This is a VERY FAQ :) But briefly, with an external tuner (meaning, not a Comcast cable box) you'll only get the channels that are UN-encrypted. Mostly the locals, with maybe a few cable channels (subject to change on Comcast's whim) but most of the premium cable channels are encrypted.

Is there a mapping from the fusionHD channel to the comcast channel, where u can find such mapping?

Since ESPNHD is not encrypt, i thought neither will the discHD, BTW, u guys think manually tuning the fusion can possibly get the DiscHD? Auto tuning doesn' show it.

thx and i'll try all those u guys suggested.

BXZ


Maybe someone from Milpitas will chime in, but DiscHD is likely encrypted in your area. If it's unencrypted, the Fusion should receive it on 115.3.

I've never seen ESPNHD encrypted, maybe because it's a sub of NBCHD (116.1) on 116.3. Right now in my area on my QAM tuner, DiscoveryHD (115.3) & INHD1/2 (105.2/3) are unencrypted too, so it's different in places.

Hi Mikef5,

I can only see 72.1, which seems to be comcast program guide, there's no other sub channels. Can u verify?

thx
BXZ


Nope, try 72.4, it's unencrypted for now but probably not for much longer...

Laters,
Mikef5

Hi Mikef5,

I can only see 72.1, which seems to be comcast program guide, there's no other sub channels. Can u verify?

thx
BXZ

72.4 is Discovery Hd for the Milpitas area, you didn't say what area you are in. The channel frequencies are different in different areas. So if you're in San Jose it is different than here in Milpitas, you need to find someone that is in the same loop ( area ) that you are in.

Laters,
Mikef5

OOPs, sorry Bxz, I read further up the tread and you did say you are in Milpitas, my bad. The 72.4 is for Discovery HD in our area, at least that's how it shows on my LG-4200a receiver.

The Fusion software is flaky... ok it sucks, and sometimes a different software version will detect a different list of channels. So that's another thing to look at.

i agree, anyway, my new sharp LCD37D5U is on the way, see if that can tune it.


The Fusion software is flaky... ok it sucks, and sometimes a different software version will detect a different list of channels. So that's another thing to look at.

I'm in San Jose (Berryessa) and use the Fusion card with its crappy software.
I receive the following unencrypted QAM channels from Comcast.

INHD 105.2
INHD2 105.3
HDNet? 112.2
Discovery HD Theater 115.3
KNTV HD 116.1
KNTV Weather 116.2
ESPN HD 116.3
KGO HD 117.1
KQED HD 117.2
KQED E 117.3
KQED W 117.4
LIFE 117.5
KIDS 117.6
KGO SD 117.7

Could someone please post the channel numbers for KTVU(FOX) and KPIX(CBS)?
Thanks.

I'm in San Jose (Berryessa) and use the Fusion card with its crappy software.
I receive the following unencrypted QAM channels from Comcast.

Could someone please post the channel numbers for KTVU(FOX) and KPIX(CBS)?
Thanks.

I am in San Jose downtown(94112). The rest of the lineup is same as you.

KPIX(CBS) 78.1
KFVU(FOX) 78.2

HTH

Are any of the SD digital channels unencrypted with a QAM tuner?

Here's an update to the Bay Area's lineup changes and info on the new 6412 boxes for Mr. J, who has allowed me to post this information here.
____________________________________________________________ _____________

I've noticed the Forum members have asked you a few questions on various topics.

Thought I'd help provide the correct information.

You may post the answers on the Forum.

(1) Motorola 6412 (Phase 3) Set Top Boxes

We have received the first shipment of the latest version (Phase 3) of the Motorola 6412 DVR units. We will soon begin to bench test the units, putting them through our standard quality control testing before we place them into inventory for distribution

The following features are available on the Phase 3 unit for High-definition video output:

HDMI (also compatible with DVI using an HDMI-to-DVI converter cable)

Component Video (Y Pb Pr)

IEEE 1394

Standard-definition video output through:

S-Video

Baseband

RF

And Audio output through:

S/PDIF ATSC standard Dolby Digital® AC-3 electrical or optical

I’ll drop you a note when the units become available for distribution.

(2) WB HD

Will not be launched on September 1st as "Orbital" speculates. As you know from our last email discussion, the FCC requires thirty day notice for any change to a channel lineup, so everyone will have plenty of notice about any upcoming additions.

Here are the changes that will take place in September.

September 1

KCSO-LP launches on Limited Basic, channel 18, in Vacaville, Fairfield and Travis. Telemundo drops from channel 18 in Vacaville, Fairfield and Travis AFB

September 7

INHD 1 launches channel 719, in Los Gatos/Saratoga/Milpitas

INHD 2 launches channel 720, in Los Gatos/Saratoga/Milpitas

September 8

WGN launches on Limited Basic channel 33, in Petaluma/Rohnert Park & Healdsburg



September 20

California Channel launches on Limited Basic channel 78, Part-Time, in Fairfield, Vacaville & Travis

Leased Access launches on Limited Basic channel 78, Part-Time, in Fairfield, Vacaville & Travis



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


So there's the straight scoop from Mr. J about the new lineup's and the new boxes. Seems the boxes are in but need to be tested before they will be released. This is a lot sooner than I thought they'd be available but then again Comcast is moving alot faster in alot of areas than I thought they would.. :)
If you read the message closely Mr. J. does read this forum and takes your suggestions to heart and does try to get the correct information to you. I'm amazed that a V.P. would take the time to do this but then again he is Comcast's Communications V.P. ... :D

Laters,
Mikef5

Good info Mike. Thanks for posting the update.

Good info Mike. Thanks for posting the update.

Not a problem, but I'm just the messenger, Mr. J. does the real work ... :D

Laters,
Mikef5

Not a problem, but I'm just the messenger, Mr. J. does the real work ... :D

Laters,
Mikef5

Understood. But it's nice to have the conduit for information. Can't have the whole forum burying the guy with questions or he wouldn't get anything done. ;)

Now about that home media center........ :D

Now about that home media center........ :D

I sort of asked about that myself.. :p
If you look at the chip set specs it has most of what's needed for it to be or be part of a HMC sooooooo....... :)
We'll just have to wait and see what's in the boxes when they are released.

Laters,
Mikef5

Thanks Mikef5. :)

I see there is nothing about Santa Rosa though. The no INHD thing really bugs me.. :(

(..and nobody has contacted me yet either..)

(..and just for giggles, DirecTV has ESPN2-HD starting Sept 8-9..)

I see there is nothing about Santa Rosa though. The no INHD thing really bugs me.. (..and nobody has contacted me yet either..)

Now we know where keenan gets his inside info...... ;)

From a SF Chronicle article:
------------------------------------
[snipped]
"Comcast officials said it shouldn't have happened.
"We only use the actual customers names on the bill," said Patricia Andrews-Keenan, a Comcast spokeswoman.
Company officials went through the records and identified two people who were involved with the name change and fired them, Andrews-Keenan said. It's unknown why the employees did it."
---------------------------------------

Mikef5

That's awesome, I finally figured out tuning to the Discover HD channel by messing around the registry using a beta version of the fusion s/w they send me, 72.2 exactly in milpitas, 72.1 is encrypted, i guess it might be the HBO, looking forward to 09/07 for the INHD.

Maybe i still need to ask u guys about the channel number if it can't be tuned automatically.

thx a lot
BXZ


[QUOTE=Mikef5]Here's an update to the Bay Area's lineup changes and info on the new 6412 boxes for Mr. J, who has allowed me to post this information here.
____________________________________________________________ _____________


September 7

INHD 1 launches channel 719, in Los Gatos/Saratoga/Milpitas

INHD 2 launches channel 720, in Los Gatos/Saratoga/Milpitas

Now we know where keenan gets his inside info...... ;)

From a SF Chronicle article:
------------------------------------
[snipped]
"Comcast officials said it shouldn't have happened.
"We only use the actual customers names on the bill," said Patricia Andrews-Keenan, a Comcast spokeswoman.
Company officials went through the records and identified two people who were involved with the name change and fired them, Andrews-Keenan said. It's unknown why the employees did it."
---------------------------------------
No relation (as far as I know), I wish I had inside info, especially about what the heck they're doing in Santa Rosa.. :confused:

What on earth can I do to get a phase 3 box the moment they are available to me in oakland. I'm convince that the DVI-HDMI method is causing me to have subpar performance and would really like to get a real HDMI output on my box ASAP.

Please let me know.

I currently have this (http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B00065XSU8/102-0475103-7368163?v=glance) 17" widescreen LCD monitor. The monitor natively supports 1280x768 through the db15 port only. Although there is a component input, it only supports 480p. Will the comcast DVR box work with this monitor (or any monitor for that matter) through the DB15 port?

I currently have this (http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B00065XSU8/102-0475103-7368163?v=glance) 17" widescreen LCD monitor. The monitor natively supports 1280x768 through the db15 port only. Although there is a component input, it only supports 480p. Will the comcast DVR box work with this monitor (or any monitor for that matter) through the DB15 port?

Although less than ideal, I believe you can get a vga-component transcoder. It may be tricky to set up, and they cost ~$100-300. You migh find more info about this in the HTPC forum.

No relation (as far as I know), I wish I had inside info, especially about what the heck they're doing in Santa Rosa.. :confused:
They're just waiting for me to switch to DirecTV. It will all change after that. Sorry for the delay...it's all my fault.

How can I get a Phase 3 6412? Does Comcast look for early adopters? Or wait till end of year.

Also how can I determine if I have Phase 1 or Phase 2 6412?

Thanks.

I've been helping a client incorporate his Comcast 6200 HD/DVR box into the A/V multizone system we've set up. The comcast's component output is going into a YPbPr distribution amp to feed two widescreen LCD panels ... this part is working like a charm. (control of the DVR from the different locations, btw, occurs via IR distribution)

We also figured we'd feed the 6200's composite output directly into the multizone system (Russound CAV) to get the video feed on a couple of smaller 4x3 LCD panels. Surprisingly, the picture came up remarkably clear and undistorted (since we'd configured the unit for 16x9 mode, I thought at least we'd end up with a "squashed" picture). Problem is, although the video feed over composite is coming through w/o issue, the menu overlays (e.g., guide, info, dvr menus) are *not*!?!

We did confirm that this was a problem with the composite output only ... e.g., hitting the GUIDE button on the remote caused the guide to show up on the displays being fed via component, while the composite sets showed no menu.

Any ideas why the menu's not displaying over the composite output?

Not sure why, but the manual clearly states that this output nor s-video supports overlay.

DVR 6200 - menu doesn't display over composite output?
The 6200 I have will not display onscreen menus on composite or s-video outputs only if you are tuned to a HD channel. For SD channels, menus appear on all outputs.

You need to set your 4:3 override to 480I to get graphics over the
composite/S-Video outputs. This will work for SD channels only. You
must use the component outputs to get graphics for the HD channels.

To set your 4:3 override ot 480I, follow these instructions: Depress
the cable button on the remote. Depress power and then menu (within 5
seconds). You will see the 4:3 override on the third level. Click
down to the third level and depress right (or left) arrow until you
get 480I. Depress power twice and you should now be able to see
graphics on the composite output.

Ethernet port on Comcast 6200 DVR?

I also noticed there's an ethernet port on the back of Comcast's 6200 DVR ... is this port active, and if so what application is it used for? Streaming video? Remote control via web interface, etc?

Bobby,
then you can probably help me. I have my 6200 feeding 2 inputs on my display: 1) 1080i HD input and 2) 480i s-video. I've not found a setting for the 4:3 override that will give me menu on both at the same time. IYO, what's the correct setting to give menu/guide info on both the 1080i component output and the 480i s-video?

thanks,
jeff

You need to set your 4:3 override to 480I to get graphics over the
composite/S-Video outputs. This will work for SD channels only. You
must use the component outputs to get graphics for the HD channels.

To set your 4:3 override ot 480I, follow these instructions: Depress
the cable button on the remote. Depress power and then menu (within 5
seconds). You will see the 4:3 override on the third level. Click
down to the third level and depress right (or left) arrow until you
get 480I. Depress power twice and you should now be able to see
graphics on the composite output.
Aha...I was afraid of that. Yeah, resetting to 480i isn't an option, as the box primarily feeds two HDTV sets. I'd like to send the composite output to a couple of EDTV sets as well to gain DVR functionality there, but looks like I'll need to come up with some other solution. Thanks for the confirmation!

It can only output graphics on 1 channel at a time (SD or HD) and the ethernet is disabled (along with the USB and the front-panel inputs).

ABC-HD problems !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
____________________________________________________________ __________

I recieved this notice form Mr. J. about problems and upgrades that ABC is doing that will affect the broadcasting of HD content.

You may post this information on the Forum:

Comcast received notification that ABC will be upgrading its HDTV transmission facilities this week, and, as a result, will not be broadcasting HDTV programming from Tuesday August 23 through Friday August 27.

From August 23-26, ABC will be performing technical upgrades to their high-definition television facilities and will not be broadcasting programs in HDTV.

(Note: this will not impact tonight’s ABC preseason NFL broadcast of the Cowboys-Seahawks game.)

ABC affiliates may, on a case-by-case basis, up-convert the network’s prime time standard-definition signal to air on the digital channels where HDTV programming normally airs.

Many stations currently do this with ABC daytime, local and syndicated programs.

(To learn more, interested folks can check with KGO for additional information about their plans)

____________________________________________________________ ___


Laters,
Mikef5

Aha...I was afraid of that. Yeah, resetting to 480i isn't an option, as the box primarily feeds two HDTV sets. I'd like to send the composite output to a couple of EDTV sets as well to gain DVR functionality there, but looks like I'll need to come up with some other solution. Thanks for the confirmation!Most all HDTVs and EDTVs I've experimented with can accept a 480i signal on the component inputs. So you should be ok with the 480i override setting, give it a try. When on an HD chan, output will be 720p or 1080i and when on an SD chan, output will be 480i, all automatically.

Ethernet port on Comcast 6200 DVR?

I also noticed there's an ethernet port on the back of Comcast's 6200 DVR ... is this port active, and if so what application is it used for? Streaming video? Remote control via web interface, etc?

The comcast installer said that it's so the 6200 can act as a cable modem. Just plug your computer/router into it; no more need for a seperate devices for HSI. However, I'm not aware of it being active anywhere in the bay area yet.

I noticed that they plan on rolling out InHD1/2 to Milpitas/Los Gatos/Saratoga. I was under the impression that they were on a 550MHz system, like my Sunnyvale system, and that the were out of space for additional channels. So that leads me to wonder if they're planning on adding those channels, and/or anything else, to Sunnyvale at some point in the future. anybody hear anything?

If I switch to comcast in bay area from direct tv, what kinda promotions comcast offer?

My TV has cable card built in! Would I need additional equipment to get HD Cable? and HD DVR capability by cable?

Would I be able to spare my second HDMI that I am using for my HD TIVO?

Please advise?
thnx

I do need any Sports channel, just all HD, HD Recordability and HBO/SHOW TIME HD, STARZ HD etc should do, I do not need any extra movie channels, just HD Movie channels.

How much Monthly I am looking for?

If I switch to comcast in bay area from direct tv, what kinda promotions comcast offer?

My TV has cable card built in! Would I need additional equipment to get HD Cable? and HD DVR capability by cable?

