SA 8300 HD Tips & Tricks -- SARA [Text View] - Page 13

foghorn2

06-09-06, 09:44 AM

vegggas,

I thought of that, but the way you made it sound was like everyone had a fixed version. ;)

foghorn2,

You are right. If you don't have that software, then it is not fixed for you. But, I still don't understand the paranoia and conspiracy theories. It is fixed in newer software and you will eventually get it, and it still wasn't broken by any cableco. Obviously I missed some inside humor between you and vegggas. :)

Anyway, what's the deal with Sprint? Have I misssed something?

Its been over a year now and still no fix. As for Sprint, they now have million dollar deals with Cox, will have Cox kiosks in their sprint stores, will allow Cox DVR access from their phones, changed the local phone name to Embarq and claim they are a competitor to COX! NO MR from Cox or a copy to VCR fix for over a year but I will be able to view my sa8300dvr stuff on a Sprint phone.

Do you see why I'm not happy?

tcat

06-09-06, 10:18 AM

I managed to get an SD movie recorded through "copy to VCR" (output2-Svideo) to my E80H DVD recorder, then to DVD-R. I tried all the suggestions about putting the 8300 in 480i mode and "A" (4:3) mode, but ended up getting the best picture in it's normal HD mode. What's odd is it fills the screen in "Full" mode, and seems to get a little better looking in "Just" mode (both modes seem to have the same content). PQ looks almost as good as a DVD on my 42PX60U, but looks bad on a 4:3 36" set. Image fills screen (I think R&L sides are cut off) but has scan lines on the SD set, may just be the old DVD player on that set.

I still can't seem to get a good "HD" (480i) recording without top and bottom bars. When zoomed it looks "fair" but not worth making a disk of. Can't wait for a $300 HD recorder that will record 5.1 audio. Think I'll just buy a 300g HD to add to the DVR, and just copy SD stuff to disk.

telemike

06-09-06, 12:26 PM

foghorn2

06-09-06, 12:55 PM

The COPY TO VCR will always send a 480i signal from the OUT2 jacks. If the program was an HD 16:9 program on the DVR, the SA8300HD will LETTERBOX the widescreen show to have the correct aspect ratio for SD 480i 4:3 standard.

Dish just lowered their lease upgrade fee for the Vip622 (HD DVR) which does allow you to view recorded programs to another box with just one cable wire (agile modulated) and only one box with 2 remotes for a lot less now. Looks like Charlie is reading this board. One more price drop and the SA8300HD will be history.

Meanwhile its been years for the kick out to live, copy to vcr, 4:3 guide, HDMI problems to be fixed.

But soon you will be able to watch your sa8300 stuff on your Sprint (Cox's enemy) phone. Simply amazing!

tcat

06-09-06, 12:58 PM

Think I get it...

HD show > Out2 > 480i > black bars embedded in image - which E80H passes through, therefore bars show up on 16:9 screen no matter what (only get rid with large zoom which looks bad).

SD show > Out2 > 480i (maybe) > no black bars, and since E80H formats to 4:3, it shows up Full screen on a 16:9 screen, and looks good.

It's all very confusing, but if you keep experimenting, eventually something looks right, with good PQ. Sure be nice if the next STB came with a DVD slot. If they let you attach a 2nd hard drive for recording, why not an internal DVD recorder? Probably as cheap to make and would be VERY popular.

foghorn2

06-09-06, 12:58 PM

vandu

06-09-06, 05:41 PM

I have two 8300 DVRs on different TVs. My main TV has an 8300 connected via HDMI and it has an external SATA drive . After receiving the latest firmware (1.88.17.a100) on my main TV, I can not switch back and forth between TV inputs without loosing my DVR signal. In order to get the signal back I have to reboot the DVR (also tried a hard reboot). I tried switching my DVRs and the second DVR, which does not have an external SATA drive but does have the 1.88.17.a100 firmware, works fine over HDMI. I disconnected the SATA drive from the problem DVR and got the same loss of signal after switching inputs. The technician I spoke to at TWC said they can’t do a repeat of the firmware upgrade on the problem DVR and my only option is to have the DVR replaced. Has anyone else out there received the 1.88.17.a100 upgrade that is using HDMI and has an external SATA drive? My only option at this point, which isn’t very appealing to me, is to clean out the SATA drive and have the DVR replaced.

RussB

06-09-06, 06:55 PM

Charlie_Phogg

06-09-06, 07:23 PM

fixed in newer software and you will eventually get it,
I wouldn't hold my breathe waiting for it though. I've had the 8300HD over a year and it still has every one of the software train wrecks that it had when I picked up a year ago May. If you are lucky enough to be with the right cableco you may eventually get upgraded but my bet is some of them will stick with 1.87.xxxx for a long time to come.

foghorn2

06-09-06, 07:53 PM

I wouldn't hold my breathe waiting for it though. I've had the 8300HD over a year and it still has every one of the software train wrecks that it had when I picked up a year ago May. If you are lucky enough to be with the right cableco you may eventually get upgraded but my bet is some of them will stick with 1.87.xxxx for a long time to come.

Like the one of the posters said above, that broken version serves their purpose. If they put out a new one without the fix, that means they like it broken on purpose, if it is fixed, we get what we want and they get less boxes rented. They are in a pickle and I'm waiting for them to surprise me.

Vegggas, can you get rid of that damned cone of silence?
Defend your idols and masters and tell us when do we get the Copy to VCR fix or MR? It's been over a year now.

trapperjohn2000

06-09-06, 08:37 PM

DoubleDAZ

06-09-06, 09:00 PM

foghorn2

06-09-06, 09:13 PM

I could be wrong, but I believe the current MR (software?) is not compatible with OCAP and that is why it has not been deployed.

1.88.x.x is on track to be released here this month. I won't be so bold as to say it will definitely happen, after all testing is still in progress, but I see nothing to indicate there is anything that will stop it at this point.

It's unfortunate SA moves so rapidly into new versions before cableco's have even been able to certify previous versions. I can't fault a cableco for using the most stable version until they are convinced a newer version isn't going to break more than it fixes. Sadly, that has meant continuing problems for some users. I just don't understand the paranoia aspect of some comments. Maybe you'd feel better if you had a working Copy To VCR function and were putting up with the other problems caused by the interim versions. I'll gladly give up that function to continue getting all my recordings, etc., but that's just me. :)

As for vegggas commenting more, did it ever occur to you that maybe he can't?

Yeah, but he has been teasing us for a long time now!

You mean it takes Cox (and others) YEARS, not months, repeat YEARS to certify. By this time the unit may be already replaced or obsolete.

Also quit using the word paranoia. THe only use for that word here is in reference to supporters of the cable co's and the 8300HD paranoia that anyone will expose their short cummings. As for "conspiracy theories", making lots of and lots of money in itself requires conspiracies. So there :p

DoubleDAZ

06-09-06, 09:40 PM

ls1115

06-09-06, 10:54 PM

I just got an SA 8300 HD from my local cable company. I tried recording from the Firewire output into my Mac Powerbook (with external Firewire hard drive). I did get picture and sound, but with lots of glitches all over the picture on both premium and basic channels.

From this thread I learned how to access the service menu on the SA 8300 and found that under Copy Protection it lists "disabled" next to IE 1394. Does that mean that the copy protection is disabled (NICE!!) or that the Firewire port is diabled? I imagine there would be no output at all on a disabled port, but I do get a picture -with dropouts and multicolored squares here and there, but still a picture with sound.

I asked the local service reps at the cable co. No one knows what Firewire -or even HDMI is!!

Any ideas?

Luis

DoubleDAZ

06-09-06, 11:08 PM

Firewire support is not available on the 8300 until your cableco releases version 1.88.x.x of the software. You can find the version number on page 3 of the diagnostics (service menu).

ls1115

06-09-06, 11:15 PM

Thanks, Dave. I'm stuck at 1.87.32.1
So I guess what I'm getting is what a disabled Firewire port looks like.

But the "none" under copy protection sure looks nice!...

Luis

DoubleDAZ

06-10-06, 12:17 AM

foghorn2

06-10-06, 01:02 AM

:) Ok, I'll stop calling you paranoid, but come on now, it hasn't been YEARS, though it's been more than one since we got a software update. But, there have been quite a few revisions during that time and they've had to go back to the beginning with each one. Just when they were getting ready to release 1.88.16.1 here, along comes 1.88.19.1 and we start over. :( They may still release 1.88.16.1, testing was pretty far along from what I understand, and then release 1.88.19.1 when testing is complete. It's a crappy process to be sure and one that they hope will get better with OCAP and more competition in the cable DVR market. Quite frankly, with OCAP coming, I'm surprised we are getting any releases at all right now, I assume they were simply in the pipeline.

Ok, 'yous in Aridzona and me in las vegas. We have not seen a change for over a year.

As for open cable, well it may be closing because switched digital may be the way they are going. They may be using "bandwith problems" as an excuse to kill the prospect of us using our own DVRS and boxes.

The pattern is there. And the conspiracy is not from our end.

foghorn2

06-10-06, 01:13 AM

Thanks, Dave. I'm stuck at 1.87.32.1
So I guess what I'm getting is what a disabled Firewire port looks like.

But the "none" under copy protection sure looks nice!...

Luis

So the firewire ports don't work right on these boxes? OOOH CONspiracy!!!! :p

Isn't it a mandate for the ports to work? How many years will it take for them to work?

DoubleDAZ

06-10-06, 09:45 AM

They can mandate all they want, but it's up to software folks to make it happen. :p

foghorn2

06-10-06, 09:55 AM

They can mandate all they want, but it's up to software folks to make it happen. :p

What, not enough Indians to make it happen?

Seriously though, I like the SA8300HD. I converted from the DTIVO because of DTVs lack of support of it. Looks like Cox is doing the same now. Too bad.

davehancock

06-10-06, 10:50 AM

Thanks, Dave. I'm stuck at 1.87.32.1
So I guess what I'm getting is what a disabled Firewire port looks like.

But the "none" under copy protection sure looks nice!...

Luis

Luis,

Because the version of SARA is very system (location) dependent, why not include your location in your profile so we all can see where you are. ;)

vandu

06-10-06, 10:55 AM

Vandu-- I have similar problems. I have a 8300HD, connected via HDMI to a Sony RPTV, that just got the firmware update. (No external hard disk.) Whenever I switch inputs on the TV, the video goes out on the 8300. Can only correct by unplugging and replugging the power on the 8300. Before I saw your post, I exchanged units at my cable office (Bright House in Indianapolis). New box does exactly the same as the old. I've switched cables, switched inputs, you name it, same problem. I'm guessing it has something to do with the firmware update, but would be glad to hear others' comments.

I’ve temporarily disconnected the HDMI cable and I’m now able to switch inputs without loosing the DVR signal. As I stated in my earlier post my second DVR works fine with HDMI and the latest firmware. The DVR that works is a newer one with 1394 connectors, which were not enabled with the 1.88.17.a100 firmware. My older DVR (the problem unit) does not have 1394 connectors.

foghorn2

06-10-06, 11:33 AM

foghorn2

06-10-06, 11:36 AM

It would be interesting to see how many users do not have working firewire ports. I know my SA8300HD is not compliant like my SA3250HD.

DoubleDAZ

06-10-06, 09:13 PM

ls1115

06-10-06, 10:01 PM

Don't fret too much, cableco's are finally starting to roll out the 1.88.x.x series, so there is hope. Here they'll let you have it on an individual basis until they roll it out system-wide later this month.
Will pay them a visit. I guess I'll have to explain Firewire to them. Once they get that one down pat, I'll see what can be done about a firmware update....

It pays to be patient!

Luis

DoubleDAZ

06-10-06, 10:46 PM

Don't hold your breath on a firmware update until they are ready. I was shocked when I found out they were releasing it here before it finished their testing, that was a big departure from past practice.

vegggas

06-11-06, 03:57 AM

Cox here releases 1.88.16.1 to individual users who ask for the 1394 support with the understanding that it is not fully tested. This all came about because they released an update for the 3250 that broke 1394 support. It took a few calls to get to someone who would roll back the 3250 software and then they offered the new software for those with 8300s who wanted 1394. So far there have been no problems that I know of.
Same thing here in Vegas, users get test software for 1394, except that many of the past revisions caused some problems with some DVR's, like complete and total lockup, or nightly crashes during power save mode or with external connections.
BTW, firewire ONLY works with 5C compliant devices on the 8300 after it is enabled.
vegggas

DoubleDAZ

06-11-06, 10:36 AM

BTW, firewire ONLY works with 5C compliant devices on the 8300 after it is enabled.It's always necessary to point that out, isn't it? Too many folks think they can just connect anything with a 1394 port and , whoila, record whatever they want. Unfortunately, it simply doesn't work that way. :)

RussB

06-11-06, 05:12 PM

So where is the DVDR DVR from SA? Vaporware? Is it not compatible with cable companies future switched network? Will it not work with a sprint phone? I was hoping to watch my DVDs from it on my sprint phone while driving home from work. :DClick here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7808299&&#post7808299) to see a post about the testing of Scientific Atlanta's MCP-100 HD-DVR w/DVD Recorder in Houston. It will probably be a long time before the MCP-100 is ready to be released.

foghorn2

06-12-06, 12:25 AM

Click here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7808299&&#post7808299) to see a post about the testing of Scientific Atlanta's MCP-100 HD-DVR w/DVD Recorder in Houston. It will probably be a long time before the MCP-100 is ready to be released.

Yeah, maybe never released since it probably not be compatible with the new advanced network that works with Sprint/Cox/Nextel/Embarq telephones.

BlackwaterStout

06-13-06, 07:53 AM

Well it took Adelphia nearly 16 months, but they finally upgraded the SARA software on the 8300 to give me 4X FF/Rewind (Which is a nice improvement), and also gives me the capability to begin watching a recording in progress from the beginning rather than having to rewind from live TV. No more kick out either while time lagging a recording. I can not believe it took this long to fix. They also finally gave me the Force DD output while using HDMI that I've been complaining about for months.

DoubleDAZ

06-13-06, 09:31 AM

Just some FYI.

