Comcast HDTV [Text View] - Page 27

Texadillo

05-19-08, 01:51 PM

Three new HD channels in southeast PA, and now the cable boxes (Motorolla DCT6412) have slowed to a crawl. All of my friends in the area experience this issue, so it's not isolated. Changing channels takes over 15 seconds to execute, and skipping back on the DVR takes so long that when the command finally executes, it doesn't occur until after the point when I pushed to button to begin with.

This used to happen before, with the frequency increasing as new HD channels were added (up to about once every hour with the last HD adds), but since the addition of the new HD channels it happens almost every single time. Absolutely infuriating.

I had the same problem here in Tallahassee until I was able to get one of the new Motorola DCH6416 boxes from Comcast. The problem has almost completely gone away. It will delay maybe once a week and for a much shorter period of time (5 seconds) and then it will work properly.

With the DCT 6412 I found that when it got really bad if you unplug everything from the back of the box (power, cable, HDMI, Optical) for 5 minutes and then reconnect everything, it will perform much better for a couple of weeks.

blitzen102

05-19-08, 03:44 PM

With the DCT 6412 I found that when it got really bad if you unplug everything from the back of the box (power, cable, HDMI, Optical) for 5 minutes and then reconnect everything, it will perform much better for a couple of weeks.

Just unplugging the power from the STB for 30+ seconds will usually do the trick.

Of course, then you have to wait hours for the guide data to get completely refreshed.

JimsArcade

05-19-08, 07:57 PM

I'll give it a try after sweeps are over this week. (I don't want to miss anything as my guide refreshes.) ;) Performance used to improve when I deleted everything off my DVR, but not anymore.

I called Comcast and they still only offer the DCT6412s in my area. How old are those things: 4 years? 5? Also, unless the unit has completely malfunctioned, they aren't replacing them because they have a severe shortage of units.

michaelk

05-19-08, 09:44 PM

...

I called Comcast and they still only offer the DCT6412s in my area. How old are those things: 4 years? 5? Also, unless the unit has completely malfunctioned, they aren't replacing them because they have a severe shortage of units.

not to drift too far off topic- but the phone drones dont know spit. If you can, take a drive down to the nearest local office and see if they have something newer in stock. DCT6412's and anything else without a cablecard has been illegal for them to purchase for almost a year now- I guess it's possible they have purchased not a single new DVR in that time but i doubt it. I'd suspect that by now more people have asked for dvr's then they possibly could have had in inventory of the old models so they must have some new things someplace.

DVDO+WESTY=1080p

05-23-08, 10:44 AM

I saw a commerical on the Weather Channel that said the Weather Channel HD would be in my area in June so if that's true then that makes 39 HD channels for Manassas

Tybee

05-28-08, 10:57 AM

I saw a commerical on the Weather Channel that said the Weather Channel HD would be in my area in June so if that's true then that makes 39 HD channels for Manassas

They launch HD programming on June 2, so that would make sense.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=840505&page=4

Wonder how long it will take them to add it here in Atlanta (where they're based)?

gakon

05-28-08, 12:11 PM

They've had an HD channel for a while (I saw it on TWC in upstate NY last December) - June 2 is just going 24/7 with HD.

Cubbies_26

05-28-08, 08:45 PM

A few pages back, I asked some questions about the blackout rules for MLB---I have a new question tonight. Last night, I was able to watch the Cubs vs Dodgers game on ESPN HD, but tonight, the same 2 teams are playing on ESPN 2 HD and the game is blacked out. Last night's game was being simulcast on Comcast Sportsnet Chicago (which we receive) and tonight's game is being simulcast on WGN America (which we also receive---it used to be called Superstation WGN). This seems odd to me, but maybe someone can explain why I could watch the game on ESPN HD last night, but not on ESPN 2 HD tonight.

aindik

05-28-08, 09:29 PM

michaelk

05-28-08, 09:48 PM

espn2 games appear to contractually NEVER be allowed into the local markets. As above sometimes ESPN has the juice to override local blackouts.

Cubbies_26

05-28-08, 10:57 PM

espn2 games appear to contractually NEVER be allowed into the local markets. As above sometimes ESPN has the juice to override local blackouts.

That is an interesting point, because there have been times I have been able to watch college football games on ESPN HD (big 10 usually), but for whatever reason, a similar game (also big 10) will be blacked out on ESPN 2 HD. I always thought it was some weird glitch, but now that it has happened in baseball too, you must be on the right track about ESPN2's lack of ability to override the blackout rules.

bob2274

05-28-08, 11:11 PM

ESPN Sunday games are exclusive nationally. Aside from that, MLB on ESPN and ESPN2 are non-exclusive and should be blacked out in both teams' markets. If any local game is getting through to you, it is an error on the part of your cable company. Since DirecTV serves the entire country, they usually do the blackout thing properly since they go by zip codes based on each subscriber.
I don't know about the Big Ten Conference and their blackouts since I live outside the Big Ten region.

Benji2

05-29-08, 06:35 AM

Apart from its Sunday night total national exclusivity, I believe ESPN gets a certain limited number of games for each team each season where it can broadcast into the local market.

I remember reading somewhere last season that ESPN can play 3 games a season into a team's local market, overriding the blackout. I would assume that an ESPN2 game which would have been on ESPN, except for the NBA playoff game, figures into this rule as well.

bob2274

05-30-08, 12:41 AM

NBA rules are less restictive than the other sports. When the Wizards are on ESPN and Comcast SportsNet in my region, I can see them on both channels since I'm far enough away from Washington.
From what I've read about MLB rules, they don't allow for any deviations from exclusivity, even when your home RSN isn't showing the game. They were supposed to streamline the restrictions at the owners meeting this month, but whatever changes made will only be in time for the 2009 season, when the MLB channel is launched. The 3 game rule you mention might be a cap for Sunday nights, meaning that ESPN has the right to take away up to 3 games a season from any regional sports network.

Benji2

05-30-08, 06:57 AM

No...actually I'm certain ESPN can send a game into a local team's market 3 times in a season whether the local team is televising or not. I live in the metro Boston area and I've seen Wednesday night baseball involving the Red Sox on ESPN at the same time NESN had the game. And it's happened on more than one occasion. And I know I've read somewhere that ESPN can choose up to three games that override the local blackout rule. This has nothing to do with Sunday night baseball which is an ESPN exclusive.

redstang93

05-30-08, 08:55 AM

I haven't been paying attention, but last night noticed that they added 11 new hd channels in Panama City, FL.

HGTV, Food, Animal Planet, History, TLC, AMC, CNN, Disney, ABC Family, Science, and USA.

Not sure how many show true HD and not stretched, but with the other HD channels we have, it doesn't feel so bad paying the service now.

maxman

05-30-08, 09:06 AM

They aren't adding anything in my area. They did something day before yesterday. The guide wouldn't work (around 5am) and later there was a change to the menus (the icons were different). Got some "tuning" messages when changing channels. Wondering if they're testing SDV. I called DirecTV and talked to them a few days ago. About to switch. It's clear Comcast isn't going to upgrade my system anytime soon.

rafiks

05-30-08, 09:45 AM

redstang93

05-30-08, 12:42 PM

30 Total channels now, including the premiums.

202 ESPN HD
203 ESPN2 HD
204 TNT HD
205 Discovery HD
206 Mojo HD
207 Universal HD
208 VERSUS/Golf HD
209 A&E HD
210 National Geographic HD
215 HBO HD
219 MAX HD
223 Showtime HD
227 Starz! HD
231 ABC HD
232 NBC HD
233 CBS HD
234 Fox HD
240 PBS HD
244 TBS HD
247 HGTV HD
248 Food Network HD
249 Animal Planet HD
250 History Channel HD
251 TLC HD
252 AMC HD
253 CNN HD
254 Disney HD
255 ABC Family HD
256 Science Channel HD
257 Discovery HD

Daniel Murray

05-30-08, 04:35 PM

smithfarmer

05-30-08, 05:29 PM

30 Total channels now, including the premiums.

I find it amazing that a small town like Panama City which has a population of maybe 40,000 and is located in a county with a total population of around 180,000 has more channels than we can get down here in Palm Beach County. Our population is around 1.3 million, we're one of the top 40 tv markets and can't even get Cinemax HD. No AMC, TBS, CNN, ABC Family or Science Channel in HD for us either.

Whats up with that? :(

bicker1

05-30-08, 05:57 PM

Figure every 1000 customers is still 1000 customers, whether it is a local neighborhood in Palm Beach or part of Panama City. How many HD channels you have has a lot more to do with how NEW the cable system infrastructure is, than how dense the population of the area is. Indeed, in many cases, population density works against this, because higher population density areas are perhaps more likely to be rebuilt, during each round of rebuilding, while less dense areas may have skipped the "last" round of rebuilding, and therefore were at the top of the list the next time.

Doom878

05-31-08, 10:58 AM

I read in the article in the Miami Herald that with some "added programming" we might see our bill go up by a few dollars. Anyone else heard about that?

bicker1

05-31-08, 11:00 AM

I think you can bank on prices going up, regardless of whether you get new HD channels or not.

smithfarmer

05-31-08, 02:39 PM

I read in the article in the Miami Herald that with some "added programming" we might see our bill go up by a few dollars. Anyone else heard about that?

http://www.sun-sentinel.com/business/sfl-flzcomcast0531sbmay31,0,5016617.story

rafiks

06-02-08, 04:08 AM

I read in the article in the Miami Herald that with some "added programming" we might see our bill go up by a few dollars. Anyone else heard about that?

Yup,got a mail confirming this. They actually say June but really not sure when in June.. I tried unplugging my dvr to see if it gets new channels but no luck yet.

Doom878

06-02-08, 08:01 AM

They gotta pay all that extra gas to send techs to someone's house when the simple solution is to unplug the modem and plug it back in.

