Is there a general issue of CC over component? I found I can only get CC from my Panasonic dvd-r wirh s-video/composite, but nothing shows with component.
I don't think there's a "general" issue with getting CC over component cables. I have my P3 Moto 6412 hooked up to my TV using component cables and I get CC by muting the TV itself. My DVD player is a Panasonic DVD-RV32 and the same things works to get CC while watching DVDs too. I don't use the TV speakers so the TV's mute button is basically a CC On/Off button. The component cable is the only cable going into my TV because I use a component video switching receiver. Is there a CC setting in your DVD player?

If you are worried about signal strength use this procedure:

You can check the actual signal strength (on the digital stations) with the following procedure. Turn the DVR off, then immediately press enter. The diagnostics menu will come up ... go to option 4 (something like D04) and you will be able to see the signal strength for both tuners. Note, tuner two is always less than tuner 1 because it appears that Motorola splits the signal in the DVR again.

Take your splitter out and recheck.

While we are talking about signal strength, can you guys post what you are getting? I'm getting ~33-37db for the 2 tuners, 33 on the worse one. I am using two spliters(one from a TW installation, so I assume it's fine since it came from TW) that goes to my modem, the other splits to my 6412 and the TV tuner. I am in an apartment though, so there isn't much I can do, but I am curious as to how mine compares to some others.

My PQ isn't terrible, but SD I can see pixelation during movement, and HD I can see some as well. I know the networks compress the hell out of the signals(Comcast even claims they don't compress, in an ad I saw in the paper....)

While we are talking about signal strength, can you guys post what you are getting? I'm getting ~33-37db for the 2 tuners, 33 on the worse one.
I haven't checked mine yet but since I'm in the cable business I know that 256QAM requires about 31 dB for a clean signal and 64 QAM requires about 24 dB. So that says the network could experience a 2 dB drop in performance and your picture should be unaffected.

[QUOTE=myapplebuddy]I just read through this entire thread for the 2nd time, and here's a few things I found that still seem unanswered. Maybe now that we know more about the new P3 box there may be some answers:

(1) Does the HDMI port pass 5.1 audio? The only way it seems that someone would know this is if the new P3 Moto has been successfully used with an AVR with HDMI inputs. Mjames mentioned that it didn't work with a JVC RX-D702B or the Denon AVR-3806. He also said he was going to try it with a Yamaha RX-V2600 but hasn't reported on the success/failure of that yet. Have you guys heard of anyone who has done this successfully?

(2) Does anyone know the HDMI version on the P3 Moto (1.0, 1.1, 1.2, etc.) ?/QUOTE]

Well, I was suppose to get my Yamaha RX-V2600 on Oct. 25, then they said Nov. 3, which got pushed to Nov. 7 and now it appears I get the shaft again with a new claimed date of Nov. 17!! I am completely frustrated as I am having a big housewarming party on Nov. 12 and my really expensive home theatre won't be functioning as intended. I'll update everyone again later....

Question #2 Version 1.0
Question #1 I suspect most receivers are using version 1.1

Whether or not this would cause a conflict is debatable but I strongly suspect this is the case.

Does one have to call and ask for a firmware update or is it just dowloaded to all DVR's by your local CC? How does this work?

It's an automatic download. Your cable company will download anything that they deem necessary.

I haven't checked mine yet but since I'm in the cable business I know that 256QAM requires about 31 dB for a clean signal and 64 QAM requires about 24 dB. So that says the network could experience a 2 dB drop in performance and your picture should be unaffected.
According to the STB itself, 33 db is the minimum to be considered 'Good'.

However, like you said the network could be having as much as a 2 db drop, so it usually works fine to 31 db. I forget, if it is 31 or 30 as the minimum for 'Fair'.

Btw, my second tuner is 2 db less than the first, this is typically the case.

According to the STB itself, 33 db is the minimum to be considered 'Good'.

However, like you said the network could be having as much as a 2 db drop, so it usually works fine to 31 db. I forget, if it is 31 or 30 as the minimum for 'Fair'.

Btw, my second tuner is 2 db less than the first, this is typically the case.


My picture looks fine on the HD channels. Would the signal strength affect updating the program guide? Mine seems to be reset often.

Hey all. Quick question: I have the Comcast 6412 III w/ dvr and for some reason I'm unable to record DD5.1 sound for shows that broadcast in DD5.1? Is there something I'm doing wrong? I called Comcast and all I got for a repsonse was "good question!?" When I'm watching the shows "live" I'll have the 5.1 signal as long as those shows broadcast that way (ie: csi/ncis/numbers, etc.) but when I go back to view them via dvr I get Pro Logic II sound. Any help? Very frustrated. Thanks.

mark


Also my FOX channel has been crappy lately, especially the OC. Prison Break looks very good but the OC is the worst HD program I've seen. Anybody else have issues?

Hey all. Quick question: I have the Comcast 6412 III w/ dvr and for some reason I'm unable to record DD5.1 sound for shows that broadcast in DD5.1? Is there something I'm doing wrong? I called Comcast and all I got for a repsonse was "good question!?" When I'm watching the shows "live" I'll have the 5.1 signal as long as those shows broadcast that way (ie: csi/ncis/numbers, etc.) but when I go back to view them via dvr I get Pro Logic II sound. Any help? Very frustrated. Thanks.

mark


Also my FOX channel has been crappy lately, especially the OC. Prison Break looks very good but the OC is the worst HD program I've seen. Anybody else have issues?

Hows your DVR conected?, HDMI has the DD sound issue's, Component connection does not.

I just went back and read some of the posts and found that a lot of people are having the problem. Should have checked that first. Anyways....

My dvr is connected to my tv via HDMI and then optical out to my pre/pro receiver. I haven't checked my firmware version so I will do that today. So the 12.22 should fix this problem?

According to the STB itself, 33 db is the minimum to be considered 'Good'.

However, like you said the network could be having as much as a 2 db drop, so it usually works fine to 31 db. I forget, if it is 31 or 30 as the minimum for 'Fair'.

Btw, my second tuner is 2 db less than the first, this is typically the case.
I didn't try to check the STB but it makes sense since below 31 or 30 you will start seeing dropouts. Since the second tuner reads 2 dB below the first we can guess that the second tuner gets its input after a 2dB coupler loss. Based on that we should use Tuner 1 for HD recording if possible.

I didn't try to check the STB but it makes sense since below 31 or 30 you will start seeing dropouts. Since the second tuner reads 2 dB below the first we can guess that the second tuner gets its input after a 2dB coupler loss. Based on that we should use Tuner 1 for HD recording if possible.
You shouldn't have to do that, get Comcast to supply a decent signal strength.

I didn't try to check the STB but it makes sense since below 31 or 30 you will start seeing dropouts. Since the second tuner reads 2 dB below the first we can guess that the second tuner gets its input after a 2dB coupler loss.
How does a coupler differ from a splitter?
Has anyone confirmed that it is indeed a coupler and not a splitter?

My picture looks fine on the HD channels. Would the signal strength affect updating the program guide? Mine seems to be reset often.
When I was having some signal issues, the Guide was fine. It may be that your STB is faulty, causing it to lose sync; just an educated guess, though.

How does a coupler differ from a splitter?
Has anyone confirmed that it is indeed a coupler and not a splitter?
A coupler has a through path that has minimal insertion loss and a coupled pth that has a specified loss whereas a splitter has the same loss on both paths.

I have a 6412 version 3 (Comcast - Atlanta) I'm trying to archive to a Pioneer DVD recorder with a DV input. I've connected a firewire cable between the DVR and DVD recorder, but I can't seem to get a picture on the DVD recorder. Will this setup work? Is it a signal format issue between the two devices? Is the firewire port not enabled?
Thanks.

Couple of questions for the gurus here:

1. Thanks to some of the above posts, I figured out how to get to the diagnostics menu. Sig strength on tuner one is "good" - close to 36db. It says "no errors".
Tuner two is "fair" - 31.5 to 32db.
The "5 second" error lisiting shows 0 for tuner one - no uncorrectable for channel two, but between 15 and 90 correctable errors.

Except for part of one recording, never have experienced serious viewing issues.

Question - Is it true to assume that since errors are all correctable on tuner 2, I shouldn't have any problems?

2. How do you know what tuner will be used to record? How do you know what tuner you are using when viewing a "live" program?

Thanks.

...mike

Couple of questions for the gurus here:

1. Thanks to some of the above posts, I figured out how to get to the diagnostics menu. Sig strength on tuner one is "good" - close to 36db. It says "no errors".
Tuner two is "fair" - 31.5 to 32db.
The "5 second" error lisiting shows 0 for tuner one - no uncorrectable for channel two, but between 15 and 90 correctable errors.

Except for part of one recording, never have experienced serious viewing issues.

Question - Is it true to assume that since errors are all correctable on tuner 2, I shouldn't have any problems?

2. How do you know what tuner will be used to record? How do you know what tuner you are using when viewing a "live" program?

Thanks.

...mike

power the STB off, when you power it back on, It will be on Tuner 1

hello I am wondering if anyone has encounterd a problem with the phase 111 dvrs when using the hdmi port. My box keeps rebooting itself and goes on and off by itself. COX new england says there is no fix for this yet, but to unplug the hdmi when not using. Anyone else notice this?

1. Thanks to some of the above posts, I figured out how to get to the diagnostics menu. Sig strength on tuner one is "good" - close to 36db. It says "no errors".
Tuner two is "fair" - 31.5 to 32db.
The "5 second" error lisiting shows 0 for tuner one - no uncorrectable for channel two, but between 15 and 90 correctable errors.

Except for part of one recording, never have experienced serious viewing issues.

Question - Is it true to assume that since errors are all correctable on tuner 2, I shouldn't have any problems?


True. The threshhold where you will start getting uncorrectable errors is around 28-29 dB. Since this is also the threshhold for major quantities of customer complaints your cable operator will do everything possible to maintain signal quality well above this level :)

So any news on the external SATA working yet? Im extremely interested in this.

So any news on the external SATA working yet? Im extremely interested in this.

No news about it from South Phila, or SC PA

I just upgraded my DVR from P2 to Phase III ( Comcast – San Francisco Bay Area) The pictures in SD look much better even via component (I still need to get HDMI cable).
I kept my old remote and now I have to enter leading zeros to switch to single or double digit channel (002 to switch to channel 2 or 055 for 55). In my old p2 DVR I did not have to enter all of these leading zeros.

Does anybody know if this is a setting that can be changed or do all Phase 3 DVRs work this way?

I just upgraded my DVR from P2 to Phase III ( Comcast – San Francisco Bay Area) The pictures in SD look much better even via component (I still need to get HDMI cable).
I kept my old remote and now I have to enter leading zeros to switch to single or double digit channel (002 to switch to channel 2 or 055 for 55). In my old p2 DVR I did not have to enter all of these leading zeros.

Does anybody know if this is a setting that can be changed or do all Phase 3 DVRs work this way?

Go to Guide main Menu

select setup

Guide setup

look for: Channel Entry behaviour.

set it to Auto-tune

exit out of the menu..

:D

I just got this box from RCN in pa. I am looking to replace my replaytv--however I have a synergy V remote that does not have a "setup" button. Is there anyway to program this to do a 30 second skip?

I have a 6412 version 3 (Comcast - Atlanta) I'm trying to archive to a Pioneer DVD recorder with a DV input. I've connected a firewire cable between the DVR and DVD recorder, but I can't seem to get a picture on the DVD recorder. Will this setup work? Is it a signal format issue between the two devices? Is the firewire port not enabled?
Thanks.
The Pioneer only accepts standard DV video (such as from a camcorder) via Firewire whereas the 6412 outputs MPEG TS streams via Firewire. Incompatible video formats.

I just got this box from RCN in pa. I am looking to replace my replaytv--however I have a synergy V remote that does not have a "setup" button. Is there anyway to program this to do a 30 second skip?
no one has this remote or no one has an answer?
I have searched this forum for many hours without a solution :(

no one has this remote or no one has an answer?
I have searched this forum for many hours without a solution :(

I have the synergy V URC file if you need it. Be warned it is a 8 meg PDF.

download here. Then save it to your HD.

http://www.scan-pa.com/AVS/SynergyV.pdf

Go to Guide main Menu

select setup

Guide setup

look for: Channel Entry behaviour.

set it to Auto-tune

exit out of the menu..

:D

Thanks, it worked. Now I know what autp-tune mean :)

True. The threshhold where you will start getting uncorrectable errors is around 28-29 dB. Since this is also the threshhold for major quantities of customer complaints your cable operator will do everything possible to maintain signal quality well above this level :)

Of course, if the tech your cable company sends out doesn't even know to check the Inband Status (d04) menu for your HD channels... the tech they first sent out to my house used his little signal reader device (whatever they call it) and kept saying how my signal coming into my house and upstairs where my tuner was at was "great". Um, not. He left at 3:30pm and my SNR was at 28.3dB for one of my local HD (QAM 256) channels and none of the HD channels were above 28.8. By 10:30pm, that same channel was unwatchable; the SNR was at 26.9dB (hundreds of uncorrectable errors, obviously.) My best friend's SNR was never below 34dB, even with a 5-way split downstairs and a 2-way upstairs, whereas I have a 2-way split down and the tech they sent out gave me a 6dB tap to replace the 2-way splitter; obviously something was wrong and he had no clue, so I took the box back and got rid of the service.

I sent an e-mail to the corporate tech support who then got it to the local tech supervisor who both left me a voice message and e-mail that he sent a tech out to find the problem outside my house that something had to be replaced. I got the DVR and service back now and sure enough the SNRs for my HD channels are now between 34.5dB and 36.5dB, depending on the channel, tuner 1 vs. tuner 2 and what time of day I happen to check.

However, although my SNR is "normal" now, watching Lost and Invasion from the DVR, every so many frames will have very noticeable compression artifacting, sort of in horizontal bands across the picture. Doing a pause on one of those frames it is very noticeable and it shouldn't look like that - I have both a Sammy HDTV OTA tuner and a Fusion5 HDTV PCI card and I have never seen such artifacting either watching live with the Sammy nor in recordings that my Fusion5 card makes. The kicker is that only the ABC programming had those artifacts, but the commercials, albeit in SD of course, looked they way they should.

I'm not saying it's not watchable and maybe I'm being too picky and that is the price I pay for being able to DVR HD, but I'm curious to know if the MPEG stream is being sent that way from the cable company or if the 6412 tuner is messing it up somehow. It's definitely not "pristine" looking 720p I get when I watch our local ABC channel OTA.

I am currently looking at two Electroline apmlifiers/splitters to replace the 4-way 7.5dB loss splitter currently at my coax's PoP. The EDA-UG280 and the EDA-FT08100.

Both are 8-ways which is good as I have another splitter somewere in my wall for the two TVs upstairs and they both get "acceptable" sometimes "poor" signals.

