I don’t know if TW will eventually upgrade the Passport boxes. Perhaps they are expecting customers to exchange them on their own because of these additional HDVOD channels. That could be motivation enough for some—not me.

I think you're on the money there; when I switched to their phone service I got a real "sell" to swap my box for a new one to get the phone ID on-TV.

The "Start Over" feature seems to only work on programs that are 30 minutes in length, and only on the newer software.

You can pause and rewind, but can't fast forward.I discovered the Start Over last night too. :rolleyes: It’s another novel way (conspiracy), forcing us into watching commercials-- continuing the flow of the revenue stream. This and the On Screen Caller ID are ridiculous and obtrusive gadgets that do nothing for my enjoyment of HD viewing.

Give me a DVR with two swappable-buffered tuners, a massive hard drive, and the best--- the best-- possible picture (and audio) quality. They can keep their bells and whistles.

Actually, additional HD space is going to be a MUCH bigger issue comes mid Dec. There's still a ton of stuff I record in SD (FX and SciFi) that I will have to record in HD now.

Time to buy that external drive (if you don't already have one!).

Actually, one other improvement in the HDC box seems to be that the functionality of external drives has been improved. The "buffer problem" seems to have gone away with the HDCs. Reports say they had their own problem with an earlier code release (something about the box going to sleep, but the drive not waking up again after the box woke up?), but I believe that that problem has been fixed with the current software that is deployed.

Scott

Give me a DVR with two swappable-buffered tuners, a massive hard drive, and the best--- the best-- possible picture (and audio) quality. They can keep their bells and whistles.

That's the Pio SA-8300 HD DVR that's widely used by TWC, right? I have that and love it, especially the ability to 'buffer' up to an hour of show while I do other things and then catch-up as I skip commercials. NFL football games are so much enjoyable this way, plus I get stuff done in that hour the DVR is 'buffering.' Now, please correct me if I'm wrong. I'm in Southern Manhattan (Harlem). The new HD boxes that are coming are only needed for StartOver, phone ID and On Demand HD, right? If I just plan to watch/DVR regular HD channels and SD On Demand stuff my SA 8300 HD DVR is good enough to get all the new HD channels TWC will be adding in Dec. and later in 2009 (knock on wood! :rolleyes: ). Am I right? Or do I need to upgrade to the 'bufferless' new boxes to get the new HD channels that aren't On Demand HD? Please confirm! :confused:

That's the Pio SA-8300 HD DVR that's widely used by TWC, right? I have that and love it, especially the ability to 'buffer' up to an hour of show while I do other things and then catch-up as I skip commercials. NFL football games are so much enjoyable this way, plus I get stuff done in that hour the DVR is 'buffering.' Now, please correct me if I'm wrong. I'm in Southern Manhattan (Harlem). The new HD boxes that are coming are only needed for StartOver, phone ID and On Demand HD, right? If I just plan to watch/DVR regular HD channels and SD On Demand stuff my SA 8300 HD DVR is good enough to get all the new HD channels TWC will be adding in Dec. and later in 2009 (knock on wood! :rolleyes: ). Am I right? Or do I need to upgrade to the 'bufferless' new boxes to get the new HD channels that aren't On Demand HD? Please confirm! :confused:

You are correct sir. :cool: Don't give up that box!

Time to buy that external drive (if you don't already have one!).

Actually, one other improvement in the HDC box seems to be that the functionality of external drives has been improved. The "buffer problem" seems to have gone away with the HDCs. Reports say they had their own problem with an earlier code release (something about the box going to sleep, but the drive not waking up again after the box woke up?), but I believe that that problem has been fixed with the current software that is deployed.

Scott

Almost forgot about the buffer issue... that was what kinda halted me from going the external drive route last winter/spring. Then again, 1T drives are far more reasonable now than 8 months ago!

However, I have also read at least 2 reports of folks with ODN on SA HDCs where an OS update totally wiped all content on the external drive... and no way to "see" them again, despite multi-voodoo moves.

I tell you, I thought I'd stick w/TWC after they seemingly made me such a good deal, but after seeing the first bill, I see how deceptive they really are; the 5 bucks/mo for phone service ballooned to 17/mo so I'm now far more inclined to go FIOS. My building is dead center in my block and we ARE pursuing Verizon to "host" equipment... they will PAY us for this and I get a node right below me. Even so, I have NO IDEA when this may come about...

By this I mean mostly audio drop-outs, but it can refer to video break-ups as well. I had always thought of this as result of maxing the bandwidth they used.

However, given that something like 25-35 analog have been dropped to accommodate the 70 new HD channels set to arrive in 4 weeks, the system SHOULD be running with lots of excess bandwidth at this point.

HOWEVER, during the past 2-3-4 weeks it seems to me that I'm seeing actually a lot more glitching than previously.

I should say Man-North here...

...I'm in Southern Manhattan (Harlem)...

Uh, Harlem is hardly in Southern Manhattan!

.... but after seeing the first bill, I see how deceptive they really are; the 5 bucks/mo for phone service ballooned to 17/mo so I'm now far more inclined to go FIOS....Keep in mind, FIOS will probably have just as many, if not more, “sir” charges too, despite their claims. Regardless, when FIOS is available, you will definitely have more bargaining advantages in your hand, to play one against the other, for a better price. ;)

In my temporary residence (in Bay Terrace), FIOS is available, so TW gives us any perks that they have-- the blazing fast internet speed for one. I think it was 20mb? I don’t remember the exact speed but the TW installer checked it on Speakeasy (http://www.speakeasy.net/speedtest/) and was really impressed. I can’t check :( since my Apple is now apple sauce and the replacement won’t be in until next week.

Start Over was the first really cool feature that I thought would actually force me to switch out my HD box for a HDC. The on demand HD channel is not all that important to be as long as I keep getting all thenew channels.

Now that I've heard you can't fast forward, there's almost no point to Start Over at all. I simply am unwilling to watch commercials at this point. On the news during a major story, maybe. Maybe for sports right towards the end of the game where I've caught up and only have the last few minutes left of the game. That's it. I'm tired of having my time wasted by crappy commercials that are loud and irritating.

Guess I'm sticking to my HD box. Anyone have an idea if they are planning on debuting a larger hard drive on a completely new box sometime soon?

The "Start Over" feature seems to only work on programs that are 30 minutes in length, and only on the newer software.

You can pause and rewind, but can't fast forward.

It's just a buffer, nothing more.

A_C

So with Start Over Feature you can Start over again and again but can't fast forward? Can we add Collusion on top of Monopoly. The feature sounds cool and I wouldn't mind HD on demand but I'm not switching my DVR either. I have heard some complaints about Fios picture quality not being as good as TW. I really can't wait to dump TW. I would like "trade down to Fios" :D

It's just a buffer, nothing more.

A_C

Well, it sounds like its not even a buffer.

It's very clear that when you Start Over, there isn't any way to fast-forward past the current point on the show being broadcast. That is only to be expected.

The thing that is irritating is that you can't fast-forward a program after Starting Over, even if you are well behind the real-time program. So, it's not even as good as a buffer. It forces you to watch the commercials whether you are behind live tv or not.

Well, it sounds like its not even a buffer.

It's very clear that when you Start Over, there isn't any way to fast-forward past the current point on the show being broadcast. That is only to be expected.

The thing that is irritating is that you can't fast-forward a program after Starting Over, even if you are well behind the real-time program. So, it's not even as good as a buffer. It forces you to watch the commercials whether you are behind live tv or not.

I think that is part of the bargain that TWC struck with the networks. Because "start over" is /techincally/ TWC *rebroadcasting* the show (I think it's being implemented more like an "on demand" stream, not as a buffer -- it certainly didn't exist on your DVR before you tuned the channel!), which they're not allowed to do, the bargain that they made with the networks is that they will FORCE you to watch the commercials if you want to use it.

I def. recall lawsuits against TWC over this that prevented them from implementing "start over" a long time ago.

Well, it sounds like its not even a buffer.

It's very clear that when you Start Over, there isn't any way to fast-forward past the current point on the show being broadcast. That is only to be expected.

The thing that is irritating is that you can't fast-forward a program after Starting Over, even if you are well behind the real-time program. So, it's not even as good as a buffer. It forces you to watch the commercials whether you are behind live tv or not.

A few years ago I encountered a weird problem while fast forwarding recorded content on an 8300HD; it would only work during programs, not during commercials.

If you hit the FF button during a commercial, it would just bring you back to the beginning. Unbelievably annoying and obviously by design, and only on selected network programs.

I’m certain they were experimenting with something that would preclude users form FF’ing through commercials, but damn if I could get anyone at TWC to talk about it.

A_C

A few years ago I encountered a weird problem while fast forwarding recorded content on an 8300HD; it would only work during programs, not during commercials.

If you hit the FF button during a commercial, it would just bring you back to the beginning. Unbelievably annoying and obviously by design, and only on selected network programs.

I’m certain they were experimenting with something that would preclude users form FF’ing through commercials, but damn if I could get anyone at TWC to talk about it.

A_C

u cant bc cust. service dont know whats going on, just like when i told them why did they take off cbs college sports hd on the guide they told me 1st it was never there, when it was and should still be, then they said o bc your not suppose to get it when i am since i get the sd channel of it, and i have the hdextra which you get the sports tier with it..they dont know crap. and think they are rite .and even channels u dont get will still be on the guide..need a tech # .

Can anyone in Manhattan confirm that they received the additional channel positions for the premium channels that TWC posted below on their website?

Effective November 19th: In Manhattan: We will add additional channel positions for the following premium services: HBO HD will now appear only on 780 and 651, Cinemax HD on 776 and 658, Starz HD on 777 and 676, and Showtime HD will now appear on 779 and 666. [/I]

Don't call me skeptical but I would be extremely surprised if we (Northern Manhattan) were to get anywhere near the 60 plus something channels they promise to launch on December 17th. I got this very strange feeling that just before the 17th of December the announcement will mysteriously disappear like so many others have in the past. I'll believe it when I see it and even after that I'll still need to see it again.

Uh, Harlem is hardly in Southern Manhattan!

I'm directionally challenged. Isn't 'Northern Manhattan' from 79th St. all the way downtown (midtown, Wall St., the Village, etc.) and 'Southern Manhattan' from 79th all the way uptown (Harlem, Washington Heights, etc.)? :confused:

Can anyone in Manhattan confirm that they received the additional channel positions for the premium channels that TWC posted below on their website?

Effective November 19th: In Manhattan: We will add additional channel positions for the following premium services: HBO HD will now appear only on 780 and 651, Cinemax HD on 776 and 658, Starz HD on 777 and 676, and Showtime HD will now appear on 779 and 666/

Nothing here! :(

Can anyone in Manhattan confirm that they received the additional channel positions for the premium channels that TWC posted below on their website?

Effective November 19th: In Manhattan: We will add additional channel positions for the following premium services: HBO HD will now appear only on 780 and 651, Cinemax HD on 776 and 658, Starz HD on 777 and 676, and Showtime HD will now appear on 779 and 666. [/I]

Don't call me skeptical but I would be extremely surprised if we (Northern Manhattan) were to get anywhere near the 60 plus something channels they promise to launch on December 17th. I got this very strange feeling that just before the 17th of December the announcement will mysteriously disappear like so many others have in the past. I'll believe it when I see it and even after that I'll still need to see it again.

no they haven't dont this yet - but that has no effect on adding new channels (its just a simple remapping)

The fact that they have removed 40+ analog channels is the good sign that we are getting the new HD. "like so many others in the past"?? I don't recall them announcing more HD channels for Manhattan and taking it back

I'm directionally challenged. Isn't 'Northern Manhattan' from 79th St. all the way downtown (midtown, Wall St., the Village, etc.) and 'Southern Manhattan' from 79th all the way uptown (Harlem, Washington Heights, etc.)? :confused:
(

Um.....

Just think about it.... from 79th st 'DOWN'town... you think thats North?

While harlem and 'UP'town are South?

u cant bc cust. service dont know whats going on, just like when i told them why did they take off cbs college sports hd on the guide they told me 1st it was never there, when it was and should still be, then they said o bc your not suppose to get it when i am since i get the sd channel of it, and i have the hdextra which you get the sports tier with it..they dont know crap. and think they are rite .and even channels u dont get will still be on the guide..need a tech # .


Could you possibly re-post this in English???

A_C

Just think about it.... from 79th st 'DOWN'town... you think thats North?

While harlem and 'UP'town are South?

I honestly have no idea. I've been living in NYC since '96 but never really gotten to know things like that. I just get on the MTA subway line or bus and get to where I'm going. So, is Harlem in Northern Manhattan then and about to get a ton of new HD channels? :)

I honestly have no idea. I've been living in NYC since '96 [...] September 6th? 96min ago?

I honestly have no idea. I've been living in NYC since '96 but never really gotten to know things like that. I just get on the MTA subway line or bus and get to where I'm going. So, is Harlem in Northern Manhattan then and about to get a ton of new HD channels? :)

Ouch!!!!
You need a compass ASAP!!!!
Have you not noticed that the numbered streets are labeled East and West, ie. East 110th Street and West 110th Street? Any address on a number street east of 5th Ave will be East, and anything west will be west, and the building numbers will start at 5th Ave and increase as you go east/west. For example, 1 East 110th Street and 1 West 110th street will probably be across 5th Ave. The higher the number the farther away you are from 5th Ave. Uptown is North, Downtown is South, East side is east, and West side is west. Any other NY things you have't figured out? Will be happy to tell you about.

dad,

north is uptown, south is downtown.

btw, im getting the start over this in brooklyn. i havent gone through all the channels, but sho2hd has it and ny1.

MOJO-HD is now on channel 76 on my 8300HDC mystro and still on 796 on my 8300HD passport

So when will they start removing analog channels south of manhattan

MOJO-HD is now on channel 76 on my 8300HDC mystro and still on 796 on my 8300HD passport

I have MOJO on 76 on 8300HDDC not on 796:confused:

Anyone having outages on 768(Planet Green HD) in Queens?

Anyone having outages on 768(Planet Green HD) in Queens?

Yea, it's out in Flushing.

when it comes to twc, can you say that what happens in queens also happens in brooklyn?

768 is out in brooklyn.

btw, show2 had serious lip sync issues yesterday.

i thought both were caused by me changing to an amp.

It can't be out in Flushing because Time Warner Cable has no outage.

I called them up to report this and they insisted on going through the same procedure. I have access to three boxes that are all independently wired back to the tap outside the building and it was out on all. Yet they send their signal, order me to reset the box, and they believe this will solve all problems.

Then, they insist on scheduling a technician for Dec. 1 to look at my wires.

I told them I doubted it was my wiring, as three independent wires would have to be out, and that implies a problem outside of my realm, but they explained that if their computer doesn't say there is an outage, there is no outage. They can't explain to me how their computer knows there is an outage if they don't take my report seriously.

This is what annoys me about Time Warner, and in fact many companies. I'd pay extra money to deal with a company that when I tell them I have a problem, they believe me and not their computer. And they know how to take actions to fix it.

It can't be out in Flushing because Time Warner Cable has no outage.

I called them up to report this and they insisted on going through the same procedure. I have access to three boxes that are all independently wired back to the tap outside the building and it was out on all. Yet they send their signal, order me to reset the box, and they believe this will solve all problems.

Then, they insist on scheduling a technician for Dec. 1 to look at my wires.

I told them I doubted it was my wiring, as three independent wires would have to be out, and that implies a problem outside of my realm, but they explained that if their computer doesn't say there is an outage, there is no outage. They can't explain to me how their computer knows there is an outage if they don't take my report seriously.

