It's more, forget which channels we don't have. ;)

must be nice to be in a market where you have so much HD you forget which channels you actually have.

I don't mind if they give more HD to one area over another. I DO mind if I'm paying the same or more for less.

I don't mind if they give more HD to one area over another. I DO mind if I'm paying the same or more for less.

That is just the way I feel

227 Hallmark
237 Speed
263 Encore
264 Fox Bus
265 Fox News
267 FX
285 Comcast Info

That makes 18 new HD channels in the last month here in Elkhart,IN.
Anybody know what system and how much bandwith I have?


You are part of the greater Chicago region. Which is a 860Mhz. system.
Thats why we have over 50 HD channels and we haven't even done
analog migration yet. The city of Chicago is all digital and that is
why they have more HD than us.

That is just the way I feel

Yeah, I have a whopping 27 HD channels and a few of them only have a small amount of HD programming going on at any particular time.

Yeah, I have a whopping 27 HD channels and a few of them only have a small amount of HD programming going on at any particular time.

I hear you:mad:
Come on Fios:D

yeah, everyone that bitched when Chicago went fully digital is probably not so miffed anymore.

Yeah, less excited about my new channels after seeing that Chicago grid. :)

BTW, noticed they also moved HDNet and HDNet Movies off their own $6.95 tier and into the Digital Classic.

Very surprised they didn't push E!, Style and G4 our way. Not particularly unhappy, just surprised.

yeah, everyone that bitched when Chicago went fully digital is probably not so miffed anymore.

Guilty!

Yeah, less excited about my new channels after seeing that Chicago grid. :)

BTW, noticed they also moved HDNet and HDNet Movies off their own $6.95 tier and into the Digital Classic.

Very surprised they didn't push E!, Style and G4 our way. Not particularly unhappy, just surprised.

I would like G4 since I'm a gamer, but I'm not paying more for it.

I would like G4 since I'm a gamer, but I'm not paying more for it.

I wonder if G4 HD looks any good, because the G4 SD channel is by far the worse channel I've ever seen qualiy-wise. YouTube videos has less pixelation and blocking than G4 does.

I wonder if G4 HD looks any good, because the G4 SD channel is by far the worse channel I've ever seen qualiy-wise. YouTube videos has less pixelation and blocking than G4 does.

Maybe its your area? Here G4 is about as good as any other channel. No pixelation or blocking.

Maybe its your area? Here G4 is about as good as any other channel. No pixelation or blocking.

It could be my area as G4 is broadcast on both analog and digital channels in my area, while it's digital on most others, but even the analog channel has an extremely bad picture quality and gets extremely blurry at times.

I think the problem is that G4 appears to be filming for web video and then broadcasting it on their TV channel. The reason I say that is that the videos on my TV (at least for X-Play) look exactly like the ones on their web site.

If you want to know what it looks like, go to G4TV's video streaming site (http://www.g4tv.com/video_detail.aspx) and play a video and make it full screen. That's exactly what it looks like on my TV.

21 NEW HD Channels in Two Weeks for VT

We officially got 21 HD channels in total on Thursday.
These include:
Bio, ESPNews, Cartoon Network, Travel Channel, QVC, MGM, Planet Green, Encore, Lifetime Movie Network, E!, Bravo, FX, Fox News, Fox Business, CNBC, WE, Fuse, IFC, Toon Disney, and 2 HD PPV's.

This makes Comcast HD Count in VT 62

http://www.dslreports.com/forum/r21613059-21-NEW-HD-Channels-in-Two-Weeks-for-VT

In our local paper, there is an article reporting that U-verse will begin limited roll out in Nashville this week.
We will see if Comcast will add to our current 40 HD count. We've seen no HD additions since an August addition of 3 channels.

Since Verizon started here a couple years ago, Comcast has added more, but has still been pretty slow. At one point, Comcast had a few channels that weren't on Verizon, then VZ leapfrogged and passed them again. Whatever happens there, it will be better than what you get now. Maybe Comcast will finally carry SportSouth there, since AT&T carries it already.

Hmm, 243-NJN1 might be HD. It appears in the HD program section.

Hmm, 243-NJN1 might be HD. It appears in the HD program section.

Its currently broadcasting in SD however some programs list as HD????

Its currently broadcasting in SD however some programs list as HD????

I've seen the guide list some programs as "HD" even though it's a SD channel. I noticed that too, that the guide calls 243 "NJN-1 in HDTV". I had to do a double-check to make sure I didn't miss a new HD channel. NJN's website doesn't say anything about NJNDT1 being available in HD. Some programs are probably produced in HD for other PBS stations (or just other TV stations) that do broadcast in HD (hence the "HD" marking in the program guide).

Yeah, it's currently showing SD.

Cable giant Comcast Corp. said that it's adding eight new high-definition channels to its offerings in most Michigan communities. The new channels include Biography HD, Cartoon HD, E! HD, Fox News HD, FX HD, Lifetime Movie Network HD, Planet Green HD and Speed HD. Philadelphia-based Comcast operates cable networks in Lansing, East Lansing and many surrounding communities.

http://www.lansingstatejournal.com/article/20081225/NEWS03/812250336/1004/NEWS03

http://www.lansingstatejournal.com/article/20081225/NEWS03/812250336/1004/NEWS03

Those were all added here on the 18th

Got a quick question, I just got my parents to upgrade to the basic digital starter pack with the HD DVR. We are getting our locals in HD, but I don't seem to be getting the national channels like TBS, FX, USA, etc in hi-def. I was under the impression these channels should be included without getting any kind of add on package since they already pay to get those channels. I thought the only channels they needed an extra package to pick up was HD Net, HD Net Movies, and any other channel that is hi-def only (excluding the pay channels like HBO and Showtime that I know they won't get without adding them too). Do I need to call and have them do something?

To be sure we know what you're talking about, how much are you paying for the "basic digital starter pack with the HD DVR"? That'll help use determine what you should be able to tune in on the HD DVR.

I believe it is around $60 a month with the $10 DVR rental, so $50 a month for the service. I don't know the exact amount because I just had them get it today. I went to the office and picked up the box and installed it myself.

Zip code is 61071 if that matters.

The best rule of thumb is that you should be receiving the HD version of any channel that you get the SD version of. The same thing should hold for On Demand access. (And yes, call and have Comcast send a signal to the box.)

Thats the way I understood it too. I'm on hold waiting for a customer service agent now. I'm wondering if I am going to need to replace some splitters or the cable run as it is about 15 years old and might not be transmitting the entire bandwidth.

That would do it...splitters need to be rated to 1000MHz or higher. Older splitters can't handle higher frequencies.

Well, the customer service lady tried to reboot the DVR from her end and it wouldn't do it so she had me unplug it and wait 30 seconds, then plug it back in. Waited half an hour or so and I still wasn't getting the channels.

So then I got online and tried the online tech help. The lady on there told me that they are having problems in my area and they are trying to get it fixed (I think she was full of it though).

I rebooted the DVR and went and got some dinner. Came back and now I am getting most of the hi-def channels I think I should be getting (there are a couple I'm not sure of like National Geographic HD). However, now I'm not getting the standard def version of a lot of channels. Including ones that done have hi-def versions. So maybe there is really issues here now.

I also went into the basement and moved a bunch of the drop ceiling tiles to trace the run to the DVR. The cable comes into the house and goes through a 2 way splitter. One line goes out of that and straight to the cable modem (when my parents first got the cable modem installed they had problems with it and the installer came and put this splitter in). That splitter is rated up to 1000MHz. The other line then goes to a 4 way 1000MHz splitter. One of those lines goes about 15ft and into a 3 way splitter, this one is only rated to 900MHz. From their it is a straight run of about 75 feet to the DVR.

Do I need to replace the 900MHz splitter with a 1000MHz one? Should I buy a three way splitter to replace the 2 way one and run one line directly to the DVR, one directly to the cable modem, and then hook the other one up to the old house wiring?

I'm really trying to do as much of this myself as I can because I'm pretty sure Comcast charges for all service calls now (Insight used to do service calls for free, and they gave you free splitters, ran new RG6 for free etc.).

I also went into the basement and moved a bunch of the drop ceiling tiles to trace the run to the DVR. The cable comes into the house and goes through a 2 way splitter. One line goes out of that and straight to the cable modem (when my parents first got the cable modem installed they had problems with it and the installer came and put this splitter in). That splitter is rated up to 1000MHz. The other line then goes to a 4 way 1000MHz splitter. One of those lines goes about 15ft and into a 3 way splitter, this one is only rated to 900MHz. From their it is a straight run of about 75 feet to the DVR.

Do I need to replace the 900MHz splitter with a 1000MHz one? Should I buy a three way splitter to replace the 2 way one and run one line directly to the DVR, one directly to the cable modem, and then hook the other one up to the old house wiring?

I'm really trying to do as much of this myself as I can because I'm pretty sure Comcast charges for all service calls now (Insight used to do service calls for free, and they gave you free splitters, ran new RG6 for free etc.).

Before doing anything, I strongly recommend removing each splitter between the DVR and the incoming cable line, to test and see if any of the splitters, or a combination of splitters, is causing your problem. If you still have problems with all splitters removed, then the issue is not in your house but is on Comcast's end somewhere. If the problem is fixed by taking out a particular splitter (other splitters have no effect on the problem), then replacing the splitter should be all you need to do. If a combination of splitters causes the problem, then the signal is too weak and you'll need to minimize splitters between the DVR and the incoming cable line as much as possible. (That being said, do not do anything that will split the signal going to the cable modem any more than absolutely necessary. The modem needs as good a signal as it can get.)

A 900 MHz splitter should be good enough for cable TV, since pretty much all cable boxes can only tune as high as 864 MHz. For the cable modem, however, a 1000 MHz splitter may be necessary, depending on the cable system.

On or about January 27th, 2009, the following channels will require a digital converter from Comcast in order to view:

CN8 Limited Basic Service Ch 8*
News 12 NJ Expanded Service Ch 62*
Cartoon Network Expanded Service Ch 72*

____________________________________________________________
Also on or about January 27th, the following changes will be made:

TV Land will move from channel 50 to 60
Style will move from channel 60 to 50*
Cartoon Network will be added to channel 126*

*A digital converter is required to view.

Applies to COMCAST OF UNION ONLY

Expect some HD to be added a little after 1/27, by the looks of this.

Came back and now I am getting most of the hi-def channels I think I should be getting (there are a couple I'm not sure of like National Geographic HD). However, now I'm not getting the standard def version of a lot of channels. Including ones that done have hi-def versions. So maybe there is really issues here now.
Nat'l Geo. and Science are typically in Digital Classic, and the HD versions are typically there as well. Also, there are some HD-only channels, Palladia and Universal typically in Digital Starter (Standard).

The part about knowing which channels you should get isn't rocket science; always read it in writing, don't rely on CSRs. The easiest thing to do is look at Comcast site for a channels/services listing for your zip code or municipality; although, sometimes it isn't accurate. So, if you or others think it is wrong, go to the local Comcast office and pick up a channels/services card, and while you are at it, you may as well get a prices/services card, too.

Applies to COMCAST OF UNION ONLY

Expect some HD to be added a little after 1/27, by the looks of this.

:eek:UNION ONLY you must be kidding me WTF :mad:

:eek:UNION ONLY you must be kidding me WTF :mad:

What really stinks for you guys is you probably won't lose CN8 since you're in the Philly DMA.

:eek:UNION ONLY you must be kidding me WTF :mad:

What happened to the rumor of January 8th? Hey, maybe after the 27th is when FiOS will be available. Fingers crossed.

Well I think there is definitely something wrong. I went out and bought a 100ft roll of RG6 today and hooked it up to the very first 2 way splitter in the house. So the only things hooked up were the cable modem and the DVR. I reset the box and waited an hour or so. The guide info all updated but I'm still having problems with channels missing. The hi def channels are all there, but now I'm missing a lot of standard def channels, including the regular expanded basic channels (channel numbers 16-99) that work fine in the rest of the house. This is with the cable pretty much hooked up as directly as possible.

I guess my parents are just going to have to call and try to get a tech to come out and look everything over.

What happened to the rumor of January 8th? Hey, maybe after the 27th is when FiOS will be available. Fingers crossed.

:eek:What RUMOR of January 8th!!!! I bet what ever the Rumer is it will not happen!!