My main concern seeing as the signal is already 38dB after the 7.5 dB loss and after another 2 way splitter (3dB i think) on my main HDTV downstairs and my cable modem is would feeding it too much of a signal hurt? Thats why I might go with the EDA-UG2802 which has 0dB gain on the 8 ports. But it has 10dB loss on the return path. Does return loss matter that much? Or does the 4-way i have already degrade the signal somewhat?

Thats why I also am looking at the EDA-FT08100 which has a 3dB gain on all the 8 ports and no loss on the return path.

So, long story short, would i be feeding too high a signal to the cable boxes with the EDA-FT08100? And if I got the EDA-UG280 would I loose too much signal on the return path?

I'm still having HD (and digital) channel issues. I thought it was fixed (new splitter) but it is (sort of) intermittent. May have been this way from the get go even and the splitter was not bad. The very first time I looked at HD channels after hooking up the STB it was fine. Yesterday was the first chance i've had all week to sit down and watch hd programming (the nascar race) The signal loss would come and go, even losing my (5.1) audio too. Then the final straw was I recorded FOX shows last night. (the first time trying the DVR functions) I recorded one on the "analog standard" fox station (i'm on comcast) then while that was recording, I decided to record the rest of the shows from the digital station of the same network.

Well all three shows recorded from the digital station are completely horrible. MAJOR signal loss that gets so bad after about the first minute I lose audio sync too. The loss is completely consistent across all three shows (90 minutes worth and it NEVER stopped) and no audio (after the first minute or so of each program "start" It's almost as if when there is hard drive "activity" the DVR cant "keep up" When I was losing signal during the race (to the level of degredation I saw all thru the recordings) was at the start of watching and occasionally after that like the HDD was doing something when it got bad? I dont know. It's pure speculation on my part and the worst thing is I cannot for the life of me get that "signal menu" to show up on my moto 6412 PIII (or I am and I dont how how to get to that sub-screen?). As I said before I am on comcast, I have 12.18 firmware (My screens look just like the pics posted in that earlier thread here from the person on comcast with 12.18) The "user menu" (the one I get to by having the TV ON, powering OFF the DVR then pressing MENU) I have no "enter" key on my remote. I tried OK/Select but it does not do anything. I really want to see my signal strength screen so I can further troubleshoot my own cabling before I tell comcast to send someone out and/or I swap the DVR STB..

****EDIT****

Ok I finally found it. Once I get the user menu up I press menu again, THEN press ok/select and I get the diagnostic menu.

on D04 sub screen my input 1 says analog (I read above my input 1 "should be the 256QAM? how can I change it?) and input 2 says 256QAM and the signal is 27db and "poor" with lots of correctables and some uncorrectables too. So obviously I have some major signal issues and I can at least do more cable troubleshooting myself now that I can see the silly thing.

I just upgraded my DVR from P2 to Phase III ( Comcast – San Francisco Bay Area) The pictures in SD look much better even via component (I still need to get HDMI cable).
I kept my old remote and now I have to enter leading zeros to switch to single or double digit channel (002 to switch to channel 2 or 055 for 55). In my old p2 DVR I did not have to enter all of these leading zeros.

Does anybody know if this is a setting that can be changed or do all Phase 3 DVRs work this way?

Mine still works pushing the #2 to get to channel 2

SLI_Fallen

I went round and round with my cable company with problem with my signal. At first we thought it was the DVR, then when that didn't make a difference, we found that the DVR was getting too high a signal (corrected with a splittler) and then it turned out that replacing some bad connectors on the outside of the house (didn't find out if it was at my end of the cable or the one at the street)made a difference.

Now, it looks like the signal is rock solid.

Have any of you had problems with this?
My picture is very soft almost like it is out of focus. It is the same on both tuners, and is prominent on all SD content. Going straight thru (by passing the 6412) my picture is much sharper (typical SD grainy) I am getting strong signal strength 34-35. I am pretty sure it is not my new Tosh DLP or its settings, and my 6412 is outputting correctly 1080i/480i.

Anyone want to take a stab at this, I've tried everything that I can think of.
Could over boosting the signal cause this?
There is a 10 amp booster on the cable line.

Thanks for your thoughts,
Pete

pbnkb, I too have the same problem. My unperceptive friends even noted that the picture looked 'blurry'. I posted a new thread about it here:

link (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=603183)

I have good signal strength on both tuners as you do. Let me know if you manage to solve the problem. I'm going to see if Comcast has anything useful to say...

... on D04 sub screen my input 1 says analog (I read above my input 1 "should be the 256QAM? how can I change it?) and input 2 says 256QAM and the signal is 27db and "poor" with lots of correctables and some uncorrectables too. So obviously I have some major signal issues and I can at least do more cable troubleshooting myself now that I can see the silly thing.

Sounds exactly like the problems I was having, despite there not being any signal problems inside my house.

One question I have yet to figure out, hopefully someone in this forum knows the answer, as I see people talking about boosters, splitters, etc.
Before I was able to get the cable company to send someone outside my house and find the problem, I bought the Motorola signal booster (one would think would be compatible with their own set-top box.) It didn't help, but in fact actually killed my local HD channels which are using QAM256 (the SNR on the QAM64 channels didn't change either way). The same cable company, however, had installed an SVI signal booster in a friend's house, back before he got the HD service, and it doesn't kill any of his channels, QAM256 or otherwise, although as a test he took it out and the SNR on his channels only dropped about 1dB.

Signal boosters are no good for cable modem internet and it would seem that they are also of no help (if not hurting) to digital cable video either, which sort of makes sense to me (because they are both packet-based tranmissions?) It would seem that either your cable company gets you a good signal coming into your house, before you add your necessary splitters to go to wherever you the signal to go, or else you are going to be out of luck with digital cable. On the flip side, splitter losses don't really seem to affect things that much either (like 10dB loss in video splitters results in only about 1dB SNR loss in the moto tuner.)

What I do know from first hand experience is what has been said earlier: an Inband tuner SNR of or less than 29dB is bad and I refused to pay for their digital service until they found and corrected the problem on their end, which they did eventually.

pbnkb, I too have the same problem. My unperceptive friends even noted that the picture looked 'blurry'. I posted a new thread about it here:

link (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=603183)

I have good signal strength on both tuners as you do. Let me know if you manage to solve the problem. I'm going to see if Comcast has anything useful to say...


Let me guess, you both have a Phase III 6412.

I did mention twice on this thread that compared to the Phase II I still have, the P3 looks softer/blurrier/smeared out on analog channels.

But it seems a lot of people here think that actually looks better. Shrug.

Yes, I do in fact have the Series 3. Describing the SD picture as soft is an understatement. Blurry/out of focus is more like it. Even with sharpness or contrast changes it barely improves. HD content definitely looks much much better but I see a hint of softness on some of that as well.
Thanks for thinking about this, I'm just trying to figure out if it my box or if others have this issue as well.

I think the software has been changed between the P2s and P3s, such that the mpeg encoding is worse - perhaps it is using a lower bitrate for some reason.

Anyway, it reminds me painfully of the very worst days of Dish network satellite service I saw when they packed so many channels onto their satellites that the bitrates went to hell. When you see the cheeks of people's faces not moving properly with their whole heads, when you can barely see their lips move when they talk, when dark scenes are just mishmashes of stuttering dark mpeg blobs, you know the bitrate has been pushed down waaaay too far.

No idea why they changed this on the P3s, perhaps because people complained they couldn't record enough shows on the puny hard drive size. Cutting the encode bitrate would let you record more. But I haven't bothered testing how much space the P3 uses for an hour show vs. a P2.

Anyway, I'm glad I still have a P2 and will continue recording all analog shows on it until the system here switches to digital simulcast.

Given that many have claimed that the PQ is much improved for analog channels, I doubt that we are all interpreting the same thing differently. In other words, perhaps we are having different experiences with our 6413 III boxes compared to others, either due to the box itself, our respective cable system, or our tv's, or some combination of all three.

Can I ask, if you are experiencing a soft/blurry picture, what is a) your TV model and connection and b) who/where is your cable provider?

I myself have a Sony CRT HDTV(34HS510), connected with an DVI cable->HDMI adapter to the STB, and my cable provider is Comcast in DC.

TV is TOSH 56HM195 ( real nice 1080P DLP) , carrier is Patriot Media , NJ (great service so far) HDMI going from 6412directly into DLP set.
I also have tried a cable card and cable direct into the TV, both are much better. A bit grainy but no "blur".
I may try to take out the signal booster and see if this helps but I really doubt it will. Next step, if most of you are not getting this "softness", is to ask for a box swap.

Thanks again.

re: mr282's post,

I doubt that they purposefully decreased the quality given that many are reporting better image quality. Also, earlier in this thread, bobm was describing how this new 6412 III model is more than just a 6412 with an HDMI port, in that it features entirely new hardware inside (new chipset and features). And I thought I saw a post where someone claimed to have worked on the decoding in the III's and he/she mentioned how users should see improved decoding.

I have a 6412 version 3 (Comcast - Atlanta) I'm trying to archive to a Pioneer DVD recorder with a DV input. I've connected a firewire cable between the DVR and DVD recorder, but I can't seem to get a picture on the DVD recorder. Will this setup work? Is it a signal format issue between the two devices? Is the firewire port not enabled?
Thanks. The firewire port should be enabled, but the channels you're trying to record may have copy-protection set. Instead of dealing with all those issues, I'd recommend just using s-video to connect to the DVD Recorder instead.

Let me guess, you both have a Phase III 6412.

I did mention twice on this thread that compared to the Phase II I still have, the P3 looks softer/blurrier/smeared out on analog channels.

But it seems a lot of people here think that actually looks better. Shrug. I had an earlier model 6412 for awhile, then switched to a Phase III and I thought the PQ on SD channels was much improved. I'm not sure if I had a Phase I or Phase II before, but I remember the SD channels were just plain bad, and I usually watched them live using direct connection to my TV instead. The Phase III may be "softer" but I think it's a lot better. I guess that's a matter of personal preference.

One question I have yet to figure out, hopefully someone in this forum knows the answer, as I see people talking about boosters, splitters, etc.
Before I was able to get the cable company to send someone outside my house and find the problem, I bought the Motorola signal booster (one would think would be compatible with their own set-top box.) It didn't help, but in fact actually killed my local HD channels which are using QAM256 (the SNR on the QAM64 channels didn't change either way). The same cable company, however, had installed an SVI signal booster in a friend's house, back before he got the HD service, and it doesn't kill any of his channels, QAM256 or otherwise, although as a test he took it out and the SNR on his channels only dropped about 1dB.

These signal boosters were probably made for analog signals, not digital. Since digital signals (QAM64 and QAM256) carry information in both amplitude and phase, you can destroy a digital signal by amplifying it to the point of the signal booster's compression point. At that point the output of the booster becomes nonlinear with sidelobes and harmonics generated. generating nonlinearities depends on the signal booster's 1dB compression point, gain, and input signal level. In most cases you should avoid devices that amplify digital signals unless you have the skills and equipment to determine whether the signal is getting distorted. By the way inside your house there is nothing the average person can do to increase SNR using amplifiers or otherwise. All you can do is avoid degarding the SNR you are receiving from the cable company.

Just finished reading through the entire thread but I don't think this question was ever clearly answered. Is there a way for the 6412 to do PIP? I would think it being a dual tuner this would be a given but I don't see it clearly stated. I would like to do PIP with HDMI and firewire. If not I guess I could then split before the 6412 and take that to the RF direct to tv with cable card. I imagine I would be watching mostly analog channels on that and digital on the HDMI. That could at least give me PIP right?


Has anyone tried the SATA with the latest firmware(looks like 12.22)?

Just finished reading through the entire thread but I don't think this question was ever clearly answered. Is there a way for the 6412 to do PIP? I would think it being a dual tuner this would be a given but I don't see it clearly stated. I would like to do PIP with HDMI and firewire. If not I guess I could then split before the 6412 and take that to the RF direct to tv with cable card. I imagine I would be watching mostly analog channels on that and digital on the HDMI. That could at least give me PIP right?


Has anyone tried the SATA with the latest firmware(looks like 12.22)?

The 6412 has not implemented PIP. But, as you indicated using the tuners in your TV and the TV's PIP capability will give you some work arounds. Be sure and check your TV's user manual to see what PIP features your TV has. If you really want to do PIP, consider two 6412's!!!

Like alot of electronic devices, i'm really surprised nobody has hacked a dvr, i'm talking firmware, like enable the ports, fix bug's .....etc
Seems NOBODY has connections to either a moto tech or cable co
It has dual tuners why not enable pip?,why not enable sata?, i'm geting fed up with this cable co domination and seriously thinking of a dish, dish network has a 250 gig dvr out with alot more HD channels, all digital analog channels, they seem more interested in satisfying customers than cable.


Too good to pass up.

Your expectation that someone ELSE hack into equipment which is rented and not owned and in so doing subject themselves to fines and possible discontinuation of service simply to satisfy your selfish desires is bounded only by your misunderstanding of the current state of satellite television.

"Alot (sic) more HD channels" is actually left over Voom bandwidth, most of which is dubious at best. Dish only provides the CBS HD feed, while cable supplies all of the locals.

"All digital analog channels" Garbage in, garbage out. Claiming a digital channel which is analog at its source is like painting stripes on a mule; it still looks a lot like a jacka$$.

"They seem more interested in satisfying customers than cable." Each set of CSR's are likely to lead you astray, but it's clear you've NEVER spoken to a Dish Network CSR; customer service degrades immediately after your realize the person you're speaking too has some language other than english as their native tongue. Forget about technical support from Dish, you're better off reading the forums here.

BTW, "why not enable PIP, SATA?" Why not look at how far the DVR has come over the past year or so. Are you often in the habit of holding your breath until you turn blue? Has that ever worked for you? Hmm.

Have a nice day (and take a breath.)

i'm geting fed up with this cable co domination The cable companies really have nothing to do with the firmware and whether or not any of the ports are active. They really have no idea what the box can and can't do either. When they do firmware upgrades they're sent from Motorola for them to install, and sometimes Motorola techs actually come and install it themselves.

"Alot (sic) more HD channels" is actually left over Voom bandwidth, most of which is dubious at best. Dish only provides the CBS HD feed, while cable supplies all of the locals. Obviously it all depends on your cable company. Speaking for myself, the only non-premium HD channels I have on cable are ESPN-HD, TNT-HD, and Universal HD, so there would be "a lot" more if I switched to dish, not even counting the Voom stuff. Plus the only HD local I get on cable is PBS, even though two others are broadcasting, so it's no guarantee that you'll get HD locals on cable.

--"customer service degrades immediately after your realize the person you're speaking too has some language other than english as their native tongue."

And so many of those native English speakers do such a good job...

Too good to pass up.