It didn't take this long to fix those particular things. Cablevision users have had them for well over 6 months, probably closer to a year or so now. The problem, as always, has been adapting the software to all the other cableco's out there without breaking other things and then getting cableco's to use the software. As more subs get into the HD/DVR arena, cableco's are becoming more sensitive to software issues and are more reluctant to release new versions until more thorough in-house testing can be done. They also appear more eager to use in-home beta testers now (at least here) to try to identifiy problems before release and that too has slowed down new releases. We won't get our 1.88.x.x release until mid-July, or later if it slips again. We are in the middle of going all digital and there are just so many resources to go around. :(

One thing I've noticed about the new FF/REW speeds is that it's fairly easy to "type ahead" by hitting FF3, then Play, then FF3 again, etc., and having to wait for the 8300 to "catch up". Of course, this is not a show stopper IMHO, but I can see some cableco's thinking the software is still not ready and not releasing it.

BTW. The front inputs may now also be active.

tcat

06-13-06, 09:54 AM

They also finally gave me the Force DD output while using HDMI that I've been complaining about for months.

What'd they have to do to "force DD"? I use HDMI, and although my XR57 says "Digital 3.2.1", it sure just sounds like stereo most of the time. I've tried optical from SA8300 out to XR57 in, and switching back and forth between HDMI and Optical, and hear no difference. Just not sure if they're both DD or neither is.

BlackwaterStout

06-13-06, 10:12 AM

What'd they have to do to "force DD"? I use HDMI, and although my XR57 says "Digital 3.2.1", it sure just sounds like stereo most of the time. I've tried optical from SA8300 out to XR57 in, and switching back and forth between HDMI and Optical, and hear no difference. Just not sure if they're both DD or neither is.

Well my particular issue was that I was using HDMI for my video feed but I needed to use the digital output for my audio. The old SARA version I had did not allow the digital output to transmit DD 5.1 audio while using HDMI. But the new SARA version has a setting option to send DD5.1 through the digital output rather than the HDMI output. My Onkyo receiver has digital and optical inputs but no HDMI inputs.

bohbot16

06-13-06, 12:44 PM

I’ve temporarily disconnected the HDMI cable and I’m now able to switch inputs without loosing the DVR signal. As I stated in my earlier post my second DVR works fine with HDMI and the latest firmware. The DVR that works is a newer one with 1394 connectors, which were not enabled with the 1.88.17.a100 firmware. My older DVR (the problem unit) does not have 1394 connectors.

At one point someone was able to fix an HDMI sync problem by leaving a coax cable connected from their 8300HD to their TV. There was speculation that it improved the grounding between the units. No one managed to prove anything, but it's an easy (and cheap) way to try out a fix.

telemike

06-13-06, 01:01 PM

I noticed a new "issue" with my 8300HD on TWC-Greensboro. Have not checked the sara version yet. When using the Guide on an HD channel, the small window now shakes only on HD channels. Just started in the past couple weeks.

DEIFan

06-13-06, 09:51 PM

Software push here on Cox in San Diego as well to 1.88.19.1. I've also verified the 4FF/REW speeds and will check on the other thimgs tonight, but I'm sure we have the same changes found in other 1.88.xx.x versions. So far no problems with my 1+ year old SATA drive functionality, nor HDMI issues, and forcing DD with HDMI was fine for me with the older 1.87.16.1. I did notice a different type of "HD" flag in the guide. It is bold black vs. the older yellow notation. Lastly the software version page showed entries for "firebus" and "fbdtcp", but the 1394 page still says not enabled.

foghorn2

06-13-06, 10:57 PM

Unfortunately Cox has not done anything here in Vegas for over a year now and I am finally out of there, for real this time.

No more SA8300HD, good riddens and loving it!
Its a great box don't get me wrong, but cable companies just dont know what to do with them fast enough.

When I was at the local office (they had chairs and tickets just like the DMV!) to turn my boxes in, I noticed many others doing the same. One guy returned 2 3250's, one 2000? and 1 SA8300HD. I asked him why and he told me he hated having to rent all those boxes and heard MR will not be offered! GO figure, thats why I left too! I predict a mass exodus here very soon just like when Rupert got rid of the loyal DTV Tivo subs.

Well I hope you all get your problems fixed. Good luck to you all. We all deserve better.

DoubleDAZ

06-13-06, 11:03 PM

Lastly the software version page showed entries for "firebus" and "fbdtcp", but the 1394 page still says not enabled.Must be a cableco option because mine doesn't say that here in Phoenix. I don't have a 1394 device to check, but they've released this version on an individual basis here specifically for those who wanted 1394 support.

DoubleDAZ

06-13-06, 11:19 PM

One guy returned 2 3250's, one 2000? and 1 SA8300HD. I asked him why and he told me he hated having to rent all those boxes and heard MR will not be offered!So where is he going to go? D*? E*? Even with an MR, you still have to have a box in each room for the MR unit to talk to. All the MR unit really allows you to do is distribute recorded stuff to other rooms. Granted, that would have been nice, but it's certainly not the end of the world, at least not mine.

At any rate, I hope you're happier wherever you decide to go. Maybe they will offer new software or hardware on a monthly basis to keep you happy. :)

foghorn2

06-13-06, 11:43 PM

So where is he going to go? D*? E*? Even with an MR, you still have to have a box in each room for the MR unit to talk to. All the MR unit really allows you to do is distribute recorded stuff to other rooms. Granted, that would have been nice, but it's certainly not the end of the world, at least not mine.

At any rate, I hope you're happier wherever you decide to go. Maybe they will offer new software or hardware on a monthly basis to keep you happy. :)

That would be great, since Cox can't even do that in years! :) :) :) :) :D :p

BTW, my new set has a HD tuner built in. All the money I'll save will go to purchase DVD's to play on the upconverting DVD player. Just got the new Rush Replay DVD today after I turned my 2 boxes in! :)

DoubleDAZ

06-14-06, 12:10 AM

foghorn2

06-14-06, 12:32 AM

So, because Cox hasn't given you new software is a year, you dump them and go OTA only without a DVR and limit yourself to DVDs, is that the gist of it?

Sounds to me like there isn't any provider out there today that would satisfy your need for new software on a regular basis. Let me know when you get a firmware update for your integrated tuner or DVD player, will ya? Oh wait! They don't really DO anything, so no new software needed. :) :p

My integrated tuner and DVD player work like they should. They are not devices with screwed up software like a microsoft PC. Please not be so hurt and bitter over me leaving. At least you can let me go without having to continually throw rocks at me.

DoubleDAZ

06-14-06, 12:59 AM

If I was throwing rocks at you, you'd know it. I'm just pulling your leg because this may be my last chance. Besides, the only one who has thrown any rocks is you and that seems to be all you do when posting in any 8300 threads. Don't get me wrong, there's nothing wrong with that, it's kind of entertaining, just not very helpful to those with questions. :)

But you gotta admit, it is somewhat strange to downgrade to OTA without a DVR simply because you didn't get a software update. Obviously, there is a lot more to your decision.

FWIW, my 8300 works just fine and does what the manual says it will do. I don't complain that it doesn't do things I'd like it to do. I've never missed a recording that wasn't due to an IPG error. I've never lost a recording that I didn't accidently delete. I've never had a recording start late or end early. And now I even get to join a recording in progress and start from the beginning without getting kicked out to live when the recording ends. The only thing I need now are some better search options and a Wishlist, then I could quit using TitanTV for those things. Call me crazy, but I'm pretty satisfied with Cox and the 8300. :D

Anyway, last post on this subject. See you around......maybe.

vegggas

06-14-06, 02:48 AM

exieramos

06-14-06, 04:01 AM

I have also confirmed that the COPY TO VCR function now gives a clean picture! :-) For those of you who have archived using a DVD-Recorder--You won't be making as many coasters because you no longer have to do your archiving when nobody is around or late at night (using Output 2) AND you don't have to hide the remote from the kids! With the new SARA 1.88.19.1 firmware and the latest bug fixes, the SA8300 now does everything I need from it beautifully! Too bad foghorn2 couldn't wait a little longer... :) Actually, foghorn2, with your 'nick' you should move to San Diego. We've been getting a lot of "Fog" here in the mornings but the afternoons are sunny and in the mid 70's, but best of all, COX San Diego has deployed the "fixes" you want! :) We even have our own local HD forum for all the local stations and cable MSO's. It's a great forum with lot's of knowledgeable people posting. However, I do want to warn you that DoubleDaz also visits our local HD forum as well--look out! :)

RemyM

06-14-06, 09:03 AM

Those poor people over at cablevision have been going through public beta testing for almost a year now before getting a somewhat systemwide stable version :eek: Thanks guys! :D
vegggas

I don't know what your talking about. We have had a stable version 1.88.15.2 for 11 months now. There have been a few isolated issues reported, but nothing widespread. The last time we had real big problems was 1 year ago and those problems only lasted 4 weeks.

foghorn2

06-14-06, 09:05 AM

DoubleDAZ

06-14-06, 09:41 AM

However, I do want to warn you that DoubleDaz also visits our local HD forum as well--look out! :)ROTFLMAO! You offer him your forum and then take it right away by telling him that. :)

DoubleDAZ

06-14-06, 09:56 AM

Do 1394 ports put out a compliant signal?They do, folks here are using them, but I don't know if Cox-San Diego has enabled 1394 support.

exieramos

06-14-06, 11:59 AM

Do 1394 ports put out a compliant signal?

I don't have a component that can utilize the 1394 port so I can't check. The 1394 Information screen on page 31 of the diagnostics shows either zeros, undefined or unavailable for all fields except for the "Box EID" field which does have some Hex values stored for it. I don't know if these fields get populated as soon as you plug something in or not so I can't really say if it is working or not. However, FWIW, copy protection for 1394 on page 32 for "Protection Type" and "Enabled" currently show "None". Maybe DEIFan can confirm for you?

exieramos

06-14-06, 12:02 PM

ROTFLMAO! You offer him your forum and then take it right away by telling him that. :)

LoL, That's not like taking candy away from a baby--is it? :D

DoubleDAZ

06-14-06, 01:32 PM

I wonder if something changed for you guys then. Your 1394 page shows the same stuff mine does, but DEIFan over there reports that his 1394 page still says Not Enabled. His post is #3043 earlier in this thread.

DEIFan

06-14-06, 02:31 PM

My bad, it looks the same as exieramos described. I must have seen the Copy Protection page where it said disabled under the Protection Type and Enabled columns for 1394. I also show the 2 hex strings and then unavailable for everything else on the 1394 Information Page.

DoubleDAZ

06-14-06, 02:32 PM

Thanks for double-checking and letting us know. :)

tenguru

06-14-06, 03:07 PM

The "Copy to VCR" bug everyone is talking about was introduced unknowingly by SA in, I think, 1.87.19a. It was fixed, unknowingly by SA in 1.87.27 and later versions. When SA was asked about this problem, they were not aware of the issue, since it was not repeatable on any of their curent versions. I had to have the cable co roll back the code to even see that the problem once existed. The reason it may still exist on some systems is that the cable co is still using it's last known "Stable" version of software and has not verified stability and compatibility for any new versions it has recieved.

vegggas
Is that why were stuck in Vegas... we have the magic 187.16
are you running a diff version and its fixed?

tenguru

06-14-06, 03:10 PM

It's always necessary to point that out, isn't it? Too many folks think they can just connect anything with a 1394 port and , whoila, record whatever they want. Unfortunately, it simply doesn't work that way. :)
Is my pioneer dvd recorder compliant... with front firewire jack?

DoubleDAZ

06-14-06, 04:23 PM

Is my pioneer dvd recorder compliant... with front firewire jack?If you are asking me, I have no idea. The only devices I've read about here are DVHS recorders, but I don't really pay that much attention because I have no desire to start yet another librabry. I'm sure someone with more knowledge will chime in though.

DoubleDAZ

06-14-06, 04:25 PM

Is that why were stuck in Vegas... we have the magic 187.16
are you running a diff version and its fixed?Yes, but I believe vegggas has said you should be getting 1.88.19.1 sometime this month, we get it in July.

vegggas

06-14-06, 06:49 PM

Actually, it's been so long since I've had the stable version, I forgot what it was :eek: I've been testing for quite some time through various field trials - some good, some not so good. If you were in Vegas and remember that the auto shutdown feature was back for a short time, that was because they were trying to fix the newer sofware from crashing each night because it had the auto shutdown. To test the new firmware crashing with auto shutdown, they had to toggle the feature, whereas the STB's without it, suddenly started shutting down at night, and those with test versions stopped shutting down.
I do know that the copy to VCR was fixed in the very next version released by SA, and tracked it back down to around a year ago's release. Unfortuneately, that release caused other problems, so it was not deployed.

vegggas

vegggas

06-14-06, 06:51 PM

Is my pioneer dvd recorder compliant... with front firewire jack?
NO.
The front firewire port of DVD recorders is SPECIFICALLY used for digital transfer from digital camcorders for personal use.

vegggas

ron111

06-14-06, 07:10 PM

I know I'm not seeing things or just didn't press fast-forward or rewind enough times over the past 6 months (lol). I noticed a few days ago that there are now 4 speeds of rewind and fast forward. I noticed the 4 arrows on the bottom of the screen when I accidently pressed the rewind button one more time. The 4th speed is a ROCKET! It jets through a 2 hour movie in the blink of an eye!

Anyone else notice this?

CountryJoe

06-14-06, 07:34 PM

They are 4-8-16-32x. From what I know, it is software version related.

DoubleDAZ

06-14-06, 08:42 PM

Yours may be, but mine are 4-10-30-128. A 2-hour recording took me right at 56 seconds to fly through using FF4. (120m * 60s = 7200s / 128 = 56.25s). :)

DoubleDAZ

06-14-06, 08:47 PM

Anyone else notice this?You don't show a location in your profile (it would be nice if everyone did though :) ), but your cableco must have released version 1.88.x.x of the firmware (software). It includes a number of changes, you can read back a couple of paes, or search for 1.88.x.x, to find them.

ron111

06-14-06, 10:52 PM

You don't show a location in your profile (it would be nice if everyone did though :) ), but your cableco must have released version 1.88.x.x of the firmware (software). It includes a number of changes, you can read back a couple of paes, or search for 1.88.x.x, to find them.

