,snip>
The reason the 8300HDC can do pay-per view etc has nothing to do with the cable card - the card is just to handle the decryption of received data. The box and the head-end have a pre-defined proprietary upstream communications protocol which allows the box to request data.

The Series 3 Tivo obviously does not have access to this proprietary scheme.
<snip>
xnappoThe cable card is only a decryptor for specific SA or MOTO standards.
Point of contention:
The "pre-defined proprietary upstream communications protocol" is due to either SA or Moto decryption standards built onto the STB. By removing the decryptor from the STB and placing it on a cablecard, it opens the STB to be non specific (i.e Tivo works in SA and MOTO headends). The upstream hardware is the same standard across the platforms and has been around for well over a decade.
Think Mac vs Dell vs PC vs Clone. They all use similar monitor and hard drive structures, with minor adaptations to work across platforms as long as the HARDWARE is compatible acoss them. SA can be adapted to work on MOTO, etc as long as the hardware structure for upstream communication exists.
Tivo never intended to use an upstream channel for two way communication, thus the hardware was never included. They could have easily done a software push to enable SA or MOTO communication standards back to the headend if they built the hardware in the first place.

vegggas

The cable card is only a decryptor for specific SA or MOTO standards.
Point of contention:
The "pre-defined proprietary upstream communications protocol" is due to either SA or Moto decryption standards built onto the STB. By removing the decryptor from the STB and placing it on a cablecard, it opens the STB to be non specific (i.e Tivo works in SA and MOTO headends). The upstream hardware is the same standard across the platforms and has been around for well over a decade.
Think Mac vs Dell vs PC vs Clone. They all use similar monitor and hard drive structures, with minor adaptations to work across platforms as long as the HARDWARE is compatible acoss them. SA can be adapted to work on MOTO, etc as long as the hardware structure for upstream communication exists.
Tivo never intended to use an upstream channel for two way communication, thus the hardware was never included. They could have easily done a software push to enable SA or MOTO communication standards back to the headend if they built the hardware in the first place.

vegggas

No disagreement here - they probably could have gone that route. I used the word proprietary only because it is not an industry standard.

xnappo

I think what they told you is essentially correct, except maybe for switching out the boxes. While the box could be faulty, it's more likely not the problem. There is an interesting post (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=10741895&&#post10741895) in the SATA thread that might be worth checking. Seems the cable itself might be "short" and causing connection problems. Except that post related to SATA/eSATA connectors. I don't think there have been short connector issues with HDMI.

I'd like to caution people about HDMI connectors. Lately, I've seen some complaints (in a Sony thread, I think) about "loose" connectors and poor connections because of that. Yes, they must not have consulted any mechanical engineers when they designed them and they are very vulnerable to coming loose because of cable weight, etc. (another reason to stay away from high priced HDMI cables). I particularly caution about using DVI>HDMI adapters on the HDMI end, those really add to the problem with their extra weight and leverage.

RE: triplejs's issue: To be technically correct, it is an HDCP issue that is causing the problem. And the primary problem is that the organization that created those standards failed to develop a comprehensive test suite. Further, it seems that "off brands" that are largely developed in China seem to have more problems than more traditional brands (though there have been problems with the likes of Sony too).

I'd like to caution people about HDMI connectors.


Do you think I would be better off using a componet cable instead of the HDMI?

Do you think I would be better off using a componet cable instead of the HDMI?

You would avoid the "loose connection" issue and the handshaking problems that people have reported. On my system, however, I get a much sharper picture using HDMI connections.

Do you think I would be better off using a componet cable instead of the HDMI?Better off, who knows? HDMI can produce a "better" image. However, even that is subjective. Take a TV with contrast and brightness turned up and many folks will "see" a better picture. That is why so many HDTVs are in "torch" mode in retail stores. I'm not saying HDMI doesn't give a better picture, I'm just saying it's subjective and a "different" picture doesn't always mean better.

As pbarach said you will probably avoid your issues, but it seems to me that if HDMI/HDCP were the cause, you'd think you'd see the problem EVERY time you changed from SD/HD. You should have gotten a Component cable with your 8300, so it won't cost anything to test it.

And, Dave, you are right, my bad, got totally mixed up and was in a hurry out the door.

How can you tell if it recorded fine if you've never been able to watch it successfully?
It almost sounds like you've just got a bad cable signal and you're experiencing dropouts (during the record).

When it does play, the PQ and audio are fine. I can rewind and the the picture freezes at different spots. Sometimes the scene is fine, rewind and replay and then it freezes. Ergo, if it plays fine sometimes but not others, I am assuming the recording process was not at fault. I don't think it is the cable signal because the other cable box is functioning without problems.

If live is okay, I think you may have a bad hard drive. Look at the bottom of the box to see the build date. TWC is my area doesn't test the drives very well on returned boxes.

xnappo

My build date is 1/12/2005. Is there a history of problem units?

TIA

My build date is 1/12/2005. Is there a history of problem units?

TIA

No, that just means it isn't new and had a previous owner. Maybe one who had problems with recordings breaking up :O

xnappo

No, that just means it isn't new and had a previous owner. Maybe one who had problems with recordings breaking up :O

xnappoYou've got nothing to lose by trying a "hard" reboot and some of the others items mentioned in the first post. If none of that helps, then I would suggest swapping for another unit and making sure the cableco knows the one you have has problems with playback.

And unless it was refurbished, it has a very tired, 2-1/2 year old hard drive....

I currently have a problem where by cable box seems to be out of sync with my KDS-50A2000. Sometimes when I change from one resolution (720p to1080i or 480i to 720p) channel, the box just displays static on the screen. I'm still getting sound, but no picture. Switching to a different input on my TV and then back to the cable input seems to fix it, but it will happen again while switching channels.

I have the cable box and the TV hooked up via HDMI. Ths sound actually runs to the receiver, not through the HDMI. Everything worked really well until WideOpenWest upgraded their boxes like 4 months ago.

Any ideas?

I currently have a problem where by cable box seems to be out of sync with my KDS-50A2000. Sometimes when I change from one resolution (720p to1080i or 480i to 720p) channel, the box just displays static on the screen. I'm still getting sound, but no picture. Switching to a different input on my TV and then back to the cable input seems to fix it, but it will happen again while switching channels.

I have the cable box and the TV hooked up via HDMI. Ths sound actually runs to the receiver, not through the HDMI. Everything worked really well until WideOpenWest upgraded their boxes like 4 months ago.

Any ideas?

Welcome to the world of the 8300HD. This has been happening to me since a software update on the 8300 a few months ago. The problem is the software in the 8300, complain to your cable company. They won't care because they know you have no choice, but it can't hurt.

I have a SONY combo VCR/DVD which is hooked directly to my SONY TV via plain red-green-blue component cables.

I connect from the 8300 to the TV via HDMI.

I can play DVDs, but when I try to play a tape, I get a DVI Alert and it says:

"Your HDTV does not support HDCP. Please disconnect the HDMI connector and use the YPrPb connection to continue watching TV."

I'm 99% sure this is a new development. I had the TV removed for service a few months ago and maybe connected something wrong, but I don't think so.

Soooo, is this common/expected?

If I want to use the VCR, do I have to throw away my HDMI cables????

thnx

I have a SONY combo VCR/DVD which is hooked directly to my SONY TV via plain red-green-blue component cables.

I connect from the 8300 to the TV via HDMI.

I can play DVDs, but when I try to play a tape, I get a DVI Alert and it says:

"Your HDTV does not support HDCP. Please disconnect the HDMI connector and use the YPrPb connection to continue watching TV."

I'm 99% sure this is a new development. I had the TV removed for service a few months ago and maybe connected something wrong, but I don't think so.

Soooo, is this common/expected?

If I want to use the VCR, do I have to throw away my HDMI cables????

thnx

I have a Sony combo DVD VCR and don't have this issue. I am using HDMI from the box through my home theater to the TV. For the combo I have two connections to the TV. Component (RGB) for DVD and Composite (Yellow video, Red, White audio) for the VCR.

If I want to use the VCR, do I have to throw away my HDMI cables????Are the Component and HDMI cables connected to the same TV input? Were they before you had the TV serviced?

First thing I'd do is disconnect the HDMI cable and see if a tape will then play. If it does, then I'd reconnect the HDMI to a different TV input and check again.

...and if you still have the problem, please provide the model number of your Sony combo player in your next post.

Are the Component and HDMI cables connected to the same TV input? Were they before you had the TV serviced?

First thing I'd do is disconnect the HDMI cable and see if a tape will then play. If it does, then I'd reconnect the HDMI to a different TV input and check again.

1) Both before TV servicing and after, I have both Component and HDMI cables connected to the TV

2) Disconnecting the HDMI doesn't make the "DVI Alert" error go away & I still can't view a VCR tape, but the DVD works fine....

3) NOTE: I'm using Pr/Pb/Y cables for 2 connections (details below) instead of the standard Y/R/W cables which are all too short. (I've been careful to make sure I've matched the colors between the inputs and outputs)

COULD THIS BE AN ISSUE?

If not:

I have 4 components: TV, 8300, DVD Recorder, & DVD/VCR Combo

SONY HDTV connected to SA8300 via HDMI

SA8300 connected using Output 2 to DVD Recorder via Pr/Pb/Y cables (for "copy to VCR")

DVD Recorder to TV via S-Video cables

DVD/VCR Combo (SONY SLV-D550P) connected to TV via "Line Out Video/Audio L/R" using Pr/Pb/Y cables

Everything works fine except for VCR tapes!!??

I haven't seen any postings on conflicts in a while (at least not in my search) - has this gotten any better with a later version? I am in Morgantown, WV, and my Comcast doesn't allow me to flag first runs. So, when I record all episodes of Rescue Me, The 4400, and Army Wives, I get tons of conflicts due to the fact that it records each episode the 800 times each one is on each week, without even looking for duplicates.

Then, when I try to resolve a conflict by deleting an episode, it deletes ALL the episodes.

Is this how it is supposed to work? Is there software coming that will fix this? Is this true everywhere? I know this is not TiVo, but how do you all handle this?

I haven't seen any postings on conflicts in a while (at least not in my search) - has this gotten any better with a later version? I am in Morgantown, WV, and my Comcast doesn't allow me to flag first runs. So, when I record all episodes of Rescue Me, The 4400, and Army Wives, I get tons of conflicts due to the fact that it records each episode the 800 times each one is on each week, without even looking for duplicates.

Then, when I try to resolve a conflict by deleting an episode, it deletes ALL the episodes.

Is this how it is supposed to work? Is there software coming that will fix this? Is this true everywhere? I know this is not TiVo, but how do you all handle this?

When you press record, you should get the option of recording all episodes. If you choose all episodes, you should then get another screen with options of recording all episodes at any time on this channel AND record all episodes on this channel AT THIS TIME. Choose the later and it should not record other episodes during the week.

I haven't seen any postings on conflicts in a while (at least not in my search) - has this gotten any better with a later version? I am in Morgantown, WV, and my Comcast doesn't allow me to flag first runs. So, when I record all episodes of Rescue Me, The 4400, and Army Wives, I get tons of conflicts due to the fact that it records each episode the 800 times each one is on each week, without even looking for duplicates.

Then, when I try to resolve a conflict by deleting an episode, it deletes ALL the episodes.

Is this how it is supposed to work? Is there software coming that will fix this? Is this true everywhere? I know this is not TiVo, but how do you all handle this?It has gotten better with SARA 1.89.x.x. The "On this channel this day in this time slot" recording option was added which eliminates a lot of the conflicts. This is near the end of the first post. You should try to get your cable company to update the program guide with the first run flag. This is a tremendous help in eliminating conflicts. You can use the "On this channel any day in this time slot" recording option which helps some. The other option is to record either single episodes or set up manual recordings that repeat weekly.

When you press record, you should get the option of recording all episodes. If you choose all episodes, you should then get another screen with options of recording all episodes at any time on this channel AND record all episodes on this channel AT THIS TIME. Choose the later and it should not record other episodes during the week.

Yes, but doesn't that kind of defeat the purpose of the season pass? Three examples:

1. Army Wives is doing a marathon - we need to catch up!
2. Rescue me starts and ends at different times each week
3. We missed an episode or two of Rescue Me and want to get back episodes

Yes, but doesn't that kind of defeat the purpose of the season pass? Three examples:

1. Army Wives is doing a marathon - we need to catch up!
2. Rescue me starts and ends at different times each week
3. We missed an episode or two of Rescue Me and want to get back episodesEven if you had the First Run flag that wouldn't help with what you are trying to do, the episodes you are trying to get are reruns. You'll have to tell us what options you currently have before we can suggest something specific.

As far as a Season Pass goes, it in and of itself, isn't a panacea for what you are trying to do. You also need Tivo-type priority conflict resolution and that just isn't available on the 8300 yet. But even then there is no guarantee you'd get the episodes you want unless you made them top priority and then you'd still get more than you want and maybe miss other stuff.

You are further hindered by your cableco being way behind the times with regard to recording options and IPG data. SARA 1.89 does have some conflict resolution now, but nothing that is going to help your situation.

You should be able to identify the needed eps of Army Wives/Rescue Me and record those individually. After that, you should be able to record the same time each week and get the new eps, unless they alter times. In that case, your only option, without the First Run flag, is to set a Manual Recording to cover both early/late starts/ends. If they generally start around 9:00 and end around 10:00, set the times to 8:55 and 10:05 to get all. It would be a lot easier to just make yourself a note to record it each week and schedule it manually until your cableco catches up on recording options.

I would hypothesize you have the DVD/VCR Player connected ONLY via it's YPbPr
(Component Video) port to your HDTV's YPbPr port.
This is the PREFERRED connection for the DVD, but the VCR signal is not output
on this port (per note in Op Instr pg 34).

To see VCR, you would need to ALSO connect DVD/VCR Player's Y/R/W
(or S-Video/R/W) output to an UNUSED port on your HDTV.

Should revise as follows:

1. SA8300HD to TV via HDMI (TV port 6).

2. SA8300HD (Y/R/W) to DVD Recorder via "Line In 1 Video/Audio" port.

3. DVD Recorder to TV via S-Video/L/R cables (TV Port 2 or 3).

4. DVD/VCR Combo (SONY SLV-D550P) to TV:

a. "Line Out Video/Audio L/R" output to Y/R/W (or S-Video) input (TV Port 2 or 3).
[Interlaced scan--VCR and DVD.]

b. "Component Video Out" to YPbPr (C.V.) input (TV Port 4 or 5),
plus "Line Out Audio L/R" to L/R input on same TV port.
[Progressive scan--DVD Only.]

============================
You can "upgrade" to Component Video cables (R/G/B) instead of Y/R/W cables,
although the reverse substitution is to be avoided.

============================
The VCR viewing problem "should" be totally separate from the "DVI Alert" problem.

Some SA8300HD's may not support simultaneous HDMI and C.V. connection.
Try disconnecting C.V. and see if the "DVI Alert" goes away.

If you can't get this error to go away, you are not alone in having trouble
getting SA8300HD's HDMI port to work reliably....

At least you have an open Component Video input on your HDTV.....

Even if you had the First Run flag that wouldn't help with what you are trying to do, the episodes you are trying to get are reruns. You'll have to tell us what options you currently have before we can suggest something specific.

As far as a Season Pass goes, it in and of itself, isn't a panacea for what you are trying to do. You also need Tivo-type priority conflict resolution and that just isn't available on the 8300 yet. But even then there is no guarantee you'd get the episodes you want unless you made them top priority and then you'd still get more than you want and maybe miss other stuff.

You are further hindered by your cableco being way behind the times with regard to recording options and IPG data. SARA 1.89 does have some conflict resolution now, but nothing that is going to help your situation.

You should be able to identify the needed eps of Army Wives/Rescue Me and record those individually. After that, you should be able to record the same time each week and get the new eps, unless they alter times. In that case, your only option, without the First Run flag, is to set a Manual Recording to cover both early/late starts/ends. If they generally start around 9:00 and end around 10:00, set the times to 8:55 and 10:05 to get all. It would be a lot easier to just make yourself a note to record it each week and schedule it manually until your cableco catches up on recording options.

Thanks for the input and help. There is no way I'm paying $10 a month extra per receiver to make a note to record things myself - that's what I'm paying Comcast for. We switched back to DirecTV yesterday and we are going to send these boxes back.

Thanks for the input and help. There is no way I'm paying $10 a month extra per receiver to make a note to record things myself - that's what I'm paying Comcast for. We switched back to DirecTV yesterday and we are going to send these boxes back.That is certainly your perogative, just be sure to tell Comcast exactly why you are returning them. If enough folks do that, or complain, maybe they'll get a clue. Oh, and be sure to let us know how your D* HD DVR handles your situation without recording mulitple episodes, or having conflicts, and dealing with the altered start/end times.

I would hypothesize you have the DVD/VCR Player connected ONLY via it's YPbPr
(Component Video) port to your HDTV's YPbPr port.
This is the PREFERRED connection for the DVD, but the VCR signal is not output
on this port (per note in Op Instr pg 34).

To see VCR, you would need to ALSO connect DVD/VCR Player's Y/R/W
(or S-Video/R/W) output to an UNUSED port on your HDTV.

Should revise as follows:

1. SA8300HD to TV via HDMI (TV port 6).

2. SA8300HD (Y/R/W) to DVD Recorder via "Line In 1 Video/Audio" port.

3. DVD Recorder to TV via S-Video/L/R cables (TV Port 2 or 3).

4. DVD/VCR Combo (SONY SLV-D550P) to TV:

a. "Line Out Video/Audio L/R" output to Y/R/W (or S-Video) input (TV Port 2 or 3).
[Interlaced scan--VCR and DVD.]

b. "Component Video Out" to YPbPr (C.V.) input (TV Port 4 or 5),
plus "Line Out Audio L/R" to L/R input on same TV port.
[Progressive scan--DVD Only.]