This is what annoys me about Time Warner, and in fact many companies. I'd pay extra money to deal with a company that when I tell them I have a problem, they believe me and not their computer. And they know how to take actions to fix it.


But keep this in mind. If you're already on AVS, then chances are you are way above average as compared to normal people. After all, we are plastering the air waves about what's going to happen on Feb 09 in the US of A! So the first line tech has no choice because they have no knowledge of the system beyond their script, and the vast majority of the people don't know a Passport from Sara from Mystro. What can you do?

One reason why I hate calling into tech support. Once I had to call Dell because I had some HW issues that needed to be RMA'ed. But luckily, I was shuffled up to level 3 support rather quickly. The guy had me go through debug to erase the controllers FW (to completely nuke the HD). Being familiar with (MS-DOS) debug we went through the 5 or so lines rather quickly. The guy said "wow....that's the fastest debug I've ever ran through over the phone...you must be technical" Oh well, like I said, the VAST majority of the people who call tech support really really really don't have too much of a clue about their gear.

Well, telling them it is out on all three TVs and they are all independently wired to the outside tap should indicate the problem is unlikely to be inside. That's common sense, not technical.

Well, telling them it is out on all three TVs and they are all independently wired to the outside tap should indicate the problem is unlikely to be inside. That's common sense, not technical.

I hear you. For all I know, they don't even know how to wire the cables. They may not even know what three independent run means. I'm not trying to defend them, just trying to explain why technical support is so lacking. It is frustrating though. I will give you that.

Well, I suppose I'm just venting my frustration. I'll try to look on the bright side. They'll owe me compensation by their own admission when this is done, which means:

- If they actually show up and waste my time --- a free month of service.

- If it resolves itself, another month of a premium cable package I wouldn't pay for.

Well, telling them it is out on all three TVs and they are all independently wired to the outside tap should indicate the problem is unlikely to be inside. That's common sense, not technical.

Something 99 percent of the Reps lack. I have been through the same situation more then once telling them I am calling to get the report process started. I believe they wait until calls start coming in from the area that's down this way they know if it's multiple blocks or buildings or just your Building. Which sounds like the right thing to do, but if you tell them listen I have 4 boxes and my neighbor is out they insist on sending a tech. I have had to insist no service call is needed, just calling to get the ball rolling, "what do you mean you need a technician to fix your problem"

I have had MOJO consistently on 796 since the supposed drop dead date
(3rd Ave & E 30th)

I have had MOJO consistently on 796 since the supposed drop dead date
(3rd Ave & E 30th)

seems most people lost it early that morning for about 12-18 hours... and got it back that night....

At least they figured out that they might as well let it run its course since they aren't replacing it for another few weeks

Looks like my SA 8300HD has died! :(

First it said "problem with HD", than it wouldn't boot - went through a long countdown and now says FAIL.

Do I have a choice of boxes when I bring it back to TW tomorrow? What should I try to get? Will my eSATA drive work with a new box?

TIA,

Looks like my SA 8300HD has died! :(

First it said "problem with HD", than it wouldn't boot - went through a long countdown and now says FAIL.

Do I have a choice of boxes when I bring it back to TW tomorrow? What should I try to get? Will my eSATA drive work with a new box?

TIA,Try and get the same one-- 8300HD-- not the HDC version-- insist on it. (IMO)
By the way, which TW center will you go to?

Try and get the same one-- 8300HD-- not the HDC version-- insist on it. (IMO)
By the way, which TW center will you go to?

I thought they weren't giving out 8300HD any more? I'll be going to E. 23rd Street. What if they will only give me an HDC box? What will be different?

I thought they weren't giving out 8300HD any more? I'll be going to E. 23rd Street. What if they will only give me an HDC box? What will be different?

I got an 8300HD from 23rd Street about a month ago. It was clearly used, but I was still happy to get it! If you ask nicely perhaps they can look through the stack or go in the back to find one for you.

I got an 8300HD from 23rd Street about a month ago. It was clearly used, but I was still happy to get it! If you ask nicely perhaps they can look through the stack or go in the back to find one for you.

I'll give it a shot - thanks!

If I can't get one, what can i expect from an 8300HDC? Will it work with my eSATA drive? What are disadvantages of HDC boxes?

I'll give it a shot - thanks!

If I can't get one, what can i expect from an 8300HDC? Will it work with my eSATA drive? What are disadvantages of HDC boxes?

Just a note on the external drive - it will work - but you will be starting from scratch. The shows you may have saved are only viewable on one box - it will force you to reformat the drive if you want to use it on a new box (8300HD or 8300HDC)

Just a note on the external drive - it will work - but you will be starting from scratch. The shows you may have saved are only viewable on one box - it will force you to reformat the drive if you want to use it on a new box (8300HD or 8300HDC)

Great! :rolleyes: So If the 8300HD drive fails - everything on all drives is toast. Good system.:(

What else do you know about 8300HDC and Navigator?

Guess I'm sticking to my HD box. Anyone have an idea if they are planning on debuting a larger hard drive on a completely new box sometime soon?

Someone in another thread mentioned a Samsung 3090... it sure LOOKS like it's has all the stuff we'd want. I know they are giving out Sammy non DVRs, so the question of the hour is what about the Sammy 3090 DVR in our market?

Keep in mind that we ARE talking about a company that seems to be 10% clueless about developing software... and the best hardware money can buy can be made crap by crap software!

I thought they weren't giving out 8300HD any more? I'll be going to E. 23rd Street. What if they will only give me an HDC box? What will be different?

Do us a favor if you will... ask them about the Samsung 3090 DVR. Try and get some "how comes" in if they say they don't have them. Say you know people who have Samsung boxes in Manhattan (kinda true, my aunt has one that I've laid my hands on!) I've glanced at the tech specs and am impressed... I know they are deploying Samsung boxes, but have yet to hear about a Sammie DVR in Manhattan (or NYC for that matter).

Just a note on the external drive - it will work - but you will be starting from scratch. The shows you may have saved are only viewable on one box - it will force you to reformat the drive if you want to use it on a new box (8300HD or 8300HDC)

Here's an idea for you:
Since the box is seemingly toast. If you're a bit adventurous/technical and you want to save the data that's on your external drive -- open the DVR up, pull out the internal hard drive which is likely fried (which is probably why the DVR is failing), replace it with a similar model (maybe even a little bigger), and your DVR should format it and continue to work properly with your external ESata drive.

And report back to us whether it worked or not! :)

Scott

I thought they weren't giving out 8300HD any more? I'll be going to E. 23rd Street. What if they will only give me an HDC box? What will be different?You will have HD Video On Demand with movies averaging about $5 each—go with blu ray and Netflix / blockbuster etc. It will be cheaper and look and sound better.

You will also have HD Showcase On Demand—so far, it’s a waste of time, unless you are into Gene Simmons reality show.:rolleyes:

You will have on screen caller ID, if you subscribe to TW phone system. This is an obnoxious gimmick.

Those were the positives. The negatives, discussed here many times and on other threads, are...

You will lose the ability to swap tuners while maintaining working buffers-- to rewind or fast forward on both tuners.

You will lose the time stamp indicating where you are in a show. This is more important than many might realize.

The search ability is inferior to the old style.

There are unexplainable (by me) quirks that occur at random. Things like extended recording not working or trying to watch a recorded program while it’s recording and not having the “play” function option come up on the screen. :confused::rolleyes: Also, many times the buffer just doesn't work at all-- even when not swapping tuners.

In addition, all functions are slower, almost delayed.

Try and get a 8300HD.;)

You will have HD Video On Demand with movies averaging about $5 each—go with blu ray and Netflix / blockbuster etc. It will be cheaper and look and sound better.

You will also have HD Showcase On Demand—so far, it’s a waste of time, unless you are into Gene Simmons reality show.:rolleyes:

You will have on screen caller ID, if you subscribe to TW phone system. This is an obnoxious gimmick.

Those were the positives. The negatives, discussed here many times and on other threads, are...

You will lose the ability to swap tuners while maintaining working buffers-- to rewind or fast forward on both tuners.

You will lose the time stamp indicating where you are in a show. This is more important than many might realize.

The search ability is inferior to the old style.

There are unexplainable (by me) quirks that occur at random. Things like extended recording not working or trying to watch a recorded program while it’s recording and not having the “play” function option come up on the screen. :confused::rolleyes: Also, many times the buffer just doesn't work at all-- even when not swapping tuners.

In addition, all functions are slower, almost delayed.

Try and get a 8300HD.;)

I do want HD VOD - is that available now? When you stop a show, it won't remember the stop point? Terrible.

I might try the new box - than get a Tivo HD if it really sucks.

Can anyone point me to eSATA connection instructions - I forgot how I did it a few years ago.

Thanks...

Those were the positives. The negatives, discussed here many times and on other threads, are...

You will lose the ability to swap tuners while maintaining working buffers-- to rewind or fast forward on both tuners.

You will lose the time stamp indicating where you are in a show. This is more important than many might realize.

The search ability is inferior to the old style.

There are unexplainable (by me) quirks that occur at random. Things like extended recording not working or trying to watch a recorded program while it’s recording and not having the “play” function option come up on the screen. :confused::rolleyes: Also, many times the buffer just doesn't work at all-- even when not swapping tuners.

In addition, all functions are slower, almost delayed.

Try and get a 8300HD.;)
Also, let's not forget -- you lose the ability to set the DVR to do a "timed recording" -- i.e. "record channel 713 from 6:10pm to 8:20pm". You will only be able to select an entire program to record or not.

Just got back from TWC on E. 23rd St. - they had 8300HD box so I got it!:)

I can live without the on-screen caller ID, and the problems with HDC boxes.

But, will I be able to get HD VOD movies with the older box? This is something I have been waiting for...

Thanks,

I do want HD VOD - is that available now? When you stop a show, it won't remember the stop point? Terrible.

I might try the new box - than get a Tivo HD if it really sucks. If you want the VOD HD then you will need the HDC box. I haven’t watched any VOD but I can’t imagine not being able to pause or fast forward. I was referring to watching regular TV and losing the ability to FF or RR when swapping tuners.

Also, let's not forget -- you lose the ability to set the DVR to do a "timed recording" -- i.e. "record channel 713 from 6:10pm to 8:20pm". You will only be able to select an entire program to record or not.
Yes-- this is lacking too on the HDC and is a very important feature.

If you want the VOD HD then you will need the HDC box. I haven’t watched any VOD but I can’t imagine not being able to pause or fast forward. I was referring to watching regular TV and losing the ability to FF or RR when swapping tuners.

Since I use an eSATA drive I don't have that feature anyway - no big deal, just press record. Does TWC have HD VOD movies now? Where are they on the guide - or are they only available on HDC guide?

.. or are they only available on HDC guide?Correct, they are only on the HDC guide, which is very different from the older Passport style.

I mentioned in another post—I don’t care for it because the information is scarce – no actors names or director. This is a pain when you search for a movie to watch and the title doesn’t ring a bell but if you saw the actors names—you might remember it.

Regardless, it sounds like you are itching for this HDC box. You should go back, add one on to your system, bring it home and check it out. Compare the two. This way, if you don’t like it, at least you’ll still have the 8300HD box.

If I got into the habit of watching HDVOD movies my monthly bill would be hitting $400. That’s crazy :eek:. It’s cheaper, in the long run, to buy a Blu-ray and sign up for a service.

Correct, they are only on the HDC guide, which is very different from the older Passport style.

I mentioned in another post—I don’t care for it because the information is scarce – no actors names or director. This is a pain when you search for a movie to watch and the title doesn’t ring a bell but if you saw the actors names—you might remember it.

Regardless, it sounds like you are itching for this HDC box. You should go back, add one on to your system, bring it home and check it out. Compare the two. This way, if you don’t like it, at least you’ll still have the 8300HD box.

If I got into the habit of watching HDVOD movies my monthly bill would be hitting $400. That’s crazy :eek:. It’s cheaper, in the long run, to buy a Blu-ray and sign up for a service.

Not really itching to get new box, except I'd like the option of an occasional HD VOD movie. What about the idea of Tivo HD with cablecards - no VOD? Most important is a box that is reliable, and the 8300HD has worked very well for the past two years.

I'll have to check out FIOS when it arrives in my area as well.

What about the Samsung SMT-H3090. That box is replacing the 8300HDC. It's much nicer looking. It also has better specs than the 8300HDC. If you have an 8300HD then you might want to consider the SMT-H3090. HDVOD might happen on the non HDC boxes. TWC will probably have to deploy MDN in NYC.

What about the Samsung SMT-H3090. That box is replacing the 8300HDC. It's much nicer looking. It also has better specs than the 8300HDC. If you have an 8300HD then you might want to consider the SMT-H3090. HDVOD might happen on the non HDC boxes. TWC will probably have to deploy MDN in NYC.

What's MDN?

MDN is Mystro Digital Navigator. It's basically a version of the HDC box software for non HDC boxes. Any box that doesn't have a cablecard uses it. MDN is faster but has some missing features. MDN has recieved a facelift which makes it look nicer. ODN is what the HDC boxes run. ODN is OCAP Digital Navigator. TWC has plans to use ODN for tru2way devices. ODN will run on any OCAP/tru2way box. ODN can run on a Tru2way TV as well thus eliminating the box. Navigator is getting there. The guide data on the newer versions of navigator has improved quite a lot. Now the guide data is more like Passport.

... The guide data on the newer versions of navigator has improved quite a lot. Now the guide data is more like Passport. :confused: More like Passport? I hate to see what it looked like before if this is more like Passport. It still has a ways to go.:rolleyes:

Also, let's not forget -- you lose the ability to set the DVR to do a "timed recording" -- i.e. "record channel 713 from 6:10pm to 8:20pm". You will only be able to select an entire program to record or not.


Well, you can "sorta/kinda" get around this. You do have the option of STARTING a recording 1-15 later. And you can end 1-15, 30, 1hr, 2hr after the scheduled time. There is no manual recording setup like the Passport, but so far, the 8300HDC/ODN box is doing fine. One thing you do get with certain channels is "press select to start over" option. So if you change the channel to one that supports it, you have the option of starting the show over.

The only catch (I'm told) is that you can't fast forward through the commercials.

So this is like an automatic buffering of shows.

So far, I don't have complaints switching the box out (Passport 8300DVR to ODN 8300HDC dvr)

What about the Samsung SMT-H3090. That box is replacing the 8300HDC. It's much nicer looking. It also has better specs than the 8300HDC. If you have an 8300HD then you might want to consider the SMT-H3090. HDVOD might happen on the non HDC boxes. TWC will probably have to deploy MDN in NYC.

Exactly how can we "consider" the Samsung box? I know they are deploying a Samsung box for non-DVR, but has ANYONE gotten a 3090 DVR?

I AM happy to hear that some seem to be able to get HD boxes... but if we had several guys who post here having the Sammie, the better to judge what issues are ODN related and which are hardware driven.

BTW, excellent post about the DNs... it should be a frakking sticky!

The only catch (I'm told) is that you can't fast forward through the commercials.

So this is like an automatic buffering of shows.

So far, I don't have complaints switching the box out (Passport 8300DVR to ODN 8300HDC dvr)

You may call that a "catch" but a lot of us find it a HUGE decrease in the functionality we've been used to for years.

Great! :rolleyes: So If the 8300HD drive fails - everything on all drives is toast. Good system.:(

What else do you know about 8300HDC and Navigator?

All hard drives fail it is not a matter of if, it is when will it fail? Nothing to do with the cable box. I work with computers it is inevitable that a hard drive will fail at some point. It is too bad there is no way to back up the data.

Hi. I have a few quick questions:

What's the story with Food-HD (750)? It is out alot, but the SD channel works.

Does "Start Again" work on the SA 8300HD box or does it only work on non-DVR? I have never seen it and I've rebooted the box.

