SCIENTIFIC ATLANTA Master Thread for all PVR's/ DVR's and HD STB's

Please post in the appropriate thread by using the links below, OR feel free to post in this thread (by replying to the post) if you are not sure or want to ask a general question Please be sure to specify your LOCATION when posting (add it to your profile if possible)



SA 8000 HD PVR SARA (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=3127792&&#post3127792)

SA8000HD DVR - - SARA - Setup and Review Guide (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=4042229&&#post4042229)

SA 8300 HD Tips & Tricks -- SARA (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=4682052&&#post4682052)

SA 8000HD & 8300HD w/ Passport software (TWC) (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=4447772&&#post4447772)

Time Warner Navigator (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=8434087&&#post8434087)

8300HD and External SATA - It Works!! (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=5277957&&#post5277957)

and here are links to S/A HD stb's: these are not PVR's but they some have firewire ports to facilitate recording:

SA3250 Comprehensive Review Guide - Notes and Setup (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=3145627&&#post3145627)

SA 8300 HD with HDMI & DVR (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=4159698&&#post4159698)

Recording to PC from a SA 8300HD via Firewire (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=6380734&&#post6380734)

special Thanks to DoubleDAZ, hall, and vegggas for their help

How to determine your Operating System via the diagnostic menus on all SA STB's:
If you are on a SARA system, you can walk up to the box, press and hold the center "SELECT" button until the mailbox button lights up. Then, press the info button to enter diagnostic mode. Use PAGE UP or DOWN to scroll through pages. Most of them will say SARA within these pages.

EDIT ADDITION
To check for Passport operating system
In NYC to get into the diagnostics screen, hold "Select" or "+" and "Exit" at the same time until "Diag" appears on the screen, then hit these buttons again (just once) and you should be in Diag mode. One of the screens lists the software versions.
There are various channels and buttons to get software info in Passport, but they are different on each system and network. YMMV

vegggas

OK. If you use this thread to rech your intended thread, how do you start at the first unread reply? This overall thread takes you to the first original post. :confused:

This is really only for noobs who are not already subscribed to these threads so they can see that there may already be threads with answers to their questions. I subscribe to the threads I am interested in and they show up in my list when I sign in so I can still get to the last post like I always did.

veggas: Your instructions to get into DIAG mode work in TW's Western Ohio division too.

OK. If you use this thread to rech your intended thread, how do you start at the first unread reply? This overall thread takes you to the first original post. :confused:

just click on last page :)

I just picked up an HDMI cable for my TWC 8300HD DVR and am running into a problem. Not sure if it's the cable box or the TV or me.

I've got HDMI running from the cable box to my TV and an optical line from the cable box to my Dennon receiver. In the cable box set-up (under audio) I can select HDMI or Dolby Digital. If I select HDMI, I get sound out of the TV, but I don't get Dolby Digital out of my receiver (just plain stereo). However, if I select Dolby Digital in the cable set-up menu (under audio).. I get Dolby Digital out of my receiver, but DON'T get ANY sound out of my TV.

My TV manual (Mits 52528) states that it accepts Digital audio, but not multi-channel thought HDMI. I'm wondering if this is causing the problem with the cable box. It would be a pain to adjust this manually every time.

Any thoughts?

note to all

it is OK to post general questions to this master thread: please try to help folks here too either by directly answering the questions or providing a link

Thanks ;)

cs899,
For your problem with the 8300 and HDMI, you should check the "SA 8300 HD with HDMI & DVR" thread from the first post. It is fully documented many thimes in that thread.

vegggas

just click on last page :)
That doesn't help if there is more than one page you haven't read. This change may have simplified things for the moderators but it made these threads less useful im my opinion.

That doesn't help if there is more than one page you haven't read. This change may have simplified things for the moderators but it made these threads less useful im my opinion. Go to the first post and if any of the threads interest you, subscribe to them. They will show up on your "User CP" page whenever there is a new reply in each.

Yeah, nothing says you have to use this thread to get to any of the threads that have been unstuck. My problem with this thread is that now folks will post their questions here instead of the applicable thread and now we have yet another thread to keep up with, potenilly with a lot of duplicate informtion. I fully intend to follow vegggas' lead and simply refer folks to the right thread rather than start answering questions here. I don't mind the summary of links ot reduce sticky's, but the threads should have stayed in-use. I'm afraid we are going to end up with mulitple topics lumped into this single thread and lose the audience. Time will tell......

My problem with this thread is that now folks will post their questions here instead of the applicable thread and now we have yet another thread to keep up with, potenilly with a lot of duplicate informtion. I fully intend to follow vegggas' lead and simply refer folks to the right thread rather than start answering questions here. I don't mind the summary of links ot reduce sticky's, but the threads should have stayed in-use. I'm afraid we are going to end up with mulitple topics lumped into this single thread and lose the audience. Time will tell......

if you would prefer this thread be closed to posts, that can be done

No, Mark, I think it's too early for that decision. We'll just have to wait and see how folks react to the "suggestion" in the first post that they try to post in the appropriate thead. Most of the folks already here subscribe to those threads and will continue to post there. Noobs might not take the time and we'll end up with a hodge-podge here, we'll just have to see how it goes. If most of us who tend to answer questions resist the temptation to answer here and instead steer folks to the right thead, this may work out just fine. I guess my biggest concern is that a lot of time and effort have gone into keeping the Guides and Tips&Tricks posts updated and noobs will not take the time to check those posts before asking questions that have already been answered. I guess that's the nature of the beast and we'll all deal with it. If this threads get too cluttered and unwieldy, we can always change it's focus at a later date. I applaud the effort to reduce the sticky's while still tracking the threads that have served us well. As the 8300 moves forward, some of these threads have started getting less use and those that were not already sticky's were starting to head down the list, so putting links in a signle sticky was a good idea. It's just up to all of us to try to keep things somewhat organized into those threads.

Hi guys

I have both a SA 8300 DVR and a SA 3250. I have always recorded from the 3250 via firewire to my JVC and it works perfect.

My buddy just bought the JVC and just got the SA 8300. It would not record via firewire. It kept shutting his VCR off so they brought a second unit and same thing. Tonight I tried mine and same thing but my 3250 aloud me to record the same program just fine.

Ok..what gives with the 8300. Are we not aloud to record via the firewire on this. If I record HD to the hard drive I was also hoping to be able to dump to tape via firewire.

Any clues as to whats going on.

Thanks for your help..There is a lot to read in the other thread so hoping someone can save me a lot of reading :)

Against my better judgement, I'll answer this.

Firewire/1394 is NOT yet supported on the 8300. If your friend wants to use Firewire, he/she needs the 3250. When that will change is anyone's guess.

Since Alan's question is not easily defined, I'll go against better judgement and post some info too.
The 8300 is scheduled for a new firmware version (released by SA) before the end of the year that will allow firewire recording. This is the software that will also enable start from beginning, stop getting kicked out to live, 4th FF and REW speeds, better MultiRoom DVR support, external drive support, external AV passthrough and other features in a new build.
CableVision has a portion of the code in a large base of (all) their users, but it is considered to be a pre-released version without all the features and some bugs. So much so that all other cable co's are waiting for the final version later this year (hopefully) and opted not to release the current version as an add-on to the old code.

vegggas

Thanks Dave & vegggas. Not what I wanted to hear but at least I know its not something I was doing wrong on our end. It will be nice once the FW is finally activated.

Thanks for your help..There is a lot to read in the other thread so hoping someone can save me a lot of reading :) You really should ask in the appropriate thread for your cable provider. :D People in SARA areas may already have FW capabilities, while those in Passport Echo probably don't. Smaller cablecos though are implementing newer versions of Echo than the big cablecos and might see it sooner.

As for locking down this thread, my vote says lock it. Since it's a sticky, people will find it first and if they can, may be more likely to post in it. Since issues with these boxes are sooooo software and provider specific, they really belong in their "local" threads.

I have talked to Cox Cable here in Florida and they have told me that they are going to activate my firefire connection on my 8300. I had to get pretty angry with them to do so. They said the guy that's doing it will do so in a couple days because he's really busy. My question is what can I do with it? I would like to stream it to a computer or something. I also have the phillips DVDR with firewire and a sony camcorder with firwire. How can I see if it's activated? Any help would be great. Thanks
Bob

I've tried doing some searching but short of reading through 50 page threads I wasn't coming up with much. If the answers are out there I apologize ahead of time, I'm just looking for some quick answers.
Anyway, I have two HDTV's and two STB's from Comcast (SA 8300 HD DVR and SA 3250 HD). The 8300 is connected to a Mitsu 62725 via HDMI and the 3250 is connected to a Sony KV34HS420 via components. My question is, how should these 2 boxes be configured for picture mode (fixed, pass through, upconvert 1/2)?? I appreciate the help, just want to get these configured right.
Thanks

Is it possible to have the 8300 dump a recorded show via composite video/audio (or firewire for that matter) to a tape deck while watching something else, either recorded or live, on the other tuner at the same time? I don't think so, but maybe there's a method I haven't discovered.

Incompatibility with SA8300 component output and older Sony tv going thru; Audio authority 1554A switcher and kds component to rgb converter. I had a problem with component out put to an older sony projection TV The color was all messed up. (no it was not due to connecting the cables incorrectly) from the 8300. No problem with the SA 3250. I didn't see an answer searching here but I did find out the solution. The problem is dc voltage on the green component output. This would mess the picture up even if I bypassed the AA switcher and just went to the kds component to rgb converter. the solution is a $15.00 + shipping video dv blocker filter part 1181 from audio authority. I just got it today and it worked like a charm. Of course the cable company had never heard of this problem. Evidently SA is aware of this according to the tech. at Audio Authority. I know this won't affect many people but I was quite frustrated for a while (switched cable boxes without help). Now if I could just get the firewire to work on the 8300 like it does on the 3250. I have sara version 1.87.23.1 for the 8300 and using JVC 40000. The JVC will recognize the 8300 box and sometimes will run for for a few seconds before it locks up. I have no problems with the 3250. I do have the option of starting at the beginning of a recording which I thought was a part of the new software release which was to activate the firewire. Is the 1.87.23.1 the newest release? Right now I am keeping the 3250 for archiving to the dvhs and using the 8300 for timeshifting. Any suggestions I should give to the cable company that is looking into this problem?

Incompatibility with SA8300 component output and older Sony tv going thru; Audio authority 1554A switcher and kds component to rgb converter. I had a problem with component out put to an older sony projection TV The color was all messed up. (no it was not due to connecting the cables incorrectly) from the 8300. No problem with the SA 3250. I didn't see an answer searching here but I did find out the solution. The problem is dc voltage on the green component output. This would mess the picture up even if I bypassed the AA switcher and just went to the kds component to rgb converter. the solution is a $15.00 + shipping video dv blocker filter part 1181 from audio authority. I just got it today and it worked like a charm. Of course the cable company had never heard of this problem. Evidently SA is aware of this according to the tech. at Audio Authority. I know this won't affect many people but I was quite frustrated for a while (switched cable boxes without help). Now if I could just get the firewire to work on the 8300 like it does on the 3250. I have sara version 1.87.23.1 for the 8300 and using JVC 40000. The JVC will recognize the 8300 box and sometimes will run for for a few seconds before it locks up. I have no problems with the 3250. I do have the option of starting at the beginning of a recording which I thought was a part of the new software release which was to activate the firewire. Is the 1.87.23.1 the newest release? Right now I am keeping the 3250 for archiving to the dvhs and using the 8300 for timeshifting. Any suggestions I should give to the cable company that is looking into this problem?

Wow, this is a remarkably informative post, and I'm hoping that this is the problem I've run into with my DVR. I'll order this product and give it a shot ASAP. Yet another great example of what a valuable tool this forum is for laydoofuses like myself. Thanks, wookie.

I have the optical digital output from my 8300HD box going to my
Integra receiver. However, on my receiver I can't send digital audio
to my "Zone 2" speakers. So I tried hooking up the analog audio
outputs from the 8300HD to another input on the receiver (with the
digital hookup still active), but the analog outputs don't seem to
work. Does anyone know if this is possible? If so, is there any
trick to get it to work?

Your analog volume is controllable. Walk up to the STB and press and hold VOL+ until it's all the way up. If that works, go into settings and set your volume control to fixed for constant level output.

vegggas

I haven't seen this mentioned so I just want to put it out there for others to see. I upgraded from the Explorer 4200HD to the Explorer 8300HD PVR w/SARA. I noticed the signal output through component is markedly cleaner. Nearly free of mosquito noise and dark level crawl. I was impressed. Switching resolution is much faster as is channel changing with up/down button. Disappointingly though it takes longer for the numeric buttons to register. By the way the PVR operating tips were much appreciated...Thanks.

Kevin

The problem is dc voltage on the green component output. the solution is a $15.00 + shipping video dv blocker filter part 1181 from audio authority.

My 8300 suffers from this (or should I say my 6 year old (!) mits rptv does).

The bad news: AA is replacing the $15 1181 with a $36 1182. Available for pre-order.

The good news: I read how someone routed the component cables through a component switching receiver. My 5 year old receiver doesn't do component, but routing just the "green" through the composite video jacks works!

I'm wondering if anyone else has this problem (and even better if anyone knows a fix). I have a SA 8300HD hooked via HDMI cable to an LG plasma. My provider is Comcast (Prince William County, VA). The digital (SD and HD) channels work great - good picture and sound. However, on the analog channels (< 100) I get a picture with no sound. I borrowed the component cables from my DVD and the sound works fine on all channels. It appears that the NTSC tuners (I tried both of them) do not output the sound to the HDMI output. I called Comcast and after a lenthy delay (I assume to call SA) they came back to say that since the HDMI is a digital output it does not work with the analog stations. I might believe this if the picture didn't work either. The picture and the sound are both analog so why should one work and the other not?

My kids watch a lot of Disney, which is only available in analog, and they're not too happy that it doesn't have sound. I can go with component cables but I paid $$ for the HDMI cable and would prefer to have only 1 cable instead of 5.

I've played with the sound option in the settings. It works as described for the HDMI setting, and not at all for the Dolby or Other setting.

I have a Scientific Atlanta Explorer 8300 HD Digital Cable Box/DVR and a Sony KV-27FS100. I have optimized all the settings for the TV with Avia and gone into the service menu to fix all the other issues (red push, 16:9 oversqueeze, etc.) and am really happy with the picture quality, especially with anamorphic DVDs in 16:9 enhanced mode. I really want to be able to use the 16:9 enhanced mode with my digital cable movie channels because many times the movies are broadcast in widescreen format or OnDemand gives the option to view them in widescreen. I was wondering if anyone thinks this is possible and how I might go about doing it. I have already tried to do it once but the picture was really depressed vertically in comparison to when I use 16:9 enhanced with DVD's.

Sorry for the long post but I wanted to explain myself fully. Also, I just wanted to let everyone know how much I enjoy this site. Thanks in advance.

I have an 8300HD from Adelphia. I was wondering if it's possible to use the firewire connection to watch live TV on my Windows Media Center 2005 computer? I've searched through the different threads, and it only seems that people talk about recording rather than just watching it. Any help would be appreciated, thanks.

i asked TWCNYC why 5c was enabled on all channels on the 3250hd.

they said
--------
reference to your inquiry, your receiving device must be DTCP compliant.

