YES it is. and they were true to there word that they had it ready on opening day!!!
They just added the food network and HGTV in HD also!!!

YES it is. and they were true to there word that they had it ready on opening day!!!
They just added the food network and HGTV in HD also!!!
FIOS is not quite available in my town yet but I've seen Verizon crews doing there thing nereby so I expect it won't be much longer. Can you tell me how much a package would cost to get locals, NESNHD and FoodHD? I am paying $74/mo. to Dish for this without NESNHD.

With all the different packages, its tough to give an accurate number. I think there pricing is on there website. If you get the HD package, you get all the HD channels

FIOS is not quite available in my town yet but I've seen Verizon crews doing there thing nereby so I expect it won't be much longer. Can you tell me how much a package would cost to get locals, NESNHD and FoodHD? I am paying $74/mo. to Dish for this without NESNHD.


For one TV it would be $42.99 for the service and $9.99 for an HD Box. Additional TVs can be added at $12.99 for an HD DVR or $4.99 for an SD Box.

Actual cost may vary depending on local taxes, etc.

Additional add-ons like additional sports programming, the movie package(Starz, Encore, Showtime, IFC, Flix, and Showtime), HBO, and Cinemax may be added as well.

FiOS TV Subs Jump in 1Q
Residential Access Lines Down, Broadband Connections Up
By Todd Spangler Multichannel News 4/30/2007

Verizon Communications said its video business accelerated in the first quarter with a net 141,000 new customers for FiOS TV, bringing the telco to a total of 348,000 subscribers at the end of the quarter.

According to Verizon, it averaged 2,200 net FiOS TV customers per day in the quarter, compared with 1,450 per day in the last three months of 2006.

FiOS TV was available for sale to 3.1 million homes as of March 31, in more than 400 communities in 10 states, giving the service a penetration rate of about 11%. That’s up from 9% penetration among 2.4 million homes passed at the end of 2006.

Verizon said it obtained 769 cable-TV franchises, covering about 10 million households, by the end of the first quarter.

Meanwhile, FiOS Internet was available for sale to 5.3 million premises by the end of the first quarter. Penetration for that service is 16%, compared with 14% of a 4.8 million-potential-customer base at year-end 2006.

Overall, Verizon's fiber-to-the-premises FiOS network passed a total of close to 6.8 million premises by the end of the first quarter of 2007. The company anticipated reaching 9 million homes passed by the end of the year.

Verizon’s primary residential-access-line business continued to decline, with a net loss of 408,000 lines in the quarter to 27 million (compared with 30.2 million a year ago). However, the telco said this was outpaced by a net addition of 416,000 broadband connections for the period, to a total of 7.4 million.

http://www.multichannel.com/index.asp?layout=articlePrint&articleID=CA6437843

FIOS is not quite available in my town yet but I've seen Verizon crews doing there thing nereby so I expect it won't be much longer. Can you tell me how much a package would cost to get locals, NESNHD and FoodHD? I am paying $74/mo. to Dish for this without NESNHD.FiOS does not have multiple programming tiers like some other cable companies. They have just one digital programming tier called "FIOS TV Premier." That package includes 200+ digital channels with 25+ HDTV channels for $42.99/mo. This includes your locals and regional sports networks.

The above $42.99/mo package does not includes the boxes -- each HDTV DVR is $12.99/mo while each standard STB is $4.99/mo. Without a STB or DVR, you are limited to the local and public interest channels.

Other premium add-on packages like HBO, Cinemax, etc are sold separately.

FiOS does not have multiple programming tiers like some other cable companies. They have just one digital programming tier called "FIOS TV Premier." That package includes 200+ digital channels with 25+ HDTV channels for $42.99/mo. This includes your locals and regional sports networks.

The above $42.99/mo package does not includes the boxes -- each HDTV DVR is $12.99/mo while each standard STB is $4.99/mo. Without a STB or DVR, you are limited to the local and public interest channels.

Other premium add-on packages like HBO, Cinemax, etc are sold separately.
So for $68/mo. I can get everything I get now from Dish for $74/mo. for 2 rooms + NESNHD which Dish doesn't carry. If anyone is reading this from Verizon, please hurry to East Bridgewater.

don't forget that CableCard is also an option @ $3/mo.-tho Vz downplays it & you lose your program guide, PPV, & VOD. and of course you need a cablecard equiped TV.

FiOS does not have multiple programming tiers like some other cable companies.

Hmmm, you can get just the Locals for $12.99, Premier for $42.99

Then you can add the Sports Tier, the Movies Tier, and the HBO and/or Cinemax tier.

I'd say that's multiple programming tiers. :D

Hmmm, you can get just the Locals for $12.99, Premier for $42.99

Then you can add the Sports Tier, the Movies Tier, and the HBO and/or Cinemax tier.

I'd say that's multiple programming tiers. :DI think you know what I meant. :) For example, in my market, Comcast offers the following:

Basic Cable
Standard Cable
Enhanced Cable
Digital Classic
Digital Plus
Digital Silver
Digital Platinum

FiOS does offer "Basic Cable" with locals for $12.99/mo, as you say, but they don't advertise it.

So for $68/mo. I can get everything I get now from Dish for $74/mo. for 2 rooms + NESNHD which Dish doesn't carry. If anyone is reading this from Verizon, please hurry to East Bridgewater.Yes, plus taxes. Depending on the agreement negotiated with your municipality, you may pay anywhere from $1.50 to $5.00/mo in taxes. Some towns make ridiculous demands for the right to offer service in their area (PEG + franchise fees), but that's just the way it goes with cable.

I am trying to determine if an issue is a FIOS or local affiliate problem. Right now I am watching 2 1/2 Men on a Baltimore CBS affiliate and it is not coming across in 5.1 but if I go to the wWashington affiliate it is. Has anyone else seen this happen before? The Baltimore CBS affiliate has shown shows in 5.1 before but each week 2 1/2 Men is not in 5.1.

I am trying to determine if an issue is a FIOS or local affiliate problem. Right now I am watching 2 1/2 Men on a Baltimore CBS affiliate and it is not coming across in 5.1 but if I go to the wWashington affiliate it is. Has anyone else seen this happen before? The Baltimore CBS affiliate has shown shows in 5.1 before but each week 2 1/2 Men is not in 5.1.

That's a local issue and you'll need to direct your question to the local thread:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=793124

I was just on the phone with a Verizon Encore CSR and asked him about SNY HD in Northern NJ, and he told me that the channel is LIVE today.

I'm not at home right now so can't check it (it wasn't live when I left the house this morning at 5:30). Is anyone at home in Northern NJ who can confirm this?

Pleaaaaaaaaaaaaassssseeeeee!!!!!

Did they tell you what channel it was supposed to be? I reset my STBs and checked all through the 800 channels and don't see it.







/-----

Did they tell you what channel it was supposed to be? I reset my STBs and checked all through the 800 channels and don't see it.

/-----

I thought 829....not there?

Nope. 828 is NFL Network, 830 is YES. No 829 or 831.

But it must be on! The Verizon Encore CSR said it was! ;)

I wish the CSRs were trained to say "I don't know" when they clearly don't know!

But it must be on! The Verizon Encore CSR said it was! ;)

I wish the CSRs were trained to say "I don't know" when they clearly don't know!

The best part is, he actually made it seem like he was checking to see if it was there. Silly me for believing him. Oh well, guess we're still waiting.

Maybe it will go "live" when the Mets game goes on tonight?? Maybe I can dream.....

Excerpted from The Wall Street Journal:

Verizon is focusing on the $18 billion fiber upgrade of its network (as opposed legacy landline service), and added 141,000 net new customers for its nascent fiber-based TV service, ending Q1 2007 with 348,000 customers.

Verizon Communications said its video business accelerated in the first quarter with a net 141,000 new customers for FiOS TV, bringing the telco to a total of 348,000 subscribers at the end of the quarter.

According to Verizon, it averaged 2,200 net FiOS TV customers per day in the quarter, compared with 1,450 per day in the last three months of 2006.
At this rate, Verizon should have had around 414,000 FiOS TV customers by April 30th and around 548,200 by the end of June (2nd quarter)...assuming the 2,200 net is per day and not per business day.

At this rate, Verizon should have had around 414,000 FiOS TV customers by April 30th and around 548,200 by the end of June (2nd quarter)...assuming the 2,200 net is per day and not per business day.

Doesn't Verizon now have a statewide franchise in California? If that is the case, they could be gaining subs like crazy if only they were smart enough to take over all of California (including Northern California) instead of other smaller and less tech-savvy markets.

Doesn't Verizon now have a statewide franchise in California? If that is the case, they could be gaining subs like crazy if only they were smart enough to take over all of California (including Northern California) instead of other smaller and less tech-savvy markets....lots of new franchises going into effect all over the country, but the problem is Verizon still having to upgrade the infrustructure (central offices and fiber-to-the-home) in many areas. However, FiOS TV should come quickly in those areas already wired for FiOS Internet.

At this rate, Verizon should have had around 414,000 FiOS TV customers by April 30th and around 548,200 by the end of June (2nd quarter)...assuming the 2,200 net is per day and not per business day.

What was the long term estimate? Four million by 2010?

As of this morning, still no SNY HD in Northern NJ, and this was after another call to Verizon last night and the CSR telling me it would "definately be turned on tonight, and maybe even in the 11th hour so they could say it launched on May 1 as promised".

The waiting continues.....

As of this morning, still no SNY HD in Northern NJ, and this was after another call to Verizon last night and the CSR telling me it would "definately be turned on tonight, and maybe even in the 11th hour so they could say it launched on May 1 as promised".