Your expectation that someone ELSE hack into equipment which is rented and not owned and in so doing subject themselves to fines and possible discontinuation of service simply to satisfy your selfish desires is bounded only by your misunderstanding of the current state of satellite television.

"Alot (sic) more HD channels" is actually left over Voom bandwidth, most of which is dubious at best. Dish only provides the CBS HD feed, while cable supplies all of the locals.

"All digital analog channels" Garbage in, garbage out. Claiming a digital channel which is analog at its source is like painting stripes on a mule; it still looks a lot like a jacka$$.

"They seem more interested in satisfying customers than cable." Each set of CSR's are likely to lead you astray, but it's clear you've NEVER spoken to a Dish Network CSR; customer service degrades immediately after your realize the person you're speaking too has some language other than english as their native tongue. Forget about technical support from Dish, you're better off reading the forums here.

BTW, "why not enable PIP, SATA?" Why not look at how far the DVR has come over the past year or so. Are you often in the habit of holding your breath until you turn blue? Has that ever worked for you? Hmm.

Have a nice day (and take a breath.)

Well said.

Does anyone know the difference between the different Motorola DCT 6412's? I know that there is a
DCT6412/2300 that is used by Comcast
DCT6412/2005 that is used by Comcast
DCT6412/2000 that is used by Shaw Cable in Canada.

I know that you are able to activate the 6412/2005 with Shaw cable by first doing a factory reset. The reason that I am asking this is that I currently have a DCT6412/2300 Phase III with Comcast. I am moving to Vancouver, BC Canada and I am contemplating taking my comcast box up there with me. Comcast will let me purchase the box because I am moving, and the price that they are giving me is a lot less than the $800 Shaw Cable is asking for the DCT6412. Does anyone know of any differences between these boxes, especially between the 2005 and the 2300 series boxes, that would impede me doing the aforementioned plan.

Thanks Michael

Does anyone know the difference between the different Motorola DCT 6412's? I know that there is a
DCT6412/2300 that is used by Comcast
DCT6412/2005 that is used by Comcast
DCT6412/2000 that is used by Shaw Cable in Canada.

I know that you are able to activate the 6412/2005 with Shaw cable by first doing a factory reset. The reason that I am asking this is that I currently have a DCT6412/2300 Phase III with Comcast. I am moving to Vancouver, BC Canada and I am contemplating taking my comcast box up there with me. Comcast will let me purchase the box because I am moving, and the price that they are giving me is a lot less than the $800 Shaw Cable is asking for the DCT6412. Does anyone know of any differences between these boxes, especially between the 2005 and the 2300 series boxes, that would impede me doing the aforementioned plan.

Thanks Michael

When Comcast was performing beta testing on the 6412 last year (before the customer rollout) there were many problems with getting the 6412's working correctly with the Comcast network. I would be very careful about moving a box from one network to another. You could always call Motorola, short of that I wouldn't count on it working.

This may seem dumb, but I did it and maybe others have too.

Make SURE you get into the diagnostic menu and switch the (Default) 480i to 480p for the SD quality. It's not much but I did see an improvement. (on my HD Mitz DLP)

Do others occasionally see signal loss/pixel corruption every once in a while, particularly with HD content? It's much better now I have a decent signal to the STB but every once in a while I get this drop out, and only on HD/Digital channels.

There are plenty of hacked cable and sattelite boxes out there. why should i have to wait for my lazy cable co to update my dvr?
Just because there are plenty of hacked boxes out there, doesn't make it right. The box, cable, and head end do not belong to you!

Make SURE you get into the diagnostic menu and switch the (Default) 480i to 480p for the SD quality. It's not much but I did see an improvement. (on my HD Mitz DLP).

Do you mean to change the '4:3 Override' in the 'User Settings' (pg 12 of the 6412 user manual) to 480p? Is this what you mean by the "diagnostic menu"? That this helps the SD PQ? I will certainly try that tonight.

This may seem dumb, but I did it and maybe others have too.

Make SURE you get into the diagnostic menu and switch the (Default) 480i to 480p for the SD quality. It's not much but I did see an improvement. (on my HD Mitz DLP)

Do others occasionally see signal loss/pixel corruption every once in a while, particularly with HD content? It's much better now I have a decent signal to the STB but every once in a while I get this drop out, and only on HD/Digital channels.


I suppose you meant the "User Settings" menu--the only screen where you can change anything.

You are probably going to get a lot of diversity in response to your question on 480p, because different TVs behave differently on this.

My only HD TV is a 65" 1080i native resolution Mitsubisi, CRT rear projection. This TV automatically converts 480i inputs to 480p. When the 6412 is set to 480p output, then that is displayed by the TV directly as it is input from the STB, with no conversion. On the Mits, the image produced from a 6412 480p output is softer and a bit blurry; graphics run together and are often dificult to read. The images from the digital output and the component output are indistinugishable for quality, and both display the same blurriness and smearing when the 6412 is set up for 480p output.

By contrast, the image produced on the Mitsubisi by a 6412 480i output (upconverted to 480p by the TV) is noticeably sharper. You can read those awful fine print disclaimer messages in commercials with the 480i output, but not with the 480p output.

Unlike most here in the forum, I am amazed at the image quality of 480i analog signals from the 6412. The image is way better than what I can get on three CRT direct view standard TVs connected to 6412s. These TVs are set up to use the component output and 4:3 aspect, and, of course 480i. These three TVs show jaggies on cartoons and other graphics (which are not there with the Mits, even though the picture on the Mits is three times larger).

That said, the image produced from an antenna input on the Mitsubisi is even better than the 480i output from a 6412. But not enough better for me to bother with all the hassles of switching inputs for analog channels.

On the other hand, with a DVD input into the Mitsubisi (for the two DVD players I have tried), there is no discernable image difference between using the interlaced output or the progressive output from the DVD players. Both images are super sharp.

Others will probably report different results.

As for the digital picture corruption, those are cuused by the famed "uncorrectable errors" in one or more blocks of pixels. The blocks freeze on the screen until a good block is recieved, which is the design of the cable box. This is caused by some problem between the antenna connection on the cable box and the device generating the original signal. The cause could even be a bad connection to a video camera at a football game, or a lightning strike in Philadelphia. All the user can do is to make sure all connections, wiring, splitters, etc. within his control are good, there is no unnecessary decrease in signal due to unneeded splitters, and the cables used are quad shielded to prevent interference. If none of this works, you can get a tech to come out and check the signal strength.

A few months ago, I lost my internet connection, the digital channels went to hell, and the analog channels turned grainy. I discovered that I could get the internet to work only by bypassing all splitters and connecting the cable modem direct to the cable drop. Naturally, that left all the TVs dark. I told the tech my signal strength had gone south. He said "no way". But when he stuck his signal strength tester on the cable drop, he said he would report the problem to the "lines" techs, and, upon being pressed, admitted that the signal strength was low. A couple of days later, a cable truck showed up on my street, the tech replaced a bad repeater, and now I have almost no dropouts. Just lightning strikes, I suppose.

You will not see frozen blocks on analog signals, just noise, graininess, and interference. Analog signals cannot be error corrected.

Einride: Thanks very much for this report--it's what I've been wanting to see. With my previous Sammy hlp, everybody recommended setting the 4:3 Override to 'OFF', but you say that with a Mits dlp (which I now have) that setting it to '480i' is best; I will certainly be trying this out tonight. I did observe last night that SD analog was better OTA than via my 6412 (with Override set to 'OFF'), but am looking forward to seeing how this changes when setting it to '480i'.

I don't understand the difference in what 480 override off vs 480i would be. I understand that 480p is a STB conversion.

anyone?

jim

I don't understand the difference in what 480 override off vs 480i would be. I understand that 480p is a STB conversion.

anyone?

jim

I don't understand it either, but am going to take the experimental approach (though I make my living as a theorist!).

Posted also in the Mits 1080p thread:

I have the 6412 as well. According to the manual the 4:3 override should be off when using a 16:9 display. If you hit the Info key on the Mits remote you will see 1080i for all channels (when the 6412 is the input device) as long as you have set the resolution to 1080 and the 4:3 override off. Setting the override to 480i or 480p results in those lower resolutions input to the TV. It seems if the scaling is done in the STB for SD channels you get the extra 1-2 inches on each side of the frame.

Comparing OTA channels 2 and 2-1 in the bay area I see the same effect. Channel 2 is input at 480, upconverted by the Mits and the 1-2 inches are lost. Channel 2-1 is input at 1080i, upconverted and the 1-2 inches are back.

Therefore the Mits upconversion from 480 to 1080 causes the loss of the 1-2 inches of SD programming. This is not a problem for me since all the SD I watch and record is through the 6412 and I disabled all SD channels on the OTA.

Bottom line here is that if your TV set has a better upconverter than the 6412 than you might want to output 480i or 480p from the 6412. In my case I'm leaving the 4:3 override OFF.

As I said, I also am still very much in discovery mode with trying different things. I will likely revert back to default (480i) in the STB and see. It SEEMED better with 480p but i've been fighting these coax problems (seem to be resolved now) it gets blurry keeping track of what i've done, when, and what the settings were..

****EDIT****

Setting the 4:3 override to OFF on my (comcast) Moto 6412 PIII indeed has helped, particularly the analog channels. Even my wife notices. Thats my take, your mileage may vary.

I have found that setting 4:3 override to 480i by far and away works best when connected over HDMI to my Samsung HLR6168. When set to either of the other two settings I get obvious stairstepping. When using 480i the set seems to do a much better job of deinterlacing the picture. Some might find the picture to be a bit "soft" but in my opinion it is much better.

overide off?, i dont see that setting in my 6412 i have this for 4:3
4:3 side bar
4:3 stretch
4:3 preserve 480p
4:3 preserve 480i

i have it now on strecth, used to always have it to 1080i wide /preserve 480i
now i'm waking up, if i go into the basic menu with grey background it's in there.
I usually go into the bigger menu after pushing menu then A for extra settings

overide off?, i dont see that setting in my 6412 i have this for 4:3
4:3 side bar
4:3 stretch
4:3 preserve 480p
4:3 preserve 480i

i have it now on strecth, used to always have it to 1080i wide /preserve 480i
now i'm waking up, if i go into the basic menu with grey background it's in there.
I usually go into the bigger menu after pushing menu then A for extra settings


Are you talking about a menu generated by the 6412--or your TV?

Are you talking about a menu generated by the 6412--or your TV?



Shut off the 6412 then press the menu on 6412s remote and a setup screen will appear!



JohnnyJT :)
South Philly

Shut off the 6412 then press the menu on 6412s remote and a setup screen will appear!


OK. Cool.

Now, does your remote have an "A" button that you can push to "go into the bigger menu after pushing menu then A for extra settings"?

If so, who is your cable carrier? Where are you located? How is the remote identified?

I have remotes from Motorola, RCN (Synergy V), and Comcast. Each has A, B, and C keys. None of them will bring up another setings screen.

[Edit] I also tried the key code for "A" (Cable--Setup--00241). There was no response--the remote lite on the cable box did not blink.

Oh yes. This may be important. MY 6412s are NOT Phase III.

A B & C does not work. PIP does not work either! Maybe someday! I live in South Phila Pa and have Comcast Cable.
I have Phase III
I heard a new Motorola HD DVR is going to come out and I can't wait!

http://home.comcast.net/~johnnyjt/CIMG0735.JPG


JohnnyJT :)
South Philly

For those with the 6412 III, does anybody notice faint horizontal lines in the upper half of the screen on SD channels?

I was unhappy with the first 6412 III that they give me, so I went back to Comcast to get an earlier model, but unfortunately they didn't have any. So it was either go back to the single tuner 6208 or test my luck with another 6412 III. And it appears that this box has some problems to be worked out because the same issues exist.

I'm still seeing horizontal lines on SD channels. They don't appear on HD channels, they're there using component or HDMI, and I didn't have this problem with my 6208, so it can't be my TV.

They're faint but noticeable some of the time depending on what's on the screen. Anyone experiencing the same thing?

A B & C does not work. PIP does not work either! Maybe someday! I live in South Phila Pa and have Comcast Cable.
I have Phase III
I heard a new Motorola HD DVR is going to come out and I can't wait!

http://home.comcast.net/~johnnyjt/CIMG0735.JPG


JohnnyJT :)
South Philly

Comcast of South Phila already has the NEW DCT-3412's in stock.

:)

Comcast of South Phila already has the NEW DCT-3412's in stock.




I called Comcast a few minutes ago and they

are all gone for now! Was told to check back

next week.


JohnnyJT :(
South Philly

Just had one installed on my WEGA V 50A10 Saturday. DVR functions work fine but the SD Picture Quality is worse then what I got from my old Comcast Digital box. Any ideas what to do? Anything transmitted in HD is great thought.

In the setup menu, what is your 4:3 override set to? I found for my set, setting it to 480i significantly improved the picture. Others have found one of the other settings to work best. Trial and error. :)

In the setup menu, what is your 4:3 override set to? I found for my set, setting it to 480i significantly improved the picture. Others have found one of the other settings to work best. Trial and error. :)

With my 6412 III and Mits 1080p dlp, I find the 4:3 override setting 'OFF' works best. With the hd setting at '1080i', this means (as I understand it) that 1080i is sent out of the stb to the TV; with the override set to 480i or 480p, these outputs are sent to the TV. My display thus seems to work best if everything is sent to it as 1080i (which I also do for the dvd player).

For those with the 6412 III, does anybody notice faint horizontal lines in the upper half of the screen on SD channels?
It's possible your cable isn't grounded properly. Do you use a sound system other than the TV's speakers? If so, turn up the volume with no audio playing and see if you hear extra "noise" or "hum" that goes away when you unplug the cable feed from your 6412. I had a really bad 60 cycle hum on my audio system and horizontal lines in my TV picture like you are describing. I eventually tracked the problem down to my cable TV line. Once I unplugged it, the audio hum went away. Of course, you won't be able to see if the horizontal lines go away if you unplug the cable line because you'll have no picture. That's why the audio test can shed some light on whether it's a cable line grounding issue. Anyways, I ended up getting a Jensen VRD-1FF ground isolator and it solved my audio hum and picture problems. Read this (http://www.audioholics.com/techtips/setup/avhardware/groundloopcableTV.php) article. It should shed some light on the topic and possibly lead you to a solution.

In the setup menu, what is your 4:3 override set to? I found for my set, setting it to 480i significantly improved the picture. Others have found one of the other settings to work best. Trial and error. :)

1080i (override off) works best with my 1080p LCD (Westinghouse 37"). 480i over HDMI/DVI doesn't work for me, so I haven't compared it to that. My conclusion is that the 6412 handling the scaling, followed by my LCD de-interlacing works better than the other way around.

For those with the 6412 III, does anybody notice faint horizontal lines in the upper half of the screen on SD channels?
No, I have a new 6412 P3 and don't see any lines over SD. (BTW, my P3 doesn't have an RF OUT).

