I think its more a combination of the First Run and the Placeholders. Showing in the IPG a scheduled recording, even if its just a placeholder, just sounds like a bad idea anyway.

Hardware manufacturers should stick to hardware and let software companies do the software.

This WORKED for me! Mr. Hancock, you are the man. The 8300 is basically moving from a SD setup to an HD setup and couldn't kick itself out of SD. Even when I connected component it would still boot up (as it did yesterday morning) with a red screen, after dropping into SD mode.

I finally did a hard reboot (I had previously rebooted but not a hard reboot) with nothing but HDMI plugged in and the AVR and TV on. Entered the HD setup wizard and started messing around with switching inputs and powering items on and off and everything looks good so far.

For those unfamiliar with my situation, any time I switched inputs on the AVR or TV, the 8300 dropped me to SD. Changing environments wasn't kind without a hard reboot. Lesson learned. Thanks :DGood to know it worked. My circumstances are that I frequently copy HD programs to a DVD. There is a trick that allows me to send that image to the DVD-R in anamorphic ("squeezed") form. The trick requires that the box be set up as a SD box so that the Zoom ("#") key on the remote will do a squeeze. This trick worked fine until our latest SARA version, then the box would drop out of SD mode (back into HD mode) at any time. I found that doing the hard reboot (magic cure for most everything, it seems) I made it stay in SD. But then there was this new problem: After the automatic power down that TW forces here every morning, the box would then always come up in SD mode. I ultimately figured that if I ran the set-up wizzard for HD and then did a hard reboot, the mode that I was in was "fixed". So when you mentioned your problem, I thought that this would be the fix.

Oh yes, that DVD-R anamorphic "trick" really workes nicely - allows a higher quality recording of HD programs (still not HD, but is close to real DVD quality).

Oh yes, that DVD-R anamorphic "trick" really workes nicely - allows a higher quality recording of HD programs (still not HD, but is close to real DVD quality).

Sorry, I'll bite. WHat DVD-R anamorphic "trick"? Please do tell.

Thanks,

nv

Sorry, I'll bite. WHat DVD-R anamorphic "trick"? Please do tell.

Thanks,

nv
:rolleyes: It's in the paragraph just above the sentence you quoted.

Sorry, I'll bite. WHat DVD-R anamorphic "trick"? Please do tell.

Thanks,

nvWell, as pepar said, it was in the previous paragraph. However, I'll provide a little more info: Most widescreen DVD's are "enhanced for widescreen". What that means is that they squeeze a 16:9 image onto a 4:3 frame. If you try to record a HD program from your 8300 onto a DVD (I recommend doing that through the S-Video connection) in the regular or "copy to VCR" mode, you will get a letterboxed recording. This means that you have lost the image data that goes in the black bars above and below the picture. A way around this is to "squeeze" (thats the anamorphic part) the 16:9 picture, so that it fills the 4:3 frame.

Most versions of SARA (don't believe that you can do this in Passport) allow you to get this squeezed image from the composite and S-Video outputs WHEN THE BOX IS IN THE SD MODE. The details of doing that (assuming that you are familiar with the set-up wizzard) were in that previous paragraph. This trick does not work in the "copy to VCR" mode, so you can't be watching something else while making the recording. I also note that with my current version of SARA, that the component outputs go to SD AND the image becomes just magenta when I do this (the S-Video is OK though).

It's a bit of a hassle to go through this process, so I usually limit my recording sessions to once every other week or so (I have an external drive so I can "queue up" quite a bit of stuff to transfer).

Hope that this answers your questions.

pepar,

First Run recordings work just fine with SARA, mine recorded Boston Legal, and others, too. While we don't have the Series Manager, the Place-Holders stay in our scheduled list and will pick up when a program returns. For example, I have a PH for 24 and it will kick in in January when 24 returns. The only real difference between Passport and SARA is that the PH sometimes highlights programs in the IPG making it look like something will get recorded. Not a good way of doing things, but better than it used to be, and it probably won't get fixed before we all get something new like I-Guide, Navigator, Tivo, etc.

I had a hard time finding any specific info on compatibility with a eSATA (external storage) drive and Comcast programmed 8300HD DVR units... so I decided to give it a go. And it works!

First off, this is what I have:

Comcast Cable
Scientific Atlanta Explorer 8300HD DVR (160GB version)
SARA DVR OS
Seagate 500GB External eSATA drive (this damned forum won't let me list the URL, sorry. but it's the pretty external one that's in stores everywhere)
eSATA cable (came with drive)

This is what I did:

I had an issue at first and thought maybe the eSATA port was disabled, but it wasn't (I'll spare you the DUH! story). What I figured out is that you need to completely reboot the 8300 AFTER attaching the powered on eSATA drive. Once you reboot, the 8300 will (eventually) ask you to format the drive. Hit yes and it takes about 30 seconds to do so. When it's completed it'll give you a message that the drive is formatted and compatible with the 8300. That's it! Pretty darn easy if you ask me. I'm amazed really. I confirmed that it works by listening to the Seagate hard drive during a recording... I can hear the drive working and the DVR's hard drive isn't. Strange thing is the SARA info screen doesn't report the hard drive new size... but whatever. It's all good. (I'm guessing the firmware wasn't designed to report external storage sizes)

Cons:

You can't "combine" storage and use both hard drives (internal and external). The recorder is only able to write to a single drive. So make sure you get significantly BIGGER external drive if you're going to do this or your wasting your time and money. Still, I'm able to record about 60hrs in full HD compared to the original 20.

Pros:

Way more storage
Easy
That seagate drive is SILENT and much quieter than the one in the DVR.
Adding the extra storage didn't delete my already recorded programs on the DVR's hard drive (yay!)

Hope this helps all the Comcast users out there! (Hoping google will index it too!)

Jesse

Jesse,

I don't know why you posted all that in this thread vs the SATA thread, I assume you got your threads mixed up. :)

At any rate, your somewhat wrong with your "combine" comment. While you can't specify which drive a recording goes to, the 8300 uses both drives based on which one has more space available. Once you connect an external drive, recordings will go there until it gets fairly full, then recordings will go back to the internal drive. After you view and delete some on the external, new recordings will then go there.

Your internal drive has about 152G of useable space and your external something less than 450G or so. I'm not sure what the exact overhead is on a 500G drive, but overhead increases as size increases and negatively affects the "bang for the buck" factor, though you will always have more space with a larger drive. :)

Yeah I put it in the wrong thread. Oh well. As far as the combining thing, where do you read that? Or have you seen it happen? The 8300HD's manual says it can only use one or the other... Unless I misread.

Anyways, thanks for the reply. :-)

Yeah I put it in the wrong thread. Oh well. As far as the combining thing, where do you read that? Or have you seen it happen? The 8300HD's manual says it can only use one or the other... Unless I misread.

Anyways, thanks for the reply. :-)I think what you read in the 8300HD's manual means that it does not split a single recording between discs.

Correct. SA will never be accused of being too concise and exact with their documentation. :)

Although I can't point to something in any SA documentation that says it, each recording goes on a single drive, but both drives get used. I don't believe it records 1 on the external and 1 on the internal when 2 recordings are in progress, but I don't know that anyone has done any specific tests on that. I believe someone mentioned that the 8300 has a single drive controller. If that is true, then it would seem to indicate that 2 recordings in progress would have to use the same drive. At any rate, just ask those in the SATA thread who have done the tests themselves if you don't believe me or want more specific info.

Recordings are never split between drives and new recordings always go to the drive with the most space.

Please tell me the 3 digit code I can enter into my Samsung HLS 6188 remote so I can control the SA8300 HD.

Please tell me the 3 digit code I can enter into my Samsung HLS 6188 remote so I can control the SA8300 HD.

Maybe someone will know it, but I'm betting you'll have better success posting that in the Samsung DLP forum.. ?

Please tell me the 3 digit code I can enter into my Samsung HLS 6188 remote so I can control the SA8300 HD.

According to my Samsung LCD owner's manual, it's either 042 or 043 for Scientific Atlanta cable boxes. This may or may not work for you, but give it a try.

Many people including myself have reported having problems using HDMI with the 8300s. I had both my 8300HDs set to output only 1080i, which works fine with a component cable connection. As an experiment I decided to try HDMI with the 8300s configured to output all resolutions. HDMI now works for both of my boxes.

What version of SARA do you have? Is it different than when you were having problems?

It's the same version 1.88.17.a100.
Someone on another thread also reported that he was outputing just 1080i and using HDMI. He started having problems, when he was upgraded to the new Navigator software. He is now configured to output all resolutions over HDMI and everything is working.

It's the same version 1.88.17.a100.
Someone on another thread also reported that he was outputing just 1080i and using HDMI. He started having problems, when he was upgraded to the new Navigator software. He is now configured to output all resolutions over HDMI and everything is working.Can you provide a link to that thread? I would like to hear some first-hand observations about Navigator combined with the 8300HD.

Also, I have the same SARA version that you do, and I am using component rather than HDMI due to all the problems that have been reported here in Austin. The consensus is that there is no appreciable difference in picture quality between the two. Do you agree?

Thanks!

Scarlett

Scarlett,

The thread that mentions the “Navigator” software has more to do with why the box was set to output only 1080i. The Panasonic plasmas have an annoying delayed response, when switching channels, if the first channel has a different resolution than the next channel. This is the thread. http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9111572&&#post9111572

My impression of HDMI vs. component is that they are very close, when it comes to picture quality. My primary reason for using HDMI is to free up a component input on the TV. Some people prefer HDMI because it’s only one cable vs. component’s 5 cables (audio & video).

I've got a 8300 HD box and had been connecting it to my 42" Westinghouse LCD but recently got a PS3 and want to use the one HDMI spot on my LCD for that. My question is what exactly do I need in order to hook up my 8300 box to a DVI plug. I plan on buying the cord(s) and/or adapter at monoprice.com so if you could link to exactly what I need I'd appreciate it. Thanks

I've got a 8300 HD box and had been connecting it to my 42" Westinghouse LCD but recently got a PS3 and want to use the one HDMI spot on my LCD for that. My question is what exactly do I need in order to hook up my 8300 box to a DVI plug. I plan on buying the cord(s) and/or adapter at monoprice.com so if you could link to exactly what I need I'd appreciate it. Thanks
You just need a HDMI>DVI adapter cable and can get them anywhere. If you rely on HDMI for your audio from the 8300, you'll have to connect either a digital out jack or the analog LR audio outputs to your panel as well.

I use an HDMI cable with the 8300HD with a Westinghouse W4207 monitor. Everything I read about this monitor said that it worked best at 720p and lost detail at 1080i. So I set the picture format to fixed and left it at 720p for everything--SD and HD. My report? It works flawlessly. SD is DVD quality and HD is heavenly. In Houston, the signal is 100% digital and that probably makes the difference. But even so, I have no SD problems. Why use 480i or 480p when I can use 720p on all stations? On this monitor 720p is vastly superior to 1080i, which is not its native format.

As to component vs. HDMI, I have found that the HDMI is superior in (almost) every way. The stipulation has to do with the audio. As you know, you must manually select Dolby audio in the setup menu for the 8300HD if your TV (in my case monitor) where the monitor is not capable of converting to Dolby. But my wife likes TV speakers (stereo) and I like surround sound so a compromise had to be found (my monitor is in the bedroom after all....) Fortunately my receiver for ProLogic Dolby is ten years old and only inputs analog audio and then converts it to Dolby somehow. (probably through ProLogic) My solution is to route the audio out from the 8300HD analog LR audio outputs with RCA plugs to the receiver and to shut off the Monitor speakers when I use the receiver. Otherwise we just use the monitor speakers. We watch movies and DVDs with surround sound and TV programs with the internal speakers.

You just need a HDMI>DVI adapter cable and can get them anywhere. If you rely on HDMI for your audio from the 8300, you'll have to connect either a digital out jack or the analog LR audio outputs to your panel as well.

Would this work:

http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=102&cp_id=10231&cs_id=1023104&p_id=2404&seq=1&format=2&style=

I would then use the audio cables that came with the box to get sound

Would this work:

http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=102&cp_id=10231&cs_id=1023104&p_id=2404&seq=1&format=2&style=

I would then use the audio cables that came with the box to get sound
Personally, I'd look for a heavier wire gauge - 25ga.

From the quick search (http://www.monoprice.com/products/search.asp?spcDB=10231&spcWord=Video%20Cable%20-%20<b>HDMI/DVI</b>&keyword=hdmi%20dvi%20cable) I did, all they had were 28, 24, and 22, though the lengths and prices varied quite a bit. The 3ft 24's were more than twice the price of the 6ft 28 and were without the ferite cores. I don't know enough about HDMI to know the difference.

Dave,
My reaction was that was one of pepar's typical responses. You should know not to take him seriously (well usually). :rolleyes:

The other Dave

I would assume then, for Weasel's sake, that the one in the link he provided would be just fine. I don't use HDMI, so I really don't know, though that is probably something I'd try. :)

I have an 8300HD and I can not get the remote to change audio volume setting. The remote works fine for changing channels,etc. Conversely I can change the audio volume manually using the buttons on the front of the 8300HD . In fact when attempting to change audio volume via remote it doesn't even show the volume bar on the TV. Is there any setting on the 8300HD that disables audio volume from being changed via remote? Thanks in advance for any info.

General Settings/Audio:Volume Ctrl (should be Variable).