:eek:Now on FIOS what do you know that I do not know:D

Now fill me in Please:D

What happened to the rumor of January 8th? Hey, maybe after the 27th is when FiOS will be available. Fingers crossed.

Jan 8th? All I heard was the middle of January...a little later than expected but at least something is coming.

Jan 8th? All I heard was the middle of January...a little later than expected but at least something is coming.

What?

What?

There was a rumor of new HD for NNJ for the middle of January, I guess it got pushed back a lil to late Jan early Feb.

Just like last Feb that we never saw.

Just like last Feb that we never saw.

Hmm not sure what you're referring to...for us they faked us out in May with the announcements in the payment centers and then reneging on them.

No back in Jan 2008 the Garden State System got announcements in the bill that we will get something like 8 or 10 new HD channels in Feb. and we never got them. But my bill went up.

No back in Jan 2008 the Garden State System got announcements in the bill that we will get something like 8 or 10 new HD channels in Feb. and we never got them. But my bill went up.

Ah, must have missed that somewhere in this thread.

Has CN been moved to digital on your system yet?

Recently spoke to a Comcast representative & the city of Chicago will get the following channels:

Nickelodeon HD-channel 225
Lifetime HD-channel 228
Spike HD-channel 290






More channels will be added, but which ones & when is yet to be announced.

At this point, I'd put aside any expectations for February, given that channel moves to digital are on hold. May or may not be related, but ask yourself would you rather be delighted or disappointed.

At this point, I'd put aside any expectations for February, given that channel moves to digital are on hold. May or may not be related, but ask yourself would you rather be delighted or disappointed.

I'll disagree with you there, since if you happened to read the last page they just announced 3 channels moving to digital in our area. I'd expect more HD by the end of January or the beginning of Feb.

:Now on FIOS what do you know that I do not know:D

Now fill me in Please:D

Only that a Verizon rep told me that it is planned to be available in my area (NE NJ) during the first quarter of 2009.

Only that a Verizon rep told me that it is planned to be available in my area (NE NJ) during the first quarter of 2009.

That's what I heard for my area as well! :D

Ah, must have missed that somewhere in this thread.

Has CN been moved to digital on your system yet?

No CN has not moved.

Comcast has added 15 new HDs to my area since Dec. 18th:

183 Travel Channel HD
186 BIOHD
210 GreenHD
214 Fox News Channel HD
216 MGM HD
221 Lifetime Movie Network HD
223 Speed HD
224 FX HD
225 E!HD
227 TOONHD
238 Toon Disney HD
250 Fuse HD
257 ESPN News HD
260 IFC HD
261 WE HD

That now brings our total, including locals and premiums, to about 56 or so from my count. I just wish they would add HDNet here instead of all these obscure HD channels...at least they are adding them though.

I just wish they would add HDNet here instead of all these obscure HD channels...at least they are adding them though.

I don't know if you meant it to be, but THAT is funny!!!!

:D

Got a quick question for anyone that knows. A while back Comcast was supposed to be teaming up with TIVO to make a new HDDVR box based off their software. Just curious if anyone has seen any of them or was the plan scrapped?
Thanks in advance. :)

Got a quick question for anyone that knows. A while back Comcast was supposed to be teaming up with TIVO to make a new HDDVR box based off their software. Just curious if anyone has seen any of them or was the plan scrapped?Answers:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=682350&page=129

Basically, the offering was released. It was not a new box -- it was never intended to be. Rather, the intention was to port the TiVo software onto the standard Motorola DVR boxes that are already deployed widely. The problem is that these DVRs were designed many years ago, and aren't as powerful as stand-alone TiVo boxes, so performance and reliability is pretty mediocre. As with many things. you get what you pay for.

Thanks for the quick reply. *bumbs head* search button is your friend :)

No CN has not moved.

CN8 won't be moved off of basic in the Philadelphia region since it tied to Comcast Sportsnet there and shows some of their games.

I would like to know if we will be getting any HD channels any time soon.

CN8 won't be moved off of basic in the Philadelphia region since it tied to Comcast Sportsnet there and shows some of their games.

I was referring to Cartoon Network, not CN8.

I know CN8 won't move from analog in the Philly DMA.

Have a quick question on the set-top boxes used by Comcast in South Jersey (Garden State, I think). I've had the SA8000HD PVR for years and I'm curious if Comcast offers a better PVR in my area. While this one works it's rather sluggish and klunky. My father in law in Southampton has a new PVR (A moto box, not sure which) which is much faster. Still klunky but at least he's not waiting for screen redraws and channel changes.

Is it worth taking my 8000HD to the Comcast office and asking for a newer box? What are the advantages. I'm a little hesitant to unhook everything and give up a box that kinda-works for one that is worse.

Thanks!

Have a quick question on the set-top boxes used by Comcast in South Jersey (Garden State, I think). I've had the SA8000HD PVR for years and I'm curious if Comcast offers a better PVR in my area. While this one works it's rather sluggish and klunky. My father in law in Southampton has a new PVR (A moto box, not sure which) which is much faster. Still klunky but at least he's not waiting for screen redraws and channel changes.

Is it worth taking my 8000HD to the Comcast office and asking for a newer box? What are the advantages. I'm a little hesitant to unhook everything and give up a box that kinda-works for one that is worse.

Thanks!
I've been wondering the same thing about my box. I don't know the model #, but the thing is SO slow and laggy. At it's worst I have to wait upwards of 10 seconds before a button push even registers on the box. I was at my neighbor's house and their box is like night and day compared to mine. Things seem to react instantly. My problem is that I don't want to lose my DVR'ed recordings. Is the box upgrade worth it?

Recently spoke to a Comcast representative & the city of Chicago will get the following channels:

Nickelodeon HD-channel 225
Lifetime HD-channel 228
Spike HD-channel 290

More channels will be added, but which ones & when is yet to be announced.

any indication if Spike HD will be in Digital Starter or Classic?

If you already get the channel, you'll get it in HD. So, Starter.

Is MLB network available in HD anywhere? It launches in a couple of days.

Is MLB network available in HD anywhere? It launches in a couple of days.

How can it be available anywhere if it hasn't launched yet?

Have a quick question on the set-top boxes used by Comcast in South Jersey (Garden State, I think). I've had the SA8000HD PVR for years and I'm curious if Comcast offers a better PVR in my area. While this one works it's rather sluggish and klunky. My father in law in Southampton has a new PVR (A moto box, not sure which) which is much faster. Still klunky but at least he's not waiting for screen redraws and channel changes.

Is it worth taking my 8000HD to the Comcast office and asking for a newer box? What are the advantages. I'm a little hesitant to unhook everything and give up a box that kinda-works for one that is worse.

Thanks!


Here's our experience with Comcast DVR's in Houston:

I had an 8300HD for over 3 years with few problems. It wasn't perfect; however, it worked reliably. About the end of Sept, the HDD died a horrible death...as I was watching a live show. Comcast swapped it for their new Cisco/SA-rng200. This box has more bugs than Vista, and the previous 8300HDC (w/cable cards) was almost as bad...based on user reports.

If you can get an 8300HD, it will be significantly better (operationally) than the original 8000HD; however, if not, I'd keep what I had until Comcast and Cisco/SA can work the bugs out of the rng200.

FYI: I'm on a first name basis with the senior project engineer who is overseeing the implementation of the rng200. There are a number of bugs that are being explored. The question is whether they are software or hardware related.

How can it be available anywhere if it hasn't launched yet?

The question is, "Has Comcast committed to showing the MLB Channel in HD anywhere when it launches on Jan 1?"

I also would like to know.

Thanks,

Rich N.

No, I don't believe so.

However, most systems should have MLB HD by the time the season starts.

On another note, Comcast NNJ customers are getting treated quite well right now. Docsis 3.0 and the speed upgrades to existing tiers is now available.

If you can get an 8300HD, it will be significantly better (operationally) than the original 8000HD; however, if not, I'd keep what I had until Comcast and Cisco/SA can work the bugs out of the rng200.

Just got back from Comcast.. they swapped my 8000HD with an 8300HDC.. hopefully all goes well, it's "warming up" now.

I would like to know if we will be getting any HD channels any time soon.

It's Comcast Dan! Probably when the Mayan calendar ends, in 2012

On another note, Comcast NNJ customers are getting treated quite well right now.

I never thought I'd see you say this! :)

Docsis 3.0 and the speed upgrades to existing tiers is now available.

What exactly will this give us?

What exactly will this give us?
A faster pipe to get to that 250 GB monthly cap earlier. :D

N

On another note, Comcast NNJ customers are getting treated quite well right now. Docsis 3.0 and the speed upgrades to existing tiers is now available.

What are they charging for that? It's supposed to go up here in about a month or so and I'm curious what the rates are.

What are they charging for that? It's supposed to go up here in about a month or so and I'm curious what the rates are.

No charge, each tier just gets improved download/upload speeds.

What are they charging for that? It's supposed to go up here in about a month or so and I'm curious what the rates are.

Breakdown:

Performance: $42.95
Blast: $52.95
Ultra: $65.95
Extreme: $142.95

Ultra and Extreme require a modem from Comcast, and the price includes the rental fee of $3. Note Extreme does not have PowerBoost, but it's actual provisioned rate is 55000kbps (so you're getting an extra 5000kbps).

Finally our Comcast system in Jersey is doing something good! Woo!

Breakdown:

Performance: $42.95
Blast: $52.95
Ultra: $65.95
Extreme: $142.95

Ultra and Extreme require a modem from Comcast, and the price includes the rental fee of $3. Note Extreme does not have PowerBoost, but it's actual provisioned rate is 55000kbps (so you're getting an extra 5000kbps).

Finally our Comcast system in Jersey is doing something good! Woo!

That's what I was looking for, that Extreme is the DOCSIS 3.0 speeds. Now, is the Ultra also DOCSIS 3.0, but with what speed? I guess more than 16mb/s and less than 55mb/s?

That's what I was looking for, that Extreme is the DOCSIS 3.0 speeds. Now, is the Ultra also DOCSIS 3.0, but with what speed? I guess more than 16mb/s and less than 55mb/s?

Ultra is Docsis 3.0, and it's 22mbps/5mbps. Provisioned rate is 24200kbps down, 5500kbps up.

Note it's megabit, not megabyte. Divide by 8 to get the true speed in megabytes/kilobytes/etc.

It's Comcast Dan! Probably when the Mayan calendar ends, in 2012

The bad thing is it is probably TRUE:eek:

Looks like Comcast in the Houston area has dropped HDNet Movies. Apparently they looked at viewing numbers and concluded that interest was low in the channel.

I told them I'd likely be canceling their service and going with someone else if they don't bring it back.

Adam they could care less about you! You are one out of how many.

I wasn't aware that HDNet Movies was so unpopular.

I wasn't aware that HDNet Movies was so unpopular.
Wasn't dropping HDNet Movies part of the plan when the finally reached a deal awhile back? Or am I thinking of another carrier?

Adam they could care less about you! You are one out of how many.

I don't understand how some of the other HD channels could be considered more popular than HDNet Movies. Palladia HD, Versus, and Golf HD really get more viewers than HDNet Movies? Because those are still around.

And as for Comcast not giving a crap about losing one customer. I agree, I'm small potatoes. But piss off enough people and eventually it'll affect their bottom line.

I don't understand how some of the other HD channels could be considered more popular than HDNet Movies. Palladia HD, Versus, and Golf HD really get more viewers than HDNet Movies? Because those are still around.

And as for Comcast not giving a crap about losing one customer. I agree, I'm small potatoes. But piss off enough people and eventually it'll affect their bottom line.
In many, many cases it's more about the cost to the carrier than the actual popularity of the channel, and in the case of Versus and Golf, Comcast owns those channels so there's no mystery why they are there over possible others they don't own and would have to pay for.

I'm watching Hostage on UniversalHD and they're editing out the profanity. When did the channel start censoring movies? Is this a sign of things to come? What's the reasoning behind it?

Political discussions are not permitted in this forums. ;)

I spoke to Comcast in Houston about its decision to drop HDNet Movies. The best answer I could get was that it did not fit in with its plans, though details were lacking. There was an additional charge for HDNet, a channel I rarely watch, and HDnet Movies, one that I watched regularly. (Comcast has added the Weather Channel in HD, another channel I will never watch.) Comcast says that it is making HDNet part of its digital package, so presumably there will be a small decrease in my bill this month.

