For Comcast, read the first post in this topic. For the rest of the story, read the HDTV Programming Synopsis, at the top of this forum.


Ken, you have GOT to have the highest number of posts on AVS!!:eek:

I still would like to know when Comcast is going to add more HD channels because they are still far behind Direct TV & Dish Network. Where's Animal Planet, Science Channel, MGM, Movie Channel, FX, Cartoon Network, Nickelodeon, NBA, NHL, Smithsonian, Biography, Travel, Big Ten, Tennis Channel, the Starz channels (Comedy, Edge, Kids & Family), Weather Channel, etc?

I've heard rumblings going on about TWC HD being around the corner. Don't count on Big Ten any time soon. Seems like Big Ten wants to charge almost as much as ESPN does just for the MSOs to carry the network. Found this site regarding the whole Big Ten network cluster.http://www.puttingfansfirst.com/

Comcast's guides use the same info on their SD channels that they do on their HD channels. If you are watching on the SD channel and the show is listed on the guide as being in HD, switch to the HD channel! They will also list in the guide, HD, on networks such as FX, as network they are not yet carrying in HD. There is no way for you to watch that show in HD on Comcast.
That's just the way Comcast does things, at least on our local system.

Partially true. Only true for HD channels that are "simulcasts" of the SD, meaning that they show the same shows as the SD channel, but the HD version. HGTV-HD for example, is not a simulcast, and therefore has different programming than the SD version.

Comcast says CNN, MSNBC and Fox News are due to join the HD lineup this spring.

http://www.denverpost.com/entertainment/ci_8070093

Don't count on Big Ten any time soon.Keep counting.

Comcast & Big Ten Network are talking seriously, and I expect to see it relatively soon. The 'Putting Fans First' web site is propaganda.

Keep counting.

Comcast & Big Ten Network are talking seriously, and I expect to see it relatively soon. The 'Putting Fans First' web site is propaganda.

I heard that there was a deal that was close. Hopefully comcast will add it before the football season starts.

HD offerings are more a matter of the specific age of the cable infrastructure rather than the population of the city.

Could you expand a little? I'm curious how this works...

Could you expand a little? I'm curious how this works...

The older the Cable Infrastructure, the less capacity the system has (the newer systems have newer techology which provides more bandwidth for services)....HD channels take a lot of bandwidth.

Comcast signs deals at the National Level...so all of it's regions have access to all of the HD Channels, but its a matter of wether they have enough bandwidth/equipment to send them on their individual systems

So, even though I am in a brand new neighborhood the headend supporting my location could have bandwidth limitations? I currently have 20 HD channels (including all the premium movie channels). But the lack of rollout for SciFi in HD in all of Denver is most likely due to bandwidth?

I get Comcast HD in Denver as well and looked into your question. It proved to be an exercise in frustration. The paraphrased answer I consistantly got was: "We don't know in advance either and they'll just come when ready". I spoke with a half-dozen reps in different departments and couldn't get useful information from any of them. The sad thing is, I really only need two more channels to stay with them (Sci-Fi, and HGTV).

I'm tempted to drop Comcast now and move to D* or E* but given that I'm living in an apartment at present preparing to build a new house, I guess I'll wait until it's completed. If Comcast's HD offerings do not improve by then I'll definitely switch. Compared to the lineups I'm reading about from other cities, Denver has to be among the worst, epecially given its relative size.

I agree. I have been considering make a switch too, but I am concerned about HD quality with dish. I would really like to know what others have experienced going from Comcast to DirecTV HD. Denver seems to get channels last probably because of an older infrastructure and it's frustrating.

Also keep in mind, the older the system, the harder and more expensive it is to upgrade. Especially if the older system was designed wrong to begin with (perhaps by a cash strapped local cable provider that later on was bought out by Comcast), as Comcast would have to correct the design flaws while upgrading the equipment. All of this time, it has to do it with basically no downtime (which is not easy and again is expensive).

So typically Comcast (or any provider) will try to upgrade systems in areas where they get the biggest bang for the buck (after all, they want to turn the biggest profit possible), then hope costs go down as they upgrade more areas (due to cheaper equipment, more practice, advances in technology, etc.).

That is why some cable systems always gets new features, channels, etc. while some cable systems look like they haven't been touched since 1995.

So, even though I am in a brand new neighborhood the headend supporting my location could have bandwidth limitations? I currently have 20 HD channels (including all the premium movie channels). But the lack of rollout for SciFi in HD in all of Denver is most likely due to bandwidth?

Keep in mind your particular Node may have enough bandwidth but some areas in your region may not so your region may be electing to stay with the lowest common denomitator

Out here in the Greater SF Bay Area, our Region is divided up into hundreds of areas ranging from 550Mhz, 750Mhz, 860Mhz and 1GHz depending on how new/rebuilt the system is.

The 550Mhz systems ran out of Bandwidth a long time ago and comcast is slowing upgrading them to 1GHz (about a 2yr project)...they have very limited HD channels until the upgrades are done

750Mhz is basically out of bandwidth, but Comcast is moving some of the Analog channels over to digital to slowly free up bandwidth (so they dont have to upgrade the infrastucture)

860/1Ghz have enough bandwidth to provide everything Comcast has, but our region has elected to keep the 750+ Networks all with the same channels...So those in the 860/1Ghz nodes are SOL as far as getting more channels until Comcast frees up space on the 750 Systems...So out here we have several less channels than you already. :(

Of course your region is independent of ours and makes their own decisions...this is just one example

860/1Ghz have enough bandwidth to provide everything Comcast has, but our region has elected to keep the 750+ Networks all with the same channels...So those in the 860/1Ghz nodes are SOL as far as getting more channels until Comcast frees up space on the 750 Systems...So out here we have several less channels than you already. :(

Of course your region is independent of ours and makes their own decisions...this is just one example

Another consideration to remember is that in those 1GHz systems, basically anything above 860MHz, currently deployed STBs cannot tune to any bandwidth above 860MHz as their tuners are not capable of it. The new Moto boxes coming out apparently have 1Ghz tuners but I don't believe any have been actually deployed yet. Not sure what SA boxes can/cannot do.

Thanks for the explanation guys. I guess I'll just be happy I have the channels I have now...well not really. BSG is coming soon. I want my SciFi in HD!

I agree. I have been considering make a switch too, but I am concerned about HD quality with dish. I would really like to know what others have experienced going from Comcast to DirecTV HD. Denver seems to get channels last probably because of an older infrastructure and it's frustrating.

Directv's latest HD channels using the mpeg4 algorithm look just fine...and there is a heck of alot more of them

ps...Denver is hardly last to get new channels with Comcast...move out to the Bay Area and you'll feel even worse :rolleyes:

Comcast is restructuring our HD tiers like they did in Detroit effective 2/28. Is that a sign that new channels may be coming soon?

In Detroit, was the restructuring announced before or after they added the new channels?

I heard that there was a deal that was close. Hopefully comcast will add it before the football season starts.

They play football in the Big 11? :)

Don't you mean you "hope they add it before the END of basketball season?". I sure don't want to wait until September!

Comcast is restructuring our HD tiers like they did in Detroit effective 2/28. Is that a sign that new channels may be coming soon?

In Detroit, was the restructuring announced before or after they added the new channels?

What HD tier restructuring?
I wish they would do something like that here, grouping the premiums together.

What HD tier restructuring?
I wish they would do something like that here, grouping the premiums together.

NOT channel re-numbering, HD tier restructuring.... changing what channels are available in the different packages.

Comcast is restructuring our HD tiers like they did in Detroit effective 2/28. Is that a sign that new channels may be coming soon?

In Detroit, was the restructuring announced before or after they added the new channels?
Where did you read this?
Exactly which channels are moving to which services?
Maybe they are simply moving all of the HD in Digital Classic to Expd.

QZ1-

I posted the information that sansri is referring to on Broadband Reports last night. Basically the following channels will be moving from Digital Classic to Expanded Service on select NJ systems on February 28:

200- CSN Philadelphia HD (not available at all in Monmouth County, Union, Plainfield and the Meadowlands)
201- HD Special Events/CN8
202- ESPN HD
203- ESPN 2 HD
204- TNT HD
205- HD Theater
206- MOJO HD
207- Versus/Golf HD
208- Universal HD
209- MHD
212- Yes Network HD
220- TBS HD

The only HD channel that will require a Digital Classic subscription after February 28 is National Geographic HD.

Does that mean we won't need digital programming to get those?

QZ1-

I posted the information that sansri is referring to on Broadband Reports last night. Basically the following channels will be moving from Digital Classic to Expanded Service on select NJ systems on February 28:

The only HD channel that will require a Digital Classic subscription after February 28 is National Geographic HD.
You have less HD than we have, and we are missing the last 7 Digital Classic HD channels.:)

Any word on PA Comcast systems?

This is good news for those with HD non-DVRs Boxes or HD Tivos. I am waiting for the S4. So, for those of us with Comcast DVRs, we are required to keep Digital Classic, unless they are changing that pre-requisite, also; they didn't in Detroit, IIRC.

Actually, I can think another benefit. If one has a second HD non-DVR Box, one can reduce the A/O fee.

Does that mean we won't need digital programming to get those?
As in Digital service? Techincally, yes, you will need Digital Starter, but that is just Standard with a Box. The change is you won't need extra cost Digital Classic, anymore.

Been waiting in Morgantown for rollout of OnDemand. last night I get home and see at least 40 new channels added in the 900's for OnDemand use. Unfortunately none of them work yet.

But the funny thing about Comcast in Morgantown is that they have the most wacked out numbering system you can imagine. I'm sure they will soon renumber the channels but for now it's a navigation PITA. I've got about 20 HD channels in the 700's, then I got some new stuff in the 800's that I have no clue what it is, and then I have a bunch of new OnDemend channels in the 900's. The rest of the HD channels (10-12) are located in the 180-199 range. I still have my HBO suite from 201-208, then I have the new Fox Business channel and a couple others in the 200's which is usually reserved in my area for premium movies channels.

I wish they would hurry up and restructure the channel lineup and turn on Ondemand.

You have less HD than we have, and we are missing the last 7 Digital Classic HD channels.:)

Any word on PA Comcast systems?


if you missed earlier, we are getting a&e, hgtv, food, discovery, usa, history, sci fi and tbs in central pa on or shortly after 2/14. If you are referring to anything beyond that I don't think anything's been announced. I'm hoping for cnn before we get too deep into the election.

How about philly?

if you missed earlier, we are getting a&e, hgtv, food, discovery, usa, history, sci fi and tbs in central pa on or shortly after 2/14. If you are referring to anything beyond that I don't think anything's been announced. I'm hoping for cnn before we get too deep into the election.

Well, that's good news. I hope they roll it out to Harrisburg, because I am really annoyed at my lack of HD channels right now and am planning on using my tax break to install DirecTV.

Of course, that only means my DVR will be busting at the seams. With all the new HD content, you would think Comcast might want to release a DVR that will record more than 20 hours of HD content (unless I missed the news and there is one).

Comcast just added local station WCIU HD today on channel 183 in the Chicago area; however, there is still no Animal Planet HD & NHL Network HD.

Well, that's good news. I hope they roll it out to Harrisburg, because I am really annoyed at my lack of HD channels right now and am planning on using my tax break to install DirecTV.

Of course, that only means my DVR will be busting at the seams. With all the new HD content, you would think Comcast might want to release a DVR that will record more than 20 hours of HD content (unless I missed the news and there is one).

