If you update the Sony firmware, you do not need to run the g*test--it is not useful once you have updated the Sony firmware.

With the new firmware (1.2.21), the G* Factory Test no longer works for checking digital channels for TVGOS, but it can still be used for checking analog channels. There aren't any analog OTA broadcasts that carry TVGOS, but some cable companies add TVGOS to an analog channel. So it's good to know both methods (G* Factory Test and the 753159852 screens) if you're on cable.

The G* Factory Test can also check the analog output from a DTVPal+ or Artec OTA converter box that converts digital TVGOS to analog. I've used it that way myself.

Awesome guys....thanks for your help. I installed the update...then went to the "753159852 screens" on the digital PBS station on my cable station & had info coming through...the clock updated pretty much immediately!

Its turned off now to update the guide info...:D

Thanks again!

Awesome guys....thanks for your help. I installed the update...then went to the "753159852 screens" on the digital PBS station on my cable station & had info coming through...the clock updated pretty much immediately!

Its turned off now to update the guide info...:D
Be aware of the possibility that you may have to run the G* Test three times before you get a channel grid. Here's why.

If you are running the older firmware (not the .21 version), then your DHG needs a kick in the butt to know that it should be looking for data. With analog, it used to happen automatically. With digital, it's not as easy.

Starting from a fresh DHG, your TVGOS software version should be 8.1.42 (as seen on the 753 menu). After running the G* test on a known digital host channel, the DHG will start to look for data. Eventually, the TVGOS software will update to 8.5.something and the clock will be lost ... but it'll need another G* test to get the digital data flowing again; this will likely update the clock once again. Lastly, the DHG will update to 8.6.44 (again the clock will be lost). Running the G* test one last time should get the data flowing.

After this happens, you should eventually be able to build your channel line-up. Depending on how quickly you run the G* test after a TVGOS software update, this could take a day to 3 days. The last step is kinda random, apparently.

Good luck

My guide disappeared soon after the digital switch over. Spent many hours (and weeks of waiting) trying to recover. Despite all help from the forums and Sony (slight help) - never recovered. My other unit, whichhad gone back to Sony for a disc swap, returned with no problem getting the guide.

Just sent my unit to Sony as a last resort to fix the "lack of TVGOS" problem -everything else working - and they inform me they cannot repair the unit as the bad part is the TVGOS component and there are no parts available to fix! So they are sending it back (or would give a pro-rated refund).
My unit worked fine till the Digital switch, despite upgrading to version 21, the unit never got the program guide. Just a heads-up! In Houston TX.

Anyone know a source of this service manual? I'll take a copy if anyone has one.

Making a long story short -- I sent a Sony DVR to my brother, hoping he would enjoy one of the finer things in life. He didn't. When I pressed him about how he liked it he confessed he had removed the hard drive and used it in a PC. [my expletives deleted]

So I have it back now. It has its original drive back but booted to "Error 0008000"

I did the front panel repair procedure as in 1.2.8 of Spiff's FAQ, selecting "Clear NVM and Format Drive".

When it was done I still could get no further than the Welcome Screen, then "Error 0008001" this time. I don't have a list of error codes but I'll bet 8001 means the DVR is still unhappy with the hard drive.

It would pain me to spend $150 to have Sony make this DVR recognize its original hard drive. (but will if I have to.)

Can anyone offer a magic fix? Thank you.

Making a long story short -- I sent a Sony DVR to my brother, hoping he would enjoy one of the finer things in life. He didn't. When I pressed him about how he liked it he confessed he had removed the hard drive and used it in a PC. [my expletives deleted]

It would pain me to spend $150 to have Sony make this DVR recognize its original hard drive. (but will if I have to.)

Can anyone offer a magic fix? Thank you.
have your brother send you the $150 plus shipping costs...sorry, but it just seemed obvious...(though I realize one can have trouble with brothers)

Be aware of the possibility that you may have to run the G* Test three times before you get a channel grid. Here's why.

If you are running the older firmware (not the .21 version), then your DHG needs a kick in the butt to know that it should be looking for data. With analog, it used to happen automatically. With digital, it's not as easy.

Starting from a fresh DHG, your TVGOS software version should be 8.1.42 (as seen on the 753 menu). After running the G* test on a known digital host channel, the DHG will start to look for data. Eventually, the TVGOS software will update to 8.5.something and the clock will be lost ... but it'll need another G* test to get the digital data flowing again; this will likely update the clock once again. Lastly, the DHG will update to 8.6.44 (again the clock will be lost). Running the G* test one last time should get the data flowing.

After this happens, you should eventually be able to build your channel line-up. Depending on how quickly you run the G* test after a TVGOS software update, this could take a day to 3 days. The last step is kinda random, apparently.

Good luck

It should have caught the 1st update today & I've still got nothing....will I still have to do the G* test since I upgraded to the latest version?

Thanks

Edit: I just tried the G* test anyways on the digital channel....at the top it says Version: 08.01.71
Flash Test: PASS
VBI Test: FAIL
ATSC TEST: PASS
SERIAL TEST: FAIL
IR TEST: FAIL

VBI: 0 Good
ATSC: PAT 1 Good
ATSC: PMT 5 Good

Is there anything else I should look for? I will leave it powered off tonight & hopefully it will be good to go tomorrow?

I have previously discussed the HostSUFlags field in the 753 menu. I believe it is an indicator of what data has been received by the DVR, and that their are 9 pieces of information that your DVR has to acquire in order to set a host channel. If the HostSUFlags gets to a value of 0xff800000, indicating that all 9 pieces of data have been received, then your host channel will be set. Setting a host channel is essential to getting a grid. I have set up a webpage that simulates how the HostSUFlags field works. This may help to explain the different values that it shows, and how it gets to those values. If you are curious about this field, but you don't understand hex numbers, this might make it easier to understand. You can check it out here (http://members.cox.net/mabuttra/tvgos/hostsuflags.htm).

Mark

I have previously discussed the HostSUFlags field in the 753 menu. I believe it is an indicator of what data has been received by the DVR, and that their are 9 pieces of information that your DVR has to acquire in order to set a host channel. If the HostSUFlags gets to a value of 0xff800000, indicating that all 9 pieces of data have been received, then your host channel will be set. Setting a host channel is essential to getting a grid. I have set up a webpage that simulates how the HostSUFlags field works. This may help to explain the different values that it shows, and how it gets to those values. If you are curious about this field, but you don't understand hex numbers, this might make it easier to understand. You can check it out here (http://members.cox.net/mabuttra/tvgos/hostsuflags.htm).

Mark

Mark,
I see you have put in a lot of thought into this. I have never been able to get a host since the feb shut off of analoge. My host us flags have been since Feb oxe68 . I used your site and the missing data is the three unknows. I was unable to build a grid without a vcr tape that was recorded last Jan before the analog shut off. I think that somebody using the same station in my area did report that he was able to build a grid. His DHG was a 500 and both of mine are 250's. I still get all listing after I built the grid with the tape. Maybe this info will help you.

SS-Stingray

I have previously discussed the HostSUFlags field in the 753 menu. I believe it is an indicator of what data has been received by the DVR, and that their are 9 pieces of information that your DVR has to acquire in order to set a host channel. If the HostSUFlags gets to a value of 0xff800000, indicating that all 9 pieces of data have been received, then your host channel will be set. Setting a host channel is essential to getting a grid. I have set up a webpage that simulates how the HostSUFlags field works. This may help to explain the different values that it shows, and how it gets to those values. If you are curious about this field, but you don't understand hex numbers, this might make it easier to understand. You can check it out here (http://members.cox.net/mabuttra/tvgos/hostsuflags.htm).

Mark

Thanks Mark for taking the time to create the HostSUFlags simulator. Man you are pure genius. There is still major problems in Houston, with MyBox receiving 20-30 timezone pkts per day, it is if the “bits” are all mixed up on what it should be receiving.

Mark is this statement true?

Clear Button = NumSearch = “00000” routine.

In a perfect world I still think HostChannel should set in 24 hours.

Mark is this statement true?

Clear Button = NumSearch = “00000” routine.

Yes... and No.
The Clear button acts like the "recycle" that happens after 4.5 days if your host channel is blank, or 3 days if your host channel is set. The "00000" routine will have this same effect, but only if the host channel is blank. I have observed (and I have said this before), that if the host channel is set, the "00000" routine has no effect whatsoever (and I have tried this leaving the DVR off for as little as 5 minutes and up to 30 minutes). Your statment is only true if your host channel is blank. Sorry to be such a stickler for details. ;)


In a perfect world I still think HostChannel should set in 24 hours.


You are right, in a perfect world all of this data would be sent out several times a day, and getting a host channel (and a grid) would not be an issue.

Mark

Mark -

Your HostSUFlags simulator is very well done. You have obviously put a great deal of thought and effort into this. However, I must point out that there is one glaring omission............. Where is the "Kick it in the Pants" button??? :D:D:D:D:D

It should have caught the 1st update today & I've still got nothing....will I still have to do the G* test since I upgraded to the latest version?It sounds like you're set and won't need to do the G* test since you're on the .21 firmware.

Edit: I just tried the G* test anyways on the digital channel....at the top it says Version: 08.01.71
Flash Test: PASS
VBI Test: FAIL
ATSC TEST: PASS
SERIAL TEST: FAIL
IR TEST: FAIL

VBI: 0 Good
ATSC: PAT 1 Good
ATSC: PMT 5 GoodAre you on the correct digital channel? The fact that you're not getting VBI data tells me one of two things. 1. That the channel you're tuned into isn't sending digital TVGOS data ... or 2. No one in your area is sending digital TVGOS data. If this is the case, then you may not be able to ever get a grid. One question ... did you wait long enough? On my system, I have to wait about 18 seconds before the VBI data starts flowing. If I press "2", the VBI test will start over and I "Pass".

Is there anything else I should look for? I will leave it powered off tonight & hopefully it will be good to go tomorrow?Keep checking the 753 menu and see if you're getting up to 8.6.44. I believe that the .21 firmware resets the base software version from 8.1.42 to 8.1.71 ... which you have. The next update will get you to 8.5.xx, then finally, 8.6.44.

However, if you're not getting VBI packets, I don't think you can get the software updates.

What's your zip code and cable provider again?

Where is the "Kick it in the Pants" button??? :D:D:D:D:D


It's right there next to the "Pray to the TVGOS Gods" button. :D

Mark

There aren't any analog OTA broadcasts that carry TVGOS, but some cable companies add TVGOS to an analog channel.

There still are a few analog OTA broadcast stations that carry TVGOS. My Sony and Panasonic DVRs are still using one (XETV). I wouldn't be surprised if you could count the number of such stations on one hand. My Sony DVRs are still running .13 firmware, since I saw no reason to upgrade while still using an along TVGOS host channel.

Yes... and No.
The Clear button acts like the "recycle" that happens after 4.5 days if your host channel is blank, or 3 days if your host channel is set. The "00000" routine will have this same effect, but only if the host channel is blank. I have observed (and I have said this before), that if the host channel is set, the "00000" routine has no effect whatsoever (and I have tried this leaving the DVR off for as little as 5 minutes and up to 30 minutes). Your statment is only true if your host channel is blank. Sorry to be such a stickler for details. ;)




You are right, in a perfect world all of this data would be sent out several times a day, and getting a host channel (and a grid) would not be an issue.

Mark

Well for me then it is "true" 99% of the time; HostChannel is blank. If I do not have HostChannel by prime time today, I will got back to Kick In The Pants once a day primetime ("00000" not used in months and months), for 3 or 4 days and see if that does "anything"........and if still no HostChannel go back to Artec and call it a "year"

Rovi has indirectly "implied" that VBIState is important (on their question list); but they have made no mention of HostSUFlags. And that does make sense to me; since HostSUFlags is reporting after-the-fact events - is that correct? It is "after-the-fact"?

Since the last 5 days or so, I have seen VBIState changing with "each" LastSearchEnd...........such as: 0x03, 0x04, 0x05, 0x06. But the only time I have seen VBIState 0x08 is the times MySonyBox has set HostChannel with with Artec or once with normal HostChannel, and as a result HostSUFlags reported (after-the-fact?) 0xff8. Maybe explained another way. VBIState must be to 0x08 in order for all the correct bits to be set, so HostChannel can be set and thus HostSUFlags reports 0xff8? Conversly, if VBIState never gets to 0x08, HostChannel cannot set?

Is that correct? or should I just go buy a lot of beer now?

......the beer idea is always a good one.....

It sounds like you're set and won't need to do the G* test since you're on the .21 firmware.

Are you on the correct digital channel? The fact that you're not getting VBI data tells me one of two things. 1. That the channel you're tuned into isn't sending digital TVGOS data ... or 2. No one in your area is sending digital TVGOS data. If this is the case, then you may not be able to ever get a grid. One question ... did you wait long enough? On my system, I have to wait about 18 seconds before the VBI data starts flowing. If I press "2", the VBI test will start over and I "Pass".

Keep checking the 753 menu and see if you're getting up to 8.6.44. I believe that the .21 firmware resets the base software version from 8.1.42 to 8.1.71 ... which you have. The next update will get you to 8.5.xx, then finally, 8.6.44.

However, if you're not getting VBI packets, I don't think you can get the software updates.

What's your zip code and cable provider again?

ZIp is 25705 & comcast

Yes, I am on a digital channel "PBS" channel 101.2...in the "753" menu I am getting incremental packets every second or two.


Where I'm on the digital channel I'm not even sure if the G* test info is good or not? I've waited a couple minutes each time & the VBI stays at 0...atsc: pat stays at 1 & ATSC: PMT stays at 5.

I should have had a couple updates last night & the version still says 08.01.71

Edit: on the "753" menu on the first screen it says "08.01.71/08.06.44/00.00.00/0000012C/64/0000"

Still no listings....but it seems like I am on my way......maybe I'm wrong?

ZIp is 25705 & comcast

Yes, I am on a digital channel "PBS" channel 101.2...in the "753" menu I am getting incremental packets every second or two.

Where I'm on the digital channel I'm not even sure if the G* test info is good or not? I've waited a couple minutes each time & the VBI stays at 0...atsc: pat stays at 1 & ATSC: PMT stays at 5.

I should have had a couple updates last night & the version still says 08.01.71

Edit: on the "753" menu on the first screen it says "08.01.71/08.06.44/00.00.00/0000012C/64/0000"

Still no listings....but it seems like I am on my way......maybe I'm wrong?

OK, it looks like your TVGOS software version is fully updated to 8.6.44 ... this is good. As for not getting anything on the G* test, I'm not sure if that's good or bad. I'm not on the .21 firmware, so I get confirmation of VBI data on the G* test.

Recently, my DHG reset itself to 8.1.42 by itself. It took me 3 days to get it back to 8.6.44, however, even when I got it to that state, I didn't have a grid. I had to do the 00000 zip code trick. This might help you out. Try setting the zip code as 00000. You get a message that you need to leave the DVR off for a while. This is the part that murky in my memory. I'm not sure if I was prompted to put in a real zip code, or if I just did it out of frustration, but when I put in my real zip code, I was presented with the normal set-up screens (perhaps I had to wait a few hours). I was able to choose my Comcast lineup, etc.

You might want to look at this link from mattbutra. http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=17088114&postcount=18657

It helped me out.

OK, it looks like your TVGOS software version is fully updated to 8.6.44 ... this is good. As for not getting anything on the G* test, I'm not sure if that's good or bad. I'm not on the .21 firmware, so I get confirmation of VBI data on the G* test.

Recently, my DHG reset itself to 8.1.42 by itself. It took me 3 days to get it back to 8.6.44, however, even when I got it to that state, I didn't have a grid. I had to do the 00000 zip code trick. This might help you out. Try setting the zip code as 00000. You get a message that you need to leave the DVR off for a while. This is the part that murky in my memory. I'm not sure if I was prompted to put in a real zip code, or if I just did it out of frustration, but when I put in my real zip code, I was presented with the normal set-up screens (perhaps I had to wait a few hours). I was able to choose my Comcast lineup, etc.

You might want to look at this link from mattbutra. http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=17088114&postcount=18657

It helped me out.

thank you so much for your help.....I turned it off to catch the 1:46pm download....I'll try that when it finishes...

At this point I have pretty much given up hope that Rovi has any interest in addressing TVGOS service for Houston - regarding the Sony DVR.

All TVGOS devices should be able to set HostChannel in 24 hours; not 2, 3, or 4 months - if ever?

After two months of perfect listings, my packets stopped 8 days ago. This was my first encounter of being left out in the cold. I have VHS tapes, but first I emailed my provider and asked if the disconnect was temporary or permanent. No response after 7 days, but I knew they read my email. So I went up the food chain since that worked for Comcast years ago. My first email to corporate HQ was greeted by a "server full" error. Now that really inspires confidence. However, yesterday corporate HQ read my email. In two hours I had a VOICE mail from my supplier telling me there was an "equipment problem" and it should be fixed in one hour and the outage was NOT permanent. Magic! Packets started and except for one small glich, everything started to rebuild with my usual 200+ packets/minute. I'd bet they just did a reset of the Rovi server.

My point is to not give up until you have touched out to every station and cable service in your area. Keep it nice, but mention words like Tivo & Dish Network. If I can get attention from a tiny cable company, a major market "should" get better support. My best wishes go to your efforts.

My only glich? One out of three DHD units was 60 seconds slow. A power cycle fixed that.

Rovi has indirectly "implied" that VBIState is important (on their question list); but they have made no mention of HostSUFlags. And that does make sense to me; since HostSUFlags is reporting after-the-fact events - is that correct? It is "after-the-fact"?


Yes, the HostSUFlags is like a log of what data has actually been received since the last NumSearch cycle started.


Since the last 5 days or so, I have seen VBIState changing with "each" LastSearchEnd...........such as: 0x03, 0x04, 0x05, 0x06. But the only time I have seen VBIState 0x08 is the times MySonyBox has set HostChannel with with Artec or once with normal HostChannel, and as a result HostSUFlags reported (after-the-fact?) 0xff8. Maybe explained another way. VBIState must be to 0x08 in order for all the correct bits to be set, so HostChannel can be set and thus HostSUFlags reports 0xff8? Conversly, if VBIState never gets to 0x08, HostChannel cannot set?

Is that correct? or should I just go buy a lot of beer now?

I'm curious which of those numbers you reported to the TVGOS people? The way those numbers change I find it hard to believe they could learn anything by knowing what it is at any one moment.

Mark

[...]
Here I have had a blank host since feb. Also nobody has ever built a grid since analog shut off in my area. Maybe the new equipment WINK just installed could change that.
[...]

SS-Stingray


[...]
My host us flags have been since Feb oxe68 . I used your site and the missing data is the three unknows. I was unable to build a grid without a vcr tape that was recorded last Jan before the analog shut off. I think that somebody using the same station in my area did report that he was able to build a grid. His DHG was a 500 and both of mine are 250's. I still get all listing after I built the grid with the tape. Maybe this info will help you.

SS-Stingray

I take it that you haven't seen a change in your data since they installed the new hardware (still no host channel). I really thought after the transition that Rovi would evaluate the data in these problem areas, and fix the data, but I guess they are clueless that there is anything wrong.

Mark

OK, it looks like your TVGOS software version is fully updated to 8.6.44 ... this is good. As for not getting anything on the G* test, I'm not sure if that's good or bad. I'm not on the .21 firmware, so I get confirmation of VBI data on the G* test.

Other people on this forum who updated to the new firmware have reported that the VBI portion of the G*test no longer works on digital channels, so it is not helpful in finding a digital TV guide host channel.

Yes, the HostSUFlags is like a log of what data has actually been received since the last NumSearch cycle started.



I'm curious which of those numbers you reported to the TVGOS people? The way those numbers change I find it hard to believe they could learn anything by knowing what it is at any one moment.

Mark

Rovi had me fill out this standard Ver 8 diag question list. The part that struct me as interesting is the items they were interested in on each page or "not" interested in. For example they had an interest in VBIState, but not HostSUFLags. Keep in mind there was serveral screens of data they were interested.

