merc,

Do you know if your cable software is SARA or Passport? Here it is Passport. Perhaps there is an incompatibility with Passport.

Cynthia

Cynthia,

Good Question. I have no idea since I am using NO TWC stuff other than the Cablecard... but, IIRC, the local TWC SA DVR is using Sara now. So... maybe that means my Sony cablecard is doing so too???

I've had my DHG-HDD500 for about a week. We subscribe to Comcast here in SF. Sorry, I didn't get a good look at the cablecard before Comcast installed it. I've got it hooked up to my Sony TV via HDMI.

PQ: Like most folks who have posted here, I think the PQ on this is fantastic. I can't see any difference between the PQ using this unit and the PQ when I piped the picture directly into my TV. (On my old Replay, the compression was painfully obvious.)

TVG: The guide has slowly filled in, with blocks of listings missing for night programming at Day +7. I'm hoping that eventually I'll have full listings for 8 days but I'm not there yet. The descriptions are somewhat less full than Replay's and the navigation is less intuitive (I seem to hit Select when I should hit Menu, and vice versa).

Recording Interface: OK, the software is less robust than my old Replay's. No ability to search program descriptions (need to review all Baseball listings rather than searching for "San Francisco Giants"). As others have noted, no ability to set up "Channels" or "Favorites" that record based on themes. One does have the ability to search for programs based on category (e.g.. HDTV programs) but it's often incomplete (HBO's HDTV programming is not listed).

Although there is no ability to group recorded shows by subject matter once you've recorded them, the list of recorded programs is well-organized. Yes, it took me a while to figure out that the manual's instructions on how to play recorded programs is just flat wrong but once I did, I found Sony's system easy to use. (For example, every Seinfeld episode I record is kept in the same place, regardless of when I taped it or from which network.)

Most people won't care but I used to record DVDs from Netflix on to my Replay hardrive through component inputs for later watching. But the HDD-500 only has a cable input.

Reliability: Where the rubber meets the road, and I'm sorry to say I've encountered problems. I've had a couple of programs fail to record, one on TCM and one HBO. I've actually been watching while this happens. The unit tunes to the correct channel, starts to record and then stops within a second or two. This has me baffled. I've reviewed the "Recording History" (hey, good for Sony for including this) and it gives me an error message "Recording not permitted by service provider." I've then tried setting it to record the program using the record button on the remote but the red "record" dot on the listing disappears after a second and nothing happens. The only "solution" I've found is to unplug the unit.

My Replay was not 100% reliable, but it was usually a tuning issue between it and the cable box. Anyone else encounter this? I almost wonder whether this is a DRM issue (my wife warned me about buying hardware from a content provider, I hope she's wrong about this).

Remote: OK this is minor, but a mute button would have been nice. The scroll wheel was a little mystifying at first but it's growing on me. Ablity to program to ff 30 seconds is nice, but I miss Commercial Advance.

With the exception of the missed programs, I'm generally pleased with the unit. But I think Sony still has work to do, and the lack of an internet connection (not to mention the disabled USB port) leads me to conclude that Sony doesn't plan to upgrade software on these units. Hope I'm wrong.

Anyway, I'm think I'm going to stick with this for now. The PQ makes up for things I wish Sony had done differently. Have I mentioned it's fantastic? My feelings may change, however, the first time I get the "Recording not permitted" message instead of a program I actually care about.

Reliability: Where the rubber meets the road, and I'm sorry to say I've encountered problems. I've had a couple of programs fail to record, one on TCM and one HBO. I've actually been watching while this happens. The unit tunes to the correct channel, starts to record and then stops within a second or two. This has me baffled. I've reviewed the "Recording History" (hey, good for Sony for including this) and it gives me an error message "Recording not permitted by service provider." I've then tried setting it to record the program using the record button on the remote but the red "record" dot on the listing disappears after a second and nothing happens. The only "solution" I've found is to unplug the unit.Wow... this sounds like a Broadcast Flag Problem. I'd contact Comcast and tell them to turn off the Broadcast Flags for those channels so your DVR can timeshift them.

Jeesh, and some folks said that Hollywood would never use the "Record Never" Broadcast Flag. :rolleyes:

I haven't searched this thread enough to know if others have had this problem, but initially my unit didn't find any of the HD stations. I could punch them in manually, but they didn't show up in the TVGuide. I was about to post this here and ask for help, when I decided to "be a man" and try to figure it out before asking for directions. :) (My excuse to my wife on why men don't ask for directions is that we are problem solvers and there isn't always someone to ask. Jim Bridger didn't have an Indian around every corner to direct him to the next pass through the mountains).

Anyway, when I went into the set up channels menu I found that all of the digital channels were turned off and I had to supply the number to tune. Perhaps this is because I don't have digital cable or a cable card and nobody at Comcast seems to realize that we still get the local digital stations. Anyone else have this problem? Now I have to hope that the guide info also fills in so I know what I am recording.

The program guide for the analog channels is filling in nicely. I will be all ready for the Tour de France at the beginning of July. Lew

Wow... this sounds like a Broadcast Flag Problem. I'd contact Comcast and tell them to turn off the Broadcast Flags for those channels so your DVR can timeshift them.

Jeesh, and some folks said that Hollywood would never use the "Record Never" Broadcast Flag. :rolleyes:

Once again, someone confusing the Firewire / 5C / DTCP rules with the broadcast flag.

Jeesh, and some folks said that people wouldn't mislead to push some agenda. :rolleyes:

Once again, someone confusing the Firewire / 5C / DTCP rules with the broadcast flag.Actually Rogo, the Sony HDD500 doesn't have firewire. The only connection involved in this case is a coax cable which brings in the Comcast Cable Signals. Go back and read this thread to find the link to the Sony user manual in order to become better acquainted with this unit.

Jeesh, and some folks said that people wouldn't mislead to push some agenda.As for agendas, why not remind us what YOU do for a living again so we can understand what side you are speaking for and whose agenda you are pushing. ;)

After going back and reading Intel's Firewire/5C/DTCP specs, unless the Sony unit has a firewire (or potentially USB) connection, internally, connecting the HDTV Tuner part, with the DVR part, the spec doesn't seem to cover using this copy protection in this method.

If, this copy protection can be applied to initial broadcasts, using the Copy Never setting, then that is sad that the public now has another broadcast block, on top of the Broadcast Flag, being placed upon their ability to control how and when we watch media we've had braodcast into our homes. :(

It does sound like your local cable company is sending CCI bits set to Copy Never for HBO & TCM. CCI comes through the cablecard, it has nothing to do with the FCC Broadcast Flag (which is for ATSC OTA). Cable is much more restrictive than the FCC's BF proposal (D.FAST licensing is very strict). Maybe you can call up your cable company and convince them to change HBO/TCM from Copy Never to Copy Once.

Per my post above, the information on the digital channels is now filling in nicely. I believe this unit is a keeper. Now if I could just find something in HD that I want to record.. ;) Lew

Now if I could just find something in HD that I want to record..Lew,
If you have it, check out Discovery HD. That channel is addictive... I turn it on and two hours later I'm still watching. :) I also have HDNet(2) and IMHD(2) channels which occasionally show something worth watching too.

I've been waiting with interest for this Sony DVR to become available. Now that it is, the generally positive reviews so far are encouraging (perfection not expected in this first generation). Two things are holding me back (these are confirmed via emails with Sony reps): (1) HDMI connection to HDTV means component out on DVR is inactive, meaning when I want to transfer non-HD DVR recorded program to DVD recorder via component connections, I have to physically detach the HDMI cable from the DVR, and (2) I can't shorten a recorded program on the DVR freeing up space (manually record 90 minutes of a 60 minute scheduled program in case it runs late, then delete the last 30 minutes when I confirm that it ran for the scheduled 60 mins.)

By the way I thought I saw somewhere in here that someone transferred an HD program recorded on the DVR to a (non-HD) DVD recorder. Can that actually be done with good (albeit non-HD) results?

My ideal setup is to have an HD DVR with HDMI out and from which I can easily transfer to DVD for short term (watch on a TV in another room before erasing the DVD for re-use -- can't afford multiple DVRs at current prices, and technology for central house media storage and room-by-room control and access to that currently not ready) and for which programs on the DVR can be edited to free up hard disk space. HD DVD recorders aren't available but I'd be happy even if I could transfer HD programs from the DVR to non-HD DVDs for short term use.

Lew,
If you have it, check out Discovery HD. That channel is addictive... I turn it on and two hours later I'm still watching. :) I also have HDNet(2) and IMHD(2) channels which occasionally show something worth watching too.

Merc, I just have basic cable, which is why this machine interested me. I don't have time for a lot of TV watching, but time shifting will let me choose carefully. Now that I have a program guide I will keep an eye on my local PBS HD. They show a lot of good stuff and now I can time shift it. Lew

<TVG: The guide has slowly filled in, with blocks of listings missing for night programming at Day +7. I'm hoping that eventually I'll have full listings for 8 days but I'm not there yet. The descriptions are somewhat less full than Replay's and the navigation is less intuitive (I seem to hit Select when I should hit Menu, and vice versa).>

Just bought a 250 at Fry's (they had a one day sale that was irresistable). Is the guide an all or nothing kind of thing? I have an OTA antenna and a Comcast basic cable feed plugged into my system. Being the impatient sort, after 6 hours of leaving the unit off, I didn't have any guide data. The clock had been set, though.

Also, are there certain analog stations, that in the SF Bay Area the Gemstar signal is broadcast? If anyone knows what those stations are, that would be great. I'll make certain not to delete them.

I'll provide more detailed reports as I actually start to dig into it.

Thanks

sjyang

Yes, a list of what stations in what major metropolitan areas broadcast the data would be very helpful.

I've answered my own question. My guide is now updated. There are an awful lot of channels to navigate.

If I am only interested in HD OTA, not satellite or cable, is the Sony HD DVR DHG-HDD a winner, or is there some other universally accepted “top notch” HDTV tuner? Would anyone predict there would be a minimal difference between this Sony unit and let’s say a LG LST3410A ? :confused:

Any input would be great.

Thanks,
-jerry

Anyone have any issues with the Sony passing the Dolby Digital 5.1 signal over Optical?

Haven't experimented enough to see if it's really a problem (namely haven't tried to find programs that I know are broadcasting the DD5.1 signals). Can someone recommend a few programs that are reliably transmitted with DD5.1 so I can test?

Thanks

sjyang

If I am only interested in HD OTA, not satellite or cable, is the Sony HD DVR DHG-HDD a winner, or is there some other universally accepted “top notch” HDTV tuner? Would anyone predict there would be a minimal difference between this Sony unit and let’s say a LG LST3410A ? :confused:

Any input would be great.

Thanks,
-jerry

There is a seperate thread that is over a year old on the LG unit. You might do a search there on DHG and LST3410A and find some discussion of differences. For starters, the small Sony has over twice the hard drive space, can use a cable card for scrambled stations, and can view a recorded program while another is being recorded. You still need another tuner to watch a live HD show while recording one. (I know you are only talking about OFA right now, but sometime down the road your needs may change).

The LG has a firewire output that is supposed to allow archiving to a Digital VHS unit. The original reviewer couldn't get it to work, but that was a year and a half ago.

Good luck, Lew

Dear Lew,

Thanks for the feedback. That was exactly what I needed. I think I will give the Sony a try. :)

Cheers,
-jerry

Anyone have any issues with the Sony passing the Dolby Digital 5.1 signal over Optical?

Haven't experimented enough to see if it's really a problem (namely haven't tried to find programs that I know are broadcasting the DD5.1 signals). Can someone recommend a few programs that are reliably transmitted with DD5.1 so I can test?

Thanks

sjyang


Optical works perfectly for me. That's all I use.

I ordered this unit on Wednesday, from Vann's, it arrived yesterday, and all is working perfectly: clock was set within 3 hours, and the guide full after overnight. I was upgrading from a Panasonic TU-HDS20 for just OTA HDTV, and this is our first DVR. The only thing which I can't figure out is that there are two stations whose digital channels did not load, which I use to get with the older unit (in the SF Bay Area: the KQED digital channels 9.1-9.6, and KBWB-DT 20.1). Does anyone have any thoughts with what I can try to receive those last few OTA stations?

Thanks,
Rick

The only thing which I can't figure out is that there are two stations whose digital channels did not load, which I use to get with the older unit (in the SF Bay Area: the KQED digital channels 9.1-9.6, and KBWB-DT 20.1). Does anyone have any thoughts with what I can try to receive those last few OTA stations?

As per KQED, it is unfortunate that the time of day you scan makes a difference in terms of the channels you locate. Since 9.3, 9.4, and 9.5 shut down after 8:00 PM, you have to perform your channel scan before 8:00.

Poke around in the menus for your unit and you will discover a menu item that allows you to rescan and add channels. Do this tomorrow morning....

As far as 20.1 goes, I don't know. Perhaps they were having problems at the time of your scan. Perhaps they will show up when you rescan as well.

Now, how come I am unable to get guide data for KQED_DT?

As per KQED, it is unfortunate that the time of day you scan makes a difference in terms of the channels you locate. Since 9.3, 9.4, and 9.5 shut down after 8:00 PM, you have to perform your channel scan before 8:00.

Poke around in the menus for your unit and you will discover a menu item that allows you to rescan and add channels. Do this tomorrow morning....

As far as 20.1 goes, I don't know. Perhaps they were having problems at the time of your scan. Perhaps they will show up when you rescan as well.

Now, how come I am unable to get guide data for KQED_DT?


The channels you get from "scanning" and the channels that are in the guide are two entirely different things. You don't have to have a channel in the scan list to tune it via the guide. If you have a digital channel missing from the guide, then find the associated "analog" version of the missing channel and edit it to specify the digital channel number. It worked for me.

If you'd like to report a missing channel to Gemstar or have other questions, call 800-386-7380. You won't likely get to speak to someone immediately, but they will return the call if you leave a message.

I monitored this forum, somewhat, and thought to give the Sony DHG-HDD250 version a chance. Purchased it at ABT Electronics locally for its “sale price” ($130) less than any advertised price I had seen at “Sony authorized” and less than not authorized resellers. (I was told that was important). I picked up the unit on Saturday. Set up connections on Saturday. Within the hour I had the time and a list of local channels but no program details. Let the unit sit from 8 PM until 8 AM and had all the program details and listings. Unit is as good as or better than expected. Picture quality is extraordinary. I love to have a DVR that does not feed the purses of the money grabbers for subscriptions to a service, TV Listings, that are already paid for by broadcasting networks.

Nice product in this new and slow growing market.

P.S. It’s probably time that this forum break off into smaller more useful segments

Thanks, I tried once already, as well as manually tuning those stations, and all I get is "no signal". I'll keep trying.

My daughter, who will be going away to college in the fall, thinks I need to store all her WB shows in HD until winter break! HA! I bought this toy for me :-)

Rick

Thanks, I tried once already, as well as manually tuning those stations, and all I get is "no signal". I'll keep trying.

