Yeah I had that. I had to switch over the analog channel.

Originally posted by Al Shing
My beef with the audio dropouts last night was the timing of them. One was just as Renee Z. was announced as the best supporting actress. The audio cut out so you couldn't hear the applause as she went to the stage. I forget when the other one was, but it also was a moment you didn't want to miss.

I'm only using the digital optical cable for sound. Is that the same for everyone with the problem?

Originally posted by Fred328
Jeremy;
do the SD boxes use a different firmware? I am curious why mine shows 7.72. Also trying to understand why the SD box has VOD, but my 6200 w/7.07 does not.

re: audio crackling

Very curious that most people don't seem to be having the problem. There must be some common issue with those that do. If I run the cable straight into my Sony 46wt500, the audio on 2-99 is fine. On the 6200, the random clicks appear on both digital outs as well as the analog. I am using the same cables that the replaced 5100 was using, and it had no such problem.

Originally posted by r0bErT4u
Babula ... I tried connecting to my Philips DVDR80 & MovieMaker2. Both devices say NO SIGNAL?!?



I really don't know the answer to your question, but would say that I do not believe it will be as easy as you might think to interface with the DVDR80. The 6200 is only "presenting" digital data to the firewire port (and not able to "play back") recorded data via the 6200 to the video output(s) yet. The DVDR80/6200 combination must establish a connection. How do you determine this on the DVDR80? Is there local display (or onscreen)?

Perhaps if you look in the HDTV Recording thread, you will see stuff form dr1394. He really knows his stuff re firewire. With that said, I suspect you will still have problems trying to record to DVD via this path.

As far as MovieMaker2, I perceive you are trying to record from th 6200 to a PC??

Bill

I had severe dropouts during the Oscars, some lasting over a minute, on 104.

Still no VOD here. I give up. As far as the Oscars, I saw a little breakup, but otherwise it was a decent, if boring, presentation.

There is some good stuff on VOD, so I wouldn't just blow it off as something you wouldn't be interested in. For example, I never watched the first season of Six Feet Under, and the whole first season from the pilot on down is currently on HBO VOD. I don't think last year's season was anywhere as good as the pilot was.

There is some good stuff from the Anime Network, too, but a couple of Episode 1's for some anime series just rolled off last night. As far as I can tell, once they roll, they don't come back, so watch them while you can.

I just talked with a Comcast CSR who told me that I could take my 5100 stb to a Comcast store and they would swap it for a 6200. Has anyone tried this? I'd like to call the Seattle Comcast Store to confirm this and to confirm that they have a supply of 6200's before I head over there. I have tried without success to find a phone number for the Comcast Store. Does anyone know the phone #??

Comcast's web page now lists 13 HD channels, including Starz HD and Cinemax HD. I guess I can now officially call in to complain if they're not on my box by tonight.

Is Curb Your Enthusiasm up there? I love that show but just recently started watching it. Would be great to see the first season.

Originally posted by Al Shing
There is some good stuff on VOD, so I wouldn't just blow it off as something you wouldn't be interested in. For example, I never watched the first season of Six Feet Under, and the whole first season from the pilot on down is currently on HBO VOD. I don't think last year's season was anywhere as good as the pilot was.

There is some good stuff from the Anime Network, too, but a couple of Episode 1's for some anime series just rolled off last night. As far as I can tell, once they roll, they don't come back, so watch them while you can.

Well, looks like I can now record HDTV! Woo-hoo! Had one of my 5100s swapped for a 6200 this morning (see previous post about having to call three times before getting a CSR who would agree to issue a work order for this).

I quickly realized I didn't have any firewire cables laying around, ran down to Radio Shack, and picked one up (standard 1394 6-pin to 4-pin cable, same as for DV camcorders). Plugged it into the 6200 and my JVC 30K DVHS deck. Channel I-1 (I-Link #1) on the VCR now shows up as "DCT 6200". Tuned the 6200 to channel 549, popped a DVHS tape in the VCR, hit Record on the VCR and viola! I've just recorded about 10 minutes of HBOHD. Played back without a glitch, too. DVHS deck is connected to my projector via Component.

Next I need to test longer recordings & other HD channels to see if it remains glitch-free. Also need to try some automation for un-attended recordings. Both the 6200 and the JVC DVHS are hooked up to my home-automation system, so my PC can control them via IR blasters. In theory I should be able to schedule home automation events to turn the boxes on, tune the 6200 to the desired channel, and start recording on the VCR - all at the desired times. Not quite ReplayTV or Tivo, but hopefully will let me time-shift & archive some HD content without too much pain...

Originally posted by mimler
I just talked with a Comcast CSR who told me that I could take my 5100 stb to a Comcast store and they would swap it for a 6200. Has anyone tried this? I'd like to call the Seattle Comcast Store to confirm this and to confirm that they have a supply of 6200's before I head over there. I have tried without success to find a phone number for the Comcast Store. Does anyone know the phone #??

Same phone number listed for all of Comcast:
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
City: Seattle
Center Name: Comcast Cable Store
Billing Payment Center Address: 1140 No 94th St, Seattle, WA 98103
Phone Number: 877-824-2288
Hours of Operation: Monday thru Friday 8:00am to 7:00pm, Saturday 9:00am to 5:00pm
Notes: Full Service location. Payments accepted. Equipment Issued and exchanged. Accepts Video, HSD & Telephony payments
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Let us know if it works. Never the same story twice with this bunch, though.

I am not blowing it off, I am simply not receiving VOD and really stopped worrying about it entirely. If I get it, I'll utilize it, but I'm not so I can't. Oh well, I have other things to worry about, my laptop has had a melt down and now I'm back on my desktop. Feel like I'm back in the 20th century or something.:D

I tried the main Comcast # and they couldn't give me the phone number to call the Seattle store directly. I wanted to confirm with the store before unhooking my 5100 and driving from Bellevue. Oh well, I'll probably head over tomorrow afternoon and give it a try. I'll post with an update.

Originally posted by Tom_Oliver
Is Curb Your Enthusiasm up there? I love that show but just recently started watching it. Would be great to see the first season.

They have CYE #31-38 up now until 3/28.

Pick up your 6200 at Comcast? There is no better way!

FYI, I just stopped by the Comcast store on N. 94th St. in Seattle and exchanged my crummy 5100 for a 6200 in about 5 minutes flat. I just mentioned that a CSR told me to exchange it at the store since they had messed up my service window (arrived on the wrong day!). Be forceful, but polite, if they tell you they don't have any 6200s. At first I was told that they don't have any, which then became 'well, I'm not sure that we have any in stock', which after a little more pressure became 'oh, wait - here's the warehouse manager and I'll see if he's got any' -- and sure enough he had tons.

I've got 2 6200's coming on Thursday to the house to swap out my 5100's. I'm also giving back my 2 SD Motorola boxes to save $10 a month since my kids only watch Disney & Nick. Both those sets have cable ready tuners...

Can't wait to hook up that DVI cable to my Sony VPL-HS20!

Originally posted by poppa
The CSR wouldn't upgrade my box to one that has DVI. Said they aren't doing that. ...

(in Redmond)

I called Comcast Sunday and asked to exchange my 5100 (no dvi conn.) with a 6200. She said no problem and scheduled it for Weds. The w.o. explicitly states that it is just swap. She said it was no problem. We'll see. The last time when I ordered a 5100 over a year ago, the guy who came out says he wouldn't give it to me because I didn't have a HDTV. I told him it was on the way, but still wouldn't do it. I hope they don't pull a similar stunt with the 6200, i.e., take the order and then have the tech come out only to say he wouldn't do it.

If you can pick up one in exchange for 5100, it still must be activated by the system. That requires the s/n of the box to be remotely activated.....

Originally posted by jimre
[B]Well, looks like I can now record HDTV! Woo-hoo! B]

That's cool, but I am surprised you cannot control the STB using the DVHS deck. Doesn't the protocol support device control?

Oh, and what happens when you tune to an analog channel? Just curious.

Box Swap @ Cable Store: Comcast will not provide phone numbers for the stores to customers as they people at the store are not paid to take customer calls nor do they have the time.

Furthermore the cable stores are not supposed to hand out any HD box's.

Audio Problems: I am using the optical connection on mine running directly to my Yamaha RX-V730 as my sole audio connection from my 6200 to my reciever with no audio crackling problems on analog channels.

Last night for the oscars I started watching when they did the Bob Hope thing and I had dropouts during that part but once it came back from commercial break after that I only had small issues with audio/video.

Firmware: Firmware is completely different between the HD and non HD box's the numbers will not corespond in anyway between the 2.

Originally posted by ianken
That's cool, but I am surprised you cannot control the STB using the DVHS deck. Doesn't the protocol support device control?

Oh, and what happens when you tune to an analog channel? Just curious. If there's a way for the DVHS to control the 6200 via firewire, I haven't found it. From everything I've read & seen, it seems to be a one-way data stream from the cable box.

Analog channels seem to work just fine - no different from digital channels as far as recording over firewire.

>>Furthermore the cable stores are not supposed to hand out any HD box's.

Well, the point is it works, and sure beats waiting for a 4 hr service window for some useless tech to show up and watch me connect everything for him.

Well that's great, but a bunch of us still have the problem. Has it been reported to your support staff? What should we do?

Originally posted by Jeremyfr
Audio Problems: I am using the optical connection on mine running directly to my Yamaha RX-V730 as my sole audio connection from my 6200 to my reciever with no audio crackling problems on analog channels.

If you are having a problem with your box then call up set up a service appt, otherwise it come down to a compatibility issue much like the 5100/Denon Issue

I'm sure you all got the message on your DCT's but if not NBA TV will be launching on or around April 1st.

What is NBA TV? The message said it's part of Digital Extra, on 416. I have Digital Extra (not sure why), but others may not. Doesn't sound like HD, either. Would be better if they just didn't black out the INHD NBA games.