In the setup menu, what is your 4:3 override set to? I found for my set, setting it to 480i significantly improved the picture. Others have found one of the other settings to work best. Trial and error.

I have my 4:3 override set to off. If it's set to anything else, I have to constantly change the aspect ratio on my TV when I switch from SD to HD or vice versa.

No, I have a new 6412 P3 and don't see any lines over SD. (BTW, my P3 doesn't have an RF OUT).

Interesting, my P3 has an RF out. I actually have it hooked up to my PC that has an NTSC tuner and it works fine on channel 3.

Only the final production run of the 6412p3's have the RF Output.
The new 3412p1 also have the RF output.

Cox Communications in Omaha Nebraska told me they ordered the 6412 phase 3's without rf out, so it possible the cable company could have ordered the 6412 phase 3 without rf out.

Andrew Wees




Only the final production run of the 6412p3's have the RF Output.
The new 3412p1 also have the RF output.

Just had Comcast installed two weeks ago. I have the Moto 6412, but it's a Phase II stb. I had asked in another forum whether I should request/order a Phase III box, but to no avail.

Reading all twenty pages here and with the exception of exactly one post, it seems that the consensus is that the Phase III stb does a better job with SD. However, it seems beyond that and an HDMI output that I'll won't use, but nearly everyone here has had a problem with, there's no reason to get the Phase III stb.

BTW - my Phase II box hard drive is awfully noisy. I saw another post here refer to such a thing but was not sure whether it was a II or III box. Like that poster said, I can hear it over the tv audio...very irritating especially during quiet scenes.

Is this unique to Phase II boxes or do some of these boxes just have that problem and I should requesta new box from Comcast until I get one that it quiet? Two Comcast CSR's have told me that this noise from the hard drive is to be expected.

Thanks in advance.

Reading all twenty pages here and with the exception of exactly one post, it seems that the consensus is that the Phase III stb does a better job with SD. However, it seems beyond that and an HDMI output that I'll won't use, but nearly everyone here has had a problem with, there's no reason to get the Phase III stb.
I can't speak for everyone else, but for me personally the upgrade in the SD quality is reason enough to get the P3. I'm sure every case is different, but with me it was a HUGE improvement, not just a slight one.


BTW - my Phase II box hard drive is awfully noisy. I saw another post here refer to such a thing but was not sure whether it was a II or III box. Like that poster said, I can hear it over the tv audio...very irritating especially during quiet scenes.
Have Comcast come switch out the box, or take it to your local Comcast office and switch it out there. From all that I have read so far about the P2 and P3 6412's it seems that some boxes are noisy and some are not. Just switch yours out until you get a quiet one. I have been lucky to get quiet boxes so far. They aren't absolutely silent, but I certainly haven't been able to hear them over the tv audio, even during quiet scenes.

Just had Comcast installed two weeks ago. I have the Moto 6412, but it's a Phase II stb. I had asked in another forum whether I should request/order a Phase III box, but to no avail.

Reading all twenty pages here and with the exception of exactly one post, it seems that the consensus is that the Phase III stb does a better job with SD. However, it seems beyond that and an HDMI output that I'll won't use, but nearly everyone here has had a problem with, there's no reason to get the Phase III stb.

BTW - my Phase II box hard drive is awfully noisy. I saw another post here refer to such a thing but was not sure whether it was a II or III box. Like that poster said, I can hear it over the tv audio...very irritating especially during quiet scenes.

Is this unique to Phase II boxes or do some of these boxes just have that problem and I should requesta new box from Comcast until I get one that it quiet? Two Comcast CSR's have told me that this noise from the hard drive is to be expected.

Thanks in advance.


If SD channels are barely watcheable for you now, then it sounds like the new Phase III box will improve your SD picture quality. On my old 6208, some SD channels were ok, and other channels were surprisingly pretty good, so moving to the III was a step back for me. I've had two units now, and the picture in both was softened and too dark, and the colors were too intense. The second box was slightly better than the first, so maybe there's some variation in the production.

If the problem with HDMI & digital audio is going to be a problem for you, you could wait until they fix it before swapping your current box. I will say that the III is pretty quiet.

Comcast is coming out today to give me an old 6412. You might have some difficulty going to the customer center to get any old 6412 models (if you want to try for a quieter one), as when I went, they said that they rarely get any dual tuners other than the III's now. I'll report back if I decide to keep the III after all!

Well, I've read all the messages on this forum and others and I don't believe anyone has stated for sure that two-way FireWire compatibility with the 6412 and JVC D-VHS VCRs is possible or dependable. The use of a peripheral HDD with SATA doesn't seem to have been confirmed yet either, unless I've missed something. Can anyone clarify these issues? I'm about to pick up a phase 3 6412 from Comcast and am considering a D-VHS deck as well. I'm in the Portland, Oregon region of Comcast. Thanks for any help.

There are threads in other groups that have had success in doing some firewire stuff with the 6412. As for an external HD using SATA, not yet. Impatiently waiting....

Comcast Central NJ is coming out to replace my 6412 III box as the Digital out has disappeared. Box was also hanging up and only a pull plug would get it restarted. When I placed the call for the replacement I asked if the SATA was active on the box. CR decided to check with tech and then said yes. Being a doubter, I repeated the question and CR again said it was active. So I then asked if the external HD's were available. CR confirmed yes, and said the tech would bring one along. I asked how much. CR said $6.95 per month. I'mmm. Do you believe? Will post findings on Wednesday.

Comcast Central NJ is coming out to replace my 6412 III box as the Digital out has disappeared. Box was also hanging up and only a pull plug would get it restarted. When I placed the call for the replacement I asked if the SATA was active on the box. CR decided to check with tech and then said yes. Being a doubter, I repeated the question and CR again said it was active. So I then asked if the external HD's were available. CR confirmed yes, and said the tech would bring one along. I asked how much. CR said $6.95 per month. I'mmm. Do you believe? Will post findings on Wednesday.


Keep your fingers crossed and knock on wood!

-update-

I just got off the phone with a Senior Comcast Tier 2 Support member who had his supervisor check.

Comcast has apparently decided to not support the external HD option on there cable system, due to several reasons, most have to do with copyright violations.

:eek:

remember this is the response I got from a Tech Support CSR who then txfer my call to tier 2 support and then my question was sent to that persons on duty supervisor to his boss..

So they say anyway.....

If SD channels are barely watcheable for you now, then it sounds like the new Phase III box will improve your SD picture quality.
Just an FYI for some people, if your area is Digitally Simulcasting the Analogs, then getting a newer phase DVR is irrelevant; the DS improves them already.

Comcast here in Detroit with a Phase 2 box, yep, SD on channels 1-99 are horrible. Wife wanted to kick my butt after I bought this huge new TV and had a picture like that.

Looks like I'll be going to my local Comcast office this weekend to request a Phase III box. Can I order a Phase III on-line and pick it up or have it delivered?

Also, on my Phase II box I have noticed that my DVR'd HD movies have a some macroblocking (is that what it is called when you see what amounts to blocks of pixels moving across the screen?). Is this a known issue with the Phase II boxes?

Lastly, how do I know if my area is digitally simulcasting? Does digital simulcasting mean that I also get my locals digitally through my cable provider? Sounds like it, but, yeah, the locals as providedon my cable system are much, much better to watch.

Comcast here in Detroit with a Phase 2 box, yep, SD on channels 1-99 are horrible. Wife wanted to kick my butt after I bought this huge new TV and had a picture like that.

Looks like I'll be going to my local Comcast office this weekend to request a Phase III box. Can I order a Phase III on-line and pick it up or have it delivered?


Your better off going to your local Comcast office, Saves a $25.00 comcast tech visit charge!


Also, on my Phase II box I have noticed that my DVR'd HD movies have a some macroblocking (is that what it is called when you see what amounts to blocks of pixels moving across the screen?). Is this a known issue with the Phase II boxes?



No This is called pixelation!


Lastly, how do I know if my area is digitally simulcasting? Does digital simulcasting mean that I also get my locals digitally through my cable provider? Sounds like it, but, yeah, the locals as providedon my cable system are much, much better to watch.

while at comcast ask if they have the DCT-3412 STB (this will answer your question about digital simulcast! The DCT-3412 is a Digital ONLY Cable Box and is only available in areas that have full digital, or digital simulcast.

The richness of the color on the analog channels with my 6412 Phase III is better than what I got with my 6200. The pictures are cleaner and the channels that were riddled with interference are completely clear with the new Phase III chipset. The HD channels also look great, as they did with the 6200. The channel changer is much slower. I've had no problems yet with the dual tuner and recorder, but we'll see about that after I've had more experience with it.

The Ethernet and USB ports are not active on my unit. No one at the Comcast office in Eugene, Oregon knew if the FireWire or SATA ports were enabled, so I'll have to wait to learn about that. My firmware is #12.18. Comcast couldn't tell me if there were any plans to upgrade to #12.22.

The rep at the counter tried to pass off a Phase II box on me, but fortunately I recognized the DVI port. When I called this to her attention, she jumped up and like a magician, a Phase III box materialized in her hands.
They probably have some older boxes they want to give to people who don't know the difference.

For those who have had trouble getting a Dolby Digital 5.1 output to a receiver from a Phase III box, when the HDMI port is used, try this: Hook up a coaxial digital audio output instead of an optical one. I couldn't get any audio to go over an optical cord when the HDMI was connected to a TV.
However, with a coaxial digital cord, DD 5.1 and any other type of audio, passes to my receiver at all times.

I'm very pleased with this gadget so far and with a total monthly bill of only $24.31, it's a good deal. My Limited Basic Cable subscription gives me all 5 of our local HD stations and the free On Demand channels.

Steve McDonald

Steve, I currently use an AVR digital optical lne to run from my stb to me receiver. If I do get the Phase III box and at some point go from component to HDMI will I have to replace that with a coax cable?

Comcast has dropped plans to use/support/work with External Hard Drives, due to Copyright issues.

Comcast has dropped plans to use/support/work with External Hard Drives, due to Copyright issues.

That doesn't make sense. The new Phase III boxes have copy protection features in the chipset. Couple that with a Maxtor external drive which supports the same protection scheme and you have a solution that will keep even the MPAA loonies happy.

Interesting. You were able to pick yours up. In LA we have to have a Comcast "Technician" come install it for us since it has "special" settings for hdtv's. I insisted I could handle it to no avail, they wouldn't budge. The only thing I could get out of them was "Which works better for you 9 to 1 or 1 to 5?"



The rep at the counter tried to pass off a Phase II box on me, but fortunately I recognized the DVI port. When I called this to her attention, she jumped up and like a magician, a Phase III box materialized in her hands.
They probably have some older boxes they want to give to people who don't know the difference.

Steve McDonald

Interesting. You were able to pick yours up. In LA we have to have a Comcast "Technician" come install it for us since it has "special" settings for hdtv's. I insisted I could handle it to no avail, they wouldn't budge. The only thing I could get out of them was "Which works better for you 9 to 1 or 1 to 5?"

That's Bull! they just want to charge you the $25.00 Visit Fee.

I have always gone to my Local Comcast Office to swap out, pick up Equipment.

The only time I allowed them to come out, was to replace there Outside Cable line from the drop point to the house.

That doesn't make sense. The new Phase III boxes have copy protection features in the chipset. Couple that with a Maxtor external drive which supports the same protection scheme and you have a solution that will keep even the MPAA loonies happy.

I agree, that it does not make sence from the users point of view, however from the cable companies view, it just is too much hassle.

:eek:

I agree, that it does not make sence from the users point of view, however from the cable companies view, it just is too much hassle.

:eek:

What hassle?

Maxtor makes a plug and play unit. They already have availability for the SA8300 STB. Little to no R&D effort on Comcast's part.

Besides, when they eventually roll out a whole house media solution, they will be forced to add storage. You can't support that platform with a 120 Gig drive. And what better way than to choose an existing product. No re-inventing the wheel.

I asked this in the main 6412 thread but didn't get any response. Since most, if not all, of you have the newer box perhaps you can comment. I have the problem where I am watching another input on my TV (other than the DVI>HDMI for the cable box) and switch back to the 6412 input and the screen is split in two. Accessing the program guide or the up or down channels correct the problem. I also occasionally when switching back to the 6412's DVI input get a blue hue to the picture. The other problem is no picture at all but I get the audio. When either of these situations happen I have to toggle back and forth between the other input and the one for the 6412 or sometimes I have to turn off the cable box and then back on again. These problems occur when switched to either the ANT1 input or the other HDMI input (DVD) for a period of time and then back to the one for the 6412 and I would bet it only occurs on sets that use DVI>HDMI. Has anyone had this problem and upgraded to the 6412 III's? I would be curious if the problem goes away using HDMI>HDMI as opposed to DVI>HDMI.

This thread is legnthy and jumps around, so I apologize if this has been already asked.

If I have a program recorded in the DVR of the Motorola 6412, is there a way to get it from the box to a laptop or some other means to view on the laptop or even burn it to a DVD?

This thread is legnthy and jumps around, so I apologize if this has been already asked.

If I have a program recorded in the DVR of the Motorola 6412, is there a way to get it from the box to a laptop or some other means to view on the laptop or even burn it to a DVD?
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=403695

Ok I am very new to this forum and maybe this has been covered. I have the phase III box for some time now and would like to use more of it's features. I am a Comcast person in SE Pennsylvania. I would really like to hook up the IEEE 1394 firewire to my laptop and download my DRV recordings. What can I expect? What type of cable should I use? I no nothing about firewire. It looks like the STB has a bigger 4 pin IEEE then my laptop which looks like it is 4 pin also. If anyone can help please PM me or on this thread.

Ok I am very new to this forum and maybe this has been covered. I have the phase III box for some time now and would like to use more of it's features. I am a Comcast person in SE Pennsylvania. I would really like to hook up the IEEE 1394 firewire to my laptop and download my DRV recordings. What can I expect? What type of cable should I use? I no nothing about firewire. It looks like the STB has a bigger 4 pin IEEE then my laptop which looks like it is 4 pin also. If anyone can help please PM me or on this thread.
You would need a 6-pin 1394 cable to make the connection. Check the thread posted above for details.

DrDetroit, I can't tell you if you'll have the same problem with an optical audio connection, that I and others have had. I don't know if this is a fault in the 12.18 firmware I have or not. It seems to vary with each region as there are differences in these units that may transcend the model and firmware versions. There may be fundamental incompatibilities related to the audio receivers, that can only be resolved on a case-by-case basis. Unfortunately, not every audio receiver has both optical and coaxial inputs. I know of no reason why a coaxial connector isn't just as good as an optical one-----does anyone have a comment on that?

There is really no good reason that Comcast insists on a home service call, simply to unplug/replug these tuners. Once your original cable installation has been done and a technician has completed the two-way registration over the cable, there's nothing to swapping boxes. Just a simple setting of signal and screen modes, the same as you would do with a new VCR, is all that's required. Our local region required a home call for a box swap until recently, but I guess they have realized that their techs have better things to do.

