Check your channel guide for 664 then you will believe me. The channel guide might say it, but I have turned to channel 664 countless times in the last two weeks, only to see a white screen with the INHD logo and some insipid elevator music playing for hours on end. Things don't always get switched properly.

The channel guide might say it, but...

I'd say gdeep has been vindicated as knowing what he's talking about for this particular issue... now if only UW looked like themselves today we might actually have something good to watch!

I'd say gdeep has been vindicated as knowing what he's talking about for this particular issue... now if only UW looked like themselves today we might actually have something good to watch!

How do we know when they look like themselves? They've played so few reputable teams this year.

Anyone else drawing a black screen for 113 FOX for the Cotton Bowl? Man it really pisses me off when this happens. Either the lousy DVR doesn't record it or the channel doesn't come in.

Thanks for letting me vent

Looks fine to me -- especially after the Auburn win.

I was watching the sonics game last night and pq was much better. Did anybody else notice the difference too?

Happy New Year, everyone.

I'm new to HDTV; expecting a JVC 1080p LCD set (with QAM tuner) to come by Fedex tomorrow. We have basic cable from Comcast (no cable box) and 2 ReplayTVs. I can tell from reading this thread that we should be able to get local channels in HD, but not ESPN-HD - which is fine. My questions:

Is there some reason to get a cable box or cable card?

Will I get the same signal quality running a coax cable from the wall to the HDTV and RTV, or does a cable box/CC result in a better signal for either the HDTV or RTV?

I'm sorry if questions like this have been asked before, but even using advanced search could not find a way to thin out the 276 pages of this thread!

Bob

Happy New Year, everyone.

I'm new to HDTV; expecting a JVC 1080p LCD set (with QAM tuner) to come by Fedex tomorrow. We have basic cable from Comcast (no cable box) and 2 ReplayTVs. I can tell from reading this thread that we should be able to get local channels in HD, but not ESPN-HD - which is fine. My questions:

Is there some reason to get a cable box or cable card?

Will I get the same signal quality running a coax cable from the wall to the HDTV and RTV, or does a cable box/CC result in a better signal for either the HDTV or RTV?

I'm sorry if questions like this have been asked before, but even using advanced search could not find a way to thin out the 276 pages of this thread!

Bob

So now you have an HD set. I've had 3 replayTVs and they are now offline. If you plan on watching HD live, get the cable card. If you want to time shift, get the Comcats DVR. If you do the latter, reserve your replays as a backup or for shows that are not in HD and for the kids. Once you've switched to HD you'll never want to go back. It costs $15 for the DVR and is only $5 over a HD STB. If you don;t like it, you can take it back at anytime unlike the relaytvs. You have nothing to lose.

If you're not into time shifting and your tv supports the cable card, there's no harm in getting it (at least your stations will be mapped automatically). I'm not sure if there is a minimal level of service you have to get a free cable card, however. The cable box probably won't be a better picture...

Thanks, James, for the really quick reply. I appreciate what you are saying about not going back to SD, but so far I have been watching my RTV exclusively and never watch commercials or live TV. This HDTV is a replacement for a dying CRT TV that we bought in 1992.

Can you explain to me what the CC will give me that I won't get just hooking coax to the HDTV? I don't care about ESPN-HD and don't subscribe to any premium channels.

I was also wondering if using a cable box would provide S Video IN to my RTV, and if that would improve the quality of the recordings. Do you know about this?

Bob

Is there some reason to get a cable box or cable card? Yes, if:
1) you want to receive digital subscription-only channels, like ESPN-HD, Discovery-HD - get either cable box or CableCard.
2) you want to record HD shows (something your Replay won't do) - rent Comcast's DVR (or buy a Series 3 Tivo w/ dual CableCards).
3) you want to use OnDemand - get cable box.
4) you want stable, sensible channel numbering that's actually supported & published by Comcast - either cable box or CableCard.

Will I get the same signal quality running a coax cable from the wall to the HDTV and RTV, or does a cable box/CC result in a better signal for either the HDTV or RTV?As long as your cable signal strength is adequate, it should be the same either way.

what jimre said

Just some more venting. I have not had 113 FOX all day here in Kenmore. Am I the only one? If so, where should I be looking to fix it? Is it the Mot 3412 or my cable? Channels above and below are OK. 113 is black. Should I report this to Comcast or is that a waste of time?

Thanks for any advice or hand holding.

One thing to check is the tightness of the cable connection to the box. I haven't had any problems with 113, but I have with 110 and 116, and that was the cause.

One thing to check is the tightness of the cable connection to the box. I haven't had any problems with 113, but I have with 110 and 116, and that was the cause.

Thanks for the advice. I checked the cables and one end needed a couple of twists to tighten it completely but alas still no 113. I'll look around and see if I have another cable to try

Hi. If there's someone from KOMO around, I am curious about the audio on KOMO-DT for the Rose Bowl. Moderator Ken H reported in the HDTV Programming forum that the game was being done in Dolby 2.0. (Of course, KOMO-DT transmits everything in 5.1, upconverting stereo sources as needed.) So, did ABC/ESPN really do the Rose Bowl in stereo, not DD 5.1? If so, the mix was pretty good for a stereo broadcast - better than Fox's 5.1 on the Fiesta Bowl. Announcers were anchored in the center channel. L/R had ambience and a taste of announce. The surrounds had ambience. How does KOMO pull a mix like that out of a 2.0 audio track?

Thanks.

Dolby Digital 2.0 can carry matrixed Dolby Surround sound that can be decoded by a Dolby Pro Logic decoder. If the source has matrixed surround, KOMO's conversion process could decode that and map the sound to the appropriate 5.1 channels.

That said, I did not watch that game and I do not have any inside knowledge of exactly how KOMO-DT is processing non-DD5.1 audio sources.

Is anybody else not getting anything on InHD? All I'm getting is a white screen with the InHD logo and some background music. The channel guide says it's supposed to be an NFL Replay broadcast, presumably from NFL Network HD.

MHD works very well, however, and they have been showing some live performance programs the last couple of hours, it was Dashboard Confessional earlier and now it's Hoobastank.

Hey everyone. I read through about the last 10 pages of this thread... wow am I glad I found it!

I just moved to the Seattle area and my apt only allows comcast unless you want to pay a ton extra. So needless to say I got a HDTV, and a HDDVR from comcast.

I have not been all that impressed so far... I have a "DCT3416 I" and have it hooked directly to my TV through HDMI.

I am getting alot of what you guys are calling "motion artifacts" or "macroblocking" that just seems to be unacceptable to me. I am wondering if by using the HDMI cables I am noticing it more?

Also, I have been having many issues with the box freezing from time to time- not the picture, but the whole box and remote. Sometimes it gets stuck in FF, sometimes while looking at the guide, etc. I called the CSR's at comcast and they have tried to help, but each one has a different explanation and what I have been getting is that all 3416's have this issue.

Can you help me with these things?

Should I scale back my cable hookups (meaning use componant instead of HDMI) to get rid of all the macroblocking?

What is the top of the line box that I can get right now? My rep told me I had it, but like I said... most that I have talked to have been pretty dense.

Again, thank goodness for this thread and you all!

D

Golf/Versus is on the air on 665.

Looks like a waste of a channel so far. Rocky IV and V are on tonight, but not marked as HD.

Golf/Versus is on the air on 665.

Looks like a waste of a channel so far.

As opposed to the other 600+ channels which are all fantastic! ;) :D

This is my biggest problem with starting to use the HD Homerun to record via SageTV. Everytime Comcast adds a channel, SageTV picks it up and I have to go in an delete it. It reminds me of back when I was with DirecTV.

Get a series 3 TiVo and all your problems will be solved. Seriously, they are freakin' amazing. I just upgraded from a single tuner S2 tivo to the S3 and OMG, the quality is freakin' amazing. All recordings are broadcast quality, crystal clear.

Hey everyone. I read through about the last 10 pages of this thread... wow am I glad I found it!

I just moved to the Seattle area and my apt only allows comcast unless you want to pay a ton extra. So needless to say I got a HDTV, and a HDDVR from comcast.

I have not been all that impressed so far... I have a "DCT3416 I" and have it hooked directly to my TV through HDMI.

I am getting alot of what you guys are calling "motion artifacts" or "macroblocking" that just seems to be unacceptable to me. I am wondering if by using the HDMI cables I am noticing it more?

Also, I have been having many issues with the box freezing from time to time- not the picture, but the whole box and remote. Sometimes it gets stuck in FF, sometimes while looking at the guide, etc. I called the CSR's at comcast and they have tried to help, but each one has a different explanation and what I have been getting is that all 3416's have this issue.

Can you help me with these things?

Should I scale back my cable hookups (meaning use componant instead of HDMI) to get rid of all the macroblocking?

What is the top of the line box that I can get right now? My rep told me I had it, but like I said... most that I have talked to have been pretty dense.

Again, thank goodness for this thread and you all!

D

Golf/Versus is on the air on 665.

Looks like a waste of a channel so far. Rocky IV and V are on tonight, but not marked as HD.

I was hoping Comcast would use it to broadcast Huskies BB in HD, instead of INHD. I expect they'll have the Tour de France in HD in a few years, and a few sporting events here and there. Otherwise, I agree . . . a waste of a channel."

Get a series 3 TiVo and all your problems will be solved. Seriously, they are freakin' amazing. I just upgraded from a single tuner S2 tivo to the S3 and OMG, the quality is freakin' amazing. All recordings are broadcast quality, crystal clear.

I have an S3 and agree that it is amazing. Even SD broadcasts are greatly improved. Unfortunately, I still get some macroblocking/pixilating (or whatever its called), especially in 1080i sporting events, and audio drops in and out on occassion. I expect these are Comcast issues, rather than the S3, and hope (plead) that they will go away with time.

That said, it seems well established that the S3 is far superior to the Motorolla POS you get from Comcast. The WSJ article seems to conclude that the only reason not to get an S3 is the $$$. Hopefully, this won't be a factor for long.

I thought this new HD channel on 665 was the one that was to show the huskies and sonics in HD and not use iNhd any longer...anyone know?


Keith

does anyone know if the 3416 DVR is available in seattle? i have the 3412 but i wanted to swap it out for more hard drive space. i called comcast to confirm before i pulled it out but they said that model "wasn't available in our market". i don't always believe comcast though

It's available at the Redmond office (or was when I picked one up in early December). I don't know about other offices.

Unfortunately, I still get some macroblocking/pixilating (or whatever its called), especially in 1080i sporting events, and audio drops in and out on occassion. I expect these are Comcast issues, rather than the S3, and hope (plead) that they will go away with time...As discussed here recently, the macroblocking is largely a local problem with KING & KIRO. They reduce the bitrate of the national network feed they receive, in order to devote local bandwidth to extra multicast channels (their Weather Plus and traffic cam channels, respectively). It's especially noticable with fast-action scenes (sports) when their MPEG2 encoder simply can't cram enough data into the allocated bitrate. It's not specific to 1080i. 720p is slightly better for sporting events, but reduced bitrate is a much bigger factor.

I also did some research and learned that while macroblocks are inherent to MPEG2 encoding process, there are some displays that can actually make them look worse. Specifically, it seems some TV scaler chips (specific Genesis/Faroudja models) pick up on the block's sharp edges and mistakenly try to "enhance" them!

But the KING/KIRO reduced-bitrate problem will be the same on either OTA or cable. Comcast can't fix it by sending us the national network feed - they're required to send us the local affiliate feed with the local affiliate's commercials.

As for audio dropouts - that could be any one of a bazillion different things, either at the network, the local affiliate, Comcast, your cable box, your A/V receiver, etc.

I also did some research and learned that while macroblocks are inherent to MPEG2 encoding process, there are some displays that can actually make them look worse. Specifically, it seems some TV scaler chips (specific Genesis/Faroudja models) pick up on the block's sharp edges and mistakenly try to "enhance" them!.

That must explain it. I've not noticed any macroblocking recently. I'm never sure whether what I'm watching was recorded off Comcast or OTA, but I've not noticed any.

I also did some research and learned that while macroblocks are inherent to MPEG2 encoding process, there are some displays that can actually make them look worse. Specifically, it seems some TV scaler chips (specific Genesis/Faroudja models) pick up on the block's sharp edges and mistakenly try to "enhance" them!



That makes a lot of sense. When others on this thread were complaining about macroblocking, I didn't see it (more accurately, didn't notice it). I have a Samsung HLR5078 that has been calibrated and the noise reduction system (part of that is edge enhancement) known as DNIE on these models has been turned off.

Get a series 3 TiVo and all your problems will be solved. Seriously, they are freakin' amazing. I just upgraded from a single tuner S2 tivo to the S3 and OMG, the quality is freakin' amazing. All recordings are broadcast quality, crystal clear.


Thanks. Just wondering though... and sorry for the newb question, but how do I go about getting Tivo if I have comcast? Do I have to buy the box from a place like best buy? Do I have to pay a Tivo and Comcast bill then?

Comcast analog channel 98 now has a barker that says

Univision se ha movido a un
canal nuevo y se puede encontrar
en al canal 28 o 29. Llame a
Comcast en 1-800-COMCAST con sus
preguntas. Gracias.

Babelfish translation

Univision has moved to a
new channel and channel
28 or 29 can be found in a. Call to
Comcast in 1-800-COMCAST with his
questions. Thanks.

AVS Forum translation

One less analog Comcast channel.
Expect more digital Comcast channels.