My daughter, who will be going away to college in the fall, thinks I need to store all her WB shows in HD until winter break! HA! I bought this toy for me :-)

Rick

When you tune to a channel that indicates "no signal", go to the "Preferences/System/System Menu" area and you'll be able to see the signal strength of the station you're tuned to at the bottom of the screen. I don't know yet what the signal strength threshold is for when you start to see picture and hear audio. The weakest channel I get has a strength of "77%", but it's solid reception with zero breakups or pixellation. I would guess that for some reason your signal is not strong enough or not getting from the antenna to the box. Did you add any cabling or splitters when you installed the Sony? If possible, try a different single cable from the antenna straight to the box and see if the signal loss is in your existing cabling. Mine picks up signals as good or better than the other three STB's I have (which all work very well), so I would bet the Sony is not the problem. You can also use this diagnostic screen to aim your antenna as well. Just watch (or have someone else watch) the signal meter and turn the antenna until you have maximum signal strength.

First time my unit skipped a scheduled recording. I set it to Universal HD to record U571 tonight at 9:00pm. My unit was not showing the red recording in the front led display. I turned my setup on and it wasn't recording. I tried a manual recording and it wouldn't allow me to record it...I recorded Bring it On with no problems from UD...Anyone else encounter this problem???

When you tune to a channel that indicates "no signal", go to the "Preferences/System/System Menu" area and you'll be able to see the signal strength of the station you're tuned to at the bottom of the screen. I don't know yet what the signal strength threshold is for when you start to see picture and hear audio. The weakest channel I get has a strength of "77%", but it's solid reception with zero breakups or pixellation.


Thanks - I reran the auto-scan, and third time's the charm. All the channels came in (plus a couple of others I didn't even know were in the area). I did do some fiddling with the connections going into the box, so maybe...???

Rick

I ordered this unit on Wednesday, from Vann's, it arrived yesterday, and all is working perfectly: clock was set within 3 hours, and the guide full after overnight.


Were you able to get a full 7 days of data for the Guide? I bought my unit last week and seem to have been getting a rolling 2.5 days of data in the SF Bay Area (I'm trying to be patient and leave the unit off for extended periods of time).

Thanks

sjyang

First time my unit skipped a scheduled recording. I set it to Universal HD to record U571 tonight at 9:00pm. My unit was not showing the red recording in the front led display. I turned my setup on and it wasn't recording. I tried a manual recording and it wouldn't allow me to record it...I recorded Bring it On with no problems from UD...Anyone else encounter this problem???

Kong, when you open "Recording History," does it show an error message for the time/program you were trying to record? I have encountered this problem, discussed in an earlier post, and get a "Recording not permitted by service provider" message.

Were you able to get a full 7 days of data for the Guide? I bought my unit last week and seem to have been getting a rolling 2.5 days of data in the SF Bay Area (I'm trying to be patient and leave the unit off for extended periods of time).

Thanks

sjyang

Same as you, but that is consistant with the way the TVGuide data has been described earlier in this thread. You get first 2 days, plus day#8 on the first load, and then a day each following day (plus the +8 day). If you scroll to the end of this week, you should see the guide filled in there, too. Too bad that is the way it was implemented (seems weird), but it is working as advertised.

Would have been nice if Sony had put an ethernet port on the unit (or even use the USB), so that we could do broadband download.

Rick

Spahrkee ,

That is the message "Recording not permitted by service provider" ...It is seems to be a problem if it is a movies "premiere" on Universal channel. Slingblade did the same thing for me...I looked in the history like you stated...

Kong, well as you'll see in the thread there are a couple of theories floating around about why this happens, but I've experienced it on a couple of HBO channels and TCM. Only sporadically, can't see any rhyme or reason for it.

Spahrkee ,

That is the message "Recording not permitted by service provider" ...It is seems to be a problem if it is a movies "premiere" on Universal channel. Slingblade did the same thing for me...I looked in the history like you stated...
kong, I understand that the message "Recording not permitted by service provider" in the recording history is shown when the program is copy protected.

On Amazon someone posted this criticism:

made the mistake of buying this unit to soon without doing my home work. 1. The TV Guide On Screen is limited to 3 digit numbers ( 999 max ) which is just stupid given the fact that some free ( atleast in my area ) HD broadcasts use 4 digit numbers. So in CHANNEL EDITOR, I can't replace a SD channel number with a HD channel because the tune channel field won't accept a 4 digit number. What a stupid limitation!

Could someone explain to me what it means.

We have a SONY TV with a built in HD clearQam tuner. The network HD channels come in as channels 1XX.xx(x).

Would those channels not be able to be tuned in with this DVR.

On Amazon someone posted this criticism:

made the mistake of buying this unit to soon without doing my home work. 1. The TV Guide On Screen is limited to 3 digit numbers ( 999 max ) which is just stupid given the fact that some free ( atleast in my area ) HD broadcasts use 4 digit numbers. So in CHANNEL EDITOR, I can't replace a SD channel number with a HD channel because the tune channel field won't accept a 4 digit number. What a stupid limitation!

Could someone explain to me what it means.

We have a SONY TV with a built in HD clearQam tuner. The network HD channels come in as channels 1XX.xx(x).

Would those channels not be able to be tuned in with this DVR.

This would be a limitation for Cable Card users on TWC-Austin. All the encrypted HD channels start in the 1500's here.

Alan

Thanks

On Amazon someone posted this criticism:

made the mistake of buying this unit to soon without doing my home work. 1. The TV Guide On Screen is limited to 3 digit numbers ( 999 max ) which is just stupid given the fact that some free ( atleast in my area ) HD broadcasts use 4 digit numbers. So in CHANNEL EDITOR, I can't replace a SD channel number with a HD channel because the tune channel field won't accept a 4 digit number. What a stupid limitation!

Could someone explain to me what it means.

We have a SONY TV with a built in HD clearQam tuner. The network HD channels come in as channels 1XX.xx(x).

Would those channels not be able to be tuned in with this DVR.

Are you serious? That is unbelievable.. The majority of the HD channels in the Bay area have 4 digits - e.g. KQED 117.2, KGO 117.1, Discovery HD 115.4, ESPN-HD 116.1 (or.2?), INHD1 105.1, INHD2 105.2 etc. etc.

Call Sony and ask them. If this is truly the case, then it's inability to function as a recorder for HD cable channels makes it basically useless, at least without a Cable Card.

peter
p.s. I wouldn't blame myself for "not doing my homework" on this one... ;-)

It does sound like your local cable company is sending CCI bits set to Copy Never for HBO & TCM. CCI comes through the cablecard, it has nothing to do with the FCC Broadcast Flag (which is for ATSC OTA). Cable is much more restrictive than the FCC's BF proposal (D.FAST licensing is very strict). Maybe you can call up your cable company and convince them to change HBO/TCM from Copy Never to Copy Once.Excellent information. This seems to describe my exact predicament with Albany Time Warner Cable. With their CableCARD I get all NTSC/PCM audio using digital optical audio to my DD receiver but no ATSC/DD. The receiver senses the ATSC signal, flips to DD Pro Logic mode and then the sound output stops. Of course no one I can actually speak to at Time Warner knows anything about CableCARD technology and the back-end technicians won't take phone calls... very frustrating. What are the chances this provider will flip-the-bit-settings to enable sound output?

Are you serious? That is unbelievable.. The majority of the HD channels in the Bay area have 4 digits - e.g. KQED 117.2, KGO 117.1, Discovery HD 115.4, ESPN-HD 116.1 (or.2?), INHD1 105.1, INHD2 105.2 etc. etc.

Call Sony and ask them. If this is truly the case, then it's inability to function as a recorder for HD cable channels makes it basically useless, at least without a Cable Card.

peter
p.s. I wouldn't blame myself for "not doing my homework" on this one... ;-)

You are OK with channels separated by the "." (or "-" if you prefer) so the guide won't have any trouble with channels such as 123.456. The problem that the Austin, TX guy is having is that his cable company has some CableCard digital channels remapped to over 999.

Excellent information. This seems to describe my exact predicament with Albany Time Warner Cable. With their CableCARD I get all NTSC/PCM audio using digital optical audio to my DD receiver but no ATSC/DD. The receiver senses the ATSC signal, flips to DD Pro Logic mode and then the sound output stops. Of course no one I can actually speak to at Time Warner knows anything about CableCARD technology and the back-end technicians won't take phone calls... very frustrating. What are the chances this provider will flip-the-bit-settings to enable sound output?

I was referring to CCI (Copy Control Information) bits in regards to why some people encountered their recordings not going through on certain channels. As far as the SPDIF problem you are encountering, I'm not exactly sure what is going on there. In the menu (Sony's, not the Tv Guide), go to preferences then audio then dolby digital, is it set to Auto On?

Same as you, but that is consistant with the way the TVGuide data has been described earlier in this thread. You get first 2 days, plus day#8 on the first load, and then a day each following day (plus the +8 day). If you scroll to the end of this week, you should see the guide filled in there, too. Too bad that is the way it was implemented (seems weird), but it is working as advertised.

Would have been nice if Sony had put an ethernet port on the unit (or even use the USB), so that we could do broadband download.

Rick

Thanks that's helpful and my guide did fill out with a full 8 days. While setting up the TV Guide was a pain, I'm actually quite happy with the PQ and the performance thus far.

BTW, the unit does have a USB port, though at this time, it's declared "reserved for future use".


sjyang

I was referring to CCI (Copy Control Information) bits in regards to why some people encountered their recordings not going through on certain channels. As far as the SPDIF problem you are encountering, I'm not exactly sure what is going on there. In the menu (Sony's, not the Tv Guide), go to preferences then audio then dolby digital, is it set to Auto On?Right, but your information basically confirms the problem I'm experiencing as described by this:

"CCI is information that describes the duplication rules for an item of digital content. It is intended to reduce illegal duplication and subsequent distribution of video and audio content subject to copyright restrictions. Content providers indicate illegal duplication and distribution of entertainment content as a leading cause of revenue loss. Although copying of content by analog equipment such as VHS VCRs would still be possible and has been ongoing for many years, the content copied to such devices is stored at a reduced quality level because of the nature of that equipment and the storage medium. Digital storage devices would have no inherent qualities such that the copied content would be reduced in quality. In fact, such equipment would be capable of “perfect” storage of the original digital content. This “perfect” storage capability is a primary motivation for the requirement to include CCI information in all “high value” content. In the case of the CableCARD/Host interface, a specification exists that describes how content that has been decrypted by the CableCARD module must be re-encrypted on the CableCARD-Host interface if the CCI value for the content indicates that it is “high value”. Hosts that receive content from the CableCARD module that is marked with “high value” CCI must also protect that content on any of its digital outputs, such as a 1394 output. Inclusion of CCI support in the CableCARD module and Host as well as the system infrastructure is required to protect high value content. Newer set-top-boxes (STBs) with embedded security will also include digital outputs requiring system infrastructure support to protect high value content. CCI will be carried along with digital content steams from the headend and can be set on a service-byservice basis with the installation of DAC release 2.97. The four possible values that CCI may take on and their meaning are indicated in the table below:

CCI Information

CCI Text Description

Copy Freely ------- Any number of copies may be produced.
Copy No More ---- A copy of the content has already occurred and no more copies are permitted.
Copy Once -------- Only one copy of the content is permitted.
Copy Never ------- Copying of the content is never permitted."

I believe my CATV provider: Albany Time Warner, has set the CCI value to "high" on most of the digital channels thus rendering the optical audio out interface of my TV inoperable. It is interesting to note I do receive DD on the local HD channels: ABC-HD, NBC-HD, CBS-HD, FOX-HD, PBS-HD & ESPN-HD; but not on 100s of other digital channels. My assumption is if Albany Time Warner would modify the Copy Never setting and change it to Copy Once this would meet both goals of protecting their digital content and enable the subscriber to fully use their in-home digital devices receiving the full digital signal being paid for.

Interesting - where is your CCI information quoted from? I'd like to do a bit more reading on this.

peter
p.s. edit update - thanks for the source!

Interesting - where your CCI informatoin quoted from? I'd like to do a bit more reading on this.

peterHere is 'the source' (http://broadband.motorola.com/catalog/product_documents/CableCARDpaper_sept03.pdf) I used for my quote.

Optivity, if that were the case (TW Albany's CCI bits = Copy Never or Copy No More), then you wouldn't be able to schedule records for any of those channels. Is that the case for you? If not, then it's not the CCI bits that are causing your SPDIF loss on those channels. Again, did you check to see if your Dolby Digital setting is Auto On in the Sony preference menu? I don't believe the Sony box would shut off the SPDIF output for any CCI setting. I wonder if maybe your audio receiver is doing it.

Optivity, if that were the case (TW Albany's CCI bits = Copy Never or Copy No More), then you wouldn't be able to schedule records for any of those channels. Is that the case for you? If not, then it's not the CCI bits that are causing your SPDIF loss on those channels. Again, did you check to see if your Dolby Digital setting is Auto On in the Sony preference menu? I don't believe the Sony box would shut off the SPDIF output for any CCI setting. I wonder if maybe your audio receiver is doing it.I may be confused! :confused:

If so, it won't be the first time... I'll have to check my set-up tonight and get back to you. If interested... my receiver is an Onkyo TX-SR600 and the owner's manual can be viewed 'here.' (http://www.us.onkyo.com/download/own_manuals.cfm?cat=Receiver)

I'm once again shopping for an HD DVR (since LG is buying back my 3410A). So, being somewhat leery after that experience, I have some questions that have not been addressed in this thread:

1) Does a power off command turn off the unit during a timer or manual recording? (Yes, the LG unfortunately did this.)

2) Does the unit continue to buffer the current channel while you play back a previous recording?

3) Have any discreet codes been found yet? (Can't find any at remotecentral.com.)

4) One person mentioned that tuning HD channels takes a LONG time. Do others agree?

5) The manual shows no capability for editing programs or even the program titles. Is this function indeed lacking?

Thanks.

In an earlier portion of this thread, I had talked about my recorder not being able to pull in HBO and Cinemax with a CableCARD installed. About a month has passed, and the issued is finally resolved. Initially, my cable company had blamed Sony. Sony went through a series of diagnostics with me and told me it was the cable company.

I had a tech come out today, and we went through another round of diagnostics, and he happened to catch someone in the main office that knew exactly what the problem was. They re-entered the info from the CableCARD Pairing screen and everything is now fine.

I have to say, I am really enjoying this recorder. The only dings I have against it are the lack of a second tuner (and that's a small one for me) and the lack of more Guide sorting options (how about one that sorts by channel number?...easily worked around, but still).

In an earlier portion of this thread, I had talked about my recorder not being able to pull in HBO and Cinemax with a CableCARD installed. About a month has passed, and the issued is finally resolved. Initially, my cable company had blamed Sony. Sony went through a series of diagnostics with me and told me it was the cable company.

I had a tech come out today, and we went through another round of diagnostics, and he happened to catch someone in the main office that knew exactly what the problem was. They re-entered the info from the CableCARD Pairing screen and everything is now fine.

I have to say, I am really enjoying this recorder. The only dings I have against it are the lack of a second tuner (and that's a small one for me) and the lack of more Guide sorting options (how about one that sorts by channel number?...easily worked around, but still).This is what is so frustrating/annoying/scary :eek: :eek: :eek: about CATV support. Plus you have to take time off from work to accomodate their schedule.

This is what is so frustrating/annoying/scary :eek: :eek: :eek: about CATV support. Plus you have to take time off from work to accomodate their schedule.