As far as I can tell, they just put the data in file "13" - I have not heard back from them since?


Mark, conversely what you say is "true".........HostSUFlags it would seem to "tell" Rovi what is missing in MySonyBox because the "bits" are not being "set"? Is that correct?

side note: this morning box still on NumSearch 5, VBI State is on 0x03.........I expect it to be back to 0x05 by noon and stay there (go no further-VBIstate has been rotating through those 3 sets of numbers since Monday?). 0xf78 has not changed since NumSearch 5 started on Monday morning?

I take it that you haven't seen a change in your data since they installed the new hardware (still no host channel). I really thought after the transition that Rovi would evaluate the data in these problem areas, and fix the data, but I guess they are clueless that there is anything wrong.

Mark

Nope no change. Host channel is still blank. Rovi could care less. Without a vcr tape I wouldn't be able to build a grid.

SS-Stingray

Alright...I still have no "listings" but if i do a "search' I can find pretty much anything. But it isn't the correct channel...

I think I have a Charleston line-up with a different cable company rather than the Huntington line-up with Comcast. I changed my zip to one further away from Charleston in hopes this will help.

When I change the channel...all the channels are labled wrong. My CBS channel is labeled as Fox...& it will have the name of the show that is currently playing on Fox listed on the info bar.

Any ideas what is wrong?

Just back from Oahu. See that local PBS 30.1 (21) is now carrying TVGOS. Have full listings. Shows host as 21 (30.1 ). Clock screen shows 19 (46.1) as the fail clock set channel and 30.1 as the set clock channel. In the ASTC slicer screen, it seems like I have some new/changed lines, but will need to take a look at my girlfriends machine to know for sure. She still does not have any TVGOS as she is on Comcast and they have not yet gotten their new equipment installed/setup.
Rovi did send me a couple of Emails while I was gone stating that they found a software bug at WGCL and had expected to have it fixed by Oct 5th. The other reply said they were looking for another broadcaster in the area and that they were also installing equipment for Comcast. Funny thing was the replies were a day apart, with the WGCL one coming after the one in which they were looking for a new broadcast station. Guess that they came from two different techs or departments. Anyway all is working here now as many already know. Just waiting for Comcast to get set back up and then I can reset both of those machines at my girlfriends house since one of them is 2+ hours off.
Michael

Alright...I still have no "listings" but if i do a "search' I can find pretty much anything. But it isn't the correct channel...OK, so to confirm, you have a grid that is full of "No Listing", right? This is OK. It just takes time for the listings to build.

I think I have a Charleston line-up with a different cable company rather than the Huntington line-up with Comcast. I changed my zip to one further away from Charleston in hopes this will help.

When I change the channel...all the channels are labled wrong. My CBS channel is labeled as Fox...& it will have the name of the show that is currently playing on Fox listed on the info bar.

Any ideas what is wrong?It's probably because you're using a different zip code and the cable system that you're using has different channel assignments. If you don't want to mess around with zip codes at this point, you could always use the Setup screen and edit all of your channels with the correct channel numbers. This should fix the channel/label inconsistencies.

If your cable system is going full-digital and you don't have a CableCard, you're going to have to edit the channels anyway.

OK, so to confirm, you have a grid that is full of "No Listing", right? This is OK. It just takes time for the listings to build.
When I go to listings it says "updated information will be available within 24 hours. The guide is rebuiling your channel list based on your setup change."
If I go to the "search" box I can find various things but they are the wrong channel...

It's probably because you're using a different zip code and the cable system that you're using has different channel assignments. If you don't want to mess around with zip codes at this point, you could always use the Setup screen and edit all of your channels with the correct channel numbers. This should fix the channel/label inconsistencies.

If your cable system is going full-digital and you don't have a CableCard, you're going to have to edit the channels anyway.

I am just outside of Huntington & had 25705 as my zip(this is where I am)...so this morning I changed it to 25701 which is actually a Huntington zip.

When I go to set-up & try to "change channel display" it wont let me..it says the "updated info will be available w/in 24 hrs..."

This is what it has said for the last 3-4 days that I've been working on it....

This should be way easier than it is...lol no wonder Sony quit making them.

I'm hoping the Zip Code change fixes things..

Does anyone know if spare parts and sevice manual are available from any other source. I just been told by Sony that my clock problem is due to a defective tuner and parts are no longer available.

When I go to listings it says "updated information will be available within 24 hours. The guide is rebuiling your channel list based on your setup change."
If I go to the "search" box I can find various things but they are the wrong channel...
[...]


Since you can search for shows, and it finds them, I think it is just hiding the grid from you. This trick might work for you. Unplug the DVR from the wall, and then plug it back in. Let it go through its startup process, and then when it is done, turn the DVR back on, and see if the grid is there.

Mark

Does anyone know if spare parts and sevice manual are available from any other source. I just been told by Sony that my clock problem is due to a defective tuner and parts are no longer available.

Try calling these guys directly, they have several of the boards and other misc. parts but they do show the NXT2003 which i believe is the tuner chip as a call. Just enter dhg in the "prefix" box and it will take you to the page.

https://servicesplus.us.sony.biz/PartsPlusResults.aspx?stype=parts

sorry that link should take you directly to the page. It's funny they charge 71 cents for the firmware upgrade.

Try calling these guys directly, they have several of the boards and other misc. parts but they do show the NXT2003 which i believe is the tuner chip as a call. Just enter dhg in the "prefix" box and it will take you to the page.

https://servicesplus.us.sony.biz/PartsPlusResults.aspx?stype=parts

sorry that link should take you directly to the page. It's funny they charge 71 cents for the firmware upgrade.
Thanks for your response. Let me ask you what you think about my problem. My clock will not set to the correct time and of course no guide. I have two 250's and I updated the firmware when it came available. One unit came up but this one didn't I tried the restores and anything on the site. Do you think the tuner could be the problem as I could pickup all stations OTA.

Thanks for your response. Let me ask you what you think about my problem. My clock will not set to the correct time and of course no guide. I have two 250's and I updated the firmware when it came available. One unit came up but this one didn't I tried the restores and anything on the site. Do you think the tuner could be the problem as I could pickup all stations OTA.
If your tuner is picking up stations, then it should not be the problem in setting the clock. In fact, the clock set is through the TVGOS system and not the unit. This has been discussed here lately as to those who had lost TVGOS in the Atlanta area. No TVGOS, no clock info. Do you have a grid? Have you check your 753....screens to see if you have a host and clock set channels?
Michael

If your tuner is picking up stations, then it should not be the problem in setting the clock. In fact, the clock set is through the TVGOS system and not the unit. This has been discussed here lately as to those who had lost TVGOS in the Atlanta area. No TVGOS, no clock info. Do you have a grid? Have you check your 753....screens to see if you have a host and clock set channels?
Michael

Eddie39,

I agree with what AtlantisMichael says here. Two other things to look at... is the clock in the upper left corner of the 753 menu screen correct? It should be 5 hours later than your local time. Also check the 'offset (sec) from UTC' field on the 'Clocks 1' screen (two screens down from the first one in the 753 menu). It should be -18000 (for eastern time). If it has some other number in that field (or it's blank), then your DVR needs to get a timezone packet before it can set the front panel clock.

Mark

Since you can search for shows, and it finds them, I think it is just hiding the grid from you. This trick might work for you. Unplug the DVR from the wall, and then plug it back in. Let it go through its startup process, and then when it is done, turn the DVR back on, and see if the grid is there.

Mark

Unplugged it last night & still the same results this morning....for some reason all the channels are labeled for the Charleston lineup with Suddenlink...Im in Huntington with Comcast.

Do I need to reset it or something? I changed zip codes from further away from Charleston..:confused:

This is extremely aggravating...but thank you for your help.

Eddie39,

I agree with what AtlantisMichael says here. Two other things to look at... is the clock in the upper left corner of the 753 menu screen correct? It should be 5 hours later than your local time. Also check the 'offset (sec) from UTC' field on the 'Clocks 1' screen (two screens down from the first one in the 753 menu). It should be -18000 (for eastern time). If it has some other number in that field (or it's blank), then your DVR needs to get a timezone packet before it can set the front panel clock.

Mark

Mark,

Thanks to all for your response. The unit is on its way back from Sony's Texas service center and as soon as I get it back I will let you know my findings.

Note: Clock ran randon and no grid.

Eddie

Unplugged it last night & still the same results this morning....for some reason all the channels are labeled for the Charleston lineup with Suddenlink...Im in Huntington with Comcast.

Do I need to reset it or something? I changed zip codes from further away from Charleston..:confused:

This is extremely aggravating...but thank you for your help.

Do you have the correct time on your DHG????

Have you gotten a grid yet? If so, is it full of "No Listing" blocks? Or is it just in the Search window that you're seeing programs?

Also, have you tried doing using 00000 as the zip code?

My DVR will not output anything through the HDMI output. I have tried resetting it, leaving it unplugged for several days, and I still have nothing. I notice in a previous post that someone had the same problem but I did not see a solution. It will not even display the menu screen and the TV does not seem to "see" a signal. Has anyone had the same problem and if you did then what did you do to fix it?


Thanks.


Msmith56

Hello All:
Just an update re my situation in Rhode Island / New England area. Using a 500 for few years now. Prepared the firmware update and purchased a thumb drive to make it happen. Prior to updating, per info from this forum I ran a "g" test after tuning to the local Boston CBS station (4.1 OTA). VBI data passed and 2 types of packets also received. Since doing this - unit has worked just fine - without updating the firmware.

I know am in right place - because if the unit hiccups/ or hangs without responding to remote or onboard controls - I do a warm reset with unit presserving any recorded items, etc. and clock if initially off will promptly correct if I tune to 4.1 and run "g".
Just want to thank you all for the helpful info - am sure there must be many others who likewise have been helped by this forum and it's knowledgeable contributors.
Barry Levy

Do you have the correct time on your DHG????

Have you gotten a grid yet? If so, is it full of "No Listing" blocks? Or is it just in the Search window that you're seeing programs?

Also, have you tried doing using 00000 as the zip code?

Yes the time is correct.

When you say grid I'm assuming you mean "listing" I dont have listings...the search window if i look for sports ect...it will find things...yes...but all my channels are labeled wrong.

Under the listings it still says "updated information will be available within 24 hours. The guide is rebuiling your channel list based on your setup change."

I tried the 00000 zip code...how long should I leave it like that? I think last time I did it in the morning & it should have received a download...then I checked it n changed it to the correct zip since it didn't work.

Yes the time is correct.

When you say grid I'm assuming you mean "listing" I dont have listings...the search window if i look for sports ect...it will find things...yes...but all my channels are labeled wrong.

Under the listings it still says "updated information will be available within 24 hours. The guide is rebuiling your channel list based on your setup change."

I tried the 00000 zip code...how long should I leave it like that? I think last time I did it in the morning & it should have received a download...then I checked it n changed it to the correct zip since it didn't work.
Did you just get this unit? Or have you had it and been using it just OTA till you got Comcast?
The grid is where all the channels and listings appear when you select the TV guide button. Listings are those shows in the grid. If you have a grid, it will have the channels to the left with the time at the top for the selected day and all the shows/with details inside of those grid lines.
The zip reset to 00000 is normally a 5 minute reset.
If you are on cable, then at some point you should get a screen that will ask you to choose your cable system, if there are multiple ones there.
Michael

Found your post on OTA, so that answers that part, but how long have you had this unit?
You should have gotten a screen in the TV guide set that gives you cable choices for your area.

Yes the time is correct.

When you say grid I'm assuming you mean "listing" I dont have listings...the search window if i look for sports ect...it will find things...yes...but all my channels are labeled wrong.

Under the listings it still says "updated information will be available within 24 hours. The guide is rebuiling your channel list based on your setup change."

I tried the 00000 zip code...how long should I leave it like that? I think last time I did it in the morning & it should have received a download...then I checked it n changed it to the correct zip since it didn't work.

Let's assume you have used a zipcode that is in your time zone. That means your clock will set and you have TVGOS data. Diagnostics will tell you what host channel is giving you packets. As a cable only person, I can only get listings when I enter a zipcode that my provider services. A switch to 00000 for 5 minutes will flush my listings and lineup. Go back to reality and see what channel is your host, then while tuned to that channel, run the 9012 test to see how many packets/minute are coming through. I say again, this is a CABLE ONLY test. For OTA listen to other more experienced people on the forum. I get 200+ packets using .13 firmware per minute. If you are getting 50 or so packets per minute after setting the right zip code, try again after 6 or more hours. My cable supplier has two lineups, and after a reset I always get asked to choose. If I enter a zip code 10 miles away serviced by the same company from a different office I will never get a lineup. Read back through older messages to see the relationship between time zone, zipcode, and lineups.

It doesn't sound like you are ready to give up. But there are almost 20,000 postings on this thread. Read a few every day.

Did you just get this unit? Or have you had it and been using it just OTA till you got Comcast?
The grid is where all the channels and listings appear when you select the TV guide button. Listings are those shows in the grid. If you have a grid, it will have the channels to the left with the time at the top for the selected day and all the shows/with details inside of those grid lines.
The zip reset to 00000 is normally a 5 minute reset.
If you are on cable, then at some point you should get a screen that will ask you to choose your cable system, if there are multiple ones there.
Michael

Found your post on OTA, so that answers that part, but how long have you had this unit?
You should have gotten a screen in the TV guide set that gives you cable choices for your area.

I used it for OTA at my apt...& I lost my "listings" after the transition in June. I just took it to my g/fs Apt where she has Comcast & we will get more use out of it.

I dont have a grid then....when I go to the guide I have a box that pops up & at the top it has "listings, search, setup, schedule, recordings" It has 1 or 2 ads down in the bottom left corner...

As far as I know there aren't 2 providers...in Charleston there is Suddenlink...& Huntington there is Comcast...1 in each market. The box is in Huntington w/Comcast, but for some reason all the channels are labled for "suddenlink's" channels...It has never been hooked up to cable before.

Let's assume you have used a zipcode that is in your time zone. That means your clock will set and you have TVGOS data. Diagnostics will tell you what host channel is giving you packets. As a cable only person, I can only get listings when I enter a zipcode that my provider services. A switch to 00000 for 5 minutes will flush my listings and lineup. Go back to reality and see what channel is your host, then while tuned to that channel, run the 9012 test to see how many packets/minute are coming through. I say again, this is a CABLE ONLY test. For OTA listen to other more experienced people on the forum. I get 200+ packets using .13 firmware per minute. If you are getting 50 or so packets per minute after setting the right zip code, try again after 6 or more hours. My cable supplier has two lineups, and after a reset I always get asked to choose. If I enter a zip code 10 miles away serviced by the same company from a different office I will never get a lineup. Read back through older messages to see the relationship between time zone, zipcode, and lineups.

It doesn't sound like you are ready to give up. But there are almost 20,000 postings on this thread. Read a few every day.

I'll try that...I upgraded to the .21 though so the G* test doesn't work for me...atleast I dont get info. Will it give me the same info in the "753159852" menu? I've done it & get incremental increases...never watched to see how much.

I'll try that...I upgraded to the .21 though so the G* test doesn't work for me...atleast I dont get info. Will it give me the same info in the "753159852" menu? I've done it & get incremental increases...never watched to see how much.

Out of curiosity, what TV do you have? And please tell me you don't have a STB that converts all your channels. As for 753.... go to Section-Other Clocks2 and what is your clock set channel?

I used it for OTA at my apt...& I lost my "listings" after the transition in June. I just took it to my g/fs Apt where she has Comcast & we will get more use out of it.

I dont have a grid then....when I go to the guide I have a box that pops up & at the top it has "listings, search, setup, schedule, recordings" It has 1 or 2 ads down in the bottom left corner...

As far as I know there aren't 2 providers...in Charleston there is Suddenlink...& Huntington there is Comcast...1 in each market. The box is in Huntington w/Comcast, but for some reason all the channels are labled for "suddenlink's" channels...It has never been hooked up to cable before.
You said you tried all the resets and such, even back to factory where it would have been like new out of the box?
"the guide is rebuilding " message usually means that either you made a change to the system ( new channel complete scan) or that the cable company has reworked their line up. It is still possible that in your zip area/ geographic location that you would get more than one choice of cable providers. Not sure how TVGOS sets all this up, but I am OTA only and my units have over 500 channels in the editor. Have you looked in the channel editor to see if there is anything there. If a search will pull up results, one reasons that you should be able to go into your channel editor and find all your channels.
The only other solution I can see is a complete factory reset where everything is reset back to like new out of the box. Then start from stratch with the setup and cable only scan. I assume that you no longer are using an antenna? That you have re-run the setup (TVGOS)from stratch and only selected cable as the input( if not using antenna).
Michael

Out of curiosity, what TV do you have? And please tell me you don't have a STB that converts all your channels. As for 753.... go to Section-Other Clocks2 and what is your clock set channel?
Panasonic th50pz85u....no STB, cable from the wall into a splitter, 1 to tv 1 to Sony DVR. I'm not there at the moment...but I'll check...

You said you tried all the resets and such, even back to factory where it would have been like new out of the box?
"the guide is rebuilding " message usually means that either you made a change to the system ( new channel complete scan) or that the cable company has reworked their line up. It is still possible that in your zip area/ geographic location that you would get more than one choice of cable providers. Not sure how TVGOS sets all this up, but I am OTA only and my units have over 500 channels in the editor. Have you looked in the channel editor to see if there is anything there. If a search will pull up results, one reasons that you should be able to go into your channel editor and find all your channels.

The only reset I tried was the 00000 zip...didn't know whether to reset to factory or not...It wont allow me to go to the channel editor...goes back to the "building channel lineup may take 24 hour thing.."
The only other solution I can see is a complete factory reset where everything is reset back to like new out of the box. Then start from stratch with the setup and cable only scan. I assume that you no longer are using an antenna? That you have re-run the setup (TVGOS)from stratch and only selected cable as the input( if not using antenna).
Michael

Yes...no antenna only cable...I did the channel scan & did the setup thing under the guide where I set the zip & it asks if you have cable hooked up & antenna hooked up. (only selected cable)

Do i need to do the rest to factory default? Or reformat hard drive?

Panasonic th50pz85u....no STB, cable from the wall into a splitter, 1 to tv 1 to Sony DVR. I'm not there at the moment...but I'll check...

Do i need to do the rest to factory default? Or reformat hard drive?

Nice TV and the channels may or may not match the DHD. I have a Sony TV so they match. No need to reformat the HD since it's done by a factory reset. You may be "confusing" the DHD since a power off does not lose the lineup. I would do the TVG factory reset. You get there from the 9012 entry and there is no "are you sure?" prompt. Your DHD may have data saved that is causing conflicts with your cable. Also, you are too far away to shoot me if it doesn't help. I bought one of my Sony's from the midwest and it was almost useless until I did a full reset. You can get the .13 update from SpiffSpace and use the same USB drive to hold both updates; just realize only the folder called SONY will be used. I keep both updates on one flash drive. I loaded the .21 from Sony and found I could not use it. I simply reloaded the .13 back. No factory reset needed for that change. My seemingly unique situation makes my Sonys believe that NBC HD is on channel 84.1401 and that's doesn't work with the .21 update.

On your TV, what is the channel number of NBC HD or SD? Just curious.

The Sony DHD-HDD250 is not just a great DVR, it's a hobby. Same with my LG LST-3410A. Good luck and best wishes.

Out of curiosity, what TV do you have? And please tell me you don't have a STB that converts all your channels. As for 753.... go to Section-Other Clocks2 and what is your clock set channel?

i have a "section other clocks1" but no 2, I didn't see anything on there about a "clock set channel"

On your TV, what is the channel number of NBC HD or SD? Just curious.

Channel 4 is SD NBC & 73-1 is NBCHD the sony box is the same except 73.1 instead of 73-1

About to do my factory reset...wish me luck!

i have a "section other clocks1" but no 2, I didn't see anything on there about a "clock set channel"

To get to the 'Clocks 2' screen scroll down to 'Clocks 1', and then scroll to the right.

Mark

To get to the 'Clocks 2' screen scroll down to 'Clocks 1', and then scroll to the right.

