New York, NY - TWC [Text View] - Page 80

Satch Man

06-07-09, 05:35 AM

You can search for things through a keyboard interface but there is still no keyword search. TWC hopes to have keyword search in a future Navigator update. It's their top priority feature wise. You'll probably miss it though. Don't worry since it's coming back in a future update.

Unless New Yorkers are getting a newer version of MDN Navigator than what the rest of us have installed. However, for now assume Keyboard Search to be search in the keyboard by title only. You can also do catagory searches, which are very extensive. You can also sort your guide channels by Favorites first, have instant access to Movies on Demand, Premiums on Demand, HD Now channel lists by pressing the A button on your remote.

It takes some getting used to. But its pretty good. I also think that the On Demand stations are more reiable than Passport. Just MAKE sure that you guys have a box that is fairly recent. SA boxes should be 3000 level or above for non-DVR units. ALL PIONEER BOXES are at least 7-10 years old and should be swapped for newer models. DVR users should have an SA DVR ABOVE version 8000 for best Navigator results.

TWC has been working on imporving the speed and reliability of the older boxes, but for best results check your model boxes and consider the above recommendations:

In the Navigator forum, I posted what things to expect for the change-over and what you should do. I will reproduce those instructions here:

STEPS TO PREPARE FOR THE MDN NAVIGATOR DOWNLOAD-What to Expect

With the announcement of several cities in New York and future SARA/Passport systems potentially converted to Navigator in the coming months, I thought I would share with you what to expect, because not all TWC locations are equal in how they prepare you for the transition:

1.) If you are in their mailing list system, you are supposed to get a flier and/or phone call announcing Navigator, but the exact dates and times are very vague. In fact, our mails were so slow that we got a flier about Navigator coming AFTER it had already been on our box for about three days! LOL!

2.) The first thing you need to do is watch anything that you value on your DVR, or at least burn the programs to some other medium, DVR-R, computer, even copy on old VCR tape. Although the latest versions of Navigator HAVE been very good at preserving your recordings, and it is likely a 75% or better chance that recordings will carry over, you should start watching and/or making copies of stuff NOW, just in case your on that 25% or lower population that might have problems. Start viewing and/or transferring big deal programs now. Don't wait!

3.) When you get that notice, e-mail, or phone call about "One or more of your boxes will be updated" treat that as within 2-7 days. In January of 2007, I actually got a notice that my old Pioneer box, which I no longer have was supposed to be updated but never was. A good thing, because the Pioneer boxes are horrible with Navigator because of their age and memory restrictions. (See #3 below)

3.) Be aware of the age of your box and the model of the box. When is the last time your inside and outside wiring was checked as well as signal strength? If it has been a long time, or you have never done it, see if you can schedule a service call to have your signal strength and lines checked out. Good Navigator performance demands good signal and line quality and a reasonably modern box. Also, if your box has not been rebooted for a long time, do a cold reboot. (Unplug for 30 seconds than plug back in) shortly after you get notice of Navigator coming in the mail or that phone call. This will "clean up" any old data that might interfere with the download.

4.) A modern box for the MDN Navigator download should be the following:

a.) For non-DVR units: An SA box model number 3000 or higher. It has been reported by TWC that code was changed to make those old Pioneer 1000-2000 and SA 1000-2000 more compliant with Navigator, but that hasn't helped all that much. Make sure you have an SA-3000 or higher series box.

b.) For DVR users: You should be ABOVE the SA-8000 for best Navigator performance. The SA-8300 works very well on Navigator provided that the above wiring and signal strength are good.

This is not to suggest that Navigator won't work on the older SA-8000 DVR's or Pioneer 1000-2000, or SA 1000-2000 boxes, but it will likely be very slow and sluggish. If you want the faster speeds for Navigator, you will need a newer box.

5.) Most MDN Navigator download transfers will happen within 3-5 days of notice. MDN is going by box type. Generally, at least in my division, (Milwaukee, WI) the DVR boxes were the LAST to update. Your division may also go by community or node as well as box type. The whole process generally takes 3-5 months to get an entire community converted.

6.) Some divisions did the updates twice a week box by box and node by node, on a schedule of Tuesday and Thursday nights. From what I remember, we got notice of the first boxes/communities being done in the first quarter of 2008. (I think it was January-February) and they said that their goal was to have all of Southern Wisconsin converted to Navigator by the end of second quarter 2008. In my area, the DVR boxes were last to upgrade. In January-June 2008, our DVR box was converted around April 15, 2008.

7.) However, if you are getting notices, expect Navigator within 3-5 DAYS of that notice, it may take about 14 days. But once it is general public information here is what will happen:

NAVIGATOR'S DOWNLOAD:

TWC will most likely download the Navigator update to the boxes they are working on that night between 2am-5am. However, any time they consider fair game. But expect it to be at night between those times.

1.) You will not be able to prevent or stop the download by unplugging the box or anything like that. When the signal from the head-end begins, the software will download.

2.) If you are browsing in the guide or are on any screens, the box will freeze for about a minute or two and than go into a boot mode. But this boot mode will be different because on the front of the box, you won't see those little dashes ----- where the clock is. You'll see a bunch of symbols with something like LOAD or F-1 or F-100. The numbers will begin to countdown or count up in sequence. (They MAY do this more than once.) You probably won't see anything on the screen or even be able to turn the box on. If fact, DON'T turn the box on. This is a big software change-over and for best results should be left untouched.

3.) The download of MDN Navigator should only take about 20-30 minutes. Leave your box off until the time appears on the display. You can than press the power button on the box OR the CBL button on your remote. There may be a slight delay but you should see the Navigator Guide on your screen. The box may do a second normal boot with a blue screen that says Mystro on it, or something similar. Watch the little dots turn white. Wait until the screen goes black and than press CBL to turn the box on a second time.

4.) Move around in the guide and see what is different. Check your settings. Under Display, is it set to 16:9 if you have an HD TV for your Aspect Ratio? Check your Output resolution and make sure that your settings match up to what you had on Passport or SARA. For me, everything, recordings, and settings, carried over successfully except Banner Duration, which I had to change from Slow, back to Medium.

5.) Press List and see if you can still play recordings that transferred. SUPPOSEDLY, old series recordings will carry over, IF an episode has not been recorded yet, AND Navigator can successfully FIND an instance of your series in the new interface. Unfortunately, a final series episode for which Navigator can not find a newer time to match, might be wiped out. You may want to reprogram ANY series that carried over from the old guide to Navigator if it is of high priority to you. Just delete the instance of the old guide listing before the Navigator transfer and find the series in the guide, (or use category, and/or keyboard search) than select "Record Series With Options" selecting what most closely matches your needs.

Users, if you have other tips to add, please post. I hope this helps and that you all have a good Navigator transition!

Regards,

Jack

Riverside_Guy

06-07-09, 09:04 AM

All I know is that it will be replaced with MDN. As for the time table, that I don't know.

Like I posted, the notice w/ the bill says "The change will occur in waves on select HD cable boxes."" I take that to mean it won't be city-wide, but will roll out by head end and neighborhood. Recent history show they roll out in the outer boroughs first, then eventually Manhattan. Not that they have any obligation to do it that way...

Riverside_Guy

06-07-09, 09:12 AM

Unless New Yorkers are getting a newer version of MDN Navigator than what the rest of us have installed. However, for now assume Keyboard Search to be search in the keyboard by title only. You can also do catagory searches, which are very extensive. You can also sort your guide channels by Favorites first, have instant access to Movies on Demand, Premiums on Demand, HD Now channel lists by pressing the A button on your remote.

------------

Regards,

Jack

I doubt we'd get any "newer version."

Think about the words "keyboard search." No it isn't searching the keyboard for a show. Yes it is USING the keyboard for a search (uh, obvious!). Obviously invented in their marketing department to give the IMPRESSION it's going to be the same as what we can search by currently.

Nothing more than an attempt at deception.

Riverside_Guy

06-07-09, 09:14 AM

Hey, it's always been my impression there were no Moto or Pioneer boxes in the NYC market, anyone know any different?

ANGEL 35

06-07-09, 09:44 AM

Will be going down to 23st for the 3090 cable box. I hope that they have them.I will let you all know. I did mean monday

slumpey326

06-07-09, 09:55 AM

angel it is closed today, you need to go during the week & on sat

supersuper

06-07-09, 11:25 AM

Hey, it's always been my impression there were no Moto or Pioneer boxes in the NYC market, anyone know any different?

i have an old pioneer voyager hd box from time warner. rcn and verizon has moto boxes.

ANGEL 35

06-07-09, 11:28 AM

angel it is closed today, you need to go during the week & on sat

I will be going Monday:o:confused:

mem1997

06-07-09, 12:14 PM

I see that some people are able to get an eSATA drive to work with their Samsung 3090. When I plugged my 500 GB eSATA in, the Samsung recognized it and re-formatted the drive, but now I get nothing. When I look in diagnostics, I see that my total disk space is 160GB. Is their another step to getting the Samsung to work with the drive?

G1Ravage

06-07-09, 12:58 PM

Satch Man

06-07-09, 03:05 PM

Wow, I actually had a dream last night that I went to a neighbor's apartment and they'd already received Navigator, except the graphics were staticy and unstable. I went looking for programs on demand, and found episodes of Muppet Babies for my neighbor's kids.

