Let me add on to my previous comment concerning "cable-card"
Advertising people are in the same league as sales people-clueless.
http://www.theregister.co.uk/2005/04/04/ms_relocates_switzerland/ is an example of their knowledge of geography.
Actually, I suggest using a telephone and calling JVC. I once got to a real person at HP who admitted that some advertising copy about a scanner was bad as it said that it came with PC software and was "twain-compliant" for macs. Actually it had software for both types of computers as the guy I talked to was using it on his mac. Even the US Social Security/Medicare press office which I once called transferred me to their inside expert who explained the real rules and he also said that the press office was/is incompetent. My second choice would be to send them an email; but, that risks getting formulaic responses written by the help desk staffed by newbies. sam:)

Did we ever get any formal answer about Mariner's games in HD this season?

With the return of the Mariners, the limited size of the HD becomes even more apparent. Taping the game on analog channel 30, a three or four hour recording takes up a huge amount of space. With the NCAA finals tonight, I almost ran out of room.

Comcast, please move FoxNW, 30, to a digital channel. Better yet, give us the Mariners in HD. At least then it will be worth recording with the DVR. As it stands, it's time to figure out how to use the VCR again.

I do worry that the picture of a SD game on a digital channel might actually look worse than watching the same program on an analog channel. The SD NCAA games on digital HD 107 looked pretty jittery and digitized. However, recording a digital non-HD channel takes up very little room on the hard drive.

Art

Anyone know if KIRO is going to broadcast the 1st two rounds of the Masters in HD on 107? The guys in the HD forum say you need to call the local station and ask for it. I'm not that ambitious. The Comcast guide and the KIRO website don't indicate that they will be.

Brian

Originally posted by bpgreen20
Anyone know if KIRO is going to broadcast the 1st two rounds of the Masters in HD on 107? The guys in the HD forum say you need to call the local station and ask for it. I'm not that ambitious. The Comcast guide and the KIRO website don't indicate that they will be.

Brian

HD? They don't seem to cover the first two rounds at all. I'm not a golf fan, but I believe that's standard practice.

The first two rounds are covered in SD by USA and will be on Universal HD in HD. In some markets the HD coverage of the first two rounds will be on the digital CBS channel while the SD CBS will have the normal programming. I'm wondering if KIRO will show the HD coverage.

per titantv.com schedule, kiro will show 3rd round (saturday p.m.) and final round on sunday in HD

In previous years (prior to getting KIRO-HD) Comcast gave us the first two rounds in HD from USA on their "special event" channel 100. Then it was back to SD on KIRO for the weekend.

Thanks to everyone for helping a newbie with the ATSC vs. QAM issue. I just read the manual for the new JVC HD-61Z786 and it looks like Weil was right. The manual talks about the television being able to tune into analog AND digital cable stations. So it looks like mystery solved - even though its only advertised as having an ATSC tuner, it really has a QAM tuner as well. Thank you Jimre for the newbie tutorial on the differnce between the two tuners.

Thanks again!

I received this email this morning from KIRO. Good news for us golf junkies. Now I just need to figure out how to record this without it being in the comcast on screen guide information.

Mr. Green,

Yes KIRO-TV is pleased to be able to broadcast the Masters in HD on KIRO-DT which you will find either broadcast on channel 7.1 or on Comcast cable channel 107. As you noted, during this time, we will be broadcasting our normal programming on our analog NTSC KIRO-TV channel 7. Thank you for your inquiry as we too are excited to be on Comcast and welcome you to enjoy all four rounds of the Masters in HD as well as other fine CBS HD programming evenings and weekends.

Best Regards,

John H. Walters
Director of Engineering
KIRO-TV

Originally posted by WiFi-Spy
my record light on my 2nd 6412 works now!!!!
It worked for me a couple times, but it hasn't been working the last couple nights that I've looked for it. Is yours still working?

Tim

Originally posted by bpgreen20
Now I just need to figure out how to record this without it being in the comcast on screen guide information.
I'm sure you've already figured this out, but just in case - if you have Comcast's 6412 DVR, you just go to the DVR menu, select Add Recording, and the bottom selection in the resulting menu is for a Manual Recording. For some reason that menu was blank on my DVR this morning, but the manual recording setup still worked.

I'm looking forward to getting home tonight so I can see how it came out. In previous years before the HD-DVR I had to take a partial day off to see it in HD. What I loved about it then was that it was virtually commercial-free. With the DVR I guess it doesn't matter as much :D.

Tim

Originally posted by jeff28
Are you guys following the discussion on the HDTV Programming board about Comcast adding TNT-HD this month? Keep your fingers crossed.
I haven't read that yet, but I'll go check it out, thanks! I'd prefer SpikeTV first, but TNT would be next. I'd fill up my DVR on Law & Order in a day!

As for your DVR problem, I'd call Comcast. Two days this week they were running updates that wiped out my menus so I couldn't watch any saved programs after work, and they credited me for both days when I called (I called during the outage).

BTW, has anyone picked up a second box and used a different input on their TV? I think having one dedicated to movies would make it much easier to manage. Lately I'm finding that my DVR is filling up fast, HBO HD movies and other programs are starting to add up! Of course, the remote would work on both, so that would be interesting. :D

My recording of the Masters in HD on Saturday had lots of problems with artifacting (breakup) of the picture. Could this be because I was trying to watch the recorded part while the box was recording the rest of the program. Was the Motorola box incapable of doing both? Or was it just a problem with the HD broadcast at the station level?

Originally posted by Runco One
My recording of the Masters in HD on Saturday had lots of problems with artifacting (breakup) of the picture. Could this be because I was trying to watch the recorded part while the box was recording the rest of the program. Was the Motorola box incapable of doing both? Or was it just a problem with the HD broadcast at the station level?
I didn't watch the Masters, but I can tell you my box is capable of doing that. I've done that with many programs so I don't have to watch the commercials.

I have had the fast forward/rewind get stuck and not respond to the remote, but that's happened in SD/HD shows, and fully recorded programs. I changed the batteries, but that didn't help. It's very frustrating! :p

Last year select Mariners Baseball games were on a special channel on Comcast in HD in association with FSN/NW, will the games be in HD in '05? I haven't heard a word about it yet!

I did a quick search online, and didn't find anything for this year, but found the article on the 2004 HD games http://www.tmcnet.com/usubmit/2004/Apr/1033730.htm There's some contact numbers at the end that you could try calling and asking

Threads merged.

So the Sonics are on ESPN in HD at home right now, looks fantastic. Last year Comcast broadcast some M's games in HD. To me that says the cameras at Safeco and the Key are HD capable (the exact same camera angle is showing on FSN and ESPN with drastically different pictures). So what is the weak link in the chain that has the rest of the games coming to us in this horrible SD? Right now I'm even willing to put up with Bill Walton over Kevin Calabro because of this killer picture.

In previous years, the only Mariners games shown in HD were those games being broadcast back in Japan (a small subset of Mariners home games). The only HD cameras at Safeco were those belonging to Japanese network NHK, whose HD picture was then merged with Fox Sports' audio for these select games.

Japan shows every home mariner game in HD on NHK...

It's hard to navigate NHK's web site in English, but as far as i can tell they are only planning to broadcast 120 US MLB games in 2005 on their digital HD channel. That's mostly split among Yankess, Mariners, and other teams featuring Japanese stars. Maybe they're showing other games in SD.

i hope i dont' get flamed for asking this but has anybody figured out a way to archive HD cotent from the 6412 outside of the box itself? for example on an htpc disk?

This was just announced minutes ago...

FSN AND DIRECTV TO PRESENT MARINERS BASEBALL IN HDTV
40 Games in HDTV Begins April 20th with the Mariners-A’s Series at Safeco Field

FSN and DIRECTV, Inc. announced today an agreement to present Seattle Mariners baseball in high-definition television (HDTV). The first of 40 Mariners games in HDTV will debut on Wednesday, April 20th at 7pm when the Mariners take on the Oakland Athletics.

All of the live games are available to DIRECTV customers on viewer channel 95 throughout the Northwest region, which includes Washington, Oregon and parts of Montana, Idaho and Alaska.

"FSN always strives to enhance the TV experience for the Mariners and their fans, and providing more games in HDTV certainly supports that effort,” said Mark Shuken, Vice President and General Manager of FSN Northwest. “That DIRECTV is continuing to build upon its own HD offerings is a plus for all local sports fans, and we look forward to a long and successful relationship."

HDTV transmits a picture that is much sharper and clearer than standard-definition television pictures. These games will provide images six times more detailed than the traditional analog format.

“We’re bringing Mariners fans in the Northwest our ‘best stuff’ - the full HD sports experience from DIRECTV,” said Michael Thornton, senior vice president, Programming Acquisitions, DIRECTV, Inc. “No other pay TV provider can or will deliver the breadth and quality of HDTV sports programming to as many households as DIRECTV. We’re looking forward to sharing an exciting season of Mariners’ baseball with its legions of fans.”

The 40-game HDTV schedule will feature some of the most compelling matchups on the Mariners schedule, comprised primarily of telecasts originating from Safeco Field. The games already scheduled to be shown in HDTV include both games of the Oakland A's series on April 20 and 21 followed by the three games against the Boston Red Sox on May 13, 14 and 15. The remaining 35 games will be confirmed in the coming weeks, but are expected to include dates against marquee AL opponents including the Yankees, Angels and Indians.

Originally posted by ntaylor
To me that says the cameras at Safeco and the Key are HD capable (the exact same camera angle is showing on FSN and ESPN with drastically different pictures).

Something people need to understand about Sports TV Broadcasts: The cameras being used for the broadcast have nothing to do with the venue. Each broadcast requires a truck that is rented from a third-party provider by ESPN or FSN. The Truck that ESPN used last night is HD and operates nationally. FSN uses trucks that mostly stay in the Northwest area, and only recently had an HD truck become available for their use. Last night ESPN had an HD truck and FSN had a SD (standard definition) truck.

FSN has had a hard time with getting carrige for HD Production, but as you see above, it looks like they will be on DirecTV for Mariners (remember FSN is owned by News Corp, as is DirecTV.)

I belive that eventually there will be a FSN HD channel on Comcast, but it will probably not be for a while.

Originally posted by billymac
i hope i dont' get flamed for asking this but has anybody figured out a way to archive HD cotent from the 6412 outside of the box itself? for example on an htpc disk?

I use my JVC30K HDTV Recorder.

Bill

FSN AND DIRECTV TO PRESENT MARINERS BASEBALL IN HDTV

anyone know if this will include MLB extra Innings Subscribers?

Originally posted by billymac
i hope i dont' get flamed for asking this but has anybody figured out a way to archive HD cotent from the 6412 outside of the box itself? for example on an htpc disk?

Read this thread:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=403695

When I had the 6200 and the 6412, it used to work. All you need is a firewire cable and some patience. :)

-eric

hey anybody else getting some horizontal line garbage sporadically on 107 during CSI and W.A.T?

it's pretty random, but i'm seeing some weird stuff...just added a new component switch, but not seeing it on any other HD channels, or on SD 107, just the primetime HD shows...

It's at the top of the screen, right?

If it is, it's the "old-style" closed caption information. I heard that for digital channels, they have another way to encode the information that doesn't not bleed into the actual image by using the overscan area (aka, the first few lines at the top), but not every channels uses this digital encoding and revert to use the overscan area instead. Looks like KIRO is one of them.

Please note that I'm not saying that CC info is bad. I'm well aware of tons of people using them. I'm just saying that there is a way for channels to provide the CC information without altering any of the image, and there's no excuse not to use it IMHO.

