Originally posted by Greyhawk68
Today I was trying to set up a season pass to a show, and when I clicked the more options button, the box crashed and re-booted. Not unheard of, but what did happen is that I lost ALL my guide data. Everything was gone, and it's now reloading...

Also, every once in awhile the receiver just stops acknowledging the OK/Enter button. Powering off and back on resolves it, but that seemed strange too. I'm going to try new batteries just in case.
My 6412 is occasionally slow to acknowledge the OK/ENTER button, but I've never had to power off to fix it. I think the longest delay has been a few seconds. It was a MUCH bigger issue with the 6208. I don't think your problems are common, and if they don't clear up, you'd better call for a replacement box.


Lastly, I did get a remote that has the On Demand button on it (that doesn't work yet), but it doesn't have the swap and PIP buttons at the bottom. Is this the remote they are giving out now, or should I clamor for the one WITH those buttons. It's not a huge deal as I mapped swap to another button, I was just wondering.

I'm lucky and got a remote with all the buttons when they swapped out boxes. I used to have the remote you have now. It seems like the remote you get is a matter of chance. If you do end up getting your 6412 replaced, ask the installer if he has one with the swap and pip buttons. Maybe you'll get lucky! :-))

Actually, I have those buttons programmed into my Pronto, so I don't use the Comcast remote. If somebody cares about these buttons and wants to swap remotes, I guess I wouldn't have a problem with that!

That sucks..

bears not in HD today.

Originally posted by acaoacao
That sucks..

bears not in HD today.


Ya whats up with CBS anyway?

They can't do every game in hd yet, they don't have enough trucks yet. This game looked to be a blwoout on paper, which came true. I doubt they're regretting not doing this one in hd.

Originally posted by acaoacao
That sucks..

bears not in HD today.

Maybe that disaster was better not in HD.

Anyone have times off in the guide for inHD or inHD2 (173/174)? my guide shows everything starting 1 hour before the show actually comes on. so it shows peter gabriel as a 8:30 am start when it actually begins at 9:30 am. any thoughts on how to fix it or will tv guide catch the error and then the guide updates automatically?

Originally posted by timmo
Sigh...I can't believe the rotten luck I've had regarding the installation charges. They were absolutely adamant about charging me $64 for 2 boxes. I will complain to the Billing department when I get the bill, though I'm not hopeful. I think the cable gods have it in for me for some reason.

I simply told them the $32 was too much and I wouldn't pay over $10. They immediately countered with $16 and that was the deal (that I knew I would get.) This was 1 week ago by phone in Chicago.

Originally posted by SaabCaptain
Anyone have times off in the guide for inHD or inHD2 (173/174)? my guide shows everything starting 1 hour before the show actually comes on. so it shows peter gabriel as a 8:30 am start when it actually begins at 9:30 am. any thoughts on how to fix it or will tv guide catch the error and then the guide updates automatically?

No but I constantly have this problem with WTTW.

Does the 6412 always turn the box off when it is done recording? I was thinking about getting one of these installed but I use a Replay now and it needs the box on all the time so that might not do me any good.

If you leave the box on all the time, it stays on all the time.

I hope we don't get a message from Comcast for every job opening they have! I noticed my messasge light on this morning and got excited for a second.

Originally posted by Drifty
I hope we don't get a message from Comcast for every job opening they have! I noticed my messasge light on this morning and got excited for a second.

I too was annoyed by Comcast's SPAM!

When you see the message light ON, how do you check the messages?

Originally posted by sixty2hm84
When you see the message light ON, how do you check the messages?

Go into the main menu and select "Messages".

HDTV on demand section is available again in Schaumburg areao. There is a movies section with only one IMAX movie (Ski to max) right now. I went into it expecting to see how much it costs, but it seems to be free. There is no indication of price. I tried playing it and it played without any warnings. PQ seemed OK (nothing spectacular) and it was 5.1

Anyone have any info on if or when any of the local Chicago stations will start doing HD news etc.?

Originally posted by vj9999
HDTV on demand section is available again in Schaumburg areao. There is a movies section with only one IMAX movie (Ski to max) right now. I went into it expecting to see how much it costs, but it seems to be free. There is no indication of price. I tried playing it and it played without any warnings. PQ seemed OK (nothing spectacular) and it was 5.1

It's available here too, but there's a charge for all the movies. Most of them are $5.99. Don't think I'm going to be watching any of them at that price.

I tried looking at a couple of things on regular VOD, and it seems all screwed up right now. Didn't spend much time with it, but when I tried to view a couple of things, it seemed like I jumped to the middle of some program I didn't recognize. The controls acted like it was a VOD program, but it certainly wasn't what I selected.

Originally posted by FrankS
Anyone have any info on if or when any of the local Chicago stations will start doing HD news etc.?

well, here's what little i know as someone "in the business". wttw, where i work, does occasional hd production on full scale productions such as soundstage in its north side studios and on remote. we did the chicago by el in high def and also a special by the cso in high def. newer productions are done in digital format, standard definition in 16 by 9. we are preparing a new travel program on chicago's nw suburbs that premieres on tuesday, nov 30. it will be presented in letterbox on the standard channel 11 and in later december, presented on the digital channel in wide screen digital clarity. artbeat chicago is done in widescreen and presented the same way. image union is done like this also in standard def but in wide screen when the program and films we acquire are available in that format.

now, what about chicago tonight and other studio shows (like pledge........)? well, in order to do the show in hight def, we would need hi def studio cameras, video switchers, character generators, editing equipment, field cameras and other items for the high def transition. we can do shows like soundstage and chicago by el in high def because we have fly away packages to work in high def. in those single or multi camera environments. to change an entire studio and its associated equipment over, is a financial investment we are not able to take at this time. we are set up to make the change to a standard def wide screen environment right now, but it would mean letterbox images for the much higher (and higher pledging) analog audience, which they don't care for. we can "get away" with letterbox program segments within the show, but not the entire show.

there are very few stations (only one or two that i know of) that do actual high definition newscasts (in raliegh/durham and seattle, i think). they do high def studio cameras and high def field reports. it's too expensive right now (and will continue to be for a long time). the sony hdv system is inexpensive, but too new to tell (and the cameras are "prosumer" at best). so the next step will be upconverted standard def wide screen newscast like we do for artbeat and episodes of image union, then slowly replacing this generation of equipment with high def. this will take a loooooooooooong time.

hope this helps. we'll see what happens. ah, to live in interesting times......

mark anderson
producer/editor wttw chicago

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Guys - sorry but I didnt spend to much time searching for my answer, I tried once or twice and came up broke so I figured I try you here...

My uncle has Comcast. He called and asked for HD and they told him they would have to come out. My uncle is old school and for some reason doesnt think they need to come out so until they can give him a valid reason why they have to, he doesnt want to get HD. Can you guys help me out here? Exactally why would they need to come out? Do they have to change the cableing out or what? Cant they just drop off the digital receiver and be done with it?

Any info would be appreciated.

Originally posted by FJ Merlin
My uncle has Comcast. He called and asked for HD and they told him they would have to come out. My uncle is old school and for some reason doesnt think they need to come out so until they can give him a valid reason why they have to, he doesnt want to get HD. Can you guys help me out here? Exactally why would they need to come out? Do they have to change the cableing out or what? Cant they just drop off the digital receiver and be done with it?

Any info would be appreciated.

You are correct that the only major change is a change out of the digital box to one that is HDTV capable from his current box. Your uncle in Chicago will have the choice of either a $5 increase in monthly fee with a HDTV cable box or a $10 increase in monthly fee for a 2 tuner HDTV cable box with DVR (ie. "Tivo like") functionality. Comcast so far is fairly insistent that despite how "easy" it is to install a new box they must do it themselves. They attempt to charge $32 for this whole installation but by phone if you say "what can you do for me, I want a free install" they will discount the $32 to $16.

Anyone else have any skipping/stuttering/audio dropouts while viewing an HD recording on a 6412? The 6208 did it A LOT, but the 6412 seems to be doing it quite a bit too. It seems to happen quite a bit especially after FF or pausing.

Originally posted by nevermind
Anyone else have any skipping/stuttering/audio dropouts while viewing an HD recording on a 6412? The 6208 did it A LOT, but the 6412 seems to be doing it quite a bit too. It seems to happen quite a bit especially after FF or pausing.

No skipping or dropouts at all for me for almost a month now.


tim

Thanks Tim - I think I'll give them a call tomorrow. It's getting extremely annoying.

I haven't followed the "how to's" about transferring recorded material from the DVR's to a PC because I really haven't had much use for it. But I've recently decided that I'd like to try and copy some stuff to my PC.

Is it as simple as connecting a firewire cable from the DVR to a firewire port on my PC? And if it is that simple, is there a specific firewire card I should pick up for my PC because it currently does not have a firewire port.

Thanks for recommendations or information.

Tom

(...I need about 35ft of firewire cable to make it to my PC from the DVR...is there any chance I can make my own firewire cable out of Cat5e?)

It looks like there's some content being added to this section. However, I'm a bit puzzled. There are two listings for The Passion of the Christ, one that you must buy for $3.99 and the other one is free. The free version looks pretty good (it's OAR), but why put two online? For that matter, how do they determine free vs. fee?

I just watched Envy in HD on Demand. IT was free as well. It was filmed in 1.85:1 so it was almost OAR.

I think they are still testing it probably so they have 2 listings. Free version will have "watch" icon and ppv one has "buy" icon. $3.99 is not that bad compared to regular ppv price (actually I believe it is priced the same).

Another thing I noticed. I just checked my bill online. I have digital silver before the latest pric increase and repackaging and am paying $64.99 . There is a notice that prices will go up by $5 starting next billing period. They never seize to amaze me with the ability to raise the prices and get away with it.

Here is the excerpt.
"PRICE CHANGES-We will be adjusting certain residential customer prices as outlined below.Comcast periodically reviews and adjusts prices to ensure they best reflect the value of the products and services our customers receive.

EFFECTIVE WITH YOUR NEXT BILL STATEMENT, these monthly prices will change: Basic Service goes from $13.99 to $14.99, Expanded Basic from $30.00 to $32.00 and Standard Cable (which includes Basic Service & Expanded Basic) goes from $43.99 to $46.99.

Packages containing Standard Cable will also change: Digital Silver from $64.99 to $69.99; Digital Gold from $74.99 to $79.99; Digital Platinum from $86.99 to $93.99. We remain committed to providing the highest level of service and best possible value for your money. Thank you for choosing Comcast. "

I guess I will still be saving few dollars over the current ppackage prices (since with old digital silver includes some digital chanels that are now $5 exte with tier programming), but still so much for having benefits of having a "grandfathered" package (if grandfathered term applies in this case).

Wow, price increases..!!! that sucks!

digital silver's listed on the comcast website as being $66.99 btw

That's why I said that I have old digital silver which is 64.99, but includes some digital channels that can now only be received if you subscribe to on of the tiers for $5 extra. Also current platinum is 79.99, but it only includes 2 premium channels whereas old platinum was few dollars more, but it included all the premium channels.

Anyone having trouble getting INHD1 and INHD2 this morning? I haven't been able to get either one.

