SA 8300 HD Tips & Tricks -- SARA [Text View] - Page 27

cctvtech

12-08-07, 12:55 PM

There is no way they can tell which outlet you are plugged into. As others have stated, you either have weak signal or the outlet in your bedroom is not set up for 2-way communication.

1.) Check all cable connections and make sure they are at least finger tight. Check your cables; they should all be RG-6, not RG-59.

2.) Check if there are any "traps" in your system. Some older wiring systems had traps to keep the passive devices (TV's, VCR's, etc.) from blocking the return signals from the cable boxes and cable modems. Remove any and see if that solves the problem. They are usually cylinders that have a male connector on one end and a female connector on the other. Make sure you note their original positions in case you have to reinstall them.

3.) Make sure the splitters in your system are rated at least 1GHz and pass 2-way signals.

4.) Try rebalancing your signal levels: draw a block diagram of your hookup and see how many splits are in each line. Here is an example (although it assumes the incoming signal is +35db (most cable systems provide a signal that is "0"db to +10db)):
http://www.hometech.com/learn/video1d.gif
Each 2-way splitter attenuates the signal 4db. 4-way splitters attenuate the signal 8db, etc. These attenuations add to each other when splitting a signal again after a split. Start by assuming the signal is "0"db and add up the attenuations to find the result at each port. The result will be a negative number for each outlet. Higher negative numbers equal weaker signals. Most cable boxes require signal levels between "0"db and -15db. Sometimes just changing the way things are split can improve things immensely. It can help to eliminate any outlets that are not being used and cut the number of splits.

5.) Install a two-way drop amp in the system. Keep in mind that drop amps usually do not amplify the return signal so that may prevent the box from being recognized by the cable system even if it is getting a strong enough signal.

There is an excellent (though not yet complete) tutorial on home cable wiring at HomeTechs's website (http://www.hometech.com/learn/video.html).

tedmozer

12-08-07, 05:53 PM

I have a series of three splitters. I think the last one in the series is not up to digital standards. I just ordered a CHANNEL PLUS DA-506BID Compatible 1x6 Coax Panel (CHANNEL PLUS DA506BID) that will replace the last two splitters.

Actually, at this point the bedroom and family room are fine. I moved the SA 2100 that was in the bedroom (replaced by the 8300) to the kitchen. Now in the kitchen I only get about half the channels. Definally a signal problem. Hopefully the DA-506BID will solve that situation. If not, I will replace the cable run to the kitchen.

DoubleDAZ

12-09-07, 03:55 PM

For those in this and other threads who try to help folks determine what software they are running, I've added an additional possibility to the images that are in the first post. Here is what I added and I'd like to thank Michael Scott in the Passport thread for the info:

Another way is to look at the A-B-C button labels at the bottom of the guide:
SARA A-Browse By B-Date C-<curved backarrow>
Passport Echo A-Time B-Theme C-Search
Passprt (non-DVR) A-Time B-Theme C-Title
Navigator A-Access Menu B-Find Shows C-no label

Edit: Thanks to Cannon-Fodder, there has already been a change, but a cool change. Unfortunately, the format doesn't work on the AZ HDTV Forum site, so I'll have to see how much trouble it is to try to maintain both. I remember having those problems when I originally 0developed the First Post and had to give up making things too fancy.
A B C
SARA Browse By Date [curved backarrow]
Passport Echo Time Theme Search
Passport (non-DVR) Time Theme Title
Navigator Access Menu Find Shows [no label]

tedmozer

12-09-07, 08:31 PM

I just ordered a Sony STR-DG810 HDMI receiver. I will be connecting my SA 8300HDC to it via the HDMI connections and sending the video and audio from the receiver to my Toshiba Regza 1080p LCD again via HDMI.

However for casual TV viewing I will probably not want to even have the STR-DG810 on (and I know my wife will not want to full with the receiver). If I make a second connection from the 8300 to the TV via s-video, component or whatever (would be best) with an analog audio connection, should that work even with the HDMI cable plugged in?

davehancock

12-09-07, 09:03 PM

MarketingProf

12-10-07, 10:06 AM

It might. Ordinarily the 8300 will not send video out on component if it is sending out HDMI. But, if the STR shuts off HDMI communication, then the 8300 should resume sending on component.

But no guarantees till you try it. It works for me. I just need to switch inputs on my Integra 9.8 shutting down any communication with the 8300 hdmi, so it looks like nothing is connected.

tedmozer

12-10-07, 11:05 AM

MarketingProf

12-10-07, 12:14 PM

I plan to go with component/l-r analog audio to the LCD when I am not taking advantage of the HDMI connection through the receiver. What kind of HD video should I expect through the component connection?
Actually, my experience has been that it is as good if not better. I gave up on the HDMI connection a long time ago, but when I got my new Integra 9.8 and now have 4 HDMI in and 2 HDMI out, I thought, what the heck, I'll try it again. So I have both hooked up, HDMI to the 9.8, component directly to the monitor. When I'm watching without the whole sound system, the HD quality via component is just as good (and I actually think better) than with the HDMI.

I think way back in the thread somewhere or on another thread, like 2-3 years ago, there was quite a debate on this subject, but my recollection is that most agreed that component was as good if not better, and without all the handshake issues that were problematic back then.

tedmozer

12-10-07, 01:53 PM

DoubleDAZ

12-10-07, 08:47 PM

I think way back in the thread somewhere or on another thread, like 2-3 years ago, there was quite a debate on this subject, but my recollection is that most agreed that component was as good if not better, and without all the handshake issues that were problematic back then.You remember pretty well, though I think the general concensus was that digital displays (LCD/DLP) would benefit from HDMI, but that in many cases the increased PQ was not worth the HDCP hassles. This may have changed some with the superior LCD displays now offered. Contrast ratios have gone from 1000:1 to 6000-7000:1 or better. This probably would make a difference if a survey were taken today.

The other thing is that many of us see what we want to see. Anytime we change something significant, a difference often equates to better PQ. Yo can still walk into a store and see dispalys in torch mode. Most shoppers are awed by the bright colors, etc., without giving any consideration to their home environment and reality. Then too, anyone who goes to the trouble of buying a cable, etc., often justifies their purchase, if you know what I mean.

DoubleDAZ

12-10-07, 08:50 PM

So, to be clear (from your actual experience), with the 8300 and LCD linked to the receiver via HDMI and also the 8300 and LCD connected via component/analog audio and the receiver off, the 8300HDC should see the HDMI connection as dead and send video and audio to the LCD through and to the component-analog audio input of the TV?

Also, using the same theory, since my Toshiba LCD has two sets of component inputs and audio, I guess I could also make the same connection from the component video/analog audio output from the HD-DVD player to watch a DVD without the full surround sound system (TV audio only). Think??This should all work, but like The Other Dave mentioned, there are never any guarantees. Even with the same cableco, same software, etc., folks still have different experiences. Your received might not completely shut off the HDMI signal, but you won't know until you try. The only real caveat here is to not spend a lot of money on HDMI cables and make sure they can be returned if things don't work out.

tedmozer

12-10-07, 08:55 PM

I will experiment and report back....... Thanks for all the advise!

2weeks

12-11-07, 01:11 AM

It can help to eliminate any outlets that are not being used and cut the number of splits.

An empty outlet reduces signal strength? That don't seem right.

DoubleDAZ

12-11-07, 08:26 AM

An empty outlet reduces signal strength? That don't seem right.I think he may have been talking about swapping out a 3-way for a 2-way if only 2 legs are being used. I've always covered unused legs regardless, though I've never seen a technical explanation of just why that is recommended. Also, many a problem has been fixed by simply making sure connectors are seated completely and tightly.

cctvtech

12-11-07, 09:41 AM

An empty outlet reduces signal strength? That don't seem right.An empty outlet doesn't reduce signal strength, but using a 4-way splitter where only 2 of the cables are connected to equipment wastes 4db of signal to each outlet.

And yes, unterminated outputs are potential sources of signal leakage - both into and out of the system. In the case of signal leakage into the system, that can cause interference noise where a local channels' OTA signal interferes with the cable signal. In the case of signal leakage out of the system, remember that some cable TV channels share the same frequencies used by aircraft, police, fire and government radios, etc., including emergency communications.

Unterminated outputs can also cause impedance mismatches within the system, causing additional losses to used outputs.

strutter

12-11-07, 12:55 PM

Speedskater

12-11-07, 01:13 PM

Splitters are designed to see a 75 ohm load at each output (provided by a RF input or terminating resistor. When an output is left open a impedance mis-match is created. This causes a high SWR (Standing Wave Ratio) and reflections. Terminating resistors are cheap and are available at RS #15-1144.

strutter

12-11-07, 02:24 PM

^^
thanks. gonna get one.

cctvtech

12-11-07, 03:23 PM

If you are going to put it at the end of the cable, you'll also need an "f" connector and a "barrel" connector. Otherwise, just disconnect the cable from the splitter and put the terminator there.

strutter

12-11-07, 04:03 PM

Otherwise, just disconnect the cable from the splitter and put the terminator there.

this one.

thanks

DoubleDAZ

12-11-07, 08:52 PM

In the case of signal leakage out of the system, remember that some cable TV channels share the same frequencies used by aircraft, police, fire and government radios, etc., including emergency communications.I can attest to that. When I lived in Colorado Springs, the local cableco went driving through neighborhoods near the airport with a scanning device to locate these leaking signals. I know this because they knocked on my apartment door one day to fix some bad connections where I had split the signal. They explained the why and how very well.

cctvtech

12-12-07, 09:44 AM

I don't know if they still do this but some cablecos used to put a "warble tone" on a channel at the bottom or the top of the FM Radio band. Their trucks would drive around with their radios tuned to that frequency listening for a signal. If they found one they would check for signal leakage in the area.

strutter

12-12-07, 03:31 PM

i think i could probably do without 1 splitter. i imagine removing one could only help. i do get some drop outs and pixelization occasionally.
the main line goes into a 4 way splitter outside the house. #1 output is plugged by the cable co. ((and i cant figure out how to remove that terminator. its about 2" long, is threaded onto the splitter, the other end has male threads and is hallow about an inch, when i try to unthread it from the splitter it just turns loosely like its a sleeve over something else there is nowhere to put a wrench or anything. what is it?)) output #2 is the one that had cable but wasn't being used. i removed the cable and installed the terminating resistor suggested earlier. #3 is going to a bedroom. #4 goes to a 3 way splitter under the house. this 3 way splitter supplies lines to the other 2 bedrooms and the living room. seems like, unless i find a need for the extra leg, there is no reason to have the 3 way splitter. provided i can remove the TW termination on the 4 way i may just buy some coax and make 4 new runs off that. is there enough justification in doing this considering cost? would it be cheaper to let the cable company take care of it? since I'd have to buy cable, ends, crimp tool, masonry drill bit (gotta make 1 more hole in the foundation for the 4th line in)

DoubleDAZ

12-12-07, 07:58 PM

strutter,

I would definitely not mess with the outside cabling, especially the device you can't remove, whatever it is. I will say that I have never changed my outside setup, though one tech did swap out a splitter there just to be safe when I was having some internet problems about 10 years ago. Most splitters added by the cableco are designed to provide adequate signals to those cable runs. When I mention splitters, I'm talking about those that have been added inside by you. I see folks who have had their modem and SDTV on the same line for years. Then they buy an HDTV and just swap it out for their SDTV without giving any thought to the extra sensitivity of HDTV hardware.

When I swapped my HDTV in, even though the modem was on a separate line in a different room, I did upgrade the splitters, but that was not enough. I had a 2-way on the main line, then another 2-way on one leg. I tried a 3-way and that worked okay, but I wasn't happy and eventually took out the VCR. I now have just a 2-way with one leg to the DVR and the other to the TV. If I absolutely need to record more than 2 programs at the same time, I just use a VCR in another room and watch it there. My signal levels went from -8 to -10 with the 3-way to -2 now. When I had the 3250 non-DVR, I had signal levels of -16 and had no problems. Needless to say, such levels did not work with the 8300 DVR.

CANNON-FODDER

12-12-07, 10:47 PM

... its about 2" long, is threaded onto the splitter, the other end has male threads and is hallow about an inch, when i try to unthread it from the splitter it just turns loosely like its a sleeve over something else there is nowhere to put a wrench or anything. what is it? ... It sounds a lot like an older filter... ~ 1998 with basic cable (12 ch.) this 2-3" device with no wrench flats and the same freely rotating shell was attached to the cable intake at the grounding point connection/fixture of that house. The tech removed the device when he installed RoadRunner, and suddenly we received all the extended basic channels (77 ch. + the flicker channels). We called and reported this three times (due diligence), but they never did replace it.

v/r,
C-F

DoubleDAZ

12-12-07, 11:47 PM

It sounds a lot like an older filter... ~ 1998 with basic cable (12 ch.) this 2-3" device with no wrench flats and the same freely rotating shell was attached to the cable intake at the grounding point connection/fixture of that house. The tech removed the device when he installed RoadRunner, and suddenly we received all the extended basic channels (77 ch. + the flicker channels). We called and reported this three times (due diligence), but they never did replace it.

v/r,
C-FGood info, that's exactly what I thought it might be, but since I've never seen a filter/trap, I wasn't sure that's what it was. Not sure why it would be attached to a single terminal vs an intake point though or how it works from that location if that's what it is.

2weeks

12-12-07, 11:48 PM

DoubleDAZ

12-12-07, 11:57 PM

I remember reading about a "cable cop". He claimed to have a receiver that could detect a frequency from an illegal cable box.I also know from experience that they send a signal to all boxes every 6 months or so to identify and disable illegal boxes. My second box was not illegal, but it was not on my account, it was given to me for beta-testing software. Before it died, it got disabled by their routine check once and has to be reactivated.

strutter

12-13-07, 01:17 PM

It sounds a lot like an older filter... ~ 1998 with basic cable (12 ch.) this 2-3" device with no wrench flats and the same freely rotating shell was attached to the cable intake at the grounding point connection/fixture of that house. The tech removed the device when he installed RoadRunner, and suddenly we received all the extended basic channels (77 ch. + the flicker channels). We called and reported this three times (due diligence), but they never did replace it.

v/r,
C-F

hum....why would mine be attached to a single output terminal? no line connected? also i subscribe to and receive basic cable, expanded basic, digital tier, HD tier, Sho,Hbo, starz ect. pretty much the only thing i don't get is cinamax, and the Spanish/international channels. i do not use cable for internet or phone. so basically this device(if its what you think it is) is doing nothing. right?

2weeks

12-13-07, 10:38 PM

I also know from experience that they send a signal to all boxes every 6 months or so to identify and disable illegal boxes. My second box was not illegal, but it was not on my account, it was given to me for beta-testing software. Before it died, it got disabled by their routine check once and has to be reactivated.
That was also part of his story. I thought it was just braggadocio. Although I think he said it would "Destroy" illegal boxes. I was picturing all these people bringing there old TVs down to the Cableco. "It was working before you sent the death signal". D* made the news with their prosecutions of pirates, but I've never heard of anyone getting busted by a cable cop.

DoubleDAZ

12-13-07, 10:47 PM

That was also part of his story. I thought it was just braggadocio. Although I think he said it would "Destroy" illegal boxes. I was picturing all these people bringing there old TVs down to the Cableco. "It was working before you sent the death signal". D* made the news with their prosecutions of pirates, but I've never heard of anyone getting busted by a cable cop.Let me say that the cableco in Colorado Springs was very nice and simply redid all the connections to make sur ehey were crimped correctly and tight. I had no problem at all with what they were doing, though I'm sure some would consider it an invasion of privacy.

Cox also gave me no grief. I simply called my cntact who gave me the box and he got it reset. It would have been a different story if they had immediately threatened me and turned off my service, etc.

I do know that DirecTV could actually mess op the box, though probably just the illigal card, at one time, but I've never heard of a cable box being "destroyed" that way.

CANNON-FODDER

12-14-07, 08:23 AM

hum....why would mine be attached to a single output terminal? no line connected? also i subscribe to and receive basic cable, expanded basic, digital tier, HD tier, Sho,Hbo, starz ect. pretty much the only thing i don't get is cinamax, and the Spanish/international channels. i do not use cable for internet or phone. so basically this device(if its what you think it is) is doing nothing. right?No idea.

I could only guess is it is an artifact/orphan of some earlier installation, -- since it is hollow, maybe the guts were pulled out and the tech couldn't get that one off, -- or maybe it was a filter used only on the cable modem run. The house I am in now has two separate cable runs (only one connected) to each room, both run around the outside of the house...

v/r,
C-F

danmen

12-14-07, 09:15 AM

RemyM

12-14-07, 10:05 AM

Sorry for asking a simple question, but I am setting up a friend's HT and he has the 8300. What digital output options are there on this box? Is it toslink or Coax/SPDIF or both? Do you have to "turn on" 5.1 sound once you connect an HT or is it automatic? He is just using Stereo RCA to his TV now.

