Comcast has announced that HDTV channels will soon be available to us in the Denver area. Per the CSR that I spoke with they should be available by the end of August.

I started this thread so we can share our experiences.

Jeff

Jeff,

Thanks for starting this thread, I've been wondering what's going on. Somebody posted in another thread (I think it was the Denver OTA thread) a week or so ago that Comcast HD in Denver was delayed indefinitely.

I noticed a few weeks ago that they had three channels in the guide that I assumed were HD. They had channel 9 on 653, channel 6 on 658, and InHD on 666. Of course, with my digital cable box I was only getting sound on the two locals. I didn't try the InHD channel. When I checked a few days ago, all of those channels had disappeared from the guide. I assumed this was bad news.

When I got the digital service a couple of months ago the tech told me that they were testing HD with their employees who had HD TVs. A couple of weeks later, when my digital signal disappeared completely, the line tech told me that HD would be available in early August. He also indicated that Comcast had or will have a fiber optic connection to each of the local stations and will send that signal over the cable. He also told me that everybody at Comcast would be getting training on HD on July 31.

In the end, I have no idea what's going on, but your post gives me hope. I live at the bottom of Bear Valley right near the creek, and I don't think I have any hope of getting a signal OTA. So, I'm anxiously awaiting Comcast's offering. Heck, I don't even care if its just a few stations at first. I really want to see some HD on my new Sammy HLN507W!!!

Tim

Tim,

I live in the southeast Denver area and we just got upgraded the beginning of this month.
I had the high speed internet installed just a week ago.
Of course I asked the install tech as much as I could about the status of the HD and when Comcast would roll it out.
The tech told me that he personally knew 2 install techs that were in training for the HDTV that week.
At that time he told me that they still hoped to have the channels available by the end of August.
He also told me that they were testing the service with the Comcast employees that have HDTV sets.
From what he told me they should initially offer ABC, NBC, PBS, HBO-HD, SHOWTIME-HD.
I also think he mentioned 2 INHD channels that should be available around the middle of Sept.

I am in the same spot as you Tim, I also have a HLN507W and would love to see how it will look with a HDTV signal.
Hopefully soon !!!

Jeff

I hope he's right about all of those channels. I don't get Showtime, but the rest of them will be great.

You must be loving that hi-speed Internet. I've had it for a couple of years now, but I remember how great it was at first. Now, it just seems normal. Its amazing how we adjust to things. I suppose HDTV will be the same way.

Tim

I talked to a Comcast tech in Highlands Ranch last week and he said they were rolling HD in the Ranch by the end of the year.

Well, I just called Comcast and the CSR told me that HD is still in testing. Apparently, they were planning on launch at the end of this month, but they aren't going to make it.

It was interesting that the CSR said that they get a status report every morning. I guess they must be getting a lot of calls and are trying to keep the CSRs up to date. I was unable to get a target date for launch.:mad:

Tim

Yes Denver will have Comcast HDTV soon,

I was at a friends house yesterday, he is testing the Motorola 5100 box. The picture quality looks great.
As of last night he was able to receive 4 channels:

664 - INHD Preview (2 channels will go live on Sept 15th)
658 - KRMA (the local PBS affiliate)
653 - KUSA (the local NBC affiliate)
650 - Showtime East

I guess by the end of this month they hope to have 3-4 more channels available my guess is HBO East, ESPN-HD and maybe a few more local channels (Fox-480p or ABC).

He says that Comcast is working hard to get everything up and running.

I know I will be getting the service the 1st day they offer it...

Ryan

Does anyone here know whether a STB w/QAM or QAM capable HDTV is able to receive any HDTV during this test period without using the 5100?

Originally posted by mjmbond
Does anyone here know whether a STB w/QAM or QAM capable HDTV is able to receive any HDTV during this test period without using the 5100?

Yes, people have done this in both Chicago Comcast and San Francisco Comcast while beta testing was ongoing. But there are no STBs you can buy at retail which do QAM, at least currently. So you need an HDTV with integrated QAM tuner-- I understand a couple of the Mits and a Hitachi have these.

When this was first announced, I was ready to drop $$$ for Comcast HD immediately. Seeing the latest propoals for the channel lineup is giving me pause, though. It is looking like CBS will not be there, ABC is questionable, and ESPN-HD is also not confirmed. I don't get either HBO or Showtime, so those dont' currently interest me.

I'm now seriously thinking of getting an OTA HD card for the pc in the interim until Comcasts offering matures. I'm not in any huge hurry, though, so I'll at least let them officially announce it before making a decision.

Originally posted by D-TOWN
I was at a friends house yesterday, he is testing the Motorola 5100 box. The picture quality looks great.
As of last night he was able to receive 4 channels:

Ryan

Well, that is good news. I noticed that the 3 channels have reappeared in the guide, but I didn't see the Showtime listing. Does anybody know if the InHD channels are pay channels, or are they free "showcase" channels? I couldn't tell from looking at their Web site (http://www.inhd.com/). It sounds like they will be good channels, but I probably wouldn't want to pay any extra for them.

Tim

Tim,

From all the posts that I have read about INHD the channels will be free for those subscribing to the basic HDTV package (not an additional charge like Showtime or HBO).

Jeff

Jeff,

That's pretty much what I thought. Free sounds great to me. I guess this is a competitor for HDNet.

On another note, does anybody have a clue about what Comcast will be charging for HD cable? It seems that they have different policies in every market. I've seen everything from $5 to over $10 per month. Also, in some places they don't require you to have digital cable, and in others they do. I already have digital, so I'm hoping to keep that box to drive the TiVo, and I'll connect the HD box directly to the TV.

Tim

The CSR I spoke with said that you would get the HD channels as part of any of the digital packages, at least through the end of the year. She said she did not know if rate hikes would occur next year. Of course, we'll see how long it is before we actually have the opportunity to get these channels (from that point, it may not be long until the end of the year).

Just for grins, thought I would post the official sign-up form for getting notified when Comcast HD is available:

http://www.comcastcolorado.com/form/default.asp?src=HDTV

Good one, yahoojames.:D

I actually filled out that form a few weeks ago. I fully expect that I'll have HD cable before I get the e-mail from them. That's exactly what happened with my cable modem service a couple of years ago. I was excited that it would soon be available, and called Comcast several times. They repeatedly told me that I would receive something in the mail and that somebody would probably even put a notice on my door as soon as it was available. Well, I actually had the service several weeks before I was notified by mail, and nobody ever put a flyer on my door.

BTW, I have to say that Comcast has always been very good to me. I have no complaints, other than wishing they would get this HD stuff ready right now.

Tim

I was hoping that the Motorola 5100 box that they use could recieve OTA signals, it would seem that as a decoder it would be no problem to have it do this, is that not the case?

Policy,

You're out of luck. The 5100 does not have OTA abilities. You'll need a separate OTA tuner. You can get a lot of info on the 5100 at http://www.cjhengineering.com/5100faq.htm.

Hopefully, Comcast will carry all of the locals soon.

Tim

Well INHD did go live early in Denver (test mode only).
I watched the US Open over the weekend at my friends house.
The picture was very nice and filled the entire screen (16x9).
I had never seen tennis look so good.

I was in making a payment at the local service center today and asked when the HD will be available to the public. All they could tell me was that it should be soon but gave no exact date...

Ryan

Anyone heard if/when the Motorola 6200 (6208) STB will be offered in the Denver market? Here's the press release on the agreement from May:

http://www.motorola.com/mediacenter/press/releases/May/MotPR_2739_2224.rtf

The details I saw in the Boston market thread said it was expected sometime after Nov 1. I guess based on the press release and their web site, Comcast will be offering both VOD and PVR.

James

I just had an idea to search Google News for Comcast and Denver. I was hoping to turn up some obscure story with all the details of the HD launch. No joy.

However, I did find this interesting tidbit from the Denver Business Journal: http://denver.bizjournals.com/denver/stories/2003/09/01/daily1.html

Basically, it says that two Broncos MNF games will be broadcast on Comcast (22 Sept and 3 Nov). It then says that the service isn't yet available in Denver. It strikes me as odd that they would publish this on the DBJ web site since we don't have HD yet. With InHD rolling out on the 15th and the Broncos on the 22nd, I'm wondering if they will try to have it available by then? Also, I haven't noticed KMGH in the guide near the other HD channels (650' to 660's), but that's where the MNF games are. KMGH does have a digital channel for news on 207.

Tim

Still no word from Comcast, but I did notice several new channels today when I checked the guide. We now have 8 channels in the HD range (650's and 660's):

Showtime East on 650
HBO East on 651 (newly added)
KUSA on 653
KDVR on 655 (newly added, I presume this will be Fox's 480p widescreen format)
KRMA on 658
In Demand 1 on 664
In Demand 2 on 667 (newly added)
ESPN on 668 (newly added)

That's not a bad lineup. I'd guess we won't be getting CBS for awhile, but I hope that ABC will be added.

Tim

I just signed up for notification at comcast and it says...
Coming in August!

I currently have Dish, but my decision to stay will be made based on HDTV content and a good HDTV PVR. Does anyone know if COmcast will offer such a device and do I (can I) buy it or lease it?

Thanks,

Any update here Denverites? I hate to post and get someone excited, but Im dying for HDTV lovin :(

Well, I don't think this really means anything, but the Best Buy ad in today's paper has an offer for Comcast HD. If you buy an HDTV, a Comcast starter kit (what the heck is that?), and sign up for HD digital cable then you can get $100 cash back.

These ads are typically put together weeks in advance, and the HD cable was supposed to be here already, so I doubt that this signifies that the service is imminent.

On another note, the ESPN HD truck will be at the Aurora Best Buy on 9/29.

Tim

Does anyone know if the upgrade project in the neighborhood of University and Dry Creek is completed yet? I would love to get HDTV and High Speed Internet.

Your lineup tells you whether you have been upgraded yet or not. If you can only get channels up to the mid 60s with analong cable, then you haven't been upgraded yet. If you can get channels up to the high 70s, then you have been upgraded.

9news just ran a story on HDTV and Comcast's new offering, I'll leave the channel 9 jokes to the tower thread. Anyhow they interviewed a guy getting it installed today. I just called and they should be here tomorrow morning. At first she said I'd have to wait to order tomorrow, then went and asked someone.

Just spoke to the "cable guy" working at a cabinet near my house. He stated they MUST be up and running by 01 Oct to avoid fines from the FCC.

The package will include high speed internet, digital cable, HDTV.

I live in Ken Caryl Valley, unincorporated Jefferson county.

Hey, thanks for the heads up ParTi. I just called Comcast and scheduled for tomorrow. I cannot wait to see HD on my TV. The CSR said she had been taking quite a few HD phone calls today and that the service would be free through the end of the year. As of January, it looks like a $5 per month add-on fee for HD to go along with the one time $15.99 service upgrade/set-up fee now.

Yes!!! I just called Comcast and they will be out on Wednesday morning to do the install.

To confirm what SpaceSpiff said, it will be completely free until the end of the year, and then an additional $5 per month starting in January.

But, here's the really good news (I think?): They are using the Motorola 6200 box. In fact, the CSR told me that the Moto 5100 won't work at all. She also said that they would be rolling out the 6208 at some point in the future (that's the one with the hard drive).

BTW, I was Maria's first call about HDTV, so I don't think the word has gotten out much yet.

Tim

When you guys ordered it. Did they say anything about having to have Digital cable as well? I wouldn't mind getting HD from comcast if I don't have to subscibe to digital cable as well. This should hold me over untill the Dish 921 comes out and the bugs are worked out.

Oh, by the way. Did you know about this aspect of the 6200. I just might not go with the 921 if Comcast adds enough channels in the nest few months.


From Motorola "The DCT6200 offers a range of standard digital and analog interfaces, which facilitate consumer interaction in multiple DTV and IP interface configurations. The DCT6200 includes an MPEG encoder, making the set-top "PVR-capable" with the addition of an external 1394 hard disk drive. These enhancements provide an even more compelling, easy-to-use, HDTV and PVR experience for the cable customer."

This means you should be able to go out and by any size Fire Wire hard drive and hook it up to make an instant HDTV PVR. A 200gb hard drive would be great.

Originally posted by mayest
Still no word from Comcast, but I did notice several new channels today when I checked the guide. We now have 8 channels in the HD range (650's and 660's):

Showtime East on 650
HBO East on 651 (newly added)
KUSA on 653
KDVR on 655 (newly added, I presume this will be Fox's 480p widescreen format)
KRMA on 658
In Demand 1 on 664
In Demand 2 on 667 (newly added)
ESPN on 668 (newly added)

That's not a bad lineup. I'd guess we won't be getting CBS for awhile, but I hope that ABC will be added.

Tim

That's the line-up from what I've read. Why wouldn't CBS and ABC be in there already? Where's Showtime?

PS When are the Moto 6xxx series being released? My service choice will be based on the availability of an HD PVR. I assume the HD package will come with a set-top box.

Ordered mine this morning at 6:50 a.m. Got a Thursday pm installation. They had Wednesday pm available, but wouldn't work with my schedule.

The CSR had no clue what she was doing. Didn't even know HD was being offered. Then she quoted me $15.99/month. I explained the article in the Rocky this morning stated $15.99 install, free until end of year, then $5/month after that. She kept searching for that deal and said it was correct. Still not 100% sure thats what will be on my bill, but I'll worry about it when the bill comes. She also said I was her first HD call.

My HD install is scheduled for this AM (Tues.). I was told there is a one time $15.99 install charge which includes a "cable kit" containing a set of component cables. Comcast's digital service is required, with the least expensive package ("Classic") starting at $52.99. There will not be any extra charges for the HD channels until 2004. Comcast is currently offering a "Classic +" package for the same $52.99, which includes HBO (not HD).

FWIW, I was told that Comcast plans to have ABC in HD by next Monday night for the Broncos game. I was also told that Comcast plans to have 12 channels of HD (wouldn't specify which...) by year end.

MiD

Just an update, the service is installed. Just to confirm earlier posts, only the limited channel selection already discussed. No Discovery HD, no DCT6100. Installed the standard DCT5100 that others have talked about, didn't even get a new remote. INHD is about the only one broadcasting HD at the moment, does look good.

Originally posted by Couch Patato
When you guys ordered it. Did they say anything about having to have Digital cable as well? I wouldn't mind getting HD from comcast if I don't have to subscibe to digital cable as well. This should hold me over untill the Dish 921 comes out and the bugs are worked out.


I didn't ask if you need to subscribe to digital cable (I already do), but the e-mail I got from them today says, "Basic service subscription is required to receive HDTV." I read that to mean that digital is not required, but I could be wrong. I know that I've read that in some places Comcast requires a digital plan, and in others they don't.

I did read the Moto 6200 document on their Web site and saw that about the hard drive add on. Still, I doubt that we can just connect a hard drive and suddenly have a PVR. I'm sure Comcast will want to charge for that.

Tim

Originally posted by ParTi
Just an update, the service is installed. Just to confirm earlier posts, only the limited channel selection already discussed. No Discovery HD, no DCT6100. Installed the standard DCT5100 that others have talked about, didn't even get a new remote. INHD is about the only one broadcasting HD at the moment, does look good.

That's a bummer about the 5100. My CSR said that box wouldn't even work with the system here and said I'd get the 6200. Oh well, I guess you can't believe everything a CSR says.

Did you ask if you could also keep your existing box? I'd like to keep my old digital box just to run my TiVo. I like the idea of TiVoing the analog and digital channels. The CSR said that would be up to the installer.

I'll post tomorrow with my experience.

Tim

Re: HDTV Installed

MOT 5100 was installed today. DVI port is disabled, which IMHO, is a major bummer. Optical out & DD 5.1 are working fine.

I'm getting PBS, NBC, HBO-HD, INHD, INHD2, ESPN-HD & FOX. The HD stuff all looks great, with the exception of FOX, which is so bad in comparison it's (almost) funny. It'll be nice when FOX goes "true" HD this winter...

I have no idea what level of compression Comcast is using, but I think the picture(s) are less artifact prone than what I've seen from Dish & D-TV. I'm very happy with the quality of the image as viewed on my 100" Firehawk from a Sharp Z10k.

MiD

Originally posted by mjmbond
I have no idea what level of compression Comcast is using, but I think the picture(s) are less artifact prone than what I've seen from Dish & D-TV. I'm very happy with the quality of the image as viewed on my 100" Firehawk from a Sharp Z10k.

MiD

Would you comment on how the locals look compared to Dish? Maybe you could watch some football this weekend. Sometime soon I will be getting a 50" TV. I can see plenty of compression artifacts from Dish on my 30" CRT.