Solutions:
1. Bug KIRO about their CC info being in the overscan area and request they encode it digitally.
2. Find a way to control the overscan area of your display device. Unfortunately not all of display devices have options for this.

-eric

no, i know what you're talking about, but that's not it

this is not limited to the top of the screen, it happened near the top, in the middle, down low, etc...

Originally posted by billymac
hey anybody else getting some horizontal line garbage sporadically on 107 during CSI and W.A.T?

I am watching my DVR of "CSI" and yes, I am seeing the glitches.

They are in the lower third of the screen, and look like multi-color streaks. They do not look like MPEG artifacts or signal break-ups.

"Law and Order" and "CSI: New York" were fine yesterday, as was "Smallville", "NCIS" on Tuesday, and "CSI: Miami" on Monday.

thanks for the reply nausicaa, that really puts my mind at ease :D

i was fearing that it was the new component switch i installed yesterday

i wasn't seeing it on any other hd channels though, so i was hoping it was just CBS

Yeah, just CSI, and it was indeed happening at random times and positions. One signal break-up, so maybe the feed had some glitches or something.

I had the breakups too. I just finished watching CSI from the DVR.

Another thing...

Last night while watching the end of Survivor, we were FFW through the final commercial break when the box stopped responding. It was stuck in FFW all through the end of Survivor. Then when the show ended, the box turned off. It then displayed - - - - - on the screen. It turned back on and there was no guide information. Then a few seconds later the box clicked and the clock showed the right time and the guide info was back to normal. Strange! (and annoying). Luckily it was only stuck on FF1 so we could still tell what was going on in Survivor.

Yeah my machine sometimes get's a mind of it's own during a FF/REW command. I just let it run it's course.

I've also been getting horizontal streaks sporadically on 107 (the latest being on NUMB3RS last night). In addition, there were periods of a few seconds of total dropout (black screen, no audio).

Originally posted by jeff28
I had the streaks on numbers as well as last week's CSI that was already mentioned by someone. I may try to see if anything on this has come across the OTA thread.

Yes, I had the same problem with my OTA reception. Must be a problem with KIRO-DT's broadcast, or their feed from CBS.

If I describe the Sleep Country commercial, will everyone say they saw that, too? http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v336/consumertalks/roflmao.gif

Originally posted by consumertalks
If I describe the Sleep Country commercial, will everyone say they saw that, too? http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v336/consumertalks/roflmao.gif Yeah, but those commercials just aren't the same without Sunny Kobe Cook in them.... :)

Mariners question...does that posting mean that we can only see Mariners HD on Directv? I have comcast and directv but rarely use Directv lately and would need to realign the dish...

Originally posted by keithaxis
Mariners question...does that posting mean that we can only see Mariners HD on Directv? I have comcast and directv but rarely use Directv lately and would need to realign the dish...

At this time, Mariners will only be in HD on DirecTV. There is a slim possibility of a deal with Comcast, but D* is the only place that is certain.

ABC's "Monday Night Football" will be moving to sister cable channel ESPN in 2006 after 35 years on ABC, according to the Wall Street Journal.

Also reported that NBC is getting the Sunday night games.

Has anyone here had their set professionally calibrated? I tried getting a hold of one ISF certified company in Seattle I could find, but they never returned my e-mail or phone calls... though their answering machine made it sound like they were still in business... hmmm...

For those of you that had someone calibrate your set, would you post who did it and whether you would recommend them?

Thanks!

As confirmed by brownnet above:

The Answer Guy: High definition M's games begin tomorrow

By JOHN MARSHALL
SEATTLE POST-INTELLIGENCER BOOK CRITIC

Q: Jim Davis asks: "Are any of the Mariners' games going to be broadcast in high definition television this year? Last year they had a few on Comcast."

AG: Timely question, Mr. Davis. The first high definition broadcast this season will be tomorrow's game against the A's, followed by Thursday's. There will be 38 other HD broadcasts this season (most will be announced in the coming weeks).

They will not be available through Comcast this season, however; they will be broadcast through DirectTV. The Mariners' broadcasts will be seen on DirectTV's channel 95 and will be available to its customers throughout the Northwest region.

Hi All..

I'm new to posting here although I read this forum on a daily basis. Got a lot of great stuff from everyone here!

My question/problem is with my Comcast HD DVR. Since Sunday I came home and none of my scheduled recording recorded. As of then it still won't record anything. If I pull up the guide and ask to record something in the next hour or so it will but just my scheduled stuff.

Today I did a test, which I have to wait to get home before i see if it works but I deleted my wifes GH series and asked to just have it record todays so we'll see.

Anyone else know what this is? I've had this box for about 5 months now and all had been fine.

Thanks again everyone for any help.

Cam DeLong
Seattle WA

Originally posted by camdelong
Hi All..

I'm new to posting here although I read this forum on a daily basis. Got a lot of great stuff from everyone here!

My question/problem is with my Comcast HD DVR. Since Sunday I came home and none of my scheduled recording recorded. As of then it still won't record anything. If I pull up the guide and ask to record something in the next hour or so it will but just my scheduled stuff.

Today I did a test, which I have to wait to get home before i see if it works but I deleted my wifes GH series and asked to just have it record todays so we'll see.

Anyone else know what this is? I've had this box for about 5 months now and all had been fine.

Thanks again everyone for any help.

Cam DeLong
Seattle WA


You might post this question to the WA state 6412 thread here: www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=467203&goto=lastpost (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=467203&goto=lastpost)

:)

Slev- I did have my 34" Sanyo CRT direct-view ISF calibrated by an outfit called Aspect Television Service, out of Tacoma, I believe. It has been about 5 years, so I don't know if they're still out there, but you might try a call to (253) 468-7907, or email aspecttv@earthlink.net. They did a good, professional job in not very much time, for roughly $250, as I recall. FWIW.

Originally posted by drbenson
Slev- I did have my 34" Sanyo CRT direct-view ISF calibrated by an outfit called Aspect Television Service, out of Tacoma, I believe. It has been about 5 years, so I don't know if they're still out there, but you might try a call to (253) 468-7907, or email aspecttv@earthlink.net. They did a good, professional job in not very much time, for roughly $250, as I recall. FWIW.

big difference? worth it?

Originally posted by drbenson
Slev- I did have my 34" Sanyo CRT direct-view ISF calibrated by an outfit called Aspect Television Service, out of Tacoma, I believe. It has been about 5 years, so I don't know if they're still out there, but you might try a call to (253) 468-7907, or email aspecttv@earthlink.net. They did a good, professional job in not very much time, for roughly $250, as I recall. FWIW.

big difference? worth it?

I felt it was well worth it. My enjoyment of HD material was much enhanced. Of course, I'm pretty damn picky.

You can do a lot with the Avia kit and the test patterns InHD broadcasts, but you need to be working from a proper color temperature and balance between colors. That's often between hard and impossible to achieve without professional (expensive) measuring equipment. Most sets arrive with a too bright, too blue, oversharpened setting so they'll 'pop' in the store display, and may have 30% or more difference in basic intensity among the colors. Mine arrived down roughly 20% in red compared to the others. The calibration corrected that, and got my color temp spot-on.

If you really like the picture you see in the store, and don't care about technically "proper" black levels for movies or accurate flesh tones, don't bother. Also read the reviews on your particular set- some have a best setting that at least gets your color temperature pretty correct without calibration.

Bottom line is that if you like what you're seeing after you play around with Avia and/or InHD Tune Up, spend the money on some DVDs or a premium movie channel subscription, and don't stress.

Thanks for the feedback. One big area I want fixed is I have pretty bad overscan on my Sony. It's enough to cut off the right hand side and the bottom of the FOX symbol when it does HD broadcasts... and I know there's quite a bit of space to the right of the fox logo and a little bit behind it (saw on someone else's set). So I suppose overscan would be my biggest thing I want fixed and then colors second. My TV looks good, but I'd love to have it looking great :)

Thanks for the reference. I'll check them out and see if they're still in business. Anyone else done this and have a reference?

I just received a notice from Comcast that they're "enhancing" my service May 3rd by deleting the following channels:

137 TRIO
559 HBO Comedy
560 HBO Zone
566 ActionMAX
567 ThrillerMAX
583 Showtime Next
584 Showtime Family
585 Showtime Women
593 TMC Xtra West

I probably never would've noticed they were gone, but I do wonder what that bandwidth will be used for. I don't see that they need it for their pet project -- OnDemand. More HD? We can only hope.

(Good excuse for me to "enhance" my bill by deleting some things myself.)

I noticed those "color bar glitches" in CSI: Miami on Monday (I am watching the recording now). "Smallville" was fine again.

Originally posted by jeff28
remember, they are getting ready to do digital simulcasting of all analog channels and they need all the bandwidth they can to try to keep the picture clean and watchable... those channels were removed because there is a lot of duplication there with content that can be viewed more conveniently on-demand anyway.

I had a tech out a week or 2 ago, and he said the same thing...the dropped channels were to make room for the digital simulcast (he didn't have an eta on that, but said sometime in the next couple of months). They also moved the "channel" for my cablemodem (frequency move) to a different range for "housekeeping" issues -> to standardize the frequency used a bit for some of the regions. This was why I had the tech out...cablemodem went out and didn't come back...fixed now tho.

this was in the Shoreline area.

Cheers,

Rich

wareagle: how were you notified of the "enhancement"? By email or a letter with your bill? I was just curious because I never noticed any such letter.

Originally posted by Nausicaa
I noticed those "color bar glitches" in CSI: Miami on Monday (I am watching the recording now). "Smallville" was fine again.

I hadn't been reading this thread for a week or two and didn't see the earlier posts on the problem. I thought my computer was having issues. I've relieved that it's not my setup.

Originally posted by djmattyb
wareagle: how were you notified of the "enhancement"? By email or a letter with your bill? I was just curious because I never noticed any such letter.

It was a separate letter. Since I'm subscribed (temporarily) to all the departing channels (the movies and TRIO), it may be that the letter was specifically targeted to affected customers, and that nobody else got one. It's also possible there are other channels I don't have which are being cut.

gonna miss TRIO though

Originally posted by thesoze
gonna miss TRIO though

Yes. I don't understand why that one had to go, since there's no duplication, and I haven't found any OnDemand TRIO material. May be a contractural matter ($$).

TNT-HD!.........I'm praying it's on in time for the playoffs.

i heard in some parts of the country TNT HD just started in some of COmcast's areas

I like TRIO, especially for the old shows and cancelled shows on "Brilliant But Cancelled" along with "PILOT season". Unless things have changed last I heard TRIO is a dead network. Well based on what NBC/Universal has said in the past.

Originally posted by biz_qwik
TNT-HD!.........I'm praying it's on in time for the playoffs.
Anyone know what channel # we should be watching? :D

According to tvguide.com FSN is showing the sonics game tomorrow..does this mean it will be blacked out from ESPN/ESPN HD here..that would be horrible if that's the case, and I don't see how FSN could take presidence over a channel paying for the rights to broadcast the playoffs...

Does anybody know if for sure the game will be on ESPN HD?

Originally posted by Binaural
According to tvguide.com FSN is showing the sonics game tomorrow..does this mean it will be blacked out from ESPN/ESPN HD here..that would be horrible if that's the case, and I don't see how FSN could take presidence over a channel paying for the rights to broadcast the playoffs...

Does anybody know if for sure the game will be on ESPN HD?

