because more people watch REGULAR SEASON baseball than PLAYOFF hockey in the bay area.
I suspect that is true, but my point was that the guide said Hockey at 7:30PM yesterday. Why tease us like that? Is this a FOX screw-up or a COMCAST screw-up?

I suspect that is true, but my point was that the guide said Hockey at 7:30PM yesterday. Why tease us like that? Is this a FOX screw-up or a COMCAST screw-up?
John,
Even though Comcast is not on my Christmas list this year, they are not at fault here. FSN broadcasts and produces the programs not Comcast. Comcast merely shows what is provided to them so you need to tell FSN Bay Area that you are displeased at their programing choices ;)

Laters,
Mikef5

http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR/Programming_the_Remote#Add_30-Second_Skip

1. Press the "Cable" button at the top of the remote to put it into Cable Box control mode.
2. Press and hold the "Setup" button until the "Cable" button blinks twice.
3. Type in the code 994. The "Cable" button will blink twice.
4. Press (do not hold) the "Setup" button.
5. Type in the code 00173.
6. Press whatever button you want to map the 30-second skip command to (ex: A / Lock). The "Cable" button will blink twice if successful.
Nice, thanks. I also remapped the MUTE button since I got hit with the mute bug already...

We recently subscribed to Comcast digital, including HD for the broadcast stations and a few others, like ESPN and INHD, or whatever it's called, plus HBO. When we checked these channels out after having the service installed, we found that, although we had a good picture on the screen, it was obviously not including as MANY pictures as it should...i.e., if there was motion...even when someone in a closeup was just turning his/her head, but of course also in sports, the motion wasn't continuous...it jumped as the head turned from one angle to the next, or a player moved across the screen. At first, I thought this was due to the low-quality component cables we initially used (because the cable guy showed up without any cables) because, after I later substituted an HDMI connection, the motion was continuous - as it should be and as it usually is OTA (for the broadcast stations).

However, I just noticed yesterday, as I was looking to see what was on, that the same thing was happening again...I have never noticed this jumpy motion OTA, and people on other forums have mentioned that Comcast doesn't supply the full HD data stream...is that what I'm sometimes seeing here? Ugh!

We recently subscribed to Comcast digital, including HD for the broadcast stations and a few others, like ESPN and INHD, or whatever it's called, plus HBO. When we checked these channels out after having the service installed, we found that, although we had a good picture on the screen, it was obviously not including as MANY pictures as it should...i.e., if there was motion...even when someone in a closeup was just turning his/her head, but of course also in sports, the motion wasn't continuous...it jumped as the head turned from one angle to the next, or a player moved across the screen. At first, I thought this was due to the low-quality component cables we initially used (because the cable guy showed up without any cables) because, after I later substituted an HDMI connection, the motion was continuous - as it should be and as it usually is OTA (for the broadcast stations).

However, I just noticed yesterday, as I was looking to see what was on, that the same thing was happening again...I have never noticed this jumpy motion OTA, and people on other forums have mentioned that Comcast doesn't supply the full HD data stream...is that what I'm sometimes seeing here? Ugh!

Check your SNR and AGC in the Diagnostics menu and make sure you're getting a good signal. This could be due to a bad incoming connection and/or low bandwidth.

I have never noticed this jumpy motion OTA, and people on other forums have mentioned that Comcast doesn't supply the full HD data stream...is that what I'm sometimes seeing here? Ugh!Whenever I've checked, the data stream for the OTA channels carried by Comcast has been identical to that received directly OTA. I suspect that you have a cable signal level problem or a bum STB.

Whenever I get that symptom, I unplug the STB and then repower it and it fixes it.

Experiencing a really odd issue w/respect to CATV display (Comcast service) at a client's place ... wondering if anyone has experienced a similar issue?

The client's been complaining of fluctuating brightness on cable channels over the past few weeks - the picture will apparently vary significantly in brightness, going from normal to very dark, even within the same channel/content ... problem has occurred directly in front of him as he's watching, even.

The setup is as follows: CATV feed coming into the house and split at a passive Open House 1>4 splitter; 1x feed to the cable modem, 1x feed unused, and 2x to cable boxes (one HD Motorola 6412 STB and the other a Motorala SD box). Picture from both boxes is exhibiting this issue, and the problem is occurreing on all four TVs in the house (picture is distributed to two TVs via composite video on a Russound CAV, and the other two via component on a video-storms 1in/3out dist box).

The problem appears to have just recently started - CATV picture has been working fine for months. Now, we did add a Jensen VRD-1FF (http://www.jensen-transformers.com/iso_vid.html) CATV RF isolator a couple of months ago, inline between the main cable feed and the 1>4 splitter's input. The VRD was installed to resolve a bad speaker buzz issue (even though the house cable feed was properly grounded at the electrical panel); the brightness problem, however, just manifested about 3 weeks ago.

One other relevant piece of info - about 3 weeks ago (just b4 the brightness problem started) the client was complaining of a terrible picture (fuzzy picture, massive ghosting) on channels 2-20ish, but *only* on these channels. I thought it very odd/unlikely, but verified it myself while onsite - HD channels and SD 50&up were clear, but 2-20+ were varying degrees of crap.

Remarkably, replacing the 6' length (coiled) of RG6 between the Jensen VRD and the splitter with a 9" lenght of newly compression terminated RG6 solved the "crap picture" problem ... once again all channels displayed fine. But it was shortly _before_ we resolved this particular problem that the "dark picture" issue started occurring, and indeed it's still happening afterwards.

I'm at a loss ... any thoughts/suggestions??

I'm at a loss ... any thoughts/suggestions??
Yeah, simplify your setup, run a cable straight from Comcast cable drop (bypassing everything in between) directly to your cable box (with cable box connected directly to TV by component or svideo cables) and see if the problem exists. If so, it is likely Comcast problem. If not, introduce the components one by one until you figure out which is causing the problem. Standard debugging stuff. Digital signals don't behave in the manner you describe so it is either the analog stuff coming in or your analog distribution of the processed signal.

Ok folks, look at this part of my bill, tell me if this is right.....

Taxes & Fee(s)
04/26 Franchise Fee 4.84
04/26 FCC Regulatory Fee .06
04/26 Access Fee 2.00
04/26 State and Local Sales Tax .28
04/26 State and Local Sales Tax .23
Subtotal 7.41

$7.41 in taxes and "fees"?? :confused:

$4.84 for franchise fee? Last month it was $2... what the hell?

"Access fee" $2? What is that? Yeah you sort of assume you'll have "access" to something if you order it..... don't you?

Why is "State and Local Sales Tax" listed twice??

:mad:

http://www.trond.com/brazil/images/brazil32.jpg

"Access fee" $2? What is that? Yeah you sort of assume you'll have "access" to something if you order it..... don't you?

It's for the "access" to be able to watch the commercials and informacials, not the programming itself. The programming fee is seperate, and access for it is provided free of charge once you pay for the programming.






















:D
Sorry, not rubbing it in to you. I've to check my bill for this month, and maybe this applies to me as well. It is my attempt to find humor in an infuriating situation.

Mine looked like this and I'm in Rohnert Park:

Taxes & Fee(s)
04/04 Franchise Fee 7.85
04/04 FCC Regulatory Fee .06
04/04 State and Local Sales Tax .23
Subtotal 8.14

Your subtotal is smaller but mine has no redundancy. I'd give them a call to have it explained.

Anyone notice horrible PQ and pixellation on FSN BA in HD on 720? I'm in San Carlos. . . .

Yes, and it keeps flipping back to SD. The HD feed must be getting interrupted.

It totally pisses me off; why is this so difficult for Comcast?

its not comcast, FOXBA provides the feed, comcast just passes it on... comcast doesn't have the so-called SD/HD "switch"

Well, I have to admit I am skeptical about Comcast; I'm online with them now. I'll report back.

Comcast tells me that they need to hear from people.

Otherwise, they won't do squat and want me to check whether all my cables are plugged in.

Otherwise, they won't do squat and want me to check whether all my cables are plugged in.
Trust me they can't do squat, they have no control of the signal coming from FSN Bay Area.... darn just missed Alou hitting a home run... :D
back to the game !!!

Laters,
Mikef5

I saw it but in reallllllly bad SD quality. 10-2, baby.

I saw it but in reallllllly bad SD quality. 10-2, baby.
That's hard to believe, I'm in the slums of SaraMilgatos and it's still in HD :) . It has switched to SD a couple of times but I would almost guess that someone thinks the game is over and is switching back to the regular SD signal from FSN. They really need to pay an actual person to watch the broadcast and make the switches instead of bots doing it.
Back to the game...

Laters,
Mikef5

Win. Who is that kid, Frandson?

Question for you folks:

Has anyone out there "tested" the "grandfather clause" related to old HDTV subscriptions keeping the extra channels (ESPN-HD, IND, IND2, DiscoveryHD) when they moved to a different house.

i'm going to be moving soon, and was hoping to hear some experiences before approaching Comcast and their CS regarding this scenario/situation.

thanks in advance for any tips/comments/experiences.

Comcast tells me that they need to hear from people.


Wonder if it would help at all to complain about not getting FSNBA HD in more of the 550mhz cities(think only one of them gets it?).

Find it VERY hard to believe they cant get it to everyone when whatever games are on.

Hard to believe somthing cant be juggled if they wanted to bother to make the effort.

Hell here in antioch normal analog KQED-9 started repeating itself on chan 96 recently which I believe is still just a analog chan. I am understanding things wrong that even that right there is enough bandwith for TWO hd chans?

I think it might a Comcast issue because INHD (both stations) is still problematic this morning.

I see no problems with InHD now and saw no problems with the Giants game on 720 last night but I did not watch 100% of the game.

It's brutal in San Carlos.

Wonder if it would help at all to complain about not getting FSNBA HD in more of the 550mhz cities(think only one of them gets it?).

Find it VERY hard to believe they cant get it to everyone when whatever games are on.

Hard to believe somthing cant be juggled if they wanted to bother to make the effort.

Hell here in antioch normal analog KQED-9 started repeating itself on chan 96 recently which I believe is still just a analog chan. I am understanding things wrong that even that right there is enough bandwith for TWO hd chans?
Jgiants,
The KQED 9 and channel 96 are the same exact channel. They are not broadcasting two separate signals, it's just your box can get the signal on either channel number but it's only one signal coming to you. I know it sounds weird but it is not taking up any additional bandwidth it's just the box being able to pickup that signal on both channels.

As far as getting INHD on your system, you need to hammer your local franchise board and get them off their butts and get your cable system upgraded. I've been trying this for along time and it has helped some what but it's a constant job to keep them on track. My franchise board seems more concerned about their local access channel and the studio that Comcast is helping them build not on getting this low bandwidth but high cost system upgraded to the level that we need and are paying for. The best way to do that is get a hold of your franchise board and let them know you are not happy with Comcast and what the board is not doing for you and keep the pressure on until you are satisfied with the results.

Laters,
Mikef5

The KQED 9 and channel 96 are the same exact channel. They are not broadcasting two separate signals, it's just your box can get the signal on either channel number but it's only one signal coming to you. I know it sounds weird but it is not taking up any additional bandwidth it's just the box being able to pickup that signal on both channels.


I don't think that is correct. 9 is an analogue channel, but I believe 96 is the digital simulcast of the analogue channel. I can receive it on an EyeTV500 tuner, which is a digital-only tuner. Comcast is broadcasting digital versions of all the analogue channels in my area, in addition to the usual analogue versions, so they do take up additional bandwidth.

I don't think that is correct. 9 is an analogue channel, but I believe 96 is the digital simulcast of the analogue channel. I can receive it on an EyeTV500 tuner, which is a digital-only tuner. Comcast is broadcasting digital versions of all the analogue channels in my area, in addition to the usual analogue versions, so they do take up additional bandwidth.
I just verified it on my set and channel 96 is analog. I'm in the SaraMilgatos area and there is no digital simulcasting going on here and it probably won't happen here in the near future, if at all. It might be digital in your area but not here in the 550 MHz areas.