MPEG4 HD takes up much less space that MPEG2 HD ;)

Just found out that AT&T U-verse is already being added to the Chicago area, particularly the northern suburbs, to compete with Comcast. They have over 40 HD channels including the ones Comcast doesn't carry-Big Ten Network, Science Channel, Starz Kids & Family, Animal Planet, etc. I might switch to them once its arrives in my area if Comcast doesn't add more HD channels.

Well, that's good news. I hope they roll it out to Harrisburg, because I am really annoyed at my lack of HD channels right now and am planning on using my tax break to install DirecTV.

Of course, that only means my DVR will be busting at the seams. With all the new HD content, you would think Comcast might want to release a DVR that will record more than 20 hours of HD content (unless I missed the news and there is one).

yeah, harrisburg is included. apparently it's most of central pa from lancaster/lebanon/reading/harrisburg up through state college and williamsport areas. a couple of channels are being moved from analog to digital on the 14th. Word is the HD channels should come shortly after that, not necessarily on the 14th even though that date was advertised by comcast in the Reading Eagle. Just have to wait and see I guess.

Just found out that AT&T U-verse is already being added to the Chicago area, particularly the northern suburbs, to compete with Comcast. They have over 40 HD channels including the ones Comcast doesn't carry-Big Ten Network, Science Channel, Starz Kids & Family, Animal Planet, etc. I might switch to them once its arrives in my area if Comcast doesn't add more HD channels.

Also remember that there are HD channels that Comcast carries that U-verse does not, especially Comcast SportsnetHD. The lack of that channel is a deal breaker for me.

yeah, harrisburg is included. apparently it's most of central pa from lancaster/lebanon/reading/harrisburg up through state college and williamsport areas. a couple of channels are being moved from analog to digital on the 14th. Word is the HD channels should come shortly after that, not necessarily on the 14th even though that date was advertised by comcast in the Reading Eagle. Just have to wait and see I guess.

Also, no word on FX, huh? That would be great and would be the last channel I actually cared about (outside of USA, Discovery, History, and SciFi that you mentioned we'll be getting).

no word on FX. It's not in the list at the beginning of the thread either, so I don't know that anyone on comcast has it.

if you missed earlier, we are getting a&e, hgtv, food, discovery, usa, history, sci fi and tbs in central pa on or shortly after 2/14. If you are referring to anything beyond that I don't think anything's been announced. I'm hoping for cnn before we get too deep into the election.
I was referring to these HD channels for Digital Classic, that we don't have, and haven't been announced for SE PA, yet.

Sci-Fi HD
Animal Planet HD
Discovery HD
The Learning Channel HD
USA Network HD
The History Channel HD
CNN HD

So, you have three less than us, but soon will have four more than us. Maybe we will get some more channels soon, as well.

Any news on FBC HD and CNBC HD being added to Comcast?

I was told by a Comcast supervisor this week that South Jersey will be adding more HD channels during January and February. I guess they can say anything whether true or not if they don't provide specifics.

Well, January has come and gone and there are no new HD channels here. Even the supervisors at Comcast are liars.

I had gotten a pamphlet mentioning some new channels for January. Can't trust their mailings either.

Well, January has come and gone and there are no new HD channels here. Even the supervisors at Comcast are liars.

I've sent out an email to another person in Comcast NJ. Check your PM's, I sent you the email addy.

We haven't had any new ones in three months.

I know CSN-HD is likely around the corner,and I know they will hAVE to add WBPX-HD as well. I assume they will not be the only 2 in the next year.

QZ1-

I posted the information that sansri is referring to on Broadband Reports last night. Basically the following channels will be moving from Digital Classic to Expanded Service on select NJ systems on February 28:
Was this reported in a newspaper article?

Did Comcast send out a notice to customers about this?
I am thinking they didn't, but maybe.

We got the Prices/Services Card in Dec.; and in Jan., we were supposed to get the Channels/Services Card, but we didn't.
Maybe, they delayed the latter, in order to include these changes here, as well.

Was this reported in a newspaper article?

Did Comcast send out a notice to customers about this?
I am thinking they didn't, but maybe.

We got the Prices/Services Card in Dec.; and in Jan., we were supposed to get the Channels/Services Card, but we didn't.
Maybe, they delayed the latter, in order to include these changes here, as well.

Yes, in a newspaper advertisement in the Star Ledger. They always announce channel changes and stuff in the paper. Depending on the type of change, they need only 24 hours notice or 30 days notice.

Channel additions--minimum 24 hours notice
Channel deletions--I believe 30 days notice
Tier changes--30 days notice (includes analog channels moving to digital I believe too)

I was referring to these HD channels for Digital Classic, that we don't have, and haven't been announced for SE PA, yet.

Sci-Fi HD
Animal Planet HD
Discovery HD
The Learning Channel HD
USA Network HD
The History Channel HD
CNN HD

So, you have three less than us, but soon will have four more than us. Maybe we will get some more channels soon, as well.

Correct me if I am wrong but isn't HDT what used to be Discovery HD?

I am in Philly and waiting for all of the others you mentioned. We haven't had any additions since Sep or Oct right?

I think we're overdue for those 6 or 7 channels.

HD Theater used to be Discovery HD Theater. They renamed it so it wouldn't be confused with Discovery Channel HD.

Correct me if I am wrong but isn't HDT what used to be Discovery HD?

I am in Philly and waiting for all of the others you mentioned. We haven't had any additions since Sep or Oct right?

I think we're overdue for those 6 or 7 channels.
HD Theater used to be called Discovery HD Theater. Discovery HD is a new channel that simulcasts Discovery.

Last HD channel was ~1 Oct.

We are missing the last 8 HD channels, 7 on Digital Classic, mentioned before, and also NHL Network on the Sports & Ent. Tier.

Sounds like parts of New England will be getting Comcast SportsNet New England in HD on February 6th.

http://www.engadgethd.com/2008/02/04/comcast-sportsnet-new-england-hd-heading-to-areas-of-connecticut/

Sounds like parts of New England will be getting Comcast SportsNet New England in HD on February 6th.

http://www.engadgethd.com/2008/02/04/comcast-sportsnet-new-england-hd-heading-to-areas-of-connecticut/

They already get the HD games shared on Mojo. Unless the network is going to be launching more original HD programming, it would be a waste of a QAM slot.

What is really pathetic about crapcast is that they have had 3 years to get ready for what D* has done with HD. It really sickens me that the largest cable company on earth has allowed a third rate sat company to kick there ass in HD. Crapcast should have had there network ready for 150 national channels two years ago. They just don't get it and I am not waiting any longer.

See Ya.
hello D*

Seeya! :wave: I hope it works out for you.

What is really pathetic about crapcast is that they have had 3 years to get ready for what D* has done with HD. It really sickens me that the largest cable company on earth has allowed a third rate sat company to kick there ass in HD. Crapcast should have had there network ready for 150 national channels two years ago. They just don't get it and I am not waiting any longer.

See Ya.
hello D*

Goodbye and good luck. Call us when that promotion runs out in 6 months and you have another 18 months under contract.

Its very easy for D* to launch another satillite to give their customers more HD channels then it is for Comcast to change their existing system to provide more HD channels. Most of the channels that D* have are either not full time or upconverted channels. Not exactly what I would be looking for. Plus Comcast in New England just launched Comcast SportsNet in HD which D* will not have. Comcast is also offering more VOD HD from Viacom networks (MTV, CBS, etc.) so realisticly, Comcast does have more HD offerings then D*. Its not just slick marketing, its reality.

Comcast SportsNet New England has been launched in HD on channel 852 for probably most of the towns/cities in New England. Supposedly both Boston Celtics home and away games will be in HD starting tonight (previously only home games were in HD and that was on Mojo). Rumor has it that there will be more HD content on the channel as well.

For Celtics fans, this is big.

Plus Comcast in New England just launched Comcast SportsNet in HD which D* will not have.

D* offers all HD content from CSN NE on 620-1, currently its a Game Time Only channel so only Celtics games and the FSN games that CSN picks up airs there. Watching schedules, I haven't seen the GTO channel miss an HD broadcast.

D* offers all HD content from CSN NE on 620-1, currently its a Game Time Only channel so only Celtics games and the FSN games that CSN picks up airs there. Watching schedules, I haven't seen the GTO channel miss an HD broadcast.

Since the Celtics away games previous to today were not broadcast in HD, I cannot see how D* can show it in HD unless they are upconverting the SD channel.

Since the Celtics away games previous to today were not broadcast in HD, I cannot see how D* can show it in HD unless they are upconverting the SD channel.

They have never shown any away games in HD because they have not been produced in HD, they only show on the SD channel if it is an SD only broadcast. the D* channel for CSN NE HD shows HD content when CSN NE has it available, otherwise its guide data is TBA and the channel is just blank.

It will have any live game HD content that CSN NE shows and possibly go to a full time channel, like the other HD CSNs and larger HD RSNs that are on 24x7

Comcast keep running ads that it has more HD channels than satellite & if so then where are the following: Science Channel, Cartoon Network, Biography, FX, Starz channels (Edge, Comedy, Kids & Family), MGM, NHL Network, NBA, Nickelodeon, Smithsonian, HD Net, Fox Business, Travel Channel,etc ? They run these ads to keep customers from switching & it's not working at all. Right now nobody doesn't care about VOD, customers want more linear channels!

Comcast does not say it has more HD channels, it says it has more HD "choices". They use VOD as a way to make that claim. You and I may not be enamored with VOD, but Comcast either sees most of their customers acting differently, or has such a large barrier to make all (or most?) of its systems capable of adding these channels that VOD is the best that it can do. I've seen nothing that says these ads aren't keeping customers from switching to satellite - or more importantly that the turnover has changed since the satellite co's have increased their HD offerings a lot.

With my QAM TV in my location, I can watch the On Demand channels - these are movies or shows other people are actually watching, but show up on my digital channels. I typically scan through these most evenings, just to see what's on ;). The overwhelming majority (80 - 90%) of these VOD selections are in SD. There may not be enough folks clamoring for these additional channels for Comcast to really care about what we think.

If the only place you've complained is on this forum, you're not doing enough. You need to be calling Comcast and letting them know - if they don't hear from you, they won't move any faster to add more channels.

The overwhelming majority (80 - 90%) of these VOD selections are in SD.

At least in my area, I'd say that 80-90% of the VOD offerings are SD, so I wouldn't call your numbers evidence for a lack of demand for HD content, just a random sampling from what's available (unless there's a lot more HD VOD where you are).

Comcast does not say it has more HD channels, it says it has more HD "choices". They use VOD as a way to make that claim. You and I may not be enamored with VOD, but Comcast either sees most of their customers acting differently, or has such a large barrier to make all (or most?) of its systems capable of adding these channels that VOD is the best that it can do. I've seen nothing that says these ads aren't keeping customers from switching to satellite - or more importantly that the turnover has changed since the satellite co's have increased their HD offerings a lot.

With my QAM TV in my location, I can watch the On Demand channels - these are movies or shows other people are actually watching, but show up on my digital channels. I typically scan through these most evenings, just to see what's on ;). The overwhelming majority (80 - 90%) of these VOD selections are in SD. There may not be enough folks clamoring for these additional channels for Comcast to really care about what we think.

If the only place you've complained is on this forum, you're not doing enough. You need to be calling Comcast and letting them know - if they don't hear from you, they won't move any faster to add more channels.


I complained to Comcast several times about when are they going to add more HD channels & everytime I always get no feedback or the customer service rep don't have the info. I stop contacting them because I am just wasting my time & energy.

