When Sony called to tell me they were sending the update, I was so shocked that I did not think of asking what version they were sending. I did think of asking whether it was a firmware update and the tech answered yes. He also said (in answer to my question) that it would allow the DVR to receive the Guide digitally.

dr bug

If it is something newer than the version 1.2.13 - that I host on
my website - by all means let us know. I can post it for everyone
to share versus calling SONY and waiting for who knows how long.

Hello again everyone.

My package arrived today. I will share everything I can with you, but I know that you will not be happy with everything I will say here.

First,the package was sent from Sony PCSS, 1001 Technology Dr, Mount Pleasant, PA 15566-1782. It came in a small shipping envelope containing a 64MB Sony Microvault Drive with a numbered paper tag and three pages of information.

The drive shows a Sony folder with four files inside. Included in the shipment is documentation with the title:

"Software Update for DHG-HDD250 and DHG-HDD500"

"Because of the transition from analog to digital by all broadcasters, TV Guide update data normallly being broadcast over analog signals will begin being broadcast only over digital signals.

This software update will allow the DHG-HDD250/500 to obtain TV Guide update data from the digital signal"

The first two pages of enclosed information continues with screen shoots and a detailed description of the update process. It explains that the firmware update should take about 2:00 minutes.

The new version of the guide software after the update is supposed to be 1.2.21.

This where I will part company with some of you (I can feel the heat of flames at my back already). There is license agreement attached as part of this mailing (the last printed page). It prohibits me from sharing the files as many of you would like me to do.

I know that many of you will understand, but others will be PO'd. I am sorry. I've already heard from someone who could not convince a support person at Sony to send them the update. I can only suggest that you be vigilant and call back if you are unsuccessful the first time. I do not have a specific support person to refer people to.


*******

I went to do the firmware update and had an "oh no" moment. My listing are back and VBI packets are passing on WNET 13 (PBS). Therefore I've decided to hold off on doing the firmware update. I will obviously retain the drive to use in the event that the data stops between now and June.


dr bug

Hello again everyone.

My package arrived today. I will share everything I can with you, but I know that you will not be happy with everything I will say here.

First,the package was sent from Sony PCSS, 1001 Technology Dr, Mount Pleasant, PA 15566-1782. It came in a small shipping envelope containing a 64MB Sony Microvault Drive with a numbered paper tag and three pages of information.

The drive shows a Sony folder with four files inside. Included in the shipment is documentation with the title:

"Software Update for DHG-HDD250 and DHG-HDD500"

"Because of the transition from analog to digital by all broadcasters, TV Guide update data normallly being broadcast over analog signals will begin being broadcast only over digital signals.

This software update will allow the DHG-HDD250/500 to obtain TV Guide update data from the digital signal"

The first two pages of enclosed information continues with screen shoots and a detailed description of the update process. It explains that the firmware update should take about 2:00 minutes.

The new version of the guide software after the update is supposed to be 1.2.21.

This where I will part company with some of you (I can feel the heat of flames at my back already). There is license agreement attached as part of this mailing (the last printed page). It prohibits me from sharing the files as many of you would like me to do.

I know that many of you will understand, but others will be PO'd. I am sorry. I've already heard from someone who could not convince a support person at Sony to send them the update. I can only suggest that you be vigilant and call back if you are unsuccessful the first time. I do not have a specific support person to refer people to.


*******

I went to do the firmware update and had an "oh no" moment. My listing are back and VBI packets are passing on WNET 13 (PBS). Therefore I've decided to hold off on doing the firmware update. I will obviously retain the drive to use in the event that the data stops between now and June.


dr bug


You can be forgiven for part 1 of your statement, but not part 2. Now you are being simply greedy? You have the (potential) fix that we have all been looking for, and you won't share it. And now you won't even test it to see if it works, because you might lose your listings? :rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes:

Remember how Sony surprised you a couple of days ago by calling to say they were sending you this new firmware? Well just suppose they plan to call you again in a few days to get your feedback on how it worked for you? And suppose they plan to use your feedback to help determine if the firmware is ready for general release on their website?

NYC Metro area is back with analog TVGOS on PBS 13.

You can be forgiven for part 1 of your statement, but not part 2. Now you are being simply greedy? You have the (potential) fix that we have all been looking for, and you won't share it. And now you won't even test it to see if it works, because you might lose your listings? :rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes:

I'm with him....try it. I just did an online chat w Sony and here's the conversation...



eSupport Chat Transcript

Stacy_ > Hi Mike. Welcome to Sony Online Support. I'm Stacy. Please allow me a moment to review your concern.

Stacy_ > Thanks for waiting, Mike. I'll be happy to assist you in providing the information about getting the digital channels in the Digital Video Recorder.

Mike > I have no trouble getting the digital channels. The problem is with the conversion to all digital the TV Guide listing and clock get set usually by the local analog PBS station. After 6/12/2009 there will be NO analog PBS and MANY owners of this product are worried they will become useless

Stacy_ > Are you trying to get the TV Guide display in the Digital Video Recorder?

Mike > What we are trying to do is make the unit receive the TV Guide listings via a DIGITAL TV channel. Supposedly the CBS network will be doing that instead of the PBS stations. Basically, the info is encoded in some part of the analog signal. VCRs works that way now too. They get the time from a local PBS station. When digital turnover occurs alot of machines that ONLY get the TV Guide info will not work. My understanding is Sony has a firmware fix for this. See this URL for what the present buzz is all about http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=537711&pp=30&highlight=dhghdd250&page=526

Stacy_ > Thanks for the information.

Stacy_ > This Digital Video Recorder has both Analog and Digital tuner.

Stacy_ > If the TV Guide is transmitted along with the channels by the broadcaster, it'll be displayed by the unit.

Stacy_ > The TV Guide is not provided by the Sony. TV Guide signals are transmitted along with the channels by the broadcasters.

Stacy_ > Currently, the TV Guide signals are not transmitted along with the Digital Channels.

Stacy_ > If the TV Guide signal is transmitted along with the digital channels, it'll be displayed by the unit.

Stacy_ > There are no Firmware updates available for this unit to receive the TV Guide.

Mike > Alright then.....

Stacy_ > As this Digital Video Recorder has the Digital Tuner, it'll display the TV Guide if it's being received by the unit.

Stacy_ > So, I suggest you to contact your Cable provider or the broadcaster to confirm the information about the transmission of the TV Guide with the channels.

Mike > ok

Mike > I guess that's it....Happy Easter/Passover depending

Stacy_ > You too!

Stacy_ > Is there anything else that I may assist you with today?

Mike > nope...

Stacy_ > Good-bye and thank you for contacting Sony Online Support.

Stacy_ > Analyst has closed chat and left the room

Mike > bye



So...she says there's nothing unless you are a test subject. If you are then please test it. You made a fuss, they gave you something then try it. OR....
you're a Trojan Horse. They sent it to you and want to see if you put it up on the Internet and then they come after you with some illegal software distribution thing. So, again, DO IT or send it back or give it to one of the other people on the forum with the balls to try it

Hello again everyone.

My package arrived today. I will share everything I can with you
[...]

The new version of the guide software after the update is supposed to be 1.2.21.


Interesting wording there, I consider my guide software version to be 8.01.42, but I'm probably just picking nits.


This where I will part company with some of you
[...]
It prohibits me from sharing the files as many of you would like me to do.
I know that many of you will understand, but others will be PO'd.


Since you seem to be the only one on the face of the earth that Sony chooses to share this with, I'd be hesitant to pass it around too. If you did share it, they would know who to come after.

Mark

I'm surprised Sony came out with an update already.

I sold my DHG-HDD500 on ebay last week. I had spent too many hours fighting the mess and thought I should dump it before it was a brick. I could have gotten a better price this week.

I bought a MOXI. The MOXI has missing channels, if used for clear QAM. This surprises their support people. Thus, the MOXI must be used with a cablecard. I only have a few days of QAM use, and 1 day of cablecard use, so it is too soon to judge the MOXI. However, all scheduled programs recorded in HD, and playback during recording has no glitches. I'm still learning the GUI. Things are different from the Sony I was used to.

Warning: Comcast installers have never seen one before and quickly run for the door, when the cablecard does not work. I needed an additional half day of phoning Comcast repair and MOXI to get my DVR correctly authorized. The tech on the phone at Comcast kept calling it a "Tivo," even after I explained that Tivo was a different brand of DVR.

FYI: If you are in California, and you follow the link from MOXI to Amazon you will be charged sales tax and the unit ships from MOXI. If you go to Amazon directly, there is no sales tax and no shipping charge. The unit then ships from Amazon in Nevada.

I had an email chat with Macrovision, and they confirmed that the DHGs cannot utilize digital TVGOS programming without a firmware/TVGOS update. I have heard that it will recieve the update, but if you lose power it reverts back (the TVGOS version). After analog goes out, if you lose power it will revert back and you won't be able to update it because you need to update to recieve the update.......(Catch 22). If it didn't need a firmware update, Sony would not have created one, right? Now we just have to get them to post it on their website.

Going on 3+ weeks now without hardly an intelligent response out of Comcast. Same old song and dance.. must be your machine, we don't support it..etc.. or you need to unplug it......Real lame and pretty poor for such a big company.
Has anyone else in Atlanta gotten their Comcast host back?
Michael

After several frustrating attempts to get THREE Comcast CSR's to understand my TVGOS dilemma, I went on their webpage to the "Contact Us" section and emailed Rick Germano. (I believe he is Comcast's VP of Consumer relations.)

Believe it or not, I got a return phone call from the tech in charge of the TVGOS at my local (West Palm Beach, FL) Comcast plant the next business day!! :D

It took me several days for me to find time to return his call. In the interim I received daily phone calls and an additional email stating they had been trying to reach me for several days!!

Definitely worth a try!!!

http://www.comcast.com/customers/feedback/default.cspx

Let us know if it worked??

Robin

I had an email chat with Macrovision, and they confirmed that the DHGs cannot utilize digital TVGOS programming without a firmware/TVGOS update. I have heard that it will recieve the update, but if you lose power it reverts back (the TVGOS version). After analog goes out, if you lose power it will revert back and you won't be able to update it because you need to update to recieve the update.......(Catch 22). If it didn't need a firmware update, Sony would not have created one, right? Now we just have to get them to post it on their website.

Sorry peteinnj, but many people here (including me) have taken their DHG from a full reset to working again in a digital environment. Macrovision is spreading misinformation so we'll quit bothering them, and start bothering Sony. I'm not saying that people aren't having issues in a digital environment, but for macrovision to say this (quoting from an email they sent me on 4/08/09):

"Once the analog data stops broadcasting over the air in your area, your Sony TV Guide will no longer be able to get data and won’t be able to work"

Is just a lie. It is funny because analog data stopped being broadcast here on 1/5/09, and the DVR still gets updated (with some glitches here and there)even after resets.

(Sorry to jump on you but I'm getting tired of the absolutely wrong information that they are spewing)

Mark

I went to do the firmware update and had an "oh no" moment. My listing are back and VBI packets are passing on WNET 13 (PBS). Therefore I've decided to hold off on doing the firmware update. I will obviously retain the drive to use in the event that the data stops between now and June.

dr bug

You can be forgiven for part 1 of your statement, but not part 2. Now you are being simply greedy? You have the (potential) fix that we have all been looking for, and you won't share it. And now you won't even test it to see if it works, because you might lose your listings? :rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes:

Remember how Sony surprised you a couple of days ago by calling to say they were sending you this new firmware? Well just suppose they plan to call you again in a few days to get your feedback on how it worked for you? And suppose they plan to use your feedback to help determine if the firmware is ready for general release on their website?

Since Drbug now has analog guide data available again, it doesn't seem like installing the firmware upgrade would be able to actually test anything.

However, sending the entire package (and not retaining a copy of the files) to someone who is in a wholly digital environment and can't get their unit to do anything right now would provide a way to find out if it is, indeed, a fix.

After several frustrating attempts to get THREE Comcast CSR's to understand my TVGOS dilemma, I went on their webpage to the "Contact Us" section and emailed Rick Germano. (I believe he is Comcast's VP of Consumer relations.)

Believe it or not, I got a return phone call from the tech in charge of the TVGOS at my local (West Palm Beach, FL) Comcast plant the next business day!! :D

It took me several days for me to find time to return his call. In the interim I received daily phone calls and an additional email stating they had been trying to reach me for several days!!

Definitely worth a try!!!

http://www.comcast.com/customers/feedback/default.cspx

Let us know if it worked??

Robin

Wow! I've had some pretty horrible experiences with comcast support. might have to try that next time http://www.entertainment-place.info/smile/img/2464/*************************

The new version of the guide software after the update is supposed to be 1.2.21.



This is the Sony main firware version not the TVgos firmware !! This would be an update from version 1.2.13.
I have not updated the main firmware in my Sony so I don't know if it causes a reset of channel listings or not ?? If not, then go ahead and try it...You could always go back to version 1.2.13 !!!

I agree! Perhaps DRBUG can let DRHANKZ host the files on the flash drive on his website (as well as the instructions). DRBUG-can ya help us all out here? Please?

I have not updated the main firmware in my Sony so I don't know if it causes a reset of channel listings or not ??

It has been my experience (with 3 firmware updates) that it does not. :)

[Print] Print [Email] Email [Close] Close this is what i got from sony 4-11-09
chat id : 91ba921a-2d6f-4218-a74a-cb6cdd172866
Problem : i need the firmware update flash drive for the unit.1.2.21 is the firmware that is needed thanks

Stacy_ > Hi Mike. Welcome to Sony Online Support. I'm Stacy. Please allow me a moment to review your concern.

Stacy_ > Thanks for waiting, Mike. I'll be happy to assist you in providing the information about the Firmware update for the Digital Video Recorder.

mike > can you send me the firmware in the mail??? it is needed for the unit to receive the tvgos on the digital signal sent by cable co.

Stacy_ > I'm sorry, Mike. There are no Firmware updates for this Digital Video Recorder at this point of time.

mike > yes there is a person received one from the pa office

mike > Received new firmware from Sony todayHello again everyone.My package arrived today. I will share everything I can with you, but I know that you will not be happy with everything I will say here.First,the package was sent from Sony PCSS, 1001 Technology Dr, Mount Pleasant, PA 15566-1782. It came in a small shipping envelope containing a 64MB Sony Microvault Drive with a numbered paper tag and three pages of information.The drive shows a Sony folder with four files inside. Included in the shipment is documentation with the title:"Software Update for DHG-HDD250 and DHG-HDD500""Because of the transition from analog to digital by all broadcasters, TV Guide update data normallly being broadcast over analog signals will begin being broadcast only over digital signals.This software update will allow the DHG-HDD250/500 to obtain TV Guide update data from the digital signal"

Stacy_ > Inorder to receive the TV Guide in this Digital Video Recorder, it's not required to install any Firmware update.

mike > the tvgos went away on cable

mike > can you sent the new f irmware??

Stacy_ > This unit has the Digital tuner and will display the TV Guide, if it's transmitted along with the channels.

mike > is is not working over cable

Stacy_ > Currently, the TV Guide is not transmitted along with the Digital channels.

Stacy_ > The TV Guide signals are transmitted by the brodcasters and Sony has nothing to do with it.

mike > can you send the new firma=ware that the other person recvd

Stacy_ > There is no such Firmware update available for this unit.

mike > why was it listed in the package he recvd??

Stacy_ > May I know from where he got the package?

mike > First,the package was sent from Sony PCSS, 1001 Technology Dr, Mount Pleasant, PA 15566-1782. It came in a small shipping envelope containing a 64MB Sony Microvault Drive with a numbered paper tag and three pages of information.The drive shows a Sony folder with four files inside. Included in the shipment is documentation with the title:"Software Update for DHG-HDD250 and DHG-HDD500""Because of the transition from analog to digital by all broadcasters, TV Guide update data normallly being broadcast over analog signals will begin being broadcast only over digital signals.This software update will allow the DHG-HDD250/500 to obtain TV Guide update data from the digital signal"

Stacy_ > I'm sorry, we do not have the information about any such Firmware update for this unit.

mike > who has????

Stacy_ > However, you may contact our Hotline Support Team with this regard and they'll be happy to further assist you.

Stacy_ > Would you like to have their contact information?

mike > number

Stacy_ > You can contact our Video hotline support team at 239-768-7547 for further assistance in this regard.

Stacy_ > Their hours of operation are as follows: Mon-Fri 9:00AM-10:00PM / Sat-Sun 10:30AM-7:15PM EST

Stacy_ > They'll provide you the available option.

mike > you have no info on this firmware????

Stacy_ > No, Mike.

Stacy_ > We are not aware of any such Firmware update for this unit.

Stacy_ > Is there anything else that I may assist you with today?

mike > no?cccccccc

Stacy_ > Good-bye and thank you for contacting Sony Online Support.

Stacy_ > Analyst has closed chat and left the room

Since Drbug now has analog guide data available again, it doesn't seem like installing the firmware upgrade would be able to actually test anything.

However, sending the entire package (and not retaining a copy of the files) to someone who is in a wholly digital environment and can't get their unit to do anything right now would provide a way to find out if it is, indeed, a fix.