Cubbies_26

06-04-08, 03:22 PM

Now that Verizon is rolling out a bunch of new HD channels, lets hope Comcast fires back with some additions of their own.

http://www.tvpredictions.com/verizon060408.htm

wstanko

06-04-08, 03:30 PM

bicker1

06-04-08, 04:29 PM

An excellent message posted in another thread speaks to this directly:A company like Comcast will typically send out customer surveys or have focus groups where they show them video and ask if they prefer one over the other. One will be compressed more than the other. Perhaps 5% of people see any difference. They will then ask people how important it is to have 60 channels of HD instead of 40 channels of HD. Maybe 95% of people say that is important. So they reach the correct business conclusion that quantity of channels is more important than quality.

chitchatjf

06-04-08, 05:32 PM

Cubbies_26

06-05-08, 07:31 PM

Personally, I would rather not get anymore 2nd Class HD channels and get better picture quality instead. But that is not going to happen. FIOS, which is not available in my area, is the leader in picture quality while Comcast is playing catchup in only one category.

Give them more and they will be happy. I can see the deterioration in my signal on the national channels with the compression becoming the key to more channels. Remember when Comcast did not compress HD?

When was the last time you said "WOW" :mad:

How long has Comcast been using compression with their HD channels? I'm not sure how to answer your question about "WOW---I haven't said it in awhile pertaining to an HD picture, but I'm not sure if it's because the picture is getting worse, or I am just used to seeing shows and games in HD. I have to admit that I was blown away a lot more often when I first got my HDTV around a year and a half ago.

dean-l

06-06-08, 12:24 AM

bicker1

06-06-08, 06:55 AM

Things were bad for a few weeks back in January but then got significantly better -- not quite as good as they were before, but close.

Doom878

06-06-08, 08:07 AM

Some SD channels still are inferior to their HD counterpart. Watching a baseball on FSN vs FSNHD is night and day.

Cubbies_26

06-06-08, 10:34 AM

Comcast HD picture quality has gone down considerably.
You really do want to watch SD, the HD picture stutter is getting awful.
If HD wasn't 16:9; HD and SD would look the same for most channels.

Since Jan HD channels have really deteriorated with Comcast. They began SERIOUS compression around then for most markets.

P.S. This post is in reply to the last post. For those who may want to bully those who point out Comcast's weaknesses off of this site. Just letting everyone know that. Nothing wrong with two points of view. Just replying. Thank you. :D Have a great day:)

Are we to assume that when Comast stops offering 2 versions of certain channels (analog & digital) that it will clear up the necessary space to display a better HD picture? I'm not really an expert on this issue, but I can see that certain channels that used to wow me (MOJO, the HD Music Network) don't seem quite as impressive anymore. There was a time when the 1080i picture on those channels was amazing.

bicker1

06-06-08, 12:07 PM

Each (SD) analog channel uses up as much bandwidth as two (or three) HD channels, or about ten SD (digital) channels. Whether MSOs will use such bandwidth, once no longer used for analog channels, to de-mux some of the 3:1 scenarios is anyone's guess.

aindik

06-06-08, 12:10 PM

Each analog channel (SD or HD) uses up as much bandwidth as two (or three) HD channels, or about ten SD (digital) channels. Whether MSOs will use such bandwidth, once no longer used for analog channels, to de-mux some of the 3:1 scenarios is anyone's guess.

There are analog HD channels on cable?

bicker1

06-06-08, 12:37 PM

Sorry, that was silly. I have no idea why I typed that! Not-quite-senior moment.

I fixed my post.

smithfarmer

06-06-08, 10:56 PM

Things were bad for a few weeks back in January but then got significantly better -- not quite as good as they were before, but close.

Before Comcast started heavily compressing the signal, on a scale of 1-10, I'd say my HD PQ scored a solid 10. Immediately after this signal molestation began, the PQ dropped to where I would have given it a 6. It has since improved somewhat and I'd now give it a score of 7.5

I'd say Comcast still has quite a ways to go before I'd consider the PQ back to where it once was.

bicker1

06-07-08, 06:44 AM

smithfarmer

06-07-08, 04:26 PM

Yeah, I can't say your number are way off. I don't think it was ever a 10; Sci Fi is no CBS, when it comes to HD. So I'd have put it at a 9. I feel it went down to about 6, and then improved back up to a 8. So again, not much different from your numbers.

I don't expect the PQ to change again until they introduce SDV, if even then. '8' is good enough for the vast majority of people, and that tends to drive the market.

I was referring to actual HD content before the recent channel additions of Sci Fi, Animal Planet, History Channel, Discovery Channel, USA and The Food Network to my local area.

For example, before Comcast started compressing the signal, Discovery HD Theater looked fantastic on my 120" screen and compared very favorably with content from my HD DVD player. Subjectively, that is why I would have given it a score of 10. Now, it doesn't look so great.

As a matter of fact, I've actually decided to hold off on upgrading my projector. 80% of it's use is for viewing content from Comcast and I really can't justify expending the funds for a better pj that more easily allows me to see all the artifacts introduced by Comcast's offending compression scheme. I'd end up even more disappointed than I currently am.

bicker1

06-07-08, 04:33 PM

I thought you were talking about Sci Fi. :confused: It was actually HD Theater I had in mind when I said Sci Fi rated at most a '9' (with HD Theater being rated a '10').

smithfarmer

06-07-08, 04:58 PM

I thought you were talking about Sci Fi. :confused: It was actually HD Theater I had in mind when I said Sci Fi rated at most a '9' (with HD Theater being rated a '10').

Once you sober up, could you please rephrase this into a coherent post. :p

bicker1

06-07-08, 05:09 PM

I am sober. Read it more carefully, in context, please.

smithfarmer

06-07-08, 06:27 PM

I am sober.

It was a joke, hence the emoticon.

Read it more carefully, in context, please.

Context?

With relation to your previous post, Yeah, I can't say your number are way off. I don't think it was ever a 10; Sci Fi is no CBS, when it comes to HD. So I'd have put it at a 9. I feel it went down to about 6, and then improved back up to a 8. So again, not much different from your numbers.

honestly, I'd be surprised if anyone else here can make any sense of this sentence, "It was actually HD Theater I had in mind when I said Sci Fi rated at most a '9' (with HD Theater being rated a '10' "

I certainly can't.

bicker1

06-07-08, 07:45 PM

I'm surprised.

We were talking about PQ of HD. HD Theater's PQ was a '10'. Sci Fi was a '9', then '6', then '8'. I'm not sure what other words I could use to make it clearer to you.

dean-l

06-07-08, 10:22 PM

When you rotate around forums all day; it's got to be easy to get confused, eventually.

Might've got confused which forum he was in.:D

JamesDax

06-07-08, 10:38 PM

Still waiting for Sci-Fi HD here in Philly.

Morac

06-08-08, 02:00 AM

Still waiting for Sci-Fi HD here in Philly.

Same here. I emailed a suggestion recommending replacing ABC Famliy HD, which doesn't show any HD content as far as I can tell, with a channel that actually shows HD (I recommended Sci-Fi HD). Of course this was rejected and I got the usual response about different areas getting different channels, blah, blah.

bicker1

06-08-08, 04:38 AM

ABC Family presents Kyle XY in HD. Due to the writers' strike, it has been delayed to winter. :(

QZ1

06-08-08, 03:03 PM

Also, 'Greek' in HD, which is about to wrap up the season, and will have a marathon of the entire season, tomorrow, IIRC.

Marcus Carr

06-16-08, 08:49 AM

Big Ten Network, Comcast ready to call a truce

Sources: Announcement of long-term partnership near

By Teddy Greenstein | Tribune reporter
10:16 PM CDT, June 15, 2008

There were times when a Big Ten Network-Comcast union appeared as likely as uncovering scratchy footage that showed Woody Hayes screaming "Go Blue!"

But that day is here. Almost.

Comcast and the BTN are prepared to put nearly two years of bitter negotiations aside to announce a long-term partnership, the Tribune has learned.

"For all intents and purposes, it's done," one source close to the negotiations said Sunday.

Technically, it's not done. But sources expect the deal will be completed and unveiled this week.

The deal will nearly double the number of homes that can access the BTN, from 30 million to 55 million. In the eight-state Big Ten footprint, the number will surge from 6.5 million to about 13 million.

That still leaves out about 5.5 million homes in the Midwest, but officials hope the Comcast deal will provide a framework for negotiations with prominent cable carriers Time Warner, Mediacom and Charter.

The deal will be a boon to all parties, not to mention Chicago and its 1.8 million Comcast subscribers.

Comcast, which had been losing customers to DirecTV, the Dish Network and RCN Cable, will have video-on-demand features that will allow customers to access their favorite team's greatest games and replays of condensed, "snap-to-snap" games, according to sources.

The BTN completed the deal without caving on its central demand: that the channel be placed on expanded basic, rather than a sports tier, in the eight-state footprint. Only Philadelphia will be excluded.

Comcast can eventually move the channel to a more exclusive digital level of service in some systems.

The network's initial asking price was $1.10 per month per subscriber. Even with Comcast paying 70 to 80 cents, as sources indicated, that represents a massive cash influx.

The BTN also gets to end what Michigan State basketball coach Tom Izzo called a "PR nightmare." The league had been criticized as greedy and arrogant, and schools such as Ohio State, Wisconsin and Iowa—all of whom received $6.1 million in the first year alone—had grown weary of complaints from alumni and fans.

Last summer Comcast chided the BTN for broadcasting "second-tier" programming and asking customers to pay a "Big Ten tax." Big Ten Commissioner Jim Delany stopped just short of demanding an apology for those "denigrating" remarks.