Thanks for the info. In in San Diego and have Cox Cable. LOVE THE FASTER SPEED!!!

DoubleDAZ

06-14-06, 11:13 PM

DEIFan was the first to post that San Diego got the update, perhaps you missed it in post #3043, a page or 2 earlier in this thread. :) There is also some discussion about it in the hdtv.forsandiego forums.

GBertler

06-15-06, 07:36 AM

DoubleDAZ

06-15-06, 09:37 AM

By "compas" I assume you mean the IPG (programming guide). If you suspect that something didn't fully download, I would try a"hard" reboot (instructions are in the first post of this thread). If that doesn't fix things, then perhaps your cableco is having a problem and you need to call them.

vegggas

06-15-06, 10:23 AM

I live in Green Bay, Wisc. and was wondering if anyone had any info as to what software would be coming to the 8300 series. We are at 1.87.16.a109 If you want to record Playboy for instance, you can ony record a show when tuning to that channel. You can't record a show later out in the future, unless it's the same day. Also, we have no compas software as of last night and today after my box rebooted. Doesn't seem to automatically have downloaded it. So no interactive stuff. Of course up here we have the SARA software.

Are you trying to say that you don't have an Interactive Program Guide (IPG)? The IPG is not part of the DVR software, but a function of the cable company to see what is available on all the channels. This is cable basics 101 - using the IPG to select programming. In the IPG, you should be able to browse ahead up to seven days and SELECT any program to record. If you can't browse the guide, then you have cable company problems, not DVR problems. The version of DVR software you have is essentially what the entire country has been running for over a year, without this problem.

vegggas
edit: Actually, I can't think of ANY Cable or SAT company or even DVR or VCR that can't view schedules many days in advance.

v

GBertler

06-15-06, 08:30 PM

What the compas software does is get the caller-id to pop up and interactive features like games, weather, sports stuff.
You get it by hitting the A button on the remote.

vegggas

06-15-06, 08:51 PM

Your compass software is unique to your cable system, not the DVR.
You still didn't respond about how you set up a recording - Are you using the IPG or not?

vegggas

vegggas

06-15-06, 08:59 PM

Actually, re-reading your post, it sounds like your cable system is overriding the SARA software with their own middleware. If you don't have access to the IPG, then you are SOL.
Take a look at the http://www.scientificatlanta.com/explorerclub/ website and join the explorer club. Look at the explorer guides for your model -If your menus don't match those in some of the guides, your cable company is using something else.

vegggas

slimoli

06-15-06, 09:11 PM

vegggas

06-15-06, 09:23 PM

A typical IPG looks like this: Credit off TWC's website (first googled image)
http://www.twc-sa.com/aod/imgs/ipgcircled72.jpg
Note that the bottom has a "B" button that you can change the date. You can SELECT any program in the IPG and record it up to a week in advance - As long as your provider is using SARA for the software and IPG, and not filling the memory with other applications, like caller ID stuff, etc that limit the amount of guide data you can hold.

vegggas

GBertler

06-15-06, 09:42 PM

I can get the IPG, that works fine. I called TWC and a message can on stating they were having probems with the caller-id, etc. When I want to go and record, say a program on Playboy, if I go in the guide, it won't let me record anything, no matter what time it is, because it's a PPV channels also. I told TWC they should have it mapped to a different channel. One Playboy for PPV, and the other for regular monthly subscription. I don't think they liked that. They said they are contacting SA to resolve that issue. I wish we had the passport software, seems to be closer to what Tivo was, when I had Directv. When I stated I can't record things in te future, I was talking about the Playboy channel. Since the SA boxes treat it as a PPV channel, it won't allow you to record something in the future.

davehancock

06-15-06, 10:01 PM

Actually there are some PPV channels that our (TW) system allows you to record in advance - and there are others that you can't record at all. I suspect that it is more related to what the owner of the programmig service is willing to let you do than the cable company (and certainly not related to SA).

RussB

06-16-06, 01:40 AM

Guys, thank you so much for such informative thread.

I have a question about software version. I live in South Florida and have an almost unknown cable : Atlantic Broadband.

I got 2 SA8300 , one shows software version 1.87.27.1 and the other 1.85.20.3 . Is this normal? What causes a software/firmware to be upgraded? My system was installed today and maybe I need to wait for few days?

Thanks again.

SergioThe installer should have made sure both SA8300s were updated to the latest software version that your cable company is using. You can do a hard reboot (see the first post of this thread) on the 1.85.20.3 box and see if a different version is downloaded. If it is later than 1.87.27.1, than do a hard reboot on the 1.87.27.1 box. Good Luck!

foghorn2

06-16-06, 08:56 AM

Yeah, Las Vegas started testing 1.88.19.1 a few months ago, same as San Diego. It looks like they will be releasing it publicly soon too, just like SD and Phoenix. The last few versions have been too buggy for a general release. Those poor people over at cablevision have been going through public beta testing for almost a year now before getting a somewhat systemwide stable version :eek: Thanks guys! :D
As for me - very few problems with my DVR's. So much so, I stopped recording and watching on my Replay units entirely and haven't used them for backup in years. I'm gonna have to ship one off to the inlaws who live out in the boonies with a new expanded cable lineup of about 48 analog channels (up from about 30 last year).
As for Foghorn, He should try USDTV. It's only $20 a month. It gives him his Disney, ESPN, etc. Nevermind that it leeches all the bandwidth off our local stations, of which ALL are multicasting and macroblocking now. He can also enjoy WB and UPN for the next 2 1/2 months until they merge and offer non-HD CW and MyNetwork unmanned stations.

vegggas

USDTV will never be in my home. Look to see who owns them. Actually I'm now a Dish subscriber. They are offering $200 in programming credits which takes care of the lease upgrade fee for the Vip622. It can tune local OTA HD and record it, and record 2 other shows at the same time! It can even serve as a second box by agile modulating the second tuner or recorded shows to another TV!

This is exactly why I was looking for and not to mention the 29 HD channels I get with the other 120 all digital channels, way cheaper than cable. Again, good luck to you all with your SA8300HD, its a great box, but I beleive your cable companies will eventually kill it one day.

tcat

06-16-06, 10:07 AM

Strange, I just switched from Dish to TWC, because TWC was cheaper, because the SA8300 does all those things Dish does (record 2 shows watch anyther), because I couldn't get HD locals OTA, because I got tired of rain outages. I also find the digital channel PQ better (which surprized me). I don't think I'll miss Voom channels. I was a huge Dish fan until I switched a month ago, TWC is WAY better than it was 10 years ago (last time I was on it).

I did drop Road Runner and went to AT&T Pro... it's WAY cheaper and I'm getting faster more consistent speed.

slimoli

06-16-06, 11:59 AM

telemike

06-16-06, 01:34 PM

Anyone else have the flickering preview when you activeate the IPG Guide on an HD channel?

RussB

06-16-06, 03:00 PM

Russb

Thank you for the hint. I did the hard boot but nothing has changed. One thing that I hadn't noticed: The receiver with the "old" software version is a Multi-Room and the other is not. Could it be that the MR receivers have a different software ? I also would like to know if the firewire port is active or not, is there any way to do it?

Thanks

SergioSince one is a Multi-Room box, that could be the reason it has a different version. If both boxes work, it doesn't matter what version they are.

You can look at the diagnostic pages, there was a discussion about firewire in the last few pages of this thread. I think you need version 1.88.x.x before the firewire is active unless your cable company does something different to activate it. Are you using the Multi-Room functions? If you are, how does that work. I didn't think it would work with another 8300.

cnickersonjr

06-16-06, 04:04 PM

tcat

06-16-06, 04:46 PM

I didn't think I was getting DD5.1 either, but it seems certain stations have a much better signal than others. I am using HDMI from 8300 to AVR to TV. Video and Audio 5.1 comes through. I was watching "Novocaine" the other night, and DD was great.

I've read that there may be problems with the optical port with older boxes, but I tried using optical to my AVR and switched to that input, and still got the same 5.1 audio. I think I had to switch the "Auto HDMI" to "Digital" on the 8300 audio menu. But some stations that "should" be 5.1, don't seem to be.

RussB

06-16-06, 04:56 PM

:mad: I just Hard booted my 8300. and my software is still ver. 1.87.16.a104. Is their different software versions for different regions? If not, why didn't my firmware change to the 1.88.X.X everyone is talking about? The problem I was trying to resolve was I can't get DD5.1 from my Optical out on the 8300. If I plug in a Digital coax cable if works fine. I'm using HDMI for my video. Has any one else had this problem? Do you know of a solution? I really need to use the Optical out instead of the digital coax. Thanks.Cable company divisions update their software version on their own schedule so there are different versions across the country and Canada. Houston Time Warner Cable is still at version 1.87.16.a104. It is beta testing more current versions but there were problems with those. Click here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7667909&&#post7667909) to see a post about problems with some of the previous beta versions. There is a new beta version but I haven't seen any information about it. You can try searching for a solution to your other problem. I think I have seen it reported but I don't remember if there was a solution.

cnickersonjr

06-16-06, 04:59 PM

slimoli

06-16-06, 05:04 PM

Russb

No, I am not using the MR function. Actually I have no idea on how to use it and the cableguy who came here told me that I would need an "adapter" to make it work, at an extra cost. I got 2 receivers and both look pretty used. There is absolutely nothing different I could notice between them, just one has the MultiRoom logo and the other doesn't.

Thank you again for your reply. If I have the MR working someday I will post the result here. Calling the cable company and talking about something like the MultiRoom capability is no easy task.

Sergio

nagyg

06-16-06, 05:13 PM

I just got a SA8300 with Cablevision (used to have Dishnetwork). How do I get Closed Captioning to work? I tried a couple of settings without success...

DNW

06-16-06, 08:57 PM

This question is so simple I am surprised I cannot find the answer...possibly it is here, and I just missed it.

I plugged the firewire output from the 8300HD into my computer. I got four new hardwares, one of which was 'av/c control panel', the second was a similar item (don't recall exactly what it was) and two were unknown hardware. In all four cases I was asked for a driver, I searched and found nothing.

Do I need driver(s)? If so, where do I get them? Is there something else I need to do?

My objective is to copy a short piece of local news coverage to my hard drive, so I can post it on a web site, burn a dvd, etc. Is firewire (assuming I can get it to work) the best way to transfer this content to my computer? I kind of thought it was, because I have done a lot of transfers from a digital camcorder and it has usually worked quite well, and never seems to need any additional drivers.

If it matters, I have Cablevision in White Plains, NY. I got my 8300HD within the past few months. I doubt that the material I want to copy is encrypted in any way, as it is just a local news channel (12, for those of you who live in Westchester County, NY).

jruhnke

06-16-06, 11:37 PM

Mark521

06-17-06, 12:46 PM

I just got a SA8300 with Cablevision (used to have Dishnetwork). How do I get Closed Captioning to work? I tried a couple of settings without success...

I can tell how I do it on a Comcast system in Southern NJ:

First you'd think they would have supplied a CC button on the remote, but no. I use the "menu" button on the Comcast supplied remote, then scroll down until you see the "Caption off/on" option. Change the Off to On. Make sure you press the "OK/Select" button before you exit or your select won't stick (learned that the hard way).

Good Luck...Mark

DNW

06-17-06, 01:56 PM

Unfortunately, there is apparently nothing simple about this question. You will realize that soon enough when you start browsing through the thread: Sticky: How to record via IEEE 1394 (Firewire) to Windows XP (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=403695).

Good luck,
Jim

Actually, is was quite easy once you pointed me in the right direction. Maybe that's because my needs are minimal. I wanted to capture about thirty seconds of local news, in which my dog and I appeared :)

Based on the link you provided, I downloaded two files:

firestb.zip
CapDVHS0306e.zip

The first file is the driver for the SA 8300HD, and the second is the video capture applet. I installed the driver, which enabled my system to recognize the 8300Hd, then I located the beginning of the clip, pressed play, and started up the video capture. The file plays well in WMP.

The downloaded files had elaborate instruction on getting recording to work in Media Center 2005. Although my HP notebook computer runs MCE2005, I could not get anything to work in media center.

Also, I tried to capture the video with muVee Producer, which came with the computer, but it gave me a message that it could not find a camera and thus could not capture the video.

Bottom line, I got what I set out to get, thanks for the assist.

knutsen

06-17-06, 02:40 PM

Need advice, please! I'm with Cablevision, using an Infocus SP4805 for display. When I replaced my 4200HD with an 8300HD last night, the PQ was so bad I had to put the old box back.

I use component cables, and tried to pass through the signal to let the projector tune it. No tweaks on the projector side except for some anti-keystone. What I was seeing was an overly bright 1080i signal, and an overly dark and kinda posterized 720p signal; neither in any way acceptable. Both signals appear to be washed out on either the bright or dim side.

This is like an extreme version of what the 4200HD would do. The 720p signal from that one was a bit dim, so I had the box upconvert everything to 1080i, which may have been a bit bright, but not overly so.

Can the output of the 8300HD be tweaked in some way, or should I ask for another unit? I'd rather not adjust the projector, as it receives all signals from a component switch box and looks just fine with my DVD player's signal.

slimoli

06-17-06, 05:28 PM

DN7335

06-17-06, 05:54 PM

I've had my 8300HD for a good while now, over a year, and we were stuck on 1.87.whatever for so long. Just today, we finally got 1.88.19.1, and I'm stoked. I'm on Adelphia cable in Cumming, which is a suburb city north of Atlanta. I imagine soon Adelphia will become Comcast. Just a few weeks ago they finally launched the On Demand service, and now I get a software upgrade on my 8300HD, life is good!

Does anyone have a thread link that will explain the new features of 1.88.19.1? I've tried searching but there were a ton of results and I didn't have time to go through them all. If someone has a link bookmarked that they could share, that would be great. Thanks--

Dave

RussB

06-17-06, 09:17 PM

Ok, I have a very simple question and I coudn't find any post about it. Is there any way to play back an ongoing recording from the beginning? When I select play from the list the playback starts from the recording point. Sorry if the this question is so basic.