LOL! A DREAM about Navigator?!!

As for:

"The change will occur in waves on select HD cable boxes."

This must mean that they are doing the HD boxes, FIRST. You might expect the non-DVR boxes to be converted first, likely from oldest model (Pioneers) to newest model (SA-8300+) Than, they will probably repeat the process for the SD boxes. You should expect the DVR's in your divisions to be converted last, as they are obviously the most complex boxes to change over.

They are going in stages and community nodes to make sure the transition is as trouble-free as possible. Since Navigator is so much better than two years ago, I think that MOST issues will be just getting used to the new features. As long as you keep the above guidelines that I posted about having your boxes fairly recent, and you have good signal strength, you should have nothing to worry about. They have worked very hard on this project. There are some things about Navigator that you may like even better than Passport.

Jack

Satch Man

06-07-09, 03:19 PM

Here are some screenshots of Navigator: (Google Image Search)

http://hdtv.forsandiego.com/messages/2/7013.jpg

http://img153.imageshack.us/img153/7930/img0169sg1.jpg

http://img340.imageshack.us/img340/2181/nearesttunejs9.jpg

In link#3 MDN (at least on my version does not have the Nearest Tune feature.) This is what allows you if turned on to tune to the next available channel if you punch in an invalid channel number by mistake. For now, this feature is only offered on ODN boxes. (Where you have to go to your TWC office and swap out your MDN box, for an ODN box.) However, all the other features and functions that you see on those images are exactly the same.

Jack

AndyHDTV

06-07-09, 03:29 PM

So i seen a new FIOS commercial today. And there triple play is now 65 bucks!

I wonder if i can work TWC for more of a discount?

hdtvfan2005

06-07-09, 04:08 PM

LOL! A DREAM about Navigator?!!

As for:

This must mean that they are doing the HD boxes, FIRST. You might expect the non-DVR boxes to be converted first, likely from oldest model (Pioneers) to newest model (SA-8300+) Than, they will probably repeat the process for the SD boxes. You should expect the DVR's in your divisions to be converted last, as they are obviously the most complex boxes to change over.

They are going in stages and community nodes to make sure the transition is as trouble-free as possible. Since Navigator is so much better than two years ago, I think that MOST issues will be just getting used to the new features. As long as you keep the above guidelines that I posted about having your boxes fairly recent, and you have good signal strength, you should have nothing to worry about. They have worked very hard on this project. There are some things about Navigator that you may like even better than Passport.

Jack

TWC San Diego did the DVR's first. Then the non DVR's. It was done by a node by node basis. My former 3250HD was Navigator'd first then my former POS Pioneer BD-V1100. My 4250HDC came with Navigator from the get go.

skanter1

06-07-09, 09:24 PM

Does the Sammy 3090 box support eSATA?

hdtvfan2005

06-07-09, 09:31 PM

Does the Sammy 3090 box support eSATA?

Yes it kinda works. One person tried a 500 GB WD mybook and it seems to work fine after a few hours and a few reboots later.

G1Ravage

06-08-09, 12:02 AM

I did a cold-boot on my 8300 as recommended earlier.

I'm usually home and awake until 5:00 AM, so I'll make sure to alert you the moment anything unusual happens.

slumpey326

06-08-09, 07:24 AM

I will be going Monday:o:confused:

Angel, when do you think you are going down there? I am probably going around lunch time. If you are going in the morning can you let me (and the thread) know if you are able to get a new samsung 3090. If none are available, can you ask when they expect more to be coming in. Your response may save me a trip down to the 23rd street store.

Thanks again.

johnosolis

06-08-09, 09:09 AM

I have a new Samsung non-DVR STB and I'm not happy with it. Okay, the program guide is 16:9, but it's really just stretched out and looks blurry. Also, when navigating the guide, I move from channel to channel but the program description often gets stuck on a previous channel, so I cannot see the description for the program I want. The scrolling also seems to "overshoot" (i.e., if i press "down" three times, it sometimes moves down four channels).

I'm in Brooklyn. My mom's in Queens and she complains about the same issues.

I have noticed a strange system message that appears on the TV screen several times a week. It says, "Flash Memory Updating" (paraphrasing). Does anyone know what that means? (What does the STB store in flash memory?)

Riverside_Guy

06-08-09, 09:20 AM

My aunt had a non DVR Samsung box a while back. It had a large bug; the banner that pops up when switching channels would NOT go away! She called them and they knew about it and said to press the guide button twice. That got rid of it. I tried Exit once and that worked as well... only one button press. After that, she got really annoyed and had them come out to "fix the problem." They gave her the SA non DVR box.

TonyNYC

06-08-09, 10:34 AM

Guess I will hold onto my SA-8300HDC box a little while longer while all the bugs are squashed in the new Samsung boxes.

scott_bernstein

06-08-09, 11:25 AM

SUPPOSEDLY, old series recordings will carry over, IF an episode has not been recorded yet, AND Navigator can successfully FIND an instance of your series in the new interface.
Hey Satch Man, thanks for the useful tips!

One question -- you say that series recordings will transfer over -- BUT how about individual recordings -- i.e. I have a particular movie set to record tomorrow at 8pm and I'm away for the night, but my box gets flashed with Navigator at 2AM. Will it retain the individual program I had set for tonight if I don't intervene?

...I'm going away for a few days later this week, and the doomsday scenario is that the box gets flashed while I'm away and none of my non-series recordings get preserved.

Thanks!

Scott

ANGEL 35

06-08-09, 11:41 AM

Angel, when do you think you are going down there? I am probably going around lunch time. If you are going in the morning can you let me (and the thread) know if you are able to get a new samsung 3090. If none are available, can you ask when they expect more to be coming in. Your response may save me a trip down to the 23rd street store.

Thanks again.

I went down to 23st at 10:30. I got a3090, they just came in it looks like they have alot. The boxs are on the side. you can see Samsung on the box:cool::cool:They look new you should get a box. I set it up so far working good. You should be able to get one.They may have about 20 to 30 box on the side.Well good luck I hope you get one:cool:

Satch Man

06-08-09, 12:27 PM

Hey Satch Man, thanks for the useful tips!

One question -- you say that series recordings will transfer over -- BUT how about individual recordings -- i.e. I have a particular movie set to record tomorrow at 8pm and I'm away for the night, but my box gets flashed with Navigator at 2AM. Will it retain the individual program I had set for tonight if I don't intervene?

...I'm going away for a few days later this week, and the doomsday scenario is that the box gets flashed while I'm away and none of my non-series recordings get preserved.

Thanks!

Scott,

Scott,

Individual future recordings scheduled SHOULD transfer OK. But you still might get them flushed, I heard that people have a better individual recording survival rate that a series survival rate. Check the status when the update is complete by pressing the LIST button. Than use the left and right arrow keys to go to Scheduled Recordings: You can see the Recordings Listed by DATE or by TITLE. Highlight your choice and and press Select. If your recordings are there, they should record fine. If a show is not there, it did not survive the transfer, and you would have to reschedule it in Navigator to record.

On the subject of recordings, in the Record List, if you scroll left and right, you will see something called Record Log: This tells the user two things:

1.) Shows deleted by a user.

2.) Shows that did not record due to a programing conflict.: (i.e, "the set top was unable to record the program.") However, Navigator does not say WHY something did not record, (which should be considered in the future.) But the Recording Log is still helpful. Any shows that do not record due to a conflict or any shows deleted by the user go to the Recording Log and stay in the Recording Log for 14 days.

Jack

slumpey326

06-08-09, 12:45 PM

king of k1ngs

06-08-09, 01:06 PM

pdroth

06-08-09, 01:08 PM

king of k1ngs

06-08-09, 01:10 PM

hdtvfan2005

06-08-09, 01:21 PM

It seems that all Samsung STB's use a stretch-o-vision guide. Even my Sammy 3260 has it :(. If you set it to 480i, 720p, and 1080i it will show a non stretched guide on the SD channels.

TravKoolBreeze

06-08-09, 02:04 PM

Of cousre when I go to exchange an HDC, they give me a different HDC box back.

MacAlert

06-08-09, 02:11 PM

Of cousre when I go to exchange an HDC, they give me a different HDC box back.
Did you ask the Samsung?

TravKoolBreeze

06-08-09, 02:15 PM

Did you ask the Samsung?

Yes, I did and the person said that the HDC is the new box.

Satch Man

06-08-09, 02:33 PM

So i have an SA 8300HD DVR which has always worked perfect for me and i was just wondering what is so special about these Samsung 3090 boxes. Do you guys recommend that i switch to the Samsung DVR or stick with the one i have right now? Thanks for any help.

My advice, if your box works great..........DON'T SWAP IT OUT!

Several reasons for this:

1.) You will lose everything on your box in terms of recordings for DVR units, settings, pin numbers, everything.

2.) New boxes can take six hours to two days for head-end activation.

3.) You don't know the condition of the swapped box you are going to get. The next box may have come returned from a disgruntled customer, the "new" box may have problems of its own. My philosophy is not to trade something that is working well, for something that may not work well.