Mark

Thank you...

After my factory reset it says "1:101-2"

What version is the best .13 or .21? I am using cable only....

I think with my factory reset it went back to .13 but I'm not sure.

Thank you...

After my factory reset it says "1:101-2"

What version is the best .13 or .21? I am using cable only....

I think with my factory reset it went back to .13 but I'm not sure.

Did you do the 'Restore Factory Default' in the top level 9012 menu, or did you go into the 'TV Guide' sub menu (where you run the G* Factory test), and do the 'Reset to Factory Defaults'? Restore Factory Default wipes you back to your original firmware, whereas Reset to Factory Defaults does not.

If you leave it at .13, you'll have to run the G* Test after each patch loads, before it will go any farther. If it is .21, you can just leave it alone.

Mark

Did you do the 'Restore Factory Default' in the top level 9012 menu, or did you go into the 'TV Guide' sub menu (where you run the G* Factory test), and do the 'Reset to Factory Defaults'? Restore Factory Default wipes you back to your original firmware, whereas Reset to Factory Defaults does not.

If you leave it at .13, you'll have to run the G* Test after each patch loads, before it will go any farther. If it is .21, you can just leave it alone.

Mark

I did "restore factory default" under the 9012 menu

Thats the only difference between the 2? There is no reason to stay with .13?

I've Run the G* test twice now....this time the VBI went up twice as fast....I really dont know what I'm looking for though...can you point me in the right direction?

Edit: I just upgraded to .21 so I don't guess it matters anymore

Channel 4 is SD NBC & 73-1 is NBCHD the sony box is the same except 73.1 instead of 73-1

About to do my factory reset...wish me luck!


You seem to already have your share of luck since you are receiving your clock on a digital channel. I would wonder if channel 4 is SD or analog. But that's not a discussion for this forum. And since you have gone back to .21, I'll leave you alone. But, since I'm curious, what is on channel 101.2?

You seem to already have your share of luck since you are receiving your clock on a digital channel. I would wonder if channel 4 is SD or analog. But that's not a discussion for this forum. And since you have gone back to .21, I'll leave you alone. But, since I'm curious, what is on channel 101.2?

I need all the luck I can get! 101.2 is PBS

My Sony DHG-HDD500 grid was filled with "No Listing"... So, after reading thru posts, I thought the unit needed a firmware upgrade to get the program listings via Digital Channels.

I am in the CLEVELAND, OH market... Zip = 44202

I performed the FACTORY RESET - and upgraded Firmware to 1.2.21. I have found that I can get VBI packets when tuned to channel 25-1. VBI Packets continue to increment on the 753 ATSC Slicer screen

I have been leaving the unit OFF and tuned to 25-1 (albeit, that I turned it on and checked a few times) and I still don't have a GRID... but I do have the ADVERTS on the left side of the TV Guide menu.

My HOST CHANNEL is still blank... and I don't think I have had a Host Channel since I performed the Factory Reset and 1.2.21 version upgrade.

My version is listed as: 08.01.71/08.06.44
Failing Clock = 25-1
Clock Set = 26-0

Under Section Reception Slicing
All the HostChan and Curr Chan column data = 0
SinceCold shows:
Starts = 3
Ends=1
Drops=1
BadPMW=1
CErrs=1
All other values = 0

Under Reception VBI Stats
TotFrTape = 0
2x / Gemstar / Enabled Lines= 0x0

My HostSUFlags did get to 0xf78 .. but not it has been reset and my HostSUFlags is back to 0x000.

QUESTIONS:
Can anyone confirm that 25-1 OTA is the "right" channel for Cleveland, OH (Zip = 44202) in order for me to have the best chance to retrieve my grid and channel listings?? Is there anyone in the Cleveland area (Time Warner Cable) that's gotten this to work??

If I am getting the ADVERTS updating ... I assume that means there IS a TVGOS signal getting to the unit. What is preventing me from getting a GRID and LISTINGS??

Other than continuing to WAIT and WAIT... is there any other recommendation??

Would it make sense to get an ARTEC T3APR-T unit... and does anyone have on they are willing to part with??

Would I need the ARTEC only to get the GRID to recover... or would I need it always connected from this point on??

Thanks to anyone and all that can help!!!

LesMan you're in the same boat as me except I'm on cable...I'm at the same point with my update, I have ads but no grid...

according to this link that is your host channel..

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

LesMan you're in the same boat as me except I'm on cable...I'm at the same point with my update, I have ads but no grid...

according to this link that is your host channel..

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

I have BOTH the OverTheAir (OTA - Antenna) and CABLE connections hooked up and enabled.

Are you in the Cleveland area? Have you tried calling PBS / CBS / TWC??

My Sony DHG-HDD500 grid was filled with "No Listing"... So, after reading thru posts, I thought the unit needed a firmware upgrade to get the program listings via Digital Channels.

I am in the CLEVELAND, OH market... Zip = 44202

I performed the FACTORY RESET - and upgraded Firmware to 1.2.21. I have found that I can get VBI packets when tuned to channel 25-1. VBI Packets continue to increment on the 753 ATSC Slicer screen

I have been leaving the unit OFF and tuned to 25-1 (albeit, that I turned it on and checked a few times) and I still don't have a GRID... but I do have the ADVERTS on the left side of the TV Guide menu.

My HOST CHANNEL is still blank... and I don't think I have had a Host Channel since I performed the Factory Reset and 1.2.21 version upgrade.

My version is listed as: 08.01.71/08.06.44
Failing Clock = 25-1
Clock Set = 26-0

Under Section Reception Slicing
All the HostChan and Curr Chan column data = 0
SinceCold shows:
Starts = 3
Ends=1
Drops=1
BadPMW=1
CErrs=1
All other values = 0

Under Reception VBI Stats
TotFrTape = 0
2x / Gemstar / Enabled Lines= 0x0

My HostSUFlags did get to 0xf78 .. but not it has been reset and my HostSUFlags is back to 0x000.

QUESTIONS:
Can anyone confirm that 25-1 OTA is the "right" channel for Cleveland, OH (Zip = 44202) in order for me to have the best chance to retrieve my grid and channel listings?? Is there anyone in the Cleveland area (Time Warner Cable) that's gotten this to work??

If I am getting the ADVERTS updating ... I assume that means there IS a TVGOS signal getting to the unit. What is preventing me from getting a GRID and LISTINGS??

Other than continuing to WAIT and WAIT... is there any other recommendation??

Would it make sense to get an ARTEC T3APR-T unit... and does anyone have on they are willing to part with??

Would I need the ARTEC only to get the GRID to recover... or would I need it always connected from this point on??

Thanks to anyone and all that can help!!!
I had 2 250's when i did the upgrade to the .21 one came up ok,the other one never showed any tvg. so i went to listing,menu and edit channels. for some reason all the channels where turned off,I turned them on and they started to come up after that,and ever thing is fine now.Hope this might Help

I had 2 250's when i did the upgrade to the .21 one came up ok,the other one never showed any tvg. so i went to listing,menu and edit channels. for some reason all the channels where turned off,I turned them on and they started to come up after that,and ever thing is fine now.Hope this might Help
I gave that a shot... but unfortunately, there are NO CHANNELS to choose from (at all).
When I click on Listing, Menu, Edit Channels ... it just takes me back to the SETUP option in the service bar.

... other ideas??

I gave that a shot... but unfortunately, there are NO CHANNELS to choose from (at all).
When I click on Listing, Menu, Edit Channels ... it just takes me back to the SETUP option in the service bar.

... other ideas??
First I would call the station and ask to speak to the chief Engineer and make sure they where getting the signial out{we had a terrible problem in Atlanta for a month}If they are,I would take my cable loose and scan for ota only,to see what Happens.There are some really smart people here,sooner or later someone will know what you need,good luck and try not to go crazy it will get on your nerves sometime

What is preventing me from getting a GRID and LISTINGS??
That can only be answered by ROVI.

Other than continuing to WAIT and WAIT... is there any other recommendation??
I went thru all this last spring. Your first mistake was doing the factory reset.

Would it make sense to get an ARTEC T3APR-T unit... and does anyone have on they are willing to part with??
That is probably your only option to recover your grid.

Would I need the ARTEC only to get the GRID to recover... or would I need it always connected from this point on??
Once you get the grid you can put the Artec back in the box.

Thanks to anyone and all that can help!!!

Some people have recovered the grid in certain markets. I was unable to do that in SW Florida with my OTA siginal. Sony told me it will take 30 days to get the grid but I was never able to do so. I recovered my grid from a vcr tape recorded of the analog vbi. If you need to get the dhg up asap , bite the bullet and buy the artec. Other wise you seem to be getting data since you have ads . People here didn't believe me when I stated that the .21 firmware won't build a grid in an ota situation. Yet some markets people have recovered. I haven't had analog data in 8 months and never get a host channel but yet I get all listing just fine.

Good Luck
SS-Stingray

Would I need the ARTEC only to get the GRID to recover... or would I need it always connected from this point on??

I used a Dish DTVPal+ at one point to get a grid on my Sonys. After I got the grid, I was able to disconnect the DTVPal+ and get nightly program listings directly from the antenna. I'm OTA only, no cable. You can see my procedure here:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=16808127#post16808127

With the Artec, the procedure should be the same, except that you do not need a specially-configured remote control to change channels on the Artec after you put it in TVGOS mode. You can use the Artec remote for this. So you can ignore the stuff about the "Scientific Atlanta" remote in my instructions.

Also, since you're mainly using cable, you need to modify my instructions accordingly as far as connecting the Artec is concerned.

If your tuner is picking up stations, then it should not be the problem in setting the clock. In fact, the clock set is through the TVGOS system and not the unit. This has been discussed here lately as to those who had lost TVGOS in the Atlanta area. No TVGOS, no clock info. Do you have a grid? Have you check your 753....screens to see if you have a host and clock set channels?
Michael

My DVR has been connect for 24 hours, in the off position and this is my findings after first doing a setup and scanning for OTA channels. I pickup 7 channels including PBS 16.1/44 digital which carries the TVGOS signal:

783...screens

First screen
10/13/2009 13:04[3] EDT 11:04AM -4 hours not -5 hours. Same as my other 250 thats working corectly.
08.01.71/08.06.44

Statistics
Host ID 0XFFFF
Host Channel - Blank
VBI Channel 16.1 (44)

Clock 1
Time Zone Element 0
Time Zone Version 0
Offset (sec) from UTC -182453673 not -18000

Clock 2
Fail clock channel 0:44-0
Clock set channel 0:44-0
16-1 is digital 44

Note: the clock on the front panel show the same time as on the first screen.

Comcast did another QAM channel swap in my area, so I had to go in and remap a bunch of channels.

Basically, they moved channels 75.x and 76.x to 105.x and 106.x ... it was a straight substitution.

The neat thing I learned was when I switched 75.1 to 105.1, all of the other 75.x channels switched to 105.x.

Same with 76 to 106. So in the end, I swapped 24 channels for the price of 2.

783...screens

First screen
10/13/2009 13:04[3] EDT 11:04AM -4 hours not -5 hours. Same as my other 250 thats working corectly.
08.01.71/08.06.44



753 menu clock is correct so it isn't a problem with that clock.


Clock 1
Time Zone Element 0
Time Zone Version 0
Offset (sec) from UTC -182453673 not -18000

Clock 2
Fail clock channel 0:44-0
Clock set channel 0:44-0
16-1 is digital 44


You have to recieve a timezone packet before the clock 1 screen will show -18000. So this is normal for now.


Note: the clock on the front panel show the same time as on the first screen.

Since your front panel clock is the same time as the 753 screen, this tells me that the system is able to update your front panel clock. I would say that your problems are not clock related, and I have no idea why Sony would think that they are.

Mark

753 menu clock is correct so it isn't a problem with that clock.



You have to recieve a timezone packet before the clock 1 screen will show -18000. So this is normal for now.



Since your front panel clock is the same time as the 753 screen, this tells me that the system is able to update your front panel clock. I would say that your problems are not clock related, and I have no idea why Sony would think that they are.

Mark

So whats my next step? Just wait it out.

So whats my next step? Just wait it out.

The next step is to wait for a timezone packet. You mentioned previously that you have 2 of these, and after upgrading both, one recovered, and the other one didn't. What condition were the two units in when you upgraded them? Were they both without a correct clock, and no grid? Did one or the other have a grid that was filled with no listings?

Mark

The next step is to wait for a timezone packet. You mentioned previously that you have 2 of these, and after upgrading both, one recovered, and the other one didn't. What condition were the two units in when you upgraded them? Were they both without a correct clock, and no grid? Did one or the other have a grid that was filled with no listings?

Mark

Mark

First I want to thank you for your help.

I upgraded to .21 on both units before PBS started transmitting the guide digitally. But when the started one unit came up and the other didn't. Neither one had correct clock or grid after the .21 upgrade. I basiically left both of them alone until I knew the guide was back up. Before the analog shut down both units worked without any problems.

Mark

First I want to thank you for your help.

I upgraded to .21 on both units before PBS started transmitting the guide digitally. But when the started one unit came up and the other didn't. Neither one had correct clock or grid after the .21 upgrade. I basiically left both of them alone until I knew the guide was back up. Before the analog shut down both units worked without any problems.

I just want to make sure that when you got this unit back from Sony, that you went through theTVGOS setup, and entered your correct zip code?

Also, while you're waiting... On the unit that is working, go into the 753 menu. Then go 3 screens up. You should be in the VBI Info screen. Look at the third field down from the top on the right hand side. This is the LastASetEnd field. What date is in that field? This field holds the last date that the host channel set. If it is only a few days ago, then I think you are in good shape. If it is a few weeks old, then you could be in for a long wait. You might look at the value of the HostSUFlags field while you are there also (right side, second one up from the bottom).

Mark

I just want to make sure that when you got this unit back from Sony, that you went through theTVGOS setup, and entered your correct zip code?

Also, while you're waiting... On the unit that is working, go into the 753 menu. Then go 3 screens up. You should be in the VBI Info screen. Look at the third field down from the top on the right hand side. This is the LastASetEnd field. What date is in that field? This field holds the last date that the host channel set. If it is only a few days ago, then I think you are in good shape. If it is a few weeks old, then you could be in for a long wait. You might look at the value of the HostSUFlags field while you are there also (right side, second one up from the bottom).

Mark
I did the complete setup when I installed it yesterday and also a front panel reset. Statistics screen shows correct zip code.

I find this interesting on the working 250. The LastASetEnd show N/A and the HostSuFlags shows 0X80000000. The only ad is the TV Guide one on the guide screen. I have it to record a show each day with no problems. I have guide seven days out. All this on the working 250.

I did the complete setup when I installed it yesterday and also a front panel reset. Statistics screen shows correct zip code.

I find this interesting on the working 250. The LastASetEnd show N/A and the HostSuFlags shows 0X80000000. The only ad is the TV Guide one on the guide screen. I have it to record a show each day with no problems. I have guide seven days out. All this on the working 250.

Hmmmm... that doesn't sound good. Here's another thing to look at on the good one. Go back to the 753 menu, and up one screen. This is the Reset Info-Statistics screen. Look at the date on the first line (Power On). This is the date of the last reset. Basically your host channel has not set since that date. I would also look at the HostSUFlags again, and see if it has changed from 0x80000000.

Mark

Hmmmm... that doesn't sound good. Here's another thing to look at on the good one. Go back to the 753 menu, and up one screen. This is the Reset Info-Statistics screen. Look at the date on the first line (Power On). This is the date of the last reset. Basically your host channel has not set since that date. I would also look at the HostSUFlags again, and see if it has changed from 0x80000000.

Mark

That the same screen that was there in August. I took pictures of the working 250 screens. I checked the same screen on this 250 and its the same. Is it possible they having a problem and the working 250 was able to receive a time pack before the problem?

That the same screen that was there in August. I took pictures of the working 250 screens. I checked the same screen on this 250 and its the same. Is it possible they having a problem and the working 250 was able to receive a time pack before the problem?

Yes, it is possible the working DVR picked up a timezone packet when things were working. It would have to get one in order to get a grid.

Earlier you posted this:

Statistics
Host ID 0XFFFF
Host Channel - Blank
VBI Channel 16.1 (44)


Is your Host ID (on both DVRs) really 0xFFFF? According to rabbitears.info, channel 7 out of Charleston also transmit TVGOS data. Is there any way you can get that station?

Mark

I have had the Sony DHG HDD 500 since July of 2005. I have it connected to a Sony 34XBR960 Direct view TV (which also has a built in PIP HD tuner)with the HDMI cable through the HDMI input on my TV. I have cable cards installed in both pieces of equpment and have Cox as my provider for digital service. I have really had no problems exception the weirdest thing happened last night for the very first time while I was trying to tune to TNTHD, LOGO, and FITTV through the DVR. I got the following message on the monitor - "This program is not available when connected to HDMI or DVI equipped monitor. You may change channel or use the Component or SD video outputs." I had never gotten this message prior to last night and when I tried to view the same channels on my Sony tv, there was no problem. I went back to try to tune these channels again on the HDD 500 and the same message displayed with no video. Only on these three channels. So, I checked all the cables and after turning everything off and back on it worked again, and that
message didn't appear again! Could it have been that the TV and the DVR were having a problem with HDCP? Except they're both HDCP compliant. Has anyone had a similar thing happen?

yes but mine didn't go away, and its on most channels, how did you fix it?

Yes, it is possible the working DVR picked up a timezone packet when things were working. It would have to get one in order to get a grid.

Earlier you posted this:


Is your Host ID (on both DVRs) really 0xFFFF? According to rabbitears.info, channel 7 out of Charleston also transmit TVGOS data. Is there any way you can get that station?

Mark

Mark,

Charleston is digital channel 7. My CM 4228 antenna is only UHF and 60 miles away, I don't think it could be a problem. WJWJ is my local PBS station about 16 miles from me. Here are my findings on both units with channel set at 16-1 (44).

Working 250 Non-working 250
13:06 Panel 9:06AM 13:16 Panel 1:16PM

System Statistics
Host State 0X80 0X80
Host ID 0X0 0XFFFF
Host Channel Blank Blank
VBI Channel 016-1 016-1

Clock1
Time Zone Element 16 0
Time Zone Version 152 0
Offset UTC -18000 -182453673
Next DST Trans 11/1/09 6:00 N/A

Clock2
Failing Clock Channel 0:44-0 0:44-0
Clock Set Channel 0:44-0 0:44-0

VBI Info
LastASetEnd N/A N/A
HostSuFlags 0X80000000 0X80000000
LastClkSet 10/10/09 22:39 10/15/09 18:17

Rest Info Statistics
Power On 10/10/09 22:39 10/15/09 18:17

The working 250 shows power on when I changed out a power strip. Unit came up normal.

Thanks
Eddie

Mark,
[...]
Here are my findings on both units with channel set at 16-1 (44).

Working 250 Non-working 250

System Statistics
Host State 0X80 0X80
Host ID 0X0 0XFFFF
Host Channel Blank Blank
VBI Channel 016-1 016-1

VBI Info
LastASetEnd N/A N/A
HostSuFlags 0X80000000 0X80000000
LastClkSet 10/10/09 22:39 10/15/09 18:17



It is my opinion that the host id on both units is invalid. I believe both your units are acting like they are set to the wrong zip code (I realize they are not). Despite having a local PBS station transmitting the TVGOS data, it seems this data does not belong to your zip code (sort of a guess).

Here is what I want you to do. Change your zip code from what it is, to 31322. This is a Savannah, GA zip code. My reasoning is that your station is listed under Savannah on rabbitears.info.com (it's also listed under Charleston, SC). After changing the zip code leave the DVR off for an hour or two. Then turn it back on, and go look at the HostSUFlags value, and see if it is still 0x80000000. If it is still that value, then this didn't work, and you can switch the zip code back (or you can switch the zip code to 29401, which is a Charleston zip and try it again). However, if it has progressed, and that '8' has changed to either c, d, e, or f, then leave it set to that zip code for a few days. If it has progressed, your host id should be set to 0x65 (for Savannah).