But both sides needed one another. And the result will be a postgame handshake even Hayes and Bo Schembechler would approve.

http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/cs-080615-big-ten-network-comcast,0,670552.story

Marty Milton

06-16-08, 10:32 AM

Good news about BTN coming to Comcast. My only question is whether it will be available in HD like on Dish and Directv. I will be very disappointed if Comcast doesn't provide the BTN in HD.

singletb

06-16-08, 11:19 AM

Good news about BTN coming to Comcast. My only question is whether it will be available in HD like on Dish and Directv. I will be very disappointed if Comcast doesn't provide the BTN in HD.

I listened to the Network's president (his name is escaping me right now) speak at Durkin's Tavern last August. He said that a HD feed is being required of all carriers.

bigpatky

06-16-08, 12:31 PM

JDLIVE

06-16-08, 12:40 PM

i'm a huge michigan fan living in the west with comcast. i'm assuming it's going to be at least another year before i am offered the hd feed. there are quite a few channels that comcast has contracts to show in hd that just haven't made it to my market yet. i can't stand watching football in sd. comcast can give me espnews hd, but do they? nope. i expect the same from the btn hd.

i'm sure the hd feed will be available to comcast subscribers in the midwest. but will comcast be "required" to have the hd feed available everywhere?

I agree, I'm skeptical that those of us outside the B10 "footprint" will get HD right away. Same thing with the "overflow" channels, I don't expect those so we'll still probably see some times when we get regionalized coverage.

blitzen102

06-19-08, 03:44 PM

It is official. The bold is mine.

Comcast, Big Ten Network Reach Broad Multimedia Agreement

Comcast customers to receive Big Ten Network HD, Big Ten Network high-speed Internet content through Comcast.net, and condensed game replays and other programs through Comcast On Demand

June 19, 2008

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contacts:
John Demming, Comcast (215) 286-8011
Elizabeth Conlisk, Big Ten Network (312) 665-0726

Philadelphia and Chicago -- June 19, 2008 - Comcast Corporation and the Big Ten Network announced today that they have reached a long-term multimedia agreement for Comcast to carry Big Ten Network programming across television, broadband and video-on-demand in time for the 2008 college football season.

Under the terms of the agreement, Comcast will initially launch the network as part of its expanded basic level of service to promote it to the majority of its customers residing in states with Big Ten universities (Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, Wisconsin, and Pennsylvania, with the exception of the Philadelphia region which will launch on a broadly distributed digital level of service) starting August 15th. (Comcast does not have systems in Iowa, the eighth Big Ten state.) In Spring 2009, Comcast may elect to move the network to a broadly distributed digital level of service in most of its systems in these states. Comcast's digital customers in the Big Ten states will also have immediate access to live Big Ten games and events in high definition, Big Ten programming via Comcast's video-on-demand platform, and a wide array of conference-related content through Comcast.net.

Outside of the Big Ten states that Comcast serves, Comcast has the option to provide Big Ten Network programming on any level of service, including its Sports Entertainment Package.

Officials from Comcast and Big Ten Network said they look forward to utilizing both traditional and emerging media to bring more Big Ten programming to fans than was ever available to them before.

"We are very pleased with the agreement we have reached with the Big Ten Network to carry hundreds of live Big Ten events," said Madison Bond, Executive Vice President, Content Acquisition, Comcast Cable. "We will be providing our customers with Big Ten programming through our signature video-on-demand service, and will have lots of highlights, replays, scores and more through Comcast.net so fans can keep pace with Big Ten action whenever they want to."

Big Ten Network President Mark Silverman said the network is thrilled to have Comcast as a distribution partner. "This agreement allows us to reach many more Big Ten fans with our programming because of the high concentration of Comcast subscribers in Big Ten states. With the Comcast deal now in place, the Big Ten Network will be available to more than two-thirds of all homes in Big Ten Country."

Big Ten Network already produces more high-definition television content than any new sports network in television history. Over the next year, more than 400 live Big Ten sporting events will be carried by the Big Ten Network in high definition, including football, men's and women's basketball, baseball, softball and soccer, as well as other NCAA-sponsored sports.

Comcast's digital customers who receive the network will have On Demand access to programming such as weekly extended highlights and condensed game replays from around the conference, classic Big Ten sporting events, bowl game coverage and coaches' shows, plus original campus programming and nightly studio shows from Big Ten Network, most of which is available in high definition.

Comcast also has the ability to deliver much of that same content to its Comcast High Speed Internet customers via the company's Comcast.net portal. Additionally, Comcast has the rights to carry certain network content on Fancast.com.

About Comcast Corporation
Comcast Corporation (Nasdaq: CMCSA, CMCSK) (http://www.comcast.com) is the nation's leading provider of entertainment, information and communications products and services. With 24.7 million cable customers, 14.1 million high-speed Internet customers, and 5.2 million voice customers, Comcast is principally involved in the development, management and operation of broadband cable systems and in the delivery of programming content.

Comcast's content networks and investments include E! Entertainment Television, Style Network, The Golf Channel, VERSUS, G4, PBS KIDS Sprout, TV One, ten Comcast SportsNet networks and Comcast Interactive Media, which develops and operates Comcast's Internet business. Comcast also has a majority ownership in Comcast-Spectacor, whose major holdings include the Philadelphia Flyers NHL hockey team, the Philadelphia 76ers NBA basketball team and two large multipurpose arenas in Philadelphia.

About the Big Ten Network
The Big Ten Network is dedicated to covering the Big Ten Conference and its 11 member institutions. The Big Ten Network provides unprecedented access to an extensive schedule of conference sports events and shows; original programs in academics, the arts and sciences; campus activities; and associated personalities. Sports programming includes live coverage of more major men's and women's events than ever before, along with news, highlights and analysis, all complemented by hours of university-produced campus programming. The network is available to all cable and satellite carriers and television distributors nationwide, with most programs offered in stunning high-definition television (HDTV). The Big Ten Network is a joint venture between subsidiaries of the Big Ten Conference and Fox Cable Networks.

http://bigten.cstv.com/genrel/061908aac.html

Marcus Carr

06-19-08, 03:50 PM

Comcast's digital customers in the Big Ten states will also have immediate access to live Big Ten games and events in high definition, Big Ten programming via Comcast's video-on-demand platform, and a wide array of conference-related content through Comcast.net.

Outside of the Big Ten states that Comcast serves, Comcast has the option to provide Big Ten Network programming on any level of service, including its Sports Entertainment Package.

Sounds like most of us won't get the HD games.

blitzen102

06-19-08, 03:51 PM

Sounds like most of us won't get the HD games.

I WILL!!!

;)

Marcus Carr

06-19-08, 04:06 PM

Comcast changing channels: Goal is to add more hi-def programming

(The Dominion Post in Morgantown (WV)(KRT) Via Acquire Media NewsEdge) Jun. 19--Comcast cable customers will notice a few channel changes next month, officials said Wednesday.

Comcast will be shuffling some channels and moving a few others to its digital service, starting July 17, said Bob Grove, manager of public relations for Comcast's Three Rivers Region. In all, the company will change 18 channels, drop one and add eight new channels to the line-up.

Grove said the channel changes add more digital programming and will allow more high-definition channels in Comcast's service. He said that since analog signals take up more bandwidth on the cable lines, switching from analog to digital should allow a larger variety of programming.

"Because of the strong customer demand for additional HD programming, we have committed to offer more than 1,000 HD choices by the end of this year, more than any other video provider," Grove said. "To deliver this enhancement and continue to introduce advanced digital services and faster Internet speeds, we are adjusting the carriage of a small number of analog cable networks, moving them to our digital lineup."

Comcast's changes will move MSNBC, Oxygen, Ion and Tru TV from the Standard Cable package to a digital level service. Customers will have to pay more for a higher service level to receive those channels.

Hallmark Channel, TV Guide Network and EWTN will still be offered at the Basic Cable level, but will now be broadcast digitally, Grove said. Customers will be required to use a digital converter box or CableCard to get the digital channels. Grove said Comcast is offering a converter box rental free for 12 months so there is no extra cost for customers.

PIN channel will be dropped, and 11 stations, such as the Food Network, Golf Channel and BET are changing channel numbers.

New offerings will be Ion Life, Qubo, WPMY HD, WPCW HD, AMC HD, Animal Planet HD and TLC HD. All of the new channels will require a digital cable box or a CableCard, Grove said.

Grove said the majority of Comcast's customers already have digital service, or a digital converter box, so they likely will not be affected by the changes.

"This move will not impact the majority of our customers who are already experiencing the choice and control of digital cable and will continue to receive this programming without interruption," Grove said in a statement.

For many years, cities had some power to determine which channels were available and how much cable companies charged as part of the city's franchise agreements, Morgantown City Manager Dan Boroff said.

But now cable service is largely unregulated.

"It's their business decision," Boroff said. "You know, 20 or 30 years ago, the federal government said cable TV companies had true monopolies. Today, with direct television, that monopoly no longer exists; therefore, people do have choices."

http://www.tmcnet.com/usubmit/2008/06/19/3507273.htm

Marty Milton

06-19-08, 06:16 PM

It will be interesting to see when the BTN is added to our system here in Champaign-Urbana, IL and if the channel will be available in HD right away, as they are promising.

JDLIVE

06-19-08, 06:38 PM

Pretty vague statement about outside the B10 area, they have the "option" to carry it on any service level, and the sports tier makes sense, but is it definite they'll offer it? :confused:

GM_Bullfrog

06-19-08, 07:27 PM

I just noticed they added AMC HD (429) in the Jacksonville, FL area. There isn't any guide data yet.

Doom878

06-20-08, 09:21 AM

Still no word on ESPNewsHD for anyone?

donn35

06-20-08, 03:34 PM

Still no word on ESPNewsHD for anyone?

No, Comcast still has a long way to go to add more HD channels, especially since Direct Tv will be increasing their HD programming in the fall once their new satellite began operating. There are a lot of channels that Comcast still haven't added e.g. FX, Cartoon Network, Speed, Spike, Nick, Biography, CNBC, Fox Business, Toon Disney, etc. It took them almost a year to finally add the Big 10 Network on August 15, 2008 & it might take them sometime in 2009 or 2010 to add the channels that other carriers are providing at the moment.