What makes you the FSN isn't paying for the rights as well? The game will be broadcast on both outlets, I don't know if ESPN has chosen to make this an HD game, we'll all find out together tonight.

For the record, ABC is the only network that has exclusive rights to games in the first round. In the second round, ABC and TNT have exclusivity. So for the first two rounds, those who like to hear the home town broadcast will get to enjoy it, unless ABC or TNT (second round) is broadcasting the game.

Yeah, I'm pretty sure I've seen Sonics games simultaneously on ESPN and FSN this season, no blackouts.

I have Comcast coming out in a week to install the Motorola DCT6200.
I have a Pio. Pd-5050HD plasma and would like to know if the DVI out port for this STB is enabled so I can hook up to my Pio HDMI port. Have talked to 3 different CSR's at Comcast with 3 different answers. Anyone using the 6200 for this connection in the Seattle Area.?

6200 & DVI:

I have a friend in Kent who uses the 6200 DVI port to connect via HDMI. He also uses the firewire port to capture video to his Mac.

Originally posted by Brbillson
I have Comcast coming out in a week to install the Motorola DCT6200.
I have a Pio. Pd-5050HD plasma and would like to know if the DVI out port for this STB is enabled so I can hook up to my Pio HDMI port. Have talked to 3 different CSR's at Comcast with 3 different answers. Anyone using the 6200 for this connection in the Seattle Area.? Sure - just read back a few hundred pages in this thread :)

All 6200s in the Seattle area should have DVI enabled. I don't know if that means you can hook it to HDMI or not (do you need a DVI-HDMI adapter or something?) But it works fine connected to my Panasonic plasma DVI port. One major caveat - Comcast has HDCP copy-protection enabled on their DVI port, so your display MUST support HDCP or you're out of luck (mostly an issue w/ computer monitors, not so much with HDTVs).

Also see what kind of input your plasma supports. If it is only HDMI then you will need to either purchase a DVI-HDMI cable; or buy a HDMI adaptor to convert one end of the DVI to HDMI

HDMI by definition supports HDCP, so you should be fine with just an adapter or a HDMI/DVI cable.

-eric

I was wondering if anyone knew of the update of the Mircosoft Software for the regular 2000 Series (Black Boxes) would be coming?

Originally posted by jimre
Sure - just read back a few hundred pages in this thread :)

All 6200s in the Seattle area should have DVI enabled. I don't know if that means you can hook it to HDMI or not (do you need a DVI-HDMI adapter or something?) But it works fine connected to my Panasonic plasma DVI port. One major caveat - Comcast has HDCP copy-protection enabled on their DVI port, so your display MUST support HDCP or you're out of luck (mostly an issue w/ computer monitors, not so much with HDTVs).

I can't keep track of Moto model numbers, but when I had my box installed, the first one the guy brought in didn't have a DVI port at all. He had to go back out to the truck and get a different, seemingly identical one. That one doesn't have firewire, but apparently I could get yet another, seemingly identical one that has both DVI and firewire.

BTW, HDCP is an issue on older sets. I believe I purchased my set in January, 2003 (it might have been 2004, but I think it was 2003). Anyway, at that time there were a number of sets that had DVI, but not HDCP.

Originally posted by Karyk
I can't keep track of Moto model numbers, but when I had my box installed, the first one the guy brought in didn't have a DVI port at all. He had to go back out to the truck and get a different, seemingly identical one. That one doesn't have firewire, but apparently I could get yet another, seemingly identical one that has both DVI and firewire. The 5100 was the original HD Moto box that Comcast deployed here. Originally, they had neither DVI or firewire. The later 5100's had DVI, but firewire was still hit or miss, and Comcast installers had no way to tell you which you were getting.

The 6200's came later and as far as I know, ALL had both DVI and firewire installed & enabled. I originally had three 5100's, which I ended up swapping for two 6200's and a 6412.

All of the Moto HD boxes look pretty much identical from the outside.

Originally posted by wareagle
6200 & DVI:

I have a friend in Kent who uses the 6200 DVI port to connect via HDMI. He also uses the firewire port to capture video to his Mac.

I am the friend and Comcast supplies only the component cables. I bought the male dvi/hdmi cable in Auburn from http://www.pacificcable.com/HDMI_Cables.html for $30. There is no apparent difference in picture between the two types of connection as I currently have both connected. sam

Thanks for the info, Sam. He brings up a point that I have been trying to research--so far with mixed results. Will I be able to see the difference If I go to the trouble of removing my Comcast issued component and switching to dvi/hdmi cable? I theory yes since one step (un compressing the compressed component signal) has been eliminated. But in practice will I be able to notice the difference?

NOTE: I am only asking about the cable signal hear- I have been told that DVI does make a difference with DVD's- but I (1) rarely watch DVDs; and (2) my Panasonic palsma has only one HDMI input jack, which I would use for the cable box.

Originally posted by burger23
...Will I be able to see the difference If I go to the trouble of removing my Comcast issued component and switching to dvi/hdmi cable? I theory yes since one step (un compressing the compressed component signal) has been eliminated. But in practice will I be able to notice the difference? I doubt you'd notice much difference, assuming all the inputs on your set are properly calibrated. When I switched from component (which is analog, by the way, not "compressed") to DVI on my Panasonic plasma - the DVI initially looked much WORSE (not better). Colors were washed out, blacks were more grey than black, etc. But after adjusting the settings for the DVI input, the difference between the two was negligible. HD is simply stunning on either input.

Thanks for the info, jimre. Now let's really go off-topic. Monster Cables???? Monster cables feature "Gas-injected dielectric for maximum signal strength and ultra-low loss, even over long runs.
High-density, triple-layer shielding for maximum rejection of RFI and EMI."

Are they really 3 times (based on price) better than Pacific Cable's (mentioned in link above)?

I doubt it. I use Monster cable because I used to work for an A/V retailer and paid about 25% of retail for them. They do work well, but I doubt they deliver three times the visible or aural quality.

I don't care if it can carry signals I can't hear or see if the ones it can carry are rendered with the same fidelity as a cheaper cable. *grin*

So, i've read around the forum TNT-HD is available in some new markets...no news on us yet though, right?

I tried randomly flipping to digital stations yesterday to see if it had shown up, but didn't see anything...anybody with any info? :(

I haven't seen any sign of TNT-HD either. I read that Tuesday a few large mid-west cities are getting it so hopefully that means were soon? It was brutal watching TNT-LD (low def) yesterday. Just hit the switch people! Channel 667!!

I don't know if it was said yet (couldn't find it with a search of the past month or so), but a lot of analog channels (mostly locals) seems to be rebroadcasted in the QAM channels 117.1-119.9 right now. I wouldn't be surprised the Moto boxes may get an upgrade soon to let you all record fully digital. Of course, why record SD when you have the HD channel. :) (except for UPN)

-eric

re DVI:

I found that the picture wasn't any better than component. In addition the box didn't seem to output a completely clean signal (weird noise sometimes at the top of the screen etc). Overall the component works better for me as all my sources are now component and I can just switch them in my amp. It's goodness.

Originally posted by biz_qwik
I haven't seen any sign of TNT-HD either. I read that Tuesday a few large mid-west cities are getting it so hopefully that means were soon? It was brutal watching TNT-LD (low def) yesterday. Just hit the switch people! Channel 667!!

I fear there may be some connection between when TNT-HD shows up and the May 3rd date Comcast sent me relative to some channels disappearing. Poor timing, I'd say.

My DCT-2000 gets messages (it is not yet on the MS software), but my 6412 has never (to my knowledge) gotten a message.

Originally posted by biz_qwik
I haven't seen any sign of TNT-HD either. I read that Tuesday a few large mid-west cities are getting it so hopefully that means were soon? It was brutal watching TNT-LD (low def) yesterday. Just hit the switch people! Channel 667!!

Is that the confirmed home of TNT HD? How'd you find that out!? :D

This is going to suck not being able to watch playoff sonics basketball in HD today :(

You'd think comcast would have made cities where playoff basketball is going on a priority for turning on TNT-HD..but I guess that would make too much sense..this is comcast we're talking about...

Originally posted by consumertalks
Is that the confirmed home of TNT HD? How'd you find that out!? :D

I've been looking for it to show up on Channel 666.

So looks like Wednesday was an "issues" day for HD at the stations.

"Lost" was in 4:3 on KOMO as was "Smallville" on WB. Least CBS broadcast "CSI: New York" ok. :)

That one episode (special) of Lost was originated in 4x3 by ABC.

Ah. Well it was a clip show so no harm done. :)

May 3rd update?.......waht is it going to include?

Originally posted by biz_qwik
May 3rd update?.......waht is it going to include?

No firm news here. I just spoke to a CSR about another subject and asked about TNT-HD, and he said he wasn't sure, but that the deletions are to make room for more HD channels. I then asked about digital simulcasting and he hadn't heard anything about when they'll do that. So I suppose we can hang by our thumbs and see if the May 3rd deletions really will be accompanied by an "enhancement".

not holding my breath......

Looks like as of today, my 6412 is now starting to receive messages.

As I stated on the other Forum (Washington State - Comcast 6412 w/ MSFT Software):
Just noticed the red light ON the Mot 6412. I was puzzled since I had nothing scheduled to RECORD. Then I noticed the red light that was ON was not the RECORD light-rather it was in another location- right above the ON/OFF light. I hope there is a way to turn this "feature" OFF- otherwise, it will soon become very annoying to have to delete all this SPAM.

More messages- very, very annoying. How do I turn this OFF?:mad: :mad:

I don't think you can turn the message indicator off, and it is annoying. At one time they seemed to have a lot more messages than they've had over the past few months.

Black electrical tape covers both the clock and the red message light. You have to be careful to not cover the remote receiver. sam

I just put mine behind closed doors.....(with ir distro system). I don't worry about either the message or the record light :p

Rich

Originally posted by Weil
Black electrical tape covers both the clock and the red message light. You have to be careful to not cover the remote receiver. sam
You do know you can turn the clock off, right? ;)

FYI- I called this morning because my DVR menu wasn't loading. The red light issue is very well known and they are working on it.

Originally posted by consumertalks
The red light issue is very well known and they are working on it.

What is "the red light issue"?

Microsoft (Shannonv) said months ago that there was a problem between their software's implementation of the message interface and the way the Motorola box works, which is why the 6412 had never shown any messages up until now.

On another subject, some channels (Trio & supposedly redundant movie channels) have been deleted today as advertised by Comcast. We can now await the accompanying "enhancements".

I am concerned about unwanted SPAM (adult movies...give me a break). COMCAST is a service that I am forced to pay for (no cable competition).

Having to put-up with advertising in unpaid endeavors (like most any corporate web page) is a known nuisance-but after all, it is free. I resist having to pay for unwanted advertising.

Originally posted by wareagle
What is "the red light issue"?
Did you see the post I quoted? It's the red message light. ;)

Originally posted by consumertalks
Did you see the post I quoted? It's the red message light. ;)

You stated that they were working on it. Do they intend to give you the ability to disable the light? Disable the messaging system? (I doubt that, since they seem to have put effort into recovering it.)

Originally posted by wareagle
You stated that they were working on it. Do they intend to give you the ability to disable the light? Disable the messaging system? (I doubt that, since they seem to have put effort into recovering it.)
I have no idea. I simply said they told me they were aware of it and working on it, I didn't ask anything else.