4.) Have your wiring and signal strength checked out first. Personal story, for years, my Closed Captioning never worked on my SA-8300. It turned out that the problem was not the box, but that the cables were the oldest of the old! When hooked up to my new HDTV with the proper HDMI cable, the CC works, the box is perfect!

5.) If you are having TWC come out to swap the box, the guy may be an idiot. Once the old boxes are deactivated, you can't change your mind and say, "I want the old one back."

6.) Words of wisdom that I like by: "If it's not broken don't fix it!"

______________________________________________

What would be reasons where you SHOULD swap out your box?

1.) Your box or DVR is dead and you have tried to reboot (warm and cold) and nothing happens. (Have wiring and signal strength checked first!)

2.) The box is constantly slow or freezing with regularity (Have wiring and signal strength checked first.)

3.) Your DVR has not recorded anything for 3-5 days

4) Your box reboots constantly more than 5 times a day on repeated periods. (Have wiring and signal strength checked first.)

5.) You have been converted to Navigator and have any Pioneer box, an SA-2000 series or lower box, or an SA-8000 DVR and because of these boxes, you are having issues with 1-4 of the above. Than change your box.

Jack

hdtvfan2005

06-08-09, 02:51 PM

My advice, if your box works great..........DON'T SWAP IT OUT!

Several reasons for this:

1.) You will lose everything on your box in terms of recordings for DVR units, settings, pin numbers everything.

2.) New boxes can take six hours to two days for head-end activation.

3.) You don't know the condition of the swapped box you are going to get. The next box may have come returned from a disgruntled customer, the "new" box may have problems of its own. My philosophy is not to trade something that is working well, for something that may not work well.

4.) Have your wiring and signal strength checked out first. Personal story, for years, my Closed Captioning never worked on my SA-8300. It turned out that the problem was not the box, but that the cables were the oldest of the old! When hooked up to my new HDTV with the proper HDMI cable, the CC works, the box is perfect!

5.) If you are having TWC come out to swap the box, the guy may be an idiot. Once the old boxes are deactivated, you can't change your mind and say, "I want the old one back."

6.) Words of wisdom that I like by: "If it's not broken don't fix it!"

______________________________________________

What would be reasons where you SHOULD swap out your box?

1.) Your box or DVR is dead and you have tried to reboot (warm and cold) and nothing happens. (Have wiring and signal strength checked first!)

2.) The box is constantly slow or freezing with regularity (Have wiring and signal strength checked first.)

3.) Your DVR has not recorded anything for 3-5 days

4) Your box reboots constantly more than 5 times a day or repeated periods. (Have wiring and signal strength checked first.)

5.) You have been converted to Navigator and have any Pioneer box, an SA-2000 series or lower box, or an SA-8000 DVR and because of these boxes, you are having issues with 1-4 of the above. Than change your box.

Jack

My box took no time at all to activate. It took them 20 minutes at the center and a 10 minute phone call to get it to work. The provisioning signal took even less time. Most of that time was me being put on hold and pressing a bunch of numbers. Our TWC division has a phone number that can activate boxes. It's one of those automated systems. I forgot that number but I was able to activate it by calling CS.

Satch Man

06-08-09, 03:19 PM

My box took no time at all to activate. It took them 20 minutes at the center and a 10 minute phone call to get it to work. The provisioning signal took even less time. Most of that time was me being put on hold and pressing a bunch of numbers. Our TWC division has a phone number that can activate boxes. It's one of those automated systems. I forgot that number but I was able to activate it by calling CS.

We used to have a number like that in my division that had a speed up process like that. (in Milwaukee WI. Some of us are on the thread to help out with the Navigator transition.) For any NYC subs with Digital Phone, if you have swapped out your box, how long does it take to get your Caller ID on TV working?

Jack

TravKoolBreeze

06-08-09, 03:22 PM

I was thinking the negative of getting another HDC box back but thinking the positive, I have time on my side. Since the next crutial thing I wan to record is in early July, I have a few more chances to swap the HDC box out and get 3090. I already sacrifice my old recordings so might as well stay all in with effort.

slumpey326

06-08-09, 04:00 PM

there is a whole stack of the news sammys on the left side of where the boxes are. They are all in brand new boxes so there should be nothing wrong with them

Is there a specific number I should call if not all of my channels are there.

TravKoolBreeze

06-08-09, 05:34 PM

there is a whole stack of the news sammys on the left side of where the boxes are. They are all in brand new boxes so there should be nothing wrong with them

It the same stack of boxes I saw on Saturday. I don't know if it is my luck in agents or there is a limit to how many they give a day but I think I will try again next Monday early in the day.

ANGEL 35

06-08-09, 05:45 PM

It the same stack of boxes I saw on Saturday. I don't know if it is my luck in agents or there is a limit to how many they give a day but I think I will try again next Monday early in the day.

I think they came in today, the agents were working on them puting numbers in to a stock book. I had to wait while he got every thing in to the book :cool:I got a nice agent. My 3090 working like a Champ:) no problems:cool:

jch77yanks

06-08-09, 05:46 PM

slumpey326

06-08-09, 06:17 PM

skanter1

06-08-09, 08:51 PM

Yes it kinda works. One person tried a 500 GB WD mybook and it seems to work fine after a few hours and a few reboots later.

I think I need something a bit more definite than that...but its encouraging.

skanter1

06-08-09, 08:51 PM

hdtvfan2005

06-08-09, 09:17 PM

my 3090 works great so far, and guess what NO dolby digital audio setting problems when connecting an hdmi cable from cable box to tv and audio optical cable from cable box to receiver. I set the audio setting to the dolby digital setting and turned the tv/cable box off, when I turned it back on the dolby digital setting stayed. On like before, damn stupid 8300 HD box. I never want to see you again.

Finally one happy camper again.

You must go to the factory diag menu by pressing Vol+ and info. Then go to extended diag and type in 3090 as the password. Press select and the number of the enable AC3 over HDMI. Hope this helps.

slumpey326

06-08-09, 10:34 PM

I think you misunderstood me. Now the problem is fixed with the 3090. Just set the audio setting to the dolby digital type indicator. Works perfectly now.

TonyNYC

06-09-09, 09:50 AM

Any Queens customers on here have success getting a new Samsung box at the Queens Center Mall?

Riverside_Guy

06-09-09, 09:56 AM

Riverside_Guy

06-09-09, 09:58 AM

Good news and bad news about the new sammy 3090 stb being in stock at the 23rd street location.

Good news: I was able to pick one of these bad boys up :D

Bad news: They only had one left in stock and I got the last one. JK, they have about 30-40 in stock, so plently to go around. The real bad news, I cant play with the new stb because I had to go back to work. :-(

My "strategy" will be to wait for MDN to get pushed to my 8300HD. Live with it for a while, then assess if I'd be better off getting a 3090. I think that makes the most overall sense.

Riverside_Guy

06-09-09, 10:05 AM

Can someone entertain me for a moment and let me know if you're getting 754 and 781 (AMC and IFC)? These channels keep going out here in Queens and now they want to send a truck to my house when I'm sure it's just a head-end issue.

IFC was one of those channels I LONGED to get a HD version of. We got it, but it's useless as it's all stretch-o-vision. Week or two ago, I checked in on it, things looked odd, so I spent a bunch of time... they are using that "brand" of stretch-o-vision that tries to keep the stretching to the side so the center part stays somewhat normal (I think some TVs have this kind of stretch).

Damn, it's worse than dumb stretch! Characters to the sides get stretched even more, making it more obvious. Whatever movie was on had many sets with three head shots of characters talking. DISGUSTING. The center character actually looked too skinny, but that was because each side face was SOOOO stretched.

Riverside_Guy

06-09-09, 10:14 AM

my 3090 works great so far, and guess what NO dolby digital audio setting problems when connecting an hdmi cable from cable box to tv and audio optical cable from cable box to receiver. I set the audio setting to the dolby digital setting and turned the tv/cable box off, when I turned it back on the dolby digital setting stayed. On like before, damn stupid 8300 HD box. I never want to see you again.

Finally one happy camper again.

Is there a setting on the ODN Sammy that will spin down the HDD to silence? Biggest Passport pain (a division thing, I've read some folks elsewhere with the same hard/software as I that have an actual setting while I do not) is I have to manually set both tuners to the 1000-1024 range where no buffering is going on.

lee7n

06-09-09, 10:38 AM

Is there a setting on the ODN Sammy that will spin down the HDD to silence? Biggest Passport pain (a division thing, I've read some folks elsewhere with the same hard/software as I that have an actual setting while I do not) is I have to manually set both tuners to the 1000-1024 range where no buffering is going on.

