My TiVo now has advertising on the deletion confirmation page. Advertising is going to be standard in many places that it wasn't before.

Not sure if this point was already made.... but look at it this way... You can now fast forward through all the commercials. I'd MUCH rather see a few ads on the bottom than 3-5 minutes of those :)

Absolutely, but I think the point is that folks need to understand that advertising substantially pays for television. Avoiding it, while appropriate and admirable, will drive producers and broadcasters to find some unavoidable or less avoidable way to present it to you. The alternative is less resources spent on programming, which will lead to cheaper, less attractive offerings.

I set up a series recording recently and when I checked 'My Recordings' is showed only 34' for an hour show. So, I went in the guide and then set to record the next repeat, but, when I checked 'My Scheduled..." the show was shown twice. But, I noticed in the morning that the 'record' LED was on (was set to record at 1 AM), but, at lunch it was off, then on later in the day. I then checked 'My Recordings' and I had many 1 minute recordings of the show, a few 2 and 3 minutes, and some 200+ minute recordings. I started deleting them, the first one (in 'date' list mode) stopped the current recording. I then started deleting others, I did stop and scroll down to count over 30 recordings!!
After deleting them things seemed ok, so, has anyone had this happen? This is the second time, as I had another series recording, and there was a 'marathon' on morning, and I was doing other things and noticed that the box 6412pIII just shutdown, and after a bit restarted. That resulted in just a few 1 minute recordings and a 500+ and 800+ minute recordings.
Others have this problem. I later set things up again to record a repeat as I had macroblocking (mosaics as Comcast calls them) on the first airing, and again noticed that I had a repeat of the same show in My schedule. So I went to the top one in the listing and turned off the recording, and things recorded ok--the one in the list.

Any ideas? Other failures? The first occurrence, I read here about super long recordings taking up space, and caught it, but, the second with dozens of short recordings was weird (had the 'There was a problem when recording...may not have recorded the show' dialog on all).

Have you checked your signal levels? It sounds to me that the box is losing the signal, then regains it and tries to record, loses it again, etc. The macroblocking seems to support that, as well. As for the marathon recordings, I don't really have a thought....unless a bouncing signal lock just eventually freaks it out and it loses its timing or something. Anyway, that is what I would look into if I were you....

Good luck,
Randy

I checked my scheduled recordings last night and found Heroes scheduled not to record this Monday. I thought maybe there was some sort of conflict but when I switched it to record it set it without any conflict warning. Any idea what might have happened?

Thanks.

I checked my scheduled recordings last night and found Heroes scheduled not to record this Monday. I thought maybe there was some sort of conflict but when I switched it to record it set it without any conflict warning. Any idea what might have happened?

Thanks.

When that happens to us it is always that the Guide indicates that the episode is a rerun. I checked our TW guide and in this case, right now, it indicates the show is New, so for TW subscribers it should be recorded if they have the series scheduled.

Here's a weird one. Just a few minutes ago, I was checking my upcoming recordings and noticed that on 2/04 there is a Monk marathon scheduled. Since iGuide can't seem to recognize a new Monk from an old one, my 6412 was scheduled to record all of them. So I went in and started to manually set them all to "not record." The box was very slow to respond, and after I set the fourth or fifth one, all the Monk listings in the upcoming recordings (both the ones that I set to not record and the ones I hadn't got to yet) changed to "To Be Announced." And, of course, for TBAs, the record option isn't available, so I couldn't change anything further.

So the iGuide actually LOST data while I was watching. Not on all the channels, but certainly on USA and TNT-HD for 2/04. Other networks (I didn't check them all) were populated. Has anyone else seen this or know what's going on?

Here's a weird one. Just a few minutes ago, I was checking my upcoming recordings and noticed that on 2/04 there is a Monk marathon scheduled. Since iGuide can't seem to recognize a new Monk from an old one, my 6412 was scheduled to record all of them. So I went in and started to manually set them all to "not record." The box was very slow to respond, and after I set the fourth or fifth one, all the Monk listings in the upcoming recordings (both the ones that I set to not record and the ones I hadn't got to yet) changed to "To Be Announced." And, of course, for TBAs, the record option isn't available, so I couldn't change anything further.

So the iGuide actually LOST data while I was watching. Not on all the channels, but certainly on USA and TNT-HD for 2/04. Other networks (I didn't check them all) were populated. Has anyone else seen this or know what's going on?

I've not see the 'revert to TBA', but, I was selectively 'not record'ing ceritain shows of a marathon, and there was another show in the mix, and the series recordings shows--the one that was not to be recorded--would shift around each time I'd look at the 'My Scheduled Recordings'. I think I just let them record and delted the one's I wouldn't watch.

It does seem that the stupid iGuide has lots of trouble differentiation between new and repeat, and re-airings (on other channels). (Which I think is as much what the guide has noted than the software.) I have a series recording on SciFi for new BSG episodes, but, when I tried to set one up for UniversalHD (re-airings) it never seems to stick. Also wish it would keep track of episodes you've watched, so it doesn't keep recording all the repeats.

. . .

It does seem that the stupid iGuide has lots of trouble differentiation between new and repeat, and re-airings (on other channels). (Which I think is as much what the guide has noted than the software.) I have a series recording on SciFi for new BSG episodes, but, when I tried to set one up for UniversalHD (re-airings) it never seems to stick. Also wish it would keep track of episodes you've watched, so it doesn't keep recording all the repeats.

When I've tried to set the DVR to record all shows on a channel that only does reruns of a series it worked fine. But then when I tried to create another series for a different channel that runs the new episodes, I found that it couldn't create two different schedules for the separate channels. I didn't want to tell it to record all reruns,m because the reruns for this show appear on multiple channels and could consume the DVR. I've deleted the schedule for reruns and set it to just record new shows now.

It would be pretty complex to handle different scheduled recording options for the same show, including creating an interface that would allow us to manage each of the schedules independently.

When I've tried to set the DVR to record all shows on a channel that only does reruns of a series it worked fine. But then when I tried to create another series for a different channel that runs the new episodes, I found that it couldn't create two different schedules for the separate channels. I didn't want to tell it to record all reruns,m because the reruns for this show appear on multiple channels and could consume the DVR. I've deleted the schedule for reruns and set it to just record new shows now.

It would be pretty complex to handle different scheduled recording options for the same show, including creating an interface that would allow us to manage each of the schedules independently.
My TiVo units handle these scenarios just fine. TiVo Season Passes are channel-specific, while TiVo auto-record Wish Lists are not.

Perhaps the TiVo software ruunning on the Motorola boxes will be a workable solution.

So the iGuide actually LOST data while I was watching. Not on all the channels, but certainly on USA and TNT-HD for 2/04. Other networks (I didn't check them all) were populated. Has anyone else seen this or know what's going on?I've never really put my finger on this, but yes it must happen. The reason why I say that is that I often see TBA programs already set up to record. These are programs that at one point the box realized were part of my serial recordings, so marked them with the red dot. Then later, clearly, they "lost" their program data, but "remembered" that they were supposed to be recorded.

My suspicion is that this is the fault of the program data downloads: That they're not being administered by the cable head-end properly -- an "update" comes down the wire which contains LESS information than a previous download, and so replaces real program data with TBA.

I don't know how we get someone to believe this, and then fix it.

TBA's showing up on the second week seems to becoming more common. I've been having that issue for over a year. I think it's a memory limit and corruption issue. It may start to fill in, but then I'll do something that causes it to freeze or be slow, and they'll start disappearing.

From what I can see, when loading the full 2-week data, the guide typically fills in from the last date up to today. That way, as memory fills, it starts dropping descriptions for the programs furthest out (unless they are repeats of a program closer in.) For some reason, it's running ot of memory sooner and starting to drop program titles, too. The program length, type (color code), New/repeat, HD, and some other info remains. That information is from the core database of the guide data. I think descriptions and titles are two separate databases.
Basically, I think the core data just contains a code for the program and episode, along with the time and flags (type, new/repeat, etc..) That code in turn links to the program name and description databases.
My box (6412/P2) only has 128M of RAM. I don't know if others have more. As more and more channels are being added, it's putting a squeeze on things. I also think the new firmware/software is using more memory.

I think the point is that folks need to understand that advertising substantially pays for television.

It doesn't pay for my cable bill, though, which makes it utterly despicable for them to insert ads into the boxes that I'm paying a rental fee for, and in the process make it less usable. Four channels at a time in the guide? That's ridiculous. And single height is NOT a valid alternative, considering how many show titles are utterly incomprehensible in that mode.

TBA's showing up on the second week seems to becoming more common. I've been having that issue for over a year.

I first started to have this "second week is missing data" issue back when they "upgraded" the firmware last year, along with other problems like the corner box not scaling (which fortunately had an easy fix someone on here mentioned) and fast forward and reverse not working properly on the first (>> or <<) speed and just freezing up instead - but only on some channels, not all of them. Oddly enough, >>> and <<< and faster and the slow mo work fine on the same channels, even the same exact recordings.

I don't know what the hell they thought they were fixing, but instead they just made my box work a lot worse.

It doesn't pay for my cable bill, though, which makes it utterly despicable for them to insert ads into the boxes that I'm paying a rental fee for, and in the process make it less usable.No not at all. It's opportunistic, at worst. Most people, if they found a way to make more money, by making a small change to how they do their work, would absolutely do it. Companies are no different.

Most people who don't visit the AVS Forum aren't sensitive to advertising in the way you are. Unfortunately, part of being in a small minority is that you end up suffering for your unique perspective. It's no different than people who like opera, and are thereby generally left unsatisfied by programming choices on television. They suffer for their unique perspective.

Four channels at a time in the guide? That's ridiculous.I have no problem with it. It provides me all the information I need, with only a small number of clicks to find exactly the right channel. I respect your frustration, but from my perspective, and evidently from the perspective of the vast majority of folks who don't visit the AVS Forum, it's not a big deal.

Anyone have this problem, I have lost My DVR, I can press the button on the remote and go to my list of current recording, but the menu that normally comes up where you can access your scheduled recordings, recordings priority, etc does not show up at all, also when I press the Menu -> Menu there used to be a DVR selection, I think it's been replaced with a Music selection, either that or it's just missing altogether.

I have a friend that this happened to last week, last night it happened to my box, latest firmware and software according to the wiki page. Anybody heard of this bug.

I had this happen to me several weeks ago, the only recourse is to pull the plug and let it reset. I noticed after this that the unit does not power off in the same way as before, it basically has the video stay on, and if you want to get into the user menu to set resolutions etc, there is a new button to press on the remote. I love it when they don't tell us about these things.

In Atlanta today, there were no ads at the bottom of the schedule, resulting in 6 lines of programming.

I sure hope this is permanent.

I have no problem with it. It provides me all the information I need, with only a small number of clicks to find exactly the right channel. I respect your frustration, but from my perspective, and evidently from the perspective of the vast majority of folks who don't visit the AVS Forum, it's not a big deal.

I have a problem with it (ads in the channel listing). Pretty egotistical how you can purport to speak for the "vast majority".

I asked if I could bring my cable box to my church so we can watch the Super Bowl in Hi def in this thread. The answer was what I expected. Can't hurt to try, if they are in my same head end it will work, if not then no can workie.

Well I brought my 6412 III to test it last night. The church has basic digital cable. The pastors office has a TV circa 1927 with a Motorola cable box (kinda old) hooked up to it with coax. I replaced my box with his and it worked fine. I could even watch the hi def channels (sampled down of course)

So I take the box into the social hall where the Super Bowl Party will take place. The cable in there feeds directly into a VCR (no cable box) and into a projector (capable of Hi- Def). Everything is working fine with the VCR doing the tuning. I plug the cable into my 6412 and hook the box to the projector with HDMI-DVI Cable (projector Does HDCP btw). I get the "one moment, acquiring channel data" or something like that and it doesn't go any further. I also tried the standard RCA, but same results.Why would it work in one part of the church and not another? Any help would be appreciated.

BTW, I took my cable box home and it still works fine.

usually that's a sign of poor signal level at that location.

jtm

usually that's a sign of poor signal level at that location.

jtm

Hmm, would a radio shack signal booster help? I do have one of those somewhere from my signal splicing days ;)

So I take the box into the social hall where the Super Bowl Party will take place. The cable in there feeds directly into a VCR (no cable box) and into a projector (capable of Hi- Def). Everything is working fine with the VCR doing the tuning. I plug the cable into my 6412 and hook the box to the projector with HDMI-DVI Cable (projector Does HDCP btw). I get the "one moment, acquiring channel data" or something like that and it doesn't go any further. I also tried the standard RCA, but same results.Why would it work in one part of the church and not another? Any help would be appreciated.
The box needs two-way communications. If the signal was weak, or there was an amp or something blocking the return signal, it may not initialize.

e Super Bowl Party will take place. The cable in there feeds directly into a VCR (no cable box) and into a projector (capable of Hi- Def). Everything is working fine with the VCR doing the tuning. .

Just to be clear, you DID disconnect the VCR, so that is NOT part of the linkage, correct? If not, that is your problem.

Hmm, would a radio shack signal booster help? I do have one of those somewhere from my signal splicing days ;)
It would have to be a bi-directional booster. The box has to be able to talk back to the head-end. You can check the signal levels on the maintenance screen.

I had this happen to me several weeks ago, the only recourse is to pull the plug and let it reset. I noticed after this that the unit does not power off in the same way as before, it basically has the video stay on, and if you want to get into the user menu to set resolutions etc, there is a new button to press on the remote. I love it when they don't tell us about these things.


Unplugging the unit, had no affect, the DVR menu is still missing. My friend has been in contact with Comcast and it now appears it's started happening to several of the DVRs, he reloaded the software, wiped(reformatted) the drive, basically reloaded the whole box and he still has the problem, I'm hoping they can figure it out, I really don't won't to lose my current recordings. Comcast even cancelled his service visit, evidently it's happening and they haven't been able to determine the cause.

The Main Menu now has a Digital Music category, that I'm almost certain wasn't there before, the Music selection is also appeaing in the Guide, when you press Guide twice on the remote, it wasn't there before either, it's almost like the DVR selection has been replaced by the Digital Music selection. Dunno, but it's worrisome, because I'm afraid I'm gonna end up losing my saved shows.

S/W Ver: 74.53 - 3321
Firmware: 16.20

Anyone have a Harmony 880 and know how to put in the command so you can swap tuners. I can't figure it out and I haven't been able to find it in this thread or the 880 thread.
Thanks.

Anyone have a Harmony 880 and know how to put in the command so you can swap tuners. I can't figure it out and I haven't been able to find it in this thread or the 880 thread.
Thanks.

On mine it shows up as "PIP Swap", probably because the Swap button on the Comcast remote is located at the bottom with the other Picture in Picture buttons.

I get the "one moment, acquiring channel data" or something like that and it doesn't go any further.How long did you wait?! :confused:

I have a problem with it (ads in the channel listing). Pretty egotistical how you can purport to speak for the "vast majority".No, not at all. I have eyes, ears and a brain. I can process inputs that come from external sources as well as internal sources. I can make rational conclusions based on these inputs.

I think you're in the minority, with regard to the general population. You're welcome to disagree. (Semi-sarcastic warning, but semi-serious, because I really don't know you...) Do you have some religious aversion to disagreeing agreeably? Are you compelled by your beliefs to express your disagreement with a personal attack, like calling someone "egotistical"? I could put some derrogatory labels on you, in repsonse to your comments, if it would make you feel more at-home. Just let me know; I'll do my best to accommodate that if you wish.

Just reading the AVS Forums make you a member of a minority perspective in the television realm, so don't be so surprised. One good indicator of this is how often are you disappointed with the offerings available? The more your disappointed, the less you are representative of the general public, since mass-market service providers aim their offerings at the general public, rather than us geeks who read AVS Forums.