Originally posted by jimre
Well, looks like I can now record HDTV! Woo-hoo! ...
Next I need to test longer recordings & other HD channels to see if it remains glitch-free. Tried recording a couple hours of INHD on my JVC 30K last night. It worked, but there are minor audio & video glitches every few minutes. Nothing fatal, but enough to be annoying. Enough to spoil the "wow" factor if you want to show off an HD recording to your friends. I don't see these glitches when watching INHD on the 6200 directly, so I must assume they're being introduced either in the firewire communication between boxes, or else on the tape (I'm recording on a JVC-brand blank DVHS tape).

You might want to check your firewire cable or perhaps try another one. I've had problems in the past doing video capture from my sony camcorder via firewire. I was getting a lot of dropped frames and the connection didn't seem to fit right. All I did was replace the cable and the problems cleared up. It's a bit of a long shot but might help.

Thanks, but I think a service appointment would be a total waste of time. I mean these guys don’t even know what kind of boxes they have.

I’ll phone it in so maybe if you get enough calls someone will look into it.

Originally posted by Jeremyfr
If you are having a problem with your box then call up set up a service appt, otherwise it come down to a compatibility issue much like the 5100/Denon Issue

Got tired of waiting for StarzHD so I called Comcast yesterday. I was told it wasn't available in my area-Seattle-but maybe in the next month. I told her other people were getting it, so she went over to the office TV there and checked and sure enough they were getting it in Everett. The system was down but she told me it was a simple thing to fix and she would do it first thing this AM. And it sure enough it's there now.

What is NBA TV? The message said it's part of Digital Extra, on 416. I have Digital Extra (not sure why), but others may not. Doesn't sound like HD, either. Would be better if they just didn't black out the INHD NBA games

This will un black out the games since they will be carrying NBA TV who produces those games (not INHD) then they will be able to allow customers to see those HD games starting 4/1.

Originally posted by CoolCanuck
>Well, the point is it works, and sure beats waiting for a 4 hr service window for some useless tech to show up and watch me connect everything for him.

I may do this as well as my area seems to be skipped any firmware updates. Picking up a box is a MUCH better customer experience than making an appointment (and taking a half day off work).

VOD, NBATV....etc

April 1st is April Fool's Day.....this worries me deeply.

Now the real question.....will NBATV be HD like it's supposed to be?

Regardless.....after 2 years of loosing my favorite station....THANK YOU COMCAST!!!!!!

Biz the only HD content NBA TV has is the current and older games which will all be shown HD on INHD1.

Jeremy any update on why the VOD and firmware updates did not happen last week... Is it that those of us on 2.48 will never receive the update and switch out our boxes.

Hard to say Trevor I'd try calling in and haveing a "signal" sent to the box you may want to unplug from the power and plug it back in before doing so.

Originally posted by jimre
Tried recording a couple hours of INHD on my JVC 30K last night. It worked, but there are minor audio & video glitches every few minutes. Nothing fatal, but enough to be annoying. Enough to spoil the "wow" factor if you want to show off an HD recording to your friends. I don't see these glitches when watching INHD on the 6200 directly, so I must assume they're being introduced either in the firewire communication between boxes, or else on the tape (I'm recording on a JVC-brand blank DVHS tape).

Hi,

If you haven't done so already, pls report your 6200 firewire issues in the 620X firewire sticky thread at the top of the HDTV Recorders forum. Thanks!

Originally posted by Jeremyfr
Hard to say Trevor I'd try calling in and haveing a "signal" sent to the box you may want to unplug from the power and plug it back in before doing so.

Hi Jeremy,

Are you saying that the upgrades are done for this area? If we still have 00 firmware would this be due to a problem with our STB?

Thanks

00 would definately indicate an issue with the box it should at least be 2.48 if not 7.07 in all areas of western Washington to my knowledge.

Well I finally started getting StarzHD but it cuts in and out and pixelates quite a bit. Anyone else having trouble here?

Also, just saw an advertisement for what appeared to be Comcast PVR, not the video on demand (but I didnt' see the whole thing). Are they advertising for the 6208 yet or was it actually for VOD?

I called and asked for some help on my box in getting the Starz HD and Cinemax HD channels. They found that my box was defined on the second outlet instead of the first, so they repositioned that and sent a soft hit. I was #359 in the queue for one of those, so it took about three hours, but it finally got those channels mapped on the box. Unfortunately, I was getting "One Moment Please" on both channels.

I called in this morning, and they sent a hard hit to the box, but it didn't fix the problem. So they are going to send out a tech to take a look. I asked them to bring out a box with a DVI and firewire output as long as they are coming out. Scheduled appointment for Saturday afternoon.

They said that if they found out it wasn't Comcast's problem it would cost me $29.99 for the service call. They said they had service contracts available. No thanks.

audio crackle update

just had a tech here. He said this was the first time he'd encountered this problem. He tried another 6200, same problem. Tried a plain SD box and the clicks went away. Basically have to live with it for now, we'll see if they can figure anything out.

Now waiting for the guide to reload to see if VOD is working on the new 6200...

No problem swapping my 5100 for a 6200 at the N. Seattle Comcast store yesterday. I was in and out in less than 5 minutes. I just told the them that a Comcast CSR told me I could go to the store and exchange my 5100 and it was a done deal. My 6200 has latest FW 7.07 and SW 51.??-2002.
Too bad I can still see a faint vertical line with HD content when outputting 1080i to my Panasonic ED plasma.:mad: I'll try DVI next.

How was the new box activation handled? Did they do that while you were at the store?

How was the new box activation handled? Did they do that while you were at the store?

They just scanned the 6200 and handed it to me. I went home and hooked it up and it worked fine.

Not that I care what you all do but you realize that the more people tell the stores the CSR's sent people there the more the CSR's get yelled at for sending people to the cable store when they aren't supposed to.

I hear you Jeremy. In my case, at least, the CSR actually DID tell me to go to the store to do the swap.

I thought that was the purpose of the cable stores. There was an article in the Redmond Reporter a couple of weeks ago that talked about a comcast cable store opening in redmond. One desired goal was to "reconnect" with the community and make it easier for customers to handle these types of issues rather than the typical 4 hour window that they show up late for. TCI had these stores in most communities, then AT&T started closing them, now comcast is bringing them back.

Well, I think I'll sit tight, let the system do its thing, wait until VOD & new firmware are supposed to have reached Bellevue, and withhold any complaints until my time has come & I've been bypassed. Right now I'm probably better off with 5100, 5.03, STARZHD, and no crackling on the analogs. There's even a DVI connector on the back of the 5100 (no firewire).

Re box activation: When I first got the 5100 installed about 4 months ago, I noticed that I was able to view all digital channels; I mean ALL! I did not give it much thought since most of my viewing was D* or OTA. I had HBOHD and SHOHD plus all the other HD channels on D*. SInce I wanted to be able to record on my JVC30K, I attempted to get the 6200. That experience is a complete story in itself.

With the 6200 I finally was able to record and this happended about the same time as StarzHD and MaxHD became available so I called Comcast to order since they were not being seen by the 6200 like ALL the other digital channels. I was able to record HBOHD and SHOHD evan tough I did npt subcribe to them.

To make a long story short, I eventually ended up with a Service Rep visit to figure out why Comcast could not "activate" the Starz and Max HD channels. Between me and the service guy (last Sunday morning) we concluded that by replacing a 5100 back into use, and seeing that it did not see the two channels went back to the 6200 the service guy realized that the original 5100 box had never been activated and snce this was the case was/is able to see ALL digital channels.

Putting back the 6200 and registering and activating produced the desired effects. ABle now to see Strz and Max HD. Called up and ordered the digital platinum package and now able to get all Pay HD channels (to record) until they realize what they are doing. $55 per month for basic, HD is not bad. Paying nothing before, but I am weening myself off D*. Only reason to keep it now is CBSHD.

The moral of this story is that if you pick up a box at the Cable Store and connect it wihtout activation, there is a good chance that you will see ALL digital channels. Best thing to do in this case is fess up and have the box activated and pay your dues!

Hmmmmh. I haven't checked to see if I can get ALL the digital channels on the box I picked up from the Comcast store. If I am able to get all the channels even though I'm not paying for them, I will be sure to call Comcast right away to report the mistake. Yah right!:D

It would be nice if Comcast would offer a package consisting of Digital Classic + all HD channels. I'd like to have access to all the HD movies, but I'm not that interested in having (or paying for) all the movie channels in the Digital Platinum package.

I would actually like to see an "Only HD" offer that would be nothing but their HD channels. I can't revert back from d* to comast analog/digital for many reasons, and I can't pick up 110 and 119 because of trees. I would subscribe to only their HD channels for a fair price.

^^^^ hell will feeze over first :)

Originally posted by WiFi-Spy
^^^^ hell will feeze over first :)

Even more extreme -- we'll get KIRO-HD first!

Originally posted by mimler
If I am able to get all the channels even though I'm not paying for them, I will be sure to call Comcast right away to report the mistake. Yah right!:D

On these boxes that aren't activated and are receiving all the channels, I'd be very surprised to see them get the next feature update and/or firmware update that's released, since essentially your box is not being recognized on your account I would guess. Just a thought, but that may be why some people didn't get the latest firmware update to begin with?

Shoreline,Lake Forest Park, and more Parts of Seattle will launch VOD tomorow. Remember it can take untill late in the afternoon for it to show up.

Jeremy

Jeremy, any news regarding the EastSide?

Originally posted by danbez
Jeremy, any news regarding the EastSide?

I bet they're waiting on the eastside deployment because the nerd density is very high and want to make sure they have the capacity in place and the bugs worked out.

I still want a PC based 1394 time shift solution. Not Motorola's problem.

I also "native" output for HD to bypass the boxes internal upconverter so I can use a superior outboard solution. This was the best feature of the HDD-200.

