Not familiar with this specific tuner, but on mine, I had to enable the "Digital Cable" option or something similar in a setup menu. Does yours have something similar?

It gives four options when it's memorizing channels: over-the-air, standard cable, HRC cable and IRC cable. The only thing I get any channels on is standard cable. (And over-the-air when it's connected to an antenna)

NFLHD is on channel 169.

Got it here. This is nice so I don't have to worry about the INHD problem of last year when they did not show 2 games in HD, just sd. In the two years i've had comcast, this past month has been the most active in terms of HD, five new channels.

I've got it too but it says not authorized[it's not worth the $6.99 they're charging for the sports tier, they should just raise our rates the $1 or so it'd cost to put the channel back where it belongs imho]. :mad:

I've got it too but it says not authorized[it's not worth the $6.99 they're charging for the sports tier, they should just raise our rates the $1 or so it'd cost to put the channel back where it belongs imho]. :mad:

Here's the Channels listed in the Sports Tier:

168 NFL Network
182 Ovation
260 TV Games
268 Gol TV Sports
401 Fox Soccer Channel Sports
406 Outdoor Channel Sports
408 Speed Channel Sports
413 FCS Atlantic
414 FCS Central
415 FCS Pacific
416 The Sportsman Channel Sports
417 Tennis Channel Sports
418 CSTV Sports
439 NBA TV
506 Fox Movie Channel

I will watch 6 or 7 of these channels, NFL quite a bit, so this is definitely worth it to me. Plus, If Comcast gets its way, the Big Ten Network will be in this tier aw well. Big Ten Network plans on broadcasting about 70% of its programming in HD, so I'm sure it would also add another HD channel.

Fox Movie Channel :confused:?

Fox Movie Channel :confused:?
Since they moved NFL and Outdoor channel to the sports tier, they should move FoxMovies and Ovation to Digital Plus.

Here's the Channels listed in the Sports Tier:

168 NFL Network
182 Ovation
260 TV Games
268 Gol TV Sports
401 Fox Soccer Channel Sports
406 Outdoor Channel Sports
408 Speed Channel Sports
413 FCS Atlantic
414 FCS Central
415 FCS Pacific
416 The Sportsman Channel Sports
417 Tennis Channel Sports
418 CSTV Sports
439 NBA TV
506 Fox Movie Channel

I will watch 6 or 7 of these channels, NFL quite a bit, so this is definitely worth it to me. Plus, If Comcast gets its way, the Big Ten Network will be in this tier aw well. Big Ten Network plans on broadcasting about 70% of its programming in HD, so I'm sure it would also add another HD channel.

169 - NFLHD

I've heard there's a deal out there for the Sports Tier for 12 months for $1.99 i'm going to try to get that deal[i've tried once before but failed].

I've heard there's a deal out there for the Sports Tier for 12 months for $1.99 i'm going to try to get that deal[i've tried once before but failed].

I tried but failed too. They said, maximum they could give was for $1.99 for 3 months. I took. After 3 months, might back down to Digital Starter + Sports Pkg. We will see.

I might try for the 3 month deal then another 3 and another 3 ad finitum.

I have Comcast for the HD, I checked into getting Dish Network but for the same channels I get now it would've cost more than i'm paying now.

I just got a Sony KDL 40S3000 with a QAM tuner. I'm in Evanston and have Comcast's Digital Starter Package and cannot get the Motorola DCT5100 HDTV equipment due to space constraints. I can get CBS in HD on channel 2.1, but I get a message saying, "now tuning/no signal" when I try to get NBC in HD on channel 5.1. Is there any way to get NBC in HD without getting the HDTV set-top box?

Is there some way to integrate Comcast digital cable with an HDTV antenna so I can get both cable channels and broadcast networks in HD?

thanks for your help :)

you should be getting an hd signal for channel 5.1 directly through the comcat cable..if you can get 2.1, 7.1, and 32.1, you should be able to get 5.1...

you should be getting an hd signal for channel 5.1 directly through the comcat cable..if you can get 2.1, 7.1, and 32.1, you should be able to get 5.1...
I get 2.1, 7.1, and 32.1, but not 5.1. Any suggestions?

Can you enter the 5.1 or 5.2 manually via your remote?
Have you tried to re-scan the channels?
Is there a setting in the channel scan menu that says "find all digital channels", or something like that?

can you get 9.1 or 9.2?

otherwise, I would get a tech over to check things out...

Can you enter the 5.1 or 5.2 manually via your remote?
Have you tried to re-scan the channels?
Is there a setting in the channel scan menu that says "find all digital channels", or something like that?

can you get 9.1 or 9.2?

otherwise, I would get a tech over to check things out...
5.2 is NBC-HD in western suburbs (Naperville) on Comcast. And I don't think it would do any good to call them. They are completely ignorant of getting the local HD channels via QAM and will deny that it's even possible at least when I talked to them once (if they aren't trained for it, it doesn't exist).

Does your tv have 2 antenna inputs? If so, hook up the cable to the cable one and an antenna to the ATSC one. Note, CBS-HD is a VHF channel and you would need a VHF-UHF antenna for it.

5.2 worked! Thanks Phil and wase! :)

I emailed Comcast yesterday to ask about any deals for the sports tier and got a reply today that there is a deal available....I wonder if it's the 3 month for $1.99 one.

I emailed Comcast yesterday to ask about any deals for the sports tier and got a reply today that there is a deal available....I wonder if it's the 3 month for $1.99 one.
They told you there is a deal available, but didn't tell you what the deal is? :confused:

typical comcast response..

Here's the Channels listed in the Sports Tier:

168 NFL Network
182 Ovation
260 TV Games
268 Gol TV Sports
401 Fox Soccer Channel Sports
406 Outdoor Channel Sports
408 Speed Channel Sports
413 FCS Atlantic
414 FCS Central
415 FCS Pacific
416 The Sportsman Channel Sports
417 Tennis Channel Sports
418 CSTV Sports
439 NBA TV
506 Fox Movie Channel

I will watch 6 or 7 of these channels, NFL quite a bit, so this is definitely worth it to me. Plus, If Comcast gets its way, the Big Ten Network will be in this tier aw well. Big Ten Network plans on broadcasting about 70% of its programming in HD, so I'm sure it would also add another HD channel.

Big Ten Network in HD on Comcast? Who says this is coming, and when? Are any of these channels HD?

413 FCS Atlantic
414 FCS Central
415 FCS Pacific

I have to call to find out what the deal is but I haven't as of yet.......no the Fox College Sports channels are not HD.

Speed Channel's not in the sports tier here btw.

If I can get broadcast networks in HD just by using a coaxial cable to connect my TV [which has a QAM tuner] to the cable outlet, does that mean that if I pay for Digital Classic, I can get HD cable channels like HGTV HD without renting an HD box from Comcast?

thanks for your help :)

no, unfortunately you will either need a box, or a free cable card, to get any channel higher than about 135 or so.. and trying to get a brain surgeon from Comcast to get a cable card to work is about a 5% probability...

no, unfortunately you will either need a box, or a free cable card, to get any channel higher than about 135 or so.. and trying to get a brain surgeon from Comcast to get a cable card to work is about a 5% probability...
My Sony KDL 40S3000 apparently does not have CableCard functionality. :/

Is the restriction on channels > 135 a limitation of QAM tuners, or is it a Comcast decision to require a box on those channels?

My Sony KDL 40S3000 apparently does not have CableCard functionality. :/

Is the restriction on channels > 135 a limitation of QAM tuners, or is it a Comcast decision to require a box on those channels?

Don't confuse the numbers :)

Digital Cable box channels are just mapped channels and can have any virtual number Comcast wishes to assign to them. Digital channels start at 100 and go up.

Now with a tuner when you say channels 2-135 you are reffering to analog channels. One analog channel is about 6Mhz and can fit 10+ digital channels or 2-3 HD channels.

When your QAM tuner tunes to channel 123 it has no correlation to channel 123 on the digital cable box. Digital box channel 456 could be a sub channel on actual physical channel 120.

In other words all the channels that Comcast is offering are actually broadcast in 2-135 range.

Most of the channels are encrypted and you need a box or CableCard t be able to watch them.

I found out they lied there is no deal :mad:

I broke down and ordered the sports tier anyhow.

Have a quick question guys. I live in Chicago suburb and have basic comcast cable. I get 2.1, 5.2, 7.1, 9.2, 32.1 1080i/720p channels. I'd like to have Discovery, History in HD. How much do they usually charge for these? I always get involved in their crap deals, so this time I want to be sure, that they won't rip off me before I make a call. My TV has a tuner, so I guess I don't need their box? Thank you.

For all the good it will do, I felt the need to email the President of Comcast Cable after being screwed out of the NFL channel recently. This after a frustrating chat with a "service" rep. who just couldn't explain a) the reasoning behind removing channels I pay for to new tiers, or b) whether the tier was available in my area, since the website said it wasn't.

Here is the letter to steve_burke@cable.comcast.com

To: Steve Burke, President Comcast Corporation

Mr. Burke:

I have been a Comcast cable and internet customer my entire adult life. I pay a premium bill ($175) each month and I am glad to do so. I have never had serious support or service issues and the quality and delivery of your products have been top notch.

That being said, it pains me to have to complain so loudly – but I must do so. It is my sincere hope that this will be read and digested in the context of customer service at the highest level. Recently, the decision was made by your cable division to remove the NFL network from my programming abruptly and to a new service tier, the Sports Entertainment package. Additionally a new NFL HD channel is blocked from my service even though I have paid for HD programming since there was only a handful of channel available. This is unacceptable, and if you are a football fan, you know that discovering this right before the season starts seems maddeningly cruel.

In addition, all attempts to find pricing or availability for this package have failed. I do not intend to buy yet another package on top of what I have – I do not think I should have to pay more for a channel I already pay for. I researched this merely to be more informed.

I am aware that channel lineups are shuffled all the time, but in the past, this has generally been to the benefit of your subscribers. In this case, it appears as though Comcast has directly taken a stance of forcing loyal customers to buy increasingly specialized and expensive service packages. I believe that this business model is not indicative of what I have come to expect of your company as a loyal customer and I hope that in time it will be reconsidered.

Sincerely,
Daniel J. DeLawter

Comcast Account # XXXX

nice letter; it will be interesting to see if and how he or his secretary replies..

I was subscribing to Sports tier anyway so no big deal.

I think NFL and Comcast are both in wrong here.

Comcast all of sudden found morals to "protect" it customers who are not interested in NFL network from paying for it anyway (I think NFL wanted .70 or $1 per subscriber). NFL though it could get away with charging high for it and that's why it took 6 games and put it exclusively to NFL network to lure NFL fans.

Have a quick question guys. I live in Chicago suburb and have basic comcast cable. I get 2.1, 5.2, 7.1, 9.2, 32.1 1080i/720p channels. I'd like to have Discovery, History in HD. How much do they usually charge for these? I always get involved in their crap deals, so this time I want to be sure, that they won't rip off me before I make a call. My TV has a tuner, so I guess I don't need their box? Thank you.
If your TV has a CableCard slot, you can get the non-broadcast digital channels, but will need to subscribe to Digital Starter or Classic. Otherwise, you will need a cable box. All of the non-broadcast channels are encrypted, and need a CableCard (newer cable boxes have CableCard in them now) or an older cable box with built-in security.

Also, there is currently no History-HD. Discovery HD Theater is a totally different schedule than the regular Discovery channel. Oddly, the guide lists some Discovery channel shows, (Dirty Jobs , etc..) as HD, but they are not on HDTheater.

If your TV has a CableCard slot, you can get the non-broadcast digital channels, but will need to subscribe to Digital Starter or Classic. Otherwise, you will need a cable box. All of the non-broadcast channels are encrypted, and need a CableCard (newer cable boxes have CableCard in them now) or an older cable box with built-in security.

Also, there is currently no History-HD. Discovery HD Theater is a totally different schedule than the regular Discovery channel. Oddly, the guide lists some Discovery channel shows, (Dirty Jobs , etc..) as HD, but they are not on HDTheater.

I meant regular Discovery HD, not Theater. I don't think my TV has CableCard. It says in the manual "Does not include CableCard functionality". Digital Starter cost $52.98/month. Considering what I pay now, $52.98 is expensive for me. So, i guess there aren't many choices here, so probably I'm going to stick with my local HD channels. Thanks for the help.

I meant regular Discovery HD, not Theater. I don't think my TV has CableCard. It says in the manual "Does not include CableCard functionality". Digital Starter cost $52.98/month. Considering what I pay now, $52.98 is expensive for me. So, i guess there aren't many choices here, so probably I'm going to stick with my local HD channels. Thanks for the help.