Comcast keep running ads that it has more HD channels than satellite & if so then where are the following: Science Channel, Cartoon Network, Biography, FX, Starz channels (Edge, Comedy, Kids & Family), MGM, NHL Network, NBA, Nickelodeon, Smithsonian, HD Net, Fox Business, Travel Channel,etc ? They run these ads to keep customers from switching & it's not working at all. Right now nobody doesn't care about VOD, customers want more linear channels!

I read on one of these forums that there was an interview with Comcast's CEO who actually bragged about the number of HD choices being 3 times that of D* and E*. I tend to agree with the other posters who state that Comcast is trending towards VOD to provide HD content to its subscribers rather than the OTS HD channels; however, I agree with you, I would prefer the OTS HD channels instead of VOD and have told my local Comcast manager. It fell on deaf ears, however, because our system is considered one of the smaller Comcast systems and does not rate much in the way of attention.

...or more importantly that the turnover has changed since the satellite co's have increased their HD offerings a lot.

Take a look at stock prices. DirecTV's is soaring, Comcast's is in the toilet.:)

I read on one of these forums that there was an interview with Comcast's CEO who actually bragged about the number of HD choices being 3 times that of D* and E*. I tend to agree with the other posters who state that Comcast is trending towards VOD to provide HD content to its subscribers rather than the OTS HD channels; however, I agree with you, I would prefer the OTS HD channels instead of VOD and have told my local Comcast manager. It fell on deaf ears, however, because our system is considered one of the smaller Comcast systems and does not rate much in the way of attention.

You guys got new HD channels:

191 -Discovery HD
192 - TLC HD
212 - History Channel HD
213 - CNN HD
237 - KSMO HD

At least according to a poster on DSLreports from Olathe. We still haven't seen anything since October (NGC, NFL, TBS).

You guys got new HD channels:

191 -Discovery HD
192 - TLC HD
212 - History Channel HD
213 - CNN HD
237 - KSMO HD

At least according to a poster on DSLreports from Olathe. We still haven't seen anything since October (NGC, NFL, TBS).

Amen. Same here in Denver. Not like we all the available HD channels except for 1 or 2 and are complaining... I am still holding out hope for SciFi-HD before BSG starts!

So what has happened to the HDnet negotiations? Lost cause?

Amen. Same here in Denver. Not like we all the available HD channels except for 1 or 2 and are complaining... I am still holding out hope for SciFi-HD before BSG starts!

Exactly.

BTW, according to the tech that came to my place yesterday, North NJ is going to be all digital by the end of this year and is looking to add tons of HD by the end of the year.

Whatever that means....I won't trust that word until I see additions...

The HD Sci-Fi channel has arrived in Knoxville, TN. Perhaps I missed an announcement, but I did not see anything from Comcast telling us that it was being added--it is simply there now. I am pleased because this is one I really wanted.

Take a look at stock prices. DirecTV's is soaring, Comcast's is in the toilet.:) The toilet's not a bad description for Comcast, but DirecTV is no real winner - it's been at about the same level for a year. What I've read about Comcast's stock does not make me think it's falling because HD customers are leaving. Don't get me wrong - I do not like the lack of HD channels on Comcast relative to the satellites. But I don't see them changing their strategy as a result of this difference. Part of my earlier post was a (very small) example of why I think Comcast isn't in a rush to lead the way with HD channels - their "average" customer doesn't care (yet). The quote below is from the Motley Fool on October 29, after Comcast's analyst call:

High-def services are a major growth opportunity for the cable industry today, but Brian said that it "continues to be a minority of television in this country by the vast proportion." That's why Comcast isn't too worried about DirecTV and others bragging on their HD station count. The company is converting analog channels with low viewership into high-def stations, one by one.

To those of you who responded to my suggestion to call Comcast, you're right, the CSR's typically know nothing. But, unless you actually switch to D* or E*, it's the only way they're going to know how their customers feel. The more calls, the more they might think it's time to change strategies.

Hello everyone. I haven't seen this posted, if it has, I apologize.


This morning I noticed I received new messages via my Comcast Cable Box. I check it, and it's basically a preview of the upcoming WWE PPV. Yada yada, but at the very end of the paragraph I find something that fills me with glee.

According to the message, the PPV will be offered in HD on channels 230 and 510. I'm gonna guess that means they're going to add the HD PPV channels by at least Feb. 17th (the date of the PPV) if not sooner.

I reside in Central NJ, if that makes a difference or not.

I got the message too about the HDPPV on 230. I thought it said HD on 230, SD on 501. Maybe I read it too quickly.

I'm in Northern NJ. Maybe a sign that new channels are close...Will look in the paper much closer today and in the next week or so and see if there's any announcements.

The HD Sci-Fi channel has arrived in Knoxville, TN. Perhaps I missed an announcement, but I did not see anything from Comcast telling us that it was being added--it is simply there now. I am pleased because this is one I really wanted.

If they make an announcement, it will probably be done a week or so after those are available. In Knoxville, we got:

Sci-Fi HD
Animal Planet HD
History HD
Discovery HD

And I'm drawing a blank on the other one, or maybe that's all. I've been sick all week and disappointed there is no Speed TV HD.

BTW, according to the tech that came to my place yesterday, North NJ is going to be all digital by the end of this year and is looking to add tons of HD by the end of the year.

Whatever that means....I won't trust that word until I see additions...
I doubt they will go all-Digital, probably Expd. Basic in Digital, and leave Ltd. Basic simulcasted, like Chicago. But, then the area will have capacity for many linear HD channels.

If they make an announcement, it will probably be done a week or so after those are available. In Knoxville, we got:

Sci-Fi HD
Animal Planet HD
History HD
Discovery HD

And I'm drawing a blank on the other one, or maybe that's all. I've been sick all week and disappointed there is no Speed TV HD.


I don't think any Comcast system has Speed HD yet. Just looked at the Comcast channels listing online for Knoxville & they are not showing these channels yet. Did the Oak Ridge area add these channels too?

I have a place in Fairfield Glade & Comcast there just upgraded their system & added HD. I'm curious if they added these channels there too. They seem to have the identical system to Oak Ridge, which is upsetting some of the residents there. FFG is Central time, but the guide is Eastern and the Weather channel is now showing Oak Ridge weather, which is off the Plateau and completely different.

I don't think any Comcast system has Speed HD yet. Just looked at the Comcast channels listing online for Knoxville & they are not showing these channels yet. Did the Oak Ridge area add these channels too?

I have a place in Fairfield Glade & Comcast there just upgraded their system & added HD. I'm curious if they added these channels there too. They seem to have the identical system to Oak Ridge, which is upsetting some of the residents there. FFG is Central time, but the guide is Eastern and the Weather channel is now showing Oak Ridge weather, which is off the Plateau and completely different.

D* is currently the only provider with Speed HD, it will be March 1st at the earliest before Speed HD is available to other providers

Amen. Same here in Denver. Not like we all the available HD channels except for 1 or 2 and are complaining... I am still holding out hope for SciFi-HD before BSG starts!

I've given up hope...nothing like watching the first run of a great scifi series in SD while others watch in HD! Besides vinyl sounds better anyway.

Exactly.

BTW, according to the tech that came to my place yesterday, North NJ is going to be all digital by the end of this year and is looking to add tons of HD by the end of the year.

Whatever that means....I won't trust that word until I see additions...

We got a message on our monthly bills here in Minnesota stating that "dozens" more HD channels would be added this year (beyond what is listed in the first post of this thread --- we already had those when we got the message).

To those of you who responded to my suggestion to call Comcast, you're right, the CSR's typically know nothing. But, unless you actually switch to D* or E*, it's the only way they're going to know how their customers feel. The more calls, the more they might think it's time to change strategies.

You can also email Rick Germano, Senior Vice President of Customer Operations.

http://www.comcast.com/Corporate/Customers/Contactus/Contactus.html?lid=2CustomersContactus&pos=Nav (right side of page) Might be a little more effective.

I asked why we didn't get three channels we were supposed to get in January as advertised in a mailing. Someone from the corporate office called and left a message saying they would be added in March. (Of course they declined to answer why they didn't deliver what they advertised.)

Whatever the reason may be, I don't mind if they're late delivering the channels as long as they give an update like they did in your case. It's much better than keeping everything secret like they have in the past.

How come Animal Planet HD have been added to other markets & not in Chicago? Didn't Chicago went all 'digital' last summer when they moved close to 40 analog channels & place them to digital? Also, what about other channels that need to be added like Science Channel, FX, Cartoon Network, MGM, etc?

Comcast SportsNet New England has been launched in HD on channel 852 for probably most of the towns/cities in New England. Supposedly both Boston Celtics home and away games will be in HD starting tonight (previously only home games were in HD and that was on Mojo). Rumor has it that there will be more HD content on the channel as well.

For Celtics fans, this is big.

I understand the logic behind Comcast making CSN-NE their newest HD offering in New England: the Celtics are making a run at it this season, and fans will want to watch in HD. Still, I wish we'd gotten Sci Fi HD or FX HD, too.

I mean hell, just get rid of Mojo altogether. Does anybody watch that channel?

I mean hell, just get rid of Mojo altogether. Does anybody watch that channel?I watch Three Sheets and I Bet You...

MOJO's also got some NBA games, but still, I can't imagine that many people wouldn't trade it for FX or something else in a heartbeat.

I mean hell, just get rid of Mojo altogether. Does anybody watch that channel?

Actually, Mojo is one of the channels rumored to be uplinked on E* this week

I mean hell, just get rid of Mojo altogether. Does anybody watch that channel?

I watch MOJO a a whole lot more than the Strecth-O-Vision and Promo Pop-Up/Bug Infested movies that are on TNT HD.

London Live on MOJO has introduced me to new bands I've grown to like a lot, such as Editors (who I see live tonight in San Francisco) and Howling Bells (not yet released in the US, but critic faves in the UK); for that program alone the channel is essential to me. But most of the rest of MOJO's programming is garbage, and I dislike their focus on the lifestyles of the rich and vacuous.

Actually, Mojo is one of the channels rumored to be uplinked on E* this week

INHD was uplinked at one point...

MOJO is the only way for me to watch the Nuggets (home games) in HD...and a few shows are worth watching.

But Mojo isn't actually showing the basketball games, is it? They're just cutting into the Mojo feed to simulcast from another network.

I don't know. All of the shows on that station just seem so uninteresting to me. It was the same when it was INHD.

I mean hell, just get rid of Mojo altogether. Does anybody watch that channel?

Yes; I do.:rolleyes:

But Mojo isn't actually showing the basketball games, is it? They're just cutting into the Mojo feed to simulcast from another network.

Mojo simulcasts (many) NBA TV HD games but they are on Mojo's schedule. They dont pre-empt other programming.

http://mojohd.com/schedule/index.jsf

In certain areas Comcast does pre-empt Mojo programming to show an RSN's games. In Baltimore Comcast SportsNet HD is a full-time channel so there's no need to do that.

For us Comcast pre-empts Mojo programming for FSN-NY games.

In Baltimore Comcast SportsNet HD is a full-time channel so there's no need to do that.

MASN is showing 30 Orioles games and 30 Nationals games in HD this year, so I would imagine Comcast will use MOJO for these in our region. I also think that the low number of HD games is so they can convince cable companies to show them like this instead of starting up an entire HD channel right away.

We all know here how difficult it is to get Comcast to commit to carrying a new HD channel!

MASN is showing 30 Orioles games and 30 Nationals games in HD this year, so I would imagine Comcast will use MOJO for these in our region. I also think that the low number of HD games is so they can convince cable companies to show them like this instead of starting up an entire HD channel right away.

We all know here how difficult it is to get Comcast to commit to carrying a new HD channel!