Comcast came out today and swapped my 5100 for a 6200 (no hassles--they just did it). I connected a dvi cable up to my Sony 42" plasma (native res 1028 X 1028). I cannot tell any diference between component and dvi--both are superb. So the only thing gained was freeing up a component input to the Sony.

Maxhd channel just displays "Pls wait a moment..." VOD looks to be operable. One glitch though; I may have a flakey 6200. The analog channels lose color sync on S-video and composite outputs randomly. Sometimes signal just fine, and sometimes out of sync. It's too early to tell what's going on yet. The bottom line for me is aside from freeing up the component input, I'd be better off with my older 5100.

Originally posted by mimler
If I am able to get all the channels even though I'm not paying for them, I will be sure to call Comcast right away to report the mistake. Yah right!


mine did the same for the first 24hrs.....

Just got the VOD available message this morning in Auburn, but no VOD yet and still on 2.48.

I didn't think much of it at first, but VOD is really, really cool. The technology that it uses just astounds me. A zillion programs ready to go whenever YOU want them. And it's free (at least for now, but when it catches on and viewers begin using it in earnest, it surely will become a paid for feature) If you'd have just poo-paw'd it, I'd highly recommend that you try it. It's just amazing.

Woke up this morning to find my firmware upgraded to 7.07 (I have a 5100 which previously had firmware 2.48) and VOD enabled. I think I have all the upgrades that are expected at this point, so if you're in downtown Seattle you're probably upgraded at this point as well.

If you have an HDTV and live in Edmonds please PM me. I have some questions and I don't want to take up board space for others.
Thanx, Gordon.

Also got VOD this morning. Sweet! I subscribe to HBO so I was expecting that I could watch the HBO offerings for no extra cost. This is correct! They have the last season of SATC, CYE, and others. I just watched the first episode of "The Sopranos" from the last season. Using the Zoom feature on my 34XBR I could fill the entire 16x9 screen with the correct OAR. HOWEVER, I'm also able to access the Showtime, Cinemax, and Starz shows without a charge. Only the Comcast Movies showed a charge (eg X2 in widescreen)

Is this added bonus going to stay or go away?

Shh!

No you should get any "premium" channel you subscribe for at no extra cost on VOD. I.E. you pay for HBO you get HBO On Demand as well.

VOD content was never meant and will never become a pay feature, lets look at the reality here, why charge for a service that in the long run would allow you to free up bandwidth for other things. and besides you pay for the new content i.e. new release movies, etc, as well as the premium's (of course included in what you already pay for said premium network.) so it really is already about half pay for use and the rest is free.

One other thing as many people have said don't knock it till you try it and remember they're already testing HD-VOD so its just a matter of time untill you'll be able to watch uncompressed HD content OnDemand.

Jeremy, thanks, as always for the quick reply.

However, my question is: I pay for HBO but I'm getting Showtime On Demand for free as well? Is this correct?

However, my question is: I pay for HBO but I'm getting Showtime On Demand for free as well? Is this correct?

no you're getting an added bonus.

they probably left all the premium channel content in the clear untill all the box's update as I believe they had issues with them not working correctly in previous launchs.

Hey Jeremy, I have both the 5100 and 2000 boxes. The 2000 box has VOD but the 5100 doesn't can you give me and some others a little insight on why this is? Thanks!!!

Buddma: It can take a while for the box's to refresh , also the 2000 is only having to download the TV-Guide software whereas the 5100/6200 has to download new firmware and new software. This can take upwards of an hour for the box to do. I cant say for sure but I believe that the system updates in order of serial # of the box I'm not for sure on that one though. But give it time it will eventually get it. If you dont have it by tomorow give em a call and try haveing the info resent to the box.

Just replaced my 2 5100's with the 6200's.
DVI doesn't show up on the root hardware menu as a choice so I'm using the component connection. I guess Sammamish doesn't have the updated firmware to download yet??

I wonder when as my DVI-D cables are in the mail...

BTW/ Does the S-Video out work concurrently with Component? Will I get downconverted HD content over S-video?? I'd like to capture this wth my future HTPC.

Originally posted by stuarts
BTW/ Does the S-Video out work concurrently with Component? Will I get downconverted HD content over S-video??

Yes, that is correct.

But expect it to be letterboxed on HDTV channels (this also means that if 4X3 content is shown on an HDTV channel, you will get double boxed on the SVideo output).

-eric

audio clicking update update

My 6200 finally got the VOD download around 5pm yesterday. The tech had warned me in the morning that their system was running pretty slow. The audio clicks are still there on 2-99. Annoying, but I can watch those channels on the tv's tuner to avoid the problem.

Another thumbs up for VOD. And HD VOD will be excellent. Thanks for that news, Jeremy.

Did I miss somthing? HD VOD is luanced and will be luanced soon?

No Alma HD-VOD is not launched, it is being tested in small areas back east and will eventually be something that is available.

also as for the double letterboxing on the S-Video out you can correct for that by changing the box to 4:3 Pan&Scan which will zoom the 16x9 image so that your only getting the 4:3 image within it.

Like a few others I have the VOD message on my two boxes (6200) but neither actually has vod yet? Also one box is firm ware 7.07 and the other is 5.03? I live in Wallingford (near Greenlake). Anybody have VOD in my neck of the woods yet?

Originally posted by Jeremyfr
no you're getting an added bonus.

they probably left all the premium channel content in the clear untill all the box's update as I believe they had issues with them not working correctly in previous launchs.

I don't pay for any Premium channels(ie; HBO, Max, etc.) but I can access they're VOD shows free of charge.
So, if I'm reading you right this is only temporary, or is this how it's going to be?

I don't pay for any Premium channels(ie; HBO, Max, etc.) but I can access they're VOD shows free of charge.
So, if I'm reading you right this is only temporary, or is this how it's going to be?

Only temporary

I was wondering if anyone knew of a solution to a problem I'm having with my 6200. I have component video connected to my HDTV projector. Since I typically don't use the projector during the day, I have S-Video connected to a non-hdtv television for day watching. All of the overlays (menus, program info, tv guide, etc.) show up through the component video out, but not on the S-Video. Is there a way to have the overlay working on both outputs at the same time?

Hi Podmon....

What do you have the box doing with SD content?

I have a similar setup: HD box outputting all content via component to my plasma, and composite output to another tv. I have the SD override set to 480i, and I get overlays on the SD channels when watching the composite connection. When I had the SD override set to 720/1080 I didn't get overlays on the composite output.

Try switching that and see if that helps....

Rich

Originally posted by stuarts
Just replaced my 2 5100's with the 6200's.
DVI doesn't show up on the root hardware menu as a choice so I'm using the component connection. I guess Sammamish doesn't have the updated firmware to download yet??

I wonder when as my DVI-D cables are in the mail...

BTW/ Does the S-Video out work concurrently with Component? Will I get downconverted HD content over S-video?? I'd like to capture this wth my future HTPC.
Stuart, I've had my 6200 for at least 3 weeks now and had DVI since day one. If it's not enabled when you get your cable, try unplugging the power for a few minutes and plugging it back in.

BTW - Why would you want to capture digital HD over analog s-video? Has anyone had any luck finding PC software to record from firewire?

How do I know if I have VOD?

VOD is not available on the eastside yet.

Originally posted by guapote
Like a few others I have the VOD message on my two boxes (6200) but neither actually has vod yet? Also one box is firm ware 7.07 and the other is 5.03? I live in Wallingford (near Greenlake). Anybody have VOD in my neck of the woods yet?

I live in Ravenna. We got VOD yesterday around 10pm (I saw the box downloading the firmware upgrade at that point).

It seems to work just fine. I was a little disappointed to see less showtime shows in the VOD list than I expected.

alex

Originally posted by Jeremyfr
VOD is not available on the eastside yet.

I received a message on my 5100 in Issaquah yesterday morning saying it was now available but no VOD and i'm still at 2.48. Are they sending this messages out a couple days before they do the updates?

Originally posted by IssaquahHD
I received a message on my 5100 in Issaquah yesterday morning saying it was now available but no VOD and i'm still at 2.48. Are they sending this messages out a couple days before they do the updates?

I had that message yesterday. I called up Comcast and told them that I had the message but no VOD. They queued up a firmware download and about 3 hours later I had it.

alex

Originally posted by Alex Wetmore
I had that message yesterday. I called up Comcast and told them that I had the message but no VOD. They queued up a firmware download and about 3 hours later I had it.

alex

Did you just get the firmware or VOD also?

Both a new firmware and VOD. I tested VOD this morning while eating my cereal and it works just fine.

alex

Originally posted by Alex Wetmore
Both a new firmware and VOD. I tested VOD this morning while eating my cereal and it works just fine.

alex

I just called and the lady said they sent the message out to all of the boxes, even in areas where it isn't available yet. I guess they do their updates on Thursday so maybe next Thursday.

Originally posted by IssaquahHD
I just called and the lady said they sent the message out to all of the boxes, even in areas where it isn't available yet. I guess they do their updates on Thursday so maybe next Thursday.

My Bellevue 5100 did not receive any such message. Are updates always this wishy-washy?

I just called also and the CSR was great... He was able to tell me that it had not been enabled in Auburn yet but will be in the next couple of days. Also set up an appointment for tomorrow to exchange both my 5100's for 6200's. Must admit was surprised on how much he knew about the subject matter. Cudo's to Comcast.

Originally posted by Trevorsplace
I just called also and the CSR was great... Must admit was surprised on how much he knew about the subject matter. Cudo's to Comcast.
That is a bit surprising. When the tech came out to exchange mine, the 6200 was the first one he'd ever seen. He asked why I wanted it (because of dvi). I guess with all the chatter here relating to the 6200, we tend to forget that the group on this forum represents probably an infinitesimal number of subscribers who care, or are even knowledgeable about the 6200.

Originally posted by Trevorsplace
I just called also and the CSR was great... He was able to tell me that it had not been enabled in Auburn yet but will be in the next couple of days. Also set up an appointment for tomorrow to exchange both my 5100's for 6200's. Must admit was surprised on how much he knew about the subject matter. Cudo's to Comcast.

