What's up all,
I am a newb when it comes to the comcast DVR. Just got my dual tuner box installed last Friday. I am in the boston area. Sorry for all of the questions below.
I read some of the posts here and there is a lot of talk about the 6412..

-How do I tell which box I have? The only thing I know is that it is a Motorolla box.

-I did notice though that the analog signal is worse than before. No way to fix that, huh?

-There is mention of a "new" remote...How do I tell if I have it?

-I read up on the "iGuide", and it mentioned that it will adjust the time of the show recording...Well I recorded the Simpsons the other night and the got cut off, because one of the shows before it (probably football) ran over it's time??? I guess the best way to record something is to do the manual scheduling, so you can record a couple minutes past the end time??

-Is there any way to download a recording to your PC to burn on to a DVD or VCD?

-Is anyone out there running the box with a Sammy DLP, using the DVI input? Can you change the 4:3 shows to stretch mode? I read someone elses post that they could not do that on their Pioneer Elite TV. Just wanna know before I go out and buy the DVI cable and hook everything up.

THANKS VERY MUCH IN ADVANCE!

Originally posted by DingoAce10
How do I tell which box I have? The only thing I know is that it is a Motorolla box.
Look at the underside of the box

Originally posted by DingoAce10
Is there any way to download a recording to your PC to burn on to a DVD or VCD?

First this (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=403695), then this (http://www.divx-digest.com/articles/dtv2avi.html), converting to either MPEG1 (VCD) or MPEG2 (DVD) rather than DiVx as described. It's not for the faint of heart or the slow of processor speed. Getting a HDTV file to the PC is a snap, but conversion is very, very slow and there are many steps.

Comcast NJ - Union/Verona

I came across this article. It talks about sharing and pooling video from STB to STB. Or in other words, multi room viewing. Something Tivo and ReplayTV do currently but we can't currently do with the 6412.

http://www.cableworld.com/ct/archives/1204/1204_networkingthedigital.htm

I'm sorry it doesn't have relevance to the current 6412 and i-Guide but it is something that I (and probably most of us in this forum) are excited to see coming our way (hopefully) in the not so distant future.

In answer to a previous question, all channels are outputting audio through my optical audio setup.

Has anyone else noticed a marked improvement in analog PQ overnight? Last night at about 2:45 AM my box acted as if the power had gone out. It came back up immediately and started reloading the guide. I'm away from it now, but I believe my SW is 71.44-1203 and my FW is 09.12. I hadn't written down what they were before, but this sounds about right.

I thought it was the much-anticipated transfer to mirrored-digital, but it's not. There is still a touch of analog grain, and my Power+OK diagnostic menu still lists the analog channels as being "Analog."

Might be a fluke or might be temporary (knowing my luck) signal improvement in my neighborhood, but I wanted to see if anyone else had a similar experience.

Originally posted by frankz1
Last night at about 2:45 AM my box acted as if the power had gone out. It came back up immediately and started reloading the guide. I'm away from it now, but I believe my SW is 71.44-1203 and my FW is 09.12. I hadn't written down what they were before, but this sounds about right.

I thought it was the much-anticipated transfer to mirrored-digital, but it's not. There is still a touch of analog grain, and my Power+OK diagnostic menu still lists the analog channels as being "Analog."

Might be a fluke or might be temporary (knowing my luck) signal improvement in my neighborhood, but I wanted to see if anyone else had a similar experience. Comcast NJ - Union/Verona

What you experienced last night was the deployment of the i-Guide in your area to the other Digital STB's. The current SW is 71.44-1203 and the current FW is 09.12.

Do you have another STB that is not a 6208 or a 6412? To confirm, it should now have the i-Guide on it.

We have to wait till January in NJ to get the i-Guide on the remaining STB's.

Only got to page 31, and things seemed to be repeating. Didn't see my issue yet so here goes.

When I change my audio setting to High compression sometimes the audio will go out for a second or two while I'm watching. If I put it back on stereo it hasn't done it again. wtf? Thanks!

Edit: oh yes. I am connected through the optical audio out to my receiver. I did not have this problem with my 6208.

Btw, my box is MUCH quieter (except for occasional head clicking) and MUCH better looking PQ wise. I love the IGuide too.

Originally posted by Solarius
Only got to page 31, and things seemed to be repeating. Didn't see my issue yet so here goes.

When I change my audio setting to High compression sometimes the audio will go out for a second or two while I'm watching. If I put it back on stereo it hasn't done it again. wtf? Thanks!

Edit: oh yes. I am connected through the optical audio out to my receiver. I did not have this problem with my 6208.

Btw, my box is MUCH quieter (except for occasional head clicking) and MUCH better looking PQ wise. I love the IGuide too. It was discussed here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/printpost.php?postid=4660196). It only affects analog audio.

Originally posted by tall1
It was discussed here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/printpost.php?postid=4660196). It only affects analog audio.

I'll have to check my menus, but I noticed some sound drop out while watching a recording of DiscoveryHD from last night... That is definately not analog.

AVS Forum - a wealth of information...

Originally posted by Kaiser-Soze
I'll have to check my menus, but I noticed some sound drop out while watching a recording of DiscoveryHD from last night... That is definately not analog.
I believe he's referring to the analog outputs (L/R), not analog source material.

Originally posted by DingoAce10

-There is mention of a "new" remote...How do I tell if I have it?

-I read up on the "iGuide", and it mentioned that it will adjust the time of the show recording...Well I recorded the Simpsons the other night and the got cut off, because one of the shows before it (probably football) ran over it's time??? I guess the best way to record something is to do the manual scheduling, so you can record a couple minutes past the end time??


New remote is black bottom, silver top and has a SWAP (amungst others) at the very very bottom of the remote.

Fox hasn't been bumping the schedules as they have in years past. (I'm guessing that the local affiliates made a fuss because of the 10pm news) Although you cannot change the time of the box to match one network or another, you can pad the record times to start a few minutes before and/or a few after. But if you want to record 2 shows back to back, its kinda tough! Try a few shows and report back what you find...

this is the remote that came with my 6412
http://mywebpages.comcast.net/joereich3/Images/remote.jpg

In Demver they just rolled out the very first DVR. Of cource it's the 6412. The NEW remote that we have is this one. The 30 skip program that everyone has talked about does not work on this remote. :(

http://icxglobal.livecontent.e-commatrix.com/en/products/cable/enterprise_family/dct_6412.php

Originally posted by DingoAce10

-Is anyone out there running the box with a Sammy DLP, using the DVI input? Can you change the 4:3 shows to stretch mode? I read someone elses post that they could not do that on their Pioneer Elite TV. Just wanna know before I go out and buy the DVI cable and hook everything up.

THANKS VERY MUCH IN ADVANCE! [/B]

I have run the 6412 to my SamDLP via DVI, although I'm now running it through component.

To change the 4:3 settings, you need to do the following:

1) turn off your DVR
2) press and hold the 'menu' button (this isn't as simple as it sounds, you kind of have to play around with the timing to get it right). A grey, text-only menu will appear.
3) adjust the 4:3 setting here. There are 3 modes... 2 of them cause all 4:3 shows to be stretched, and the other one (aptly called 'off') is the one I use because I don't like the goofy-looking stretched out and cut off 4:3 shows.

I stopped using the DVI hookup because, at least to my inexperienced eye, I can't really tell the difference with most of the hd stuff I watch. I save the DVI for my DVD player -- one downside to this TV is only one DVI input. Also, I don't think any of the iGuide menus show up using DVI.

Hope that helps.

So, I got the 6412 about three days ago. Firmware 09.12. S/W ver. 71.44 -1203

I use to have a 6200 and had no problem dumping to the mits 1100u. But now, the mits won't recognized the firewire from the 6412. I am using the same firewire cable that worked for the 6200 and 1100u. The 1100u connect fine by firewire to the 3410. The hard drive is fillin up fast and I can't dump.

Any suggestions?

try turning your 6412 OFF while you prep the tape in the dvhs deck.

then when it's all set to record, then turn on the 6412 and see if that works.

I have my GWII hooked up using DVI. The iGuide shows up just fine.

I have the same remote Joe R has which is the picture of the Silver Remote 4 or 5 threads up. It does not have a swap button. Does anyone have a picture of the remote that does. Gonna call Comcast today, had the box put in Sat. Set up a recording and it didn't work. Shut the box off and powered it back on and went down to use Sunday. The pause function worked cause I could pause live TV, it didn't work on Saturday. Set up another recording, went back last night and the box powered itself down I'm guessing cause I did not power it off the night before. I knew right away cause the channel number wasn't lit when I went downstairs. No recording and it woudln't pause live TV and the MY DVR key did nothing. Left it on last night and before work the channel light was still on so it didn't power itself down but I didn't have a chance to fire the projector and see if it could pause live TV. Guessing the box may be bad, the first one they put in Sat was dead and they called another tech who brought this one over so at least I could watch TV.

I use a Sammy HLP5063 with DVI from a 6412. On mine you can adjust the aspect ratio for each input and it will remember the setting.

By all means try the menu settings sseres mentions. Your conclusions may be different, but I found after a lot of experimentation that setting the output to 720p (the Sammy's native resolution,) gave me a duller and less detailed image than a 1080i output from the Moto.

That's because most of the HD content is 1080i, and the Sammy does a much better job of downscaling than the Moto. The only time I use the 720p output is for Monday Night Football, which is broadcast in 720p (as are ESPN HD and Fox HD.)

Personally, I hate looking at stretched 4:3, and there is no reason to stretch anything on a DLP because there is no risk of burn-in. The good news is you can have it either way. There is a "4:3 override" setting in the moto menu.

"Off" gives you undistorted 4:3 with pillarboxes, and the SD is output at the same resolution as the HD (thought it doesn't look any better that way.) 480i does NOT work over DVI because the Sammy will only accept progressive signals over DVI or HDMI.

If you do want stretched 4:3, setting the override to 480p will let you do that with the TV settings, but there will be a slight penalty in image quality because the deinterlacer in the Moto is not as good as the Faroudja chip in the Sammy.

If you want to improve the analog SD quality, the best way is to split the cable and run half to the Moto and half to the antenna input on the Sammy. Use the Sammy's antenna input to tune the analog channels. The Moto boxes do OK on digital channels, but show a lot of noise on the analogs.

(Turning the sharpness all the way down to zero on the Sammy helps, too. Otherwise you are merely amplifying the flaws in the cable feed.)

Originally posted by Couch Patato
In Demver they just rolled out the very first DVR. Of cource it's the 6412. The NEW remote that we have is this one. The 30 skip program that everyone has talked about does not work on this remote. :(

http://icxglobal.livecontent.e-commatrix.com/en/products/cable/enterprise_family/dct_6412.php

Yeah mine came with one like that too here in Denver. What I did was stop by my local Comcast office and get a remote more like (though not exactly like) the one Joe pictured. With that one because it has a Setup button I was able to use the codes mentioned elsewhere in this thread to program Swap/Replay/30 sec skip into it. Then I just used the learning feature on my cheap universal remote to grab the 30 sec skip feature off of the silver one.

Anybody have a source for additional remote setup device codes for the Comcast remotes? I have a Sherwood Newcastle Preamp and there is no code in the remote manual. I tried the Search function on the remote with no luck. I would be happy if I could control volume only.

Thanks,
JMorton

Originally posted by BullittMustang
If it mutes the tv instead of the cable box then follow these steps..


1. Press the cable button

2. Press and hold setup until it blinks twice then let go

3. Press 994

4. Press setup and release

5. Press 00141

6. Press the mute button

Thanks Bullitt that did work!!:D

Sorry if this was already addressed. I paged through this thread & did a search on this thread to no avail.

Yesterday I had my new DVR setup (Comcast Moto 6412), apparently it already has the new iGuide, but I'm having real trouble with it & customer service says my box is fine when they ping it.

It took about 1-2 hours to populate the guide with the current listings(understandable), but it never completly filled it in. It appears that daily shows (news broadcasts, soaps, game shows) populate correctly, but weekly broadcasts (King of Queens, CSI, Lost, etc) still show TBA. I left the unit on overnight (although apparently this shouldn't be necessary) hoping that it would finish downloading listings, but when I checked this morning, some listings that showed up before were now showing TBA.

Then as I was watching the news this morning before work, the screen froze a couple of times (problems with the buffer?) & i had to change the channel & then back to get it to go again. Next the box powered itself off twice within a half hour & the guide had to repopulate from scratch. I still don't have listings for tonights shows (I manually set up the recording times so I wouldn't miss them, but I'd like to be able to set series recordings.).

Has anyone else seen this? I talked to a tech & he had me unplug the unit, but this has not fixed the trouble.

jasahl: sounds like you got a box that has a defective power supply...this was reported elsewhere in the forums. Call comcast and get a new box. The reason your guide wasn't fully populated this morning is because it probably power cycled during the night and lost the guide info. The recordings you set up will record as scheduled even if the guide info is lost.

Thanks sseres and wittangamo! That definitely made up my mind for the DVI! I had already set all of the setting with the cable box(with power off)..Did that right after the tech left :-) Right now I have it at 1080i and 4:3 override (I think) is at 480p. No sense in spending the $50 to $100 for the DVI cable and going through the hassle of unplugging things for really no upgrade.

For anyone else that might know:
Been reading a bunch of this thread(but there is LOTS), and read a couple things about the new remote and all...Found out I DO have the "new" remote...
Now if the PIP is not activated, what good is the swap button(which does work)? I know you can switch between the tuners, but when will that come in handy if the PIP is not activated?
And sorry...what is this "mute" problem I am reading so much about, but can't find the original post for the problem. I see the solution all over the place :-)

Thanks very much in advance!!

Originally posted by DingoAce10
Now if the PIP is not activated, what good is the swap button(which does work)? I know you can switch between the tuners, but when will that come in handy if the PIP is not activated?

If you're recording a show on one tuner, hit "Swap" to change to the second tuner and view other things live. Or, you can be watching a show live on one tuner (a game for example), pause it, hit swap to tune to another game. Then switch back and forth to have full DVR functions on both games, pausing and FF through commercials to the delight of you, your friends, your family and your neighbors.

You can swap between tuners, so say, you are on a tuner that started to record a program, and you want to go watch something else, and save this recorded show for later. If you SWAP, you go to the new tuner.

Swap is important if you want to watch one program at the same time you are recording something else. Or if you want to watch two ballgames at the same time (pausing one, then swapping to the other, fast forwarding through commercials, pausing, swapping back, etc.) -- you might see almost everything, given enough commercials.

edit: sorry for the duplication. You guys must be fast typists!

I ran into the mute issue in an embarrassing way. I was demoing my set-up to my father-in-law, and wanted to show him how we could watch CSI from the beginning, and skip commercials even though the show had started (it had been set up as a scheduled recording). Couldn't figure out what happened to save my life!
Well, if the box is off, then starts up to record, it mutes itself---why, I have no idea. The only way to get it to un-mute is to do the mute button re-map, unless you just want to wait until the scheduled recording stops.

Originally posted by DingoAce10
Thanks sseres and wittangamo! That definitely made up my mind for the DVI! I had already set all of the setting with the cable box(with power off)..Did that right after the tech left :-) Right now I have it at 1080i and 4:3 override (I think) is at 480p. No sense in spending the $50 to $100 for the DVI cable and going through the hassle of unplugging things for really no upgrade. I'd still give this a shot...you can get DVI cables online for under $20. Try DVI and decide for yourself.