Thanks. Just wondering though... and sorry for the newb question, but how do I go about getting Tivo if I have comcast? Do I have to buy the box from a place like best buy? Do I have to pay a Tivo and Comcast bill then?

Yep, as far as I know, that's what you need to do.

BTW, whatever happened to the software Tivo was developing for the Comcast Moto boxes? I've not heard anything about that coming out. Did they decide that the Moto boxes are too much of a POS to put their software on?

Did they decide that the Moto boxes are too much of a POS to put their software on?

That would be a reasonable assumption.

Last reported status (that I could find) of the TiVo on Moto Comcast development and trial:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=8956712&&#post8956712

Just a quick heads up for those of you who aren't watching your UHD schedules. The pilot episodes of Stargate Atlantis and Firefly are showing tonight on UHD. :)

Thanks. Just wondering though... and sorry for the newb question, but how do I go about getting Tivo if I have comcast? Do I have to buy the box from a place like best buy? Do I have to pay a Tivo and Comcast bill then? The TIVO 3 is kind of pricey, like $700 last time I looked, and it also looked like TIVO upped the subscription price for new customers, something like close to $20 per month. This is why I would most certainly get a Comcast DVR if I didn't have an OTA HD card in my computer.

Anyone else lose the unecrypted qam broadcasts with comcast? Or maybe they just moved to new channels again?

Anyone else lose the unecrypted qam broadcasts with comcast? Or maybe they just moved to new channels again?


Which channels and when? Just HD channels, or all?

It was all HD channels I was trying, but they seem to be back now.

I am having problems with ABC-HD over QAM though (channel 82-4)... it's glitching a ton... has been since yesterday.

Hello,

While looking at the comcast web site, I noticed that comcast has a basic cable package, and an enhanced cable package that costs only a dollar more. I currently have the basic package. The QAM tuner on my TV already appears to pick up all the local HD and digital music channels, MoviePlex, etc. that are listed for the enhanced package. I only seem to be missing ON DEMAND. I don't expect to watch any ON DEMAND shows that require a payment, but the comcast site says that there are also free on demand programs, and other posts mention that you can sometimes watch the neighbors' on demand programs.

So my question is simply this: Am I missing much of anything by subscribing to basic cable as opposed to enhanced?

Thanks.

Hello,

While looking at the comcast web site, I noticed that comcast has a basic cable package, and an enhanced cable package that costs only a dollar more. I currently have the basic package. The QAM tuner on my TV already appears to pick up all the local HD and digital music channels, MoviePlex, etc. that are listed for the enhanced package. I only seem to be missing ON DEMAND. I don't expect to watch any ON DEMAND shows that require a payment, but the comcast site says that there are also free on demand programs, and other posts mention that you can sometimes watch the neighbors' on demand programs.

So my question is simply this: Am I missing much of anything by subscribing to basic cable as opposed to enhanced?

Thanks.

To get on-demand content you would need a digital package and a cable box. it's the only way to get it... or maybe not a digital package, but definetely a cable box

Hello,

While looking at the comcast web site, I noticed that comcast has a basic cable package, and an enhanced cable package that costs only a dollar more. I currently have the basic package. The QAM tuner on my TV already appears to pick up all the local HD and digital music channels, MoviePlex, etc. that are listed for the enhanced package. I only seem to be missing ON DEMAND. I don't expect to watch any ON DEMAND shows that require a payment, but the comcast site says that there are also free on demand programs, and other posts mention that you can sometimes watch the neighbors' on demand programs.

So my question is simply this: Am I missing much of anything by subscribing to basic cable as opposed to enhanced?

Thanks.

Comcast also has a "Limited Basic" package that is the same as the "Basic" package except is is missing channels like ESPN, Comedy Central, SciFi, Golf, HGTV, TNT, AMC, Cartoon Network, etc. "Limited Basic" is mostly just the broadcast channels and a few shopping channels, and government access channels and a few others. "Limited Basic" also has the HD versions of almost all of the broadcast channels. It is also quite a bit less per month (approx $15/month depending on your locale) For some reason, the website always fails to mention that this package is available.

The TIVO 3 is kind of pricey, like $700 last time I looked, and it also looked like TIVO upped the subscription price for new customers, something like close to $20 per month. This is why I would most certainly get a Comcast DVR if I didn't have an OTA HD card in my computer.

But if you didn't have a computer, and needed to buy one, the $700 wouldn't be so bad. I hadn't heard about the $20 thing though. That would certainly make a difference.

I went the HTPC route after considering the original HD Tivo, but there the ongoing fee was more like $55.00, because it required DirecTV.

For some reason, the website always fails to mention that this package is available.In most places, cable companies are legally required to offer a super-basic "lifeline" package like this - but they're not required to advertise it.

Hello,

While looking at the comcast web site, I noticed that comcast has a basic cable package, and an enhanced cable package that costs only a dollar more. I currently have the basic package. The QAM tuner on my TV already appears to pick up all the local HD and digital music channels, MoviePlex, etc. that are listed for the enhanced package. I only seem to be missing ON DEMAND. I don't expect to watch any ON DEMAND shows that require a payment, but the comcast site says that there are also free on demand programs, and other posts mention that you can sometimes watch the neighbors' on demand programs.

So my question is simply this: Am I missing much of anything by subscribing to basic cable as opposed to enhanced?

Thanks.
My experience with the neighbors' on demand program shows that it depends on your QAM tuner. The tuner in my Philips 37" LCD picks up the on demand programs in the high 90's and low 100's channel range. But I had a Vizio LCD for a short time with a QAM tuner that didn't pickup the On Demand stuff. With just a QAM tuner you should think of it as "ON YOUR NEIGHBORS DEMAND" since you have no control over the demand. I'm also just subscribering to the Limited Basic Cable (~$15/month).

I went the HTPC route after considering the original HD Tivo, but there the ongoing fee was more like $55.00, because it required DirecTV.

I recently went the HTPC route too. The only things I can't record with my HTPC that I watch somewhat regularly are premium channels and ESPN/ESPN2HD. 90% of what I watch are the HD local channels and ESPNHD. Since I never watch anything recorded on ESPNHD (the one station I watch live most of the time) I currently am paying for two DVRs, but at least one of them is going back (as soon as I have watched all the recordings). I have one in my bedroom and one in my living room. With my HTPC(s) I can watch any of the recordings in any of my rooms, without having the setup the DVR to record in multiple places. It annoyed me having to remember what was recorded in one place and not the other, and keeping up with it. The HTPC pretty much beats the DVR in everyway but channel selection, and they both cost me less than than the Tivo s3. If the Tivo s3 had the tivo to go features enabled, I might have considered it. But that montlhy additional fee would have been hard to get over...

Hello, I just purchased the OnAir GT QAM tuner and I am in kirkland. I wonder if there is a channel map available to tell me what broadcast each digital channel map too? For example 79-1 = ???, 81-2 = ???.

Thank you,
Ben

Here's my list from the end of last year, with xmlids for those that use them. It's not complete, and may have changed a bit with the shuffling of analog stations and addition of HD stations. I need the check... Note that I live in South Everett...

Not HD, but...
There's a message on my box from Comcast touting an ESPN Full Court free preview Jan. 5-12 on 420-425. It doesn't seem to be true. Anyone have any luck with that?

Not HD, but...
There's a message on my box from Comcast touting an ESPN Full Court free preview Jan. 5-12 on 420-425. It doesn't seem to be true. Anyone have any luck with that?

I'm glad I saw this. I get all 6 channels. It's awesome!!!

What I get is an ad display obscuring the bottom third of the picture. I suppose that isn't too bad, since I saw a posting on the Comcast forum from a Full Court subscriber complaining that his display had the same "feature". At least I'm not paying for it.

What I get is an ad display obscuring the bottom third of the picture. I suppose that isn't too bad, since I saw a posting on the Comcast forum from a Full Court subscriber complaining that his display had the same "feature". At least I'm not paying for it.

That sucks!! I feel lucky, but note FSN has 4 great games on today, especially the Oregon/UCLA game on now.

That sucks!! I feel lucky, but note FSN has 4 great games on today, especially the Oregon/UCLA game on now.

To qualify my statement above, the UW vs Arizona State game is only "great" b/c UW should easily win . . . at least this should be the case if the rankings are close to being correct.

I've recently noticed a few duplicate channels in the channel list on my TiVo S3. For example, part of my channel list looks like this:

104 KOMODT
105 KINGDT
105 KINGDT
106 KONGDT
106 KONGDT
107 KIRODT
108 KCTSDT5

Also repeated are 115 (KINGDT2), 174 (ESPN2HD) and 664 (INHDCOM). There may well be others -- those are just the ones I saw during a quick visual scan through the guide. In all of the cases I tried, the channels are truly identical (I can tune either and get exactly the same programming). If I look in the Channel List under Messages and Settings, it shows both instances. I could disable one, but I'm afraid that I'd pick the wrong one, and some day when the duplicate disappears, my Season Passes for that channel would break.

Is anyone else seeing this? Is this likely to be a Cable Card problem, a TiVo software problem or a guide data problem (Tribune)? It's not a huge problem (it's better than missing channels), but it's kind of odd...

I'm going to go post this on TiVocommunity.com too, to see if it's a more widespread S3 problem, but it seems likely to be local.

Is anyone else seeing this? . . . I'm going to go post this on TiVocommunity.com too, to see if it's a more widespread S3 problem, but it seems likely to be local.

Duplicate channels are a known and common problem with the S3. I don't know if this is a cablecard issue. Does anyone know of this happening on other Cablecard devices? I personally have a few duplicate channels in the Encore package. This can be an annoying problems while channel surfing.

There are several threads discussing the problem on Tivocommunity.com, and speculation is that the problem will be fixed soon via update. Tivo has been good about releasing minor updates to the S3 to fix problems. It released 8.01b and 8.01c since releasing the 8.01a on the S3 in September.

Update 8.1 is on the horizon, which will be the S3's first major update. It's my understanding that 8.1 will also activate the eSATA port for expansion drives.

In most places, cable companies are legally required to offer a super-basic "lifeline" package like this - but they're not required to advertise it.

A couple of years ago Comcast was highly promoting it to those who had just their Internet service, and no TV. It was sort of odd since it only adds about $3.00 to their revenue after the combination discount, but they must have thought it would lead to people migrating up to higher levels of service.

I've recently noticed a few duplicate channels in the channel list on my TiVo S3. For example, part of my channel list looks like this:

104 KOMODT
105 KINGDT
105 KINGDT
106 KONGDT
106 KONGDT
107 KIRODT
108 KCTSDT5

Also repeated are 115 (KINGDT2), .

Those aren't duplicates! Those are the HD channels for the locals. Channel 5 is SD and 105 is HD. In the case of 115, that's probably the second HD channel that King broadcasts--I'm not sure what that is--it might be weather or a picture of the airport, but it's probably next to worthless whatever it is.

Those aren't duplicates! Those are the HD channels for the locals. Channel 5 is SD and 105 is HD. In the case of 115, that's probably the second HD channel that King broadcasts--I'm not sure what that is--it might be weather or a picture of the airport, but it's probably next to worthless whatever it is.I think he was referring to the TWO channel 105's in his list, the TWO channel 106's, etc. I had the same reaction until I re-read his post more closely...

My tivo S3 is also displaying duplicates. both are showing the same Hd signal.

I have an S3 and agree that it is amazing. Even SD broadcasts are greatly improved. Unfortunately, I still get some macroblocking/pixilating (or whatever its called), especially in 1080i sporting events, and audio drops in and out on occassion. I expect these are Comcast issues, rather than the S3, and hope (plead) that they will go away with time.

That said, it seems well established that the S3 is far superior to the Motorolla POS you get from Comcast. The WSJ article seems to conclude that the only reason not to get an S3 is the $$$. Hopefully, this won't be a factor for long.

I noticed significant "macroblocking/pixilating" on almost every play during the Hawks game last night. Just bought the Vizio 47" 1080p LCD and hooked it directly to the coax cable out of the wall. I only have Comcast limited basic ($14/month), and I'm stoked that the built in QAM reciever detected all of the local HD channels.

I'm trying to figure out if 1) my connection is causing the macroblocking (would a DVR w/ HDMI cable reduce it?) or 2) if it's the TV.

Sounds like it might be Comcast... Thanks in advance for any input!

I noticed significant "macroblocking/pixilating" on almost every play during the Hawks game last night. Just bought the Vizio 47" 1080p LCD and hooked it directly to the coax cable out of the wall. I only have Comcast limited basic ($14/month), and I'm stoked that the built in QAM reciever detected all of the local HD channels.

I'm trying to figure out if 1) my connection is causing the macroblocking (would a DVR w/ HDMI cable reduce it?) or 2) if it's the TV.

Sounds like it might be Comcast... Thanks in advance for any input!Nope, the problem is KING. We just had this discussion a couple weeks ago when the Hawks game was on KIRO. Both KING and KIRO are apparently reducing the bitrate of the HD national network feed, before they send it out. This is so they have bandwidth to multicast an extra channel into their OTA signal - KING's Weather Plus, and KIRO's traffic cam - two channels I could gladly live without.

It's most noticable on scenes where large portions of the picture change between frames, eg - fast-moving sports, esp. closeups. The MPEG2 encoder simply can't stuff that much fast-changing data into the lower bitrate - so you see large, colored squares where the encoder has reduced the detail for those frames.

Your TV isn't the problem - the macroblocking is in the source signal from KING. But some TVs can make macroblocking look even worse than it really is. I read that some Genesis/Faroudja scaler chips see the sharp edges of the macroblocks and mistakenly try to ENHANCE them.