Thanks

SergioHow to watch a 'recording in progress'

1. Select recording as usual (select in list, tune to channel, etc.)
2. Press Stop
3. Select 'Stop and Save'
4. Press the Record button
5. [A] to Accept the recording (make any changes you want)
6. Press Pause (only needed if the recording will still be 'in
progress' when done watching what you just saved)
7. Press List, play the saved recording ('Part 1')
8. Play 'Part 2'. If it's done recording ... select it from the
List and play it as usual. If it's not done recording yet ... this
is where things get a little tricky. Sometimes selecting in the
List will take me to 'Live' ... sometimes it takes me to the 'Pause'
point above. I've had better luck with manually typing in the
channel number (or hitting 'Last'). Play around and see what (if
anything) works with your firmware version to get back to
the 'Pause' point.
9. Finish watching the show.

Note: if 'Part 2' is still 'in progress' when you start watching ... and it ends while you are still watching ... you will NOT be dropped out when it stops recording. Recordings started by manually hitting the 'Record' button do not exhibit this annoying behavior ... they act like they should.

Ok, the above sounds like a pain ... but it's very quick / easy and works well once you get used to it (with the exception of missing one or two seconds of the show as 'Part 2' starts to record, and the possibility of seeing a 'spoiler' in that brief time you are 'live').

This was posted by dt_dc and is similar to "Skip To End 3 - Skip To Beginning Workaround" in post 1 of this thread except the part about using the Pause button was not included in post 1.

This is fixed in release 1.88.X.X, which has the option to watch from the beginning and doesn't kick you out.

DoubleDAZ,

I think you should consider including this information in the first post and making it the first option on "How to watch a 'recording in progress'" instead of using the title "Skip to End X". This question keeps being asked over and over. I don't think everone realizes that "Skip To End 3 - Skip To Beginning Workaround" is really the work around for "How to watch a 'recording in progress'".

Thank you DoubleDAZ for updating the first post

Hopefully, this won't be needed for much longer because everone will get 1.88.X.X.

MikeK614

06-17-06, 11:09 PM

this may me covered elsewhere in this thread but I could not find it. If I watch a show that I am recording, and I pause it for a little while and then resume it again, it will always stop before the end of that particular show, and immediately go live to the next show on the channel as soon as it comes on. (as an example- I have scheduled the simpsons to be recorded. The simpsons runs from 6:30-7:00. I am busy doing something else so I tune to the simpsons at 6:40 and then rewind and watch the show from the beginning. At 7:00, it abruptly stops the Simpsons and brings Everybody Loves Raymond on even though there is still 10 mintues left on the Simpsons) Does anybody know why it does this and is there anything you can do to prevent it?

DoubleDAZ

06-17-06, 11:15 PM

It is referred to as Kick Out To Live and there is nothing you can do about it other than follow the Watch A Recording In Progress tips in the first post. It has been fixed in version 1.88.x.x of the software whenever your cableco gets around to releasing it.

DoubleDAZ

06-17-06, 11:23 PM

If someone has a link bookmarked that they could share, that would be great. Thanks--It's been posted at least a half dozen times, more than once by me, but here's yet another link. Now bookmark it and don't ask again. :)

http://www.cox.com/sandiego/whatsnew/20060613-dvrupgrade.asp?CMP=EMC-Connexion_Newsletter&ATT=Region3

jruhnke

06-18-06, 12:45 AM

Actually, is was quite easy once you pointed me in the right direction. ... Bottom line, I got what I set out to get, thanks for the assist.Wow--glad to hear it! Many months ago, I spent several days doing some research on what it would take to enable 1394 recording off my box to my PC, and it sounded like it'd be very unlikely I'd be able to get it to work reliably. Since my current 8300HD has no 1394 port, and boxes with 1394 ports enabled were hard to come by in my area back then, I never even gave it a shot.

I am pleased to hear about your good results; perhaps it's time for me to revisit this project!

RussB

06-18-06, 12:53 AM

It's been posted at least a half dozen times, more than once by me, but here's yet another link. Now bookmark it and don't ask again. :)

http://www.cox.com/sandiego/whatsnew/20060613-dvrupgrade.asp?CMP=EMC-Connexion_Newsletter&ATT=Region3Here are some additional features and fixes in 1.88.X.X
1) Support for firewire (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7804879&&#post7804879) (1394) (May depend on cable company)
2) Eliminates crash in IPG (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7667909&&#post7667909) (I know this is a problem with Houston Time Warner Cable & Explorer 8300HD DVRs, SARA 1.87.16.a104, but I am not sure if other users have this problem)

DoubleDAZ,

These posts would be good information for the first post and might eliminate some of the duplicate questions. At least people could easily be directed to the first post.

yeagerda

06-18-06, 08:18 AM

with an external SATA drive attached, the recording space used indicator shows 76% and with the drive removed (ie, only the internal drive), the indicator shows 63% used. seems odd at first, but apparently the target drive chosen is based on most available space, so both drives (eventually) end up with the same amount of space left, and yes it does make sense.

checking partition info for the drives on pg 34,35 of the info screens:
internal drive, AVFS: 48GB free out of total 147GB (67% used)
external drive, AVFS: 47GB free out of total 278GB (83% used)

total: 95GB free out of 425GB (78% used)

this post was originally to ask why, but in answering my own question it seemed worth posting.

yeagerda

06-18-06, 08:31 AM

internal drive, WD1600BB (160GB)
HDD INFO indicates capacity - 148GB
AVFS partition size - 147GB

external drive, WD3200KS (320GB)
HDD INFO indicates capacity - 298GB
AVFS partition size - 278GB

Why does the 320GB drive end up with a partition size of only 278GB? 42GB seems like a lot of overhead, especially compared with the internal 160GB drive??

in case it matters, the box is using SARA v1.88.19.1

telemike

06-18-06, 09:20 AM

Current SARA in TWC Greensboro is 1.87.27.1

assJack1

06-18-06, 06:01 PM

Does anyone know if the 8300HD will delete programs off the box due to any broadcast flags, or something similar?

I had Boston Legal recorded for last week, and when I was checking the box this morning to make sure I had the Tuesday recordings all set, I noticed the Boston Legal was no longer in the 'recorded shows' listing. (I had watched about 5 minutes of the show on Sunday but didn't get a chance to finish it, had planned on watching it tonight.)

I don't think I deleted it manually; and I sure don't think i had enough programs recorded to force a 'delete for more space' - only had about 5 shows recorded. Thought you could have 20 hrs of HD recordings stored.

I have been having a rash of randomly deleted recordings myself. I have been running a 500gb external for about nine months now and have had flawless performance. Then, all of a sudden, shows that have been recorded at any point in time (9 months ago, 2 months ago, last week, and yesterday) appear to be deleted randomly. I checked the space capacity and its at 30% and the "days to save" has been set to "Until I Delete".

A second box in the home does not exhibit any problems. I am wondering if the thing just grow a mind of its own.

Anyone have a suggestion?

TerryB

06-18-06, 06:22 PM

I have had two BETA software revisions here in Houston which have deleted a program different that the one I requested the delition of. e.g. I finished watching UNIT on Tuesday night and selected delete. The menu has a square in the upper left displaying the program description and when delet was hit it changed from UNIT to NCIS and asked if I was sure I wanted to delete this program. It got me several times before I caught on to the trick. I hope they did not release this version or another with the bug to your area.

TerryB

TerryB

06-18-06, 06:23 PM

FYI all,
Latest Houston Beta is SARA 1.88.22.1 dated May 23rd and it finally has the front panel aux. inputs enabled by pressing video source. The erasure of a different program than originally selected is fixed, there have been no crashes since loaded, 4xFF and RR are present and selections from the remote are very quick, however it does powerup with the letterboxed HD displayed inside the SD envelope and there are still a few 5.1 drops during live and replay.

TerryB

DN7335

06-18-06, 11:34 PM

It's been posted at least a half dozen times, more than once by me, but here's yet another link. Now bookmark it and don't ask again. :)

http://www.cox.com/sandiego/whatsnew/20060613-dvrupgrade.asp?CMP=EMC-Connexion_Newsletter&ATT=Region3

Yes I know its out there, but I also knew a forum wizard like you would have it handy! :) Thanks dude!!

Dave

petem23

06-19-06, 12:13 AM

Ok I've read through a ton of this thread and couldn't find, so I was hoping someone could just let me know.

Is there a way to tell from the diagnostics menu if the 1394 port is active or not?

SARA 1.88.19.1
Component Info Page
Firebus 1.9.12.1
fbdtcp 1.3.4.1

Copy Protection page

{Protection Type} {Enabled}
1394: disabled disabled

I don't wan't to go out and buy equipment and it not be active. Thanks for any help.

DoubleDAZ

06-19-06, 12:15 AM

These posts would be good information for the first post and might eliminate some of the duplicate questions. At least people could easily be directed to the first post.I don't totally agree, but I've added the list anyway as a test. However, I don't intend to get into the business of tracking every bug/fix for every cableco. I've already added references to the 2 major changes, Start From Beginning and FF4/REW4, and will continue to do so and that should be enough IMHO.

Your IPG problem is a case in point. That seems limited to your cableco and it's nowhere on any official list I've seen for 1.88.19.1 and I don't even have access to a list for the 1.88.22.1 and other release I've seen mentioned. We'll see how the test goes and take it from there. :)

slimoli

06-19-06, 02:22 AM

Current SARA in TWC Greensboro is 1.87.27.1
That's the same version I have with Atlantic Broadband here in south Florida.

How do you guys get a beta software? How is the new software installed by the cable co? Do they just send it via cable?

Thanks for such informative board. It is making my life much easier with the 8300, although I am already missing my HD-TIVO (but not the picture quality from D*).

Sergio

RussB

06-19-06, 02:54 AM

Thanks Dave for updating the first post with "New Features in software version 1.88.x.x".

RussB

06-19-06, 03:12 AM

That's the same version I have with Atlantic Broadband here in south Florida.

How do you guys get a beta software? How is the new software installed by the cable co? Do they just send it via cable?

Thanks for such informative board. It is making my life much easier with the 8300, although I am already missing my HD-TIVO (but not the picture quality from D*).

SergioThe cable company sends the new software version via cable when they think it is ready, usually it is sent in the middle of the night.

DoubleDAZ

06-19-06, 07:56 AM

Thanks Dave for updating the first post with "New Features in software version 1.88.x.x". :) We'll see how it goes and how much trouble it causes, but maybe if I limit it just to New Features and not the Bug Fixed list, it'll work out okay. For now it will be useful if folks will direct others to the first post. Since there is no specific Moderator for this thread (at least not that I can see), we are on our own to do that.

rransi

06-19-06, 07:01 PM

Harley_Dude

06-19-06, 07:35 PM

Comcast, Cherry Hill NJ
SARA: 1.87.23.1

I have a weird problem with SA 8300 HD.

While recording world cup soccer games in HD, some of the scheduled recordings end 15-20 minutes before they are actually supposed to end. There is plenty of free space available on DVR when this happens. So far this has happened 3 times. This really sucks. I missed some good games.

Anyone else experience this?

I've had it happen to me a few times. The same firmware revision is being used here in San Antonio and it's very annoying. I'm hopeful that we get a 1.88.xx.x version of the firmware before Fall TV gets started up.

the-jr

06-19-06, 08:47 PM

RussB

06-20-06, 04:23 AM

DoubleDAZ

06-20-06, 07:46 AM

Ok, the first post has been updated with the list of New Features in 1.88.x.x and some other changes. If you haven't read it in a while, it might be worth your time to do so.

Folks new to this thread should be referred there as a starting point to get answers to their questions. It seems there are quite a few new users here the past few days who have not yet read it and many of their questions are already answered there.

A special thanks to RussB for helping me update the first post.

the-jr

06-20-06, 08:06 AM

Thanks RussB! After posting my question I had seen the same advice you gave me. Maybe from you earlier too. I did this last night and have not had the problem reoccur yet. Also, I had already reviewed all the great tips and tricks earlier which were very helpful and informative. Thanks to you and DoubleDaz for all the info and help.

Thanks, Randy

knutsen

06-20-06, 12:43 PM

Need advice, please! I'm with Cablevision, using an Infocus SP4805 for display. When I replaced my 4200HD with an 8300HD last night, the PQ was so bad I had to put the old box back.

The tech was just here with another 8300HD; same bad PQ.

I'm willing to believe it's the projector's fault for not being able to deal well with the signal, but clearly the 8300HD is putting out something different from the 4200HD, to the point of being unwatchable with my setup. I gave back the DVR box; PQ is more important to me.

dt_dc

06-20-06, 12:53 PM

Ok, the first post has been updated with the list of New Features in 1.88.x.x and some other changes.Perhaps something else to put in the first post as I see people ask / complain about it quite a bit ...

Clear 'upcoming recording' reminder screens (and any other pop-ups). Press the exit button to remove the window. In general, if something's on the screen that annoys you and you want it gone, try the exit button. For example, see Disappearing Diagnostic Window.

I know most users find this pretty quickly but ... I'm surprised at the number of people that don't.

DoubleDAZ

06-20-06, 02:20 PM

Rather than adding to the list, I simply changed another one to be more general about any popup.

rransi

06-20-06, 10:40 PM

My misery with SA 8300HD continues. In addition to having truncated recordings, I am now experiencing a situation where recordings are being lost. The available recording screen on DVR shows that the recording is there, but when I press SELECT to play it, nothing is played. This has happened twice in a row now. I checked the events that could lead to lost recordings at the begining of this thread but I am pretty sure that I did not go through those sequence of events.

Is there a way to recover such recording? My understanding from AVS forums is that available recordings list is built in memory on the fly after reading data from hard disk. Why would then a recording be listed in available recordings screen when it cannot be replayed (becuse it was lost or something like that)?

SARA version is 1.87.23.1. I have cold rebooted the DVR several times - issue still persists. Calling Comcast customer service was useless as the CSR had no clue about firmware versions and how to fix this issue.

2weeks

06-21-06, 04:44 AM

Yes, but I believe vegggas has said you should be getting 1.88.19.1 sometime this month, we get it in July.