No, not at all. I have eyes, ears and a brain. I can process inputs that come from external sources as well as internal sources. I can make rational conclusions based on these inputs. ... The more your disappointed, the less you are representative of the general public, since mass-market service providers aim their offerings at the general public, rather than us geeks who read AVS Forums.
Just because the service providers aim their offerings at the general public does not mean that the general public (GP) is happy or satisfied with the results. Sometimes the GP folks feel like they have no other alternative, or they don't bother to complain or maybe don't know how to voice their opinions (complaints) to the provider. Even if they do, we likely will not have access to the providers' data relating feedback and acceptance levels of their offerings.

I don't think we have enough data to generalize either way--that the GP is happy or unhappy with the imposing ads in their guide data. If I were to GUESS, I would guess that most would be unhappy, but I have little or no basis for that opinion except the small sample size of my circle of family, friends and co-workers with whom I have discussed this issue.

Happy? Perhaps not. The general public generally wants everything for nothing. If there is a price they have to pay, regardless of how it compares to the value they perceive, they (as a group) won't be happy.

Satisfied? Yes. The general public aren't idiots. If they're "unsatisfied" with an offering which is not an essential like food or shelter, then they'll forego it.

I agree with you, though, that we don't have enough data to generalize either way, but I'm very confident that most people are substantially more satisfied than the typical person who complains about things on AVS Forums.

Just to be clear, you DID disconnect the VCR, so that is NOT part of the linkage, correct? If not, that is your problem.

Yes, VCR was out of the loop.


How long did you wait?!

5 Minutes or so. Was that not long enough? At the other location (in the same church) I only had to wait about 2 seconds, so I didn't think that was the problem.

If I try it again and go into the maintenance menu, what reception level am I looking for to get a good feed? Or to get it to work at all.

Why would it work in one part of the church and not another?Look for an amplifier/splitter between the cable input to the building and the social hall. It is probably a "one-way" amplifier and will have to be removed before the DVR will work. You can get a lesbian F-connector (http://www.radioshack.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2103648&cp=2032058.2032231.2032280&pg=8&parentPage=family) to temporarily put in place of the amplifier and hope the signal strength is OK.

I have recently encountered an audio issue on certain recordings. I will be watching a recorded show and I will lose audio for a few seconds. However, if I rewind the show 15-30 seconds and play the same scene over again, there will be audio. I have not noticed this problem while watching live/non-recorded shows. Anyone know what the problem can be?

Hi there, forum noob here. I read from about page 290 on, and didn't see this mentioned, so I'm sorry if it's been answered before. :o

I've had a problem with a 6412 PIII, and 3412 and a 3416, where I get a screen full of static when I turn the TV on (DVR is always on). I have the box connected to the TV with a HDMI(box)/DVI(TV) cable. I have to unplug the HDMI end from the port on the cable box, and the picture is fine until I shut off the TV and turn it on again. The problem started a few months ago, after working fine for months. Is this one of the lovely features of the 16.20 firmware upgrade or is this a problem that is unique to me?

I'd really rather not switch to component cables, because the picture was noticeably inferior with the component hookup during the short time I was waiting for my HDMI cable after I subscribed to Comcast.

Thanks for any help, and sorry again if this has been asked and answered.

Anyone have a Harmony 880 and know how to put in the command so you can swap tuners. I can't figure it out and I haven't been able to find it in this thread or the 880 thread.
Thanks.
I have an 880, and to swap tuners, I always go into the device menu for the PVR and select "PIP Swap", and that does it. I'm sure you can add that to the LCD as one of your options, but I've been lazy about plugging it into my PC and updating it.

Yep, 'PIP Swap' is the correct command. I have a 720 and had the same trouble figuring out which command to use.

Is anyone aware of any settings that need to be made on the 6412 PIII to make the digital coax audio port work correctly? Just setting up my new Denon surround processor and have no problem with DVD audio via digital coax, but am getting no sound from the comcast box. (Please redirect me if this has been addressed before, but I wasn't able to find anything easily when I looked)

Is anyone aware of any settings that need to be made on the 6412 PIII to make the digital coax audio port work correctly? Just setting up my new Denon surround processor and have no problem with DVD audio via digital coax, but am getting no sound from the comcast box.

I have the Moto 3412 box from Comcast, which is similar to the 6412.III, and have no problems with digital audio out via coax to my Integra receiver. I do remember reading about some possible problems depending on the HDMI output setting on the STB.

Power off the cable box and press MENU on the remote to get to the configuration menu. Try changing the HDMI/DVI mode to "DVI" and see if that makes any difference. See the "How to use a Motorola DVR (http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR/Setup#Additional_HDMI_Settings)" guide for more details.

You should also check the input settings on your receiver. The digital audio inputs usually can be configured to accept different formats, such as "Bitstream", "PCM," or "Auto." It's possible that could be set to something that conflicts with the STB. Also, if the digital inputs on your receiver can be assigned to different video inputs, make sure you have it matched up to the same input as the STB and have everything plugged in the right place.

I've had a problem with a 6412 PIII, and 3412 and a 3416, where I get a screen full of static when I turn the TV on (DVR is always on). I have the box connected to the TV with a HDMI(box)/DVI(TV) cable. I have to unplug the HDMI end from the port on the cable box, and the picture is fine until I shut off the TV and turn it on again. The problem started a few months ago, after working fine for months. Is this one of the lovely features of the 16.20 firmware upgrade or is this a problem that is unique to me?

Sounds like it could be an issue with your TV syncing to the HDMI resolution. You might want to try posting in the forums specific to your TV and see if anyone else has had a similar problem. I know there were some compatibility issues with my HP plasma display and HDMI audio from the 6412 that required a firmware update to resolve.

Only if your cable provider has enabled the passthru. Mine, for example (Comcast in Somerville, MA), has not.

Am getting a Pioneer PDP5070 HD tomorrow. In their tread it says to set the STB's to let the "native" signal from the stations pass thru the box so the TV will upconvert the signals. If you turn off the box than how do you do a recording on the Mot 6412 III HD recorder?

Am getting a Pioneer PDP5070 HD tomorrow. In their tread it says to set the STB's to let the "native" signal from the stations pass thru the box so the TV will upconvert the signals. If you turn off the box than how do you do a recording on the Mot 6412 III HD recorder?

Unfortunately, there's no native passthrough on the 6412. Check the Setup section of the wikibook (http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR) article.

I am curious as to whether moto box users run their coax cables from the wall through a surge protector and then to the box. Does passing through the surge protector degrade the PQ?

I am curious as to whether moto box users run their coax cables from the wall through a surge protector and then to the box. Does passing through the surge protector degrade the PQ?

Make sure the surge protector also has Power Conditioning abilities.

This will keep the Voltage steady.

The Moto STB do not like any change in the Voltage.

Most plain jane power strips and surge protectors will cause the voltage to vary when it is absorbing power spikes. This can cause all sorts of problems with the STB.

as far as the COAX, the cable company is required to have it grounded at the location of your power block, where the main ground cable is.

it will not effect the PQ.

Anyone have any idea when Comcast will switch to the new DCH Moto boxes?

Anyone have any idea when Comcast will switch to the new DCH Moto boxes?

Comcast has already placed a large order for the DCH series STB, I would say later this year.

Is there any way to control two boxes with separate remote controls. I plan on having two 6412's in one room, is there any way to change the remote codes on the receiver and remotes to prevent the remote from controlling both boxes? I know my Directv and Dish network receivers have this capability, just wondering if there is any way to do this with the Motorola boxes.

I doubt Comcast will "switch" to the DCH-series boxes, but rather will simply convert to them over time. My understanding is that the two series can continue to work in concert with each other.

There is currently no way to change the remote codes for these boxes. When I had two in the same room, I put one in a closed (but well-ventilated) cabinet, and operated it via an IR blaster from my TiVo.

I asked Comcast about the new Moto DCH boxes and here is their reply:

"Thank you for contacting Comcast Cable.

We do know about the new DVR's and we are working on
getting them processed. Motorola is running months behind on all
orders. We have problems getting the last new one now.

I'm sorry I can't give you any date.


Thank you for choosing Comcast.

Sincerely,

Phyllis
Comcast Customer Care Specialist"

My box died or something, when I turn it on it has a 0 in the led display and no ouput to the TV, I can get to the setup screens, but there is no output from the box other than that, is it dead?

I can change channels, punch in the numbers on the remote and the led display shows them, but then it just reverts back to 0 on the front led display on the box. I tried the authorization and download and it does it, after it finishes the download it turns off, and then when I turn it back on, it just goes to 0 on the display.

My box died or something, when I turn it on it has a 0 in the led display and no ouput to the TV, I can get to the setup screens, but there is no output from the box other than that, is it dead?

I can change channels, punch in the numbers on the remote and the led display shows them, but then it just reverts back to 0 on the front led display on the box. I tried the authorization and download and it does it, after it finishes the download it turns off, and then when I turn it back on, it just goes to 0 on the display.
What I would do is turn the bad box in for a good box and save yourself some gray hairs. It's not your job to fix or trouble shoot their equipment, your job is to enjoy watching the programing that you pay for. Trust me, save yourself some aggravation ;)

Laters,
Mikef5

What I would do is turn the bad box in for a good box and save yourself some gray hairs. It's not your job to fix or trouble shoot their equipment, your job is to enjoy watching the programing that you pay for. Trust me, save yourself some aggravation ;)

Laters,
Mikef5

I will, it's the weekend, and I thought there might be a magic fix, of course I could call Comcast, but I actually figured I'd get more info on this forum, also the box that is whacked out has a lot of recordings on it, some I would have liked to get off of it if at all possible.

I will, it's the weekend, and I thought there might be a magic fix, of course I could call Comcast, but I actually figured I'd get more info on this forum, also the box that is whacked out has a lot of recordings on it, some I would have liked to get off of it if at all possible.
How do you have your box hooked up to your Tv ?? If it's component try some other way of connecting it , like composite or S-video and see if the box has an output at all. Also, try and switch tuners, there's a swap button on the bottom left of the controller, might just be one of the tuners is bad. Just some things to check out before dumping the box, hope this helps.

Laters,
Mikef5

How do you have your box hooked up to your Tv ?? If it's component try some other way of connecting it , like composite or S-video and see if the box has an output at all. Also, try and switch tuners, there's a swap button on the bottom left of the controller, might just be one of the tuners is bad. Just some things to check out before dumping the box, hope this helps.

Laters,
Mikef5

I've tried component and composite, neither one works, the setup menus(the ones that are accessible by turning off the box and pushing Ok/Select or Menu) will display. Nothing changed when I tried the swap tuners.

I've tried component and composite, neither one works, the setup menus(the ones that are accessible by turning off the box and pushing Ok/Select or Menu) will display. Nothing changed when I tried the swap tuners.
In the diagnostic menu what does d06, current channel status, say ?? You may want to check the inband status also, d04.

Laters,
Mikef5

In the diagnostic menu what does d06, current channel status, say ?? You may want to check the inband status also, d04.

Laters,
Mikef5

Everything in both d04 and d06 are N/A ...

Everything in both d04 and d06 are N/A ...
Does you tv have a tuner ?? If so directly hook the cable to the tuner, bypassing the box and see if you are getting a signal at all. In the d06 you should have seen under status, acquired and locked.

Laters,
Mikef5

Does you tv have a tuner ?? If so directly hook the cable to the tuner, bypassing the box and see if you are getting a signal at all. In the d06 you should have seen under status, acquired and locked.

Laters,
Mikef5

Nope, both tuners are showing N/A I just hooked up another cable to it, from a known working tuner that I have hooked up to my PC, it will actually do the reauthorization on the box, but when it finishes and turns itself off, then it just goes to 0 on the display and that is it, should I try the reauthorization again?

Nope, both tuners are showing N/A I just hooked up another cable to it, from a known working tuner that I have hooked up to my PC, it will actually do the reauthorization on the box, but when it finishes and turns itself off, then it just goes to 0 on the display and that is it, should I try the reauthorization again?
So you have another motorola box hooked to your PC and that's working ?? If so, the box on your tv is bad. It's not acquiring a signal so there's nothing to display. I was hoping your tv had a tuner to prove that a signal was available but if the box on your PC is working then the only other thing that could be the problem is the tv box it's self. I don't think doing a factory reset will help, and you may lose what's on your hard drive. One other thing to check. Check the connection on the box where the cable attaches, rf input, and see if it's lose or not. I've actually gotten a box where the connection on the box wasn't tightened up ( it was very loose ) and was causing problems. If that isn't it we're hosed :(

Laters,
Mikef5

So you have another motorola box hooked to your PC and that's working ?? If so, the box on your tv is bad. It's not acquiring a signal so there's nothing to display. I was hoping your tv had a tuner to prove that a signal was available but if the box on your PC is working then the only other thing that could be the problem is the tv box it's self. I don't think doing a factory reset will help, and you may lose what's on your hard drive. One other thing to check. Check the connection on the box where the cable attaches, rf input, and see if it's lose or not. I've actually gotten a box where the connection on the box wasn't tightened up ( it was very loose ) and was causing problems. If that isn't it we're hosed :(

Laters,
Mikef5

It wouldn't download the firmware and reinitialize if the cable was bad would it?

Edit: I said reinitialize, I guess it called authorize, I'm not familiar with the terms on this stuff, but it goes through all the motions, for a while last night it was going through a hunt Fr 1 hunt Fr 2 hunt Fr 3 , etc... then finally it went into the dl with the little leds on the left going around and round in clockwise circles for 10 or 15 minutes.

It wouldn't download the firmware and reinitialize if the cable was bad would it?
rebkell,
Another thing you might try. Take the box from the tv and hook it up to your PC and see if it works there. I don't think it's a cable problem but you need to eliminate that as a possible problem. If the box doesn't work on the PC, then the box is bad and we're S.O.L. and the box needs to be replaced. Also, check to see if the box on the PC works on your tv.

Laters,
Mikef5

It wouldn't download the firmware and reinitialize if the cable was bad would it?

Edit: I said reinitialize, I guess it called authorize, I'm not familiar with the terms on this stuff, but it goes through all the motions, for a while last night it was going through a hunt Fr 1 hunt Fr 2 hunt Fr 3 , etc... then finally it went into the dl with the little leds on the left going around and round in clockwise circles for 10 or 15 minutes.
Last night when it was going through the hunt sequence, did the box do this it's self?? If so it was downloading a firmware or software update and if it was interrupted during that time it has a corrupted firmware but should've been fixed when you did the reset. If you unplugged the box for 10-15 minutes and plugged it back in, it should've reloaded and new software or firmware updates.

Laters,
Mikef5

rebkell,
Another thing you might try. Take the box from the tv and hook it up to your PC and see if it works there. I don't think it's a cable problem but you need to eliminate that as a possible problem. If the box doesn't work on the PC, then the box is bad and we're S.O.L. and the box needs to be replaced. Also, check to see if the box on the PC works on your tv.

Laters,
Mikef5
If all this fails, you could do a "Factory Full Reset" which will download everything again and shouldn't harm anything on your HD. This is from the Wiki page and works, I've done it myself and I didn't loose anything on the HD. You may want to bookmark the Wiki page, it's got lots of good things on the Motorola boxes.

http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR/Resets

If that didn't work, we're back to being hosed...... ;)

Laters,
Mikef5

Last night when it was going through the hunt sequence, did the box do this it's self?? If so it was downloading a firmware or software update and if it was interrupted during that time it has a corrupted firmware but should've been fixed when you did the reset. If you unplugged the box for 10-15 minutes and plugged it back in, it should've reloaded and new software or firmware updates.

Laters,
Mikef5

The hunt stuff was after I tried to reauthorize the box, the On Demand quit responding, I unplugged the box and plugged it back up, then the DVR part quit working, the guide wasn't coming back, it was about an hour and half long, and the box never picked up the guide or even the time, I also lost the dual tuners, no pause or any dvr functions, that's when I decided to reauthorize the box, when I did that it went into the endless hunt loop. I moved it to another cable connection in the house and the same thing. I left it like that, I finally checked on it later and it had finally started downloading. When it finished, then when I turned it back on to check it out, it was stuck with the 0 on the led display on the front, I reauthorized the box another time with the same results.