Mark

It is my opinion that the host id on both units is invalid. I believe both your units are acting like they are set to the wrong zip code (I realize they are not). Despite having a local PBS station transmitting the TVGOS data, it seems this data does not belong to your zip code (sort of a guess).

Here is what I want you to do. Change your zip code from what it is, to 31322. This is a Savannah, GA zip code. My reasoning is that your station is listed under Savannah on rabbitears.info.com (it's also listed under Charleston, SC). After changing the zip code leave the DVR off for an hour or two. Then turn it back on, and go look at the HostSUFlags value, and see if it is still 0x80000000. If it is still that value, then this didn't work, and you can switch the zip code back (or you can switch the zip code to 29401, which is a Charleston zip and try it again). However, if it has progressed, and that '8' has changed to either c, d, e, or f, then leave it set to that zip code for a few days. If it has progressed, your host id should be set to 0x65 (for Savannah).

Mark
Done, I will let you know what I find.

Mark,

Charleston is digital channel 7. My CM 4228 antenna is only UHF and 60 miles away, I don't think it could be a problem. WJWJ is my local PBS station about 16 miles from me. Here are my findings on both units with channel set at 16-1 (44).

Working 250 Non-working 250
13:06 Panel 9:06AM 13:16 Panel 1:16PM

System Statistics
Host State 0X80 0X80
Host ID 0X0 0XFFFF
Host Channel Blank Blank
VBI Channel 016-1 016-1

Clock1
Time Zone Element 16 0
Time Zone Version 152 0
Offset UTC -18000 -182453673
Next DST Trans 11/1/09 6:00 N/A

Clock2
Failing Clock Channel 0:44-0 0:44-0
Clock Set Channel 0:44-0 0:44-0

VBI Info
LastASetEnd N/A N/A
HostSuFlags 0X80000000 0X80000000
LastClkSet 10/10/09 22:39 10/15/09 18:17

Rest Info Statistics
Power On 10/10/09 22:39 10/15/09 18:17

The working 250 shows power on when I changed out a power strip. Unit came up normal.

Thanks
Eddie

I've been following this a little and I know Mark is assisting you (his advice is always very good). From looking at the times and values you posted, I don't think the "working" unit is updating right now either. Mark, did you notice? The Time Zone Version of 152 is from last Sat. the 10th. Also the LastClkSet is the same as the Power On date and time. So no TZ packets or clock sets since Sat. along with the problem of no HostID or Host Channel. FWIW, I get around 14 clock sets per day.

Eddie, next time you're in the 753... screens, go up 3 and over 2 to the VBIDLSched page. What Ver do you have? Today should be 168. If it's current, at least something is coming through. :D

I'm also confused about the non-working unit's Power On and LastClkSet date and time. 10/15/09??? The UTC date right now is still 10/14/09.

My Sony DHG-HDD500 grid was filled with "No Listing"... So, after reading thru posts, I thought the unit needed a firmware upgrade to get the program listings via Digital Channels.

I am in the CLEVELAND, OH market... Zip = 44202

I performed the FACTORY RESET - and upgraded Firmware to 1.2.21. I have found that I can get VBI packets when tuned to channel 25-1. VBI Packets continue to increment on the 753 ATSC Slicer screen

I have been leaving the unit OFF and tuned to 25-1 (albeit, that I turned it on and checked a few times) and I still don't have a GRID... but I do have the ADVERTS on the left side of the TV Guide menu.

My HOST CHANNEL is still blank... and I don't think I have had a Host Channel since I performed the Factory Reset and 1.2.21 version upgrade.

My version is listed as: 08.01.71/08.06.44
Failing Clock = 25-1
Clock Set = 26-0

Under Section Reception Slicing
All the HostChan and Curr Chan column data = 0
SinceCold shows:
Starts = 3
Ends=1
Drops=1
BadPMW=1
CErrs=1
All other values = 0

Under Reception VBI Stats
TotFrTape = 0
2x / Gemstar / Enabled Lines= 0x0

My HostSUFlags did get to 0xf78 .. but not it has been reset and my HostSUFlags is back to 0x000.

QUESTIONS:
Can anyone confirm that 25-1 OTA is the "right" channel for Cleveland, OH (Zip = 44202) in order for me to have the best chance to retrieve my grid and channel listings?? Is there anyone in the Cleveland area (Time Warner Cable) that's gotten this to work??

If I am getting the ADVERTS updating ... I assume that means there IS a TVGOS signal getting to the unit. What is preventing me from getting a GRID and LISTINGS??

Other than continuing to WAIT and WAIT... is there any other recommendation??

Would it make sense to get an ARTEC T3APR-T unit... and does anyone have on they are willing to part with??

Would I need the ARTEC only to get the GRID to recover... or would I need it always connected from this point on??

Thanks to anyone and all that can help!!!
SUCCESS ! ! !

Not sure exactly what I did to get this working... maybe I just waited long enough... but I've got a GRID, and it's starting to fill in.

Something changed since this morning. Earlier today (around 7:00am) I still didn't have a grid. But now (around 2:30pm) I have a GRID!!

A few items to note - maybe this will help others...

HostSUFlags = 0xf78
VBI State = 0x05
My HOST CHANNEL is still BLANK... weird.
In the VBI Packets .. in the Host Column... I have 4 listed for TVG and Tot Sections

I took a bunch of digital photos of as many screens as possible. If anyone wants them (to get another "data point" for future / further trouble shooting) ... send me a PM, and I'll get them posted somewhere for download.

... wooohooo...

SUCCESS ! ! !

Not sure exactly what I did to get this working... maybe I just waited long enough... but I've got a GRID, and it's starting to fill in.

Something changed since this morning. Earlier today (around 7:00am) I still didn't have a grid. But now (around 2:30pm) I have a GRID!!

A few items to note - maybe this will help others...

HostSUFlags = 0xf78
VBI State = 0x05
My HOST CHANNEL is still BLANK... weird.
In the VBI Packets .. in the Host Column... I have 4 listed for TVG and Tot Sections

I took a bunch of digital photos of as many screens as possible. If anyone wants them (to get another "data point" for future / further trouble shooting) ... send me a PM, and I'll get them posted somewhere for download.

... wooohooo...

What is in your LastASetEnd field???

What is in your LastASetEnd field???

LastASetEnd = 10/13/09 20:45:21

LastASetEnd = 10/13/09 20:45:21


Your HostChan set briefly at the date/time in LastASetEnd, and then it subsequently cleared. But you got your Grid, and that's all that counts. Now that you have a Grid, you'll continue to get listings without the HostChan being set . . . :)

It is my opinion that the host id on both units is invalid. I believe both your units are acting like they are set to the wrong zip code (I realize they are not). Despite having a local PBS station transmitting the TVGOS data, it seems this data does not belong to your zip code (sort of a guess).

Here is what I want you to do. Change your zip code from what it is, to 31322. This is a Savannah, GA zip code. My reasoning is that your station is listed under Savannah on rabbitears.info.com (it's also listed under Charleston, SC). After changing the zip code leave the DVR off for an hour or two. Then turn it back on, and go look at the HostSUFlags value, and see if it is still 0x80000000. If it is still that value, then this didn't work, and you can switch the zip code back (or you can switch the zip code to 29401, which is a Charleston zip and try it again). However, if it has progressed, and that '8' has changed to either c, d, e, or f, then leave it set to that zip code for a few days. If it has progressed, your host id should be set to 0x65 (for Savannah).

Mark Things are happening. Clock has now set, 0X80000000 is now 0Xe400000 and host Id is 0x65. Time Zone Element is 16, time zone viersion is 168 and offset is -18000. Looks like you might have something here. Will let you know what happens. Thanks Eddie

Here are some more screen shots - to aid anyone else in their diagnostic efforts!!

Thanks for everyone's help.

Here are a few more...

I've been following this a little and I know Mark is assisting you (his advice is always very good). From looking at the times and values you posted, I don't think the "working" unit is updating right now either. Mark, did you notice? The Time Zone Version of 152 is from last Sat. the 10th. Also the LastClkSet is the same as the Power On date and time. So no TZ packets or clock sets since Sat. along with the problem of no HostID or Host Channel. FWIW, I get around 14 clock sets per day.

Eddie, next time you're in the 753... screens, go up 3 and over 2 to the VBIDLSched page. What Ver do you have? Today should be 168. If it's current, at least something is coming through. :D

I'm also confused about the non-working unit's Power On and LastClkSet date and time. 10/15/09??? The UTC date right now is still 10/14/09.

At this time there is no version listed. But since we changed the zip code to Savannah, Ga things are happening.

Your HostChan set briefly at the date/time in LastASetEnd, and then it subsequently cleared. But you got your Grid, and that's all that counts. Now that you have a Grid, you'll continue to get listings without the HostChan being set . . . :)

LastASetEnd = 10/13/09 20:45:21
Checked w/ no Grid / Host = 10/14/09 07:00:00

If that's the case... why didn't I have a GRID @ 7:00am this morning??

I checked - and didn't have a Host Channel or a Grid.

Odd...

LastASetEnd = 10/13/09 20:45:21

So your host channel set at 4:45pm yesterday. Then at 7:12pm the host channel cleared... did you do something at 7:12pm yesterday, like change your zip code? At that tme, something caused the host to blank, and a new NumSearch to start. Why the grid was delayed by almost 24 hours I haven't a clue.

Mark

LastASetEnd = 10/13/09 20:45:21
Checked w/ no Grid / Host = 10/14/09 07:00:00

If that's the case... why didn't I have a GRID @ 7:00am this morning??

I checked - and didn't have a Host Channel or a Grid.

Odd...

You didn't have a HostChan at 7:00 because it cleared less than 3 hours after it set yesterday. I dunno why you didn't see the Grid. Maybe it was one of those myterious cases where the Grid is there, but is hidden from view? You have to ask Mark on this one . . . :confused:

[...]
Mark, did you notice? The Time Zone Version of 152 is from last Sat. the 10th. Also the LastClkSet is the same as the Power On date and time. So no TZ packets or clock sets since Sat. along with the problem of no HostID or Host Channel. FWIW, I get around 14 clock sets per day.

[...]

I'm also confused about the non-working unit's Power On and LastClkSet date and time. 10/15/09??? The UTC date right now is still 10/14/09.

I was too fixated on the HostSUFlags not progressing, and the 0xFFFF Host ID. :) I'm going to speculate that the clock will set once without a valid host id, but won't set again until it gets one. This is totally based on what I have observed with Eddie's DVR today. I'll guess that the 10/15 date vs. 10/14 dates could have been typos on his part?

Mark

You didn't have a HostChan at 7:00 because it cleared less than 3 hours after it set yesterday. I dunno why you didn't see the Grid. Maybe it was one of those myterious cases where the Grid is there, but is hidden from view? You have to ask Mark on this one . . . :confused:

Please don't ask me. :confused::confused:

Mark

I was too fixated on the HostSUFlags not progressing, and the 0xFFFF Host ID. :) I'm going to speculate that the clock will set once without a valid host id, but won't set again until it gets one. This is totally based on what I have observed with Eddie's DVR today. I'll guess that the 10/15 date vs. 10/14 dates could have been typos on his part?

Mark

Sorry my error, it was 10/13/09.

So your host channel set at 4:45pm yesterday. Then at 7:12pm the host channel cleared... did you do something at 7:12pm yesterday, like change your zip code? At that tme, something caused the host to blank, and a new NumSearch to start. Why the grid was delayed by almost 24 hours I haven't a clue.

Mark

I believe that I changed the ZIP CODE.

In my frustration... I tried the Zip for my area that was suggested by DTVPal+ ... which for Cleveland is 00012.

Then... when it looked like it was still not working... I later changed it back to my local zip code... which is 44202.

Maybe this switch of Zip Codes (and NOT USING 00000) did the trick???

Dunno ... but hopefully this idea will help someone else.

4 days & no grid...I got frustrated & did another reset today at noon under the 9012 menu. I immediately updated it to .21.

At 4:45ish the clock set correctly

I'm on Cable (Comcast) It is picking up my host channel 101-2...I've verified under the 753159852 menu. Also verified VBI packet updates...
When I go to listings it says "There is no data for this screen"

Before I reset it the 2nd time this is what it said after 4 days....I had tons of ads...it had something like 65 of them when I looked it up on the 753 menu.

Is it possible my splitter is preventing a grid? Its straight from the wall into a 2 way splitter, 1 to tv & the other to my Sony DVR.

Anyone have any ideas?

Thanks

Kevin

I believe that I changed the ZIP CODE.

In my frustration... I tried the Zip for my area that was suggested by DTVPal+ ... which for Cleveland is 00012.

Then... when it looked like it was still not working... I later changed it back to my local zip code... which is 44202.

Maybe this switch of Zip Codes (and NOT USING 00000) did the trick???

Dunno ... but hopefully this idea will help someone else.

Yes, changing zip codes will clear the host channel if it is set.

Mark

4 days & no grid...I got frustrated & did another reset today at noon under the 9012 menu. I immediately updated it to .21.


Next time you decide to reset, if you do the one under the TV Guide sub menu (in the 9012 menu), it won't overwrite your .21 firmware, so you don't have to re-install it.


Is it possible my splitter is preventing a grid? Its straight from the wall into a 2 way splitter, 1 to tv & the other to my Sony DVR.

Anyone have any ideas?

Thanks

Kevin

It's not the splitter. You have ads, (and correct clock I presume) which proves it is gettting the TVGOS data. If the splitter was bad your picture would be also. Unfortunately, 4 days isn't very long on the road to getting a grid. It takes some areas much longer to get one.

Mark

It is my opinion that the host id on both units is invalid. I believe both your units are acting like they are set to the wrong zip code (I realize they are not). Despite having a local PBS station transmitting the TVGOS data, it seems this data does not belong to your zip code (sort of a guess).

Here is what I want you to do. Change your zip code from what it is, to 31322. This is a Savannah, GA zip code. My reasoning is that your station is listed under Savannah on rabbitears.info.com (it's also listed under Charleston, SC). After changing the zip code leave the DVR off for an hour or two. Then turn it back on, and go look at the HostSUFlags value, and see if it is still 0x80000000. If it is still that value, then this didn't work, and you can switch the zip code back (or you can switch the zip code to 29401, which is a Charleston zip and try it again). However, if it has progressed, and that '8' has changed to either c, d, e, or f, then leave it set to that zip code for a few days. If it has progressed, your host id should be set to 0x65 (for Savannah).

Mark

Mark,

I did a quick check and I have ads. I noticed that I didn't have ads on the other one, so I set it to 31322 zip. I hope in the morning to maybe see the grid.

said by AVSforums :

How to access the TV Guide On Screen debug data

This apparently works for ALL TVGOS implementations (Pioneer, Sony, Toshiba, etc.)

1. Press the TV Guide button on your remote.

2. Arrow up until you're at the menu bar at the top.

3. Arrow right until you've highlighting "Setup".

4. Arrow down until you've highlighted "Change system settings". DO NOT PRESS ENTER.

5. Using the number keypad on the remote, enter the following numbers: 753159852 .
6. Right arrow to 2nd grey screen > Find "Host Chan" in left column and see if there are #s at right, which may look like 1:0-10. The last full # is your Host Channel.

7. to do a system reset, use this code instead: With "Change system settings" highlighted, Enter this code with number keys: 653274147.
* Turn unit OFF, then back ON
* Redo TVG Setup. Go to SETUP again and, this time, select (Enter) "Change system settings."
* Select the bottom choice, "No, repeat Setup process."
* wait two days for listings to load.

Next time you decide to reset, if you do the one under the TV Guide sub menu (in the 9012 menu), it won't overwrite your .21 firmware, so you don't have to re-install it.

It's not the splitter. You have ads, (and correct clock I presume) which proves it is gettting the TVGOS data. If the splitter was bad your picture would be also. Unfortunately, 4 days isn't very long on the road to getting a grid. It takes some areas much longer to get one.

Mark

Good info...thanks Mark. I guess I should have posted before I got frustrated & reset again! :o

Is the "There is no data for this screen" common? Before I reset it the 1st time it was saying something like "guide info downloading should be available in 24 hours"

Things are happening. Clock has now set, 0X80000000 is now 0Xe400000 and host Id is 0x65. Time Zone Element is 16, time zone viersion is 168 and offset is -18000. Looks like you might have something here. Will let you know what happens. Thanks Eddie

That is all good news.

Mark

Mark,

I did a quick check and I have ads. I noticed that I didn't have ads on the other one, so I set it to 31322 zip. I hope in the morning to maybe see the grid.

Maybe not in the morning, but within a few days, hopefully. My only question is what kind of channel list will you get from Savannah. You'll probably have to do some editing of it.

Mark

Good info...thanks Mark. I guess I should have posted before I got frustrated & reset again! :o


That's ok, if you had posted that you were gong to reset again, I wouldn't have tried to talk you out of it. I know how strong the "I need to do something" urge can be, when it doesn't seem to be doing anything.


Is the "There is no data for this screen" common? Before I reset it the 1st time it was saying something like "guide info downloading should be available in 24 hours"

Yes, that is the dreaded waiting for a grid screen. The "24 hours" message shows up when you change something in the setup, like switching from 'OTA only' to 'OTA + Cable'.

Mark

Maybe not in the morning, but within a few days, hopefully. My only question is what kind of channel list will you get from Savannah. You'll probably have to do some editing of it.

Mark

It shouldn't be any different than what I had on the working 250 which still has the guide after changing the zip. I will add the Charleston station which I watch OTA mostly on this TV. I contact SCETV's engineer to find out what zip are coded for this area in SC, haven't heard back yet. Orginally 29906 was assign to WVAN in Pembroke, Ga. Before the digital transitions they were operation at low power and we could not receive there signal over here. I worked with the Guide engineers to change it over to WJWJ. Up until WJWJ dropped there analog I never had a problem. I think TV guide caught this and maybe just dropped 29906 from there lineup.

My DVR will not output anything through the HDMI output. I have tried resetting it, leaving it unplugged for several days, and I still have nothing. I notice in a previous post that someone had the same problem but I did not see a solution. It will not even display the menu screen and the TV does not seem to "see" a signal. Has anyone had the same problem and if you did then what did you do to fix it?


Thanks.


Msmith56

Firstly, if you aren't seeing the menu screens then there is a mismatch between the format of the DVR's output and the signal the TV is receiving. The menus only appear on the highest level connection so to get it everywhere, you need to go to the lowest common denominator. So to start off set the DVR to output SD (not 480i, 720p, 1080i, etc.) with the remote. Leave it on SD until you get the connection/s sorted out. Secondly, for the HDMI output, make sure you aren't using the component output connections concurrently. If component connections are used it turns off the HDMI connection.
If I didn't describe what to do very well you can find another description in the operations manual. In any case, I hope this helps to get you going.

Maybe not in the morning, but within a few days, hopefully. My only question is what kind of channel list will you get from Savannah. You'll probably have to do some editing of it.

Mark

Mark,
I also was recently at this juncture and just wanted to thank you for your posts here in the Sony DVR forum. I was stuck without a grid for several weeks after moving my DVR to a new zip code and subsequently doing resets/restores/format because it wasn't working and was behaving badly (freezes, etc.). It wasn't until after I had wiped the grid that I started exploring the post digital transition updates on the forum. (I just have OTA and it transitioned from analog to digital, PBS to CBS, without any problem that I bothered to notice.)
I didn't get the grid in an orderly fashion so I'm not sure I have any useful information for anyone other than it is possible to do without having a video tape of an analog broadcast or a converter box -- at least in the Raleigh/Durham NC area.
Also, your web page on taking the unit from the factory base code level and getting the updates over the air was reassuring. After a restore to factory settings, I actually went through your entire procedure in the space of *one* night by staying up way late and by not following the "leave it alone" instructions too closely (obviously). I got lucky and timed things just right somehow. Although I got the code updates, after a few days of not getting a grid I reread your comments and went ahead and applied the Sony microcode update again. I'm not sure if it was you or someone else that explained how the G* VBI test changes with the microcode level, but understanding that it wasn't broken (FAIL was expected) was also reassuringly helpful.
After still waiting several days for a grid, I decided to put the zip code back to the one it had originally that I knew worked. Due to antenna position and the relatively crappy tuner in the DVR, the host channel in both locations ended up being the same. Consequently, I'm still not sure if the "correct" zip code works or not. The wait for the grid was definitely coinciding with not receiving a timezone pkt although the clock got set (incorrectly) long before I got a timezone and the host channel got set.
At any rate, I have been getting listings for a few weeks now. Whenever, I get curious and check the host channel is invariably blank in the diagnostics, but that also isn't news to the folks who wade through this forum. With all of the conflicting information your contributions stand out and have proved accurate.