Dave,
Do you have 1.88 or not? Your posts sure sounded like your were enjoying the new features. I told Cox that Peoria had it, and I'm still on 1.87.16.1. :o

2weeks

06-21-06, 04:49 AM

rransi,
I'm stunned, your csr was clueless. Every time I call they pull up my info & they know exactly what software/firmware I have. In addition they update me on things I'm interested in by querying my previous questions. Of course I always call on April 1st :D

DoubleDAZ

06-21-06, 08:16 AM

Dave,
Do you have 1.88 or not? Your posts sure sounded like your were enjoying the new features. I told Cox that Peoria had it, and I'm still on 1.87.16.1. :oI sent you a PM.

Dan_R_M

06-21-06, 10:52 AM

New 8300HD user with Comcast in Monmouth County, Nj. Firmware ver. 1.87.23.1.

Relatively frequently (daily) when I power on the set top box, it has switched back to SD mode. I have to power off the box, enter the setup menu using the guide/info button pair and reselect HD. The settings for they type of signals passed is still set correctly. Has anyone else had the same problem and is there a fix?

Thanks, Randy

I have the same problem. I get 480i for all channels. It was working fine for the last few months up until last week, i think they did upgrades or something... I have the box connected hdmi with auto detect setting and 480i, 480p, 1080i, 720p selected in the setup.

I called adelphia and they said to unplug and plug the stb back in. I did that and it worked. However, not so fast.....If I turn off the box and turned it back on immediatly, it still worked....but if I turn off the box and leave it off for an extended period of time and then turn it on, the problem comes back....I get 480i on every channel.

Called back adelphia and service guy came out today. My girlfriend was home, not me, bad choice on my part...cuz all he did was set it to upconvert 1 and say problem solved. Which is BS, cuz now it works but I cannot do autodetect to get 720p or 480i. Seems like it is a memory problem or something. Any suggestions? I guess I can go swap the box...would a hard reboot be a good idea?

DoubleDAZ

06-21-06, 11:50 AM

A hard reboot has never hurt anything that I know of and it has fixed things a soft reboot didn't. IMHO, it's always worth a try "before" calling for service. :)

One thing I'd also try (if the hard reboot doesn't help) is going back into setup and re-enabling the formats you use. You might have to enable only 1080i, reboot, then enable the others and reboot. I know that sounds extreme, but it's just something to try. What have you got to lose?

Kruskal

06-21-06, 04:26 PM

Are there SARA 8300HDs with the multi-room feature? How can I tell if mine has this feature?

Thanks -- Vincent

tomcran

06-21-06, 06:05 PM

Just got a Samsung HL-S5087W TV, which has 2 HDMI inputs. When I hook up an HDMI cable from the cable box to the TV I can only get HD channels through that HDMI input. I can't get the SD or 480P channels. I know the HDMI inputs on the TV work well, since I've tried a DVD player in both of them and they both worked fine. And I know the cable itself works fine since I've also tested it on other things. So it looks like the SA box is the culprit here.

I just returned to Brighthouse an SA 8300 HD box because of this problem, and now I find I have the same problem with this new one. A sales rep at Circuit City, where I bought the TV, said others who bought the TV have no problems with HDMI from cable.

Is there some trick I'm missing here or some setting I'm overlooking? Anyone hear of this before or have any ideas? Right now I'm using component video cables to watch cable, and that's working well. But I'd like to have the HDMI option. Thanks in advance.

davehancock

06-21-06, 07:34 PM

Are there SARA 8300HDs with the multi-room feature? How can I tell if mine has this feature?

Thanks -- Vincent
Its a specific model number. The photos on the SA site show "Multi-Room" lettering on the front panel. It is highly unlikely that anyone has this that does not know (and PAY) for it. It requires a special installation (they have to install filters to keep the MR signal from getting out of your house).

DEIFan

06-21-06, 07:40 PM

tomcran - while you have the component cables hooked up, go through the Setup Wizard and disable 480i. I don't believe that the Sammies can accept 480i over HDMI. Play with the other resolutions. If you leave only HD resolutions set (720p and 1080i) than the analog channels will be upconverted by the box. You can alos try enabling 480p. That way the analog channels will be deinterlaced to 480p, sent to the TV over HDMI, and then converted to whatever the native resolution is of your display. Instructions for getting into the Wizard are in the very first post of the thread.

tomcran

06-21-06, 08:32 PM

DEIFan: That works! I have to disable all 4 of the 480i and 480p options. The only problem is when I do that, all the non-HD channels come in letter-boxed for both the HDMI input and the compnent video inputs. (But at least I can watch everything through HDMI.) The HD channels of course come in full screened.

If I have evrything but the two 480i options enabled, and the picture format set to "pass-through", for non-HD channels, the screen gets filled up automatically when watching using the component videop input on the TV. (But then I can't watch them through HDMI.)

I really like that feature - automatically filling up the screen for the non-HD channels, rather than having them letterboxed. So, I guess I'll stick to the component video input and just use HDMI to hook up the DVD player. That is, unless there's some other angle I'm missing that could solve the letterboxing problem. I tried other "picture formats" (upconvert 1 and 2) and that didn't solve it.

Thanks for the excellent advice. I've brought these issues up with folks at the cable, co., circuit city, and other forums, and you are the only one to find the answer.

tomcran - while you have the component cables hooked up, go through the Setup Wizard and disable 480i. I don't believe that the Sammies can accept 480i over HDMI. Play with the other resolutions. If you leave only HD resolutions set (720p and 1080i) than the analog channels will be upconverted by the box. You can alos try enabling 480p. That way the analog channels will be deinterlaced to 480p, sent to the TV over HDMI, and then converted to whatever the native resolution is of your display. Instructions for getting into the Wizard are in the very first post of the thread.

RussB

06-21-06, 08:50 PM

Are there SARA 8300HDs with the multi-room feature? How can I tell if mine has this eature?

Thanks -- VincentCall your cable company to find out if they offer a SA multi-room DVR. If they do, ask what are the advantages and disadvantages. I think a multi-room DVR only works with non DVR client boxes. Also, I think SA is having problems sending out high definition to client boxes using a multi-room DVR. It has been a while since I read anything about the multi-room DVR, so you should verify this information with your cable company. Let us know what you find out.

DoubleDAZ

06-21-06, 09:02 PM

tomcran, try just the 480p standard and leave the rest 480i/p's disabled.

DoubleDAZ

06-21-06, 09:04 PM

I don't believe the MR works with OCAP either and many cableco's are supposed to implement that relatively soon, late this year/early next, I think.

RemyM

06-21-06, 09:38 PM

Also, I think SA is having problems sending out high definition to client boxes using a multi-room DVR.

MR-DVR does not support HD on any box but the server DVR. It says so in the SA documentation.

tomcran

06-21-06, 09:49 PM

DoubleDAZ

06-22-06, 08:09 AM

MR-DVR does not support HD on any box but the server DVR. It says so in the SA documentation.That's correct. It's not that they are having problems, they simply haven't finished/released an HD version. They also are working on an MCP-100 MR DVR w/DVD Recorder and you can find info about it on their website in the section for cableco's. What ultimately gets released by cableco's is anyone's guess though and I'm quite sure OCAP will be a major factor in future DVR/MR availability. I'm also quite sure SA will not be the only player and may not even be a major player, Cisco ownership not withstanding.

DoubleDAZ

06-22-06, 08:15 AM

Thanks for the suggestion. I went ahead and tried that - had 480p standard as the only enabled of the 480p or 480i's and still can't get HDMI on the non HD channels unless 480p standard is disabled too.Oh well, it was worth a shot. Sammies seem to have problems with HDMI that others don't and vegggas has posted quite a bit about the 8300 having to decided what to do with upconverting signals that don't match those that are enabled. So I thought maybe just enabling a single 480 format might help. :(

philherz

06-22-06, 10:51 AM

I bet I know the answer to this, but I have a lot of half hour programs that I need to copy....is there a way to select 2 or more at once and have the 8300 send them to the VCR, one right after another?

RemyM

06-22-06, 10:55 AM

Nope, you have to do them one at a time.

2weeks

06-23-06, 03:46 AM

When I use HDMI there is a thin Red line that flashes on screen every 5 minutes or so. It's not on the recording. Then about an hour in, I lose the picture. I thought it was my projector, but tonight I verified the projector is ok against another HDMI source. Anybody heard of this problem? Hopefully 1.88.xx will fix???

rransi

06-25-06, 01:45 PM

SARA: 1.83.27.1

Another annoying issue. If I am watching a program that is being currently rcorded, and lets say it is supposed to end in 5 minutes - If I hit Stop button 5 minutes before the recording is supposed to end and then select "Stop Recording <Program Name> and Save it", it only saves 27 minutes. It has happened with three recordings - The saved time is always 27 minutes. Any one else experience this? Is this another bug with SARA?

slimoli

06-25-06, 02:50 PM

Are you sure your firmware version is not 1.87.27.1 instead? If it's 1.83 it's probably way too old.

ymandj

06-25-06, 02:53 PM

DoubleDAZ

06-25-06, 03:53 PM

Are you sure your firmware version is not 1.87.27.1 instead? If it's 1.83 it's probably way too old.My guess would be 1.87.23.1, since other folks also seem to have that version. I haven't heard of that specific problem, but I would try a "hard" reboot and see if that resets it. Of course, if it's a half hour program with "about" 5 minutes left, 27 minutes could be the size of the buffer at that point, but not on 3 different programs. I don't think cableco's can change the buffer size, so I suspect something is just hosed and a reboot might clear it.

rransi

06-25-06, 03:59 PM

Are you sure your firmware version is not 1.87.27.1 instead? If it's 1.83 it's probably way too old.

Sorry, typo on my part. SARA version is 1.87.23.1

slimoli

06-25-06, 07:23 PM

rransi

I just recorded the first 50 minutes of a 90 minutes program. Hit stop ans save and got exactly 50 minutes recorded. My software version is the same (1.87.20.3). Doesn't look like a software glitch.

Sergio

DoubleDAZ

06-26-06, 06:28 AM

I have a starnge problem with my new SA 8300 (no HD). When I press the DVR button i am getting message "Disk trouble. There are problems with the program recording storage. Recording and playback are not available now." What to do? What does it mean "not available now". What's going to change later?Try a hard reboot and see if that helps. There are also instructions in the first post for reformatting (Last Resort) the HDD. I assume those procedures are the same for the SD 8300. If neither works, then you will probbly need to get a different unit.

bjmjpl

06-27-06, 08:02 PM

vegggas

06-27-06, 08:34 PM

soooo -

i have tried to catch up on everything posted - all i want to do is copy my gorgeous Bon Jovi Borgata Concert from INHD (which is a free channel in Cablevision NJ country so doubt any 5c issues) that i have been saving for over 2 yrs now i think...onto my hard disk -

i have 2 questions....

1. - I believe the file on the hard disk in the 8300 is a transport stream (.ts) - if thats correct is everyone trying to figure out a way to COPY that file and then play in VLC and if that is correct, there would be no loss of quality that way right?

I know ip you output through the components or even HDMI to a HTPC then wont that by definition involve a loss of quality because it is rerecoding another instance right?

2. - if above is pretty much right, then is that status that we are waiting from a response from SA on the driver issue, so there is still hope right?

I have 2 boxes and the other one went into a reboot spiral of death and they are replacing it tomorrow - fortunately not the one with my concert

Thank you all for the insight and efforts as always - ill try to question the tech tomorrow, but doubt itll get anywhere but u never know - sometimes you get the one geek hacker guy
1. You Can't Copy that file. It exists only on the DVR. You MAY be able to STREAM it to a 5c compliant device over firewire, such as a D-VHS deck for archiving, if the flags allow copies of that particular content.
2. Ummm, There is no such thing as a "driver" from SA. People have attempted to write their own drivers for their firewire PC's using the 1394 bus, but SA would not have any particular say in that matter. They must comply with 5c compatibility - with 5c capable devices, which, their hardware meets. PC's are NOT 5c compatible.
It's up to the local cable co to implement 5c on the data coming from the headend or MTC to enforce the 5c status of each channel and program. Those with recordings working wth PC's are in gray areas where 5c is not fully implemented on all the channels.

vegggas

AVSPHR34K

06-28-06, 12:19 AM

Well I FINALLY got Video to work on HDMI on the Samsung HL-S5087W BUT no Audio!! I got video to work with a series of reboots, and setting the option to '1080i'. Any suggestions on audio?

RemyM

06-28-06, 08:11 AM

Check your audio settings on the box by pressing the settings button twice. If your TV can't decode Dolby digital and that is the audio setting you are using you will not get any sound through HDMI. You will need to select a different setting.

ymandj

06-28-06, 01:00 PM

Dave,
I tried the hard reboot - didn't work. When reformatting, after I pressed LIST 3 times I see hddF on the LED display. I press Power button to turn it off, then ON - time is displayed and nothing else happens. :confused: Am I doing something wrong? I guess I just need to replace the unit but I hate to waste 2+ hrs on the trip to the Cablevision office.

nagyg

06-30-06, 02:17 PM

Is there a way to disable the LIVE button? It happens a lot that I hit it by mistake and then I cannot rewind to where I was ....

RemyM

06-30-06, 02:48 PM

If you accidentally hit the live button while watching a recording in progress, just switch to your DVR playback channel (1000 on my cable co) and the recording will be at the point it was when you hit the live button. I don't think this trick will work for stuff in the buffer that is not being recorded.

philherz

06-30-06, 05:46 PM

Is there a way to disable the LIVE button? It happens a lot that I hit it by mistake and then I cannot rewind to where I was ....

I see the LIVE Button shown on the 8300 "LIST" screen options....do we need to see if Adelphia (Buffalo) is offering updated remotes?