Thanks,

Originally posted by Tweakophyte
Would you comment on how the locals look compared to Dish? Maybe you could watch some football this weekend. Sometime soon I will be getting a 50" TV. I can see plenty of compression artifacts from Dish on my 30" CRT.

Thanks,

The non HD locals are analog, even with Comcast's "digital" service; the digital service does nothing to improve the picture quality. I think the picture quality of these non HD channels is not quite as good as the Dish feed for the locals. However, the artifacts on the Dish feed can be so distracting (to me) at times, that I actually prefer a less sharp analog image to the artifact prone digital one. I guess it just depends on which problems bother you more.

The only Denver locals available now in HD are NBC, FOX & PBS. I have not seen NBC in HD from the sat providers, so I can't make a comparison. IMO, the PBS feed looks better than the sats, and FOX in HD looks too bad to bother with...

I watched the NY/Baltimore game on INHD last night and found the picture stunning! If this is indicative of the sports feeds we can expect on CBS & ABC, then I'd say that the cable HD feeds will surpass the sats. Rumor has it that Comcast may add ABC some time this week, in time for next weeks Monday Night Football!

MiD

I had my Comcast HD installed yesterday with quite an amount of work from 3 installers, but after all was said and done I would agree that the picture is at least equal if not better than what I had on satellite. The INHD channels are very nice and from what the installers told me yesterday ABC, CBS and Discovery are all very near to being turned on in HD. I agree that the non-hd channels are a bit lower in quality than sat but during the next storm of some sort I will be glad to have a little lower quality without the interruptions.

Originally posted by Cynergy73
I had my Comcast HD installed yesterday with quite an amount of work from 3 installers, but after all was said and done I would agree that the picture is at least equal if not better than what I had on satellite. The INHD channels are very nice and from what the installers told me yesterday ABC, CBS and Discovery are all very near to being turned on in HD. I agree that the non-hd channels are a bit lower in quality than sat but during the next storm of some sort I will be glad to have a little lower quality without the interruptions.

Just out of curiosity, why was your install difficult? I had one installer, and he was done in about 10 minutes, including his call to HQ for activation of the box.

MiD

[QUOTE]Originally posted by mayest

"But, here's the really good news (I think?): They are using the Motorola 6200 box. In fact, the CSR told me that the Moto 5100 won't work at all. She also said that they would be rolling out the 6208 at some point in the future (that's the one with the hard drive).

BTW, I was Maria's first call about HDTV, so I don't think the word has gotten out much yet. "

Comment: Maria is alone on this. My CSR said "we were briefed on this yesterday... only Mot 5100 box will be used. I get install Thurs; we'll see.

My install was difficult because of system problems with the CSR that I had not knowing the correct procedures for HDTV.

I got the 5100 and the 3 installers that were at my install didn't think that the 6200 would be coming any time in the near future.

My primary goal is DVI-out on Comcast box. I understand 5100 my have this but it's not "enabled"? Can this get done? By installer? Any advice I can pass on to installers who are typically less informed than you avsforum contributors?

I had the Comcast installer out this morning. He installed the 5100 box, so my CSR was definitely wrong about the 6200.

The install was not a piece of cake because it was his first. Ultimately, I think his problem was simple impatience. Apparently, after getting the signals from Comcast to activate the box it still takes awhile to actually get the HD channels to show up. We tried everything at first: changing the component cables, changing the box, setting the user menu on the box, made several calls, and so on. After about 45 minutes or so the HD channels came on. He didn't know anything about the settings on the Moto 5100 so I had to print the first half of the manual for him after I did my magic. Fortunately, I have done a lot of reading on these forums about the box. He was very grateful that I knew what I was doing.

I have a Samsung HLN507W so I set the box to 720P output (the installer swore that it was impossible!!!) and the 4:3 overide to off. He also gave me an optical cable which I hooked up after he left.

The picture quality on the InHD channels is unreal. Literally like looking out a window. KRMA looked really good, but it was a cartoon so I don't know if it was HD or not. It was a 16:9 picture, so I guess it was. None of the other channels are showing HD material now, so I can't judge them. I also have only heard a slight bit of 5.1 sound during some thing on InHD. I wasn't watching at the time, but my receiver lit up like it does with 5.1 sound. A quick glance at the TV showed a frog (in HD!!!!) on the screen. It then went back to normal sound. I'll see what it sounds like tonight.

My analog channels over the component cable look the same as before, not worse as I have heard they might. I get pretty good analog pictures because I'm getting a strong signal (they had to turn up the amps about a month or so ago).

So, now I have the glorious HD picture, 5.1 sound, and good analog. I was able to keep my old Moto 2224 box so that I can get the digital channels for my TiVo. The only problem is that the 5100 and the 2224 use the same IR commands, so right now I have a newspaper blocking the 2224 (TiVo controls the 2224 through a serial cable, not IR Blaster).

Tim

Originally posted by JKM
My primary goal is DVI-out on Comcast box. I understand 5100 my have this but it's not "enabled"? Can this get done? By installer? Any advice I can pass on to installers who are typically less informed than you avsforum contributors?

DVI is not enabled on these boxes. I don't think Comcast does that anywhere. The HD channel lineup card they gave me says:

"Important: The Digital Video Interface (DVI) function on the rear panel of your digital converter is not enabled at this time. Please do not use this connector between the converter and your HDTV set. Component outpus should only be used."

I wish they would enable them because I hear DVI gives a much better picture.

Tim

I hope these installers learned something from you guys. As my name suggests, I'm new to this. Tim, is their any quick advise you can give me if my installer knows as little about about setting up the Moto 5100 as I do?

Also, my CSR said I would get HBO in HD for the "Classic +" fee of $52.95. Is this not the case?

I'll post experiences with the install Thursday. (If I'm not glued to the TV)

J. D.

J.D.

I have a pdf of the users guide for the 5100. I thought it was on Motorola's Web site, but I couldn't find it there. I turned up this link on a Google search:
http://gicout60.gic.gi.com/customer_docs/user_guides/487412-001.pdf
That's exactly the version I have. I also found another one, elsewhere but I like this one better.

You can also try http://www.cjhengineering.com/5100faq.htm, but it wasn't coming up for me right now. I've read it before and it is very informative.

I don't know what the various plans cost. I have a digital package of some sort that includes the whole HBO complex, an add-on that includes Tech Tv and Bloomberg and a couple of other channels (that was $5.99 extra I think, but I really wanted those two channels). That package, along with my cable modem service, costs me a total of about $99 a month. That will go up to about $120 in a couple of months I think (I got a special a few months back when I finally got digital). BTW, even before I got digital I was paying a couple of dollars over $100. So, the digital stuff and HD is actually cheaper for now than my analog service was (with cable modem).

Just having multiple HBO's, instead of one, is worth the price of digital for me. I can't wait to see "The Sopranos" in HD.

Tim

The Colorado comcast HDTV site (colorado.comcast.com) shows ABC as being available (although per their reps, ABC is not yet offered).

Has anyone received further word as to when ABC hdtv will be offered? Like many others in the Denver area, I am unable to receive ABC's OTA signal.

Thanks,
N

I doubit it will do any good given how well ABC responded to people regarding OTA signals, but I sent the following to them on their website comment page...
------------
With Comcast now offering HDTV over cable I thought more people would be able to receive your HD signal. However, despite being listed on the Comcast website, your channel is not part of the intial rollout.

Why not?
Will it be by Monday so that I can watch MNF with the Bronco's in HD?

Please try and resolve whatever issues remain and get this done. Considering how poorly you have done so far getting your signal out to the Denver area this would go a long way to mending bridges.

Well I just had the HD installed and it does look nice !

The tech was out this morning and he told me I was his 3rd HD install.
I guess the learning curve went up because my install went very quickly.
We set the Moto 5100 box up through component to my Samsung HLN507W. The tech when right into the service menu and set the box to out put 720p. The audio is runing on optical to the receiver.

Like noted above the picture quality is great. I think that HBO looks better than Showtime. INHD had a MLB game on and it was amazing.
Looking forward to testing the service out more.

On a side note there was a news release stating that Comcast will show the Denver Broncos on Monday Night Football in HD this coming week. I will see if I can find that article again.

Got to run,

Jeff

Called today for service. Well don't bother if you're not yet upgraded for Cable Internet service (County Line & University).

Does Comcast Denver really have 80% of thier customers upgraded?

Well after waiting 4.5hrs for a tech to come out the HD install is done....in about 20 minutes. The picture looks great on the HD channels and true digital. I had the old Moto 2100 digital tuner before and I would say that the analog channels look better through the component feed with the 4:3 overide set to 480i. I was worried that the analogs would look worse from what I had heard but not true IMHO. I have a Z1 with 92" screen and at that size a bad picture can really look bad, but it is definetly watchable. Also I read that someone saw ABC advertised as available on the comcastcolorado.com website so I went there and nothing. Looked at the source code for the page and sure enough ABC is there, it is just commented out (code there but not shown.....yet). So my guess is that the web page designer was told to put ABC on there because it will be available shortly, like this Monday Night, but just comment it out for now. However he forgot to comment it out so some of you saw it for a while....woops. We are going to have to stay on top of Comcast about upgrading to the 6XXXX series boxes I was dissapointed they had their big rollout with equipment that is being fased out (5100 series).

here is the html code with ABC included but commented out

<!--<tr valign="top">
<td align="center"><font size="-1" face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif"><img src="../images/KMGHlogo.gif" width="60" height="51"></font></td>
<td>
<ul>
<li><font size="-1" face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">According
To Jim</font></li>
<li><font size="-1" face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Alias</font></li>
<li><font size="-1" face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">ABC’s
Thursday Night At The Movies</font></li>
<li><font size="-1" face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">ABC’s
Saturday Night At The Movies</font></li>
<li><font size="-1" face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">ABC’s
Sunday Night At The Movies</font></li>
<li><font size="-1" face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Dragnet</font></li>
<li><font size="-1" face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">The Drew
Carey Show</font></li>
<li><font size="-1" face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">8 Simple
Rules For Dating My Teenage Daughter</font></li>
<li><font size="-1" face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Less Than
Perfect</font></li>
<li><font size="-1" face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Life With
Bonnie</font></li>
<li><font size="-1" face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">George Lopez</font></li>
<li><font size="-1" face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">Monday Night
Football</font></li>
<li><font size="-1" face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">My Wife
And Kids</font></li>
<li><font size="-1" face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">NYPD Blue</font></li>
<li><font size="-1" face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif">The Practice</font></li>
</ul></td>
</tr-->

Comcast HDTV installed today in the capital hill "rebuilt" Copmcast area. No box but the 5100 available, period.

And although installer thought DVI output was possible, it wasn't. It's indeed not "enabled." My guess is that Comcast got bids for boxes and found that DVI-out would cost a few dollars more and decided it wouldn't be appreciated by enough customers to bother with it. Component hook-up HD looks great and my analog channels are fine.

Another shortcut by Comcast: the RF out on the back doesn't bypass the 5100 so it comes out as Ch. 3. The owners manual --not available from Comcast, see above in this thread for web site for .pdf version -- describes a RF bypass feature that could have been ordered by Comcast but wasn't. Thus a VCR downstream can't scroll through channels within the VCR tuner, the signal it gets is Ch. 3 only. A return to the dark ages of VCR hook-up. The box does have composite out V, A/R and A/L out so it's possible to get better than RF signals out, but the Ch. 3 RF is annoying. Splitter will solve this.

Also, my CSR had said the free-to-EOY HDTV offer would inc. both the the HD HBO and HD Showtime. Not so. These are "premium," just like w/analog serv. so only if you subscribe to either or both will you get access to the HDTV (East only) broadcasts.

On balance this was good experience with competent installer not intimidated by the HT hookup. He had done "a dozen" HDTV installs, mostly on TV sets, and I was his first to request DVI connection. All cables provided -- he had both optical and coax for dig. audio. -- and component cables he said were "probably cheap."

Raiders Monday? My installer said ABC was just a matter of negotiations on cost to carry it, consistent with above in thread discovery of ABC hidden in the web page.

i have an install tommorow morning. my tv is a toshiba 50H82. i was wondering, should i set the box to 720p or 1080i? thanks alot....

brett

OK, So I got my Comcast HD installed on Wednesday, but I have run into an issue. I have a Denon AVR-3200 receiver, and I am trying to use the coax or optical out on the Motorola 5100 cable box. On "analog" channels (those below 80) I get sound out of both the digital coax, and the optical line. If I tune in Digital,Premium, or HD channels, I lose sound and the error/overload light turns red on my Denon. I have tried every possible setting, and nothing works. I can take the coax and optical line off the cable box and connect it to my DVD player, and I get DD sound without changing a setting. Comcast brought a Basic Sony receiver and hooked it up, and the sound worked flawlessly on the Digital outputs. Does anyone have any ideas?? I have e-mailed Denon, but I am not expecting much from that. I was very impressed with Comcast's commitment to getting it to work, but they have concluded it is my receiver issue, so now I am stuck. :mad:


On the other hand the video is incredible, and the analog outputs work on all the channels, so I have analog sound and an incredible picture. I have noticed that sometimes the picture is "wrong" like last night the Tonight show was 16X9, and tonight it was 4:3 but still HD, and ER was 4X3, and I thought ER should be 16X9, but I can't be 100% sure since this is the first time it has been on since I got the box.. I could tune in PBS and the picture went back to 16X9, so it appears to be a comcast issue on NBC.

I you have a HDTV monitor and are trying to decide if it is worth it, all I can say is YES YES YES. :) :) :)

Thanx,
Benzyl

First off...
More! More! More! I may actually switch from Dish if Comcast can get ABC and CBS. That will give me HD whilst E* and D* get their PVR/DRV stuff together. (The Dish 6000 sucks).


Originally posted by zeff
I had the old Moto 2100 digital tuner before and I would say that the analog channels look better through the component feed with the 4:3 overide set to 480i. I was worried that the analogs would look worse from what I had heard but not true IMHO. I have a Z1 with 92" screen and at that size a bad picture can really look bad, but it is definetly watchable.

Have you (or anyone) compared the way the locals look on big screen TVs on Comcast (with the 5100) versus Dish? I see compression artifacts on my 31" TV fairly easily with Dish. I'm going to get a 50" HDTV soon and there's a good chance I'll switch to Comcast. Has anyone switched?

Thanks,
PS Keep the stories coming!

Originally posted by brhow
i have an install tommorow morning. my tv is a toshiba 50H82. i was wondering, should i set the box to 720p or 1080i? thanks alot....

Based on what I've read, you should set the box to the native resolution of the set, to minimize the conversion that goes on. I think this only applies to displays with discrete pixels like LCD or DLP, so I'm not sure if it matters what you do for CRT's. You may have to search some other threads for more info.

Got my install done this morning, the entire process took maybe 15 minutes. So far, I am fairly impressed. The stations that are broadcasting in HD look great. HBOHD looks better than a DVD, while some of the content on INHD is awe-inspiring. I look forward to the Tonight Show and Sunday Night Football to see some true high-definition material.

I am having one problem. My INHD1 channel is having a brief audio and video dropout about every 10 seconds. The audio will drop out very briefly, and then at the same time the picture will do that weird digital pixelation thing very quickly. Is this a problem others have seen that maybe just needs to get worked out on the Comcast end, or should I call service already?

Let's hope that Comcast gets ABC up real soon, like in the next 72 hours! An addition of HDNET and Discovery HD would be warmly welcomed as well, but first priority needs to be Monday Night Football, and in the not so distant future, the Super Bowl.

Brett

Thanks for the help everyone. I finally got hooked up Thursday. They couldn't activate the box right away because someone had cut the fiber optic cable somewhere. My comcast Internet was down most of the day also.

HD looks great. GIVE ME MORE! Did you any of you guys catch that thing about penguins on INHD. It was literally like looking through a window at them.

Like Benzyl, I am wondering why the Tonight Show and ER were shown in 4:3. Are they always?

I also sent an email to KMGH website asking when ABC hd would be available from comcast.
Here is the response directly from Cindy L. Velasquez herself:

"The retransmission consent necessary for carriage is currently being
negotiated. We hope it is resolved soon."

J. D.

Originally posted by nu2this
Like Benzyl, I am wondering why the Tonight Show and ER were shown in 4:3. Are they always?
I saw ER on Bell ExpressVu and it was HD. It's probably a KUSA issue, someone not flipping the switch.

Is anybody else having problems with INHD1? In my post above I mentioned this, that that the audio is dropping out briefly every 5 seconds, accompanied by the screen pixeling out. I called Comcast and complained, and they sent the original tech back out to take a look. He said he has seen this on every install he has done in Boulder "25 or so", and only on this channel. He said there is nothing that can be done from my end, that it is some type of compression issue that Comcast needs to work out. Seems to me this should have been worked out while they tested the boxes for the last 2 months. Should I take hos word for this, or dig deeper with Comcast?