Would I be able to spare my second HDMI that I am using for my HD TIVO?

Please advise?
thnx

I do need any Sports channel, just all HD, HD Recordability and HBO/SHOW TIME HD, STARZ HD etc should do, I do not need any extra movie channels, just HD Movie channels.

How much Monthly I am looking for?

If you decide to go that route, ask about the dish buyback deal. It's $25 discount for 16 months. You do have to subscribe to a minimum of their "Silver" package in order to get it. That would give you the HBO.

The salesperson/installer may or may not ask you for the dish equipment, but if they do be prepared to offer up a dead or worthless D* box. I certainly wouldn't give up something like an HD Tivo.

By the time you add in HD services, the box rental, etc. you're probably looking at $70+/mo with the discount.

If you decide to go that route, ask about the dish buyback deal. It's $25 discount for 16 months. You do have to subscribe to a minimum of their "Silver" package in order to get it. That would give you the HBO.

The salesperson/installer may or may not ask you for the dish equipment, but if they do be prepared to offer up a dead or worthless D* box. I certainly wouldn't give up something like an HD Tivo.

By the time you add in HD services, the box rental, etc. you're probably looking at $70+/mo with the discount.

I am paying $74 or so for my direct tv, no show time!?

Well, I dont have to make any commitments with cable, I guess? and can go pack with DIRECT if I wish laterz?

BTW!! Do I have to buy HD package or cable card gets it any ways?
I do have Local OTA HD tuner in my set too?

HD DVR for cable, what models are they using? Is it simillar to HD TIVO? and Does it has HDMI out?

I am paying $74 or so for my direct tv, no show time!?

Well, I dont have to make any commitments with cable, I guess? and can go pack with DIRECT if I wish laterz?

BTW!! Do I have to buy HD package or cable card gets it any ways?
I do have Local OTA HD tuner in my set too?

HD DVR for cable, what models are they using? Is it simillar to HD TIVO? and Does it has HDMI out?

No contract with Comcast. You can get Showtime instead of HBO at that price, or for more money in a higher priced package, you get both.

The cable card thing is a can of worms and since I haven't tried it yet, best to check the cable card thread for others experiences.

They use the Motorola 6412 in the SF Bay Area. Currently has DVI connector, but the newer model rolling out in a few weeks will have HDMI.

The I-guide is certainly not Tivo, but it's functional and fairly responsive. Does everything I need/want it to do.

I noticed that they plan on rolling out InHD1/2 to Milpitas/Los Gatos/Saratoga. I was under the impression that they were on a 550MHz system, like my Sunnyvale system, and that the were out of space for additional channels. So that leads me to wonder if they're planning on adding those channels, and/or anything else, to Sunnyvale at some point in the future. anybody hear anything?

Comcast freed up enough bandwidth in saramilgatos by converting all of the digital channels to 256QAM (from 64QAM)....They are also doing the same in S'vale, but I'm not sure if its along the same timeline or lagging a little. Sept 7th is the big day for saramilgatos...perhaps you'll see it in S'vale also (or hopefully not too long after that, my parents are also in the 550Mhz area of S'vale). If not, hopefully we can get an update from Mr Johnson on the timeline for Sunnyvale.

BTW!! Do I have to buy HD package or cable card gets it any ways?

The CableCARD will pass all un-ecrypted channels and de-crypt any digital channels you have subscribed to. Functionality of CableCARD in this area is primarily dependent on the display being used. Comcast in the bay area seems to know what they are doing on their end when it comes to CableCARD. The problems I recall have been with a display that has needed a firmware update. I have a CableCARD and it's worked flawlessly after having a FW applied to my display.

There is no "HD package" per se, the HD channels come with whatever programming package you have, it's dependent on whether you have an HD display whether they will show or not.

By the time you add in HD services, the box rental, etc. you're probably looking at $70+/mo with the discount.$62, including tax, for Digital Silver and 1 HD DVR.

http://dctdctator.textamerica.com/

Check out the new fan

http://dctdctator.textamerica.com/

Check out the new fan
Have you played with it yet?
How noisy is the fan?
Does the SATA port work?

Inquiring minds want to know about these and all the other wonderful things about Comcast's new toy.... :p :D

Have you played with it yet?
How noisy is the fan?
Does the SATA port work?

Inquiring minds want to know about these and all the other wonderful things about Comcast's new toy.... :p :D

Just cracked a case today to get some spy shots :cool:.

Actually, had to grab some photos for a mass email alerting people to the things that are different. Should see one in action on Friday. What can I buy (on an expense account - ha ha) to test the SATA? Everyone I've told has asked "What's that for?"

Just cracked a case today to get some spy shots :cool:.

Actually, had to grab some photos for a mass email alerting people to the things that are different. Should see one in action on Friday. What can I buy (on an expense account - ha ha) to test the SATA? Everyone I've told has asked "What's that for?"


ooooooo......shots with the hood up. I wanna see :D

Me too... :)

As far as a Ext SATA drive, they're not cheap from what I've heard, I think around $150 is the entry price doing a net search..

You could try one of these adapters I suppose,

http://www.tigerdirect.com/applications/SearchTools/search.asp?keywords=external+sata&image1.x=5&image1.y=7
Search Results for external sata at TigerDirect.com

$62, including tax, for Digital Silver and 1 HD DVR.

Thanks! I'll give it a try, but definately want HDMI HD DVR!

I am using a TIVO NON HD DVR in another room, do I have to buy/ rent DVR for all rooms from cable? or one works for all?

I am seeing a Scientific Atlanta DVR with 160GB Hard Drive and a Motrola with Dual tuner 120 GB..Which one is better and have HDMI out?

I am seeing a Scientific Atlanta DVR with 160GB Hard Drive and a Motrola with Dual tuner 120 GB..Which one is better and have HDMI out?
Comcast uses Motorola equipment in the SF bay area so you will be getting a Motorola 6412 if you choose to get a DVR from Comcast.

oh, I see and that does not have HDMI! Am I right?

Phase 3 will have HDMI, it's coming soon to a theater near you. :)

oh, I see and that does not have HDMI! Am I right?

The new version due to roll out in a few weeks has HDMI.

Think they will have all the bugs worked out this time? =)

Think they will have all the bugs worked out this time? =)

Will the new boxes actually have newer software? I can see needing newer firmware for HDMI and what not but would they actually put newer software on these boxes but not the existing 6412's?

I received a guide message yesterday announcing the addition of 30 new digital FM music channels on Aug 29th. Anyone know what this is about? Are these regular local FM station broadcasts?

I received a guide message yesterday announcing the addition of 30 new digital FM music channels on Aug 29th. Anyone know what this is about? Are these regular local FM station broadcasts?
They are adding back the analog FM stations they eliminated earlier this year, but now will be digital so you can't use your FM tuner, STB only.

Will the new boxes actually have newer software? I can see needing newer firmware for HDMI and what not but would they actually put newer software on these boxes but not the existing 6412's?

This is a totally redesigned box, although it is called 6412 phase three. The achitecture of the CPU is changed. So the bugs will be different too. :cool:

Any one from bay area? Is it out yet?

Not sure about the bay area, but I am in the New England are and they are just now becoming available for my local cable provider(COX) and I'm pretty sure comcast and cox use the same moto dvr's! I just had mine swapped for the new one( DCT 6412 Phase 3) it has HDMI output and allows recording of HD programming! Very nice! Ask around!

I've had the new Motorola 6412 phase III box (w/ the HDMI port) for a little over a week. I have it connected to my plasma via the HDMI port. Here are my observations when compared with the previous 6412 box using the DVI port.

1. Tuner on the phase III box is slower. Video is almost as fast as the older 6412's. However, there is much more of an audio delay, when changing channels. Very annoying.
2. On HD channels (especially Discovery HD), the previous 6412 produced noticeably better PQ on my Panny 50PX50U than the phase III box does. PQ for standard digital and analog channels are about the same between these two boxes.
3. For some reason, the Phase III box (even with its cooling fan) runs a little hotter than the previous 6412 (which I believe did not have a cooling fan?).

I'm already on my second phase III box. Therefore, I doubt having a defective unit is the reason for these shortcomings. I'm starting to think the scaler/electronics on the older 6412 are better than on the phase III.

I think I'm going to switch back to the older 6412 box.

As an update, I returned my second phase III box to Comcast and was going to go back to the older 6412, but decided at the last moment to give the phase III one last chance. Took home my third phase III and WOW!!!! All the HD channels look absolutely stunning again, on both the 1080i and 720p output setting (with the slight edge going to the 1080i output).

You know what they say... third time's the charm!

TitanTV has INHD programming now on the INHDs in Milpitas area, i'm wondering if it's already been turned on although officially it will be on 9/7.

Anyone from milpitas had a try? what channels if it's there already?

BXZ

TitanTV has INHD programming now on the INHDs in Milpitas area, i'm wondering if it's already been turned on although officially it will be on 9/7.

Anyone from milpitas had a try? what channels if it's there already?

BXZ

When it comes on it should be on channels 719 and 720. I tried it and still not active and I'd be really suprised if it came on earlier than the 7th, but then again Comcast has suprised me before.. :)

Laters,
Mikef5

I consulted those guys too, DIGITAL SILVER WITH HBO, one DVR, $76/month

Anyone have a good resource for the upcoming TV season. I had one last year, which listed all the shows (new and returning), broadcast channels, days of the weeks, and what was HD. Also, when the new season would begin for those shows.

Just wondering...

Phase 3 will have HDMI, it's coming soon to a theater near you. :)

Any chance that us people with basic and HD or expanded basic with HD ever get to the HD DVR units?

Russ

If we use cable card, and use sony's new DVR with HDMI and cable card, do we get Premium channels free, with basic digital cable?

Any chance that us people with basic and HD or expanded basic with HD ever get to the HD DVR units?

Russ

huh?..not quite sure what you mean...but there's no reason you cant get a 6412 if you pay for it (incl phase III units after the Dictator finishes his testing)

If we use cable card, and use sony's new DVR with HDMI and cable card, do we get Premium channels free, with basic digital cable?


nope...

the cablecard is programmed by Comcast to control what channels you get...just like they would with a Digital STB (based on the level of service you subscribe to...)

huh?..not quite sure what you mean...but there's no reason you cant get a 6412 if you pay for it (incl phase III units after the Dictator finishes his testing)

You have to have digital cable in order to get the DVR in the past, even if you have the HD Package, they wont let you order the DVR. I'm sure it will work from a technical perspective, but from a policy they don't allow it.

For people with Basic + HD, that would be a trippling of cable costs just to go to the DVR. ($17 Basic + $5 HD = $22 vs $55 Digital Classic + $10 HDDVR = $65)

I think that's just too much, unless you have a way for me to get one for $5 or $10 more to my current bill.

Russell

Be specific with topic titles, see my edit.

You have to have digital cable in order to get the DVR in the past, even if you have the HD Package, they wont let you order the DVR. I'm sure it will work from a technical perspective, but from a policy they don't allow it.

For people with Basic + HD, that would be a trippling of cable costs just to go to the DVR. ($17 Basic + $5 HD = $22 vs $55 Digital Classic + $10 HDDVR = $65)

I think that's just too much, unless you have a way for me to get one for $5 or $10 more to my current bill.

Russell

okay..got it now...sorry about that.

I cant remember, can you get away with with Basic + Digital Classic Tier (~$27 + $10 DVR)?

I'm sure its a marketing decision...they are losing money on the $10 DVR Hardware charge and are trying to make it up by requiring a minimum subscription (although $55 does seem high)

Anyone have a good resource for the upcoming TV season. I had one last year, which listed all the shows (new and returning), broadcast channels, days of the weeks, and what was HD. Also, when the new season would begin for those shows.

Just wondering...
CPanther95 did an Excel spreadsheet of the schedule with all the shows with designations on what's new and what's HD. Be sure to look through the whole thread as the versions towards the end of the thread are probably the most useful. I converted some of his work to PDF which is also in the thread.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=568010
Fall 2005 Network Schedule - Excel Spreadsheet - AVS Forum

Thanks keenan! That's exactly what I was looking for. I checked briefly in that forum, but figured it would have been a sticky if it existed. Thanks again!

Has anyone had problems with taping Giants games on 720? I had it record tonight, and when I went to watch it at about 9:45, the darn thing skipped from 7:05 to the end of the game as if nothing had recorded.

As it turns out, I probably saved myself a lot of yelling at the TV by not watching the game, but I'd like to be able to record reliably.

Any chance that us people with basic and HD or expanded basic with HD ever get to the HD DVR units?

RussI have Limited Basic + HD(6200) + Digital Silver, about $50/mo+tax and they still wont allow me to get a DVR. They are still insisting on Standard cable (Limited Basic + Expanded Basic), crappy analog signals for a huge price.

Does anyone have any idea where the conversion process stands for the Pittburg/Bay Point area of Comcast... I.E. GhettoCast.

I'd really like to watch WGN and even, god forbid, FSN HD.

Thanks,
Fitprod.

I have Limited Basic + HD(6200) + Digital Silver, about $50/mo+tax and they still wont allow me to get a DVR. They are still insisting on Standard cable (Limited Basic + Expanded Basic), crappy analog signals for a huge price.

How much extra to add Expanded Basic to your selection, so you can then rent the DVR for $5/month?

peter

How much extra to add Expanded Basic to your selection, so you can then rent the DVR for $5/month?

peter$29.50
Ridiculous

That's a real scam. To qualify for the satellite equipment trade-in I also had to subscribe to their Expanded Basic. That was kind of a shell game or three card monty. Once the $25 discount for the satellite trade-in went away I cancelled Expanded Basic. So now I don't get any news channels. I think they once included Headline News in the Basic line-up but took it was so they could include more shopping channels (just what we need).

They need to come up with whole new plans for HD owners and requiring us to pay for programming we'll never watch due to poor picture quality is a real rip-off.

I don't mind paying more for packages to get the DVR. I pay $28.95 more for Digital Silver which is $.51 short of what they want for Expanded Basic. You would think good business would dictate that DVR eligibility would be based on a dollar amount rather than paying for a package that I don't even want.

I don't mind paying more for packages to get the DVR. I pay $28.95 more for Digital Silver which is $.51 short of what they want for Expanded Basic. You would think good business would dictate that DVR eligibility would be based on a dollar amount rather than paying for a package that I don't even want.

does digital silver come with hbo high def? may be you can use new sony's dvd recorder with cable card to record?

does digital silver come with hbo high def? may be you can use new sony's dvd recorder with cable card to record?I guess you can get any of the HD premiums offered, I have Starz with Comcast and HBO with Directv. Is Sony about to release a HD DVD recorder? I know they have the DHG-HDD500 hard drive recorder.

Sony released 2 new HD DVRs. They are kinda expensive, at least for me.

Sony DVRs (http://www.sonystyle.com/is-bin/INTERSHOP.enfinity/eCS/Store/en/-/USD/SY_BrowseCatalog-Start?CategoryName=tvhav_HDDVRs&Dept=tvvideo)

Sony released 2 new HD DVRs. They are kinda expensive, at least for me.

Sony DVRs (http://www.sonystyle.com/is-bin/INTERSHOP.enfinity/eCS/Store/en/-/USD/SY_BrowseCatalog-Start?CategoryName=tvhav_HDDVRs&Dept=tvvideo)

There is a big discussion thread on them in the HDTV Recorders and Players section - bottom line is that people are happy with everything except the electronic program guide (EPG) which is supposed to suck.... The one person who likes it was coming from a VCR - the people who hate it come from Tivo.