(Is there a similar function available on the older remotes?)

snodman

07-02-06, 12:03 AM

Everything Veggas said. You can not just copy the file. You can copy (degraded, of course) to a standard VCR or VCR-replacement standalone DVD burner through the VCR out in the SA box. The only prayer of getting that HD quality data out of the SA box is out the firewire ports. What the SA box needs to "see" out a firewire/1394 connection is a D-VHS deck. It can then stream shows stored on the hard drive to the firewire connected D-VHS deck, and then ONLY if that show originally had the proper flag allowing it to be so streamed.

drcos

07-08-06, 09:15 AM

Comcast SWFL Sara 1.88.22.1 -
Seems that the 'memory' feature on a DVR recording is flaky now. If I watch half a recorded program and then go back to that same program later (without having selected another recording), it starts at the beginning of the recording again. I know watching another recording would cause this, but now it's happening randomly. Didn't see this with previous firmware, but I'll take it since we have lost dump to live :)
Would be nice if it was more like Tivo and remembered where you were in ALL your recordings.

And a note on the programs in the recorded list not playing - this happens to me if my external SATA drive connector disconnects itself :( the program will be in the list but will not play. You would need to pull the power plug, reconnect the HD and reboot.

DoubleDAZ

07-08-06, 09:28 AM

I'm running 1.88.19.1 and have not run into this. If I simply tune to the playback channel (800 here) and press Play, it restarts from where it left off. If I reselect it from the list, I get an option to restart from where I left off. FWIW, I don't recall having this option in the past, but I rarely restarted recordings until recently (to test out features like this).

SGinAZ

07-08-06, 02:22 PM

jruhnke

07-08-06, 03:17 PM

Questions regarding the HDD spin down in the new 1.88.x.x firmware. Am I to understand that if the DVR is on yet no activity is taking place, that between 1:00AM and 1:15AM the internal and external HDD's will spin down but leave the DVR on? What is the normal behavior of the HDD's when the DVR is off? Do they spin down then?

I ask because I'm still on 1.87.16.1 and my newly installed external drive continues to spin even with the DVR off. If it's possible to get it to spin down then it would help lower heat levels considerably.I know your question addressed 1.88.x.x, but I thought you might be interested to hear from another 1.87.16.1 user with an external drive. With 1.87.16.1, the internal drive does occasionally spin down after some period of activity, but I don't know what criterial must be met for that to happen. I just know that I occasionally hear the drive spin up when I turn on the box after it's been off for a while--it certainly doesn't happen every time the box is "powered off" via the remote or front button.

My external drive enclosure has a relatively noisy fan, and it masks the sound of the drive motor. I do not know if the external drive ever spins down or not.

You might want to pay closer attention to your current setup. You may notice that even today, sometimes one or both of your drives are idle, and after 1.88.x.x comes along you'll have a better idea of how much your drives' behavior has changed.

DoubleDAZ

07-08-06, 08:57 PM

I could be wrong, but I think the HDD spins down every night around 1:15 as long as it is not recording and the 8300 is "off". If the 8300 is "on", then I believe you see a message displayed telling you to press a key or the 8300 will turn off. I believe 1.88.x.x simply adds SATA drives to this process. I also believe that may be the only time drives spin down and it might be that cableco's can disable this function.

Of course, you all know that the 8300 is never "off" unless the power is unplugged. Otherwise it wouldn't be able to start scheduled recordings when "off".

vegggas

07-08-06, 09:37 PM

The STB power off and spin down are a global setting by the cable company. The feature is either on or off, based on the DEFAULT STB profile on the system. If 1.88 is used for testing, but the default is still a a 1.87 version, than the test verion will be the opposite. This happened in Las Vegas, where the feature had been disabled since it's inception in 2004. During testing of the 1.88 version, which powers down by default, it was set to not power down, however normal 1.87 users started getting the power down message again, so the cable co had to put it back during the testing phase (still testing).
Drive power down, is not connected to the SATA device as far as I know. I have never seen that happen durng all phases of testing, but I've never looked for specifically. There is a known bug when the STB powers down AND the drive spins down. What happens is that the STB becomes unresponsive to remote or front panel controls until the STB is rebooted. I used to set my STB to power off at night, but the combo of using the timer to turn off the STB and the hard drive spin down, caused a lockup 100% of the time.

Re: Programs in list not playing with external drive- That is almost always due to poor connections to the external drive or memory buffer problems. The data link is lost and needs to be re-establlished and/ or the buffer needs to be reset - both of which can be remedied with a reboot.

vegggas

jruhnke

07-08-06, 11:59 PM

I could be wrong, but I think the HDD spins down every night around 1:15 as long as it is not recording and the 8300 is "off". <snip> I also believe that may be the only time drives spin down and it might be that cableco's can disable this function.I confirmed today that the drives can spin down at times other than overnight. I watched a recording around 10am, then left the box off until around 5pm. When I turned the box back on at that time, I heard the drive spin up again.

Of course, you all know that the 8300 is never "off" unless the power is unplugged. Otherwise it wouldn't be able to start scheduled recordings when "off".I know it's not really "off"; that's why we're discussing drives spinning down and back up. As for why...well, a circa-2001 WindowsXP PC in Hibernate mode is about as close to "off" as you can get without actually being off, from a power consumption perspective. My circa-2002 Creative DVCR TV capture card can (and does!) wake up my hibernating PC to make scheduled recordings.

There's no technical reason why a circa-2003 STB PVR couldn't have been designed to do the same thing. They just didn't.

SGinAZ

07-09-06, 12:41 AM

Thanks for the feedback guys. It is very helpful.

DoubleDAZ

07-09-06, 12:32 PM

The STB power off and spin down are a global setting by the cable company. The feature is either on or off, based on the DEFAULT STB profile on the system. The reason this came up is because the release notes I received for 1.88.19.1 included the followng:
New Features:
• Enhanced HDD Spin down - After 15 minutes of inactivity between 1:00am and 1:15am, the HDD will spin-down without powering off the STB, and a screen saver with an MSO configurable logo/graphic will be displayed while the HDD is spun-down. If an external SATA HDD is attached to the DVR, it will also spin down when the internal HDD spins down .

horsegoer

07-10-06, 03:12 PM

I got the 8300hd just because it had the HDMI input. Should I use this for my recording or my TIVO?

Thanks

bohbot16

07-10-06, 03:37 PM

I got the 8300hd just because it had the HDMI input. Should I use this for my recording or my TIVO?

Thanks

I'm going to guess that you meant HDMI output. You should use it for your HD recordings, which is its main advantage over the tivo.

horsegoer

07-10-06, 06:15 PM

ok but what if I don't want to record hi-def. Can I still have my tivo hooked up and use that?

Thanks

snookz101

07-11-06, 03:46 AM

I have Comcast n central NJ and am having terrible problems with the video signal dropping, while still recieving sound. The problem is with both model boxes the 8000HD and 8300HD.It never occured with a pure HD non dvr box. I am running component cables into my Zenith 34" HD CRT model C34W23 which is about 3 years old.. This set only accepts 1080i HD and the only HD inputs are component.
For many months I have had the screen flash with a lost signal and it goes black and flashes for a few seconds.
with 1080i flashing on the bottom of the screen it happens intermittently. If I am not recording I can save this anomaly in the buffer and then hit record. When played back the Hard Drive then outputs the same flashing and loss of video. However when I play the anomaly back through the STB analog cable out into my tv's analog cable in, the anomaly and flashing of the screen will not occur it seems to occur only through the component output.
This tells me it has to be the box as the TV does not send data back to the box, and the hard drive always is able to record the anomaly. I still had the TV sent out and bench tested for a week. I was glad I bought the extended warranty as the repair people replaced the flyback, I think its the transformer and re sodered the component inputs.
I got the set back and with both boxes 8000 and 8300 the intermittent flashing still occurs and the anomaly is saved on the Hard Drive.
I have had Comcast Techs here a dozen times in 4 months. Half the techs have no idea what they are doing, thus the first guy who came didnt have cable tv at home and used rabbit ears and doesnt watch TV let alone HD tv. His first response was it wasnt the box. He had no idea what he was doing. About 3 visits into this nightmare Comcast finally sent a lead tech. He did replace the cable running to the box...signal loss he said. But it never cured the problem with intermittent loss of video. The audio always stays on. This lead tech came up with the idea of hooking up the component cables to the TV and also the analog SD out. As I said early this proved that the anomaly is saved on the Hard Drive, the problem will only appear twhen played back hrough the component cables, not the analog out. I changed all my cables. Comcast has gone through 6 DVR boxes in 6 months. I have absolutely NO CONFIDENCE in Comcast and SA. These boxes often did not work right out of the box. One tech brought 3 boxes and they were all bad.He had to go back to his office for a 4th. I have spent endless hours talking with techs who don't have a clue. I can't lose anymore time at work waiting for cable repairman. The Comcast lead tech turned out to be a nightmare. He scheduled appoints without consulting me. They had me home parts of 2 days in the week and another two days at home from 8am to 7pm with no 2 hour window. One of those days the tech never showed or called.
I have asked time and time again if there is a SA 8300 knowledge base to refer too..they don't have a clue. I feel like taking this box and dumping it in the garbage and calling the state board of utilities. Of course Comcaxt is harassing me to pay the cable bill and I will not until this is resolved. The lack of coordination between the techs and their support is dismal. I know I have written alot but this has to be my worst experience yet with HD DVR's.
Any suggestions are welcomed greatly
John

TerryB

07-11-06, 07:31 AM

snookz101,
Your symptoms provide a conclusion. Let me try to go through them based on my experience.
1. The flash appears on the component but not the RF out. Conclusion, not the incoming signal or the flash would happen in both outputs and the sound would go too.

2. Happens in many boxes. conclusion, not within A box or the box.

2. Recordable but not seen on the analog RF out means the box has a signal to record which exhibits the problem. Conclusion, conclusion, problem is within the signal.

Overall conclusion:
I think it is in the TV. I have a SONY KP53HS10 4:3 screen with HD capability and it has a known factory defect in the HD video synch. circuit. When there is a very high shift in the light level of the picture e.g. explosion, sun flash off glass, the opening credits of CSI LV used to have something which would trigger it, etc. The screen will blank and in a second come back up with 1080i label. See the TV completely "flipped out" because of the content. This only happened on the HD input and this TV also had only the component input for HD. If I played the same material out the S-Video or RF, it would not crash the TV set. Luckily I ended up with another TV and my wife uses the SONY for SD only with no problems whatsoever. Look for a particular content in the program which causes the TV to loose synch. This problem should be coveered under your extended warranty.

TerryB

horsegoer

07-11-06, 10:11 AM

davehancock

07-11-06, 12:39 PM

Can I use my Tivo series 2 with my 8300hd STB? Will this affect anything? My reason for this is that I don't want to use the DVR from the 8300 I want to record using my TIVO even if I can't record HD.

We are having a bit of a problem figuring what you are trying to do. I've never had a TiVo, so I would expect others to provide a more complete answer. But, basically you should connect the TiVo in parallel to the 8300 (use a splitter on the RF in to feed both, and connect the TiVo to a different input on your display. Your TiVo would then be able to record the analog TV channels on cable, but not the digital ones (SD or HD).

There may be some way to use some sort of "IR blaster" from the TiVo, to control the 8300, and connect the 8300 audio and video outs (preferably S-Video) to the TiVo and use that system to control tuning of the 8300.

What is also puzzling is why you have a 8300HD DVR and are not using it as a DVR. I have seen a few instances (Adelphia in Buffalo, NY) provide 8300HDs as HD STBs to HD customers, but not enable the DVR function. Seems like spending a lot of money, for little return - but then Adelphia is preparing to be taken over (there, in Buffalo) by TW and perhaps they are playing some financial games to inflate their worth.

horsegoer

07-11-06, 12:45 PM

davehancock

07-11-06, 01:05 PM

The only reason for the 8300HS DVR was becauase it had HDMI outputs. If I had a regular 8300HD I would just hook up my Tivo the way it's suppose to be hooked up. Does this setup differ becuase now I have a DVR cable box or the HDMIO outputs in the cable box

Thanks very much Dave for your reply.

8300HS: Is that a typo or what? There is no such animal (I just looked at SA on-line). A suitable Non-DVR HD STB is the SA 4250HD - it also has HDMI out. The regular 8300HD has always had HDMI out.

Your set-up should not differ because your cable box is a DVR. It's still a STB tuner (it just has stuff added). SA uses the same IR code on all boxes, so if you used a TiVo IR blaster scheme with your old SA box, it should still work with the 8300. Now, if your old STB was a Pace, Motorola or some other vendor, that would be a slightly different story.

Incidently, if you connect the 8300HD S-Video out to your TiVo, it will have a downconverted version of any HD shows tuned.

horsegoer

07-11-06, 01:26 PM

bohbot16

07-11-06, 01:57 PM

yes I meant HD. The lady at the service s=center told me the only HD cable box with HDMI was the one with DVR....two people told me that. I don't see why I can't set up my TIvo to this DVR cable just as if it was not a DVR.............That's essentially my question.

Thanks........again Dave
OK, I'm going to make a wild guess here that you want to connect your TiVo directly to the 8300HD to record HBO or something that the TiVo can't natively decode. The only issue I can think of is that your provider might have enabled auto shutoff (see first post).

davehancock

07-11-06, 02:16 PM

The only issue I can think of is that your provider might have enabled auto shutoff (see first post).

Which means that you won't be able to record anything after 1 AM - right? But, what if you set "Auto Power On" for 1:30 AM: will that essentially override the power down (except between 1 & 1:30)?

horsegoer

07-11-06, 03:01 PM

davehancock

07-11-06, 03:30 PM

Maybe I am confusing everyone and if so I apologize. I want to hook up my Tivo with my 8300hd dvr just as you would with any other hd cable box. Does the s"normal" setup change becuase I have a DVR cable box or HDMI going form my box to my tv?

It shouldn't - but what is the "normal setup" (what is connected to what)? Have you tried yet? If so, what problems are you having?

holl_ands

07-11-06, 03:57 PM

Maybe I am confusing everyone and if so I apologize. I want to hook up my Tivo with my 8300hd dvr just as you would with any other hd cable box. Does the s"normal" setup change becuase I have a DVR cable box or HDMI going form my box to my tv?
An RF Splitter is used to send the cable coax signal to cable inputs on both SA8300HD and Tivo so you can record on both at the same time.

The S-Video (or Video) and L/R outputs on the Tivo are then connected to a (hopefully) unused input on the TV....if you don't have an available input, you might need to buy a Video Switch.....or you could try the AUX inputs on the front panel of the SA8300HD and see if they are activated....