I think they have quieter HDD now in the new boxes. My HDC is way quieter then the racket the passport box used to make (I live in a studio). I am sure the samsung is quiet as well. They do not make HDD that noisy anymore

LL3HD

06-09-09, 10:47 AM

My "strategy" will be to wait for MDN to get pushed to my 8300HD. Live with it for a while, then assess if I'd be better off getting a 3090. I think that makes the most overall sense.
;) My plan too. Maybe they'll forget to zap my block. I can't live without buffers on my two tuners. :(

ANGEL 35

06-09-09, 12:10 PM

I think they have quieter HDD now in the new boxes. My HDC is way quieter then the racket the passport box used to make (I live in a studio). I am sure the samsung is quiet as well. They do not make HDD that noisy anymore

The Samsung 3090 is quiet,quiet:cool::) Can not hear at 3 feet.:)

scott_bernstein

06-09-09, 12:32 PM

Scott,

Individual future recordings scheduled SHOULD transfer OK. But you still might get them flushed, I heard that people have a better individual recording survival rate that a series survival rate. Check the status when the update is complete by pressing the LIST button. Than use the left and right arrow keys to go to Scheduled Recordings: You can see the Recordings Listed by DATE or by TITLE. Highlight your choice and and press Select. If your recordings are there, they should record fine. If a show is not there, it did not survive the transfer, and you would have to reschedule it in Navigator to record.

Thanks, Satch Man!

I guess what I'm semi-concerned about is going away on vacation for 5 days ro so, setting a bunch of individual programs to record and having the box be flashed the night after I leave so I don't get any of my programs at all....I guess this is the risk. Fingers crossed that it doesn't happen to my box until next Monday night/early Tuesday morning or later. :-)

Scott

slumpey326

06-09-09, 03:12 PM

8300 hdc was loud, 3090 is quiet

yeah!!!!!!!!!!

Satch Man

06-09-09, 03:45 PM

Thanks, Satch Man!

I guess what I'm semi-concerned about is going away on vacation for 5 days ro so, setting a bunch of individual programs to record and having the box be flashed the night after I leave so I don't get any of my programs at all....I guess this is the risk. Fingers crossed that it doesn't happen to my box until next Monday night/early Tuesday morning or later. :-)

Scott

Glad to help Scott,

I'm sure when those first Navigator downloads start, it will be all over the Internet! (Hopefully in a good way!)

Jack

dampfnudel

06-11-09, 12:45 AM

I just found out about the coming switch to Navigator. I expect to get my bill in the mail any day now with the notice. I hope they finally fixed Navigator. I'm saying that because in October 2007 when I got HD service for the 1st time, I got a SA 4250HD with the Mystro/Navigator software and boy was it sluggish. I had to reboot several times before I finally had enough & had it replaced with a SA 3250 with Passport a few weeks later.

Well, if I have any problems, I'll just get a newer box or something. I do remember the TW tech say something that my line signal was a little weak so I hope the download is successful.:confused:

jasonDono

06-11-09, 06:05 AM

I just read over the past three pages but did not find a definitive answer to the esata issue. I have two HD8300's with external hd's hooked up. When they flash me with Navigator, will I lose all my recordings? Either way, will the hd's work with navigator after the switch?

Thanks,
Jason

Berk32

06-11-09, 08:43 AM

jasonDono

06-11-09, 08:46 AM

The problem is... there is no definitive answer....

What are the theories? Do external HD's work with the HDC boxes that already have Navigator? What about 8300's in other markets that have already been flashed, do external hd's work with theirs?

Berk32

06-11-09, 09:00 AM

What are the theories? Do external HD's work with the HDC boxes that already have Navigator? What about 8300's in other markets that have already been flashed, do external hd's work with theirs?

some yes.... some no...

Riverside_Guy

06-11-09, 09:59 AM

Satch Man

06-11-09, 12:41 PM

The general gist, based on a majority but not 100%, is that HDC boxes w/ODN do not work with external drives (save for one or two reports). It seems the majority did work with the 2.x series of ODN, but not with 3.x.

HD boxes take a variant, MDN. So far, it seems they generally do work with external HDs.

We also need to keep in mind that not everyone really knows/understands how to apply any form of rigorous testing. I have seen folks claim something that does not work for most claim it does work for them, only to admit down the road that it didn't actually work!

Add in the fact that sometimes the exact same hardware and software seem to be different in different markets. I've read many claims that a certain pref is available in 8300HD/Passport boxes (as I currently have) and I can guarantee you said preference is NOT on my box. That seems to point to each division having some form of control over it's "version" of the software. One would HOPE that corporate would stop such practices with it's in-house software (ODN/MDN).

I second the thoughts of RG,

There is such tremendous variation and discretion with regards to the behavior of the boxes and the divisions. In GENERAL, it appears that there is a consensus that the MDN (non-C boxes) work better than the ODN (C-boxes) for external drive support. In GENERAL, the higher memory boxes (both MDN/ODN) work better at Navigator's functions (The new Samsung DVR's/non-DVR's, the SA-8300+ series, SA non-DVR boxes 3000+) than the lower memory boxes. (All defunct Pioneer STB's, any SA boxes at 2500 and below.)

Than there's the quality of your outside and inside wiring, the use of HDMI vs. Component Cable, the model of your box as mentioned above, the quality of your head-end signals, the competence of your TWC's engineering department and field techs, and sometimes the make and model of your TV.

For a system that TWC wanted to establish a "Universal Guide" note Navigator users that they are still using TV Guide's IPG data, (Note the TV Guide logo on Navigator screens,) so I wonder if TWC has to pay residuals for that?

The point is that there is no definitive answer. The strongest indicators of Navigator's success seem to be good signal strength from inside and outside the home, a box with enough memory, a division that knows what they are doing (for the most part), and sometimes.......luck!

Users can (and should print out) my helpful comments on "What to Expect With Navigator" for reference for anyone with TWC going through this transition. Remember, these are not guarantees, they are only guidelines based on the majority of users who have gone through Navigator's up's and downs through almost three years in the field.

I would hope that most "problems" would simply be getting used to the new guide and that the majority will have a good experience. I am REASONABLY confident that if you have read users' comments that the transition will be much better than customers who had those early releases. Navigator HAS come a long, long, way in terms of performance and reliability.

However, I cannot say that there will not be some problems, because when you have a major software overhaul like this and with the variables involved, the change-over will be better for some than for others. That is just the nature of this business.

Jack

SRFast

06-11-09, 01:16 PM

FNPonderous

06-11-09, 01:48 PM

I noticed this as well in Little Neck, Queens.

pdroth

06-11-09, 01:50 PM

Hi. Beginning Wednesday some of the QAM channels were missing and now there is just static/snow. Channels like 3 (NY1), 14 (WNBC), 15 (Fox), etc. are gone. Some are still available (12,11,69) but most are gone. Anyone else notice this?

TIA...JL

Try rescanning - they are now dispalying as 2.1, 4.1, etc. Not all of them though - just a few. Someone at TW did a half-ass job.

carl2680

06-11-09, 05:58 PM

Try rescanning - they are now dispalying as 2.1, 4.1, etc. Not all of them though - just a few. Someone at TW did a half-ass job.

No, someone at TW wants you to get a cable box for every tv in your household.

SRFast

06-11-09, 07:14 PM

I didn't have to rescan. The missing channels were restored after 12 noon today. BTW, TWC is getting a lot of money from me already.:(

I have a question regarding signal strength. Some of the QAM/HD channels come in fine (2.1/WCBS, 13.1/WNET), but some don't (7.1/WABC). The message I get is "Digital Signal Is Low." Shouldn't the signal strength be the same for all channels since it is coming from the same source, TWC?:confused:

TIA...JL

ANGEL 35

06-12-09, 09:23 AM

TravKoolBreeze

06-12-09, 09:25 AM

Today, my luck was better. I like to thank vindicator for his photo of the box. I used this photo as an advantage to get the 3090 as they couldn't claim the HDC was the newer box. After waiting a few minutes, I got the Sammy and I was out the door.

lee7n

06-12-09, 10:12 AM

I have the new Samsun 3090 cable box. What is best, should i keep the power on at all times or turn it off when not in use?? I had a sa 8300HDC, it was on at all times. Im not sure what to do with Samsung 3090?? On or off??

Unless you unplug it, it will be on anyway. Just leave it alone, if you keep unplugging it you are going to risk damage to the hard drive since there really is no shut down with these cable boxes.

MacAlert

06-12-09, 10:39 AM

Ok....I'm hearing mixed answers on this question.

Can a box picked up at 23rd street be used in Queens? I want to try the new Samsung box to replace an HDC. If I like it enough, I might even replace my old HD box as well.

Another question, has anyone seen any of the new boxes at Queens Center?

Satch Man

06-12-09, 02:53 PM

I have the new Samsun 3090 cable box. What is best, should i keep the power on at all times or turn it off when not in use?? I had a sa 8300HDC, it was on at all times. Im not sure what to do with Samsung 3090?? On or off??

I still have my SA-8300 HD box and it runs great! According to SA's website a few years ago, they recommend turning the box off when not in use for extended periods of time to make the units last longer and cool down, so I turn my box off when I go to bed at night, or even when not watching TV. (I have the remote to control the TV and Cable Box Power so that both turn on/off at the same time.)

I would turn off the Samsung when not watching TV.

Jack

johnosolis

06-12-09, 03:57 PM

I know everyone strongly insists the digital transition has zero effect on cable subscribers .... but ...

Isn't it true that NYC broadcasters provided TWC with NTSC and ATSC versions of their channels. (Does anyone know if TWC just uses an antenna, or do they have a fiber-optic link?) After today, NYC stations will not put out an analog NTSC version of their broadcasts, but TWC is required by the FCC (at least until 2012) to provide its subscribers with analog versions of must-carry local channels.