AT LEAST 30 games each, maybe more.

We all know here how difficult it is to get Comcast to commit to carrying a new HD channel!

You're right! They won't even carry the ones they committed to and advertise that they have. (CNN-HD & History-HD).

if you missed earlier, we are getting a&e, hgtv, food, discovery, usa, history, sci fi and tbs in central pa on or shortly after 2/14. If you are referring to anything beyond that I don't think anything's been announced. I'm hoping for cnn before we get too deep into the election.

Confirmed today when I was at local Comcast office a&e,hgtv,food,discovery,usa,tlc,sci-fi and tbs for Hanover,Pa York,PA and McSherrystown,PA

AT LEAST 30 games each, maybe more.

The problem is that since they carry two teams, if they get an opportunity to carry an extra HD game or two from team "x", the fans of team "y" will cry and moan, saying that MASN is biased towards that particular team.

I'm not expecting anything extra.

The problem is that since they carry two teams, if they get an opportunity to carry an extra HD game or two from team "x", the fans of team "y" will cry and moan, saying that MASN is biased towards that particular team.

I'm not expecting anything extra.

They'll have enough home games for each team on the primary channel that they could show more than 30 each in HD.

Confirmed today when I was at local Comcast office a&e,hgtv,food,discovery,usa,tlc,sci-fi and tbs for Hanover,Pa York,PA and McSherrystown,PA

I have a message on my DVR (Harrisburg, PA) that they are coming the week of the 17th.

I am still thinking of switching to DirecTV, since there's still no History or FX and the DVR will actually hold more than a pathetic 15-20 hours of HD that Comcast's does.

The first two episodes of LOST season 4 and the recap episode are available in HD On Demand in Chicagoland.

I have a message on my DVR (Harrisburg, PA) that they are coming the week of the 17th.

How do you check/receive messages on your DVR? I'm in the York (old SUSCOM) system and have a Comcast DVR but have never seen message. Thanks!

The first two episodes of LOST season 4 and the recap episode are available in HD On Demand in Chicagoland.

I'll just add to my post... I watched about 10 minutes and the PQ is not near the original broadcast + there are commercials by Disney (ABC).

How do you check/receive messages on your DVR? I'm in the York (old SUSCOM) system and have a Comcast DVR but have never seen message. Thanks!

Motorola boxes have messaging capability. Scientific Atlanta boxes do not.

Motorola boxes have messaging capability. Scientific Atlanta boxes do not.

Thanks, explains that one!

Maxman do you work for Comcast? I am all so in south Jersey Zip 08060 and I am not happy with the HD channels line up So few. I would think by this time I would have many more channels. They keep taken channels out of the channel line up and say they need to do this to make room for more HD channels. So Comcast when am I going to see more channels? I am looking in making a switch to Satellite TV because they have more HD channels and it will cost me Just about the same if not less.

The only problem in southern New Jersey if you're a sports fan is that Comcast SportsNet is not carried by any satellite company. Without CSN and CN8, you can't see most Flyers, Philles, and 76ers games.

Maxman do you work for Comcast?

No, but if I did I'd be ashamed to admit it.

That is one reason I have not made a switch. But I do go to lot of the games throughout the year and I am thinking I could live with out CSN and CN8.
I just want to get the most out of my feed and the best price Comcast is loosing out at this point. I come from a family of six and I am the last one with Comcast. Most of my street has gone with Satellite this year.

No, but if I did I'd be ashamed to admit it.

I know what you Mean:D

The first two episodes of LOST season 4 and the recap episode are available in HD On Demand in Chicagoland.









I live in Chicago & still don't have Animal Planet, Science Channel, FX, MGM, NHL HD, NBA HD, Weather Channel, Cartoon Network, Biography, etc. Comcast can take video on demand & shove it!

I live in Chicago & still don't have Animal Planet, Science Channel, FX, MGM, NHL HD, NBA HD, Weather Channel, Cartoon Network, Biography, etc. Comcast can take video on demand & shove it!

We KNOW that you don't have Animal Planet and that you WANT it - about half of your 53 total posts have been asking about it.

If somewhere here knows anything about its ETA, they will post it here. Asking about it evey couple of days accomplishes nothing. There are a LOT of people following this thread. Many of us check it everytime something new is posted. Please try to not post the same thing over and over. Thanks.

I didn't see the below post previously...

Associated Press
Article Last Updated: 01/07/2008 09:20:09 PM CST

PHILADELPHIA - Cable companies aren't known as nimble innovators, but Comcast Corp. is out to change that perception this year with ultra-high-speed Internet service, more high-definition content and gadgets that link video, phone and broadband services.

"We're about innovation and having the best network," Chief Executive Brian Roberts said in a preview of his speech at the Consumer Electronics show in Las Vegas today.

Roberts is expected to demonstrate a technology that delivers up to 160 megabits of data per second: It will allow him to download a high-definition copy of "Batman Begins" in four minutes. The technology, DOCSIS 3.0, will start rolling out this year.

"If it's as successful as we hope, in 2009 and beyond we will have it available in millions of homes," he said.

Roberts hopes the speed-up will boost growth of Comcast's broadband service, which has been slowing.

Cable systems largely enable download speeds up to 10 Mbps - compared with up to 50 Mbps from Verizon's fiber-optic service FiOS.

"Cable looks like it will be able to keep up with the Joneses, thank you very much," Craig Moffett, senior analyst at Sanford Bernstein in New York, said of the new technology.

Comcast is the largest cable company in the nation.

Roberts said Comcast plans to offer more than 1,000 high-definition videos this year, including up to 300 movies on demand that may be free or included in a subscription or a pay-per-view service.
That's a salvo aimed at DirecTV Group Inc. in their race to amass high-definition content. Philadelphia-based Comcast and El Segundo, Calif.-based DirecTV settled a lawsuit last month over which has better quality HD.

Roberts said Comcast will be creating "superservers" to store the extra video-on-demand content and supplement those in the neighborhood that move shows and movies to customers' cable boxes.

When a customer wants to watch a show that's not stored in the regional server, the computer will dial into the national server to access the content and bring it to the home, Roberts said.

These national servers will enable Comcast to offer 6,000 movies on demand - 3,000 of them in high-definition - without requiring customers to get a new cable box.

Moreover, Roberts said the cable system is a "secure, licensed world" that should reassure movie studios that their content won't be easily pilfered.

To supplement its horde of movies and TV shows, Comcast plans today to officially launch its Fancast Web site, which has full TV episodes for old and new shows as well as some movies.

The site also incorporates Fandango, the movie-ticket purchase portal, which Comcast bought last year.

Within months, Comcast subscribers will be able to check TV listings on the Fancast site and have the digital video recorder attached to their TV record a show.

Roberts also said Comcast's Tivo service has been launched in New England and he expects wider deployment soon after. Tivo will be available as an add-on service for a fee Comcast will share with Tivo Inc.

In voice, Comcast is rolling out a caller-ID service that pops up on TVs and computers of customers who buy its video, Internet and phone package.

And, with VTech, Comcast is developing a cordless phone with a mini-screen where users can access e-mail.

The phone, now in testing, also will offer viewable voice mail like Apple Inc.'s iPhone does.

We KNOW that you don't have Animal Planet and that you WANT it - about half of your 53 total posts have been asking about it.

If somewhere here knows anything about its ETA, they will post it here. Asking about it evey couple of days accomplishes nothing. There are a LOT of people following this thread. Many of us check it everytime something new is posted. Please try to not post the same thing over and over. Thanks.



AMEN! This forum is not intended for emotaposting.

We KNOW that you don't have Animal Planet and that you WANT it - about half of your 53 total posts have been asking about it.

If somewhere here knows anything about its ETA, they will post it here. Asking about it evey couple of days accomplishes nothing. There are a LOT of people following this thread. Many of us check it everytime something new is posted. Please try to not post the same thing over and over. Thanks.




You like wasting your time counting the number of posts that everyone puts on this site! Anyone that doesn't like my opinions or issues don't read them at all. Thank you.

You like wasting your time counting the number of posts that everyone puts on this site! Anyone that doesn't like my opinions or issues don't read them at all. Thank you.

How mighty inconsiderate of you. Thanks.

:rolleyes:

Lol

You like wasting your time counting the number of posts that everyone puts on this site! Anyone that doesn't like my opinions or issues don't read them at all. Thank you.
There's no need to be rude -- it was a polite and reasonable request. I highly doubt it's anything against you personally, no need to lash back as though it were. And just so you know, your post total is listed right underneath your name. As if blitzen102 has nothing better to do than count your (or anyone's!) posts... :)

In some areas, people are reporting that Comcast reduced the quality of several existing HD channels to "HDTV Lite" when new channels were added.

More specifically, some Comcast subscribers-- including those in Chicago -- are reporting that SciFi/Discovery/USA, HGTV/Starz/A&E, Food/NatGeo/UHD, and TLC/HBO/Cinemax all share a QAM channel. They report less detail, with stutter and more macroblocking during movement.

I'm curious whether Comcast is doing this on all systems, or just some older 750MHz systems. If you've received the new Comcast channels, were three squeezed into a QAM? To test, check SciFi/Discovery/USA and see if all three reside on the same QAM channel.

It will be unfortunate if full-quality HD on Comcast is coming to an end.

There's no need to be rude -- it was a polite and reasonable request. I highly doubt it's anything against you personally, no need to lash back as though it were. And just so you know, your post total is listed right underneath your name. As if blitzen102 has nothing better to do than count your (or anyone's!) posts... :)

And the fact that he has gone over to DirecTV because Comcast didn't have the channels he's interested in just shows that he is trolling over in this thread.

In some areas, people are reporting that Comcast reduced the quality of several existing HD channels to "HDTV Lite" when new channels were added.

More specifically, some Comcast subscribers-- including those in Chicago -- are reporting that SciFi/Discovery/USA, HGTV/Starz/A&E, Food/NatGeo/UHD, and TLC/HBO/Cinemax all share a QAM channel. They report less detail, with stutter and more macroblocking during movement.

I'm curious whether Comcast is doing this on all systems, or just some older 750MHz systems. If you've received the new Comcast channels, were three squeezed into a QAM? To test, check SciFi/Discovery/USA and see if all three reside on the same QAM channel.

It will be unfortunate if full-quality HD on Comcast is coming to an end.

IN Boston,HBO, Showtime AND Starz are ALL on ONE channel.
Our latest HD is CSN-NE on its own QAM. Looks like Sci Fi and Animal planet may be next.

I'm curious whether Comcast is doing this on all systems, or just some older 750MHz systems. If you've received the new Comcast channels, were three squeezed into a QAM? To test, check SciFi/Discovery/USA and see if all three reside on the same QAM channel.


How do you do that test (in general)?

Through the diagnostics. First tune to the channel. Then hit the Cable button (if it's not already selected), then Power, and then press OK (within 2 seconds of hitting Power). Scroll down to "Current Channel Status" and hit OK. To check another channel, you have to turn the box back on and change the channel, then go through it all again (hit power a few times to get out of the diagnostics and turn the box back on).

Through the diagnostics. First tune to the channel. Then hit the Cable button (if it's not already selected), then Power, and then press OK (within 2 seconds of hitting Power). Scroll down to "Current Channel Status" and hit OK. To check another channel, you have to turn the box back on and change the channel, then go through it all again (hit power a few times to get out of the diagnostics and turn the box back on).

And which box are you doing this on?

And which box are you doing this on?

Motorolas.

In some areas, people are reporting that Comcast reduced the quality of several existing HD channels to "HDTV Lite" when new channels were added.

