Can we clear up the issue of whether ANY 5100's have firewire? Mine was new OOTB and only has DVI. The firewire port is covered up with a metal tab. I'm trying to decide if I want to return it for a 5100 with firewire port.

Also, I am using component output. Why all the discussion about DVI? I understand it's digital vs. analog, but is it any better? And component in sets can't use it, right?

Thanks
Spearse

i have 1 USB port on the front of my moto 5100. the back has 3 more USB, 1 DVI and 2 Firewire ports. none of the ports are covered up....


just curious, what are the firewire ports used for on this cable box? and what about usb? i know the DVI is for a better video quality, although i don't know how much better hd can look than what i am seeing right now.

anyone know if any of the ports are even enabled or when they will be?

Hi Spearse. If you want firewire, return that 5100 for a DCT-6200. Not only does it have DVI, but firewire and USB ports.
As for component out; it's still an analog signal that gets dispalyed on a digital set. DVI is digital to digital. You (I) can notice a difference on some HD channels. Others may have more to say about this, than me.

Thanks. I hope Comcast won't give me a hassle for exchanging my 5100. Why do they have 2 models? Is the 6200 newer/better?
Spearse

5100 was end-of-lifed by Motorola. The 6200 is the new version.

Only the 6200 has the firewire, 5100 does not.

My 5100 seems to have firewire ports? Are they not going to be activated?! Probably have to wait a month for a 6200...

Chris

did anyone read my above post? my 5100 has 2 firewire ports on the back, i am looking at them. i do not know if they are enabled however.

If you live in the New England Comcast area, have an HD box with firewire and got it within the last two months, you most likely have a 6200. The 6200 and the 5100 look exactly the same. From my friend who works for Comcast he is pretty sure this region didn't buy any 5100s with Firewire, though he said it is possible but highly unlikely some 5100s with firewire ports on them did slip through the cracks.

On the bottom of your box it should tell you which model you have... 6200 or 5100.

Are the On Demand shows in wide screen format ?

Originally posted by dozens
Are the On Demand shows in wide screen format ?

Nope

And how will we know when DVI is enabled, other than just trying it?

Steve

You can check the firmware version on your box. The only firmware version I've heard of is 7.07 for 6200 boxes... So, my uess is they may not be an update for 5100 users, even if you do have firewire/dvi ports.

If someone does get the firmware and has a DVHS, try recording 807 for me if you could and let me know how it goes. Other markets are having trouble with NBC and if it's working here, then i'll need to rush to get setup for next weekend.

Thanks,
Chris

my fault guys, i have the 6200. oops. they told me i was getting a 5100 so i assumed thats what it was.........guess you were right. so is my 6200's DVI port enabled? FW is 05.03......seems outdated, is it?

Originally posted by macd23
my fault guys, i have the 6200. oops. they told me i was getting a 5100 so i assumed thats what it was.........guess you were right. so is my 6200's DVI port enabled? FW is 05.03......seems outdated, is it?

My FW is the same as yours. I have a 6200. My tech said they will send a message when the FW is updated, but I am not sure of that.

Steve

hey i see that the beanpot is going to be shown on inhd2.........but i also read on another forum that it will be blacked out in new england?????? does that make any sense??!??!

Beanpot is not being blacked out here; I watched part of the semifinals last week.

I think it's being blacked out on New England cable systems with InHD that don't carry NESN or NESN-HD. We're technically receiving the NESN-HD coverage rather than the InHD2 coverage, but the end result is the same.

ok i subscribe to nesn so i assume i will see it. how did you watch the semis last week? doesn't it start tomorrow?

Originally posted by macd23
ok i subscribe to nesn so i assume i will see it. how did you watch the semis last week? doesn't it start tomorrow?

Round 1 was last monday. The finals are tomorrow.

You'll get it no problem on Comcast.

I have an early 5100 I guess... DVI port, but it's a network port (not firewire) on the back.. I'll call about a 6200 tomorrow. Are there any 6208's out yet? That's a few months away right?

Chris

Chris...according to the Comcast website, the 5100s are the only receivers in use in Eastern Mass now. I'd love to get a 6200 as well.

oh well, maybe therob006 can tell us when they'll be available or can hook us up. It seems like some people here have them...

Chris

I think one of the issues with ER not filling screens was because even in their analog broadcast, NBC shows ER in Letterbox format. I have noticed NBC or WHDH locally seem to me sleeping on the HD switch lately. The 4 HD shows on NBC that I watch are Las Vegas, West Wing, ER and American Dreams. Since getting my Comcast box two weeks ago, the first Las Vegas was not in HD the whole show, the second started 10 minutes late. This week's West Wing, also 10 minutes late switching over. ER this week, well documented here and American Dreams has not been on.

4 shows, and NBC went 0-4! Not a good batting average!

Originally posted by Benji
Chris...according to the Comcast website, the 5100s are the only receivers in use in Eastern Mass now. I'd love to get a 6200 as well.

Not true, there have been many sightings of the 6200's on this site. I got one myself two weeks ago here in Randolph, as did a friend in Braintree this past Friday. Sure you're not talking about the 6208's, which will include DVR services?

I think the link for cable box on the Comcast site only shows the 5100, due to a failure on their part in not updating the site.

There's no point in getting a 6200 untill the firewire ports are enabled.

Come April Comcast will make them available to everyone- it's part of their agreement.

Originally posted by DaveFi
There's no point in getting a 6200 untill the firewire ports are enabled.

Come April Comcast will make them available to everyone- it's part of their agreement. Dave...do you know for a fact that they are not enabled?

I'm 99.9% sure as of this moment, no one in the Boston area has live firewire ports. However, therob006 and another source have indicated they will be activated this week. I'm going on the assumption that information is correct. Obviously, if they don't turn on, a 6200 is no better than the 5100 as far as I know.

Chris

Probably better in the sense that it's 4x faster.

The 5100 (at least mine) has the habbit of locking up/slowing down.

Either way I have a DVHS deck, so I'll be getting a 6200 or a PVR when they're available.

Anyone else notice Audio drops on 804 ?

Originally posted by DjCalvin
Anyone else notice Audio drops on 804 ?

Several, especially during 1st 15 mins of Grammys :(

Grammys on CBS-4/Comcast:
Video=A Audio=C- Good suuround mix, but dropouts and levels bouncing around at times : Performance =C- only highlights Alica Keyes and video of Zevon's "Keep Me in Your Heart"

ok after getting my box yesterday and watching lots of HD this weekend, i am addicted.......any news on new channels going forward that comcast might be adding (discovery hd, etc, etc???)

FYI - I called Comcast this morning and they are changing out my 5100 box tomorrow afternoon to a 6200. Just ask for it and they give it to you!

Any firmware updates yet?

Chris

Originally posted by Schlotkins
FYI - I called Comcast this morning and they are changing out my 5100 box tomorrow afternoon to a 6200. Just ask for it and they give it to you!

Any firmware updates yet?

Chris

How did you do that??
They told me yesterday that they did not offer the 6200 and cust service wanted to know why i wanted the 6200 over the 5100. I told her becuase the 5100 was end of life and my box was really slow.. still no luck..

on phone again with comcast now: according to Michael their cust service rep:
dvi will not be pushed out on the 6200 or 5100 at all becuase they are having issues with the clock through the dvi port...
They will not give me a 6200 as he said its no faster than the 5100 (BS)
and that they could send a tech out to look at my tv... hahahaha
WTF is up with that?

Because the reps are the last to know. Why change boxes when there's no advantage to doing it?

This forum will be the first to know when firewire is enabled in the region.

The guy got my request right and they won't replace my 5100 with another 5100... LOL. I mentioned Firewire, not DVI...

Chris

Hey everyone I'm a coworker of therob006. I've been lurking on here for a while now.

Just to let everyone know the latest email we've gotten has verified that the DVI firmware upgrade is going to happen on either 2/11 or 2/12 depending on where you live.

Apparantly the update will also fix the clock problem on the box as well.

I hope everything works out well and you all enjoy.

i am running FW 5.03 on my 6200....does that sound right? what version is the FW that will enable DVI?

Something else I came across. I believe there are 2 versions of the 5100 box. The DCT 5100 and the DCT 5100-005. The 5100-005 is the one that actually has the DVI and Firewire ports opened up. I know there has been conflicting rumors to what is what with those.

Why certain cust service reps are saying that we don't have 6200s I have no idea. If you want help as far as that goes you can also feel free to PM me and I'll be happy to try to help as far as that goes. I can probably hook something up as far as a swap goes.

I know initially the one major thing they tried to fix between the 5100 and the 6200 was the pq on the sd channels out of the component inputs. Alas according to what I've heard that didn't work out as planned. If any of you use the DVI when it becomes active please post back letting us know whether the pq on the SD channels gets any better with that.

Any time you guys need help. Please don't hesitate to ask. I'll do what I can to help though I won't always have all the answers.

"i am running FW 5.03 on my 6200....does that sound right? what version is the FW that will enable DVI?"

Not really sure the # yet. Might be different than any of the other ones out there due to the clock fix too. They didn't include the FW# in the email they sent out. Sorry

scorchedangel-

First, welcome to the forum and thanks for your offer of help. In terms of the firewire recording, have you guys heard anything about that? I know there is some problems with it on high bandwidth channels (NBC, INHD1/2, ESPN HD) and was wondering if <A> you were aware of them and <B> had any upcoming fixes.

Chris

Originally posted by Schlotkins
scorchedangel-

First, welcome to the forum and thanks for your offer of help. In terms of the firewire recording, have you guys heard anything about that? I know there is some problems with it on high bandwidth channels (NBC, INHD1/2, ESPN HD) and was wondering if <A> you were aware of them and <B> had any upcoming fixes.

Chris


As where firewire isn't active in this region yet I'm really not familiar with the recording problems to be honest. I keep hearing rumors that in April we go live with that. I don't exactly know for sure so I'm not going to promise anything. The only hope that I have is that if this is indeed a problem in other regions that it will be fixed before we go live here in New England. Sorry. I wish I had more info on that one.

macd23 -

As far as new channels go, there were lots of rumors a month ago about them, but all such rumors seem to have stopped.