Edit: I just saw your last post, that is what I've been doing a Full Factory reset, it always comes back to just the 0 on the front display and all the things we've been discussing.

The hunt stuff was after I tried to reauthorize the box, the On Demand quit responding, I unplugged the box and plugged it back up, then the DVR part quit working, the guide wasn't coming back, it was about an hour and half long, and the box never picked up the guide or even the time, I also lost the dual tuners, no pause or any dvr functions, that's when I decided to reauthorize the box, when I did that it went into the endless hunt loop. I moved it to another cable connection in the house and the same thing. I left it like that, I finally checked on it later and it had finally started downloading. When it finished, then when I turned it back on to check it out, it was stuck with the 0 on the led display on the front, I reauthorized the box another time with the same results.

Edit: I just saw your last post, that is what I've been doing a Full Factory reset, it always comes back to just the 0 on the front display and all the things we've been discussing.
The error code 0 means a failed fan, which means they have to replace the fan or the box. Wether or not this affects it's ability to work or not I don't know but I imagine that it would, do to over heating. Did you try and hook it up to your PC ??

Laters,
Mikef5

The error code 0 means a failed fan, which means they have to replace the fan or the box. Wether or not this affects it's ability to work or not I don't know but I imagine that it would, do to over heating. Did you try and hook it up to your PC ??

Laters,
Mikef5

I don't really have any way to hook it up to the PC, when I said PC earlier, I have a USB HDTV tuner on it, and I used the cable connection that was working just fine on it and I took the cable connection from it and put it on the fubared moto 6412. I'll just call the cable company and see if I can exchange the box, the recordings weren't that important.

I don't really have any way to hook it up to the PC, when I said PC earlier, I have a USB HDTV tuner on it, and I used the cable connection that was working just fine on it and I took the cable connection from it and put it on the fubared moto 6412. I'll just call the cable company and see if I can exchange the box, the recordings weren't that important.
I see what you are saying. Well, I guess the stuff on the Motorola box is gone. I have an ATI All in Wonder card that I have hooked up to my computer but it also has a S-video and composite connection box so I could hook up the Motorola box to it if I wanted to dumped stuff on the box to my computer. Nice feature but it doesn't do HD stuff. What HDTV tuner do you use ??

Laters,
Mikef5

I see what you are saying. Well, I guess the stuff on the Motorola box is gone. I have an ATI All in Wonder card that I have hooked up to my computer but it also has a S-video and composite connection box so I could hook up the Motorola box to it if I wanted to dumped stuff on the box to my computer. Nice feature but it doesn't do HD stuff. What HDTV tuner do you use ??

Laters,
Mikef5

I have the OnAir, it does have some composite inputs on it, but I tried this last night on another TV, and it had no output, I just tried it, no go, it will now only work with the off -> Menu, the Off->Ok/Select button doesn't even bring up the d01 -> d16(or however many there are) screen.

My STB is somehow on mute. How do I unmute it? The mute button on the remote operates the TV mute, not the STB. Thanks.

I think one of my children must have hit the wrong button on my Harmony remote. I went into device mode, selected the 6412 and pressed mute which unmuted the STB. That was easy.

But now I have a far more serious problem. Any recording I select, the box thinks that recording is at the end and displays the delete/don't delete dialog box. I've tried clicking on the rewind to beginning but that doesn't work. I tried unplugging the box for a few seconds, plugging back in and rebooting but that does not work. I am thinking that I may unplug for a longer period and try rebooting again. Any suggestions as to what is going on and how I can troubleshoot? Thanks.

My STB is somehow on mute. How do I unmute it? The mute button on the remote operates the TV mute, not the STB. Thanks.

If you search this site for mute and the model of STB box you have you should be able to find a reference to coding one of the keys on the remote to mute/unmute the STB. This is caused by the STB starting a recording from the off setting. I think they mute it so that if you are asleep it won't wake you up with the audio.

My STB is somehow on mute. How do I unmute it? The mute button on the remote operates the TV mute, not the STB. Thanks.

http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR/Bugs#Picture_but_no_sound_.28.22MUTE.22_superimposed_over_to p-center_of_picture_in_small_white_letters.29

Is there anyway to get the box to output 16:9 through S-Video. It doesn't appear so, but thought I'd ask anyway. Mine has hdmi, so it appears to be a phase III.

Thanks,

Phil

Is there a way to have the guide hide stations that you don't subscribe to? Similarly, is there a way to not show adult content when doing a program search? It's a little embarrassing when you demo the unit and find pages of Amature Housewives 1-50 when searching for Amazing Race.

I tried looking through the thread and searching but couldn't come up with anything. Apologies if this has been asked before and I missed it.

Is there a way to have the guide hide stations that you don't subscribe to? Similarly, is there a way to not show adult content when doing a program search? It's a little embarrassing when you demo the unit and find pages of Amature Housewives 1-50 when searching for Amazing Race.

I tried looking through the thread and searching but couldn't come up with anything. Apologies if this has been asked before and I missed it.

No. There is no way to modify the guide. However, you can create a list of favorites and then use that as your guide. It is a requires another click or two to do it but at least it won"t show any station you don't want.

You can lock out the adult stations but I don't know if that takes them off the guide. I doubt it. I think it just shows them locked.

I'm considering switching from the 6412 to the 3416 so I can use HDMI into my receiver. A while back I was reading lots of reports about audio bugs however. Has all that been worked out with the latest firmware or are there still issues? Thanks.

I'm considering switching from the 6412 to the 3416 so I can use HDMI into my receiver.The 6412P3 has HDMI.

Is there anyway to get the box to output 16:9 through S-Video. It doesn't appear so, but thought I'd ask anyway. Mine has hdmi, so it appears to be a phase III.
I have the 3412 which is very similar to the 6412.III. I have it set to output HDMI directly to my plasma HDTV, but I also have a S-Video out running to my receiver and to the TV's S-Video input. I use that for watching some SD channels when I need more options for changing the aspect ratio on the TV.

I've tried watching HD content via the S-Video, and it displays in the same 16:9 format as the HDMI feed, though obviously at the lower 480i resolution. I have the cable box setup configured to output all HD content at 720p, and to stretch all 480i content at 720p as well. So yes, the Moto box does output 16:9 through S-Video.

I'm considering switching from the 6412 to the 3416 so I can use HDMI into my receiver. A while back I was reading lots of reports about audio bugs however. Has all that been worked out with the latest firmware or are there still issues? Thanks.

It will depend on your cable company, and on what firmware they have implemented in your specific area. In my area in north Texas, and in many other areas, Time Warner still uses firmware 12.31. That firmware level does not work with audio systems via hdmi.

The problem is fixed in firmware 12.35 and 16.20, as described in http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR/Bugs#When_turning_the_box_on.2C_it_may_not_display_a_picture .2C_the_picture_may_be_solid_green.2C_a_blue_box_may_appear_ displaying_an_HDCP_error.2C_or_multiple_images_may_appear_on _HD_channels

Is there any way to control two boxes with separate remote controls. I plan on having two 6412's in one room, is there any way to change the remote codes on the receiver and remotes to prevent the remote from controlling both boxes? I know my Directv and Dish network receivers have this capability, just wondering if there is any way to do this with the Motorola boxes.
If you are not going to be watching both boxes at the same time, turn one box on and one box off. You can then control both boxes with one remote.

Is there a way to have the guide hide stations that you don't subscribe to? Similarly, is there a way to not show adult content when doing a program search? It's a little embarrassing when you demo the unit and find pages of Amature Housewives 1-50 when searching for Amazing Race.

I tried looking through the thread and searching but couldn't come up with anything. Apologies if this has been asked before and I missed it.
You can hide adult program titles (they will display as 'Adult Programming').
Menu, Menu, Setup, Locks Setup. Type in your code (or create one.) Scroll down to 'Adult Titles' and change from 'Show' to 'Hide'. Hit Exit to get out of the menus.

I'm considering switching from the 6412 to the 3416 so I can use HDMI into my receiver. A while back I was reading lots of reports about audio bugs however. Has all that been worked out with the latest firmware or are there still issues? Thanks.

I've had a 6412 version I for about 18 months and after getting my HDTV last week, traded it in for the 6412 version III at my local cable company for the same reason (Time Warner, formerly Adelphia). The PQ of HD is very similar, but the SD channels are light years ahead on the III. I just called and swapped the boxes out with no trouble aside from losing my recordings, maybe you can do the same.

As far as bugs, I had no problems with vI and, so far, have no issues at all with vIII. The remote is the same, too, if you're using a universal, so you won't need to reprogram.

What is the difference between the 6412 III and the 6416 III?

I'm trying to hear GolTV's audio in English. It's supposed to be there. Comcast tells me that my TV should be able to find it, but my TV doesn't see MTS/SAP at all unless the signal comes in through its own tuner, not through its various "video" inputs. (In this case, HTML.) That makes sense.

There does appear to be a "default" language selection in the setup/audio menu of the 6412. But it seems to do literally nothing. Auto, English, Spanish -- same behavior.

Has anyone actually (like actually, not just guessing) managed to hear GolTV in English when receiving it via a Comcast 6412 box? Thanks for any help!

What is the difference between the 6412 III and the 6416 III?

40GB. :)

Randy

I fixed the mute issue easily. I think one of my children must have hit the wrong button on my Harmony remote. I went into device mode, selected the 6412 and pressed mute which unmuted the STB. That was easy.

But now I have a far more serious problem. Any recording I select, the box thinks that recording is at the end and displays the delete/don't delete dialog box. I've tried clicking on the rewind to beginning but that doesn't work. I tried unplugging the box for a few seconds, plugging back in and rebooting but that does not work. I am thinking that I may unplug for a longer period and try rebooting again. Any suggestions as to what is going on and how I can troubleshoot? Thanks.

I've had a 6412 PII for just over two years now but I have recently been having more and more problems with it (mostly since that last firmware upgrade around 6 months ago). The box has always hung and lagged but now it is telling me my DVR is full when there is nothing on it, it is stopping recordings in the middle of shows, randomly deleting saved recordings, and it is choosing to just not record shows that should be recorded. I called last week and the Comcast guy on the phone told me, are you ready for this, this is all NORMAL! Yes, he said that these were all normal happenings with my box. Finally, after the box telling me it was 94% full with only about 10 min of HD recorded last night, I decided to take it in and get a new one. They gave me two addresses near me (one in Aurora and one in Naperville) that I can take the box to but they couldn't promise me that either place would have a replacement box in-stock for me (of course they couldn't give me phone numbers for either place). Do these places usually have replacement boxes? Also, should I ask for a specific box when I take it in or should I just take what they give me?

I've had a 6412 PII for just over two years now but I have recently been having more and more problems with it (mostly since that last firmware upgrade around 6 months ago). The box has always hung and lagged but now it is telling me my DVR is full when there is nothing on it, it is stopping recordings in the middle of shows, randomly deleting saved recordings, and it is choosing to just not record shows that should be recorded. I called last week and the Comcast guy on the phone told me, are you ready for this, this is all NORMAL! Yes, he said that these were all normal happenings with my box. Finally, after the box telling me it was 94% full with only about 10 min of HD recorded last night, I decided to take it in and get a new one. They gave me two addresses near me (one in Aurora and one in Naperville) that I can take the box to but they couldn't promise me that either place would have a replacement box in-stock for me (of course they couldn't give me phone numbers for either place). Do these places usually have replacement boxes? Also, should I ask for a specific box when I take it in or should I just take what they give me?

I can't answer your question or really add to this conversation other than to ask that you post how this turns out for you (whether you were able to exchange the box yourself).

I too have an old 6412 DVR that has been acting up more than usual these past several months (not quite to the extent of yours) and would love to exchange it....but I don't have time to wait for a tech to come out and do it for me. I'm in Schaumburg.

You guys might want to post over in your local HD forum, too, to see if anybody knows about availability. There might be a higher proportion of folks from your area hanging out there....

Good luck!

Randy

I'm considering switching from the 6412 to the 3416 so I can use HDMI into my receiver. A while back I was reading lots of reports about audio bugs however. Has all that been worked out with the latest firmware or are there still issues? Thanks.


Comcast replaced my dead 6412 with the 3416 and I've had no audio issues

I've had a 6412 PII for just over two years now but I have recently been having more and more problems with it (mostly since that last firmware upgrade around 6 months ago). The box has always hung and lagged but now it is telling me my DVR is full when there is nothing on it, it is stopping recordings in the middle of shows, randomly deleting saved recordings, and it is choosing to just not record shows that should be recorded. I called last week and the Comcast guy on the phone told me, are you ready for this, this is all NORMAL! Yes, he said that these were all normal happenings with my box. Finally, after the box telling me it was 94% full with only about 10 min of HD recorded last night, I decided to take it in and get a new one. They gave me two addresses near me (one in Aurora and one in Naperville) that I can take the box to but they couldn't promise me that either place would have a replacement box in-stock for me (of course they couldn't give me phone numbers for either place). Do these places usually have replacement boxes? Also, should I ask for a specific box when I take it in or should I just take what they give me?

My local Comcast office (Visalia, CA) had replacements in stock. I swapped the 6412 S II I'd had for 2+ yrs for a 6416 S III-albeit the only one they had. Just the box they gave me, didn't ask for it specifically. Told me that they were phasing out the 6412's due to their being "slower" than the 6416. Guessing "slower" might mean "locking up".

The 6412 was locking up more and more over the last few months, but no other weirdness.

My question is this---am I nuts or does the PQ of SD/"analog" (ch 2-99) look better via the 6416 than the 6412? Both units connected via component. But the PQ of Comedy Central, CNN and even my "analog" locals looks better than it did via the 6412.

My local Comcast office (Visalia, CA) had replacements in stock. I swapped the 6412 S II I'd had for 2+ yrs for a 6416 S III-albeit the only one they had. Just the box they gave me, didn't ask for it specifically. Told me that they were phasing out the 6412's due to their being "slower" than the 6416. Guessing "slower" might mean "locking up".

The 6412 was locking up more and more over the last few months, but no other weirdness.

My question is this---am I nuts or does the PQ of SD/"analog" (ch 2-99) look better via the 6416 than the 6412? Both units connected via component. But the PQ of Comedy Central, CNN and even my "analog" locals looks better than it did via the 6412.


You are not nuts. The 6412-6416 phase3 dvr's have a better video chip than the original 6412 have.

ajwees41

I tried unplugging the box for a few seconds, plugging back in and rebooting but that does not work.Try this:

Start recording something/anything. THEN pull the power plug for about a minute. That usually works.

I have the 6412, when playing recorded HD shows or 'catching up' after having HD on pause for a few minutes, when I try to Fast Forward, it isn't really 'fast'. The picture pauses for a few seconds, then jumps a few seconds, then pauses, then jumps. Basically it fast forwards in real time. So if I leave it on FF for 5 minutes, it only advanced forward 5 minutes, no matter if it is in FF1, FF2, FF3 or FF4. Has anyone else had this problem? It's quite irratiting.

Also, when trying to setup 2 shows to record at the same time, I sometimes get the error on the second show telling me something is already scheduled to be recorded at the same time, well duh, I have 2 tuners now no? Do it. Other times it works fine and setups the recordings for both shows. It's really quite baffiling.

I have the 6412, when playing recorded HD shows or 'catching up' after having HD on pause for a few minutes, when I try to Fast Forward, it isn't really 'fast'. The picture pauses for a few seconds, then jumps a few seconds, then pauses, then jumps. Basically it fast forwards in real time. So if I leave it on FF for 5 minutes, it only advanced forward 5 minutes, no matter if it is in FF1, FF2, FF3 or FF4. Has anyone else had this problem? It's quite irratiting.

. . .


Nope, never had that problem.

