Do they arrive at your warehouse with the software already loaded, or does that happen afterwards? (Do they come to you directly from the manufacturing plant, where Motorola loads the software?)

Final software upload happens at the system based on our input parameters - a few posts back I mentioned how the parameters determine just what breed of box it goes out as.

Local parameters also determine what channel map is loaded when it leaves the lab.

Missed the phone call from Moto toaday - but I got his number. Also emailed local IS person that sends out firmwares. DCT 2000s should be 7.85 for that platform.

Kind of weird, my 5100s in my home both locked up last night. Clocks were way off, and needed to power cycle to get a picture back.

I just received firmware 7.10 on my 6200 here in Pleasant Hill this morning, updated from 7.07 that I initially got with the box.

What is it that 7.10 provides?

7.10 will provide changes to the firewire stream. Now you may be able to record certain HD and most SD channels directly to a PC.

However, 7.10 also turns on 5C copy protection with some imperfections in the protection scheme. So it may interfere with copying some HD channels (premiums and InHD/ESPN HD) to any recording method (PC or DVHS) even though you may be entitled to "copy once" to a 5C compliant device like DVHS.

There is a robust discussion in several threads in the HDTV Recorders and HDTV Hardware forums for more information.

Now that we've got a deal with Comcast, the decision on when and what to roll out in the Bay Area gets made in Comcast's Western Division. As I mentioned before, the fact that the product team is in the Bay Area is not lost on Comcast. Having the product team able to live with the boxes in their homes will result in a better product. . . although lately we've all been in the office 12-16 hours per day making the office more like home. :)

If there is any official news, I'll be sure to let you know. You have every reason to be optimistic but do realize that there are many things in between when we say "done" and Comcast rolls out - Moto labs, hardware certification, Comcast labs, regional trials and then deployment.

Thanks Shannon. At least its good to know that when we do get a HD DVR, it will have a much better IPG than the current TV Guide offering.

Based on all the testing that has to be done, I would be extremely surprised to see actual deployment of the 6412 in the Bay Area anytime before November. I have great confidence that the MS portion of the equation will be done soon, but my confidence in Motorola is not nearly as high. But I hope I am wrong and the deployment is earlier.

There are those that are more pessimistic than I am about the deployment date, while I am sure Comcast's marketing department will be more optimistic as it attempts to stem defections to satellite and overbuilders.

Looks like it will soon be time for DCT Dictator to start sending out those 6208's sitting in his warehouse to other Comcast divisions. :(

Originally posted by SonomaSearcher
Looks like it will soon be time for DCT Dictator to start sending out those 6208's sitting in his warehouse to other Comcast divisions. :(

I work only a couple miles from his warehouse...maybe I'll dress up as the UPS guy, pick them up and take care of delivering them where they are really needed ;)

I suspect that, barring soft deployment of the 6208, Comcast's western division will be the first to get the 6212. I hope...

I also think that marketing considerations will expedite deployment of SOME type of DVR. The HD TiVo is now available, offering HD DVR service for DirecTV subscribers. This is a POWERFUL incentive for HD users to switch to satellite. Comcast must be aware of this.

Originally posted by dandrewk
I also think that marketing considerations will expedite deployment of SOME type of DVR. The HD TiVo is now available, offering HD DVR service for DirecTV subscribers. This is a POWERFUL incentive for HD users to switch to satellite. Comcast must be aware of this.

That's a good point. Comcast is/will be one of the last content providers to provide a DVR solution -- some cable companies have been offering an HD-DVR solution for almost 2 years now. With DirecTV/Tivo finally getting out their HD-DVR, Comcast is pretty much at the bottom of the barrel now (in regards to major cable/satellite companies) and I would imagine they won't want to stay there that long.

Does anybody have a link to hardware specs for this box? Is it the same as the Moxi motorola box?

lpax

Originally posted by lpaxmember
Does anybody have a link to hardware specs for this box? Is it the same as the Moxi motorola box?

Moxi doesn't use Motorola hardware...it uses it's own. Motorola only does the hardware...they rely on 3rd party vendors for the software (i.e. GemStar, Microsoft, etc.)

Moxi: http://www.moxi.com/prodserv/moxi_overview.jsp

Motorola: http://broadband.motorola.com/dvr/dct6208.asp This is the spec for the 6208...I don't think they have a spec sheet on their website for the 6412. It's pretty much the same except there are 2 tuners and it has a 120 GB hard drive.

Originally posted by shannonv
Now that we've got a deal with Comcast, the decision on when and what to roll out in the Bay Area gets made in Comcast's Western Division. As I mentioned before, the fact that the product team is in the Bay Area is not lost on Comcast. Having the product team able to live with the boxes in their homes will result in a better product. . . although lately we've all been in the office 12-16 hours per day making the office more like home. :)

If there is any official news, I'll be sure to let you know. You have every reason to be optimistic but do realize that there are many things in between when we say "done" and Comcast rolls out - Moto labs, hardware certification, Comcast labs, regional trials and then deployment.

Will this new function be part of Microsoft's Media Center Xtender architecture? ie Will I be able to view shows recorded from my media center through these boxes? Or is this completely different?

Thanks!

Russ

Originally posted by fender4645
Moxi doesn't use Motorola hardware...it uses it's own.

wrong...Moxi does run on Motorola hardware (just not the DCT series)

http://www.digeo.com/prodserv/hardware.jsp

-steve

Originally posted by Big D TV
I just received firmware 7.10 on my 6200 here in Pleasant Hill this morning, updated from 7.07 that I initially got with the box.

What is it that 7.10 provides?

Hey DCTDictator,

Any word for 7.10 for the west side of the bay? What's going down for your territory? I have a PC, all the files downloaded, and just need to pick up the firewire. Eager and waiting!

Russ

Originally posted by davisdog
wrong...Moxi does run on Motorola hardware (just not the DCT series)

My bad, although I don't think it's branded "Motorola" as much as the DCT's are. Either way, sorry for the misinformation.

Originally posted by fender4645
My bad, although I don't think it's branded "Motorola" as much as the DCT's are. Either way, sorry for the misinformation.

true...Moxi does appear to stamp their name all over the motorola box...Both it and the MS stuff look to be slick interfaces that I'm sure the development teams are proud of (and marketing would want brand recognition)...I'm not sure I'd want my name attached to the current TV Guide "Interface" Comcast is using on its 6208's

Originally posted by SonomaSearcher
7.10 will provide changes to the firewire stream. Now you may be able to record certain HD and most SD channels directly to a PC.

However, 7.10 also turns on 5C copy protection with some imperfections in the protection scheme. So it may interfere with copying some HD channels (premiums and InHD/ESPN HD) to any recording method (PC or DVHS) even though you may be entitled to "copy once" to a 5C compliant device like DVHS.

There is a robust discussion in several threads in the HDTV Recorders and HDTV Hardware forums for more information.

7.10 has been loaded in Santa Rosa and with it went my ability to record premium channels on my Mits DVHS. No "copy once" just no copy at all. And no DVR option. Time to take a closer look at the HD-Tivo from DirecTV.

I'm sure it has been asked before but why would Comcast put what is arguably the most technologically advanced area(greater SF bay area) at the bottom of their list for DVR deployment. I guess I'm just anxious. But it seems from reading posts here and elsewhere on this forum that Comcast is waiting for the next best thing before deployment. And we all know that road never ends..

Sorry, had to vent a little, I guess it was nice while it lasted.

Jim

yep, I was getting ready to jump on the closeout Mits DVHS' but there have been alot of threads hear at AVS about them not working with the 6200 fw71.0..

Sorry to hear about your pain....

Just checked and we have 7.10 here in Petaluma also. Must have come through in the last 24 to 48 hours.

Premiums should be "copy once" so the 7.10 is imperfect, to put it nicely. Future firmware versions should fix this, but who knows how long it will take.

About the DVR's, we originally were being told November or December 2003, so now we are talking a delay of at least a year in rollout. Local radio ads were flooding the airwaves in December saying the DVR was "coming soon." A failure to deliver on this promise cannot be good for Comcast's rep among both customers and local franchise authorities.

So, I would expect Comcast to first provide the 6412 to the Bay Area and other Western Division areas if there will not be any "soft" rollout of the 6208. Otherwise, it will pay the piper when franchise renewal time comes around and comments are made and questions are asked about why the Bay Area has 2nd class status when it comes to DVR.

got 7.10.
plugged in DVI and lost my component picture. switched to DVI - got a search for singnals message then no signal. unplugged DVI. Still no component signal. went into the menu on component and found my aspect ratio and resolution settings were back to defaults. Changed them and plugged in DVI with the menu up when I saw an HDCP authentication failure.

what's the dilly yo'?

jb

jb,

See the 5100/6200 thread in the hardware forum for information on how to temporarily (until they fix the firmware!!!) work around the DVI problem with 7.10.

Hey - is it like a quake? 7.10 rolls down the San Andreas. I never stepped in a CMCSA facility today and I have not VPN hooked up the laptop to check today's email and see if IS flipped a switch - dieing to know if my emails started it :D

It sounds like a normal firmware upgrade in progress.

Lots of stuff going on, I see. Interesting input from shannonv, and I spent the whole day at a budget planning meeting off site.:o

davisdog - well, the '08s won't do much as a standalone, though one does wonder what putting a disk in a 6200 and flipping the config would do . .

My first DCT hack was to pull a phone modem out of a plain DCT2000 and put it into a stray S-Video equipped DCT2000 that landed in my office without a modem. A digit change and cold hit and it worked. That way I had the only SVid equipped box in the the whole south bay.

thanks sonoma. got around it but DVI isn't so much better that I'll hassle with it till it's fixed - especially since I don't have a DVI switch yet and it seems to make a big difference on the computer.

And speaking of computers, the Firewire side of 6200/7.10 is awesome! - so are **********s ...

And you think they'll "fix" the premiums about the same time they fix the DVI? sweet!

DCTDictator, I called and emailed Comcast about the HDCP problem but I suspect you'd get a better response if you wouldn't mind taking that one on.

thanks guys,
jb

DCTDictator, I called and emailed Comcast about the HDCP problem but I suspect you'd get a better response if you wouldn't mind taking that one on.

Is there a good info sheet to get me up to date on HDCP? I understand the concepts on a user basis, but throwing a few buzzwords around opens more doors . .

A couple answers:

1) No, we do not support MCX in this version. I've been running it in my home with XP Media Center and it's pretty cool so the coolness potential is certainly appreciated.

2) Content protection - HDCP and DTCP are the means for enforcing. What you want to look into is CCI (Copy Control Information). This gets set by broadcasters/content providers and operates in passthrough mode right now. In the future, MSOs will be able to turn on copy once or copy never from the headend for content that is set to copy freely.

Originally posted by SonomaSearcher
Just checked and we have 7.10 here in Petaluma also. Must have come through in the last 24 to 48 hours.



Interesting you got the update. Still same old version in San Rafael.

Does this update only apply to 6200's, or do the 5100's also get it?

How about others in Marin? What firmware do you have?

Originally posted by DCTDictator
Is there a good info sheet to get me up to date on HDCP? I understand the concepts on a user basis, but throwing a few buzzwords around opens more doors . .

DCT,

This has an HDCP overview link towards the bottom (although the rest of the stuff is focused on DVI and doesnt get into firewire recording)

http://dvi.baumannpaper.com/

and btw as you probably know "Saramilgatos" is still sitting at 7.07

Steve

dandrewk - I'm in larkspur. they swapped my box to a 6200 as a "piece of mind effort" since they couldn't find a problem pointing to my pixelations. Pissed that they blew me off but stoked to find the box was a 6200 which they were still insisting had not been released. So maybe its a 6200 thing here, this box came with 7.10. but I honestly hadn't looked at my 5100 firmware in a while.

DCT here's the most concise/technical description of the DVI/HDCP problem I can find.
http://cjhengineering.com/hdtv/cablehdtv/dctfirmware.htm

Slightly OT, but thought it would be interesting, the schedule for the merged TechTV/G4 network.

http://www.barovelli.com/G4techTV.pdf

Don't know yet what channel it will be on or what package includes it.

I just hope the merged channel of TechTV G4 does not get put on an analog tier. That would eliminate bandwidth for two HD channels.

Originally posted by SonomaSearcher
I just hope the merged channel of TechTV G4 does not get put on an analog tier. That would eliminate bandwidth for two HD channels.

Highly unlikely they would...one's currently in Digital Classic, the other in Digital Premiere...Based on what they paid for it, it wouldnt make sense to put the combined channel on a lower tier than either of the original channels were

I have 7.10 firmware on both the 5100 and 6200 in San Francisco. Now to get a firewire cable...

Originally posted by russwong
I have 7.10 firmware on both the 5100 and 6200 in San Francisco. Now to get a firewire cable...

Thanks russwong! I just checked and my 6200 is on 7.10 as well! :)

reset my comcast hd receiver because i had to move it to a different piece of furniture and unplug it. When i turned it back on, a big message came up saying that i'm not hdcp compliant and that i should use the red/blue/green cables instead of dvi. Unforutunately i'm running an infocus lp130 which doesn't support red/blue/green so i'm totally screwed for HD now. Anybody else have a similar experience? Is there anything i can do to get HD back on my projector? i'm pissed!

Originally posted by vrod51
reset my comcast hd receiver because i had to move it to a different piece of furniture and unplug it. When i turned it back on, a big message came up saying that i'm not hdcp compliant and that i should use the red/blue/green cables instead of dvi. Unforutunately i'm running an infocus lp130 which doesn't support red/blue/green so i'm totally screwed for HD now. Anybody else have a similar experience? Is there anything i can do to get HD back on my projector? i'm pissed!

Hmm....I suppose that is good to know, sorry you had to find that out the hard way, looks like I'm going to try and never unplug my comcast box.

This was on CNN.com today: http://money.cnn.com/2004/05/24/technology/techinvestor/hellweg/

Excerpt:

Motorola finally unveiled its first "dual tuner" model, which allows consumers to watch one program while recording another, on May 3 at the annual cable-industry confab in New Orleans. According to a Motorola spokesperson, Comcast is rolling out the devices aggressively.

Hahahahahahahahahaha!!! Aggressively!!!! I love it!!!

Originally posted by fender4645

Hahahahahahahahahaha!!! Aggressively!!!! I love it!!! [/B]

Arrg!

Just got new shipment of 6200s today. Fresh off the test rack they have firmware 7.07 on the San Jose rebuild feed.

Are those the 6200's that the Santa Clara office expects to get in on Thursday? They were out when I stopped by today...

I live in Santa Clara, and saw the loss of channel 193 ESPN HD a few weeks ago, but now it is back (without having changed from my original set of extended cable, and HDTV tuner).

But I haven't observed if the signal is actually HD. The only thing I saw was the sharks playoff game where they were eliminated, but that did not seem to be HD quality. Does anyone know what is the deal with ESPN HD for people who have not upgarded to some digital package, but have the HDTV tuner and extended basic package?

Originally posted by mafamba
I live in Santa Clara, and saw the loss of channel 193 ESPN HD a few weeks ago, but now it is back (without having changed from my original set of extended cable, and HDTV tuner).

But I haven't observed if the signal is actually HD. The only thing I saw was the sharks playoff game where they were eliminated, but that did not seem to be HD quality. Does anyone know what is the deal with ESPN HD for people who have not upgarded to some digital package, but have the HDTV tuner and extended basic package?

Same thing happened to me. I thought I was gone for good since everyone here indicated that you would have to subscribe to the lowest Digital tier to get it back. However, I'm not complaining. Especially since I was really peeved that it was taken away during the NHL playoffs.