Dave,
My reaction was that was one of pepar's typical responses. You should know not to take him seriously (well usually). :rolleyes:

The other Dave
No, I was serious. Twenty-eight gauge wire is barely there. The cable linked by the OP didn't mention if the wire was solid or stranded; I'd recommend solid. I suppose certified for 1080p is certified for 1080p; my recommendation is based on longer term durability issues.

Is there an emoticon for "I'm serious?" :rolleyes:

Well, I took your post as serious, that's why I did the search of that site to find the 24/22 alternatives. But then, I can't tell the difference between a set of cable-supplied Component cables and a set of Monster Component cables, so what do I know? :)

Well, I took your post as serious, that's why I did the search of that site to find the 24/22 alternatives. But then, I can't tell the difference between a set of cable-supplied Component cables and a set of Monster Component cables, so what do I know? :)
Your bank account can tell the difference! :)

You a Pink Floyd fan, Dave?

General Settings/Audio:Volume Ctrl (should be Variable).It may be because I'm using HDMI, but I can't tell a difference in the audio level between Fixed and Variable.

The only visible difference: With Variable, there is a scroll bar along the bottom of the screen that is labeled "Volume:", and I can shorten the bar by holding down the "Vol -" button, or lengthen it the bar with the "Vol +" button, but the actual audio level stays the same.

Originally, I had problems with an uneven sound level because I had set it for Audio: Range = Narrow. This caused occasional annoying fluctuations, especially in live sports events (e.g., a drop of at least 12dB for three or four seconds after a sudden loud noise such as a big cheer from the crowd), but I finally figured out that it works better when set for Wide. This eliminated the fluctuations, but lowered the sound level out of the 8300HD by something like 6dB, maybe more. So I would like to be able to raise the sound level, but have not figured out how to do so. If anyone has any ideas of settings that would help, I would appreciate it.

The 8300HD is connected by HDMI to my Sony KDF-E42A10, and I'm using the Sony's analog audio outputs to connect to my 1994-vintage Denon AVR-3000.

STB volume control will only control ANALOG audio outputs. HDMI, Optical and coaxial use Digital audio, which must be controlled by the recieving device, such as your TV or Stereo. If you use digital interconnects, you need to change the volume on the end device.

pepar - It looks like you followed me over to the Pink Floyd DVD-A side - You will NOT be dissapointed!

vegggas

I have an 8300HD and I can not get the remote to change audio volume setting. The remote works fine for changing channels,etc. Conversely I can change the audio volume manually using the buttons on the front of the 8300HD . In fact when attempting to change audio volume via remote it doesn't even show the volume bar on the TV. Is there any setting on the 8300HD that disables audio volume from being changed via remote? Thanks in advance for any info.
Most remotes can be setup so that the "volume" up/down buttons control either the SA8300HD
or an external device, such as the TV or Receiver.
Could be that your remote is set up for the latter.
You should check Cable Operator website to download manual for your particular remote control device.

No, I was serious. Twenty-eight gauge wire is barely there. The cable linked by the OP didn't mention if the wire was solid or stranded; I'd recommend solid. I suppose certified for 1080p is certified for 1080p; my recommendation is based on longer term durability issues.

Is there an emoticon for "I'm serious?" :rolleyes:

Well, First one can never tell if you are serious or not. But the Suggestion of Twenty-FIVE gauge, was a tip off to me (and I guess a typo to you). Unless it is some sort of custom, there is no such thing as 25 AWG wire or cable.

But now we know that your really were serious:

Durability aside: the gauge for HDMI cable is not of importance, the impedance of these circuits are not low enough to warrant a higher conductivity that comes with lower gauge wires. What is more important is the capacitance of the wires (rarely specified) and the evenness of the twist of the twisted pairs in the cable. It has been reported elsewhere that some "high end" HDMI cables have been deficient in this department.

Now regarding durability: There are lots of other factors doing into that, including (probably most importantly) the quality of the connectors. But HDMI cables are usually not ones that are subject to a lot of flex, etc. so do we care? I am a bit puzzled by your suggestion of solid wire of 25AWG, that would be less flexible and less durable than stranded.

The particular 28AWG cables sold by monoprice have been used by tons of people. Frankly, I use one with my Accupel HDG-3000 signal generator for calibrations - so it's subject to lots of use. I've had excellent experience with them (besides, if I accidentally leave one at a customer's house I'm only out a few bucks).

STB volume control will only control ANALOG audio outputs. HDMI, Optical and coaxial use Digital audio, which must be controlled by the recieving device, such as your TV or Stereo. If you use digital interconnects, you need to change the volume on the end device.vegggas


I am using HDMI video but using analog audio due to limiations of my system. The volume control buttons on front of 8300HD work fine to manually control volume. Its just the 8300HD remote control which does not work. I am using "variable" audio setting. Do I correctly interpret vegggas comment to say this is correct ? Thanks for any input!

Most remotes are programed to control the TV volume and not the box. Check your Cable Company's or remote company's website for instructions to program the remote.

RemyM/holl_ands are correct and I should have included that in my response. If you have an SA remote that came with your 8300, look for theinstructions regarding controlling volume. If you don't have a manual, you shoud be able to download one from SA's website, their Explorer Club part. If you are using a different remote and can't figure it out, give ussome more specific info and we'llt ry to help.

Well, First one can never tell if you are serious or not. But the Suggestion of Twenty-FIVE gauge, was a tip off to me (and I guess a typo to you). Unless it is some sort of custom, there is no such thing as 25 AWG wire or cable.
HAH! (http://www.ramelectronics.net/html/DVI-hdmi_cables.html#hdmidvi-r2)

Durability aside: the gauge for HDMI cable is not of importance, the impedance of these circuits are not low enough to warrant a higher conductivity that comes with lower gauge wires. What is more important is the capacitance of the wires (rarely specified) and the evenness of the twist of the twisted pairs in the cable. It has been reported elsewhere that some "high end" HDMI cables have been deficient in this department.

Now regarding durability: There are lots of other factors doing into that, including (probably most importantly) the quality of the connectors. But HDMI cables are usually not ones that are subject to a lot of flex, etc. so do we care? I am a bit puzzled by your suggestion of solid wire of 25AWG, that would be less flexible and less durable than stranded.

The particular 28AWG cables sold by monoprice have been used by tons of people. Frankly, I use one with my Accupel HDG-3000 signal generator for calibrations - so it's subject to lots of use. I've had excellent experience with them (besides, if I accidentally leave one at a customer's house I'm only out a few bucks).
Gosh, I know I'm in for it when I see colons. :rolleyes:

Your concerns about other factors involved in constructing a quality cable are well founded. I think that the average HDMI cable sees much more mishandling than you or I are ever likely to cause. And I believe there are people pulling them out by the wire. That is the reason I feel that a cable made with a solid conductor - mostly where it mates to the connector - is more durable. Notice how I reiterated and further explained my opinion without being dismissive of yours? ;) :)

Is the 8300HD capable of accepting a connection from an OTA antenna as well?

Here in my market, we cannot get ABC or FOX in HD via Cox Communications, and I would REALLY like them for the College Bowl games.

Is the 8300HD capable of accepting a connection from an OTA antenna as well?
OTA signals are a different modulation scheme and cannot be received on the 8300HD.

Well chit :)

Time to hunt down a decent OTA receiver and antenna for a temp solution until D* gets local HDs and I can switch.

Well chit :)

Time to hunt down a decent OTA receiver and antenna for a temp solution until D* gets local HDs and I can switch.
Doesn't your TV have a tuner?

I have Westinghouse LCD, so no.

I have Westinghouse LCD, so no.For the record: Some Westinghouse LCDs do have ATSC tuners - the LVM series do not.

New annoyance with the SA8300HD.

When I am watching a show, the 8300 will switch to another channel where I have scheduled a recording! It never did this before, must be some new firmware bug. It is annoying to be watching one show, and as soon as the clock changes.......bang...I'm on the channel that I scheduled a recording on.

I think this happens when you have 2 shows scheduled and you are watching a channel that is different from the channels you are recording.

This is not a bug. The 8300HD has two tuners. This machine can only process two signals at a time. If you have two shows being recorded, you must watch one or the other, or an already recorded show. You can not watch a third program because the tuners are in use by the shows being recorded. It states this clearly in the manual. Joe

It is annoying to be watching one show, and as soon as the clock changes.......bang...I'm on the channel that I scheduled a recording on.If your TV set has a built-in QAM tuner, and if you want the option of watching something live (on an unscrambled channel) while the 8300HD is recording two programs, you could install a splitter. You would just need to make sure you don't drop the signal level to the 8300HD enough that its ability to record shows is affected.

New annoyance with the SA8300HD.

When I am watching a show, the 8300 will switch to another channel where I have scheduled a recording! It never did this before, must be some new firmware bug. It is annoying to be watching one show, and as soon as the clock changes.......bang...I'm on the channel that I scheduled a recording on.If you only have one recording scheduled and this still happens, try rebooting the 8300. Reboot information is in the first post. I have seen this happen and rebooting fixed it for me.

ok i feel dumb but i gotta ask..... so i bought a SATA external drive but it only has USB out....and that doesn't fit in the SATA part of the SA 8300HD (duh)....

and all external drives i've been seeing are either USB or firewire....how do you find one that fits into this SATA port? (is there a USB to SATA adaptor???) does eSATA work too? whatever eSATA is...

If you only have one recording scheduled and this still happens, try rebooting the 8300. Reboot information is in the first post. I have seen this happen and rebooting fixed it for me.


I only have ONE scheduled recording.

Example:

I am watching the news on CBS at 6:30-7:00pm. I have a scheduled recording on ABC at 7:00pm. At 7:00, the 8300 switches from CBS to ABC automatically.

I will try re-booting.

Sometimes the 8300 seems to get stuck in single-tuner mode. I've seen posts indicating some folks have been told by CSRs to bring up the PIP window and switch tuners to activate the second tuner. I doubt this is the case, but that procedure may have cleared something just like a reboot should. BTW, don't forget to try the "hard" reboot that is mentioned in the first post if a regular reboot doesn't help.

ok i feel dumb but i gotta ask..... so i bought a SATA external drive but it only has USB out....and that doesn't fit in the SATA part of the SA 8300HD (duh)....

and all external drives i've been seeing are either USB or firewire....how do you find one that fits into this SATA port? (is there a USB to SATA adaptor???) does eSATA work too? whatever eSATA is...
You need to - attentively - search for an external SATA drive with an eSATA interface. Try to avoid those with anything other than the eSATA connection. Other output formats indicates circuitry that *could* interfere with the 8300HD reading/writing data.

All,

This is a cross-post from the eSATA thread in case there are people in here with working eSATA setups, or people who have given up on eSATA that have stopped following the eSATA thread.

I have created a database to track SARA 8300HD eSATA compatibility. If you have experience with this, either positive or negative, please log your results here:

http://baseportal.com/cgi-bin/baseportal.pl?Id=2&htx=/xnappo/main

Thanks!
xnappo

Your link is broken.

Your link is broken.
Thanks, fixed now...
http://baseportal.com/cgi-bin/baseportal.pl?Id=2&htx=/xnappo/main

xnappo

Ok, the fact that the 8300 won't show more than 7 days of shows in the guide is really pissing me off...

Ok, the fact that the 8300 won't show more than 7 days of shows in the guide is really pissing me off...Gee, what a helpful tip. :)

Anyway, you do know that 7 days is all Cox-Phoenix offers, right? If you want to complain, complain that they only offer 7 days in their guide (and that really is a topic for the Phoenix thread, not this one). BTW, you should have been around when it was only 3 days worth. :D

Thanks, fixed now...
http://baseportal.com/cgi-bin/baseportal.pl?Id=2&htx=/xnappo/main

xnappo

Great idea for the dB. I've added mine. Works flawlessly.

TTx

Ok, the fact that the 8300 won't show more than 7 days of shows in the guide is really pissing me off...
That won't change the way it works.



:)

That won't change the way it works.



:)

Really? I thought if I complained about it here, it would increase the guide timeframe.

Duh.

I'm not much of an enthusiast but hope that you all can help me.

Comcast came and installed an SA8300 DVR box to replace my regular digital cable box, only $5. more a month...seemed like a good idea. After installing it we turned on the Sony 50" grand wega lcd tv and the cable guy went through a set-up menu. The end result was that the picture on all channels (even the previously full screen hdtv channels) was inside a smaller box on the screen. Noting filled the screen.

Cable guy went through set-up routine again and said the it "must be some wierd settings on your tv". After trying a few more times, he said, "I've seen this before, it's just the way it works, if you don't like it I'll remove it."

I had him remove it and go away. I think he was just stupid, it's inconceivable to me that Comcast would use a product that did not let the customer get the full use of their tv. Who the heck would sign up?

I have since called Comcast and rescheduled after the phone person assured me that it would work just fine. They are coming Dec. 20 (Weds) and i won't be home. Wife will. My instructions are that no one should touch the TV because the phone person said that all adjustments were on the dvr.

Any good advice? Thanks for reading this.

I'm not much of an enthusiast but hope that you all can help me.

Comcast came and installed an SA8300 DVR box to replace my regular digital cable box, only $5. more a month...seemed like a good idea. After installing it we turned on the Sony 50" grand wega lcd tv and the cable guy went through a set-up menu. The end result was that the picture on all channels (even the previously full screen hdtv channels) was inside a smaller box on the screen. Noting filled the screen.