The waiting continues.....

I'm not holding my breath. It's frustrating, because I switched when they had the channel listed as part of the lineup back in January. I didn't worry too much about it when it wasn't actually there since they were telling me they'd have it added by the start of the season. Now, we still don't have it and Comcast is showing all the home games in HD.

I tell ya, if it weren't for Lifetime Movie Network HD and Wealth HD, I'd be switching back... :D

I'm waiting for CSN-MA HD in the Washington, DC metro (Virginia) area. Awhile back, CSN-MA Philly was listed on our channel lineup, and mysteriously disappeared from subsequent lineups.

Now that the Wizards season is over, it would not surprise me at all if it was added. :rolleyes:

Does anyone see much value in the FiOS Sports Package? Aside from the Golf channel, I haven't heard of most of the stations it includes. I was hoping that it would be more like DTV's sports package, which includes the out of market regional networks.

Living in Washington, DC, will I ever be able to get networks like YES and MSG with FiOS?

Does anyone see much value in the FiOS Sports Package? Aside from the Golf channel, I haven't heard of most of the stations it includes. I was hoping that it would be more like DTV's sports package, which includes the out of market regional networks.

Living in Washington, DC, will I ever be able to get networks like YES and MSG with FiOS?

While it would be feasible technically, it wouldn't be worth much for them to offer it. Most of the content would be blacked out and the rest would be of limited interest to a lot of local people.

I got it for Gol-TV (catch some soccer)


Does anyone see much value in the FiOS Sports Package? Aside from the Golf channel, I haven't heard of most of the stations it includes. I was hoping that it would be more like DTV's sports package, which includes the out of market regional networks.

Living in Washington, DC, will I ever be able to get networks like YES and MSG with FiOS?

Has anyone heard about what happened to FSNE (Fox Sports New England) coming to the HD channels?

Does anyone see much value in the FiOS Sports Package? Aside from the Golf channel, I haven't heard of most of the stations it includes. I was hoping that it would be more like DTV's sports package, which includes the out of market regional networks.

Living in Washington, DC, will I ever be able to get networks like YES and MSG with FiOS?
Unfortunately you're out of market for YES and MSG. You'd have to subscribe to the MLB, NHL, and NBA season type services to get those games.

Unfortunately you're out of market for YES and MSG. You'd have to subscribe to the MLB, NHL, and NBA season type services to get those games.

Don't feel too bad - I'm in Northern NJ and can't get MSG HD or FSNY HD.

Article from PC Magazine...

Hot Town, Fiber in the City!

05/02/07: Verizon dishes up a lovin' spoonful of connectivity to my urban apartment. And it barely fits.

There's been a lot of talk on this site about Verizon's new FiOS service, which is essentially the first major push to bring fiber-optic connectivity to U.S. homes. The fat FiOS pipe is big enough to handle all of a household's connectivity needs—telephone, television, and Internet, with bandwidth speeds of up to 50 Mbps.

Verizon is rolling out the new service slowly. Lance Ulanoff was the first lucky PC Mag staffer to have his house wired, and he wrote extensively about the suburban FiOS experience.

click the link for entire article:

http://www.pcmag.com/article2/0,1895,2125030,00.asp


** And AVS is mentioned in the article... "I badgered her to give me some kind of time frame—are we talking weeks? Months? Years?! No comment. Searching the Web, the only hint I could find was in a user comment on AVSForum.com, which puts the rollout at mid-2008. Verizon wouldn't confirm or deny the info."

Don't feel too bad - I'm in Northern NJ and can't get MSG HD or FSNY HD.

Or SNY HD...

Don't feel too bad - I'm in Northern NJ and can't get MSG HD or FSNY HD.
Yep. As long as Jimmy Dolan draws a [sober] breath Fios isn't going to get them, either. Unless the Feds go crazy and tell his company to do it.

Does anyone know if fios wil l have the de la/mayweather fight in HD? I am assuming the will not but hoping anyways.

Unfortunately you're out of market for YES and MSG. You'd have to subscribe to the MLB, NHL, and NBA season type services to get those games.

That's the answer I didn't want to hear. Thanks for the input, folks.

Or SNY HD...

Verizon confirmed a launch date of 5/18 for SNY in HD for their NJ
customers. It will be available on channel 831.

Thanks,
SportsNet New York

Verizon confirmed a launch date of 5/18 for SNY in HD for their NJ
customers. It will be available on channel 831.

Thanks,
SportsNet New York

I'll believe when I see it. I spoke with 4 different Fios customer service agents this week and were told the channel should be live already. Then someone yesterday told me "if it doesn't show up on your system, then you don't have it".

I'll believe when I see it. I spoke with 4 different Fios customer service agents this week and were told the channel should be live already. Then someone yesterday told me "if it doesn't show up on your system, then you don't have it".

Yeah, I'm not confident either but that was the mail I got back from SNY. May 18 is the first game of the Yankees/Mets series, which isn't on FOX or ESPN.

Yeah, I'm not confident either but that was the mail I got back from SNY. May 18 is the first game of the Yankees/Mets series, which isn't on FOX or ESPN.

I got an email from SNY a few weeks ago that told me May 1 was the day. So i'm not going to hold my breath.

I'll take the 18th though, especially since I get back from vacation that afternoon.

I received notification yesterday that my home in SoCal would now have FIOS tv available. I'm thinking about making the switch from TWC digital cable, but if so I'd also likely switch the internet service and phone too. Anyone in SoCal want to comment on the quality of the services for FIOS vs. TWC digital cable? Cost comparisons? Also, Verizon currently has bundle pricing but not for FIOS. Any likelihood that will change soon?

keep calling..
I got $70 for 20/5 internet and FIOS TV premium for a year.. In NJ, but it is probably nationwide promotion.. Keep calling them..

I received notification yesterday that my home in SoCal would now have FIOS tv available. I'm thinking about making the switch from TWC digital cable, but if so I'd also likely switch the internet service and phone too. Anyone in SoCal want to comment on the quality of the services for FIOS vs. TWC digital cable? Cost comparisons? Also, Verizon currently has bundle pricing but not for FIOS. Any likelihood that will change soon?

I received notification yesterday that my home in SoCal would now have FIOS tv available...SNIP...Any likelihood that will change soon?

http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,18263101

Wow! Ask and ye shall receive. Thanks for the link!

So, I'm scanning through the channels this evening and notice that Verizon has quietly added BBC World on Channel 92! I don't know when this was added, but I'm very glad to see it. I'm not a huge fan of the current mindset at the BBC, but I'm always interested in seeing what others are saying around the world.

Start checking the out DSL Reports' Verizon FiOS TV forum. Lots of info there, as noted on the previous post. BBC World 92 was posted on a thread there: http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,18236980

DSL reports is more of a "general purpose" FiOS TV forum as opposed to AVS forum which is home theater focused. Note that they have an internet forum as well.

Late yesterday, Sat., when I picked up my mail, a notice from Verizon that FiosTV is now available in Palm Desert, Ca. Too late in day to check this out until Monday. Internet page shows just computer and phone available. Did anyone get this notice early enough to check it out? Should I be waiting on their doorstep Monday morning or not.

Found out the Verizon store is open on Sunday. Also found out TV service is STILL not available. Why does Verizon send out advertizing for service that doesn't exist! Same ad in the Verizon store. :mad:

I live in Columbia Maryland. Would I be able to get the Metro DC programming or would I have to take the Baltimore channel lineup? I much prefer the DC news channels ....

I live in AA county and we get both the DC and Baltimore stations, I believe it is the same in Howard.

Is Verizon listening? Do they read this forum? I certainly hope so.

After receiving a mail advertizement for phone, computer, and Fios Tv service, I went to the local Verizon store, printed in the advertizement. Only to discover the Tv service is not available! Is there anything more stupid than sending advertizements for non-existant service? I thought about mailing it back to them; but I expect it would just go into someones circular file.

They have converted me from someone eagerly awaiting FiosTV service, to wondering if I really want to be involved with a company this stupid! Can anyone with Verizon explain this?

Maybe FiosTV is available in Palm Desert but just not at your location. It is easier to spam the area then to pinpoint areas to advertise.

I received notification yesterday that my home in SoCal would now have FIOS tv available. I'm thinking about making the switch from TWC digital cable, but if so I'd also likely switch the internet service and phone too. Anyone in SoCal want to comment on the quality of the services for FIOS vs. TWC digital cable? Cost comparisons? Also, Verizon currently has bundle pricing but not for FIOS. Any likelihood that will change soon?

See this post (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=10251145&&#post10251145) and this one (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=10340288&&#post10340288)

Good luck.

Maybe FiosTV is available in Palm Desert but just not at your location. It is easier to spam the area then to pinpoint areas to advertise.

Perhaps; but I doubt it! Phone and internet service have been avialable for some time. Since the cables have been in the street for a couple years, I don't think they would just provide TV to part of Palm Desert.

Perhaps; but I doubt it! Phone and internet service have been avialable for some time. Since the cables have been in the street for a couple years, I don't think they would just provide TV to part of Palm Desert.
You may have phone and Internet service but are they FIOS - fiber cable to your house. Until they pull the cable, you are standard telephone service. It takes time, money and manpower to install the cable infrastructure. I understand you wanting the service now - I have been chomping at the bits myself for months until last month when they finally installed FIOS TV.

Perhaps; but I doubt it! Phone and internet service have been avialable for some time. Since the cables have been in the street for a couple years, I don't think they would just provide TV to part of Palm Desert.