Originally posted by DingoAce10

Now if the PIP is not activated, what good is the swap button(which does work)? Well, let's say you were watching the Super Bowl halftime show last January and you suddenly realized how captivating Janet Jackson is and you wanted to preserve this performance forever, you would push the record button which would begin recording what is in the buffer (approx. 15 minutes). Then your wife enters the room so you decide suddenly you want to tune to 7th Heaven on the WB, pushing the "swap" button will allow you to change the channel without disrupting the JJ recording. The inverse would be true if you were recording 7th Heaven (a scheduled recording uses the tuner you are not currently watching live) and watching the Super Bowl, your wife enters the room and it seems like a good time to check how things are progessing on 7th Heaven, pushing "swap" will switch tuners so you can monitor what is being recorded.

DOH!!! So I think I might have screwed up a recording that my wife was doing...She was recording something, I turned on the TV, and swicthed the channel, assuming that it would automatically switch to the other tuner and everything would be ok...I assume from what everyone is saying, that this is NOT true...and I have to swap to the other tuner first and then start switching channels?
But when I schedule a recording in the guide, it starts recording at the specified time and I just go about my regular tv watching on another channel...I assume then, when the recording starts, that if it is not on the correct channel it automatically uses the other tuner?
Did it Sunday night...Recorded the Simpsons, watched Final episode of Surviver...Everything went smoothly(except that the end of the Simpsons got cut off)

OH so that is the "mute" problem..Ok, I have run into that...I have the TM MX-500 as my main remote(mute button is progammed for reciever)....So Just picked up the the cable remote and "unmuted" it.

Thanks again in advance!

Originally posted by DingoAce10
DOH!!! So I think I might have screwed up a recording that my wife was doing...She was recording something, I turned on the TV, and swicthed the channel, assuming that it would automatically switch to the other tuner and everything would be ok...I assume from what everyone is saying, that this is NOT true...and I have to swap to the other tuner first and then start switching channels?

No offense by this, but didn't Comcast leave you a packet with documentation for your services and equipment. Specifically, "Using Your Built-In Digital Video Recorder"? If not, they should have and you should request it.

Originally posted by DingoAce10
DOH!!! So I think I might have screwed up a recording that my wife was doing...She was recording something, I turned on the TV, and swicthed the channel, assuming that it would automatically switch to the other tuner and everything would be ok...I assume from what everyone is saying, that this is NOT true...and I have to swap to the other tuner first and then start switching channels?
But when I schedule a recording in the guide, it starts recording at the specified time and I just go about my regular tv watching on another channel...I assume then, when the recording starts, that if it is not on the correct channel it automatically uses the other tuner?
Did it Sunday night...Recorded the Simpsons, watched Final episode of Surviver...Everything went smoothly(except that the end of the Simpsons got cut off)

OH so that is the "mute" problem..Ok, I have run into that...I have the TM MX-500 as my main remote(mute button is progammed for reciever)....So Just picked up the the cable remote and "unmuted" it.

Thanks again in advance!

It does automatically use the other tuner if you have scheduled a recording and you're watching something else. Also, it will give you a warning that changing the channel will stop the recording if you are on the same tuner so your wife's show is probably okay.

P.S> they didn't leave any documentation with my box, but I probably wouldn't have read it anyway.

Thanks frankz1 and rollerfink!
Nope, no documentation...Just a little 2 page thing that was like a quick reference guide.

rollerfink, I have seen that message popup, when I accidently tried turning off the box while the recording was happening...But did NOT get that message when I changed the channel...So everything should be ok...

Thanks for the help!
I love the box, SO much better that the VCR...but wish there was an easy way to download the recordings to my PC or USB hdd! Would love to keep the Red Sox documentary that I recorded on HBO the other day. I got the instructions from someone else, but seems VERY time consuming!

Originally posted by frankz1
If you're recording a show on one tuner, hit "Swap" to change to the second tuner and view other things live. Or, you can be watching a show live on one tuner (a game for example), pause it, hit swap to tune to another game. Then switch back and forth to have full DVR functions on both games, pausing and FF through commercials to the delight of you, your friends, your family and your neighbors.

If you only pause it on the first game (first tuner) for say 5 minutes, then go back. And then you fast forward through the first set of commericials (say 5 minutes worth) -- aren't you then caught up to live, so you then won't be able to fast forward through ALL the rest of the commercials?

In other words, how can you fast forward through commericals, unless you are behind the actual broadcast by at least 30 minutes or so?

Originally posted by jasahl
Yesterday I had my new DVR setup (Comcast Moto 6412), apparently it already has the new iGuide, but I'm having real trouble with it & customer service says my box is fine when they ping it.

It took about 1-2 hours to populate the guide with the current listings(understandable), but it never completly filled it in. It appears that daily shows (news broadcasts, soaps, game shows) populate correctly, but weekly broadcasts (King of Queens, CSI, Lost, etc) still show TBA. I left the unit on overnight (although apparently this shouldn't be necessary) hoping that it would finish downloading listings, but when I checked this morning, some listings that showed up before were now showing TBA.

Then as I was watching the news this morning before work, the screen froze a couple of times (problems with the buffer?) & i had to change the channel & then back to get it to go again. Next the box powered itself off twice within a half hour & the guide had to repopulate from scratch. I still don't have listings for tonights shows (I manually set up the recording times so I wouldn't miss them, but I'd like to be able to set series recordings.).

Has anyone else seen this? I talked to a tech & he had me unplug the unit, but this has not fixed the trouble.

Originally posted by tall1
jasahl: sounds like you got a box that has a defective power supply...this was reported elsewhere in the forums. Call comcast and get a new box. The reason your guide wasn't fully populated this morning is because it probably power cycled during the night and lost the guide info. The recordings you set up will record as scheduled even if the guide info is lost.

I don't think it power cycled because it was still on the same channel in the morning as where I left it & when power is disconnected from the box, it automatically starts on channel 9.

Originally posted by caesar1
If you only pause it on the first game (first tuner) for say 5 minutes, then go back. And then you fast forward through the first set of commericials (say 5 minutes worth) -- aren't you then caught up to live, so you then won't be able to fast forward through ALL the rest of the commercials?

In other words, how can you fast forward through commericals, unless you are behind the actual broadcast by at least 30 minutes or so?

It was just an example. Obviously, you can't Fast Forward through commercials that aren't there yet until they load it with a flux capacitor.

If you find no usefulness in the "Swap" feature, I wholeheartedly encourage you to not use the "Swap" feature. Someone asked why you would use it without PIP, and I replied with an example of how I use it to my own great personal satisfaction.

Originally posted by tall1
It was discussed here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/printpost.php?postid=4660196). It only affects analog audio.

Thanks. Unfortunately that still leaves me with the sound dropping out problem. Not to mention my receiver will ocasionally switch off of AC3 to regular surround. It never does that with any of my other devices. :(

Originally posted by DingoAce10
Thanks frankz1 and rollerfink!
Nope, no documentation...Just a little 2 page thing that was like a quick reference guide. This PDF (http://broadband.motorola.com/dvr/downloads/URMD2.pdf) was post previously in the thread and might help.

Just got the 6412 yesterday at 4pm. I told them that I am keeping the 6208 I have had since July because there is currently a 4 month wait for them. Besides I had some shows from Monday evening that I had not yet watched. The dual tuner really comes in handy since this is the only digital box I have in the house. ( minus the 6208 that may get returned)

The PDF linked by Hiker states: Q. If I’m watching a program in progress and want to record it, can I record from the beginning?
A. No. Currently, the DVR begins recording at the point in the program you pressed RECORD .

The small hand-out that is given with the DVR from Comcast states that the DVR records the buffer ( up to 15 minutes for HD) when the record button is pressed. Has anyone verified this yet?

Originally posted by frankz1
No offense by this, but didn't Comcast leave you a packet with documentation for your services and equipment. Specifically, "Using Your Built-In Digital Video Recorder"? If not, they should have and you should request it.

I'm not sure about the poster but Comcast left me NOTHING when they did my install. I printed a manual off the internet and have figured things out on my own.

Originally posted by frankz1
I believe he's referring to the analog outputs (L/R), not analog source material. That's correct. The compression settings in the Audio set up menu only affect the analog audio outputs (the L/R stereo RCA jacks), irrespective of the source audio being analog or digital. The settings should have no impact on the SPDIF digital audio outputs via optical or coax (actually another RCA jack on the 6412).

Originally posted by bobkunkle
The PDF linked by Hiker states: Q. If I’m watching a program in progress and want to record it, can I record from the beginning?
A. No. Currently, the DVR begins recording at the point in the program you pressed RECORD .

The small hand-out that is given with the DVR from Comcast states that the DVR records the buffer ( up to 15 minutes for HD) when the record button is pressed. Has anyone verified this yet? Yes, it records from the beginning if and only if you where tuned to that program at the beginning. YMMV. S/W: 71.44-1203 F/W: 9.12

Originally posted by bobkunkle
The PDF linked by Hiker states: Q. If I’m watching a program in progress and want to record it, can I record from the beginning?
A. No. Currently, the DVR begins recording at the point in the program you pressed RECORD .

The small hand-out that is given with the DVR from Comcast states that the DVR records the buffer ( up to 15 minutes for HD) when the record button is pressed. Has anyone verified this yet?

When mine was installed the tech said there was a rolling 45min buffer, if you changed channels then the buffer restarts. In other words, you could start watching a program 45 mins into it as long as it was on that channel and if you started watching at 46 mins into it you would not get the first minute. I assume this is true for the other tuner as well.

That said, I would think that you could record from the beginning, as long as you started within that 45 min window and the tuner had been on that channel. I have not tried any of this myself and I know there are others here with way more experience with this box.

I believe the buffer can be longer than 45 mins on SD.

For example, in response to bobkunkle's question, I tried an experiment. I was watching a movie on SD channel that had started at 9:30. I pushed the rec button at about 11:10 and checked the recording and all is there from the start of the movie. That's a buffer of at least 1 hr 40 m. I think I read somewhere that the HD buffer is not as long.

They might have changed the S/W to include the buffer in the recording since that PDF was written. I remember TiVo added a similar feature to their S/W starting with v2.5. The instruction booklet I got from Comcast on Mon. is similar to the PDF but it states that the buffer is included on recordings if you were tuned.

Originally posted by bobkunkle
The PDF linked by Hiker states: Q. If I’m watching a program in progress and want to record it, can I record from the beginning?
A. No. Currently, the DVR begins recording at the point in the program you pressed RECORD .

The small hand-out that is given with the DVR from Comcast states that the DVR records the buffer ( up to 15 minutes for HD) when the record button is pressed. Has anyone verified this yet? Comcast NJ - Union/Verona

The PDF is wrong. The hand out is correct and yes, it works great!

From the Comcast booklet:
Buffer length max on channel types:
Analog = 45 mins
Digital = 90 mins
HD = 15 mins

In my experiment I was on a digital channel, TCM and I got more than 90 mins. So I guess the buffer length depends on the compression rate and can be longer or shorter than those times.

I hadn't realized that---a 90 minute buffer on digital. Zowie.

It seems to me when I first got mine and was experimenting (please don't think less of me, I was young and foolish and drunk) I ended up with over a 20 minute HD buffer. May be a bitrate thang.

Originally posted by hiker
I believe the buffer can be longer than 45 mins on SD.



Now that you mention SD, I'm not sure, all I watch is HD so when he told me 45mins I made an assumption it was HD :p I guess I will have to play with it as you did and see what it really does...

I noticed that my Sony PDP is reporting a signal coming from the 6412 as:
Analog/Digital SD = 525/60
HD= 1080/60i

Since the 4:3 override is set to 480I, I would have thought that the Sony PDP would be reporting 480/60i instead of 525/60. Using component input. Can anyone explain?

hiker,

I think the Comcast book has a misprint on those buffer times. I think the times should be as follows:

1) Analog = 90 min.
2) Digital = 45 min.
3) HD = 15 min.

Logic tells me that the more bandwith used, the less buffer time. What do you think?

Ben Music

Originally posted by Ben Music
hiker,

I think the Comcast book has a misprint on those buffer times. I think the times should be as follows:

1) Analog = 90 min.
2) Digital = 45 min.
3) HD = 15 min.

Logic tells me that the more bandwith used, the less buffer time. What do you think?

Ben Music No, because my experiement showed that on a digital channel I got a whopping 100 min. See my previous posts. I'll try an analog channel. You can get an approximation of how much is in the buffer by pressing play and looking at the flip bar.

Digital takes up less space than analog, that's one of the reasons we need to get the analog off the cable pipe, more bandwidth. I think you can fit 6-10 digital channels in the space of one analog so it would stand to reason that you could record more digital than analog, but I am not absolutely sure about that, just a guess...

I think it has more to do with the internal setting of the quality for the MPEG encoding used for analog channels. Generally, higher quality requires more hard disk space. TiVo, for example, allows the user to select more than one quality setting that determines the number of hours capacity. The 6412 must be using just about the highest quality for analog recordings. Digital and HD need no encoding and are recorded as the bit stream comes in.

Does anyone know if this unit (6412) is available as yet in central NJ? I live in Lawrenceville, near Trenton, and have been told for the last 6 weeks it is on "back order" "don't know when it will be available".

Originally posted by frankz1
It was just an example. Obviously, you can't Fast Forward through commercials that aren't there yet until they load it with a flux capacitor.

If you find no usefulness in the "Swap" feature, I wholeheartedly encourage you to not use the "Swap" feature. Someone asked why you would use it without PIP, and I replied with an example of how I use it to my own great personal satisfaction.

I think Tall1 gave the best real-world example for the swap a few posts above you....

Originally posted by Kaiser-Soze
I think Tall1 gave the best real-world example for the swap a few posts above you....

I laughed at tall1's, mostly because my wife was the one to rewind the JJ incident on our TiVo and comment that "they shouldn't look like that until after you've had kids. More than one."

A discussion of flattened out flap-jacks followed.

Originally posted by Tyr
With the 6208 I only had the optical SPDIF connected and it passed sound with both the digital and analog channels. In the Dallas area at a least, the analog channels are all the channels below 100.

With the 6412 I can’t get audio with either the optical or coax SPDIF’s. And thanks to the post below I see I’m not the only one.

So my question is, does anyone have their digital audio jacks working on analog stations? Is this a firmware bug? Comcast techs are utterly clueless. They kept asking if my component cables where connected correctly!

Tyr, I had my box replaced and all is now working great! sounds like we got faulty ones...

I've followed this thread since its inception. I haven't seen much "truly new" news for quite some time. The only news that I'm anxiously awaiting is a harddrive upgrade or external harddrive interface.

Are the Atlanta area 6412 Firewire ports active?

If no one knows, how do I test to find out? Do I haul my computer downstairs, hook it up, and check the network connections?

If it's active, my understanding is I can buy an external Firewire hard drive, have a computer support person at my workplace format it for Linux, hook it to the 6412, and suddenly have more storage space. Warehouse.com has a 250Gb drive for $218. That seems like a good price point to increase my HD storage from 19 hours to 48 hours (yes, my 6412 gives me 19 hours of HD storage).

I have the Motorola 6412 from Comcast. If I set up a recording from the programming guide and the program time is subsequently changed (if a football game runs long for example), I thought the recording start and end times would adjust automatically, but they don't. Am I doing something wrong?

Sorry if this is posted in the wrong place or has been answered elsewhere.

fyi...I believe the old 'swap' button is the Input(TV/VCR) button on the new rew remote (see posted pic a few pages back).
That is, if you're watching, then record and want to change channels, you hit the Input button to switch tuners.

neil loeb -

yes the 6412 firewire ports are active in atlanta.

for me, they are acting a little more picky than my 6208 was......to ensure that i get an uninterrupted recording i've been having to power off the 6412 while i set the tape up in my dvhs deck to record via firewire. once the tape is in i power up the 6412 and start the recording.

occassionally i try just doing it cold... it will always start up but very often it will crash the 6412 after 20-30 minutes unless i perform this power cycle. this is witha jvc 30K that had no problems with the 6208......

