 by the customer service folks which is when they were "pretty darn sure" that the boxes will be widely available in my area. I didn't want to take more time off so I said fine to that.

So today, I get a call from Comcast from a very pleasant woman who said "you have an appointment on 12/17. We can schedule something earlier if you want?" I relayed my story and irritation about it since it was the second appointment. She took my info and said she'd call me back in two minutes. Three minutes later, she calls back. In speaking with the field coordinator for my area, she said that the contractors were supposed to go and actually GET the box from the center there if there was a request for one, and not to just wait until they eventually get stocked. Apologized for the problem and set me with an appointment this friday saying that there definitely will be a dual tuner box for me on that day.

Keeping my fingers crossed, but this could be helpful for those out in my area who haven't had any movement yet like those east of us.
All the more reason why they should let us pick up the boxes and install them ourselves. Does anyone know a valid reason why they don't? I can't afford to take time off from work right now, only to have them show up with the wrong box. I have some sharp objects in my house, and someone could get hurt.

Mickey

I agree....for both the 6208 and 6412, I installed them while the tech watched. It's nice to have the tech there in case something goes wrong, but otherwise it's just as easy to pick them up. The good thing was both times the tech arrived in the first 15 minutes of the alloted 2 hour window. That, and there was no charge for the visit for the 6412 upgrade...at least there had better not be. ;)

Actually, I stood behind the stereo stack and lifted the upper components while the tech removed the old and slid the new in place. But, I was still in charge of cabling while he watched.

In today's mail I received the comcast price increase announcement as well as this interesting tidbit:

The "Hallmark Channel" (wtf??) is going to be on ANALOG channel 66 to replace WE which moves to the digital tier at channel 215. Why is comcast adding new channels to analog ?

There goes chitchat's theory.

-Ken

Originally posted by kenvt
In today's mail I received the comcast price increase announcement as well as this interesting tidbit:

The "Hallmark Channel" (wtf??) is going to be on ANALOG channel 66 to replace WE which moves to the digital tier at channel 215. Why is comcast adding new channels to analog ?

There goes chitchat's theory.

-Ken

It IS a good channel, but we already have it on channel 53.

Well me not much longer, I'm trying to get expanded basic cut off to save $37.90 I would rather have on the internet :)

I'm keeping my digital plartunum as I would rather have HBO showtime and starz rather then TBS TNT and USA,epspecially since i will still get my Hi def channels.

I'm a little behind the curve here although I've gone back a week or so. I was interested to find that others were having problems with long delays in reacting to commands with the 5100. Has there been any concerted effort to determine whether there is any update from Comcast planned to counteract this as it seems to coincide with the Guide update? Are they working on a software fix?

I am sure I have overlooked it in this vast thread, but does anyone have any incite on HD channel additions planned for 2005? thanks

If they could move 8 to 10 analog channels to digital , that would free up all the bandwidth we would need for HD ,VOD, Internet and to simulcast the rest of the analogs in the digital. I find that most digital SD channels (194-716) look better than the analogs (2-=99).

I live in Wellesley, MA (suburban Boston) and just got Comcast Digital Plus installed. I own a Hitachi 915 LCD RP that has an integrated tuner and is cable card ready. I opted for the stb for vod and tv guide. The installers had trouble getting my system up and running...eventually tracing it down to the street (something about a tap). After the installation they mentioned that some more work needs to be done down there at the tap...Perhaps this is the origin of my trouble but here's the problem...When I compare any of the cable fed HD stations side-by side with a cheap indoor antenna (using PIP), the PQ of the attenna fed signal is so strikingly better that it is like HD vs no HD. Colors,black levels, clarity are Dramatically different! It is true with all of the HD channels. Furthermore PBS HD seems overscanned on cable when compared with the antenna (the PBS HD logo is almost off the screen). Is this simply a technical problem that the cable guys can fix or is the HD signal from comcast so woefully compressed ?

Originally posted by macd23
I am sure I have overlooked it in this vast thread, but does anyone have any incite on HD channel additions planned for 2005? thanks about a dozen, can't say for sure but i'd bet on the rest of the networks, TMC, TNT, HDnet, Universal and some less familiar ones.

AVic - If indeed we get these channels I bet it is on a premium HD tier like TWC. No way they give us HDnet and Universal with extra $$.

-Ken

ken:
i agree. but what i'd LOVE for Comcast to offer is a 'Digital HDTV' package which would include the Digital Classic channels and ALL HD channels, including premiums like HBO and Showtime BUT without having to subscribe to Digital Silver Gold or Platinum.

anyone see the celtics in HD on fox sports net via INHD2 last night? i wasn't aware that they were beign shown now...has a deal been completed on that or was it a mistake?

Not a mistake, a few games have been shown already.

Originally posted by macd23
anyone see the celtics in HD on fox sports net via INHD2 last night? i wasn't aware that they were beign shown now...has a deal been completed on that or was it a mistake?
The original deal was done months ago.

By the way, the picture quality is very good on these Celtic HD broadcasts. And a big improvement over my fuzzy FSN channel 52.

Mickey

Originally posted by avic
ken:
i agree. but what i'd LOVE for Comcast to offer is a 'Digital HDTV' package which would include the Digital Classic channels and ALL HD channels, including premiums like HBO and Showtime BUT without having to subscribe to Digital Silver Gold or Platinum.

This will never happen. You can subscribe to the premiums a la carte, but the price is now at what you pay for the equivalent digital package, as Comcast is doing it's best to discourage a la carte subscribers. The $10-20/mo for each premium is for the content; it wouldn't be a dime cheaper if they offer HBO-HD without the SD channels.

HD Channel Numbers.

Does anyone in the Boston area receive Channel 7 (NBC WHDH) in HiDef on Comcast Cable without an STB. I seem to get PBS, CBS and ABC in HIDef, but can't find NBC. What is the station channel number?

Originally posted by Bapon
HD Channel Numbers.

Does anyone in the Boston area receive Channel 7 (NBC WHDH) in HiDef on Comcast Cable without an STB. I seem to get PBS, CBS and ABC in HIDef, but can't find NBC. What is the station channel number?