Does the SA 8300HD box support an external drive?

TIA & Happy Thanksgiving.....JL

In addition, from time to time we make certain changes in the services that we offer in order to better serve our customers.

In addition to the previously announced changes for December 8th, the programmer will no longer offer Versus/Golf HD as a shared service on ch. 794. Versus HD will remain on ch. 794 and, as previously announced, Golf HD will launch on ch. 779 in Northern Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and Mount Vernon, on December 17th.

In Woodside, Elmhurst, and Maspeth, the following previously announced changes slated to occur on December 17th throughout Queens, have been postponed until December 22nd: the launch of Crossings TV on channel 503 for digital tier customers; Discovery Familia on 870, Cine Mexicano on 871, TV Colombia on 872, Latele Novela on 873 for DTV en Español customers; NBA TV HD on 461 to HD Xtra customers and TEAM HD on 411 to NBA League Pass customers, The launch of Korean Christian Television on ch. 533, Crime and Investigation HD on 686, Africa Channel HD on 787, TV One HD on 790, G4HD on 692, MGM HD on 796, Style HD on 689, Fuse HD on 691, Nick HD on 706, Lifetime HD on 712, CNBC HD on 715, USA HD on 716, SciFi HD on 717, Bravo HD on 718, E! HD on 724, QVC HD on 733, Spike HD on 736, and HSN HD on 739.

On December 22nd in the following areas of Brooklyn and Queens some of our channel positions will change for customers with cable ready TVs and TVs directly connected to cable (“direct hookups”). Specifically, in Woodside, Elmhurst, and Maspeth WCBS will move from ch. 2 to ch. 12, WNBC from 4 to 14, WNYW from 5 to 15, WLIW from 21 to 69, WABC from 7 to 17, WPXN from 8 to 56, WWOR (My 9) from 9 to 20, WXTV from 10 to 59, WPIX (CW 11) from 11 to 21, WNJU from 12 to 60, WNET from 13 to 23, ShopNBC from 34 to 45, SpikeTV from 35 to 37, QPTV34 from 58 to 2, QPTV35 from 59 to 4, QPTV56 from 60 to 9, QPTV57 from 61 to 19, WLNY from 62 to 11, TBS from 63 to 18, WFUT from 64 to 68, QVC from 65 to 57, WNYE from 66 to 10, TV Food from 67 to 78, TV Guide from 68 to 63, WMBC from 69 to 16, and CSPAN from 70 to 54. In Jamaica, Kissena, Ozone Park, Queens Village, Red Hook, Sunset, and Utopia WMBC will move from ch. 99 to 16.

Effective January 1, 2009: We will launch MLB Network on ch. 174, as a digital service and MLB Network HD on ch. 783. On this date, CaribeVision (ch. 804) will now be referred to as CV Networks.

The previously announced launch of Sleuth HD and Chiller HD, slated for December 17th in Northern Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens, has been postponed. The launch of My Life on Demand has also been postponed.

Bastards.....still no word of anything for southern manhattan!

Bastards.....still no word of anything for southern manhattan!

you wont see any announcement until they start removing analog channels....

Effective January 1, 2009: We will launch MLB Network on ch. 174, as a digital service and MLB Network HD on ch. 783. On this date, CaribeVision (ch. 804) will now be referred to as CV Networks.

The previously announced launch of Sleuth HD and Chiller HD, slated for December 17th in Northern Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens, has been postponed. The launch of My Life on Demand has also been postponed.

so it looks like we're good to go with those "tentative" announced additions from before (except for Sleuth and Chiller)

Hooray for the NBC-Universal Channels.

Hooray for 100+ HD Channels!

(sorry Southern Manhattan)

In Woodside, Elmhurst, and Maspeth, the following previously announced changes slated to occur on December 17th throughout Queens, have been postponed until December 22nd: the launch of Crossings TV on channel 503 for digital tier customers; Discovery Familia on 870, Cine Mexicano on 871, TV Colombia on 872, Latele Novela on 873 for DTV en Español customers; NBA TV HD on 461 to HD Xtra customers and TEAM HD on 411 to NBA League Pass customers, The launch of Korean Christian Television on ch. 533, Crime and Investigation HD on 686, Africa Channel HD on 787, TV One HD on 790, G4HD on 692, MGM HD on 796, Style HD on 689, Fuse HD on 691, Nick HD on 706, Lifetime HD on 712, CNBC HD on 715, USA HD on 716, SciFi HD on 717, Bravo HD on 718, E! HD on 724, QVC HD on 733, Spike HD on 736, and HSN HD on 739.

On December 22nd in the following areas of Brooklyn and Queens some of our channel positions will change for customers with cable ready TVs and TVs directly connected to cable (“direct hookups”). Specifically, in Woodside, Elmhurst, and Maspeth WCBS will move from ch. 2 to ch. 12, WNBC from 4 to 14, WNYW from 5 to 15, WLIW from 21 to 69, WABC from 7 to 17, WPXN from 8 to 56, WWOR (My 9) from 9 to 20, WXTV from 10 to 59, WPIX (CW 11) from 11 to 21, WNJU from 12 to 60, WNET from 13 to 23, ShopNBC from 34 to 45, SpikeTV from 35 to 37, QPTV34 from 58 to 2, QPTV35 from 59 to 4, QPTV56 from 60 to 9, QPTV57 from 61 to 19, WLNY from 62 to 11, TBS from 63 to 18, WFUT from 64 to 68, QVC from 65 to 57, WNYE from 66 to 10, TV Food from 67 to 78, TV Guide from 68 to 63, WMBC from 69 to 16, and CSPAN from 70 to 54. In Jamaica, Kissena, Ozone Park, Queens Village, Red Hook, Sunset, and Utopia WMBC will move from ch. 99 to 16.

Sorry Queens... looks like you gotta wait 5 more days...

(and wow - they're having a lot of fun reorganizing the remaining analog channels - I'm sure thats going to drive people nuts.

Bastards.....still no word of anything for southern manhattan!

Let's see, you guys got IP connectivity 2 years before we got it... so start waiting until Dec. 2010. Then again, you may get them sooner than we got what you got first... but even so, the fair thing would be to make you wait what we waited for.. 2 years<g>!

Does it concern anyone how they omitted any reference to the 60 plus HD channels they are suppose to launch on December 17th for Northern Manhattan?

Does it concern anyone how they omitted any reference to the 60 plus HD channels they are suppose to launch on December 17th for Northern Manhattan?

not really...

they have a habit doing that lately.

also, since they made mention of 'previous updates now postponed" - if there was a problem with northern manhattan - they would've said so

As someone in Bayside, Queens, how do I interpret the amendment?

"In Woodside, Elmhurst, and Maspeth, the following previously announced changes slated to occur on December 17th throughout Queens, have been postponed until December 22nd"

Does that mean:

A. Only Woodside, Elmhurst, and Maspeth will be delayed, and I should still check on the 17th?
B. Only Woodside, Elmhurst, and Maspeth will be getting these stations on 12/22 and I'm out of luck until further notice?

Looking at the repositioning of analog channels for Woodside, Elmhurst and Maspeth, that is where my analog service already is, with CBS on 12, etc. Maybe they are launching on 12/17 in the rest of Queens and Brooklyn, but delaying the rest 5 days to reorganize channel lineups in the other half of Queens to match.

Thoughts? I suppose I'll just check the TV on 12/17 and see what I find either way.

It also occurs to me, for the N. Manhattan people, like parts of Queens not Woodside, Maspeth, and Elmhurst, it does not say you will not be getting the upgrade that day, just that those parts of Queens will not.

We cannot necessarily assume a lack of information to the positive confirms the negative.

note that they made the Golf/Versus HD split clearer than before and still mentioned Northern Manhattan there.

also the last line postponing Chiller and Sleuth HD.

they are just very clueless when it comes to making these updates- they seem to think the previous announcement is still available to see.

They've done this before.... almost any time they mean to 'take something away' - they'll say 'the previously announced update has been postponed'.


(I'm also happy to see that in the big list of "Channels that may be removed at any time" - no NBC Universal channels are listed anymore.... thats a 99% sure sign that they reached a deal.)

Hi. I have a few quick questions:

What's the story with Food-HD (750)? It is out alot, but the SD channel works.Never had a problem in Queens and I do check it out.

Does "Start Again" work on the SA 8300HD box or does it only work on non-DVR? I have never seen it and I've rebooted the box. I'm pretty sure it only works with the 8300 HDC boxes.

Does the SA 8300HD box support an external drive?Many here have working external hard drives attached. Here is a link (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=516559)with more info.

TIA & Happy Thanksgiving.....JL
Happy Thanksgiving to you too and everyone!

You may call that a "catch" but a lot of us find it a HUGE decrease in the functionality we've been used to for years.


But you've never had this feature. So how can it be a decrease in functionality? I'm not talking about rewinding a tuner's buffer. I'm talking about going to a channel that you were *not* watching that allows you to start from beginning.

In Woodside, Elmhurst, and Maspeth, the following previously announced changes slated to occur on December 17th throughout Queens, have been postponed until December 22nd:

so brooklyn is still a go for the 17th?

so brooklyn is still a go for the 17th?

seems so

Isn't EVERY Ranger game supposed to be in HD? Not tonight!!:mad:

Isn't EVERY Ranger game supposed to be in HD? Not tonight!!:mad:

"Every game on MSG"

(they changed their promotion a while ago....)

Exactly how can we "consider" the Samsung box? I know they are deploying a Samsung box for non-DVR, but has ANYONE gotten a 3090 DVR?

I AM happy to hear that some seem to be able to get HD boxes... but if we had several guys who post here having the Sammie, the better to judge what issues are ODN related and which are hardware driven.

BTW, excellent post about the DNs... it should be a frakking sticky!

NYC is the only division that has this DVR. They must have finished testing. Other divisions are still testing it. It runs the same software as the 8300HDC. A tech in NYC said they just started deploying them. You must ask for it. It runs the same software as the 8300HDC but has much better components. It has a processor that is much faster than 8300HDC and more ram. This box was made for ODN from the ground up. The 8300HDC is a hack job. They took the 8300HD, added some more ram, cable card interface, and SA's Axiom OCAP middleware and there you have it an 8300HDC. The Samsung HD-DVR uses an alticast middleware. I too want one when it hits our division.

Check out the Time Warner Cable Navigator thread in the HD Recorders forum. It has some good information. MDN is getting better. It's slightly faster than an 8300HDC running ODN but it takes longer to get guide data. MDN also has problems with Closed Captioning but I don't use closed captioning anyways.

One more thing about MDN. Don't run it on an old pioneer or SA box. If you have an old Pioneer box running MDN, get rid of it. I actually ran MDN once on an old Pioneer box and it looked liked DOS. Also ODN got the same facelift as MDN. NYC has yet to deploy ODN 3.1.0_7 10/27/08. That version has the MDN style channel bar. The new version bricked eSATA support though.

All hard drives fail it is not a matter of if, it is when will it fail? Nothing to do with the cable box. I work with computers it is inevitable that a hard drive will fail at some point. It is too bad there is no way to back up the data.

I was referring to the fact that if the main drive on the box fails, all the data on the eSATA drive is toast as well. This is usually not the case with other computer systems.

I'm in Southern Manhattan. I have several TiVo Series 3 boxes with 2 CableCards installed in each box. I'm having an intermittent problem that I don't know how to fix. Periodically one or more of my boxes will lose the ability to tune certain channels. Sometimes the problem affects only one CableCard, sometimes both cards. Sometimes it affects only one unit, sometimes 2 or all three. What happens is that the unit(s) lose the ability to tune to certain channels. There is no discernible pattern as to which channels won't tune, but what is clear is that the problem is NOT that the CableCards are losing their ability to decrypt the signal because whenever there is a problem at least some encrypted channels still work and some that aren't supposed to be protected don't work. For example, today I'm getting all my SD channels including the premium channels, but I get nothing (black screen with a message saying "Channel not available, You man need CableCARD decoders to view this channel. Contact your calbe provider for more information.") on all of the HD equlvalents of the broadcast channels (i.e., 702, 704, 705, etc.) and on HBOHD and CinemaxHD. I get ShowtimeHD and StarzHD on the channels in the 700 range, but not on the same channel in the 600 range.

If I call TWC customer service, they are completely clueless and want to send a technician to my house. Of course, once the technician gets there, the problem has resolved itself and so he too is clueless as to what the problem was. This is really a problem, especially today as I have about 20 people coming over for turkey and HD football. Does anyone have any suggestions for either something I can do to resolve or troubleshoot the problem or else something I can say to TWC that they can figure out what is happening and fix it?

NYC is the only division that has this DVR. They must have finished testing. Other divisions are still testing it. It runs the same software as the 8300HDC. A tech in NYC said they just started deploying them. You must ask for it. It runs the same software as the 8300HDC but has much better components. It has a processor that is much faster than 8300HDC and more ram. This box was made for ODN from the ground up. The 8300HDC is a hack job. They took the 8300HD, added some more ram, cable card interface, and SA's Axiom OCAP middleware and there you have it an 8300HDC. The Samsung HD-DVR uses an alticast middleware. I too want one when it hits our division.

Check out the Time Warner Cable Navigator thread in the HD Recorders forum. It has some good information. MDN is getting better. It's slightly faster than an 8300HDC running ODN but it takes longer to get guide data. MDN also has problems with Closed Captioning but I don't use closed captioning anyways.

Ah, more good info, thanks! Frankly, I was very happy to hear that we won't get MDN forced on us for the big HD channel upgrade... AND I still have a lot of must watch content on my DVR that I really want to work through before the 17th (just in case).

Indeed, it seems the 8300HD has 64MB RAM, the 8300HDC 128 and the Sammie specs at 384. Of course, it also could be as deployed by TWC, it will only have 128. I also notice from the specs that RAM and internal drive are supposed to be upgradable... which TWC may very well prevent.

Same bottom line, we need one of the regulars around here to get it!

I get ShowtimeHD and StarzHD on the channels in the 700 range, but not on the same channel in the 600 range.

One of their announcements was that they would begin having SHO & Starz (and HBO) on some 600 series channels on 11/17. Seemed like they wanted to move all the premiums to 600 series channels, leaving them free to potentially match SD and HD channels in the last 2 digits.

However, that has not happened yet (just checked). So I don't think this issue is part of your other issues... wish I could address them, but I'm afraid the issue is that TWC always hated cable cards and now with Tru2Way on the horizon, they will pay even less attention to them.

But you've never had this feature. So how can it be a decrease in functionality? I'm not talking about rewinding a tuner's buffer. I'm talking about going to a channel that you were *not* watching that allows you to start from beginning.

Actually, we kinda did. I could tune into a channel, switch to the other tuner, and inside of an hour, switch to that other tuner, rewind and proceed WITH FF ability.

The point I was trying to make was that we would HAVE to go with the ODN equipped HDC box to get Start Over. Yet if I keep my Passport/HD box, I get something very, very close to that feature WITH the ability to skip through commercials.

Case in point... the late night talk shows. I'd swear there are as many commercials as actual content. Every waited for 7+ minutes from the last bit of content until the musical guest starts? All I need to do is make sure the DVR is set to the correct channel. With an ODN 8300HDC with bufferless tuners, I have to use Start Over AND sit through all the commercials.

Actually, we kinda did. I could tune into a channel, switch to the other tuner, and inside of an hour, switch to that other tuner, rewind and proceed WITH FF ability.

The point I was trying to make was that we would HAVE to go with the ODN equipped HDC box to get Start Over. Yet if I keep my Passport/HD box, I get something very, very close to that feature WITH the ability to skip through commercials.