Comcast is adding HD channels to some markets (Engadget HD (http://www.engadgethd.com/)), but Houston is not one of those markets.

The Weather Channel is a very popular channel, especially in doctor's offices and other waiting rooms. I can understand adding it over some other premium movie channels. While you may not watch it, a lot of people will be.

And for the record, I wouldn't watch it either. :p

I went over to my local Comcast office last week to switch my old cable box for an HD one... and man they were rude! AND the lady tried to give me RCA cables and tell me they're component. "Umm, ma'am, I'm pretty sure component are the green, blue, red ones." After all that, they gave me an outdated box with no HDMI output. I asked for an HDMI box and they said they're all out and only get around 5 boxes in stock per week. They said if I want one the only option is to drive way out to their location (which is way out there) some other day and stand in line to see if they have any. Friggin' ridiculous!

There is no functional difference between RCA cables and component video cables; they differ only in how many cables there are (two versus three).

Cable boxes aren't "outdated" just because they don't have HDMI output. Outdated boxes would not allow you to tune in all the channels and services. If a box does tune in all the channels and services, it is not outdated.

There is no functional difference between RCA cables and component video cables; they differ only in how many cables there are (two versus three).

Yeahh...there's no difference besides the fact that one carries HD and the other doesn't....

There is no functional difference between RCA cables and component video cables; they differ only in how many cables there are (two versus three).Not true. Most RCA cables, in particular those designed for audio (white & red), are not 75 ohm. A video cable is 75 ohm. Bad effects can include image ringing.

Cable boxes aren't "outdated" just because they don't have HDMI output. Outdated boxes would not allow you to tune in all the channels and services. If a box does tune in all the channels and services, it is not outdated.Not true. HDMI allows system integration of switching both audio and video from multiple sources. It also can provide a better HD image, in many cases.

That's not been my experience. I'll play around with it a bit when I have a chance. Maybe the audio cables I've used in the past for component video connections were simply that-much-better than average.

There is no functional difference between RCA cables and component video cables; they differ only in how many cables there are (two versus three).

I'm not sure how to interpret this. Functionally, I guess basic RCA cables could be used for each of the three component video cables, although I'm not sure you'd want to use some basic RCA cables for this purpose (I've done it, and they haven't worked reliably). I'm also not aware of any "two" cable system for video. But if you're trying to compare composite (one video cable, two audio) to component and saying it's OK that the CSR tried to pass off the former as the latter, I'd really like to understand your reasoning here.

Cable boxes aren't "outdated" just because they don't have HDMI output. Outdated boxes would not allow you to tune in all the channels and services. If a box does tune in all the channels and services, it is not outdated.

Webster's definition of "outdated" is "no longer current". I'd say lack of HDMI qualifies a box as outdated. Just not obsolete.

I'm not sure how to interpret this. Functionally, I guess basic RCA cables could be used for each of the three component video cables, although I'm not sure you'd want to use some basic RCA cables for this purpose (I've done it, and they haven't worked reliably).What I've done in the past is used very high quality Monster (audio) cables instead of the cheap-o component video cables that came with my DVD player. It worked for me.

Webster's definition of "outdated" is "no longer current". I'd say lack of HDMI qualifies a box as outdated. Just not obsolete.I think the intention of the use of the word "outdated" was that issuing the box was inappropriate. It isn't. It is inappropriate to issue an obsolete box.

Trying to pass off RCA cables as component is inappropriate. Maybe bryan868 can let us know if she tried to give him composite cables, or actually gave 3 RCA cables to use in place of component (plus two more for audio).

Handing out HDMI-less boxes may not be inappropriate, but it sure is annoying when you've got the latest capability on the TV side but can't use it. Comcast obviously carries HDMI boxes, but it would be interesting to understand why they can't keep up with demand - and why they couldn't allow people the opportunity to "order" a box for pickup, rather than competing with the motor vehicle office for worst customer service.

I went over to my local Comcast office last week to switch my old cable box for an HD one... and man they were rude! AND the lady tried to give me RCA cables and tell me they're component.

When I picked up a cable box from Comcast earlier this year, they didn't give me any cables.

When I picked up a cable box from Comcast earlier this year, they didn't give me any cables.

I've gone through a few HD boxes, I got component cables for each one. My SD boxes didn't come with anything.

Comcast mailed me an HDMI Cable box with an HDMI cable included. I was shocked. Actually, pretty bizarre sequence of events. I called Comcast up informing them we're getting another television and need to add another cable box to our plan. I told the guy to mail it and then he mentioned the shipping charge and I told him to cancel it and I would just pick one up at their pick-up location. So, I call the pick-up location and they inform me that they only receive cable boxes with the HDMI jack once a week and it's first come first serve. So, I said whatever, I'll just go next week on the day they receive their inventory expecting to get lucky and getting one. As it turns out, the guy never cancelled the shipment for the HDMI cable box and I received it a day before I planned to go down there myself. So, in the end, it all worked out.

Maybe the audio cables I've used in the past for component video connections were simply that-much-better than average.Not necessarily better (for audio), but just 75 ohm.

Maybe bryan868 can let us know if she tried to give him composite cables, or actually gave 3 RCA cables to use in place of component (plus two more for audio).

Yeah, no, she definitely gave me regular old composite cables and called them component.

So, I call the pick-up location and they inform me that they only receive cable boxes with the HDMI jack once a week and it's first come first serve. So, I said whatever, I'll just go next week on the day they receive their inventory expecting to get lucky and getting one.

This is the same situation in my area. Except you're lucky you can even call your pick-up location! My local service center doesn't even have a direct phone number. They said they receive maybe 5 HDMI boxes a week, on Mondays at 12:45pm, and I'd have to come in and wait in line for my chance to get one. Can't call. Can't reserve one. Can't put me on a waiting list.

I'd definitely call the HDMI-less cable boxes outdated. Comcast even called them outdated. They said they're currently in a transition from old to new hardware and they simply can't keep up.

Yeah, no, she definitely gave me regular old composite cables and called them component.



This is the same situation in my area. Except you're lucky you can even call your pick-up location! My local service center doesn't even have a direct phone number. They said they receive maybe 5 HDMI boxes a week, on Mondays at 12:45pm, and I'd have to come in and wait in line for my chance to get one. Can't call. Can't reserve one. Can't put me on a waiting list.

I'd definitely call the HDMI-less cable boxes outdated. Comcast even called them outdated. They said they're currently in a transition from old to new hardware and they simply can't keep up.

They do have the phone number to the pick up location, they just refuse to give it out. It isn't listed either. They want you to call them, not directly to the location they have the HD boxes. #&@*!

TWC was the same way.

? - Can you connect an SA 4250HDC(comcast box) to a display via HDMI, and also(and this is important) run out the component to a PVR Capture device?

Not composite or S-video, component? And I'm just asking for video here.

Thanks!

I get MLB Network SD on channel 410 in Chicago but no HD. It arrived yesterday at no additional charge as I have the digital package.

Does any Comcast system carry MLB Network HD or does anyone have any idea when Comcast will have MLB Network HD?

Does any Comcast system carry MLB Network HD or does anyone have any idea when Comcast will have MLB Network HD?

I think Comcast has a carriage agreement for MLB HD, but it just depends on each system to add it as space permits.

For those in the Baltimore / Washington sports region, MASN has revealed on their site www.masnsports.com which Comcast systems will have the full time MASN HD channel. For the systems with Comcast Sportsnet Philadelphia on channel 200, MASN will be on 201. Those of us with CSN DC on 251 will have MASN on channel 247, which is currently one of two "HD On Demand" channels.

Good news. I was having a problem with my box not correctly setting the time (it would always read 12:00). So Comcast sent out a technician, who just happened to have a brand spankin' new Motorola box with HDMI in his truck. I am now a very happy camper!

Ultra is Docsis 3.0, and it's 22mbps/5mbps. Provisioned rate is 24200kbps down, 5500kbps up.

Note it's megabit, not megabyte. Divide by 8 to get the true speed in megabytes/kilobytes/etc.

Thanks for the response, I guess I missed it due to "The Great Cable Conspiracy" right after it. :D

Good news. I was having a problem with my box not correctly setting the time (it would always read 12:00). So Comcast sent out a technician, who just happened to have a brand spankin' new Motorola box with HDMI in his truck. I am now a very happy camper!

Which box? DCH3200? Or is it somehow a DCX cable box?

I've gone through a few HD boxes, I got component cables for each one. My SD boxes didn't come with anything.

It was an HD box and they didn't give me any cables at all. The person did ask "Do you have HDMI", which I assumed meant if my TV supported HDMI so I answered yes. I'm guessing she meant to ask "do I have any HDMI cable at home" in which case a "Yes" answer would mean I didn't need any, but that's not what she asked.

In the end I ended up picking up another HDMI cable from monoprice since I didn't haven any any extra HDMI or component cables.

I still need to track down some info for the city (I live in the burbs), but here's the current line-up for the Chicago area. Not as complete as Boston, but not too shabby.


http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3184/3118377471_7c9e552828_o.png

Most of those channels are purely in the City of Chicago, we here in the South Suburbs are still dreaming of a lot of those HD channels. We just got FX HD, Speed HD, and Fox News on December 16th. So before we start singing Chicago's praises, have them get the whole Metro Area on the same par as the City of Chicago.

Which box? DCH3200? Or is it somehow a DCX cable box?

Yeah, the DCH3200. No DVR.

Sometimes I end up seeing the wrong feeds...things about uplinks...blocky screen. No other channel comes in worse. I don't think it's comcasts fault I think it's the content producers. But it's odd how some programming doesn't match up.

Does cnbc hd have any problems? I haven't seen that one yet but I figure it's on the way. One thing I really do like on hdtv is at least the text is far easier to read. Combine that with a pvr and any advertising you can read the fine print. With picture in picture I can read the headlines on the 2nd channel...

OK I called Comcast of Cherry Hill (Garden state system) today just to see if they might know when I could see some new HD channels. Well all I can say is they said if you are lucky 3 to 5 years. I said you must be joking. She got all mad and said you could go to one of three other companies or get over the air channels because we do not need you or any one who calls about HD channels. She all so said you HD people are a real pain in the A$$ then she hungup on me. So I called back and ask to talked to some one higher up. I was told not to hold my breath for new Channels or any upgrades for three to five years.

Daniel,
I wanted to write back regarding the obvious misinformation you were provided. As an avid HD fan in the Philadelphia region I can assure you that we are working hard to expand the HD offerings in all the areas we are in. As we transition more channels from analog to digital, we will be able to increase the amount of HD channel offerings. This is a process that will continue and you will see more HD channels! Until the channels are publicly announced, I would not be able to provide details but I did want you to know that will be working to do this, and it will not be 3 to 5 years

I would like to review your interactions, so if it would not be too much trouble, please email me your account information with a link to this forum.

Thank you!
Frank Eliason
Comcast
frank_eliason@cable.comcast.com

Hey! Welcome to AVSForum Frank!

I'm surprised they said 3-5 years, they must have said that just to get you to hang up (which obviously didn't work).

Comcast really needs to work on their customer service.

I've gotta say for the most part I've had nothing but good experience with Comcast. Just wanted to toss that out there.

I WOULD like to know when we're finally getting all the MTV stations (VH1, MTV, Comedy Central, etc) in HD though :)

I've gotta say for the most part I've had nothing but good experience with Comcast. Just wanted to toss that out there.

I WOULD like to know when we're finally getting all the MTV stations (VH1, MTV, Comedy Central, etc) in HD though :)

You're one of the showcase markets that's all digital though.

There's places like NNJ which hasn't seen any new national HD channel since October of 2007, and we're stuck with only 27 total HD channels.

Bottom line is you can't call customer service and expect to get any info regarding new channels. More often than not the person you are speaking to is not even in the same state. Don't bother with it, you'll get more info from this website and the local newspapers. My biggest grip with Comcast is that they keep everyone completely in the dark about their plans. Why not put some info about upcoming channels in the package with the monthly bill? That would be too logical. :p

Bottom line is you can't call customer service and expect to get any info regarding new channels. More often than not the person you are speaking to is not even in the same state. Don't bother with it, you'll get more info from this website and the local newspapers. My biggest grip with Comcast is that they keep everyone completely in the dark about their plans. Why not put some info about upcoming channels in the package with the monthly bill? That would be too logical. :p

They don't even give their own employees the proper info. I keep in contact with an employee who is somewhat high up locally. They find out a week or two in advance and sometimes on the day off an HD channel addition. We are waiting for HD On Demand and they have no idea how far along they are into the process.