That is pretty standard, I believe. Here in northern NJ we had phone and internet for close to a year before tv was available. I feel it was worth the wait.

I live in Columbia Maryland. Would I be able to get the Metro DC programming or would I have to take the Baltimore channel lineup? I much prefer the DC news channels ....

You will get both DC and Baltimore networks in Howard County....standard and high def.

I don't think they would just provide TV to part of Palm Desert.

Well, they could since that is what they have done in Murrieta. I know people in west and east side of town. The west side has Fios TV while the east side of Murrieta is unable to get it as it is not yet available to them.

I did contract work for the US Post Office several years ago. Network inspections after install and server maintenance stuff. But I know for a fact that at one time the USPS had the finances and was ready to implement running fiber to every mail delivery address in the US. The US gov told them they couldn't. Cited "conflict of interest".

Whose interest? Certainly wouldn't have conflicted with any of MY interests. I think that was gov-speak for "we need a private company to do this in bits and pieces so we can tax the crap out of it"

I did contract work for the US Post Office several years ago. Network inspections after install and server maintenance stuff. But I know for a fact that at one time the USPS had the finances and was ready to implement running fiber to every mail delivery address in the US. The US gov told them they couldn't. Cited "conflict of interest".

Whose interest? Certainly wouldn't have conflicted with any of MY interests. I think that was gov-speak for "we need a private company to do this in bits and pieces so we can tax the crap out of it"

Sorry, but I don't buy that. The cost and the lawsuits would both be out of sight. Just look at the trouble V* is having doing it. I put that story in the urban myths box along with the people sitting in an ice bath without a kidney. If it is true, then I applaud the USPS for making the right decision by not doing it.

I did contract work for the US Post Office several years ago. Network inspections after install and server maintenance stuff. But I know for a fact that at one time the USPS had the finances and was ready to implement running fiber to every mail delivery address in the US. The US gov told them they couldn't. Cited "conflict of interest".

The USPS has the funds to run fiber across the country but has been forced to raise the cost of stamps like 5 cents in the last five years citing higher costs?

Riiiiight.

The USPS has the funds to run fiber across the country but has been forced to raise the cost of stamps like 5 cents in the last five years citing higher costs?

Riiiiight.

I'm actually more inclined to believe this story is true - based solely on the fact that I could see congress wasting the money to do such a thing without ever considering whether the public would support it.

I'm actually more inclined to believe this story is true - based solely on the fact that I could see congress wasting the money to do such a thing without ever considering whether the public would support it.Hahaha... The USPS running fiber is... RIDICULOUS... :)

Hahaha... The USPS running fiber is... RIDICULOUS... :)

I think this was part of Al Gores plan to increase postal revenue by having a taxed e-mail system as part of his original development draft when he invented the internet.

Can we get this thread back on to actually talking about FIOS TV?

Thanks.

Can we get this thread back on to actually talking about FIOS TV?
Ok, so what do you want to complain about and discuss? No HD VOD? Where is the improved software for the 6416 DVR? Where are Versus/Golf and A&E HD channels? :D

Has anyone had any luck switching from the FiOS initial package (e.g. ~$42/mo cable & ~$30/mo internet) to the "Triple Play" (phone, cable (exluding STBs), internet for $99? I switched a month ago and they weren't offering the $99 deal, but got a letter yesterday saying they now are offering it. There was nothing in the letter that "excluded current subscribers" but it was a letter about switching to FiOS.

Thanks

Has anyone had any luck switching from the FiOS initial package (e.g. ~$42/mo cable & ~$30/mo internet) to the "Triple Play" (phone, cable (exluding STBs), internet for $99? I switched a month ago and they weren't offering the $99 deal, but got a letter yesterday saying they now are offering it. There was nothing in the letter that "excluded current subscribers" but it was a letter about switching to FiOS.

Thanks

I switched last week when I first heard about it, it knocked about $25.00 off my monthly bill and now I have free long distance. They only thing is you agree to two years of FIOS Internet, no biggie for me. I called the 1-888-818-3467 number because when I tried to do it online the price was $109.99 (??).

I switched last week when I first heard about it, it knocked about $25.00 off my monthly bill and now I have free long distance. They only thing is you agree to two years of FIOS Internet, no biggie for me. I called the 1-888-818-3467 number because when I tried to do it online the price was $109.99 (??).

I forgot to mention your savings should be slightly more than mine because I was paying the pre price hike of 39.95 for fios tv.

My bill is now $99.99 plus the FIOS TV extras for a total of $123.97 (plus taxes). Previously I was paying $148.94 (plus taxes).

Ok, so what do you want to complain about and discuss? No HD VOD? Where is the improved software for the 6416 DVR? Where are Versus/Golf and A&E HD channels? :D

HAH! Afiggatt.....I do not know what you speak of! :D

I think this was part of Al Gores plan to increase postal revenue by having a taxed e-mail system as part of his original development draft when he invented the internet.

Now THAT'S funny! :D

Oh yeah, what is the latest word on the guide/menu upgrade?

FIOS is not quite available in my town yet but I've seen Verizon crews doing there thing nereby so I expect it won't be much longer. Can you tell me how much a package would cost to get locals, NESNHD and FoodHD? I am paying $74/mo. to Dish for this without NESNHD.

Just because Verizon is there does not mean you will get TV service.

We've had FIOS internet for 2 or 3 years now and TV is NOWHERE on the horizon for the area.

Sigh.

Does the Verizon DVR have the 30 second skip and/or the tuner swap feature?

It does have a 30 second skip, at least on the Phillips remote that I have. Although, it is tempermental at times and I need to exit out of the recording I'm watching to get it working again.

It does not have a tuner swap, at least that most of us who had DirecTV Tivo are used to. It is one of my biggest complaints of the Verizon DVR. Some people suggest to record both channels you want watch and flip back and forth that way. I find that cumbersome.

It does have a 30 second skip, at least on the Phillips remote that I have. Although, it is tempermental at times and I need to exit out of the recording I'm watching to get it working again.Just press menu. Don't exit.

Just press menu. Don't exit.

Thanks for the tip!

It does have a 30 second skip, at least on the Phillips remote that I have. Although, it is tempermental at times and I need to exit out of the recording I'm watching to get it working again.

I've had Fios for just under 2 weeks, & noticed this last nite too, while watching on a remote TV w/ the Multi-room DVR. I don't recall if I hit menu, but I tried a couple of things before stopping the recording & restarting it. It also happened once on the main box as well.

I also noticed last nite that 1 of the non DVR STB's lost all sound on evey channel, I needed to unplug/plug it in to reset it as even turning it off/on had no effect.
Also, sometimes the DVR recordings have had a " speaking thru a tube" quality to the sound, which can appear at random & usually goes away within a few mins ....

The 30 sec. skip issue happens to me too. For me, it seems to erroneously map the 30 sec skip button to the "enter" button. So instead of the skip, I get the channel display. Usually I'll just pause and unpause and the problem goes away. I'd say the issue arises once every 100 button presses, so it's not a huge deal.

my 30 second skip craps out at times too.

I just press the Info button 3 times (1st to get the mini info, 2nd gets the full page, 3rd gets you back to the recording) and then it works again. To me its easier then stopping and starting the recording.

Just got a letter from FIOS stating effective I believe July 13th the HD DVR cost will go up from 12.99 to 15.99 for new customers signing up for a HD DVR after that date. No price increase for existing ones. Glad I have my Sony HD DVR with cablecard! Also a change in 'equipment removal' for cancellations/terminations of contract ($75.) Apparently you can still drop off/mail equipment back with no fee.

Just got a letter from FIOS stating effective I believe July 13th the HD DVR cost will go up from 12.99 to 15.99 for new customers signing up for a HD DVR after that date. No price increase for existing ones. Glad I have my Sony HD DVR with cablecard! Also a change in 'equipment removal' for cancellations/terminations of contract ($75.) Apparently you can still drop off/mail equipment back with no fee.

I just got the same letter (Richmond, VA)...
It doesn't say that the Home DVR is going up in price, I wonder if that is staying at $19.99 or when the price for the standard DVR would bump to 15.99

I just got the same letter (Richmond, VA)...
It doesn't say that the Home DVR is going up in price, I wonder if that is staying at $19.99 or when the price for the standard DVR would bump to 15.99

They are probably pushing people to go with the MultiRoom DVR instead of geting 2 DVRs.

Right now it is:
$19.99 for the MRDVR and $4.99 for the SD STB = $24.98
$12.99 for HD-DVR x 2 would be $25.98

So, you only save $1 by opting for multi-room w/an SD STB. It is probably much cheaper for Verizon to purchase the SD STBs than it is the DVR. After the price jump the difference will be $8/month, which might make more people opt for the MultiRoom.

At that price the TiVo S3 is staarting to look more like a contender if you can get past the initial cost.

They are probably pushing people to go with the MultiRoom DVR instead of geting 2 DVRs.

Right now it is:
$19.99 for the MRDVR and $4.99 for the SD STB = $24.98
$12.99 for HD-DVR x 2 would be $25.98

So, you only save $1 by opting for multi-room w/an SD STB. It is probably much cheaper for Verizon to purchase the SD STBs than it is the DVR. After the price jump the difference will be $8/month, which might make more people opt for the MultiRoom.

Unless they can transmit HD signals to other HD boxes the multiroom DVR is useless to most people that have more than one HDTV in their house.

Unless they can transmit HD signals to other HD boxes the multiroom DVR is useless to most people that have more than one HDTV in their house.
Wow, you have two HDTVs? You must be rich.