I do with my Mitsubishi QAM tuner.

PBS-HD 84.01
FOX-HD 84.02
NBC-HD 85.01
ABC-HD 85.02
CBS-HD 88.02

The PQ on Celtics home games is pretty good.

I have no clue if someone connected to FSN reads here, but they have to stop pushing the commentary through all the 5 audio channels...its freaky to hear Tommy's voice from all over the place...

Did any get the road game a couple of nights back at Orlando on 881?? The screen was frozen all the time!

Hi all,

So I've been using my 6412 to do series recordings of Seinfeld on all channels, the Simpsons on FOX HD, and Star Trek:TNG and Star Trek:DS9 on Spike TV.

What I've noticed over the past couple days is that some recordings will have 2 second time periods where it's as if the sound was muted and then unmuted. I am not sure if this is the infamous "mute bug" that others have mentioned. What I have done is to leave my 6412 on all the time since some said this prevents the bug.

I did notice my HD was about 80-85% full when these sound mutes began. Could this have anything to do with it?

Originally posted by onkyoguy
The PQ on Celtics home games is pretty good.

I have no clue if someone connected to FSN reads here, but they have to stop pushing the commentary through all the 5 audio channels...its freaky to hear Tommy's voice from all over the place...


A little OT, but I was reading this article (http://www.filmandvideomagazine.com/articles/viewarticle.jsp?id=28562) this morning on mixing sports for 5.1....

Hi all,

Just a random vent, since I just came back to the office from almost 4 hours of useless waiting.

I've moved into a new apartment, and when I contacted Comcast to have my service swapped over, they informed me I would need to have a rep come to the house to install my new service. The appointment was scheduled for today, December 2nd, with a time window of 11-1pm.

Last night I unpack my TV and 6412, and hook it up in order to have it ready for the rep. To my surprise, the service is up and running. My package, Digital+HBO silver (HD) is active. I check again this morning, flick through to make sure it's my exact package from my old address, and then call Comcast to cancel the appointment, so I can avoid taking hours away from my work and vacation time.

During my call, the CSR insists that I need to have someone come install the new service, even though it appears that my service is up and running. I repeatedly let her know that the service is up and running, but she insists that someone has to come in to install service anyway. Eventually we confirm that the time window for the appointment is 11-1.

I leave work at 10:30 a.m., since in the past I've had the reps show up a little early, and I didn't want to miss my appointment. I get home, and begin the waiting process. Sometime after noon, between 12:15-12:30pm, my phone rings. I pick it up, but the person on the other end hangs up.

1pm comes, and I decide to wait until 1:15pm before calling Comcast, since it appears they've missed the window.

1:15pm I call Comcast, and they inform me that the rep is running late, but should be at my apartment by 1:30pm. They tell me someone called and left a message telling me this, but, I have no messages on either my home phone or cell phone. I'm guessing they are referring to the caller that hung up on me.

1:30pm, the rep calls me and tells me he's running late, and should be at my location in roughly 15 minutes.

2:15pm, the rep buzzes my front door. As I walk out to greet him, I note that he is carrying a new DVR box, along with the remote and standard package for setup (cables, remote, etc.). I immediately let him know, before he is even in my apartment, that I already have the box and it's already up and running. He expresses surprise, and lets me know that the reason he was late was because he was trying to find a DVR box for me.

He comes into my apartment, notes that my tv is up and running (I was watching 882 at the time), and lets me know that there is no reason for him to be there. He tells me he wished he'd known earlier, as I was his last appointment for the day, and he could have had a nice short day if this appointment had been canceled.

I mention that even though the cable is up and running, with my package and all the HD channels are coming through just fine, I can't seem to use the dual tuner function. I can record, but I cannot record one channel and watch another. He lets me know that he has no knowledge of how the dual tuners work, and has never dealt with them. He directs me to call Comcast for assistance or go through the DVR menu for direction

I sign the paper saying he at least showed up, and he leaves, with all of his hardware, at 2:25pm.

I've just spent almost 4 hours of time out of work, eating into my accrued vacation time, for an appointment that was absolutely pointless and without purpose.

Upset, I call Comcast, and am offered a $20 credit since the rep was late. I was at least looking for a paid month, or some sort of credit that was worth the hours I took off work, especially since this morning I was informed that I HAD to have someone install the service.

Customer service issues, miscommunication, and errors like this are really pushing my limits when it comes to dealing with Comcast. It seems like I either have an excellent experience, or like this, a horrible experience that really upsets me.

-JR

Originally posted by onkyoguy
...Did any get the road game a couple of nights back at Orlando on 881?? The screen was frozen all the time!
I don't think anyone in Eastern Mass got the Orlando game on 881. The NBA games on 881 are coming from NBA-TV. When the Celtics are going to be on InHD-1 (881) nationally, the local Celtics channel (Fox Sports Net - New England) has black-out rights to protect their local market, advertising, etc. The Celtic games on 882 are FSN productions, simulcast over InHD-2/Comcast, with no black-out necessary since its still FSN. May not make perfect sense, but that is the story.

Mickey

Well I finally got an appointment in Springfield for a 6412 installation. When I talked to the CSR, I got the same story most people are getting...

"We can set up an appointment, but we don't have too many of them, so we can't guarantee they'll actually have one when they come."

So, I set up the appointment for Saturday the 11th. Hopefully they'll show up with one, but if not, at least it's not a wasted vacation day.

For those of you who aren't getting anywhere, try telling them you know someone in MA that has one already, that seemed to work for me. :)

Originally posted by MickeyGee
I don't think anyone in Eastern Mass got the Orlando game on 881. The NBA games on 881 are coming from NBA-TV. When the Celtics are going to be on InHD-1 (881) nationally, the local Celtics channel (Fox Sports Net - New England) has black-out rights to protect their local market, advertising, etc. The Celtic games on 882 are FSN productions, simulcast over InHD-2/Comcast, with no black-out necessary since its still FSN. May not make perfect sense, but that is the story.