Brett

Brett,

My InHD (both channels) always have great pictures with no breakups so far. However, on one of the channels (I don't recall which one) I have had an ocassional audio dropout. Its very quick, and doesn't happen often or regularly. I'm in Southwest Denver.

I'd say that if it isn't fixed quickly, keep calling Comcast. In my experience they will do whatever it takes to fix a problem. Others may have had other experiences, but mine have all been good.

Tim

I called up comcast today, and the CSR checked the computers and said that they had service in Fort Collins. I did my dance of joy while she put me on hold to draw up the work order for the install. When she got back on the line she ripped out my heart and stomped on it a few times when she said her supervisor told her that it wasn't ready yet in Fort Collins! :mad: There was no eta on when they would have it. Anyone with more info?

Ed

Originally posted by Tweakophyte


Have you (or anyone) compared the way the locals look on big screen TVs on Comcast (with the 5100) versus Dish? I see compression artifacts on my 31" TV fairly easily with Dish. I'm going to get a 50" HDTV soon and there's a good chance I'll switch to Comcast. Has anyone switched?

Thanks,
PS Keep the stories coming!

I have not had a chance to compare I have never had a sattelite system, was real tempted to get it but the price of HD hardware is to expensive right now.

Hooray!

I just got the news from Comcast. HD service has been available in the Denver area since Monday, September 15th. It's free of charge until December or January and then will cost $5 more per month over digital cable. I can't wait to check it out.

Mike Riley :)

Anybody else watch the two HD college football games today? This was my first chance to watch football in HD. I watched some of the Eastern/Western Kentucy game on InHD, and part of the Miami/BC game on ESPN. I don't really care about any of the teams (though I used to hate Miami when I was at Florida back in the early 80's).

I thought the PQ on InHD was pretty incredible until I saw the ESPN HD picture. Wow! I think ESPN blew away InHD. Maybe it was better lighting, or something, but it was definitely better. My TV is native 720p, so I wonder if that made a difference too?

Tim

Does anyone know if a QAM HD tuner can be used with Comcast HD?

I'd heard the $5 monthly charge was for the rental of the HD box... I'm curious if I could buy a Samnung HD tuner w QAM support and use it's DVI output.

Originally posted by mayest
I thought the PQ on InHD was pretty incredible until I saw the ESPN HD picture. Wow! I think ESPN blew away InHD. Maybe it was better lighting, or something, but it was definitely better.

I think there was a difference, but maybe not as much as you did. Maybe it was because the InHD game was in Kentucky ;). I think there were some pretty great pictures on some of the other InHD programming comparable to the quality on ESPNHD, so I don't know if it could have been the 720p vs. 1080i (I'm assuming that's what InHD is). My Samsung DLP is also 720p.

How do the analog cable channels look to you over the 5100? I think they're quite poor compared to a direct coax feed to the TV. I'm not sure if it's the better upconverter in the Samsung or what, but it's very noticeable.

You might be right. I watched a little more of the E/W Kentucky game on the replay. It wasn't as bright and I think it wasn't as clear. I agree that there have been some stunning pictures on InHD that rival the game on ESPN HD (especially the nature shows -- that penguin thing is very good).

At first, I thought the analog cable was as good on the 5100 as on my old box. However, I'm not so sure now but its not a dramatic difference. I still have the old box, but I feed it through a TiVo which I think hurts the PQ a little. Tonight the analog channels on the 5100 didn't look as good to me. Maybe that's because I've watched almost nothing but HD for the last couple of days. Anyway, I just watched "Coupling" from the BBC America channel on TiVo and I think it looked better than the analog/digital channels on the 5100. Its hard to tell because I seem to adjust to whatever I'm watching. SD looks bad at first, but better as the memory of HD fades a bit.

I'm just hoping that we can get the MNF game this week in HD. On ABC would be great, but if they run it over InHD (that's a rumor I picked up somewhere) that would be great too.

Tim

I also have a native 720p display (50" sony lcd). Tim and gakon,
are your STB's set to output at 720p or 1080i? From what I understand, 720p looks better for fast moving stuff like football games and ESPN HD is the only one that comcast currently broadcasts with this resolution. I'm concerned that if I change the box to 720p the Inhd and PBS nature stuff (broadcast in 1080i) will suffer.

I agree with gakon, the sdtv is a little worse than my old analog cable signal. I'm currently letting the 5100 do the converting, but I have the option to hook up the coax directly to my tv's aux in for non-scrambled channels.

I'm still very happy. I've had my hdtv for a year and now I can really see what it can do.

BTW, have you guys gotten any KUSA prime time hdtv in 6:9? Even Leno has been 4:3 all week.

Originally posted by nu2this
I also have a native 720p display (50" sony lcd). Tim and gakon,
are your STB's set to output at 720p or 1080i?

Mine is outputting 720p and the 4:3 override is set to off (the other 4:3 selections don't play well with the DLP). If an image being broadcast in 1080i is suffering, I certainly don't notice it, given the massive improvement in PQ for HD over analog cable. That said, I don't know if InHD is 1080i or 720p - I couldn't find any info on their web site. I know NBC is broadcasting in 1080i, and I don't think the picture is quite as good, but it may be the content (Law and Order has a lot of dark scenes). I also may need to do some tweaking on the DLP.

BTW, have you guys gotten any KUSA prime time hdtv in 6:9? Even Leno has been 4:3 all week.
I just got HDTV through Comcast yesterday, and L&O was in 16:9. It's the only HD on KUSA I've watched.

As far as the MNF game rumor on InHD, I really would like it to be true, but the InHD schedule shows other programming already planned for that time. Of course they could always change it, or KMGH and Comcast could agree on retransmission in time, but I'm not going to get too optimistic.

Finally, we bust on ABC a lot, but we're not getting KCNC/CBS via Comcast either. We could be seeing more football, plus CSI, plus other shows I don't watch. Anybody heard about when CBS might be available?

I agree with the InHD game(1080i) not looking as bright or clear as ESPNHD, but I have cbs OTA HD and their football games in 1080i look great! Better than ESPNHD which I think is lower on the HD quality scale. I also have seen ABC HD (720p) which is a better comparison VS ESPNHD and ABC is sharper in my opinion. My projector can handle all the HD formats so I did a comparison in the native formats of the channel, however I just leave it on 1080i because I don't feel like fussing with it and the difference is not that noticeable to me. Also I notice a difference when I set the 4:3 overide to 480i that way I can bypass the scaler in the Moto 5100 box, which isn't very good, and use the scaler in my projector which is, so the analogs look fine. CBS HD sports is awesome the prior post about getting on comcast about CBS as well as ABC is RIGHT ON!:D

From what I have read in other CBS theads on AVSForum, the Denver CBS station is Owned and Operated (O&O) by CBS. So the carrier rights issue is not just Denver, it is all the major O&O stations (except Chicago they have a grandfather clause). The good news is allot of people are putting pressure on CBS to make this happen, the bad news is there is allot of money involved, so it may take awhile.

In other news, there are some threads that are saying that Comcast is negotiating with Dicovery Channel, but I wouldn't be holding my breath for the channel to show up soon.

Benzyl

Originally posted by nu2this
I also have a native 720p display (50" sony lcd). Tim and gakon,
are your STB's set to output at 720p or 1080i? From what I understand, 720p looks better for fast moving stuff like football games and ESPN HD is the only one that comcast currently broadcasts with this resolution. I'm concerned that if I change the box to 720p the Inhd and PBS nature stuff (broadcast in 1080i) will suffer.

<snip>

BTW, have you guys gotten any KUSA prime time hdtv in 6:9? Even Leno has been 4:3 all week.

I have the box set to 720p, but my TV is native 720p. If your Sony is a native 1080i, then I think you are better with the 1080i output. I've currently got the 4:3 Override setting turned to Off, but I'm going to try the 480i setting and see if it gives better quality as zeff suggests. I have a weird little line on the right side of the KUSA 4:3 feed on the HD channel. Its not too obnoxious, but maybe that setting will get rid of it (the problem is only on KUSA).

I've seen a couple of 16:9 programs on KUSA. Leno looks spectacular, but they did forget to flip the 16:9 switch one night (I think it was Thursday). Fox's Widescreen enhanced is better than analog, but nothing to write home about.

Tim

Hello all,

How does Comcast's on screen guide compare with that of Directv--can you set custom channel lists/etc? Does the channel stay visible and audible while you access the guide?

Thanks,
N

FWIW a Comcast CSR said that channel 7 ABC is now available on cable. She didn't know if MNF would be on tonight but "assumed it would be".

Iwanthd,

I hope who ever you talked to on the phone is correct but my cable installer wrote down channel 652 for kmgh hd. As of 10:45 Monday morning, I can't get that channel. It skips right over it. Does anyone know if channel 652 is where kmgh will be?

Sunday night, the prime time shows that are supposed to be hi def on KUSA (from 8:00 - 10:00) were displayed in 4:3 on my set. They have light gray bars on the side. I assume these are coming from the 5100 because when my tv does the bars they are black. Did anyone else experience this? Maybe I have been missing it, but I have yet to see anything on KUSA in 6:9.

About the 1080i - 720p thing; After a lot of experimentation, I have set the box 5100 box to output 1080i. Even though my set is native 720p it is much better at converting the signals than the 5100. Currently, all the hd on Denver Comcast cable except ESPN hd is being transmitted in 1080i. By setting the 5100 to 1080i and let my tv do the converting, I let the better scaler do the majority of the work for most of the stations. I realize that I am then converting the ESPN 1080i signal to 720p on the 5100 and back again to 720p on my tv. As far as the ESPN pq, I don't notice a huge difference, but then again, it take so long to switch the 5100 back and forth it's hard to tell. Does this make sense or am I missing something here?

Originally posted by N123
Hello all,

How does Comcast's on screen guide compare with that of Directv--can you set custom channel lists/etc? Does the channel stay visible and audible while you access the guide?

Thanks,
N

I haven't seen a DirectTV on screen guide in several years, but I think the Comcast guide is pretty awful. The on screen guide from my TiVo is far superior. Also, TiVo recently added a new guide format from TV Guide. I like its looks better than the old-style TiVo guide, but it is way too slow so I switched back to the old guide.

Tim

Originally posted by nu2this
I hope who ever you talked to on the phone is correct but my cable installer wrote down channel 652 for kmgh hd. As of 10:45 Monday morning, I can't get that channel. It skips right over it. Does anyone know if channel 652 is where kmgh will be?
I won't be home until just before the game tonight, but I spoke to a CSR who said that they needed to send a signal to the box to allow it to receive new channels (sounded like they could do that remotely). They also said that ABC is still NOT part of the lineup. If someone else wants to call and see what story they get, it would be nice to know.

Sunday night, the prime time shows that are supposed to be hi def on KUSA (from 8:00 - 10:00) were displayed in 4:3 on my set.
The bars come from Channel 9. It seemed that they switched back and forth between 16:9 and 4:3 many times - I even think they switched to a different L&O:CI episode for a little while, because at one point it was different than what was on the analog KUSA feed. I think they must still be getting used to controlling HDTV (not that I know what's required to do this). But I did see quite a bit of L&O that WAS in 16:9.

About the 1080i - 720p thing; After a lot of experimentation, I have set the box 5100 box to output 1080i.
I will try this. I'm not sure I'll notice that much difference in HD. I'd still like the output of the 5100 to show regular cable with better PQ, but I'm not sure what could be causing that (I don't think switching to 1080i would affect the analog cable picture quality).

I hate to dash everyones hopes for an hd football game tonight, but I just got off the phone with a Comcast CSR. She knew nothing about adding KMGH to their line up and said her understanding was that they still havn't reached a re-transmission agreement. She checked the latest "comcast headline bulletin" for company news and it didn't mention it either.

I think it would be a good idea to get names of these CSR's when we call in. Then we could at least track down who said what, and where they got their info. (I'm guilty of it too. I forgot to get the names of the people I talked to.)

She said that when any new stations become available they immediately send the signal to everyone's 5100 that should get it.

Originally posted by gakon
I'd still like the output of the 5100 to show regular cable with better PQ, but I'm not sure what could be causing that (I don't think switching to 1080i would affect the analog cable picture quality).

Does your Samsung DLP have an "aux in" and a "converter out" jacks? This will bypass the 5100 for regular cable viewing. It is more of a pain to flip through the channels because you have to press "Ant" on your remote to access scrambled or hd channels but may be worth it if the pq is greatly improved for regular cable. Here is how the hook up works with the Sony LCD:

1) Connect the coax cable from the wall directly to the TV's VHF/UHF jack.

2) Using a coax cable, connect your TV's "to Converter" jack to the the cable box's IN jack.

3) Connect a coax cable from the cable box's out to the AUX input on your TV.

As I said, this is how it works with my TV. You may check your Samsung manual first to see if this is possible. The other option would be a splitter.

Good Luck!

Jeff

I just got off the phone too, for some reason the main number sent me to the sales department. Anyhow he said the press release about two Broncos games in HD were for games airing on Fox. Gave me the dates but I didn't pay attention, at that point I was pretty disappointed. This goes against the article in the Denver Business Journal which specifically names tonights game.

I don't have enough posts to post a link. But google HDTV Broncos and it's there.

"The HDTV games will be Oakland vs. Denver, on Sept. 22,and New England vs. Denver, on Nov. 3."

I just got off the phone with Amber 303-537-1064 to inquire about the Comcast HD package. She was very sweet, but only said about CBS and ABC that new local channels were being added all the time.

Currently, it works like this for the minimalist:

$13.44/mo for basic subscription
$ 9.95/mo for high definition package (includes equipment)
$ 5.00/mo added to bill in 2004, when free HD TV service expires.

How they call that "free" until 2004," I don't understand. Maybe someone else can figure it out.

http://comcastcolorado.com/ComcastColorado/high_def_tv.html

Doesn't seem like a great deal to me without CBS and ABC in HD.

nu2this

I have a sony GWII (which may or may not be the same set you have) and would like to hook it up the same way you have yours. If you use the tv's remote and tuner to watch standard digital cable how do you switch over and use the 5100's remote and tuner to watch HD channels? Also are you still able to use your guide and favorite channel options on your tv or are they disabled, when it is hooked up this way? Finally did you have to reset any menu settings (pro, vivid, color contrast ect........) when switching between HD channels and analog channels.

Originally posted by nu2this
Does your Samsung DLP have an "aux in" and a "converter out" jacks? This will bypass the 5100 for regular cable viewing.
Actually, I am using a splitter, with both the DLP and the 5100 getting the split inputs, and the 5100 feeding the DLP via component. Swapping the splitter connections doesn't make a difference. Since the DLP picture is so much better, I wonder if it's just the poor upconversion capability of the 5100. I was hoping to avoid the extra steps of switching between inputs on the DLP - not a real big deal for me, but for others in the house (that's my story and I'm sticking to it ;)).

Originally posted by BBYRNE
nu2this

I have a sony GWII (which may or may not be the same set you have) and would like to hook it up the same way you have yours. If you use the tv's remote and tuner to watch standard digital cable how do you switch over and use the 5100's remote and tuner to watch HD channels? Also are you still able to use your guide and favorite channel options on your tv or are they disabled, when it is hooked up this way? Finally did you have to reset any menu settings (pro, vivid, color contrast ect........) when switching between HD channels and analog channels.

Yes I have the GWII. But, I also have a situation like gakon's. Everyone in my house didn't like having to switch back an forth, so my hook-up stayed like this for about 15 minutes. Sorry if I gave the impression that I still used this set-up.

You press "ANT" on the TV's remote control to switch between the channels coming in through the cable box and those coming directly to the TV. It is on page 26 of your GWII manual. If I remember right, the guide works only when you are using the cable box input. But don't quote me on that. I didn't have much time to play with it. You need to have both remotes handy because you change sdtv with the TV remote. Scrambled and hd use the 5100 remote after pressing the "ANT" button.

The advantage (besides a better picture for sdtv) is you could use the twin view feature, channel index, and favorite channel features on you tv (for sdtv and non-scrambled)

I did the UMR does GWII tweaks and leave my settings on pro. If you aren't familiar with these tweaks do a search. I HIGHLY recommend it. It really improved my sdtv pq.

I hope this helps. Let me know if you try this set up and if it improved your sdtv pq. If so, I'll have to try to talk my family into it!