I am in South New Jersey and the Quality of HD has gone way Down. I all most watch my HD in over the air because it is a night and day Difference.


I'm curious whether Comcast is doing this on all systems, or just some older 750MHz systems. If you've received the new Comcast channels, were three squeezed into a QAM? To test, check SciFi/Discovery/USA and see if all three reside on the same QAM channel.

How can you test this I have a scientific atlantic box


It will be unfortunate if full-quality HD on Comcast is coming to an end.

It seems like it!!

Through the diagnostics. First tune to the channel. Then hit the Cable button (if it's not already selected), then Power, and then press OK (within 2 seconds of hitting Power). Scroll down to "Current Channel Status" and hit OK. To check another channel, you have to turn the box back on and change the channel, then go through it all again (hit power a few times to get out of the diagnostics and turn the box back on).

With the DVR, page 1 shows status for tuner 1 and page 2 for tuner 2, so you can check two channels at once by doing a tuner swap before going to the diagnostics.

Nothing wrong with PQ over here in Northern NJ.

Through the diagnostics. First tune to the channel. Then hit the Cable button (if it's not already selected), then Power, and then press OK (within 2 seconds of hitting Power). Scroll down to "Current Channel Status" and hit OK. To check another channel, you have to turn the box back on and change the channel, then go through it all again (hit power a few times to get out of the diagnostics and turn the box back on).

Ah. I use a cable card, so I guess I can't make that sort of check.

We typically see messages on our cable boxes a few days AFTER the channel has been added. No bill notices, no ads in papers, and the local thread is filled with a bunch of speculators, like me. Soemtimes the CSR's will spill the beans, but you have to make a lot of phone calls for that to happen. Of course, Comcast hasn't had much to announce here since TNT was added for the baseball playoffs, and I think they worked that one in very quickly so there wasn't time for a notice.

I also live in southern metro Denver, and yeah, CrapCast hasn't added any new HD channels worth mentioning in several months now. Sure, TBS HD for the baseball playoffs was nice at the time, but TBS HD otherwise is a dreadful waste of valuable bandwidth much better used for a "real" fulltime HD channel. They added the pay NFL HD channel a couple months ago, but I couldn't possibly care any less. Beyond that, the last worthy addition I can recall was the National Geographic HD Channel, but I think that was around August 2007 or so. A&E HD showed up around the same time, but it's not worth much more than TBS HD unless they were to make proper use of the bandwidth.

It totally irks me as well that our local cable affiliate never does any kind of advance notice ANYWHERE of when we can expect new HD channels and which ones. I usually chat with a CSR about once a month to pick their brains, but they rarely have any information on much of anything. Worse yet, sometimes they make empty promises that end up being pure fiction. It's been three years now, and Denver still doesn't get The Tennis Channel. It's so pathetic, you've got to wonder if the CSR's are just paid to answer the phone and keep you calm. The last guy I spoke to was as friendly as could be and admitted that the situation was just disgraceful and that there was no way he could possibly explain the slow progress. He took copious and detailed notes on all of my comments and requests, and accurately read them back to me, although I have no idea of where any of that feedback goes, if anywhere at all. Believe me, one of my comments was the need to keep customers far better informed on dealing with the service introduction delays. It's irresponsible that Comcast hasn't put out a full page apology letter in The Denver Post regarding the utter lack of interest in customer satisfaction, but I know that would take nothing short of a miracle. I mean there's NOTHING in the bills or local newspapers about how Comcast is going to respond with HD Channel X available by this Date xx/xx/xx. Instead, some CSR's have the audacity to whine about how the trash dumpsters behind apartment complexes are filled with their inane ads for phone and Internet service, on the premise that there's anything at all of value in those dreadful junk mailings that 99% of people throw directly into the recycling bin, or worse, trash. :confused:

When those obnoxiously misleading Comcast ads touting their supposed 3 to 1 HD advantage over DirecTV air, I can't find the mute button fast enough. The first time I saw those, I had a hard time not yelling at the CSR on the other end of the phone, but I know it's not their fault. Months later, they still continue to air, a monument to Comcast's marketing department ineptitude, as surely the embarrassment to the company caused by those ads isn't worth the couple of customers ignorant enough to believe them. To compare the paltry HD On Demand offerings to actual linear HD channels is... _-INSANE-_!!!!!!!! :eek:

As for getting notified by that usually useless red message light on the front of the Motorola cable box, at least 95% of those messages are time wasters for some boxing or wrestling match. No offense to anyone who enjoys that kind of entertainment, but for me that is infuriatingly annoying SPAM. They claim they cannot weed out these ads on an address basis, which is just ridiculous. Here are some examples of what I would expect CrapCast COULD be using that potentially useful utility for:

"Coming 2/14/08 - SCI-FI HD on Channel 6XX - Just in time for Valentine's Day, enjoy the best SCI-FI available on cable, with our sincerest apologies for the inexcusable delay."

"Arriving at last in mid-March - the Discovery HD Suite, including your favorite shows on Discovery Channel HD, Science Channel HD, Animal Planet HD, and TLC HD."

"Watch the news like never before - CNN HD finally arrives on April 23rd. Feel like you're sitting in the audience at the debates!!!"

Undoubtedly, in the short term, this would require dropping some of those pesky ancient analog channels, but for crying out loud, just do it already Comcast!!!! And stop hogging valuable bandwidth with those damn jewelry and shopping channels. Do something worthwhile with that very limited bandwidth, won't you??!

As for Switched Digital Video, I remember about four months ago being told by a CSR that it was being trialed in Denver by employees only and would be available to customers in a couple of months. Really, a couple of months??? Maybe she was just tired of all the complaints and meant YEARS??!

Sure, this is a rant that will undoubtedly fall on deaf ears for those who so desperately need to hear it the most, but what else is new? Comcast is just an awful, awful company to be stuck with, and unfortunately, satellite is just not a good option for me.

And so, we wait, and wait, and wait, and wait, for channels we may never get......... :(

Why is satellite not a good option for you? But I agree, the situation with Comcast is looking grim.

Comcast is a customer of BigBand Networks, the SDV equipment manufacturer. Does anyone know why the SDV rollout is taking so long?

There's some great technical info on their website regarding SDV. None of that horrid Comcast "hide most useful information from the customers at all costs" policy here!

bigbandnet.com/index.php/sol_switch_dv.html

Sure, the devil is in the details, and none of us here are likely privy to the success or failure of the SDV service trials so far, but with direct quotes from BBN like these, it's hard not to get downright giddy, if Comcast's implicit calculated slow reaction time could be removed from the equation.

"90 Days to 100 HD Channels"
"Deploys seamlessly in a matter of weeks"
"Integrates seamlessly with all popular set-top boxes including DVRs"
"There is no noticeable delay or change during channel surfing and tuning"
"SDV is not difficult to deploy when done so by experts familiar with the technology"

Does anyone know what the holdup is for SDV? Is it in commercial operation ANYWHERE yet in the United States, or is this still unproven vaporware? The potential seems really great, so it would be wonderful if anyone could shed light on why Comcast apparently seems to be struggling so mightily with getting SDV to the masses. Does it work well or not?

Sure, we would love nothing more than to read a reliable press release from Comcast with a status update on their SDV implementation plan, but I don't think that's the way the company operates, based on past experience. Going to comcast.com and searching for "SDV" or "Switched Digital Video" yields no relevant results, as expected from their very limited customer interfacing public website.

Please, nobody violate any NDA's, but if there are answers to these questions that are public knowledge, please help Comcast customers understand why things seem to be progressing so very slowly on this project. We certainly have a right to ASK, given that the company's management has a rotten track record of keeping their PAYING audience informed about service improvement plans.

Oh, and to be fair, if I was a Comcast shareholder, which I'm not on fiduciary and moral grounds, I would be hopping mad at their anemic response to the marketplace in light of the number of HD channels already available via the satellite competitors. :mad:

Why is satellite not a good option for you? But I agree, the situation with Comcast is looking grim.

How do you figure?

With SDV, moving channels from analog to digital, upgrading their networks to 1 Gigahertz, and moving to MPEG-4 the situation is looking very good to me.

Upgrading to 1GHz? I'm still waiting for the upgrade to 860 (currently at 550 MHz). I also haven't heard anything about Comcast migrating to MPEG-4 or SDV any time soon. Oh, and I live in the town that started the PEG lawsuit mess, so I can't say that I've been thrilled with Comcast's attempts to move channels to digital (which still hasn't been resolved, by the way). Maybe it's fine in other, larger markets, but where I am, it's horrible. ESPN, ESPN2, HDT, MOJO, and MHD are the only networks available in HD, aside from the 5 locals and 4 premium channels, where I live.

Upgrading to 1GHz? I'm still waiting for the upgrade to 860 (currently at 550 MHz). I also haven't heard anything about Comcast migrating to MPEG-4 or SDV any time soon. Oh, and I live in the town that started the PEG lawsuit mess, so I can't say that I've been thrilled with Comcast's attempts to move channels to digital (which still hasn't been resolved, by the way). Maybe it's fine in other, larger markets, but where I am, it's horrible. ESPN, ESPN2, HDT, MOJO, and MHD are the only networks available in HD, aside from the 5 locals and 4 premium channels, where I live.

Your system most likely will be upgraded to 1GHz - not 860MHz.

Comcast will likely be deploying the MPEG-4 boxes in the second half of 2008 - when Motorola's new DCX boxes begin shipping.

Nothing wrong with PQ over here in Northern NJ.

Probably because they haven't added any new HD channels!

Ok I Called My Comcast in Cherry Hill New Jersey Today And Asked Them When Will I See More HD Channels. I was told no time soon so do not aks!!!!:eek:

Ok I Called My Comcast in Cherry Hill New Jersey Today And Asked Them When Will I See More HD Channels. I was told no time soon so do not aks!!!!:eek:

CSR's very rarely know. And even if they do, they often are told not to share the information with the public.

So yes, stop asking CSRs.

Animal Planet HD has been added today on channel 224 in Chicago.

Animal Planet HD has been added today on channel 224 in Chicago.

WOO-HOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1


NOBODY could be happier than ME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


:D

;)

Your system most likely will be upgraded to 1GHz - not 860MHz.

Comcast will likely be deploying the MPEG-4 boxes in the second half of 2008 - when Motorola's new DCX boxes begin shipping.

What makes you think Comcast is going to spend $$$ on new STB's when they tout the ability of SDV to integrate seamlessly with the current boxes we already have?

What makes you think Comcast is going to spend $$$ on new STB's when they tout the ability of SDV to integrate seamlessly with the current boxes we already have?

Two different upgrades here, the current boxes will do SDV fine, but can only work with MPEG2 HD signals.

To upgrade to MPEG4 compression, they would need to replace all the existing HD STBs.

If SDV could be implemented with the efficiency that has been touted, along with the bandwidth savings from MPEG4 compression, Comcast and other MSOs could once again, jump back into the capacity lead.

What makes you think Comcast is going to spend $$$ on new STB's when they tout the ability of SDV to integrate seamlessly with the current boxes we already have?

MPEG-4.

1 GHz.

I'm sure they won't do a mass switch-out all at one time. But they'll do something like....

If you want all of HBO's channels in HD (when they become HD), you'll need a new (DCX....) box.

In some areas, people are reporting that Comcast reduced the quality of several existing HD channels to "HDTV Lite" when new channels were added.

More specifically, some Comcast subscribers-- including those in Chicago -- are reporting that SciFi/Discovery/USA, HGTV/Starz/A&E, Food/NatGeo/UHD, and TLC/HBO/Cinemax all share a QAM channel. They report less detail, with stutter and more macroblocking during movement.