Mickey

IMHO the NBA.TV game on 881 should NOT be subject to blackout.
They could restrict access to it to those who also get NBATV full time on ch 599 and 257.

Originally posted by JDLIVE
I agree....for both the 6208 and 6412, I installed them while the tech watched. It's nice to have the tech there in case something goes wrong, but otherwise it's just as easy to pick them up. The good thing was both times the tech arrived in the first 15 minutes of the alloted 2 hour window. That, and there was no charge for the visit for the 6412 upgrade...at least there had better not be. ;)

It took a short painless phonecall to get a credit of $15.99 for going to the 6208 to the 6214. I am slightly miffed that it was there in the first place, but alls well that ends well.

Originally posted by jckessler
This will never happen. You can subscribe to the premiums a la carte, but the price is now at what you pay for the equivalent digital package, as Comcast is doing it's best to discourage a la carte subscribers. The $10-20/mo for each premium is for the content; it wouldn't be a dime cheaper if they offer HBO-HD without the SD channels.

I agree with you. The HBO HD channel is part of the HBO subscription package (7 channels of HBO standard,the HBO HD channel and HBO on demand)

FAiello:

Thanks for your response. My Sony xs60 internal tuner has the following channel numbers for the direct-in Comcast cable:

PBS HD 19.3
Fox HD 31.2
CBS HD 30.1
ABC HD 20.1

What would NBC HD be ?? Anyone?

Can anyone reccomend the best settings for a Sony RP LCD? 480i or p? Overide yes or no? It is set to 1080i on the HD and 16x9.

Thanks.

What would NBC HD be ?? Anyone?

Try 42-1

Stan

I have the same problem with Comcast via my xs60
I get:
PBS HD 19.3
Fox HD 31.2
CBS HD 30.1
ABC HD 20.1

Can't seem to tune in WHDH-DT 42.1

I think I'm getting some audio oddities with my 6412. Sometimes I get Dolby Digital sound, but sometimes when I should, I just get DPL-2. (I know it should be in Dolby Digital, because that is how the same programming is coming thru via DirecTV and OTA). Is there anything I can do to make it right all the time, or is this a known bug? Also, in attempting to fix it, I turned off the box (normally I leave it on all the time). When I turned the box back on, there was NO audio, and the only way to get back the audio was to play something previously recorded for a few moments, which instantly had audio (but it did not always restore Dolby Digital). Is this a univeral 6412 issue, MY 6412 only issue, a Comcast-Boston issue, or something else?

Originally posted by Neisword
Well I finally got an appointment in Springfield for a 6412 installation. When I talked to the CSR, I got the same story most people are getting...

"We can set up an appointment, but we don't have too many of them, so we can't guarantee they'll actually have one when they come."

So, I set up the appointment for Saturday the 11th. Hopefully they'll show up with one, but if not, at least it's not a wasted vacation day.

For those of you who aren't getting anywhere, try telling them you know someone in MA that has one already, that seemed to work for me. :)

Wish I'd known, I could have sent the guy who brought the one to my place to your location. ;)

-JR

Originally posted by RScogland
I think I'm getting some audio oddities with my 6412. Sometimes I get Dolby Digital sound, but sometimes when I should, I just get DPL-2. (I know it should be in Dolby Digital, because that is how the same programming is coming thru via DirecTV and OTA). Is there anything I can do to make it right all the time, or is this a known bug? Also, in attempting to fix it, I turned off the box (normally I leave it on all the time). When I turned the box back on, there was NO audio, and the only way to get back the audio was to play something previously recorded for a few moments, which instantly had audio (but it did not always restore Dolby Digital). Is this a univeral 6412 issue, MY 6412 only issue, a Comcast-Boston issue, or something else?

RS:

In my instance, my 6412 is connected to a Rotel DD5.1/DTS/DTSNeo:6/etc. suround sound processor via a coaxial digital audio cable. I've had the 6412 for a few weeks now and can say there was only one instance where a show was showing as DD5.1 through iGuide but showed up as DD-PL2 on my processor. A few seconds later, it corrected itself.

In that instance, I blamed the show for having a weird encoding problem. Since then, I have not had any issues at all with my processor properly detectcing the incoming audio signal.

Perhaps you could schedule a 6412 swap, though it seems like it is in low supply for some. I may exchange mine down the road a bit, as the HD is quite loud.

Anyone else feel the 6412 HD picture quality is just a tad off from the 6200 or 6208? Just doesn't seem as crisp. The untrained eye might not notice, but I swear there is an ever so slight blur to the PQ.

Using DVI port, monster DVI cable and a Sony RPLCD.

Ok, I went into the menu this morning to mess with 720p vs. 1080i. After watching and concluding that 720p didn't look better than 1080i, I switched back to 1080i and now the PQ looks as it did with the 6208 and 6200 I had prior.

I don't know why this switch back and fourth worked, but I can only guess that the default settings (1080i) maybe do not really kick in and a switch back and forth forces the firmware to function properly??

Who knows, but I think I am happy. Football today will give me a better indication.

On the 480 settings. Shutting this OFF greatly improves the color and overall quality of SD. However, you will not be able to use your stretch modes, so I put it back to 480i. I try my best to only watch HD.

Funny how HD turns Comcast's 500 channels into only 10-12 options.

I'm considering upgrading to an hdtv, digital cable and a 6412. I currently have analog cable and I use 2 SD Tivos to record shows. If I do the upgrade, will I still be able to use my Tivos on channels 1-99 to record the SD shows?

Can I use my existing splitters or do I need different splitters for digital cable?
How many times can I split before I'll need an amplifier? I'd want one input for each of my Tivos and then the 6412 (which, I assume, must split it's input for the 2 tuners).

Thanks for any info.

For two tivos and a 6412 you will need a three way split, one to each of the devices.

The splitters for HD/digital cable need to be somewhat new so they can pass the full bandwidth. If you have a 2x splitter right now and your signal is in any way weak you probably will need an amp

The wife picked up the 6412 at the South Boston Comcast center last week and it is a great upgrade. However, it is rather odd:

1 - If the box is turned off for a period of time, when I turn it back on, it doesn't appear to send the programming (DVI out or Component out) to the TV. I get the on-screen guide, but no picture behind it. My resolution is to select a taped show, watch it, and then the box kicks in.