I suppose some versions of the box could vary, but mine has both Optical and Coax for DD 5.1. Go into settings to verify the DD setting. Just be aware that if you don't use the HT for sound and have HDMI going direct from the box to the TV, the TV must support DD or else it will not get sound over HDMI when DD is the selected audio. You can use RCA stereo cables to get sound from the box to TV then while maintaining the DD setting.

davehancock

12-14-07, 11:56 AM

I suppose some versions of the box could vary, but mine has both Optical and Coax for DD 5.1. Go into settings to verify the DD setting. Just be aware that if you don't use the HT for sound and have HDMI going direct from the box to the TV, the TV must support DD or else it will not get sound over HDMI when DD is the selected audio. You can use RCA stereo cables to get sound from the box to TV then while maintaining the DD setting.All versions of the 8300HD have both Optical and Coax out for DD 5.1. However, there appears to be some local variation on DD support with HDMI connections to the TV. Our system operates just fine with the Audio: Digital Output set to HDMI. The TV (Sony KDS-xxA3000) receives normal audio via HDMI and the surround sound receiver receives 5.1 via optical or coax.

kingpcgeek

12-14-07, 12:50 PM

However, there appears to be some local variation on DD support with HDMI connections to the TV. Our system operates just fine with the DD selection. The TV (Sony KDS-xxA3000) receives normal audio via HDMI and the surround sound receiver receives 5.1 via optical or coax.
If I have my 8300 set to DD there is no audio to the TV via HDMI.

danmen

12-14-07, 03:33 PM

I suppose some versions of the box could vary, but mine has both Optical and Coax for DD 5.1. Go into settings to verify the DD setting. Just be aware that if you don't use the HT for sound and have HDMI going direct from the box to the TV, the TV must support DD or else it will not get sound over HDMI when DD is the selected audio. You can use RCA stereo cables to get sound from the box to TV then while maintaining the DD setting.
Thanks, I'll get a coaxial cable and run RCA's to the set for analong from the TV - although I will likely just set it up to run 100% thru the HT.

All versions of the 8300HD have both Optical and Coax out for DD 5.1. However, there appears to be some local variation on DD support with HDMI connections to the TV. Our system operates just fine with the DD selection. The TV (Sony KDS-xxA3000) receives normal audio via HDMI and the surround sound receiver receives 5.1 via optical or coax. Thanks!

If I have my 8300 set to DD there is no audio to the TV via HDMI.
Thanks. I will use DD via Coax on the HT and not worry about the TV audio.

davehancock

12-14-07, 07:46 PM

If I have my 8300 set to DD there is no audio to the TV via HDMI.Opps, my mistake (New TV, new set-up, etc.) I rechecked and find that the TV gets audio and the 5.1 feed to the surround receiver is active when the STB Audio: Digital Out is set to HDMI - not DD.

I'm fixing my original post.

holl_ands

12-14-07, 11:36 PM

An empty outlet doesn't reduce signal strength, but using a 4-way splitter where only 2 of the cables are connected to equipment wastes 4db of signal to each outlet.

And yes, unterminated outputs are potential sources of signal leakage - both into and out of the system. In the case of signal leakage into the system, that can cause interference noise where a local channels' OTA signal interferes with the cable signal. In the case of signal leakage out of the system, remember that some cable TV channels share the same frequencies used by aircraft, police, fire and government radios, etc., including emergency communications.

Unterminated outputs can also cause impedance mismatches within the system, causing additional losses to used outputs.
Although 75-ohm "dummy" load terminations should be used to prevent
leakage into and out of an unused port, it isn't obvious whether
an unterminated port will affect the OTHER, isolated port.

We need to consider two interference paths....reflection back up the coax and
"leakage" from one splitter port to the other.

COAX REFLECTION:
Consider a 2-way RF Splitter with an unterminated output.
Power towards unterminated port will be reduced about 3.5 dB before being
entirely reflected BACK towards the splitter input, undergoing another 3.5 dB of loss.
This reflected signal is then primarily directed towards the nearest cable
amplifier, where it will be almost entirely absorbed, except for a small reflected
component (typ. 20+ dB return loss).

This reflected signal is short delay multipath interference due to
propagation delay in the coax cables. However, because it is 27+ dB
(plus two-way cable losses) lower than the desired signal, it is just at
or below the level which would degrade QAM signals.

A 4-port splitter would have 7+ dB loss in each direction and hence reflection
would be 34+ dB (plus two-way cable loss) below desired signal. So an
unterminated 4-way splitter may not be a problem for typical cable loss scenarios.

PORT-TO-PORT "LEAKAGE":
A small amount of the (3.5 dB attenuated) signal reflected back at the
unterminated port will also "leak" across to the other output port.

However, since this signal is only delayed about an inch and is attenuated
20+ dB (port-to-port isolation for a 2-way or 4-way splitter), this "nearly
zero delay multipath" should cause only a minor perturbation to desired signal.

PS: A 4-way splitter is actually a pair of 2-way splitters fed by another 2-way splitter.
Hence isolation between ports on the SAME 2-way splitter is 20+ dB, whereas
isolation on ports on DIFFERENT 2-way splitters is 40+ dB...so YMMV...

strutter

12-15-07, 10:48 AM

cctvtech

12-15-07, 12:11 PM

Although 75-ohm "dummy" load terminations should be used to prevent
leakage into and out of an unused port, it isn't obvious whether
an unterminated port will affect the OTHER, isolated port.

We need to consider two interference paths....reflection back up the coax and
"leakage" from one splitter port to the other.

COAX REFLECTION:
Consider a 2-way RF Splitter with an unterminated output.
Power towards unterminated port will be reduced about 3.5 dB before being
entirely reflected BACK towards the splitter input, undergoing another 3.5 dB of loss.
This reflected signal is then primarily directed towards the nearest cable
amplifier, where it will be almost entirely absorbed, except for a small reflected
component (typ. 20+ dB return loss).

This reflected signal is short delay multipath interference due to
propagation delay in the coax cables. However, because it is 27+ dB
(plus two-way cable losses) lower than the desired signal, it is just at
or below the level which would degrade QAM signals.

A 4-port splitter would have 7+ dB loss in each direction and hence reflection
would be 34+ dB (plus two-way cable loss) below desired signal. So an
unterminated 4-way splitter may not be a problem for typical cable loss scenarios.

PORT-TO-PORT "LEAKAGE":
A small amount of the (3.5 dB attenuated) signal reflected back at the
unterminated port will also "leak" across to the other output port.

However, since this signal is only delayed about an inch and is attenuated
20+ dB (port-to-port isolation for a 2-way or 4-way splitter), this "nearly
zero delay multipath" should cause only a minor perturbation to desired signal.

PS: A 4-way splitter is actually a pair of 2-way splitters fed by another 2-way splitter.
Hence isolation between ports on the SAME 2-way splitter is 20+ dB, whereas
isolation on ports on DIFFERENT 2-way splitters is 40+ dB...so YMMV...I agree that the SWR losses from unterminated ports can be minor in most systems. Still, it is not good practice to leave ports unterminated. Will that seriously affect the signal? That depends on many factors. The primary one would be the additional losses from sending signals to nowhere.

In my experience cablecos often don't provide enough signal from the drop to feed a typical distribution system. And cablecos are usually reluctant to increase the level from the drop because of the potential to exceed FCC mandates to minimize the potential for interference with critical communications like aircraft and police radios that share frequencies with certain cable channels.

Although adding a drop amp can increase the signal levels to an acceptable level, they can cause their own set of unique problems. If the signal varies from day to night or warm to cold (which it often does), drop amps can sometimes overload during times of peak level on the system. Also drop amps, in fact any amplification, amplifiy the noise along with the signal which produces less than ideal results. They also don't amplify the return signals like internet uploads and cable box control.

IMO,the best way (though not necessarily the simplest way) to assure a good signal is the steps I described earlier: minimize losses, balance the system and use proper parts like splitters, connectors and terminators. If that fails, then a drop amp can be considered, but it too should planned out and integrated into the system properly.

In an ideal world, each user would have a properly planned and installed distribution system in their residence and the cableco would provide sufficient signal so that each device received optimum level. But that is entirely wishful thinking on my part.

tedmozer

12-15-07, 01:16 PM

Audio/Video Cable Question:

Two things pain me greatly: Getting a new piece of audio or video equipment and not having the right cables (either type or length) and having to run to Radio Shack to purchase what I need at an outradgious price! That is why everytime I seek a cable or adaptor at Monoprice or MCMElectronics that I might need in the future, I usually order two or more (still much less then I would pay a brick and mortar store for one!). However technology moves on and it seems I am always a cable type or two behind.

Right now I have tons of mini to stereo RCA, all kinds of variations of RCA, S-video of all lengths, optical, some coaxial digital and, recently, HDMI is several lenghts. But damn, I still find I need one or two sets of component cables for what I need to do when I rewire my system to include my Christmas present, the Sony STR-DG810 receiver (I am using HDMI from the receiver to the TV, but I also want to run component from the SA8300 to the TV for viewing without the receiver).

My questions is: Do I really need to purchase cableing labeled component (with the red-blue-green connectors)? They look like any other RCA type cable set, at least from the outside. Could I not just use a high quality red-white-yellow audio/video cable set to hook up the component input/outputs (as long as I keep the colors straight)? I guess I could just try it, but I don't want to climb behind my TV to hook up with something that will either not work or not work well......

cctvtech

12-15-07, 01:42 PM

Audio/Video Cable Question:

My questions is: Do I really need to purchase cableing labeled component (with the red-blue-green connectors)? They look like any other RCA type cable set, at least from the outside. Could I not just use a high quality red-white-yellow audio/video cable set to hook up the component input/outputs (as long as I keep the colors straight)? I guess I could just try it, but I don't want to climb behind my TV to hook up with something that will either not work or not work well......The short answer is... not really. That means that you could use pieces of RG-59 for component video, in fact for any video, connections. The cables you use should have certain charteristics:
* All video cables should be 75 ohm impedance.
* The cables should have pure copper center conductors and at least 95% braided copper shield construction.
* They should be flexible - ideally the center conductor is stranded.
* The connectors should be high quality (compression fittings work very well but are bulky and quite long and require a special tool to "crimp").
* For component video, the 3 cables should all be the same length.
* You should identify each end to make sure you connect them right.
* Audio cables are not well suited for any video, especially component video, because of the higher frequencies involved.

tedmozer

12-15-07, 01:46 PM

cctvtech

12-15-07, 01:56 PM

OK, thanks.

Another related question (but not pressing since I already have purchased some "coaxial digital cables), are those oranged tipped coaxial digital RCA cables anything special? Could a high quality yellow tipped RCA video cable be used instead?Coaxial digital cables should also be 75 ohm cables, with the same specifications as the video/component video cables.

2weeks

12-16-07, 02:36 AM

OK, thanks.

Another related question (but not pressing since I already have purchased some "coaxial digital cables), are those oranged tipped coaxial digital RCA cables anything special? Could a high quality yellow tipped RCA video cable be used instead?
What makes it a digital cable? I have used ordinary RCA/video cable with no problems. Except the installer from Fry's telling me it would not work, because it wasn't digital cable. He was wrong, and refused to admit it, even when he heard the DD output.

holl_ands

12-16-07, 03:44 AM

It all depends on how well those cables are designed and fabricated.

An Audio cable (red/white) only has to operate up to 20+ kHz,
which can be done very much on the cheeepppp.

SPDIF (coax) Dolby Digital (448 kbps) ALSO includes (24b/48sps PCM)
stereo data and hence needs about 6 MHz bandwidth:
http://www.epanorama.net/documents/audio/spdif.html
I've had success using both Video (yellow) cables and some better made audio cables.
Composite Video (yellow) needs about 4-6 MHz.
Still not much of a challenge unless the coax gets damaged when putting on the connector.

And Component Video (R/G/B) needs at least 30+ MHz for SD, with
up to 100 MHz recommended for HD....which isn't easy to achieve....

So you might get away with using an audio cable for Dolby Digital,
although it wasn't explictly fabricated and TESTED for 1+ MHz.
A quick test is to simply try it.....it either works....or doesn't....

Using cables that limit the bandwidth of video signals may show up as
a loss of detail when viewing those few programs that actually exploit
the full wonders of HD...or as subtle color shifts....up to not working at all...

tedmozer

12-16-07, 01:43 PM

tedmozer

12-16-07, 01:49 PM

Found the answer in a review on Amazon.com. Wonder if there are any out there that will split both HD video and full audio??

Read the description for this splitter very closely and you notice it mentions nothing about audio or audio quality. Very deceptive advertising, as it doesn't outright mention the fact that it provides no audio pass through whatsoever! Buyer Beware.

davehancock

12-16-07, 04:27 PM

I would like to run the HDMI output from my SA 8300HD to both my receiver and my LCD TV (so we can opt to watch HD TV without the receiver being on). Even though this $20 HDMI splitter says nothing about passing audio, is there any reason to believe it would not?

Cables UnlimitedTM Premium 12in HDMI Cable Splitter Part # PCM-2275

Our HDMI splitter cable provides a fast and easy way to simultaneously connect 2 HDMI displays to a single digital HDMI source. This 12" cable is made from the highest quality components to provide crystal clear video transmissions. With support for high-resolution images, this cable is ideal for home theater applications.The issue is how HDMI audio works. HDMI has two-way communications between the source (the 8300) and the sink (the display). The display tells the source, what it wants, and in the case of most all displays it is 2 channel PCM stereo. So, what your HDMI AV receiver would get over HDMI would be only 2 channel. However, you can run a separate digital audio connection (either optical or coax) from the 8300 to the receiver. Thats a better and cheaper solution anyway.

DoubleDAZ

12-16-07, 06:26 PM

The issue is how HDMI audio works. HDMI has two-way communications between the source (the 8300) and the sink (the display). The display tells the source, what it wants, and in the case of most all displays it is 2 channel PCM stereo. So, what your HDMI AV receiver would get over HDMI would be only 2 channel. However, you can run a separate digital audio connection (either optical or coax) from the 8300 to the receiver. Thats a better and cheaper solution anyway.Using HDMI to go from the DVR to the AVR and then to the TV makes perfect sense, but using HDMI simply to pass audio to the AVR seems kind of silly and needlessly expensive, even using an inexpensive HDMI cable and switcher. As most others have done, it certainly makes more sense, as you suggest, to use a digital audio cable for audio between the DVR/AVR and HDMI for audio/video between DVR/TV. I can't imagine anyone recommending a wiring diagram using HDMI and a switcher unless there were no other solution, and that's exactly what the digital audio connections on an AVR are for in the first place.

tedmozer

12-16-07, 07:41 PM

davehancock

12-16-07, 08:29 PM

DoubleDAZ

12-16-07, 08:51 PM

No. Not two HDMI inputs to the AVR!

My goal is to keep the wiring as simple as possible cable-wise. I am not going to the Receiver from the 8300 via HDMI twice. I would like to connect the 8300's HDMI output to both the receiver and the TV (which has three HDMI inputs). So if I were able to split the HDMI signal (video and full audio) output from the 8300 and send one leg to one of the three Receiver HDMI inputs which will, in turn, output video to the TV via HDMI, and take the other leg of 8300 HDMI ouput and plug it directly into another HDMI input port on the TV, we will be able to enjoy the 8300 HDMI output either directly from the TV (audio and video) or video from the TV and audio from the Receiver.....I understand that Ted. I was just saying that I understand folks who use HDMI from DVR to AVR to TV, but don't know why anyone would use HDMI just to send audio from DVR to AVR. It's so much easier to use a digital coax or optical cable for that purpose and it's a lot cheaper than another HDMI cable/switcher (though splitter seems more accurate). I think we all know you don't plan to use HDMI 2 different ways to get to the TV and I'm sorry if I confused the issue.

It's just so simple to use an HDMI cable from the DVR to the TV for audio/video and then use a digital coax or optical cable from the DVR to the AVR for audio. Unless there is something you are not telling us, I don't see any better way to do it and it gives you the audio options you are looking for.

Unfortunately, I just looked at the latest Connection Guide for the SA8300HD and it is still pretty lame when it comes to offering setups like many folks use, having the option to listen via TV speakers or an HT system. FWIW, I used to have both options too, but that was because I didn't want my wife to have problems using the AVR during the day. Since I purchased my Harmony remote though, we now use the AVR exclusively, single button press and it's all turned on/off correctly.

However, if you are determined to use HDMI, then you need an HDMI splitter and 3 HDMI cables; 1 from DVR to splitter, 1 from splitter to TV and 1 from splitter to AVR. I don't know about you, but to me this looks more complicated and expensive than just buying a single digital coax or optical cable. Are you concerned about maybe having to also run L-R Audio cables to get audio from DVR to TV because of possible issues with Auto-HDMI/DD, etc.?