If your device is DTCP compliant please contact our technical support department for further troubleshooting.
----------------
is this illegal?

i asked TWCNYC why 5c was enabled on all channels on the 3250hd.

they said
--------
reference to your inquiry, your receiving device must be DTCP compliant.

If your device is DTCP compliant please contact our technical support department for further troubleshooting.
----------------
is this illegal?

I'm using a SA3250HD with TimeWarner cable in Upstate, NY (Albany), and noticed via the Setting menu that the Firewire(1394) port is disabled. Does anyone know if this can be enabled with a friendly call to Customer Service, and if it's STB dependent?

redjr...

Following up on my previous post.... Is there anyone in this forum that lives in the Albany, NY area and using TWC's SA3250HD STB? Specifically, are you using the 2, 1394-Firewire ports on the STB? Are they active? I just learned, that, by law the cableco has to activate these ports at the user's request if using a rented STB. Anyone had the opportunity to ring up TWC and request that they activate the Firewire ports?

redjr...

They have to provide an STB with active firewire, that doesn't necessarily mean the 3250. You need to call them and find out which STB they use to support that requirement. Here in Phoenix it happens tobe the 3250, but AFAIK we have to call an get the software pushed if we need it, it is not pushed to everyone or every 3250.

If you want some solid resolution on inactive FireWire ports, file a complaint with the FCC. I will help you do it. I will be visiting Chairman Martin's office March 22 and will make sure his senior counsel sees it. I will also drop a copy off with Time-Warner when I visit them (date to be determined).

James Snider
1394 Trade Association

If you want some solid resolution on inactive FireWire ports, file a complaint with the FCC. I will help you do it. I will be visiting Chairman Martin's office March 22 and will make sure his senior counsel sees it. I will also drop a copy off with Time-Warner when I visit them (date to be determined).

James Snider
1394 Trade Association

James,

I certainly appreciate your effort to help, but I'm not at that point - yet. I haven't even spoken to my local TWC office in Albany yet regarding this topic. When I picked up my new SA3250HD STB last week, I didn't know enough to ask if the Firewire ports were active. It may be, once I contact them, they will supply me with another STB w/active 1394 ports without question, and this will be a moot point. So, at this point, I don't know what their (TWC) position is, and what they are willing to do to resolve this.

I will post my results with TWC in this thread.

Thanks,
redjr..

has anyone got this to work in TWCNYC / 3250HD?

I have an 8300HD from Adelphia. I was wondering if it's possible to use the firewire connection to watch live TV on my Windows Media Center 2005 computer? I've searched through the different threads, and it only seems that people talk about recording rather than just watching it. Any help would be appreciated, thanks.

Paulie,

You need the VLC Media Player for watching via firewire. I have not tested it since my port(s) are not active. Point your browser to;

www.videolan.org

redjr...

Hi , trying to find the answer to this question, can sa 8300 hd output hdmi and component at the same time???
Thanks
thequietman

See the replies you got in the other thread you cross-posted your question in. :)

Has anyone set up two 8300HD PVRs in the same room and changed the i/r remote frequency for one of them? According to this link (http://www.scientificatlanta.com/ExplorerClubGuides/getting_started/736121.pdf) if you plug in the IR Extender Blue, you can use the "Aux" button on the remote to control 1 of the boxes. Trouble is, nobody sells this device! Sci Atl reps have never heard of it (even though it's on their website) and their outsourced sales co. does not carry it (for "licensing" reasons :confused: ) They only have the standard IR extender.

Does anyone know a workaround, or know where to find this elusive device?

location: Cablevision/Central NJ

This thread is mainly for links to the other 8300 threads, so I don't know how many folks read it regularly or at all. Just don't be surprised if you don't get an answer. :)

FWIW, I don't think I've ever seen a post by someone with 2 8300s in the same room, though there have been some with 2 SA HD tuners (1 8300 and 1 3250) in the same room. I believe the power is a toggle and I think they set one on and the other off. Then, to switch from one unit to the other, they simply toggle the power on the remote. The 8300 does not need to be on for scheduled recordings to record.

Thanks DoubleDAZ, I'll post a new thread.

Did you try to power toggle? Or don't you have 2 units yet?

Only 1 unit at the moment. The idea was to hook up the SD outputs to a 2 channel modulator to watch in the rest of the house, but HD connect in 1 room. So both units would need to be on and respond to different remote codes (like the way TiVos are addressable)

You do know that the HD and SD outputs are all active at the same time? If the idea is to have the same channel on throughout the house so you can move around and not miss anything, you don't need 2 units to do that. If you wantmultiple channels though, you may end up having to wait for the SA8300HD MR (multi-room) to be released.

Yeah, the idea is to have 2 modulated channels throughout the house that anyone can sit down and watch 1 of the two PVRs. The IR Extender Blue seemed to be the perfect answer, but of course it doesn't actually exist :mad:

Well, I think you might be out of luck unless someone pops in with some other alternatives.

Well, I think you might be out of luck unless someone pops in with some other alternatives.
Why not simply put a second box where you want to watch another channel? My cable system offers HD and non-HD boxes. And wouldn't you want to be able to set/change the channel in the room where it is being watched instead of having to go to the room where you're proposing to have TWO boxes?

I thought of that too, but I assume he wants central control and doesn't want boxes in each room or the added cost.

I thought of that too, but I assume he wants central control and doesn't want boxes in each room or the added cost.
Perhaps, but I'm not seeing the advantage of "central control." Programming isn't "pushed," it's "pulled." There's alway multi-room remote systems though. And perhaps he's not got RG run to the other locations. But on the other hand, he's gotta run something . . .

Dave Lanton, check out the post before mine in this thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7294524#post7294524).

HEY!!!! Two quick questions regarding SA8300..


1. Can software like Passport be uploaded/installed by user?
2. Is there any way I can program the 8300 via intranet/internet/USB/etc.?

thanks....s

1. No, except for reloading the current software/firmware during a hard reboot.
2. No.

1. No, except for reloading the current software/firmware during a hard reboot.
2. No.


If I were to move from Canada to NY, and bring my 8300HD with me (I own it) could my cable company configure my box? - Flash my firmware, and load the other OS if they use, and sell the same identical box? Hypothetically wouldn't that be possible?

They could and it is certainly possible, but chances are very slim that they would.

If I were to move from Canada to NY, and bring my 8300HD with me (I own it) could my cable company configure my box? - Flash my firmware, and load the other OS if they use, and sell the same identical box? Hypothetically wouldn't that be possible?
Chances are better that Canada would vote to become the 51st state of the U.S. :)

I have TWC SA 8000HD and I want to take what i have recorded and burn to a DVD. It has an option to archive to VCR, which enables the S-Video output on the DVR -- I have tested this and it does work. What I am trying to figure out, is the best way to burn my shows/movies to a DVD and edit out any commercials -- I may have to buy a new one, but I want to be able to take these DVD's and play on my portible DVD player when I am traveling.

Currently, I dont have a DVD recorder, but I do have a DVD burner on my computer w/ a 250gig HD. Am i better off to buy a DVD recorder and then do any editing on my computer, or can i buy something to hook the DVR straight to my computer? I have never burned a DVD for anything except to backup data on my computer, so I really dont have any idea what I am getting myself into.

I have done searches on this topic, but cant seem to find exactly the information I am looking for.

I have seen DVD recorders w/ HDD, but that seems like I am buying something I already have (computer).

Thanks in advance for all your help.

I have TWC SA 8000HD and I want to take what i have recorded and burn to a DVD. It has an option to archive to VCR, which enables the S-Video output on the DVR -- I have tested this and it does work. What I am trying to figure out, is the best way to burn my shows/movies to a DVD and edit out any commercials -- I may have to buy a new one, but I want to be able to take these DVD's and play on my portible DVD player when I am traveling.

Currently, I dont have a DVD recorder, but I do have a DVD burner on my computer w/ a 250gig HD. Am i better off to buy a DVD recorder and then do any editing on my computer, or can i buy something to hook the DVR straight to my computer? I have never burned a DVD for anything except to backup data on my computer, so I really dont have any idea what I am getting myself into.

I have done searches on this topic, but cant seem to find exactly the information I am looking for.

I have seen DVD recorders w/ HDD, but that seems like I am buying something I already have (computer).

Thanks in advance for all your help.
Capture the s-video to your computer's hard drive and edit on the computer before burning to DVD. You'll need a video capture card; some video cards have this functionality.

Capture the s-video to your computer's hard drive and edit on the computer before burning to DVD. You'll need a video capture card; some video cards have this functionality.

Is there a video capture card you recommend, and do they come w/ software to do what I am trying to accomplish?

Is there a video capture card you recommend, and do they come w/ software to do what I am trying to accomplish?
What video card are you using?

I have a NVDIA 6800

OK you TWC/Passport 8300 DVR owners, here goes:
Recently started experiencing problems with box. First noticed the following anomaly: The "Audio Digital Out" selection in the "More Settings" menu layer disappeared. Called TWC and they put it back in. All was OK, until the following appeared a couple of days ago:

After turning set off for more than 5 minutes or so, and then turning back on, the following occurs: the video image has a "green cast" and the only way to get rid of it, is to deselect all of the "output resolution" settings, change channels and let the set resync to the box !

I believe this has to do with TWC recently uploading a new version of the Passport/ECHO software. Current version showing is 2.5.051.

This is really annoying and only happens when trying to use the HDMI output of the box. For reference I have a JVC DILA set, Model No. HD-61Z575. Never had any problems like this before and it does not occur when using component output of the box. My suspicion is that it has to do with a fault in the lastest Passport firmware "upgrade". Really wish these guys would leave things alone......don't do us any more favors !

Any one else notice this ? Thanks for replies in advance.

I have a different problem since the software update, Kennemax1.
I'm in upstate NY, by the way. I have two 8300HD DVRs.
Since the software update last Tuesday my boxes crash when turned on after being off for an hour or more.
I turn them on change the channel and they lock up. I have to pull the power cord to get them to reboot.
I called TWC and was told by a manager to exchange both 8300s for new ones and that would correct the problem.
I did so Friday and the problem remains. Turn the boxes on after being off for some time and they immediately crash.
I agree with you, don't do us any favors.

After turning set off for more than 5 minutes or so, and then turning back on, the following occurs: the video image has a "green cast"

I've had the green cast on occasion (sometimes when 1st turning everything on). Usually turning the box off and back on again resolves the problem. Occasionally I have to turn both the box and the tv off and back on again.

I've NEVER had to mess with the settings to get the normal picture back.

The other day I called my cable company (Cox) to order another SA8300HD, for the bedroom. I already have one in the living room. I was told it won't work, that you can only have one per household. Is this true?

The other day I called my cable company (Cox) to order another SA8300HD, for the bedroom. I already have one in the living room. I was told it won't work, that you can only have one per household. Is this true?
I am in Houston TX with Time Warner Cable and I have three SA8300HD set top boxes with no problems. I know there are a lot of people with more than one SA8300HD set top box. I doubt the statement "it won't work" is true unless your Cox division does something really strange to prevent it. Cox may have a policy that limits people to only one per household. I would try calling them again and talk to someone else. Good Luck! Please post what you find out.

The other day I called my cable company (Cox) to order another SA8300HD, for the bedroom. I already have one in the living room. I was told it won't work, that you can only have one per household. Is this true?
It's not that it won't work, but they probably have a policy in place allowing only one unit per household, most likely due to a shortage of SA HD DVR's.

It's not that it won't work, but they probably have a policy in place allowing only one unit per household, most likely due to a shortage of SA HD DVR's.
My cable company tried to lay that on me, too: We're running out, you can only have one. I LOL in the guy's ear and asked "WTF's the difference whether I lease one from them while my neighbor leases one, or I lease two? Buy more." (I have 2 x HD-DVR and 1 x SD-DVR.)

Wondering if anyone else has noticed recent degradation. I've got 3 SA8300HDs. One is connected to an HD display via component, the other 2 to non-HD sets. Apart from the existing issues with the units (ie, non-existent search, etc), I'm now starting to see frequent problems - most pronounced when dealing with HD content.

1) I'm now having issues where I record something, but it will not play. Attempting to play just throws me back out to the "Playback Menu" where it prompts me to press the green list button. This has happened about 6 times in the past 4 weeks now.

2) Programming function clearly buggy. Recurring programs set to record any day any time for a title sometimes just don't record. Example, "The Unit" last night. Though set to "any day, any time this channel" it did not record the 9-10pm airing, but did record the 10-11pm airing.

3) Cannot edit end time on existing recurring scheduled recordings.

4) Sometimes the scheduled recording just ends early. Like 20 minutes or so early. Not out of space, either.

5) Sometimes records items we've never set to record. For example, have an existing scheduled recurring recording for a program that runs normally 8-9pm Sundays. Set to recur, any time any day that channel. That particular program doesn't air that week. The DVR records whatever else happens to air then. It is NOT a manual recording. This happens somewhat frequently.

6) Lots of pixelation and audio dropouts. Sometimes if you pause a recording during playback, rewind a few seconds and replay, the audio dropout isn't there - as well as sometimes the pixelation. To me this seems to point to a buffering issue that the DVR cannot keep up with the stream.

This has happened on 2 consecutive DVRs. Now using SW version 1.88.19.1 (got an early push from Adelphia trying to troubleshoot this - it hasn't been deployed in my area yet other than to me). SA is also involved. I'm pretty ticked off, as some of these problems have existed for a while - but they've gotten dramatically worse lately. These really are pretty crappy devices.

I'm trying to figure out if I can connect a Slingbox to the SA8300HD via S-Video and RCA audio, and then get downconverted HD content through it.

In other words, if I record HD content, during playback I'm assuming that SARA based SA8300HD units sent output through all output ports simultaneously. Does it also automatically downgrade the HD content to SD via the S-Video port?

I'm trying to figure out if I can connect a Slingbox to the SA8300HD via S-Video and RCA audio, and then get downconverted HD content through it.

In other words, if I record HD content, during playback I'm assuming that SARA based SA8300HD units sent output through all output ports simultaneously. Does it also automatically downgrade the HD content to SD via the S-Video port?
S-video is by definition SD at, I believe 640 x 480i. I don't have SARA, so I can't address the "simultaneous" issue. Some Passport versions do not.

Actually, S-Video is at 480i or 576i resolution - and is an analog - not digital - signal. It has two ground connections, one intensity and one color connection (of the 4 total standard s-video connections on an S-Video port). S-Video can be better than composite because of increased bandwidth and low cross-talk - primarily because color and intensity are separated removing the requirement for low pass filtering.

I appreciate the response, however. As you note, what I'm really trying to determine is what the specific SA8300HD will do. I've heard both sides, that it will simultaneously send output to all ports, and that it will not. I'm also interested to find out if the DVR will actually send downgraded but viewable output from HD content out the S-Video connector. I'm afraid it might just disable the port. You never know.