2 - It has screwed up my subscription packages. I no longer have HBO on-demand (tells me I need a subscription), but it gives me more than HBO on the regular premium channels

Other than that, the sound seems about equal with the 6208...

Anyone have/had similar problems

Originally posted by LarryJoe
Anyone else feel the 6412 HD picture quality is just a tad off from the 6200 or 6208? Just doesn't seem as crisp. The untrained eye might not notice, but I swear there is an ever so slight blur to the PQ.

Using DVI port, monster DVI cable and a Sony RPLCD.

Larry - I found the PQ equal on the HD and digital channels and BETTER on the analog channels. Of course, I always thought my 6208 was brutal on the analog channels, so take that FWIW

Question re:6412. Does it always output in 1080i or 720p even if the source is 480i? Or do you have to manually change it? If so, how hard is it to toggle between HD and SD output. I happened to like the stretch mode of my Sony RPLCD and I would prefer that he unit display in original format.

Originally posted by rookiewill

1 - If the box is turned off for a period of time, when I turn it back on, it doesn't appear to send the programming (DVI out or Component out) to the TV. I get the on-screen guide, but no picture behind it. My resolution is to select a taped show, watch it, and then the box kicks in.

Anyone have/had similar problems [/B]

This same problem just started happening to me as of yesterday. Of course my wife discovered it when she went to turn on the TV for my 3 year old and then proceeded to curse me for the hi-tech setup involved.

My solution is the same. I'm going to play around with it a bit, it seems easy to reproduce (power off cable box and then turn it back on) and then I'll call Comcast.

Originally posted by elbig
Question re:6412. Does it always output in 1080i or 720p even if the source is 480i? if you have the 480 override set to OFF then yes, you'll only get 1080i or 720p (depending on what you've set it to) regardless of the source. sounds like you'd want to set the 480 override to 480i or 480p that way 4:3 sources get sent as such. go to the service menu by turning off the box then hitting menu.

Originally posted by rookiewill
The wife picked up the 6412 at the South Boston Comcast center last week and it is a great upgrade.

How do you go about picking up a 6412 from Comcast, do you have to call in? I thought the only way to exchange a 6208 for a 6412 was to have an installer come (which is a major pain).

I called Comcast last week and said I wanted to schedule a date, but they indicated that I had to pick it up myself. I challenged them on it since only 2 months ago I had to have an installer out. They indicated that there was no problem now.

I didn't schedule it, nor did they know I was coming in. The wife just went in and asked for the new box and shockingly, she was able to get it. I think she went on Thursday of this past week. Hell, she didn't even know what she was asking for, and it wasn't a problem

When you get it, make sure you bring your existing 6208 AND the remote - as the 6412 has a slightly updated remote that is critical for using the dual-tuner functionality.

Not sure if this is the case for all of Mass, or just the Boston area - or if it was the case as I already had the 6208

I just called Comcast myself. No go on picking the box up myself.

CSR:
"The boxes are too expensive and complicated to have customers install themselves."

Me:
"But I had to install the previous box myself because the tech didn't know what he was doing!"

CRS: (laughs) Yeah, sometimes the learning curve is longer than we'd like."

Me: "Can we forget about the install fee then?"

CRS: "After you just made fun of my installers? Sure, no problem!"

Me: "This is the new 2 tuner model, the 6412, correct?"

CSR: "Yes sir, the latest and greatest. How does tomorrow work for you?"

Me: " :D "

I just received my Comcast bill and there is a change of service fee of $15.25. I called to get a credit and the CSR said she couldn't credit my account because a technician came to my house. I said I didn't have the choice of picking up the box myself. Also, as far as the install was concerned all the technician did was put the batteries in the remote, I did the swap of the box and he was there no longer than 5 minutes.

I said other comcast customers are getting the credit, wy can't I and she said they must have received some sort of promotion. I guess I have no recourse at this point.

If I were you I would call back. Everyone here knows information varies call to call with Comcast, one CSR tells you one thing, another one tells you something else.

Originally posted by FBGJR
I just received my Comcast bill and there is a change of service fee of $15.25. I called to get a credit and the CSR said she couldn't credit my account because a technician came to my house. I said I didn't have the choice of picking up the box myself. Also, as far as the install was concerned all the technician did was put the batteries in the remote, I did the swap of the box and he was there no longer than 5 minutes.

I said other comcast customers are getting the credit, wy can't I and she said they must have received some sort of promotion. I guess I have no recourse at this point.

Going from a 6208 to 6214, I got the credit because I had already paid for the install and this was an upgrade... I paid for it when I first got the 6208. So I think the first DVR you get, costs.

To my surprise I called and CSR called local office and said they would hold one with my name. I was expecting problems upon pick-up, too good to be true, but there was none. Swapped the boxes (6208 for a 6412), no charge, an hour later guide was up and everything was fine.:cool:

Originally posted by Kaiser-Soze
Going from a 6208 to 6214, I got the credit because I had already paid for the install and this was an upgrade... I paid for it when I first got the 6208. So I think the first DVR you get, costs.

Actually, in my case, the 6412 is my first DVR and all I did was ask for a waiver of the install fee. I agree with the earlier poster who advised just call another CSR. BTW...I got the same results when I first had my cable modem intalled and when I got my first digital STB. In all cases, installation fees waived merely by asking for it up front.

Folks, if you don't like what you hear on the phone, ask (politely) to speak to their manager. This applies to EVERYTHING, not just cable.

The manager will generally be more educated about the issue, and also more likely to cut a deal just to make you happy.

I can't impress on you how often this has worked for me.

-Kevin

Anyone out there with a QAM tuner notice Comcast shuffled everything around today? I get like 40 QAM256 channels, many in clear (mostly music and on demand) and the locals are all rearranged. A lot of the stuff that used to be QAM64 is all QAM256 now.