For some unexplained reason my moto 3416 cut off the last 2 minutes of my recording of the hawks game last night. :eek: After I picked myself up off of the floor, I began to think I must not be the only one. Anyone else?

For some unexplained reason my moto 3416 cut off the last 2 minutes of my recording of the hawks game last night. :eek: After I picked myself up off of the floor, I began to think I must not be the only one. Anyone else?

The game did last longer than the scheduled time, so perhaps that's it. With sporting events you either need to pad the ending, or record the next show.

I don't think we should lay the blame completely on the multi-casting that King and Kiro do, because PBS channel 9 in Seattle does the same thing, and their main HD picture is good, at least since the upgrade channel 9 did last summer, where they switched from atrocious 1080i multi-casting, to much better 720P multi-casting. I think the culprit is these two stations reducing the bandwidth more than is needed, maybe because of poor equipment.

I was able to compare the Comcast with the OTA and I thought the OTA was slighlty less macroblocked, but not by much.

This compares to very pristine NFL football on ABC, FOX, ESPN, INHD or whoever else is showing the game.

I'm not letting Comcast completely off the hook. I think they overcompress the heck out of some channels, mainly their SD channels. They blame the original source, like FSN, which is terrible, but in my opinion, they make it worse trying to squeeze extra channels into their lineup.

Is anyone gettting a jerky action or stuttering on the field level shots this morning on KIRO? I think I'll go look on the upstairs dlp and see if it is also doing it...

I don't think we should lay the blame completely on the multi-casting that King and Kiro do, because PBS channel 9 in Seattle does the same thing, and their main HD picture is good, at least since the upgrade channel 9 did last summer, where they switched from atrocious 1080i multi-casting, to much better 720P multi-casting. I think the culprit is these two stations reducing the bandwidth more than is needed, maybe because of poor equipment.

This was discussed a couple of days ago. It seems that 720P is more multi casting friendly. The 720P channels on KSTW and KMYQ look pretty good, even though they have less bandwidth available.
Unfortunately there's no 1080i station around here that transmits in fully bandwidth (and that shows some sports events). It would be interesting to see, how much macroblocking would be visible there

I don't think we should lay the blame completely on the multi-casting that King and Kiro do, because PBS channel 9 in Seattle does the same thing, and their main HD picture is good, at least since the upgrade channel 9 did last summer, where they switched from atrocious 1080i multi-casting, to much better 720P multi-casting. I think the culprit is these two stations reducing the bandwidth more than is needed, maybe because of poor equipment.

I was able to compare the Comcast with the OTA and I thought the OTA was slighlty less macroblocked, but not by much.

This compares to very pristine NFL football on ABC, FOX, ESPN, INHD or whoever else is showing the game.

I'm not letting Comcast completely off the hook. I think they overcompress the heck out of some channels, mainly their SD channels. They blame the original source, like FSN, which is terrible, but in my opinion, they make it worse trying to squeeze extra channels into their lineup.I guess when PBS starts showing NFL games instead of scenery, then we can make a more direct comparison :)

And whether or not Comcast over-compresses SD channels is irrelevant. Not to mention completely off-topic here in a "Seattle HDTV" thread.

For some unexplained reason my moto 3416 cut off the last 2 minutes of my recording of the hawks game last night. :eek: After I picked myself up off of the floor, I began to think I must not be the only one. Anyone else?

I can top this:

I set up a timed CAPDVHS recording session to capture the game from firewire, since I was at the game and not at home. Recording took up 32GB of hard disk. The pregame stuff was gorgeous, but just before kickoff, Comcast's Emergency Broadcast came on, and the cable box switched to ESPNHD after the test. So I ended up with 32GB of some SD program on ESPNHD instead of the game.

Fortunately, I had a backup recording in SD, but analog 5 has a lot of interference on it for some reason and is not really watchable.

Can't they put those EB tests on at 3AM when nobody is watching instead of during the prime sports HD time slot of the week? Either that or fix the box so it returns to the original channel afterwards instead of turning to some random channel.

I was just talking to a comcast service tech on the phone and he swore there was no DCT3416, that the DCT3412 was the latest and greatest. He said he wanted to know where I heard of that because a lot of people have been asking... The comcast reps often have no clue. I mean the replacement fee for not returning the 3416 is on my bill, so it does exist. Good thing I don't need to get it from him. I just thought I'd ask to see what he says... I'm returning a dvr for a regular box. I'll consider paying extra when it works. Mythtv and on-demand will be fine for me.

I can top this:

I set up a timed CAPDVHS recording session to capture the game from firewire, since I was at the game and not at home. Recording took up 32GB of hard disk. The pregame stuff was gorgeous, but just before kickoff, Comcast's Emergency Broadcast came on, and the cable box switched to ESPNHD after the test. So I ended up with 32GB of some SD program on ESPNHD instead of the game.

Fortunately, I had a backup recording in SD, but analog 5 has a lot of interference on it for some reason and is not really watchable.

Can't they put those EB tests on at 3AM when nobody is watching instead of during the prime sports HD time slot of the week? Either that or fix the box so it returns to the original channel afterwards instead of turning to some random channel.
I have the 6200 box (still waiting for a reliable dvr) and I had no problem with the box changing channels during/after the EB test. Did most people get a channel change? Was it because the EB test was not in HD? Seems a little strange...

I was just talking to a comcast service tech on the phone and he swore there was no DCT3416.


Yeah, when I got my 3416 and hooked it up, I wasn't getting channels 660 and 661 anymore, UHD and MHD, so I called Comcast to ask why I wasn't getting those channels.....

Suddenly, I felt like I was in the twilight zone or something because the rep I talked to acted like I was insane... "There are no channels on 660 and 661... oh you mean the spanish channels?" " No I mean UHD and MHD. I was getting them fine on my 3412..." he said nope I'm sorry we don't carry those, there are no channels on 660 or 661... I tried to explain over and over that I had been getting those channels before, but he insisted we don't get channels on 660 and 661.

Then he flipped his TV or whatever over to those channels and then I heard "OMG! There are channels! I had no idea we had these channels! Thank you sir for educating me!"

Anyway, we got the channels up and running on my 3416 finally, but it just goes to show you how uninformed some of the Comcast staff is about their service.

For some unexplained reason my moto 3416 cut off the last 2 minutes of my recording of the hawks game last night. :eek: After I picked myself up off of the floor, I began to think I must not be the only one. Anyone else?

My 3412 had problems last weekend. I recorded all 4 NFL games. I padded all games with an extra hour. On both days, I noticed a similar problem. About 2 or 2.5 hrs into the first recording the playback would hesitate for several seconds and then jump ahead 30 to 45 minutes. The progress ribbon showed there was something there but I could get it to play. In both cases, it caused me to miss the ends of the first playoff games on both days. Isn't that nice!

How hard can it be to make these DVRs work? I mean, my Tivo never does anything like this to me

...About 2 or 2.5 hrs into the first recording the playback would hesitate for several seconds and then jump ahead 30 to 45 minutes...

my Tivo never does anything like this to me

This is usually an indication that the incoming signal was deficient. Since it's digital, it's either there or it isn't. Your TiVo probably hasn't ever had to deal with a flaky digital signal.

It is irritating that they raised the prices on the DVRs and cable service. I guess they do offer more stations (specifically) HD so other than regular inflation they have somewhat of a justification for raising the prices on the service, but on the DVRs? We should get a discount with all the malfunctions they have.

I have the 6200 box (still waiting for a reliable dvr) and I had no problem with the box changing channels during/after the EB test. Did most people get a channel change? Was it because the EB test was not in HD? Seems a little strange...

Mine's a 6412 and it consistently does this. If I'm watching it on 105 and the EB test happens, the channel display shows 105, but the channel is something different. I suspect it just shows what's on the second tuner, but it's only an issue if you're doing unattended firewire recording.

Can I get some feedback from anyone who has purchased the HD Tivo S3 and hooked it up with Comcast Cable Cards? I have read horror stories and my S3tivo arrives this week. Do I go into Auburn office and ask for 2 CC's or do I need to make an appt with comcast? I would like to pick up the cards on my own if that is possible..

Thanks,

Keith

I figured this question would be ok in this Comcast Seattle thread as I bought this Tivo HD S3 to work with my Comcast Service...

Can I get some feedback from anyone who has purchased the HD Tivo S3 and hooked it up with Comcast Cable Cards? I have read horror stories and my S3tivo arrives this week. Do I go into Auburn office and ask for 2 CC's or do I need to make an appt with comcast? I would like to pick up the cards on my own if that is possible..

Thanks,

Keith

I figured this question would be ok in this Comcast Seattle thread as I bought this Tivo HD S3 to work with my Comcast Service...

If you have any experience with cablecards go ahead and pick them up. Even if you don't have experience your probably better off doing it yourself. Last year when I had a cablecard installed on my tv the tech didn't know what to do. After the tech left I figured it out on my own. The only thing these techns know is what their signal meter is showing them.

[QUOTE=keithaxis]Can I get some feedback from anyone who has purchased the HD Tivo S3 and hooked it up with Comcast Cable Cards? I have read horror stories and my S3tivo arrives this week. Do I go into Auburn office and ask for 2 CC's or do I need to make an appt with comcast? QUOTE]

I would pickup 2 cablecards before the S3 arrives.

If you already have extended basis, there probably won't be a reason for Comcast to come out. This was the case for me with the first set of cards Comcast gave me. Everything worked great without a Comcast visit (and accompanying $15 charge). I then made the mistake of switching names on my account, and Comcast made me get two new cablecards . . . even after I pleaded for them to give me the same ones. I received the limited basic and digital classic cards with the two new cards, but could not get the digital extended basic channels. Comcast claimed this was because they had to remove a filter because I had a new account. This seemed like BS, especially since I could view the extended basic channels in analog, but I ended up paying for a Comcast visit. They eventually fixed the problem, but I don't think it had anything to do with a filter.

If you do not already subscribe to extended basic, I would still pickup the cablecards before getting the S3, though I would setup a comcast visit as a safety, so you don't have to wait too long for an appointment.

Over the last weekend, I was trying to install cable card but my TV (Sony KDS-R60XBR1) could not acknowledge this card.

A pop up screen showed ERROR 161-1 and ask me to contact Comcast for further instruction.
A SET UP menu showed 2 sub menu. But the one I need to process was grayed out and unable to forward.

I contacted a tech at Comcast but he could not do anything since screen did not next step.

I would very much appreciated if anyone be able to tell me how to complete installation.
I already returned the card I had.

Thanks in advance.

My 3412 had problems last weekend. I recorded all 4 NFL games. I padded all games with an extra hour. On both days, I noticed a similar problem. About 2 or 2.5 hrs into the first recording the playback would hesitate for several seconds and then jump ahead 30 to 45 minutes. The progress ribbon showed there was something there but I could get it to play. In both cases, it caused me to miss the ends of the first playoff games on both days. Isn't that nice!

How hard can it be to make these DVRs work? I mean, my Tivo never does anything like this to me

You know how Tivo's can decide what programs you should watch? Well Moto boxes just decide that certain portions of NFL playoff games just shouldn't be watched! :D

This is exactly why I have not yet "upgraded" to a dvr box - I couldn't stand the aggravation after using Tivo for several years.

the guide calls for nfl network replays and all we get are the inhd logo for hours

Over the last weekend, I was trying to install cable card but my TV (Sony KDS-R60XBR1) could not acknowledge this card.

A pop up screen showed ERROR 161-1 and ask me to contact Comcast for further instruction.
A SET UP menu showed 2 sub menu. But the one I need to process was grayed out and unable to forward.

I contacted a tech at Comcast but he could not do anything since screen did not next step.

I would very much appreciated if anyone be able to tell me how to complete installation.
I already returned the card I had.

Thanks in advance.

Do a channel scan before you install the C.C.

I did my own S3 install: easy as pie. I'm in Kent, so I also pick up CC's at the Auburn office. They were very nice and didn't blink an eye. No charges. Just follow the instructions that come with the TiVo. The comcast tech support people on the phone that do the activation know the drill also and knew exactly what to do. PM me if you have any specific questions. Also: the S3 TiVo absolutely rocks!

Can I get some feedback from anyone who has purchased the HD Tivo S3 and hooked it up with Comcast Cable Cards? I have read horror stories and my S3tivo arrives this week. Do I go into Auburn office and ask for 2 CC's or do I need to make an appt with comcast? I would like to pick up the cards on my own if that is possible..

Thanks,

Keith

I figured this question would be ok in this Comcast Seattle thread as I bought this Tivo HD S3 to work with my Comcast Service...

the guide calls for nfl network replays and all we get are the inhd logo for hours


Yeah, this pissed me off. I wanted to record the Hawks/Cowboys game on NFL Replay because my DVR screwed up recording it live.

Interesting article - apparently starting this July 1, Comcast will no longer be able to offer the "integrated" set-top boxes we currently have. Comcast had asked for a delay, but the FCC overruled them yesterday. All new set-top boxes will have to use either a Cablecard or some type of standardized downloadable security module - something that puts Comcast boxes & 3rd-part boxes on a even footing:

http://arstechnica.com/news.ars/post/20070111-8599.html

I bet Comcast's support for Cablecards gets a lot better when this happens :)

I'm watching KOMO news right now, and the audio seems wrong. Way too much of it is coming from the rear channels. Is anyone else seeing that, or is something wrong with my system?

has anyone else been having problems with KOMO-HD over unencrypted QAM (channel 82-4) ? My picture has a ton of "glotches all over the screen with audio cutting in and out". Sometimes the picture blanks. I was thinking maybe it was signal strength, but nothing has changed with my setup and I haven't had problems since I moved here a year ago.