I have the 6412, when playing recorded HD shows or 'catching up' after having HD on pause for a few minutes, when I try to Fast Forward, it isn't really 'fast'. The picture pauses for a few seconds, then jumps a few seconds, then pauses, then jumps. Basically it fast forwards in real time. So if I leave it on FF for 5 minutes, it only advanced forward 5 minutes, no matter if it is in FF1, FF2, FF3 or FF4. Has anyone else had this problem? It's quite irratiting.



I have that problem whenever
a. I've attempted a Firewire transfer to my XP PC. So I no longer bother! Good anti-piracy measure, Comcast :)
b. When she's been running for too many days (too many: 5 to10 or more)

Time for a hard reboot, unfortunately. That's the only thing that consistently fixes the not-quite-Fast-Forward symptom.

Somone posted that starting a fresh recording and deleting it while it records *may* also fix it - didn't work for me.

I'm trying to hear GolTV's audio in English. It's supposed to be there. Comcast tells me that my TV should be able to find it, but my TV doesn't see MTS/SAP at all unless the signal comes in through its own tuner, not through its various "video" inputs. (In this case, HTML.) That makes sense.

There does appear to be a "default" language selection in the setup/audio menu of the 6412. But it seems to do literally nothing. Auto, English, Spanish -- same behavior.

Has anyone actually (like actually, not just guessing) managed to hear GolTV in English when receiving it via a Comcast 6412 box? Thanks for any help!
Try:
Menu, menu, Setup, Audio Setup, Default Audio Track. Change it to English.

Ok, here's a stupid question. I was able to swap out my box today at Comcast but how do I tell which box I got in return? I can see a 120 gig HD in it but how do I know what model it is? I can't see any distinguishing markings on it. This box is much quieter than my old box but one thing that kinda irritated me was that there were already 20+ shows recorded on the DVR and I had to delete a bunch of series recordings. Doesn't Comcast even reformat these things when they get returned?

Ok, here's a stupid question. I was able to swap out my box today at Comcast but how do I tell which box I got in return? I can see a 120 gig HD in it but how do I know what model it is? I can't see any distinguishing markings on it. This box is much quieter than my old box but one thing that kinda irritated me was that there were already 20+ shows recorded on the DVR and I had to delete a bunch of series recordings. Doesn't Comcast even reformat these things when they get returned?

Cheer ya go main....
http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR/Identifying_your_model

Try:
Menu, menu, Setup, Audio Setup, Default Audio Track. Change it to English.

I guess I was unclear -- that is exactly what has no effect whatsoever for GolTV. I will test again with other channels that have SAP (I'll try Spanish with PBS or local news, etc.), but I'm pretty sure I tried that already.

Does that setting work for you?

Time for a hard reboot, unfortunately. That's the only thing that consistently fixes the not-quite-Fast-Forward symptom.

How do I do that?

Thanks,
Chad

How do I do that?

Thanks,
Chad

Disconnect power.
Pray if you're religious
Count to 10 (don't just shove the power back in)
Count to 10 (this one to prevent you from getting your sledgehammer and going at the 6412)
Let it power up, ensure FFWD works 'correctly', and tolerate the absence of Guide data, and the gradual population over a 1-3 day period.

Rinse
Repeat.

Disconnect power.
Pray if you're religious
Count to 10 (don't just shove the power back in)
Count to 10 (this one to prevent you from getting your sledgehammer and going at the 6412)
Let it power up, ensure FFWD works 'correctly', and tolerate the absence of Guide data, and the gradual population over a 1-3 day period.

Rinse
Repeat.

Doesn't it actually require you to hold the Menu button down while plugging it back in? That's how I get the "boot" screen...

There is no need to wait for any time period. The STB loses power completely as soon as it is unpluged.

Push the {power} & {menu} keys in together whule re-connecting the power cable. This is how you access the Boot Menu.

Arrrow up/down till you get to (n dl) and then press the {sellect} key.

The STB will then Begin Downloading:

STB Software
EPG Software
Firmware

The STB will then reboot
The STB will then set the STB Clock
The STB will then download your account settings.

The STB will then begin the download of IPG info.

Try:
Menu, menu, Setup, Audio Setup, Default Audio Track. Change it to English.

Comcast doesn't always activitate the 2nd audio in every market, though. I had the English audio track in early 2005 on GolTV, and it disappeared, and putting the default audio to English as you suggest above does not matter anymore. I've contacted Comcast & GolTV about this, to no avail. As I've watched lots of soccer in Spanish for 25 years, it doesn't prevent me from watching games on GolTV, but I would prefer English.

For the last week, firewire between my 6412III and JVC HM-DH5U VCR has not worked. I haven't been able to pinpoint the problem but audio stops and video often skips. The picture from the HDMI and component connection is still fine. I am about to return the thing but will try another firewire cable and reset, unplug and try again. Any help would be appreciated. I have made about 1,000 D-VHS recordings from other sources, but this one has been pretty tough to get worrking right, although I have made maybe 20 recordings from InHD and DiscoveryHD with the thing before it quit working.

Chris

Can any of you savvy in the ways of iGuide tell me if the status bar, when you pause or fast forward, can be turned off. If so, how to.

Can any of you savvy in the ways of iGuide tell me if the status bar, when you pause or fast forward, can be turned off. If so, how to.

While fast-forwarding or rewinding, hit the "Exit" button.

Brian

What firmware is everyone on with this unit? I have an Onkyo TX-SR674 that has HDMI repeater and Comcast in Richmond will not update my firmware from 12.31 to 12.35 to allow my Onkyo to repeat the signal to my TV. I have to use Component cables for the meantime until they update the firmware. I feel cheated since I've read in some places other users are already on 12.35. I am almost willing to switch to another provider, but the only choice would be a satellite system, which I really would like to see if there is a way to force comcast into updating the firmware.

While fast-forwarding or rewinding, hit the "Exit" button.

Brian

True. But be aware that it times back out (or in?) and shows up again after a few seconds. Especially irritating when it reappears on a Paused screen after the same timeout.

And if you are overzealous with hitting exit to make it disappear, while watching a recording, you're liable toeExit out of playback into Live TV. Aaarrgh!

What firmware is everyone on with this unit? I have an Onkyo TX-SR674 that has HDMI repeater and Comcast in Richmond will not update my firmware from 12.31 to 12.35 to allow my Onkyo to repeat the signal to my TV. I have to use Component cables for the meantime until they update the firmware. I feel cheated since I've read in some places other users are already on 12.35. I am almost willing to switch to another provider, but the only choice would be a satellite system, which I really would like to see if there is a way to force comcast into updating the firmware.

F/W version is dependent on headend / plant systems. Not everyone will get or use the same version of software or firmware.

if your area is at 12.31, then that is the latest version they can run on there equipment.

FYI, the 7.xx & 9.xx & 12.xx series is no longer being worked on / updated.

the 15.xx & 16.xx & 19.xx series are all current F/W versions now being worked on and updated.

And if you are overzealous with hitting exit to make it disappear, while watching a recording, you're liable toeExit out of playback into Live TV. Aaarrgh!

That is the most irritating aspect of the box to me. But, I discovered that if you hit the "jump" or "previous channel" button (I can't remember what it's called) immediately after exiting by mistake, it will take you right back to where you exited the recording, not the previous channel watched. Still irritating, but this solution avoids having to go back into the menus.

That is the most irritating aspect of the box to me. But, I discovered that if you hit the "jump" or "previous channel" button (I can't remember what it's called) immediately after exiting by mistake, it will take you right back to where you exited the recording, not the previous channel watched. Still irritating, but this solution avoids having to go back into the menus.

That IS a good feature :)

The TiVo's nearest equivalent is hitting LeftArrow from a LiveTV screen which takes you back to WHEREVER in the menu system you were before (never inadvertently!) hitting Live TV. If you happened to be watching a show, resumption is as simple as TWO keypresses (Left Arror and hitting Play or Select to resume playing), but like I said, on the TiVo, it isn't possible to inadvertently exit the playback of a recording and enter Live TV. :)

What firmware is everyone on with this unit? I have an Onkyo TX-SR674 that has HDMI repeater and Comcast in Richmond will not update my firmware from 12.31 to 12.35 to allow my Onkyo to repeat the signal to my TV. I have to use Component cables for the meantime until they update the firmware. I feel cheated since I've read in some places other users are already on 12.35. I am almost willing to switch to another provider, but the only choice would be a satellite system, which I really would like to see if there is a way to force comcast into updating the firmware.I was lucky enough to get V16.20 in early-mid January as part of a region-wide update. Usually it's not possible to get a single box updated without all others connected to the head end being updated at the same time. But a few posters here and in the audioholics thread have done it. See post #267 in this thread http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=649941

While fast-forwarding or rewinding, hit the "Exit" button.

Brian
Thank you. Got home. Tried it, worked great. I think I may even program a macro or 2 in the remote for this!!

I have an older (2001) RPTV so all I have available for my HD video connection is component cable. I've had the *original* (Phase I?) Moto 6412 since they were first made available to us in the SF Bay Area. Other than the known bugs, everything seems okay, and I was not planning on upgrading to a new TV with HDMI until my current set dies.

But now I'm seeing talk on the forums here of Phase IIs & IIIs and 3412s and 6416s, cablecards, SDV, and the statement that Comcast is phasing out my DVR. Will I lose my DVR functionality from Comcast if I don't upgrade in the near-future? I'm happy with my current setup unless an alternate DVR will give me better video quality and/or enhancements, and more recording space (160G?) with fewer bugs. But like I said, I'm still limited by my TV to component cable connections (I use optical cable for my 6.1 audio). Am I okay to stay with what I've got, or do I need to upgrade? Any recommendations or advice as to what I should be doing?

I have an older (2001) RPTV so all I have available for my HD video connection is component cable...
No need for you to change a thing. The 6412 will still work even though they are being phased out. Like the old saying goes, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it".

I have an older (2001) RPTV so all I have available for my HD video connection is component cable. I've had the *original* (Phase I?) Moto 6412 since they were first made available to us in the SF Bay Area. Other than the known bugs, everything seems okay, and I was not planning on upgrading to a new TV with HDMI until my current set dies.

But now I'm seeing talk on the forums here of Phase IIs & IIIs and 3412s and 6416s, cablecards, SDV, and the statement that Comcast is phasing out my DVR. Will I lose my DVR functionality from Comcast if I don't upgrade in the near-future? I'm happy with my current setup unless an alternate DVR will give me better video quality and/or enhancements, and more recording space (160G?) with fewer bugs. But like I said, I'm still limited by my TV to component cable connections (I use optical cable for my 6.1 audio). Am I okay to stay with what I've got, or do I need to upgrade? Any recommendations or advice as to what I should be doing?One advantage of a Phase III box is the much improved SD PQ -- I have seen this myself when I went from a PII to PIII, and several OP's have commented on it as well. Also -- if I could get my hands on a 6416 (or 3416) instead of the 6412 I'd jump at it to get the extra 40GB of disk space. :D

Other than occasional (but infrequent) sluggishness in response to FF/REW/PLAY commands I have been lucky to not experience most of the bugs that OP's have mentioned. But -- as always -- YMMV.

Hello,

Is there any way in iGuide to edit the channel list? For example, I don't subscribe to HBO, Showtime, etc. but when I'm navigating through the guide I have to wade through all of them.

No. But you can set up a set of favorites and just use the favorites guide.

Ok, here's a stupid question. I was able to swap out my box today at Comcast but how do I tell which box I got in return? I can see a 120 gig HD in it but how do I know what model it is? I can't see any distinguishing markings on it. This box is much quieter than my old box but one thing that kinda irritated me was that there were already 20+ shows recorded on the DVR and I had to delete a bunch of series recordings. Doesn't Comcast even reformat these things when they get returned?
Turns out it looks like I'm going to have to get yet another box from Comcast. Over the past few days I have been trying to set up a few series recordings on the box and every time I click to confirm it, the box reboots and the series isn't set to record. I then wait 12+ hours for the guide to fill in again and try again. Same thing, box reboots. I've done this three times now and all three times the box has rebooted on the same click. I called Comcast and, of course, they wanted to send a signal to my box to reset it. I told them no, I want a new box and they are sending someone out tomorrow with a new box. Hopefully I'll be able to get one of the newer boxes from the installer.

Our 6412P3 started acting very strangely this past weekend. It would blackout on a recorded program and just give error messages that said "call customer service" on nearly any button press.

The final straw was that it had erased all recorded programs and scheduled recording lists on Wednesday. grrrrr.....

I called Comcast and they delivered a 3416P1 on Thursday. I didn't realize they had implemented ADS in Baltimore county so that was a surprise.

The HD picture quality is noticeably better than the 6412P3. I could be due to the 6412P3 slowly dying however.

Also the HDMI audio seems to be more stable. I turned the 3412 off/on several times while accessing the service menus and HDMI audio was fine upon each power on. This would have required unplugging the AC power from the 6412.

so far, so good...

jtm

One advantage of a Phase III box is the much improved SD PQ -- I have seen this myself when I went from a PII to PIII, and several OP's have commented on it as well. Also -- if I could get my hands on a 6416 (or 3416) instead of the 6412 I'd jump at it to get the extra 40GB of disk space. :D

Other than occasional (but infrequent) sluggishness in response to FF/REW/PLAY commands I have been lucky to not experience most of the bugs that OP's have mentioned. But -- as always -- YMMV.

Now I know I sound like a broken record, inebriated on TiVo KoolAid, but trust me - the S3 has VASTLY better video quality on SD channels than even the PIII 6412. Counterintuitive, perhaps - considering they use the same family of Broadcom chips which (I think) handle the MPEG decoding ... but I was stunned by the side-by-side comparison on SD (both digital & analog) shows. Maybe the Broadcom chip doesn't really do decoding?

The S3 IS THX-certified, which I felt was such a waste, until I saw the difference!

Comcast doesn't always activitate the 2nd audio in every market, though. I had the English audio track in early 2005 on GolTV, and it disappeared, and putting the default audio to English as you suggest above does not matter anymore. I've contacted Comcast & GolTV about this, to no avail. As I've watched lots of soccer in Spanish for 25 years, it doesn't prevent me from watching games on GolTV, but I would prefer English.

Note that even if you can get English on GolTV (like for the Arsenal and Liverpool weekly shows), other programming may still be Spanish-only. Not the least of which are those endless PeoplePC commericials.

I'm trying to decide between 3 different LCD that are all 52 inch Please Help This is the 3 Sony: KDL-52XBR2 or KDL-52XBR3
Samsung: LN-S5296D

No. But you can set up a set of favorites and just use the favorites guide.

Thanks. I thought of that but I was hoping to keep my favorites down to a couple dozen or so and still have a regular list of channels that didn't include channels I wasn't subscribed to. Oh well...

I'm having a problem and I don't see it listed in the wikibooks bugs. I recorded Grey's Anatomy last night. I was trying to finish watching something else while it was recording so I could delete the older show as my box was at 99%. It says it recorded 61 minutes of Grey's, but when I try to play it it immediately goes to the delete screen. This actually happened with the other episode of Grey's I was trying to watch earlier. I stopped the playback to check out something on live tv and when I went back it was doing the exact same thing. I unplugged the box and plugged it back in and was able to get it to play again. I tried the same thing this time to no avail. I'm only at 85% capacity right now. Is there anything else I can do?

Thanks.

Thanks. I thought of that but I was hoping to keep my favorites down to a couple dozen or so and still have a regular list of channels that didn't include channels I wasn't subscribed to. Oh well...


You can set up more that one list on the latest iguide.

Thanks. I thought of that but I was hoping to keep my favorites down to a couple dozen or so and still have a regular list of channels that didn't include channels I wasn't subscribed to. Oh well...I believe you can set up multiple favorites lists.

I'm having a problem and I don't see it listed in the wikibooks bugs. I recorded Grey's Anatomy last night. I was trying to finish watching something else while it was recording so I could delete the older show as my box was at 99%. It says it recorded 61 minutes of Grey's, but when I try to play it it immediately goes to the delete screen. This actually happened with the other episode of Grey's I was trying to watch earlier. I stopped the playback to check out something on live tv and when I went back it was doing the exact same thing. I unplugged the box and plugged it back in and was able to get it to play again. I tried the same thing this time to no avail. I'm only at 85% capacity right now. Is there anything else I can do?