Often times the people we deal with at comcast know less than we do about what is coming. It's a shame.

Also, I was told by our comcast regional director that they keep that info quiet in case they miss a goal or deadline...they don't want to promise it untill they are sure it will happen.

I can understand the last part a bit about not being able to keep promises but once you know everything is ok and ready to roll would it kill them to throw us a little bone. Keep the masses happy.

I can understand the last part a bit about not being able to keep promises but once you know everything is ok and ready to roll would it kill them to throw us a little bone. Keep the masses happy.
Agreed

Daniel,
I wanted to write back regarding the obvious misinformation you were provided. As an avid HD fan in the Philadelphia region I can assure you that we are working hard to expand the HD offerings in all the areas we are in. As we transition more channels from analog to digital, we will be able to increase the amount of HD channel offerings. This is a process that will continue and you will see more HD channels! Until the channels are publicly announced, I would not be able to provide details but I did want you to know that will be working to do this, and it will not be 3 to 5 years

I would like to review your interactions, so if it would not be too much trouble, please email me your account information with a link to this forum.

Thank you!
Frank Eliason
Comcast
frank_eliason@cable.comcast.com

I can not be to safe with me giving out my info. You only have 1 post and I do not know if you really work for comcast.
If you look into this thread You will see with in a year I put in hear that I Have been told that the Garden State system will not be getting any upgrades for about three years. I have many problems on my street with comcast. Comcast has replace the line from the street to my house I think it was something like 14 times in 12 years. They replace all the cables in my house 3 time in the last 3 years. The post that the cable wire comes out of is rusting away. Comcast has it put dead center where my house and the house next door yards drain. Comcast has replaced more SD cable boxs and HD boxs that I could count. After many calls and going to the Cherry Hill office I was told that the fiber cable that has been replaced three time on my street is bad again and they will not fix it. That is why we have poor pitcher and internet speeds with comcast.
The only phone number I call is the Cherry Hill office 856-354-1660 I do not call the 1888 or 1800.
All most all the house on my street have gone to Sat. I would have gone that way but the company who did my new roof and siding said I would lose my warranty if they put a dish on the house.

Hey! Welcome to AVSForum Frank!

I'm surprised they said 3-5 years, they must have said that just to get you to hang up (which obviously didn't work).

Comcast really needs to work on their customer service.
Yes I deal with Customer service all day long with my job and Comcast is one of the worst to deal with. Now that might not be with all Comcast. But it is here in NJ

Bottom line is you can't call customer service and expect to get any info regarding new channels. More often than not the person you are speaking to is not even in the same state. Don't bother with it, you'll get more info from this website and the local newspapers. My biggest grip with Comcast is that they keep everyone completely in the dark about their plans. Why not put some info about upcoming channels in the package with the monthly bill? That would be too logical. :p

If you call my job and could not give you any thing that you asked for and I knew I would not have a job. I bet if they put some info out there for us to see and give us some hope we would not be looking to leave.
I was told that Fios is about two to three months away. They have been working in my town now since July.

I can not be to safe with me giving out my info. You only have 1 post and I do not know if you really work for comcast.
If you look into this thread You will see with in a year I put in hear that I Have been told that the Garden State system will not be getting any upgrades for about three years. I have many problems on my street with comcast. Comcast has replace the line from the street to my house I think it was something like 14 times in 12 years. They replace all the cables in my house 3 time in the last 3 years. The post that the cable wire comes out of is rusting away. Comcast has it put dead center where my house and the house next door yards drain. Comcast has replaced more SD cable boxs and HD boxs that I could count. After many calls and going to the Cherry Hill office I was told that the fiber cable that has been replaced three time on my street is bad again and they will not fix it. That is why we have poor pitcher and internet speeds with comcast.
The only phone number I call is the Cherry Hill office 856-354-1660 I do not call the 1888 or 1800.
All most all the house on my street have gone to Sat. I would have gone that way but the company who did my new roof and siding said I would lose my warranty if they put a dish on the house.

Daniel that email address is legit. I have talked with Frank in the past. He is the coordinator for the digital outreach thing in Comcast (on BBR, twitter, now here I guess). You can email him safely.

Note it's a cable.comcast.com email addy and not a comcast.net one...that's corporate ;)

One more thing when I called Verizon about Fios they said I could try out for 30 days is DSL Power Plan for free with a free Wireless router included and if I like it it would only cost me $20.00 a month with my phone bill. When Fios comes here I can just drop DSL and go with Fios.
Now I can try them out and see who I like better. What should I do.

I've seen channel changes explained on the monthly paper bills, at least here in New England.

I can not be to safe with me giving out my info. You only have 1 post and I do not know if you really work for comcast.


I can assure you this person works for Comcast and has the authority to help you - see my PM to you.

Manassas Va now has Ultra 30 and Extreme 50 Internet speeds available! Does this mean that Comcast in Manassas has the capabiliy to add more HD channels if they can offer the new High Speed Internet? Ultra runs about 65 a month and Extreme 50 runs 139.95 a month. Still waiting on FX HD Foxnews HD and Speed HD here!

One more thing when I called Verizon about Fios they said I could try out for 30 days is DSL Power Plan for free with a free Wireless router included and if I like it it would only cost me $20.00 a month with my phone bill. When Fios comes here I can just drop DSL and go with Fios.
Now I can try them out and see who I like better. What should I do.

Contact Frank (Comcastcares), he is very helpful and legit !

-Ken

Manassas Va now has Ultra 30 and Extreme 50 Internet speeds available! Does this mean that Comcast in Manassas has the capabiliy to add more HD channels if they can offer the new High Speed Internet? Ultra runs about 65 a month and Extreme 50 runs 139.95 a month. Still waiting on FX HD Foxnews HD and Speed HD here!

It means Comcast is using DOSIS 3.0 which actually uses more channel space (it allows the simultaneous (bonding) use of four channles). DOSIS 3.0 does make more efficient use of the allocated space. So unless Comcast increases the availble space by upgrading the bandwidth or reducing the analog channels their will not be room for additional HD channels. Of course Comcast could squeeze more channels into a QAM slot, with possible quality reduction, but that is covered in another AVS thread.

You're one of the showcase markets that's all digital though.

There's places like NNJ which hasn't seen any new national HD channel since October of 2007, and we're stuck with only 27 total HD channels.

In NE NJ, we don't even have that many! Reprehensible.

There's places like NNJ which hasn't seen any new national HD channel since October of 2007, and we're stuck with only 27 total HD channels.

In NE NJ, we don't even have that many! Reprehensible.

I fell both of your Pain!
We might be a small state but boy do we have a lot of people in it.

I fell both of your Pain!
We might be a small state but boy do we have a lot of people in it.

The most densely populated state in the country. And, what makes Comcast's disregard for their subscribers even worse is comparing it to what Cablevision NJ offers (over 60 HD channels, I believe). Even if ComCrap added, say, 20 channels tomorrow (LOL!!!), they'd still be so far behind the curve as to make them irrelevant when FiOS shows up.

I just got in the Mail today from Verizon was the channel line up for Fios HD so fare I have counted 89 HD channels I could get when Fios is turn on in my town. There might be more channels right now because my wife took the add before I could finish counting the HD channels. She took it next door.
Maxman AVS Member who lives the next town over has told me he has something like 115 HD Channles with Fios.
We have something like 25 to 27 HD Channles with comcast and we pay more. Boy something not right with this. I hope Comcast wakes up soon.
I am waiting for Frank to call me back from Comcast.

This Comcast NJ system with the lack of HD channels, is it contiguous with other Comcast systems? In other words, is it connected geographically with other Comcast systems, or is it an "island" surrounded by other carriers, possibly Time Warner and/or Cablevison?

Probably a long shot, but it's quite possible that Comcast is looking to sell or swap the system to another carrier, and could be waiting for a new regime at the FCC to make the sale/swap smoother.

Comcast already has started in some areas to reduce the number of analog channels from about 70 to about 30. The 40 channel reduction should allow about 100 additional HD channels. I believe Comcast will have the analog channel reduction completed by the end of 2009. Also Comcast is working to upgrade the cable components to increase the bandwidth allocated for cable. This will allow additional HD channels. Comcast is also looking to implement switched video which will allow a much greater number of HD channels. As in any business Comcast knows it has to be competitive to retain and attract customers, but the biggest problem is the size of the Comcast system which does not allow all areas to be upgraded quickly.

Comcast already has started in some areas to reduce the number of analog channels from about 70 to about 30. The 40 channel reduction should allow about 100 additional HD channels. I believe Comcast will have the analog channel reduction completed by the end of 2009. Also Comcast is working to upgrade the cable components to increase the bandwidth allocated for cable. This will allow additional HD channels. Comcast is also looking to implement switched video which will allow a much greater number of HD channels. As in any business Comcast knows it has to be competitive to retain and attract customers, but the biggest problem is the size of the Comcast system which does not allow all areas to be upgraded quickly.

Yup, that's one of the drawbacks to a land-based hardwired system, it can take forever to get everything upgraded everywhere, and even then the first areas upgraded can be behind the curve when the last areas are completed. It took many years(5-6?) before the 550MHz systems in the SF bay are were finally upgraded. Now, those 1GHz systems have the capacity that the earlier systems, 750/860 don't have, and as a consequence those earlier didn't get any new channels with the last rollout of new HD channels here recently.

With the voluntary hold on analog>digital conversions being put off until after March, I wouldn't expect any significant increases in HD channels anywhere.

The below could also have an impact, if the incoming president wants to hold off on the digital switch it's not a stretch to consider that cable analog>digital conversions might also be held up a bit longer.

Obama Seeks DTV Switch Delay
http://www.tvweek.com/news/2009/01/obama_seeks_dtv_switch_delay.php

This Comcast NJ system with the lack of HD channels, is it contiguous with other Comcast systems? In other words, is it connected geographically with other Comcast systems, or is it an "island" surrounded by other carriers, possibly Time Warner and/or Cablevison?

Probably a long shot, but it's quite possible that Comcast is looking to sell or swap the system to another carrier, and could be waiting for a new regime at the FCC to make the sale/swap smoother.

For the most part, the NNJ systems are connected together. I think Time Warner comes in Essex county a bit, but Union county and northern middlesex county (where I'm located and the Union system is) is all together. We used to be suburban cablevision if I'm not mistaken.

If they sell us off, I'd be happy.

Edit: I found a great map that shows how NJ is broken down:

http://www.ctvaa.com/njmap.gif

Edit: I found a great map that shows how NJ is broken down:


That is quite the cluster....

In NE NJ, we don't even have that many! Reprehensible.

Some areas of South Jersey aren't much better. Here's my HD lineup:

13 National HD Networks:
ESPNHD,ESPN2HD,NFLHD,
TNTHD, DHDTheater, VS-HD,GolfHD,
UniversalHD,PalladiaHD,NatGeoHD,
A&EHD,TBSHD,TLCHD

4 Premium HD Channels:
HBOHD,STARZHD, ShowtimeHD and CinemaxHD

1 Local RSN:
CSNHD

7 Local HD Networks:
ABC,NBC,CBS,FOX,MyTVHD,CWHD,PBSHD

Unlike most people here, my biggest gripe isn't quantity, it's quality. Of the 13 National HD networks I get, I barely watch 5 of them. The 2 ESPN's and NFL Network, a bit of TNTHD and even less UniversalHD. The other 8 could disappear tomorrow and I wouldn't even notice until next October when the MLB playoffs start on TBS. If Comcast replaced the 8 dogs with USA, Sci-FI, Food Network, History and Discovery HD channels, I would be perfectly content with their lineup. If they threw in a few cable news channels, like Fox, CNN or MSNBC, even better. As it stands now, I am seriously considering dumping everything and going with just Internet and Limited Basic after the SuperBowl and see if I miss anything. I doubt I will.