I have an interesting situation regarding my channel access with this new Phase III box. I have just Limited Basic service, but I'm now receiving almost every digital channel, both SD and HD, they have to offer. There's hundreds
of them. I assume that a routine account analysis sweep they do every few days, with put an end to this for me soon-----but I'm not going to complain to them in the meantime. Boy, there's a crapload of explicit and downright nasty stuff on some premium channels late at night. If we'd had anything like this back when I was a teenager, our surpressed little brains would have had short circuits.

My unit doesn't display the Settings Menu when I power off the box, leave the TV on (with an HDMI connection) and push the Menu button. The screen flickers and nothing more happens. Neither the remote nor front panel Menu buttons will initiate this set-up display. I believe my screen aspect and scan versions are correct by default for my TV, so no real problem from this. The other set-up options for audio, language, etc. are available in the regular Menu pages.

Steve McDonald
P.S. What's going on with the posting format on these forums? Is this cut-down version of the message display going to be what we get from now on?
Or have I somehow switched my computer to a different display type?

kDog044: I had the split-screen problem with my 6200 box, but with my new 6412 Phase III, it no longer occurs. Every time I turned my HDTV on, with a DVI/HDMI connection, if the 6200 was also on, the screen would split. Good thing this isn't happening with the Phase III, as it would screw-up recordings in progress.

Steve McDonald

My unit doesn't display the Settings Menu when I power off the box, leave the TV on (with an HDMI connection) and push the Menu button. The screen flickers and nothing more happens. Neither the remote nor front panel Menu buttons will initiate this set-up display.

You have to hit and release the Menu button very quickly to get into the Settings Menu. This is because you exit from the Settings Menu also by hitting the Menu button; so if you hold it down to long initially, you are esentially entering and exiting the Settings Menu without realizing it. (At least this was the situation for me.)

That's Bull! they just want to charge you the $25.00 Visit Fee.

I have always gone to my Local Comcast Office to swap out, pick up Equipment.

The only time I allowed them to come out, was to replace there Outside Cable line from the drop point to the house.


Here in Central New Jersey, Comcast does not charge a service fee when they replace the box. Each service visit is a little bit of a lottery. If they don't show up in the two hour window they pay you $20.00. I will let you know what happens.

P.S. What's going on with the posting format on these forums? Is this cut-down version of the message display going to be what we get from now on?
Or have I somehow switched my computer to a different display type?
If you go to the very bottom of your browser page you will see that there are three display options for the AVS forum. You may have accidently selected AVS Mobile (which is abbreviated) ... just select AVS White or Dark and all will be well.

Here in Central New Jersey, Comcast does not charge a service fee when they replace the box. Each service visit is a little bit of a lottery. If they don't show up in the two hour window they pay you $20.00. I will let you know what happens.

I just Checked, and Comcast charges a fee of $25.00 for delivery or pickup of any Comcast Equipment. This is a corporate policy.

kDog044: I had the split-screen problem with my 6200 box, but with my new 6412 Phase III, it no longer occurs. Every time I turned my HDTV on, with a DVI/HDMI connection, if the 6200 was also on, the screen would split. Good thing this isn't happening with the Phase III, as it would screw-up recordings in progress.

Steve McDonaldSteve, thanks for the response. I figured the problem was a synching issue between DVI and HDMI and I was hoping that a straight HDMI to HDMI connection would alleviate the issue. Now if Comcast would only get some of the Phase III boxes in my area I could get mine switched out.

I just Checked, and Comcast charges a fee of $25.00 for delivery or pickup of any Comcast Equipment. This is a corporate policy.

Nonsense. Bad information. In south Florida anyway, they don't charge you to pick up bad equipment. They are also pretty reasonable about walk-in STB swap outs. I've done it a few times.

If you go to the very bottom of your browser page you will see that there are three display options for the AVS forum. You may have accidently selected AVS Mobile (which is abbreviated) ... just select AVS White or Dark and all will be well.

Thanks, UCSB. As usual, a simple solution was all that was needed. My fingers had brushed the wrong button and now all is restored.

Steve, thanks for the response. I figured the problem was a synching issue between DVI and HDMI and I was hoping that a straight HDMI to HDMI connection would alleviate the issue. Now if Comcast would only get some of the Phase III boxes in my area I could get mine switched out.

I should have also mentioned that the split-screen glitch with my old 6200, was occurring within the tuner and was not being done just in the TV. All the outputs to other TVs, including component and S-Video, would also show the split

I have had the 6200 for about 16 months and have been recording to DVHS. Tommorrow the Cable Co is bringing me a 6412. Any hints about to record from it to my 30K that will be useful?

Who knows a way to have a Favorites button that will go down in channel number on a 6412? The existing button only goes up and makes navigating the channels much less convenient.

Nonsense. Bad information. In south Florida anyway, they don't charge you to pick up bad equipment. They are also pretty reasonable about walk-in STB swap outs. I've done it a few times.

Sorry, but quite accurate info.

see PM.

First, Comcast level 1 CSR's and service center reps are horrible. Following the advice I got here and after calling Comcast, I went to a local Comcast store to order a phase III 6412 stb. The reps at the store had no idea what I was talking about. So I called Comcast while I was there and after twenty minutes got only as far as a level I and level II CSR telling me they had no idea what a phase III 6412 stb was no did they know that they had a stb with a HDMI input. So, I simply asked that they swap my phase II box for a new phase II box because my box had a loud hd and fan. They were able to do so.

I get home,open the box, and tadaaaaa...I got a phase III box with the HDMI input. ~rolleyes~

Second, I get home, connect the box to my tv and receiver, plug it in and turn it on....no signal whatsoever. I call Comcast and the rep tells me that I needed to contact them by phone to have a signal sent to my box to activate it. She does and tadaaaa...I got a signal, everything is working fine.

Third, except for the screen...following the instructions here I got into the service menu (turn stb off, the press the OK/Select button). Got into the menu, got into the "user setting status" menu. However, I can't figure out to change the TV Type, YPbPr output, or the change the 4:3 override settings. I think I have seen posts here indicating that posters have gone in and modified these settings, but I don;t recall how they were able to select each function and then change it.

So, how do I change those settings and what should I change them to?

I have a Sony KDF-42WE655 widescreen hdtv...

Thanks in advance for the assistance.

First, Comcast level 1 CSR's and service center reps are horrible. Following the advice I got here and after calling Comcast, I went to a local Comcast store to order a phase III 6412 stb. The reps at the store had no idea what I was talking about. So I called Comcast while I was there and after twenty minutes got only as far as a level I and level II CSR telling me they had no idea what a phase III 6412 stb was no did they know that they had a stb with a HDMI input. So, I simply asked that they swap my phase II box for a new phase II box because my box had a loud hd and fan. They were able to do so.

I get home,open the box, and tadaaaaa...I got a phase III box with the HDMI input. ~rolleyes~

Second, I get home, connect the box to my tv and receiver, plug it in and turn it on....no signal whatsoever. I call Comcast and the rep tells me that I needed to contact them by phone to have a signal sent to my box to activate it. She does and tadaaaa...I got a signal, everything is working fine.

Third, except for the screen...following the instructions here I got into the service menu (turn stb off, the press the OK/Select button). Got into the menu, got into the "user setting status" menu. However, I can't figure out to change the TV Type, YPbPr output, or the change the 4:3 override settings. I think I have seen posts here indicating that posters have gone in and modified these settings, but I don;t recall how they were able to select each function and then change it.

So, how do I change those settings and what should I change them to?

I have a Sony KDF-42WE655 widescreen hdtv...

Thanks in advance for the assistance.

Power off the STB and press MENU

Got into it and started making some changes...

However, would anyone be willing to give me some advice based on the TV I have (Sony KDF-42WE655)?

Hey guys,

Quick question regarding HDMI and it is NOT the audio issue 95% of this thread discusses... :)

Using HDMI, when I go into the setup menu (with STB off), I see some "advanced options" for HDMI...what do these settings do? I didn't recognize any of the options/acronyms...

I'll take a look at it again when I get home and post the options...

never seen these either

who's your cable company and what is the firmware level?

are you in the second menu or the first "user" menu?

tnx
jim

I have Comcast and it is in the first screen I enter with the unit off...

On that initial screen, I have the option of "Advanced HDMI Options" which when selected, brings me to another screen with the fore-mentioned options I don't recognize.

I'll be home shortly and will post the actual option names...

The Ethernet and USB ports are not active on my unit. No one at the Comcast office in Eugene, Oregon knew if the FireWire or SATA ports were enabled, so I'll have to wait to learn about that. My firmware is #12.18. Comcast couldn't tell me if there were any plans to upgrade to #12.22. Firmware: yes. SATA: no.

What hassle?

Maxtor makes a plug and play unit. They already have availability for the SA8300 STB. Little to no R&D effort on Comcast's part. The hassle of upgrading the firmware to allow for external drives. I would assume this isn't free and takes a fair amount of time (although from what I understand Motorola does all the actual legwork)

I get home,open the box, and tadaaaaa...I got a phase III box with the HDMI input. ~rolleyes~ Just to clarify, it's an HDMI output. :)

Here in Central New Jersey, Comcast does not charge a service fee when they replace the box. Each service visit is a little bit of a lottery. If they don't show up in the two hour window they pay you $20.00. I will let you know what happens.

Well, I am $20 ahead since the tech did not arrive in the appointment window. When he did arrive he was clueless about 6412 phase III box and sata. Since he did not have 'booties' for his feet the appointment had to be rescheduled. Any time I make an appointment I tell the CR that booties must be worn by the tech or they will not be let in. The techs are forbidden to take off their shoes/boots by company policy so they must have booties. I've had many calls when they show up with mud on their feet and expect to get entrance. So, always ask for booties. Since fees are going up another 6% in Janaury, they can afford it.

Well, I am $20 ahead since the tech did not arrive in the appointment window. When he did arrive he was clueless about 6412 phase III box and sata. Since he did not have 'booties' for his feet the appointment had to be rescheduled. Any time I make an appointment I tell the CR that booties must be worn by the tech or they will not be let in. The techs are forbidden to take off their shoes/boots by company policy so they must have booties. I've had many calls when they show up with mud on their feet and expect to get entrance. So, always ask for booties. Since fees are going up another 6% in Janaury, they can afford it.

ROFLMBO -- booties......... :rolleyes:

So, always ask for booties.
Classic line. Brilliant.

Okay, why do my digital movie channels display in 4:3 when I have my phase III 6412 set to 16:9??

Okay, why do my digital movie channels display in 4:3 when I have my phase III 6412 set to 16:9??
That's prabably how they broadcast. On HBO-HD movies are in 16x9(HD), but almost everything between them is 4x3(HD) (16x9 with black bars on the sides).

Does any one know any where is the great U S of A they sell the new 6412 sata where can i get my hands on one???? :) :) :)

Does any one know any where is the great U S of A they sell the new 6412 sata where can i get my hands on one???? :) :) :)


What Country do you live in?

I have posted a PDF of the manual for the 6412 Phase III here: Motorola 6412 Phase III Manual (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=612109) for your enjoyment. :)

I have posted a PDF of the manual for the 6412 Phase III here: Motorola 6412 Phase III Manual (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=612109) for your enjoyment. :)


And I have added this file to my AVS Download site Here:

http://www.scan-pa.com/AVS/

What Country do you live in?
i live just north in canada

Does any one know any where is the great U S of A they sell the new 6412 sata where can i get my hands on one???? :) :) :)

What could you possibly do w. it since it needs to be activated by your "local" cable co.?

...mike

See the solution below, that I've added later, to the problem I describe here:

I just found that my Phase III box mutes all audio outputs, both analog and digital, during a preset timed recording. I'm using HDMI to the TV. It also was muted when I swapped to the other tuner, during the timed recording. I could find no way to activate the audio on any menu and the Mute button had no effect. A "mute" indicator was displayed at the top of the screen. After the recording ended, the audio came back. When I manually initiate a recording of an ongoing program, there is no muting.
-----------------------------------------------------

I'm adding this section later, as I've found a fix. It was in a message I'd printed out for myself, as first posted by Keenan. To change the Mute button on the 6412 remote controler from its default function of muting a TV, so that it will mute or unmute the cablebox itself, follow this procedure:

1. Press the Cable button on the top of the remote controler.

2. Press and hold the Setup button until it blinks twice.

3. Press 994 on the keypad.

4. Press the Setup button just momentarily.

5. Press 00141

6. Press the Mute button

The Mute button should now unmute the box when its audio is blanked out during the timed recording process. For those with a remote controler without a Setup button, I have no information on a solution.

What could you possibly do w. it since it needs to be activated by your "local" cable co.?

...mike
well since you asked if i buy one the digital SN gets enterd into the dac (local cable companys computer) as a valid box and i can use it
do you know any cable companies in the US selling the new 6412

i run hdmi from my 6412p3 w/12.18 and have not seen any muting issues. the audio does get pretty weak at times requiring near full throttle on the tv to hear it at normal volumes.

jim

No one in the USA sells the 6412 phase 3 or any version of the 6412. I wouldn't even buy one because the boxes and firmware/software are not stable enough yet.

Andrew Wees

well since you asked if i buy one the digital SN gets enterd into the dac (local cable companys computer) as a valid box and i can use it
do you know any cable companies in the US selling the new 6412

See the solution below, that I've added later, to the problem I describe here:

I just found that my Phase III box mutes all audio outputs, both analog and digital, during a preset timed recording.

I'm adding this section later, as I've found a fix. It was in a message I'd printed out for myself, as first posted by Keenan. To change the Mute button on the 6412 remote controler from its default function of muting a TV, so that it will mute or unmute the cablebox itself, follow this procedure:

1. Press the Cable button on the top of the remote controler.
2. Press and hold the Setup button until it blinks twice.
3. Press 994 on the keypad.
4. Press the Setup button just momentarily.
5. Press 00141
6. Press the Mute button

The Mute button should now unmute the box when its audio is blanked out during the timed recording process. For those with a remote controler without a Setup button, I have no information on a solution.

Steve ,

1. MUTE happenes when cable box was off before timer recording. Comacast CSR told me that it was know bug and that they working on it.

2. Unmuting can be done easyily. It is described in that manual that came with the remote:

CHANGING VOLUME LOCK

The Comcast Custom 3-Device universal remote control is set at the factory to control the TV volume in all modes.

However, you may change the Volume Lock setting to individual Volume Unlock to unlock a specific device’s volume controls for independent operation in its own mode (e.g.,Audio Receiver volume controls in the AUX mode).

Or, if desired, you can perform Global Volume Unlock so that the volume controls of all devices can be independently operated in their own modes.