============================
You can "upgrade" to Component Video cables (R/G/B) instead of Y/R/W cables,
although the reverse substitution is to be avoided.

============================
The VCR viewing problem "should" be totally separate from the "DVI Alert" problem.

Some SA8300HD's may not support simultaneous HDMI and C.V. connection.
Try disconnecting C.V. and see if the "DVI Alert" goes away.

If you can't get this error to go away, you are not alone in having trouble
getting SA8300HD's HDMI port to work reliably....

At least you have an open Component Video input on your HDTV.....

You wrote:

"I would hypothesize you have the DVD/VCR Player connected ONLY via it's YPbPr
(Component Video) port to your HDTV's YPbPr port.

To see VCR, you would need to ALSO connect DVD/VCR Player's Y/R/W
(or S-Video/R/W) output to an UNUSED port on your HDTV."

My DVD/VCR has 2 output sections...one for DVD only and one for DVD/VCR. I'm actually connecting from this "combined" section's Y/R/W output (using YPbPr cables which you indicate shouldn't be a problem) to an unused Y/R/W input on my TV.

Sooo, I think I'm pretty much set up the way you've recommended, except I'm using YPbPr cables as a convenience for the Y/R/W connections.

Question 1:

You said:

"4. DVD/VCR Combo (SONY SLV-D550P) to TV:

a. "Line Out Video/Audio L/R" output to Y/R/W (or S-Video) input (TV Port 2 or 3).
[Interlaced scan--VCR and DVD.]"

Is this "Interlaced scan" a specific setting that I have to make on the TV???

Question 2:

Since disconnecting the HDMI didn't make the DVI Alert go away, should I try a hard reboot of the SA8300 and then disconnect the HDMI to see if this message goes away?

thnx

You wrote:
My DVD/VCR has 2 output sections...one for DVD only and one for DVD/VCR. I'm actually connecting from this "combined" section's Y/R/W output (using YPbPr cables which you indicate shouldn't be a problem) to an unused Y/R/W input on my TV.

Sooo, I think I'm pretty much set up the way you've recommended, except I'm using YPbPr cables as a convenience for the Y/R/W connections.

Question 1:
You said:
"4. DVD/VCR Combo (SONY SLV-D550P) to TV:
a. "Line Out Video/Audio L/R" output to Y/R/W (or S-Video) input (TV Port 2 or 3).
[Interlaced scan--VCR and DVD.]"

Is this "Interlaced scan" a specific setting that I have to make on the TV???

Question 2:
Since disconnecting the HDMI didn't make the DVI Alert go away, should I try a hard reboot of the SA8300 and then disconnect the HDMI to see if this message goes away?

thnx
Errata: After reading QuickStartGuide tiny type, Port #2 above should be Port #1.

I was hoping you would double check your DVD_VCR Player cables and find that
you ACTUALLY connected just the (DVD Only) Component Video.....Oh well.....

Getting a standard video signal to work should be a simple plug and watch....

Does the VCR play a store-bought tape?
If it's only a problem with SA8300HD recordings, maybe it's a copy protect "feature".

I would methodically check to make sure the Player is even outputting
video (or S-Video) signal when playing a tape....try with another TV.

Although unlikely, I would also double check HDTV's Port #1 and #3 inputs, just to make
sure they're working by connecting to "Yellow" (or S-Video) output on SA8300HD.
These are always active, no "setup" required.

=================================
Answer 1:
The "Yellow" (Composite Video) and S-Video outputs are ALWAYS Interlaced
(e.g. Analog NTSC), so no setup entries are required.
Note: The "Progressive" selection in DVD_VCR Player Manual (pg69) only applies
to the higher quality Component Video output (480i or 480p, DVD only).

Input Port #1 and #3 on the HDTV will automatically accept either "Yellow"
(Composite Video) or slightly higher quality S-Video input...don't connect both on same port.

Answer 2:
ANYTIME SA8300HD acts up, it's a good idea to either hold power button
down till it reboots....or if that doesn't work, remove power for awhile.
(Typical problems: "missing" free HDD space, "missing" or stereo-only Optical/Coax audio output).

That is certainly your perogative, just be sure to tell Comcast exactly why you are returning them. If enough folks do that, or complain, maybe they'll get a clue. Oh, and be sure to let us know how your D* HD DVR handles your situation without recording mulitple episodes, or having conflicts, and dealing with the altered start/end times.

I plan to let them know.

My HR20 will work very well, if it works anything like the R15's I already have - I used D* for 7 years before I moved. While their new units are not as good as the old TiVo OS I had, I routinely handled conflicts quite easily.

About the SONY DVD/VCR issue,

If the DVD/VCR Composite (Y,R,W) output is connected to the Composite input (Y,R,W), are you on that input when you get the HDCP message from playing a VCR tape?

v/r,
C-F

I plan to let them know.

My HR20 will work very well, if it works anything like the R15's I already have - I used D* for 7 years before I moved. While their new units are not as good as the old TiVo OS I had, I routinely handled conflicts quite easily.Mind if I ask why you switched to begin with? I'm always curious as to why people used to Tivo, etc., switch to cable, especially with all the info here on AVS discussing current cable DVR limitations.

About the SONY DVD/VCR issue,

If the DVD/VCR Composite (Y,R,W) output is connected to the Composite input (Y,R,W), are you on that input when you get the HDCP message from playing a VCR tape?

v/r,
C-F

Yes, I am on this input when I get that DVI Alert message- for VCR tape only....DVD plays fine. (This input is used for both DVD & VCR)

Gonna try an SA8300 reboot.....

Errata: After reading QuickStartGuide tiny type, Port #2 above should be Port #1.

Getting a standard video signal to work should be a simple plug and watch....

Does the VCR play a store-bought tape?
If it's only a problem with SA8300HD recordings, maybe it's a copy protect "feature".



OK...I figured it out!

Reboot of the 8300 didn't help, so I started to seriously watch the tape and although the DVI Alert message was there, it was kinda jumpy.

Turns out it was the last tape I used 6 months ago when I tried to copy a program that was playing on my TV and all I got after the first 60 seconds or so was that stupid message!

It was a replay of my prior failed experiment!!!!

Sooooo, I can watch tapes, but if I watch a tape filled with that stupid message, that's all that shows!!

DUH.................

Thanks to everyone who tried to help!!!!!!!!

Welcome to the world of the 8300HD. This has been happening to me since a software update on the 8300 a few months ago. The problem is the software in the 8300, complain to your cable company. They won't care because they know you have no choice, but it can't hurt.

Yep, I've complained about 4 times now over the course of the last 3 months and their solution each time has to bring a new box. The last time, I told them that I didn't want one, since that obviously doesn't fix the issue.

The technician said he would take a note back to his people and see if they could figure out something. He said to not be too optimistic and that it would probably take at least a month to know anything.

Yep, I've complained about 4 times now over the course of the last 3 months and their solution each time has to bring a new box. The last time, I told them that I didn't want one, since that obviously doesn't fix the issue.

The technician said he would take a note back to his people and see if they could figure out something. He said to not be too optimistic and that it would probably take at least a month to know anything.Not to pick on you, but these kind of posts don't help anyone when they don't contain a better location (Ohio is a large state and I'm sure it is served by more than one cableco), the software version your cableco uses, and the cableco itself. Since many of us are not having the problems you are, oftentimes they can be traced to a specific software version or cableco. You are not the first person somewhere in Ohio to have such problems.

I am still having problems with my TV/Cable Box. I have the SA 8300HD and a vizio vp50 plasma tv. They are connected via HDMI cable. I have called both companies (vizio/TWC Houston) and they both blame the other. When I switch from an analogue station to a digital hd channel, the screen flashes off and on with the picture. If I change stations it will go away. This only happens a few times a day, (not every time) but it is annoying. I am going to try switching out boxs again today, simply because that is easier than taking a 120 lb tv back to exchange. I am going to try a new HDMI cable as well. I do feel like it has something to do with the cable box because if I turn it off and then back on it goes away for a little while. If I turn off/on the TV, it doesn't seem to make a difference.

Any suggestions, or has anyone else seen this.

Thanks in advance.

I am still having problems with my TV/Cable Box. I have the SA 8300HD and a vizio vp50 plasma tv. They are connected via HDMI cable. I have called both companies (vizio/TWC Houston) and they both blame the other. When I switch from an analogue station to a digital hd channel, the screen flashes off and on with the picture. If I change stations it will go away. This only happens a few times a day, (not every time) but it is annoying. I am going to try switching out boxs again today, simply because that is easier than taking a 120 lb tv back to exchange. I am going to try a new HDMI cable as well. I do feel like it has something to do with the cable box because if I turn it off and then back on it goes away for a little while. If I turn off/on the TV, it doesn't seem to make a difference.

Any suggestions, or has anyone else seen this.

Thanks in advance.

I seriously doubt changing the box or TV will help. Your best hope is looking for a firmware update for your TV.

HDMI/HDCP sucks and there appears to be next to no compliance testing standard performed by companies in order to be able to say they are compatible.

Your best option is probably just using component. It doesn't really make that much difference quality wise on most TVs.

xnappo

I seriously doubt changing the box or TV will help. Your best hope is looking for a firmware update for your TV.

HDMI/HDCP sucks and there appears to be next to no compliance testing standard performed by companies in order to be able to say they are compatible.

Your best option is probably just using component. It doesn't really make that much difference quality wise on most TVs.

xnappo

I have a friend with the same TV/Cable with no problems. This is why I think there is a problem with 1 or the other.

I am in the process of moving so I am having my cable transferred to the new address. So I took the box over since my TV was already moved. I wondered if I could watch my recorded stuff while I want for the cable hookup. Looks like I can't since it tells me the box isn't authorized. I can't get past the screen which sucks. I guess the Cable co sends out a signal and talks with thebox before I can browse it. Now I am using the same box and everything. When they activate the service at the new address will the box want to reformat my external drive? Or will everything be kept intact on the drive?

When they activate the service at the new address will the box want to reformat my external drive? Or will everything be kept intact on the drive?You should still have all your stuff. The same thing would happen to you if you were still at your original address and just yanked the cable out of the back...after a while, the box would give you that same message.

Once you plugged the cable back in and it talked to the head end, it'd get happy and let you watch your shows again. Same thing should happen once the cableco has your account configured for your new address.

I have a friend with the same TV/Cable with no problems. This is why I think there is a problem with 1 or the other.

Does his TV have the same firmware version?

xnappo

Once you plugged the cable back in and it talked to the head end, it'd get happy and let you watch your shows again. Same thing should happen once the cableco has your account configured for your new address.

My cableco is far from perfect, so who knows. They shutoff the service at the "from" address 3 days before they were supposed to (which was fine, i was already mostly moved out). When I called to ask them about it, they said it might have been some kind of glitch and they had never seen that before. I do not have high hopes for keeping my recordings.

Yep, I've complained about 4 times now over the course of the last 3 months and their solution each time has to bring a new box. The last time, I told them that I didn't want one, since that obviously doesn't fix the issue.

The technician said he would take a note back to his people and see if they could figure out something. He said to not be too optimistic and that it would probably take at least a month to know anything.

Yes, the cable co. first (and sometimes only) response to any problem is to get a new box. That rarely fixes anything and can cause new problem since you'll get a "new" one that has a real hardware problem, as I found out the hard way.

As the other poster mentioned, it's good to post the software version number, the cable company, and the location, it makes it easier to identify certain problems since they do tend to vary between versions.

Does his TV have the same firmware version?

xnappo

Yes. Same firmware, everything.

I tried a new box with a new cable today. I also removed a splitter to make sure the signal was not too low. So far I haven't seen the flashing, but it has been very intermittent. I will contine to switch channels and see if this fixed the problem.

Does his TV have the same firmware version?

xnappo


Here are some other questions that may help if answered:
1. Does this happen only on HDMI or also on component?
2. Is anything else connected to the TV?
3. Is it the same HD channels that display the flashing?
4. What are the resolutions of the channels that have the problem?
5. What is the native resolution of your TV?

This note is for:
ewto16
triplejs
Character_zero
Jay_Davis
SomeData
(who all posted in the last day) and all the others who are guilty of this:

As A MINIMUM Please include your LOCATION (BOTH CITY and STATE) in Your PROFILE!

Further, it would be considerate if you would also include the version of software you are using in your signature. You can do all this from your User Control Panel (User CP).

This way the rest of us will be easily able to more fully understand your situation or your comment as much of this stuff is particular to a particular cable system (TW in New York City is not the same as TW in Rochester, NY - not by a LONG shot).

Thanks

I hope I don't get flamed for not having any info in my profile. Anyway, just have a question about my 8300HD DVR with SARA (not sure of FW). As of yesterday, trying to access my DVR gives me a "Unrecoverable Write Error" that pops up in a box. Also I am not able to record anything. Pressing the record button does nothing, nor does trying to set it up through the guide. Plus none of the live TV control buttons work. Oh yea, I am in Minneapolis, MN with Comcast.

Could I remedy this by doing a hard reboot mentioned on the first page, or perhaps something similar. I don't want to drive over to the office again. This is already my second box. Thanks in advance.

It won't hurt to try a hard reboot, but there is no guarantee it will fix the problem. You can also try reformatting. If none of that fixes it, you will have to exchange it.

I hope I don't get flamed for not having any info in my profile.I know you're probably just being funny, but I don't think anyone will flame you as long as you provide the info, it's just easier to put it in the profile/sig is all.

As for the hard reboot, I would try all the things mentioned in the first post, though you may end up making the trip to the cableco anyway. :)

Well, After replacing the box and doing a hard reboot, I am having less flashing of the screen. TW Houston/ Comcast finally told me that they thought it was a problem with their signal, and that I may need to have a signal boost. I have a signal amplifier that a previous tech left here in case I have problems, so I will hook it up and see if it makes a difference.

Well, After replacing the box and doing a hard reboot, I am having less flashing of the screen. TW Houston/ Comcast finally told me that they thought it was a problem with their signal, and that I may need to have a signal boost. I have a signal amplifier that a previous tech left here in case I have problems, so I will hook it up and see if it makes a difference.Have you looked at your signal levels yourself? What are they? Instructions are in first post.

davehancock: I know listing the equipment and versions one is talking about is useful, but don't tell people to put that in their signature. Putting your DVR model and software version in a signature that gets used in other forums creates nothing but garbage in those other forums and makes searching very difficult. As a matter of fact the signature page says specifically NOT to include equipment in a signature, probably for those reasons.

davehancock: I know listing the equipment and versions one is talking about is useful, but don't tell people to put that in their signature. Putting your DVR model and software version in a signature that gets used in other forums creates nothing but garbage in those other forums and makes searching very difficult. As a matter of fact the signature page says specifically NOT to include equipment in a signature, probably for those reasons.I was simply repeating what others have suggested (and I have found helpful). What I really don't understand are folks, like you, that won't even put your location in your profile. When we are discussing cable & cable companies, that often helps.

But then, if you don't want help, or don't want people to more fully understand the context of what you are saying - then continue to keep the rest of us in the dark.

davehancock: I know listing the equipment and versions one is talking about is useful, but don't tell people to put that in their signature. Putting your DVR model and software version in a signature that gets used in other forums creates nothing but garbage in those other forums and makes searching very difficult. As a matter of fact the signature page says specifically NOT to include equipment in a signature, probably for those reasons.
I can agree with the equipment part of your argument (and I don't believe that's ever been requested, though I could be wrong), but just what is the problem with adding a City/St (or Country) to a Profile? Is your location such a secret that you make the rest of us ask followup questions just to get the basic info needed to offer accurate advice?

Also, how does changing my Rank from "Senior Member" (whatever that is) to "Cox- SARA 1.89" or adding it/other data to my Signature make searching any more difficult or garbage up the other threads I participate in?

I, for one, tend to ignore posts asking for help from anyone with more than 50 posts who don't provide the needed data in the post, Profile, or Signature. I figure that if you've been around for 50 posts, you already know the info is useful, so if you are too lazy/stubborn to provide it, I don't need to take my time to help.

Plus, this subject has been discussed a number of times and Mods were asked to chime in if there were any problems.

Here are some other questions that may help if answered:
1. Does this happen only on HDMI or also on component?
2. Is anything else connected to the TV?
3. Is it the same HD channels that display the flashing?
4. What are the resolutions of the channels that have the problem?
5. What is the native resolution of your TV?

1. It happens on HDMI, not on component.
2. I have a DVD on Component, a VCR on composit.
3. Different HD channels do it, but it is more common on my local HD channels. NBC, ABC, Etc.
4. The one that it happens most on is NBC, channel 312 on comcast houston, which varries resolution, but mainly in 1080i.
5. The TV is a native 720p (Vizio VP50hdtv)

I checked the signal strength using the diagonostic page, and it show the signal strength at -6db. for qam256 on channel 312, which on the first page says it is within range.

Or maybe this is just a gripe. Is there a way to get the box to consistently save the location on a recording that you have partially watched? That is, if you watch part of a program change channels and then turn the box off, I think you ALWAYS lose the location and then must search for the place you left off. On the Moxie box I had, it would save multiple partially viewed recordings. Of course that box never turned off.

Any suggestions or is this just a "bug" that could use fixing?

1.89.20.1

Or maybe this is just a gripe. Is there a way to get the box to consistently save the location on a recording that you have partially watched? That is, if you watch part of a program change channels and then turn the box off, I think you ALWAYS lose the location and then must search for the place you left off. On the Moxie box I had, it would save multiple partially viewed recordings. Of course that box never turned off.

Any suggestions or is this just a "bug" that could use fixing?

1.89.20.1It maintains only the position of the last recording that was being watched. To watch from that position, switch to the playback channel and press play.