I'm curious whether Comcast is doing this on all systems, or just some older 750MHz systems. If you've received the new Comcast channels, were three squeezed into a QAM? To test, check SciFi/Discovery/USA and see if all three reside on the same QAM channel.

It will be unfortunate if full-quality HD on Comcast is coming to an end.

I've wondered about that myself. We got some new channels early last week. Since then, some of the others, like HGTV, have had some issues. Nothing major, but they seem to break up. If they start cutting back on the HD channel quality, I will definitely switch.

I've wondered about that myself. We got some new channels early last week. Since then, some of the others, like HGTV, have had some issues. Nothing major, but they seem to break up. If they start cutting back on the HD channel quality, I will definitely switch.

Someone correct me if I'm wrong but I've always thought that more than one HD channel (uncompressed) can fit inside one QAM channel?

Someone correct me if I'm wrong but I've always thought that more than one HD channel (uncompressed) can fit inside one QAM channel?Two HD channels fit in one QAM without extra compression.

Extra compression is required to fit three HD channels into one QAM. That's what Comcast now doing in some or all markets to make room for the new channels. They were not doing that before.

Here's video footage showing what Comcast Chicago users are seeing since the new channels were added:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nT30UW80N0I

As you can see, the picture breaks up and skips frames during intense scenes. In most cases, it is not bad, but users also report reduced quality on several of older HD channels that began when (or shortly before) the new channels were added.

Someone correct me if I'm wrong but I've always thought that more than one HD channel (uncompressed) can fit inside one QAM channel?

Using QAM 256, there is 38.8 mbps of bandwidth in a single carrier channel

sooner the better for mpeg4, unfortunately it's probably going to be years till it's completely phased in.

If SDV works as advertised, why is MPEG-4 still so important? I thought the whole point of SDV was to free up bandwidth. I understand that MPEG-4 is more efficient compression, but surely that's not the holdup for the SDV rollout, is it?

Is the 1Ghz pipe required for SDV? Again, if SDV utilizes the limited bandwidth more efficiently, what difference does that make? Slightly longer load times? Channel availability congestion? Less popular channels won't be available at all times?

What exactly is the bottleneck for SDV rollout? Lack of funding? Technical hurdles? Postponed plant investment? Really, I don't know, since Comcast isn't saying much...

anyone else in the boston area notice that Sci-Fi-HD and ALP-HD were added today? My TIVO S3 added them to my lineup but the channels are blank (this also happened when USA-HD, TBS-HD and CNN-HD were added, Tivo knew a day in advance then they became active.)

these new channels are not showing on the comcast DVR yet though...yet.

What's the channel number for SciFi-HD? 862?

Strange that the TiVo would get them first...

I really hope that your TiVo's are predicting the near future for SciFiHD in the Boston area. It's the one channel left i'm truly waiting for after CSNHD was finally added. So if SciFiHD gets added and before BSG returns in April i'll be completely set :D

What's the channel number for SciFi-HD? 862?

Strange that the TiVo would get them first...TiVos only connect to download guide data every 48 hours, so it makes sense for them to add the information a day early so everyone has it at launch.

[hv9200's TiVo connected to download guide data today, but other TiVos won't connect to download that guide data until tomorrow.]

SciFi-HD is channel 862 and APL-HD is 863

according to Tivo :O)

Sci-Fi HD and Animal Planet HD are live in Manchester, NH starting this morning.

Sci-Fi HD and Animal Planet HD are live in Manchester, NH starting this morning.

So far, it looks like a waste of good bandwith. I'd rather have the Weather Channel HD.

I was hoping for a Valentine's Day gift of more HD in Central Jersey. No joy.

I was hoping for a Valentine's Day gift of more HD in Central Jersey. No joy.

I feel your pain:(

I feel your pain:(

Day...after day...after day. And nothing. Thanks so much Comcast.:mad:

I was hoping for a Valentine's Day gift of more HD in Central Jersey. No joy.

Yeah, I was hoping for the 2 HD channels they said we were supposed to have by the end of the year. Instead this week, we go 2 HD On Demand channels in the middle of the HD channels. -Not sure why we need the same thing mapped to 3 channels.

I got a message yesterday that Comcast is adding 6 new HD channels in my area (greater Seattle area) on 3/4.

Sci-Fi
Animal Planet
TLC
Discovery
HGTV
Food Network

Does anyone have any idea on if/when the HD PPV channels are going to be added? In this thread about a week ago I got a message on my Comcast cable box stating the WWE No Way out PPV would be available in HD on Channels 230 and 510. (Im in Central New Jersey). As of today, both channels are still unoccupied.

Also, on Comcast.com, I checked my local Channel Lineup, and I notice that on Channel 504 it's listed as "Pay-Per-View Sports in HD" yet that channel is also unoccupied on my cable box as of today.

Any idea on what could be going on? Would they add the channels on the day of the PPV?

If SDV works as advertised, why is MPEG-4 still so important? I thought the whole point of SDV was to free up bandwidth. I understand that MPEG-4 is more efficient compression, but surely that's not the holdup for the SDV rollout, is it?


Comcast is taking a multi-pronged approach to freeing up bandwidth for more HD channels.

Sci-Fi HD and Animal Planet HD are live in Manchester, NH starting this morning.

Same down here in Boston. My HD wishes have finally been fulfilled :)

Comcast is taking a multi-pronged approach to freeing up bandwidth for more HD channels.

Plus in theory it could mean that Comcast could increase the quality of the HD channels as well.

Comcast president is funny. We are the "the leading provider of high-def programming in the world." Give me a break. They are going to add 50-60 HD Channels By Year's End. Okay DTV is adding another satellite next month D11 and possibly D12 by the end of the year. The MLB Extra Innings with SuperFan for example is going to offer around 40 HD games a week. DTV rules the planet right now with HD so Comcast president please step aside and be quiet until you can deliver.

http://www.tvpredictions.com/comcast021408.htm

Comcast president is funny. We are the "the leading provider of high-def programming in the world." Give me a break. (...)I haven't done the math, but when I read that I assumed that he meant that if you take the number of Comcast subscribers and multiply it by the average number of HD channels they get, the resultant product will be higher than if you did the same thing for any other provider.

So though DirecTV might have more HD channels available, they have fewer subscribers.

Through the diagnostics. First tune to the channel. Then hit the Cable button (if it's not already selected), then Power, and then press OK (within 2 seconds of hitting Power). Scroll down to "Current Channel Status" and hit OK. To check another channel, you have to turn the box back on and change the channel, then go through it all again (hit power a few times to get out of the diagnostics and turn the box back on).

pierceive, what line under "current channel status" tells you which QAM signal each channel is on?

Augusta, Ga listings :
200 VS/Golf
201 NFL HD * (sports package req'd
202 ESPN HD
203 ESPN2 HD
204 TNTHD
205 HDT
206 MOJO
207 FSNHD (only on sometimes) WASTE OF SPACE!!
208 UHD
209 Music HD
210 National Geo HD
211 A&EHD
212 HGTVHD
213 FoodHD
215 HBOHD
217 TBSHD
218 USAHD
219 MAXHD
223 SHOHD
227 STZHD
231 ABCHD
231 NBCHD
232 NBCHD
233 CBSHD
234 FOXHD
Hope SCIFI HD is next. Called COMCAST and they didn't have any idea about when it will be added.

Lucky Philly bums :P

Anon poster over on BBR reporting Philly will see new HD on 3/18, 4/08 for people that live in MDU's. This is the overall Philly area, including parts of DE. Here are the channel numbers and what they are adding:

(Channel 217) History HD
(Channel 221) CNN HD
(Channel 222) USA HD
(Channel 224) DSC HD
(Channel 225) TLC HD
(Channel 226) Sci-Fi HD
(Channel 230) APL HD
(Channel 238) AMC HD

pierceive, what line under "current channel status" tells you which QAM signal each channel is on?

The only useful information is the "Tuned Frequency". The box doesn't report the QAM channel number.

Augusta, Ga listings :
207 FSNHD (only on sometimes) WASTE OF SPACE!!


In your area, I would imagine this channel will show HD Braves games from both FSN South and SportSouth. Even if it's a part time channel, the regional sports networks usually get their way since their live games cannot be seen anywhere else within the region (ESPN Braves games are blacked out there). On the other hand, there may be an agreement beween the network and the cable companies that they will have a full time channel by xxxx date.

Lucky Philly bums :P

Anon poster over on BBR reporting Philly will see new HD on 3/18, 4/08 for people that live in MDU's. This is the overall Philly area, including parts of DE. Here are the channel numbers and what they are adding:

(Channel 217) History HD
(Channel 221) CNN HD
(Channel 222) USA HD
(Channel 224) DSC HD
(Channel 225) TLC HD
(Channel 226) Sci-Fi HD
(Channel 230) APL HD
(Channel 238) AMC HD

MDU's?:confused:

(Channel 238) AMC HD

Raises the possibility of IFC, Fuse, and We as future additions (all owned by Rainbow Media). IFC an We HD content is available On Demand.

MDU = Multiple Dwelling Unit

According to Comcast, it "can be an apartment complex, hi-rise, hospital, dorm or other multi-unit property".

MDU's?:confused:

Apartment-type buildings.

And no maxman, I don't think this applies to you. I'll clarify though by posting there.

Raises the possibility of IFC, Fuse, and We as future additions (all owned by Rainbow Media). IFC an We HD content is available On Demand.

That one came out of no where. AMC HD, no Comcast system has seen that one as of yet. IFC is already in HD, but almost no one carries it.

MDU = Multiple Dwelling Unit

Ah, rabbit hutches!:D

The only useful information is the "Tuned Frequency". The box doesn't report the QAM channel number.

But you can figure it out. See here:http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=11710857#post11710857

Lucky Philly bums :P

Anon poster over on BBR reporting Philly will see new HD on 3/18, 4/08 for people that live in MDU's. This is the overall Philly area, including parts of DE. Here are the channel numbers and what they are adding:

(Channel 217) History HD
(Channel 221) CNN HD
(Channel 222) USA HD
(Channel 224) DSC HD
(Channel 225) TLC HD
(Channel 226) Sci-Fi HD
(Channel 230) APL HD
(Channel 238) AMC HD

And still...it ain't us!:mad:

I am not an Atlanta Braves fan, nor do I live in their TV territory, but I wanted to post this here for the Braves fans in the southeast. TBS has officially become a national network and will show games of different MLB teams on Sunday afternoons. The local WTBS channel 17 in Atlanta has become WPCH, or Peachtree TV. The bad news for many Braves fans is that WPCH has retained the broadcast rights for about one third of their games. For those in the Atlanta DMA, there will be no change. All of the games can be seen on WPCH, SportSouth, and FSN South, with many in HD.
Here's where the relevance comes in to this thread- If you live outside of the Atlanta DMA and don't get any of the local Atlanta channels, don't bother asking Comcast or any other provider to carry WPCH. By law, they can't. MLB rules dictate that the Braves (or any other team) have the right to market their broadcast games to TV stations within its TV territory. If you live within the territory and would like to see the broadcast games, I wanted to let you know that you need to pester the local channels in your area to carry the games (I would start with a CW or myTV affiliate), and not the cable company. If you live in this region, your local affiliate would be the only way to see the broadcast games. They are blacked out for you on ESPN (except Sunday night), WGN, TBS, mlb.tv, and MLB Extra Innings. A lot of people are going to be hot about this once the season starts and they can't see the games anymore.
If anyone isn't sure, the Braves region includes all of GA, AL, MS, TN, SC, and the western half of NC.