Originally posted by allinav
I have the Motorola 6412 from Comcast. If I set up a recording from the programming guide and the program time is subsequently changed (if a football game runs long for example), I thought the recording start and end times would adjust automatically, but they don't. Am I doing something wrong?

Sorry if this is posted in the wrong place or has been answered elsewhere.

If a football game runs long, it will *not* be reflected in the program guide, and that is why your recordings will be off. There is no way for the box to tell when a show starts and stops other than the program guide info....

-Randy

So, the Mits 1100u still won't handshake with the 6412. I tried different startup sequences (turn mits on first, then 6412, etc...) but no go. I tried a higher quality firewire cable. Nothing doing.

I'm assuming that it's just a bum box. The 6412 also tends to randomly reboot on me after a few random key strokes.

Anyone else having problems (especially with a mits 1100u)?

from my overall experience using firewire and the 6412, and after reading many posts here, i am thoroughly convinced there is something not quite right with the way the firewire is currently utilized with the 6412. a couple of people have had no problem, but far more of us either have to use a workaround to make recordings, or can't make successful recordings at all.

I have a 6412 and a Mits 1100u and have had no problems between the two yet. they've worked together as well as my 6208 and 1100u did.

Might have figured out something and its probably in this thread somewhere. Had the recording functions then they disappeared after I recorded a show and then couldn't find the show and couldn't pause live tv or do anything with the recording functions, figured powering the box off wasn't resetting it because the drive keeps spinning so pulled the plug out of the wall and waited 5 min. Plugged it back in and the recording functions started working. Went to the my dvr button and the show I recorded previously was there. They are gonna replace the box anyway and hopefully with the correct remote. You know the more I think about these recorders the way they handle them is asking for trouble. They throw them in a truck take them back to the warehouse then install them again, its a disk drive. All that bouncing around can't be good for the unit. We know more about setting them up then they do if you take my install last Sat for example. He set the HD to 480 and I went back and reset it to 720 as I'm to lazy to toggle between 1080 and 720. The picture was blue and I had to go to my daughters dance recital so I told the installer I would screw around with the box myself as we had a signal and I had to go, first DVR was DOA by the way. Before he left I told him I bet they had the component cable was mislabled, sure enough pulled the cable out when I got home and the red blue was reversed on each end of the cable.

Originally posted by ridgefamus
And now a new problem. I use a DVI connection. The last 2 times I turned on my RPTV today, I get 2 overlapping images in the upper 2/3s of my screen, until I change channels. I have not been powering off the 6412. I'm hoping this is merely a display issue and would not affect programmed recording. I can live with changing the channel if nothing else is affected but it may indicate a deeper problem that I should report to Comcast.

Bob

The same thing happens to us occassionally. We just change channels.


tim

Originally posted by oleus
from my overall experience using firewire and the 6412, and after reading many posts here, i am thoroughly convinced there is something not quite right with the way the firewire is currently utilized with the 6412. a couple of people have had no problem, but far more of us either have to use a workaround to make recordings, or can't make successful recordings at all. I agree oleus...my experience with the 6412 iGuide and firewire is alot different than the 6208 blue guide 7.15 fw and firewire.

I still had to turn off the 6208 to establish the handshake but with the 6412, it may take me 3 or 4 tries of power cycling the 6412 before establishing the handshake. The other thing that is strange is navigating the menu on the 6412 while my 40K is connected via I-1 iLink. This will slow the responsiveness of the 6412 to a snails pace. Almost like it is sending the commands to the 40K via the 6412 and waiting for a response. This is a completely different experience than with the 6208. I have to change the channel on my 40K,something other than I-1 if I want to navigate the menus on the 6412. Something is very different with the 6412 firmware for 1394.

Originally posted by Grunt001
So, the Mits 1100u still won't handshake with the 6412. I tried different startup sequences (turn mits on first, then 6412, etc...) but no go. I tried a higher quality firewire cable. Nothing doing.

I'm assuming that it's just a bum box. The 6412 also tends to randomly reboot on me after a few random key strokes.

Anyone else having problems (especially with a mits 1100u)? Hey Grunt, try unplugging both the mits and the moto. This fixed my problem and I only had to do it the one time after the 6412 was installed.

Originally posted by parboy
I just received my 6412 this weekend. In the audio set up of my box it does not have the dolby digital on/off. What it has is a setting for advanced audio where you can set the compression level and choose from mono, stereo, or matrix stereo. As per the manual I have mine set to heavy compression, as it says this is for output to a dolby receiver, and matrix stereo. It seems to be working just fine as my receiver picks up and switches to digital if I tune to a channel that is outputting digital audio.

Are above instruction on how to enable dolby digital output ? Can you send me a link to the manual.

You can go to this link: http://broadband.motorola.com/dvr/dct6412.asp and get the manual. But I think as long as you have it set to matrix stereo, it will output the digital signal via optical or coax.

Originally posted by parboy
You can go to this link: http://broadband.motorola.com/dvr/dct6412.asp and get the manual. But I think as long as you have it set to matrix stereo, it will output the digital signal via optical or coax.

I definitely have matrix stereo but compression set to none. Do I need to set to heavy for dolby digital 5.1 ?

I have my compression set to heavy, as it states it should be in the manual. Truthfully, I can't tell a difference between none and heavy though. I think I read a few posts back in this thread that the compression setting was only in effect if using the L/R audio channels and not the digital.

Originally posted by parboy
I have my compression set to heavy, as it states it should be in the manual. Truthfully, I can't tell a difference between none and heavy though. I think I read a few posts back in this thread that the compression setting was only in effect if using the L/R audio channels and not the digital.

What manual :) I download the 64xx pdf from the link above and did a search on it and could not find the word "heavy", I also flipped through it quickly and did not see any mention of the audio setup screen.

Where in the manual do you see any recommendation to use heavy compression? Audio compression has nothing to do with analog or digital, it affects the dynamic range, more like volume leveling than anything else.

Setting it to none means the explosions are loud and the whispers are soft. Many HT buffs, me included, prefer it that way. Others, like my wife, want some compression to avoid playing with the volume setting to avoid window rattling ;>)

Audio settings should be advanced, matrix, and your choice of compression. But wherever you set the compression, you can still get DD 5.1 from the optical and digital coax outputs.

I have mine set to TV speakers, as I use optical out anyway, and the sound didn't change one bit. Was hoping this would fix the following problem I'm about to compain on.. :)

Was watching West Wing on one tuner last night while the other was taping it (the wifes doing) and twice (fortunately during commercials) the picture and sound completely disappeared, and then reappeared. I'd had problems with just the sound going out when I turned on heavy compression before ( though the two might not have been releated ). Anyone else having problems with the box acting like its over worked? It doesn't happen when its not recording. That thing is Effin HOT btw. I have it as the top unit on my A/V rack with a like amount of space above it and an open back, and it runs WAY hotter than my HTPC which is quieter as well. :(

Don't get me wrong, I love this thing, but it definitely still needs a lot of work.

>I'm assuming that it's just a bum box. The 6412 also tends to randomly reboot on me after a few random key strokes.

The random reboot problem is a bum box one with the fix being to get Comcast to give you a new box.

Comcast is coming out over the weekend to take a look at the 6412. I requested a swap out. Thanks for all the input. I appreciate it.

Originally posted by wittangamo
Where in the manual do you see any recommendation to use heavy compression? Audio compression has nothing to do with analog or digital, it affects the dynamic range, more like volume leveling than anything else.

Setting it to none means the explosions are loud and the whispers are soft. Many HT buffs, me included, prefer it that way. Others, like my wife, want some compression to avoid playing with the volume setting to avoid window rattling ;>)

Audio settings should be advanced, matrix, and your choice of compression. But wherever you set the compression, you can still get DD 5.1 from the optical and digital coax outputs.

I read it in the printed manual that came with one of my previous comcast STB's. I'll pull it out again this evening to double check, but im sure it recommended heavy compression if using a surround receiver.

Your right, I don't see it in the online manual. There is a brief mention of audio set up in the tv guide manual on the site, but it doesn't really apply since my set up doesn't include options to turn on/off DD.

Originally posted by dozens
What manual :) I download the 64xx pdf from the link above and did a search on it and could not find the word "heavy", I also flipped through it quickly and did not see any mention of the audio setup screen. This description below is from page 31 of the iGuide manual (not the Motorola manual). "Heavy" compression is in the Advanced settings area, which is not described in detail in the manual. The iGuide software in Comcast's 6412 does not currently have the menu option to turn Dolby Digital on and off (it's always on for digital outputs).

Audio Setup
Default Audio Language – Change secondary digital audio available with certain networks and programs.
Optimal Stereo Volume -
• No - Means the volume is unchanged from the current setting
• Yes - Means the volume is automatically adjusted to the optimal level
Dolby Digital –
• ON – Turns Dolby Digital on (available only for cable boxes supporting Dolby Digital)
• OFF – Turns Dolby Digital off
Audio Output - Choose if the audio output comes from your TV or from your stereo
• TV Speaker is the default setting
• Select Advanced to change the settings for Compression and Stereo Output

I haven't had any troubles using the 6412 to dump recordings to the HTPC via firewire.

-- Rob

Originally posted by DJRobX
I haven't had any troubles using the 6412 to dump recordings to the HTPC via firewire.

-- Rob
Rob-

Including premium content recordings such as on HBO?

- Phil

Is there a way to get to Favorites Guide in one button?

Originally posted by elbig
Is there a way to get to Favorites Guide in one button?

You would have to get a universal remote with macro capability.

Maybe it's just me, but it drives me crazy that, in the guide, you use the "down" button to go up channels and vice versa. Other cable or sat boxes I have had allowed you to flip the channels in the guide as ascending or descending. I don't see that option on the 6412 so far. Can it be done?

Originally posted by MarcL
This will work fine, except there is no RF out on the 6412. - only composite and S-video.

Yow will see all channels on the SD TV including HD (will be letterboxed), but you will not see any menus - those are only sent out the Component (or DVI). No downconverter needed.

DVR and VOD also work fine this way except no menus.

I have this exact setup - a small SD tv in my kitchen that just mirrors the HD tv in the living room, so the person in the kitchen can still watch the same show - just in SD for now. It is one big room, but you just can't see the main tv from the kitchen, hence the SD TV mirroring. I want to eventually get a 17 inch LCD HD panel in the kitchen, and then use DVI on the main tv, and component to the kitchen to achieve HD mirroring.

Marc

I want to put the DCT6412 in the living room on my HDTV and be able to also control and watch it in an adjacent bedroom on a LCD VGA computer monitor that goes through a converter box to give it RCA and coaxial inputs.
I do this already with my HDVR2 that I'm planning to replace if the Motorola DVR and Comcast service work out after a trial of a few months.

You are saying there are no "menus" through component or S video. What does that mean? Does it mean I would not be able to access the guide to choose recordings or change channels from a second TV set?
I don't want to spend the additional initial and monthly money on an extra converter box and don't want to need duplicate recordings on two DVRs just to watch the same program in two rooms.
On top of that, Comcast only lets you order one DVR per household anyway since they are in short supply anyway.
When supplies are available, I would probably order a second DCT6412 for a distant bedroom so the person in there can watch and record different programming, but I need to be able to share the livingroom DVR with at least the adjacent bedroom.

Originally posted by DJRobX
I haven't had any troubles using the 6412 to dump recordings to the HTPC via firewire.

-- Rob

Rob

Could you provide details on your HTPC. I'm building one now and would like to know which firewire card your using.

Thanks

Look what I found! A lot of questions in this thread are answered in the following official Motorola information, although I don't know when it was written, and therefore whether any of it is dated:

http://broadband.motorola.com/dvr/news_faq.asp

Originally posted by nielloeb
Look what I found! A lot of questions in this thread are answered in the following official Motorola information, although I don't know when it was written, and therefore whether any of it is dated:

http://broadband.motorola.com/dvr/news_faq.asp

What would we all read about if people looked at the actual documentation, nielloeb?!? Blaspheme!
:D Ain't I a stinker?

Originally posted by kkelley
Tyr, I had my box replaced and all is now working great! sounds like we got faulty ones...
Got some more info from anyone else suffering from no sound from digital outputs on analog channels.

First I found out that the lack of sound from the digital outputs only happens on one of the tuners. Tuner A plays sound from all channels but Tuner B only plays sound from the digital channels on the digital outputs.

And I had no less than 3 Comcast techs in my home theater today. They swapped the box twice, and all three boxes did the exact same thing! The serial numbers of the boxes where only a few digits apart so we think there was a whole batch of bad ones and the Comcast in Dallas got most of them. One of the serial number is GI1446TD4665.

Kkelly, any chance you still have the serial number of your defective box? It should be on the work order and begin with a GI.

Restoring Buttons to their original state:

Would anyone happen to know how to restore the "down" arrow on a remote for a 6412 box back to its original function of moving down along lists and menus on the IGuide? I unwisely used this button for a different purpose.

Thanks.

Originally posted by Zack Allen
Restoring Buttons to their original state:

Would anyone happen to know how to restore the "down" arrow on a remote for a 6412 box back to its original function of moving down along lists and menus on the IGuide? I unwisely used this button for a different purpose.

Thanks. Try this procedure (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/printpost.php?postid=4668328) to reset the down arrow. Good luck.

I have developed a problem today which I can't explain and have not read about before. I have no picture from one tuner on any channel while the other tuner works fine as does the iguide. I checked the diagnostic menu "channel status" and there is no information getting to Tuner 1 while tuner 2 looks fine. Will probaply need to replace the box. Anyone else seen this problem before?

I know a lot of 6412 fans are interested in dumping their recordings to their PC via firewire using the method described in this thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=403695). Being very large files, some may also be interested in converting them to DiVx or XvID or some other such format. I posted a link to a guide a while back, but have recently found a much better guide on what to do with the transport file after it's on your PC over at Doom9 (http://www.doom9.org/index.html?/DigiTV/dvb2divx.htm).

Doom9 is a great resource for learning how to turn anything digital into anything else digital, and the guides there will also help you to turn your saved files to DVD or VCD or anything else you want. They even link to the software (most freeware) that will help you do it.

I urge everyone interested to read the linked guide. The basic steps to convert from HD or other Digital Video to DivX or other compressed video are below. Details are over at Doom9 and I'm in no way qualified to explain them or answer questions about them. I just know it works, and people have asked here.

0.5 Save the file to your PC via firewire using the above-linked AVS method
1. Demux (separate the audio and video) the Transport stream file using PVAStrumento
2. Import the (now seperated) audio and video files into MPEG2Schnitt to edit out commercials or whatever else you need to do. (UPDATE: NOTE: A program named cuttermaran also does this step. It seems to be easier to navigate through the video to find the edits, but it's not listed in the Doom9 Guide so I'll continue to recommend MPEG2Schnitt for this step)
3. Use DVD2AVI to create a project (frame server) file from the video file.
4. Open the frame serve file in GordianKnot and use its very easy interface to choose your compression method and options and audio options
5. Start GordianKnot on it's merry way and go watch some other TV for a long, long time.

It is a very long process.