If the updated firmware PREFERS digital for both clock and TVGOS, that would be obvious even to someone who currently has analog available. And it would seem likely to me that since analog will be going away soon the new firmware update should cause the HDDxxx to seek out a digital signal first. Unless of course this update is simply designed to use that SCE127 or whatever it is, which will still leave us at the mercy of the cable company, and do absolutely nothing to help the OTA only people.

[Print] Print [Email] Email [Close] Close this is what i got from sony 4-11-09
chat id : 91ba921a-2d6f-4218-a74a-cb6cdd172866
Problem : i need the firmware update flash drive for the unit.1.2.21 is the firmware that is needed thanks

Stacy_ > Hi Mike. Welcome to Sony Online Support. I'm Stacy. Please allow me a moment to review your concern.

Stacy_ > Thanks for waiting, Mike. I'll be happy to assist you in providing
the information about the Firmware update for the Digital Video Recorder.

SNIP

Stacy_ > Analyst has closed chat and left the room

Wow - they certainly don't use a script for that online chat option, do they?

It has been my experience (with 3 firmware updates) that it does not. :)

ABSOLUTELY CORRECT - the FW update does not effect the listings.

[Print] Print [Email] Email [Close] Close this is what i got from sony 4-11-09
chat id : 91ba921a-2d6f-4218-a74a-cb6cdd172866
Problem : i need the firmware update flash drive for the unit.1.2.21 is the firmware that is needed thanks

Stacy_ > Hi Mike. Welcome to Sony Online Support. I'm Stacy. Please allow me a moment to review your concern.

Stacy_ > Thanks for waiting, Mike. I'll be happy to assist you in providing the information about the Firmware update for the Digital Video Recorder.

mike > can you send me the firmware in the mail??? it is needed for the unit to receive the tvgos on the digital signal sent by cable co.

Stacy_ > I'm sorry, Mike. There are no Firmware updates for this Digital Video Recorder at this point of time.

mike > yes there is a person received one from the pa office

mike > Received new firmware from Sony todayHello again everyone.My package arrived today. I will share everything I can with you, but I know that you will not be happy with everything I will say here.First,the package was sent from Sony PCSS, 1001 Technology Dr, Mount Pleasant, PA 15566-1782. It came in a small shipping envelope containing a 64MB Sony Microvault Drive with a numbered paper tag and three pages of information.The drive shows a Sony folder with four files inside. Included in the shipment is documentation with the title:"Software Update for DHG-HDD250 and DHG-HDD500""Because of the transition from analog to digital by all broadcasters, TV Guide update data normallly being broadcast over analog signals will begin being broadcast only over digital signals.This software update will allow the DHG-HDD250/500 to obtain TV Guide update data from the digital signal"

Stacy_ > Inorder to receive the TV Guide in this Digital Video Recorder, it's not required to install any Firmware update.

mike > the tvgos went away on cable

mike > can you sent the new f irmware??

Stacy_ > This unit has the Digital tuner and will display the TV Guide, if it's transmitted along with the channels.

mike > is is not working over cable

Stacy_ > Currently, the TV Guide is not transmitted along with the Digital channels.

Stacy_ > The TV Guide signals are transmitted by the brodcasters and Sony has nothing to do with it.

mike > can you send the new firma=ware that the other person recvd

Stacy_ > There is no such Firmware update available for this unit.

mike > why was it listed in the package he recvd??

Stacy_ > May I know from where he got the package?

mike > First,the package was sent from Sony PCSS, 1001 Technology Dr, Mount Pleasant, PA 15566-1782. It came in a small shipping envelope containing a 64MB Sony Microvault Drive with a numbered paper tag and three pages of information.The drive shows a Sony folder with four files inside. Included in the shipment is documentation with the title:"Software Update for DHG-HDD250 and DHG-HDD500""Because of the transition from analog to digital by all broadcasters, TV Guide update data normallly being broadcast over analog signals will begin being broadcast only over digital signals.This software update will allow the DHG-HDD250/500 to obtain TV Guide update data from the digital signal"

Stacy_ > I'm sorry, we do not have the information about any such Firmware update for this unit.

mike > who has????

Stacy_ > However, you may contact our Hotline Support Team with this regard and they'll be happy to further assist you.

Stacy_ > Would you like to have their contact information?

mike > number

Stacy_ > You can contact our Video hotline support team at 239-768-7547 for further assistance in this regard.

Stacy_ > Their hours of operation are as follows: Mon-Fri 9:00AM-10:00PM / Sat-Sun 10:30AM-7:15PM EST

Stacy_ > They'll provide you the available option.

mike > you have no info on this firmware????

Stacy_ > No, Mike.

Stacy_ > We are not aware of any such Firmware update for this unit.

Stacy_ > Is there anything else that I may assist you with today?

mike > no?cccccccc

Stacy_ > Good-bye and thank you for contacting Sony Online Support.

Stacy_ > Analyst has closed chat and left the room





What is this? Some dumbass editing of my online chat? What is the purpose of this. Some guy nags Sony to death, gets firmware no one's heard of and now he's afraid to install it. So I ask them if they know anything, post my conversation and someone thinks the above is funny?

Wow - they certainly don't use a script for that online chat option, do they?

I guess not. Ok, they're dumb as rocks. So, I got your attention from posting on your spiffspace page. So what's the answer? Is this guy with the new firmware a plant or something to see if we are willing to violate some sort of asinine software contract?

NO it is MY conversation with them tonight ............ not yours ,I contacted them to see if I good get the firmware, and that was the reply I got from them. so mw390 don't get PO.

I was just able to get an 800 number instead of the 239-768-7547 for the Hotline.
800-222-7669
The support person I chatted with seemed to actually understand the issue...said it couldn't display tvguide information. Although he still could not get me a firmware update. Mine was working fine until another power outage...now I get clock, TVGOS version updates and advertisements...just no channel lineup or listings. At least I can record with a correct clock until such a time that Sony posts the firmware publicly.

I guess not. Ok, they're dumb as rocks. So, I got your attention from posting on your spiffspace page. So what's the answer? Is this guy with the new firmware a plant or something to see if we are willing to violate some sort of asinine software contract?

I know as much as everyone else...just what he told us!

My comment was that the two people who posted their online chats was simply an observation of the similarity between the two (and that these support people appear to be working off scripts).

My thought is that there really is a firmware update available, and this could be a beta test - but we won't know unless he tries it.

I never got one of the original firmware update drives from Sony - but it is quite possible that those drives were accompanied by a similar software license agreement.

The new version of the guide software after the update is supposed to be 1.2.21.Kind of makes you wonder why they were continuing to make updates to the software (versions 1.2.14 ~ 1.2.20), but not releasing them to the public or installing them to DVRs sent in for service.

First,the package was sent from Sony PCSS, 1001 Technology Dr, Mount Pleasant, PA 15566-1782. It came in a small shipping envelope containing a 64MB Sony Microvault Drive with a numbered paper tag and three pages of information.

dr bug

drbug, did the three pages of information you received with the drive suggest that you are some sort of beta tester? It seems Sony would want to make it clear if this update wasn't ready for widespread release. Would you be able to scan the three pages and post them on this forum?

All I was really trying to say is that, according to macrovision, 8.6.44 is less than 8.1.65.

Mark
My point with regard to your comments was that the page cited does NOT say that 8.6.44 is "less than" 8.1.65!

The 8.1.65 refers to the BASE version - which is what Macrovision says determines basic digital compatibility - while 8.6.44 (as noted in the cited page, and as we all know) is a PATCH!

The other point I was making (not in response to YOUR post) is that Macrovision mostly gives us the runaround (as demonstrated in the last day's worth of posts)...

First,the package was sent from Sony PCSS, 1001 Technology Dr, Mount Pleasant, PA 15566-1782.I don't own one of these boxes, but I find this thread very interesting.

Why doesn't someone call Sony in Mr. Pleasant PA at the phone number listed in the directory at that address: (724) 696-7000. [note: I've not tried that number myself]

Try talking with someone there to get more information and details about this firmware upgrade.

Summary of my experience with Sony concerning this issue; No Guide via digital downloads over the last month or so:

My last encounter last week was at least “odd”: Right after I had the last phone call with first tier support; they confirmed my Ref # etc. and that the firmware was being worked on and that I would be sent email notification when it would ready.

Since then, I got three emails in a row (none requested by me). The emails I received had nothing to do with this specific problem, and each time I responded to their emails, I only received information further “off track”. Because that correspondence became futile I just dropped it.

One of the links they did send me was this one. It looked promising but not really on target. I could not make it work. Maybe someone else can have better luck with it?

The TV Guide On Screen® system listing does not appear for DTV stations.

http://www.kb.sony.com/selfservice/documentLink.do?externalId=C1002852&sliceId=1


During the last month or so, when I have been fortunate to get to a “Product Specialist” (about 3 times I think) and they would go off script and did “know” what they were talking about (or at least try to find out) – they always seemed to be very positive that a Sony “fix” would be required to make the units function correctly in a digital world.

The suggestion above contacting PA directly might be a good idea – but that may be a repair facility only?

Well in about 60 days I guess we will all know something even if it’s nothing!

I never got one of the original firmware update drives from Sony - but it is quite possible that those drives were accompanied by a similar software license agreement.

The License is EXACTLY the Same License that is in the
back of every MANUAL. See page 86 and 87. It is an OPEN
SOURCE GNU License. Every piece of SW has that same
general license.

It is to PROTECT the Copyright Owner - SONY - but any OWNER
of the DEVICE is granted a right to use the software on that
UNIT.

The person who supposedly has the FW is just being ----------:mad:

Well, no update listed on Sony's site yet.
drbug

If you are indeed in possession of a drive supplied to you by Sony with an updated firmware version, try it and post again on the results. There are many people here who would like to know, including me. I have called Sony 3 times and had the same results as most here "there is no firmware update currently available". This is pretty much what all 3 techs said to me.

Oh, on another note, does anyone know how to make the unit stay on the video output mode selected? I have to change it to 720p every time I turn it on because it always reverts back to auto hdmi. My tv is 720 and the channels change quicker when set to 720p, it just won't stay there like my tivos will.

I believe that if you update your firmware to 1.2.13 (or newer if you can manage to wrestle the latest update from DrBug's hands) that it will cure your problem. :D

I'll be a test subject...I have two units running .13, and would be happy to try .21

PM me, and I'll be glad to try one of them.........

I'll send back the update.

NY Metro Area..TVGOS is currently analog channel 13

My point with regard to your comments was that the page cited does NOT say that 8.6.44 is "less than" 8.1.65!

The 8.1.65 refers to the BASE version - which is what Macrovision says determines basic digital compatibility - while 8.6.44 (as noted in the cited page, and as we all know) is a PATCH!


You are right, they do seem to be saying that the base version needs to be 8.1.65, instead of 8.1.42 regardless of the patch level. I thought that previously the belief was that if you could get from version 8.1.42 to version 8.6.44 then you would be ok, since 8.6.44 appears to be a higher version than 8.1.65 (the supposed minimum version that supports digital). I was pointing out that the .1. and .6. don't really figure into the version number.


The other point I was making (not in response to YOUR post) is that Macrovision mostly gives us the runaround (as demonstrated in the last day's worth of posts)...

In my last post, I should have commented that I totally agree with your view of macrovision "support".

Mark

The drive shows a Sony folder with four files inside.

Four files? Previous updates had only three, and the factory default software in the first partition of the DVR's hard drive(s) has only three files as well. What's the name of the fourth file (if that isn't classified too :rolleyes:)?

I sense that our collective chain is being yanked. But if this update is for real, someone else will get it soon enough.

Oh, on another note, does anyone know how to make the unit stay on the video output mode selected? I have to change it to 720p every time I turn it on because it always reverts back to auto hdmi. My tv is 720 and the channels change quicker when set to 720p, it just won't stay there like my tivos will.


I had a 720p Samsung TV that did that too. Look at the information button on the TV, when playing the DHG HDD. Does your TV say it is receiving 720p OR is it receiving 1080i; when the Sony is on AutoHDMI.

I have found "some" TVs that will let you force the HDMI to any setting you wanted and other TV's would only go with AutoHDMI on the Sony. I had one that would go with "native".

I have noticed about 4 different ways the HDMI would work with different TVs

If the Sony box is correctly choosing 720p to send to the TV via the AutoHDMI setting (confirmed by looking at info on the TV set).......then it is unlikely there is anything you can do about it (other than changing to component).

You are right, they do seem to be saying that the base version needs to be 8.1.65, instead of 8.1.42 regardless of the patch level. I thought that previously the belief was that if you could get from version 8.1.42 to version 8.6.44 then you would be ok, since 8.6.44 appears to be a higher version than 8.1.65 (the supposed minimum version that supports digital). I was pointing out that the .1. and .6. don't really figure into the version number.Those of us who can remember back to BA (Before Ads), the downloaded patch version we were running then was 8.06.30 (the ad-free predecessor to 8.06.44). Clearly 8.06.30 was a "higher" version than 8.01.42 because it was downloaded as a patch/fix/whatever to 8.01.42 (even though it ended in 30). Therefore this logic does not hold up.

Note that in addition to ads, I believe 8.06.44 ushered in the "new" daylight savings time, which was enacted by congress in 2005, but did not have any effect until March of 2007; I suspect the ads started appearing between Nov 2006 and Mar 2007 and were part of the same overall patch.

There is license agreement attached as part of this mailing (the last printed page). It prohibits me from sharing the files as many of you would like me to do.

dr bug

Care to post the exact written language that you believe to be binding on you here?

And out of curiosity, how did you come to read every word of a boilerplate legal insertion- that comes with any software- and which most people ignore.

.........................................

Maybe someone will correct me, but I don't remember that SONY ever placed the .13 firmware on their site. Someone who got it, freely made it available to anyone who was interested and effected- with absolutely no consequences.

Quote:
Originally Posted by drbug View Post
There is license agreement attached as part of this mailing (the last printed page). It prohibits me from sharing the files as many of you would like me to do.

dr bug
Care to post the exact written language that you believe to be binding on you here?

And out of curiosity, how did you come to read every word of a boilerplate legal insertion- that comes with any software- and which most people ignore.

.........................................

Not that I give a darn. But it was anything of value was exchanged for that update? Did you pay Sony money for that update.

I would find it unbeleivable that sony would actually take legal action for something that was given freely. With a product that is obsolete. The judge would throw them out.

Good one DRBuG. thanks for the laff.

HDAddiction

Those of us who can remember back to BA (Before Ads), the downloaded patch version we were running then was 8.06.30 (the ad-free predecessor to 8.06.44). Clearly 8.06.30 was a "higher" version than 8.01.42 because it was downloaded as a patch/fix/whatever to 8.01.42 (even though it ended in 30). Therefore this logic does not hold up.

Note that in addition to ads, I believe 8.06.44 ushered in the "new" daylight savings time, which was enacted by congress in 2005, but did not have any effect until March of 2007; I suspect the ads started appearing between Nov 2006 and Mar 2007 and were part of the same overall patch.

Thanks for clearing that up. avnstf already corrected me on trying to compare base version numbers to patch version numbers. So 08.06.30 was the 30th patch to the base version (08.01.42), and 08.06.44 is the 44th patch to the base version.

Mark

I live in Chicago and have three DHG-HDD 500's with 1.2.13 firmware connected via OTA only. I performed the following tests on all three units:

I did the G* test on channel 2.1 (CBS), and then the VBI test on channel 2.1 and turned the unit off overnight leaving it overnight.

Two of the units picked up and display 0:3-0 as the host channel, which is the actual digital channel number of CBS. One does not display any host channel, but the listings are still coming.

I performed the procedure on the "faulty" unit again just to make sure I did not do something wrong, and the results were the same.

There were two differences in the operation of the tests on the "faulty" unit that will not pick up the digital host:

First, the unit took around 18 seconds for the VBI data to start incrementing when performing the G* test. The other two units starting incrementing in less than 10 seconds.

Second, the unit was turned on the next morning and used during the day. The other two units were left off for almost 24 hours. I'm not sure if this matters or not.

Anyway, I just thought I would post this experience in case it helps anyone. If there is any information you need me to compare between my units, let me know.

Thanks.

Mark

Hello All,
I don't believe DRBUg has the update file from Sony. Here is S. Florida there is no analog cbs stations anymore. I have been calling sony everyday for weeks and getting nowhere. I did the same with Macrovision. They did send me a reply stating that the firmware 8.1.42 will not load the channel grid AT ALL. I can confirm this since I have tried for 3 weeks to recover on one of my DHG 250's from a factory reset. My other 250 gets the listing just fine . I beg ANYBODY who has the new firmware PLEASE post it. I really don't believe that it does exist. I'm very close to buying a TIVO. Monday I will again call Sony and try to find out if they plan a firmware that will replace the 8.1.42. This is the number that is on the screene when you do the g-test. I don't even know if it's possible to update that firmware. Updating to 1.2.13 won't help at ALL. I have done it and it does nothing. I'm only OTA and have no catv in my area. Does anybody know if the 8.1.42 can be permently replaced and not with a patch such as 8.1.44. I will offer to test on any update since there is no way for me to get a analog signal.

Thanks SS-stingray

Hello All,
I don't believe DRBUg has the update file from Sony. Here is S. Florida there is no analog cbs stations anymore. I have been calling sony everyday for weeks and getting nowhere. I did the same with Macrovision. They did send me a reply stating that the firmware 8.1.42 will not load the channel grid AT ALL. I can confirm this since I have tried for 3 weeks to recover on one of my DHG 250's from a factory reset.