It is ESPN HD, but as frequently discussed, very rarely is it actually an HD broadcast. There is a game on at 5PM PDT today though.

MOST of ESPN HD's programming is just SD upconverted to widescreen. I do not remember if that particular game was broadcast in HD.

According to CSR's you will need to be on a digital package to get ESPN HD, but as mentioned in the sticky at the top of this thread it is not currently scrambled.

That might change when they add the other HD channels this summer. FSN for sure, and I think there have been hints that DiscoveryHD is coming soon also.

Anyone have info on FoxHD when it starts in September? I would love to see an HD football game or more a week on Fox.

Originally posted by Zappcatt
MOST of ESPN HD's programming is just SD upconverted to widescreen.

Just to clarify, it's not "widescreen" but rather 4:3 "stretched".

Here's the ESPNHD Schedule (updated daily).
http://sports.espn.go.com/sports/tvlistings/espnhd/index

FYI, Sportcenter starts broadcasting full time from their new HD Studio starting ~June 7th.

ESPNHD is part of the $9.95 Digital Classic Package, although encryption is on again off again...enjoy it while it lasts.


As far as FoxHD...don't hold your breath as far as seeing it on Comcast in the Bay Area anytime soon. Channel 2 is owned by Cox and so far Cox has refused to allow Comcast to carry any of their HD channels.

Anyone here have or know where to find the subject info? I was told by a local crew foreman several months ago that it should be happening by about now and I'm supposedly on an email list to be notified of its availability but I'm still sittin' down here with the mushrooms....

--Terry

Originally posted by fender4645
Just to clarify, it's not "widescreen" but rather 4:3 "stretched".

True...
I feel sorry for some of the players in the recent softball tournament they broadcast...the view from the centerfield camera doesnt do them justice in that wide/stretched mode they use.

Originally posted by TPeterson
Anyone here have or know where to find the subject info? I was told by a local crew foreman several months ago that it should be happening by about now and I'm supposedly on an email list to be notified of its availability but I'm still sittin' down here with the mushrooms....

--Terry

One thing I will tell you is don't wait for them to notify you via that VIP email list you are supposedly put in...I bet most of the people here where put on it but you'll find that none of us ever got notified by Comcast (we all got HD by calling and scheduling an install..must be some sort of cruel joke to get people to stop asking.

Have you called them lately and told them you want to sign up for HD? That way they will just go through the process in the system to schedule you...if its in the database then at least somebody will come out, if not then the system shouldnt let them schedule it...if they can't try back in a few weeks

Otherwise, post your area here and see if somebody comes back saying they have it near you already

Thanks, I'll try again to schedule the installation. But regarding:

"Otherwise, post your area here and see if somebody comes back saying they have it near you already"

Please explain what you mean by "post your area here"? I thought that's what I just did....

Originally posted by TPeterson
Thanks, I'll try again to schedule the installation. But regarding:

"Otherwise, post your area here and see if somebody comes back saying they have it near you already"

Please explain what you mean by "post your area here"? I thought that's what I just did....

Sorry Terry, you did mention San Carlos so we'll see if any other San Carlos folks reply...although you may need to narrow it down a little more (like saying a location such as south of El Camino/Ralston or something), there are likely a few areas in San Carlos that could be on different segments (so some may be fully upgraded and running and others may not)

Being able to schedule an install does not seem to be a gaurantee of actually being able to get a service.

Comcast happily scheduled an install of broadband at my new house. However, when the installer arrived, he took one look and told me it was a no go. Apparently, the system had bad information, which said that my area had been rebuilt, when it had not yet been done. (I am in nothern Emerald Hills and served by the San Mateo county head end). The only positive was that he said that rebuild in that area was underway and should be completed by end of the summer. I'm keeping my fingers crossed.

B

Originally posted by bfisch
Being able to schedule an install does not seem to be a gaurantee of actually being able to get a service.

Agree..but its really the best way to find out other then letting your neighbor find out before you

Originally posted by Zappcatt
Are those the 6200's that the Santa Clara office expects to get in on Thursday? They were out when I stopped by today...

Yeppers. Should be there.

bfisch, you should be glad, as the main redwood city system is 550 Mhz and doesn't have HD either. I am on the border between the two systems and Comcast just dropped an optical node on the pole next to my house.

The Comcast people are doing a lot of work in the area and I think the plant will be state of the art when they are done. The C-Cor stuff they are installing looks very good.

The county system wasn't even connected to the fiber ring in the Bay Area, and now it looks like it's going to be a pretty nice system.

Thanks,
Mike

PS I also notice a lot of SBC trucks in the Emerald Hills area. I think they are putting in Remote Terminals for enabling DSL service now that Comcast will be able to support data on the county system. Funny how it is, as soon as comcast gets data running in a market SBC magically decided to install RT's to make the area DSL capable. Had they done it earlier the would have cleaned up on DSL connections, but I suspect they don't make much money on DSL and just don't want to lose a customer to cable.

Originally posted by MikeSM
but I suspect they don't make much money on DSL and just don't want to lose a customer to cable.

You might be surprised on how critical DSL is part of their plan.


The #1 item at the top of their last Earnings report was...

"446,000 increase in DSL lines, to reach nearly 4 million in service, up 60 percent over past four quarters"

If they don't meet their projections they will get hammered by the market.

I'm not sure what their margin is on DSL, but since the line is free (ie you just ride over the phone line and they already make money off the phone line) I'm sure there making something every month and when you multiple that by 4Million...

anyway...back on subject :)

Doh. I was just in the Santa Clara office today and they scheduled me an appointment for an install.

I imagine most of you are swapping boxes to get the new 6200s, but can I just walk in and pick up a box?

All the CSRs I've spoken to say that for new installs they need to send a tech out. Which I thought was strange since I've already got digital cable turned on, and I can tune to the HD channels (just no picture).

If so, maybe I'll try to stop by that office again tomorrow. It'd sure beat waiting around the whole day for the cable guy.

Honestly, there is no reason to send a tech out. They say it needs to be "installed", but that's a bunch of BS. The first install for the HD box, the guy just screwed the cable box in and connected it to the TV and that was it. The second box install was the same thing except the tech took my splitter. Other then that, he just plugged the cable box in and connected to the cables to the TV. I didnt want him mucking with my real entertainment center so I had him setup on another TV and when he left, I just moved it to my main TV.

I think they go out, just in case you have a really ****** signal and your line can't give the HD feed, but even though I already had HD, they still wanted to send someone out and the first time they sent someone out, they didn't even bring an HD box, so that was a wasted day.

All in all, I think it's pretty inefficient and a waste of money and resources, but who am I to say, I don't run a cable company.

Russ

Originally posted by madcow223
Doh. I was just in the Santa Clara office today and they scheduled me an appointment for an install.

I imagine most of you are swapping boxes to get the new 6200s, but can I just walk in and pick up a box?

All the CSRs I've spoken to say that for new installs they need to send a tech out. Which I thought was strange since I've already got digital cable turned on, and I can tune to the HD channels (just no picture).

If so, maybe I'll try to stop by that office again tomorrow. It'd sure beat waiting around the whole day for the cable guy.

You should be able to do just that...My dad did that recently in the sunnyvale office (which is a branch of the SC office). He walked in with his DCT2000, said he wanted to upgrade to HD and they handed him an HD Box, changed his service in the system and he went home and plugged it in himself. I do think you have to call when you get home to get it turned on..but went smoothly and avoided waiting for a tech.

-Steve

Got them. Anyone want to buy me a TV to test it?


Guess not.




Anyone know any retail outlets stocking a TV that utilizes it? That has a cable feed?

I can now say that I am agressively rolling out cable card.

Originally posted by DCTDictator
Got them. Anyone want to buy me a TV to test it?
I can now say that I am agressively rolling out cable card.

Hahahaha!! Nice!!!

Originally posted by DCTDictator
Got them. Anyone want to buy me a TV to test it?


Guess not.




Anyone know any retail outlets stocking a TV that utilizes it? That has a cable feed?

I can now say that I am agressively rolling out cable card.


Not too many TVs have it yet. I believe the 52" Samsung DLP has/will have it. Also, the Sony 34XBR960 will have it, as well as the other models coming out. I'm waiting for the Sony 36XS955 I think for now...

Amazing.

Pics of Cable Card in the gallery.

Originally posted by DCTDictator
Amazing.

Pics of Cable Card in the gallery.

Yes...very cool...I didnt realize they were just pcmcia cards..wish I needed a new TV...

oh and I noticed the pics of the 6208...damn what a tease...so close to me yet it seems so far away

as a side note..Just finished watching my first HD Cartoon with my 4 and 2 yr olds..."jakers" on PBSHD...very cool

Darn 6208s. The one I have had since they arrived is unplugged and going back Monday. There was a recall for what reason I don't remember, but that one I have is one of the recalled ones.

If I give it a MENU command, either from the remote or the panel, the picture freezes and then it power cycles. Never can get to the menu to watch recorded stuff. That recall was something software related (not a safety hazard like 2002's DCT2000s), possibly the reason it's recalled, eh?

Anyway, I have my modded TiVo that captures all the standard cable stuff just fine, and I have every premium channel that is on the cable - so if you miss a movie on HBO, there are many, many chances to see it again.

For the cablecard, I've got the training department asking for one for demo purposes. I'm leary of giving them one - so I'm going to scan the thing and print out the labels and stick them to the old SMC NIC card, make a mock up for them so if it ever grows legs there will be no big loss.

I'm also going to visit a couple of high end TV stores tomorrow and ask if they have any TVs that are cablecard compatable.

It's about one more month for HD to arrive in my hometown. About the same time Dead Like Me returns. Can't wait.

Originally posted by DCTDictator
Darn 6208s. ....

Bummer on the 6208...I've got a Replay hooked up and it was great until HD came along...now its a tough call...its frustrating to miss a good HD show and have to watch it timeshifted in SD.

Magnolia TV probably isnt too far from you...they might have some ...Sony just came out with a large lineup of Cablecard systems...although I'm not sure of any stores that have a cable feed you can plug into.

By the way...you probably could write this in your sleep..but decent info for us outsiders on the HD DCT's...the link to 7.10 firmware news has a litle write up of the HDCP issue

http://cjhengineering.com/DCTHDFAQ.htm

Well, the G4TechTV merger goes live today, and currently channel 136 is still labeled as G4 while channel 294 (formerly TechTV) is labeled "G4TTV.")

Hope this doesn't mean the new channel is put in Digital Premier. I was hoping it would take G4's spot in the Digital Classic lineup so I wouldn't have to pay so much every month like I was for TechTV. D'oh.

Originally posted by michaelc
Well, the G4TechTV merger goes live today, and currently channel 136 is still labeled as G4 while channel 294 (formerly TechTV) is labeled "G4TTV.")

Hope this doesn't mean the new channel is put in Digital Premier. I was hoping it would take G4's spot in the Digital Classic lineup so I wouldn't have to pay so much every month like I was for TechTV. D'oh.

My wake-up TV kicked on this morning at 5 am and what do I get instead of Sarah Lane all excited about TSS? infomercials. Sigh. Informercials until 9am.

Right now I've got identical programming and guide tags on 136 and 294, I am still on NAS in my system (HITS out of Denver, most of the Bay Area is on DAC, a local controller).

By the way...you probably could write this in your sleep..but decent info for us outsiders on the HD DCT's...the link to 7.10 firmware news has a litle write up of the HDCP issue

http://cjhengineering.com/DCTHDFAQ.htm

Ashamedly, I take information from that page and use it for announcements. Since joining the forum I have a better understanding of why I got phone calls from customer service asking me to "turn on the firewire" or things like that.

Now I have heard that the RF bypasses on HD boxes that have it do not function. I understand the need and I've got some ammo to send the requests off to addressability gurus.

Originally posted by michaelc
Well, the G4TechTV merger goes live today, and currently channel 136 is still labeled as G4 while channel 294 (formerly TechTV) is labeled "G4TTV.")

Hope this doesn't mean the new channel is put in Digital Premier. I was hoping it would take G4's spot in the Digital Classic lineup so I wouldn't have to pay so much every month like I was for TechTV. D'oh.

There was a message on my cable box this morning that announced channel changes tomorrow (5/28) when G4TTV goes live, but instead of listing the new channel number it said call comcast for details :(

Originally posted by davisdog
There was a message on my cable box this morning that announced channel changes tomorrow (5/28) when G4TTV goes live, but instead of listing the new channel number it said call comcast for details :(

That could also mean your area is getting the channel re-orginaztion. I got the same message a couple of weeks ago in the East Bay and it was because they were changing the channel numbers around so all of the Bay Area had the same channel lineup.

Originally posted by fender4645
That could also mean your area is getting the channel re-orginaztion. I got the same message a couple of weeks ago in the East Bay and it was because they were changing the channel numbers around so all of the Bay Area had the same channel lineup.

I thought about that, but the wording of the message seemed very specific to G4/Tech...we'll see what happens

Hi everyone. I just bought my HDTV today, and I'm having trouble with the signals. Namely, my TV seems to treat everything coming from the cable box as a 4:3 source, and yes, I'm using component in/out.

Shouldn't HD channels such as INHD automatically fill the screen? I can set the set to Zoom and it fills up, but then going back to analog everything looks exploded. Is it always like this or is there something that can be done?

I'm using a 6200 and a Sony 34" 510 model.

Michael,

With the 6200 powered off (but your tv powered on), hit the menu key on the 6200.

When the User Settings menu comes up What is the TV Type? (should be 16:9)

Also YPbPR Output should be 1080i and 4:3 override should be 480i.

THe others dont matter but they should all be auto except for closed caption (disabled)

hopefully its just that TV Type is set to 4:3 and then all you have to do is change that with the arrow and select keys on the 6200...Otherwise it may be something with your Sony menus, but I'm not familiar with those.

-Steve

That RF bypass feature is something that comcast corporate disables as a policy. In fact, in our software we were told to disable it, even though the DCT and DAC support it.

The 6412s don't have RF out and the a/b light is replaced with a "rec" light. The days of RF out and TV/VCR are drawing to a close.

Sorry if this has been asked and answered before.

Does anyone know if I can get HD channels buy getting the box for $5.00 and only subscribing to the most basic $16-$18.00 package?

I'm mostly interested in getting Fox Sports Bay Area in HD when it's added to the lineup. I don't expect DirectTV or Voom to carry it anytime soon. I would like to have Voom and an inexpensive HD package from Comcast if that's possible.

Any info would be appreciated.

Originally posted by shannonv
That RF bypass feature is something that comcast corporate disables as a policy.

Some social enginerring with addressability perhaps. I'll see, I have a ticket in to do it or explain it.

I would guess that FSN is going to require at least the Digital Classic Tier, as ESPNHD, and InHD, InHD2 do.

I would rather Comcast just make an HD package(with more stations DIscHD, etc) so that I could go to the Analog Basic Cable + HD package...instead of paying for the digital tier which I have no use for.

Originally posted by mbroder
Sorry if this has been asked and answered before.

Does anyone know if I can get HD channels buy getting the box for $5.00 and only subscribing to the most basic $16-$18.00 package?

I'm mostly interested in getting Fox Sports Bay Area in HD when it's added to the lineup. I don't expect DirectTV or Voom to carry it anytime soon. I would like to have Voom and an inexpensive HD package from Comcast if that's possible.

Any info would be appreciated.