Yeah, I agree. Fortunately, I work at home, so its easy for me to accomodate them. But I'm one of the lucky ones. :) The upside of this incident, though, is that as a result of this experience, the tech asked that a company wide memo be sent to all techs dealing with CableCARDs to deal with this situation. Hopefully, my having gone through this experience will spare someone else...plus I got a $25 credit for going through all this. ;)

Can you while playing a record show jump by 30 seconds, +30, +30
then back by 7 to 10 seconds?

Just a question, Thanks
Mike

Can you while playing a record show jump by 30 seconds, +30, +30
then back by 7 to 10 seconds?
Mike

This is configurable. The Advance and Replay buttons can each be configured to 2, 5, 15, 30, 60 or 300 seconds.

Yeah, I agree. Fortunately, I work at home, so its easy for me to accomodate them. But I'm one of the lucky ones. :) The upside of this incident, though, is that as a result of this experience, the tech asked that a company wide memo be sent to all techs dealing with CableCARDs to deal with this situation. Hopefully, my having gone through this experience will spare someone else...plus I got a $25 credit for going through all this. ;)Great! Ask your CATV provider to send their "company wide memo" to the CableCARD support people who work for Albany Time Warner. :rolleyes:

I'm once again shopping for an HD DVR (since LG is buying back my 3410A). So, being somewhat leery after that experience, I have some questions that have not been addressed in this thread:


4) One person mentioned that tuning HD channels takes a LONG time. Do others agree?


Thanks.

Can't really respond to your other questions, but I have found that this unit is significantly faster on the HD channels than my old Panasonic HDS20. I am very pleased with the tuning and quality.

Rick

I've looked at the local BB's and CC's but haven't seen the Sony HDD500 or 250 anywhere.

I'd much rather purchase locally than online for a unit this new.

Any ideas?

I've looked at the local BB's and CC's but haven't seen the Sony HDD500 or 250 anywhere.

I'd much rather purchase locally than online for a unit this new.

Any ideas?

I just saw one in a flyer for Fry's Electronics, if you have one of those.

Could someone that owns one of these PLEASE answer a few basic questions?

1) Can you watch a show you recorded previously while it is recording a current show?

2) Can you watch the beginning of a show while still recording the end of it?

3) While surfing the channel guide, is there a small window which shows what's playing on the current channel?

4) Can you have it automatically record any program with a certain word in the title or description, like you can with ReplayTV? I know you can manually search by keyword as often as you like, then setup a recording, but I'm wondering if you can setup a keyword once, and then have it record anything it finds with that keyword from that point forward.

5) Can you delete channels you don't want to see from the program grid?

Could someone that owns one of these PLEASE answer a few basic questions?

1) Can you watch a show you recorded previously while it is recording a current show?

2) Can you watch the beginning of a show while still recording the end of it?

3) While surfing the channel guide, is there a small window which shows what's playing on the current channel?

4) Can you have it automatically record any program with a certain word in the title or description, like you can with ReplayTV? I know you can manually search by keyword as often as you like, then setup a recording, but I'm wondering if you can setup a keyword once, and then have it record anything it finds with that keyword from that point forward.

5) Can you delete channels you don't want to see from the program grid?

1 & 2: I don't know; I haven't tried either. I would be stunned if it didn't since this is pretty much the same as pausing live TV (from a certain perspective). I'll try it out later and let you know.

3. Yes. This window can either be locked on the channel you were viewing, or show you the channel highlighted in the guide.

4. Name based recording of this type is not available.

5. Yes. You can turn off any channel from the guide.

1) Does a power off command turn off the unit during a timer or manual recording? (Yes, the LG unfortunately did this.)

2) Does the unit continue to buffer the current channel while you play back a previous recording?

3) Have any discreet codes been found yet? (Can't find any at remotecentral.com.)

4) One person mentioned that tuning HD channels takes a LONG time. Do others agree?

5) The manual shows no capability for editing programs or even the program titles. Is this function indeed lacking?


1. During a timer the unit powers off, but the recording continues. I don't know about a manual recording.

2. Yes.

3. Here's what I use on my Pronto:
On:
0000 0067 0000 0015 0060 0018 0018 0018 0030 0018 0030 0018 0030 0018 0018 0018 0030 0018 0018 0018 0018 0018 0030 0018 0018 0018 0030 0018 0030 0018 0018 0018 0030 0018 0018 0018 0018 0018 0030 0018 0030 0018 0030 0018 0018 01D8

Off:
0000 0067 0000 0015 0060 0018 0030 0018 0030 0018 0030 0018 0030 0018 0018 0018 0030 0018 0018 0018 0018 0018 0030 0018 0018 0018 0030 0018 0030 0018 0018 0018 0030 0018 0018 0018 0018 0018 0030 0018 0030 0018 0030 0018 0018 01C2

I found those with IRTool, MakeHex, and IRPanels. Very cool tools. While I was experimenting with the codes those tools generated, I generated a hard disk recovery a couple times. That got the heart racing a little bit the first time.

4. Doesn't seem like it's any longer than any of my other tuners. I only use it for OTA though.

5. I haven't found any way to do that.

1) Can you watch a show you recorded previously while it is recording a current show?

2) Can you watch the beginning of a show while still recording the end of it?




Yes for both 1 & 2.

GBrock,

Thanks much for the info. LG is buying back my 3410A, and I have the Sony on order. It looks like Sony has done a much better job in most ways.

My remote is the HTM MX-700. It uses it's own file format, but I can import codes from a .ccf file. Does your Pronto use .ccf's? If so, I'd like to PM you and maybe get a file with the discreet codes.

Or perhaps you could direct me to a site that has these in .ccf format.

4) One person mentioned that tuning HD channels takes a LONG time. Do others agree?
Here are my observations with respect to channel change speed...

The channel change speed seems to be influenced by the video output format setting (selectable with the Format button). The format choices can be grouped into two categories:

Fixed output formats (e.g., 1080i, 720p) - the box stays in the selected output format until you change it. Channel changes are reasonably quick (1-2 seconds) whether changing to an HD or SD channel.

Variable output format (e.g., Variable 1, 2, 3, Auto HDMI, Native) - The box changes the video output format to correspond to the format of the source content. Changing the output format seems to take a second or two. So channel changes that cause a format change take noticeable longer than in the fixed modes (maybe 2-4 seconds vs 1-2 seconds).

So if I'm channel surfing, I usually switch to 720p so I have fast channel changes. But most of the time I'm playing recorded content, so I just leave it in AutoHDMI mode.

The operator's manual does not recommend connecting a cable box to the cable-in jack. I still need a cable box because I plan on keeping the LG 3410a and need 2 tuners and will not want or need the Cablecard. I currently split the cable to both a JVC 30K DVHS and the LG 3410 and use a G Link to control the cable box from both. Does anyone know if this unit will control a cable box thru the G-link?
joe

Does the unit have only one coax input that toggles between ant and cable, or are there actually two separate inputs for these (and can the unit integrate the channels received from each)? I ask b/c the cable system here does not have certain local digital channels that I can pull in w/ an antenna, and it would be nice to be able to do so.

-Sketchy

Separate inputs and the Guide integrates them.

Well, I just got back from an almost two week vacation during which the power failed and stayed out more than four hours each time..... the Sony HDD500 worked perfectly, stored what I wanted for playback, and also operates perfectly with regqard to current HDTV Playback.

I've looked at the local BB's and CC's but haven't seen the Sony HDD500 or 250 anywhere.

I'd much rather purchase locally than online for a unit this new.

Any ideas?


Also in Mpls. area here bnaegele. I may bite the bullet and order online - save on the tax anyways. I haven't looked real hard, but haven't seen any available retail yet either.

Try your local Tweeter. When I got my $148 Mits dvhs closeout ( DE store) they showed me what replaced it- $999 HD Sony HD recorder.- Many new features but dvhs at $148 with firewire is $ effective- for now

**** FOR SONY DHG-HDD500 OWNERS PLEASE GIVE FEEDBACK ****

1 - Can you record HD channels that are 4 digits? (ie 1810, 1837, etc)?
2 - Does the TV Guide support 4 digit channel numbers?
3 - Does it have RCA inputs to record off satellite? Or is this a OTA/Cable only DVR?


Thank you.

I recently purchased the DHG-HDD250 HD DVR. I have hooked the device up via its component output into my KV-40XBR700 HD monitor.

Unfortunately, it appears that the DVR does not have its component black level turned on - if I attempt to calibrate to color bars, I wind up washing out the image just to be able to see pluge.

I am seeing this on the DVR's 1080i output setting, but not on its 480i/p output setting nor its composite or S-Video outputs. My Zenith HDV-420 HD Receiver outputs its component signal perfectly, as does my Sony progressive scan DVD player, so I'm pointing my finger at the DVR for not being configured correctly.

I know my way around the service menu on the HD monitor, but have been unable to find a way to correct the black level issue; basic pictures controls do nothing to help. The DVD player has a setting for the component black level setting, but there are no picture controls on the DVR.

Has anyone else experienced this? Is there any way to correct this black level issue? Does the DVR have a service menu, and if so, how do you access it? Is there a place that I can download/purchase the service manual for this device? Or is there an easier solution to this issue, aside from finding a happy medium with my settings, which personally, I find unacceptable considering I paid $800 for the DVR.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

**** FOR SONY DHG-HDD500 OWNERS PLEASE GIVE FEEDBACK ****

1 - Can you record HD channels that are 4 digits? (ie 1810, 1837, etc)?
2 - Does the TV Guide support 4 digit channel numbers?
3 - Does it have RCA inputs to record off satellite? Or is this a OTA/Cable only DVR?


Thank you.

1 & 2: dunno, not having cable. See discussions above.

3: No, you cannot record from another source, only the OTA/Cable inputs via the internal tuner

Rick

Unfortunately, it appears that the DVR does not have its component black level turned on - if I attempt to calibrate to color bars, I wind up washing out the image just to be able to see pluge.


Michael,

How are you getting the DHG-HDD250 to source the color bars? Do you have your TV set up for an NTSC black level of 7.5 IRE or an ATSC black level of 0 IRE? It sounds to me like your are using an NTSC black level which would explain why all the NTSC sources look fine and the ATSC does not.

-phil

I recently purchased the DHG-HDD250 HD DVR. I have hooked the device up via its component output into my KV-40XBR700 HD monitor.

Unfortunately, it appears that the DVR does not have its component black level turned on - if I attempt to calibrate to color bars, I wind up washing out the image just to be able to see pluge.
...

.

I had some initial problems with colors when I first hooked up my unit. They cleared up, completely, on about the 4th or 5th time I unplugged/replugged the component cables (from both the DVR and the TV). I attributed it to not getting a good connection, somewhere. Since then, the pictures and colors have been nothing but excellent.

Rick

PhilB,

I recorded the color bars from one of the stations once they signed off for the night. When I did this, I performed an A/B comparison between the Sony and the Zenith. The Zenith looked as I expected it to look, while the Sony had crushed blacks. When I brought my brightness up to see pluge, the rest of the image became slightly washed out.

To give you a little insight into my setup: I have configured each of the TV's standard picture setting modes (vivid, standard, movie, pro) for each of my devices. So, for analog OTA I use standard, for DVD I use pro, for the Zenith box I use movie, and I am using vivid for the Sony. However, I should be able to use movie since the Zenith and Sony should be outputting the same type of signal. I even tried adjusting the movie setting for the Sony, but I got the same results - washed out blacks.

Also, just so I wouldn't be chasing my tail, I went into the service menu of the TV and copied the picture settings of movie mode to match that of vivid mode - essentially, both of these settings should be identical.

Basically, I believe the Sony is outputting crushed blacks. I just don't know how to change that on the DVR itself.

Michael,

In the past, I have ordered Sony sevice manuals directly from Sony. You could try calling Sony customer service to see if they will sell you a service manual for your DVR.

-phil

I live in Austin TX and have Time Warner cable. All our HD channels are 4-digits. So far, if the TVGOS software recognizes the channel (and fortunately it recognizes almost all) there are no problems.

However one channel, TNTHD (channel 1607) isn't recognized. The guide does list the analog SD channel. I've tried to edit the channel to point to the correct 1607, but the software won't allow it. It only allows 3 digits in the channel number field when remapping. It will allow manual recording of a timeframe using a 4-digit channel number.

As long as the channel number was 3-digits or shorter, (USA, Sci-Fi) it allows the remapping perfectly.

I called Sony support on these issues (TNTHD and TVGOS channel limitation) as well as the fact that my correct zip code doesn't give me the right cable company options. My software version is 1.2.05.

The gentleman I spoke with at Sony was basically ignorant of the product but after about 25 minutes he understood the issues perfectly and said he would find the path to get the issues back to TV Guide.

So, I think it will be a while...

3: No, you cannot record from another source, only the OTA/Cable inputs via the internal tuner

I suppose using an RF modulator would allow the Sony to record from non-OTA/cable sources, though with admittedly poor quality.

I have a DHG-HDD250 on the way... should be here Friday. I'll try to post some comments later in the weekend after comparing its picture quality to that of my Samsung SIR-T165.

My remote is the HTM MX-700. It uses it's own file format, but I can import codes from a .ccf file. Does your Pronto use .ccf's? If so, I'd like to PM you and maybe get a file with the discreet codes.

Or perhaps you could direct me to a site that has these in .ccf format.

PhillyC,

Mine uses .pcf files, and I don't know of a way to export it as a .ccf, unfortunately. But I do have a .ccf file with a whole bunch of codes from the tools I used to build the codes to experiment with. I can give you that and tell you which codes were on/off.

Thanks, GBrock! I sent you a PM.

Sony has historically been good about building discrete codes into their equipment, even though they do not include buttons for them on their remotes. You would think they would publish common files containing the codes so we could all have easy access to them. I'll bet there are discrete codes for plenty of other functions on the DVR.

Heck, even LG published codes for the 3410A DVR before it was available. Well, maybe the Sony is just too new, and codes will appear later.

Observations on the HDD500, in no particular order:

It's interesting that the unit performs a timer recording without actually "turning on". The record light appears in the display and the recording is done internally. This was disconcerting at first, since it's handy to be able to glance at the display and see that the proper channel is recording. You can, however, turn the unit on to get the channel display, and turn it back off without affecting the recording. Very cool.

The menu system (both Sony and TVGOS) seems rather cumbersome. It takes too many key presses to do almost anything and the response seems sloooow. It gets the job done, but takes some getting used to. The Sony menus won't be used that much after the initial setup is refined. The Guide menus will have to be dealt with.

The Favorites function is terrible. I'll just set up macros on my MX-700 remote.

The adjustable FF, REW, Replay, Advance and chapter marks are great.

The Guide is working as it should with no problems for OTA and cable. I have a CableCARD coming on Wednesday. We'll see how that goes.

One has to hope that there won't be any Guide problems, since there is no way to set the clock manually. No Guide = no clock = doorstop.

Overall, the unit seems to work, a welcome "feature" after my experience with the LG 3410A (three of them). Of course, more time is needed to observe the Sony's behavior.

One major concern: The HD picture through HDMI with DVI adapter may be a problem. I've always preferred component connections over DVI with any of the four tuners I've had, but DVI was nevertheless very, very good. Not so here. I'm no expert, but the picture seems washed out. Blacks are not as black. You can get away with this on sports programs that are well lit, but a couple of typical primetime "dark" HDTV programs did not look so good. The LG's DVI output was much better.