It maintains only the position of the last recording that was being watched. To watch from that position, switch to the playback channel and press play.That is correct. If you watch part of a recording, it maintains it's place as long as you don't start watching another recording. Simply tune back to your Playback Channel (800 here on Cox) and press Play. This is not a bookmark, it's more like just a Pause. SARA has NO bookmarks, unlike Moxi, Passport, and Tivo.

1. It happens on HDMI, not on component.
2. I have a DVD on Component, a VCR on composit.
3. Different HD channels do it, but it is more common on my local HD channels. NBC, ABC, Etc.
4. The one that it happens most on is NBC, channel 312 on comcast houston, which varries resolution, but mainly in 1080i.
5. The TV is a native 720p (Vizio VP50hdtv)

I checked the signal strength using the diagonostic page, and it show the signal strength at -6db. for qam256 on channel 312, which on the first page says it is within range.

All right, this is just for a sanity test:
1. HDMI only - This is not a level issue.
2. Analog inputs used - this is not a multiple HDMI issue.
3. More common on local services - Local services often carry additional data for PSIP. Perhaps this is tripping something up?
4. 312 varies resolution. Are you possibly hitting the time when the resolutions change? This might also cause issues with mutliplexing equipment in the headend.
5. TV resolution is 720 but signal is 1080i. Possible downconversion difficulty when changing from an analog to a digital 1080i.

Do you know if your HD Wizard is set to pass 720p? You may want to change the Wizard to see if the issue is reduced.

Do you know if your HD Wizard is set to pass 720p? You may want to change the Wizard to see if the issue is reduced.

I went through the advance setup wizard so that all formats would pass through, and let the TV make the adjustments. What should I change to see if it will reduce?

That is correct. If you watch part of a recording, it maintains it's place as long as you don't start watching another recording. Simply tune back to your Playback Channel (800 here on Cox) and press Play. This is not a bookmark, it's more like just a Pause. SARA has NO bookmarks, unlike Moxi, Passport, and Tivo.

Thanks. I am guessing that even if you don't watch another recording, if you later deploy both tuners, say a recording and watching, the "pause" on the partially watched recording will be lost.

Thanks. I am guessing that even if you don't watch another recording, if you later deploy both tuners, say a recording and watching, the "pause" on the partially watched recording will be lost.I don't think that is true because you can record two programs while you playback a recording.

Thanks. I am guessing that even if you don't watch another recording, if you later deploy both tuners, say a recording and watching, the "pause" on the partially watched recording will be lost.I don't think it's true either. I believe I've switched to one of 2 live recordings (by changing channels, not selecting from the List) and my place was still there when I tuned back to the Playback Channel. The 8300 can do 3 things at the same time, record 2 and play back 1. Once you select something else for the List though, all bets are off. :)

Well this morning at 3:00 am my box rebooted and downloaded SARA version 1.89.20.1 on Cablevision's Norwalk, CT system. I was on a 1.88 version before.

That is certainly your perogative, just be sure to tell Comcast exactly why you are returning them. If enough folks do that, or complain, maybe they'll get a clue. Oh, and be sure to let us know how your D* HD DVR handles your situation without recording mulitple episodes, or having conflicts, and dealing with the altered start/end times.


Based on the call I just had, I highly doubt a clue will be gotten soon - the "loyalty rep" argued with me about all of the UI failings I was having and had never heard of the fact that some markets can't due first run v. repeat or that you can't delete just one episode or otherwise handle conflicts with three shows.

My D* went in yesterday and it works like a dream. It's too bad we have no DSL out here, or I would chuck Comcast altogether.

I went through the advance setup wizard so that all formats would pass through, and let the TV make the adjustments. What should I change to see if it will reduce?

Try using just the 720p for HD. This will allow the box to perform the 1080i conversion reducing the work the TV is performing.

To the unknown person with the flashhing on HDMI - It's your display having issues with format conversion between different resolutions. Change your output to a fixed resolution and then the TV will no longer have to try to resync each time a channels is changed. I suggest 1080 for minimal and better conversions, since your TV will reformat both 720 and 1080 to it's native resolution of the panel (less than 5% of displays show 1280x720 without some scaling, so you might as well provide it the higher 1080 resolution and let it scale that instead - unless your display halves the 1080 resolution instead of deinterlacing it)

vegggas

To the unknown person with the flashhing on HDMI - It's your display having issues with format conversion between different resolutions. Change your output to a fixed resolution and then the TV will no longer have to try to resync each time a channels is changed. I suggest 1080 for minimal and better conversions, since your TV will reformat both 720 and 1080 to it's native resolution of the panel (less than 5% of displays show 1280x720 without some scaling, so you might as well provide it the higher 1080 resolution and let it scale that instead - unless your display halves the 1080 resolution instead of deinterlacing it)

vegggas

How will this affect sports programs. Will the 1080i cause a worse picture?

How will this affect sports programs. Will the 1080i cause a worse picture?
Depends on the display and how it scales the image. Try it, but used fixed either way.

vegggas

I added the signal amplifier yesterday, and I haven't seen any screen flashing since. Thanks to everyone for all of the help and comments.

Triplejs

To the unknown person with the flashhing on HDMI - It's your display having issues with format conversion between different resolutions. Change your output to a fixed resolution and then the TV will no longer have to try to resync each time a channels is changed. I suggest 1080 for minimal and better conversions, since your TV will reformat both 720 and 1080 to it's native resolution of the panel (less than 5% of displays show 1280x720 without some scaling, so you might as well provide it the higher 1080 resolution and let it scale that instead - unless your display halves the 1080 resolution instead of deinterlacing it)

vegggasI was going to sugges that too :) , but he said someone else has the exact same TV/STB w/HDMI and none of the same problems. My first thought was that all he was seeing was the reformat that takes place when switching resolutions, but then I thought maybe it's something different. He also says it doesn't happen all the time and changing channels again fixes it. It's possible his friend is using a Fixed format though (or doesn't have the same formats enabled), so that would be something to check.

I see he added the amp the cable tech left him and everything is okay now.

I suggest 1080 for minimal and better conversions, since your TV will reformat both 720 and 1080 to it's native resolution of the panel (less than 5% of displays show 1280x720 without some scaling, so you might as well provide it the higher 1080 resolution and let it scale that instead - unless your display halves the 1080 resolution instead of deinterlacing it)

vegggas

I'm a bit confused by this. I thought that 720P provided 720 lines 60 times a second, and that 1080i provided 540 lines 60 times a second, alternating the two interlaced. (Actually, I believe that the standard allows some flexibility in frame rate for i or p with 60 the max). If that is correct, 720p is actually providing more data than 1080i, and on a display with 768 lines, just about as much resolution in terms of displayable lines.

I'm a bit confused by this. I thought that 720P provided 720 lines 60 times a second, and that 1080i provided 540 lines 60 times a second, alternating the two interlaced. (Actually, I believe that the standard allows some flexibility in frame rate for i or p with 60 the max). If that is correct, 720p is actually providing more data than 1080i, and on a display with 768 lines, just about as much resolution in terms of displayable lines.You are mostly correct - except 720p is 720x1280 = 921,600 pixlels 60 times/sec while 1080i is 540x1920 = 1,036,800 pixels 60 times/sec. so 1080i is providing slightly more data/sec than 720p.

What is being forgotten in this discussion (and the advice) is that the typical 768px1366 display is not optimum with either 720p or 1080i input. If one sets up their 8300 to provide fixed resolution of either 720p or 1080i then there will be TWO conversions (never good) when tuned to the other source (example: if set to 1080i then a 720p program will be converted to 1080i by the 8300 and then from 1080i to 768p by the display) as there is never a 1:1 (or 2:1) ratio on pixels with these conversions a fair amount of detail is lost in the double conversion process.

Of course, like most things, it's a trade-off: the convenience or not having the set going through gyrations when scan rates are changed vs. optimum (well as optimum a 768 x 1366 display can be with a 720 x 1280 or 1080 x 1920 input) picture detail.

1080i is not the same as 540p and is still a greater resolution than 720p. 1080i is two sets of alternating and different 540 lines of data at half the rate as a progressive signal. 720p is all (1280x)720 lines at the same time, whereas 1080i sends all odd lines of a frame, then all even lines for a full resolution of 1920x1080.
How a progressive display scales an interlaced signal cn have a HUGE variation in the quality of the percieved image. Some dispay scalers will sum both fields of 540 lines together for a total of 1080 lines, and then reduce that down to fit the native resolution of the panel (usually 768 lines). Tis looks quite good. Other scalers will discard half the fields and only use 540 (out of a full 1080) lines, deinterlace by interpolation or other redundant copy method and scale that up to the native resolution of the panel.
Don't quote this as fact, but as a general summary of display quirkiness and how signals are supposed to be delivered and viewed.
Keep in mind that while the refresh rate is faster with progressive images, the interlaced images are still much faster than the eye can perceive (with crt phosphor persistance) if using a true interlaced display.
vegggas

1080i is not the same as 540p and is still a greater resolution than 720p. If this was a comment on my comment - it IS the same as far as a data rate. That was the point that I was making in regards to Millwood's statement that "720p is actually providing more data than 1080i" so my calculations were about the amount of pixels transmitted in 1/60 second.

No it was meant to try to clear the myth that 1080i = 540p or that 720P has more resolution than 1080. 1080 has a higer resolution than 720 - regardless of the refresh or data rate - period.
Here's a good analogy. On your PC, reduce your resolution by 30% and increase the refresh frequency. Does that give you a higher resolution? NO, it just increases the data by refreshing it faster.

vegggas

Well this morning at 3:00 am my box rebooted and downloaded SARA version 1.89.20.1 on Cablevision's Norwalk, CT system. I was on a 1.88 version before.

Has anyone else been upgraded by Cablevision? If so, any problems or obvious advantages?

Has anyone else been upgraded by Cablevision? If so, any problems or obvious advantages?

I would think all areas have it as of today. I lost a couple of all episode scheduled recordings from my list and had to add them back, also all of my placeholders reset to a date of 6/28. The forth recording option for all episode recordings is great.

No it was meant to try to clear the myth that 1080i = 540p or that 720P has more resolution than 1080. 1080 has a higer resolution than 720 - regardless of the refresh or data rate - period.Oh I ABSOLUTELY AGREE with that. And yes, I've seen lots of people spread that misunderstanding.

Has anyone else been upgraded by Cablevision? If so, any problems or obvious advantages?

There are several switched digital pages in the diagnostics. I'm having a bit of trouble interpreting them by guesswork - I think that the SDV is not yet active.

CV is rumored to add 15 HD channels from Voom next week. I expect them to use SDV.

But CV has been using SDV for while for its international channels. I had no luck with it and canceled - but that was with 1.88.23.100

My observations after 2 days of 1.89.20.1 from Cablevision.

Some scheduled recordings disappeared from my list. What appears to have happened is that scheduled recordings that were set up as, all episodes, any day in this time slot under the old version got deleted after the first time they recorded, or the first time they try to match guide data, in the new version. Perhaps this is because the new 4th recording option (this day in this time slot) is very similar and the terminology didn't translate to the new version. The ones that I reset up yesterday recorded fine this morning and are scheduled through out the next week.

The placeholders in this version move to 1 day past the guide data daily. All of my placeholders had a date of 6/28 yesterday; today they all have a date of 6/29. This will keep them from interfering with any other recordings you want to schedule which was a problem in the old version. That is a great improvement.

If you enter an invalid channel number you still get the ???? in our version.

The info button still shows the playback channel info during playback, not the show description for us.

RemyM,

I'm surprised at what happened to your placeholders. I assume some of them are for weekly series and not just dailies. What happens to the placeholder when a weekly records? Do they move to 1 day past at the time of recording and then get reset to the correct day when the IPG is updated over nigt? Do you have a 7 day IPG?

The Invalid Channel and Info Button things are known to vary by location/cableco. There must be options for the cableco to set and some just don't set them right. We don't get the ???? here, it simply goes to the next channel, but we don't get the show description either.

RemyM,

I'm surprised at what happened to your placeholders. I assume some of them are for weekly series and not just dailies. What happens to the placeholder when a weekly records? Do they move to 1 day past at the time of recording and then get reset to the correct day when the IPG is updated over nigt? Do you have a 7 day IPG?

My placeholders for shows not currently airing, or airing repeats, are for weekly shows. I have so few weekly shows actually recording at this time it's hard to tell what happens yet when a new one starts. I'll try to check next Wednesday, which are the only weeklys I have right now, or I'll try to test it with something I don't normally watch. My guess is that they move 8 days past the recording. I have a 7 day guide.

RemyM,

What happens to the placeholder when a weekly records?

I just tested this. When it started to record it put the placeholder 7 days out to 6/29. Same date it has all my other placeholders, at least until tomorrow. ;)

Ok, I think I misunderstood what you were saying in the original post. Sorry. :)

So today all of my placeholders are still at 6/29, they didn't move forward a day like they did yesterday. :confused:

Now I'm confused, can you give a specific example? Are you saying that when you press List, every scheduled recording in the list has a date of 6/29?

Dave, I haven't followed this discussion in detail - but it if I recall correctly, mine did the same sort of thing for awhile shortly after the upgrade to 1.89.19.1. It eventually recorded all programs correctly, and the issue went away (or at least I didn't pay much attention to it). I just checked my Scheduled Recordings list, and it does not show the issue now (but then I just "cleared away" all the scheduled programs for last season.

That's interesting, must be a cableco thing again, mine didn't do that at all.

Only my shows that are not currently airing, or not airing new episodes, are showing a date of 6/29. For example, Boston Legal, 30 Rock and South Park. My recordings that are supposed to happen are happening and listed correctly. When I had 1.88 the non recording placeholders had a date 9 days after their last successful recording. Wednesday, the first date after the update, the non recording placeholders switched to Thursday 6/28. On Thursday they all switched to Friday 6/29. Today they are still at 6/29. All things that are supposed to record are listed in their correct date and times.

RemyM,

Okay, got it now, I was hoping that's all it was. I must admit that I'm not sure I looked at that the same day we got 1.89 here, so I simply might not have seen it. I did notice the place-holder went from 9 to the correct 7 days, but I can't say that was the same day either. I just don't remember them going to the same date like yours did.

I just don't remember them going to the same date like yours did.That part I do remember - I was a little worried (like RemyM is) at first - but it has been real good since (actually, in most aspects it has been rock solid).

Turned the TV on last week on Wednesday (??) at noon to watch the news and ALL channels were blank & all previously recorded programs played back as blank screens.

Sound was OK.

I'm pretty sure all weekly recordings were shown as recording on one specific day (6/28?) including programs from earlier in the season that I'd removed once the repeats started (ER, Law & Order, etc.)

I did a reboot and all went back to normal.

Not sure if this problem occurred after an upgrade or not...........

Thanks Dave and Dave. After the first two days I was just expecting that all non recording placeholders would always be one day after the guide data. I did check and none of them have caused the guide to turn red like it used to in 1.88. So at least they won't effect us if we try to schedule a recording in they same slot as the placeholder.

I've noticed that now with 1.89, that all of the placeholders always reset to 7 days out every time the box reboots. This could be why RemyM thought they were resetting every day. His box may have been rebooting.

I've noticed that now with 1.89, that all of the placeholders always reset to 7 days out every time the box reboots. This could be why RemyM thought they were resetting every day. His box may have been rebooting.

That's an interesting observation. I did reboot my box the second day of the update because I got a three way conflict screen but it only listed two recordings. So that would explain why they moved that day but haven't moved since. That's something easy to test, just need to reboot again.

I've noticed that now with 1.89, that all of the placeholders always reset to 7 days out every time the box reboots. This could be why RemyM thought they were resetting every day. His box may have been rebooting.I'm not going to reboot just to test that, but it certainly sounds plausible. I have a couple of placeholders from May 18 and that seems like it may have been the last time I rebooted.

This is my third 8300 box, my first 8300hd box, and this one sucks just as bad as the rest of them :eek:

Long time ago, I had a different model number (can't remember the model number but it looked different than the 8300 and behaved different) that would automatically kick off the oldest recorded dvr program or programs whenever it needed room for something new. This was done automatically, and I never once had to select items to be deleted and never once did the box cut something short because it ran out of space.

But these sorry 8300's don't work that way. Just the other night I set it up to record Matrix Reloaded hd because I just loved watching it on my new plasma. Well I went to go watch it tonight and it says ended early because it ran out of space.

I have Auto Erase turned ON but this option is useless it does absolutely nothing of value. Because if I try to record something and the disk is full it makes me go pick stuff to delete. If I program something to record later and it runs out of space, it cuts the recording short.

This is ridiculous. I have already turned on the option that is supposed to automatically delete old content to make room for new, I don't care if it deletes something from 7 days ago. But it just won't do this.

I believe if you use Auto Erase, but have your individual recordings set to "Until I Delete", that takes precedence. If you want to have Auto Erase work, change your default "Save Time" to something other than "Until I Delete" (List/"B"/Change Save Time).

I believe if you use Auto Erase, but have your individual recordings set to "Until I Delete", that takes precedence. If you want to have Auto Erase work, change your default "Save Time" to something other than "Until I Delete" (List/"B"/Change Save Time).

But that's the thing is I have default save time at 14 days, always have it set like that. I went thru the list and verified that all stored programs show erase dates 14 days after their saved dates. The only one that didn't was Witness which I know my wife manually changed to Until I Erase.

Could it be that even if just one program is set as "Until I Erase" that the auto-erase won't work?

I went ahead and set Witness to 14 days so everything is 14 days now and drive is almost full. Now I have an HD program scheduled to record tonight, either it's going to have to bump something off or it's not going to be able to fit the new recording. I'll see tomorrow!

I don't know what could be wrong. I don't use Auto Erase and all mine are set to Until I Delete. Hopefully someone who uses Auto Erase will chime in and help. I know there are some problems in 1.89.x.x, but I thought those were limited to message displays (see end of first post). I don't think having one set to Until I Delete would affect it. Be sure to let us know what happens.