Comcast does not carry that channel yet. Dish Network just added it yesterday & is carrying Discovery HD Theater as well, but as of now HD Theater is the only HD Discovery channel we have.

Does anyone know if the Governor has signed that cable bill that was passed a while ago?

yes, he did, so get ready for lots of new choices!

yes, he did, so get ready for lots of new choices!

Thanks for the update! I heard that Verizon is not in our future, but one can always hope.

well, i havent heard that at all..as a matter of fact, I bet Verizon shows up here really soon..
As you have seen, ATT is going gangbusters here now, so its only a matter of time for Verizon..

As you have seen, ATT is going gangbusters here now, so its only a matter of time for Verizon..
Really?? I think I've missed somthing then. Last I heard AT&T was sueing a bunch a suburbs, but that's been about a year ago. I haven't seen or heard of anything new in recent months.

well, they are laying new lines all through my neighboorhood, where they never were before, and they are offering all sorts of services to me that weren't availa le 6 months ago.I live in the sw suburbs, if that means anything..
Plus, I have talked to verizon several times in the last 60 days,, and they claim chicago is number 2 in line now for their services..that means it may take 6-12 months before we actually see them, but they are definately coming here, now that "Rod" has signed the cable bill...

I have talked to verizon several times in the last 60 days,, and they claim chicago is number 2 in line now for their services..that means it may take 6-12 months before we actually see them, but they are definately coming here, now that "Rod" has signed the cable bill...

That's great news! I had read that they were going to sell off their midwest rights (or something like that). The more choices the better.

Hi all,
so, after being stuck in RCN hell for the last 8 months, I finally was able to get Comcast service again this morning.
Now, the weird part is that every twenty mins or so, I get a weird error on my screen that says Cable Card pairing error. Now, I'm using the 3416, and not a cable card, I don't even think my TV has a cable card slot.
Has anyone seen an error like this?
Thanks!
David

Hi,

I'm considering moving either to Elmhurst or Hinsdale.

What's the quality of Comcast service like over there?

its just like anywhere else..it depends on your node, and how the wiring is to your house..

Hi all,
so, after being stuck in RCN hell for the last 8 months, I finally was able to get Comcast service again this morning.
Now, the weird part is that every twenty mins or so, I get a weird error on my screen that says Cable Card pairing error. Now, I'm using the 3416, and not a cable card, I don't even think my TV has a cable card slot.
Has anyone seen an error like this?
Thanks!
David

Since July 1st, I believe every cable box has to have a cable card associated with it. You may not see the card (it should have been pre-paired), but if you just got the box, it came with a card.

They don't HAVE to use a CableCard box. They can still reuse older boxes. It's just that all NEW boxes have to have the CableCard.

The new DCH3416, which has a more modern look, has a MultiStream CableCard in the back, with a cover locking it in.

I signed up for Digital Start and Sports Pkg with HD/DVR. I get NFLHD. I get regular ESPN and ESPN but no ESPN HD.

I believe, comcast is out of bound with this. One would expect to get ESPN HD as it is major sports channel. I am wondering if ESPN is aware of this or not.

What is right way to file a report? Talking to CSR is useless. Do you guys think that that is genunie request to ask for ESPN HD with Sports Pkg. If they show NFL regular and NFL HD with sports pkg then why can't they show ESPN HD.

Im not sure what is included with the Digital Start package but I can tell you ESPNHD and ESPN2HD are not part of the sports package, I believe you need to have at least digital classic to receive them. Do you get the other non local HD channels? (ex. Discovery, TNT, Food)

I have a new Dell 410 that came with a TV Tuner card. Is there anyway to make this work like a QAM tuner so I can get some of that local free HD content?

I have a new Dell 410 that came with a TV Tuner card. Is there anyway to make this work like a QAM tuner so I can get some of that local free HD content?

Yes you can make your computer work like a QAM tuner. Buy the fusionhdtv card or hdhomerun card

Im not sure what is included with the Digital Start package but I can tell you ESPNHD and ESPN2HD are not part of the sports package, I believe you need to have at least digital classic to receive them. Do you get the other non local HD channels? (ex. Discovery, TNT, Food)

I knew when I signed up that ESPN HD was not included. The frustration is that one would expect that ESPN HD would be part of Sports Pkg just like NFL HD is. No, I do not get TNT HD, Discovery HD etc which is fine but I do get all local HD and NFL HD.

I do have regular ESPN.

I signed up for Digital Start and Sports Pkg with HD/DVR. I get NFLHD. I get regular ESPN and ESPN but no ESPN HD.

I believe, comcast is out of bound with this. One would expect to get ESPN HD as it is major sports channel. I am wondering if ESPN is aware of this or not.

What is right way to file a report? Talking to CSR is useless. Do you guys think that that is genunie request to ask for ESPN HD with Sports Pkg. If they show NFL regular and NFL HD with sports pkg then why can't they show ESPN HD.

In Boston Classic is NEEDED for ESPN HD but Starter is sufficent for ESPN2HD.

In Boston Classic is NEEDED for ESPN HD but Starter is sufficent for ESPN2HD.

Thanks! We don't get ESPN2HD with Digital Starter in Chicago. I don't quite understand the purpose of Sport Pkg anymore, for that matter I don't understand much about Digital Starter as well. For me personally, I took Sport Pkg since I wanted NFL HD. Took Starter so I could keep HD-DVR. I would like to have other HDs which are part of Classic but I have to draw the line somewhere.

For all the good it will do, I felt the need to email the President of Comcast Cable after being screwed out of the NFL channel recently. This after a frustrating chat with a "service" rep. who just couldn't explain a) the reasoning behind removing channels I pay for to new tiers, or b) whether the tier was available in my area, since the website said it wasn't.

Here is the letter to steve_burke@cable.comcast.com

To: Steve Burke, President Comcast Corporation

Mr. Burke:

I have been a Comcast cable and internet customer my entire adult life. I pay a premium bill ($175) each month and I am glad to do so. I have never had serious support or service issues and the quality and delivery of your products have been top notch.

That being said, it pains me to have to complain so loudly – but I must do so. It is my sincere hope that this will be read and digested in the context of customer service at the highest level. Recently, the decision was made by your cable division to remove the NFL network from my programming abruptly and to a new service tier, the Sports Entertainment package. Additionally a new NFL HD channel is blocked from my service even though I have paid for HD programming since there was only a handful of channel available. This is unacceptable, and if you are a football fan, you know that discovering this right before the season starts seems maddeningly cruel.

In addition, all attempts to find pricing or availability for this package have failed. I do not intend to buy yet another package on top of what I have – I do not think I should have to pay more for a channel I already pay for. I researched this merely to be more informed.

I am aware that channel lineups are shuffled all the time, but in the past, this has generally been to the benefit of your subscribers. In this case, it appears as though Comcast has directly taken a stance of forcing loyal customers to buy increasingly specialized and expensive service packages. I believe that this business model is not indicative of what I have come to expect of your company as a loyal customer and I hope that in time it will be reconsidered.

Sincerely,
Daniel J. DeLawter

Comcast Account # XXXX


Here was the reply - we'll see what happens from here:

Dear Mr. DeLawter,

Thank you for the email.

The NFL issue is complex, but I want to make sure we treat you like the premium customer you are. I have copied Steve Reimer, the person who runs our business in Illinois, so that he can get back to you.

Steve Burke

I knew when I signed up that ESPN HD was not included. The frustration is that one would expect that ESPN HD would be part of Sports Pkg just like NFL HD is. No, I do not get TNT HD, Discovery HD etc which is fine but I do get all local HD and NFL HD.

I do have regular ESPN.
They should allow ESPN and ESPN2 to be available in both packages. If you only want sports, then you pay for the sports tier and get ESPN and ESPN2. Or you pay for the Classic package and get the ESPN's and other channels.

Can anyone tell me the local number for the comcast office in Carpentersville IL?

Also has anyone been able to successfully pick up a cablecard from that office or do they still make a tech come out and install it?

I knew when I signed up that ESPN HD was not included. The frustration is that one would expect that ESPN HD would be part of Sports Pkg just like NFL HD is. No, I do not get TNT HD, Discovery HD etc which is fine but I do get all local HD and NFL HD.

I do have regular ESPN.

That's strange... I have ESPN in HD? Channel 173 as well as several football channels. Never subscribed to any other packages except the HD and ...forget what it's called but basically one step up from the base programming.

Can anyone tell me the local number for the comcast office in Carpentersville IL?866-594-1234.

Are others experiancing a lot of audio dropouts lately? This happens a lot on MSNBC (has for the last 2 years), but also on many other channels.

I live in the Wheeling area.

866-594-1234.

That just gets your a comcast call center, if you notice all chicagoland offices list that number.

The only other nearby number I can find that you can maybe try is:

Comcast Cable Communications, Inc.
350 Congress Parkway
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
(815) 301-1050

I remember actually looking for that office a few years back (that address is only a few blocks away from me), but when I went into the office suite, there was no such address listed on any door! I have no idea what the number is actually for.

They must really go out of there way to keep secretive.

I've searched high and low, and there isn't a more specific number for Carpentersville listed anywhere that I can find.

I know there is also an office up in McHenry, on Rte. 120 (I've been there), but there's no number to be found for that one either.

Yeah I have been to the carpentersville office before but would really like to know if they have cablecards in stock for pickup or if they still require a tech to install them

I tried that crystal lake number, just get call failed on the cell. Did you try calling?

Not for a few years. But it's still listed in our latest phone book. I think I got the same results back then. Must be some kind of "phantom office" or something.

Are others experiancing a lot of audio dropouts lately? This happens a lot on MSNBC (has for the last 2 years), but also on many other channels.

I live in the Wheeling area.
Do you have digital cable? If so, you may have signal issues. Are the dropouts associated with any pixelation?

Do you have digital cable? If so, you may have signal issues. Are the dropouts associated with any pixelation?
Yes there is usually pixelation when the audio drops out. I do have digital cable but this also happens on the the bedroom TV which is only recieving analog channels direct from the cable (MSNBC is channel 64 in this area).

I emailed Comcast last year about the constant audio dropouts on MSNBC, and they replyed that there were some issues that they were working on. I figured that after a year it should be fixed, so now I'm wondering if it's just me or are other folks having the same problem.

Yes there is usually pixelation when the audio drops out. I do have digital cable but this also happens on the the bedroom TV which is only recieving analog channels direct from the cable (MSNBC is channel 64 in this area).

I emailed Comcast last year about the constant audio dropouts on MSNBC, and they replyed that there were some issues that they were working on. I figured that after a year it should be fixed, so now I'm wondering if it's just me or are other folks having the same problem.

Audio dropouts and pixilation when using analog cable from a cable hooked directly to your tv is an indication of a problem at the cable company, not your home.

Anyone else seeing issues with WGN-HD? Audio is fine, video looks like it's going in slow motion. I first saw it during the Cubs game last night, and again during the noon news. Doesn't seem to be an issue for syndicated content, so maybe a production issue on their end. SD channel doesn't exhibit this problem.

Hi folks-

I'm in Chicago and looking to upgrade my comcast service to HD but trying to get info from the CS reps has been like pulling teeth. I currently have the DCT700 and understand I'll need a new box if I want to receive HD. Does anyone know which model STB you get from Comcast when upgrading to HD? Also, if I go the HD-DVR route, which STB(s) does Comcast set you up with? Also, is there only 1 non-DVR and 1 DVR for HD or should I be given choices of models?

In terms of service packages, I currently have the base package that comes with the Triple Play. I think its the Enhanced Cable with Comcast OnDemand? If I want to receive ESPN, Discover, Food, etc., will I need to upgrade my service package? If so, what do I need to upgrade to?

Thanks in advance for your help

3412 or 3416 are the newest ones

Anyone else seeing issues with WGN-HD? Audio is fine, video looks like it's going in slow motion. I first saw it during the Cubs game last night....Hmmmm....I don't know - the Cubs always look like they're playing in slow motion to me ;).

Hmmmm....I don't know - the Cubs always look like they're playing in slow motion to me ;).
You won't say that in october, when you see them playing the Yankees in the Series..:p

I watched the first episode of Mad Men in HD with OnDemand a couple weeks ago but now it seems to be gone. Anyone know the reason for it?

Also, what with HBO's HD OnDemand offerings? Currently, it's two Justin Timberlake videos. HBO can do better than that.

I watched the first episode of Mad Men in HD with OnDemand a couple weeks ago but now it seems to be gone. Anyone know the reason for it?
I saw a post on a Broadband Reports forum that they may be back. They apparantly were pulled so they could be replaced with corrected ones. I guess the original copies had audio and subtitle problems.