-Mike

Originally posted by Prelude2k
Anyone out there with a QAM tuner notice Comcast shuffled everything around today? I get like 40 QAM256 channels, many in clear (mostly music and on demand) and the locals are all rearranged. A lot of the stuff that used to be QAM64 is all QAM256 now.

-Mike

Yes, I just notice the same here. Off to rescan the channels.

Discovery HD has been the only new HD channels so far in 2nd half of 2004 on Comcast. Will we get an Xmas present of more HD channels before the New years, 2005?

That should free up some bandwidth; QAM256 has a higher bitrate that QAM64 (double, I believe...)

mgpt6 - Just be happy with Hallmark and the Americam Muslim channel.

My prediction is that any new HD channels that are not OTA will be on a new additional cost HD Tier.

-Ken

Originally posted by kenvt
mgpt6 - Just be happy with Hallmark and the Americam Muslim channel.

My prediction is that any new HD channels that are not OTA will be on a new additional cost HD Tier.

-Ken

I've suggested such an approach, but evidently that isn't Comcast's corporate strategy, at least not yet. So since we don't pay extra for new channels (at least not explicitly), they get added only when we, as customers, put enough pressure that Comcast feels it is in their best interest to absorb the cost. That is what happened with DiscoveryHD.

Of course, my digital service is going up $2.30 next month, so I certainly feel justified in complaining about not having all the national HD channels (my area has available bandwidth I believe) that are available.

I don't believe we'll see any new channels in the next 3 weeks. But hopefully Jan 6th we'll see ESPN2HD and then UniversalHD after that.

Sadly, my favorite future addition, HDNET/Movies, is still "in negotiations" and we, as customers, haven't put enough pressure on Comcast to move them.

Rich N.

Originally posted by jckessler
That should free up some bandwidth; QAM256 has a higher bitrate that QAM64 (double, I believe...) Comcast is restructuring their bandwidth and services to free up more bandwidth for HD and new services for next year. With the restructuring that will occur by area in the next few feeks you will notice improved PQ on the majority of the digital channels (other than the premiums). Also following the restructuring, ADS will begin putting an end to the analog misery. 2005 is looking great for Digital and HD customers.

Originally posted by avic
.... Also following the restructuring, ADS will begin putting an end to the analog misery. 2005 is looking great for Digital and HD customers. [/B]

Great news avic, I am a pretty avid lurker but "ADS" is a new one. I am hoping that this is some sort of situation where analog channels are also broadcast digitally so popular channels (like HGTV in my house) look much much better on high quality sets.

It is. (A-nalog D-igital S-imulcast)

Off topic, I'm looking to upgrade my system.

Anyone interested in a

Hitachi 51UWX20B, i've owned it for a year and half, great condition!

Cambridge soundworks Movie Works 5.1 system with an Onkyo TX-DS595 reciever!

I payed $3,900 for the whole system but i'm not looking for anything close to that!

I'm looking at plasmas to gain room size!

if interested give me a PM

Originally posted by avic
you will notice improved PQ on the majority of the digital channels (other than the premiums).

I certainly hope so. The digital cable channels generally look pretty bad right now, and worse (IMO) than the good analog channels.

Originally posted by xboxjunkie
Off topic, I'm looking to upgrade my system.

Anyone interested in a
Cambridge soundworks Movie Works 5.1 system with an Onkyo TX-DS595 reciever!


Yes off-topic, but the receiver & speakers is exactly what I have now. I may need to head home during lunch and make sure everything is still there!

Guys, Comcast is now compressing SHO and MAX-HD to 15Mbps. All the other HDs are 25Mbps (actually 19, PC software shows 25). I noticed this right off, SHO definitely looks soft with alot more macroblocking. If this continues I will probably be cancelling my premiums.

What a shame. After I just upgraded to the 6412.

Trying to get the poop on this now.

not exactly HD now is it ?

dont they think its bad enough. now they do this ? glad I have HBO and Starz. :)

Originally posted by Kaiser-Soze
Yes off-topic, but the receiver & speakers is exactly what I have now. I may need to head home during lunch and make sure everything is still there!

So thats where it came from;)

Great, another blow to what little OAR we have. :(

Originally posted by DaveFi
Guys, Comcast is now compressing SHO and MAX-HD to 15Mbps. All the other HDs are 25Mbps (actually 19, PC software shows 25). I noticed this right off, SHO definitely looks soft with alot more macroblocking. If this continues I will probably be cancelling my premiums.

What a shame. After I just upgraded to the 6412.

Trying to get the poop on this now.

HBO and MAX has always come in at ~13-15 when recording on the computer for me. I don't have Showtime, so I can't compare then to now.

Originally posted by kaadray
HBO and MAX has always come in at ~13-15 when recording on the computer for me. I don't have Showtime, so I can't compare then to now. That's interesting. HBO is definitely the full 19 here. I wonder if bitrate is set locally?

Also, I found out that SHO and Max are the ones sending out the lower bitrates, and Comcast is just passing it through. I might cancel SHO.

all the premiums on average run at 15mbps....coming directly from the provider. ESPN is the only one that usually runs at 19mbps. The other premiums while averaging 15mbps can on occasion dip as low as 8mbps and as high as 19 mbps. How many times do we have to go over it, Comcast DOES NOT "compress" (get your terms right davefi, it would be rate shaping not compression) any of the HD signals!

Originally posted by jckessler
That should free up some bandwidth; QAM256 has a higher bitrate that QAM64 (double, I believe...)

I recall reading a tech doc that stated, "A 6 Mhz TV channel using 64 QAM provides 26.92 Mbps after error correction. 256 QAM provides 38.8 Mbps."

Yes, I already posted I know they're not compressing. Just TV.

I'm curious as to why Cinemax and SHO are limited to 15Mbps and the others use the full 19.3Mbps?

Originally posted by avic
Comcast is restructuring their bandwidth and services to free up more bandwidth for HD and new services for next year. With the restructuring that will occur by area in the next few feeks you will notice improved PQ on the majority of the digital channels (other than the premiums). Also following the restructuring, ADS will begin putting an end to the analog misery. 2005 is looking great for Digital and HD customers.