Anybody watch any of NBC's "Las Vegas" on HD? (the game got kind of boring - not that this show was any better, except for Nikki Cox) Maybe it's my DLP, but it sure seemed like there were a lot of jerky transitions, especially during fast motion on the screen. I haven't seen anything like this on any other HD program, and it wasn't evident on the analog cable feed. Of all of the Comcast HD channels, NBC's is by far the worst for me - too red (when all the others appear well balanced) and too much contrast. I thought I had read that all but ESPN are being broadcast in 1080i. Since these other channels look equally good to me (and NBC doesn't), I don't think it's my TV, which is 720p. Changing the 5100 from 720p to 1080i doesn't make a significant difference (letting the DLP do the scaling). Anyone else have similar issues with NBC? Interestingly, Las Vegas is not on NBC's list of HD programs, although it certainly didn't look like SD to me.

gakon,

You aren't alone on the lousy PQ of that show. See this thread:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=305054

I only watched the opening sequence, and it looked fine.

I generally get great colors on all of the HD channels and KUSA is no different. I have the same set as you (except, perhaps, for the size -- mine is the 507W), so I'm guessing that ours are set up a little differently. Have you done any of the SM tweaks? When I changed from gamma 4 to 0, it made a big improvement in my PQ. I haven't changed anything else.

I did set the 5100 to output 1080i yesterday. I'm not sure if I'm seeing any improvement or not. Maybe, but its hard to tell since I don't have anybody to change modes while I sit back and look for differences. I kinda think it is better, but I wouldn't put money on it.

Tim

I heard comcast downgrades all 720p signals to 1080i before they send it out to customers because 1080i works better on their system. Therefore, switching to 1080i output could be better for comcast subscribers because this is the native res. of the incoming signal. If you leave the STB to 720p, it is doing another translation and artifacts could occur.

Summary:

720p -> Comcast -> 1080i -> customer -> 720p -> TV
vs.
720p -> Comcast -> 1080i -> customer -> 1080i -> TV

One less translation if you leave box at 1080i.

Anyhow he said the press release about two Broncos games in HD were for games airing on Fox.

That is not possible because Fox does not do HD, they have 480i widescreen which may or may not be de-interlaced at the local station. Fox will be doing some prime time in 720p next fall but has not yet announced if they will be doing any 720p sports next fall.

Don

Originally posted by donyoop
That is not possible because Fox does not do HD, they have 480i widescreen which may or may not be de-interlaced at the local station. Fox will be doing some prime time in 720p next fall but has not yet announced if they will be doing any 720p sports next fall.

Don

Don,
Comcast considers the widescreen Fox an HD channel. I know it isn't, and you know it isn't, but comcast has 2 catagories Regular (SD) or HD... Fox's picture is terrible compared to real HD, and I hope as more people get HDTV it will force them to reconsider thier plans. Also I thought the widescreen Fox was Progressive scan, not that it makes much of a difference.

Benzyl

Did anyone else notice the delay between sound and picture Tuesday night on Fraiser on KUSA's hd? It was pretty annoying. I remember people mentioning it on the Denver hd OTA forum but for some reason I thought it couldn't happen on cable hd. It seemed to be better on Leno.

I saw this posted over on one of the other forums, and thought I would share it here. I'm not sure how much truth there is to this, but if it is true, it sounds interesting. I know I would jump at the chance to ditch my digital cable package if I could still recieve all my hi-def channels. Take a look....

------

Hmm, from some of the other boards it looked like they can't force you to get digital in order to get HD (so guys back east were getting HD with just the basic local package). Here is the quote:

From the March/April 2003 issue of The Perfect Vision, page 33:

"The FCC requires these local [HDTV] digital channels to be part of 'basic service,' the lowest-price tier of service offered by the cable company (and the only one that's regulated by law), though it doesn't mandate that signals be sent out unencrypted. So if all you want is to see is every local [HDTV] digital broadcast channel offered by your cable company today, you can receive them at the cost of 'basic service' and an HD-box rental..."

"What the cable companies' sales people don't always tell you is that you don't need to order the expensive 'digital packages' to get premium HD channels. A law called the 1992 Cable Act has a provision in it that took effect last October. Called the 'buy through' provision, it basically says that if you have "basic service" you cannot be required to get a higher tier of service...to receive a premium HD channel such as HBO-HD."

"If the customer service person says you must get a digital tier of service to get HDTV, insist on speaking to a supervisor."

nu2this

Thanks for the info. I have my TV set up where I switch between HD channels on the 5100 and standard channels with the TV. I could not believe how poor standard cable looked through the 5100. Having it hooked through the TV has greatly improved the PQ. I do have one last question for you. Is there a special audio output setting on the 5100. I can not get a digital single sent to my receiver. I have an optical cable connecting the 5100 to my DD receiver and the receiver defaults to Dolby pro logic. I have switched through all the high def channels and I can not get it to output DD. Is it because only certain programs during certain times of the day only play in DD. I though that INHD1 and 2 where always broadcasted in DD.

Originally posted by BBYRNE
nu2this

I have an optical cable connecting the 5100 to my DD receiver and the receiver defaults to Dolby pro logic. I have switched through all the high def channels and I can not get it to output DD. Is it because only certain programs during certain times of the day only play in DD. I though that INHD1 and 2 where always broadcasted in DD.

From what I can tell, most of the audio is sent via the 5100's digital links in DD 2.0. That signal causes my A/V processor to switch on DPL decoding. I have received DD 5.1 from the HBO-HD channel, so it does work. The non-HD channels come through as standard PCM, which can also be decoded by DPL.

MiD

Originally posted by mjmbond
From what I can tell, most of the audio is sent via the 5100's digital links in DD 2.0. That signal causes my A/V processor to switch on DPL decoding. I have received DD 5.1 from the HBO-HD channel, so it does work. The non-HD channels come through as standard PCM, which can also be decoded by DPL.

MiD

That's been my experience as well. There is very little 5.1 audio being transmitted. I've had it ocassionally on HBO-HD and the InHD channels. Mostly, though, its just DD 2.0. Since I do get 5.1 sometimes, I assume that Comcast is just passing through the sound that they receive.

I think even Leno could benefit from 5.1. It would be cool to have the audience laughter coming from the back channels so that it would sound like I've got a front row seat in the audience.

Tim

Originally posted by David_Levin
Called today for service. Well don't bother if you're not yet upgraded for Cable Internet service (County Line & University).

Does Comcast Denver really have 80% of thier customers upgraded?


I live near University and Dry Creek. I talked to an installer today and he said they finished the upgrade and were up and running!!! I was a bit skeptical so I called a CSR and she said that the service had been activated in the area and they were in their final testing period. She said that the hdtv and high speed internet should be available in a few days after they made sure everything was working properly. If you are in the same upgrade grid as I am you may have service very soon!!! Do yourself a favor and call a CSR and ask about HDTV!!

Originally posted by BBYRNE
nu2this

Thanks for the info. I have my TV set up where I switch between HD channels on the 5100 and standard channels with the TV. I could not believe how poor standard cable looked through the 5100. Having it hooked through the TV has greatly improved the PQ.

BBYRNE, I'm glad this hook up helped. I'm going to try to talk my family into giving it another try. Since you are currently using this set up, maybe you could answer some of your original questions for me. First of all, how much of a pain is it to juggle two remotes when you switch back and forth? If you accidentally change channels on the TV while watching hdtv, do you have to cycle through the TV/video input again or will pressing ANT, at that point, get you a sdtv station? Do you see any other drawbacks to this hook-up?

Have you gotten any DD 5.1 yet? I saw parts of Harry Potter on HBO in 5.1 the first day I got comcast and it was great. Since then, I havn't seen (heard) anything. I've been hooked on those nature shows on INHD. I even watched the thing about TEXAS!!!!!!! Oh well, the broadcast was so life-like, I'll never have to go there.

I just went to the Colorado Comast site and I noticed that ABC has been added to list of channels available to Colorado customers. I am at work right now, can someone check to see if we actually have the channel.


comcastcolorado.com/ComcastColorado/channels.html

Just FYI I was at this site yesterday and it didn't have ABC.

Thanks,
Enrique

I see ABC added too. I don't have Comcast yet. I have DirecTV. Can anyone tell me if you get INHD with your HD basic subscription?

Tom - InHD and InHD2 are part of the HD subscription.

yamahar6red - I see ABC on that list, but not on the list you can get to from the main page (http://www.comcastcolorado.com/ComcastColorado/channels.html#local). I did see it mentioned on the first page, but that's a typo (they say KUSA is ABC, but it's NBC). I spoke with a CSR who had no new information about ABC (or CBS, for that matter - I'm still going to bug them about that).

It's on the page you linked. Scroll to the bottom, or refresh your browser if the page is cached.

Originally posted by gakon
InHD and InHD2 are part of the HD subscription.



But just to be clear, are those channels included if all you sub to is the Basic package for 13.44 and the HD STB rental at 9.95? We know the Local channels in HD are available that way.

I thought maybe to get the InHD channels you might have to sub to a full blown Digital package that starts in the forty something dollar range? Not so?

One last question, and many thanks in advance....

What are the approximate dimensions of the Motorola 5100 set top box?

Tom

Ditto DP1's question...

(I know what he'z thinkin'....keepin' his dish! And MNF.)

Well I already get MNF in HD and I'll be keeping my satellite HD systems no matter what, but yeah, I'd like to take a gander at those InHD channels because thats about the only HD content out there that I dont otherwise have access to.

The thing is though, Comcast doesnt have my area ready quite yet anywayz so for the moment it doesnt really matter.

If you're thinking of getting Comcast just to get InHD, I would go to www.inhd.com and look at their programming schedule. If you find something you can't live without, then it might be worth it. If you think so, I might suggest spending more time outdoors. ;)
I got Comcast because I don't have a dish, and I didn't spring for an OTA box because all of the OTA channels that I care about should be on cable in a few years or less (and I can wait that long for WB to be in HD).

The 5100 is 17"W x 14"D x 2 5/8"H.

I already had the expanded cable (not digital) when I got HD from Comcast, so I can't answer your question about the cost. However, based on Comcast's web site, I'd say that you can get ALL of these channels with the basic analog cable. You can always call and find out (although you may get a CSR who thinks you need full digital to get any HD channels). I'm glad someone provided this information because, given the poor quality of the SD channels, I'm not sure digital cable does anything for me, and I'd rather have the 9.95/month.

Tom - thanks - my page was cached.

The kicker is, I could get all the HD locals OTA free except ABC...Grrr!

I haven't looked at your other posts, but how hard have you tried to get ABC? I live well south of downtown (south end of HR, not really on a hill), and I WAS able to pick up ABC OTA (I borrowed a receiver for a few days just to see what I could get). It took a little effort (not too much), but that was with a set of rabbit ears sitting right on top of the TV. I was surprised because when I first set it up, I got nothing on ABC, but when MNF rolled around I got a little more motivated, and spent some time moving the antenna. Signal strength was weak, but enough to get a lock.

In unicorporated Arapahoe County at Himilaya and Chenango (east of Quincy Reservoir), with rabbit ears I was able to get Fox. None of the others. I won't deny I haven't tried as hard as I could. I can see downtown (barely) from a window upstairs. I just might if I get a good attic antenna, which would not be a total loss even if it didn't work now, once the new tower is up on Lookout Mtn.

I may play around with the rabbit ears some more. The HDTV is downstairs, so I have to run some cable upstairs (or use the cable that's already in the walls), where I have the line of sight, to see if that helps get any of the others besides Fox. Thanks for the encouragement. Still pining over not seeing the MNF win in HD. :(

Well, no ABC, despite the web site info. Neither CSR I spoke with had ABC on their "official" channel lineup cards. Not that there was anything to watch on ABC tonight....

Eeew....

I just ordered Comcast and will provide the lowest price package I have been given by the few CSR's I've spoken with. The lowest package available for Digital HD is called "Comcast Digital Classic" which is $45.99. This is good until the end of the year and then goes up $5.00 to $50.99.

The channels currently available in this package include:
1. NBC
2. Fox
3. PBS
4. In-Demand (1)
5. In-Demand (2)
6. ESPN

Showtime and HBO are also available in Digital/HD as a la carte or in higher end, more expensive packages. Comcast does not include any Digital/HD in the very lower end packages (ie. Comcast Basic ($13.44) or Comcast Standard ($36.04).

This is the info I ordered off of and believe it to be accurate. Let me know differently if I'm missing something. I hope this helps as the information posted in these forums have been extremely helpful to me.

Your information may be correct, maybe not. Obviously, the website is wrong about ABC being in the lineup. Ironic though that as Gakon pointed out, it was just added today. But the fine print on the subscription level required I copied below from the website.

http://comcastcolorado.com/ComcastColorado/channels.html

*HDTV may not be available in all areas. To receive HD features and benefits, a HD television (not provided), converter, remote control and other equipment is required. After the “free” promotional period ends, monthly equipment charges, in addition to applicable service charges, may apply. Advertised channels/stations generally provide a mix of HD and non-HD programming. HD programming is limited to the programming provided to Comcast in HDTV format by the programming provider. HDTV programming and programming charges subject to change. Basic service subscription is required to receive HDTV. Installation, equipment and other charges may apply. Taxes, franchise fees and FCC fees apply. Please call your local Comcast Cable office for restrictions and complete details about service, prices and equipment. Pricing and programming may change. Service is subject to terms and conditions of Comcast Cable Subscriber Agreement. ©2003 Comcast Cable Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Correction:

HD and Digital can be added to the Comcast Basic Package of $13.44 as indicated in Tom Roper's earlier Post. If you want to go this route, you need to ask the CSR for this package or they will start you out at the Comcast Digital Basic Rate that I subscribed to. The $13.44 Package does include all local progamming and In-Demand 1 and 2. In-Demand is integrated into the Digital Box they provide.

The CSR I spoke with said Channel 7 is now available with very limited programming in HD. He checked with his Supervisor and that seems to be the consensus. The Discovery Channel is also coming soon.

I wanted ESPN for additional sports so I'm sticking with package I bought knowing that more HD is coming and most likely coming soon.

[QUOTE]Originally posted by QBeck
[B]I just ordered Comcast and will provide the lowest price package I have been given by the few CSR's I've spoken with. The lowest package available for Digital HD is called "Comcast Digital Classic" which is $45.99. This is good until the end of the year and then goes up $5.00 to $50.99.


my local mits rep just emailed me and said he hooked up his integrated mits to basic cable and gets fox, nbc, abc, pbs digital/hd free.

Originally posted by vikesbroncs
my local mits rep just emailed me and said he hooked up his integrated mits to basic cable and gets fox, nbc, abc, pbs digital/hd free.

That has me wondering...

If I hook up a terrestrial antenna, the same antenna receives both analog (NTSC) and digital (ATSC) signals. When the coax from the terrestrial antenna is thus connected to my Sony HD200 set top box, I can play analog and digital programming on the TV.

The Mits should work the same way, the difference being the ATSC decoder is internal to the TV, instead of inside a separate set top box like mine.

Basic cable might work the same way. ATSC + NTSC on the same cable just as if coming from a terrestrial antenna? If so, the Motorola 5100 set top box might not be necessary if you already owned an ATSC tuner? Just run the cable into the set top box? Could it be, the Motorola 5100 serves (2) functions, an ATSC tuner for people who don't already have a set top box? And for decoding encrypted broadcasts, PPV, premium channels?

I wonder.

I wonder if you need to call Comcast and have them reset your box to get ABC?

When I look at that line-up of shows the only truly compelling show for me is CSI, which is missing. :( When they get CBS I WILL get an HDTV and switch from Dish to Cable... Now if I can just find my 2001 and 2002 bonus plus that tax refund we had earmarked for the TV before my wife put the money in the baby account...

(I'll take cable until the HD-PVR technology matures enough to make it worth the investment.)

Originally posted by Tom Roper
That has me wondering...

If I hook up a terrestrial antenna, the same antenna receives both analog (NTSC) and digital (ATSC) signals. When the coax from the terrestrial antenna is thus connected to my Sony HD200 set top box, I can play analog and digital programming on the TV.

The Mits should work the same way, the difference being the ATSC decoder is internal to the TV, instead of inside a separate set top box like mine.

Basic cable might work the same way. ATSC + NTSC on the same cable just as if coming from a terrestrial antenna? If so, the Motorola 5100 set top box might not be necessary if you already owned an ATSC tuner? Just run the cable into the set top box? Could it be, the Motorola 5100 serves (2) functions, an ATSC tuner for people who don't already have a set top box? And for decoding encrypted broadcasts, PPV, premium channels?