Like much of what Macrovision spews out, that statement sure begs a few questions. These units have been working (with minor glitches) for a long time. Isn't the VBI data contained in the SCTE127 stream supposed to be exactly the same as it always was in the analog VBI? If so, then why would it matter where it came from? The base software version builds a channel lineup from an analog host but not a digital host? Why, why, why would that be? :mad:

----
As I read through other TVGOS threads here, I see that some people that have TVs with 08.01.65 and higher (which is supposed to work) aren't faring any better than the DHGs are. Whatever the problem may be, it affects more than just our Sonys.

I live in Tucson, AZ and the local PBS Analog station shut off recently. My DHG-HDD no longer has the time or gets channel listing. I tried the VBI test on my CBS stations (13.1) and it failed with no packets received. I use it for OTA only. I tried the Factory Reset for the TVGOS and get no guide or clock. Any ideas?

HI everyone, I live outside Hartford ct on comcast cable basic, and lost my listings three weeks ago. I CALL MY PBS STATION in htfd to find out info on the listings not being there and was told they are sending it out OTA. SO I hooked up my set of rabbit ears to my hdd500's and rescanned to receive ota and cable channels, the listings came back, and I looked in the tvgos host channel was being sent from my pbs 24 ota,which was being sent on cable 7 before the lost of listings.

I live in Tucson, AZ and the local PBS Analog station shut off recently. My DHG-HDD no longer has the time or gets channel listing. I tried the VBI test on my CBS stations (13.1) and it failed with no packets received. I use it for OTA only. I tried the Factory Reset for the TVGOS and get no guide or clock. Any ideas?
Are you sure your CBS is broadcasting the TVGOS information and not PBS? Our PBS digital here is broadcasting the digital TVGOS and its working fine here. Try doing the G* test on your digital PBS channel.

HI everyone, I live outside Hartford ct on comcast cable basic, and lost my listings three weeks ago. I CALL MY PBS STATION in htfd to find out info on the listings not being there and was told they are sending it out OTA. SO I hooked up my set of rabbit ears to my hdd500's and rescanned to receive ota and cable channels, the listings came back, and I looked in the tvgos host channel was being sent from my pbs 24 ota,which was being sent on cable 7 before the lost of listings.

Comcast is also sending it out on Ch. 24 digital which is 24-1 or 240 depending on whether you have a cablecard or not.

HI then why is my host being 0.24 and not 1.24.1?? when did they start on sending it out on 24.1 because my hdd only see it on ota.

HI then why is my host being 0.24 and not 1.24.1?? when did they start on sending it out on 24.1 because my hdd only see it on ota.

I started getting TVGOS packets around 3/25 on Comcast channels 24-1 and 240 - about 5 days after CPTV got the digital TVGOS equipment online. I have both cable and OTA and I, too, have 0.24-1 as the host. It doesn't really matter to me right now since I get listings either way....

Check the local Comcast CT thread and jzareski from CPTV is providing updates as to the transition status. Last week he reported that Macrovision has turned back on their legacy analog TVGOS and it was already being sent to CPTV (this, of course, will go dark for good on 6/12).

SO how do I MAKE MY HDD500 GET IT from 24.1 as the host??

Hello All,
I don't believe DRBUg has the update file from Sony. Here is S. Florida there is no analog cbs stations anymore. I have been calling sony everyday for weeks and getting nowhere. I did the same with Macrovision. They did send me a reply stating that the firmware 8.1.42 will not load the channel grid AT ALL. I can confirm this since I have tried for 3 weeks to recover on one of my DHG 250's from a factory reset. My other 250 gets the listing just fine . I beg ANYBODY who has the new firmware PLEASE post it. I really don't believe that it does exist. I'm very close to buying a TIVO. Monday I will again call Sony and try to find out if they plan a firmware that will replace the 8.1.42. This is the number that is on the screene when you do the g-test. I don't even know if it's possible to update that firmware. Updating to 1.2.13 won't help at ALL. I have done it and it does nothing. I'm only OTA and have no catv in my area. Does anybody know if the 8.1.42 can be permently replaced and not with a patch such as 8.1.44. I will offer to test on any update since there is no way for me to get a analog signal.

Thanks SS-stingray

Macrovision is wrong on this, but I won't argue the point here. Since you are at your wits end with this, I'd like for you to try recovering your system from a 'TV Guide - Reset to factory defaults' reset. Instead of following the procedures that involve forcing a host channel, do the following:

First, verify you have a digital station that is transmitting VBI data by tuning to it and running a G* Test. If the VBI packets count up then proceed, otherwise you need to find another station that is carrying the digital data.

1) After you find your digital host station, do the TV - Guide reset to factory defaults (WARNING: Do not do this if you are uncertain whether there is a digital or analog station transmitting VBI data in your area).

2) After the reset, run the G* Test (in a digital environment it is imperative that you run the G* Test after a reset, because I have concluded that a reset shuts off the processing of digital VBI data, and the only way to turn it on is to run the G* Test on a digital channel that passes the G* Test).

3) Go into the 753 menu and check whether the reset has wiped your unit back to patch 00.00.00. If your unit is still at 08.06.44, then you are lucky and can skip to step 10.

4) Turn off the DVR (it doesn't matter whether you leave it tuned to your host channel or not).

5) Wait for the first patch to load (08.05.40). It should load in less than 3 hours. Just turn on the DVR, go into the 753 menu, and look to see if it has updated (do this every 2 hours or so).

6) When the patch has loaded, tune to your host channel, and run the G* Test. This is important because patch downloads also shut off the proceesing of digital data.

7) Turn off the DVR (once again the channel doesn't matter).

8) Wait for the second patch to load (08.06.44). This will take longer than the first patch, so check every 4 hours (or wait overnight).

9) When the patch has loaded, tune to your host channel, and run the G* Test.

10) Turn off the DVR (the channel doesn't matter), and leave overnight.

11) If your clock is wrong, then there may be a problem with the VBI data in your area. Wait until the clock corrects itself before continuing.

12) About 3 times a day check to see if you have a channel lineup. If you don't have a channel lineup after 48 hours, you probably aren't going to get one, and this procedure hasn't worked for you.

Avoid doing the force host channel procedure. This is only necessary for people who are trying to get their DVR to use a digital host when there is an analog host in the area. It isn't needed for people who are digital only.

Mark

theratpatrol

Neither my PBS Digital or CBS Digital get any VBI Data.

I live in Tucson, AZ and the local PBS Analog station shut off recently. My DHG-HDD no longer has the time or gets channel listing. I tried the VBI test on my CBS stations (13.1) and it failed with no packets received. I use it for OTA only.

Seems to me that it's odd that according to Macrovision's page here:

http://digitaltransition.macrovision.com/digtrans.aspx

the various cable companies in your area are supposed to be transmitting the data.

I was under the impression that they don't get it independently but pick it up from the broadcast channel that carries it and then they retransmit. If that's correct, and it is working on a local cable system, then see if you can find out on what channel it's working.

mark,
I have already done all the above that you posted. I'm getting great vbi about 120 per min. I live in S. Florida and analog was shut down in Feb. Macrovision had me fill a whole page of info from the 7531 page. Their responce was as I posted that I or anyelse can't recover the grid from a digital only source. They said Sony must address the issue. I get the update patches 8.1.44 and I get all the ads. No channels or listing just the message NO DATA . My other dhg is still working but I didn't do a factory reset. I did the other one by accident when doing the g-test. Maybe macrovision was just blowing me off to get rid of me telling me this. Right now I believe that Sony is mostlt to blame for this.I have a DTV converter box on order to see if converting the 11.1 signal to ch 3 analog will get the grid going. Why won't Sony let me who has a digital only source try the software ? Drbug is only pulling our chain.......

Thanks for you ideas
ss-stingray

I get the update patches 8.1.44 and I get all the ads.

Try different zip codes.

I have to agree here. My wiped unit didn't get grid back until Analog 13 came back on line. My un-wiped unit had grid but "no listings".

I'd be very careful NOT to wipe my unit. At worst you'll end up with a "VCR", but if you wipe, you may not recover.

I am willing to try any new Sony Updates, if they exist.

Also, Sony makes a LOT of DVR units for other countries, so there is clearly an engineering staff and department-whether the unit is fed with ATSC tuners, or DVB-T, or whatever, is just a chip. The staff is there......

mark,
I have already done all the above that you posted. I'm getting great vbi about 120 per min. I live in S. Florida and analog was shut down in Feb. Macrovision had me fill a whole page of info from the 7531 page. Their responce was as I posted that I or anyelse can't recover the grid from a digital only source. They said Sony must address the issue. I get the update patches 8.1.44 and I get all the ads. No channels or listing just the message NO DATA . My other dhg is still working but I didn't do a factory reset. I did the other one by accident when doing the g-test. Maybe macrovision was just blowing me off to get rid of me telling me this. Right now I believe that Sony is mostlt to blame for this.I have a DTV converter box on order to see if converting the 11.1 signal to ch 3 analog will get the grid going. Why won't Sony let me who has a digital only source try the software ? Drbug is only pulling our chain.......

Thanks for you ideas
ss-stingray

So you have done this by only doing the G* Test, and did not do the "force host channel" (entering 963214785) that is in the recovery procedure?

The reason I say this is, last night I was comparing the notes I made when trying to recover from a total reset, the first time it failed to get a channel lineup, I used the force host procedure every time I turned the unit on to check on it. The last time I recovered from a reset, I got the channel lineup, but I only did the G* Test and never did the force host channel. I thought there may have been a correlation there, but I could be wrong. I am digital only here, and I have recovered my unit from a complete reset. So what macrovision told you does not apply to me here, but maybe there is something wrong with the data in other areas of the country that is causing the failed recovery.

Mark

SO how do I MAKE MY HDD500 GET IT from 24.1 as the host??

Probably the best way would be to disconnect your antenna and let the unit acquire 24-1 from cable. To make sure you're receiving VBI data on that channel, tune to 24-1 on Comcast and run the G* test and make sure the VBI packets are incrementing.

I have to agree here. My wiped unit didn't get grid back until Analog 13 came back on line. My un-wiped unit had grid but "no listings".

I'd be very careful NOT to wipe my unit. At worst you'll end up with a "VCR", but if you wipe, you may not recover.
[...]


I agree, you should be very careful before resetting (thus my "WARNING" statement), but in ss-stingray's case his DVR is already a VCR so it can't hurt anything, as long as there still is TVGOS data in his area.

Mark

HI yes I did that and the vbi is incoming on 24.1 digital thanks.

Like much of what Macrovision spews out, that statement sure begs a few questions. These units have been working (with minor glitches) for a long time. Isn't the VBI data contained in the SCTE127 stream supposed to be exactly the same as it always was in the analog VBI? If so, then why would it matter where it came from? The base software version builds a channel lineup from an analog host but not a digital host? Why, why, why would that be? :mad:

----
As I read through other TVGOS threads here, I see that some people that have TVs with 08.01.65 and higher (which is supposed to work) aren't faring any better than the DHGs are. Whatever the problem may be, it affects more than just our Sonys.

My 250 is dead on the water. I called Sony Tech Support who in turn elevated my issue, to their second level of support or "product specialist"(No Clock or TVGOS listing) they told me that Sony is forking on a fix for the box to receive digital TVGOS. When I mentioned that I at one time had the unit with a digital host and that CBS 2.1 is confirmed to be sending out digital TVGO the tech just said I have to wait for the fix. Since I have read a lot of your posts and you are in my general area, can you confirm if a) channel 28 stopped sending analog TVGOS, b) is CBS 2,1 transmitting TVGOS, and lastly is there any hope for me short of waiting for Macrovision/TVGOS and Sony coming up with a fix. I did a restore to factory setting a week ago and so far the clock is wrong 7 hours advance an of course no listing. If you think of anything I can try please respond. Otherwise, I'll go with TIVO! Thanks

Oh, on another note, does anyone know how to make the unit stay on the video output mode selected? I have to change it to 720p every time I turn it on because it always reverts back to auto hdmi. My tv is 720 and the channels change quicker when set to 720p, it just won't stay there like my tivos will.

My ONLY Solution is use Component

Thx drhankz, not a huge deal. I just wondered if I was doing something wrong. I might do that, I have noticed no difference in PQ between the two connections.
Am I the only one who thinks that "drbug" is just here to cause problems? Does anyone really believe he got a flashdrive from Sony that no-one else can get? I would bet that if Sony does come out with a firmware update, that they will require us to send in the unit for upgrade at a cost. They went to significant lengths to insure no-one could put in a different hard drive, so I doubt they will issue a fix for free on a product that is not only out of production but not available for retail sale for quite some time. I will continue to check the support site, but at least I can still record shows.{for now}:)

My 250 is dead on the water. I called Sony Tech Support who in turn elevated my issue, to their second level of support or "product specialist"(No Clock or TVGOS listing) they told me that Sony is forking on a fix for the box to receive digital TVGOS. When I mentioned that I at one time had the unit with a digital host and that CBS 2.1 is confirmed to be sending out digital TVGO the tech just said I have to wait for the fix. Since I have read a lot of your posts and you are in my general area, can you confirm if a) channel 28 stopped sending analog TVGOS, b) is CBS 2,1 transmitting TVGOS, and lastly is there any hope for me short of waiting for Macrovision/TVGOS and Sony coming up with a fix. I did a restore to factory setting a week ago and so far the clock is wrong 7 hours advance an of course no listing. If you think of anything I can try please respond. Otherwise, I'll go with TIVO! Thanks

KCBS 2-1 is definitely sending digital TVGOS data. KTTV 11 (FOX) is definitely sending analog. I have heard/read somewhere here that KCET 28 turned their analog back on (it was off). I don't recall if you are OTA or cable or both, but if you can pull in either 11 or 28 you should be able to get your 250 back up and going. I'm OTA only and both my units are back to using 11 for now.

*******

I went to do the firmware update and had an "oh no" moment. My listing are back and VBI packets are passing on WNET 13 (PBS). Therefore I've decided to hold off on doing the firmware update. I will obviously retain the drive to use in the event that the data stops between now and June.


dr bug

I can't help but wonder if drbug is full of crap. Just out of curiosity I googled the return address. It didn't pull up many hits which is odd for a commercial address, but the "birds eye" satellite view clearly shows a Sony sign in front of that warehouse.

http://maps.live.com/default.aspx?v=2&FORM=LMLTCC&cp=qpyb3n8c19s4&style=b&lvl=2&tilt=-90&dir=0&alt=-1000&phx=0&phy=0&phscl=1&scene=24430459&encType=1

So if this is some kind of beta-test, I think it only appropriate to test it, give it to someone else to test, or send it back to Sony so they can send it to someone else.

Thx drhankz, not a huge deal. I just wondered if I was doing something wrong. I might do that, I have noticed no difference in PQ between the two connections.

I have done EXTENSIVE Frame-by-Frame comparison of
PQ between Component and HDMI on the DHG and I can
not see a pixel of difference on a 13ft. Screen.

AFTER ALL - nothing is more than 1080i and Component
is fine for 1080i.

The other BENEFIT you will enjoy is Channel Surfing is
MUCH faster because a HDMI handshake occurs every
time. Now it won't do that.

I have (6) Sony DVRs and (2) TiVo DVRs and use Component
on all of them. I only use HDMI for Blu-Ray

I have (6) Sony DVRs and (2) TiVo DVRs

It begs to be asked: why?

KCBS 2-1 is definitely sending digital TVGOS data. KTTV 11 (FOX) is definitely sending analog. I have heard/read somewhere here that KCET 28 turned their analog back on (it was off). I don't recall if you are OTA or cable or both, but if you can pull in either 11 or 28 you should be able to get your 250 back up and going. I'm OTA only and both my units are back to using 11 for now.

Should I just wait it out? Or is there anyway I can set the clock to at least use the DVR for manual recording. I can't believe how we miss this thing. Oh by the way I am OTA and Cable, no cable card. My analog reception for channels 28 and 11 is spotty at best. Should I try doing a VBI search on channel 11?

Last time I did a full reset it took 1 week for the correct time to set and another week for for the listings to fill in. About two weeks ago I lost all listing and the clock was off 1 hour. I thought I could get the listing back by doing the reset. Any suggestions?

KCBS 2-1 is definitely sending digital TVGOS data. KTTV 11 (FOX) is definitely sending analog. I have heard/read somewhere here that KCET 28 turned their analog back on (it was off). I don't recall if you are OTA or cable or both, but if you can pull in either 11 or 28 you should be able to get your 250 back up and going. I'm OTA only and both my units are back to using 11 for now.

My box is getting VBI on 97 which is the remap of KCET on TWC in Thousand Oaks. I believe it is just the analog feed of 28.
I get no VBI on the TWC KCBS digital feeds.
My advice is to leave it on analog 28 and check for VBI. If you get it leave it on 28 and turn it off for at least 24 hours and see if the box changes software version. If you have the patience, change zip codes, try 91360(Thousand Oaks) if your reception is OTA. The box won't know the difference. Note if it retunes to 1, if so put it back on 28. This is good, it means it has incremented a version.

I personally am worried about the full digital if TWC doesn't forward the VBI. I can see them doing it just to push their boxes. BTW, my box is at 08.06.44, but it was painful getting there, taking a huge amount of patience. I'll likely sell mine at some point.