Thanks again,
Clyde Zuber

More Strange Happenings

The ads and the program listings stopped last night – it could be another Houston Thing? Day 8 is less than 10% filled in and about 10% of Day 7 is missing.

At 10PM last night the box was set to record a non CBS station, which it completed without a problem. Being on a non CBS stations, should have no effect on its downloads or I should say I have not seen it have such an affect for several months.

It appears downloads stopped about 10PM last night. Downloads may have resumed at 8AM this morning; but that is hard to say because the ads are still zero and Day 8 has not yet updated?

The box is otherwise operating correctly. It should have its next NumSearch within 12 hours. At that point anything is possible.

Mark,

Just checked and still no grid this morning. Let me know if there is any info that will show if things are on track.

Eddie

More Strange Happenings

The ads and the program listings stopped last night – it could be another Houston Thing? Day 8 is less than 10% filled in and about 10% of Day 7 is missing.

At 10PM last night the box was set to record a non CBS station, which it completed without a problem. Being on a non CBS stations, should have no effect on its downloads or I should say I have not seen it have such an affect for several months.

It appears downloads stopped about 10PM last night. Downloads may have resumed at 8AM this morning; but that is hard to say because the ads are still zero and Day 8 has not yet updated?

The box is otherwise operating correctly. It should have its next NumSearch within 12 hours. At that point anything is possible.

I also got No Listings last night here in Wichita. Day 8 is 100% 'No Listing' on both my Sony (OTA digital), and my Panasonic DMR-E95H (analog cable SCTE-127 data). My HostSUFlags went from 0xc68 to 0xdf8 overnight, so only the listings are effected.

I'll give it a few days and see if it comes back on its own.

Mark

Mark,

Just checked and still no grid this morning. Let me know if there is any info that will show if things are on track.

Eddie

I watch the HostSUFlags, to tell how far along it is. You are looking for it to get to 0xff8. I'll guess that it is probably at least up to 0xe68 today. It can sit at one value for two or three days before going the rest of the way, so don't get discouraged.

Mark

I watch the HostSUFlags, to tell how far along it is. You are looking for it to get to 0xff8. I'll guess that it is probably at least up to 0xe68 today. It can sit at one value for two or three days before going the rest of the way, so don't get discouraged.

Mark

The working unit is at 0xe70 and the other one is still at 0xe60.

I also got No Listings last night here in Wichita. Day 8 is 100% 'No Listing' on both my Sony (OTA digital), and my Panasonic DMR-E95H (analog cable SCTE-127 data). My HostSUFlags went from 0xc68 to 0xdf8 overnight, so only the listings are effected.

I'll give it a few days and see if it comes back on its own.

Mark

Wouldn't worry about it. The same thing happened here a week ago yesterday. Not even the current day's DL schedule had updated. The following day everything was back to normal. :confused:

Have had sporadic updates the past 2 weeks. Finally did a way overdue TVGOS reset to defaults to clear up the recording lockups that had come up. For some reason, when my grid repopulated a few months ago, it placed a whole bunch of "off" channels in the middle and most of the channels below would have recording lockup. This time, I got a more normal distribution.
I'm not as savy has most of you guys, and always appreciate your talk and advice.

The one thing I have gleamed out of all this since the digital change over is patience....sometimes just waiting things out for a few days and stuff starts getting normal again. What I don't get is why things are so unstable to begin with. My sony Tv 4100z never, never has a problem....but again that is the next generation of TVGOS.

Cw

I also got No Listings last night here in Wichita. Day 8 is 100% 'No Listing' on both my Sony (OTA digital), and my Panasonic DMR-E95H (analog cable SCTE-127 data). My HostSUFlags went from 0xc68 to 0xdf8 overnight, so only the listings are effected.

I'll give it a few days and see if it comes back on its own.

Mark

Just a 1PM info check. Day 8 is now about 85% complete, ads are zero (none)? Next NumSearch should be between 5PM and midnight. Has Been 0xe68 since removal of Artec at beginning of week.

Seems like there is tweaking going on data flow rates.......EPPs are up a lot, close to TimezonePkts; but DPPs are getting lower (very slow increase)? Have no idea what that means.

I have that feeling again, after the next NumSearch it may lock up again, because the Grid is from the Artec?

what do you do when your DVR is not authenticating using a HDMI cable and a cable card?

I also got No Listings last night here in Wichita. Day 8 is 100% 'No Listing' on both my Sony (OTA digital), and my Panasonic DMR-E95H (analog cable SCTE-127 data). My HostSUFlags went from 0xc68 to 0xdf8 overnight, so only the listings are effected.

I'll give it a few days and see if it comes back on its own.

Mark

I checked this evening and I'm missing about 1/2 of the listings for the last 12 hours of day 8. Also, some of the ads are apparently missing . . . . .

I checked this evening and I'm missing about 1/2 of the listings for the last 12 hours of day 8. Also, some of the ads are apparently missing . . . . .

Tonight the Sony is still missing all of day 8. The panasonic, however, is completely filled in. I didn't notice whether the ads were gone this morning, but tonight I have 21 ads. My host channel did set today on the Sony.

Mark

Mark,
I also was recently at this juncture and just wanted to thank you for your posts here in the Sony DVR forum.

[...]

Also, your web page on taking the unit from the factory base code level and getting the updates over the air was reassuring.

[...]



Clyde,

I appreciate it, and am glad that you have found my information useful. I never considered that webpage I made to be anything other than proof that recovery with the older firmware could be done. I didn't expect that people would use it as a guide. I almost wish I had made one for the .21 firmware recovery, to try to encourage people to upgrade before they try to get a grid, since it is a little simpler. I hope there aren't too many people doing the 'Restore Factory Defaults' since the 'Reset To Factory Defaults' accomplishes virtually the same thing, and you don't lose the .21 firmware in the process. Actually, I don't recomnmend that anyone with a grid (even one filled with 'No Listing'), do either reset, without knowing whether their DVR can acquire a host channel on a regular basis (getting nightly listings is no indication that a host channel can be acquired). If your DVR can't acquire a host channel, then it also can't build a grid.

Mark

Clyde,

I appreciate it, and am glad that you have found my information useful. I never considered that webpage I made to be anything other than proof that recovery with the older firmware could be done. I didn't expect that people would use it as a guide. I almost wish I had made one for the .21 firmware recovery, to try to encourage people to upgrade before they try to get a grid, since it is a little simpler. I hope there aren't too many people doing the 'Restore Factory Defaults' since the 'Reset To Factory Defaults' accomplishes virtually the same thing, and you don't lose the .21 firmware in the process. Actually, I don't recomnmend that anyone with a grid (even one filled with 'No Listing'), do either reset, without knowing whether their DVR can acquire a host channel on a regular basis (getting nightly listings is no indication that a host channel can be acquired). If your DVR can't acquire a host channel, then it also can't build a grid.

Mark

So, what is the best way to a host channel?

So, what is the best way to a host channel?

If you don't have a grid, and you have verified that TVGOS data is being broadcast in your area, then it is just a waiting game. If you have been waiting for over a month, then it is safe to say the data in your area is broken, and you may never get a host channel, or a grid. If you have a grid, and you get nightly listings, but your host channel never sets, there is nothing you can do to get it to set. It is up to your DVR, and ROVI to set the host channel. Sorry for the short answer, but I'm on my way to work.

Mark

So, what is the best way to a host channel?
Whats the best way to get a host channel?

If you're tired of waiting, hook up an Artec or DTVPal box to your Sony, thats what I did and everythings been working great since.

Whats the best way to get a host channel?

If you're tired of waiting, hook up an Artec or DTVPal box to your Sony, thats what I did and everythings been working great since.
in my case, I used my Pal - just as a test - to get the converted analog output found as host channel (and to get a grid that way), but when I removed the Pal from the system, I was (not surprisingly) still left with no host channel, apparently because the SF broadcast is still messed up in some way...but I get listings, so not to worry.

(Though I am getting resigned to getting some shows only by using a manual setting, since the record setting for those programs regularly gets lost on the day of recording...had the same problem last year...)

So, what is the best way to a host channel?

Like Mark said, you can wait. I have played with zipcodes, and if yours is not included in the packet data you will never get anything except a clock. And that assumes you have a valid time zone. It could be there is something messed up with your provider. Try an email to your host channel and ask them if they support your zip code. It's something to do while you wait for a grid. Best of luck.

Probably not good for us:

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/Rovi-Announces-Multiyear-pz-837574389.html?x=0&.v=1

Cut & paste if needed.

Like Mark said, you can wait. I have played with zipcodes, and if yours is not included in the packet data you will never get anything except a clock. And that assumes you have a valid time zone. It could be there is something messed up with your provider. Try an email to your host channel and ask them if they support your zip code. It's somthing to do while you wait for a grid. Best of luck.

Thanks Guys!
I have spoken to the engineer at the Buffalo PBS TVGOS. He said the download was being sent out in the we hours at night. I'll try different zip codes as well.
If anybody in the Buffalo NY area is getting a grind/host channel, what zip code are you using?

I posted this in the Comcast Chicago thread, but it's worth mentioning here that Comcast screwed up something in their system on Wednesday. Many, many cablecard users in Chicago are getting either a 161-10 or a 161-52 error popping up every minute or so.

The Comcast cablecard group called me and said don't bother trying to swap cards. They need a few days to figure out what they did. The problem is not specific to any brand of equipment AFAIK.

I watch the HostSUFlags, to tell how far along it is. You are looking for it to get to 0xff8. I'll guess that it is probably at least up to 0xe68 today. It can sit at one value for two or three days before going the rest of the way, so don't get discouraged.

Mark

Mark,

This were my findings this morning.

Working 250 has ads and over seven days of guide. No host channel and HostSuFlag remain the same at 0Xf7000000. I have it scheduled to record two shows and it recorded fine.

Original 250 has ads, no grid or guide. No host channel and HostSuFlag remains the same at 0Xe6000000. Clock has correct time.

Should there be a host channel? Seems like I read somewhere there won't be one listed after the .21 update.

Eddie

I have both 250's set 31322 zip.

Mark,

This were my findings this morning.

Working 250 has ads and over seven days of guide. No host channel and HostSuFlag remain the same at 0Xf7000000. I have it scheduled to record two shows and it recorded fine.

Original 250 has ads, no grid or guide. No host channel and HostSuFlag remains the same at 0Xe6000000. Clock has correct time.

Should there be a host channel? Seems like I read somewhere there won't be one listed after the .21 update.

Eddie

I have both 250's set 31322 zip.

It's no big deal but are you sure the third digit from the left on the HostSUFlags isn't an 8 instead of a 0? i.e. 0xe6800000 & 0xf7800000.

You have to acquire a host channel once to get a grid. After that it doesn't need a host channel to get listings. In the digital environment, the pattern seems to be that the host will set, and then after 3 days it will blank. Then a period of a few hours to several weeks will go by, and the host will set again, and then blank after 3 days.

Mark

Thanks Guys!
I have spoken to the engineer at the Buffalo PBS TVGOS. He said the download was being sent out in the we hours at night. I'll try different zip codes as well.
If anybody in the Buffalo NY area is getting a grind/host channel, what zip code are you using?

You might search the forum for messages from videobruce. He is in Buffalo, and has a Sony DVR. He has had very mixed results with his, but last I heard he did get a host channel at some point, although he was also using an Artec.

Mark

It's no big deal but are you sure the third digit from the left on the HostSUFlags isn't an 8 instead of a 0? i.e. 0xe6800000 & 0xf7800000.

You have to acquire a host channel once to get a grid. After that it doesn't need a host channel to get listings. In the digital environment, the pattern seems to be that the host will set, and then after 3 days it will blank. Then a period of a few hours to several weeks will go by, and the host will set again, and then blank after 3 days.

Mark

Mark,

They just the way I listed them. Six 0's after the fourth character. But now 0xf7000000 is 0xff000000.

Eddie

Mark,

They just the way I listed them. Six 0's after the fourth character. But now 0xf7000000 is 0xff000000.

Eddie

On the working DVR (the one that shows 0xff000000), go into the 753 menu, and verify that the host channel is still blank. Then go up two screens to reception slicing. Then go to the right two screens. You'll be on the Reception-VBI Stats screen. This shows all the different packets that your DVR receives. Look down the list on the left for 'HostSchedule', and see if that field shows 0. I don't know what HostSchedule packets are, but my DVR receives these quite frequently. It is one of the pieces of information that, I believe, is required to set the host channel.

I'd change the zip code of your DVR that doesn't have a grid over to 29401 (Charleston, SC). I'm not sure your going to be able to get a grid if you aren't receiving HostSchedule packets.

Mark

Mark,

They just the way I listed them. Six 0's after the fourth character. But now 0xf7000000 is 0xff000000.

Eddie

A fast way to find reasonable zipcodes, go to USPS.COM. They have an option to find a postoffice. Enter your zipcode and it gives you a list of valid codes. You select the geographic area. I have five within 10 miles, of which I think there are four being serviced by my provider which is 12 miles west of my location. I KNOW that 8 miles east of me is not in their service area, but is fed by the same corporation out of a different office and does NOT give me a lineup or listings. Ain't life fun?

On the working DVR (the one that shows 0xff000000), go into the 753 menu, and verify that the host channel is still blank. Then go up two screens to reception slicing. Then go to the right two screens. You'll be on the Reception-VBI Stats screen. This shows all the different packets that your DVR receives. Look down the list on the left for 'HostSchedule', and see if that field shows 0. I don't know what HostSchedule packets are, but my DVR receives these quite frequently. It is one of the pieces of information that, I believe, is required to set the host channel.

I'd change the zip code of your DVR that doesn't have a grid over to 29401 (Charleston, SC). I'm not sure your going to be able to get a grid if you aren't receiving HostSchedule packets.

Mark


Everything is the same this morning. Still no host channel and the HostSchedule is set @ 0. I have a couple of email addresses for TV guide and will contact them. Do you have anything special you would like for me to ask?

Channel 7 in Charleston is VHF and my antenna is a CM 4228 UHF. I can't receive a signal here in Beaufort.

Eddie

A fast way to find reasonable zipcodes, go to USPS.COM. They have an option to find a postoffice. Enter your zipcode and it gives you a list of valid codes. You select the geographic area. I have five within 10 miles, of which I think there are four being serviced by my provider which is 12 miles west of my location. I KNOW that 8 miles east of me is not in their service area, but is fed by the same corporation out of a different office and does NOT give me a lineup or listings. Ain't life fun?

WJWJ here in Beaufort is my only hope. Georgia's PBS are not carrying the guide at all, so their engineer told me and the CBS station in Savannah owners want to charge for the space which the guide won't pay for it. You sure right about life. LOL.

Everything is the same this morning. Still no host channel and the HostSchedule is set @ 0. I have a couple of email addresses for TV guide and will contact them. Do you have anything special you would like for me to ask?


I'd send the email to this address: Ce_customer_support@rovicorp.com (mailto:Ce_customer_support@rovicorp.com). I'd tell them your original problem, that your local Beaufort PBS station broadcasts the TVGOS data, but if you use your Beaufort zip code, your DVR won't set the clock, and when you look at the Host ID field, it is set to 0x0. However, when you set your zip code to Savannah, Georgia, your clock sets, and your host ID is set to 0x65, but you still can't get a grid.


Channel 7 in Charleston is VHF and my antenna is a CM 4228 UHF. I can't receive a signal here in Beaufort.

Eddie

That's ok, it isn't channel 7 that I'm after. If you go to rabbitears (http://www.rabbitears.info/market.php), and search for your city in the list, you won't find it. However, if you go to either Savannah, GA, or Charleston, SC, both cities list your PBS station as a TVGOS source. You tried Savannah, and that hasn't quite worked (yet), so now I want you to try Charleston. Only do this with one DVR, and leave the other one set to the Savannah zip code. It's possible that the HostSchedule packets are infrequently sent out, and you may eventually get one from Savannah.

Mark

I'd send the email to this address: Ce_customer_support@rovicorp.com (mailto:Ce_customer_support@rovicorp.com). I'd tell them your original problem, that your local Beaufort PBS station broadcasts the TVGOS data, but if you use your Beaufort zip code, your DVR won't set the clock, and when you look at the Host ID field, it is set to 0x0. However, when you set your zip code to Savannah, Georgia, your clock sets, and your host ID is set to 0x65, but you still can't get a grid.



That's ok, it isn't channel 7 that I'm after. If you go to rabbitears (http://www.rabbitears.info/market.php), and search for your city in the list, you won't find it. However, if you go to either Savannah, GA, or Charleston, SC, both cities list your PBS station as a TVGOS source. You tried Savannah, and that hasn't quite worked (yet), so now I want you to try Charleston. Only do this with one DVR, and leave the other one set to the Savannah zip code. It's possible that the HostSchedule packets are infrequently sent out, and you may eventually get one from Savannah.

Mark

Will do and I sent an email to that address and told them what was going on. Will let you know when I hear back.

has anyone else ever had trouble holding down menu and format button on the front display to get the repair menu and to clear the NVM memory and format completely? I can't get the menu to come up while I'm in the welcome setup screen like spiffspace says to.

has anyone else ever had trouble holding down menu and format button on the front display to get the repair menu and to clear the NVM memory and format completely? I can't get the menu to come up while I'm in the welcome setup screen like spiffspace says to.

First, it is the "Screen Mode" button you press, not the "Format" button.
Second, you don't hold them down, you press "Menu", and let up (this brings up the normal menu), then you press Screen Mode, and let up, followed by the numbers 9, 0, 1, and then 2. You don't hold any of them down at the same time, and there is no time constraint (you can wait 3 or 4 seconds between each button press).

Also, if you aren't positive that you can recover a grid in a digital environment, and you don't have a backup (DTVPal, Artec, cable SCTE-127 data, etc.), I would think twice before doing this, since you may never be able to recover your grid from a reset.

Hope this helps.

Mark

For those who are having no luck getting a host channel which seems to prevent you from getting a grid. I'm going break down and get the Artec digital converter box $45 at buy.com. A lot of people have recommended this device to resolve my problem. I'll post when I receive this item and test it out.

For those who are having no luck getting a host channel which seems to prevent you from getting a grid. I'm going break down and get the Artec digital converter box $45 at buy.com. A lot of people have recommended this device to resolve my problem. I'll post when I receive this item and test it out.
I bought one and it brought my grid and guide back, its worth the money. Its too bad we couldn't have used coupons on them.

For those who are having no luck getting a host channel which seems to prevent you from getting a grid. I'm going break down and get the Artec digital converter box $45 at buy.com. A lot of people have recommended this device to resolve my problem. I'll post when I receive this item and test it out.

Just make sure it is the T3APR-T model and shows the TV Guide logo, as seen here (http://www.digitalstar.com/product/Artec-T3APR-T-TVG--Digital-to-Analog-Converter-Box-with-TV-Guide.aspx). If it isn't a -T model (stands for TVGOS), it won't work. It doesn't look like the $45.00 one is.

Mark

I change my zip code to Charleston 29401, left it over night and had the same results when I had it set to 29906. Host id remained at 0x0. Now I have it back to 31322 and things came back with host id 065 but still no host channel.

Just make sure it is the T3APR-T model and shows the TV Guide logo, as seen here (http://www.digitalstar.com/product/Artec-T3APR-T-TVG--Digital-to-Analog-Converter-Box-with-TV-Guide.aspx). If it isn't a -T model (stands for TVGOS), it won't work. It doesn't look like the $45.00 one is.