Both are fine here. It could be related to Intesat Americas 7 satellite dying this morning. I believe they switched them over to another satellite, but maybe your local office didn't start picking them up from the new satellite.

Thanks for the reply. They are back up here as well now.

I've just decided to finally make the switch from the Tivo. The 2 tuners on the 6412 and the improved menu have put me over the edge.

The only problem is that Comcast can't come out on a Saturday/Sunday until mid January and unfortunately, I can't rationalize taking a half-day off work just to get a new PVR.

Has anyone successfully been able to bring their box in and switch it out at a Comcast office, rather than having a tech come out? If so, who did you talk to in order to convince them?

Originally posted by SaabCaptain
You are correct that the only major change is a change out of the digital box to one that is HDTV capable from his current box. Your uncle in Chicago will have the choice of either a $5 increase in monthly fee with a HDTV cable box or a $10 increase in monthly fee for a 2 tuner HDTV cable box with DVR (ie. "Tivo like") functionality. Comcast so far is fairly insistent that despite how "easy" it is to install a new box they must do it themselves. They attempt to charge $32 for this whole installation but by phone if you say "what can you do for me, I want a free install" they will discount the $32 to $16.

Thanks for the info Saab - Ill let him know. But either way I dont think he is going to get it, so stubborn, cant convince him that his Hitachi LCD just isnt being used correclty until he hooks up HD. He just wont listen.
Was anyone able to have them drop the box off and do the install themselves?

Originally posted by NickChicago
I've just decided to finally make the switch from the Tivo. The 2 tuners on the 6412 and the improved menu have put me over the edge.

The only problem is that Comcast can't come out on a Saturday/Sunday until mid January and unfortunately, I can't rationalize taking a half-day off work just to get a new PVR.

Has anyone successfully been able to bring their box in and switch it out at a Comcast office, rather than having a tech come out? If so, who did you talk to in order to convince them?

No, they are quite firm. They will charge you for an installation fee as well even though all they need to do and unplug the old one and plug in the new one.

Forgive me for not reading all 128 pages but can someone point me in the direction of a Comcast Gripe list? There are several "fixable" issues I'd like to gripe about since I'm stuck using their service. The biggest one of all is the differences in volume levels between playing an on demand show and the blaring volume on the main menu. My three year old gets scared to death because we go from the mousy quiet of her on demand shows and when they are over BAM! THE MAIN MENU IS SCREAMING AT YOU! I have to come running from other parts of the house to come turn it down. I'm so pissed off and there is nothing that I can do about it besides change services.

No, they are quite firm. They will charge you for an installation fee as well even though all they need to do and unplug the old one and plug in the new one.
One of the reasons for this is to hopefully prevent the : Rent multiple boxes and share the cost syndrome. I know a few D-TV people that are doing this. You know...I rent 2 and give one to the neighbor who orders minimal service then just take the 2 bills and split the total cost. Can you say rent 3 and share?

HMM.. THAT IS GREAT IDEA!

However, each person would need a analog package.

Originally posted by RayB
Anyone having trouble getting INHD1 and INHD2 this morning? I haven't been able to get either one.

Yup, I got the same problem that morning. But everything was back to normal afternoon.

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I have a question for anyone in or around the Elk Grove area.. my vod hasnt been working for a few days (it did work before tho)..and I just keep getting box resets when I call support...(seems thats all they can do, and they always wanna send someone out)..anyone else having these problems?...this is on the dual tuner box..
and another thing, they tried to charge me the 15/15 dollars, one for the box and one for changing/switching services...I told them about me not changing services..just a box replacement, she immediatley took off the $15 for that...It can be done.... let me know?

QUESTION 1 - Is anyone using a CableCARD?

QUESTION 2 - If so, are you getting "channel indicators," if your TV is capable of that? (i.e. channel name, program information, etc.)

--

Comcast installed my CableCARD yesterday. It's funny that Comcast requires a technician to perform the install. The process is simply inserting the PCMCIA/PC Card size adapter into your TV system, and then calling them to report the UUID (i.e. unique network address). That's all.

So far I'm not getting any "channel indicators," or what my Pioneer TV calls "banner information." Before ordering the CableCARD, Comast person #1 told me I should get that info with the card. The installer (person #2) said I would get it about an hour later, after it downloads. Called Comcast (person #3) and they resent a signal to the card and said wait an hour. Nothing. Called again (person #4), sent another signal, nothing. Called last night and person #5 was adamant that the CableCARD doesn't provide that info. Called Comcast again today (person #6), who spent much time checking with who knows who, and said person #5 was wrong. They are sending out one of their "top" HD people in a couple of days.

I was previously using Comcast Digital Cable, and decided to go the CableCARD route as everyone indicates that the signal should be better than using a box. I don't use PPV, so no loss there. Their onscreen guide is somewhat slow, so as long as I am supposedly to be able to get channel indicator information, I decided to go with the card.

Minus this current problem, the broacast signals are absolutely superb. I had the Digital Cable box hooked up to the TV for a week. When I switched to the card, I noticed a signficant improvement on virtually all channels. For example, Discovery Wings was somewhat fuzzy with the box, and is now crystal clear.

I noticed that WLS's HD channel broadcasts everything automatically stretched, which seems sort of convenient (i.e. I don't have to hit the screen size button to stretch it). It is barely noticeable, but there are tiny vertical black bars on the left and right.

WLS's website doesn't have any HD information. So what are they doing differently than NBC 5, etc.?

At first glance, I thought ABC 7 News was in HD, as that was what I first turned on, but then obviously noticed it was simply being broacast automatically stretched, including commericals.

WLS decided to stretch all their local programming to avoid burn-in problems on users' widescreen/HD sets. To be honest, I prefer WBBM's approach where they use grey bars on the left and right sides for non-HD programming (the stretched/zoomed aspect ratio bothers me).

Originally posted by FSugino
WLS decided to stretch all their local programming to avoid burn-in problems on users' widescreen/HD sets. To be honest, I prefer WBBM's approach where they use grey bars on the left and right sides for non-HD programming (the stretched/zoomed aspect ratio bothers me).

I noticed ESPN HD puts some type of partial logo on the left and right, instead of bars....

I've been streching/zooming everything and am already accustomed to it....

Sorry if this has been posted, I couldn't find it.

Is there a way to remove channels from the guide so that it only shows the channels you're interested in (eg removing all the premiums you don't pay for or something like ESPN Classic)?

Originally posted by NickChicago
Sorry if this has been posted, I couldn't find it.

Is there a way to remove channels from the guide so that it only shows the channels you're interested in (eg removing all the premiums you don't pay for or something like ESPN Classic)?

Unfortunately, there isn't a way to do it. I like to remove the listing of Spice, Playboytv and stuff but I do not think there is a way to do it.

Originally posted by acaoacao
Unfortunately, there isn't a way to do it. I like to remove the listing of Spice, Playboytv and stuff but I do not think there is a way to do it.

While you can't remove the channels from the guide, you can go into the parentel settings/lock code menu, and change all adult channels to read "Adult Programming" rather than the actual names of the adult programs.

Marc

Having "Adult Programming" as a listing is sometimes.. just as bad as the title itself.

I wish they just blank it out or something

Originally posted by Tim Barron
QUESTION 1 - Is anyone using a CableCARD?

QUESTION 2 - If so, are you getting "channel indicators," if your TV is capable of that? (i.e. channel name, program information, etc.)

i have been considering getting CableCard installed sometime on my Mits DLP. i have heard that it is currently for free. is this the case with you?
it is my understanding that the TV supplies the program information. CableCard does not have two-way capability (yet) to allow you to receive the guide from the head-end. i am not exactly sure how the TV gets the guide though... maybe it is encoded somewhere within the cable signal?

Another question- Have people found DVI to be substantially better than component? I was just playing around with it and component just seemed to be more vivid. Might just be my display or cable though.

Originally posted by memnoch i have been considering getting CableCard installed sometime on my Mits DLP. i have heard that it is currently for free. is this the case with you?
it is my understanding that the TV supplies the program information. CableCard does not have two-way capability (yet) to allow you to receive the guide from the head-end. i am not exactly sure how the TV gets the guide though... maybe it is encoded somewhere within the cable signal?

I guess you could say that it is free, per se. They give either a cable card or a set-top box - your choice.

You are correct that the CableCARD is one-way only. With Comcast CableCARD, you lose their TV Guide onscreen guide, PPV, and OnDemand content.

Though my Pioneer TV supports it (confirmed with Pioneer) and Comcast is saying I should get it, I am not yet getting the channel identifiers / banner information. My TV is capable of getting channel name, program name, program time, program description, and rating. So when flipping, you'll know what channel you are on, and what program is on. Comcast was not able to tell me which the send, though, after speaking to over 5 different people. After complaining, one of Comcast's HDTV "top guns" is coming out tomorrow, so I will let you know what I find out.

I did notice a SIGNIFICANT difference in picture quality on almost all channels in going from a regular non-HDTV digital cable box to the CableCARD (on the same TV).

Heres a new twist on my VOD not working. The tech that called me said that VOD will not work with the dual tuner box (in the Elk Grove-Shaumburg area) but will work with the single tuner box...SOMEBODY please prove them wrong!....I cant believe this story at all..so now the tech is coming out to give me a single tuner...we shall see...ANYONE in this area have a dual box that VOD works on in my area?????

FSugino: your in my area...yours working?

Your tech doesn't know what he's talking about. VOD is working fine here in Schaumburg on my 6412. I just checked and watched the first few minutes of a Family Bonds episode on HBO VOD.

One note: I do see that they've once again removed the HDTV offerings. Wonder when they'll finish tweaking/testing the HD stuff? It seemed to work okay last week.

M_Ross124. I'll second what FSugino told you. I haven't had any issues with VOD and 6412 (I am on Schaumburg headend as well).

What problem do you exactly have? Can you get into VOD menu, but can't play anything or you can't even get into VOD menu? Do you get any error messages on the screen with error codes?

Tells me unable to connect to VOD server...the tech just left after installing the 08...vod is working now... He said it was a problem in Elk Grove area...didnt mention Schaumburg at all...they will notify me when they figure it out....maybe a bad box?..I dont know

Originally posted by MakoShark
My three year old gets scared to death because we go from the mousy quiet of her on demand shows and when they are over BAM! THE MAIN MENU IS SCREAMING AT YOU!


Since you guys are on the subject of VOD. Am I the only one expereincing this problem? It's most noticable on Nickelodeon and Nick Jr.

Unfortunately, according to the Comcast reps, VOD is not yet available in the North Lakeview area.

Originally posted by MakoShark
Since you guys are on the subject of VOD. Am I the only one expereincing this problem? It's most noticable on Nickelodeon and Nick Jr.

I especially like it when my 3 year old's show ends and it jumps right to a preview for a Chucky movie. Hey Comcast, how about a blank screen without the blaring volume?

Originally posted by M_Ross124
...ANYONE in this area have a dual box that VOD works on in my area?????

I'm in Buffalo Grove and cannot get VOD with the 6412. I was told it won't be fixed until at least early 2005.