With the Basic ($15) package + $5 for HD Box you get the HD Locals (currently CBS, ABC, NBC, PBS..later UPN and WB when added along with analog channels 1-32). For $9.95 more (Digital Classic Package) you get ESPNHD, INHD1, INHD2 + 20 or so SD Channels. I suspect when FSN-HD and DSC-HD get added they will go in the Digital Classic Package (at least I hope)

FYI. 6200 Firmware 7.10 has arrived here in Saratoga. Can now record from 6200 to my PC, except for HBO which appears to have copy protection.

Originally posted by bpearse
FYI. 6200 Firmware 7.10 has arrived here in Saratoga. Can now record from 6200 to my PC, except for HBO which appears to have copy protection.

Ah..yes, now I need to get a long (50+ft) cable and string it up to my desktop

mbroder,

If you are mostly interested in FSN Bay Area HD, I would wait until it is available and see if Comcast encrypts it at first. It is possible it will not be encrypted for the first few months (like HBO HD, Showtime HD were not encrypted for over six months).

If not encrypted, you would be able to get it with analog limited basic + HD STB rental fee.

If encrypted, it will likely be on the Digital Classic tier, which will cost your $9.95 per month beyond analog limited basic + HD STB rental.

Hey guys-

This is mainly for DCTDictator but feel free to chime in if you have any opinions.

I'm having issues with VOD on one of my 3 TV's. When I try to go to the VOD menu, I get a message that says "Communications error. Please try again. If problem continues please call your cable provider." I called Comcast TS and they said I need to swap my box for a 5xxx or 6xxx in order for it to work. The thing is, VOD was working fine on this TV for the first few days it was available and then I started getting this error. The box that's getting this error is a DCT2000.

As I said earlier, I have 2 other boxes: a 6200 connected to the HDTV in the living room, and another 2000 in my bedroom -- both of which show VOD without problems. I thought it might be an "overload" issue as I have the cable box (connected to a ReplayTV), cable modem, and another cable going to my PC card tuner all hooked up to a Comcast-provided splitter. So I disconnected all of the devices went straight from the wall to the 2000 and into my TV...same problem.

So my questions is: will changing the box really help? I was under the impression that the DCT2000 boxes can handle VOD -- it does in my bedroom. Or could the problem be deeper (i.e. not enough bandwidth).

Thanks for the help!

fender4645

I have no VOD in the area - never seen the 'Communications Errror'. (really, I should get out and visit other systems that have this stuff).

All I can guess is that the return path has become affected. Once in awhile a box becomes a 'babbling box' on the plant and others cannot get their message through.

Have you tried it with the other DCTs disconnected?

Speaking of VOD, I haven't seen it myself, but a family member today swore up and down to see a local Comcast ad promoting VOD. I'm not sure if it's coming to this area real soon now or not.

Also, this thread has been infinitely useful, thanks for making it such.

Originally posted by DCTDictator
Have you tried it with the other DCTs disconnected?

Thanks for the response.

I thought of taking the other DCT2000 and seeing if it works in the office but it would probably take me an hour to unplug everything in the bedroom as it's in a huge armoir that I need to get behind in order to dismantle.

I guess I don't have a problem swapping the old 2000 for a newer 5100 or 6200 -- I shouldn't get charged any extra, should I? I know I'll get charged the normal cable box rental fee -- I just want to make sure they don't charge me an additional $5 because it's an HD box.

Originally posted by michaelc
Speaking of VOD, I haven't seen it myself, but a family member today swore up and down to see a local Comcast ad promoting VOD. I'm not sure if it's coming to this area real soon now or not.

Also, this thread has been infinitely useful, thanks for making it such.

So far, I believe only Contra Costa (Delta Valley region) has rolled out VOD in the Bay Area. The only thing else I heard is that San Francisco should get it some time this summer. They also said that all of the Bay Area (at least those areas that have been upgraded) will get it by the end of year. I'm not sure if that means San Francisco is the next to get it or if there will be other areas rolled out in the next few months. Rhonert Park is in the North Bay where, I believe, SonomaSearcher is near. He may have heard something more specific.

Fender4645,
I would try to swap at least one of the other boxes out and see if it is in fact a bad box.
I know that you said the bedroom box would be to difficult..how about the 3rd box that you have? Or move the "bad" box to the other room with the TV that works...

Ok, so I pulled the 6200 from the living room and swapped it with the 2000 that's been giving me problems and it looks like it's working. The weird thing is that when I got it hooked up, the VOD was working but my cable modem started wigging out. After doing a Master Reset on the cable modem, it started working again. Hmmmmmm. I really hope it's not a bandwidth issue. My cable modem has been doing this a lot lately and hoping it's just because it's an old model from the AT&T days.

By the way, does anyone know if I can swap cable modems at the Comcast office? I figure I might as well get an updated one if I'm going to exchanging the cable box as well.

Originally posted by davisdog
Ah..yes, now I need to get a long (50+ft) cable and string it up to my desktop

I don't think 50ft will work as firewire I think is limited to 15" unless you use repeaters.

Originally posted by Almighty1
I don't think 50ft will work as firewire I think is limited to 15" unless you use repeaters.

15'. ;)

Here's a money is no object solution: http://www.ramelectronics.net/html/1394_fiber.html

SonomaSearcher,
Can you update the sticky that leads off this thread?

It has not been updated since 3/16/04 and the HD scene has drastically changed since then.

I would also like to see if you could add info regarding channels that are not expected anytime soon, such as the Fox(cox) issues here in the BA.

Thanks again for this great thread...

I just got a card in the mail from comcast outlining the new channel line-up for the San Mateo county system after they have completed their upgrades. The mailing says it'll all be available by June 21, which is consistent with the truck activity I have seen in the area.

Lots of new channels, and programs that are currently in my didgital classic tier are being changed around. No KTVU in HD but ABC,NBC,CBS, and PBS plus ESPN, Indemand and the HBO, Showtime, Cinemax and Starz HD offerings. No Fox sports in HD, though it's available in SD in the digital premier lineup.

Lots more SD channels than the main Redwood City system.

Thanks,
Mike

That's great news. Hopefully they can deliver on schedule.

The only thing worse than no HD is having HD and losing it (due to a move).

B

I'm still sitting here in Belmont (between San Carlos and San Mateo) without any HD service. Last year around this time, Comcast was saying that they would be serving HD to the whole Bay Area by the end of 2004. Though they still have 6 more months, it's looking doubtful that they'll be able to meet that schedule.

make sure you call and ask repeatedly if it is in your area. I was told twice in one week that there was no HDTV service in my area. I went to this board, found another person that had it, then called back the next day saying I know it is available, and sure enough they admitted it was available and 2 days later I had HDTV.

If you (or a neighbor) happens to have a regular Comcast Digital box, an easy was to check to see if HD is available in your area is to punch in channel 184 or 185 (ABC and NBC HD) on your digital box and see if it holds the channel.

If it kicks you right back to where you were, then the HD channels are not on in your area but if it holds the channel (but doesnt display a picture) then they have HD on the system (and tell them to get the heck out their with an HD box so you can see the picture)

Getting reliable info from a CSR on whether or when your area has HD is difficult (at best)

I tried scheduling an install of HD today in Foster City, via website, and it seemed to say available & went through... appts next week...
but then I got an email back saying "sorry, not available in your area yet."

Guess I'll try again end of June, unless somebody in SM says "it's here" on this forum!

I had same experience as cgould, last week.

Originally posted by Doc Tonic
make sure you call and ask repeatedly if it is in your area. I was told twice in one week that there was no HDTV service in my area. I went to this board, found another person that had it, then called back the next day saying I know it is available, and sure enough they admitted it was available and 2 days later I had HDTV.

Geeez, if Comcast is so lame as to deny that they have the ability to sell their own services, then I'm running out of hope. Va-Va-Voom here I come!

Originally posted by Kaysadea
I'm still sitting here in Belmont (between San Carlos and San Mateo) without any HD service. Last year around this time, Comcast was saying that they would be serving HD to the whole Bay Area by the end of 2004. Though they still have 6 more months, it's looking doubtful that they'll be able to meet that schedule.

One thing I have noticed about Comcast (I've worked for all 4 past provders) is they have delivered ahead of schedule on upgrades, and they turn them on in portions. ATT and TCI would wait untill the whole thing was built and turn it on at once.

Upgrades are not seen as something that needs to be done to satisfy a franchise agreement, they are survival.

Originally posted by edraven
15'. ;)

Here's a money is no object solution: http://www.ramelectronics.net/html/1394_fiber.html

Oops, hit that shift key by accident... ;)

Originally posted by DCTDictator
Ashamedly, I take information from that page and use it for announcements. Since joining the forum I have a better understanding of why I got phone calls from customer service asking me to "turn on the firewire" or things like that.

Now I have heard that the RF bypasses on HD boxes that have it do not function. I understand the need and I've got some ammo to send the requests off to addressability gurus.

Hmm, I thought most of the HD boxes came with the STD module instead of the RF Bypass Module... I still haven't had the time to do the swap due to the cable mess back there.

Originally posted by fender4645
Ok, so I pulled the 6200 from the living room and swapped it with the 2000 that's been giving me problems and it looks like it's working. The weird thing is that when I got it hooked up, the VOD was working but my cable modem started wigging out. After doing a Master Reset on the cable modem, it started working again. Hmmmmmm. I really hope it's not a bandwidth issue. My cable modem has been doing this a lot lately and hoping it's just because it's an old model from the AT&T days.

By the way, does anyone know if I can swap cable modems at the Comcast office? I figure I might as well get an updated one if I'm going to exchanging the cable box as well.

I went to the Pleasant Hill office today and exchanged both my cable box and cable modem. They rep just gave me another DCT2000 saying it was probably just a bum box and that this one should work. Not wanting to argue with her, I accepted it and connected it at home. The problem is that it has the old software on it -- the one that doesn't have the new menu with 'On Demand' on it. When I try to go to Channel 1, it just says "This channel will be available shortly".

Will the software automatically be downloaded to the box at some point in the near future? Or do I need to call someone to have downloaded?

And, is anyone using a 5100 or 6200 on an SD TV? Do you get charged extra?

Originally posted by davisdog
You might be surprised on how critical DSL is part of their plan.


The #1 item at the top of their last Earnings report was...

"446,000 increase in DSL lines, to reach nearly 4 million in service, up 60 percent over past four quarters"

If they don't meet their projections they will get hammered by the market.

I'm not sure what their margin is on DSL, but since the line is free (ie you just ride over the phone line and they already make money off the phone line) I'm sure there making something every month and when you multiple that by 4Million...

anyway...back on subject :)

Also keep in mind that SBC makes money on *all* DSL sales for SBC line customers, whether you buy the Internet service from them or not.

So if you buy DSL internet from a regional provider, like Sonic in Santa Rosa, most of the money you pay Sonic each month gets paid through to SBC for the line (assuming you have SBC as your line provider).

I am getting very bad pixelization on HBO's HD channel (197) in Saratoga. All other channels are fine. This seemed to get much worse with the recent 7.10 firmware. Is anyone else having this problem? I get the pixelization on the component outputs and the firewire output of the 6200.

Originally posted by bpearse
I am getting very bad pixelization on HBO's HD channel (197) in Saratoga. All other channels are fine. This seemed to get much worse with the recent 7.10 firmware. Is anyone else having this problem? I get the pixelization on the component outputs and the firewire output of the 6200.

Aracnaphobia coming in fine here in Moraga (East Bay) on HBO-HD. Also version 7.10 firmware.

Originally posted by bpearse
I am getting very bad pixelization on HBO's HD channel (197) in Saratoga. All other channels are fine. This seemed to get much worse with the recent 7.10 firmware. Is anyone else having this problem? I get the pixelization on the component outputs and the firewire output of the 6200.

Do you see it all the time now?

I havent noticed any issues since the update to 7.10 in saratoga. I just watched a couple minutes of the HBO movie on now and don't see any pixelization issues via component (nor have I see any recently although I havent watched that much HBO)

I only see pixelization on very fast motion but I also get ocasional audio drop outs and freezing pictures. I would say 3 - 1 second drop-outs in a 2 hour movie. Not terrible but not great either.
Dish network was much worse in this regard.
Does anybody think a service call would help?
thanks,
Sam

New in this forum as well as new in the EDTV, HDTV. If you buy and EDTV with 480p capability, will you be needing an HDTV box from comcast or the standard cable box be enough? Thank you.

Originally posted by FiloD
New in this forum as well as new in the EDTV, HDTV. If you buy and EDTV with 480p capability, will you be needing an HDTV box from comcast or the standard cable box be enough? Thank you.

The standard box only has composite connections (supporting 480i)...You'll want the HD box if you want to use component cables and take advantage of 480P

Thank you Davis... without your clarification, it is always my impression that only HDTV will need the HD Cable Box. I could have missed a lot not enjoying a 480p without this forum...

I am currently paying $5.00 for my second standard box (one is free having subscribed to Digital Classic). If I exchange the second box to an HD Box, will that be an additional $5.00 to Comcast? Thanks again.

Hello all...

This question is mainly for DCTDictator and Sonomasearcher, but any input from anyone would be great. I live in between SF and Sac. I currently have HD through Comcast, but only get ESPNHD, INHD 1&2, and HBOHD(which I subcsribe to) I know everyone else has the major networks in HD, but I don't. I called comcast and they didn't have any answers for me as to why. I spoke to a technician that I saw working in my neighborhood. He told me that there is some on going court issue as to whether or not my area would be supplied by the Sac region or the SF region, and that that is why I didn't get any of the major networks in HD. Does anyone know of this situation, and whether or not it is true. Any info would be great, thanks everyone...

I have lots of HD signal dropout. Probably about 5 or 6 an hour where the audio, video, or both will 'flicker' (the audio stumbles and my amp as to re-set the feed 'type' and/or the video will pixelate and sometimes freeze for a few seconds).

Is there anything that can be done about this? If I let comcast know, will they be able to do anything or am I stuck?

I prefer HD to regular TV (obviously), but I do wish I had as much signal stability in HD as I do in regular digital/analog cable.

Originally posted by Neo57
Hello all...

I called comcast and they didn't have any answers for me as to why.

Bad answer - I'd push on and ask whom to contact - either the TV stations, networks or Comcast operations.

I have no info on issues like this beyond my area - It sounds like a local red tape issue - if there are no HD locals in your guide lineup, it's not a technical reason.

Originally posted by davisdog
Do you see it all the time now?

I havent noticed any issues since the update to 7.10 in saratoga. I just watched a couple minutes of the HBO movie on now and don't see any pixelization issues via component (nor have I see any recently although I havent watched that much HBO)

Well, the pixelization I see seems to come and go. One night it is great, another night it breaks up every 5-10 seconds, as if I were watching DishNetwork with a poorly aimed dish. I have not seen the issue for the past couple days now, so maybe it is solved. I guess I could look at the diagnostics to see my signal strength. Anyone know what signal strength to expect??

I looked at my SNR, and I was at 32.3. I replaced some cables, and removed any splitters I had, and got it up to 34.7. Is that about the range others are getting? My ACG is 53%, whatever that means.

You can find SNR by powering the unit off, hitting the select button on the front panel quickly after power off, and then scroll down to the "In Band" box (I think that is the name).

Originally posted by bpearse
I looked at my SNR, and I was at 32.3. I replaced some cables, and removed any splitters I had, and got it up to 34.7. Is that about the range others are getting? My ACG is 53%, whatever that means.

You can find SNR by powering the unit off, hitting the select button on the front panel quickly after power off, and then scroll down to the "In Band" box (I think that is the name). 32.3 to 34.7 is a significant difference in terms of avoiding drop outs and PQ problems. What you need is a consistent "Good' SNR (as opposed to "Fair"). 32.7 is definitely in the "Fair" range. I think 35+ is optimal.