You probably talked to Jeremyfr ;)

Actually he works for the HSI division, not the cable portion. Kinda ironic that the only Comcast employees who know anything about HDTV work in unrelated departments.

Instead we get to deal with CSRs who talk about 'DHTV' (yes, I'm not kidding -- this CSR went on and on about how they could hook me up with DHTV).

DHTV - short for DuH-TV. Designed for those who heard something about a fancy TV somewhere but not quite sure what it is, but it must have been better than "reg'lar TV".

Comcast just left after exchanging both my 5100's for 6200's. They both came loaded with 7.07 and on demand shows on the guide but I get a communications error message when I select it. So I guess VOD is not available in Auburn yet ?? Unless there is another issue. I do think the picture quality on the analog channels is better in 480 overide.

Communications error typically means that there is something wrong with the return path and a tech would need to go out to look at it.

On the cracking audio problem with the 6200 what kind of reciever does everyone have? I have an Onkyo TX-DS797.

Received a download about an hour ago and now the VOD choice is gone so I guess my S/W version rolled back. Just have to wait till it is released in Auburn, at least I know Firmware version is the latest.

On the PQ, what a difference with the 6200. The analog channels look great now on 480P overide. I could never use that on the 5100 as the PQ was crap.

Originally posted by Trevorsplace
On the PQ, what a difference with the 6200. The analog channels look great now on 480P overide. I could never use that on the 5100 as the PQ was crap.

The upconvert this box does is noticably better than the 5100. Not as good as even a low end line doubler, but OK.

FYI - I'm using the OPTICAL audio output of my 6200 into my Onkyo TX-NR801 with NO audio popping.

However, I have to set my A/V Sync to +74 ms (which is the maximum setting). Otherwise people's mouths are ahead of their voices. Does anyone else have this issue?

After Comcast "turned on" Cinemax HD, i'm able to watch it but after a long "One moment please" message on my screen. I get the program guide bar along the bottom of the screen with what is currently showing. Is there anyway to fix this? I have the 5100 box. Thanks!

Originally posted by Tom_Oliver
On the cracking audio problem with the 6200 what kind of reciever does everyone have? I have an Onkyo TX-DS797.

I have a brand new 'Pioneer VSX-D912-K' thats working fine otherwise.

BTW, I'm a bit of a cable box n00b. How do I get into the 'service menu' on my 6200 to check my settings(pic ratio, etc.)? I already found the user menu to change the Audio, Language, check Firmware, etc. but the pic ratio wasn't in there.

Originally posted by Fredline
BTW, I'm a bit of a cable box n00b. How do I get into the 'service menu' on my 6200 to check my settings(pic ratio, etc.)? I already found the user menu to change the Audio, Language, check Firmware, etc. but the pic ratio wasn't in there.

On the 5100, you power the box off, then press the Menu button. Likely the 6200 is the same.

Originally posted by buddma
After Comcast "turned on" Cinemax HD, i'm able to watch it but after a long "One moment please" message on my screen. I get the program guide bar along the bottom of the screen with what is currently showing. Is there anyway to fix this? I have the 5100 box. Thanks!

do you see this on any of the inhd channels too? if so, may be a low signal level.

Originally posted by buddma
After Comcast "turned on" Cinemax HD, i'm able to watch it but after a long "One moment please" message on my screen. I get the program guide bar along the bottom of the screen with what is currently showing. Is there anyway to fix this? I have the 5100 box. Thanks!
I've been getting the "One moment Please" message too (6200) along with the guide bar for several days now (and I subscribe to Cinemax).

Originally posted by buddma
After Comcast "turned on" Cinemax HD, i'm able to watch it but after a long "One moment please" message on my screen. I get the program guide bar along the bottom of the screen with what is currently showing. Is there anyway to fix this? I have the 5100 box. Thanks!

I get INHD just fine also sometimes CinemaxHD breaks up.

I've noticed that Voom (http://www.voom.com), the new sat provider (with 25 HD channels), carrys local KIRO-HD in their lineup. If they can, why can't Comcast reach some agreement?? I sure hope they get it before the next NFL season.

Originally posted by churlock
I've noticed that Voom (http://www.voom.com), the new sat provider (with 25 HD channels), carrys local KIRO-HD in their lineup. If they can, why can't Comcast reach some agreement?? I sure hope they get it before the next NFL season.

The local channels on Voom are Over the Air, so no agreement is required.

Originally posted by wareagle
The local channels on Voom are Over the Air, so no agreement is required. Right - VOOM doesn't actually broadast these channels. Their dish just has a built in OTA antenna, and it looks like they integrate OTA channels with their program guide. So even with VOOM, you're still SOL for KIRO-HD if you can't already receive KIRO's OTA signal.

Hey--for those of y'all getting appointments to switch out the 5100 with the 6200, is Comcast charging you for the visit? How much is it?

For anybody who may want one, I have two 2m DVI cables that I do not need. If you want one send me a PM.


Cables are gone. Thanks for the interest.

Andy,
No charge they do it for free...

patfaram,
I've had my 6200 for a month now and have been using DVI to an HS-20.
I fired it about about 10 minutes ago and the audio sync is horrible on all channels!!
It has worked perfectly up to now.
I'm in the process of power cycling my box, if that doesn't work I'm giving Comcast a call asap.
With the Sopranos debut tonight, I am going to be royally pissed if it's f'd up.
I can't believe we're the only ones experiencing this.

UPDATE: Powered the 6200 off for about 15 minutes and powered back on.
Audio sync is now fine again. Odd.

Doug

Comcast had my OMP (One Moment Please) appointment scheduled for Sunday, even though I asked for and we agreed on Saturday afternoon originally. Tech came and tried some things. He decided to swap out the box for a new one to see if it would fix it. New one is a DCT-6200, manufactured 02/2004. It was taking too long to download the microcode, so he took off for his next call and said he would check back on the status of the problem.

I'm still getting OMP on those new channels, but at least I got a DVI and firewire output now.

If anyone is getting OMP on those channels, I suggest you call it in so they know there is a problem. I think they are just starting to realize that there is something going on with these new channels in some areas, but not in others. The tech said he checked at the headend in Burien, and it is working there, but it isn't working in Auburn or at my house for some reason.

"Home Theater Access Fee"

$15 for a guy to hand me a box and I do all the work hooking it up? I guess it covers the cost of the guy driving out here and handing me the box. And it wasn't even a Comcast dude, rather a sub contractor who was monumentally clueless.

Originally posted by wareagle
The local channels on Voom are Over the Air, so no agreement is required.

Yep. In other words there are no local channels on voom at all. But they don't try very hard to let consum,ers know that. A little asterix at the bottom of the marketing spam. IMHO it is a bit misleading. I wonder how many people picked it up thinking theywould get their locals in HD via satellite? Read the fine print I guess. :-)

Now that I found the settings(16:9, 1080i, etc.) on my 6200, can someone recommend which settings to use for my setup?
I have Sony 50" LCD GWIII & have a DVI cable I've been meaning to hookup but currently using component.

Originally posted by Fredline
Now that I found the settings(16:9, 1080i, etc.) on my 6200, can someone recommend which settings to use for my setup?
I have Sony 50" LCD GWIII & have a DVI cable I've been meaning to hookup but currently using component.
I have the same TV as you, albeit with a 5100. I use 1080i for the HD signal since most HD stations we get originate at 1080i and that eliminates conversion artifacts. To be honest though, I tried 720p as well and hardly noticed a difference. I would set it to whichever resolution the stations you watch most often broadcast at. My 480i override is disabled so it too outputs at 1080i, which I like since my TV will never try to stretch it if I left the 480p zoom mode on. On the 5100 this looks like crap but so did overriding to 480p (in fact all SD looks crap) so I left it alone.

Oh, and I'm currently using component. Have to try DVI one of these days.

Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and how you use your equipment. Just try the different settings for a few days and you'll know which setup you prefer.

Hopefully we will see a STB that supports a 'native' mode. I would rather have my television scale the picture than rely on the STB scaler.

Al Shing,

Did the tech register the new box by calling in the s/n, etc.?

jspeton,

I believe the resolution should be set to nearest value of your monitor's native resolution. I believe the SONY 50" (is it an LCD or Plasma?) Plasma is 1280 X 768 and therefore select the 720P. You will probably not see much difference as you said, for Component. DVI may be a different story though. Some have said that when using DVI, it is noticeably different when the monitor native resolution is taken into consideration.

My Panny is 1024 X 768 and I keep the 6200 at 720p using component outputs. Honestly, it is hard to discern any difference though. It is not easy to adapt this plasma to DVI for its year model. The new 2004 version does have DVI option.

Originally posted by Babula
Al Shing,

Did the tech register the new box by calling in the s/n, etc.?


The new box came with the old channel lineup without VOD and Starz HD or MAX HD, so he called for a reload of the box. It was one of those loads where the box showed "dl" with a circling "-" character for a long time. After about 30-40 minutes, it finally powered up and then finished loading the regular channel guide menus and schedules. When it was all done, it had VOD and the correct channel map.

There were several more hard hits during the evening and night for whatever reason. I was hoping the box didn't have a bad power supply or something.

Originally posted by Babula
I believe the resolution should be set to nearest value of your monitor's native resolution. I believe the SONY 50" (is it an LCD or Plasma?) Plasma is 1280 X 768 and therefore select the 720P. You will probably not see much difference as you said, for Component. DVI may be a different story though. Some have said that when using DVI, it is noticeably different when the monitor native resolution is taken into consideration.

But what you're advocating would require that, when watching 1080i content, that the 5100 convert from 1080i to 720p which is then passed to my TV which must then convert to 768p. With my current setup, the 5100 passes the 1080i signal untouched to my TV which then converts to 768p, resulting in a superior picture. I have no doubts that the scaler in my TV is better than that in the 5100. Avoiding having the 5100 scale or otherwise modify the video signal in any way is my objective, and although the differences aren't night and day they ARE noticeable (perhaps insignificant to some).