Laters,
Mikef5

It's for the "access" to be able to watch the commercials and informacials, not the programming itself. The programming fee is seperate, and access for it is provided free of charge once you pay for the programming.OH of course, how silly of me. It all makes sense now... :D

They also charged me a $1.99 "self installation" fee for driving down to their office, waiting in line, then arguing with the lady for 20 minutes about why they wouldn't take my cable modem (I bought my own modem and wanted to stop paying the $3 rental fee but no dice..).

Re the Giants game last night, it was switching back and forth between HD and SD all night. Hey it beats dropping out totally, or not having any sound, like last week...

Once again, 719 and 720 are brutal in San Carlos. So much for the Giants in HD.

I don't think that is correct. 9 is an analogue channel, but I believe 96 is the digital simulcast of the analogue channel. I can receive it on an EyeTV500 tuner, which is a digital-only tuner.
You may be thinking of another channel or in a different area. 96 is currently unused in your listed area. However it is true that 78 is the lowest digital and 82 is the highest analog in your area, so everything 83 and above is either digital or unused (for your area)

Once again, 719 and 720 are brutal in San Carlos. So much for the Giants in HD.
Looks fine in South Bay.

Looks fine in South Bay.

shinbone, ur inhd is messed up... the giants game looks awesome here.

Hmmm, maybe it's just me.

You may be thinking of another channel or in a different area. 96 is currently unused in your listed area. However it is true that 78 is the lowest digital and 82 is the highest analog in your area, so everything 83 and above is either digital or unused (for your area)

Oh yes, you are right. There is nothing on 96; but there are digital simulcasts on 97.XX, which is what I must have been thinking of.

KQED 9 simulcast seems to be on 114.5.

Does anyone know how we can find out which Sharks game are actually broadcast on 720? Tuesday night it said Sharks on the guide, but they showed the Giant's game. Thursday they showed the game, but the guide said something else. Any idea if Sunday's game will be on 720? The guide says no, but that's worthless.

I had a bunch of frieds over on Tuesday to show them how good Hockey looks in HD. That went over realy well...

any hope that KTVU HD will be restored by today?? probably not huh... another week of SD 24...... argh

Question for you folks:

Has anyone out there "tested" the "grandfather clause" related to old HDTV subscriptions keeping the extra channels (ESPN-HD, IND, IND2, DiscoveryHD) when they moved to a different house.

i'm going to be moving soon, and was hoping to hear some experiences before approaching Comcast and their CS regarding this scenario/situation.

thanks in advance for any tips/comments/experiences.

I recently moved within San Francisco and have been a Silver Package subscriber since the AT&T days (HBO and Starz). After the move, for the first few days, everything was the same. Then, suddenly, I lost Starz. I called the CSR and told them my situation. She, the CSR, did not understand and spoke to a manager who explained the "grandfather clause" and all channels were restored within an hour. Hope this helps.

CSRs don't know **** man. I downgraded from Silver to "Classic" and the lady said the only thing I would miss is "Encore". BS. I'm also missing Sundance, Toon Disney, and a couple others.. and that's just the ones I had Favorited, god knows how many more I lost.

She also didn't include the DVR box that I ordered or some other things... :p :mad:

any hope that KTVU HD will be restored by today?? probably not huh... another week of SD 24...... argh

In response to an OTA SD question, today's email from KTVU Engineering : "24 and Idol should be good this week and we should be back to normal next week"

No explanation but at least an update

YAY its working for PRISON BREAK!!

Here's a link to a story on page 1 of Tuesday's (5/2) San Francisco Chronicle about the plans of KQED and KTEH to merge to cut costs and expand programming:

http://sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/c/a/2006/05/02/PUBLICTV.TMP

Larry
SF

I recently moved within San Francisco and have been a Silver Package subscriber since the AT&T days (HBO and Starz). After the move, for the first few days, everything was the same. Then, suddenly, I lost Starz. I called the CSR and told them my situation. She, the CSR, did not understand and spoke to a manager who explained the "grandfather clause" and all channels were restored within an hour. Hope this helps.

Thanks. that does help. hopefully, it will go without a hitch when the move occurs. i'll post a follow-up regardless of what happens, but it's nice to know there is "some chance" this will actually work.

Some observations...

KTVU HD was back last night
KQED HD had overscan problems last night (on top of screen)
KTVU and KPIX have not been mapped back to 2.1 and 5.1
KGO, KQED are mapped to 7.1 and 9.1

6412 has been ULTRA FLAKY (caching IR inputs for 1-2 minutes, then getting caught in do loops). About 1 unplug per day.

I am in San Carlos area. Just wondering if others experiencing some of these, or they are unique to me

Anyone have any insight when we'll be seeing more HD channels? TNT HD would be sweet, FSN HD (not just INHD2), espn2, etc etc.

Why is it the satellite companies have more? I thought they would be the ones bandwidth limited.

Anyone have any insight when we'll be seeing more HD channels? TNT HD would be sweet, FSN HD (not just INHD2), espn2, etc etc.

Why is it the satellite companies have more? I thought they would be the ones bandwidth limited.

I emailed Comcast a few days ago asking about this. Here is their response:

---
Thank you for contacting us regarding your Comcast cable service.

Comcast is committed to deploying HDTV service. We are working to
provide as many high definition channel broadcasters as possible. Here are
some of the factors involved with expanding our high definition lineup:

-the negotiation and contract process required to obtain the rights to
carry a specific high definition broadcast, such as TNT-HD and HD-Net.

-the increased bandwidth resources which are required

-the relatively low number of subscribers (currently only a small
minority of customers have high definition compatible television sets)

We will continue to explore additional HD programming opportunities as
more content providers make plans to offer their programming in HD
format.

We appreciate the fact that you took the time to let us know what is
important to you. We hope to expand our high definition channel lineup
as fast as we can. Unfortunately we are unable to provide specific
details regarding the launch of new channels at this time, please keep an
eye on your monthly billing statement as the announcement of any channel
additions will appear on those statements.
---

Sadly, this is more like an excuse than an answer.

-=Brazil=-

lol!! that's the same email they give everyone. just don't believe anything csrs say... there is more than enough accurate information on this forum from the mikef5s...

sadly there are no new HD channels on the horizon... i don't know why you'd want a fulltime FSN-HD channel when the only HD programming they have is when its on inHD2 (ie you won't see anything else on there until FSNBA itself increases HD programming).

espn2HD is a nationwide comcast issue, and is contingent on the on-going disney/comcast negotiations.

lol!! that's the same email they give everyone. just don't believe anything csrs say... there is more than enough accurate information on this forum from the mikef5s...

sadly there are no new HD channels on the horizon... i don't know why you'd want a fulltime FSN-HD channel when the only HD programming they have is when its on inHD2 (ie you won't see anything else on there until FSNBA itself increases HD programming).

espn2HD is a nationwide comcast issue, and is contingent on the on-going disney/comcast negotiations.

The TNT thing is interesting, because there are a bunch of Comcast markets where TNT-HD is available.

I'm rather curious about how all those Dish HD stations are. They have so many! And so many of them are obscure, Like MONSTERS HD, GALLERY HD, etc.

The TNT thing is interesting, because there are a bunch of Comcast markets where TNT-HD is available.

I'm rather curious about how all those Dish HD stations are. They have so many! And so many of them are obscure, Like MONSTERS HD, GALLERY HD, etc.

they could add TNT-HD in the bay area if they wanted to piss off 550ers who don't have the bandwidth to support it. there is already a glaring disparity in service offerings among the bay area cities, why widen it further? (btw yes they do charge the same rates for all bay area systems).

-the negotiation and contract process required to obtain the rights to
carry a specific high definition broadcast, such as TNT-HD and HD-Net.


Did you ask specifically about HD-Net? Funny how they lump TNT-HD, which is already carried on Comcast systems with a channel that is unlikely to ever be on Comcast.

Actually, there IS A NEW CHANNEL on the 550 MHz systems. Check out channel 410, also known as FSN plus. I just couldn't live without the Jewelry Tv station :mad:

So my bitch is, they can put this drivel on but they can't give us Video On Demand or a channel that has some decent content on it and yeah I know that those shopping channels pay big bucks to get shown but I'm getting tired of paying big bucks to waste my time and money on. Not a happy camper......

Laters,
Mikef5

Did you ask specifically about HD-Net? Funny how they lump TNT-HD, which is already carried on Comcast systems with a channel that is unlikely to ever be on Comcast.

i also got the same canned email that grouped TNT and HDnet together... about 6 months ago. They must be getting the same questions over and over again.

Actually, there IS A NEW CHANNEL on the 550 MHz systems. Check out channel 410, also known as FSN plus. I just couldn't live without the Jewelry Tv station :mad:

So my bitch is, they can put this drivel on but they can't give us Video On Demand or a channel that has some decent content on it and yeah I know that those shopping channels pay big bucks to get shown but I'm getting tired of paying big bucks to waste my time and money on. Not a happy camper......

Laters,
Mikef5
Yeah, we have 410 is Santa Rosa as well, it's nothing but a banner that says "One Moment Please", quite the stimulating and provocative content, a do-not-miss channel. :p

i also got the same canned email that grouped TNT and HDnet together... about 6 months ago. They must be getting the same questions over and over again.
Yup, I got Dish last year, I was going to wait for Comcast but I'm glad I didn't, I have had more HD BB playoff games than I can actually watch with TNT-HD and NBATV-HD to go along with ABC and ESPN's coverage.

You folks with INHD, are you getting the NBATV games?

Yup, I got Dish last year, I was going to wait for Comcast but I'm glad I didn't, I have had more HD BB playoff games than I can actually watch with TNT-HD and NBATV-HD to go along with ABC and ESPN's coverage.

You folks with INHD, are you getting the NBATV games?
Well, from what I've learned in the past few weeks I may soon be joining you on Dish Network. The only thing that is keeping me here now is FSN-HD and if things don't get better by the end of baseball season, I'll be dropping cable all together. Dish is going to be showing local HD channels sometime next week in the S.F. area so the only thing that cable has is the regional HD sports and that's just not enough for what I pay for and what I get now to keep me here. I've had cable over 15 years but the way our area is treated it seems it's time to move on. For what I can get on Dish it just doesn't make sense for me to stay with cable. Don't get me wrong, if you are in an upgraded area cable is the way to go and I believe cable is headed in the right direction for you, just not in the 550 MHz areas. I don't see anything changing in our area in the near future, probably not until next year sometime, to long for me. So I'll enjoy the Giants in HD this year and see what happens after that, but I'm pessimistic to say the least.

Laters,
Mikef5

You folks with INHD, are you getting the NBATV games?

yes. but its always series i don't care much about, ie the eastern type.

tnt-hd would be so nice to have for just this one month.

You folks with INHD, are you getting the NBATV games?

Yes.....

I don't see anything changing in our area in the near future, probably not until next year sometime, to long for me.
Laters,
Mikef5
I don't either, and frankly, I don't care anymore, Comcast by it's actions, or non-action as it were, is going to do what it wants when it wants to do it. I'm just waiting for Dish to light up those locals and then I'll be dumping Comcast. The only thing I'll miss is KQED-HD, but for $75 a month it ain't worth it. When Comcast gets it's s**t together then they can beg me to come back with a low cost new customer deal.