Unlocking Volume Control For A Single Device (Individual Volume Unlock):

1. Press a desired mode key where you want volume to be unlocked (e.g., CABLE) and controlled within its own mode.
2. Press and hold Setup until the selected mode key blinks twice, then release Setup.
3. Enter 9-9-3 and then press VOL once. The mode key will blink four times confirming unlock.
4. If desired, repeat steps 1 to 3 (of this section) for each device that you want volume to be unlocked.
5. Now, after you select a device that has volume unlocked (e.g., CABLE), pressing VOL+, VOL-, or Mute,will control the device’s volume only in its own mode.

Locking Volume Control To TV Mode (Restoring Global Volume Lock To The Default Mode):

1. Press TV once.Then, press and hold Setup until the TV key blinks twice, then release Setup.
2. Enter 9-9-3 and then press TV once.The mode key will blink twice confirming global lock.
3. Now,when you press VOL+, VOL-, or Mute, the volume of the selected device (e.g., TV) will be controlled regardless of the mode you have selected.

What could you possibly do w. it since it needs to be activated by your "local" cable co.?

...mike


Mike,

Most Canada Cable operators do not rent the STB to the cable subscribers, they normaly sell them in the $400.00 -> $800.00 range.... or the Cable subscriber can purchase them elseware.

EBAY is not a good place due to Most STB are more then likely STOLEN...

Can you imagine spending $$$ on a cable box, and then having to upgrade to a new one in less then a year.......

The Comcast fee list in my region for equipment not returned, shows a $479. charge for a Motorola 6412 Phase III. They also want $4.69 for the remote controler.

Steve McD & Kabanero,

Thanks very much for posting the info on the mute issue. I've only had my 6412 Series III for a week. So far so good but my wife just called me at work saying this exact thing is happening (there is a timed recording occurring that started when the box was off). Nice to know there is a fix.

does anybody know when sata might be avaliable (for external storage) in the 6412 with passport software?

Muting during recording is a feature, not a bug. The idea is if you have your audio going to an audio system, always leave the audio system on, and schedule a recording for the middle of the night on the box in your bedroom, you would be awakened by the audio going on if the box didn't mute itself.
To avoid this, never turn your 6412 off, and, instead, turn your audio system off when you don't want to hear anything.
Turning your 6412 off only turns off the front display, anyway.
And people have had other issues when they turn their boxes "off."

does anybody know when sata might be avaliable (for external storage) in the 6412 with passport software?

Who is your cable provider?


FWIW:

Comcast Cable has dropped all current plans to enable the SATA port on any of the Motorola DCT STB for external HD storage. They have also dropped plans to Rent External HD.

(this info came from a Tier 2 Tech Support Dept. Mgr.)

Thanks nielloeb. Makes sense to just leave the 6412 on.

I found this info posted by forum member Einride about reprogramming the remote from a couple months back. Now the All On button on my remote only effects my TV which is exactly what I wanted.

press Cable
Hold Setup until two blinks
enter 994
press Setup momentarily
enter 00111 (this is a bogus code that does nothing)
press Power
Watch for two blinks (if not two blinks, start over)


Muting during recording is a feature, not a bug. The idea is if you have your audio going to an audio system, always leave the audio system on, and schedule a recording for the middle of the night on the box in your bedroom, you would be awakened by the audio going on if the box didn't mute itself.
To avoid this, never turn your 6412 off, and, instead, turn your audio system off when you don't want to hear anything.
Turning your 6412 off only turns off the front display, anyway.
And people have had other issues when they turn their boxes "off."

1. MUTE happenes when cable box was off before timer recording. Comacast CSR told me that it was know bug and that they working on it. It's a known feature, not a known bug. See the post a couple above this one.

It's a known feature, not a known bug. See the post a couple above this one.

It is a bug and has been fixed in some Head End Plants F/W 9.19, 9.21, 10.xx, 12.xx

I have had the following Moto DCT series STB:

6412p1 w/ F/W 9.12 Has the Mute problem
6412p1 w/ F/W 9.15 Has the Mute problem
6412p2 w/ F/W 9.17 Has the Mute problem
6412p2 w/ F/W 9.19 Has the mute problem
6412p2 W/ F/W 9.19 Does not have the mute problem (2nd. Box)
6412p2 w/ F/W 9.21 Does not have the mute problem
6412p3 w/ F/W 10.12 Does not have the mute problem
3412p1 w/ F/W 12.22 Does not have the mute problem


YMMV

A little help!!!

Can anyone tell me when the firmware upgrade to the 6412 p3 occurred? When I first received my 6412, I was on 12.18 and now it's 12.22. The reason I ask is b/c I now seem to be receiving a distortion when watching the scrolling sports scores on ESPN HD (on occasion, a distortion line appears and flickers for a few seconds).

I can fix the problem when I turn off my 6412, hit the menu button, and change my YPbPr output from 1080i to 480p. Obviously I don't want to downgrade my signal to 480p, but it's the only solution I have found so far. Hopefully this is just a temporary solution and someone on this forum or my cable company (Insight) will have some answers for me.

Thanks in advance!

A little help!!!

Can anyone tell me when the firmware upgrade to the 6412 p3 occurred? When I first received my 6412, I was on 12.18 and now it's 12.22.

No one but the Head End Plant Mgr. can answer that question. F/W release in one area does not mean it will be released in another area. F/W goes through several stages before it is released by the local head end and sent to each STB.


The reason I ask is b/c I now seem to be receiving a distortion when watching the scrolling sports scores on ESPN HD (on occasion, a distortion line appears and flickers for a few seconds).

I can fix the problem when I turn off my 6412, hit the menu button, and change my YPbPr output from 1080i to 480p. Obviously I don't want to downgrade my signal to 480p, but it's the only solution I have found so far. Hopefully this is just a temporary solution and someone on this forum or my cable company (Insight) will have some answers for me.

Thanks in advance!

Did you try 720p? ESPN uses 720p due to 720p better suited for fast moving objects. (sports)

Have comcast swap out the box.

Thanks for the help Scanpa. I am having my cable company come out on Tuesday to change out the box. I would change the setting to 720p, but my HDTV is an older model and it only receives signals from 480p and 1080i. I will post a message when my box is replaced to give everyone who cares an update.

Thanks for the help Scanpa. I am having my cable company come out on Tuesday to change out the box. I would change the setting to 720p, but my HDTV is an older model and it only receives signals from 480p and 1080i. I will post a message when my box is replaced to give everyone who cares an update.

Good Luck and pray that it was just a faulty STB.

You know the funny thing is that I never received this distortion when I was running the 12.18 Firmware version. Go figure.

ok so can i buy one from you ha ha ha why is it so hard to get your hands on one of these dam boxses

Does anyone in this thread know if the Moto 6412 Phase III is available from Adelphia cable in Loudoun County, VA?

I recently switched from Dish (due to the 942 fiasco) and was given the 6412 p2...I'd prefer the p3 for HDMI (so I don't have to waste $$$ on a DVI cable or adapter) and improved SD quality. I've called the CSR phone reps, but of course they are no help and won't connect me with the local distro...I'm trying to save myself from a drive out there and the ensuing painful conversation with a disenchanted clerk.

Thanks for the help.

Does anyone in this thread know if the Moto 6412 Phase III is available from Adelphia cable in Loudoun County, VA?

I recently switched from Dish (due to the 942 fiasco) and was given the 6412 p2...I'd prefer the p3 for HDMI (so I don't have to waste $$$ on a DVI cable or adapter) and improved SD quality. I've called the CSR phone reps, but of course they are no help and won't connect me with the local distro...I'm trying to save myself from a drive out there and the ensuing painful conversation with a disenchanted clerk.

Thanks for the help.


Don't know about Adelphia. In any case, do not confuse the CSRs with references to "Phase III" or any other phase. "Phase" is not in the CSR vocabulary. Just ask about a box with a HDMI connector--or a ity-bitty digital connector, not the great big one--whatever causes them to say "Oh, yeah."

If that does not get you anywhere, try connecting to tech support. But do not mention "Phase" to them either.

Don't know about Adelphia. In any case, do not confuse the CSRs with references to "Phase III" or any other phase. "Phase" is not in the CSR vocabulary. Just ask about a box with a HDMI connector--or a ity-bitty digital connector, not the great big one--whatever causes them to say "Oh, yeah."

If that does not get you anywhere, try connecting to tech support. But do not mention "Phase" to them either.


ROFLMBO!


There are a select few CSR in both sales and support that do have some brains and know the product.......

With the phase 3, it is in black letters on the front of the 6412 STB. Same with the 3412, it says phase 1 on the front. :D

A little help!!!

Can anyone tell me when the firmware upgrade to the 6412 p3 occurred? When I first received my 6412, I was on 12.18 and now it's 12.22. The reason I ask is b/c I now seem to be receiving a distortion when watching the scrolling sports scores on ESPN HD (on occasion, a distortion line appears and flickers for a few seconds).


It seems extremely unlikely that any picture anomaly that occurs only on one channel--and, I suppose from your post, only when a crawler appears--is caused by anything other than the picture source. If your problem is still there now, you might want to ask the guys at ESPN.

I recall a time about a year ago when the news crawler on Fox News Channel developed some horizontal jitter--even though the main picture was steady and the sound was undistorted. That problem was intermittent also. They took about two weeks to finally get it fixed.

What you are describing, if it originates in your cable box, would be coming from the digital signal processor--doing its thing by unconverting the 720p signal from ESPN HD to 1080i--producing some unwanted picture garbage. If so, you might see the same thing on Comcast Sportsnet HD, ABC HD, and NBC HD. These channels throw in a crawler on their live sports broadcasts from time to time. Even local news shows in my area (DC) use crawlers for weather and traffic updates.

Last night the video on several of the HD channels, and I think some of the SD channels as well IIRC, was jerky (I'm not sure how else to describe it). There would be very brief pauses and then the video would seem to jump forward to catch up. It wasn't constant but was happening very often. I know it's not my TV because my recorded programs didn't exhibit this behavior. And I know it was happening on more than one channel, Discovery HD and INHD both were doing it for sure.

I'm guessing it's the box, but I'm wondering if it's maybe just Comcast having a bad day in my area. Has anyone else exeperienced this?

It is a bug and has been fixed in some Head End Plants F/W 9.19, 9.21, 10.xx, 12.xx They may have changed the functionality due to popular demand (I haven't really ever had an issue with this since I always leave the box turned on) but previously they had not acknowledged it as a bug. They may have changed their stance at some point due to enough complaints. Also, Comcast doesn't really have the "authority" to call something a bug since they don't program the firmware. In any case I'd just avoid using the term bug, since I've read in several places that the muting was the originally intended behavior.

They may have changed the functionality due to popular demand (I haven't really ever had an issue with this since I always leave the box turned on) but previously they had not acknowledged it as a bug. They may have changed their stance at some point due to enough complaints. Also, Comcast doesn't really have the "authority" to call something a bug since they don't program the firmware. In any case I'd just avoid using the term bug, since I've read in several places that the muting was the originally intended behavior.


Comcast does refine the F/W before it is beta tested for the head end plant.

Last night the video on several of the HD channels, and I think some of the SD channels as well IIRC, was jerky (I'm not sure how else to describe it). There would be very brief pauses and then the video would seem to jump forward to catch up. It wasn't constant but was happening very often. I know it's not my TV because my recorded programs didn't exhibit this behavior. And I know it was happening on more than one channel, Discovery HD and INHD both were doing it for sure.

I'm guessing it's the box, but I'm wondering if it's maybe just Comcast having a bad day in my area. Has anyone else exeperienced this?
Yes, I have seen this problem. To me, it looks like the box is in a state where it cannot keep up with the full frame rate when playing HD, and drops frames. My wife and I both witnessed it, on pre-recorded and live HD material, and it was so bad we almost stopped watching the last episode of Rome. The next morning, it was still noticeable, but less so, and by the time the Comcast tech arrived, it had disappeared, of course.

I've seen it twice - both times it was after the box had lost power earlier in the day (once when I yanked the plug while messing around, the other time due to wind-induced intermittent power to the neighborhood). I'm wondering if it could be due to the box updating the guide in the background. Poor engineering, if so.

I don't know if anyone else has reported this problem - glad you did.

I've seen it twice - both times it was after the box had lost power earlier in the day (once when I yanked the plug while messing around, the other time due to wind-induced intermittent power to the neighborhood). I'm wondering if it could be due to the box updating the guide in the background. Poor engineering, if so.

Now that you mention it, the first time I noticed this was when I first got my box. So I think your definitely on to something with this behavior being related to the box losing power. Ours has been locking up on us lately and the only way to fix this is to unplug it. It might be time for a replacement box but I hate to lose (and my wife really would hate to lose) all of our recordings!

Now that you mention it, the first time I noticed this was when I first got my box. So I think your definitely on to something with this behavior being related to the box losing power. Ours has been locking up on us lately and the only way to fix this is to unplug it. It might be time for a replacement box but I hate to lose (and my wife really would hate to lose) all of our recordings!
Exactly - we can get a replacement unit anytime we ask (direct from the technician), but first we have to catch up on what we've recorded. Not so easy when you have a 2 year-old. If only they'd allow/support offloads to an external drive or PC. We're getting pretty bad dropouts on a lot of the recorded material, but since our signal strength looks good, the only thing they can suggest is a replacement. I'm starting to think this Motorola box is a piece of crap compared to the DirecTivo box we had for so many years - more glitches (compared to zero) and an unfriendly user interface. With bad dropouts, audio will stop, only to be restored by a pause/play, skipping back you get audio well before video, we get a burst of horrible digital noise when playing back certain on-demand material (Sesame Street), etc.

I just got a new STB today. It is DCT 3412/2305 Phase 1. How does this unit compare to the phase 3s?

What you are describing, if it originates in your cable box, would be coming from the digital signal processor--doing its thing by unconverting the 720p signal from ESPN HD to 1080i--producing some unwanted picture garbage. If so, you might see the same thing on Comcast Sportsnet HD, ABC HD, and NBC HD. These channels throw in a crawler on their live sports broadcasts from time to time. Even local news shows in my area (DC) use crawlers for weather and traffic updates.


Einride, I know exactly what you are saying. I have been waiting for some college basketball on Saturday or some NFL football on Sunday or Monday to compare the sports crawler with. I will post whether or not those HD channels do the same thing.

Thanks for the help!

Nevermind. I just realized this is a different box, not a different phase of the 6412. In any case, if you're curious about it--it sucks. I'll report details in the 3412 thread.

Nevermind. I just realized this is a different box, not a different phase of the 6412. In any case, if you're curious about it--it sucks. I'll report details in the 3412 thread.
Speaking of the 3412, my area still has a few analog channels, so we can't get the 34xx series yet. But, since most of those analog channels are already available as HD, I wonder if it's possible to talk Comcast into giving me a 3432, which I understand is a 320GB version of the 6412 without analog capability. Hmm.