Cable guy went through set-up routine again and said the it "must be some wierd settings on your tv". After trying a few more times, he said, "I've seen this before, it's just the way it works, if you don't like it I'll remove it."

I had him remove it and go away. I think he was just stupid, it's inconceivable to me that Comcast would use a product that did not let the customer get the full use of their tv. Who the heck would sign up?

I have since called Comcast and rescheduled after the phone person assured me that it would work just fine. They are coming Dec. 20 (Weds) and i won't be home. Wife will. My instructions are that no one should touch the TV because the phone person said that all adjustments were on the dvr.

Any good advice? Thanks for reading this.Comcast has the nasty habit of using a lot of (incompetent) contractors. The 8300HD certainly can fill your TV. Was your previous STB a HD one? Did it fill your frame on HD? How did he connect the STB to the TV? It MUST be either component or HDMI to get HD. I've heard of cable installers connecting using the RF output and channel 3 on the TV. That was so decades ago! :eek:

Comcast has the nasty habit of using a lot of (incompetent) contractors. The 8300HD certainly can fill your TV. Was your previous STB a HD one? Did it fill your frame on HD? How did he connect the STB to the TV? It MUST be either component or HDMI to get HD. I've heard of cable installers connecting using the RF output and channel 3 on the TV. That was so decades ago! :eek:

Thanks!

Yes it was an HD unit. It did (does) fill the frame.

I have no idea how he connected it, but will keep a close eye (or have my wife keep a close eye) this Wednesday. I promise to come back to this thread to report the result.

I am in Manassas, Virginia if that's important to anything.

I'm not much of an enthusiast but hope that you all can help me.

Comcast came and installed an SA8300 DVR box to replace my regular digital cable box, only $5. more a month...seemed like a good idea. After installing it we turned on the Sony 50" grand wega lcd tv and the cable guy went through a set-up menu. The end result was that the picture on all channels (even the previously full screen hdtv channels) was inside a smaller box on the screen. Noting filled the screen.

Cable guy went through set-up routine again and said the it "must be some wierd settings on your tv". After trying a few more times, he said, "I've seen this before, it's just the way it works, if you don't like it I'll remove it."

I had him remove it and go away. I think he was just stupid, it's inconceivable to me that Comcast would use a product that did not let the customer get the full use of their tv. Who the heck would sign up?

I have since called Comcast and rescheduled after the phone person assured me that it would work just fine. They are coming Dec. 20 (Weds) and i won't be home. Wife will. My instructions are that no one should touch the TV because the phone person said that all adjustments were on the dvr.

Any good advice? Thanks for reading this.Make sure that they install a SA8300 HD. You can tell by looking at the front if is a HD model. SA also has a regular SA8300 that is used with standard definition TVs. I couldn't tell from your post which one they installed.

The first post in this thread has a lot of good information about setting up and using the SA 8300 HD.

Make sure it's connected via Component (or HDMI) cables, not an RF or S-Video cable. Most likely he used Component the first time, probably even used the same connections you had for your previous unit.

Make sure he enables the formats you want; 480i/480p standard, 720p and/or 1080i. Sometimes the only option offered when entering the setup routine is Option A - SD. Sometimes this tells the 8300 that you have a 4:3 TV. Even though it may not be displayed, there is an Option B that lets you select HD, 16:9, desired formats, etc.

Of course, it always best if you learn enough to do this yourself in case you want to change things without paying for a service call. The first post has a lot of information, albeit in not particular order, and the User's Guide is available for download on SA's website if they don't give you one. Then too, we're always here to provide answers. :)

Question:

How would I set up the 8300 to pass only 720p and 1080i to my new Samsung LN-S4051D? I want to have the SD upconverted by the 8300.

I was also thinking maybe just have the 8300 send 720p only to the Sammie. Any thoughts on which setting might work the best to send to the Sammie? I have not had time to check the lag time when switching formats if i set the 8300 to "pass-thru" mode yet.

Question:

How would I set up the 8300 to pass only 720p and 1080i to my new Samsung LN-S4051D? I want to have the SD upconverted by the 8300.

I was also thinking maybe just have the 8300 send 720p only to the Sammie. Any thoughts on which setting might work the best to send to the Sammie? I have not had time to check the lag time when switching formats if i set the 8300 to "pass-thru" mode yet.
You should try having the 8300HD pass all resolutions and let your new display handle all the scaling/deinterlacing, and then try it with the 8300HD outputting only the two resolutions you mention. If the Sammie doing the work is better and there's only momentary hesitation, then that might be the way to go. If you see no appreciable difference, then go with the most stable setup.

One observation...

If I were a cable company (using SARA) I would require every "tech" to read this thread. I remember when my tech came to install by 8300HD, I had to show him the various options and how to allow "Pass-through" mode. He had been setting each box to 1080i since he thought "why would they want something less?"

Kudos to active posters in this thread who know their stuff.

Yeah the installer did that same thing for me. It think they just get trained (if at all) on one setup and don't care how to do anything else.

Make sure it's connected via Component (or HDMI) cables, not an RF or S-Video cable. Most likely he used Component the first time, probably even used the same connections you had for your previous unit.

Make sure he enables the formats you want; 480i/480p standard, 720p and/or 1080i. Sometimes the only option offered when entering the setup routine is Option A - SD. Sometimes this tells the 8300 that you have a 4:3 TV. Even though it may not be displayed, there is an Option B that lets you select HD, 16:9, desired formats, etc.

Of course, it always best if you learn enough to do this yourself in case you want to change things without paying for a service call. The first post has a lot of information, albeit in not particular order, and the User's Guide is available for download on SA's website if they don't give you one. Then too, we're always here to provide answers. :)


Thanks so much to everyone who answered. i guess that, even with this info, the cable guy will probably screw up something (especially believe that after reading this entire thread!). But at least I now feel empowered to fix anything the way it needs to be and won't have to deal with a Comcast tech or phone tech again. Heck, I could even run down to the local Comcast office and get a new dvr if need be, in fact, after reading all this I probably should have just done that and installed it myself.

You all are the best. Thanks. I'll let you know how it went tomorrow night after work!

I just searched the forum and while I noe others here have expressed similar problems, I haven't seen a solution.

My analog audio level is too low. I did the research, and experimented with the dynamic range settings (no solution there) and fixed/variable audio settings (knowing that in variable the remote controls the amp, so I used the buttons on the front of the unit, which go up to 30 and stop) but the volume level is much lower than I'd like it.

I just picked up a DVD recorder as my VHS ate its last tape. It sounds good on my analog cable in, but Line 1 from the 8300 is a relative whisper. I have to turn my amp way up to hear it well.

Has anyone else noticed this and hopefully found a fix? I usually listen to the 8300 digitally, and its levels there are excellent, but I'd like to archive the occasional program to DVD, Digital Rights permitting and I can't figure out how to get a good audio level to the DVD recorder (FWIW, the VHS also recorded audio too low, of course!).

chroma601,

I copy to DVD all the time - no audio problems (I use fixed). I would suspect that something may be wrong with your box. But first, are you running the audio outs somewhere else (via a "Y")? If so, try unplugging the other devices. It could be that something is loading down the 8300 audio output. I have a similar set-up (audio probably running 4 places) with no problems - but you ought to check before swapping units.

Thanks Dave, but there's no Y connectors. I'm just thinking that I have a working Betamax in the front closet with a volume control. Maybe I could run the sound through it to increase the volume....

Hate to switch it out as it's loaded with programs and works fine via digital.

I'm new to the SA8300HD so take this for what it's worth: I had the same low audio issue and I improved it by hitting the volume button on the front of the SA8300HD and holding it in until the maximum volume level was reached. Then you can use your TV volume from that point. What I did improved the low volume levels I was experiencing on the SD channels.

I just hooked up the 8300 using HDMI with my new Samsung LN-S4051. I can only pass 480p widescreen, 720p and 1080i to the TV. I cannot send 480i or 480p (4:3) to the TV from the 8300. It activates the HDCPcopy protection. Why?

I set up a separate S-Video feed to scale 480i so my wife and can watch SD streched.

I'm new to the SA8300HD so take this for what it's worth: I had the same low audio issue and I improved it by hitting the volume button on the front of the SA8300HD and holding it in until the maximum volume level was reached. Then you can use your TV volume from that point. What I did improved the low volume levels I was experiencing on the SD channels.

Under settings I have Range = Narrow and Vol Ctrl = Fixed. If I change Range to anything else, there is a big decrease in the volume.

I have my range as narrow and volume control variable. On the front of the unit is a volume up and down buttons. I have the volume up button set as high as it will go and that has resolved the low volume issue I was experiencing on the non-HD channels.

Under settings I have Range = Narrow and Vol Ctrl = Fixed. If I change Range to anything else, there is a big decrease in the volume.

Where in the settings is this? I can't seem to find these options. Thanks!

-- Rich

Hit the settings buttom twice on the remote and that will take you a menu with all of these choices and more !

I have a question, i have SA HD8300 and i dont have that pass thru option for my hdmi. I called TWCNYC and they gave me a lame excuse that they dont support HDMI...hehehe i said but your box has HDMI output. She was like: well we didnt give you that cable right? You bought it and you have to call the company that makes that cable and your tv....hehehe.

I dont want my cheap cable box to decode hdtv but my tv.

How can i pass thru my box (passport)......thanks.

You're in the wrong forum if you are using passport software. Try here
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=453804&highlight=passport

This is a great thread. I have to admit I haven't read every post, but is there somewhere I can get a listing / explanation of all of the "Advanced Settings"? The pdf "manual" doesn't even mention them. Thanks in advance.

Hit the settings buttom twice on the remote and that will take you a menu with all of these choices and more !

I know about that menu but what I should have made clearer is that I have no choices for audio other than an "Audio: Digital Out" menu item to choose between HDMI, Dolby Digital and Other. Maybe my cable provider (Astound/Wave Broadband) has limited what settings are availble or something.

-- Rich

I know about that menu but what I should have made clearer is that I have no choices for audio other than an "Audio: Digital Out" menu item to choose between HDMI, Dolby Digital and Other. Maybe my cable provider (Astound/Wave Broadband) has limited what settings are availble or something.

-- Rich


And you should also have in the menu located directly below the Audio: Digital Out; Audio: Range as well as Audio: Volume Control. You can highlight both of these and make additional selections. I have mine set for Audio: Range is narrow and Audio: Volume Control is variable.

Minnow101,
Why would you want the volume control to be "variable"? I would think having it at "fixed" with the box to the max would provide the highest volume level.

Minnow101,
Why would you want the volume control to be "variable"? I would think having it at "fixed" with the box to the max would provide the highest volume level.
That's my thinking as well. No funny business with the "sound stage" and max, fixed volume level.

And you should also have in the menu located directly below the Audio: Digital Out; Audio: Range as well as Audio: Volume Control. You can highlight both of these and make additional selections. I have mine set for Audio: Range is narrow and Audio: Volume Control is variable.
And what does the "fixed" or "variable" setting do exactly? As I asked above, is there a document or post that explains all of the Advanced Settings?

Thanks.

I think that in fixed mode:
The SA8300 remote controls the TV's volume.
In variable mode:
The SA8300 remote controls the STB box's output level.
But don't put any money on it.

I have the 8300 remote configured to control my tv volume, so it shouldn't matter which setting (fixed or variable) I choose. Sorry to pester and keep asking the same question, but is there a description of all the Advanced Settings somewhere?

Allan2,
If you go to the Scientific Atlanta website and go to products and manuals; you will find that the setup manual does discuss most of the advanced settings. You will have to sign up for their Explorers Club, but you will have access to all of the manuals and other support docs. What Kevin says is what it also says.

Thanks. Thought I did that yesterday, but perhaps I didn't sign up for The Explorer's club - I'll try again.

I know about that menu but what I should have made clearer is that I have no choices for audio other than an "Audio: Digital Out" menu item to choose between HDMI, Dolby Digital and Other. Maybe my cable provider (Astound/Wave Broadband) has limited what settings are availble or something.

-- RichOthers have had to call their cableco to get the added options enabled.

Thanks. Thought I did that yesterday, but perhaps I didn't sign up for The Explorer's club - I'll try again.Unless someone provided you with a direct link to the latest User's Guide, there is no way to get to it without registering for the Explorer Club and you'd certainly know if you did that or not. :)

Okay, I've looked through all the documentation at the Explorers Club and nowhere can I find even the faintest reference to Advanced Settings (or even Basic Settings, for that matter). Does anyone have a link to a document that DOES contain this info? Thank you.

Cablevision pushed out a new software version last week 1.88.23.a100 this new version has fixed the problem of HD channels showing is SD when you turn the box on.

Okay, I've looked through all the documentation at the Explorers Club and nowhere can I find even the faintest reference to Advanced Settings (or even Basic Settings, for that matter). Does anyone have a link to a document that DOES contain this info? Thank you.
Grab 'em all (http://www.peparsplace.com/SA8300HD_documentation.zip)!

Okay, I've looked through all the documentation at the Explorers Club and nowhere can I find even the faintest reference to Advanced Settings (or even Basic Settings, for that matter). Does anyone have a link to a document that DOES contain this info? Thank you.Try http://www.scientificatlanta.com/ExplorerClubGuides/getting_started/4003870.pdf This manual has some, but not all of the advanced settings.