Thanks.

I can only tell you what I do, and that is don't let this DVR be near capacity. I can't predict or explain what happens when I have allowed it but one thing it doesn't do is record and playback properly.

Chris

I can only tell you what I do, and that is don't let this DVR be near capacity. I can't predict or explain what happens when I have allowed it but one thing it doesn't do is record and playback properly.

Chris

Easier said than done. :(

I need to go through and watch all the Arrested Developments I recorded on G4. :)

I have a 6412 PIII, with the 16.2 firmware. I just noticed something that wasn't there until recently, long after I got the new firmware. When I use "On Demand," in the past, when I would end a program by hitting "exit," or "stop," and then hit "last," I would be returned to the main "On Demand" menu. Now, I am returned to the real "last," that is the portion of the menu I actually selected the program from, the program list. I like that much better.

But, I have also noticed that the command freeze-up has gotten MUCH worse recently. Previously, I had a problem with it only occassionally. But now, it happens often, and when it 'catches up,' it doesn't execute the sent comands all in a flash, but takes a minute or two for each! My solution has been to power off for a minute, which may take a few minutes to execute. When I power on, timely execution of commands is restored.

But, I have also noticed that the command freeze-up has gotten MUCH worse recently. Previously, I had a problem with it only occassionally. But now, it happens often, and when it 'catches up,' it doesn't execute the sent comands all in a flash, but takes a minute or two for each! My solution has been to power off for a minute, which may take a few minutes to execute. When I power on, timely execution of commands is restored.

Me too.

I can't believe that Comcast cannot do better than this POS DVR. I guess you could say it's a cheap rental but if I rented a computer that froze half as much as this DVR I'd toss in the garbage can. I've never built a DVR and really don't know how they work...but if I built a house that functioned as poorly as these DVR's I wouldn't have a job.

I have a 6412 PIII, with the 16.2 firmware. I just noticed something that wasn't there until recently, long after I got the new firmware. When I use "On Demand," in the past, when I would end a program by hitting "exit," or "stop," and then hit "last," I would be returned to the main "On Demand" menu. Now, I am returned to the real "last," that is the portion of the menu I actually selected the program from, the program list. I like that much better.
This seems to depend on the length of the program. For short shows like music videos and similar, it will sometimes return you to the last menu. But, if you try to back up, it jumps all the way to the main menu again. I think it did this even before the firmware/software upgrade.

I believe you can set up multiple favorites lists.

You can set up more that one list on the latest iguide.

That's exactly what I need, but I'm on Time Warner and I apparently don't have the latest software. I appear to be way back on 71.44-1203. Is there anyobdy in SoCal on Time Warner with a later version, prefereably 74.53-3321? Is there a separate thread for TW subscribers?

I can't believe that Comcast cannot do better than this POS DVR. I guess you could say it's a cheap rental but if I rented a computer that froze half as much as this DVR I'd toss in the garbage can. I've never built a DVR and really don't know how they work...but if I built a house that functioned as poorly as these DVR's I wouldn't have a job.I think the reality is that comparatively few people have the problems as bad as you describe it. As such, it serves the purpose of providing the customer-base with a serviceable, high-definition receiver, which is what it needs to be.

Me too.

I can't believe that Comcast cannot do better than this POS DVR. I guess you could say it's a cheap rental but if I rented a computer that froze half as much as this DVR I'd toss in the garbage can. I've never built a DVR and really don't know how they work...but if I built a house that functioned as poorly as these DVR's I wouldn't have a job.

Amen! These things are a total joke! I have had FIVE 6412's all with problems, and now I have a brand new 6416...also with problems. It worked great for about 10 days, and then the weirdness began....freezes when recording, says 100% full when it was 47% full 10 minutes earlier, became totally non-responsive to both remote and front panel controls, and now it has the delightful stuttering video problem! I am about fed up with Comcast and their junk boxes. I guess I should be glad I don't own the darn things..lol :mad: New info: I just called Comcast, and they said 'we are having a lot of DVR problems' DUH! :)

Amen! These things are a total joke! I have had FIVE 6412's all with problems, and now I have a brand new 6416...also with problems. It worked great for about 10 days, and then the weirdness began....freezes when recording, says 100% full when it was 47% full 10 minutes earlier, became totally non-responsive to both remote and front panel controls, and now it has the delightful stuttering video problem! I am about fed up with Comcast and their junk boxes. I guess I should be glad I don't own the darn things..lol :mad: New info: I just called Comcast, and they said 'we are having a lot of DVR problems' DUH! :)
I'm with you guys -- I'm on my fourth or fifth 6412; every single one has had problems. These things are junk; I'm really hoping that the problems are mostly software-related and they can be fixed with the Tivo update.

Bicker, I know plenty of people who have this DVR and despise it, but don't complain because they figure it's par for the course for Comcast. I also have family members who believe that it's just like a computer, so it will crash and be as unreliable as a computer. I'm personally embarrassed that I recomended this DVR to several friends and family members -- I have some non-techie ones who insist on reminding me everytime we get together how bad it is. Unfortunately, regular TV isn't that big of deal for me (not enough to justify a stand alone Tivo 3)so I choose to spend my money on an HD-DVD player and PS3 (for BluRay).

Amen! These things are a total joke! I have had FIVE 6412's all with problems, and now I have a brand new 6416...also with problems. It worked great for about 10 days, and then the weirdness began....freezes when recording, says 100% full when it was 47% full 10 minutes earlier, became totally non-responsive to both remote and front panel controls, and now it has the delightful stuttering video problem! I am about fed up with Comcast and their junk boxes. I guess I should be glad I don't own the darn things..lol :mad: New info: I just called Comcast, and they said 'we are having a lot of DVR problems' DUH! :)

My spin on the moto DVRs is that they were designed for the "everyday joe" who wants to record something once in awhile, or maybe pick a show or 2 and set a series recording, in addition to pausing live TV, doing your own instant replays, etc.

I fit into that category and besides the command backlog that ONLY happens when I'm watching HD material my 6412 (with recordings dating back to 8/2005) has met my needs.

That being said, there's ALWAYS room for improvement and I've never used Tivo which probably explains my severe lack of TV recording sophistication. I guess my question to those that have the really annoying issues I see pasted all over forums like this is whether or not you are recording in a similar fashion described above or if you have multiple recordings set via series, etc etc.

Also, I'm trying to figure out if I'm just lucky or if the later DVRs are really bad and that I should hold on my my 6412 until they pry it out of my hands?

My spin on the moto DVRs is that they were designed for the "everyday joe" who wants to record something once in awhile, or maybe pick a show or 2 and set a series recording, in addition to pausing live TV, doing your own instant replays, etc.

I fit into that category and besides the command backlog that ONLY happens when I'm watching HD material my 6412 (with recordings dating back to 8/2005) has met my needs.

That being said, there's ALWAYS room for improvement and I've never used Tivo which probably explains my severe lack of TV recording sophistication. I guess my question to those that have the really annoying issues I see pasted all over forums like this is whether or not you are recording in a similar fashion described above or if you have multiple recordings set via series, etc etc.

Also, I'm trying to figure out if I'm just lucky or if the later DVRs are really bad and that I should hold on my my 6412 until they pry it out of my hands?

I'm on my second one (6412), and have been pretty happy with it, overall. I thought I had a problem with my first one, but as it turns out I think it was probably more a transmission issue. Anyway, there is no doubt that there are plenty of bad ones out there, but I think it is fair to say that there are quite a few out there that are doing okay for people...

Randy

My 6412 is once again screwed up. Now if I press My DVR, I have to press OK again for the list to show up, else there is a just corrupt GUI up.

I also have to unplug it at least once a week in order to keep it from fully freezing up everytime I send it a command from the remote.

I can only hope the Tivo software fixes these boxes, else I'm dropping Comcast DVR and buying an S3.

The My DVR issue is happening all over the country. Push Menu, Menu, and go into DVR there. Before you hit the sack tonight, power cycle the cable box. Hopefully by morning it will be fixed.

http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,17869326

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9832150#post9832150

I've had mine for 15 months and haven't had any problems with the box itself and I use it a lot. I'm amazed at something that can give me such good performance, record two programs at once and cost me only 5 bucks a month. I believe that most of the difficulties people experience with them, are caused by things that happen at the headend or in the transmission lines and amplifiers along the way.

I know that some people get unlucky and have a series of equipment that is all lemons. I just returned the third digital camera in two months, that had the same breakdown as the first two. But, out of literally millions of people with these DVRs, we usually hear only from the few with bad units. When a dozen of them get together on a discussion group, they start thinking that the other 99.9% of them are equally flawed. Better luck to all of you, but you're in a small minority.

I've had mine for 15 months and haven't had any problems with the box itself and I use it a lot. I'm amazed at something that can give me such good performance, record two programs at once and cost me only 5 bucks a month. I believe that most of the difficulties people experience with them, are caused by things that happen at the headend or in the transmission lines and amplifiers along the way.

I know that some people get unlucky and have a series of equipment that is all lemons. I just returned the third digital camera in two months, that had the same breakdown as the first two. But, out of literally millions of people with these DVRs, we usually hear only from the few with bad units. When a dozen of them get together on a discussion group, they start thinking that the other 99.9% of them are equally flawed. Better luck to all of you, but you're in a small minority.

Steve McDonald

you must be the only one? Mine locked up last night and wouldn't goto the DVR menu....I had to hard-boot it and lose all my guide data....stupid POS

Whats also fun is when you're fast fowarding through the commercial and the damn thing gets stuck and fast forwards through the show you're trying to watch...quality right there

you must be the only one? Mine locked up last night and wouldn't goto the DVR menu....I had to hard-boot it and lose all my guide data....stupid POS

Whats also fun is when you're fast fowarding through the commercial and the damn thing gets stuck and fast forwards through the show you're trying to watch...quality right there

Should these things basically be never powered off? Or technically is it supposed to retain everything as long as the plug doesn't get pulled? I'm in a troubleshooting stage here too with lost tv guide and scheduled recordings...thanks.

you must be the only one? Mine locked up last night and wouldn't goto the DVR menu....I had to hard-boot it and lose all my guide data....stupid POS

Whats also fun is when you're fast fowarding through the commercial and the damn thing gets stuck and fast forwards through the show you're trying to watch...quality right there

Yep mine did the same thing last night, but I did'nt hard boot it I went into the DVR menu a different way from the main menu and it worked. I've also experienced the FF glitch, I agree it's a POS, it loses guide data all the time, the shows stay scheduled as "To Be announced" I onl tolerate it to have a Hi Def DVR, I loved my Tivo

I just noticed this last night that when watching any channel other than an HD channel I am only getting analog stereo sound with all audio coming only from my left front speaker. I can hear occassional crackling from my right speaker, but nothing from the center. Going to an HD channel makes it go back to the normal sound with audio coming through all speakers, center mostly with ambient going to the left/right as normal for digital sound. Normally, all comcast channels give the proper left/center/right split as my receiver picks it up as digital, but last night and this morning it was only picking it up as analog stereo. I have my 6412 hooked to my receiver via the coax digital connection. Anyway, just wondering if it's just me.

Bicker, I know plenty of people who have this DVR and despise it, but don't complain because they figure it's par for the course for Comcast.And indeed, given the general public's penchant for low prices rather than top-shelf service (see: Southwest Airlines, Best Buy, Wal-Mart, etc.), they're correct. These boxes are exactly what America ordered. Yet notice that even in your comment you've moved away from talking about the boxes as "junk" to simply something some people "despise". The closer we get to concrete actions by people, the less damned these boxes become... imagine that.

Unfortunately, regular TV isn't that big of deal for me (not enough to justify a stand alone Tivo 3)Which is the whole issue in a nutshell: The Motorola DVRs reflect the general public's priorities in this realm.

I guess my question to those that have the really annoying issues I see pasted all over forums like this is whether or not you are recording in a similar fashion described above or if you have multiple recordings set via series, etc etc. Another very telling question for these folks is: "What alternatives are available at the same price-point?" The answer is, generally, none, indicative of the fact that what they're offering is pretty much what people should expect to get for the price they're willing to pay.

Also, I'm trying to figure out if I'm just lucky or if the later DVRs are really bad and that I should hold on my my 6412 until they pry it out of my hands?I've gone from 6412 to 3412 to 3416 and each newer box was a little more stable than the previous.

And indeed, given the general public's penchant for low prices rather than top-shelf service (see: Southwest Airlines, Best Buy, Wal-Mart, etc.), they're correct.

I guess it is no surprise that I'll dispute this comment. We may be 'no-frills' but I still believe Southwest Airlines offers service superior to our competitors. Sorry for the temporary thread-jack, but I just had to. :D

Randy

Yep mine did the same thing last night, but I did'nt hard boot it I went into the DVR menu a different way from the main menu and it worked. I've also experienced the FF glitch, I agree it's a POS, it loses guide data all the time, the shows stay scheduled as "To Be announced" I onl tolerate it to have a Hi Def DVR, I loved my Tivo

This has happened to me twice as well in the last day. There's a more detailed discussion of this issue in the 3412/3416 thread. Essentially, it's a national issue, Comcast is working on it, and for now, use My DVR/OK or Menu/DVR to access your recordings and scheduled recordings.

I guess it is no surprise that I'll dispute this comment. We may be 'no-frills' but I still believe Southwest Airlines offers service superior to our competitors. Sorry for the temporary thread-jack, but I just had to. :D

Randy

If Southwest Airlines was as bad as Comcast, and their cable boxes, they would crash a plane at least once a week! My cable bill is a whopping $125.00 a month. (No internet, just for tv, and cable box only on one set. You think that is cheap?) I sure don't! Of course last night my box was doing the' MY DVR' screwup...so now I have had FIVE separate weird issues on the thing in about 10 days...boy am I impressed! The guy that cuts my hair was talking about all the same issues on his box. I would love to see one of these things that actually works as intended. I probably watch tv about 2 to 3 hours a day...it's not like I am sitting there pushing buttons 24/7 on the thing..lol :)

I think the reality is that comparatively few people have the problems as bad as you describe it. As such, it serves the purpose of providing the customer-base with a serviceable, high-definition receiver, which is what it needs to be.

You perhaps either own stock in, or work for Motorola, and/or Comcast? :rolleyes: 'Serviceable' is not the word I would use to describe these after having FIVE boxes, and several in home service calls...LOL :)

An Yet notice that even in your comment you've moved away from talking about the boxes as "junk" to simply something some people "despise". The closer we get to concrete actions by people, the less damned these boxes become... imagine that.
Bicker, I have not moved away from calling the boxes what they are -- junk. I'm not sure if it's the hardware, software, or some mixture of both, but when put totgether, they make for an unreliable and overpriced (I consider the $16/mo rental fee to be overpriced) piece of junk. People despise the boxes because they are junk and don't work as advertised (at least in my mind and based on the comments of the people I am referencing).
I don't necessarily consider the price of the product to be cheap -- I spend about $100/month for Comcast; to me that's not cheap. As I said before, the functions of a DVR are not enough of a priority in my life for me to justify spending $650 upfront for a Tivo Series 3 plus around $10 more a month for the subscription than I currently pay with cable.

I'm just hopeful that either the Tivo software fixes the problems that seem to be pretty widespread (which I guess would mean that it was bad software and not the that box was junk) or the Tivo Series 3 comes down $200 or $300.

This has happened to me twice as well in the last day. There's a more detailed discussion of this issue in the 3412/3416 thread. Essentially, it's a national issue, Comcast is working on it, and for now, use My DVR/OK or Menu/DVR to access your recordings and scheduled recordings.


I've had this problem since late monday night. I've been using the Menu/DVR work around ever since. My 6412 just rebooted on its own at 2pm. For the time being at least, the problem seems to be resolved. We'll see what happens after the guide data repopulates.