Honey, he's teasing you. No one has two HDTVs.

Wow, you have two HDTVs? You must be rich.

Honey, he's teasing you. No one has two HDTVs.

I have two! Woohoo! I'm rich!

I have two! Woohoo! I'm rich!

I have two also, but I am far from rich as I am retired. Just spoiled. :D

I have two also, but I am far from rich as I am retired. Just spoiled. :D

I have 3....not rich though, just choose to spend my money on the unnecessary.

I have two also, but I am far from rich as I am retired. Just spoiled. :D

Same for me - retired, spoiled and with a VERY undertstanding wife who would be just as happy watching the first TV we owned in 1956 (a 12 inch, B&W) :D

Same for me - retired, spoiled and with a VERY undertstanding wife who would be just as happy watching the first TV we owned in 1956 (a 12 inch, B&W) :D
Are you sure it wasn't 1955?

Was it on wheels? So you could watch Jackie Gleason while you eat?

;)

ft

No, sure it was 1956 as it was the year we got married - I bought the TV for $10.00 from a guy shipping out from Sampson AFB, NY (actually with a round screen, but don't know what make since there was no plate on the front and you tuned it like you did a radio, just turning a knob until it found the two channels we got). And no need for wheels since it fit nicely in our one room apartment!!!

Unless they can transmit HD signals to other HD boxes the multiroom DVR is useless to most people that have more than one HDTV in their house.

Yes, this is the biggest downfall of the Multi-room DVR.

Yes, this is the biggest downfall of the Multi-room DVR.
I remember reading somewhere that the Fios MRDVR will have a software update by the end of the year to allow HD xfr between rooms ...

I remember reading somewhere that the Fios MRDVR will have a software update by the end of the year to allow HD xfr between rooms ...

Interesting... do you remember if you will be able to watch programs that were recorded in HD on a non HD TV/STB... I normally watch my recorded shows after everyone has gone to bed... If I could watch on a non-HD TV/STB, I could go to bed earlier... it also may force me to get the Bedroom HD TV sooner.

Interesting... do you remember if you will be able to watch programs that were recorded in HD on a non HD TV/STB... I normally watch my recorded shows after everyone has gone to bed... If I could watch on a non-HD TV/STB, I could go to bed earlier... it also may force me to get the Bedroom HD TV sooner.
No I don't recall specifics, but I seem to think that The shows would not "downconvert" ... however I'm sure someone in the Fios box thread may know more about what may be in the future updates ...

I remember reading somewhere that the Fios MRDVR will have a software update by the end of the year to allow HD xfr between rooms ...
Price increase - guess they're having to pay the programmers more than expected for the new interface and multiroom HD feature. Which is just what I don't need... there's barely enough space now for my and the Mrs. shows... with multiroom the kids would want space for their HD programming. C'mon SATA!

No, sure it was 1956 as it was the year we got married - I bought the TV for $10.00 from a guy shipping out from Sampson AFB, NY (actually with a round screen, but don't know what make since there was no plate on the front and you tuned it like you did a radio, just turning a knob until it found the two channels we got). And no need for wheels since it fit nicely in our one room apartment!!!
No, I believed you that it was 1956. I was just adding on my Back to the Future reference.

ft

Verizon Adds SNY to Its Growing Lineup of High-Definition Programming

May 17, 2007
Media Contact:
Rich Young, 973-649-2279

NEWARK, N.J. -- New York Mets and Jets fans in northern New Jersey can now see their teams in spectacular high definition as Verizon FiOS TV launches SportsNet NY HD on Channel 831 on May 18.

"We're delighted that SportsNet NY in HD is joining our Verizon FiOS TV lineup in northern New Jersey," said William Foshay, Verizon's general manager for the New Jersey region. "FiOS TV delivers incredible picture and sound clarity, and New Jersey viewers will enjoy the excitement and color of the Mets and Jets in high def on FiOS TV."

With the addition of SNY, Verizon now offers 28 HD channels in northern New Jersey, and Verizon FiOS TV subscribers there will get SYN in HD at no additional cost. The channel is also available to FiOS TV customers in Mercer County and New York. Customers need an HD-capable TV and an HD set-top box to get started with HD programming. SNY will continue to be available in standard definition on Channel 67.

SportsNet New York features over 120 regular season New York Mets telecasts and provides live sports and local news coverage through four sports news shows. It is also the official year-round television home of the New York Jets, providing viewers the most exclusive coverage and access to the Jets organization and players, plus preseason games. SNY also televises other professional and collegiate sports, including basketball and football games from the Big East and Big Ten conferences, as well as boxing, classic sports, event programming and exclusive interview and magazine programs.

Verizon provides FiOS TV over the nation's most advanced fiber-optic network, straight to customers' homes. Verizon FiOS TV offers a broad collection of all-digital programming, 28 high-definition channels in northern New Jersey, 8,600 video-on-demand titles and more. FiOS TV also offers Home Media DVR, which combines a multi-room DVR with Media Manager, a feature that lets subscribers play their digital photos and music on their TVs.

In New Jersey, FiOS TV is available in 180 communities in the state, with many more soon to come.

I have 3 also, if i sign up for verizon now, is the $12.99 fee for each hd-dvr just good through the 2 year contract? or as long as you keep the service?, wow! i might just have to stay with directv. i was really thinking of switching to verizon. god i wish i lived somewhere that i could get all the networks free in HD over the air.

I have 3 also, if i sign up for verizon now, is the $12.99 fee for each hd-dvr just good through the 2 year contract? or as long as you keep the service?, wow! i might just have to stay with directv. i was really thinking of switching to verizon. god i wish i lived somewhere that i could get all the networks free in HD over the air.

I do live in an area where I can do that and I still prefer FiOS. I prefer its stable signal to the many anomalies of OTA.

Verizon Adds SNY to Its Growing Lineup of High-Definition Programming

May 17, 2007
Media Contact:
Rich Young, 973-649-2279

NEWARK, N.J. -- New York Mets and Jets fans in northern New Jersey can now see their teams in spectacular high definition as Verizon FiOS TV launches SportsNet NY HD on Channel 831 on May 18.

"We're delighted that SportsNet NY in HD is joining our Verizon FiOS TV lineup in northern New Jersey," said William Foshay, Verizon's general manager for the New Jersey region. "FiOS TV delivers incredible picture and sound clarity, and New Jersey viewers will enjoy the excitement and color of the Mets and Jets in high def on FiOS TV."

With the addition of SNY, Verizon now offers 28 HD channels in northern New Jersey, and Verizon FiOS TV subscribers there will get SYN in HD at no additional cost. The channel is also available to FiOS TV customers in Mercer County and New York. Customers need an HD-capable TV and an HD set-top box to get started with HD programming. SNY will continue to be available in standard definition on Channel 67.

SportsNet New York features over 120 regular season New York Mets telecasts and provides live sports and local news coverage through four sports news shows. It is also the official year-round television home of the New York Jets, providing viewers the most exclusive coverage and access to the Jets organization and players, plus preseason games. SNY also televises other professional and collegiate sports, including basketball and football games from the Big East and Big Ten conferences, as well as boxing, classic sports, event programming and exclusive interview and magazine programs.

Verizon provides FiOS TV over the nation's most advanced fiber-optic network, straight to customers' homes. Verizon FiOS TV offers a broad collection of all-digital programming, 28 high-definition channels in northern New Jersey, 8,600 video-on-demand titles and more. FiOS TV also offers Home Media DVR, which combines a multi-room DVR with Media Manager, a feature that lets subscribers play their digital photos and music on their TVs.

In New Jersey, FiOS TV is available in 180 communities in the state, with many more soon to come.

SNY HD is in fact up on ch 831 in northern NJ.
Didn't need to do anything to the box as I leave it on all the time. It was there, guide info and all, when I checked at 6:45 this AM.

Mets in HD Baby,


Cant get better than that - beating up on the Yanks maybe, but I'm in HD!!!

I checked out FiOS at my parents' house. They have Comcast but are trying FiOS out.
HD picture quality was about the same as Comcast. Same DVR capacity.

Pros:
HDNet.
A bigger selection of HD channels at the moment.
Faster internet (although I didn't have time to try it).

Cons:
Didn't care for the look of the guide/menus, seemed rather cumbersome.
Didn't like the Phillips remote. (http://www22.verizon.com/nroneretail/nr/rdonlyres/0d93f875-4498-460f-8fc4-a15d519b4e7c/0/welcomekitremotecontrolinsrt_nc.pdf) (Compared it to the silver Comcast remote which of course also works with the FiOS Motorola DVR.)
There didn't seem to be a way to swap tuners.

Hopefully some improvements are in the works if it's ever available where I live. Construction continues in the county, not too far from me.

Well, here it is ...late May... and still no WVEC HD (ABC) on FiOS in Virginia Beach. Unbelievable! No reason given or estimated date for service. Nothing from either side. This is a local thing since the two sides have agreements elsewhere. Two bulls in a stand-off. The customers missed the whole season. :mad:

I checked out FiOS at my parents' house. They have Comcast but are trying FiOS out...

Cons:
Didn't care for the look of the guide/menus, seemed rather cumbersome.
...

Can you elaborate on that, I have not seen the FiOS guide/menus - currently have Comcast (Motorola) DVR.

Thanks,
JayMan

Can you elaborate on that, I have not seen the FiOS guide/menus - currently have Comcast (Motorola) DVR.