Hope this helps at least point some folks in the right direction on what to do with 6412 recordings they want to archive

I am having problems with my 6412 after about 5 or so hours of usage. While watching Apprentice it automatically turned off. I tried to turn it back on and now it just shows "0".. nothing else... I've tried unplugging power reconnecting... kept it on overnight incase it was downloading but nothing. Nothing comes onto the screen. I searched this forum but it is hard to search for a simple thing that shows up on screen "0".... anyone else experience this? I will have to call Comcrap and swap out the box.

Getting back to the HD buffer issue---I had watched the first part of a St. Lucia travel show and saw that INHD was running part two last night, and I caught the very end---then realized the ENTIRE rest of the show---at least 25 minutes, was still in the buffer. So I hit record (just in case I had to pause it before seeing it all) and went back to catch it from the beginning. Very cool!

Having finally had time to play with the box some more, I set up my "Favorites". Is there an easier way to get to this display other than going into the menu and selecting the favorites so it shows via the bar? I know I can hit the fav button and it'll scroll me through them, but that still shows the other channels. I just want a guide display of favorite channels

Chris---I don't think so. I wondered the same thing, but I think we have to hit menu twice, then arrow over to the favorites button. What I have taken to going is just hitting the OK button, it gives me the Quick Guide, and fortunately all the HD channels (which are my Favorites, anyway) are all together so I can just arrow up or down a few times. I don't believe there is any way to `program' the Quick menu to display a Favorites button, I think it's controlled by your local Comcast.

Originally posted by Chris Beveridge
Having finally had time to play with the box some more, I set up my "Favorites". Is there an easier way to get to this display other than going into the menu and selecting the favorites so it shows via the bar? I know I can hit the fav button and it'll scroll me through them, but that still shows the other channels. I just want a guide display of favorite channels The lack of an easy way to do this is my biggest beef with the 6412 compared to my TiVo. With TiVo, you set up the channels that you're interested in, and no other channels are EVER shown to you, whether in the program listings, changing channels up/down, etc. Once you set it up on TiVo, the other channels don't exist unless you go back and make them visible. This is exactly how I would want the cable TV box to work. I set up the channels I'd like in my listings, and everything else just disappears. I never, never, never want to see: 50 listings of pay-per-view channels, or dozens of premium channels that I don't subscribe to, or any of the channels that I never watch. That should be the default mode of viewing the guide, not the other way around.

you are right, of course. But consider. The cable company does NOT want you to exclude channels. They want you to watch as many as possible!

Originally posted by JonM in MN
you are right, of course. But consider. The cable company does NOT want you to exclude channels. They want you to watch as many as possible!

The main reason you cannot exclude channels like PPV and Premiums from your guide in my opinion is because they want for you to see what you're missing on the channels you do not subscribe to. They hope it will inspire you to buy that PPV or subscribe to that extra Premium.

Originally posted by NauticaX
I am having problems with my 6412 after about 5 or so hours of usage. While watching Apprentice it automatically turned off. I tried to turn it back on and now it just shows "0".. nothing else... I've tried unplugging power reconnecting... kept it on overnight incase it was downloading but nothing. Nothing comes onto the screen. I searched this forum but it is hard to search for a simple thing that shows up on screen "0".... anyone else experience this? I will have to call Comcrap and swap out the box.

Called Comcrap and they just sent another signal and found out there was still a open work order for this DVR to be installed... they closed it out and my DVR is now working again! :)

Originally posted by frankz1
The main reason you cannot exclude channels like PPV and Premiums from your guide in my opinion is because they want for you to see what you're missing on the channels you do not subscribe to. They hope it will inspire you to buy that PPV or subscribe to that extra Premium. Of course they don't want me to exclude channels, but the cable companies just don't get it. If they don't provide me with a device that does what I want it to do, I'll just switch to someone else's device when it becomes available. (If TiVo had a standalone DVR capable of recording HD, that's what I would be using today.) In my decades of watching cable TV, I have never ordered a single pay-per-view show, and I probably never will. Frustrating me by forcing me to see listings for more than 100 channels that I don't want to see will not make me more likely to watch those channels. It will only make me less likely to remain a DVR customer with them.

Originally posted by stevehof
Of course they don't want me to exclude channels, but the cable companies just don't get it. If they don't provide me with a device that does what I want it to do, I'll just switch to someone else's device when it becomes available. (If TiVo had a standalone DVR capable of recording HD, that's what I would be using today.) In my decades of watching cable TV, I have never ordered a single pay-per-view show, and I probably never will. Frustrating me by forcing me to see listings for more than 100 channels that I don't want to see will not make me more likely to watch those channels. It will only make me less likely to remain a DVR customer with them.

Ummm.. I think Tivo does? It's like $1k though. I'm very happy with my free dual tuner DVR with a lower subscription cost and higher response rate (b/c of no need of an IR blaster). Not to mention free lifetime support/service/upgrade. I LIKE not owning the hardware that's going to need to be upgraded every year. If I could pay $10's a month to do this with my computer.. well, it would depend if I get to pick the stuff in it.. :)

Originally posted by stevehof
Of course they don't want me to exclude channels, but the cable companies just don't get it. If they don't provide me with a device that does what I want it to do, I'll just switch to someone else's device when it becomes available. (If TiVo had a standalone DVR capable of recording HD, that's what I would be using today.) In my decades of watching cable TV, I have never ordered a single pay-per-view show, and I probably never will. Frustrating me by forcing me to see listings for more than 100 channels that I don't want to see will not make me more likely to watch those channels. It will only make me less likely to remain a DVR customer with them.

Here you go...Have at it (http://amos.shop.com/amos/cc/pcd/10996447/prd/16878144/ccsyn/260)

UPDATE: Reading is fundamental, I guess. That $1000 is DirecTV, not stand alone. Still, it's the only other option and I'm guessing if demand were that great the marketplace would have more available.

Originally posted by frankz1
Here you go...Have at it (http://amos.shop.com/amos/cc/pcd/10996447/prd/16878144/ccsyn/260) Thanks, but I've already seen the DirecTV satellite version. I'm looking for a standalone HD TiVo (i.e. not married to any particular company's service). Currently, such a product doesn't exist, although TiVo is rumored to be working on it. Eventually, when the two-way CableCARD systems are functional (a few years away), then any consumer electronics manufacturer will be able to make a DVR that's truly plug and play with digital cable TV.

Originally posted by Solarius
I LIKE not owning the hardware that's going to need to be upgraded every year. I prefer not to own the hardware, too, and in general, I like my 6412. It's just that if buying a different product is the only way to overcome UI frustrations, then I'll buy it. Think of how many hours a week over its entire lifetime that you're likely to use a product such as a DVR. Experiencing the same frustrations thousands of times is just... frustrating:(

Originally posted by stevehof
Thanks, but I've already seen the DirecTV satellite version. I'm looking for a standalone HD TiVo (i.e. not married to any particular company's service). Currently, such a product doesn't exist, although TiVo is rumored to be working on it.

There's always the option of building your own HD PVR with a PC card like the MyHD or something similar. You have ultimate control over every aspect - from the Hard Drive space to the RAM to the way the listings show up. This is not married to any service, of course, because all of your HD would come off the air from an antenna.

I've done this, actually. It was not all that difficult if you've ever upgraded your own pc. I'm in a bit of a dead zone broadcast wise, and it would have been too complicated to get up on the roof and put up the antenna (the wife was not a big fan of the idea). It worked well when I could pull in signal.

I'm a fan of the 6412. Then again, we pretty much record everything we want to watch for the night. I rarely find myself paging around the listings for something to watch at any given time. I go to the channels, night by night, at the beginning of the week and pick our programs out for recording. If I ever really want to page listings, that's what Zap2It is there for.

Wait until they put ads in the 6412 menus. Your head is going to explode.

Originally posted by frankz1
There's always the option of building your own HD PVR with a PC card like the MyHD... That would be close to what I'd like, but I would want a "digital cable-ready" version of it. OTA-only would be too limiting.

Eventually, when the two-way CableCARD systems are functional (a few years away), then any consumer electronics manufacturer will be able to make a DVR that's truly plug and play with digital cable TV.Right. But I don't think that TiVo will be able to market such a product viably in the near future. The DirecTV HD DVR costs $1000 and that's with the usual DirecTV subsidies. Standalone boxes have always been more expensive. The 6412 works well enough that I just don't see people lining up to buy a $1000 plus fees device, when the DVR fee is only $10 per month for something that's awfully comparable. It would really need to have spectacular features, and I don't think TiVo's HMO is spectacular enough to justify those high costs. Integrated DVD burning and playback might make it a little more interesting, though.

I couldn't care less about the extra channels in the guide. The only reason I disabled the Spanish channels was so TiVo didn't pick up Spanish suggestions. None of my friends or family who use TiVo bother to remove "channel clutter" either. Saying the cable companies "don't get it" because of that minor feature seems a little over the top. I understand having pet peeves though. Mine are TiVo's lack of a free space indicator and sluggish UI performance. Watching the progression from the 6208 to the 6412 software makes me think quite the opposite - the cable companies ARE finally getting it. This is the first time I've ever felt like I have a decent quality product from the cable company. Every other box I've had has always seemed like embarassing garbage compared to the DirecTV receivers.

My ONLY peeve with the 6412 is the "This program has finished recording" box that pops up. Go away! I don't care! :)

Could you provide details on your HTPC. I'm building one now and would like to know which firewire card your usingI actually have two HTPCs and two 6412s. I couldn't even tell you what kind of firewire card they are. I pulled them out of some HP computers at the office, they weren't ever gonna use 'em. I was also able to use the firewire port on a SBLive.

Including premium content recordings such as on HBO?I used to be able to do that a while back when 5c was off. I haven't tried recently, though I'm sure Comcast LA has turned encryption on by now. I am generally only interested in archiving network broadcasts. A DVHS recorder that can speak 5c can do this, of course.

-- Rob

I finally got Comcast to replace my all-black remote with the silver-and-black one, and I was able to program it for the 30-second skip. Thanks to all in this forum for making that procedure so easy.

However, the replay function also seems to operate in 30-second increments. Is there any way to change the amount of time for this backward skip function? With my ReplayTV, the skip function went 30 seconds forward, but the replay function only went back about 10 seconds or so. This made it convenient to get back to programming if you overshot the commercials with the skip function. I'd like to do the same with the 6412 remote.

Originally posted by crossbeaux
However, the replay function also seems to operate in 30-second increments. Is there any way to change the amount of time for this backward skip function? With my ReplayTV, the skip function went 30 seconds forward, but the replay function only went back about 10 seconds or so. This made it convenient to get back to programming if you overshot the commercials with the skip function. I'd like to do the same with the 6412 remote.
The skip back button is about 15 sec. You can test it during a football game while the game clock is running. I agree that it's too long. I like the 8 sec on my TiVo better.

Originally posted by Solarius
Was watching West Wing on one tuner last night while the other was taping it (the wifes doing) and twice (fortunately during commercials) the picture and sound completely disappeared, and then reappeared. I'd had problems with just the sound going out when I turned on heavy compression before ( though the two might not have been releated ). Anyone else having problems with the box acting like its over worked? It doesn't happen when its not recording.
The box is ALWAYS recording on both tuners if it's turned on, whether you've set up a recording or not.

Originally posted by JonM in MN
you are right, of course. But consider. The cable company does NOT want you to exclude channels. They want you to watch as many as possible!

Yes, but why can DirectTv provide that in their set top boxes? They also want this revenue stream. I hate having to surf through channels I don't want. I don't need spanish channels, PPV, etc.

Gentlemen, I’m on my fourth defective 6412 box and I have a favor to ask if you are using either the coax or optical digital audio outputs.

First, go a known analog channel like CNN, and see if you have audio. Then swap tuners and check again. On all the boxes that I’ve used, one tuner outputs audio via the digital outputs on both digital and analog channels, while the other tuner only works with the digital channels.

Then please post or pm me your boxes serial number and if your box has working audio on analog channels with both tuners or not. The serial numbers all begin with a GI and can be found on the bottom of the box and on the work order.

The Comcast tech I’m working with is supposed to be calling an engineer at Motorola and this would be a great help and very much appreciated.

Originally posted by DJRobX
Right. But I don't think that TiVo will be able to market such a product viably in the near future. The DirecTV HD DVR costs $1000 and that's with the usual DirecTV subsidies. Standalone boxes have always been more expensive. The 6412 works well enough that I just don't see people lining up to buy a $1000 plus fees device, when the DVR fee is only $10 per month for something that's awfully comparable.

Watching the progression from the 6208 to the 6412 software makes me think quite the opposite - the cable companies ARE finally getting it. This is the first time I've ever felt like I have a decent quality product from the cable company. Every other box I've had has always seemed like embarassing garbage compared to the DirecTV receivers. Rob,
I agree with most of what you are saying, however:

a) Standard def TiVo boxes are now available for as low as $99. Eventually (~3-5 years), standalone HD DVRs with CableCARD slots from third parties (not necessarily TiVo) will be down in that range. (Cripes, today you can buy a DVD player for $20.)

b) The 6412 with iGuide is a huge step in the right direction compared to the 6208 dog. But as with most software products and web sites, experienced users want to streamline the number of clicks to the fewest possible to achieve any given task. Think about Amazon's one-click buy option. And how "command" keys on the Macintosh forced Microsoft to adopt shortcuts for virtually all PC applications. Eventually, ease of use wins out to retain customers.

How happy would you be with your 6412 if the software didn't let you skip past commercials when watching recorded shows? Don't be surprised if that "feature" shows up in Comcast's VOD programs. If the same limitation comes to the DVR functions, all the other wonderful benefits of the 6412 won't be worth diddly. (TiVo's coming addition of ads during fast forwarding is the perfect thing for the company to do if it wants to drive away all its customers.)

Originally posted by Tyr
Gentlemen, I’m on my fourth defective 6412 box and I have a favor to ask if you are using either the coax or optical digital audio outputs.

First, go a known analog channel like CNN, and see if you have audio. Then swap tuners and check again. On all the boxes that I’ve used, one tuner outputs audio via the digital outputs on both digital and analog channels, while the other tuner only works with the digital channels.

Then please post or pm me your boxes serial number and if your box has working audio on analog channels with both tuners or not. The serial numbers all begin with a GI and can be found on the bottom of the box and on the work order.

The Comcast tech I’m working with is supposed to be calling an engineer at Motorola and this would be a great help and very much appreciated. Tyr,
My 6412 works fine, with no audio problems on analog or digital (optical) audio output on either tuner on any channels. (Haven't tried coax digital.) Check your email for a PM with serial number.
stevehof

Originally posted by stevehof
a) Standard def TiVo boxes are now available for as low as $99. Eventually (~3-5 years), standalone HD DVRs with CableCARD slots from third parties (not necessarily TiVo) will be down in that range.

Plus about $160 a year to run the thing. I'm a TiVo owner, and I like most tend to forget that fact when bragging about TiVo. I got my TiVo in 2001 when they were much more expensive, and I've spent about $500 since just to own it. They finally got it about making the money on the back-end, but it's not cheap by any measure.
b) The 6412 with iGuide is a huge step in the right direction compared to the 6208 dog. But as with most software products and web sites, experienced users want to streamline the number of clicks to the fewest possible to achieve any given task. Think about Amazon's one-click buy option. And how "command" keys on the Macintosh forced Microsoft to adopt shortcuts for virtually all PC applications. Eventually, ease of use wins out to retain customers.

I see what you're saying here and, yes, Amazon made it easy to spend money on their site. The two are not really the same thing. You don't spend any more on your DVR whether it's easy to use or not.

Like I said, I agree in principle. But are two "Page Downs" really that much more taxing than one? I mean, we're hitting "OK" on a remote control, here.