Daniel,
I wanted to write back regarding the obvious misinformation you were provided. As an avid HD fan in the Philadelphia region I can assure you that we are working hard to expand the HD offerings in all the areas we are in. As we transition more channels from analog to digital, we will be able to increase the amount of HD channel offerings. This is a process that will continue and you will see more HD channels! Until the channels are publicly announced, I would not be able to provide details but I did want you to know that will be working to do this, and it will not be 3 to 5 years

I would like to review your interactions, so if it would not be too much trouble, please email me your account information with a link to this forum.

Thank you!
Frank Eliason
Comcast
frank_eliason@cable.comcast.com

OK I had a very good talk with Frank Eliason today for a bout 30 min.
He is a very nice guy. He has ben watching this forum for some time now. He is working to get there Customers service better. He all so know what is making some of us mad!! and what is making some leave Comcast. He told me He is working very hard to get Customer service to get it fix.

Thank you for the call today Frank.
Daniel Murray

Yup, that's one of the drawbacks to a land-based hardwired system, it can take forever to get everything upgraded everywhere, and even then the first areas upgraded can be behind the curve when the last areas are completed.Satellite has the opposite problem: It can take "forever" to get every local broadcast channel available; and then again "forever" to get every local broadcast channel in HD.

For the most part, the NNJ systems are connected together. I think Time Warner comes in Essex county a bit, but Union county and northern middlesex county (where I'm located and the Union system is) is all together. We used to be suburban cablevision if I'm not mistaken.

If they sell us off, I'd be happy.

Edit: I found a great map that shows how NJ is broken down:



Great find on that map. :)

It was just a guess on my part, but looking at that map, geographically speaking, it would seem to be plausible, but that overlooks topography and population clusters, so who knows.

I know for many of us in the SF bay area who were stuck with just 9-11 HD channels for over 6 years until about 8 mos ago(we actually had SHO-HD pulled from my system), we thought it was never going to happen, it was "painful" seeing the 750/860 systems getting channels and we got nothing. Especially aggravating was that we were paying the same rates as the "haves".

OK I had a very good talk with Frank Eliason today for a bout 30 min.
He is a very nice guy. He has ben watching this forum for some time now. He is working to get there Customers service better. He all so know what is making some of us mad!! and what is making some leave Comcast. He told me He is working very hard to get Customer service to get it fix.

Thank you for the call today Frank.
Daniel Murray

maybe he can hit my cablecard for me.

Satellite has the opposite problem: It can take "forever" to get every local broadcast channel available; and then again "forever" to get every local broadcast channel in HD.

True. Although, here in the SF bay area we're pretty lucky in that I believe we have all the available OTA HD channels on DirecTV, I think there's 7 or 8 of them..?

Satellite has the opposite problem: It can take "forever" to get every local broadcast channel available; and then again "forever" to get every local broadcast channel in HD.

In my area they carry all local broadcast channels in HD (CBS, FOX, NBC, ABC, MY9, PIX, PBS).

If they added just one Indian channel that my parents watch on a daily basis we would have been with them a LONG time ago.

In my area they carry all local broadcast channels in HD (CBS, FOX, NBC, ABC, MY9, PIX, PBS).

If they added just one Indian channel that my parents watch on a daily basis we would have been with them a LONG time ago.

That's what many of the Comcast subs in my area have said, if DirecTV carried Jade, an oriental(?) channel, they would have left Comcast long ago as DirecTV has everything else.

OK Frank had a Comcast send a Tech out today. Well he just left. What he said to me was he see lots of problems in my town and on my street. But the levles look OK. But he see the pitcher problems and the Internet home page problems, post out in the lawn is rusting out, and the Fiber Optics in the post dose not look right.
I asked what is up with that. He says it is the system and nothing he can do about it. It is up to Comcast if they want to look into to it more.
I said Say what! you must be kidding. The levles look OK but there is problems. How can I have problems and the levles look good. To me if there is a problem then there is a problem. The Tech said it is up to Comcast to say if it is a problem they have the last word.
Boy oh Boy

OK Frank had a Comcast send a Tech out today. Well he just left. What he said to me was he see lots of problems in my town and on my street. But the levles look OK. But he see the pitcher problems and the Internet home page problems, post out in the lawn is rusting out, and the Fiber Optics in the post dose not look right.
I asked what is up with that. He says it is the system and nothing he can do about it. It is up to Comcast if they want to look into to it more.
I said Say what! you must be kidding. The levles look OK but there is problems. How can I have problems and the levles look good. To me if there is a problem then there is a problem. The Tech said it is up to Comcast to say if it is a problem they have the last word.
Boy oh Boy

Crikey! I'd talk with Frank again to see if he can escalate it to Engineering or something.

In my area they carry all local broadcast channels in HD (CBS, FOX, NBC, ABC, MY9, PIX, PBS).But not in EVERY area. That was my point.

OK Frank had a Comcast send a Tech out today. Well he just left. What he said to me was he see lots of problems in my town and on my street. But the levles look OK. But he see the pitcher problems and the Internet home page problems, post out in the lawn is rusting out, and the Fiber Optics in the post dose not look right.
I asked what is up with that. He says it is the system and nothing he can do about it. It is up to Comcast if they want to look into to it more.
I said Say what! you must be kidding. The levles look OK but there is problems. How can I have problems and the levles look good. To me if there is a problem then there is a problem. The Tech said it is up to Comcast to say if it is a problem they have the last word.
Boy oh Boy
After all that, he sent out a sub-contractor? The count is 1 and 0 on Frank. :p:D

But not in EVERY area. That was my point.
True, but not every area competes with the other. If the differentiating factor in a given market is simply the amount of "cablenet" HD channels, then the question becomes, why not switch providers? Or, have a hybrid of both as I, as well as many other, have done. Limited Basic(about $18) for local HD and DirecTV for all the rest, plus in some markets you'll have backups of the local HD.:)

After all that, he sent out a sub-contractor? The count is 1 and 0 on Frank. :p:D

It was not a sub-contractor it was a comcast tech in a comcast van.

It was not a sub-contractor it was a comcast tech in a comcast van.

Then I don't understand the point of the visit. The way your post read, it seemed as if he wasn't associated with Comcast as he referred to them in the third person, instead of we/I are/am Comcast, it was "they".

What ever happens, make sure you're not charged for that visit, as when they come out and find "nothing wrong", they will charge you.

OK Frank had a Comcast send a Tech out today. Well he just left. What he said to me was he see lots of problems in my town and on my street. But the levles look OK. But he see the pitcher problems and the Internet home page problems, post out in the lawn is rusting out, and the Fiber Optics in the post dose not look right.
I asked what is up with that. He says it is the system and nothing he can do about it. It is up to Comcast if they want to look into to it more.
I said Say what! you must be kidding. The levles look OK but there is problems. How can I have problems and the levles look good. To me if there is a problem then there is a problem. The Tech said it is up to Comcast to say if it is a problem they have the last word.
Boy oh Boy

It sounds like Comcast needs to send out a repair crew to change a lot of street wiring to give you the picture and internet quality you deserve. However it will cost Comcast a lot of money to do this and he is not in the position to authorize the repairs. He has to escalate this issue to see if Comcast will approve the investment. Unfortunately you also mentioned that all of your neighbors have switched to satellite so it might not be cost effective to do this. I hope they decide to rewire your block since if you become a happy customer you might be able to influence others to switch back to Comcast.

It sounds like Comcast needs to send out a repair crew to change a lot of street wiring to give you the picture and internet quality you deserve. However it will cost Comcast a lot of money to do this and he is not in the position to authorize the repairs. He has to escalate this issue to see if Comcast will approve the investment. Unfortunately you also mentioned that all of your neighbors have switched to satellite so it might not be cost effective to do this. I hope they decide to rewire your block since if you become a happy customer you might be able to influence others to switch back to Comcast.

No most of them went to Satellite. But there is some hold out 9 of us. has not made the move on my street. But when I talked to Frank I think he said that line that I am one all so feeds other streets to.
I know of some who would come back to Comcast because they do not like the dish look on there houses. Plus they would need to get the pitcher quilty back from where it is at now with Comcast and More HD channles.

I'm glad to see that Comcast has someone "lurking" on this board. If they didn't care what we thought, they wouldn't be paying attention.
For those of you on the east coast, I just noticed today that CN8 is carrying a LOT of live hockey games all of the sudden. Right now I'm watching Chicago @ Colorado from the CSN-Chicago feed, and earlier they showed Minnesota @ Phila. Tomorrow, they're showing Columbus @ Washington and San Jose @ Edmonton. All of these are from the respective Comcast Sportsnet feeds, and I know that the NHL permits networks like Comcast show games like these out of their markets. Good move by Comcast to use more of the live content they already have the rights to. Hopefully we'll see it in HD soon, and maybe someday MLB will let providers show games outside of their markets like this.

On another note, we all know that Comcast claims to be the defender of consumers when it comes to the cost of sports programming. Except, I guess, when they are the sports programmer. Comcast Sportsnet is now in the unique position of defending their price increases- 25% for CSN New England and 40% for CSN Bay Area. All of this when they are moving the Sharks and A's to CSN California, forcing cable and sat providers in the Bay Area to carry both CSN Bay Area and CSN California.
When an independent channel has rights to teams, the fees are "exorbitant". When Comcast wants more money, the increase "reflects the growing value of our networks."
The rest of the story is at http://www.multichannel.com/article/CA6627432.html

Comcast making switch to digital signals in Portland area

The cable company's conversion is different from the national switch, which may confuse some customers

Friday, January 09, 2009
MIKE ROGOWAY
The Oregonian Staff

As the nation readies for a complex, long-anticipated switch to digital television broadcasts, Portland-area cable viewers are learning they'll have to make their own transition.

Comcast Corp. will soon require most customers to have a digital set-top box or digital adapter, which will bring more channels, high-definition programs and -- eventually -- faster Internet access. Many viewers already have digital cable equipment, and most of the rest will get free equipment to make the shift themselves.

But Comcast's transition, coinciding with the national switch to digital TV broadcasts, will make TV more complicated as broadcast and cable viewers each make similar, but separate, transitions.

"We do have some concerns about the timing and confusion for customers," said Jim Demmon of the Clark County/Vancouver Telecommunications Commission, which regulates cable TV in much of southwest Washington.

"The timing is poor," Demmon said. "Of course, I don't know that there would ever be a great time to go through this transition."

Here is what's happening:

National broadcasters are poised to switch from analog to digital broadcasts after Feb. 17. Everyone who watches TV over the air -- with an antenna, instead of cable or satellite -- will need a digital TV or digital converter box. The incoming Obama administration said Thursday it wants congressional action to delay that transition, but the Bush administration said it intends to push ahead.

In a separate and unrelated transition, Comcast is switching most customers in the Portland-metro area from analog signals to digital. Many Comcast customers already have digital cable, which offers more channels and high-definition programs, but may not have digital on every TV in their house. They'll need the gear whether their TV is digital or not.

On Thursday, the company defended the timing of its switch and emphasized that customers will benefit from expanded high-def programming right away and faster Web connections down the road.

"Customers want HD now, and we have the ability to do it now," company spokeswoman Theressa Davis said. "This is something customers are going to enjoy."

Comcast has nearly 600,000 subscribers in Oregon and southwest Washington.

Portland-area subscribers with the company's most basic plan -- which carries only local broadcast stations and a smattering of government and educational programming -- don't need the new boxes. That's about 16 percent of all customers, according to the company.

Comcast will send letters to affected subscribers explaining the switch and outlining steps they need to take. The company will provide the necessary equipment for customers to install themselves, or customers can have Comcast do the work for a $17 one-time charge.

Customers who want to hook up more than three TVs to digital cable must pay $2 to buy each additional cable adapter. There's no new monthly fee associated with the switch.

Digital signals take less space on Comcast's network, enabling the company to offer more channels and high-definition programming.

The company has already begun the transition elsewhere in Oregon, including Salem and Eugene. In Eugene, city telecom manager Pam Berrian said there has been only modest confusion about the transition and Comcast's various cable plans.

The Portland area's transition will start in Vancouver, where Comcast subscribers began getting letters from Comcast this week. Subscribers in Clark and Cowlitz counties must have their new digital cable boxes by March 18.

Subscribers in Portland and its Oregon suburbs will make the change in phases, beginning next month. Comcast will notify each subscriber when it's time for the switch.