Also, you want 0 uncorrectable errors and virtually 0 correctable errors (except on InHD, which seems to have significantly more correctable errors than any other HD channel-- although usually without any effect on PQ or sound that I can notice).

Read miatasm's FAQ website for more information (link in some posts above or in the 5100/6200 thread).

It's been reported on the HD DVR thread that the 6412 is being beta tested now on some west coast systems. The poster, who is reliable, thought they would be in customers' hands by October or November (of course, regardless of how reliable his information, such projections are ALWAYS subject to change-- especially depending on how well the beta testing goes).

Anyone heard anything about these dual tuner DVR's being beta tested in the Bay Area or elsewhere in No Cal ? DCT Dictator?

This is in line with the timescale I had been told about.

The 6412 has an agressive timetable for the rollout. If the 6412 is being tested anywhere I would guess it is in the Seatle area, as thats where Comcast is running the Microsoft TV trial.
I'm not sure, but I think that TV Guide software has not offically supported Dual tuner yet. Hence the only place to test one in an area with microsoft tv.

PS I've seen the Microsoft TV offering and it looks good.

There may be high level testing SOMEWHERE but I cannot say where.

Nothing else on the horizon in my yard except HD comes to my pondee next month. Then VOD for South Bay. Then DVR.

Originally posted by bpearse
I looked at my SNR, and I was at 32.3. I replaced some cables, and removed any splitters I had, and got it up to 34.7. Is that about the range others are getting? My ACG is 53%, whatever that means.

You can find SNR by powering the unit off, hitting the select button on the front panel quickly after power off, and then scroll down to the "In Band" box (I think that is the name).

BPearse,

I'm getting 35.7-36.3 for SNR on my digital channels and a good picture in Saratoga...The cables have all been replaced in the last 2 years or so including the line from the pole to the house, but I do have a fair amount of splitters inside etc...It may be worth having comcast come up and turn up the signal from the street or rerun the line to the house if you think you are pretty clean inside. AGC was 52% on HBOHD, 49% on ESPNHD..I'm not sure what that means. 0 uncorrectable errors, but I do see an average of around 60 correctable on ESPNHD and 360+ on HBOHD.

-Steve

Originally posted by davisdog
BPearse,

I'm getting 35.7-36.3 for SNR on my digital channels and a good picture in Saratoga...The cables have all been replaced in the last 2 years or so including the line from the pole to the house, but I do have a fair amount of splitters inside etc...It may be worth having comcast come up and turn up the signal from the street or rerun the line to the house if you think you are pretty clean inside. AGC was 52% on HBOHD, 49% on ESPNHD..I'm not sure what that means. 0 uncorrectable errors, but I do see an average of around 60 correctable on ESPNHD and 360+ on HBOHD.

-Steve

All those errors! Davis, does your cable box study enough? If I were you, I would ground that sucker. No going out with his Moto buddies, no going out looking for Sci Atl's to pick fights with, no cruising for one of those hot, new 6412 babes. Nope. You make it stay home and stop making so many mistakes!

:D :D

Seriously - I am getting 34.6-35.5 SNR, AGC of 57%, and 0-2 errors on the digital channels. But then, I make my 5100 stay home after school - no going out UNTIL his homework is done.

dandrewk,

Ahh...but I have a 6200 with a faster CPU...he gets bored with the simple stuff that comes across for line for the 5100 and 2100's so he actually creates his own errors then corrects them just for practice...He hopes to enroll in Advance Placement courses and so when he goes back to DCTDictators lab he can graduate and become a 6412 before everybody else.

I've been trying to get my cabling down. Using the cables that the tech installed I get InBand SNR of about 31 which seems low given people's reactions here and the really bad news is that my AGC is around 80%!

This is going through a surge protector and a splitter (to fork the analog signal for my TiVo). If I hook up directly to the 6200 (via about 20' of their own coax cable) then I only get about 32-33 SNR and 74% AGC. Some day soon I'll try moving the box closer to the wall and use one of the smaller cables that he made to see what the max I can expect is, but I fear that I still won't get to 35 SNR and can't imagine getting down to the 50's on AGC. Oddly enough I frequently get 0 errors of either type even with the SNR around 31 and the AGC around 80.

I tried some aftermarket "boutique" coax cables and the figures either stayed the same or got worse - cute.

If connecting to the wall socket with a very short cable ends up giving me decent figures then any recommendations on where I can get 20' of coax that won't screw up the signal? I can live without the surge protection on the coax, but I can't live without the splitter (only one wall socket, TiVo *must* record my regular shows and I need the 6200 to get HD - can't wait for the HD PVRs...).

My wife reported Comcast trucks in our neighborhood (Northern Emerald Hills) yesterday and says that our cable was out for at least an hour.

This seems promising in terms of Comcast meeting the June 21 target for the upgrade of the San Mateo county system mentioned earlier. I'm keeping my fingers crossed.

B

For those who haven't see it yet: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=411507

Anyone know exactly when the Bay Area will get it?

Originally posted by fender4645
For those who haven't see it yet: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=411507

Anyone know exactly when the Bay Area will get it?

Glad it was finally announced...I dont know for sure but sounds like it should be popping up in the next couple weeks...

Although its just a tease for me, since we are still bandwidth constrained on the 550Mhz system. No room for Inhd1/2 so I suspect no Dsc-HD until they cutover to the new infrastucture :(

Originally posted by davisdog
Glad it was finally announced...I dont know for sure but sounds like it should be popping up in the next couple weeks...

Although its just a tease for me, since we are still bandwidth constrained on the 550Mhz system. No room for Inhd1/2 so I suspect no Dsc-HD until they cutover to the new infrastucture :(

Yeah, I'm wondering about that also and what makes it worse is that according to the local Comcast tech people(Santa Rosa) the upgrade to 750 or 860 in my area won't happen for a year or longer. Discovery HD is one of the few reasons I'm still hanging on to D*

Jim

Originally posted by keenan
Yeah, I'm wondering about that also and what makes it worse is that according to the local Comcast tech people(Santa Rosa) the upgrade to 750 or 860 in my area won't happen for a year or longer. Discovery HD is one of the few reasons I'm still hanging on to D* I'm hoping they drop, or move to digital, an analog channel to make room for DiscoveryHD and FSNHD. Don't know if that would be possible, though.

Speaking of FSN-HD, any more definitive word on when it will be available?

On monday I'm going to try and get an answer from a contact I have at Comcast here in Santa Rosa and see what he says. I am going to ask if Discovery HD will be added to 550 systems and if not does Comcast have any alternative method in mind, maybe the analog to digital channel switch. I think that would involve carriage agreements and juggling of customers service plans though.

Jim

I've got a request for you guys:

If someone could please tune to VH1 Classic (473, I think? It's right next to MTV Hits here, which is 472), and let me know what you see in regards to how the screen is positioned?

I have a 6200 here and both on a regular and HDTV, the icon in the lower right corner of the screen is cut off. It reads "Classi" and the letter c has simply gone off the edge of the screen. A 2xxx series we have here does not do this.

We have also compared this with CNN and the various icons and graphics it places around the screen, comparing the 6200 to the TV's built-in tuner. Everything seems to be moved slightly to the left on the 6200 compared to the TV tuner and the 2xxx. Is this only me, or is it affecting everybody?

Also, I've noticed a PQ loss on analog channels comparing to the TV's tuner, but I assume that's just because of all the additional circuitry the feed travels through.

Originally posted by michaelc

Also, I've noticed a PQ loss on analog channels comparing to the TV's tuner, but I assume that's just because of all the additional circuitry the feed travels through.

The picture quality loss is due to the Analog to Digital conversion that the 6200 does...They have significantly improved the quality through firmware updates (it used to be a lot worse)...But it's still not as good as an analog tuner...

Does anybody know the status of the Sunnyvale area upgrade, and/or when we'll see some new HD channels?

Currently, we're still without InHD/InHD2, and with the recent announcement of Comcast getting Discovery HD, I'm now curious about when I'll be able to get these.

I'm an "expanded basic + HD box" subscriber right now. I suspect I'll soon add at least digital classic, but I'm holding off since it only offers me ESPN-HD and a bunch of SD channels I don't care for. But if digital classic gives me a few more HD channels, and perhaps a few SD channels I actually want (ahem, "Discovery Wings"), that's a different ball game.

of course, I'll probably crack at the start of NFL season anyway just to get ESPN-HD, if Sunday Night Football is in HD.

I called and spoke with a CSR to ask these questions, but he didn't have any information on future channel availability (or 6208 DVR availability ... I had to ask of course :) )

Originally posted by Poochie
Does anybody know the status of the Sunnyvale area upgrade, and/or when we'll see some new HD channels?



I know they are working on it, but dont know the timeline (hopefully soon). They did do did some channel realignment about a week ago in S'Vale (at least in the area west of Elcamino)...I don't think they added any new channels really (i assume you've checked lately to see if you can tune to 195/196), but at least its some prep work.

Originally posted by davisdog
The picture quality loss is due to the Analog to Digital conversion that the 6200 does...They have significantly improved the quality through firmware updates (it used to be a lot worse)...But it's still not as good as an analog tuner... Makes sense. Thanks.

BTW, do you have the horizontal picture shift I do on SD? At this point I don't know if this is a 6200 general issue or just my box issue. Know it's nothing with the feed because the SD Comcast box is centered properly according to all my other tuners.

Originally posted by michaelc

BTW, do you have the horizontal picture shift I do on SD? At this point I don't know if this is a 6200 general issue or just my box issue. Know it's nothing with the feed because the SD Comcast box is centered properly according to all my other tuners.

sorry they don't have VH1 Classic yet in my area

There were lot of dropouts, frozen/black screens during yesterday's game on comcast ABC-HD. Was it a south bay specific problem or everybody saw that?

Originally posted by lpaxmember
There were lot of dropouts, frozen/black screens during yesterday's game on comcast ABC-HD. Was it a south bay specific problem or everybody saw that?

Same thing happened in Fremont

Originally posted by lpaxmember
There were lot of dropouts, frozen/black screens during yesterday's game on comcast ABC-HD. Was it a south bay specific problem or everybody saw that?

experienced the same thing in sunnyvale.

Darn Comcast trying to ruin my enjoyment of a Pistons win and a Lakers unravelling.

Have any of you noticed dropouts and frozen screens on ESPNHD also?
I have seen them on both HD and SD events. The audio/picture froze/stuttered a couple of times yesterday during the LA/Boston baseball game, and I have also seen it in the past.

Any ideas?

Originally posted by lpaxmember
There were lot of dropouts, frozen/black screens during yesterday's game on comcast ABC-HD. Was it a south bay specific problem or everybody saw that?

I think it was the ABC problem. It was the same OTA

Rohnert Park, CA Comcast 5100 box...

I watched the last half of the 3rd quarter and the entire 4th quarter with no drop outs or glitches (freezes or pixelization)... This is actually unusual for me. I found this forum because I was searching for answers as to why my HD channels kept glitching, often to the point of unwatchable.

Of course, as soon as I learned about the diagnostics screen, the problems seem to have stopped, making it impossiblr to troubleshoot.

I'm sure it says somewhere in these thousands of posts... but if somebody has a moment... What are the best indicators of what might be responsible for these glitches? SNR, AGC. OOB?? Any help with acronyms or general guidance of waht to look at when my HD channels are glitching would be greatly appreciated...

Thanks,

-Dave

I am getting conflicting data from the Comcast CSRs (yea, big suprise, right?) on the availability of INHD1 and 2 in Saratoga. I decided to upgrade to digital based on a CSR saying it was available, but it does not show up. In fact, the 6200 will not even tune to 195/196 which are the INHD channels.

Is anyone in Saratoga getting INHD1 and 2???

Bob

Originally posted by davedela


I'm sure it says somewhere in these thousands of posts... but if somebody has a moment... What are the best indicators of what might be responsible for these glitches? SNR, AGC. OOB?? Any help with acronyms or general guidance of waht to look at when my HD channels are glitching would be greatly appreciated...

Thanks,

-Dave

Dave,

Scroll back about 15 posts or so and you will see some discussion on it.

SNR >35.0 is good
AGC around 50% (although I'm not sure how much that affects it)
Should be getting 0 uncorrectable errors.

-Steve

Originally posted by bpearse
I am getting conflicting data from the Comcast CSRs (yea, big suprise, right?) on the availability of INHD1 and 2 in Saratoga. I decided to upgrade to digital based on a CSR saying it was available, but it does not show up. In fact, the 6200 will not even tune to 195/196 which are the INHD channels.

Is anyone in Saratoga getting INHD1 and 2???

Bob

Rule #1...trust this forum, not the CSRs

InHD1/2 is not available in Saratoga, Milpitas and Los Gatos since they are still running 550Mhz Networks with don't have enough space (also missing Cinemax and StarzHD..unlikely that we will get DiscoveryHD when it comes out in the rest of the Bay Area over the next few weeks)..upgrade to 750Mhz+ is in progress but no date for cutover...Same holds true for parts of Sunnyvale.

Jeez! Why does Comcast even have CSRs when they have not once been able to help me or even provide a correct answer. First the 6200 firewire fiasco, now this. My Bill from December of 2003 shows INHD1 and 2 are offered in Saratoga. And every CSR, after making me hold for 10-20 minutes, has come back saying it is offered. Frustrating.


Thank god for this forum...

Bob

Originally posted by davisdog
SNR <35.0 is good

Shouldn't that be "SNR > 35.0 is good"?

You want lots of signal and low noise so "signal" to "noise" should be high...

Originally posted by flar
Shouldn't that be "SNR > 35.0 is good"?

You want lots of signal and low noise so "signal" to "noise" should be high...

Yup...I wasnt paying enough attn to what I was typing..I corrected the post..thanks for catching it.

Just thought I'd ask our resident insider if he had any information about DiscoveryHD in the Bay Area... Lots of rumblings about it for Comcast, but who cares about the rest of the country!

Russ

dctdictator's #1 priority is for his own company to get HD to his house (much less adding new channels)...I think he mentioned he finally gets it next month where he lives... :)

Anybody have problems in San Jose with the first 2 or 3 scan lines on Mot 6200 containing "noise" on the HD local channels? Pixels randomly turning on and off on the first 2 to 3 lines of the display.

Keith,

I am in Saratoga and do not have this issue. But what you are describing sounds like the typical data information that is on the top couple scan lines of a lot of TV material, both HD and SD. You usually do not see it because of overscan (it is off your screen). Do you have your TV set up for very low overscan??

I have a 5100 in Los Gatos. What Comcast office can I go to swap it for a 6200? Someone mentioned going to Milpitas in order to get a 6200.

Also was wondering if the music channels (900's) output over the firewire (connected to mac).

Thanks.

Originally posted by davisdog
With the Basic ($15) package + $5 for HD Box you get the HD Locals (currently CBS, ABC, NBC, PBS..later UPN and WB when added along with analog channels 1-32).

For limited basic in the south bay I pay $9.99 + $5 for HD box. Actually my bill says $13.09 for limited basic and then there is a $3.10 service discount which makes it $9.99. I used to get limited basic for $5.99/month but I guess that rate ended. Anybody know how I can get it again. Or maybe I shouldn't bring it up if limited basic is supposed to be $15.

Originally posted by bpearse
Keith,

I am in Saratoga and do not have this issue. But what you are describing sounds like the typical data information that is on the top couple scan lines of a lot of TV material, both HD and SD. You usually do not see it because of overscan (it is off your screen). Do you have your TV set up for very low overscan??