There are many Comcast people on AVS Forum in different threads, and I haven't found any who indicate any new channels in the near future. Any new ones will probably cost more money, but I am willing to pay extra for the big 3 (Discovery, HDNet and Bravo). I sent Comcast a message two weeks ago about a special HD tier for these channels. The response was that they needed more research before answering and that my question was forwarded on. I haven't heard anything yet.

I am not hopeful, although TWC is getting HDNet and HDNet Movies, and they are part owner of INHD with Comcast, so maybe in the future my pessimism will prove to be unfounded.

Rich N.

I have a 6200 coming Saturday morning. I have a 5100 now that crashes and is slow. So they just but that in as the reason. I talked to a guy named Derek, he was helpful and knew what he was talking about. I guess at got lucky on a couple counts...

I'm getting a D-VHS deck this weekend, so hopefully those firewire ports will be working for me soon. :)

thanks raidbuck and scorched. i am assuming new channels will come on at some point this year, its only a matter of time.

scorchedangel: sent you a PM regarding the 6200

TMC-HD is coming, as well as UPN38 (Viacom owned), WLVI-56 and quite possibly Bravo-HD, although that reamains to be seen.

Bandwidth is the issue now. Look for Comcast to keep squeezing out their analog customers.

Originally posted by DaveFi
TMC-HD is coming, as well as UPN38 (Viacom owned), WLVI-56 and quite possibly Bravo-HD, although that reamains to be seen.

Bandwidth is the issue now. Look for Comcast to keep squeezing out their analog customers.

If the NESN-produced Sox games end up on UPN38 in HD (i.e. home Friday night baseball games) I suspect they will pick up 38 in short order.

TMC-HD is actually listed in my rate guide from December, but I wonder if that's just a typo.

Just got off the phone to Comcast requesting a swap to the 6200 box. The CSR asked me why and I told him I wanted the firewire port even though I know it is not enabled yet. He checked with operations and told me there are no current plans in place to enable the firewire port in the northeast region. He did say DVI would be enabled next week I believe. But my 2 HDTVs do not have DVI so that means nothing to me. So no 6200 box for now.

somone posted in the rear display forum that comcast told them monday the 16th they are enabling DVI ports......is the advantage that good to use DVI over component? i was watching HD over component and was pretty impressed.

mac...I have 2 TVs with built-in digital tuners and the pictures from Comcast look just as good on the locals as OTA. I doubt there will be a noticeable difference with DVI.

so i shouldn't waste my money or time buying a dvi cable right now? (my current dvd player does not support it). hdtv looked STUNNING this weekend through the component input.

Originally posted by macd23
so i shouldn't waste my money or time buying a dvi cable right now? (my current dvd player does not support it). hdtv looked STUNNING this weekend through the component input.


In light of the earlier comment about POSSIBLE PQ improvement with DVI over component (skeptical), I think the verdict on DVI performance will need to wait until users on this forum can provide some feedback...

Originally posted by YesJim
In light of the earlier comment about POSSIBLE PQ improvement with DVI over component (skeptical), I think the verdict on DVI performance will need to wait until users on this forum can provide some feedback...

Especially since I need to shell out $240 for a good dvi swich box.
(gefen)

That was me, I talked to Comcast and posted it. I would have to agree, I don't know how much better the HD could be, BUT, from what I understand, SD quality is better through DVI. SD through the Comcast HD box is very poor, so every little bit helps.

I don't see how SD could be better from DVI as the poor quality is from the Motorola's scaler, and not really a function of the connection. DVI could look better just because of how your display works or the 6200 could have a better scaler (which I doubt).

I output all analog/digital SD at 480i. Looks better to my eyes.

yeah i will wait and see the user responses to DVI.......for now if I am going to watch SD for an extended period (and its not on the hd channels) I will switch to antenna, it looks better there.

wow. just getting my first look at nesn HD via inhd2........beanpot finals, looks awesome! i hope the sox look this good! will save me some money (less trips to fenway, lol)

Originally posted by macd23
wow. just getting my first look at nesn HD via inhd2........beanpot finals, looks awesome! i hope the sox look this good! will save me some money (less trips to fenway, lol) Trust me...anything outdoors on a grass field (baseball, football, soccer, etc.) blows away an HD ice rink.

Originally posted by macd23
wow. just getting my first look at nesn HD via inhd2........beanpot finals, looks awesome! i hope the sox look this good! will save me some money (less trips to fenway, lol)

My thoughts exactly, can't wait for the Sox. The night I got HD from Comcast, the Bruins were on ESPNHD and were broadcast in HD (not ESPN's stretching of SD on HD) and I could not believe my eyes. I had not watched more than 10 minutes of a Bruins game in 10 years, but I could not take my eyes off it. On the other hand, I watch every Sox game and if it looks as good as the Superbowl, it will be sweet.

All these conflicting dates for DVI to become active are killing me. First it was the 9th, then I heard the 20th, now 16th??? Does anyone know the exact for sure date? My m500 DVI cable is waiting........

Originally posted by xbigjoe
All these conflicting dates for DVI to become active are killing me. First it was the 9th, then I heard the 20th, now 16th??? Does anyone know the exact for sure date? My m500 DVI cable is waiting........


The official email that we received said Wed or Thurs depending on the town. So by the time people are coming to on Thurs you should be good to go. Assuming all goes well.

Originally posted by scorchedangel
Something else I came across. I believe there are 2 versions of the 5100 box. The DCT 5100 and the DCT 5100-005. The 5100-005 is the one that actually has the DVI and Firewire ports opened up. I know there has been conflicting rumors to what is what with those.


I have a 5100 and it has a DVI port, it also has usb ports but it doesn't look like it has a firewire port (not exactly sure what one looks like). Are there only two different versions of the 5100 ?

firewire looks like a bigger usb port. its labeled IEEE 1394. i have 2 on the back of my 6200 if i recall correctly.

DVI not getting rave rewiews for improving PQ on Moto 5100 upgrade topic.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=194404&highlight=5100

Originally posted by Gabatta
DVI not getting rave rewiews for improving PQ on Moto 5100 upgrade topic.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=194404&highlight=5100

Some one correct me if I wrong but I was under the impression that DVI will benefit those with DLP chip most since the entire path is digital.

I wish the motorola boxes would allow the signal to pass through in its native resolution.

Is DVI worth it if you have a 36" CRT tube HDTV? My set does have a DVI input. Right now have Moto 5100 box. Also, more HDTV channels , I bet all premium channels (HBO, etc) left on analog will go to Digital only soon. Can think of a couple I would like to see go from analog to digital ,but I guess it depends on contracts with providers. Also, a question for City of Boston Comcast customers, is there still 2 lines going in , and did Comcast upgrade both or just 1 line from 450 Mhz to 750-800Mhz from old Cablevision lines?

Your right, The official dates are 11th and 12th. It will enable DVI and Firewire ports.

Hi Xbigjoe, how do you know these are the dates? Do you work for comcast? Are you the person doing the upgrades? :)

Dozens,
Potentially, DLP display owners have the most to gain from DVI.
DLP is "native" 720P. So, 720P video most likely will not be converted to
analog from the 5100/6200 to the display. And once it gets to the display,
the video won't have to be scaled to a different resolution, eg, 1024x768,
1280x768, 1366x768, etc. So, the less "mucking" with the video,
the better. The reason why I say "most likely" above is that some DVI input
or output devices have been know to "cheat" for some reason and convert
DVI to analog and then back to digital (and vice versa). One of the reasons may be
it's any easy way to get a DVI/HDCP signal in/out using existing circuitry.
Most DVI/HDCP inputs/outputs on consumer electronics are for copy
protection and if better PQ ensues, well that's just a nice side effect. :)
The exception to this are the DVI/HDMI output DVD players. The digital
output is there explicitly for bettering the PQ on the display device.

Like DaveFi said, I'm not expecting any PQ improvement with DVI on the
5100. Besides, my DVI port on my display is already tied up with my
DVD player. If will have to take a big improvement over component
to spend the $$$ on a DVI switch.

larry

Edit: One thing I saw from the link above, some people complained
about changes (washed out) in color and such when switching to DVI.
This may not be a bad thing. You are switching inputs on your display
and may not have calibrated the display on the DVI input for the 5100.
Typically the PQ improvemts will be more detail and sharper images
when using DVI. So, if you do try the DVI and it looks different,
recalibrate brightness/contrast etc the best you can, then see if it
is any different than component.

Sorry for the long post. But DVI is not a better PQ guarantee and switching
to DVI for the first time is more than using a different cable.

A poster in a thread in the programming section is reporting that Comcast in the bay area is tenatively getting Bravo-HD and Disc-HD in April. Presumably if they're getting those channels in SF, Comcast should have a national agreement with them...

Nothing is confirmed yet, but just an FYI.

http://www.bravotv.com/HDPlus/
There's not much on Bravo-HD. Some Jazz, but basically the same stuff over and over.

Who do I call to reserve a 6200?

If you want a 6200 box, the best thing I can honestly suggest is to call customer service and ask to speak to one of the high definition reps. This way, you have an excellent chance of getting either myself or one of the reps who I work closely with. We understand the demand and the reason better since we all basically read off of this forum. The problem at that point is getting the boxes to the proper warehouse and out into the field. I tried to secure that but it keeps slipping once it leaves my hands.

At some point, I'll just pick up the slack and deliver 6200 boxes straight to the homes. But before we get to that point, my best suggestion is to call during the day and ask for a HD rep.

Sorry I haven't been on lately but I've been dealing with some issues. But there is enough of us from the New England call centers reading this forum to be able to put together a quick response.

Ok, thanks. I'll give it a shot tommorow. Lucky for me the Natick Comcast warehouse is right down the street from me and I know the supervisor. So if I can't get any results this way I'll contact him directly.

I don't think I'll bother untill I know for certain Firewire is active.

Maybe nothing on Bravo now, but my understanding of an urban legend is that there will be lots of HD Olympics on Bravo this year. It sure would be nice. Besides, I'd like to see the "over and over" the first time.

Rich N.

is some will be active tomorrow morning.