Which station?

CBS 19.1 (WLTX, Columbia)

Should I just wait it out? Or is there anyway I can set the clock to at least use the DVR for manual recording. I can't believe how we miss this thing. Oh by the way I am OTA and Cable, no cable card. My analog reception for channels 28 and 11 is spotty at best. Should I try doing a VBI search on channel 11?

Last time I did a full reset it took 1 week for the correct time to set and another week for for the listings to fill in. About two weeks ago I lost all listing and the clock was off 1 hour. I thought I could get the listing back by doing the reset. Any suggestions?

See Kelliot's post just below yours. If your cable provider has analog 28 somewhere that would seem to be a good bet. You could also try zip 90012 (downtown L.A.) to see if that speeds things up. :)

Assuming Sony comes up with a "fix" (and I tend to think they will); then it should solve all the problems for OTA folks; but it may only solve about 75-80% of the problems for the cable folks. The reason I say that the cable companies have several choices on sending TV Guide. Stay with and maintain analogue, or digital, or both, or neither. Let's face it the cable companies want to push their "own" boxes.

The disappointing factor is the lack of Sony's public standing on the issue. It's been about 3 months already with the problems, and there is no general indication either by phone or on their web site where they stand. Honestly, that would be a big turn off for me, if I were to consider one of those high ticket XBR8's or 10's or 12's. It demonstrates a lack of commitment and support for their products. They should make their position known to their customers.

I have done EXTENSIVE Frame-by-Frame comparison of
PQ between Component and HDMI on the DHG and I can
not see a pixel of difference on a 13ft. Screen.

AFTER ALL - nothing is more than 1080i and Component
is fine for 1080i.

The other BENEFIT you will enjoy is Channel Surfing is
MUCH faster because a HDMI handshake occurs every
time. Now it won't do that.

I have (6) Sony DVRs and (2) TiVo DVRs and use Component
on all of them. I only use HDMI for Blu-Ray

Awesome, I am using two tivos on my main theater on a Carada 115" screen with a Benq W5000 projector. I only use HDMI on my Sony 550 BD Player and component on the two TiVo's. I have noticed that it depends greatly on the source material as far as PQ goes. My HDD250 now resides on my Panasonic Viera 42" Plasma which is 720p. I highly recommend component video on anything other than Blu-Ray, as it is the only source of 1080p. Some of the Fox shows seem to be almost as good and are only 720p.

FWIW,
Don't know if drbugs update is a joke or not but I was sent an update for my Sony Bravia TV the same way. A microvault USB.
2-500's OTA only
After a 1 1/2 weeks both use 3-0 as host and both have switched from digital clock set back to CBS 0-2 but have ful 8 day listings.

I can't help but wonder if drbug is full of crap. Just out of curiosity I googled the return address. It didn't pull up many hits which is odd for a commercial address, but the "birds eye" satellite view clearly shows a Sony sign in front of that warehouse.

http://maps.live.com/default.aspx?v=2&FORM=LMLTCC&cp=qpyb3n8c19s4&style=b&lvl=2&tilt=-90&dir=0&alt=-1000&phx=0&phy=0&phscl=1&scene=24430459&encType=1

So if this is some kind of beta-test, I think it only appropriate to test it, give it to someone else to test, or send it back to Sony so they can send it to someone else.

If you pan out from the map, you will see the old manaufacturing plant where Sony used to make SXRD RPTV's. It is stll the Sony Technology Center, but a mere shell of what it used to be...

It begs to be asked: why?

3 Theaters - 2 in Each :D

3 Theaters -

One for each of your wives? :cool:

So you have done this by only doing the G* Test, and did not do the "force host channel" (entering 963214785) that is in the recovery procedure?

Yes Mark I did the force host and that never got back the grid. I also did change my zip to a nearby .Then I set the zip to all zerro's and same result. I wish my unit could work as a vcr but with no grid it's usless. Macrovision stated that I cannot recover from a reset and for the last three weeks I have tried everything. Will Sony even be able to fix this? If they don't I will never buy another product they make.How many DHg would have sold if they stated that these won't work after Feb. 17 2009 ? I bought two since the high def was the future. With all the hype of the big analog shut down Sony had plenty of time to be ready. My point is at this point sony may never really come up with a solution to this,after all these were made way back in 2005. So if drbug is reading this PLEASE send me the so called software you have . I WILL post my results so others may be enjoying the expencive boat anchors that Sony sold us.

ss- stingray

So you have done this by only doing the G* Test, and did not do the "force host channel" (entering 963214785) that is in the recovery procedure?

Yes Mark I did the force host and that never got back the grid.

Read my message again, I suggested that you don't do the force host procedure, and see what happens (only the G* Test).

Mark

I have (6) Sony DVRs and (2) TiVo DVRs
It begs to be asked: why?
So he can record 10 things at once. :D

First post!
I have the same problem. I've been reading back more than 20 pages. You mention the 753* menu an another. All I know is 9012. These special menus, how to you see them? Is a list documented? PS I live in the Jacksonville Fla area and the VBI is on 7.1 or 7.2.

Just an update... My full listings are back after a Factory Reset and giving the analog host station a week untouched. Things are good.

Fingers crossed for how long.

I hate the idea that I'm just one power loss away from my DVR being a brick once CBS stops their analog broadcasting.

I'll be closely following the news on the digital-host firmware update...

One for each of your wives? :cool:

Close guess - I need one more wife to EQUAL DVRs :mad:

CBS 19.1 (WLTX, Columbia)

That's the one I've been sort of using for the last couple of weeks, since WUNF in Asheville shut down analog TVGOS. I have two Sonys. I did a TVGOS reset on one of them, and like you, I'm getting only ads and the clock from WLTX on that unit, no channel linup or program listings. The other unit still has the channel lineup that it downloaded from WUNF, and it's getting program listings from WLTX. On both units, the "host channel" field in the 753159852 diagnostic screens is blank.

There have been a couple of reports (in the local Columbia and Greenville threads) that Macrovision is working on a contract with South Carolina ETV to carry digital TVGOS, like they did for analog TVGOS. So I'm waiting to see how that turns out before I worry too much about WLTX.

My Guide has no data this morning. I have the DHG-HDD250 on a broadcast antenna. I am not sure what the analog TVGOS station was but it seems to be gone now. Now that I know how to look up the "host channel" I see that it is blank today. I really hope Sony releases an update.

Anyone else in WPB, FL on broadcast? Did your guide stop working today?

My Guide has no data this morning. I have the DHG-HDD250 on a broadcast antenna. I am not sure what the analog TVGOS station was but it seems to be gone now. Now that I know how to look up the "host channel" I see that it is blank today. I really hope Sony releases an update.

Anyone else in WPB, FL on broadcast? Did your guide stop working today?

If your analog source is gone then the Sony should find the local digital source in a few days (if there is one). Per rabbitears.com, channel 12 (WPEC) is shown to be transmitting digital TVGOS. If you want to check it out, tune to that channel and do the G* test to see if you are getting VBI data.

Some news to add to our saga.

Friday afternoon the TVGUIDE indicator came on on my LST-3410a and stayed on.

Saturday morning I lost ads and day 8 listings from my HDD250. Packet count was 60/minute from 9012 diags.

Change on Sunday - light on, low packet count and my channel 2 displays as WVIAD but still shows the correct WYOU (CBS). No ads and no listings update.

On or about 9am (EDT) today my LST light went out. I checked the HDD250 and it's getting over 200 packets/minute. WVIAD still there however.

Fun, Fast and Furious.

My Guide has no data this morning. I have the DHG-HDD250 on a broadcast antenna. ... Anyone else in WPB, FL on broadcast? Did your guide stop working today?

And now it is back?? No power cycle, no reset or anything. I just turned it on again (at least the 5th time this morning) and it found two choices, Ft. Lauderdale and WPB. After choosing WPB and waiting for a long pause, I have the grid with no listings. I expect the listings will start populating tonight.

Host Channel, 0:0-42

So I am still receiving TVGOS from an analog signal for now.

I suggested that you don't do the force host procedure, and see what happens (only the G* Test).

Mark

Mark,

Digital only, OTA only, clock (ok), TVGOS version updates (ok)...just no channel lineup. Question: After performing the G* test should I do the channel up/dn before shutting off, or do you think that matters?

I have found that the channel up/dn clears out the "ffffffd" that shows up in the VBI current channel to what the actual tuned channel is. I think this prevents the Host Channel from showing "ffffffd" when it is finally acquired. But if you think the channel up/dn procedure will mess up the G* test just performed and the download... Let me know what you think.

Thanks for all of your posts, they're very helpful.

I sent email to sony support asking if the DHG-HDD250 could receive digital TVGOS data. They responed that if the TV had a dtv it would work otherwise it would not work. I replied back that the DHG-HDD250 was not a TV but it had a DTV and they responded that it would not work with digital tvgos data. No mention of a possible fix. I don't beleive they know the correct answer to my guestion.
But I check this morning and I now have guide info for today. Though a couple of stations have no listing. I then ran the G test and the vbi test failed.

RAC

I asked Sony support about the firmware upgrade which drbug had received and this was their response:
Michael,

Thank you for contacting Sony Support.

We're really sorry, but at present, there is no firmware update available for the DHG-HDD500 and DHG-HDD250 HD Digital Video Recorders. Sony does not address any comments published on, or quoted from a non-Sony website.

Thank you for your time.

The Sony Email Response Team
C6EH
William
So what gives? Is drbug just jerking our chain. Why not install the new firmware and report back. He told them he had no analog host anymore and that he needed a fix. That they supposedly sent him an upgrade. If he does not need/want it then he should pass it along to someone who will do the right thing.
Michael

Cablevision resumed sending TVGOS data to all of their systems and I am OK everywhere as far as time and grids are concerned. I have a concern about one box freezing up but hope it is temporary because of specific reasons.

My 2 weeks with a brick - and the consequences- has caused me to attempt to get some insurance. There was some talk a while back, I don't remember how it was resolved, if anyone tested it, but last night I videotaped six hours of the Host channel. I believe that includes the 70, 81 and 27 designated downloads.

I'm hoping if data is permanently lost from Cablevision-and I am at a brick state again- that playback may at least get me back to a state - updated to .44, etc- where I can experiment with different possibilities.

This weekend at my girlfriends house, I tried to edit out and rearrange the channels on both her DVRs. The changes would not stick. She is hooked up to an antenna for getting her host station, but uses cable cards in both units for all of her veiwing and recording. So not sure why when I turn off and move the channels around that it reverts back.
Michael

I don't know if there are enough owners and a dollar value that would get anyone interested, but when these DVR's were sold just a few years ago, the transition to digital was very foreseeable -even certain- and Sony may be made liable for selling an expensive product - and added on warranties- that they should have known had a termination date for its usefulness- even as they didn't warn the buyer.

Just got off the phone with Sony. A fix will be released this Friday.:)

Just got off the phone with Sony. A fix will be released this Friday.:)

Kind of reminds me of the old weathered verbage painted on the side of Joe's Crab Shack (seafood restaurant), "Free Crabs Tomorrow" ...................

Just got off the phone with Sony. A fix will be released this Friday.:)

Odd how only new members with hardly any posts get a positive Sony response.

Odd how only new members with hardly any posts get a positive Sony response.

You have to wonder what is going on with those posts. Are some people just "baiting" us or what? It sure would be nice if those people would give more details (like names and contact numbers of the people that they talked to).

Idiots abound....It's the internet. "Baiting" people has become very popular online.

After several frustrating attempts to get THREE Comcast CSR's to understand my TVGOS dilemma, I went on their webpage to the "Contact Us" section and emailed Rick Germano. (I believe he is Comcast's VP of Consumer relations.)

Believe it or not, I got a return phone call from the tech in charge of the TVGOS at my local (West Palm Beach, FL) Comcast plant the next business day!! :D

It took me several days for me to find time to return his call. In the interim I received daily phone calls and an additional email stating they had been trying to reach me for several days!!

Definitely worth a try!!!

http://www.comcast.com/customers/feedback/default.cspx

Let us know if it worked??

Robin
Hi Robin,
I did Email that "ask Rick" at Comcast after a week of the no service out of the techs and supposed supervisors.
Never a response from him or anyone else. I will though, get it another try.
Thanks,
Michael

Care to post the exact written language that you believe to be binding on you here?

And out of curiosity, how did you come to read every word of a boilerplate legal insertion- that comes with any software- and which most people ignore.

.........................................

Maybe someone will correct me, but I don't remember that SONY ever placed the .13 firmware on their site. Someone who got it, freely made it available to anyone who was interested and effected- with absolutely no consequences.

Didn't you hear that he is serving time in Alcatraz and is the A/V expert in charge of entertainment.

That's the one I've been sort of using for the last couple of weeks, since WUNF in Asheville shut down analog TVGOS. I have two Sonys. I did a TVGOS reset on one of them, and like you, I'm getting only ads and the clock from WLTX on that unit, no channel linup or program listings. The other unit still has the channel lineup that it downloaded from WUNF, and it's getting program listings from WLTX. On both units, the "host channel" field in the 753159852 diagnostic screens is blank.

There have been a couple of reports (in the local Columbia and Greenville threads) that Macrovision is working on a contract with South Carolina ETV to carry digital TVGOS, like they did for analog TVGOS. So I'm waiting to see how that turns out before I worry too much about WLTX.

Sincere thanks for the info. :) It does make me feel better that others are seeing identical results using the same broadcast stations...

Interesting tidbit about Macrovision, too.

Have to agree that it is very suspect that only new members seem to get anywhere with Sony support. Perhaps we need to vet these guys(girls)? first.
Michael

I asked Sony support about the firmware upgrade which drbug had received and this was their response:
Michael,

Thank you for contacting Sony Support.

We're really sorry, but at present, there is no firmware update available for the DHG-HDD500 and DHG-HDD250 HD Digital Video Recorders. Sony does not address any comments published on, or quoted from a non-Sony website.

Thank you for your time.

The Sony Email Response Team
C6EH
William
So what gives? Is drbug just jerking our chain. Why not install the new firmware and report back. He told them he had no analog host anymore and that he needed a fix. That they supposedly sent him an upgrade. If he does not need/want it then he should pass it along to someone who will do the right thing.
Michael
Interesting that drbug hasn't been around since his last post.........

Mark,

Digital only, OTA only, clock (ok), TVGOS version updates (ok)...just no channel lineup. Question: After performing the G* test should I do the channel up/dn before shutting off, or do you think that matters?

I have found that the channel up/dn clears out the "ffffffd" that shows up in the VBI current channel to what the actual tuned channel is. I think this prevents the Host Channel from showing "ffffffd" when it is finally acquired. But if you think the channel up/dn procedure will mess up the G* test just performed and the download... Let me know what you think.

Thanks for all of your posts, they're very helpful.

Thanks, for the vote of confidence. Unfortunately my posts can only be helpful if they actually fix something for someone. I can post different procedures to try all day long, but if none of those procedures make it work, then they are useless. Lately, it doesn't seem to matter what procedures are used, people either wind up stuck waiting on a channel lineup or their channel lineup comes in just fine.

I think it is harmless to do the channel up/down, but my belief is that once the G* Test starts the DHG processing digital data, its use is finished, and doesn't need to be run again until a reset occurs. Some people think that the G* Test has an effect after the test screen goes away, and they may be right, but I have seen no evidence of this.

Once my system is processing digital data (and I have a channel lineup), I can get guide data one of two ways. I can get data by turning off the DVR, or I can tune to my host channel and leave it on. Neither one of these requires running the G* Test.

Mark

Interesting that drbug hasn't been around since his last post.........

I had been thinking the same thing.... But I betcha he has been back to check, but without signing in. I can't imagine anyone (legit or otherwise) making the statements that he did, and then not coming back to check out the size of the flames. :eek::rolleyes::D

drbug and fxstsb are probably the same troll.

chat id : 9763d692-7a4f-42de-acd2-8bf8d0135d35
Problem : I understand that a firmware update will be made available for this device on Friday, April 17th. Is this correct?

Dane_ > Hi Dave. Welcome to Sony Online Support. I'm Dane. Please allow me a moment to review your concern.
Dane_ > Thank you for waiting, Dave. I'll be glad to assist you in providing the information about the firmware update.

Dave > Will the update to allow reliable digital TVGOS compatibility be available on Friday?

Dane_ > Please stay online while I check this information for you.
Dane_ > Thanks for waiting, Dave.
Dane_ > Dave, we do not have any updates available for the TVGOS compatibility at this point.
Dane_ > When ever it is available, it will be posted in our support page.
Dane_ > I suggest that you visit our support page on a later point to check the information.

Dave > Ok, thank you. Bye

Dane_ > You're welcome.
Dane_ > It was a pleasure assisting you today.
Dane_ > Good-bye and thank you for contacting Sony Online Support.
Dane_ > Analyst has closed chat and left the room

Odd how only new members with hardly any posts get a positive Sony response.

Great Observation http://www.rx8web.com/smilies/bouncy.gif

chat id : 9763d692-7a4f-42de-acd2-8bf8d0135d35
Problem : I understand that a firmware update will be made available for this device on Friday, April 17th. Is this correct?