Yup, it looks like data. It is driving a 50" Fujitsu plasma (P50XHA30WS). In the user menus, there is no adjustment for overscan, only position as far as I know. Looks like I need to talk to Fujitsu. Thanks for your help

keith

Since I'm hoping to upgrade from a 5100 to a 6200, thought I'd ask here if I should also upgrade/swap my cable modem when I go into the office. I read something about a higher speed service being available or planned (3 mb??). Anyone know what the latest high speed internet offering is for the south bay and what cable modem is the latest/best/fastest? Thanks.

Originally posted by tivoyahoo
Since I'm hoping to upgrade from a 5100 to a 6200, thought I'd ask here if I should also upgrade/swap my cable modem when I go into the office. I read something about a higher speed service being available or planned (3 mb??). Anyone know what the latest high speed internet offering is for the south bay and what cable modem is the latest/best/fastest? Thanks.

Comcast upgraded my area (Moraga, Contra Costa) to 3 MB about 6 months ago. I'm not sure if the 750MHz system is required for this or not. Either way, your cable modem should support it regardless of what your D/L speed is. I had an old RCA cable modem from the days of AT&T and it worked fine with the 3 MB upgrade, although I recently swapped it for a newer Motorola modem (for reasons unrelated).

Originally posted by fender4645
Comcast upgraded my area (Moraga, Contra Costa) to 3 MB about 6 months ago. I'm not sure if the 750MHz system is required for this or not. Either way, your cable modem should support it regardless of what your D/L speed is. I had an old RCA cable modem from the days of AT&T and it worked fine with the 3 MB upgrade, although I recently swapped it for a newer Motorola modem (for reasons unrelated).


How much is the 3mb service? I pay 42.95 + $3 modem lease for "CHSI" as it's listed on my bill - Cable High Speed Internet I'm guessing is what it stands for. There is no mention of speed, but I've tested it at between 1.2 and 1.8mb. I have the older RCA cable modem supplied by AT&T (or maybe it was @home). I believe Los Gatos is not 750 Mhz. Anyone know if Los Gatos has 3mb service? Anyone have the pricing details on the different speed tiers? Thanks.

Originally posted by tivoyahoo
Since I'm hoping to upgrade from a 5100 to a 6200, thought I'd ask here if I should also upgrade/swap my cable modem when I go into the office. I read something about a higher speed service being available or planned (3 mb??). Anyone know what the latest high speed internet offering is for the south bay and what cable modem is the latest/best/fastest? Thanks.

Saratoga, Los Gatos, Milpitas is still 1.8Mbs Download...DCTdictator thought it would be upgraded to 3Mb in the near future. Cable modem shouldn't really matter (they are all Docsis compliant)...if you have problems with your existing you can swap it out, but in this case if it aint broke don't fix it (I have an RCA in Saratoga which works fine for me..used to have an original GI Surfboard 2100 that needed to be shot).

If it's right by you, try the Comcast office on University Ave. They are small, not sure if they'll do it...I would go in the back and look through their pile to find one for them since they may not know what you mean by the one with firewire.. I swapped mine at the milpitas office (237 in the shopping center with the AMC theatre).

ps...your price will remain the same and you are correct, HSI is high speed internet..I believe the C= comcast

davisdog, thanks for the details. Is the 3mb upgrade dependent on going to 750 mhz or can it happen prior?

It sounds like the Los Gatos office may not have 6200 since you didn't mention them?? the only one with firewire is the 6200 right? and all 6200's have firewire, right? Should I keep my 5100 silver remote, or swap it too?

I was thinking of going to dsl for $26.95/month but if the upgrade should happen soon then I guess that will justify the $42.95

also, if you know, I still have an old LanCity cable modem from @home that I used at another location in the late 90's with @home. There is a picture of the modem here: http://www.inwap.com/inwap/chez/CableModem.html

I was told by comcast that it wouldn't work (apparently it wasn't docsis compliant). Is that correct? Or could I use the lan city cable modem and save the $3/month equipment lease. I suspect that the lan city is nothing more than a boat anchor but I haven't pitched it overboard yet since I wasn't sure.

Also, if I was to buy and own a cable modem to save the $3 is there one that is best for the Santa Clara headend? And can I make the swap myself and return the rca back to Comcast? Do I have to schedule a tech? Do I have to phone in the new modem serial no. or anything?

lastly, I used to get ESPN-HD with my limited basic service (I used to get HBO HD and Sho HD too). Is that now encrypted on Santa Clara head end systems? I think I read that it was spotty. Can I add the 9.95 digital cable to my 9.99 limited basic or do I have to have expanded basic to add on digital cable (and ESPNHD). In other words, what's the least I can pay to get ESPN HD added. I pay 9.99 lim basic + $5 HD box now.

Thanks

Originally posted by tivoyahoo
davisdog, thanks for the details. Is the 3mb upgrade dependent on going to 750 mhz or can it happen prior?

It sounds like the Los Gatos office may not have 6200 since you didn't mention them?? the only one with firewire is the 6200 right? and all 6200's have firewire, right? Should I keep my 5100 silver remote, or swap it too?

I was thinking of going to dsl for $26.95/month but if the upgrade should happen soon then I guess that will justify the $42.95

also, if you know, I still have an old LanCity cable modem from @home that I used at another location in the late 90's with @home. There is a picture of the modem here: http://www.inwap.com/inwap/chez/CableModem.html

I was told by comcast that it wouldn't work (apparently it wasn't docsis compliant). Is that correct? Or could I use the lan city cable modem and save the $3/month equipment lease. I suspect that the lan city is nothing more than a boat anchor but I haven't pitched it overboard yet since I wasn't sure.

Also, if I was to buy and own a cable modem to save the $3 is there one that is best for the Santa Clara headend? And can I make the swap myself and return the rca back to Comcast? Do I have to schedule a tech? Do I have to phone in the new modem serial no. or anything?

lastly, I used to get ESPN-HD with my limited basic service (I used to get HBO HD and Sho HD too). Is that now encrypted on Santa Clara head end systems? I think I read that it was spotty. Can I add the 9.95 digital cable to my 9.99 limited basic or do I have to have expanded basic to add on digital cable (and ESPNHD). In other words, what's the least I can pay to get ESPN HD added. I pay 9.99 lim basic + $5 HD box now.

Thanks

I was under the impression that 3Mb may come before 750Mhz, but I don't think dictactor knew when 750 was coming..hopefully both soon!!!!

I mentioned the Los Gatos office (on University) may have them...I've never checked there though..Yes, 6200 will be the only one with Firewire (and all the ones have them)...You don't have to swap the remote but you can bring it to see if they have something better...

DCTDictator will know more about what modems would work, but I'd ditch that boat anchor you have...If you do buy a docsis system locally, you can swap it yourself although you'll need to call in and give them the MAC address I believe (and then drop off the old one).

If you arent getting ESPNHD now then it's encrpypted (I have digital classic so I get it)...You can just add Digital Classic ($9.95) on top of what you pay now and you'll get ESPNHD and about 20 SD channels...also when they do the 750 cutover you'll also get Inhd1/2 in that package and probably DiscoveryHD when they bring that online.

-Steve

Originally posted by davisdog
I was under the impression that 3Mb may come before 750Mhz, but I don't think dictactor knew when 750 was coming..hopefully both soon!!!!

Does Sunnyvale have 3mb HSI? Isn't it still at 550Mhz? If 3mb is in Sunnyale, that would be a good sign for the 3mb not being dependent on 750 Mhz. Maybe DCTDictator can shed some light on this.

Originally posted by davisdog
You can just add Digital Classic ($9.95) on top of what you pay now and you'll get ESPNHD and about 20 SD channels

I figured that I would be forced to step up from Limited Basic (analog 2-32) to Expanded Basic (analog 2-76) in order to add Digital Classic, especially since ESPN isn't included in Limited Basic. In other words, is it possible to have ESPN HD as part of Digital Classic without having ESPN on the analog channel as part of Expanded Basic?

Originally posted by tivoyahoo
Does Sunnyvale have 3mb HSI? Isn't it still at 550Mhz? If 3mb is in Sunnyale, that would be a good sign for the 3mb not being dependent on 750 Mhz. Maybe DCTDictator can shed some light on this.

The 550 section of S'vale was still 1.8mb last I checked (my parents live their)...some of S'vale is 750 though..there's an old and new area


I figured that I would be forced to step up from Limited Basic (analog 2-32) to Expanded Basic (analog 2-76) in order to add Digital Classic, especially since ESPN isn't included in Limited Basic. In other words, is it possible to have ESPN HD as part of Digital Classic without having ESPN on the analog channel as part of Expanded Basic? [/QUOTE]

Like I said ;) you can add Digital Classic on top of your existing limited basic package...you don't need to have Standard (ie limited + expanded basic) You'll get ESPNHD with that (since you have an HD Box).

To correct others (and myself) it's not 3 Megabytes but rather 3 megabits which is about 375 KB/s.

While the 3 Mb pipes are cool, I doubt you're really going to notice the difference -- at least if you're just browsing the web. The only time you're really going to see the speed is if you're downloading something from a site that will actually support/permit you to use that much bandwidth, and those come few and far between. Most sites, at least in my experience, will top off at around 150 KB/s...maybe 200 KB/s. However there are a few places that don't limit the bandwidth and you'll see around 300 KB/s sustained. Keep in mind too that the upload is still the same: between 15 and 20 KB/s.

Originally posted by davisdog
I know they are working on it, but dont know the timeline (hopefully soon). They did do did some channel realignment about a week ago in S'Vale (at least in the area west of Elcamino)...I don't think they added any new channels really (i assume you've checked lately to see if you can tune to 195/196), but at least its some prep work.

Yes, I checked 195 / 196, and there's nothing in the guide for those. Trying to tune those on the 6200 doesn't work (as opposed to tuning a channel I'm not signed up for, like ESPN-HD, which remains on the tuned channel and displays the "not authorized, click Ok for ordering info" or some such message).

I do recall them doing a big re-org a few weeks ago (moving ESPN2 from 43 to 39 for instance) as my Tivo got a bunch of "moved" channels. But no INHD/INHD2, and nothing else new that I could see.

If it makes a difference, I'm in the area of Sunnyvale between El Camino and 101.

Anyway, I'll just keep my ears peeled for channels getting added. Thanks!

Originally posted by Poochie
I do recall them doing a big re-org a few weeks ago (moving ESPN2 from 43 to 39 for instance) as my Tivo got a bunch of "moved" channels. But no INHD/INHD2, and nothing else new that I could see.

Over the last few months, Comcast has been re-arranging the channel lineup throughout the Bay Area so everyone is lined up with each other. I don't believe this reorganization has anything to do with adding/removing channels.

Originally posted by fender4645
While the 3 Mb pipes are cool, I doubt you're really going to notice the difference -- at least if you're just browsing the web. [/B]

Are there any plans for Comcast to add pricing tiers to CHSI? say 42.95 for 3mb and lower for 1.8mb. If the 3Mb isn't of much functional use then maybe I should jump over to SBC Yahoo DSL now which is $26.95/month with free dsl modem. My neighbor gets 1.2-1.5 mbps on his dslreports.com speedtests through sbc yahoo dsl.

Originally posted by tivoyahoo
Are there any plans for Comcast to add pricing tiers to CHSI? say 42.95 for 3mb and lower for 1.8mb. If the 3Mb isn't of much functional use then maybe I should jump over to SBC Yahoo DSL now which is $26.95/month with free dsl modem. My neighbor gets 1.2-1.5 mbps on his dslreports.com speedtests through sbc yahoo dsl.

I was thinking the exact same thing. However, DSL requires a land line -- something I don't have or need. So if I add the cost of a basic land line to the cost of the Yahoo DSL, it turns out to be about $5 more then what I pay for Comcast. In regards to Comcast using the same pricing model, I could only see this happening if there was a mass exodus from cable modems to DSL. Considering SBC has been offering this deal for about a year now, Comcast probably would have done something by now.

Originally posted by tivoyahoo
Are there any plans for Comcast to add pricing tiers to CHSI? say 42.95 for 3mb and lower for 1.8mb. If the 3Mb isn't of much functional use then maybe I should jump over to SBC Yahoo DSL now which is $26.95/month with free dsl modem. My neighbor gets 1.2-1.5 mbps on his dslreports.com speedtests through sbc yahoo dsl.

Highly doubtful. One of the reasons the various cable companies increased bandwidth was so they didn't have to decrease prices to compete with DSL. I guess they would rather steadfastly hold on to those who insist on having the bigger pipe, than attract newer customers at a lower rate.

Originally posted by davisdog
Like I said ;) you can add Digital Classic on top of your existing limited basic package...you don't need to have Standard (ie limited + expanded basic) You'll get ESPNHD with that (since you have an HD Box).

Ok, I was double checking since I figured Comcast would tell me that ESPN was like HBO or Showtime in that you had to subsribe to the regular analog version of the channel in order to get the HD version. But now that I know, I can insist that I only be charged 9.95 more. Thanks davisdog.

Adding digital cable raises another comcast concern, particularly due to the recent channel reorganization. Furthermore, the 750mhz upgrade might mess up the setup I have now (see below). Does anyone know what part of the frequency that the HD and digital channels reside in (and the CHSI for that matter)? This is for Los Gatos.

The reason I ask that I have a DirectTV Tivo whose output signal I merge with the cable signal and distribute throughout the house to 5 tv's (all of which each also have limited basic cable). That's why I only have limited basic cable, because I can get all the rest of the channels off the dish using an RF remote to control the tivo from any room. On 1 tv I have a 5100 HD box and the network HD channels from comcast since OTA isn't a good option for me.

I don't use the channel 3/4 rf modulator of the tivo (since 3 & 4 are obviously used by the cable system), but instead use Radio Shack RF Modulator 15-1243 (www.radioshack.com/images/refguide/c04-p009.pdf) to modulate the tivo output to Channel 88. I can assign the signal to any channel 60-94 or 100-125. I picked 88 because the highest cable channel is 76 and it's easy to punch in channel 88 on the remote. I haven't had any problems receiving the HD network channels, nor have I had any cable modem problems so I am assuming my 88 feed is not stomping over any of those, but I'm not sure about the SD digital cable channels.

I've discussed using that channel with 2 different comcast technicians when they visited (once to add an outlet and once when they delivered the 5100 hd box). I showed them the setup and let them know that I was going to install a filter or amp to prevent channel 88 from leaking back into the neighborhood cable system. Both techs told me not to worry about it and that 88 was unused and that it wasn't an issue and to keep it the way it was. I'm not sure they knew for sure since they couldn't tell me where the CHSI service and digital cable channels resided.

Does channel 88 reside above 550mhz? Is there a different channel that is above 750mhz that I should use in anticipation of the upgrade? Of course it would have to be channel 125 or lower.

So my bottom line question is this, what channel is the best channel to use both to avoid: a) interference within the loop within my own home and b) leaking upstream and interfering with other signals potentially? In fact, what range of channels, as I was going to add a 2nd (maybe even a third) rf modulator for a baby monitor camera and another a/v component.

I realize I should probably block the upstream leakage even if comcast didn't care, particularly if I add in a camera. What's the best way to do this for the channel range above 76 and not in the digital cable/CHSI range? I'm thinking a filter or trap would do it, but I don't know what channel nos. I should be working with.

Any help/suggestions are appreciated. Thanks.