Some new messages on the box here in Schaumburg, both occurring 9/18:
MusicChoice is rearranging their channels. Details can be found here:
http://www.musicchoice.com/channellineupchange/
Just add 700 to the channel numbers for the channel numbers used here.

Channel 482, which was Black Family Channel until it shut down a few months ago, and has since been just broadcasting Gospel Music Channel, will shut down on 9/18. GMC will still be on 475.

I've also noticed Comcast running ads about why they are not carrying Big10 network. I side with Comcast here. Prices are high enough as it is to keep paying for narrow-market channels I don't want. That is what the Sports Tier is for.

Here in Schaumburg, the analog feed for channel 14 (WYIN) is dead, but the ADS version is working. The 3 local channels (village, park district, library) are dead on both feeds.

I saw a post on a Broadband Reports forum that they [Mad Men episodes in HD] may be back. They apparently were pulled so they could be replaced with corrected ones. I guess the original copies had audio and subtitle problems.

I just checked, and they have returned. I gave up watching it in HD due to those glitches. I haven't actually watched one, though, so I don't know if that has been corrected. Update: Just watched the latest episode. No audio problems encountered.

Some new messages on the box here in Schaumburg, both occurring 9/18:
MusicChoice is rearranging their channels. Details can be found here:
http://www.musicchoice.com/channellineupchange/
Just add 700 to the channel numbers for the channel numbers used here.

Channel 482, which was Black Family Channel until it shut down a few months ago, and has since been just broadcasting Gospel Music Channel, will shut down on 9/18. GMC will still be on 475.

I've also noticed Comcast running ads about why they are not carrying Big10 network. I side with Comcast here. Prices are high enough as it is to keep paying for narrow-market channels I don't want. That is what the Sports Tier is for.


I agree, sports tier is the proper placement for this, but, carriage should include ALL feeds. BTN says 80% of their games will be broadcast in HD, Comcast should carry them in HD. Also, their will be many times when 2,3 or more games are on at the same time. ALT channels should be used to show all of these games live. If they can't agree to carry the full channel, then they shouldn't even bother. Also, now would be a real good time for them to add ESPNU, Time Warner has just reached agreement to carry it in many areas.

I agree, sports tier is the proper placement for this, but, carriage should include ALL feeds. BTN says 80% of their games will be broadcast in HD, Comcast should carry them in HD. Also, their will be many times when 2,3 or more games are on at the same time. ALT channels should be used to show all of these games live. If they can't agree to carry the full channel, then they shouldn't even bother. Also, now would be a real good time for them to add ESPNU, Time Warner has just reached agreement to carry it in many areas.
One issue to remember is BANDWIDTH. You only get two HD's per analog, plus maybe 1 or 2 SD's. Chicago itself opened up alot of space, but I think many areas may not have the 800MHz bandwidth many suburbs have. Here in Schaumburg, the highest channels are at 807MHz, and I saw 825MHz being tested with some public access channel just before ADS was fully set up.

The recent movement of Hallmark to digital-only opened up a channel, but remember that they also need room for CDV (Comcast Digital Voice), OnDemand, etc...

I'm again confused about the minimal package required to get HDTV channels from Comcast.
Currently, I have Digital classic. Would Digital Starter work as well?

You dont even need ANY digital package from them; if you have the proper tuner built into your TV, you can get all the HD channels in the basic tier, with the basic cable package; its 15.40 per month.

It depends on what you want:

Local HD Channels (CBS, NBC, ABC, FOX, PBS, WGN, WPWR) are free with the minimum service.

You need Digital Classic to get ESPN, ESPN2, MOJO aka INHD, FoodHD, HGTVHD, CSNHD

You need Digital Prefered to get TNTHD, DiscoveryTheaterHD

You need entertainment package to get NFLHD

HBOHD comes free with HBO, etc

Looking at the tiers on the Comcast site, it's very confusing. HD is listed separately, so it's hard to tell just what package gets you what HD.
http://www.comcast.com/Customers/Clu/ChannelLineup.ashx?print=1&CGID=3883

According to one note, TNTHD (204) and Discovery HD (205) should be part if Digital Classic:
Channels 173, 174, 199-205, 207 and 209 are available with Digital Classic and HDTV equipment.

TNTHD and DiscoveryHD are part of Digital Plus, not Digital Preferred.

Right - I lose track of whatever silly name Comcast comes up for it - those two channels are 1 step up from Digital Classic

Here in Schaumburg, I noticed the Guide lists a channel 255. It's simply named TBA, and the programming is just 24-hour blocks of 'To Be Announced'. It is a valid subchannel signal on 651MHz, but just broadcasting a black screen.

255 is where the Big Ten Network will be whenever a deal with the Big Ten gets done.

I talekd with a Comcast seller at our "Cornfest" festival a few weeks ago and I asked her when DeKalb would be going all digital like Chicago. She said that due to rulings from our city council (I'd love to see the paperwork and then vote them out if they really did this), but they mandated DeKalb have analog on "until 2009". I wonder how I could find out for sure, short of taking a trip to the city offices during normal business hours (a search on the website showed no documents related to this). *If* true, this hamstrings Comcast from providing all their services out here.

just another reason to dump them as fast as u can...

I talekd with a Comcast seller at our "Cornfest" festival a few weeks ago and I asked her when DeKalb would be going all digital like Chicago. She said that due to rulings from our city council (I'd love to see the paperwork and then vote them out if they really did this), but they mandated DeKalb have analog on "until 2009". I wonder how I could find out for sure, short of taking a trip to the city offices during normal business hours (a search on the website showed no documents related to this). *If* true, this hamstrings Comcast from providing all their services out here.


Wonder if it could be pressure from NIU and their expense in changing over the dorms, etc?

Anyone here ever attempt to unlock their Moto SB5120 from Chicagoland market and assign it to a new one, say WA state? My, oh my... I've never experienced more red tape and incompetence in my life. I've been on the phone for 2 hours and still am unable to speak with someone capable of even giving me feedback on this seemingly mundane task (EDIT: perhaps now Tinley Park will figure it out, but I won't hold my breath). I opened a trouble tix on Aug 31st after Comcast would not allow my modem to be used in WA state. I called Comcast, had a CSR imply me a thief by stating I rented a modem from them for an ENTIRE YEAR WITHOUT INCURRING A RENTAL FEE & DISCONNECTING IN GOOD STANDING. She actually asked me to prove it wasn't rented! I asked her to prove it was. I bought this silly device a year ago from comcastoffers (reseller). Anyway, after that little escapade, a tix was put in to resolve what a manager referred to as a 'glitch'.

Haha, forget about that today. I can't even find someone with enough competence to even understand what I'm asking them: What is the status of my trouble tix?! Simply, I have a pending trouble tix to remove my SB5120's HFC MAC ID from the Chicagoland market network so that a friend can add said modem to the Comcast market in Washington State. No dice. I'm going to just get the modem back, destroy it with a hammer and tell the friend to find another provider. Utterly ridiculous...

Typically, providers turn into Nazis only when you'd like to utilize their equipment with a competitor. Apparently, Comcast doesn't like when you continue to use their equipment with them, but in a different place. Washington State might as well be Kazakhstan to this buffoons!

End of rant...

Update: Spoke with a Canadian in Manitoba. Problem resolved. Which leads me to my cynical conclusion. It takes at least more than 8 U.S. Comcast CSRs to equal 1 Canadian.

Quick question, does anyone know where to find the text of the cable bill that was just passed? I want to read the language about a service provider missing an appointment. I just took a half a day off for a CC install and Comcast called during the service window to tell me that they are all out of CC's. No more until the 21st. Great.

I just took a half a day off for a CC install and Comcast called during the service window to tell me that they are all out of CC's. No more until the 21st. Great.
Well I did find this on the Comcast website (After about 20 minutes of searching, guess they don't want to make it easy for you to find).....

What is the Comcast On-Time Guarantee ?

The Comcast On-Time Guarantee* means we promise that the technician will arrive within the scheduled appointment window agreed upon by the customer and Comcast.

What happens if the technician is late?

* If a technician arrives outside of the appointment window for a scheduled installation ,the installation for one cable outlet will be FREE.
* If a technician arrives outside of the scheduled appointment window for a repair you will receive a $20.00 credit to your Cable bill.

*On-Time Guarantee is not available in all areas. Please check with Comcast customer service at 1-800-COMCAST (266-2278) for additional information.

Does Comcast have a direct line to the retention department? I can't seem to find it on the website.

That's pretty funny!

there is no direct line to ANY department...Prepare for a long wait, dude...

That's what I figured. I need to get my bill lower, but I just get irritated thinking about sitting on hold so I haven't called yet. I'm sure that's the reason they do what they do.

don't call on Monday's dude..
you can try the on line chat, but if you are downgrading, they may want to actually annoy you on the phone..
I just dropped their DV, and cut the cable back to the basic basic basic of 15.40 per month..
If I could get any other HSI where I live, they would be gone completely..

Originally posted in July
This is worth the read...
Had been paying Comcast $79.47 for Dig Prefer and HD/DVR. Last month they started charging me for an old DCT-2000 box that I have had for years. $5.98. Around and around I went at Comcast with no satisfaction. My neighbor and I researched DishTV and he calls Comcast and asks if there are any fees if he cancels his service. The rep upgrades him to Dig Prefer from Dig Starter and HD/DVR (Even though he doesn't have an HD TV) and will only charge him $46.97 for the next 12 months.

I call in and go right to the "retention department" and initially all they will offer me is $10 off on my Dig Prefer and $10 off on my HD/DVR for 6 months. I say No, No. We get my neighbor on a conference call so the rep can look at his account, and now I am paying $46.97 per month for Dig Prefer and HD/DVR. A savings of about $34 per month when you add in taxes. This was all caused because they started charging me $5.98 for having an old box. (Three years ago, when HD first came to CL, they tried to charge me the $5.98 and after many calls it was grandfathered into my account. Now because of their greed, I am saving $34 per month. Yes, I returned the old DCT, so they got their box back and I get a savings of $34.)

nice move, Jacktheg!
I just think that it sucks when you have to play those kind of games with a provider, especially one you have done so much business with over the years..

I called today, told them I was paying too much, $192 for internet & cable combined & that both D* & E* were calling & tempting me with offers. They did transfer me to "sales" and I told the gentleman my thoughts. Bottom line is that they lowered me $40/month for 6 months. We'll see how it plays out. On Demand has won over my family, but I sure would like some more HD choices.

yeah, On Demand is about the only thing Comcrap has going for it now..isn't it interesting how they can somehow "magically" lower the prices for a short period of time when you threaten to leave...
That always reminds me of how much we are over paying normally..If they can somehow find a way to save you 40 bucks a month for 6 months, and they are obviously still making money on you at that price, why isn't it that price ALL THE TIME?

Message on the box here in Schaumburg today: Oxygen is moving from analog/ADS 67 to Digital Starter 123.

Anybody got a list of the QAM channels on Comcast? I can't seem to find WCIU HD.

Anybody got a list of the QAM channels on Comcast? I can't seem to find WCIU HD.

There's a reason for that, they don't carry WCIU-HD on Comcast. OTA only.

There's a reason for that, they don't carry WCIU-HD on Comcast. OTA only.

Nor do they carry WYCC-DT, which just went 1080i high-def around 9/15/07. I should clarify and say that I don't know if they are carrying anything high-def or widescreen yet, but they can certainly do it now, if the playback equipment is there. They had promised to go high-def after they moved into their new studios...and they did that over the summer.

Heck, out here in DeKalb, they won't even give us the analog channel, even though it booms in with a solid signal with my attic antenna.

Wonder if it could be pressure from NIU and their expense in changing over the dorms, etc?

No, it's just that Comcast wants to get NIU...nothing more than that, unfortunately. Instead of allowing ONE local newscast from NIU for free, they want the entire residence hall plant to be owned by Comcast just for that ability. The cable companies before (Time Warner, AT&T) were GLAD to have local programming like this on the system. And if I were Comcast, I'd JUMP on anything local like that, heck, even soccer or hockey games from the YMCA. Otherwise, the only difference between them and DirecTV is local weather data on the Weather Channel...and even THAT will be going away in the future, as the technology will allow D* and E* boxes to do what local cable companies do now.

And if they think on-demand will be the only thing they'll need to thrive, they'd better think again...fast!

And if they think on-demand will be the only thing they'll need to thrive, they'd better think again...fast!

thats their main problem..not alot of thinking going on over there...

Another message on the box today: CSPAN2 is moving from analog/ADS channel 98 to digital 104 on 10/16. On the same day, CSPAN3 will be added on 105.