1800COMCAST :D

Originally posted by consumertalks
You do know you can turn the clock off, right? ;)


Then I am left with the channel number. I want NO lights at all. sam:)

Originally posted by Weil
Then I am left with the channel number. I want NO lights at all. sam:)
Oh, you didn't say that! :D Lights on, lights off, who cares? Gimme my TNT HD!! :p

Originally posted by burger23
I am concerned about unwanted SPAM (adult movies...give me a break). COMCAST is a service that I am forced to pay for (no cable competition).

Having to put-up with advertising in unpaid endeavors (like most any corporate web page) is a known nuisance-but after all, it is free. I resist having to pay for unwanted advertising. What's the problem? Just ignore them. They're not forcing you to go into the Messages menu & read these. You're not missing out on anything by not reading them (except of course the upcoming 99 cent porn).

Originally posted by Weil
Then I am left with the channel number. I want NO lights at all. sam:) A wooden cabinet with closed doors works quite nicely.

What's the problem? Just ignore them. They're not forcing you to go into the Messages menu & read these.
Well, they are "forcing me" to deal with the unwanted red message waiting light.

You don't seriously condone this type of unsolicited SPAM (SPAM that I am in effect paying for) do you?

Originally posted by burger23
...You don't seriously condone this type of unsolicited SPAM (SPAM that I am in effect paying for) do you? Doesn't matter whether I condone it or not. I'm sure somewhere deep in the Comcast User Agreement, you and I both gave our assent to receive this "spam", so it's not exactly "unsolicited".

So you now have a pretty new red light - big deal. Learn to live with it: if it bothers you this much, put tape over it, or hide your gear in a cabinet (like I've done). The message light & spam mail is exactly how all Comcast boxes used to work before we got MSFT software on them. We've just been fortunate for the last 6 months that this feature was completely broken in MSTV. Now it's fixed, and the Comcast boxes are once again back to displaying spam messages - just like they've done for many years.

Its actually kinda funny....for the past few months, ppl have been complaining that it doens't work (at least on the other thread),now that it works, ppl are complaining that it DOES work...

can't win.

It <WOULD> be nice if you could toggle it on or off...but.....

Rich

Screw the Red light.......Why doesn't the record light drive you guys crazy? I do agree that the pay-per-view wrestling messages suck but I delete in 2.2 seconds.

I want TNT-HD in the next 5 hours....PLEASE!!!!!!!! I thought for sure we'd get it with this update.....guess not.

So, what's wrong with the record light? I like being able to look at the box to make sure a recording has started.

It's NOT the RECORD light-- in fact, the RECORD light is quite useful to me.

It is the MESSAGE LIGHT, otherwise known as the SPAM light. I am paying for a service, not for the privilege to receive unwanted SPAM.

Well, yeah, I don't seem to appreciate the message light. And, it's certainly not convenient to read messages. Art

My Message Light extiguishes after I delete the message(s). ??

Yup, that's a good thing.

How else could it possibly work?

Originally posted by wareagle
How else could it possibly work?
It could stay on FOREVER so people would be able to complain about the SPAM. You don't seriously condone it WORKING, do you?

:D

re: the spam factor from comcast....

If you have internet access thru them, you should be used to the spam....I get nearly daily spams from comcast re: video mail, new services, etc etc etc...and not on my primary account only, OH NO, I get the same spam on ALL of my alias email accts.

A little red light doesn't bother me....deleting a dozen spam emails a week does.

Rich

If you have internet access thru them, you should be used to the spam....I get nearly daily spams from comcast re: video mail, new services, etc etc etc...and not on my primary account only, OH NO, I get the same spam on ALL of my alias email accts. This is why have SPAM filters on my email

THE SOLUTION: Put a simple OPTION in Setup: Turn MESSAGE BOX [aka SPAM BOX] OFF :p

We must all be so bored to be spending so much energy on the "Message Light" issue. I think we should all focus on getting Comcast to make a deal with whomever is responsible for the Mariners on HD and TNT-HD. I'm sure you all know that Direct TV is showing 30+ Mariners games on HD this season and we are getting ZERO.

Art

My two cents

Couldn't agree more Art.....hence my sarcasm. Missing TNT-HD during the NBA Playoffs, with a contract in tact, is totally inexcusable....to me at least.

I've tried calling and gave up when the guy started arguing with me saying that I was getting bad information....and if there was a contract we would already have it...? What more can I do but wait?

Originally posted by consumertalks
It could stay on FOREVER so people would be able to complain about the SPAM. You don't seriously condone it WORKING, do you?

:D

I have a better idea -- it could flash when you have a new message, and then just stay on after you deleted the message. Then flash again when you get a new one. Or perhaps have a sequence of flashes indicating how many messages you have.

I have a suggestion that has a chance of working! I suggest that we complain that our underage children have seen the message and that we want Comcast to remove all "adult" ppv channels from the system unless they receive an "opt-in" signature. Write both your member of Congress and your newspaper (South County Journal Editorial Page prints lots of stupid letters) and complain. They will react to the "red" light district complaints. sam

Originally posted by biz_qwik
Couldn't agree more Art.....hence my sarcasm. Missing TNT-HD during the NBA Playoffs, with a contract in tact, is totally inexcusable....to me at least.

I've tried calling and gave up when the guy started arguing with me saying that I was getting bad information....and if there was a contract we would already have it...? What more can I do but wait?

biz_qwik, I started thinking about your question (what more can I do...) and started poking around online. I came across this web site:
(can't post it as I haven't made any posts before and there's a rule against new people posting web sites - but he's on the membership list for the broadband communications association of washington home page) It lists an email address for Steve Kipp, who is the guy always cited in articles when journalists want info about something from Comcast. I sent him an email asking if he could tell us anything but it couldn't hurt for other people to email him too, if you're interested in this... they might as well know... his address was steve_kipp@cable.comcast.com

From the Comcast web site FAQ:Whom do I contact about objectionable programming?

Because Comcast does not have any direct control of the specific programs carried by the various programmers, we suggest that you contact the network or the programming service directly. You also can contact Comcast at 1-866-781-1888 to share any concerns about programming you may find objectionable. Full set of Parental Control FAQs for on Comcast's web site are here (http://www.comcast.com/Support/Corp1/FAQ/Faq2_285_0.html).

This whole thing is a big yawn. If you really don't like Comcast content, then stop paying them money & don't use their service. At least read the instructions for how to lock out adult channels.

But I do have to admit, Comcast was pretty stupid to fix their message system, and then make the very first message they post an offer for discount porn.

Amen!

Originally posted by artseattle
We must all be so bored to be spending so much energy on the "Message Light" issue. I think we should all focus on getting Comcast to make a deal with whomever is responsible for the Mariners on HD and TNT-HD. I'm sure you all know that Direct TV is showing 30+ Mariners games on HD this season and we are getting ZERO.

Art

My two cents

Originally posted by artseattle
We must all be so bored to be spending so much energy on the "Message Light" issue. I think we should all focus on getting Comcast to make a deal with whomever is responsible for the Mariners on HD and TNT-HD. I'm sure you all know that Direct TV is showing 30+ Mariners games on HD this season and we are getting ZERO.

Art

My two cents

You said it perfectly!

Its too bad we don't have TNT-HD yet, but honestly, I'd rather watch FSN or KONG, just to listen to Kevin Calabro. If some stroke of luck falls upon us, and TNT-HD shows up for the next series, I might have to do the old 'tv volume DOWN, radio volume UP' trick


:D

Originally posted by boykster
I just put mine behind closed doors.....(with ir distro system). I don't worry about either the message or the record light :p

Rich

Just be careful what else you put in there with it. Those things put off a ton of heat!

Originally posted by Karyk
Just be careful what else you put in there with it. Those things put off a ton of heat!

Oh believe me, I KNOW!!! I have my HD DVR box in a rack in my theater, and have an exhaust fan mounted to keep the rack cool. Easily the biggest heat producer is the DVR.....

Rich

I like the idea of having the light flash morse code. That way you don't really have to open the message but simply read it by looking at the light.

God, what has this threat come to...

ICE......You mean you don't tune in for Ehlo? He's the s&*t!! ha ha.
Calabaro.....best announcer in the "L".

I only need TNT-HD since I'm originally from Detroit and that's my other team. FSN or Kong ONLY for Sonics games......

Originally posted by LynnA
biz_qwik, I started thinking about your question (what more can I do...) and started poking around online. I came across this web site:
(can't post it as I haven't made any posts before and there's a rule against new people posting web sites - but he's on the membership list for the broadband communications association of washington home page) It lists an email address for Steve Kipp, who is the guy always cited in articles when journalists want info about something from Comcast. I sent him an email asking if he could tell us anything but it couldn't hurt for other people to email him too, if you're interested in this... they might as well know... his address was steve_kipp@cable.comcast.com

I got a response today...
Not great news...
It would probably help if more people wrote in.
They don't know we're out here unless we speak up.
=================================================
Hi, Lynn

I'm sorry you have had difficulty getting an answer from our customer
service representatives on when or if we will be carrying TNT-HD. We are
currently considering carrying TNT-HD along with a handful of other channels
in high definition in the near future. However, we have no immediate plans
to launch TNT-HD, and are not prepared to give a time line on when we would
launch the channel here in Seattle.

I wish I had better news for you. Feel free to check in with me if you need
more information about our high definition choices or if you have questions
about any of our services.

Sincerely,

Steve Kipp
VP of Communications
Comcast Washington

I'd be interested in mailing a letter. I think some actual physical envelopes might look better some emails. They can still throw them away, but IMO the act of opening it and reading it is much more meaningful than skimming an email and trashing it. Got an address? :)

This probably shouldn't surprise anyone who's put up with Comcast or Steve Kipp's administration of our previous cable provider. I wonder what "enhancements" he has planned that will justify our losing Trio and the movie channels. Obviously TNT-HD isn't as high on his priority list as it is on ours. Can QVC-HD and HSN-HD be looming on the horizon?

I wrote Mr. Kipp a ver long letter explaining my concerns. My point is WHY are they deleting channels we could be enjoying without adding anything? Why aren't they concerned in showing he SONICS in HD when they are making they're best run in years.

My bill seems to grow a few dollor every 6 monthes and nothing is changing. I still don't even record 107 after missing so many programs due to audio sync issues and breakups.

TOTAL BS!

I hate COMCAST. Their decisions NEVER make sense to the consumer?

That stinks. Not only do we miss the playoffs, but they also have been promoing that miniseries coming in June and a couple other shows that looked like they would be in HD.

I was told by a CSR that the recently removed HBO channels would appear on the HBO on-demand menu as soon as they were removed from the channel lineup. WRONG! What used to be "11 channels of HBO" is now 5.

Originally posted by rverginia
I was told by a CSR that the recently removed HBO channels would appear on the HBO on-demand menu as soon as they were removed from the channel lineup. WRONG! What used to be "11 channels of HBO" is now 5.

I'm not sure what the CSR meant, or what you expected, since the OnDemand shows are only listed by title, and not by channel(s) they came from. It would seem like you'd have to compare the shows listed on HBO OnDemand with the combined listings of all (11?) of the original HBO channels in order to determine if all the programs are still available. Too much work for my taste, especially since I can't do anything about it, and only care about the HD movies, anyway.

I couldn't find the current channel mappings for Comcast locals. I'm particularly interested in King, but the others would be appreciated too. Anyone know them?

Originally posted by Karyk
I couldn't find the current channel mappings for Comcast locals. I'm particularly interested in King, but the others would be appreciated too. Anyone know them?
Click the first link (http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=comcast+seattle+line+up) :D

No, I mean the listing for QAM tuners. E.g. 104 (Komo) might be 86-1 or something.