S-video is by definition SD at, I believe 640 x 480i. I don't have SARA, so I can't address the "simultaneous" issue. Some Passport versions do not.

what I'm really trying to determine is what the specific SA8300HD will do. I've heard both sides, that it will simultaneously send output to all ports, and that it will not. I'm also interested to find out if the DVR will actually send downgraded but viewable output from HD content out the S-Video connector. I'm afraid it might just disable the port. You never know.
You will not know until you have the box. And then even if it works, that doesn't mean that a future rev won't disable simultaneous output. It's a box of chocolates. :)

edit: But I seem to remember the boxes that did NOT output at all outputs - HDMI & component - still did at s-video regardless . . .

As I mentioned in an earlier thread, I've got 3 of these (buggy and PITA) boxes (that I hope to replace with something better at my earliest opportunity).

Unfortunately, they are my only method to get HD locals at the moment. So, when either the TiVo Series 3 comes out, or when Dish gets HD locals in my area, it's bye-bye 8300.

What I DON'T have yet is the Slingbox. I'm investigating prior to buying. One of the major reasons I want it is so that I can remotely see and edit my scheduled recordings, since the darn 8300 is so friggin unreliable in that regard.

You will not know until you have the box. And then even if it works, that doesn't mean that a future rev won't disable simultaneous output. It's a box of chocolates. :)

edit: But I seem to remember the boxes that did NOT output at all outputs - HDMI & component - still did at s-video regardless . . .

Actually, S-Video is at 480i or 576i resolution - and is an analog - not digital - signal. It has two ground connections, one intensity and one color connection (of the 4 total standard s-video connections on an S-Video port). S-Video can be better than composite because of increased bandwidth and low cross-talk - primarily because color and intensity are separated removing the requirement for low pass filtering.

I appreciate the response, however. As you note, what I'm really trying to determine is what the specific SA8300HD will do. I've heard both sides, that it will simultaneously send output to all ports, and that it will not. I'm also interested to find out if the DVR will actually send downgraded but viewable output from HD content out the S-Video connector. I'm afraid it might just disable the port. You never know.

My SA8300HD (Time Warner/ Passport v.48) outputs Svideo of very good quality and stereo sound from both SD and HD source content. Passport does not have the dedicated "Copy" function that the SA OS has, so I have to play the program. I believe the svideo output is always live, even with HDMI/1080i output, I think.
I'm using the component video outputs for my TV, with the 8300 set to 720p output. 16:9 HD content is formatted as 4:3 with top/bottom letterboxing; SD 4:3 is output as full screen 4:3.
I use it with an MPEG2 capture box to archive and make DVDs. The Svideo output is probably as good as svideo gets, which is certainly not close to HD, but not all that bad and quite appropriate for computer playback or making DVDs.

As I mentioned in an earlier thread, I've got 3 of these (buggy and PITA) boxes (that I hope to replace with something better at my earliest opportunity).

Unfortunately, they are my only method to get HD locals at the moment. So, when either the TiVo Series 3 comes out, or when Dish gets HD locals in my area, it's bye-bye 8300.

What I DON'T have yet is the Slingbox. I'm investigating prior to buying. One of the major reasons I want it is so that I can remotely see and edit my scheduled recordings, since the darn 8300 is so friggin unreliable in that regard.
Understood. I hate to mention it as I do not want to interrupt your rage :), but I've had two 8300HDs and one 8300 for two years and they have been completely trouble free. When they work, which for most people is most of the time, they are a fine piece of gear.

Your mileage obviously varies . . .

I hear you, and it's not rage, really. It is certainly frustration. I've had 3 SA8300HDs for going on 2 yrs myself. The problems I've had have been validated and replicated by Adelphia (and now SA). The very poor user interface is of course common to all of us. Prior to these things, I had Dishnet 501s, 508s, 510s and 921s. The 5xx series was a far better device, though only one tuner and no HD. The 921 was far better designed, with far more features, but had some reliability issues. It went by the wayside only because Dish couldn't provide HD locals, and I tired of waiting for them. OTA is not a possibility for me. Comparing the interface of the Dish PVRs to the SA units is like comparing a Mercedes to a Yugo.

Understood. I hate to mention it as I do not want to interrupt your rage :), but I've had two 8300HDs and one 8300 for two years and they have been completely trouble free. When they work, which for most people is most of the time, they are a fine piece of gear.

Your mileage obviously varies . . .

cross posting this because not sure if this is a comcast PVR SA8000 problem or Syntax Olevia problem.

Power outage, now TV shows black and white only
i have a syntax olevia 37HVX and a Comcast SA 8000HD. When I first purchased the TV I could not get it to show in color. Then I found out about pressing some buttons together on the SA 8000HD to get the color to show up on the olevia. I have tried the GUIDE + INFO buttons to do the resolution but that has not fixed it. Does anybody know the other button fixes to get color back on the TV?

Comcast is clueless, I already called and I have not been able to find anything via search and google. HELP!

Could you be remembering?
Forced Reboot (without unplugging unit). On the front of the box, press and hold both the VOL+ and VOL- buttons, then press the INFO button.

Could you be remembering?

I remember it is something to do with the mailbox light coming on and then some code shows up where the clock shows and then I click on either a volume or channel button. does that sound like something? i don't think it was the boot because on the screen, I would see it turn to color once I pushed one of the SA 8000HD buttons. I thought it was the resolution screen that did it but it is not this time. Ughgg!

Diagnostic Mode. There are two ways to enter the Diagnostic Mode:
Press and hold the Select button on the front of the unit until the Mail light starts to flash, then press the INFO button.

Press and hold the Pause button on the remote until the Mail light starts to flash (around 10-15 seconds), then press the Page Up (-) button. On some remotes, the Page (+) button might need to be used instead.This sounds like what you are thinking of, but you cannot change anything in this area, so I doubt it's what you are looking for. You might look at one or both of these threads though:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?s=&threadid=421666
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=471859

I don't know if this has been discussed or not, but my SA 8300 has a problem with recording on to my DVD player. The problem is that frequently, not all the time I will attempt to move a recording on to DVD and for some reason the sound will change to whatever I am watching. The picture will be fine.

Very irritating and hard to catch.

This seems like a software issue to me, but I turned my unit in for a different one.

Anyone else experience this?

I am wondering, is there a way to hook up your 8300HD to the computer so you can use your mouse and keyboard to control channels and recording and things like that..

I don't really like remotes, and especially the one that came with it. I find my mouse much easier, and it would be great if I can have the tv in a litle media window I can resize and move around with my mouse as I do other things.

Is there a way? Will firewire connection allow this? or only for copying recordings?

IIRC, [Someone] (maybe on the Yahoo group/s) plugged a spare USB keyboard into the front of an 8000HD and was able to change channels -- I do not think that is what you were looking for...

On the other topic, the only way I can think of is piping the signal into the monitor's PIP or a tuner in the computer, unless you have a MAC (who have had better success with Firewire).

Better topical info in the software and firewire threads...

v/r,
C-F

I believe this has to do with TWC recently uploading a new version of the Passport/ECHO software. Current version showing is 2.5.051.

Any one else notice this ? Thanks for replies in advance.

I noticed problems too (TWC/8300)! All of sudden one day I started to have HDCP problems that I never had before, I knew they had to have changed something and you just confirmed it. To fix it I have to hold down the power button so that the box reboots. Also the box only outputs 1080i now, if you set it to other resolutions it does not save. POS! Anyone know if TWC plans to fix this?

I've started to have two issues as well:

1) Recorded programs are being broken up into chunks. So a one hour recording of House will end up being a 6 minute record, 35 minute recording, and a 19 minute recording; yet it doesn't happen all the time.

2) When I turn on the box sometimes the Recorded Programs List wont' come up, it'll flash on the screen momentarily then go back to whatever I was watching, it takes a hard reset for the list to appear again.

Very odd

- D

Not at home but I am looking at the thread about my 8300 HD Dvr. I don't think my box has the latest software. Does anyone know what version charter is pushing in the birmingham area. My FF only has 3 clicks not 4 so I don't think I ahve the latest stuff.

Does anyone have the SA-8300 HD-DVR? I'm watching college football from gameplan and if i try to replay or rewind it says "You must record this PPV show to rewind" anyone else see anything like this on any channel? I just argued with the tech guy and tried to tell me it was a problem with my box, but it's obviously another "feature" of whatever the latest software update was, I used to be able to rewind gameplan games as i watched them, and the fact that i CAN record the game and rewind makes it very frustrating when i'm trying to flip around to five different games using two tuners, the clown said he could credit me for the DVR service, so i'll call back later and argue with a different CSR

Is there a consensus as to whether or not to power off the SA8300 HD Explorer? I had DTV satellite service with the HR10-250 box and there was no power button on the unit - it was always on and the hard drive wasn't affected. Can the SA8300 be left on as well?

Is there a consensus as to whether or not to power off the SA8300 HD Explorer? I had DTV satellite service with the HR10-250 box and there was no power button on the unit - it was always on and the hard drive wasn't affected. Can the SA8300 be left on as well?
I think most users turn them off, which is different from powering down (removing AC). If you're on Passport, you may have a General Setting called Power Manager which allows spinning down the internal drive when not being used.

Pepar you are correct, I meant to say "turning the unit". If the HD is not spinning is there any harm in leaving the unit on?

Pepar you are correct, I meant to say "turning the unit". If the HD is not spinning is there any harm in leaving the unit on?
Leave it plugged in, but turned off. More heat is generated in the completely on state than in the off, but powered one. Just my $.02.

I just got my HDTV and connected to the HDTV DVR cable box (Scientific American) via HDMI cable.
2 questions:
-With my old TV (connected with regular cables) the remote worked for everything. With the new set the volume bar shows up on the bottom of the screen but has no effect on the actual volume. The volume has to be controlled with the TV remote. I assume this is due to the HDMI connection because that is the only thing that is different. How can I fix this so that I can adjust the volume using the Cable remote?

-With the old tube TV I plugged the tv into the cable box so that with the cable remote I could turn the TV on and off. The new TV has a three prong plug and the cable box only accepts a 2 prong.
-Can I just use a 3 prong adapter or is it not recommened to plug the TV into the cable box? (Samsung HL-S6187)
Thanks!

I just got my HDTV and connected to the HDTV DVR cable box (Scientific American) via HDMI cable.
2 questions:
-With my old TV (connected with regular cables) the remote worked for everything. With the new set the volume bar shows up on the bottom of the screen but has no effect on the actual volume. The volume has to be controlled with the TV remote. I assume this is due to the HDMI connection because that is the only thing that is different. How can I fix this so that I can adjust the volume using the Cable remote?
Isn't there a setting (in the STB) for variable/fixed output volume. If not, try entering your TV's mfg code into the 8300HD's remote so you can control TV volume.

-With the old tube TV I plugged the tv into the cable box so that with the cable remote I could turn the TV on and off. The new TV has a three prong plug and the cable box only accepts a 2 prong.
-Can I just use a 3 prong adapter or is it not recommened to plug the TV into the cable box? (Samsung HL-S6187)
Thanks!
This is easy: Never plug a three-pronged device into a two-pronged adapter. The third prong is for grounding (and safetly) purposes. FWIW, I never plug anything into the rear AC outlet on my 8300HDs.

[QUOTE=pepar]Isn't there a setting (in the STB) for variable/fixed output volume. If not, try entering your TV's mfg code into the 8300HD's remote so you can control TV volume.QUOTE]

It is set on variable. But just understand: The volume control bar moves on the bottom of the screen as it did with the old set, but the volume doesn't change. It must have something to do with the HDMI connection vs. the regular cables.
Could it be that I need an HDMI/DVI cable instead of the regular HDMI?

[QUOTE=pepar]Isn't there a setting (in the STB) for variable/fixed output volume. If not, try entering your TV's mfg code into the 8300HD's remote so you can control TV volume.QUOTE]

It is set on variable. But just understand: The volume control bar moves on the bottom of the screen as it did with the old set, but the volume doesn't change. It must have something to do with the HDMI connection vs. the regular cables.
Could it be that I need an HDMI/DVI cable instead of the regular HDMI?
I'm not an HDMI expert by far, but if you're getting audio at all through the HDMI cable, then the problem is not in the cable. Something about your TV, maybe. And then again, I'm not that familiar with HDMI. Sorry.

If you cannot find the answer, why don't you look into having your 8300HD remote control the TV volume?

I just got my HDTV and connected to the HDTV DVR cable box (Scientific American) via HDMI cable.
2 questions:
-With my old TV (connected with regular cables) the remote worked for everything. With the new set the volume bar shows up on the bottom of the screen but has no effect on the actual volume. The volume has to be controlled with the TV remote. I assume this is due to the HDMI connection because that is the only thing that is different. How can I fix this so that I can adjust the volume using the Cable remote?

-With the old tube TV I plugged the tv into the cable box so that with the cable remote I could turn the TV on and off. The new TV has a three prong plug and the cable box only accepts a 2 prong.
-Can I just use a 3 prong adapter or is it not recommened to plug the TV into the cable box? (Samsung HL-S6187)
Thanks!
I suspect that your issue is that the TV is receiving a digital audio signal from the SA8300HD and the volume control function of the 8300 only works on the analog out. I'm probably not familiar with YOUR 8300's remote, but I thought that most of them could be set-up to control the TV volume.

RE: Power connection. It is probably not a good idea to plug the power cord from the TV into the 8300. Besides the grounding issue, you probably don't want to completely cut the power to the TV. Particularly important is not cutting power to the set just after the lamp is shut off - you want the internal fan to cool down the bulb. That won't happen if the power to the set is suddenly shut off.

Hi, recently upgraded from the explorere SA 4200HD cablebox to the SA 8300HD DVR.
I noticed that the picture quality of the Hi Def channels on SA 8300HD DVR is not as clear as that of the SA4200HD. I've used the same exact compononent cables for both boxes along with my Sony Bravia HD LCD. Do HD DVR's inherently have a lower picture quality than standard HD box? or is the the SA 8300HD DVR defective?

Hi, recently upgraded from the explorere SA 4200HD cablebox to the SA 8300HD DVR.
I noticed that the picture quality of the Hi Def channels on SA 8300HD DVR is not as clear as that of the SA4200HD. I've used the same exact compononent cables for both boxes along with my Sony Bravia HD LCD. Do HD DVR's inherently have a lower picture quality than standard HD box? or is the the SA 8300HD DVR defective?

I have nothing to compare it to but I use HDMI and the PQ is outstanding.

I just got my HDTV and connected to the HDTV DVR cable box (Scientific American) via HDMI cable.
2 questions:
-With my old TV (connected with regular cables) the remote worked for everything. With the new set the volume bar shows up on the bottom of the screen but has no effect on the actual volume. The volume has to be controlled with the TV remote. I assume this is due to the HDMI connection because that is the only thing that is different. How can I fix this so that I can adjust the volume using the Cable remote?

-With the old tube TV I plugged the tv into the cable box so that with the cable remote I could turn the TV on and off. The new TV has a three prong plug and the cable box only accepts a 2 prong.
-Can I just use a 3 prong adapter or is it not recommened to plug the TV into the cable box? (Samsung HL-S6187)
Thanks!

On the remote that came with my 8300HD, I programmed my TV brand on the remote which lets me power on/off the TV via the same DVR remote. It also controls TV volume.