I don't either, and frankly, I don't care anymore, Comcast by it's actions, or non-action as it were, is going to do what it wants when it wants to do it. I'm just waiting for Dish to light up those locals and then I'll be dumping Comcast. The only thing I'll miss is KQED-HD, but for $75 a month it ain't worth it. When Comcast gets it's s**t together then they can beg me to come back with a low cost new customer deal.
From some of the info that I've seen about the HD locals for Dish, they may include KQED-HD so you may not be losing anything. The info that I got it's the national locals in HD and 2 others which weren't identified so it wouldn't suprized me if it does include KQED-HD.
Back to the Giants game in SD :rolleyes:

Laters,
Mikef5

Well it was KTVU last week now tonight after the first commercial break on Lost on KGO we're stuck in SD land again. I hope it's not an equipment failure. I can't wait until HDTV grows up. :(

Well, from what I've learned in the past few weeks I may soon be joining you on Dish Network. The only thing that is keeping me here now is FSN-HD and if things don't get better by the end of baseball season, I'll be dropping cable all together. Dish is going to be showing local HD channels sometime next week in the S.F. area so the only thing that cable has is the regional HD sports and that's just not enough for what I pay for and what I get now to keep me here. I've had cable over 15 years but the way our area is treated it seems it's time to move on. For what I can get on Dish it just doesn't make sense for me to stay with cable. Don't get me wrong, if you are in an upgraded area cable is the way to go and I believe cable is headed in the right direction for you, just not in the 550 MHz areas. I don't see anything changing in our area in the near future, probably not until next year sometime, to long for me. So I'll enjoy the Giants in HD this year and see what happens after that, but I'm pessimistic to say the least.

Laters,
Mikef5


Anything special about your 550mhz area thats letting you get FSN-HD? Less required analog chans maybe that they must carry that is leaving enough bandwith free for it?

Overhere in the eastbay in antioch they have to carry many of the sacramento analog stations along with the sf ones(least I assume its a requirement?) So that right there I guess is a example maybe for a reason why things are even tighter in some 550mhz areas than others.

I want my dang giants in HD! LOL

Anything special about your 550mhz area thats letting you get FSN-HD? Less required analog chans maybe that they must carry that is leaving enough bandwith free for it?

Overhere in the eastbay in antioch they have to carry many of the sacramento analog stations along with the sf ones(least I assume its a requirement?) So that right there I guess is a example maybe for a reason why things are even tighter in some 550mhz areas than others.

I want my dang giants in HD! LOL
I don't know why it would be a requirement as Antioch is not in the Sacramento DMA.

Well it was KTVU last week now tonight after the first commercial break on Lost on KGO we're stuck in SD land again. I hope it's not an equipment failure. I can't wait until HDTV grows up. :(

That's due to bad automation, or bad programming of the automation. You noticed that it went back to HD after the next local break. My question would be: Why didn't the Technical Director on duty notice it and do something about it?

The TD is watching four stations (KGO analog, HD, DT Plus and Accuweather) but you'd think he'd notice the lack of HD.

Larry
SF

Anyone tried to watch the KQED multicast channels? (196 or so) What garbage! I can get better quality streaming video off the interwebs! It looks ok with a static shot, but as soon as there is any motion - bam macroblocks the size of your head! The hell?

Anyone tried to watch the KQED multicast channels? (196 or so) What garbage! I can get better quality streaming video off the interwebs! It looks ok with a static shot, but as soon as there is any motion - bam macroblocks the size of your head! The hell?
Yes - it is pretty unbelievable how bad it is. I watch OTA, but the same issue. I emailed KQED to tell them that this is a big step backwards from where they were a few months ago (no reply). To be honest I would rather have analog than this macroblocking crap...

peter

That's due to bad automation, or bad programming of the automation. You noticed that it went back to HD after the next local break. My question would be: Why didn't the Technical Director on duty notice it and do something about it?

The TD is watching four stations (KGO analog, HD, DT Plus and Accuweather) but you'd think he'd notice the lack of HD.

Larry
SF
I thought the splicers weren't automated yet and that switching is done manually. They had to get the HD back up because there was a REMAX HD ad coming up on the next break. :D

(Or maybe the TD was reading AVSForum instead and saw my post and went running to the console).

Here's an interesting article about the inequities in cable systems offerings. Looks like we of the 550 MHz areas are not alone.
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=674929

Laters,
Mikef5

I thought the splicers weren't automated yet and that switching is done manually. They had to get the HD back up because there was a REMAX HD ad coming up on the next break. :D

(Or maybe the TD was reading AVSForum instead and saw my post and went running to the console).

I was talking about the situation at ABC7. They are totally automated, and have been for over a year. I don't know about FOX2.

Larry
SF

It looks like I may be moving to the Bay Area soon (possibly Castro Valley). Currently I have Dish Network but I don't know if I will be taking Dish with me as I am interested in a HD DVR and do not want to have to pay $300-$400 for it.
How do you all feel about the channels in HD quality wise and quantity?
How do you feel about the HD DVR that is being provided by Comcast (firewire ad HDMI outs?)?
What is your monthly bill and what packages do you have (also features like HD and DVR inculding tax as I heard the tax can be a little more than expected)?

My sister lives in Castro Valley and it was an early test bed for digital cable. That means they probably still have an old 550 mhz system as they can't even get OnDemand.

Here's an interesting article about the inequities in cable systems offerings. Looks like we of the 550 MHz areas are not alone.
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=674929

Laters,
Mikef5


You can understand how the smaller cable companies in small areas would not have the resources for upgrades. However when talking about a HUGE company like comcast with plenty of resources its a whole other matter.

Basically I think they figure they upgraded most of their systems and its just tough luck to the ones left behind. They still get full price from those customers either way and they are by far a minority when you look at their entire customer base.

Unless some city was standing in their way for some reason they could EASILY be doing the upgrades RIGHT NOW if they wanted and it would not even be big drain on the overall company.

So for whatever reason its just not a priority to them.

I get STEAMED just thinking about it because for example here in Antioch most of the city now is newish. So you have all these houses say built in the last 10 years tied to this antique cable system.

I am surrounded by upgraded cable systems also which just makes it worse LOL.

Oh well guess when we rant about our respective 550 areas were just repeating ourselves.

I just moved to South San Jose, zip 95136, near Capitol Auto Mall. I have the limited basic subscription.

I did a scan with my QAM tuner, but didn't found KTVU and KPIX HD channels. Can anyone share the channel line-ups, like the stations vs. the frequencies?

Thanks.

I did a scan with my QAM tuner, but didn't found KTVU and KPIX HD channels. Can anyone share the channel line-ups, like the stations vs. the frequencies?

I am not at home to check right now, but I think KTVU is 96.1 and KPIX is 96.2. Bummer as they used to come in as 2.1 and 5.1 until about 2 months ago. Call Comcast and ask them to map it back.

The majority of the East Bay is in 550 MHz hell including Castro Valley. I’m in San Lorenzo and haven’t seen much improvement in the cable system here. Most recent line-up change was 410 FSN+/Jewelry Channel. We still don’t have On Demand or any of the other HD channels.

After reading this story last year in CED ( http://www.cedmagazine.com/article/CA509144.html?industryid=43678 ) that quoted a Comcast executive vice president saying, "If we haven't upgraded those [550 MHz] systems, there's probably a good reason—either it's too costly or there's low [subscriber] penetration," says David Fellows, executive vice president and chief technology officer of Comcast Corp.

Based on their in-action and these types of comments, I don’t believe Comcast has any plans of upgrading or improving the situation in this area much. The funny thing is they criticize AT&T for redlining some communities, but it seems like they are doing the same thing here. The East bay has a blue collar stigma, but it doesn’t mean we don’t want better service. If you offer it, they will come.

At this point, I’m close to giving up and I’m already telling friends and family that if they want good HD content in our area to check out the Dish.

So what is in HD in Castro Valley (550 MHz)? I am used to Satellite so I know very little about cable.
What is channels are in HD?
Does the HD DVR have firewire?
Is there a cable card available?

Has anyone gotten the message about price changes for the remote control, hd and non hd box and other thing. I am so used now to delete those messages before completly reading them.

I did a quick scan, but didn't find anything. I thought I'd ask here because it might be something special to Comcast and the 6200 in our area. I just finished setting up media center using special firewire drivers to enable the recording of HD. I was able to record ABC yesterday with out a problem, but today I tried to record 4 shows on CBS and Windows Media Center stopped the recording and gave an error saying the recording was stopped, because the content provider has prevented the recording of it However, when recording directly with my Fusion and MyHD card, I do not have a problem with CBS.

Any thoughts?

Thanks!

I did a quick scan, but didn't find anything. I thought I'd ask here because it might be something special to Comcast and the 6200 in our area. I just finished setting up media center using special firewire drivers to enable the recording of HD. I was able to record ABC yesterday with out a problem, but today I tried to record 4 shows on CBS and Windows Media Center stopped the recording and gave an error saying the recording was stopped, because the content provider has prevented the recording of it However, when recording directly with my Fusion and MyHD card, I do not have a problem with CBS.

Any thoughts?

Thanks!

Do the Fusion/MyHD cards honor the 5c flag? For some reason I thought they didn't but I could be wrong. You could go into the 6200's diagnostics menu and see if 5c is enabled -- that would tell you if copy protection is the problem. Keep in mind too that the MCE thing is a "hack" and may have issues. I personally haven't done this with my MCE box (I don't have an HD tuner card so I can't do this).

For all with QAM tuners, last night COMCAST remapped KTVU HD and KPIC HD back to 2.1 and 5.1. So if you have a Sony SXRD you do not need to do another channel lookup, just go in an set the flag to show on 2.1 and 5.1.

YEAH!!!

Of course, its still on 79.1 and 79.2 (I posted the wrong channels for these a week or so ago, BTW)

Anyway, this shows COMCAST will listen...

Has anyone gotten the message about price changes for the remote control, hd and non hd box and other thing. I am so used now to delete those messages before completly reading them.

I got that message too. I didn't save it, but as I remember it, it was a small decrease in the rental charges for a few items. I don't think it will affect my bill by more than a few cents. Sorry, like you I usually delete most Comcast messages after reading them.

Has anyone gotten the message about price changes for the remote control, hd and non hd box and other thing. I am so used now to delete those messages before completly reading them.


Got it in San Jose a couple days ago. The changes were all reductions, but I
think each less than a dollar. I'm wondering if this is a move to counter the
new AT&T vs cable offers.....?

Do the Fusion/MyHD cards honor the 5c flag? For some reason I thought they didn't but I could be wrong. You could go into the 6200's diagnostics menu and see if 5c is enabled -- that would tell you if copy protection is the problem. Keep in mind too that the MCE thing is a "hack" and may have issues. I personally haven't done this with my MCE box (I don't have an HD tuner card so I can't do this).

That's possibly the case, but I did some other testing which indicates a different scenario.

So this is how it's supposed to work:
Cable box connected via svideo to analog card AND firewire. MCE recognizes the analog card and the svideo input. Does everything based on that. The special firewire drivers has hooks into MCE so that when MCE says: Record analog, it will also capture via firewire in parallel. Then you can have it delete the analog recording and keep the firewire (HD recording)

For ABC, NBC, and FOX so far, it works exactly that way it would seem.

For INHD, INHD2, DiscoveryHD and ESPN HD, only the analog recording works and nothing gets recorded from firewire. I assume this is because of the 5c stuff. MCE thinks everything recorded fine, because it just records everything.

For CBS, it starts to record on analog, then MCE actually stops the recording and a message in the log says: Recording stopped content protected.

So there's something going on differently when it comes to INHD etc compared to CBS, because the INHD stuff, MCE never stops the recording via analog and it just keeps going.

Going to do some more testing, will let you know. If anyone has ideas, let me know as well.

Actually, 5c protection is "honored" by the cable STB, not the receiving device. The STB won't send the stream if the receving device isn't certified as "5c compliant". That's likely what you're seeing with CBS (i.e., [incorrectly!] 5c-protected content) whereas the InHD, etc., cable channels are scrambled using DCII encoding instead of MPEG-2. The STB doesn't need to inhibit the FW output, because it's simply gibberish to an MPEG-2 decoder.

Actually, 5c protection is "honored" by the cable STB, not the receiving device. The STB won't send the stream if the receving device isn't certified as "5c compliant". That's likely what you're seeing with CBS (i.e., [incorrectly!] 5c-protected content) whereas the InHD, etc., cable channels are scrambled using DCII encoding instead of MPEG-2. The STB doesn't need to inhibit the FW output, because it's simply gibberish to an MPEG-2 decoder.

So who do I notify or what would the steps be to correct the incorrect 5c-protection on CBS? Is that a Comcast thing? A CBS thing? Am I just kinda stuck...