Peter
p.s. shop around online and you'll get much cheaper prices that recommended retail

From what I remember when reading through some of that Sony thread is that there were quite a few issues with CableCARD and that DVR. Comcast in the bay area seems to know what they are doing when it comes the CC so it may not be an issue here.

Why doesn't the SONY DVR have firewire input?

Has anyone had problems with taping Giants games on 720? I had it record tonight, and when I went to watch it at about 9:45, the darn thing skipped from 7:05 to the end of the game as if nothing had recorded.

As it turns out, I probably saved myself a lot of yelling at the TV by not watching the game, but I'd like to be able to record reliably.

The "Midgets" (formerly Giants) are obviously a waste of time this year and the DVR has a smart chip knowing when not to waste space on its limited hard drive.

I have had a few problems in the past recording A's games on 719 or 720. Sometimes it will record everything, but I can't make use of any of the skip or FF functions. I think once or twice it simply didn't record properly. It showed as being recorded but couldn't play it back and had a hell of a time erasing it.

...mike (A's season ticket holder for 20 years. I was at Candlestick when the "big one" hit.)

The "Midgets" (formerly Giants) are obviously a waste of time this year and the DVR has a smart chip knowing when not to waste space on its limited hard drive.

I have had a few problems in the past recording A's games on 719 or 720. Sometimes it will record everything, but I can't make use of any of the skip or FF functions. I think once or twice it simply didn't record properly. It showed as being recorded but couldn't play it back and had a hell of a time erasing it.

...mike (A's season ticket holder for 20 years. I was at Candlestick when the "big one" hit.)

I posted a way to fix this problem a while back let me repost for you.

All you need to do is make manual recordings, starting at like 7:04(at least a few minutes after the broadcast time starts). The problem occurs because of your recording while it switched feeds. You'll notice your messed up recordings usually start on other InHD2 programming before they turn into the A's/Warriors game. Should they fix it? YES. But it's easy to work around and I still highly appriciate that comcast is the ONLY way to get HD Athletics and Warriors coverage.

Giants fans are welcome to ignore the preceeding message.

!!! Update to Iguide to occur this month !!!
____________________________________________________________ _____

Effective on 9/15/05, an updated version of the on-screen guide will be downloaded to customers with HDTV-capable boxes

What is Happening:

A "Maintenance Release" will occur on DCTs that currently have the "blue" on-screen guide.

Also, a new On-Screen Program Guide (Version A22.1, also known as iGuide) will be launched to High Definition Boxes.

What is a “Maintenance Release”?

A “Maintenance Release” is a version of the guide that is designed to fix errors, and not to introduce new features.

The maintenance release of the guide will be downloaded to customers’ boxes overnight during a designated maintenance window.

If all goes well, customers should not even be aware that they received the maintenance release of the guide.

Summary of the Maintenance Release:

VOD Emergency Alert System

If an Emergency Alert System (EAS) event occurs while a customer is watching a VOD program, the EAS message may not be successfully delivered with full video and audio, and/or the customer may not be returned to their VOD program after the message is delivered. (Bug occurred only on HDTV-capable boxes.)

Key Queuing Error

The system doesn’t respond when remote keys are pressed. Then, after 10 – 60 seconds, the remote commands are all executed in rapid sequence. (Bug occurred only on HDTV-capable boxes.)

Customer Impacts:

As a result of this upgrade, the LED screen on the impacted digital boxes may revert to showing Channel Number.

Customers who had previously set this up to show time will need to redo those settings through the Main Menu on the guide.

To reactivate the Current Time feature:

Press Menu on your remote, and then select the first icon on the bottom of the screen on the left (the one with the house on it) to go to the main menu. You can also get to the main menu by pressing the Menu button twice.

Select Setup.

Select Cable Box Setup. On this screen, the first line will read Front LED Display, and next to it on the right, the button should read Current Channel. Press the right arrow key on your remote to display the button reading Current Time, and press Okay/Select on your remote. The time will now be displayed on your cable box.

As a result of this upgrade, the text in the new guide will revert to the English Language.

Customers who have previously set up the text in their guide for a Spanish Language preference will need to redo those settings through the Main Menu on the guide.

To reactivate the Spanish Language option:

Press Menu on your remote, and then select the first icon on the bottom of the screen on the left (the one with the house on it) to go to the main menu. You can also get to the main menu by pressing the Menu button twice.

Select Setup.

Select Text Language Setup (last button in the column on the left).

Select Espanol - other choices are English (US), English (Canada) and Francais.

A screen will appear with a message saying “Language Confirm”. This process will change all on-screen menus and prompts to Espanol. It will take a few minutes to update”.

Select the option for “Change Text Language”. The screen will revert to the show you are watching, and it may take anywhere from 5 to 30 minutes for the menus to be switched to Spanish. If you press the menu button during this time, a screen will appear with the following message: "Un momento por favor. Esta opcion esta siendo restaurada y pronto estara disponsible. Gracias por su paciencia”. Once the process is complete, when you press the menu button, the menus will appear in Spanish. (Please keep in mind that the titles of programs that are broadcast in English will still be listed in the Guide in English).

Directions in Spanish:

Pesione Menu en su control remoto, y enseguida seleccione el primer icono en la parte inferior de la pantalla a la izquierda (el que contiene una casa) para ir al menu principal.

Seleccione Setup (Configurar).

Seleccione Text Language Setup (Configurar el Idioma del Texto) (el ultimo botón en la columna izquierda).

Seleccione Español - otras opciones son English (US), English (Canada) y Francais.

Una pantalla aparecerá con este mensaje: "Language Confirm. This process will change all on-screen menus and prompts to Espanol. It will take a few minutes to update". (Confirmación de Idioma. Este proceso cambiará todos los menús en pantalla al español. Tomará varios minutos para procesar el cambio).

Seleccione la opción "Change Text Language" (Cambie el Idioma del Texto). La pantalla volverá al show que está viendo. Podría tomar de 5 a 30 minutos para que los menús cambien al español. Si presiona el botón del menú durante este tiempo aparecerá una pantalla con este mensaje: "Un momento por favor. Esta opción está siendo restaurada y pronto estará disponsible. Gracias por su paciencia”. Una vez terminado el proceso, y cuando usted presione el botón del menú, los menús aparecerán en español. (Favor de tener en cuenta que los títulos de los programas que se transmiten en inglés continuarán siendo listados en inglés en la guía).

Parental Controls and Favorite Channel settings should NOT be impacted by this change, however customers who have these features set up may want to review them after the upgrade as a cautionary measure.

If a customer is watching TV when the Upgrade occurs:

The box will download the code in the background, while the customer is watching TV. Once complete, the box will shut itself off. The customer can turn the box back on and the new guide will be present. All the channels will show "TBA" for all channel listings, but will begin to populate with programming data quickly.

If the customer's box is off when the upgrade occurs:

The customer won't notice anything. The box may make a "click" sound once the download process is complete, but when they wake up in the morning and turn the box on it will have the new guide, fully populated

____________________________________________________________ _______

So Comcast is listening to the problems that have occurred with these boxes and is going to be doing an upgrade to the software. Thanks to Mr. J. for the info.

Laters,
Mikef5

!!! Update to Iguide to occur this month !!!
____________________________________________________________ _____

Key Queuing Error

The system doesn’t respond when remote keys are pressed. Then, after 10 – 60 seconds, the remote commands are all executed in rapid sequence. (Bug occurred only on HDTV-capable boxes.)


This will definitely be nice to have fixed.

This will definitely be nice to have fixed.

Hear hear!

I posted a way to fix this problem a while back let me repost for you.

Giants fans are welcome to ignore the preceeding message.

Thot I have read all the messages here. Thanks for the info again.

...mike

O.K. - 9th inning. One out. Hoping my A's would come from behind. Recording "Casablanca" at the same time.

Then Comcast freezes everything by posting an "alert". I can see disrupting every TV channel for imminent flood, hurricane, enemy attack warnings in a very particular area - but anyone who is driving and watching TV to be on the look out for something has mjor problems of his own. This is one advantage of sat. over cable.
The TV programming did return in probably 3-4 minutes. The recording of the movie was messsed up - wound up only recording the first 32 min. and then 5 one minute segments all listed as "Casablanca" but was something else.

Worst of all - it came back on in time to show the A's lost.

...mike

P.S. As I recall, don't OTA channels simply show bulletins as "crawls" across the bottom of the screen?

O.K. - 9th inning. One out. Hoping my A's would come from behind. Recording "Casablanca" at the same time.

Then Comcast freezes everything by posting an "alert". I can see disrupting every TV channel for imminent flood, hurricane, enemy attack warnings in a very particular area - but anyone who is driving and watching TV to be on the look out for something has mjor problems of his own. This is one advantage of sat. over cable.
The TV programming did return in probably 3-4 minutes. The recording of the movie was messsed up - wound up only recording the first 32 min. and then 5 one minute segments all listed as "Casablanca" but was something else.

Worst of all - it came back on in time to show the A's lost.

...mike

P.S. As I recall, don't OTA channels simply show bulletins as "crawls" across the bottom of the screen?

That is not a Comcast thing, it's required for them to do it when it is issued and no the OTA channels do it also. I checked when it happened and they all did the same thing. Sorry the A's lost but me being a Giants fan I can feel your pain :D
it's just hard to get use to.

Laters,
Mikef5

Also, a new On-Screen Program Guide (Version A22.1, also known as iGuide) will be launched to High Definition Boxes. Does thiis mean that the 5100 and 6200 will finally get iguide?

Count me as another one frustrated by the unnecessary disruption caused by Comcast's inept implementation of the Amber "Alert" last night.

I was using the dual tuner feature last night to skip back and forth between the A's game and Rock Star:INXS. I was about 10-15 minutes behind on Rock Star. Not only did the alert send a huge pop and blaring noise surge through my high end audio system which could have easily fried my tweeters, it purged the buffer on the PVR so I missed the both the end of the A's game and a considerable portion of Rock Star. Couldn't a scrolling banner get the same message across without the disruption and potentially damaging audio noise?

I quickly switched over to my old DirecTV box during the three - four minute interruption and Rock Star was continuing uninteruppted, so it is definitely a Comcast thing! This is just about the last straw for me and Comcast.

Rant mode:
I just recently reactivated my DirecTV account with their nearly free HD Tivo offer because of Comcast's paltry HD lineup and subpar DVR. It's bad enough that Comcast refuses to offer HD A's and Giants games in my area (550 mHz in San Leandro), but their buggy hardware and brain-dead customer service have finally driven me away forever. I was planning on keeping Comcast's limited basic service until DirecTV implements the MPEG-4 locals, but I just called today to cancel their service completely. I will never go back to Comcast after my experiences with them over the last year.

Comcast originally lured me away from DirecTV with the false promise of A's and Giants in HD, but they never delivered. And I can't tell you what a relief and joy it is to go back to the Tivo interface after putting up with the Comcast DVR for far too long. By going back to DirecTV, my HD content instantly doubled over Comcast's pathetic HD offerings, and my total bill went down to boot! For those of you in the 550 mHZ areas and willing to put up an OTA antenna, I strongly encourage you to go with DirecTV.

I know that DirecTV plans on phasing out the Tivo on their new MPEG4 equipment, but if you can get a good OTA signal the thing should be functional for years to come.

Rant mode:
I just recently reactivated my DirecTV account with their nearly free HD Tivo offer because of Comcast's paltry HD lineup and subpar DVR. It's bad enough that Comcast refuses to offer HD A's and Giants games in my area (550 mHz in San Leandro),
And Comcast doesn't even have the decency to charge us less for our crippled HD and SD lineup, I've seen listings of channels in this thread that I never knew Comcast even carried.

I picked up one of those HD TiVo's as well, cost me $33... :p

(ESPN2-HD starts on DirecTV in 8 days) :D

Quote:
Originally Posted by Mikef5
!!! Update to Iguide to occur this month !!!
____________________________________________________________ _____

Key Queuing Error

The system doesn’t respond when remote keys are pressed. Then, after 10 – 60 seconds, the remote commands are all executed in rapid sequence. (Bug occurred only on HDTV-capable boxes.)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I figured this was a Motorola firmware problem, since we have the same bug with the MSFT guide in Seattle. Hope the solution is imminent for all of us.

Did you say HD Tivo box for dirctv for $33? Where when how?

(ESPN2-HD starts on DirecTV in 8 days) :D

and InHD1, InHD2 and FSNBA-HD Start in Saratoga, Milpitas and Los Gatos in 7 ;)

ps..doesnt look like Sunnyvale will get it in this round, hopefully soon though (at least we know they will be before Santa Rosa :eek:

Did you say HD Tivo box for dirctv for $33? Where when how?
That price depends on a lot of factors, look through this thread and see what people have done,

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=569538
DirecTV HD Tivo - $199 after Rebate - AVS Forum

and InHD1, InHD2 and FSNBA-HD Start in Saratoga, Milpitas and Los Gatos in 7 ;)

ps..doesnt look like Sunnyvale will get it in this round, hopefully soon though (at least we know they will be before Santa Rosa :eek:
Yeah, that's the thing, after awhile you just get tired of waiting...and paying the same GD price that people who are and have been getting it are paying....the largest city north of San Francisco and we have the crappiest cable system..

Okay, that covers my monthly bashing of Comcast... :p :D

(P.S. Did I mention that for the first time ever on US television an HD transfer of Blade Runner will be shown on HDNet Sept 3..? ) :)

Count me as another one frustrated by the unnecessary disruption caused by Comcast's inept implementation of the Amber "Alert" last night.

I was using the dual tuner feature last night to skip back and forth between the A's game and Rock Star:INXS. I was about 10-15 minutes behind on Rock Star. Not only did the alert send a huge pop and blaring noise surge through my high end audio system which could have easily fried my tweeters, it purged the buffer on the PVR so I missed the both the end of the A's game and a considerable portion of Rock Star. Couldn't a scrolling banner get the same message across without the disruption and potentially damaging audio noise?

Same thing happened to me (although it was Seinfeld and the A's game). I am all for sending the Amber Alert...I think it really can help. However the least Comcast could do is keep the buffer going. I think what happens is the box essentially gets "taken over" -- almost like it was turned off. Then when the alert is over, it gets "turned back on".

and InHD1, InHD2 and FSNBA-HD Start in Saratoga, Milpitas and Los Gatos in 7

ps..doesnt look like Sunnyvale will get it in this round, hopefully soon though (at least we know they will be before Santa Rosa

Hell, Direct TV will see InHD1, InHD2 and FSNBA-HD before Ghettocast out here in BayPoint... As soon as D* has the locals in HD, supposedly November, I truly done with Comcast.

Same thing happened to me (although it was Seinfeld and the A's game). I am all for sending the Amber Alert...I think it really can help. However the least Comcast could do is keep the buffer going. I think what happens is the box essentially gets "taken over" -- almost like it was turned off. Then when the alert is over, it gets "turned back on".

Fender,

It doesn't matter if Comcast kept the buffer running or not, it's the stations that send out the Amber Alert not Comcast. What you see on Comcast is what the stations are transmitting. So any problems with the Amber Alert needs to be taken to the stations and they are required to send out the message when it is activated. It's a pain when you are recording or watching something but there is a reason for this alert and a good reason in my opinion.