I have not tried the Sony's component outputs yet. My setup realy calls for using the DVI on the Sony as opposed to the DVI on my Comcast 6412. But maybe I'll switch after I get the CableCARD and the dust settles. Or perhaps an HDMI>DVI cable without an adapter might help?

This is especially disturbing since the HDD500 is connected to a Sony XBR plasma. This should eliminate any problems between devices form different manufacturers. The picture settings that work great for several other devices using DVI and component inputs just don't look as good with the HDD500. I'm experimenting with different picture settings on the plasma, so we'll see if I can find a solution. I don't think this is a deal-breaker, but I have not yet spent enough time investigating the problem.

I received my HDD250 this weekend. Within 12 hours of first powerup, it had received guide data for the first two days (I live in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area). I was pleasantly surprised not to have guide problems, since my VHF reception is lousy and I figured our main analog PBS station TPT-2 would be transmitting the Gemstar data. The guide initially listed the channels in a seemingly random order, but it was easy to reorganize them using the onscreen interface.

Using the component outputs (I have no HDMI equipment yet), I'd say the picture is nearly as good as that from my Samsung T165. Without adjusting my TV in between, the picture from the HDD250 is very slightly more washed out and cooler than the Samsung's. A slight adjustment of the TV's picture controls should fix this. I will evaluate the picture more critically over the next week once I have things calibrated.

My wife loves the program guide and ease of use.

One feature that seems to be missing is a "Previous Channel" button. The Samsung box had one, and it was handy.

My unit came with a "Coming Soon To DVD" trailer reel preloaded in the recordings area. (Gotta love that Sony/Columbia Pictures synergy...)

Some interesting technical info gleaned from the user manual: the HDD250/HDD500 units run a MontaVista Linux kernel on a 300 MHz MIPS 4KEc processor with 128 MB of DDR SDRAM (183 MHz bus) and 32 MB of flash. The hard drives use an xfs filesystem. The manual also mentions the use of GNU Privacy Guard, binutils, busybox, gcc, libgcc, libc, libstd++, libm, libpng and Freetype2.

Regarding the USB port- I suspect the primary reason it's there is to permit upgrading the firmware by copying files from a USB flash drive. But this week I'll try plugging an external hard drive into the port and see if anything happens.

So far, I am pretty pleased with the HDD250, especially at the price I paid (just under $600).

I am thinking of getting one of these, but I heard the dss companies (dishnet, and directv) plan to go to mpeg4 in a year 1/2. Will OTA broadcast switch the mpeg4 as well in the near future?

I got my HDD250 on Friday and am also in the Mpls/St. Paul area. I'd echo many of the comments here. The tuner on the HDD250 seems to be a tiny bit weaker than what I am have in my Hitachi RPTV , but I probably just need to move the antenna around a bit (just a Zenith Silver Sensor sitting in the basement right now).

I didn't have time over the weekend to do much fiddling around - currently using the HDMI/DVI converter, but I may go with the component outs instead. It'll be interesting to see how an A/B comparison with my original setup looks.

With a receiver that only has two optical audio ins, I wish this unit had a digi coax out, but I guess its time for a new DVD player (with a digi coax out). Or one of the optical to coax converters, but that seems like overkill. Also will be interested to see if the Harmony remote has the HDD250 in its list yet.

I paid about $50 more than you did, but so far am quite happy with the promise of this unit.

I received my HDD250 this weekend. Within 12 hours of first powerup, it had received guide data for the first two days (I live in the Minneapolis/St. Paul area). I was pleasantly surprised not to have guide problems, since my VHF reception is lousy and I figured our main analog PBS station TPT-2 would be transmitting the Gemstar data. The guide initially listed the channels in a seemingly random order, but it was easy to reorganize them using the onscreen interface.

Using the component outputs (I have no HDMI equipment yet), I'd say the picture is nearly as good as that from my Samsung T165. Without adjusting my TV in between, the picture from the HDD250 is very slightly more washed out and cooler than the Samsung's. A slight adjustment of the TV's picture controls should fix this. I will evaluate the picture more critically over the next week once I have things calibrated.

My wife loves the program guide and ease of use.

One feature that seems to be missing is a "Previous Channel" button. The Samsung box had one, and it was handy.

My unit came with a "Coming Soon To DVD" trailer reel preloaded in the recordings area. (Gotta love that Sony/Columbia Pictures synergy...)

Some interesting technical info gleaned from the user manual: the HDD250/HDD500 units run a MontaVista Linux kernel on a 300 MHz MIPS 4KEc processor with 128 MB of DDR SDRAM (183 MHz bus) and 32 MB of flash. The hard drives use an xfs filesystem. The manual also mentions the use of GNU Privacy Guard, binutils, busybox, gcc, libgcc, libc, libstd++, libm, libpng and Freetype2.

Regarding the USB port- I suspect the primary reason it's there is to permit upgrading the firmware by copying files from a USB flash drive. But this week I'll try plugging an external hard drive into the port and see if anything happens.

So far, I am pretty pleased with the HDD250, especially at the price I paid (just under $600).

Hey, gang,

Got my unit (the DHGHDD500) directly from Sony last week, but I waited a few days to plug it in with the birth of my new daughter and all (woo hoo!). Mine seems to have a later firmware that most of you (the DVR, not my baby daughter) - It's 1.2.06 - not sure what (if anything) is different.

For my part, Over-The-Air in NYC with a roof antenna less than 2 miles line of sight from the ESB, auto-channel set-up went well detecting all the analog and digital signals I expected with a bonus or two (who knew there was a new analog "channel 6" in NYC?). One digital channel (5.2 UPN - WWOR) comes in terribly and it was fine on a Samsung SIR-T151. Very choppy, jerky video and audio on the Sony. Signal strength is supposedly 83% to 88% - need to look into this. The other channels seem to be coming in fine. Need to wait until prime time to get some decent HD source material. The clock was set within about an hour of plugging it in, and station logos appear as well. 6 hours off hasn't been enough time to set up the guide but I expect this to be OK within a day or so since I am strictly OTA and it found the clock signal quickly.

I will let you guys know my impressions. Full review on the Web site probably some time in July after I've had a chance to put it through its paces.

Later,

-Chris

price I paid (just under $600).

Where?

Quick update: TV Guide listings are live after about 2.5 days - days 1, 2 and 8. GUI is pretty good but channel order is whack. Highlighted an HD show on tonight and hit the record button - all set to record. Big improvement over manual timer programming.

One thing I find exceedingly odd on this unit is that I can't find a "zoom" aspect mode for SD signals that are letterboxed to expand them to full screen w/o distortion. PBS HD is still not online OTA with any real power and they broadcast quite a bit of letterboxed content in SD. It would be nice to have a quick 16:9 zoom mode on the Sony to expand letterboxed content to fill the screen. Will keep digging...

More later...

-CB

Chris,

Unfortunately, there is no Zoom for HD, only Expand and Squeeze. I can't imagine why Sony did not include this, since all of their TV's have it. I like to zoom in on digital SD to get rid of the black bars on my plasma without distorting the picture. Oh, well. Also annoying is that the two existing modes are temporary and go away when you switch channels.

At least I solved my poor HD picture (via DVI) problem with some adjustments in a previously useless picture mode of my Sony plasma. It seems apparent, though, that blacks are just not as black as they should be.

The Guide has filled in completely and flawlessly over the last week.

Comcast should be here this morning with a CableCARD. We'll see how that works.

It seems that manufacturers of HD tuners and DVR's start their designs from square one. That is, they throw out all they have learned from previous devices (VCR's, TV's, etc.) about usability, convenience features, and the many little details that make for a great user experience. It's like they forgot everything and now we have to suffer through the learning process all over again. Very strange.

The many good points of the HDD500 do outweigh the oddities. This DVR is far better than the LG DVR (if you don't need firewire or RGB). The Sony has so far performed without errors or failures.

This is interesting: When scheduling a recording on the Sony, you can select a recording quality option including HQ plus some VHS-ish terms like EP, LP, SLP. The manual doesn't seem to cover this... I assume this setting (even though it can be changed) is ignored for hard disk recording of DTV broadcasts and only affects hard disk recording of analog broadcasts as well as recording of ANY broadcast to an external VCR. I can't figure out why Sony included the latter feature... who would bother using an analog VHS deck instead of the onboard hard drive recording?

This is interesting: When scheduling a recording on the Sony, you can select a recording quality option including HQ plus some VHS-ish terms like EP, LP, SLP. The manual doesn't seem to cover this... I assume this setting (even though it can be changed) is ignored for hard disk recording of DTV broadcasts and only affects hard disk recording of analog broadcasts as well as recording of ANY broadcast to an external VCR. I can't figure out why Sony included the latter feature... who would bother using an analog VHS deck instead of the onboard hard drive recording?

Page 71 in the manual talks about it. It maybe different since I'm using the PDF version. It basically states that it sets the quality for analog recordings.

Alan

Oh, you're right. Thanks, Alan.

DVR alert of the day- ABC is broadcasting TOY STORY in HD tomorrow evening. :)

Where did you get the HDD250 for such a great price Mark?

Omigosh, what a terrible day with Comcast. After arriving well past the appointed time, the tech showed up with a Comcast DVR under his arm instead of a CableCARD. So he went back to his office and returned with the card.

He gave up after an hour and a half of trying th get the card to download channels. This consisted mainly of looking confused and making lots of phone calls to people who could not help him. I heard a supervisor say that the card should work automatically because they have the serial number in their system. Nothing.

After the tech left, I called several times. One person in the tech department thought she knew how to correct the problem, but didn't explain, just said to wait about 5 minutes. Of course nothing happened. Later calls resulted in tech sending me to sales "because they can authorize more stuff". The sales rep said "Huh?"

Another rep said the CableCARD would not work because I also have a Comcast DVR. What?

I finally wound up with a tech supervisor who actually tried to talk me out of having two DVR's "because I don't need them". He kept insisting I had the Sony connected to the Comcast 6412! Unbelievable. Meanwhile, he was the first guy to actually make a note of the info from the CableCARD Pairing screen in the Sony. He insisted he had to make another appointment for a tech to come out. Like 8 hours of this today wasn't enough.

The upshot is that I get no cable channels with the card inserted. All non-scrambled channels reappear when I remove the card. This must be a Comcast problem, not Sony, I think.

For the HDD250 at $577+$22 FedEx Ground shipping, try Sammans Electronics (http://www.sammans.com). The Sony units are not up yet on their website, but they carry them. They have put a few up on eBay at that price and would probably offer the same deal if you contact them directly. My unit was shipped double-boxed and factory sealed the day after I placed the order.

HELP!! I need a reality check.

Continuing the CableCARD saga ---

My CableCARD receives no channels from Comcast. (If I remove the card, I get all the unscrambled channels.)

Comcast now says that a CableCARD device will not work when connected to the same TV as a Comcast 6412 DVR. I explained that each device functions separately on a different TV input. They said I CAN have the two devices work properly in the same home on different TV's. What? The same incoming cable is split to the 6412 and the HDD500 either way. What's the difference which TV it's connected to?

Anyway, I asked them to prove what they are saying. I unplugged the 6412 and disconnected it from the system. They sent information to the CableCARD. Of course, nothing happened and no channels are present.

So another service call is scheduled for Friday. I've asked them to check the card info/programming in their system, but they refuse, saying that all this is tied to the card serial number (which is correct in their system).

I've talked to CSR's, supervisors and managers in different offices. No results. And I can't seem to get any higher in the chain or even to a different area, like maybe the guy who programs the cards or their systems. All I get is people saying the card should work automatically upon insertion or implying an incompatibility with the Sony.

BTW, the Network Status screen in the Sony has a "Hunt" button. Selecting this results in a short search and a screen that says "Success! Network provider found." So it appears the card is aware of the Comcast network, and Comcast is failing to send the data to me.

Can any of you offer specific advice as to what to say to Comcast or what procedure your installer folllowed to get a problem card working? This is really, REALLY frustrating.

Any input will be appreciated.

Can you record HD and watch analog at the same time and vise versa?

Philly, sure doesn't sound like a problem with the the HDD500. We use comcast and a cablecard and didn't encounter that problem. Is it possible you have a bum card?

Also, you are of course right that you should be able to hook up your 6412 and hdd500 at the same time. In fact the comcast guy who installed my hd suggested that I could do just that.

Philly, sure doesn't sound like a problem with the the HDD500. We use comcast and a cablecard and didn't encounter that problem. Is it possible you have a bum card?

Also, you are of course right that you should be able to hook up your 6412 and hdd500 at the same time. In fact the comcast guy who installed my hd suggested that I could do just that.

Thanks for the reality check. I was getting worried about Comcast brainwashing techniques. Actually, a search revealed that Comcast people are apparently trained to say these things and discourage CableCARD use. Most of the CSR's don't understand this stuff anyway, so they believe the BS they are fed.

An installer is coming again this afternoon. He is supposed to exchange the CableCARD, just in case it's bad. I'm pretty sure though that this will be more wasted time and that Comcast is failing to authorize the card properly. But a new card is worth a shot. The problem is that, even when an individual tries to help, they always say I have to wait 10 minutes or wait an hour for their "fix" to take effect. When it doesn't, you can't ever reach the same person and have to start all over again --- and again and again.

Looking forward to another Comcast service call...

Hey, guys, it might be helpful if you could share a little information from your CableCARD menu screens in the Sony. Comcast still can't get my card to work. Here is some suspicious info I have in various screens:

In the CableCARD Status screen:
--- Download Status:
----- Segments left to download: 0
----- State: Wait to start

In the Conditional Access screen:
--- CA Disabled
--- Compnent PIDs: (all zeroes on two lines)
--- Host Validation: Unknown 00
--- Copy Protection Key: Disabled

The installer thought some of this implied that the card is incorrectly programmed or partially disabled, but he didn't really know. (There were notes all over my account at Comcast for him to bring more CableCARDs, but of course none of this was on his work order. Comcast is full of idiots.)

Anyway, thanks for any help/info. I've got to train the Comcast people!

Can anyone post the keystroke sequence to get into the service menu on these boxes? Earlier posters mentioned they had managed to get in by accident, so it can't be too hard...

Sorry, this is to get into the LG2410A diagnostics......


Can anyone post the keystroke sequence to get into the service menu on these boxes? Earlier posters mentioned they had managed to get in by accident, so it can't be too hard...


Mark,

You need to go into the guide, select the "messages" tab from the top options and select the option that displays your TVGUIDE s/n information.

Enter 753159852 and the guide diagnostic menus pop up. I don't think there's much useful info but you could ask someone (email?) from Gemstart or LG what the screens mean.

Can you record HD and watch analog at the same time and vise versa?
Yes and no. The Sony treats analog and HD signals more or less the same in terms of recording and playback. You can record SD and watch previously recorded HD and vice versa, but if you're recording, you can't watch any other LIVE channels (SD or HD) because it treats both the SD and HD tuners as one and does not let you select any other channel while recording.

Hope that helps.

-CB

Yes it does, thanks.

A poster above said:

One has to hope that there won't be any Guide problems, since there is no way to set the clock manually. No Guide = no clock = doorstop.