QAM mappings are in this thread at http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&postid=5178259&highlight=QAM#post5178259

Thanks. I guess I didn't search back enough pages.

Anyone know why ESPN HD doesn't have the M's vs. NY game? It's on ESPN SD (ch. 30) with FSN logo in the top right, is that why?

The show info does show the game on ESPN HD, I was looking forward to seeing the M's take on Randy Johnson in HD!!

:(

Originally posted by consumertalks
Anyone know why ESPN HD doesn't have the M's vs. NY game? It's on ESPN SD (ch. 30) with FSN logo in the top right, is that why?

The show info does show the game on ESPN HD, I was looking forward to seeing the M's take on Randy Johnson in HD!!

:( It's all part of DirecTV's evil death star plan. When they signed the exclusive contract to show Mariners games in HD this season - they REALLY meant exclusive. Even when another network has rights to air a game in HD (like ESPN-HD) - that game is automatically blacked out whenever that show is transmitted over Comcast. I know ESPN-HD just loves to air 3 hours of silent black screen.

Plausible? maybe.

I think it was Napoleon who said "...never attribute to malice, that which can explained my mere incompetence". My bet is that someone screwed up somewhere. Or else their oh-so-fragile, one-of-a-kind, first-generation, protoype HD encoder is on the fritz again, waiting for spare parts to be flown in from Germany.

Never mind - it really *IS* malice in this case. If you call Comcast support, right on the main phone menu, you'll get the following prompt:
"Press 7 if you are calling about the Seattle Mariners game on ESPN tonight".

<press 7> Answer: If you are in the Seattle area, due to contractual agreements, the Mariners/Yankees game tonight will be shown on FSN, channel 30....Chalk one up for the Death Star..... it appears as Comcast customers, we are now totally screwed on EVER seeing another inning of Mariners in HD again!

When I checked the ESPN SD game on 31 they were showing Houston-Florida, so perhaps the evil influence extends beyond HD.

Game was on 30..not 31.

Well maybe the M’s sponsors should know that I turned on ESPNHD and saw another game, so I turned off the TV. If I can’t watch it in HD, forget it.

Originally posted by burger23
Game was on 30..not 31.

I know that. FSN is 30 -- but 31 is the ESPN SD version of ESPN-HD (173), and carries the same programming as 173, but in SD. So one would expect it to be carrying the Mariners, too. The fact that it wasn't would lead one to believe that it was changed just for us, along with the blacking out of ESPN-HD. Of course, it's possible that the Mariners weren't on ESPN at all, and the blackout was of a digital version of Houston-Florida. Hard to tell from here.

The phone menu when you called the Comcast help line was pretty specific: the Mariners game was blacked out on ESPN/ESPNHD for Comcast customers in the Seattle area, due to "contractual agreements".

Guys-

There is no conspiracy. Rules of broadcasting games are very confusing, and very different from sport to sport. for Baseball (and I emphasize baseball only) a local market team has the right to sell it's own TV rights, and blackout the national rights holder. What does that mean? That means that when the Mariners are playing on National TV (ESPN), the Mariners can tell ESPN that they can't air the game in Seattle. Thus, the "B" national game, which was indeed the Marlins. That game aired in Seattle and likely New York.

I want to emphasize that this is not any special deal involving the Mariners, DirecTV, or FSN. This is the standard operating procedure for ALL major league teams. The goal is to protect the local rights holder, who is probably the number 1 source of income for the team in question.

As I said, it can certainly be confusing. for the NBA, both broadcasts can often air simultaneously. During the regular season, only thursday night TNT games are "protected", meaning the local broadcaster CANNOT televise a game side by side with the network. In the first round, only ABC gets exclusivity, in the second round, TNT and ABC get exclusivity. That's why the Sonics game Sunday night wasn't on FSN, and why you will often see the Sonics on both FSN and ESPN. (BTW, even with the lower quality picture, FSN beats ESPN head-to-head by about 3-1 in the ratings).

The big thing to remember is that at the NFL and NBA, the primary TV contracts are negotiated at the league level, meaning national broadcasters have a lot more sway over TV contracts. In baseball, the primary TV is at the local level... a team must have a good TV contract in order to make payroll. This is one reason the the Expos were such a disaster... they had NO TV deal. It also is one of the major reasons that baseball teams' finances are so out of whack with each other compared to other leagues.

I can tell you for certain that FSN and the Mariners are negotiating with Comcast to carry the games in HD. I'm not particularly confident that a deal will be reached. But my gut feeling is that if you are a fan of the Mariners, you'll probably watch the games any way you can... if you are an HD fan who wants to see the Mariners, you're probably going to be disappointed unless you go with DirecTV.

Hope that helps.

Are any of the analog channels currently being digitally simulcast by Comcast in Seattle?

Kind of ironic, since I switched from DirecTV to Comcast to watch the M’s in HD.

Originally posted by brownnet
But my gut feeling is that if you are a fan of the Mariners, you'll probably watch the games any way you can... if you are an HD fan who wants to see the Mariners, you're probably going to be disappointed unless you go with DirecTV.

Hope that helps.

Is anyone else having issues with the DVR fast forward/rewind locking up? I try to skip a commercial break and when I press play to resume the show, it'll show "PLA" on the box and the time will freeze on screen, but it'll keep fast forwarding. I called 1800COMCAST and they had me unplug the box for 30 seconds, that didn't help (plus I have to wait for the DVR & menus to reload).

This is my third or fourth HD DVR (the first was almost dead after a few hours), and I don't want to swap it for another. I'd lose my 80% full drive of HBO HD movies and other series I record, but I've done that with every DVR so far. My patience is gone, if Comcast can't fix the problem I'll reconsider the $300 deposit my building has for DirectTV dishes (if I can't tap into a neighbor's, that is). Comcast has my home phone, cable, and internet.. and I'll move it all to Qwest if they can't figure this out.

Anyone else experiencing problems like this!? :mad:

It's a known problem with that box. See http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?threadid=467203&goto=newpost.

Originally posted by Tom_Oliver
It's a known problem with that box. See http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?threadid=467203&goto=newpost.
Forgive me for not knowing which of the 51 pages (:D) that's on, can you direct me to a post or page where it's discussed? Thanks!

Probably in the FAQ, but I'm not sure where that is. You can search the thread for freeze. Lots of people have hit that problem.

Originally posted by Tom_Oliver
Probably in the FAQ, but I'm not sure where that is. You can search the thread for freeze. Lots of people have hit that problem.
I found a few, I'll read from there. Thanks! :)

Originally posted by wareagle
Are any of the analog channels currently being digitally simulcast by Comcast in Seattle?

I think they are planning on it, but to date the solution is to watch the HDTV local if you can tune it in.

Originally posted by Karyk
I think they are planning on it, but to date the solution is to watch the HDTV local if you can tune it in.

I simply wanted to know if any of the analogs were already being simulcast so I could get an idea of how good the digital conversion will be, since it's difficult to check each channel -- I don't need a solution.

The analogs will be digitally simulcast, but that has not yet happened and I have not seen any PRs from Comcast saying when they will be in the Seattle metro area.

So I was off work yesterday, Wednesday and the day ESPN HD M's game was on in Seattle. Watched most of it. Bad game, good HD!!

Don't you just want to yell at the Mariner's announcers every time that talk about Comcast being the "Leader in HDTV"? To rub it in, Direct TV ran an ad in the Seattle Times today touting their HD broadcast of the Boston games this weekend. C'mon Comcast, just get it done.



Just venting!

I have a Toshiba DLP with QAM tuner and can get the following HDTV :

KOMO> 4-1
PBS or KBYU> 9-5
FOX> 13-1
UPN> 22-1

For some reason KING and KIRO don't have a strong enough signal to come through at 5-1 and 7-1.
I get these with the limited cable option.

The Cablecard is not compatible with my TV yet.

Originally posted by Limitedcable
I have a Toshiba DLP with QAM tuner and can get the following HDTV :

KOMO> 4-1
PBS or KBYU> 9-5
FOX> 13-1
UPN> 22-1

For some reason KING and KIRO don't have a strong enough signal to come through at 5-1 and 7-1.
I get these with the limited cable option.

The Cablecard is not compatible with my TV yet.

I've got the same limited cable (w/ a Sharp Aquos LCD w/ QAM tuner) and get the following mappings:

13.1 KCPQ
22.1 KTWB
82.1 KCTS
82.2 KCTS-HD
82.3 KCTS-Learns
82.4 KCTS-DT
82.5 KOMO
83.1 KING
83.2 KONG
83.3 KING Weather
84.2 KIRO

Originally posted by TacJag
Just got this today via email from Comcast:

Mariners HDTV Schedule on Comcast Cable:
June 11: Expos at Mariners; 7:05 PM
June 12: Expos at Mariners; 7:05 PM
June 13: Braves at Mariners; 7:05 PM
June 28: Padres at Mariners; 7:05 PM
June 29: Padres at Mariners; 1:05 PM
July 9: Orioles at Mariners; 7:05 PM
July 10: Orioles at Mariners; 7:05 PM
July 11: Devil Rays at Mariners; 7:05 PM
July 13: Devil Rays at Mariners; 1:05 PM
July 24: Athletics at Mariners; 7:05 PM
July 27: Rangers at Mariners; 1:05 PM
Aug. 2: White Sox at Mariners; 7:05 PM
Aug. 3: White Sox at Mariners; 1:05 PM
Aug. 15: Red Sox at Mariners; 7:05 PM
Aug. 17: Red Sox at Mariners; 1:05 PM
Aug. 31: Orioles at Mariners; 1:05 PM
Sept.14: Angels at Mariners; 1:05 PM
Sept. 26: Athletics at Mariners; 7:05 PM
Sept. 28: Athletics at Mariners; 1:05 PM

Each game will be shown LIVE in HD on ch. # 100

So I take this is not happening because of the Direct TV deal?

That schedule was last year's...

Actually, I believe it was the 2003 schedule. It keeps showing up because of a Comcast email that just won't die.

Oh great....

Ya, I got this from page 240 or something. :( Man oh well... I've had HD for 2 years now and I just got an email from Comcast saying that HD is now avalible in my area.... OH brother! :rolleyes:

Well, now we have a clue -- we can ignore any schedules that contain the Montreal Expos!

Oh man...

I must be that retarded!!!!!! :D Sorry I didn't catch that..... I'm more of an HD fan then a baseball fan, that's for sure!!!

I'm happy just being able to watch the rare sonics playoff game in HD on espn.....(no TNT HD dangit!)

Great game last nite...even tho it was a bit of a comedy of errors on both teams....we stole that win last nite...but damn the pq was nice...

Rich

anyone have them and their HD product?

Saturday's recording of CSI in HD was stopped on my DVR after 3 minutes for some reason, anyone else have this happen? I'm confused! :confused:

Is anyone having occasional audio drops, sometimes short and sometimes 2-3 seconds long. on their 6412 when watching HD in the Seattle area besides me? It mainly happens when watching live and recorded shows like Lost, CSI and Desperate Housewives. It happens throughtout the shows. I've been through 3 boxes and three techs. Any suggestions? Thanks Chris

i have had that problem from time to time.....but not since I insalled a UPS (uninteruptable Power Supply) for my 6412 .

just get the samllest one you can find ......as your not needing a long battery backup , Just protection from power blips.

Thanks, I will try that!