I have a SARA 8300:

Flash: 1.88.25.1
SARA:1.88.25.1 (global cfg, mon jul 11, 2005, page 14/35)

I have it plugged into a Yamaha RX V2700. I have a Toshiba HDDVD plugged into the same receiver. Both are connected via HDMI. The HDDVD has no issue with displaying 720p/1080 on my 52" Mits DLP.

The DVR will not output a picture on the HDMI thru the amp. If I connect the DVR directly to the TV, it will output a picture on the HDMI.

Help??

How do I upgrade my SARA version? I did a reboot (unplug power) 2 days ago, but it didn't update my SARA version. I think updating the SARA is the 1st potential fix. Do I have to call Comcast (I'm in Houston, we switched from TWC to Comcast this week).

Also, I noticed that when I select picture format (pass through, fixed, upconvert 1/2) I don't have an auto HDMI option. I have component and HDMI hooked up currently (cause the HDMI doesn't work, but I do get a component picture on the TV). Shouldn't I have a HDMI auto option?

Were your programs recorded more than 14 days ago? If so, they shouldn't still be in your list--they should have been automatically erased after 14 days whether you still had free space or not. If this is not how your box is behaving, then something is wrong with it.

If you've told the box to save the programs for 14 days, and the box fills up before the 14 days are up, then you're going to run out of room. It's not, "Save for 14 days unless the box fills up."

I have a SARA 8300:

Flash: 1.88.25.1
SARA:1.88.25.1 (global cfg, mon jul 11, 2005, page 14/35)

I have it plugged into a Yamaha RX V2700. I have a Toshiba HDDVD plugged into the same receiver. Both are connected via HDMI. The HDDVD has no issue with displaying 720p/1080 on my 52" Mits DLP.

The DVR will not output a picture on the HDMI thru the amp. If I connect the DVR directly to the TV, it will output a picture on the HDMI.

Help??

How do I upgrade my SARA version? I did a reboot (unplug power) 2 days ago, but it didn't update my SARA version. I think updating the SARA is the 1st potential fix. Do I have to call Comcast (I'm in Houston, we switched from TWC to Comcast this week).
You have no control in upgrading your SARA version. Comcast will download a new version of SARA when it wants to. I think right now they have too many other changes going on (changing email addresses, changing digital phone, and changing video on demand) so I don't expect a new version any time soon. You can call and try to get someone who might know more about any plans on downloading a new SARA version.

Also, I noticed that when I select picture format (pass through, fixed, upconvert 1/2) I don't have an auto HDMI option. I have component and HDMI hooked up currently (cause the HDMI doesn't work, but I do get a component picture on the TV). Shouldn't I have a HDMI auto option?

The DVR will not output a picture on the HDMI thru the amp. If I connect the DVR directly to the TV, it will output a picture on the HDMI.That is a problem with some AVRs, they don't pass through HDMI signals or do the HDCP handshake properly. There is little you can do until you get either a firmware upgrade for your AVR or a new version of SARA that fixes it. Also, with the most recent software updates, the 8300 no longer puts out a signal on both Component and HDMI at the same time.

Also, I noticed that when I select picture format (pass through, fixed, upconvert 1/2) I don't have an auto HDMI option. I have component and HDMI hooked up currently (cause the HDMI doesn't work, but I do get a component picture on the TV). Shouldn't I have a HDMI auto option?Disconnect the Component cable and then see if you get the Auto-HDMI option, it replaces the Pass-Through option. You may have to reboot.

That is a problem with some AVRs, they don't pass through HDMI signals or do the HDCP handshake properly. There is little you can do until you get either a firmware upgrade for your AVR or a new version of SARA that fixes it. Also, with the most recent software updates, the 8300 no longer puts out a signal on both Component and HDMI at the same time. I do know that the version of SARA installed in this area has changed this HDCP thru AVR receiver situation somewhat. Some cases (with Denon receivers) that previously did not work, now work. And from what I have read here, some people are experiencing HDCP issues, where they did not have them with 1.87 & 1.88 :confused:

If you've told the box to save the programs for 14 days, and the box fills up before the 14 days are up, then you're going to run out of room. It's not, "Save for 14 days unless the box fills up."

I think that's kind of my point. There should be a way to tell it to knock off old content automatically to make room for new. The "Auto Erase ON" gives that impression by it's description but it doesn't work that way.

My old SD box from a couple years ago in Ohio, did automatically bump the old to make room for the new. No questions asked, no items to select for deletion, no cutting of recorded programs short because the drive filled up.

I dislike this 8300hd because of that. I had the opportunity to record a full length HD movie but when I went to watch it a couple of days later the box had stopped it short because the drive got full. Given the option, I would prefer that it just automatically deleted the oldest content.

I'm pretty certain the box is working the way it's designed too - probem is the design stinks :)

I dislike this 8300hd because of that. I had the opportunity to record a full length HD movie but when I went to watch it a couple of days later the box had stopped it short because the drive got full. Given the option, I would prefer that it just automatically deleted the oldest content.Some of us wouldn't. I archive a number of HD programs that I don't want erased. I have no way to transfer them to a more permanent media, so I am just keeping them. I keep an eye on the percentage of disk space available and would prefer to manually delete other things if felt that I didn't have enough room.

A suitable option might be if SA provided a way to mark shows that I don't want deleted and allow auto-deletion of unmarked shows but that is not an option with the 8300.

A suitable option might be if SA provided a way to mark shows that I don't want deleted and allow auto-deletion of unmarked shows

EXACTLY!! This is what I'm trying to say.... That would be the ideal. Again, an older box I had way back when (probably 3 years ago) did this. Pretty sure it was the 8000 because it looked like the picture on their web site of the 8000.

Isn't that is what the "Until I Erase" option is for?

FWIW, I think all that is the way it's SUPPOSED to work. I don't play around with that because I simply don't care. I manage my recordings and don't want the box to do it for me no matter what. But then I tend to watch what I record and don't record just because I can, like so many do. I usually go through my list on Sundays and delete anything we haven't watched. I just don't record stuff I might watch 3 months from now. That doesn't mean there is anything wrong with doing that, it's just why I don't test that function.

I think that's kind of my point. There should be a way to tell it to knock off old content automatically to make room for new. The "Auto Erase ON" gives that impression by it's description but it doesn't work that way.

Given the option, I would prefer that it just automatically deleted the oldest content.I've had an 8300 for two years now, and it wasn't until you posted this message that I realized there might be a hole in the auto-delete function.

Why? Because I have never turned that function on. I prefer to manually manage which programs are kept and which are deleted. I also prefer to have the box err on the side of preserving recorded content.

Now that you've called my attention to it, I agree that it's not intuitive how the "auto delete" function is supposed to work. I'm not convinced it won't do what you want it to do, but it's certainly possible that it won't, and it's also certainly not clear how to use that feature.

Have you tried turning the "Auto Erase" function on, then setting some programs to be saved "Until I erase them", and then see if those will be erased when the disk gets full?

So my box froze during a playback last night and I had to reboot. All of the non recording placeholders moved to July 6. So that's it, a reboot is what makes them move. 1.89.20.1 from Cablevision.

Isn't that is what the "Until I Erase" option is for?

The Until I Erase option seems to work to maintain recorded programs indefinitely - I don't have a problem with that. Every now and then there's one or two things I want to keep around a little longer.

But everything else, all the kid's shows, the wife's CSI episodes, the things that don't really matter all that much, I would like for the Auto Erase ON option to just boot those off as more room is needed to save new stuff.

I go back to my Matrix Reloaded example. I caught a part of this movie on TV and just couldn't get over how good it looked on my new TV. So I set the DVR to record the whole thing when it replayed later that same night.

Two days later I go to play it back and find out the DVR took it upon itself to not record the whole thing because "not enough space". So instead of the DVR just automatically deleting a 10 day old sponge bob episode to fit the whole Matrix movie, the thing just stopped recording. This is not right. What if it was something more critical than Matrix?

The other example is when I go to schedule a recording, and the DVR stops me and says "there won't be enough room to record this, please select items to delete". Then I have to manually select stuff to delete and try to set up the recording again. It should just automatically delete old stuff. This isn't asking too much :rolleyes:

jimmytop,

I think most of us understand what you want to do, we just don't know why it's not working. If you have some recordings set to some timeframe other than "Until I Delete", Auto-Erase SHOULD delete those, but apparently that isn't working correctly.

BTW, what version of SARA are you using?????

jimmytop,

I think most of us understand what you want to do, we just don't know why it's not working. If you have some recordings set to some timeframe other than "Until I Delete", Auto-Erase SHOULD delete those, but apparently that isn't working correctly.

BTW, what version of SARA are you using?????

The last time I checked it was a 1.88 version but let me look when I get home and get the whole number.

The last time I checked it was a 1.88 version but let me look when I get home and get the whole number.The reason I ask is because if it's 1.88, I will try to test this feature Sunday using 1.89, unless someone else pops in saying it also doesn't work with 1.89 before then.

Of course, if you get that notice saying to delete something, I assume you do. :)

The Auto Erase function should work on programs recorded AFTER it is turned on and for those programs originally recorded without the "Until I Delete" option. Previously recorded Programs that were recorded without those two options should not be auto deleted even after you manually change the save time settings (except for the amount of days you set it to) because they were flagged to not be Auto Erased as space is needed.
In summary, to use the feature:
1) Turn ON Auto Erase
2) Change Save Time for Future Recordings to something other than "Until I Erase"
You should also clean out your recordings so that you have a decent amount of working space for the above rule. If you only have 5% space left, and try to start using the feature it's not going to work because you would only have up to 5% of available working space to begin with (hint 5% is not even enough to record 1 hour of HD).
Programs originally recorded with those settings will comply with the rules.
Also, remember that when trying to make free space that there is about a 1 to 6 ratio between SD and HD programs per hour. To record your 7 hours of HD Matrix you would have to delete about 40 hours of SD Sponge Bob recordings. FYI you can only get about 20 hours of HD programming on non-expanded STB's.
Another to thing to remember is that once you run out of space, the currently recording program can be orphaned and stuck on the drive without a header taking up space that you can't delete. Usually a hard reboot will bring the header back to the list so that you can manually delete it. You could have several orphaned recordings on the drive filling it up as well as some that you can't see or delete without reformatting the entire drive. I've seen DVR's with as much as 80GB lost to orphaned files that had to be cleared with a reformat.

vegggas

The Auto Erase function should work on programs recorded AFTER it is turned on and for those programs originally recorded without the "Until I Delete" option. Previously recorded Programs that were recorded without those two options should not be auto deleted even after you manually change the save time settings (except for the amount of days you set it to) because they were flagged to not be Auto Erased as space is needed.

If this is true, then this would explain what I've been seeing. This gives me hope! I will take your suggestions and start with a clean slate. Maybe after that I won't have to worry about it anymore :)
Thanks!

If this is true, then this would explain what I've been seeing. This gives me hope! I will take your suggestions and start with a clean slate. Maybe after that I won't have to worry about it anymore :)
Thanks!I should have thought of that (thanks vegggas - added most of that to the first post). Be sure to let us know because I don't want to do any testing if I don't have to. :)

After you clean everything out, you may want to check the available recording space to make sure you don't have any orphans. Don't forget that you have some overhead, so the amount available won't match 160GB. IIRC, it should be something like 152GB clean.

I should have thought of that (thanks vegggas - added most of that to the first post). Be sure to let us know because I don't want to do any testing if I don't have to. :)

After you clean everything out, you may want to check the available recording space to make sure you don't have any orphans. Don't forget that you have some overhead, so the amount available won't match 160GB. IIRC, it should be something like 152GB clean.

Dave,

Speaking of which.. I said a while back that I would make a FAQ for the 8300- however you have been doing such a good job updating the first post I have been negligent in fulfilling that promise.

Do you still think a database type FAQ is needed? I can do one this weekend if so.

xnappo

Dave,

Speaking of which.. I said a while back that I would make a FAQ for the 8300- however you have been doing such a good job updating the first post I have been negligent in fulfilling that promise.

Do you still think a database type FAQ is needed? I can do one this weekend if so.

xnappoThat's a tough question. As more cableco's migrate to 1.89, the need for the Tips post itself becomes less and less useful to all except those who simply refuse to RTFM. I keep hoping that as more cableco's migrate to 1.89 and then implement OCAP, the Tips post can be significantly reduced.

I'm also trying to envision just what a database type FAQ would look like because it is so much more descriptive (wordy) in nature compared to the more finite, concise data in the SATA databases. If you want to put together a very short sample of what you envision, maybe I'd get a better feel for it.

I don't think much is going to change now for several months and when it does, I think it'll be significant. So, if it were me, I'd hold off until we see what the end of the year brings and go from there. I don't see much need to reinvent the wheel right now and simply put the first post into another form, but I would like to do a database where everyone could add info just like everyone can add their experience to the SATA databases, with a bit of moderation after the fact, if the future suggests there is still a need.

I have no pride of authorship in the first post. and am certainly willing to relinquish control to a database system where everyone can participate without assuming I am some kind of editor who has to approve things. I believe I've added just about everything that has been requested, but maybe that alone puts people off and keeps some from offering suggestions. If you do one, we can always put the link at the beginning of the first post and see where it goes.

I recorded the news a couple months ago (30 minutes). When I went to play it back, it was an episode of "24"(1 hour).
It was obvious that it was a glitch, and the dir entry was pointing to an old episode of "24" I had recorded. So, I finally watched "24" and erase it.
Who can guess what happened?
Drum roll........................................................ .......

The news entry did not erase as I suspected, instead it became available where it was supposed so be. Hey, looks like the Suns are doing well ;)

I recorded the news a couple months ago (30 minutes). When I went to play it back, it was an episode of "24"(1 hour).
It was obvious that it was a glitch, and the dir entry was pointing to an old episode of "24" I had recorded. So, I finally watched "24" and erase it.
Who can guess what happened?
Drum roll........................................................ .......

The news entry did not erase as I suspected, instead it became available where it was supposed so be. Hey, looks like the Suns are doing well ;)Similar "glitches" in the index have happened to me maybe twice or three times in the last two years. Pullng power from the box and letting it go through the power-up sequence resolved the problems (though in one case, one program steadfastly refused to play back, and had to be deleted).

If you haven't done a power cycle yet, I'd suggest it. There may be other glitches in your program index that you haven't noticed yet, and a reboot could clean things up before more trouble occurs.

Hopefully somone here can help me out. I can't find anyhting with searching and I havent been able to read through all 196 pages of this thread. I came home from a month long vacation to find my SA 8300HD off and i had to unplug it and plug it back in to get it to power up. When I did that, it said "boot" then the LED screen shows 4 lines across it and no image is displayed from the unit. Is there a problem with my box? Is it dead? Or can I save it

Thanks
john

The first post in this thread has several things you can try. The first thing to try is a Hard Reboot. You may need to call the cable company to have them send a signal to reset the DVR. Then try a Total Reset. The last thing to try is the Last Resort. If none of those work then you will have to exchange the box. Good Luck! Let us know what works.

Hopefully somone here can help me out. I can't find anyhting with searching and I havent been able to read through all 196 pages of this thread. I came home from a month long vacation to find my SA 8300HD off and i had to unplug it and plug it back in to get it to power up. When I did that, it said "boot" then the LED screen shows 4 lines across it and no image is displayed from the unit. Is there a problem with my box? Is it dead? Or can I save it

Thanks
john

I suspect it got deactivated. I'd try the hard reboot from the first post and then call the cableco, as RussB suggested, if that doesn't work.

jpasiczn,
Another possibility is that the digital signal is down. I have left my 8300 untouched for over a month and not had an issue. Make sure the digital cable signal is healthy to the box.

TerryB

I now have the issue of the STB reported less disk space available than I think it should. It may be caused by below. I have an external drive attached and should have a total of 51 hours of HD. It is reporting 28% full when I have just 7 recordings for about 10 hours.

Any thoughts about how I get the space back?

Bug confirmed.

Some of you may remember a few weeks back I had the problem with disk space disappearing. While the cable company said it must be broken, just exchange it, I sespected otherwise. Well, I did exchange it, and guess what? It happened again (surprise).

This time, however, it happened at a point where I had an idea what I was doing when it happened, so I was able to narrow it down. Here's how you reproduce it:
- While watching a channel, hit the record button and start recording a program
- While the program is still recording, hit the DVR button and select "Play from start"
- While watching and before the program stops recording, press stop to bring you to the menu
- Select "erase program"

Guess what, you now just lost the disk space being used by that recording. I power off reset may sometimes recover some of it. A reset and code reload may also recover some of it. But nothing seems to ever recover all of it.

Just for the record, this is SARA version 1.88.23.1 from Cablevision in NJ.

I'm reformatting now just to make sure that really does eliminate the lost space.

The first thing you should do is watch all the recorded programs on the DVR that you want to see because at least one of the procedures erases everything on the hard drive. Next, follow the instructions in the post that you quoted. The instructions for each procedure are in the first post in this thread.
I now have the issue of the STB reported less disk space available than I think it should. It may be caused by below. I have an external drive attached and should have a total of 51 hours of HD. It is reporting 28% full when I have just 7 recordings for about 10 hours.

Any thoughts about how I get the space back?

I now have the issue of the STB reported less disk space available than I think it should. It may be caused by below. I have an external drive attached and should have a total of 51 hours of HD. It is reporting 28% full when I have just 7 recordings for about 10 hours.

Any thoughts about how I get the space back?

Yes, reformatting is the only way to get it back. Since you have an external drive, you may want to see which drive has the lost space. If its only the internal one you could disconnect the external one and just reformat the internal one. That way you don't lose anything stored on the external drive.

The first post in this thread has several things you can try. The first thing to try is a Hard Reboot. You may need to call the cable company to have them send a signal to reset the DVR. Then try a Total Reset. The last thing to try is the Last Resort. If none of those work then you will have to exchange the box. Good Luck! Let us know what works.