MarketingProf

12-17-07, 10:25 AM

I understand that Ted. I was just saying that I understand folks who use HDMI from DVR to AVR to TV, but don't know why anyone would use HDMI just to send audio from DVR to AVR. It's so much easier to use a digital coax or optical cable for that purpose and it's a lot cheaper than another HDMI cable/switcher (though splitter seems more accurate). I think we all know you don't plan to use HDMI 2 different ways to get to the TV and I'm sorry if I confused the issue.

It's just so simple to use an HDMI cable from the DVR to the TV for audio/video and then use a digital coax or optical cable from the DVR to the AVR for audio. Unless there is something you are not telling us, I don't see any better way to do it and it gives you the audio options you are looking for.

Unfortunately, I just looked at the latest Connection Guide for the SA8300HD and it is still pretty lame when it comes to offering setups like many folks use, having the option to listen via TV speakers or an HT system. FWIW, I used to have both options too, but that was because I didn't want my wife to have problems using the AVR during the day. Since I purchased my Harmony remote though, we now use the AVR exclusively, single button press and it's all turned on/off correctly.

However, if you are determined to use HDMI, then you need an HDMI splitter and 3 HDMI cables; 1 from DVR to splitter, 1 from splitter to TV and 1 from splitter to AVR. I don't know about you, but to me this looks more complicated and expensive than just buying a single digital coax or optical cable. Are you concerned about maybe having to also run L-R Audio cables to get audio from DVR to TV because of possible issues with Auto-HDMI/DD, etc.?
Just for reference, from the 8300 I run an HDMI to my Integra 9.8 and component and analog RCAs to my Fujitsu plasma. I only turn on the Integra when we watch a movie or an important TV show (not that any of them are that important, and it's only going to be fewer come Jan. 1 when they run out of episodes in the can). Also, as long as i don't have the Integra on that input, the component signal is fine. If I switch the Integra to the HDMI input from the 8300, then I get a signal from the component input on my Fujutsu that it is blocked. So for me it works fine.

tedmozer

12-17-07, 02:03 PM

Exactly what I have decided to do (but had to order component cables from Monoprice to do so). I have two component inputs on my Toshiba Regza. So I will run component video from the 8300 to one and component video from my Toshiba A3-HD to the other along with analog or, perhaps, optical audio to each. That way we can use both without turning the receiver on.

For the full experience from either the 8300 or the HD DVD, the HDMI connection to the receiver and then the TV will be used......

MarketingProf

12-17-07, 02:09 PM

Just for reference, from the 8300 I run an HDMI to my Integra 9.8 and component and analog RCAs to my Fujitsu plasma. I only turn on the Integra when we watch a movie or an important TV show (not that any of them are that important, and it's only going to be fewer come Jan. 1 when they run out of episodes in the can). Also, as long as i don't have the Integra on that input, the component signal is fine. If I switch the Integra to the HDMI input from the 8300, then I get a signal from the component input on my Fujutsu that it is blocked. So for me it works fine.I should also add that I am running just HDMI from the Integra pre/pro to the Fujitsu plasma.

59 Sunburst

12-18-07, 12:55 AM

Is there a way to erase the shows listed under the "In-Progress" tab on an "On Demand" channel? The names of all recently watched shows from an On Demand channel remain on the list for some length of time before the eventually disappear, even if the program is watched in its entirety. With my old 8000 box, rebooting the system would clear the names from these tabs, however they still remain after a reboot on the 8300.

Time Warner (Dayton)
Explorer 8300HDC

BPlayer

12-18-07, 09:09 AM

If your box is running SARA software there is a menu option to delete the entry using the "C" key. Worst case would be to select the movie and start watching. Then press Stop, and you should be prompted to Resume or View Later. Select Resume Later, and you should get the option to delete.

ajstan99

12-18-07, 09:18 AM

Found the answer in a review on Amazon.com. Wonder if there are any out there that will split both HD video and full audio??
ted - not sure if you've seen this, but Monoprice has an HDMI splitter that reportedly passes audio. Read through the customer reviews and see if you want to take a chance.

http://www.monoprice.com/products/product.asp?c_id=101&cp_id=10113&cs_id=1011303&p_id=2522&seq=1&format=2

tedmozer

12-18-07, 12:15 PM

I email them (tech@monoprice.com) and was told that "they all pass audio". But it all seems too "ify" to take a chance. I am going to go with composite video and analog audio for my secondary connections. Thanks for the lead though.

tedmozer

12-18-07, 12:25 PM

I just read through the reviews on Monoprice and the prospects of this working do not seem very good. However, it might be that if you only have one of the split receiving devices on at a time, it could work (the handshake signal would not get scrambled). However, for me, that would not work because my TV would always be on.

Is there a good technical (but readable/understandable) document online that explains the current implimentation of HDMI, both video and audio?

Erik Tracy

12-18-07, 06:22 PM

Noob question.

Is there a consensus for the optimal connection set up for the SA8300HD/C for viewing SD and HD programming content?

The SA8300HD/C ain't no spring chicken for hardware (asic for transcoding?) - so in regards to using ONLY HDMI from this unit to a new HDTV - what does the better job of upconverting SD/480i content: the STB or the HDTV?

I would assume it would be the "new" HDTV because of newer technology- therefore, one would NOT want to use HDMI from the SA8300HD/C when viewing SD content (because by definition HDMI does not support 480i, therefore if you use HDMI, the STB is doing the upconversion to some other resolution (720p or 1080i) - and if that resolution does not match the native resolution of your HDTV, there is yet *another* conversion for this).

Given this, I can understand some of the suggested configurations for connecting BOTH component AND HDMI from the STB:
1)Component for SD content from the STB
2)HDMI for HD content from the STB

So - how do folks have their SA8300HD/C connected up?

And as a side related question:
If component supports 480i for the SD content as well as 720p and 1080i for the HD content, is there a compelling reason to complicate the connections with another cable (HDMI)? Why not stick with just component to your AVR or HDTV?

Noob appreciation genuflection,
Erik

tedmozer

12-18-07, 07:16 PM

http://www.hometheaterhifi.com/videos/secrets-studios/leslie-chard-hdmi-11-10-05/leslie-chard-hdmi-11-10-05.wmv

A pretty good video on HDMI.

pbarach

12-18-07, 08:17 PM

Noob question.

Is there a consensus for the optimal connection set up for the SA8300HD/C for viewing SD and HD programming content?

The overwhelming opinion is that HDMI is easier for both HD and SD because there are no handshaking problems. A lot of people simply gave up on HDMI for that reason, especially with early SARA versions that constantly reset the 8300 to 480i when the HDMI cable was used.

However, as I read this thread, there is a difference of opinion about picture quality of HDMI v. component. On my system, HDMI is noticeably sharper (but that's just my experience).

The 8300 HD won't output both HDMI and component if both are connected at the same time to a monitor or receiver that is turned on, even if you are only displaying
one of these connections at a time on a monitor.

MarketingProf

12-18-07, 09:31 PM

The overwhelming opinion is that HDMI is easier for both HD and SD because there are no handshaking problems. A lot of people simply gave up on HDMI for that reason, especially with early SARA versions that constantly reset the 8300 to 480i when the HDMI cable was used.

However, as I read this thread, there is a difference of opinion about picture quality of HDMI v. component. On my system, HDMI is noticeably sharper (but that's just my experience).

The 8300 HD won't output both HDMI and component if both are connected at the same time to a monitor or receiver that is turned on, even if you are only displaying
one of these connections at a time on a monitor. I was one of the first to adopt the 8300HD and I still have my very first unit. I have both HDMI and component hooked up. There are so many variables involved that I recommend that everyone just try it both ways. I can't see much of a difference between the two, but both inputs have been "calibrated" (meaning by me), so I think whatever differences there might be, I have tweaked them out. I will say that the HDMI seemed to have more punch at first until I went in and adjusted the settings.

DoubleDAZ

12-18-07, 09:45 PM

The overwhelming opinion is that HDMI is easier for both HD and SD because there are no handshaking problems.I think you mistyped, HDMI is the connection that uses HDCP handshaking. Component is easiest because it doesn't.

xnappo

12-19-07, 10:53 AM

Hi DoubleDAZ,

Could you possibly add the info from this post:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=11464993&postcount=6156

to the first post?

Comes in handy when SDV comes up in other threads...

Thx,
xnappo

Erik Tracy

12-19-07, 10:56 AM

Thanks for the info.

SO.....most folks are happy with SD over HDMI from the SA8300HD/C units?

I'm still a skeptic about HDMI and may just go with the component hook up and let the HDTV do most/all of the upconversion by setting the SA8300HD to "pass thru" native content (480i for SD and 720p/1080i for HD - depending on the channel being watched) and not do any bit tweaking.

I guess I know how I'll be spending my time over the xmas break - a/b comparing component vs HDMI for PQ and functionality. ;)

Erik

MarketingProf

12-19-07, 11:39 AM

I was one of the first to adopt the 8300HD and I still have my very first unit. I have both HDMI and component hooked up. There are so many variables involved that I recommend that everyone just try it both ways. I can't see much of a difference between the two, but both inputs have been "calibrated" (meaning by me), so I think whatever differences there might be, I have tweaked them out. I will say that the HDMI seemed to have more punch at first until I went in and adjusted the settings.

Thanks for the info.

SO.....most folks are happy with SD over HDMI from the SA8300HD/C units?

I'm still a skeptic about HDMI and may just go with the component hook up and let the HDTV do most/all of the upconversion by setting the SA8300HD to "pass thru" native content (480i for SD and 720p/1080i for HD - depending on the channel being watched) and not do any bit tweaking.

I guess I know how I'll be spending my time over the xmas break - a/b comparing component vs HDMI for PQ and functionality. ;)

Erik

I should have noted that I was referring to HD content only. I much prefer SD over component and let my Fujitsu do the upconversion once to its native rate.

xnappo

12-19-07, 11:43 AM

I should have noted that I was referring to HD content only. I much prefer SD over component and let my Fujitsu do the upconversion once to its native rate.

At least with my set, if I disable the resolutions in the advanced setup menu, you can do this with HDMI...

http://newteevee.com/2007/12/15/six-steps-to-get-more-hd-from-your-scientific-atlanta-set-top-box/

xnappo

MarketingProf

12-19-07, 12:08 PM

At least with my set, if I disable the resolutions in the advanced setup menu, you can do this with HDMI...

http://newteevee.com/2007/12/15/six-steps-to-get-more-hd-from-your-scientific-atlanta-set-top-box/

xnappo Right you are xnappo, but I still prefer the picture via component for SD. Just looks better to me. Possibly it could be because it is not as accurate (which with SD can be a good thing). Dunno.

Edit: I should add that I use passthrough since either my Fujitsu or the REON in my Integra 9.8 do a better job at upconversion and scaling.

Erik Tracy

12-19-07, 12:31 PM

xnappo

12-19-07, 12:41 PM

*double head shake of confusion* :confused:

So, it is possible to have BOTH component AND HDMI connected from the SA8300HD/C?

I've read elsewhere that this is not possible.

How many remote button pushes is required to 'switch' the SA8300HD/C between SD/component and HD/HDMI channel viewing? :D

Thanks,
Erik

Sorry... I am confusing you. I will just simplify and say I cast my vote for using HDMI. You can use the setup screens I mentioned to force the box to do the scaling, or let the TV do the scaling.

xnappo

MarketingProf

12-19-07, 01:01 PM

*double head shake of confusion* :confused:

So, it is possible to have BOTH component AND HDMI connected from the SA8300HD/C?

I've read elsewhere that this is not possible.

How many remote button pushes is required to 'switch' the SA8300HD/C between SD/component and HD/HDMI channel viewing? :D

Thanks,
ErikOnly double?:)

I'm not sure what the "/C" stands for, but I do have the component and HDMI connected to my SA8300HD. No problem. I just can't pass a signal throught the component while something is "live" to the HDMI.

cctvtech

12-19-07, 01:32 PM

The /C stands for CableCard.

Erik Tracy

12-19-07, 01:33 PM

MarketingProf

12-19-07, 01:47 PM

The "/C" denotes that there is an newer version of the SA8300HD that some folks are getting -but that what box your CSP brings may be either the SA8300HD or the SA8300HDC.

So, how do you get HDMI to 'turn off' in order to pass content over component?

Thanks,
Erik
As long as I do not have the HDMI input selected on my pre/pro the component passes. Once I switch inputs to the HDMI in from the 8300 the compenent is blocked.

My guess is that because nothing is "alive" connected to the end of the HDMI cable, the 8300 sees it as not connected - no handshake. Once I select the input on my pre/pro the handshake is completed and the 8300 says "Oh no you don't. No component for you 'cause you got HDMI. You only get one or the other."

If your running HDMI direct to a monitor, then this may not work since your monitor may only go into standby and the 8300 may still "see" it. Also, don't shut off your pre/pro with the HDMI input selected from the 8300, since the 8300 will still see it as well since the pre/pro will be in standby but often can still pass signals. You must switch the input to CD or DVD or something else to terminate the connection and make the 8300 believe that nothing is there.

Don't know if this applies to cable card units.

DoubleDAZ

12-19-07, 08:28 PM

Could you possibly add the info.................to the first post?Good idea, already done.

pbarach

12-19-07, 09:00 PM

I think you mistyped, HDMI is the connection that uses HDCP handshaking. Component is easiest because it doesn't.

You read my mind (and noticed my typo):)

stosh

12-21-07, 11:25 AM

Comcast here in Mpls just added some new HD stations. However I'm having two issues. I currently have the 8300HDC.

Problem 1: recording gets broken up into different segments - some 1 minutes others longer. I remember this from before (long time ago), but I haven't had this happen before. Since they added the new stations, I got the "box not authorized message", so yesterday I did a hard reboot and that took care of that problem, but now this...

Problem 2: When ff'ing through an HD recording, it stops ff'ing. It seems to be usually at a commerical. My thinking is that since these are new HD stations, maybe all the content in the commericals is a different resolution, and for some reason that affecting the ff'ing? My other thought was that the advertisers figured out a way for us DVR'ers to have to watch commericals.

tedmozer

12-22-07, 11:10 PM

This is slightly off topic, but.....

I have two 8300HD DVR's and one 2100. Comcast in NJ gave me three remotes that look the same. I guess they are the "Comcast Custom DVR 3 Device Universal Remote" and not the other which physically appears the same. My remotes take a 4 digit code and the listed codes are lacking. The other model takes 5 digit codes and has a much larger list of brands with codes that it supports (including one of the TV/DVD combos that I cannot find a four digit code for).

Does anyone know any more information about the difference in the remotes? I want to request the 5 digit code model from Comcast if it is available.

DoubleDAZ

12-22-07, 11:26 PM

If you are looking for a specific model number, you might try checking in the battery compartment (maybe under the batteries).

RussB

12-23-07, 01:57 AM

DoubleDAZ

12-23-07, 10:34 AM

Houston Comcast finally upgraded from SARA 1.88.25.1 to 1.89.22.2 on 12-12-7. It looks like the problem of a place-holder's time slot and channel incorrectly being highlighted in the program guide has been fixed.

Is this correct?Yes, that would be correct.

I looked in the first post, but it didn't have detailed information about how place-holders work in 1.89.x.x, except the length was changed from 9 days to 7 days and place-holders, especially those in 1.88.x.x, can make things look incorrect when viewing highlighted items in IPG looking for potential conflicts or just reviewing upcoming recordings.That's because they now behave as expected. Reruns are no longer incorrectly highlighted. Now, if something is highlighted, it should be recorded, unless there is a 3-way conflict. You can still end up with those if you add a scheduled recording while another is on hiatus and it comes back. However, you no longer have to delete all three to reschedule two. Simply delete the one you no longer want and the other two will record as scheduled, at least they have been for me the few times I've ended up with a conflict.

Also, I saw a discussion about rebooting causing place-holders to reset their date.I've got several place-holders and I just did a reboot to see for myself what happens to them (that should tell you I rarely reboot except to check stuff like this :) ). Today is 12/23 and, as near as I can tell with the place-holders I have, here is what happened:

1. Series recordings set for New episodes, no New episodes in the IPG, rerun episode in IPG, reset to 12/30. I have several of these for series like House, DH, etc.

2. Series recordings set for New episodes, New episode in the IPG, left untouched. Right now I only have two of these for Saving Grace and Y&R.

3. Series recordings set for New episodes, no New or rerun episodes in the IPG, also left untouched. I only had two of these for Torchwood and Flip This House, both of which I just deleted. :)

tedmozer

12-23-07, 12:36 PM

RussB

12-23-07, 11:34 PM

. . .
Now, if something is highlighted, it should be recorded, unless there is a 3-way conflict. You can still end up with those if you add a scheduled recording while another is on hiatus and it comes back. However, you no longer have to delete all three to reschedule two. Simply delete the one you no longer want and the other two will record as scheduled, at least they have been for me the few times I've ended up with a conflict.
. . .