One very neat feature of the remote I was provided, is that you can set it to turn on/off multiple devices "at the same time", so I have both the TV and DVR plugged into a power strip. Hitting the power button on the DVR remote, powers off or on, *both* devices with just one button press. Pretty neat.

BTW, I'm also thinking (unconfirmed at the moment), that the "variable" volume setting on the DVR box, does not apply when it's connected via HDMI.

See if you can find the programming guide for your remote.

Is it possible to set the audio output on the SA 8300 to optical without having it be on standby all the time? Other than by unplugging it?

BTW, I'm also thinking (unconfirmed at the moment), that the "variable" volume setting on the DVR box, does not apply when it's connected via HDMI.Partially correct. The fixed/variable DVR setting only applies to the analog audio outs (Composite, L-R Audio). It is the same if Component is being used instead of HDMI.

Suggestion to find the remote manual is correct. If it's an SA remote, there should be instructions on how to define which device controls volume, in this case the TV, not the 8300.

Is it possible to set the audio output on the SA 8300 to optical without having it be on standby all the time? Other than by unplugging it?Not sure what you are asking here.

What I have done is set the TV button on the cable remote for the TV. I turn on the cable box with the remote on cable then hit the tv buton to turn on the tv and adjust the volume. I need to switch back to the cable mode to change the channel. Not as convenient as before when I could turn the tv on and off, adjust the volume, and change channels all in the same mode but it works. (HDMI connection.)
(I was told NOT to plug my new TV, a Samsung HLS 6187, into the cable box the way I did with my tube set so that the cable box turned the set on and off.. I'm not sure why but I have lost that convenience as well.)
All in all not a huge deal but indeed less convenient.

Not sure what you are asking here.

The SA 8000HD sends out an optical signal even when it is turned off. This interferes with the automatic switch on my system selector, and I would like to know if there is any way to disable the optical signal when the cable box is not in use (other than unplugging it).

What I have done is set the TV button on the cable remote for the TV. I turn on the cable box with the remote on cable then hit the tv buton to turn on the tv and adjust the volume. I need to switch back to the cable mode to change the channel. Not as convenient as before when I could turn the tv on and off, adjust the volume, and change channels all in the same mode but it works. (HDMI connection.)
(I was told NOT to plug my new TV, a Samsung HLS 6187, into the cable box the way I did with my tube set so that the cable box turned the set on and off.. I'm not sure why but I have lost that convenience as well.)
All in all not a huge deal but indeed less convenient.
There are ways of programming a volume "punch through" so that the volume will control a single specific device in all modes. Programming will depend on your specific remote and instructions, etc. You can also set it so that you can have multiple devices (macro) turn on with one power button press.
DO NOT EVER PLUG YOUR MODERN TV INTO THE AC OUTLET OF THE STB !!! This is a switched outlet that is effectively the same thing as ripping the power cable out of the wall while the set is on or having a neighborhood power outage. It's VERY stressfull on modern TV's and should only be used for older TV's that do not have any memory settings - i.e. analog only knob style TV's.

vegggas

The SA 8000HD sends out an optical signal even when it is turned off. This interferes with the automatic switch on my system selector, and I would like to know if there is any way to disable the optical signal when the cable box is not in use (other than unplugging it).
The optical out carrier is always lit when the box is powered, there is just no audio data. That's the nature of the optical output - The end device controls the signal. Use coaxial digital out for switched digital audio.

vegggas

My problem is that both the cable box and my dvd player send out an optical signal at all times and my system selector can't handle it. I would switch to coaxial, but I use a surround sound wireless headphone system that only has an optical input, no coax.

My problem is that both the cable box and my dvd player send out an optical signal at all times and my system selector can't handle it. I would switch to coaxial, but I use a surround sound wireless headphone system that only has an optical input, no coax.
The headphone system is attached to your AVR/pre-pro?

From the switch I split the signal to 1) the receiver and 2) the headphones. I have to do it this way because my receiver does not have an optical out.

From the switch I split the signal to 1) the receiver and 2) the headphones. I have to do it this way because my receiver does not have an optical out.
Drive the receiver with the coaxial output and the headphones with the optical output?

The problem is that both the DVD player and the cable box both send an optical signal at all times and this interferes with the operation of the switch, before it gets to either the receiver or the headphones.

I would still have to send optical signals through the switch to get to the headphones.

I would still have to send optical signals through the switch to get to the headphones.
More than one optical source?

edit: Not to load you up on gear, but have you considered optical and coaxial switching? All of your sources would need both outputs, but if they did you could use one circuit for the headphones and the other for the main system.

The problem is that both the DVD player and the cable box both send an optical signal at all times and this interferes with the operation of the switch, before it gets to either the receiver or the headphones.
Does This (http://www.mcminone.com/product.asp?catalog%5Fname=MCMProducts&product%5Fid=24%2D6580) work for you?

More than one optical source?

edit: Not to load you up on gear, but have you considered optical and coaxial switching? All of your sources would need both outputs, but if they did you could use one circuit for the headphones and the other for the main system.This is the switch I am using:

http://www.ramelectronics.net/html/1154A.html

As you can see, it can handle optical and coaxial. In theory, I could pass coaxial from each device through the switch, and then to my receiver. I could also pass optical from each device through the switch, and then to my headphones.

But this doesn’t solve the problem, which is that the receiver cannot handle having two optical signals passed through it at all times. It can only prioritize a single always-on optical signal. For example, I can plug my cable box into optical slot #4 and then override that signal when I turn on a game console plugged in to a lower number.

However, if I plug my also always-on DVD player and the cable box in at the same time, the switch will prioritize for whichever one is in the lower # slot. One solution is to use the switch manually, but I would have to use the switch manually every time I wanted to switch anything, not just those two always-on devices.

Does This (http://www.mcminone.com/product.asp?catalog%5Fname=MCMProducts&product%5Fid=24%2D6580) work for you?This would work if I placed it before the main switch in the chain, and it’s a little better than having to unplug one of the always-on devices when not in use. Not to sound lazy, cheap, or unappreciative, but I would like to get this system to work 100% automatically as is before I spend $$$ on an extra device and cables.

There are ways of programming a volume "punch through" so that the volume will control a single specific device in all modes. Programming will depend on your specific remote and instructions, etc. You can also set it so that you can have multiple devices (macro) turn on with one power button press.vegggas

How do you do this and how does it work when your done?

There are ways of programming a volume "punch through" so that the volume will control a single specific device in all modes. Programming will depend on your specific remote and instructions, etc. You can also set it so that you can have multiple devices (macro) turn on with one power button press.
DO NOT EVER PLUG YOUR MODERN TV INTO THE AC OUTLET OF THE STB !!! This is a switched outlet that is effectively the same thing as ripping the power cable out of the wall while the set is on or having a neighborhood power outage. It's VERY stressfull on modern TV's and should only be used for older TV's that do not have any memory settings - i.e. analog only knob style TV's.

vegggasThere is a "Set:A-C Outlet" general setting that allows the user to keep the outlet "Always On" on the SA 8300 HD, but there is still the problem of grounding since it only has room for 2 prongs.

Hi all... i ujust got the 8300HD a week ago, switched from DTV due to tree issues..any way, my box always displays channels in 480i when it's first turned on, regardless of whether its an SD or HD channel.. it's connected via HDMI cable.

I have tried setting the power on to an SD channel, and always turning on the TV first before the cable box (tv is Panny 42PX60U), etc. with no luck. Every time I turn it on I have to go through setup to get the SA to switch to 1080i correctly for HD channels. Once I do that, it's fine until I power off the TV or the STB.
No other components are connected to the SA box, other than audio out to my AVR.

Any ideas on how to fix this? I have searched the forums and tried what I found, but no luck. Not sure what software version I have as I am not home right now to check, but I am with Adelphia cable in CT.

Thanks

-G

Hi all... i ujust got the 8300HD a week ago, switched from DTV due to tree issues..any way, my box always displays channels in 480i when it's first turned on, regardless of whether its an SD or HD channel.. it's connected via HDMI cable.

I have tried setting the power on to an SD channel, and always turning on the TV first before the cable box (tv is Panny 42PX60U), etc. with no luck. Every time I turn it on I have to go through setup to get the SA to switch to 1080i correctly for HD channels. Once I do that, it's fine until I power off the TV or the STB.
No other components are connected to the SA box, other than audio out to my AVR.

Any ideas on how to fix this? I have searched the forums and tried what I found, but no luck. Not sure what software version I have as I am not home right now to check, but I am with Adelphia cable in CT.

Have you been to the General Settings page? There you can select which formats are outputted. By selecting all of them, the box will pas cjhannels as it receives them. Go to the first post in this thread, a common tactic, and follow some of the links to familiarize yourself with your equipment.

Also, "To get to the multi-page Diagnostics screen, simultaneously press and hold the front panel's SELECT and EXIT buttons till DIAG appears then release the buttons, then press EXIT and the the box tunes itself to the multi-page Diagnostics channel. To exit press Ch + or Ch -" Here, among many other things, you will be able to determine which software, SARA or Passport, your 8300HD is running. This information is needed for many of the things you could need assistance with. I suggest that when you've determined which software that you subscribe to that software's particular thread.

Thanks.. Yes I have tried both the advanced and easy setup, and have the picture setting to DVI/HDMI in general. In advanced settings I tried just about all imaginable combinations, including enabling only 1080i, with no success.
I will check the software version later on today and see if I can find anything there.

Once you have the SA 8300 HD box set up the way you want it, reboot it. The SA 8300 HD box should retain the new settings. I know this works with SARA, but I am not sure if this works with Passport.

Thanks.. Yes I have tried both the advanced and easy setup, and have the picture setting to DVI/HDMI in general. In advanced settings I tried just about all imaginable combinations, including enabling only 1080i, with no success.
I will check the software version later on today and see if I can find anything there.
It should keep whatever settings that you make. Have you called your cable provider?

It does retain the settings I make, but for whatever reason always sticks on 480i at power on. If I go back into the advanced settings, the selections I previously made are still in tact. Normally I don't need to make any changes, just re-save it and it works correctly again, until I turn the tv or stb off.

I will try and do the reboot after setting it up again, and if that doesn't work I will call them cable co. and see if they can swap out the box or if they have heard of this problem before. Thanks

-G

It does retain the settings I make, but for whatever reason always sticks on 480i at power on. If I go back into the advanced settings, the selections I previously made are still in tact. Normally I don't need to make any changes, just re-save it and it works correctly again, until I turn the tv or stb off.

I will try and do the reboot after setting it up again, and if that doesn't work I will call them cable co. and see if they can swap out the box or if they have heard of this problem before. Thanks

-GThis sounds like a known bug in SARA 1.88.x.x.

Bugs Remaining In 1.88.x.x (Not all-inclusive)

Turns On In 480i Mode - If the General Settings/Viewer: Power On is set to an HD channel or Last Channel (if that was HD), the unit will be in 480i mode when you turn it on. If you then tune to an SD channel and back, it will change to the correct HD mode. However, this can be minimized by setting the Power On option to an SD channel. It will then power up in the correct mode and change to HD when you tune to an HD channel. Another workaround is too simply cycle through the zoom modes using the # button. (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=4682052&&#post4682052)

have a quick question, all along my sa 8300hd via hdmi to my sharp lc-32ga5u worked fine. Recently I get a message stating my tv does not support hdcp please connect via component. I have to unplug my receiver and reboot it for it to work again and I wont get that message for weeks. I haven't really checked on here too much to see if its a known problem (which im guessing it is), just wanted to see if it actually is a known problem or if my receiver is starting to go. Oh I'm using it w/ TWC in NYC. thanks!

have a quick question, all along my sa 8300hd via hdmi to my sharp lc-32ga5u worked fine. Recently I get a message stating my tv does not support hdcp please connect via component. I have to unplug my receiver and reboot it for it to work again and I wont get that message for weeks. I haven't really checked on here too much to see if its a known problem (which im guessing it is), just wanted to see if it actually is a known problem or if my receiver is starting to go. Oh I'm using it w/ TWC in NYC. thanks!

I had problems with the HDMI connection often enough that I switched my connection to component and left it there.

Most of my problems were either losing the sound or losing the picture, but many other people have experienced the exact same problem that you describe.

Unfortunately both my components are taken up and i dont have a home theater system at the moment. Hopefully there will be an update one of these days. I dont mind unplugging my receiver once and awhile, but after awhile im sure this will get old.

The only thing I can suggest is to hold the Power button while plugging in the power cord the next time you reboot. This may not help, but it's worth a shot.

Unfortunately, you are posting in the Master thread (which is designed to provide links to the other individual SA threads for more tailored responses) and you don't list your location, cableco, or version of software, so it's difficult to provide further suggestions.

Question for ya'll...

I recently installed a DirecTV HD reciever at my farm in SC. I live in Raleigh, NC and recieve local HD channels via TWC (SA8300).

In Green Sea, SC the local HD channels are not on DirecTV and thus I recieve them OTA. (the ones I can get) I do get SD locals via DTV Here comes the cool part....

The reciever for DTV scans the OTA HD and Annalog channels and then incorporates them into the on screen user interface. This gives us the pure HD OTA AND convience of having it integrated into the UI.

WHY CANT TWC (SA8300 running Passport) do this???? It really is a great feature.

I recently purchased a sony 40xbr2 and have the Scientific Atlanta 8300HD DVR with Time Warner Cable. I have a question about Dolby Digital 5.1 setup. Can I get sound from my tv and my 5.1 av receiver at the same time, or will this box not all that. I mean if I am watching a show, can I choose from either the tv or the receiver from where I want to hear my sound by just increasing or lowering the volume. Please advise will this work, is it my tv (at present time I cant get this to work) or is it the box.

If I am doing something wrong, can someone please assist me.

Hey guys,
so I just hooked my my sa8300 hddvr with an hdmi cable to my sammy lcd...
I'm getting a strange issue.
When I switch to an hd channel, I can see footprint type smudges on the screen...however when I change to a non hd channel they go away...

It's very noticable for example if i'm watching a hd channel and I put the channel guide on where the grey bars come up on the side of the screen they are full of smudge type marks, but when viewing a non hd-channel they immediately go away.

Any fixes or advice about this? I can't figure out what the problem could be. It never happened when I used the components but today I got an hdmi cable and this was the result...

thanks
Khurram

Also,
I can't seem to get to the setup menu that is mentioned in various threads.
When I hold down the info and guide button on the box nothing comes up.
No setup menu.

And I have the box off and the tv on.

I can't get the setup wizard to run either. Very frustrating. :mad:

If you newbies would put a location in your profile and indicate what cableco you have, it would go a long way toward trying to help you and guide you to the right thread (this is a Master thread after all and is designed to provide links to individual threads, not answer all questions). :)

That said, there are at least 2 software packages (SARA and Passport) running on the 8300 and more (Navigator and Tivo) are coming, so it's not a matter of just selecting any 8300 thread and trying out the info that is presented in that thread.