All i had to do was call the cable co and get them to send a signal to the box, and poof just like that it was fine. really weird, she didnt know why the problem started in the first place. Oh well, it works now

john

Yes, reformatting is the only way to get it back. Since you have an external drive, you may want to see which drive has the lost space. If its only the internal one you could disconnect the external one and just reformat the internal one. That way you don't lose anything stored on the external drive.
NOOOOOO!!!! Don't reformat JUST the internal drive without the external drive being connected and reformatted too! Reformatting just the internal drive will delete the mapping data of the external contents making them orphaned on the drive and taking up unrecoverable space, making the problem WORSE.
If you reformat, do it with both drives connected to recover all the space.
Similarly, the orphaned contents can also be created by a bad connection with the external drive when deleting shows. You can delete the header and mapping data, but the DVR can't get to the external drive (because of a bad connection) to erase the content, thus leaving "unusable" space on the external drive. This is common when you play a show from the list and it just flashes and goes back to the list. It means the header is intact, but it can't get to the data on the drive. By deleting that file, you will leave the unusable data on the drive still taking up space.

vegggas

NOOOOOO!!!! Don't reformat JUST the internal drive without the external drive being connected and reformatted too! Reformatting just the internal drive will delete the mapping data of the external contents making them orphaned on the drive and taking up unrecoverable space, making the problem WORSE.
If you reformat, do it with both drives connected to recover all the space.
Similarly, the orphaned contents can also be created by a bad connection with the external drive when deleting shows. You can delete the header and mapping data, but the DVR can't get to the external drive (because of a bad connection) to erase the content, thus leaving "unusable" space on the external drive. This is common when you play a show from the list and it just flashes and goes back to the list. It means the header is intact, but it can't get to the data on the drive. By deleting that file, you will leave the unusable data on the drive still taking up space.

vegggas

Damn, yes, you are correct. Sorry, I completely forgot about the depth of stupidity of this box. Thanks for catching it.

So yes, you are stuck erasing everything to get your space back.

hi all, been following this thread for awhile but i believe this is my first post in it.
i just picked up the 8300 yesterday morning. upgrade from the 3250hd. so far everything is pretty good even though the box has obviously been well used. only one issue I'd like some advice on. 4 of my HD channels wont display. with the channel up/down button it skips over them and if i input the channel numbers it says i need to call TWC to subscribe to those channels. i do sub to those channels.
those channels are displaying without issue on the 3250 box that i moved to another room.
i tried unplugging the unit for a few min. and letting it reboot but still not right. appreciate any help with this problem.

Call TWC and tell 'em you're having trouble. They probably need to send a signal to your box to enable it to tune those channels. Takes about 15 seconds (once you get through to them on the phone).

thats a problem too. we just changed from adelphia to TWC (well they've been in the process of changing over for a year) and every time I've called the main TWC number they act like they don't know who i am. once they told me i wasn't a customer of theirs. three times they said they had the wrong phone number for me(even though i corrected it each time i called). and the last time they just told me to go to the local service center because i wasn't in their system. i bet if i missed a few payments they'd know who i am. so just calling them is a big deal. and the local kiosk is closed today. i reckon I'll wait till tomorrow. i can live without ESPN 1,2, mojo, hdnet one more day if i have to.

thats a problem too. we just changed from adelphia to TWC (well they've been in the process of changing over for a year) and every time I've called the main TWC number they act like they don't know who i am. once they told me i wasn't a customer of theirs. three times they said they had the wrong phone number for me(even though i corrected it each time i called). and the last time they just told me to go to the local service center because i wasn't in their system. i bet if i missed a few payments they'd know who i am. so just calling them is a big deal. and the local kiosk is closed today. i reckon I'll wait till tomorrow. i can live without ESPN 1,2, mojo, hdnet one more day if i have to.Does your TW system have a way to contact them with service issues via e-mail? We have that feature in Rochester, and I've found that it seems to work better than calling on the phone. The other "hint" is that when you cotact them via phone, use the customer number on the bill. I'll bet the computer understands that, and usig that you will probably have more success getting the phone number situation corrected.

When TWC was operating the Houston Cable system, they had an automated phone number that you could call to authorize the DVR. If you have a phone number like that you could try it.
hi all, been following this thread for awhile but i believe this is my first post in it.
i just picked up the 8300 yesterday morning. upgrade from the 3250hd. so far everything is pretty good even though the box has obviously been well used. only one issue I'd like some advice on. 4 of my HD channels wont display. with the channel up/down button it skips over them and if i input the channel numbers it says i need to call TWC to subscribe to those channels. i do sub to those channels.
those channels are displaying without issue on the 3250 box that i moved to another room.
i tried unplugging the unit for a few min. and letting it reboot but still not right. appreciate any help with this problem.

thats a problem too. we just changed from adelphia to TWC (well they've been in the process of changing over for a year) and every time I've called the main TWC number they act like they don't know who i am. once they told me i wasn't a customer of theirs. three times they said they had the wrong phone number for me(even though i corrected it each time i called). and the last time they just told me to go to the local service center because i wasn't in their system. ... the local kiosk is closed today. i reckon I'll wait till tomorrow. Well, your system may be different, but I don't think a customer counter person will be able to help you with this. The signal needs to come from the head end equipment so that the head end and your box are in agreement about what channels your box is authorized to receive. The folks who can get the head end to send the signal are the folks at the call center, not the folks at the customer counter.

Does your TW system have a way to contact them with service issues via e-mail? .

not that I'm aware of. when i go to the TWC web site and put in my zip it says no info available.

The other "hint" is that when you contact them via phone, use the customer number on the bill. I'll bet the computer understands that, and usig that you will probably have more success getting the phone number situation corrected.[/QUOTE]
they never ask for a customer number (that does sound like the logical place to start) just a phone number. my number hasn't changed since i moved here. then when they couldn't find me using that they ask for a name that didn't work either. then they wanted my address and thats when they told me the phone number was wrong. and they supposedly corrected it. 3 different times i went through this.

When TWC was operating the Houston Cable system, they had an automated phone number that you could call to authorize the DVR. If you have a phone number like that you could try it.

not that i'm aware of here. the bill only has one phone number for TW and it conects me to a place in charlotte nc. the same place that said i wasnt a customer of theirs. however it has been a month or so since i last called them. possibly they are further along in the change over now and that is an option now with that number.

Well, your system may be different, but I don't think a customer counter person will be able to help you with this. The signal needs to come from the head end equipment so that the head end and your box are in agreement about what channels your box is authorized to receive. The folks who can get the head end to send the signal are the folks at the call center, not the folks at the customer counter.

any time I've ever needed anything. such as when i added digital package, added HD package. added HBO ect. the local center was the ones i talked to in person and they clicked some things on their computer and said "it will be on when you get home" and as they said, it was. possibly they sent the order to the head end people. i don't know but it works.

any time I've ever needed anything. such as when i added digital package, added HD package. added HBO ect. the local center was the ones i talked to in person and they clicked some things on their computer and said "it will be on when you get home" and as they said, it was. possibly they sent the order to the head end people. i don't know but it works.Maybe you'll have better luck than me, then. In my system, the customer counter folks seemed to be able to handle swapping around different channel "packages" (analog basic vs. digital basic vs. digital extras, etc.) that didn't involve premium (individually encrypted) channels.

The few channels I got that were not part of the highest "digital everything except premium channels" package (in my case, ESPN HD and the two HDNets) were always disabled whenever I brought home a new box, and I had to call to get those premium channels re-enabled.

I always specifically asked the customer counter folks, "Is this new box enabled for all my channels, so I can just plug it in and everything will work?" "Yes, sir--it's ready to go," I was always told. Three times I went through this drill; three times I got home, and still had to call in and get those handful of special channels enabled. (Oddly, when I fired up the new box, I always got HBO (which I didn't pay for), but not ESPN HD and the HDNets. After they hit my box with their signal, HBO stopped and ESPN/HDNet worked.)

You may indeed have a different situation, but when I read your original post, my first thought was, "Yeah, I've been to that movie, and I can tell him how it ends."

Good luck.

In the Arlington/Alexandria VA market for Comcast, the SA 8300 has been the standard HD/DVR box. Has anyone heard anything about a new box that replaces this model.

I heard some rumor that they are using a new box as of this week, but havent been able to confirm this.

It probably is the SA 8300 HD with a cable card. Click here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=10734495&&#post10734495) to go to the post by davehancock that has more info about it.

In the Arlington/Alexandria VA market for Comcast, the SA 8300 has been the standard HD/DVR box. Has anyone heard anything about a new box that replaces this model.

I heard some rumor that they are using a new box as of this week, but havent been able to confirm this.

Maybe you'll have better luck than me, then. In my system, the customer counter folks seemed to be able to handle swapping around different channel "packages" (analog basic vs. digital basic vs. digital extras, etc.) that didn't involve premium (individually encrypted) channels.

The few channels I got that were not part of the highest "digital everything except premium channels" package (in my case, ESPN HD and the two HDNets) were always disabled whenever I brought home a new box, and I had to call to get those premium channels re-enabled.

I always specifically asked the customer counter folks, "Is this new box enabled for all my channels, so I can just plug it in and everything will work?" "Yes, sir--it's ready to go," I was always told. Three times I went through this drill; three times I got home, and still had to call in and get those handful of special channels enabled. (Oddly, when I fired up the new box, I always got HBO (which I didn't pay for), but not ESPN HD and the HDNets. After they hit my box with their signal, HBO stopped and ESPN/HDNet worked.)

You may indeed have a different situation, but when I read your original post, my first thought was, "Yeah, I've been to that movie, and I can tell him how it ends."

Good luck.

i swung by the local service center this AM while i was out and about and told the counter lady the situation. she asked which channels it was and i told her. she clicked a few things on her computer and said "i changed some codes, it should be fine now, let me know if you have any other problems" when i got home the box was powered off (i always leave it on). i turned the TV and box on and the problem was solved.

EDIT: i checked later today after adding it to my harmony remote. and the DVR was disabled. said i needed to subscribe to DVR service. i unplugged it and waited awhile and when i plugged it back up it still didn't work. so while i was out and about i popped into TW again. she checked and said "yep, i see it" clicked a few more things then said she was sorry and that she would credit me for the time since i picked up the box. i came home the box was powered off again and when i turned it on the DVR worked and all my channels were there. finally Joy.

Here are some other questions that may help if answered:
1. Does this happen only on HDMI or also on component?
2. Is anything else connected to the TV?
3. Is it the same HD channels that display the flashing?
4. What are the resolutions of the channels that have the problem?
5. What is the native resolution of your TV?


Sorry I didn't incude my City and State before.

Columbus, OH - Wide Open West
Firmware on my cable box is SARA 1.89.20.1

1. Only on HDMI I assume. Don't have component cables to hook it up to.
2. PS3 (HDMI), DVD player are also connected.
3. Different HD channels.
4. Either 720p or 1080i usually. Seems to happen when I switch between them.
5. 1080p I beleive. It is a Sony KDS-A2000

To the unknown person with the flashhing on HDMI - It's your display having issues with format conversion between different resolutions. Change your output to a fixed resolution and then the TV will no longer have to try to resync each time a channels is changed. I suggest 1080 for minimal and better conversions, since your TV will reformat both 720 and 1080 to it's native resolution of the panel (less than 5% of displays show 1280x720 without some scaling, so you might as well provide it the higher 1080 resolution and let it scale that instead - unless your display halves the 1080 resolution instead of deinterlacing it)

vegggas

I assume that you are referring to me. I would prefer that the box output the signal in the format it is supposed to be and then let my TV scale it.

My thought is that if I output a 720 signal at the fixed 1080 and then have my TV scale it from there, it is getting scaled twice, which I would like to avoid.

I assume that you are referring to me. I would prefer that the box output the signal in the format it is supposed to be and then let my TV scale it.

My thought is that if I output a 720 signal at the fixed 1080 and then have my TV scale it from there, it is getting scaled twice, which I would like to avoid.Good thought, but there would only be one conversion of the 720 signal (by the 8300). It's just that the 8300 does it instead of your A2000.

Avoiding "fixed" output is particularly important with sets with non-HDTV resolutions (768x1366, for example) where there would be a conversion in the 8300 and then another in the display - but you have a native 1080 display with 1:1 pixel mapping.

Good thought, but there would only be one conversion of the 720 signal (by the 8300). It's just that the 8300 does it instead of your A2000.

Avoiding "fixed" output is particularly important with sets with non-HDTV resolutions (768x1366, for example) where there would be a conversion in the 8300 and then another in the display - but you have a native 1080 display with 1:1 pixel mapping.

So is the converter in my cable box better or wrose than the one in my TV? I was assuming the converter was better in the TV , so I was trying to let it convert it all.

Let me see if I understand....

If I output everything at 1080i from the cable box on the upconvert1 setting, then everything will get output from my box at 1080i. It seems that 480i would get output at 480p at this setting as well.

So ESPN will get converted at the box from 720p to 1080i and then to 1080p at my TV, or does my TV just leave it at 1080i?

Should I choose "fixed" instead, so that everything is output at 1080i from the box? How will that make 480 stuff look?

Why can't my box just work like it is supposed to and did before they updated it? (This is a retorical question, but it makes me feel better to write it.)

So is the converter in my cable box better or wrose than the one in my TV? I was assuming the converter was better in the TV , so I was trying to let it convert it all.Hard for me to answer, but I would suspect that the converter in the TV would be better.

Let me see if I understand....

If I output everything at 1080i from the cable box on the upconvert1 setting, then everything will get output from my box at 1080i. It seems that 480i would get output at 480p at this setting as well.Not sure - I don't use Upconvert. But see my comment below.

So ESPN will get converted at the box from 720p to 1080i and then to 1080p at my TV, or does my TV just leave it at 1080i?No, it has to convert it to 1080p, because that's the way the display works.

Should I choose "fixed" instead, so that everything is output at 1080i from the box? How will that make 480 stuff look?Try it and see. But I suspect that it (480 stuff) would look better if the TV did the converting (then you also have use of the DRC settings).

Why can't my box just work like it is supposed to and did before they updated it? (This is a retorical question, but it makes me feel better to write it.)Because they fixed other HDCP bugs, and created new ones at the same time. You'd think that they would do a better job of testing, wouldn't you?

Should I choose "fixed" instead, so that everything is output at 1080i from the box? How will that make 480 stuff look?The first post explains the formats, but if you use 1080i your 480i channels will have bars on the sides and many HDTVs cannot stetch them to fill the screen. Even if you can stretch them, they may not stretch the same way as they would if they were 480i.

Also, don't worry so much about the technicals. The fact that there will be more conversions taking place, in the 8300 and then in the TV, doesn't really enter into anything if the end result looks the same to you. The only way to know is to try it and see if there is a difference, especially between 720p and 1080i. With ESPN though make sure you view something with fast motion because this is usually where differences will show up the most.

I see that people are having success using an external sata drive hooked up via the esata port on the back. I have an extra regular ol' IDE drive and external enclosure that I wanted to use as additional storage for my 8300. I tried plugging it in via the USB port on the front, since there are no USB ports on the back of the 8300. The HD was not automatically recognized. Is it possible to hook up an external HD to the USB port? Or is esata the only way to go for this purpose?

No USB, eSATA only.

Capek,

There is a whole thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=516559&page=1) (177 pages of it now) devoted to the external drive on the 8300.

Capek,

There is a whole thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=516559&page=1) (177 pages of it now) devoted to the external drive on the 8300.
Sata drive.

Dave answered my question though. Thanks Dave.

To the unknown person with the flashhing on HDMI - It's your display having issues with format conversion between different resolutions. Change your output to a fixed resolution and then the TV will no longer have to try to resync each time a channels is changed. I suggest 1080 for minimal and better conversions, since your TV will reformat both 720 and 1080 to it's native resolution of the panel (less than 5% of displays show 1280x720 without some scaling, so you might as well provide it the higher 1080 resolution and let it scale that instead - unless your display halves the 1080 resolution instead of deinterlacing it)
vegggas
I assume that you are referring to me. I would prefer that the box output the signal in the format it is supposed to be and then let my TV scale it.

My thought is that if I output a 720 signal at the fixed 1080 and then have my TV scale it from there, it is getting scaled twice, which I would like to avoid.
My quote above about using fixed resolution output was in responce to the complaint about a user having resyncing issues going blank using HDMI. The TV is what takes several moments to resync between resolutions, and causing the blanking, flashing and other visual symptoms. Using a fixed output means the TV will not resync between channels.

vegggas

Does Closed Captioning not work over HDMI?

8300 HD hooked up to TV with HDMI. Comcast Houston.

Went to Settings cc was OFF. So I turned CC on. And yes, I did click OK, as stated here in previous posts by others. And then went back into settings and confirmed CC is turned ON.

But still no CC. Any help is appreciated.

But still no CC. Any help is appreciated.Gotta ask it, forgive me: You're using the 8300's settings menus, right, not the TV's?

Not all programs include CC support. Did you try several channels? CNN Headline News is generally a good test case. Commercials are hit-and-miss; some have CC's, some don't.

I use CC's all the time via component connections. Don't have an HDMI TV to test with.

Gotta ask it, forgive me: You're using the 8300's settings menus, right, not the TV's?

Correct.


Not all programs include CC support. Did you try several channels? CNN Headline News is generally a good test case. Commercials are hit-and-miss; some have CC's, some don't.

I use CC's all the time via component connections. Don't have an HDMI TV to test with.

Yeah, tried many channels for reasonable periods of time, never saw any CC.

Try rebooting the 8300. I read in a different thread that another brand of DVR had to be rebooted to make Closed Captioning work. Good Luck!

Does Closed Captioning not work over HDMI?

8300 HD hooked up to TV with HDMI. Comcast Houston.

Went to Settings cc was OFF. So I turned CC on. And yes, I did click OK, as stated here in previous posts by others. And then went back into settings and confirmed CC is turned ON.