And from http://www.crutchfieldadvisor.com/ISEO-rgbtcspd/learningcenter/home/tvgos2.html :

Keep in mind, even if your unit can't get programming information for TV Guide On Screen, it will still be able to control most major brands of cable boxes and will likely have alternative ways to set recordings, such as VCR Plus+®.

So what does that mean for folks out here in remote areas if the TV Guide doesn't work for us, or we don't have a host station feeding the information? Can we program the thing just like a VCR -- on at 8 p.m. recording Channel 23, for example, or are we just out of luck? Crutchfield says we likely will have alternative ways . . . I'm sorry, but for their aggressive $799 price, likely doesn't do it for me.

Doug

giantcycle,

The clock can be set manually on certain DVR's, like the LG 3410A, if the guide does not function. Manual recordings can be set. The Sony, although manual recordings can be set, depends on the clock being set by the TV Guide. So far I have had no problem downloading guide and clock info in Chicago. With no guide, the clock seems to default to some pre-programmed time when you start the unit for the first time. I suppose you could calculate the offset from the real time to set recordings, but what a pain that would be.

Your Crutchfield link is a general guide that does not refer to any specific DVR. It repeatedly mentions problems with cable boxes (especially the Moto 6000 series) and DVR's, but this is from the Sony manual:

"It is not recommended to connect the RF output of a cable set-top box, satellite receiver or other device to your HD DVR."

The only inputs are RF for OTA and cable. I'm not sure why anyone would want to connect a cable box to the Sony, anyway. Simply split your incoming cable, one line to the Sony and one line to your cable box. The idea is to have a SEPARATE tuner so you can multitask. With The Sony, you will get all your unscrambled cable channels and, if you can get CableCARD to work, the same premium channels you get through your cable box. Record one thing, watch another. Excellent!

If you buy the Sony, you should make sure you can return it if you find that the guide is unavailable in your area.

If you manually set a time on the unit it show up as "unknown" as the title description in the recording options and on the front display panel. This also can be a problem if you are going to keep the recordings. I don't know if you can change the "unknown" to what the title should be.

No, there is no way to edit the titles on the Sony HDD.

Anything I record on ABC HD Toy Story, Tarzan, etc. It show up as the title in the recording tab but displays "unknown" on the front panel...

"It is not recommended to connect the RF output of a cable set-top box, satellite receiver or other device to your HD DVR."


What is the reason for this not recommended? I was planning on hooking up a dss box output to thte input of the sony for the ability to pause live tv. Is this possible? If it can interpret the station as analog, it should work. Right?

ay221, that ought to work fine. The warning is probably intended for less A/V-savvy people who might get confused when, connected this way, the DVR can't itself tune in everything the external STB can.

Here's a little tip for Pronto NG owners: to make the DHG-HDD500 feel more responsive, set the minimum IR duration time to 0.17 seconds for each code.

(Note that you'll need the latest Pronto NG / ProntoPro NG firmware and editor for IR duration support.)

Does anyone know if TV Guide On Screen is broadcast on any stations in the Toronto area? I get full Rogers Cable and Toronto/Buffalo stations via antenna. In the Guide setup I selected "Canada", put in my postal code, and indicated that I have both cable and antenna.

18 hours later, I had nothing - not even a clock (I have three VCRs that get clock info fine over cable and one that also gets VCR+ channel mapping). Now since there's NO WAY to manually set the clock on this thing I've been a bit concerned.

I entered the TVGOS diagnostics screen (the instructions provided for the LG earlier work fine) and under "Host Chan" it showed nothing, but under "VBI Host" it said "0:0-17". Now analog channel 17 is PBS received via antenna, so looks like something might be working - but why no clock? Under the VBI reception screen it had a whole bunch of packets listed as "received" (but 0 for Host Channel and Current Channel) but like I said, nothing had yet downloaded.

So, I decided to try another approach: tell the guide I only have antenna and give it a Buffalo zip code. I did that about 2 hours ago and I just looked and the front of the box and it is FINALLY showing a clock. However I have not turned it on to check the guide yet since I don't want to interrupt anything right away that might actually be working.

Now the problem is there's no point in me telling it I have cable when I've entered a Buffalo zip code since the channels are completely different in Toronto (I don't just mean mapping, I mean even the selection of channels). Was I just too hurried in my initial waiting period? Or should I maybe try changing back to Canada and if that doesn't work removing channel 17 analog and see if it can lock into something else offered by the cable lineup?

Later on today I'll check to see if there's any guide info and what the diagnostics page says.

But at least I finally have a clock...

Does anyone here have a Motorola CableCARD working in the Sony DVR? If so, who is your cable company and where are you located?

I ask because Comcast in Chicago cannot get mine going. I have no channels when the card in inserted. The card is shown as present, and that it finds the network, but just won't get authorized. A fourth service call today with a tech and a supervisor yielded no results.

Sony says, given the above description, that the problem lies entirely with Motorola and Comcast.

Any information would be helpful. Thanks!

Can someone point me to an online users manual? I am curious if the box can behave like my dish pvr box, where when watching tv, you decide you want to record it, you can reverse back to the beginnin when you tuned o that channel and record all of that time to the present.

Does anyone here have a Motorola CableCARD working in the Sony DVR? If so, who is your cable company and where are you located?


My CableCARD is a Motorola. My cable company is CableOne. It took a while for them to get right, but its working. There is more info on this earlier in this thread.

Can someone point me to an online users manual? I am curious if the box can behave like my dish pvr box, where when watching tv, you decide you want to record it, you can reverse back to the beginnin when you tuned o that channel and record all of that time to the present.

It does do that :) I tried it last night. I tuned to watch a channel and about halfway through decided I wanetd to record it. If you just push the record button it tags it as a manual recording and it shows up in the listings as "Unknown," but it does record the beginning that already passed. If you want it to have a correct title, then you have to go into the TV Guide and hit record when you have the listing highlighted. The default for recording live TV is 30 minutes in the past, but you can change that setting to longer if you wish.

My CableCARD is a Motorola. My cable company is CableOne. It took a while for them to get right, but its working. There is more info on this earlier in this thread.

Thanks. You had some problems with individual channels, but it appears your card was "authorized" immediately and you were able to receive most channels. Is this correct?

Thanks. You had some problems with individual channels, but it appears your card was "authorized" immediately and you were able to receive most channels. Is this correct?

It appears that they didn't do a full authorization. Yes, I was getting most channels, but not a select group. Once they finally found someone who knew how to authorize the card properly, everything was available.

Thanks for the info Mark and inlogan.

Okay, some further details: after about 24 hours off I've just turned the DVR on, loaded up the guide, and there's my antenna-based channels complete with logos and about 2 days worth of guide content. Interestingly, US HD channels seem to be already mapped as well. If I check out the channel list editor there's a total of 346 off-air and US-cable-based channels in there, about the first 200 with logos so far, but nothing Canadian except for the off-air networks.

Checking the diagnostics screen, the Host Channel is shown as 0:0-17 (off air PBS), but the VBI Host is showing as 0:0-51 - which, if I check it, is an extremely fuzzy PAX. Perhaps I should remove 51 from the DVR's list to prevent any attempt at locking onto such a weak channel?

In the meantime, I've re-enabled Cable in the guide and have again entered my Canadian postal code in an attempt to get Canadian listings. If it doesn't work in a couple days I'll go back to the Buffalo zip code.

From other Sony products sold up here (like the DVD-R/HDD unit) it SEEMS I should be able to get TVGOS...

From other Sony products sold up here (like the DVD-R/HDD unit) it SEEMS I should be able to get TVGOS...

Have you had any conversation with Sony about this? Of course, they will probably try to send you to the TV Guide people, who don't tell you anything. But if Sony sells the DVR in Canada, then it should work in Canada.

I took delivery of my DHG-HDD500 on Thursday. Read all the posts here before I ordered. Thanks for all the good info!

I did the setup Thursday night. Friday morning, time was not set, no guide data. So I changed the zipcode to another one used in the area (thanks to whoever posted that idea). When I got home last night the time was set and there was roughly 2 days of guide data.

Recording functions work as expected. PQ is as expected. The system menu and diagnostic pages had more information than expected.

Unfortunately the guide ordering is worse than expected -- ouch! You guys were very kind in your descriptions. :)

Only had it for a couple days, but we're off to a good start.

Ignoring the guide issue for now (nothing has yet happened with the new postal code), it seems I've got a bigger issue.

Format switching. Whenever I try to start up the DHG-HDD500, connected directly to the DVI/HDCP port on my Sony KF-60XBR800, one of two things happens:

1) The DVR starts up in 480i mode and I have to manually hit the "FORMAT" button about 6 times to get back to 1080i (similar to a previous poster).

2) The DVR supposedly starts up in 1080i mode but I get NO PICTURE, just a black screen - I have to turn the box off, change the TV's input to another, and try again. Tonight it took THREE TRIES before I got any picture. After that, it works fine - I can switch inputs on the TV, turn the box on and off without difficulty... until everything's been powered off for a few hours, and it starts all over again.

I had no difficulty with my previous Samsung SIR-T165, connected directly via DVI - it never ever switched away from 1080i.

This is extremely annoying behavior.

Mine often switches to Auto DVI on start up, but not always. I'm not sure what circumstances trigger this.

Yes, mine says its it's in Auto DVI as well, but if you were on a HDTV station previously it would still be in 480i, so there only seems to be one available Auto format.

I'm seriously considering switching to "no negotiation" component.

1. How good is the tuner included with this unit, compared with HDTV set-top boxes? Anyone have a comparison, or subjective impression?

2. How much noise does this unit make when it's "off" -- is there still a fan running?

3. How much light does this unit emit when it's "off" -- about like a VCR (very little) or more like a night light?

1. HDTV wise I have no complaints yet compared to my SIR-T165. Analog wise it's not nearly as good as the one built-in to my TV (softer resolution and more grain); digital cable wise it seems the same as my SA 8300HD.

2. First, the hard drives do seem to run 24x7, so there's a soft whirring sound there. If there's a fan - and I can't really tell one way or the other - it's no louder than the drives in my setup, and those are very quiet. And, if the Guide software is searching channels, you might hear a relay click between the different inputs. Overall it does make SOME noise all the time, however for me it's not objectionable (not high pitched or whining or erratic). I'm not sure how it would fare in a totally silent bedroom environment, however.

3. When off there's only a small clock on the front display. It's smaller than most VCRs, so shouldn't be as bright.

1. How good is the tuner included with this unit, compared with HDTV set-top boxes? Anyone have a comparison, or subjective impression?

2. How much noise does this unit make when it's "off" -- is there still a fan running?

3. How much light does this unit emit when it's "off" -- about like a VCR (very little) or more like a night light?

I'll mainly echo what Daniel said, but here goes:

1. I have a SIR-T451 sitting (now unused) next to it. No difference in PQ that I can detect.

2. The hard drives (I have the HDD500) run all the time. I have to be within 6 inches of the unit to detect the whirr; since I sit back some 9 feet from it, this isn't an issue under normal conditions.

3. When off, it emits very little light. Nothing at all like a night light. :-)

1. How good is the tuner included with this unit, compared with HDTV set-top boxes? Anyone have a comparison, or subjective impression?

I have a SIR-T451 sitting (now unused) next to it. No difference in PQ that I can detect.

Slightly different question: How good is the Sony at pulling in distant stations? I've had a Zenith HDV420 and now have a SIR-T451, and the Zenith seemed a little better even though it was (I think) older technology.

Slightly different question: How good is the Sony at pulling in distant stations? I've had a Zenith HDV420 and now have a SIR-T451, and the Zenith seemed a little better even though it was (I think) older technology.

That's a good question. When I switched to the Sony box, I also switched antennas, so I'd be comparing apples and oranges. To date, I haven't tried the Samsung unit with the Sony's antenna to compare. I'll check into that and see if I can come up with anything useful to report.

Well, best I can offer is it's better than my previous Samsung SIR-T165 - I was able to lock on to 4 new long-distance digital stations that I was never even able to get a hint of before. Steady reception over a pretty wide sweep of the antenna, too.

The Sony does a very slightly better job of tuning than the Zenith HDV420, which I just disconnected. There seem to be fewer dropouts. Because Zenith held the OTA (broadcast or tuner?) patents, the HDV420 was advanced compared to its contemporaries.

OTA quality is the reason I went with the HDD250, compared to the Dish 942, which has a uniformly poorly reviewed tuner. So far I am very happy with it.

***USEFUL TIP**** : Many complaints about TVGuide channel reordering. Try this: In TVGuide, go to setup, then change channel display. With any channel highlighted, press the left arrow. A channel ordering number with up and down arrows will appear at the left end of the channel line. Move the channel to where you want it, using up and down arrows! Found this quite by accident. It is not in the manual.

Something that should be commented on: the trick play operation of this DVR is extremely nice, at least compared to my 8300HD. It's quick, responsive, has numerous fast forward (including 90X), rewind and slow speeds, has a nifty auto-backtrack feature and works at a high framerate.

The 8300HD has this annoying 1+ second lag whenever you start or stop anything and looks something like a slideshow at high speeds.

OTA HD is much better than my Sammy T165 or my Sammy T150.

That trick on channel ordering is pretty dang cool!

Anyone find some remote key which adds "last channel" changing? I'd love to switch back and forth between 311 and 294 without punching in the numbers or hitting the up and down channel buttons repeatedly?

Has any one got the HDD500 in New York City??

The lack of a 'jump' button is annoying.

Earlier in this thread, the standard approach was noted:
menu : recent channels : down arrow : select

probably quicker to just key in the old channel number and wait a second :rolleyes:

The lack of a 'jump' button is annoying.

Earlier in this thread, the standard approach was noted:
menu : recent channels : down arrow : select

probably quicker to just key in the old channel number and wait a second :rolleyes:

I have codes for "Previous Channel" and discrete On and Off for the HDD500. They are contained in a .ccf file sent to me by another member. I hesitate to post the file because it contains errors when I load it into the HTM MX Editor .ccf browser (for my MX-700 remote). There are more than a hundred codes with no labels other than numbers. This is dangerous. One, for example, performs some sort of disk format, although I did not lose any previously recorded programs.

The Previous Channel code does some odd things when you first start the DVR and have not yet changed channels. Once you have changed the channel at least once, it acts as expected.

I have no way to manipulate or create .ccf's. Is there someone here who can extract the three useful codes (I know which ones they are), label them, and post the file for others to use?

If you can simply post the button numbers along with what they do, that would be enough for me to create and post the needed Pronto hex. Or, since discrete power has already been posted in this thread, just the number for Previous Channel.

Incidentally, if you kept notes on what other buttons did something (even bad somethings), that would also be useful.

If you can simply post the button numbers along with what they do, that would be enough for me to create and post the needed Pronto hex. Or, since discrete power has already been posted in this thread, just the number for Previous Channel.

Incidentally, if you kept notes on what other buttons did something (even bad somethings), that would also be useful.

108 = Previous Channel
46 = On
47 = Off

I went through the other buttons, but found nothing useful and did not keep notes. They were mostly codes that you can learn directly from the Sony remote. Again, beware of the Format code. I think it was in the twenties, but I'm not sure.

It might be useful to have these three codes for BOTH code sets (50 and 51) of the dvr, as set in the menus. The codes I have are for the default set.