Dane_ > Hi Dave. Welcome to Sony Online Support. I'm Dane. Please allow me a moment to review your concern.
Dane_ > Thank you for waiting, Dave. I'll be glad to assist you in providing the information about the firmware update.

Dave > Will the update to allow reliable digital TVGOS compatibility be available on Friday?

Dane_ > Please stay online while I check this information for you.
Dane_ > Thanks for waiting, Dave.
Dane_ > Dave, we do not have any updates available for the TVGOS compatibility at this point.
Dane_ > When ever it is available, it will be posted in our support page.
Dane_ > I suggest that you visit our support page on a later point to check the information.

Dave > Ok, thank you. Bye

Dane_ > You're welcome.
Dane_ > It was a pleasure assisting you today.
Dane_ > Good-bye and thank you for contacting Sony Online Support.
Dane_ > Analyst has closed chat and left the room

Picture Kenneth handling the call..

That's the one I've been sort of using for the last couple of weeks, since WUNF in Asheville shut down analog TVGOS. I have two Sonys. I did a TVGOS reset on one of them, and like you, I'm getting only ads and the clock from WLTX on that unit, no channel linup or program listings.This unit's TVGOS firmware version is probably up-to-date. If you have not tried changing your zip code, that's what you need to do.

No 606xx Chicago zip codes that I know of work. This happened back in November, and then things had settled down for a while. I am using suburban zips on 2 of my 3 units right now, and those two are fine. I keep my third set to the correct zip code just to keep tabs on their progress.

The downside is that you will likely need to remap/reorder your guide, esp. if you have cable.

Just got off the phone with Sony in San Diego. The fimware will be posted at 9am EST this Friday, April 17 on esupport.sony.com for both the dhg-hdd250 and the dhg-hdd 500. There was a beta version that was in development, but the final version that fixes the TVGOS issue will be available this Friday. :) They had heard that someone in a forum somewhere that someone got the file early...

chat id : 9763d692-7a4f-42de-acd2-8bf8d0135d35
Problem : I understand that a firmware update will be made available for this device on Friday, April 17th. Is this correct?

Dane_ > Hi Dave. Welcome to Sony Online Support. I'm Dane. Please allow me a moment to review your concern.
Dane_ > Thank you for waiting, Dave. I'll be glad to assist you in providing the information about the firmware update.

Dave > Will the update to allow reliable digital TVGOS compatibility be available on Friday?

Dane_ > Please stay online while I check this information for you.
Dane_ > Thanks for waiting, Dave.
Dane_ > Dave, we do not have any updates available for the TVGOS compatibility at this point.
Dane_ > When ever it is available, it will be posted in our support page.
Dane_ > I suggest that you visit our support page on a later point to check the information.

Dave > Ok, thank you. Bye

Dane_ > You're welcome.
Dane_ > It was a pleasure assisting you today.
Dane_ > Good-bye and thank you for contacting Sony Online Support.
Dane_ > Analyst has closed chat and left the room

Just got off the phone with Sony in San Diego. The fimware will be posted at 9am EST this Friday, April 17 on esupport.sony.com for both the dhg-hdd250 and the dhg-hdd 500. There was a beta version that was in development, but the final version that fixes the TVGOS issue will be available this Friday. :) They had heard that someone in a forum somewhere that someone got the file early...
Interesting, one person says no there is no firmware update, while another says that its coming. Who are we to believe? :confused:

Just got off the phone with Sony in San Diego. The fimware will be posted at 9am EST this Friday, April 17 on esupport.sony.com for both the dhg-hdd250 and the dhg-hdd 500. There was a beta version that was in development, but the final version that fixes the TVGOS issue will be available this Friday. :) They had heard that someone in a forum somewhere that someone got the file early...

Obviously that would be GOOD NEWS - if it happens.

But Sony's Track record with this unit even when it was in production
was never to POST the FW on their website. I'm NOT SAYING that is
a GOOD thing only their history :mad:

http://home.att.net/~pix/AVS/8-ball.jpg


http://web.ics.purdue.edu/~ssanty/cgi-bin/eightball.cgi

http://home.att.net/~pix/AVS/8-ball.jpg


http://web.ics.purdue.edu/~ssanty/cgi-bin/eightball.cgi


Funny, I asked: Will new DHG-HDD250 firmware be available this Friday

And got an answer of: Definitely

Sorry dhg500 owners. ;)

Hello all,
I also called Sony support today and was told that the new software is being released within one week. I offered myself to test since no analog is here in SW. Florida. We will see. Will let this forum know how it works when and IF it works..........ss-stingray

Just got off the phone with Sony in San Diego. The fimware will be posted at 9am EST this Friday, April 17 on esupport.sony.com for both the dhg-hdd250 and the dhg-hdd 500. There was a beta version that was in development, but the final version that fixes the TVGOS issue will be available this Friday. :) They had heard that someone in a forum somewhere that someone got the file early...

I tend to believe the rep from Sony who called me at work on my cell phone this afternoon. This was after a round robin of calls that started by calling my contact at Sony here in the Pittsburgh area. They used to handle the DHG units, but that task has been transitioned to Laredo, Texas.:mad: Thanks to Bill, Ted, and Rebecca. Rebecca gave me a number in Laredo - the tech asked me to send it in. I said no thank you. He gave me the general Sony CSC number...eventually, I got through to an agent in San Diego at 9:30am, 6:30 PST. Told me the FW had completed beta testing, was release ready, but had to talk to his sup - would call me later to advise around noon my time. He did call, as promised. So, let's wait and see. Thanks to the cats at Sony for the follow through. You know they read this thread....:cool:

I just got off the phone with Admiral Copps with the FCC, and he has authorized new coupons at a cost of only 27 billion, be sent immediately to all in America for the New FCC Digital HD DVR. Even those without television automatically qualify. This new all inclusive DVR is a true first – it only receives one channel – the FCC Channel. This should make tuning much faster and easier for all. Admrial Copps declared: "This is a clear win for all!"

Odd how only new members with hardly any posts get a positive Sony response.

Please feel free to look up the username on D* and E*. Maybe you should spend some time on the phone and use the information you received here to get to someone that knows. Sure they could be blowing smoke. But I spoke the truth.

See below

Just got off the phone with Sony in San Diego. The fimware will be posted at 9am EST this Friday, April 17 on esupport.sony.com for both the dhg-hdd250 and the dhg-hdd 500. There was a beta version that was in development, but the final version that fixes the TVGOS issue will be available this Friday. :) They had heard that someone in a forum somewhere that someone got the file early...

Geez, wonder who that was?

Funny, I asked: Will new DHG-HDD250 firmware be available this Friday

And got an answer of: Definitely

Sorry dhg500 owners. ;)

CUTE - trying to rock the boat :D

The FW works on BOTH UNITS - there is NO DIFFERENCE.

Watch This Space................
http://esupport.sony.com/US/perl/swu-list.pl?mdl=DHGHDD500

Watch This Space................
http://esupport.sony.com/US/perl/swu-list.pl?mdl=DHGHDD500

I have it BOOK MARKED from Last Week and my Popup
Computer Calendar reminds me to check.

If ANYTHING shows up there it will absolutely be a 1st for Sony.

2 500's - OTA only
FWIW in the Chicago area, both machines are using digital host and clock set now.
They where using 0-2 as clock set, no G*test just turned them off after tuning to 2-1.
I know, it shouldn't make any difference, I'm just saying....
I thought Good Friday was last week?

This weekend at my girlfriends house, I tried to edit out and rearrange the channels on both her DVRs. The changes would not stick. She is hooked up to an antenna for getting her host station, but uses cable cards in both units for all of her veiwing and recording. So not sure why when I turn off and move the channels around that it reverts back.
Michael

A soft reset should cure the problem.

I hope everyone with one of these units has gone to the sony "support" ahem page and asked point blank if the units will work post transition. It does say in big bold letters "HDTV" on the face of my unit.....

I just got off the phone with Admiral Copps with the FCC, and he has authorized new coupons at a cost of only 27 billion, be sent immediately to all in America for the New FCC Digital HD DVR. Even those without television automatically qualify. This new all inclusive DVR is a true first – it only receives one channel – the FCC Channel. This should make tuning much faster and easier for all. Admrial Copps declared: "This is a clear win for all!"

Months of DHG problems, testing, and channel rearranging have obviously pushed you over the edge. Surprised it hasn't happened to more of us.

I, for one, could use a session or two with the DVR psychiatrist. :eek:

I decided to throw Sony a softball to see if they could get the bat off their shoulder.

Online chat transcript:

Problem: Can't find firmware upgrade software on support page.

(( Analyst Hayden_ is here to assist you. ))
Hayden_> Hi. Welcome to Sony Online Support. I'm Hayden. Please allow me a brief moment to review your concern.
Hayden_> Thanks for waiting. I'm sorry for the inconvenience you are experiencing in finding the firmware upgrade software. I'll be glad to assist you in resolving this.
Hayden_> May I know the exact model # of the unit you are using?
subako> Ok.
subako> DHG-HDD250
Hayden_> I am sorry. The firmware upgrade software for the DHGHDD250 is not available currently.
subako> Can you tell me why not? I just had another of my DHGs repaired and part of the service was to upgrade the firmware to version 1.2.13. I would like to upgrade my other two DHGs with version 1.2.13 firmware.
Hayden_> There is no firmware upgrade software for the DHGHDD250 Video Recorder.
subako> Was my invoice incorrect? Invoice #WC4T7804 3/31/09
Hayden_> Could you please rephrase the above statement.
subako> My invoice indicated that a firmware upgrade was installed on the DHG unit that I sent in for repair.
subako> You say there is no firmware upgrade. How can this be?
Hayden_> I am sorry. The firmware upgrade is not available online. However, the Service Techinicain (sic) will be able to upgrade the firmware update.
subako> Will this update be available on line at some time in the future?
Hayden_> Yes, if the software update is released then it will be posted in the esupport website.
subako> I understand that this update has been being applied to users machines sent in for repair for about two years now. What is involved in "releasing" this update that should take that long?
Hayden_> We do not have any information on this. I suggest that you contact our Hotline Team at 1-800-222-7669.
subako> Any specialist I should ask for?
Hayden_> You can contact them on of our Telephone Support Team.
subako> Thank you, Hayden. Have a nice day.
Hayden_> Please contact tem and I'm sure they'll be more than glad to assist you with this further.
Hayden_> You're welcome.
Hayden_> Good-bye and thank you for contacting Sony Online Support.
Hayden_> Analyst has closed chat and left the room.


About the only part of this that passes a Turing test is Hayden's ability to misspell Technician.

I called the 1-800, went through the "I have no information" first level support person, still just asking about version 1.2.13 firmware.

The second person I talked to, Rich, told me he was going to transfer me to a person who worked in the group that was working on the "new" firmware.

That would be Glen, who quickly revealed that he had no idea that there was a version 1.2.13 but without prompting kept sneaking up on telling me that a) there was new firmware coming and b) I should look on the esupport website on Friday.

So clearly something is afoot, and clearly it depends a great deal on who one talks to, how much of what little infromation there is, will be given out.

I wonder if this up coming update will help me. I am purely OTA and do not have an analog PBS station (shut off last week). None of my digital stations get any VBI data.

My opinion is the my Sony DHG is useless without any VBI data on the digital channels. I live in Tucson, AZ.

My biggest hope is that if this alleged new firmware is in fact actually released, that it provides a manual clock setting feature. I hate that all my recordings say "unknown", but at least it works. The fact that there is no clock set is archaic, I mean the device is completely useless without it. Oh well, I will hope for the best.....

My opinion is the my Sony DHG is useless without any VBI data on the digital channels. I live in Tucson, AZ.

Correct. You need a TVGOS host channel to get your listings. Here is a link to Digital TVGOS Service List. Doesn't look good for the Tuscon area OTA.

http://www.rabbitears.info/market.php?request=tvgos

CUTE - trying to rock the boat :D

The FW works on BOTH UNITS - there is NO DIFFERENCE.

Not trying to rock any boats. Just showing that depending on what 8-ball, sony rep, you talk to you could get different answers. Of course the same firmware works for both. Sounds like we can all anxiously await the end of the week for more than just the weekend now.

I don't know if there are enough owners and a dollar value that would get anyone interested, but when these DVR's were sold just a few years ago, the transition to digital was very foreseeable -even certain- and Sony may be made liable for selling an expensive product - and added on warranties- that they should have known had a termination date for its usefulness- even as they didn't warn the buyer.

Amen,This was precisely my point when I spoke to one of their reps. The fact that the DTV transition was delayed should have bought Sony enough time to come up with a fix. I will wait for Friday to see if they do have a firmware update on their site, if they don't I will be sending a nasty letter to the CEO of Sony Electronics and I will boycott all Sony products and I encourage everybody in this forum to do the same.

I wonder if this up coming update will help me. I am purely OTA and do not have an analog PBS station (shut off last week). None of my digital stations get any VBI data.

My opinion is the my Sony DHG is useless without any VBI data on the digital channels. I live in Tucson, AZ.

In my area there is VBI on Digital. I had to search to find it. I still don't have a guide. I have it on the VBI channel. And...... the VBI changed from 7.1 to 7.2 overnight.

Amen,This was precisely my point when I spoke to one of their reps. The fact that the DTV transition was delayed should have bought Sony enough time to come up with a fix. I will wait for Friday to see if they do have a firmware update on their site, if they don't I will be sending a nasty letter to the CEO of Sony Electronics and I will boycott all Sony products and I encourage everybody in this forum to do the same.

I'm hoping to get something in the mail by Thursday, maybe Wednesday. I would not be unhappy if I had to download it though.

I wonder if this up coming update will help me. I am purely OTA and do not have an analog PBS station (shut off last week). None of my digital stations get any VBI data.

My opinion is the my Sony DHG is useless without any VBI data on the digital channels. I live in Tucson, AZ.
Are you certain that the local PBS station will be broadcasting TVGOS info? Have you tried contacting them?

I wonder if this up coming update will help me. I am purely OTA and do not have an analog PBS station (shut off last week). None of my digital stations get any VBI data.

My opinion is the my Sony DHG is useless without any VBI data on the digital channels. I live in Tucson, AZ.I don't have an opinion about the DHG since I don't own any (but my TVGOS is close...). If it doesn't pan out, you can join me in my tvgos-transition-to-dtv-misery-pub (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=16252791), or better yet, it all pans out and the prophets were dead-on, so you can celebrate the fact you made a great investment in the Sony DHG...

POSITIVE THOUGHT FOR THE DAY - It's a DVR, not a life/death decision

In my area there is VBI on Digital. I had to search to find it. I still don't have a guide. I have it on the VBI channel. And...... the VBI changed from 7.1 to 7.2 overnight.Unfortunately, your VBI channel has nothing to do with it. It just happens to be the last channel your TVGOS device's system tuned your device to while looking for TVGOS data at the bequest of the built-in TVGOS...

I've found that on certain devices (like my digital TVGOS device), TVGOS will do a channel scan, and tune to channels that you've disabled in your device's channel memory. I had only OTA digital channels enabled on my device, yet every time I turn it on it's on channel 69, which is the max OTA channel for OTA and my device didn't have that channel in it's channel map after I told it to scan channels and disabled ALL analog and those digital channels I wan't interested in. Besides, there's nothing here on channel 69, so it's a clue since it's at the end of the channels and tells me something is taking control of my device and making it scan through all the channels and it got stuck at the end - 69.

I'm hoping to get something in the mail by Thursday, maybe Wednesday. I would not be unhappy if I had to download it though.

Did Sony indicate that they would mail it to you? If you do actually receive it will you email it to DrHankz to host on his website?

Did Sony indicate that they would mail it to you? If you do actually receive it will you email it to DrHankz to host on his website?

Honestly - this is the same FAKE person as DrBug

I liked the DrBug name - he came here to BUG US :mad:

A soft reset should cure the problem.
Tried resets and such, no luck. Funny that both units are doing the same thing after having connected an antenna to get a host station because Comcast is no longer passing one. Sony support emailed me and told me that I need to call and speak directly with them on this, so that's my next step.
Michael

Comcast is no longer passing one.
Michael

From others it is clear that Comcast is passing it in other systems. If you can't get to Comcast, try getting to Macrovision to investigate why it's not available at your location [put pressure] on Comcast.

Also see if there are any on-line boards where Comcast representatives appear [I know that there is such a board on Yahoo for Cablevision]. Make it an issue there too.

I tried contacting both my PBS and CBS stations. PBS said they have no plans to broadcast TVGOS and CBS did not reply. I then called CBS and they had no idea what I was talking about. Interesting thing happened this morning, my clock is now correct but still no listings. Good news it looks like the Sony DHG sells pretty good on ebay, so that is always an option.

I hope everyone with one of these units has gone to the sony "support" ahem page and asked point blank if the units will work post transition. It does say in big bold letters "HDTV" on the face of my unit.....

Good point. I just started first with Google and found this forum and joined yesterday.

At about 9:15 AM EDT, I used the Sony support page to send an e-mail questions. And I recieved a response at 11:26 AM EDT. Below is the full response with the original questions (personal infromation removed). I am new to the forum and I got a decent response from Sony. (Strange that Sony called it a DVD Recorder but that is really what the e-mail said.) (I had to remove the URLs because I do not yet have enough posts to post URLs.)



XXXXXXXXXX,

Thank you for contacting Sony Support.