Subscribers to Comcast's expanded basic analog package, who lost MSBNC and other cable networks last year when the cable operator reduced its analog programming, will get those channels back when they switch to digital.

Current digital subscribers will get 10 new channels after the switch, including Discovery Kids, Bloomberg, the Biography Channel and WE, along with about 30 new high-definition channels in addition to as many as 40 they can already receive.

http://www.oregonlive.com/business/oregonian/index.ssf?/base/business/1231476915177900.xml&coll=7

I'm glad to see that Comcast has someone "lurking" on this board. If they didn't care what we thought, they wouldn't be paying attention.
For those of you on the east coast, I just noticed today that CN8 is carrying a LOT of live hockey games all of the sudden. Right now I'm watching Chicago @ Colorado from the CSN-Chicago feed, and earlier they showed Minnesota @ Phila. Tomorrow, they're showing Columbus @ Washington and San Jose @ Edmonton. All of these are from the respective Comcast Sportsnet feeds, and I know that the NHL permits networks like Comcast show games like these out of their markets. Good move by Comcast to use more of the live content they already have the rights to. Hopefully we'll see it in HD soon, and maybe someday MLB will let providers show games outside of their markets like this.

The out of market NHL games come from Comcast's deal for the NHL on Versus (Comcast owns Versus). In the SF Bay Area, they've showed some out of market games for a while. In Northern NJ, the new Comcast Network (old CN8) shows the games in the guide but they're blacked out.

On another note, we all know that Comcast claims to be the defender of consumers when it comes to the cost of sports programming. Except, I guess, when they are the sports programmer. Comcast Sportsnet is now in the unique position of defending their price increases- 25% for CSN New England and 40% for CSN Bay Area. All of this when they are moving the Sharks and A's to CSN California, forcing cable and sat providers in the Bay Area to carry both CSN Bay Area and CSN California.
When an independent channel has rights to teams, the fees are "exorbitant". When Comcast wants more money, the increase "reflects the growing value of our networks."
The rest of the story is at http://www.multichannel.com/article/CA6627432.html

This is why I've always thought that cable companies should not be allowed to own programming. It creates a huge conflict of interest in pricing and competition. The FCC should also have rules in place about settling pricing disputes and agreements for local/regional channels being "must-carry".

Comcast is smart for spreading out their programming over their two channels in the Bay Area, but the price increases are unjust.

Comcast making switch to digital signals in Portland area
...

Same plan for Seattle.

[QUOTE=Marcus Carr;15505656]Comcast making switch to digital signals in Portland area

They did that here back in October, but have only added three HD channels since!! :mad:

Does anyone else share my guilty pleasure...I blow off steam related to Comcast by using the online support chat. I ask them about new HD when I already know the answer...and argue with them.

So they're wasting time with you instead of being available for someone who actually needs their assistance. Ooooooo kay. <backs away slowly>

Does anyone else share my guilty pleasure...I blow off steam related to Comcast by using the online support chat. I ask them about new HD when I already know the answer...and argue with them.

lol.

My girlfriend thinks they're bots. I explain that they are not. Too many spelling errors and colorful conversations.

So they're wasting time with you instead of being available for someone who actually needs their assistance. Ooooooo kay. <backs away slowly>
Have you ever dealt with them? I'm not wasting their time...they are wasting ours. The only service they provide is to tell you to call your local office.

Yes, I've dealt with them. You are wasting the time that they have to offer to others.

Yes, I've dealt with them. You are wasting the time that they have to offer to others.
Then they should provide customers (and their own employees) with the proper information. We should all be wasting their time.

Comcast is smart for spreading out their programming over their two channels in the Bay Area, but the price increases are unjust.

On their side, I can see why they are raising the rates because they are building a new HD studio there and hiring a bunch of people to support the new sports news operation. Like you mentioned, moving the A's makes sense because now each net can carry more games. CSN BA will carry all Giants games and CSN Ca will now carry all A's games. Unfortunately, this requires adding another expensive channel on basic cable.
My big gripe with Comcast is that if this was an independent channel like MASN, they would be making excuses to not carry it and calling it "overpriced".

Then they should provide customers (and their own employees) with the proper information. This has nothing to do with the message you replied to.

This has nothing to do with the message you replied to.
...yes it does.

My big gripe with Comcast is that if this was an independent channel like MASN, they would be making excuses to not carry it and calling it "overpriced".

That's just the way it is nowadays, they know darn well that that two-faced rhetoric is not fooling anyone, it's just another tool in contract negotiations. In a negotiation such as this, always ask for the moon and then let the other side beat you down on the price. In the case of CSNBA, given what little facts we have, I suspect that it will never get to the arbitration stage as Comcast has too much to lose. The current contract is only a few years old, and I can't see any arbitration agreeing that a 40% increase in price for 30% less product is a fair deal in such a short time span. A few days before the 15 days is up, I'm sure we'll see Comcast and DirecTV reach a deal, and I suspect it will be substantially less than what Comcast originally asked for.

You never really see DirecTV disputing costs for the channels they carry(you see it all the time with Dish), so it stands to reason that they pay a pretty fair price for the content they carry, and to have them come out publicly and say that Comcast is out of line really says a lot

That's just the way it is nowadays, they know darn well that that two-faced rhetoric is not fooling anyone, it's just another tool in contract negotiations. In a negotiation such as this, always ask for the moon and then let the other side beat you down on the price. In the case of CSNBA, given what little facts we have, I suspect that it will never get to the arbitration stage as Comcast has too much to lose. The current contract is only a few years old, and I can't see any arbitration agreeing that a 40% increase in price for 30% less product is a fair deal in such a short time span. A few days before the 15 days is up, I'm sure we'll see Comcast and DirecTV reach a deal, and I suspect it will be substantially less than what Comcast originally asked for.

You never really see DirecTV disputing costs for the channels they carry(you see it all the time with Dish), so it stands to reason that they pay a pretty fair price for the content they carry, and to have them come out publicly and say that Comcast is out of line really says a lot

If I were running things in the FCC (and maybe it's good that I'm not), among other carriage laws, I would have the following (I won't touch analog here)...
the "basic" cable package must carry both the SD and HD feeds for any over-the-air, local, or regional stations, including local/public access, regional news, and regional sports."must carry" means that if the owner of the channel and cable/satelite provider cannot come to an agreement, an arbitrator will.if the two parties are the same, an arbitrator can determine a fair price based on what other providers pay.
in the collective territories of the Giants, A's, Sharks, Warriors, Kings, 49ers, and Raiders, both CSN stations (and any overflow) are "must-carry" in my rules in both HD AND SD. blackout restrictions apply (Warriors and Kings mostly in this example). where all the teams are blackedout, the channel isn't must-carry.

Again, this is what one of the rules would be if I were running the show, with rules in place to make sure customers don't lose the local/regional programming or are forced to overpay.

I believe Comcast will have the analog channel reduction completed by the end of 2009.

you are far more optimistic than myself.

Two of my channels weren't and still aren't working. HDNet and HDNet Movies. I got the black screen with the message, "ONE MOMENT PLEASE This channel should be available shortly."

Great...this has been a problem lately, but only with those two channels. I gave them a call. They tried to send a signal and nothing happened. They tried to do something else and I lost the program guide info, but the time updated. They tried something else and now I have 12:00 on my display and no program guide info. All my channels are working with the exception of those two. There was a problem and it only got worse when they got involved.

They wanted to send someone out on Monday. Umm...no. There was no way I was going to wait until Monday. I've been trying to get this problem fixed for month now. I'm not waiting any longer. Someone will be here tomorrow...

In the arbitration rules under the "Adelphia Order"* from 2006, the FCC has specified that if a carrier had already been showing a channel, that channel cannot be cut off during arbitration. As far as what was said about "must carry", this arbitration rule is specifically for regional sports networks because their content "cannot be duplicated within its home territory". I had seen it applied when an independent channel was at an impasse with a cable company (MASN v. Time Warner), but I didn't know that it applied when someone had a problem with an RSN owned by a cable company.

* The Adelphia Order was one of the conditions of Comcast and Time Warner buying Adelphia. The FCC felt that creating the largest two cable companies would give them motive to discriminate against independent programmers so they could take over the programming rights for themselves.

this is why i made up my own rules, with the idea that nobody gets screwed. I've read too many posts about MASN, SNY, YES, MSGHD/MSG+HD Ch4 Padres not being carried for whatever reasons.

you are far more optimistic than myself.

They need to do this to stay competitive. The only problem Comcast has is getting a sufficient supply of low cost adapters that can be used tio tune in the digital channels below 100 (which will not be scrambled unless Comcast can get a waiver form the FCC).

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=15229094#post15229094

They need to do this to stay competitive. The only problem Comcast has is getting a sufficient supply of low cost adapters that can be used tio tune in the digital channels below 100 (which will not be scrambled unless Comcast can get a waiver form the FCC).

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=15229094#post15229094

I heard there is some sort of encryption called privacy mode. Read about it on BBR.

They need to do this to stay competitive. The only problem Comcast has is getting a sufficient supply of low cost adapters that can be used tio tune in the digital channels below 100 (which will not be scrambled unless Comcast can get a waiver form the FCC).

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=15229094#post15229094

I heard there is some sort of encryption called privacy mode. Read about it on BBR.
They do, but, they need the aforementioned FCC waiver to use it.

When will Comcast add the following HD channels to their markets: Smithsonian, MTV, VH1, CMT, MSNBC, ESPNU, MLB, HDNet Movies, ION, BET, Crime & Investigation, Comedy Central, Chiller, & TruTV?

When will Comcast add the following HD channels to their markets: Smithsonian, MTV, VH1, CMT, MSNBC, ESPNU, MLB, HDNet Movies, ION, BET, Crime & Investigation, Comedy Central, Chiller, & TruTV?

First those channels have to actually be available in HD. Secondly, look in the first post and you may find some that are in HD are already available on comcast.

When will Comcast add the following HD channels to their markets: Smithsonian, MTV, VH1, CMT, MSNBC, ESPNU, MLB, HDNet Movies, ION, BET, Crime & Investigation, Comedy Central, Chiller, & TruTV?

Expect MLB HD before the season begins. TruTV I heard isn't a for a while down the road, maybe Q3 09 or so. MSNBC might be Q2 09.

I love Comcast. Everything except local channels is encrypted if it is digital. I just hooked up one of the digital converter boxes to an HD monitor I had upstairs and got 8 channels, 5 local channels, 2 shopping and the TV Guide.

So why is that a Comcast problem? Most cable systems encrypt everything but the locals and a few other channels.

They just started encrypting all there channels except locals last month here. Sucks big time for my Media Center PC. It was the only reason I had to stay with comcast other than the internet.

All HD channels have been encrypted here in Denver within a few days after being added. SD digital appears to be unencrypted, but I never watch those channels, so I'm not sure if all of them are truly available.

All HD channels have been encrypted here in Denver within a few days after being added. SD digital appears to be unencrypted, but I never watch those channels, so I'm not sure if all of them are truly available.

In Denver, HD locals are in the clear, but all other HD channels (except premiums) are in their own package, an "HD Programming Tier" which costs extra per month (and you have to pay the extra fee for each HD receiver you have, on top of the charge for renting that receiver!). Because the channels aren't in a basic level package, they must be encrypted.

SD channels that are part of the limited basic package are in the clear. A handful of channels in Digital Starter are also unencrypted. The rest are encrypted, except Video On Demand, which is always in the clear (even PPV features).

Thanks for clarifying, dvdmth.

Daniel,
I wanted to write back regarding the obvious misinformation you were provided. As an avid HD fan in the Philadelphia region I can assure you that we are working hard to expand the HD offerings in all the areas we are in. As we transition more channels from analog to digital, we will be able to increase the amount of HD channel offerings. This is a process that will continue and you will see more HD channels! Until the channels are publicly announced, I would not be able to provide details but I did want you to know that will be working to do this, and it will not be 3 to 5 years

I would like to review your interactions, so if it would not be too much trouble, please email me your account information with a link to this forum.

Thank you!
Frank Eliason
Comcast
frank_eliason@cable.comcast.com

Here is a write-up on Mr. Eliason in Business week - Frank keep up the good work!

http://www.businessweek.com/managing/content/jan2009/ca20090113_373506.htm

Recently spoke to a Comcast representative & the city of Chicago will get the following channels:

Nickelodeon HD-channel 225
Lifetime HD-channel 228
Spike HD-channel 290






More channels will be added, but which ones & when is yet to be announced.