Thanks,
JayMan

I find the guide/menu hard to read. There isn't enough contrast with the black text on light grey/blue background. I much prefer white text on dark background, like tivo does. The guide also does not take up the whole 16x9 screen, but that seems to be s.o.p.

In PA, we move at the speed of Glaciers(from the Editorial Page of the Patriot News):

http://www.pennlive.com/patriotnews/stories/index.ssf?/base/opinion/1179524427121530.xml&coll=1

CABLE CHOICE (PA)

House proposal would step up giving viewers more selection
Monday, May 21, 2007

A proposal in the state House is a solid step to ward speeding up consumer choice in selecting cable television service while also providing necessary regulatory oversight.

House Majority Policy Chairman Todd Eachus, D-Luzerne, wants to create a statewide franchising law and put it under the auspices of the Public Utility Commission.

He has come up with a framework similar to one we previously raised. It has also garnered support from the public advocacy group PennPirg and the Consumers Union, as well as some labor groups, according to a copy of a memo Ea chus circulated to other legislators.

The proposed legislation addresses advances in fiberoptic and broad band that are enabling telecommunications companies to offer video services -- sometimes bundled with Internet and phone offerings under one package.

This all holds great potential for more consumer choice, but one problem in Pennsylvania is the need for telecom companies -- as cable companies did before them -- to first negotiate franchise agreements with local municipalities. While these agreements aren't unique to Pennsylvania, the more than 2,500 municipalities here pose a particularly daunting challenge.

In the case of Verizon, the state's dominant telecom, it needs some 1,600 agreements to cover its service territory. It has obtained 131 so far, meaning it's several years away from statewide offerings.

At the same time, the consternation of municipalities in giving up this jurisdiction is understandable. They collect 5 percent franchise fees, get a sort of regulatory control over rights of ways and have the leverage to request certain features on the cable system.

Although these local contracts date to the early days of cable, when the infrastructure was more intrusive, supporters point to the loss of revenue, feel their loss could jeopardize government access channels, and allow companies like Verizon to "cherrypick" more financial lucrative neighborhoods for service.

Our feeling has always been these issues can be addressed within the context of one state franchising law and Eachus' proposal covers most of these issues. Where we have parted with telecom companies like Verizon, however, is that some regulatory oversight is needed.

The PUC is the logical agency since it has long overseen telecommunications and would have the appropriate resources and expertise. Eachus also proposes empowering the state consumer advocate to represent consumers before the PUC, federal agencies and in the courts.

Overall, we like this concept, but will keep an open mind until we hear more from industry groups and others. Both Verizon and the Broadband Cable Association of Pennsylvania say they need more details before commenting.

However, we again note that this issue shouldn't be cast as a municipal government issue, or Verizon against Comcast.

This is about greater consumer choice amid rapidly advancing technology. The sooner we can get off the dime and arrive there, the better.

Still no CSN-MA HD in DC metro area.

What's up with this? FiOS has CSN-Philly HD in Philly. Why not CSN-MA HD in the DC metro area? We DO have FiOS 1 though :rolleyes: . What a waste of bandwidth!

Seriously, NY has two (count 'em, TWO) HD sports channels on FiOS (YES and SportsNet NY). Mercer County, NJ has THREE HD sports channels! We were one of the last markets to get HdNet as well. C'mon Verizon, throw us DC metro area subscribers a Sports HD bone!

Can you elaborate on that, I have not seen the FiOS guide/menus - currently have Comcast (Motorola) DVR.

Thanks,
JayMan

Harder to get around in than the Comcast guide. Takes longer to set up a recording. Hopefully the colors can be changed.

Still no CSN-MA HD in DC metro area.

What's up with this? FiOS has CSN-Philly HD in Philly. Why not CSN-MA HD in the DC metro area? We DO have FiOS 1 though :rolleyes: . What a waste of bandwidth!

Seriously, NY has two (count 'em, TWO) HD sports channels on FiOS (YES and SportsNet NY). Mercer County, NJ has THREE HD sports channels! We were one of the last markets to get HdNet as well. C'mon Verizon, throw us DC metro area subscribers a Sports HD bone!


Dude don't get me started, it is the bigges debacle ever. The only thing that is keeping me from switching is the fact that the o's and the nats are on crappy masn and there is no hd for them anyway. I would like to get dc united in hd as I am a big fan but I like the rest of the package too much to switch over that. Come hockey time, there better be a csn hd channel to see backstrom , semin , and ovechkin in HD or else..... Oh yeah that's right Verizon could care less if I switch ! Still bad business practice to lie , it never helps you out, and they have with out a doubt lied to me.

FiOS will have a new (and hopefully improved) guide this spring or summer. Here's a peak:

http://verizonfios.com/img/

Oh wow, that's awesome. I'm actually excited for the new guide.

Interesting that it says "Spring 2007." Hopefully that means this will be rolled out by the end of June.

FiOS will have a new (and hopefully improved) guide this spring or summer. Here's a peak:

http://verizonfios.com/img/

wow, and here I was willing to sign a contract with TWC for 2 years just so I could get 10% off my bill.

I think I'll give Verizon a year to build up in Manhattan!

I have been having this problem where the image just freezes on my screen but I still get the audio. I have to turn the box off and the TV and it's just a black screen for about two minutes with just audio then the picture will come back to me.

I was wondering if anybody knows what is causing this or if anybody else in the NOVA are has experienced this problem as well.

Oh wow, that's awesome. I'm actually excited for the new guide.

Interesting that it says "Spring 2007." Hopefully that means this will be rolled out by the end of June.

The rollout is expected to begin this summer as early as june.

I had a Verizon Rep tell me the Boston area would be getting the new guide on Friday June 1st.

I have been having this problem where the image just freezes on my screen but I still get the audio. I have to turn the box off and the TV and it's just a black screen for about two minutes with just audio then the picture will come back to me.

I was wondering if anybody knows what is causing this or if anybody else in the NOVA are has experienced this problem as well.
I have the same problem occasionally. Changing the channel fixes it for me.

FiOS will have a new (and hopefully improved) guide this spring or summer.

That is impressive. Verizon FIOS TV has just been granted the go ahead in RI and it will roll out next month. With luck maybe the new guide will be included.

I have been having this problem where the image just freezes on my screen but I still get the audio. I have to turn the box off and the TV and it's just a black screen for about two minutes with just audio then the picture will come back to me.

I was wondering if anybody knows what is causing this or if anybody else in the NOVA are has experienced this problem as well.Yep, I've had that problem, real bad this past weekend. Anyway I found the easiest solution (workaround) is to hit pause and then play - that fixes it for me.

What does Verizon have in HD on demand?
I couldn't find that info on their website.
My comcast only has Starz & Encore for Premiums in On Demand.

What does Verizon have in HD on demand?
I couldn't find that info on their website.
My comcast only has Starz & Encore for Premiums in On Demand.

They don't have HD on Demand as of yet.

Is Verizon hiking up their DVR Rental Fees Already?

Going from $13.00 a month to $16.00 a month

http://www.engadgethd.com/2007/05/20/verizon-hikes-up-monthly-fios-dvr-charge/

Is Verizon hiking up their DVR Rental Fees Already?

Going from $13.00 a month to $16.00 a month

http://www.engadgethd.com/2007/05/20/verizon-hikes-up-monthly-fios-dvr-charge/

If you already have a DVR or get one before July 13 you will continue to pay $12.99.

Does Verizon have the NHL Center Ice channel in their FIOS TV

I don't have FiOS yet, but I will as of early next week (assuming the install goes well). Fios just became available in my neighborhood, and I'm jumping ship from TWC for phone, internet and TV service. With the triple play and 2 year commitment, I'll be saving about $55 per month, and have more HD channels! Not to mention NFL network.

Despite signing up, I've been receiving repeated mass mailings advertising the availability of FiOS in the neighborhood. The worst one to date arrived yesterday. Who writes this stuff?

"Pump up yor TV and PC with the fiber-optic power of Verizon FiOS.
Now you can add new muscle to your current equiplment simply by switching to fiber optics. You'll see the results immediately, with picture and sound so amazingly ripped you have to see it to believe it. Even if you don't have a Hi-Def TV, you'll feel like you do."

Besides the strange workout metaphor, I believe such misleading (and for John Q. Public, confusing) advertising sullies the reputation of Verizon.

I'll be a new Fios TV customer as of tomorrow, Saturday 5/26 in Lake Elsinore, CA. Three weeks ago, it wasn't available at the address (big brand new apartment complex) I'm moving to, but one week ago, it suddenly became available. Nice timing! Can't wait to see it... I've had DirecTV (great equipment, so-so picture quality and programming) and most recently TWC (worst equipment I've ever used, pretty good quality and programming). Here's to hoping the Verizon equipment lives up to the great programming I'm going to get, with close to 10 local HD channels and twice as many national HDs as I got with TWC. Looking forward as well to trying out the Home Media Center thing, and hope the 2.0 upgrade comes SOON!

I'll be a new Fios TV customer as of tomorrow, Saturday 5/26 in Lake Elsinore, CA. Three weeks ago, it wasn't available at the address (big brand new apartment complex) I'm moving to, but one week ago, it suddenly became available. Nice timing! Can't wait to see it... I've had DirecTV (great equipment, so-so picture quality and programming) and most recently TWC (worst equipment I've ever used, pretty good quality and programming). Here's to hoping the Verizon equipment lives up to the great programming I'm going to get, with close to 10 local HD channels and twice as many national HDs as I got with TWC. Looking forward as well to trying out the Home Media Center thing, and hope the 2.0 upgrade comes SOON!
Let us know how you like it.