So, TWC must be downconverting the HD versions of local channels to create analog channels. Right? Has there been any delay or failure of their accomplishing that feat?

Also, will the analog local channels now appear letter-boxed on TWC? Just curious about these things.

lee7n

06-12-09, 04:36 PM

johnosolis

06-12-09, 06:37 PM

Dude if you have cable you will not be affected period

I am not a dude and you did not address the questions raised.

Thanks for your input.

Riverside_Guy

06-13-09, 08:52 AM

Unless you unplug it, it will be on anyway. Just leave it alone, if you keep unplugging it you are going to risk damage to the hard drive since there really is no shut down with these cable boxes.

To repeat, I've put a meter on it and it draws the same amount of electricity whether on or off (and nothing one can DO on the box seems to cause it to draw more a/c)... still I DO turn it off, if only to display the time (while I'm using it, I want the channel number on all the time).

The Waco Kid

06-13-09, 01:29 PM

Kold Kuts

06-13-09, 02:07 PM

In Queens, my two 8300HDC boxes decided to reset themselves at least a half an hour ago. They both got stuck on L-13 and have restarted twice more that I've noticed.

If it's one box, I figure it's the box - if it's two in sync with each other, I figure something must be going on, but haven't heard/read a thing.

I'm in Bayside - same thing happening to me. Must be a software update. Patience, patience.

One has to wonder if they fix the dolby digital audio problem on the HDC.

ilikepie

06-13-09, 02:07 PM

My box has been doing the same thing for over an hour. It just keeps restarting and showing L-13.

smithtec

06-13-09, 02:22 PM

Im by flushing/forest hills border. Same issue happening here...

However its only affecting my HD DVR Box. My other two standard boxes are not affected.

MacAlert

06-13-09, 02:35 PM

Problem seems to be with Navigator. My passport boxes are working great.

FNPonderous

06-13-09, 02:50 PM

Little Neck, Queens. Same problem. I have a 8300HDC DVR with Nav and a 8300 HD DVR with Pass. The HDC has been getting stuck and rebooting from L-13 for at least 20 min that I have noticed.

NYPokerface

06-13-09, 03:04 PM

Finally WPXN is in HD. TW, please stop giving us these crappy channels in HD and start getting us some good ones.

Kold Kuts

06-13-09, 03:06 PM

Many folks on dslreports having the same issue. Someone reported calling TWC and getting busy signal. Others reporting automated message notifying of outages in Queens.

The Waco Kid

06-13-09, 03:41 PM

I went out for a bit, came back, and my two boxes are stable again. My non-8300HDC boxes never had a blip.

Riverside_Guy

06-13-09, 05:45 PM

Sure sounds like an poorly managed ODN update... did y'all get 3.1.1_3 (which I think is the latest deployed version... and beyond what I thought I read is in NYC)?

lee7n

06-13-09, 07:36 PM

Sure sounds like an poorly managed ODN update... did y'all get 3.1.1_3 (which I think is the latest deployed version... and beyond what I thought I read is in NYC)?

didn't get it in manhattan yet. My last boot was May 10 so all you HDC haters that is over a month and no need to reboot.

lee7n

06-13-09, 07:41 PM

Finally WPXN is in HD. TW, please stop giving us these crappy channels in HD and start getting us some good ones.

Whatever they are showing now the picture looks like utter crap, some dirty harry movie i think.

carl2680

06-13-09, 09:01 PM

question
is the new Sammy 3090 DVR encode TWC MPEG 2 to MPEG4? Does this box show improved picture quality over its predecessor?

kwitel

06-13-09, 10:09 PM

Why no UFC in HD??????
Arrrrrr:mad:

HRAMOS1965

06-13-09, 11:02 PM

Sammy 3090 DVR so far good faster than 8300hdc

HRAMOS1965

06-14-09, 07:36 AM

Is there a phone number for 23rd to find out if they have more 3090

Riverside_Guy

06-14-09, 10:49 AM

A friend out of man South just got phone service and went to 23rd to get a new box so he can do caller id on screen (he doesn't follow AVS or all the issues we love to kvetch about).

They gave him a 8300HDC. The most interesting thing is he said the overall PQ is a lot better with the "new box." he's a photographer with a better than average eye so I know if he says better, I'd see/say the exact same thing.

Still sticking to my plan of living with MDN for a few months when it gets to me... then deciding what to do.

Riverside_Guy

06-14-09, 10:51 AM

Is there a phone number for 23rd to find out if they have more 3090

Speak to a regular CSR, they can make notes in your record that they can see at 23rd street. I don't think you can call 23rd directly...

slumpey326

06-14-09, 10:58 AM

I would say ask for the 3090 box at the 23rd street location. If you dont ask I am sure they will probably give the 8300 hdc since the samsung box is brand new to them. When I went earlier in the week they were all stacked on the left hand side in samsung cardboard boxes so if you dont see them then they may be out,

HRAMOS1965

06-14-09, 01:17 PM

Is there away to keep the aspect ratio on the samsung 3090 to stay on 4x3 instead of it changing when i change channels from HD to regular channel

Satch Man

06-14-09, 01:57 PM

A Samsung question about the new boxes: The models are 3070 and 3090 for DVR's right?

How do you know if you are getting the 160 GB hard drive or the 320 GB hard drive? I have heard conflicting reports from division to division.

As for bug issues, Do you go with a new Samsung which is so new that it may have bugs or SA-8300HDC which finally has the bugs out of it?

I think in six months, the Sammy's will be the one to get.

Still holding on to my working great MDN box. But I wanted to know your thoughts on the issue above. Thanks.

Jack

johnnyhd

06-14-09, 06:00 PM

Hello,

Does anyone know where TNTHD in clear QAM went? I used to see it on 93-2, but it is not there anymore.

Thanks,
John

disafan

06-15-09, 02:34 AM

Hello,

Does anyone know where TNTHD in clear QAM went? I used to see it on 93-2, but it is not there anymore.

Thanks,
John

Time Warner giveth, Time Warner taketh away...

They encrypted it again.

coreynyc

06-15-09, 09:24 AM

Has anyone gotten a Samsung box from the Queens Center Mall yet or knows if they have them?

slumpey326

06-15-09, 10:22 AM

the new samsung fixed the dobly digital setting problem via HDMI that alot of people were having, includng myself. It was so annoying having to switch the setting to dolby digital everytime I turned on the tv/cable box.

Riverside_Guy

06-15-09, 11:11 AM

coreynyc

06-15-09, 11:19 AM

New TWC Indignity!

Get this... looks like their DNS servers have failed, I can't get to any web address except those I just visited (i.e in cache). Called three or four times so far... main number and all I get is a BUSY signal!

I just had the same issue and then could get thorough on the 718-358-9000 # but 212-674-9100 worked. After talking to local help desk and then national, somehow the problem was as simple as going to (Windows XP) Control Panel/Network Connections/Right Click on Local Area Connection and select "Repair"

johnosolis

06-15-09, 11:35 AM

Berk32

06-15-09, 11:38 AM

Anyone else annoyed by lack of program info in the guide for WPXN-DH (731)? They may be solid infomercials all day long, but during prime time they do have some decent shows. Yes, you can go to 31 to see what's on 731, but it's annoying.

happens with newly channels sometimes.

give it a few days.

kwitel

06-15-09, 01:58 PM

I have to head over to the TW center in about an hour for a modem related issue.
I am still on Passport with my 8300HD and have refrained from swapping over to the HDC b/c of the issues with navigator freezing.

Does Navigator run smoothly on the Samsung box??

ANGEL 35

06-15-09, 05:15 PM

kwitel

06-15-09, 11:35 PM

every thing working well on my Samsung 3090 box. no problems:cool::)

Did you have the 8300HDC before?
How does it compare to that?

I had the HDC for a couple of weeks and it was unbearable.

slumpey326

06-16-09, 06:43 AM

had the 8300 hdc before, have the 3090 now. Love it more, quieter, faster

ANGEL 35

06-16-09, 10:24 AM

Did you have the 8300HDC before?
How does it compare to that?

I had the HDC for a couple of weeks and it was unbearable.

8300HDC was alright but 3090 is much better:cool::)

mikeM1

06-16-09, 07:59 PM

unlistenable during Yanks-Nats right now...very very choppy. Anyone else?? :mad:

LL3HD

06-16-09, 08:01 PM

unlistenable during Yanks-Nats right now...very very choppy. Anyone else?? :mad:Fine for me.

mikeM1

06-16-09, 08:18 PM

Fine for me.

I turned the cable box OFF and then ON again...for about 15 min the sound was FINE...and now it’s suddenly back to being AWFUL again! :mad::mad:

jm4duryea

06-16-09, 08:27 PM

unlistenable during Yanks-Nats right now...very very choppy. Anyone else?? :mad:

Me too. Audio is cropping and buzzing. Pixel freezes as well. Can't watch it; good thing I'm a Met fan.

Yesterday, my dvr of ch703, the closer had audio drops.

I have the 8300HDC.