FWIW, I believe the Guide/Info combo is for users running SARA software. I believe Passport users enable formats using the General Settings menus. If the Guide/Info doesn't get you into the setup routine, maybe try pressing Settings twice to get to General Settings and look for something like Set:Picture Format. Then, if you see options like Pass-Through, Upconvert, etc., you have SARA and the Guide/Info should have worked. I don't use Passport, so I don't know what the exact options are, but if you see resolutions like 480i, 720p, 1080i, etc., then you have Passport and you should be able to enable the formats you need/want right there.

If none of this works, let us know and we'll try to help further. Also, please update your profile and indicate your cableco. Eventually, once you figure more out, it is also helpful if you indicate your software version number (SARA 1.88.22.1 or Passport 2.5.066).

Doh! Looks like I have Passport. I posted after only reading the SARA threads. I'm good to go now, thanks.

I'm with Time Warner in NC, BTW.

Thanks. I assume you found the Passport thread.

Hi, recently upgraded from the explorere SA 4200HD cablebox to the SA 8300HD DVR.
I noticed that the picture quality of the Hi Def channels on SA 8300HD DVR is not as clear as that of the SA4200HD. I've used the same exact compononent cables for both boxes along with my Sony Bravia HD LCD. Do HD DVR's inherently have a lower picture quality than standard HD box? or is the the SA 8300HD DVR defective?

Hi - I had the exact same experience. We will probably return the DVR box to get the non-DVR HD quality again. From what I have read, the quality will depend upon the quality of the DVR recorder - the lower quality definitely looks more "digitized" - it is after all going through a second recording process where it is being saved to the hard drive before going to the TV (even if you are not recording the show) - kind of like a better version of what we get through a Series 2 Tivo. The Tivo Series 3 is supposed to be the best quality DVR, but at a price point of $650, I'm going to wait a while longer to put PVR onto our new HD TV (we moved the Tivo to the bedroom w/ our standard TV).

If anyone knows of a way to increase the HD quality through the SA PVR, please let me know - it's disappointing :( , and with a brand new 1080p Samsung DLP, we want the best quality experiences out of our high def. If we want to record lower quality programming, we'll do that on our standard TV for now.

The DVR's are bit for bit identical to the original stream if they are digital channels.
Differences in quality will be due to setup of the STB options as described in the tips and tricks thread or the manual.
My guess is that it was defaulted to a 480 output.
vegggas

The DVR's are bit for bit identical to the original stream if they are digital channels.
Differences in quality will be due to setup of the STB options as described in the tips and tricks thread or the manual.
My guess is that it was defaulted to a 480 output.
vegggas

Veggas - We checked the settings and it is set at the 1080i output. The quality difference I'm talking about appears only on the High Definition channels (standard broadcasts appear about the same).

Just to complete the info, we are on cablevision, the SA is connected via HDMI cable (Monster HDMI to HDMI). The previous non-PVR STB was connected via Monster HDMI (TV) to DVI (Box), but that factor alone shouldn't have produced *better* quality I wouldn't think.

Quality info: high def programming is still high def quality, it just appears a bit more "flat" than the other box, more film/grainy backgrounds, has harder time capturing motion without slight pixilating blur - with more variations between the channels visible (some movies on HBO/Showtime ok, other channels like PBS HD definitely worse), with an infrequent artifact event apparent (picture breaking up into digital boxes as hard drive struggles to catch up to picture). All of this probably sounds worse than it is - most people probably wouldn't notice the difference, it is just these little things bother me...I don't quite get the same "Wow" we did out of the other box. Generally the broadcast quality is now one step below what I am getting now out of my ordinary DVD's played through the Samsung 1080p upconverting DVD player, when before the broadcast was better - absolutely perfectly crisp both in foreground and background.

<- just tossing mud on the wall...

Could some of it just be the per-[input/scan rate] calibration?
Or some [cadence/timing mismatch/cycling] between the signal - 8300 - TV scaler?
Does the TV have a QAM tuner and can you tune any of the unencrypted channels directly to compare?

v/r,
C-F

My SA8300HD (that I have had for over 6 months) just did something I've never seen...

It was off, and then the drive spun up and the display went from the clock to a bunch of strange count downs as if downloading or formating the drive or something.

the process ended after about 5 minutes, then the display said "proc" then "boot" and went blank... then the time came back.

I was very afraid that when I turned it on, I would find that my drive had been formatted and all my recordings would be gone... but luckily everything was still intact.

I checked the software version and it is now:

SARA v1.89.16.2

(previosuly when I checked several months ago, it was 1.87.16.a11)

Anyone else have this version of sara running?
I was considering getting an external SATA drive, but maybe I should wait to be sure there are no reported bugs with this version of sara...

I am in Toronto with Roogers cable.

thnx

From what I read over on HDTVoice, Rogers is the only cableco to load that version so far. They did it partially because of the upcoming change to DST and finally add new features that have been available elsewhere in 1.88.x.x versions.

From what I read over on HDTVoice, Rogers is the only cableco to load that version so far. They did it partially because of the upcoming change to DST and finally add new features that have been available elsewhere in 1.88.x.x versions.

what is the change to DST (I assume DST = day light savings time)?
Is it being discontinued all together? or just changed to start/end at a different period?

is there a list anywhere that outlines the 1.88.xx features you are talking about?

One thing I noticed right away with the new version, is that when you change channels the little info bar includes the start and end time as well as the show title, so that is handy I guess.

<- just tossing mud on the wall...

Could some of it just be the per-[input/scan rate] calibration?
Or some [cadence/timing mismatch/cycling] between the signal - 8300 - TV scaler?
Does the TV have a QAM tuner and can you tune any of the unencrypted channels directly to compare?

v/r,
C-F

I did the diagnostic last night and indeed, the worse channels are outside the recommended QAM rate - i.e., PBS. It's too bad I didn't know about this on the non-PVR box as I don't know whether that box would have produced the same results. As for tuning those specific channels or a QAM tuner on my TV, I'm going to have to research this more to see if/how that can be done on my Samsung 5687w.

However, I don't think this has anything to do with the overall difference between the PVR and non-PVR STBs because even the "good" channels within the proper scanning specs (i.e., HBO, Showtime) are not quite at good as they were on the non-PVR box....so while this explains why some channels are better than others, this doesn't explain the difference between the two boxes.

I have to say that if you never had the non-PVR SA box, you'd never know you weren't getting the top quality on your TV. The difference would not be apparent unless you'd actually seen both boxes running on your TV. I'm curious if anyone else has compared the two boxes (w/ and w/out PVR) on their HD TV.

I think DoubleDAZ was playing with a digital only 4xxx series box as well, you might ask for his opinion.

Looks like a Samsung HL-S5687W might not have a QAM tuner.

I have only seen the Pioneer Voyager 3510HD box and the SA8000HD hooked up to a Samsung 32" 4:3 CRT HDTV through a Zektor component switch on PASSPORT (around three years ago and not a platform to compare at the level of critique you are expressing). Without looking back, I think there was some discussion about a "softer" picture, but I am not sure I saw it. So much of [video quality] is subjective and dependant on calibration. The thing I remember most is the loss of an easy way to output anamorphic composite/s-video signal for archive recordings.

v/r,
C-F

I think DoubleDAZ was playing with a digital only 4xxx series box as well, you might ask for his opinion.I have an 8300HD DVR and a (broken-waiting on replacement) 8240HD DVR. The latter is the same as the 8300, but without the analog tuner. I see absolutely no difference in PQ between the 2, but I did notice a difference in PQ when I went from the 3250HD non-DVR to the 8300HD DVR. I won't go so far as to say one was better than the other, just that they were different, so I went back through DVE and IHND Tuneup to update my TV settings for brightness, contrast, etc. I'm sure I'd see some differences in a side-by-side comparison, but I'm not enough of a purist to worry about that. :)

...I did notice a difference in PQ when I went from the 3250HD non-DVR to the 8300HD DVR. I won't go so far as to say one was better than the other, just that they were different...

Thanks, guys, for all your input! :)

Yes - we adjusted contrast/brightness too - made it better, but not perfect. The biggest thing is that the PVR doesn't seem to be able to handle motion as well - that's when things blur and pixilate. For instance, Charlie & Chocolate Factory on HBO looked as good as non-PVR at first, until the ship goes moving down the water, then the difference is apparent (we had watched this show before on the non-PVR so I could compare). Yes, both don't render the motion of that scene quite completely, but on the non-PVR it's barely noticeable, while it is certainly noticeable on the PVR. My guess is that the apparent difference is all going to depend on everyone's specific setup and TV.

I still have the 8300HD PVR but I feel the difference is enough that I am probably going to exchange it back for the non-PVR when I get the chance. The convenience of recording of a show is nice but not enough to compensate for me, since we use this TV just for the HD "wrap-around" experience and can record shows in standard quality on my standard non-HD TV. Though if SA comes out with a new model box or the Tivo drops in price, we'll try again.

One thing you might want to look at is signal levels. The DVR seems more finnicky about levels than my non-DVR was.

... and also has a 3.5db decrease in signal because it has two tuners with an internal splitter. My guess is that some of the channels were marginal to begin with and having the dual tuners, the signal is now at 1/2 the power (-3db) and causing more errors in the stream.
I use the 3100HD, 3250HD 8000HD DVR, and 8300HD DVR.
The 8300 looks the best, with the 3250 coming in second. The 8000 comes in third only because it has a bit of haze to the image, although resolution seems unaffected. The 3100 is last, but only because it's earlier generation that doesn't seem to have that pop.

vegggas

Hello, Newbie here, where can I find the latest SARA version and how do I install ?
COX Cle, 8300HD, PIO 5070

Hello, Newbie here, where can I find the latest SARA version and how do I install ?
COX Cle, 8300HD, PIO 5070Is that COX Cleveland ?
If so, we wait for Cox to get around to it. When and if, Cox will install it in the middle of the night.


Cox Cleveland, SARA v1.87.21.1

Hello, Newbie here, where can I find the latest SARA version and how do I install ?
COX Cle, 8300HD, PIO 5070
You don't install it. The updates are usually pushed late at night(early morning) by your cableco directly through the cable line.

... and also has a 3.5db decrease in signal because it has two tuners with an internal splitter. ....
The 8300 looks the best....

vegggas

Veggas...after living w/ this PVR now for a couple of weeks, I think the 3.5db decrease in signal must be the answer. I DO have the 8300. But indeed, there is markedly more difference between channels based on the signal, with about half the channels falling 2-3db outside the "acceptable" range (certainly would then be within range on non-PVR). I notice times when the picture improves and this corresponds with improved signal.

Does this mean that ANY PVR will result in a signal decrease? Is there a way to boost the signal on a TV without a QAM tuner (which I don't believe that my Samsung s5687w has)?

thanks, Guys..
so really IF Cox dosn't update - I will not get the new features etc.. right ?
so calling them and request an update ?

I live in New York, NY (Time Warner Cable), and I just got my 8300. It worked fine when I turned it on (although it took forever to change channels), but after about 10 minutes, then I changed the channel to CNN, and it started stuttering. I'd get maybe half a second of sound every 3 seconds, and the picture was broken and distorted. I tried changing back to my original channel, and then that one was broken, too.

Any suggestions?

Do you have splitters in the system? If so, try disconnecting everything and run a co-ax from the main cable entrance to the STB.

Also see:
www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9529931&&#post9529931

Veggas...after living w/ this PVR now for a couple of weeks, I think the 3.5db decrease in signal must be the answer. I DO have the 8300. But indeed, there is markedly more difference between channels based on the signal, with about half the channels falling 2-3db outside the "acceptable" range (certainly would then be within range on non-PVR). I notice times when the picture improves and this corresponds with improved signal.

Does this mean that ANY PVR will result in a signal decrease? Is there a way to boost the signal on a TV without a QAM tuner (which I don't believe that my Samsung s5687w has)?How is your 8300 connected? Does the cable come straight from the wall to the 8300? Or is there a splitter, powerstrip/conditioner, or something between the wall and the 8300?

First of all, thanks to all of you who are regulars here. I've been lurking around these forums learning from you all for the past few weeks.

I recently purchased my first HTIB, finally making the jump to "real audio."

I've finally configured my SA 8300HD DVR from Time Warner (Rochester, NY) for the proper display settings and digital output (via digital optical).

As soon as I made these sweeping changes, I noticed a major problem. The DVR is connected to my TV via HDMI and to the A/V Receiver via digital optical cable. The DVR is set to "Dolby Digital" (as opposed to HDMI).

Now, whenever I turn on the box or switch inputs (to use my XBox 360, Wii, etc.) or turn the box off, I get snow... even when the box is off. I saw a couple of other posts about this, but didn't see any resolution.

If I press the "HD/Zoom" button on the DVR remote, it will cycle through and correct the picture. Also, if I jump from an HD channel to an SD channel (or vice versa), it corrects.

Is this a firmware bug or is my box going/gone bad?

If it's a firmware problem, am I better off with component cables?

I've got a home service call scheduled for Saturday and I'm not letting them take my existing box (with all of my recording preferences) until I test the new box for the same issue.

I've tested the HDMI cable, TV HDMI port(s), digital optical cable, and the resolution settings (by restoring the default of only 1080i). Only this combination (HDMI for video, digital optical for sound, set to Dolby Digital) causes this problem.

Any help that anyone offers will be greatly appreciated. Many thanks in advance.

Michael

TV: Samsung DLP (HLS4266W)
DVR: SA 8300HD
HTIB: Onkyo HT-S790

First of all, thanks to all of you who are regulars here. I've been lurking around these forums learning from you all for the past few weeks.

I recently purchased my first HTIB, finally making the jump to "real audio."

I've finally configured my SA 8300HD DVR from Time Warner (Rochester, NY) for the proper display settings and digital output (via digital optical).

As soon as I made these sweeping changes, I noticed a major problem. The DVR is connected to my TV via HDMI and to the A/V Receiver via digital optical cable. The DVR is set to "Dolby Digital" (as opposed to HDMI).

Now, whenever I turn on the box or switch inputs (to use my XBox 360, Wii, etc.) or turn the box off, I get snow... even when the box is off. I saw a couple of other posts about this, but didn't see any resolution.

If I press the "HD/Zoom" button on the DVR remote, it will cycle through and correct the picture. Also, if I jump from an HD channel to an SD channel (or vice versa), it corrects.

Is this a firmware bug or is my box going/gone bad?

If it's a firmware problem, am I better off with component cables?

I've got a home service call scheduled for Saturday and I'm not letting them take my existing box (with all of my recording preferences) until I test the new box for the same issue.

I've tested the HDMI cable, TV HDMI port(s), digital optical cable, and the resolution settings (by restoring the default of only 1080i). Only this combination (HDMI for video, digital optical for sound, set to Dolby Digital) causes this problem.

Any help that anyone offers will be greatly appreciated. Many thanks in advance.

Michael

TV: Samsung DLP (HLS4266W)
DVR: SA 8300HD
HTIB: Onkyo HT-S790
So, have you tried component hookup? Maybe you indicated this in your next to the last paragraph.

First of all, thanks to all of you who are regulars here. I've been lurking around these forums learning from you all for the past few weeks.

I recently purchased my first HTIB, finally making the jump to "real audio."

I've finally configured my SA 8300HD DVR from Time Warner (Rochester, NY) for the proper display settings and digital output (via digital optical).