It's available now in Chicago this morning.

In Denver, HD locals are in the clear, but all other HD channels (except premiums) are in their own package, an "HD Programming Tier" which costs extra per month (and you have to pay the extra fee for each HD receiver you have, on top of the charge for renting that receiver!). Because the channels aren't in a basic level package, they must be encrypted.

SD channels that are part of the limited basic package are in the clear. A handful of channels in Digital Starter are also unencrypted. The rest are encrypted, except Video On Demand, which is always in the clear (even PPV features).

In many areas, Southest PA they encrypted OnDemand a few months back. Eventually they'll probably encrypt it everywhere. It seems to be the same for most areas, HD locals unencrypted, digital SD locals, must-carry's in digital format, and sometimes a few random SD digital cable channels, like MSNBC, weather channel, etc. Universal HD is also widely distributed uncrypted.

Porky, Chicagoan,

Are you within City limits or suburban. Some times Chicagoans get channels we don't. We've had Lifetime HD for a few months in Des Plaines, IL. I am wondering if the burbs will get Nick?

Porky, Chicagoan,

Are you within City limits or suburban. Some times Chicagoans get channels we don't. We've had Lifetime HD for a few months in Des Plaines, IL. I am wondering if the burbs will get Nick?

I'm in the city.

Does anyone know.... is there any way to tell when Comcast will be adding new HD channels in my area?

Do I need to just call 'em up and ask, or will that accomplish nothing?

Does anyone know.... is there any way to tell when Comcast will be adding new HD channels in my area?

Do I need to just call 'em up and ask, or will that accomplish nothing?

This one of the best places for that information. If you don't see
any new HD for your area mentioned here, then no one here knows of any.

You should also be able to find a local threead for your area here - http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/forumdisplay.php?f=45

Comcast CSRs (Customer Service Reps) rarely know anything or are told anything in advance. Search this thread for CSR or CSRs and you'll see others that agree with this.

People in St. Paul here are receiving flyers at their homes/apartments promising "more HD in February 2009" - no specifics.

People in St. Paul here are receiving flyers at their homes/apartments promising "more HD in February 2009" - no specifics.

There was some mention of Houston getting more channels in February too. Though there is no mention of which ones

Hmm nothing here in Jersey yet, although they'll have 4 free channels for HD starting on 1/27 so we'll probably see new HD in feb as well.

Anyone have MLB Network in HD yet?

There was some mention of Houston getting more channels in February too. Though there is no mention of which ones
Houston getting more HD... Surely you jest. All we're getting is a rate increase February 1.

Anyone have MLB Network in HD yet?

Not yet. I safely assume it's on the plans to be on most Comcast systems that have the room by the beginning of the baseball season.

All we're getting is a rate increase February 1.

Here in Denver, we're getting a rate increase for Basic, Standard, and Digital Starter in February. What's interesting is that after the rate changes, Standard and Digital Starter will have the same monthly rate. I suspect this may be a sign that we might see Expanded Basic channels move to digital only soon. (Standard cable is Basic + Expanded Basic.)

Not yet. I safely assume it's on the plans to be on most Comcast systems that have the room by the beginning of the baseball season.

I'd bet before then. If the marquee event on the MLB Network is supposed to be the WBC, they should have it ready on all Comcast systems by then.

I'd bet before then. If the marquee event on the MLB Network is supposed to be the WBC, they should have it ready on all Comcast systems by then.
That would make sense, as Comcast added ESPN2 in HD just in time for the Fifa World Cup back in '06. So, this time, MLB HD would be available for the WBC. Actually, the assumption is that the WBC will be generated in HD, which I really do not know.

Here in Denver, we're getting a rate increase for Basic, Standard, and Digital Starter in February. What's interesting is that after the rate changes, Standard and Digital Starter will have the same monthly rate. I suspect this may be a sign that we might see Expanded Basic channels move to digital only soon. (Standard cable is Basic + Expanded Basic.)
Since my billing cycle is late-month, I've yet to see the bill, but I got a copy of my Boss's bill insert.

In Houston, Standard Service and Digital Starter are going from $47.98 and $51.98 to $51.50 - resulting in both being the same rate.

What pains me is DVR service is going from $8.95 (SD) and $12.95 (HD) to $10.95 and $14.95 respectively. We still have only 31 HD channels (HDNet Movies and MOJO gone in 2008, Golf HD, Weather Channel HD and MyNetworkTV HD added.) which is an increase of 1 channel over this time last year.

I'm frustrated to the point of figuring out how to put a dish on my apartment (they allow them, it's just my view of the Southern sky is limited.) - My Time Warner bill was $77.14 in January 2006, now it's $104.35 since Comcast took over and going to go higher - and the only change I made in that time was to swap a non-HD box for an HD box (I already had an HD DVR).

For the past 2 weeks or so I haven't been able to get Science Channel HD, it shows up as "Not Authorized." But SciHD isn't a premium channel or anything, right? So why would it be blocked like that?

I've contacted Comcast twice now and both times they said its a "network problem" and it'll be fixed within 48 hours. Well it's still not fixed...

Anyone ever had this problem?

Yes, we had that on Sci Fi here in Denver. We had the same story, that it would be fixed in 48 hours. After that time I was still receiving the message so I called again and the CSR said that the problem had been corrected. My box hadn't "fixed" itself, so she had to reset the box remotely. She actually had to send a second (different) command than the basic reset, as the first didn't work (box did reset, but it didn't fix the problem).

SE PA will have DTAs available as of 1/20. They'll probably have B2 digital in a few months I would imagine.

Comcast of Union will have DTAs available as of 1/27. Yay!

DTA's?

DTA's?

Digital Terminal Adapter - It allows the incoming digital cable signal to be converted to analog for use on legacy analog displays/TVs. It's use is a method for a cable company to convert more of it's lineup to digital(to gain bandwidth) and not disenfranchise those folks with analog TVs.

http://www.lightreading.com/document.asp?doc_id=152618&site=cdn

Digital Terminal Adapter - It allows the incoming digital cable signal to be converted to analog for use on legacy analog displays/TVs. It's use is a method for a cable company to convert more of it's lineup to digital(to gain bandwidth) and not disenfranchise those folks with analog TVs.

http://www.lightreading.com/document.asp?doc_id=152618&site=cdn

So, on Comcast of Union NJ, approx. how many new HD channels could we see from this?

If your system goes all-digital, figure you could get everything Comcast has to offer in HD, basically everything in Green or Orange in the Comcast column of the table in this post:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=14422029&postcount=1

If your system goes all-digital, figure you could get everything Comcast has to offer in HD, basically everything in Green or Orange in the Comcast column of the table in this post:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=14422029&postcount=1

Never happen in NJ.

So in other words new HD channels in NJ on 1/27?

Digital Terminal Adapter - It allows the incoming digital cable signal to be converted to analog for use on legacy analog displays/TVs. It's use is a method for a cable company to convert more of it's lineup to digital(to gain bandwidth) and not disenfranchise those folks with analog TVs.

http://www.lightreading.com/document.asp?doc_id=152618&site=cdn

I got a postcard in the mail yesterday stating that Comcast is now allowing up to 2 of these at no add'tl cost to digital starter subsribers. No mention of pulling a massive amount of analog channels, but with them starting to deploy DTAs right now, makes me think by year's end they will make the move.

I'm just outside Philly in Lower Bucks, all the philly suburbs in SE PA seem to launch new channels, etc at the same time, so hopefully this is the start of a wider-scale deployment across the "Freedom" region of Comcast.

Expanded Basic(B2 tier) digital channels also went unencrypted...

So in other words new HD channels in NJ on 1/27?

Almost for sure - not.

The bandwidth doesn't free up to add more HD until they can turn off analogs. They won't turn off analogs until they've given subscribers a reasonable amount of time to pick up and install the DTAs -- probably at least a month -- more like 2 or 3.

I got a postcard in the mail yesterday stating that Comcast is now allowing up to 2 of these at no add'tl cost to digital starter subsribers.

For how long are they free? Did the postcard have a time limit (for one year, etc.)?

Did you guys talk about the law suit from the FCC for changing analog channels to digital with short notice. I didn't see it earlier.

Did you guys talk about the law suit from the FCC for changing analog channels to digital with short notice. I didn't see it earlier.

I've seen bits and pieces. It is actually about shutting off analogs with short notice.

There is nothing wrong with giving people DTAs to access the digital feeds of channels they already subscribe to.

No, it is actually about switching cable networks from analog to digital without reducing pricing for customers who wish to remain analog-only.

Advance notice is a separate issue, and one that cable companies don't worry about -- they acknowledge and recognize the need for notice, and don't object to it. Unfortunately, that's not what the fines were about. Instead, the fines were intended to punish cable companies because they didn't lower prices when the moved analog channels to digital.

Of course, there was no consideration of the fact that the cable company is charged exactly the same by the network regardless of whether the channel is on analog or digital-only.

Never happen in NJ.

Oh, it'll happen. It's going to happen in the next few months. We might see some HD next week, keep an eye on the Star Ledger for possible announcements.

So in other words new HD channels in NJ on 1/27?

Maybe 12 HD channels at most coming on the 27th, or somewhere around there. Depends on if they can get the QAMs set up on the empty channels and get the HD channels working, and the channel maps out on the same night. Definitely not 50+ HD channels; that'll be in a few months like Oregon.

Almost for sure - not.

The bandwidth doesn't free up to add more HD until they can turn off analogs. They won't turn off analogs until they've given subscribers a reasonable amount of time to pick up and install the DTAs -- probably at least a month -- more like 2 or 3.

Yep, 2 to 3 months probably.

No, it is actually about switching cable networks from analog to digital without reducing pricing for customers who wish to remain analog-only.

Advance notice is a separate issue, and one that cable companies don't worry about -- they acknowledge and recognize the need for notice, and don't object to it. Unfortunately, that's not what the fines were about. Instead, the fines were intended to punish cable companies because they didn't lower prices when the moved analog channels to digital.

Of course, there was no consideration of the fact that the cable company is charged exactly the same by the network regardless of whether the channel is on analog or digital-only.

Who cares? The subscriber can't pick and choose what channels they want beyond an all or nothing type of package. If channels previously available to analog subs are now gone, with no adjustment in the price paid by the sub, then the cable company should be called on it. If the cable company wants to start offering a-la-carte, then it's a different story, but they don't, and that's why the FCC has initiated the inquiry.

I'm not a big fan of Comcast, or the FCC, but in this case, the FCC seems to have the "just" position.

This corporate thinking is similar to the trouble Comcast is about to get into over it's digital phone service. They claim it's not VoIP, yet they say it's not categorized as simple POTS either which is subject to regulatory fees, taxes, etc. Can't have it both ways. This subject came up over the recent bandwidth usage scheme Comcast is implementing where heavy users would have their service "reduced" until such point the congestion was reduced, yet Comcast Digital Voice would not be affected by the scheme. If it's not VoIP, which is not subject to the above regulations, then it has to be a separate network which is subject to POTS style regs.

BTW, anyone hear when that subscriber bandwidth usage meter Comcast was going to implement is supposed to go online?

Who cares?The FCC cares. That's the point.

If channels previously available to analog subs are now gone, with no adjustment in the price paid by the sub, then the cable company should be called on it.Comcast can be called at 1-800-COMCAST. The subscriber can cancel their subscription, and be done with it.

I'm not a big fan of Comcast, or the FCC, but in this case, the FCC seems to have the "just" position.Not even close. If the FCC wants cheaper entertainment and information, let them fund it with tax money. Otherwise, let the market determine what the price should be.

For the past 2 weeks or so I haven't been able to get Science Channel HD, it shows up as "Not Authorized." But SciHD isn't a premium channel or anything, right? So why would it be blocked like that?

I've contacted Comcast twice now and both times they said its a "network problem" and it'll be fixed within 48 hours. Well it's still not fixed...

Anyone ever had this problem?
Do you also not get Natl. Geo.? In many areas, with channel/service restructuring, Sci.HD and Natl. Geo.HD have been left in Digital Classic, with the SD versions, rather than moving to Digital Starter (Standard); possibly you don't subscribe to Classic?