Laters,
Mikef5

Fender,

It doesn't matter if Comcast kept the buffer running or not, it's the stations that send out the Amber Alert not Comcast. What you see on Comcast is what the stations are transmitting. So any problems with the Amber Alert needs to be taken to the stations and they are required to send out the message when it is activated. It's a pain when you are recording or watching something but there is a reason for this alert and a good reason in my opinion.

Laters,
Mikef5

Mike,

Comcast also sends out some type of Amber Alert when directed by OES and CHP to do so. On the digital cable boxes, it completely blocks out the program you are watching, and broadcasts the Amber Alert instead. Jacks up whatever you are recording at the time, also.

Mike,

Comcast also sends out some type of Amber Alert when directed by OES and CHP to do so. On the digital cable boxes, it completely blocks out the program you are watching, and broadcasts the Amber Alert instead. Jacks up whatever you are recording at the time, also.

I think Nightowl is right. If Comast wasn't doing anything and it was just what the networks were showing then a) the buffer wouldn't be lost because what the networks are showing has nothing to do with how the DVR records, and b) as Nightowl said, the DVR wouldn't totally lock down and I could rewind, fast forward, etc. I remember a few months ago, an Amber Alert came on while I was recording and it actually split the recording into 2 parts -- the same thing that happens if you turn your DVR off in the middle of a recording.

!!! Update to Iguide to occur this month !!!
____________________________________________________________ _____

Effective on 9/15/05, an updated version of the on-screen guide will be downloaded to customers with HDTV-capable boxes

Thanks for the update. I have two questions:

1. Is this a nationwide update or local to your area?

2. Would you know what version the i-Guide will be taken to?

BTW, the A22, A23, A24 are internal GuideWorks versions and not published in the i-Guide diagnostics.

I think Nightowl is right. If Comast wasn't doing anything and it was just what the networks were showing then a) the buffer wouldn't be lost because what the networks are showing has nothing to do with how the DVR records, and b) as Nightowl said, the DVR wouldn't totally lock down and I could rewind, fast forward, etc. I remember a few months ago, an Amber Alert came on while I was recording and it actually split the recording into 2 parts -- the same thing that happens if you turn your DVR off in the middle of a recording.

Well, if these things work like I think they work, these boxes record what is being sent to them. If an Amber Alert is sent by the station then it would record that alert, why Comcast locks the box so you can't change the channels I don't know but if they didn't all you would get is the alert that is being sent by the station, it interrupts the normal show with this alert. When this alert happened I switched to my OTA set up and all the stations were showing the alert, I could change channels and such but the alert was on all the major stations so what good would it do to be able to record ???
I blast Comcast as much as I can when I think they are a fault but this is something they have no control over. The problem with it locking the box down though might be how the alert affects their system and that is something you need to talk to Comcast about. Trust me they do read this forum and for the most part they listen to what is being said and try to take action when they can but you have to let them know when you are having a problem with something that they are doing, they do listen.

Laters,
Mikef5

Thanks for the update. I have two questions:

1. Is this a nationwide update or local to your area?

2. Would you know what version the i-Guide will be taken to?

BTW, the A22, A23, A24 are internal GuideWorks versions and not published in the i-Guide diagnostics.

This is just for the local area here in S.F. Bay area

As far as the version numbers, I only quote what the message from Mr. Johnson said so if he is using their internal numbers then I guess that's what they are :)

Laters,
Mikef5

Trust me they do read this forum and for the most part they listen to what is being said and try to take action when they can but you have to let them know when you are having a problem with something that they are doing, they do listen.

Laters,
Mikef5
I usually have problems with the things they aren't doing. ;) :D

(yeah, I know, you guys are getting tired of my whining....tough! :D )

If I order basic cable and cable card will I be getting high defination channels too?

This is just for the local area here in S.F. Bay area



Laters,
Mikef5
Did Mr. J say that? It could be happening in other systems...

If I order basic cable and cable card will I be getting high defination channels too?
Yes, you should get KPIX, KGO, KTVU, KNTV and KQED. Depending on the system you're on, you may also get Discovery-HD and ESPN-HD in the clear.

Did Mr. J say that? It could be happening in other systems...

The info that I get from Mr. J is just for our Bay Area, ( I really don't care about other areas other that our own :D )
So it could be happening in other areas but I just don't know. Some of the areas don't have the Motorola boxes, some don't have Iguide.......etc.... It seems like every area is operated like a separtate franchise with nothing the same even in that franchise. It would be nice if they could standardize the whole system so that the intergration of the different areas would be alot smoother. I know they took over a mess from TCI and AT&T and that's were most of the problems are coming from now, I know because my brother worked for TCI when they were running the show. For now I just want to watch the Giants lose in HD, later, after baseball season, I'll be bugging Comcast for VOD and more HD :eek:
And Keenan, keep on whining that's the only way to get what you want :)

Laters,
Mikef5

Did Mr. J say that? It could be happening in other systems...

I got a memo too, from the coordinators of the update. It's a BA thing. Like firmware updates, they roll out gradually. Guess they don't want the limited resources swamped if something goes wrong all at once.

I get nearly everything Mikef5 gets to announce. Since I don't monitor the forum during work hours, he scoops anything I'd say (with a sanctions too).

SB update, Phase IIIs should be going out by now. It's a hit or miss since they are mixed with refurbs.

Off Topic - anybody have a cheap source for a remote for a Replay 3000? I came into possesion of a dead unit, replaced the hard drive (initialization & imaging was easier than TiVo!!) and now have a DVR that needs no subscription, but the infamous DCT remote will not bring up the main menu. I have a Kameleon that will bring up the main menu but won't bring up the 'Recorded Shows" menu. ??

Well, if these things work like I think they work, these boxes record what is being sent to them. If an Amber Alert is sent by the station then it would record that alert, why Comcast locks the box so you can't change the channels I don't know but if they didn't all you would get is the alert that is being sent by the station, it interrupts the normal show with this alert. When this alert happened I switched to my OTA set up and all the stations were showing the alert, I could change channels and such but the alert was on all the major stations so what good would it do to be able to record ???
I blast Comcast as much as I can when I think they are a fault but this is something they have no control over. The problem with it locking the box down though might be how the alert affects their system and that is something you need to talk to Comcast about. Trust me they do read this forum and for the most part they listen to what is being said and try to take action when they can but you have to let them know when you are having a problem with something that they are doing, they do listen.

Laters,
Mikef5

I've been watching RECORDED programs before, and out of no place the recording stops, a black screen comes on, and an Amber Alert is broadcast. I have to go back to my PVR listing to start viewing the recording again. That's definitely a Comcast issue, not an issue with any particular channel. The one I'm specifically thinking about was an analog cable channel, not a local OTA channel.

I've been watching RECORDED programs before, and out of no place the recording stops, a black screen comes on, and an Amber Alert is broadcast. I have to go back to my PVR listing to start viewing the recording again. That's definitely a Comcast issue, not an issue with any particular channel. The one I'm specifically thinking about was an analog cable channel, not a local OTA channel.

Nightowl,

If you are talking about watching an already recorded program and then an Amber Alert is issued and stops the DVR from playing then that is totally different than what I was talking about and I think you are right about that being a problem with the Comcast box. Again, I don't know why the box locks up when the alert is issued but you would think that if you are watching a prerecorded program the alert shouldn't interfere with the function of the dvr showing a prerecorded program. Maybe Barovelli could shed some light on this problem ???

Laters,
Mikef5

I've been watching RECORDED programs before, and out of no place the recording stops, a black screen comes on, and an Amber Alert is broadcast. I have to go back to my PVR listing to start viewing the recording again. That's definitely a Comcast issue, not an issue with any particular channel. The one I'm specifically thinking about was an analog cable channel, not a local OTA channel.

It's all called the EAS (Emergency Alert System). I would not believe you if you told me back in 1984 that one day someone can flip a switch and send a message on every channel simultaneously.

I'm no expert on EAS, I'll either explain it right or at least open the topic. Without a DVR even in the equation, every cable channel is modulated with the EAS message. It's not one channel sending the message and the TV or STB locking in on the EAS channel. It is coming from the cable company, interuppting whatever programming is on, not from the TV station.

Now, with a DVR recording being halted to inform you: When this was thought up no one was thinking of DVRs, so it appears to be a kludge to get the EAS message to someone watching pre-recorded programming on the STB. Since the box is "the cable" and cable must transmit every EAS to all viewers, the easiest way is to stop the display of a recording and blast out the EAS.

Then the programmers went to lunch, and the thing was launched before they wrote code to resume watching the recording.

So, when is DBS going to do EAS? Localized EAS? Right. I'm writing my congressman.

Keep me away from the EAS machine. I'd be too tempted to type "All Your Base Are Belong To Us" into the CG. My hometown has a demon dialer that calls every resident in town to make announcements of importance. Last one was a 'mountain lion spotted alert'.

It's all called the EAS (Emergency Alert System). I would not believe you if you told me back in 1984 that one day someone can flip a switch and send a message on every channel simultaneously.

I'm no expert on EAS, I'll either explain it right or at least open the topic. Without a DVR even in the equation, every cable channel is modulated with the EAS message. It's not one channel sending the message and the TV or STB locking in on the EAS channel. It is coming from the cable company, interuppting whatever programming is on, not from the TV station.

Now, with a DVR recording being halted to inform you: When this was thought up no one was thinking of DVRs, so it appears to be a kludge to get the EAS message to someone watching pre-recorded programming on the STB. Since the box is "the cable" and cable must transmit every EAS to all viewers, the easiest way is to stop the display of a recording and blast out the EAS.

Then the programmers went to lunch, and the thing was launched before they wrote code to resume watching the recording.

So, when is DBS going to do EAS? Localized EAS? Right. I'm writing my congressman.

Keep me away from the EAS machine. I'd be too tempted to type "All Your Base Are Belong To Us" into the CG. My hometown has a demon dialer that calls every resident in town to make announcements of importance. Last one was a 'mountain lion spotted alert'.


Well, Mr B. I am no expert on this alert thing but I'm almost sure that the networks send out the alert because when the last alert went off I switched to OTA and all the major networks were showing the same Amber Alert so even if Comcast has it's own alert system the networks still all show the same alert at the same time as Comcast so recording is a mute point because the networks show the same alert and interrupt the scheduled programing. Boy, do you think we've beat this dead horse enough ???? :D

Laters,
Mikef5

I did some searching in this thread, found lots of stories on people having signal problems and using various techniques, but I couldn't find out what is actually considered acceptable, marginal, or poor values for SNR and AGC? Or perhaps the STB's ratings (good/fair/poor) are actually accurate?

I'm wondering since I've recently seen more problems crop up with my 6412 - occasional sound drops on DHD, LOTS of sound drops and occasional picture freezes on KTVU-HD, and a lots of blocking/freezing/what-have-you on a few other channels. I haven't changed anything relevant (wiring, the 1-to-2 splitter that Comcast provided for my Tivo), and didn't used to have these problems.

Last night I recorded the signal-to-noise (SNR) and AGC values for all (8! count 'em, 8!) HD channels, as shown in d04 diagnostic screen, for both tuners. SNR was anywhere from 30.7dB (279MHz, 723 ESPNHD, tuner 2) up to a max of 34.1dB (117MHz, 707 KGO-DT, tuner 1), with most being around 31dB. AGC was pretty much "poor" or occasionally "fair", best was 76%, worst was 82%. And these numbers were with "correctable errors" staying at 0 or occasionally going up a little bit, and "uncorrectable" at 0. I'd theorize that my numbers would be worse during a time of actual visible/audible problems.

so... what's the collective wisdom of what I should do? Should I call up comcast and do the wait-for-4-hours-for-a-tech thing? Would one of the amps like the Electroline be a good investment? Or are those numbers "normal" and I should look elsewhere/call comcast anyway to fix it all up? thanks in advance!

And Keenan, keep on whining that's the only way to get what you want :)
Or move.

so... what's the collective wisdom of what I should do? Should I call up comcast and do the wait-for-4-hours-for-a-tech thing? Would one of the amps like the Electroline be a good investment? Or are those numbers "normal" and I should look elsewhere/call comcast anyway to fix it all up? thanks in advance!
Your signal strength is a little low. Call Comcast to have them come out and check it before you go with a line amp. They may install one themselves and that way you won't have to pay for it. If they insist the signal is fine or you get tired of dealing with them the Electroline and the Motorola amps mentioned earlier work very well. I'm using a Moto amp and since I installed it I have not had a single problem with signal loss or breakup.

Or move.
Naw...whining is more fun.. :)

so... what's the collective wisdom of what I should do? Should I call up comcast and do the wait-for-4-hours-for-a-tech thing? Would one of the amps like the Electroline be a good investment? Or are those numbers "normal" and I should look elsewhere/call comcast anyway to fix it all up? thanks in advance!

Check here for some tips...

http://makeashorterlink.com/?T2A742DBB

Pretty sneaky, Mark... :p :D

Or move.

I tried the move thing once...Moved from 330Mhz in San Jose to 550Mhz in Saratoga 8 years ago (and it was worth it at the time)...Now San Jose is 860Mhz :( ...should I move back to San Jose :D

I am in San Francisco, and I currently have RCN. I have noticed alot of pixelation when when there is alot of motion in some of the HD movie channels, like Starz HD, or Showtime HD. I have even seen it on HBO HD. I was wondering if Comcast has the same issue? It is not noticeable all of the time, but on my 65" Mits, you can definitely see it. One of the things I like about RCN is that they have ND Net. I don't think that Comcast has HD Net?

Well, Mr B. I am no expert on this alert thing but I'm almost sure that the networks send out the alert because when the last alert went off I switched to OTA and all the major networks were showing the same Amber Alert so even if Comcast has it's own alert system the networks still all show the same alert at the same time as Comcast so recording is a mute point because the networks show the same alert and interrupt the scheduled programing. Boy, do you think we've beat this dead horse enough ???? :D

Laters,
Mikef5

Sorry to keep it going... :)

I'm wondering if this is something Comcast implemented on their own to be a little more socially responsible and prevent people from skipping over the alert. If there was some sort of local disaster, I don't think it would be in people's best interest to pause, rewind, or fast forward through an alert that could potentially save their life. The networks broadcast the alert for those who are receiving OTA or w/o a cable box, and Comcast doubles up the effort for those who do.

Okay, now it's really dead. :)

Your signal strength is a little low. Call Comcast to have them come out and check it before you go with a line amp. They may install one themselves and that way you won't have to pay for it. If they insist the signal is fine or you get tired of dealing with them the Electroline and the Motorola amps mentioned earlier work very well. I'm using a Moto amp and since I installed it I have not had a single problem with signal loss or breakup.

Thanks for confirming my suspicions. I'll give Comcast a call when I get the chance. Once they sort it out I'll take a peek at the new stats and post them for posterity.