As soon as I made these sweeping changes, I noticed a major problem. The DVR is connected to my TV via HDMI and to the A/V Receiver via digital optical cable. The DVR is set to "Dolby Digital" (as opposed to HDMI).

Now, whenever I turn on the box or switch inputs (to use my XBox 360, Wii, etc.) or turn the box off, I get snow... even when the box is off. I saw a couple of other posts about this, but didn't see any resolution.

If I press the "HD/Zoom" button on the DVR remote, it will cycle through and correct the picture. Also, if I jump from an HD channel to an SD channel (or vice versa), it corrects.

Is this a firmware bug or is my box going/gone bad?

If it's a firmware problem, am I better off with component cables?

I've got a home service call scheduled for Saturday and I'm not letting them take my existing box (with all of my recording preferences) until I test the new box for the same issue.

I've tested the HDMI cable, TV HDMI port(s), digital optical cable, and the resolution settings (by restoring the default of only 1080i). Only this combination (HDMI for video, digital optical for sound, set to Dolby Digital) causes this problem.

Any help that anyone offers will be greatly appreciated. Many thanks in advance.

Michael

TV: Samsung DLP (HLS4266W)
DVR: SA 8300HD
HTIB: Onkyo HT-S790

What you are running into is fairly normal for the HDMI connection. It is really due to the required security (HDCP) handshake between the set and the DVR. Every DVR wil give the same problem - so don't swap it out. (8300s are kind of rare these days, they will likely give you an old 8000). If this problem really bothers you, you can switch to component cables.

I assume that you are not now having any audio issues with the Audio set to "Dolby Digital"

Thanks, guys. Component cables work A-OK. No audio issues whatsoever... just video.

I guess I find it kind of absurd that I'm forced to make the choice between the best audio and the best video. With what we're charged for cable (not to mention the equipment costs) I don't think it's unreasonable to expect to be able to access the best audio and best video available in my equipment

Regardless, thank you for your responses. I'll switch over to component cables. Thanks!

Michael

Just got off the phone with Time Warner. After five calls, I finally got an HD specialist. I was promised a call back three times and I had to actually demand it this time.

The HD Specialist indicated that he has heard of the snow problem when using HDMI and the Dolby Digital setting on the DVR. Apparently, a number of other customers have complained about this issue. He processed a problem report and told me that they would be investigating the problem tomorrow. He said I would likely receive a call as they were looking at my box.

Here's hoping this prompts a firmware upgrade that corrects this problem.

I'm a bit confused: how does DD setting tie into this?

Sorry. I guess I wasn't clear. The snow problem only happens when I've set the DVR to output audio to "Dolby Digital" (as opposed to "HDMI" or "Other").

I'm not entirely sure why it's happening, but the problem is that the DD output is messing with the signal over HDMI. I've temporarily (hopefully) shifted to component cables until the matter is resolved.

If that doesn't clear it up, I guess I could go into details on all the experimentation that I did...

Sorry if it's unclear. I just got my first HTIB and I'm still learning about all the audio options... which is why I'm just noticing this problem now.

Thanks!

Thanks, the issue is usually stated the other way around (having HDMI connection messes up the DD to a separate receiver). The interesting thing that you came up with is that you ONLY have the HDCP handshake problem (that's what the snow is due to) when you have the sound set to DD, and not to HDMI.

We are due to get an update to SARA any time now - but I sort of doubt that your issue will be addressed.

Thanks, Dave. I'm still learning about the inner workings of the SA 8300HD and the problems (both separate and related) that HDCP causes.

Would cycling the resolution/stretch modes on the DVR cause another (successful) attempt at the handshake?

Thanks, Dave. I'm still learning about the inner workings of the SA 8300HD and the problems (both separate and related) that HDCP causes.

Would cycling the resolution/stretch modes on the DVR cause another (successful) attempt at the handshake?It's hard to say. The issue seems to be different with different displays (that's why cable is often "stumped" with these issues - and usually recommend component connections).

I hooked up via component last night while my HDMI was connected, giving me the ability to switch back and forth.

Whew. Anyone who says that the difference between component and HDMI is almost imperceptible must be blind. The HDMI was clearly sharper and more vibrant. I hope they get this fixed soon... or I may just have to re-evaluate my choice of audio over video.

Thanks again for the replies and advice!

I guess I'm a little confused. Why not just set the 8300 to HDMI audio and do away with the optical? Is the optical output a better audio signal?

I hooked up via component last night while my HDMI was connected, giving me the ability to switch back and forth.

Whew. Anyone who says that the difference between component and HDMI is almost imperceptible must be blind. The HDMI was clearly sharper and more vibrant. I hope they get this fixed soon... or I may just have to re-evaluate my choice of audio over video.

Thanks again for the replies and advice!
I agree. Until just recently I had my 8300 connected to my display via HDMI and I have always felt that it was superior to component. The images were clearer and sharper and less saturated than component. Due to some other connectivity issues, it's now connected via component and I too can notice a difference. It's certainly acceptable, but just not as crisp.

With all due respect to my vision-challenged friends (and the use of a poor cliche I might add), the folks who do not notice much, if any difference, are not blind, they simply have a CRT-based HDTV. As has been noted many times, almost anyone with a digital (LCD, DLP, etc.) HDTV will notice a difference in PQ. There is almost certainly some difference even on CRT sets, just not enough to see without a side-by-side comparison or to warrant dealing with HDMI/HDCP/Audio problems. Most video is subjective anyway, so even those with digital might still not see enough of a difference to make dealing with other issues worth the hassle.

First, let me apologize to anyone offended by my use of the word, "blind."

The reason I don't want to just set to HDMI is that you lose surround sound. For shows only broadcast in stereo, the HDMI (audio) setting is fine.

I also happened to notice that the problem comes back when switching tv inputs (HDMI to Component and back again) when the "Dolby Digital" option is selected on the DVR. My theory is that any time you initialize the HDMI connection again, it needs to re-handshake.

The Dolby Digital setting on the DVR messes with HDCP in such a way that the handshake isn't completed successfully. This does not happen when the audio is set to HDMI.

Here's my question: Would Time Warner ever consider disabling HDCP on individual boxes due to this problem? Do they even have that kind of control?

The differences between HDMI and Component are more dependent on your displays proccessing of the signal. Technically, they are capable of the exact same output quality, but are constrained by the connection types (i.e. poor quality component cables could affect PQ) and how the signal is handled at the display. The biggest factor is that most digital displays, since they are fixed, have to convert the component signal and scale it, and do a piss poor job. Those that are called "Blilnd" have a display that is usually better at handling the various inputs.

Also, turning off HDCP is not an option. That is the only reason HDMI exists, as a way to control and protect digital video.

vegggas

Thanks for the reply.

I guess I just have to sit and hope that TW Rochester can react to this. If the guy was telling me the truth (and the only reason I'm suspicious is that it took me three or four requests to get someone on the phone, including the last CSR trying to rush me off the phone without talking to an HD tech), they have heard this from a number of subscribers and are going to follow up on it.

He said something about taking a look at my box remotely. Not sure what he's looking for or if there is something that can be done, though.

I think I saw in the service menu that I'm running SARA 1.88.??.

Michael

The differences between HDMI and Component are more dependent on your displays proccessing of the signal. Technically, they are capable of the exact same output quality, but are constrained by the connection types (i.e. poor quality component cables could affect PQ) and how the signal is handled at the display. The biggest factor is that most digital displays, since they are fixed, have to convert the component signal and scale it, and do a piss poor job. Those that are called "Blilnd" have a display that is usually better at handling the various inputs.

Also, turning off HDCP is not an option. That is the only reason HDMI exists, as a way to control and protect digital video.

vegggasvegggas, I agree with everything you say - but I would also like to introduce an additional variable - the user settings (brightness, color, etc.) settings probably need to be different for component and HDMI. M ost decent sets these days have separate memories for each input but for someone to make a comparison they really need to make sure that they have these set to appear nearly the same as possible.

For example, one poster said that with HDMI the picture appeared brighter and more vibrant, while another said the opposite (picture appeared pale on HDMI). In my experience (in calibrating) I've found considerable differences in the correct settings from set to set.

BTW: This is not a CRT vs digital display thing (though the other Dave did make a good point) - it is likely largely a user setting thing.

First, let me apologize to anyone offended by my use of the word, "blind."

The reason I don't want to just set to HDMI is that you lose surround sound. For shows only broadcast in stereo, the HDMI (audio) setting is fine.

I also happened to notice that the problem comes back when switching tv inputs (HDMI to Component and back again) when the "Dolby Digital" option is selected on the DVR. My theory is that any time you initialize the HDMI connection again, it needs to re-handshake.

The Dolby Digital setting on the DVR messes with HDCP in such a way that the handshake isn't completed successfully. This does not happen when the audio is set to HDMI.

Here's my question: Would Time Warner ever consider disabling HDCP on individual boxes due to this problem? Do they even have that kind of control?

I did not get any response to my question above and am still confused about the HDMI audio and I still have several questions.

Why do you lose surround sound through the HDMI? I'm running the 8300 to my Denon AVR through HDMI only and have no trouble receiving Dolby digital.

When I switch the settings on the 8300 to Dolby Digital from HDMI it shuts off the audio through the HDMI and sends it (I assume to the optical out).

If I connected the AVR to the optical out would I receive better quality sound than through the HDMI?

Here's what's going on:

HDMI from DVR to TV
Optical from DVR to AVR

My TV can't pass through Dolby signals (despite what Samsung's website says). My AVR is not HDMI-capable.

So, when I've got it turned on to HDMI Audio in the DVR setup screen, it must be detecting that my TV can't handle the 5.1 pass through (at least via HDMI) and only pumps it through as PCM.

When I've got "Dolby Digital" selected in the DVR setup, it switches over to the optical output, shuts of audio to HDMI, and causes an HDCP problem.

The only thing I haven't tried yet is an HDMI to DVI adapter to use the DVI port in the back of my TV. I don't think it's my TV causing the problem, but if it is (because it may be confused that there is no audio coming over HDMI) then the DVI port should be fine since it is video only.

Although, I think I've read that others have tried this and there is still an HDCP problem in the signal from the box.

Does that make it a bit clearer?

Here's what's going on:

HDMI from DVR to TV
Optical from DVR to AVR

My TV can't pass through Dolby signals (despite what Samsung's website says). My AVR is not HDMI-capable.

So, when I've got it turned on to HDMI Audio in the DVR setup screen, it must be detecting that my TV can't handle the 5.1 pass through (at least via HDMI) and only pumps it through as PCM.

When I've got "Dolby Digital" selected in the DVR setup, it switches over to the optical output, shuts of audio to HDMI, and causes an HDCP problem.

The only thing I haven't tried yet is an HDMI to DVI adapter to use the DVI port in the back of my TV. I don't think it's my TV causing the problem, but if it is (because it may be confused that there is no audio coming over HDMI) then the DVI port should be fine since it is video only.

Although, I think I've read that others have tried this and there is still an HDCP problem in the signal from the box.

Does that make it a bit clearer?

Yeah, I appreciate the response.

I guess I just assumed that your AVR was HDMI capable. So you are using your AVR as an AR.

You might try using component to the AVR and from the AVR to the TV and ditch the HDMI. I think sometimes it's hard to tell the difference once calibrated properly. That is, if you can stomach the extra wires. I mean you bought the receiver to use as an AVR didn't you?

I'm running the 8300 to my Denon AVR through HDMI only and have no trouble receiving Dolby digital.

This is a somewhat different subject. What version of software is your cable company using on the 8300? (And by the way, would you please add your location to your profile - when we are talking about cable it can be important in our responses). The reason that I ask is that there has been a problem connecting the 8300HD to displays with HDMI through many AVRs (including Denon). This is the first that I have heard of any Denon being used successfully with the 8300.

This is a somewhat different subject. What version of software is your cable company using on the 8300? (And by the way, would you please add your location to your profile - when we are talking about cable it can be important in our responses). The reason that I ask is that there has been a problem connecting the 8300HD to displays with HDMI through many AVRs (including Denon). This is the first that I have heard of any Denon being used successfully with the 8300.


Thanks,I'll add my location later today.
I'm in Houston using TWC.
The version is 1.88.22.1.
My setup is as follows:
8300HD==>HDMI==>Denon 2807==>HDMI==>Sharp LC-42D62U

I had a Denon 2307CI that would work also but it would take 3-5 minutes to negotiate with the 8300 for the picture to show up on the TV. After talking to Denon, they aknowledged that a few of the 2307CI's had a "trigger problem" that could be fixed in just a few seconds with a firmware upgrade. I relayed this info to the retailer I purchased the unit from and traded up to the 2807. There is still a slight delay(10 seconds) after turning on the equipment before I get the picture, but all seems to be well with the setup. The 8300 is set for 1080i output only at this time.

By the way, in discovering the problem with the 2307CI, I went through many different configurations with the AVR and the 8300HD including switching it out and running component instead of HDMI to the AVR. I originally thought that it was an issue with the cable box (I've been lurking around this board for some time now - just not posting).

I'm noticing a considerable difference between the component and HDMI connections. The component works fine, however. I have no idea how to calibrate my tv beyond the settings intended for consumers.

I appreciate the reply, though. Thanks for caring. =)

...I haven't tried yet is an HDMI to DVI adapter to use the DVI port in the back of my TV ... Although, I think I've read that others have tried this and there is still an HDCP problem in the signal from the box...It is your money, but I think that might be worth a try.

There have been a couple of reports with a TV offering a dedicated DVI interface with associated L/R stereo inputs that worked to allow DD over optical and digital video signal.
--- i.e. 8300HD HDMI out --> HDMI cable --> HDMI/DVI adapter --> DVI TV input, plus
------- 8300HD L/R stereo out --> Red/White audio cables --> Audio TV input.


The recent failure report using two DVI/HDMI adapters was a slightly different set-up.
--- i.e. 8300HD HDMI out --> HDMI cable --> HDMI/DVI adapter --> DVI/HDMI adapter --> HDMI cable --> HDMI TV input.


v/r,
C-F

I'm a little confused. Why do I want the L/R audio if I'm looking for Dolby. Don't you need a digital audio connection to transmit 5.1?

DVI is Video only. Therefore, you need L-R Audio cables to get audio to your TV. If you don't care about TV audio, then they are not needed. I use my Denon receiver exclusively for audio, therefore I don't have any audio going to my TV. AFAIK, the way you have it connected now with HDMI really should work though. I don't know why switching the 8300 from HDMI to DD should lose the HDCP handshake. What happens if you turn the 8300 and TV off, then turn the TV back on followed by the 8300 after the setting is switched to DD?

OK. I understand the L/R thought now. I don't need my TV audio so that part of it is ok.

As for the HDCP issue, it's not switching it from HDMI to DD that causes the problem. It's leaving it on the DD setting, turning everything off for a number of minutes, and then starting back up. Turning off the DVR still yields a snow field on the TV.

Following your suggestion, full power down, TV on, wait, DVR on: still yields the snow field.

Cycling through display options fixes the issue (always). Switching to component video with stereo (DVR option), then HDMI with stereo fixes it also... and allows me to then change to Dolby Digital (DVR option).