I'm glad to provide the information on the TV Guide for your Sony DVD Recorder. As the TV Guide On Screen feature uses analog signals to acquire program information, it will no longer be available when using an antenna for over-the-air reception after the Digital Television (DTV) transition. For complete information about the DTV transition, visit (URL Removed).

A software update to alleviate this issue is currently being developed. Once the update is released, details will be made available on the News, Alerts section of the Sony Support Web Site at:

(URL Removed)

Thank you for choosing Sony.

The Sony Email Response Team
CHQZ
Austin


This message and any attachments are solely for the use of intended recipients and may contain confidential information. If you are not the intended recipient, you are hereby notified that you received this email in error, and that any review, dissemination, distribution or copying of this email and any attachment is strictly prohibited. If you receive this email in error please contact the sender and delete the message and any attachments associated therewith from your computer. Your cooperation in this matter is appreciated.

Original Message Follows:
------------------------
Email Address: XXXXXXXXXX
Privacy Flag : No
Name : XXXXXXXXXX
Street : XXXXXXXXXX
Zip : 33413
Phone : XXXXXXXXXX
Product Group: Sony
O/S : - Please select -
Model : DHG-HDD250
Question : Will this unit continue to work after the digital trasition? Will the TV Guide continue to work when no analog signal is available? With the TV Guide work with only a digital signal?

I live in Chicago and have three DHG-HDD 500's with 1.2.13 firmware connected via OTA only. I performed the following tests on all three units:

I did the G* test on channel 2.1 (CBS), and then the VBI test on channel 2.1 and turned the unit off overnight leaving it overnight.

Two of the units picked up and display 0:3-0 as the host channel, which is the actual digital channel number of CBS. One does not display any host channel, but the listings are still coming.

I performed the procedure on the "faulty" unit again just to make sure I did not do something wrong, and the results were the same.

There were two differences in the operation of the tests on the "faulty" unit that will not pick up the digital host:

First, the unit took around 18 seconds for the VBI data to start incrementing when performing the G* test. The other two units starting incrementing in less than 10 seconds.

Second, the unit was turned on the next morning and used during the day. The other two units were left off for almost 24 hours. I'm not sure if this matters or not.

Anyway, I just thought I would post this experience in case it helps anyone. If there is any information you need me to compare between my units, let me know.

Thanks.

Mark

2 500's - OTA only
FWIW in the Chicago area, both machines are using digital host and clock set now.
They where using 0-2 as clock set, no G*test just turned them off after tuning to 2-1.
I know, it shouldn't make any difference, I'm just saying....
I thought Good Friday was last week?

I lost the host channel (the field is blank) on my other two DVR's sometime between Sunday morning and Monday evening.

I still have seven days of listings, but the one that never listed the host channel now has some blank spots on day 7.

Mark

Hi dmaster. Thanks for your suggestion.

I actually have a roof antenna in place and tried scanning for stations on the DVR. I could only receive a few local channel - none of the major ones. Our home backs up to 25' tall powerlines which does not help the matter either. I can only go as tall as the house since I'm in a townhouse development and within the utility company's right of way.

My understanding of digital OTA is that one needs a supplemental UHF type antenna to get a good digital OTA signal. We are 50 miles or more (line sight) from the NYC metro area where most of the OTA broadcasting is done and the terrain is mountainous.

I'm going to wait and see what happens after the firmware update that I am waiting on from Sony. As I mentioned in my first post a few pages (503) back, there are more options available now to watch a missed program then there were when we bought our DVR in 2005. As much as I'd miss the use of the DHG unit, the loss is less significant than it would have been since I have broadband internet access available.

dr bug

Ack! You really ought to check your address at www.tvfool.com . Almost all your stations are UHF and almost all will still be UHF after the analog shutoff. If your antenna doesn't have good UHF reception, you won't get much. In fact, you'd be better off with something like one of the "8 bowtie" long range UHF antennas than a VHF-only antenna. Well, you know what you need to do now, so good luck with whatever best meets your needs.

Dan (Woj...)

Did Sony indicate that they would mail it to you? If you do actually receive it will you email it to DrHankz to host on his website?

Yes, possibly mailed yesterday. As far as email, I will have to read the EULA first.
If they do as the man said, it should be out Friday. Does that mean it will be on their website? I cannot answer that. I will say there are some expletives deleted here that I would be glad to send a picture to, but that is about it. I, like you will know by Friday.

Did Sony indicate that they would mail it to you? If you do actually receive it will you email it to DrHankz to host on his website?

After reading the next post, NO.

Honestly - this is the same FAKE person as DrBug

I liked the DrBug name - he came here to BUG US :mad:

And this is that "next post"

I share the frustration of many of you. I can certainly see why some get nowhere with Sony.

giomania,
I purposely turned off 1 DVR set to 5-1, while the other was off set to 2-1.
The 2-1 machine maintained a host of 3-0 and clock set of 2-1 while the other
clock set went back to 0-2 but the host stayed at 3-0.
I know it's not supposed to make a difference when turned off but in the digital world who knows?
As long as they where set to 2-1 when turned off they stayed at 3-0 as host and 2-1 as clock set..

Hi folks,

Late last week I noticed no listings for day 8, then next day none for 7,8, and so forth. By Friday I was down to just 4 days of listings. This has happened to me periodically for the last year, and is usually cured on my end by a front panel reset (exit-guide) if I'm getting activity showing up on the VBI test. I've got good VBI data on analog and digital here.

So, I did the exit-guide reset, and found that afterward, it had reset ALL THE WAY, dumping the grid and all available listings. This is the second time it's done this in the last month. Never once before that. Two days later (Sunday) it asked me to confirm my cable system (I'm OTA + cable card), and gradually refilled over a couple days.

So... why is it doing this? Why is it so "touchy" and prone to these deep resets all of a sudden. I've done the exit-guide thing at least 20 times in the last year, and before recent weeks, it always came back up with clock, grid, and at least any prior listings within minutes or at worst an hour after reset (presuming no problem at the broadcaster, of course!). Never dumped the TVGOS software and made me reselect the cable system before.

Any thoughts on this?

Marc

Today at 9am I took my HDD250 that had been powered off since 4/1/09 and turned it on. After running for a minute it regained the time. The lineup was there, but no listings. I then went into 9012, TVGUIDE and then reset. That cleared the lineup. I entered TVGUIDE setup and had a blank zipcode. The software had gone back to 8.01.42 and the clock was --:--, but I did not do a 9012 Restore Factory Defaults, so my Sony kept its .13 firmware.

Then I pulled the cable and turned the DVR off. I recorded six hours onto a VCR tape of my VBI channel. It was getting about 200 packets per minute. I filled the tape at SVHS-ET, capturing just over six hours.

At 4pm I rewound the tape and connected its video (channel 3) output to the HDD250 antenna input. I did a scan of antenna channels (it found 6 of them?) but I went to channel 3, ran setup to enter my zipcode and turned the HDD250 off. I played the tape and still have the real cable source disconnected.

By 6pm I tested the version, and I had updated to 8.05.40 with the clock showing my tape's recording time. I had recorded a channel that shows the time. I ran 9012 and still had packets coming in. Powered off the HDD250 again.

At 8pm I checked again and the HDD250 was at 8.06.44 but still no lineup. The lack of a lineup doesn't bother me. I'm recording another tape tonight at 11:55pm and I'll check what happens tomorrow when I feed the HDD250. I am obviously saving the first tape. The HDD250 will be powered off until I start feeding it the new tape.

Tomorrow I'm going to try to duplicate this restoration process with a DVD-RAM if my packets are still running strong, then with a DVD-R. They probably will be good until Friday if my experience from the last two months is any indicator. Since the purpose of this test was to get the TVGOS up to .44 for digital downloads, I consider this operation a success and I will sleep better tonight. And, unlike drbug, I will make the tape/DVD available for only postage cost. Ironically, my taxes paid for the content on the tape too, since it's C-SPAN.

Hi folks,

Late last week I noticed no listings for day 8, then next day none for 7,8, and so forth. By Friday I was down to just 4 days of listings. This has happened to me periodically for the last year, and is usually cured on my end by a front panel reset (exit-guide) if I'm getting activity showing up on the VBI test. I've got good VBI data on analog and digital here.

So, I did the exit-guide reset, and found that afterward, it had reset ALL THE WAY, dumping the grid and all available listings. This is the second time it's done this in the last month. Never once before that. Two days later (Sunday) it asked me to confirm my cable system (I'm OTA + cable card), and gradually refilled over a couple days.

So... why is it doing this? Why is it so "touchy" and prone to these deep resets all of a sudden. I've done the exit-guide thing at least 20 times in the last year, and before recent weeks, it always came back up with clock, grid, and at least any prior listings within minutes or at worst an hour after reset (presuming no problem at the broadcaster, of course!). Never dumped the TVGOS software and made me reselect the cable system before.

Any thoughts on this?

Marc


I have posted on this before; but this thread is so long etc.

There are various types of "resets" and many resets are executed via the information received from TV Guide. I posted some pictures and error tracking logs on this as well.

Short story is: The box can get itself "out of wack" when combining the "front panel resets" with resets from TV Guide; therefore it will do the best it can to recover, IF it can. In many cases it cannot recover on its own.

If "normal operation" (fully populted grid and no "lock ups") resumes on the box in a couple of days - great. If not, AND you still have analogue source - then only a Full Factory Reset will cure it.

The "touchy" part is the software conflicts, that will only be corrected with Full Factory Reset.

If you have only digital source it will be much more complex, and really the Sony Fix will be required.

Since you have both analogue and digital source and if you have analogue for a couple more weeks, if the box does not get normal in a couple of days, then you should consider the full factory reset and let the box stay with analogue (no force host etc); until you get the Sony Fix-new firmware.

If "normal operation" (fully populated grid and no "lock ups") resumes on the box in a couple of days - great. If not, AND you still have analogue source - then only a Full Factory Reset will cure it.

The "touchy" part is the software conflicts, that will only be corrected with Full Factory Reset.The ton of stuff I have on the hard drive makes this problematic right now.

I must ask the dumb question...

I have "Reset User Configuration" many times on all my units, and it has always fixed different glitches and crashes (eventually). So, just to be clear, the "Full Factory Reset" is a deeper reboot than "Reset User Configuration?" It sounds like a stupid question even when I read it, but please be kind. I've got to be absolutely sure it's necessary before I push that button.

My status:
Since late February, after all the nonsense that started in November cleared up, the unit was happily using my correct zip code. That only lasted about a month. Two weeks back, my unit that is Air/Cable (Comcast) was rebooting itself often, listings were not filled in, the guide was screwed up, and I was fed up. I reset TV Guide back to default. Again, I used my Chicago zip. I later found out that CBS 2.1 was not sending packets at the time. Bad timing. So the firmware updated, but the unit kept rebooting, losing clock, regaining clock...but no grids or listings, no host channel, just ads (usually!).

Then CBS 2.1 got their system back up. I gave it three days. No change. Then, I switched to a suburban zip (one I've used before) and everything is fine, now. Other than needing to remap, the unit is behaving.

Eventually, I'd like to be able to restore my correct zip. So is the "Full Factory Reset" in my future?

Thanks.

I would just change zip and try again. I wouldn't even change it if the channels match what you get. Also keep track of your TVGOS software version and what channel has good VIB. Turn it off on the good VIB channel and wait at least overnight plus the next morning. My provider seems to be blocking digital VIB. I used to get it and now I don't. The OTA has it, but I can't get the OTA.

It takes forever to update though two versions of the software. If you the "Full Factory Reset", you will have to start from scratch.

...
Then CBS 2.1 got their system back up. I gave it three days. No change. Then, I switched to a suburban zip (one I've used before) and everything is fine, now. Other than needing to remap, the unit is behaving.

Eventually, I'd like to be able to restore my correct zip. So is the "Full Factory Reset" in my future?

Maybe you you wait for the Sony firmware update that may or may not be coming out shortly?!

Hey all, long story short I use both a SA8300HD and a DHG-HDD250 to record shows. I only use the HDD250 when I need to be able to record a 3rd program when the HDD250 is already recording 2 other shows. I have searched here, on Spiff, and the interwebs in general and I haven't been able to find an answer to my question. I am wondering if anyone has sucessfully been able to get a code to work on the UR5U-8400A remote so they can use it to control the HDD250?

I tried the listed DVR codes in the remote's book but haven't had any luck. I figured if anyone else has tried this it would be someone here.

I have posted on this before; but this thread is so long etc.

There are various types of "resets" and many resets are executed via the information received from TV Guide. I posted some pictures and error tracking logs on this as well.

Short story is: The box can get itself "out of wack" when combining the "front panel resets" with resets from TV Guide; therefore it will do the best it can to recover, IF it can. In many cases it cannot recover on its own.

If "normal operation" (fully populted grid and no "lock ups") resumes on the box in a couple of days - great. If not, AND you still have analogue source - then only a Full Factory Reset will cure it.

The "touchy" part is the software conflicts, that will only be corrected with Full Factory Reset.

If you have only digital source it will be much more complex, and really the Sony Fix will be required.

Since you have both analogue and digital source and if you have analogue for a couple more weeks, if the box does not get normal in a couple of days, then you should consider the full factory reset and let the box stay with analogue (no force host etc); until you get the Sony Fix-new firmware.

Thanks HP.

I'm fortunate in that the machine has come back up all the way and is operating normally; it has all 8 days of data now. I'll see how it goes over the next several days as I have many recordings scheduled.

I'll be pretty shocked if Sony actually releases any fix, but I nonetheless hope the rumors are right.

I'm seriously considering putting this baby up on eBay, as I'm looking into an HTPC for other reasons...

Marc

The ton of stuff I have on the hard drive makes this problematic right now.


Thanks.

I do believe FACTORY Reset wipes out anything stored on the HD.

The ton of stuff I have on the hard drive makes this problematic right now.

I must ask the dumb question...

I have "Reset User Configuration" many times on all my units, and it has always fixed different glitches and crashes (eventually). So, just to be clear, the "Full Factory Reset" is a deeper reboot than "Reset User Configuration?" It sounds like a stupid question even when I read it, but please be kind. I've got to be absolutely sure it's necessary before I push that button.

My status:
Since late February, after all the nonsense that started in November cleared up, the unit was happily using my correct zip code. That only lasted about a month. Two weeks back, my unit that is Air/Cable (Comcast) was rebooting itself often, listings were not filled in, the guide was screwed up, and I was fed up. I reset TV Guide back to default. Again, I used my Chicago zip. I later found out that CBS 2.1 was not sending packets at the time. Bad timing. So the firmware updated, but the unit kept rebooting, losing clock, regaining clock...but no grids or listings, no host channel, just ads (usually!).

Then CBS 2.1 got their system back up. I gave it three days. No change. Then, I switched to a suburban zip (one I've used before) and everything is fine, now. Other than needing to remap, the unit is behaving.

Eventually, I'd like to be able to restore my correct zip. So is the "Full Factory Reset" in my future?

Thanks.


Short Answer: Basically, the Sony Box is a computer. Sometimes, if soft resets (front panel or unplug), and TVGOS resets, and User Resets do not set things back to normal, then the Full Factory Reset (this includes reformat the hard drive as a part of the routine-recorded shows will be erased) would basically have the box reconfigure itself from scratch. This means reloading the built-it software/firmware to the "cleaned" hard drive, starting at ground zero. This of course wipes out the errors from too many user resets combined with TVGOS resets that have caused so many problems for some.

This will only make you and the machine happy IF you still have solid reliable analogue source for TV Guide in your area. I strongly recommend NOT doing G Test or Force Host after you have begun this process for at least a week. Let the box get its full 8 days listings back before you start interfering with it again.

The constant reboots you are getting is because of the internal software conflicts (lock ups are another example, there are dozens more). Sometimes the unit’s self "reboots" are the result of TVGOS downloads attempting to fix the problems IF it can. In fact with all the changes at this point in time, you may experience two strings of resets (lasting up to 5 days) after you do a Full Factory Reset - but leave the box alone and let your Guide come back on its own.

Look closely at pictures 6997 and 6999. In chronological order picture 6999 read from bottom to top. On 3/17/09 I completed a Full Factory Reset – noted by the “0”. Because analogue was not yet operational in Houston, the unit attempted two additional resets on its own; but basically “died” (it had nothing to work with from TVGOS) until 3/26/09. All of the “-1” codes you see are where the box is resetting itself. Notice the two codes “8013” on the left in picture 6999. Those are system error codes. You will also notice it reset itself to its own ground zero of 01/01/04, and then followed by two more resets close to midnight on 3/28/09. It has been working “perfect” ever since! Picture 6997 “classifies” those various resets: See the two system error resets? See that there are a total of 12 resets; but I only did two of them (“one” Full Factory Reset and “one” Soft Reset-front panel). The other 10 resets the Sony Box did on its own based on information flowing again from TVGOS, AND once TVGOS started sending out analogue again it took the box about 3 days to fix itself.

Perhaps the most important thing to be “gained” from the two pages is: Once you have a good analogue source from TVGOS, and once you have a clean system to work with, the constant conflicts, messed up Guides, constant reboots, lock ups, and any other problems will be gone after The Full Factory Reset.

Please remember that this only applies if you have a solid reliable analogue source. Digital sources are still a big unknown. Will that change on Friday-I do not know?