I expect that it's incorrect settings on Comcast's local encoder...but that's a shot in the dark.

For all with QAM tuners, last night COMCAST remapped KTVU HD and KPIC HD back to 2.1 and 5.1.

Actually, PSIP for those two came back last Friday for me. I'm still waiting
for PSIP on KNTV (11.1 on transponder 116, prog# 1).

I think all of San Francisco is now All Digital. I noticed last night that the PQ on the "analog" channels was better than usual, went to see if they were digital now, and they were. I checked about 15-20 channels and all had a 256 QAM.

The PQ in San Francisco on SD channels is pretty good, I must say. I just switched to Comcast from DirecTV, and channels like SciFi and Comedy Central are SO much better than they were on DirecTV.

Now we just need more HD. Bring it.

-=Brazil=-

I think all of San Francisco is now All Digital. I noticed last night that the PQ on the "analog" channels was better than usual, went to see if they were digital now, and they were. I checked about 15-20 channels and all had a 256 QAM.

Just a quick tip: if you want to know if a channel is digital or analog without having to shut down your box and go into the diagnostics menu, just tune to the channel you want to check and look at the Info bar. If there's a "Dolby Digital" icon on the bar then the channel is digital.

I think all of San Francisco is now All Digital. I noticed last night that the PQ on the "analog" channels was better than usual, went to see if they were digital now, and they were. I checked about 15-20 channels and all had a 256 QAM.

I live in the East Bay and noticed the analog stations are now digital. Must of just happened this week. Big improvement because the analog stations were horrid on my LCD.

I live in the East Bay and noticed the analog stations are now digital. Must of just happened this week. Big improvement because the analog stations were horrid on my LCD.

Did you put a 3412 anywhere in your house or did your 6412 (or whatever STB you have) just magically become all-digital?

Does anyone know how far Comcast has progressed for analog-digital simulcast in Cupertino? Are most or all analog channels replicated in digital yet?

I've waited for this day for 3 years! FINALLY, I can accurately say I have DIGITAL cable. On my fixed pixel plasma, it's a definate improvement in clairity, even if the bitrate could be a bit better.

Did you put a 3412 anywhere in your house or did your 6412 (or whatever STB you have) just magically become all-digital?

I have a 6412. I came home yesterday and noticed SpikeTV had a really clean picture. This station usually looked like garbage. I then started going through all the analog stations to see if they looked better, and they did. Using the following thread I checked to see if what format the channels were in:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=500545&page=1&pp=30

I didn't do anything at all. Comcast must have pushed new firmware and switched me over to all-digital.

Just a quick tip: if you want to know if a channel is digital or analog without having to shut down your box and go into the diagnostics menu, just tune to the channel you want to check and look at the Info bar. If there's a "Dolby Digital" icon on the bar then the channel is digital.

Not true all the time. None of the former analog channels have a "Dolby Digital" icon, yet they are digital.

Anyone have any info on the Peninsula (San Carlos)? I have a Moto 6200 and don't believe the method for determining the nature of the signal that is described in the other thread (power off box and hit "select") pulls up channel info on the 6200 since I tried this once a while back without success -- and I'm away from my TV for the next day or so and can't even check to see if there is any visible improvement. Thanks.

Not true all the time. None of the former analog channels have a "Dolby Digital" icon, yet they are digital.

They do on all of my "analog" channels. It only shows up on the thin "info bar" -- i.e. the flip bar. Tune to an "analog" channel and you'll see it immediately. On the bottom part of your screen (by default). If you don't see it then I don't think your channels are digital.

They do on all of my "analog" channels. It only shows up on the thin "info bar" -- i.e. the flip bar. Tune to an "analog" channel and you'll see it immediately. On the bottom part of your screen (by default). If you don't see it then I don't think your channels are digital.

Actually, I'm noticing if I switch from tuner A to tuner B, and tuner B is on a digital channel, it doesn't show the DD logo on the tuner B channel. Only when I change channels to another digital station does it show it. Probably another iGuide bug. Either way, if you keep changing stations, you'll eventually see it. :D

Anyone have any info on the Peninsula (San Carlos)? I have a Moto 6200 and don't believe the method for determining the nature of the signal that is described in the other thread (power off box and hit "select") pulls up channel info on the 6200 since I tried this once a while back without success -- and I'm away from my TV for the next day or so and can't even check to see if there is any visible improvement. Thanks.I don't know about the STB roll out, but the ADS subchannels were in place on my cable last week, mostly on rf 86, IIRC.

Well I don't have the Dolby logo on any analog channels, yet they show up as being as 256 QAM. I trust the cable box itself more than the I-Guide.

On a side note, I noticed that movies on the main Starz and HBO channels have started being in Dolby 5.1 instead of just Dolby 2.0 sound. Does that have anything to do with the ADS starting?

I have a 6412. I came home yesterday and noticed SpikeTV had a really clean picture. This station usually looked like garbage. I then started going through all the analog stations to see if they looked better, and they did. Using the following thread I checked to see if what format the channels were in:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=500545&page=1&pp=30

I didn't do anything at all. Comcast must have pushed new firmware and switched me over to all-digital.

ADS has NOT happened in Fremont. :mad:
I am waiting for this to clear bandwidth for more HD.
Where is my ESPN2HD ?! :confused:

Does anyone know what this HDTV channel is reserved for? So far no programming has been sent over this channel. --Kent

i don't think ADS has arrived in palo alto either... same crappy pq on analog

Anyone seeing breakups on channel 705. I've checked the OTA signal and it's fine. I've done a diagnostic check and no errors, either correctable or non correctable, but the signal is still breaking up. My guess would be a compression problem on Comcast for this channel. It would be nice if others would report what they are experiencing so I can isolate the source of the problem, wether it is local or system wide. Thanks.

Laters,
Mikef5

Anyone seeing breakups on channel 705. I've checked the OTA signal and it's fine. I've done a diagnostic check and no errors, either correctable or non correctable, but the signal is still breaking up. My guess would be a compression problem on Comcast for this channel. It would be nice if others would report what they are experiencing so I can isolate the source of the problem, wether it is local or system wide. Thanks.

Laters,
Mikef5


In the diganostic menu on the 6412 you can check the signal quality. Some of my channels are actual showing as "poor" but they are correctable.

Just turn off the STB and hit the "OK/Select" button immediately after you turn it off. You will get a diag menu. Check the in-band status for signal information.

In the diganostic menu on the 6412 you can check the signal quality. Some of my channels are actual showing as "poor" but they are correctable.

Just turn off the STB and hit the "OK/Select" button immediately after you turn it off. You will get a diag menu. Check the in-band status for signal information.
Did that, all signal diagnostics are Good, it's not a box problem either because it's doing it on both my boxes and only on that channel. It might be localized to this area since I'm in a 550 MHz area but it's strange that it only affects one channel. Thanks for your input though. Are you seeing any break up of channel 705 ???

Laters,
Mikef5

Did that, all signal diagnostics are Good, it's not a box problem either because it's doing it on both my boxes and only on that channel. It might be localized to this area since I'm in a 550 MHz area but it's strange that it only affects one channel. Thanks for your input though. Are you seeing any break up of channel 705 ???

Laters,
Mikef5

705...that is KPIX right? If it is happening on both your STB's and your signal is showing as "good" then there must be a problem at the headend. How often does the signal break? Every couple seconds, or is it random?

705...that is KPIX right? If it is happening on both your STB's and your signal is showing as "good" then there must be a problem at the headend. How often does the signal break? Every couple seconds, or is it random?
It's constant and sometimes it freezes the screen for a couple of seconds. If you're not seeing the same problem on 705, KPIX, then it could be a head end problem, that's why I need more people to check the channel to narrow it down to the area or if it's a system wide problem. I've been with cable for 15 years and my brother was a tech for cable so I am familiar with the cable system, just so you don't think I'm some newbee :) . Again thanks for the input, it helps to narrow down the problem.

Laters,
Mikef5

It's constant and sometimes it freezes the screen for a couple of seconds. If you're not seeing the same problem on 705, KPIX, then it could be a head end problem, that's why I need more people to check the channel to narrow it down to the area or if it's a system wide problem. I've been with cable for 15 years and my brother was a tech for cable so I am familiar with the cable system, just so you don't think I'm some newbee :) . Again thanks for the input, it helps to narrow down the problem.

Laters,
Mikef5


I'm the noob (at least on this site) lol.

Hope you figure out the problem. Good luck.

Later


- Nick

ADS has NOT happened in Fremont. :mad:
I am waiting for this to clear bandwidth for more HD.
Where is my ESPN2HD ?! :confused:

it has.

I'm the noob (at least on this site) lol.

Hope you figure out the problem. Good luck.

Later


- Nick
Nick,
Thanks for the input but you never said if you are seeing this problem or not in your area ???? Is anyone in the SaraMilgatos area seeing problems with channel 705, KPIX.. ??? I know someone has to be watching The Price is Right :D

Laters,
Mikef5

Nick,
Thanks for the input but you never said if you are seeing this problem or not in your area ???? Is anyone in the SaraMilgatos area seeing problems with channel 705, KPIX.. ??? I know someone has to be watching The Price is Right :D

Laters,
Mikef5

I live in San Ramon and have no problems with 705.

I live in San Ramon and have no problems with 705.
Thanks Nick, I appreciate your help.

Laters,
Mikef5

No ADS in San Jose either. Maybe next week.

Anyone seeing breakups on channel 705. I've checked the OTA signal and it's fine. I've done a diagnostic check and no errors, either correctable or non correctable, but the signal is still breaking up. My guess would be a compression problem on Comcast for this channel. It would be nice if others would report what they are experiencing so I can isolate the source of the problem, wether it is local or system wide. Thanks.

Laters,
Mikef5
Yes. It must have started around 11pm last night because WAT was fine, I noticed it on Letterman, and I just checked today and it's still doing it. Incoming signal strength is fine, it's a problem somewhere further up the line, and it may be only on 550 systems if not many others are seeing it. It's impossible to miss by the way.

Yes. It must have started around 11pm last night because WAT was fine, I noticed it on Letterman, and I just checked today and it's still doing it. Incoming signal strength is fine, it's a problem somewhere further up the line, and it may be only on 550 systems if not many others are seeing it. It's impossible to miss by the way.

Not limited to the 550ers. I'm seeing it too and I'm on a 750 system.

Yes. It must have started around 11pm last night because WAT was fine, I noticed it on Letterman, and I just checked today and it's still doing it. Incoming signal strength is fine, it's a problem somewhere further up the line, and it may be only on 550 systems if not many others are seeing it. It's impossible to miss by the way.
Thanks Keenan, I have a sneaking hunch that Comcast is compressing the signals and has screwed it up. Seems strange that it only affects one channel. I know yesterday KPIX went off the air for about an hour on OTA and for about 10 minutes on cable. I know cable has a separate feed rather than using the OTA signal. So far it seems to be isolated to the 550 MHz areas, that's why I think it's a Comcast problem and not an equipment or line problem. Now I just need more people in the 550 MHz areas to check to see if they are having this problem also. Good thing that I can get KPIX OTA so I'd be pi**ed, can't miss NCIS or CIS programs :p

Laters,
Mikef5

Not limited to the 550ers. I'm seeing it too and I'm on a 750 system.
OOPS !!! You must of posted as I was writing my last post. So not just the 550 MHz areas, but San Ramon is not seeing it ??? Strange...

Laters,
Mikef5

OOPS !!! You must of posted as I was writing my last post. So not just the 550 MHz areas, but San Ramon is not seeing it ??? Strange...

Laters,
Mikef5

Right now the only thing on is SD material so I don't know if it would be any different with HD content (my guess is no). San Ramon is on a different head end then me (I think mine is the Martinez head end) but then again the Saramilgatos area is definitely on a different head end so I'm not sure.

Right now the only thing on is SD material so I don't know if it would be any different with HD content (my guess is no). San Ramon is on a different head end then me (I think mine is the Martinez head end) but then again the Saramilgatos area is definitely on a different head end so I'm not sure.