And if I were Comcast, I'd JUMP on anything local like that, heck, even soccer or hockey games from the YMCA. Otherwise, the only difference between them and DirecTV is local weather data on the Weather Channel...and even THAT will be going away in the future, as the technology will allow D* and E* boxes to do what local cable companies do now.With Dish you can get your local TWC weather by going into the interactive menu on channel 100.

i am in the schaumburg area and i am considering going back to Comcast (from Dish), mainly to take advantage of Tivo's features. if someone could please update me on the ff:
1) are multi-stream cablecards already available? how are the cablecards in general? have there been technical issues with the Tivos?
2) i am not interested in leasing a box, so can i just pick up the cablecards from their office and activate over the phone?
3) what are the monthly charges for the cablecards?
4) what is the state & timeframe of SDV? if it's already active, which channels?
5) what is the lowest digital tier to get the main HD channels (ESPN, ESPN2, TNT, Discovery HD)? how much?
thanks very much!

Can anyone tell me where the closest local Comcast office is to Schaumburg? I'd like to swap my old DCT-6412 P2 DVR with something that has a HDMI port (hopefully a DCH-3416). Are they giving out the new DCH boxes now?

There is a building along i-90 between Ikea and Roselle road (on the south side of 90) with a Comcast logo. Don't know if it's publicly accessible or not. Couldn't hurt to stop by, I've found that the Comcast people are very nice and helpful in person. (Not so much over the phone, sadly...)

Comcast Schaumburg
Address: 655 Wise Road
Schaumburg, IL 60193
Phone: 866-594-1234
Hours:This location will be closed all day on Thursday, 09/27/07. Mon-Fri 8am-6pm, Sat 9am-1pm.

Are any of those stations HD besides NFLHD?

i am in the schaumburg area and i am considering going back to Comcast (from Dish), mainly to take advantage of Tivo's features. if someone could please update me on the ff:
1) are multi-stream cablecards already available? how are the cablecards in general? have there been technical issues with the Tivos?
They are used in the new DCH DVR's, but I don't know if they are available for other devices, yet.
2) i am not interested in leasing a box, so can i just pick up the cablecards from their office and activate over the phone?
They still require a 'technician' to come over and plug them in, and charge you for it.
3) what are the monthly charges for the cablecards?
Free for the first card per device. There is a charge if a device needs two cards (such as a Tivo HD/Series 3.)
4) what is the state & timeframe of SDV? if it's already active, which channels?
Nothing official. I don't think it's in use in this area yet. The closest thing to SDV is OnDemand.
5) what is the lowest digital tier to get the main HD channels (ESPN, ESPN2, TNT, Discovery HD)? how much?
I think Digital Classic, which is $64.48 (includes one SD cable box.) Some might be available with Digital Starter ($54.48), but you will need either an HD cable box ($7 extra), or the CableCard.
There appears to be a special going where they have Digital Starter with HBO: $24.99 for 4 months, or $29.99 for 6 months. Both jump to $71.47 after that.

Hey I have a quick question. I'm a student at Lake Forest College and we have our HDTV hooked up to cable to get the clear QAM stations. Most of them work fine however it seems like every day or so we have to scan again because we lose the digital stations. Is this normal for the system? Also, we have never been able to get the Fox affiliate (channel 12 not sure of the call sign) in high def. Is this something with our hookup or something that Comcast does on the system?

Thanks

FOX for me is 32-1, did you try that?

Has anyone recently had luck upgrading to an HD-capable STB in person at one of the Comcast service centers? I called sales yesterday and was told that they have stopped giving out the boxes there because too many people had trouble with the set up. My only option is to wait a week and pay $59.95 for a "professional" to come and hook it up. I work near the Schaumburg office and could get to one of the Chicago locations - any experience with either office would be appreciated.

Has anyone recently had luck upgrading to an HD-capable STB in person at one of the Comcast service centers? I called sales yesterday and was told that they have stopped giving out the boxes there because too many people had trouble with the set up. My only option is to wait a week and pay $59.95 for a "professional" to come and hook it up. I work near the Schaumburg office and could get to one of the Chicago locations - any experience with either office would be appreciated. The hookup is not a problem (same as any device to a tv) but when they installed mine there were problems with the signal strength and he had to play around with the outside box to improve the signal. However $60 does seems outrageous, I don't remember it being that high, but I got mine in 2005.

You won't say that in october, when you see them playing the Yankees in the Series..:p

Just noticed that TBS is broadcasting a lot of MLB divisional playoff games and the NLCS. Bad news for us Comcast folks since TBS is not broadcast in HD. I'm not even sure TBS HD exists anywhere....DTV advertises it as coming soon (what else is new), and Dish does not have it.

Sad to think I can watch regular season baseball in HD, but at least half the playoffs will be in SD.

Thanks greatly for the reply - maybe I'll just suck it up and pay to get them out here. The sooner the HD signal starts flowing, the better.

The hookup is not a problem (same as any device to a tv) but when they installed mine there were problems with the signal strength and he had to play around with the outside box to improve the signal. However $60 does seems outrageous, I don't remember it being that high, but I got mine in 2005.

In the Mount Prospect area is has been around $32. $16 to upgrade the box, $16 to send a warm body out to my house.

Just noticed that TBS is broadcasting a lot of MLB divisional playoff games and the NLCS. Bad news for us Comcast folks since TBS is not broadcast in HD. I'm not even sure TBS HD exists anywhere....DTV advertises it as coming soon (what else is new), and Dish does not have it.

Sad to think I can watch regular season baseball in HD, but at least half the playoffs will be in SD.

TBS HD rolled out in early September. I checked with a friend at Comcast,today, and although TBS HD will be available here at some point in the future, it does not look good for the playoffs. There is a slim chance that there might be some sort of temporary agreement to show it here, but that seems very remote.

Mike K.

Sorry, haven't visited this thread in a while.

My family's TV finally broke down so they got one with all those tuners (QAM, NTSC, ATSC), and have Comcast digital cable (but not an HD receiver). They scanned and didn't find anything. Shouldn't they get the locals in HD? Did Comcast block this or something?

My family's TV finally broke down so they got one with all those tuners (QAM, NTSC, ATSC), and have Comcast digital cable (but not an HD receiver). They scanned and didn't find anything. Shouldn't they get the locals in HD? Did Comcast block this or something?
What level of service do they have? Most digital channels, especially the unencrypted ones, are up above the analogs (76+). If they have Basic, they may have a filter blocking the signals.

Sorry, haven't visited this thread in a while.

My family's TV finally broke down so they got one with all those tuners (QAM, NTSC, ATSC), and have Comcast digital cable (but not an HD receiver). They scanned and didn't find anything. Shouldn't they get the locals in HD? Did Comcast block this or something?

You should be good to go. If you get nothing I'd make sure your TV is set to the right input. Not sure if it's the same on all TV's but on mine I need to push the "TV" button on the remote for QAM, if I run off the cable box I hit the cable button, and so forth for DVD and whatever else.

Good luck.

No rush for TBS-HD. Cubs are trying their hardest not to go to playoffs.

Thanks a lot guys, since you guys confirmed they weren't blocked I went over there and turns out they had some connection wrong. Channels looked great

How do you tell what areas of Chicago have had the digital rebuild? I'm moving up to Wrigleyville and if there's no HD, whats the point of keeping Com.

Hi folks. I just dusted off the old, semi-working LG 3410A to try to record and temporarily store some WTTW-HD programs tonight. But I can't find all of the local HD channels. I found ABC on 63.1 and WGN on 63.2, which used to be on 107.1 and 107.2 respectively. The others can't be found.

According to my 3412, the other four channels are grouped two each on frequencies of 519 and 525.

I've read that some people get these channels on 2.1 or 11.1 now. If I punch 11.1, I get WTTW OTA, not cable.

Does anyone still using the 3410A for cable have advice? Thanks.

Instead of informing us of new exciting HD channels, this is what we get from Cmcast on the latest bill:

Comcast periodically reviews and adjusts prices to ensure they best reflect the value of the products and services customer receive. Below are monthly price changes to some residential video services. High Speed Internet and Digital Voice pricing is not affected.

The following prices will change with November bills: Standard Cable, which includes Basic & Exp. Basic ($52.49 to $54.99); Digital Classic ($11.99 to $14.99); Digital Preferred ($14.99 to $15.99); DVR Service ($11.99 to $13.99); and non HD DVR Service ($5.99 to $8.99).

Monthly digital package prices are also affected; Digital Preferred with 2 Premiums will increase from $88.99 to $94.99. For customers receiving Comcast services under a special promotion, the new prices will apply based on the terms of the promotional offer. Thank you for choosing Comcast. We appreciate your business.

Called them up to complain about prices going up (especially DVR going up by $2 again). I got $5 off per DVR box (I have 2) for a year.

The only new HD channel they knew for sure is History HD coming on 10/16.

We are paying for all those unnecessary truck rolls initiated by poorly trained CSR's that could answer a question or solve a problem at their end simply and efficiently over the phone. It's a hugely inefficient system that costs us lots of extra $$$.

And the size of those increases! Does Comcast think it's a health care company?

Man, this is starting to hurt a little. every year they go up in price. Last year they went up and this year also. That's a 30% increase in price over the last 3 years.

2005 DVR rental 9.99
2006 DVR rental 11.99
2007 DVR rental 13.99

We have gotten 6 new HD channels this year, though: HGTV, Food Network HD, A&E HD, My50 HD, Universal HD, National Geographic HD and its looking like History Channel will come later next month, so this is encouraging.

They are going to keep charging as much as they think the market can bear. For me personally, if Direct comes along with all the channels they are promissing, upwards of 100 in HD, I might be jumping ship if comcast can't compete with more service or less pricing.

[QUOTE=cthame1;11755040]Man, this is starting to hurt a little. every year they go up in price. Last year they went up and this year also. That's a 30% increase in price over the last 3 years.

2005 DVR rental 9.99
2006 DVR rental 11.99
2007 DVR rental 13.99

QUOTE]

Wait just one cotton pickin' minuite:confused:

The price of a HD box is going to 8.99 from 5.99? This is going to be ridulos. I have 3 non DVR HD boxes, and 1 DVR. Just in hardware I'm going to be paying $11/ month. Over the year thats $132. I don't know how I'm starting to feel about this. They better give me a good reason to pay the extra.

How do you tell what areas of Chicago have had the digital rebuild? I'm moving up to Wrigleyville and if there's no HD, whats the point of keeping Com.

I live in Wrigleyville (Clark/Irving Park), and have the digital rebuild. I think you're pretty safe in that neighborhood.

Just an FYI, I called today to setup an appointment for a cable card install for my new Tivo HD, and they informed me that all Chicago offices (not sure about burbs) will now allow the customer to pickup cards. So I headed over and grabbed one (North Ave office). I was expecting to have to get an appointment for some random afternoon...

were you able to get it to work?
Is it the new 2 way card?

Just an FYI, I called today to setup an appointment for a cable card install for my new Tivo HD, and they informed me that all Chicago offices (not sure about burbs) will now allow the customer to pickup cards. So I headed over and grabbed one (North Ave office). I was expecting to have to get an appointment for some random afternoon...

Why didn't I think of that. Today was my third Friday in a row for a CC appointment. On all three occasions, the guy showed up without any CC's, but with a DVR box. I was a little angry today and complained, so they are waiving the fee and giving me a $20 credit. Still, what a waste of three afternoons.

It is the new Mcard... I have everything working but HBO (HD and SD). After doing some reading, it seems like I need to have comcast pair my device with the card... but im having trouble getting someone to understand that. We will see.. The fact that other channels, including digital, are working is good though.

It is the new Mcard... I have everything working but HBO (HD and SD). After doing some reading, it seems like I need to have comcast pair my device with the card... but im having trouble getting someone to understand that. We will see.. The fact that other channels, including digital, are working is good though.

Call Comcast, and tell them you need to be put in the "four hour callback queue", and you need to talk to someone in the Tinley Park office.

The front-line techs can't help you.

Call Comcast, and tell them you need to be put in the "four hour callback queue", and you need to talk to someone in the Tinley Park office.

The front-line techs can't help you.

I got put into the queue and someone finally called me back. After convincing them that the tivo hd (not series 3) DOES support multistream cards.... they are having someone enter the pairing info tomorrow. Apparently there is nobody left to do it tonight. The most annoying thing is that whatever they tried to do knocked out all of my channels. I was at least getting everything but HBO.

UPDATE: I called in at 9:30 am and got myself put back into the 4 hour queue and mentioned the tinley park office. The guy said, "yea, that is what I was about to do".. so now im waiting again. The way my card currently stands is I get basic cable (20 some channels.. including HD locals)

UPDATE 2: What a waste of a day... talked on and off to this guy for 5 hours and got nowhere. To sum it up. Friday I had the card installed and was getting everything but HBO. Friday night the lady I spoke with made a change and now I only get the basic 20 some channels. Now they want to swap my card and of course want me to take a day off work to accomodate them.