I have some thoughts that might alleviate the problem. I'm going to try to configure an exit macro on my Harmony so that when I exit the TV activity (which I have two of: Surround and Stereo) it sets up for HDMI audio (DVR option).

If my theory is correct, that should alleviate any problems.

I also re-adjusted display settings (just in case I missed something). I've got it set for 1080i, 720p (my TV's native resolution), and 480p (both). I used to have it set for 720p and 480p only. I don't know if the problem has anything to do with a 1080i signal being converted down to 720p in the box and then pushed to the TV. Regardless, I think my display does a better job of downconverting the 1080i signal than the DVR does.

Whew. This is a lot of experimentation. I'm learning a ton, though.

This is a somewhat different subject. What version of software is your cable company using on the 8300? (And by the way, would you please add your location to your profile - when we are talking about cable it can be important in our responses). The reason that I ask is that there has been a problem connecting the 8300HD to displays with HDMI through many AVRs (including Denon). This is the first that I have heard of any Denon being used successfully with the 8300.

I have 8300HD's connected by HDMI to Denon 4806's in NYC (TWC) and CT (Cablevision). I have had no problems.

I have another 8300HD connected by HDMI directly to a Sony XBR LCD. That sometimes displays a "blacked-out" screen telling me I need to reconnect it using component cables. I turn it off and on and this disappears (so far). Someone at Cablevision in NJ is telling installers that HDMI is not supported and that all cabling should be coponent.

I am having a problem with my 8300HD. Starting yesterday, after unplugging the 8300HD to reboot it (connecting an external drive), the drive has not been able to reboot itself. The clock does not come on or anything. After waiting for about 30 minutes, I pushed the power button and got a blue screen with "Scientific Atlanta" on it. After another minute, I get the message "Advanced Services Not Available" and my standard, basic cable comes through. I have tried doing a reboot, hard reboot, forced reboot, and even a "last resort" (all as described in the "Tips & Tricks" thread) but was unable to get the 8300HD to boot back up. Finally, I gave up and exchanged the STB for a new one. You'd think all problems would be solved, but nope, the EXACT same thing happens with this NEW box! I called the tech people at TW (for about the 4th time now) and they said that it must be a "digital signal problem" and that I would have to wait for a tech to come out tomorrow, giving me an "all-day" appointment. By now I am very frustrated. I did NOT want to turn in my previous box if it was not the box's problem because I did not want to lose all I had on it. After learning that the problem may not lie in the box itself, I went back to the TW store to try and get my old one back. The man would not let me retrieve it, saying it was already "in the buffer," or something to that effect, and that it could not be given back to me. I literally had just turned the box in to them 30 minutes earlier so I did not see the problem with just handing it back to me. Now I lost everything on that box all for nothing, as this new box produces the same problem. I am really getting fed up with TW and I don't want to have to deal with them anymore. As far as this tech coming out, I am not all too optimistic that they will be able to do something I won't have figured out myself. Half the time I have to tell these techs how to correctly do something. Is there anyone who is familiar with a situation like mine and might be able to direct me on how to rectify it? I would be so greatful to anyone who can point me in the direction to go about fixing this problem. Looking forward to any response. Thanks in advance.

I need help with my 8300HD. On Monday night I recorded 24 and Heroes at the same time. Both show up fine in my list. Last night I was watching Heroes without any problems, but when I tried to watch 24 I just got the screen you get if you go to the 'DVR channel'. Any suggestions?

I need help with my 8300HD. On Monday night I recorded 24 and Heroes at the same time. Both show up fine in my list. Last night I was watching Heroes without any problems, but when I tried to watch 24 I just got the screen you get if you go to the 'DVR channel'. Any suggestions?
What do you mean by the "DVR channel?" What program length is shown in the recording list for the episode of 24?

There are two different softwares being run on the 8300HD - Passport and SARA. Do either of those names appear when you turn on the box or go to the program guide?

Please list your location and cable provider - in your sig would be the best place for that info.

"DVR Channel" for us here in Tampa, FL with Brighthouse is 899. All recordings use that for playback. The program length shown in the recording list for the episode is 1 hour. I don't know which software is in my box.

"DVR Channel" for us here in Tampa, FL with Brighthouse is 899. All recordings use that for playback. The program length shown in the recording list for the episode is 1 hour. I don't know which software is in my box.
I guess at this point, we should determine your software as the two operate differently in many respects. Press and hold EXIT and SELECT (on the 8300HD) until you hear a ding. Be patient; it may take five seconds. When you hear it, release the buttons and press EXIT again. You should now be into the DIAG screens. You can now use the UP and DOWN buttons on the 8300HD OR the remote to page through the various screens. Go to the screen called "Versions" and post what you find there for ResApp Version.

As I'm not familiar with the "DVR Channel" thing, I'm betting you're on SARA. If that is the case, go to the first post in this thread and click on the third SARA link. There you will find quite a few SARA whizzes.

pepar,

When you play back a recording, doesn't it use a specific channel on Passport? When I select Menu and scroll through the IPG, I eventually come to one marked DVR, 800 here. It's been too long since I played with Passport in North Carolina.

Also, I believe the instructions you posted work for Passport, not SARA, so if they don't work, he probably has SARA and needs to check in wth the SARA Tips & Tricks thread. If he has SARA, he can press and hold the Pause button on the remote until the Mail LED lights, then press the Page Down (-) button to scroll the diagnostics pages.

When you play back a recording, doesn't it use a specific channel on Passport? When I select Menu and scroll through the IPG, I eventually come to one marked DVR, 800 here. It's been too long since I played with Passport in North Carolina.
Nope, in Passport the GUIDE shows only the cable channels. Pressing LIST brings up recordings. When he said DVR channel, I was sure he had SARA.

Also, I believe the instructions you posted work for Passport, not SARA, so if they don't work, he probably has SARA and needs to check in wth the SARA Tips & Tricks thread. If he has SARA, he can press and hold the Pause button on the remote until the Mail LED lights, then press the Page Down (-) button to scroll the diagnostics pages.
I thought it was true for all 8300HDs regardless of software. Thanks for the correction, I will stop giving that instruction unless I know they are using Passport. :o

I suspected SARA too, but didn't know Passport doesn't identify the playback channel like SARA does. But then, Passport tracks bookmarks, so being able to tune directly to the playback channel isn't needed/useful. I think I like the SARA diagnostics scheme a little better though. With SARA, I press Pause twice, holding it the second time. This allows me to still see what I was viewing. When the diagnostics come up, I can press B to make them semit-transparent/transparent and still see what I was viewing. I also like being able to temporarily tune from the Playback Channel to another channel and back and resume viewing my recording from where I left off without having to go through a series of menus. Of course, I'd also like bookmarks, but it's rare that I don't finish one recording before I view another one. Of course, we tend to match out viewing habits to the options available to us, don't we? :)

I suspected SARA too, but didn't know Passport doesn't identify the playback channel like SARA does. But then, Passport tracks bookmarks, so being able to tune directly to the playback channel isn't needed/useful. I think I like the SARA diagnostics scheme a little better though. With SARA, I press Pause twice, holding it the second time.
While standing on your left leg facing true north? <smartass emoticon>

I need help with my 8300HD. On Monday night I recorded 24 and Heroes at the same time. Both show up fine in my list. Last night I was watching Heroes without any problems, but when I tried to watch 24 I just got the screen you get if you go to the 'DVR channel'. Any suggestions?When this has happened to me, I was never able to watch the affected show. I have started rebooting the 8300HD every week to try to prevent these kinds of problems.

While standing on your left leg facing true north? <smartass emoticon>
:D I should have noted that the reason I press Pause twice is to restart to program. If I just press Pause once, the program obviously pauses. Pressing the second time lets the program continue while holding it waiting for the Mail LED. The fact that Passport incorporates this stuff into menus is so much better than SARA, but either way, the info is available and it's just a matter of getting used to one or the other. The bigger problem is that some of these SARA button presses are not documented.

When this has happened to me, I was never able to watch the affected show. I have started rebooting the 8300HD every week to try to prevent these kinds of problems.I guess no one made that clear, did we? The program is almost certainly not there, for whatever reason.

I guess no one made that clear, did we? The program is almost certainly not there, for whatever reason.
Is RussB's problem a "known bug" or is there something wrong with his specific box? Rebooting weekly wouldn't seem (to me) to be "normal"

OK, so in order to go to the DIAG screen I had to hold the Select button on the front of the unit until the Mail light started to flash then I pressed the INFO button (that means SARA righ?).

OK, so in order to go to the DIAG screen I had to hold the Select button on the front of the unit until the Mail light started to flash then I pressed the INFO button (that means SARA righ?).
That'd be my conclusion.

OK, so any ideas on how to fix this?

OK, so any ideas on how to fix this?
You need to go to the SARA thread and ask the experts.

Omi,

There is really no way to fix it, the recording is simply not there. If we could figure out how or why this happens, we'd be able to recreate it and get it fixed. Unfortunately, it usually only happens once in a blue moon, so it's hard to troubleshoot.

Some people have developed the habit of rebooting weekly to try to avoid such problems, but I can't find anything that says that really does anything. I never reboot unless I run into some kind of problem I can't figure out, I get a software upgrade, or I'm testing something.

I seem to remember getting a blank recording once too, but it's been so long that I don't recall any specifics. I also recall rebooting once and having some old recordings show up in the list that were also not viewable. Although the reboot/hard reboot didn't recover the recording, hopefully it cleared whatever the problem was and you won't have any further difficulties. So, unless it happens again (or with some regularity), I wouldn't worry about it, but that's me.

Is RussB's problem a "known bug" or is there something wrong with his specific box? Rebooting weekly wouldn't seem (to me) to be "normal"It is a preventive measure. Instead of waiting for a problem to show up and then rebooting, I reboot on a weekly basis to try to prevent problems. The reason I started rebooting weekly is because once or twice a month the DVR would miss recording a scheduled program. Click here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7053582&&#post7053582) to go to another post about rebooting. Also, read the post following that one.

I watch a lot of programs and I record every program I watch. This allows me to pause a program without missing any of it even if I have two other recordings scheduled following it. I use the play from beginning option frequently. I wonder if recording so many programs may cause the DVR problems.

I have two other DVRs that don't record as much and they don't seem to miss recording a scheduled program so I don't reboot those unless there is a problem.

Well, there are limitations to RAM, but it's difficult to determine just what they are. I record almost everything we watch during Primetime, but generally not at other times during the day. How many recordings are we talking about Russ?

Well, there are limitations to RAM, but it's difficult to determine just what they are. I record almost everything we watch during Primetime, but generally not at other times during the day. How many recordings are we talking about Russ?I usually have about a dozen recordings per day. Most are for first run episodes, but a few are for episodes in this time slot or for episodes at any time. Sometimes, I record one episode, too. In prime time, I record two programs at the same time for about 2 out of 3 hours.

I just called Cablevision (Westchester NY) to activate the 1394 ports on my 8300HD and they initially balked, then when I cited the FCC regulation from 2004, they've directed me to speak with Scientific Atlanta instead. Apparently they don't have the ability to do anything with help from SA...

Remember that the FCC regulation only says that they have to supply you with _a_ cable box with an active 1394 port. Nothing in the law says that they must activate the ports on your particular (DVR) box. Call them back and ask for a non-DVR with active 1394 ports. I had the same problem with Time Warner. They couldn't do anything about the ports on the 8300HD, but did give me a 3250HD with 1394. Just another way to gouge a few extra dollars a month by forcing us to rent a second box.

Has anybody heard anything further about the SA8550HDC, which implements OCAP (i.e., "cablecard in software")?

Has anybody heard anything further about the SA8550HDC, which implements OCAP (i.e., "cablecard in software")?The 8500 series is a next generation box with MPEG-4 capability. It is not yet in the SA product catalog. My guess that the 50 part of 8550 is for a digital only box (can't tune analog channels. The HD suffix is for HD and the C cuffex is the soon to be mandated CableCard version.

Oh, by the way: the current SA8300HD is OCAP capable too.

This morning (2:05am) BHN finally upgraded the software in my SA 8300 HD DVR. The version went from 1.87.23.1 to 1.89.17.1. I live in West Pasco county - I assume the entire service area of Tampa Bay received this upgrade. Hope they continue to stay current and add new hd channels.

Bob Booz

This morning (2:05am) BHN finally upgraded the software in my SA 8300 HD DVR. The version went from 1.87.23.1 to 1.89.17.1. I live in West Pasco county - I assume the entire service area of Tampa Bay received this upgrade. Hope they continue to stay current and add new hd channels.

Bob Booz

I am over in Land O' Lakes and also got the update. I However am NOT happy. I now have a HDCP issue with my HDMI all the way 8300>Yamaha2600>SXRD set-up, where the screen blanks out every few seconds. I have posted in the SARA t&T thread, hopefully there is a fix, I REALLY don't want to go componant!

I am over in Land O' Lakes and also got the update. I However am NOT happy. I now have a HDCP issue with my HDMI all the way 8300>Yamaha2600>SXRD set-up, where the screen blanks out every few seconds. I have posted in the SARA t&T thread, hopefully there is a fix, I REALLY don't want to go componant!

I have had a similar problem that I attributed to the box software still being buggy even after the upgrade. Sometimes when changing channels the picture goes in and out, rolls or flashes off and on. Since unplugging the box for 5 seconds solves the problem on reconnection I assume its in the software. I have not had any problems with my setup of 8300hd dvr to Sony 40" Bravia 3 connected by hdmi or Sony dvd connected likewise. My hdmi has been very stable.

Ugh...I just got my SA8300 replacement from cablevision this week because HQ screwed up the software or something and hundreds if not thousands of these boxes went dead. Anyway, the new one is glitching out on me and I was wondering if you can help me diagnose the problem. Upon watching recorded shows the video and sound keeps pausing and then skipping (sort of like a scratched CD). I have it connected via component and optial cord to my denon 4306 and then to a panny 50" 60U. I noticed that on my receiver that while this skipping occurs that the receiver constantly is moving in and out of 5.1 dolby digital to 2.0 dolby II cinema. What the hell is going on? Is this a bad box? Do I need yet another one? I'm really getting sick and tired of cablevision now as this would be the 3rd box in a year that I've had issues with.

Ugh...I just got my SA8300 replacement from cablevision this week because HQ screwed up the software or something and hundreds if not thousands of these boxes went dead. Anyway, the new one is glitching out on me and I was wondering if you can help me diagnose the problem. Upon watching recorded shows the video and sound keeps pausing and then skipping (sort of like a scratched CD). I have it connected via component and optial cord to my denon 4306 and then to a panny 50" 60U. I noticed that on my receiver that while this skipping occurs that the receiver constantly is moving in and out of 5.1 dolby digital to 2.0 dolby II cinema. What the hell is going on? Is this a bad box? Do I need yet another one? I'm really getting sick and tired of cablevision now as this would be the 3rd box in a year that I've had issues with.
Sounds like it might be signal level too low, or noise on the line. And that would be a service call.

Hello,

I am in Los Angeles and use an Explorer 8300HD from Time Warner Cable. A couple of weeks ago the box developed a problem (occasional flickering) so I switched to a new box. The new box indicates date of manufacturer as 2/2/2007, i.e. it's a new one. The problem is that the menu now is different from before, and unfortunately, the audio option setting, between HDMI and Dolby Digital, no longer exists!