Speaking of the 3412, my area still has a few analog channels, so we can't get the 34xx series yet. But, since most of those analog channels are already available as HD, I wonder if it's possible to talk Comcast into giving me a 3432, which I understand is a 320GB version of the 6412 without analog capability. Hmm.

Comcast has not ordered any of the 3432's. Only 3412's for subscribers and a few 3416's for Comcast execs...... :mad:

Last night the video on several of the HD channels, and I think some of the SD channels as well IIRC, was jerky (I'm not sure how else to describe it). There would be very brief pauses and then the video would seem to jump forward to catch up. It wasn't constant but was happening very often. I know it's not my TV because my recorded programs didn't exhibit this behavior. And I know it was happening on more than one channel, Discovery HD and INHD both were doing it for sure.

I'm guessing it's the box, but I'm wondering if it's maybe just Comcast having a bad day in my area. Has anyone else exeperienced this?


I've experienced this a couple of times, and it's always been right after the unit was unplugged/plugged-in. Perhaps it's downloading guide information that's consuming processing power. The stuttering doesn't last very long, so it hasn't really bothered me.

I was finally able to return my 6412-III and get a nice, new yet old 6412, a non-phase III model. In the past month, I've had 1 6208, 2 6412-III's, and 1 6412 (DVI) model, and my thinking is that the new III's use new video processing/decoding techniques to enhance standard definition programming on HDTV's. Many have claimed that SD is much improved for them now, where before, the quality was atrocious.

However, on my TV, the quality with my old 6208 (and now with my 6412-DVI) is ok on the lower SD channels and good to pretty good on the upper SD channels. By comparison the 6412-III softened the image too much on my TV for all SD channels, and I also felt like it was distorting the color range somehow, and I could never quite compensate for it. Perhaps the new III's help to enhance picture quality for those with fixed pixel displays, as opposed to those with good 'ol tubes, like me.

And now i have dual-tuner capabilities, satisfying PQ, and no more HDMI/Dolby Digital weirdness! I guess this is a personal lesson in not always getting the latest and shiniest toy.

Perhaps the new III's help to enhance picture quality for those with fixed pixel displays, as opposed to those with good 'ol tubes, like me. I have a tube TV and I consider the SD picture quality on the 6412 PIII to be a LOT better than it was on the old DVI 6412 I had. I guess it's personal preference - maybe I like so-called "soft" (whatever that means) pictures better.

I have a tube TV and I consider the SD picture quality on the 6412 PIII to be a LOT better than it was on the old DVI 6412 I had. I guess it's personal preference - maybe I like so-called "soft" (whatever that means) pictures better.
I also have a CRT television and consider the SD picture quality on the new P3 to be a vast improvement. I was having RC response problems with my first P3 that I got so I called Adelphia and they sent a tech out. He brought an older P2 box instead of a replacement P3 unfortunately. I was going to use the older box until they could come out again and bring another P3, but once he hooked up the P2 box I was instantly reminded of how bad the SD channels looked on it. So in the end I decided sluggish RC response was a lesser evil than awful SD picture quality. I still haven't switched out the P3 box with the RC response issue because there isn't a quick and easy way to unload programs I want to keep permanently. I have a JVC 40K DVHS player that I use for this function, but it's kind of a pain to use, and I'm short on time (especially around the holidays) as it is. One day I know there will be a perfect version of the 6412. Until then, we suffer....

I currently have a Phase I 3412, a Phase III 6412, and a older 6412 (6412/2005) so if anyone needs any comparison done between the three, ask. Currently working on getting the other two replaced with 3412 P I's as soon as I get the recordings onto my DVD Recorder. My only HDTV has DVI (well, component too, duh) , and I have a HDMI to DVI adaptor also. The other TVs are hooked up via S-Video and Coax RF.

Also I asked the Comcast Tech about bigger storage for the DVR's. He said Comcast is switching to Sony for their DVRs. Anyone have any info on that.

Also the Tech went through and tested EVERYTHING. He checked that OnDemand worked, that a whole bunch of channels worked, and some settings in the diagnostic menu worked, even the signal strength off the wall. There was a DVR there before though. Thats the first time I saw any tech check all those things. Mainly they turn it on and see that it makes picture and sound and thats it. And fiddle with some settings like auto-tune and thats it.

[QUOTE=cjc84]I currently have a Phase I 3412, a Phase III 6412, and a older 6412 (6412/2005) so if anyone needs any comparison done between the three, ask. [QUOTE]

So, do you see any difference in PQ for SD analog and digital channels with your new 3412 compared to the 6412 III? (I presume that good HD channels are excellent on both.)

[QUOTE=cjc84]I currently have a Phase I 3412, a Phase III 6412, and a older 6412 (6412/2005) so if anyone needs any comparison done between the three, ask. [QUOTE]

So, do you see any difference in PQ for SD analog and digital channels with your new 3412 compared to the 6412 III? (I presume that good HD channels are excellent on both.)


FYI,

on a 3412 there is no analog cable ch. All cable Ch. are digital.

FYI,

on a 3412 there is no analog cable ch. All cable Ch. are digital.

Ah, that's nice. So that means one can't get one of these until our area is all digtial?

Ah, that's nice. So that means one can't get one of these until our area is all digtial?

Correct. All Digital or Digital Simulcast of the Analog Tier. (ADS)

So, do you see any difference in PQ for SD analog and digital channels with your new 3412 compared to the 6412 III? (I presume that good HD channels are excellent on both.)

I notice no difference, or hardly any difference. One thing I would like to see, is have the reds be more sharp. That really bugs me, on any Digital box I saw.

has anyone read this old article ?
http://news.designtechnica.com/print_talkback45.html

some of the issues with hdmi might be related.

Does anyone have the 12.22 firmware? I think my box just had it installed yesterday. The reason I think this is because my "skip" feature doesn't work anymore. Has anyone else had this issue?

(I programmed the remote from a posting in this thread several weeks back.)

Thanks
Dave

Does anyone have the 12.22 firmware? I think my box just had it installed yesterday. The reason I think this is because my "skip" feature doesn't work anymore. Has anyone else had this issue?

(I programmed the remote from a posting in this thread several weeks back.)

Thanks
Dave

I have the 12.22 F/W on 1 6412p3 & a 3412p1, no problem with the 15 sec. skip, 30 sec. skip, 3 min skip.

I have the 12.22 F/W on 1 6412p3 & a 3412p1, no problem with the 15 sec. skip, 30 sec. skip, 3 min skip.

Skip feature on the 6412p3? Is that carrier specific? I have the 6412p3 with Comcast and I'm not aware of any Skip forware feature, only skip back with no options for the amount of time to skip back. Am I missing something? That's a very useful feature and I would hate to miss out on it.

Thanks

I will repost instructions because they are buried deep in this thread.

----------------------

How to program the remote for 30, 60, 90, 120 (and more) Second Skip

Create a 30 second skip using the following directions:

1) Press the "Cable" button at the top of the remote to put it into Cable Box control mode.
2) Press and hold the "Setup" button until the "Cable" button blinks twice.
3) Type in the code 994. The "Cable" button will blink twice
4) Press (do not hold) the "Setup" button
5) Type in the code 00173 for 30 second Skip.
6) Press whatever button you want to map the skip to.

Next, you create a macro using your new 30 second skip:

1) Press and hold down the "Setup" button until the light blinks twice.
2) Press 995.
3) Press the key you want to assign the X second skip to.
4) Press the button that you have used for the 30 second skip x times. (2 times for 60 seconds, 3 times for 90 seconds, and so on.)
5) Press and hold the "Setup" button until the light blinks twice to exit programming.

X = 30, 60, 90, 180, etc.

I have the 12.22 F/W on 1 6412p3 & a 3412p1, no problem with the 15 sec. skip, 30 sec. skip, 3 min skip.

How do you set up the 3 min skip? I have the 30 sec one programmed.

now that i've successfully made a mess out of my remote (but i know now how to do it right again) how do i reset it to default?

How do you set up the 3 min skip? I have the 30 sec one programmed.
See the post right above yours. :)

Thanks Kabanero! I will definitely be programming my remote!

Just switched to Comcast in the Portland metro area and got a 6412/III, firmware 12.18. Originally hooked up with component to my Panasonic PT-50LC13, then bought an HDMI-DVI cable, unfortunately before reading this thread. Yes, I've got the infamous problem with no DD output from the DVR when HDMI is connected. (At least that's the first problem.) So, a while back one person posted:

For those who have had trouble getting a Dolby Digital 5.1 output to a receiver from a Phase III box, when the HDMI port is used, try this: Hook up a coaxial digital audio output instead of an optical one. I couldn't get any audio to go over an optical cord when the HDMI was connected to a TV.
However, with a coaxial digital cord, DD 5.1 and any other type of audio, passes to my receiver at all times.
Steve (or anyone who's tried this), are you saying you get DD through coax, even when playing back DVR recordings? Doesn't sound like your original problem was the same as mine, as I do get audio over optical, even DD, as long as I'm not watching a recording. Don't want to waste money on yet another cable that won't work; I'm just looking for confirmation first.

Second problem is worse, and I've only seen one post on it. When I have the HDMI connected, I get a long and unpredictable delay on all commands, whether entered via the remote or the front panel. Delay can be several seconds to almost a minute, then all button pushes get run through at once. Completely unusable. The one post I saw suggested handshake issues, but I do get perfect video over the HDMI port.... Anyone else have this problem? Any ideas as to whether the 12.22 firmware upgrade (if ever available here) might fix this as well?

i am also very curious if the coax works... in fact I have one, it just never occured to me to use it... unfortunately i'm in the office and unable to test it out until later, but i'll let you know if someone doesn't beat me to it...

Does anyone have the 12.22 firmware? I think my box just had it installed yesterday. The reason I think this is because my "skip" feature doesn't work anymore. Has anyone else had this issue?

(I programmed the remote from a posting in this thread several weeks back.)

Thanks
Dave

My 30sec skip no longer works.
12.22 firmware
Insight
Kokomo, IN

My 30sec skip no longer works.
12.22 firmware
Insight
Kokomo, IN
Even if you re-program it?

Even if you re-program it?
It no longer works with the standard remote (re-programmed, checked twice) or my harmony remote. It had worked with both remotes for 2 months until I noticed it tonight. The lower right LED of the display will flash very fast when the command is sent, but nothing happens.

Sorry to verify bad news.

Sounds like the advertisers have struck. :(

bad news, the coax doesn't work for me, same issues as with the optical... save urself 30 bucks :)

Comcast has been under pressure for some time over the issue......it was coming.

The CEO Brian Roberts was asked point blank about this skip feature a couple of years back and fired back with a "no comment". It's a touchy subject.

Comcast has been under pressure for some time over the issue......it was coming.

The CEO Brian Roberts was asked point blank about this skip feature a couple of years back and fired back with a "no comment". It's a touchy subject.


What about using a macro to cause a ~30 sec fast forward? Still one key press and although not as instantaneous, still a poke in the eye to commercials.

Could this be done?

Anyone know if the elimination of the 30 second skip is specific to Comcast or 12.22 in general? I have a different cable company but the same equipment and am on 12.18.

curtisdr
mflintoff and I are both on Insight. So it might just be insight specific, but it probably is not. The only thing that makes it somewhat decent, is that there seems to be a "5th" fast forward. Or at least one more fast forward then there was a few months back. but I'm not sure if it's specific to this firmware or not.

Have you tried reprogramming the cablebox for the skip forwards??

Sounds like the new software may have overwritten your macro.

ceccacci,

I just noticed the no DD via HDMI issue myself -- I just got an iScan VP30 and have my 6412P3 hooked up via HDMI. On the coax-out from the VP30 (which de-muxes the HDMI audio) I only get PCM -- no DD. But if I hook up a separate coax SPDIF connection from the 6412 to the VP30's coax input and program that one as the audio source for my HDMI video, I get perfect DD5.1 (if available). I can switch back-and-forth between coax and HDMI audio, and every time the HDMI audio drops DD.

So apparently this is a Motorola issue and not a DVDO one. <whew>

So does anyone here have contacts with Mot to push this?

-John

Something definitely changed in my firmware, as I also no longer have any skips that were previously programmed. First and foremost, I have a 6412 Phase III through Insight in north central Illinois.

I've had 12.22 firmware for several months now, as it was the fix for the DD5.1 audio when behind in a program or watching a pre-recorded program. But the other night (Wednesday the 14th I believe), my cablebox had been rebooted when I got home that night. I still shows firmware 12.22, but it has definitely changed. As stated above, no skips are working. And I've turned the remote back to default and reprogrammed. There is also a new screensaver option in the setup menu, and the main menu has slight reformatting that is noticeable. So, seems like a software update of sorts that didn't necessarily update the firmware past 12.22.

bad news, the coax doesn't work for me, same issues as with the optical... save urself 30 bucks :)I thought it sounded too good to be true. Thanks a lot for trying it out.

ceccacci,

I just noticed the no DD via HDMI issue myself -- I just got an iScan VP30 and have my 6412P3 hooked up via HDMI. On the coax-out from the VP30 (which de-muxes the HDMI audio) I only get PCM -- no DD. But if I hook up a separate coax SPDIF connection from the 6412 to the VP30's coax input and program that one as the audio source for my HDMI video, I get perfect DD5.1 (if available). I can switch back-and-forth between coax and HDMI audio, and every time the HDMI audio drops DD.

So apparently this is a Motorola issue and not a DVDO one. <whew>

So does anyone here have contacts with Mot to push this?

-JohnJohn- What version of firmware do you have? I don't use the audio over HDMI, just the separate SPDIF optical. And I do get DD over that, except when using the DVR (playback of previously recorded material or the buffer, and only if the HDMI cable is connected). Several have reported that particular problem is fixed by v12.22, so it's not so much a Motorola issue anymore as one for the individual cable franchises.

Sounds though as if yours might be a slightly different issue.

I have 12.18 still (Comcast.)

I do have a lead on what might be causing the issue, and I'll report back tonight if I'm able to fix it.

-John

Something definitely changed in my firmware, as I also no longer have any skips that were previously programmed. First and foremost, I have a 6412 Phase III through Insight in north central Illinois.

I've had 12.22 firmware for several months now, as it was the fix for the DD5.1 audio when behind in a program or watching a pre-recorded program. But the other night (Wednesday the 14th I believe), my cablebox had been rebooted when I got home that night. I still shows firmware 12.22, but it has definitely changed. As stated above, no skips are working. And I've turned the remote back to default and reprogrammed. There is also a new screensaver option in the setup menu, and the main menu has slight reformatting that is noticeable. So, seems like a software update of sorts that didn't necessarily update the firmware past 12.22.

I have had the same thing happen with my 6412 with Insight. I really liked that 30 second skip, but if I get one more level of speed with the fast forward that's OK.

So, anybody want to try the SATA drive option again with these latest changes we have gotten from Moto?