Well,
it seems Comcast in New England is offering TBS-HD in time for the playoffs, maybe it will carry over for us?
http://www.boston.com/business/technology/articles/2007/09/26/high_definition_tbs_feed_should_please_red_sox_fans/

We can only hope.

DirecTV added TBS HD (and 17 other new HD channels) a few days ago. Excellent timing considering that the Cubs made the playoffs.

Is anyone concerned that HD Comcast customers won't get the Cubs playoff games in HD? As mentioned the games will be on TBS, I am guessing a local station will pick up the feed. What I don't know is if (1) the picked up feed will be HD and (2) if the game is picked up by WCIU we are out luck because Comcast doesn't have WCIU in HD.

Man this sucks. Any suggestions or predictions?

Is anyone concerned that HD Comcast customers won't get the Cubs playoff games in HD? As mentioned the games will be on TBS, I am guessing a local station will pick up the feed. What I don't know is if (1) the picked up feed will be HD and (2) if the game is picked up by WCIU we are out luck because Comcast doesn't have WCIU in HD.

Man this sucks. Any suggestions or predictions?

The games are TBS exclusive, NO local broadcasts. OTA customers are SOL. If Comcast here doesn't pick up TBS-HD this week, you'll be forced to watch them in SD. Comcast is announcing that they are picking up TBS-HD in other parts of the country this week, so maybe we'll get it here.

Man, that really blows for us huge, MLB fans. I have to watch ALL of the playoffs, which pretty much always outshine the World Series, on my crappy, blurry, analog TBS station?

The A.L. playoffs should be really great this year. I'm REALLY looking forward to it, moreso than a lot of other, recent years. You've got 4 really good, pretty equal teams in there, except that the Angels and Red Sox have the better pitching, which is what almost always wins these short, intense series' (although I'm well aware that most Cub fans couldn't care less. The vast majority of them are basically only "Cubbie" fans, and not necessarily baseball fans in general).

The N.L. playoffs will basically just be the mediocre competing against the mediocre in comparison. I would say that it's just about which one gets to be sent to the slaughter, but after the last three years, I know better. ESPECIALLY the last one. Last year was a complete joke. Being as big of a baseball fan that I am, it was totally anti-climactic to the whole season. I felt totally cheated in the end.

If the "Cubbies" do win it all, it will just prove my theory that these last four years have basically been fixed, and that MLB just wants the teams who haven't won in ages to win to keep the fan base alive and thriving in those cities, and that it's just "good for baseball" in general to have that happen. They could at least have a gap of a couple of years to not be so obvious about it. At this rate, Tampa Bay will win it all next year.

Even as a White Sox fan, I felt in my heart they didn't even deserve to be in the WS, since they played like crap and barely played 500% ball for the second half of the 2005 season, up until the last week or two. I was glad to see 'em finally win one in my lifetime, but after watching them all year, I felt like we kinda scabbed out to get there.

The "Cubbies" could win the N.L., though - any of the four, so-so teams have an equal shot at that.

Man, that really blows for us huge, MLB fans. I have to watch ALL of the playoffs, which pretty much always outshine the World Series, on my crappy, blurry, analog TBS station?

The A.L. playoffs should be really great this year. I'm REALLY looking forward to it, moreso than a lot of other, recent years. You've got 4 really good, pretty equal teams in there, except that the Angels and Red Sox have the better pitching, which is what almost always wins these short, intense series' (although I'm well aware that most Cub fans couldn't care less. The vast majority of them are basically only "Cubbie" fans, and not necessarily baseball fans in general).

The N.L. playoffs will basically just be the mediocre competing against the mediocre in comparison. I would say that it's just about which one gets to be sent to the slaughter, but after the last three years, I know better. ESPECIALLY the last one. Last year was a complete joke. Being as big of a baseball fan that I am, it was totally anti-climactic to the whole season. I felt totally cheated in the end.

If the "Cubbies" do win it all, it will just prove my theory that these last four years have basically been fixed, and that MLB just wants the teams who haven't won in ages to win to keep the fan base alive and thriving in those cities, and that it's just "good for baseball" in general to have that happen. They could at least have a gap of a couple of years to not be so obvious about it. At this rate, Tampa Bay will win it all next year.

Even as a White Sox fan, I felt in my heart they didn't even deserve to be in the WS, since they played like crap and barely played 500% ball for the second half of the 2005 season, up until the last week or two. I was glad to see 'em finally win one in my lifetime, but after watching them all year, I felt like we kinda scabbed out to get there.

The "Cubbies" could win the N.L., though - any of the four, so-so teams have an equal shot at that.

FYI: The Cubs have the best record in the NL since June. They clinched their division before anyone else in the league as well. ;)

No Comcast-carried playoff coverage in HD would be very disappointing. :eek:

Regards,

Randy

A die-hard Cubs fan since 1963

FYI: The Cubs have the best record in the NL since June. They clinched their division before anyone else in the league as well.Key word: N.L.

Like I said, they have as good a shot as anyone there ;). If you knock off the first couple of those months, I wouldn't be surprised if Arizona's had at least as good of a record since then, if not better. Face it, they practically backed into that division title as it is. They did everything they could do to lose it in the last couple of weeks before the last few games. And lets not forget that they're in the (overall) weakest division in baseball.

Unless the A.L.'s representative WS team takes a total dive like last year, I don't know if their chances are quite as good after that :).

I don't even care who's in it - I'd just like to see a good World Series for a change. They've been too one-sided lately.

Aw, c’mon man. I’m right there with ya watching baseball....any game, any time. Let’s hope this is a good series this year and goes 6 or 7. But to think it’s fixed basically because the ‘best’ team doesn’t always win? That ain’t right. No team in either league even played .600 ball this year. This is why they play the games.

If the "Cubbies" do win it all, it will just prove my theory that these last four years have basically been fixed, and that MLB just wants the teams who haven't won in ages to win to keep the fan base alive and thriving in those cities, and that it's just "good for baseball" in general to have that happen. They could at least have a gap of a couple of years to not be so obvious about it. At this rate, Tampa Bay will win it all next year.

The fan base in Chicago on the north side is alive and well (6th in attendance this year) despite having not won in almost 100 years. The fan base in Boston was doing just fine prior to them winning in ’04 (first time in almost 90 years). If it’s a ‘baseball town’ it’s a baseball town and the fans will come regardless. If it’s not – see Florida, won the WS in ’03 (second WS win in 7 years) and dead last in attendance this year – the fans won’t. In '04, the year after they Marlins won the WS, their attendance 'jumped' to 26th and has gotten no better since.

I too would like to see a 6 or 7 game series every year but it just doesn’t always happen that way. Over the past 20 seasons 11 series have gone 6 or 7 games and 9 series less than that. That’s pretty even.

I have no stats to back it up but it seems the teams heading into the playoffs on a bit of a roll are the ones that are most successful. I think this is why over the past 12 seasons we’ve seen 8 wild card teams make it to the WS and 4 of them win it. They’ve had to play meaningful games down the stretch and had to win most of them just to get in. Some division winners ‘coast’ into the playoffs.

I’m a National League fan and a Cubs fan so I’m off to a good start this year. How about back to back National League wins in the WS for the first time since ’79 – ’82 when they won four series in a row!

And to keep this on topic – Comcast better pick up TBS for the Chicago area or they’re gonna let a whole bunch of folks like us down.

No Comcast-carried playoff coverage in HD would be very disappointing. :eek:



I just spoke with a Comcast CSR, and she said they're trying to get TBS-HD ready for Wednesday's game, but due to the "technical aspects" of getting it out, it may not be ready by then. It will be on channel 219.

Also, she said History Channel HD was coming on 10/16 and would be on channel 199.

So, Wednesday would be nice, but what about for tonight?
This is completely BS that MLB sold out to TBS, and they didn't even make sure there was HD in place..

Here in Schaumburg, 199 is Versus/Golf HD. I thought Comcast was trying to keep digital channels all the same in the area? Or is Versus/Golf going bye-bye?

The Tube has gone off the air. Right now, it's just a text message saying it is gone. (Comcast 197, broadcast 9.2).

Here in Schaumburg, 199 is Versus/Golf HD. I thought Comcast was trying to keep digital channels all the same in the area? Or is Versus/Golf going bye-bye?

Hmm, I'm not sure. Maybe I misheard her or she got the channel wrong. She was reading from a memo and wasn't speaking very clearly. Versus/Golf HD better not be disappearing now the the NHL season is starting. I've seen in other threads that Comcast in other locales was putting TBS-HD on channel 221 (or maybe it was 220).

According to a post in the "What's the next HD channel for Comcast", we should be getting TBSHD in time for the Cubs game (or at least very soon).

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=11783706#post11783706

Take it FWIW. I'm not familiar with the poster but have no reason not to believe him.

I hope he's right!

The M8B says TBS HD coming very soon to Chicagoland.

dumb question,
have we always (as in for more than a month) had HDT and VSGLF?
Thanks..

dumb question,
have we always (as in for more than a month) had HDT and VSGLF?
Thanks..

HDT is newly renamed Discovery HD Theater. VSGLF has been around for quite some time as well.

TBSHD is in the guide here in Waukegan, ch 219, but right now, NFLHD is showing up on there. 6:15 AM Tuesday.

TBSHD is in the guide here in Waukegan, ch 219, but right now, NFLHD is showing up on there. 6:15 AM Tuesday.

Same here.

Now it is showing TBS programming.

Now it is showing TBS programming.

Never thought I'd ever say this, but "Thank you Comcast!" Cubs post-season baseball in HD!

Now it is showing TBS programming.

Great. I saw the message indicator light on my STB this morning and was expecting it to be about TBS-HD, but it was for a boxing pay-per-view event instead. I didn't even check the actual channels or guide. Glad to see they got it done before Wednesday's game. Too bad we couldn't watch last night's game in HD though.

From the Tribune:

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/cs-071002comcasthd,0,1113878.story?coll=chi_tab01_layout

For reference, at least here in Schaumburg, TBS-HD is on 261MHz (analog 30).

So far nothing here, 219, 221 are blank. 199 is still that silly Versus.

Oh well, not like I need an excuse to hit a pub for the game

I got TBS-HD here but lost[at least temporarily]WMAQ-HD/WTTW-HD/WGN-HD/WBBM-HD.

I got TBS-HD its on Channel 169 Which is the NFL HD Station here in Palos hIlls, IL Is the station where this channel will be?

It's on 219 here it'll be on 219 there too.

Thanks to the tips on the thread here. I checked out 219 and lo and behold, TBS-HD with Sex in the City in stretch-o-vision. Just in time for tomorrow.

:D

Over here some time after 10pm SHO-HD, HBO-HD & ESPN-HD went to the "Channel will be available shortly" screen. No TBS-HD at this point.

At 3am a messege light appeared, but it was for ppv boxing.

The other channels have since come back but still no sign of TBS-HD and now I read that not all of the Chicagoland area will be able to get TBS-HD in time for the playoffs. However, I have found Channel 255 added which says it's for the Big Ten Channel when agreements can be made. Whoopy-do, 255 is a place holder. How about Comcast show some love to the South Suburbs and throw TBS-HD our way too.

THS-HD no longer on Channel 169 here in Palos Hills , They got NFL Network HD Back on that station, and its not on 219 Either..Whats going on?

I just moved from Warrenville to South Elgin. Comcast came out yesterday to get my service started at my house. I had been planning on just getting to use the box I had which was a 6412 III w/HDMI port. When I told him he didn't need to bring in a new box, he said that Elgin/South Elgin are the only areas where you can't just use a box from a different system. So now I'm stuck with an older 6412 that doesn't have an HDMI port. Was this guy full of crap?

Also, apparently the people that lived in my house before me never had cable. So he had to run a line from the side of my house all the way to the backyard. He said in a week or so someone would be out to bury the line. How badly are they going to tear up my yard to bury this line? Anyone had to deal with this recently?

I just moved from Warrenville to South Elgin. Comcast came out yesterday to get my service started at my house. I had been planning on just getting to use the box I had which was a 6412 III w/HDMI port. When I told him he didn't need to bring in a new box, he said that Elgin/South Elgin are the only areas where you can't just use a box from a different system. So now I'm stuck with an older 6412 that doesn't have an HDMI port. Was this guy full of crap?