With SARA 1.88.x.x, another way of getting a 3-way conflict was when you wanted to record a program that ran a couple of minutes past the hour and you wanted to record 2 programs that started at the beginning of the hour. The first week you could change the end time of the program that runs a couple of minutes past the hour to stop exactly at the end of the hour. That worked for the first week.

The next week the end time of the first program was taken from the program guide and was a couple of minutes past the hour and there was a 3-way conflict. Even after cancelling the first program and rescheduling it with the end time set to stop at exactly the end of the hour, one of shows set to record at the beginning of that hour did not record. To make all the programs record, I had to cancel all three programs and reschedule all three programs.

I wonder if this is fixed in SARA 1.89.x.x?

I haven't tried it with SARA 1.89.x.x yet since I mainly record first-run episodes and there are so many repeats on now. An example of this situation was trying to record "Women's Murder Club" at 8:00 PM CT to 9:02 PM CT on Fridays and Numb3rs and Vegas at 9:00 PM CT on Fridays. I would change the stop time of "Women's Murder Club" from 9:02 PM CT to 9:00 PM CT.

holl_ands

12-24-07, 01:58 AM

Re: Comcast DVR Remotes

Comcast support replied to an email enquiry and said I could exchange my remotes for the newer (5 digit code) models.

My three Comcast DVR remotes look physically the same. But the codes, inside the battery box, are totally different:

G065203 1067ABG1-B005
C072402 1067BC3-0002-R
C061702 URC-1067ABC1

Anyone know how to decode the above?
The motherlode of info for most cable system remotes is here:
http://www.urcsupport.com/
Click on COMCAST to find URC-1067 models, then click picture to find codes.

PerfnRestore

12-24-07, 08:05 AM

DoubleDAZ

12-24-07, 08:27 AM

I wonder if this is fixed in SARA 1.89.x.x?It is not. I did the same thing for ER, but I had to reset the Start time every week. I don't get a 3-way conflict with ER, but I can see how you might with earlier programs that run past the hour by 1-3 mintutes or so some weeks. I simply chose to change ER rather than the others.

DoubleDAZ

12-24-07, 08:30 AM

my recorded shows are ending about 20 sec too soon. Is there a way to chenge the recorders clock. It is really a pain to add a minute to each recording event.Unfortunately, no, it gets the time from the headend. I notice this a lot on USA and some on SciFi. Many times I record the following program, so I catch the end that way, but not always. And most times I forget to pad the End time, but since The Dead Zone is no more, it probably won't be a problem for me next year. :(

tedmozer

12-24-07, 02:12 PM

The motherlode of info for most cable system remotes is here:
http://www.urcsupport.com/
Click on COMCAST to find URC-1067 models, then click picture to find codes.

That is an really good site. Thanks. I exchaged my grey OK button Comcast Remotes for the red OK model and all is well.

holl_ands

12-25-07, 01:05 AM

Dave

SA 8300 hd -SARA

my recorded shows are ending about 20 sec too soon. Is there a way to chenge the recorders clock. It is really a pain to add a minute to each recording event.

Thanks in advance

Bob
First, you'll need to get in contact with a technical support supervisor.
Then make sure they understand the difference between
GPS, UTC and TAI timekeeping systems:
http://www.leapsecond.com/java/gpsclock.htm

Apparently TWC-SD was synchronizing to either uncorrected
GPS time or TAI instead of UTC (as used by the networks):
http://nist.time.gov/
or maybe they simply entered time from either their PC or wristwatch....

PS: In the past, I've found my PC's clock is off by about 15-30 sec
wrt my "Atomic" wall clock.
However, right NOW, PC clock auto-sync seems to be spot on
using time.windows.com....and time.nist.gov doesn't work
at all (I've seen that a lot....)

RussB

12-25-07, 02:13 AM

It is not. I did the same thing for ER, but I had to reset the Start time every week. I don't get a 3-way conflict with ER, but I can see how you might with earlier programs that run past the hour by 1-3 mintutes or so some weeks. I simply chose to change ER rather than the others.Sorry, I don't understand your reply.

Why did you reset the Start time of ER if you didn't have a 3-way conflict? Note: I didn't get a 3-way conflict message, but I knew the 3 programs would conflict from 9:00 PM CT to 9:02 PM CT after the first week.

You were able to record all the programs by only changing the start time of ER?

I knew that I would have to change the end time every week.

With SARA 1.88.x.x, I had to delete and reschedule all three programs and change the end time of "Women's Murder Club" to have all three programs record correctly. I need to retry this with SARA 1.89.x.x.

DoubleDAZ

12-25-07, 08:11 AM

Why did you reset the Start time of ER if you didn't have a 3-way conflict? Note: I didn't get a 3-way conflict message, but I knew the 3 programs would conflict from 9:00 PM CT to 9:02 PM CT after the first week.

You were able to record all the programs by only changing the start time of ER?

I knew that I would have to change the end time every week.

With SARA 1.88.x.x, I had to delete and reschedule all three programs and change the end time of "Women's Murder Club" to have all three programs record correctly. I need to retry this with SARA 1.89.x.x.Now I'm sorry for the confusion, talking about this is much more confusing than actually looking at the schedule and doing it. This was only meant to verify that we still have to change the time each week, place-holders for weekly (or less frequent) recordings still reset to IPG times.

SARA 1.89 does work differently to where you now don't have to cancel all 3 to get 2 to record, at least I haven't had to when I ended up with a conflict. It seems like I did just change the time on 1 recording to fix the conflict, but I do not recall for sure at this point. I do remember figuring out that I only had to delete 1 to get the other 2 to record. I think I just changed the time on one too and it might have been ER. There are so many that Start/End early/late that I just don't recall which.

I also remember letting the conflict stand once just to see what would happen, but I don't recall now exactly did happen. I believe it recorded 2 of the three, but can't remember which 2 it picked. I seem to recall though that it made some sense and I think it skipped the one with the latest Start time. I think this was with the ABC programs, like DH and GA, in the mix where 1 started at like 9:03 and the other 2 started at 9:00, or something like that.

I do remember doing a lot of testing of this. Eventually though, I simply made a note to schedule ER separately with the later Start time each week, but I don't remember why I took it out of the schedule to begin with. It could be that the other programs simply started their seasons later and ER became the odd man out because I wasn't sure the season was going to be any good. I might also have been testing and once I deleted it from the schedule, I couldn't add it back because of the confict. I don't think I tried to reschedule it for First Run episodes with a later Start time to see if that would put it back in the schedule for each week, I didn't think to try that. If that had worked though, then I would have probably forgotten about it and missed whatever started later on a different channel because there would have then been a conflict the next week.

RussB

12-26-07, 03:15 AM

Dave,

Thanks for the reply. Now I understand.
.

DoubleDAZ

12-26-07, 08:26 AM

Thanks for the reply. Now I understand.You're welcome. I know you fiddle with this a little more than I do, so if you find something else, please let us know.

BTW. I hope everyone had a nice Christmas and is looking forward to the New Year.

MarketingProf

12-26-07, 12:19 PM

You're I hope everyone had a nice Christmas and is looking forward to the New Year.
Right back at ya Dave!

Skylark

12-29-07, 06:12 PM

Originally Posted by jacksonian
I don't know. My buddy has SA with Passport and he can search by title. I'd actually be somewhat satisfied with the Passport feature set. But our TWC won't change because of cost.

DoubleDAZ
Yes, you are right. SARA simply doesn't have a search feature. Sure you can call up a daily list of titles and scroll through, but I don't consider that a search. For those who use it, that is a deficiency, but hardly a show-stopper.
My box is running SARA Version 1.89.17.1.

Is there a way to jump to a title about halfway through the list of titles? I suspect not according to DoubleDAZ's response above but thought I's ask since that post was in 2006.

For example: I do a "Browse By Theme" and then select the letter B. I want to jump to "Billiards" without having to scroll through many titles using the page down button. Is there a trick?

Thanks,
Skylark

DoubleDAZ

12-29-07, 07:44 PM

For example: I do a "Browse By Theme" and then select the letter B. I want to jump to "Billiards" without having to scroll through many titles using the page down button. Is there a trick?None that I know of, but you can use Page Up/Down to scroll more items at a time and you can hold the Up/Down or Page Up/Down buttons to scroll faster.

Skylark

12-29-07, 10:58 PM

None that I know of, but you can use Page Up/Down to scroll more items at a time and you can hold the Up/Down or Page Up/Down buttons to scroll faster.
Too bad. It would be nice if the makers of the SARA firmware added a second letter title search.
Just in case they monitor this thread, they could do it by adding a second letter column in the title letter search.

For instance when doing a title search:
1. Press the left arrow which normally displays the "TITLE A-Z" column. But instead two columns appear labeled "TITLE COL 1" and "TITLE COL 2". The highlight is automatically in "TITLE COL 1".
2. Press the Page buttons and the up/down arrows to select the col 1 letter.
3. Pressing the right arrow moves the highlight to "TITLE COL 2".
4. Select the second letter using the Page buttons and the up/down arrows.
5. Press the right arrow again to return to the list of titles.
6. The DVR remembers the user's last title selections if he changes the date since he/she may be searching for a particular title on different days.

We can dream anyway. Thanks Dave,
Skylark

DoubleDAZ

12-29-07, 11:37 PM

We can dream anyway. Thanks Dave, Skylark Well, there are a few different IPG software packages out there, most cableco's simply won't pay for them. Even where they have Passport on TWC, that is being replaced by TWC's in-house Navigator package. I'm assuming other cableco's will upgrade from SARA sometime after they implement OCAP. Or, they will simply let the 3rd parties offer upgrades to the basic cableco offering. Of course, any real change is probably still 2 years or more away. If you have a computer handy, I assume you know about sites like TitanTV that offer serious search/wishlist features to identify items for you to then record.

vegggas

12-29-07, 11:49 PM

Skylark

12-30-07, 12:05 AM

If you have a computer handy, I assume you know about sites like TitanTV that offer serious search/wishlist features to identify items for you to then record.
First I heard of titan tv. I have used zap2it and tv.yahoo though. Just too lazy to do the computer searching and find the DVR's guide so handy.

RussB

12-30-07, 12:05 AM

Is there any info about the next version of the SA 8300 HD DVR and the cable card version SA 8300 HDC DVR or the next version of SARA after 1.89.x.x and 1.90.x.x?

vegggas

12-30-07, 12:15 AM

Is there any info about the next version of the SA 8300 HD DVR and the cable card version SA 8300 HDC DVR or the next version of SARA after 1.89.x.x and 1.90.x.x?

There will be specific public announcements from SA during CES week.

vegggas

TeddyR

12-30-07, 02:37 AM

RussB

12-30-07, 03:48 AM

After seeing vegggas' reply, I googled "CES 2008 Scientific Atlanta" and found the following (Note: The date is May 10, 2007):

News Analysis May 10, 2007, 9:08PM EST

Cisco Steps Up Consumer Push
CEO Chambers is readying a souped-up set-top box as part of the networking company's deepest push yet into the living room

by Peter Burrows

It was less than an hour after Cisco Systems Chief Executive John Chambers released impressive third-quarter results, but the stock was slumping on disappointment with his forecast for the current period. Last quarter, sales jumped 21%, yet Chambers was calling for growth of 15% to 16% this quarter—and was unwilling to tweak his long-term growth target of 10% to 15%.

Chambers conceded during a call with analysts that with several areas of the business growing at a faster pace, it would be enticing to issue a higher long-term forecast. "But I'm going to resist the temptation," Chamber says. "I don't want expectations to get ahead of our ability to deliver." Having been through the dot-com bust early in the decade, Chambers knows all too well that healthy growth rates today can lay the groundwork for disappointments tomorrow.

"An Architectural Play"

That's why Cisco is now stepping up its attack on big new markets—including the most alluring of them all: the consumer. Cisco (CSCO), the world's largest maker of networking gear, has widened its focus in recent years to include regular folks in addition to the large corporations and telecommunications services providers that make up the bulk of its base.

Its 2003 purchase of Linksys has made Cisco the market-share king in the home wireless router business, and in late 2005, Cisco acquired set-top box powerhouse Scientific-Atlanta, just in time to ride a huge wave of new demand from its cable and telecom carrier customers.

But home routers and set-top boxes may be only the beginning. The company has already begun to announce some stand-alone products, including a line of home phones, webcams for monitoring the kids, and storage devices for creating DVD-less movie libraries. But those are only part of the plan. Cisco wants to become the epicenter of what it's calling a "Connected Home" where consumers use Cisco software to manage how all of these devices—not to mention TVs, PCs, and possibly even iPods, should Apple (AAPL) sign on—interact.

If successful, Cisco will benefit from sales not only of stand-alone consumer gear but also of the huge routers and switches cable companies and carriers need as they race to deliver more music, movies, and other digital fare to consumers' homes. "We are going to move aggressively into consumer markets—but it will be an architectural play," Chambers says.

Networking DVD Players

A key part of this push will be a souped-up set-top box that melds many existing products into one. Sources say it will include the basic TV capabilities of Scientific-Atlanta, including a TiVo-style personal video recorder, with wireless networking know-how from Linksys. Consumers could use the device to take content received over cable DSL and distribute it around the house, sources say.

The box will probably also include technology from KiSS Technology, a Danish startup purchased in 2005. Already available in Europe, these networked DVD players let owners grab content such as family photos and home movies off a PC, like Apple's new Apple TV does. But while Apple TV can only access content stored in an iTunes library on a PC, sources say this device will provide a browser, so users could access all manner of Web content—videos off of YouTube, video podcasts, and the like.

Sources expect Cisco to release the device toward the end of the year or early 2008. There would be versions sold in stores under the Linksys brand, and others that would be provided by cable companies and other carriers. Cisco Senior Vice-President Robert Lloyd declined to comment specifically as to whether such a product is in the works, but he said there's plenty of scope for further integration of recent acquisitions. "With the ability of Scientific-Atlanta to deliver this video experience, and the ability of Linksys to distribute it throughout the connected home, there are clearly synergies we want to take advantage of," Lloyd says.

Retail Resistance?

When it comes to video and getting it from the network to the living room, timing is crucial. Chambers, who told BusinessWeek.com that he will remain at Cisco for three to five more years, said during the earnings conference call that consumer traffic on the Net this year would exceed corporate traffic for the first time (see BusinessWeek.com, 5/9/07, "John Chambers Agrees to Stay at Cisco Until Next Decade"). That's largely because of the popularity of online video, which consumes far more bandwidth than do static Web sites or Internet-based phone calls. "Video-on-demand and personalized video distribution could be a massive driver of network consumption," says former Cisco Chief Information Officer Peter Solvik, now a venture capitalist with Sigma Partners. "That's a killer platform for them to grow on."

Cisco isn't the only company that sees the opportunity. Phone company Verizon Communications (VZ) and satellite service DirecTV (DTV) are both preparing to introduce multi-room digital video recorders. And big cable companies plan a slew of multi-room products and receivers that let subscribers shuttle content between set-tops, PCs, and mobile devices, says John Burke, vice-president and general manager of digital video solutions at Motorola (MOT), a Scientific-Atlanta rival that counts the largest U.S. cable companies among its customers.

And analysts wonder whether Cisco will overreach trying to execute such ambitious plans. While it certainly isn't going to back away from selling through big carriers, some analysts wonder whether it can successfully sell such complex products at retail. "The biggest obstacle has been the retailers themselves," says Mike Paxton, an analyst with In-Stat. "They're just not interested in carrying cable boxes. The profit level is low, the demand is low, and they don't want to give up shelf space for something that will gather dust." So for now, veterans at Cisco's Scientific-Atlanta unit are still focusing on selling via carriers, he says. "Most consumers are quite happy leasing the box from the cable operator and getting a new one when something goes wrong."

The Challenge: Keep It Simple

The biggest challenge, however, will be building devices so elegant and easy to use that consumers change the way they use communications and entertainment products. So far, Cisco has relied mostly on a buy rather than build philosophy; homegrown products such as the iPhone family of phones announced late last year haven't had much impact. For a company used to selling to network administrators, Cisco has a long way to go. Snipes one tech executive: "The question isn't just whether they can build a good consumer product. It's whether they'd know a good consumer product if it bit them."

To succeed, Cisco will need to master software—not just the heavy-duty product and network engineering, but the controls that show up on screen. A Linksys spokesperson says the plan is for all of Cisco's consumer products to share a layer of software that would let them work easily together, while also being personalized by consumers. "The real home run is if Cisco can be the bridge between all these devices and make navigating between them as simple as turning on your TV," says Edmond B. Lewis, general partner at RCBG, a Chicago consultancy.

To that end, Chief Development Officer Charlie Giancarlo has been aggressively building a team of design specialists. This effort is very early-stage. "They've invested in it, and started to build some teams," says an insider. "But they're light years behind Apple or Sony (SNE) in terms of having something be sexy."