Let us know if you need any more specific info...

PS: The SA8300HD is designed to record only from cable--not from your Tivo via an external input.

horsegoer

07-11-06, 04:30 PM

I ndont' want to record from my 8300HD at all.................just the Tivo

bohbot16

07-11-06, 05:01 PM

I ndont' want to record from my 8300HD at all.................just the Tivo

So you want the TiVo to act as it would if the 8300 wasn't there?

vegggas

07-11-06, 05:04 PM

1) The Tivo can only record analog standard def at 720x480i.
2) The 8300HD with HDMI can view and output Hi-Def video content at 1920x1080i or 1280x720p over the HDMI output that you specifically asked for, for some reason (the Tivo CAN'T use this connection cause it's not capable of HD). BTW, Analog channels look like ass over HDMI, wheras Component usually looks better.
3) If you want to watch and record Hi-Def you MUST use the 8300DVR. The Tivo CAN'T pass through, record or view HD content, unless it's down converted to about 1/4 the resolution and converted twice from Digital(source) to Analog(downconverted output) to Digital conversion by Tivo and converted again back to Analog to view on the TV (lots of loss here).
4) If you want to record Standard Def analog only, then just plug in the RF cable directly into the Tivo and record the analog channels using the internal tuner.
5) If you want to "Tivo" Digital cable channels (the 8300 does this too), the 8300 has to decode the digital content and DOWN CONVERT (lossy) it to standard def analog so the Tivo can re-encode it back to digital again (more loss) - HOWEVER, the 8300 can record all digital content in bit-for-bit perfect recordings of the original digital stream with no loss in quality.
6) If you are using the Tivo for playing back all content, why in the hell did you bother to get an HD STB when all you can view is Standard Def through the Tivo?

vegggas

trpltongue

07-11-06, 05:46 PM

Veggas,

Just an FYI, your tone is a bit rude IMO. You're advice of course is spot on, but it's heavily laden with attitude.

It sounds like horsegoer likes the interface of the Tivo better and wants to record shows with it, meanwhile using the HD capabilities of the 8300HD for live tv. The only reason he got the DVR version of the 8300 is because the TWC rep told him it was the only HD box with HDMI outputs.

Horsegoer, as mentioned above, you could save yourself some money buy getting the non-DVR box which also has hdmi output. In the meantime, just set up the system using the S-video and analog audio outputs of the 8300 into the Tivo and use the Tivo IR flasher to control the 8300 for channel changes. This way you will be able to record all analog and digital cable channels on the Tivo, including down-rezed HD channels.

If you have the problem with the box shutting off overnight and you want to record a show, just set your box to wake up sometime after 1:30am.

foghorn2

07-11-06, 06:13 PM

trpltongue

07-11-06, 06:26 PM

davehancock

07-11-06, 06:49 PM

foghorn,

I don't think the question is stupid at all. Suppose the question were asked a bit differently, using the SA3250HD instead. The question is then very valid, but in the wrong post.

At any rate, I think it's been answered well enough for horsegoer to figure it out.

Let's face it: horsegoer really hasn't given us enough information to figure out what he is REALLY trying to do. I specifically asked:

but what is the "normal setup" (what is connected to what)? Have you tried yet? If so, what problems are you having?

But he hasn't answered. I can see the frustration that we regulars have in trying to answer him - particularly when he doesn't answer our questions. I think I know what he is trying to do, but none of us can help if he won't respond!

foghorn2

07-11-06, 07:45 PM

Let's face it: horsegoer really hasn't given us enough information to figure out what he is REALLY trying to do. I specifically asked:

But he hasn't answered. I can see the frustration that we regulars have in trying to answer him - particularly when he doesn't answer our questions. I think I know what he is trying to do, but none of us can help if he won't respond!

Sometimes some users are busy to post and perhaps we are too fast to post. But renting a SA8300HD and paying for Tivo service is overkill and I hope he realizes this by now. Now if Tivo ever releases the 3 series, that would be his solution.

horsegoer

07-11-06, 08:42 PM

DoubleDAZ

07-11-06, 09:05 PM

beau,

The solution is simple (basically reiterating trpltongue's post):

1. Connect the 8300 to your plasma via HDMI. Watch whatever live HD programs you want.

2. Connect your Tivo to a different input on your plasma via S-Video or whatever type of cables you used in the past. Place the Tivo's IR Flashers so that they can control channel changes on the 8300 for recording just like they did with whatever cable box you had before the 8300. Connect the 8300 to the Tivo via S-Video. Use the Tivo to schedule your recordings and watch them to your heart's content.

NOTE: If you are careful with your scheduling of recordings on your Tivo, you can even use the 8300 to record HD and view that via HDMI. The 8300 has two tuners, so while it is recording one, you can have the Tivo recording the other, though you won't be able to watch anything live at the same time.

FWIW, I think you confused a lot of folks by not stating why you have an HD plasma, are paying for an HD DVR, yet don't want to record/view HD, and why you think HDMI is so important when it seems like the bulk of your viewing with be SD Tivo crap. I say "crap" because in the wonderful world of HD, it doesn't make much sense to many of us, me included, why you would want to purchase a plasma and then use if to watch/record SD. But, it's your money and that's good enough for me. :)

RussB

07-11-06, 09:23 PM

Dave I am sorry but I am trying to give the best info I can. I DON"T CARE OR WANT TO RECORD HIDEF. But now I believe I undestand............if I use my TIvo with my 8300HD that will negate the HD an d I will not be able to view HD............well that sucks. Why would anyone have a plasma and not be able to have the capability of viewinw HD. But as I am writing this I think someone did post a way in which I can switch and be able to view HD.................lol....you guys are probab ly yelling at me......sorry.

I think the Tivo is out unless it can be hooked up and record non-hd but then I can view hd on my plasma.You can do what you want to do if your TV has multiple inputs. Use the HDMI connection with the 8300HD and use one of the other connections with the Tivo and select the appropriate connection.

I agree with the points that vegggas made but you are the one using it and you can decide if that is the way you want to use it. You can even use the 8300HD to record and playback any program if you choose to but you are not forced to do that. You might try comparing the picture quality and then deciding. Good Luck!

Note: When I created this post, I hadn't seen DoubleDAZ's post. His post is a lot more detailed but we both have the same idea.

davehancock

07-11-06, 09:24 PM

Dave I am sorry but I am trying to give the best info I can. I DON"T CARE OR WANT TO RECORD HIDEF. But now I believe I undestand............if I use my TIvo with my 8300HD that will negate the HD an d I will not be able to view HD............well that sucks. Why would anyone have a plasma and not be able to have the capability of viewinw HD. But as I am writing this I think someone did post a way in which I can switch and be able to view HD.................lol....you guys are probab ly yelling at me......sorry.

I think the Tivo is out unless it can be hooked up and record non-hd but then I can view hd on my plasma.

Edit: I posted the following while others were posting info too. If the other Dave has given you enough info to work with, you are all set. If not, then provide the info that I ask below.

I think that you can do what I believe what you want to do (Record programs in SD on your TiVo, watch HD programs "live" on your Plasma, not record HD programs on your 8300HD - that sounds crazy to the rest of us, but.......)

Let me ask you these questions:
1) Before you had the 8300 (and the plasma) how did you use the TiVo?
2) Did you have cable?
3) If you had cable, did you use a cable STB, or did you have cable connected directly to the TiVo?
4) If you had a cable STB and used it with the TiVo, did you use an IR blaster from the TiVo to control the cable STB?
5) If the answer to 4) is yes, what make and model STB was it? (Was it a Scientific Atlanta).

Please answer each. That will give me (and us) a clearer picture of what you've got to work with, now that you have a different display and a different cable box.

foghorn2

07-11-06, 10:24 PM

I'd say he should rent a regular SD box and use it with the Tivo. Rent the SA3250HD and get a HDMI<>DVI adaptor.

davehancock

07-11-06, 11:33 PM

DoubleDAZ

07-11-06, 11:45 PM

According to another thread he started complaining about PQ, he's in Long Island, if that helps any.

foghorn2

07-12-06, 12:19 AM

That's obvious - but his cable company told him that the only HD box that they had with HDMI was the 8300HD. So what' a guy to do? Eh? Also, we have never ascertained if his cable company isn't providing the 8300HD with the DVR function disabled (and at the standard non-DVR price.

Lets get him going with what he has.

No he should go with what you agree was obvious. Asking the cable co what he should rent is like asking the used car salesman what car to buy.

Thats why we are the expert consultants here.

vegggas

07-12-06, 12:59 AM

I tend to sound like an ass when I post... and in real life too. :D Sometimes the meds work..., sometimes they don't... :D :D :D But I digress.
Reading your other posts, the best advice I can give is to not use HDMI for SD material. The Plasma you have has issues with 480i material over HDMI, as well as the 8300 having to reformat 480i over the HDMI output. Together the average 480i signal, especially analog (has to be encoded to digital to go out HDMI at the STB), and the plasma has to scale and process the signal to match the panel resolution. Try using the component video outputs and see if that works any better for you. I mentioned this in my pevious post.
BTW, Analog channels look like ass over HDMI, wheras Component usually looks better. Unfortunately, my HDMI link in my sig is now broken, or I woud push you in that direction.
horsegoer,
We underestand if you like the Tivo interface better. Most former Tivo'ers can't switch between the two interfaces without having a fit. The issue I had was that it appeared that you were thinking and asking how you could Tivo the HD content off the STB and not use the built in DVR, which is not possible without downconversion and it's inherent pq issues.
As mentioned by others, I don't think any other advice could be given until davehancock's questions are answered.

"the tude" vegggas

maxman

07-13-06, 08:45 PM

(Comcast S. Jersey) Just received the upgrade here (4X speed, start from beginning on programs currently being recorded, etc.). Don't know the version number.

SeanRiddle

07-14-06, 12:05 AM

Hard Reboot. A Hard Reboot will refresh all available software and modules on the system, as well as clear out the memory cache. The IPG and other data may take up to 30 minutes or more to fully download.
Turn off the 8300 and wait 5 or more seconds.
Unplug the power cord from the 8300 and wait 5 or more seconds.
If you are resetting an external drive too, unplug it's power cord at this point and wait 5 or more seconds, then plug the power cord back into the external drive and wait 5 or more seconds.
Press and hold the power button on the 8300's front panel. While the power button is depressed, plug the 8300 power cord back in. Continue to hold the power button until the 8300 display says "boot" and/or begins to cycle a few times (usually about 15 seconds).
NOTE: A Hard Reboot will resolve MANY issues with not only external drives, but memory issues too. You should WAIT until the reboot is completely finished before powering up. It takes about 5 - 10 min, depending on your application and IPG data. The best way to determine when the download is finished is to watch the front panel indicators. On the front panel, where the : (colon) seperates the hours and minutes, the bottom " . " dot will appear after all the OS firmware has been loaded. An STB getting a download or initializing will be blank. Leave the STB alone until the dot appears.

We've been having lots of problems with the 8300HD, even though we are rebooting once a week. I decided to do a hard reboot to see if that would help. But the box doesn't respond like the first post says it should.

I unplug it, wait, hold in the power button and plug it back in. The display shows "-nu-", then goes blank. Then the display shows "boot", then it goes blank. Then it shows "----", then it shows "12:00", then the colon starts to blink, then the correct time shows up. This is all within a minute, whether I keep holding the power button in, or release when it says "boot".

The only difference I can see between doing this and just doing a front-panel reboot (or unplugging the power cord, which responds the same as the front-panel reboot) is when the display shows "12:00". On the front-panel reboot, the display goes directly from "----" to the correct time.

I'm on Cox cable in OKC on version 1.87.16.1. Is there something I'm doing wrong? I've done hard reboots in the past, but I didn't watch carefully enough to remember if it always acted like this or if it used to act differently.

Thanks-

Sean

jruhnke

07-14-06, 01:31 AM

I'm on Cox cable in OKC on version 1.87.16.1. Is there something I'm doing wrong? I've done hard reboots in the past, but I didn't watch carefully enough to remember if it always acted like this or if it used to act differently.For what it's worth, I'm on TWC in Houston running 1.87.16.1 (until two days ago), and when I follow the hard-reboot instructions, I get exactly the same response you do--only difference from a "normal" reboot is the 12:00 for ~1 sec before the correct time appears. No other obvious changes.

I'm on 1.88.something now, but haven't tried a hard reboot. If I get a chance to try that soon and I see a different response, I'll let you know.

DoubleDAZ

07-14-06, 09:46 AM

I'm on Cox cable in OKC on version 1.87.16.1. Is there something I'm doing wrong? I've done hard reboots in the past, but I didn't watch carefully enough to remember if it always acted like this or if it used to act differently.I doubt you are doing anything wrong. AFAIK, if the boot process detects nothing wrong with the firmware, the 2 boot processes will look and act the same. However, if the firmware doesn't pass muster, then it will be reloaded from the headend, etc. A simple reboot is probably all that is required in most instances. If that doesn't help, then try a hard reboot, but neither are magic and they may not solve the problem.

Harley_Dude

07-14-06, 11:54 AM

Looks like San Antonio TWC finally joined the 1.88 crowd :)

My firmware is now showing at 1.88.17.100. Glad the annoying "kick to live" bug and lack of "play from beginning" are now fixed!

RussB

07-14-06, 06:18 PM

Houston Time Warner Cable decided to download SARA 1.88.x.x to SA 8300 Rev 2.4 type boxes first. This was done early Tuesday morning (7-11-6). Click here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7973718&&#post7973718) to go to the post where this is documented. There is a label on the bottom of the SA 8300 box that lists the Rev type and it also is listed in the Diagnostic pages, click here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7975979&&#post7975979) to go to the post where this is explained. I don't think any of the other Rev types have been updated yet, but there is a post (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7991646&&#post7991646) that they will be updated the last week of July. A lot of the SA 8300 boxes are Rev type 2.2. A couple of people in the Houston area have posted that their Rev type 2.4 SA 8300HD box does not have firewire ports on the back. What are the differences between Rev type 2.2 and 2.4? Has any other cable division updated particular Rev types at different times like Houston is doing?

bkushner

07-16-06, 08:10 AM

MyDogHasFleas

07-16-06, 09:00 AM

Time Warner Cable Austin. I have three SA8300HD boxes. They are using SARA release level 1.88.17.a100. All the boxes have the same problem so it's not a problem with an individual box.