In reference to a post I saw in the Comcast with iGuide thread, the ADS conversion is happening in a matter of days. Will Comcast be making a public note of this, or will they be under the radar and keep it quiet?

Whether it happens in a few days or weeks, I'll be glad nonetheless. Analog channels and *many* digital channels simply look like a$$ on my HD set. I try to stay within 802-882 for most of my watching, though my BF wanders all over Analogland when he has the remote :-)

I'm a silver customer and chose HBO as my premium channel. I use my PVR to record the high def channel 870 movies. The movies are a mix of 5.1 and standard audio. Are any of the other premium channels, Starz, The Movie Channel, or Showtime any friendlier to people who have high def 7.1 audio set ups?

Thank You

Originally posted by tennberg
In reference to a post I saw in the Comcast with iGuide thread, the ADS conversion is happening in a matter of days. Will Comcast be making a public note of this, or will they be under the radar and keep it quiet?

Whether it happens in a few days or weeks, I'll be glad nonetheless. Analog channels and *many* digital channels simply look like a$$ on my HD set. I try to stay within 802-882 for most of my watching, though my BF wanders all over Analogland when he has the remote :-)

I had my 6412 installed yesterday and the tech confirmed the ADS conversion will be in place in my area by the 18th of the month. He also confirmed that all digital channels will be 256QAM vs a mix with 64QAM.

Not sure why Comcast wouldn't announce this, but he said it's a secret. So let's just keep this between us okay?:D

announce it?! yeah i can see it now on a spot on tv. hey new england join comcast now we have Analog Digital Simulcast and 256QAM! it's too technical to share with the masses. improved PQ from Comcast is all they can say so why spend the $. i don't think it would sell and the only folks (<1%) even interested are geeks like us. ;)

It does buffer the "We're hitting you with our annual above-inflation rate increase" letter I just got.

I mean, despite the geometric increases in cable rates, they are actually doing things to improve the service.

Maybe this has been covered, but I was having the delay problem with the 5100 big time. I called Comcast and they downloaded a fix overnight which seems to have worked. Why didn't they automatically do this for everyone, you say? Just one of those mysteries of life.

1. Will the simulcast digital channels get new numbers or will they be on the same channels and our STB will only pick up the digital ones?

2. Does anyone know what (any) digital channel currently broadcast in QAM(?) 256 and which ones broadcast in 64? I would like to do a comparison to see if I can notice a difference.

Originally posted by new2hometheater
I'm a silver customer and chose HBO as my premium channel. I use my PVR to record the high def channel 870 movies. The movies are a mix of 5.1 and standard audio. Are any of the other premium channels, Starz, The Movie Channel, or Showtime any friendlier to people who have high def 7.1 audio set ups?

Thank You AFAIK there's never been a broadcast that uses the rear center channel. Even broadcasts of programming that has a DD-EX/DTS-ES DVD doesn't seem to have it. Technical issue?

QAM256 vs. 64 is a modulation scheme and should have no impact (directly) on picture quality. It is possible that they are compressing the QAM256 channels to a lesser extent as it allows for more bits/Mhz, but that's a separate issue.

Originally posted by travis33
1. Will the simulcast digital channels get new numbers or will they be on the same channels and our STB will only pick up the digital ones?

2. Does anyone know what (any) digital channel currently broadcast in QAM(?) 256 and which ones broadcast in 64? I would like to do a comparison to see if I can notice a difference.

No new channel numbers. Digital boxes will pick up digital channels...analog will pick up only analog.

I believe he said everything is 256QAM right now. Jckessler is correct that it's a compression issue with 256 being the "less compressed".

Originally posted by avic
announce it?! yeah i can see it now on a spot on tv. hey new england join comcast now we have Analog Digital Simulcast and 256QAM! it's too technical to share with the masses. improved PQ from Comcast is all they can say so why spend the $. i don't think it would sell and the only folks (<1%) even interested are geeks like us. ;)

Actually, DirectTV makes a big deal about how their service, unlike cable, is ALL DIGITAL. I'm sure we'll see new Comcast ads soon touting the digital aspect as well as their "free" HD DVR versus a $1000 Tivo.

hi guys,
just received a samsung 5674 and connected it to a 6412 via component cables. i have a ht receiver and 5.1 speakers on order and am wondering how people are connecting their ht gear to maximize pq and sound quality. i assume using dvi to connect from 6412 to tv equals best pq. what about audio? are people using digital out from 6412 to ht receiver? any tips advice appreciated!
thanks

I wonder with ADS, I can see the cable channels like CNN,MTV,ESPN, etc being system wide having digital simulcast , but what about broadcast channels as North of Boston may have WMUR on system; and south of Boston have the Providence channels on system. Also, sure local and government channels will NOT be ADS.

No ADS in cambridge yet; analog still look like garbage as they're being converted to digital by the DVR, so you get a lovely combination of interference/static, plus compression artifacts!

Worst of both worlds. (Yes, I could run the cable wire into the TV directly.)

Originally posted by i080054
hi guys,
just received a samsung 5674 and connected it to a 6412 via component cables. i have a ht receiver and 5.1 speakers on order and am wondering how people are connecting their ht gear to maximize pq and sound quality. i assume using dvi to connect from 6412 to tv equals best pq. what about audio? are people using digital out from 6412 to ht receiver? any tips advice appreciated!
thanks

i0800:

I apologize if my reply is a bit off-topic:

I am connecting my 6412 directly to my Sony CRT HDT set via component cables. As it's not an LCD or plasma display, I've read there won't be much improvement with DVI. I don't run the video through my pre-amp as I want the most direct signal going to my set.

As for audio, I connect directly from the 6412 to my Rotel surround sound processor/pre-amp via digital coaxial.

Hope that helps.

rmf wrote:
Maybe this has been covered, but I was having the delay problem with the 5100 big time.
I called Comcast and they downloaded a fix overnight which seems to have worked.
Why didn't they automatically do this for everyone, you say? Just one of those mysteries of life.

I've been waiting for some additional info on this!!
Did your fix come as a firmware update? What version are you at now?