Does anyone have any really good links where I can get technical information on DVI, FireWire, S-video and component?

Well this morning at 3:04a.m. I got the 7.07 firmware that enabled my DVI and Firewire and fied the clock issue. After messing aroung with the cable on my Sony XBR910 everything looks awesome. You can notice a slight diffence on HD and on analog sources are a little darker. All in all doesn't bother me. Please post any findings, I still want to know what to try with the firewire now.

Joe...are you sure the firewire is enabled? I was informed by the Comcast CSR 2 days ago that there are no plans to enable firewire in the northeast for the foreseeable future.

No plans right now for activating FireWire. Today and tomorrow we are updating the boxes to handle DVI and also fix the clock issue.

Firewire is active on the new firmware loaded this morning. I play Call of Duty with one of the engineers responsible for the digital platform in this region and he said DVI, Firewire, and clock fix were the primary additions to this firmware.

My 6200 was updated to 7.07 here in NH. Can anyone give any feedback about PQ through DVI with a Samsung DLP? I don't have a DVI cable yet.

Thanks,
Steve

Cables explained (simplified):

http://www.hometheaterpeople.com/advanced/default.asp

My 5100 now has firmware 7.07 as well.

It has been reported in other areas that firmware 7.07 activates both DVI and firewire on the 6200, albeit firewire is a little buggy.

I tried the "HD Specialist" line at Comcast and nobody picked up the phone. Is there a direct phone number to call instead of going through the Comcast switchboard?

Ah well, I'll get a box eventually.

Originally posted by DaveFi
I tried the "HD Specialist" line at Comcast and nobody picked up the phone. Is there a direct phone number to call instead of going through the Comcast switchboard?

Ah well, I'll get a box eventually. Dave...I called 1-800-COMCAST this morning and told the CSR I wanted to upgrade to the 6200 box. She didn't give me any argument about it and set up an install for next Tuesday. I'm not convinced the IEEE1394 port is enabled yet but I at least want the box in the advent that it does get enabled.

Incidentally they did finally update the Comcast New England website to include the 6200 box as an option.

No way am I paying $20 for them to swap the box out.
And then when I want to upgrade to a 6208 I have to pay again?

They can stuff it!

Is the 6200 the only way to go to get a firewire port? I would love to use my D-VCR to record off Comcast as well as OTA. It that what others are thinking and why I should upgrade to the 6200. Does it cost more per month?
Thanks.

I don't think there is a different cost/month for the 6200 v. the 5100. I called to schedule an install today and had it noted to bring the 6200, I will not accept the 5100; there was no mention of a difference in cost.

Originally posted by D_Doherty
I don't think there is a different cost/month for the 6200 v. the 5100. I called to schedule an install today and had it noted to bring the 6200, I will not accept the 5100; there was no mention of a difference in cost.



There is no difference in cost. I can assure you.

Anyone give recording a try? Don't have my DVHS yet....

Thanks,
Chris

Yes, The firewire is active. And the other thing is you guys don't know how to play the game. You call Comcast and you tell them to set up a trouble call and your (5100) box is acting up. You simply ask them to bring a newer box if available and hint aroung to the 6200. Now do you pay? The answer is no.

I just had my 5100 upgraded to a 6200. Went to the local comcast outlet and asked the lady very nicely to call the warehouse manager and schedule a 6200. You will hear everyone say "what's a 6200"? Until you get the warehouse guy. Then they dispatch and you're set.

Now-- how do you know when your box is upgrading? The installer said to leave it on channel 5-- is that true? He also said you need 2-way communication to upgrade-- is that true? It's working fine without 2-way (my amplifier blocks return) in normal video watching mode. I thought they just passively listen to a data channel for upgrades.



Spearse

No, not true. It's not like the old cable boxes. Your box will upgrade ON or OFF, regardless of channel.

I'd rather not be dishonest. It's not like the 5200 boxes are any great shakes to begin with- mine locks up occasionally.

xbigjoe, Just did that they will be here 9-11am tomorrow with a 6200 no charge! I just asked if the 6200 had better sd and the tech said he'd send somebody out with a 6200. Just wanted to stay honest!:O)
I hope the dvi will be active on it though!

Guys, you know that there are Comcast reps who lurk here, and by saying how you're scamming them doesn't exactly engender good feelings.

I for one am greatfull for all the help the various Comcast reps have been giving us in the last 6 months or so. They are making a concerted effort to change their ways.

Nobody is scamming anybody! The boxes are rented and we should get the upgraded boxes no charge anyway...My comcast bill each month is 120 dollars. I think upgrading the box is no big deal to them anyway.
As far as the comcast reps lurking here, of course they are....We are free beta testers and some of us don't even know it.

I have an active DVI port that I have used and I am dissapointed. On my set, Sammy DLP, the component looks better and has less noise

I agree, the local comcast tech I had was terrific. He came with a 6200, offered to install but I did it; then he called me tonight and said they weren't seeing it activated. He came back tonight, late, and fixed my line and levels so everything works great. This is a new breed of cable company I am seeing. I'm not so upset at dropping Dish (who just dropped support of my 5000 sat box).
Spearse

Since this is the same firmware as the other locations, I assume recording of ESPN, INHD and NBC is fubar (lock ups) on a dvhs deck. Can someone please verify?

Thanks,
Chris

Comcast reps lurk here? I thought I was pretty much out of the closet about being a Comcaster. I am not hear because my manager asked me to be here. I came onto this forum because I wanted to. It helps find the trouble spots in the HD system and to gather new technical info as new things are added (DVI, FireWire)

If you are new to this forum or just returning, then you know there has been an all out effort by us just because we are techies like you. Trust me, I would prefer to deal with every single one of you on a daily basis then the people I had to speak to today. None of us is trying to scam you. Comcast is legit. If you do not think our services are worth the price, then I'm sorry. I personally do not think half the movies in the theaters are worth $10 a person. But people pay them anyways. Comcast took over a year ago this coming Tuesday. Think back a year and look at how much has change. On Demand, High Definition services, and an improved customer service department. I make sure all of my reps take care of the customer we speak to with excellence. Any issues? PM me. Other members here already know I am serious about this.

I have been eagerly awaiting the upgrade to 7.07 and am still on some 5.xx version of the firmware on my 5100. My DVI cable is ready to go.

Am I last in MA or just the only person with this level of antipation anxiety?

JS

therob006 is right. Our local cable service has improved 100%. AND we are lucky to have InHD 1 & 2; comcast on West Coast don't have those channels and they are GREAT. Meanwhile Dish has made a lot of my puchased (! vs. rented with comcast) equipment obsolete this week when they moved their HD sats requiring new equipment. Goodbye Dish.
Spearse

Most likely because of the size of this Comcast region, they break the new firmware loads up into smaller chunks. Minimize any potential problems to a smaller user base.

Spearse, no you don't need to have your return active or be on channel 5 to get the firmware uploaded. However, without your return active you won't be able to use VOD (even the free stuff).

Originally posted by DooDoo
I have an active DVI port that I have used and I am dissapointed. On my set, Sammy DLP, the component looks better and has less noise

interesting......when you say it looks better on component, are you referring to HD content? i will not buy a DVI cable if this is the case...
i have a sammy 43" dlp

Quick question, is there a difference between the 5100 and the 6200 when viewing sd?
Also I might add, comcast is a lot better than at&t was. INHD is so stunning, I am very satisfied and will be patient while some of the few bugs are worked out.

Ok so far I have heard nothing but complaints about the Samsung HDTVs. Does anyone know whats going on with them? I 've heard of many discoloration issues. The SD content seems to look particularly worse on their TVs, and people just seem generally unhappy. Does anyone know whats going on with Samsung?

SAMSUNG in general are very picky and can be difficult to get working properly. It seems most people are buying Samsung these days because of $. I have called Samsung many, many times and have never got one good answer. Very poor support and my OPION, poor tv set. Buy a Sony;);)

Oh, Buy the way. How is setting up a trouble call a scam? Do you not deserve to get your problem fixed? Your missing firewire ports, That's a problem. Someother guy pays the same as me and has them. You can't disagree with that.

Originally posted by macd23
interesting......when you say it looks better on component, are you referring to HD content? i will not buy a DVI cable if this is the case...
i have a sammy 43" dlp

Me and my wife looked at some HD content, some non-HD content on the HD channels and some standard def. To my and her eyes, the component looked better. I thought it was odd bc the DVI looks so good for DVD.

I have an active DVI port that I have used and I am dissapointed. On my set, Sammy DLP, the component looks better and has less noise

DooDoo, where ya been? :) What happened to your sig?

How do you have your stb output set? 720P and 480i overide to 720p?
It's quite possible that DVI will not look better than component
on the 5100/6200 boxes.

larry

Originally posted by xbigjoe
SAMSUNG in general are very picky and can be difficult to get working properly. It seems most people are buying Samsung these days because of $. I have called Samsung many, many times and have never got one good answer. Very poor support and my OPION, poor tv set. Buy a Sony;);)

I have a Samsung 46" DLP. I would not say it was any more difficult to get working than any other TV. I took me about of week of researching HDTV and the Samsung TV get it set up the way I like it. The HD PQ is stunning to say the least. Live broadcasts are even more amazing in HD.

I definatly did not buy this TV becase it was less expensive. I was significaltly more than the rest. I was going to get a sony, but after much reseach found there were some issues that needed to be worked out.

SD is another story. Is it worse than my old Sony Trinitron?, on some programs yes. I really depends on the source. Some sources look better than others, like SD on the HD channels. However if you have a bad source the digital TV brings out the worst. Most SD content is perfectly fine. What I have found is that I compare everything to the HD PQ. DVD's look great, but don't compare to HD.

I have not purchased a DVI cable yet. I have not heard enough positive feedback from DLP owners.

Thanks,
Steve

I may have missed this in this thread, but I was reading in one
of the recent HT rags that in Dec 2003 it was "decreed" that cable
companies at the request of a customer must swap out or provide
a cable box with IEEE 1394 (firewire) output. It didn't mention whether
or not it had to be free of charge. :)

larry

7.07 is here in Randolph, MA! I checked last night at 10 pm and was still old version, but as of this morning, it's upgraded. Will check out the DVI picture tonight. Just one question though...I have a DVI-D cable that came with a computer monitor, can I use that, or do I need a DVI-I. I have the 6200 box, and my tv is a 36" Sony Wega,KV-36HS510.