FYI the GWIII is an LCD rear projection.

Originally posted by markhs
Hopefully we will see a STB that supports a 'native' mode. I would rather have my television scale the picture than rely on the STB scaler.

You would think a "native" option would've been provided initially. How difficult could that be for Motorola to implement?

Al Shing,

I guess the Tech never got back? In any event, I would be on the horn with them now. As long as you have those OMP screens, I believe its a Comcast problem. I was just curious about the resistration process.

He said he would research the problem today and then call me after I got home from work to follow up. I think there should be enough info for them to figure out that there is a problem with those two new channels in areas such as Des Moines, Auburn, and Renton, and then figure out which amps or filters aren't passing the signal. I would assume that the new channels were added to a new bandwidth frequency range, and something is not passing the frequency range along. The problem might be down at the node level, and between that and few customers subbing both HD and Starz and Cinemax, they might not have enough reports to tell them that it is more than an individual problem. Their hands are also pretty full with the VOD implementations and fallout from that.

My concern is that if they can't resolve this, it might affect future channels that are going to be added, but Starz and Max are low priorities with me anyway. If they're not fixed by April 1st, I'll call and downgrade from Platinum to whatever gives me HBO and SHO, but not Starz and MAX. End of problem.

Originally posted by jspeton
But what you're advocating would require that, when watching 1080i content, that the 5100 convert from 1080i to 720p which is then passed to my TV which must then convert to 768p. With my current setup, the 5100 passes the 1080i signal untouched to my TV which then converts to 768p, resulting in a superior picture. I have no doubts that the scaler in my TV is better than that in the 5100. Avoiding having the 5100 scale or otherwise modify the video signal in any way is my objective, and although the differences aren't night and day they ARE noticeable (perhaps insignificant to some).

FYI the GWIII is an LCD rear projection.

Sorry, I am a Plasma guy and was not sure about the SONY and agree that the scaling should be left to the monitor. When I present 1080i or 720p to my plasma, I have no idea what kind of "scaling" is going on. I ask myself, is the 1080i downconverted to 768 and/or is the 720p upconverted to 768? I honestly don't know. All I know is that using the component inputs, it does not appear to be any different picture quality wise.

How can you control the 6200 or your monitor to be the controlling factor as to who does what to whom? If the input to the monitor is different than the native resolution, then my understanding of the way things work is that it is "converted" (scaled) to the native res anyway. Isn't it?

Al Shing,

Perhaps my perception of your dillema is wrong. It appears to me now that you are getting all channels you want now except Starz and Max?

Actually, I had to subcribe to Starz and Max before I got them. I had OMP prior to doing so. I don't think Digital Platinum gets you Starz and Maz SD or HD, does it?

I'm not surprized that Comcast hasn't figured this out, yet. They've sent several truck rolls & numerous signals to my box ... still no new channels?!? The HSI side is no better:mad:

Originally posted by Al Shing
He said he would research the problem today and then call me after I got home from work to follow up. I think there should be enough info for them to figure out that there is a problem with those two new channels in areas such as Des Moines, Auburn, and Renton, and then figure out which amps or filters aren't passing the signal. I would assume that the new channels were added to a new bandwidth frequency range, and something is not passing the frequency range along. The problem might be down at the node level, and between that and few customers subbing both HD and Starz and Cinemax, they might not have enough reports to tell them that it is more than an individual problem. Their hands are also pretty full with the VOD implementations and fallout from that.

My concern is that if they can't resolve this, it might affect future channels that are going to be added, but Starz and Max are low priorities with me anyway. If they're not fixed by April 1st, I'll call and downgrade from Platinum to whatever gives me HBO and SHO, but not Starz and MAX. End of problem.

I have Digital Platinum, but apparently an old version of it that costs $56 instead of $53, as per the current price schedule. Apparently, in order to get the $53 price, I have to pay an additional $39.99 for basic cable. My basic cable is included in the HOA maintenance fees, so I don't have to pay for basic explicitly. So, the $56 fee is a "special deal" that they aren't offering any more. No, I don't understand it either, but I wouldn't be surprised if this had something to do with it. However, I have everything they offer except for the ala carte foreign language channels that I haven't explicitly subscribed to. This includes everything beween 471 and 599, and 664 and 665.

The CSR that called Saturday to confirm Sunday said my billing and accounting records looked fine, but she questioned my request for a box with DVI. She said they weren't supporting DVI, but the request was on the work order as a request for a new box for firewire. The tech that came out was acting like he wasn't going to swap out the box except as a last resort. Maybe they are short on 6200's now, but they really should be giving those out to the old timers, and giving the handme downs to the newbies who won't know any better.

Originally posted by Babula
How can you control the 6200 or your monitor to be the controlling factor as to who does what to whom? If the input to the monitor is different than the native resolution, then my understanding of the way things work is that it is "converted" (scaled) to the native res anyway. Isn't it?
That's right, at least for my set and I believe the majority, if not all, of digital sets like LCDs and plasmas. So for high def it sounds like both you and I are going to have at least the TV doing some scaling. I would just rather minimize the cable box's interaction with the signal. As mentioned above, passing along the native signal to the TV and letting the TV deal with it would be the ultimate solution, but the Moto boxes can't do it and I've never heard mention that it's a forthcoming feature.

The firewire output is always native, so that's one way to keep the 6200 from scaling.

--
Steve

Originally posted by kanefsky
The firewire output is always native, so that's one way to keep the 6200 from scaling.

--
Steve
That's interesting. I wonder if I could somehow feed the firewire into my HTPC and have it pass along the native signal via DVI to my television. Anyone know of a software solution that would accomplish this?

I got home and found Starz HD and Cinemax HD working. The tech also called as promised and told me he understood they might be working now. So the system works.

No, I didn't ask what the problem was.

Others are being deprived of lots more, as the big boys hold customers hostage "for their own good". However, considering the large markets involved, this could be settled long before we see KIRO-HD:

Viacom Channels Yanked From DISH Network
Customers In 16 Markets Lose CBS Affiliate
http://www.kirotv.com/money/2907392/detail.html

Howdy all,

Lots of good info on this forum, but I have a few questions I'm hoping someone can answer for me....

If got the Hitachi 57T500 RP HDTV with the DCT5100 Box. The cable hookup (right now) goes into the 5100, then out via component to the TV and Optical to the reciever.

Also out of the 5100, I've got composite Video and L/R audio out to my SA Tivo S1, and then S-video to the HDTV.

HDTV & DTV picture (channels 100-665) is pretty good, but analog just plain sucks - it's watered down, gray and fuzzy - especially out of the TiVO.

When the tech installed the 5100, I had a 2 GHz splitter in the path to get an analog fed to the HDTV NTSC tuner, but had to remove it due to signal degradation at the splitter. I've also tried using S-video out of the cable box to the TiVO, which made things worse - I read somethere that the Y-Comb filters on the 5100 really don't work well for analog.

Sound is perfect, ED/HD is great, SD analog bites

1) Will upgrading to the 6200 help solve these analog issues?
2) Is there any way to boost the signal coming in so I can split it off to the VCR/NTSC Tuners (Cable running across floor is not permanent solution....)

Any suggestions appreciated.

Wazzu94,

I believe the 6200 is better than the 5100 on channels 100 and up (digital realm). Not much difference for the "real" analog channels (below 100). I would note that the 100 and up channels are better if the 4:3 option on the setup menu is set to 480p.

I notice a big difference with the 6200 on the lower channels also. The colors are much deeper and the picture much clearer when set to 480P. My Tv switches to HD color setting when set a 480P signal, so that may make the difference.

Originally posted by wareagle
Others are being deprived of lots more, as the big boys hold customers hostage "for their own good". However, considering the large markets involved, this could be settled long before we see KIRO-HD:

Viacom Channels Yanked From DISH Network
Customers In 16 Markets Lose CBS Affiliate
http://www.kirotv.com/money/2907392/detail.html
It is worse....Viacom is reportedly yanking Martha Stewart from their syndication...very upsetting to the wife.

The good news however, is Maxhd is now finally working. For that matter, I think everything now with Comcast is up and running, i.e., no more issues (firmware, VOD, etc) aside from the KIRO-HD fiasco. Once that is settled, there won't be much more to discuss here, until the 6208 hits the streets, which I hope is a better implementation than the bug ridden DISH DVRs that I once owned...

Not everyone is up and running yet. Still no VOD or 7.07 update in Auburn as of 7:00 am this morning.

Originally posted by churlock
... I think everything now with Comcast is up and running, i.e., no more issues (firmware, VOD, etc) aside from the KIRO-HD fiasco.


Maybe for Renton - in Sammamish I have no VOD, no DVI, and no firmware upgrades.... Jeremy any idea when these will be implemented for the Sammamish area?

Originally posted by churlock
It is worse....Viacom is reportedly yanking Martha Stewart from their syndication...very upsetting to the wife.

The good news however, is Maxhd is now finally working. For that matter, I think everything now with Comcast is up and running, i.e., no more issues (firmware, VOD, etc) aside from the KIRO-HD fiasco. Once that is settled, there won't be much more to discuss here, until the 6208 hits the streets, which I hope is a better implementation than the bug ridden DISH DVRs that I once owned...

Which Martha shows are affected by the Viacom yanking? (Spouse wants to know.) It still seems to be on KONG.

Firmware and VOD aren't quite settled, since some of us (e.g., Bellevue) don't have either update, yet. And it seems like it will be 6408, not 6208, here -- which means we should have plenty to discuss for a while.