Originally posted by mck024
I especially like it when my 3 year old's show ends and it jumps right to a preview for a Chucky movie. Hey Comcast, how about a blank screen without the blaring volume?

mck04 thank you for the validation. Before I upgraded to the digital package I had the same issue Nick's volume would be turned way down and the cartoon network (one channel up) would be turned way up. I called customer service to complain but only got "I'll pass in on to the technicians" Now that I have digital cable that problm has gone away only to be replaced with this one.

Comcast here's a question for you. Do you think I'd have this problem if I switched to the dish?

VOD is working with the 6412 in Wheeling. I believe we're on the Mt. Prospect system.

tim

Originally posted by timdgibson
VOD is working with the 6412 in Wheeling. I believe we're on the Mt. Prospect system.

tim
We haven't received VOD in Mt Prospect yet. At least not at the far North East end.

Originally posted by HD Rookie
We haven't received VOD in Mt Prospect yet. At least not at the far North East end.

That's weird. I'm almost positive that a couple different techs have told me that we're on Mt. Prospect. Of course these are Comcast employees.

And I feel bad for you guys that don't have VOD and want it; my wife and I rarely use it.


tim

Heres whats happening: (this is on the 6208) VOD is working.. but it told me I couldnt view, had to call Comcast...AND my HD channels were pixelating badly (as it did with the original 08 box)..they got the VOD to work, but the pixelation is just too much..SO..tommorrow its back to the 6214 and no VOD (until late January they tell me)..and all this coming with a price increase?..oh..I asked about why I couldnt get Discovery Wings and they said for 13 bucks more I could have it and few more channels (I have Digital Silver, youd think that would be included!)... The Dish is looking better and better these days

Originally posted by M_Ross124
Heres whats happening: (this is on the 6208) VOD is working.. but it told me I couldnt view, had to call Comcast...AND my HD channels were pixelating badly (as it did with the original 08 box)..they got the VOD to work, but the pixelation is just too much..SO..tommorrow its back to the 6214 and no VOD (until late January they tell me)..and all this coming with a price increase?..oh..I asked about why I couldnt get Discovery Wings and they said for 13 bucks more I could have it and few more channels (I have Digital Silver, youd think that would be included!)... The Dish is looking better and better these days

I had pixelation on my HD channels for a week before it went away on its own.

Go here to help you diagnose your problem

http://cjhengineering.com/hdtv/cablehdtv/dctdiag.htm

You are probably getting a whole bunch of uncorretable errors. See what signal strength you have as well.

Originally posted by M_Ross124
..oh..I asked about why I couldnt get Discovery Wings and they said for 13 bucks more I could have it and few more channels (I have Digital Silver, youd think that would be included!)... The Dish is looking better and better these days

I still have the old digital silver where Discover Wings is included, but if I am not mistaken, it should only be $5 more to add a premium tier that should include it.

FYI - On January 10th, Discovery Wings is being renamed to the Military Channel....

Originally posted by mck024
I especially like it when my 3 year old's show ends and it jumps right to a preview for a Chucky movie. Hey Comcast, how about a blank screen without the blaring volume?

Ya my kids started asking what Chuckie was. Thanx Comcast, get your act together with this!!!!

Did anyone have a problem with their box shutting down and resetting at about 9PM tonight? The darn guide needs a complete new download now. I'm pretty happy with this as a Tivo replacement, but hope this isn't a usual occurance.

Originally posted by Gov
Ya my kids started asking what Chuckie was. Thanx Comcast, get your act together with this!!!!

They must have heard you. The VOD system here no longer has that video preview with the E! hosts.

Originally posted by FSugino
They must have heard you. The VOD system here no longer has that video preview with the E! hosts.

Well I hope not totally, I like the female E! host on there :D

My VOD not working again...hmmm

Those of you that have gotten more than one 6412. Are you connecting the boxes to different tv's or are you connecting them to the same set, there by giving you the ability to record more than 2 channels and still watch live?

In my case I have 2 6412's each connected to a different TV.

Just spoke to Comcast CSR (Very Friendly) and was setting up for replacement of 6208 with 6412. When she said, "Hold on. Your area of Buffalo Grove has a problem with the Dual Tuner DVR's. Only the single tuner DVR's are working in the area." Apparently there is a signal issue in the area connecting to the Rolling Meadows Head that is a problem with the 6412's.
She said she could flag my account for when the issue is resolved to contact me.
Can anyone in the area confirm?

Originally posted by VinceP
Those of you that have gotten more than one 6412. Are you connecting the boxes to different tv's or are you connecting them to the same set, there by giving you the ability to record more than 2 channels and still watch live?

I have all four connected to different displays.



Just a follow up to my DVI connection issue, I picked up a different cable and all is working fine.

Hey fellas, I'm new here, I just emailed Comcast about things like Universal, TNT, and ESPN2HD, and they game me the generated they are looking to add but it costs a lot of money answer. But they did also inform me of a 2% price increase starting Jan 05 :(

A question about Comcast DVR:
We currently have Tivo. It sounds like the Comcast DVR capabilities are approaching Tivo regarding series recording.

We record several series and then watch at our convenience.

Does the Comcast DVR capability do essentially the same thing?

I like the two tuner capability of the 6412.

Does it make sense to order the DVR and use it with SD televisions initially?

The 120G storage seems really slim for HD recording -- that is hesitation for HD upgrade.

Also, not many of the programs we record are HD yet.

Thanks for suggestions.

David

Originally posted by dmward
A question about Comcast DVR:
We currently have Tivo. It sounds like the Comcast DVR capabilities are approaching Tivo regarding series recording.

We record several series and then watch at our convenience.

Does the Comcast DVR capability do essentially the same thing?

I like the two tuner capability of the 6412.

Does it make sense to order the DVR and use it with SD televisions initially?

The 120G storage seems really slim for HD recording -- that is hesitation for HD upgrade.

Also, not many of the programs we record are HD yet.

Thanks for suggestions.

David

Hi David,

Unless you get a lot of conflicts on your TiVo, I don't see any reason to get a 6412 until you have a hd tv. The TIVo is still a much better machine for SD. We have 2 TiVos, but don't use them much anymore. Most of what we watch is HD though.

Yes, the 6412 allows you to set up "series recordings", which are very similar to TiVo's "season passes". They aren't quite as easy to set up with the 6412, but it's not a real big deal. The 6412 does not have advanced search functions or wishlists.

120gb isn't much for HD, but you can use the TiVo as a backup in case the 6412 deletes something before you get to it. I still have the TiVos record most of the stuff the 6412 records, "just in case". I rarely have to use the TiVo though.

HTH!

John

Was wondering if there is any Comcast employee on this forum that could help me getting Comcast HDTV/Internet service. My problem:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?threadid=478596

Originally posted by Hopeless
Hi David,

Unless you get a lot of conflicts on your TiVo, I don't see any reason to get a 6412 until you have a hd tv. The TIVo is still a much better machine for SD. We have 2 TiVos, but don't use them much anymore. Most of what we watch is HD though.

Yes, the 6412 allows you to set up "series recordings", which are very similar to TiVo's "season passes". They aren't quite as easy to set up with the 6412, but it's not a real big deal. The 6412 does not have advanced search functions or wishlists.

120gb isn't much for HD, but you can use the TiVo as a backup in case the 6412 deletes something before you get to it. I still have the TiVos record most of the stuff the 6412 records, "just in case". I rarely have to use the TiVo though.

HTH!

John

John,
Thanks for the info. Yes it is useful
I checked the schedules for the 4 networks. It appears that all the programs we record are offered as HDTV. I presume that if the national network supplies them in HD that the Comcast provides them that way on the digital channel for the network.

What about golf and other sporting events? Are they generally HDTV?

David

Originally posted by dmward

What about golf and other sporting events? Are they generally HDTV?

CBS did several golf tournaments this year in HD.
There are several HD NFL games each week (Fox, CBS, ESPN, ABC).
There are a few HD NBA games each month on NBA TV (HD on INHD).
CBS / ESPN did some HD college football and will do some HD college basketball.
FOX / NBC plan to show all 2005 NASCAR events in HD.

As for local teams, all Cubs / Sox / Bulls home games on WGN or Comcast SportsNet Chicago are shown in HD.

We're fairly fortunate here in Chicago as far as HD sports goes...hope this helps.

Originally posted by kblee
CBS did several golf tournaments this year in HD.
There are several HD NFL games each week (Fox, CBS, ESPN, ABC).
There are a few HD NBA games each month on NBA TV (HD on INHD).
CBS / ESPN did some HD college football and will do some HD college basketball.
FOX / NBC plan to show all 2005 NASCAR events in HD.

As for local teams, all Cubs / Sox / Bulls home games on WGN or Comcast SportsNet Chicago are shown in HD.

We're fairly fortunate here in Chicago as far as HD sports goes...hope this helps.

Thanks,
Friend's soon to be son-in-law just qualified for the PGA Tour so I guess we will be watching a lot of golf. HD would be great, especially for the majors.

Hadn't thought about the Cubs, but that is good to know.

Used to go to sports car races, hadn't thought about NASCAR, could be neat on HD.

The idea of upgrading to HD is sounding better.

Now to decide what HDTV to get.

David

btw the bulls are on espnHD friday night and the illini are on espnHD saturday afternoon[7pm for the bulls 2pm for the illini]

Originally posted by kevin j
btw the bulls are on espnHD friday night and the illini are on espnHD saturday afternoon[7pm for the bulls 2pm for the illini]

Actually the Illini game is on at 1:00 on Sat. I'll be there watching in person - the only thing that beats HD.:D

FYI, I have four 6412s and Comcast is charging me $9.95 for each per month. I have contested this with Comcast and they cannot show me anywhere that they are supposed to charging this. They only show a fee of $9.95 monthly for the DVR service period. I can understand that they charge me $9.95 for the first DVR box and $5.00 for each additional box but not an extra $4.95 for DVR service in each room. I am going to be filing a complaint with the local cable regulatory committee. I already tried with the FCC but they referred me to the LCRC.

Hello,

If I tell them I only want limited basic (local channels only 2,5,7,9, etc) for house, will they put a filter on my line? If they put this filter on... does it block out my HDTV signals, Digital Channels?

Originally posted by acaoacao
Hello,

If I tell them I only want limited basic (local channels only 2,5,7,9, etc) for house, will they put a filter on my line? If they put this filter on... does it block out my HDTV signals, Digital Channels?

You can order locals only and the hd box, which (I believe) will give you exactly that - Local channels in both analog and in HD. The key to this setup is cable modem. Paying for cable modem, locals only and HD will give you everything you pay for, plus analog channels 2-99 (which includes one hbo, one showtime at my house) without any dishonesty on your part.
The cable guide will work.
PPV will work.
VOD will work.
No digital channels will work. They are blocked from the office, not through a line filter.

HD Rookie...

So if I order Cable Modem, and HD.. I can essentially order Locals only and get everything and save some money....

Pay ~$11 instead of $43?

If I order Cable Modem and Local Only.. will they cut off analog 2-99?

Originally posted by acaoacao
HD Rookie...

So if I order Cable Modem, and HD.. I can essentially order Locals only and get everything and save some money....