Here is the link: http://www.scientificatlanta.com/explorerclub/index_new.asp
I don't think it will take you to the page, but go to user guides and Explorer HDTV setup wizard. Good luck

Here is the link: http://www.scientificatlanta.com/explorerclub/index_new.asp
I don't think it will take you to the page, but go to user guides and Explorer HDTV setup wizard. Good luck
You're making it way too difficult. I have downloaded, zipped and uploaded all three SA8300HD guides to my website. Click on the link in my post above. :)

You're making it way too difficult. I have downloaded, zipped and uploaded all three SA8300HD guides to my website. Click on the link in my post above. :)Yeh, like it is better to get the SA documentation from someone's (who does not even use the SARA software that documentation is based on) individual web site than the actual manufacturer's web site? :eek:

Well, the only documentation is in the latest SA8300HD User's Guide and you will probably have to glean some of it by reading everything. Like I said earlier, much of it is self-explanatory, but there is no concise definition-type page that explains each one. Since SA deals with cableco's and not end-users, I would imagine any documentation that exists is in the hands of the cableco where they decide which options to enable, etc. The only other source is to post your questions here and we'll give you the best answers we can. This is not rocket science, but obviously you have some questions that are not answered in any of the documentation you've read.

I appreciate the help and the links guys, but as I said I read all the manuals and unless I'm missing something they simply do not cover the Advanced Settings. Thanks again.

Others have had to call their cableco to get the added options enabled.

Thanks Dave, I'll look into that.

I appreciate the help and the links guys, but as I said I read all the manuals and unless I'm missing something they simply do not cover the Advanced Settings. Thanks again.Well, I just did a quick search of the latest User's Guide and found references to General Settings/Audio: Digital Out and Viewer: Favorites. For the record, perhaps I/we don't understand what you mean by "Advanced" settings, since there are only Quick Settings and General Settings, and we assume those are what you are talking about. :)

Has anyone had their 8300 "lock" on 480i? (yes I have the othe picture formats enabled) I have rebooted and reformatted and it still locks onto 480i intermittently. The only way to clear the "lock" is to reboot the system. I'm down to excahnging it with TWC \c:

Well, I just did a quick search of the latest User's Guide and found references to General Settings/Audio: Digital Out and Viewer: Favorites. For the record, perhaps I/we don't understand what you mean by "Advanced" settings, since there are only Quick Settings and General Settings, and we assume those are what you are talking about. :)
Hi Dave,

If you press "settings" twice you end up with a lengthy list of settings. Nowhere (that I can find) is there any reference to them. Thanks.

Yeh, like it is better to get the SA documentation from someone's (who does not even use the SARA software that documentation is based on) individual web site than the actual manufacturer's web site? :eek:
Good point. But after two different links and fussing about joining the Explorer Club, I thought I'd provide an - easy - alternative. Actually, one of the files is infected with a virus that replaces SARA with Passport. :D

I noticed on SA's website they had an IR extender that would allow you to leave a STB behind closed doors with the sensor outside and a flasher stuck on the front. It did not say it would specifically work on the 8300HD. It used the front USB port on another model. I want to leave my box in the other room and need an easy hookup. I don't want to have to use the sensor, emitter, hub, power supply, etc. I liked the idea of plugging into the USB port. It was clean. They also had another one that looked like it was just the sensor no flasher. That looked to be what I need, but don't know if it would work. Anybody tried these. The IR port in the back of the unit appears to not be activated. Thanks for any advice/help in advance.

RockTV,

The SA website shows lots of stuff that no cable company has ordered. As SA only sells to cable companies you are out of luck unless your cable company carries it.

If you press "settings" twice you end up with a lengthy list of settings. Nowhere (that I can find) is there any reference to them. Thanks.Well, I don't want to belabor the point, but I gave you references for 2 of them from the latest SA8300HD User's Guide. :) I also indicated though that you are right in that there is no complete list of the settings and what they mean. However, here's another suggestion that you might find somewhat useful. Some of us, me included, tend to forget some basic tips after awhile.

Anyway, after you press Settings twice to get to the General Settings list of options, scroll to any option and simply press Info for a description and other relevant information about that option and it's settings. Hopefully, this will give you some of what you are looking for. Maybe I should add this tip to the first post, huh? Oh wait, I just did. :)

My 8300HD (Sara) is connected to my Sony 60" XBR2 TV through HDMI. The PVR is set to always output 1080i and Picture Format is set to Fixed. By the way, I don't understand what Picture Format is used for...

My problem: Once in a while, I start getting a big blackout flicker (image and sound) every two minutes or so for a while, then it stops. I've tried rewinding a few seconds and playing back to see if the flicker was recorded, but then it doesn't repeat, so it's a playback glitch.

Is there an explanation for this and/or a way to correct this problem?

Thanks.

Pierre

By the way, I don't understand what Picture Format is used for...They are explained in the first post, if that's what you are looking for.

I just hooked up my 8300HD yesterday. So far I'm fairly pleased, but one of my bigger gripes is that the TV image while watching cable pixelates fairly badly during rapid action. Is this a trait of the 8300, or could it be a quality issue with the signal coming from Comcast? I know that it's not the TV (Samsung HL-S5687w) given that this doesn't happen at all when watching DVDs.

Is this something that I can improve upon, or is it just a reality of the setup?

Thanks.

I just hooked up my 8300HD yesterday. So far I'm fairly pleased, but one of my bigger gripes is that the TV image while watching cable pixelates fairly badly during rapid action. Is this a trait of the 8300, or could it be a quality issue with the signal coming from Comcast? I know that it's not the TV (Samsung HL-S5687w) given that this doesn't happen at all when watching DVDs.

Is this something that I can improve upon, or is it just a reality of the setup?

Thanks.It is probably poor signal strength. Check at the beginning of this thread for directions on how to check it. It probably needs Comcast to come out (hope you get a real employee - not a contractor who is only interested in logging the call and getting out of there!).

In the diagnostic menu, what setting am I looking for? There's a few places that seem like it would indicate signal strength, but I'm not sure which one I should be concerned with.

I was just curious as to which most people set their audio range to? This is from the first page:



Audio Range Settings. The Audio Range choices are for the Dolby Digital output signals and they refer to the digital "Dynamic Range".

A Wide Dynamic Range will render audio that will go from the faintest audio level of a whisper at an extremely low level to a thundering boom at ear-shattering levels. This gives great impact to action movies, but calls for a good audio setup to properly be able to hear normal dialog without blasting the speakers during loud scenes.

A Narrow Dynamic Range keeps the lower volumes at a higher level, while muting the higher level sounds to a lower level. This way whispered dialog is not that much quieter than an explosion and all sound levels are "Narrowed" to a certain level.

A Normal Dynamic Range basically splits the difference.

These are not specific numbers, but think of it something like this when setting the volume level to about 33% for the same scene. Using the Narrow Dynamic Range setting, a whisper might be 45db while an explosion is 85db, a "Narrow" range of audio levels. However, using the Wide Dynamic Range setting, the whisper might now be 15db while the explosion is 105db, a "Wider" range of audio levels.

As always, depening on your audio source and HT setup, you may or may not notice any difference in the available settings.

In the diagnostic menu, what setting am I looking for? There's a few places that seem like it would indicate signal strength, but I'm not sure which one I should be concerned with.Look near the end of the first post, there is a lot of info on S/N levels there.

I was just curious as to which most people set their audio range to?I use Wide unless we're watching something with very low dialog, then I temporarily change it to whatever works best at the time. It all depends on how your surround is setup and how you prefer your audio. It's best to experiment with all to see what you prefer, especially if you have a good 5.1 recording that you can use to test all 3 settings.

I was just curious as to which most people set their audio range to?I started with Narrow, but this caused very annoying fluctuations in the level. That write-up is sort of an ideal description of how the Narrow and Normal settings work -- there can be quite a bit of lag involved as the box adjusts the audio level in response to what's coming down the line. When I set it to Wide, there are no unusual fluctuations in the audio level, and my audio system can handle the dynamic range just fine.

I've had similar experiences and that's why I settled on Wide as my default. Again, much depends on your setup.

Thanks guys. I changed it to wide and will pay attention tonight when we watch the movie we rented. I noticed the other night while watching Miami Vice that parts of the movie fluctuated a lot and it was set to Narrow.

I started with Narrow, but this caused very annoying fluctuations in the level. That write-up is sort of an ideal description of how the Narrow and Normal settings work -- there can be quite a bit of lag involved as the box adjusts the audio level in response to what's coming down the line. When I set it to Wide, there are no unusual fluctuations in the audio level, and my audio system can handle the dynamic range just fine.
I *think* "wide" passes the signal, while the other settings engage compression/auto-leveling.

In the diagnostic menu, what setting am I looking for? There's a few places that seem like it would indicate signal strength, but I'm not sure which one I should be concerned with.

From the first post:
* CURRENT QAM refers to the currently tuned video channel:
Level: Should be -12 to +15 dBmV for QAM256
S/N: Should be 33 dB (or more) for QAM256 [This is more important than level]
Seconds: How long this channel has been tuned.
Corr Bytes: How many bytes were detected in error and corrected since first tuned
Uncor Blks: How many data blocks that failed parity check, but could not be corrected.
Errs Avg/Inst: Average and Instantaneous Bit (byte? block?) Error Rates.I hope that answers it for you. If any of the signals are orange (warning) or red (bad) call cable. I've heard some say that the acceptable level is -8dBmv to +8dBmv. Too much is bad too. If the S/N is way low, that could be external signal creeping into the cable (ingress) - call cable for all of these.

I *think* "wide" passes the signal, while the other settings engage compression/auto-leveling.I "think" that is probably correct. :)

Does anyone here know of a filter that can fix excessive "tilt" on the cable? I was having trouble with low signal levels and poor s/n ratio above approximately 600MHz so the cableco added a drop amp. Now the low frequencies are as high as +14 and orange with low s/n and some errors being reported while the high frequencies (above 700MHz) are near 0dBmV and clean.

This tilt is not caused by my wiring since it is the same at the drop coming into the house.

There must be a way to compensate for this.

From the first post:
I hope that answers it for you. If any of the signals are orange (warning) or red (bad) call cable. I've heard some say that the acceptable level is -8dBmv to +8dBmv. Too much is bad too. If the S/N is way low, that could be external signal creeping into the cable (ingress) - call cable for all of these.And don't forget to check splitters. If you have a splitter between the wall and your 8300, that is a source for problems. Remove the splitter and check levels. If they get better, you may need a better splitter (1Ghz or better). Either way, you will probably need to get the cableco to fix things, you should be able to have a least one splitter in the mix without having problems. The more info you have, the better job they can do to fix things and you'll know what's going on.

Does anyone here know of a filter that can fix excessive "tilt" on the cable? I was having trouble with low signal levels and poor s/n ratio above approximately 600MHz so the cableco added a drop amp. Now the low frequencies are as high as +14 and orange with low s/n and some errors being reported while the high frequencies (above 700MHz are near 0dBmV and clean.I don't know, but I'd be calling them back out to fix it. There is nothing you should have to do unless they can point to some specific problem with the in-house wiring or something.

Does anyone here know of a filter that can fix excessive "tilt" on the cable? I was having trouble with low signal levels and poor s/n ratio above approximately 600MHz so the cableco added a drop amp. Now the low frequencies are as high as +14 and orange with low s/n and some errors being reported while the high frequencies (above 700MHz) are near 0dBmV and clean.

This tilt is not caused by my wiring since it is the same at the drop coming into the house.

There must be a way to compensate for this.

They 'fixed' the problem the wrong way! If you have a S/N ratio problem on particular frequencies, there is something wrong with the cabling/distribution.

I had this same problem, and the first tech who came out added an amp. This is a bandaid - but I didn't know this at the time. A couple of years later the problem got worse, and the tech debugged the problem the right way. What he did was first looked at the S/N with my current setup. Then he ran a cable straight from my closet(where the splitters are) to the box - problem still there. Then straight from outside my house (wall) to the box - problem still there. Then straight from the curb to the box - problem went away. He then connected a cable from the curb to the outside wall - problem still gone. He dug up the old cable and found that they had nicked the cable when they installed my neighbors.

Anyway, that is the *right* way to debug this issue.

The 600MHz range is often used by local UHF stations, and bad cabling will result in 'ingress' of the OTA signal into your cable line. Find what QAM frequency has the worst S/N - then compare that frequency to your local OTA stations using this chart:
http://www.chem.hawaii.edu/uham/catvfreq.html

Hope this helps - I no longer need the AMP to get 35-36 S/N and my cable modem is much happier.

xnappo

Sometimes it's "noise" and not "signal." In that case, all the amps in the world won't help.

They 'fixed' the problem the wrong way! If you have a S/N ratio problem on particular frequencies, there is something wrong with the cabling/distribution.
xnappo
I know that is the correct way to look at the problem but I live in a place where niether I nor the cableco own the outside signal distribution network. The problem appears on the cable coming into my home so there is no way to correct it otherwise.

The point is that the drop amp corrected the problem on high frequencies but made things worse on low frequencies.

I know that is the correct way to look at the problem but I live in a place where niether I nor the cableco own the outside signal distribution network. The problem appears on the cable coming into my home so there is no way to correct it otherwise.

The point is that the drop amp corrected the problem on high frequencies but made things worse on low frequencies.
Then there is ingress at those lower frequencies and their broadband amp amplified the noise along with the signal. I know of no way to filter out noise; it needs to be prevented from getting in in the first place.