My problem is: the hard drives on these boxes spin up (a bit noisily) EVERY FIVE MINUTES (literally -- I've timed it), stay running for 30 seconds or so, then spin down. I called TWC about it and they offered no help.

Last night, I tried hard rebooting the boxes. They were quiet. Then, this morning, they are all spinning every five minutes, again!

This is all happening with the boxes powered off.

What gives? Anyone else seeing this? My only thought is that it's related to the new feature to spin down the hard drives at 1 AM. But that's a wild-a$$ guess.

I do NOT think this problem existed before my boxes upgraded to 1.88 a month or so ago. But I'm not sure of that.

Help???

RussB

07-16-06, 09:25 AM

Wonder if we will ever be able to RESUME a show after exiting out of the current shows window ala Tivo, Dish etc. I hate watching 1/2 a show, leaving then having to find the point in the show all over again.You can already do that for the last show that you were watching if you exit by changing the channel. If you just pause, stop, or turn off the TV or the Set Top Box, this will not work. You can watch other live shows and even use pause, rewind, and fast forward. To go back to the recorded show you were watching, tune to the playback channel or select the program from the Recorded List. If you watch another recorded show before going back to the original show that you were watching, this will not work. It will start at the beginning. SARA only remembers where you were in the last recorded show that you watched. I hope that SA will change it to remember where you were in all recorded shows.

DoubleDAZ

07-16-06, 11:25 AM

I suspect he knows that, but I must admit I got kind of used to bookmarks when I was using Passport last month. Of course, now that I am back home and control my own schedule (and HT), I don't miss them at all because my viewing habits are back to normal. How anyone can watch half a show, then watch half of another one, and so on, like my son-in-law, is beyond me. As a hard-headed programmer, I probably wouldn't add such bookmarks just out of spite. :)

jruhnke

07-16-06, 07:36 PM

Time Warner Cable Austin. ...using SARA release level 1.88.17.a100.
<snip>
My problem is: the hard drives on these boxes spin up (a bit noisily) EVERY FIVE MINUTES (literally -- I've timed it), stay running for 30 seconds or so, then spin down.
<snip>
I do NOT think this problem existed before my boxes upgraded to 1.88 a month or so ago. But I'm not sure of that.I haven't noticed that, but then again I'm never in that room unless the TV or stereo is on, so it's not something I'm likely to notice.

I do know the HDD control in 1.88.x.x has changed somewhat from prior software versions (I'm with TWC-Houston, and my box just jumped from 1.87 -> 1.88 this week). The HDD now seems to spin down almost immediately after turning the box off, whereas with 1.87.16.1 the HDD could continue to spin for hours before going idle. Sorry that I can't offer any more info than that...

DoubleDAZ

07-16-06, 08:55 PM

FWIW, I also have not noticed anything like this using 1.88.19.1 here on Cox for the past couple of months.

goodg

07-17-06, 04:34 PM

I am a COX user in the Phoenix area. I am really interested in the SARA software update (1.88.xx.xx). Is this something I could get on my cable box now, by calling in to COX or is it something I am just going to have to wait for? Any information on when the update will happen for everyone?

I called COX and spoke to a technical service representative, but he really had no clue about anything. I get the feeling he could only read from a script to resolve problems. :)

davehancock

07-17-06, 05:16 PM

SGinAZ

07-17-06, 06:51 PM

DoubleDAZ

07-17-06, 09:37 PM

They download that automatically. You might have it now.Usually that is the case, but not in this instance.

SGinAZ/goodg,

PM me your 8300's serial number and E-MAC address (bottom of pg 3 in the diag display) and I'll see what I can do. The release is scheduled for Aug 1 (if your box is off Monday night), but it has slipped once already. The reason the box has to be off is that they will try every night for a week before forcing the download and possibly messing up someone's recordings. In the past, they haven't cared what they messed up, but there have been some changes at Cox and that is why I may be able to get you the release early. Idon'tknow when they will do it, but be warned that it might mess up your cable and/or recordings while it is updating, so don't get mad at me. FWIW, this offer was made quite awhile ago in our local forum regarding Firewire/1394 support.

DoubleDAZ

07-18-06, 03:59 PM

SGinAZ

07-18-06, 09:21 PM

Well, I read the thread from beginning to end and found the first page very helpful and useful. I say it's a good thing. :)

DoubleDAZ

07-18-06, 09:37 PM

Just for my info, have you downloaded and read the latest User's Guide? The first post, and the 8000 post it was derived from, were developed when the User's Guide contained very little info other than connection instructions. I know the first post is still useful, but I'm concerned it is taking the place of the new, improved User's Guide and folks are missing out on some more detailed info.

SGinAZ

07-18-06, 09:55 PM

When I first got the unit I grabbed as much info and as many manuals as I could find. I actually had already gotten the lastest manual from SA. I don't think the first post replaces but rather supplements the user manual. Perhaps a "READ THIS MANUAL FIRST" notice at the beginning of the thread might get people to use it as a starting point before getting to the other information below it...

vegggas

07-18-06, 10:38 PM

Remember way back when we had no documentation at all? Everything was guesswork... and we had to read upside down and in the snow with bare feet!

Keep up the good work - The 8300 is getting much more usage than the 8000 ever did!

vegggas

DeathRay

07-18-06, 11:20 PM

Oh man I'm about to get this DVR and I hear rumors (okay I searched this thread and found out) that there is no 30 second skip?

Boo!

I use that all the time on my Dish 622 and use to use it on the Moto 6412 with Comcast.

Did I say boo?

Any chance this will be added at some point?

Boo!

DoubleDAZ

07-18-06, 11:22 PM

I remember those days all to well , but that's how I met you, so it wasn't all bad. :)

I don't know how you feel, but I always enjoyed those days. There is something to be said for being around in the beginning, problems and all, gives you a better appreciation for the improvements that have come along over the years. Heck, if the 8000/8300 were like they are now back then, I know at least 2 large threads that might not even exist. :)

Besides, you started it all and all the kudos go to you!

DoubleDAZ

07-18-06, 11:28 PM

Any chance this will be added at some point?Highly doubtful, it's also been deleted from some other DVRs and is actually a hack in Tivo's AFAIK. You'll probably be lucky if FF is not disabled at some point, there's a separate thread about ABC and FF.

stosh

07-19-06, 10:31 AM

there's no 30 sec skip, but we just got (Mpls) the "4th" arrow in ff and Rewind. It's probably not a 30 second skip but it's pretty fast. I have no complaints, other than it's so fast that I always overshoot the program and have to rewind.

Just to add to what Dave said above, I think with this latest SARA software update has been the one where I feel the we've made the most progress (also the most stable). In some ways, I wish the original release had contained this version of the software. Most of the annoying bus are gone (mostly the live kickout when the show ends). For me now, (if SA fixed what I wanted), I would like to have searching in the program guide re-worked. It takes way to long to scroll through the listings to find and schedule a recording. There's got to be an easier way to find things. I've never used a Tivo, but I bet they've got a much better way of searching and scheduling recordings.

jrguzmanr

07-19-06, 03:22 PM

RussB

07-19-06, 05:17 PM

FWIW, the first post has been updated to include a link to the latest SA8300HD User's Guide and I've also added some page references for some of the tips.

BTW, does anyone know if there is a way to fnd out how many times a given post has been viewed and when it was last viewed. It would be interesting to know if the first post is even being used anymore. :)Thanks Dave for updating the first post. I think referencing the SA8300HD User's Guide will help people to fully utilize the functions of the DVR. I think all new users should read the first post. Also, I think users who have gotten 1.88.x.x should review the first post and the latest SA8300HD User's Guide to see what is new.

vegggas

07-19-06, 06:10 PM

Dave,
I referenced sopmeone to the first page to get details on how to enter "Advanced setup mode", which I suggest all users do. I thought it was there before, but now I don't actually see it.

Reference from 8000 guide:

Instructions for the Advanced Setup Wizard to choose TV type and resolutions. Done after the box has gotten it's initial download from your MSO. These should be done using the HD outputs for true displays, but may be "falsely" viewed with SD outputs.
1) WALK UP TO THE BOX, Turn off power, then press both the GUIDE and INFO buttons at the same time - YOU CAN'T USE THE REMOTE FOR STEP 1
2) Choose Easy or Advanced setup - Easy selects 480i and 1080i outputs only - Advanced allows TV type (4X3 VS. 16X9) and user selected outputs
3) Follow instructions on the screen to set your output resolutions - READ carefully in advanced mode- If the screen goes blank, it is showing a resolution your TV does not support and you have to disable that output. It will cycle through all resolutions for 30 seconds each if no user input is given.

vegggas

vegggas

07-19-06, 06:17 PM

I have an 8300HD and some programs show up on the recorded list but when I hit play, either I get a blank (dark) screen or I get a a screen that tells me to press "DVR" (the remote button) or the channel +/- button. Somebody else posted this same problem and the response was to check the external drive connection. I don't have an external drive. oh, I also did a hard reboot, to no avail.

thanks
Either corrupted video files, or headers. A hard reboot should clear this issue, unless the recorded data is completely trashed. If that is the case, it can only be deleted.
Are you sure that you are turning off the STB, pulling out the AC cable, waiting 30 seconds, then, while holding down the power button, insert AC cable, and watch the display go through it's boot sequence while still holding the power button for about a 90 seconds until it goes through it's boot sequence and requests a data refresh and rebuilds the drive data?
Did I mention you have to hold the power button while applying power and it's boot sequence? :)

vegggas

KenV500

07-19-06, 07:53 PM

DoubleDAZ

07-19-06, 09:38 PM

I referenced someone to the first page to get details on how to enter "Advanced setup mode", which I suggest all users do. I thought it was there before, but now I don't actually see it.I don't believe I ever included that in the 8300 Guude because folks were directed to review the 8000 Guide and it was already there. But I've put it in now, just for you, :) and referenced the latest User's Guide, pg 3.

vegggas

07-19-06, 11:38 PM

My problem is: the hard drives on these boxes spin up (a bit noisily) EVERY FIVE MINUTES (literally -- I've timed it), stay running for 30 seconds or so, then spin down. I called TWC about it and they offered no help.

Yea, I'm getting the same thing from TW in Portland Maine, running 1.88.17.1. Sometimes I just unplug the box to shut it up!! I was wondering if it was video on demand crap??? I may return the dvr for a tuner if a solution cannot be found...
Video on demand is just that - on demand. A stream is created from the remote server content when you choose it, not stored on your drive in case you want it.

Sounds like the OS and Drive Utilities are clearing the fragmentation and re-writing the contents. Unplugging the STB will actually cause it to last longer s the files being defragged will become possibly corrupted and more fragmented.
I suggest, the next time you are leaving the house, turn off the STB, then doing a hard reboot to clear the memory, buffers, and orphaned video headers. After you have held the power down for about 90 seconds during the hard reboot (to clear and rebuild the tables) powerup sequence, let go, and leave the STB off while you go about your business. About 5 - 10 minutes later, the drive should start chugging away at any framentation issues, which may take several hours to complete.

vegggas

IndyPetey

07-20-06, 12:01 AM

I configured my picture formats to have 1080i, 720p, 480p Widescreen, and 480i Widescreen as I'm using a Widescreen television. I didn't allow it to have 480p Standard and 480i Standard. When I watch basic channels that are 480i, for some reason, the box registers them at 1080i. When I check off the 480i Standard option, the channels are then 480i but not in Widescreen. I'm running through HDMI and have the settings set to Auto DVI/HDMI so I know it isn't that. I'm not sure on the firmware I'm using and my Cable provider is Cablevision. Do I need to have the Standard options enabled or am I doing something else wrong? Thanks in advance!

DoubleDAZ

07-20-06, 12:12 AM

Widescreen is used if you want the box to stretch the image. Standard is used if you want the TV to do the stretch. If you use Standard (I believe most of us do), then you need to set your TV to stretch the image. Most TVs do a better job of stretching and have more options, plus they often lose less of the image.

IndyPetey

07-20-06, 12:18 AM

DoubleDAZ

07-20-06, 12:21 AM

No, but you can surely find out by trying it. My HDTV has an Expanded mode that stretches the sides and leaves the center mostly intact.

I should have mentioned that I'm not sure why 480i comes through as 1080i when using the Widescreen format.

DEIFan

07-20-06, 10:48 PM

I should have mentioned that I'm not sure why 480i comes through as 1080i when using the Widescreen format.

Since the source channels are not 480i Widescreen (don't know any that broadcast that anyway) it may default to 1080i since the boxes (at least here) are shipped out that way, with only 1080i active.

DoubleDAZ

07-20-06, 10:51 PM

Yeah, vegggas posted some info a while back on how the 8300 determines format when there isn't a specific match enabled. Seems like 480i WS would be closer to 480i than 1080i though. :)

DEIFan

07-20-06, 10:54 PM

Come on....there's no place for logic here Dave! :D

DoubleDAZ

07-20-06, 10:59 PM

Yah, I forgot we were talking about the 8300 here, beloved and hated at the same time. :)

SGinAZ

07-20-06, 11:30 PM

Dave,

I just checked my box and it's on 1.88.19.1. Thanks for the assist. :)

DoubleDAZ

07-20-06, 11:32 PM

No problem, just send me any comments you might have.

bkushner

07-21-06, 01:58 AM

Anyone having problems with the new Software downloaded on the South Jersey 8300's?

I was on the 187.23.xxx software and they changed it to the 188.xxx.xx version and nothing but problems.

My external drive all of a sudden will start making a CLUNKING sound even when the unit is off and I can't access programs on it until I reboot it and the 8300. The other day I was going through the guide looking for content to record and all of a sudden a big FAIL appears in the channel window, had to reboot.

One other annoying thing, I have the unit set to come on at one of my HD channels, since the upgrade when it comes on it is in 480I, I have to tune to another hd channel to get it out of the 480i mode.

Help?

Brian