"All About Video"

Sexy or no, the products will be based on open standards, enabling them to be compatible with a host of rival digital devices. Of course, Cisco intends to add its own features on top of those standards, to make its products stand out. But "the days of proprietary operating systems and products is over," Chambers says. "You'll be able to see any device and any content you want, in whatever mode you want. I might like [to use] voicemail, and you might like e-mail," he says, and Cisco's software would be smart enough to do the necessary translations.

Chambers may be reluctant to overpromise on growth and readily admits that the company has a lot to prove. But he says he's convinced Cisco has predicted market trends expertly and is well-suited to the task.

Chambers recalls the criticism heaped on the company a couple years back for spending $500 million to develop a router, the CRS-1, so powerful that it could transmit the entire Library of Congress in 4.6 seconds. "People said we'd only be able to sell seven of them," Chambers says. But now, thanks to the explosion in online video distribution, sales of the router are expected to hit $1 billion in the fiscal year that ends this summer, up from $400 million last year. "We knew it was going to be all about video," Chambers says. "The market is going exactly where we thought it would." And that's precisely the direction he plans to take Cisco.

http://www.businessweek.com/technology/content/may2007/tc20070509_291819.htm

We will see if this is announced at CES 2008 and if anything has changed.

DoubleDAZ

12-30-07, 09:15 AM

Dave, Good news for you and others...
Cox is implementing a nationwide IPG in a few months based on the Gemstar - TVGuide IPG using the old Passport platform to ALL STB's, including both Moto and SA and even all compatible OpenCable (formerly called OCAP) devices. One of the new features also includes online scheduling of your DVR through TVGuide online. It should be available everywhere to all Cox markets within 3 to 6 months. Most users prefer the old Passport software over the SARA software, and this will incorporate those features, as well as a host of other features in the new IPG build.

vegggasThanks, man! I've been saying for some time that things will break free once OpenCable is implemented and we can always rely on you for the first announcement. As always, I look forward to your report from CES. Guess I might have to ditch TitanTV in favor of TVGuide Online. I just hope they have improved on the Passport I've used at my daughter's in NC. FWIW, here's the press release:

Gemstar-TV Guide and Cox Communications Expand Their Relationship for Interactive Program Guide (IPG) Products, Services and Technology
December 19, 2007 (Los Angeles, CA) --

Gemstar-TV Guide International, Inc. (NASDAQ: GMST), a leading media, entertainment and technology company, and Cox Communications, a leading broadband communications company, today announced that the companies have expanded their relationship for IPG products, services and technology.

The new multi-year deal announced today includes product agreements covering the company’s native Passport IPGs as well as an OCAP version of Passport, and certain features and services of My TV Guide, including remote record. In addition, the company has granted Cox an IPG patent license. Passport is currently distributed in Cox’s Motorola systems and Cox expects to begin deploying Passport to its Scientific Atlanta (SA) boxes in early 2008.

Tom Carson, president, North American Interactive Program Guide Group for Gemstar-TV Guide said, “We are happy to extend our long relationship with Cox through this new agreement. The Passport IPG solution makes sense for Cox as it will allow them a seamless transition to a single source IPG solution throughout their systems. We’re also happy that our new agreement includes select My TV Guide features and services, like remote record, which Cox may begin to deploy in the months ahead.”

“We chose Gemstar’s Passport and Echo IPG because it provides an excellent user interface for our customers’ use, especially with video on demand. This is critically important today and will be even more so in the future as our video services become increasingly interactive,” said Steve Necessary, vice president, Video Strategy and Product Management. “This will enable all of our customers to benefit from the same user interface and take advantage of similar applications across disparate set top box hardware environments.”

http://www.gemstartvguide.com/PressRelease/tabid/128/Default.aspx?CID=595

TeddyR

12-30-07, 09:54 AM

What are the differences between the 8300HD and the 8300HDC if any?

DoubleDAZ

12-30-07, 09:56 AM

Cablecard. Actually, the software is different too (added cablecard support), but the units function the same when it comes to recording, viewing, etc.

1_budz

12-30-07, 07:54 PM

I'm new to HD scene. Pardon me if this has been repeatedly asked. I got my first SA 8300 HD box from our local Time Warner Cable company which is hooked up via HDMI. I'm getting the HDCP msg telling me to use the component cables on my Sony 40 inch lcd tv. Is there any work around this issue? Or will I be stuck with using the component cables that the cable company provided? Initially I think the 8300 HD box is defective in some way because I get the HDCP error message on my lcd tv then in a few seconds later it's able to tune into any cable station.

If the lcd tv is powered off but the HD box is on so I can tape via vcr, it doesn't tape the cable station I have it set to. It will tape the HDCP message to use the component cables. But if I have the lcd tv powered on it will tape the cable station I have it set to. It's very confusing and frustrating at this point. My friend has the same 8300 HD box hooked up via HDMI but he doesn't have the HDCP error message or any of the problems that I am having.

I'd appreciate any help/comments on the matter. Thanks in advance. :)

DJ Matt

12-30-07, 09:31 PM

This may sound confusing, but I got a PS3 for Christmas and I have an older receiver that does not have HDMI. Well, there are 3 video outputs on my receiver and 1 input. This is the current way I have it.

optical from SA HD8300 to receiver
optical from HD DVD player to receiver
the other optical is for CD and there is 1 input and 1 output and I already tried to connect the PS3 to it and no audio was coming out

So, what I want to do is run RCA cables from the 8300 to the receiver and then hook the optical from the PS3 to the receiver. I do not have any ports to work with so thats what I have to do. Will I still get audio from the receiver if I connect the 8300 to the receiver with the HDMI going to the TV? Its kind of hard to explain, but hopefully someone can pick up on what I'm saying.

CountryJoe

12-31-07, 08:31 AM

DoubleDAZ

12-31-07, 08:47 AM

I need a reality check here. I am a little brain dead today. If, I want to get 5.1 over this box, I just need to connect the coax or optical digital audio outputs to my receiver and leave out the left/right audio. I cannot believe I am asking this but my brain is locked on it for some reason.That would be correct. I use Component and have L-R audio going to the TV in case I want to use the TV speakers for some reason, but all that goes to the AVR is the optical audio cable.

DoubleDAZ

12-31-07, 08:54 AM

Its kind of hard to explain, but hopefully someone can pick up on what I'm saying.Not at all. You simply want to know if the analog audio outputs work to the receiver while using HDMI to the TV. AFAIK they do, but I'm sure someone will correct me if that is not the case.

holl_ands

12-31-07, 06:07 PM

bkazepis

12-31-07, 06:20 PM

What is brand and model number of your AV Receiver?

Why connect (stereo) CD Player via optical???
Simply connect CD to AVR via L/R (white/red) and use optical input for PS3....

That should work.

ExDeus

01-01-08, 03:57 AM

I recently got an 8300HDC.

Cable Co: Charter in Glendale, CA.
Flash: DVR1.5.3_8300HDC_KR_F.p0902
Apps: hrea v3.318
SARA: 1.90.5.a103

I was wondering what the item on page 23/58 of the diag page meant wrt "Copy Protection".

The entries for 1394 have the following:

Protection Type: disabled
Enabled: disabled
Contrained: [blank]

I was about to go get a suitable firewire cable to connect it to my PC (already dlded the drivers elsewhere from AVS) but came across this page that made me wonder if the provider is totally blocking the port? [say it aint so... :-(]
I have the same 8300HDC box on Comcast with similar S/W, F/W versions.

My box shows the same settings for 1394, and I have successfully transferred some content from the DVR (not live TV) as long as I don't interrupt the HDCP connection on the HDMI port while capturing the Firewire port. See the rigmarole I go thru here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=12521141#post12521141). While I'm still new to this box, my guess is that the "firebus" and "fbdtcp" versions have the most impact on the functionality of the Firewire port.

S/W, F/W Versions:

ROM Image: 1.5.3.1001
OS: 6.20.30.1
SARA: 1.90.5.103
PowerKEY LIB: 3.9.7.13
HAL Driver: 1.3.25.1
CpProt LIB: 4.1.1.1
firebus: 1.9.12.1
fbdtcp: 1.3.4.1
PHAL3 Driver: 3.5.18.4

FLASH: DVR1.5.3_8300HDC_LR_F.p.1001

derektanga

01-02-08, 07:52 PM

Sorry... I am confusing you. I will just simplify and say I cast my vote for using HDMI. You can use the setup screens I mentioned to force the box to do the scaling, or let the TV do the scaling.

xnappo

If anyone has the 40kdl-w3000 from Sony...

1. Which is optimal, "pass-through" or "fixed" or "upconvert". I've been reading different things on these boards and am a bit confused as to whether the SA 8300 HD handles this better versus the w3000. Any insight would be greatly appreciated.

2. Does DRC only work if "pass-through" is enabled on the SA 8300 HD?

TIA for any assistance.

regards,
derek

davehancock

01-02-08, 08:09 PM

If anyone has the 40kdl-w3000 from Sony...

1. Which is optimal, "pass-through" or "fixed" or "upconvert". I've been reading different things on these boards and am a bit confused as to whether the SA 8300 HD handles this better versus the w3000. Any insight would be greatly appreciated.

2. Does DRC only work if "pass-through" is enabled on the SA 8300 HD?

TIA for any assistance.

regards,
derekI'm pretty sure that you would be best off with a HDMI connection (get cables from Monoprice - click on ad at top of page). You would use the Auto HDMI with that. But, whether component or HDMI, you would be best to feed the TV with the native resolution of the program - "pass-thru" does that on component.

DRC is a function of the TV, not the SA8300HD. But, it only works on 480i signals. So if you use pass-thru (or Auto HDMI) the DRC can be used on SD programs.

Issues with fixed vs pass-thru come up with TVs that are slow to synchronize the scan rate change. I believe that the new Sony's are pretty fast (I have a A3000 and they have a similar basic chassis design).

derektanga

01-02-08, 08:34 PM

I'm pretty sure that you would be best off with a HDMI connection (get cables from Monoprice - click on ad at top of page). You would use the Auto HDMI with that. But, whether component or HDMI, you would be best to feed the TV with the native resolution of the program - "pass-thru" does that on component.

DRC is a function of the TV, not the SA8300HD. But, it only works on 480i signals. So if you use pass-thru (or Auto HDMI) the DRC can be used on SD programs.

Issues with fixed vs pass-thru come up with TVs that are slow to synchronize the scan rate change. I believe that the new Sony's are pretty fast (I have a A3000 and they have a similar basic chassis design).

dave,

thanks for the thorough response. i'm new to this and have been amazed at the amount of knowledge available on these forums; although to be quite honest, much of it is over my head. either way, it's still interesting to learn new stuff.

i actually have blue jeans hdmi cables that i use (which were also recommended from users of this forum). i haven't tried toying around with the 8300 yet, as i've just only recently calibrated my tv settings, but it sounds like the box will only allow me to use "auto" with hdmi cables. is this correct? and using "auto" feeds the tv with the native resolution of the program?

members in the w3000 thread seem to indicate that they can either allow their box to do the scaling or have the tv do it - sounds like this is only the case with component? i can't believe they'd be using component over hdmi cables.

thanks again for your post. it makes things easier on me as i don't have to fiddle with the 8300 hd box now. :D

regards,
derek

DoubleDAZ

01-02-08, 10:26 PM

i can't believe they'd be using component over hdmi cables.Why not? There is nothing inherently wrong with Component and the IQ difference, if there is one, can often be a non-issue, especially compared to the HDCP problems HDMI can cause some folks and some setups. If you haven't compared the two, how do you know which looks better to you or which results in fewer problems. HDMI is newer and digital, so it has to be better? Not necessarily. Just as some users like everything scaled to 1080i, others like 720p, and still others like to use them all, some folks prefer Component, even on the same HDTVs.

davehancock

01-02-08, 10:35 PM

DoubleDAZ

01-02-08, 10:51 PM

Dave, I really hate to disagree with you, but in this case (a new Sony LCD 1080p) I can tell you from (calibrating) experience that HDMI IS better and with SARA 1.89.17.1 it is pretty trouble free regarding HDCP issues. The old adage about results varying is changing with some of the new set designs.You're really not disagreeing with me. I suspect in this case HDMI is probably better too, but my point was not to let what others think persuade you that one piece of technology is inherently better than another. Just because every other Sony LCD owner uses HDMI, does not necessarily mean it's the best for the OP, just as 1080i doesn't work for everyone with the same setup. 720p should be technically superior to 1080i, but I know enough folks who prefer 1080i on a 720p set and vice versa. IQ is very subjective and we all see things differently, even under the same conditions. Maybe I just like to "see" things for myself. :)

BTW. I trust you had a nice holiday season. I can finally say I retire next year. Yipee!!!

davehancock

01-02-08, 11:11 PM

I trust you had a nice holiday season. I can finally say I retire next year. Yipee!!!Thanks, we did - and congrats on next year!
IQ is very subjective and we all see things differently, even under the same conditions. Maybe I just like to "see" things for myself. :)Ah, as an engineer and calibrator, I think of IQ from a more objective standpoint. I believe that the HDMI situation is improving. I was really very happy at how nicely my (well TW's) SA8300HD and my new Sony 55A3000 work together. No HDCP hassles (though it does some interesting things*), no sync issues with station (from 480i to 720p to 1080i) changes. No 5.1 digital issues with HDMI (can get 2.0 on the TV with 5.1 thru my Yamaha surround sound receiver). It all works the way it is supposed to. No hassles, just great TV. I see more of that coming in the future.

*Interesting things: When TV is switched from 8300 HDMI input, a message goes up on other 8300 outputs saying something to the effect that "HDMI output is blocked - press EXIT to cancel", pressing EXIT restores the analog outputs very nicely. Tells you what is happening, provides a easy escape.

DoubleDAZ

01-02-08, 11:36 PM

Dave,

That stuff sure sounds like Sony has a better implementation of HDMI than most. This is the same version of SARA being used by others that have problems. The fact that yours is working so well seems to point to the TV rather than the 8300 as the problem, doesn't it?

Anyway, as a calibrator, I assumed you'd be more objective toward IQ, but we all know eyes are just not the same for everyone and we all have visual preferences. I have used tuneup DVDs, etc., and I know I don't always agree with the recommended settings, they just don't look right to me.

All that aside, the 8300 usually comes with a set of Component cables, so why not compare for yourself? I belong to a camera forum and I wish I had a dollar for every time someone asks what settings everyone else uses. Like the tuneup DVDs, someone else's settings may be good as a starting point, but everyone should expeirment on their own to see what works best for them.

I don't know anything about calibration, but I assume some settings are set to match specs while others are eyeballed. For those that are eyeballed, I further assume that different calibrators might set them slightly differently depending on personnal preferences. I am quite sure you'd set my HDTV up a little differently than I have. :)

1_budz

01-03-08, 12:56 AM

Why not? There is nothing inherently wrong with Component and the IQ difference, if there is one, can often be a non-issue, especially compared to the HDCP problems HDMI can cause some folks and some setups. If you haven't compared the two, how do you know which looks better to you or which results in fewer problems. HDMI is newer and digital, so it has to be better? Not necessarily. Just as some users like everything scaled to 1080i, others like 720p, and still others like to use them all, some folks prefer Component, even on the same HDTVs.

I have a kdl-40w3000 lcd tv that uses a TW SA 8300 HDC box. The first one I got was defective but I have a new one that works correctly. I did comparison of component cables & HDMI. :) HDMI in my eyes won hands down. :D The picture quality was vibrant compared to the dreary and dull picture on component cable. My 40w3000 uses the calibration settings from the xbr4/5 thread.

:( Unfortunately due to my current video set up I'm returning the SA 8300 HDC box to my local cable company. The reason is because I record shows on a VCR/COMBO unit that has no tuner. In order for me to record to the VCR I would have to leave the lcd tv powered on and set to line 1. This is not acceptable. If I use the component cables I don't have that problem. Anyway I'm going back to using a digital dvr box from TW.

Skylark

01-03-08, 02:02 AM

What SA8300 SARA diagnostic screen value represents analog channel (02 to 06) signal levels?

For example with the 8300 tuned to channel 04, on diag screen-1, RF PARAMETERS there are 3 values:
Tuner-1: Analog
FDC: 3dBmV
RDC: 44dBmV

But when I tune to digital channel 82, diag screen-1 RF PARAMETERS are:
Tuner-1: 11dBmV
FDC: 3dBmV
RDC: 44dBmV

Is the FDC the analog video signal level? If so, when I tune to digital channel 82 why doesn't the FDC say "Digital" instead of 3dBmV? (Note that Tuner-1 says "Analog" when on channel 04.)