My bad...the soaps are in HD...and they are all kinds of messed up.

There's HD material on right now, some soap opera, the only one that's done in HD. The problem is still there.

Right now the only thing on is SD material so I don't know if it would be any different with HD content (my guess is no). San Ramon is on a different head end then me (I think mine is the Martinez head end) but then again the Saramilgatos area is definitely on a different head end so I'm not sure.
Actually, The Young and the Restless, is on now and is broadcasted in HD and I still see the macro blocking. I know that you are on a different loop than I'm on and so is Santa Rosa so for all these areas to see the same problem means the problem is on the main loop and not individual loops. That means the problem is not local but system wide. It's also not KPIX because the OTA is fine. Unless there's a problem with the KPIX feed to Comcast. I know that DISH just lauched local HD in the Bay Area and I'm wondering if that is a problem with their signal to Comcast being affected. I guess I need to find someone on Dish to see if they are seeing this problem.

Laters,
Mikef5

It just stopped doing it a few minutes ago, it's looked fine the last 5 or so minutes.

(there's some good looking babes in this show.. :p )

I will check to confirm when I get home. I did watch CSI last night which was recorded from 705. I didn't notice any hiccups.

Mikef5,
SunnySaraMilGatos resident here. Saw problems on 705 last night while watching Letterman. Hope this additional info/input helps.

It just stopped doing it a few minutes ago, it's looked fine the last 5 or so minutes.

(there's some good looking babes in this show.. :p )
It just stopped while I was watching the news, think someone is reading the Forums ??? :) or just a coincidence....

Laters,
Mikef5

Mikef5,
SunnySaraMilGatos resident here. Saw problems on 705 last night while watching Letterman. Hope this additional info/input helps.
Thanks for the input, every bit helps. It's cleared up for now but it needs to be monitored to see if it happens again. I'm not a Letterman fan, Leno for me :p , that's why I didn't notice this until this morning.

Laters,
Mikef5

Thanks for the input, every bit helps. It's cleared up for now but it needs to be monitored to see if it happens again. I'm not a Letterman fan, Leno for me :p , that's why I didn't notice this until this morning.

Laters,
Mikef5
I'm not a Letterman fan either. I usually watch Leno, but Tom Cruise was on (who cares! oops, did I say that out loud?). Letterman had Teri Hatcher on (She's a Sunnyvale girl. We went to the same high school, but she graduated the year before I got there). So I thought I'd watch that segment.

Still waiting.

But I noticed good improvement: CSPAN and CNN channles among othere are being simulcast (without turning it on on STB) for a few month now. When I checked last time, the colors on digital version was horrible to the extent of almost unwatchable. I knew it was not my TV since it shows other digital channels very nicely. When I checked today, the digital versions were really nice. Saw some pixelation on CNN HN though.

I'm not a Letterman fan either. I usually watch Leno, but Tom Cruise was on (who cares! oops, did I say that out loud?). Letterman had Teri Hatcher on (She's a Sunnyvale girl. We went to the same high school, but she graduated the year before I got there). So I thought I'd watch that segment.
I like Tom Cruise's movies but he's a little to weird for my taste, but Teri Hatcher is a different thing, a very tasty dish :D

Laters,
Mikef5

"a little too weird"...? The guy's a certified weirdo in my book... :D

Anyone else with a DVR get digital break-up with analog channels? I know it's the box because if I switch over to the antenna input the picture is fine.

I was trying to watch the Giants game on ch 40 but it kept glitching and breaking up. The funny thing is at 8pm I had a recording scheduled and it was fine from 8-9, but then as soon as the recording stopped the glitches came back. Do I have a bad box or something? It only did this that one time ...

Anyone else with a DVR get digital break-up with analog channels? I know it's the box because if I switch over to the antenna input the picture is fine.

I was trying to watch the Giants game on ch 40 but it kept glitching and breaking up. The funny thing is at 8pm I had a recording scheduled and it was fine from 8-9, but then as soon as the recording stopped the glitches came back. Do I have a bad box or something? It only did this that one time ...
I watched the entire Giants game, in glorious ANALOG :eek: , and didn't see any break ups, if it had been any other team there's no way I would have watched.

It sounds like you might have one of your tuners going bad but if it's only doing it once in a while it will be hard to trouble shoot. If it persists I'd just get the box changed out and avoid the problems of trying to trouble shoot it. If that doesn't work then you need to have a tech come out and check your setup.

Laters,
Mikef5

"a little too weird"...? The guy's a certified weirdo in my book... :D
You're right, I'm just a diplomat at heart :p
So Keenan, I think I remember you saying that you had Dish or was it Directv ?? Are you getting the locals in HD and how do they look ??

Laters,
Mikef5

I know that DISH just lauched local HD in the Bay Area and I'm wondering if that is a problem with their signal to Comcast being affected. Well, Dish has its own problems, to put it mildly. PQ for their HD LiL for SF has been pretty dismal, far worse than Comcast, for me here in S.F. Young and the Restless on Comcast this morning blew away Dish, which matches what I saw for Alias and for the Tonight Show. Leno was the worst, with swim in the backgrounds and what looked like dropped frames. Very nasty.

Didn't mean to digress too much, but 705/KPIX has looked fine when I've checked (like Y&R this morning), but I may have missed the actual problem.

I think I read somewhere (here or SG) that Dish is compressing their LiL streams down to about 9 mbps. Eeek.

I watched the entire Giants game, in glorious ANALOG :eek: , and didn't see any break ups, if it had been any other team there's no way I would have watched.

It sounds like you might have one of your tuners going bad but if it's only doing it once in a while it will be hard to trouble shoot. If it persists I'd just get the box changed out and avoid the problems of trying to trouble shoot it. If that doesn't work then you need to have a tech come out and check your setup.

Laters,
Mikef5


I watched the Giants game last night on FSN in digital simulcast. Picture was excellent. Kudos to Comcast for getting this done. There is no reason to go with a dish anymore.

My phone (voip), TV and internet all through that wonderful coax cable. They need to ditch the analog stations asap so we can open more bandwith for 30mbps cable modems. :D

I watched the Giants game last night on FSN in digital simulcast. Picture was excellent. Kudos to Comcast for getting this done. There is no reason to go with a dish anymore.

My phone (voip), TV and internet all through that wonderful coax cable. They need to ditch the analog stations asap so we can open more bandwith for 30mbps cable modems. :D
Nick,
You just hit a sore spot, I'm in a 550 MHz area which means no digital simulcasting, no video on demand, only one movie channel in HD. Kudos to Comcast ??? Not in this area. That's not to say Comcast is all bad but if you live in a 550 MHz area you would sing another song. Glad things are good in your area though.

Laters,
Mikef5

Nick,
You just hit a sore spot, I'm in a 550 MHz area which means no digital simulcasting, no video on demand, only one movie channel in HD. Kudos to Comcast ??? Not in this area. That's not to say Comcast is all bad but if you live in a 550 MHz area you would sing another song. Glad things are good in your area though.

Laters,
Mikef5


So they are limiting some areas to 550 Mhz? I wasn't aware. That sounds horrible. They must have some major upgrades to do before they can bring up the frequency.

So they are limiting some areas to 550 Mhz? I wasn't aware. That sounds horrible. They must have some major upgrades to do before they can bring up the frequency.
Nick,
I've gone over this with Comcast for a long long time and they have no intentions of ever upgrading our areas. What they plan on doing is getting every other area switched to all digital and after all that is done they will come back to our areas and try and switch us to all digital in one fell swoop. This is what I think they will do and is not what Comcast may or may not do but from what I've been able to ascertain this is a viable scenario. So, we're screwed for a long time to come or at least in the near future. Don't get me wrong, I don't fault you for living in an area that gets all that stuff, it's just all is not equal in the Comcast world, there are haves and have nots. In the Dish world everyone gets the same programing or has access to it, as long as you pay for it, not so here.

Laters,
Mikef5

You're right, I'm just a diplomat at heart :p
So Keenan, I think I remember you saying that you had Dish or was it Directv ?? Are you getting the locals in HD and how do they look ??

Laters,
Mikef5
I have both, but I don't have the MPEG4 receivers for either service so I don't get the HD locals. I've got a 622 coming soon though and I'll probably be dropping DirecTV after this coming football season.

I have both, but I don't have the MPEG4 receivers for either service so I don't get the HD locals. I've got a 622 coming soon though and I'll probably be dropping DirecTV after this coming football season.
Sort of like what I'm going to do. I'm dropping Comcast to digital classic ( I think that is the lowest package and still get INHD and INHD2 ) until the end of baseball season and if things haven't improved in our areas, I'll go with Dish and drop Comcast all together. Let me know when you get the 622, I've heard different things from different people about the Local HD not being so great and others saying it's as good as OTA. I think since they just started transmitting these channels it's going to take a while to iron out all the bugs.

Laters,
Mikef5

This was Weds night I believe. They said the game was on HD but it was not, some Motley Crew video was on 720. So I was watching on ch 40 thru the box, but was getting breakup. I assume this is because it records it to the HD first. I have not seen it since then though. I just thought it was pretty bizarre that it actually improved when a recording started.

I tried flipping tuners (with the SWAP button) and turning the box on/off a few time (when it was not recording) but nothing really helped.

I noticed in the service menu one of the tuners is a few % higher on the AGC, I think it is... the one tuner is like 48%, and says "fair" the other is 49% and says "poor" but I don't know what I can do about that except maybe take the splitter out which I don't want to do really. I never had problems with my old non-DVR HD box, it would usually say good or fair.

Sort of like what I'm going to do. I'm dropping Comcast to digital classic ( I think that is the lowest package and still get INHD and INHD2 ) until the end of baseball season and if things haven't improved in our areas, I'll go with Dish and drop Comcast all together. Let me know when you get the 622, I've heard different things from different people about the Local HD not being so great and others saying it's as good as OTA. I think since they just started transmitting these channels it's going to take a while to iron out all the bugs.

Laters,
Mikef5
I'll let you know, if the locals are as good as Dish's regular HD channels like HDNet and HBO I'll be happy with it. The days of high image quality HD I think are behind us what with stations multi-casting and such, the real quality is with the new DVD formats. When DVD came out I all but dropped TV viewing as the quality was much better, it looks like that is coming full circle again with optical media out-performing TV.

This was Weds night I believe. They said the game was on HD but it was not, some Motley Crew video was on 720. So I was watching on ch 40 thru the box, but was getting breakup. I assume this is because it records it to the HD first. I have not seen it since then though. I just thought it was pretty bizarre that it actually improved when a recording started.

I tried flipping tuners (with the SWAP button) and turning the box on/off a few time (when it was not recording) but nothing really helped.

I noticed in the service menu one of the tuners is a few % higher on the AGC, I think it is... the one tuner is like 48%, and says "fair" the other is 49% and says "poor" but I don't know what I can do about that except maybe take the splitter out which I don't want to do really. I never had problems with my old non-DVR HD box, it would usually say good or fair.
Check your splitter and make sure it's at least a 1 GHz or greater. The dvr box is more sensitive to signal strenght, your SNR should not read "fair" at any time. From what you are saying, I think it's the splitter or a connection problem. Try removing the splitter and do a direct connect to the box and see if the problem goes away.

Laters,
Mikef5

there has been a lot of posts today on this thread!! ADS won't have too big a short term effect on me since i only watch 700s on my hdtv and the analog stuff i watch on my other tvs. hopefully we'll get a few more HD channels soon!

I'll let you know, if the locals are as good as Dish's regular HD channels like HDNet and HBO I'll be happy with it. The days of high image quality HD I think are behind us what with stations multi-casting and such, the real quality is with the new DVD formats. When DVD came out I all but dropped TV viewing as the quality was much better, it looks like that is coming full circle again with optical media out-performing TV.
With the new HD DvD's coming out it may be optical will surpass Tv for a long time to come. I'm dying to see one in action to see if they're as good as they say they are. Just hope they don't do the old format wars again, Beta vs VHS, that would be a real pain.