But still no CC. Any help is appreciated.

I have had 2 SA 8300 for 3 months now. For the last month and a half, I have lost all DVR functions for my local HD channels on both units. DVR functions work fine for SD channels and my other HD channels, just not my local HD. Have done soft boots, hard boots, and reformatted the hard drive with no success.
The units will show that they are recording a program, but it disappears from the DVR list when the show is over. If it does remain in the DVR list , when I try to play it back, the screen goes back to the DVR channel and says to select another recording.
If I try to pause a live show(or rewind), the screen goes blank. A meter appears at the bottom of the screen in RED rather than GREEN, indicating the amount of time the show has been on. The only way to get the show back on is to press play, then the live button.
Have tried 3 times to get a TWC tech out, but have been unable to be home when he shows up. The DVR functions for local HD channels worked fine when I first got the boxes. Any suggestions before I take these units back and replace them with Motorola HD DVRs?

TWC-Southern Maine
TV Living room-Vizio 42'' HD w/ HDMI cable
TV Bedroom-Sharp 36'' SD w/ Component cables

I have had 2 SA 8300 for 3 months now. For the last month and a half, I have lost all DVR functions for my local HD channels on both units.
<snip>
Any suggestions before I take these units back and replace them with Motorola HD DVRs?Have you tried calling your cableco and reporting the behavior? Maybe there's an authorization configuration issue or something else going on beyond just a problem with the box.

Have you tried calling your cableco and reporting the behavior? Maybe there's an authorization configuration issue or something else going on beyond just a problem with the box.
First thing I did was call TWC. All they did was boot the boxes and ask if it helped. Then they set an appointment with a service tech. which I haven't been able to meet at the house yet(3 separate attempts). I think its a software issue, but what do I know. I'm just a tech. for soda and fountain machines not cable boxes. Thanks for your quick response. Called again this morning. Mentioned it might be a software thing. They said signal looked good on their end and all programming that I'm supposed to be getting is authorized. Nothing else they can do and to wait for tech. to come Friday 13th(bad omen?).

Try rebooting the 8300. I read in a different thread that another brand of DVR had to be rebooted to make Closed Captioning work. Good Luck!

We intermittently use CC via HDMI, and are able to turn it on and off without rebooting or anything. I'd make sure that all your CC settings in the second menu (menu, then menu again) are set to default, and then turn CC on in the first menu as you indicated you did above. Not hitting OK there caused us to wonder what was going on until we figured out that tip, but since then it works as expected.

We intermittently use CC via HDMI, and are able to turn it on and off without rebooting or anything. I'd make sure that all your CC settings in the second menu (menu, then menu again) are set to default, and then turn CC on in the first menu as you indicated you did above. Not hitting OK there caused us to wonder what was going on until we figured out that tip, but since then it works as expected.And if that doesn't work, try some of the other CC settings in The General Settings area. Seems like a long time ago, someone had to set their Source to something other than Std CC1/Digitasl 1.

We intermittently use CC via HDMI, and are able to turn it on and off without rebooting or anything. I'd make sure that all your CC settings in the second menu (menu, then menu again) are set to default, and then turn CC on in the first menu as you indicated you did above. Not hitting OK there caused us to wonder what was going on until we figured out that tip, but since then it works as expected.

Ok, I tried all of that, made sure all at Default, etc. Still no CC. I think it may be my TV: Panasonic 50pz700u.

Ok, I tried all of that, made sure all at Default, etc. Still no CC. I think it may be my TV: Panasonic 50pz700u.I could be wrong, but I don't believe the TV enters into it when you are viewing CC through the STB. One way to find out if the HDMI though is to temporarily connect Component (disconnect HDMI) and see if you then get CC.

I've heard as of today (Jul 9th), Comcast in Houston is offering a new DVR.

Anyone have an idea of what the new model is?

I've heard as of today (Jul 9th), Comcast in Houston is offering a new DVR.

Anyone have an idea of what the new model is?Most cable companies (there are some exceptions) had to start using cable boxes (and DVRs) that used a CableCard as of July 1. In the case of Scientific Atlanta based systems, these are SA8300HDC
boxes. They are basically the same as the old box (SA8300HD) except that there is a CableCard plugged into the back. There is apparently a new version of SARA (1.90.xx.xx) that goes with it.

Ok, I tried all of that, made sure all at Default, etc. Still no CC. I think it may be my TV: Panasonic 50pz700u.

im not able to get CC either. i've been watching this topic on here to get ideas. i almost thought it was my tv too but really dont understand how the tv can effect what i'm telling the box to do. i have the 8300 connected via component. when i get home tonight i'll try again and make sure i press OK. then maybe try the different CC settings on the box.

Most cable companies (there are some exceptions) had to start using cable boxes (and DVRs) that used a CableCard as of July 1. In the case of Scientific Atlanta based systems, these are SA8300HDC
boxes. They are basically the same as the old box (SA8300HD) except that there is a CableCard plugged into the back. There is apparently a new version of SARA (1.90.xx.xx) that goes with it.

Maybe I'm just slow today, but what would be the purpose of a cable card plugged into the back of a set top box that is PROVIDED BY THE CABLE COMPANY? The box already does what the card would do. Now I could see purpose of requiring the cable company to provide cards to people who want to purchase their very own set top box, but this seems to be a waste of money.

Maybe I'm just slow today, but what would be the purpose of a cable card plugged into the back of a set top box that is PROVIDED BY THE CABLE COMPANY? The box already does what the card would do. Now I could see purpose of requiring the cable company to provide cards to people who want to purchase their very own set top box, but this seems to be a waste of money.At first look, I would agree that this mandate would seem stupid. BUT, what the FCC has been trying to do (for some time) is to get the cable industry to open up their systems to facilitate Consumer Owned Navigation Devices. They are trying to do this due to a 1996 Telecommunications Act passed into law. The first impact of this was to make CableCards available. But as cable systems moved more into an interactive mode (OnDemand, PPV, SDV, etc.) CableCards didn't hack it. The FCC reasoned that IF they forced the cable companies to take the security (which is what the CableCard does) out of the cable boxes that that would force the industry to "open up". The problem is that this mandate does not really solve any problem - but it does serve as a "warning shot". The next step is to pass regulations dictating some standardized communications methods that allows consumer owned STBs to totally integrate with cable systems.

THIRD FURTHER NOTICE OF PROPOSED RULEMAKING (http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/FCC-07-120A1.pdf)

Jimmytop,
I have had the CC go out a few times in the past. Each time I had to call my cable company and have them send a signal. The first guy I talked to about this knew that it would fix it. The folks I talked to after had never heard that just sending a signal would solve the problem.

I could be wrong, but I don't believe the TV enters into it when you are viewing CC through the STB. One way to find out if the HDMI though is to temporarily connect Component (disconnect HDMI) and see if you then get CC.

This is correct- Turning the CC on through the cable box causes the text to get inserted into the video feed that is given to your tv, so your tv just shows what it is given. I'd try hooking the cable directly up to your TV and trying to use your TV's CC to verify that a given channel has captioning. If that works, try that same channel through your box.

Jeff

Most cable companies (there are some exceptions) had to start using cable boxes (and DVRs) that used a CableCard as of July 1. In the case of Scientific Atlanta based systems, these are SA8300HDC
boxes. They are basically the same as the old box (SA8300HD) except that there is a CableCard plugged into the back. There is apparently a new version of SARA (1.90.xx.xx) that goes with it.

Then new SARA is what I'm interested in. My 8300 with 1.88.xx.xx is not 'talking' to the HDMI input on my Yamaha 2700 AVR. So I'm not getting an HDMI picture to the TV. The HDMI works fine if I direct connect to TV. My HDDVD player is playing fine thru HDMI, thru that same receiver.

Then new SARA is what I'm interested in. My 8300 with 1.88.xx.xx is not 'talking' to the HDMI input on my Yamaha 2700 AVR. So I'm not getting an HDMI picture to the TV. The HDMI works fine if I direct connect to TV. My HDDVD player is playing fine thru HDMI, thru that same receiver.I'm fairly sure that problem was taken care of (and other problems were introduced) with 1.89.xx.xx. Perhaps turning your box in for the "C" version will force the 1.90 version for you - but no guarantees.

At first look, I would agree that this mandate would seem stupid. BUT, what the FCC has been trying to do (for some time) is to get the cable industry to open up their systems to facilitate Consumer Owned Navigation Devices. They are trying to do this due to a 1996 Telecommunications Act passed into law. The first impact of this was to make CableCards available. But as cable systems moved more into an interactive mode (OnDemand, PPV, SDV, etc.) CableCards didn't hack it. The FCC reasoned that IF they forced the cable companies to take the security (which is what the CableCard does) out of the cable boxes that that would force the industry to "open up". The problem is that this mandate does not really solve any problem - but it does serve as a "warning shot". The next step is to pass regulations dictating some standardized communications methods that allows consumer owned STBs to totally integrate with cable systems.

THIRD FURTHER NOTICE OF PROPOSED RULEMAKING (http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/FCC-07-120A1.pdf)
What's new and earthshaking is push for customer owned HDTV/DVR/STBs to
work with not just Cable....but also DirecTV, Dish, AT&T U-Verse, et. al.

So when you buy an HDTV/HTPC with built-in DVR, it will work with ALL OF THE ABOVE.

Can anyone confirm that the cable card version of the SA 8300 HD requires SARA 1.90.x.x?
I would consider exchanging the SA 8300 HD (SARA 1.88.25.1) for a cable card version of the SA 8300 HD if this is correct.

I'm fairly sure that problem was taken care of (and other problems were introduced) with 1.89.xx.xx. Perhaps turning your box in for the "C" version will force the 1.90 version for you - but no guarantees.

Can anyone confirm that the cable card version of the SA 8300 HD requires SARA 1.90.x.x?
I would consider exchanging the SA 8300 HD (SARA 1.88.25.1) for a cable card version of the SA 8300 HD if this is correct.As soon as I saw the reference to 1.90.x.x I wondered how long it would be before this question was asked. :)

I am a total newbie so hope I am in the right forum area, if not please point me in to the right one.

I just got a Toshiba 42" HDTV LCD 780p last week and yesterady TWC came and replaced my DVR with the SA 8300 HDC and it looks like it is only seeing 480i on every channel incl. the HD ones. I had a better picture with my old DVR. Anyway I am trying to read all the posts here to find out how to change the pq and wondering if I can use the 8300 HD tips? I am really floundering in all this new stuff and dont want to mess things up royally. The TWC guy who put it in was no help and told me it was the first he'd installed?!?!

I also want to switch out the component cables TWC provided and replace with HDMI, I take it TWC now supports HDMI?

Am I correct that even on HD channels that not all programs are true HD?

Hope this made sense!! I am frying my brains, help ;) Thx

I am a total newbie so hope I am in the right forum area, if not please point me in to the right one.

I just got a Toshiba 42" HDTV LCD 780p last week and yesterady TWC came and replaced my DVR with the SA 8300 HDC and it looks like it is only seeing 480i on every channel incl. the HD ones. I had a better picture with my old DVR. Anyway I am trying to read all the posts here to find out how to change the pq and wondering if I can use the 8300 HD tips? I am really floundering in all this new stuff and dont want to mess things up royally. The TWC guy who put it in was no help and told me it was the first he'd installed?!?!

I also want to switch out the component cables TWC provided and replace with HDMI, I take it TWC now supports HDMI?

Am I correct that even on HD channels that not all programs are true HD?

Hope this made sense!! I am frying my brains, help ;) Thx

Trust me, the pros will jump in later, but maybe (??) I can help a little.

Sounds like the installer set everything to 480i.

Go to an earlier post and go to the link for instructions....go to:

Setup
Setup Wizard. UG-3 Instructions for Advanced Setup Wizard to choose TV type and resolutions, done after the box has received it's initial download from your cableco.

* Using Power button on unit (not remote), turn off power, then press both GUIDE/INFO at same time.
* Choose Easy or Advanced setup - Easy selects 1080i output only - Advanced provides options for TV type (4x3 or 16x9) and user selected outputs.
* Follow instructions on the screen. Read instructions carefully. If screen goes blank, it is trying to display a resolution not supported by TV - disable resolution.


Also, I think some folks have serious problems with HDMI....some don't. (I'm TW in WNY and all works OK)

Also, not all HD stations show HD programs.

Again, the real experts can help even more.....

Also, I think some folks have serious problems with HDMI....some don't. (I'm TW in WNY and all works OK)

Also, not all HD stations show HD programs.

Again, the real experts can help even more.....I think that you covered it pretty well. I should point out that HDMI issues seem to vary a lot with the particular display. So if someone in Buffalo has a problem with a Vizio, someone else with a Samsung may not. There also have been issues with HDMI switching AV Receivers. Some work well, others do not. And then, every now and then the cable company changes the software and what used to work, does not, and things that didn't work before, do work.

Go figure. :confused:

* Using Power button on unit (not remote), turn off power, then press both GUIDE/INFO at same time.
* Choose Easy or Advanced setup - Easy selects 1080i output only - Advanced provides options for TV type (4x3 or 16x9) and user selected outputs.
* Follow instructions on the screen. Read instructions carefully. If screen goes blank, it is trying to display a resolution not supported by TV - disable resolution.





Thank you thank you for helping!

But nothing happens when I press GUIDE/INFO together. I have the power button off and the TV on and nada!!! Help!! This is becoming a nightmare, can TWC turn off this set up feature???

You are in the right area. This thread covers both the SA 8300 HD and the cable card version SA 8300 HDC. It was decided that there was not enough difference between the two to require a new thread. What version of SARA do you have? I hope the other posters have answered your questions. Click on the SARA link in my signature to go to the first post with Tips and Tricks.
You may want to get everything working with the component cables before trying HDMI, that way you can always go back to using the component cables if there is a problem with HDMI.

I am a total newbie so hope I am in the right forum area, if not please point me in to the right one.

I just got a Toshiba 42" HDTV LCD 780p last week and yesterady TWC came and replaced my DVR with the SA 8300 HDC and it looks like it is only seeing 480i on every channel incl. the HD ones. I had a better picture with my old DVR. Anyway I am trying to read all the posts here to find out how to change the pq and wondering if I can use the 8300 HD tips? I am really floundering in all this new stuff and dont want to mess things up royally. The TWC guy who put it in was no help and told me it was the first he'd installed?!?!

I also want to switch out the component cables TWC provided and replace with HDMI, I take it TWC now supports HDMI?

Am I correct that even on HD channels that not all programs are true HD?

Hope this made sense!! I am frying my brains, help ;) Thx

Thank yo RussB, yep I am sticking with the components cable for now, looks like HDMI might be too much for me LOL, just wish I could get what I have right!! Can't even get into setup. guess I will have to call TWC but will they be any help?

I have the Passport version I think.

Thank yo RussB, yep I am sticking with the components cable for now, looks like HDMI might be too much for me LOL, just wish I could get what I have right!! Can't even get into setup. guess I will have to call TWC but will they be any help?

I have the Passport version I think.

I'd hope TW can tell you if you have SARA or Passport, but you can also look at the link in the post above your last one....the program guide screens look completely different between the 2!

What are the new features and bug fixes in 1.90.x.x?
And should they be added to the first post?

As soon as I saw the reference to 1.90.x.x I wondered how long it would be before this question was asked. :)

What are the new features and bug fixes in 1.90.x.x?
And should they be added to the first post?I'd add them if I had them. vegggas?????

From what he posted a while back though, it didn't sound like there were any changes other than CC support.

Also, is it (1.90.xx.xx) being loaded just on CC boxes, or are some systems rolling it out system wide? From what I've heard so for, it appears not (only being loaded on CC boxes).

Big EDIT: Found my firmware, lol.

ROM: 1.89.20.1

Is this updated? I just got my new 8300HD 3 days ago.

Big EDIT: Found my firmware, lol.

ROM: 1.89.20.1

Is this updated? I just got my new 8300HD 3 days ago.

You don't say who your provider is, and you don't have your location in your profile, but that is the version I have with Cablevision and it is new. It does have a bug of dropping some items from the scheduled recordings list after a reboot, but otherwise works fine.

Big EDIT: Found my firmware, lol.

ROM: 1.89.20.1

Is this updated? I just got my new 8300HD 3 days ago.Just so you know, when you connect the 8300 to your cable system, it downloads their latest software. If they upgrade, they "push" the upgrade to your 8300, usually late at night. There is nothing you have to do.

I have Comcast and SA8300HD DVR. I don't know the release, but I have 4 FF speeds and can start watching a show from the start while it is recording, which I think is the latest release we've gotten in Harford County MD.

I wanted to change the retention of a recorded program from 14 days to "until I erase". I checked the manual and it said there would be a recorded program option to change retention but there wasn't. I also checked the tips in the front of this thread and didn't find anything.

Is this a feature just not supported in Comcast's version of 8300HD software?

I'm sorry if this is somewhere in the 4000 entries in this thread. I'm not sure even what to search under.

Thanks,

Rich N.

To change the save time of a previous recording, select it from your list and there is an option to change save time. To change the default for future new recordings to be set up go the the DVR menu and select "B" preferences. To change the save time for something scheduled but not recorded, edit it from your scheduled recording list.

You don't say who your provider is, and you don't have your location in your profile, but that is the version I have with Cablevision and it is new. It does have a bug of dropping some items from the scheduled recordings list after a reboot, but otherwise works fine.

Yes, Cablevision here in northern NJ just switched to this 1.89.20.1 version. For those that had the problem, it seems to have fixed the HDCP handshaking problem with the Sony SXRD TVs (which causes you to see static after switching stations).

Unfortunately, it hasn't fixed the problem that causes it to get into a mode now and then where the picture flickers after you've switched to a high-def channel. Luckily this one is reasonably rare and easily fixed by switching to a low-def channel then back again.