I have a new question for this thread, apologies if it was asked before but the word 'guide' is a somewhat ambiguous search term. There are several hundred channels in the linup on my 8300HD's channel guide, but I only have about 90 of them that I actually pay for and have service authorized on. Is there any way to remove the unauthorized channels from the guide, or is this an intentional ploy to get you to "see what you're missing" and buy more packages? WAF is dropping on the SA DVR, she misses Tivo something terrible. I've had to resort to connecting both the Tivo and the SA and will probably not drop the Tivo unless I can make this SA more user-friendly. Thanks!

Asked and answered many times, but the answer is still No, SARA doesn't have that feature. :)

There is no way to limit the IPG menu, but you can limit the channels you scan through by using the Favorites option. This allows you to use the # key to cycyle through only those channels you care about, but the IPG will still show all channels.

SARA is pretty basic and I don't know if it's because the cableco's that use it actually want you to "see" all the channels you are missing or if they just don't care about the feature set very much or if they're just to cheap too pay for more features, probably all 3. You didn't provide a location in your profile, but changes should be coming to almost all cableco's later this year, though there isn't much hard info on just what and when.

Well I over extended my SA8300HD yesterday with bowl games and the NHL game on INHD, on top of the 4 hours of HD I already had recorded on it, and ran out of drive space. I had it set to auto erase, but I use the default of until I erase. All of the one time recordings that were marked "until I erase" were fine, but it deleted 3 all episode recordings that were marked "save all episodes". Once those were gone the Fiesta Bowl stopped recording early when there was no more space and correctly indicated that is why it stopped.

So a word of warning, "save all episodes" might not protect you from auto erase like "until I erase" does. I'm using version 1.88.23.a100 on Cablevision.

So a word of warning, "save all episodes" might not protect you from auto erase like "until I erase" does.
Confusing, but true.

RemyM,

I'm sure you already know this, but aren't the "Save All Episodes" and "Until I Erase" separate options designed for different purposes?

I think the term "Save Time" is misleading. I don't believe it has anything to do with how "long" programs will be saved, especially when it comes to available space and "Auto Erase". It simply gives the option to record 1-5 or All episodes of a given program and, if you select something like 3, the oldest will be erased when the 4th starts recording, etc. I think this would be the case wheher or not Auto Erase is turned On.

However, if "Auto Erase" is turned On, the oldest recordings (not just oldest episodes of a given program) will be erased regardless of "Save Time" settings. I've never filled my HDD, but if all are tagged "Until I Erase", I would guess further recording just stops and displays the message you mentioned.

Confusing, but true.Is it the same in Passport?

RemyM,

I'm sure you already know this, but aren't the "Save All Episodes" and "Until I Erase" separate options designed for different purposes?

They do have different purposes and obviously react differently even though someone might assume that they react the same. Your description of how they work is correct. This was the first time that my drive filled up and I had encountered this. I just wanted to give everyone a heads up that "save all episodes" is not the same as "until I erase". If you want to protect a recording that was made under an all episode setup from auto erase, you need to go in after the fact and give it a save time. Of course you could also turn auto erase off. This might be something worth adding to the first post.

RemyM,

I'll add it and while I'm at it, I'm going to try to reorganize the tips. :)

Please excuse my ignorance if I am posting this question to the wrong thread.

The video from some sources does not play through the Aux inputs on my 8300HD. Some devices work perfectly (i.e. Game Cube and Video Camera) while others do not (i.e. Karaoke Machine (don't laugh) and another video game device.) The audio works but the video does not. The video does work if the device is connected directly to the monitor, but that is much too cumbersome to continually connect and disconnect.

The 8300 is connected to the monitor by way of the component video outputs.

Any thoughts?

Is it the same in Passport?
I think that "save all episodes" in SARA is the same as "record all episodes" in Passport (with the alternative being "First run only). That setting addresses something entirely different than what/when to erase.

Please excuse my ignorance if I am posting this question to the wrong thread.

The video from some sources does not play through the Aux inputs on my 8300HD. Some devices work perfectly (i.e. Game Cube and Video Camera) while others do not (i.e. Karaoke Machine (don't laugh) and another video game device.) The audio works but the video does not. The video does work if the device is connected directly to the monitor, but that is much too cumbersome to continually connect and disconnect.

The 8300 is connected to the monitor by way of the component video outputs.

Any thoughts?
I've had a similar problem. But I have never been able to get the front inputs to work because when I press the video select button on my remote, nothing happens. ????

RemyM,

I'll add it and while I'm at it, I'm going to try to reorganize the tips. :)

Hey, you got a bonus day off, might as well. :D
RIP: President Ford

Hey, you got a bonus day off, might as well. :D
RIP: President FordDitto on the RIP!

As for the bonus day off, today just happens to be my regular rotating day off this week, so I will get to select another. But, we pay for these bonus days by working 10-12 hours the next day, so tomorrow (and the rest of the week) will be a long. The bright side of that is the overtime to pay for Christmas. :)

I've had a similar problem. But I have never been able to get the front inputs to work because when I press the video select button on my remote, nothing happens. ????
"These connectors are reserved for future use or may not be available on all 8300HD models." - Connecting the Explorer® 8300HD™ Digital Video Recorder

I've had a similar problem. But I have never been able to get the front inputs to work because when I press the video select button on my remote, nothing happens. ????Not sure this means anything, but I believe the front inputs were enabled with 1.88.x.x and even that might be a cableco option. I can't imagine why one device would display and another wouldn't though, video is video in this case, isn't it?

Please excuse my ignorance if I am posting this question to the wrong thread.

The video from some sources does not play through the Aux inputs on my 8300HD. Some devices work perfectly (i.e. Game Cube and Video Camera) while others do not (i.e. Karaoke Machine (don't laugh) and another video game device.) The audio works but the video does not. The video does work if the device is connected directly to the monitor, but that is much too cumbersome to continually connect and disconnect.

The 8300 is connected to the monitor by way of the component video outputs.

Any thoughts?
My thought would be that the 8300 may be sensitive to non-standard synch pulses from some devices. Your monitor may be more robust. It sounds like any "standard" video device (VCR, DVD player, video camera) does work.

Question for ya'll...

I recently installed a DirecTV HD reciever at my farm in SC. I live in Raleigh, NC and recieve local HD channels via TWC (SA8300).

In Green Sea, SC the local HD channels are not on DirecTV and thus I recieve them OTA. (the ones I can get) I do get SD locals via DTV Here comes the cool part....

The reciever for DTV scans the OTA HD and Annalog channels and then incorporates them into the on screen user interface. This gives us the pure HD OTA AND convience of having it integrated into the UI.

WHY CANT TWC (SA8300 running Passport) do this???? It really is a great feature.

It's really pretty simple. The 8300 (or any other cable tuner for that matter) is not desiged to receive OTA signals. It's not that they couldn't be, it's just that it kind of defeats the purpose of cable and cableco's want you to receive all signals through them. Satellite tuners receive OTA signals because until recently that was the only way to get those channels (digital anyway) and they still don't broadcast all locals or all locals that can be received with a large enough antenna in areas that are close to more than one broadcast area, like half way between San Francisco and Sacremento.

I do have one question though. If you are using Passport, why didn't you post this question in the Passport thread? :)

My thought would be that the 8300 may be sensitive to non-standard synch pulses from some devices. Your monitor may be more robust. It sounds like any "standard" video device (VCR, DVD player, video camera) does work.


The video camera works and the Nintendo Game Cube works. Another game system, the Leapster TV Learning System does not work and the karaoke machine does not work. Audio, but not video from those devices. I guess it must have something to do with the type of signal output from the devices, but I don't know what.

RemyM (and others),

Please check out the new and hopefully improved first post.

I do have one question though. If you are using Passport, why didn't you post this question in the Passport thread? :)
He cross-posted here and the Master thread.

He cross-posted here and the Master thread.Oh well, not complaining, just curious. I subscribe to that thread too. I wonder why it didn't show up as a new post, hummm. :)

Oh well, not complaining, just curious. I subscribe to that thread too. I wonder why it didn't show up as a new post, hummm. :)
I got an email on it.

I got an email on it.Well, I've been updating and splitting my first post (now 2), and I'm sure I just missed it.

RemyM (and others),

Please check out the new and hopefully improved first post.

Great job Dave.

The manual is a little ambiguous on this, so hopefully someone here can clear this up for me.
It says that "Auto Erase" will erase the oldest programs that are not marked as "Save Until I Delete".
However it also says that if you have "Save Latest - All" set for a recording that the oldest episode will be deleted if "Auto Erase" is enabled.
Are they saying that even if you have "Save Until I Delete" set for a recording that "Auto Erase" will erase it anyway if Save Latest - All Episodes is set for that series?

Second part of this question is, is there a way to actually make the DVR ONLY delete old recordings as space is needed? IOW, if I set the DVR to delete the show after 14 days (the max) it will go away in 14 days regardless of space requirements, right? And if I set it for "Until I Delete" it will never go away, even if I need the space, correct? How can I tell it to NEVER automaticly delete anything UNLESS it needs the space?
Seems like the logical progression of this feature would be "Kill the recording in X days", "kill the recording ONLY if space is needed", and "never automaticly kill the recording". The middle option is the one I would use most often and I can't seem to find a way to accomplish it.

Running 1.88.17.a100

The manual is a little ambiguous on this, so hopefully someone here can clear this up for me.
It says that "Auto Erase" will erase the oldest programs that are not marked as "Save Until I Delete".
However it also says that if you have "Save Latest - All" set for a recording that the oldest episode will be deleted if "Auto Erase" is enabled.
Are they saying that even if you have "Save Until I Delete" set for a recording that "Auto Erase" will erase it anyway if Save Latest - All Episodes is set for that series?

Second part of this question is, is there a way to actually make the DVR ONLY delete old recordings as space is needed? IOW, if I set the DVR to delete the show after 14 days (the max) it will go away in 14 days regardless of space requirements, right? And if I set it for "Until I Delete" it will never go away, even if I need the space, correct? How can I tell it to NEVER automaticly delete anything UNLESS it needs the space?
Seems like the logical progression of this feature would be "Kill the recording in X days", "kill the recording ONLY if space is needed", and "never automaticly kill the recording". The middle option is the one I would use most often and I can't seem to find a way to accomplish it.

Running 1.88.17.a100

Deja vu all over again. :p
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9334700&&#post9334700
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9334978&&#post9334978
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=4682052&&#post4682052

Auto erase only deletes programs when space is needed.

"Save - All Episodes" is used for recording all instances of a given show, based on your preferences (i.e. First Run, This Timeslot, or Any Time), and has nothing to do with how long it will be stored on the DVR.

A single "One Episode" recording has various "Save Times" from 1 - 14 days or never on each individual recording.
A repeated "All Episodes" recording instead has "Save Latest" Episodes from 1 to 5 episodes or "All Episodes"

Setting "Auto Erase" to on will delete the oldest show not marked as "Saved until I erase", Which can be a global option for all recordings.

If you want to use the "Auto Erase" feature, but still want to save "some" old programs, then you have to go and mark the individual program's "Change Save Time". From there, you can either decide to "Save It" or "Put it up for deletion" by setting the saved days. Within that time, you can go back and manually change it back to saved or not.

Myself, and many others would absolutely HATE if it automatically deleted the oldest program regardless of settings. I have many older programs (some well over a year) that I somewhat have archived on the unit and use as reference material. "Must Have" recordings are set to never delete, and anything thats just something I would "Like" to see, but not mandatory are set to be deleted. I then go into my list periodically, and change the "Save Time" of some of the programs based on interest.

vegggas

Myself, and many others would absolutely HATE if it automatically deleted the oldest program regardless of settings. I have many older programs (some well over a year) that I somewhat have archived on the unit and use as reference material. "Must Have" recordings are set to never delete, and anything thats just something I would "Like" to see, but not mandatory are set to be deleted. I then go into my list periodically, and change the "Save Time" of some of the programs based on interest.

vegggas

I've got some recordings that are coming up on being two years old. :cool:

Auto erase only deletes programs when space is needed.
I don't believe mine is working this way (SARA 1.87.16.a109, TWC Honolulu). Until a couple of days ago, I had auto-erase turned on, default save time 14 days, less than 55% disk used (with QuickView 300Gb extender). I noticed that several recordings had disappeared. Going back several months, episodes from "record all episodes" seem still to be there, but single recordings older than two weeks are gone (except for some I had individually changed to save-until-I-erase). I didn't erase them, and I'm sure I've never come close to filling up the two hard drives.

Auto erase only deletes programs when space is needed.
I don't believe mine is working this way (SARA 1.87.16.a109, TWC Honolulu). Until a couple of days ago, I had auto-erase turned on, default save time 14 days, less than 55% disk used (with QuickView 300Gb extender). I noticed that several recordings had disappeared. Going back several months, episodes from "record all episodes" seem still to be there, but single recordings older than two weeks are gone (except for some I had individually changed to save-until-I-erase). I didn't erase them, and I'm sure I've never come close to filling up the two hard drives.I think your episodes were deleted after the save time expired. This is a different function than Auto erase and doesn't require Auto erase to be turned on for this function to happen.

Just installed second 8300HD DVR in the bedroom to go with new HD TV (other 8300 is in family room).

I NEVER realized how NOISY the hard drive spin up and down is, until listening to it all the time now.

Actually the spin down is the worse and a very definite click (assume head park).