See similar breakups on those channels, intermittently, with NYC's RCN, too. Rumor has it there are more HD channels for RCN on the way. If it's a bandwidth problem, hope further squeezing doesn't aggravate the breakups. So far, find RCN is delivering slightly crisper programming (1335 lines from HDNet's test patterns (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=5175424#post5175424)), compared to a 2nd source, TWC (1290 lines) with no significant breakups. Remarkable HDNet and Comcast can't ink a contract this far along. -- John

Hi,

today we are supposed to have INHD in milpitas area, i'm not sure it'll be encrypted or not, hopefully not, but i'm prepared, anyway since i'm using basic service now and wondering if $5 each month is all i need to get a cable card (my sharp has the slot) from comcast to receive the INHD if they are encrypted, or some high level service is needed before i can subscribe the HD program, according to their website, i didn't see the necessity.

thx
BXZ

INHD1 and 2 unwatchable in Milpitas

Well, so far we have INHD in Milpitas but it is so pixelated that it's unwatchable. Massive correctable errors at 68,000 and uncorrectable errors at 300 ( these fluxuate constantly ). Signal strenght is fluxuating from fair to no signal. I know it's still early and they are probably still trying to get things right so I'll wait until noon until I start becoming really upset. This is also affecting other channels, even Comcast's Sports Net is so pixelated that you can't watch it, not a good start for the day.
So anyone in the SaraMilgatos area, how are you receiviing INHD ?? and if it's like mine we'll need to contact the CSR's (argh !!!! ) and let then know that it's foobar.

Laters,
Mikef5

Hi,

today we are supposed to have INHD in milpitas area, i'm not sure it'll be encrypted or not, hopefully not, but i'm prepared, anyway since i'm using basic service now and wondering if $5 each month is all i need to get a cable card (my sharp has the slot) from comcast to receive the INHD if they are encrypted, or some high level service is needed before i can subscribe the HD program, according to their website, i didn't see the necessity.

thx
BXZ


InHD1/2 requires you have "Digital Classic", which is $9.95/mth....

of course if they dont encrypt it to start than you dont need anything...BTW ESPN-HD and Discovery HD are part of digital classic, so if you are seeing those its only because they havent set the encryption

INHD1 and 2 unwatchable in Milpitas

Well, so far we have INHD in Milpitas but it is so pixelated that it's unwatchable. Massive correctable errors at 68,000 and uncorrectable errors at 300 ( these fluxuate constantly ). Signal strenght is fluxuating from fair to no signal. I know it's still early and they are probably still trying to get things right so I'll wait until noon until I start becoming really upset. This is also affecting other channels, even Comcast's Sports Net is so pixelated that you can't watch it, not a good start for the day.
So anyone in the SaraMilgatos area, how are you receiviing INHD ?? and if it's like mine we'll need to contact the CSR's (argh !!!! ) and let then know that it's foobar.

Laters,
Mikef5


Mike,

I'm at work, but I just talked with the Wife at home in Saratoga and had her punch in 720/721 and they came up and she said they looked pretty good (she reminded me she's not as picking as I am, but she thought it looked pretty cool in the 2 minutes she looked at it)

-Steve

Mike,

I'm at work, but I just talked with the Wife at home in Saratoga and had her punch in 720/721 and they came up and she said they looked pretty good (she reminded me she's not as picking as I am, but she thought it looked pretty cool in the 2 minutes she looked at it)

-Steve

I just checked again and it's now viewable but it still has breakups about every 2 to 3 minutes. Hopefully they are still just tweaking the system.
Well, that didn't last to long, as I'm writing this 719 is breaking up big time, same on 720. I guess I need to wait a while longer to see if they fix the problem or I have to call again.

Laters,
Mikef5

All I get when I try to tune in INHD and INHD2 is the same channel I was on.. ;) :D

Ok, looks like they fixed the problems with INHD 1&2. Good signal levels and low correctable errors and no uncorrectable errors. Very nice picture, now I can watch the Giants lose in HD, just in time for the Dodger games... :)
I just noticed they show the A's also, Great a winning team to watch in HD.
So does anyone know what HD Special Events channel is ???

Laters,
Mikef5

All I get when I try to tune in INHD and INHD2 is the same channel I was on.. ;) :D

Keenan,
Sorry you guys in Santa Rosa aren't getting these channels but you guys can't be to far behind in getting them. I don't know the reason is since we're both on a 550 MHz system and it looks like the QAM conversion is completed, there must be some other factor that makes it harder to get those channels to you guys. I'll let you know if I can find out more about your area.

Laters,
Mikef5

At this point in time I could really care less if they add it as the baseball season is practically over. It would be nice to get by the time the NBA starts in Nov though, but again that's less than 2 months away and if there is no news by now I don't see that happening either. In fact, given the time of year I would rather see TNT-HD added instead of INHD. Getting Showtime-HD back would be nice as well.. :rolleyes:

Thanks for all the effort though and hopefully you'll get some good news. :)

(did I mention that ESPN2-HD starts on Friday on DirecTV...or the daily coverage on Universal-HD of the US Open has looked great...or that HDNet is showing Blade Runner in HD this month....or that DirecTV has announced free swapouts of HD receivers...? :D :D )

okay, I'm done...for now.. :p

The QAM conversion is not complete in the North Bay. They haven't completed phase 4 yet.

The QAM conversion is not complete in the North Bay. They haven't completed phase 4 yet.
I haven't checked in awhile but I probably will soon since the channel count up here is so small it will only take a couple of minutes... :p

Recently I wrote an EMail to Lori Daniel at KTVU asking why they don't broadcast the Giants games in HD. They have HD capability, and we know the cameras at SBC park are HD. So why don't they broadcast the games in HD? His (her?) response follows.

Of interest to this thread is the comment that Comcast is sponsoring (read picking up) the extra $$$ to broadcast the Giants and A's games in HD on InHD2/FSNBAHD. So here is a big THANK YOU COMCAST for sponsoring the HD games. Now if KTVU can just get a sponsor for all of the regular games next year....


But thanks for asking about HD games. Each game that we broadcast in HD costs almost double what a Standard Definition game costs, (to produce) so we have planned our HD schedule to include 10 HD games this season (we will broadcast 45-46 games this year). Fox Sports Bay Area has a sponsorship arrangement with Comcast this year, and that has enabled Fox Sports Bay Area to carry most of their games in HD. The Fox Network will have SOME of their Saturday games in HD, but not all of them each week. We hope that next year we will have a sponsor that is interested in helping to defray the costs of HD production, and that we can include more games in HD - our goal would be for the entire schedule to be in HD.

Greg

Recently I wrote an EMail to Lori Daniel at KTVU asking why they don't broadcast the Giants games in HD. They have HD capability, and we know the cameras at SBC park are HD. So why don't they broadcast the games in HD? His (her?) response follows.

Of interest to this thread is the comment that Comcast is sponsoring (read picking up) the extra $$$ to broadcast the Giants and A's games in HD on InHD2/FSNBAHD. So here is a big THANK YOU COMCAST for sponsoring the HD games. Now if KTVU can just get a sponsor for all of the regular games next year....



Greg
"The Fox Network will have SOME of their Saturday games in HD, but not all of them each week."

Just a note, Fox Network doesn't do any games in HD on Saturdays. The only HD games Fox Network does is the All-Star game and the post-season. Fox has an exclusivity arrangement with MLB during the Saturday time period so you won't see any games from anywhere in HD. Hopefully next year Fox Network will do their Saturday games in HD.

Still trying to determine if I can improve my non-digital stations’ reception, I went into the diagnostics menu on my 6412 box, and both SNR's looked "Good" at 33.9 and 33.2, and both AGC's (whatever that is!) were also "Good" at 53% and 44%...But, looking further, I went into the OOB diagnostics (whatever that is!) and the SNR there was 20.4 ("Good"), but the AGC there was only rated "Fair" at 42%. Is this a significant value that might account for poor analog reception?? All HD and digital channels look pretty good to me...Thanks

Hi-Def football?

Anyone have an idea of what we'll get to see in HD this year?

I know all the Sunday Night games on ESPN-HD, and Monday Night on KGO-DT should be (will be?) in HD but what of the KPIX/KTVU (Raiders/Niners/etc) games?

Hi-Def football?

Anyone have an idea of what we'll get to see in HD this year?

I know all the Sunday Night games on ESPN-HD, and Monday Night on KGO-DT should be (will be?) in HD but what of the KPIX/KTVU (Raiders/Niners/etc) games?
I believe we should see most if not all 49er FOX games in HD on 702, not sure about Raiders but check this out:
http://www.hdsportsguide.com/nfl.php

Anyone else have experience with Comcast and RCN? I am suer that it depends are where you live, so if anyone in SF could please respond?

Football is the perfect time to use the 30-second skip. Because the play clock is 30 seconds, you can hit the button right after the play finishes and you're taken right to the next snap. Love it!!! :D

OK, here is my problem. I can receive and view INHD and INHD2 during the day, but for some reason, in the evening, I get the "ONE MOMENT PLEASE" blue box. When I go into the diagnostic mode, these two channels don't even show a signal at all. They register as invalid - no SNR, no AGC, no frequency, etc...
I had this problem a while back with DiscoveryHD (722) and the Golf Channel (405), but those seem to work now.
I am on my third HD/DVR box right now (my last one kept resetting a few times per day and then downloading the whole program guide all over).
Any ideas would be appreciated. I haven't been able to get much help from the Comcast 1-800 number. They think it's my fault (bad wiring, too many outlets, etc...).
I am in Los Gatos (BTW, when I went into the Comcast office today to exchange my DVR, the guy at the desk mentioned he was surprised that Los Gatos didn't have On Demand. He was from Santa Cruz on temp assignment!!!! Even Santa Cruz is ahead of LG/Saratoga/etc...!!! Well, almost, except they don't have an ABCHD feed yet...)
Thanks.
Mike

Im in los gatos as well and havent had any problems with the new hd channels 719 and 720


I have had signal problems in the past and had some techs come out and do a good job of investigating and had some do some outside line work as well and the signal is much better now.

I would pursue getting techs out and get the ball rolling eventually they get it done

Mike,

do u know why comcast put the FSN HD on the same channel as INHD2 (720)? Is there a bandwidth problem? there're plenty of unused channel available.

according to Titan, the basball now showing should be on 719, but it's on 720 now, and nothing appears on 719 now.

bxz


Ok, looks like they fixed the problems with INHD 1&2. Good signal levels and low correctable errors and no uncorrectable errors. Very nice picture, now I can watch the Giants lose in HD, just in time for the Dodger games... :)
I just noticed they show the A's also, Great a winning team to watch in HD.
So does anyone know what HD Special Events channel is ???

Laters,
Mikef5

It's great to have 2 more HD channels, although I got no signal on 719 tonight (in Los Gatos).

Question: I got a second DVR from my Standard Def TV today and just for kicks I tried out the HdD channels. Low and behold, I get a nice, crisp letterboxed signal. I was surprised-- don't I need an HD TV to accept the HD signals? These were definitely HD shows, too-- I got a signal from every HD channel (except 719 per above). Am I seeing the full widescreen image (letterboxed)? I'm not complaining-- in fact it's very nice.

Mike,

do u know why comcast put the FSN HD on the same channel as INHD2 (720)? Is there a bandwidth problem? there're plenty of unused channel available.

according to Titan, the basball now showing should be on 719, but it's on 720 now, and nothing appears on 719 now.

bxz

This would only be a guess, but I think since FSN only does a limited amount of HD broadcasting, like for local sports teams, it is not good use of bandwidth to dedicate a whole channel for such limited HD content and if you look at what is broadcasted on INHD it is pretty much eye candy. I'm sure Comcast has a deal with INHD to be able to interrupt programing to show the local games in HD and it's good for INHD since alot of people will tune into INHD to watch these games and probably stay to see what else they broadcast. It's a win win situation for all, FSN gets to show their local games in HD, INHD gets more people viewing their channels and I get to watch the Giants lose again in HD.... :)
Just my guess though.....

Laters,
Mikef5

It's great to have 2 more HD channels, although I got no signal on 719 tonight (in Los Gatos).

Question: I got a second DVR from my Standard Def TV today and just for kicks I tried out the HdD channels. Low and behold, I get a nice, crisp letterboxed signal. I was surprised-- don't I need an HD TV to accept the HD signals? These were definitely HD shows, too-- I got a signal from every HD channel (except 719 per above). Am I seeing the full widescreen image (letterboxed)? I'm not complaining-- in fact it's very nice.
You had no signal because the Giants game was the national broadcast game on INHD1, per blackout rules they can't show the game in the local market.

You had no signal because the Giants game was the national broadcast game on INHD1, per blackout rules they can't show the game in the local market.

It was shown on INHD2 channel 720 and this is the S.F. area, the local area. FSN broadcasts their HD games on channel 720 (INHD2), the only time blackout rules are in effect is if the games are not sold out and the Giants games are always sold out, even when they lose like tonight. :(

Laters,
Mikef5

I'm sure Comcast has a deal with INHD to be able to interrupt programing to show the local games in HD and it's good for INHD since alot of people will tune into INHD to watch these games and probably stay to see what else they broadcast. It's a win win situation for all, FSN gets to show their local games in HD, INHD gets more people viewing their channels and I get to watch the Giants lose again in HD.... :)
Just my guess though.....

Laters,
Mikef5
:D

Comcast has more than a "deal" with INHD, Comcast along with Time Warner and Cox owns INHD and using it for local RSN-HD programming is one of the reasons INHD exists. :)

It was shown on INHD2 channel 720 and this is the S.F. area, the local area. FSN broadcasts their HD games on channel 720 (INHD2), the only time blackout rules are in effect is if the games are not sold out and the Giants games are always sold out, even when they lose like tonight.

Laters,
Mikef5

That's not correct. Blackout has nothing to do with being sold out (last night was not a sell out). The broadcast on 719 was a national INHD presentation and was blacked-out because FOX was presnenting the game locally ( on channel 40 and in HD on 720).

That's not correct. Blackout has nothing to do with being sold out (last night was not a sell out). The broadcast on 719 was a national INHD presentation and was blacked-out because FOX was presnenting the game locally ( on channel 40 and in HD on 720).

BTW...it was not really "Fox" that was presenting the game locally...FSN-BA is actually owned/operated by Rainbow Media (and they just use the name)...but you are correct that the blackout on INHD in the bay area was because FSN-BA had the local rights to broadcast the game. And locally Comcast funds Rainbow Media to provide an exclusive HD feed of FSN-BA games

...and to add to the confusion, Comcast has a contract with InHD that allows them to preempt INHD2 programing with local sports (for bandwidth conservation)..that is a comcast wide contract (and of course comcast is part owner of InHD)

Giants and A's games are ALWAYS shown on 720. FSN games that is.

As it happened INHD had scheduled the Cubs-Giants game for their national MLB broadcast, which is great since it means out-of-market fans can see the game (albiet with crappy announcers). But it also means that in-market it has to be blacked out because of the FSN broadcast. It's the same when ESPN does an i.e. Weds night game (they have exclusive rights to Saturday though).

Of course, if Comcast was smart... they would switch the pre-empted INHD2 content over to 719, so as not to have a blank channel... but nobody ever said they were smart (they aren't).

They also have a HD channel that broadcasts nothing but a title screen (725). Yes, a full 1080i / Dolby 5.1 bandwidth sucking title screen... 24/7. But they don't have enough bandwidth to add another real HD channel? :rolleyes:

That's not correct. Blackout has nothing to do with being sold out (last night was not a sell out). The broadcast on 719 was a national INHD presentation and was blacked-out because FOX was presnenting the game locally ( on channel 40 and in HD on 720).