Originally posted by Junior34
Is anyone having occasional audio drops, sometimes short and sometimes 2-3 seconds long. on their 6412 when watching HD in the Seattle area besides me? It mainly happens when watching live and recorded shows like Lost, CSI and Desperate Housewives. It happens throughtout the shows. I've been through 3 boxes and three techs. Any suggestions? Thanks Chris
It happened to me on 63 (MTV) for the last half hour of an hour long show. There was nothing I could do (ff/rw/pause, I tried it all). I had to delete the show and rerecord at a later date.

The more complicated the software is, the more room for error it seems. It's frustrating, but switching the box seems like something Comcast throws at the problem when they know it's not really it.

I posted about audio dropouts a week or so ago in the HDTV Recorders 6412 / Washington thread (and have private msg'ed with Chris a few times). The audio dropouts are 2-3 seconds long, quiet (no associated pops or hisses) and are NOT associated with any video jumps / hangs / etc. I do see the occasional "audio / video together" freeze (maybe 2-3 times per week), which I attribute to broadcast network hiccups, but the audio dropouts are much more frequent (and audio only).

Would it be worthwhile to post about this in the OTA thread? If nobody is seeing this OTA, or only a subset of people are seeing this on Comcast, maybe there's something wrong specific to certain Comcast areas, or certain 6412 boxes. There's always the possibility of something strange in the audio receiver boxes, but I can't imagine anything that would cause random 2-3 second dropouts in the middle of watching a show (I could understand trouble when switching between channels, or during a switch to commercial, where the stream is transitioning from 5.1 to 2 channel ...).

Other ideas or approaches to help isolate what is going on? I have the feeling calling Comcast support will result in the usual - "swap out the box" (which I don't want to do since I have some recorded shows I still want to watch, plus I have little confidence it will actually solve the problem).

Cliff

There have been certain brands/models of A/V receivers that seem to be more "fussy" about the digital audio coming in from various HD receivers and DVRs. I don't recall any specifics right now, but perhaps you can specify what A/V receiver your audio is plugged into and perhaps someone will recognize that brand/model as having had problems in the past with some HD receiver(s).

FWIW, I experienced many audio dropouts on recorded programs in April on KIRO-DT. (I am just getting around to watching some of these.) I also saw some video artifacts (at different times than the audio dropouts in most cases) that look like horizontal streaks. I am not having these audio and video problems on more current recordings or on live OTA viewing. I don't recall any similar problem with any other OTA HD channels.

In my case, I am using a DirecTV HD TiVo and receiving/recording local HD channels OTA.

are you using a Home Theater receiver or just the TV speakers?

First -- sorry about the note I posted from Comcast RE the Mariners in HD ... silly me ... I believed them!!

I'm still in a Comcast only area (Lakewood) but will soon have the choice of getting Click! Network from Tacoma Power. According to their channel lineup for HD ... FSN-HD is listed so I'm guessing that Click folks have the Mariners in HD!!

Can't wait ...

Ken

I am using a Sony receiver model STR-DE845 with optical cables.

I have the Sony STR-DE995 (the 7.1 version of the DE845), also optical hookup, and have not had any dropouts that I can say are from the receiver. It seems like all the dropouts are coming from the networks.

Listen through the TV speakers and see if it shows up there. If there are still dropouts, check your settings on the DVR STB. You may have the audio compression set to high.

I'm using a Denon AVR-3300 and I've noticed very short audio drops. Don't remember which channels or programs, except I do know I notice them on KOMO.

I get audio drops outs over TV audio using the RCA outputs on the 6412. Usually ABC (Lost) and CBS (the CSIs and NCIS). WB and FOX seem to be fine.

Ahh - so it looks like Chris (Junior34) and I are not the only ones seeing dropouts ... and it might be specific to certain channels or shows (Chris mentioned logging the dropouts - time and channel ... excellent idea, might show a pattern to help isolate what is going on).

My audio runs through an optical (Toslink) cable to a B&K Components Ref 20 audio processor. It's my only audio, and video goes to a front projector (component signal converted to RGB), so I can't "turn on TV speakers" to compare (although I could always drag down the upstairs TV and hook it up).

I didn't think about the heavy compression setting - it might be a factor, although I'm sure it's not the main problem - the dropouts are at random times, including in the middle of conversation (which is the most noticeable and annoying time), so if somehow the "audible level going too low" is part of the problem, there's definitely a way too long recovery time (2-3 seconds).

Cliff

I will try a different setting on the audio compression and see if that makes a difference.

Originally posted by artshotwell
I'm using a Denon AVR-3300 and I've noticed very short audio drops. Don't remember which channels or programs, except I do know I notice them on KOMO.

As you might guess, I listen to KOMO's audio very closely, and until a few days ago, I did not understand where the reports of the audio dropping out were coming from. When the six-channel audio limiter-compressor was installed, the audio problems that I experienced all but disappeared. No more ducking audio on a loud noise. Rattling the announcers microphone has very little effect, unlike previously when the sound all but disappeared only to return slowly as the receiver's compression circuit recovered.

But that changed last week when I noticed that the audio on my Samsung SIR-T160 cut out for a fraction of a second as often as every few seconds. I immediately went to my HiPix receiver and found that the sound was perfect. I called the studio and confirmed that everything there looked normal. I then went back to the Samsung and pulled the power plug so as to reboot the receiver. The audio was still cutting out.

I then tuned away from 4-1 to 5-1...normal sound. When I went back to 4-1 the audio was then completely normal.

I have not seen the problem since.

I would be very interested to see if changing the channel, then back solves the problem that you folks are seeing. Any feedback that you can provide will help to determine just what is going on.

Don

Could anyone please summarize the current situation with respect to the Mariners' Comcast HD broadcasts this year...? Last year around this time (well into the season) Comcast finally announced the M's games they'd broadcast in HD for the (rest of the) season and the channel on which they'd be broadcast. I'm pretty sure I saw a large full page ad in the Seattle Times last week once again announcing the (once again belated) start of HD Mariners broadcasts on Comcast - but the ad included no schedule of games nor any channel designation. The Mariners' website is devoid of any Comcast HD broadcast schedule or channel information - BUT - it does show for tonight's M's/Yankee game (now underway), "TV: FSN-HD". Great! But on which channel? I called Comcast and after the usual automated hell of their phone system, I finally figured out a way to speak to a human being. Simply put, however, he knew nothing... Is it the Mariners, Comcast or both who seem unable to grasp that the baseball season begins each year in April...? Comcast seems to understand timing when it comes to sending out bills & expecting timely payment... why can't they do the same when it comes to contracting for and providing programming? Would they be satisfied if we didn't get around to bothering to send in April payments until May, or June or at all? "Well, I'm still negotiating with my bank over the color of my checks"... Somehow I don't think Comcast would buy or accept that... well the same should go for their inability to conclude a deal with the M's on time each year... Sigh...

It's simple. There aren't any Mariners games on Comcast in HD this year. They're all on DirecTV.

Originally posted by Don Wilkinson
As you might guess, I listen to KOMO's audio very closely, and until a few days ago, I did not understand where the reports of the audio dropping out were coming from. When the six-channel audio limiter-compressor was installed, the audio problems that I experienced all but disappeared. No more ducking audio on a loud noise. Rattling the announcers microphone has very little effect, unlike previously when the sound all but disappeared only to return slowly as the receiver's compression circuit recovered.

But that changed last week when I noticed that the audio on my Samsung SIR-T160 cut out for a fraction of a second as often as every few seconds. I immediately went to my HiPix receiver and found that the sound was perfect. I called the studio and confirmed that everything there looked normal. I then went back to the Samsung and pulled the power plug so as to reboot the receiver. The audio was still cutting out.

I then tuned away from 4-1 to 5-1...normal sound. When I went back to 4-1 the audio was then completely normal.

I have not seen the problem since.

I would be very interested to see if changing the channel, then back solves the problem that you folks are seeing. Any feedback that you can provide will help to determine just what is going on.

Don

Don, pretty much all of my HDTV viewing is done with my HR10-250 DirecTivo, so I don't know if changing the channel would help. I do, however, still get audio glitches on some ABC primetime shows. But they're rarer than what we were experiencing a few months back. I don't have any issues with with any other Seattle stations, just KOMO-DT. And it's only on network fed DD5.1 programs, never on locally originated programs.

The schedule shows the Padres/M's game on INHD 664 this Sunday @ 1pm. Will this be blocked, or will I be as happy as a little girl? :D

Originally posted by jimre
It's simple. There aren't any Mariners games on Comcast in HD this year. They're all on DirecTV.

And I'm not keeping current on the status of this, but DirecTV is in the process of adding a new compression scheme to their HD transmissions, so any equipment you buy now will need to be supplemented (at what cost is unknown).

Baseball really needs to get this HD thing worked out. In 2005 I have no interest in watching sports in SD.

jimre responded, "It's simple. There aren't any Mariners games on Comcast in HD this year. They're all on DirecTV."

Very discouraging... So, it seems this year we have as much reason to be disgusted with the Mariners' on-the-screen performance as we do with their on-the-field performance...

Did Comcast decide not to pursue it (or bid enough for it) this year, or did the M's decide to take more money from Direct TV and give them an exclusive? Either way, as a paying Comcast customer I feel like a victim of another game of "hide the ball"... especially when that monthly cable bill arrives and I'm charged every bit as much as last year, but there's no M's baseball in HD...

In previous years, Fox Sports (FSN) did not produce any Mariners games in HD, just SD. Only the Japanese network NHK did HD productions of Mariners games for broadcast back in Japan - but only a small # of games, like 20/year. Comcast put together a deal to package the Japanese HD video with the FSN audio - thus for the last two years, Comcast gave us a limited # of Mariners games in HD (no doubt this was very cheap for them to do).

This year, FSN is producing it's own HD broadcast (FSN-HD). FSN-HD has signed a contract with DirecTV to show those games. I've heard different opinions on whether this contract is exclusive to DirecTV, or whether Comcast might also purchase the rights to these games at some point. I guess if other regional cable providers like Click! in Tacoma can show it, then it's not exclusive. Comcast is either too cheap to purchase the rights to it, or else they are dragging out "negotiations" for years like they did with CBS-HD.

I emailed a senior local guy at Comcast about the FSN-HD Mariners telecasts shortly after D* cut their deal with FSN. I got the following response:
Unfortunately, as of now, we will not be carrying the Mariners in HD. We offered to cover the cost of producing the games in HD, but Fox wanted 3 to 4 times the cost.
Obviously, the issue is money. It sounds like Comcast made a reasonable financial offer, but it obviously wasn't enough.

Originally posted by jhachey
...Obviously, the issue is money. It sounds like Comcast made a reasonable financial offer, but it obviously wasn't enough. Offering to cover their costs is NOT a "reasonable financial offer". Just a wild guess - but I'm pretty sure FSN went thru all the trouble of producing an HD broadcast with the idea of making money, not breaking even.

Offering to cover their costs is NOT a "reasonable financial offer". Just a wild guess - but I'm pretty sure FSN went thru all the trouble of producing an HD broadcast with the idea of making money, not breaking even.

I agree. Obviously, FSN wants to make money, and getting break-even on production would make very little sense. If Comcast offered break-even on an exclusive deal, then offering to cover FSN's costs is NOT a "reasonable financial offer."

However, FSN has not touted the D* deal as an exclusive offer. Consequently, I am assuming that FSN has retained the right to strike a deal with Comcast and other cable operators.