Originally posted by scorchedangel
Ok so far I have heard nothing but complaints about the Samsung HDTVs. Does anyone know whats going on with them? I 've heard of many discoloration issues. The SD content seems to look particularly worse on their TVs, and people just seem generally unhappy. Does anyone know whats going on with Samsung?

scorched, i just got a sammy 43" DLP and so far I am extremely happy with it. HD looks INCREDIBLE on this tv. SD varies from 'very good' to 'awful'.......I find that if I stary in the HD channels, when they aren't broadcasting in HD, their SD looks very good (it must be getting upconverted or something). the stuff on the other SD channels varies from awful to ok.......of course if i switch off of component3 to antenna, it looks better for SD, but not great. i assume most large screen TVs make SD look sh!tty because it blows up the imperfections. anyway i watch mostly HD and DVDs so I am thrilled with it so far.


ps: no problems at all so far. KNOCK ON WOOD.

All set out here in Sterling w/ the new firmware... Anyone try recording yet?

Originally posted by D_Doherty
Cables explained (simplified):

http://www.hometheaterpeople.com/advanced/default.asp

Looking at the DVI cables pictures on this site, maybe I do not have the proper type of cable. The DVI cable I have, as I mentioned, came with a computer monitor and it has only 19 pins, a group of 9, a space, another group of 9, then a straight pin. Help!

I've had my Samsung 43" DLP since October, and my wife and I are thrilled with it. Coupled with a Samsung HD931 hi-def DVD player, through DVI, movies are incredible. HD channels are also awesome, although we get more limited offerings thru Adelphia than you do (ABC, NBC, FOX & PBS). SD channels are more than acceptable...one thing about Adelphia...their feed is quite good, so the picture is very crisp. If the source is bad, however, such as PAX or WNDS, it does magnify the deficiencies.

Overall, I'd recommend it highly.

Originally posted by PooperScooper
DooDoo, where ya been? :) What happened to your sig?

How do you have your stb output set? 720P and 480i overide to 720p?
It's quite possible that DVI will not look better than component
on the 5100/6200 boxes.

larry

Whats up man? I have my box set to 720p with the 4x3 override off. The DVI looked washed out compared to the component. I dont know why. I have been caught up in the audio bug lately. I thought this stuff was bad but audio enthusiasts are absolutely insane :)

I got 7.07 on my 6200 last night. Very nice, I can now timeshift NBC, ABC, CBS, Fox and the InHD's. ESPNHD won't play through the JVC 30k.

Now I can survive until the 6208 comes out!

My 5100 updated last night. It does look like there has been some PQ improvments. The digital channels are slower to lock now, takes noticably longer for the picture to come in.

Originally posted by joeinma
Looking at the DVI cables pictures on this site, maybe I do not have the proper type of cable. The DVI cable I have, as I mentioned, came with a computer monitor and it has only 19 pins, a group of 9, a space, another group of 9, then a straight pin. Help!

You DO have a DVI cable.

Couldn't disagree more on the negative Samsung DLP comments on this thread. I have a 56". Incredible HD picture, fair price, highest light output of any HD TV avail, no burn in & a user replaceable $200 bulb returning set to 100% light output.
GREAT TV. In a different class than any Plasma, Rear Projection, Tube, LCD TV on the market. LCOS has potential but as anyone who has followed this technology knows it is way too new and filled with serious manufacturing problems. DLP based technology has been proving itself for 20 years (previously in the projector world). Is SD great.............NO!......do I optimize for SD.............NO! I didn't buy this TV to watch an inferior signal that is going the way of the dinosaur..................and rapidly!

If all settings are correct the DVI into the Samsung should definitely improve the picture just by virtue of the reduced analog to digital conversions.


Just my 2 cents guys.............

PS And thanks to all the Comcast support on this thread providing us with great information & help!

Originally posted by FMD
Couldn't disagree more on the negative Samsung DLP comments on this thread. Is SD great.............NO!......do I optimize for SD.............NO! I didn't buy this TV to watch an inferior signal that is going the way of the dinosaur..................and rapidly!


exactly!

Originally posted by spearse
I got 7.07 on my 6200 last night. Very nice, I can now timeshift NBC, ABC, CBS, Fox and the InHD's. ESPNHD won't play through the JVC 30k.

Now I can survive until the 6208 comes out!

Please let us know how you are time shifting. I assume some kind of recording over firewire. I am thinking of building a HTPC and no idea where to start. I would really like a pizza box PC that could fit in my AV rack.

Originally posted by FMD

If all settings are correct the DVI into the Samsung should definitely improve the picture just by virtue of the reduced analog to digital conversions.


I know this is an HD thread, but regarding the newly activated DVI on the 6200. What are the setting for the DLP. I am a very new DLP owner.

Thanks,
Steve

sspearse-

NBC is working OK for you with a 30k?? There are reports from tons o people on the recording forum it has problems with NBC, INHD1/2 and ESPN. I just want to verify NBC though for some programming this weekend.

Thanks,
Chris

Ok good I'm glad to see that some people out there are enjoying the Samsung models. More often than not they just seemed to generate the most problem calls that I get here. The most happy customers seem to have either Mistubishi or Hitachi. Thanks for all the feedback.

Originally posted by dlp_steve
I know this is an HD thread, but regarding the newly activated DVI on the 6200. What are the setting for the DLP. I am a very new DLP owner.

Thanks,
Steve

Steve,
Still awaiting DVI activation in Fairhaven. As soon as I get it I will begin experimenting and will report back what I find

The 5100 I have has a DVI port, but the 7.07 firmware says DVI isn't activated. I don't have a DVI device to test it with.

Chris,
Only ESPN is giving me audio but blue screen via JVC 30k. Note I my JVC firmware upgraded a few months ago. Also I forgot to include WGBH is fine.

Spearse

dozens-
Just plug the 6200 into a JVC 30k or 40k via firewire and you're done.
Spearse

I didn't get around to ordering a JVC before it'd get here for the weekend... anyone selling them locally? How did you get your firmware updated on the JVC?

Thanks,
'Chris

Originally posted by perrycom
You DO have a DVI cable.

Thanks! I realized that after posting as I found a link from one of the ads at the top of the forums that had a page that gave detailed pictures and descriptions. I was confused when I read something saying 24 pins, and since the cable I have didn't have 19, I was lost.

Now I cannot wait to get home and try it out! :D

I didn't get around to ordering a JVC before it'd get here for the weekend... anyone selling them locally? How did you get your firmware updated on the JVC?If you purchase a new unit, most likely you'll get one with updated firmware already- you almost certainly will if you pick up a refurb. You might do better that route- many of us on the forum picked up a refurb for $300 or less.

If you're going to purchase a new one you should probably purchase the newer 40K anyways. Check out the HDTV Recorders forum.

Ok, I should know by now not to use the normal support channels. I contacted someone I know at Comcast and they're going to bring me a 6200 over. Nice to be able to finally use my 30K.

Good points. I was trying to get one for Sunday though, so mail order (minus 80$ for shipping) is probably out of the question. Hopefully someone knows of a local vendor..

Thanks,
Chris

CompUSA carries the JVC 40k for $799. I did a check for my local zip code and almost all the stores in NH and Northern MA had it in stock. Just goto compusa.com and look under VCRs and then put in your zipcode. Best Buy I think carries them too, however I don't see them on their webpage.

Here is an interesting question for anyone who does not have a dvi-d cable. When the comcast installers came to put in you hi-def boxes they had a bag full of wires to set up any video that we might have right. So now that dvi is working shouldn't we be able to get some kind of standard dvi cable? What do think. could save us some money.

Just curious what kind of HDTV displays you folks who are trying to get the firewire boxes have. I hope you all realize that your TV needs a firewire port for an HDTV VCR to connect to. I know the Mits TVs with NetCommand have the firewire port, but I'm not clear on what other brands also have it.

As of last night in Taunton, the firmware was 5.02.

Might have changed since it is almost 330Pm now.

Originally posted by tcable
As of last night in Taunton, the firmware was 5.02.

Might have changed since it is almost 330Pm now. 7.07 in Taunton now.

DooDoo said:

The DVI looked washed out compared to the component. I dont know why.

As I mentioned in a post the other day, sometimes DVI inputs on displays need
separate calibration vs the component inputs. Try tweaking contrast/brightness etc.

larry

Originally posted by househusband36
Here is an interesting question for anyone who does not have a dvi-d cable. When the comcast installers came to put in you hi-def boxes they had a bag full of wires to set up any video that we might have right. So now that dvi is working shouldn't we be able to get some kind of standard dvi cable? What do think. could save us some money.

I asked, they said the DVI cables were too expensive. They also said the bag of cables was for their high end customers. He brought the box in first, he seemed to check to see if I had cables, then came in with a bag. The tech also said the cables were on the same level as Monster Cables. I got the impression Comcast did not want to give the bag-O- cables if they did not have to. I bet customers are returning the boxes when they move, but keeping the cables.

Steve

Just curious what kind of HDTV displays you folks who are trying to get the firewire boxes have. I hope you all realize that your TV needs a firewire port for an HDTV VCR to connect to. I know the Mits TVs with NetCommand have the firewire port, but I'm not clear on what other brands also have it.

That is incorrect. You can run firewire from the 6200 to the JVC 30k/40k and component from the JVC to the HDTV display. You do not need a firewire port on the display itself.

This is slightly OT. Anyone here doing cable modulation ? I just got a ReplayTv unit that I want to make it headless and use a cable modulator so I could watch it in any room of the house.

I understand the concept of what cable modulators do but have no experience with them.

Comcast guys - what channel would you recommand that I modulate onto ?