Spartan2k88

06-20-08, 09:42 PM

Still no word on ESPNewsHD for anyone?

NO!!! And no Weather Channel HD either....ugh!

Marcus Carr

06-21-08, 08:54 PM

New channels for Howard County, MD effective 7/9:

ABC Family HD
Disney HD
WGN HD
WUTB (My Network TV) HD
Science HD

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=14131505#post14131505

Cubbies_26

06-22-08, 07:18 PM

New channels for Howard County, MD effective 7/9:

ABC Family HD
Disney HD
WGN HD
WUTB (My Network TV) HD
Science HD

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=14131505#post14131505

I have been waiting for Comcast to add WGN America HD in Fort Wayne, Indiana for quite awhile now. If they are offering this to you in Maryland, I would think those of us in the Midwest will be seeing it soon too (Chicago sports teams are local here). Thanks for posting the good news.

Bill Geiger

06-22-08, 09:29 PM

ABC-Family & Disney are really complete wastes of HD space.

jrcorwin

06-22-08, 11:52 PM

I am in an area that used to be Insight Communications rather than Comcast. We are behind the curve compared to the local traditional Comcast markets. We have no HD On Demand content (with the exception of one and only one pay-per-view movie).

On the plus side, we do receive HDNet and HDNet Movies. At this point I would settle for Discovery HD rather than HD Theater.

Here is the current lineup for Greenfield/Noblesville/Anderson, IN:

906 NBC HDTV-WTHR HD
908 ABC HDTV-WRTV HD
910 FOX HDTV-WXIN HD
912 CBS HDTV-WISH HD
914 CW HDTV-WTTV HD
916 PBS DIGITAL-WFYI HD
919 CNN HD
921 VSGLF HD
922 FSNHD
923 ESPN HDTV
924 ESPN2 HD
925 TNT IN HD
927 NGCHD
928 HD Net
930 DISNEY HD
931 FAMILY HD
935 Discovery HDTV (Theater)
937 UNIVERSAL HD
940 A&E HD
942 HGTV HD
943 FOOD HD
945 MHD
949 HD Net Movies
951 AMC HD
952 HBO EAST HD
953 STARZ HD
954 Showtime East HD

bicker1

06-23-08, 06:17 AM

ABC-Family & Disney are really complete wastes of HD space.... for people who don't enjoy the HD programming that the channels do present.

I feel the same way about ESPN. A big waste of bandwidth.

Morac

06-23-08, 11:27 AM

... for people who don't enjoy the HD programming that the channels do present.

I feel the same way about ESPN. A big waste of bandwidth.

I don't watch ESPN either, but at least the is programming on it in HD. ABC Family HD has little if any HD programming (not even upscaled) so it's not any different than ABC Family. Disney Channel HD does have a handful of HD programming, but from what I've seen it is basically upscaled versions of their normal programming and mainly only their cartoons.

So that's why they are a waste.

bicker1

06-23-08, 12:54 PM

I don't watch ESPN either, but at least the is programming on it in HD. ABC Family HD has little if any HD programming (not even upscaled) so it's not any different than ABC Family.ABC Family has Greek and Kyle XY, both in HD, while ESPN has nothing that we care to watch. Which is why having ABC Family HD wouldn't be a waste.

swdude12

06-23-08, 01:19 PM

... for people who don't enjoy the HD programming that the channels do present.

I feel the same way about ESPN. A big waste of bandwidth.

You obviously dont watch sports then and that is why you think its a waste of bandwidth. Sports in HD is amazing. Majority of guys i would say watch ESPN, ESPN2 and ESPNnews. Atleast every guy i know.

Daniel Murray

06-23-08, 01:45 PM

I don't watch ESPN either, but at least the is programming on it in HD. ABC Family HD has little if any HD programming (not even upscaled) so it's not any different than ABC Family. Disney Channel HD does have a handful of HD programming, but from what I've seen it is basically upscaled versions of their normal programming and mainly only their cartoons.

So that's why they are a waste.
At least you have the channels. :mad:

wareagle

06-23-08, 01:50 PM

ABC Family has Greek and Kyle XY, both in HD...

Not any time in the near future.

hcady

06-23-08, 01:51 PM

I think bicker1 was just trying to make a point. Different strokes for different folks. For me the more HD channels the better. Give the new channels a chance to increase HD programs. I'm sure we all will find something good to watch.

jrcorwin

06-23-08, 01:52 PM

Greek & Kyle XY....high demand entertainment let me tell ya. :rolleyes:

wareagle

06-23-08, 02:29 PM

Greek & Kyle XY....high demand entertainment let me tell ya. :rolleyes:

This seems like a perfect application for OnDemand HD.

jrcorwin

06-23-08, 02:42 PM

This seems like a perfect application for OnDemand HD.
If I actually had HD On Demand. Unfortunately, I am in an area formerly services by Insight. To Comcast...it's like we don't even exist. They can't find my address...they can't find my programming packages...they have no clue what is happening or when.

wareagle

06-23-08, 02:46 PM

If I actually had HD On Demand...

But then that is yet another problem.

jrcorwin

06-23-08, 02:52 PM

But then that is yet another problem.

Yep. Speaking of problems...

About 20 minutes ago I was taking advantage of the Comcast online chat feature for support. The employee was unable to answer my question. So, she was going to give me the number for my local Comcast office. Instead...she have me the contact info for a office in New Jersey. I told her that was wrong because I live in Indiana. She then gave me two alternate numbers...both in New Jersey and said that these were the office that corresponded to my address. I told her that those offices were more than 600 miles from my home. NOW HERE COMES THE KICKER....She then posted a full and complete address on the chat. It was not my address. It was the address of another customer. She had the wrong account pulled up even though I gave her my account number. She didn't seem to think this was a big deal. So, I used that address to look up that person's name and phone number to show her what a problem this could become for her.

ak3883

06-23-08, 03:26 PM

No, Comcast still has a long way to go to add more HD channels, especially since Direct Tv will be increasing their HD programming in the fall once their new satellite began operating. There are a lot of channels that Comcast still haven't added e.g. FX, Cartoon Network, Speed, Spike, Nick, Biography, CNBC, Fox Business, Toon Disney, etc. It took them almost a year to finally add the Big 10 Network on August 15, 2008 & it might take them sometime in 2009 or 2010 to add the channels that other carriers are providing at the moment.

The reason the poster asked about ESPNEWSHD is because Comcast DOES have a carriage agreement with them, but it has not been seen in any markets. Same deal with Weather Channel HD, although i believe a few markets(incl. Boston) have it.

You are right though, Comcast is far behind in having agreements for many HD channels that Directv does have agreements to carry.

blitzen102

06-23-08, 04:05 PM

The reason the poster asked about ESPNEWSHD is because Comcast DOES have a carriage agreement with them, but it has not been seen in any markets. Same deal with Weather Channel HD, although i believe a few markets(incl. Boston) have it.

You are right though, Comcast is far behind in having agreements for many HD channels that Directv does have agreements to carry.

...but for the Big Ten Network, Comcast held out and negotiated a much better deal than what BTN was first proposing. Comcast saved us all money by not just paying what BTN was initially demanding.

MickeyGee

06-23-08, 04:13 PM

Yep. Speaking of problems...
....She then posted a full and complete address on the chat. It was not my address. It was the address of another customer. She had the wrong account pulled up even though I gave her my account number...
You've been Comcasted! Anything else we can help you with today?

Mickey

QZ1

06-23-08, 04:52 PM

ABC Family has Greek and Kyle XY, both in HD,
Also, Middleman.

wareagle

06-23-08, 07:08 PM

Also, Middleman.

You're right. It isn't listed as HD (nothing on that channel seems to be), but I just checked it and it is HD.

bicker1

06-24-08, 05:12 AM

And hilarious!

I'll take two ABC Family's over ten sports channels. Sports is for doing, not watching IMHO.

wsbeeler

06-24-08, 11:36 AM

We got a notice this morning on the box here in Knoxville that ABC Family HD and Disney HD are coming June 16.

It is now June 24 and these channels are still not here. Why bother sending out the messages in early May if they can't meet the time?

blitzen102

06-24-08, 12:16 PM

It is now June 24 and these channels are still not here. Why bother sending out the messages in early May if they can't meet the time?

Sometimes some STBs don't get the new channels activated. Have you called, or do you know for sure that no one in your area got them?

JDLIVE

06-24-08, 01:19 PM

Comcast saved us all money by not just paying what BTN was initially demanding.

Think they'll pass along those "savings"? :D

IIRC the initial asking price was around $1.10 per sub and it ended up around $.80, so they did negotiate down, which was inevitable.

michaelk

06-24-08, 04:39 PM

I can't speak specifically to comcast or cable but i do know what directv has said publically in their investor conference calls and presentations and I assume it's similar.

In a nut shell- despite all the public hand wringing otherwise by the "middlemen"- directv's cost/sub for content has consistanly dropped as a percentage of revenue over the years. So MOST of the price increases all the providers have been doing over the years are not just about the cost of the channels they give us.

COnsidering comcast has more subs I'd assume they are in a similar position...

michaelk

06-24-08, 04:40 PM

Think they'll pass along those "savings"? :D

IIRC the initial asking price was around $1.10 per sub and it ended up around $.80, so they did negotiate down, which was inevitable.

I think most of the big providers (eg directv for sure) typically get most favored nation status added to their contracts. So the funny thing is now that comcast drove the price down 20 cents directv also will get the discount.

JamesDax

06-24-08, 10:15 PM

And hilarious!

I'll take two ABC Family's over ten sports channels. Sports is for doing, not watching IMHO.