Would like to hear if it's just me or if everyone else is having this problem too.

has anyone else been having problems with KOMO-HD over unencrypted QAM (channel 82-4) ? My picture has a ton of "glotches all over the screen with audio cutting in and out". Sometimes the picture blanks. I was thinking maybe it was signal strength, but nothing has changed with my setup and I haven't had problems since I moved here a year ago.

Would like to hear if it's just me or if everyone else is having this problem too.

errr and by "glotches" i mean "glitches"

has anyone else been having problems with KOMO-HD over unencrypted QAM (channel 82-4) ? My picture has a ton of "glotches all over the screen with audio cutting in and out". Sometimes the picture blanks. I was thinking maybe it was signal strength, but nothing has changed with my setup and I haven't had problems since I moved here a year ago.

Would like to hear if it's just me or if everyone else is having this problem too.

I get KOMO on QAM fine.

I'm watching KOMO news right now, and the audio seems wrong. Way too much of it is coming from the rear channels. Is anyone else seeing that, or is something wrong with my system?
I've been watching on Comcast 104 and hear the same thing. They switched to ABC at 5:30 and the (mono) audio was fine. Back to local and back to audio problems.

Ugly Betty was in SD for the beginning of the show last night too. Lots of KOMO problems yesterday...

I'm trying to get QAM tunning to work on Seattle Comcast, using Mac and the Miglia MiniTV HD hardware and EyeTV software. I can get ATSC tunning without problem to most of the local stations, but over my limited cable subscription, which per posts on this thread should support a myriad of channels, i get very little. When doing the "auto-tune" with the software to the digital QAM frequencies the results come back with a couple of hundred stations, all of them in the 100+ range. I can't get the device to see the 70-90 channels where apparently the unencrypted local HD channels live on comcast signal?

Anyone have experience with this configuration?

Does anyone have an explicit list of the actual frequencies that are equivalent to say, channel 80-1? The software has a "manual" mode for finding channels, but it requires some explicit frequency inputs and I don't know where to start there...

Over the air ATSC might be my ticket, but depending on where I put the indoor rabit ears i'm getting different channels, having particular hard time getting 13-1 for fox.

?

Heard Music Choice channels will be encrypted later this month. You will need to have a digital package (Enhanced cable or higher, and a set top box or cable card) to receive, so no more music for basic or limited only. The FM stations will still be available either way.

I'm trying to get QAM tunning to work on Seattle Comcast, using Mac and the Miglia MiniTV HD hardware and EyeTV software. I can get ATSC tunning without problem to most of the local stations, but over my limited cable subscription, which per posts on this thread should support a myriad of channels, i get very little. When doing the "auto-tune" with the software to the digital QAM frequencies the results come back with a couple of hundred stations, all of them in the 100+ range. I can't get the device to see the 70-90 channels where apparently the unencrypted local HD channels live on comcast signal?

Anyone have experience with this configuration?

Does anyone have an explicit list of the actual frequencies that are equivalent to say, channel 80-1? The software has a "manual" mode for finding channels, but it requires some explicit frequency inputs and I don't know where to start there...

Over the air ATSC might be my ticket, but depending on where I put the indoor rabit ears i'm getting different channels, having particular hard time getting 13-1 for fox.

?
I posted my QAM mapping a page or two back, in an attachment.

I'm trying to get QAM tunning to work on Seattle Comcast, using Mac and the Miglia MiniTV HD hardware and EyeTV software. I can get ATSC tunning without problem to most of the local stations, but over my limited cable subscription, which per posts on this thread should support a myriad of channels, i get very little. When doing the "auto-tune" with the software to the digital QAM frequencies the results come back with a couple of hundred stations, all of them in the 100+ range. I can't get the device to see the 70-90 channels where apparently the unencrypted local HD channels live on comcast signal?

Anyone have experience with this configuration?

Does anyone have an explicit list of the actual frequencies that are equivalent to say, channel 80-1? The software has a "manual" mode for finding channels, but it requires some explicit frequency inputs and I don't know where to start there...

Over the air ATSC might be my ticket, but depending on where I put the indoor rabit ears i'm getting different channels, having particular hard time getting 13-1 for fox.

?

As mentioned, the channel assignments have been posted recently (a few times within the past month or two).

Don't expect much of use other than the HD locals and NW Cable News.

Hi everyone,

I'm on Limited Basic Cable - Seattle Comcast and I'm in Woodinville, WA.
I'm not able to catch the signal for KMYQDT (110) or KMYQDT The Tube (116) with my ATSC tuner box. All the rest of the channels are working fine.

From earlier posts on this thread, I read that these channels should be found at 96-1 and 96-2 respectively. Unfortunately, I'm picking 0% signal at 96, even with an additional signal amplifier. Do I miss something?

Are you receiving a good signal for KMYQDT? On what channel? I assume I should receive it on my Limited Basic - but I'm not sure anymore.

Thanks for your help.

I don't get 110 or 116 via QAM either, at least not last I scanned in December.

Via ATSC (are you using QAM or ATSC? the channel numbers you sent are QAM, but you said ATSC) the channels are 22.1 and 22.2

I don't get 110 or 116 via QAM either, at least not last I scanned in December.

Via ATSC (are you using QAM or ATSC? the channel numbers you sent are QAM, but you said ATSC) the channels are 22.1 and 22.2

Sorry, I'm new to these terms - I'm using QAM.

Are we supposed to get these channels with Basic Cable? Should I complain to Comcast about poor reception? I don't get the fact that the signal is simply non-existent instead of just poor.

I use the 3416 rather than QAM, but I've also had problems with 110 and 116, and have been able to get them only by tightening the cable connector. They're 64 QAM rather than 256, but I don't know if that has anything to do with it.

Sorry, I'm new to these terms - I'm using QAM.

Are we supposed to get these channels with Basic Cable? Should I complain to Comcast about poor reception? I don't get the fact that the signal is simply non-existent instead of just poor.
Actually you mentioned you are receiving "Limited Basic Cable" which might be your problem right there. There may be a filter on the line. With full basic cable (limited cuts out at around Channel 30 if I remember correctly, ESPN, and does not pick up again until 74) you would get all the unencrypted QAM channels too, unless I misunderstood something.

Actually you mentioned you are receiving "Limited Basic Cable" which might be your problem right there. There may be a filter on the line. With full basic cable (limited cuts out at around Channel 30 if I remember correctly, ESPN, and does not pick up again until 74) you would get all the unencrypted QAM channels too, unless I misunderstood something.

Indeed, I am receiving the Limited Basic Service. But I was going with these 2 assumptions:
1. Comcast is supposed to send unencrypted HD feeds for HDTV broadcast stations
2. KMYQ is a local broadcast station
Thus I should receive KMYQ in HD (channel 110). Am I correct in my assumptions? Thanks for your replies.

When I had Comcast just for internet (no cable TV service), I found I could get all of the channels in the QAM list, so I doubt that it's because you have limited basic. I didn't know about QAM when I had limited basic so I can't be 100% sure.

Indeed, I am receiving the Limited Basic Service. But I was going with these 2 assumptions:
1. Comcast is supposed to send unencrypted HD feeds for HDTV broadcast stations
2. KMYQ is a local broadcast station
Thus I should receive KMYQ in HD (channel 110). Am I correct in my assumptions? Thanks for your replies.
Actually the QAM channel for KMYQ might be 110, I am accessing the unencrypted channels through a Samsung DTB-H260F set top box and my channels show up at 81.2...YMMV.

The main QAM channels that I get on limited cable here are:

ABC KOMO 4-1 (TV remaps, not sure what the real channel # is)
FOX KCPQ 13-1 (remap)
CBS KIRO 86-2
NBC KING 83-1
??? KONG 83-2
PBS KCTS 9-5 (remap)
MYQ KMYQ 96-1
CW KSTW 11-1 (remap)

What's with KIRO? I'm in Edmonds, trying to watch Colts-Pats game on 86-2, which has been KIRO-HD in the past but now has no programming. What's going on?

Bob

A friend just asked me why they are not getting the local HD channels. She has a VIZIO (she claims is HD) and is using a cable box connected via Coax. I have never used a Comcast cable box, and could give her only general advice. I told her try (1) using HDMI cable, and (2) check the output on cable box . . . maybe it's set for 1080i, when her TV only supports 720P (or maybe the TV is not HD). Are there other possibile solutions? Please let me know.

You don't need an HD TV to get the local HD channels, but your cable box does need to have an HD tuner. What is the model number of the cable box she has?

A friend just asked me why they are not getting the local HD channels. She has a VIZIO (she claims is HD) and is using a cable box connected via Coax. I have never used a Comcast cable box, and could give her only general advice. I told her try (1) using HDMI cable, and (2) check the output on cable box . . . maybe it's set for 1080i, when her TV only supports 720P (or maybe the TV is not HD). Are there other possibile solutions? Please let me know.
Does she know to look for Comcast channels 104-115???

My sister in law in Kent called last night to see if I knew where some of her HDTV channels had moved to (in the Comcast native QAM lineup). She is using a Samsung 451 external QAM HD tuner.

I told her to rescan to see if she could find them. I did not hear back from her, so I don't know the outcome.

Does she know to look for Comcast channels 104-115???

I told her to look for these channels. She says she gets sound but no picture. I had assumed this meant her cable box was HD compatable (and there is a setup issue). I asked her to get me her cable box number. She won't be able to do such until tonight.

Sounds like she doesn't have an HD cable box. When I had a DCT-2000 there was audio but no video on HD channels.

A friend just asked me why they are not getting the local HD channels. She has a VIZIO (she claims is HD) and is using a cable box connected via Coax. I have never used a Comcast cable box, and could give her only general advice. I told her try (1) using HDMI cable, and (2) check the output on cable box . . . maybe it's set for 1080i, when her TV only supports 720P (or maybe the TV is not HD). Are there other possibile solutions? Please let me know.
If she is using a set top box from Comcast, a coax connection from the box to the set will not carry HD. You have to use component or DVI or HDMI from the box to the TV to get HD.

Or, you can skip the box altogether and plug the digital cable directly into the set, provided it has a QAM tuner.

If the set is HD, it won't matter whether the output of the box is 1080i or 720p or something else. The set will convert the signal to its native resolution. That's a requirement for any commercially available set.

...You have to use component or DVI or HDMI from the box to the TV to get HD...

Any output from the tuner of an HD box (even s-video or composite) will provide the HD channel picture to a VCR or any TV. It won't be HD without using the proper output to an HD TV, but you will be able to see the video.

It looks like KBCB (channel 14 / QAM80.10 - International channel) just bit the dust. :( It's now rebroadcasting ShopNBC. Their website also confirms it (www.kbcbtv.com), but has no more information otherwise.

I know this may not have a lot of interest here, especially that their image quality was awful, but it was the only international channel that was available on the limited package (the only other one that I know of, AZN - channel 70, is blocked by the filter) and my visiting in-laws will sorely miss it.

Anybody has any information about what happened in this case? I always feel it's a shame when a diversity channel is being pulled off and replaced by yet another all-day-commercial one.

-eric

It looks like KBCB (channel 14 / QAM80.10 - International channel) just bit the dust. :( It's now rebroadcasting ShopNBC. Their website also confirms it (www.kbcbtv.com), but has no more information otherwise.

I know this may not have a lot of interest here, especially that their image quality was awful, but it was the only international channel that was available on the limited package (the only other one that I know of, AZN - channel 70, is blocked by the filter) and my visiting in-laws will sorely miss it.

Anybody has any information about what happened in this case? I always feel it's a shame when a diversity channel is being pulled off and replaced by yet another all-day-commercial one.

-eric
If KBCB's demise means that Comcast gets to remove one more analog station from its line-up, creating space for two more HDTV channels, I'm a happy guy.

It looks like KBCB (channel 14 / QAM80.10 - International channel) just bit the dust. :( It's now rebroadcasting ShopNBC. Their website also confirms it (www.kbcbtv.com), but has no more information otherwise.

I know this may not have a lot of interest here, especially that their image quality was awful, but it was the only international channel that was available on the limited package (the only other one that I know of, AZN - channel 70, is blocked by the filter) and my visiting in-laws will sorely miss it.

Anybody has any information about what happened in this case? I always feel it's a shame when a diversity channel is being pulled off and replaced by yet another all-day-commercial one.

-eric

Time to spring for a bigger package. How much is the int'l package?

If KBCB's demise means that Comcast gets to remove one more analog station from its line-up, creating space for two more HDTV channels, I'm a happy guy.

Same here -- but not if it means just replacing it with something called ShopNBC which still uses the bandwidth.

Same here -- but not if it means just replacing it with something called ShopNBC which still uses the bandwidth.

Did ShopNBC move from another channel? Or is it new? The original post says that it is being "rebroadcasted." I deleted all of the shopping channels, so I don't have a clue.

Did ShopNBC move from another channel? Or is it new? The original post says that it is being "rebroadcasted." I deleted all of the shopping channels, so I don't have a clue.

I don't see ShopNBC in the list of channels, so I think "rebroadcasted" just refers to the source of the junky programming that KBCB now broadcasts, and not a duplication of a channel we're already suffering with.