TiVo is so wonderful and so non-invasive and so easy to use that they're on the verge of going out of business.

How happy would you be with your 6412 if the software didn't let you skip past commercials when watching recorded shows? Don't be surprised if that "feature" shows up in Comcast's VOD programs. If the same limitation comes to the DVR functions, all the other wonderful benefits of the 6412 won't be worth diddly. (TiVo's coming addition of ads during fast forwarding is the perfect thing for the company to do if it wants to drive away all its customers.)

I see what you're saying again, and I will be just as steamed every time tivo makes me look at an ad. That said, companies that don't make any money are not around for long. If tivo was laying off half their staff, everyone would be sitting around griping about how heartless they are. Comcast and Tivo and every other company exist to make money for the people who put up the cash to invest. Consumers decide whether their product is worth it to own or use. $9.95 a month? Yes, that's worth it to me.

Ok, dumb question: How do I cancel a series recording? When I go into DVR Schedule and delete an episode for something I had a series recording setup for, it just seems to delete that one episode from the schedule. How do I totally get rid of it?

-Tim

Originally posted by Tyr
Gentlemen, I’m on my fourth defective 6412 box and I have a favor to ask if you are using either the coax or optical digital audio outputs.

First, go a known analog channel like CNN, and see if you have audio. Then swap tuners and check again. On all the boxes that I’ve used, one tuner outputs audio via the digital outputs on both digital and analog channels, while the other tuner only works with the digital channels.

Then please post or pm me your boxes serial number and if your box has working audio on analog channels with both tuners or not. The serial numbers all begin with a GI and can be found on the bottom of the box and on the work order.

The Comcast tech I’m working with is supposed to be calling an engineer at Motorola and this would be a great help and very much appreciated.

I just performed your test bouncing between 2 analog channels (espn and cnn) and 2 digital channels and then 1 of each -- going between each tuner. I have an optical cable connected to my Pioneer receiver. I get both digital and analog sound out of both tuners. Pretty sure I covered all the bases here.

My serial number begins with GI1439TCxxxx. Hope this helps.

You guys are confusing me on one point. I currently have the 5100HD box, and it displays guide data over the HD channels just fine, through both a DVI and component connection.

Are you guys saying that the 6412 will not do this?

Originally posted by rodneyremington
You guys are confusing me on one point. I currently have the 5100HD box, and it displays guide data over the HD channels just fine, through both a DVI and component connection.

Are you guys saying that the 6412 will not do this?

I am using the 6412 and the guide works fine with HD channels on both component and DVI connections

6412 w/ iGuide Discussion!!!
This is not the TiVo versus 6412 thread so go post there or start one but respectfully keep this thread OT.

Originally posted by avic
6412 w/ iGuide Discussion!!!
This is not the TiVo versus 6412 thread so go post there or start one but respectfully keep this thread OT.

Sorry to burden your eyes with the word TiVo. Thought I was extolling the virtues of the 6412 as good value for the money.

So how do I set up that "Swap" button again?

Originally posted by tmaestas95
Ok, dumb question: How do I cancel a series recording? When I go into DVR Schedule and delete an episode for something I had a series recording setup for, it just seems to delete that one episode from the schedule. How do I totally get rid of it?

-Tim Comcast NJ - Union/Verona

Just go into the "Series Priority" list and you can delete the entire "Series Recoding" from there.

My power went out 2x last night. They really need to get the programming data to buffer longer or update faster.

Anyone know of a code for the 'live' button on the silver remote? I have a 6 in 1 universal that does everything I want other than go right to live video from a rewind. This remote doesn't have a learning function so I can't just transfer it from the remote that came with the 6412. I've got the list that was posted on this site, but it doesn't have a listing for 'live'. Thanks in advance.

Originally posted by BJMoose
Anyone know of a code for the 'live' button on the silver remote? I have a 6 in 1 universal that does everything I want other than go right to live video from a rewind. This remote doesn't have a learning function so I can't just transfer it from the remote that came with the 6412. I've got the list that was posted on this site, but it doesn't have a listing for 'live'. Thanks in advance.

For a One-For-All or the newer Comcast remotes, I think the code is 177. You can manually send it by simply hitting setup (don't hold, just press it as normal), then typing 177.

You can get a general list here:
http://www.hifi-remote.com/cgi-bin2/ueic.cgi?cbl_0476

It doesn't list everything yet. Unlisted codes are 177 for Live, and 236 for Swap. Skip=30 sec skip. DVR=MyDVR.

Andyross63,

Thanks, the 177 code worked perfectly. I'll add it to the list.

Andyross63,

Thanks, the 177 code worked perfectly. I'll add it to the list.

...edit...I apologize for the double post. Something happened to my connection and I hit submit twice. Didn't think it went through the first time.

having a problem with my 6412's dvr....

last night i noticed a phantom recording, showing 0 minutes from 12/31/1989!!

trouble is, every time i tried deleting it, it was actually deleting the next program up so i mistakenly deleted 3 or 4 things.....very frustrating

i decided just to delete everything to try and isolate that program to delete....not every time i try to delete it it locks up the 6412 with a "NH" failure code telling me to call customer service. good things never happen when i call customer service so i was wondering if any of you had anything similar happen and if so, if you were ever able to delete the phantom recording.

thanks

I had the same problem with the phantom 1989 recording. And I tried the same steps as you. I was able to delete after pulling the plug to force a hard reset. I had also deleted all of the recordings in my futile attempts to eliminate it.

I've read that the resetting/rebooting issue is due to faulty power supply. Can anyone confirm this? For those who have/had problems what were you doing when your box turned off? I myself had my box that I just got yesterday reboot 6 times in the past 2-3 hours. It may be just a coincidence but everytime my box restarted it was when I was accessing the guide (by pushing the guide, menu, info or OK button)

I'm unsure whether we on this board have confirmed the reboot problem is a faulty power supply. What we do know is the only solution is to have Comcast bring you a new box, and that Comcast knows of the problem.

I have a 6412 for about 3 weeks and have not had any problems till two days ago. I have it hooked up to a Toshiba TV and my kids plug their GameCube to the front AV jacks. Starting Friday after they use the GameCube when I switch the Video on the TV back to the 6412 connection I do not get any TV picture. The Guide shows but no TV. I found that the only way to get the TV back is to start a previous recorded DVR show then hit the Live button. Very strange. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

I didn't think the front AV jacks even worked:confused: Can you confirm and let me know how to activate it?

Originally posted by DHarp193
I didn't think the front AV jacks even worked:confused: Can you confirm and let me know how to activate it?

I'm guessing he means the AV jacks on the TV and not the 6412.

I got a tech coming Monday and he's scheduled to bring a new box and a silver remote. Since my last post I only touched my box twice. The first time it reset after a few minutes. Then I power cycled the box and didn't touch it overnight. In the morning the first button I pressed on the remote was the guide button...it immediately reset again.....It's weird that it seems to only reset itself when I'm accessing a guide function, using the box and just changing channels works fine, it's when I access a guide when the problems arise.

Originally posted by frankz1
I'm guessing he means the AV jacks on the TV and not the 6412.

Thanks Frank:)!!! Yeah, I guess that makes sense.

You watchin' the "Birds" vs. Dallas right now? Nice catch Chad:D!!!

I grew up in Levittown and left when I was in 6th grade. I grew up in Red Cedar on Robin Hill Lane. Are you near there?

You're not Frank Howell by chance (the only Frank I remember from there)??

PM me, maybe we know each other:)

Just got the 6412 (yea!). My TV (Sony 30xbr910) has a DVI connection, so I'm thinking of switching from component to DVI.

Any words of wisdom? Things I should look out for? I vaguely remember someone saying you can't leave the cable box on when the TV's turned off, but I could be wrong. Anything else?

Thanks.

Jim

I think the suggestion was ALWAYS to leave the 6412 on, even when the tv is turned off.

Originally posted by zooey91
Just got the 6412 (yea!). My TV (Sony 30xbr910) has a DVI connection, so I'm thinking of switching from component to DVI.

Any words of wisdom? Things I should look out for? I vaguely remember someone saying you can't leave the cable box on when the TV's turned off, but I could be wrong. Anything else?

Thanks.

Jim

In my opinion, if you have an available component input and component wires to your Sony you don't need to incur the expense of a DVI cable. The picture improvement is virtually indiscernable. I use DVI to my Sony from the 6412 as the 2 component inputs are tied up with DVD player (which deosn't have DVI-out) and OTA tuner. Images from both OTA and the 6412 for the same program are, again IMO, virtually equal in quality.

Bob

thanks.

The main reason behind it is that I'd like to hook up another unit to the component video, similar to your setup.

So are there any DVI issues I should know about?

I've had no issues with my DVI connection from the 6412. There is one anomoly but don't know if I attribute it to the DVI connection. When I turn the TV on and it is set to pick up the feed from the 6412, I get a double image side by side in the upper 2/3 of my widescreen. It returns to normal by just switching channels. I saw one other report in this thread of the same situation. Since it's easily resolved, I haven't considered it a problem.

briansok -

I'm seeing the exact same behavior where I don't see a picture when turning on the box. I have to watch a previous recording to get live TV to work. This behavior is only happening on one of the three 6412's I have..

I have a technician coming out tomorrow but I suspect they're just going to swap the box out. I'll post an update tomorrow.

--Mike

castilloblanco -

i have tried unplugging the box but so far i have found no way to delete this weird "12/31/1989" 0 minute recording from channel 0! i have also tried deleting everything else.....were there any other steps you took? this is such a weird little bug....whenever i try deleting it now it freezes up for a while then gives me the "unable to process request" message with error code NH ( comcast doesn't know what it's referring to).

even though it's reported as 0 minutes, it's taking up 3% of the dvr space so something is there....

scheduled to get a replacement on tues. night, hope they bring the right kind of box.

Originally posted by madworld
briansok -

I'm seeing the exact same behavior where I don't see a picture when turning on the box. I have to watch a previous recording to get live TV to work. This behavior is only happening on one of the three 6412's I have..

I have a technician coming out tomorrow but I suspect they're just going to swap the box out. I'll post an update tomorrow.

--Mike

I had this happen one time. I unplugged the box for 30 seconds. When I plugged it back in it worked again. It has been fine ever since and it never did it again.

Thanks Tall1 for posting the link to the procedure for reversing an unwise remapping of a key on a 6412 remote.

Originally posted by briansok
I have a 6412 for about 3 weeks and have not had any problems till two days ago. I have it hooked up to a Toshiba TV and my kids plug their GameCube to the front AV jacks. Starting Friday after they use the GameCube when I switch the Video on the TV back to the 6412 connection I do not get any TV picture. The Guide shows but no TV. I found that the only way to get the TV back is to start a previous recorded DVR show then hit the Live button. Very strange. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
Same thing happened on mine yesterday. I also found that going to a recording then hitting live was the way to get the thing to cycle back. Strange indeed! That's the only hiccup I've had in 2-3 weeks.

Yes sorry it is plugged into the front jacks on the TV. Now I just discovered when I turn on everything it still does not work properly even if I did not hook up their GameCube. I still have to play a DVR recording for a second and then hit the Live button.

Help!! Anyone have any ideas?

Originally posted by briansok
Yes sorry it is plugged into the front jacks on the TV. Now I just discovered when I turn on everything it still does not work properly even if I did not hook up their GameCube. I still have to play a DVR recording for a second and then hit the Live button.

Help!! Anyone have any ideas?

Consensus is that the boxes were generally not meant to be powered down.

Originally posted by briansok
Yes sorry it is plugged into the front jacks on the TV. Now I just discovered when I turn on everything it still does not work properly even if I did not hook up their GameCube. I still have to play a DVR recording for a second and then hit the Live button.

Help!! Anyone have any ideas?

Try unplugging the power cord for a few minutes. It should work again when you plug it back in.

Originally posted by frankz1
Consensus is that the boxes were generally not meant to be powered down.

could you elaborate? If y'all are saying that the unit should remain turned on, doesn't that mean that the hard drive is constantly buffering data? Doesn't seem quite right.

If you're saying I should never turn the unit off, is there a way to program the remote so the power button does NOT power down the 6412?

Originally posted by zooey91
could you elaborate? If y'all are saying that the unit should remain turned on, doesn't that mean that the hard drive is constantly buffering data? Doesn't seem quite right.

If you're saying I should never turn the unit off, is there a way to program the remote so the power button does NOT power down the 6412?

My TiVo has been buffering data for about 3 1/2 years now. Seems quite right.

Sarcasm aside, the hard drive is still going when you power down the box. It's only the display aspect that gets powered down (unless you unplug of course). As the display is your problem, logic would dictate that you should leave it in it's working state rather than taking it in and out of working state by turning it on and off.

Read the thread. Many reported problems have been reported surrounding turning the box off.

I've had my DVRs for 3 days now (one SD, one HD).

The DVR on the SDTV, when I've turned the TV on, has had a "frozen screen" for the channel it's been turned to twice now - which clears as soon as I change channels. No recording was scheduled or occurring at the time, so I have no idea what caused it.

I got the new black remote on both DVRs - has anyone been able to program the skip function on this puppy? (Apparently, unlike the silver remote, this one has no Setup button, so the setup instructions in this thread don't work.)

If you don't want the STB to buffer, you can get around this by tuning both receivers to one of the music channels. It does not buffer them.

Is there anyway to pick only certain days and/or times for a series recording?

For instance, Whose Line is it anyway is on the comedy channel from 10-10:30 and 10:30-11pm weekdays...I dont want it recording all 20 shows (even though I can tell it to only keep a certain amount)...Can I tell it to just record on M/W/F @ 10pm only??? or something like that

Originally posted by davisdog
Is there anyway to pick only certain days and/or times for a series recording?

For instance, Whose Line is it anyway is on the comedy channel from 10-10:30 and 10:30-11pm weekdays...I dont want it recording all 20 shows (even though I can tell it to only keep a certain amount)...Can I tell it to just record on M/W/F @ 10pm only??? or something like that

No.

Originally posted by frankz1
No.

The only real workaround is to have it set to record all of them and then just cancel the ones you don't want it to record. Takes a couple of minutes once a week to do. But I like to check up on the recording schedule anyway on a regular basis so that's just me.

The system is just retarded now. With the 6208 at least I could just set it to record a certain slot every week. That's it. Now I try to record a "New" show every week, it does that with the 6412. However, when there is no "New" show at that specific time it doesn't record. That's fine. But then it decides to record 10 other shows on the same channel at varying times.

This software = broken.

Newer isn't necessarily better it seems.

I've read through this entire thread and this subject has been touched on, but I'm still a little confused. I have a Toshiba HD Ready TV (TN55x81) that has a 4:3 aspect ratio. I am trying to configure the 6412 output settings to work with my TV. I have the TV Type set to 4:3 Letterbox and the YPbPr Output set to 1080i. I think these settings are all working fine, but I'm not sure what to set the 4:3 override to. It seems that no matter what I select, I am still getting black bars on the left and right edges of the picture when I am watching an HD Channel (ABC HD) that is broadcasting a 4:3 resolution show. If I watch the analog version of the HD Simulcast (ABC), the picture fills the 4:3 screen - but obviously the picture quality is not near as good.

So what's the secret to getting rid of the black bars on the side for HD channels? I would expect the side black bars if I was using a 16:9 TV Set, but on my 4:3 shouldn't 4:3 programming on HD channels just fill the screen?