:rolleyes:

CardassianVol

06-25-08, 02:03 AM

It is now June 24 and these channels are still not here. Why bother sending out the messages in early May if they can't meet the time?

Seriously. Has anyone called Comcast about this?

jrcorwin

06-25-08, 09:14 AM

Here in Indiana we have a situation that I like to call...an information black hole. Comcast has taken over the local Insight customers and the transition has progressed slowly during the last several months. We are still serviced by the same employees. They just answer the phones with a different tag line now. The former Insight employees are incredible. They treat you like they are your neighbor and they are so honest and realistic when giving you information. They tell you things that other Cable companies probably wouldn't tell customers. Comcast is slow in getting the information about changes to these employees and if you call a traditional Comcast office...they hardly even know we exist.

Anyway...enough with my rant. I spoke with several people yesterday regarding upcoming changes in the service for our area. I was told more than once that there is a meeting held each week in the local (former Insight) offices. They ask their supervisors they same questions that we call and ask them. When will we get more HD? They were told this week that several more HD channels would be added in July. They have not yet been told how many, which ones, or on when in July. I have two thoughts on what may happen...

1. Many, many, many of the former Insight customers are located in what are basically suburbs of Indianapolis. Indianapolis customers have several HD channels which we do not have:

NFL-HD
DSC-HD (we already have Discovery HD Theater...this is Discovery HD)
APL-HD
SCIFI-HD
USA-HD
TBS-HD
HDDM (HD On Demand)
SCI-HD
HSTRY-HD
MAX-HD

I can't think of anything off the top of my head that isn't in that list...that could be added locally. I wonder if any or all of these are planned for July? Some of these channels are included in my next thought.

2. There are several channels in particular which we already have and are digital, but not HD. On particular shows on these channels (programs which are available in HD) there is a very interesting set of letters included in the "info". It says, "HD". This notation does not appear on all channels which have an HD version/twin...only a few:

DSC-HD
APL-HD
SCIFI-HD
USA-HD
TBS-HD
SCI-HD
HSTRY-HD

I have not checked NFL Network or Cinemax.

Could it be that these channels are being prepped for HD and that is why "HD" is listed at the being of the info for some programs? I'd be happy to gain one or two of those if I get to keep HDNet Movies. I'm paying $6.99 or $7.99 just for HDNet and HDNet Movies.

Cubbies_26

06-25-08, 11:09 AM

2. There are several channels in particular which we already have and are digital, but not HD. On particular shows on these channels (programs which are available in HD) there is a very interesting set of letters included in the "info". It says, "HD". This notation does not appear on all channels which have an HD version/twin...only a few:

DSC-HD
APL-HD
SCIFI-HD
USA-HD
TBS-HD
SCI-HD
HSTRY-HD

I have not checked NFL Network or Cinemax.

Could it be that these channels are being prepped for HD and that is why "HD" is listed at the being of the info for some programs? I'd be happy to gain one or two of those if I get to keep HDNet Movies. I'm paying $6.99 or $7.99 just for HDNet and HDNet Movies.[/QUOTE]

I'm not sure about the first part of the question you asked, but I can answer the part about "HD" being mentioned in the info for certain programs. All that means is that the channel you are watching broadcasts certain shows in HD, and that show is one of them. It doesn't mean you get that HD channel or will ever get it----almost like a tease saying "This show is being broadcast in beautiful HD---too bad you can't see it." I have been asking for our local Comcast office to add Comcast Sportsnet Chicago HD and WGN America HD for 2 years now, and always see the "HD" in the description of Cubs and Sox games, but I know this is just a pipe dream for me.

It is also interesting to see the "HD" in show descriptions for channels like Spike TV, where I had no idea they even broadcast in HD, and I'm not sure if any Comcast markets receive this channel in HD.

jrcorwin

06-25-08, 11:32 AM

2. There are several channels in particular which we already have and are digital, but not HD. On particular shows on these channels (programs which are available in HD) there is a very interesting set of letters included in the "info". It says, "HD". This notation does not appear on all channels which have an HD version/twin...only a few:

DSC-HD
APL-HD
SCIFI-HD
USA-HD
TBS-HD
SCI-HD
HSTRY-HD

I have not checked NFL Network or Cinemax.

Could it be that these channels are being prepped for HD and that is why "HD" is listed at the being of the info for some programs? I'd be happy to gain one or two of those if I get to keep HDNet Movies. I'm paying $6.99 or $7.99 just for HDNet and HDNet Movies.

I'm not sure about the first part of the question you asked, but I can answer the part about "HD" being mentioned in the info for certain programs. All that means is that the channel you are watching broadcasts certain shows in HD, and that show is one of them. It doesn't mean you get that HD channel or will ever get it----almost like a tease saying "This show is being broadcast in beautiful HD---too bad you can't see it." I have been asking for our local Comcast office to add Comcast Sportsnet Chicago HD and WGN America HD for 2 years now, and always see the "HD" in the description of Cubs and Sox games, but I know this is just a pipe dream for me.

It is also interesting to see the "HD" in show descriptions for channels like Spike TV, where I had no idea they even broadcast in HD, and I'm not sure if any Comcast markets receive this channel in HD.[/QUOTE]

Oh ok...well...I thought it was too good to be true. I hadn't noticed it on any other channels. I also hadn't checked either. I wasn't sure if just meant that those channels happen to have an HD version available somewhere or if it was related to new HD coming to the area next month. Thanks for the info.

Cubbies_26

06-25-08, 03:36 PM

Oh ok...well...I thought it was too good to be true. I hadn't noticed it on any other channels. I also hadn't checked either. I wasn't sure if just meant that those channels happen to have an HD version available somewhere or if it was related to new HD coming to the area next month. Thanks for the info.[/QUOTE]

I guess the only positive thing about this would be that if you see the HD symbol in a show's description and you aren't getting that show in HD, you could start making requests to Comcast to carry the specific HD channel that carries the show you are interested in (though the HD channel request process has proven to be quite frustrating for me---be prepared to receive a ton of canned statements unless you are lucky enough to deal with a customer service rep. that know their stuff). Good Luck

Marty Milton

06-25-08, 06:09 PM

nakedeye

06-25-08, 09:27 PM

Anyone notice the change in the labeling of StarzHD? It's now listed as Strz1H.

Interesting

Marty Milton

06-26-08, 11:03 AM

Anyone notice the change in the labeling of StarzHD? It's now listed as Strz1H.

Interesting
All of the Starz SD channels are now numbered as well. They have done the same thing for their Encore Channels - e.g. Encore Love is now just labelled Encore 3.

jrcorwin

06-26-08, 01:12 PM

Anyone notice the change in the labeling of StarzHD? It's now listed as Strz1H.

InterestingI noticed that also. Strange...

Marcus Carr

06-27-08, 02:14 PM

Baltimore to add Big Ten Network, no word on HD yet.

http://www.baltimoresun.com/sports/bal-sp.frager27jun27,0,6583511.column

Cubbies_26

06-29-08, 11:57 AM

I just noticed a new HD channel for our Comcast system here in Champaign-Urbana, IL. It is the Science Channel. It was not mentioned in the list of 15-16 HD channels that were added a couple of months ago. The Science HD Channel is located right in the middle of the premium channels, right below Cinemax. You really have to look for it, to find it.

Two of the HD channels that were added a couple of months ago were Comcast Sportsnet Chicago and WGN. Maybe they will be coming to Indiana soon.

The frustrating thing about Comcast Sportsnet Chicago HD is that they do offer it in parts of Indiana, but there seems to be no rhyme or reason to where they offer it in HD. I live in Fort Wayne, and though we are in the viewing area for the channel (we get the non HD version) we don't get an HD feed. I looked on the Comcast Sportsnet Chicago webpage, and they have a listing of all the cities in Indiana who are in the viewing area, and who gets what(SD,HD, Comcast Sports +, etc.). There are 58 cities in Indiana that get the channel in HD (all smaller markets than Fort Wayne) and only 7 that don't. Both Fort Wayne and Lafayette are on the list of those that don't, and you would think Comcast would want these larger markets having access to the channel. I honestly believe someone dropped that ball awhile back for Comcast, and for whatever reason (red tape, lack of effort) won't pull the trigger on adding the HD version of the channel in certain markets. Good times

Ken H

06-29-08, 12:35 PM

I honestly believe someone dropped that ball awhile back for Comcast, and for whatever reason (red tape, lack of effort) won't pull the trigger on adding the HD version of the channel in certain markets.If the SD version is available, then it's a matter of bandwidth.

Cubbies_26

06-29-08, 02:32 PM

If the SD version is available, then it's a matter of bandwidth.

The thing is that I have been requesting the addition of that channel and WGN America HD(or Superstation) for about 2 years now----I have heard the same reasoning concerning bandwidth from Comcast service agents before, but in the two years I have been waiting for the additions of these channels, Comcast has been able to add countless other HD channels to our lineup. Maybe they are running low on bandwidth space now, but there were times during the two years I've been making the requests that there was enough space to add the channels I wanted, and for whatever reason, Comcast chose not to. I guess it's possible that I'm the only one requesting the addition of these HD channels, but I just don't see why they would be available in so many other cities in our viewing area, and not Fort Wayne.

bob2274

06-30-08, 07:06 PM

I went through that a couple years ago. CSN (DC) HD was available everywhere north of me, but no one at Comcast would answer me as to when it would be available and/or why we couldn't get it. Finally, it just appeared one day with no announcement before or after.

Cubbies_26

06-30-08, 07:53 PM

Ken H

06-30-08, 08:11 PM

I guess it's possible that I'm the only one requesting the addition of these HD channels, but I just don't see why they would be available in so many other cities in our viewing area, and not Fort Wayne.Once you understand that all HD delivery systems are limited by bandwidth, then it comes down to what the carrier thinks will sell more subscriptions, and keep current subs happy.