I recently had to re-establish my DSL service and decided to go for some more bandwidth. I signed up for a $45 deal for 3Mb/384Kb service from SBC/Yahoo. The line actually clocks at 4900/500 on dslreports.com. Reading other reports on dslreports.com it seems that in most cases they give you a 6Mb line when you order that service even though they only guarantee 3Mb. I frequently get over 500 Kilo*byte* per second sustained download speeds from a number of sites that I download large files from (software updates mostly).

That same service is now being advertised for $37 per month on their web site for any of the 408,415,650,510 area codes.

Downside is that you have to sign a 1-year contract to get this price and service...

nightowl is right. Creating a cheaper tier would cannibalize their current higher priced subs. In practice, if you threaten to leave comcast internet by calling to cancel, they'll beat the DSL price for the next 12 months to keep you. They don't need a lower priced tier to keep from losing subs.

The data services shouldn't be dependent on 750 Mhz upgrades. I had a friend in the old @Home days who were getting 4.5 Mbps downloads in Sunnyvale, so it's not a plant issue I don't think. I wonder if they just forget about sunyvale since a rebuild is in the future?

Flar, you are lucky - you'll only get that kind of performance from DSL if you are close to a CO. Is the network realiable for you? I have heard horror stories about SBC's DNS service...

Thanks,
Mike

Originally posted by MikeSM
Flar, you are lucky - you'll only get that kind of performance from DSL if you are close to a CO. Is the network realiable for you? I have heard horror stories about SBC's DNS service...

I should have clarified that, yes, I am fairly close to a CO, but others report getting >3Mb service that aren't as close. There is a CO distance calculator out there on the web, but last I searched on dslreports.com I couldn't find it. When you talk to their ordering department they can check the distance for you.

One thing to keep in mind, I used to pay for 1.5Mb service and got about 1.2Mb so service is dependent both on how close you are to the CO and what kind of pipe they hook you up with. I'm now paying for 3Mb service, if they had really hooked me up with a 3Mb line I would probably have been getting mid-2Mb performance, but they really ended up hooking me up with a 6Mb line (the modem says that the line speed is 6016Kbits) and thus I get my lions share of 6Mb instead of my share of 3Mb. Speed test reports on dslreports.com indicate that I'm not alone in that either.

I had spotted a comment on dslreports.com that indicated that it is pretty much standard that they hook you up with a 6Mb line when you buy the 3Mb service, though if you didn't get higher than 3Mb you'd have no contractual right to complain. One thing I just noticed, though, is that the web site no longer lists a 6Mb option (it used to be the "Pro" service for $80-$100, but now the 1.5-3Mb service is called "Pro" and it costs $37). I'm not sure what that means - either they decided to nix the 6Mb pricing tier because too many people were going for the cheaper 3Mb tier and getting the 6Mb service, or maybe they ran out of 6Mb lines? I'm at a loss there.

Also, I stated in my last message that this requires a 1-year contract. My impression is that Comcast internet does not require a contract? That could be a deciding factor for some people. Also, I think the internet service is cheaper if you have cable through them, so it would be less to get 3Mb cable than the 3Mb (yielding 6Mb) DSL service. If you don't have cable, or if an extra $10 or so is worth it for faster performance, then the DSL might be an option.

As far as DNS, yes, I have noticed some performance issues there, but nothing that I would use the word "horror" to describe. It might take 3-4 seconds to resolve a host the first time I visit a site after rebooting or waking up the computer, but then things get really zippy. I tried hardcoding a DNS server that was more reliable, and things seemed a little more prompt, but when my settings reverted back to the default servers, I didn't bother resetting them.

Just Fyi,

I live in Cupertino and my Comcast broadband speed is 2955/250 or so. IIRC, I needed to unplug my cable modem for 15 secs and reboot my Linksys router to get it to recognize the higher speed, when it became available.

Second, I'd DROP Comcast in a second if I could get DSL. (I'm too far from a CO) My thing isn't the download speed, I'd like faster UPLOAD. If I'm sending a PPT deck from home to the office it can take forever. Maybe DSL wouldn't be fast but I HATE Comcast, even though I have their HD service.

Also, speaking with SBC, they tell me they are rolling out lots of 'remote terminals' to accommodate the increased demand their seeing in places too far from a CO. They said, "watch this space". --- Fingers and eyes crossed.

Tim

Originally posted by flar
Also, I think the internet service is cheaper if you have cable through them, so it would be less to get 3Mb cable than the 3Mb (yielding 6Mb) DSL service. If you don't have cable, or if an extra $10 or so is worth it for faster performance, then the DSL might be an option.

CHSI is 42.95 if you subscribe to cable tv service of any sort, otherwise it's 56.95 if you don't. That 56.95 pricing started when Comcast took over from AT&T. With AT&T you could pay 42.95 and not have cable tv service. It was the same price regardless.

Originally posted by MikeSM
Creating a cheaper tier would cannibalize their current higher priced subs. Charter Communications Cable in the Central Valley offers more than one speed tier pricing for its cable high speed internet. My friend upgraded to the top tier (3mb for $39.99) in Modesto and I ran dslreports from his house and got consistent download speed of 3.8mb. I think his upload speed was better than comcast too.

Originally posted by MikeSM
if you threaten to leave comcast internet by calling to cancel, they'll beat the DSL price for the next 12 months to keep you

I tried this sometime last year and had zero luck with the CSR - they wouldn't budge. Maybe things have changed. Is there a particular department you have to speak to? What is the best strategy? Have others had success in getting a discount? Will Comcast actually beat the $26.95 dsl price?

Won't they just say that cable is faster that's why it's more? I've had luck with DirecTV discounting their Premier Package by $20 to compete with digital cable from Comcast, but I've never had luck with Comcast discounting their high speed internet.

flar, I'm curious about what dsl modem you're using. I contacted SBC and they said they would send a free Speedstream 5100 by Efficient Networks upon signup. Is that the one you're using? Also, flar, are you stuck at the $45 rate or did SBC let you get the new $37 rate?

Has anyone connected a FusionHDTV III Gold Card with QAM to comcast in the south bay?

Here are links to the card:

http://www.digitalconnection.com/Products/Video/fusion3qam.asp
http://www.dvico.com/products_mul_hd3.html

There are reports from Berkeley and Fremont that seem to differ as far as channels received in this thread:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=3933060#post3933060

I'm wondering if anyone has tried it on a 550mhz /Santa Clara headend system in the south bay.

Originally posted by davisdog
Rule #1...trust this forum, not the CSRs

InHD1/2 is not available in Saratoga, Milpitas and Los Gatos since they are still running 550Mhz Networks with don't have enough space (also missing Cinemax and StarzHD..unlikely that we will get DiscoveryHD when it comes out in the rest of the Bay Area over the next few weeks)..upgrade to 750Mhz+ is in progress but no date for cutover...Same holds true for parts of Sunnyvale.

Well, here is what the executive support staff at Comcast, who are supposed to be the most knowledgeable and helpful people in that company, have come back with as to why I am not getting INHD1 and 2 in Saratoga:


Good Afternoon Mr. Pearse,

Susan Nichol asked to assist her on this issue regarding the INHD 195 and INHD 196 channels you're not receiving: Here's what I found:

In order to receive those channels a customer has to subscribe to Digital Classic or higher plus Standard cable. You currently subscribe to Digital Classic plus Limited Basic. You would have to add Expanded Service to
receive these channels. I hope I answered your question. If you have any
further questions please call me @ 408-918-xxxx.


Greta Pulliam-Allen
Associate Supervisor Quality
1900 S. 10th Street
San Jose, Ca. 95112


Is she right? Is there ANYONE in Saratoga who has expnded basic and Digital tier, and does not INHD1 and 2?

bpearse,

There is a very simple answer to this question, I believe. Tune to ESPN HD (channel 193). Then hit the channel up key to go to the next higher channel. What do you see?

Let us know what you see and we can give you an answer.

It skips right past 193 to 197, which leads me to believe that 195/196 are not there at all. BUT, since with limited basic they insert a blocker which removes some channels, I thought maybe there was a .0001% chance Greta was correct, is that somehow 195/196 are being blocked before they get to the receiver, which would also cause it to just skip by those channels.

The only way to be 100% sure is to find someone with expanded basic and digital, and see if they get 195/196.

No, filters do not remove digital channels. Digital channels are received based on an encrypted, non-encrypted basis.

So the fact that there are no 195 and 196 on your system proves that Comcast has not added InHD and InHD2 to the channel lineup in your specific area.

Ask davisdog.

This is another illustration of how there are very few Comcast employees who have the knowledge necessary to answer early adopter/HDTV viewer questions.

Also, Greta was absolutely wrong that one needs Expanded Basic to get InHD. Nobody in the Bay Area has ever reported being required to have Expanded Basic to get InHD. Rather, assuming encryption, Digital Classic tier is required.

Yup...the .001% chance didnt work out this time on anything greta said.

Like Sonoma said...there are no filters/blockers that would prevent you from tuning to those channel numbers if the channels existed on the system. It simply doesnt exist in Saratoga, Milpitas or Los Gatos 550Mhz Networks (we all share the same path coming out of the head end on garrett street in Santa Clara)...PS, I've currently got Digital Premium (ie everything based on a special they offered) and 195/196 dont exist for me either to make you 100% sure.

The thing I don't know is when we get upgraded to 750Mhz...maybe you can play the irate customer and call Greta complaining about all the misinformation and wasted time you've had chasing this and your firewire issue down...See if she can find out from the local people in the know exactly when the 750Mhz upgrade will happen because you are looking at going with Satellite if your system isnt coming up to speed soon (boy if Voom had the HDPVR in, I might be out of here)

ps...I think DCTDictator works at the SJ office, maybe he can spill the facts to greta, although she may regret being mentioned here :)

Thanks, guys. That is what I thought. Comcast just seems to be very poorly run from a customer interface perspective. They are so incompetent, it is almost funny. It is a game to see what wrong piece of information they will provide me next.

Yes, I have escalated this latest fiasco to Comcast management again. I also have been working with the very helpful folks at the City of Saratoga, since they approve the Comcast license. The city was how I was able to resolve the 1394 issue, so maybe they can help here too......

Bob

a small clarification to sonoma and davisdog statements, the fact that you can not tune to a channel does not mean that the channel is not available in the system, it just means that it's not part of the virtual channel map (VCM) assigned to your box. Maybe, the services are available, but not added yet to your line up . comcast model is that ind 1 and 2 are part of digital classic package.

Bob,
Good luck, let us know if you hear anything (right or wrong). The upgrade to 750Mhz+ is the trigger. That will bring Inhd1/2...Also Discovery HD started showing today on some Comcast East Coast systems and should be popping up on the west coast in the next couple weeks...FoxSportsHD (Giants, A's etc...) should be up in the next 1-2 months in the Bay Area but we will likely be left out unit the bandwidth upgrade. VOD is also coming...

damn and I wish they'd let us have the 6208 HD DVR...

oh well..time to get out and enjoy the evening

-Steve

Originally posted by eriv16
a small clarification to sonoma and davisdog statements, the fact that you can not tune to a channel does not mean that the channel is not available in the system, it just means that it's not part of the virtual channel map (VCM) assigned to your box. Maybe, the services are available, but not added yet to your line up . comcast model is that ind 1 and 2 are part of digital classic package.

True...the box has to know the frequency to tune to since they don't assign digital channels in any order.... but not having the VCM updated would either mean they are just turning up the new channel or they've entirely screwed things up. In this case (and 99%+ of what we've seen on the board) I'm sure it means it doesnt exist on the system yet...thanks for being that up though.

eriv16,

When do you think Discovery HD will be up and running on Comcast L.A.? And what is the bandwidth on your systems down there? Just curious for comparative purposes.

Thanks.

199 - Cmax HD and 200 - Starz HD as of tonight at 9:20pm

The only place for Discovery HD to be mapped will be 194, as I am assuming 187 is being saved for Fox or WB. Or they can map all the HD channels to another range (300's or 700's), or put Discovery HD in the middle of some SD channels.

They could move the KQED multicast SD channels outside the HD range-- that would open 4 more channel numbers (189 to 192).

Simplest thing to create more consective channel numbers for HD channels probably would be to move the SD channel currently mapped to 201 somewhere else, which would open up 14 consecutive numbers (201 to 214).

I was at the Giants game today and had a chance to ask a FSNBA camera man the question we all want to know.

"When is FSN starting HD?"
Reply:
"I asked that question only recently. I was told in about a month. We will be doing about 40 games this year and by 2006 all the games will be in HD."

He explained that they need to upgrade the cameras provided by the rental company. Think he worked for the rental company not FSN. He was wearing a FOX baseball cap but i think this was just FSN rebranding the rented staff.

I hope this helps anyone out there like me who has been waiting for FSNBA-HD.

Originally posted by tivoyahoo
flar, I'm curious about what dsl modem you're using. I contacted SBC and they said they would send a free Speedstream 5100 by Efficient Networks upon signup. Is that the one you're using? Also, flar, are you stuck at the $45 rate or did SBC let you get the new $37 rate?

I got a new 5100 when I upgraded. I think they are preferring it now because it has a PPOE client built-in so they don't have to deal with customers installing and configuring software on their computers (with N different OS configs).

I called and tried to get a lower rate when they dropped it to $40, but they said that I had to subscribe to a group of services to get that rate and I only had basic phone service on that line (it exists as a DSL carrier and fax line). I haven't tried since they dropped it again to $37 and I don't see anything now that indicates that you need to get it as part of a package so maybe it's time to try again. If they give you a lower rate, btw, you have to agree to another year's commitment (so far, that hasn't been much of a concern for me).

Originally posted by SonomaSearcher
The only place for Discovery HD to be mapped will be 194, as I am assuming 187 is being saved for Fox or WB. Or they can map all the HD channels to another range (300's or 700's), or put Discovery HD in the middle of some SD channels.

They could move the KQED multicast SD channels outside the HD range-- that would open 4 more channel numbers (189 to 192).

Simplest thing to create more consective channel numbers for HD channels probably would be to move the SD channel currently mapped to 201 somewhere else, which would open up 14 consecutive numbers (201 to 214).

For my service I have a bunch of non-HD KQED channels right smack dab in the middle of my HD channel range. Do they really care if there are consecutive channel numbers for the HD block?

Well, they've already put all the HD channels together with the BIG exception of th KQED multicast channels. Perhaps the contract with KQED requires them to put all the channels next to each other; if so, they should put KQED either at the beginning or the end of the HD channels, so the KQED multicasting can precede or follow the HD KQED channel.

One would hope they care about putting all the HD channels together. This is what is done in all Comcast areas.

Sonoma, here in LA we have the bandwidth and i was told last week that we had signed all the contracts, but we do not have the gear to launch it. You see discovery HD was scheduled to launch last year, one of our the first HD channels, but since there was a hitch in the contacts we used the gear and the spectrum to launch CBS HD. Now we have the spectrum and the contracts, but not equipment. Actually, we have the mps, the cherry picker and the c8u but we do not have the receiver. Hopefully, in a couple of weeks we will get it.

Sonoma, our HE was built to 750 MHZ.

Last night around 7pm I started having problems with Comcast. Then I lost HBO, Showtime, and ESPNHD. But I got INHD1 and 2. Bunch of other digital channels turned on also, but I don't care for them. Still have StarZ and cinemax. I haven't check today if the situation is the same. Will check tonight when I get home.

I can't complain. I only pay $12.39 for analog service and the $5 for HD.

A question about the premium channels. Is there any way to get the premium channels with basic (or extended) analog?

I know the CSRs told me that I couldn't, and I haven't been able to tune any of them with my TiVo that is hooked up to the cable via an analog tuner, but I thought I'd ask here in case someone knows a trick.