This discussion has presented an inadvertent testimonial to the performance and dependability of the group of DVRs provided by Comcast. It appears that approximately one customer in each of about 8 states, has had problems with them, while all the rest are too busy enjoying them to register any comments.

Perhaps some of the Comcast transmission centers in these parts of the country are causing DVR operational glitches to occur for some customers, that these people are mistakenly attributing to their own individual boxes. Remember, these are fulltime interactive units, that can function only when proper and unbroken control signals are coming from the headend servers. Every few weeks, my generally fine-running box gets a bad command from headquarters to pretend that it's had a power shutoff and it dumps its program guide. But, I recognize the problem for what it is and don't hold a grudge against my own DVR. It's almost always a mistake to do a power-off "re-boot", to try to resolve malfunctions that don't originate in the box. The best thing, is to just wait for a minute or two or how ever long it takes for Comcast to straighten out their servers. If no one is on top of such things late at night, then it may not get fixed until morning, but there's not much anyone can do at home. On rare occasions, a phone call might get them to send a restorative signal to an individual DVR, but this isn't often a solution. You just need to think outside the box.

This has happened to me twice as well in the last day. There's a more detailed discussion of this issue in the 3412/3416 thread. Essentially, it's a national issue, Comcast is working on it, and for now, use My DVR/OK or Menu/DVR to access your recordings and scheduled recordings.

heh yup....I figured out the work-around too...the machine is so buggy...its not even funny

This discussion has presented an inadvertent testimonial to the performance and dependability of the group of DVRs provided by Comcast. It appears that approximately one customer in each of about 8 states, has had problems with them, while all the rest are too busy enjoying them to register any comments.

Perhaps some of the Comcast transmission centers in these parts of the country are causing DVR operational glitches to occur for some customers, that these people are mistakenly attributing to their own individual boxes. Remember, these are fulltime interactive units, that can function only when proper and unbroken control signals are coming from the headend servers. Every few weeks, my generally fine-running box gets a bad command from headquarters to pretend that it's had a power shutoff and it dumps its program guide. But, I recognize the problem for what it is and don't hold a grudge against my own DVR. It's almost always a mistake to do a power-off "re-boot", to try to resolve malfunctions that don't originate in the box. The best thing, is to just wait for a minute or two or how ever long it takes for Comcast to straighten out their servers. If no one is on top of such things late at night, then it may not get fixed until morning, but there's not much anyone can do at home. On rare occasions, a phone call might get them to send a restorative signal to an individual DVR, but this isn't often a solution. You just need to think outside the box.
Perhaps Comcast needs to think "outside the box" and make sure that all components of the DVR SERVICE that they provide are working together successfully.

These problems, as you say, are not necessarily about "the box," but rather about the DVR service.

I think your perception of very few people experiencing these problems falls way short. But, that is only my perception and opinion.

If the problems are truly "outside the box" then I would expect widespread impacts for many more customers than we will ever hear from here at the AVS Forum.

This discussion has presented an inadvertent testimonial to the performance and dependability of the group of DVRs provided by Comcast. It appears that approximately one customer in each of about 8 states, has had problems with them, while all the rest are too busy enjoying them to register any comments.

Perhaps some of the Comcast transmission centers in these parts of the country are causing DVR operational glitches to occur for some customers, that these people are mistakenly attributing to their own individual boxes. Remember, these are fulltime interactive units, that can function only when proper and unbroken control signals are coming from the headend servers. Every few weeks, my generally fine-running box gets a bad command from headquarters to pretend that it's had a power shutoff and it dumps its program guide. But, I recognize the problem for what it is and don't hold a grudge against my own DVR. It's almost always a mistake to do a power-off "re-boot", to try to resolve malfunctions that don't originate in the box. The best thing, is to just wait for a minute or two or how ever long it takes for Comcast to straighten out their servers. If no one is on top of such things late at night, then it may not get fixed until morning, but there's not much anyone can do at home. On rare occasions, a phone call might get them to send a restorative signal to an individual DVR, but this isn't often a solution. You just need to think outside the box.
Steve,
I'm not discounting what you are saying (I don't have enough of an understanding of how this particular box works to do so), but why wouldn't one of the four comcast techs who have been to my house have been able to determine that there is a problem with the signal transmission (either within my house, to my house, or at the head end)? Why also would the two non-DVR STBs we have (one HD and the other non HD) not exhibit any of the same problems as the 6412?

I think it's also more than just eight people in eight states having an issue with this box. Heck, right here we have 314 pages of mostly complaints about this box. There are many, many other places online where people point out how this box doesn't work for them. My wife, who is far from discerning when it comes to electronics, made me get rid of the other 6412 we had in her den area. I replaced it with a standalone Tivo 2 Dual Tuner (not HD capable) and the Motorola/Comcast non-DVR HD STB. Even though she had to give up recording in HD, she has been much, much happier. With the Tivo, the DVR functions are now working as they should and as they didn't with the 6412 -- things now record as scheduled, entire programs now record when scheduled, all programs now record with both sound and video, fast forward and rewind now work as they should, when she presses a button on the remote the desired response now occurs on the box immediately, the Tivo has not locked up once in 9 months (as opposed to the 6412 she had that needed to be reset about once a week), etc.

When I say that the 6412 is a piece of junk, I'm saying so because multiple functions such as those described above do not consistently perform as advertised on my current unit or on the multiple other units I've had to replace over the past couple of years. I don't understand why it is so hard for Motorola/Comcast to get these basic functions right. And I don't think the expense thing flies. The Tivo 2 DT that I bought her has an 80GB HDD, cost $40 upfront, and costs $13/month. If Comcast could offer a reliable HD-DVR, I'd be willing to pay $100 - $200 upfront plus the monthly subscription fee.

The My DVR issue is happening all over the country. Push Menu, Menu, and go into DVR there. Before you hit the sack tonight, power cycle the cable box. Hopefully by morning it will be fixed.

http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,17869326

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9832150#post9832150
Oh, good, then we can commiserate.

I had this problem months ago, and no one had ever heard of it, so I ended up with a new box. Over the past few days, I've had the HD stutter resurface and the My DVR problem. I've been rebooting, and considering a full box reset, followed by a full box swap, but I guess I'll have to sit tight.

Now the problems don't just originate inside a buggy box, they manifest themselves in nationwide outages caused by some network issue? What the hell?

Now the problems don't just originate inside a buggy box, they manifest themselves in nationwide outages caused by some network issue? What the hell?
The problem is with TV Guide. It is not Comcast specific, nor is it specific to the Motorola boxes (the problem was also posted in the thread for the Pace DVR). It is apparently influenced by something in the cable line, as rebooting the box does fix the problem (albeit for a short while before it reverts to this behavior). It does not seem to matter what version of the software is installed. Maybe a fault in the guide data is causing memory corruption??

I checked my scheduled recordings last night and found Heroes scheduled not to record this Monday. I thought maybe there was some sort of conflict but when I switched it to record it set it without any conflict warning. Any idea what might have happened?

Thanks.

I had a problem with Heroes again this week. I checked it a few days before and it was set to record. Then at 10:00 Monday night I noticed Heroes was not in my recordings and my scheduled recordings had a "to be announced" scheduled for 9:00 on NBC. I think I'm going to delete the series and set it up again, but does anyone have any idea why this happened?

On another note, my DVR has been acting strangely these past couple days. When I push "my DVR" I get an empty screen with garbled characters at the top ("if$"). I can only get to my recordings by going through the DVR menu and then selecting my recordings. I tried unplugging the DVR to reset it but it's still doing this.

Thanks.

On another note, my DVR has been acting strangely these past couple days. When I push "my DVR" I get an empty screen with garbled characters at the top ("if$"). I can only get to my recordings by going through the DVR menu and then selecting my recordings. I tried unplugging the DVR to reset it but it's still doing this.

Thanks.
Nationwide problem with the TVGuide software/schedule data.

This is the second time in as many nights that this happened to me:

Set Heroes series to record, ok. Set Lost series to record, ok. Set Scrubs to rec-POW! Power off almost like someone ripped the plug out of the wall, TV Guide gone. What the hell...Should I get my DVR replaced before I have a heart attack?

Oh yeah; My DVR problem too.

Come-on, guys; you've got to be imagining these issues. The 6412 doesn't have problems with basic functionality :D - sorry for the sarcasm; I just had to interject some after I saw that it managed to screw up one of three series recordings that I have it set to and the most important of the bunch-- my daily dose of PTI on ESPN (it recorded the video fine; no audio).

I really hope Comcast gets this fixed with the Tivo interface. I have to give them credit for having such a high quality HD picture. The picture on the HD channels is fantastic compared to what I've seen (and personally experienced) with DirecTV; it's just a shame that they can't offer a quality DVR to match.

The My DVR issue is happening all over the country. Push Menu, Menu, and go into DVR there. Before you hit the sack tonight, power cycle the cable box. Hopefully by morning it will be fixed.

http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,17869326

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9832150#post9832150

I experienced the same issue. I powered off the 6412 (unplugged) and powered it back on about 10 seconds later. The MY DVR key is working as it should. Lets hope it lasts.

Mine doesn't work anymore....;)

You perhaps either own stock in, or work for Motorola, and/or Comcast? :rolleyes: No. I'm just a rational, reasonable person, who doesn't let hyperbole and exaggeration stand without rebuttal.

(I consider the $16/mo rental fee to be overpriced)Then by definition anyone who agrees with you yet still pays for the service is irrational. :rolleyes:

People despise the boxes because they are junk and don't work as advertised (at least in my mind and based on the comments of the people I am referencing). You can make up whatever you wish, but no cable company has ever made such specific promises. People want to believe that everything will always work 100%. Reasonable, rational people know that's idiocy.

I don't necessarily consider the price of the product to be cheapCompared to the alternative, it is.

You can make up whatever you wish, but no cable company has ever made such specific promises. People want to believe that everything will always work 100%. Reasonable, rational people know that's idiocy.

Making this up??? What??? First of all, what's the deal with the personal insults and namecalling? I didn't realize that this was personal to anyone.

Secondly, Comcast's DVR doesn't consistently work as advertised. Here's their Internet advertisement for the DVR: Link (http://www.comcast.com/shop/buyflow/default.ashx?Popup=true&RenderedBy=Products&FormName=ProductDetails&ProductID=20007&Title=Comcast%20-%20Product%20Details%20-%20Digital%20Video%20Recorder) You may need to provide your address and select remember me at the Comcast site before the link will work for you.

It doesn't easily record a series "without timers" or in "one easy step", which is what half of the info page and their TV comemrcials for the DVR trumpet. The Wikibook created for the DVR has an entire section dedicated to using timer-based recordings for a series instead of the series recordings because the software is unable to reliably tell the difference between new shows and repeats with series recordings (TV and Replay have been doing this reliably for at least 7 years). It also doesn't work simply at the touch of a button; if it did, we wouldn't need a separate wikibook with pages upon pages of workarounds for basic functionality.

Most of the statements in this thread are far from hyperbole. I have gone to great lengths to detail my specific issues with this DVR to avoide exaggeration. I think the mere fact that so many people are stating the same issues that impede the basic functionality again, and again, and again with this unit from various parts of the country only strengthen the argument that this DVR is a piece of junk.

I own ReplayTV and TiVo and just recently got the DirecTV HR20-700. I have been using the Comcast Motorolla DCT6412III at my girlfriend's house for a few months and it does work here in Little Rock, at least. I have had to unplug it a few times and recently had to unplug my D-VHS VCR to get firewire working again. I can't see how anybody could deny TiVo and ReplayTV, even the new DirecTV DVR, all work more reliably but this one isn't bad in my opinion, just not as good. It has reliably recorded and played back the programs I have asked for so that is good enough for me.

The DVR consistently works as advertised for me in Little Rock, other areas or users may not be as fortunate.

Chris

Well I have been using the Motorola boxes now for 4 years and currently have a 6416. The one common issue in all of the boxes is the command buffer. This is clearly a box problem as the box stops executing commands and buffers the commands then starts executing them. Everyone has this problem and in 4 years and 4-5 versions of the box they still have not resolved that. Other than that and the crappy SD output in the pre III boxes I have not had a lot of issues until the last month or two.

Now all of a sudden I am seeing the box display recording action messages when I am only recording on one receiver and the other one I am watching is free, I am seeing odd things occur for series recordings etc. I think something else external to the box either a recent update or a guide change is screwing things up. Also have the MyDVR issue and I am on Advanced Cable a rather obscure carrier that only services Weston and Coral Springs FL but does use the same guide as other carriers.

My area is going to get a fairly substantial channel line up change in a week. Many of the stations are going to be moving channel numbers. What is going to happen to the programs I have series recordings set up for on those channels? Will the box figure everything out on its own (I'm guessing not likely), or will the box emit a white smoke and never work again (most likely given my experience with iGuide).

My area is going to get a fairly substantial channel line up change in a week. Many of the stations are going to be moving channel numbers. What is going to happen to the programs I have series recordings set up for on those channels? Will the box figure everything out on its own (I'm guessing not likely), or will the box emit a white smoke and never work again (most likely given my experience with iGuide).

I have no experience with the issue but I know what I would do. Delete the old schedules and start anew once the channel guide has been updated with the new numbers. The chances the DVR can update your scheduled recordings is slim.

Chris

This discussion has presented an inadvertent testimonial to the performance and dependability of the group of DVRs provided by Comcast. It appears that approximately one customer in each of about 8 states, has had problems with them, while all the rest are too busy enjoying them to register any comments.

That is a really bad assumption. Just because the number of people vocally complaining on this forum is relatively small doesn't mean those are the only people having problems. I, for one, have been seeing the exact same issues reported many, many times on this thread. I just don't feel compelled to pop up every other day and say "Me too".

There are a lot of words I would use to describe the 6412, but "performance" and "reliability" are not among them.

Perhaps some of the Comcast transmission centers in these parts of the country are causing DVR operational glitches to occur for some customers, that these people are mistakenly attributing to their own individual boxes. Remember, these are fulltime interactive units, that can function only when proper and unbroken control signals are coming from the headend servers. Every few weeks, my generally fine-running box gets a bad command from headquarters to pretend that it's had a power shutoff and it dumps its program guide. But, I recognize the problem for what it is and don't hold a grudge against my own DVR. It's almost always a mistake to do a power-off "re-boot", to try to resolve malfunctions that don't originate in the box. The best thing, is to just wait for a minute or two or how ever long it takes for Comcast to straighten out their servers. If no one is on top of such things late at night, then it may not get fixed until morning, but there's not much anyone can do at home. On rare occasions, a phone call might get them to send a restorative signal to an individual DVR, but this isn't often a solution. You just need to think outside the box.

I don't see what head-end problems would have to do with the frequent lock-ups where it either does nothing when I press a button on the remote, or else it waits a minute or two before it gets around to responding. And despite claims that this was supposedly fixed by a recent firmware upgrade, the problem has actually gotten worse.

No. I'm just a rational, reasonable person, who doesn't let hyperbole and exaggeration stand without rebuttal.

Since you are so happy with your DVR, and have no interest in Comcast or Motorola, why do you constantly camp in the forum and defend them? Hmmmm :)

Guys, can we stay on topic? This thread is long enough, and I get enough emails, without the personal asides.

Let's bitch about the box, its inadequate software and firmware, and a host of companies' total disregard for accepted software test methodologies, instead of each other, ok?

Not directing this at anyone in particular. I love you all. You're all my friends. You all contribute meaningful and helpful information.

I just got a new Pioneer 5070, does anyone know how to program the silver remote so that I can choose either AV 5 or AV 6 only? I am running my STB via HDMI to 5 and my PS3 to 6 and I don't want to have to cycle through the 7 other inputs to get back to Cable. I read the Wiki about the Moto but it did not address what I am looking for. The remote that came with the TV has dedicated buttons for each input so I am hoping that I can map some on the remote. Help please!!