Pay ~$11 instead of $43?
I believe I pay the following (give or take):
$42 internet
$15 locals only
$10 hd/dvr box (6208) lease

If you go to www.comcast.com and take a look at Channel Lineup (you will have to enter your zip code) there will be a select box to choose service level. Select Basic Service and you will see the lineup. Also note the discalimer on the bottom where they acknowledge that you can receive local HD channels with baic cable service "Channels 187-192 are available on Basic Service with HDTV equipment. Channel 217 requires a digital converter."

2 WBBM-TV (2) CBS

3 Comcast Network

5 WMAQ-TV (5) NBC

6 WCIU-TV (26)

7 WLS-TV (7) ABC

8 WPWR-TV (50) UPN

9 WGN-TV (9) WB

10 WGBO-TV (66) UNI

11 WTTW-TV (11) PBS

12 WFLD-TV (32) FOX

13 Access

15 Access

16 Turner Classic Movies

18 WCPX-TV (38) PAX

19 WSNS-TV (44) TEL

20 WYCC-TV (20)

21 Discovery Channel

22 QVC

23 WXFT-TV (60)

24 Access

25 Food Network

26 Access

27 CSPAN 2

28 VH1

29 CSPAN

30 TV Guide Channel

31 The Learning Channel

32 Animal Planet

33 WJYS-TV (62)

34 TBS

35 Access

95 HSN

96 Access

217 ABC News Now

Originally posted by acaoacao
If I order Cable Modem and Local Only.. will they cut off analog 2-99?
My guess would be no, but I'm really not sure.

This is what i get when i punch in my zip code...


Basic cable service is not yet available for sale on our Web site at the address/ZIP code you entered.

Please call 1-888-COMCAST to order service.


Does this mean its not available in my area?

<double>

Well, I called to bring down my standard cable to basic cable. They asked me to to schedule an appoint to come to my house. I kind of balked at that.... hmmm.. mmm...
Does that mean they will put a filter in to trap out the 2-99 analog signal?

Does anyone else know more about the trap/filter they put in?

What does it filter out?

higher numbered analog signals (22-99)
digital channel frequency...

The reason I am so curious about this is that I have a black box from them
I have the 6412 that is not listed on their system and I get all the digital channels along with most of the HD channels that i do not subscribe to. If I drop it to basic cable will this box still work?

Originally posted by vj9999
Select Basic Service and you will see the lineup.

vj9999, I'm not smart enough to use their site. I can never find a damn thing on it after I enter my zip, but that's besides the point.

Basic cable is not the same as locals only. Locals only is never advertised anywhere. My internet/locals only/hd package gets me many, many more channels than you listed from their site. I would guess 20-30 more.

Originally posted by acaoacao
Does anyone else know more about the trap/filter they put in?

What does it filter out?

higher numbered analog signals (22-99)
digital channel frequency...

The reason I am so curious about this is that I have a black box from them
I have the 6412 that is not listed on their system and I get all the digital channels along with most of the HD channels that i do not subscribe to. If I drop it to basic cable will this box still work?

I wouldn't change a thing if you value channels larger than 99.

HD Rookie,

I will listen to your advice.

Thanks!

I filled this afternoon with my local LCRC here in Downers. They were very receptive to what I had to say and seemed to agree with my case. The second part of my complaint is that I was charged four times for installation 4 x $15.99 when I upgraded my boxes even though when I made the initial call I was told I would be charged only $15.99 for all due to some errors on their part. The installer showed up late that day, just dropped off the boxes and picked up the old ones (6208s) I had already disconnected and I installed the new boxes. He was here for ten minutes.

Question for you guys with a 6412 and Cmcast Cable modem service:
Do they now deliver the service via the cable modem in the 6412?

That adds an interesting additional home networking capability for those with multiple 6412s.

It also would reduce the number of boxes I have cluttering up the shelf.

Thanks,
David

AFAIK the ethernet port on the 6412 is not enabled.

Originally posted by Kipp Jones
I filled this afternoon with my local LCRC here in Downers. They were very receptive to what I had to say and seemed to agree with my case. The second part of my complaint is that I was charged four times for installation 4 x $15.99 when I upgraded my boxes even though when I made the initial call I was told I would be charged only $15.99 for all due to some errors on their part. The installer showed up late that day, just dropped off the boxes and picked up the old ones (6208s) I had already disconnected and I installed the new boxes. He was here for ten minutes.
Kipp...tell them that they charged me $32 per upgraded box! [5100 -> 6412 = $32 + 2200 -> 6412 = $32 == $64!!]. The CSR's were so persistent that they had to charge me $32 for each box and would not budge. I think they claimed that $16 is the "change in service fee", and the other $16 for "installation fee" for each box you want to upgrade. Why no one else in this forum got charged like I did is very strange. They need to be consistent and accurate with their charges so that they don't PO their customers.

Will do.

Originally posted by VinceP
Just spoke to Comcast CSR (Very Friendly) and was setting up for replacement of 6208 with 6412. When she said, "Hold on. Your area of Buffalo Grove has a problem with the Dual Tuner DVR's. Only the single tuner DVR's are working in the area." Apparently there is a signal issue in the area connecting to the Rolling Meadows Head that is a problem with the 6412's.
She said she could flag my account for when the issue is resolved to contact me.
Can anyone in the area confirm?


I just called Comcast and was told no 6412 in Palatine yet, only the 6208. So either they don't have enough of them, or there is some technical issue through the Rolling Meadows headend.

There was an article in the Business section of yesterday's Tribune highlighting the 6412.

http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/chi-0412080367dec08,1,7543214.story

tim

Anyone else having freeze ups and lip sync issues with Ch 195 Cinemax HD over the last couple of days?

Just an update earlier on my "CableCARD issue" of not getting the "channel identifiers" (i.e. channel name, program name, etc.).

After some additional problem determination with an outstanding Comcast technician, we eliminated the CableCARD as the issue.

BTW, the Comcast technician said Comcast does not broadcast the identifier, it is the actual station that does.

After another call to Pioneer, they were able to recreate my problem in the matter of a few minutes, on one of their lab TVs, I guess.

Now I'm waiting for a call back from Pioneer....

Originally posted by Gov
Anyone else having freeze ups and lip sync issues with Ch 195 Cinemax HD over the last couple of days?

Yeah - I noticed it a few days ago. It seems to come and go.

Hello. I am looking for moderators for my site. We now have over 200 members and would appreciate some input. I have been granted permission to post this here from CPANTHER95 one of the moderators on AVSFORUM.

Three moderators already signed up thank you.


__________________
www.chicagoavforum.com

..received my 6412 on friday. The tech did not have the correct remote and I had to go to Elgin to pick one up after talking to 3 ppl there who claimed there was no such remote. No problems with the box so far. The analog looks slightly worse, but the digital channels and HD looks clearer than before.

are there any other folks having trouble getting on demand movies through the 6412? i have three boxes in my house and the two standard boxes can get the movies but i can't get them on the 6412. when i called and talked to a csr she told me that on demand wasn't available in my area, shorewood, and the fact that i get it on the other two boxes must a fluke of nature. also does anyone know about a time frame for hd movies on demand?

..we currently get ondemand hd movies here in st. charles. Prices run from 3.99 to 5.99...my 6412 has no problem with any of the ondemand services...

Originally posted by hrlyboy1
I just called Comcast and was told no 6412 in Palatine yet, only the 6208. So either they don't have enough of them, or there is some technical issue through the Rolling Meadows headend.

I'm in Elk Grove and the signal comes out of Rolling Meadows.The 6412's are working except for the on demand. They gave me the option of taking the 6412 back and taking the 6408. I'll live without the on demand and take the dual tuner until the vod gets fixed. I have the vod on my other 2 boxes. None of which are the 6412.

We have the digital package from Comcast (Highland Park) with a couple of premium offerings. My question: If I put a QAM HDTV card in an HTPC will I be able to get the Comcast rebroadcast of the local OTA HD channels?

I am interested in all 4, ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC. This would simplify our transition from TIVO since virtually all the HD programming we are interested in is broadcast.

That leaves questions about playback from the HDPC.

Thanks

David

Originally posted by dmward
We have the digital package from Comcast (Highland Park) with a couple of premium offerings. My question: If I put a QAM HDTV card in an HTPC will I be able to get the Comcast rebroadcast of the local OTA HD channels?

I am interested in all 4, ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC.


Yes, you can get those as well as PBS (WTTW) and WB (WGN).

All of the broadcast HD channels (2, 5, 7, etc..), along with ABC World News Now and some of the religious stations and preview channels, are unencrypted.

If you want to check a channel, and you have a Motorola box:
Tune to the channel you want to check.
Turn the box off, then quickly hit OK/ENTER (center button between arrow keys on remote.)
Scroll down to 'Current Channel Status' and hit OK/ENTER.
On the upper right you will see ENC (ENCrypted), or CLR (not encrypted). Encrypted channels require the box or a Cable Card to view.
You can hit ENTER to go back to the menu.
To exit, either just hit power, or go to the bottom and hit OK/ENTER on the Exit option.

Why is the Bulls game not on CSNHD tonight? INHD2 program listing is showing it should be on, but it is not!?

Originally posted by vj9999
Why is the Bulls game not on CSNHD tonight? INHD2 program listing is showing it should be on, but it is not!?

It was on here.


tim

So, how does it look on CSNHD? Compared to WGN? I watch on SD and everytime there is a home game/HD telecast there are moments when the screen changes to a diff color and it seems like quality is lost. Also, shaky camera work every once in a while

Originally posted by timdgibson
It was on here.


tim

Tim. Did you watch it from begining to end? I checked around 8pm and inhd2 had reegular programming. I tuned in again with 4 miinutes left in 4th qtr and the game was on and in HD.

Does anyone know which headend Winnetka is fed off of?

Originally posted by vj9999
Tim. Did you watch it from begining to end? I checked around 8pm and inhd2 had reegular programming. I tuned in again with 4 miinutes left in 4th qtr and the game was on and in HD.

I didn't start watching until about a few minutes before you.


tim

Does HDTV from Comcast always have HDCP? I'm asking since I'd like to try my LCD monitor via DVI, but it obviously doesn't support HDCP. Just wondering if I had any options?

From the menu in my 6412, HDCP is not active.

Thanks, I was just wondering. I could always just get a component to vga adapter to use the service if HDCP was fully enabled I suppose...

So I like to record the Bulls games on my 6412 (I know, I'm a pathetic loser). I then like to fast forward thru the game. However, twice in the past week, the fast forward function did not work. When I click fast forward, a little icon w/ a slash thru it that indicates that fast forwading is not available . Anyone else experience this?

I had the same problem once. It was also with a Bulls game. It hasn't happened recently though. I am planning on recording the game tonight. I'll post tomorrow if I have the same problem.

I have a problem. I just got Comcast to compare them to DirecTV. Everything coming in fine via the 6412. I have a Sony KDE50XBR950 and it's tuner supports QAM. Now I can do a channel scan, it says it's found digital channels but when I try to tune them in it says no signal.

Now I also got cable modem service also and the modem say it's QAM256, so does the 6412, so the question is could the Sony be only QAM64 and not know what to do with QAM256?

Anyone have any ideas on what's happening??? Thanks

rad,

Comcast digital channels are mostly scrambled. The Sony may find them, but won't display them. You should be able to get the HD locals (CBS, etc.) via cable in the clear, but that's about it. ESPN-HD was in the clear for a while, but has been scrambled lately.