Quote Steve Burke:

“We continue to believe that customers really care about choice—HD choices, not necessarily channels,” said Burke. “People watch choices, not linear channels, so we have been adding on-demand options as well as channels.”

http://www.telecommagazine.com/newsglobe/article.asp?HH_ID=AR_3965

Quote Steve Burke:

“We continue to believe that customers really care about choice—HD choices, not necessarily channels,” said Burke. “People watch choices, not linear channels, so we have been adding on-demand options as well as channels.”

http://www.telecommagazine.com/newsglobe/article.asp?HH_ID=AR_3965

My "choice" would be to have HD programming that I could depend on being there -- which doesn't mean OnDemand shows that Comcast may or may not decide to provide from one week to the next. Bring on Speed-HD (Speed OnDemand has never carried a race, so I'll not anticipate ever seeing any F-1 in HD there).

I checked out HD channels here in Knoxville and a few channels are carrying 3 signals instead of 2. And on those channels, the PQ doesn't look as good as the others. Discovery's HD Theater is one of them and it used to look really good since it's a 1080 channel. Now, it looks like fair 720 channel.

I wonder whether companies will eventually start making bandwidth/PQ a part of carriage agreements. For example, Disney (or whoever negotiates for ESPN) could demand that ESPN HD and ESPN2 HD share a dedicated channel (no third station).

I wonder whether companies will eventually start making bandwidth/PQ a part of carriage agreements. For example, Disney (or whoever negotiates for ESPN) could demand that ESPN HD and ESPN2 HD share a dedicated channel (no third station).

I think HBO is doing that with their new MPEG4 agreements

I don't have HBO, but that's good to hear. It's quite logical, too. Stations are investing a lot of money into HD, and their viewers are getting poor quality programming because of the middle-men. Viewers are likely to blame the stations, too, because certain types of programming tend to result in more artifacts.

I wonder whether companies will eventually start making bandwidth/PQ a part of carriage agreements. For example, Disney (or whoever negotiates for ESPN) could demand that ESPN HD and ESPN2 HD share a dedicated channel (no third station).

I don't know. I thought there was that kind of connection with ours until I looked at it again. The 3 sharing the same signal are USA, Sci Fi, and Discovery HD and the other 3 sharing are History Channel, USA, and Discovery Theater HD.

if you missed earlier, we are getting a&e, hgtv, food, discovery, usa, history, sci fi and tbs in central pa on or shortly after 2/14. If you are referring to anything beyond that I don't think anything's been announced. I'm hoping for cnn before we get too deep into the election.

Did you get your channels yet? We have not-called Comcast and got a recording they are adding the channels and will be completed by Feb. 21
I believe that was the date given.

nope. comcast insiders on other boards have mentioned the 25th. who knows, the analogs were moved and the bandwidth is there so they will give them to us when they feel like it I guess.

My "choice" would be to have HD programming that I could depend on being there -- which doesn't mean OnDemand shows that Comcast may or may not decide to provide from one week to the next.

My sentiments exactly. I'll use my DVR to timeshift when necessary, at least I'll know it's there when I have time to watch rather than hoping it's available OnDemand.

My sentiments exactly. I'll use my DVR to timeshift when necessary, at least I'll know it's there when I have time to watch rather than hoping it's available OnDemand.

Thats if OnDemand is even working at the time you decide to go looking. Half of the time I try, its out. :rolleyes: So I would much rather have new HD channels than OnDemand.

My sentiments exactly. I'll use my DVR to timeshift when necessary, at least I'll know it's there when I have time to watch rather than hoping it's available OnDemand.

I've pretty much given up on OnDemand. Unless ours just sucks. The only Network HD shows available in my area are all CBS shows, and even then it's only CSI, CSI:NY, and Jericho. I really thought by now there would be much more available.

I now only use OnDemand for the occassional Free HD movie.

Hopefully the other broadcast networks will be willing to provide their programs in HD in the future. So far, only CBS is showing up here as well. I suggest folks write to NBC, ABC and Fox to encourage them to participate.

Hopefully the other broadcast networks will be willing to provide their programs in HD in the future. So far, only CBS is showing up here as well. I suggest folks write to NBC, ABC and Fox to encourage them to participate.

Here in Philly, we have a couple NBC shows OnDemand(not free, .99 each), and some ABC shows(Desperate,Grays, LOST). Along with the CBS stuff too. All also in HD. Both are a result of agreements Comcast has with the O&O stations across the nation. Unfortunetly this only applies to viewers in those O&O markets, aka the major(top 20ish) metro areas of the country.

FOX is absent from ondemand offerings. However most networks(Fox too I believe) now offer full episodes online. ABC's are even in "HD", the quality is really close to HD over cable if you have a fast connection and decent computer. I had to watch LOST online friday night, because OnDemand was choking up, I'm guessing because of capacity, fri/sat nights are the most popular times.

Online episodes aren't really in the same context as On Demand offerings. On Demand programs are displayed on my 50" HDTV display, while online episode are displayed on my 15" laptop screen.

Here in south Jersey they charge $.99 each for each Ondemand shows if I like to re watch it. I find that is Bull S**T!! I pay more than I think I should for poor service from comcast. On My Comcast HD DVR box most of the shows that I Record do not play when I like to watch them and when I call Comcast to let them know that my DVR Box is not letting watch my recording they tell me to pay the $.99 to watch the show.
This Just happen on Friday when I recorder the show Vegas. So why should I pay to watch a show when I all ready pay a fee for my DVR Box?

So don't. You have total control. If you feel the prices aren't worth it, unsubscribe. That's the only way Comcast will ever get the message from you.

I would suggest taking the dvr down to the local office and exchanging it.

Keep on topic, or comments will be deleted.

I'm going to say the next HD channel will be a VOD of that Paris Hilton film that bombed at the theaters.

Should be out next month. By Comcast standards that will be another channel.
:D

Back on topic; sort of.

Ok I have been looking into DTV for some time now. I am waiting to here from My Comcast on why we have very bad cable TV pitcher on my street and when they will fix it or not. They where out this weekend looking into it again and they said the fiber optic cables are bad again in the street.(3rd time they need to be replaced in 5 years) But the supervisor that was with about 6 men said they are getting lots of people stopping them and calling them on the HD service about lack of HD channels. He said we live in one of the largest cable TV HD TV market and it seems like Comcast dose not care!!!!

I would suggest taking the dvr down to the local office and exchanging it.

I have and when they where out this weekend the supervisor told me this has became a problem with in the last couple of months. It is not the BOX it is Comcast and there software.
He all so told me he has hard from higher up that they hope they can make more money with paying to watch reruns of just aired shows than with the DVR box.:mad:

What did he say the next HD channel was going to be? (Please remember, the moderator has asked us to keep this thread on topic. If you have something else to add, please add it to a different thread.)

Well I have to admit that after finally getting OnDemand I have to say it's a huge let down. I guess I expected too much. I found that it's very clunky and a PITA to navigate. It's set up very poorly and takes way too much time just to try and find something to watch. There is very little quality content and it's hit or miss as far as whats available. There seems to be a ton of garbage channels like local dating, cars for sale, a 2 hour playing of local TV commercials, etc :(

Now I can truely see why people are so pissed off about Comcast advertising that they have the most "HD Choices". I'd take 90 "HD Channels" over 30 "HD channels plus OnDemand" any day.

Might be old but I just found out that Chicago area have Animal Planet HD added as APHD.

Does it seems odd that the following cable companies like Time Warner, Cox, RCN, & even the smaller ones have added certain HD channels which Comcast doesn't carry? Time Warner has Movie Channel, Lifetime Movie Channel, Weather Channel & Fox Business; Cox has Science Channel HD & Travel Channel HD; & RCN in my hometown of Chicago gave their customers Big 10 Network & recently MGM HD. Brian Roberts, Steve Burke, & the rest of those Comcast executives aren't thinking clearly.

I think they are, and they simply know that such channels are desired by so few customers that they don't have to add them immediately. They have a certain amount of bandwidth. Already we're seeing concerns expressed that they've cut bit rates to fit three HD channels on a single broadcast channel. And we've also seen that localities will not make it easy for them to selectively move less popular analog channels to digital. And of course we know how much trouble they face if they suddenly get rid of all analog. So they have a hard choice. They DO think clearly, evaluate the options, and have chosen a course that gives each of the opposing sides most, but not all, of what we want. The analog people get most of their analog; the HD people get most of their HD.

Some posted new channels added for Central, PA.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13177590#post13177590

Two HD channels fit in one QAM without extra compression.

Extra compression is required to fit three HD channels into one QAM. That's what Comcast now doing in some or all markets to make room for the new channels. They were not doing that before.

Here's video footage showing what Comcast Chicago users are seeing since the new channels were added:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nT30UW80N0I

As you can see, the picture breaks up and skips frames during intense scenes. In most cases, it is not bad, but users also report reduced quality on several of older HD channels that began when (or shortly before) the new channels were added.

That's how some of out channels are doing now. And it's on the ones that 3 channels are on one QAM.

Does it seems odd that the following cable companies like Time Warner, Cox, RCN, & even the smaller ones have added certain HD channels which Comcast doesn't carry? Time Warner has Movie Channel, Lifetime Movie Channel, Weather Channel & Fox Business; Cox has Science Channel HD & Travel Channel HD; & RCN in my hometown of Chicago gave their customers Big 10 Network & recently MGM HD. Brian Roberts, Steve Burke, & the rest of those Comcast executives aren't thinking clearly.

No, it doesn't seem odd to me. Comcast has HD channels that those others DON'T carry. All cable companies have to have carriage agreements in place with the owners of the channels to carry them. All the contracts are different, and the contracts all expire -- and are required to be renewed - at different dates.

I think they are, and they simply know that such channels are desired by so few customers that they don't have to add them immediately. They have a certain amount of bandwidth. Already we're seeing concerns expressed that they've cut bit rates to fit three HD channels on a single broadcast channel. And we've also seen that localities will not make it easy for them to selectively move less popular analog channels to digital. And of course we know how much trouble they face if they suddenly get rid of all analog. So they have a hard choice. They DO think clearly, evaluate the options, and have chosen a course that gives each of the opposing sides most, but not all, of what we want. The analog people get most of their analog; the HD people get most of their HD.

I must disagree with you, at least in my region's specific situation. We have not seen ANY new HD channels since October, and the analog lineup hasn't changed since then either. 22 HD channels (or around there)--far less than what now seems to be where the majority of Comcast systems are now or will be very soon. They ARE NOT giving each side most of what they want--even with the second highest HD penetration rate in the nation they haven't even added the HD channels that are now standard across many systems, let alone new ones that only D* and other providers carry. It sucks that I have no choice in my providers--I found out no satellite because of trees, and there is no FiOS to compete yet. It's Comcast or bust....

I find your generalized statement way too broad and not inline with some areas of Comcast. Wait until all systems get the same HD channels (32 ish), then come back and make that statement.

I just noticed today here in Utah, they added 3 new channels on the guide.
The channels itself have not been assigned what program yet, but i'm assuming and hoping they're HD channels....being the fact they are right after the last HD channel on the guide.

I have channel 691,692 and 693. Right now it's just labeled 'NOPRG' but hopefully that changes soon in the next couple of days.

so im here in the chicagoland area
anyone know of any new HD channels coming out
i hear they are supposed to have a BUNCH more by the end of 08
any ideas?

I find your generalized statement way too broad and not inline with some areas of Comcast. Generalized statements are required to be broad, and explicit not supposed to be in line with specific areas. Generalized statements apply to the overall, across-the-board, average situation, and necessarily so.