Thanks,
Don

Originally posted by da232
rmf wrote:


I've been waiting for some additional info on this!!
Did your fix come as a firmware update? What version are you at now?

Thanks,
Don

If Comcast is going to load a fix, it will be broadcast to all. They don't send fixes to just a single person. Generally in our area it goes in several chunks. I've never heard of Comcast downloading new software to a single person.

Originally posted by capecodguy
No new channel numbers. Digital boxes will pick up digital channels...analog will pick up only analog.

I believe he said everything is 256QAM right now. Jckessler is correct that it's a compression issue with 256 being the "less compressed".

Not everything is 256 QAM right now, most is still 64 QAM. As Avic said, only those around the Maynard and Framingham area are at all 256 QAM right now (though just because you live next to Maynard or Framingham doesn't mean that applies to you).

The QAM modulation has nothing to do with "compression", and compression isn't even a proper term when dealing with digital cable video. 64 QAM allows up to 27mbps of data on a single 6mhz RF channel. 256 QAM allows up to 38.8mbps of data on a single 6mhz RF channel. So you get an extra 10mbps of bandwidth available to slot more services in. Digital video isn't compressed, its reencoded to change the bitrate.

From talking to one of my friends who works for Comcast, he explained that while everything is going 256 QAM and will be opening up more bandwidth, he explained that its two fold. They are also pulling most of the digital services from a different source that provides higher bitrate video... meaning, better quality. So they are freeing up more bandwidth, but some of that bandwidth is also being devoted to the current lineup to improve picture quality.

Nearly everything is 64 QAM except for the HD services and some of the premiums. So if you want to see if you are in the area that went all 256 QAM, goto like Noggin ch 223. Turn off your box, go into the diagnostics and look at the current channel status. If it says 256 QAM, you are in the new area and most of your non-premium channels should look better.

anyone else been having issues with the 6200 boxes hanging when changing the channel or volume ? had it happen many times with both of mine and many times. pretty irritating. just wondering if its me! :)

Originally posted by bruman
anyone else been having issues with the 6200 boxes hanging when changing the channel or volume ? had it happen many times with both of mine and many times. pretty irritating. just wondering if its me! :)

Yah, I'm new to cable. Lived in Metrowest Boston and got HD OTA. Now in Seacoast NH with cable. My Comcast cable box hangs frequently. If you hit N keys it eventually unhangs and then executes the keys. Annoying.

ok, its not me. this has only been as of the last 2 weeks. never done it before.

Originally posted by ScoopsHD
So if you want to see if you are in the area that went all 256 QAM, goto like Noggin ch 223. Turn off your box, go into the diagnostics and look at the current channel status. If it says 256 QAM, you are in the new area and most of your non-premium channels should look better.

How do you go into the diagnostics?

turn off, then hit ok

HDTVdude23

Ever find the channel number for NBC on Comcast cable direct-in on your 60XS?

Well, Comcast showed up today with the DCT-6412 box as planned. When I had made my appointment, they gave me the "we can't guarantee there will be a 6412 available, etc. etc.", but everything went almost perfectly even way out here in Springfield. So yes, the 6412 is available west of Metro West and Worcester for those of you who are interested.

The reason I say almost perfectly? The installer decided to swap a "bad" cable in the basement and knocked out our high speed Internet right as we made it past the "waiting room" page to buy early bird Red Sox tickets! My finacee almost killed me. Luckily when the cable swap was finished 15 minutes later, redsox.com hadn't locked us out and we managed to purchase a Sunday Sox Pack for two.

Off to play with the 6412.... :D

Bruman wrote:ok, its not me. this has only been as of the last 2 weeks.
never done it before. I'm pretty sure these hanging/freezing symptoms have started only after
the last firmware upgrade to 8.12. I'm on the 5100.

Don

I'm having some channel hanging on my 6200. I'll hit the channel button and then hit it a bunch of times after it doesn't move. Of course, then after about 30-45 seconds, the thing goes nuts. :)

Chris

Originally posted by Schlotkins
I'm having some channel hanging on my 6200. I'll hit the channel button and then hit it a bunch of times after it doesn't move. Of course, then after about 30-45 seconds, the thing goes nuts. :)

Chris

Same problem here with a 6412 with firmware 09.12. Freezes, you then hit info, exit, so on, 10 seconds later, the thing goes nuts (to quote) :-)

Has anyone called in to Comcast to complain about the freezing yet? My 6200 does the same thing.

-Ken

Originally posted by Schlotkins
I'm having some channel hanging on my 6200. I'll hit the channel button and then hit it a bunch of times after it doesn't move. Of course, then after about 30-45 seconds, the thing goes nuts. :)

Chris

That happens on both my 6412 and my iguide updated 5xxx series box. It is rare, but happens occasionally - the box will rush to catch up with all the commands that it had ignored.

Weird.

Originally posted by kenvt
Has anyone called in to Comcast to complain about the freezing yet? My 6200 does the same thing.

-Ken
Good question. If I thought there was a chance that they would do something about it, I would have called them, but, like you (I imagine), I don't want to go through the aggravation of calling them.

complaining wont get you anywhere with this one. comcast is awaiting new firmware that fixes this issue. when they get it, we will. look for it early next year.

avic:

any other fixes this firmware may fix with the 6412/iGuide combo?

One problem I've noticed is this: I've set up a series recording for all episodes of Seinfeld on TBS, WFXT, and WFXT-DT. Some of the episodes (doesn't matter which channel it was recorded on) will have 2-3 second pauses where there is no sound at all. This will happen at most once per episode when it does happen.

I have not noticed this problem on any HD recordings. Just a bit weird. Sucks missing punchlines sometimes :-)

That's what closed captioning is for.

;)

Seriously, I've seen some audio dropouts with both my 6208 and 5100, and it drives me nuts.

I always just figured that it's normal flakey cable reception, readjusted for the new digital world.

Due to financial need,I had to turn in my DVR today :(

Just basic broadcast and the internet for this guy until I get my new place.
When that happens I will most likely be getting just digital classic. and an HD Box!
With my share of the rent going up I cannot afford luxeries like HBO and Starz.
The Internet is a necessaity.