I just got a new Pioneer 5070, does anyone know how to program the silver remote so that I can choose either AV 5 or AV 6 only? I am running my STB via HDMI to 5 and my PS3 to 6 and I don't want to have to cycle through the 7 other inputs to get back to Cable. I read the Wiki about the Moto but it did not address what I am looking for. The remote that came with the TV has dedicated buttons for each input so I am hoping that I can map some on the remote. Help please!!
What 4-digit Setup Code did you use when programming the remote? I'll see if I can find the EFCs for the discrete inputs. If you don't know the Setup Code, the Wiki has instructions for recalling the code.

If you want to experiment and find the EFCs yourself, you can do so by following these instructions:

1. Press (do NOT hold) the Setup button while in TV mode.
2. Type a 5-digit number in the range 00000 to 00255.
3. When pressing the last digit, make sure the remote is pointing to the TV. See how the TV responds to the code you typed in (if at all).

If the code does something you like (e.g. the TV switches to input 5), then use the Wiki instructions to map that code to a button. If not, try another code. Be forewarned that some TVs may have a "Reset" code that restores the TV to factory settings.

Does anyone else have series recording inexplicable power outs? Is this worth a call to get a replacement? Or a wait and see?

Thanks.

What 4-digit Setup Code did you use when programming the remote? I'll see if I can find the EFCs for the discrete inputs. If you don't know the Setup Code, the Wiki has instructions for recalling the code.

If you want to experiment and find the EFCs yourself, you can do so by following these instructions:

1. Press (do NOT hold) the Setup button while in TV mode.
2. Type a 5-digit number in the range 00000 to 00255.
3. When pressing the last digit, make sure the remote is pointing to the TV. See how the TV responds to the code you typed in (if at all).

If the code does something you like (e.g. the TV switches to input 5), then use the Wiki instructions to map that code to a button. If not, try another code. Be forewarned that some TVs may have a "Reset" code that restores the TV to factory settings.

It was 0166, thanks for the help, let me know if you find the discreet codes for AV 5 and AV 6

I went to the Pioneer website and they had codes for Pronto, rs 232, Universal remote control files, and IR codes.... but I cant decipher any of them!!! Here is the link in case someone can, the display is the pdp-5070 and I need the code for Input 5 and Input 6

It wont let me post the link...

Until I make 5...

posts.

okay, here is the link
http://www.pioneerelectronics.com/pna/v3/pg/ci/welcome/0,,2076_262645248,00.html?ReturnPath=/pio/pna/v3/pg/ci/codes&ReturnOid=2076_262645248

Does anyone else have series recording inexplicable power outs? Is this worth a call to get a replacement? Or a wait and see?

Thanks.

Not quite sure what you mean here, but none of my boxes has ever failed to record a show that I have set as a series recording. I have had a multitude of other issues, but thankfully I always seem to get the recordings I asked for.

It was 0166, thanks for the help, let me know if you find the discreet codes for AV 5 and AV 6
Well, I think I have the EFC's for inputs 1 through 5. I couldn't find one for input 6, though. These codes were for a similar model TV, but not the same, so I can't guarantee they will work. They are for setup code 0166, though, which matches.

00058 = Input 1
00054 = Input 2
00102 = Input 3
00238 = Input 4
00011 = Input 5

Do these codes do what you want?

Thank you, I will give Input 5 a try and let you know.

Input 1-4 works great.... but 5 doesn't work. I need input 5 and 6, I am also going to try the 5070 thread to see if anyone has it.

First of all, what's the deal with the personal insults and namecalling? I didn't realize that this was personal to anyone.Nothing is personal. We're talking about what people have said, not what kind of person anyone is.

Secondly, Comcast's DVR doesn't consistently work as advertised.Actually, it does. You choose to ascribe specific meanings to words like "easily", and that's your option, but reasonable people disagree about qualitative judgements like that. And that's the whole point: Just because you don't like something doesn't make it objectively bad. It just means you don't like it. Keep in mind what that page you sent the link to says, "Services are subject to terms and conditions of Comcast's subscriber agreements and other applicable terms and conditions." I don't have a copy of it handy, but you'll typically see langauge in terms and conditions that equivocate just how "perfect" the service needs to be (not very). This is standard for all service providers: Cable television, cell phone, magazine subscriptions, etc.

It doesn't easily record a series "without timers" or in "one easy step"Yeah, it does. You choose to interpret those words in a specific way to make the assertion untrue, but interpreted the way those words were clearly intended, what they're saying is absolutely 100% true. When I want to record something, I hit guide, and then click on the program, and select the record icon. Easy. No timer. One step.

Most of the statements in this thread are far from hyperbole.We'll have to agree to disagree about that.

Since you are so happy with your DVR, and have no interest in Comcast or Motorola, why do you constantly camp in the forum and defend them? Hmmmm :)I could ask why people unhappy with the DVR continue to pay for it. :rolleyes:

Input 1-4 works great.... but 5 doesn't work. I need input 5 and 6, I am also going to try the 5070 thread to see if anyone has it.
OK, I'll look a little further to see what I can find. If all else fails, you can try programming a macro to access inputs 5 and 6 (i.e. set up a macro to send "Input 4" followed by one or two "Input" presses). Not the ideal solution, but it would be better than pressing Input a gazillion times to get there (I've been down that road myself, so I know how it's like). Be careful, though, as macros are global and will work in all device modes (TV, Cable, and VCR), so make sure you assign the macro to a button you don't use in any mode.

My area is going to get a fairly substantial channel line up change in a week. Many of the stations are going to be moving channel numbers. What is going to happen to the programs I have series recordings set up for on those channels? Will the box figure everything out on its own (I'm guessing not likely), or will the box emit a white smoke and never work again (most likely given my experience with iGuide).
To be safe, go through your series list and scheduled recordings and write everything down (unless you have a photographic memory.)

The series recording list appears to use the channel NAME, not the number, if you tell it record 'only on this channel'. This causes problems where HD and SD channels have the same name. It would often record the one on the lower number (usually the SD.) I have a similar issue where a PBS is available as both an ADS version (11), and a true analog version (94). If I try to set a series on the analog version, it will eventually switch to the ADS.

Recordings you set manually (as VCR-style or by simply setting a recording off the guide) will need to be changed manually. You'll probably have to delete and recreate them. I THINK the bug where you could not delete a recording if it became buried inside a longer program due to a time change has been fixed.

I was just wondering if anyone else has had the same problems I've started to have on 3 yes that's right 3 of my boxes.

I live in Columbus and have Insight. All 3 DVR will not go to recorded shows when the "My DVR" button is pushed.... actually they all go to it, but nothing shows up. I have to go to Menu, DVR, My DVR, and then the recordings show up. Kind of a pain... and weird that they all just started doing this yesterday! Let me know what you all think it is.

I was just wondering if anyone else has had the same problems I've started to have on 3 yes that's right 3 of my boxes.

I live in Columbus and have Insight. All 3 DVR will not go to recorded shows when the "My DVR" button is pushed.... actually they all go to it, but nothing shows up. I have to go to Menu, DVR, My DVR, and then the recordings show up. Kind of a pain... and weird that they all just started doing this yesterday! Let me know what you all think it is.
Someone posted yesterday that this is a national issue -- something to do with an update that CCast is rolling out. I started noticing the same problem last night.

I was just wondering if anyone else has had the same problems I've started to have on 3 yes that's right 3 of my boxes.

I live in Columbus and have Insight. All 3 DVR will not go to recorded shows when the "My DVR" button is pushed.... actually they all go to it, but nothing shows up. I have to go to Menu, DVR, My DVR, and then the recordings show up. Kind of a pain... and weird that they all just started doing this yesterday! Let me know what you all think it is.

The whole country, and multiple cable companies, are experiencing the problem. See the post at http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9832166&&#post9832166

Last night things got even worse on my DVR, with it not being able to watch live TV either. In any case, unplugging power from my 6412-iii late last night for a minute and then plugging it back in solved the problem. Others reported doing that earlier in the day and having the problem return after several minutes. It has now been close to 18 hours since I power-cycled the box and the problem has not returned.

I was just wondering if anyone else has had the same problems I've started to have on 3 yes that's right 3 of my boxes.

I live in Columbus and have Insight. All 3 DVR will not go to recorded shows when the "My DVR" button is pushed.... actually they all go to it, but nothing shows up. I have to go to Menu, DVR, My DVR, and then the recordings show up. Kind of a pain... and weird that they all just started doing this yesterday! Let me know what you all think it is.
Had the problem here too (as well as seemingly everyone using iGuide). Problem requires a fix to be applied at the head-end. My box was fixed this morning - hopefully yours will be fixed very soon (I only had the problem for two days).

OK at this time, My DVR is working, I scheduled another show and I didn't get a power out. Only thing at this time I have a problem with is that I watched recorded Lost, and the sound was out of synch. I don't want to get into the delay on my reciever just yet untill I watch some more recordings and see how they act. Anyone else?

OK at this time, My DVR is working, I scheduled another show and I didn't get a power out. Only thing at this time I have a problem with is that I watched recorded Lost, and the sound was out of synch. I don't want to get into the delay on my reciever just yet untill I watch some more recordings and see how they act. Anyone else?My 6412 now has the normal DVR menu restored. I have not done a "cold boot" since the problem first arose 2 days ago -- so a fix must have been pushed out from the head end.

Re: sound synch -- a couple days ago (about the same point in time as the DVR menu bug) I started to see sound synch problems on live Fox shows -- in particular Seinfeld reruns. Other than that we mainly watch DVR recorded shows and I have not seen a sound synch problem on our main stations -- BBC America and CBS-HD.

Didn't notice tonight if it's still there (but didn't watch a Sein RR tonight) -- I'll check later and post if I see a problem.

Now that more than three months have passed since the 'see picture now - see snow now every couple of seconds' problem was reported which Comcast blamed it on a 'firmware upgrade' by Motorola on the 6200 boxes, has anyone heard of any update as to when there will be a resolution.

I called Comcast a couple of weeks ago - and it was deja-vu all over again. The guy who took my complaint swore that he had never heard of such a problem before. I asked him to look into my previous complaint call, and he said that the note made then did not include this problem!! Anyway, he sent a technician out to my house - who also claimed he never heard of this issue. He called his supervisor from my house and was told that it was a known issue and the supervisor had no clue as to when it will be resolved.

I am curious as to how many people are still having this problem, and what they are doing about it. I am forced to use the component connection - which leaves my DVD high and dry.
I have basic service with HD and no DVR. Comcast refuses to give me a HD-DVR unless I upgrade to their digital package, which I don't want to - I am the ABC, NBS, PBS kind of a guy.

The guy who took my complaint swore that he had never heard of such a problem before.I'd believe him. Generally folks don't remember problems unless they personally took more than one call about it or personally visited the home of more than one customer concerning it.

I am curious as to how many people are still having this problem, and what they are doing about it.Just for a data-point, I've got the DVR and don't have this problem at all.

I went to my DVR menu 2 nights ago and noticed the same issues as discussed in this thread (buggy read-outs, using Menu for workaround, etc.). I performed a power-cycle, and yesterday morning (2/22), the iGuide had not yet loaded. All program info was "To Be Announced." However, my scheduled recordings previously set up recorded as they were supposed to last night (the DVR was full of programs labeled "TBA".)

At 11:00 last night, before bed, I did a DVR Authorization and Factory Full Reset (following instructions on Wikibooks). This morning, there was no time shown on the box -- only the channel. I found that I could scroll through the channels using Channel Up/Down, but no other buttons worked on the remote (Menu, Guide, Info, DVR, OnDemand, etc.) A light would come on the display window when I pushed a remote button, but nothing would happen.

I got onto Comcast Online Help -- the technician told me that my box should be working and whether I wanted to schedule a technician to come out to exchange the box. Not helpful, since I've had 6 boxes in the past year, and the current box has been error-free for 5 months or so. I asked him to send a hit or signal -- he ignored me.

Any suggestions as to what else I can try to get this box operational again? I did another Factory Full Reset before leaving for work today -- maybe when I get home, it will be fine. However, the fact that the display is not showing the time worries me...

When the fix was applied for the DVR problem, did anyone lose all of their recorded shows? My box updated correctly, but my parents called last night and told me they lost all of their saved recordings and all of their scheduled recordings?

Anyone else have this problem?

When the fix was applied for the DVR problem, did anyone lose all of their recorded shows? My box updated correctly, but my parents called last night and told me they lost all of their saved recordings and all of their scheduled recordings?

Anyone else have this problem?
Nope. I watched several shows last night. Everything looked normal and all previously saved shows were still in tact.

When the fix was applied for the DVR problem, did anyone lose all of their recorded shows? My box updated correctly, but my parents called last night and told me they lost all of their saved recordings and all of their scheduled recordings?

Anyone else have this problem?

No problem here. Recordings undisturbed.

Fix was applied to my Moto 6412PIII without a reboot here in State College, PA with Comcast.

I could ask why people unhappy with the DVR continue to pay for it. :rolleyes:

I like the DVR a lot..I just want it to work reliably, and not need to be unplugged every few days, and replaced every few months. I guess that is too much to ask. I have 3 friends with DISH DVR service, and none of them have the issues that Comcast boxes have. Everyone I know here in Indy with Comcast boxes has similar issues to mine. When the satellite companies can provide my local HD channels later this year, I am going to be saying goodbye to Comcast.

I am curious as to how many people are still having this problem, and what they are doing about it. I am forced to use the component connection - which leaves my DVD high and dry.

I still have the problem. I am still using my HDMI, but I have to power cycle the DVR everytime I turn on the TV. If it is recording when I turn on the TV, I can just unplug and replug the HDMI cable and it works from then on.

At 11:00 last night, before bed, I did a DVR Authorization and Factory Full Reset (following instructions on Wikibooks). This morning, there was no time shown on the box -- only the channel.

1) Did you watch the display while doing the full reset, to make sure the download started (after the "n dl", you get the circling lights)?

2) Following the reset(s), have you tried power cycling the box? Unplug the box, press the POWER button on the front of the box to discharge any remaining power in the system, wait ~30 seconds to be safe, and plug it back in. Give it a little bit of time to get set, then turn it on and see what you get.

3) The time/channel display is a configurable setting. The default is channel only, so you have to go into the "Cable Box Settings" menu and change it. The fact that it changed the setting is a sign your box reloaded at least some of the software.

1) Did you watch the display while doing the full reset, to make sure the download started (after the "n dl", you get the circling lights)?

When I did the full reset, the lights were definitely circling.

2) Following the reset(s), have you tried power cycling the box? Unplug the box, press the POWER button on the front of the box to discharge any remaining power in the system, wait ~30 seconds to be safe, and plug it back in. Give it a little bit of time to get set, then turn it on and see what you get.

I did not try power cycling the box -- I'll try that when I get home from work today.

3) The time/channel display is a configurable setting. The default is channel only, so you have to go into the "Cable Box Settings" menu and change it. The fact that it changed the setting is a sign your box reloaded at least some of the software.

The problem I had is that the "menu" button didn't work, so I couldn't access the "settings" menu -- maybe I didn't give it enough time to load and situate itself. I figured 6 hours would be enough...maybe not...

Definitely a national issue - and last night if you called the 888 number with questions - that had a pre-recorded message indicating a system wide problem with DVRs - basically that they were not working

Later I talked to the service rep who confirmed the problems in the last few weeks, and particularly last night - related to new software being introduced

Now that said, both the older and newer (HD 2 tuners in my case) Comcast provided Motorola DVRs can be a bit quirky, although quite outstanding when they run well

Best thing is to have is a dedicated on/off (surge strip) just for the DVR - then you can reset easily as needed w/o shutting one's entire TV/projector system down

By the way that new GOLF hI DEF channel not only looks excellent in HD on a mega-screen - but has far better than normal sound with the commentary in the left channel and player/club sound effects on the right channel

By the way that new GOLF hI DEF channel not only looks excellent in HD on a mega-screen - but has far better than normal sound with the commentary in the left channel and player/club sound effects on the right channel
That actually sounds like a problem commentary should not be in just the left channel. If that is the case something is wrong somewhere.