Everything will be great except the IPG (which is currently terrible). After 2.0 arrives, then that will be great also.

Everything will be great except the IPG (which is currently terrible). After 2.0 arrives, then that will be great also.

I've seen the preview of 2.0 and it looks really cool. What makes the [current] IPG so bad?

I've seen the preview of 2.0 and it looks really cool. What makes the [current] IPG so bad?

Freeze-ups, slowness, complicated, lack of standard features found in Tivo. Ugh! Right now, I miss my D* HD-DVR-Tivo. Hopefully, 2.0 will solve these problems.

Freeze-ups, slowness, complicated, lack of standard features found in Tivo. Ugh! Right now, I miss my D* HD-DVR-Tivo. Hopefully, 2.0 will solve these problems.

I assume your criticisms are actually directed at DVR features? I haven't noticed freeze-ups or slowness with just the guide. (I don't have DVR.) Of course, my comparison is an ancient Adelphia on-screen guide that was about 10 seconds behind whatever you were pushing on the remote, so my perspective might be skewed.

I get frequent skips and freezing on my guide, locks up then jumps like ten channels ahead. very laggy

I assume your criticisms are actually directed at DVR features? I haven't noticed freeze-ups or slowness with just the guide. (I don't have DVR.) Of course, my comparison is an ancient Adelphia on-screen guide that was about 10 seconds behind whatever you were pushing on the remote, so my perspective might be skewed.

Which FiOS problem is due to which FiOS piece depends on who you talk to. However, most all company workers say the same thing: All will be well when you get 2.0. We shall see. :rolleyes:

Which FiOS problem is due to which FiOS piece depends on who you talk to. However, most all company workers say the same thing: All will be well when you get 2.0. We shall see. :rolleyes:

SOON!!!
or perhaps
SOON??? :(

There are 2 "live TV" feature/fixes that the moto DVR box Is capable of, & that many hope will be in the update - Tuner Swap , & ability to control the forced overlap.
For those that may not know:
Tuner Swap - The ability to switch & pause between 2 live channes, not losing your "place" from 1 to the other.. With Tuner swap you can keep 2 channels in buffer, instead of just the 1 you are viewing.
Forced Overlap - This current software "forces" 1 min pre & 2 mins post added to each recorded show, non user selectable or modifyable, which stops the viewer from being able to watch 1 channel "live" during the overlap of 2 record set shows, when, say, 1 ends at 9PM while the next begins at 9PM. This causes both tuners to be locked up from 8:59 to 9:02, leaving no view tuner available. All other dual tuner DVR boxes don't seem to have this problem.
If anyone has any info on fixes in the new software, other than the change of the user interface, please let us know :)

There are 2 "live TV" feature/fixes that the moto DVR box Is capable of, & that many hope will be in the update - Tuner Swap , & ability to control the forced overlap.
For those that may not know:
Tuner Swap - The ability to switch & pause between 2 live channes, not losing your "place" from 1 to the other.. With Tuner swap you can keep 2 channels in buffer, instead of just the 1 you are viewing.
Forced Overlap - This current software "forces" 1 min pre & 2 mins post added to each recorded show, non user selectable or modifyable, which stops the viewer from being able to watch 1 channel "live" during the overlap of 2 record set shows, when, say, 1 ends at 9PM while the next begins at 9PM. This causes both tuners to be locked up from 8:59 to 9:02, leaving no view tuner available. All other dual tuner DVR boxes don't seem to have this problem.
If anyone has any info on fixes in the new software, other than the change of the user interface, please let us know :)

FIX: Verizon/FiOS should stop trying to reinvent the wheel and sign-up Tivo.

FIX: Verizon/FiOS should stop trying to reinvent the wheel and sign-up Tivo.
I don't need another bump in my monthly bill... I've heard that CC will charge an extra $10 to enable the TiVo option on their DVR. And very likely that will be per-box.

I don't need another bump in my monthly bill... I've heard that CC will charge an extra $10 to enable the TiVo option on their DVR. And very likely that will be per-box.

1. You get what you pay for: You pay cheap and you get cheap. Right now, my FiOS TV operation is not as it should be. I didn't have any of these problems when I had D*. I swapped mainly because of the effects of the environment on my reception. Satellite/OTA reception is not reliable in my area. And no, I did not have a "tree problem".
2. Economies of scale would reduce any additional cost.
3. Didn't CC fire all its senior sales force to save money? Yeah, that's a great business plan. :rolleyes:

I think he means Comcast not Circuit City.

Freeze-ups, slowness, complicated, lack of standard features found in Tivo. Ugh! Right now, I miss my D* HD-DVR-Tivo. Hopefully, 2.0 will solve these problems.

Had FiOS since early Feb and haven't had any of these problems on 2 DVRs. I had DirecTv for many years with the real Tivo and, frankly, the FiOS DVR is a lot closer to that than Cablevision was. Agree, no tuner swap, but for me that's not a big deal.

It operates as it should, records what it is supposed to and I can find what I need.

I think he means Comcast not Circuit City.

Thanks for the clarification. That makes more sense.

Repost...

I hope customers in PA / DE / S. Jersey are complaining regularly to Verizon about the recent degradation in picture quality on their high-definition channels.

Some equipment recently failed at the video hub (VHO) serving that region, which significantly reduced the bandwidth Verizon had available to transmit video to local markets in those areas. Verizon apparently compensated by substantially increasing the compression on many of their SD and HDTV channels. Customers in PA / DE / S. Jersey should make it clear to Verizon that they will not tolerate such reduced quality on their high-def channels.

Has anyone else had problems w/ 199 - something like Soundtrack. I never get a picture or sound anymore, but it still shows up in the guide listing programs.

Thanks.

Has anyone else had problems w/ 199 - something like Soundtrack. I never get a picture or sound anymore, but it still shows up in the guide listing programs.

Thanks.
If you look at the description of the program(at least in my area) it says something to the effect of technical diffiulties at the Soundtrack Channel, etc.

Repost...

I hope customers in PA / DE / S. Jersey are complaining regularly to Verizon about the recent degradation in picture quality on their high-definition channels.

Some equipment recently failed at the video hub (VHO) serving that region, which significantly reduced the bandwidth Verizon had available to transmit video to local markets in those areas. Verizon apparently compensated by substantially increasing the compression on many of their SD and HDTV channels. Customers in PA / DE / S. Jersey should make it clear to Verizon that they will not tolerate such reduced quality on their high-def channels.

Any details on the exact areas that are affected? Is Mercer county in NJ (it is considered 'central jersey' by some 'south jersey' by others). I have noticed some more pixelation from time to time, which I am not happy about, but the overall PQ doesnt seem to be changed.

First, Tivo didn't invent the DVR they (arguably) made it better.
Second, why would anyone want to have one company for DVRs, competition is good.
Third, Tivo charges way to much for their oversimplified DVR UI/OS (see point 2).


FIX: Verizon/FiOS should stop trying to reinvent the wheel and sign-up Tivo.

I'm scheduled to get FIOS TV next month (had internet for a couple of years) and would like to know if there is a listing anywhere of what channels are available without their box. I'm getting three boxes, but would like to hook up the coax straight to my slingbox so I don't have to mess with what the rest of the family is watching when I'm on the road.

Thanks,
Joe

I'm scheduled to get FIOS TV next month (had internet for a couple of years) and would like to know if there is a listing anywhere of what channels are available without their box. I'm getting three boxes, but would like to hook up the coax straight to my slingbox so I don't have to mess with what the rest of the family is watching when I'm on the road.
Look up the Verizon Fios channel line- up here: http://www22.verizon.com/content/fiostv/channel+lineup/channel+lineup.htm. You can save and print out a PDF file for your area.

As for the Slingbox, does that have a digital QAM tuner? I have not kept up on them. Only the local broadcast and access channels in the channel 2 to 49 set are available in analog. All other channels are digital. Verizon does leave the local HD and SD digital stations in the clear, so a QAM tuner can access those channels without requiring a cable card.

Thanks for the reply - that explains the different answers I found on the Verizon site. One spot mentioned only locals without a box, and the other mentioned all channels except premiums, but that's obviously with a QAM tuner. Unfortunately, the sling box (at least my version) doesn't have a QAM tuner, but I can hook up the coax directly to the box for locals plus use the passthrough from their box into another input and at least have the locals to fall back on if the family has a conflict.

Joe

I posted this in the Philly forum and DSL Reports, but thought it would be useful here. HDNet broadcasts test patterns about once a week for the purpose of calibrating your display. What I plan to do is to record the "show" on my DVR and save it for whenever I need a display calibration. Next scheduled broadcast is this Sunday, 6:50 AM EDT. Will setup the DVR as soon as it rolls onto the program guide. http://www.hd.net/originals.html Sun., Jun. 3rd 6:50 AM ET HDNet Test Patterns - Wonder how your home theatre is doing? Wish you had test patterns to help set it up? Well, HDNet is here to help. This short program will help you get the most out of your home theatre setup by providing you with the same professional test patterns HDNet uses to set their gear. Just in time to get ready for the HDNet live coverage of the NASA space shuttle launch on June 8th, 7:37 PM (current status).

Update: It's listed in the program guide as "Off Air" - transmitter down time and maintenance. No clue why, since the web site has a nice description for it.

First, Tivo didn't invent the DVR they (arguably) made it better.
Second, why would anyone want to have one company for DVRs, competition is good.
Third, Tivo charges way to much for their oversimplified DVR UI/OS (see point 2).