BTW, when I ordered Comcast a month ago they said that I had to order a digitial tier to get HBO. I see people here with basic analog with HD on top of that which I also thought wasn't possible (learn something new every day). Is it really necessary to go digital to get the premium channels in the first place? (I'll probably keep digital for a while just to see what it's like, but I watch almost everything via TiVo so it's mostly a waste for me except for the HD channels...)

flar,

I had limited basic ($13 per month) and HDTV box ($5 per month) and HBO-HD ($17 per month). So you do NOT need digital tier to get HBO. But, if you want ESPN, INHD1 and 2, you will need the digital tier.

But, as I have found out, a few cities can not get INHD1 or 2, as well as some of the other HD channels due to bandwidth issues. The CSRs have no way to know if you can get them. You just have to try and if you do not, they will gladly refund your money.

Originally posted by bpearse
I had limited basic ($13 per month) and HDTV box ($5 per month) and HBO-HD ($17 per month). So you do NOT need digital tier to get HBO. But, if you want ESPN, INHD1 and 2, you will need the digital tier.

Thanks for that. If you get HBO-HD do you get it on any analog channel as well? I might drop back to that after a while since, if I can't record HBO and have to watch it live, I might as well just have the HD version (don't really need 5 or 6 channels of it).

But, as I have found out, a few cities can not get INHD1 or 2, as well as some of the other HD channels due to bandwidth issues. The CSRs have no way to know if you can get them. You just have to try and if you do not, they will gladly refund your money.

I do get INHD and ESPNHD, so that much is known. I actually have enjoyed some of the stuff on INHD so I'd probably miss it.

What I really need now is a Standalone HD TiVo...

Yes, I also get the non-HDTV HBO along with the HD HBO.

For the past couple of days, I've seen several Comcast trucks in my area of Sunnyvale (Mary/Fremont). My son even told me that they came to our door and "needed to see our cable panel" in the back yard. I have Comcast Digital Classic + HD service, and internet service through them, too.

When I got HD installed in April (?), the installer told me two things:

1. Sunnyvale was due for an upgrade soon which would provide room for more HD channels (duh...)
2. HSI was also being upgraded, and would soon be 3Mb speed. All that would be necessary to take advantage of it was to unplug the modem and plug it back in. It would reinitialize at the higher speed.

He told me we would be "notified" when either new channels or higher speed internet was available.

I'm hoping that the presence of trucks is a good thing!

My lastest communication with Comcast was that the 3.0Mb service for internet will be available the 3rd week in July for Saratoga. YMMV.

Bob

Originally posted by karlw2000
Last night around 7pm I started having problems with Comcast. Then I lost HBO, Showtime, and ESPNHD. But I got INHD1 and 2. Bunch of other digital channels turned on also, but I don't care for them. Still have StarZ and cinemax. I haven't check today if the situation is the same. Will check tonight when I get home.

I can't complain. I only pay $12.39 for analog service and the $5 for HD.

Noted the same thing -- it was still true @6am this morning. HBOHD, ShowtimeHD, & ESPNHD all said something they were subscription things & I should order them. But I'm platinum + HD so there's not much more I can pay for :rolleyes: . Must be something amiss @ their subscription DB or configuration/provisioning system.

(Reboot of 5100 box did no good...)

Originally posted by bpearse
My lastest communication with Comcast was that the 3.0Mb service for internet will be available the 3rd week in July for Saratoga. YMMV.

Bob

that's close to what I heard for 3Mb down (early summer)...

Interesting trivia DCTDictator sent me...Comcast calls our Cable segment "Saramilgatos" internally when they talk about our system since the infrastucture is shared by those 3 cities (Saratoga, Milpitas, Los Gatos...+ Monte Sereno who doesnt warrant a mention I guess)

bpearse,

Does the July upgrade of HSI to 3Mb mean that upgrade to 750Mhz is completed by that time also? Or are the two separate events?

-- Alvin

Alvin,

I have asked Comcast that and they have not answered. I am guessing they are very related, if not a 1:1 correlation.

Originally posted by bpearse
Yes, I also get the non-HDTV HBO along with the HD HBO.

I get non-HD HBO in the digital channels - several of them, but no analog channel with HBO (as far as I can tell). What channel are you getting the non-HD HBO on - is it just one channel and is it analog or digital?

Originally posted by flar
I get non-HD HBO in the digital channels - several of them, but no analog channel with HBO (as far as I can tell). What channel are you getting the non-HD HBO on - is it just one channel and is it analog or digital?

If you have limited basic + HD box + HBO, all that happens is comcast programs your box to allow you to see Analog 1-32 + The invidual digital channels that have HBO (4 SD + 1 HD I think?)..they also turn on the digital channels for the local HD (CBS etc...).

there is no need for analog HBO etc and they dont exist in the bay area anymore... (even if you dont subscribe to a digital "package" there is a requirement to have a digital Settop box to get it)

Originally posted by Wolfgang
bpearse,

Does the July upgrade of HSI to 3Mb mean that upgrade to 750Mhz is completed by that time also? Or are the two separate events?

-- Alvin

Separate. WAY separate.

DCTDictator,

Do you have any way to find out when Saratoga will be brought into the 21st century with 750MHz by Comcast? No one there has any idea what a MHz even is.

Originally posted by davisdog
If you have limited basic + HD box + HBO, all that happens is comcast programs your box to allow you to see Analog 1-32 + The invidual digital channels that have HBO (4 SD + 1 HD I think?)..they also turn on the digital channels for the local HD (CBS etc...).

there is no need for analog HBO etc and they dont exist in the bay area anymore... (even if you dont subscribe to a digital "package" there is a requirement to have a digital Settop box to get it)

Wow, they definitely told me I needed to subscribe to digital to get HBO.

On the other hand, what you tell me does confirm that I won't be able to record HBO channels on TiVo unless I either get a second STB or lose the ability to watch HD while TiVo is recording something... :-(

Thanks everyone for giving me some good info on what my options are!

Originally posted by bpearse
DCTDictator,

Do you have any way to find out when Saratoga will be brought into the 21st century with 750MHz by Comcast? No one there has any idea what a MHz even is.

Priority is to get all areas upgraded to 550 or better. There are other solutions to the bandwidth issue - 256 QAM, all digital or other new technology to add services and content.

But first the 330 systems need to get out of the 80s.

Hmmm. Leads me to believe that Saratoga will go without any additional HDTV channels for quite some time. Boy I wish one of the satellite firms would sell a 1394 enabled box!

Originally posted by bpearse
Hmmm. Leads me to believe that Saratoga will go without any additional HDTV channels for quite some time. Boy I wish one of the satellite firms would sell a 1394 enabled box!

My bet is the HD TiVo, with its USB2 port, will be the first. I suspect the DRM issues need to be worked out, but with Fox owning D*, it seems logical they would be the first.

Just imagine, a TiVo that acts as a PC hard drive.

yeah now...if October comes and Voom has their Networked PVR and 2nd Satellite online...

Originally posted by dandrewk
My bet is the HD TiVo, with its USB2 port, will be the first.

Just imagine, a TiVo that acts as a PC hard drive.

I would take FireWire any day of the week. USB is a protocol that was originally designed to transfer extrememly small amounts of data for external peripherals (i.e. mouse, keyboards, etc.). The advent of USB 2.0 was pretty much a "hack" in getting faster transfer speeds while using the same basic protocol. IEEE-1394 (FireWire), on the other hand, was built from the ground up as a way to transfer large amounts of data over a short distance. In fact, it was originally designed as a networking protocol to network multiple computers that were very close to each other (that's why a FireWire adapter will show up as a network device in Windows). I do a lot of hardware testing at my work and FireWire 400 is almost always faster then USB 2.0 which is supposed to be rated at ~600 Mb/s. Also, FireWire has error correction built in to the protocol -- something similar to SCSI -- while USB does not (because it wasn't meant to do what it's doing in the first place).

Sorry...probably a little too much information. :)

USB2 seems to integrate easier with Windows, which is no doubt why Hughes used it on the HD TiVo over Firewire.

Looking at the specs of the relatively few FW hard drives vs. USB2, it seems that USB drives more than hold their own. It may very well be that FW has faster real world transfer rates, but I would much rather see a seamless PC integration of DVR drives and not have to deal with 3rd party software to do transfers.

Originally posted by dandrewk
USB2 seems to integrate easier with Windows, which is no doubt why Hughes used it on the HD TiVo over Firewire.

That's not true. Remember, the initial release of XP didn't even support USB 2.0. Once SP 1 was released, then you could go back and use Windows Update to download drivers for your on-board controller. It's easy to think that USB "integrages easier" with Windows because motherboard manufacturers have been more inclined to put USB controllers on their system boards then FireWire. This is mainly because they can keep costs down if they only have to pay licensing fees for one technology rather then two. And since most people have older USB 1.1 peripherals, it's the most cost-effective choice. I'm not trying to say USB is piss-poor...I have many USB-based devices. It's just when it comes to large amounts of data transfer/streaming, I'd rather go with the technology that was designed to do this from the get-go. There's a reason why digital video cameras use the 1EEE-1394 interface.

Originally posted by nereus
Noted the same thing -- it was still true @6am this morning. HBOHD, ShowtimeHD, & ESPNHD all said something they were subscription things & I should order them. But I'm platinum + HD so there's not much more I can pay for :rolleyes: . Must be something amiss @ their subscription DB or configuration/provisioning system.

(Reboot of 5100 box did no good...)

In the Fremont area, I had the same problem, however I got back HBOHD & ESPNHD, however SHOHD is gone.
I only pay for HBO - ( Digital Silver), so can't complain.
So has Comcast fixed their system to encrypt their premium HD channels correctly ?

SR

Originally posted by fender4645
That's not true. Remember, the initial release of XP didn't even support USB 2.0. Once SP 1 was released, then you could go back and use Windows Update to download drivers for your on-board controller. It's easy to think that USB "integrages easier" with Windows because motherboard manufacturers have been more inclined to put USB controllers on their system boards then FireWire. This is mainly because they can keep costs down if they only have to pay licensing fees for one technology rather then two. And since most people have older USB 1.1 peripherals, it's the most cost-effective choice. I'm not trying to say USB is piss-poor...I have many USB-based devices. It's just when it comes to large amounts of data transfer/streaming, I'd rather go with the technology that was designed to do this from the get-go. There's a reason why digital video cameras use the 1EEE-1394 interface.

I think if you check, you will find firewire drives have had tons of problems with "not being found" by Windows. These could be isolated instances caused by legacy BIOS and, well, poor coding, but the same has rarely plagued USB drives. Just look at the difficulties of getting Windows to work with the 1394 ports on the Moto boxes. I have a hunch if USB was used those problems wouldn't have existed.

Digital video went FW mainly because Sony (the leader in digital video) chose FW from the get-go. They had no choice, really, as FW was much faster than USB 1.1. But check out their recent models - my F717 uses USB2.

The FW vs. USB debate is always a hot one. Really, as far as getting HD video into our PC's, we can't go wrong with either. The manufacturers and the studios have got to reach an agreement first; it's not about technology, it's all about digital rights.

The regular DirectTivo's are hackable so you can stream the stored video to a PC or Xbox XBMC - you can even remotely control the box via the ethernet interface that's able to be added.

The HD DirectTivo's are too new for this, but folks are hard at work now on letting users add a lot more disk space and disable the encryption on streaming...

Thanks,
Mike

Looks like whenever the KGO transmission disappears, KPIX and KQED HD channels also drop, indicating a link to Sutro. KNTV, INHD etc are OK.

Are you talking about the "This channel is unavailable" messages during Patch Adams? It kinda sucks that my wife was trying to watch that movie...going to be hard to keep spending money on more Comcast programming when they can't deliver the stuff she wants.....


I wonder(hope) that Comcast was running some tests to get ready for the launch of DiscoveryHD, FSNHD..and hopefully some other HD stations...

Discovery HD Theater, Discovery Networks' 24-hour HD channel, will be added to Comcast's HDTV package over the next several months. Comcast Digital Cable customers with HDTV service will be able to enjoy Discovery HD Theater's lineup of favorite shows like Trading Spaces, Rides and The Jeff Corwin Experience, as well as original specials and documentaries in a crystal-clear HD format, all at no additional charge. Through this new partnership with Comcast, Discovery HD Theater now has distribution agreements with virtually all major affiliates in the U.S.

I think the main question is when are WE getting it.

Originally posted by lpaxmember
I think the main question is when are WE getting it.

This was announced today on the Intranet.

It always helps when these notices are blasted out to everyone in the system - I don't get so many blank stares when I ask about it. Funny thing here is I take most of the requests I pick up here, carry them around the office and treat them like it's a personal issue - either something I want in my home or something I need to see in the test lab.

Well people, I'm getting tired of all you compaining about this and that, well at least you've GOT HDTV. I've been complaining in this forum for damn near 3 years and I still DON"T HAVE IT! Is there anybody still waitin' on Comcast? Let's here from you. Am I the only one? The silence is deafening.

Still waitin'

Originally posted by jjbenetti
....I still DON"T HAVE IT! Is there anybody still waitin' on Comcast? Let's here from you....Still waitin' Howdy there, Lone Ranger John! Over here in San Carlos we feel your pain. :p I've gone OTA (with MyHD and Fusion boards) but would still pay the $5 for freedom from weather's vagaries and reception of KBWB and KBHK, which are too far down in altitude on Sutro and/or xmitter power for me to catch over the Belmont ridgeline. If you're not nestled into a canyon, you might give OTA some consideration too--except that we're now hearing from Comcast that our HD feed is coming Real Soon Now. ;)

Recognizing that some HD is vastly better than no HD, I am still going to complain that InHD and InHD2 are out right now in the North Bay, and I am hacked about it!

Right now, the debut of Euro 2004 is happening on InHD2, and I can't watch it because Comcast's head end people have caused InHD & InHD2 to go on the fritz.

Anyone have the number for the head end (in Rohnert Park) handy? Arggggh!

Is it still out? I noticed this happened at around 10AM in the morning. I assumed the INHD's went out so that they could use the bandwith to test Discovery and Fox Sports. It seemed like the right time to do so as everyone but me is working.

haha...nobody's happy...I have some HD which is better than San Carlos, R-City and SJ..but we never have had enough bandwidth to even sample InHD1/2 so no sympathy for you Sonoma :)

btw Michaelc...I highly doubt the reason its out is do to DSC or FSNHD testing...

Residents of Saratoga, Los Gatos, Milpitas and Monte Sereno,

I am working to make a proposal to the City of Saratoga to select a second cable service provider. Since Saratoga also shares a head end today with Los Gatos, Milpitas and Monte Sereno, we may want to combine city efforts on this. My research has shown that many cities in the US have authorized two service providers for Cable. In such cities, rates average 17% lower, and customer satisfaction is 3X other cities. The main reason this is not done today is that companies like Comcast pay cities a big kick-back for giving them monopoly power. Cities really need to money, so they do it. Because of the very poor service provided by Comcast to Saratoga, I will press the city council to consider changing their sourcing strategy. The facts as I see them today are:
- Saratoga has internet speeds that are 1/2 that provided by any other city in the nation (all cities in the nation are upgraded to 3Mb service except Saratoga and parts of Sunnyvale). Yet Saratoga residents pay the same amount as cities with double the bandwidth.
- Saratoga will, as of the launch of DiscHD, have about 1/2 the number of HD channels available as most other cities served by Comcast. Yet Saratoga residents pay the same or more than other cities.
- There are no definitive plans by Comcast to address these issues.