SE PA will have DTAs available as of 1/20. They'll probably have B2 digital in a few months I would imagine.
Well, not all. Here in the Willow Grove, PA system (eastern 1/3 of Mont. Co.), our Jan. bill says they will be available on 10 Feb.

Also, mentions that Digital Starter now includes choice of Digital Box or DTA plus two more DTAs. Addtl. DTAs $2/mo.

No mention of them being required at any time. Of course, we know they will be, but many don't know. I guess we will get letters like others have; I assume to arrive ~10 Feb.

I got a postcard in the mail yesterday stating that Comcast is now allowing up to 2 of these at no add'tl cost to digital starter subsribers. No mention of pulling a massive amount of analog channels, but with them starting to deploy DTAs right now, makes me think by year's end they will make the move...
More like early Spring.:)

For how long are they free? Did the postcard have a time limit (for one year, etc.)?
AFAIK, in all of the areas with DTAs, Digital Starter now includes three boxes. For the first box, a given area either includes a Digital Box or gives the choice of Digital Box or DTA. Second and third boxes are DTAs. Addtl. DTAs are $2/mo. This is the regular deal.

More like early Spring.:)

Yeah, I'd expect it the latest middle of Q209 for both SE PA and NNJ to go digital.

I wouldn't be surprised if our entire region goes digital though. It seems as if for now they're doing SE PA and NNJ and leaving out Philly and SNJ. They shouldn't be far behind though.

Who cares? The subscriber can't pick and choose what channels they want beyond an all or nothing type of package. If channels previously available to analog subs are now gone, with no adjustment in the price paid by the sub, then the cable company should be called on it. If the cable company wants to start offering a-la-carte, then it's a different story, but they don't, and that's why the FCC has initiated the inquiry.

I'm not a big fan of Comcast, or the FCC, but in this case, the FCC seems to have the "just" position.
On the face of it, it seems just, but, IMHO, it isn't. See, Comcast could have said, one must get a Digital Box to access all Expd. Basic channels, end of story, but they didn't. Instead, they said, one may get a Digital Box or choose not to, telling them if they chose not to, they would lose a few channels. So, Comcast is being attacked for not giving a discount to people choosing to take less channels because they refused to get a Digital Box, when Comcast didn't even have to give them a choice at all.

On the face of it, it seems just, but, IMHO, it isn't. See, Comcast could have said, one must get a Digital Box to access all Expd. Basic channels, end of story, but they didn't. Instead, they said, one may get a Digital Box or choose not to, telling them if they chose not to, they would lose a few channels. So, Comcast is being attacked for not giving a discount to people choosing to take less channels because they refused to get a Digital Box, when Comcast didn't even have to give them a choice at all.

That's one way to look at it, but the reality is, to retain the channels that they were already getting for $X amount of dollars, they now have to pay $X + the box fee to get the same channels.

The FCC cares. That's the point.
My point was, the subscriber doesn't care what Comcast has to pay for each of those channels, they are not allowed to purchase them per channel, so the fact that Comcast has to pay for them whether they are digital or analog isn't a factor. In fact, by moving those channels to digital from analog, Comcast is actually saving money in the form of more usable bandwidth, but they don't pass those savings on the subscriber, they still charge the sub the same price for less channels.


Comcast can be called at 1-800-COMCAST. The subscriber can cancel their subscription, and be done with it.

Not even close. If the FCC wants cheaper entertainment and information, let them fund it with tax money. Otherwise, let the market determine what the price should be.

Come on, now you're just being obtuse. Fact is, nobody needs to have TV period, so those last two remarks are just ridiculous.

That's one way to look at it, but the reality is, to retain the channels that they were already getting for $X amount of dollars, they now have to pay $X + the box fee to get the same channels.The reality is that prices increase. Why is that even worthy of note? Comcast should be allowed to double the price, if they wish to. And price increases don't have to be fair: If they were, people paying for limited basic would generally be paying more.

The price is not the issue. This is nothing short of childish vindictiveness on the part of regulators who want to punish companies for advancing to digital resulting in the regulator's constituents crying about it.

Come on, now you're just being obtuse. Fact is, nobody needs to have TV period, so those last two remarks are just ridiculous.They're not ridiculous in the slightest, and you yourself stated why. Government should not be interfering in this. Let the cable companies move channels to digital as they wish to, period. If consumers don't like it, let consumers punish the cable companies by canceling their subscriptions.

They're not ridiculous in the slightest, and you yourself stated why. Government should not be interfering in this. Let the cable companies move channels to digital as they wish to, period. If consumers don't like it, let consumers punish the cable companies by canceling their subscriptions.

Cancelling may not be that easy if you need to replace it. Say you go with Comcast because it has the cheapest rates because it's bundled (phone + internet + TV), and they're your ONLY bundle option. Breaking up the bundle would cost you more money per month to have other providers. So people feel trapped in with Comcast. The government, paid for by our taxes, should be looking out for the consumers.

The government, paid for by our taxes, should be looking out for investors.

The problem is that Comcast might be the only cable outlet to receive premium TV for some. You can't just drop Comcast and go to another competitor in most cases. Satellite TV? Some buildings don't allow it or your unit doesn't face the right direction. That's why the government has to step in. It's the same thing with POTS phones before VOIP and cell phones came around. Of course when your power is out no VOIP and your cell will eventually die. You don't need cable nor phone but if you get it, they're the only show in town.

Wierd, I had to redo my favorite channels last night.

The problem is that Comcast might be the only cable outlet to receive premium TV for some. You can't just drop Comcast and go to another competitor in most cases. Satellite TV? Some buildings don't allow it or your unit doesn't face the right direction. That's why the government has to step in. It's the same thing with POTS phones before VOIP and cell phones came around. Of course when your power is out no VOIP and your cell will eventually die. You don't need cable nor phone but if you get it, they're the only show in town.

premium TV is just that. "premium." it's a luxury, not an entitlement. not a necessity. as much as that sucks, it's the truth.

OK All I can say about Frank Eliason from Comcast is a man of his word. When him and I spoked about my problems with Comcast and there service he told me he will look into it and get it Fixed. That was back on Jan 07 2008. Comcast has been on my street a lot. They been in and out of my house. They see what going on and think they might know what the problem might be. They would not tell me what they think it is. So I hope they fix it. If they get it fixed then all I need is MORE HD Channles.
Daniel

OK All I can say about Frank Eliason from Comcast is a man of his word. When him and I spoked about my problems with Comcast and there service he told me he will look into it and get it Fixed. That was back on Jan 07 2008. Comcast has been on my street a lot. They been in and out of my house. They see what going on and think they might know what the problem might be. They would not tell me what they think it is. So I hope they fix it. If they get it fixed then all I need is MORE HD Channles.
Daniel

"Famous Frank" is mentioned in this Wired article about Brian Roberts and Comcast.

The Dark Lord of Broadband Tries to Fix Comcast's Image
http://www.wired.com/techbiz/people/magazine/17-02/mf_brianroberts?currentPage=1

The problem is that Comcast might be the only cable outlet to receive premium TV for some. You can't just drop Comcast and go to another competitor in most cases. Satellite TV? Some buildings don't allow it or your unit doesn't face the right direction. That's why the government has to step in. It's the same thing with POTS phones before VOIP and cell phones came around. Of course when your power is out no VOIP and your cell will eventually die. You don't need cable nor phone but if you get it, they're the only show in town.
Rental and Condo buildings can't prohibit satellite dishes (or antennae), (except for a few exceptions, ie, historic landmark); the gov't (FCC) stepped in on that one.;) However, indeed one's balcony or patio may be facing the wrong way or one may not even have one.

That's one way to look at it, but the reality is, to retain the channels that they were already getting for $X amount of dollars, they now have to pay $X + the box fee to get the same channels.

The reality is that prices increase. Why is that even worthy of note? Comcast should be allowed to double the price, if they wish to. And price increases don't have to be fair: If they were, people paying for limited basic would generally be paying more.

The price is not the issue. This is nothing short of childish vindictiveness on the part of regulators who want to punish companies for advancing to digital resulting in the regulator's constituents crying about it.
Agreed, there is no right to 'retain the same channels for the same price'. People with cable know prices increase for the same services. Here, Comcast raises the rates typically 5.5-6.5% (some services more), every 10-12 mos., so, what's the difference.

Here, since 1 Nov., Standard was discontinued for new customers. Digital Starter (Standard plus a few channels with an SD Box) has become the same price as grandfathered Standard service. So, now Comcast is simply playing the shell game, and it appears to be free; of course, it isn't, but it doesn't have to be.

As of 10 Feb., Digital Starter will include a choice of SD Box or DTA and two more DTAs. Extra DTAs will be $2. No doubt Standard will last ~2-3 mos. more after that. Again, no extra fees, they have already figured it into the cost of Digital Starter, as is there right to do.

AFAIK, the complaint was not having to pay a box fee, which they techincally don't, since Comcast has been raising the fees more than usual to cover the anticipated box costs, but how does one prove that? And how is it relevant; where is the prohibition against that? There is no legal right to Analog boxless cable. Some areas have had boxes for Analog Expd. Basic for many years.

AFAIK, the complaint was getting less channels, but not getting a price reduction. Again, those people just should have taken the box. People want to penalize Comcast giving the option of trading channels for not having a box rather than keeping all of the channels and getting a box.

premium TV is just that. "premium." it's a luxury, not an entitlement. not a necessity. as much as that sucks, it's the truth.

Same argument with the phone but we have government regulation for both.

Rental and Condo buildings can't prohibit satellite dishes (or antennae), (except for a few exceptions, ie, historic landmark); the gov't (FCC) stepped in on that one.;) However, indeed one's balcony or patio may be facing the wrong way or one may not even have one.

Just out of curiousity because I've never lived in a building without a balcony, how do they get satellite? I imagine the association has to spring for a large satellite and then split the fees into the maintenance costs. Are you saying that an association can't vote to not get satellite and go with cable? Wouldn't the building resident then be stuck with cable even the association legally denied it?

Just out of curiousity because I've never lived in a building without a balcony, how do they get satellite?

They don't.:D Unless one opens the window to watch TV or some have replaced the glass with acrylic. There are angle refraction issues, so, acrylic doesn't always work.

I imagine the association has to spring for a large satellite and then split the fees into the maintenance costs. Are you saying that an association can't vote to not get satellite and go with cable? Wouldn't the building resident then be stuck with cable even the association legally denied it?

The FCC voided the exclusive building contracts for satellite and cable. I don't know the details, maybe it was just that building could terminate, but didn't have to, I don't know. If they can keep the contracts, maybe individuals can opt out and get a rent/condo fee discount, again, I don't know.

I also, remember another FCC ruling allowing all cable/satellite/fiber cos. access to buildings. I would assume that means a building doesn't have a choice, otherwise, I don't see how that differs from the above non-exclusivity, but again, I don't know.

Surprisingly, I didn't read any discussion of these two FCC rulings on AVS Forum.

That's why the government has to step in. It's the same thing with POTS phones before VOIP and cell phones came around. Television -- specifically anything beyond local broadcast channels -- is not a necessity like POTS phones before VOIP and cell phones came around. That's why the government must not step in. They would be interfering in the market where their interference would actually be counter-productive to market balance. If customers don't like the offerings available to them, they can readily do without, since we're not talking about the local broadcast channels.

Just to clarify the condo antenna rule: A condo owner cannot compel the association to get a dish. Rather, the association is simply barred from preventing owners from setting up antennas and satellite dishes within their designated "limited common" space. Any limitations on the ability to receive service from designated "limited common" space is handled in the same way as such limitations are handled when a private homeowner is located where none of their space can receive service (tall trees, etc.) Note that the law does allow reasonable requirements, such as using banding to secure antennas, instead of affixing them by violating the integrity of siding, masonry, or framing.

Same argument with the phone but we have government regulation for both.

phones are necessities for emergencies. HBO is not.

Cable wasn't built using gov't money and was giving a monopoly by the federal gov't (franchise agreements may have).

It's important to remember that the cable companies wouldn't exist if the government didn't give them the ability to build on and use land that they don't own (and would otherwise have no right to build on). The government could be said to regulate the industry in return for granting the land use. The same holds for phone lines, of course. You can't make a "free market" argument when it's not a free market.

Arguing that local or state governments should have regulatory power instead of the federal government is different from arguing that "the government" shouldn't have regulatory power.