My LG 3410A DVR also finds the scrambled channels, but will not display them. Sometimes a "scrambled" message flashes on the blank screen, sometimes not.

You need to watch the scrambled digitals and HD's through the 6412, unless your Sony has a CABLEcard slot, which I don't believe it does.

Nice plasma, though. I have the 42XBR900. :cool:

Originally posted by PhillyC
rad,

Comcast digital channels are mostly scrambled. The Sony may find them, but won't display them. You should be able to get the HD locals (CBS, etc.) via cable in the clear, but that's about it. ESPN-HD was in the clear for a while, but has been scrambled lately.

My LG 3410A DVR also finds the scrambled channels, but will not display them. Sometimes a "scrambled" message flashes on the blank screen, sometimes not.

You need to watch the scrambled digitals and HD's through the 6412, unless your Sony has a CABLEcard slot, which I don't believe it does.

Nice plasma, though. I have the 42XBR900. :cool:

I know about scrambled vs. in the clear, just don't know what I'm not able to find the HD local channels.

Comcast is slipping up a bit - this is the second time they've sent a message to my cable box about something that's obviously not meant for the Chicago area. This time the message is about "KOMO 4 On Demand" - KOMO being the ABC affiliate in Seattle.

Anyone else get this on their box?

Originally posted by FSugino
Comcast is slipping up a bit - this is the second time they've sent a message to my cable box about something that's obviously not meant for the Chicago area. This time the message is about "KOMO 4 On Demand" - KOMO being the ABC affiliate in Seattle.

Anyone else get this on their box?

I got the same message

Anyone else having periodic breakups on all Comcast HD channels this morning (12/19)? I'm in Oak Park, IL and haven't changed anything. Checked all my connections, they seem fine, just wondering if it may be a wider problem.

i noticed breakups[pixelization] during the football game last night...i'm still having trouble today

Originally posted by FSugino
Comcast is slipping up a bit - this is the second time they've sent a message to my cable box about something that's obviously not meant for the Chicago area. This time the message is about "KOMO 4 On Demand" - KOMO being the ABC affiliate in Seattle.

Anyone else get this on their box?

Got it Saturday morning, too. I assume the first time was when they posted about job openings in New Jersey?:confused:

I thought the KOMO message was funny, but it was only by checking that message that I became aware that ONDemand was available for me. I live in West Lakeview in the city.

What format does Comcast use for sd VOD? It looks really good on my set. I'm guessing it's 480i?

Originally posted by cjb
I thought the KOMO message was funny, but it was only by checking that message that I became aware that ONDemand was available for me. I live in West Lakeview in the city.
Do you have the 6412? I'm in Edgewater and still don't have ONDemand yet. How would I know if it's even in my area if my box hasn't updated yet? Did the number of pay-per-view channels decrease? thanks.

I was told by the csr that ondemand wasn't avialble in my area even though I get it on my sd boxes. Someone on the boards said that will also offer a hd on demand, any info on that?

I am having break-ups on all my HD stations(i am in naperville)...Most have not worked since this morning...It just has to happen on a Sunday! I called and at tech is coming out tomorrow.

Originally posted by marvincbr
I was told by the csr that ondemand wasn't avialble in my area even though I get it on my sd boxes. Someone on the boards said that will also offer a hd on demand, any info on that?

HD on Demand is active here, although Comcast did a good job hiding it (it's in the Lifestyle section three screens down) and there's only two programs available: Envy, and The Magic of Flight. Envy is free, but they want to charge $3.99 for The Magic of Flight (which shows up every once in a while on INHD).

I think they're still testing the system because HD on Demand used to have a lot more choices, and it used to be on the main menu. I'm sure Comcast will have a big marketing push once they formally launch the service.

I was in the middle of the Bears game today (non-HD, thanks CBS) when the box shut off and a "dl" appeared on my box. 1/2 an hour later I have On Demand. I was a little angry about the timing, but now I think I should send them a thatn you note. What an awful game. BTW, I also record Bulls games. All of the sudden I don't mind telling people that.

Originally posted by JCF
I am having break-ups on all my HD stations(i am in naperville)...Most have not worked since this morning...It just has to happen on a Sunday! I called and at tech is coming out tomorrow.

Sorry, JCF - all my HD channels are coming in perfectly here. Must be a local problem.

Originally posted by hogues
BTW, I also record Bulls games. All of the sudden I don't mind telling people that.

Good for you man. This town is way too critical when it comes to the Bulls.

Originally posted by FSugino
Comcast is slipping up a bit - this is the second time they've sent a message to my cable box about something that's obviously not meant for the Chicago area. This time the message is about "KOMO 4 On Demand" - KOMO being the ABC affiliate in Seattle.

Anyone else get this on their box?
I live in Los Angeles and got the same message.
oops.

FSugino. I am guessing you didn't see my post regarding VOD on chicagoavforum and guessing from your post I assume your VOD is working just fine. Mine has been not working since yesterday.

"FSugino or anyone else on Schaumburg headend experiencing problems with VOD? I am getting "Error Retrieving Data, Unable to authorize your order......Reference 225" on everything I try to watch. They reswet my box a liitle while ago, but the stuff is still loading so I right now it is saying it can't connect to VOD server."

Now I am not able to get to VOD menu at all. They are saying after reset something else has to be authorized and it takes up to 24hrs to do it. I'll try calling again later and see if I'll hear something else :)

Yup, VOD is working just fine here. I had intermittent glitches like yours when VOD first started here, but it's been stable for quite a while.

Thanks. I think they just goofed up something on my account. I hope they don't force me into switching to one of the new digital packages to get it back.

Originally posted by rad
I have a problem. I just got Comcast to compare them to DirecTV. Everything coming in fine via the 6412. I have a Sony KDE50XBR950 and it's tuner supports QAM. Now I can do a channel scan, it says it's found digital channels but when I try to tune them in it says no signal.

Now I also got cable modem service also and the modem say it's QAM256, so does the 6412, so the question is could the Sony be only QAM64 and not know what to do with QAM256?

Anyone have any ideas on what's happening??? Thanks

Comcast has a ton of fake channels after you do a channel scan. A couple years back I used my tuner to pull in some of the Comcast Digital channels. It just wasn't worth it. Earlier in this thread the list of channels were posted:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&postid=4443065&highlight=qam+channels#post4443065

Originally posted by timmo
Do you have the 6412? I'm in Edgewater and still don't have ONDemand yet. How would I know if it's even in my area if my box hasn't updated yet? Did the number of pay-per-view channels decrease? thanks.

I do have the 6412. I noticed the change simply because when I hit "menu" there was a new icon for OnDemand. I clicked it, and, voila, I could use it. Unfortunately, I cannot answer your question about PPV channels, since I don't know how many there used to be.

There is an HDTV section in the OD menu, but the only options are movies (like 4 choices total) all for a fee.

So far, the only OD content I'm excited about are all the Adult Swim episodes.

Originally posted by vj9999
"FSugino or anyone else on Schaumburg headend experiencing problems with VOD? I am getting "Error Retrieving Data, Unable to authorize your order......Reference 225" on everything I try to watch. They reswet my box a liitle while ago, but the stuff is still loading so I right now it is saying it can't connect to VOD server."

Now I am not able to get to VOD menu at all. They are saying after reset something else has to be authorized and it takes up to 24hrs to do it. I'll try calling again later and see if I'll hear something else :)

Make certain your box can talk back. If the uplink is too weak, VOD will not work. You can check by turning off the box, then quickly hitting OK/ENTER on the remote. Use the arrow keys to scroll to the uplink strength (or similar) menu. If it says 60db, you are at the max and could be the problem. Mine reads 56, which is getting marginal. My modem is usually in the 40's, but with one less splitter.

Originally posted by timmo
Kipp...tell them that they charged me $32 per upgraded box! [5100 -> 6412 = $32 + 2200 -> 6412 = $32 == $64!!]. The CSR's were so persistent that they had to charge me $32 for each box and would not budge. I think they claimed that $16 is the "change in service fee", and the other $16 for "installation fee" for each box you want to upgrade. Why no one else in this forum got charged like I did is very strange. They need to be consistent and accurate with their charges so that they don't PO their customers.
Yay!! I just got my bill with the horrendous $64 install charge for 2 DVR boxes, and I called customer support and they credited $32 back for the install charges. Apparently they have to keep the "Activate/Chge Exist Serv" fees of $15.99 per box, but she credited the DVR install charges. I'm happy now...she was very nice about it. I now feel like I've been treated fairly.

I asked about ONDemand for my neighborhood, and she said it won't be available until January 2005...bummer.

Originally posted by andyross63
Make certain your box can talk back. If the uplink is too weak, VOD will not work. You can check by turning off the box, then quickly hitting OK/ENTER on the remote. Use the arrow keys to scroll to the uplink strength (or similar) menu. If it says 60db, you are at the max and could be the problem. Mine reads 56, which is getting marginal. My modem is usually in the 40's, but with one less splitter.

I had a tech out here today and 225 error was same reason as I previously posted few months ago. My wife has been watching VOD alot and it seems that even though you are viewing free content (or content you subscribe to ), it goes towards the ppv limit they have set up. My account is set at $150 and once that limit is reached it locks it out. This is a bug on their part since free content shouldn't count towards this. They just refreshed my account and it immediately started working.

Also, last night when they sent out the "strong" hit, it messed up the modem. Whne you go to the Diag menu it should be reporting center frequency and all other parameters for the RF modem. Mine was reporting 0 and that it is not configured. The tech had them send out a special signal to reactivate it.

Anyone else notice "The Vanishing" (1993 with Kiefer Sutherland and Sandra Bullock) is on channel 208?

b

Originally posted by HD Rookie
Comcast has a ton of fake channels after you do a channel scan. A couple years back I used my tuner to pull in some of the Comcast Digital channels. It just wasn't worth it. Earlier in this thread the list of channels were posted:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&postid=4443065&highlight=qam+channels#post4443065

Yeah I have to agree.. there was too many junk channels on the QAM signal. Go and pay that additional 5 dollars a month. it is well worth it.

Originally posted by bkozlowski
Anyone else notice "The Vanishing" (1993 with Kiefer Sutherland and Sandra Bullock) is on channel 208?

b

They have been doing that when one of the other INHDs is pre empted for a sporting event.

Originally posted by vj9999
They have been doing that when one of the other INHDs is pre empted for a sporting event.

This has been the first time I've seen something on this channel besides GOTW.

b

Anybody try to watch the HD version of Envy on ON Demand (buried under the Lifestyle category, down a few menu screens.) It is free, but the audio was screwed up. It sounds like the center and left-surround are swapped. It's nothing with my setup, as this was the first time I ever heard it. I have an optical cable to my receiver, and the movie was full Dolby 5.1 surround.

Originally posted by andyross63
Anybody try to watch the HD version of Envy on ON Demand (buried under the Lifestyle category, down a few menu screens.) It is free, but the audio was screwed up. It sounds like the center and left-surround are swapped. It's nothing with my setup, as this was the first time I ever heard it. I have an optical cable to my receiver, and the movie was full Dolby 5.1 surround.