I wonder. That is interesting but note that the new Mits integrated sets also have QAM HD decoding ability. I do not know what modulation Comcast is using but QAM is typically used in all cable systems. I suspect Comcast is using QAM modulation for their HD signals and IF that is the case then the basic ATSC tuner (which demodulates 8VSB, and NOT QAM) will NOT be able to decode the HD signals (I don't think the DirecTv or Dish receivers can deal with QAM).

What I am saying is that it seems likely one would have to rent or buy a QAM capable HD receiver (unless you already have a STB or integrated TV with that capability) in order to watch HD programming on Comcast.

I may be wrong - to end this speculation we need to know if Comcast sends HD as QAM or ATSC.....

Thanks Geof. The specs for my set top box say 8-VSB and no QAM, so you are probably right about needing the Comcast tuner.

Originally posted by Tom Roper
Thanks Geof. The specs for my set top box say 8-VSB and no QAM, so you are probably right about needing the Comcast tuner. I have learned that the Comcast supplied Motorola DCT5100 only supports QAM so an ATSC 8VSB STB won't work with Comcast. But, according to Ken H's Official AVS HDTV Forum STB Synopsis - Summer 2003! (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=179095)thread it looks like there will be several alternatives to the DCT5100 "shortly".

It may still be worthwhile to buy a QAM capable STB rather than rent it from Comcast but I wonder if that will stop working when they end their "free" period.

Originally posted by Geof
That is interesting but note that the new Mits integrated sets also have QAM HD decoding ability. I do not know what modulation Comcast is using but QAM is typically used in all cable systems. I suspect Comcast is using QAM modulation for their HD signals and IF that is the case then the basic ATSC tuner (which demodulates 8VSB, and NOT QAM) will NOT be able to decode the HD signals (I don't think the DirecTv or Dish receivers can deal with QAM).

What I am saying is that it seems likely one would have to rent or buy a QAM capable HD receiver (unless you already have a STB or integrated TV with that capability) in order to watch HD programming on Comcast.

I may be wrong - to end this speculation we need to know if Comcast sends HD as QAM or ATSC.....

Comcast is using QAM. FWIW, Zenith is coming out with a STB with QAM & ATSC demodulators, WITH a hard drive HD recorder. Such a STB should be able to pick up Comcast's QAM signal without a subscription to any of their "Digital" packages. However, one would not have access to any premium or PPV programing.

MiD

This is just speculation on my part but I have a suspicion that when the Comcast "free" period ends you will need to use the Comcast box - or at least a box they can "enable" for HDTV. The Zenith sounds interesting though....

To follow up... The following is from a 1/13/03 Zenith press release:

"The HD-PVR330 HDTV Receiver/Personal Video Recorder, with the new TV Guide® on-screen interactive program guide, is a versatile next-generation HDTV PVR designed to provide an enhanced viewing/recording experience. It is equipped with a high-gain ATSC tuner for HDTV terrestrial reception and a QAM (Quadrature Amplitude Modulation) tuner for unscrambled HDTV cable reception, as well as an NTSC tuner for standard-definition (SD) analog reception. A generous 80 GB hard disk drive allows viewers to record and play back more than eight hours of HDTV programming while taking full advantage of the advanced, intuitive on-screen navigation system and program listings service from TV Guide. The service instantly delivers seven days of listings of all shows, with a new service that "tags" favorite shows for easier surfing--plus news, sports, and weather information--all at the push of a button. Additional features include Dolby Digital recording, a video browser using thumbnail images, live pause, drag and play, smart skip, 300x fast-forward, and a jack package with DVI+HDCP (Digital Visual Interface with High-bandwidth Digital Content Protection), RGB, component, S-video, and A/V outputs. The HD-PVR330 is expected to be available in the third quarter at a suggested price to be announced."

According to Ken's thread the HD-PVR330 is now known as the LG LST-3410A (and will list at $999). According to this thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=306231) the LG LST-3410A will not be avaliable until December.

Originally posted by Geof
This is just speculation on my part but I have a suspicion that when the Comcast "free" period ends you will need to use the Comcast box - or at least a box they can "enable" for HDTV. The Zenith sounds interesting though....

If I'm not mistaken, Federal legislation will require that cable providers transmit local HDTV programing unscrambled by the end of 2006. HDTVs hitting the market now with internal QAM decoders can now (and should in the future) display these signals without Comcast's "box." The situation today is really the same, you can hook cable up to a cable ready SDTV and watch non-premium/PPV programing.

MiD

Originally posted by mjmbond
If I'm not mistaken, Federal legislation will require that cable providers transmit local HDTV programing unscrambled by the end of 2006. HDTVs hitting the market now with internal QAM decoders can now (and should in the future) display these signals without Comcast's "box." The situation today is really the same, you can hook cable up to a cable ready SDTV and watch non-premium/PPV programing.

MiD Yes, that sounds right too. I wonder why Comcast is saying this is free now but won't be later. Maybe the locals will always remain free and they'll start charging for the other HD channels.

I guess if I had a real urge to watch the two local HD channels that really disgust me (KMGH and KUSA)(and assuming Comcast will carry KMGH) then I'd be inclinded to get a ATSC/QAM receiver. As it is I get KCNC-DT just fine on my DirecTV/ATSC receiver.

The one thing I do want to check into is if I get Basic Cable will my Cable Modem bill be reduced by $10/mo. If that were true then Basic Cable would really only cost me an additional $3+ dollars/mo -- I can deal with that.....:)

Originally posted by Geof
Yes, that sounds right too. I wonder why Comcast is saying this is free now but won't be later. Maybe the locals will always remain free and they'll start charging for the other HD channels.

I guess if I had a real urge to watch the two local HD channels that really disgust me (KMGH and KUSA)(and assuming Comcast will carry KMGH) then I'd be inclinded to get a ATSC/QAM receiver. As it is I get KCNC-DT just fine on my DirecTV/ATSC receiver.

The one thing I do want to check into is if I get Basic Cable will my Cable Modem bill be reduced by $10/mo. If that were true then Basic Cable would really only cost me an additional $3+ dollars/mo -- I can deal with that.....:)

I think Comcast will tell you that the fee in 2004 will be a converter box rental fee. It may be that channels such as ESPNHD, INHD, INHD2 & the soon to be added Discovery HD will not be available without the Comcast box... just the locals. IMO, $5 isn't too much to pay for full access to expanded programing as well as PPV & special events. The Zenith (LG) STB interests me only for it's ability to time shift HD cable programs.

I know what you mean about the bill... It would be nice if Comcast had some decent package deals that included ISP & HD services.

MiD

I'm trying not to go insane with TV (but not succeeding very well). I already have DirecTV and get their HD package (HDNet, HDNet Movies, Discovery HD, ESPN HD) along with SHO HD and HBO HD. I can get KCNC-DT OTA along with KRMA-DT (iffy) and KDVR-DT (which blows). For the most part I'm satisfied with DirecTv. If I could get all that and all the locals from Comcast without feeling like a whore in heat I would be tempted to switch. But so far Comcast hasn't made a compelling case.....
It may be that channels such as ESPNHD, INHD, INHD2 & the soon to be added Discovery HD will not be available without the Comcast boxYou worded this better but that is what I was trying to say when I wrote "Maybe the locals will always remain free and they'll start charging for the other HD channels. "

Originally posted by Geof
I'm trying not to go insane with TV (but not succeeding very well). I already have DirecTV and get their HD package (HDNet, HDNet Movies, Discovery HD, ESPN HD) along with SHO HD and HBO HD. I can get KCNC-DT OTA along with KRMA-DT (iffy) and KDVR-DT (which blows). For the most part I'm satisfied with DirecTv. If I could get all that and all the locals from Comcast without feeling like a whore in heat I would be tempted to switch. But so far Comcast hasn't made a compelling case.....
You worded this better but that is what I was trying to say when I wrote "Maybe the locals will always remain free and they'll start charging for the other HD channels. "

My EXACT situation and feelings, ditto. All I really care about is MNF on ABC.

$13.44 basic
$ 9.95 converter box rental
$ 5.00 to be added in 2004
_______
$ 28.39 is just not very compelling, or put another way, will I pay that much for MNF? Only 12 weeks left :(

Maybe I should just find a sports bar instead.

OK, but,despite the website information, does anyone with Comcast actually get ABC/KMGH? I spoke with a CSR today who said that they were supposed to start transmitting ABC this week, but that it hadn't quite happened yet. He made it sound like an agreement had been reached and that it was a technical issue of some sort, not a legal one.

Originally posted by Tom Roper
All I really care about is MNF on ABC.

$13.44 basic
$ 9.95 converter box rental
$ 5.00 to be added in 2004
_______
$ 28.39 is just not very compelling, or put another way, will I pay that much for MNF? Only 12 weeks left :(

Maybe I should just find a sports bar instead. [/B]

Tom,
You can get the basic cable package ($13.44), and rent their cable box for $5/ month and get Fox 480p, NBC, ABC, PBS. The $9.95 is for the premium HD channels INHD1and2, ESPNHD etc. which you don't have to get. So it's a bit less than you were thinking. the sports bar is still a good idea though

Happ

Originally posted by gakon
OK, but,despite the website information, does anyone with Comcast actually get ABC/KMGH? I spoke with a CSR today who said that they were supposed to start transmitting ABC this week, but that it hadn't quite happened yet. He made it sound like an agreement had been reached and that it was a technical issue of some sort, not a legal one. I hope they're not relying on picking up the signal OTA with that puny toy transmitter KMGH is using.;)

Originally posted by happ14
Tom,
You can get the basic cable package ($13.44), and rent their cable box for $5/ month and get Fox 480p, NBC, ABC, PBS. The $9.95 is for the premium HD channels INHD1and2, ESPNHD etc. which you don't have to get. So it's a bit less than you were thinking. the sports bar is still a good idea though

Happ Happ, you posted the $13.44 and $5 figures in the tower thread - are you not paying $9.95 and therefore not getting IND1 and 2, ESPN HD etc.??

If that is the case then perhaps your bill won't increase after the "free" period....

Well I just called Comcast and asked about the Basic service for $13.44 along with an HDTV Box. The CSR I spoke with was very informed and told me this was okay to do - and it would cost $18.44/mo (the box rents for $5/mo). This would also lower my Cable modem bill by $10/mo. so the net increase on my bill would be $8.44/mo. She mentioned there are only 3 HD channels available with this package.....Fox, NBC, and PBS. According to her ABC is NOT available and will not be available for some time. She said the web page is incorrect. She also said ABC was the one station everyone wants but she could give me no time frame as to when it will be offered.

Now, this was what she said....although she was very well informed and knowledgeable it is certainly possible that ABC is going to happen sooner rather than later. I declined to get the package as I could care less about KUSA. MNF might have made me go for it but right now that isn't available. Personally I will re-evaluate the situation when they offer more local channels.

Thanks Happ, for the info.

Geof, I would think Comcast would be mining for gold by delivering ABC (KMGH 7) in HD. Perplexing to me.

Originally posted by Tom Roper
Thanks Happ, for the info.

Geof, I would think Comcast would be mining for gold by delivering ABC (KMGH 7) in HD. Perplexing to me. Ditto.
Then again it may be KMGH that isn't cooperating. The management at that station is sadly lacking.

Originally posted by Geof
Ditto.
Then again it may be KMGH that isn't cooperating.
No, that couldn't be it, could it? :rolleyes:

I suspect the needed converter for KMGH to supply a signal to Comcast would probably cost $300,000 and just not be worth it since everyone will be able to get their signal in a couple weeks from the new tower.

(for those of you not playing along in the other thread, please take the previous paragraph with heavy doses of sarcasm)

Originally posted by Geof
She also said ABC was the one station everyone wants but she could give me no time frame as to when it will be offered.


CSI ain't on ABC... I want CBS! (Tennis is there, too! <-- get my wife into the game)

When I had comcast installed, I pumped the install tech for information on CBS and ABC coming onto the system and he said (reluctantly and off the record because he had been warned not to discuss it) that CBS was still a national issue that hadn't been resolved but ABC was a local negotiation and that Comcast had bent over backward giving KMGH a digital feed where noone else had one among other concessions, and had been promised an immediate connection when Comcast was ready. Comcast tried to get the feed when this rollout started and KMGH refused. He had a few other choice words about KMGH that I can't print here...

:mad:
Happ

May be. But Comcast should not be advertising Hi-Def KMGH-ABC on their website if they cannot deliver the product.

Tom - that's true, but maybe we should start bugging KMGH more. When I called them last week just before getting Comcast, the woman I spoke with said "Comcast can get the signal right now". I didn't pursue it to see what she really meant, but I may call again on Monday.

He had a few other choice words about KMGH that I can't print here...

Rest assured he is not alone.

Don

Originally posted by donyoop
Rest assured he is not alone.

Don Not by a long shot.

The KMGH logo and ABC lineup are no longer on the Comcast web site. Hmmm...

Originally posted by gakon
The KMGH logo and ABC lineup are no longer on the Comcast web site. Hmmm...

Comcast is going in the wrong direction -- they should be adding programming. This moonwalking ABC from the web site is like a broken promise.

In caital hill, I've been pleased with the signal, but disappointed in the content. The INHD movies are forgettable C movies whch can't be redeemed by better display. ESPN HD will broadcast a total of 7 sporting events in October -- all FB -- a tiny percentage of their programming. Why not MLB playoffs in HD? Fox 31 in the HD lineup is a near fraud, saved by the asterisk on the HD channels card explaining that it's "extended definition digital widescreen" -- that's not HD. And KRMA HD isn't Ch. 6 KRMA but mostly HD Demo stuff coming from the national PBS HD feed.

So we don't get ABC, CBS, WB, Discovery HD, or Mark Cuban's HDNet which was the subject of Den Post article this morning. And despite CSR assurances at sign-up and on a second call, HD subscribers won't get HBO or ST w/o paying the added subscription price for these prem. channels. Yes, HD is free until 2004, but almost not worth this price.

Seeing FB on HD makes it painful to watch SDTV. Any suggestions how we can motivate Comcast to provide relief, in the form of worthwhile HD programming?

Originally posted by JKM
Any suggestions how we can motivate Comcast to provide relief, in the form of worthwhile HD programming?

Your entire post was a pretty well stated argument, but you missed the part about the random switching between SD and HD on KUSA/NBC. Unfortunately, some of the content isn't totally under Comcast's control (ABC and CBS). However, some of us were under the impression that a lot more content was available, or would be available soon (other people were smarter and did some homework or waited to find out). The question is, how many people on this forum actually have signed up for HDTV from Comcast in Denver? Even if it's a small number (which I suspect), phone calls to Comcast aren't going to hurt. We should make the points you did in your email, and push for concessions. I'm afraid that any CSR you talk to will only suggest that you cancel your service, but there's still the argument that you lost time and money just for the installation and first month of service. And that you could get a whole lot more HD content via ABC and CBS using a set-top box. You'd miss ESPN and InHD, but (you put it better), what's to miss?
I'll let you know what they say (probably call tomorrow).

CSR tells me that I have everything already installed (digital cable, area availability) to simply take delivery of the DCT-5100 and go. So I ask if I can simply drop by the local Comcast payment center and pick-up the box. CSR's supervisor says they'd rather not do that in the spirit of insuring quality product, it's a new product, etc... which I completely understand.

But like many here, I'm familiar enough with the issues involved (at least outside my end of the cable) to give it a try. So has anyone had any luck convincing Comcast to let you pick up your box and do your on install? It's mainly an issue of time and convenience. (and I promise not to rant if there is a problem :)

regards,
-j

So has anyone had any luck convincing Comcast to let you pick up your box and do your on install?

I'd advise against it. I suspect you'll be charged the $15 either way, and I found installers equipped and eager to look for other service upgrades needed for the 2-way feed and higher bandwidth you'll need.

For my older 3-story home they called out a supervisor and together they replaced distribution "splitters" and replaced and relocated an amplifier, and otherwise worked to maximize the signal to my 5100 box. They will check signal strength and they can do things in the alley (or wherever your drop is) to solve problems you might not even identify. This was worth the time to schedule.

As a cable subscriber since Mile HIgh/TCI/AT&T began in Denver (in approx. 1985) I was most impressed with the improved competence and attitude of these Comcast installers. For this min. charge I got six man hours of trouble shooting service, upgraded cables and amplifiers, and resulting great signal.

btw, the installers assured me that they had been trained on HD and they were told -- contrary to two CSRs' promises to me --that HBO and ST won't be available to HD subscribers who aren't paying the premium charge for digital versions of these prem. channels. And they have been told that ABC is "right around the corner" in joining Comcast lineup.

Originally posted by JKM
And they have been told that ABC is "right around the corner" in joining Comcast lineup.