Assuming (and this is a huge assumption), Comcast's offer was non-exclusive, then offering to pay the costs of production should have resulted in a tidy little profit for FSN. After all, FSN already had a deal with D* and still had the potential to cut deals with Charter, Millennium, and other cable operators in Washington, Oregon, and Idaho.

Obviously, the reasonableness of Comcast's offer depends on whether or not the offer was based on exclusive rights. I assumed that Comcast was still willing to offer production costs after the D* deal had been struck, which I think would have been a pretty reasonable offer. I may well be very wrong in my assumption and thus very wrong in my conclusion.

r-gordon-7-

If you go back through this thread, you will see several posts I have written about HDTV and the Mariners, just do a search for my user name.

If you still have questions after that, feel free to ask.

Comcast is frustrating the heck out of me on this M's issue. My cable/internet bill is $100 a month AFTER the $17 discount for a "dish buy back," I have no premium programming, and a cruddy HD selection. If the upcoming D* DVR is at all competitively priced, I'm jumping back to satellite. Right now the D* HD selection doesn't appear to be much better, but given Comcast's track record, I don't plan to bet on them.

Any Comcast customer in the Seattle/south King County area have analog cable and no digital except HD, using the Comcast 6412 HD DVR? Or, an non-DVR HD box?

My sister-in-law lives in a condo with no-charge expanded basic (analog) cable, and she wants HD either via a QAM STB or a Comcast HD box. I heard second hand that Comcast offers HD-only digital (without SD digital) for $8.95 per month or something like that.

TIA.

This point may have already been made so sorry for the redundancy if so, but given the corporate relationship between FSN, FOX and Directv, it seems obvious that Directv is going to get the first and cheapest opportunity to do the HD broadcasts of FSN games. Comcast or anyone else is at a distinct competitive disadvantage. I was hoping that Comcast would start carrying UPN 11 digital channel and then contract to have HD broadcasts of the portion of the M's games that could be on that channel, but evidently not.

FWIW, I have not seen any Mariners games broadcast in HD on UPN 11 this season. I too was hoping they would do some. I know that Ron Diotte, engineer at UPN 11, indicated they were interested in doing so, but he had no assurance that they would be able to.

Originally posted by Don Wilkinson
I would be very interested to see if changing the channel, then back solves the problem that you folks are seeing. Any feedback that you can provide will help to determine just what is going on.

Occasionally, my audio on KOMO-DT and KCPQ-DT "vanishes" on my SIR-T151. Flipping up/down one channel, then flipping back solves the problem. I haven't seen it happen on any other channel.

Originally posted by pastiche
Occasionally, my audio on KOMO-DT and KCPQ-DT "vanishes" on my SIR-T151. Flipping up/down one channel, then flipping back solves the problem. I haven't seen it happen on any other channel.

Isn't that interesting?

I have seen some audio issues with the first generation Samsung receivers that were resolved by firmware updates. However, this was the first time that I have seen anything like that with my SIR-T160.

All of this is good information that should be helpful in discussing audio issues with the folks who designed the ATSC system. Sometimes they have run into the issues somewhere else and can provide some help.

Thanks, I do appreciate the feedback.

Don

Don, I'm going to start logging the audio dropouts (as suggested by Chris / Junior34), to see if there's any patterns to when / where (particularly if it's on KOMO). Note that I almost always watch shows recorded on the 6412 (and even shows that are watched "live" are going through a record buffer), so there's probably not much I can do to test "change the channel to see if the dropout is still there". The dropouts are almost (and consistently) 2-3 seconds, so by the time the 6412 changes channels and back (when watching "live"), the typical dropout period is already elapsed.

What really would be useful, if at all possible, would be a tool that could take the recorded HD transport stream (almost everything we watch is hi-def), from the 6412 hard drive and see what the audio bits in the file stream shows. Actually, come to think of it (and more practical), I wonder if someone could take the transport stream from the firewire output and see if something interesting shows up ... although the output over the firewire has already gone through some decoding, I would expect, so it wouldn't match the recorded transport stream bit for bit ...

Cliff

Well, here are the e-mails I'm sending to Comcast & the Mariners, respectively. They'll probably just ignore them and may-well not be addressed to the correct "at fault" parties, but frankly, at this point, I don't really care... I'm paying Comcast through the nose for HD service largely to see Mariners games in HD and apparently won't be able to see any this season, despite the huge monthly bill from Comcast. And as for the Mariners, well... frankly they don't seem to have a clue about much of anything...


To Comcast...

My understanding is that, this year, there will be no Mariners broadcasts in HD on Comcast. I don’t know whether the blame for this lies with Comcast, with the Mariners, or with both – though I suspect it is probably with both. I do note that Tacoma’s publicly-owned cable system does have the Mariners broadcasts in HD this year, so clearly Comcast was not precluded from successfully negotiating/bidding if it had sought to do so. Unfortunately, the monopolistic nature of your service prevents the customers from subscribing to the cable system of our choice. So, the ultimate victim of this is the captive Comcast HD customer, who is paying at least as much this year as last for your service, but who is now no longer receiving what, at least in my case, was the primary incentive for subscribing in the first place – Mariners baseball in HD.

(Note, I do not care for, follow or ever even watch any sports other than baseball, so please don’t reply with comments about other sports coverage you might have in HD, as I simply don’t care…)

I want to know what sort of rate reduction I can expect from Comcast for your not having any HD Mariners broadcasts this season – as that has been the principal use I’ve made - and has been the principal value to me – of the HD capability for which I pay you each month – and which use and value has now been taken away.

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


To the M’s…

I understand that there are to be no Mariners HD broadcasts on Comcast cable this season – only on Direct TV and on cable systems serving other areas, such as Tacoma. And so, it seems there’s every bit as much reason to be disgusted with the Mariners’ on-screen performance this year as there is to be disgusted with the Mariners’ on-field performance… That’s two strikes. Add to that the lingering disgust remaining from the manner in which you handled (or rather chose not to handle) season ticket re-location/location-improvement requests this past off-season (sorry, but I’m a victim of that fiasco too) and that’s three strikes… Not a very good track record for a business that is really just a discretionary-dollar entertainment business and must thrive (or fail) on the good will it engenders (or trashes) in the eyes of its fans. No wonder attendance is down this year. Get ready for more of the same in the future, unless you wake up and treat your existing fan base with a little more respect.

Might there not have been a better way to handle your HD broadcasts than to subject your existing stable of Comcast HD subscriber viewers (many of whom probably became Comcast cable HD subscribers over the past year or two largely because of the Comcast HD Mariners broadcasts) to the fate of being “either-or / bait-and-switch pawns” in the cable TV/satellite TV wars? Is that really your battle? Shouldn’t your goal be to increase exposure and viewership so as to increase (or at least stably maintain) your fan base rather than alienate it?

Let it come as no more than small comfort to you that I’m no happier with Comcast than I am with the Mariners about this. However, that notwithstanding, I’m not about to switch to Direct TV, because to do so would require a capital investment and a contractual commitment that would need to be amortized over more than one season - and YOU have demonstrated that you can’t be trusted to keep from screwing your fans by refraining from ”switching horses” for that long… No sooner would I switch to Direct TV this season, than you’d go back to cable if they offered you a more lucrative short-term deal next season…Thank you, but that’s a “sucker’s game” – one on which I and I suspect many if not most others will simply pass…

I think they are just flat out of bandwidth, so everything else is simply an excuse.

They couldn't possibly be out of bandwidth, considering all the channels they've eliminated without adding anything.

Weren't they eliminating channels to add digital versions of the SD locals?

But I'm pretty sure it's not a bandwidth issue. The Mariners in HD would be a big selling point for Comcast (they had it on billboards last year).

I suspect it's one of those things where the contract provider realizes that, and is holding out for top dollar, and the cable provider doesn't want to give in for fear of setting a precident.

Gee sounds like Cox/Comcast over KIRO, doesn't it? :rolleyes:

Originally posted by Karyk
Weren't they eliminating channels to add digital versions of the SD locals?

With Comcast, who really knows why they do anything? They're not into sharing info.

Originally posted by Budget_HT
Any Comcast customer in the Seattle/south King County area have analog cable and no digital except HD, using the Comcast 6412 HD DVR? Or, an non-DVR HD box?

My sister-in-law lives in a condo with no-charge expanded basic (analog) cable, and she wants HD either via a QAM STB or a Comcast HD box. I heard second hand that Comcast offers HD-only digital (without SD digital) for $8.95 per month or something like that.

TIA. I live in Kent and have analog expanded basic with the Motorola 6200 non DVR HD box for $6.75 per month and receive 104, 105, 106, 107, 108, 109, 110, 112, 113, 119, 173, and 180 in addition to 2 thru 99 and VOD. For random short periods 663, 664, and 665 also come in clear. My provider is the Comcast Auburn office. sam

What's on channel 180?

Originally posted by boykster
What's on channel 180?
NFL

ah, ty

Most of my channels above 119 are out at the moment (but strangely, not all). No message, just a blank screen.

Now they seem to be intermittent. Some "once were lost, but now are found". No 173, 663, 664, or 665, but 180 has returned.

If there's a general outage, now would be a good time for a Comcast message.


(11:40AM -- everything seems to have returned.)

Originally posted by Weil
I live in Kent and have analog expanded basic with the Motorola 6200 non DVR HD box for $6.75 per month and receive 104, 105, 106, 107, 108, 109, 110, 112, 113, 119, 173, and 180 in addition to 2 thru 99 and VOD. For random short periods 663, 664, and 665 also come in clear. My provider is the Comcast Auburn office. sam

Thank you very much.

I knew I had read somewhere that someone had this combination.

My sister-in-law's scenario is complicated by the fact that the condo association provides the expanded basic analog cable, so, unless someone adds services beyond that, they do not have an individual account with Comcast. The apartment building my father lives in has exactly the same arrangement.

The next challenge will be to see if the existing, 30-year-old inside wiring will pass the digital HD signals successfully or not. I have no idea how or where the cable splitting is done to feed multiple living units and two rooms within each living unit.

Anyone have HD working in an older MDU (multiple dwelling unit) environment?

I had two anomalies while watching Lost (recorded on the 6412) last night - however, both were of the video / audio "freeze, jump" variety rather than the silent "audio dropout only" type of problems. I wouldn't be surprised if these are due to network broadcast issues (or maybe something in the Comcast network or on the 6412 itself). The two times were at approx 22 minutes and 41 minutes into Lost.

I also had the "FF stuck" problem again after FF'ing through the last set of commercials on CSI:NY ... very irritating. It happens about once every 2-3 weeks. The usual "unplug power" reset had to be performed (I didn't want to wait for the "slow FF" to finish to the end of the show). On a side note, CSI:NY didn't have any freezes or audio dropouts.

The next KOMO show I'll be watching is Desperate Housewives on Sunday, so it will be some good data points to see if there's any problems (audio dropouts or video / audio freezes) on other shows (other channels) before then.

Cliff

Originally posted by cliffg
I had two anomalies while watching Lost (recorded on the 6412) last night - however, both were of the video / audio "freeze, jump" variety rather than the silent "audio dropout only" type of problems. I wouldn't be surprised if these are due to network broadcast issues (or maybe something in the Comcast network or on the 6412 itself). The two times were at approx 22 minutes and 41 minutes into Lost.
Cliff

I watch via OTA, have not watched Lost yet, hope to do so in the next couple of days, will post what I find. I did however watch Alias last night and had one dropout right near the beginning, and then 2 more near the end, one on a commercial right before the show came on, and the other in the show. Don't have exact times. Could have been others during commericals but was fast forwarding over those.