Steve,
Thats kinda funny, because when I got my 6200 box set up around Christmas. The tech brought in all the wires and ask me if i need him to set it up. He said that most people with home theaters like to set up the wires themselves so he gave me the bag and did a basic set up and left. I am hooking the box up to a fp panasonic projector I guess he didn't want to bother trying to figure it out where all the wire went

oh well

Originally posted by johnovox
That is incorrect. You can run firewire from the 6200 to the JVC 30k/40k and component from the JVC to the HDTV display. You do not need a firewire port on the display itself. I stand corrected.

Originally posted by dozens
This is slightly OT. Anyone here doing cable modulation ? I just got a ReplayTv unit that I want to make it headless and use a cable modulator so I could watch it in any room of the house.

I understand the concept of what cable modulators do but have no experience with them.

Comcast guys - what channel would you recommand that I modulate onto ?

I've found that Comcast in MA hasn't left me with any free channels to use for modulation. I worked around this by filtering out catv channels 64-70 with this (http://www.partsexpress.com/pe/showdetl.cfm?&User_ID=2096064&St=5644&St2=68652347&St3=67501627&DS_ID=3&Product_ID=118485&DID=7) notch filter and modulate TiVo's on channels 66 and 68.

I can confirm that Comcat analog cable and HDTV (with LG tuner) work perfectly with this setup.

Originally posted by sbourgeo
I've found that Comcast in MA hasn't left me with any free channels to use for modulation. I worked around this by filtering out catv channels 64-70 with this (http://www.partsexpress.com/pe/showdetl.cfm?&User_ID=2096064&St=5644&St2=68652347&St3=67501627&DS_ID=3&Product_ID=118485&DID=7) notch filter and modulate TiVo's on channels 66 and 68.

I can confirm that Comcat analog cable and HDTV (with LG tuner) work perfectly with this setup.

Can you recommand a modulator and good site to buy it from ?

On paper it seems real trival to hookup, is it in practice ?

How do you control your Tivos remotely, with an RF remote ?

Originally posted by Schlotkins
I didn't get around to ordering a JVC before it'd get here for the weekend... anyone selling them locally? How did you get your firmware updated on the JVC?

Thanks,
'Chris
I'm not 100% sure you must have updated firmware on JVC. I read others had problems playing cleanly, and I happened to have no problems. It is possible to send your deck in for refurbishment, do a search on the recorders forum.

Spearse

Originally posted by dozens
Can you recommand a modulator and good site to buy it from ?

On paper it seems real trival to hookup, is it in practice ?

How do you control your Tivos remotely, with an RF remote ?

Depends on how much you want to spend and if you want stereo sound, etc. A really cheap way to do it would be to get a cheap channel 3/4 modulator like this (http://www.partsexpress.com/pe/showdetl.cfm?&User_ID=2096064&St=5644&St2=68652347&St3=67501627&DS_ID=3&Product_ID=4364&DID=7). I'm sure there is a Radio Shack equivalent that would do the job just fine.

I have the CHANNEL PLUS 3025 (http://www.partsexpress.com/pe/showdetl.cfm?&User_ID=2096064&St=5644&St2=68652347&St3=67501627&DS_ID=3&Product_ID=4422&DID=7). It was simple to setup and does a nice job of modulating the output of two devices.

You control it by sticking a 5V IR blaster on your Replay and having an 2133 IR target (http://www.partsexpress.com/pe/pshowdetl.cfm?&DID=7&Partnumber=180-705) near each TV you want to control the Replay from.

For sources, I've had good luck dealing with Worthington Distribution (http://www.worthdist.com/) and Parts Express (http://www.partsexpress.com).

Feel free to PM me if you want more info.


Steve

Just a warning:

I find that ReplayTVs tend to be incredibly picky about infrared repeaters. I've gone through a few brands, and find that some just won't pass a ReplayTV remote signal. Why that would be is beyond me. No such trouble with IR repeaters on any of the other components in my HT system.

Originally posted by toots
Just a warning:

I find that ReplayTVs tend to be incredibly picky about infrared repeaters. I've gone through a few brands, and find that some just won't pass a ReplayTV remote signal. Why that would be is beyond me. No such trouble with IR repeaters on any of the other components in my HT system.

That's interesting... They can't possibly be worse than the Moto DCT-2xxx cable boxes though. :D

Quite to the contrary:

I find that the only time my DCT-2000 responds to a remote command is when someone in the other room is using a cable remote, doesn't have it pointed at the repeater, the IR bugs are pointed away from the DCT-2000, and the DCT-2000 has its front covered explicitly to make sure no stray IR signals bleed in from anyplace other than the designated PVR bugs.

Then, it responds to remote sequences just fine. It just doesn't respond when something's actually directed at it.

;)

I didn't get around to ordering a JVC before it'd get here for the weekend... anyone selling them locally? How did you get your firmware updated on the JVC?Must you have it immediately? I'd never pay retail on consumer electronics like this anymore. You purchase the 40K online you'll find it for <$650.

Look for a 30K refurb ~$300 if you don't mind refurbs. They'll pop again.

Is anyone experiencing audio static in SD since last night? Seems to be on most channels.

Steve

7.07 is now loaded on my 5100 and I tried the DVI output.
I wasn't expecting any and I got no visible improvement over
DVI vs component. I had both connected and switched back and
forth between inputs on my Fujitsu P50XHA10US plasma. HD
and SD looked the same. I used both 1080i and 720P.

Using a DVI ouput DVD player, the only way I could see a slight
improvement via DVI is with some test patterns. So this is why
I didn't expect any improvement with the 5100 and DVI. The native
rate on my plasma is 1366x768 so the plasma still has to "touch"
the incoming video.

Regardless of input type, HD looks awesome on my display and SD
via the 5100 looks better than my D* satellite (for most decent channels).

All this talk of firewire and JVC D-VHS decks has got me thinking. I haven't
bought any new toys in a while... :)

larry

DVI working here, I agree with larry, no huge difference from component. And my DVI cable is not quite long enough to reach without some equipment shuffling...well, I guess I'd have to get that DVI switcher anyway, so it's somewhat a moot point. No firewire port on my 5100, maybe I'll try to get it swapped for a 6200. Wish there was more info on when the 6208 is going to be available.

After "playing" most of the evenng with the 6200, I will say it is much better. After calabrating the dvi imput sd is so much better than component was on the 5100 or s-video. Just for the speed of channel changes it was worth the phone call and the "next" day free install of the 6200.

7.07 active in Fairhaven last night. I have a DCT-5100 Moto. Did some preliminary tests with the DVI vs Component. Used a reasonably priced ($22) DVI cable from Pacific Cable.
With a Samsung DLP there is a definite improvement in sharpness & clarity based on my A/B without any tweaking. I didn't notice any significant color differences. This is despite a comparison vs a $200 component cable. In theory and practice DVI seems to be the way to go on the DLP's.

Note: In previous testing of DVI on a DVD player I wasn't that impressed. If you have a good DVD player (I have the Sony DVP-S9000ES) and drop down to the Bravo D1 w/DVI, you won't get much of an improvement (and will lose a ton on the audio side). Looking forward to some good DVD players with DVI though.

FMD
Good to hear. The nicest thing about DLP is that its native rate
is 720P. Your 720P signal leaves the 5100 and is not perturbed later. :)
Interesting comment about the D1 and your Sammy. Most other
comments I remember reading indicate any DVI output player at 720P
is a big improvement over component with DLP displays (in general).

re: 6200
There's a channel change speedup? I'm there! :) I think I'll see about
upgrading. I'm also slowly talking myself into a D-VHS deck.

So what's the strategy to get a free 6200 upgrade? Just call? Secret
passwords?

larry

Just an observation.I have a sammy 507 and have been doing comparisons between the dvi and component on sd channels.I have the 5100 with the new 7.07 firmware.I notice that when I switch to the dvi input the width of the picture shrinks by 1 inch.The aspect is set to tv wide.The hd channels fill the screen so it just seems to be an issue with sd.Any thoughts.

Check the 5100 menu, my bet is you're set at 480i instead of 480p.

JTMav

Defraggerman,
Just one inch black bars for SD? Tha't odd. Normally DVI input on a display cannot
be stretched. So you should see black bars for 4:3 SD. 480i can't be sent over
DVI so who knows what the 5100 does with the signal if you have 480 override set
to 480i. Also, check your 5100 config. The firmware upgrade reset all my settings.
Is is still set to 16x9 display?

larry

Look for a 30K refurb ~$300 if you don't mind refurbs. They'll pop again.

Yea, I guess I can be a little patient. I was hoping to record the 500 this weekend in HD, but it appears that isn't going to happen so no huge rush. If someone is recording it, let me know.

Sspeare, any luck on ESPN or is it still just audio?

Chris

EDIT: For the record, SSpeare is the first person I've hear with the JVC that can record NBC, INHD with no dropouts or problems. Check this thread:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&postid=3372345#post3372345

If it truely is a firmware issue, that would be great... Is there anyway to check the firmware version on the JVC?

A few questions for people w/the 6200, DVHS, and a HAVI tv...

1. Is the 6200's 1394 port 4 or 6 pin?

2. How are people w/1394 tvs and DVCRs setting them up
a. 6200 -> TV <- DVHS
b. 6200 -> DVHS -> TV
c. DVHS -> 6200 -> TV
d. other

3. How are they recordings controlled
a. by the 6200
b. by the tv
c. by the VCR (is this possible)

4. is it possible to schedule recordings or are you just recording what is on?

Thanks,

Dave

I am considering switching from Directv to Comcast and I know there is a $400 credit available for the switch where Comcast takes your D* receiver and may or may not remove the dish itself.

I could care less about the dish, in fact I prefer that they remove it, but I want to hold on to my receiver, the Panny TU-HDS20, as it was very expensive and doubles as an over the air receiver. They can take the D* activation card if they want too, I just want the over the air capabilities which I can use to supplement the Comcast. They will make more money from me in the long run as I will sign up for the platinum package and leave D*.

Is there any way I can give up the dish but not the receiver and still get the credit?

I hooked up the DVI-D cable to the 6200 last night. HD programming did look a little washed out, however, when watching network HD programming (CSI, when it finally came on in HD, and ER), the DVI version seemed a little better than component to me. Watching ER with component, faces had a more reddish tint, in DVI, they were more flesh tone.