Thanks,
Gregory

Originally posted by marscellus
I've read through this entire thread and this subject has been touched on, but I'm still a little confused. I have a Toshiba HD Ready TV (TN55x81) that has a 4:3 aspect ratio. I am trying to configure the 6412 output settings to work with my TV. I have the TV Type set to 4:3 Letterbox and the YPbPr Output set to 1080i. I think these settings are all working fine, but I'm not sure what to set the 4:3 override to. It seems that no matter what I select, I am still getting black bars on the left and right edges of the picture when I am watching an HD Channel (ABC HD) that is broadcasting a 4:3 resolution show. If I watch the analog version of the HD Simulcast (ABC), the picture fills the 4:3 screen - but obviously the picture quality is not near as good.

So what's the secret to getting rid of the black bars on the side for HD channels? I would expect the side black bars if I was using a 16:9 TV Set, but on my 4:3 shouldn't 4:3 programming on HD channels just fill the screen?

Thanks,
Gregory

The 4:3 Override only effects the SD channels, overriding the 4:3 output to fit on a 16x9 TV. The correct setting for a 4:3 TV is off. The setting is for 16x9 TV owners.

To do what you want, I believe you need to set your output to 4:3 Pan and Scan. HD is a widescreen format, and by setting that to Letterbox, you're asking it to give you exactly what you don't want: Letterboxing the output - black bars and all - to fit your 4:3 TV. The black bars are coming from the source. The 6412 doesn't know the difference between the black bars and the picture.

More at: http://broadband.motorola.com/noflash/customer_docs/user_guides/512659-001-a.pdf

Oleus,

re:1989 zero minute recording

The only other thing that I did was to force a hit to the box through the comcast automated phone system. I tried numerous hits before I unplugged the box, but they didn't help. I did a final one after unplugging the box hoping that a combination of the two snake oils would work. I'm unsure if the recording was deletable before the hit or after since I did both right before going to bed. In the morning I could delete the recoding.


A couple of other answers around the board:

and I've seen people ask about a return to live function. Pressing the down arrow accomplishes this.

and regarding a good universal remote. I have the one for all URC-6131 and love it. It has all the pvr keys you need and if fully customizable via the jp1 interface.

Originally posted by zooey91
Just got the 6412 (yea!). My TV (Sony 30xbr910) has a DVI connection, so I'm thinking of switching from component to DVI.

Any words of wisdom? Things I should look out for? I vaguely remember someone saying you can't leave the cable box on when the TV's turned off, but I could be wrong. Anything else?
Jim

Unless they've fixed things on the 6412, there could be an issue. When I've tried to use DVI with my 30XBR910, 480i signals are shifted to the right. This is not adjustable, even in TV's the service menu, withough screwing up 480i on the component inputs (they use the same settings.)

Basically, I woudln't waste money on a DVI cable right now. The difference is mainly how the TV's settings are configured for different, not the interface itself. DVI defaults to a nearly perfect NTSC setting, compared to the other inputs.

The default setting for the remote, is that it always needs a three digit channel. I changed it so one or two digit channels are recognized.

But since I now watch analog through the TV's tuner, I want to change it back to needing a three digit channel; how do I do this?

I think it was in the instructions, but I don't see it now. And it isn't a specific button, so the reset procedure doesn't apply.

Originally posted by ridgefamus
I've had no issues with my DVI connection from the 6412. There is one anomoly but don't know if I attribute it to the DVI connection. When I turn the TV on and it is set to pick up the feed from the 6412, I get a double image side by side in the upper 2/3 of my widescreen. It returns to normal by just switching channels. I saw one other report in this thread of the same situation. Since it's easily resolved, I haven't considered it a problem.
With DVI, and on ESPN only, I get a double image in the upper 1/3 of the screen, switching channels returns it to normal.

Originally posted by QZ1
The default setting for the remote, is that it always needs a three digit channel. I changed it so one or two digit channels are recognized.

But since I now watch analog through the TV's tuner, I want to change it back to needing a three digit channel; how do I do this?

I think it was in the instructions, but I don't see it now. And it isn't a specific button, so the reset procedure doesn't apply.

In the setup menu, choose cable box options, then under AUTOTUNE, choose no.

Thanks. No wonder I couldn't find that setting in the instructions.:D

On the 6412 Dual Tuner iGuide is there anyway to delete (unwanted or unneeded) channels from the full channel list supplied by the guide?

No you have to see it all. I have marked my favorites, then when I want to scan only them, I hit the center select button that brings up a mini guide at the bottom. Then I repeatedly use the Favorites key to only scan them.

Thanks. I already have the favorites marked of course but was hoping as in most guide systems you could customize the full list as well.

Has anyone had problems with audio dropouts (with a light visual prob too) on some HD channels.

On two of my locals (fox and wb) I get unbearable audio dropouts through my 6412. I didn't get them though the 6208 and I don't get them through my integrated QAM tuner.

They happen whether I'm live or watching a recorded program.

davisdog, the only thing I have done to prevent the 6412 from recording every instance of a series is to mark the recordings as "Save Until I delete" and then set the maximum number of recordings to some finite number. The recordings will still be scheduled, but if the maximum number of recordings for that series already exist, it will be skipped at show time. Then when I delete an episode of that series, the next show will be picked up.

Mike3, I have experienced the same problem with the Fox HD channel. I have not watched the WB much so I don't know about that.

So I want to test this box and after reading this thread I call comcast. They have no idea what I am talking then say that due to Dallas still being an A/B cable area I can't get this box? What!!! I am going to call them back but can you confirm this is available in Dallas?

Originally posted by mwhip
So I want to test this box and after reading this thread I call comcast. They have no idea what I am talking then say that due to Dallas still being an A/B cable area I can't get this box? What!!! I am going to call them back but can you confirm this is available in Dallas?

If you are on an A/B system (like me in Plano), it is not currently available. There will be a channel realignment, probably in the first quarter, that will put all analog-only channels on one side, and *all* channels will be available digitally on the other one. At that time, we'll be able to hook up the digital side to a 6412 and it will work. The problem is that you can't have two inputs to the 6412, and when your channels are split across the two cables, you would have to be able to feed it two inputs.

The 6208 is not nearly as nice, but it does a decent job...and they will be loading the i-Guide software on it (at least that's my understanding) and that will be a major improvement over it's current functionality....

Here's a link to a forum that is more DFW-specific: Comcast DFW Discussion. (http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,12102804~mode=flat?r=514) There is also a link there to an earlier thread that that one was spawned from.

Hope that helps...

Randy

Originally posted by IFLYSWA
If you are on an A/B system (like me in Plano), it is not currently available. There will be a channel realignment, probably in the first quarter, that will put all analog-only channels on one side, and *all* channels will be available digitally on the other one. At that time, we'll be able to hook up the digital side to a 6412 and it will work. The problem is that you can't have two inputs to the 6412, and when your channels are split across the two cables, you would have to be able to feed it two inputs.

The 6208 is not nearly as nice, but it does a decent job...and they will be loading the i-Guide software on it (at least that's my understanding) and that will be a major improvement over it's current functionality....

Here's a link to a forum that is more DFW-specific: Comcast DFW Discussion. (http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,12102804~mode=flat?r=514) There is also a link there to an earlier thread that that one was spawned from.

Hope that helps...



Randy


It helps a lot. I am currently a DirecTV with TiVo user and don't want to shell out $1k for the HD-TiVo. I was hoping comcast was going to have something of an answer soon either the 6412 or the Moxi. Since it appears they are still dragging their feet I will wait. I am in the Lakewood area and it always appears we are the last for everything, DSL and Cable modem we just got a year ago.

Originally posted by siddy
davisdog, the only thing I have done to prevent the 6412 from recording every instance of a series is to mark the recordings as "Save Until I delete" and then set the maximum number of recordings to some finite number. The recordings will still be scheduled, but if the maximum number of recordings for that series already exist, it will be skipped at show time. Then when I delete an episode of that series, the next show will be picked up. I am not sure I understand this one. If you setup a series recording for CSI and it records at it's normal time on Thursday evening at 8pm but it also schedules recordings for the syndicated episodes. So it records the primetime episode, then it records a syndicated episode and now the max # of recs. exists, it will not record the next primetime episode, right? How is this a workaround if you would miss recording the next primetime episode?

One other thing in general confuses me with the guide data. iGuide can't figure out if syndicated shows (e.g. CSI), local news re-broadcasts, Leno, and Conan O'Brian are repeats but it can determine if a non-syndicated primetime show is a repeat. It won't record these primetime repeat episodes if you set the recording option to First Run Only but it records everything broadcast for the list of programs I noted above with this option set.

Originally posted by frankz1
As the display is your problem, logic would dictate that you should leave it in it's working state rather than taking it in and out of working state by turning it on and off.

Read the thread. Many reported problems have been reported surrounding turning the box off.

I don't believe anybody on this thread has answered the question zooey91 asked (unless I missed it). How do you program the remote so that the Power All button does not power off the cable box? As things stand, it takes 5 button presses to turn my TV and receiver on/off without turning off the 6412 (TV, Power, Aux, Power, Cable). Not exactly optimal, especially for less technically savvy family members.

Originally posted by jdbnh
I don't believe anybody on this thread has answered the question zooey91 asked (unless I missed it). How do you program the remote so that the Power All button does not power off the cable box? As things stand, it takes 5 button presses to turn my TV and receiver on/off without turning off the 6412 (TV, Power, Aux, Power, Cable). Not exactly optimal, especially for less technically savvy family members. I'm not sure it can be done on this remote. I gave up on the whole "power all" scenario when I was trying to program my harmony remote. I leave everything on and I have it down to pushing power off/on on the TV and Receiver. I have a technically challenged wife and she was always getting the components out of synch when powering up. I showed her the 2 power buttons on the Rec./TV and she has no problems now. I plug my DVD into the switched outlet on the receiver and leave my 6412s powered on all the time, works great.

Originally posted by jdbnh
I don't believe anybody on this thread has answered the question zooey91 asked (unless I missed it). How do you program the remote so that the Power All button does not power off the cable box? As things stand, it takes 5 button presses to turn my TV and receiver on/off without turning off the 6412 (TV, Power, Aux, Power, Cable). Not exactly optimal, especially for less technically savvy family members.

I programed the remote on my AVR to turn it and the TV on/off (one click for each). Therefore I don't touch the power buttom on the Moto remote (unless I turn it off to go into the menu), leaving it always on.

Originally posted by jdbnh
I don't believe anybody on this thread has answered the question zooey91 asked (unless I missed it). How do you program the remote so that the Power All button does not power off the cable box? As things stand, it takes 5 button presses to turn my TV and receiver on/off without turning off the 6412 (TV, Power, Aux, Power, Cable). Not exactly optimal, especially for less technically savvy family members.

The All ON button doesn't seem to be reprogrammable. The Power key IS macro capable.

You can program a macro on most any available button. Help and Lock/A are probably the most useless keys. Macros typically work no matter which mode is selected, so don't use a key you need to use with a particular programmed device:
Press and hold Setup until 2 blinks
Type 995, you should get 2 blinks
Press the key you want to put the macro on, you should get one SHORT blink
Enter the key sequence you want (TV,power,Aux,Power)
Press and hold Setup until 2 blinks

If your TV and receiver/amp (I assume that is what Aux is for) have discrete ON/OFF codes, you can create two macros on two different keys. One turns things on, one off. Unforunately, the Motorola box does NOT have discrete ON/OFF codes, only a basic Power (on/off cycle) command. To get the codes, go to http://www.hifi-remote.com/ofa/adv-codes.shtml and look up your codes. To use them, do something like this for the macro sequence:
Hit device, then press setup (don't hold), then the 3 digit sequence.
Sony TV + receiver example for ON: <TV><SETUP>113<AUX><SETUP>113
(Use 109 for OFF)
With the above, your TV and amp will turn on when you hit the key. If you hit it again, nothing happens because they are already on! You can expand on this and add codes to switch to the proper inputs, too. Some TV's and receivers have codes that will switch directly to an input.

To erase a macro and restore a key, just start the macro recording as normal, but instead of typing in a sequence of keys to record, just hold down SETUP to end with nothing recorded.

Must be a slow work day. Three different responses to the same question. Avsforums is an amazing place. :)

Originally posted by tall1
Must be a slow work day. Three different responses to the same question. Avsforums is an amazing place. :)

They are all withing 5 minutes of each other. Two were posted while I was writing mine.

Besides I think they've said that it's perfectly OK to power your box off via the power button since it doesn't actually turn off, but rather stops sending a video signal out to the tv.

I think the caution has been not to power the unit down via the plug.

wow! what attention!

Originally posted by Mike3
Besides I think they've said that it's perfectly OK to power your box off via the power button since it doesn't actually turn off, but rather stops sending a video signal out to the tv.

I think the caution has been not to power the unit down via the plug.

People are having problems when restarting video signal to the TV after powering off. That's the issue. In other words, it is perfectly OK to power off your box via the power button, unless it's not.

Originally posted by Mike3
Besides I think they've said that it's perfectly OK to power your box off via the power button since it doesn't actually turn off, but rather stops sending a video signal out to the tv.

I think the caution has been not to power the unit down via the plug.

Wait, is that right? Now I'm even more confused.

Originally posted by Mike3
Besides I think they've said that it's perfectly OK to power your box off via the power button since it doesn't actually turn off, but rather stops sending a video signal out to the tv.

I think the caution has been not to power the unit down via the plug.

I think the box is still sending some sort of signal to the TV. My JVC has a shutoff feature that turns the TV off after 10 minutes of not receiving a signal. My TV shut off with my old moto box (the one comcast gave for HD). With the 6412 if I shut off the box my tv stays on but there's no audio/video (at least I don't see/hear anything)

Originally posted by DaveFi
My power went out 2x last night. They really need to get the programming data to buffer longer or update faster.

I use a $99 PC UPS to prevent loosing anything during short power outages. It works great.

Brian

Originally posted by Mike3
Has anyone had problems with audio dropouts (with a light visual prob too) on some HD channels.

On two of my locals (fox and wb) I get unbearable audio dropouts through my 6412. I didn't get them though the 6208 and I don't get them through my integrated QAM tuner.

They happen whether I'm live or watching a recorded program.

Same here.
Also KCET HD (PBS) channel is very pixely, too annoying to watch anything.

Originally posted by bbloom96
I use a $99 PC UPS to prevent loosing anything during short power outages. It works great.


For the type of money we spend on our AV systems; just like computers, its worth investing the money for a UPS.

Has anybody noticed that when the 6412 is powered off and then wakes-up to record an event that the audio is dead on all outputs (digital and analog) if you turn it on? I have repeated this problem twice and tonight I decided to hook up cables to both the optical and coax digital ports along with the standard stereo outputs and still no sound!

Swapping to the other tuner does not change the problem. The only way to fix it is to stop the recording and then power the unit off and back on again.

Wondering if this a true software bug or something that might be wrong with my unit.

Otherwise, nice unit except for the annoying manual swap between tuners.

Originally posted by arkid
Same here.
Also KCET HD (PBS) channel is very pixely, too annoying to watch anything.
Really? This sounds kind of strange to me. I'm looking at PBS now and it looks (and sounds) crystal clear. I have only experienced very short pixelation periods - and that was on channel changes. There might have been one or two quick instances that the signal has produced minor pixelation, but nothing for more than a second.

Originally posted by b5lurker
Has anybody noticed that when the 6412 is powered off and then wakes-up to record an event that the audio is dead on all outputs (digital and analog) if you turn it on? I have repeated this problem twice and tonight I decided to hook up cables to both the optical and coax digital ports along with the standard stereo outputs and still no sound!

Swapping to the other tuner does not change the problem. The only way to fix it is to stop the recording and then power the unit off and back on again.