Case in point... the late night talk shows. I'd swear there are as many commercials as actual content. Every waited for 7+ minutes from the last bit of content until the musical guest starts? All I need to do is make sure the DVR is set to the correct channel. With an ODN 8300HDC with bufferless tuners, I have to use Start Over AND sit through all the commercials.


I hear what you're saying. I too was concerned about turning in my Passport unit. I guess I expected the worst and it really wasn't too bad. But I would have to disagree about the "very very close" comment. If you plan out your viewing and remember to switch the tuner correctly, then you get the exact same behavior *plus* the ability to fast forward. But if you randomly switch around, Start From Beginning is a good option. Personally, I've used it rarely because I can't stand to watch commercials. But last night, I was able to "start over" on Palladia to watch Matchbox Twenty. That was pretty cool. I'm not sure it's worth not being able to FF but it's a nice feature to have (as a backup)

Hudson Valley

November 21, 2008

We are in the process of negotiating with WBNG, WTEN, WRGB and WBRE so that effective December 17th, or shortly thereafter, they will no longer be carried in analog format on the systems in our Hudson Valley region on which they are currently carried, but will remain available in the clear on the basic tier to customers with digital capable equipment or digital televisions with QAM tuners. However, if we are unable to reach an agreement for digital carriage, it is currently our intention to continue our carriage of these services until December 31st, or shortly thereafter, at which time we may discontinue our carriage of these services.

The launch of My Life on Demand has been postponed.

In addition to the previously announced changes for December 8th, the programmer will no longer offer Versus/Golf HD as a shared service on 773. Golf HD will remain on 773 and, as previously announced, Versus HD will launch on 781 on December 17th.

As previously indicated, we will cease carrying WYOU in Monticello, Port Jervis, and Tusten. This change will take place, effective December 15, 2008.

The following previously announced launches scheduled for December 17th, have been postponed: Crossing TV, Discovery Familia, Cine Mexicano, TV Colombia, Latele Novela, TEAM HD, Nick HD and Disney HD.

For customers with direct hookups only, the previously scheduled move of CSPAN from ch. 49 to ch. 57 has been cancelled.

Effective January 1, 2009: We will launch MLB Network on ch. 174, as a digital service. On this date, CaribeVision (ch. 804) will now be referred to as CV Networks

Ah, more good info, thanks! Frankly, I was very happy to hear that we won't get MDN forced on us for the big HD channel upgrade... AND I still have a lot of must watch content on my DVR that I really want to work through before the 17th (just in case).

Indeed, it seems the 8300HD has 64MB RAM, the 8300HDC 128 and the Sammie specs at 384. Of course, it also could be as deployed by TWC, it will only have 128. I also notice from the specs that RAM and internal drive are supposed to be upgradable... which TWC may very well prevent.

Same bottom line, we need one of the regulars around here to get it!

I still think it will have 384 MB of RAM. They will probably order it with 384 MB of RAM. It uses a middleware made by a Korean company instead of Axiom which is made in Europe. The 8300HDC order sheet says 128 MB of ram is the recommended amount of ram needed to run Axiom OCAP middleware. Samsung specifies 384 MB so they will use 384 MB of RAM. RAM isn't really upgradeable. They can order them with more memory and flash. Same with the HDD. It can't be upgraded but they can order it with more HDD space.

Does anyone with a SA8300HD/HDC normally view Channel 7 (in HD) news at Noon, 5pm, 6pm or 11pm? Only interested in the SA8300s.

If so, have you noticed any audio dropouts during the news when there is a graphic with no movement on the screen (this eliminates the morning newscasts as there is a ticker running across the bottom usually)?

Trying to determine a problem that may or may not be evident at WABC.

I still think it will have 384 MB of RAM. They will probably order it with 384 MB of RAM. It uses a middleware made by a Korean company instead of Axiom which is made in Europe. The 8300HDC order sheet says 128 MB of ram is the recommended amount of ram needed to run Axiom OCAP middleware. Samsung specifies 384 MB so they will use 384 MB of RAM. RAM isn't really upgradeable. They can order them with more memory and flash. Same with the HDD. It can't be upgraded but they can order it with more HDD space.

I think the spec sheet said the base OS was Linux... everyone says ODN is written in Java. SOUNDS like a proper software match.

Please correct me... but wouldn't one consider the JVM to be middleware (sitting between the base OS and the application)? Or maybe they need what amounts to a second middleware layer to run OCAP?

OR, does TWC put in some odd RTOS like I think they do with the SA boxes?

Does anyone with a SA8300HD/HDC normally view Channel 7 (in HD) news at Noon, 5pm, 6pm or 11pm? Only interested in the SA8300s.

If so, have you noticed any audio dropouts during the news when there is a graphic with no movement on the screen (this eliminates the morning newscasts as there is a ticker running across the bottom usually)?

Trying to determine a problem that may or may not be evident at WABC.

FWIW, I posted about what seemed to me to be an excessive number of that kind of audio drop-out glitch in the past month or so. One of the halllmarks was that there was a 100% chance you'd get the audio drop outs as credits were rolling and music was playing.

I think the spec sheet said the base OS was Linux... everyone says ODN is written in Java. SOUNDS like a proper software match.

Please correct me... but wouldn't one consider the JVM to be middleware (sitting between the base OS and the application)? Or maybe they need what amounts to a second middleware layer to run OCAP?

OR, does TWC put in some odd RTOS like I think they do with the SA boxes?

The Middleware translates the Java code into machine code. The linux distro must be some BCM compatible linux distro. The SMT-H3090 appears to use a BCM7405 which works with Linux or Windows. I have no idea which version of linux it runs. BCM is broadcom and their video chips do support it. PowerTV is owned by Cisco. Cisco bought SA a few years ago. They are still selling boxes with the Scientific Atlanta brand. The Cisco 85xx HD-DVR is the first SA DVR to be branded Cisco. TWC is probably not going to deploy this box since Samsung is their development partner. You can look up OCAP to see what I mean. The IPG is the app underneath the OCAP, stack, middleware, and so on.

I was referring to the fact that if the main drive on the box fails, all the data on the eSATA drive is toast as well. This is usually not the case with other computer systems.

This is not necessarily so. You can replace the internal drive (which is not SUPPOSED to be allowed -- TWC's contract doesn't allow you to mess with the internals of the DVR -- BUT whenever I've exchanged a BOX, including a DVR at the TWC center, I've NEVER seen anyone open it to see if any seals were broken or anything!) with a new one and while you'd lose the stuff on the internal drive, the stuff on your external drive SHOULD remain OK.

The external drives are keyed to work only with the box that you're using....but if you replace the internal hard drive there is no reason that the external drive would lose its data.

The external drives are keyed to work only with the box that you're using....but if you replace the internal hard drive there is no reason that the external drive would lose its data.

Unless for some reason the external boxes directory is kept cached on the internal drive (yeah, a REALLY dumb idea, but the software running these boxes ain't too bright). I would NOT be surprised if something akin to this WAS the case... even in Passport, there still are long ago dumb bugs that simply never ever get addressed... and that's the supposed "better" software!

Unless for some reason the external boxes directory is kept cached on the internal drive (yeah, a REALLY dumb idea, but the software running these boxes ain't too bright). I would NOT be surprised if something akin to this WAS the case... even in Passport, there still are long ago dumb bugs that simply never ever get addressed... and that's the supposed "better" software!

Not sure....so you might wind up with a bunch of "title unknown" programs on the external hard drive, but I THINK it would work. Luckily my internal hard drive hasn't crashed since I got my external (though it DID happen to me once BEFORE I'd gotten the external drive), so I haven't been able to test the theory.

So, if skanter1 feels like he wants to be our guinea pig, open the thing up, yank the internal drive, buy another one like it (same brand, similar size & model), put it in and see what happens. Just make sure you buy it from a place that has good return policy if it doesn't work out. ;)

I'm sure a drive of the size that's in the DVR would cost almost nothing these days so the risk is minimal.

Scott

This is not necessarily so. You can replace the internal drive (which is not SUPPOSED to be allowed -- TWC's contract doesn't allow you to mess with the internals of the DVR -- BUT whenever I've exchanged a BOX, including a DVR at the TWC center, I've NEVER seen anyone open it to see if any seals were broken or anything!) with a new one and while you'd lose the stuff on the internal drive, the stuff on your external drive SHOULD remain OK.

The external drives are keyed to work only with the box that you're using....but if you replace the internal hard drive there is no reason that the external drive would lose its data.

I would not take a chance opening up TWC's box, and risking paying hundreds if they discover that I did. Not worth it, IMHO, to save some TV programs.

Not sure....so you might wind up with a bunch of "title unknown" programs on the external hard drive, but I THINK it would work. Luckily my internal hard drive hasn't crashed since I got my external (though it DID happen to me once BEFORE I'd gotten the external drive), so I haven't been able to test the theory.

So, if skanter1 feels like he wants to be our guinea pig, open the thing up, yank the internal drive, buy another one like it (same brand, similar size & model), put it in and see what happens. Just make sure you buy it from a place that has good return policy if it doesn't work out. ;)

I'm sure a drive of the size that's in the DVR would cost almost nothing these days so the risk is minimal.

Scott

Too late - I already returned the SA8300HD and got another. Wasn't gonna do it anyway, for reasons in above post.

I realized, however, that, since I have a second TW box for use with old Tivo,
I could exchange it for free for a non-DVR HD box, and get HD VOD, not available on SA8300HD. What will they give me?

so it looks like we're good to go with those "tentative" announced additions from before (except for Sleuth and Chiller)

Hooray for the NBC-Universal Channels.

Hooray for 100+ HD Channels!

(sorry Southern Manhattan)

Do you know the number of HD channels we will have in Northern Manhattan when the new ones go live on 12/17? Will we really have 100+? By my count we have about 31 or so right now.

you wont see any announcement until they start removing analog channels....

I really think Time Warner is taking things for granted. They should prepare for the inevable that some customers are going to switch to FIOS when it's available in thier areas. That's why I still haven't commited to Time Warner's cheaper 2 year lock-up (A slight saving over TWC's current prices). I want to se if Time Warner is a serious player regarding cable service here in NYC (I live in SO Manhattan) and so far they haven't come close to being serious players.

Does anyone with a SA8300HD/HDC normally view Channel 7 (in HD) news at Noon, 5pm, 6pm or 11pm? Only interested in the SA8300s.

If so, have you noticed any audio dropouts during the news when there is a graphic with no movement on the screen (this eliminates the morning newscasts as there is a ticker running across the bottom usually)?

Trying to determine a problem that may or may not be evident at WABC.I have watched WABC in HD at 5 and 6 pm every day (except today which had football). I havent't noticed the dropouts you mentioned. However, I have had that type of dropout on HBO HD, HD Theater, and TNT HD many times during the (non-rolling) credits. I think it is a deficiency of the digital television system. I also get random audio dropouts on all channels. This may be caused by Time Warner, but I am inclined to associate it with the source.

Cynthia

I have watched WABC in HD at 5 and 6 pm every day (except today which had football). I havent't noticed the dropouts you mentioned. However, I have had that type of dropout on HBO HD, HD Theater, and TNT HD many times during the (non-rolling) credits. I think it is a deficiency of the digital television system. I also get random audio dropouts on all channels. This may be caused by Time Warner, but I am inclined to associate it with the source.

Cynthia

It seems that this problem is with Harris NetVX Encoders and the SA8300s only. HBO, HDTheater and TNT do not use these encoders. WABC went to a NetVX encoder not that long ago - and the symptom is usually with no movement on the screen during graphics.

FWIW, I posted about what seemed to me to be an excessive number of that kind of audio drop-out glitch in the past month or so. One of the halllmarks was that there was a 100% chance you'd get the audio drop outs as credits were rolling and music was playing.


If credits are actually "moving" on the screen, this would not fit the profile. If by "roll" you mean the chryon is showing credits but they are static in nature, that might be the synmptom.

Do you know the number of HD channels we will have in Northern Manhattan when the new ones go live on 12/17? Will we really have 100+? By my count we have about 31 or so right now.

I took the text from their website (apparently no longer there), worked some of my text cleaning magic and came up with a list of 70 new channels. Looks to me like that WILL hit the 100 mark!

Here's what I came up with:

A&E HD on 746
ABC Family HD on 738
Africa Channel HD on 787
Big Ten Network HD on 472
Biography HD on 763
Bravo HD on 718
Cartoon HD on 722
Chiller HD on 684
CNBC HD on 715
Crime and Investigation HD on 686
Discovery HD on 766
Disney HD on 749
E! HD on 724
ESPN News HD on 792
ESPN U HD on 793
Fox Business News HD on 743
Fox News HD on 744
Fuse HD on 691
FX HD on 737
G4HD on 692
Golf HD on 779
History HD on 740
HSN HD on 739.
Learning Channel HD on 752
Lifetime HD on 712
Lifetime Movie Network HD on 762
MGM HD on 796
Nick HD on 706
NY1 HD on 701
Outer Max HD on 665
Palladia HD on 720
Planet Green HD on 768
QVC HD on 733
Science Channel HD on 775
SciFi HD on 717
Showcase HD on 668
Sleuth HD on 685
Speed HD on 774
Spike HD on 736
Style HD on 689
Tennis HD on 465
Toon Disney HD on 760
Travel Channel HD on 788
TV One HD on 790
USA HD on 716
VS/Golf HD on 794 will change to VS HD.
Weather Channel HD on 772

More Max HD on 659
Action Max HD on 660
Thriller Max HD on 661
WMAX HD on 662
@MAX HD on 663
FiveStar Max on 664

HBO2 HD on 652
HBO Signature HD on 653
HBO Family HD on 654
HBO Comedy HD on 655
HBO Zone HD on 656
HBO Latino HD on 657

SHO 2 HD on 667
SHO Extreme HD on 669

TMC HD on 674
TMC Xtra HD on 675

Starz Edge HD on 677
Starz Kids & Family HD on 678
Starz Comedy HD on 681

Encore HD on 682

Game HD on 791 for MLB & NHL package customers
NBA TV HD on 461 to HD Xtra customers
NHL Network on 795 for Sports Tier and NHL package customers
TEAM HD on 411 to NBA League Pass customers

I really think Time Warner is taking things for granted. They should prepare for the inevable that some customers are going to switch to FIOS when it's available in thier areas. That's why I still haven't commited to Time Warner's cheaper 2 year lock-up (A slight saving over TWC's current prices). I want to se if Time Warner is a serious player regarding cable service here in NYC (I live in SO Manhattan) and so far they haven't come close to being serious players.

Well, I went the other way. The discount was from 107 to 95, I was assured they wouldn't hold me to the cancellation fee, they then added in the phone service for 5 bucks extra year one, 10 bucks year 2.

Part of my "argument" was that we in Manhattan got the 2 year discount AFTER 2 rate increases in 2008... the rest of the city had that available BEFORE the 2 rate increases in 08 (not to mention they had double and more HD channels than we did).

Plus, did you read the "guarantee" for FIOS deployment? They have until 2017. Still, no nabe even close to me is slated to get FIOS by this years end. Best guess is I may be able to get it by end 09 or early 10. Wish is close to my supposed 2 years. And if they hassle me about cancelling, I'm refusing.

Might anyone know off the top of their head if the following actually HAVE an HD channel (or have roll out plans)?

AMC
IFC
Sundance
TCM

Might anyone know off the top of their head if the following actually HAVE an HD channel (or have roll out plans)?

AMC
IFC
Sundance
TCM
AMC and IFC have HD channels. I have them on Cablevision.

Don't know about Sundance or TCM.

I have an 8300HD box and would like to attach an external drive. Could someone please tell me the type of drive I need to get and how to attach it?