Mark
Great Point!!
I almost purchased the wrong one.
Thanks!!

I change my zip code to Charleston 29401, left it over night and had the same results when I had it set to 29906. Host id remained at 0x0. Now I have it back to 31322 and things came back with host id 065 but still no host channel.

Leaving the zip code set to Savannah seems to be your best option for now. I'd use your working DVR to experiment with other zip codes around your area, to see if maybe a different Beaufort zip code might set the Host ID, or even zip codes from other counties around Beaufort. There is always the chance that Host schedule packets will eventually get sent out to Savannah, so you should leave your non-working DVR set to that zip code 24/7. If nothing changes this week, I'd consider buying and Artec, or DTVPal converter box.

Mark

Leaving the zip code set to Savannah seems to be your best option for now. I'd use your working DVR to experiment with other zip codes around your area, to see if maybe a different Beaufort zip code might set the Host ID, or even zip codes from other counties around Beaufort. There is always the chance that Host schedule packets will eventually get sent out to Savannah, so you should leave your non-working DVR set to that zip code 24/7. If nothing changes this week, I'd consider buying and Artec, or DTVPal converter box.

Mark

Tell me how the Artec or DTVPal works. I only have Directv.

Eddie

Tell me how the Artec or DTVPal works. I only have Directv.

Eddie
I have DirecTV and two Sonys. :)

I have DirecTV and two Sonys. :)

Can you tell me how it connects to the two DVR's to get the host channel?

Tell me how the Artec or DTVPal works. I only have Directv.

Eddie

Your PBS station actually broadcasts two streams of data. One is the digital data that you have been trying to get a host channel, and a grid with. The other stream is a legacy data stream that is basically a digitized version of the old analog data. The Artec T3APR-T, and the DTVPal both have a special TVGOS mode built in to them that will convert the digital legacy data back to analog. It then transmits it over channel 3, or 4, to a legacy device such as the Sony, or a number of analog only devices. This data is supposed to be identical to the pre-transition analog data that was being transmitted. Because of this, even though the digital data in your area is broken, the legacy data can be used to recover a grid. That is all you would use either of these devices for, is to get your grid back on your non-working DVR. Once you have a grid, you would disconnect the device, and not have to use it again, unless you lose the grid again.

Mark

Your PBS station actually broadcasts two streams of data. One is the digital data that you have been trying to get a host channel, and a grid with. The other stream is a legacy data stream that is basically a digitized version of the old analog data. The Artec T3APR-T, and the DTVPal both have a special TVGOS mode built in to them that will convert the digital legacy data back to analog. It then transmits it over channel 3, or 4, to a legacy device such as the Sony, or a number of analog only devices. This data is supposed to be identical to the pre-transition analog data that was being transmitted. Because of this, even though the digital data in your area is broken, the legacy data can be used to recover a grid. That is all you would use either of these devices for, is to get your grid back on your non-working DVR. Once you have a grid, you would disconnect the device, and not have to use it again, unless you lose the grid again.

Mark

Mark,

Thanks for all your knowledge and if you ever down in my area, I wll buy you lunch.

Eddie

Sorry for the areas not working.:mad:

Here in the NYC DMA (OTA only) the sonys are working perfectly.:D

Where's the HDD 350 and HDD 1000 already;)

Mark,

Thanks for all your knowledge and if you ever down in my area, I wll buy you lunch.

Eddie

Thanks for the offer, but your DVR still doesn't have a grid, although you did get your clock to set. Also, I would have to stop along the way and pick up some of the people that I accumulated this knowledge from, like avnstf, bwall23, Frank70, jtbell, PhillyC, Possumgirl, spiff72, and WS65711, just to name a few. I'm not sure my car would hold them all :p.

Mark

Thanks for the offer, but your DVR still doesn't have a grid, although you did get your clock to set. Also, I would have to stop along the way and pick up some of the people that I accumulated this knowledge from, like avnstf, bwall23, Frank70, jtbell, PhillyC, Possumgirl, spiff72, and WS65711, just to name a few. I'm not sure my car would hold them all :p.

Mark

Sound like we need to have a party. LOL

I had CableCards installed in all four of my TVGOS devices this afternoon (three HDD500's and one Mits TV). This caused me to lose HostChans and Grids from all of the DVR's. The Mits TV still had it's Grid and Listings when I looked, although that wasn't until about an hour after installation (so maybe it was rebuilt by then?).

I know that at least two of my DVR's (as well as the Mits) had HostChans currently set. I'm not sure about HostChan on the third, but all units had full listings. My HostChans had been setting about every 16 days, and staying set for 3 to 4 days. I know that one of the DVR's had set its HostChan on 10/8, and one set on 10/17. I had not been paying close attention to the third DVR, so I don't know when it set last. I do know that they all seemed to be totally independent of each other, even though they all had access to the same signal sources (OTA and Cable).

It will be interesting to see how long it takes each of them to re-aquire the HostChan and Grid (hopefully soon :)).

If anyone is interested, the reason I decided to put CableCards in these units is because Charter in my area killed all of the HD QAM channels that I had access to for the past four years, with the exception of the HD locals. :eek: So I'll give the Cablecards a try for a while to see how they work out. :D

This is my email I just got from TV guide.

It is unfortunate to here you are having issues with your Tv guide. WJWJ Is Broadcasting in your area properly, and everything data wise looks good. We can definitely assist you in getting you up and running, but first we will need some additional information. Please reply to this email with the following information:

Device make and model number:
set up type( cable ready, cable card, Over the air.. etc):
cable provider:

Thank you
Windsor lindor

And my answer:

Mr.Lindor,

Sir, I sorry to tell you things are not up and running here in Beaufor, SC. First of all I have to use a Savannah zip code 31322 to just get the clock to set. Before the analog shut down I used 29906, my Beaufort zip code. With 29906 I never got a host ID now with 31322 I do get a host Id 0x65. I understand we need a host channel to just get the grid and it is blank. I have two Sony DHG-HDD250's which both have been firmware upgrades and A Sony HDTV KDL-46V4100, all use the TV guide. I only want to get back to where we were before the analog shut down when everything was working normal. Tell me what you need from the 753.... screens and I will furnish them to you. I'm only over the air and do have satellite but no cable.

Eddie

This is my email I just got from TV guide.

It is unfortunate to here you are having issues with your Tv guide. WJWJ Is Broadcasting in your area properly, and everything data wise looks good. We can definitely assist you in getting you up and running, but first we will need some additional information. Please reply to this email with the following information:

Device make and model number:
set up type( cable ready, cable card, Over the air.. etc):
cable provider:

Thank you
Windsor lindor

And my answer:

Mr.Lindor,

Sir, I sorry to tell you things are not up and running here in Beaufor, SC. First of all I have to use a Savannah zip code 31322 to just get the clock to set. Before the analog shut down I used 29906, my Beaufort zip code. With 29906 I never got a host ID now with 31322 I do get a host Id 0x65. I understand we need a host channel to just get the grid and it is blank. I have two Sony DHG-HDD250's which both have been firmware upgrades and A Sony HDTV KDL-46V4100, all use the TV guide. I only want to get back to where we were before the analog shut down when everything was working normal. Tell me what you need from the 753.... screens and I will furnish them to you. I'm only over the air and do have satellite but no cable.

Eddie

Eddie,

Keep the emails going with TVGOS (Rovi). The one you just posted should be “one” of two or three that you get – just before you enter “The Twilight Zone”.

I made only a little progress and will leave it at that until something significant results.

If many of us conversed with Rovi across the USA, then perhaps they may take an interest. Both parties (Sony and Rovi) have to recognize they have lost something in order to turn around and make it gain. So far neither party feels they have lost anything dropping support for the DHG-HDD250/500.

Eddie,

Keep the emails going with TVGOS (Rovi). The one you just posted should be “one” of two or three that you get – just before you enter “The Twilight Zone”.

I made only a little progress and will leave it at that until something significant results.

If many of us conversed with Rovi across the USA, then perhaps they may take an interest. Both parties (Sony and Rovi) have to recognize they have lost something in order to turn around and make it gain. So far neither party feels they have lost anything dropping support for the DHG-HDD250/500.

I just email several 753... screen photos for this gentleman to look at this morning.

I just email several 753... screen photos for this gentleman to look at this morning.

I'm curious, did someone at Rovi request those screen shots, and, if so, what screens did they want you to send?

Mark

I'm curious, did someone at Rovi request those screen shots, and, if so, what screens did they want you to send?

Mark

No, I just took pictures of what I thought was necessary for them to look at. I haven't heard back from them today.

Eddie

Alright, alright . . . It's been over 24 hours and I still don't have my Grids back yet. :rolleyes:

What's Rovi think this is? Houston or something? :mad:

Alright, alright . . . It's been over 24 hours and I still don't have my Grids back yet. :rolleyes:

What's Rovi think this is? Houston or something? :mad:

It prolly is Houston!

Here: Currently on NumSearch 7 – 2 days in; no HostChannel, but full 8 days. 0x05 and 0xe68 same ole thing.

WS in one of your previous post I think you said or your figures indicated that your HostChannel will set about once every 10 days? Is that correct?

Do your Sony Boxes have clock and ads now with the cable cards? If so, is that set of “00000” instructions running in the ad block?

WS in one of your previous post I think you said or your figures indicated that your HostChannel will set about once every 10 days? Is that correct?

Do your Sony Boxes have clock and ads now with the cable cards? If so, is that set of “00000” instructions running in the ad block?

I don't remember saying anything about "10 days" (unless it was a typo). Mine have been setting the HostChan about every 16 days, although the three DVR's are NOT in sync with each other on setting the Hosts. One unit had last set on 10/8, and the other two units had last set on 10/17. I do know that one of the units that set on 10/17 had been "due" to set on 10/8, but missed that "set" for some reason unknown to me.

I'm not sure if I have ads or not........ I'll have to look tonight. As of last night I still had no Grids. I didn't check for Grids this morning.

Edit: Ok...... I looked and I do have ads. These include some Bose ads, some for TV shows, and 2 or 3 different TVGOS ads. But none of the TVGOS ads is the one about "00000".

As of this evening I still have no Grids.........

[...]
I'm not sure if I have ads or not........ I'll have to look tonight. As of last night I still had no Grids. I didn't check for Grids this morning.

Do your screens say "No data for this screen", or do they say "Data will be available in 24 hours" (or something to that effect)? Have you tried going to the search screen and searching for programs? I'm wondering, since you had the grids before, if the DVRs aren't just hiding the grid because of the configuration change?

Mark

The screen says to wait 24 hours (see attachment)........ I was wondering if the data could possibly be hiding from me.

I tried a search after I saw your post, and program titles do appear in the search results.

So what else do you suggest to try to get the Grids to display? I tried the suggestion in the post linked here ( http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=17313923&postcount=19033 ) but that didn't get me a Grid. It did however clear the values out of all fields including TimeZonePkts, etc. which had maintained their counts after the insertion of the CableCards.

The screen says to wait 24 hours (see attachment)........ I was wondering if the data could possibly be hiding from me.

I tried a search after I saw your post, and program titles do appear in the search results.

So what else do you suggest to try to get the Grids to display? I tried the suggestion in the post linked here ( http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=17313923&postcount=19033 ) but that didn't get me a Grid. It did however clear the values out of all fields including TimeZonePkts, etc. which had maintained their counts after the insertion of the CableCards.

This is the same issue that c03bra had. He finally reset his DVR, and I don't believe he ever got a grid back. You may just have to wait the 16 days for your host channel to set, I think that is really what it is waiting for. I believe the reason the unplug/re-plug thing has worked for me, is because, for whatever reason, after changing the Cable + OTA, back to OTA only, it blanked the host channel, and hid the grid, yet when I unplugged and replugged, the host channel immediately set to what it had been previously, and my grid came back (I have done this a couple of times). The last power outage that I had here, in September, did not restore the host channel, and it remained blank. I have no idea why the host channel is sometimes restored after you remove and reapply power (I have even had the host channel say that it was 1:0-12, when I hadn't even had cable enabled for a few days).

Mark

Update:

My Mits TV (TVGOS V-9.1.56) which did not lose it's Grid when the CableCard was installed, has apparently updated itself automatically. Last night it prompted me to "select the Cable provider" from the two possible choices in my area. After I made the selection the channel numbers in the Lineup were updated with the proper "CableCard" channel numbers, instead of the prior QAM channel numbers.

I also noticed that the HDD500 that I unplugged/replugged last night no longer displays any programs in the Search screen. These were apparently lost with the unplug. This morning the TimeZonePkts on this machine was at qty 10, and LineUpPkts was still at Qty 0. :(

I am considering doing a TVGuide reset soon on one of the units . . . . . In the past (like right after June 12th) I could get a grid in 3 to 6 days after a reset. Having had the CableCards installed Monday evening, I will be at the 3 day point this evening.

Edit: This evening (Thursday) I did a 9012 TVGuide Reset on one of the DVR's. So now I have one that simply had the CableCard installed, one that has been unplugged/plugged, and one that has been 9012 TVGuide Reset.

Hello,
I am new to this setup stuff so please bear with me if I ask any really basic questions. My unit would lock up if I turned it on when it was recording so I performed the following as described on SpiffSPACE:
- Turn off the DVR
- Perform a full channel scan. This will take some time, and after the scan, you should have zero channels.
- Perform the 9012 "Reset User Configuration" (see Sections 1.2.16 and 1.2.8) - the DVR will reboot
- Rescan the antenna channels (if you have one connected)
- Perform the 9012 menu, TVGOS - "Reset to Factory Default" - This will delete all future scheduled recordings and delete any channel reordering that was done. WARNING - this is the one under the TVGOS menu in the 9012 menu, NOT THE ONE IN THE FIRST LEVEL OF THE 9012 menu - choosing the wrong one WILL DELETE ALL RECORDED PROGRAMS.
- Make sure that you haven't removed the host channel from your +/- channel list OR your TVGOS channel editor (don't turn it off in the channel editor)
- Redo the TVGOS setup (enter your zip code, etc)
- Leave the DVR off overnight so it can reacquire the guide

This morning I have no data in the grid and the time is about 30 minutes fast. The add area says TV Guide.
I went into the TV Guide debug screen as described on this forum and the following settings are:
Host State 0x80
HostId 0x80
Host Chan blank
VBI Chan 0:10-1
SU Chg 1/1/04 0:00:48

Before all this started I had applied the 1.2.21 update and had been receiving TV Guide data successfully. I did verify that was still the version after I performed the reset steps above.

Can anyone please help me get the guide data back? Do you need more info from me?

Thank you very much,
Rob

The screen says to wait 24 hours (see attachment)........ I was wondering if the data could possibly be hiding from me.

I tried a search after I saw your post, and program titles do appear in the search results.

So what else do you suggest to try to get the Grids to display? I tried the suggestion in the post linked here ( http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=17313923&postcount=19033 ) but that didn't get me a Grid. It did however clear the values out of all fields including TimeZonePkts, etc. which had maintained their counts after the insertion of the CableCards.


Oh wow, that's just crazy. I have never seen that 24 hr. screen here in Houston?..........but before when my Sony had no ads, the "one" ad that did come in was to use the "00000" routine; but once the Grid came in the "00000" message went away.

This is my last response from TV guide:

The KDL he refers to is my Sony KDL-46V4100 TV.

Hello,

I apologize for the wait. As a test lets see what kind of data you are getting using your home ZIP to do this reset the sony KDL. we will use that model due to the fact that the DHG model with the firm ware is not supported by us. but if we can get the kdl working properly hopefully that will solve your issues

reset instructions

remove any splitters and connect cable directly to device

1. Open TV Guide On Screen.

2. Highlight SETUP on the service bar.

3. From SETUP, down arrow once to highlight “Change System Settings.”(do not select anything)

4. With the highlight on “Change System Settings,” enter 653274147

using the number keys on their remote.(you will not see any numbers appear on the screen)



At the end of the sequence it should boot you out of the guide or go black for a moment

once the reset set up the TVGOS to use your home ZIP after this is done please leave the device powered off with no recording between 11:45pm - 6:00am.



If your Guide has not returned, attached you will find a Word document on collecting diagnostics. Please follow the instructions, fill out and send back.

Also are you now trying to receive our data over the air or is it just satellite

Thank you

Eddie, please keep us posted as to what goes on with Rovi. So far pretty much follows the same response I got from Rovi, here in Houston..........the DHG is not supported.

Eddie, please keep us posted as to what goes on with Rovi. So far pretty much follows the same response I got from Rovi, here in Houston..........the DHG is not supported.

This was my response to him:



Mr. Windsor Lindor,

Thanks for your response on this matter. I have done your request and will have the set off between the hours you requested. I didn't receive a word document attachment with your last email. I do have one question about the DHG firmware. Sony furnish a firmware update several months back to take care of this problem, version 1.2.21. If you read the AVS forums, many are having success with your guide since Sonys firmware update. Why then are there's working but other are not? I will list two forums you might like to go back and read there post.

Eddie

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=537711&page=640

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=510125&page=80

Since you can search for shows, and it finds them, I think it is just hiding the grid from you. This trick might work for you. Unplug the DVR from the wall, and then plug it back in. Let it go through its startup process, and then when it is done, turn the DVR back on, and see if the grid is there.

Mark

Here is what I was talking about...

My host is blank, I have a grid, and the TVGOS was configured for OTA only. I went into the TVGOS setup and re-configured it for Cable + OTA. Upon exiting the setup, my TVGOS screen looked like Pic 1. I then went back into the TVGOS setup, and re-configured back to OTA only. On exiting, the TVGOS screen was the same (please wait 24 hours...). I powered off the DVR, and unplugged, and then plugged it back in. After the initialization, I turned on the DVR, and tuned to my host station, in order to set the clock (I wanted the "grid" picture to show the correct time). While I waited, I took Pic 2, showing my blank host channel (notice the clock is still off). I said yesterday that I have seen where the host channel is set at this point, but not today. After the clock set, I took Pic 3 which shows the restored grid. Notice in that picture the current channel shows as "AIR". I am actually tuned to my host channel, but ROVI doesn't map that channel correctly. I have to manually change it to the correct channel (which it was before I started). Which means that the unplug/replug actually caused my channel lineup to change to "default", leaving my host channel mapped incorrectly. I can't explain this, but this is why I suggest to people who apparently have a grid populatiing in the background to try unplugging, and replugging the DVR.

Mark

Mark -

Yours behaved differently than mine. In picture 3 your DVR has obviously maintained the listings after the unplug/plug routine, as the Grid is filled in. In my case, not only did my Grid fail to appear, but the "hidden listings" that were there (as proven earlier by a "search") before the unplug/plug routine were in fact gone after the unplug/plug. :(

I had a strange occurrence on one of my 500s last night. I could not tune to any channel, got the "now tuning - no signal" messages. Tried a rescan and it didn't pick up any digital channels at all. Had to do a soft front panel reset. Did another channel rescan and the channels came back. However, after doing all this, I lost my grid. So now I have the Artec hooked up again. This was the same one that lost the grid about a month ago.

Any thoughts as to why I couldn't tune in any channels and why I lost the grid after doing a soft reset? I never lost grid in the past after a soft reset.

Mark -

Yours behaved differently than mine. In picture 3 your DVR has obviously maintained the listings after the unplug/plug routine, as the Grid is filled in. In my case, not only did my Grid fail to appear, but the "hidden listings" that were there (as proven earlier by a "search") before the unplug/plug routine were in fact gone after the unplug/plug. :(

I decided to do the same thing again, only this time I'm not unplugging it. I'm just going to see at what point the grid comes back on its own. We'll see if I have to wait for my host channel to set, or if it will come back before then. I'm guessing that my host channel will have to set, before I see the grid again. I'm also going to check and see if the (invisible) grid is filling in every night by searching for something 8 days out... I'm not sure what I'll search for yet.

Mark

This is my last response from TV guide:

The KDL he refers to is my Sony KDL-46V4100 TV.

[...]


Eddie,

I didn't realize you have a TV with TVGOS built-in that isn't working either. Maybe they will at least get it working for you. Did you try out the Savannah zip code with it before contacting them?