Wondering if this a true software bug or something that might be wrong with my unit.

Otherwise, nice unit except for the annoying manual swap between tuners.

This problem was discussed earlier in this thread and there is a fix. It is add a MUTE button to your remote to turn this MUTE condition off. The instructions for programming this mute button are in this thread. Here is one set of instructions that I copied into a Word file a while back ... sorry I can't remember the original author.

==============================================

The box goes into mute when the power is off and a recording starts. You have to press the mute button on your remote. If it mutes the tv instead of the cable box then follow these steps..


1. Press the cable button

2. Press and hold setup until it blinks twice then let go

3. Press 994

4. Press setup and release

5. Press 00141

6. Press the mute button
__________________
Jim

=============================================

Originally posted by b5lurker

Wondering if this a true software bug or something that might be wrong with my unit.


or just leave the unit on full time (which is what many are doing)..until they resolve the mute issue

Also KCET HD (PBS) channel is very pixely, too annoying to watch anything.PBS looks relatively nasty (as far as HD standards go) here too. It's not a "faulty" picture at all, but rather, it just looks like it's not being given near enough bandwidth, or a poor encoder is being used. It does not stand up to most of the other channels like INHD or Discovery HD when they're doing real HD material. It has always looked like this since I got the 5200 box earlier, it's not a 6412 or 6208 thing. I'm not sure if it's just the way PBS is, or if Comcast is applying additional compression. I can't get OTA to compare.

On my 3rd 6412 in 8 days. They came in Sat and put in a new box, damn iGuide still won't load. They pinged the box and said they have to come out and check it again. At least the PVR functions work on this one but my question is doesn't the iGuide load from the system, why would there be anything wrong with the box. Everything says not available when you hit guide. Problem with them coming out is they are jammed so won't get to me till probably next week as I'm going away for the holiday. I had Americast cable in Atlanta which is Bellsouth, didn't have a service call for 3 1/2 years. Had Comcast 8 days and they have been to my house 3 times for the 6412, really praying Voom comes out with their DVR box soon and its not a Moto cause the more I read these threads the more unreliable this box seems to be. Also I have two TV's split with the 6412 on one line and a regular box on the other, asked the tech if you need a special splitter when using HD, he said no. Is that true?

Originally posted by brianbes
...the more I read these threads the more unreliable this box seems to be. Also I have two TV's split with the 6412 on one line and a regular box on the other, asked the tech if you need a special splitter when using HD, he said no. Is that true?

I wouldn't necessarily write off Motorola on this one. I've had my 6412 for almost 2 months now (also with Comcast) without a hitch. Not saying it's not your box, but it could be that there is a problem on the Comcast side.

No, you don't need a special splitter (although anytime you split your line, it's best to use a quality splitter for the cleanest possible signal). I have my line split for analog signal to go directly to coaxil input of the TV and the other going to the 6412. I have a much cleaner analog signal through the direct connection than through the box.

There have been rumors in this area (as I've also heard in other areas) that in the near future, Comcast will be simulcasting the analog channels in digital format. Hope this helps.

Originally posted by DJRobX
PBS looks relatively nasty (as far as HD standards go) here too. It's not a "faulty" picture at all, but rather, it just looks like it's not being given near enough bandwidth, or a poor encoder is being used. It does not stand up to most of the other channels like INHD or Discovery HD when they're doing real HD material. It has always looked like this since I got the 5200 box earlier, it's not a 6412 or 6208 thing. I'm not sure if it's just the way PBS is, or if Comcast is applying additional compression. I can't get OTA to compare. Comcast does not compress any HD signals as a national policy. Many PBS affiliates (mine included) multicast to the severe detriment of the HD signal.

Sorry to confuse the issue. I didn't realize the problem with using the power button.

In case anyone didn't know, these boxes (all the Motorola HD boxes) don't turn off when you hit the power button. Apparently they just stop sending the video signal out of the box. I'm not sure what the point is in this functionality, but that's what they do. When you hit the power button, you'll notice the hard drives still spin (so long as you aren't on a music channel)

I think we should change the title of this thread to, "Official Comcast 6412 w/ iGuide Discussion RE: LEAVE THE DAMN BOX ON!"

You're right Tall! I sure wish I could figure a way to keep my TV from turning off the box---d@mn firewire. I don't always remember to turn the box back on afterwards....

Originally posted by brianbes
Also I have two TV's split with the 6412 on one line and a regular box on the other, asked the tech if you need a special splitter when using HD, he said no. Is that true? The splitter must be able to support the full bandwidth of the digital cable signal. Most digital cable systems now use about 850 MHz of bandwidth, so you generally need a splitter that handles 1 GHz. Some older splitters, pre-dating digital cable, do not have adequate bandwidth. The reason I know this is that when I first had Comcast turn on my service, the digital cable box had all kinds of flaky behavior. The technician tracked it down to an old splitter in the attic. When he replaced that, everything cleared up fine.

Hey All,

New to this forum, and I had a quick question.

I'm currently a Dish subscriber, and was planning on getting the 921 after the latest sw release. Unfortunately, it has been announced that they have no plans to add Name-based recording as a feature, nor will they offer support once they go to MPEG-4. So, I've decided that I've had enough with dish, and am thinking about going with Comcast.

My questions is this: I will be hooking up my 6412 via DVI to my 16:9 sony HDTV. My TV locks it's aspect ratio to "full" anytime it is receiving a high def or prog. scan signal.

How does the 6412 handle sending signals that are not high-def to your set? Basically, will my TV allow for aspect ratio changes when it's not receiving a 16:9 signal? Or does the motorola box do some sort of stretching of its own? Does anyone know?

Thanks in advance for your help! My appologies if this has already been discussed, but I couldn't make my way through all 60+ pages of this post to find it.

Originally posted by cohall
Hey All,

New to this forum, and I had a quick question.

I'm currently a Dish subscriber, and was planning on getting the 921 after the latest sw release. Unfortunately, it has been announced that they have no plans to add Name-based recording as a feature, nor will they offer support once they go to MPEG-4. So, I've decided that I've had enough with dish, and am thinking about going with Comcast.

My questions is this: I will be hooking up my 6412 via DVI to my 16:9 sony HDTV. My TV locks it's aspect ratio to "full" anytime it is receiving a high def or prog. scan signal.

How does the 6412 handle sending signals that are not high-def to your set? Basically, will my TV allow for aspect ratio changes when it's not receiving a 16:9 signal? Or does the motorola box do some sort of stretching of its own? Does anyone know?

Thanks in advance for your help! My appologies if this has already been discussed, but I couldn't make my way through all 60+ pages of this post to find it.

I have the Sony 55WF and all HD comes in 16:9 and all SD comes in 4:3. Everything on the 6412 is at the default settings and the TV has the '4:3 Default' setting turned to 'On'.

OK, thanks. I read the manual over at motorola's website, and it looks like you can set non-HD output to be 480i, which would allow for my TV to use it's own stretch mode.

1 other question:

How does the PQ of digital cable via the 6412 compare to that of Dish network, on non-HD material? Did I read somewhere that channels below #100 are analog? Do they look horrible?

Thanks again.

Originally posted by cohall
Hey All,

New to this forum, and I had a quick question.

I'm currently a Dish subscriber, and was planning on getting the 921 after the latest sw release. Unfortunately, it has been announced that they have no plans to add Name-based recording as a feature, nor will they offer support once they go to MPEG-4. So, I've decided that I've had enough with dish, and am thinking about going with Comcast.

My questions is this: I will be hooking up my 6412 via DVI to my 16:9 sony HDTV. My TV locks it's aspect ratio to "full" anytime it is receiving a high def or prog. scan signal.

How does the 6412 handle sending signals that are not high-def to your set? Basically, will my TV allow for aspect ratio changes when it's not receiving a 16:9 signal? Or does the motorola box do some sort of stretching of its own? Does anyone know?

Thanks in advance for your help! My appologies if this has already been discussed, but I couldn't make my way through all 60+ pages of this post to find it.

SD output on the 6412 can be set to 480i, 480p, stretch (16:9), or left alone.

Originally posted by cohall
How does the PQ of digital cable via the 6412 compare to that of Dish network, on non-HD material? Did I read somewhere that channels below #100 are analog? Do they look horrible?

Analog PQ stinks. You can use the "Search this Thread" box at the top to read all about it.

Originally posted by cohall
OK, thanks. I read the manual over at motorola's website, and it looks like you can set non-HD output to be 480i, which would allow for my TV to use it's own stretch mode.

1 other question:

How does the PQ of digital cable via the 6412 compare to that of Dish network, on non-HD material? Did I read somewhere that channels below #100 are analog? Do they look horrible?

Thanks again.

THere are two kinds of non HD material that the 6412 receives. Analog and digital SD material. The SD digital material is watchable in most cases, almost pleasant in some cases. The SD analog is most of the time, pretty poor quality.

Originally posted by kwkarth
THere are two kinds of non HD material that the 6412 receives. Analog and digital SD material. The SD digital material is watchable in most cases, almost pleasant in some cases. The SD analog is most of the time, pretty poor quality.

Ok. thanks.

So, is it that channels 100 and up are the digital channels, and below are the analog channels?

Would it make sense then to always watch the local affiliates on their HD channels, as they are above channel 100?

What type of output is there if you are watching a local HD channel, which is not currently showing a program in HD?

Thanks and sorry for all the newbie questions.

Originally posted by cohall
Ok. thanks.

So, is it that channels 100 and up are the digital channels, and below are the analog channels?

Would it make sense then to always watch the local affiliates on their HD channels, as they are above channel 100?

What type of output is there if you are watching a local HD channel, which is not currently showing a program in HD?

Thanks and sorry for all the newbie questions.
You are correct. Today the channels below 100 are analog and some of them aren't too bad as far as SD quality goes.

The local affiliates with the exception of CBS are all available in HD, even though a lot of their programming is not true HD, it is broadcast as a crappy signal up-converted. ;)

In all fairness to the local affiliates, their signal quality has improved a lot over the past year, but when an HD channel is broadcasting crappy material, that's exactly what you see. ;) Can't make a silk purse out of a sow's ear.

Hey, don't be sorry for the questions at all. Most of us are newbies here and that what this forum is all about, sharing the knowledge and discoveries we collectively gather.

Another newbie post:

My box was installed Saturday. A couple of times something screwy has happened: I've paused a show, and after about 5 minutes 1) it goes to live and 2) the prior part of the show is wiped out of the buffer.

I searched the forum (sorry, haven't had the time yet to read through all 61 pages) and couldn't find this problem discussed.

Is this a known problem? Any solution? Do I have a bad box? Obviously this is distressing, and kind of undermines the whole purpose of the thing.'

Note: This is hitting pause on live TV that is NOT being recorded. I guess I could just hit record for everything I know I'm going to stick with. . . . is that what I'm supposed to be doing?

Well, some areas have CBS HD, while some may not. Football on CBS in HD is great.

Analog channels look like pure, unadulterated garbage....and the bigger your tv, the worse it looks.

Hopefully at some point Comcast will go all digital (I'm not sure if the all digital laws by 2006 or whenever applies to dish and cable or if it's only for OTA).

Edit:

oops, no wonder it was not working. I think I have the 6412 with mstv, not iguide. and the swap, skip are not in the mstv version. Sorry for the bandwidth


What a great thread.....

I have been having problems getting my RS 15-1994 setup to run the dvr. The two last things are the switch and skip functions. I have them entered into the remote, using IR and a jp1 cable. But nothing happens when I press them. I have also manually programmed them to a key on the silver remote that comes with the box and still no go. Is there a specific version of the pvr software that is needed for this to work? If so how do I check my version?

Sorry if these have already been covered. I have searched the thread, but could not find the info.

Thanks in advance.

--pat

zooey91

You cannot pause for unlimited time. Supposedly you should be able to pause a digital channel for 90 minutes, an analog channel for 45 minutes and an HD channel for only 15 minutes. The 5 minutes is not normal. When you exceed the pause limit, I believe the DVR starts playing from the beginning of the remaining cache (where you paused it).

Here's a real mystery. Hope someone can help. I had the 6412 installed yesterday. I am a platinum plus subsciber- means I should be getting all the non-PPV channels. I get all the analog channels, and I also do get Discovery HD, and ABC-HD, NBC-HD, CBS-HD, and WHYY-HD (PBS-HD), but don't get any of the 100 -200 channel numbers (none of the digital channels), or any of the other HD channels like HBO-HD, STARZ-HD, Cinemax-HD, or INHD, or INHD-2. They all say "one moment please" but nothing happens even waiting for hours. I called Comcast and they sent a signal - nothing changed, same reception problem.

I had the 6408 (and still do) and it gets all these channels using the same cable wire from the wall. I swapped out the 6412 at the local Comcast this a.m. and installed another 6412 and still get the same weird channel reception behavior. Any ideas? Why would the 6408 get all these channels and the 6412 not get most digital channels (but it does get some digital channels)????????

as far as I know the pvr software isn't an issue for these buttons. I used them before and after the iguide was implemented. Make sure you use the 5 digit code on the silver remote.

To review
1) Press the "Cable" button at the top of the remote.
2) Press and hold the "Setup" button until the "Cable"
button blinks twice.
3) Enter 994. The "Cable" button will blink twice
4) Press (don't hold) the "Setup" button
5) Enter 00173 (for 30 second Skip) or 00236 (for
Swap).
6) Press whatever button you want to map the skip or
swap function to.

Pat ... I live down in CA, but thought that they were using the Microsoft guide up in WA. If so, try this thread:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&postid=4847885#post4847885

Just be careful when programming the keys. Here are the instructions (from another poster) again:


=======================================
Originally posted by avic
[B]1) Press the "Cable" button at the top of the remote.
2) Press and hold the "Setup" button until the "Cable" button blinks twice.
3) Enter 994. The "Cable" button will blink twice
4) Press (don't hold) the "Setup" button
5) Enter 00236 (code for Swap, 00173 Skip).
6) Press whatever button you want to map the swap function to. i used the "tv/vcr input" button since it has no real function.

===================================

Down here in CA they are giving out remotes with the SWAP button, you may want to go in and get a new remote.

nhey-

Did Comcast "hit" your new box? Sounds like they didn't throw the switch correctly. I think I've read of multiple hits being sent before...not sure.

I don't ask for unlimited pause, just something more reasonable than 5 minutes.

So you say it's not normal . . . , has anybody else encountered this problem? Was there a fix other than replacing the box?

Originally posted by nhey
Here's a real mystery. Hope someone can help. I had the 6412 installed yesterday. I am a platinum plus subsciber- means I should be getting all the non-PPV channels. I get all the analog channels, and I also do get Discovery HD, and ABC-HD, NBC-HD, CBS-HD, and WHYY-HD (PBS-HD), but don't get any of the 100 -200 channel numbers (none of the digital channels), or any of the other HD channels like HBO-HD, STARZ-HD, Cinemax-HD, or INHD, or INHD-2. They all say "one moment please" but nothing happens even waiting for hours. I called Comcast and they sent a signal - nothing changed, same reception problem.

I had the 6408 (and still do) and it gets all these channels using the same cable wire from the wall. I swapped out the 6412 at the local Comcast this a.m. and installed another 6412 and still get the same weird channel reception behavior. Any ideas? Why would the 6408 get all these channels and the 6412 not get most digital channels (but it does get some digital channels)???????? It can take as long as an entire day for a new box to download all the program data. Do you get anything on channel 1, the video-on-demand channel? If so, can you select and watch a VOD show?

Thanks for the replies guys, yes i have the mstv version! My mistake. Thanks for pointing me in the right direction.