Berk32

06-16-09, 08:41 PM

no problems with WWOR HD here

Berk32

06-16-09, 10:00 PM

kwitel

06-17-09, 11:29 AM

-before I go, can anyone give me good reason NOT to switch my 8300HD for the new Sammy?

Agent_C

06-17-09, 11:38 AM

-before I go, can anyone give me good reason NOT to switch my 8300HD for the new Sammy?

The devil you know???

A_C

chopsueychris

06-17-09, 12:04 PM

-before I go, can anyone give me good reason NOT to switch my 8300HD for the new Sammy?

Would you trade in your trusted and loved old dog for some new cute designer puppy? B/c that's what you're doing by trading in for the Samsung.
Stick with your friend until it's to old to jump and climb, then take it out back Ol' Yeller style.

jm4duryea

06-17-09, 12:20 PM

Does anyone know what that $3.49 charge for "digital programming duplication" means? I seem to recall years ago when I originally signed up there was a fee I paid to be able to watch my premium channels on the 2nd box. When I talke to TWC this morning the rep said it was required to receive any channel on the 2nd box. Meaning if I cancelled it, I wouldn't see anything at all. Does that make sense? If true why not have a fixed fee for the 2nd box, not this mysterious fee that you need to make the box work?

TravKoolBreeze

06-17-09, 12:54 PM

Did you have the 8300HDC before?
How does it compare to that?

I had the HDC for a couple of weeks and it was unbearable.

I remember when the HDC was just coming out with Navigator and it was just unbearable. Of course as Navigator continued to be updated, the box became more and more acceptable.

Stating that, I like the Sammy much better than the HDC. It seems that Sammy was more built for Navigator. I feel as I can rewind and fast forward and not have to guess when to stop. Also the box is so quiet and the only noise I hear is when I turn the box on.

kwitel

06-17-09, 12:56 PM

Would you trade in your trusted and loved old dog for some new cute designer puppy? B/c that's what you're doing by trading in for the Samsung.
Stick with your friend until it's to old to jump and climb, then take it out back Ol' Yeller style.

The things is, I want the On Demand channels in HD.
Cant get 'em with the 8300hd.

kwitel

06-17-09, 12:57 PM

I remember when the HDC was just coming out with Navigator and it was just unbearable. Of course as Navigator continued to be updated, the box became more and more acceptable.

Stating that, I like the Sammy much better than the HDC. It seems that Sammy was more built for Navigator. I feel as I can rewind and fast forward and not have to guess when to stop. Also the box is so quiet and the only noise I hear is when I turn the box on.

Does the guide freeze up at all or is the GUI relatively smooth and easy to use?

Berk32

06-17-09, 02:06 PM

The things is, I want the On Demand channels in HD.
Cant get 'em with the 8300hd.

you will be able to 'very soon' when all the boxes are updated.... of course we dont know for sure what the boxes will be like after this update... or when exactly it will happen.

kwitel

06-17-09, 02:37 PM

you will be able to 'very soon' when all the boxes are updated.... of course we dont know for sure what the boxes will be like after this update... or when exactly it will happen.

Problem is-knowing TW that could still be a ways away and, I wouldnt be surprised if the rollout was fraught with all sorts of issues.

It appears that everyone really likes their Samsungs. Thats good enough for me for now.

By the way-how many gigs are on the 8300hd's?

TravKoolBreeze

06-17-09, 05:30 PM

Does the guide freeze up at all or is the GUI relatively smooth and easy to use?

The guide how it currently is on this box is much smoother.

jaw79

06-17-09, 09:31 PM

kwitel

06-17-09, 10:33 PM

Was watching Top Chef tonight and noticed that most of the sound was coming out of my Right front and surround speakers. This is now the 3rd time this has happened to me over the past two weeks on Bravo HD.

I do not have this issue with any other channels and my system otherwise seems to be working well.

Anyone else?

nyctveng

06-18-09, 10:43 AM

Riverside_Guy

06-18-09, 12:43 PM

Me too. Audio is cropping and buzzing. Pixel freezes as well. Can't watch it; good thing I'm a Met fan.

Yesterday, my dvr of ch703, the closer had audio drops.

I have the 8300HDC.

Yeah, I noticed many audio drop-puts on The Closer. Usually it's FOX we're seeing it consistently on. Many have said it's Passport/8300HDs, but you say it's a HDC, which means ODN, not to mention we're on very different head ends.

More evidence this is a TWC issue affecting all head ends.

Riverside_Guy

06-18-09, 12:47 PM

The things is, I want the On Demand channels in HD.
Cant get 'em with the 8300hd.

We are theoretically within weeks of getting MDN pushed to our HDs, so you might want to wait for that event (you should, AFAIK, get all the new features, access to 699/700, caller id alert on screen, start-over). Getting a new box (8300HDC or Sammie 3090) will mean a different variant of the IPG, called ODN.

Riverside_Guy

06-18-09, 12:54 PM

I know this is the wrong thread to ask this, but i tried the ny verizon thread already, but there's no in in there.

basically, i'm wondering if there exists a list of apartment buildings in lower manhattan (south of 25th, north of chinatown) that have fios. I'm moving in a month and would love to get hooked up on verizon.

thanks!

Go to Version's website, you can out in an address and they will tell you if the building is wired. JUST because they say a neighborhood is ready does NOT mean all buildings have it. The East Village was one of the rollout places to get FIOS, yet my friend who lives there can't get it.

chopsueychris

06-18-09, 05:33 PM

The things is, I want the On Demand channels in HD.
Cant get 'em with the 8300hd.
I want them too :(

skanter1

06-18-09, 06:12 PM

We are theoretically within weeks of getting MDN pushed to our HDs, so you might want to wait for that event (you should, AFAIK, get all the new features, access to 699/700, caller id alert on screen, start-over). Getting a new box (8300HDC or Sammie 3090) will mean a different variant of the IPG, called ODN.

Will MDN allow an 8300HD get HD movies on demand, or would we need a new box for that - one that will not work with eSATA expansion?

disafan

06-18-09, 07:08 PM

Got turned down on lowering a cable bill for my elderly relatives because they don't have internet. They DON'T have a computer.

I don't get how Time Warner can justify charging $55 or $67 a month when their competitor charges $47 for a similar package, and $5.99 vs $10 for a basic box rental. I may be missing some hidden charge, but...

ank

06-18-09, 10:45 PM

G1Ravage

06-19-09, 03:17 AM

We're finally on page 666. Will our boxes get Mystrofied on this page? Stay tuned....

TonyNYC

06-19-09, 03:45 AM

If you do want to switch the the new Samsung, what do you need to take down to the store with you? Just the old cable box or do you need to take the cables or the instruction manual stuff or the original packaging?

Just the cable box and power cord. Take the remote control with you too if it is banged up and get yourself a nice, new one while you are there.

G1Ravage

06-19-09, 04:21 AM

Speak of the devil?

I was watching a DVD when I suddenly noticed that the display on my cable box was violently switching back and forth between 1080i and 720p. I switched my TV back to cable mode to see what was up. I had left my TV tuned to YES HD, channel 753. An infomercial was on. The video was all chopped up and the display kept changing between 1080i and 720p. I changed channels, and everything was normal. Went back to 753, and it was normal. Never experienced such an oddity before.

Agent_C

06-19-09, 06:56 AM

paramex

06-19-09, 08:56 AM

Ooooh guess what, page 666, I HAVE to write on this page something lol. But anyway hey guys I'm pretty new here, live in Queens, so see ya guys around :)

johnosolis

06-19-09, 08:56 AM

TNT HD used to do that... Every time they'd switch to a commercial it would drop from 1080i to 480i. Reeked havoc with my set!

I thought we all had our STBs set to output only 1080i. We all did that so stepping through the channels one by one would be faster. (So our HDTVs wouldn't have to change the resolutions back and forth.)

Is there any advantage to viewing a channel in its native resolution as opposed to upconverting everything to 1080i?

ANGEL 35

06-19-09, 09:05 AM

If you do want to switch the the new Samsung, what do you need to take down to the store with you? Just the old cable box or do you need to take the cables or the instruction manual stuff or the original packaging?

All you need is the old cable box. The power cord on the old box fits on the new box.:cool::) They have a new remote with back light:cool: if you want it. Its cool.

Agent_C

06-19-09, 09:59 AM

Is there any advantage to viewing a channel in its native resolution as opposed to upconverting everything to 1080i?

Depending on your set, absolutely!

Some TV's upscale better than others and if you happen to own one which scales better than the box, you get a significantly better picture @ 480i and 720p by feeding the native signal to your TV.

In my case, a Pioneer Kuro leaves the 8300HD in the dust.

A_C

heinriph

06-19-09, 10:05 AM

All you need is the old cable box. The power cord on the old box fits on the new box.:cool::) They have a new remote with back light:cool: if you want it. Its cool.

If you have the older remote (curvy, no backlight), I would hold on to it for dear life. The newer one I got with the 8300HDC (not curvy, with backlight) is a disaster in my opinion.

With the old one, I had all the buttons programmed into the back of my brain within weeks - could call up any function without looking at it.