Laters,
Mikef5

Anyone have any info on the Peninsula (San Carlos)? I have a Moto 6200 and don't believe the method for determining the nature of the signal that is described in the other thread (power off box and hit "select") pulls up channel info on the 6200 since I tried this once a while back without success -- and I'm away from my TV for the next day or so and can't even check to see if there is any visible improvement. Thanks.

Back in San Carlos. No visible improvement in SD. And in fact the method for checking the signal via power-off and select actually worked (must have screwed it up when I tried before a while ago). Still analog here.

I don't know about the STB roll out, but the ADS subchannels were in place on my cable last week, mostly on rf 86, IIRC.

I'm afraid I'm quite a newbie in this regard -- you have digital subchannels in San Carlos with a direct cable feed to your TV? If so, there must be a way I can configure the box to use them since the box already accepts digital signals for a bunch of other channels.

Guess it's time to email Comcast unless anyone has any insight.

Thanks.

With the new HD DvD's coming out it may be optical will surpass Tv for a long time to come. I'm dying to see one in action to see if they're as good as they say they are. Just hope they don't do the old format wars again, Beta vs VHS, that would be a real pain.

Laters,
Mikef5
The first things you notice about HD-DVD is the look, the image resembles the fluidity of film more than anything else before it. You don't get the loss of clarity during motion pans, something that is very hard to avoid with HDTV. The color is another thing you'll notice, solid and vibrant. I'd love to see those aerial shots from CSI: Miami in HD-DVD, should be spectacular.

it has.

I just checked channel 22 and 38, still analog. I have 6412 installed. :cool:

I'm afraid I'm quite a newbie in this regard -- you have digital subchannels in San Carlos with a direct cable feed to your TV? If so, there must be a way I can configure the box to use them since the box already accepts digital signals for a bunch of other channels.

Guess it's time to email Comcast unless anyone has any insight.
Maybe someone has figured out some hack, but their is no official way for you, the end-user, to change the virtual guide mappings on the cable boxes.

The ADS channels have been up and running for over 2 months in pieces and probably with testing being done during off hours. If you have a QAM tuner, you can see all of them right now, but if you are using a cable box, you will most likely just need to wait for Comcast to flip a switch.

If you already have good analog, it won't be a huge improvement in clarity, but there should be less noise. If you have crappy analog, it will look significantly better.

.... but if you are using a cable box, you will most likely just need to wait for Comcast to flip a switch. .

Easiest way to get AD is to get a 3412 DVR.

Easiest way to get AD is to get a 3412 DVR.

and move to another city :(

Easiest way to get AD is to get a 3412 DVR.
Do you think that would work in the slums of SaraMilgatos ..... :eek: I wish that's all it would take :rolleyes:

Laters,
Mikef5

Maybe someone has figured out some hack, but their is no official way for you, the end-user, to change the virtual guide mappings on the cable boxes.

The ADS channels have been up and running for over 2 months in pieces and probably with testing being done during off hours. If you have a QAM tuner, you can see all of them right now, but if you are using a cable box, you will most likely just need to wait for Comcast to flip a switch.

If you already have good analog, it won't be a huge improvement in clarity, but there should be less noise. If you have crappy analog, it will look significantly better.

Thanks. I'm going to ping Comcast and just see about intentions and timing (not that I really expect a relevant, coherent, and helpful response).

My analog channels are "okay" -- not great but not awful. Had a Comcast tech out not too long ago when the FM radio broadcast channels went down (every other channel working fine) and, as part of the diagnostics in checking multiple channels he mentioned that this box just doesn't handle SD analog all that well -- so I'm anxious to see what SD digital will do to the PQ on some of my current analog channels.

I have a QAM tuner, but don't think I'll go to the trouble of getting a splitter and watching some channels through the box and some through a direct connection using the TV tuner. (We use the box pretty regularly for OnDemand and use its programming guide many times per day so I don't want to go to the trouble of mixing box and direct tuner - thankfully the analog PQ isn't so bad as to make me want to do so).

Thanks again for the info on end-user channel mapping (or rather lack thereof) in the box.

Is there a 3xxx version for 6200 (non-DVR HD receiver)?

Is there a 3xxx version for 6200 (non-DVR HD receiver)?

No, and nothing in the wings AFAIK. HD-no DVR gets a 6200 or 5100.

Does anyone know what channel I should tune to for KGO-HD in 95135?

I'm at a friend's place in San Jose and last time I was here we found KGO-HD on 88.1 but now I can't find it there, nor on 7.1, nor on any other of the channels mentioned the past couple of months.

It's such a waste to watch the NBA game in SD on this plasma :p

Does anyone know what channel I should tune to for KGO-HD in 95135?

I'm at a friend's place in San Jose and last time I was here we found KGO-HD on 88.1 but now I can't find it there, nor on 7.1, nor on any other of the channels mentioned the past couple of months.

It's such a waste to watch the NBA game in SD on this plasma :p
Try 117.x

Does anyone know what channel I should tune to for KGO-HD in 95135?

I'm at a friend's place in San Jose and last time I was here we found KGO-HD on 88.1 but now I can't find it there, nor on 7.1, nor on any other of the channels mentioned the past couple of months.

It's such a waste to watch the NBA game in SD on this plasma :p

try 80.x

try 80.x

Thanks, I told my friend and this was it.

Well I'm still getting digital breakup on analog channels. Happens a lot now. Has to be a bad box right? The analog channels are clear thru the TV's tuner.

Thanks. I'm going to ping Comcast and just see about intentions and timing (not that I really expect a relevant, coherent, and helpful response).

My analog channels are "okay" -- not great but not awful. Had a Comcast tech out not too long ago when the FM radio broadcast channels went down (every other channel working fine) and, as part of the diagnostics in checking multiple channels he mentioned that this box just doesn't handle SD analog all that well -- so I'm anxious to see what SD digital will do to the PQ on some of my current analog channels.

I have a QAM tuner, but don't think I'll go to the trouble of getting a splitter and watching some channels through the box and some through a direct connection using the TV tuner. (We use the box pretty regularly for OnDemand and use its programming guide many times per day so I don't want to go to the trouble of mixing box and direct tuner - thankfully the analog PQ isn't so bad as to make me want to do so).

Thanks again for the info on end-user channel mapping (or rather lack thereof) in the box.

Cat99 - I have been dealing with EXACTLY the same issues as you, and also live in San Carlos. Here is what I know.

1) Called Comcast last night and we are NOT all digital yet, but they said the plan is to switch us (just wouldn't say when). I did run diagnostics and confirmed most SD is analog.

2) Headend Manager actually listened and remapped KTVU and KPIX back to 2.1 and 5.1.

3) Based on #1 & 2 above, I strongly suggest you get a splitter. My SNR is around 37 for both tuners, and AGC is around 47, so splitter is not causing any noteable signal degradation, and the PAYOFF is I get better SD and HD direct from the cable to Sony SXRD w/ QAM, than through the box.

Just what I have noticed lately.

I checked all the received channels on my QAM tuner tonight, and it appears about half of the channels are already being broadcast (testing?) in San Carlos between 80.x and about 94.x.

Interesting as the 6412 does NOT see them, it is still using the analog on 2-81.

Of course the box does have some digital channels, like the 100+ channels and the HD channels.

So it should just be a matter of time for us in San Carlos.

Anyone know how Comcast will handle the customers that currently subscribe to basic and basic extended cable when they go to all digital? Will those customers have to upgrade to a full digital cable or will comcast provide them with a scaled down digital box?

Anyone know how Comcast will handle the customers that currently subscribe to basic and basic extended cable when they go to all digital? Will those customers have to upgrade to a full digital cable or will comcast provide them with a scaled down digital box?Sounds to me like a Barovelli question. :D

Anyone know how Comcast will handle the customers that currently subscribe to basic and basic extended cable when they go to all digital? Will those customers have to upgrade to a full digital cable or will comcast provide them with a scaled down digital box?
It will be a DCT700 or one of the other boxes they will use from two other manufacturers.
http://broadband.motorola.com/noflash/DCT700.html
Motorola - Connected Home Solutions

Anyone know how Comcast will handle the customers that currently subscribe to basic and basic extended cable when they go to all digital? Will those customers have to upgrade to a full digital cable or will comcast provide them with a scaled down digital box?

At first you should not notice a difference since they will still be carrying the analog channels. But eventually they will start removing the analog channels and giving you a digital box to get them.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=542401

At first you should not notice a difference since they will still be carrying the analog channels. But eventually they will start removing the analog channels and giving you a digital box to get them.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=542401
Thanks for the link to the thread. It was very informative. My concern was that Comcast didn't have a plan as to how they were going to support basic cable subscribers (which they would have been afraid of losing) and we would never get more bandwidth.

It sounds like the system was originally analog only and they upgraded that network to digital cable and everyone except basic cable subscribers (which still have 20-30 analog channels) got a digital cable box for free. Is that correct? I doubt that they'll do that in this area since many already have a digital cable box and are already paying more than basic extended analog subscribers. So I wonder what they will be doing with the basic extended analog subscribers in this area.

Anyone know how Comcast will handle the customers that currently subscribe to basic and basic extended cable when they go to all digital? Will those customers have to upgrade to a full digital cable or will comcast provide them with a scaled down digital box?

Scaled down box like the 700 or draw from any surplus of 2000s that get returned in DVR/HD exchanges. Should be included in the cost. My dream come true - a box in every home.. :D

Scaled down box like the 700 or draw from any surplus of 2000s that get returned in DVR/HD exchanges. Should be included in the cost. My dream come true - a box in every home.. :D
It is also a dream of the electric/energy traders :(

Ok I narrowed down my problem. Tell me if you think I should return this box. It's a HD-DVR, 3412 model.

When switching from a digital channel TO analog channel, it drops frames and gets digital black boxes. (The analog signal is fine as confirmed with direct to TV tuner). If I pause it for a few seconds, then hit play, it skips a few seconds, then plays normally with no glitches. Or if I turn off the box for a few seconds then back on, it's ok. Until I switch to a digital channel and back.

Is this a bad box or HDD possibly? Or just a bug?? Everything else works ok on it. Well, except for the lag sometimes with FF/REW (where it just goes to sleep for a while then "catches up" with all the buttons you pressed in the meantime). I dunno, maybe this box is just not ready for prime time?

Ok I narrowed down my problem. Tell me if you think I should return this box. It's a HD-DVR, 3412 model.

When switching from a digital channel TO analog channel, it drops frames and gets digital black boxes. (The analog signal is fine as confirmed with direct to TV tuner). If I pause it for a few seconds, then hit play, it skips a few seconds, then plays normally with no glitches. Or if I turn off the box for a few seconds then back on, it's ok. Until I switch to a digital channel and back.

Is this a bad box or HDD possibly? Or just a bug?? Everything else works ok on it. Well, except for the lag sometimes with FF/REW (where it just goes to sleep for a while then "catches up" with all the buttons you pressed in the meantime). I dunno, maybe this box is just not ready for prime time?
The 3412 has no analog tuner, it can't tune to an analog station, it will go to the digital equivalent of that channel. It seems you are in a digital simulcasting area, which is why your QAM tuner on your tv still sees the analog signal and will also see the digital channels. So just to be clear the 3412 box has no analog tuner in it and can't tune to an analog station.

Laters,
Mikef5

Quick question. I currently have a satellite service, and I am looking at getting a lcd tv with a QAM tuner. If I add a subscription to comcast's basic service (approx $14 a month) will I be able to tune in the local HD channels? Thanks for your input.

Well whatever it is, it glitches like hell. Does anyone else with a 3412 have this problem? Real easy to reproduce. Just tune to a HD channel like ESPN 723, then to analog channel like 40. It will start to drop frames and get digital breakup (the sound is ok though). And it only seems to happen for the first 20-30 seconds after you flip.

Quick question. I currently have a satellite service, and I am looking at getting a lcd tv with a QAM tuner. If I add a subscription to comcast's basic service (approx $14 a month) will I be able to tune in the local HD channels? Thanks for your input.Yes.