Thanks, Phil! I programmed these button codes into my cheapo One For All remote and confirmed they work OK. It's great to have the single key previous channel function again!

We should all thank GBrock, who did the work creating these codes.

I know there are some threads out there about TVGOS so I'll post there as well, but I thought I'd also post here:

A couple of weeks ago, the two HD channels from HBO and Showtime disappeared from my listings. I went to setup and added them back, and their schedule began to fill in over the next couple of days.

Unfortunately, it appears to be the wrong lineup. Rather than mirroring the schedule on Comcast SF channel 551 (HBO West), which broadcasts the same programming in SD, the schedule mirrors the programming for channel 550 (HBO East). So aside from manual record, it's basically impossible to tape these HD channels. Which sort of defeats the purpose.

I've ejected the cablecard and let it repopulate the schedule from scratch. Same problem. I've tried changing area codes, same result. I'm definitely choosing the right lineup (Comcast Digital).

Has anyone encountered this problem? Is it a Comcast issue? A TVGOS issue? Hard to see how it could be a Sony issue.

All thoughts appreciated, thanks.

Just to clarify:

- For OTA the TV Guide is downloaded only over the analog stations, not any of the digital ones? So, if someone deletes all of the analog stations from the channel lineup, they will no longer get the guide? Maybe I'm confused...

Just to clarify:

- For OTA the TV Guide is downloaded only over the analog stations, not any of the digital ones? So, if someone deletes all of the analog stations from the channel lineup, they will no longer get the guide? Maybe I'm confused...

That appears to be the case for me, though I have not completely verified yet. When I turned 'off' the local analog PBS in TVGuide, the guide stopped updating. I have had the unit running less than a week, and do not have a fully-populated guide. It seems to be adding a 2 days each night (days 2 and 8, counting today as 1), now that I switched the analog PBS back on. That is the only major network analog channel I have 'on' in the guide.

Somewhat related, the front panel display and on-screen display use the TVGuide call letters. I found this out when I had to assign another nearby PBS channel for the digital local PBS. The guide did not include a DT version of the channel. Because it is nearby and owned by the same university, the program guide data matches.

Does anybody know how to add a -DT version of a channel to the guide, with the proper call letters and guide data?

I've noticed that:

1) The Host channel must be in the DVR's main Channel List in order for Guide to find it the first time.

2) It seems that it must remain in the Guide lineup - mapped properly - for updates to continue working. I remapped analog PBS to the Digital SD version and the Guide *seemed* to stop updating (this essentially turned "off" the analog station). Put it back, and it seemed to update again, despite the fact that the diagnostics screen still said it knew what channel to tune. But I would have to remap it again to confirm this.

The Guide information does include some -DT stations for some regions. Where I am it included PBS-DT, NBC-DT and CBS-DT (missing Fox, ABC and a few others). You cannot add to the guide what isn't there automatically.

What I did is take the REGULAR versions of Fox, ABC and so forth and remap them to the HDTV channel, so when you make a guide selection it tunes the HDTV channel. This seems to work perfectly.

I wanted to note that the format switching problems I described earlier have been completely fixed - thanks to troubleshooting by Sony it was determined to likely be a bad cable or DVI adaptor, and after receiving replacements today it indeed was a bad HDMI cable. One that worked enough to give me a perfect image, but not enough to allow the DVR to read the TV's EDID (information on what resolutions it supports) or estabilish HDCP authentication.

Thanks Daniel for your post. I adopted your idea of setting the SD listings to tune to the HD channels. Now the HD channels are listed as "Showtime West" and "HBO West" but at least the programming is correct.

...
What I did is take the REGULAR versions of Fox, ABC and so forth and remap them to the HDTV channel, so when you make a guide selection it tunes the HDTV channel. This seems to work perfectly.
Yes, I did the same thing with the same results. I had to keep the one analog PBS station in order to get the daily guide updates. Not sure if that is literally true, but it's working, so I won't mess with it more.

Earlier in this thread, there was a tollfree number for Gemstar. I will try that and see if they will add PBS DT 1 & 2, which are on air. Scrolling through the hundreds of 'off' channels in the list, there are some randomly placed later DT2, 3 and 4 listings for local channels (several hundred places down the list). They must list them in the order they were added to the guide or brought on-line.

Daniel,
Could you please provide the key strokes for:

-Getting into the TVGOS diagnostics screen

-Remapping of channels; analog to digital

Thanks!

I remapped analog PBS to the Digital SD version and the Guide *seemed* to stop updating (this essentially turned "off" the analog station).

What happens if the cable company transmits the PBS channels in digital form only?

What happens if the cable company transmits the PBS channels in digital form only?
Don't know. I read elsewhere in this thread that the signals are on multiple non-PBS stations in some markets. Seems to be agreement that the guide data is on analog. I am connected OTA only.

OK, I figured out how to remap the channels. Should have read the manual more closely. Page 69, under Setup, you can change the channel number that it tunes to.

Guide data is transmitted via analog only, according to info in these forums. Primary stations seem to be PBS, ABC, and FOX, but there may be others and it may vary from area to area. It does seem that these analog stations must be turned on in the guide to allow download ing of data.

Supposedly, the guide people are working on future digital transmission of data, since eventually analog will be shut down. But don't look for this any time soon.

Alerion: Ah, so you noticed the same thing - unmap the Host station in Guide's own screens and it seems to stop updating. Can't see any technical reason why this should be so...

Diagnostics screen: go to the main Guide Setup menu (the one with three options). Move the cursor highlight over the first option, "Change System Settings" but do NOT hit Select. Type in the number "753159852". You'll now be in the diagnostics menu... use up/down to select category, and left/right to see other screens. When you first enter the menu, if you hit RIGHT you can see what Host Channel it's using (ignore the VBI Channel, that seems to just be the last channel you were on before entering). Most of the screens won't be particularly useful, but there's one where you can see your Guide packet decoding statistics and, if you tuned the Host channel before entering diagnostics, you can see live decoding statistics.

Cable digital broadcasts: I think if the information is still there the DVR will be able to pick it up. However it seems that the cable companies can strip or mangle this information. For instance on my ANALOG cable broadcast of PBS, it gets absolutely nothing. However I should note that it's painfully obvious that all the analog stations around here on cable are converted to analog from their digital cable versions - going from analog to digital then back to analog again (it's funny seeing digital breakups on local analog stations).

Has any one got the HDD500 in New York City??
Yup. I'm in Astoria, using the HDD500 for OTA reception (about 1 mile from the Empire State Building with a roof antenna). In my opinion, so far, the OTA tuner is not as good as my old Samsung SIR-T151. That box used to get channel 5.2 fine, the Sony has break-ups with the exact same antenna input. And the analog tuner is really bad on UHF analog channels, not that there's much reason to watch a lot of analog UHF TV, but the spanish channel 68, for example, looks terrible on this thing. VHF analog channels look fine though.

Also, I have seen 3 or 4 instances already of recordings freezing or hanging, usually recoverable (FF/REW), but not pretty. The guide info has been terribly inconsistent. I had it for a couple of days, then lost it. When I added the new PBS HD channels (YAY for PBS!), I lost the guide again. I went back into set-up, selected a different zip code, then got another 2 days of guide but nothing since. I do turn the unit off every night, but the guide well, just plain sucks. Channel order is ridiculous and with a rooftop antenna one mile from the PBS channel, I should be able to get consistent guide info.

The freezing live HDTV is nice, and the recording quality, when it does not freeze up, is excellent. But I'm generally negative on this thing so far. I'm going to try a direct line from the antenna (it's currently on a 3 way splitter) and see if this helps.

What question did you have about using this in NYC?

-Chris

Diagnostics screen: go to the main Guide Setup menu (the one with three options). Move the cursor highlight over the first option, "Change System Settings" but do NOT hit Select. Type in the number "753159852". You'll now be in the diagnostics menu... use up/down to select category, and left/right to see other screens. When you first enter the menu, if you hit RIGHT you can see what Host Channel it's using (ignore the VBI Channel, that seems to just be the last channel you were on before entering). Most of the screens won't be particularly useful, but there's one where you can see your Guide packet decoding statistics and, if you tuned the Host channel before entering diagnostics, you can see live decoding statistics.
totally cool! It absolutely works! In Grand Rapids, MI the Host Channel is WGVU 35 (analog PBS).

Thank you.
Brian

I have my HD500 hooked up both to OTA and Time Warner Cable and I do get guide data for all my major networks on both OTA and TWC in both SD and HD.

I just added HBO, 6 stations in SD and two in HD. I also get Discover HD, TNT HD, INHD(2 channels) and HDNET but get no guide data for any of these channels???


How do I add the guide data for these stations to the HDD500?

I have my HD500 hooked up both to OTA and Time Warner Cable and I do get guide data for all my major networks on both OTA and TWC in both SD and HD.

I just added HBO, 6 stations in SD and two in HD. I also get Discover HD, TNT HD, INHD(2 channels) and HDNET but get no guide data for any of these channels???


How do I add the guide data for these stations to the HDD500?
Try this. It worked when I added an OTA channel and initially got no data.

In TVGuide, go to setup, then change channel display. Scroll through the channel list until you find the new channels. Make sure they are on in the right column. With the channel highlighted press menu on the remote and turn channel on in the dialog box on the left. Also place them in the lineup list where you wish.

Leave the HDD500 off overnight (in my case have to wait until after mid-morning the next day). Go to TVGuide and check those channels for day 8 (today is day 1). If there's a listing, then it's working and the guide will gradually populate over a number of days.

If not, try changing the zipcode to one nearby with the same cable service. To do this from TVGuide, go to setup, then Change System Settings and go through and change the zip code. Then wait overnight again and check as before.

I did both of these steps and it worked. It does chew up a couple of days. :rolleyes:

If anybody has a quicker method, I'm glad to hear it.

Good luck! And let us know what happens, as I may be adding the same.

Diagnostics screen: go to the main Guide Setup menu (the one with three options). Move the cursor highlight over the first option, "Change System Settings" but do NOT hit Select. Type in the number "753159852".

An easy way to commit this number to memory is to think of it as three tic-tac-toe sequences on the keypad.

Can someone point me to an online users manual? I am curious if the box can behave like my dish pvr box, where when watching tv, you decide you want to record it, you can reverse back to the beginnin when you tuned o that channel and record all of that time to the present.
The user manual for the Sony DHGHDD500 can be downloaded at:

You may download a copy of the user's manual from the SonyStyle web site.

As a couple others have noted, I too am seeing what looks like a washed out picture. Comparing to a Panasonic TUDST52 HD tuner with 1080i component out, it just doesn't look as bright. Seems a bit more faded. I'm using a 34XBR800 and have connected via DVI, but don't think component makes any difference. Switching between 1080i/720p also doesn't seem to affect it. I like the unit, but this is rather disappointing.

As a couple others have noted, I too am seeing what looks like a washed out picture. Comparing to a Panasonic TUDST52 HD tuner with 1080i component out, it just doesn't look as bright. Seems a bit more faded. I'm using a 34XBR800 and have connected via DVI, but don't think component makes any difference. Switching between 1080i/720p also doesn't seem to affect it. I like the unit, but this is rather disappointing.
Mine is connected to a 34XBR910. Initally the picture via DVI was not as rich as the previous Zenith HDV420 tuner via component. However, very minor tweaking of the picture settings took care of it. Contrast, brightness and color are still set near the middle of each of their calibration scales (no numeric scale on Sony, don't know the count of 'bars'). Picture is very rich with great brightness range and color.

Alerion,
Are you doing a side by side comparison with your Zenith tuner? If I change to 'Vivid' and tweak the XBR settings, it seems like I can improve it, but if I toggle back and forth between the HDD250 and Panny tuner, the Panny always seems brighter and more vivid. Compared both last night against Leno and some PBS HD programs. My wife thought it was pretty obvious that the HDD250 was faded looking in comparison.

Alerion,
Are you doing a side by side comparison with your Zenith tuner? If I change to 'Vivid' and tweak the XBR settings, it seems like I can improve it, but if I toggle back and forth between the HDD250 and Panny tuner, the Panny always seems brighter and more vivid. Compared both last night against Leno and some PBS HD programs. My wife thought it was pretty obvious that the HDD250 was faded looking in comparison.
Hmmm...no, not side by side, as I didn't have room in the equipment shelf.
I use the 'pro' picture setting on the TV and tweak it, with the color temperature 'warm' and velocity modulation 'off'. I prefer the image far softer than the 'vivid' from the factory.
Picture setting is really personal and subjective, which adds to the mix. I did definitely feel the HDD250 was subdued when I first got it, especially color saturation and contrast. However, to achieve a level I liked, the 'color' setting is still at only about 45%.
Like I said, personal :)
Good luck!

Note from later that evening: hooked the Zenith back up, did A/B comparison of Zenith with high quality component cable vs. Sony with supplied HDMI cable and DVI converter. Confirmed my previous impression: slight difference, which can be adjusted out with picture controls.

I just find that the contrast is a little lighter. After tweaking it a bit in my TV's service menu for that input, it looks as good as any other HD source I have.

Err, after correct calibration, the Sony looks identical to other equally calibrated HD sources on my HDTV.

Alerion, Daniel, and Merc,
Thanks for the checks and feedback. I'm wondering if what I am seeing is a difference between component input and the DVI input on my XBR? I should compare component in of one tuner with component in of the Sony.

It's very likely... I know my set came with HD sources quite mis-calibrated compared to all other inputs. However I should note that on my particular Sony TV, the service menu calibration is more or less by resolution, rather than input. So I can have individual picture settings for Tuner, Composite/Svideo, 480i, 480p, 720p and 1080i.

The problem is, if I have two 1080i sources, one by component and one by DVI, the same picture settings apply. Which didn't work out too well with the Sony DVR, since its picture looks quite a bit different than my SA 8300HD... so I had to turn one to 720p.

By the ways, if you guys have found any reproducable bugs on the HDD500 (not related to TV Guide), please let me know.

Back to host channel topic:

- If the set comes up with a host channel, can you change it? What if you delete that channel and put in another analog channel that supposedly carries the guide. Will it know to switch to it? I tried this last night, but either it didn't work, or I only have one host channel in my area. Resetting the box, didn't change it either.

- Is there a way to find out what stations carry the guide in your area?

- If I remap the host channel to another channel, will it get the guide data? For example, here in San Diego the guide shows PBS of analog 15 (host channel) and the HD PBS of 15.1, but for some reason doesn't show the digital SD duplicate of the analog of 15.2. So, I can change 15 analog to 15.2, but I lose the host channel. Can I remap let's say another channel that I don't care about to analog 15? Something to try...

1) No. But you could delete the channel from the DVR's channel list, then change your zip and it should force it to search again.

2) Not that I know of. Gemstar would know, but they don't provide any way for you to check or even contact them.

3) Currently TVGOS information is NOT carried on digital transmissions, and that includes SD subchannels. The guide doesn't associate your Host channel with a network, but it seems that if you REMOVE the detected host channel from the Guide interface (either by turning the channel off or by remapping it to something else), guide information will no longer update. I changed my PBS SD channel to the digital rebroadcast and for two days I had no new guide information. As soon as I changed it back to the original analog it started updating again. Now there should be no technical reason why this is so - the channel was still available in the DVR's channel list and the diagnostics screen still showed it knew to tune the correct channel - but nonetheless it still didn't work so I'm not going to mess about further.