Overall, not really much of a difference.

RE: So what's the strategy to get a free 6200 upgrade? Just call? Secret
passwords?

The secret password is "please" when you talk to an HD rep.

Originally posted by joeinma
I hooked up the DVI-D cable to the 6200 last night. HD programming did look a little washed out, however, when watching network HD programming (CSI, when it finally came on in HD, and ER), the DVI version seemed a little better than component to me. Watching ER with component, faces had a more reddish tint, in DVI, they were more flesh tone.

Overall, not really much of a difference.

My HD seems washed out since the update is this possible? Maybe my settings changed, I have not checked. I use the cables comcast provided. Are they any good? I have not bought a DVI cable yet. Also I am getting some static on SD channels, but not on HD.

Steve

There seems to be some confusion at the ground level, as I received a phone call from a tech earlier this morning saying that the boxes are all in beta and they won't be available untill the summer.

poop.I'm sorry that you misunderstood.I have the normal black bars on the sides but when I switch to the dvi input the picture shrinks by 1 inch.It's not a big deal but I just thought it was strange.The box is set for 16 x 9,720p and 480 override off.

Originally posted by househusband36
Here is an interesting question for anyone who does not have a dvi-d cable. When the comcast installers came to put in you hi-def boxes they had a bag full of wires to set up any video that we might have right. So now that dvi is working shouldn't we be able to get some kind of standard dvi cable? What do think. could save us some money.

Comcast told me they would only supply component cable, DVI was up to me. There reasoning - not all areas have working DVI and not all HD's TV's have DVI. They all have component though. Got one on ebay for $20.

Originally posted by joeinma
I hooked up the DVI-D cable to the 6200 last night. HD programming did look a little washed out, however, when watching network HD programming (CSI, when it finally came on in HD, and ER), the DVI version seemed a little better than component to me. Watching ER with component, faces had a more reddish tint, in DVI, they were more flesh tone.

Overall, not really much of a difference. I think a lot of folks are forgetting that the DVI input on their sets is independent of the others so you need to adjust it to get good PQ. Even better, get your set calibrated by an ISF professional as I did. You can have them calibrate your DVI input, then you can copy the settings to the others. You wont get better PQ. I'm passing on DVI for my 5100 since that input on my set is already in use by my sammy dvd player so i'm not coughing up $ to get a geffen switcher until they downrez component. by the way PM me if you want a referral to the best ISF calibrator in the biz.

not sure if this was posted already, but when i bought all my cables i couldn't find better prices than this place. so you may want to check them out before you spend $100 on a dvi cable:

http://www.cablestogo.com

Is anybody still having audio drop out problems with HD or ON-demand? Please PM me and let me know.

Defraggerman,

Switch your 480 overide off to 480p, that should do it.

JTMav

Originally posted by therob006
Is anybody still having audio drop out problems with HD or ON-demand? Please PM me and let me know.

Is On-Demand in HD ? If not, why would we watch it :)

Actually, I watched the Wire in 5.1 through On-demand. But I am just doing some research to see if there is any problems continuing out there that I may not be aware of. I thought the WBZHD and ESPNHD were corrected.

http://www.pccables.com/

Originally posted by therob006
RE: So what's the strategy to get a free 6200 upgrade? Just call? Secret
passwords?

The secret password is "please" when you talk to an HD rep.


therob006 - I just called and requested the 6200 very politely. The HD rep insisted they cannot supply me with a 6200 box. I explained I was looking for the faster processor (slow channel changes on the 5100), firewire etc and he said he could get a tech out tomorrow to replace my box's internals (he said modem). He said it would essentially make my box a 6200

Dose this make any sense? I have an appointment tomorrow between 3&5.

Thanks in advance for any help!

I think a lot of folks are forgetting that the DVI input on their sets is independent of the others so you need to adjust it to get good PQ

Thanks, Avic, maybe they'll listen to you! :)

Defraggerman,
My reply was my second cut at your post cause I thought I misread it the first time. :)
You want 720P for everything. It's not uncommon to have to adjust your screen size a bit
for the DVI input. You should have screen size adjustments and horizontal and vertical
adjustments in the service menu.

larry

re: 6200 upgrade and such.

Thanks therob006. I'm always nice to phone CSRs, they have one of the hardest jobs
in the world, IMO. :)

As for what I posted the other day about December 2003 wrt settop boxes with firewire,
I should know better than to believe what I read in certain HT magazines (if they
have blind DVD reviewers, then what can I expect. :) ).

I just found an FCC doc that states:
• High-definition set-top boxes - Starting April 1, 2004, cable operators must supply, upon
request, high-definition set-top boxes with functional 1394 “firewire” connectors. By July
1, 2005, all high-definition set-top boxes would also require a digital visual interface
("DVI") or a high definition multimedia interface ("HDMI").

So, getting a 6200 upgrade now is Comcast being "nice".

larry

Folks- the best way I found to get a 6200 is to say your home theater requires firewire, and only the 6200 has that. Complaining about speed of 5100 I don't think would be sufficient.
Spearse

The people you're dealing with have to know they exist before you can get one.

It's hard explaining stuff to the techs who call, especially when they automatically assume they know more than the customer. I was trying to explain that the 6200 is readily available, and not the PVR but he just wasn't listening. I gave up.

If I have fw 7.07, does that mean I have the 6200 or can 7.07 also be the firmware for the 5100?

LarryJoe,

7.07 can also be the firmware for the 5100. That's what I have. The label on the bottom of the box will tell you what model you have.

After putting quite a few more hours into watching cable with the 6200 I got to say it is a HUGE improvement over the 5100 especially in dvi. Even my wife made a comment last night and she didn't know I had the box switched out!:O)

Originally posted by FMD
therob006 - I just called and requested the 6200 very politely. The HD rep insisted they cannot supply me with a 6200 box. I explained I was looking for the faster processor (slow channel changes on the 5100), firewire etc and he said he could get a tech out tomorrow to replace my box's internals (he said modem). He said it would essentially make my box a 6200

Dose this make any sense? I have an appointment tomorrow between 3&5.

Thanks in advance for any help!

Makes no sense to me whatsoever. I think the tech is just going to replace the box. Or at least he should. Are you sure you spoke to an HD rep? lol

Let me know how everything goes. Just PM me with the details.

Originally posted by PooperScooper
re: I just found an FCC doc that states:
• High-definition set-top boxes - Starting April 1, 2004, cable operators must supply, upon
request, high-definition set-top boxes with functional 1394 “firewire” connectors. By July
1, 2005, all high-definition set-top boxes would also require a digital visual interface
("DVI") or a high definition multimedia interface ("HDMI").

So, getting a 6200 upgrade now is Comcast being "nice".

larry

Can you send me that link for the FCC page? Also, if this cable company was still run by ATTBB, then the upgrade would have been on or about April 1, 2006 and then we would have a short supply of boxes. It is great working for a company that is so insightful. Now, I'm dreaming of free hotel stays and admission to Disney World.

Can you guys recommend some settings? I have Comcast HD with a Sony 60" LCDRP. I assume screen at 16:9 is fine, but should the HD be set to 720p or 1080i? Same type of question for SD, 480i or 480p? I am currently using component cables and have a DVI coming Monday. I am also having the TV calibrated Friday. From what I am reading here, it seems going DVI does not add to PQ and takes away from it in some cases. Not sure what to do here.

But my real questions are on the Comcast defailt settings, should I change them?

Thanks.

Did anyone else try DVHS recording?

Thanks,
Chris

LarryJoe,

I have the 60 GWIII also. In theory, the best thing is to go in and change the setting based upon how the channel is being broadcast 1080i vs 720p. In practice I think that 1080i looks best or as good on my equipment than 720p (ymmv). SD I have set to 480i.

I'm jealous your having it calibrated. I would think he will give you the best settings for DVI as well as the other connections. Let us know how it goes (maybe in the tweaks thread).

Good luck!

Larry,You should set your box to output 1080i. I believe that is what the sony's display natively.I have the 480 override set to off but I have a sammy so you should probably experiment with that.Let us know how the calibration goes.

Can you send me that link for the FCC page?

http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DOC-238850A1.pdf

If you cut-n-paste some of text in the previous post(s) in a quoted
string to google, it will pop up with a link to the PDF and converted
to HTML.

larry

GWII and GWIII owners, you may or may not know this, but it
could effect how DVI input looks on your display.

I knew the GWII converted DVI input to analog and then back to digital
to feed the LCD itself. I just saw a post that confirms that the GWIII does
the same thing

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=366209

By using DVI you are trying to avoid digital->analog or analog->digital
conversions that can degrade quality. So with the extra conversion
happening in the GWIIs and GWIIIs, you _may_ not see an improvement
with DVI input. This is also something to consider when deciding
whether or not to buy a DVI output DVD player.

Using DVI will lessen the chance of the analog video being "degraded" by
component cables/connections.

As always, let your own eyes be the judge. They are never wrong. :)

larry

Let's see if you get a 6200 FMD-

The tech who was supposed to come told me such a box didn't exist, so I wonder if they've really gotten enough to go around.

We'll all get one eventually, but when the guy tells you there's no such thing, there isn't much else you can do. Lol.

Comcast is only installing 6200s now. 5100s have been end of lifed by Motorola and haven't been produced for several months now. The way Comcast has been amping up their HD installs, no doubt some of the techs don't even realize they are installing with a 6200 as opposed to a 5100 considering they look the same.

ScoopsHD,
Not true, I just had a 5100 installed. Warehouse mgr says they have a large Moto contract with tons of 5100's in the warehouse. They are however trying to satisfy specific 6200 requests.
Spearse

Interesting... the field folks up here in NH are only installing 6200s as near as I can tell from talking with some of my friends. Perhaps they are turning around returned 5100s, cleaning them up, and sending them back out into the field rather then tossing them onto the heap. Would make sense to utilize what is available and filling 6200 requests as needed.

asking again...

Ppeople w/the 6200, DVHS, and a HAVI tv...