I'm still waiting to see what new bugs they added (they always seem to deliver new ones).

To change the save time of a previous recording, select it from your list and there is an option to change save time. To change the default for future new recordings to be set up go the the DVR menu and select "B" preferences. To change the save time for something scheduled but not recorded, edit it from your scheduled recording list.

Thanks, but the problem is on my Comcast system there is no such option.

Rich N.

... the problem is on my Comcast system there is no such option.The option should be there. I know I have been frustrated at times with trying to change retention times, and I was surprised to find that if I were watching a recorded program, or had just recently been watching it, the option was not there.

I found if I selected and played part of another program, then brought up the "recorded" list and located the program I was interested in, the option was available -- I think it was generally "up" in the menu from where it started but it should be there somewhere if you scroll. However, the option is definitely *not* present if you are watching the program and pause it.

You don't say who your provider is, and you don't have your location in your profile, but that is the version I have with Cablevision and it is new. It does have a bug of dropping some items from the scheduled recordings list after a reboot, but otherwise works fine.
Sorry for not giving info. I had it in my original post but then erased it to edit. I'm in Paramus, NJ - Cablevision. I tried searched the database for hard drives that work with this version but not many are up... anyone have any they know work for sure with this firmware?

I wanted to change the retention of a recorded program from 14 days to "until I erase". I checked the manual and it said there would be a recorded program option to change retention but there wasn't.I assume you're using SARA. For whatever silly reason, when you're actually watching the program you want to edit, you won't get the option to change the save time.

To work around, select some other program from your list of recorded programs, and start playing it back. Then, go back to your list of recorded programs, highlight the program whose save time you want to change, and select it. You should then see the option to change the save time.

I've been lurking and reading for about a year now. Thanks to all of the folks for providing some valuable info on this piece of equipment. I had a basic question that perhaps DoubleDAZ or someone else can chime in on. When saving HD content, such as any one of the PlanetEarth series (1080i/1:33/5.1), what is the default bitrate and type/number of audio channels that the 8300HD saves the content? I haven't seen that information spelled out and was curious if I'm giving up something by waiting to see the saved file v. the live feed.

Thanks!

TTx

I've been lurking and reading for about a year now. Thanks to all of the folks for providing some valuable info on this piece of equipment. I had a basic question that perhaps DoubleDAZ or someone else can chime in on. When saving HD content, such as any one of the PlanetEarth series (1080i/1:33/5.1), what is the default bitrate and type/number of audio channels that the 8300HD saves the content? I haven't seen that information spelled out and was curious if I'm giving up something by waiting to see the saved file v. the live feed.

Thanks!

TTxThe hard drive records EXACTLY the bit rate coming in. So whatever you see "live" is (almost*) what gets recorded and played back later. In fact, some of us have used a method to determine the average bitrate by noting the total file size, deleting a program and noting the change in file size. Many HD channels in my are are averaging 18Mbps/sec.

*The "Almost" part. There are times when the data transfers inside the 8300HD can't quite keep up with the program. For example, if you are recording two HD programs and watching a third, previously recorded, HD program. This will result in drop-outs (stuttering & break up of the picture).

There is no "default"....and the SA8300HD doesn't change the data stream.
As the MPEG2 data stream comes in, it dumps it into a file.
On replay, it outputs video and digital audio the same way it came in.
If it came in as 5.1, it will be output as 5.1.

Bitrate is a variable, usually set by the originator of the material.
Most OTA, SAT and Cable systems use Statistical Multiplexers (STATMUX)
when they combine multiple programs on the same carrier, whether
ATSC, SAT QPSK or Cable QAM.....this can reduce the average bitrate as
"busy" programs steal bits from less "busy" programs.

Thanks, davehancock & holl_ands. I hoped that was the case, but it's always nice to have a definitive.

TTx

I have had 2 SA 8300 for 3 months now. For the last month and a half, I have lost all DVR functions for my local HD channels on both units. DVR functions work fine for SD channels and my other HD channels, just not my local HD. Have done soft boots, hard boots, and reformatted the hard drive with no success.
Any suggestions before I take these units back and replace them with Motorola HD DVRs?

TWC-Southern Maine
TV Living room-Vizio 42'' HD w/ HDMI cable
TV Bedroom-Sharp 36'' SD w/ Component cables

TWC tech came out today and replaced my boxes with new SA 8300HDC boxes. All my DVR issues have been resolved.

Apparently my unit will delete nearly all scheduled recordings when it runs out of disk space during a recording. Anyone else experience this? I believe I'm running the latest firmware based on the feature descriptions.

Last night I realized the unit had run out of space so I deleted a few things. Then an hour ago I decided to look at the scheduled recordings list and all but two shows had had their schedules erased.

I'm with Rogers cable.

Apparently my unit will delete nearly all scheduled recordings when it runs out of disk space during a recording. Anyone else experience this?That's not how it works for me. Running 1.88.25.1, if I run out of room, it just skips scheduled recordings until I free up some space. Then it picks right back up again, recording everything I had previously programmed.

My current problem is as follows: I have the 8300HD and a 250gb external Cavalry hard drive. The external drive has been working well since April. Now it appears that the STB thinks it only has three hours of recording space left. It reports only 25% used. If I disconnect the external drive, it reports 6% used, as almost all of my programs are on the external drive. With the external drive disconnected, it does not find 4 of the 6 programs recorded. If I re-connect the drive, and hard re-boot, then all programs can be watched. However, it stops recording at about three hours (3:47 and then 3:16). I have done numerous hard re-boots, and have tried to follow the directions to defrag (but I don't think that worked).

What should be my next steps? Your help, as always is appreciated.

After reading through 120 pages I failed to see my problem addressed.
Cableco: Atlantic Broadband
Location: Uniontown, Pa 15401
SARA Ver. :1.88.24.2
Television: Samsung HL-T6189s(LED model)

My problem. If I connect via HDMI then go into general settings there is supposed to be an option for AUDIO: Digital Out. I do not have that option. I have been trying to explain this to the cableco but no one seems to know what I am talking about. A few do, and state they will check into it and get back. But, you guessed it no one has. I then have to go through the call in nightmare roulette wheel again.
I want to be sure if this is a problem caused by the software, or is it a defective box? I am currently hooked up via component so I can get DD out of my Pioneer receiver. But I prefer HDMI. It has a better picture, and tried it for a week, recording etc. to make sure there would be no problems using it. There wasn't. All the recorded programs play back with great picture. Is this a problem that can be fixed via a software upgrade from the cableco, or is it a hardware problem? I want to have a better understanding of my problem just in case I finally get someone from the cableco that actually understands/cares about what my complaint is. Any info, help would be appreciated.
Jim

My current problem is as follows: I have the 8300HD and a 250gb external Cavalry hard drive. The external drive has been working well since April. Now it appears that the STB thinks it only has three hours of recording space left. It reports only 25% used. If I disconnect the external drive, it reports 6% used, as almost all of my programs are on the external drive. With the external drive disconnected, it does not find 4 of the 6 programs recorded. If I re-connect the drive, and hard re-boot, then all programs can be watched. However, it stops recording at about three hours (3:47 and then 3:16). I have done numerous hard re-boots, and have tried to follow the directions to defrag (but I don't think that worked).

What should be my next steps? Your help, as always is appreciated.
I would disconnect the Cavalry HDD from the STB and connect it to your home PC. Run a diagnostics program and see what you've got to work with. A defrag might be in order. The defrag you ran from the STB might have only addressed the internal HDD. After the defrag from your PC, run the diagnostics again to see if you've gained any ground. If it looks usable, reconnect it to your STB, make sure the external HDD is powered on and do a soft reboot of the STB (simultaneously hold down Ch +/Ch - and press Info button). Once the clock reappears on the front of the STB, turn it on and check capacity. Hope this helps.

TTx

I would disconnect the Cavalry HDD from the STB and connect it to your home PC. Run a diagnostics program and see what you've got to work with. A defrag might be in order. The defrag you ran from the STB might have only addressed the internal HDD. After the defrag from your PC, run the diagnostics again to see if you've gained any ground. If it looks usable, reconnect it to your STB, make sure the external HDD is powered on and do a soft reboot of the STB (simultaneously hold down Ch +/Ch - and press Info button). Once the clock reappears on the front of the STB, turn it on and check capacity. Hope this helps.

TTx

He isn't going to be able to do any sort of defrag - the drive won't even be recognized as being formatted by the PC. He *could* format the drive and then check for low level errors. Personally I would just keep the 250 and watch everything on it, then buy another drive for the SA8300 and use the 250 with a PC if it still works...

xnappo

Picked up my SA 8300 last week and haven't been able to figure these 2 questions out yet. I've tried searching this thread but it's too big to narrow it down. :)

I want to be able to have the resolution switch between SD (480i) and HD (1080i) when I'm watching that content. Right now it's set to 1080i all the time. I've tried going into the settings and adjusting the Picture Format and I've tried changing each setting but it doesn't seem to make a difference. I think it's upconverting SD to HD and it looks REALLY bad. Is there anything I can do to the settings that I'm just missing?

I'm also setting up my Harmony 880 remote and don't see a skip 30 sec ahead option. Is there one or just FF? I see it has a skip back feature.

I'm also setting up my Harmony 880 remote and don't see a skip 30 sec ahead option. Is there one or just FF? I see it has a skip back feature.Yup, just a skip back; no skip fwd. Sorry.

I'll let someone more familiar with the resolution setup answer your other question.

Picked up my SA 8300 last week and haven't been able to figure these 2 questions out yet. I've tried searching this thread but it's too big to narrow it down. :)

I want to be able to have the resolution switch between SD (480i) and HD (1080i) when I'm watching that content. Right now it's set to 1080i all the time. I've tried going into the settings and adjusting the Picture Format and I've tried changing each setting but it doesn't seem to make a difference. I think it's upconverting SD to HD and it looks REALLY bad. Is there anything I can do to the settings that I'm just missing?

I'm also setting up my Harmony 880 remote and don't see a skip 30 sec ahead option. Is there one or just FF? I see it has a skip back feature.
did you set up your hd wizard settings for sd 480i/hd720p-1080i yet?... if not than that could be your problem...its in the manual/info book you turn off the 8300 (& the tv is on) on the front panel press guide & info @ the same time then follow the instructions for hd & sd & 16:9 & 4:3 & than after all your settings are inputted... you press power on the 8300 & your good to go... also in the setting (regular setting menu) I use the auto/hdmi setting.

yanks,

You might also want to read through the first post in this thread.

Cheers, Dave

After reading through 120 pages I failed to see my problem addressed.
Cableco: Atlantic Broadband
Location: Uniontown, Pa 15401
SARA Ver. :1.88.24.2
Television: Samsung HL-T6189s(LED model)

My problem. If I connect via HDMI then go into general settings there is supposed to be an option for AUDIO: Digital Out. I do not have that option. I have been trying to explain this to the cableco but no one seems to know what I am talking about. A few do, and state they will check into it and get back. But, you guessed it no one has. I then have to go through the call in nightmare roulette wheel again.
I want to be sure if this is a problem caused by the software, or is it a defective box? I am currently hooked up via component so I can get DD out of my Pioneer receiver. But I prefer HDMI. It has a better picture, and tried it for a week, recording etc. to make sure there would be no problems using it. There wasn't. All the recorded programs play back with great picture. Is this a problem that can be fixed via a software upgrade from the cableco, or is it a hardware problem? I want to have a better understanding of my problem just in case I finally get someone from the cableco that actually understands/cares about what my complaint is. Any info, help would be appreciated.
Jim

The option should be there. I say "should" because anything is possible with some cable companies. On all the ones I've seen, the Digital Out option is the 3rd option in the list (press the menu button, then go down twice).

Good luck on getting the cable company to "care" unless you have alternatives (FIOS, etc).

It's infrequent, but it seems that the 8300 will just skip a scheduled recording for no apparent reason. Once it was an episode that was to be on a few minutes after it's usual time. Twice it didn't record Brothers and Sisters in the last month or so. I've been relegated to catching the lost episodes on the 'net. Doesn't it have something to do when the start time is slightly different? I think I had B & S set to anytime any day.

Picked up my SA 8300 last week and haven't been able to figure these 2 questions out yet. I've tried searching this thread but it's too big to narrow it down. :)

I want to be able to have the resolution switch between SD (480i) and HD (1080i) when I'm watching that content. Right now it's set to 1080i all the time. I've tried going into the settings and adjusting the Picture Format and I've tried changing each setting but it doesn't seem to make a difference. I think it's upconverting SD to HD and it looks REALLY bad. Is there anything I can do to the settings that I'm just missing?


I think you'll be disappointed with the 480i output. I initially had mine setup that way and the results are much better when set to output everything to 1080i. This seems to be true for the HDMI and Component output.

It's infrequent, but it seems that the 8300 will just skip a scheduled recording for no apparent reason. Once it was an episode that was to be on a few minutes after it's usual time. Twice it didn't record Brothers and Sisters in the last month or so. I've been relegated to catching the lost episodes on the 'net. Doesn't it have something to do when the start time is slightly different? I think I had B & S set to anytime any day.Any time, any day should do just that. This time slot, any day won't catch changes in start/end times if they differ from those originally used to schedule the recording. New first run will also work, but I assume you are trying to record reruns. The best thing to do is check each week just to make sure and double check to see if it is any day, any time.

Which cable compnay do you have? Which SARA version do you have? Where are you located? This info may make it easier for people to answer some of your questions. It can be included in your profile and/or signature. I don't think the recording method is the problem. Are the programs still in the list of Scheduled Recordings? I was having this problem once or twice a month before I got SARA 1.88.25.1, but since then it hasn't happened. Have you tried a Hard Reboot? Click on SARA in my signature, for instructions on how to do a Hard Reboot.

It's infrequent, but it seems that the 8300 will just skip a scheduled recording for no apparent reason. Once it was an episode that was to be on a few minutes after it's usual time. Twice it didn't record Brothers and Sisters in the last month or so. I've been relegated to catching the lost episodes on the 'net. Doesn't it have something to do when the start time is slightly different? I think I had B & S set to anytime any day.

I am having a problem with my 8300HD. Starting yesterday, after unplugging the 8300HD to reboot it (connecting an external drive), the drive has not been able to reboot itself. The clock does not come on or anything. After waiting for about 30 minutes, I pushed the power button and got a blue screen with "Scientific Atlanta" on it. After another minute, I get the message "Advanced Services Not Available" and my standard, basic cable comes through. I have tried doing a reboot, hard reboot, forced reboot, and even a "last resort" (as described in the the first page of this thread) but was unable to get the 8300HD to boot back up. Finally, I gave up and exchanged the STB for a new one. You'd think all problems would be solved, but nope, the EXACT same thing happens with this NEW box! I called the tech people at TW (for about the 4th time now) and they said that it must be a "digital signal problem" and that I would have to wait for a tech to come out tomorrow, giving me an "all-day" appointment. By now I am very frustrated. I did NOT want to turn in my previous box if it was not the box's problem because I did not want to lose all I had on it. After learning that the problem may not lie in the box itself, I went back to the TW store to try and get my old one back. The man would not let me retrieve it, saying it was already "in the buffer," or something to that effect, and that it could not be given back to me. I literally had just turned the box in to them 30 minutes earlier so I did not see the problem with just handing it back to me. Now I lost everything on that box all for nothing, as this new box produces the same problem. I am really getting fed up with TW and I don't want to have to deal with them anymore. As far as this tech coming out, I am not all too optimistic that they will be able to do something I won't have figured out myself. Half the time I have to tell these techs how to correctly do something. Is there anyone who is familiar with a situation like mine and might be able to direct me on how to rectify it? I would be so greatful to anyone who can point me in the direction to go about fixing this problem. Looking forward to any response. Thanks in advance.

I'm having the exact same problem in Houston, Texas with my SA 8300HD(Comcast with SARA 1.88.25.1). Did you find a solution to this problem?
My SA 8300HD has been rebooting about once every-other day and "Advanced Services" are "Not Available" for 5 minutes to 2 hours.
Thanks...

Which cable compnay do you have? Which SARA version do you have? Where are you located? This info may make it easier for people to answer some of your questions. It can be included in your profile and/or signature. I don't think the recording method is the problem. Are the programs still in the list of Scheduled Recordings? I was having this problem once or twice a month before I got SARA 1.88.25.1, but since then it hasn't happened. Have you tried a Hard Reboot? Click on SARA in my signature, for instructions on how to do a Hard Reboot.

Latest SARA, 1.89.20. Charter in Riverside, CA.

No I haven't tried to do anything. Future programs still scheduled. I just noticed another program was missed last night. I'll try a Hard reboot, but do you really think an intermittent problem would be resolved by that?

This problem hasn't bothered me much because I'm just watching some reruns that obviously didn't interest me enough to watch during the regular season. Now come next season and I miss a 24 episode, I'm going to damned pissed! So I guess I better get this problem fixed.

Any time, any day should do just that. This time slot, any day won't catch changes in start/end times if they differ from those originally used to schedule the recording. New first run will also work, but I assume you are trying to record reruns. The best thing to do is check each week just to make sure and double check to see if it is any day, any time.

Yep, I double checked and I had it set for any day, any time. Same glitch last night for CSI Miami. Just noticed that it didn't record and I had it set to any day, any time. It just flat screwed up. Hmm, maybe my 8300 doesn't like to work between 10 and 11pm. :)

Doing a Hard Reboot may delay it for a while but it probably will still happen. My question was if the episode that was missed was still in the list of Scheduled Recordings. This would indicate the DVR didn't try to record it for some reason.

Latest SARA, 1.89.20. Charter in Riverside, CA.

No I haven't tried to do anything. Future programs still scheduled. I just noticed another program was missed last night. I'll try a Hard reboot, but do you really think an intermittent problem would be resolved by that?