I have Insight in Columbus, OH and received the update Wednesday night. My 30 sec. skip function no longer works as well, even after reprogramming.

I have Insight in Columbus, OH and received the update Wednesday night. My 30 sec. skip function no longer works as well, even after reprogramming.


call the cable co. consumer complaint number.... and let them know how you feel.


Glad the 30/60/90/120 second skips all work on my 3412p1 w/ f/w 12.22

Well, I made another post about the 30 second skip not working before I was directed to these thread. It also seems to have the guide picture not displaying. The screen never pops into cutout in the upper right corner with the picture. The picture stays behind the guide at all times. Also I have had my box lock up 6 times since I turned it on today and had to pull the plug to reboot. I called Insight and they said they have no complaints about any problems with the upgrade, after talking to a tech there.

I have the Moto 6412 phase III box with Comcast here in Detroit. The last week or so I have not been receiving digital audio. I have my stb connected to my HT via digitial optical. It had been working as recently as Monday, however, the last several days, nada. My HT receiver just shows PCM.

Anyone with some helo or insight for me? Thianks in advance.

I know it is here in several places - but can't find it.

HOW do I bring up the screen that shows all the technical stuff eg. sig strength and software number?

Thanks. And this time I'll print it out and keep it in the cabinet under the 6412.

...mike

Turn the box off and then press enter on the remote. Brings up a long list of items. Can't remember which one is the software version, it's abot a third of the way down.

I know it is here in several places - but can't find it.

HOW do I bring up the screen that shows all the technical stuff eg. sig strength and software number?

Thanks. And this time I'll print it out and keep it in the cabinet under the 6412.

...mike

Menu, home, setup, configuration -> select to display. This shows you the bitrate and other technical stuff.

I just got a new 6412 III to replace a the 6200. Now I can't record to DVHS. The 30k says copy protected output 480i on all channels. How do I get around this?

I just got a new 6412 III to replace a the 6200. Now I can't record to DVHS. The 30k says copy protected output 480i on all channels. How do I get around this?

Exchange the box for 6412 Phase II, they have less bugs in their firmware.

I have the Moto 6412 phase III box with Comcast here in Detroit. The last week or so I have not been receiving digital audio. I have my stb connected to my HT via digitial optical. It had been working as recently as Monday, however, the last several days, nada. My HT receiver just shows PCM.

Anyone with some helo or insight for me? Thianks in advance.
Two questions: (1) What firmware do you have? (2) What video connection are you using?

Anyone know if the elimination of the 30 second skip is specific to Comcast or 12.22 in general? I have a different cable company but the same equipment and am on 12.18.
I have 12.22 with Adelphia and 30 sec skip still works perfectly.

I have the Moto 6412 phase III box with Comcast here in Detroit. The last week or so I have not been receiving digital audio. I have my stb connected to my HT via digitial optical. It had been working as recently as Monday, however, the last several days, nada. My HT receiver just shows PCM.

Anyone with some helo or insight for me? Thianks in advance.
Hi DrDetroit,

I am in suburban Detroit and have 6412 with DVI (so I guess it is phase II) and I don't get 5.1 DD surround sound on any HD channel from Comcast recently. My Sony AV receiver shows PCM. What's up with that?

Hi DrDetroit,

I am in suburban Detroit and have 6412 with DVI (so I guess it is phase II) and I don't get 5.1 DD surround sound on any HD channel from Comcast recently. My Sony AV receiver shows PCM. What's up with that?
When I've lost 5.1 DD I can get it back by turning off the 6412 and turning it back on.

When I've lost 5.1 DD I can get it back by turning off the 6412 and turning it back on.
Thanks HealeyGuy, it worked.

And what else strange, I recorded Flight of the Phoenix on 6412 DVR the other day. When I was playing it from DVR it was 2 channels PCM audio. And I just finished recording it to my WinXP PC about an hour ago. When I played it on PC with PowerDVD it was DD 5.1 audio. I guess, it is another bug in this 6412 box.

Hi DrDetroit,

I am in suburban Detroit and have 6412 with DVI (so I guess it is phase II) and I don't get 5.1 DD surround sound on any HD channel from Comcast recently. My Sony AV receiver shows PCM. What's up with that?

power off the STB and press menu within 2 sec.

move down to restore all settings and select that.

now reset you video settings above and exit the menu and turn the STB back on.

that should have restored the DD & DD5.1 Audio.

If not. You might need to do a reset on the STB.

What you will find on the 6412 Phase 3 box is that you can record in DD.5.1 and watch the show live in 5.1 but cannot watch a recordered show in 5.1 with the HDMI cable in.If you remove the HDMI cable you will get 5.1 from your recordered shows.This hopefully will be fixed by a Firmware upgrade soon

What you will find on the 6412 Phase 3 box is that you can record in DD.5.1 and watch the show live in 5.1 but cannot watch a recordered show in 5.1 with the HDMI cable in.If you remove the HDMI cable you will get 5.1 from your recordered shows.This hopefully will be fixed by a Firmware upgrade soon


If you have an HDMI source such as a STB, and connect it to your display via HDMI, you may not be able to get 5.1 digital bitstreams to come out of the coaxial or Toslink digital output of the STB at the same time as digital video and audio out of the HDMI output.

HDMI places no restrictions on any other digital or analog interface or any restrictions on the behavior of the product other than the behavior of the HDMI output (or input) itself. If a source device chooses to shut down other outputs, then that is a manufacturer product design decision (and I suggest probably a poor decision at that).

scanpa,

What I've seen is that the HDMI output will not send a show's DD signal (if available), but a coax connection sends DD from the same program, at the same time. I was able to verify this by toggling the audio "source" for the same HDMI video stream via my iScan VP30.

So in my case at least it appears to be HDMI-specific. Is this the "known issue" folks have been referring to? I have 12.18 FW...

-John

To add to the "magic" of DD 5.1 when using HDMI, today I was messing around with my set (Samsung HLR6168) and found that I could change the audio out from the STB by changing settings on the set. The Samsung sets have a way to assigning a name to each of the external inputs. I had no name assigned to the HDMI input and was getting PCM from the optical out of the STB. When I changed the name to HD STB (I've known that the naming changes some of the settings in the set but didn't really think about it) my receiver changed from PCM input to Dolby D with 5.1 sound. The only thing I can think is happening, is that what the set is telling the STB about what should be sent is being changed by the settings in the set. I need to do more work to see if the change is permanent, etc. I'll follow-up with more latter.

edit: This is with 12.18.

With my phase III and 12.18 firmware using HDMI video out to a DVI input on my plasma I noticed I wasn't getting DD from recordings and just found these posts. I get DD 5.1 or whatever is broadcast when watching channels with coax and optical. I just get PCM with optical or coax when watching recordings. I'm probably going to switch back to component output.

larry

FYI, the HDMI bug with DD 5.1 is apparently fixed in firmware 12.22, which has been rolled out to limited areas. Hopefully you'll get it soon.

To add to the "magic" of DD 5.1 when using HDMI, today I was messing around with my set (Samsung HLR6168) and found that I could change the audio out from the STB by changing settings on the set. The Samsung sets have a way to assigning a name to each of the external inputs. I had no name assigned to the HDMI input and was getting PCM from the optical out of the STB. When I changed the name to HD STB (I've known that the naming changes some of the settings in the set but didn't really think about it) my receiver changed from PCM input to Dolby D with 5.1 sound. The only thing I can think is happening, is that what the set is telling the STB about what should be sent is being changed by the settings in the set. I need to do more work to see if the change is permanent, etc. I'll follow-up with more latter.

edit: This is with 12.18.
Are you still getting DD5.1 when you play back recorded shows that were saved with DD 5.1 sound? The problem with DD 5.1 and HDMI on the 6412 III was that live broadcasts could be played in DD 5.1 (as long as it was the first thing you did and it was using tuner #1), but as soon as you went to play a recorded show it dropped to PCM.

Can anyone tell me when the firmware upgrade to the 6412 p3 occurred? When I first received my 6412, I was on 12.18 and now it's 12.22. The reason I ask is b/c I now seem to be receiving a distortion when watching the scrolling sports scores on ESPN HD (on occasion, a distortion line appears and flickers for a few seconds).

I can fix the problem when I turn off my 6412, hit the menu button, and change my YPbPr output from 1080i to 480p. Obviously I don't want to downgrade my signal to 480p, but it's the only solution I have found so far. Hopefully this is just a temporary solution and someone on this forum or my cable company (Insight) will have some answers for me.

A week ago I posted the above message. I had my cable company (Insight) bring out a new 6412 p3 and I am still having the problem with my ESPNHD channel. I have noticed that it only occurs when watching Live sporting events (i.e. college basketball), but not during Sports Center which is also in 720p. I viewed several sports programs within the past week and the only channel I really have problems with is ESPNHD. I did notice a flicker or two from FOXHD, but nothing to the extent of ESPN.

I am going to attempt to contact Insight and see if they can hook me up with a p3 that still has a 12.18 firmware option. I'm just going to attempt to narrow down the problem until I give up hope and blame it on my HDTV. I will post back with results.

FYI...My 30 second skip still works with my 12.22 p3.

I spoke with the Insight Technical Supervisor in Kokomo, IN today. He stated the removal of the 30 second skip was unintentional and should be fixed in the next software update.

We also discussed the issue with the video not showing correctly while in the menus and guide. The workaround for this is to center the screen in the Screen Position Setup. I verified that if you have the screen position to far off center the video is not scaled correctly and will not show up in the box.

These issues are related to an Insight software update not a firmware update.
S/W Ver. 73.44

There is no ETA for the next software update.

Thanks for the update mflintoff

My box is currently on 12.22, and the skip does not work for me either. I am not having the menu problem that you seem to be having, though.

Let's hope that Insight rolls out a quick fix for the skip problem.

Are you still getting DD5.1 when you play back recorded shows that were saved with DD 5.1 sound? The problem with DD 5.1 and HDMI on the 6412 III was that live broadcasts could be played in DD 5.1 (as long as it was the first thing you did and it was using tuner #1), but as soon as you went to play a recorded show it dropped to PCM.

Finally got back to looking at things. You are correct recorded shows still are only in PCM.

I tried to search but...

can i get the 6412 phase III without dvr service? I just want the hdmi output.

I will call this morning.

I tried to search but...

can i get the 6412 phase III without dvr service? I just want the hdmi output.

I will call this morning.

Considering the 6412 is a DVR, I sincerely doubt that they are going to give you the box just for the HDMI. I don't think they have a way to turn off the DVR function alone.

I tried to search but...

can i get the 6412 phase III without dvr service? I just want the hdmi output.

I will call this morning.Even if you can get it, are you sure you want it?? The HDMI output on the 6412/III is so buggy it's not usable for a lot of people, myself included.

I spoke with the Insight Technical Supervisor in Kokomo, IN today. He stated the removal of the 30 second skip was unintentional and should be fixed in the next software update.

Just checked my 30 sec skip and this time it appears to have been disabled. I have Insight in Louisville and I'm running the same software as everyone else; 73.44.

Anyone ever get any answers as to when Insight is going to release a new software update?

I got the 12.22 update a week ago and I dig the new screensaver. But I don't like that I'm having problems now locking into my HD channels. If I'm watching one tuner and trying to record anything in HD on the other tuner 25% of the time it doesn't work. I'll have to cancel the recording, switch tuners then switch back and switch again and then the HD will come back. Didn't happen before the new software...

Andy
I would like a copy of the 6412 installer setup guide. I have the 6412 Phase 3 box
Thank you
Seabee121usa@comcast.net

I have read this thread and used the search function and have been unable to find any mention of this particular problem. If it has been discussed already I would appreciate a pointer to that thread and I apologize for the repeat. I have the 6412 P3 and Comcast cable in the bay area. I am using component video to my Sony XBR and the optical out to my B&K AVR 307 receiver. The problem I am having is that when I play back recorded HD content (like the most recent CSI NY) I lose the audio signal after I use the fast forward button to move thru any commercials. I get good DD 5.1 if I start the recording from the beginning and don't FF thru the commercials but the first time I use the FF button and then play again I lose all sound. The only way I can get the sound back is rewind the program, change to live TV and then go back to the recorded content and start playback again. This behaviour is repeatable. Any help or insight would be greatly appreciated. Happy Holidays

bob

Andy
I would like a copy of the 6412 installer setup guide. I have the 6412 Phase 3 box
Thank you


And if you don't mind sending another one to 753951_AT_mail_dot_usa_dot_com for the same unit. (Sorry for the email, but I'm under 5 posts and board is preventing me to post it in regular format).

Sorry if this has already been answered...3 days spent reading 25 pages can make the mind forgetful!

I have two 6412's running firmware ver 9-19. I am curious about which series my 6412 is. Where can I find this info?

BTW...I am using Comcast in the Seattle area.

If you have 9.19 you have a phaseII box. PhaseIII would be ver. 12.22. Also, we (PII boxes) have DVI out, PIII boxes have HDMI out.

...mike

Sorry if this has already been answered...3 days spent reading 25 pages can make the mind forgetful!

I have two 6412's running firmware ver 9-19. I am curious about which series my 6412 is. Where can I find this info?

BTW...I am using Comcast in the Seattle area.

how can you find what firmware you're running?

thanks

how can you find what firmware you're running?

thanks

On your remote, press MENU, MENU, SETUP, CABLE BOX SETUP, SET TO DISPLAY.

If you have 9.19 you have a phaseII box. PhaseIII would be ver. 12.22. Also, we (PII boxes) have DVI out, PIII boxes have HDMI out.

...mike
I have phase III with 12.18 firmware.Did you call cable company for update? Thought these boxes were updated automatically.I'm in Dallas (large market).Thanks

Even if you can get it, are you sure you want it?? The HDMI output on the 6412/III is so buggy it's not usable for a lot of people, myself included.
What bugs would you be having. Just hooked up a 56HM195 Tosh. to a 6412 III via HDMI.Tried component first.Really same pq but a little different sound.I'm just using set speakers though.

What bugs would you be having. Just hooked up a 56HM195 Tosh. to a 6412 III via HDMI.Tried component first.Really same pq but a little different sound.I'm just using set speakers though.Search back a little in the thread and you'll see... but the most common bug (in boxes with firmware below version 12.22, which is most of us) is that you lose Dolby Digital output on recorded (or buffered) material when using an HDMI cable. It drops down to PCM. That's supposed to be resolved by 12.22, but you'll find people reporting different bugs with that firmware. A much smaller number of us also have control issues when using the HDMI port; it stops responding to commands from either the remote or the front panel, then processes them all at once, then gets stuck again.

Mine works acceptably well as long as I only use the component outputs, although I've still experienced a couple lockups and various DVR playback glitches. All in all I'm extremely unimpressed with Motorola's quality assurance department.

Hi,
I have a phase two box but I would like to not rent and to have more storage but still have dual tuners. Is there a dual tuner HD box out there?

thanks