Mark

Update:

My Mits TV (TVGOS V-9.1.56) which did not lose it's Grid when the CableCard was installed, has apparently updated itself automatically. Last night it prompted me to "select the Cable provider" from the two possible choices in my area. After I made the selection the channel numbers in the Lineup were updated with the proper "CableCard" channel numbers, instead of the prior QAM channel numbers.

I also noticed that the HDD500 that I unplugged/replugged last night no longer displays any programs in the Search screen. These were apparently lost with the unplug. This morning the TimeZonePkts on this machine was at qty 10, and LineUpPkts was still at Qty 0. :(

I am considering doing a TVGuide reset soon on one of the units . . . . . In the past (like right after June 12th) I could get a grid in 3 to 6 days after a reset. Having had the CableCards installed Monday evening, I will be at the 3 day point this evening.

Edit: This evening (Thursday) I did a 9012 TVGuide Reset on one of the DVR's. So now I have one that simply had the CableCard installed, one that has been unplugged/plugged, and one that has been 9012 TVGuide Reset.

This morning (Friday) before leaving for my office, I checked the "9012 Reset" HDD500 and found that both the TimeZonePkts and the LineupPkts had incremented overnight. They had been set to "0" by the 9012 Reset.

I then checked the unplugged/plugged HDD500 and found that although the TimeZonePkts had incremented on each of the 2 days since the unplug/plug, the LineupPkts were still stuck at zero. On this HDD500, all of these fields had been set to "0" by the unplug/plug operation. I decided to go ahead and do a "9012 TVGuide Reset" on this DVR also, since I would much rather see the LineupPkts increment instead of sitting on zero. :eek:

My third HDD500 is still displaying the "Wait 24 Hours Message". It has had no "procedures" performed on it subsequent to the insertion of the CableCard.

Edit: At noon today (I work a short day on Fridays :D) I decided to do the "9012 TVGuide Reset" on my 3rd HDD500. This one is actually my primary unit, located in the family room and connected to my 65" Mits (circa 2002 museum piece :eek:). I've waited almost 96 hours since the CableCard install on Monday, and the screen only said to wait 24 hours. I'm tired of waiting . . . :rolleyes:

No ads and No listings

Well after getting full “8 days” for almost two weeks (with no HostChannel), Rovi pulled the plug again.

HostSUFlags is still 0xe68, about 2.5 days into NumSearch 7, and VBIState has toggled to 0x04……the VBIState of 0x07 and 0x08 are not to be found in Houston (unless I hook up the Artec).

The picture is Day 8, the first 7 days are still in the box.

Eddie,

I didn't realize you have a TV with TVGOS built-in that isn't working either. Maybe they will at least get it working for you. Did you try out the Savannah zip code with it before contacting them?

Mark

Yes I did try Savannah and got ads. Also host id but not guide. I put it back to 29906 like he requested and its back like it was before. He said he send me an attachment to fill out, I never received it. I'm waiting to hear from him.

I thought I listed somewhere I had two Sony DVR's and a Sony HDTV that used the guide. Sony says they are working on a firmware update and I'm not holding my breathe.

Eddie

............ Sony says they are working on a firmware update and I'm not holding my breath.

Eddie

Another update for the HDD500's or an update for your TV?

another update for the hdd500's or an update for your tv?

tv

Hi,

I performed a reset to fix a lock up problem and lost my gird. After 2 days nothing has changed and my host channel is still blank. I called CBS and they said they broadcast the TVGOS info. I only use and antenna, no cable.

Can someone point me to some instructions how to get my guide to rebuild from this scenario?

PS - When I tune to CBS and to the VBI test the VBI test fails and I don't get any VBI packets. I was getting a working guide before I did the reset.

Thank you,
Rob

Hi,

I performed a reset to fix a lock up problem and lost my gird. After 2 days nothing has changed and my host channel is still blank. I called CBS and they said they broadcast the TVGOS info. I only use and antenna, no cable.

Can someone point me to some instructions how to get my guide to rebuild from this scenario?

PS - When I tune to CBS and to the VBI test the VBI test fails and I don't get any VBI packets. I was getting a working guide before I did the reset.

Thank you,
Rob

Post which city you are in........TVGOS operates different in every city; peeps can help a little better then.


Do you have a Grid? yes or no
Does the Sony Box have the correct time?
Does it have ads?

Are you on the Sony .21 software?

Post which city you are in........TVGOS operates different in every city; peeps can help a little better then.


Do you have a Grid? yes or no
Does the Sony Box have the correct time?
Does it have ads?

Are you on the Sony .21 software?


I am in La Crosse, WI. CBS said they transmit the TVGOS data on 8.1

1) No Grid - Just the no data message
2) Sony box time - Stuck at 12:17AM (Grid time blank --)
3) Only the TV guide ads in both boxes.
4) I am on the .21 software

The Sony unit has been powered off for most of the day.
Thank you!

When I tune to CBS and to the VBI test the VBI test fails and I don't get any VBI packets. I was getting a working guide before I did the reset.


You have the .21 firmware. With that firmware version the VBI test only works with an analog station. For a digital station use the "753" menu to view the ATSC Slicer screen. This screen will show data counts incrementing "live" when there is data coming in.

Instructions to get to "753" menu ---> http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=16753313&postcount=17964

I have given up on Boise ever getting TVGO so I am going to sell my 250 and 500. Both in great shape and manuals and remotes included. Going to sell through Ebay but offering them here first. Please send me a private email if you are interested.

You have the .21 firmware. With that firmware version the VBI test only works with an analog station. For a digital station use the "753" menu to view the ATSC Slicer screen. This screen will show data counts incrementing "live" when there is data coming in.

Instructions to get to "753" menu ---> http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=16753313&postcount=17964

The TVG, Dummy, and Good c amounts were incrementing. Some of the other amounts had numbers in them but didn't increment as I was watching.

Is that good? I'm hoping the TVG is for TVGOS.
Thanks!

I don't know if these numbers will help anyone, but I had some free time this week. Cable input only, three DHD's, using .13 firmware and all have a cold start time that differs by a few hours due to a long power failure early last month.

Clock sets: 10 per day at the same time (to the second)
Zip sets: 40 per day
TZ sets: 4 per day

I have a full grid and listings for enabled analog channels. Host is channel 15 analog C-SPAN and is disabled in Sony channel preferences. I'd show C-SPAN programs in the TVG listings if I enable it in the TVG channels, but I only do manual recordings these days since I don't use a cable card. Above updates work UNLESS I am recording or watching a recording. Otherwise the units can be on or in standby mode and channel tuned to has no effect. I have a host channel, so that's probably why some of these observations may be different if you don't have a host channel. Next week I'll try to collect stats on grids and listings or any other counter someone is interested in.

The TVG, Dummy, and Good c amounts were incrementing. Some of the other amounts had numbers in them but didn't increment as I was watching.

Is that good? I'm hoping the TVG is for TVGOS.
Thanks!

Good C is good. The fact that values are incrementing is good.

Now go back to the "753" menu and look for the SectionReception-VBI page. Check to see that your LineupPkt and TimezonePkts fields have values other than zero. You probably won't see these update "live", although one time I did actually witness a live update in those fields.

This is the SectionReception-VBI page, which shows the LineupPkt and TimezonePkts fields
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=145734&d=1245362942

To anyone who has acquired a Grid by the analog videotape method -

Does it make any difference what time of day (or night) you run the tape? Will the HDDxxx only be in the "right" state of mind to receive that data in the middle of the night?

I have given up on Boise ever getting TVGO so I am going to sell my 250 and 500. Both in great shape and manuals and remotes included. Going to sell through Ebay but offering them here first. Please send me a private email if you are interested.

A 250 sold last week for $355. There are none posted as of this time. And the traffic here is low. That means most have given up, or are happy. Best of luck.

Can't live without the guide? There are ways to set a clock if you have a VCR. But you do what you have to do that's best for you. I'll keep mine until they stop working.

Good C is good. The fact that values are incrementing is good.

Now go back to the "753" menu and look for the SectionReception-VBI page. Check to see that your LineupPkt and TimezonePkts fields have values other than zero. You probably won't see these update "live", although one time I did actually witness a live update in those fields.

This is the SectionReception-VBI page, which shows the LineupPkt and TimezonePkts fields


Both values are 0. Pretty much the whole page is either 0 or NA. There was one field I think without a 0 value. Is this bad? It hasn't been overnight yet since my last reset which I did this morning. Thanks!

To anyone who has acquired a Grid by the analog videotape method -

Does it make any difference what time of day (or night) you run the tape? Will the HDDxxx only be in the "right" state of mind to receive that data in the middle of the night?

I could spend a lot of time on this, but the short answer is yes (except for the part about WHEN you use it - it doesn't matter). But I built an analog grid from cable source tapes. I have a lot of tapes. I'm trying to find the method that makes the unit work with the fewest tapes. Biggest issue is that the time on the tape will be used. That will mean your listings will be useless, as will using the TVG to make a recording futile. If you want a real nice "VCR", then tapes can be considered. Otherwise, forget it. A tape can get you TVGOS updates and a clock. It can give you a grid, but why bother? No listings would would apply. And a grid that says "No Listings" every 30 minutes isn't much fun. I've heard that not having a grid prevents manual recordings, but I have no proof of that. My LST-3410A does manual recordings without a grid. I may try next week, kill everything then try a manual recording after a channel scan but before the Zip, Clock or TZ get set. I don't know if that is possible. But I will try.

Both values are 0. Pretty much the whole page is either 0 or NA. There was one field I think without a 0 value. Is this bad? It hasn't been overnight yet since my last reset which I did this morning. Thanks!

Yes, that is bad. Don't do any more resets! Every time you reset and the counters go back to zero, data is lost. Then your DVR takes just that much more time to recover and acquire the HostChan (at which time the Grid will appear). It will probably take at least 3 days for you to acquire the HostChan. Probably longer . . . . . :eek:

Yes, that is bad. Don't do any more resets! Every time you reset and the counters go back to zero, data is lost. Then your DVR takes just that much more time to recover and acquire the HostChan (at which time the Grid will appear). It will probably take at least 3 days for you to acquire the HostChan. Probably longer . . . . . :eek:

When should I see some of the diagnostic numbers change so I know it's headed in the right direction?

My version number is 0 for the patches. Should that be the first things that changes, probably overnight? What other things can I look at?

Thanks again!

I could spend a lot of time on this, but the short answer is yes (except for the part about WHEN you use it - it doesn't matter). But I built an analog grid from cable source tapes. I have a lot of tapes. I'm trying to find the method that makes the unit work with the fewest tapes. Biggest issue is that the time on the tape will be used. That will mean your listings will be useless, as will using the TVG to make a recording futile. If you want a real nice "VCR", then tapes can be considered. Otherwise, forget it. A tape can get you TVGOS updates and a clock. It can give you a grid, but why bother? No listings would would apply. And a grid that says "No Listings" every 30 minutes isn't much fun. I've heard that not having a grid prevents manual recordings, but I have no proof of that. My LST-3410A does manual recordings without a grid. I may try next week, kill everything then try a manual recording after a channel scan but before the Zip, Clock or TZ get set. I don't know if that is possible. But I will try.

My clocks do set quickly by themselves. And I have acquired Grids twice from "Restore Factory Defaults" shortly after June 12th. Back then it took 3 to 6 days to get from "Restore Factory Defaults" to Grid.

But lately, my HostChan has only been setting approximately every 16 days. I had CableCards (in three units) installed on Monday 10/20, and lost my Grid on each unit. I would like to get my Grid back quicker than 16 days, at least on my primary DVR. I have 3 DVR tapes that I made prior to June 12th.

BUT....... A potential issue is that my Channel Lineup has effectively changed now, from what it was when I made the tapes. At the time the tapes were made I was OTA and QAM, but now I'm OTA and CableCard. So I'm not positive that using the tape will be of much benefit anyway . . .

When should I see some of the diagnostic numbers change so I know it's headed in the right direction?

My version number is 0 for the patches. Should that be the first things that changes, probably overnight? What other things can I look at?

Thanks again!

Your version number needs to be 8.01.71/8.06.44/0.00.00 (this is from my faulty memory!!!)

If you don't see the "8.06.44" it may take you 2 days or so to get that. The other fields won't start to update until the patch level is right. Some of the fields change seldom to never. When TimezonePkts and LineupPkts start to change you are headed in the right direction.

My clocks do set quickly by themselves. And I have acquired Grids twice from "Restore Factory Defaults" shortly after June 12th. Back then it took 3 to 6 days from "Restore Factory Defaults" to Grid.

But lately, my HostChan has only been setting approximately every 16 days. I had CableCards (in three units) installed on Monday 10/20, and lost my Grid on each unit. I would like to get my Grid back quicker than 16 days, at least on my primary DVR. I have 3 DVR tapes that I made prior to June 12th.

BUT....... A potential issue is that my Channel Lineup has effectively changed now, from what it was when I made the tapes. At the time the tapes were made I was OTA and QAM, but now I'm OTA and CableCard. So I'm not positive that using the tape will be of much benefit anyway . . .

You're right, the tapes you made will never give you a host channel. That's because the DHD will see channel 3 (from the VCR) as a host channel. I don't know how long it takes from losing one host channel to finding another, should you try the tapes you have. My lineup has changed almost every month, with "trial channels" being added, and a lot of channels moving south. Even my local HD channels have moved. It's the price I "pay" for no CC: a lot of rescans.

The tape will supply, should you need it, the TVGOS updates.

Your version number needs to be 8.01.71/8.06.44/0.00.00 (this is from my faulty memory!!!)

If you don't see the "8.06.44" it may take you 2 days or so to get that. The other fields won't start to update until the patch level is right. Some of the fields change seldom to never. When TimezonePkts and LineupPkts start to change you are headed in the right direction.

Ok, I'll check the version number tomorrow morning. After my first reset yesterday, it did get one update overnight. Then I found the TVGOS recovery doc by mabuttra and decided to follow his steps and did my second reset. I'll try and be patient and just look for the version number changes for now.

Thanks again!

Post which city you are in........TVGOS operates different in every city; peeps can help a little better then.


Do you have a Grid? yes or no
Does the Sony Box have the correct time?
Does it have ads?

Are you on the Sony .21 software?

Wow, if I didn't know better, I'd think we were in the same city. No listings here overnight either on my analog DVR. I was in the middle of an experiment on my Sony, but from the looks of it, it didn't get hardly any data today. I've abandoned my little experiment, until things are working again.

Mark

[...]
I then checked the unplugged/plugged HDD500 and found that although the TimeZonePkts had incremented on each of the 2 days since the unplug/plug, the LineupPkts were still stuck at zero. On this HDD500, all of these fields had been set to "0" by the unplug/plug operation.
[...]


My LineupPkts seem to die for days on end. A lot of times after my host channel blanks, I'll get no Timezone packets, and no lineup packets for two days. Then the third day I'll get both, and my host channel will set. It's interesting that doing the reset seemed to wake up your Lineup packets (while your other DVR stayed at 0).

Mark

Yes I did try Savannah and got ads. Also host id but not guide. I put it back to 29906 like he requested and its back like it was before. He said he send me an attachment to fill out, I never received it. I'm waiting to hear from him.

I thought I listed somewhere I had two Sony DVR's and a Sony HDTV that used the guide. Sony says they are working on a firmware update and I'm not holding my breathe.

Eddie

I think it is a good sign, that your TV didn't work with the Savannah zip code. It appears that your TV also needs the missing HostSchedule packets. Which tells me that the only way Rovi can fix your TV is to figure out why the HostSchedule packets aren't getting sent out from your host station. If they do that, then that should also fix your DVR problems.

Mark

[...]
BUT....... A potential issue is that my Channel Lineup has effectively changed now, from what it was when I made the tapes. At the time the tapes were made I was OTA and QAM, but now I'm OTA and CableCard. So I'm not positive that using the tape will be of much benefit anyway . . .

I have wondered about this same thing. For example, let's say that I unplugged my DVR (with a grid), and move it to Houston. When I plug it back in, I find that the grid is still there. The question is, would I ever be able to get a Houston channel lineup, without setting the host channel? Could I just manually change the channel numbers on all my Wichita stations over to the equivalent Houston channels, and get listings? Or would I have a DVR with a grid that would never get listings (assuming the host channel would never set)?

Mark

To anyone who has acquired a Grid by the analog videotape method -

Does it make any difference what time of day (or night) you run the tape? Will the HDDxxx only be in the "right" state of mind to receive that data in the middle of the night?

Remember, when you reset the DVR it has no idea what time it is. It relies on the TVGOS data to tell it what time it is. If you play back a tape that had been recorded overnight, then that is what time the DVR would think it was. However, if you play back the tape during the day, you might want to pull the curtains so the DVR doesn't get confused. :D:D:D

Mark

Remember, when you reset the DVR it has no idea what time it is. It relies on the TVGOS data to tell it what time it is. If you play back a tape that had been recorded overnight, then that is what time the DVR would think it was. However, if you play back the tape during the day, you might want to pull the curtains so the DVR doesn't get confused. :D:D:D

Mark

Thanks Mark. I needed that. I'm taping from 5am to 8am this week to get EDT clock sets. After 11/1 I'll do the same for EST. But I will keep the drapes pulled, just in case.

I have wondered about this same thing. For example, let's say that I unplugged my DVR (with a grid), and move it to Houston. When I plug it back in, I find that the grid is still there. The question is, would I ever be able to get a Houston channel lineup, without setting the host channel? Could I just manually change the channel numbers on all my Wichita stations over to the equivalent Houston channels, and get listings? Or would I have a DVR with a grid that would never get listings (assuming the host channel would never set)?

Mark

I'm chatty tonight. First there are Sony things: Time Zone, clock and DST. Those are sent periodically. Second there are TVG things, like Host and Zipcode. Moving within the same time zone isn't a big thing. Moving to a different time zone means you need TVGOS to set your clock and UTC offset. And then there is the zipcode. I believe that a provider sends the zip code which must match what you set in the HDD or the lineup/listing packets will be ignored. There are a lot of invalid zipcodes (USPS Sorting Centers), but we all like 00000. I bought my last DHD from the central time zone and it was not wiped. It had the old lineup and listings. The listings went to "no listing" gradually, and finally only the (wrong) channel numbers remained. It was an interesting situation. I finally wiped the unit. I believe that any source, cable or OTA, sends zipcode packets that tell the DHD it can use the data for its guide. My cable company has two "feeds" and I always get asked to decide. That decision always gets me a lineup and listings immediatly. I guess the DHD can hold a lot, since I have 510 channels in my lineup (but only 22 enabled). If I enter a zipcode that my provider does not support I will not get listings. Ever.

Could you explain something for me? What does "change channel numbers" mean? I know I can move a channel and its listings, but it still has the same channel number. It might be in a different position on the grid, but it still has the same channel number.

Could you explain something for me? What does "change channel numbers" mean? I know I can move a channel and its listings, but it still has the same channel number. It might be in a different position on the grid, but it still has the same channel number.

You can edit the channel number assigned to a specific station name to fit your particular situation. The most useful benefit of this feature is when you are using QAM channels on cable. TVGOS has no idea what the QAM channel assignments are, and cable companies often change those assignments frequently in order to make things difficult for viewers . . . . . :rolleyes:

My LineupPkts seem to die for days on end. A lot of times after my host channel blanks, I'll get no Timezone packets, and no lineup packets for two days. Then the third day I'll get both, and my host channel will set. It's interesting that doing the reset seemed to wake up your Lineup packets (while your other DVR stayed at 0).

Mark

In my case, all three DVR's had been unplugged/plugged and subsequently the TimezonePkts and LineupPkts sat on zero for two days (one unit) or four days (two units) until I did the "9012 TVGuide Reset". After the reset, each unit began incrementing those packets within hours of the Reset.

This morning (Saturday) my units continue to increment plenty of packets, but the NumSearch appears to be stuck at "1". Maybe I'll be in business when something comes along to trigger another "Search".