I can't explain why you haven't seen the HD channel(s) you are looking for, but I would suggest finding out & contacting the local Comcast manager, at the local Comcast business office. They are, at least, the right person to place a request with.

Cubbies_26

07-01-08, 05:14 PM

I can't explain why you haven't seen the HD channel(s) you are looking for, but I would suggest finding out & contacting the local Comcast manager, at the local Comcast business office. They are, at least, the right person to place a request with.[/QUOTE]

Is the business office located in a different building than the normal Comcast office (where one can pick up and drop off equipment)? I have put in for a request at the normal Comcast office, but it seemed as if the people who took my request had no idea what to do with it. Thanks

michaelk

07-02-08, 11:52 AM

so this tidbit in the multichannel article about the DTA rollout:

http://www.multichannel.com/article/CA6573422.html?desc=topstory

“Right now even though we say we have 1,000 high-def options on-demand, the fact that DirecTV can say, ‘We have 100 HD channels and no one else does’ -- that’s not a place we want to stay in,” Burke said.

unfortunately looks like they only plan to do something about it in 20% of their markets at the end of the year. And perhaps twice that many in 2009. So might be 2-3+ years till everyone gets there.

Now everyone cross your fingers and hope you get to be in one of the markets picked....

falling5tarr

07-02-08, 02:40 PM

Comcast in Naples FL has just added 3 more HD channels to the lineup :

Family Channel HD
Disney Channel HD
Science Channel HD

dvdmth

07-02-08, 03:54 PM

unfortunately looks like they only plan to do something about it in 20% of their markets at the end of the year. And perhaps twice that many in 2009. So might be 2-3+ years till everyone gets there.

Comcast is also expected to roll out Switched Digital Video in 15% of their markets by the end of this year, and where I live (Denver) is supposed to be among them. That baing said, it still leaves 65% of their markets seeing no major bandwidth improvements this year.

Supposedly we should've received SDV by now were it not for complications in the rollout of the new IGuide software (A25).

blitzen102

07-02-08, 04:28 PM

Comcast is also expected to roll out Switched Digital Video in 15% of their markets by the end of this year, and where I live (Denver) is supposed to be among them. That baing said, it still leaves 65% of their markets seeing no major bandwidth improvements this year.

Supposedly we should've received SDV by now were it not for complications in the rollout of the new IGuide software (A25).

65% of their "markets" is meaningless. What would be interesting to know is how many (or what percentage of) their subscribers will be getting the major bandwidth improvements.

It is likely that some of Comcast's newly aquired systems where they are still trying to get the infrastructure up to snuff would be the ones not getting the major improvemnts.

donn35

07-03-08, 12:31 AM

Just read the articles from tvpredictions.com (http://tvpredictions.com)that both Verizon Fios & Cablevision are adding a slew of HD channels this month & early August. Comcast haven't mention to their customers when or what channels they're adding. The last channel I got was Science Channel back in May. Comcast is full of b.s.

bicker1

07-03-08, 06:41 AM

Indeed, FiOS will start coming close to the number of HD channels that Comcast already has. :rolleyes:

jrcorwin

07-03-08, 08:21 AM

We got a new HD channel yesterday!!! Oh...wait...it's a PBS channel. We already have one...this is another one. Nevermind...

Daniel Murray

07-03-08, 08:38 AM

jrcorwin

07-03-08, 09:00 AM

I have not seen any HD channels added in more than a year. It just blows my mind that no one at Comcast knows whats going on. All they say is your at least one or two years away from getting any new HD channels. But boy my bill keeps going up.

That is what gets my blood boiling. It's bad enough that Comcast is so bad at passing information on to the customers, but they can't even inform their own employees. They keep everyone in he dark including front line personnel. It's just an incredibly poor way to run a business. I couldn't work for a company that didn't give me vital information that would be useful when speaking with paying customers.

Marcus Carr

07-03-08, 09:35 AM

Baltimore's My Network TV afilliate (WUTB) has been added in the HD section, but it's 480i right now. The station recently stopped broadcasting a stretched 720p signal and is upgrading to HD.

jrcorwin

07-03-08, 12:33 PM

Morac

07-03-08, 12:36 PM

Comcast is also expected to roll out Switched Digital Video in 15% of their markets by the end of this year, and where I live (Denver) is supposed to be among them. That baing said, it still leaves 65% of their markets seeing no major bandwidth improvements this year.

Supposedly we should've received SDV by now were it not for complications in the rollout of the new IGuide software (A25).

According to this article (http://www.lightreading.com/document.asp?doc_id=158098&site=cdn) Comcast is expanding their SDV trials to include Minneapolis and St. Paul. The article also suggests that Comcast has scaled back their plan to deploy SDV to 15% of their markets by years end.

bicker1

07-03-08, 03:54 PM

It's just an incredibly poor way to run a business. I couldn't work for a company that didn't give me vital information that would be useful when speaking with paying customers.Actually, it is often a good way to run a business. In consumer situations, information that is subject to change is often better off withheld. Indeed, often the reason why information is withheld from employees is to ensure it is not provided to customers.

jrcorwin

07-03-08, 04:02 PM

Actually, it is often a good way to run a business. In consumer situations, information that is subject to change is often better off withheld. Indeed, often the reason why information is withheld from employees is to ensure it is not provided to customers.

Well, I disagree. Different strokes for different folks I guess. In my line of work...that just wouldn't fly.

Ken H

07-03-08, 04:31 PM

As I just mentioned earlier today...my main issue is a lack of communication. A lack of communication between the Comcast employees in the know and the Comcast employees who deal with customers daily. Obviously, someone knows what HD channels are coming...when and where. The lack of information is maddening. I've had enough. I'm calling corporate, I'm writing letters, I've just sent emails to everyone I can find.Don't expect much of a reply. Comcast, like other multichannel providers, is notorious for not providing this kind of info in advance of the channels actually being available. Having somewhat of an inside view, I can tell you it's a lot more complicated than you may know.

Whether you agree with it or not, Comcast has decided to provide little to no info about new HD channels, rather than provide info now which could turn out later to be wrong.

bicker1

07-03-08, 05:00 PM

Well, I disagree. Different strokes for different folks I guess. In my line of work...that just wouldn't fly.Nor mine, but I bet neither of us run consumer-facing mega-conglomerates.

shishghate

07-03-08, 09:16 PM

According to this article (http://www.lightreading.com/document.asp?doc_id=158098&site=cdn) Comcast is expanding their SDV trials to include Minneapolis and St. Paul. The article also suggests that Comcast has scaled back their plan to deploy SDV to 15% of their markets by years end.

Awww crap...

Now I have to get on Comcasts case for the dongle for my TiVoHD.

Cubbies_26

07-07-08, 10:51 AM

Some new Comcast HD information---the article is kind of general with no real details, but at least they are moving in the right direction

http://www.tvpredictions.com/comcast070708.htm

Doom878

07-07-08, 11:02 AM

"I think HD channels are more important than HD choices,” Eagan told Multichannel News. “I think people want HD channels, not just HD On Demand.”

Church

boo

07-07-08, 11:08 AM

Some new Comcast HD information---the article is kind of general with no real details, but at least they are moving in the right direction

http://www.tvpredictions.com/comcast070708.htm

From that link-

Thomas Eagan, a senior media analyst with Collins Stewart, an investment banking group, says Comcast has concluded that it needs to add more high-def channels.

Wow, I wonder how much he was paid to figure that one out.:rolleyes:

I told them the exact same thing when I dropped off my boxes when I canceled Comcast and went to D*, I didn't get paid for giving them that info.

The next bit of logic to come out of this guy is folks don't like the HD picture quality lately.

SeattleAl

07-07-08, 01:01 PM

Some analyst should tell Comcast that they will never catch up to D* as long as they don't carry HDNet and D* does.

Marty Milton

07-07-08, 01:05 PM

Some analyst should tell Comcast that they will never catch up to D* as long as they don't carry HDNet and D* does.
Our local Comcast system has HDNet and HDNet Movies channels. We probably have it because it was available when our local provider was switched from Insight to Comcast. HDNet and HDNet Movie channels are not cheap, though. Comcast is charging an extra $6.99 for just those two channels.

jrcorwin

07-07-08, 01:22 PM

Our local Comcast system has HDNet and HDNet Movies channels. We probably have it because it was available when our local provider was switched from Insight to Comcast. HDNet and HDNet Movie channels are not cheap, though. Comcast is charging an extra $6.99 for just those two channels.

Same here. I wasn't sure that HDNet Movies was going to be woth $6.99/month, but it sure will be this month. Great lineup for July.

Ken H

07-07-08, 01:24 PM

chitchatjf

07-07-08, 05:09 PM

Our local Comcast system has HDNet and HDNet Movies channels. We probably have it because it was available when our local provider was switched from Insight to Comcast. HDNet and HDNet Movie channels are not cheap, though. Comcast is charging an extra $6.99 for just those two channels.

$6.99? A little high in MY opinion considering the "wholesale" price is $1.10.

That is one of the main reasons i'm switching to Fios.

keenan

07-07-08, 05:37 PM

$6.99? A little high in MY opinion considering the "wholesale" price is $1.10.

That is one of the main reasons i'm switching to Fios.

I'm pretty sure Comcast charges the highest rates in the country for premium channels as well with HBO and SHO running about $18 a piece while the DBS companies are around $12. Comcast charges around 3 times what it costs them for those channels.

dean-l

07-07-08, 05:43 PM

QZ1

07-07-08, 06:05 PM

Marty Milton

07-07-08, 07:28 PM

Here, Comcast sells Premiums for $20.:eek::(

I am looking at the latest price list from Comcast for our area and they are charging $14 for HBO and Showtime, and $11 for Starz, Cinemax, and The Movie Channel. I am definitely planning to cancel HD Net channels

Daniel Murray

07-07-08, 07:55 PM

I am looking at the latest price list from Comcast for our area and they are charging $14 for HBO and Showtime, and $11 for Starz, Cinemax, and The Movie Channel. I am definitely planning to cancel HD Net channels

That is alot less than what they around me :mad:

sgtjim

07-07-08, 08:54 PM

In Charles Co. Md they have added AMC HD; CNN HD and Animal Planet HD effective 7/1/08 although it wasn't available to me until 7/6/08 after I called.
They called by phone and put a message on the box.

chitchatjf

07-07-08, 11:54 PM

I'm pretty sure Comcast charges the highest rates in the country for premium channels as well with HBO and SHO running about $18 a piece while the DBS companies are around $12. Comcast charges around 3 times what it costs them for those channels.