I have an 8300HD box and would like to attach an external drive. Could someone please tell me the type of drive I need to get and how to attach it?
You will need an eSATA hard drive. Check out this thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=516559&page=1&pp=30) for a details on how it works, including a comprehensive database of drives that are known to work.

I took the text from their website (apparently no longer there), worked some of my text cleaning magic and came up with a list of 70 new channels. Looks to me like that WILL hit the 100 mark!

Here's what I came up with:

Game HD on 791 for MLB & NHL package customers
NBA TV HD on 461 to HD Xtra customers
NHL Network on 795 for Sports Tier and NHL package customers
TEAM HD on 411 to NBA League Pass customers

Thanks for that list...much easier to review that way.

Is Game HD basically going to show 1 out of market MLB or NHL game each night? That might get me to consider purchasing Center Ice...would have preferred to get more than 1 game each night, but it's a start.

GAME HD is the high-definition complement to the sports packages NHL Center Ice and MLB Extra Innings. This HD channel will be tied to the sports packages so if you subscribe to NHL Center Ice or MLB Extra Innings and have a Time Warner Cable HD set-top box, you will get this channel and its programming. Only select games in HD. Schedule TBD. <--anyone know where I can find the schedule?

All in all we're looking pretty good on 12/17. Any chance TWC will ever get the old Voom HD channels? When I'm at my parents (Cablevision) I often find myself watching Equator HD...would love to get that one added.

Here's the NYC lineup starting 12/17.
(Note - I should thank AndyHDTV - I used his last updated list and added to it)
Bklyn, Qns, S.I. & N. Man. - 102 HD channels (+3 'later')
S. Man. – (*) 31 HD channels (+1 on 1/1/09)

*350 PPV-HD
411 TEAM HD
461 NBATVHD
465 Tennis Channel-HD
467 CBS CS-HD
472 Big Ten Network-HD
*651/780 HBO-HD
652 HBO2-HD
653 HBO Family-HD
654 HBO Comedy-HD
655 HBO Signature-HD
656 HBO Zone-HD
657 HBO Latino-HD
*658/776 CINEMAX-HD
659 MoreMax-HD
660 ActionMAX-HD
661 5StarMAX-HD
662 ThrillerMAX-HD
663 WMAX-HD
664 @MAX-HD
665 OuterMAX-HD
*666/779 Showtime-HD
667 Showtime 2-HD
668 ShowCase-HD
669 ShowExtreme-HD
674 TMC-HD
675 TMCxtra-HD
*676/777 Starz-HD
677 Starz Edge-HD
678 Starz Kids & Family-HD
681 Starz Comedy-HD
682 Encore-HD
****684 Chiller HD**** Postponed to a later date
****685 Sleuth HD**** Postponed to a later date
686 Crime and Investigation HD
689 Style HD
691 Fuse-HD
692 G4HD
699 Showcase On Demand-HD
700 Movies On Demand-HD
701 NY1-HD
*702 CBS2-HD
*703 TNT-HD
*704 NBC4-HD
*705 FOX5-HD
706 Nick HD
*707 ABC7-HD
*708 TBS-HD
*709 MY9-HD
*710 CNN-HD
*711 CW11-HD
712 Lifetime HD
*713 PBS13-HD
715 CNBC HD
717 USA HD
717 SciFi HD
718 Bravo HD
720 Palladia HD
722 Cartoon Network-HD
724 E! HD
*726 SportsNet New York-HD
*727 MSG-HD
*728 ESPN-HD
*729 ESPN2-HD
733 QVC HD
*734 Universal-HD
736 Spike HD
737 FX-HD
738 ABC Family-HD
739 HSN HD
740 History Channel HD
743 Fox Business News HD
744 Fox News HD
746 A&E-HD
*748 MSG+-HD
749 Disney-HD
*750 Food Network-HD
752 The Learning Channel-HD
*753 YES-HD
760 Toon Disney-HD
762 Lifetime Movies-HD
763 Biography-HD
*764 HGTV-HD
*765 National Geographic-HD
766 Discovery-HD
*767 HD Theater
768 Planet Green-HD
772 Weather Channel-HD
774 Speed-HD
775 Science Channel HD
779 Golf HD
*783 MLB Network HD **** 1/1/09
*784 Hallmark Movie Channel-HD
*786 Animal Planet-HD
787 Africa Channel HD
788 Travel Channel-HD
790 TV One HD
791 GAME-HD
792 ESPNews-HD
793 ESPN U-HD
*794 Versus-HD
795 NHL-HD
796 MGM-HD
*797 HDNet Movies
*798 HDNet

Is Game HD basically going to show 1 out of market MLB or NHL game each night? That might get me to consider purchasing Center Ice...would have preferred to get more than 1 game each night, but it's a start.

GAME HD is the high-definition complement to the sports packages NHL Center Ice and MLB Extra Innings. This HD channel will be tied to the sports packages so if you subscribe to NHL Center Ice or MLB Extra Innings and have a Time Warner Cable HD set-top box, you will get this channel and its programming. Only select games in HD. Schedule TBD. <--anyone know where I can find the schedule?

All in all we're looking pretty good on 12/17. Any chance TWC will ever get the old Voom HD channels? When I'm at my parents (Cablevision) I often find myself watching Equator HD...would love to get that one added.

1) http://www.indemand.com/sports/nhl/nhl_hd_schedule.pdf (1-2 games a night - I think it avoids the exclusive national weekly Versus telecast)

2) Voom? don't get your hopes up.

IOW, pretty much NO NEW HD CHANNELS for S. Manhattan?

Any word when S. Manhattan gets more channels?

Here's the NYC lineup starting 12/17.
(Note - I should thank AndyHDTV - I used his last updated list and added to it)
Bklyn, Qns, S.I. & N. Man. - 102 HD channels (+3 'later')
S. Man. – (*) 31 HD channels (+1 on 1/1/09)

*350 PPV-HD
411 TEAM HD
461 NBATVHD
465 Tennis Channel-HD
467 CBS CS-HD
472 Big Ten Network-HD
*651/780 HBO-HD
652 HBO2-HD
653 HBO Family-HD
654 HBO Comedy-HD
655 HBO Signature-HD
656 HBO Zone-HD
657 HBO Latino-HD
*658/776 CINEMAX-HD
659 MoreMax-HD
660 ActionMAX-HD
661 5StarMAX-HD
662 ThrillerMAX-HD
663 WMAX-HD
664 @MAX-HD
665 OuterMAX-HD
*666/779 Showtime-HD
667 Showtime 2-HD
668 ShowCase-HD
669 ShowExtreme-HD
674 TMC-HD
675 TMCxtra-HD
*676/777 Starz-HD
677 Starz Edge-HD
678 Starz Kids & Family-HD
681 Starz Comedy-HD
682 Encore-HD
****684 Chiller HD**** Postponed to a later date
****685 Sleuth HD**** Postponed to a later date
686 Crime and Investigation HD
689 Style HD
691 Fuse-HD
692 G4HD
699 Showcase On Demand-HD
700 Movies On Demand-HD
701 NY1-HD
*702 CBS2-HD
*703 TNT-HD
*704 NBC4-HD
*705 FOX5-HD
706 Nick HD
*707 ABC7-HD
*708 TBS-HD
*709 MY9-HD
*710 CNN-HD
*711 CW11-HD
712 Lifetime HD
*713 PBS13-HD
715 CNBC HD
717 USA HD
717 SciFi HD
718 Bravo HD
720 Palladia HD
722 Cartoon Network-HD
724 E! HD
*726 SportsNet New York-HD
*727 MSG-HD
*728 ESPN-HD
*729 ESPN2-HD
733 QVC HD
*734 Universal-HD
736 Spike HD
737 FX-HD
738 ABC Family-HD
739 HSN HD
740 History Channel HD
743 Fox Business News HD
744 Fox News HD
746 A&E-HD
*748 MSG+-HD
749 Disney-HD
*750 Food Network-HD
752 The Learning Channel-HD
*753 YES-HD
760 Toon Disney-HD
762 Lifetime Movies-HD
763 Biography-HD
*764 HGTV-HD
*765 National Geographic-HD
766 Discovery-HD
*767 HD Theater
768 Planet Green-HD
772 Weather Channel-HD
774 Speed-HD
775 Science Channel HD
779 Golf HD
*783 MLB Network HD **** 1/1/09
*784 Hallmark Movie Channel-HD
*786 Animal Planet-HD
787 Africa Channel HD
788 Travel Channel-HD
790 TV One HD
791 GAME-HD
792 ESPNews-HD
793 ESPN U-HD
*794 Versus-HD
795 NHL-HD
796 MGM-HD
*797 HDNet Movies
*798 HDNet

1) http://www.indemand.com/sports/nhl/nhl_hd_schedule.pdf (1-2 games a night - I think it avoids the exclusive national weekly Versus telecast)

2) Voom? don't get your hopes up.

Thanks for the schedule...looks like the price went up. $169 for about 1 HD game per night is a bit more than I wanted to pay. Perhaps they will add a GAMEHD2 next year.

Too bad about Voom...I'll keep that on my wish list. ;)

Thanks for the schedule...looks like the price went up. $169 for about 1 HD game per night is a bit more than I wanted to pay. Perhaps they will add a GAMEHD2 next year.

Too bad about Voom...I'll keep that on my wish list. ;)

between Versus and NHL Network - I figure thats enough out-of-market HD hockey...

IOW, pretty much NO NEW HD CHANNELS for S. Manhattan?

Any word when S. Manhattan gets more channels?


the real reason south manhattan will not get more channels before year end is that conversion of north manhattan was so successful and converted many illegal customers that finance want new customers counted for Q109 to balance out customer count from quarter to quarter. manhattan north converted over 15k illegals to paying customers. those 15k makes up for those that were lost to fios (mostly on staten island). the thousands that are anticipated to be lost Q109 as fios is rolled out to more areas will be made up by illegals being converted where time warner is only provider.

the real reason south manhattan will not get more channels before year end is that conversion of north manhattan was so successful and converted many illegal customers that finance want new customers counted for Q109 to balance out customer count from quarter to quarter. manhattan north converted over 15k illegals to paying customers. those 15k makes up for those that were lost to fios (mostly on staten island). the thousands that are anticipated to be lost Q109 as fios is rolled out to more areas will be made up by illegals being converted where time warner is only provider.

Illegals? Are they coming from Mexico to watch HDTV?:confused:

Illegals? Are they coming from Mexico to watch HDTV?:confused::D ROFLMAO



“BOXES??
BOXES?? We don’t need no stinkin’ digital boxes!”

the real reason south manhattan will not get more channels before year end is that conversion of north manhattan was so successful and converted many illegal customers that finance want new customers counted for Q109 to balance out customer count from quarter to quarter. manhattan north converted over 15k illegals to paying customers. those 15k makes up for those that were lost to fios (mostly on staten island). the thousands that are anticipated to be lost Q109 as fios is rolled out to more areas will be made up by illegals being converted where time warner is only provider.

thats great info, keep it coming. I assume you work for TWC. We need the truth in this forum.

the real reason south manhattan will not get more channels before year end is that conversion of north manhattan was so successful and converted many illegal customers that finance want new customers counted for Q109 to balance out customer count from quarter to quarter. manhattan north converted over 15k illegals to paying customers. those 15k makes up for those that were lost to fios (mostly on staten island). the thousands that are anticipated to be lost Q109 as fios is rolled out to more areas will be made up by illegals being converted where time warner is only provider.

How exactly do you know this? Also it does not even make sense what you are saying.

How exactly do you know this? Also it does not even make sense what you are saying.

It actually makes perfect sense and is a very interesting theory....

I just called TWC to tell them that the On Demand channels haven't been working all weekend here in Bklyn. When the customer representative tried On Demand at the office (in Queens), she couldn't get it to work either and she said she would escalate the problem to the IT people.

I am using an old set top box as a second cable box to use with an old SD Tivo in addition to my SA 8300HD DVR.

I realized I could trade it in for a newer HD box for free, and have a second HD box to use when Tivo is not recording and 8300 is using both tuners (albeit without HD recording capabilities.)

Are there any choices in non-DVR HD boxes? Should I ask for anything in particular in exchange?

Maybe this has been answered before but why would Time Warner charge the same amount for service that delivers different results. IE. Northern Manhattan having 100+ HD channels compared to the 30 something in Southern Manhattan.

Same with " Start Over " ?

Bummed..and Fios avail across the street but not in my building.





Any word when S. Manhattan gets more channels?[/QUOTE]

the real reason south manhattan will not get more channels before year end is that conversion of north manhattan was so successful and converted many illegal customers that finance want new customers counted for Q109 to balance out customer count from quarter to quarter. manhattan north converted over 15k illegals to paying customers. those 15k makes up for those that were lost to fios (mostly on staten island). the thousands that are anticipated to be lost Q109 as fios is rolled out to more areas will be made up by illegals being converted where time warner is only provider.

It makes sense! It also shows TW can add South if they want.

It makes sense! It also shows TW can add South if they want.

well... no... they still have to kill analog service... its just a theory as to why they haven't yet...

bye bye MojoHD

bye bye MojoHD
NO more MOJO!


http://cache.io9.com/assets/images/io9/2008/07/Austin_Powers_Mike_Myers_as_Dr_Evil.jpg
muhahahaha!!

It actually makes perfect sense and is a very interesting theory....

Can you explain it to me better?, I don't even understand what he is saying. What does illegal users have anything to do with adding HD channels?

Has anyone considered that the person who posted that "information" might just be a "troll"? That was their 1st post ever on this forum, and it didn't make much sense.

Can you explain it to me better?, I don't even understand what he is saying. What does illegal users have anything to do with adding HD channels?

all 'old school' illegal cable customers were getting analog channels. (much much much harder to steal digital cable)

So now that they have eliminated those analog channels (in order to make room for HD) - those customers are now forced to pay for digital service to continue to get service.

Has anyone considered that the person who posted that "information" might just be a "troll"? That was their 1st post ever on this forum, and it didn't make much sense.

Of course its very likely he's a 'troll'.

That doesn't take away from the fact that it is a very interesting theory - and almost definitely has some truth to it.

Time Warner Cable NY/NJ is still a company that cares about its bottom line...

I am using an old set top box as a second cable box to use with an old SD Tivo in addition to my SA 8300HD DVR.

I realized I could trade it in for a newer HD box for free, and have a second HD box to use when Tivo is not recording and 8300 is using both tuners (albeit without HD recording capabilities.)

Are there any choices in non-DVR HD boxes? Should I ask for anything in particular in exchange?

No ideas here? Does anyone know about non-DVR HD boxes?

the real reason south manhattan will not get more channels before year end is that conversion of north manhattan was so successful and converted many illegal customers that finance want new customers counted for Q109 to balance out customer count from quarter to quarter. manhattan north converted over 15k illegals to paying customers. those 15k makes up for those that were lost to fios (mostly on staten island). the thousands that are anticipated to be lost Q109 as fios is rolled out to more areas will be made up by illegals being converted where time warner is only provider.

Do you have anything to support these assertions? Cause' if you don't, it just amounts to wild (and frankly bizarre) speculation.

A_C

I've searched this and cant find any delineation - nor does TWCNYC define where the border is between N. Manhattan and S. Manhattan.

Where does the line exist? I'm on E. 63rd Street

I've searched this and cant find any delineation - nor does TWCNYC define where the border is between N. Manhattan and S. Manhattan.

Where does the line exist? I'm on E. 63rd Street

You're in Southern Manhattan. The borders are 86th Street on the East Side and 79th Street on the West Side.

A_C

bye bye MojoHD

yea no more MOJO and still paying the same price for HDextra..

yea no more MOJO and still paying the same price for HDextra..