Well, I hope that's true. However, I was told the same thing in July about HD service. In that case, "right around the corner" turned out to be about two months. Anyway, I have a feeling that this is more of a KMGH problem than a Comcast problem. Heck, Comcast gave them that channel 207 space for an all news channel awhile back. I thought that was supposed to solve the carriage problem. Wasn't KMGH threatening to pull their content off of Comcast completely at the time? That's my recollection, but I could be wrong. Regardless, KMGH doesn't seem to be very serious about HD.

Tim

Perhaps the shake up at KMGH (the GM, Cindy Velasquez was fired) will bring forth some much needed sanity at KMGH and they'll work to get cable carriage soon. Based on their actions to date I'd have to agree that KMGH hasn't really cared about HD. Hopefully that will change (and quickly).

I emailed the General Manager at kmgh and asked when and if kmgh would be available from comcast. I encourage everyone here to do the same. I know that C. V. didn't care about hd and happy customers, but maybe the new management will.

Originally posted by nu2this
I emailed the General Manager at kmgh and asked when and if kmgh would be available from comcast. I encourage everyone here to do the same. I know that C. V. didn't care about hd and happy customers, but maybe the new management will.

email address please?

From the HDNet web site:

The National Hockey League and HDNet have released the first half of a live NHL on HDNet 2003-04 schedule of broadcasts, highlighted by NHL action every Tuesday and Friday night. The 65-game schedule of NHL on HDNet coverage begins Friday, Oct. 10 at 9 p.m. ET with the Colorado Avalanche hosting the Chicago Blackhawks.

Comcast customers -- see what we're missing!

Originally posted by Geof
Perhaps the shake up at KMGH (the GM, Cindy Velasquez was fired) will bring forth some much needed sanity at KMGH and they'll work to get cable carriage soon. Based on their actions to date I'd have to agree that KMGH hasn't really cared about HD. Hopefully that will change (and quickly).

Well, I missed that story (but it can be found on the RMN Web site). Interesting. I don't know if she was personally at fault, and an HD offering on Comcast probably won't have much impact on their ratings immediately, but this can't hurt. She must have been involved in that news channel incident. I thought that was incredibly stupid on their part. If they pulled the analog channel 7 off of Comcast, then their ratings would have really suffered. They can't live of of OTA users alone. They certainly haven't been helping the OTA folks receive their HD offerings.

Tim

JKM,
It actually through their web site on this page:
http://www.thedenverchannel.com/denvers7/222549/detail.html . You can choose who at kmgh you want your message to go to. I know these things get read. The last time I did it, I got an email back from them and it wasn't an auto response because they answered a specific question.

Originally posted by JKM
From the HDNet web site:



Comcast customers -- see what we're missing!

You know it! And if SpeedVision (SpeedChannel) had actually been "right around the corner" as TCI told me umpteen dozen times, I would not have switched to DirecTV. I would have remained with them, just as I will now remain with DirecTV until such time as I can find more value for the buck. Comast has a ways to go yet.

I wrote emails to both stations asking them when they thought their signals would be available on Comcast.

Thank you for your interest in Denver's 7, KMGH - TV/DT. KMGH HDTV broadcasts will be available to Comcast as soon as the corporate discussions regarding retransmission consent are concluded, which we hope will be soon!

Thank you

Rick Craddock
Director of Engineering
Denver's 7, KMGH - TV/DT

CBS (KCNC-TV) and COMCAST have been in negotiations in New York for the past several months for carriage of our HD signal on their local systems. We are hopeful this process can soon be wrapped up but as of this moment there is not an agreement in place that allows COMCAST to rebroadcast our HD signals on their cable.
We are broadcasting HDTV on our "over the air" Channel 35 from downtown Denver. Our plan is that by the end of next year, we will be broadcasting full power HDTV from our new site on Lookout Mountain.

David Layne
KCNC-TV
Director - Broadcast Operations & Engineering

Very pleasant, but also very non-committal. For what it's worth.

Just some perspective on the responses:

David Layne is a great guy. When KCNC started their OTA HDTV transmissions, there were some technical problems and he was always very receptive to getting them fixed. I'm sure if it was up to him (or anyone at KCNC) they'd be on Comcast already. Since KCNC is a CBS O&O (owned & operated) station, it could be a while. Corporate CBS and corporate Comcast have been locked in negotiations forever. You won't see any O&O CBS stations on Comcast anywhere in the country. The good news is that you should be able to get KCNC-DT with a decent UHF antenna from pretty much anywhere in the metro area.

You'll notice Rick Craddock didn't even mention their puny little OTA signal. (Sorry Rick, you know I had to get that in :)) If you live within a couple of blocks of the KMGH station, you could probably get their signal on channel 17.

Originally posted by dr_mal
.
.
.
You'll notice Rick Craddock didn't even mention their puny little OTA signal. (Sorry Rick, you know I had to get that in :)) If you live within a couple of blocks of the KMGH station, you could probably get their signal on channel 17. You're being too kind. This guy probably has estimated it will cost $400K to get their signal on Comcast. They should have asked Mr Craddock to leave with Cindy.

You guys are being awful hard on the folks from KMGH, try to cut them some slack, you don't see me making disparaging comments all of the time in this thread (I usually post them in the tower thread). You know it must be awful hard for the folks at KMGH to work for a second rate station, especially when you are in the same market with the world leader (or is that in the universe, I get them mixed up) in HDTV over at KUSA!
:rolleyes:

I sent the following email off to Comcast from their "Contact Comcast" page. I called and vented to a CSR also. Who knows, it couldn't hurt.

I recently subscribed to Comcast's High Definition package in Denver, Colorado. I am extremely disappointed. The "free" hdtv package wasn't free since I had to upgrade from analog to digital cable - which made my standard definition picture quality much worse.

I am also very disappointed in the content. Denver Comcast website suggests that hd subscribers will be able to see local channels in hd. This is simply not true. Only one local hd channel (KUSA) is available. KRMA hd isn't the local channel Ch. 6, it is the HD Demo loop coming from the national PBS HD feed. FOX 31 is broadcast in 480p which is NOT high definition. I was glad to see that your webmaster finally removed KMGH HD from the list of currently available local hd channels since that went beyond deceptive advertising to constitute out right fraud.

As for Comcast's other meager offerings; INHD movies are either forgettable C movies or more repetitious demo loops. ESPN HD will broadcast only 7 sporting events in October. There is much more hd content available with satellite systems. They offer Discovery HD, HDNet, SHO HD, HDNet Movies, and other features that cable can't offer - like Personal Video Recording and video on demand.

In approximately one year, all Denver hd local channels will be available with an antenna. Unless Comcast can offer comparable hd content at a competitive price, it will loose virtually all of its current hd subscribers to satellite systems.

I am not alone in my disappointment. The Internet has many High Definition forums filled with unhappy Denver Comcast customers. These web sites get thousands of visitors a day asking advice about current hd choices. I'm sure Comcast would much rather have current Comcast customers recommending their hd package rather than suggesting they take their business elsewhere.

In fairness to Comcast, most of the HD issues in the Denver market are a direct result of the mess created by (s)CARE that has delayed deployment of HD equipment while they argued about antenna placement. As a result, Comcast has a general label of "HD" that apparently is defined as any digitally transmitted EDTV or better content. But if they called it Comcast EDTV+ consumers would have no idea what they are offering and it would confuse the marketing Comcast does across the nation.


The fact is, Comcast HD can't transmit an HD signal that doesn't exist. And right now that limits them to very few local channels with "real" HD signals(KMGH-DT issues notwithstanding).

I gave this all a lot of thought before I decided to go with an OTA antenna approach. I just don't trust retransmission rights issues and wanted to get as much HD as I could find. The risky part was that I had to invest in a HDTV tuner just to find out if I could receive signals in my area.

Anyone who wants to receive ED and HD programming in Denver needs to be aware that the current situation is an unhappy compromise. Satellite provides more programming, but doesn't include local HD channels and requires a STB purchase. Comcast includes some (but not all) local EDTV+ channels and vary in quality from 480p to 1080i, but it is inexpensive and you can rent the STB. OTA requires a STB, mucking with antennas in attics or on the roof, and doesn't guarantee much as far as what you can receive -- but with some work you can probably get more programming that Comcast is offering.

For me, OTA turned out to be the right choice, but Comcast seemed very compelling before people actually started getting the service and saw all the limitations.

I haven't heard any talk here about WB-HDTV.

I know they aren't broadcasting OTA yet, but from what I hear, inside WB2, they've got an HD stream tape-delayed from the east coast that has local commercials inserted. The control room staff are treating their HD stream as if it is on the air. I'm sure Comcast could hook into that and be providing WB's HDTV to their customers if they wanted to.

hmmmm, so what equipment is needed to get ABC monday night games since we can't get it through COmcast and I refuse to get directtv and have to pay there outrageous fees.


What attena do you guys suggest? and which Receiver?

u-ray,

It will really depend on where you live to see if you even have a chance at ABC in Denver in HD. Besides, DIRECTV doesn't have ABC in HD on their system, regardless of the price you mentioned.

Jeff

Originally posted by ambient-sky

The fact is, Comcast HD can't transmit an HD signal that doesn't exist. And right now that limits them to very few local channels with "real" HD signals.

KMGH-TV, KCNC-TV are being broadcast OTA right now. Even though it is at low power, I think it qualifies as "existing". If KUSA can get their signal rebroadcast on Comcast, why can't the other two? I don't think it's a technical problem, it's financial. The only way to help get these stations and comcast to reach an agreement is to let them know that the longer they wait, the more customers they will loose.

Then again, angry letters may do nothing to help, but it made me feel better. :)

BTW, here is the response I got this morning from comcast:

Thank you for writing to Comcast.

We sincerely apologize for any unpleasant experience you had recently with your Comcast service and thank you for bringing this matter to our attention. We need to hear about any unsatisfactory situations in order to correct them and to enhance our level of customer service. I have forwarded your comments to the appropriate members of our development and management teams for further review and action. We appreciate that you took the time to help us keep our commitment to quality customer care.

Sincerely,

Christopher G
Comcast Online Customer Support Center

Do you guys think it's a form letter? If anyone else wrote them, please post their response.

The issue with KCNC is an issue between CBS and Comcast on a national level. Rumor has it Comcast wants to use less bandwidth to transmit CBS-HD on their cable systems and CBS doesn't want them to use anything less than the full 19.2mbps in order to maintain the excellent picture quality CBS-HD is known for. This is out of the hands of both KCNC and local Comcast folks.

dr_mal, Comcast could NOT take the test signal that KWGN is playing with right now and broadcast it because KWGN isn't licensed to broadcast yet. Everything boils down to the FCC approving their application. Don Rooney called me last week and we had a lengthy discussion about their situation. They're getting close to FCC approval, but we've been hearing that for months now. Don was actually expecting to have it in hand by the end of Sept, but that obviously didn't happen. Also, they don't have a video server for delay yet, so they are using VTRs to record and delay the shows currently. Don said he was desparately trying to work the $125,000 video server into this year's budget.

Dr_Mal,
I'm not sure if my email went to the local or the national Comcast. If it was just local, things have a way of trickling up to the people that make the decisions when there are unhappy customers involved. (Notice I said customer(s). I'm hoping more people will write.) Hopefully, Comcast will agree to give KCNC the bandwidth it wants. I'm sure most people would rather see the major networks with excellent hd pq than have another 20 bad sdtv stations available.

Originally posted by dr_mal
Rumor has it Comcast wants to use less bandwidth to transmit CBS-HD on their cable systems and CBS doesn't want them to use anything less than the full 19.2mbps in order to maintain the excellent picture quality CBS-HD is known for.

This is likely a rumor started by CBS. Comcast reported to the FCC in June that CBS, unlike ABC, NBC, PBS and Faux, is seeking compensation for Comcast being permitted to carry CBS's owned & operated stations' HD signals. If true, CBS would be acting contrary to the FCC's directive that broadcast HDTV be offered at no charge.

Unfortunately, the FCC's directive is not mandatory. However, CBS appears to be the only network not following the directive.

Of course, CBS denied Comcast's claim that this is what is holding up contract negotiations. But, interestingly, CBS said nothing to the FCC or anyone else about Comcast attempting to use less than a 19.3 mbps rate.

(Also, it has been reported by various Comcast executives that Comcast does use the full 19.3 mbps for transmission of HD locals. But I would not go solely on their "unofficial" word on this issue.)

By CBS's silence on this issue to the FCC, I take it as an admission by CBS that the issue between Comcast and CBS is not 19.3 mbps, but the issue of some sort of compensation.

The compensation CBS is likely requesting is not necessarily monetary-- it could include free or reduced cost advertising time or carriage of Viacom (CBS parent company) cable channels at a different cost than currently charged or to extend the carriage contract for a longer period, among many other possibilities.

You're correct, Comcast says CBS wants compensation, CBS says Comcast wants to ruin their signal. I meant to mention the other side -- somehow it slipped my mind.

I wouldn't necessarily assume that because CBS hasn't complained to the FCC that Comcast is not at fault. I don't think the FCC would have any say as to whether Comcast compresses or not so it wouldn't do CBS a lick of good to complain to them. Comcast, by claiming CBS is in violation of an FCC directive, has everything to gain by complaining to the FCC.

Of course, I hate cable companies and KCNC can do no wrong by me. Too bad this is tangled up at the corporate level.

Originally posted by SonomaSearcher

. . . it has been reported by various Comcast executives that Comcast does use the full 19.3 mbps for transmission of HD locals. But I would not go solely on their "unofficial" word on this issue.



KRMA-DT is being carried by Comcast in their HD package at the full 19.39 Mbps bandwidth, i.e. no compression is being introduced by Comcast. I subscribe to the HD package at home (I was already a digital cable subscriber) and enjoy watching our own KRMA-DT as well as the ESPN HD channel. I'm in the process of installing an off-air antenna, and between cable and OTA I'll have a reasonably broad selection of HD material to view.

Jim Schoedler
Director of Engineering
Rocky Mountain PBS (KRMA-DT)

On Comcast INHD and INHD2 I often get no picture (or audio) but instead get a message something like "the program will arrive shortly..." But it never does. This seems to happen more often when the overlying graphic indicates a movie should be seen in progress, but happens on the national geographic stuff, too?

Anyone else with this problem, or an explanation?

Originally posted by Jim Schoedler
KRMA-DT is being carried by Comcast in their HD package at the full 19.39 Mbps bandwidth, i.e. no compression is being introduced by Comcast. I subscribe to the HD package at home (I was already a digital cable subscriber) and enjoy watching our own KRMA-DT as well as the ESPN HD channel. I'm in the process of installing an off-air antenna, and between cable and OTA I'll have a reasonably broad selection of HD material to view.

Jim Schoedler
Director of Engineering
Rocky Mountain PBS (KRMA-DT) Thanks for that info Jim. That is a very interesting "data point" about Comcast not altering your signal (or not requesting KRMA alter it before they accept it).

Has Anyone used a DVI to Component cable in there set up. I ran out of component inputs on my tv and would like to use this cable to connect my Comcast rented Motorola 5100 to my 50" GWII. Here's a link to the cable

http://store.yahoo.com/cavinsinc/42-83404-001.html

Originally posted by BBYRNE
Has Anyone used a DVI to Component cable in there set up. I ran out of component inputs on my tv and would like to use this cable to connect my Comcast rented Motorola 5100 to my 50" GWII. Here's a link to the cable

http://store.yahoo.com/cavinsinc/42-83404-001.html

The DVI output is disabled on the 5100 as delivered from Comcast. If you're trying to connect the component output from the 5100 to a DVI input on your TV, you'll need to make sure that the DVI input on your TV will accept an analog component signal. I have not heard of this type of hook up... not that that means much!

MiD

Originally posted by JKM
On Comcast INHD and INHD2 I often get no picture (or audio) but instead get a message something like "the program will arrive shortly..." But it never does. This seems to happen more often when the overlying graphic indicates a movie should be seen in progress, but happens on the national geographic stuff, too?

Anyone else with this problem, or an explanation?

That's never happened to me. I think the next time it happens you should call Comcast and they'll send a signal that will reset your box. If that doesn't work, I assume that you have a bad 5100.

Tim

Originally posted by gakon
The KMGH logo and ABC lineup are no longer on the Comcast web site. Hmmm...
I just viewed the html source for the comcast web page, and the KMGH information is still there but commented out. I guess we can hope they are still working on getting this into the lineup quickly. They don't have anything other interesting secrets in there, however.

After seeing a similar post (on page 4 or 5 of this thread) I'm wondering how folks picture quality is on their HD channels. An earlier poster said they were having problems with INHD (1). I get lots of stuttering and pixilation on this channel. I'll get it once in a while on other channels, but I get it every 10 seconds or so. It's very consistent.