RussB

01-03-08, 03:56 AM

Here is a link to the post that links to Scientific Atlanta's new 8550HD dvr spec sheet.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=12656205#post12656205

wingzz

01-03-08, 07:48 AM

DoubleDAZ

01-03-08, 08:44 AM

I have a kdl-40w3000 lcd tv that uses a TW SA 8300 HDC box. The first one I got was defective but I have a new one that works correctly. I did comparison of component cables & HDMI. :) HDMI in my eyes won hands down. :D The picture quality was vibrant compared to the dreary and dull picture on component cable. My 40w3000 uses the calibration settings from the xbr4/5 thread.I think you all mistook my statements to say that I didn't think HDMI would be better. That is not the case. I was simply trying to get the OP to do his own comparison and not let any HDMI hype sway him. I agree with The Other Dave that newer HDTVs and other devices takes advantage of HDMI better than older stuff, but IMHO it should never be a case of doing whatever someone else does without checking for yourself.
Unfortunately due to my current video set up I'm returning the SA 8300 HDC box to my local cable company. The reason is because I record shows on a VCR/COMBO unit that has no tuner. In order for me to record to the VCR I would have to leave the lcd tv powered on and set to line 1. This is not acceptable. If I use the component cables I don't have that problem. Anyway I'm going back to using a digital dvr box from TW.If you are using SARA and have the Copy To VCR function why return the 8300? You can record what you want and then copy it to the VCR at your leisure. AFAIK, the TV won't need to be on for that, but I could be wrong. Just a thought.

One other comment that I'm sure The Other Dave will correct. When you use Component and set your display options, I have no doubt that switching to HDMI will usually initially make the colors brighter, etc. This seems to me to be very similar to switching from analog to digital audio outputs where the digital output is generally louder, etc., and often the volume needs to be adjusted. Since Dave is a calibrator though, I'll accept that it's not quite the same concept and Component simply can't be adjusted to compete with HDMI, or at least not as easily, on a given HDTV like the Sony.

DoubleDAZ

01-03-08, 08:49 AM

What SA8300 SARA diagnostic screen value represents analog channel (02 to 06) signal levels?We don't have analog anymore, but try looking at page 5. Also, review the First Post where it discusses some of this info. Together, they might answer your qestion.

DoubleDAZ

01-03-08, 08:57 AM

I have a question I haven't found in this thread.

I just bought a slingbox because I'll be going to Russia in the next few weeks and they have no english TV there.
Anyway my problem is I run HDMI to my denon 4306 and the composite to the slingbox.
When the receiver is on I get the signal via the slingbox but if it is off I get a msg saying your Tv does not support HDCP....
Is there some setting in the 8300 that I can change so the box will output to the slingbox when the HDMI connection is not active.
IIRC I have the box set to putput everything at 1080i, should I add 480i to that setting, will that allow the composite output to function even if the HDMI connection is off??
Thanks for all the great info floating around this site, it is a great resourceThis is one of the hassles of using HDMI instead of Component with some setups. With the AVR off, the 8300 cannot complete the HDCP handshake required with HDMI, so you get the error message. You might try switching to Component while you are gone. Perhaps just disconnecting the HDMI from the 8300 will solve the problem until you get back. I don't know of any setting on the 8300 that will solve the problem.

wingzz

01-03-08, 09:06 AM

This is one of the hassles of using HDMI instead of Component with some setups. With the AVR off, the 8300 cannot complete the HDCP handshake required with HDMI, so you get the error message. You might try switching to Component while you are gone. Perhaps just disconnecting the HDMI from the 8300 will solve the problem until you get back. I don't know of any setting on the 8300 that will solve the problem.

Thanks for the quick reply, I guess I'll just leave the receiver on with no volume while I'm gone, or I might try to switch to component but that would require reprogramming the C4 system so my wife can still use the theater while I'm gone

DoubleDAZ

01-03-08, 09:10 AM

Thanks for the quick reply, I guess I'll just leave the receiver on with no volume while I'm gone, or I might try to switch to component but that would require reprogramming the C4 system so my wife can still use the theater while I'm goneI guess I assumed no one would be home. If your wife is still going to use the system, then disconnecting the HDMI is obviously not an option.

davehancock

01-03-08, 01:09 PM

Anyway, as a calibrator, I assumed you'd be more objective toward IQ, but we all know eyes are just not the same for everyone and we all have visual preferences. I have used tuneup DVDs, etc., and I know I don't always agree with the recommended settings, they just don't look right to me.

All that aside, the 8300 usually comes with a set of Component cables, so why not compare for yourself? I belong to a camera forum and I wish I had a dollar for every time someone asks what settings everyone else uses. Like the tuneup DVDs, someone else's settings may be good as a starting point, but everyone should expeirment on their own to see what works best for them.

I don't know anything about calibration, but I assume some settings are set to match specs while others are eyeballed. For those that are eyeballed, I further assume that different calibrators might set them slightly differently depending on personnal preferences. I am quite sure you'd set my HDTV up a little differently than I have. :)One assumption that too many folks make is that the same settings will yield the same results on similar sets. That fails to take into account set to set variations. While most of the settings (gray scale, color, etc.) are made using test patterns and a professional colorimeter, others (sharpness, various enhancements) are made using known test patterns and are eyeballed. The ability of a set to resolve 1080x1920 pixels is evaluated by eye and a test pattern with 1 pixel wide vertical lines. It is this latter pattern that is often very telling about HDMI vs component and about 768x1366 sets dealing with 720p or 1080i.

Again, I don't want to really detract from your "try both" advice. There are a bunch of (mostly older) sets with HDMI inputs that actually converted the HDMI input to analog and later back to digital. So the "try" advice has been important. But, things are changing (fortunately).

BTW: I just had some dialog over in the Navigator thread about the 8300 and digital audio. I've found with my new set (and I suspect the 40W3000 too) can accept 5.1 in (does not signal the 8300 to send 2.0) and reproduce all 5 channels in the TV. It does not force the 8300 to send 2.0. However, the digital audio out from the TV is still 2.0 from HDMI audio inputs and is properly matrixed so the 2.0 out reproduces those 5 channels properly.

davehancock

01-03-08, 01:18 PM

One other comment that I'm sure The Other Dave will correct. When you use Component and set your display options, I have no doubt that switching to HDMI will usually initially make the colors brighter, etc. This seems to me to be very similar to switching from analog to digital audio outputs where the digital output is generally louder, etc., and often the volume needs to be adjusted. Since Dave is a calibrator though, I'll accept that it's not quite the same concept and Component simply can't be adjusted to compete with HDMI, or at least not as easily, on a given HDTV like the Sony.I've seen it (video) both ways - sometimes the component appears more vivid, sometimes the HDMI appears more vivid. It depends on the set. BUT, you sound be able to adjust the set so that they appear pretty close - and that is something one ought to do when making a comparison.

PS: On the audio comparison - I'm not sure that one is necessarily louder than the other (other than digital usually has a wider dynamic range). It all depends on the receiver and the source. ;)

derektanga

01-03-08, 02:39 PM

I think you all mistook my statements to say that I didn't think HDMI would be better. That is not the case. I was simply trying to get the OP to do his own comparison and not let any HDMI hype sway him. I agree with The Other Dave that newer HDTVs and other devices takes advantage of HDMI better than older stuff, but IMHO it should never be a case of doing whatever someone else does without checking for yourself.

I appreciate the sentiment and will certainly experiment with my settings and continue to fine tune the box and set. It's fun to do. Plus, with as much as I think I've learned, I've certainly become a more discerning, if not critical, viewer/consumer.

On the same note, a newbie like myself seeks out these forums for the suggestions and advice offered. While I believe a dose of skepticism is healthly, I tend to be comforted by the consensus opinion.

Based on other things I've come across in this thread, I plan to try these steps to see if it makes any PQ difference: http://newteevee.com/2007/12/15/six-steps-to-get-more-hd-from-your-scientific-atlanta-set-top-box/

In all honestly, I am very pleased with the tv and box.

Thanks again for the replies.

Skylark

01-03-08, 05:11 PM

We don't have analog anymore, but try looking at page 5. Also, review the First Post where it discusses some of this info. Together, they might answer your qestion.
Did not find the answer on page-5. Had previously printed your first post and did not find the answer there either. (Or the answer is there but I'm unable to confirm it in my mind.)

I don't quite have a handle on which signal actually represents the analog signal levels. Would it be correct to say that the FDC signal level on diagnostic screen page-1 represents the analog signal level when tuned to an analog channel?

Thanks,
Skylark

DoubleDAZ

01-03-08, 10:06 PM

Skylark,

I think you are looking for something that is not there for analogs. I did find our one remaining analog channel. As you noticed, page 1 shows "analog" for Tuner1 and page 5 shows blank data for Current QAM. FDC and RDC are as defined in the first post. You can find more info at this link, also from the First Post, but it's not going to help with analog data that isn't displayed:
http://www.dslreports.com/faq/sciatl/3.1_Using_diagnostic_screens

endeitz

01-03-08, 10:41 PM

I have Time-Warner in Austin. My DVR lately has been randomly breaking recordings into several smaller recordings of random length. Has anyone seen this behavior before? I record a program (say some football) normally from the guide. It starts recording, but then somewhere along the line the DVR stops and restarts the recording process. See the attached picture for an example of the result.

We had a service call and the tech said he thought the hard drive might be bad. I have tried all of the reboots except the one that wipes the whole hard drive. I will probably try this tonight (much to the chagrin of my kids -- bye bye, Diego!)

Thanks in advance for any suggestions people might have.

Cheers,

Ed.

Jim Gilliland

01-03-08, 11:00 PM

strutter

01-04-08, 10:36 AM

channel G4 is providing CES 2008 coverage.

Monday, 1/7, 7pm EST, G4 ,CES 2008 first day coverage

Tuesday, 1/8, 7pm EST, G4, CES 2008 second day coverage

Scarlett

01-04-08, 01:29 PM

channel G4 is providing CES 2008 coverage.

Monday, 1/7, 7pm EST, G4 ,CES 2008 first day coverage

Tuesday, 1/8, 7pm EST, G4, CES 2008 second day coverageWhat and where is "Channel G4"?

Thanks!

Scarlett

kingpcgeek

01-04-08, 01:34 PM

What and where is "Channel G4"?

G4 is the red headed step child and amalgamation of the video game channel G4 and the once great and departed TechTV(ZDTV).

stangbat

01-04-08, 02:21 PM

I have been a BeyondTV 3.7 user for three years (never upgraded to BTV 4). Due to some glitches in the operation of my BTV PVR, I picked up a SA 8300 HD from the cable company on Wed. So far I like it, but it isn't without its faults.

The deciding factor to get the 8300 was 1) my current PC with BTV is 8 years old and seems to be questionable as far as reliability, and I'd need to reconfigure another old PC or buy a new one, 2) if I wanted to be able to record HD, I'd definitely need a new computer as the old one was barely cutting it for SD.

$13.45/month for the 8300 vs. a new computer, a HD tuner card, new software since BTV doesn't support unencrypted QAM except on the the HD HomeRun, and well...$13.45/month won out. I also don't have the time right now to mess with MythTV.

That being said, I miss a few things that BTV had and although I have read through several pages of this thread, I'm not going to make it through all 222. So, here are some things I miss. I know some may have been addressed, so I'd appreciate it if you'd tell me if that is the case. I know some will never be addressed. And I know some aren't possible.

-Ability to stop a recorded program, exit to live TV, and later start the recorded program at the same place that you left off.
-Ability to remotely schedule recordings (I know this won't be added)
-Ability to view guide info two weeks in advance and schedule recordings.
-30 second skip
-Ability to view playing time when fast forwarding/rewinding. This would make skipping commercials easier without the 30 second skip feature.
-BTV's scheduling and playback menus and general setup seemed a little easier to use, but maybe it is just familiarity talking.

I guess that isn't a long list of gripes (so far), but it is stuff I miss. In some ways it is also nice to have a PC controlling the recordings as your options are greater. But it is also nice to know that maintenance and upgrades are now the responsibility of the cable co. I'm still keeping the BTV PC hooked up since I have a lot of stuff stored on it. And it also serves as a backup if the 8300 misses something or there is a glitch.

Thanks for listening to me gripe.

philherz

01-04-08, 02:48 PM

-Ability to stop a recorded program, exit to live TV, and later start the recorded program at the same place that you left off.

I only know this one, but you simply change the DVR channel from 800 (at least on mine) to whatever channel you want to watch live.

AFAIK, you can go right back to 800 to the last thing you watched as long as you don't turn the 8300 off.

DoubleDAZ

01-04-08, 06:09 PM

Thanks for listening to me gripe.you don't provide a location or cableco, so there is no way to say if some of this will change this year. Cox here, for example, is converting from SARA to the lastest version of Passport and that addresses some of your concerns. TWC SARA systems will be converting to Navigator and that may also address them. For all I know, there may also be a new version of SARA coming that fixes some shortfalls.

stangbat

01-04-08, 06:14 PM

Fixed that. KC metro, KS side. Everest Communications is my cable co. They're not one of the big ones so who knows what is going on with them. FWIW, my SARA firmware version is 1.88.24.12.

DoubleDAZ

01-04-08, 06:22 PM

Fixed that. KC metro, KS side. Everest Communications is my cable co. They're not one of the big ones so who knows what is going on with them. FWIW, my SARA firmware version is 1.88.24.12.There are newer viersions of SARA (1.89.x.x) available. Do you have a First Run option? Does your guide show New in the display for new episodes?

stangbat

01-04-08, 06:49 PM

There are newer viersions of SARA (1.89.x.x) available. Do you have a First Run option? Does your guide show New in the display for new episodes?
I saw in the first post that newer versions were available. Hopefully they will come my way eventually.

I do have the first run option. No "New" in the guide though.

DoubleDAZ

01-04-08, 06:58 PM

I saw in the first post that newer versions were available. Hopefully they will come my way eventually.

I do have the first run option. No "New" in the guide though.The main thing is being able to record only new episodes. Before they added that option, things were quite difficult and took extra effort to manage recordings.

stangbat

01-04-08, 08:26 PM

The main thing is being able to record only new episodes. Before they added that option, things were quite difficult and took extra effort to manage recordings.
Boy, I really would have been griping if that option wasn't available. I've definitely gotten used to being able to tell BTV to record new episodes and forget about it.

RussB

01-04-08, 09:02 PM

I only know this one, but you simply change the DVR channel from 800 (at least on mine) to whatever channel you want to watch live.

AFAIK, you can go right back to 800 to the last thing you watched as long as you don't turn the 8300 off.Turning the 8300 off doesn't make any difference. You can still go back to 800 (or your playback channel) to the last thing you watched when you turn the 8300 back on. SARA 1.89.x.x is a big improvement over SARA 1.88.x.x (see the first post for the differences.)

DoubleDAZ

01-04-08, 09:15 PM

Turning the 8300 off doesn't make any difference. You can still go back to 800 (or your playback channel) to the last thing you watched when you turn the 8300 back on.Right. As long as you don't start watching another recording, you can go back to the playback channel and start right where you left off.

Coolwater7795

01-04-08, 09:18 PM

RussB

01-04-08, 09:43 PM

Is it for the box to completely shut down without warning? Normally I get the press any button if I want to continue watching, but this is the 2nd time it went completely dead with no power outage :confused:When did this happen?

The box may shut down during late night/early morning hours. You should get a warning message to press any button to prevent this shutdown.

Coolwater7795

01-04-08, 11:31 PM

When did this happen?

The box may shut down during late night/early morning hours. You should get a warning message to press any button to prevent this shutdown.

Yes, like I mentioned above I did not get one of those warnings... It just completely shut down like I unplugged it :confused:

DoubleDAZ

01-05-08, 09:05 AM

When did this happen?

The box may shut down during late night/early morning hours. You should get a warning message to press any button to prevent this shutdown.That's true if it's the box going into auto-shutdown mode, doubt it if it's the cableco or the box causing it for some other reason. Probably need to do a "hard" reboot and see if it keeps happening.

CANNON-FODDER

01-05-08, 02:11 PM

davehancock

01-05-08, 06:39 PM

Hola,
Just a HDMI - Component output report: Here, the STB does not generate a signal on the component output when the projector has HDMI selected as the input. No error screen. When the projector switches input focus (not cable disconnection) the STB begins sending a signal to the component output. No error screen (or brief enough to be within the CRT's sync. cycle <2 sec.).

Somehow it's working automagically. Made the wife happy...

Equipment: SA8300HD
-- HDMI: LCD FP (PT-AX200U)
-- YPbPr: CRT DV (TXM3297HF)
Location: EL Paso, TX
Provider: TWC
OS: SARA 1.89.17.1

v/r,
C-F

C-F, Some of this is bit equipment (display device) dependent. My Sony A3000 (SXRD) works with the 8300 a little differently. If I select a different input on the display the other outputs will show an error message (something like the HDMI input is not selected - push EXIT). If the TV is turned off, that error message will not show up (and component will work).