I noticed them in "Lost" as well. There were two sets of about three or four glitches each in quick succession.

Originally posted by cliffg
I had two anomalies while watching Lost (recorded on the 6412) last night - however, both were of the video / audio "freeze, jump" variety rather than the silent "audio dropout only" type of problems. I wouldn't be surprised if these are due to network broadcast issues (or maybe something in the Comcast network or on the 6412 itself). The two times were at approx 22 minutes and 41 minutes into Lost.

...
Cliff

Yep, I also had the audio/video glitches during "Lost" on my HR10-250 DirecTivo recording KOMO-DT. I hope the KOMO engineering team can solve these problems soon.

Originally posted by cliffg
I had two anomalies while watching Lost (recorded on the 6412) last night - however, both were of the video / audio "freeze, jump" variety rather than the silent "audio dropout only" type of problems. I wouldn't be surprised if these are due to network broadcast issues (or maybe something in the Comcast network or on the 6412 itself). The two times were at approx 22 minutes and 41 minutes into Lost.

I also had the "FF stuck" problem again after FF'ing through the last set of commercials on CSI:NY ... very irritating. It happens about once every 2-3 weeks. The usual "unplug power" reset had to be performed (I didn't want to wait for the "slow FF" to finish to the end of the show). On a side note, CSI:NY didn't have any freezes or audio dropouts.

The next KOMO show I'll be watching is Desperate Housewives on Sunday, so it will be some good data points to see if there's any problems (audio dropouts or video / audio freezes) on other shows (other channels) before then.

Cliff

I saw the two picture freezes when watching live, as well. It is really difficult to tell where it is coming from. The HD programming is fed by satellite...a separate satellite feed from the analog programs. There have been interference issues on the HD feed, but that has been considerably reduced in recent weeks/months.

KOMO has a Trivini streamscope to evaluate the transport stream, but they have to catch it doing something in order to get a clue as to the problem.

Don

Originally posted by Don Wilkinson
I saw the two picture freezes when watching live, as well. It is really difficult to tell where it is coming from. The HD programming is fed by satellite...a separate satellite feed from the analog programs. There have been interference issues on the HD feed, but that has been considerably reduced in recent weeks/months.

I didn't notice any picture freezes, but I lost audio for 3 or 4 seconds at one point during LOST last night. It wasn't lenghty enough to flip up/down a channel. If it helps you, Don, my SIR-T151 is upgraded to the Broadcast Flag compatible firmware. (I can't find a way to view the actual version number.)

Also, I neglected to mention yesterday, that I haven't seen these problems on my WinTV-D card.

Originally posted by pastiche
I didn't notice any picture freezes, but I lost audio for 3 or 4 seconds at one point during LOST last night. It wasn't lenghty enough to flip up/down a channel. If it helps you, Don, my SIR-T151 is upgraded to the Broadcast Flag compatible firmware. (I can't find a way to view the actual version number.)

Also, I neglected to mention yesterday, that I haven't seen these problems on my WinTV-D card.

I don't see it on my HiPix card either. However, the HiPix tends to drift out of lip-sync over a long period of time. It come right back in if I tune away then right back to 4-1.

Strange.

Early on there was one evening where the HiPix had no audio and the T160 had normal sound.

The guys are continuing to refine the HD video path. They recently installed a new rack of ABC satellite receiving equipment.

It is an extremely complicated process when you mix local digital HDTV and network HDTV with embedded DD5.1 though routing and production switchers. It would be a lot simpler to patch the HD right through to the transmitter. I am always amazed that it works as well as it does.

Don

Originally posted by Don Wilkinson
It is an extremely complicated process when you mix local digital HDTV and network HDTV with embedded DD5.1 though routing and production switchers. It would be a lot simpler to patch the HD right through to the transmitter. I am always amazed that it works as well as it does.

I can't even begin to imagine just how complicated. But thanks for the effort you put into it and the equal effort you put into helping us get the most out of it. :)

I just set up my sister-in-law's Samsung SIR-T451 QAM STB (HD tuner). Interesting that the outer box specifies QAM but the owner's manual says ATSC/8VSB only, no cable support.

The bad news: We got several HD locals okay, after adding 10 db of gain right out of the wall (offset partially by about 7 db in a 1:4 splitter). Before that most were pixelating heavily. So she gets KOMO-DT, KING-DT, KONG-DT, KCTS-DT (all 4 sub channels), KCPQ-DT, KTWB-DT all fine. KIRO-DT barely comes in, flashing on, pixelating, flashing off, and so on. Tried attenuating, to no avail, just goes away completely.

The good news?: I saw digital versions of many of the Comcast analog channels, including main locals, and other known analog cable channels. About 30 or so channels in all. BUT, they appeared heavily compressed and had motion and heavy picture change artifacts, looking much like an SA TiVo recording at Basic quality. I would say they have some adjusting to do to bring these up to snuff. Compared to SD local channels I receive from DirecTV, the Comcast digitized locals were pretty bad. Here's hoping they will continue to tweak and improve them. I left the list of channels numbers (for the digitized analogs) behind, but I think they were mostly in the low 70's, with ten subchannels for each main channel number.

I guess we get to call Comcast out to see if they can get a usable signal delivered to the condo.

Budget_HT
Check your reception again as on Saturday, there was a lot of pixelation that went away on Sunday. They randomly have bad reception and one day doesn't count. sam

Budget_HT
Check your reception again as on Saturday, there was a lot of pixelation that went away on Sunday. They randomly have bad reception and one day doesn't count. sam

Sam,

Thanks for the info. Actually, I did not get the HD tuner until Sunday morning, so everything digital I saw was on Sunday. But, I will have her check again tonight.

I'm curious how much everyone here that has a second DVR is paying for it. I was quoted a price from a Comcast rep, but I'd like to find out if there are different rates.

Thanks! :)

I'm curious how much everyone here that has a second DVR is paying for it. I was quoted a price from a Comcast rep, but I'd like to find out if there are different rates.

Thanks! :)


i believe its additional 14.99 .... 10 for HD receiver and 5 for the DVR service ... at least that how they nickel and dime you in the explanation.

I had two anomalies while watching Lost (recorded on the 6412) last night - however, both were of the video / audio "freeze, jump" variety rather than the silent "audio dropout only" type of problems. I wouldn't be surprised if these are due to network broadcast issues (or maybe something in the Comcast network or on the 6412 itself). The two times were at approx 22 minutes and 41 minutes into Lost.
Cliff

Little late, but finally got around to watching last week's Lost that I recorded to my Dish DVR 942 via OTA and I had the same issues at the same time. Just throwing it out there for tracking. Those were the only 2 times I had issues.

i believe its additional 14.99 .... 10 for HD receiver and 5 for the DVR service ... at least that how they nickel and dime you in the explanation.

Their prices are easy to understand:
$5 extra for any extra box
+ $5 for an advanced box (aka HD)
+ $5 for the PVR service (per box)

That's why it would cost you an extra $5 for a standard receiver, $10 for a 6200 and $15 for a 6412.

-eric

Thanks for the replies, I appreciate it. I was quoted $15.95 and I wanted to make sure that was the rate everyone got, it did seem high. I guess the other rental fee is built into the plan fee.

:rolleyes:

I've been wondering myself - my sat dish trade-in discount just quit, and my Comcast bill is now almost $150 ... time to take a look at what I'm paying for and what I can get rid of.

I have a line item charge for "DVR Service", $9.95, and "DVR Additional Outlet", $15.05. Everything else is "Silver Package", which I'll probably change, Basic Cable (Limited and Expanded), Hi Speed Internet, a measly $1.61 service discount (which I assume is for having both TV and Internet), and various taxes.

$25 for two 6412 boxes seems a little high, but maybe it's in line and reasonable with everything else ....

Cliff

I've been wondering myself - my sat dish trade-in discount just quit, and my Comcast bill is now almost $150 ... time to take a look at what I'm paying for and what I can get rid of.
Wow, that's about as high as it goes. It's $99.95 for everything, and $42.95 for HSI ($45.95 if you rent the modem, I do), so that's $145.90. Taxes would take it just over $150, so if you don't have the full package, I'd look into it!

[snip] a measly $1.61 service discount (which I assume is for having both TV and Internet), and various taxes.
[snip]
Cliff

The multi-product discount for HSI and TV is $10/month. The discount should show up as a line item on the High Speed Internet (mine is $42.95/mo because I own my own cable modem, I think the price w/ modem rental is $45.95/mo)

I just finished watching the American Experience program about the Patty Hearst kidnapping on KCTS-HD, and was surprised to hear a large number of audible "pops" throughout the program. Anyone else hear this? Was this replicated OTA, or was this just Comcast?

Didn't experience it with that channel but tonight on Lost channel 104 was horrible. The video actually froze at about 17 minutes into the show and then the audio began dropping until I had to change the channel to 4. I am very unhappy with the reception that I have been receiving ever since swithching to Comcast. I was contacted by a Comcast supervisor and I told him about the problems. He has called and left a message checking up on the status of the signal and I returned his call leaving a message int he process. No resolution as of yet. I'[m afraid I will have to go back to Directv. I have the supervisor's phone number if anyone wants it.

Didn't experience it with that channel but tonight on Lost channel 104 was horrible. The video actually froze at about 17 minutes into the show and then the audio began dropping until I had to change the channel to 4. I am very unhappy with the reception that I have been receiving ever since swithching to Comcast. I was contacted by a Comcast supervisor and I told him about the problems. He has called and left a message checking up on the status of the signal and I returned his call leaving a message int he process. No resolution as of yet. I'[m afraid I will have to go back to Directv. I have the supervisor's phone number if anyone wants it.

It wasn't just Comcast .... I had similar problems with video freezes and audio cutouts during "Lost" with HR10-250 HD DirecTivo and over-the-air KOMO-DT. I wish KOMO could solve their continuing network issues.

It wasn't just Comcast .... I had similar problems with video freezes and audio cutouts during "Lost" with HR10-250 HD DirecTivo and over-the-air KOMO-DT. I wish KOMO could solve their continuing network issues.

I agree. I watch HD programming on many stations and KOMO has consistently been the worst with audio/video jumps/drops on almost every single episode of Lost this season, in addition to some other shows I watch. I do appreciate that the KOMO engineers are working on the problem, but taking over six months to solve a problem that other stations don't seem to have is horribly irresponsible for a major TV station. To have such errors (and even worse ones at that) during the season finale time-frame is simply inexcusable. As a result, I actually have begun taping several of the ABC shows I like on a VCR as well as my DCT-6412 so I can catch the audio I missed during the HD shows. If KOMO can't reliably broadcast in HD, they should stop doing so and simply simulcast digital versions of shows on the HD channel. This would be more enjoyable to me than worrying about which piece of critical dialog I'll miss each time I watch an episode of Lost.

Good to know that the OTA people have the same problem, no offense. I will tell the Comcast supervisor when I talk to him again. Thanks Much

IIf KOMO can't reliably broadcast in HD, they should stop doing so and simply simulcast digital versions of shows on the HD channel. .

I certainly hope they don't take this advice. I don't watch lost, but the few shows I watch on KOMO have been much better, if not perfect, of late. But forcing people to watch SD is a really bad idea.

I just finished watching the American Experience program about the Patty Hearst kidnapping on KCTS-HD, and was surprised to hear a large number of audible "pops" throughout the program. Anyone else hear this? Was this replicated OTA, or was this just Comcast?

I noticed that yesterday on several programs recorded from 108. The pops sounded like static on a poor AM radio transmission.