Can't we all start calling and complaining that we're getting less channels (-2 -- INHD & INHD2 were part of the pkg at one point) and paying the same for the HDXtra?

Can't we all start calling and complaining that we're getting less channels (-2 -- INHD & INHD2 were part of the pkg at one point) and paying the same for the HDXtra?

they added the sports package to it

they added the sports package to it

Oh yeah...forgot about that....Of course I NEVER watch anything in the sports package...and it's not even in HD!

Oh yeah...forgot about that....Of course I NEVER watch anything in the sports package...and it's not even in HD!

well... actually... a lot of it is... for some at least (and more soon)

CBS College Sports HD
Big Ten Network HD
NBATV HD
NHL Network HD
Tennis HD

well... actually... a lot of it is... for some at least (and more soon)

CBS College Sports HD
Big Ten Network HD
NBATV HD
NHL Network HD
Tennis HD

Oh...didn't realize that those channels were not part of the basic HD pkg. Not that I'd watch them. Or that I'll even get them (yet) in Southern Manhattan. :(

In Astoria here. Has anyone noticed a recent deterioration in their FOX HD picture? House and Prison Break used to be two of the best looking shows in HD but in the last couple of weeks they've been grainy messes with clay-faces and crawling moss all over the place. I don't think its my TV because blurays still look great. Anyone?

well... actually... a lot of it is... for some at least (and more soon)

CBS College Sports HD
Big Ten Network HD
NBATV HD
NHL Network HD
Tennis HD

Is that The Tennis Channel HD? Is it actually in HD? Is there a way to get it without the entire Sports package (only interested in Tennis and MLB baseball.)

Anyone watching Heroes on NBC tonight (12/1/08)? It looks like it is in SD, and I'm getting a picture frame instead of full HD picture. Wondering if it is just an issue tonight, and issue with TWC, WNBC, or the entire East Coast.

Anyone watching Heroes on NBC tonight (12/1/08)? It looks like it is in SD, and I'm getting a picture frame instead of full HD picture. Wondering if it is just an issue tonight, and issue with TWC, WNBC, or the entire East Coast.

it was a WNBC problem...

it happens occasionally...

Is that The Tennis Channel HD? Is it actually in HD? Is there a way to get it without the entire Sports package (only interested in Tennis and MLB baseball.)

Yes, thats the Tennis Channel - no clue how much it actually has in HD (I assume not much)

and you need the sports package/HDXtra.

The good news is that the MLB Network will not require it.

The Samsung SMT-H3090 has no RF modulator, but I don't know if it's really needed. The SMT-H3050 has it though. I'm sure there is a way to hook up a SMT-H3090 to a really old rf modulated TV.

Has anyone had a problem with audio? I am having it go in and out for several minutes at a time, as if it is sputtering on and then off. I see it on the HD versions of CBS and NBC, particularly in the late evening, but inconsistently overall. Not much to go on, I know, but I was wondering if anyone else has had audio issues with their SA8300HDC?

Thanks for that list...much easier to review that way.

All in all we're looking pretty good on 12/17. Any chance TWC will ever get the old Voom HD channels? When I'm at my parents (Cablevision) I often find myself watching Equator HD...would love to get that one added.

Glad to supply it that way! BTW, sure looks to me like the (most if not all) 15 Voom channels are a part of this big update... looks like they HAD to have them in order to live up to their 10-0 channels statement.

Voom? don't get your hopes up.

Looking over the list again, aren't:

Chiller
Sleuth
Crime and Investigation
Style
Fuse
Speed
Science Channel

Voom channels?

It actually makes perfect sense and is a very interesting theory....

Definitely an interesting theory, but I'm not so sure that it makes that much "sense." If it's true they have "converted" 15,000 households from stealing cable to paying customers, how does it follow that they get blessed with a ton of HD channels all at once?

TWC aggressively dropping analog channels seems to make the most "sense" to me... we pretty much know it was the huge number of analogs in Manhattan that was holding us back. I actually had a conversation with a CSR ten years ago when I was sorting out issues my parents had that I first heard they KNEW they had to drop analogs and was told they WERE aggressively shutting them down (this would be in the southern Manhattan head end).

IMO the issue was that they let that plan slide for many, many tears that left us barren compared to others in the same city who actually had the ability to pay less than we had to pay.

yea no more MOJO and still paying the same price for HDextra..

HDXtra was 5 HD channels (2 InDemands, 2 HDNets and ESPN), now it's only 2 (the HDNets). Same price. HOWEVER, on this I am ever so slightly inclined to cut them a tad of slack... HDNet's 2 channels I find to be excellent. I "justify" the cost as another premium service, just like HBO, SHO etc.

well... actually... a lot of it is... for some at least (and more soon)

CBS College Sports HD
Big Ten Network HD
NBATV HD
NHL Network HD
Tennis HD

As I recall, it was a "package" of SD sports channels added to the supposed HDXtra package. Those channels you mention are part of the 12/17 update, right?

Anyone watching Heroes on NBC tonight (12/1/08)? It looks like it is in SD, and I'm getting a picture frame instead of full HD picture. Wondering if it is just an issue tonight, and issue with TWC, WNBC, or the entire East Coast.

Ah, the 4 black bars syndrome! Yes, this happens with many channels... sometimes they catch it and you can see it switch right before you, but more frequently, it switches after the first commercial block.

You can use the zoom function on your cable remote, that will fill the screen.

Has anyone had a problem with audio? I am having it go in and out for several minutes at a time, as if it is sputtering on and then off. I see it on the HD versions of CBS and NBC, particularly in the late evening, but inconsistently overall. Not much to go on, I know, but I was wondering if anyone else has had audio issues with their SA8300HDC?

Have seen this for years... the problem is that it's very inconsistent, so there's no real discernible pattern. I'm sort of sure I never see this issue on any of the premium channels...

Ah, I recall scott_b tagged this "skippage."

Looking over the list again, aren't:

Chiller
Sleuth
Crime and Investigation
Style
Fuse
Speed
Science Channel

Voom channels?

um... no... none of them are

As I recall, it was a "package" of SD sports channels added to the supposed HDXtra package. Those channels you mention are part of the 12/17 update, right?

yes

um... no... none of them are

Eeesh, I stand corrected... right you are. They sure SOUNDED like Voom channels so I made a bad assumption!

Of course, I now wonder exactly where such channels came from.. but hell, we should have them in 2 weeks...

so when mlb comes on line in january, what "package" will it be in?

so when mlb comes on line in january, what "package" will it be in?

since the SD channel is in the 170s - I assume DTValue

Has any one gone down to 23st to pick up a Samsung H-3090 cable box?? IF yes let us konw how they are. Thank you.

well... actually... a lot of it is... for some at least (and more soon)

CBS College Sports HD
Big Ten Network HD
NBATV HD
NHL Network HD
Tennis HD

in my area they took away the cbs college sports in HD , dont know why they took it off the guide and the dumb cust. service rep said it was because i was not suppose to get it then i said i am and it was not on the guide..

Hi all.. Is anyone in Manhattan (Far West Chelsea here) having trouble with ESPN2 HD? The channel seems to pixilate and audio skips for me and I can’t figure out why. Have had the same problem on a few random channels in the past, Fuel in SD for instance is one where I have noticed it and maybe a few others in that channel range.

Anyone have thoughts on solution? With college hoops starting to get in the swing of thing it’s a channel I will watch frequently. I have a bot of history with issues with my cable internet connection so that may come into play but figure I would ask a general question before boring with details.

A pretty good article from Broadcasting & Cable:

Broadcasters Cry Foul on HD Squeeze (http://www.broadcastingcable.com/article/CA6616929.html)
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all 'old school' illegal cable customers were getting analog channels. (much much much harder to steal digital cable)

So now that they have eliminated those analog channels (in order to make room for HD) - those customers are now forced to pay for digital service to continue to get service.

So it would follow that they would want to get rid of analogs in S. Manhattan as well as soon as possible so these people have to pay, why would they hold back an that? To make the illegals happy? LOL

Eeesh, I stand corrected... right you are. They sure SOUNDED like Voom channels so I made a bad assumption!

Of course, I now wonder exactly where such channels came from.. but hell, we should have them in 2 weeks...

Voom is not that great anyway, my friend has it with cablevision it sucks

So it would follow that they would want to get rid of analogs in S. Manhattan as well as soon as possible so these people have to pay, why would they hold back an that? To make the illegals happy? LOL

no.....

What this guy was saying is that by holding off on the forced conversion of Southern Manhattan to the next Fiscal Quarter, they improve their quarterly new subscriber count.

In Astoria here. Has anyone noticed a recent deterioration in their FOX HD picture? House and Prison Break used to be two of the best looking shows in HD but in the last couple of weeks they've been grainy messes with clay-faces and crawling moss all over the place. I don't think its my TV because blurays still look great. Anyone?

Sorry to quote myself, but I've been researching what my problem could be. Do you think a signal problem could cause issues like these? A lot of channels seem to be worse recently.

Has any one gone down to 23st to pick up a Samsung H-3090 cable box?? IF yes let us konw how they are. Thank you.

If I have some free time I might take a walk down there tomorrow and see if they have any available.

Hi all.. Is anyone in Manhattan (Far West Chelsea here) having trouble with ESPN2 HD? The channel seems to pixilate and audio skips for me and I can’t figure out why. Have had the same problem on a few random channels in the past, Fuel in SD for instance is one where I have noticed it and maybe a few others in that channel range.

Anyone have thoughts on solution? With college hoops starting to get in the swing of thing it’s a channel I will watch frequently. I have a bot of history with issues with my cable internet connection so that may come into play but figure I would ask a general question before boring with details.

My GUESS would be that if you are having sporadic issues with the IP connection, they need to really look at not just your wiring, but the boxes and wiring in your building.

My experience is that the IP connection is more "fragile" than the TV one... a while back I was having lots of intermittent issues with IP, but nothing unusual for the TV part (the typical skippage that gets really bad for a few weeks them seems to clear up only to re-appear several months later). I had them out and they discovered a big issue 4 floors below me; to the point engineering was called. AND this is a fairly recently installed wiring job they did, encasing all connections running in the stairwell in heavy steel locked boxes and some heavy duty looking 4" pipe running vertically.

I remember when "digital service" was an added expense. Far as I can tell, there's no "extra cost" involved any more, nor has there ben for quite a long while now.

I think there is a basic service that does not involve any set top box. Only need 8-10 analogs for that, just the basic broadcast stations. I believe that there still may be old set-top boxes in the field that can ONLY get analog signals from TWC. I went through this issue ten years ago with my folks... a swap to a digital box cost them nothing. Along with that, a LOT of "new" channels popped up (all the MusicChoice channels, all the sub premium channels, etc.). Their monthly cost stayed the same.

So from that, it seems the issue was TWC "forcing" customers to upgrade their equipment. BUT as long as the cost stayed the same, WTF is the problem?

Just wanted to share my experience in adding an external drive to expand the disk space on the cable box. I had 8300HD and added to it a Western Digital 640GB drive in MX-1 enclosure. When I would play shows recorded to the drive there would be recurring glitches that would occur every 30 seconds or so which made viewing very difficult to handle. Yesterday I had switched to 8300HDC box in the TWC store on Richmond Avenue and everything has now been playing flawlessly. It is great to have two HD full length movies recorded and have only 2% of the space taken up.

Eeesh, I stand corrected... right you are. They sure SOUNDED like Voom channels so I made a bad assumption!

Of course, I now wonder exactly where such channels came from.. but hell, we should have them in 2 weeks...
Fuse is a Rainbow/Cablevision channel. But it's not a Voom channel.

Just FYI.

Fuse is a Rainbow/Cablevision channel. But it's not a Voom channel.

Just FYI.

Its also not an HD-only channel (as the Voom channels are)

See ch 132.

what are the benefits to swapping out the explorer 2100 boxes?

my mom still has a couple. she is in southern Manhattan, if that matters.

IOW, pretty much NO NEW HD CHANNELS for S. Manhattan?

Any word when S. Manhattan gets more channels?


TWC NYC Service guy told me today once the digital changeover happens in Feb., things should happen quickly for S. Manhattan.

It better!

Just wanted to share my experience in adding an external drive to expand the disk space on the cable box. I had 8300HD and added to it a Western Digital 640GB drive in MX-1 enclosure. When I would play shows recorded to the drive there would be recurring glitches that would occur every 30 seconds or so which made viewing very difficult to handle. Yesterday I had switched to 8300HDC box in the TWC store on Richmond Avenue and everything has now been playing flawlessly. It is great to have two HD full length movies recorded and have only 2% of the space taken up.


What version are you using? Is it the 8300HD or 8300HDC? Passport or ODN?

Finally, can you use the buffer, i.e. while watching a show, can you rewind w/o having to record it first? thanks

TWC NYC Service guy told me today once the digital changeover happens in Feb., things should happen quickly for S. Manhattan.

It better!

I expect it to happen around the same time (probably a bit before).

What version are you using? Is it the 8300HD or 8300HDC? Passport or ODN?

Finally, can you use the buffer, i.e. while watching a show, can you rewind w/o having to record it first? thanks

i have an hdc with mystro and a wd expander.

i can use the buffer, unlike with the 8300hd with passport.

What version are you using? Is it the 8300HD or 8300HDC? Passport or ODN?

Finally, can you use the buffer, i.e. while watching a show, can you rewind w/o having to record it first? thanks

I have the 8300HD and I can't use the live buffer with my esata hard drive...not even if I press record. If the 8300HDC does allow you to use the live buffer with an external drive, then I'm swapping mine out ASAP until FIOS finishes their rollout in my community in the next 2 months.

What version are you using? Is it the 8300HD or 8300HDC? Passport or ODN?

Finally, can you use the buffer, i.e. while watching a show, can you rewind w/o having to record it first? thanks

ODN, HDC, yes on buffer - that was the first thing I tested. I ran through several movies already. I get maybe 3 - 4 glitches per 2 hour movie movie. Slightly more then what I got without eSATA.

I have the 8300HD and I can't use the live buffer with my esata hard drive...not even if I press record. If the 8300HDC does allow you to use the live buffer with an external drive, then I'm swapping mine out ASAP until FIOS finishes their rollout in my community in the next 2 months.

Yes, you can use the 8300HD buffer if you press record. You just have to press record, and then go to your list of recorded programs and press "play" on the one that you're currently recording, and "volia!" as they say -- you now have buffer.

A pretty good article from Broadcasting & Cable:

Broadcasters Cry Foul on HD Squeeze (http://www.broadcastingcable.com/article/CA6616929.html)
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I read the article, and its pretty much true that compressing HD channels take the detail of a good picture quality. TWC put 3 HD channels in one single QAM hurt the picture quality. Putting 3 sports channels, or 3 movies channels in one single QAM hurt the quality.

Thanks guys for the external drive/buffer/ODN/HDC confirmation! With all these HD programming that I'm falling behind on, it may be worth it now. The old "record and hit play" trick was something I couldn't take!

Yes, you can use the 8300HD buffer if you press record. You just have to press record, and then go to your list of recorded programs and press "play" on the one that you're currently recording, and "volia!" as they say -- you now have buffer.

or voila!, whichever you prefer. ;)

hmmm....

ch 705 WNYW-DT has dropped to 480p...

I wonder if they plan on doing this regularly when they aren't showing any HD content.

(and I wonder if its Time Warner doing this or WNYW.... pretty sure it's WNYW...)

"Southern Manhattan has not progressed to the point where we can make the same HD additions as Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island and Northern Manhattan. We expect it to take a few more months to make the transition in Southern Manhattan."

"Southern Manhattan has not progressed to the point where we can make the same HD additions as Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island and Northern Manhattan. We expect it to take a few more months to make the transition in Southern Manhattan."

so..... they're just telling us what we already know... with absolutley no details...