1. Is the 6200's 1394 port 4 or 6 pin?

2. How are people w/1394 tvs and DVCRs setting them up
a. 6200 -> TV <- DVHS
b. 6200 -> DVHS -> TV
c. DVHS -> 6200 -> TV
d. other

3. How are they recordings controlled
a. by the 6200
b. by the tv
c. by the VCR (is this possible)

4. is it possible to schedule recordings or are you just recording what is on?

Thanks,

Dave

Originally posted by hovbuild
After putting quite a few more hours into watching cable with the 6200 I got to say it is a HUGE improvement over the 5100 especially in dvi. Even my wife made a comment last night and she didn't know I had the box switched out!:O)

what kind of tv is your 6200 hooked up to?

Dave, you're not going to find too many people here with a TV that has Firewire input.

You might want to ask this in the 6200 thread in the HDTV Recorders forum, or in the RPTV forum (if that's what you have).

I have the Mits 65807 w/promise module (IEEE1394 port) and have a 6200 install Tuesday. I'll let the forum know what happens.

Dave,

First, to reiterate on my earlier post, you do not need a firwire input on your tv to hook the 6200 up with a DVHS player.

With respect to question #2, I will likely use option b and "other." I will link the firewire between the 6200 and my JVC 30k and hook the component outputs of both to my Mits RPTV (via a component switcher). This will allow me to determine which component output looks best for "viewing" current broadcasts.

I may be mistaken, but as I understand, the firewire port on the 6200 can only output signals, it cannot receive signals, so option c. is out (i.e., you cannot playback recorded material from the JVC 30k to the 6200 and then out via component to the TV). You can of course playback recorded material via the component outputs of your DVHS player.

Another option would be to get a Samsung SIR-T165, which is an over the air HD receiver which can connect with your DHVS player. Some people are watching recorded HD material and D-Theater broadcasts via firewire from the JVC 30k/40k to the Sammy and out from the Sammy to their TV. Supposedly, the component outputs and DVI outputs of the Sammy are superior to the JVC 30k/40k (not sure about other DVHS players). Also, because the DVI output on the Sammy allows for RGBHV, you can use a DVI to VGA converter (you don't need a transcoder) if your HDTV has a VGA or RGBHV input. This also supposedly provides a superior signal to the JVC 30k/40k.

Hope this can be of help. For more info check out the HDTV recorders forum.

Well, I got my 6200 on thursday morning with the new firmware.
I have noticed a big improvement in color and PQ over DVI to my DLP tv.
From what I understand, the big difference in PQ on dvi should be relevent to DLP owners mainly. I have noticed a bit better signal on the analog chanels, but not drastic, I do noticed a barcode like (only way i can describe it) line at the top of some analog chans. I had the tech over for a couple hours comparing the dvi to the component, changing settings etc. We were both amazed at the quality improvement, and the speed of the box is a big jump from the 5100. I have not found a good pc version of Virtual DVHS to test the firewire output as i do not have a dvhs deck yet. (if anyone knows one.. please pm me.)

Ryan

macd23, A panny 42" 6uy.

Therob006,
Can you get the number of HD stbs that Comcast has installed locally
or even nationwide? Arun Gupta is trying to conduct a poll in the
HDTV Prog forum to see how folks get HDTV signals. 5100/6200
install numbers would be nice.

thanks

larry

Originally posted by D_Doherty
asking again...

Ppeople w/the 6200, DVHS, and a HAVI tv...

1. Is the 6200's 1394 port 4 or 6 pin?

*** 6200 is 4 pin per Moto website specs

2. How are people w/1394 tvs and DVCRs setting them up
a. 6200 -> TV <- DVHS
b. 6200 -> DVHS -> TV
c. DVHS -> 6200 -> TV
d. other

***Most will be (b), very few (a)

3. How are they recordings controlled
a. by the 6200
b. by the tv
c. by the VCR (is this possible)

***Sadly, most by (d) finger (I assume you mean "timer" controlled)
I have mostly determined the 6200, though it shows Ir blaster active both in firmware and software, CANNOT control other boxes. The Moto site indicates the IR output is actually input, and is itself able to be controlled by OTHER Ir blaster devices. There is a report that possibly TVguide interactive higher layer software simply doesn't use the IR port, but I believe I'm right in that it is a RECEIVE port only.

Many of us are having great difficulty getting the JVC30k to record over I-x input via timers. So I have found it's not possible at all to timer record from 6200->JVC 30k.

4. is it possible to schedule recordings or are you just recording what is on?

****See above.

Thanks,

Dave

My answers are preceded by *** above. Hope that helps.
Spearse

Originally posted by Defraggerman
Larry,You should set your box to output 1080i. I believe that is what the sony's display natively.I have the 480 override set to off but I have a sammy so you should probably experiment with that.Let us know how the calibration goes.

Originally posted by old_muggle
LarryJoe,

I have the 60 GWIII also. In theory, the best thing is to go in and change the setting based upon how the channel is being broadcast 1080i vs 720p. In practice I think that 1080i looks best or as good on my equipment than 720p (ymmv). SD I have set to 480i.

I'm jealous your having it calibrated. I would think he will give you the best settings for DVI as well as the other connections. Let us know how it goes (maybe in the tweaks thread).

Good luck!

Thanks for the advice. I'll definitely let you know how the calibration goes. Also, for reference, I have a 6200 box, had a look yesterday.

Originally posted by DaveFi
Let's see if you get a 6200 FMD-

The tech who was supposed to come told me such a box didn't exist, so I wonder if they've really gotten enough to go around.

We'll all get one eventually, but when the guy tells you there's no such thing, there isn't much else you can do. Lol.

Dave - Tech came by yesterday. He didn't know anything about the model #'s or understand the order placed by the CSR to "make" my 5100 a 6200. We talked and I explained why I wanted the 6200. He was really nice and said if he had one in the truck he would gladly swap - which he did.

I'd recommend creating the service call & dealing with the service tech in person. I have a feeling most of these guys may have 6200's in the truck and don't even know it...........hopefully you get a different tech though....................maybe waiting a month or so may help.

Some advice please. I have a GWIII and settings are NOT by input. That is, there is no memory for each input. I currently have the Comcast 6200 and my p-scan dvd player hooked up via component. The DVI is unused, but I am going to check it out when my cable comes tomorrow.

Here is the deal, given the above re: lack of input memory, I am having my TV calibrated this coming Friday and he will calibrate my component/dvi signals. Since this is not cheap and will be pretty much one calibration for all inputs (again, given the lack of input memory), should I just leave the two component inputs? Are my chances better for uniformity this way? Given the washed out comments regarding DVI and the need to tune, I am thinking that if he tunes the DVI, then the other components will be off more? Am I making any sense?

Thanks.

PS - my dvi cable is sitting in the mailroom at work in Boston, I took off a few minutes early Friday and missed UPS. kicking myself because I have nothing to play with! I may just go to BB today and pick one up, the suspense is killing me. I'll bring it back later in the week. Leaning toward this, so I'll post back later on my dvi results. Also, I am in Easton and assuming it is on for my 6200.

LarryJoe,
Have you checked in the RPTV forum for anwers to your questions
about the GWIII? I'm sure somebody will know the answers.

larry

Good call, I posted over there as well. I could not decide where to put this, I wanted some comments on Comcast DVI (here) and some feedback on the GWIII (RPTV) and calibration. Hate to cross post, but this place is huge!

I called Comcast to upgrade my 5100 to the 6200 and wow did I come across a nasty csr! He didn't even know what I was talking about, I asked to speak to a supervisor and the guy told me that I couldn't! I hung up and called back and wouldn't you know it the same csr took my call again, so I hung up and called again and I got a csr that was willing to help me. He also didn't know anything about it but was willing to help me, he put me on hold for 10 minutes but came with the proper info and told me he will have someone out here today to change out my 5100.
He asked me how I knew about it and of course I told him AVS Forum. He said thank you of informing him and that he'll pass it onto the csr's.

Sigh. I'm not going to fight with them to get a box. I already asked twice for one, and was told I was wrong both times. I'm not going to ask again.

Eventually I'll get it, I just don't want to jump through hoops to get one.

DaveFi,
Sorry to hear that. I sorta did have to jump through hoops, but they bent over backwards to help me once I found the right guy. I don't know his name, but if you get the warehouse manager he will set you up.
Spearse

I did contact the local Comcast manager. The guy he contacted to bring me a box was the one who called to tell me it was "in beta and won't be available until the summer". Lol.

Manger is a nice guy. They finally fixed a long-standing problem with my building wiring. He'll get back to me to sort this thing out. Must be busy.

Overall I'm happy with Comcast. They have really made an effort to please me, at least when you finally get to the right people. The only effort Mediaone/ATT (whoever they were) made was to blow me off.

I agree Dave, Comcast has been more supportive than any cable company I've dealt with before.

FYI, I fixed my JVC recording problem-- I now can record all channels flawlessly from 6200-JVC for timeshifting. Key was setting JVC to convert ESPN and ABC from 720-1080i.

Spearse

No glitches like other people from different regions are reporting? If that's the case I'm glad I jumped on the refurb 30K when I did. It was a real crap-shoot. I only hope the thing lasts as I've only used it a handfull of times.

Must...have...firewire...must...have...firewire...

Hopefully my firewire will be here tomorrow sometime between 1 and 3 PM.

Originally posted by xboxjunkie
I called Comcast to upgrade my 5100 to the 6200 and wow did I come across a nasty csr! He didn't even know what I was talking about, I asked to speak to a supervisor and the guy told me that I couldn't! I hung up and called back and wouldn't you know it the same csr took my call again, so I hung up and called again and I got a csr that was willing to help me. He also didn't know anything about it but was willing to help me, he put me on hold for 10 minutes but came with the proper info and told me he will have someone out here today to change out my 5100.
He asked me how I knew about it and of course I told him AVS Forum. He said thank you of informing him and that he'll pass it onto the csr's.


I asked my tech during my initial install (over the phone from work) if DVI was an option. He had no idea what DVI was. I pleaded for Comcast to just leave me the box, but they will not. I just assume hook things up myself, these guys on the phone and in the field don't really care or stay on top of things. They schedule appointments and plug in cable boxes. On the corporate level, comcast is awesome. We would not have 6200's and HD if Mediaone or ATT were still running the show.