A friend just asked me why they are not getting the local HD channels. She has a VIZIO (she claims is HD) and is using a cable box connected via Coax. I have never used a Comcast cable box, and could give her only general advice. I told her try (1) using HDMI cable, and (2) check the output on cable box . . . maybe it's set for 1080i, when her TV only supports 720P (or maybe the TV is not HD). Are there other possibile solutions? Please let me know.

I have a Vizio GV42l. It has built-in QAM and ATSC tuners. When I plug my coax directly into it, I get several digital stations, but none of the HD channels. I'm on basic cable, not limited. Anybody know if this is a problem with the Vizio?

It looks like KBCB (channel 14 / QAM80.10 - International channel) just bit the dust. :( It's now rebroadcasting ShopNBC. Their website also confirms it (www.kbcbtv.com), but has no more information otherwise.

I know this may not have a lot of interest here, especially that their image quality was awful, but it was the only international channel that was available on the limited package (the only other one that I know of, AZN - channel 70, is blocked by the filter) and my visiting in-laws will sorely miss it.

Anybody has any information about what happened in this case? I always feel it's a shame when a diversity channel is being pulled off and replaced by yet another all-day-commercial one.

-eric
Looks like Music Choice is history too!

Looks like Music Choice is history too!

It's still there for me. They said they were changing the packages it was included in, so perhaps yours lost it.

It's still there for me. They said they were changing the packages it was included in, so perhaps yours lost it.
Meant: for those of us accessing it through unencrypted QAM channels.

I have done a few scans with my HTPC QAM card and seem to get all the HD locals except for KOMO. Does anyone know where it is (unmapped channel#)? Even better would be the specifics on the frequency that I could dial in.

Also, is there a CURRENT QAM list floating around?

-Thanks!

Meant: for those of us accessing it through unencrypted QAM channels.

They must've encrypted them when they changed the package access.

I have done a few scans with my HTPC QAM card and seem to get all the HD locals except for KOMO. Does anyone know where it is (unmapped channel#)? Even better would be the specifics on the frequency that I could dial in.

Also, is there a CURRENT QAM list floating around?

-Thanks!

Here's a posting of a recent QAM list:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9375715#post9375715

I don't have QAM, but a friend who does says he can no longer find KIRO-HD. He last saw it on 86.2 -- anyone know where it is now? (He'd like to find it before the Super Bowl!)

Here's a posting of a recent QAM list:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9375715#post9375715

I don't have QAM, but a friend who does says he can no longer find KIRO-HD. He last saw it on 86.2 -- anyone know where it is now? (He'd like to find it before the Super Bowl!)
Its still there..watching Letterman right now through a Samsung set top box!

I have a Vizio GV42l. It has built-in QAM and ATSC tuners. When I plug my coax directly into it, I get several digital stations, but none of the HD channels. I'm on basic cable, not limited. Anybody know if this is a problem with the Vizio?

Do you use a cable box?

I have a Vizio GV42l. It has built-in QAM and ATSC tuners. When I plug my coax directly into it, I get several digital stations, but none of the HD channels. I'm on basic cable, not limited. Anybody know if this is a problem with the Vizio?

I just bought a 32" Spectre Komodo with QAM/ATSC tuners as well and I can't seem to get anything beyond channels 2-13. My old Samsung 1080i crt was able to at least get 2-99.
Any ideas?
Basic cable here as well.

I just bought a 32" Spectre Komodo with QAM/ATSC tuners as well and I can't seem to get anything beyond channels 2-13. My old Samsung 1080i crt was able to at least get 2-99.
Any ideas?
Basic cable here as well.

Nm. It looks I just needed to switch from 'Air' to 'Cable' for the coax.

Do you use a cable box?

No cable box. Doesn't comcast have to send local broadcast stations unscrambled? Maybe I've got it all wrong. One thing to add, I do remember at least one channel where I heard sound but no picture. I had switched from wide to normal viewing mode while skipping through the digital channels. Would that affect it?

No cable box. Doesn't comcast have to send local broadcast stations unscrambled? Maybe I've got it all wrong. One thing to add, I do remember at least one channel where I heard sound but no picture. I had switched from wide to normal viewing mode while skipping through the digital channels. Would that affect it?

Yes, Comcast does broadcast local HD channels unscrabbled. Sorry I can't otherwise be of any help. I originally wrote about a friend's VIZIO TV that was connected through a cable box via coax. Our problems may be a quirk with VIZIO TVs . . . or merely a setup issue. I advised my friend to try an HDMI cable, which isn't an option for you w/out a cable box. I'll go play with her setup if this doesn't work. Unfortunately, I have no other experience with VIZIO TVs.

Anyone happen to know where I can check the list of FSN games that will be shown in HD on INHD (664 for me)? Do we get to see any Husky hoops in HD this year?

Anyone happen to know where I can check the list of FSN games that will be shown in HD on INHD (664 for me)? Do we get to see any Husky hoops in HD this year?

The URL is posted several pages back. Last I saw, it was only updated through the end of November with Sonics games. I stopped checking there when FSN did not update the schedules in December.

There have already been a few Husky games on 664. Sometime the HD games are delayed, so you have to check back.

Heard Music Choice channels will be encrypted later this month. You will need to have a digital package (Enhanced cable or higher, and a set top box or cable card) to receive, so no more music for basic or limited only. The FM stations will still be available either way.

I think that this just happened: my LG, this afternoon, suddenly reports everything on 118 and 119 "Audio Only/Scrambled"

Here's an update of the QAM list with the updates I'd originally posted yesterday rolled-up:

* Added over-the-air channel numbers to local stations
* Changed affiliations for minor local stations (KBCB, KHCV, KUNS)
* Removed DMX and Music Choice stations
* Cleaned up readability

Yes, Comcast does broadcast local HD channels unscrabbled. Sorry I can't otherwise be of any help. I originally wrote about a friend's VIZIO TV that was connected through a cable box via coax. Our problems may be a quirk with VIZIO TVs . . . or merely a setup issue. I advised my friend to try an HDMI cable, which isn't an option for you w/out a cable box. I'll go play with her setup if this doesn't work. Unfortunately, I have no other experience with VIZIO TVs.

I found the HD channels. WOW. I wasn't too happy with this tv until I turned on KCTS HD.
So, one more question: I only have 1 cable outlet, and that's got a splitter going to my Tivo and internet. Can I just add another splitter to the tivo end (i.e. splitter at outlet going to modem and tv, then splitter at tv for HD and tivo) or is that going to degrade the signal too much? I know, just go buy a splitter, but if someone knows I can save a couple bucks.

I've used plenty of cheap three or four way splitters and they worked fine, provided you use good screw in cables and none of the cables are bad.

It looks like KBCB (channel 14 / QAM80.10 - International channel) just bit the dust. :( It's now rebroadcasting ShopNBC. Their website also confirms it (www.kbcbtv.com), but has no more information otherwise.

I know this may not have a lot of interest here, especially that their image quality was awful, but it was the only international channel that was available on the limited package (the only other one that I know of, AZN - channel 70, is blocked by the filter) and my visiting in-laws will sorely miss it.

Anybody has any information about what happened in this case? I always feel it's a shame when a diversity channel is being pulled off and replaced by yet another all-day-commercial one.

-eric
I don't have any inside information, but this big shuffle all started with the loss of Comcast analog channel 98 (Univision). Univision went shopping and ended up with KWOG (OTA analog 51, Comcast analog 28 or 29), which had been a ShopNBC affiliate. They changed their callsign to KUNS (UNivision Seattle) last year in preparation. This sent ShopNBC shopping, which ended up on KBCB (OTA analog 26, Comcast analog 14). WorldVision was left standing when the music ended.

As I recall, something similar happened when Comcast lost analog channel 96 (Jewelry Television). This moved to KHCV (OTA digital 45-1, Comcast analog channel 15). Can't remember what was on KHCV before that. I seem to recall it was Shop@Home but I could be wrong.

When we lost Comcast analog channel 74, it just moved to the digital package.

On a HDTV reception forum, all of this is good news because it means more digital channels. But if you are paying for analog cable only, you have lost 3 channels in the past six months.

I found the HD channels. WOW. I wasn't too happy with this tv until I turned on KCTS HD.
So, one more question: I only have 1 cable outlet, and that's got a splitter going to my Tivo and internet. Can I just add another splitter to the tivo end (i.e. splitter at outlet going to modem and tv, then splitter at tv for HD and tivo) or is that going to degrade the signal too much? I know, just go buy a splitter, but if someone knows I can save a couple bucks.

It never hurts to give it a try.

Does anyone have a list of the comcast QAM frequencies (at least for the locals)? Not looking for just the channel numbers, but the transports.

Does anyone have a list of the comcast QAM frequencies (at least for the locals)? Not looking for just the channel numbers, but the transports.
The channel numbers are in this post:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9595306&&#post9595306

The corresponding frequencies are no different than the standard cable (analog) frequencies for those transport channels. They are available all over the internet. Here is an example:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/North_American_cable_television_frequencies

For their own cable boxes, Comcast maps these "QAM" transport subchannel numbers to whatever logical channel numbers Comcast chooses, such as the 100 series for HD channels.

The Sonics game isn't in HD tonight for me.

The Sonics game isn't in HD tonight for me.

I started watching around 8 and the game is in HD

i just looked at the comcast "email"/ messages they sent to my box after not looking it for some time now and it appears that number of changes to the lineup are coming Feb 20.

anyone knows the details of the full set of changes?

i just looked at the comcast "email"/ messages they sent to my box after not looking it for some time now and it appears that number of changes to the lineup are coming Feb 20.

anyone knows the details of the full set of changes?

Hopefully, new HD channels, less analog channels, and a continued cycle of this pattern.

The new Comcast channels according to my messages are separate digital channels for Video on Demand by subject such as FearNet and Classified Ads (for cars/houses/Nigerian bank accounts)
sam

CANAL 52 (603) removed from Dig. Classic; remains on Comcast en Espanol.

Movies-On-Demand (800) direct tune added to that folder in OnDemand.

FEARnet On Demand (166) direct tune added.

SOAPnet (158) added.

Searthlight (888), Automotive (889), NW Living (890), & Real Estate (891) direct tune added.

Adult-On-Demand (846) direct tune added.

Pay-Per-View channels 804-807 removed (this seems to be the only bandwidth gain).

Comcast Seattle need to hurry up and add National Geo and A&E HD.

I hope they save some bandwidth for the SciFi-HD and USA-HD channels that were announced earlier this month.

I hope they save some bandwidth for the SciFi-HD and USA-HD channels that were announced earlier this month.

What? I didn't see the announcement. Was this a Comcast announcement for our Area? Or were these announcement by SciFi and USA of HD availability?

SciFi-HD & USA-HD: I thought that's what UHD was.

See the thread here:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=784284

"USA Network, Sci Fi Channel, TBS, Cartoon Network, CNN and other channels are readying to launch simulcast high-definition networks by the end of the year."

SciFi-HD & USA-HD: I thought that's what UHD was.

There is lots of HD content on those two channels that is not broadcast on UHD, including Eureka, Stargate SG1, Dresden Files, 4400, Dead Zone, and later seasons of Monk.

Also, Battlestar Galactica is aired on UHD many months after the SciFi broadcast.

If you ask my opinion, I would rather have UHD get remade into a SciFi-HD simulcast, commercials and all.

"USA Network, Sci Fi Channel, TBS, Cartoon Network, CNN and other channels are readying to launch simulcast high-definition networks by the end of the year."

I think I can get along fine without most of those, since I don't tend to watch the SD versions.

"USA Network, Sci Fi Channel, TBS, Cartoon Network, CNN and other channels are readying to launch simulcast high-definition networks by the end of the year."

I already see Cartoon Network showing up under HD on demand. This might be good sign for Cartoon Network HD.

CANAL 52 (603) removed from Dig. Classic; remains on Comcast en Espanol.

Movies-On-Demand (800) direct tune added to that folder in OnDemand.

FEARnet On Demand (166) direct tune added.

SOAPnet (158) added.

Searthlight (888), Automotive (889), NW Living (890), & Real Estate (891) direct tune added.

Adult-On-Demand (846) direct tune added.

Pay-Per-View channels 804-807 removed (this seems to be the only bandwidth gain).


what does direct tune means? what is the other type of on demand? trying to figure out if this is really a change or this is just "semantics" or just channels moving around

what does direct tune means? what is the other type of on demand? trying to figure out if this is really a change or this is just "semantics" or just channels moving around

The normal means of accessing the OnDemand material is to use the OnDemand button or channel 1 to go to the OnDemand menu, then wade through that menu until you find what you want. With this change, you will be able to access certain types of OnDemand programs more directly; for example, selecting 891 will take you to the Real Estate menu. It should just supplement the previous method, rather than replace it. Just a shortcut.

If you ask my opinion, I would rather have UHD get remade into a SciFi-HD simulcast, commercials and all.

DING, DING, DING, we have a winner!!! Comcast, are you listening?

There is lots of HD content on those two channels that is not broadcast on UHD, including Eureka, Stargate SG1, Dresden Files, 4400, Dead Zone, and later seasons of Monk.

Also, Battlestar Galactica is aired on UHD many months after the SciFi broadcast.

If you ask my opinion, I would rather have UHD get remade into a SciFi-HD simulcast, commercials and all.

I agree . . . UHD was a bit of a buzz kill. The SciFi channel has better HD content available, though I only watch Battlestar.