Mracacia,
Yes, but finding the channels can be a problem. They move around and are not mapped always to 2.1, 5.1, 7.1, 11.1.

walk,
Try another 3412 and then you will know whether it is the signal or the box.

Mracacia,
Yes, but finding the channels can be a problem. They move around and are not mapped always to 2.1, 5.1, 7.1, 11.1.



Thanks, TPeterson & hiker. I'll give it a try and see how it works. I'm way to far out to get SF OTA, and just far enough from the Sacramento towers to get two or three drop outs and hour. Comcast looks like a easy fix.

It looks like KRON-DT will start broadcasting MyNetworkTV content on September 5, 2006. MyNetworkTV refers to itself as the First All Hi-Definition Broadcast Network.

http://www.thefutoncritic.com/pr.aspx?id=20060515tribune01

Current status of ESPN2-HD
I just received this email from Mr. J. about ESPN2-HD
____________________________________________________________ ___

A quick note about the upcoming World Cup Soccer Event. I’m sure the Forum will be full of questions about the availability of ESPN2HD. You may share the information with the group.

Comcast is still in negotiating our carriage agreement with Disney, (and their entire programming family, ABC, ESPN, SoapNet, etc) and at this time we do not have the rights to carry ESPN2HD on our local cable systems.
____________________________________________________________ ____________

So it looks like this channel may not be available any time soon, at least not for the World Cup, but things might change they did get Universal Net for the Olympics for that short time.

Laters,
Mikef5

I'd like to see World Cup games, but my sympathies go to Comcast. Hard-nosed negotiations are the only obvious gravitational force on rising carriage fees.

Does this mean that NO World Cup games will be offered in HD from comcast? I've seen World Cup commericals that mention the games will be on ESPN and ESPN2, which makes me think that the ESPN games will be available for us in HD. Am I wrong?

Does this mean that NO World Cup games will be offered in HD from comcast? I've seen World Cup commericals that mention the games will be on ESPN and ESPN2, which makes me think that the ESPN games will be available for us in HD. Am I wrong?

Interesting point:

From an ABC/ESPN press release:

"For the first time, all 64 FIFA World Cup matches will be available in high definition on ESPN HD, ABC HD and ESPN2 HD. The high definition telecasts will be offered as a simulcast of ESPN, ABC Sports and ESPN2's World Cup coverage."

http://media.espn.com/ESPNToday/2006/Mar_06/cup_sked.htm

Is this taboo to discuss here?

I did a search but stopped after going through the last 10 pages...

If not, can anyone specify what is being broadcasted in the clear via comcast. I'm an analog subscriber and looking to get into the HD world.

thanks

PP

Is this taboo to discuss here?

I did a search but stopped after going through the last 10 pages...

If not, can anyone specify what is being broadcasted in the clear via comcast. I'm an analog subscriber and looking to get into the HD world.

thanks

PP

correct me if i'm wrong cuz i do actually have a box, but in the clear:

KTVU, KNTV!, KRON, KPIX, KGO and KQED

not in the clear: INHD, INHD2 (thanks), DHD, ESPN and of course all premiums

wow just looking at this list; what a meager selection of channels, although mynetworkTV is coming to kron.

inHD and inHD2 are not in the clear.

There are a bunch of other community channels (depending on which locality you're in) which Comcast is obligated to send in the clear by law.

See the first post! 702-709 are not encrypted, the rest are.

correct me if i'm wrong cuz i do actually have a box, but in the clear:

KTVU, KRON, KPIX, KGO and KQED

not in the clear: INHD, INHD2 (thanks), DHD, ESPN and of course all premiums

wow just looking at this list; what a meager selection of channels, although mynetworkTV is coming to kron.

You forgot KNTV ;)

I posted this previously but it was the last post on a page and was never answered so I will try again.
So what is in HD in Castro Valley (550 MHz)? I am used to Satellite so I know very little about cable.
What is channels are in HD?
Does the HD DVR have firewire? Do they have a HD DVR?
Is there a cable card available?

Just wondering what your bill runs and what package you have (how much is the tax on cable)?

What is channels are in HD?
It appears that Castro Valley is on the Hayward Comcast System. Castro Valley appears to be a 550 MHz system. Generally this can be determined by going to http://titantv.com and viewing Premium Comcast Service for that zip code. Usually if it was using a 750 MHz system, about 15 HD channels (starting at 702), about 50 premium movie channels (starting at 533), as well as many more other channels would be listed. Use zipcode 94539 to see a 750 MHz system.

Cat99 - I have been dealing with EXACTLY the same issues as you, and also live in San Carlos. Here is what I know.

1) Called Comcast last night and we are NOT all digital yet, but they said the plan is to switch us (just wouldn't say when). I did run diagnostics and confirmed most SD is analog.

2) Headend Manager actually listened and remapped KTVU and KPIX back to 2.1 and 5.1.

3) Based on #1 & 2 above, I strongly suggest you get a splitter. My SNR is around 37 for both tuners, and AGC is around 47, so splitter is not causing any noteable signal degradation, and the PAYOFF is I get better SD and HD direct from the cable to Sony SXRD w/ QAM, than through the box.

Just what I have noticed lately.

Thanks.

Does the HD DVR have firewire? Do they have a HD DVR?
Is there a cable card available?

Yes, the DVR has FireWire. You cannot add extra hard drive space but you can offload video to your PC (provided it's not 5c flagged). See this for more details: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=403695

Yes, you can get a CableCARD for a monthly fee.

Did anyone else notice that X2: X-Men United was not in HD tonight? It was playing on KRON, I think, and it played in 4:3 mode. Really annoying, as I was looking forward to it.

...and when did you ever see an HDTV movie on KRON...and what were you smoking? :D

Their KRON-DT stream has always been 480i (4x3). Their second subchannel has usually been 1080i, but it doesn't yet carry most of their own programming, being mainly HDNET "reruns".

Did anyone else notice that X2: X-Men United was not in HD tonight? It was playing on KRON, I think, and it played in 4:3 mode. Really annoying, as I was looking forward to it.
It was on FOX. I was disappointed as well. When I saw it on the schedule earlier yesterday I set up a reminder so I could enjoy the movie. I even had my son planning to watch with me. Then it comes on in 4:3. Big let down.

Fox, KRON, KRON-DT - they are all just silly letters to me. I just want my HD movies. :)

I have had comcast HD for about a month (with the silver package). Being a newbee I have to ask first... Is this the correct thread for Santa Cruz (California). If not how do I find it???

Thanks all!

I have had comcast HD for about a month (with the silver package). Being a newbee I have to ask first... Is this the correct thread for Santa Cruz (California). If not how do I find it???

Thanks all!
Try Monterey. Index is a sticky thread.

whenever movies start at 7:30pm on KTVU they're never HD

I'm in Santa Cruz Comcast signal area and have noticed recently although my Comcast signal strength was checked and is okay - late at night well after prime time and into early AM ----------- my PQ improves dramatically –sharper image, grain absent and richer colors on nearly all channels especially noticeable on analog channels. I'm convinced its not in my mind due to Comcast tech not being aware of any signal strength increase after post prime time lower demand time period. In my belief, either at late hours Comcast signal is not compromised by heaviest usage or they are temporarily switching analog channels to digital. If any other Comcast subscribers have noticed the same I'd appreciate feed back.

Thanks,

Stephen

Current status of ESPN2-HD
I just received this email from Mr. J. about ESPN2-HD
____________________________________________________________ ___

A quick note about the upcoming World Cup Soccer Event. I’m sure the Forum will be full of questions about the availability of ESPN2HD. You may share the information with the group.

Comcast is still in negotiating our carriage agreement with Disney, (and their entire programming family, ABC, ESPN, SoapNet, etc) and at this time we do not have the rights to carry ESPN2HD on our local cable systems.
____________________________________________________________ ____________

So it looks like this channel may not be available any time soon, at least not for the World Cup, but things might change they did get Universal Net for the Olympics for that short time.

Laters,
Mikef5

Sadly, I'd bet that Comcast considers World Cup fans to be less useful to them than Olympics fans. And since nearly half (31 of 64) of the matches are on ESPN2, the above is very bad news indeed. I doubt any Disney execs are reading this, but they should know that at least one viewer will be watching all non-HD matches on Univision ... the choice isn't just between ESPN2HD and ESPN2, and since the only thing the Disney channels have over Univision is the HD picture, I'll be voting with my remote 31 times in a month.

Anyone else seeing massive signal breakups on channel 702 ?? This is the worst that I've seen in a long time, it's also breaking up on OTA too. Looks like KTVU still hasn't fixed it's problems with their digital signal. They had better get this fixed before the Giants game :mad:

Laters,
Mikef5

Yes, it was doing this yesterday during the game as well although it wasn't as bad. Didn't we have this same problem just recently, was it the same channel?

(BTW,did you see where Dish is adding another 4 HD channels around the first of June..? ) :)

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=679343&page=1&pp=30
E* adding 4 new national HD channels - AVS Forum

Yes, it was doing this yesterday during the game as well although it wasn't as bad. Didn't we have this same problem just recently, was it the same channel?

It was 705 last time.

Yes, it was doing this yesterday during the game as well although it wasn't as bad. Didn't we have this same problem just recently, was it the same channel?
KTVU had a melt down on it's digital equipment last week and said they had ordered the replacement equipment to fix it , obviously it hasn't been fixed because it is now worse than it was before. I think it's time to email the
General Manager of KTVU and express dissatifaction with his stations handling of this problem, here's the email if you'd like to express yourself also general.manager@ktvu.com

Laters,
Mikef5

It was 705 last time.
705's problem is miniscule compared to this problem. I've had an on going discussion with KTVU's engineering people about this problem and all you get is the we are aware of the problem and are working to get it fixed..... :rolleyes:

Laters,
Mikef5

It's go to be the tower... KPIX is screwed up as well. And since they both use the same broadcast tower to bounce signals...

fitprod

It's go to be the tower... KPIX is screwed up as well. And since they both use the same broadcast tower to bounce signals...

fitprod

I think Comcast gets most (if not all) of their local feeds via fibre at the base of Sutro and then sends it out over the cable -- OTA "bouncing" is only used as a backup.

705's problem is miniscule compared to this problem. I've had an on going discussion with KTVU's engineering people about this problem and all you get is the we are aware of the problem and are working to get it fixed..... :rolleyes:

Laters,
Mikef5

You're right. Man, they better have it fixed by tomorrow's "24" finale...

You're right. Man, they better have it fixed by tomorrow's "24" finale...
ARRRRGGGHHH, you're right season finale for 24, my second most favorite program to watch ( NCIS is my favorite :) ), and of course the Giant's game today is not in HD. The Giants really should get some other station to do their games, I wonder if channel 7 would like to do the Giants games since they don't have Monday Night Football anymore :p
Oh well, at least the signal seems to have settled down enough to watch it but I'll bet they are just rebroadcasting the SD feed to the digital channel.

Laters,
Mikef5

Giants game on channel 720 is in HD......sorry Keenan ....and the rest of Santa Rosa and anyone else that doesn't get INHD1 and 2.

Laters,
Mikef5

and of course the Giant's game today is not in HD.

It's being broacast in HD on on FSN-HD (the A's "home" broadcast). I know, I know...550ers can't get this. Just though I'd let the people who can get it know.

EDIT: posts got crossed...sorry.

It's being broacast in HD on on FSN-HD (the A's "home" broadcast). I know, I know...550ers can't get this. Just though I'd let the people who can get it know.

EDIT: posts got crossed...sorry.
What really needs to happen is for FSN Bay Area to sign a deal with both D* and E* to broadcast their HD games. If that were to happen there would be a mass exodus of 550 MHz people, at least I'd be gone in a heart beat. I can't believe they're not going to upgrade this area. :confused:

Laters,
Mikef5

I'm strongly considering moving to Dish Network. With news of them adding 4 more channels, plus they finally have locals, they'll have over 30 channels. The amount I pay won't change, as I'm going to stay with Comcast for my internet because I can't get DSL, but at least I'll get twice as many HD channels. I will give up my HD-DVR, but I don't use it much anyway. And this way I'll have ESPN2HD in time for the World Cup.