Ok, I see what you are saying, INHD 719 was national and blacked out locally because a local station was showing the game. My idea of blackout is that the game is not shown at all in the local area ( like when the game is not sold out ). The Raiders are notorious for doing this, they really endear themselves with the fans that can't make the games or can't afford to go. Usually a local station will buy the remaining seats so they can show the games.

Laters,
Mikef5

I am in San Francisco, and I currently have RCN. I have noticed alot of pixelation when when there is alot of motion in some of the HD movie channels, like Starz HD, or Showtime HD. I have even seen it on HBO HD. I was wondering if Comcast has the same issue? It is not noticeable all of the time, but on my 65" Mits, you can definitely see it. One of the things I like about RCN is that they have ND Net. I don't think that Comcast has HD Net?

I am in San Francisco, and I currently have RCN. I have noticed alot of pixelation when when there is alot of motion in some of the HD movie channels, like Starz HD, or Showtime HD. I have even seen it on HBO HD. I was wondering if Comcast has the same issue? It is not noticeable all of the time, but on my 65" Mits, you can definitely see it. One of the things I like about RCN is that they have ND Net. I don't think that Comcast has HD Net?

Comcast maintains its stance that it NEVER re-compresses the signal they send out -- i.e. whatever a network sends to Comcast is what Comcast sends out to us. Pixelation can be caused by other things besides over-compression -- usually poor or even over-amplified signal strength. Is there a way to get to the diagnostics on RCN's cable box? Check the SNR and uncorrectable errors.

I just got my cablecard installed today, in Santa Clara, CA. MY TV is
a GWIV (WF655).

The tech who came to install the card knew nothing about the card,
but pretended to know it all. Thanks to this forum (and other forums)
I knew about problems other people faced in getting this working, and
how to install a cablecard.

The tech **did not want it to work** in my TV. Here's what he did:

0) Show up at 4:30 PM for a 12:00 - 3:00 appointment. I think he would
not have come at all except that I made repeated phone calls to dispatch
to make sure he comes. Wasted a perfectly good afternoon of work for me.
As soon as he walks in, he first asks me to sign the work order. I made
a big mistake by signing it before any work was done.

1) First off, he comes, and inserts the card halfway into the TV,
talks on his PTT nextel phone, and says that I have called in a hit,
and it should start working, and wants to leave in 30 seconds.

2) I stop him, and go into the applications menu on the TV, and show him
that the TV has not detected the cablecard yet. I look in the back and see
that the card is not inserted fully, so I insert it, and power cycle the TV
and it recognizes the card. He wants to run away now. I force him to
stop until the screen with the card ID and host ID etc. comes up (few minutes).

He wants nothing to do with this screen, and all he cares about is the
cablecard serial number (the one with alphanumeric characters).

3) I make him sit down, and write two copies of all the numbers on the
screen. One on his work order, and another copy for myself. He wants
to leave again now. He does not call in any of the numbers to the service
people who do the "hit". I ask him when the hit will happen. He calls
someone who says the hits are backed up by 3 mins.

4) I almost have to physically restrain him to wait for 3 mins. After 3 minutes,
nothing happens and he starts walking out the door. I manage to get his
name and his supervisor's name as he is walking out. Very rudely he refuses
to give his own contact number and his supervisor's contact number.

All of the above convinced me that he really did not want the cablecard to work.

5) However, thinking that others at comcast must be better than him, I spend
the next 2+ hours talking to various comcast CSRs, repair personnel etc.
I must have talked to at least 7-8 people. None of them even understood
what I was asking for. Everytime I asked that they "hit" my card, they just
sent a signal to the card *serial number* which is already in their records.
All of them absolutely refused to do anything with the numbers on my
cablecard screen.

6) When I asked to talk to a cablecard expert in repairs, nobody knew about one.
The only "cablecard expert" I could talk to, was a lady in sales, whose job it is
to dissuade people from using cablecards. She knows enough about cablecards
to argue how set-top boxes provide interactive services, etc... but she does not
know how to help me.

7) Finally, after two hours I give up trying to get a "hit" by talking to people
on the phone (they must have sent out ~5 hits into the ether by now) and
make a service appointment for next Tuesday.

Current situation:

Cablecard is in my TV. I am receiving analog channels, and un-encrypted digital
channels (including HD) just fine. I cannot receive the premium
digital channels for which I am paying.

I have a very bad feeling about Tuesday's appt. Another person physically
coming to my house will not achieve anything more than making me miss work
(and if he behaves like all other comcast techs, he will arrive 1.5 hours after
the service appt. window).

I NEED HELP!!!! Who can I talk to at comcast to get this resolved? Can anyone
give me a number or email of a person at comcast who knows how to make
cablecards work?

I would be eternally grateful to you, and remember you fondly every time I turn
on my TV :-)

One of the techs I talked to, was in training, and I asked him to search for
all kinds of keywords in his service database (cablecard, pairing, host, binding,
etc...) and none of the words showed up. It seems to me that comcast has
a corporate policy of not supporting these cards. They only reason some of
us in this forum have the cards working is thanks to a few good-natured
people at comcast who want to *help* the customers.

Thanks a lot in advance!
-jjsc

I almost have to physically restrain him Sounds to me like the next customer on his list looks like Angelina Jolie :)

Threads merged.

Doc

I NEED HELP!!!! Who can I talk to at comcast to get this resolved? Can anyone
give me a number or email of a person at comcast who knows how to make
cablecards work?

I would be eternally grateful to you, and remember you fondly every time I turn
on my TV :-)
Thanks a lot in advance!
-jjsc
Did you try unplugging the TV, plug the card in, making sure it is seated, and then plugging the TV back into the wall? Did you try plugging the card in while the TV was on? Are you sure the card is seated properly? The last 1/4" of insertion needs a firm push. Does your Sony have any firmware upgrades that might need to be applied? What I've noticed is that between the time that the display has been certified by CableLabs for CableCARD and the actual card is used in the field, many displays need an upgrade in firmware to get the card to work right.

IIRC, Comcast seems to have a handle on CableCARD in the bay area as I don't remember anyone else having issues, but there is always a first.

Try PM'ing Mikef5, he has Andrew Johnson on speed-dial. :p

Try PM'ing Mikef5, he has Andrew Johnson on speed-dial. :p

PM left to JJSC with my contact info. Hope we can help.

Mikef5, the next time you take Mr. J to dinner.. :D ..could you ask him about the SATA port on the Phase 3 STBs. Early reports in other areas indicate that the SATA port is not active which would be extremely disappointing...and doubly disappointing as in Comcast areas that use Scientific Atlanta equipment, the SATA port does work.

IIRC, Comcast seems to have a handle on CableCARD in the bay area as I don't remember anyone else having issues, but there is always a first.
I think it really has to do with what area you are in and who you get. I have to say most of the time, my experience with comcast is like what jjsc described. The only time I received good service is when the person they sent out had originally started with Comcast in Saramento area. The CSR folks are generally nicer but sometimes you get bad apples too. I'll guess the bad apples get weeded out more quickly there as it is hard to hit you up for upgraded service when they haven't been very nice to you.

Barovelli, have you had any luck with the SATA port yet..?

I think it really has to do with what area you are in and who you get. I have to say most of the time, my experience with comcast is like what jjsc described. The only time I received good service is when the person they sent out had originally started with Comcast in Saramento area. The CSR folks are generally nicer but sometimes you get bad apples too. I'll guess the bad apples get weeded out more quickly there as it is hard to hit you up for upgraded service when they haven't been very nice to you.
No doubt, I've been pretty lucky with the techs that I've had. The one that jjsc had should be fired, sounds like the guy was in a hurry to get somewhere on a Friday night...

Did you try unplugging the TV, plug the card in, making sure it is seated, and then plugging the TV back into the wall? Did you try plugging the card in while the TV was on? Are you sure the card is seated properly? The last 1/4" of insertion needs a firm push. Does your Sony have any firmware upgrades that might need to be applied? What I've noticed is that between the time that the display has been certified by CableLabs for CableCARD and the actual card is used in the field, many displays need an upgrade in firmware to get the card to work right.

IIRC, Comcast seems to have a handle on CableCARD in the bay area as I don't remember anyone else having issues, but there is always a first.

Try PM'ing Mikef5, he has Andrew Johnson on speed-dial. :p

Thanks for your reply Keenan.

Yes, I know the card is seated right. (I used to design mobile computers
for a living in a previous life, and was involved in the first edition of the
PCMCIA spec.)

I did not unplug the TV from the wall, but I did reset the cablecard using the
TV's menu. I think the cablecard is working fine with the TV, because after
I do a card reset, it goes off and finds all the channels and reports all the
analog and digital channels it found (about 300 - sorry, son's watching TV
now so I can't go back to that screen and get the exact number).

This also makes me think that firmware might not need an upgrade, it seems
like the card and TV are talking to each-other just fine. However, I will
call Sony on Monday and find out if an upgrade is needed.

Since I am getting everything except the two premium channels,
I deduce that it is just that comcast needs to program the card to decrypt
those channels.

Also, I will send a private message to Mikef5.

I am having problems with the 49er game on 702, the sound is cutting in and out and the picture is very pixelated. This is in Fremont, anyone else having issues or do I need to contact Comcast? I also am having the same problem on 705.

Yes, they're both fine in Santa Rosa. The 702 PQ looks like crap though..especially that full field shot, but that's a FOX problem, not Comcast.

Anybody else getting occasional break-ups on the ESPN Sunday night football game (Colts & Ravens) tonight?

ESPN was fine for me yesterday. Actually ESPN had the best picture. Better than the two games in Fox and the only game in CBS.

Thanks. After months of perfect HD service, I just hooked up my 1st DVR box (6412) Saturday & these break-ups immediately started occurring, but only on ESPN HD. Weird that it is only 1 channel.

ESPN was fine for me yesterday. Actually ESPN had the best picture. Better than the two games in Fox and the only game in CBS.
Agreed, by a noticeable margin.

The CBS game actually looked best (1080i), but I agree the ESPN picture was noticibly better than either of the FOX games - not that they were bad. The sound on the CBS game had intermittant clicks in the surround channels. The Fox game(s) had occasional drops (stutters and pixelization) but nothing terrible, very in-frequent.

Regarding Cablecard - it's widely publicized that cable companies want nothing to do with them, mostly because it's an extra expense for them to support it, and they stand nothing to gain from them - in fact they stand to lose out on PPV sales. I know it's not what you want to hear, but you're better off returning it and getting one of the fugly boxes.... sorry.

I just got my cablecard installed today, in Santa Clara, CA. MY TV is
a GWIV (WF655).

The tech who came to install the card knew nothing about the card,
but pretended to know it all. Thanks to this forum (and other forums)
I knew about problems other people faced in getting this working, and
how to install a cablecard.

The tech **did not want it to work** in my TV. Here's what he did:

0) Show up at 4:30 PM for a 12:00 - 3:00 appointment. I think he would
not have come at all except that I made repeated phone calls to dispatch
to make sure he comes. Wasted a perfectly good afternoon of work for me.
As soon as he walks in, he first asks me to sign the work order. I made
a big mistake by signing it before any work was done.

1) First off, he comes, and inserts the card halfway into the TV,
talks on his PTT nextel phone, and says that I have called in a hit,
and it should start working, and wants to leave in 30 seconds.

2) I stop him, and go into the applications menu on the TV, and show him
that the TV has not detected the cablecard yet. I look in the back and see
that the card is not inserted fully, so I insert it, and power cycle the TV
and it recognizes the card. He wants to run away now. I force him to
stop until the screen with the card ID and host ID etc. comes up (few minutes).

He wants nothing to do with this screen, and all he cares about is the
cablecard serial number (the one with alphanumeric characters).

3) I make him sit down, and write two copies of all the numbers on the
screen. One on his work order, and another copy for myself. He wants
to leave again now. He does not call in any of the numbers to the service
people who do the "hit". I ask him when the hit will happen. He calls
someone who says the hits are backed up by 3 mins.

4) I almost have to physically restrain him to wait for 3 mins. After 3 minutes,
nothing happens and he starts walking out the door. I manage to get his
name and his supervisor's name as he is walking out. Very rudely he refuses
to give his own contact number and his supervisor's contact number.

All of the above convinced me that he really did not want the cablecard to work.

5) However, thinking that others at comcast must be better than him, I spend
the next 2+ hours talking to various comcast CSRs, repair personnel etc.
I must have talked to at least 7-8 people. None of them even understood
what I was asking for. Everytime I asked that they "hit" my card, they just
sent a signal to the card *serial number* which is already in their records.
All of them absolutely refused to do anything with the numbers on my
cablecard screen.

6) When I asked to talk to a cablecard expert in repairs, nobody knew about one.
The only "cablecard expert" I could talk to, was a lady in sales, whose job it is
to dissuade people from using cablecards. She knows enough about cablecards
to argue how set-top boxes provide interactive services, etc... but she does not
know how to help me.

7) Finally, after two hours I give up trying to get a "hit" by talking to people
on the phone (they must have sent out ~5 hits into the ether by now) and
make a service appointment for next Tuesday.

Current situation:

Cablecard is in my TV. I am receiving analog channels, and un-encrypted digital
channels (including HD) just fine. I cannot receive the premium
digital channels for which I am paying.

I have a very bad feeling about Tuesday's appt. Another person physically
coming to my house will not achieve anything more than making me miss work
(and if he behaves like all other comcast techs, he will arrive 1.5 hours after
the service appt. window).

I NEED HELP!!!! Who can I talk to at comcast to get this resolved? Can anyone
give me a number or email of a person at comcast who knows how to make
cablecards work?

I would be eternally grateful to you, and remember you fondly every time I turn
on my TV :-)

One of the techs I talked to, was in training, and I asked him to search for
all kinds of keywords in his service database (cablecard, pairing, host, binding,
etc...) and none of the words showed up. It seems to me that comcast has
a corporate policy of not supporting these cards. They only reason some of
us in this forum have the cards working is thanks to a few good-natured
people at comcast who want to *help* the customers.

Thanks a lot in advance!
-jjsc

Hi!

Its me again, following up to my own message.

Comcast sent a person experienced with cablecards for today's appointment.

I had canceled today's appointment due to a meeting at work, but the tech
wasn't informed about the cancellation (though I had given 24+ hour notice).

Anyway, he arrived at home, and I wasn't there. He called me on my cell phone,
and I explained the problem to him. He knew exactly what needed to be done,
and had it working in a few minutes. I wasn't even there to walk him through
the TV menus, and he figured it all out right away. His name is Craig (last name
withheld - I guess forum rules do not allow posting personal info).

He asked me about which forum I had posted my complaint, and said that he
will check out the forum.

Many thanks to all the people at comcast who listen to this forum and act upon it.
Also thanks to other helpful people in the forum.

Some of you PM'ed me asking for my cablecard experience. I think on the whole
it is positive. I just got a bad tech last time. If you are thinking about getting one,
I would wholly recommend it. I have Craig's contact info too, and you may be
able to get his expert help (if he permits me to pass on his number to others).

Regards,
-jjsc

Hi!

Its me again, following up to my own message.

Comcast sent a person experienced with cablecards for today's appointment.

I had canceled today's appointment due to a meeting at work, but the tech
wasn't informed about the cancellation (though I had given 24+ hour notice).