The normal means of accessing the OnDemand material is to use the OnDemand button or channel 1 to go to the OnDemand menu, then wade through that menu until you find what you want. With this change, you will be able to access certain types of OnDemand programs more directly; for example, selecting 891 will take you to the Real Estate menu. It should just supplement the previous method, rather than replace it. Just a shortcut.

This Direct Tune would not allow accessing OnDemand programs for us folks using cablecards instead of STB's, would it?

This Direct Tune would not allow accessing OnDemand programs for us folks using cablecards instead of STB's, would it?

I wouldn't think so. You still won't have two-way communication.

This Direct Tune would not allow accessing OnDemand programs for us folks using cablecards instead of STB's, would it?

Seems unlikely because of the menus, but would be nice. At best, I expect we'd have to call in like we do for PPV.

No one here interested in Food TV in HD at all? Kind of surprised.

I definitely am but I've pretty much given up on the idea of having any kind of say-so when it comes to Comcast programming.

Does Food HD actually exist?

I'd like to see Food TV in HD....

I'd love to see Formula 1 in HD, but if SpeedTV ever went HD I'm afraid all we'd get would be NASCAR.

I'd like to see Food TV in HD....
It's out there, Comcast just hasn't added it yet.

My prediction is that comcast will add many hd channels this year to compete with Directv (adding 100 hd channels).

My prediction is that comcast will add many hd channels this year to compete with Directv (adding 100 hd channels).

Yes, they will add all of the home shopping and religious channels in HD to get their count up to a respectable number. sam

Yes, they will add all of the home shopping and religious channels in HD to get their count up to a respectable number. sam

I'm totally looking forward to PopeHD. :D

Guys,

Whats the deal with the white screen on INHD on comcast. I get every other channel but this HD channel. (Is it because of NFL network?)

Guys,

Whats the deal with the white screen on INHD on comcast. I get every other channel but this HD channel. (Is it because of NFL network?)

Looks fine to me (664 -- London Live).

Channels I want to go to HD
Military Channel 274
Speed 33
Spike 57
Comedy Central 60
History Channel 37

My prediction is that comcast will add many hd channels this year to compete with Directv (adding 100 hd channels).

I take my prediction back :mad:

http://www.tvpredictions.com/burke020107.htm

Channels I want to go to HD
Military Channel 274
Speed 33
Spike 57
Comedy Central 60
History Channel 37 What makes me kind of mad is they added the digital Golf HD channel, and yet the vast majority of video on this channel is in fact SD, albeit good quality digital. It bothers me that Comcast pretends like this is a HD station when it actually shows very little HD.

I would like to see CNN or MSNBC in full HD.

What makes me kind of mad is they added the digital Golf HD channel, and yet the vast majority of video on this channel is in fact SD, albeit good quality digital. It bothers me that Comcast pretends like this is a HD station when it actually shows very little HD.

I would like to see CNN or MSNBC in full HD.It also shows very little golf. In the evenings it seems to be some kind of outdoors/hunting channel instead.

That's basically the same with many (most) of these niche channels. Even though they create HD channels, most of the content on these 'HD' channels is SD only. Waste of bandwidth ...

I don't have any inside information, but this big shuffle all started with the loss of Comcast analog channel 98 (Univision). Univision went shopping and ended up with KWOG (OTA analog 51, Comcast analog 28 or 29), which had been a ShopNBC affiliate. They changed their callsign to KUNS (UNivision Seattle) last year in preparation. This sent ShopNBC shopping, which ended up on KBCB (OTA analog 26, Comcast analog 14). WorldVision was left standing when the music ended.

As I recall, something similar happened when Comcast lost analog channel 96 (Jewelry Television). This moved to KHCV (OTA digital 45-1, Comcast analog channel 15). Can't remember what was on KHCV before that. I seem to recall it was Shop@Home but I could be wrong.

When we lost Comcast analog channel 74, it just moved to the digital package.

On a HDTV reception forum, all of this is good news because it means more digital channels. But if you are paying for analog cable only, you have lost 3 channels in the past six months.

Thanks for the details zyland.

One thing that annoys me is that I'm actually getting 2 full simulcast of ShopNBC on QAM right now (80.7 and 80.10), which means that we got no bandwidth from the loss of this channel. One would wonder why NBC would pay for their shopping network to be on 2 separate channels... One would also wonder who is actually watching either of them. :)

-eric

Right now I've got the Sonics game in HD on INHD (664) and ESPNHD (174). Anyone know if this is the same strength on each channel? Which do you think looks better? Certainly Colabro is better on the INHD feed but is ESPNHD better image quality?

Right now I've got the Sonics game in HD on INHD (664) and ESPNHD (174). Anyone know if this is the same strength on each channel? Which do you think looks better? Certainly Colabro is better on the INHD feed but is ESPNHD better image quality?

I agree with you, I'm noticing more blocking on 664 (FOX NW HD), then on ESPNHD 173.

Colabro is a better announcer, but the video is nicer on ESPN HD, so I give the nod to ESPN HD.

Can anyone by chance tell me the address of the Comcast Store in North Seattle, or direct me to a link on the Comcast website?

Are they open on Saturday does anyone know?

I have to change out a couple of CableCARDs.

Right now I've got the Sonics game in HD on INHD (664) and ESPNHD (174). Anyone know if this is the same strength on each channel? Which do you think looks better? Certainly Colabro is better on the INHD feed but is ESPNHD better image quality?

I didn't watch the game, but 720p is generally considered better for sports, which is what ESPNHD broadcasts in (INHD is 1080i). I also find ESPNHD generally has better sound than other HD sports broadcasts.

Can anyone by chance tell me the address of the Comcast Store in North Seattle, or direct me to a link on the Comcast website?

Are they open on Saturday does anyone know?

I have to change out a couple of CableCARDs.

Center Name: Comcast Cable Store North Seattle
Address: 1140 North 94th Street
Seattle WA 98103
Phone Number: 877-824-2288
Hours: Monday thru Friday 8am to 7pm Saturday 9am to 5pm Sunday - CLOSED
Notes: Located in King County. This is a full service location. Payments accepted posted to account immediately equipment issued or exchanged, purchase cable supplies, pick up rate cards, channel lineup card
Services Available
Payments Accepted for Line Of Business: Digital Telephony Service, Comcast High Speed Internet, Video
Payment Types Accepted: Check, MasterCard, Visa, Cash, Discover, American Express
Self Installation Kits Available: Comcast High Speed Internet, High Definition Converter, Digital Converter, Digital Video Recorder
Returned Equipment Accepted: Modem, Digital Video Recorder, CableCard, High Definition Converter, Analog Converter, Digital Converter
Equipment Exchanged: Digital Video Recorder, Modem, Digital Converter, High Definition Converter

Center Name: Comcast Cable Store North Seattle
Address: 1140 North 94th Street
Seattle WA 98103
Phone Number: 877-824-2288
Hours: Monday thru Friday 8am to 7pm Saturday 9am to 5pm Sunday - CLOSED
Notes: Located in King County. This is a full service location. Payments accepted posted to account immediately equipment issued or exchanged, purchase cable supplies, pick up rate cards, channel lineup card
Services Available
Payments Accepted for Line Of Business: Digital Telephony Service, Comcast High Speed Internet, Video
Payment Types Accepted: Check, MasterCard, Visa, Cash, Discover, American Express
Self Installation Kits Available: Comcast High Speed Internet, High Definition Converter, Digital Converter, Digital Video Recorder
Returned Equipment Accepted: Modem, Digital Video Recorder, CableCard, High Definition Converter, Analog Converter, Digital Converter
Equipment Exchanged: Digital Video Recorder, Modem, Digital Converter, High Definition Converter

Thank you!

I just recieved a Miglia TVMiniHd for my mac that I am using with EyeTv. I have basic cable and previosuyl had used a QAM tuner at home wtih pretty good sucess. unfortuantely this tuner seems to pic up all of the channels possible (encrypted and unencreypted) and doesnt seem to list them the way I am used to, ie 86-2 for KURI instead using SOP:SERVICE xxx- which I don't seem to understand. Is this a tuner issue or is this a matter of how comcast is passing othrough the digital signal. I do seem to see a lot more onDemand streams then with my previous tuner.

I just recieved a Miglia TVMiniHd for my mac that I am using with EyeTv. I have basic cable and previosuyl had used a QAM tuner at home wtih pretty good sucess. unfortuantely this tuner seems to pic up all of the channels possible (encrypted and unencreypted) and doesnt seem to list them the way I am used to, ie 86-2 for KURI instead using SOP:SERVICE xxx- which I don't seem to understand. Is this a tuner issue or is this a matter of how comcast is passing othrough the digital signal. I do seem to see a lot more onDemand streams then with my previous tuner.

You are probably describing a software problem for the SOP:Service identity and as long as you can make a consistent list, it should be ok. The On Demand increase probably indicates a high frequency problem with the old tuner or more politely, better sensitivity for the new one.

Does that gadget really work? Can I hook the output of my Comcast provided cable to this thing and record/watch HDTV on my Mac? sam

You are probably describing a software problem for the SOP:Service identity and as long as you can make a consistent list, it should be ok. The On Demand increase probably indicates a high frequency problem with the old tuner or more politely, better sensitivity for the new one.

Does that gadget really work? Can I hook the output of my Comcast provided cable to this thing and record/watch HDTV on my Mac? sam

The gadget does seem to work... First i hooked it up to my G4 which did not seem to have enough juice to display the HD feeds but now it's hooked up to my intel iMac and is doing a great job. There's a lot of noise (ie the tuner comes up with 200+ channels) but I haved weeded it out into the HighDef channels and the ondemand feeds. So i get KIRO, KOMO, KING, KCTS, KONG and whatever the Fox and WB channels are. It's been good so far- right now though my wife is very happy with the tuner because she is watching someone's Ondemand feed of The Devil Wears Prada. I ordered it from Amazon where it was like $110 I think. I am thinking about getting a macMini which would have enough horsepower to decode the HD streams-> my wife isnt crazy about the iMAc in the living room next to our 32" LCD.

chris

Any news on when Comcast in Seattle will start shipping an updated HD DVR? Last I checked they still had the Moto boxes with 120GB hard drives. I heard about potential upgrades in the form of a Panasonic-made HD DVR with a larger hard drive, and/or a new Moto box.

I'm debating what to do when my contract with DirecTV runs up this summer. I've got an HR10 (HD Tivo), but am not interested in shelling out $650 + $15/month to Tivo or getting DirecTV's horrible in-house HD DVR (the HR20). Comcast seems like a "good enough" option except I don't think I could survive with only 120GB of hard drive space.

Any thoughts/news?

Any news on when Comcast in Seattle will start shipping an updated HD DVR? Last I checked they still had the Moto boxes with 120GB hard drives. I heard about potential upgrades in the form of a Panasonic-made HD DVR with a larger hard drive, and/or a new Moto box.

I'm debating what to do when my contract with DirecTV runs up this summer. I've got an HR10 (HD Tivo), but am not interested in shelling out $650 + $15/month to Tivo or getting DirecTV's horrible in-house HD DVR (the HR20). Comcast seems like a "good enough" option except I don't think I could survive with only 120GB of hard drive space.

Any thoughts/news?

Comcast made a big announcement at CES about a new box. I don't think they gave a time frame.

...
I don't think I could survive with only 120GB of hard drive space.


I got a 3416 (160GB) from the Redmond office.

I'm debating what to do when my contract with DirecTV runs up this summer. I've got an HR10 (HD Tivo), but am not interested in shelling out $650 + $15/month to Tivo or getting DirecTV's horrible in-house HD DVR (the HR20). Comcast seems like a "good enough" option except I don't think I could survive with only 120GB of hard drive space.

Any thoughts/news?

The decision I made, back before Tivo was coming out with their first HD Tivo (the DirecTV one), was to go with a dedicated HTPC. You definitely have to be a good PC troubleshooter to set up such a thing, and it is expensive initially, but there are also some savings. For the past 18 months or so I've only paid $2.95 a month for TV programming ($12.95 limited basic less the $10.00 discount for also having Cable Internet--which is my only reasonable high speed option here, and something I need for business use).

Anyway, I'm using SageTV and the HD Homerun to record two channels of HD locals off of Comcast, and a third tuner for OTA locals. I'm probably roughly at the break even point now on cost, compared to if I'd kept DirecTV, and that assumes I had not bought any HD DirecTV programming or device, DVR or otherwise.

The decision I made, back before Tivo was coming out with their first HD Tivo (the DirecTV one), was to go with a dedicated HTPC. You definitely have to be a good PC troubleshooter to set up such a thing, and it is expensive initially, but there are also some savings. For the past 18 months or so I've only paid $2.95 a month for TV programming ($12.95 limited basic less the $10.00 discount for also having Cable Internet--which is my only reasonable high speed option here, and something I need for business use).

Anyway, I'm using SageTV and the HD Homerun to record two channels of HD locals off of Comcast, and a third tuner for OTA locals. I'm probably roughly at the break even point now on cost, compared to if I'd kept DirecTV, and that assumes I had not bought any HD DirecTV programming or device, DVR or otherwise.

I can second this thought.