--pat

Yes, I can access VOD on channel 1 but still can't get the channels mentioned in my message above. I had my original box installed at around 1 p.m. yesterday, and had it until 10 a.m. today and the missing channels didn't work.

Originally posted by nhey
Yes, I can access VOD on channel 1 but still can't get the channels mentioned in my message above. I had my original box installed at around 1 p.m. yesterday, and had it until 10 a.m. today and the missing channels didn't work. Hmmm. You've got all the channels you would get with Comcast's "basic [analog] service." (Believe it or not, that service includes retransmission of HD digital channels broadcast in your area.) Sounds like the lack of other channels is a "conditional access" problem. If so, there's nothing wrong with your 6412. The cable headend (the office at the other end of the cable coming into your home) needs to reconfigure your account for your new box's ID to enable it for the missing "digital platinum" content. Not sure if that can be done over the phone, or if it requires a tech. I suggest calling Comcast technical support if you haven't already done so.

Originally posted by stevehof
Hmmm. You've got all the channels you would get with Comcast's "basic [analog] service." (Believe it or not, that service includes retransmission of HD digital channels broadcast in your area.) Sounds like the lack of other channels is a "conditional access" problem. If so, there's nothing wrong with your 6412. The cable headend (the office at the other end of the cable coming into your home) needs to reconfigure your account for your new box's ID to enable it for the missing "digital platinum" content. Not sure if that can be done over the phone, or if it requires a tech. I suggest calling Comcast technical support if you haven't already done so.

You're correct. I had the same problem when Comcast gave swapped out and gave me an HD box and then when I got the 6412. Comcast needs to enable those channels on their headend. Just call comcast and let them know the problem. In my situation comcast did it over the phone. They were able to "hit" my box so I was able to get VOD and my digital channels, I also had to power cycle my box though. Have comcast "hit" your box first and then power cycle the box and then all should be ok.

Originally posted by nhey
I get all the analog channels, and I also do get Discovery HD, and ABC-HD, NBC-HD, CBS-HD, and WHYY-HD (PBS-HD), but don't get any of the 100 -200 channel numbers (none of the digital channels), or any of the other HD channels like HBO-HD, STARZ-HD, Cinemax-HD, or INHD, or INHD-2.

Same thing happened to me. I called Comcast and they said the tech hadn't closed out the service call before he left. They asked me to wait half an hour to see if he would close it out on his own, which I agreed to. Sure enough, within 30 minutes all the HD channels started to appear.

Originally posted by maximum360
Hopefully at some point Comcast will go all digital (I'm not sure if the all digital laws by 2006 or whenever applies to dish and cable or if it's only for OTA).

The problem is, if they go all digital, what quality will the former analog channels be? If it's anything like the non-movie or HD digital channels, that typically means VHS resolution, or worse. I get AMC on both analog and digital, and the digital, while cleaner, is noticeably fuzzier.

andyross63> The problem is, if they go all digital, what quality will the former analog channels be?

The theory is that the Analog->MPEG-2 conversion would be done by Comcast at their end much better than it is in the 6412. I can attest to the poor quality of this encoding relative to various other encoders I'm very familiar with. I've used an ATI eHome PCI card, a Hauppauge PVR-250 PCI card, and a Sasem OnAir USB2 HDTV box all in a PC hooked up to Comcast Analog Cable here in the SF Bay Area. All of these did a much better job encoding the Analog signal that the 6412.

In the case of the ATI eHome and Hauppauge PVR-250 PCI cards, I found it necessary to adjust Saturation, Contrast, and Brightness settings to optimize the MPEG-2 encoding process. These adjustments made a huge difference! Hopefully, that's all that's needed to improve the 6412's encoding - I just don't see a way to adjust it from the remote control.

I don't notice any major difference between my TV's built-in tuner (Sony KV-30XBR910) and the box on analog channels. The box is maybe a tiny bit softer, but nowhere near as much as the digital version of AMC. Also, most of the 'basic' digital channels like BBC America, the various Discovery networks, etc.. are all very soft. Monty Python on BBC America looks like a 3rd generation VHS copy. The ones available through OnDemand almost look like DVD copies.

On the other hand, I have used the service menu to turn off or reduce some of the over-boosting in some of the modes. Many TV's, especially HDTV's, try to boost sharpness on RF and SD signals alot, and may have less boost on component or other video inputs. That can have an effect on how 'noisy' a signal looks.

Originally posted by markjrenna
Comcast NJ - Union/Verona

YES! Exactly! That is my problem. So now we are up to three with this problem.

Anyone else out there willing to play around with "Series Recording" and "Priority List" menus and make settings changes???

I'm beginning to think this is an i-Guide bug and not the 6412.

I am also having this problem. Just read through this thread for the first time. I have 16 series recordings set up and when ever I want to change the priority list it freezes when I confirm the change. The only way to fix is to unplug. You then have to wait several hours for the guide to reload. Has anyone talked to comcast about this? I have been waiting to call because I am tired of talking to their tech support.

Jeff

Just wondering how far out does everyone's guide listings go out? I'm getting only 4 days here but Comcast says it will be 30 days by the end of the month.

Also can anyone recommend a good under $20 programmable remote? I didn't get the silver remote. I hear the "oneforall" remotes are good.

Originally posted by tall1
I think we should change the title of this thread to, "Official Comcast 6412 w/ iGuide Discussion RE: LEAVE THE DAMN BOX ON!"

I must be odd man out. Since most of the stuff I record is during the day while I am at work or late at night when I'm asleep, it is rare for me to see the MUTE bug. Being able to use the All ON/OFF is more important to me...

On 12-20-04 12:47 AM, BullittMustang wrote:

I had this happen one time. I unplugged the box for 30 seconds. When I plugged it back in it worked again. It has been fine ever since and it never did it again.

Ahhh! Thank you! I was going crazy trying to figure out how to fix trhis glitch. I just unplugged the cable box for 30 seconds, and when I turned it on this time, there was picture and sound, just like there's supposed to be. I hope it won't take more than a few hours to download the guide listings, I had it set up to grab NYPD Blue. I unplugged it at 6:30 PM, so if they come back by 857 or so, I should be fine.

Or does the damned silly thing record a show even if it's not listed?

Question, is anyone happy with this thing? I just ordered it for installation in early January, but after reading the last few pages of this thread, I'm tempted to just stick with my regular HDTV Cable box, and wait until these large assortment of bugs are ironed out.

You can perform a manual record of the channel you want and record it for the length of time you want as well. This may be a safegaurd just in case the Iguide does not upload before your recording is set to start.

Originally posted by bluecow
Question, is anyone happy with this thing? I just ordered it for installation in early January, but after reading the last few pages of this thread, I'm tempted to just stick with my regular HDTV Cable box, and wait until these large assortment of bugs are ironed out.

I think there are allot of people happy with it. I am! I just think you'll here allot more bitching than praising.

Originally posted by strider209
Just wondering how far out does everyone's guide listings go out? I'm getting only 4 days here but Comcast says it will be 30 days by the end of the month.

Also can anyone recommend a good under $20 programmable remote? I didn't get the silver remote. I hear the "oneforall" remotes are good.

I get 2 weeks here in dallas.

I am very happy with the one for all urc-6131. It has a great pvr button layout and i have customized it via the jp1 interface with my computer. Of course, you can use the built in codes. But for ultimate customizability, I'd recommend buying one packaged with a jp1 cable.

Originally posted by Couch Patato
I think there are allot of people happy with it. I am! I just think you'll here allot more bitching than praising.
True, I need to remember that about these boards...they are fantastic for solving problems, but because people are looking to get their problems solved, it scares me that every product has a major defect...but the ones looking for help, are a very small percentage.

also remember that this thing won't cost you anything. If it does not work get a new one. Yea, some people have to take off work for the service calls & stuff. It is frustrating if you get a few STB's that are defective but your not paying for it. Comcast & Motorola are

People have to remember that these things are basically computers.

Originally posted by Kaiser-Soze
I must be odd man out. Since most of the stuff I record is during the day while I am at work or late at night when I'm asleep, it is rare for me to see the MUTE bug. Being able to use the All ON/OFF is more important to me...

I guess I'm the odd woman out, too, then.. I just programmed the UNMUTE in my remote, and if I turn on the box, and I see it say mute at the top, I hit the button, and voila... unmuted. How hard is that.

BTW... I'm loving this thing. :) No problems *knocks on wood* for me.

Update on my HELP NEEDED POST:

Just to recap - Here's a real mystery. Hope someone can help. I had the 6412 installed Monday. I am a platinum plus subsciber- means I should be getting all the non-PPV channels. I get all the analog channels, and I also do get Discovery HD, and ABC-HD, NBC-HD, CBS-HD, and WHYY-HD (PBS-HD), but don't get any of the 102 -200 channel numbers (none of the digital channels), or any of the other HD channels like HBO-HD, STARZ-HD, Cinemax-HD, or INHD, or INHD-2. They all say "one moment please" but nothing happens even waiting for hours. I called Comcast and they sent a signal - nothing changed, same reception problem.

I have the 6408 in another room (and still do) and it gets all the HD and digital channels. I swapped out the 6412 at the local Comcast yesterday a.m. and installed another 6412 and still get the same weird channel reception behavior. Any ideas? Why would the 6408 get all these channels and the 6412 not get most digital channels (but it does get some digital channels)????????
UPDATE: Still doesn't work. I've spoken to Comcast and they made sure they have the correct box serial number. They also sent a signal again. I pulled the plug and then powered the box back on again. Still receiving Discovery HD, and ABC-HD, NBC-HD, CBS-HD, and WHYY-HD (PBS-HD), but don't get any of the 100 -200 channel numbers (none of the digital channels), or any of the other HD channels like HBO-HD, STARZ-HD, Cinemax-HD, or INHD, or INHD-2. Any other ideas? A tech is coming to the house tomorrow but curious as to any guesses about what's going on here.

I am a current TiVo devotee but am intrigued at the evident availability of the dual tuner 6412 cable box from Comcast in Chicago.

If I understand my forum research, Chicago Comcast uses TVGuide software (whereas in other places in the country Comcast uses the Microsoft product which is cosiderably better...).

My main reason for considering getting the Comcast PVR is the asumption that it's recording quality will be better than TiVo for shows other than HD programming. While it will be great to be able to record HD programming and enjoy the HD picture (which I never get to do now, since I so rarely ever watch live television), still the vast majority of my PVR use will be for non-HD programming.

So, can anyone tell me this: comparing TiVo and the Comcast 6412 (on their highest quality settings), is there an improvement in picture quality?

(I have a 50" HD Plasma and do notice a significant difference between a Tivo recording and the same program live).

The improvement you will see with a comcast dvr vs your analog Tivo is like night and day. To me, it's sad that Tivo never jumped on the HD Cable bandwagon. Tivo's mismanagement "at the top" will likely lead to a even far worse financial forecast for 2005 than they have experienced in the past. Tivo's software is top notch and I absolutely love it, but as a HD Digital cable subscriber, sadly Tivo isn't a option. My only hope is that Tivo will be bought out by a major company like Sony or Comcast. The DCT6412 is a great DVR and the HD quality is beautiful. 2005 will be the year the HD cable DVRs from Comcast, Sony and others steal even more Tivo customers away, and they will have no one to blame except their own execs who failed to "wake up and smell the coffee" concerning the potential HD cable market. Harry

Originally posted by RGHessel
If I understand my forum research, Chicago Comcast uses TVGuide software (whereas in other places in the country Comcast uses the Microsoft product which is cosiderably better...).


Actually, Comcast uses TV Guide's (Gemstar) i-Guide software on the 6412 almost everywhere. Washington state is the only area that gets the MSTV Foundation software. It seems I have read about small pockets of it being deployed elsewhere, but I am not so sure about that. I know that the vast majority of Comcast's coverage area has i-Guide. I don't know how the two software versions stack up, but I don't think the difference is all that great. Both of them blow away the old (pre-i-Guide) TV Guide s/w. I know I am anxious to get i-Guide, even on my 6208, until I can get the 6412 in my area.

-Randy

Originally posted by nhey
Update on my HELP NEEDED POST:

Just to recap - Here's a real mystery. Hope someone can help. I had the 6412 installed Monday. I am a platinum plus subsciber- means I should be getting all the non-PPV channels. I get all the analog channels, and I also do get Discovery HD, and ABC-HD, NBC-HD, CBS-HD, and WHYY-HD (PBS-HD), but don't get any of the 102 -200 channel numbers (none of the digital channels), or any of the other HD channels like HBO-HD, STARZ-HD, Cinemax-HD, or INHD, or INHD-2. They all say "one moment please" but nothing happens even waiting for hours. I called Comcast and they sent a signal - nothing changed, same reception problem.

I have the 6408 in another room (and still do) and it gets all the HD and digital channels. I swapped out the 6412 at the local Comcast yesterday a.m. and installed another 6412 and still get the same weird channel reception behavior. Any ideas? Why would the 6408 get all these channels and the 6412 not get most digital channels (but it does get some digital channels)????????
UPDATE: Still doesn't work. I've spoken to Comcast and they made sure they have the correct box serial number. They also sent a signal again. I pulled the plug and then powered the box back on again. Still receiving Discovery HD, and ABC-HD, NBC-HD, CBS-HD, and WHYY-HD (PBS-HD), but don't get any of the 100 -200 channel numbers (none of the digital channels), or any of the other HD channels like HBO-HD, STARZ-HD, Cinemax-HD, or INHD, or INHD-2. Any other ideas? A tech is coming to the house tomorrow but curious as to any guesses about what's going on here.

nhey,

It sounds like you have the same issue that I had at one time. It is something to do with the "line entries" in your billing that the CSRs put in the PC when they talk to you about the package you have and update your box. You do NOT need a tech to come out, don't waste your time.

Tell the CSR that it's some kind of line entry issue on your billing screen and you know someone who had the same issue. They should be able to figure it out, they did for me. Ask them to get a supervisor to help if need be.

I thinks it's something like the 6412 has to be listed first as the primary box on the account or something like that.

Good Luck:)!!!

Originally posted by bluecow
Question, is anyone happy with this thing? I just ordered it for installation in early January, but after reading the last few pages of this thread, I'm tempted to just stick with my regular HDTV Cable box, and wait until these large assortment of bugs are ironed out. Comcast NJ - Union/Verona

I am elated with the 6412 and i-Guide. The best comparison is the dual tuner DirecTV Tivo unit. That may be the best but the 6412/i-Guide isn't too far behind. Remember no HD and that is a big minus. Unless you want to spend nearly a grand for the HD Tivo (DirecTV only).

There are some bugs but I hear there is a new version of the i-Guide coming soon. Hopefully most bugs are ironed out.

Personal wish list...

The 6412 just needs "multi room" - and that is coming in 2005. "Wishlist" would be an awesome addition, more advanced Search capabilities, and "Internet scheduling" would be nice. Other than that you could go on and on about minor differences but the overall 6412/i-Guide package is sweet. Once Comcast gets their Digital Simulcasting in place then things will be even better.

I recommend starting with the 6412/i-Guide first. If you hate it, and I don't think you will, then go to DirecTV.

Originally posted by strider209
Just wondering how far out does everyone's guide listings go out? I'm getting only 4 days here but Comcast says it will be 30 days by the end of the month.

Also can anyone recommend a good under $20 programmable remote? I didn't get the silver remote. I hear the "oneforall" remotes are good. Comcast NJ - Union/Verona

Mine goes out 15 days. 30 days? Really? I didn't hear that. Awesome if it does.