Here is my deal with DVI today. I picked up a monster DVI and I can definitely say there is a vast improvement over the component. My wife actually commented on it from the kitchen which is 30 feet away or more. Here is the disclaimer as I do not want people to rush out and go DVI just because of this. Comcast installed the 6200 two weeks ago and when I disconnected the component plugs they installed, I could not believe it, the tech actually used an 18 ft cable to go about two feet. What was this guy thinking? Funny thing is, I couldn't be there and left a note for him (and a tip) and asked if he could leave me an extra component. He did, a 6 footer, so he had a shorter cable. Moral of the story is that I had a coil of component (including the two for audio) which could have easily led to a degraded picture, so take my positive comments on DVI as you wish. I can say that HD knocked my socks off when I first saw it two weeks ago after the 6200 and long cables were installed.

LJ

I dont think a longer 18ft component wire will degrade the picture. you would have to go alot further than that.

when I called a couple weeks ago for HD they came in a few days with my box. asked about the DVI and they said it will never work and will have to get another one when they offer it to have a working DVI port.

well glad I seen on here they did a firmware upgrade and checked again after doing it a couple weeks ago when it didnt work and now it does. there is no difference in quality at all. if there is than its a case of signal problem.

I read someone on here said that DVI cant pass 480i. well I can switch my 6200 to 480i and my sony accepts it just fine. as well as the others.

I got a 6200 and its hooked up to a Sony 36" XBR800 HDTV.

Just bought a Monster cable DVI400 DVI cable to go from my 5100 to my Tosh 65hx83. Works great. I think the SD channels look a bit better then the component outputs. Glad that latest firmware enabled the DVI. Any solid answers on the picture quality of the 6200. Is it better. Anyone have a 5100 and a 6200 to compare side by side?

502ss

I just installed a DVI cable last night on my Samsung DLP with the Moto 6200 box. Overall the picture quality is only slightly better, but IMHO not worth a $100 cable. I am going to buy one of the $5 cables on ebay to compare. I think SD looks a little better and HD has more detail. I think in the future I will use my DVI port for a DVD player, I may see more gains there. Then, I will use my Monster M500 components to connect the HD box.

Steve

Originally posted by dlp_steve
I think SD looks a little better and HD has more detail.
Steve

Hmmm...both of these are good reasons to me to stay with the DVI and worth either $5 or $100, depending on whether the $5 cable can do all the things that Monster claims it can on the package. I may just stick with the Monster DVI and save myself the trouble of analyzing which cable produces a better picture. From experience, I would most likely keep the Monster for peace of mind anyway.

Overall the picture quality is only slightly better, but IMHO not worth a $100 cable.

Sounds like the monster devoured another victim. :) By clicking on links at the top
of the page you can find DVI cables for at least 1/3 the price and perform equally
well. They may not look as pretty and the vendors don't have quite marketing budget
to maintain, but the cables work just fine.

It's interesting to me that everybody with the 6200 claims an increase in PQ quality
over DVI vs component. It would be nice to know the "physical difference" between
the 5100 and 6200 wrt deinterlacing/scaling components.

larry

Hopefully my firewire will be here tomorrow sometime between 1 and 3 PM.

Benji,

Please let me know how you make out with the tech and Mot 6200 availability as I am in Taunton also and looking to switch from Sat to cable. If you coud forward me the Tech's name and contact number, or someone else there at Comcast that understands the equipment, I would sincerely appreciate it.

BTW do you have a JVC 30K DVHS VCR to record over firewire?
Also, does comcast in our area have INHD available and is it included with ESPN-HD, NESN-HD and the locals as part of the basic digital package?

Thanks,
gil

Gil...don't know the tech's name. But neither the tech or his boss even knew about the firewire port on the 6200. I explained to him why I wanted this box, and this was the first he had ever heard of IEEE1394. Comcast in Taunton has IND1 and 2 (incld. NESN-HD) and ESP-HD as well as HBO, Cinemax, Starz and Showtime HD, and digital channels 2, 4, 5, 7 and 25 from Boston.

Hardwire...to answer your other question about my VCR, it is a Mitsubishi HS-HD2000U. It differs from the JVC in that recordings are fed back to my TV thru the same firewire connection that the VCR received the signal on. The JVC records on firewire then sends it back thru component cables.

If someone in the Natick/Framingham area gets one please tell me, because I don't know who to ask.

Originally posted by PooperScooper

It's interesting to me that everybody with the 6200 claims an increase in PQ quality
over DVI vs component. It would be nice to know the "physical difference" between
the 5100 and 6200 wrt deinterlacing/scaling components.

larry

Larry-

The Jury is still out on that one. I think I want to see a better image, but I think it may be washed out a little compared to componet with the same contrast, brightness, color, sharpness. I think I need to compensate on some of those to see the true PQ gains. I would like to have my TV calibrated at some point. As I put more housrs on it, I can see when I could make adjustments. Oh well, It will never be the same as the first day I had HD, but it still rocks.

Steve

So true on the first day with HD, pretty much knocks your socks off!

Can't wait for Friday and the ISF calibration. I'll try to take some before and after pics and post anything and everything I can.

Oh, one more thing. The tech that came today said Comcast will be supplying DVI cables when they get them. I had my 6200 switched for another 6200 because of audio static. The switch fixed the issue. He said they are having problems with the Moto boxes whatever that means. And that there will be a new moto box in 6 months.

Steve

Larry Joe,
Who is doing your ISF calibration? I've been looking for a good one since my old "The Home Theater SPOT" forum days.
Spearse

And that there will be a new moto box in 6 months

It better be the 6208!!! :) And hopefully sooner...

larry

Originally posted by spearse
Larry Joe,
Who is doing your ISF calibration? I've been looking for a good one since my old "The Home Theater SPOT" forum days.
Spearse

I know you didn't ask me, but I've been pretty happy with Greg Loewen in Maine. I'm pretty sure that he includes Boston in his "local" area.

don't know the tech's name. But neither the tech or his boss even knew about the firewire port on the 6200. I explained to him why I wanted this box, and this was the first he had ever heard of IEEE1394.

Ben,

I can just guess the responses... "[scratch head] Dee - Veee - Aayche - Ssss recorder? Ain't never seen one of them before[/scratch head]" followed by "IEEE who?" and "Firewire? Don't worry, our wire is flame resistent"... lol

To get someone that would add the 6200 to the work order, did you go thru the office downtown, call the main Comcast number, or ring the center in the Industrial Park?

It doesn't matter much what's on the work order if the tech doesn't know what's going on.

In my case I had a guy who clearly knew about the 6208 in testing, but didn't know about the 6200 so he didn't come. At least he called me.

You can tell I want one of these. Unfortunately there isn't much I can do about it.

Originally posted by hardwired
Ben,

I can just guess the responses... "[scratch head] Dee - Veee - Aayche - Ssss recorder? Ain't never seen one of them before[/scratch head]" followed by "IEEE who?" and "Firewire? Don't worry, our wire is flame resistent"... lol

To get someone that would add the 6200 to the work order, did you go thru the office downtown, call the main Comcast number, or ring the center in the Industrial Park? I called 1-800-Comcast and they immediately set me up with an install date. The guy who installed the 6200 was excited when I explained to him what the 1394 port was for. He did wonder why nobody at Comcast had ever instructed him about this feature. He even called his boss to tell him and his boss said it is some sort of computer connection but has nothing to do with TVs. He told his boss on the phone that he is looking at a TV this minute that has the same connection, so his boss was even surprised. The only problem so far is the VOD is not working. I called Comcast and they said it should be operational within 24 hours.

Originally posted by PooperScooper
It better be the 6208!!! :) And hopefully sooner...

larry

Actually, if it is 6 months from now, it will likely be a dual tuner model which would be even better than the 6208.

Anyone else have the channel formerly known as INHD1 change on the guide to INHDM (I assume the "M" is for "Movies") and subsequently not work all night? INHD2 was on and working fine. Oh well, I had to suffer through Showgirls in HD.

-Adam

johnovox - hmmm, yea, I forgot about the dual tuner model. In a (almost) perfect world Comcast
would start using the 6208 in april/may and then 3 months later we could upgrade
to the dual tuner model. :)

larry

Originally posted by LarryJoe
Some advice please. I have a GWIII and settings are NOT by input. That is, there is no memory for each input. I currently have the Comcast 6200 and my p-scan dvd player hooked up via component. The DVI is unused, but I am going to check it out when my cable comes tomorrow.

Here is the deal, given the above re: lack of input memory, I am having my TV calibrated this coming Friday and he will calibrate my component/dvi signals. Since this is not cheap and will be pretty much one calibration for all inputs (again, given the lack of input memory), should I just leave the two component inputs? Are my chances better for uniformity this way? Given the washed out comments regarding DVI and the need to tune, I am thinking that if he tunes the DVI, then the other components will be off more? Am I making any sense?

Thanks.



LarryJoe,
Although you are technically correct that the GWlll doesn't have memory by input, it DOES have memory by picture mode (standard, vivid, and pro). As each picture mode is assignable to specific inputs, your ISF tech could concievably tweak each one depending on the source, ie: optimize standard for component 5 input, vivid for component 6, and pro for DVI 7 input.

On a separate note, can anyone recommend a ISF tech here on the Cape?

Well I got my 5100 changed out for the 6200 and the picture is much better, less red push and it clearer and crisp! Also the its alot faster than the 5100 (going thru menu and guides). I received the 7.07 firmware update 10 minutes after the tech left, now I just have to get my dvi cable and see if theres an improvement in picture quality!

Originally posted by xboxjunkie
now I just have to get my dvi cable and see if theres an improvement in picture quality!

Don't spend 100$ like I did. I just ordered a 5$ cable last night.

Steve

I haven't noticed any improvement in 1080i PQ (tough to improve on perfection) using the 1394 port, but the analog images are not as good as from the 5100 box (which is not as good as DIRECTV). But you have to give up something to get something. And I seldom waste my time viewing 480i programming.

PCCables.com makes high quality cables for a decent price. I've purchased some long VGA runs from them and they're all excellent.