I have discovered that my DCT-6400 (and my DCT-3412, incidentally, which I may take back soon) allows me to record via firewire on almost every channel (I think MTV, MTV Jams, the digital music stations and a couple other ones don't let me, but I never watch those channels anyway) including the premium ones. And in true HD Quality. As earlier stated, it takes some effort, but I have my HTPC setup to record and time shift the firewire output, in addition to the ATSC and QAM tuners that I have. It only saves me the price of an extra DVR, but I did it because I was sick of the DVR rebooting and messing up recordings. My HTPC stays stable. If you have the time and an inclination, an HTPC can be better functionally and save you money. Just something to look into. I've used GBPVR and Snapstream and read about many other ones. They all have their pluses and minuses. I currently use MythTV. I keep around my DCT-3412 for fear that one day the DCT-6400 won't let me do what I'm doing, and I watch a couple shows on the premium channels that I can't record OTA or with QAM. So I'm actually using it as a backup recording device.

Comcast made a big announcement at CES about a new box. I don't think they gave a time frame.

I think this may be the one you are referring to:

http://www.zatznotfunny.com/2007-02/motorola-readies-cablecard-compliant-hd-dvr/

Too bad its only got 160G of space, but maybe they'll finally let people use SATA for expansion.

Any news on when Comcast in Seattle will start shipping an updated HD DVR? Last I checked they still had the Moto boxes with 120GB hard drives. I heard about potential upgrades in the form of a Panasonic-made HD DVR with a larger hard drive, and/or a new Moto box.

the Redmond office hands out Moto 3416 boxes these days - it has a 160GB drive. Not much bigger, but should give you 30% more storage space (20 hours of HD vs 15). I assume the Seattle office is doing the same...

I think this may be the one you are referring to:

http://www.zatznotfunny.com/2007-02/motorola-readies-cablecard-compliant-hd-dvr/

Too bad its only got 160G of space, but maybe they'll finally let people use SATA for expansion.

That's great!! Makes it looks like the new box will be available in July, when the FCC is requiring all cable company to use cablecards on all newly released cableboxes. That is, unless Comcast gets a stay upon appeal from the FCC ruling. I'm assuming Comcast will try.

In any case, since this box is only 160G the point is moot. I do think it is cool that it streams video between similar boxes via coax, but am not sure how this is different from Tivo To Go, which has not been approved by cablelabs for use in the S3.

...I was sick of the DVR rebooting and messing up recordings. My HTPC stays stable. ...

If your 3412 is rebooting, and you have the 12.35 firmware, you can call Comcast and ask them to revert your box to 12.31 to fix that. I don't know why they don't do that automatically.

That's great!! Makes it looks like the new box will be available in July, when the FCC is requiring all cable company to use cablecards on all newly released cableboxes. That is, unless Comcast gets a stay upon appeal from the FCC ruling. I'm assuming Comcast will try.

In any case, since this box is only 160G the point is moot. I do think it is cool that it streams video between similar boxes via coax, but am not sure how this is different from Tivo To Go, which has not been approved by cablelabs for use in the S3.
Streaming between boxes is more like the Tivo feature known as "MRV" (multi-room viewing), which has also not been approved for the S3. TivoToGo allows you to transfer content from the Tivo to a PC (like a laptop) and then take it with you (i.e. on an airplane).

MRV is great, especially if these new DVRs only have 160GB hard drives. You can spread your recordings across the DVRs (rather than duplicating them) and then just stream between the two. It's like having a 320GB hard drive, in that way. It also means you don't have to duplicate recordings just to be able to watch them throughout your house.

160gb is still sadly small, and it's definitely something I'll weigh when choosing my next provider.

If your 3412 is rebooting, and you have the 12.35 firmware, you can call Comcast and ask them to revert your box to 12.31 to fix that. I don't know why they don't do that automatically.

Better yet, why don't they fix their firmware?

That would be nice, but since none of us has any control over that...

I appear to get all of the HD channels except MTVHD (660) and UHD (661).

Comcast rebooted/reset/etc. remotely to no avail.

A tech came out today and dinked around for over an hour. His conclusion: the cables within my wall were not passing the signal in sufficient strength (which wasn't something he could do anything about).

DHD (663) and TNTHD (662) come in perfect!

I connected a cable bypassing the inwall cables and still no MTVHD or UHD; so, I'm not buying his explaination.

I'm in Seattle (Wallingford). Anybody experience anything like this? Any advice as to my next course of action. By the way, it's the same with the downstairs TV.

Thanks.

I appear to get all of the HD channels except MTVHD (660) and UHD (661).

Comcast rebooted/reset/etc. remotely to no avail.

A tech came out today and dinked around for over an hour. His conclusion: the cables within my wall were not passing the signal in sufficient strength (which wasn't something he could do anything about).

DHD (663) and TNTHD (662) come in perfect!

I connected a cable bypassing the inwall cables and still no MTVHD or UHD; so, I'm not buying his explaination.

I'm in Seattle (Wallingford). Anybody experience anything like this? Any advice as to my next course of action. By the way, it's the same with the downstairs TV.

Thanks.

I live in Wallingford and especially right after UHD and MTVHD first appeared, they would sometimes be hard to tune in. The other HD stations right next to them worked fine. Sometimes turning on and off my box would get them. Sometimes repeatedly shifting from TNTHD back down to MTVHD would tune them in. I haven't noticed this quite as much recently.

Just remember, if Comcast can blame something on the customer, they will. Anyway, the gist is, I don't think it is a problem with wiring in the wall.

I've noticed the same "tuning in" problem on UHD, MHD and HD on-demand movies. With UHD and MHD I often need to switch back and forth between one of them and TNT-HD. Once one of them comes on, both are on. If I just leave my DVR tuned to one of them, they will usually come on after a period of time between 10 seconds and a few minutes. I've noticed, however, that if I set the DVR to record on one of these stations, it always works!?

With HD on demand movies, I often need to select the movie several times before it will play. I often get a brief moment of sound and then need to try again. I can always eventually get the movie but often need up to 10 consecutive tries.

Anyone else having this problem?

Any ideas?

Thanks for the replies. I spent some more time 'dinking' around with my setup tonight.

I connected the Moto 3412 STB with HDMI instead of component. I then started turning the components off and on in different order. If I turn the TV and STB off, leaving the AVR on, and then turn the TV on, waiting until the HDMI input is indicated on the screen before turning the STB on, I get MTVHD or UHD! I can change channels within Comcast and still have both stations; but, if I switch to Directv and then back, I get the black screen. It must be some kind of HDMI/HDCP 'handshake' problem.

I was going to have the tech out again tomorrow; but, I'm going to cancel. I think this problem's above their pay grade. I'm going to try changing the sequence and timing that the Harmony 1000 uses to turn the components on and see what that does. The Denon AVR does the HDMI switching. Maybe it's part of the problem? I have a Geffen switch coming tomorrow. I see it it makes any difference.

Anybody have a Moto 3416 STB?

Hi all,
Just got my HD DVR. We have the digital plus package and ESPN2 HD channel 174 has the block saying I need a subscription to view the channel. ESPN channel 173 works fine. Is this an error or how do I get espn2 HD to work? I would like to watch the USA soccer match tomorrow on ESPN2.

Thanks.

Hi all,
Just got my HD DVR. We have the digital plus package and ESPN2 HD channel 174 has the block saying I need a subscription to view the channel. ESPN channel 173 works fine. Is this an error or how do I get espn2 HD to work? I would like to watch the USA soccer match tomorrow on ESPN2.

Thanks.

Yes it is an error. 174 is included in your package. I noticed that when I first got my box the channel list was missing a few and also had some I should not have gotten. After 24 hours it was all OK. So wait a day and then start calling Comcast if 174 is still missing.

I have two Moto 3412 STB's and I have had good luck with them overall. However I have had glitches with some recordings. Similiar to other reports here.

My question is for a remote code for an Akai LCT3201AD TV/DVD combo. I have looked everywhere and to no avail. Of course i have found some but none work.

I have used the 3in1 remote with my Westy37W2 and JVC RX-D702 and STB with no problems. Of course for the JVC receivers multiple inputs etc I have to use that remote but for everyday use with comcast it turns on and it is allready set for that input. I used the HDMI output from the STB and the Dual HDMI inputs in the JVC (one from Panny DVD the other from STB) and use HDMI output from JVC to the Westy TV. Worked flawlessly the first time and I have had no problems since connecting it this way.

I have never tried to copy programs off of the DVR yet. The instructions show how to copy to a VCR. Can I do this to the Panny DVD recorder? and can I do this using digital connections instead of the composite ones shown? I thought that the HDMI cable would make connections simpler and better but it seems that even when the HDMI cables are used to make the primary connections between equipments, you still have to connect component cables to make recordings between receiver and DVD etc. Can anybody clarify this for me.

My old equipment before this was only S-video capable so this is a quantum leap for me. I jumped from S-Video to HDMI and I hoped that this one cable to each piece would replace the multiple ones to Rec In and Out etc...

Thanks

Philip

I have two Moto 3412 STB's and I have had good luck with them overall. However I have had glitches with some recordings. Similiar to other reports here.

My question is for a remote code for an Akai LCT3201AD TV/DVD combo. I have looked everywhere and to no avail. Of course i have found some but none work.

I have used the 3in1 remote with my Westy37W2 and JVC RX-D702 and STB with no problems. Of course for the JVC receivers multiple inputs etc I have to use that remote but for everyday use with comcast it turns on and it is allready set for that input. I used the HDMI output from the STB and the Dual HDMI inputs in the JVC (one from Panny DVD the other from STB) and use HDMI output from JVC to the Westy TV. Worked flawlessly the first time and I have had no problems since connecting it this way.

I have never tried to copy programs off of the DVR yet. The instructions show how to copy to a VCR. Can I do this to the Panny DVD recorder? and can I do this using digital connections instead of the composite ones shown? I thought that the HDMI cable would make connections simpler and better but it seems that even when the HDMI cables are used to make the primary connections between equipments, you still have to connect component cables to make recordings between receiver and DVD etc. Can anybody clarify this for me.

My old equipment before this was only S-video capable so this is a quantum leap for me. I jumped from S-Video to HDMI and I hoped that this one cable to each piece would replace the multiple ones to Rec In and Out etc...

Thanks

Philip

You can capture stuff off of the DVR via Firewire to a PC, Mac, or to a D-VHS deck.

Anyone have any idea when the Switched Digital Video is going to rollout in Seattle? I know there has been lots of talk about comcast doing this and wanted a heads up where Seattle stands on the list.

Anyone have any idea when the Switched Digital Video is going to rollout in Seattle? I know there has been lots of talk about comcast doing this and wanted a heads up where Seattle stands on the list.

There is a lot of information out there about Comcast testing SVD in several markets. I have not seen anything about Seattle being one of those markets. Hopefully, Comcast won't try it here, as it seems that there are an above average amount of people buying flat panels and Tivos that utilize Cablecards. These people will freak if SDV gets implemented.

Personally, I think Comcast is upset because it lost the FCC ruling wrt its boxes, and the SDV scare is a ploy by Comcast to make people think twice about investing in non-Comcast tuners. In brief, I don't think Comcast will ever have a widespread deployment of SDV.

I also live in Wallingford and I have trouble getting UHD and MTVHD even though all the other channels come in great.

Has anyone heard of any new HD channels coming out soon?

You can capture stuff off of the DVR via Firewire to a PC, Mac, or to a D-VHS deck.


Thanks for the heads up. I will try the firewire transfer.

Philip

i know this question gets asked a bazillion times, but here goes

just picked up a new tosh 32" lcd with built in QAM tuner. no cablecard slot, but i've read the QAM tuner is pretty good. i'll be able to get local HD channels on this without a cable box or antenna right? i am a HD digital cable subscriber. for how long?

what channels will i get?

i know this question gets asked a bazillion times, but here goes

just picked up a new tosh 32" lcd with built in QAM tuner. no cablecard slot, but i've read the QAM tuner is pretty good. i'll be able to get local HD channels on this without a cable box or antenna right? i am a HD digital cable subscriber. for how long?

what channels will i get?

Your cable provider is required to provide unscrambled access to local HD channels. I believe all of the local network channels broadcast in HD. You likely won't get non-local HD channels without a cablecard because comcast encrypts them.

and that's just fine. i'll be happy with nbc, abc and cbs

thanks for the reply!

There are frequent postings of a list of available Seattle Comcast QAM channels:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9595306&&#post9595306

(Since you already have the TV and the Comcast account, I'm curious as to why you haven't just hooked it up to see what you get.)

thanks a lot wareagle. i did just that tonight, but i had a hard time finding kiro mostly due to programing. this is great. still wish i had a cablecard, but this will do in the bedroom.

thanks again. and thanks to those who are maintaing those lists. those are awesome.

btw, i'm not getting kiro on 86-2, but i think it may be on 86-1.

there are a couple others that are not matching up. i guess this is normal huh and depends on the neighborhood. right?

Well, according to the news, we are one of the many families that will be investing in a new HD television. I feel like such a predictable consumer as we finalized an HD purchase, and will be getting delivery on Saturday. Anyways, we have been comcast subscribers for two years (The dish was unbearably dreadful, especially with all the rain we get here). I have comcast coming out monday to install an HD-DVR, can any one tell me if their set top HD-DVR boxes have HDMI??

The 3412 & 3416 both have HDMI. The latest 6412 (phase III) also has HDMI. You're most likely to get a 3412 or 3416, since Comcast has implemented Analog Digital Simulcast here, and no longer needs the analog tuners of the 6412.

Thank you! Boy, didn't realize these things were so glitchy, I may regret this as much as I did the dish when it snowed!

Thank you! Boy, didn't realize these things were so glitchy, I may regret this as much as I did the dish when it snowed!

Well, you don't have to get a DVR -- or even a cable box, if your TV has a QAM tuner -- but I find the DVR (currently 3416) benefits far outweigh the glitches.