This problem hasn't bothered me much because I'm just watching some reruns that obviously didn't interest me enough to watch during the regular season. Now come next season and I miss a 24 episode, I'm going to damned pissed! So I guess I better get this problem fixed.

What else was scheduled for that time period?
Using the options other than first run, can create a placeholder for shows up to the point they record, causing a conflict if there are two other shows that could be in the same timespace which is usually caused by user padding overflowing into the next timeslot causing another program not to record.
I just left the home of a friend on the East coast who complained of the same exact thing happening "all the time" and how lousy this POS was. When we looked at his scheduled recordings, he had maually set every recording to have a 3 minute buffer before and after each program, eliminating the timeslot before, during and after the primary show.
Here is an example. He recorded a single 8:00 PM show, but added a buffer to record from 7:57 to 9:03, and another program from 8:27 to 9:03. He was mad because it didn't record either of his two shows set for 9:00 PM (actually 8:57 to 10:03), but I had to explain and show that BOTH of his tuners were still in use recording exactly what he told it to until 9:03, so when 8:57 rolled around, it had to cancel both of those recordings because of conflicts and the tuners already in use.
My wording may be off cause I'm tired, but hopefully you get the point.

vegggas

vegggas,

That is so funny. I don't suppose your friend had Tivo at one time?

Yes, he used to have a DirecTivo.
Ironically, he was padding everything because of a bad Tivo habit, where his padding of one program would would actually cut off his programming on other recordings, making him pad even more. I showed him how to highlight the program in the guide and just let it record and it's been working fine for a week.
Square pegs, round holes. People keep trying to modify the basic function of the 8300 to make it act like the Tivo, and are getting upset when it doesn't work. You don't get an automatic transmission and drive it like a maual do you?. I once went from a column shift truck to an automatic car and proceeded to rip off the windshield control stalk (same place as the column shifter that I used to slam down) within the first 48 hours. :o And who hasn't ever slammed on the brake pedal after using a clutch for several years ;)
I learned to follow the designs after those types of mistakes, but the habits were hard to break at first.

vegggas

I think you'll be disappointed with the 480i output. I initially had mine setup that way and the results are much better when set to output everything to 1080i. This seems to be true for the HDMI and Component output.

This depends on your TV. If your TV is worse than the 8300, its pretty bad. My TV has decent (not great) standard def processing and its a lot better than the 8300.

Is there a max size for the external eSATA drive for the 8300HD? I am looking at 500GB and possibly 750GB.

Also, is there a way to have duplicate drives in case one drive fails I will still be able to keep my recorded movies?

I also am assuming that if my 8300HD fails and I need another one from Comcast, I will no longer be able to view the programs stored on the external drive, since I believe these are "mapped" to each specific STB and cannot be interchanged.

Can someone help clarify this?

It would be nice if I could switch my eSATA drive between two 8300HD boxes depending on where I wanted to watch my recorded program. I am assuming that since my internal 8300HD is almost full (90%), all future programs would be recorded onto the eSATA drive. Is this correct?

Any insight is preferred. What is the best drive to get for use with the 8300HD? Is there a way to cascade multiple eSATA drives incase my 500GB gets full?

TIA. Steve

Is there a max size for the external eSATA drive for the 8300HD? I am looking at 500GB and possibly 750GB.People (including me) used to think that 300GB was the upper limit, but if you check Xnappo's database I suspect that you will find several 500GBs that work well - perhaps even 750GB.

Also, is there a way to have duplicate drives in case one drive fails I will still be able to keep my recorded movies?Not that I know of. The external drive concept was not intended for use as an archive.

I also am assuming that if my 8300HD fails and I need another one from Comcast, I will no longer be able to view the programs stored on the external drive, since I believe these are "mapped" to each specific STB and cannot be interchanged.Correct (I haven't heard the "mapped" phrase used in this context - but it is a good description.

Can someone help clarify this?Hope I did. :)

It would be nice if I could switch my eSATA drive between two 8300HD boxes depending on where I wanted to watch my recorded program. I am assuming that since my internal 8300HD is almost full (90%), all future programs would be recorded onto the eSATA drive. Is this correct? Yes - until the external drive gets to 90%.

Any insight is preferred. What is the best drive to get for use with the 8300HD? Is there a way to cascade multiple eSATA drives incase my 500GB gets full?Again, check Xnappo's database. Can't cascade multiple drives, though there had been some discussion here about "switching" drives. You'd need to search this thread for more info on that one.

Dave,

Thanks for the quick feedback. I wish I could switch external drives between 8300HD in my family room and the 8300HD in my HT, but I did not think that would work. Now, i am just going to have to duplicate my setup in both places.

Though, I don't see a good reason why they should not allow it. If you are going to have an external drive capability, then SA must have envisioned their user's "archiving" specific shows that they want to keep for longer periods.

I guess I should get the largest drive possible.

Though, I don't see a good reason why they should not allow it. If you are going to have an external drive capability, then SA must have envisioned their user's "archiving" specific shows that they want to keep for longer periods.I believe that the basic reason that SA added the external drive was that they felt that for many users that 20Hrs of HD recording time would just not be enough - particularly compared to the SD units. But, keep in mind, that the US cable companies have discouraged use of the external drives.

I guess I should get the largest drive possible.Yes, but stick to drives in Xnappo's database.

I wish I could switch external drives between 8300HD in my family room and the 8300HD in my HT, but I did not think that would work. ... Though, I don't see a good reason why they should not allow it.Many stupid decisions have been made in the name of Digital Rights Management (or "DRM"). After what happened with MP3s and how easy it became for every kid and their grandmothers to share their music willy-nilly with thousands of their closest friends, the video industry has been pretty proactive in trying to restrict the average joe's ability to create high-quality digital video files that are easy to share.

I think the relatively extreme measures implemented by SA's DVRs (i..e, using a non-standard filesystem that's incompatible with Linux/Mac/Windows filesystems, plus encrypting content so that playback is limited to only the specific DVR box that originally recorded it) are simply a reflection of today's relatively oppressive video DRM environment.

Many stupid decisions have been made in the name of Digital Rights Management (or "DRM"). After what happened with MP3s and how easy it became for every kid and their grandmothers to share their music willy-nilly with thousands of their closest friends, the video industry has been pretty proactive in trying to restrict the average joe's ability to create high-quality digital video files that are easy to share.

I think the relatively extreme measures implemented by SA's DVRs (i..e, using a non-standard filesystem that's incompatible with Linux/Mac/Windows filesystems, plus encrypting content so that playback is limited to only the specific DVR box that originally recorded it) are simply a reflection of today's relatively oppressive video DRM environment.

Exactly.

I think the relatively extreme measures implemented by SA's DVRs (i..e, using a non-standard filesystem that's incompatible with Linux/Mac/Windows filesystems, plus encrypting content so that playback is limited to only the specific DVR box that originally recorded it) are simply a reflection of today's relatively oppressive video DRM environment.But, the concept of the DVR is for time shifting - NOT archiving. If you want to archive , buy a DVHS recorder. The choice of the file system should be based STRICTLY on the file system's ability to perform the desired function.

As for DRM: yes, they are living in a DRM environment, and therefore have to comply.

What else was scheduled for that time period?
Using the options other than first run, can create a placeholder for shows up to the point they record, causing a conflict if there are two other shows that could be in the same timespace which is usually caused by user padding overflowing into the next timeslot causing another program not to record.
I just left the home of a friend on the East coast who complained of the same exact thing happening "all the time" and how lousy this POS was. When we looked at his scheduled recordings, he had maually set every recording to have a 3 minute buffer before and after each program, eliminating the timeslot before, during and after the primary show.
Here is an example. He recorded a single 8:00 PM show, but added a buffer to record from 7:57 to 9:03, and another program from 8:27 to 9:03. He was mad because it didn't record either of his two shows set for 9:00 PM (actually 8:57 to 10:03), but I had to explain and show that BOTH of his tuners were still in use recording exactly what he told it to until 9:03, so when 8:57 rolled around, it had to cancel both of those recordings because of conflicts and the tuners already in use.
My wording may be off cause I'm tired, but hopefully you get the point.

vegggas

That wasn't my problem; I'm not super savvy, but I'm not that helpless. I didn't do any manual recording stuff. One of the missed shows was actually one minute less than an hour, so no overlap issues I don't think. The last show missed was the ONLY scheduled show for the time slot. I'll do the hard reboot and hope it works, but I'm not really confident.

But, the concept of the DVR is for time shifting - NOT archiving. If you want to archive , buy a DVHS recorder. The choice of the file system should be based STRICTLY on the file system's ability to perform the desired function.

As for DRM: yes, they are living in a DRM environment, and therefore have to comply.

While the original concept of the DVR was for time shifting, there is no reason that other uses can't evolve. That happens in technology all the time. A more reasonable solution would be to limit the number of copies that can be made of the recording. But, I suppose such a procedure would be quickly hacked.

While the original concept of the DVR was for time shifting, there is no reason that other uses can't evolve. That happens in technology all the time. A more reasonable solution would be to limit the number of copies that can be made of the recording. But, I suppose such a procedure would be quickly hacked.
Yes, but still the PRIMARY goal in selecting a file system was clearly for optimum time-shift operation. THAT was their goal.

Incidentally, the hardware also included a Firewire port - so the designers were looking at additional uses. It has been the cable companies who have controlled the enabling of that port.

.....I wish I could switch external drives between 8300HD in my family room and the 8300HD in my HT, but I did not think that would work. Now, i am just going to have to duplicate my setup in both places.

Though, I don't see a good reason why they should not allow it. If you are going to have an external drive capability, then SA must have envisioned their user's "archiving" specific shows that they want to keep for longer periods.The current architecture does not lend itself to moving the external drive (with it's recorded programs) from one box to another as the index, of what has been recorded and where, is stored on the internal drive.

When the external drive is disconnected, programs recorded on it still show up in the List screen, but cannot be played.

Anything would be possible with a change in the architecture, but don't hold your breath.

If you have two 8300HD's and are getting an external drive it would be interesting to find out what happens when it is moved from one unit to another, e.g., will the second one want to perform a format, or will recorded programs be overridden.

unforunatley the DVHS option never worked on the 8300HDDVR and neither will swapping drives to a different 8300 It will say this device is not functioning properly or it will ask to format it.

I've owned a DirecTivo for about 7 years and just got an Scientific Atlanta 8300HDC DVR from Time Warner to use with my new HDTV.

When I leave the SA8300 DVR on the same channel all day, and then go to rewind it, the memory buffer is empty (the status bar is all red). If I go to rewind it 5 minutes later, it'll let me rewind it 5 minutes. It seems like the buffer is triggered to remember only at certain times.

Also, I noticed that when you change channels the regular way you lose the buffer, but when you change channels with PIP you keep the buffer SOMETIMES. I would like to use the PIP feature to change channels and still maintain the buffer on the previous channel, but I can't figure out why it only saves the buffer SOMETIMES, but not always.

Would someone please explain how the memory buffer works or post a link on this topic?

I understand the confusion, I had PASSPORT for about three years before SARA -- it used the buffer differently -- but sorry, I have not had much time to muck about with learning this one ...

Checklist: Read first post? Verified software and checked version? Especially for 8300HDC who may have Navigator... Used thread search in upper right of thread or Google "buffer 8300 site:avsforum.com" ? Posted version, cable-company, and location to provide context?v/r,
C-F

CF,

Sorry, but I don't know what a PASSPORT or a SARA is.

Yes, I read the first the post in this thread, but I didn't see anything on the topic.

How do I "verify software and checked version?" I suspect it's the newest software because the box was just installed about 2 weeks ago.

What is Navigator?

I searched this thread for "buffer" and came up with 125 hits. I read through many of them (can't say I read through all of them yet) but I didn't see anything on point.

I'm looking for an overview of how the buffer works.

Not sure what you mean by "version." My cable company is Time Warner and I'm in Lakewood, OH (Cleveland area).

Thanks, David

CF,

Sorry, but I don't know what a PASSPORT or a SARA is.

Yes, I read the first the post in this thread, but I didn't see anything on the topic.Er, did you see this part, about 15 lines into the first post?

Interactive Program Guide Images. Useful for determing which software is being used:

* Image of SARA IPG (http://gallery.avsforum.com/data/508/medium/sara_guide.JPG)
* Image of Passport IPG (http://gallery.avsforum.com/data/508/medium/passport_guide.JPG)If you decide you have a Passport box, this is the wrong place to be asking your questions. You should be here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?threadid=453804), instead.

How do I "verify software and checked version?" I suspect it's the newest software because the box was just installed about 2 weeks ago.Software version varies by cableco and region. Generally, all boxes of the same model in a given cableco market use the same software version.

Again, the first post tells you how to figure out what version of SARA you're running:Diagnostics
Diagnostic Mode. There are two ways to enter Diagnostic Mode:

* Press and hold Select on front of unit until Mail light starts to flash, then press INFO.
* Press and hold Pause on remote until Mail light starts to flash (around 10-15 seconds), then press Page Up (-). On some remotes, Page (+) might need to be used instead.
...
Finding SARA Software Version. Enter Diagnostic Mode (see above item) and scroll through screens until you find one entitled "Software Versions". Version number will be in a format similar to 1.85.14.3. Also, there are a number of different naming conventions being used and only one is really accurate in sense that PTV OS version number can differentiate SARA versions across platforms. For example, both SA8000HD and SA8300HD run SARA 1.89.18.1. However, SA8000HD runs PTV OS 6.12.18.1 whereas SA8300HD runs PTV OS 6.14.81.1. This probably doesn't mean much in big scheme of things and is offered only for information when viewing diagnostics screens.

What is Navigator?Navigator is a third possible software version that could be running on your 8300HD. It's brand-new, and only used in a few small markets at the moment. As far as I know, Navigator is not deployed in Ohio yet.

I'm looking for an overview of how the buffer works.To tell the truth, I think the reason you're not getting a lot of response is because your observations seem unusual. Normally, if the box is on, the buffer is available. If you've been watching a channel for 12 hours, the last hour of material from that channel should be available. When you say it's not, I don't know what to say to that, because I've never seen that behavior with my SARA-based 8300HD.

How long has the box been on when you see that behavior? Has it been on overnight? Has the television been on that whole time as well? (If you're connected via HDMI to a television, and the TV gets turned off, I think it can have an effect on how the 8300HD operates. I don't have an HDMI connection, so I am not personally familiar with those nuances--my component connection is not so finicky.)

Re: PIP; if you want to preserve the buffer on a channel, you should be able to put that program into the PIP window, surf around in the big window to your heart's content, then bring your first program back to the foreground and have its buffer be preserved. Again, if you're not able to do that, I'm scratching my head. I don't normally use that trick, but I have used it in the past, and have never had a problem with it.

Re: PIP; if you want to preserve the buffer on a channel, you should be able to put that program into the PIP window, surf around in the big window to your heart's content, then bring your first program back to the foreground and have its buffer be preserved. Again, if you're not able to do that, I'm scratching my head. I don't normally use that trick, but I have used it in the past, and have never had a problem with it.I should have pointed out that the reason I don't typically use the PIP trick is because I think it's easier to just hit the "record" button than to mess around with all the PIP swapping. Accidentally hit the wrong button while you're playing around with PIP, and *poof!*, your buffer can disappear. If I want to preserve pause/rew/ff capability on a program I'm watching live, but I also want to be able to flip to other channels, then I simply start recording it, and then choose it from the menu and play it back while the recording is still in progress. On my system, the playback channel is 998. I can pause my playback, surf around on whatever other channels I want to, then switch back to 998 and resume playback when I'm ready, with no risk of accidentally dumping the buffer.

If you've already got another recording in progress, then this trick won't work, because you'll run out of tuners (you only have two, so if you're recording two programs, there's no tuner left to use for surfing around to other channels). But that's how PIP works, too--it uses both tuners simultaneously--so you have the same limitation there.

If you want to archive , buy a DVHS recorder. Essentially, videotape - a huge leap backwards. :eek:

Essentially, videotape - a step backwards. :eek:

Gotta agree there.... TAPE?!?!?!

See the threads regarding Firewire recording from SA boxes via PC.

xnappo

While the original concept of the DVR was for time shifting, there is no reason that other uses can't evolve. That happens in technology all the time. A more reasonable solution would be to limit the number of copies that can be made of the recording. But, I suppose such a procedure would be quickly hacked.Of course not, but those other solutions are hampered by DRM rules. You can make copies of recorded content as long as that content allows more than one copy to be made. You have to remember that the DRV is the
"first" copy. therefore anything coded as "copy Once" is not allowed to be copied off the DVR. And, AFAIK, the only stuff allowed to be copied multiple times is local channel content, making Firewire essentially a non-player and that is just what the Hollywood crowd wants.

jruhnke,

Very interesting! Thanks for your thoughtful and insightful response.

Based on your response I tried a little experiment. I unplugged the HDMI cable and replugged the component cables and...BINGO!...the SA8300HDC now keeps a one hour buffer on the channel it's tuned to. Apparently when it's in HDMI mode it doesn't (unless you invoke it?)!

Does anyone know why the SA8300HDC doesn't maintain the buffer in HDMI mode like it does in component mode? Is there any way to get the SA8300HDC to maintain the buffer in HDMI mode (i.e., like it does in component mode)?

BTW, my unit is:

SARA v1.90.5.a101
PTV OS: OS, Home Server CableCARD Edition 1.2

Thanks, David

I wanted to have the dubious honor of making the 6,000th post in this thread.

Without having to wade through the other 5,999 posts, can anyone tell me if my 8300 will accomodate an external HDD? If so,what type of drive?

The specifics:

PROVIDER: Comcast (formerly Adelphia when STB installed)

STB: SA8300 HD DVR

S/W VERSIONS:
- PTV OS: OS,Home Server Edition 1.8
- FLASH:1.88.25.1
- App: SARA v1.88.25.1

Any other data needed, please advise.

Thanks...

Nick