The new 8300 has a Maxtor drive, where as the older one in the family room has a WD drive. But now that I'm listening I can hear the WD also.

ANYWAY, my question is WHY DOES THE 8300 cycle the drive up and down almost continuously with the power off and NO recording going on.

I can listen to it power up and spin for about 2 mins, then it powers down, again for about 2 minutes, then spins up again, seems continuously (until I finally fall asleep!). I haven't done an exhaustive study, but I have listened to it do it for at least 20 times in a row, and for multiple days.

WHAT IS THE DEAL?

It's Austin TWC, running SARA 188 verison.

WHAT IS THE DEAL?

It's Austin TWC, running SARA 188 verison.

I have noticed this constant spin up/spin down lately too - I don't know how long it has been going on for - but it can't be good for the drive.

xnappo

My 8300 has not been recording since the first...when I bring the guide up it says "Date Changed" and no data available...I can play previously recorded material but of course, none of my scheduled recordings work...I am using 1.88.22.1...any ideas?

TWC Houston are making a house call tomorrow if I can't get this working tonight...

Thanks for all responses...

WHAT IS THE DEAL?

It's Austin TWC, running SARA 188 verison.From what I understand, and vegggas will correct me if I'm wrong :) , the unit is always buffering at least one tuner. The solution that has been offered in the past is to tune to a non-buffered channel, like the music channels or something, before turning off for the night.

My 8300 has not been recording since the first...when I bring the guide up it says "Date Changed" and no data available...I can play previously recorded material but of course, none of my scheduled recordings work...I am using 1.88.22.1...any ideas?

TWC Houston are making a house call tomorrow if I can't get this working tonight...

Thanks for all responses...Sounds like you need to try a reboot or "hard" reboot (see first post) to force IPG data to download. As long as there is nothing in the IPG, nothing will record.

Sounds like you need to try a reboot or "hard" reboot (see first post) to force IPG data to download. As long as there is nothing in the IPG, nothing will record.


I tried a hard reboot but no joy...

My 8300 has not been recording since the first...when I bring the guide up it says "Date Changed" and no data available...I can play previously recorded material but of course, none of my scheduled recordings work...I am using 1.88.22.1...any ideas?

TWC Houston are making a house call tomorrow if I can't get this working tonight...

Thanks for all responses...
Sounds like the Forward Data Carrier (FDC) is out of range and not able to get the IPG data signal. Could also be related to the Return Data Carrier (RDC) not getting back to the headend either. Use the first post to check those levels.
Did you get a new surge protector (with a coax connection) for the holiday season? Did you make ANY changes to ANY wiring?

vegggas

From what I understand, and vegggas will correct me if I'm wrong :) , the unit is always buffering at least one tuner. The solution that has been offered in the past is to tune to a non-buffered channel, like the music channels or something, before turning off for the night.
Correct. You can check for bufferable/unbufferable channels by using the pause function. A channel that is not bufferable will not allow you to Pause FF, or REW, so the disk will not be writing or in use when both tuners are on that channel.
My trick is to set the power on channel(s) to those that do not buffer. A quick cycle of the power and both tuners are clear.
In General (sometimes called "advanced") settings, change:
Viewer: Power On - to a non-bufferable channel.
A secondary idea is to use the Timer: Wake-Up option and set that to a non-bufferable channel.
Using both of these commands forces both tuners to a non-bufferable channel by two seperate commands.
Alternately, you can use the PIP function to tune both tuners to non-bufferable channels.

vegggas

My experience has been that if you have too many comms. glitches in either up or down direction the box becomes a brick. Having playback but no guide wouldn't point me at a signal level problem disrupting comms.

IMHO
TerryB

Sounds like the Forward Data Carrier (FDC) is out of range and not able to get the IPG data signal. Could also be related to the Return Data Carrier (RDC) not getting back to the headend either. Use the first post to check those levels.
Did you get a new surge protector (with a coax connection) for the holiday season? Did you make ANY changes to ANY wiring?

vegggas

Problems galore over the last 2 months after contractors cut my drop by accident but all issues seemed to go away after an amp was added. All signals are now very good. No changes inside...

This morning, everything appears to be working...

Deja vu all over again. :p

Auto erase only deletes programs when space is needed.

Actually it only deletes programs when the space is needed AND the program is less than 15 days old, correct? If the show is more than 14 days old then you must have it set to "Save Until I delete", in which case Auto Erase is N/A. If You don't have "Save Until I Delete" set then the logic becomes "Delete when space is needed or program is N days old, which ever comes first", where max for N=14. Is that not correct?

We like to keep "filler" shows (old movies, etc) on the DVR. Stuff to watch when none of our regular shows are on (summer, Holidays, etc). With the current mechanism, there is no setting that will keep the "filler" stuff until the DVR needs the space, regardless of how old it is. I have to either keep the filler forever, presenting the risks of having the DVR fail to record when I want it to, or I have to have it expire in 14 days, presenting the possibility that I might come home from a few days out of town with nothing on the DVR. Not a huge deal, but a "Save Until Space Needed" option would be really nice in addition to "Until I delete" and "X Days".

My 8300 has not been recording since the first...when I bring the guide up it says "Date Changed" and no data available...I can play previously recorded material but of course, none of my scheduled recordings work...I am using 1.88.22.1...any ideas?

TWC Houston are making a house call tomorrow if I can't get this working tonight...

Thanks for all responses...

I had exactly the same problem. I have the 8300HD with TWC in Houston, so when I say exactly, that is, ahem, exactly what I mean.

If you haven't already tried, you probably will also get a "no data" error when you try to access Icontrol.

The solution is to call tech support and have them email the IC guys. They in turn will send a signal to the box which will download and re-install all of the software for the box. This takes about 30 minutes. This is not the same signal that the tech people send. This is a known problem in TWC Houston and is fixed by the installation of the new software. It seems to happen to HD boxes when the new year rolls around.

I too had a service call scheduled and was able to cancel it as the software download solved all of the problems. All the service call people can do is replace the box, which will fix the problem, but you would lose pre-recorded programs. Because I had some recordings I wanted to keep and because the box was manufactured on 10/2006 I wanted to keep it if I could.

I also suggest that you keep your favorites limited to 50 stations or less so as not to overfill your buffer. The buffer is limited to just 8K and it fills up pretty fast if you have more than 50 favorites.

I should point out that I did a few soft boots and unplugged it a few times, but I did not do a Hard Boot as only the program guide was affected (and Icontrol) and I didn't want to risk losing our stations over the holiday weekend. I suppose the hard reboot would have cleared the memory and downloaded the software as well, but, as I say, I didn't want to risk losing my stations. If it happens again I would probably try a hard reboot. However, the IC guys fixed the problem with no problem.

I should point out that my first thought was that since comcast had purchased TWC in Houston begining 1/1/2007 I thought that that was the problem as I had heard that they only run the program guide for three to four days. However, I was assured that this was not the problem as they do not intend to make any changes until the summer.

Try this fix--it worked for me. And let me know what happens. Please. I am very interested in this issue.

My SA8300HD has been connected to an AV theater forever. Yesterday sound ceased coming out of the receiver. When I go into the settings and change audio to "PCM" sound started coming out again - however, I have lost the Dolby Digital functionality.

Any insight to this problem?

I tried a hard reboot but no joy...


Oh, I hadn't seen that you had tried the hard reboot. Well that answers that question.

So, see my earlier post and have the IC guy re-download the entire software package--other than replacing the box this is the only solution.

I read a number of posts that said that people like the Harmony remotes with the SA8300HD.

Do any of them replicate the SA8300HD's A,B,C,Page up/down, Day up/down, guide, list, return (7 sec rew), live, and info buttons well?

My current universal has 4 learning buttons, which gets me some of that functionality, but not all.

For example, has anyone tried the cheap-ish Harmony 550? Does it handle this box well?

Thanks!
Eph

Pardon me if this has been covered before.

I want to transfer recorded tv programs from the HD8300 to a pc and eventually record it into a dvd. Is the firewire connection to use? What software is involved between the 8300 and pc?

I read a number of posts that said that people like the Harmony remotes with the SA8300HD.

Do any of them replicate the SA8300HD's A,B,C,Page up/down, Day up/down, guide, list, return (7 sec rew), live, and info buttons well?

My current universal has 4 learning buttons, which gets me some of that functionality, but not all.

For example, has anyone tried the cheap-ish Harmony 550? Does it handle this box well?

Thanks!
EphI can say YES for the Harmony 880. Not sure about the 550.

I read a number of posts that said that people like the Harmony remotes with the SA8300HD.

Do any of them replicate the SA8300HD's A,B,C,Page up/down, Day up/down, guide, list, return (7 sec rew), live, and info buttons well?

My current universal has 4 learning buttons, which gets me some of that functionality, but not all.

For example, has anyone tried the cheap-ish Harmony 550? Does it handle this box well?

Thanks!
Eph

I have an older Harmony 659, but my of the same issues. The SA's use of A,B,C buttons complicates programming a bit, since it increases the # of buttons you need to map to the Harmony. I, too, have 4 soft buttons, and have the 4 programmed to TV's Aspect Ratio, Live, PgUp, and PgDn. Then I map the A, B, C buttons to the next page of soft keys. It's a bit of a usage hassle, but I find I use A/B/C less often than PgUp/PgDn.

For 7 second rewind, I've mapped that to the * button on the numeric keypad left of the zero (because it's close to FFwd/Rew/Play on the 659). I've mapped the SA's "List" button to the Harmony's "Menu" button, and the rest (Guide, Exit, Info) have corresponding buttons on the Harmony.

I had exactly the same problem. I have the 8300HD with TWC in Houston, so when I say exactly, that is, ahem, exactly what I mean.

Try this fix--it worked for me. And let me know what happens. Please. I am very interested in this issue.

Thanks Jeffery,

I tried the hard reboot but I did not get the program guide back right away...but it was there by this morning...also, I did call in and the tech also did a reset...but the guide was not available right away...

I wonder how many people were impacted by this...uuh...feature????

I also have the SA8300HD cable box with TWC and a laptop with firewire port with Windows XP Home. Where do I find the drivers that allow me to capture from the cable box to the PC using firewire? And where is the capture program I would need to use? Thanks for any reponse. (I'm afraid that its much more difficult than I'm asking).

I also have the SA8300HD cable box with TWC and a laptop with firewire port with Windows XP Home. Where do I find the drivers that allow me to capture from the cable box to the PC using firewire? And where is the capture program I would need to use? Thanks for any reponse. (I'm afraid that its much more difficult than I'm asking).Jack, Sorry, I'm afraid it is much more difficult. Check out this thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=593271&page=1), which deals with this issue.

BTW, what make you assume that this is readily available and just a matter of drivers?

I also have the SA8300HD cable box with TWC and a laptop with firewire port with Windows XP Home. Where do I find the drivers that allow me to capture from the cable box to the PC using firewire? And where is the capture program I would need to use? Thanks for any reponse. (I'm afraid that its much more difficult than I'm asking).


http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=403695

"1. davehancock has exceeded their stored private messages quota and can not accept further messages until they clear some space."So? :rolleyes:

Correct. You can check for bufferable/unbufferable channels by using the pause function. A channel that is not bufferable will not allow you to Pause FF, or REW, so the disk will not be writing or in use when both tuners are on that channel.
My trick is to set the power on channel(s) to those that do not buffer. A quick cycle of the power and both tuners are clear.
In General (sometimes called "advanced") settings, change:
Viewer: Power On - to a non-bufferable channel.
A secondary idea is to use the Timer: Wake-Up option and set that to a non-bufferable channel.
Using both of these commands forces both tuners to a non-bufferable channel by two seperate commands.
Alternately, you can use the PIP function to tune both tuners to non-bufferable channels.

vegggas

Thanks veggas (and DoubleDAZ), and apologize if this has been covered in the beginning history of the 8300...

And I will try that tonight!

but why would they bother to buffer a signal when the box was off? and if they are, then why won't they let us see it? (ie. if we power on to "last channel")

second, even if they are (stupidly) buffering while powered off, why would they spin the drive up and down (instead of just keep it spinning). Otherwise they are putting millions of power cycles on the drive (which is another failure mechanism, along with just power on hours).

And lastly, has anyone tried to go in an quiet the drives (rubber mounts, etc., like we used to do on our Tivos)? Any hints?

Jack, Sorry, I'm afraid it is much more difficult. Check out this thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=593271&page=1), which deals with this issue.

BTW, what make you assume that this is readily available and just a matter of drivers?

I read thru the threads and the conclusion is that it can not be done for the moment. That is transfering recorded programs from the 8300 to a pc. There were many who tried per thread unsuccessfully.

Apparently transferring using VHS works. Isn't this so backwards?

I also thought that this is just a matter of picking the right driver(s). There is a plethora of software to rip a dvd movie and burn it into a dvd. This software are even free and it works! Sigh...

I read a number of posts that said that people like the Harmony remotes with the SA8300HD.

Do any of them replicate the SA8300HD's A,B,C,Page up/down, Day up/down, guide, list, return (7 sec rew), live, and info buttons well?

My current universal has 4 learning buttons, which gets me some of that functionality, but not all.

For example, has anyone tried the cheap-ish Harmony 550? Does it handle this box well?