I'll call Dish tomorrow to find everything out, and if it's what I expect, I'm switching. Comcast's service is really good, but just not enough HD channels.

See my post about DCT-6412 1394 problems in the Bay Area.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7697315&&#post7697315

BTW, is firmware version 09.19 the latest?

Ron

What really needs to happen is for FSN Bay Area to sign a deal with both D* and E* to broadcast their HD games.

Well, until Comcast quits providing the funding for the HD Truck, there's no way in hell this is happening.

fitprod

See my post about DCT-6412 1394 problems in the Bay Area.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7697315&&#post7697315

BTW, is firmware version 09.19 the latest?

Ron
Firmware version 12.31 is the latest.

Laters,
Mikef5

Well, until Comcast quits providing the funding for the HD Truck, there's no way in hell this is happening.

fitprod

I believe Comcast also holds a stake in Rainbow Media (the owners of FSN) so they may be using that to help leverage their exclusivity.

So I'm upstairs watching Family Guy. During the commercial break, there was dead air for like 15 seconds, then the whole FOX feed jumps back to the start of the evening and The Simpsons restarts. I go downstairs and check the HD feed, and it's the Family Guy, just like it thould be. I go back to SD, it's still The Simpsons. After about a few minutes, the SD feed jumps back to FOX r/t with the Family Guy. What gives, KTVU?!?

was just gonna mention it...yeah that was really odd

Giants game on channel 720 is in HD......sorry Keenan ....and the rest of Santa Rosa and anyone else that doesn't get INHD1 and 2.

Laters,
Mikef5


You know are things really THAT tight that they cant put on even those two chans on 550 systems?

3 HD chans fit on 6mhz of bandwith right?

Would they like have to file for chapter 11 or something if they dropped one of the 3 shopping stations. Or do they REALLY need to have both SF and Sacramento fox,cbs,abc,nbc analog on the system.

Seams like they could pacify us 550 people for awhile with just some minor shuffling if they really wanted.

It was on FOX. I was disappointed as well. When I saw it on the schedule earlier yesterday I set up a reminder so I could enjoy the movie. I even had my son planning to watch with me. Then it comes on in 4:3. Big let down.


I can get FOX 40 OTA here in antioch and it was in HD on that chan, so it was a KTVU thing.

Firmware version 12.31 is the latest.

Laters,
Mikef5
I think it's 12.31 for the HDMI model and 9.19 for the DVI model.

is comcast finally gonna give us a new channel??? finally give us espn2hd?

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=680188

well i'm looking at my zip code's lineup, and yeah the only box, which indicates a new channel is coming, i see is kntv weather, which was effective in feb. wow what a huge addition. i put in a few east coast zip codes to see what else is on their HD lineup, and whoa... we're behind.

is comcast finally gonna give us a new channel??? finally give us espn2hd?

Yeah, right......at about the same time that they give us TNTHD, which
was announced over a year ago and appears at other Comcast locations.
The Bay Area is getting totally hosed on new HD channels, IMO.

i thought it was implied by mike's VP buddy that the bay area addition of espn2hd was SOLELY contingent on the comcast disney negotiation. espn2hd is appearing on east coast lineups, that has to mean negotiations are done! it can't be a temp job cuz it is gonna appear after the world cup.

and anyway, the lady at my local comcast center told me there would be new hd channels in 06 about 6 months ago. please don't make a liar out of her :( i may never trust another CSR again hahahaha.

Yeah, right......at about the same time that they give us TNTHD, which
was announced over a year ago and appears at other Comcast locations.
The Bay Area is getting totally hosed on new HD channels, IMO.
So you think the Bay Area is getting hosed ?? You're right, just check what's available to the East coast to what we get here in the Bay Area. Now you know what it's like to be on a 550 MHz here in the Bay Area, heck we STILL DON'T GET VOD.
It's strange that Dish seems to be adding new HD channels quite regularly and offers it to ALL it's customers not to just some of their customers and Comcast seems to be bogged down in negotiations. It boils down to this, customer satisfaction or bottom-line which do you think is more important to Comcast ??? I know what it is for the 550 MHz areas and it's not customer satisfaction, not a happy camper. :(

Laters,
Mikef5

The other day, last week, American Idol was like 2 minutes behind in the HD channel.

3 HD chans fit on 6mhz of bandwith right?
At current compression, roughly 2 HD and 2 SD fit on 6MHz. Sometimes only 2 HD.

So you think the Bay Area is getting hosed ?? You're right, just check what's available to the East coast to what we get here in the Bay Area.

I know.......that's what I'm talking about!

Now you know what it's like to be on a 550 MHz here in the Bay Area, heck we STILL DON'T GET VOD.
It's strange that Dish seems to be adding new HD channels quite regularly and offers it to ALL it's customers not to just some of their customers and Comcast seems to be bogged down in negotiations. It boils down to this, customer satisfaction or bottom-line which do you think is more important to Comcast ??? I know what it is for the 550 MHz areas and it's not customer satisfaction, not a happy camper. :(

Mikef5, believe me, I'm well aware of what you and the other 550MHzers are dealing with....
I've been there before; I feel your pain, and it's not fair. But for those for us that DO have 750-860MHz systems, what is Comcast's excuse for not adding more HD channels? Why are other National areas getting several new channels while we get none? Are they really trying to dump the Bay Area???

Where have you gone, Mr. Johnson???

I know.......that's what I'm talking about!



Mikef5, believe me, I'm well aware of what you and the other 550MHzers are dealing with....
I've been there before; I feel your pain, and it's not fair. But for those for us that DO have 750-860MHz systems, what is Comcast's excuse for not adding more HD channels? Why are other National areas getting several new channels while we get none? Are they really trying to dump the Bay Area???

Where have you gone, Mr. Johnson???
mds54,
My rant wasn't directed at you and I hope you didn't take it that way. My intent was to show that in the Comcast world there are inequities and these need to be dealt with. In the satillite world they offer a product to all customers and you get what you pay for. All packages are the same and the same price no matter where you are located, something that Comcast doesn't do and doesn't offer. Hope you understand my point and where my finger was pointed to....directly at Comcast ;)

Laters,
Mikef5

Just so there's no confusion. My rants are directed at Comcast not any one person and the includes Mr. Johnson. In all my dealings with Mr. J. he has been very up front and honest with me. My problem is with his company and what they are not doing for the 550 MHz areas. As a person I like talking with him and I see why he is in communications. Just wanted to make things clear about my rants and concerns. ;)

Laters,
Mikef5

But for those for us that DO have 750-860MHz systems, what is Comcast's excuse for not adding more HD channels? Why are other National areas getting several new channels while we get none? Are they really trying to dump the Bay Area???


my "extensive" study of business and quick-to-assume personality leads me to believe that they can add more channels for us, they won't because they'd have to engage in price differentiation, and i think they prefer to keep rates the same across the entire bay. it would be harder to get mike's digital cable money if the chasm between his offerings and our offerings were to widen even more.

if true, it just shows that comcast is truly big business, using its monopoly powers to price something way above the optimal level.

Just so there's no confusion. My rants are directed at Comcast not any one person and the includes Mr. Johnson. In all my dealings with Mr. J. he has been very up front and honest with me. My problem is with his company and what they are not doing for the 550 MHz areas. As a person I like talking with him and I see why he is in communications. Just wanted to make things clear about my rants and concerns. ;)
This reminds me of the no child left behind discussions :)

Should 750/860 be held back by 550 or should they run off on their own. Should we somehow get 550 up to 750/860 levels.

mds54,
My rant wasn't directed at you and I hope you didn't take it that way. ;)
Mikef5

Nope, I didn't take it that way at all.
I understand your point and agree with it.
We're just looking at this from two different sides of the "fence" (550vs860 MHz systems).
And we both feel (along with many others here) that we're all being slighted by Comcast.....

This reminds me of the no child left behind discussions :)

Should 750/860 be held back by 550 or should they run off on their own. Should we somehow get 550 up to 750/860 levels.

Ahhh...the Golden Question. :D

The thing that Comcast doesn't seem to grasp is that we truly live in a global economy now. Their busineses model is to run each region/area completely separate from each other. So what may be in Northern California is different in many ways then what they have in Southern California...almost like 2 separate businesses. 10-15 years ago, this worked very well. Cable customers in Northern California had no idea what the cable customers in Southern California were offered -- what they didn't know didn't hurt them. Now, with the "information superhighway" going full speed, customers all of a sudden have...gasp...information! Comcast needs to stop looking at their business from market to market and start looking at it from a whole...we sure do.

This reminds me of the no child left behind discussions :)
Should 750/860 be held back by 550 or should they run off on their own. Should we somehow get 550 up to 750/860 levels.

Yeah, seems like it's a no-win situation for both consumer sides......
1)If they add new HD channels to the 750/860MHz areas, the 550MHzers will be forced to leave since they will
be paying the same amount for much less and will refuse to continue tolerating a sub-par system (IMO).
2)If they refuse to upgrade the 750/860MHzers in order to placate the 550Mhzers,
then the 750/860Mhzers will leave because Comcast is no longer being competitive with their HD offerings.

Is there any viable solution to this?

This reminds me of the no child left behind discussions :)

Should 750/860 be held back by 550 or should they run off on their own. Should we somehow get 550 up to 750/860 levels.
I'm not saying anyone should be held back but if I'm paying the same rates for cable as the greater than 550 MHz are then I should receive the same programing that they are. Right now my cable bill is $135 a month. I have the top tier and have only 2 phase 3 boxes but I only get 1 HD movie channel ( HBO-HD ), we have no VOD, we don't have the lame KRON-HD, that's it. We do get INHD1 and 2, ESPN-HD and the local HD channels. So why am I paying the same as the rest of the area and getting less ??? Should Comcast correct this inequity ??? You bet they should. Why haven't they even started doing something about it ??? Not cost effective is why. Should they do it at the expense of other areas ?? No, they don't have to, they can do both, one is not dependent on the other. Most of what Comcast or any other business does or doesn't do is based on the bottom line and unfortunately the 550 MHz areas are at the bottom of that bottom line.
Boy, I haven't been on the soap box in a long time :D
Time to go watch Bonds hit 715

Laters,
Mikef5

Comcast is going to have added pressure this fall when the CW(UPN-WB)-KBHK hits the air with a full HD primetime lineup and MyNetwork which will be on KRON, also in HD. This disparity between the two types of systems in one market area can't last long too much longer.

OTOH, as long as people subscribe to these crappier systems Comcast has no incentive to change anything, to think Comcast cares about anything other than the bottom line is being silly. I'll bet we see a voice over IP phone service offered before we get more HD.

Comcast is going to have added pressure this fall when the CW(UPN-WB)-KBHK hits the air with a full HD primetime lineup and MyNetwork which will be on KRON, also in HD. This disparity between the two types of systems in one market area can't last long too much longer.

OTOH, as long as people subscribe to these crappier systems Comcast has no incentive to change anything, to think Comcast cares about anything other than the bottom line is being silly. I'll bet we see a voice over IP phone service offered before we get more HD.
Actually, if UPN and WB go away that's 2 analog channels that are gone and will free up some bandwidth. So it remains to be seen what they will do with it.
Bonds only hit a single .... back to the game :)

Laters,
Mikef5

Not cost effective is why. Should they do it at the expense of other areas ?? No, they don't have to, they can do both, one is not dependent on the other. Most of what Comcast or any other business does or doesn't do is based on the bottom line and unfortunately the 550 MHz areas are at the bottom of that bottom line.

But think about how much money they're saving by not upgrading these areas.

something wrong with KTVU HD?? 24 is on soon!!1 OH NO...

sigh, KPIX hd is down too... WHY???>

KTVU HD was fine for me throughout "24".

oh god!! it can't be just me... sigh... it says "channel will arrive shortly" on both ktvu and kpix.

CSR confirmed it was a BAY AREA wide problem... guess moraga doesn't count :P