With the new one, even after two years, if I want to do anything other than volume up/down or channel up/down, I need to look at the damn thing. Because the body has no shape, you can't develop a tactile memory of where things are - and even if you did, there are too many small like-sized buttons arranged in undifferentiated symmetry for your fingers to have any idea what they're skimming over. (the only prominent button is the one that brings you straight to pay-per-view - and the last time I paid-to-view was back in 1998, so whole lotta good that does me).

OK, I'm done ranting. My pet peeve. I'm sure most people have no problem with it. And the light is cool.

heinriph

06-19-09, 10:13 AM

Is there any advantage to viewing a channel in its native resolution as opposed to upconverting everything to 1080i?

Some TV's upscale better than others and if you happen to own one which scales better than the box, you get a significantly better picture @ 480i and 720p by feeding the native signal to your TV.

The other possible advantage of native resolution on the 8300HD is that it allows you to avoid the grey sidebars. On the 8300HDC that point is moot, and I personally sacrifice my PQ for faster channel changes.

What's the sidebars setup of the Samsung?

kwitel

06-19-09, 10:24 AM

Getting a new box (8300HDC or Sammie 3090) will mean a different variant of the IPG, called ODN.

Switching to ODN-is that a bad thing?

More specifically, which do you think would be better?-

1) Mystro on the 8300HD

2) Mystro on the new Sammy

JeffMoney

06-19-09, 11:20 AM

I currently have a 8300hdc , what are the break downs of the 8300hdc vs. samsung 3090 thx..

Riverside_Guy

06-19-09, 11:25 AM

Just the cable box and power cord. Take the remote control with you too if it is banged up and get yourself a nice, new one while you are there.

Funny story, a cable modem I swapped (last summer) I brought in in it's original box. They totally refused to accept it "that way." I had to take it out of the box and hand it to the guy. He said it was because some TWC CSR got a dose of anthrax (total BS, but it could be they are afraid) that way and they were instructed to never except anything packaged.

Riverside_Guy

06-19-09, 11:27 AM

I thought we all had our STBs set to output only 1080i. We all did that so stepping through the channels one by one would be faster. (So our HDTVs wouldn't have to change the resolutions back and forth.)

Is there any advantage to viewing a channel in its native resolution as opposed to upconverting everything to 1080i?

Very much so! I have a trick I use to always get black side bars as opposed to the light gray ones. It ONLY works if I do NOT set all output to one resolution. BTW, the "delay" on my Sammie is far, far less than next door where they have a Sony. It's not that bad.

Riverside_Guy

06-19-09, 11:31 AM

Switching to ODN-is that a bad thing?

More specifically, which do you think would be better?-

1) Mystro on the 8300HD

2) Mystro on the new Sammy

Actually, it's ODN on the 3090 and the 8300HDC, MDN on the 8300HD when it rolls out.

From general consensus, MDN may be a tad faster and it seems to support external drives whereas the last 2 revs of ODN mostly seem to not support them.

kwitel

06-19-09, 11:45 AM

Actually, it's ODN on the 3090 and the 8300HDC, MDN on the 8300HD when it rolls out.

From general consensus, MDN may be a tad faster and it seems to support external drives whereas the last 2 revs of ODN mostly seem to not support them.

Thank you for that clarification.

Would you think the average person would notice the speed difference?

Generally I do not use an EHD and if they are the same general speed, I think id just go switch for the Sammy. Who knows how long its going to take TW to switch us over in the city...

HRAMOS1965

06-19-09, 12:03 PM

Does anybody know how to keep the aspect ratio to stay on 4x3 i use hdmi cable samsung 3090

disafan

06-19-09, 04:32 PM

June 19, 2009

Time Warner Cable’s agreements with programmers and broadcasters to carry their services and stations routinely expire from time to time. We are usually able to obtain renewals or extensions of such agreements, but in order to comply with applicable regulations, we must inform you when an agreement is about to expire. The following agreements are due to expire soon, and we may be required to cease carriage of one or more of these services/stations in the near future:

Azteca America, BBC on Demand, Chinese Channel, Chinese Cinema, CV Network, E!, Fuel TV, Great American Country (GAC), Game Show Network, HITN, Lifetime, NBA TV, ShopNBC, Style, Supercanal, The Arabic Channel, RTVi, RAI, NGTV, TV Guide, TV Japan, TV Polonia, Weather Channel, and WPIX.

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

On or about July 22, 2009 we will launch the following new channels: UNTV on ch. 167, SET ASIA on ch. 561, Filipino Channel on ch. 594 and MSNBC HD will also be added on ch. 714 in Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens and on ch. 729 in Mt. Vernon. In addition, Vme will move from ch. 841 to chs. 168 and 818.

Also on that date in Northern Manhattan for customers with cable ready TV’s and TV’s directly connected to cable (“direct hookups”) we will move TV Guide from ch. 40 to ch. 18 and NY1 from ch. 98 to ch. 10.

The previously announced discontinuance of Music Choice Contemporary Instrumentals, ch. 647, Taste of Italy, ch. 648 and Tejano, ch. 649 will occur on or about July 22, 2009. Also on that date we will discontinue carriage of iN DEMAND Movies and Events as provided on channels 304 – 307.

JeffMoney

06-19-09, 04:36 PM

WTF: still no spike HD

June 19, 2009

Time Warner Cable’s agreements with programmers and broadcasters to carry their services and stations routinely expire from time to time. We are usually able to obtain renewals or extensions of such agreements, but in order to comply with applicable regulations, we must inform you when an agreement is about to expire. The following agreements are due to expire soon, and we may be required to cease carriage of one or more of these services/stations in the near future:

Azteca America, BBC on Demand, Chinese Channel, Chinese Cinema, CV Network, E!, Fuel TV, Great American Country (GAC), Game Show Network, HITN, Lifetime, NBA TV, ShopNBC, Style, Supercanal, The Arabic Channel, RTVi, RAI, NGTV, TV Guide, TV Japan, TV Polonia, Weather Channel, and WPIX.

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

On or about July 22, 2009 we will launch the following new channels: UNTV on ch. 167, SET ASIA on ch. 561, Filipino Channel on ch. 594 and MSNBC HD will also be added on ch. 714 in Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens and on ch. 729 in Mt. Vernon. In addition, Vme will move from ch. 841 to chs. 168 and 818.

Also on that date in Northern Manhattan for customers with cable ready TV’s and TV’s directly connected to cable (“direct hookups”) we will move TV Guide from ch. 40 to ch. 18 and NY1 from ch. 98 to ch. 10.

The previously announced discontinuance of Music Choice Contemporary Instrumentals, ch. 647, Taste of Italy, ch. 648 and Tejano, ch. 649 will occur on or about July 22, 2009. Also on that date we will discontinue carriage of iN DEMAND Movies and Events as provided on channels 304 – 307.

Berk32

06-19-09, 04:40 PM

WTF: still no spike HD

still none of the Viacom-owned channels...

Thought they would come next month.... I've seen Comcast announcements adding them next month....

skanter1

06-19-09, 04:40 PM

LL3HD

06-19-09, 04:41 PM

Turner Classic Movies HD is on the verge of rolling out around the country on various systems.—I want that channel!

andgarden

06-19-09, 04:57 PM

Turner Classic Movies HD is on the verge of rolling out around the country on various systems.—I want that channel!

++++++++++++

TCM HD is at the very top of my wish list.

Berk32

06-19-09, 05:11 PM

To clarify - AFAYK, will MDN on the 8300HD allow HD PPV? Will it break eSATA expansion, or not?

i assume you mean the 2 HD On Demand channels (we all get the HD PPV channel)

Yes, MDN will allow 8300HD people to get them.

skanter1

06-19-09, 05:45 PM

i assume you mean the 2 HD On Demand channels (we all get the HD PPV channel)

Yes, MDN will allow 8300HD people to get them.

Yes, I meant OD, not PPV.

What about eSATA expansion on 8300 after MDN?

MacAlert

06-19-09, 06:16 PM

still none of the Viacom-owned channels...

Thought they would come next month.... I've seen Comcast announcements adding them next month....

Let's not forget TW is doesn't really care what the customers want.

PedroBlanco

06-19-09, 09:45 PM

Has anyone picked up a Samsung 3090 from the Brooklyn Store on 5th Avenue?

Riverside_Guy

06-20-09, 12:07 PM

WTF: still no spike HD

7/22 I believe is the launch date for BBC-A HD... obviously not on TWC! At this point I gotta say this is by far my number one desire (other than Angelina Jolie knocking on my door in her lingerie and saying we have to talk)!

Riverside_Guy

06-20-09, 12:09 PM

To clarify - AFAYK, will MDN on the 8300HD allow HD PPV? Will it break eSATA expansion, or not?

Based on a lot of reading, it should allow PPV HD and will work with external drives far more reliably than ODN.

Riverside_Guy

06-20-09, 12:10 PM

Turner Classic Movies HD is on the verge of rolling out around the country on various systems.—I want that channel!

Ah, first time I've read this. Makes 2 HD channels I REALLY want, BBC-A HD and TCM HD.

Riverside_Guy

06-20-09, 12:14 PM

i assume you mean the 2 HD On Demand channels (we all get the HD PPV channel)

Yes, MDN will allow 8300HD people to get them.