I just got my 6200 after telling the Comcast CSR that I was having trouble with CinemaxHD not coming in quickly when I change the channel, and that I didn't have VOD on my 5100 box, but did on my 2000 box. She soft hit the 5100 box, and said she wasn't getting any response back from it, saying that I could have a weak signal to the box. We scheduled a truck roll for today, and the Comcast tech did a line check here and said that I had a strong signal, and he swapped out the 5100 box for a 6200 box. After hookup in about 5 minutes, the box was downloading new firmware, installing VOD, and CinHD comes in right when I tune to it. The tech did say that these 5100 boxes are still pretty buggy and a few of these are floating out there. So, if you need a reason to get the new box, and don't have VOD yet, just tell them that and you get the new box!

Anyone in the Tacoma area have VOD?
I am about 20 miles south of Tacoma in Spanaway and still don't have it.
I do have the 7.07 firmware update though.
I called in and the CSR told me 4-6 weeks. :mad:

I'm in Olympia, and I have not yet seen VOD. I guess it should show up on the menu somewhere, so that is where I've been looking. I do have 7.07, and use DVI on my 6200 (recently swapped for a 5100).

And nobody on the Eastside has VOD, right? (I don't in Woodinville)

Last time I talked to a CSR, they said very likely before the end of this month...

So, Mark, don't worry, you're not the only one...

-eric

Are the OMP problems settled for everyone with those Starz and MAX HD channels? Anyone still outstanding raise your hands.

Originally posted by ericjut
And nobody on the Eastside has VOD, right? (I don't in Woodinville)


It would be great to see a rollout schedule for the eastside. Would this be possible? It would make the wait easier.

No VOD in south Auburn, and this is a week after getting the message stating 'it is here!' Uh-huh.

Originally posted by wareagle
Which Martha shows are affected by the Viacom yanking? (Spouse wants to know.) It still seems to be on KONG.......
Sorry, I don't have any references for this; we've seen it televised twice on evening news. However, each time it was, "CBS affilitates" was mentioned in the same breath. Being that she is broadcasted here on NBC, I'm not sure what to make of it.
Also, now that Viacom and DISH have settled, maybe there is still hope with Cox and Comcast for a timely agreement. I can't pull my set top HD OTA box until they do. (anybody interested in a Samsung SIR-T150?)

Originally posted by Malcolm_B
No VOD in south Auburn, and this is a week after getting the message stating 'it is here!' Uh-huh.

At least they're communicating with you. All I get in Bellevue are messages trying to push PPV wrestling, of all things.

I got that message too! Thought it was going to tell that VOD is really here this time, but just $49 wrasslin' message. And the wait continues. . .

Originally posted by markrez
Anyone in the Tacoma area have VOD?
I am about 20 miles south of Tacoma in Spanaway and still don't have it.
I do have the 7.07 firmware update though.
I called in and the CSR told me 4-6 weeks. :mad:

I'm in University Place (between Tacoma and Lakewood) and VOD appeared this morning.

Though none of it seems to work. I get a We are hacing problems tuning to your video error no matter what I try to play.

Is there any chance that 'subscribing' to the on-demand option would tip comcast off if someone was receiving all the movie channels when they weren't supposed to?

..just curious..

Originally posted by bloodzombie
Is there any chance that 'subscribing' to the on-demand option would tip comcast off if someone was receiving all the movie channels when they weren't supposed to?

..just curious..

Hypothetically speaking of course!;)

Originally posted by phunkyphresh
Hypothetically speaking of course!;)


Yeah... my umm.. friend was wondering.


it says that you have to subscribe to on-demand, but that subscribing costs zero dollars and I... he is worried to change anything because he likes the way it is now.

do you think it's safe, or should I just leave it alone?

Not sure if this is the same thing, but this post from Jeremyfr might answer your question.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=3477841#post3477841

No, not the same, I've had all the movie channels ever since they installed my box. The installer was a stoner and I think he screwed up.

Sorry for not reading all 2400+ posts in this thread, but does anyone know if you can add HD to the $12 basic cable they're forced to offer in Seattle?

On Demand is now available in Lakewood. (Just south of Tacoma) Cool! Let's see Dish or DirectTV offer that!

Now if there was only a HD version of VOD available. Oh well...

Originally posted by Karyk
Sorry for not reading all 2400+ posts in this thread, but does anyone know if you can add HD to the $12 basic cable they're forced to offer in Seattle?

you need digital cable (digital classic or higher) to add on the HD channels..

My DVI cable is on the way for my 6200. How can I tell if the firmware is at the right level? Are there any indicators in menus?

Go to Menu, then select Setup, then Cable Box.

Select See Configuration and hit right arrow. This should bring up the Config screen, which shows the Software and Firmware levels. Firmware should be 07.07 for the DVI and Firewire support.

My 5100 would not accept the firmware download for VOD. 2 tries over 4 days by CSRs at pushing it also failed. I wasn't able to be at the house, so I left a list with my daughter which included replacing the 5100 with a 6200 and some other cleanup I thought would improve the really bad anlog on lower SD channels. Worse than I would expect of the alleged flaws in the 5100. My daughter said the service tech seemed to know what to do and he explained to her what he was doing as he worked.
Surprise 1: He removed the the filters that AT&T installed with the cable modem. He claimed they were stopping the download.
He did replace the 5100 with a 6200. I didn't leave my DVI cable out but he said he knew it would work. He also said that he didn't know if the firewire was activated. I haven't tested yet, but I suspect it does.
Surprise 2: He removed my 2ghz Monster splitter to the cable box and ReplayTV and replaced it with one of his. He said you don't need a 2ghz splitter and I know ours is clean.
Results: My lower analog SD channels are as flawless as I would expect blown up on a 42 in plasma. The audio from the 6200 is feed by an optical cable and has the occasional crackle others have mentioned. I think VOD is wonderful. I can't go the theaters and have over 300 DVDs. I may not be buying as many.
Cheers...

Re: mention of the "monster" brand spliter in the previous post.

Folks, don't be fooled. These are not good splitters.

At work we use splitters by "regal." You can get them from Westlake Electronics in Seattle. They are cheap, and they are very good. Are they covered with gold? no. Do they come in packages with graphs and questionable marketing spew? No.

But they work very well. Very high quality. The best thing I ever did for the quality of my video on analog feeds was to dump the monster splitters.

Originally posted by ianken
Re: mention of the "monster" brand spliter in the previous post.

Folks, don't be fooled. These are not good splitters. .

Is anything made by Monster even average quality? Years ago I bought a bunch of cables from them and discovered they let more ghosting into my system than the cheap generic cables I'd bought at Eagle Hardware. A lot more ghosting (I had three VCRs at the time, so a lot of cables.) After that experience (and being completely dissatisfied with Magnolia Hi-Fi's response) I've not even considered ever buying another Monster product.

Paying a premium for inferior quality doesn't make any sense.

I agree on the quality of Monster cables. Several years ago I bought a full set for my system. Everyone failed within a couple of years, most lost at least one connector. One even snapped off leaving the pin inside my subwoofer input and had to be drilled out.

They are crap......

Here's another vote for the Regal splitters. They work wonderfully. I also previously had another brand of splitter (not Monster, but similar) and had some of the same problems described above until I replaced it with the Regal.

Originally posted by WiFi-Spy
you need digital cable (digital classic or higher) to add on the HD channels..

not true..


You can get the $12.99 limited package, and add $6 a month for the digital box if all you want is the HD networks.

Originally posted by bloodzombie
You can get the $12.99 limited package, and add $6 a month for the digital box if all you want is the HD networks. To summarize the previous 2400 posts - yes, you *can* get this deal (basic only plus HD digital locals). But be prepared to *insist* on this - they probably won't give you this deal without a fight. Also be prepared to call back 3-4 times until you get a CSR who will agree to this deal...

Originally posted by jimre
To summarize the previous 2400 posts - yes, you *can* get this deal (basic only plus HD digital locals). But be prepared to *insist* on this - they probably won't give you this deal without a fight. Also be prepared to call back 3-4 times until you get a CSR who will agree to this deal...


I just called and said "I just got an HDTV, what's the cheapest package I can get where I get HD channels?" and he told me I could keep my limited package and pay for the box. it was really easy.

Originally posted by wareagle
Which Martha shows are affected by the Viacom yanking? (Spouse wants to know.) It still seems to be on KONG.......

I've heard KING will continue riding the Martha horse, probably until it no longer brings in advertising money.

Originally posted by ianken
...At work we use splitters by "regal." You can get them from Westlake Electronics in Seattle.
The splitter provided by Comcast was a "Regal".

I am surprised no one commented about the Cable Internet Filters being removed! ..." because they were preventing the firmware download"...
It was a surprise to me...

aha...no wonder they are offering free basic if you have a cable modem. Without the internet filter you would get it anyway.

Originally posted by Karyk
Sorry for not reading all 2400+ posts in this thread, but does anyone know if you can add HD to the $12 basic cable they're forced to offer in Seattle?

Yes you can. It is an additional $10.20 a month.

I've had it for 3 months now and I still get all of the cable channels ;-)

-Laudon

I use all regal as well and have had really good luck with them myself,

Hehe bet you all were wondering what happened to me huh?? j/k

Originally posted by Jeremyfr
I use all regal as well and have had really good luck with them myself,

Hehe bet you all were wondering what happened to me huh?? j/k

naw... we thought you were off researching when VOD & the firmware upgrade was coming to the eastside... :D

Originally posted by artpease
I am surprised no one commented about the Cable Internet Filters being removed! ..." because they were preventing the firmware download"...
It was a surprise to me...

Well my 5100 is still showing 5.03 and it is on the same line as my cable modem with the filter, so perhaps that is affecting it. But the filter was there when they installed the 5100 and it downloaded the 5.03 firmware then (unless it's on the box already).

My DCT2000 in the other room has been at 7.04 for a week now.

Guess I'll call Comcast tomorrow and have them try and force the download again and see about getting a 6200 box.

Originally posted by eldub1999
Yes you can. It is an additional $10.20 a month.