Not sure about the H550; I have the H659 and it works great with the SA8300HD. Once you master the online set-up, it's set it and forget it: Guide, Info, Menu and Exit are all automatically mapped to hard buttons on the remote, and I have List, Live, Replay, A, B and C mapped to the six soft buttons. All the DVR functions -- Page Up/Down, PIP, etc. -- are also available via the soft buttons after pressing Device (another hard button) and choosing the DVR.

FWIW, I've had the H659 for two years and previously used it with the SA3200-series HD and non-HD boxes. Switching the setup from one box to another as my system changed was also painless.

I have an older Harmony 659, but my of the same issues. The SA's use of A,B,C buttons complicates programming a bit, since it increases the # of buttons you need to map to the Harmony. I, too, have 4 soft buttons, and have the 4 programmed to TV's Aspect Ratio, Live, PgUp, and PgDn. Then I map the A, B, C buttons to the next page of soft keys. It's a bit of a usage hassle, but I find I use A/B/C less often than PgUp/PgDn.

For 7 second rewind, I've mapped that to the * button on the numeric keypad left of the zero (because it's close to FFwd/Rew/Play on the 659). I've mapped the SA's "List" button to the Harmony's "Menu" button, and the rest (Guide, Exit, Info) have corresponding buttons on the Harmony.The 880 has 8 soft (well "semi-soft" if you consider the lame Harmony programming limitations) buttons so I have the "A","B", and "C" buttons on one side and "List", "Live", and "Replay (7 second replay)" buttons on the right. The other two soft buttons are involved with surround modes. This remote has hard Page Up & Page Down as well as Settings (Mnu), Guide & Exit buttons.

Apparently transferring using VHS works. Isn't this so backwards?You can also transfer to DVD - but it is still backwards as it is an analog (SD) transfer. BTW there is a "trick" that can b used to make an anamorphic DVD.[/Quote]
There is a plethora of software to rip a dvd movie and burn it into a dvd. This software are even free and it works! Sigh...Yeh, but these days none of it is legal (at least for copying DVDs that are copy protected).

cephraim,

I suggest you look at the Harmony remote layouts on their website and pay particular attention to the number of "hard" buttons for DVR control. I bought the 688 (before the 880 was available) because of the sheer number of buttons and the limited remapping needed. The only time I need to use the Device and Next buttons is when I'm testing something.

We watch a lot of TV, so my AVR pretty much stays set for TV audio. Therefore, day to day operation of the TV, DVR, AVR, and DVD player is done with the top level set of buttons and I only remapped 3-4 buttons after I set up my devices on the website. A lot depends on what you do on a regular basis, so choose a model that supports that. They will all pretty much be able to control everything, but some will require you to go to the second level of soft settings or use the Device button to control a sepecific device.

My SA8300HD has been connected to an AV theater forever. Yesterday sound ceased coming out of the receiver. When I go into the settings and change audio to "PCM" sound started coming out again - however, I have lost the Dolby Digital functionality.

Any insight to this problem?

This glitch occurred on my 8300HD as well right after an upgrade. I discovered that all I had to do was unplug my box and plug it back in to let it reboot up. Sound was back to normal afterwards.

Of course I found this all out after inspecting every cord, channel, and connection on my receiver and amplifier. Hit my head against the wall when I finally discovered it was as easy as removing the power from the box for a reset. :p

RussB,

??????

RussB,

??????Dave,

The links to the AZ HDTV Forums in the first 2 posts do not work from the AVS Forum. The domain name is converted to *******. I was trying to find a way to make them work. I deleted the post after testing the links.

Thanks Jeffery,

I tried the hard reboot but I did not get the program guide back right away...but it was there by this morning...also, I did call in and the tech also did a reset...but the guide was not available right away...

I wonder how many people were impacted by this...uuh...feature????


The tech people told me that it takes upwards of thirty minutes to download the program guide after a hard reboot. Rumor has it that it can take several hours.

TWC Houston said that the loss of the IPG is a known issue but they don't know why it happens. Of course they don't.

Anyway, if it ever happens again, I am going to do a hard reboot and wait overnight for the IPG to load.

The other rumor I have heard is that if you have too many favorites stored it can impact the IPG and prevent the new data from loading. Again, this is a rumor and as such should be taken with that in mind.

Sorry for another nubile and perhaps repetetive question, but is there any reason why my dvr doesn't keep epsiode data? For example I've recorded about 5 episodes of star trek the next generation, the data for them is correct in the guide but when I view them in recordings they have no episode data. Very frustrating, because I don't know which episode they are until I play them.
This is for all shows, regardless of channel.

Sorry for another nubile and perhaps repetetive question, but is there any reason why my dvr doesn't keep epsiode data? For example I've recorded about 5 episodes of star trek the next generation, the data for them is correct in the guide but when I view them in recordings they have no episode data. Very frustrating, because I don't know which episode they are until I play them.
This is for all shows, regardless of channel.
Yes, they have data. You need to either have selected the program in the LIST and then hit the INFO button or with program stopped hit INFO. If you hit INFO while watching it will give you channel information.

Yes, they have data. You need to either have selected the program in the LIST and then hit the INFO button or with program stopped hit INFO. If you hit INFO while watching it will give you channel information.

Channel information, but not episode information. Info tells me nothing.
I don't care when it taped it or what channel it taped it on, I want to know what episode it is, i.e. if it's "Encounter at Farpoint" or "Genesis" or "All Good Things..."
This is not listed. It just says "Star Trek The Next Generation". When I hit info again, it says something like "No data". Had it been a live TV program, hitting info twice gives the full episode name and description.

I'm spoiled by my old SD Tivo which kept track of everything. Is this not a feature of the SA8300HD?

Channel information, but not episode information. Info tells me nothing.
I don't care when it taped it or what channel it taped it on, I want to know what episode it is, i.e. if it's "Encounter at Farpoint" or "Genesis" or "All Good Things..."
This is not listed. It just says "Star Trek The Next Generation". When I hit info again, it says something like "No data". Had it been a live TV program, hitting info twice gives the full episode name and description.

I'm spoiled by my old SD Tivo which kept track of everything. Is this not a feature of the SA8300HD?Something tells me that you did not read my post and try what I said. I have the same version of SARA that you do and I just double checked again: it works as I said. If the info that you are looking for is there when watching live (hit INFO twice as you said) it is also there with the recording. But, as I said: you cannot get the info when actually playing the recording.

All,

Thanks for the feedback on the Harmony remotes.

The 688 looks perfect for me, but received some negative feedback on button size (some too small) and, in the case of the "Activity Buttons" at the top, they weren't very readable in the dark due to the paint/color on the buttons.

I found the Harmony 670 on the Logitech website. To me, it looks like it has all the same buttons as the 688, but resolves the two issues identified above that the 688 exhibits.

Has anyone tried the 670?

Also, what do you guys who have only 6 soft buttons do about the Day up/down buttons? You find a good way to map these in?

Thanks again,
Eph

Yes, they have data. You need to either have selected the program in the LIST and then hit the INFO button or with program stopped hit INFO. If you hit INFO while watching it will give you channel information.

Wow! Now that is great to know. I will try it when I get home. It has always frustrated me why the real info wasn't there. I guess I read over the tips too quickly. Thanks a bunch.

Wow! Now that is great to know. I will try it when I get home. It has always frustrated me why the real info wasn't there. I guess I read over the tips too quickly. Thanks a bunch.
Yes thanks, Dave. I'll try that with mine as well. My wife's been grousing about not being able to see the description of things already recorded.

Yes thanks, Dave. I'll try that with mine as well. My wife's been grousing about not being able to see the description of things already recorded.Don't know what will happen with your Passport though. ;)

Wow! Now that is great to know. I will try it when I get home. It has always frustrated me why the real info wasn't there. I guess I read over the tips too quickly. Thanks a bunch.?


Does UForgotten = MVPinBoynton ?

If so, you have me confused with 2 names.

Don't know what will happen with your Passport though. ;)
It worked. Pressing INFO once brings up the channel and the program length with the indicator showing the present position within the total time. Pressing INFO a second time brings up the same information that was available in the program guide - the year, title, brief description, actors, content, rating, etc. This is not alll displayed at one time; pressing PG UP and PG DN cycles through the "pages." Most I looked at had three such pages.

That's a handy feature! Thx again.

<that's the last I'll post on Passport on this thread. :) >

?


Does UForgotten = MVPinBoynton ?

If so, you have me confused with 2 names.

Sorry Dave, but I only have my name. I just appreciate the tip.

It worked.

<that's the last I'll post on Passport on this thread. :) >It's good to know that sometimes there are similar features on both. :)

Sorry Dave, but I only have my name. I just appreciate the tip. So the question is: Did it solve UForgotten's problem? :rolleyes:

Click here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7678517&&#post7678517) to go to a post that describes how to get the program information while you are watching a recorded program. Also, it describes some of the other items on that menu.

So the question is: Did it solve UForgotten's problem? :rolleyes:

Yes it did. WAF improved by 5 points.
Thanks for explaning it, sorry I wasn't comprehending it until I actually tried it when I got home from work.
And it probably helped quite a few other people as well. I'll keep posting minor annoyances and maybe they'll all be resolved! j/k. :)

Yes it did.
And it probably helped quite a few other people as well.Well I'm happy to help - and quite surprised that this is not more common knowledge (I've been using that for YEARS!
I'll keep posting minor annoyances and maybe they'll all be resolved! j/k. :)Well - I wouldn't bet on it. From a features standpoint TiVo is a tough act to follow (particularly with someone who has had one for a while). But we can try - just don't make us SARA guys be defensive. :cool:

Click here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7678517&&#post7678517) to go to a post that describes how to get the program information while you are watching a recorded program. Also, it describes some of the other items on that menu.
it is not necessary to STOP (and have to deal with those menu options); PAUSE works as well.

I just let the recording keep going, hit List, then Info. The info comes up and the recording is still visible in the preview window. :)

ia it possible to update my SARA to the latest 1.88.xx.x?

I have an earlier version

is it possible to update my SARA to the latest 1.88.xx.x?

I have an earlier version

Also, what do you guys who have only 6 soft buttons do about the Day up/down buttons? You find a good way to map these in?
I don't have a Day up/down button. What does it do? (My remote has "Time Warner" on it, but it's really an Atlas made by Universal Electronics.)

I would really like to find a cable-oriented remote with hard A/B/C keys and with learning. I programmed the remote that came with my receiver to have keys that worked like A/B/C, but they weren't labeled "A"/"B"/"C". My wife never used those keys at all -- too hard to remember.

Seems to me Harmony remotes are pretty pricey for what they do.

it is not necessary to STOP (and have to deal with those menu options); PAUSE works as well.SARA requires using the STOP button to get program information. If I use PAUSE and press the INFO key twice, I just get information about the DVR playback channel and no program information. PAUSE does show the status bar and indicates where I am in the playback of the program. Passport may be different than SARA in this regard.

SARA requires using the STOP button to get program information. If I use PAUSE and press the INFO key twice, I just get information about the DVR playback channel and no program information. PAUSE does show the status bar and indicates where I am in the playback of the program. Passport may be different than SARA in this regard.
I "assumed." :o

is it possible to update my SARA to the latest 1.88.xx.x?

I have an earlier versionThe cable company has to update SARA. It may be possible to get an early copy depending on your cable company and who you know. Good Luck

I don't have a Day up/down button. What does it do? (My remote has "Time Warner" on it, but it's really an Atlas made by Universal Electronics.)


The Day up/down (+/-, actually), skips to the same time on the next/previous day within the guide data. I use it a lot.

Eph

SARA requires using the STOP button to get program information. If I use PAUSE and press the INFO key twice, I just get information about the DVR playback channel and no program information. PAUSE does show the status bar and indicates where I am in the playback of the program. Passport may be different than SARA in this regard.With SARA you can press Pause, List, Info to get the data. Personally, I just hit List and Info while continuing to watch the program like I mentioned earlier. Just one of those quirks the SARA folks didn't think about and the Passport folks did. It's always easier to take someone else's work and improve on it. :)

Hi everyone, I am new to the thread. Some background: I own a series 2 TiVo and purchased a HDTV about 6 months ago, and the lack of HD recording ability was really annoying me. Since the release of the series 3 I have been on the verge of pulling the trigger and buying one, but I just was unable to justify spending that much cash. Despite the negative comments in the TiVo community forum I decided to check out the 8300 from my cable provider before putting down lots of cash.

I have only had it for a few days and I have to say thus far I am pleasantly surprised. I have it connected via component to my Samsung 5053 and the picture is probably somewhat better than the SA3250 I previously used. I have not yet tried HDMI to see if there is any improvement in pic quality (I have been skimming the >100 pages of this thread but have not seen any consensus of which is better; any thoughts?).

One of the things that I find annoying is that when I try to watch a show while it is being recorded I do not see an option for starting the recording at the beginning of the show. The DVR starts at real time and I have to rewind to the beginning. Even worse, when the DVR finishes recording the show it kicks me out from watching the show and I have to restart it and fastforward to where I left off. Is there any way to avoid or remediate this. Thank you in advance for any responses. :)

Hi everyone, I am new to the thread. Some background: I own a series 2 TiVo and purchased a HDTV about 6 months ago, and the lack of HD recording ability was really annoying me. Since the release of the series 3 I have been on the verge of pulling the trigger and buying one, but I just was unable to justify spending that much cash. Despite the negative comments in the TiVo community forum I decided to check out the 8300 from my cable provider before putting down lots of cash.