The earlier poster how had a similar problem was from Boulder. I'm from Boulder too and I'm wondering if this is a problem for us here.

I've had the service since 16 September and its been like this since the beginning. Is anyone else getting this? If so, where are you located? Maybe its a localized thing.

Thanks in advance.

Originally posted by LaVike


I've had the service since 16 September and its been like this since the beginning. Is anyone else getting this? If so, where are you located? Maybe its a localized thing.

Thanks in advance.


FWIW, I live in the So Parker area and have not had many problems. Occasionally, for a split second or so, I may get some minor pixelization or an audio dropout, but this occurs (maybe) once per hour, if that. It doesn't seem to be confined to one channel or another. Frankly, these problems seem to be much less frequent than with Dish.

I have always had a very good analog signal where I live; my signal strength is strong. I wonder if you're dealing with a borderline signal... Did the installation tech check the signal strength at the MOT 5100?

MiD

I'll have to check on the signal strength. Will these guys come out and check it?

LaVike,

I am the person in Boulder who was having problems with their INHD1 signal. It would pixelate every 5 seconds or so, and the sound would drop out at the same time. I was told that almost everybody in Boulder was having this problem. I have been working w/ Comcast to get this fixed since day 1. It took probably 45 phone calls, and 7 different techs coming out. Finally when I got home from work today, there was a Comcast tag on my door, saying my INHD 1 should be working now. I was very skeptical, since I have been trying to get it fixed for 3 weeks. To my suprise, the problem really had been fixed. I called the tech, and he told me that it was in fact a head end issue. They basically knew this since day 1, but had to jump through all kinds of hoops for 3 weeks to get the guys at head end to admit the problem was theirs, and fix the problem. So, check your INHD 1 today. If mine was fixed due to a repair at the head end, logic tells me that yours should be fixed as well. As a bonus, now I am receiving Showtime HD, before I only got HBO.

Brett

Yep. Those of you that have the hd package that gives you HBO HD on 651, will get Showtime HD on 650. It is also now listed on the comcast web site, so they must have snuck it in while HDJello wasn't looking at the html source code. :)
Well, it's not the network that I wanted, but at least it's something.

Just posting a note on how nice it is to finally have the high definition channels. I worked late and got home last night around 4 AM. I turned on the TV and watched part of A River Runs Through It in high def. Wow the picture was great, and it is one of my favorite movies. It is amazing how clear the picture is...

Jeff

Originally posted by nu2this
Yep. Those of you that have the hd package that gives you HBO HD on 651, will get Showtime HD on 650. It is also now listed on the comcast web site, so they must have snuck it in while HDJello wasn't looking at the html source code. :)
Well, it's not the network that I wanted, but at least it's something.

Any idea on why us HBO subscribers are now getting Showtime? I verified it last night, but I never received any notification of a temporary free trial. Don't get me wrong, I'm thrilled to get an additional HD movie channel.

Tim

Tim, I don't know. Maybe it has something to do with people complaining to them about the lack of HD programing. I'm not really naive enough to think that my letter had much to do with such a huge corporate decision, (you can read my ranting and their response is on page 9.) but it's nice to pretend that Comcast actually listens to their customers.

I have only the most basic package and a 5100 which means I should only get the local stations in HD but a couple days ago coincident with the pixellation problems clearing up, I started getting all of the Comcast HD programming. Just a guess on my part, but I think the pixellation problem in Boulder was probably caused by whatever hardware they were using to control who got what parts of the HD package. They probably took the hardware (or software) package off the feed to clear it up and voila - the whole deal. I would also bet that they are looking for a fix while we sleep. I shall enjoy it while it lasts.
Happ

I am also setup for the basic package with the 5100 and when the Comcast technician came out to install it last week he got it setup so that I would get inHD, inHD2, and ESPN-HD along with the locals. Then I noticed on Wednesday that they were gone, so I called CS and they said that many people were compaining about that and tried to reset it from their. When I got up the next morning everything was back again, and now I realized on Friday evening that we have Showtime and HBO HD as well!

From how I read the information on the new HD package we are supposed to get everything that they offer in HD (inHD, inHD2, ESPN-HD, and locals) at least until the end of the year. I didn't think that included HBO and Showtime, but hey I'm not complaining!

The one that I have learned over the last week with the 5100 reciever is how spoiled I am with the Dish receivers and the online guides. The guide on the 5100 sucks, it is the hardest guide to use that I have ever seen! I would have expected much better from TV Guide and Motorola.

[
The one that I have learned over the last week with the 5100 reciever is how spoiled I am with the Dish receivers and the online guides. The guide on the 5100 sucks, it is the hardest guide to use that I have ever seen! I would have expected much better from TV Guide and Motorola. [/B][/QUOTE]


Same here- It's terrible
Happ14

Originally posted by b5lurker
The one that I have learned over the last week with the 5100 reciever is how spoiled I am with the Dish receivers and the online guides. The guide on the 5100 sucks, it is the hardest guide to use that I have ever seen! I would have expected much better from TV Guide and Motorola.
Wow -- the 5100 is worse than Dish receivers? I didn't even know that was possible. (I have an ExpressVu [Dish Network rebranded] receiver -- worst piece of garbage I've ever used)

Brett,
I finally rechecked INHD and the pixilation problems are gone. Thanks for sending all the letters. I'm also getting the "full" lineup of HD channels.

What channel numbers are the local HD channels?

I am in Boulder, and when I started service about two weeks ago the Comcast person told me they were running a special until the end of the year where if I moved to Digital Cable (which he had to do to get my HD signal working) that I would get HBO and Showtime free until the end of the year. So maybe they just figure they can put everyone on that plan as well for the time being.

I have also had my INHD signal problems fixed, I'm glad to the member who complained so much to get them to fix the head-end problem.

Currently I have Comcast HD, but since they are not broadcasting CBS (CSI) or most Broncos games (CBS and ABC), I am wondering about getting those channels over the air in addition to my Comcast signal. Unfortunately, I am in Boulder (Foothills and Arapahoe), and I'm not sure that I will be able to get any of the downtown Denver broadcasts. Has anyone had luck pulling those in to Boulder?

Also, when the lookout mountain broadcasts start, will I be able to receive those in Boulder? Any information (sites, threads) on the lookup mountain rollouts?

Thanks,
Josh

Two diff. CSRs at Comcast assured me I'd get HBO-HD and SHW-HD if I signed up for HD. But the installers said no, not w/o buying the premium channels. Then just last week, w/o warning or explanation, I too began getting these 2 HD channels, just like I was promised when I signed up.

Now how about the promised ABC...........

chamelion - try this thread for Lookout Mountain reception information:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=28456

Hi,

I called Comcast day before yesterday asking the possibility for ordering PPV by the remote. The answer is it will be enabled by 13th (yesterday). Is there anyone getting it now? What's the story?

Xiaoyu,

Originally posted by markdl
What channel numbers are the local HD channels?

Mark,

Here is the current Comcast HD lineup:
650 - Showtime East HD
651 - HBO East HD
653 - KUSA
655 - KDVR
658 - KRMA
664 - INHD
667 - INHD
668 - ESPN-HD

Steve

Hi,

There is a wide black border around the whole picture on the Showtime. Does anyone see it, but why?

Xiaoyu,

xiaoyu,

It may have been the particular program.

Or if you have a 720p display maybe the install tech did not set the Motorola cable box up correctly.

To switch the Motorola to display 720p you need to access the cable box's service menu:

From the ON position hit the "power" and then "menu" buttons.
A black and white service menu will appear.
Select output 720p
Select 4:3 override to Off
To exit the menu turn the cable box off

Hope this helps,

Jeff

Hi Jeff,

Thank you for your response. My box has been set on the 720p, but the 4:3 overide is on. I don't really understand what is this overide mean. Can you explain more? All the HBO works OK. Only the Showtime.

Xiaoyu,

Got a flyer from Comcast offering Cinemax or HBO for free for three months. So now I get HBO HD, SHO HD, and Skinemax (SD) for free (don't know how long the first two will last). I still miss MNF, but I'll give Comcast a break for a little while. When I called to get Cinemax, I asked the usual question, and got the usual answer: "We have no schedule for the addition of any more HD channels". Disappointing.

I don't know how many of you saw this article in the New York Times yesterday, but it gives some insight on why we don't have CBS and ABC on Denver's cable system.


http://www.nytimes.com/2003/10/20/business/media/20comcast.html

It appears that the networks and/or the stations are not the only ones playing hardball and refusing to let Comcast carry their signal. Comcast is now so powerful, they are apparently being just as obstinate in coming to some sort of agreement.

I, too, was thinking Comcast was doing it's best to get both HDTV signals on their system and that the stations were being unreasonable. This article pretty much shoots down that theory.

It could be a LONG time before we see CBS and ABC.

John in Jeffco

This NY Times article doesn't tell us anything we didn't already know before about Comcast. And it doesn't say anything about negotiations for the CBS O&O's HD signals being carried by Comcast.

I don't know why your ABC isn't carried by Comcast-- it is carried in just about every Comcast system regardless of whether the station is owned by ABC or an independent broadcasting group. So that is a local issue-- you should find out who owns your local ABC and contact them for their version of why you aren't getting ABC HD via Comcast. (I can tell you that it is not owned by Disney/ABC.)

As to CBS, this is a different situation. Your CBS along with 16 others are owned and operated by Viacom/CBS, which is refusing to give Comcast permission to carry these 17 stations' HD signals. Viacom won't give Comcast that permission until Comcast agrees to renegotiate agreements regarding all of Viacom's other channels-- CBS analog, UPN, MTV and all its digital versions, Nickleodeon and all its digital versions, etc.

I don't think Comcast is going to capitulate to Viacom's renegotiation demands on all these different networks at the drop of a hat just so it can get carriage of HD signals-- if CBS is going to take this aggressive/unyielding position, it is going to take a long time to work out all the details of new carriage contracts on all of these Viacom broadcast and cable channels.

Bear in mind two things regarding CBS HD carriage over Comcast: (1) Comcast has entered into HD/digital carriage deals with relatively little problem for the O&O stations for ABC, NBC, Fox (ED now, HD in fall 2004) and PBS as well as many independently owned stations for these networks; and (2) Comcast has entered into HD/digital carriage deals with no problem for the local CBS stations which are NOT owned by Viacom.

So CBS/Viacom has taken a negotiating position about its O&O's HD signals which was not taken by ABC, NBC, Fox, PBS or by the independently owned CBS stations.

The one thing that will push Viacom-Comcast negotiations to a head by early January 2004: The 2004 Super Bowl is on CBS. You have to believe that Comcast is eager to get carriage of CBS HD in time for the Super Bowl-- but not so eager that it is going to pay whatever Viacom wants for MTV and Nickleodeon.

Right now at least, Comcast offers HD locals at no cost above the cost of basic analog service ($5/mo. equipment charge for the 5100 STB). If Comcast simply caved into Viacom's demands, you can be sure a precedent would be set and we would all end up having to pay extra for HD locals.

I am running directv and fox OTA through my sony hd-200, After talking to a comcast rep I was led to believe that I will not be able to access the HD programming from Comcast without purchasing or renting their decoder. Does any one know if there is any way to bypass their cable box and use a HD tuner like mine to grab the locals?

Please consider taking the following Denver cable poll, here at AVS:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=316317

-Tim

Originally posted by Gosineium
I am running directv and fox OTA through my sony hd-200, After talking to a comcast rep I was led to believe that I will not be able to access the HD programming from Comcast without purchasing or renting their decoder. Does any one know if there is any way to bypass their cable box and use a HD tuner like mine to grab the locals?

You can bypass the need for a cable box if you have a TV with a built-in ATSC tuner that will handle the QAM (I think that's right) modulation that they use. There are a few of these TVs out there, and there should be lots more next year.

Also, you can rent the box and get the lowest level of Comcast cable to get the local HD channels that they carry. That would be channels 6 and 9, and may include the InHD channels. You do not need to buy a digital package. I think that would cost you less than $20 a month.

Tim

Originally posted by SonomaSearcher
This NY Times article doesn't tell us anything we didn't already know before about Comcast. And it doesn't say anything about negotiations for the CBS O&O's HD signals being carried by Comcast.

I don't know why your ABC isn't carried by Comcast-- it is carried in just about every Comcast system regardless of whether the station is owned by ABC or an independent broadcasting group. So that is a local issue-- you should find out who owns your local ABC and contact them for their version of why you aren't getting ABC HD via Comcast. (I can tell you that it is not owned by Disney/ABC.)


So, SonomaSearcher, just what is your position in Comcast? Of course the NY Times article tells us things we didn't know, such as they're forcing some providers (Court TV) to take less money for carriage.

We also know that ABC in Denver is a local issue, we know who owns them and we have their version of why they're not on Comcast.

As to the Viacom/CBS issue, that's EXACTLY what the article is pointing out; that Comcast has enough muscle not to capitualte to Viacom, who has historically been used to getting it's way with most cable operators.

You must be with the Comcast spin-team. Why else would anyone in California care what's happening in Denver?

John in Jeffco

Does anyone have any information on when us northies could get Comcast HDTV. The first time I called, the CSR said that it was available, only to crush my hopes later while setting up the install. I have gbeen calling once a week for the past three weeks only to keep getting the standard "not available yet" line. Today, someone finally told me that it would be a few months. However, when I pumped them for a date, they said they had no timeline. Any help that could be offered would be greatful. Thanks for your time.

Originally posted by johnty

We also know that ABC in Denver is a local issue, we know who owns them and we have their version of why they're not on Comcast.

John in Jeffco

John,

What is Channel 7's reason for not being on Comcast? I know there was some arguing going on awhile back when Channel 7 wanted that all-news channel. Comcast caved in and gave it to them (see channel 207). I thought that was supposed to solve all of the problems (channel 7 was threating to pull the analog channel if they didn't get their way). So, what is their reason now?

I sent Ed Quinn an e-mail the other day and got the following rather lame response:

On behalf of Ed Quinn, interim General Manager at KMGH, I want
to let you know we are currently in negotiations with Comcast to carry
our HD signal. We hope to have a resolution soon!
Thank you for writing and thank you for watching.

Mickey Petty
Executive Assistant, KMGH-TV
mickey_petty@kmgh.com
303-832-0221

By the time they do, Monday Night Football will be over, so it won't matter :(

Originally posted by johnty
So, SonomaSearcher, just what is your position in Comcast? Of course the NY Times article tells us things we didn't know, such as they're forcing some providers (Court TV) to take less money for carriage.

We also know that ABC in Denver is a local issue, we know who owns them and we have their version of why they're not on Comcast.

You must be with the Comcast spin-team. Why else would anyone in California care what's happening in Denver?



If you'd take the time to read some of my other posts in other threads, you'd realize I'm just a Comcast subscriber out here. (I think its customer service sucks, its marketing and advertising is sometimes misleading and its rates are too high.) And I am just as concerned, if not more so, than you about the lack of CBS HD on Comcast since it is nearly impossible to receive my local CBS digital signal OTA.

However, I have done my research and my posts contain facts and my opinions based on the facts. Facts, such as Comcast and ABC, NBC, Fox and PBS have no problems reaching deals; and Comcast and independently owned CBS affiliates have no problem reaching deals. So, IF you want to lay some "blame" for why we don't have CBS HD over Comcast, the vast majority of it would seem to lie with Viacom-- no one can question that it is seeking different and more favorable terms than those agreed to by ABC, NBC, Fox, PBS and independently owned CBS affiliates, otherwise the agreement would have been done long ago.

Another fact: Viacom has only been able to reach HD carriage deals with a couple of the major cable operators: Time Warner and (as of one month ago) Cablevision. Both Time Warner and Cablevision require a digital cable subscription in order to get HD locals; Comcast does not. (Thus, Time Warner has a built in charge to recompensate the cost paid to CBS for CBS HD; Comcast does not, which is what was intended by the FCC.)

So, I say more power to Comcast if it is going to hold a hard line on negotiations with Viacom and refuse to give into Viacom's requests for special compensation for HD beyond what any other broadcast network wants. My cable rates are high enough, including another increase effective next month.

We also know that ABC in Denver is a local issue, we know who owns them and we have their version of why they're not on Comcast

I have heard many versions of KMGH's reasons why HDTV is not available to more than 2 dozen people in the Denver area. I have a letter from the KMGH legal team which shows that KMGH has not been always entirely truthful and up front to the FCC or its constituents.

I don't see any reason to believe that KMGH has changed that behavior or attitude towards HDTV. Maybe it wasn't a Cindy problem after all.