In the old box, this option allows me to choose the audio out setting as either HDMI or Dolby Digital. The former (HDMI) will pass both sound and picture through the HDMI connection. Since this option is no longer available, I cannot pass audio to my Panny plasma anymore.

Did Time Warner Los Angeles recently change their STB's menu? Any suggestion for this problem please? I have Passport 2.6.

Thanks and regards,
Can

I am a Raleigh NC TWC customer and my SA Explorer 8300HD DVR began acting up last night. It won’t tune in ABC at all and several other channels like discovery HD won’t tune in either. The weird thing is that the SD ABC won’t tune in either. Has TWC lost the rights to ABC? I will switch to satellite instantly if that is the case? Was there an update made to the software for the 8300HD DVR recently?

I am on my second 8300HD box. Unfortunately, this one has the same problem as the first. When I hook it up the FIRST time, I get a screen that states the box is "not authorized for use" and I need to call Comcast to set it up. I did, they were confused and told me to get another box. My second one has the same message....so thinking it is not the box that is the problem. I have HDMI going to a new Pioneer 5070 plasma. I have optical out going to my receiver. If I connect direct to the TV with coax, i get a picture, so i know the line in is "live"....any suggestions? I did a couple reboots of the machine (unplugged it, plugged it back it etc).....

I am on my second 8300HD box. Unfortunately, this one has the same problem as the first. When I hook it up the FIRST time, I get a screen that states the box is "not authorized for use" and I need to call Comcast to set it up. I did, they were confused and told me to get another box. My second one has the same message....so thinking it is not the box that is the problem. I have HDMI going to a new Pioneer 5070 plasma. I have optical out going to my receiver. If I connect direct to the TV with coax, i get a picture, so i know the line in is "live"....any suggestions? I did a couple reboots of the machine (unplugged it, plugged it back it etc).....
The box needs to be authorized remotely by the cable company's head end, and you need to make sure you are getting a live *digital* signal not just analog.

I've queried a mod for the best thread for this piece of news but thought I'd post it here immediately as there has been discussion of the 8300HD's "Multi-Room" capability.

"Cablevision loses suit on network DVRs (http://money.cnn.com/news/newsfeeds/articles/newstex/AFX-0013-15452741.htm)"

I've queried a mod for the best thread for this piece of news but thought I'd post it here immediately as there has been discussion of the 8300HD's "Multi-Room" capability.

"Cablevision loses suit on network DVRs (http://money.cnn.com/news/newsfeeds/articles/newstex/AFX-0013-15452741.htm)"

And this has what to do with the 8300HD's "Multi-Room" capability?

I guess the thought is that the idea of Network DVRs might have been holding up release of SA8300MRs.

And this has what to do with the 8300HD's "Multi-Room" capability?
Still needling me, eh?

The 8300HD's MR capability, which to my knowledge has never been implemented, is a local (in the home) network, though I believe I read that the recorded program would go upstream to the cable company and then back to the home to be "played" through another STB in another room. The Cablevision scheme used "remote" storage. It would be transparent to the user, but the off-premise nature of the "DVR" was enough of a difference for "Hollywood" to prevail in characterizing it as "rebroadcasting."

In light of this, I'd be very surprised if the 8300HD's MR capability is ever implemeted as long as it has to go back to the headend before being received by a STB in another room.

And the real bottom line, as I see it, is that we're lucky to have DVR's at all. I have forty-five hi-def movies on the DVR in my "main" system, some as "old" as 15 months. These recordings are a MAJOR factor in my not purchasing any DVD's for a while, not to mention my not buying into BD/HD-DVD.

I thought the multi-room version had a [filter] installed at the main cable entry point - to prevent the [unencrypted QAM?] signal sent to the "receiving" STB from escaping out into the neighborhood - to be seen by whoever is channel scanning with their TV QAM tuner.

v/r,
C-F

I'd be very surprised if the programming went all the way back just to be sent to a different STB, that doesn't seem to make any sense bandwidth-wise.

I also though that Cablevision's scheme would have severely slowed down responsiveness for FF, REW, etc., much like I beleive it does for VOD now

Still needling me, eh?Not really.

The 8300HD's MR capability, which to my knowledge has never been implemented, is a local (in the home) network, though I believe I read that the recorded program would go upstream to the cable company and then back to the home to be "played" through another STB in another room.No, as Cannon-Fodder pointed out, the MR was strictly from the 8300 to other STB's in the home. There are other implementations of this "home server" concept (Moxi). I have also been told that the 8300MR has been implemented by a TW system in Flordia. BTW: SA still maintains documentation (http://www.scientificatlanta.com/ExplorerClubGuides/getting_started/4003869.pdf) on their web site for the MR.
The Cablevision scheme used "remote" storage. It would be transparent to the user, but the off-premise nature of the "DVR" was enough of a difference for "Hollywood" to prevail in characterizing it as "rebroadcasting."TW has also been proposing this - they called it nDVR, for Network DVR. I think that they have been waiting to see what happened with Cablevision before going further with it.

In light of this, I'd be very surprised if the 8300HD's MR capability is ever implemeted as long as it has to go back to the headend before being received by a STB in another room.Well, you can see that this is not the case. In fact, I wonder if this decision will cause the cable companies to become more aggressive in marketing DVRs, as they apparently can't implement the more cost effective nDVR. I, for one am thankful - because indications were that the nDVR implementation would not allow us to skip past commercials.

And the real bottom line, as I see it, is that we're lucky to have DVR's at all. I have forty-five hi-def movies on the DVR in my "main" system, some as "old" as 15 months. These recordings are a MAJOR factor in my not purchasing any DVD's for a while, not to mention my not buying into BD/HD-DVD.Shhhhh - they might take away your DVR! :D

I'd be very surprised if the programming went all the way back just to be sent to a different STB, that doesn't seem to make any sense bandwidth-wise.
It didn't make sense to me either, and perhaps I read it wrong.

I still believe the content owners would do away with DVRs in a heart beat if they could. As long as it resides within our walls and is controlled exclusively by us, we are protected. (Or at least we *have* been protected.) Any scheme that changes either of those two things will be aggressively challenged.

I am getting an error message when I try to record a show saying I can not record three shows at once. When I look at scheduled recordings there are none. When I can home from a trip all my future shows disappeared so I began redoing list. Is there a hidden list I can't find or is there a way to clear out future recordings that don't appear in list

I am getting an error message when I try to record a show saying I can not record three shows at once. When I look at scheduled recordings there are none. When I can home from a trip all my future shows disappeared so I began redoing list. Is there a hidden list I can't find or is there a way to clear out future recordings that don't appear in listYou need to reboot the DVR. You should include the operating system either SARA or Passport in your post and your cable company. If you have SARA, click here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=4682052&&#post4682052) to go to post 1 for SARA Tips and Tricks and click here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=4683407&&#post4683407) to go to post 2 for more SARA Tips and Tricks. Post 2 has instructions for rebooting the DVR. I recommend doing a Hard Reboot. If you have Passport, click here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=4447772&&#post4447772) to go to post 1 for Passport Tips and Tricks.

I did hard reboot and everything is fine. THanks for the help.

I have an Atlanta Scientific 8300HD, purchased from Future Shop in Ottawa, Canada. It was to be used with my cable company there, Rogers. I may be moving to Florida (near Jupiter).

Will this PVR work down there? Any stories about this possibility. I'd rather not sell the unit, I'd rather have it work at the new location.

Thanks.

I have an Atlanta Scientific 8300HD, purchased from Future Shop in Ottawa, Canada. It was to be used with my cable company there, Rogers. I may be moving to Florida (near Jupiter).

Will this PVR work down there? Any stories about this possibility. I'd rather not sell the unit, I'd rather have it work at the new location.
So far, every STB/DVR used in the good ol' US of A is supplied by the cable company serving the area. We not only cannot use our own gear, we cannot BUY them - by law.

You could check, but it is as certain as the sun rising in the morning that you will not be able to use it - anywhere - in the US.

Sorry. :(

So far, every STB/DVR used in the good ol' US of A is supplied by the cable company serving the area. We not only cannot use our own gear, we cannot BUY them - by law.

You could check, but it is as certain as the sun rising in the morning that you will not be able to use it - anywhere - in the US.

Sorry. :(Pepar, your general advice is correct - BUT (in the interests of accuracy) I suspect that your statement:we cannot BUY them - by law.is not correct. I could be wrong - and would certainly like to see "the law" that you are referencing.

Pepar, your general advice is correct - BUT (in the interests of accuracy) I suspect that your statement:is not correct. I could be wrong - and would certainly like to see "the law" that you are referencing.


Effective 7/01/07 the FCC has mandated that anyone will be able to go to a store and buy a Set Top Box, DVR, TV with DVR, etc., and be able to receive any cable content that they subscribe to without having to rent a box from their cable company. This is huge for both electronics industry, and consumers. By 2010 it is estimated that 50% of households will own a DVR type device. Initial 3rd party boxes may have limited features, since current cable card version is only one way. Soon after 2-way cards will allow PPV, and VOD, and other features.
http://www.marketwatch.com/news/story/fcc-rejects-comcasts-appeal-cable/story.aspx?guid=%7BF43ADE20-A23E-4580-B5A0-F01F93BB46D2%7D

Effective 7/01/07 the FCC has mandated that anyone will be able to go to a store and buy a Set Top Box, DVR, TV with DVR, etc., and be able to receive any cable content that they subscribe to without having to rent a box from their cable company.That isn't what they mandated. That is the goal, but all the FCC mandated is that (quoting the article): Starting July 1, cable operators will be required to provide set-top boxes that don't include integrated security features that link the box to that operator.That's not quite the same - as the FCC cannot mandate that CE manufacturer's actually supply the equipment.

That article does express the FCC's goal: The FCC believes that by separating the set-top box from the cable operator, a marketplace would be created in the sales of the boxes, which could lead to driving down the prices consumers pay for cable television.

But, you can buy equipment NOW (anything that accepts a CableCard) that receives much ( not "any cable content") currently received with a STB.

But, back to the law: the FCC (the LAW) does not mandate that cable sell 8300s, does not mandate that any customer acquired 8300s work with the cable system.

The real problem is that the FCC just mandated that new boxes provided by cabe after 7/1/07 not include "integrated security". Until DCAS and OCAP are implemented, the only approach cable can take that complies is to supply STBs with CableCards - which will cost them more money. As a result, the cable companies have been asking for wavers for low cost STBs (that's what this article is about) and the FCC has been rejecting them.

The REAL problem here is that the FCC mandates to not really cover bidirectional operation, which is needed for more advaced stuff (like SDV).

Hopefully, in a couple of years you will be able to buy a TV or TiVo with OCAP and DCAS capability at your local Best Buy - but it won't be on July 1, 2007.

Agree with you 100% on problem being that FCC 7/1/07 mandate does not include bi-directional operation of boxes. I also don't understand why DCAS was not part of mandate. I would think software implementation would not only be easier, but would save consumers the millions of dollars that will be spent on cable cards. And why can't this 2-way DCAS be implemented yesterday, and why was the original 7/1/05 mandate extended two years? Who is controlling who here?

Agree with you 100% on problem being that FCC 7/1/07 mandate does not include bi-directional operation of boxes. I also don't understand why DCAS was not part of mandate. I would think software implementation would not only be easier, but would save consumers the millions of dollars that will be spent on cable cards. And why can't this 2-way DCAS be implemented yesterday, and why was the original 7/1/05 mandate extended two years? Who is controlling who here?I think that the base problem (politics aside) is the way that the FCC works. They don't develop anything - they depend on industry groups to come up with technical solutions. Sometimes (as with DTV) they rely on test results to select the best approach. But they also have had a tendency to "let the marketplace decide" (AM Stereo - remember that?).

In the case of cable, it appears that the cable industry and the CE industry have a hard time working together - so progress has been slow.

RE: DCAS, the DCC set broad mandates (no integrated security) and expected industry to come up with the answer (they did - DCAS, but far too slow).

RE: bi-directional, not sure what happened there

Any other insights? Holl_ands?

As far as I can tell there are "technical" difficulties with meeting arbitrary mandates. It's easy enough to set a date, but you can't just pull operatiing hardware/software out of the air no matter that the mandate says. Most mandates are designed to pressure the powers that be to move in a predetermined direction and this generally involves some give and take, hence delays and extensions. In this case, it seems there are ways to meet the deadline, but it sounds like they are not the best solutions and the better solutions are not that far away. Of course, that could just be posturing by one side or the other. :)

Sooo, if dvl's 8300HD supports CableCard, he *might* be able to use it when he moves to FL?

I think he still needs to contact them and explain his situation. There are a lot of snowbirds in the same situation, where they already own compatible equipment, but I've never heard from anyone who was able to get a US cableco to authorize their owned 8300. We had someone ask the question in the Phoenix thread last year, but I don't know if he ever followed through and checked with Cox.

Sooo, if dvl's 8300HD supports CableCard, he *might* be able to use it when he moves to FL?

Interesting question - BUT:
* What (the other) Dave says is likely true.
* It is highly likely that dvl's 8300 supports CableCard - the SA8300HDCs are just now becoming available - and the "only" reason that they exist is the FCC ban on integrated security, which doesn't apply in Canada.
* And BTW: You still have not told us what LAW there is that prevents people from buying 8300s. :rolleyes:

* And BTW: You still have not told us what LAW there is that prevents people from buying 8300s. :rolleyes:
As I have many times before, I overstated. :o

Common sense, though, should "prevent" US cable customers from buying 8300HDs. ;)

I will stand by "it is as certain as the sun rising in the morning that (the OP) will not be able to use it - anywhere - in the US."

As I have many times before, I overstated. :o True, but who here has not mis-spoke?

Common sense, though, should "prevent" US cable customers from buying 8300HDs. ;)Unfortunately, many folks who frequent eBay do not have much common sense and contribute to the buy/sell cycle. :)

I will stand by "it is as certain as the sun rising in the morning that (the OP) will not be able to use it - anywhere - in the US."Pre-OCAP, I tend to agree, though I do not know what Cox's policy here is toward our Canadian snowbirds. Post-OCAP, I think many current policies will fall by the wayside and retail STBs will begin to fill store shelves as software design stabilizes. It may take a couple of years, but I'm quite certain (hopeful?) it will happen and the DVR will become the new VCR.

I have a 8300HD thru Sudden Link in Parkersburg, WV, the software is sara. I have tried the HDMI , component, s cable and even composite and still have the delay when changing digital stations only, not the analog channels. The screen will go to gray before the channel comes up, is this normal or is there something I can try. Reboot did not help.

Sooo, if dvl's 8300HD supports CableCard, he *might* be able to use it when he moves to FL?

I see no cable card slots on my 8300HD. AFAIK, they are not supported.

I spoke with Comcast today. The CSR I spoke with knew nothing about own-your-own PVR.

My plan: take the PVR down with me and try it. Talk to Comcast. See what happens. Worst case, I take it back with me to Ottawa and sell it. There should be no problem selling it here. They are in high demand.