Hi Deaf

01-05-08, 07:00 PM

Are the front AV "in" inputs active? If so, how do you view it?

CANNON-FODDER

01-05-08, 07:00 PM

C-F, Some of this is a little more equipment (display device) dependent than that. My Sony A3000 (SXRD) works with the 8300 a little differently. If I select a different input on the display the other outputs will show an error message (something like the HDMI input is not selected - push EXIT). If the TV is turned off, that error message will not show up (and component will work).
Exactly.

Based upon most posts, I thought the STB would completely block component (edit: with the FP off but connected) so I never connected the HDMI cable. I read your report and saw a glimmer that she could hit the EXIT button and gain component out ... a little different, but still magic.

v/r,
C-F

davehancock

01-05-08, 07:10 PM

Are the front AV "in" inputs active? If so, how do you view it?Yes, push "Video Source" on the remote.

Hi Deaf

01-05-08, 07:36 PM

Duh! Got it. I was wondering if I could use that source in the PIP, but I guess not.

MarketingProf

01-06-08, 09:40 AM

Just for reference, from the 8300 I run an HDMI to my Integra 9.8 and component and analog RCAs to my Fujitsu plasma. I only turn on the Integra when we watch a movie or an important TV show (not that any of them are that important, and it's only going to be fewer come Jan. 1 when they run out of episodes in the can). Also, as long as i don't have the Integra on that input, the component signal is fine. If I switch the Integra to the HDMI input from the 8300, then I get a signal from the component input on my Fujutsu that it is blocked. So for me it works fine.

Exactly.

Based upon most posts, I thought the STB would completely block component (edit: with the FP off but connected) so I never connected the HDMI cable. I read your report and saw a glimmer that she could hit the EXIT button and gain component out ... a little different, but still magic.

v/r,
C-F
As posted, works for me.

jsmiddleton4

01-06-08, 10:06 AM

Press and hold PAUSE until Mail led is lit.
Press PAGE down or (-), and then press LIST three times.
Turn box off. When turned back on, formatting will begin.

This is a little confusing. Went through it myself and would like to add this.

On mine when I hit the page down key you I saw E:00 on the display. I thought I was doing something wrong. On the third time I decided to try the LIST key. Lo and behold I was not doing anything wrong. Went right to the HDD display. I do not have an external drive and it seems the third press of the LIST key, as noted, brings up HDD-F. It then reboots after a few minutes. I tried HDD-1 and HDD-2 and the 8300 just sat there with the display, didn't do anything. So I'm making an educated guess that HDD-1 and HDD-2 would be external devices.

Thanks for this post and sticky by the way. VERY helpful.

davehancock

01-06-08, 10:20 AM

jsmiddleton4

01-06-08, 10:21 AM

"With the AVR off, the 8300 cannot complete the HDCP handshake required with HDMI"

Ok, how do you turn AVR on? I had that option in my 4340, then my 8240, to setup the VCR/AVR but no such thing on my 8300 that I can find. Where is this option?

jsmiddleton4

01-06-08, 10:33 AM

jsmiddleton4

01-06-08, 10:38 AM

MarketingProf

01-06-08, 10:49 AM

Dave,

"What on earth are you talking about? Using the quote function provided"

Seems pretty clear to me. IF you can't follow and understand it Dave, I'd say don't read it or respond. I will be reporting this as in just a few minutes after I posted you have already made a personal comment towards me, not the subject matter.

I will quote as I decide according to the rules. My post is quite clear.

If you have an issue with me and want to control me for your benefit, please feel free to avoid and ignore my posts.

JS,

Dave can certainly defend himself, but I think you were a little to quick to pull the trigger on your reply. He was trying to help you and could not because he could not undersand your post, and frankly, neither could I. How can anyone asnwer your questions if they can't understand what you are asking? And trust me, getting either Dave to answer your question is worth a lot.

His point about quoting was a simple request that you use the quote function which then clearly delineates the previous quoted post from the current poster's comments and questions. It would be helpful, IMO.

Dave (the Dave with few answers) :)

DoubleDAZ

01-06-08, 11:02 AM

What on earth are you talking about? Using the quote function provided would help put context to your otherwise random comments.He pulled out the Formatting part from the first post. I had some trouble at first figuring it out too. It looks like he wants that part to be expanded to include the E: 00, HDD1, HDD2 and HDDF spelled out, though he didn't really ask for that. I just went through the instructions and they worked just fine for me, though I didn't care what the display was showing as I pushed the buttons.

I was ready to respond until I saw his subsequent response to your post threatening to report it (though I'm not sure what he expects that to accomplish, I saw nothing personal in it). Anyway, he obviously doesn't get that quoting things does not mean wrapping random statements in quotation marks. Using the Quote funtion identifies the original poster and allows folks to refer back to the original post for context. I see MarketingProf has pointed this out, but I'm not sure it will do any good.

DoubleDAZ

01-06-08, 11:05 AM

Dave (the Dave with few answers) :)I don't think I knew until now that you were yet another Dave, that makes 3 of us who post regularly. Dave H and I have been referring to each other as The Other Dave, so now we can add The Dave With Few Answers. ROTFLMAO!!!! Thanks for brightening the day.

DoubleDAZ

01-06-08, 11:16 AM

DN7....

"I was amazed at how much better the picture quality is on the 8300."

I found that to be true just going from the SA 4240/8240 to the 8300. The PQ of the 8300 is crisper than either of the other 2. Also the switching between screen size 480p to 1080i and back is quicker on the 8300.
This is a perfect example of what all 3 of us Dave's are talking about. The quoted statement is from way back in September 2006 and the User ID is not even complete. I first tried to seach on DN7 and found nothing. I then expanded the search to DN7??? and eventually found the OP. If this had been posted using the quote function the way we are suggesting, I would have known right off that it was posted by DN7335 with a link to the post, like this:

.............I was amazed at how much better the picture quality is on the 8300..........

Maybe after you think about this for a bit, you'll see that we are just trying to help you get better, quicker, more accurate responses to your questions/comments.

davehancock

01-06-08, 11:23 AM

Dave,

"What on earth are you talking about? Using the quote function provided"

Seems pretty clear to me. IF you can't follow and understand it Dave, I'd say don't read it or respond. I will be reporting this as in just a few minutes after I posted you have already made a personal comment towards me, not the subject matter.

I will quote as I decide according to the rules. My post is quite clear.

If you have an issue with me and want to control me for your benefit, please feel free to avoid and ignore my posts.I thank the other two Dave's for their comments. And yes, my post was not a personal attack (sorry that you took it as one), but there are lots of posts here on lots of different topics. It can be difficult to follow the gist of a post when the context (as shown as a quote) is missing. Many of the "regulars" here are happy to help others, and try to follow new problems and new solutions. At any one time, there are multiple topics being discussed here, use of the quote function on a reply to a posting helps separate the individual topics.

Yes, I could ignore you. But should I do that if you are giving bad advice to a poster (not saying you did), or have additional suggestions to offer?

MarketingProf

01-06-08, 01:14 PM

I don't think I knew until now that you were yet another Dave, that makes 3 of us who post regularly. Dave H and I have been referring to each other as The Other Dave, so now we can add The Dave With Few Answers. ROTFLMAO!!!! Thanks for brightening the day.It dies have a ring to it. Kinda like Runs with Wolves.:D

Seriously though, you guys spend a lot of time and effort to help others, day in and day out, and it is always well thought out and informed advice. I just hate to see anyone post anything that might make you feel less deserving in any way.

Dave With Few Answers is glad he could at least brighten your day.

DoubleDAZ

01-06-08, 01:31 PM

Seriously though, you guys spend a lot of time and effort to help others, day in and day out, and it is always well thought out and informed advice. I just hate to see anyone post anything that might make you feel less deserving in any way.I think all of us have developed pretty thick skins over the years. I just don't want anyone to think they aren't welcome here. We may take exception to the tone or phrasing of a post now and then, but that's just to try to make things better for everyone. If someone chooses not to take our advice, we will still offer it in the future, no hard feelings for the most part.

On that note, I'm not sure what my role will be here shortly though. Cox is converting to some new form of Passport from it's new owners, Gemstar/TVGuide. That means I won't have SARA anymore and will have to figure out a way to still maintain the First Post. I will probably enlist the help of someone (like RussB) willing to maintain it and send me a new version to post whenever changes are needed.

For those who don't know, Gemstar/TVGuide bought Aptiv and Passport back in March, probably why TWC has not upgraded lately. Cox has now licensed, not just leased, the software from them. That means Cox will be able to make their own enhancements. That can be good and bad. Good if they actually integrate TV with internet and phone service beyond just On-Screen Caller ID. Bad if all they do is add commercials and that sort of thing. :)

The new interface is supposed to let us manage recordings and other things via the TVGuide website, just like Tivo. While I have my reservations about the way Passport does some things, I'm looking forward to learning it and seeing how much more I can do and how much easier they will be. My reservsations are only because I've used it sparingly when visiting my daughter and I'm sure that if I can figure out SARA, I can adapt to Passport. :)

jsmiddleton4

01-06-08, 10:48 PM

Marketing and Double,

If this was the first time DaveH has pulled this crap, fine, I'd be out of line. Its not and he knows it.

davehancock

01-06-08, 11:03 PM

Marketing and Double,

If this was the first time DaveH has pulled this crap, fine, I'd be out of line. Its not and he knows it.What "Crap"? A request to make your postings more understandable? I asked this ONCE before, and quite likely will (as others should too) ask you again. It is a simple request, and makes postings here more relevant. Please be part of the community, not an antagonist.

DoubleDAZ

01-06-08, 11:33 PM

If this was the first time DaveH has pulled this crap, fine, I'd be out of line. Its not and he knows it.Sorry, but I don't understand and I've been reading these 8300 threads since the beginning. And, I don't stand by him simply because he is a friend. We all use terminology that offends someone from time to time, but we usually get past it.

In this case, I think we'd all like you to use the Quote function so we can view your comments/questions in context. Don't you see that simply adding quotation marks to random phrases/statements leaves a lot to be desired? I probably caught the context of your "format" post quicker because I authored the First Post it was taken from. The second one took a lot longer and I was shocked it came from so long ago. But the fact that 3 of us who are regulars here had trouble should tell you something, shouldn't it?

Please don't think I'm taking sides in this. I like DaveH and I thinks he's right, but that aside, just how many people do you think will pay attention to your comments if they have to do any research to figure out what you are trying to say? If you don't want to use the Quote function for some reason, fine, but it sure makes a difference when one click will bring the context into focus.

RussB

01-06-08, 11:45 PM

Cisco Puts Its Own Name On New Cable Set-Tops
CES Announcements Geared Around ‘Visual Networking’ Theme

By -- Multichannel News, 1/3/2008 11:41:00 AM

At the Consumer Electronics Show next week in Las Vegas, Cisco Systems will announce new cable set-tops that will for the first time carry the Cisco brand -- replacing the long-time Scientific Atlanta moniker.

Cisco, which acquired Scientific Atlanta in 2006 in a deal worth $6.9 billion, has previously said it would consolidate consumer-oriented products around a common brand.

Ken Wirt, Cisco’s vice president of consumer marketing, said cable operators are already testing out set-top boxes in their labs with the Cisco brand. All new set-top products will be Cisco-branded, but Wirt noted that the company will not go back and rebrand existing SA product lines.

“Cisco’s profile with the consumer will be increased because there will be a bunch of boxes in their house with the Cisco logo on it that they interact with every day,” Wirt said.

The overarching theme for Cisco’s announcements next week will be “visual networking,” Wirt said, a phrase the company is using to refer to delivering any video to any device and providing personalized features.

“People want to watch video on their TV and their PC, and they want to watch the Internet video stuff on the TV, and they want to watch everything on mobile devices,” he said. “They want it to be a TV-like experience. It has to be ‘click and play’ and they want it to be very high quality -- vision is the highest developed of all human senses.”

http://www.multichannel.com/article/CA6516698.html

DoubleDAZ

01-06-08, 11:58 PM

Hopefully Cisco is aiming for the consumer retail market and not the lowest common denominator cableco market. I think it's about time we are allowed to chose the DVR, etc., of our choice, even from Wally World. :)

rentwist

01-07-08, 11:51 AM

DoubleDAZ

01-07-08, 12:05 PM

Most of us posters have some thickness to our skin. Others don't! They are easily offended and feel persecuted. Oh well, these boards are full of all kinds. I want to personally thank the "Daves" for all their help. I will continue to read and ask for help, "Humbly".I'm sure we all appreciate the kind sentiments, I know I do, but I've gained way more from this thread than I've given. Plus, so much of the First Post is due to others, especially vegggas who started it all, I am simply the Editor. :)

davehancock

01-07-08, 12:09 PM

Cox is converting to some new form of Passport from it's new owners, Gemstar/TVGuide. That means I won't have SARA anymore and will have to figure out a way to still maintain the First Post. I will probably enlist the help of someone (like RussB) willing to maintain it and send me a new version to post whenever changes are needed.

Dave, It would be neat if you would start a new thread about the Cox conversion from SARA to Passport. In the past, this has been unheard of, but I suspect we are now dealing with something different - OCAP. So I suspect that what you will experience an interesting "process". So it will be interesting for you to bring us along on the "journey" there.

DoubleDAZ

01-07-08, 12:16 PM

Dave, It would be neat if you would start a new thread about the Cox conversion from SARA to Passport. In the past, this has been unheard of, but I suspect we are now dealing with something different - OCAP. So I suspect that what you will experience an interesting "process". So it will be interesting for you to bring us along on the "journey" there.I plan on doing just that once we figure out just who of us is going to get it and when. I've already talked to vegggas and he will not have the time to devote to it. I want to reserve a few initial posts this time around too. Maybe I should just go ahead and do it now and bookmark it until I can get it added to the Master List.

philherz

01-07-08, 05:09 PM

RussB

01-08-08, 03:08 AM

DoubleDAZ,

If the post (click on the following link) is correct, I may not be using SARA by the end of 2008:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=12721249#post12721249

Comcast Corp., the nation's largest cable provider, will roll out the platform in all its markets by the end of 2008, Chief Executive Brian Roberts said in an interview with The Associated Press ahead of a speech Tuesday at the International Consumer Electronics Show.

DoubleDAZ

01-08-08, 09:02 AM

DoubleDAZ,

If the post (click on the following link) is correct, I may not be using SARA by the end of 2008:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=12721249#post12721249Yes, I've read that too. I didn't read it completely, so I don't know if Comcast is also moving to Gemstar/TVGuide's version of Passport, but I think they are. AFAIK, we will initially get the current version of Passport and then later get a newer version as tru2way (OCAP) implementation is completed. I know Cisco is rebranding all their products (no more SA), but I don't know what they are doing with SARA. No matter what happens, I'll still try to keep the First Post up to date as needed.

Carlp336

01-08-08, 10:30 AM

dunno if its been posted but can someone tell me the dimensions of the unit ?

stangbat

01-08-08, 10:48 AM

dunno if its been posted but can someone tell me the dimensions of the unit ?
From http://www.cisco.com/application/pdf/en/us/guest/products/ps8613/c1650/cdccont_0900aecd806c6913.pdf

15.6 in x 11.2 in x 3.25 in

strutter

01-08-08, 10:23 PM

davehancock

01-08-08, 10:29 PM

did ya'll see the chairman of comcast today at CES when he announced 1000 HD offerings to all areas served by them by the end of 2008? is there even that many channels available in HD? sure wish TWC would make a similar statement.1000 HD "offerings" does not mean 1000 HD channels. It means that during the course of a year that they will offer 1000 HD programs "On-Demand". That does not mean 1000 HD channels, (or even 50).

strutter

01-08-08, 10:46 PM

1000 HD "offerings" does not mean 1000 HD channels. It means that during the course of a year that they will offer 1000 HD programs "On-Demand". That does not mean 1000 HD channels, (or even 50).

i thought that too when he said "offerings" but the bar graph behind him showed directtv with 150 and comcast with 1000. that lead me to believe he meant channels since DTV has been pushing that they will have 150 HD channels soon. of course this graph could have been just marketing garbage comparing apples to oranges.

DoubleDAZ

01-08-08, 11:01 PM

Not sure what the 150 was referring to, but here's an aritcle I found discussing the 1,000 number:

DOW JONES NEWSWIRES

Comcast Corp. (CMCSA) said it is offering a series of major initiatives, including giving consumers more than 1,000 HD choices in 2008, adding additional HD movies, and enhancing its digital voice mail services.

The Philadelphia broadband cable network operator said it expects to launch later this year technology which delivers up to 160 megabits of data per second, allowing consumers to download a high-definition videos in four minutes.

The technology is expected to boost growth of Comcast's broadband service, which has been slowing.

Comcast also plans to offer more than 1,000 high-definition videos this year, including up to 300 movies on demand that may be free or included in a subscription or a pay-per-view service.