Wait until all systems get the same HD channels (32 ish), then come back and make that statement.Rather, you wait until most systems fail to match my statement, then come back and make your objection to it. :D

so im here in the chicagoland area
anyone know of any new HD channels coming out
i hear they are supposed to have a BUNCH more by the end of 08
any ideas?

I am Chicago too. It appears that we have all HD channels that Comcast carries. So we are ahead of most of the country from that standpoint, but still behind DirecTV.

bicker, it's too easy to find everything rosy when your area is one of the best Comcast systems in the country whereas Sansri, I and the other NJ customers suffer with such a mess Comcast company that their Marketing and Sales director thinks their customers want Reelz channel...

http://www.multichannel.com/article/CA6527555.html

Yup, and easy to see everything negatively when your area is one of the worst Comcast systems in the country. The actuality is somewhere in between, which is really the context of my earlier, generalized (balanced) statement. I didn't say, "Comcast is great!" (even though it is great here in MA, as you pointed out). Let's keep things real here: The issue of the "next HD channel for Comcast" is inextricably tied to what I mentioned: "They have a certain amount of bandwidth." The implication I was replying to was the implication made earlier that they don't think things through. I haven't seen any reasonable defense of that implication. They have these difficult issues to balance: limited bandwidth, new HD channels, HD channel bit rate and its impact on PQ, the requirement to retain analog service, etc. To say, just because an area has less HD than HD subscribers would like, that they don't think clearly isn't really fair, is it, given that there are no easy answers?

See, all would be fine and well if they implemented bandwidth saving initiatives like SDV. However, every time I try to find out about SDV I hear it keeps getting pushed back.

First early 2008, then summer 2008, now the latest I heard a month or so was late 2008...

The bit rate and compression things have been taken care of with 3 HD channels on 1 QAM. A person at our local headend has said that process has already been perfected, and yet they still haven't done anything to add channels? We go up to channel 119, there has to be some open room (I'll verify this statement when I check my TV sometime soon).

Added today in Tucson,AZ: CNN HD, AMC HD, TLC HD, Animal Planet HD, and SCi-Fi HD

Added today in Tucson,AZ: CNN HD, AMC HD, TLC HD, Animal Planet HD, and SCi-Fi HD

AMC HD? Are you sure? This is the first I have heard of any Comcast system getting AMC in HD. That would be great, bring on Mad Men and Breaking Bad in HD!

AMC HD? Are you sure? This is the first I have heard of any Comcast system getting AMC in HD. That would be great, bring on Mad Men and Breaking Bad in HD!


Yes I'm positive, very big surprise to me as well. Right now it's showing Bull Durham, not in HD though. Hopefully this channel isnt stretch o vision because it can be a great addition.

Some posted new channels added for Central, PA.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13177590#post13177590

Yeah, we got that list in Central PA this week. Not sure when since I was away on business, but they were here when I got back last night.

So far I've only watched a rerun of Stargate: Atlantis, and it had a LOT of breakup and stuttering. I hope that's just because it's new and they're still working out the kinks.

I'm not too much excited about most of the channels, but at least I can watch The 4400, Monk, Stargate Atlantis, and oh yes...BSG....in HD now.

Now if comcast would start offering FX for Rescue Me, The Shield, and Nip/Tuck, I'd be all set. What is up with that anyways....does Comcast hate FX or something?

For those who like further confirmation:
http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h52/babrown92/untitled-1.jpg

AMC HD seems a little strange to me. We already get Breaking Bad and Mad Men in HD via AMC HD On Demand -- is there really that much true HD that AMC offers that warrants taking up scarce bandwidth?

For those who like further confirmation:
http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h52/babrown92/untitled-1.jpg

That doesn't look too crazy stetched from what I can tell. Has anyone noticed that TNT does a much better job of stretching their SD content than TBS does?

AMC put the shows on On Demand to drum up interest in normal airings (where the advertising revenue is, I suppose):
http://www.multichannel.com/article/CA6454712.html

AMC HD seems a little strange to me. We already get Breaking Bad and Mad Men in HD via AMC HD On Demand -- is there really that much true HD that AMC offers that warrants taking up scarce bandwidth?

if they show movies in HD without stretching, absolutely in my opinion.

bicker, it's too easy to find everything rosy when your area is one of the best Comcast systems in the country whereas Sansri, I and the other NJ customers suffer with such a mess Comcast company that their Marketing and Sales director thinks their customers want Reelz channel...

http://www.multichannel.com/article/CA6527555.html

I am with you I only get 16 HD channels and that is with premium channels.:mad:
I am in South Jersey

For those who like further confirmation:
http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h52/babrown92/untitled-1.jpg

What is 233 MXHDW?

What is 233 MXHDW?

Cinemax HD West.

Thread rolled back to before it went off-topic. Regional-specific issues should be addressed in the Local areas. I know that's a bit of a hair split since new Comcast channels may not show up in all markets, but try to watch how far off-topic you go, please.

Note: some legitimate posts may have been lost in the rollback. For that, I apologize.

From the Seattle Comcast thread:

Got a mailer about the new channels on March 4th and at the bottom it says that Disney HD and ABC Family HD comming soon.

Reposting this because these channels were not previously announced for any Comcast area.

Comcast adding nine HD channels in New Jersey.

Reportedly, the cable company is scheduled to add SportsNet New York HD, USA HD, Sci-Fi HD, Food Network HD, A&E HD, HD Theater, The History Channel HD, HGTV HG and Animal Planet HD to the lineup on March 27th.

http://www.engadgethd.com/2008/02/28/comcast-adding-nine-hd-channels-in-new-jersey/

I assume that means the new discovery hd channel considering we have had HD Theater from the start. ^

From the Seattle Comcast thread:



Reposting this because these channels (ABC Family HD, Disney HD) were not previously announced for any Comcast area.Added to first post, thanks.

Comcast adding nine HD channels in New Jersey.

Reportedly, the cable company is scheduled to add SportsNet New York HD, USA HD, Sci-Fi HD, Food Network HD, A&E HD, HD Theater, The History Channel HD, HGTV HG and Animal Planet HD to the lineup on March 27th.

http://www.engadgethd.com/2008/02/28/comcast-adding-nine-hd-channels-in-new-jersey/

Looks like you should have said "parts of New Jersey". The link is a little more specific in saying:

"Granted, not all parts of NJ will be affected, but we are hearing that systems in the Jersey Shore communities from Sandy Hook down to Long Beach Island should find 'em late next month."

A subscriber asks: "Other Comcast areas have these channels, why dont I?"

Comcast: "Because, unfortunately, they are not available in your area at this time."

The same boilerplate answers I've been receiving for over a year now:

http://www.satelliteguys.us/comcast-cable-forum/126590-i-asked-comcast-when-i-would-get-new-hd-channels.html (2/28/08)

maxman:

I spoke to a Comcast rep (at a special infrastructure-upgrade phone number) a few days ago, and they explained that my area had just been upgraded to receive more HD feeds, and now they were upgrading infrastructure to distribute them. If they were correct, and my interpretation is correct, the channels really were "not available in my area" before; the plant (or whatever it's called) simply didn't have the capacity or equipment to get the channels from the source.

Looks like you should have said "parts of New Jersey". The link is a little more specific in saying:

"Granted, not all parts of NJ will be affected, but we are hearing that systems in the Jersey Shore communities from Sandy Hook down to Long Beach Island should find 'em late next month."

Thanks maxman. Looks like North NJ gets the same thing from Comcast we always get...nothing! (Except rate hikes.)

AMC HD seems a little strange to me. We already get Breaking Bad and Mad Men in HD via AMC HD On Demand -- is there really that much true HD that AMC offers that warrants taking up scarce bandwidth?

Every time I go to VOD there's barely anything there.
VOD is a pooooor substitute for REAL channels.

That may explain why Comcast looses thousands of customers every month.

Instead of trying to buy Disney, maybe Comcast should've spent some money upgrading it's cable bandwidth.
D* wouldn't be gaining 100's of thousands of customers each quarter and C* loosing 100's of thousands.

Keep in mind that Comcast already has too many customers, according to some regulators. So losing customers, while increasing their revenues, which is what they've done recently, is actually a win-win for Comcast.

Thanks maxman. Looks like North NJ gets the same thing from Comcast we always get...nothing! (Except rate hikes.)

thats not entirely correct. from what i have heard, these additions also include middlesex, union, and a few other counties.

Keep in mind that Comcast already has too many customers, according to some regulators. So losing customers, while increasing their revenues, which is what they've done recently, is actually a win-win for Comcast.

Can you explain how to increase revenues and lose customers at the same time?

Neat trick.

Can you explain how to increase revenues and lose customers at the same time?

Neat trick.


For one thing, pay Video on Demand.

Also, existing customers are upgrading their existing service (more digital boxes and more expensive programming packages).

Can you explain how to increase revenues and lose customers at the same time?Simple---bring in more revenue per customer.

Keep in mind that Comcast already has too many customers, according to some regulators. So losing customers, while increasing their revenues, which is what they've done recently, is actually a win-win for Comcast.
Fewer customers, but higher ticket customers, might not be a bad strategy. But I don’t really see Comcast going that way. HDTV would be a center-piece to that strategy, but they are now lagging behind the competition in that area. There will be many more HD customers soon, and they will be looking for more linear channels and will be willing to pay for them.

Counter intuitively, Comcast is clinging to an array of analog channels to placate their lowest ticket customers. And yet their subscriber base is shrinking? I think this means that their higher ticket customers are leaving. And this is being masked by rate increases that exceed subscriber losses. But these rate increases will make the competition more attractive. If they can’t reverse that trend, those profits may vaporize.

Mickey

Can you explain how to increase revenues and lose customers at the same time?

Neat trick.

Easy, that's what internet and phone service are all about, increase the revenue from that one one customer. One sub at $100-125 a month is worth more than 3 at $25 a month. You lose subs, increase what you make on the remaining subs. Cable has been doing this for years now as we're just about at saturation point of existing available customers. IOW, there's a finite amount of potential customers out there, the service providers are shuffling them around now rather than getting brand new virgin, never had any service before, subscribers.

thats not entirely correct. from what i have heard, these additions also include middlesex, union, and a few other counties.

Not as of today. Only Comcast of Central NJ (Southern Middlesex county) is included in the new HD rollout. However, NNJ should be getting these channels around the same time. Pretty tough when you have to have 5 systems get the channels at the same time. I would expect the announcement to come within the next week (maybe tomorrow, some big announcements have come on Saturday's).

Wow, this thread is just a train wreck these days. There's an alternative Comcast topic for talking about all this other stuff that pertains to Comcast in some way.

Anyway, thanks to Marcus Carr for pointing out that nugget he found in the Seattle Comcast thread regarding Disney HD and ABC Family HD.

Fewer customers, but higher ticket customers, might not be a bad strategy.And now that the subscriber cap requirement has been published in the Public Register it is essential. Comcast now needs to actively find a way to dump customers unwilling to pay for PPV, higher-level digital packages, HSI, telephone service, etc.

But I don’t really see Comcast going that way. HDTV would be a center-piece to that strategyHDTV is a loser proposition. They don't charge me a penny extra for HD. The center-piece to that strategy needs to be things that actually raise substantial revenue.

Besides, there's basically only one decent HD channel that Comcast could provide me that they aren't providing me.

HDTV is a loser proposition. They don't charge me a penny extra for HD. The center-piece to that strategy needs to be things that actually raise substantial revenue.

Most Comcast customers pay an extra $7/month for an HD box.