I have only had it for a few days and I have to say thus far I am pleasantly surprised. I have it connected via component to my Samsung 5053 and the picture is probably somewhat better than the SA3250 I previously used. I have not yet tried HDMI to see if there is any improvement in pic quality (I have been skimming the >100 pages of this thread but have not seen any consensus of which is better; any thoughts?).

One of the things that I find annoying is that when I try to watch a show while it is being recorded I do not see an option for starting the recording at the beginning of the show. The DVR starts at real time and I have to rewind to the beginning. Even worse, when the DVR finishes recording the show it kicks me out from watching the show and I have to restart it and fastforward to where I left off. Is there any way to avoid or remediate this. Thank you in advance for any responses. :)Glad to hear a TiVo person who is not so negative. :)

It would often help people respond correctly if you added your location to your profile. My guess is that you are in one of the last areas that have an old version of SARA software. Your complaint was pretty common a year ago, but since then newer versions (1.88.xx.xx) of SARA software have been rolled out by the cable companies that correct this problem and add 4th FF and RW speeds. Those few systems that are still on 1.87 or 1.85 will be updating shortly as there are fixes in the newest software that is needed for the revised daylight savings time (it starts a month earlier). Hang in there. I believe, that if you check the beginning of this thread you will find a "work around" procedure to your problem that may help till the software change comes.

Incidently, in most areas, you have no control when software revisions are downloaded to your 8300. It is "pushed" by the cable company when they are satisfied that the latest version is compatible with their system (cable systems are very complex and individual systems need to make sure that a given revision does not raise hell elsewhere in their system).

Hi everyone, I am new to the thread. Some background: I own a series 2 TiVo and purchased a HDTV about 6 months ago, and the lack of HD recording ability was really annoying me. Since the release of the series 3 I have been on the verge of pulling the trigger and buying one, but I just was unable to justify spending that much cash. Despite the negative comments in the TiVo community forum I decided to check out the 8300 from my cable provider before putting down lots of cash.

I have only had it for a few days and I have to say thus far I am pleasantly surprised. I have it connected via component to my Samsung 5053 and the picture is probably somewhat better than the SA3250 I previously used. I have not yet tried HDMI to see if there is any improvement in pic quality (I have been skimming the >100 pages of this thread but have not seen any consensus of which is better; any thoughts?).

One of the things that I find annoying is that when I try to watch a show while it is being recorded I do not see an option for starting the recording at the beginning of the show. The DVR starts at real time and I have to rewind to the beginning. Even worse, when the DVR finishes recording the show it kicks me out from watching the show and I have to restart it and fastforward to where I left off. Is there any way to avoid or remediate this. Thank you in advance for any responses. :)The following is a workaround if you don't have 1.88.x.x and it is found in the first post. (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=4682052&&#post4682052) This is one of the workarounds that Dave Hancock mentioned. There are additional tips in the second post. (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=4683407&&#post4683407)
Watch A Recording In Progress. UG-18 Stop the current recording and save it (usually during a commercial). Then start a "new" recording to finish the program by pressing the Record button and then press the Pause button. You can now view the first part from the beginning and then view the second part, either in progress or from the beginning after it finishes. While it is annoying to divide the recording into segments, at least you can easily skip to the beginning without rewinding, certainly a useful feature for time-shifting.
NOTE: See NEW FEATURES IN 1.88.x.x.

Glad to hear a TiVo person who is not so negative. :)

It would often help people respond correctly if you added your location to your profile. My guess is that you are in one of the last areas that have an old version of SARA software. Your complaint was pretty common a year ago, but since then newer versions (1.88.xx.xx) of SARA software have been rolled out by the cable companies that correct this problem and add 4th FF and RW speeds. Those few systems that are still on 1.87 or 1.85 will be updating shortly as there are fixes in the newest software that is needed for the revised daylight savings time (it starts a month earlier). Hang in there. I believe, that if you check the beginning of this thread you will find a "work around" procedure to your problem that may help till the software change comes.

Incidently, in most areas, you have no control when software revisions are downloaded to your 8300. It is "pushed" by the cable company when they are satisfied that the latest version is compatible with their system (cable systems are very complex and individual systems need to make sure that a given revision does not raise hell elsewhere in their system).

I am located in Worcester, MA and have Charter as a cable provider. Unfortunately I do have the 1.87. software on my 8300. Hopefully they will update to 1.88. soon. I am sure if I call the tech support line and ask when they plan on rolling it out they will have no idea what I am talking about. Thanks for the replies, I'll check out the first post more in-depth and try the workaround for now.

I am located in Worcester, MA and have Charter as a cable provider. Unfortunately I do have the 1.87. software on my 8300. Hopefully they will update to 1.88. soon. I am sure if I call the tech support line and ask when they plan on rolling it out they will have no idea what I am talking about. Thanks for the replies, I'll check out the first post more in-depth and try the workaround for now.

I live in Grafton and have had the 8300HD for two years - we've been on version 1.87.32.1 for a year and a half I think. I have an email from Charter tech support from 9/20/06 that they have no plans to update the DVR software. Hopefully they are forced to upgrade to 1.88 for the DST issue. I love the DVR and the 10 Meg internet but their tech/customer support is lousy. Verizon FIOS is coming here soon and I'll have to give them a hard look just because of Charter's customer service shortcomings.

You can take a look at their prices right now on their website. They may not be applicable to your specific area, but you can get an idea of costs. For example, in TX, HBO/MAX costs $25.99, the others are another $12.99, sports is another $7.99, HD DVR is $12.99, digital service is $42.99, etc., or about $90/mo and I don't know if you have to use their phone/internet service. It also costs (quite a bit if you ask me) if you ever want to upgrade, downgrade, add or remove service, etc. If it ever comes to Phoenix, it'll certainly be worth a look, the channel lineup is better than we have now with Cox, but it's not exactly cheap either. :)

Will SARA version 1.87.16.1 on a SA 8300HD PVR, allow the use of the Seagate ST3500601XS-RK 500GB eSATA External Hard Drive to be added successfully ?

Also what are DST issues referred to in earlier post? (DST=?)

Dan,

You really need to post that question in the SATA thread if you want some comments.

DST means Daylight Savings Time and past versions have had some difficulties dealing with the 1 hour change. I've not had a problem, but then I live in AZ and we don't change. :)

And it would be nice if you added a location to your profile and indicated your cableco/SARA version in your signature.

It also costs (quite a bit if you ask me) if you ever want to upgrade, downgrade, add or remove service, etc.
I've never had to pay for any of several upgrades, trouble visits, or changes of service in over 15 years with TWC in Hawaii. They do have standard charges for such things, but they've always waived them. But maybe that's just here.

Edit: I guess you're talking about Charter. Sorry for the irrelevant comment.

Dan,

You really need to post that question in the SATA thread if you want some comments.

DST means Daylight Savings Time and past versions have had some difficulties dealing with the 1 hour change. I've not had a problem, but then I live in AZ and we don't change. :)Dave,
The DST issue is that the change to daylight times have been fixed for years and many pieces of equipment have that fixed schedule built into their software. A year or so ago Congress (in their infinite wisdom) passed legislation making daylight savings time longer. I believe that it moved DST three weeks sooner and made it last 1 week later - as a result the formula changed and products that incorporated the old formula into the their software have to revise that software before the change - 2nd sunday in March. My understanding is that the 8300 (at least SARA versions) is one of those products - so there is a SARA update coming soon.

I've never had to pay for any of several upgrades, trouble visits, or changes of service in over 15 years with TWC in Hawaii. They do have standard charges for such things, but they've always waived them. But maybe that's just here.

Edit: I guess you're talking about Charter. Sorry for the irrelevant comment.Please read it again, I was talking about Verizon FIOS in response to the previous post stating FIOS was coming soon. :)

Dave,
The DST issue is that the change to daylight times have been fixed for years and many pieces of equipment have that fixed schedule built into their software. A year or so ago Congress (in their infinite wisdom) passed legislation making daylight savings time longer. I believe that it moved DST three weeks sooner and made it last 1 week later - as a result the formula changed and products that incorporated the old formula into the their software have to revise that software before the change - 2nd sunday in March. My understanding is that the 8300 (at least SARA versions) is one of those products - so there is a SARA update coming soon.Thanks Dave, you are correct, obviously, but I believe previous versions have had problems with the 1 hour change too, though it's been my position that is was really the IPG or the option used, like This Timeslot. :)

Thanks Dave, you are correct, obviously, but I believe previous versions have had problems with the 1 hour change too, though it's been my position that is was really the IPG or the option used, like This Timeslot. :)
I think it's some combination of IPG and internal SW - there is probably internal housekeeping with things like the recorded list and may also be issues synchronizing what happens with the internal clock at the transition.

I'd be curious what your contacts there have to say about this (though they may not care about DST they probably are aware of the issue).

The plus for use users is that it sort of pushes out a new version (though that doesn't always go so well :eek: ).

Please enlighten me. I thought the time was pushed, (nightly?) by the cableco to make sure all stays in sync, so the time should be right no matter what, shouldn't it? The IPG also has air times, so those should be right with the overnight update, shouldn't they?

Please enlighten me. I thought the time was pushed, (nightly?) by the cableco to make sure all stays in sync, so the time should be right no matter what, shouldn't it? The IPG also has air times, so those should be right with the overnight update, shouldn't they?Dave, I don't have any inside information, so I really don't have much additional info. I've had my cable system tell me, and I've seen others in these forums report that their cable systems comment that they (cable) have to push a new version of SW due to this DST issue. I also know from previous product design experience that devices with internal clocks (even if periodically synchronized) need to keep DST changes in mind (accounted for in software).

Anyway, I'd sure like to hear something from the "inside" regarding this. :)

Anyway, I'd sure like to hear something from the "inside" regarding this. :)Asked. I'll let you know what I hear, but it might take awhile. My contact got promoted and he's in the middle of a reorganization of his new (and old) divisions. That should tell you he's not a bit-player and should know the answer or be able to find out. I'm still surprised they haven't pushed 1.88.22.1 to everyone here. We still push on an individual basis and even that is only 1.88.19.1 (except for me and a few others). :)

I'm still surprised they haven't pushed 1.88.22.1 to everyone here.

Whats the difference between 1.88.19.1 and 1.88.22.1? Is there a revision listing somewhere?

Nothing that "I" can tell, though I'm sure there are some minor fixes in it for something :) , and I have not seen any release notes for 1.88.22.1.

Hey,

I'm new to TWC in Houston after dropping DTV that I had for almost 10 years. I never thought I would like cable better than satellite but I do. Without getting technical, the HD channels just look better to me (and my wife!) Do they do something differently? The channel line-up is better too.

I have the 8300HD and 8300 SD DVR's and a couple of questions:

1) Is it possible to "pass-through" to my Pioneer 5070 plasma?
2) How do I see the software revision?
3) Will I lose my recordings with a hard boot? Anything else I need to know about a hard boot?
4) Most importantly: how do I stop the stupid "press any key to watch TV" message? Can't it just stay on all the time like my DTV HD20?

Any other info would be appreciated.

Steve

SRHookEm,

1) Sure, run the setup wizard. (see the first two posts of this thread for instructions)
2) See the first two posts of this thread.
3) No. (see the first two posts of this thread)
4) See the first two posts of this thread for a work around.

See a pattern? If you still have questions after reading the first two posts post them and someone will try to help.

Regarding #4:

My options for timer are different than listed in the post. When I go to timer:wakeup, I see a channel and a time. This doesn't seem to be the same.

For timer: sleep and timer:wakeup, I can choose enable and disable. I don't know how to set these to keep the "press any key" message from showing up each day.

Can you walk me through this?

Regarding #4:

My options for timer are different than listed in the post. When I go to timer:wakeup, I see a channel and a time. This doesn't seem to be the same.

For timer: sleep and timer:wakeup, I can choose enable and disable. I don't know how to set these to keep the "press any key" message from showing up each day.

Can you walk me through this?

It don't think it will stop on from appearing but it should turn the box back on after going into the sleep mode. I don't understand what the big issue is with always needing the box on though.

Hey,

I'm new to TWC in Houston after dropping DTV that I had for almost 10 years. I never thought I would like cable better than satellite but I do. Without getting technical, the HD channels just look better to me (and my wife!) Do they do something differently? The channel line-up is better too.

I have the 8300HD and 8300 SD DVR's and a couple of questions:

1) Is it possible to "pass-through" to my Pioneer 5070 plasma?
2) How do I see the software revision?
3) Will I lose my recordings with a hard boot? Anything else I need to know about a hard boot?
4) Most importantly: how do I stop the stupid "press any key to watch TV" message? Can't it just stay on all the time like my DTV HD20?

Any other info would be appreciated.

SteveAccording to the Houston Chronicle, Comcast took ownership and control of the Houston market from Time Warner Cable on Tuesday, January 2, 2007. Comcast said that there wouldn't be any immediate changes. Comcast is still using the Time Warner Cable name in commercials and newspaper advertising. Maybe, that was part of the deal. The first change, putting the Comcast letterhead on bills, isn't expected until spring.

You should consider exchanging the 8300 SD DVR for a 8300 HD DVR. The 8300 HD DVR will work with standard definition TVs. It provides twice the disk space and there is no additional charge in Houston. It might work using the default options, but if it doesn't there is a standard definition mode that you can select with the setup wizard. The standard definition mode allows the # key to stretch and zoom. When I did the exchange, the TWC representative told me that it wouldn't work, but it does.

Houston is using SARA 1.88.22.1.