I do know that I would want a “clean system” that is working correctly before, new firmware is installed. To me that just makes sense. I do realize that for many that will not be the case, because they no longer receive analogue TVGOS. If a new “firmware” does materialize then perhaps this becomes irrelevant? And then again maybe not?

Good Morning I am A newbie here with a problem that has just occurred with my 4 dhg-hdd500.I use them all OTA only and have been receiving digital host and also good vbi packets.Now all have stopped receiving host and vbi packets and i am down to the last 48 hours of listings>has something changed in the tranmissiom of the guide that i am not aware of.I have tried other channels in the area with no luck.Does anyone know what the problem might be?Thank you in advance for your help

I'm still checking the Sony web site every morning hoping to see the new firmware. If you haven't yet called Sony please call and see if there is any new news. I called and was told the new firmware will be out in 7 days or less. I was connected to the team working on the fix. when I asked the person on the phone for details about this team he admitted he just answers the phone on this dhg problem.

I'm still receiving 8 days of guide info on a digital PBS feed. My host channel is still blank.

Good Morning I am A newbie here with a problem that has just occurred with my 4 dhg-hdd500.I use them all OTA only and have been receiving digital host and also good vbi packets.Now all have stopped receiving host and vbi packets and i am down to the last 48 hours of listings>has something changed in the tranmissiom of the guide that i am not aware of.I have tried other channels in the area with no luck.Does anyone know what the problem might be?Thank you in advance for your help

In my area the cbs broadcast station had an equipment meltdown. After several days of recieving no or very slow data. I emailed the station and they said Macrovision was sending out new equipment. several days later I was getting good vbi. I made the mistake of doing a factory reset on one of my 250's because the 8.1.42 firmware will not load channel grid with a digital signal only. The only thing that will get that unit up will be the new firmware.

ss-stingray

I called the local CBS station and talked to the engineer and he said the digital tvgos does not use vbi packets to update the guide and also nothing has changed in the tranmission at his station,but admitted that it is only a pass tru from a statelite link.He said i probably need a upgrade of the software on the Sony dvr

I am on Comcast, and one channel, 515 Movieplex (MPLEX) in the Portland OR area, is not listed in TVGOS. I'm wondering if anyone else has managed to get that channel in their TVGOS line up. I'm skiddish of trying anything right now because the guide has been working for a while now. Thanks!

I called the local CBS station and talked to the engineer and he said the digital tvgos does not use vbi packets to update the guide and also nothing has changed in the tranmission at his station,but admitted that it is only a pass tru from a statelite link. He said i probably need a upgrade of the software on the Sony dvr.

Well at least you are lucky in that you're a Newbie. Newbies seem to have very good luck with Sony. I bet if you call them they will send the updated software right on over to your house via a hot-shot driver......... :rolleyes:

Well at least you are lucky in that you're a Newbie. Newbies seem to have very good luck with Sony. I bet if you call them they will send the updated software right on over to your house via a hot-shot driver......... :rolleyes:

Those were my THOUGHTS exactly :rolleyes:

Quote from the tvgos technical foq:
Is TVGOS data broadcast on digital channels, too?

No. Digital television broadcasts are in a completely different format from standard analog broadcasts. Most notably for TVGOS, digital channels do not have a vertical blanking interval in their broadcast signal. The ATSC standard does provide for data transmission with digital TV broadcasts, but TVGOS does not (currently) use that medium for its guide data

Quote from the tvgos technical foq:
Is TVGOS data broadcast on digital channels, too?

No. Digital television broadcasts are in a completely different format from standard analog broadcasts. Most notably for TVGOS, digital channels do not have a vertical blanking interval in their broadcast signal. The ATSC standard does provide for data transmission with digital TV broadcasts, but TVGOS does not (currently) use that medium for its guide data

I don't know who told you this. The statements above are totally untrue. While there is no VBI, the data is carried in the digital signal, and used by TVGOS.

http://home1.gte.net/res18h39/tvgos.theabsolutenuts.com/techfaq.html#DiagMode here is where i got the info from thanks

I believe the key word in your post is "currently". The document you referred to is copyright 2006. Hardly "current". Many many many people here have received TVGOS data via digital.

I agree, i have received the guide via a digital host and it was transmitting the vbi .I am just trying ti findout what happened to the guide this week and has anything changed .All 4 of my Sony DVR's were working flawlessly until this week.Just looking for answers is all.Thanks again

I sold my 500 and one of the hard drives died during shipping. I took it back and refunded the buyer. The 500 is off to Sony in Texas now. When it gets back, and I sell it again, is there a way to park the drive heads before shipping?

(I'm hoping it comes back with the firmware update.)

I sold my 500 and one of the hard drives died during shipping. I took it back and refunded the buyer. The 500 is off to Sony in Texas now. When it gets back, and I sell it again, is there a way to park the drive heads before shipping?

(I'm hoping it comes back with the firmware update.)

That is an obsolete scenario.

Heads are not suppose to crash like they did 20 years ago ;)

I sold my 500 and one of the hard drives died during shipping. I took it back and refunded the buyer. The 500 is off to Sony in Texas now. When it gets back, and I sell it again, is there a way to park the drive heads before shipping?

(I'm hoping it comes back with the firmware update.)


After you unplug it, let it sit a min. or two before you move it. You can put you hand on the box, and feel the discs stop spinning. Then it is ready to move.

My HDD500 is getting TVGOS data via digital OTA just fine. Full listings.

However, when I disconnect the OTA antenna and try to get TVGOS data via digital cable (Time Warner), the HDD500 does not get anything. I ran the G* Test, and the VBI Test fails, and the VBI counter stays at zero.

Is the cable company supposed to transmit the TVGOS data on the digital channel?
Whom should I contact?

Short Answer: Basically, the Sony Box is a computer. Sometimes, if soft resets (front panel or unplug), and TVGOS resets, and User Resets do not set things back to normal, then the Full Factory Reset (this includes reformat the hard drive as a part of the routine-recorded shows will be erased) would basically have the box reconfigure itself from scratch. This means reloading the built-it software/firmware to the "cleaned" hard drive, starting at ground zero. This of course wipes out the errors from too many user resets combined with TVGOS resets that have caused so many problems for some....

...If a new “firmware” does materialize then perhaps this becomes irrelevant? And then again maybe not?Many thanks. I'm pretty sure we have a strong analog host right now. I'll double check. Maybe I'll use my dad's DHG-500 as a guinea pig.

Full Factory Reset, here I come!

...I'll wait for that new firmware, first, though.

Is the cable company supposed to transmit the TVGOS data on the digital channel?


I think every situation is different and it depends on your cable company.

I'm with Comcast and I'm pretty sure that TVGOS is being transmitted on both the digital and analog CBS channels.

I say this because my Host ID has been "1:0-2" for a while. This is Cable/Analog/CBS. I can manually tune to Cable/Digital/CBS on 1:3-1, and can get VBI packets there as well.

It seems as though my Comcast provider is passing along the TVGOS on the Digital CBS, but somehow passing that on the analog as well. Perhaps Comcast takes the digital CBS feed, cuts the sides off, then converts to analog before sending it out and maybe the TVGOS data stays intact.

ft

Good Morning I am A newbie here with a problem that has just occurred with my 4 dhg-hdd500.I use them all OTA only and have been receiving digital host and also good vbi packets.Now all have stopped receiving host and vbi packets and i am down to the last 48 hours of listings>has something changed in the tranmissiom of the guide that i am not aware of.I have tried other channels in the area with no luck.Does anyone know what the problem might be?Thank you in advance for your help
What is your location? That would be very helpful to us here to know.
Here in Atlanta, CBS still has not gotten their encoder fixed, so we have been without any digital TVGOS for 3+ weeks now. I still have the analog station WSB 2 which is my host at the moment.
Michael

Is the cable company supposed to transmit the TVGOS data on the digital channel?Here in Chicago, a few years back Comcast added an analog channel to their all-digital service, channel 94. Channel 94 provided an analog "cable" version of local PBS Channel 11, the TVGOS host at the time. My DVRs found it by themselves.

Recently, CBS took over hosting the data. After my last TV Guide reset, I noticed that the host was channel 94. What?! I tuned channel 94, and guess what? It's CBS analog, now. Comcast actually put things right. Until June 12, anyway.

Someone must have complained. My money's on PhillyC.:D

The 2-1 machine maintained a host of 3-0 and clock set of 2-1 while the other clock set went back to 0-2 but the host stayed at 3-0. I know it's not supposed to make a difference when turned off but in the digital world who knows? As long as they where set to 2-1 when turned off they stayed at 3-0 as host and 2-1 as clock set..

My host is 2-1 but my clock set is 0-2. Did you somehow force your clock set to 2-1?

What is your location? That would be very helpful to us here to know.
Here in Atlanta, CBS still has not gotten their encoder fixed, so we have been without any digital TVGOS for 3+ weeks now. I still have the analog station WSB 2 which is my host at the moment.
Michael

How did WSB 2 analog which is ABC replace PBS 97 analog on Comcast in Atlanta? I am confused! Am on Comcast (Vinings headend) in Atlanta and also have lost TVGOS for almost a month. Has someone from CBS informed you that their encoder is broken and will be transmitting digital TVGOS data in the future?

How did WSB 2 analog which is ABC replace PBS 97 analog on Comcast in Atlanta? I am confused! Am on Comcast (Vinings headend) in Atlanta and also have lost TVGOS for almost a month. Has someone from CBS informed you that their encoder is broken and will be transmitting digital TVGOS data in the future?
I do not think 2 is on or at least have not found 2 analog on Comcast so far. Do not know just where or what 97 really is as far as the host. Meaning that I do not know where the host on 97 orignated when it was still working.
I hooked up an antenna so I could get a host(2 analog).

I keep getting the run-a-round with Comcast as to the TVGOS epg data. Have called and emailed them over a dozen or so times. NOt supported. Have to buy their box, etc...
46.1 said TVGOS is working on their encoder, but has not yet given any date as to when it will be back up and running.
Michael

My host is 2-1 but my clock set is 0-2. Did you somehow force your clock set to 2-1?

My one 500 has been bouncing around from 0-2 to 2-1 alot for clock set.
Both hosts however have been 3-0 for 2 weeks now
Last night I left both off and set to 2-1, 1 is using 2-1 as clock set and the other is using 0-2.
As long as the clock is alright I wouldn't worry about it as they seem to goto to digital on their own if and when they need to.
It does seem to use 2-1 for clock set more consistantly if left on 2-1 when turned off.

(What is your location? That would be very helpful to us here to know.
Here in Atlanta, CBS still has not gotten their encoder fixed, so we have been without any digital TVGOS for 3+ weeks now. I still have the analog station WSB 2 which is my host at the moment.)
Michael ............................................................ ............................................................ . Hi Michael i am down here in Dothan,Alabama.That might just be the problem i am encountering not sure where the CBS signal comes from thanks for the reply

(What is your location? That would be very helpful to us here to know.
Here in Atlanta, CBS still has not gotten their encoder fixed, so we have been without any digital TVGOS for 3+ weeks now. I still have the analog station WSB 2 which is my host at the moment.)
Michael ............................................................ ............................................................ . Hi Michael i am down here in Dothan,Alabama.That might just be the problem i am encountering not sure where the CBS signal comes from thanks for the reply
If you know which station was providing you TVGOS, email or call the engineer there and tell them that you are no longer getting any TVGOS and ask that they check their equipment. If they are at all familar with it, then it should not be a problem.
Michael

It does seem to use 2-1 for clock set more consistantly if left on 2-1 when turned off.

Most likely what is really happening is that when you turn it on, it is doing a clock set right then so that is the channel you see. You can prove that out by tuning to some other channel before turning the unit off. Then look the next day at your clock set channel before you tune to 2-1 again. If it shows 0-2 then that is where your overnight download is coming from.

I got an answer from "Ask Rick" at Comcast as to the TVGOS problem with their cable. I posted this over in the local Atlanta Comcast thread for those interested.
Michael

Here in Chicago, a few years back Comcast added an analog channel to their all-digital service, channel 94. Channel 94 provided an analog "cable" version of local PBS Channel 11, the TVGOS host at the time. My DVRs found it by themselves.

Recently, CBS took over hosting the data. After my last TV Guide reset, I noticed that the host was channel 94. What?! I tuned channel 94, and guess what? It's CBS analog, now. Comcast actually put things right. Until June 12, anyway.

Someone must have complained. My money's on PhillyC.:D

I've been in touch with the engineer several times about this, but could not get a firm answer. (He was the guy, however, that contacted Chicago CBS a couple of weeks ago and got TVGOS data restarted on OTA 2.1.) I did not know 94 was switched to CBS analog until I read your post.

But the BIG question is this: Is 94 CBS simply the cable version of CBS analog 2 that will go away on June 12? Or is it converted directly from Comcast's CBS-HD fiber feed using the new 8VSB receiver that takes the SCTE 127 compliant digital TVGOS and turns it into analog TVGOS data on an analog version of the channel?

http://www.megahz.com/specimages/Tandberg/RX8320.pdf

TVGOS told me that the latter is the easy permanent solution for cable customers with legacy devices. But my engineer contact does not seem to have a clear understanding of this concept. We'll find out soon...

If you know which station was providing you TVGOS, email or call the engineer there and tell them that you are no longer getting any TVGOS and ask that they check their equipment. If they are at all familar with it, then it should not be a problem.
Michael
Thanks Michael ,I have already contacted the local engineer at CBS and explained that I was receiving tvgos up until last Saturday, he said everything was working fine.He also stated that all's they do is pass thru the signal from another location (from where i didnt ask) Thank you

I would call the engineer back and ask him to reset the box. These things lock up and the local engineers won't know it. It has been reported before where a certain area lost listings and upon the local station resetting the equipment that TVGoS provides, the listings start populating again.

Myoda -

Are we still on schedule for tomorrow morning? :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :)

Just got off the phone with Sony in San Diego. The fimware will be posted at 9am EST this Friday, April 17 on esupport.sony.com for both the dhg-hdd250 and the dhg-hdd 500. There was a beta version that was in development, but the final version that fixes the TVGOS issue will be available this Friday. :) They had heard that someone in a forum somewhere that someone got the file early...

I would call the engineer back and ask him to reset the box. These things lock up and the local engineers won't know it. It has been reported before where a certain area lost listings and upon the local station resetting the equipment that TVGoS provides, the listings start populating again.

I would like to thank everyone for the input.I emailed the chief engineer at the local CBS station about their encoder possibly needing a reset.I just checked my Sony dhg-500 and now they are all receiving the vbi packets,so it looks like i might be back to receiving the tvgos.

I also lost the guide since last weekend. I'm in Green Bay,Wi area. I tried resetting zip code but to no avail. I sent a message to my local CBS station to ask what the trouble might be. This Sony has been working great since 05 but sure wish it had two tuners.

Our analog host went dark last night. The new digital host has been up for over 3 months, but I have been receiving data from the analog host.
Should I:
Just let things go and wait to see what happens,
Do a Diagnostic reset (within the TVGOS menu),
Or, wait for this possible new firmware?

Myoda -

Are we still on schedule for tomorrow morning? :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :)

Call me crazy (or just an optimist), but I think there really might be a firmware release... :rolleyes:

Call me crazy (or just an optimist), but I think there really might be a firmware release... :rolleyes:

I have my fingers (and toes) crossed............:D

I'm thinking that myoda may have received the straight story from the Sony people he talked to. The only thing that I can't quite understand is why they would build all the suspense by waiting until 9:00am EST on Friday ??? :confused::confused::confused:

Myoda -

Are we still on schedule for tomorrow morning? :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :)

We will just have to wait and see - I'm just going on what the Sony agent told me a few days ago.

We will just have to wait and see - I'm just going on what the Sony agent told me a few days ago.

I really hope Sony is telling the truth. I have been calling Sony since Feb bitching about this. I told them about MRBUGS posting that he has the software. I was told that the software will be released in 7 days. That was at 8:30 am est Monday that I called. Others posted that it will be released friday. If it isn't released friday I will be on the phone again. If anyone reading this hasn't called I hope you take the time to do so. With enough angry Sony customers they will fix this. We will see

Still waiting in Florida
SS-Stingray

I have my fingers (and toes) crossed............:D

I'm thinking that myoda may have received the straight story from the Sony people he talked to. The only thing that I can't quite understand is why they would build all the suspense by waiting until 9:00am EST on Friday ??? :confused::confused::confused:

Yeah - you would think that this was an Apple press conference/product release/keynote address or something!

After using the Sony's component outputs for years, I recently got a 1080p display, connected over HDMI. I'm seeing the full 1920x1080 now, with no overscan, and this has revealed an apparent bug in the DVR's UI (firmware version 1.2.13): I frequently see a small grey box, maybe 16x16 pixels, in the very top left corner. It's definitely coming from the DVR and seems to be a minimized version of the OSD UI background. If I bring up any of the Sony's onscreen displays, the little box disappears, and it reappears as soon as the OSD disappears. I'd never noticed this on my CRT because it was offscreen in the overscan area. I found with some general futzing around, it's possible to get the grey box to go away, but if anyone knows an exact sequence of steps to get rid of it, please let me know.