Anyways foir the two days I had diigital platinum without extended basic every time i turned the box off and then back on I could not get ANY channel until I played a DVR recording.

Before turning it in I erased all my DVR recordings and set both tuners to channel 2.
I also turned in the cables as well.

Any idea when the 256QAM/less compression upgrades will occur in other areas?

yes but why spoil the who will be next game? keep checking that diagnostics menu! ;) and stop using that nasty "C" word that doesn't apply! yes there are other secret firmware and software upgrades coming. how 'bout some bling bling pip? hmmm stay tuned kids...

Originally posted by avic
and stop using that nasty "C" word that doesn't apply!

They may not recompress, but that doesn't mean that the rate-shaping they do can't affect image quality. Rate shaping eliminates null packets in the stream (which, since they're empty, is a lossless thing) and/or requantizes the compressed data. Requantization most certainly can affect video quality, depending where it's being applied and to what degree (small increases in quantization, or increases in predictive frames isn't bad, but larger increases are and requantizing I-frames usually is.) Once you use rate shaping to drop bit rate by about 25% you'll usually get better looking results recompressing the signal rather than shaping it.

Requantization will typically increase the appearance either of blockiness or of color banding or both.

Of course, given the trend to fixed-resolution displays that aren't any of the broadcast HD resolutions and thus employ scalers of, er, varying quality, requantization to the level used to fit 2 HD channels down a QAM256 pipe isn't the harshest thing happening to the signal anyway. It's usually more benign than a recompress, but not always, and can affect image quality. Any time you take away information, regardless of how you do it, you can't put it back.

(Sorry. Been beating my head against a bug in some codec code today, and I'm feeling a little cranky... ;) )

avic, is PIP really on the way for the 6412 via a firmware update? Here's a question for ya:

At least on the remote that came with my new 6412, one of the silver ones with the PIP section on the bottom, the only button that actually has any function is Swap. The other buttons for the PIP functions not only do nothing meaningful, but they don't even light the activity LED on the remote or the box.

Seems that in order for PIP to work from the remote, Comcast will either have to provide a new remote, or have users reprogram their current remote with a new code that activates the PIP buttons. Is this something they expect an average user to be able to do?

Wilkenson:

You're still using the term compression when its not valid. Your thinking that some amount of reencoding is necessary to get 2 HD channels into 1 256 QAM is wrong. Two 19.2mbps HD services fit nicely into a 38.8mbps 256 QAM channel. Now not to say there is NO encoding at all. True untouched HD (40-60mbps), is the kind of raw data you get coming off of the camera. For purposes of transmission and such its encoded into an MPEG-2 format and transmitted in that form as what we consumers see on our end.

Rate-shaping generally doesn't affect null packets, because in dealing with MPEG-2 video streams there are no null packets in the MPEG stream itself. The null packets are filled in to make up the remainder of the 64 QAM or 256 QAM of bandwidth if the mpeg streams in the multiplex don't fill up the bandwidth. Rate-shaping uses various algorithms, based on what the programmers wrote, what the equipment can process, and any sort of priorities the mpeg streams are set with. These algorithms will look at all the MPEG streams in a multiplex and determine which ones can stand to give up some bandwidth to other services with higher priority that need it.

Comcast's policy is to provide their customers with the best possible PQ and they will not sacrifice it to cram in more channels/services.
In fact they're taking steps to improve PQ i.e. ADS and 64 to 256QAM conversion coming over the next several weeks.

Originally posted by Neisword
avic, is PIP really on the way for the 6412 via a firmware update?
nothing is guaranteeed until it happens but i was told pip is a planned upgrade, how and when, can't say. they'll have to figure out the remote issue.

Originally posted by avic
You're still using the term compression when its not valid. Your thinking that some amount of reencoding is necessary to get 2 HD channels into 1 256 QAM is wrong. Two 19.2mbps HD services fit nicely into a 38.8mbps 256 QAM channel. Now not to say there is NO encoding at all. True untouched HD (40-60mbps), is the kind of raw data you get coming off of the camera. For purposes of transmission and such its encoded into an MPEG-2 format and transmitted in that form as what we consumers see on our end.

Rate-shaping generally doesn't affect null packets, because in dealing with MPEG-2 video streams there are no null packets in the MPEG stream itself. The null packets are filled in to make up the remainder of the 64 QAM or 256 QAM of bandwidth if the mpeg streams in the multiplex don't fill up the bandwidth. Rate-shaping uses various algorithms, based on what the programmers wrote, what the equipment can process, and any sort of priorities the mpeg streams are set with. These algorithms will look at all the MPEG streams in a multiplex and determine which ones can stand to give up some bandwidth to other services with higher priority that need it.

Actually, if you reread what I wrote, I'm very specifically not calling this compression. You yourself have stated in the past that Comcast uses rate-shaping (they may not use it for HD, since, as you point out, there are enough bits available for 2 channels per QAM256 band.) Rate shaping manages null packets (usually taking a null inserted to fill bandwidth quotient in one stream and shifting in data from another, which is a no-loss thing.) But, when it is required to reduce bit rate, it uses a technique called requantization. Requantization happens to already-compressed data, is lossy, and is much less computationally intensive than actual recompression.

Other products that do this kind of bit rate reduction have been available at the consumer level, using requantization to quickly convert a dual-layer DVD's-worth of video data into something that will fit on a single-layer recordable DVD.

And yes, I'm well aware that uncompressed HD is much more data still. I have some sitting right here on my array. ;) Only some cameras actually spit out real uncompressed data - a lot of the ones coming into wide use now use variants of the DV codec for what they actually write to tape.

Comcast's policy is to provide their customers with the best possible PQ and they will not sacrifice it to cram in more channels/services.
In fact they're taking steps to improve PQ i.e. ADS and 64 to 256QAM conversion coming over the next several weeks.

That's good, and I'm glad about it - all I was trying to do was to point out that rate shaping is not always lossless, as some of your previous posts have implied. Taken to excessive levels, it may even look worse than compression.

Oh, and feel free to call me Dennis. ;)