Yeah, the audio has been screwed up since it first appeared. I think I mentioned it a few months ago when HD On Demand was still on the main menu screen here.

how does one get to this lifestyle category?

Originally posted by marvincbr
how does one get to this lifestyle category?

When you hit the On Demand button (or goto channel 1) you'll get the On Demand menus. Lifestyle is one of the categories that's on this screen - it's in the right hand column, second one down. Move the cursor over it and press the select button. There are a lot of selections in the Lifestyle section, so to get to the HDTV stuff you'll have to page down a couple of times.

This might be Schaumburg headend specific. Ususally HDTV on Demand is in the main mmenu, but ours has been moved to MainMenu->Lifestyles->Hdtv On Demand. You have to scroll down twice and hdtv is on the third page of Lifestyle menu.

Yeah - it must be Schaumburg specific, as my HDTV On Demand section is on the front page - nothing in Lifestyles, and none of the content is free either. Everything is either $5.99 or $3.99.

Marc

Originally posted by bkozlowski
Received a message on my box: Effective 12/07 PPV channels 803 to 822 & 835 will be eliminated.
That should free up some bandwith!

b

Got a new message about PPV. Same channels different date 2/17/05.

b

On a daily basis, I'm getting garbled sound from NBC5's HD channel. Anyone else with a similar experience?

Originally posted by Tim Barron
On a daily basis, I'm getting garbled sound from NBC5's HD channel. Anyone else with a similar experience?

I am noticing the same problem. It seems like the upper frequencies are coming from inside a tin can or something. I've also noticed numerous picture pixelations on NBC too, regardless of whether it was HD or not. Other channels seem fine though.

Originally posted by bkozlowski
Got a new message about PPV. Same channels different date 2/17/05.

Just got that here in Schaumburg. Probably clearing up bandwidth to allow more OnDemand space, and more digital channels. Possibly setting up for the simulcast of analog channels.

Is there anybody in Elk Grove Village that has VOD working that has the dual tuner? Comcast tells me there's still a problem out of Rolling Meadows and they don't know when it will be fixed. Is this true?

Originally posted by FSugino
When you hit the On Demand button (or goto channel 1) you'll get the On Demand menus.

that must be my problem, nothing happens when i hit the on demand button.

Originally posted by marvincbr
that must be my problem, nothing happens when i hit the on demand button.

I'm in Plainfield and it doesn't work here yet either

Originally posted by andyross63
Just got that here in Schaumburg. Probably clearing up bandwidth to allow more OnDemand space, and more digital channels. Possibly setting up for the simulcast of analog channels.
Are they going to digitally simulcast all the analog channels?? That would be great if they do...the audio has been horrible on my analogs lately.

Originally posted by bkozlowski
This has been the first time I've seen something on this channel besides GOTW.

b

Hi, dont have Comcast yet, but wondering, when you say 'GOTW' do you mean the inHD NBA game of the week, or is it the NFL Network Game of the Week (or something else)?

Thanks so much for the help!

XOXO
*~Carly~*
MUAAHHHHH :p

Originally posted by CSNHottie
Hi, dont have Comcast yet, but wondering, when you say 'GOTW' do you mean the inHD NBA game of the week, or is it the NFL Network Game of the Week (or something else)?

Thanks so much for the help!

XOXO
*~Carly~*
MUAAHHHHH :p


NFL Network Game of the Week.

b

Originally posted by MarcL
- it must be Schaumburg specific, as my HDTV On Demand section is on the front page - Marc
I'm in Naperville and don't see an HDTV On Demand section. There is a "Widescreen" movie section however. Is that in HD? Al

Originally posted by bigalw22
I'm in Naperville and don't see an HDTV On Demand section. There is a "Widescreen" movie section however. Is that in HD? Al

No, that's just a letterboxed SD display. HD on Demand may not be available in all areas - it looks like Comcast is still testing this feature.

FSugino. Are you experiencing any VOD problems since last night? I am not able to get to VOD menu and keep getting different errors (215,206 and 203). This is different then the problem I had earlier this week and I think this time it is a problem on their end. When I called Comcast, automated message say that they are aware of VOD problems (but didn't list in what areas).

Thanks.

Nope, VOD is working just fine here. I actually have a different problem that just started today. When I first turn on the cable box, I do not get a picture on any channel. The station guide and menus all appear, but I do not get any picture or sound. I have to go into DVR mode, play something for a second or two, then stop the playback. Then the picture and audio for the channels come in.

It sure is annoying - I wonder what kind of work is going on at the headend?

The 6412 has landed in Old Town. All functions are working as advertised.

Yippee!! This is a huge improvement over the 6208.

Originally posted by andyross63
Just got that here in Schaumburg. Probably clearing up bandwidth to allow more OnDemand space, and more digital channels. Possibly setting up for the simulcast of analog channels.

Here is plug for a simulcast of the analog's

Originally posted by mlx52
Here is plug for a simulcast of the analog's
I won't mind digital simulcast, as long as they are at broadcast resolution. If it's the typical VHS resolution of many non-movie digital channels, then forget it.

Originally posted by andyross63
I won't mind digital simulcast, as long as they are at broadcast resolution. If it's the typical VHS resolution of many non-movie digital channels, then forget it.

I agree, I have found that on many of my digital channels color depth and accuracy is sorely lacking. It is interesting to note, however, that DirecTV's channels (including the Chicago locals) have much better color depth and accuracy and the images seem to be much more vivid. Why can't Comcast get close to this, is it simply because they are compressing the signal too much? I know that it is possible to get the colors because when my son watches MTV Hits (472) the colors are vivid and right on.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to Everyone

..I also ran into the no picture and audio glitch, but still was able to call up the menus. Out of sheer dumb luck I played the dvr and then exited out which brought back the cable picture and audio....very strange indeed. I also have my menu not respond occasionally and then suddenly catch up with the button presses, not a huge deal, but mildly annoying nonetheless. Overall my 6412 is working out nicely, with about 20 items recorded, only one has had an interruption problem. Happy viewing

BC

Since I had the STB installed in early Nov, I've always had a full 14-15 days of guide data. For the last few days however, the guide only goes out about 7 or 8 days on some channels, most notably the HD locals, 174, 175 and 205. A lot of "To Be Announced" beyond 7 days on these channels. Anyone else?

Also, what level of service do I need to watch GOTW on 208? I have digital classic and can't watch anything on 208.

Does anyone have the option for "favorites" on their quick menu? There's a blank space where the favorites icon should be on mine.

Originally posted by acaoacao
I need help. RCA HDTV TV w. built in QAM tuner ... HD channels from the Comcast cable ... in Romeoville, IL ... what channel and sub channel for the HDTV local channels in the clear?

I'm in Evanston, IL with Comcast basic cable (part of my condo fees so I pay nothing). Thinking that it would be nice to avoid an antenna setup if possible to get HD locals, I purchased the LG LST-4200A HTDV reciever -- it does OTA HD, QAM HD, and regular analog channels too (great for demos of HD versus analog by pressing the FLASHBACK button).

I was happy to be able to be able to get all of the HDTV local channels in the clear via the cable. Here's the channels I received:

Digital Local QAM Channels
Channel Network Call Sign Analog Equiv
108-1 ABC WLS 7
108-2 WB WGN 9
116-1 CBS WBBM 2
116-2 PBS WTTWD 11
117-2 FOX WFLD 12
117-5 NBC WMAQ 5

Additional QAM Channels
Channel Network
77-6 movies?
77-11 TBN.org
100-10 Weather
56-21 to 29 music
57-21 to 40 music
63-1 to 54 music
86-21 to 28 music
93-21 to 25 music
94-21 to 25 music


Good luck!

Okay, I'm new to this forum, and to this long thread. So I apologize for bumping it up for a not-quite-on-topic post.

I, too, live in Plainfield. I'm wondering if anyone has had any success using an external (or internal for that matter) HD antenna. As I understand it, if you can recieve the digital signal on-air, you would then be able to recieve the local channels sub-channels as well. A good example would have been during the recent breaking news coverage of the high-rise fire downtown, channel 7 (abc) had continuing live coverage of the fire on their main feed. As a result, the Monday Night Football game was not available. However, if you recieved the digital signal on-air, you could've switched to a sub-channel (7.1, 7.2, 7.3...) to recieve the coverage of the football game instead of the live news coverage. Comcast customers only recieve the main channel for the local affiliates. Therefore, even though they recieve the locals in digital, they had no way to see the football game.

Anyway, sorry about the long post for a short question. Is Plainfield too far from the city for it to be possible to receive the HD digital signal on-air. I was told, that there is no "weak" signals. With digital, you either get it or you don't. Thanks in advance for any input!

Chris

I had read a thread on here ages ago which caused me to not bother trying. I think CBS is almost impossible out here (or was, IIRC)

You'd probably get a better idea by checking out the Chicago OTA thread.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=444398&perpage=30&highlight=Chicago&pagenumber=17

Originally posted by teewinot
Okay, I'm new to this forum, and to this long thread. So I apologize for bumping it up for a not-quite-on-topic post.

I, too, live in Plainfield. I'm wondering if anyone has had any success using an external (or internal for that matter) HD antenna. As I understand it, if you can recieve the digital signal on-air, you would then be able to recieve the local channels sub-channels as well. A good example would have been during the recent breaking news coverage of the high-rise fire downtown, channel 7 (abc) had continuing live coverage of the fire on their main feed. As a result, the Monday Night Football game was not available. However, if you recieved the digital signal on-air, you could've switched to a sub-channel (7.1, 7.2, 7.3...) to recieve the coverage of the football game instead of the live news coverage. Comcast customers only recieve the main channel for the local affiliates. Therefore, even though they recieve the locals in digital, they had no way to see the football game.

Anyway, sorry about the long post for a short question. Is Plainfield too far from the city for it to be possible to receive the HD digital signal on-air. I was told, that there is no "weak" signals. With digital, you either get it or you don't. Thanks in advance for any input!

Chris


I live in 60490 Bolingbrook, Essington & 127th.. I used an internal RCA amplied antenna on the first floor and it works fine!

Originally posted by teewinot
Okay, I'm new to this forum, and to this long thread. So I apologize for bumping it up for a not-quite-on-topic post.

I, too, live in Plainfield. I'm wondering if anyone has had any success using an external (or internal for that matter) HD antenna. As I understand it, if you can recieve the digital signal on-air, you would then be able to recieve the local channels sub-channels as well. A good example would have been during the recent breaking news coverage of the high-rise fire downtown, channel 7 (abc) had continuing live coverage of the fire on their main feed. As a result, the Monday Night Football game was not available. However, if you recieved the digital signal on-air, you could've switched to a sub-channel (7.1, 7.2, 7.3...) to recieve the coverage of the football game instead of the live news coverage. Comcast customers only recieve the main channel for the local affiliates. Therefore, even though they recieve the locals in digital, they had no way to see the football game.


I believe WLS only has 2 channels. 7.1 is the main 720p HD feed. 7.2 is a highly compressed SD feed for ABC World News Now. Comcast simply rebroadcasts the main HD feed. In the case of WLS, they are also carrying ABCWNN on channel 217. WTTW has the separate PBS-HD feed on 11.1. I think 11.2 is a simulcast of analog 11.