The company is also creating national "superservers" that will allow it to offer 6,000 movies on demand, 3,000 of them in high-definition format, without the requiring customers to get a new cable box.

The cable company also plans to launch its Fancast Web site, which has full TV episodes of old and new shows as well as some movies. The site also incorporates Fandango, the movie-ticket purchase portal Comcast acquired last year.

Comcast's TiVo service, which has been launched in New England, is projected to be deployed to a wider area as an add-on for a fee that Comcast will share with TiVo Inc.

In the area of digital voice, Comcast is rolling out a caller-ID service that pops up on TVs and computer screens of customers who buy its video, internet and phone package. With VTech, the company is developing a cordless phone with a mini-screen on which users can access email.

The phone, now in testing, also will offer viewable voice mail similar to Apple Inc.'s (AAPL) iPhone.

The initiatives were unveiled at the 2008 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.

http://money.cnn.com/news/newsfeeds/articles/djhighlights/200801080911DOWJONESDJONLINE000337.htm

davehancock

01-09-08, 11:12 AM

i thought that too when he said "offerings" but the bar graph behind him showed directtv with 150 and comcast with 1000. that lead me to believe he meant channels since DTV has been pushing that they will have 150 HD channels soon. of course this graph could have been just marketing garbage comparing apples to oranges.Exactly!:cool:

They (Comcast) started this crap a few months ago.

strutter

01-09-08, 02:23 PM

thanks DAZ. i hadnt read that. i was watching CES on G4 and they edited a lot of his anouncement out. this adds some clarity.

gordong11

01-09-08, 08:29 PM

MY HDMI post creapped out on my 8300HD, is there a way to move my saved programs onto a new one? I don't think there is but have to ask if anyone knows a way.

davehancock

01-09-08, 08:47 PM

MY HDMI post creapped out on my 8300HD, is there a way to move my saved programs onto a new one? I don't think there is but have to ask if anyone knows a way.No, the video bitstream recorded on the hard drive is encoded with a key that is unique to the 8300 that recorded it.

DoubleDAZ

01-09-08, 09:57 PM

MY HDMI post creapped out on my 8300HD, is there a way to move my saved programs onto a new one? I don't think there is but have to ask if anyone knows a way.Your best bet is to switch to Component and view your recordings before swapping the box. You could offload to VCR or DVD using the Copy To VCR function, but it would be SD.

DoubleDAZ

01-09-08, 10:00 PM

Exactly!:cool:

They (Comcast) started this crap a few months ago.This could have been discussing individual HD movies offered by both services per month to try to get a log up before DirecTV launches it's new HD OnDemand service, or whatever it is.

djarvis179

01-10-08, 01:12 AM

Does anyone know what the "small red lock" is in the upper right of the diagnostic screen thru channel 611? I can connect an external hard drive to the esata connector and my daughter has the same 8300 SD DVR and ext. HD wont work. She does not have this lock icon on her diag. screen???

DoubleDAZ

01-10-08, 08:35 AM

stangbat

01-10-08, 02:32 PM

Anyone notice a gradual color shift when watching HD content that has been recorded. I haven't had my 8300 long so my comment isn't based on a lot of usage. I have noticed this on scenes with tight face shots in Law & Order. A scene will start off and a someone's face will have a slight greenish tint to it. As the scene continues, the face will warm up a bit, shifting from the slight green tint to a more normal and appealing flesh tone (shifting to more red). A cut to another scene will start the whole process over again.

Or is this an NBC HD thing? Or am I just completely nuts. :D

davehancock

01-10-08, 08:37 PM

stangbat

01-10-08, 10:14 PM

May be a NBC thing or, more likely, a thing with your set. It is NOT the result of being recorded as the 8300 records the video bitstream EXACTLY as it comes in (except that it is encoded with a security key).
Thanks. I'll have to look closer at NBC. I haven't noticed it anywhere else.

2weeks

01-11-08, 05:25 PM

Seriously though, you guys spend a lot of time and effort to help others, day in and day out, and it is always well thought out and informed advice. I just hate to see anyone post anything that might make you feel less deserving in any way.

Dave With Few Answers is glad he could at least brighten your day.
Ditto.
I never knew that Chevron was a link to the original post:o
btw: My multi-quote icon never works. Is that a FireFox thing?
My new signature is !Dave

DoubleDAZ

01-11-08, 07:17 PM

davehancock

01-11-08, 07:30 PM

Nothing happens when I click it either and I use IE.Well, it works for me (Firefox 2.0.0.11). Didn't know what that was for till now either. Thanks!

Another reason for folks to use the quote button. :D

vegggas

01-12-08, 12:41 AM

Ditto.
I never knew that Chevron was a link to the original post:o
btw: My multi-quote icon never works. Is that a FireFox thing?
My new signature is !Dave

Nothing happens when I click it either and I use IE.

Well, it works for me (Firefox 2.0.0.11). Didn't know what that was for till now either. Thanks!

Another reason for folks to use the quote button. :D

Click all the Multi quotes (M.Quote) you want to address and then just use the single Quote or the last one to bring them all into a new message response, complete with correct codes. It sure beats hand building coded quotes.

vegggas

RussB

01-12-08, 02:21 AM

Speaking (posting) of features, is there any way to prevent the AVS Forum from resetting the new posts indication after a certain timeout period?

DoubleDAZ

01-12-08, 08:13 AM

Speaking (posting) of features, is there any way to prevent the AVS Forum from resetting the new posts indication after a certain timeout period?I've been wondering that for a long time. I can usually get though all the threads I read, but if I get into a long discussion (which I often do), the remaining threads no longer show up as new. I have resorted to using the browser back button to get back to the original list. Even then, when I go into a thread, it's not at the first post I haven't read. I have to look at the date/time to find the first unread post.

The other thing I miss is that I used to be able to click on "New Subscribed Threads" and it would show me all my threads. I could then look at that to find the threads I haven't read once the New flag had been reset. Now I have to use Quick Links to bring up this list.

Click all the Multi quotes (M.Quote) you want to address and then just use the single Quote or the last one to bring them all into a new message response, complete with correct codes. It sure beats hand building coded quotes.

vegggasThanks, vegggas, I would have never thought of that, but I'm sure it's somewhere in the Help/FAQs.

bugmenot55

01-12-08, 11:44 AM

I just came home with an 8300HD (Time Warner, SARA) and I have a couple of basic questions that have me stumped.

1) Some of my "season passes" (I miss my Tivo) have failed to record. I added a few dozen and I'm worried that they don't even exist. Is there a limit to the number of "record first runs" instances that the box can handle?

2) Is there a way to see what "season passes" have been entered, i.e. ones that don't show up in the scheduled recordings list because no new episodes are upcoming during the next week?

3) Is there a way to clear all "season passes" that I've entered if I want to start from scratch?

Thanks for your help.

stangbat

01-12-08, 02:11 PM

BobKat6

01-12-08, 02:39 PM

bugmenot55
1) Too unrealiable for me. Easy enough to set up week manually. But TV Guide misses "first run" too. So if I doubt TVG that's the only time I use "first run" by SA.

2) No. To my knowledge.

3) Resets the next time you set up same show. Again TMK

Bob
SA8300HD Comcast SARA 1.88.25.1

BobKat6

01-12-08, 02:41 PM

stangbat See #6729

Plenty of workarounds but firmware dictates which ones work best, your own preference too!

Bob
SA8300HD Comcast SARA 1.88.25.1

DoubleDAZ

01-12-08, 07:28 PM

1) Some of my "season passes" (I miss my Tivo) have failed to record. I added a few dozen and I'm worried that they don't even exist. Is there a limit to the number of "record first runs" instances that the box can handle?There is no limit that we are aware of, except maybe RAM. AFAIK, if there is no New episode in the IPG when you try to schedule a recording for First Run episodes, it will not be set. If you don't see it in the list, it doesn't exist. And, for the record, you can buy a Tivo HD that will work with cable. :)

2) Is there a way to see what "season passes" have been entered, i.e. ones that don't show up in the scheduled recordings list because no new episodes are upcoming during the next week?If they have been set as previously stated in #1 above, they will show in the list of scheduled recording as a placeholder with a date a week from the last successful recording (with SARA 1.89.x.x.) or 9 days out (SARA 1.88.x.x and earlier). However, if you reboot, all the placeholder dates are reset (at least with SARA 1.89.x.x). This has been discussed more than once, the last time was not too long ago, and there is some info in the First Post on this and a whole bunch of other subjects. If you haven't read it, I suggest you do.

3) Is there a way to clear all "season passes" that I've entered if I want to start from scratch?Again, if they are in the list, select them for editing and then cancel them. If they are not in the list, they don't exist.

DoubleDAZ

01-12-08, 07:44 PM

1) Too unrealiable for me. Easy enough to set up week manually. But TV Guide misses "first run" too. So if I doubt TVG that's the only time I use "first run" by SA.I don't understand that. As long as the IPG is correct, I've never missed a First Run recording. IMHO, if something is unreliable, it's not the software, it's the IPG data (maybe that's what you mean) and the only way to compensate for that is to record all epispodes. I guess I'm fortunate that whatever IPG database Cox uses here has been extremely reliable for the shows I record. Right now though, my wife's Y&R is not showing any New indicator, so I have the 8300 set for all episodes at any time. :)

RussB

01-13-08, 02:56 AM

. . .
If they have been set as previously stated in #1 above, they will show in the list of scheduled recording as a placeholder with a date a week from the last successful recording (with SARA 1.89.x.x.) or 9 days out (SARA 1.88.x.x and earlier). However, if you reboot, all the placeholder dates are reset (at least with SARA 1.89.x.x). This has been discussed more than once, the last time was not too long ago, and there is some info in the First Post on this and a whole bunch of other subjects. If you haven't read it, I suggest you do.Placeholder dates are not reset on SARA 1.88.x.x.

A placeholder has a blank description in the list of scheduled recordings. Just click on the Info button after highlighting the program name on the list of scheduled recordings.

RussB

01-13-08, 03:30 AM

I've been wondering that for a long time. I can usually get though all the threads I read, but if I get into a long discussion (which I often do), the remaining threads no longer show up as new. I have resorted to using the browser back button to get back to the original list. Even then, when I go into a thread, it's not at the first post I haven't read. I have to look at the date/time to find the first unread post.

The other thing I miss is that I used to be able to click on "New Subscribed Threads" and it would show me all my threads. I could then look at that to find the threads I haven't read once the New flag had been reset. Now I have to use Quick Links to bring up this list.

Thanks, vegggas, I would have never thought of that, but I'm sure it's somewhere in the Help/FAQs.The problem that I have with "New Subscribed Threads" is that once the New flag has been reset for a thread it no longer shows that thread. I used to use the back button on the browser but it didn't show the new posts, now I go to the "Subscription" page and either look at the date and time of the last post for the threads or use a spreadsheet to record the last post of all the new threads and then read the new posts based on my spreadsheet info. Having a spreadsheet is a pain but it is easier for me than trying to figure out which posts are new once the new indicator is reset.

CANNON-FODDER

01-13-08, 09:18 AM

... ...Edit: Sorry, forgot about Everest...

v/r,
C-F

DoubleDAZ

01-13-08, 09:50 AM

I have noticed twice that a scheduled program will record, and then the next instance that is supposed to record is on the wrong date. One instance I think I can explain, the second I cannot. Example: ER recorded correctly on Thursday (1/10), and then the next scheduled recording was set for Sat. (1/19). Of course ER is not on NBC on Saturday, 1/19 at 8:00 pm CST. My guide data only goes out one week so I can't schedule the next week's show until Friday. So I have to delete the scheduled recording, wait until Friday when the new guide data is available, and add it again so the date shows up correctly.Please read the First Post where it talks about Place-Holders. You don't have to delete and reschedule anything. The recording set for 1/19 is simply a place-holder (set for 9 days out in SARA 1.88.x.x) and will get reset to the correct date when the IPG is updated. Just keep checking the IPG to see when it gets updated (when ER gets highlighted on Thursday) and you'll be fine.

The other problem is trying to record Law & Order: Criminal Intent. The guide data states "Law & Order: Criminal Intent", but when I try and add the recording it says it is recording "Law & Order". Because of this it refuses to add Criminal Intent to my scheduled recordings, maybe because it thinks it is already recording a first run of Law & Order later in the evening?

Note that "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit" also has a colon in the title, but it records fine and when the show is scheduled it appears as "Law & Order: Special Victims Unit" in the list, not "Law & Order".This is a problem with the guide data. Sometimes there is a difference in the data displayed vs what is used to schedule a recording. I beleive there are separate fields or the one is truncated for some reason not apparent from what is displayed. If you'll give me a specific day and channel, I'll see if I can play with it a bit.
I am getting annoyed with some of this stuff.Welcome to the club, but much of this is covered in the First Post.

DoubleDAZ

01-13-08, 09:52 AM

The problem that I have with "New Subscribed Threads" is that once the New flag has been reset for a thread it no longer shows that thread. I used to use the back button on the browser but it didn't show the new posts, now I go to the "Subscription" page and either look at the date and time of the last post for the threads or use a spreadsheet to record the last post of all the new threads and then read the new posts based on my spreadsheet info. Having a spreadsheet is a pain but it is easier for me than trying to figure out which posts are new once the new indicator is reset.One thing that works for me is to press the CTRL button when selecting a new post to view. That opens a new tab and leaves the original list intact.

2weeks

01-13-08, 04:25 PM

I visited the Cisco booth at CES last week. My first question was where is the stb/HD-DVD recorder. It's doa:mad: Apparently there were not enough orders. This year they are pushing MoCA (http://mocalliance.org/en/index.asp)technology. This utilizes your existing cable to send multimedia to other rooms, including your pc. Yes, if it is in the approved format it can be moved from pc to stb & vice versa. Here are a couple pics.
Explorer 8552 (http://i16.tinypic.com/6sj9oc2.jpg)
back (http://i12.tinypic.com/82xw09j.jpg)
My camera phone does not have a flash, sorry. The standard HD is 160GB, but it can be increased if the cabelco requests.

stangbat

01-13-08, 08:03 PM

Please read the First Post where it talks about Place-Holders. You don't have to delete and reschedule anything. The recording set for 1/19 is simply a place-holder (set for 9 days out in SARA 1.88.x.x) and will get reset to the correct date when the IPG is updated. Just keep checking the IPG to see when it gets updated (when ER gets highlighted on Thursday) and you'll be fine.

This is a problem with the guide data. Sometimes there is a difference in the data displayed vs what is used to schedule a recording. I beleive there are separate fields or the one is truncated for some reason not apparent from what is displayed. If you'll give me a specific day and channel, I'll see if I can play with it a bit.
Welcome to the club, but much of this is covered in the First Post.
I have read the first post a few times and the placeholder info never clicked. Now I see what the deal is. Thanks for pointing that out.

If you want to check out your guide data, Law & Order: Criminal Intent and Law & Order are on Wednesday, back to back, starting at 8:00 CST on NBC.

Kilim

01-14-08, 11:15 AM

MarketingProf

01-14-08, 12:05 PM

Does anyone here with an SA 8300HD DVR Cablebox and an AVR that has Upconvert/Upscale feature (ie: Onkyo 875 or 905) notice any improvement and is it worth the extra few hundred dollars?
Does it make the SD Channels and HD Channels noticeably better?
Maybe post a comparison image of just the CableBox vs the AVR Upconverted/Upscale picture difference?

I am trying to decide if its worth it for me to get an AVR with Upconvert/Upscale features and for now, it looks like my CableBox is what would benefit the most from it if it can provide noticeable improvements.

I'm running the SA8300HD through an Integra DTC 9.8 with the highly regarded REON video processing chip.

The short answer to your question from my perspective is, it depends on the quality of the video processing in the receiver.

For example, the REON is a very good processor and I can tweak it to provide a range of settings to reduce/eliminate mosquito noise, macroblocking, random noise, etc. So, yes, it makes a significant difference for SD. I have the 8300 set to passthrough and I let the REON do its magic.

For HD, I used to let it passthrough the REON. This is a pain, because I have to go into the 9.8 menu (setup) and change the REON to "Through" mode.
To make matters more complicated, I rarely fire up my entire system to watch SD content, so the signal goes via component directly to my display. The only time I fire up the Integra is when there is an HD movie or show on (usually a concert) and I want to get the "movie" or "concert" experience.

So, you would think that I would just leave the REON off since I only fire up the Integra for HD content, and for that I really don't need it, right? Sorry, but I also want the REON to process SD DVD content coming in at 480i since it does a better job than upconversion within the players (Toshiba A2, PS3, and Oppo 980H), and it upconverts to match my display.

Bottom line? I leave the REON on. EVen though the HD coming from the 8300 gets processed when it doesn't have to, I can't tell any difference.

See, more than you probably ever cared to know, right? :)

I can't take pics, but I hope this helps some.

David