Also, apparently the people that lived in my house before me never had cable. So he had to run a line from the side of my house all the way to the backyard. He said in a week or so someone would be out to bury the line. How badly are they going to tear up my yard to bury this line? Anyone had to deal with this recently?
I had a new line run after an animal under my deck chewed up the old one. The yard looked fine after they buried it. Hardly noticed they were there.

Can anyone confirm that they are receiving the Colorado/Philly game in HD?

If so, what channel? I'm thrilled that they're picking up the TBS HD playoff broadcasts, but I hope it doesn't preempt NFL-N HD. I was hoping to record the Steelers game later tonight on NFL Replay.

I am getting it on 219 in Waukegan. Looks good.

Anyone have issues getting channels above 194 with a new DCH3416? I just picked one up today and hooked it up (w/ Comcast supplied cables) and it seems to work great except I get no picture on channels above 194. Guide displays the correct info but I get the "channel will be ready shortly" messaging. Strangely, channel 34 (TBS) does not come in either while everything else below 195 seems just fine.

Everything comes in perfectly on my old HD DVR downstairs...just not the new one upstairs. Comcast wants to send someone out and I was hoping to avoid that. I've been using the upstairs HD LCD with the QAM tuner and it's been working flawlessly to this point. I picked up the STB today to get HD baseball upstairs on TBS.

After hearing about it on the radio this morning B96, got home at 6 and yes, another hd channel provided by Comcast this year. Glad the Cubs are in playoffs otherwise we might not have got this until next year?

After hearing about it on the radio this morning B96, got home at 6 and yes, another hd channel provided by Comcast this year. Glad the Cubs are in playoffs otherwise we might not have got this until next year?

Finally they're good for something! We need to get them on sci-fi hd somehow so we can get BSG once it starts airing again.

Also, apparently the people that lived in my house before me never had cable. So he had to run a line from the side of my house all the way to the backyard. He said in a week or so someone would be out to bury the line. How badly are they going to tear up my yard to bury this line? Anyone had to deal with this recently?

I suggest you call and check to make sure the line is scheduled to be buried. The guy who replace my line said to call if the line had not been buried in a week. I waited three days and called. The person I talked to said nothing had been scheduled. She said that JULIE had to be called first to mark any other utilities. It took another week for the line to be buried. The line was buried very cleanly.

Finally they're good for something! We need to get them on sci-fi hd somehow so we can get BSG once it starts airing again.DirecTV added SciFi HD recently. D* also has the following HD channels that Comcast doesn't carry: CNN, Big 10, USA, A&E, TLC, Smithsonian, History, Discovery, Science, The Weather Ch., Versus/Golf, Bravo, YES, NESN, SNY, HBO West, Max West, Starz Kids, Starz Edge, Starz Comedy, Sho West, Sho 2, Sho 3, TMC East.

DirecTV added SciFi HD recently. D* also has the following HD channels that Comcast doesn't carry: CNN, Big 10, USA, A&E, TLC, Smithsonian, History, Discovery, Science, The Weather Ch., Versus/Golf, Bravo, YES, NESN, SNY, HBO West, Max West, Starz Kids, Starz Edge, Starz Comedy, Sho West, Sho 2, Sho 3, TMC East.

Comcast, at least in most Chicago areas, has A&E and Versus/Golf in HD. History HD is rumored to be coming on the 16th, when two analogs are dropped (at least here in Schaumburg.)

Anyone have any idea when/if verizon is going to make it to Chicago?

I have been praying for Verizon for awhile..last time I spoke to them, they said Illinois is at the top of their list, but even if they decided to come here tomorrow, it would still take months for them to get set up here.

I hope i'm in the right place to field this question.

I have Comcast Digital, no movie channels; one Sharp HD TV in the bedroom hooked up using HDMI with a Motorola DCT-3416 I Box. I don't care about On Demand, I do not care at all for a DVR. I would like to get a new box without the DVR and the $11.99 per month charge, but with HDMI capability. I think that Comcast has new DCH Boxes without DVRs with HDMI, but I am not sure. The DCH-3200 and DCH-6200 ?

Anyone know if I can indeed get rid of the DVR rental charge, and get a normal Box (DCH) with HDMI, it will be good news as I plan also plan to replace a 27" Sony Wega CRT in the Livingroom with a 40" LCD.

I got tired of paying Comcast $150.00 a month for Internet, 2 Boxes, Digital Gold something-or-other, and HBO. So I dropped the movie channels, and Comcast gave me a 6 month promo on the Internet, and I'm still paying $104.00 a month. Since the amount of HD programming (HD has spoiled me) Comcast offers at this point in Chicago is kind of a joke, I wouldn't be real unhappy with a Computer, an Xbox, 700 DVDs, and AT&T DSL taking care of me for $14.99 a month.

I felt the same way, after paying almost 200 bucks a month for their crappy service, so I got Dish network with a FREE HDDVR, then dumped Comcast for everything except the basic basic analog service for 15 bucks a month, but kept their HSI because we like the 8 meg service. I dumped their un-reliable Digital Voice service and went back to ATT for the same price, 40 bucks a month, and at least I don't have to deal with phone outages and terrible phone service now.
Take a look at dish Network; you get the same picture quality, free equipment, and alot of choices and you WILL SAVE MONEY..Video on Demand is not as good as Comcast, but you said you don't care about that, and neither did I..

I'd be in a different boat right now. The On Demand is watched daily in our house and my family would not be happy if I left Comcast. Had E* from 1998-2005, but when CSN-HD came out, only on Comcast, that's where I went. E* now has it back, but only for game coverage, D* has it F/T. If I was to go back to satellite now, I think D* would get my vote. There certainly are somemore HD channels I'd like, along with a few SD channels llike ESPNU, but I'll stay with Comcast for now. & I just called them to tell them abput the E* & D* offers & they ended giving me about $50/month off what I was spending before. I'm sure that it will only last 6 months, so I'll call back again then.

I love OnDemand and it is watched daily in our house too. I just cannot believe that they have such crappy and user unfriendly UI. Fast forwarding, rewinding and pausing absolutely sucks with OnDemand.

I hope i'm in the right place to field this question.

I have Comcast Digital, no movie channels; one Sharp HD TV in the bedroom hooked up using HDMI with a Motorola DCT-3416 I Box. I don't care about On Demand, I do not care at all for a DVR. I would like to get a new box without the DVR and the $11.99 per month charge, but with HDMI capability. I think that Comcast has new DCH Boxes without DVRs with HDMI, but I am not sure. The DCH-3200 and DCH-6200 ?




Im not sure on the model, but the newest HD box without DVR does have HDMI. I was told the old one does not. I was in getting a cablecard for my tivo and asked about replacing my DVR with a normal HD box. The lady told me the new model goes in and out of stock pretty regularly. They had them that day... I havnt gotten one yet because I kept my DVR so I could finish watching shows on it.. but I will be swapping it soon. I want to keep a box on hand for random onDemand stuff.

John : thanks for the news. I think i"ll just call Comcast one of the local (to me) offices, and see if they have the new DCH boxes with HDMI, without the DVR feature.

I don't know if the DCH 3200 or the DCH 6200 will fit the bill, but hopefully one of them will.

John : thanks for the news. I think i"ll just call Comcast one of the local (to me) offices, and see if they have the new DCH boxes with HDMI, without the DVR feature.

I don't know if the DCH 3200 or the DCH 6200 will fit the bill, but hopefully one of them will.

Ill be interested to know what you get. Now that my tivoHD is working im gonna trade my DVR for a normal HD box. I actually never mentioned to the lady that HDMI interests me, but she must get the question a lot because she made the point of telling me that the new non-dvr boxes have HDMI.

It depends on what you want:

Local HD Channels (CBS, NBC, ABC, FOX, PBS, WGN, WPWR) are free with the minimum service.

You need Digital Classic to get ESPN, ESPN2, MOJO aka INHD, FoodHD, HGTVHD, CSNHD

You need Digital Prefered to get TNTHD, DiscoveryTheaterHD

You need entertainment package to get NFLHD

HBOHD comes free with HBO, etc

I am new to the whole HD thing, but I heard something about how Clear QAM is when the HD over-the-air channels are sent on the cable line for free (if you have any service, including non-digital and non-HD).

First, is my understanding correct?
Second, can Interpret that what you said here means that the local stations are Clear QAM?
Third, If I buy http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16815116015 will it allow me to watch and record HD local stations if I connect my cable line to it? (it would be my first experience with HD)

I am new to the whole HD thing, but I heard something about how Clear QAM is when the HD over-the-air channels are sent on the cable line for free (if you have any service, including non-digital and non-HD).
Clear QAM just means the signal is not encrypted. In most areas, broadcast, local-access, and maybe a few other channels will be in-the-clear.

I currently have SD Dish Network and attempted to get HD Dish (offers 42 HD channels), however my neighbor's giant tree is blocking the HD signal. I was however able to hook up the old outdoor antenna to the TV so at least I can get the local channels for free, which is cool.

I started looking into Comcast as an alternative. I'm having second thoughts as they have very little HD programming and their service is really expensive and crappy...

I looked at their site and it seems I'm getting most of the channels for free anyway. Someone else posted the following. Is this all you get??



Local HD Channels (CBS, NBC, ABC, FOX, PBS, WGN, WPWR) are free with the minimum service.

You need Digital Classic to get ESPN, ESPN2, MOJO aka INHD, FoodHD, HGTVHD, CSNHD

You need Digital Prefered to get TNTHD, DiscoveryTheaterHD

You need entertainment package to get NFLHD

HBOHD comes free with HBO, etc

I currently have SD Dish Network and attempted to get HD Dish (offers 42 HD channels), however my neighbor's giant tree is blocking the HD signal. I was however able to hook up the old outdoor antenna to the TV so at least I can get the local channels for free, which is cool.

I started looking into Comcast as an alternative. I'm having second thoughts as they have very little HD programming and their service is really expensive and crappy...

I looked at their site and it seems I'm getting most of the channels for free anyway. Someone else posted the following. Is this all you get??

Here's what we get in Waukegan:

169 - NFL
173 - ESPN
174 - MOJO
179 - HGTV
181 - Food
184 - WPWR (My Network)
185 - Sho
186 - HBO
187 - WLS (ABC)
188 - WMAQ (NBC)
189 - WBBM (CBS)
190 - WFLD (FOX)
191 - WTTW (PBS)
192 - WGN (CW)
195 - Cinemax
196 - Starz
199 - VS/GLF
200 - CSN (Comcast Sports)
203 - ESPN2
204 - TNT
205 - HDT (formerly Discovery HD Theatre)
206 - Nat Geo
207 - UHD
208 - A&E
209 - MHD
219 - TBS

John : I just picked up a DCH-3200 from the local Comcast office. I'm waiting for the channel info to showup, but in the meantime I watched a few analog, digital, and HD channels hooked up thru HDMI, and all of them look as good or better than the DCT-3416 I DVR I turned in.

The HD, all digital DCH-33200 costs $7.00 a month compared to the 3416 DVR which was $11.99.
Motorola page for the DCH-3200 http://broadband.motorola.com/business/digitalvideo/product_dch3200_settop.asp
Motorola page for the DCH-6200 http://broadband.motorola.com/business/digitalvideo/product_dch6200_settop.asp

I have no idea if the Firewire will work; there is RCA and Component jacks in the back along with Digital sound, and either a Firewire or USB jack on the front. I also have to find out if Comcast recommends turning the box off. When I first got it, the tech told me to never turn the DCT-3416 I off.

So far, so good. I'll keep my fingers crossed, that I have no issues with the new box.

So,
it looks like the Tivo software is finally starting to show up in the Comcast boxes!
http://www.engadget.com/2007/10/11/comcast-begins-long-awaited-rollout-of-tivo-set-top-box/

So,
it looks like the Tivo software is finally starting to show up in the Comcast boxes!
http://www.engadget.com/2007/10/11/comcast-begins-long-awaited-rollout-of-tivo-set-top-box/

Would I be right in guessing that that will require a whole new box and not just a software update/download? If that's the case it still has to be years away. I really never had issues with the old non-HD, non-DVR digital boxes from Comcast but the HD DVR's are, in my opinion, junk. It's no better than a beta test box that shouldn't be out in mass.

Would I be right in guessing that that will require a whole new box and not just a software update/download? If that's the case it still has to be years away. I really never had issues with the old non-HD, non-DVR digital boxes from Comcast but the HD DVR's are, in my opinion, junk. It's no better than a beta test box that shouldn't be out in mass.
Same box, with a software download.
There is a comcast/tivo thread running. http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=682350&page=66

For the last couple of weeks I've had a number of "series recordings" not record, even though it says that it's scheduled to record. Survivor, Heroes and Criminal Minds the last 2 weeks have not recorded. When I contacted customer service they said I must be doing something wrong. I'm not. All my other shows record OK.