WLS actually also has 7.3 for weather radar/weather radio. 7.2 also sometimes has other local programming instead of WNN.

How can I copy from the DVR to my computer so that I can save off some of the shows onto a DVD. Once I get it onto my PC I know what to do, but how do I get the programs off of the DVR?

Thanks!

Originally posted by AssyrianEd
How can I copy from the DVR to my computer so that I can save off some of the shows onto a DVD. Once I get it onto my PC I know what to do, but how do I get the programs off of the DVR?

Thanks!

over firewire.

See:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=403695&perpage=20&pagenumber=1

Thanks alot nevermind!!! Perfect. I'll try it out this weekend as I wait for the Dall to drop in Times Square!!! Happy New Year.

Originally posted by andyross63
I believe WLS only has 2 channels. 7.1 is the main 720p HD feed. 7.2 is a highly compressed SD feed for ABC World News Now. Comcast simply rebroadcasts the main HD feed. In the case of WLS, they are also carrying ABCWNN on channel 217. WTTW has the separate PBS-HD feed on 11.1. I think 11.2 is a simulcast of analog 11.

As previously noted, WLS does have 3 channels. 7.2 broadcasts repeats of the local news, local interest shows, and sometimes ABCWNN. 7.3 broadcasts weather info. Comcast carries 7.1 and ABCWNN but not 7.3.

WLS-DT has a third subchannel -- 7-3 -- which is the MetroVision 7 Radar.

Hi all!

I recently had a most pleasant experience with Comcast Chicago: I previously had the Moto 5100 for HD reception and was upgrading to the 6412; the installer arrived 10 min. early! And he actually knew what he was doing: he knew what the dvi and optical cables where and how to connect them. After making a few tweaks at the cable box (don't have a clue why) everything was up and running! Thank you Comcast Chicago!

This next might apply better to the 6412 thread but...the installer said to leave the box on all of the time as noted elsewhere. One of my family members turned it off and I had NO trouble with it coming back on and displaying a picture (firmware v9.12). I'm not a expert at this but it would seem to me that leaving the unit on all of the time would cause it to constantly record (to the buffer) the currently "viewed" channel...probably causing some reduction to its life...unless the dvi interface tells it when the tv is off...when I turn the tv on the cable box momentarily displays "d01" so there is some kind of communication going on. Am I way off base here???

Have a Happy New Year all!

Originally posted by juggler123
...but it would seem to me that leaving the unit on all of the time would cause it to constantly record (to the buffer) the currently "viewed" channel...probably causing some reduction to its life...

Im pretty sure that the harddrive is buffering even if you turn the power off. When I power off my 6208, the picture on the tv shuts off, but I can still here the harddrive working.

Originally posted by HD Rookie
I pretty sure that the harddrived are buffering even if you turn the power off. When I power off my 6208, the picture on the tv shuts off, but I can still here the harddrive working.

With the power on I hear both the hard drive spinning plus head movement...when I power it off the head movement stops, and returns again when I power it back up. Fortunately (unlike some other reports) my unit is so quiet that I have to stick my ear right next to it to hear anything.

Originally posted by juggler123
he knew what the dvi and optical cables where and how to connect them.

Out of curiosity, do you mean he brought a DVI cable to use? Last I heard Comcast didn't officially support DVI even though the port was active, and installers would only do component hookups of HD boxes.

Originally posted by bmillsap
Out of curiosity, do you mean he brought a DVI cable to use? Last I heard Comcast didn't officially support DVI even though the port was active, and installers would only do component hookups of HD boxes.

No, it was the dvi cable that I originally bought to connect the MOT 5100 to my Sony XBR. Now that I think about it again I actually connected it only because I had the better angle although he tried to connect it. I was just surprised that he didn't have the deer in headlights look to any of this.

..the dvi has been active for me here in st. charles for about 9 months. I currently have a 6412 connected to a sony xbr by a dvi-hdmi cable. Now and again I'll get a glitch that causes the bottom half of the screen to break-up, but all I have to do is turn off the stb box and back ona gain to correct. maybe it's a handshake thing???

I'm in the Chicago area. I recently bought a TV which I hooked up to Comcast basic cable and I'm getting some local HD channels via QAM. I'm having some problems with signal errors for local HD...

The only local channels that's coming in are Fox (117.2) & NBC (117.5). PQ wise, for me OTA works better. With Comcast (QAM), I'm getting a lot of signal errors which produces some video break up (pixelization and blocks). For some reason, other HD/Digital channels in Comcast like some preview channels or Audio-Only channels don't have any signal errors.

Are these signal errors for my Comcast local HD caused by noise on my end or at the cable company's station?

Comcast is using QAM256 for the HD channels. Other digital channels use QAM64. Maybe your tuner has problems, or doesn't fully support, QAM256.

Originally posted by AVjam
I'm in the Chicago area. I recently bought a TV which I hooked up to Comcast basic cable and I'm getting some local HD channels via QAM. I'm having some problems with signal errors for local HD...

The only local channels that's coming in are Fox (117.2) & NBC (117.5). PQ wise, for me OTA works better. With Comcast (QAM), I'm getting a lot of signal errors which produces some video break up (pixelization and blocks). For some reason, other HD/Digital channels in Comcast like some preview channels or Audio-Only channels don't have any signal errors.

Are these signal errors for my Comcast local HD caused by noise on my end or at the cable company's station?

I don't know if you are in a house or a larger building. My hgh-rise condo building had a similar problem. Comcast came out and found that several of their amplifiers were not getting/putting out enough power. All the local HD's appeared immediately when they cranked up the power.

I don't think it's the tuner. The tuner gets some digital movie "preview" channels and it's locked in at QAM256 with zero signal errors. I'm pretty sure other QAM users gets these "preview" channels...;) Plus, the Comcast Local Weather Channel is getting signal errors too and that's QAM64 at 480i. Other QAM64 480i channels comes in perfectly. It seems like only the "local HD - I don't care" channels are getting the errors.

PhillyC might be right because I usually have some fuzzy analog channels. I use a Motorola signal booster to fix the analog problem, but apparently it won't do any good with some HD channels if Comcast's amplifiers aren't putting out enough juice to begin with. The Motorola booster won't be able to replace the ones/zeros if it's missing before the signal arrived to the house. Also, I don't know if using a splitter is contributing to the problem too.

Anyway, sometimes the QAM Fox and NBC HD channels comes in perfect... I guess I'll just use an antenna for the rest until I get Comcast to check for possible problems.


Is this the channel list you guys are using?

Digital Local QAM Channels
108-1 ABC WLS 7
108-2 WB WGN 9
116-1 CBS WBBM 2
116-2 PBS WTTWD 11
117-2 FOX WFLD 12
117-5 NBC WMAQ 5

Anyone else enjoy the New Years HD special at 11:30 pm on WBBM??? They were really pushing the HD and 5.1 audio. Looked and sounded great.

As was Crossroads Guitar festival on wttw dig)..that was awsome!..anyone see THAT?

Has anyone heard when Comcast might add UPN-HD to the mix? AFAIK, WPWR-DT has been broadcasting for almost two months now, so you'd think Comcast would add it to the mix - they were pretty quick about adding WGN and FOX once they went HD.

Im not sure on UPN i know it is availible OTA but i think due to the lack of HD content availible right now it may not be high on their list. Personaly i wouldnt mind seeing UniversalHD or TNTHD sometime soon. Also I would guess we will be getting ESPN2HD when it launches later this month, bandwidth permitting of course.

Whoops, double post. Sorry

Originally posted by Derf
Has anyone heard when Comcast might add UPN-HD to the mix?
I emailed customer service awhile ago asking for them to add it. Got a reply that it was under review or something like that. Obviously nothing has changed. Maybe if they get a lot more requests from people, they will add it. Al

When setting the menu on the Motorola 6200 should I use 1080i or 720P.

This would be for a Sony 42we610 - an lcd RPTV.:confused:

Originally posted by Lee Heytow
When setting the menu on the Motorola 6200 should I use 1080i or 720P.

This would be for a Sony 42we610 - an lcd RPTV.:confused:

720P. I don't think there are any LCD sets capable of 1080i available yet.

Originally posted by FSugino
720P. I don't think there are any LCD sets capable of 1080i available yet.
Experiment and see which looks best to you. They should support 1080i as in input, but will convert to their native format. Sony usually has an oddball 788 lines or so, which makes it confusing as there is no direct correlation.

Originally posted by FSugino
720P. I don't think there are any LCD sets capable of 1080i available yet.

I saw one in person at a shop in appleton, wi the other day, and it was crazy expensive....45" i believe and one of the first (if not the first) to do 1080i

my 2c

Thanks for your help. I'll try it at 720 and see. Think I'll also try a dvi cable on it. I wonder if dvi is active in grayslake?

Also, why is it that all these comcast installers set the box to the default of 480i?

Originally posted by hibs99
I saw one in person at a shop in appleton, wi the other day, and it was crazy expensive....45" i believe and one of the first (if not the first) to do 1080i

my 2c
you must be talking about the Sharp 45" 1080p LCD TV. crazy expensive but comparable price-wise to plasma but without the burn-in, weight, and power consumption. Samsung will have one too but i'm not sure if it's out already...

The last few days I notice that I'm not getting a picture on WLS-DT on channel 187. All other channels are fine, and obviously WLS-DT is transmitting. Any other Chicago-area Comcast customers not getting a signal for this or is it just me?

I'm watching 187 right now - no problems.

Originally posted by bmillsap
The last few days I notice that I'm not getting a picture on WLS-DT on channel 187. All other channels are fine, and obviously WLS-DT is transmitting. Any other Chicago-area Comcast customers not getting a signal for this or is it just me?

It's working here.

tim

Working here too - and it better be until 10:00 :D

Lost AND Alias in HD??? Yay!

Channel Listing
I live in Lindenhurst and am on the McHenry build. I just bought a new Sony RP LCD with a builtin HD capable tuner (60WF655). When I set it up, the TV looked for all the available channels on the cable feed (not through the box). It found a bunch but not all the HD feeds (not sure wich ones I'm missing off the top of my head). Does anyone know where I might find a listing for all the channels above 99 that I receive?

Thanks,
KAD

Here is the channel listing. It is one page back in the thread.
Digital Local QAM Channels
108-1 ABC WLS 7
108-2 WB WGN 9
116-1 CBS WBBM 2
116-2 PBS WTTWD 11
117-2 FOX WFLD 12
117-5 NBC WMAQ 5

Good Afternoon,
I am getting a new 6412 Comcast box installed this week. My question to all of you is it better to have the box connected with the DVI connection or the component connection. On my Dish 921 box the picture is superior in the component mode than the DVI connection mode. The colors look brighter and the who picture looks snappier. Your help is very much appreciated.
Regards Arnie......

Originally posted by Arnier
I am getting a new 6412 Comcast box installed this week. My question to all of you is it better to have the box connected with the DVI connection or the component connection. On my Dish 921 box the picture is superior in the component mode than the DVI connection mode. The colors look brighter and the who picture looks snappier. Your help is very much appreciated.
Regards Arnie......
It's really up to the TV itself. Most have separate video settings for each input (or types of inputs), not always adjustable by the user. The DVI may be configured more correctly, which is why it may seem flatter and less colorful. Most TV's default to having a picture that has too much contrast (near-white boosted to full white, and dark gray pushed to black), too much sharpenss, and too blue of a white, with reds pushed to compensate for the bluish-white.