Anyone who wants to join with me to work with the City of Saratoga is welcome. Also, anyone from the cities of Los Gatos, Milpitas and Monte Sereno who want to join forces and present similar proposals to their city councils is also welcome.

Not sure what will come of this, but it is worth a try!

I wrote a e-mail to cox regarding KTVU/FOX HD on comcast and his response was not good. They are still negotiating, and he asked me to call comcast and let them know how valuable FOX programming is to me. Looks like it is going nowhere and we won't be able see NFL on FOX this season in HD.
:mad:

Originally posted by lpaxmember
I wrote a e-mail to cox regarding KTVU/FOX HD on comcast and his response was not good. They are still negotiating, and he asked me to call comcast and let them know how valuable FOX programming is to me. Looks like it is going nowhere and we won't be able see NFL on FOX this season in HD.
:mad: The problem is KTVU's owner, Cox Enterprises (specifically its subsidiary Cox Broadcasting or Cox Television), based in Atlanta, GA, is seeking some sort of compensation from Comcast and Comcast is balking at it. Comcast does not provide compensation for digital signals beyond what it is already providing for analog.

However, when a station owner has huge leverage (as did Viacom with all its cable channels), Comcast will work out a mega deal which includes the digital HD signals of that owner's stations. Cox does not appear to have that kind of leverage, especially because Cox claims that it keeps it cable business (Cox Communications) completely separate from its other divisions and businesses, including its TV station group. So Cox has precluded any kind of "mega deal" by adopting this approach of keeping all its businesses "separate."

The head of Cox Television is a former TV journalist, so I think his perspective is skewed and he does not understand the cable business well enough to be able to work out a deal with Comcast.

If you want Fox HD in the fall, you have a couple of months to find some good deals on OTA equipment. And if your like me, a hill blocks Sutro's signals, but I get Sacramento digital signals fine, including the Fox affiliate. So bye bye KTVU.

Originally posted by flar
I got a new 5100 when I upgraded. I think they are preferring it now because it has a PPOE client built-in so they don't have to deal with customers installing and configuring software on their computers (with N different OS configs).

I called and tried to get a lower rate when they dropped it to $40, but they said that I had to subscribe to a group of services to get that rate and I only had basic phone service on that line (it exists as a DSL carrier and fax line). I haven't tried since they dropped it again to $37 and I don't see anything now that indicates that you need to get it as part of a package so maybe it's time to try again. If they give you a lower rate, btw, you have to agree to another year's commitment (so far, that hasn't been much of a concern for me).

flar, thanks for the info on the speedstream 5100 and the original heads up on the SBC Pro 3mb service. Thanks to your info, my friend ordered 3mb in Sunnyvale and they sent him a replacement modem (the 5100) for free since he was renewing the contract for one year (he'd already fulfilled 12 months service which moved to month to month at 49.95 at the end of the contract). The built in PPOE support of the 5100 model looks like a plus.

The pricing for 3mb "Pro" tier is apparently $39.95 on a 12 month contract (or 59.95 month to month), but if you have 1) voice solutions package 2) SBC local toll and 3) SBC long distance, then the rate drops to $36.95. Apparently it works the same way for the 384k-1.5mb tier called "Express", 29.95 or $26.95 if you have all 3. Also, SBC said if they ever offer a new lower price that you can move to the lower price as long as you renew for another 12 month contract. So, flar, you should be able to get the 39.95 rate.

My friend's service is due to be upgraded to 3mb soon. They wouldn't say the distance from the Central Office, only that his location was in range for the Pro service. I'm interested to see what speed he actually gets on download and upload. Apparently the upstream speed gets bumbed up to 384k from 128 when you upgrade to Pro from Express. flar, you mentioned you were seeing 500k. It sounded like SBC capped it at 384k from talking to them, but apparently not from your speed report.

I'm still wondering however if anyone has been successful with getting a Comcast internet discount off the $42.95 as was mentioned in this thread:

Originally posted by MikeSM
if you threaten to leave comcast internet by calling to cancel, they'll beat the DSL price for the next 12 months to keep you

Originally posted by bpearse
Residents of Saratoga, Los Gatos, Milpitas and Monte Sereno...

- Saratoga has internet speeds that are 1/2 that provided by any other city in the nation (all cities in the nation are upgraded to 3Mb service except Saratoga and parts of Sunnyvale). Yet Saratoga residents pay the same amount as cities with double the bandwidth.


if the 3mb upgrade happens in July then that will be a big plus. If comcast was to match dsl pricing of $26.95 in the interim then that would also be satisfactory, since dsl is their main competition.

But of course adding more competition is a good thing for consumers, but how would it be implemented without running more coax? how could my neighbor have comcast and me have cable company #2 if our street has one feed coming in? Would it mean trenching streets? I think something like a local digital tv OTA broadcast option with premium networks as a competitor might make more sense since OTA from Sutro can be difficult, but if there was a competiting provider with a new tower with line of sight from the south bay with espn, hbo, etc... (maybe someday). Basically, I can see a lot of people objecting to digging up streets when there are wireless technologies emerging.

Originally posted by eriv16
a small clarification to sonoma and davisdog statements, the fact that you can not tune to a channel does not mean that the channel is not available in the system, it just means that it's not part of the virtual channel map (VCM) assigned to your box. Maybe, the services are available, but not added yet to your line up . comcast model is that ind 1 and 2 are part of digital classic package.

I'm curious about the VCM for Saratoga/Milpitas/Los Gatos. Does anyone know what this map looks like? In other words, what frequencies are used for the various digital channels and CHSI? I'm merging the output from a DirectTV receiver onto the cable system and don't want to stomp over any frequencies in use by the cable system. I'm currently using channel 88 but don't know if that is actually an unused frequency or not and am looking for some guidance. I described this more fully in post #920 in this thread:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=3938239#post3938239

Originally posted by tivoyahoo
I'm curious about the VCM for Saratoga/Milpitas/Los Gatos. Does anyone know what this map looks like? In other words, what frequencies are used for the various digital channels and CHSI? I'm merging the output from a DirectTV receiver onto the cable system and don't want to stomp over any frequencies in use by the cable system. I'm currently using channel 88 but don't know if that is actually an unused frequency or not and am looking for some guidance. I described this more fully in post #920 in this thread:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=3938239#post3938239

Looks like 88 is ~607Mhz, which isnt a conflict now, but will be after the upgrade...You need to get to the mid 100's to avoid a conflict.

Here's a listing (look at the CATV channels)

http://www.csgnetwork.com/tvfreqtable.html

It is possible to see the frequency that comcast is using for each channel via the diagnostic menu you can get into , but you must do it one channel at a time and digital channels are mapped to all over the place in no particular order.

-steve

Originally posted by tivoyahoo
how would it be implemented without running more coax? how could my neighbor have comcast and me have cable company #2 if our street has one feed coming in? Would it mean trenching streets?

Quite honestly, I do not know. I do know that there are numerous cities with multiple providers, and that data shows they pay less and get better service. I am just starting this research, so am really not sure how it is implemented. May not be feasible, but I am sure going to try. Competition is a wonderful thing when it happens. Only alternative to 2 cable town is to shorten the length of the cable agreement, and turn it over to another provider when the first one slacks off, as Comcast is doing in Saratoga.

bpearse, when I mentioned "a local digital tv OTA broadcast option with premium networks", I was thinking of a wireless alternative such as this type of model without satellites:

http://www.usdtv.com/
http://www.moviebeam.com/

It would be interesting if a provider like USDTV partnered with the transmitter facilities of KICU at Monument Peak or KNTV at Loma Prieta, since the south bay has strong reception from those facilities even in the hills of Saratoga and Los Gatos.

For transmitter locations, see:
http://www.choisser.com/xmtrs.html

Originally posted by davisdog
Looks like 88 is ~607Mhz, which isnt a conflict now, but will be after the upgrade...You need to get to the mid 100's to avoid a conflict.

Here's a listing (look at the CATV channels)

http://www.csgnetwork.com/tvfreqtable.html

It is possible to see the frequency that comcast is using for each channel via the diagnostic menu you can get into , but you must do it one channel at a time and digital channels are mapped to all over the place in no particular order.

-steve

davisdog, thanks for the excellent link.

It looks like all the digital channels and CHSI are currently squeezed into a very narrow spectrum if the system cuts off at 550 mhz which is channel 78. That leaves only channels 72-73 and 75-78 (511 to 550 mhz minus the 523-528 segment for analog 74) as available to compress the digital channels and CHSI into.

Does Comcast have to compress the digital channels more for Sar/LG/Milpitas than for other neighborhoods that are already at 750mhz? In other words, are they able to use more frequency and deliver better picture quality elsewhere? Would better picture quality on the existing digital channels be an expected result of the 750 upgrade? Or is the bitstream the same regardless, and it just opens more capacity?

If the upgrade is to 750mhz, then it looks like that cuts off at channel 117. My rf modulator is selectable up to channel 125, which is what I believe a typical tv can tune up to. So if I have 3 sources, looks like I could rf modulate to use 119, 122, and 125 nicely after the upgrade. Have I got this right?

Do newer televisions have tuners that go all the way up to channel 158, the highest channel on the chart? I can't remember seeing higher than 125 in a channel scan, although I've never really payed close attention.

Is there a way to tell what frequency a cable modem is syncing on for the internet service?

Originally posted by bpearse
Quite honestly, I do not know. I do know that there are numerous cities with multiple providers, and that data shows they pay less and get better service. I am just starting this research, so am really not sure how it is implemented. May not be feasible, but I am sure going to try. Competition is a wonderful thing when it happens. Only alternative to 2 cable town is to shorten the length of the cable agreement, and turn it over to another provider when the first one slacks off, as Comcast is doing in Saratoga.

Well it look like the argument of not being able to run 3Mb HSI is Saramilgatos is about to go away. Got a message on my 6200 this morning that they are upgrading today to 3Mb HSI...although it looks like I'm still 1.8Mbs as of right now (based on dslreports speedtest showing 1.7Mb throughput on the d/l...for the life of me I can't remember how (via html) to get into the diags for the cable modem to check what setting it has...anybody remember?

Then again..maybe its just a teaser message

-Steve

Originally posted by davisdog
Well it look like the argument of not being able to run 3Mb HSI is Saramilgatos is about to go away. Got a message on my 6200 this morning that they are upgrading today to 3Mb HSI...although it looks like I'm still 1.8Mbs as of right now (based on dslreports speedtest showing 1.7Mb throughput on the d/l...for the life of me I can't remember how (via html) to get into the diags for the cable modem to check what setting it has...anybody remember?

Then again..maybe its just a teaser message

-Steve

Did you unplug the RF and power from your cable modem and plug it back in? I had to do this when my area was upgraded in order to get the 3Mb speeds.

Originally posted by tivoyahoo
davisdog, thanks for the excellent link.

It looks like all the digital channels and CHSI are currently squeezed into a very narrow spectrum if the system cuts off at 550 mhz which is channel 78. That leaves only channels 72-73 and 75-78 (511 to 550 mhz minus the 523-528 segment for analog 74) as available to compress the digital channels and CHSI into.

Does Comcast have to compress the digital channels more for Sar/LG/Milpitas than for other neighborhoods that are already at 750mhz? In other words, are they able to use more frequency and deliver better picture quality elsewhere? Would better picture quality on the existing digital channels be an expected result of the 750 upgrade? Or is the bitstream the same regardless, and it just opens more capacity?

If the upgrade is to 750mhz, then it looks like that cuts off at channel 117. My rf modulator is selectable up to channel 125, which is what I believe a typical tv can tune up to. So if I have 3 sources, looks like I could rf modulate to use 119, 122, and 125 nicely after the upgrade. Have I got this right?

Do newer televisions have tuners that go all the way up to channel 158, the highest channel on the chart? I can't remember seeing higher than 125 in a channel scan, although I've never really payed close attention.

Is there a way to tell what frequency a cable modem is syncing on for the internet service?

tivoyahoo,
I don't believe they compress our digitals anymore than the other systems...Generally they can fit 10 Digital (non-HD) channels in the space it takes for one analog...roughly 2 HD's can fit in one.

If you look around that chart, there is also some space around the midband range that for analog 95-99 (90-120Mhz) which we arent using and provides a bunch of space ...KQED-HD is stuck in here for instance (117Mhz). Also I noticed CBS-HD is at 225Mhz which is analog 24 (which we dont have)...NBC-HD is at 279Mhz (you'll see ch 33 was pulled off our system). This just have to be creative (1-55Mhz is open also for uploads etc...)

I can't remember how to log into my cable modem to see what it's locked on...I think its up near 550Mhz if I remember right.

-Steve

Originally posted by fender4645
Did you unplug the RF and power from your cable modem and plug it back in? I had to do this when my area was upgraded in order to get the 3Mb speeds.

Yup...unplugged it, kicked it, dropped it...still testing ~1.8Mb

KGO Dropouts?

Is anyone else still having dropouts on KGO, KPIX and KQED. I'm tired of having the box reset and I'm not going to lose pay waiting for a guy to come in and say "Oh yeah thats a headend/infrastructure issue." I'm in Santa Clara. Anyone seeing problems else where?

PS
No errors reported by the box for the channel right after the dropout.

I too got numerous droputs last night. I was trying to watch the SD subchannel for KQED, and the screen would just go blank every 5 minutes or so for about 5 seconds. Very annoying. I have had this problem off and on for a week.

Originally posted by fitzwest
KGO Dropouts?

Is anyone else still having dropouts on KGO, KPIX and KQED. I'm tired of having the box reset and I'm not going to lose pay waiting for a guy to come in and say "Oh yeah thats a headend/infrastructure issue." I'm in Santa Clara. Anyone seeing problems else where?

PS
No errors reported by the box for the channel right after the dropout.

I believe those 3 happen to be the ones they get direct feeds off of a fiber line at Sutro Tower (they get NBC-HD separately since it doesnt come off Sutro)...sounds like a common problem so yes, not something to waste your time with a tech coming out to your house...I've also seen it lately. Interesting to see if others also it outside of the southbay/santaclara headend (that would tell if its the feed to sutro (that goes to all of comcast/Bay Area or just the feed of those lines down to the southbay headend).

Any issues that originate from Sutro Tower are followed pretty closely here:

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/HDTV-in-SFbay/messages

It looks like you or someone else in Santa Clara reported similar problem:

http://groups.yahoo.com/group/HDTV-in-SFbay/message/12101

Originally posted by davisdog
I believe those 3 happen to be the ones they get direct feeds off of a fiber line at Sutro Tower (they get NBC-HD separately since it doesnt come off Sutro)...sounds like a common problem so yes, not something to waste your time with a tech coming out to your house...I've also seen it lately. Interesting to see if others also it outside of the southbay/santaclara headend (that would tell if its the feed to sutro (that goes to all of comcast/Bay Area or just the feed of those lines down to the southbay headend).

I'm seeing the same dropout behavior on 186 and 184 in Los Altos Hills (haven't watched the other Sutro HD channels enough to notice on them). The dropouts on 186 were very consistent in their time; about 15 seconds. The ones on 184 last night were a bit longer; 20 seconds. The interval between them got shorter as the evening went on :mad:

Hope they get it corrected; it's becoming more than a little annoying.

Alan

Originally posted by davisdog
Well it look like the argument of not being able to run 3Mb HSI is Saramilgatos is about to go away. Got a message on my 6200 this morning that they are upgrading today to 3Mb HSI...

I guess bpearse's proposal to take the issue to the city council woke up some people up at Comcast. I'll try to test my speed tonight. davisdog, keep us posted on your speedtest results. davisdog, do you have the rca cable modem? would the log in be described in the manual? I think I can find my manual.