Who gets them ala carte?

$15.50 for one
$11 for a second
$14 more brings them all.

15 years ago I was paying $30 a month for ONE channel each of HBO Cinemax Showtime and TMC.

JamesDax

07-08-08, 05:55 AM

Where the hell is Sci-Fi HD for Philadelphia???

Oh, and Discovery HD and USA HD channels as well.

Marcus Carr

07-09-08, 08:08 AM

New HD channels in Baltimore:

WGN
Science
Disney
ABC Family

Not yet authorized as of this morning. Current lineup:

210 ABC
211 NBC
212 CBS
213 FOX
214 CW
215 MNTV
216 WGN
217 Science
218 AMC
220 PBS
223 A&E
224 National Geographic
225 HD Theater
226 MOJO
227 MHD
228 HBO
229 HGTV
231 Food
232 TBS
233 Cinemax
234 CNN
235 USA
236 Sci-Fi
237 History
238 Showtime
239 Discovery Channel
240 TLC
241 Animal Planet
244 Disney
245 ABC Family
248 Starz
249 TNT
250 Universal
251 Comcast SportsNet
252 ESPN
253 ESPN2
254 Versus/Golf

Marcus Carr

07-10-08, 08:24 AM

And amazingly, the Comcast website already has these listed in the lineup.

DVDO+WESTY=1080p

07-10-08, 10:58 AM

have exact same lineup in Manassas VA so I expect WGN to be added here as well thanks

210 ABC
211 NBC
212 CBS
213 FOX
214 CW
215 MNTV
216 WGN
217 Science
218 AMC
220 PBS
223 A&E
224 National Geographic
225 HD Theater
226 MOJO
227 MHD
228 HBO
229 HGTV
230 HD On Demand
231 Food
232 TBS
233 Cinemax
234 CNN
235 USA
236 Sci-Fi
237 History
238 Showtime
239 Discovery Channel
240 TLC
241 Animal Planet
244 Disney
245 ABC Family
246 NFL Network
248 Starz
249 TNT
250 Universal
251 Comcast SportsNet
252 ESPN
253 ESPN2
254 Versus/Gol

Marcus Carr

07-11-08, 08:19 AM

The Movie Channel, SHO TOO coming to Comcast.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=14236890&highlight=tmc#post14236890

jrusnak

07-11-08, 12:11 PM

The Movie Channel, SHO TOO coming to Comcast.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=14236890&highlight=tmc#post14236890

But only in selected areas. Still no word of ANY channels coming to North NJ.

Morac

07-11-08, 01:48 PM

Comcast still hasn't added all the existing HD channels to all areas. I only get about 90% of the HD channels listed a few posts up.

Daniel Murray

07-11-08, 05:47 PM

You still get more than me!

JamesDax

07-13-08, 12:07 AM

Where the frak is Sci-Fi HD, USA HD and Discovery HD for Philadelphia??

bicker1

07-13-08, 07:36 AM

Some analyst should tell Comcast that they will never catch up to D* as long as they don't carry HDNet and D* does.HDNet.... bleh. FX HD is all that really matters, AFAIC.

bicker1

07-13-08, 07:37 AM

$6.99? A little high in MY opinion considering the "wholesale" price is $1.10.No, not really. Figure would you prefer to get $1.10 from a million people or $6.99 from ten thousand people?

JamesDax

07-13-08, 08:42 AM

HDNet.... bleh. FX HD is all that really matters, AFAIC.

I'll take FX HD, HDNet and lets add Spike HD to the mix.

smithfarmer

07-13-08, 04:38 PM

FX HD.... bleh. HDNet is all that really matters, AFAIC.

porkys8077

07-13-08, 05:28 PM

I'll take FX HD, HDNet and lets add Spike HD to the mix.

I agree.

dean-l

07-13-08, 11:43 PM

FX HD.... bleh. HDNet is all that really matters, AFAIC.

I went through a week of programming of HDNet to see what the hub-bub is all about.

Except Hogan's Heroes, I don't get it.

A lot of stuff that is on different channels.
Xtremely Hick Wrestling; I guess it's better than "pro" wrestling.
Trailers, trailers, trailers....
Joan of Arcadia is on SciFi.
Trailers, trailers....
Smallville?
Trailers....
A little NASCAR.
More trailers...
Women in bikini/lingerie shows(poor man's porn)
Major League Soccer.

Lifetime for men.

jrcorwin

07-13-08, 11:54 PM

HDNet...I could care less. The only thing I care to watch on there are shuttle launches and trailers now and then.

HDNet Movies...now that's another story. I'd take that over several other channels.

smithfarmer

07-14-08, 11:14 PM

jrcorwin

07-14-08, 11:18 PM

I used to have HDNet and HDNet Movies until Comcast took over from Adelphia as my cable provider and immediately dropped them from the lineup. It's been over a year and when I think back on it, I remember my HDNet viewing being somewhat limited to their news shows, some documentaries and occasionally, Bikini Destinations. ;)

HDNet Movies is the channel that I really miss.

HDNet of course has a show of just trailers. I've had my DRV set for a week. On Wednesday of this week they are showing the HD trailer of The Dark Knight.

smithfarmer

07-14-08, 11:56 PM

HDNet of course has a show of just trailers. I've had my DRV set for a week. On Wednesday of this week they are showing the HD trailer of The Dark Knight.

Go ahead and rub it in! ;)

FSugino

07-15-08, 12:09 AM

HDNet of course has a show of just trailers. I've had my DRV set for a week. On Wednesday of this week they are showing the HD trailer of The Dark Knight.

TDK trailer (in HD) is available on Comcast's On Demand system now - no need to wait until Wednesday :p

maxman

07-15-08, 07:53 AM

HDNet of course has a show of just trailers. I've had my DRV set for a week. On Wednesday of this week they are showing the HD trailer of The Dark Knight.

INHD (now Mojo) used to have the trailer show but no more. Thanks (again), Comcast.:rolleyes:

jrusnak

07-15-08, 11:42 AM

TDK trailer (in HD) is available on Comcast's On Demand system now - no need to wait until Wednesday :p

They have three trailers (plus a 4th "alternate" trailer), plus DK featurettes, an episode of GOTHAM KNIGHT, and much more in HD. Look under the Movies & Events section.

jrcorwin

07-15-08, 01:06 PM

TDK trailer (in HD) is available on Comcast's On Demand system now - no need to wait until Wednesday :p

No HD On Demand here...none at all.

Marty Milton

07-15-08, 05:21 PM

I used to have HDNet and HDNet Movies until Comcast took over from Adelphia as my cable provider and immediately dropped them from the lineup. It's been over a year and when I think back on it, I remember my HDNet viewing being somewhat limited to their news shows, some documentaries and occasionally, Bikini Destinations. ;)

HDNet Movies is the channel that I really miss.

Well, I hate to rub it in, as well, but when our Insight cable was taken over by Comcast this spring, they kept HD Net and HD Net Movies on our Comcast system. The only drawback is that it costs me $7 extra for just those two channels. I have been considering cancelling it.

jrcorwin

07-15-08, 06:04 PM

smithfarmer

07-15-08, 08:21 PM

Well, I hate to rub it in, as well, but when our Insight cable was taken over by Comcast this spring, they kept HD Net and HD Net Movies on our Comcast system. The only drawback is that it costs me $7 extra for just those two channels. I have been considering cancelling it.

HDNet Movies is a great channel for watching classic movies that are uncut and in their original aspect ratio. Picture quality was always excellent, unlike some of the other HD channels. It does suck that Comcast now charges for it but I honestly don't think $7 is too bad.

LRZNole

07-15-08, 10:53 PM

I wonder why they kept HDNet and HDNet Movies in some markets but removed them in others? If I was given the option I would have paid a little extra to keep them.

wareagle

07-16-08, 01:39 AM

I wonder why they kept HDNet and HDNet Movies in some markets but removed them in others? If I was given the option I would have paid a little extra to keep them.

Most likely it's a matter of contracts. It seems like the areas that have HDNet were taken over
by Comcast from other providers, and already had HDNet contracts. Mark Cuban and Comcast don't seem to be able to agree on much.

LRZNole

07-16-08, 10:48 AM

Our area was formerly Adelphia and we had HDNet and HDNet Movies but shortly after Comcast took over they removed them without giving us the option to pay extra to keep them.

My guess is Comcast runs each area of the country differently for whatever reason.

Morac

07-16-08, 02:09 PM

My guess is Comcast runs each area of the country differently for whatever reason.

For the most part each individual Comcast system operates independently from Comcast as a whole. Mostly because most systems were bought by Comcast and those systems had existing contracts. This is why channel lineups and even channel numbers vary from area.

Comcast has started consolidating some thing with the addition of digital. For example the channels numbers for digital channels are the same everywhere in NJ, even though certain cable systems receive more channels than others.

For the most part though, you can think of your local cable system in the same light that you think of your local McDonald's; both are franchises operated independent from the company whole.

LongRufus

07-16-08, 07:30 PM

They have three trailers (plus a 4th "alternate" trailer), plus DK featurettes, an episode of GOTHAM KNIGHT, and much more in HD. Look under the Movies & Events section.