My one 500 has been bouncing around from 0-2 to 2-1 alot for clock set.
Both hosts however have been 3-0 for 2 weeks now
Last night I left both off and set to 2-1, 1 is using 2-1 as clock set and the other is using 0-2.
As long as the clock is alright I wouldn't worry about it as they seem to goto to digital on their own if and when they need to.
It does seem to use 2-1 for clock set more consistantly if left on 2-1 when turned off.

I don't know why I can't seem to find where the clock set is listed; is it labeled something cryptic? :rolleyes:

Anyway, I still have a blank host channel, but have listings for eight days.

I have been tuning them to 2.1 before turning off, and the smattering of blank listings from day eight have not re-appeared on the one effected unit. Probably just a coincidence, but thought it best to mention it.

I guess as long as I have the listings, and an accurate clock, I shouldn't worry about it, right?

Mark

Giomania - No it's not cryptic, it's plainly labeled. But I can't tell you from memory where to find it.....

dp70 - I've never noticed the gray box, but I'll look for it on my two HDD500's that are connected via HDMI to LCD's.

I just hope that Sony doesn't notice your post concerning this. I can see it already....... "We were just about to post the new firmware to our site when we heard about the Gray Box bug. Therefore we will delay the new firmware release until we can address this new bug........" :eek: :eek: :eek: :eek: :eek:

I also lost the guide since last weekend. I'm in Green Bay,Wi area. I tried resetting zip code but to no avail. I sent a message to my local CBS station to ask what the trouble might be. This Sony has been working great since 05 but sure wish it had two tuners.

I have had 4 Sony's for 2 years now and have had no trouble with them until last week.I lost the guide and lost the vbi on the host channel and knew there was a problem at CBS somewhere .I first called the chief engineer and nothing was done, on the advise Michael i emailed the chief engineer and low and behold I got the vbi signal back.I would check to make sure you dont have the vbi signal on your host channel and if you dont ,the problem wiil most likely be CBS in your area.Good Luck this forum is a great help to Sony DHG owners thanks

I don't know why I can't seem to find where the clock set is listed; is it labeled something cryptic?

From the initial 7531 display, you need to arrow down twice (I think) to get to the clocks display. I'm not at home now so I can't test it.

From the initial 7531 display, you need to arrow down twice (I think) to get to the clocks display. I'm not at home now so I can't test it.

That is correct. That gets you to the Clocks1 page. Then arrow right once to get to Clocks2 where you will see the ClockSet channel.

After using the Sony's component outputs for years, I recently got a 1080p display, connected over HDMI. I'm seeing the full 1920x1080 now, with no overscan, and this has revealed an apparent bug in the DVR's UI (firmware version 1.2.13): I frequently see a small grey box, maybe 16x16 pixels, in the very top left corner. It's definitely coming from the DVR and seems to be a minimized version of the OSD UI background. If I bring up any of the Sony's onscreen displays, the little box disappears, and it reappears as soon as the OSD disappears. I'd never noticed this on my CRT because it was offscreen in the overscan area. I found with some general futzing around, it's possible to get the grey box to go away, but if anyone knows an exact sequence of steps to get rid of it, please let me know.

While watching a live show you are chasing OR watching a recorded show; just press the "play" button and the little box will go away.

The box is actually “black” with a super thin white line border around it. It is the mask from the previous Guide Screens.

It will show up as gray on most LCD’s because it is in the corner.

It will show up as black on a most plasma sets.

Just hit play button will remove the “mask” and take the black (or gray) box with it.


Side Note: This only shows up on a 1080i source and you are playing on a 1080i or 1080p TV and have 1 to 1 pixel mapping in place.

Thanks! I did see the mask problem while playing a 720p recording too. So maybe having the output set to 1080i and a display that shows the whole image area is all it takes.

Now to figure out why sometimes the topmost line of the 1080i output over HDMI is bright green. Haven't proven it is the DVR's fault yet, but it doesn't occur with any of my other HDMI sources.

Thanks! I did see the mask problem while playing a 720p recording too. So maybe having the output set to 1080i and a display that shows the whole image area is all it takes.

Now to figure out why sometimes the topmost line of the 1080i output over HDMI is bright green. Haven't proven it is the DVR's fault yet, but it doesn't occur with any of my other HDMI sources.

Is it "only" 1080i from the Sony DVR that is producing the top green line with 1 to 1 pixel mapping OR does the TV also do this on the same program via OTA or cable?

The reason I ask that question I had one Samsung LCD 1080p TV, that would "not" stay "set" with a 1080i input via HDMI (Sony connection). Each and every time I switched to the 1080 HDMI source, I had to adjust the picture alignment up by two spaces; and yet the OTA 1080i source "never" had that problem with 1 to 1 pixel mapping. In that cause it was a defect in the Samsung software; HDMI sources could not retain picture position after changing sources. This particular Samsung was always centered correctly with 1 to 1 pixel mapping via OTA; but as soon as you switched to HDMI, the picture would drop "exactly" two pixels rows. If it is a Samsung and if you can change picture position; does it retain position after changing sources (inputs)?

Be certain to confirm that the top green line is there via OTA and/or cable as well - it could be in the original source material and with 1 to 1 pixel mapping you may not be able to get rid of it.

[QUOTE=dp70;16281721]Thanks! I did see the mask problem while playing a 720p recording too. So maybe having the output set to 1080i and a display that shows the whole image area is all it takes.

[QUOTE]

Yes that is correct because the TV thinks it is getting 1080i as its source and it is doing 1 to 1 pixel mapping; hence the little square.

giomania,
Goto the TV guide screen and upto the top, move over 2 clicks to Setup, 1 click down and immediately type in 753159852. this should get you to the hidden menu screen. Go down 2 clicks and to the right 1 click. This shows the Clock-set channel and clock fail channels. You can't change anything here it's just for info.

Our analog host went dark last night. The new digital host has been up for over 3 months, but I have been receiving data from the analog host.
Should I:
Just let things go and wait to see what happens,
Do a Diagnostic reset (within the TVGOS menu),
Or, wait for this possible new firmware?

I'd do two things.

First, I'd tune to your digital host channel, and run the G* Test, (this gets the digital side of things working if you haven't done this since the last reset). If you've done the G* Test recently on this channel, then you don't need to do this.

Second, I would do the zip code reset where you set the zip code to 00000, then turn off the DVR for 5 minutes, and then turn it back on, and re-enter your real zip code. On my DVR, this tends to clear out my existing host channel, forcing the DVR to re-acquire it. This may take up to 3 days.

Mark

Just got off the phone with Sony. A fix will be released this Friday.:)

Nothing in the mail today.

Folks, hang in there, it will work. After more than 20 days, 2 full factory resets
(format), lots of lockups and you name it, I finally have it running again.
Host and clockset are both 15.1 OTA, correct time, correct cable provider and
full listing.

more ups and downs....actually mostly downs lately - sometime last week, I had a full 8 days, but the only download I've gotten this week was, I guess Tuesday, since the only listings I have for next week (including Sunday) are for Tuesday....

for the last 3 weeks, I've made it a policy of NOT trying to push anything, just take what I get from normal overnight downloads and, as noted, only 1 this week...

My Lg3410a, in contrast, has been absolutely solid for the past couple of weeks, all from CBS analog 5, which my Sony has never identified as a data source (except make in the DL schedule, which has 4 or 5 analog stations and one digital, but I haven't been able to figure what the analog stations ARE, other than that PBS 9 is the only one that has ever been identified as a host channel - as far as I know - by my Sony)

Wow, the rumors were true! Sony has posted version 1.2.21 for download! (http://esupport.sony.com/US/perl/swu-download.pl?upd_id=4542&mdl=DHGHDD500)

Their instructions don't mention setting the flash drive's volume label to SONYHDD500, but I'll bet that's still necessary.

Edited: looks like setting the volume label isn't necessary for this update due to the upgRec.bin file being present.

Tip for Macintosh users: the download is a self-extracting Windows .exe file which won't run under Mac OS. You can nevertheless extract it with Stuffit Expander. Launch SE, choose File --> Expand, and select the file.

I now have the 'sony' folder on my desktop waiting to be copied to a flash drive, but it will have to wait until I come home from work this afternoon... gotta run.

I downloaded the file and printed the instructions. I'm going to get everything set up on my USB flashdrive in a few minutes. But I'll have to wait until I leave my office (early) today to do the upgrade.

Has anyone actually tried it yet ??? :):):)

Hey all...

The race is on to see who can post their results first...

I want to know if the firmware version of the TVGOS software is being updated along with the Sony's firmware version (to 1.2.21)...

:)

EDIT: And perhaps some of you owe apologies to all the "newbs"... :p

Is this a dream or am I awake yet?

Is this a dream or am I awake yet?Wait untill it is proven that it actually works. ;)

On another note, a '500' just sold for slightly over $400 on e-bay. A far cry from the ones that sold for around $700 last week.

Wow, the rumors were true! Sony has posted version 1.2.21 for download! (http://esupport.sony.com/US/perl/swu-download.pl?upd_id=4542&mdl=DHGHDD500)

THANKS SONY http://www.rx8web.com/smilies/bouncy.gif Now I don't feel guilty for buying
TWO NEW SONY LAPTOP COMPUTERS in the Last 5 Days http://www.rx8web.com/smilies/bouncy.gif

I downloaded the file and printed the instructions. I'm going to get everything set up on my USB flashdrive in a few minutes. But I'll have to wait until I leave my office (early) today to do the upgrade.

Has anyone actually tried it yet ??? :):):)

Yes but.....
Nothing happened. I tried it with 3 different flash drives. I copied files to the root. I copied the directory to the root. I labeled the volume sonyhdd250.
I labeled the volume sonyhdd500.
Guess I will have to wait until I receive my micro drive from sony or someone comes up with an idea.
The display does not appear as described.

On another note, a '500' just went for just over $400 on e-bay. A far cry from the ones that sold for around $700 last week.

Some really smart (rich) guy should buy up all of the "buy it now" 500's and 250's early this morning before the news really hits the streets and the prices spike . . . :p:p:p

Yes but.....
Nothing happened. I tried it with 3 different flash drives. I copied files to the root. I copied the directory to the root. I labeled the volume sonyhdd250.
I labeled the volume sonyhdd500.
Guess I will have to wait until I receive my micro drive from sony or someone comes up with an idea.
The display does not appear as described.

Be sure your flashdrive is formatted as FAT32. Put the files in the directory called SONY. Be sure you have run the downloaded file on your computer first to extract the 4 individual files required. Be sure you insert the flashdrive into the HDDxxx while the HDDxxx is already turned ON. In the past I have used 256MB, 4GB, and 8GB Sandisk Cruzer flashdrives successfully. There is a also compatibility list you can view on the Sony page where you downloaded the files from.

THE VOLUME LABEL IS UNIMPORTANT !!!

But, after fxstsb's post, I would wait. :D

It's also formatted in 'FAT32'.

But, after fxstsb's post, I would wait. :D

It's also formatted in 'FAT32'.

I'm just pleased that they posted the F/W when they said they would. Even a couple of hours early.

Wow, the rumors were true! Sony has posted version 1.2.21 for download! (http://esupport.sony.com/US/perl/swu-download.pl?upd_id=4542&mdl=DHGHDD500)

Not only that - but they were early! What happened to 9:00 am EST?

I have installed the 1.2.21 firmware upgrade just now.

I am OTA only in the Mobile, AL area. No analog TVGOS sources at all, PBS has been transmitting TVGOS on their digital channel 42.1 (UHF 41) since late March. My dhg500 had lost the grid after a power failure and was in the limbo state with accurate time and ads, but NO DATA FOR THIS SCREEN message. I had tried the TVGOS data reset several times, but have not tried a full factory reset.

The instructions on the sony website were accurate. I used a blank usb drive formated to fat32 and vol label SONYHDD500. Update worked first time. When I turned the dvr on after the upgrade, the clock was 45 mins slow while it was accurate before. The clock updated immediately to the correct time.

The 753 menu first screen now shows a new TVGOS version: 08.01.71/08.06.44/00.00.00/0000012C/64/0000 and the build time changed from Jan 2005 to Sep 22 2006. Clock set and failing clock set channels both show the PBS digital channel. The Slicing Data screen shows lots of activity and indicates that a time zone packet had been received (I think this was the missing link in getting digital TVGOS). I ran a G test and that screen also indicates the new TVGOS verson number 08.01.71, but I could not get the VBI test to pass even after 2 minutes of trying. However, the 753 menu shows otherwise.... I didn't do the G test for VBI before I did the upgrade, but it had previously passed on the PBS digital channel.

Guess time will tell. I plan to leave the dvr off today and check it tonight to see if the firmware upgrade will let the dvr find TVGOS grid & listings on its own without any other resets. The unit does reboot as part of the firmware upgrade.
Charlie

cem -

Welcome to the forum and thanks for the informative report. Please keep us informed as to your progress in regaining your listings. :)

I have installed the 1.2.21 firmware upgrade just now.

I am OTA only in the Mobile, AL area. No analog TVGOS sources at all, PBS has been transmitting TVGOS on their digital channel 42.1 (UHF 41) since late March. My dhg500 had lost the grid after a power failure and was in the limbo state with accurate time and ads, but NO DATA FOR THIS SCREEN message. I had tried the TVGOS data reset several times, but have not tried a full factory reset.

The instructions on the sony website were accurate. I used a blank usb drive formated to fat32 and vol label SONYHDD500. Update worked first time. When I turned the dvr on after the upgrade, the clock was 45 mins slow while it was accurate before. The clock updated immediately to the correct time.

The 753 menu first screen now shows a new TVGOS version: 08.01.71/08.06.44/00.00.00/0000012C/64/0000 and the build time changed from Jan 2005 to Sep 22 2006. Clock set and failing clock set channels both show the PBS digital channel. The Slicing Data screen shows lots of activity and indicates that a time zone packet had been received (I think this was the missing link in getting digital TVGOS). I ran a G test and that screen also indicates the new TVGOS verson number 08.07.71, but I could not get the VBI test to pass even after 2 minutes of trying. However, the 753 menu shows otherwise.... I didn't do the G test for VBI before I did the upgrade, but it had previously passed on the PBS digital channel.

Guess time will tell. I plan to leave the dvr off today and check it tonight to see if the firmware upgrade will let the dvr find TVGOS grid & listings on its own without any other resets. The unit does reboot as part of the firmware upgrade.
Charlie


Ok, I got the Volume Label; BUT

Instruction Number 10: Do I copy over a "Sony" directory with the four files in it OR do I just copy the four files to the root of the USB stick"?

that instruction number 10 is not clear to me?

The 753 menu first screen now shows a new TVGOS version: 08.01.71/08.06.44/00.00.00/0000012C/64/0000

So the base version is now 08.01.71 and the "upgraded" version (from TVGOS downloads) is still 08.06.44. That seems to indicate that the Sony update does not wipe out your current (updated) version of TVGOS software. Otherwise it would read 08.01.71/00.00.00/00.00.00.

The four files belong in a directory called SONY which should reside in the root.

Ok, I see the approved list on the Web Site AND

There is a PNY Attache 1GB listed...................I only have a PNY/Attache 512MB (more than big enough only need 20MB).

Wonder if that stick will work? Anybody know?

Ok, I see the approved list on the Web Site AND

There is a PNY Attache 1GB listed...................I only have a PNY/Attache 512MB (more than big enough only need 20MB).

Wonder if that stick will work? Anybody know?

I don't think the list is all-inclusive. I think your 512mb will work fine. I have an 8GB Sandisk that works, and it is not on the list althougn other Sandisk's are.

The four files belong in a directory called SONY which should reside in the root.


So you are telling me this?

Label is: SONYHDD500

And a look at the root of the USB will look like this?

\SONY
msddf.bin
sign.dat
target.cfs
upgRec.bin


in otherwords there is a folder on the USB stick called \SONY with the 4 files in it (the 4 files are not on the root)?

I don't think the list is all-inclusive. I think your 512mb will work fine. I have an 8GB Sandisk that works, and it is not on the list althougn other Sandisk's are.


Thanks, ok, that is sort of what I thought

So you are telling me this?

Label is: SONYHDD500

And a look at the root of the USB will look like this?

\SONY
msddf.bin
sign.dat
target.cfs
upgRec.bin


in otherwords there is a folder on the USB stick called \SONY with the 4 files in it (the 4 files are not on the root)?

YES, and be sure it's formatted as FAT32

And insert it while the DHG is turned ON

cem -

Welcome to the forum and thanks for the informative report. Please keep us informed as to your progress in regaining your listings. :)
Been lurking here quite awhile, thanks to everyone else for my knowledge on this beast...

YES, and be sure it's formatted as FAT32

And insert it while the DHG is turned ON

Thanks, got it.

I will be gone a few hours, so I will come back and check the forum before I begin anthing. Later

Anybody want to place bets on how many pages get added to this thread today??? :D

:(We have 5 flash drives in our house. None are on the approved list. None work. So..will have to buy a drive specifically for this firmware upgrade.:mad:

So, if we already get the guide from a OTA digital station, we need this update only for when we lose power?

So the base version is now 08.01.71 and the "upgraded" version (from TVGOS downloads) is still 08.06.44. That seems to indicate that the Sony update does not wipe out your current (updated) version of TVGOS software. Otherwise it would read 08.01.71/00.00.00/00.00.00.
That's what I thought too, however, the ads disappeared after the upgrade. Anyway, I'll see where it is tonight.