"Southern Manhattan has not progressed to the point where we can make the same HD additions as Brooklyn, Queens, Staten Island and Northern Manhattan. We expect it to take a few more months to make the transition in Southern Manhattan."

..which is of course, BS, because they can make it happen as quickly as they want to -- set a cutoff date, and if people don't bring their boxes in to exchange they lose their service. Easy. Exactly the same thing they did in northern manhattan.

..which is of course, BS, because they can make it happen as quickly as they want to -- set a cutoff date, and if people don't bring their boxes in to exchange they lose their service. Easy. Exactly the same thing they did in northern manhattan.

ok... you're assuming too much...

1) you sure they constantly have enough supply of basic digital boxes to handle everyone at once?

2) you sure every single building can handle the higher bandwidth range that digital services use? They've been doing lots of work on these upgrades...

ok... you're assuming too much...

1) you sure they constantly have enough supply of basic digital boxes to handle everyone at once?

2) you sure every single building can handle the higher bandwidth range that digital services use? They've been doing lots of work on these upgrades...
True enough, but for #1, I would assume that yes, they do have a lot of the cheaper non-DVR boxes from when people upgrade to DVR service. And for #2 I would say that MOST buildings are digital-capable by this point -- I mean wouldn't customers be yelling about not being able to get Roadrunner service, cable-phone service, etc. by this point?

My last apartment building was small and VERY old and we were not offered digital service until very near the end of the digital-upgrade window (2001?), but we eventually got it....and that was over 7 years ago....

I went down to 23st. today. I wanted a Samsung H3090, but they do not have it,they have the non DVR H3050. They dont know when they will have H3090.I still have my 8300HDC

I went down to 23st. today. I wanted a Samsung H3090, but they do not have it,they have the non DVR H3050. They dont know when they will have H3090.I still have my 8300HDC

How is the non-DVR H3050? I need a second non-DVR box.

How is the non-DVR H3050? I need a second non-DVR box.

Im sorry i dont know any thing about it.:o. Any one out there know about them??

How is the non-DVR H3050? I need a second non-DVR box.

I have it and I don't think it's any good mainly because of the slow response times. Let's say you want to change the channel and input the numbers to the channel you want; it'll then wait for 1 to 2 seconds and then respond to your command. I hardly mess around with it so I can't go into more detail in terms of other features or likes/dislikes.

San Diego got ODN v3.1.0_11. Still has broken eSATA support though it can now recognize an eSATA drive. No buffer on eSATA. It was released on 11.26.08 but TWC San Diego/Desert Cities has it now. Might have added some bugs. NYC might get the new version but it might be a newer one.

Im sorry i dont know any thing about it.:o. Any one out there know about them??

Anyone know about non-DVR HD boxes? I need to get one from E. 23rd St., don't know which to request...

I have it and I don't think it's any good mainly because of the slow response times. Let's say you want to change the channel and input the numbers to the channel you want; it'll then wait for 1 to 2 seconds and then respond to your command. I hardly mess around with it so I can't go into more detail in terms of other features or likes/dislikes.

What about the software? Which does it run? Can you get VOD HD movies or programs?

What about the software? Which does it run? Can you get VOD HD movies or programs?

It runs the Mystro software program and it does feature HD Showcase on Demand which features on demand programs from several HD channels.

It runs the Mystro software program and it does feature HD Showcase on Demand which features on demand programs from several HD channels.

Are there HD VOD movies for pay?

Anyone know about non-DVR HD boxes? I need to get one from E. 23rd St., don't know which to request...

yeah, like the explorer 2100 my mom is using in sothern manhattan. will she miss out on something ifshe doesnt update them?

btw, not that it mean anything, but . . .

i asked: is it true that twc is offering Samsung H-3090 dvr boxes now? are they available in brooklyn, and can i pick one up?

they responded: Thank you for your recent message to Time Warner Cable.

In regards to your inquiry, we are not aware of any announcments or plans to stock our inventory
with this model DVR.

Please refer to our website @ www.twcnyc.com for any future plans, services and news updates.

If you have any further questions please contact us at support_nyc@twcable.com or call our 24 hour
Customer Support Line at 212 or 718-358-0900.

Sincerely,

Time Warner Cable
Customer Support

I have this problem A LOT! The pixels & audio drop out on ESPN2 HD is my main problem but I also get lots of audio drops on WPIX HD and occasionally on WNBC HD (that seems mostly confined to the news).

I have had TW here (3rd & 30th) 5-6 times and they have changed wiring in the hallway, tested signal strength, changed my box. Nothing has been a permanent fix.

Hi all.. Is anyone in Manhattan (Far West Chelsea here) having trouble with ESPN2 HD? The channel seems to pixilate and audio skips for me and I can’t figure out why. Have had the same problem on a few random channels in the past, Fuel in SD for instance is one where I have noticed it and maybe a few others in that channel range.

Anyone have thoughts on solution? With college hoops starting to get in the swing of thing it’s a channel I will watch frequently. I have a bot of history with issues with my cable internet connection so that may come into play but figure I would ask a general question before boring with details.

Does anyone else have guide data on 8300HDC that only goes to tonight-12/6/08 at 7:00pm. I know this has happened once before but it was refreshed a couple of days before problems may occur. I have some shows for recording tonight & tomorrow and they do not show due to this.

I look forward to your input.

Thank You.

ronster,

i have been having this issue for a couple of weeks. i have to reboot both my boxes to get the guide data back.

only 6.5 days (it stops at 7pm on the last day) worth though.

Does anyone else have guide data on 8300HDC that only goes to tonight-12/6/08 at 7:00pm. I know this has happened once before but it was refreshed a couple of days before problems may occur. I have some shows for recording tonight & tomorrow and they do not show due to this.

I look forward to your input.

Thank You.

works fine in my area (Corona) also have the 8300hdc but do you have channel 467 (cbs college sports hd) i never got the channel back on the guide for a while now (weeks) and it still says they have out on the twc channel list..

This is the non-dvr box they are giving out at 23rd St. I had an 8350hd for a year, but barely used the DVR function, so I figured I'd save the 10 bucks a month!

In any case, I went this morning at 9:00 and got a samsung box. Brought it home, set it up and every 10 seconds the picture went off for a split second. So I calle the service number and they had me reboot and 'sent a signal to the box.' Still blinking, I was able to get back to 23rd St. and replace it with the SA box. Support rep on the phone told me 4250hdc was the best one to get.

So far so good. Both the samsung and the SA are using Mythos. Seems there are a few more things to control on the SA box, for instance you can set the color of the bars to light, medium or dark. Boy did I like that- can't stand the gray sidebars from the old box. Now I have nice black bars.

The samsung seemed to enable volume control via hdmi to my Denon, whereas the SA doesn't seem to be able to do that. The Samsung SD pic quality seemed better, but hard to say as I didn't have it for more than a few hours.

Anyway, just thought I'd try and save some people a little time -avs has helped me tremendously over the years.

This is the non-dvr box they are giving out at 23rd St. I had an 8350hd for a year, but barely used the DVR function, so I figured I'd save the 10 bucks a month!

In any case, I went this morning at 9:00 and got a samsung box. Brought it home, set it up and every 10 seconds the picture went off for a split second. So I calle the service number and they had me reboot and 'sent a signal to the box.' Still blinking, I was able to get back to 23rd St. and replace it with the SA box. Support rep on the phone told me 4250hdc was the best one to get.

So far so good. Both the samsung and the SA are using Mythos. Seems there are a few more things to control on the SA box, for instance you can set the color of the bars to light, medium or dark. Boy did I like that- can't stand the gray sidebars from the old box. Now I have nice black bars.

The samsung seemed to enable volume control via hdmi to my Denon, whereas the SA doesn't seem to be able to do that. The Samsung SD pic quality seemed better, but hard to say as I didn't have it for more than a few hours.

Anyway, just thought I'd try and save some people a little time -avs has helped me tremendously over the years.

Which of the two boxes do you recommend?

Samsung didn't work for me, so it has to be the SA. The SA worked as soon as I plugged it in, and hasn't missed a beat so far. The menu's aren't as snappy as they ought to be, but not terrible. Maybe we can get more observatoins as the kinks get worked out of the Samsung. Any working Samsungs?

Has something weird happened with TWC service in Manhattan this weekend?
I am at West 81st Street and today all 4 of my cablecards stopped receiving 95% of the channels between 1 and 80.
It seems really random with stations are continuing to work in that range. For example the Disney channel works on ch 49, Food does not work on ch 50, and TVguide works on channel 51. I am not able to receive the basic networks either. Everything above channel 80 seems to pretty much work including premiums and HD.
I have 4 cable cards in 2 Tivos (a Series 3 and an HDtivo) and they are exhibiting identical issues.
Thanks.

HEY NORTHERN MANHATTAN!

I found all sorts of hidden HD that they're not 'supposed' to add for another 10 days!

....and I mean... A LOT!

Full list coming..... (once I figure out what's what - it's hard to identify many of these channels at 2am....)

19 'hidden' HD channels for Northern Manhattan (you other boros already have these....)

18 of these are placed in 6 former analog channel slots
(pretty sure the others don't have anything yet - a few more are now 'snow')

Hello everyone! I have something I might need some help/suggestions on. I have a SA8300HD DVR with passport software and a few months ago, the internal HD started to fail (ie: Every show I try to record on the HD would freeze for a good period of time and depending on how the DVR feels like it, it'll resume 30-50min later into the show WHILE the HD clicks and makes these horrible dying sounds).

After reading through numerous posts on the eSATA external drive, I decided that was the only way I would be able to keep my DVR box with the beloved PASSPORT software & not downgrade to the dreaded SA8300HDC box. I attached a 500GIG HD with antec MX-1, and everything was good again.....

However, a new minor problem has come up... with this new setup, I have been getting some picture/audio glitches on my recorded programs (a problem I have never noticed before the external drive). The glitches are seconds in between and only occurs 1-2 times per 60min shows. Not bad, but very annoying considering it never happened before when the shows were recorded on the internal HD.

Now my question would be, is there a better way for me to solve this problem? I read a few posts back, someone suggested switching out the old internal HD with a new one (but don't you need the new HD to be loaded with the PASSPORT software?) Or should I just not bother with any of that, and try my luck at my local TWC center (Queens Center Mall) & see if they even have the SA8300HD? Has anyone here have any luck getting a SA8300HD from the Queens Center location?

Thanx in advance for any help/suggestions, sorry for that long post........

19 'hidden' HD channels for Northern Manhattan (you other boros already have these....)

18 of these are placed in 6 former analog channel slots
(pretty sure the others don't have anything yet - a few more are now 'snow')

I did a direct digital scam with one of the Tvs without the cable box and I saw those channels. We should know that during this week they will put the rest of the mother load in the pipelines(cable lines) waiting until next week. so whoever want to watch those channels and don't want to wait just do a direct hook without a cable box.

Right now I am having free access to showtime HD on my cable boxes.

I'm going to have to wait. I use the box as my tuner.:(

I'm going to have to wait. I use the box as my tuner.:(

I use my cable box - diagnostic mode on the 8300HD

Hello everyone! I have something I might need some help/suggestions on. I have a SA8300HD DVR with passport software and a few months ago, the internal HD started to fail (ie: Every show I try to record on the HD would freeze for a good period of time and depending on how the DVR feels like it, it'll resume 30-50min later into the show WHILE the HD clicks and makes these horrible dying sounds).

After reading through numerous posts on the eSATA external drive, I decided that was the only way I would be able to keep my DVR box with the beloved PASSPORT software & not downgrade to the dreaded SA8300HDC box. I attached a 500GIG HD with antec MX-1, and everything was good again.....

However, a new minor problem has come up... with this new setup, I have been getting some picture/audio glitches on my recorded programs (a problem I have never noticed before the external drive). The glitches are seconds in between and only occurs 1-2 times per 60min shows. Not bad, but very annoying considering it never happened before when the shows were recorded on the internal HD.

Now my question would be, is there a better way for me to solve this problem? I read a few posts back, someone suggested switching out the old internal HD with a new one (but don't you need the new HD to be loaded with the PASSPORT software?) Or should I just not bother with any of that, and try my luck at my local TWC center (Queens Center Mall) & see if they even have the SA8300HD? Has anyone here have any luck getting a SA8300HD from the Queens Center location?

Thanx in advance for any help/suggestions, sorry for that long post........

go to the queens center and ask, i would do this first.

i know ppl have gotten 8300hd from 23rd, but that may not work for you.

19 'hidden' HD channels for Northern Manhattan (you other boros already have these....)

18 of these are placed in 6 former analog channel slots
(pretty sure the others don't have anything yet - a few more are now 'snow')

so these are qam channels for now?

i wonder if i could get scifi hd in brooklyn via qam. hmmmmm . . .

so these are qam channels for now?

i wonder if i could get scifi hd in brooklyn via qam. hmmmmm . . .

i can't confirm which ones are available in the clear on a QAM tuner...
(I have to guess that the 2 channels coming in gray for me are The Movie Channels since I don't subscribe to them)

and I was hoping to find SciFi.... probably in a few more days....

so these are qam channels for now?

i wonder if i could get scifi hd in brooklyn via qam. hmmmmm . . .

Do a digital scam search to see how many channels you can recieve on the QAM.

I notice the 8300HD works faster than the 8300 HDC.

Anyone have suggestions on how I may be able to self help a problem with some of my HD channels pixelating. In particular ESPN2 HD is the worst but its happening with more frequency on all of my channels. I just got off the phone with TWC for the second time this week and did not have it in me to really deal with those folks today. The brilliant suggestion was for them to try and fix my problem there and to call back "like wednesday or something" if Im still having the problem. Mind you the problem has already gone on a week since my first call and now on wednseday when its still not working im sure I will have to schedule a service call which will be another week.

Anyone else have similar issues? Im assuming it has to be a problem with the line coming in as I have one splitter (one tv in bedroom, cable modem, one HD box-8300 HDC in living room)and live in a 1 bedrooom apartment. Have already switched out the splitter to try and troubleshoot to no avail.

...help a problem with some of my HD channels pixelating.

....Im assuming it has to be a problem with the line coming in as I have one splitter (one tv in bedroom, cable modem, one HD box-8300 HDC in living room)and live in a 1 bedrooom apartment. Have already switched out the splitter to try and troubleshoot to no avail.If you already took the splitter out and you’re still experiencing pixilation then I would surmise that you are correct. There is a problem with the line. A service call sounds logical. It probably is a weak signal coming in to your home.

Thanks...going to call back tomorrow to try and get someone out here.

Anyone have suggestions on how I may be able to self help a problem with some of my HD channels pixelating. In particular ESPN2 HD is the worst but its happening with more frequency on all of my channels. I just got off the phone with TWC for the second time this week and did not have it in me to really deal with those folks today. The brilliant suggestion was for them to try and fix my problem there and to call back "like wednesday or something" if Im still having the problem. Mind you the problem has already gone on a week since my first call and now on wednseday when its still not working im sure I will have to schedule a service call which will be another week.

Anyone else have similar issues? Im assuming it has to be a problem with the line coming in as I have one splitter (one tv in bedroom, cable modem, one HD box-8300 HDC in living room)and live in a 1 bedrooom apartment. Have already switched out the splitter to try and troubleshoot to no avail.