Sadly, it looks like this is another "not available in all areas" situation for Comcast. I am located in South Jersey and I went through every menu item in the HD On Demand section and it is nowhere to be found. It is in the regular SD Movies and Events section though.

jrusnak

07-17-08, 10:07 AM

Sadly, it looks like this is another "not available in all areas" situation for Comcast. I am located in South Jersey and I went through every menu item in the HD On Demand section and it is nowhere to be found. It is in the regular SD Movies and Events section though.

That's a shame, since (unlike adding channels) there should be no reason why it can't be added to your OnDemand selections. Hopefully, the GOTHAM TONIGHT eps will be added to the video releases. And the complete GOTHAM KNIGHT animated release is available in HD OnDemand for $4.99 (in my area, anyway). Also, if you can't get the excerpt, the full hour-long BATMAN UNMASKED doc is currently showing on HISTORY HD. (We only have that channel in SD, but I'm hoping that it will appear in HISTORY OnDemand soon. But, knowing Comcast......)

rafiks

07-18-08, 11:56 AM

Comcast in Naples FL has just added 3 more HD channels to the lineup :

Family Channel HD
Disney Channel HD
Science Channel HD

Are you under the Sarasota headend?

Daniel Murray

07-20-08, 12:34 AM

I would just like to see some new HD Channels !!

bicker1

07-20-08, 07:25 AM

Which ones?

DVDO+WESTY=1080p

07-20-08, 05:29 PM

a comcast rep had a booth at Walmart today and I asked him about HD channels

he said look for Weather Channel HD MSNBC HD CNBCHD+ and two others in august in Manassas VA. sounds promising

jrcorwin

07-20-08, 11:29 PM

a comcast rep had a booth at Walmart today and I asked him about HD channels

he said look for Weather Channel HD MSNBC HD CNBCHD+ and two others in august in Manassas VA. sounds promising

I guess we should be happy with anything new at this point, but...

Forget Weather Channel for a moment.

MSNBC? The least watched of the three major cable news networks and their business channel...CNBC? Wow Comcast...thank you so much for that.

PhillyGuy

07-21-08, 03:27 AM

a comcast rep had a booth at Walmart today and I asked him about HD channels

he said look for Weather Channel HD MSNBC HD CNBCHD+ and two others in august in Manassas VA. sounds promising

I have a feeling these channels are going to be added in time for the Olympics. So hopefully we wouldn't have to wait too long.

URFloorMatt

07-21-08, 05:38 AM

There won't be an MSNBC HD until Q4, so count that one out.

DVDO+WESTY=1080p

07-21-08, 10:15 PM

I think the other two are WGN America HD and TMC HD

makes sense about the NBC stuff for the olympics to be in HD

August is almost here

Cubbies_26

07-22-08, 02:39 PM

Marty Milton

07-22-08, 03:01 PM

My letter to the editor regarding Comcast's refusal to add Comcast Sportsnet Chicago HD and WGN America HD to the channel lineup in Fort Wayne--I just regret using the Cubs and World Series in the same sentence. What a jinx!!
I think this is an example of how the "suits" at Comcast have no clue to geography or sports team's fan base. In Champaign-Ubana, IL we got both Comcast Sportsnet and WGN in HD in April. Since we are in Illinois it was assumed we would be the more logical fanbase for those stations, even though Champaign-Urbana is only about 20 miles closer to Chicago than Ft Wayne.

Marcus Carr

07-22-08, 04:04 PM

Oddly enough, we have WGN America HD in Baltimore. I know the Chicago teams have fans around the country, but still...

And yet still no sign of ESPNews and Weather Channel, which were announced months ago.

Cubbies_26

07-22-08, 05:10 PM

[B][B][QUOTE=Marcus Carr;14344841]Oddly enough, we have WGN America HD in Baltimore. I know the Chicago teams have fans around the country, but still...

That is exactly what I was getting at with my WGN comments in the letter to the editor. Marty also brings up a great point about the "suits" not understanding the different fan bases. Hopefully, Comcast reacts to public shame.:D

Cubbies_26

07-22-08, 09:06 PM

I think this is an example of how the "suits" at Comcast have no clue to geography or sports team's fan base. In Champaign-Ubana, IL we got both Comcast Sportsnet and WGN in HD in April. Since we are in Illinois it was assumed we would be the more logical fanbase for those stations, even though Champaign-Urbana is only about 20 miles closer to Chicago than Ft Wayne.

Just out of curiosity, do you get more Regional Sports Networks than just Comcast Sportsnet Chicago? I don't know if it's possible for an area to get more than 1 RSN, but I thought you might be close enough to St. Louis to warrant getting an RSN from there too. I guess in Fort Wayne, we should get Chicago and Indianapolis RSNs, but we only get the Chicago channel. Just wondering....

magnumplusp

07-23-08, 07:30 AM

I apologize in advance if I am posting in the wrong thread.

Has anyone else experienced undesirable behavior with their STB (Set Top Box) in that the picture pixelates, the audio cuts out, and the screen stops for a second or two?

I was wondering if this problem would be solved if I asked Comcast to give me the HD Converter box instead of the super small Digital Cable Tuner?

I live in Chicago Illinois.

wareagle

07-23-08, 11:04 AM

I apologize in advance if I am posting in the wrong thread.
...

Good guess.

wstanko

07-23-08, 11:11 AM

magnumplusp

07-23-08, 12:29 PM

There is a very active Chicago Comcast tread. They will help you.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=255885

Thank you very much :)

jrusnak

07-23-08, 12:40 PM

There is a very active Chicago Comcast tread. They will help you.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=255885

Not just a Chicago problem...I have the same issues with my STB and I'm in NJ.

Marty Milton

07-23-08, 01:27 PM

Just out of curiosity, do you get more Regional Sports Networks than just Comcast Sportsnet Chicago? I don't know if it's possible for an area to get more than 1 RSN, but I thought you might be close enough to St. Louis to warrant getting an RSN from there too. I guess in Fort Wayne, we should get Chicago and Indianapolis RSNs, but we only get the Chicago channel. Just wondering....
No, we are just getting the Chicago RSN. That's OK with me because my wife and I are Cubs fans and not interested in seeing the Cardinals. The split of Cubs and Cardinals fans is almost 50/50 here in Champaign-Urbana, so I do know a lot of Comcast customers here that would like to see the St. Louis RSN.

Addicted2HD4Now

07-24-08, 03:10 PM

I don't know if it's possible for an area to get more than 1 RSN

Yes it is possible, in CT we get CSN HD, NESN HD, YES HD, SNY (HD coming 8/7/08) and some areas get MSG (not sure if any get HD though). I think it just depends on the area and what the powers that be feel the demand is for the RSN in that region.

Cubbies_26

07-24-08, 06:50 PM

Yes it is possible, in CT we get CSN HD, NESN HD, YES HD, SNY (HD coming 8/7/08) and some areas get MSG (not sure if any get HD though). I think it just depends on the area and what the powers that be feel the demand is for the RSN in that region.

Wow---you have a some great options there. For all of them to be in HD, you must have a great local office. Enjoy

aindik

07-24-08, 09:39 PM

Yes it is possible, in CT we get CSN HD, NESN HD, YES HD, SNY (HD coming 8/7/08) and some areas get MSG (not sure if any get HD though). I think it just depends on the area and what the powers that be feel the demand is for the RSN in that region.

Each of the three leagues (not the NFL because there's no local TV in the NFL) carves up the nation's ZIP codes into territories. Some ZIP codes are in territories of more than one team in a given league. If you're in a team's territory, that means that team's RSN is allowed to show that team's games to you, and is allowed to insist that other channels showing the game black the game out (unless the other channel has league exclusivity or is the RSN of another team who claims the ZIP code as territory).

A while ago there was a web site where you could look up, by ZIP code, all the MLB, NBA and NHL teams that claimed you as territory. I can't find the site now, but there are, for example, parts of Connecticut that are claimed by Boston and New York teams, and parts of New Jersey that are claimed by New York and Philly teams.

bob2274

07-25-08, 03:56 AM

k_fahy

07-25-08, 12:17 PM

I noticed the recent addition of Disney HD and Science HD to our HD lineup this week. Neither addition is one that I'm terribly excited about, but I have no complaints about the HD choices offered by Comcast in our area.

Amnesia

07-25-08, 03:00 PM

I noticed the recent addition of Disney HD and Science HD to our HD lineup this week. And ABC Family HD.

boswd

07-25-08, 03:02 PM

yeah I noticed that too, I live on the South Shore in MA

Marty Milton

07-25-08, 03:11 PM

Science HD was added to our Comcast lineup recently but I am not sure many people here in Champaign-Urbana, IL know it is available. The channel is "buried" among the premium channels between Cinemax and Jenna.

Cubbies_26

07-25-08, 03:40 PM

For MLB, you can see a map at http://mlb.ensequence.com/showthread.php?t=47
MLB is supposed to review the areas that are in multiple teams' terriories and don't get their games, like the way Fort Wayne doesn't get FSN Detroit. This map was made before the days of regional sports networks and out of market packages. Each team wanted their territory to go as far as they could so they could market games to local broadcast channels. From what I hear, Major League Baseball wants to modify the map to go along with what regional sports networks cover in time for the MLB Network to debut in 2009.

This makes me think back to a post on the previous page mentioning how each market's Comcast office acts like a franchise would, and is basically in control of the channels it wants to add. In Fort Wayne, our local office (according to the MLB map) has the opportunity to give us the stations that broadcast the Cubs, Whitesox, Reds, and Tigers. For whatever reason, they don't feel the need to offer us more than 1 RSN and don't want to offer that RSN in HD. It's especially frustrating when I read a post from a fellow AVS member in CT. that is offered 4 RSN options, 3 of which are currently in HD, and 1 that will be in HD in the near future. Hard to believe that both of us are being serviced by the same company, and probably paying a similar price for cable.