I know last week the dvr said I was 100% full even though there were only about 5 shows recorded. After I unplugged it and plugged it back in - the % was right.

Do you thingk it's the box - should I try to swap it for a different one? CSR's arent' that helpful. And it seems like the remote control delay is getting worse and worse.

Same box, with a software download.
There is a comcast/tivo thread running. http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=682350&page=66

Ah, good news. Thanks for the info.

For the last couple of weeks I've had a number of "series recordings" not record, even though it says that it's scheduled to record. Survivor, Heroes and Criminal Minds the last 2 weeks have not recorded. When I contacted customer service they said I must be doing something wrong. I'm not. All my other shows record OK.
I had some issues with one program not always starting to record if two wanted to start at the same time, especially if both were HD. I found setting one to start TWO minutes early seemed to fix it.

I decided to see if i could get any answers this evening from Comcast about the new Tivo/Comcast drv upgrade. I started with the online chat. The rep there confirmed that they are in beta testing phase on the east coast. I asked if they would be doing similar testing in other areas (like Chicago) and she said yes. When i asked how to become part of the group, she said to call my local office and gave me a number to call. It was just the 800 number, but i decided to try.

What i was told by the rep there is that there have been no bulletins posted about the service for this market but she has been told to expect one next week. She suggested i call back next week and said that she should know more about the launch and/or beta testing in this market at that time.

Since it sounded like i might have someone on the line who had answers, i asked her about new HD channels. I told her i had heard that CNNHD, USAHD, and HistoryHD had launched (or were scheduled to launch soon) in some Comcast markets. She confirmed that and said that all 3 should be launched here in November. I asked if any others were going to launch soon; she said that she hasn't been given any specifics beyond those 3, but i should expect more HD channels soon.

Hopefully she wasn't feeding me a line about more info being available next week about the Tivo and about the HD channel launches, but it DOES sound promising.

-dave

well, since Dish Network and/or Direct TV already have those channels and more, its no un-realistic to expect Comcast to add some of those really soon..

Mildly OT here,
but for the first time since I got Comcast, I turned on the non-HD TV in the guest room, which only has whatever I can get through the coax wire, and I can only get something like 2-25 in the Chicago area. Can others get more? or do I need a box for anything more than this?
Thanks
David

Mildly OT here,
but for the first time since I got Comcast, I turned on the non-HD TV in the guest room, which only has whatever I can get through the coax wire, and I can only get something like 2-25 in the Chicago area. Can others get more? or do I need a box for anything more than this?
Thanks
David

enh, just found this after I posted:
http://www.multichannel.com/article/CA6432144.html?display=Breaking+News
anyone know what the cheapest box I can get is? The TV is HD, but only 20", so I don't really care that much about getting HD content on it.
Thanks!

anyone know what the cheapest box I can get is? The TV is HD, but only 20", so I don't really care that much about getting HD content on it.
I'm assuming you mean a rental box from Comcast, right?

Because any standalone tuner you use will basically only get you the same channels you're getting on the 2nd TV now and maybe a few more, only in digital.

If that's what you're talking about, any cheap SD DVD recorder with a clear-QAM digital tuner should do.

I think there's an ATSC/QAM tuner that only puts out 480i available from Coby Electronics now for less than a hundred bucks. But I have no idea how good it is. Check the HDTV Hardware subforum here for more info on the Coby's (they apparently have both an HD and an SD model available).

Do any of the clear QAM local HD channels (NBC, ABC, etc) ever transmit a test pattern? I'd like to record a HD test pattern through the digital tuner of a DVD recorder just to see how well it's really down-resing & recording in SD.

Mildly OT here,
but for the first time since I got Comcast, I turned on the non-HD TV in the guest room, which only has whatever I can get through the coax wire, and I can only get something like 2-25 in the Chicago area. Can others get more? or do I need a box for anything more than this?
Thanks
David
In Mount Prospect we still get channels 2-90something from a raw cable feed.

My boss called Comcast this afternoon to request Speed HD. The operator said she never heard of it. She also said that in addition to the channels mentioned above, they are working to have Fox Business HD added "possibly by January".

Anybody else on Schaumburg headend with ESPN HD, CSN HD, ESPN2 HD, TNT HD, AE HD and TBS HD not working tonight?

**It's working now (11:30pm)**

Yeah, I had the HD outage, too. Nice of Comcast to fix ESPN-HD just after the Monday Night Football game ended.

CSPAN2 moved to 104 today. CSPAN3 added on 105.

Oxygen is on 123.

That clears room for at least 4 new HD channels :)

They still appear to be adjusting things here in Schaumburg. Earlier this morning, both analogs were gone. CSPAN2 was on both 98 and 104 on the cable box, and 123 (Oxygen) didn't exist yet, but 67 still did. I just rechecked, and 98 is now gone, 123 now exists, but 67 is still there. The ADS feed frequencies for CSPAN2 and Oxygen are the same as before the move. CSPAN3 is on 243MHz (analog 27). I assume all the CSPAN's are be unencrypted and can be tuned by any QAM tuner.

No History HD so far, as some have rumored would appear.

My boss called Comcast this afternoon to request Speed HD. The operator said she never heard of it. She also said that in addition to the channels mentioned above, they are working to have Fox Business HD added "possibly by January".

Speed will go HD in Feb 08, no wonder she never heard of it.

Speed will go HD in Feb 08, no wonder she never heard of it.


But D* added it yesterday.

I am in South Elgin and have just purchased an LG LCD TV with 256-QAM. I have been surfing the channels and have discovered all the extra stations that QAM gives me. (Surprising since the Philips QAM tuner I have doesn't decode many of these stations... maybe it's only 64-QAM?)

I have been looking through these posts and realize that some stations might be On Demand feeds, etc. I have not been able to find a complete list of the QAM stations. Does this list exist, or does the layout change too much from receiver to receiver?

Can anyone tell me... with 1 normal digital box, 1 DVR, and one cablecard what should I be paying "extra". Im a little confused. Im looking at my bill, I have landlord basic..

31.98 Digital Preffered
11.99 DVR
5.99 Digital Access Fee
5.99 Dig Ad outlet Access Fee

Both of those 5.99 charges were not on my bill before the cablecard came into the picture. When I called they said one of the 5.99 fees is for the digital box and one is for the cable card. I said I was told the cablecard would be $1.50... to which she said it would actually be free if I didnt have a DVR.

Is it right? Strangely there is no fee for a cablecard. I intend to lose the DVR but thought I would put a normal HD box in its place for On Demand.

UPDATE:
I spoke with my lady in executive care. At first she said it was right and that when I return the DVR the 11.99, and 2 5.99 charges will go away and will be replaced with a $1.50 cable card fee. I said fine, im returning it this weekend hopefully. I was gonna get a normal box but I see where that is going. I asked why the CSR's in the past had told me that my landlord deal included 3 boxes... she said she had no idea.

UPDATE 2:
Out of the blue my phone rings and its my lady again. She said she followed up with the bulk billing department (I give her credit for following up) and that my building does indeed allow for 3 boxes. So if I stay as is I lose the 2 5.99 charges, or I can drop the DVR and have no extra charges. If I trade the DVR for an HD box it will be an 8.99 (or maybe it was 7.99) charge.

So the short of it is they screwed up.. Hopefully the above will help others understand what is "right".

About a year ago, a channel scan with my HDTV found all the local clear QAM channels in the 108 to 117 channel lineup. Nothing was mapped to 5.1, 7.1, etc.

A week ago I set up a new DVD recorder and & did a channel scan. Four locals appeared at the actual frequencies (116 to 117) but the others were at 7.1 and 9.1. I did try manually entering the actual channel numbers, but they are not there. I would think if 108.1 was entered that the tuner would get it, just like the TV receives it. I would think there would be some consistency there, but guess not.

Is this usual to have some channels mapped to virtual channels & some not?
If I re-scanned my TV, would I come up with a split line up now?
My Comcast is from Elmhurst if that means anything.

I think digital channels can include some information to allow for virtual channel numbers. Similar to the way cable boxes work. Remember that for ATSC broadcast, the digital is not the real (2.1 is really 3.1). I think Comcast started adding that to their copies of the broadcast channels a few months ago.

I am going to be subscribing to Comcast HD soon. I live in NW Indiana and was wondering what choice, if any, will I get for the HD tuner that will be provided? If no choice, then which one will I get (can someone include link to specs or atleast indicate what kind of outputs it contains)

Thanks.

I think digital channels can include some information to allow for virtual channel numbers. Similar to the way cable boxes work. Remember that for ATSC broadcast, the digital is not the real (2.1 is really 3.1). I think Comcast started adding that to their copies of the broadcast channels a few months ago.


A friend lives in another suburb and all his Comcast channels are mapped to their virtual VHF numbers on his HDTV. I tried to find the actual channels, just out of curiosity, but could not. It makes me wonder that if once they are mapped, you cannot get them at their actual QAM channels. Just like my recorder. I don't know what controls this. My TV responds to 108.1 and my recorder to 7.1. It just would be nice if both used the same line up.

A friend lives in another suburb and all his Comcast channels are mapped to their virtual VHF numbers on his HDTV. I tried to find the actual channels, just out of curiosity, but could not. It makes me wonder that if once they are mapped, you cannot get them at their actual QAM channels. Just like my recorder. I don't know what controls this. My TV responds to 108.1 and my recorder to 7.1. It just would be nice if both used the same line up.
I see the QAM HD channels as 2.1, 5.5, etc and also then in the upper numbers like 108.1, 113.1. Perhaps you need to do a digital channel scan to see them? On my Sony XBR SXRD, I had to do that. Seems funny that inputting the channel via the digits on the remote won't always tune in without doing the scan first. Also funny a couple of the channels on the 108.1 range are reversed on my Sharp LCD vs the Sony. Why would one tv show a different station on the same cable at the same QAM channel?

I see the QAM HD channels as 2.1, 5.5, etc and also then in the upper numbers like 108.1, 113.1. Perhaps you need to do a digital channel scan to see them? On my Sony XBR SXRD, I had to do that. Seems funny that inputting the channel via the digits on the remote won't always tune in without doing the scan first. Also funny a couple of the channels on the 108.1 range are reversed on my Sharp LCD vs the Sony. Why would one tv show a different station on the same cable at the same QAM channel?

Your Sony is getting the channels at both numbers? Did they both come up when you did the channel scan? Does your Sharp LCD also receive channels at both numbers?

I did a digital channel scan on my Sony RPTV about a year ago and the locals were all in the 108 to 117 range. If I enter 5.1, 7.1, etc, I get nothing.

Your Sony is getting the channels at both numbers? Did they both come up when you did the channel scan? Does your Sharp LCD also receive channels at both numbers?

I did a digital channel scan on my Sony RPTV about a year ago and the locals were all in the 108 to 117 range. If I enter 5.1, 7.1, etc, I get nothing.

When I first got the Sony (10/05), the scan only showed channels like 2.1, 5.5, etc. When I bought the Sharp a year or so ago, I coudn't get those channels and then noticed its scan showed all the channels up around 108.1 and higher. In a couple days later, the Sony could no longer recognize the 2.1, 5.1 channels and I did the scan on it and found the channels around 108; I even reprogrammed my favorites to use those channels. Of course FComcast support had no idea what I was talking about when I called andasked what happened to 2.1, etc. They insisted, you needed a STB/DVR for HD and had no idea what QAM was! Then sometime earlier this year (or laste last year), I saw someone post here about using 2.1 and I redid the scan on the Sony and SHarp and could access those channels again. I still have the 108.1 QAM channels on the Sony favorites list and they still work.

I am going to be subscribing to Comcast HD soon. I live in NW Indiana and was wondering what choice, if any, will I get for the HD tuner that will be provided? If no choice, then which one will I get (can someone include link to specs or atleast indicate what kind of outputs it contains)
For a non-DVR, you may get the new DCH-3200 (digital only) or DCH-6200 (analog + digital.) The DVR versions are the DCH-3416 and DCH-6416. All pretty much have the same connections.
Video: HDMI, component, composite, S-Video, RF
Audio: analog, digital coax and digital optical
Firewire
USB (not active, but can supply power for a cooling fan or something else)
Ethernet (not active)
http://broadband.motorola.com/business/digitalvideo/productline_host_settops.asp

Otherwise, you may get older boxes. The non-DVR 5100/6200 have DVI for digital video. The DVR's are trickier. Older ones have DVI (DCT-6412), newer ones have HDMI (DCT-6412 phase 3, DCT-3412, DCT-3416).

The last 2 digits of the DVR model give the size. 12 = 120G, 16 = 160G.