What kind of TV do you have? The signal from cable is not always very good and pixelation especially on sports or fast moving scenes is very common and may not mean there is a problem. If you have a blu-ray player try that and see if it is still pixalating. You should get a very clean signal from the blu ray and you should not see much pixalation at all. It very much depends on your TV as well. If you have 120hz you get less pixalation then a 60 hz tv. My TV is 60hz and the blu rays really do not pixalate very much only slightly on really fast moving scenes. Make sure the splitter is strong enough i believe you need at least 1000 mhz

This is not a sports looking a bit blurry problem, I mean more like a DVD that is all scratched up pixelating type problem with the audio skipping as well. I had enough last night and called and got them to schedule a service call for Wednesday. I switched out to a new Monster 2GHz splitter in my troubleshooting efforts but still have the problem. BluRay looks great.

I think it has to be the line in to my apartment. Modem is still working but even on my standard digital box I noticed the ocassional pixelation. and skipping. I can live with it once in a while but yesterday it was unbearable. Strange that someone else mentioned the problem with ESPN2 HD, that is by far the worst of the channels.

December 5, 2008

The previously scheduled launches of Africa Channel HD, HSN HD, Spike HD, Nick HD, and NBA TV HD on December 17th in N. Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, Mt. Vernon, and in Woodside, Elmhurst, and Maspeth on December 22nd, has been postponed.


Also - They reworded the MLB Network addition - MLB HD wont be going to S. Manhattan with the rest of the city.

From Fredfa's "Hot Off The Press" thread in 'HDTV Programming' (thanks to LL3HD for posting the story):

Cable companies report subscriber slowdowns
crain's ny business.com
By Amanda Fung

New York City’s incumbent cable companies will be bracing themselves for a bitter season.

Time Warner Cable, the nation’s second largest cable operator, is seeing a slowdown in subscriber growth for its video, Internet and phone services, said Chief Executive Glenn Britt at the UBS Media investor conference on Monday. Mr. Britt attributed the slowdown to the recession.

“Since the beginning of October consumers just sort of closed their pocket books and everything dramatically changed,” Mr. Britt said.

Earlier this month, Time Warner Cable said it will add fewer than 2.5 million units of its digital cable, voice and Internet services by the end of the year. Analysts expected the firm to add 2.6 million to 2.8 million units.

The economy is also slowing the rate at which customers sign up for premium services like DVRs. Time Warner Cable said the demand for DVRs was down about 40% from the same period last year.

Meanwhile, despite increased third quarter earnings, Cablevision is also experiencing a slowdown. The Bethpage, L.I. cable provider reported a decline of 19,100 basic cable TV subscribers compared with the second quarter, and 9,900 compared with the third quarter of 2007. Although Cablevision swung to a profit of 9 cents a share or $27.1 million from a loss of 27 cents or $79.3 million, the company missed analysts estimates by 5 cents a share.

“The biggest factor from the recession is the lack of housing growth,” said Bruce Leichtman of Leichtman Research Group, Inc. “There are no new opportunities.”

In addition, there is saturation in the cable TV market and increased competition. About 88% of households nationwide subscribe to cable, according to Mr. Leichtman. And now that telcos like Verizon Communications Inc. and AT&T are offering TV services, cable companies are finding it even more difficult to sign up new customers.

Time Warner Cable, with about 1.1 million New York City customers, and Cablevision, which has about 3.1 million TV customers in the New York metropolitan area, are currently negotiating with the city to renew their cable franchises.

http://www.crainsnewyork.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20081208/FREE/812089974/1084/toc

Here's an updated 'expected' NYC lineup starting 12/17 (12/22 for most of Queens). (I removed Sleuth completely, since the SD version is being pulled on 1/14 - doesn't look like the HD channel will even launch)
Bklyn, Qns, S.I. & N. Man. - 97 HD channels (+7 'later')
S. Man. – (*) 31 HD channels

*350 PPV-HD
411 TEAM HD
****461 NBATVHD**** Postponed to a later date
465 Tennis Channel-HD
467 CBS CS-HD
472 Big Ten Network-HD
*651/780 HBO-HD
652 HBO2-HD
653 HBO Family-HD
654 HBO Comedy-HD
655 HBO Signature-HD
656 HBO Zone-HD
657 HBO Latino-HD
*658/776 CINEMAX-HD
659 MoreMax-HD
660 ActionMAX-HD
661 5StarMAX-HD
662 ThrillerMAX-HD
663 WMAX-HD
664 @MAX-HD
665 OuterMAX-HD
*666/779 Showtime-HD
667 Showtime 2-HD
668 ShowCase-HD
669 ShowExtreme-HD
674 TMC-HD
675 TMCxtra-HD
*676/777 Starz-HD
677 Starz Edge-HD
678 Starz Kids & Family-HD
681 Starz Comedy-HD
682 Encore-HD
****684 Chiller HD**** Postponed to a later date
686 Crime and Investigation HD
689 Style HD
691 Fuse-HD
692 G4HD
699 Showcase On Demand-HD
700 Movies On Demand-HD
701 NY1-HD
*702 CBS2-HD
*703 TNT-HD
*704 NBC4-HD
*705 FOX5-HD
****706 Nick HD**** Postponed to a later date
*707 ABC7-HD
*708 TBS-HD
*709 MY9-HD
*710 CNN-HD
*711 CW11-HD
712 Lifetime HD
*713 PBS13-HD
715 CNBC HD
717 USA HD
717 SciFi HD
718 Bravo HD
720 Palladia HD
722 Cartoon Network-HD
724 E! HD
*726 SportsNet New York-HD
*727 MSG-HD
*728 ESPN-HD
*729 ESPN2-HD
733 QVC HD
*734 Universal-HD
****736 Spike HD**** Postponed to a later date
737 FX-HD
738 ABC Family-HD
****739 HSN HD**** Postponed to a later date
740 History Channel HD
743 Fox Business News HD
744 Fox News HD
746 A&E-HD
*748 MSG+-HD
749 Disney-HD
*750 Food Network-HD
752 The Learning Channel-HD
*753 YES-HD
760 Toon Disney-HD
762 Lifetime Movies-HD
763 Biography-HD
*764 HGTV-HD
*765 National Geographic-HD
766 Discovery-HD
*767 HD Theater
768 Planet Green-HD
772 Weather Channel-HD
774 Speed-HD
775 Science Channel HD
779 Golf HD
783 MLB Network HD **** 1/1/09
*784 Hallmark Movie Channel-HD
*786 Animal Planet-HD
****787 Africa Channel HD**** Postponed to a later date
788 Travel Channel-HD
790 TV One HD
791 GAME-HD
792 ESPNews-HD
793 ESPN U-HD
*794 Versus-HD
795 NHL-HD
796 MGM-HD
*797 HDNet Movies
*798 HDNet

97 HD channels. That's makes them 3 HD channels short of keeping their promise to deliver 100 HD channels in NYC by the end of the year. Let's see if they can come up with those 3 other HD channels soon.

97 HD channels. That's makes them 3 HD channels short of keeping their promise to deliver 100 HD channels in NYC by the end of the year. Let's see if they can come up with those 3 other HD channels soon.

Not going to happen... (and its 98 - since I'll count MLB Network)

not that I will complain... a few that they had planned on adding probably will never launch... and a few are launching later and are out of their control

And at least they aren't being a$$es and trying to count every single program on HD On Demand as its own 'channel'

Time Warner can not say that manhattan reach 100 hd channels while half of the city doesnt have enough hd channel false advertisment

Channel 794 Versus HD not broadcasting in Manhattan only receiving test pattern stripes.

Samsung didn't work for me, so it has to be the SA. The SA worked as soon as I plugged it in, and hasn't missed a beat so far. The menu's aren't as snappy as they ought to be, but not terrible. Maybe we can get more observatoins as the kinks get worked out of the Samsung. Any working Samsungs?

Was that the Samsung 3090 DVR? Or the 3050 non DVR?

Channel 794 Versus HD not broadcasting in Manhattan only receiving test pattern stripes.

same here in queens

Channel 794 Versus HD not broadcasting in Manhattan only receiving test pattern stripes.

Yesterday, the Guide said "Off the Air" but today carries programming. Still has the color bars, but there are 2 hockey games tonight they are "scheduled" to carry.

Time Warner can not say that manhattan reach 100 hd channels while half of the city doesnt have enough hd channel false advertisment

How about all those ads about "Sir Charge" and how you can understand the cable bill without the few "fees" Verizon tacks onto their bills? My last cable bill (first w/triple play) showed 11 separate "fees" amounting to 17 bucks. Checking previous bills, that makes for 12 buck just for the phone service.

When I had phone service from Verizon, there were never more than 3 "fee" items.

Here's an updated 'expected' NYC lineup starting 12/17 (12/22 for most of Queens). (I removed Sleuth completely, since the SD version is being pulled on 1/14 - doesn't look like the HD channel will even launch)
Bklyn, Qns, S.I. & N. Man. - 97 HD channels (+7 'later')
S. Man. – (*) 31 HD channels

*350 PPV-HD
411 TEAM HD
****461 NBATVHD**** Postponed to a later date
465 Tennis Channel-HD
467 CBS CS-HD
472 Big Ten Network-HD
*651/780 HBO-HD
652 HBO2-HD
653 HBO Family-HD
654 HBO Comedy-HD
655 HBO Signature-HD
656 HBO Zone-HD
657 HBO Latino-HD
*658/776 CINEMAX-HD
659 MoreMax-HD
660 ActionMAX-HD
661 5StarMAX-HD
662 ThrillerMAX-HD
663 WMAX-HD
664 @MAX-HD
665 OuterMAX-HD
*666/779 Showtime-HD
667 Showtime 2-HD
668 ShowCase-HD
669 ShowExtreme-HD
674 TMC-HD
675 TMCxtra-HD
*676/777 Starz-HD
677 Starz Edge-HD
678 Starz Kids & Family-HD
681 Starz Comedy-HD
682 Encore-HD
****684 Chiller HD**** Postponed to a later date
686 Crime and Investigation HD
689 Style HD
691 Fuse-HD
692 G4HD
699 Showcase On Demand-HD
700 Movies On Demand-HD
701 NY1-HD
*702 CBS2-HD
*703 TNT-HD
*704 NBC4-HD
*705 FOX5-HD
****706 Nick HD**** Postponed to a later date
*707 ABC7-HD
*708 TBS-HD
*709 MY9-HD
*710 CNN-HD
*711 CW11-HD
712 Lifetime HD
*713 PBS13-HD
715 CNBC HD
717 USA HD
717 SciFi HD
718 Bravo HD
720 Palladia HD
722 Cartoon Network-HD
724 E! HD
*726 SportsNet New York-HD
*727 MSG-HD
*728 ESPN-HD
*729 ESPN2-HD
733 QVC HD
*734 Universal-HD
****736 Spike HD**** Postponed to a later date
737 FX-HD
738 ABC Family-HD
****739 HSN HD**** Postponed to a later date
740 History Channel HD
743 Fox Business News HD
744 Fox News HD
746 A&E-HD
*748 MSG+-HD
749 Disney-HD
*750 Food Network-HD
752 The Learning Channel-HD
*753 YES-HD
760 Toon Disney-HD
762 Lifetime Movies-HD
763 Biography-HD
*764 HGTV-HD
*765 National Geographic-HD
766 Discovery-HD
*767 HD Theater
768 Planet Green-HD
772 Weather Channel-HD
774 Speed-HD
775 Science Channel HD
779 Golf HD
783 MLB Network HD **** 1/1/09
*784 Hallmark Movie Channel-HD
*786 Animal Planet-HD
****787 Africa Channel HD**** Postponed to a later date
788 Travel Channel-HD
790 TV One HD
791 GAME-HD
792 ESPNews-HD
793 ESPN U-HD
*794 Versus-HD
795 NHL-HD
796 MGM-HD
*797 HDNet Movies
*798 HDNet
You are always up to the minute with your list Berk,Thank God I finally get USAHD back, All the shows start later this month or in Jsnusry do it will be good to catch them in HD, All the NBC nets finally getting the HD treatment in NYC. HOORAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!
but that 5 day wait might drive me crazy however since we have been up there it is good to see the city get their's first. While Slueth would have been a plus, I think Chiller will be a better fit for me. plus this Crime and Investigation HD channerl mib\ght have better shows on contract then Slueth did. Only one no show that troubles nem NO BBCAHD, but hey beggers can't be choosey. Showxase on demand HD is that going to give the best free on demand channels that are available in HD a channel. Because Fear.net has found qa home in my house so a HD feed will be a welcome addition. Once Showtime beyond makes it's HD debut my HD needs will be completely satisfied(no date for that yet?)

OK, now for 2 unrelated issues:

One is my QAM/Atsc tuner. How many or what is the most HD channels that are available when you use the tunner? While I get a fair share of SD channels, mostly shopping and news, HD is lacking big time. I only get the norms 2,4,5,7,9,11,13 plus NY1, TBS and TNT are the only HD channels decoded. Is there somthing more that I have to do? TWC doesn't deserve and is not getting another $10 for a STB.

I am hearing good things about the APRICORN 1tb DVR Xpander DVR/PVR Hard drive that works with our 8300's, link below if anybody is curi0ous:

http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16822161042

This is the best deal I have seen so far. But WOW 125 hrs of HD. That is an addition a TV guru like myself can't ignore. TE DMM THING IS PLUG & PLAY UNLIKE WHAT i HAVE HEARD OF OTHER Hard drives. The Question here isthis, Does anyone own this drive? Is it as good as I hope? Please a response yo this is criticaln to my late X-mas request from family.
Thanks guys.

How about all those ads about "Sir Charge" and how you can understand the cable bill without the few "fees" Verizon tacks onto their bills? My last cable bill (first w/triple play) showed 11 separate "fees" amounting to 17 bucks. Checking previous bills, that makes for 12 buck just for the phone service.

When I had phone service from Verizon, there were never more than 3 "fee" items.
Come on River you know sir charge is talking out of his A@#. While I do not have the phone service w/TWC it is my understanding there areCERTAIN CHARGES THAT vERIZON CHARgES THaT TWC will not have to and charges that are just mandatory for any phone service. You can correct me if there are charges I miss. Taxes are a given we will never get away from that amd on my phone bill snd you bill thst would be 3 ort 2 charges, Fwd, state, & city or local. The next given charge would be that 911 charge. These seem to be the only ones tht are mandatory, The others on my phone bill are surcharges(Federal USF, USFlong distance, FCC line charge, and th killer is the one called Surchages{does that mean I am getting chargecd surcharges on my surcharges}) that in total does add $15.08 to my total bill. From what you said you had 12 new phone charges since the upgrade. How is TWC suecharge free when you have 5 more charges then me. I know you are anti-TWC but this is the worst cas of false advertising sice their free HD campaign. Last time i CHECK THEY ARE CHARGING ME FOR NINE CHANNELS.(sorry about the caps I keep pressing lock).

Can someone remind me which areas of Queens won't get their new channels until Dec 22? And anybody know why that is?

Can someone remind me which areas of Queens won't get their new channels until Dec 22? And anybody know why that is?

http://www.timewarnercable.com/nynj/programming/channelchanges.html

In Woodside, Elmhurst, and Maspeth, the following previously announced changes slated to occur on December 17th throughout Queens, have been postponed until December 22nd.


Why? could be some odd technical problem that we'll never know about... could be that they are adding a massive # of channels for N. Manhattan and need to make sure that goes smoothly...

Considering Time Warner NYC is made up of about a dozen formerly independent cable systems.... lots of random things are possible.

Don't bother trying to ask the call center. Those guys deny the Channel Change web page even exists.

Don't bother trying to ask the call center. Those guys deny the Channel Change web page even exists.

Thats because they never finished H.s lol

Don't blame the customer reps. themselves... they can only work with what they are given.

Don't blame the customer reps. themselves... they can only work with what they are given.

well the techs and customer reps should work together because i know whats going on more than the customer reps. and i dont even work there...

some good news.

they finally got the Versus feed working right