I just got the 55inch Sony LCD set. Without cablecard, I am getting some stations but I can only find WLS and WGN HD stations. Anyone else in Wheeling know if the other networks are available somewhere? Thanks.

This is what I've found so far..

92.1 = WLS-HD
92.2 = WGN-HD
120.4 = TV Asia?
116.1-8 = "No Signal"
108.2-7 = "No Signal"
108.1 = NBA League Pass ad
87.10 = Movie or on demand station?
91.10 = Weatherscan
94.21-29 = music
86.21-40 = music
103.1-54 = music
112.21-28 = music
84.21-25 = music
101.1-12 = "No Signal"
100.1-7 = "No Signal"
94.10 = International Channel?
85.3 = ondemand preview station...weird double screen
84.60 = "No Signal"

Originally posted by LaxStar18
Here is the channel listing. It is one page back in the thread.
Digital Local QAM Channels
108-1 ABC WLS 7
108-2 WB WGN 9
116-1 CBS WBBM 2
116-2 PBS WTTWD 11
117-2 FOX WFLD 12
117-5 NBC WMAQ 5

I saw that list before, but it doesn't match up with what I get. That's why I assume different areas have different channel lineups. Does Comcast publish a list for each area like they do for their cable box line ups?

Originally posted by drengka
I saw that list before, but it doesn't match up with what I get. That's why I assume different areas have different channel lineups. Does Comcast publish a list for each area like they do for their cable box line ups?

The only channel listings Comcast has are for what the official cable boxes use. TV's seem to use the analog equivalent channel, with the dot-sub channel.

Here in Schaumburg, using the Diagnostic menu on my Comcast/Motorola box, WLS-DT, WGN-DT, and ABC News Now are all on 633MHz. That is analog channel 92 (the cable box lists the center frequency, wheras most listings use the bottom or Video frequency.) WMAQ and WFLD are on 741MHz (115). WBBM and WTTW are on 735MHz (114).

You can get a frequency list here:
http://www.jneuhaus.com/fccindex/cablech.html

Make certain all cable is RG6 and all splitters are rated 5MHz-1000MHz. My list (I didn't check EVERY channel) shows frequencies as high as 759MHz (analog cable 118, or broadcast 62). Also, the HD channels use 256QAM, which is more sensitive to noise or other problems than the 64QAM used by the regular digital channels.

I noticed the other day that On Demand is now available in Lakeview! Gotta love how they just keep adding services.

Hello. My Comcast DVR 6412 just shut of by itself and now.. It displays

"dl" with a moving dot. Anyone have this on their DVR?

When I unplugged and plug it in.. it says
"E309" then "hunt" then "fr 1"


It is stuck at that and I can't get anywhere?!!!!!

Originally posted by memnoch
you must be talking about the Sharp 45" 1080p LCD TV. crazy expensive but comparable price-wise to plasma but without the burn-in, weight, and power consumption. Samsung will have one too but i'm not sure if it's out already...

I saw quite a bit 1080P displays at CES.
If your interested.
Link to photos I took (http://www.pbase.com/jsjames/ces_2005)

Originally posted by acaoacao
Hello. My Comcast DVR 6412 just shut of by itself and now.. It displays

"dl" with a moving dot. Anyone have this on their DVR?

When I unplugged and plug it in.. it says
"E309" then "hunt" then "fr 1"


It is stuck at that and I can't get anywhere?!!!!!

Sounds like Comcast was trying to send a firmware upgrade to your box. Try calling them and ask to send a hit to your box. Hopefully nothing got screwed up.

Originally posted by vj9999
Sounds like Comcast was trying to send a firmware upgrade to your box. Try calling them and ask to send a hit to your box. Hopefully nothing got screwed up.
I believe dl stands for "download" and like vj said, your box was being upgraded. The rule of thumb is to never unplug/interrupt a download. Hopefully a "hit" will help you, but chances are probably 50/50 that the box is toast.

Well, The download is finish. My box was previously a black box.. meaning I got all the premium channels that I didn't pay for..

Well, the DL removed all channel tiers that I did not subscribe to... doh!

I just purchased a 60" Sony (KDF-60XS955) and want to upgrade from my DirectTV digital package. The only HD programming I'm getting now is with an indoor antenna.
I live in the Midway airport area, and I'm not sure if I should go through the hassle and expense of an outdoor antenna.
While browsing through the posts here, it appears everyone has Comcast. I'm assuming that everyone that has already explored the options has decided Comcast is this best option for receiving HD programming.
Is Comcast that much better than DirectTV or Dishnetwork with PQ and available programming?
Sorry if this seems basic to you brainiacs. I'm just a few years from putting foil on my rabbit ears and trying to play catch up! ;-)
Thanks,
John

Sorry for what is sure to be a redundant post, but I tried searching and looking back through old messages and couldn't find confirmation.

Is the 6214 the dual-tuner HD PVR? I've currently got a 6208, and while the interface REALLY bites, I'd still love to have a dual tuner version. How much does the 6214 cost? Do I just call comcast and request it?

Thanks in advance.

Originally posted by jjarmoc
Sorry for what is sure to be a redundant post, but I tried searching and looking back through old messages and couldn't find confirmation.

Is the 6214 the dual-tuner HD PVR? I've currently got a 6208, and while the interface REALLY bites, I'd still love to have a dual tuner version. How much does the 6214 cost? Do I just call comcast and request it?

Thanks in advance.

6412 is the dual tuner DVR. It costs on 4 cents more a month. They will however charge you installation fee (although depending who you talk to they might be willing to waive it). And user interface on 6412 is much much improved from 6208.

Originally posted by HD Rookie
I believe dl stands for "download" and like vj said, your box was being upgraded. The rule of thumb is to never unplug/interrupt a download. Hopefully a "hit" will help you, but chances are probably 50/50 that the box is toast.

My question is, why the heck would they do this in the middle of prime-time programming and not at 3 am? Would the download occur if a recording was in process?

Hey guys, my box got the download in the middle of the day yesterday too. Now I have On Demand access. The question I have is, since I already subscribe to HBO, can I watch HBO On Demand movies for free, or will charges show up on my bill? Also, curiously, my On Demand button on the remote doesn't work, but I can get to it via the menu... wierd.

Next, has anyone heard anything about a possible release date for Moxi DVR's here?

Take Care,
Grey

If you subscribe to HBO, HBO On Demand content will be free. If anything costs money, you will be promted about the charge before you can watch the program.

Excellent. Makes On Demand much more usable for me... So how does this work? When you pick an on demand movie, does it start buffering to your hard drive? And what if you decide that you want to wait until later and you go back to live TV? Does it finish downloading the movie to your hard drive? How much space do these take up? Or do they at all?

Thanks for the info!

-Grey

Originally posted by johnedelux
I just purchased a 60" Sony (KDF-60XS955) and want to upgrade from my DirectTV digital package. The only HD programming I'm getting now is with an indoor antenna.
I live in the Midway airport area, and I'm not sure if I should go through the hassle and expense of an outdoor antenna.
While browsing through the posts here, it appears everyone has Comcast. I'm assuming that everyone that has already explored the options has decided Comcast is this best option for receiving HD programming.
Is Comcast that much better than DirectTV or Dishnetwork with PQ and available programming?
Sorry if this seems basic to you brainiacs. I'm just a few years from putting foil on my rabbit ears and trying to play catch up! ;-)
Thanks,
John

I recently switched from the Directtv HD package to the Comcast HD DVR service. I have to say I am very pleased with the switch. It has been a constant struggle for me to get a reliable HD picture on the OTA locals. I've even had problems with transponder signal strength on some of my satellite HD signals. When all is working the DirectTV package is nice and a little cheaper than a similar package through Comcast. The advantages of Comcast include a more reliable HD signal on locals, with directtv you receive east code feeds of the network channels or thru OTA. The 2 tuner HD DVR box is great and only costs 10$/month versus the roughly 900$ upfront cost for an equivalent DirectTV box. The DVR functionality has been truly wonderful and very reliable in my experience. DirectTV does tend to add new HD content providers quicker than Comcast though. If your are satisfied with your OTA and are not interested in recording HD or pausing HD live TV then stay with DirectTV. Otherwise I would whole heartedly recommend Comcast HD DVR service.

Originally posted by Greyhawk68
Excellent. Makes On Demand much more usable for me... So how does this work? When you pick an on demand movie, does it start buffering to your hard drive? And what if you decide that you want to wait until later and you go back to live TV? Does it finish downloading the movie to your hard drive? How much space do these take up? Or do they at all?

Thanks for the info!

-Grey

It has nothingh to do with your DVR and hard drive. On demand programming is stored on Comcasts headend and when you order something it is treamed to your box. You can pause, play, ff,rew , but you won't get any fancy features like with DVR (no 30 second skip, or 15 second replay or ff at higher speed). If you stop the movie, it will remember where you stopped it and most programms hava a "rental" window. So it will keep it in your "Saved Programs" for the length of rental window (usually 24 hours on movies).

Thanks Glowkiss for your response. Since you've had both DirectTv Hd and Comcast HD, I was wondering if the analog and digital channels were comparable in PQ?
I really apreciate your time. Thanks!
John

I recently switched from the Directtv HD package to the Comcast HD DVR service. I have to say I am very pleased with the switch. It has been a constant struggle for me to get a reliable HD picture on the OTA locals. I've even had problems with transponder signal strength on some of my satellite HD signals. When all is working the DirectTV package is nice and a little cheaper than a similar package through Comcast. The advantages of Comcast include a more reliable HD signal on locals, with directtv you receive east code feeds of the network channels or thru OTA. The 2 tuner HD DVR box is great and only costs 10$/month versus the roughly 900$ upfront cost for an equivalent DirectTV box. The DVR functionality has been truly wonderful and very reliable in my experience. DirectTV does tend to add new HD content providers quicker than Comcast though. If your are satisfied with your OTA and are not interested in recording HD or pausing HD live TV then stay with DirectTV. Otherwise I would whole heartedly recommend Comcast HD DVR service.

Anyone heard any rumblings about HD channel additions?

Originally posted by johnedelux
Thanks Glowkiss for your response. Since you've had both DirectTv Hd and Comcast HD, I was wondering if the analog and digital channels were comparable in PQ?
I really apreciate your time. Thanks!
John


The Analog channels on Comcast are definitely inferior to most of the DirectTV channels as well as the Comcast digital channels. I don't watch many of the Analog channels though. MTV and UPN(Enterprise) are probably the only exceptions. Hopefully UPN HD will be on Comcast soon. Check the Comcast Digital channel line-up to see if there are any important channels missing for you. That may help in your decision. Considering I watch mostly the network channels and ESPN, so It was a no-brainer for me.

Originally posted by johnedelux
Thanks Glowkiss for your response. Since you've had both DirectTv Hd and Comcast HD, I was wondering if the analog and digital channels were comparable in PQ?
I really apreciate your time. Thanks!
John



One thing to note is that Comcast will be simulcasting all of the existing analog channels in digital this year. That should improve PQ.