I've had it for 3 months now and I still get all of the cable channels ;-)

-Laudon

GRRR screw the CSR that forced me to get digital classic before i could get the HD package :mad:

FYI, had a Comcast person call me up and say that they wanted to come out and check my HD boxes because for some reason they were refusing to download the VOD software.

Is this VOD in HD?

Originally posted by chris5977


Is this VOD in HD?

no. VOD is in SD only (for now)

I noticed in my scan of the HD channels that KCTS HD had PBS HD on it this morning. I don't know if they are planning to have programming on during the day on a regular basis, but it would make sense to have HD on full time on the weekends at least.

Does anyone know if VOD is available or coming to the Edmonds area. Last I heard we were still in Snohomish county which I thought was supposed to be all VOD by now. Are there any other forum members from Edmonds? With HD?

Edmonds has not launched yet no eta of when it will either.

Jeremy, how about the Eastside? Any ETA?

Any news updates on the availability of Discovery HD?

Thanks for the input on HDTV and the basic cable. I'll have to give it a try next month (I'm only interested in the Mariners in HD). Since I already have Comcast Internet it might not cost me that much more!

Originally posted by Jeremyfr
Edmonds has not launched yet no eta of when it will either. Does that include the Shoreline (Richmond Beach) area as well?

Howdy,

Found an interesting item Saturday when the tech was out looking at my signal strength....

He noticed that the firmware on the box was still at 5.03, and then tried to hit the box remotely, which didn't repond. He took a look at my cable path, saw my Monster Power filter bar (MP-HTS1000MKII) there, uplugged the feed from the bar and went straight into the box.

Box immediately responded to remote requests.

Apparently, the Monster Power units with the coax fittings are pass-thru, but only one way. They filter out return traffic, which was causing my box to go haywire and not download F/W. Tech said that he'd seen lots of this before, and that the Monster Power bars will not work with VOD at all.

Long story short - Monster Power coax filters break stuff.

I would not buy anything that has the word Monster in it. Monster cable, Monster box (maybe Monster's Ball or Monster with Halle an Nicole respectively).

There is (or used to be) a faq in the Tweaks and Do-It-Yourself forum for creating your own composite and component cables using RG6 cable. Appearently this method is used by professional installers for long runs in custom installations. For fun I tried it out and the quality of the cables was excellent. If you can crimp f connectors to rg6 and find a rat shack in your neighborhood you should be fine.

RE: Monster Stuff

In hindsight, I'll agree with that. No more Monster for me - AudioQuest from here on out.....
_______________________________
Got suckered by the Marketing Machine

Only thing Monster in my whole system is my sub cable, funny now that I think of it the only thing in any of my stuff monster is the cables running my subs, both my car and my house, and the car is getting changed out this weekend for StreetWires since as was stated before monsters connectors are crap and one of mine broke in my car.

I actually happy with my Home sub cable but I got it for cost as well I would never have paid full price for it.

I actually like AudioQuest and Acoustic Research cables, or making my own depending on the cable.

I think I'll be dropping digital, and settle for tuning local HDTV through my 3410A's QAM tuner. I've been watching zero live HDTV anyway, and no digital tier programming, either, so why am I paying for it? I'm still pissed about the 6x08 push back, and I'm happy to give Comcast less money until they deliver on the DVR promise.

In a semi-related issue, I've got crappy reception in my lower analog channels. I think it's a signal strength issue. I reduced the number of splits in the system by cutting out most of the outlets in the house (bypassed a four-way splitter), and this improved the signal. Cutting out the cable modem (initial two-way split is cable modem and everything else), improved it some more, though there is still noticable noise. Right now, my plan is to ping Comcast on the issue, and if all else fails, switch to DSL to get that last little bit of signal strength back.

Thanks,

--Mike

Originally posted by Wazzu94
...Long story short - Monster Power coax filters break stuff.

While I'm not going to defend Monster Cable, I do feel it worthwhile to point out that this problem is not exclusive to Monster. Quite a few surge protector devices for coax cable are not bi-directional and exhibit this same behavior.

Originally posted by Llamas
In a semi-related issue, I've got crappy reception in my lower analog channels. I think it's a signal strength issue.

Couple other things to possibly try, in case you haven't already, are to put coax terminators on any unused coax outlets that are still live and/or to try a DC Coupler instead of the initial two way splitter so that you can choose to send more signal strength to the TV side rather than an equal divide between cable modem and TV.

Originally posted by JasG
Does that include the Shoreline (Richmond Beach) area as well?
You too huh? I'm about a block away from Aurora Village and don't have VOD yet. I got Starz and Cinemax HD on the day they said they were going to do it, so I was happy with that. With two ReplayTVs I don't have much need for VOD, but I do check the menu every now and then just because I want to try it.

Re: RE: Firmware Downloads

Yeah, you are correct there. I guess I was trying to point out that if you have an inline noise filter on a power bar (Monster, Belkin, APX, etc) you may have problems with F/W downloads and VOD.

Originally posted by danstone
Couple other things to possibly try, in case you haven't already, are to put coax terminators on any unused coax outlets that are still live and/or to try a DC Coupler instead of the initial two way splitter so that you can choose to send more signal strength to the TV side rather than an equal divide between cable modem and TV.

The current distrubution has no unused splits. I am not familiar with DC couplers, what are they?

Thanks,

--Mike

Am I the only basketball fan here?

Originally posted by Llamas
... I'm still pissed about the 6x08 push back...

--Mike
Any references for this, i.e., where did you hear this???

The original rollout was supposed to be in the Dec 17- Jan 17 range, and then they announced that they were skipping the 6208 in our market to wait for the 6408, which ships this summer sometime, hopefully. There's more in the recorder forum, it's nothing new.

--Mike

Originally posted by Llamas
I am not familiar with DC couplers, what are they?

A directional coupler is essentially a splitter with differential loss. You can try sending the split with the greater loss to the cable modem (most likely will not affect your cable modem service at all unless your overall signal coming into the house is *extremely* low) which will leave a greater portion of the signal strength to split among your TV's. If, however, you begin to experience loss of block sync on your cable modem then you should put the modem on the leg with lower loss and will likely need to use an amplifier on the TV leg.

Here's some more info:

http://www.broadbandreports.com/forum/remark,8996201~mode=flat

http://www.cable-modems.org/Q&A/index.php?one_question=50

Hope this might be helpful.

I'll take a look, thanks. I'm afraid that amplifier might be necessary, either way I go, since even with the splitter removed, I still get some noise in the channel 2-8 that I don't see in higher channels.

Rather than soak up bandwidth in the HDTV forum, I'll follow up on this elsewhere.

Thanks again for the help.

--Mike

Anyone in the Woodinville area been seeing breakup of complete disappearnce of 664 and 665 INHD channels the last few days?

Originally posted by Babula
Anyone in the Woodinville area been seeing breakup of complete disappearnce of 664 and 665 INHD channels the last few days?

I was just going to ask the same question. yeah, I've been seeing it over the last few days - going on right now too...

no problems with any of the other broadcast HD channels, just inHD...

I had this problem for awhile when I first got my old 5100. It then settled down since then and started up again 3/16. I guess its time for a call to Comcast.

Same here. Noticed the breakups/pixilization on INHD1 yesterday. Pretty annoying.

Darryl

VOD in Madison Valley as of Monday! This should save some wear and tear on my DVD player-VOD Barney instead of DVD Barney.

Since someone else mentioned basketball and the tournament starts tomorrow, is there an official it's starting to suck badly again that we have no CBSHD on Comcast thread?

Originally posted by Tivolicious
Am I the only basketball fan here?

I guess that I am. Or have people just given up on CBS?

Might be putting up some heavy curtains so I can watch via my OTA and X1.

Originally posted by Tivolicious
Or have people just given up on CBS?
This one gets my vote. Comast and CBS don't seem to interested in getting a deal worked out to make this happen. Seems like a lot of finger pointing.

I'm no basketball fan, but I haven't given up on CBS- it's just that we've beaten it to death on this thread to no avail. If anyone knows something EFFECTIVE we can do to get CBS-HD, please let me know. It's getting really annoying, and as far as I can tell it's just a pissing contest between Comcast and Cox.

"CBS will limit its regional HD coverage to the venue in St. Louis due to the logistics of sending HD equipment and crews—it’s easier to get from the middle of the country to the destination of the Final Four in San Antonio, TX."
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
So, no rush Comcast and Cox -- you have another week to get your act together. Seriously, though, it would be nice to at least get CBS on a digital channel.

"... None of the tournament games on KIRO-TV, the CBS affiliate in Seattle, will be available in high definition over the Comcast cable company's local wires. Cox Enterprises of Atlanta, which owns KIRO, and Philadelphia-based Comcast Corp. are apparently engaged in a national tiff over programming costs; a spat that dribbles down to Seattle.....

Sure, the owners are in Atlanta--they're in no hurry. Twits.

http://seattle.bizjournals.com/seattle/stories/2004/03/15/daily24.html?jst=b_ln_hl

I think Comcast should do a Charlie and pull the Cbs local sd feed off the cable for a while and see if negotiations will move forward.

My thought on this is, forget talking to Comcast and CBS, write into the sponsors on the shows sponsoring CBS sports and other programs.

Budweiser and Miller and the other std companies who sponsor sports....

Tell them we are watching other channels until CBS gets their act together. We'll also start using products we see on the other stations/shows.

That will hit KIRO and CBS more than writing letters or calling either one of these 2 guys.

Ric

Originally posted by Bruceko
I think Comcast should do a Charlie and pull the Cbs local sd feed off the cable for a while and see if negotiations will move forward.

Bad idea, even if it were legal ("must carry"). Not in Comcast's best interest to irritate the vast majority of their customers who don't give a rat's a$$ whether you and I ever get KIRO-HD.

Okay i dont know so i'm gonna ask, What is VOD? (video on demand?) dont you have to pay for that extra or something??