Anyway, he arrived at home, and I wasn't there. He called me on my cell phone,
and I explained the problem to him. He knew exactly what needed to be done,
and had it working in a few minutes. I wasn't even there to walk him through
the TV menus, and he figured it all out right away. His name is Craig (last name
withheld - I guess forum rules do not allow posting personal info).

He asked me about which forum I had posted my complaint, and said that he
will check out the forum.

Many thanks to all the people at comcast who listen to this forum and act upon it.
Also thanks to other helpful people in the forum.

Some of you PM'ed me asking for my cablecard experience. I think on the whole
it is positive. I just got a bad tech last time. If you are thinking about getting one,
I would wholly recommend it. I have Craig's contact info too, and you may be
able to get his expert help (if he permits me to pass on his number to others).

Regards,
-jjsc

Glad that things worked out for you. If the Craig that you got was the same Craig that I have had dealings with in the past, he is very knowledgeable and a good tech. Let me know how the card is doing, my old lady has the same tv and I was thinking of getting the card for her set. I guess it just goes to show that Comcast is monitoring this group and is trying to do what they can to get things right. Now if we could just get Video on Demand in the SaraMilgatos areas........ :D

Laters,
Mikef5

Now if we could just get Video on Demand in the SaraMilgatos areas........ :D

Laters,
Mikef5
Speaking of that, I received yet another flyer in the mail today touted HBO's Rome on VOD,

Now you can watch ROME at V o'clock X o'clock or whatever time you want, only with Comcast Digital Cable and HBO On Demand!

and inside it says,

Comcast's HDTV
The ultimate viewing experience. Enjoy more color, more clarity, and more HD channels than satellite. Including the local channels they don't carry and local sports like the Giants and the A's from FSN HD.

You know, if these damn things were addressed to Resident I would mind so much, but they are addressed to me and current resident...come on, these things are addressed clear down to the name, street address, and zip+4 level...and they know damn well that none of the above services are offered in this area...sure, it's a small thing, but it's annoying as hell to be reminded every month about services that Comcast doesn't carry...

Speaking of that, I received yet another flyer in the mail today touted HBO's Rome on VOD,

Now you can watch ROME at V o'clock X o'clock or whatever time you want, only with Comcast Digital Cable and HBO On Demand!


VOD is highly overated.. :rolleyes:...Its hard to watch LD when the original was in HD. Also kind of dilutes all of those extra HBO, showtime and other channels in the 500s.

We have to keep raising the bar :D :D

So is comcast the only way to get the game in HD? I am talking about in the Bay Area BTW....

Friday nights game is in HD on KTVU. They're doing about 10 games in HD on KTVU this year but hope to do more next year. Earlier this year the Giants were in HD on ESPN Sunday Night Baseball a few times.

Bob

!!! Update to Iguide to occur this month !!!
____________________________________________________________ _____

Effective on 9/15/05, an updated version of the on-screen guide will be downloaded to customers with HDTV-capable boxes

What is Happening:

A "Maintenance Release" will occur on DCTs that currently have the "blue" on-screen guide.

Also, a new On-Screen Program Guide (Version A22.1, also known as iGuide) will be launched to High Definition Boxes.

What is a “Maintenance Release”?

A “Maintenance Release” is a version of the guide that is designed to fix errors, and not to introduce new features.

The maintenance release of the guide will be downloaded to customers’ boxes overnight during a designated maintenance window.

If all goes well, customers should not even be aware that they received the maintenance release of the guide.

Summary of the Maintenance Release:

VOD Emergency Alert System

If an Emergency Alert System (EAS) event occurs while a customer is watching a VOD program, the EAS message may not be successfully delivered with full video and audio, and/or the customer may not be returned to their VOD program after the message is delivered. (Bug occurred only on HDTV-capable boxes.)

Key Queuing Error

The system doesn’t respond when remote keys are pressed. Then, after 10 – 60 seconds, the remote commands are all executed in rapid sequence. (Bug occurred only on HDTV-capable boxes.)

Customer Impacts:

As a result of this upgrade, the LED screen on the impacted digital boxes may revert to showing Channel Number.

Customers who had previously set this up to show time will need to redo those settings through the Main Menu on the guide.

To reactivate the Current Time feature:

Press Menu on your remote, and then select the first icon on the bottom of the screen on the left (the one with the house on it) to go to the main menu. You can also get to the main menu by pressing the Menu button twice.

Select Setup.

Select Cable Box Setup. On this screen, the first line will read Front LED Display, and next to it on the right, the button should read Current Channel. Press the right arrow key on your remote to display the button reading Current Time, and press Okay/Select on your remote. The time will now be displayed on your cable box.

As a result of this upgrade, the text in the new guide will revert to the English Language.

Customers who have previously set up the text in their guide for a Spanish Language preference will need to redo those settings through the Main Menu on the guide.

To reactivate the Spanish Language option:

Press Menu on your remote, and then select the first icon on the bottom of the screen on the left (the one with the house on it) to go to the main menu. You can also get to the main menu by pressing the Menu button twice.

Select Setup.

Select Text Language Setup (last button in the column on the left).

Select Espanol - other choices are English (US), English (Canada) and Francais.

A screen will appear with a message saying “Language Confirm”. This process will change all on-screen menus and prompts to Espanol. It will take a few minutes to update”.

Select the option for “Change Text Language”. The screen will revert to the show you are watching, and it may take anywhere from 5 to 30 minutes for the menus to be switched to Spanish. If you press the menu button during this time, a screen will appear with the following message: "Un momento por favor. Esta opcion esta siendo restaurada y pronto estara disponsible. Gracias por su paciencia”. Once the process is complete, when you press the menu button, the menus will appear in Spanish. (Please keep in mind that the titles of programs that are broadcast in English will still be listed in the Guide in English).

Directions in Spanish:

Pesione Menu en su control remoto, y enseguida seleccione el primer icono en la parte inferior de la pantalla a la izquierda (el que contiene una casa) para ir al menu principal.

Seleccione Setup (Configurar).

Seleccione Text Language Setup (Configurar el Idioma del Texto) (el ultimo botón en la columna izquierda).

Seleccione Español - otras opciones son English (US), English (Canada) y Francais.

Una pantalla aparecerá con este mensaje: "Language Confirm. This process will change all on-screen menus and prompts to Espanol. It will take a few minutes to update". (Confirmación de Idioma. Este proceso cambiará todos los menús en pantalla al español. Tomará varios minutos para procesar el cambio).

Seleccione la opción "Change Text Language" (Cambie el Idioma del Texto). La pantalla volverá al show que está viendo. Podría tomar de 5 a 30 minutos para que los menús cambien al español. Si presiona el botón del menú durante este tiempo aparecerá una pantalla con este mensaje: "Un momento por favor. Esta opción está siendo restaurada y pronto estará disponsible. Gracias por su paciencia”. Una vez terminado el proceso, y cuando usted presione el botón del menú, los menús aparecerán en español. (Favor de tener en cuenta que los títulos de los programas que se transmiten en inglés continuarán siendo listados en inglés en la guía).

Parental Controls and Favorite Channel settings should NOT be impacted by this change, however customers who have these features set up may want to review them after the upgrade as a cautionary measure.

If a customer is watching TV when the Upgrade occurs:

The box will download the code in the background, while the customer is watching TV. Once complete, the box will shut itself off. The customer can turn the box back on and the new guide will be present. All the channels will show "TBA" for all channel listings, but will begin to populate with programming data quickly.

If the customer's box is off when the upgrade occurs:

The customer won't notice anything. The box may make a "click" sound once the download process is complete, but when they wake up in the morning and turn the box on it will have the new guide, fully populated

____________________________________________________________ _______

So Comcast is listening to the problems that have occurred with these boxes and is going to be doing an upgrade to the software. Thanks to Mr. J. for the info.

Laters,
Mikef5

Mikef5,
Do you know (thanks to Mr. J) if this update is still happening tomorrow.
The stuttering remote is very annoying.

Mikef5,
Do you know (thanks to Mr. J) if this update is still happening tomorrow.
The stuttering remote is very annoying.

I know the feeling, that remote thing is a PITA. As far as I know it's still going to happen tomorrow, I haven't received any notice that it has changed. Hope it fixes that stuttering remote problem.

Laters,
Mikef5

Today I had a CableCard installed in my new Sony E50A10. The "tech" didn't even know how to properly insert the card (I had to point out to him that perhaps he should flip it over and push it in hard). I live in San Jose near Saratoga/Campbell. I have basic cable. BEFORE installing the card, I could get some digital channels (ch. 2, 7, 9, etc., including INHD). AFTER installing the card, looking at the comcast channel line-up, digital channels should be between 702 and 736. None of them works: The TV says "not authorized".
Looking at the comast packages, I can see that there is a "HDTV channels" package for $5/month. I was therefore under the impression that I could continue with basic cable and just add $5 to my bill and get a few local HD digital channels. Tonight I called comcast and the "customer executive" tells me that the $5 is just for the "cable box", and that in order to see HD channels I have to order at least the digital classic package for an additional $9/mo. It also told me that I would be billed $3/mo for the card.

So my questions are:
1. What good is the cable card? It seems to me that I was better off without it!
2. Shouldn't I be able to get the $5 HDTV "package"? How?
3. Which HD channels will I get with that package? Comcast's site is not clear.

I know that I could probably find the answer here, but this thread is 248 pages long...Thanks for your help!

Follow-up: Called comcast again. This time, the customer representative confirmed that I can indeed just pay $5 for the HD channels. She tried to turn that on, but I still can't receive the HD channels. She also was not able to tell me EXACTLY WHICH HD channels I will be able to get with basic cable+$5. That you cannot find this information on comcast's web site is maddening. Anyway, they will send out another technician on Sunday. Comcast is crazy.

The CableCARD is supposed to allow you to watch certain encrypted digital channels (depending on you cable package) using your TV's integrated QAM (digital cable) tuner. Your TV tuner should supposedly provide better picture quality than a cable set top box. There is no point to having a CableCARD or set top box if you just want to watch the local HD channels (along with any other unencrypted digital channels) unless your really want to have those channels remapped to the 700s. The local HD channels are provided with the minimal basic cable subscription. Comcast does not advertise this for obvious reasons. The $5 HD set top box rental is for people whose TVs don't have integrated QAM tuners. If you haven't already done so, try removing the CableCARD from the TV since it doesn't seem to work.

I receive the following unecrypted digital cable channels in San Jose. I figure it's just a matter of time before the non-local HD channels become encrypted.

KPIX DT 78.1
KTVUHD 78.2
COMCAST SportsNet 93
INHD 105.2
INHD2 105.3
HDNet 112.2
Discovery HD 115.3
KNTV HD 116.1
KNTV W 116.2
ESPNHD 116.3
KGO-HD 117.1
KQED HD 117.2
KQED-E 117.3
KQED-W 117.4
KQED LIFE 117.5
KQED KIDS 117.6
KGO SD 117.7

btw, does anyone with Comcast in San Jose happen to know the QAM channel number for KRON?

OK, I took the card out. Now I get the "standard cable" channel lineup from the comcast web site PLUS the following HD channels (by HD I mean not just digital, but digital AND better than 480i):
2.1 KTVU
5.1 KPIX
7.1 KGO
9.1 KQED
11.1 KNTV
105.1 INHD
105.2 INHD2
105.3 HDSE

Cheaptv, by looking at your list, it seems that I am only missing ESPNHD and DiscoveryHD. What cable package do you have?
By looking at the Comcast list of HD channels, it seems that I am only missing KRON.

I looks like I am better off WITHOUT cable card.

I have basic cable and use a tuner card to watch the HD channels on my PC. I'm waiting for Comcast to get their HD/CableCARD crap together along with HDTV prices to drop. CableCARD technology is pretty new so it will take some time for their customer service to work out the kinks. Try manually typing in the channel numbers. The Comcast channel lineups vary by locale so hopefully some of them match up with mine.

The Comcast channel lineups vary by locale so hopefully some of them match up with mine.

Is there a reference somewhere outlining what the lineups are? I am looking for the Santa Rosa mapping data, specifically.

Thanks,
Kevin

maybe someone with the technical background can explain to us why this issue seems to be so problematic. It would seem that it would be as straight forward as a network card. the card is identified by some hard coded id, the cable company enters it into a database and authorizes it for whatever programming

Im guessing a lack of agreed upon standards amongst the various parties

Is there a reference somewhere outlining what the lineups are? I am looking for the Santa Rosa mapping data, specifically.

It should be on the Comcast website. It is for my area.

HDNet 112.2


btw, does anyone with Comcast in San Jose happen to know the QAM channel number for KRON?
Channel 112.2 is most likely your KRON station. Comcast doesn't carry HDNet. KRON has a contract with HDNet to carry old HDNet programming from a year or two ago. I believe KRON has/had a digital channel that was a mirror of their regular programming but I think it went off the air a week ago but has come back just yesterday according to the folks in the OTA forum. I don't remember if Comcast ever carried this channel.

It should be on the Comcast website. It is for my area.
For Santa Rosa all I've ever found is the re-mapped channel listing, never found a listing of the true QAM channels.

Today I had a CableCard installed in my new Sony E50A10.
Have you checked with Sony tech support to make sure there isn't a firmware upgrade for your display? If Comcast can't get it working properly on their end it usually means the problem is with the display. My Mits display needed a firmware upgrade before it would work properly with CableCARD and I know owners of certain Sharp and Sony displays have also needed to get firmware to update their sets.

From Multichannel News (www.multichannel.com/article/CA6256857.html?display=Breaking+News&referral=SUPP)

Comcast Extended in S.F.

By Linda Haugsted 9/14/2005 5:01:00 PM

A deeply divided San Francisco Board of Supervisors narrowly approved a contract extension for Comcast Corp., which will give the operator four more years to serve the city and county.

In return for continued operating authority, the operator agreed to pay $3.5 million to resolve a dispute with the city and county over a late build-out by Comcast's predecessor, AT&T Broadband.

Comcast will also dedicate $4.4 million to support public access during the next four years. That includes a one-time payment of $500,000, plus 52 cents per customer, per month, during the term.

Comcast serves about 170,000 customers in the city and county.

City staff members recommended the deal, noting that deregulation had stripped cities of much of their power to make demands. But at least five members of the 11-member board argued that the city could find a way to get a better deal from Comcast.

Comcast is at the end of a 40-year franchise, and the company and regulators agreed on the contract extension to give the parties more time to negotiate a full refranchise pact.

The supervisors approved the extension by a 6-5 vote. However, that was just the first reading -- the pact will have to be voted on again Sept. 27 to become final.

Regarding the update to the HDTV boxes "maintenance release"

Mikef5,
Do you know (thanks to Mr. J) if this update is still happening tomorrow.
The stuttering remote is very annoying.

At approx 5:30am, the cable box began dl'ing a change. After the change, the new "blue" guide software was running. I didn't have any chance to try things out, but I know it was a "big change" for the 5100 (or whatever the original non-dvr box was called).

This is in Fremont

Got the new update in also. Guide is much nicer, in grid format. Maybe that's what everyone else has been using for a long time but my DCT-5100 was using the old-style vertical guide. The new guide looks more like what the DCT-2xxx series is using.

That was the main change. Most of the other stuff looks like same functionality with a new skin. There was a "HD" button which seemed exciting, but then I realized it didn't list just the HD shows, but listed any channel which is an HD channel regardless of whether the show being broadcast is upconverted SD or real HD.