Probably the best way to think about this is to consider the DVR tuner channel list and the guide list as two completely separate entities.

You can manually tune to any channel acquired during a scan or any channel that gets a signal. The guide, OTOH, is downloaded according to whatever Zip Code you give it and has nothing to do with the real channels. (Of course, it is assumed that a rational person will want the guide that matches his area. :) ) The guide apparently DOES control whether it can update itself --- as shown by the fact that the proper download channel must be "on" in the guide.

Most of us know all this. But I think we still confuse some issues by thinking that the tuner channel list and the guide list are connected in some way. They are not.

Having been through this since the early days of the LG DVR, it irks me that the hardware manufacturers and Gemstar don't make this and a lot of other stuff clear --- like which channels in each area carry the guide and when it gets downloaded. They tell you that you can turn off channels in the guide, but don't warn you that this can disable the guide. Why the mystery? Why the inability to contact Gemstar? What do they gain? Perhaps they think they are protecting us from the confusion of too many details. Maybe the workings of the guide are so crude that they don't want to be put on the spot constantly.

But I think we still confuse some issues by thinking that the tuner channel list and the guide list are connected in some way. They are not.

What probably helps the confusion is that they actually ARE slightly connected - the Channel List picks up logos and names from the TVGOS list. The Channel List also seems capable of picking up names from PSIPs and XDS.

Gemstar's TVGOS website should really have a section where you can punch in your zip or postal code and get a complete list of stations in the area that carry those listings. The guide should also have a place where you can force a specific host channel (I have a VCR that allows this for VCR+ Gold channel mapping).

I agree with internet guide data. Our Replaytv's are perfect and even get show time changes. It would be great if there was an internet link that updated each day. Time on our Replay's is perfect as well.

I guess Sony may have a lot of open box specials. :D


Yea, That would probably be me as I got one of these today for about half the price as an opened returned box. Heres hoping it works out ok! :)

On a side note, What are the chances of me pluging this into my basic cable and getting the free HD channels through comcast? I have someone at work that did this through basic cable with brighthouse and sure enough he gets the local HD channels for free. Does anyone know if this is true or not, At the moment I am using an OTA samsung T150 and it sure would be nice to not have to mess with an antenna anymore.

On a side note, What are the chances of me pluging this into my basic cable and getting the free HD channels through comcast? I have someone at work that did this through basic cable with brighthouse and sure enough he gets the local HD channels for free. Does anyone know if this is true or not, At the moment I am using an OTA samsung T150 and it sure would be nice to not have to mess with an antenna anymore.

Yes, Comcast broadcasts the local HD channels in the clear so you should have no problem picking them up.

Yes, Comcast broadcasts the local HD channels in the clear so you should have no problem picking them up.

This is good news and another reason I will be glad I picked this up at such a great price this early on in it being released.

Can someone point me to an online users manual? I am curious if the box can behave like my dish pvr box, where when watching tv, you decide you want to record it, you can reverse back to the beginnin when you tuned o that channel and record all of that time to the present.Here (http://www.sonystyle.com/intershoproot/eCS/Store/en/documents/specifications/DHGHDD250_manual.pdf)

Yes, you can. But to get the full program (within your allocated buffer size) you will need to set the recording from the "listings" screen in the TVGOS display.

Nascar -

Where did you pick up the open box? (and where do you live?)

I had a quick question about this product. It has two F-type connectors on the back, one labled antenna and the other cable... Can you use both at the same time? Do you esentially have two tuners, one for OTA and the other for cable, or is it an "either-or" type system?

-WJ

Nascar -

Where did you pick up the open box? (and where do you live?)

I dont have it yet but it has shipped. I was looking at this just yesterday as I didnt know HD DVR's were allready out. A guy at work told me about them at onecall where they had the HD250 for an ok price but nothing special as an open box so I did a search and came accross vanns on the web and while browsing the list priced one they had 1 open box underneath it for almost half the list price so I bought it on the spot. Must have been the only one they had because after I bought it it was gone and didnt show up on the page again. According to FedEx its suppose to be delivered on wednesday so we will see.

I had a quick question about this product. It has two F-type connectors on the back, one labled antenna and the other cable... Can you use both at the same time? Do you esentially have two tuners, one for OTA and the other for cable, or is it an "either-or" type system?

-WJ

The inputs supply OTA and Cable channel information which is combined and displayed on the TV Guide screen, but you can only select one channel at a time to view live.

joe

...Although there is only one tuner, the two inputs can be used "at the same time" to the extent that you can enter NTSC OTA, NTSC Cable and ATSC OTA channels at any time. And if you just channel up through the channel list, it switches appropriately.

Unlike, for example, my previous Samsung SIR-T165 that has dual inputs for OTA and cable, but only one can be used at any given time, forcing you to switch between them manually in the menus and rescanning.

Hey Everyone!

Anyone know how to manually add a channel to Sony Box? There's a HD channel I receive that doesn't get picked up when I scan for it, but it does tune in when I manually tune.

BTW, I do like this DVR and my wife actually started using it too.

sjyang

By the ways, if you guys have found any reproducable bugs on the HDD500 (not related to TV Guide), please let me know.
Since the operating system is so tied into TVGuide, it's hard to imagine anything not related. :)
Actually, NO BUGS FOUND!
A few minor issues:
If the default setting for recordings is to start one minute early and two recordings in a row are scheduled, the second one wipes out the first entirely, rather than just the last minute. This can be fixed by changing the defaults or manually adjusting one of the timers.
When watching a show and browsing TVGuide, every move of the highlight to a different channel changes the show in the preview window to the highlighted channel. When exiting TVGuide without selecting a program different than the one when entering, the tuner jumps around a bit full screen before settling back on the original program.
Hmmm...both involve TVGuide :rolleyes:

When watching a show and browsing TVGuide, every move of the highlight to a different channel changes the show in the preview window to the highlighted channel.

In Listings, move left to a channel logo. Follow the instructions to LOCK the video window.

Hey Everyone!

Anyone know how to manually add a channel to Sony Box? There's a HD channel I receive that doesn't get picked up when I scan for it, but it does tune in when I manually tune.

BTW, I do like this DVR and my wife actually started using it too.

sjyang


For digital channels you can't manually add. For antenna-based channels you can, however, run an "add" scan that looks for anything new and will add them to the list. Since I assume you've done this, are you sure that the HD channel you're looking for hasn't actually been added under its PSIP virtual channel number? I ask because HD channels won't tune in PERIOD unless they've been scanned first.

In Listings, move left to a channel logo. Follow the instructions to LOCK the video window.
Thanks! Got to keep rereading that manual.

Though, even after locking TVGuide, Favorites and Recent Channel, the lock setting does not apply in TVGuide:Setup:Change Channel Display. It does the same full-screen jump from last highlighted channel back to original on exiting. Not an issue that comes up day to day.

Okay... I've had my HD500 for awhile now and absolutely love it... but, I have a question with regard to the guide.

Specifically, I have been able to find the logo and turn on the channels, and guides, for all of my HD channels with the exception of two of them. INHD2 and HDNET2. The guide had logos for INHD and for HDNET, but only one logo for each. I tried taking one of the spanish channels and changing it to the HDNET2 channel, but the guide for the spanish channel is what shows up, in spite that by clicking on it, it tunes to the HDNET2 channel.

Is there any way to manually add the HDNET2 and INHD2 Guides, if they don't show up in the Guide listings at all?

Is there any way to manually add the HDNET2 and INHD2 Guides, if they don't show up in the Guide listings at all?

If they're not available in the big list of available channels somewhere, no. Only Gemstar can add it, and it would be to the feed at their level.

For digital channels you can't manually add. For antenna-based channels you can, however, run an "add" scan that looks for anything new and will add them to the list. Since I assume you've done this, are you sure that the HD channel you're looking for hasn't actually been added under its PSIP virtual channel number? I ask because HD channels won't tune in PERIOD unless they've been scanned first.

Here's what's I did so far. I did the "scan" on cable and got a number of stations. I later found out that there were a few stations in my area that I didn't pick up through the scan. However, upon manually entering the PSIP for one of them, it in fact tuned in. I was able to set the TVGuide to manually tune the channel. However, it just doesn't appear in the master channel line up.

I'm not certain why the scan's not picking it up, as it's a channel that broadcasts 24 hours a day.

Thanks for the help.

sjyang

What I'm saying is, are you sure you're not entering the REAL channel number (such as 44-1) when it's been entered into the channel list under the VIRTUAL channel number (say 8-1)?

sjyang-

I had a similiar problem with the 3410a. The channel lock time was longer than the allowed channel scan time and the unit just skipped over those channels. Attenuating the signal reduced the lock time substantially and the 3410a was able now to pick them up on the scan.

Hope this might help.

Lew

:confused: Yup. I'm in Astoria, using the HDD500 for OTA reception (about 1 mile from the Empire State Building with a roof antenna). In my opinion, so far, the OTA tuner is not as good as my old Samsung SIR-T151. That box used to get channel 5.2 fine, the Sony has break-ups with the exact same antenna input. And the analog tuner is really bad on UHF analog channels, not that there's much reason to watch a lot of analog UHF TV, but the spanish channel 68, for example, looks terrible on this thing. VHF analog channels look fine though.

Also, I have seen 3 or 4 instances already of recordings freezing or hanging, usually recoverable (FF/REW), but not pretty. The guide info has been terribly inconsistent. I had it for a couple of days, then lost it. When I added the new PBS HD channels (YAY for PBS!), I lost the guide again. I went back into set-up, selected a different zip code, then got another 2 days of guide but nothing since. I do turn the unit off every night, but the guide well, just plain sucks. Channel order is ridiculous and with a rooftop antenna one mile from the PBS channel, I should be able to get consistent guide info.

The freezing live HDTV is nice, and the recording quality, when it does not freeze up, is excellent. But I'm generally negative on this thing so far. I'm going to try a direct line from the antenna (it's currently on a 3 way splitter) and see if this helps.

What question did you have about using this in NYC? It has to do with the TVGOS. When I first setup i got the guide,but now i lost it and i can not get it back. I see it happen to you. I have the HDD250 for a about a week now.Every thing works just fine. the problem is the guide. I live on the upper west side about 1 mile from the ESB. My antenna is in my apt. Its a terk TV 55.IT works :) Ill try a different zip code and see what happens I hope this will work
THANK YOU
ANGEL


-Chris

I just ordered the DHG-HDD500 from Crutchfield. I have a couple of questions. Given the amount of storms we have in Indiana like last night, what re-setting is needed on this unit after a power outage? Also, how is the PQ using component? Thanks for the help.

Jim

I doubt anything would need resetting. It's not even possible to set the clock manually! :-) Sorry, haven't tried component.


Off topic, I just realized that it *should* have been really easy to find the "Previous Channel" code for this DVR. This unit responds to the exact same codeset as Sony TiVos, and the "Previous Channel" button on all of my Sony universal remotes works just fine right out of the box.

Sigh...

I just ordered the DHG-HDD500 from Crutchfield. I have a couple of questions. Given the amount of storms we have in Indiana like last night, what re-setting is needed on this unit after a power outage?...
JimYou should really invest in a UPS for your gear...especially when thunderstorms, lightning and related power spikes and outages occur like they do here in the midwest.

Since this is a thread that's getting a lot of posts, and the Sony unit seems fairly popular, can we make this thread a sticky?

My Sony reverts to Auto HDMI after being off overnight, no matter what format I have chosen previously. If I turn it off for just a few minutes, my last format setting is retained.

I called Sony. The CSR checked with his "product specialist" and said that after some set amount of time (he didn't know exactly how long) the unit is off, the DVR is indeed supposed to revert to Auto HDMI. In other words, this is a "feature". Is this true for everyone here, or is it BS?

Another question: What happens when you set an HD broadcast to SD Out format? Can you change the screen mode to letterbox or sidecrop or squeezed? I thought I could take an upconverted HD program (720p with black side bars), change to SD Out, and use side crop to zoom in on the picture. But no! I can scroll through the three screen mode options, but they have no effect.

I turned off one analog channel in my channel list. It is definitely not the channel broadcasting TVGOS data. I left for the weekend, so the receiver was never on. When I returned, it had stopped updating Day 8's, so the final three days out have no listings on any channel.
Have others had this experience? I tried changing zip codes, so will check tonight to see if Day 8 came back (nope, it didn't). Makes it tough to edit the Guide. Even toughter to schedule future recordings.
:mad:

Switching back to Auto HDMI happens to me as well. However it was even worse as my unit ALSO kept getting stuck in 480i mode (fixed now with a new cable). Intentional or not, this is still undesirable behavior in my book and I call that kind of stuff a bug. :-)

:confused:

What happend here :confused:

Switching back to Auto HDMI happens to me as well. However it was even worse as my unit ALSO kept getting stuck in 480i mode (fixed now with a new cable). Intentional or not, this is still undesirable behavior in my book and I call that kind of stuff a bug. :-)

Yeah, the CSR also said that when the DVR starts (after the mystery length of off time), it examines the connections and determines which is best for us. I guess we're not being very smart when we disagree with Sony's choice! But our decision to change format is agreed to for awhile, just not after several hours or overnight.

Makes me want to get up off some cash, buy a Zektor 4 input component switcher, and connect all my equipment via component.

Separately, there is no news from Comcast yet on how or when they will get my Motorola CableCARD working.

Mine is updated until 3:00am Thursday morning...I am going to check out the guide later this evening...I won't be able to get the Cablecard until mid-June(expensive month!!!).

Mine is updated till friday 3:00am :cool:

I had this problem but a more severe version earlier - a bad HDMI cable was preventing the DVR from reading my TV's capabilities, so after this "indeterminate" amount of time it would reset to "Auto HDMI" but only offer 480i until I manually changed format modes. Now at least when it resets I still get a full range of formats.

Well I received my open box HDD500 yesterday and so far I couldnt be happier for what I paid for this so early on in release, I dont even think it had ever been plugged in as the power cord was not even unwrapped and all the orginal tape was on the unit as well. As far as Im concerned this unit was new. And for almost half of msrp. I also like being able to get TNT in HD and many more digital channels over my basic cable feed. The TVguide does appear to be working as well at this point as it has began to download the info, My one biggest complaint is that it has no RF out. I couldnt believe it. I had to split the cable with a splitter to get it back to my TV so I could use the TV's tuner if I would like while recording. Really kind of a stupid mistake in not providing it but the splitter is an easy workaround. But all in all so far so good, Have not recorded with it yet.

nascar - I assume you got a cable card, then, since you're getting TNT HD? How much do the cable companies charge you for those? It's not supposed to be much from what I see.

I agree; it's dumb not to have the RF out. I'm looking at getting one of these. The lack of RF out wouldn't affect me unless I do get a cable card and route my cable connection in to the unit (I'm looking at it for just OTA HD right now). I just have Mediacom basic (no digital package). Would the cable card then enable me to get HD even if I only have basic cable with no digital? (I assumed when you said you have basic cable that you don't have digital cable?)

nascar - I assume you got a cable card, then, since you're getting TNT HD? How much do the cable companies charge you for those? It's not supposed to be much from what I see.