BTW, my 17-1 signal strength is 0 every Monday night at 7:00. 400K for a temporary HDTV broadcast solution on Republic Plaza? C'mon.

Sorry for the rant. Not sorry to bash the denver channel.

Don

Honestly? So you're saying KMGH turns down the signal strength for MNF so that it can't be received?

I have a 0 signal strength on 17-1 all of the time, but I only seem to want to check it at 7:00 on Monday night.

Read the multi-year history of KMGH and HDTV in the Denver HDTV tower thread... KMGH is the running gag there.

Don

Originally posted by Tom Roper
Honestly? So you're saying KMGH turns down the signal strength for MNF so that it can't be received? Ha. That's funny. If they turned down the signal strength anymore they'd be sucking power out of the atmosphere. ;)

There are many of us with a 0 signal strength at 7 PM on Monday's....or at any other time. Their toy transmitter/coat-hanger antenna barely covers their parking lot. Not many folks can receive it. And when pressed by several of us to improve their low power setup their attorney sent out a letter with less than truthful "facts" regarding the time it would take to get on the air from Lookout ("shortly" was in their somewhere and this was written quite awhile back). They also claimed it would cost $400,000 to setup on Republic Plaza which many of us know is pure bunk.

HEAR YE, HEAR YE, OH HEAR YE!
THE FOLLOWING IS AN ANNOUNCEMENT FOR LOCAL (DENVER AND SUBURBS) AVS FORUM MEMBERS!
WE HAVE BEEN INVITED TO TOUR THE HDNet FACILTIES!

Sorry we took so long with this, but the HDNet crew has been very busy installing new equipment and getting geared up for the hockey telecasts. As a result we have had a tough time trying to find a date when they expect to have a remote truck on the facility so we can include that in a tour. The last tour included a look at their broadcast rooms, the areas where the commercials and other visuals for the network are generated, and the remote truck(s) used for the sports telecasts we all enjoy watching. The tour was very informative and also a great chance to give them some direct feedback as to how you think they could improve their channels. In addition, this time, they of course now have the movie channels being telecast and of course are also doing more original programming than a few years back.

HDNet has suggested that we shoot for something on the afternoon of Wed., Nov. 5. Since most seemed to like the last tour in late afternoon (likely 4-5 PM) I think we will target that time again. It seems to work well in that most of us can get in a day's work, beat the rush hour traffic to get there, and get home early in the evening for other activities. I think the last tour took about 90 minutes, a lot depending upon the number of questions and discussions that come up.

I would like to get a tentative head count for those who can and want to attend this tour so we can decide if it is worth setting up. Please post back to the Denver Tower Thread (Denver Thread) (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=28456) if you are likely to make it to this tour. I will post the address and directions as we get close to the date. For those unfamiliar with HDNet's facilities, they are located on the grounds of of the old Stapleton Airport area east of Denver and are readily accessible from I70 and other freeways in the area.

Let me know if this sounds like a good thing. The tour is open to all in the AVS forum members in the Denver and Northern Colorado area. If it is not too full, we can invite members from Colorado Springs threads or others as well. Anyone interested????????

HDNet fact sheet page (http://www.hd.net/factsheet.html)

Originally posted by JMartinko
...used for the sports telecasts we all enjoy watching.


It sounds interesting. Unfortunately, Comcast doesn't offer HDNet and I've havn't heard of any plans to carry it. Does anyone else know if HDNet and Comcast have anything in the works?

Originally posted by nu2this
It sounds interesting. Unfortunately, Comcast doesn't offer HDNet and I've havn't heard of any plans to carry it. Does anyone else know if HDNet and Comcast have anything in the works?

Highly doubtful although they are "still negotiating" and have been for the past year. The InHD channels are looked at by Comcast as reducing the need for HDNet and HDNet Movies-- I disagree as I think they would complement each other nicely and there is so little HD out there anyway. Plus HDNet has its own exclusive self-generated programs and exclusives such as NHL HD and MLS HD.

Also, to the extent bandwidth is limited, Comcast will give lesser priority to HDNet versus HD locals and other revenue generators. When more bandwidth opens up, there will be a better chance of getting HDNet added.

Unfortunately, I think we will see CBS HD, Discovery HD and WB HD and/or UPN HD on Comcast before HDNet. Also, Cinemax HD, The Movie Channel HD and Starz HD should all be on Comcast systems by the end of December.

Originally posted by SonomaSearcher
Also, Cinemax HD, Showtime HD and Starz HD should all be on Comcast systems by the end of December.

This is when the price will go up also. My Comcast bill lists HBO at $13.05 and Cinemax at $12.12. Both of these are deducted from the total under the heading "Service Discount". Should I assume that when this free trial period is over that they will be charging $12.00 to $13.00 more for each new HD channel?

Originally posted by nu2this
It sounds interesting. Unfortunately, Comcast doesn't offer HDNet and I've havn't heard of any plans to carry it. Does anyone else know if HDNet and Comcast have anything in the works?

Just a quick clarification for those of you with Comcast who do not get or have not seen HDNet from other sources, if you are interested in seeing what an HD production studio, remote location production trucks and transmit facility look like from the inside, you are still welcome to join the us. You will not be required to produce evidence of reception in order to enjoy the tour, you just need to RSVP on the Denver Tower thread.
;)

Thanks for including us "Comcasters" John.

Anybody else get a call from Comcast? They were asking me some questions about the new HD service. Things like "how knowledgeable was the CSR" and so on. At the end, they asked me about my impressions of SD on the new box (I said worse than before), my impressions of the HD channels (I said awesome), and if I had anything else to say (more channels, of course).

I hope they listen. I really want the Moto 6208 which I hope has better PQ on SD, and I really want to get more channels. I can dream.

Tim

Originally posted by mayest
Anybody else get a call from Comcast?

Same questions, same answers.

Tim,

I also got a call - basically answered the same as you did. I tried to get some info on ABC but the CSR did not know much, she said it should be soon. I just hope soon is before Monday Night Football is over... we will see.

Jeff

Originally posted by Jim Schoedler
KRMA-DT is being carried by Comcast in their HD package at the full 19.39 Mbps bandwidth, i.e. no compression is being introduced by Comcast.

Jim Schoedler
Director of Engineering
Rocky Mountain PBS (KRMA-DT)

Jim, does KRMA carry the time-synch signal that most PBS stations broadcast? Maybe this is a cable issue, but I recall that a PBS station in the DC area did send out the signal, and when I first bought my VCR and plugged it in there, it automatically set the clock. However, the PBS stations in Denver don't seem to carry this signal as my VCR won't auto set the clock when I tune to a NTSC PBS station here. I don't recall if I had cable or OTA in DC when the VCR auto set the clock, but it doesn't auto set the clock here and I've only had cable 3 of 6 years here. This could also be an issue with DT, especially regarding the Samsung STB which has clock issues when trying to record HD. I know I recorded the wrong NTSC shows the day after daylight savings time ended because the clock in my VCR was still on daylight savings! :( Also will PSIP info be retransmitted with HD cable?

Originally posted by HDTimeShifter
Jim, does KRMA carry the time-synch signal that most PBS stations broadcast? Maybe this is a cable issue, but I recall that a PBS station in the DC area did send out the signal, and when I first bought my VCR and plugged it in there, it automatically set the clock. However, the PBS stations in Denver don't seem to carry this signal as my VCR won't auto set the clock when I tune to a NTSC PBS station here. ...

My Panasonic D-VHS connected to an OTA antenna and programmed to check channel 6 does auto clock set. So, maybe this is a cable issue.

Michael

I was told by 2 different Comcast CSRs that HDTV was available in my area, they just got done "upgrading" my neighborhood. I called to order it, and was told it was not available. I did upgrade my expanded basic to digital because of the current promotion. I asked the installer (a contractor) about HDTV availability, but he had no idea.

When I was going through the channels, I came across the HD channels. I get the information about the programs, but no screen. I realize this is normal, given that I am not subscribed to the HD channels, and don't have the proper converter. Is it normal to get the info on the HD channels even if HDTV is not available in my area?

Thanks-

Patrick

There is a thread over at http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=311045 which says that the DVI connection is starting to be turned on by various Comcast systems. Apparently, you need to have firmware version 6.04 for it to work (I don't know if there are other requirements). At the moment, I still have firmware version 5.03, so I guess we don't have the DVI yet.

Oh, great. Now I will have to start worrying about how I'm going to switch between the DVD and the cable box, with only one DVI input on my Samsung.

I am still annoyed about the lack of CBS and ABC, but watching some of the HBO and SHO HD (for free) sure makes me feel better.

Edit:
CSR I spoke with said the 5100's won't get the DVI activated. I'm not home, so I don't remember if mine even has the port. They're rolling out the 6200's in January, which will have both DVI and Firewire active.
He was not that optimistic about getting KWGN/ABC, and that it would be AFTER the NFL season was over. He also mentioned that he thought KCNC/CBS was a distinct possibility before the Super Bowl (no way he can guarantee anything, though).

I don't mind waiting until January for the 6200 box (actually, I hope its the 6208 which one of the line techs told me they were looking at this summer). I'm pretty happy with the component connection on the 5100, but my Sammy is itching to exercise its DVI port.

About those local channels. I'm really bummed to hear about ABC. At least with CBS I know that they are having a big battle with Comcast nationwide (well, the O&O stations). I have no idea at all what's going on with Channel 7. I do know that they just hired a new GM from a McGraw-Hill owned ABC station in San Diego. I did a little search on the situation in San Diego the other day and it seems that the San Diego ABC is available in HD on both of their cable systems (TWC and Cox). The bad news is that that station seems to have a pretty bad reputation with viewers. Sounds much like our own, so it may not get better anytime soon.

Tim

I'm a current Dish Network customer and am considering making the jump to Comcast ($400 credit for us satellite types). I'll be getting my 42" Panny ED soon and was wondering what people thought of the HD and the SD material in comparison to Dish Network's offerings. Has anyone seen both?

Glad I found this thread.

I'm in Fort Collins and currently have dish with a dish 6000 box and a mit tv. I'm thinking of switching to comcast, and was told HD service would be available in FC by Dec 1st (per the csr - she also told me cbs is available in HD!).

I was living in downtown Denver and could get all the local digital signals with a roof top antenna. My HOA in FC won't allow a rooftop antenna, so I have not tried to get cbs from cheyenne. I was able to get a waiver from kcnc for the HD feed through dish, but those *******s in cheyenne won't give me a waiver! Anyone in nothern CO getting digital cbs signal from cheyenne?? Think I could do it without a roof top antenna?

What expensive equipement do I have to buy to attempt to get an antenna signal using a comcast digital box?

ranting... I've got all this expensive hardware (mit 55", dish 6000 with 8vsb, two dishes on my roof) and still can't get much programming. I've been messing with this stuff for three plus years, and all i have to show for it is some expensive hardware. No wonder so many people hack. At least dish has a pvr at no charge. If I go with comcast, sounds like I'll have to get tivo for the prv. I know - its only tv. feeling better now..

I'll post what I find out for norther CO programming..

John in Fort Collins

jme5 - the cheyenne CBS affiliate (KGWN-DT 30) still doesn't have any HD, just a streched SD with continuing audio problems, despite their screen graphic specifically states "HDTV Channel 30" for over a month now. There's another thread that is following their promised entry into HD here: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=2856134#post2856134

that is following their progress, however that nasty 'B' word (budget) has worked its way into their emails and they have since appeared to stop replying to inquiries.

It does seem, more in the denver area than anywhere else, that HD is a controlled substance - and we don't get to have it. Drugs are less controlled.

The locals in HD on cable are: 1 channel that is horizontally streched (14:9 just to ensure that we can't fix it) and also over-stretched when showing Fox Widescreen with an audio sync problem that today is off by more than a second (and it isn't even HD), one that is mostly a demo loop (not KRMA's fault, it's PBS), and one station (our 'leader') that forgets to "flip the switch", so HD is spotty, but usually has leno in HD. No ABC or CBS (KMGH is controlling that cable doesn't get ABC, CBS is due to hq).

Originally posted by jme5
My HOA in FC won't allow a rooftop antenna
The federal government trumps HOA when it comes to allowing rooftop antennas. Your HOA may not like it, but they can't disallow it: http://www.fcc.gov/mb/facts/otard.html

Does anybody have any experience with Comcast saying the house is not serviceable for Cable TV? It looks like my new house is in that category, even though they say the house next store (shared driveway) is serviceable? It takes them almost a week to come up with this, and the CSRs have no more information than that, and aren't able/willing to connect me with somebody who knows what they are talking about. May be going D* or E* after all. I was originally hoping to have Comcast HD and Internet access....

Has anyone heard if/when Denver Comcast will offer thier DVR (Digital Video Recorder)?

I see that other markets are expecting it in the next month or so. I spoke with a couple of Comcast CSR's yesterday but they kept confusing DVR with Video on Demand (coming in the next month or so).

I am a current Dish Network PVR (home plan) customer and am hooked on the pause and record features of this unit. I have been waiting on the new 921 HD PVR to come out but it appears that we will have to fork out close to $1,000 for this thing. I also understnd that it will not be available under thier home plan (lease).

Sooo, Comcast is looking pretty attractive assuming I can get DVR.

oops... double post

KKelley,

I'm in the same boat. My wife loves the dish pvr and I'm looking to switch to comcast. Looks like tivo is the solution, but I have a hard time paying a monthly fee to record. I've searched for a dvr unit like my dish pvr that would work with cable, but don't come up with much at all. Comcast csr told me they would have a cable box with built in tivo "sometime in the future". I don't care so much about recording in HD and would go back to vcr before I plunk down $1000. Anyone have a dvr solution??

John

jme5,

What kind of fee does Tivo charge? I am wondering if I should pick up a cheap one just for SD and drop it when the Comcast DVR unit is available.

I really am itching to start watching HDTV but need a solution that works for my families viewing preferences...

BTW, it looks like the Comcast DVR will record HD.

There are a few levels of TiVo fees:

For standalones, it's $12.95/month or $299 for the lifetime of the unit.

For DirecTV/TiVo "combo" boxes, it's $4.99/month.

There will be a HD DirecTV/TiVo probably in the March/April timeframe.

I don't want to hijack a Comcast thread here, but the DirecTV/TiVo combo box is the way to go these days. $99 for the box, $4.99 for the TiVo service, and dual tuners. There are lots of DVRs out there, but TiVo has the most robust feature set.

That said, if you're planning on getting a TiVo only until Comcast gets their own DVR out the door, get a standalone TiVo. You won't be locked into any year-long commitments like DirecTV will want. If you're looking for cheap, www.servicedvr.com has factory refurbished Series 1 standalones for around $100.

dr_mal,

Do you know if DirectTV will have some sort of lease plan for the HD TiVo box or will it cost big bucks like the Dish 921?

Thanks!

I suspect it'll be a big buck purchase (rumours are that it'll be agressively priced $200 less than the 921), although DirecTV has been running some lease experiments for their HD receivers in other cities lately.

Luckily for me, the anticipated release date is right around the time I get my income tax refund ;)

I don't mean to rain on the Comcast parade either, but I bet most of you on the fence would be happier with DirecTV - Tivo. I'm a former longtime United Cable, TCI Cable, Time Warner Malone customer. I only switched to DirecTV because just as you are waiting for channels and features now, I was waiting for TCI to pick up the SpeedVision then, so I could see F1 races. I kept getting excuses, it's coming etc. I guess if finally did, but I couldn't wait.

Now...the only reason I am remotely considering Comcast is to get HD local channels, particularly 7 KMGH for Monday Nite Football. Well, obviously that has not worked out.

Meanwhile, one minor consideration you will appreciate about DirecTV is the price plan you agree to is what you pay...no taxes, I don't know why.

I have the $99 DirecTV - Tivo combo box for the bedroom. For $4.99/mo you can record (2) programs at once while watching a third recorded program, or watch a live program while recording another, or watch the program while it is recording, or pause live TV, or select Season Pass and record a whole season of episodes minus repeat encores....etc, etc. I think it's pretty neat.

dr_mal,

Do you know if DirectTV will have some sort of lease plan for the HD TiVo box or will it cost big bucks like the Dish 921?

Thanks!

SORRY FOR THE DOUBLE POST. SOMETHING WIERD HAPPENED WITH MY BROWSER...

Someone posted earlier that Comcast will roll out the Moto. 6200 in Jan. I hope they do. That's what I'm waiting for. With it, all's you need is a 1394/firewire hard drive to make it into a PVR. I dought that Comcast will have available the 6208 which has an intergraded 80g hard drive for quite sometime.

http://broadband.motorola.com/catalog/productdetail.asp?ProductID=358