Edit: The DVR that was last to be Reset has TimezonePkts incremented but NOT LineupPkts incremented.

Day Two still no go - TVGOS still "off" in Houston:

No Listings (days 7 & 8) and No Ads

Into day 3 of NumSearch 7 and it took over 24 hours to go from VBIState of 0x04 to 0x05. Indirectly to me this means with Rovi’s extremely limited communications (virtually zero), it ain’t going to work without a VBISate of 0x07, and then to 0x08 in order for HostChannel to set.

Still receiving “two” clock sets per day so time is correct.

Section Memory – Program GC: activity appears correct.

Section Memory – Listings: has been “dead” for 2 days.

In my case, all three DVR's had been unplugged/plugged and subsequently the TimezonePkts and LineupPkts sat on zero for two days (one unit) or four days (two units) until I did the "9012 TVGuide Reset". After the reset, each unit began incrementing those packets within hours of the Reset.

This morning (Saturday) my units continue to increment plenty of packets, but the NumSearch appears to be stuck at "1". Maybe I'll be in business when something comes along to trigger another "Search".

Are you getting any “on screen” messages for “00000” yet?

Does it say “if your channel listings are missing?” click here?

Are you getting any “on screen” messages for “00000” yet?


Nope.

Currently HostSUFlags for two units are at 0xee8, and one unit is at 0xe28. The 0xe28 unit is the one that I didn't "9012 TVGuide Reset" until yesterday afternoon.

According to Mark's HostSUFlags simulator, the two units are still missing "Unknown 1" and "Unknown 3". The third unit (last to be Reset) is missing "Unknown 1", "Unknown 2", "EPP Packet" and "Unknown 3".

Mark............. I just discovered that my post from early this morning (when I was still 3/4 asleep) contained an error. The last DVR that I reset (yesterday afternoon) does NOT have LineupPkts incremented. Could it be possible that "Unknown 2" is LineupPkts?

Mark's HostSUFlags Simulator: http://members.cox.net/mabuttra/tvgos/hostsuflags.htm

Mark..... It would be nice if the Simulator would allow you to toggle bits on/off, instead of having to "Clear All" at once.

Day Two still no go - TVGOS still "off" in Houston:

No Listings (days 7 & 8) and No Ads

Into day 3 of NumSearch 7 and it took over 24 hours to go from VBIState of 0x04 to 0x05. Indirectly to me this means with Rovi’s extremely limited communications (virtually zero), it ain’t going to work without a VBISate of 0x07, and then to 0x08 in order for HostChannel to set.

Still receiving “two” clock sets per day so time is correct.

Section Memory – Program GC: activity appears correct.

Section Memory – Listings: has been “dead” for 2 days.

Pretty much the same here. Only one clock set in the last 14 hours. Last night my ATSC slicer screen was virtually dead (nothing incrementing in CurrChan column). Today there are only 3 rows incrementing (TVG, Tot Sections, and Dummy). It's like they are just sending out empty packets.

Still no Ads, and all counts are 0 in the VBI Stats screen (zip code packets, etc.).

Mark

[...]
This morning (Saturday) my units continue to increment plenty of packets, but the NumSearch appears to be stuck at "1". Maybe I'll be in business when something comes along to trigger another "Search".
[...]


The NumSearch isn't stuck at 1, it won't go to NumSearch 2 for 4 to 5 days. Hopefully you'll have a grid by then and it won't have to go to NumSearch 2.

Mark

[...]
Mark............. I just discovered that my post from early this morning (when I was still 3/4 asleep) contained an error. The last DVR that I reset (yesterday afternoon) does NOT have LineupPkts incremented. Could it be possible that "Unknown 2" is LineupPkts?


For a while I believed that "Unknown 2" was LineupPkts, however Houston is missing "Unknown 2", but HoustonPerson's DVR gets plenty of LineupPkts. I also ran across a set of pictures that I took back in July, where my HostSUFlags was 0xc68 (no "Unknown 2" data) in one picture, and 0xdf8 ("Unknown 2" had been received) in the next picture, however in both sets of pictures my LineupPkts were at 74. :( I believe that LineupPkts are needed before you can get "Unknown 2", but they themselves aren't the "Unknown 2" data. It's like they are combined with some other data to form the "Unknown 2" data.


Mark..... It would be nice if the Simulator would allow you to toggle bits on/off, instead of having to "Clear All" at once.

I intentionally did not make it work that way, since that isn't how the HostSUFlags really works (individual bits do not arbitrarily clear on their own). The only way to clear a bit, is to start a new NumSearch, which clears them all.

However, if you are trying to make the simulator display a certain value, I can see that it could be frustrating to have to keep starting over every time you set the wrong bit. I'll think about adding a new control that allows you to dial up whatever value you want, and then have the simulator display that value. That would allow you to enter the value that is displayed on your screen, and see what info that breaks down to.

Mark

Like Eddie39, my TVGOS service comes from a South Carolina ETV station, three of them in fact: WNTV Greenville, WRET Spartanburg and WNEH Greenwood. After following his problems for a while, I reset TVGOS on one of my Sonys to see if it could still get a grid without help from a DTVPal.

I did the G* factory reset from the 9012 menu on Thursday night. This also wiped out the downloaded version of TVGOS and rolled back to version 8.01.71. Friday morning it had updated to 8.05.40, but the clock still hadn't set. Friday evening around 10:00 PM the clock set. Saturday morning (today) around 9:00 AM the version was still at 8.05.42 and there was no grid. Just now (about 11:30 AM) I happened to look again. There is now a grid and the Host Chan is set to 0:43-0 (WRET's RF channel). Version is still at 8.05.42.

Update, Saturday evening: The program listings have now mostly filled in, with some gaps. I went into the guide setup and changed my Zip code to an out-of-state one because I don't need to have the Host Chan set in order to get program listings, and in fact having the Host Chan set tends to inhibit updated listings, as I've reported before.

Update, Sunday morning: The gaps in the program listings have filled in, and the TVGOS version has updated to 8.06.44.

Can't live without the guide? There are ways to set a clock if you have a VCR.[/SIZE]

Sure it has been stated before but how does that work?

For a while I believed that "Unknown 2" was LineupPkts, however Houston is missing "Unknown 2", but HoustonPerson's DVR gets plenty of LineupPkts. I also ran across a set of pictures that I took back in July, where my HostSUFlags was 0xc68 (no "Unknown 2" data) in one picture, and 0xdf8 ("Unknown 2" had been received) in the next picture, however in both sets of pictures my LineupPkts were at 74. :( I believe that LineupPkts are needed before you can get "Unknown 2", but they themselves aren't the "Unknown 2" data. It's like they are combined with some other data to form the "Unknown 2" data.

I intentionally did not make it work that way, since that isn't how the HostSUFlags really works (individual bits do not arbitrarily clear on their own). The only way to clear a bit, is to start a new NumSearch, which clears them all.

However, if you are trying to make the simulator display a certain value, I can see that it could be frustrating to have to keep starting over every time you set the wrong bit. I'll think about adding a new control that allows you to dial up whatever value you want, and then have the simulator display that value. That would allow you to enter the value that is displayed on your screen, and see what info that breaks down to.

Mark

Or maybe "Unknown 2" is a complete "set" of correct LineupPkts?

Ok great! I'll come back to look for that Simulator modification right after the LSU/Auburn game........ ;)

Day Two still no go - TVGOS still "off" in Houston:

No Listings (days 7 & 8) and No Ads

Into day 3 of NumSearch 7 and it took over 24 hours to go from VBIState of 0x04 to 0x05. Indirectly to me this means with Rovi’s extremely limited communications (virtually zero), it ain’t going to work without a VBISate of 0x07, and then to 0x08 in order for HostChannel to set.

Still receiving “two” clock sets per day so time is correct.

Section Memory – Program GC: activity appears correct.

Section Memory – Listings: has been “dead” for 2 days.
Is this after you had your Artec hooked up? I had to hook up my Artec to get my grid back, but still don't have listings yet.

Is this after you had your Artec hooked up? I had to hook up my Artec to get my grid back, but still don't have listings yet.

I just checked some of my photos to confirm. The Artec was last used and then "disconnected" on 10/11/09. And was receiving full 8 days untl very late Thursday night or around midnight Friday AM.

I should be getting the next NumSearch within the next 12 hours.

We have about 5 programs to watch in the box, and about 18 set to record through next Thursday primetime.

NumSearch 8 has arrived. Still left over Artec Grid, No Listings (day 7 & 8 ), No Ads

Pic 7888: Reached VBIState 0x05 real fast. HostSUFlags still an infant

Pic 7886: Mostly Dummy coming in. Almost no CGood, still zero ads and zero listings

Pic 7885: And yes they killed my box again. It will lock up now --- “Allocated” not equal to “Used Blocks”. If HostChannel does set and replace the Artec Grid, then perhaps a New Grid could be self correcting (maybe)? If HostChannel does set and there is a solid lock up again, I will be "trying" something completely new this time; without the Artec.

.......................Still no Ads, and all counts are 0 in the VBI Stats screen (zip code packets, etc.).


The data seems dead here today too. The unit that I reset at noon yesterday received 20 TimezonePkts between the reset time and 5:00 this morning, but no LineupPkts during that time. None of my units has incremented either of these fields during the day today. It's like if Rovi knew I had those CableCards installed on Monday and that I'm desperately waiting to get my Grids back, so they decided to shut everything down . . . :rolleyes:

To anyone who has acquired a Grid by the analog videotape method -

Does it make any difference what time of day (or night) you run the tape? Will the HDDxxx only be in the "right" state of mind to receive that data in the middle of the night?

It does not matter what time you run the tape. The tape should have been recorded from 1 Am untill 7 am. The dhg will think that it is what ever the tape tells it. The clock will set to whatever time the tape is recorded. I have a vcr tape recorded last January. The ads even are from January. Once you get a grid and remove the vcr the next day the time and listings will be correct.

SS-Stingray

Or maybe "Unknown 2" is a complete "set" of correct LineupPkts?

Ok great! I'll come back to look for that Simulator modification right after the LSU/Auburn game........ ;)

Is the game over? Updated Simulator (http://members.cox.net/mabuttra/tvgos/hostsuflags.htm)

Mark

Mark -

No, the game doesn't start until 6:30pm CDT. So you actually had until about 9:30pm to complete the assigned task. But I'll tell you what..... Since you did such a good job with this (and beat the deadline) why don't you go ahead and take the night off. And you can have tomorrow off too!!! :D
Thanks!


Stingray -

Thanks for the feedback. I'm thinking I'll probably wait a couple of more days to see what happens, since it looks like Rovi is not transmitting any useful data this weekend anyway. Even if I ran the tape right now and got a Grid, I wouldn't get any listings until Rovi decides to bless us with some data packets........ :rolleyes:

I have not heard back from TVGOS since my last email. The email stated that there was an Word document TVGOS diagnostics form he wanted me to fill out and send it back. There was no attachment and I let them know, no response back. I remembered I had these forms from three or four years ago when I was having problems at the time with WVAN, a Georgia station. I have typed it in and will attach it to this post if anyone wants to fill it out and send it to TVGOS. Maybe if they get enough of them, they just might do something about there problems.

Eddie

That form must be designed for the old analog TVGOS. I bet they have a new version for digital TVGOS, using data from the new 753159852 screens that appear in the new Sony software (1.2.21).

That form must be designed for the old analog TVGOS. I bet they have a new version for digital TVGOS, using data from the new 753159852 screens that appear in the new Sony software (1.2.21).

I will post the newer one if he ever sends it to me.

There is a document that Rovi sent to HoustonPerson earlier this month attached to the post linked below..............

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=17312083&postcount=19026

There is a document that Rovi sent to HoustonPerson earlier this month attached to the post linked below..............

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=17312083&postcount=19026

Thanks

I was getting 10 or 20 PPM until 00:30 EDT. It then jumped to the normal 200+ PPM. No ads and no day 8. Looks like Rovi forgot to leave the lights on when they left yesterday. Data should be flowing now. More when I test tomorrow morning.

full 8 days
all ads

5 additional key drops (was 25 now 30) -this and memory conflict are most likely the result of the original Artec Grid not matching what Rovi is sending out for the Digital Normal Grid.

heap info........still have memory conflicts, this is of the "minor" kind will know later today how bad it is.

VBIStat is 0x05
HostSUFlags is all the way to 0xf78 YEAH almost win the lottery!

For the last 4 days the box receives about "4" EPPs per day and "1" DPP per day............what ever those are.

If you are getting you listings back today - Sunday - And you happen to notice and change in your Key Drops, can you please post the results (ie: from "0" to "5", or it stays the same, or ??); if you happen to notice

"Key Drops" is on one page one of the ads sections - last item listed.

Thanks


(IMO KeyDrops should normally be "0" in a correctly working box, if it "increasing" on a regular basis then something is not correct-IMO Grid mis-match)

If you are getting you listings back today - Sunday - And you happen to notice and change in your Key Drops, can you please post the results (ie: from "0" to "5", or it stays the same, or ??); if you happen to notice

"Key Drops" is on one page one of the ads sections - last item listed.

Thanks


(IMO KeyDrops should normally be "0" in a correctly working box, if it "increasing" on a regular basis then something is not correct-IMO Grid mis-match)

Key Drops displays 0. Two out of three units have full ads and listings. One, however, still stops Saturday morning but is getting data. I'm sure is means nothing, but the two with ads were put into standby mode while tuned to the host channel (8 hours ago), the other was not. None of the units has the host channel enabled via the Sony configuration, yet all show correct listings for the channel in the Guide. So I enabled it.

My TVGOS is back up this morning also.

Mark

I got my grid back today with today's listings except for ABC. Thanks for providing me with some troubleshooting. I had done a reset in the hopes of fixing the lockup problem that happens when turning on the unit while it is recording. I have the .21 firmware. The unit starts responding again when the show stops recording. SOmetimes it comes back sooner but it does take more than 10-15 minues.

Does anyone know how to fix the lockup problem?

Thank you,
Rob

Packets are incrementing here too, but still no Grids. The two units that were on "0xee8" are still on "0xee8". The one that had been on "0xe28" is now on "0xe68". It's LineupPkts went from 0 to 19.

Using Mark's Diagnostic/Simulator tool, I can confirm that I had received the EPP packet. Obviously, receiving a few LineupPkts did not set the "Unknown 2" bit.

http://members.cox.net/mabuttra/tvgos/hostsuflags.htm

............listings except for ABC.


Does ABC appear in your Grid?

JoeK

Thanks for the feedback on KeyDrops. “0” is what it should be for a Happy Sony Box.

Ok, more on the memory issues here. Because it is a minor offset, I am not yet getting “full lockup” so will leave it alone until I do. The minor memory issue do create these two anomalies:

1) Somewhat slow remote response.

2) When “in” any of the TVGOS screens (i.e. “listings” etc) and the “tuned channel” is visible in the upper left corner, while recording one channel, and selecting another for playback………the “tuned channel” will freeze on that screen OR have extremely jerky response (the video is not smooth flowing). Once “exit” is hit on the remote to go back to full screen the video becomes smooth again.


Pic 7885: shows the memory off by “1” (allocated not equal to used blocks). When they are equal video is smooth and there are no lock ups or freezes.

Does ABC appear in your Grid?

Yep, ABC is there. It just says 'No Listing' for each timeslot. I got the ABC listings before I reset so I am assuming it will start picking them up.

Do you know of any posts that say how to fix the lockup problem that occurs when the unit gets turned on while a show is recording?

Thanks again

[...]
Do you know of any posts that say how to fix the lockup problem that occurs when the unit gets turned on while a show is recording?

Thanks again

The procedure you did is the only one I know of. I'd let it go for a week, and see if the lock up goes away on its own. That is what happened with this (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=17277721#post17277721) one.

Mark

The procedure you did is the only one I know of. I'd let it go for a week, and see if the lock up goes away on its own. That is what happened with this (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=17277721#post17277721) one.

Mark

Thanks for the reply. I had been having the lock up problem for at least 4 months. Then I did the reset and still have the problem. I will be very happy if it disappears but I'm not too hopeful.

I did the following to do the reset. Did I miss anything? Should I have done the reset that blows away everything?

- Perform a full channel scan.
- Perform the 9012 "Reset User Configuration"
- Rescan the antenna channels
- Perform the 9012 menu, TVGOS - "Reset to Factory Default"
- Redo the TVGOS setup (enter your zip code, etc)
- Leave the DVR off overnight so it can reacquire the guide

My grid came back but alas the lock up still happens. I use only an over the air signal.

Thanks,
Rob

Thanks for the reply. I had been having the lock up problem for at least 4 months. Then I did the reset and still have the problem. I will be very happy if it disappears but I'm not too hopeful.

I did the following to do the reset. Did I miss anything? Should I have done the reset that blows away everything?

- Perform a full channel scan.
- Perform the 9012 "Reset User Configuration"
- Rescan the antenna channels
- Perform the 9012 menu, TVGOS - "Reset to Factory Default"
- Redo the TVGOS setup (enter your zip code, etc)
- Leave the DVR off overnight so it can reacquire the guide

My grid came back but alas the lock up still happens. I use only an over the air signal.

Thanks,
Rob

Did you remove all RF connections to the Unit before the first full channel scan? The purpose of that scan is to end up with no channels.

Did you remove all RF connections to the Unit before the first full channel scan? The purpose of that scan is to end up with no channels.

I believe I did, but now that you ask I'm not 100% sure. The instructions I was following said to do it for cable, but was ambiguous for over the air. If I failed to do that, would it fail to correct the lock up problem for sure?

Thanks for your help

[...]
Pic 7885: And yes they killed my box again. It will lock up now --- “Allocated” not equal to “Used Blocks”.
[...]


I cringe when you make blanket statements like the one above. In the real world of computers, having more memory allocated than is actually used, isn't a problem. Problems happen when you have more memory used than is allocated. Picture 7885 shows you have more memory allocated than is used, so I wouldn't think that this would cause a problem. The last (lock up) picture you posted on spiff space shows that there was more memory used than allocated, which I would say is bad. I've watched that memory screen a few times, and sometimes the allocated, and used is the same, and sometimes they aren't (no lockup either way).


[...]
Ok, more on the memory issues here. Because it is a minor offset, I am not yet getting “full lockup” so will leave it alone until I do. The minor memory issue do create these two anomalies:

1) Somewhat slow remote response.

2) When “in” any of the TVGOS screens (i.e. “listings” etc) and the “tuned channel” is visible in the upper left corner, while recording one channel, and selecting another for playback………the “tuned channel” will freeze on that screen OR have extremely jerky response (the video is not smooth flowing). Once “exit” is hit on the remote to go back to full screen the video becomes smooth again.



I haven't seen symptom 1. I see symptom 2 pretty regularly, but it goes away on its own. I also see a possible 3rd symptom that you didn't mention, and that is the video, when I'm playing back at normal speed, will start to slow down, and stutter, it will stop doing this after about 20 seconds. I don't usually wait until it stops though, I can correct it by pressing pause, and then replay, and then play. It probably does this about once every two weeks or so. I haven't had a lockup since last May, and I use the chase play mode about 3 times a week.

Mark

So it sounds like other people are having guide issues as well? With blocks of "no listings" in their guides. I am too.

If I failed to do that, would it fail to correct the lock up problem for sure?

Yes, when I made the procedure that was the only solution that I found. Getting a scan with no channels appeared to clear out a internal table that linked scanned channel to guide channels.

Also if your guide provider is sending out corrupt data the issue will comeback. For me it only occurs when they add new channels to the available TVguide channel list.

Yes, when I made the procedure that was the only solution that I found. Getting a scan with no channels appeared to clear out a internal table that linked scanned channel to guide channels.

Also if your guide provider is sending out corrupt data the issue will comeback. For me it only occurs when they add new channels to the available TVguide channel list.

It started when I was in Nebraska. Now I live in Wisconsin, so I don't know if I will have a problem here if I successfully clean it up. I will have to try again and make sure I scan and get no channels. My wife is impatient that it was down for several days when I reset it this time so I probably need to wait a couple days before I try it again.

Thanks for your help.