When the world talks about recording last night's TV, they say "I Tivo'd it". Like Kleenex and Xerox and Q-Tips, it has become the 'Gold Standard' of its kind.

The improved functionality of a Tivo isn't worth even a fraction of the the astronomically higher price, especially when it comes to the HD Tivo.

I posted this in the Philly forum and DSL Reports, but thought it would be useful here. HDNet broadcasts test patterns about once a week ...

GeekGirl, Thanks for the pointer to the HDNet test pattern and the heads up on the shuttle launch as well.

I had a Verizon Rep tell me the Boston area would be getting the new guide on Friday June 1st.

Well hopefully this does get rolled out tonight, (not holding my breath), although if it does my ass will probably be glued to the couch all weekend and I'll get nothing accomplished. :)

Has the new guide shown up anwhere other than Fort Wayne, Indiana?

as expected, no new guide here in MA, unless they plan on rolling it out tonight, which I doubt. They need to either give some solid framework to their roll out time frames, or just not hint at them at all giving people false expectations

It just goes to show what looser geeks we are that the highlight of our week will be the arrival of a new TV media guide.

and proud of it

Why is it that 99% of the movies on FIOS are rated two stars? It bothered me initially when I switched from Dish but I had gotten used to it. Then I watched Charter Communications programming recently and was shocked by the variety of ratings.

On FIOS:

Casablanca -- Two Stars
Bridge on the River Kwai - Two Stars
Citizen Kane - Two Stars
Lawrence of Arabia - Two Stars
Scream - Two Stars

Is Verizon cutting costs by not paying for a rating service? Will this change with version 2?

I just got FIOS in Columbia, Md. I have the HD DVR. Is there any way to "set" things like aspect ratio? I have a 100" projector and the widescreen images seem kinda stretched out to me.

I just got FIOS in Columbia, Md. I have the HD DVR. Is there any way to "set" things like aspect ratio? I have a 100" projector and the widescreen images seem kinda stretched out to me.

If you mean the reguar channels look stretched then with the remote power off the DVR and press menu, change the 4:3 override to where you would like it to be. Press menu again and then power to bring it back on.

If you mean the reguar channels look stretched then with the remote power off the DVR and press menu, change the 4:3 override to where you would like it to be. Press menu again and then power to bring it back on.

Thanks, I'll do that. To be honest, when I was watching the NBA on high def last night the picture looked a little squished to me ....

Does anyone know or have any speculation on whether Verizon will be adding more national channels this year? DirecTV is claiming a very aggressive schedule publicly for their new channels. (I'll believe that when I see it). I hope Verizon will be able to add most of those channels that D* will with all that fiber bandwidth available.

Looks like Verizon & the cable companies will be adding about all the same channels as D*.

When the world talks about recording last night's TV, they say "I Tivo'd it". Like Kleenex and Xerox and Q-Tips, it has become the 'Gold Standard' of its kind.
Ironically, companies hate when people use their product's name interchangeably like that.

Ironically, companies hate when people use their product's name interchangeably like that.

Unless you ARE the company! :D

No, they hate it the most. If "tivo" becomes generic, then Tivo the company can no longer trademark it. Then every DVR can be labeled a tivo and Tivo the company is dead in the water.

Companies like Coca-Cola have employees and lawyers policing the country everyday making sure that when they go in a restaurant and order a Coke they don't get a Pepsi or some other cola. Ever wonder why when you go in a restaurant and order a Coke and they say "We have Pepsi, is that okay?" It's because if they don't and the guy ordering the Coke is a Coke employee, he's going to threaten to sue your ass for breach of contract.

Anyway, back on topic, weren't HGTV, Food, and Lifetime typically rolled out late Friday nights in several areas? Or was it Thursday night into Friday morning?

Why is it that 99% of the movies on FIOS are rated two stars? It bothered me initially when I switched from Dish but I had gotten used to it. Then I watched Charter Communications programming recently and was shocked by the variety of ratings.
What, don't you realize that all movies are just as good? :D If they are going to put up 2 stars for almost all movies, why even bother? But when I was on Comcast and then Adelphia, I could never figure out the ratings. Some classic movies would get 3 stars, some movies not as highly regarded would get four. Since ratings are subjective, maybe they should not bother. Just show the title, the year the movie was made, the plot summary, and the leads. If you want to find out if the movie is any good, watch it or look it up on the net.

In my Comcast guide, Date Movie on HBO is given one star, but the description calls it "hilarious". That kind of thing happens a lot. The description is almost always positive. Possibly supplied by the studio.

Looks like Verizon & the cable companies will be adding about all the same channels as D*.But when??? DirecTV is giving some kind of timetable but no one else is...

But when??? DirecTV is giving some kind of timetable but no one else is...

Whatever D* is going to do, however many additional HD channels they'll add, it will all be irrelevant if the picture quality gap remains as large it currently is. ;)

Has anyone noticed that the programming guide for Universal HD is not even close...
new to thread...Says Movies all day... but according Uni HD website normal scheduling etc.

Has anyone noticed that the programming guide for Universal HD is not even close...
new to thread...Says Movies all day... but according Uni HD webdsite normal scheduling etc.
Yes, I have noticed that The Verizon Fios guide has Monk on at 9 PM ET Saturday while the UniversalHD website shows Battlestar Galactica which has been airing in this time slot for months. A lot of people are going to miss the DVR recording for BSG.

Yes, I have noticed that The Verizon Fios guide has Monk on at 9 PM ET Saturday while the UniversalHD website shows Battlestar Galactica which has been airing in this time slot for months. A lot of people are going to miss the DVR recording for BSG.
Yes and they will be pissed because it is part I of the season finale...I noticed my series recording has it showing up tomorrow at 9 ET, seems like the guide might be a day off...heheh thats a new one!

Whatever D* is going to do, however many additional HD channels they'll add, it will all be irrelevant if the picture quality gap remains as large it currently is. ;)

I agree to an extent, but if D* has 20 more HD channels than FIOS nationally and even if they're HD-lite, I would still be tempted to go back to D*. I would take SCIFI, History channel and others in HD-Lite over watching standard def. Why doesn't Verizon respond to D* announcement is the real question. Why let your competitor potentially steal away customers because you are keeping your new channels a surprise.? I have a concern that maybe D* has exclusives with some of those channels. I hope that's not the case but I'm under pressure from the wife to switch back to D* so she can see her soap, Passions, which is a D* non-HD exclusive in the fall. More channels on D* would make the decision a cinch for me.

Why doesn't Verizon respond to D* announcement is the real question.Why does DirecTV announce so many months in advance? is a better question. And the answer is that their offering right now is trash. They're trying to hold on to existing customers with promises. But it would be a foolish to switch to them now on that basis. There's no advantage; you'd only be penalizing yourself. Wait for the reality, if it materializes.

Whatever D* is going to do, however many additional HD channels they'll add, it will all be irrelevant if the picture quality gap remains as large it currently is. ;)

I agree.

I agree to an extent, but if D* has 20 more HD channels than FIOS nationally and even if they're HD-lite, I would still be tempted to go back to D*. I would take SCIFI, History channel and others in HD-Lite over watching standard def. Why doesn't Verizon respond to D* announcement is the real question. Why let your competitor potentially steal away customers because you are keeping your new channels a surprise.? I have a concern that maybe D* has exclusives with some of those channels. I hope that's not the case but I'm under pressure from the wife to switch back to D* so she can see her soap, Passions, which is a D* non-HD exclusive in the fall. More channels on D* would make the decision a cinch for me.
The new HD national channels will on the two new yet to be launched satellites with mpeg-4 encoding. Since they are supposed to handle 75 national HD channels on each satellite, D* subscribers probably won't see HD-lite on the new satellites until they decide to squeeze more than 150 national HD channels on the 2 satellites. But until the sats are launched, get to the correct orbit & everything works, and people get the new HD channels, it is all speculation.

I do agree with the concern on the possibility that D* has tied up some of the new national HD channels with exclusive contracts. D* certainly aggressively pursues this with the sports networks. I can see D* getting some of the smaller cable nets to sign an exclusive agreement in return for funds or advertising time to help cover the cost of the HD equipment.

The big question is how long will it take for Verizon to add the new HD channels. They took their time with adding the last 3 and there has been no news on when they might add the existing HD channels such as A&E-HD and Golf/Versus HD. While D* has started up a publicity bliz on the new HD channels, Verizon has said nothing at all. If they really do have the bandwidth, they should be putting out a press release about all the HD channel Fios will have this fall.

I want to let somebody at verizon know I won't hesitate to jump back to D* if V* doesn't step up, just as I dumped D* earlier this year. I just can't find a contact anywhere.

I want to let somebody at verizon know I won't hesitate to jump back to D* if V* doesn't step up, just as I dumped D* earlier this year. I just can't find a contact anywhere.Read through this thread on DSL Reports - http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,18396566

Someone is obsessed with getting MSNBC and lists out various contact info so others can call and complain.

This whole line of talk about Directv's 150 HD channels is silly.
For one thing they haven't even launched the satellites yet that would allow them to put that many channels on their service. Until they're online, I consider them vaporware.

Also, the concern that some of these cable channels would make an exclusive deal with Directv is preposterous. Why limit your channel to a fraction of the potential marketplace by only being available on Directv? It simply won't happen and might violate anti-trust laws in some cases if it did happen.

There are two reasons I would never consider sat tv: picture quality and loss of picture in rainy weather. There's no question the picture quality on sat tv is better than analog cable, but sat tv does not match the quality I get on Fios. In rainy weather I've never had a problem losing a picture with either cable or FIOS, but I've been to plenty of homes where the slightest little rain shower causes the sat tv picture to go away completely. No thanks.