I agree; it's dumb not to have the RF out. I'm looking at getting one of these. The lack of RF out wouldn't affect me unless I do get a cable card and route my cable connection in to the unit (I'm looking at it for just OTA HD right now). I just have Mediacom basic (no digital package). Would the cable card then enable me to get HD even if I only have basic cable with no digital? (I assumed when you said you have basic cable that you don't have digital cable?)

Basically the cable card allows you to get the encrypted digital channels. You can hook up the HDD500 and using the internal QAM demodulator, get all the un-encrypted digital channels. Time Warner in Austin doesn't encrypt the OTA HD channels so I can receive them with just the internal tuner. I don't have the HDD500 yet but that is how it works with my tv. My cable card costs $1.75 a month for rent.

Alan

nascar - I assume you got a cable card, then, since you're getting TNT HD? How much do the cable companies charge you for those? It's not supposed to be much from what I see.

I agree; it's dumb not to have the RF out. I'm looking at getting one of these. The lack of RF out wouldn't affect me unless I do get a cable card and route my cable connection in to the unit (I'm looking at it for just OTA HD right now). I just have Mediacom basic (no digital package). Would the cable card then enable me to get HD even if I only have basic cable with no digital? (I assumed when you said you have basic cable that you don't have digital cable?)


No, Thats why I was so suprised when I was flipping through the channels and I found that I had TNT HD. Wasnt expecting that channel to be open. With your basic cable there is a good chance you will get some of your local channels in HD as well. But what I found though is that I am going to still have to keep the antenna as not every local channel that is in HD is on the cable system. I dont know if it is true or not but I was reading elsewhere that the digital channels I have may move around quite a bit due to the cable company moving them around for some reason or another. I guess I will see. Anyone else here notice this? I would recommend you just get a spliter and route your cable through it as well.
Yep all I have is basic expanded cable, No Digital. Im curious how much info the TVguide will have when I get home tonight.
Also on a side note you will probably get all the Digital music stations. I believe I got over 50 of them.

Are you also getting cable channels like ESPN in HD? THAT I would kill for! :D

Are you also getting cable channels like ESPN in HD? THAT I would kill for! :D

I was hoping for this as well but so far I didnt find it, Tonight when I get home Im going to take a pen and paper out and mark down what number the Digital and HD channels are at and see if they disappear or change during the month. Since they are not standard basic cable channels they wont show up on the TVguide. Also a strange thing I found while looking at some of the digital channels that they were breaking up like OTA antenna channels do when the antenna was not postioned correctly. Kind of figured that might be some copy protection thing going on but I figured if that was the case it would just be a black screen like some of the other channels it picked up.

How do you play the "Coming Soon to DVD" short program, the only one in the Recordings List? I've highlited & pushed Play and nothing happens. Thanks.

Jim

How do you play the "Coming Soon to DVD" short program, the only one in the Recordings List? I've highlited & pushed Play and nothing happens. Thanks.

Jim

Hmmm,
I just hooked mine up last night and if I recall all I did was hit play.

How do you play the "Coming Soon to DVD" short program, the only one in the Recordings List? I've highlited & pushed Play and nothing happens. Thanks.

Jim
That one baffled me for a while. If you highlight the 'coming soon to DVD' and press 'enter', another line appears below labeled '4/20/2005' or something like that. Highlight that line and hit 'enter' again.

Re RF out: you should NEVER EVER use the RF output from a VCR, cable box or DVR if you care at all about getting the utmost in quality or actually being able to use both at once (unless your TV has only RF input, but then again it would be kind of silly be on this site with one of those). Always split the signal BEFORE it goes into either item.

Alerion: Thanks. Got another question. Go into the System Menu and see what the temperatures are on the two hard drives. My No. 1 is 98 and No. 2 is 109. I wonder why the difference. Also, my unit was built in June 2005. I'm sure I'll have more questions. Thanks to all in advance.

Jim

Can some one tell me when you go in to system menu and you see digital cable signal strength were does it come from ?cable co.?

Re RF out: you should NEVER EVER use the RF output from a VCR, cable box or DVR if you care at all about getting the utmost in quality or actually being able to use both at once (unless your TV has only RF input, but then again it would be kind of silly be on this site with one of those). Always split the signal BEFORE it goes into either item.

Hmmm,
Never heard that one before and I have never had issue with it since I bought one of the first pop top Maganovox VCR's which I still own and it still works if you can believe it.

Well Its been about 14 hours since I put in my zip code for TV guide and no listings have poped up yet. Not to happy about that but hopefully they will come in overnight.

When searching for in the auto programs and you get new channels like analog digital.
What does shown mean

Well Its been about 14 hours since I put in my zip code for TV guide and no listings have poped up yet. Not to happy about that but hopefully they will come in overnight.
The receiver needs to be left off for an extended period. If you turn it on to check listings and it's in the middle of downloading from what I can tell the listings do not update. Near as I can tell, in Grand Rapids analog PBS broadcasts the updates sometime around 6:00 AM and it takes about half the morning to load. Different stations and localities are different. Sure would be nice to be able to get that info of where/when from TVGOS. :confused:

Hmmm,
Never heard that one before and I have never had issue with it since I bought one of the first pop top Maganovox VCR's which I still own and it still works if you can believe it.

The only reason those RF outputs exist is for VCRs, cable boxes and DSS receivers to work with televisions that had only RF inputs, and predates RCA composite connections - never mind HDTV! Splitting the RF signal with a quality 1ghz or better splitter before all of your devices is always a much better idea.

Daniel is absolutely right. My incoming line is split 4 ways to a Moto cable DVR, the HDD500, a Mits D-VHS, and a Sony Plasma TV. You can watch or record on any of these devices while the others are doing something else. Of course your TV must have inputs for all of these devices. NOTHING in my setup uses RF out. The picture is always better via the other digital or analog outputs.

Go into the System Menu and see what the temperatures are on the two hard drives. My No. 1 is 98 and No. 2 is 109. I wonder why the difference.
Jim
My unit is the HDD250, so it only has one drive. The menu shows its temp as 102 every time I have checked. Room ambient is 75 F. I'd guess the higher temp is the drive that's always running.

When I checked yesterday my drive 1 was 113 and drive 2 was 109.

The receiver needs to be left off for an extended period. If you turn it on to check listings and it's in the middle of downloading from what I can tell the listings do not update. Near as I can tell, in Grand Rapids analog PBS broadcasts the updates sometime around 6:00 AM and it takes about half the morning to load. Different stations and localities are different. Sure would be nice to be able to get that info of where/when from TVGOS. :confused:

Well glad to report the listings are now coming in, Only checked the first 2 days this morning, But this is good news. :) I turned on analog OTA PBS and UPN. Dont know if thats where it picked it up or not though as it could have been off cable as well.

When I turned on my unit this morning, the Guide asked me what service I was using, Comcast Analog or Comcast Digital. I hit the wrong one. How can I change this? Thanks.

Jim

Jim - go to the Set Up menu (at top of TV guide screen), choose the second (middle) option. It might be called Change Channel Display? I think that will help you. Sorry if not, but I'm away from the Sony right now and guessing from memory.

Good luck.

Andy

Well checked the guide today after work and it has downloaded 2 days into the listings. I dont believe the listings update 24/7 as someone said in this thread, I believe it starts for a certain time at night and then stops at a certain time. This info seems like it would be done quickly but I guess not, My gemstar update of my guide info for my ATI HDTV wonder updates in all of 2 mins. for about 8 days. Dont quite get why its so slow. I know it isnt broadband but it sure would seem like it could fill the whole guide in about an hours time

I have to amend an earlier post of mine. The Sony seems to have been a bit flaky a couple of times, where formats and modes would not function properly.

You CAN zoom a 720p or 1080i picture, in a way. This is useful with an upconverted HD broadcast with black side bars. Change the format to 480p, then set the mode to side crop. Voila! A zoomed picture.

This all gets very confusing. For example, an analog program does NOT allow any functionality of screen modes when set to 480p. (Here, you can control screen modes with your TV's controls.)

These functions do not seem intuitive to me at all. Maybe I should make a chart of input signals, formats and modes and keep it near my remote. But why is this so complex? Even the funky LG DVR had easy to use screen mode functions with the push of a single button in any program format.

And one more note: One of the times the HDD500 was flaky was while I was on the phone with Sony. The functions I described above were not working --- and the CSR said this was correct, that they are not supposed to work that way. I told him I thought they had previously worked, so he checked with a "product specialist" who confirmed what he said. Yeah, right. They were both wrong. It's too confusing even for them.

Daniel Tonks: I entered 753159852 over the "Change System Settings", then hit "Right" and it showed the host channel as 1:0-3. What channel is this? Thanks.

Jim

Daniel Tonks: I entered 753159852 over the "Change System Settings", then hit "Right" and it showed the host channel as 1:0-3. What channel is this? Thanks.

Jim
I'm not Daniel, but the 3. means that channel 3 analog is carrying the guide info. No idea what the 1:0 stands for. Mine shows 0:0.
Apologies to Daniel, didn't mean to be rude, but saw your question had been sitting out there a while.
Don't turn off channel 3 in your Guide.

I answered my own question. 1:0-3 is analog cable 3, which is the local PBS station. Here are a few comments I have on this unit:

1. I guide loaded in less than two days, while the time showed up in about 7 hours.

2. I'm using the component output. The HD PQ as compared to my D* reciever using a DVI to HDMI adaptor to a Fujitsu P50(40) is actually more pleasing. While the color level is slightly less, the HD PQ is sharper than the D* picture. Maybe because D* just started putting 3 HD channels to a transponder. The Black Level maybe slightly less but I really don't understand Black Level.

3. I am picking up the following HD channels from the QAM demodulator: ESPN HD, TNT HD, Discovery HD, INHD1, INHD2, and TNT HD.

4. Since I am only going to use this unit to record HD, the Guide is a mute point for me. These HD channels do not show up. Only OTA analog & digital and cable analog show up on the Guide. Is this what others are getting? I do not have a cable card.

5. I played the Sony DVD Trailer video that was on the hard drive. It looked good. Playing back from the Recordings List is somewhat tricky. You never do hit the Play button, but rather use the Enter button after highlighting the video description.

More later.

I answered my own question. 1:0-3 is analog cable 3, which is the local PBS station. Here are a few comments I have on this unit:

1. I guide loaded in less than two days, while the time showed up in about 7 hours.

2. I'm using the component output. The HD PQ as compared to my D* reciever using a DVI to HDMI adaptor to a Fujitsu P50(40) is actually more pleasing. While the color level is slightly less, the HD PQ is sharper than the D* picture. Maybe because D* just started putting 3 HD channels to a transponder. The Black Level maybe slightly less but I really don't understand Black Level.

3. I am picking up the following HD channels from the QAM demodulator: ESPN HD, TNT HD, Discovery HD, INHD1, INHD2, and TNT HD.

4. Since I am only going to use this unit to record HD, the Guide is a mute point for me. These HD channels do not show up. Only OTA analog & digital and cable analog show up on the Guide. Is this what others are getting? I do not have a cable card.

5. I played the Sony DVD Trailer video that was on the hard drive. It looked good. Playing back from the Recordings List is somewhat tricky. You never do hit the Play button, but rather use the Enter button after highlighting the video description.

More later.


I wish I was getting all the HD channels without a cablecard, Only one I get over and above the locals is TNT HD, It would be great to get ESPN HD. I did find it strange though that even though I picked basic cable for TVguide it has the whole list for Digital as well but turned off when I edit my channels. Did some remapping as there is no doubt the regular digital channels look better than their analog counterparts.

Daniel Tonks: I entered 753159852 over the "Change System Settings", then hit "Right" and it showed the host channel as 1:0-3. What channel is this? Thanks.

Jim

Thanks for that info, You just saved me from killing my TVguide as I had just changed my PBS channel to its digital counterpart and I would have quit getting guide data. So I just changed it back. I didnt think there was that much difference between regular digital channels and regular analog channels but there really is. Much clearer picture on digital cable.

It seems that TV Guide still has a ways to go for providing HD channel listings... in my area only a small fraction of them are provided, which is a shame as I'd love to be able to use the HDTV Search function in it.

Noticed this tip on the Sony support web site (haven't seen it in this thread yet):

To perform a power reset on the digital video recorder, simultaneously press the EXIT and TV GUIDE buttons. Alternatively, unplugging the power cord from the electrical outlet for 1 minute will also reset the recorder.

It sounds like this is a non-destructive reset, but I haven't tried it yet.

For those of you that don't have the HD channels in your guide... Have you tried adding them manually using the Guide's channel editor (select Setup -> Change Channel Display). Just look for the station's callsign (e.g., ESPN-HD), then enable it and assign your channel number to it.

I have my guide configured for "basic" Time Warner Cable, but I still have about 400 channels that can be manually enabled. They include INHD, ESPN-HD, TNTHD, D-HDTV (Discovery HD), SHOHD, HDNET, HBOHD.

My apologies if everyone has already tried this, but I thought it might not be completely intuitive.

MrU: I don't see the HD channel call signs in the list. I'm getting these via the QAM. Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.

Jim

ps: I was able to find all the call signs (logos') except INHD2. How do I handle that?

is guide data from analog pbs channels and not the digital pbs channels? if this is true, i wonder how it'll receive guide data after the analog blackout.

is guide data from analog pbs channels and not the digital pbs channels? if this is true, i wonder how it'll receive guide data after the analog blackout.
Yes, the guide data is transmitted analog only. Elsewhere in this thread (I think) it was reported that TVGOS is 'working on' a digital version, with no projected release date. It would seem like that would require at the least a software upgrade to our receivers and possibly different hardware. :eek:
Good question!

Thanks Mark that is handy. I didn't know there was a support site for this. Can you pass along the link?

That reset tip is also in the manual.

Spahrkee: http://esupport.sony.com/perl/model-news.pl?mdl=DHGHDD250

I should've checked the manual before posting...

That reset tip is also in the manual.
That tip is not in the edition of the manual that came with my DVR. It is in the online version. What does it reset?
thanks,
Brian

Does scaning for new channels do any thing to the guide??

Angel 35: I did a cable rescan and it did not change the way I had the guide set up.

Does anyone know how to get INHD2 into the guide. I've scanned twice and in almost 400 channels found, no INHD2. INHD did show up. INHD2 is one of 5 HD channels that my QAM is providing. Thanks.

Jim

Angel 35: I did a cable rescan and it did not change the way I had the guide set up.

Does anyone know how to get INHD2 into the guide. I've scanned twice and in almost 400 channels found, no INHD2. INHD did show up. INHD2 is one of 5 HD channels that my QAM is providing. Thanks.

Jim

You are getting alot more HD then I am with no cable card, I wish I was getting all those HD channels without a cable card. Consider yourself lucky that you are getting all that you are for nothing. Only free HD I got above the locals is TNT HD. And even then I am missing one of the local HD channels they carry as well. I still have to keep my antenna for that one and a few others.

Odd, it's at the top of page 83 in the manual that came with my DVR. I believe it just does a hard reboot of the DVR, as opposed to pulling the plug.

The DVR's "Channel List" and the "TV Guide" are essentially completely separate. Where they integrate is:

1) The Channel List must have the station that carries TVGOS data enabled for the Guide to function.

2) The Channel List will pick up station icons from the TVGOS list.