...and the SDV scare is a ploy by Comcast to make people think twice about investing in non-Comcast tuners. In brief, I don't think Comcast will ever have a widespread deployment of SDV.

An uninformed statement if I've ever heard one.
Not everything is a conspiracy.
SDV is widely regarded as being essential to bandwidth management and maintaining a channel line-up strategy that expands HD choices.
Here in Seattle, they hope to move all digital programming to SDV in the second half of 2007.

An uninformed statement if I've ever heard one.
Not everything is a conspiracy.
SDV is widely regarded as being essential to bandwidth management and maintaining a channel line-up strategy that expands HD choices.
Here in Seattle, they hope to move all digital programming to SDV in the second half of 2007.

I agree with your view of SDV, but do you have a reference for the Seattle schedule? If so, is it closer to July 1 or December 31?

The quote comes straight from someone in engineering at Comcast, although it was definitely not the kind of quote that was intended to be published and attributed to him on the Internet. Their goal is to switch to SDV in the 2nd half of 2007. I take it that there are variables still unknown that require quite a bit of flexibility in the timetable. Also, they are famous for not staying on their own schedule with these types of things -- which is why I think they don't make public announcements until they're actually ready to do something -- remember there were several setbacks with the digital simulacast launches as well, but they did eventually happen. What I can say with complete certainty is that SDV is 100% a "go" and it's coming sooner rather than later. They're doing it so they can add channels that customers are demanding, mostly HD, so it blows my mind that people on this board are crying about it. It just goes to show that you can NEVER make everyone happy.

It's definitely interesting. SDV is the right thing to do if Comcast wants to stay competitive in the bandwidth battle vs. DirecTV. On the other hand - it could be painful for people with simple QAM tuners. I don't know if local HD stations would be put into the switched "pool" of channels - but just imagine trying to tune these stations, if they could be dynamically assigned to a different frequency every day! I also don't know how it might affect Cablecard users - anyone know?

Here is my GUESS regarding SDV deployment.

To avoid mass changeout or additions of new cable STBs for folks who don't need them (nor have them) today, the basic (maybe expanded basic) analog channels and corresponding OTA-equivalent digital channels will stay right where they are in the early phases of rollout.

I think the SDV conversion will apply, at first, to just the digital and premium channels that already require a STB.

One question in my mind is whether the current Motorola boxes can be enhanced to support SDV tuning or not. I don't recall reading anything that would indicate one way or the other.

Here is my GUESS regarding SDV deployment.

To avoid mass changeout or additions of new cable STBs for folks who don't need them (nor have them) today, the basic (maybe expanded basic) analog channels and corresponding OTA-equivalent digital channels will stay right where they are in the early phases of rollout.

I think the SDV conversion will apply, at first, to just the digital and premium channels that already require a STB.

One question in my mind is whether the current Motorola boxes can be enhanced to support SDV tuning or not. I don't recall reading anything that would indicate one way or the other.My (somewhat fuzzy) understanding of SDV is that it works just like OnDemand does now - except that the streams are live, not stored on a big video server. So in theory any STB that does OnDemand would work for SDV... in theory.

Example - you tune your STB to channel XYZ. If no one else on your neighborhood fiber-optic node is currently watching channel XYZ, it allocates an empty frequency from the SDV pool, and starts transmitting the live XYZ stream on that frequency. Subsequent neighbors who tune to that channel will tune to the same frequency/stream as you. But if no one in your neighborhood is watching XYZ - then it's not taking up any bandwidth.

At least that's my layman's understanding of it.... I could be all wrong, of course.

I would think the entire change to SDV might be even a bit more complicated than just throwing a switch, and not for technology reasons: most carriage contracts specify delivery method in some detail, i.e. analog or digital from satellite, locally received or received via HITS, analog or digital delivered to the home, etc.

It may well be the case that, unless Comcast has already been inserting SDV language into its carriage agreements, that this could happen gradually, as contracts are renewed with each provider. I also imagine that some programmers -- especially the local broadcasters -- would likely never consent to delivery via SDV, since it could potentially erode part of their audience.

I would think that the objective for SDV would be "transparent to the user."

The viewer should not care about the transmission method as long as they tune in the channel on their STB and it appears as it used to before SDV.

I understand the concepts of IPTV and SDV, but I have no personal knowledge of the details of the SDV architecture being deployed. I am just speculating here.

I would think that the objective for SDV would be "transparent to the user."

The viewer should not care about the transmission method as long as they tune in the channel on their STB and it appears as it used to before SDV.

I understand the concepts of IPTV and SDV, but I have no personal knowledge of the details of the SDV architecture being deployed. I am just speculating here.

I'm not so sure it will be "transparent" to people like me who have bought non-Comcast DVRs (Tivo S3).

I'm not so sure it will be "transparent" to people like me who have bought non-Comcast DVRs (Tivo S3).

You can bet that it won't be, considering the S3 is unidirectional. But then, they'll probably only put the channels with least demand there -- like all the HD ones.

I'm not so sure it will be "transparent" to people like me who have bought non-Comcast DVRs (Tivo S3).
I agree with you. They may be "looking out" for their customers with Comcast STBs, but they are not likely looking out for those like you with superior STB/DVRs that do not come from Comcast.

But, I do think the "high-usage" channels, including the local HDTV channels, might be some of the last to convert to SDV. I expect to see a mix of "standard cable" and SDV during a fairly lengthy transition period. I guess time will tell.

I would think that the objective for SDV would be "transparent to the user."

The viewer should not care about the transmission method as long as they tune in the channel on their STB and it appears as it used to before SDV.

I understand the concepts of IPTV and SDV, but I have no personal RDCknowledge of the details of the SDV architecture being deployed. I am just speculating here.
In order to tune an SDV enabled channel (similar to OnDemand today), an STB/DVR
tells the headend which program it wants via a Reverse Data Channel (RDC).

The TiVo Series 3 and other DCR (Digital Cable Ready, e.g. CableCARD) HDTV's do not have an
modulator built into the unit and hence do not support two-way interactive features, such as
IPG (Interactive Program Guide), Video OnDemand, spontaneous PPV (may call in a request)
and upcoming SDV.....and NO, they can't simply be upgraded for two-way operation....

SDV IMPACT: depends on which individual channels your local cable operator decides to put on SDV.
Cablevision in NYC just announced plans to use it strictly for new International channels...
although more could follow.
TWC-SoCarolina currently uses SDV for Sports, Premium, Hispanic AND THE OPTIONAL HD tiers.

More extensive use can be expected to make room for higher speed cable modems (DOCSIS 3.0 channel
bonding uses 3 vice 1 QAM carrier), thousands of VOD programs and (hopefully) a bunch more HD channels.
However, the most frequently viewed channels would presumably not be switched, so as more and more users
adopt HD, it becomes even less likely that Local-HD, ESPN-HD, HBO-HD, etc. would be on SDV....

But it's up the operator....and with hardly any DCR HDTV owners electing to use CableCARD,
they could severely limit what (competing) TiVo Series 3 owners can view....

Here are some SDV overviews:
http://www.cedmagazine.com/article/CA6375650.html?industryid=43679
http://www.bigbandnet.com/technology/tech_whitepaper_statswb.php
There is a lot more under "white papers"...

We at KSTW have the Star Trek series, however, there is no plan by the syndicator, Paramount, to distribute it to us in HD.

RDiotte
CE, KSTW

Thanks for showing Star Trek, the new improved remasters look wonderful.

I appear to get all of the HD channels except MTVHD (660) and UHD (661).

Comcast rebooted/reset/etc. remotely to no avail.

A tech came out today and dinked around for over an hour. His conclusion: the cables within my wall were not passing the signal in sufficient strength (which wasn't something he could do anything about).

DHD (663) and TNTHD (662) come in perfect!

I connected a cable bypassing the inwall cables and still no MTVHD or UHD; so, I'm not buying his explaination.

I'm in Seattle (Wallingford). Anybody experience anything like this? Any advice as to my next course of action. By the way, it's the same with the downstairs TV.

Thanks.

Well I used to have no trouble tuning all the 66x channels but then all of a sudden tonight I can't get 660 or 661. Just a black screen. Is this a system-wide problem or just something with individual boxes?

Edit: just checked again and now 660 comes in after a long pause but 661 is still blank. WTF?

Has anyone else noticed a crackling noise on KOMO HD? I recently got a new HDTV and have noticed a continuous crackling/popping noise on KOMO HD 5.1. It's happening right now on the NBA telecast and I noticed it on "Lost" the other night too. I Haven't noticed this on any other local HD channels.

I'm trying to determine if there could be something wrong with my TV or if it's a problem with KOMO/Comcast.

KOMO-HD has had some bad sound problems. A few weeks ago I noticed a period of about 5 minutes when it sounded like they had a playing card flapping in the spokes of their bike! I've also noted periods at the beginning of shows with no sound, and other times when the main (speech) channel was missing.

We were promised FSN-HD. What we get is inconsistent at best. For instance, today I have been looking forward to watching the Huskies play Stanford in HD on FSN-HD (INHD.) No dice. Instead we get a color test pattern. Typical. This isn't the first time this has happened. Funny how they seem to always turn on the feed for a lousy Sonics team, but when it comes to local college teams, they drop the ball. The program guide shows the Huskies as being on.

Comcast sucks big time.

And while I'm at it, UHD and MTHD are still inconsistent. Sometimes my box will tune them in, sometimes it won't. Other customers in the Seattle Wallingford area have complained of the same problem.

Comcast's rollout of extra HD channels is borderline terrible.

Yes, I am seeing skipping in sound, and videao stuttering on almost all the local hd stations, via the hd motorolla box, and upstairs, lost 4, 10, 11 via QAM tuner, weak signal....Wonder if this is due to all the changes they are planning on making on the 20th...

Has anyone else noticed a crackling noise on KOMO HD? I recently got a new HDTV and have noticed a continuous crackling/popping noise on KOMO HD 5.1. It's happening right now on the NBA telecast and I noticed it on "Lost" the other night too. I Haven't noticed this on any other local HD channels.

I'm trying to determine if there could be something wrong with my TV or if it's a problem with KOMO/Comcast.

Yep...I've been hearing it for awhile on almost everything on KOMO...it's just quiet enough to disappear into the background every now and then, but when I think it's finally gone, I hear it again...annoying, to say the least!

Also, has anyone else been incredibly unsatisfied with the quality on KIRO? I just finished watching the Grammys and was astounded at the pixelated, macroblocked mess that they are calling HD. I noticed the same thing during the Superbowl. I've been reading over in the HDTV programming thread, and it seems like live events on CBS are normally considered to be some of the best, viewed through other affiliates around the country. I guess the inclusion of the subchannel (showing SeaTac traffic!) is causing a big bandwidth squeeze. Does anyone have any contact info for KIRO to complain?

We were promised FSN-HD. What we get is inconsistent at best. For instance, today I have been looking forward to watching the Huskies play Stanford in HD on FSN-HD (INHD.) No dice. Instead we get a color test pattern. Typical. This isn't the first time this has happened. Funny how they seem to always turn on the feed for a lousy Sonics team, but when it comes to local college teams, they drop the ball. The program guide shows the Huskies as being on.

Comcast sucks big time.
According to FSN's web site (http://msn.foxsports.com/name/HD#FSNwest) , they weren't showing the game in HD, which would explain why Comcast didn't interupt INHD to show the game. The fact is FSN-NW does not have much HD content (seven Sonics games in February), which is presumably why they don't warrant a full-time channel.

Comcast has never shown the Huskies on iNHD like they do the sonics. If you live outside Seattle you get to see it but they block it in Seattle just as they did yesterday...I do not think their is a local agreement with the Huskies as their is with the sonics...

Comcast has never shown the Huskies on iNHD like they do the sonics. If you live outside Seattle you get to see it but they block it in Seattle just as they did yesterday...I do not think their is a local agreement with the Huskies as their is with the sonics...

Husky home games aren't produced in HD unless they get picked up by ESPN or something. When they play UCLA at Pauley Pavillion (the only Pac-10 venue I've seen in HD on FSN), it's shown in HD on 664.

I wouldn't hold my breath for more or for any football games. The Pac-10 (well, Pac-8 since UCLA and USC get great coverage) has the worst television deal in major college sports.

The KOMO audio problems happen OTA as well. Not sure why it happens, but periodically they just mess up the HD audio transmission. Luckily it seems to be less frequent lately.

Hi guys, I just moved to Seattle from Cincinnati, OH yesterday. I'm staying at my friend's house where I'm trying to pick up OTA channels for my HTPC. I guess due to the terrain and proximity at my house in Cincinnati, I was able to pick up the 4 network stations using a silver sensor inside my house just fine.

My friend's house is in Troussachs in Sammamish, WA. I'm not having much luck at all picking up any of the 4 network stations via OTA via my silver sensor. I was able to pick up some 5-6 PBS stations, but that's it. Does anyone know if there is ANY way that I can get OTA HD?

p.s. We live on the 2nd floor of a condo, and I don't think they'll let us put up an antenna. I was thinking maybe putting one of those outdoor antennas in the attic, but not sure if that would work either. Any help appreciated. Thanks guys.

what did antennaweb.org/checkhd.com say about your address? I find that (at least for me) the website was dead-on when it came to OTA HD pickups. BTW this is probably an OT for this thread.... :)
--
Sang

Crap. You're right. Let me post in Seattle, WA OTA thread. Sorry guys.