When the fix was applied for the DVR problem, did anyone lose all of their recorded shows? My box updated correctly, but my parents called last night and told me they lost all of their saved recordings and all of their scheduled recordings?

Anyone else have this problem?
The new software seems to have an issue with over-aggressive reformatting. Basically, on a reboot, it checks for any problems. If it thinks the DVR data is bad, it wipes it out. I think this may be an overreaction to the 12/31/89 recording issue the old software had (which I think was caused by the recording list getting out of sync with the actual recordings).

........
I have basic service with HD and no DVR. Comcast refuses to give me a HD-DVR unless I upgrade to their digital package, which I don't want to - I am the ABC, NBS, PBS kind of a guy.

Sign up for the cheapest digital package, get a 3416 or 6416, drop the digital package and keep the DVR. It worked for me last year. (You still have to pay the rental, of course!) :D

By the way that new GOLF hI DEF channel not only looks excellent in HD on a mega-screen - but has far better than normal sound with the commentary in the left channel and player/club sound effects on the right channel
That is indeed a problem that seemed to crop up this week. In previous weeks, the commentary came from the center channel, as one would expect. In the match play event, the sound is just plain weird.

Got home, did a power cycle.

'Eb 09' popped up, and then the 'dl' with the marching ant.

After about 20 minutes, I got 'EF' then 'FP' then 4 horizontal lines.

The box reset, and the LED display is currently black but the fan is on inside.

I'm waiting for the clock to come on, with fingers crossed.

No doubt you are correct about it being a defect on that HD Golf Channel

What's strange is that the unintended effects actually gave alot more realism to the overall play

Meanwhile my Comcast DVRs are still not working properly - as its been for several days

Got home, did a power cycle.

'Eb 09' popped up, and then the 'dl' with the marching ant.

Eb 09 indicates an error downloading the software (http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR/Boot_Error_Codes), hence the re-download.

I'm waiting for the clock to come on, with fingers crossed.
I don't recall that my box came back on following a reset. Because of the clock/channel display setting, you won't see the clock when the box is off. Try turning it on and see what's going on. If it doesn't look like all is well, power cycle the box like I mentioned. Sometimes it needs a power cycle following a reset of the software. Hopefully it was a good download this time, and it won't throw you into an infinite loop re-downloading it.

Hey Guys, sorry for this one , I know the muting issue has been covered in this thread a million times. But I need help on this one, my 6412 audio locked up. I can get the audio to work through the optical out through my receiver but the line level rca jacks direct to my tv get no audio. This is a new problem. I have had this box hooked up the same way for several years. I tried power unplugging, I tried going to the dvr and playing a recorded show, I even tried playing On-Demand ....No luck.
Any quick remedies?

I just got my 6412 and have not been able to figure out how to back track in the On Demand menu. If I go to say, HD Programs, Sports, Versus...how do I go back to Sports without having to start from the beginning On Demand screen?

Thanks!

I just got my 6412 and have not been able to figure out how to back track in the On Demand menu. If I go to say, HD Programs, Sports, Versus...how do I go back to Sports without having to start from the beginning On Demand screen?

Thanks!

push the "last" key to go back 1 menu or cmd

I just got my 6412 and have not been able to figure out how to back track in the On Demand menu. If I go to say, HD Programs, Sports, Versus...how do I go back to Sports without having to start from the beginning On Demand screen?

Thanks!

Did you try the "Last" key?


Edit: Oops! There's an echo here! :eek:

Yeah, it does. You choose to interpret those words in a specific way to make the assertion untrue, but interpreted the way those words were clearly intended, what they're saying is absolutely 100% true. When I want to record something, I hit guide, and then click on the program, and select the record icon. Easy. No timer. One step.

Interesting. I have to check the record button, then select 'record' then hit enter on the 'check' dialog, then--as I've got all of BSG season 3 on it--it asks about the 'DVR Full' dialog. And, depending on whether or not it feels like accepting remote signals, this whole process may take a while.
For those of us complaining, I think we have a 'perfect storm'. Bad hardware from Motorola, lame guide data from iGuide, and lackadaisical support from Comcast. As those of us on the SF comcast thread note: It's Comcastic :D

Saving up for a S3 TiVo--though wish it had FW out.

Any suggestions as to what else I can try to get this box operational again? Call Comcast and get a different tech to do it.

Saving up for a S3 TiVoAnd that's really my point: If you have lots of money to spend, there is better hardware out there. The Motorola DVRs are definitely not the high-end option in the marketplace -- it's for the majority of folks who don't have a lot of extra money to spend on a DVR. Folks who buy the TiVo S3 count on the fact that they're getting a better product for all that money they're spending for it, and they are. (Just be aware that a very small percentage of folks never get the TiVo S3 working with digital cable, though a recent TiVo service update may or may not have resolved that problem.)

OK -- Last post, hopefully, for a while.

I tried the power-cycle, tried the full HDD reset. Nothing worked. My box still operated only as a normal cable box -- no digital channels, no DVR, no Guide.

I swapped it out this morning for another 5412. Signs all over the Branford, CT center, advising that there was a shortage of DVR and HD boxes and they would be unable to exchange or replace boxes for at least 2 weeks.

When they pulled my account, they saw that I had replaced 4 boxes in the last year -- they gave me a "new" one.

It's downloading program data now. We'll see how long it lasts.

By the way -- tech on the phone last night was unaware of when Tivo would be available or whether it would be in the Connecticut market.

Just got the 6412.

Are there any complilations of modifications or customizations possible with the 6412? For example any tricks to transfer recordings to HDD on local network? What about audio levels of OnDemand menus section? Has anyone figured a way to normalize the OnDemand Menu audio? Just curious if anyone has any cool tweaks? If so, let's hear about them....

Thanks!

Check out the information in the Wikibook (link in my .sig below).

Firewire is supported, and is the only way to get the data off the drive. There are links for that, although Firewire support is rather flakey and often has odd effects on the box when active.

You cannot alter audio on a per-channel basis. If you use the analog audio outputs, there aer some options to turn on compression that will help, but these do not affect the digital audio outputs.

If you dig through the user menus, you can change the color of your I-Guide.

OK. Add my voice to those who have had their share of problems with the 6412. I just got it a few days ago. I started having problems with the unit locking-up today. I have no idea what the cause is. The HDD was making a racket the times it was locked up. I know there have been discussions on this topic, but does anyone know what might be up with this? What should I do when the unit locks up? Do I have to just unplug it? (which is what I have been doing). How do you reboot? Just plug it back in?

If anyone has any suggestions about what may be the cause, how I might fix the issue, or how to recover from a lock-up, please fill me in.

Thanks!

If your hard drive is "making a racket", you've gotten a lemon. Get it replaced.

I swapped it out this morning for another 5412. Signs all over the Branford, CT center, advising that there was a shortage of DVR and HD boxes and they would be unable to exchange or replace boxes for at least 2 weeks.

The people over at the Branford office have issues. I went there, saw the sign, went home, called Comcast, they talked me into a DVR and said to go back and ask for a DVR because they were only out of HGTV boxes, I went back, they said they're out of those too, went home, called Comcast again; then they said huh? We'll send out a tech with a box tomorrow if you want to pay the install fee. I said yes because I had enough BS. Long story short, I'm up and running with a few glitches but everything seems to be settled and working...

I have the new 6416 box. Worked perfect for about 10 days, then the weirdness began anew. The latest glitch is 'stuttering' video. When things move it looks like it's dropping some frames at times. Very annoying. I have read others have had the same issue on here, but have not seen a definitive cause or cure. Any input is appreciated.

My 6416 also periodically goes into the stuttering mode too, but only on 1080i channels! I've never seen it happen on 720p channels like ESPN HD or Fox HD.

Here's the temporary fix that always works for me. Turn off cable box, press menu to bring up a white config scrren. Go to where it says 1080i, change it to another resolution and shut off again. Turn box back on and watch for a minute or so. Repeat the above & change back to 1080i. That should stop it!

There is clearly a Moto Box problem here with 1080i channels. Why is it intermittent? That is the 6 million dollar question!

I've had Comcast techs galore out to try & solve this, and none can.

I wonder if it has to do with recording two 1080i streams while playing back a third.

I wonder if it has to do with recording two 1080i streams while playing back a third.

The hardware should be perfectly capable of this - its a cinch, given the specs. Not a valid 'excuse' :p

Not an excuse, but perhaps an explanation. It isn't clear that the hardware is consistently capable of this, and given that this is the low-end HD DVR in the marketplace, that's not surprising.

My 6416 also periodically goes into the stuttering mode too, but only on 1080i channels! I've never seen it happen on 720p channels like ESPN HD or Fox HD.

Here's the temporary fix that always works for me. Turn off cable box, press menu to bring up a white config scrren. Go to where it says 1080i, change it to another resolution and shut off again. Turn box back on and watch for a minute or so. Repeat the above & change back to 1080i. That should stop it!

There is clearly a Moto Box problem here with 1080i channels. Why is it intermittent? That is the 6 million dollar question!

I've had Comcast techs galore out to try & solve this, and none can.

Thanks, I will give that a try. Strange thing is my original box with DVI output never once had the stutter issue. I tried 3 HDMI 6412 boxes last fall on a 2nd tv and they all stuttered. I gave up on that idea. Now that I had to replace the original box the new 6416 stutters as well..ugh. Also, it was stuttering on an HD on Demand show off Starz Saturday night. I wonder what the native resolution of Starz HD on Demand is? Also, when you do the 720 and back to 1080 trick, how long does it seem to fix the issue?

Not an excuse, but perhaps an explanation. It isn't clear that the hardware is consistently capable of this, and given that this is the low-end HD DVR in the marketplace, that's not surprising.

However, and I'm merely (loosely) quoting scanpa and a few other Comcast-in-the-know folks, this 6412/3412 family of DVRs uses the same processor/memory config as the S3 TiVo. The S3 TiVo manages just fine, ergo the flaw lies in the software implementation (not the hardware - unless Moto made a HUGE hardware confiration snafu/bottleneck somewhere) :)

Thanks, I will give that a try. Strange thing is my original box with DVI output never once had the stutter issue. I tried 3 HDMI 6412 boxes last fall on a 2nd tv and they all stuttered. I gave up on that idea. Now that I had to replace the original box the new 6416 stutters as well..ugh. Also, it was stuttering on an HD on Demand show off Starz Saturday night. I wonder what the native resolution of Starz HD on Demand is? Also, when you do the 720 and back to 1080 trick, how long does it seem to fix the issue?

I don't know about the Starz HD On Demand, but my S3 TiVo info screen confirms that almost EVERY HD channel is 1080i - except, and I'm quoting from memory, ESPN, ABC, ESPN2, FOX and a couple of others that are 720p holdouts.

No idea about this stuttering prevention trick - my 6412 is set to 1080i fixed and works reasonably fine (with rare, but present stutters) with my HDTV.

Not an excuse, but perhaps an explanation. It isn't clear that the hardware is consistently capable of this, and given that this is the low-end HD DVR in the marketplace, that's not surprising.

Given all the other problems with these, it's not surprising. The fact that it is a low-end HD DVR has no bearing since Comcast and Motorola claim it can record 2 HD programs while watching a third recorded HD show.

since Comcast and Motorola claim it can record 2 HD programs while watching a third recorded HD show.

Not so much a "claim" as it is an established fact. I routinely do this each week.

Thanks, I will give that a try. Strange thing is my original box with DVI output never once had the stutter issue. I tried 3 HDMI 6412 boxes last fall on a 2nd tv and they all stuttered. I gave up on that idea. Now that I had to replace the original box the new 6416 stutters as well..ugh. Also, it was stuttering on an HD on Demand show off Starz Saturday night. I wonder what the native resolution of Starz HD on Demand is? Also, when you do the 720 and back to 1080 trick, how long does it seem to fix the issue?

Interesting to Note about video stutter

The stuttering is probably due to an HDMI problem in the Moto box. My TV has an IEEE 1994 (Firewire) input, If the Moto box is stuttering, switching to IEEE 1994 fixes the stuttering and also the audio synch.

Not so much a "claim" as it is an established fact. I routinely do this each week.So do I. No problem at all. And it's quite a useful feature.

The fact that it is a low-end HD DVR has no bearing since Comcast and Motorola claim it can record 2 HD programs while watching a third recorded HD show.And it does. :rolleyes: The point is that, since it is a low-end HD DVR (which DOES have "bearing"), it makes sense that it isn't as consistent as the TiVo Series 3. We get what we pay for.

FYI: I lost a ton of Series Recordings after this latest round of problems with my 6412...Even though they were still set in the Series Priority Menu, they were not showing up on the Guide.

You had to delete the original series recording and re-create the series recording from scratch

Whats weird is it only happened to SOME of them...not all...which makes it a TOTAL PITA to try to figure out which shows need to be redone

Interesting to Note about video stutter

The stuttering is probably due to an HDMI problem in the Moto box. My TV has an IEEE 1994 (Firewire) input, If the Moto box is stuttering, switching to IEEE 1994 fixes the stuttering and also the audio synch.

I don't have firewire input, but could try using component video cables instead of HDMI the next time it acts up. I don't think component loses much video quality vs HDMI anyway. What really irks me is that Comcast appears to be clueless about this issue, or any way to resolve it!

FYI:I lost a ton of Series Recordings after this latest round of problems with my 6412...Even though they were still set in the Series Priority Menu, they were not showing up on the Guide.

You had to delete the original series recording and re-create the series recording from scratch

Whats weird is it only happened to SOME of them...not all...which makes it a TOTAL PITA to try to figure out which shows need to be redone

yeah i lost scrubs last week, but so far thats the only thing it hasnt recorded...

FYI: I lost a ton of Series Recordings after this latest round of problems with my 6412...Even though they were still set in the Series Priority Menu, they were not showing up on the Guide.

You had to delete the original series recording and re-create the series recording from scratch

Whats weird is it only happened to SOME of them...not all...which makes it a TOTAL PITA to try to figure out which shows need to be redone
I've gotten into the habit of writing down my Series list and manual recordings occasionally, just in case.

The series recordings actually use some form of ID code to identify a program. If that ID code changed or becomes corrupted, the series recording may not work.

It could also stop working if a channel is renamed, as it appears to use the channel name, and not the number, if you tell it to only work on the specified channel. One way to verify that would be to change the option to find the program on any channel and see if it finds anything.

Interesting to Note about video stutter

The stuttering is probably due to an HDMI problem in the Moto box. My TV has an IEEE 1994 (Firewire) input, If the Moto box is stuttering, switching to IEEE 1994 fixes the stuttering and also the audio synch.
Indeed. I had a 6412/PII that worked great until something happened after the 16.20 F/W upgrade.

Now I have the 3416 and I get the suttering (only on the 1080i channels). I'm also using 1080i fixed output over a DVI cable w/ HDMI/DVI adapter.

As listed here (http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR/Bugs#The_picture_and.2For_sound_may_freeze_or_stutter.2C_par ticularly_on_HD_channels), I shut off the box and hit Menu to access the USER SETTINGS menu. I switch the output from DVI to HDMI, and then switch it back immediately. It seems to reset the output, or maybe resync the HDCP.

The fix works for me until I shut off the box. Hence, I now leave the box on 24/7 (didn't used to have to).

I had stuttering problem too. I have 6412/III. But I notice that the stutter is pretty much gone after around 11pm, which let me to believe it might not be the DVR's problem, but bandwidth bottleneck instead, when a lot of people are watching at one time. If so, then there's nothing we can do until timewarner fix their pipe.

Another problem I had is, when I am watching a recorded show, the sound would go out after a few seconds, and the only way to bring it back is to pause/forward/rewind and re-play it. Why is this happening? Any idea?

Thanks!

Oh, here's my box info:

S/W ver: 71.44 - 1203
Firmware: 12.31