Anyone know if the sluggish remote/key queuing was fixed.

Referenced here:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=6126653&&#post6126653

For Santa Rosa all I've ever found is the re-mapped channel listing, never found a listing of the true QAM channels.
Woops, was reading too fast, didn't know this was requesting the RF channel listing. Some folks with QAM tuners keep track of the channel listings, but at times they change so often the listings go out of date quickly. The HD channels have been relatively stable.

Woops, was reading too fast, didn't know this was requesting the RF channel listing. Some folks with QAM tuners keep track of the channel listings, but at times they change so often the listings go out of date quickly. The HD channels have been relatively stable.
I thought about that as well, Comcast has made multiple moves in a week's time on occasion so having a website listing would be a major full-time job... :D

Mikef5 or anyone else have any news about WB/UPN? Any hope for this season? I'd much prefer have those than INHD1/2.

Anyone know if the sluggish remote/key queuing was fixed.

Referenced here:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=6126653&&#post6126653

Does anyone know if the firmware/guide version is changing for this so we can tell if we got the update?

Mikef5 or anyone else have any news about WB/UPN? Any hope for this season? I'd much prefer have those than INHD1/2.

Any way you could put up an antenna? They both come in very nicely in digital clarity over the air.

peter

Any way you could put up an antenna? They both come in very nicely in digital clarity over the air.

peter
I get UPN-KBHK clear up here in Santa Rosa and it looks spectacular, as good as KPIX. WB I have more trouble with, not really watchable.

Anyone else having problems with the Science Channel and the Golf Channel lately? I can't get either one on either of my 2 TVs-- just the "one moment please..." screen. It's been a few days now that this has been the case. Other channels right next to them are fine. Those are 2 of my favorite channels, too!!

It should be on the Comcast website. It is for my area.

The channel listings are easy enough to find. What I also need is the channel/subchannel mappings from real to virtual numbers.

I cannot find this on Comcast.com.

Thanks,
Kevin

Anyone else having problems with the Science Channel and the Golf Channel lately? I can't get either one on either of my 2 TVs-- just the "one moment please..." screen. It's been a few days now that this has been the case. Other channels right next to them are fine. Those are 2 of my favorite channels, too!!

Anyone have a problem with INHD today (09/15/05) ?
I am getting all other channels, only this one (INHD) says "no signal".
I am in Santa Clara.

Thanks!
-jjsc

Anyone have a problem with INHD today (09/15/05) ?
I am getting all other channels, only this one (INHD) says "no signal".
I am in Santa Clara.

Thanks!
-jjsc

That seems to happen when baseball games are on. Eg. Tonite both INHD channels showed baseball scheduled - both the same game. One worked perfectly, the other would just show a "frozen shot" on my screen - like the pause button was hit at the moment you tuned in the channel.
I was trying to look to see if the A's game was in HD from Boston. This does happen from time to time w. A's games as well.
Seems like the A's will be in HD on Sun.

...mike

The channel listings are easy enough to find. What I also need is the channel/subchannel mappings from real to virtual numbers.

You'll just need to have the TV scan or scour the SF Comcast thread. Some people post their results occasionally. The mappings sometimes change often (sometimes daily) so there's a good chance what you see in old posts is out of date, but it is something to start with. Personally I think it is easier to just scan the range. Different areas have different mappings. 550 and 750/860Mhz are usually pretty different.

If you just want something to start with, try 79.x, 105.x, 111.x, 115.x, 116.x, 117.x

That seems to happen when baseball games are on. Eg. Tonite both INHD channels showed baseball scheduled - both the same game. One worked perfectly, the other would just show a "frozen shot" on my screen - like the pause button was hit at the moment you tuned in the channel.
I was trying to look to see if the A's game was in HD from Boston. This does happen from time to time w. A's games as well.
Seems like the A's will be in HD on Sun.

...mike

Yes, Thanks!

I am getting it now that the game is over.

Regards,
-jjsc

Last year, Comcast would broadcast the NFL Network Game of the Week (a one-hour NFL films review of a key game) on HD Channel 725 on Wednesday and Thursday nights . According to the Titan TV listings, the GOW should have been on last night, but it wasn't. Does anyone know if we should be seeing this and why we're not.

If there was a FSN game on at the same time it probably took precedent over the NFL GOTY.

As was mentioned before... INHD has nationally broadcast MLB games, but they have to be blacked out in the local market. But you will see out-of-market teams there a couple times a week (they seem to favor Yankees and Red Sox, like most of the East Coast sports media.. :P)

I searched but did not find an answer to my question.

I have Comcast and a TV with an ATSC digital tuner. I do not have a Cable Box or Cable Card. I just have the Coax cable plugged right into the TV. It appears that all the stations below CH 100 match the Channel number of the Comcast channels on www.titantv.com.

What I am really looking for is this: Is there a list of all the channel #'s and ID's available for a TV with an ATSC tuner? For example I know that my tv will pick up digital channels above 100, like 120-1, 120-2, 130-1, etc.... (these are not actual channels rather just examples because I can't remember which channels my tv actually tuned in). I just need to get a guide to these channels becuase my tvguide will not tell me anything becuase I do not have a cable card. I want to know all the music channels, movie channels, etc...

Thanks,
-Derek

If this has already been answered, please give me a link.

I searched but did not find an answer to my question.

I have Comcast and a TV with an ATSC digital tuner. I do not have a Cable Box or Cable Card. I just have the Coax cable plugged right into the TV. It appears that all the stations below CH 100 match the Channel number of the Comcast channels on www.titantv.com.

What I am really looking for is this: Is there a list of all the channel #'s and ID's available for a TV with an ATSC tuner? For example I know that my tv will pick up digital channels above 100, like 120-1, 120-2, 130-1, etc.... (these are not actual channels rather just examples because I can't remember which channels my tv actually tuned in). I just need to get a guide to these channels becuase my tvguide will not tell me anything becuase I do not have a cable card. I want to know all the music channels, movie channels, etc...

Thanks,
-Derek

If this has already been answered, please give me a link.

ATSC is for over-the-air (OTA) digital TV, on UHF channels. eg , an antenna. That's free also (except for the antenna :) )

Cable is QAM encoding/format. Your ATSC TV will not do anything with Comcast cable digital (and/or HD) channels.
You need to get a QAM-capable TV tuner, and/or a CableCard, for that.

You can't get any of the digital (non-HD) channels like music, movie etc. anyway without either cable box or CableCard, because they are locked (encrypted) to subscribers only, eg those who paid for Digital tier service.
Some channels are in the clear , like HD versions of networks (ABC, CBS etc.). You can get those w/ UHF antenna and your OTA tuner anyway :)

You'll just need to have the TV scan or scour the SF Comcast thread. Some people post their results occasionally. The mappings sometimes change often (sometimes daily) so there's a good chance what you see in old posts is out of date, but it is something to start with. Personally I think it is easier to just scan the range. Different areas have different mappings. 550 and 750/860Mhz are usually pretty different.

If you just want something to start with, try 79.x, 105.x, 111.x, 115.x, 116.x, 117.x

I was afraid of that....

I have a myHD tuner, and when it scans for channels, it brings imports everything - even if it is encrypted. So then I have to manually remove the encrypted channels that it finds but that it can't display.

The card also has a bug where it won't find any additional subchannels (even if unencrypted) when the the first subchannel is encypted.

:-(

Kevin

ATSC is for over-the-air (OTA) digital TV, on UHF channels. eg , an antenna. That's free also (except for the antenna :) )

Cable is QAM encoding/format. Your ATSC TV will not do anything with Comcast cable digital (and/or HD) channels.
You need to get a QAM-capable TV tuner, and/or a CableCard, for that.

You can't get any of the digital (non-HD) channels like music, movie etc. anyway without either cable box or CableCard, because they are locked (encrypted) to subscribers only, eg those who paid for Digital tier service.
Some channels are in the clear , like HD versions of networks (ABC, CBS etc.). You can get those w/ UHF antenna and your OTA tuner anyway :)

You are right, the TV does have a QAM tuner also (Toshiba 51H94). I am also aware of the OTA possibilities for Digital Reception.

My other question still stands as far as "What are the Comcast digital station assignments/channel #'s available for the QAM tuner to receive?"
Thanks,
Derek

You're really going to have to try a search in the thread. Try searching with +QAM+channels. It gives a lot of returns but I think would you're looking for is in there.

Here's one for San Francisco,

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=5886527&highlight=qamchannels#post5886527
San Francisco, CA - Comcast - AVS Forum

I'm pretty sure I listed one for Santa Rosa awhile back and sfhub also listed a pretty extensive one for his area.

Anyone getting the Oakland/Boston game in HD? ESPNHD seems to be blocked out, and INHD is showing another game. Does black-out effect us if the team is on the road?

INHD is showing Tampa Bay-Baltimore, ESPN-HD is blocked. You can watch the game in SD on FSN but that's it.

ESPN is not doing this game in HD as far as I can tell. WSBK in Boston is though.

When are they going to get it?

What a joke, is it raining in Boston? That picture is so bad on FSN-36 I'd swear it was raining...

Maybe I never noticed it before, but when you go into the guide and arrow down, if you hold it down, it rips through all the channels very, very fast. I never noticed that before, it was usually trying to catch up to my last input.

When are they going to get it?

Saratoga, Milpitas and Los Gatos just got InHD1/2 + FSNHD last week...they are 550Mhz areas that recently completed the transistion to 256QAM on all Digital channels (which freed up some bandwidth)

Saratoga, Milpitas and Los Gatos just got InHD1/2 + FSNHD last week...they are 550Mhz areas that recently completed the transistion to 256QAM on all Digital channels (which freed up some bandwidth)

Nice...Just in time to miss the baseball season. :rolleyes:

Of course, we don't even get that nugget up here in the Arctic.

Kevin

I see it on my 73" mits, but I also see it ota, as well. If you have an antenna, check to see how the picture is on your TV set of local HD vs the cable HD. I think they are near the same. OTA is a bit better, but not by much.

Threads merged.

Nice...Just in time to miss the baseball season. :rolleyes:

Of course, we don't even get that nugget up here in the Arctic.

Kevin
No, our local team must be the Seattle Mariners, of course we can't get that in HD either....baseball in HD does not exist in Santa Rosa, but if I go a couple miles north to say, Larkfield, it does...thanks for nothing Comcast.

or a couple of miles south to Rohnert Park..... :eek:

Saratoga, Milpitas and Los Gatos just got InHD1/2 + FSNHD last week...they are 550Mhz areas that recently completed the transistion to 256QAM on all Digital channels (which freed up some bandwidth)

I mean the areas besides those.

or a couple of miles south to Rohnert Park..... :eek:
I know, in fact Santa Rosa is surrounded by towns and cities that ALL have INHD.

I know, in fact Santa Rosa is surrounded by towns and cities that ALL have INHD.

But arent those towns part of Comcast's NorCal Region, and Santa Rosa is part of their Artic Region :p

...btw, that does make sense, when you take into account that the Los Angeles systems are part of Comcast's Eastern Region :rolleyes:

..and to dig it in...I just got back from a friends house in Maui, and the Time-Warner system out there runs circles around what we both have... his cable modem connection from their had better speed to my office in San Jose then I get from through Comcast from my house in Saratoga these days :mad:

But arent those towns part of Comcast's NorCal Region, and Santa Rosa is part of their Artic Region :p

...btw, that does make sense, when you take into account that the Los Angeles systems are part of Comcast's Eastern Region :rolleyes:

..and to dig it in...I just got back from a friends house in Maui, and the Time-Warner system out there runs circles around what we both have... his cable modem connection from their had better speed to my office in San Jose then I get from through Comcast from my house in Saratoga these days :mad:
To tell you the truth, after perusing this forum quite a bit and seeing what others have elsewhere, other than maybe a very small town or municipality type cable system, Santa Rosa ranks real close to the bottom as far as channels, HD and otherwise. :rolleyes:

Oh yeah, WE PAY THE SAME PRICE TOO!!!! :eek:

To tell you the truth, after perusing this forum quite a bit and seeing what others have elsewhere, other than maybe a very small town or municipality type cable system, Santa Rosa ranks real close to the bottom as far as channels, HD and otherwise. :rolleyes:

Oh yeah, WE PAY THE SAME PRICE TOO!!!! :eek:

I lucked out when I bought my new house in northern Santa Rosa, very close to Larkfied/Wickiup. Being on the newly installed Healdsburg system is great. I get supurb HD and good SD using the Motorola 6200. They just upgraded the guide and menus and it is beautiful considering it is an older box.

Of course, it is $20 I didn't want to spend and will drop the service if I can ever get the locals OTA reliably.

I lucked out when I bought my new house in northern Santa Rosa, very close to Larkfied/Wickiup. Being on the newly installed Healdsburg system is great. I get supurb HD and good SD using the Motorola 6200. They just upgraded the guide and menus and it is beautiful considering it is an older box.

Of course, it is $20 I didn't want to spend and will drop the service if I can ever get the locals OTA reliably.
Wow, you're up there and you were getting KNTV when they were in Loma Prieta..?!?! You must be in just the right spot...very lucky. You really should put the antenna on the roof as Larry suggested in the other thread, if the neighbors say anything just tell them they are technologically ignorant and should get with the program.. :D

How's the remote stuttering going? I'm still getting it, so I don't know if I didn't get the new software, or if the new software didn't fix it.

anyone got this weird thing?

recorded THRESHOLD. it says 121 minutes. but there's only 91 minutes record!

so i miss last half hour... (btw, what happened there???)

Wow, you're up there and you were getting KNTV when they were in Loma Prieta..?!?! You must be in just the right spot...very lucky. You really should put the antenna on the roof as Larry suggested in the other thread, if the neighbors say anything just tell them they are technologically ignorant and should get with the program.. :D

In looking at the maps of the area, it looks like my 'view' of Loma Prieta was over a lot of 101 and then the bay, 103 miles as the crow flies. Now I get zip, nada, nothing on 12.1. Thinking about decorating my 4228 with green vines, plastic or real if I could get some to grow that high, to disguise it.

Regards,

anyone got this weird thing?

recorded THRESHOLD. it says 121 minutes. but there's only 91 minutes record!

so i miss last half hour... (btw, what happened there???)
Mine recorded fine, and the show was okay. So far, the only new show this season I've watched that isn't complete crap.

edit: Forgot about Prison Break. That one's okay too.

What happened to the Oakland game on INHD2 (720)? The guide says baseball, but they're showin something about the Coast Guard. They gotta stop teasing us like this!!! :(

What happened to the Oakland game on INHD2 (720)? The guide says baseball, but they're showin something about the Coast Guard. They gotta stop teasing us like this!!! :(
I called. They gave me some lame excuse about "the programming being overridden..." This according to some scheduling tool that the CSRs have, but we can't get any access to.

I asked to record a complaint and got transfered to a business-hours only line. How typical!

Does anyone know the real story as to why we aren't getting a HD game?

Thanks, do you know if a Comcast sub has to get the FSN package to get the games on ch. 720? Or do you get them with the minimum digital package?

What happened to the Oakland game on INHD2 (720)? The guide says baseball, but they're showin something about the Coast Guard. They gotta stop teasing us like this!!! :(
Today's game was not listed as a HD game on FSN Bay Area's website. Tomorrow's (Monday) is though.