Also is there some place i can see maybe where mariners games might be in HDTV this year? (a schedule or sorts or something? IF they will be this year?)

Is anyone else in Kitsap / Bremerton failing to get KCTS-HD on 108? I seem to get all the subchannels, but when I try to tune the actual HD (and yes, I'm aware of the limited hours), I get squat. Is the problem local to me, or general to the Bremerton service area?

I'm getting 108 in Cap hill and am seeing more bugs than a MN summer. Maybe they ate your feed. I don't even watch it now any more.

Tivo....I'm a HUGE ball fan....check NBATV rants from the past. I too can't beleive super bowl and tourny again....masters to come. Too bad were still in the minority. My kiro feed in the city is terrible as well. I would evengo with the digital feed for a while if they could that on at least.

Originally posted by Jinx
Okay i dont know so i'm gonna ask, What is VOD? (video on demand?) dont you have to pay for that extra or something??

This will tell you more about the video on demand service:

http://www.onlycablecan.com/home.html

Long time listener, first time caller - but since I actually have something semi-original to contribute, I figured I'd finally post something.

A friend of mine had asked pretty much the same question as Jinx about the M's and their HDTV schedule. After not being successful trying to find anything on my own, I emailed the M's through their website asking for an HDTV schedule at an minimum, and ideally for a run down of what (if anything) they'd be doing with HD over the 2004 season. The reply:

"Thank you for contacting us regarding HDTV. Fox Sports Net Northwest and Comcast are currently in negotiations to broadcast HDTV for the 2004 season. We will make an announcement when the agreement is final."

Non-commital and ambigous? Sure. Automated? Perhaps. But it does sound as though they plan on doing something ("...WHEN the agreement is final"). My only hope is that it is locally produced. Last years mixed Japanese video/FSN announcers, while better than nothing, left a bit to be desired.

Anyone else have news or insight on this?

"Comcast" and "negotiations" in the same sentence petrifies me...:eek:

Originally posted by artpease
"Comcast" and "negotiations" in the same sentence petrifies me...:eek:

He he he...now that you mention it <cough> NBA-TV </cough>, it probably isn't a good idea to schedule an opening day HD party. ;)

Seriously, there are two ways to look at this. On the one hand, they did manage to get a deal done between the two parties last year. On the other hand, that was probably done locally (no facts, just a wild assertion) between the regional Comcast business unit and FSN NW.

While this deal may be between the same people, it could be (is likely even?) part of a larger FSN HD (national) contract between the two respective motherships (a la KIRO). And if that turns out to be the case, who knows what will happen and when.

At least it's something different to stew over instead of KIRO-HD.

I can imagine 40 years ago "...will the Mariners be televised in color?..." Don't know, they're in negotiation. I wonder what the topic will be in twenty years...

Yeah no kidding.

Originally posted by artpease
"Comcast" and "negotiations" in the same sentence petrifies me...:eek:

Has anyone in the Auburn area got VOD yet??? It has been several weeks since it was announced both over cable and in the local media but still no VOD here.

No VOD in this part of Auburn (south end) and the only part that angers me is getting that message that VOD is here . . . except for those who don't have it yet!

Originally posted by patfaram
aha...no wonder they are offering free basic if you have a cable modem. Without the internet filter you would get it anyway.
I was telling my neighbor about this, i.e, if you get broadband, you get basic cable for free. However, I'll be dam if I can find it stated on any of Comcast's pages. Does anyone know where this is "officially" stated?? (or is it just unsaid that if you get broadband only you can get the analog channels simply by using a splitter?)

My understanding of Comcast's pricing here in King County, east of Renton:

Broadband Internet only (no TV) is $55;

Basic Cable TV only (channels 2-32 and a few more, with no internet) is $13;

Broadband and ANY Cable TV: $10 discount for the combo.

So the combo of Internet + Basic Cable = $58 (instead of $68).

The amounts vary slightly based on city/county and local tax rates.

I have the Internet/Basic Cable TV combo @ $58, only because I get Basic Cable TV for $3. DirecTV and OTA HDTV are my primary programming sources. Our analog cable picture quality is marginal, even after they rebuilt their plant to support digital.

These Comcast internet prices include rental of their cable modem @ $3 per month.

My understanding is that non-premium HDTV channels are available for free, but if you need to rent a Comcast STB, there is a monthly fee. I don't know what that current amount is.

Now that I think about it - the $10/month "discount" you get from Comcast for having both internet & cable is really just subtracting out the basic cable fees you're already paying. People who subscribe to just internet access are essentially paying that $10/month for basic cable, whether they realize it or not. Might as well use it if you're paying for it...

My house was incorrectly wired for cable and with cheap RG-59 cable. Until now, I've been able to make do with a commercial amplifier located where the signal enters the house. However, with the amp, I lose my cable return signal. It's time to rewire for VOD and the stuff that needs the return signal. I have cable INTERNET, noisy phone lines, and need Ethernet for my computers. I'm thinking of running the Beldan Banana cable (2 RG-6, 2 CAT5E, 2 Fiber cables) in a star pattern.

Looking toward future needs, any words of wisdom? Suggestions on patch panels? etc.

Thanks,

Stephen Stimac:confused:

Stephen:

Are you aware that you can buy bi-directional amplifiers (some with builtin splitters) that support cable TV and internet download and upload?

Radio Shack (among others) sells them. You may want to try one before you commit to a major wiring effort, unless you have wanted to upgrade your wiring anyway.

I'm installing a gas fireplace insert and need to run the gas from one end of the house to the other. These means cutting out the sheetrock. While it's exposed, I'm rewiring. The cable feed is the wrong direction. The noisy phone lines and daisly-chained cable routing need to be corrected. I lose 18dB of cable signal before the signal gets to my cable box. My control area is at the end of the routing. I would like the option of viewing a digital cable chanel in another room. That way, I can start a movie in the living room and finish watching it in the master bedroom.

Stephen

I've had the "In Demand" choice on my menu for a couple weeks I get a "communication error" when I try to use it. Called a rep and she sent a signal to my box that didn't fix it, but now I have to hit "enter" for one and two digit channels. She said I'll need a tech visit.

I feel your pain without KIRO HD on Comcast. I get it OTA. The NCAA tourney games in HD are in Kansas City this week. On Thurday I got to watch the HD game from KC on digital KIRO and Gonzaga on analog KIRO at the same time. Wasn't home, but I suppose the same was true for the Huskies and the other Zag game.

The rep said Comcast HD is now available in my neighborhood and I suppose I'll get it. Does the HD box have an input for antenna so I can switch to KIRO digital OTA? Otherwise, with just one set of HD inputs on my TV, I'd have to get an A/B switch and manually switch, I guess.

Yeah it was that way on Friday for the Husky game. Course I kind of wish it wasn't so I could have watched the Husky game in the digital feed, instead of the crappy, crackling SD feed.

In addition to the pixelization noted on the INHD channels, the major networks seem to be having an increasing number of problems, especially with sound. Last night, after a few picture & sound glitches early in the program, KOMO-HD completely lost sound during a long commercial break in "The Practice" (10PM). A few weeks earlier, I noticed a similar loss of sound on KING-TV during a prime time program. I don't know if someone is asleep at the switch, or if it's equipment trouble. At any rate, they need to work on it.

I received an email from Mr. Kipp saying that they are still negotiating the CBS deal across North America. He seemed pretty confident that it will happen this year.


Another question: Is VOD available in the Snoqualmie area already?

wareagle,

I won't bet anything on this, but I think KOMO had problems yesterday night, not Comcast. I had no issues with any other channels, but Alias also had serious sound issues that seemed to be triggered by commercial breaks. Of course, KOMO is the only local channel always in 5.1...

-eric

Originally posted by hinten
I received an email from Mr. Kipp saying that they are still negotiating the CBS deal across North America. He seemed pretty confident that it will happen this year.That's what they said *last* year...
Another question: Is VOD available in the Snoqualmie area already? Nope, nothing here in North Bend yet. Sounds like the Eastside is one of the last areas for this rollout.

I firmly believe that any sound issues with KOMO, and other local DTV are caused by someone "falling asleep" at the switch. Can't they automate the process for goodness sake?

I see similar things on DirecTV CBS HDTV feeds (80 and 81). They invest thousands of dollars in this stuff and can't always do it right. Amazing.

It is like the NBA guy who gets millions per year and can't make a foul shot!

So, I had to call Comcast because one of my channels was flipping out for awhile, and when I brought up that VOD wasn't in my area (Auburn) the phone tech almost let out a laugh and said: 'No, not yet.' That doesn't sound very positive for it coming any time soon. So much for that message, WEEKS ago!

So, exactly how do I find out which hardware and software version my Motorola box is? I looked at some comparison graphics and they all look the same to me.

I have a dilemma:

I just got a call from Comcast. They would like to switch my 5100 to a 6200.

My problem is that I signed up for lifeline cable ($12) + HD ($5). In the process they sent the whole darn package to me. As such I have ESPN-HD, HBO, Showtime, INHD. Somebody please warn me not to be greedy.

Originally posted by hinten
So, exactly how do I find out which hardware and software version my Motorola box is? I looked at some comparison graphics and they all look the same to me. Motorola HD set-top box FAQ: http://cjhengineering.com/DCTHDFAQ.htm. This FAQ was written for the 5100, but the 6200 works the same.

Tivo....don't do it!
Someone I know really well ;), was in the same position as you, and switched over to a 6200 from the 5100. The device rebooted a few times and whammo...bye-bye free premium channels. I suggest you run it out as long as you possibly can. It's their ineptness, and it should be rewarded accordingly.

As far as the Mariners go, I emailed Comcast and received a response they will be doing select games similar to last year. Although after looking at the schedule(id post it but the email is at home) it seems fairly slim. Mabey 20 games, starting in June... After thinking about it I am wondering if someone that didn't know what they were talking about emailed me last years schedule. I'm hoping this is the case since it would be nice to get more then just 20 games.