You can see the 'How to use a Motorola DVR' link below for more information and links. Alot of information is common between the DVR and non-DVR models.

:confused:Does anyone know what channels are replacing the move of Oxygen, Cspan2, Cspan 3?

Are they all HD channels? IF so what are they?

:confused:Does anyone know what channels are replacing the move of Oxygen, Cspan2, Cspan 3?

Are they all HD channels? IF so what are they?

History HD was supposed to come out on 10/16. Last I heard from a CSR (so not a very reliable source :) )is that it got pushed to 11/27.

In a couple days later, the Sony could no longer recognize the 2.1, 5.1 channels and I did the scan on it and found the channels around 108; I even reprogrammed my favorites to use those channels. Of course FComcast support had no idea what I was talking about when I called andasked what happened to 2.1, etc.The cable companies have a habit of occasionally moving the channels around, probably just to frustrate the non-cable box renters. (And naturally, they're going to tell you that you need their box to get them.)

So if you were getting the channels, but then you're not getting some anymore or they moved, the first thing to try is a re-scan. The only problem is, like you said happened to you, a channel may occasionally be moved to where your particular tuner can't get it (and all tuners can be slightly different and funny that way).

It's probably not a bad idea to do one every so often anyways, even if nothing has seemingly changed. You may pick up something you weren't getting before. Maybe every few months (since I know what a pain it is sorting through all that mess).

Then, if you're using something like favorites or TV Guide on Screen, of course you'll need to re-assign the new channel numbers (and hopefully the TVGOS system will accept them).

Can someone help me with this? I'm new to the Chicago area and am looking for the best HD provider. After reading, I'm sure I"m going with Comcast (until other possible providers step in), but was wondering if anyone had the full HD lineup. I've seen bits and pieces, and the Comcast website it out of date already with the HD boom in full effect.

If anyone would take the time to jot down Comcast's HD lineup I would be much obliged.


History channel in HD, should be interesting. I'm just imagining archival footage from the 40's in High Def.....

Thanks again...

The cable companies have a habit of occasionally moving the channels around, probably just to frustrate the non-cable box renters. (And naturally, they're going to tell you that you need their box to get them.)

So if you were getting the channels, but then you're not getting some anymore or they moved, the first thing to try is a re-scan. The only problem is, like you said happened to you, a channel may occasionally be moved to where your particular tuner can't get it (and all tuners can be slightly different and funny that way).

It's probably not a bad idea to do one every so often anyways, even if nothing has seemingly changed. You may pick up something you weren't getting before. Maybe every few months (since I know what a pain it is sorting through all that mess).

Then, if you're using something like favorites or TV Guide on Screen, of course you'll need to re-assign the new channel numbers (and hopefully the TVGOS system will accept them).


My local HD channels, as far as my TV is concerned, have been the same for the last year or so & I have had no problems. It's just the new recorder that now places 2 out of 6 at the virtual channel numbers. I thought about having the TV re-scan the channels, but I'm concerned they too would end up split up. It's just more convenient to keep them one way or the other. I still find it puzzeling that entering 108.1 on the recorder comes up empty.

My parents are moving into a new home that has been wired for cable (2 outlets in each room)

Right now, all the cables are hanging from the rafters in the garage awaiting hookup.
What is the normal procedures for Comcast hooking up cable service? Will they feed the signal to all of those cables (about 10) with some sort of distribution box? Right now my parents will have 2 TVs at the house...will the technician only hookup (at the panel) 2 of those outlets? Or will they feed the entire house?

I ask this here because I am on hold for 20 mins already waiting to ask Comcast directly...I will get answers here faster
Thanks

Anyone have a detailed list of QAM channels on Comcast?

I just installed a MyHD 130 card in my PC and scanned for channels and I can't seem to find ABC-HD or WGN-HD. I get those channels on my Vizio LCD upstairs (also QAM) but can't find them on my MyHD card on my PC.

I get CBS-HD on 2.1, NBC-HD on 5.2, WTTW-HD on 11.2, and FOX-HD on 32.1. In addition to those I get a slew of channels up to 129.10...not sure what that channel is though.

Anyone have a complete list?

Thanks.

Haven't done this in a few years, but a scan brings these up:

86.xx bunch of local access, tv guide, weather channel

88.02 on demand? - hbo larry david
88.03 on demand? - nick

89.03 on demand? - deja vu
89.04 on demand? - cable guy?

90.02 on demand? - csi
90.08 on demand? - csi

92.01 wls-dt
92.02 wgn-dt
92.03 wls 2
92.04 wls weather
105.02 mytv-dt
107.08 spanish
108.01 nba league pass ?
114.01 wbbm-dt
114.02 wttw-dt
114.03 wttw create
114.04 wttw v me
115.02 wfld-dt
115.05 wmaq-dt
115.06 wmaq weather
117.01 base video for on demand
117.03 base video for on demand
122.01 wbbm analog? 4:3
122.02 learning annex?
122.03 telemundo
122.04 wls-dt
122.05 wttw analog
122.06 nw indiana station?
122.07 wciu-dt
122.08 mytv-dt
122.09 spanish (telemundo? - triangle logo)
122.10 univision

123.13 christian station
123.14 wfld-dt
123.15 wmaq-dt
123.16 wjys
123.23 comcast sports?


This is by no means complete, and to be honest I got tired of flicking manually on my slow tuning Mits set. I covered channels 85 - 130. But at least I found ABC and WGN.

I realize cable channels are arbitrary numbers, but they still are supposed to be 6MHz each. Channel 116 has video at 745.25MHz and channel 117 has video at 751.25Mhz. So how is Comcast squeezing in HD CBS at 116.1 and HD WTTW-D at 116.2, plus all the subchannels?

I've read that almost 2 HD channels can fit within the 6MHz bandwith. That's "almost". Then add in the subchannels. And supposedly Comcast does not add any compression. So how do they do it? What am I missing here?

I realize cable channels are arbitrary numbers, but they still are supposed to be 6MHz each. Channel 116 has video at 745.25MHz and channel 117 has video at 751.25Mhz. So how is Comcast squeezing in HD CBS at 116.1 and HD WTTW-D at 116.2, plus all the subchannels?

I've read that almost 2 HD channels can fit within the 6MHz bandwith. That's "almost". Then add in the subchannels. And supposedly Comcast does not add any compression. So how do they do it? What am I missing here?

One 6Mhz slot at 256 QAM has 38 Mbps of bandwidth. CBS is 1080i and can use up to 19Mbps (but it almost never does). WTTW is 720p and it uses lets say around 10Mbps. So that is 29 Mbps. All other subchannels are probably no more than 1-3Mbps.

Here is what I am seeing in TSReader (my CBS and WTTW are on 114):
WBBM ~17Mbps video ~400kbps sound
WTTW ~10Mbps
WTTW Create ~2Mbps
WTTW V ME ~2.5Mbps

Anyone have a detailed list of QAM channels on Comcast?

I just installed a MyHD 130 card in my PC and scanned for channels and I can't seem to find ABC-HD or WGN-HD. I get those channels on my Vizio LCD upstairs (also QAM) but can't find them on my MyHD card on my PC.

I get CBS-HD on 2.1, NBC-HD on 5.2, WTTW-HD on 11.2, and FOX-HD on 32.1. In addition to those I get a slew of channels up to 129.10...not sure what that channel is though.

Anyone have a complete list?
Here is a list for Schaumburg (also appears to cover Streamwood). I haven't done a full check in quite awhile, so it may not be 100% correct. If you or somebody else finds some errors, let me know and I can update it.
http://home.att.net/~andyross/Schaumburg_Cable_Channels.zip

Here is a list for Schaumburg (also appears to cover Streamwood). I haven't done a full check in quite awhile, so it may not be 100% correct. If you or somebody else finds some errors, let me know and I can update it.

http://home.att.net/~andyross/Schaumburg_Cable_Channels.zip

It covers Bartlett too. We are on Schaumburg headend.

RF channel 129 is 256 QAM now too. MeTV is on there among others.

One 6Mhz slot at 256 QAM has 38 Mbps of bandwidth. CBS is 1080i and can use up to 19Mbps (but it almost never does). WTTW is 720p and it uses lets say around 10Mbps. So that is 29 Mbps. All other subchannels are probably no more than 1-3Mbps.

Here is what I am seeing in TSReader (my CBS and WTTW are on 114):
WBBM ~17Mbps video ~400kbps sound
WTTW ~10Mbps
WTTW Create ~2Mbps
WTTW V ME ~2.5Mbps


Thanks for the information.
I guess if CBS and the others decided to use the full 19Mbps then Comcast would have to rearrange things.

I just looked at how Comcast channels were lined up. Channels 108, 116 and 117 each have a pair of HD locals. Each pair has a 1080i and a 720p. I'm presuming that was done intentionally in order to squeeze in as much data as possible.

One 6Mhz slot at 256 QAM has 38 Mbps of bandwidth. CBS is 1080i and can use up to 19Mbps (but it almost never does). WTTW is 720p and it uses lets say around 10Mbps. So that is 29 Mbps. All other subchannels are probably no more than 1-3Mbps.

Here is what I am seeing in TSReader (my CBS and WTTW are on 114):
WBBM ~17Mbps video ~400kbps sound
WTTW ~10Mbps
WTTW Create ~2Mbps
WTTW V ME ~2.5Mbps


Just thinking some more about this. From what I've read before, presuming I understood correctly, an OTA 6MHz channel can handle 19.3 Mbps. Yet a 6Mhz QAM channel can handle 38 Mbps. If so, is QAM modulation more efficient than OTA? Or is it using additional compression?

Just thinking some more about this. From what I've read before, presuming I understood correctly, an OTA 6MHz channel can handle 19.3 Mbps. Yet a 6Mhz QAM channel can handle 38 Mbps. If so, is QAM modulation more efficient than OTA? Or is it using additional compression?
I think part of the reason is that ATSC needs to handle multipath and other noise and interference issues. QAM, especially the 256QAM being used now, requires a high SNR to work properly. Typically, if SNR starts getting below 33dB, the box labels it as FAIR. Below about 30, it is POOR.

A single 256QAM channel can handle two 1080i's. I doubt if any broadcaster uses the full bandwidth for even their HD feed. There are dual 1080's. HBO and Showtime (I assume they are native 1080i), Stars and Discovery HD Theater, HGTV and Food.

It covers Bartlett too. We are on Schaumburg headend.

RF channel 129 is 256 QAM now too. MeTV is on there among others.

Crap, they moved things around. Now they are going up to 825MHz. 807 used to be the top. The only time I saw 825 before was when they were just rolling out ADS, and had a few local access and the TV Guide on it for a few weeks.

I'll have to go through and update the list again...

So far, it looks like everything on 627MHz (91) has moved to 825MHz (129).

andyross63 -

Thanks for the additional information.
Mike

Is Comcast using any SD digital boxes in the Chicago area smaller than the DCT-2244?

My parents recently upgraded to Digital Starter, and have 4 of those monsters (I think that was the right model number), all of which looked like they served time in Iraq. For anybody who thinks their Comcast DVR is slow, try one of these. Every channel changes flickers the infobar and screen a few times over several seconds. The guide only goes out about 2.5 days. It draws graphics slower than my 6412 in HD mode. There is no mini-viewer on the upper-right while in most of the menus. No stereo if you use the RF output.

Is Comcast using any SD digital boxes in the Chicago area smaller than the DCT-2244?

My parents recently upgraded to Digital Starter, and have 4 of those monsters (I think that was the right model number), all of which looked like they served time in Iraq. For anybody who thinks their Comcast DVR is slow, try one of these. Every channel changes flickers the infobar and screen a few times over several seconds. The guide only goes out about 2.5 days. It draws graphics slower than my 6412 in HD mode. There is no mini-viewer on the upper-right while in most of the menus. No stereo if you use the RF output.

When they forced all of chicago onto digital they sent the dct700 in most cases. Its tiny. Cable modem sized. I cant speak to performance though because mine didnt work and I ended up with some random large unit the guy had in his truck.

Has Anyone heard a Buzz about new channels in November? Dish has Discovery, TLC, Science and Animal Planet in HD. As well as History and the HDNet channels. We really should get these soon, I mean doesn't Comcast want to stay competetive?

For the record the Voom! Networks on Dish are boring and repetitve -- wouldn't even give up Comcast to have those stations.

But basic networks like those above, plus the upcoming SPEED, F/X, Weather Channel, CNN & ESPNNEWS -- we should get for what we are paying a month. Not that Dish or DirecTV are a bargain.

Were just asking for a dozen or so more HD channels, just dump a few more analogs -- we would be set.

Coments?

The only one so far semi confirmed is History HD on November 27 (pushed back from original October 16 date).