Not sure what you mean by the "HD PPV" channel we all get. My guess is it's that channel that maybe once or twice a year gets a PPV fight... I think the OP meant a channel where he can rent for 5 or 6 bucks a movie that happens to be in HD; which you can get if one is running ODN or MDN (when it starts here).

Berk32

06-20-09, 01:15 PM

Not sure what you mean by the "HD PPV" channel we all get. My guess is it's that channel that maybe once or twice a year gets a PPV fight... I think the OP meant a channel where he can rent for 5 or 6 bucks a movie that happens to be in HD; which you can get if one is running ODN or MDN (when it starts here).

1) The channel has content every weekend. Boxing/Wrestling/"Adult" Saturday night

2) Did you really need to throw in your 2 cents when the question was already answered?

Berk32

06-20-09, 01:16 PM

7/22 I believe is the launch date for BBC-A HD... obviously not on TWC! At this point I gotta say this is by far my number one desire (other than Angelina Jolie knocking on my door in her lingerie and saying we have to talk)!

Yes... "obviously" not time warner.... since the channel was just announced and not 1 provider has announced plans to add it.

MacAlert

06-20-09, 02:34 PM

Anyone missing channel 660 on an 8300HD. I have a HDC that is getting this channel but my HD is missing it.

king of k1ngs

06-20-09, 10:03 PM

So do other areas with TWC have the Viacom HD channels yet and we are just waiting for them to come to the NYC area or are they just not yet available to people with TWC everywhere?

Berk32

06-20-09, 10:34 PM

So do other areas with TWC have the Viacom HD channels yet and we are just waiting for them to come to the NYC area or are they just not yet available to people with TWC everywhere?

no TWC region has them.

LL3HD

06-20-09, 10:36 PM

Ah, first time I've read this. Makes 2 HD channels I REALLY want, BBC-A HD and TCM HD.Check this thread out for up to the minute info regarding the launch of TCMHD ;)

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1152849

MacAlert

06-21-09, 03:46 PM

Just picked up a Sammy to replace the HDC. Ran into one problem, there is no RF out. So, I had to move my trusty HD into the living room and I have the Sammy now. It is MUCH faster then the HDC. The box responds to remote presses instantaneously. I am very impressed. Also, all my components are all matching now. It's a shame TW releases a good box when FIOS is almost available in my area.

kwitel

06-21-09, 04:14 PM

Just picked up a Sammy to replace the HDC. Ran into one problem, there is no cable out. So, I had to move my trusty HD into the living room and I have the Sammy now. It is MUCH faster then the HDC. The box responds to remote presses instantaneously. I am very impressed. Also, all my components are all matching now. It's a shame TW releases a good box when FIOS is almost available in my area.

MacAlert-have you ever used the 8300HD with Passport?

Is the Sammy's Mystro as fast as the SA's Passport?

Thats my biggest concern with giving up my 8300HD.

MacAlert

06-21-09, 04:17 PM

MacAlert-have you ever used the 8300HD with Passport?

Id the Sammy's Mystro as fast as the SA's Passport?

Thats my biggest concern with giving up my 8300HD.
Yes, I still have a box with Passport.

I would say it is just as fast. I am still holding onto the Passport as long as I can.

kwitel

06-21-09, 04:30 PM

Yes, I still have a box with Passport.

I would say it is just as fast. I am still holding onto the Passport as long as I can.

Any particular reason? Or is it just due to the hard drive compatibility?

MacAlert

06-21-09, 04:40 PM

Any particular reason? Or is it just due to the hard drive compatibility?

As I mentioned in my first post, there is no RF output on the Samsung. The TV in my kitchen gets video from the RF output. I don't want to get another cable box with TW.

JeffMoney

06-21-09, 06:18 PM

What about the hard drive space compared to the 8300 HDC?

Just picked up a Sammy to replace the HDC. Ran into one problem, there is no RF out. So, I had to move my trusty HD into the living room and I have the Sammy now. It is MUCH faster then the HDC. The box responds to remote presses instantaneously. I am very impressed. Also, all my components are all matching now. It's a shame TW releases a good box when FIOS is almost available in my area.

Satch Man

06-21-09, 08:14 PM

MacAlert-have you ever used the 8300HD with Passport?

Is the Sammy's Mystro as fast as the SA's Passport?

Thats my biggest concern with giving up my 8300HD.

Actually,

There is no Samsung Mystro box. All of the new Samsung boxes run ODN, not MDN. If your MDN box is working well, the general consensus is KEEP IT! If your MDN box is not working well, and the Samsungs are available in your area, you might find the Samsungs to be faster. (PROVIDED THAT PROPER WIRING AND STRONG SIGNAL STRENGTH ARE PREREQUISITES FOR YOUR CABLE HOOK-UP WITH THE NEW SAMSUNG BOX.) Again, these Samsung boxes and the HDC's run OCAP versions of Navigator for TWC. The non-C boxes run MDN. The two systems are separate. You cannot get ODN on a non-C (Mystro) box. You can't get MDN on a C (OCAP) box.

All factory direct TWC-Navigator boxes run the OCAP version.

Jack

kwitel

06-21-09, 09:50 PM

Actually,

There is no Samsung Mystro box. All of the new Samsung boxes run ODN, not MDN. If your MDN box is working well, the general consensus is KEEP IT! If your MDN box is not working well, and the Samsungs are available in your area, you might find the Samsungs to be faster. (PROVIDED THAT PROPER WIRING AND STRONG SIGNAL STRENGTH ARE PREREQUISITES FOR YOUR CABLE HOOK-UP WITH THE NEW SAMSUNG BOX.) Again, these Samsung boxes and the HDC's run OCAP versions of Navigator for TWC. The non-C boxes run MDN. The two systems are separate. You cannot get ODN on a non-C (Mystro) box. You can't get MDN on a C (OCAP) box.

All factory direct TWC-Navigator boxes run the OCAP version.

Jack

This is what I dont understand, the "general consensus".

Whats the big deal with keeping an MDN box if the Samsung ODN runs fast and smooth??
Alot of people act like the MDN boxes are the holy grail of cable but I cant figure out why and, no one seems to be able to explain why either.
Can you explain why the MDN should be kept as opposed to switching to the Sammy(other than EHD campatability)?
If the Samsungs address the issues that bogged down the 8300hdc then why not switch to the new interface that allows for all HD channels and be using the latest software?

j7f

06-21-09, 10:19 PM

currently have the 8300 hd dvr. passport.
great box. love it.
was curious about the new sammy dvr boxes, tho.

i heard [or read...not sure] somewhere that the new sammy dvr boxes don't run concurrent buffers.
is that true?
that would be a HUGE reason for me to try to keep my 8300 hd as long as i can.

anyone?

margoba

06-22-09, 12:23 AM

This is quite a bit OT, but somebody might know. Tonight, I set my DVR to record both episodes of Merlin (8-9 and 9-10). When I got home and watched the first one, I noticed that the golf lasted until 8:10 or so. What I want to know is whether they managed to "squeeze" Merlin enough that it ended at 10:00, or whether I lost the last 10 minutes.

Can anybody recommend a good forum or site where I could find this out?

Thanks,

-barry

Satch Man

06-22-09, 04:08 AM

This is what I don't understand, the "general consensus".

Whats the big deal with keeping an MDN box if the Samsung ODN runs fast and smooth??
Alot of people act like the MDN boxes are the holy grail of cable but I cant figure out why and, no one seems to be able to explain why either.
Can you explain why the MDN should be kept as opposed to switching to the Sammy(other than EHD compatability)?
If the Samsungs address the issues that bogged down the 8300hdc then why not switch to the new interface that allows for all HD channels and be using the latest software?

This is more of a personal preference philosophy that you may agree with, be middle of the road, or toss.

I believe that if your cable equipment is working well and if you are happy with what you have, you should keep it. Here are some reasons why:

1.) You will lose ALL recordings on a DVR box if you switch.

2.) Any settings such as pin numbers, box settings would have to be reprogrammed.

3.) You may get stuck with a bad new box. You have no way of knowing if a disgruntled customer had it before, how well it was maintained.

4.) New hardware generally needs about a six month grace period for bugs to be worked out. Newer is often better more than likely, but not necessarily a given.

5.) Digital Phone subs may have to wait 24 hours for Caller ID to reactive on-screen.

6.) Swapping out your box with a truck roll could leave you with an idiot installer who might mess things up.

7.) Self-installs still require hauling the thing back to the service center or drop-off, exchanging it, still takes a lot of time. (Depending on how close you are to a service center.)

8.) The differences in speed and reliability may be very sutle.

9.) ***E-SATA (external drive) support has been known NOT to work on the ODN boxes, and/or require great effort to get them to work on the C-boxes. This is a huge deal-breaker for many people, where they have chosen to stay with MSN boxes until they die out.

10) Your wiring and signal strength may be the culprit if you have bad cable reception. Until that is fixed, a new box won't do much good.

If you are not happy with your HD or HDC and want a Samsung, and your division has it, by all means get one! But keep the above in mind. I'm just one of those, "If it ain't broken, don't fix it." people. But you do what you want.

The only thing I would say would be have your wiring and signal strength checked out BEFORE you get the new box, just to make sure that is not an issue. Let us know what you decide.

Jack