Verizon is doing a lot to upgrade and expand their service right now. (adding cities, upgrading the program guide, adding local hd sports channels, etc) I'm happy with what I've got now and can't see any reason to switch to an inferior service like sat tv.

it's not just the capacity, D* have signed the deals.

V* has plenty of capacity bur they have given no sign of having inked any deal. and remember how long it took food and hgtv to actually show up even though they'd had the deal in place for a long time. that's what worries me.

btw, does anyone know what V* actual capacity is? I know they have plenty, but an estimate number would be what?

it's not just the capacity, D* have signed the deals.

V* has plenty of capacity bur they have given no sign of having inked any deal. and remember how long it took food and hgtv to actually show up even though they'd had the deal in place for a long time. that's what worries me.

btw, does anyone know what V* actual capacity is? I know they have plenty, but an estimate number would be what?

AFAIK - 622 Mbit downstream @ 1490 nm, 155 Mbit upstream @ 1310 nm. I don't know the video / data split currently used. Based on the ITU-T G.983 standard for Broadband passive optical network (BPON).

Also, the concern that some of these cable channels would make an exclusive deal with Directv is preposterous. Why limit your channel to a fraction of the potential marketplace by only being available on Directv? It simply won't happen and might violate anti-trust laws in some cases if it did happen.
I wouldn't be so sure about this. DirecTV is the exclusive home to NFL Sunday Ticket. And they were "this" close to being the only provider of MLB Extra Innings ... it took Congress getting involved (sort of) to prevent MLB from going direct with DirecTV.

While it would seem logical to want your channel on as many providers as possible, there are some other factors involved that can lead to "exclusive" deals. I could imagine that a particular provider could offer a large financial incentive to a certain channel to give customers a reason to want to switch/stay with that provider.

I can't speak about anti-trust deals, but I gotta believe that it wouldn't apply. Shouldn't a broadcast company be able to decide who can broadcast their content? Suppose I have a movie channel and I only want it on providers who use fiber optic because I want to be sure that my subscribers get full quality. Shouldn't I have that option?

ft

btw, does anyone know what V* actual capacity is? I know they have plenty, but an estimate number would be what?AFAIK - 622 Mbit downstream @ 1490 nm, 155 Mbit upstream @ 1310 nm. I don't know the video / data split currently used. Based on the ITU-T G.983 standard for Broadband passive optical network (BPON).For linear TV channels, Verizon is (currently) using 860MHz RF Overlay @ 1550nm.

The 1490nm / 1310nm wavelengths are used for everything else (voice, data, VOD, IP data for widgets and the like, perhaps guide and authorization messages ... not sure on that). But all the broadcast linear TV channels are (currently) carried via 860MHz RF Overlay @ 1550nm ... "It's true QAM" :rolleyes:

On a much ...much ...much lighter note...
The actual info/reviews in the guide are really pretty poor...not that I rely on them for much...but every movie is like 2 stars (classics...trash)...and some of the info is hilariously wrong...Like the Director for Blade Runner was credited as .... get this... Daryl Hannah...I actually chuckled out loud!

Seriously now folks do a little QC on the info

Suppose I have a movie channel and I only want it on providers who use fiber optic because I want to be sure that my subscribers get full quality. Shouldn't I have that option?

ft

Can you imagine if all providers felt that way about picture quality...there would be no channels on D*! :D

Heads up: NASA Space Shuttle in HD on HDNet scheduled for this Friday. Time change to 6 PM. Weather permitting, etc. http://www.hd.net/originals.html

LIVE! Fri., Jun. 8th 6:00 PM ET NASA on HDNet - Space Shuttle Atlantis STS-117 Launch - The seven astronauts aboard Atlantis will deliver a second starboard truss segment and a third set of solar arrays and batteries during the Space Shuttle Program's 21st mission to the International Space Station. HDNet will present the live launch of STS-117, as well as the other significant events of launch day as part of its exclusive partnership with NASA.

Can you imagine if all providers felt that way about picture quality...there would be no channels on D*! :D
You said it, not me. :D

Did anyone get the new guide today?

Did anyone get the new guide today?

Same old guide in DC/Maryland...

Thanks for the reply - that explains the different answers I found on the Verizon site. One spot mentioned only locals without a box, and the other mentioned all channels except premiums, but that's obviously with a QAM tuner. Unfortunately, the sling box (at least my version) doesn't have a QAM tuner, but I can hook up the coax directly to the box for locals plus use the passthrough from their box into another input and at least have the locals to fall back on if the family has a conflict.

Joe

My Sharp LCD TV has a QAM tuner and it found all the SD Local stations from 4 to 49 and indicated Analog.


Then it started finding a BUNCH of stations yet they had odd channel numbers like 66.1 through 66.8 and the TV indicated that these were Digital stations.

None of them were high def though.

I was thinking of buying a QAM tuner card like Hauppage makes for the PC but now I am completely mixed up as to what the deal with QAM stations are with Verizon.

Any ideas would be most welcome.

My Sharp LCD TV has a QAM tuner and it found all the SD Local stations from 4 to 49 and indicated Analog.


Then it started finding a BUNCH of stations yet they had odd channel numbers like 66.1 through 66.8 and the TV indicated that these were Digital stations.

None of them were high def though.

I was thinking of buying a QAM tuner card like Hauppage makes for the PC but now I am completely mixed up as to what the deal with QAM stations are with Verizon.

Any ideas would be most welcome.

I have an LG LCD with QAM tuner and it found all the local HD channels and assigned them properly. None of the other HD stations that come with my package showed up but the locals did. They looked really good!

Verizon added a bunch of new music channels last night from "URGE Radio" on Channels 647 - 694. Urge is apparently an online network of music channels run by MTV Networks. It's in addition to the Music Choice channels we already get.

I have an LG LCD with QAM tuner and it found all the local HD channels and assigned them properly. None of the other HD stations that come with my package showed up but the locals did. They looked really good!



My Standard Defintion FIOS locals are on Channel 4 through 49.

The reason the list is so long (which includes the 'Local Programming' stations) is that I get both Washington,DC and Baltimore feeds because I live in Anne Arundel County which is right between the two markets.

The HD local channels are channels 801 through 815.
When my Sharp TV scans, it goes from channel 55.1 through 126.3 so I never see those channels.


To show how squirrly this is once the Sharp says 'scanning for Digital', see if you can follow this:

Channels 66.1 through 66.33 on the TV are music channels that are normally on 600 through 646 from the STB.
Fox, which shows up on channel 5 is also on Channel 70.2

I have NO HD channels.

Fox HD and Wnuv HD are the main ones that I want the HD feed off of to record on a PC so I can offload them from the 6416. Those have House/Smallville/Family Guy/etc.

Can you tell me what station numbers are your High def Channels?
You do not see the useless 66.7 type designation?

Joe

The HD local channels are channels 801 through 815.

Can you tell me what station numbers are your High def Channels?
You do not see the useless 66.7 type designation?

Joe


You answered your own question. I don't get it.

You answered your own question. I don't get it.

You don't get it because the question was not directed at you. :rolleyes:

taeboguy said:

"I have an LG LCD with QAM tuner and it found all the local HD channels and assigned them properly. None of the other HD stations that come with my package showed up but the locals did. They looked really good! "

I am trying to figure out if his TV shows the High def channels on the xx.yy type stations as well as the 800 series since my TV does neither.
Verizon FIOS implementation is not the same everywhere

It is not that hard a question!


I have a QAM capable TV and if it sees the HD locals then a QAM capable PC card will also. Before I buy a QAM tuner, I need to know that this is going to work.

As it stands now, I do NOT get the HD locals on my QAM/ATSC TV tuner.

You don't get it because the question was not directed at you. :rolleyes:

taeboguy said:

"I have an LG LCD with QAM tuner and it found all the local HD channels and assigned them properly. None of the other HD stations that come with my package showed up but the locals did. They looked really good! "

I am trying to figure out if his TV shows the High def channels on the xx.yy type stations as well as the 800 series since my TV does neither.
Verizon FIOS implementation is not the same everywhere

It is not that hard a question!


I have a QAM capable TV and if it sees the HD locals then a QAM capable PC card will also. Before I buy a QAM tuner, I need to know that this is going to work.

As it stands now, I do NOT get the HD locals on my QAM/ATSC TV tuner.

My LG works like this: I get the HD channels not in the 800's but mapped to their normal channel number. For example, NBC 4 maps to 4-1 and it HD from Verizon (cause I am not using an antenna). I simply did a channel add with the TV and it scanned NTSC/ATSC and QAM. Then I was able to see the major networks in HD.

Good Luck

I am trying to figure out if his TV shows the High def channels on the xx.yy type stations as well as the 800 series since my TV does neither.
Verizon FIOS implementation is not the same everywhere

It is not that hard a question!

I have a QAM capable TV and if it sees the HD locals then a QAM capable PC card will also. Before I buy a QAM tuner, I need to know that this is going to work.

As it stands now, I do NOT get the HD locals on my QAM/ATSC TV tuner.
Your question is not necessarily a simple one because I have gotten different results with different ATSC/QAM tuners. I expect the problem is with the firmware versions of the different generation tuners and whether they bothered to get all the bugs out of the QAM tuner part of it. Your HD locals are probably there but you have not found them among all the high numbered QAM channels.

I hooked up three different ATSC/QAM tuners to Verizon Fios Washington Metro area back in March as an experiment. The Sony DHG-HDD250 and Samsung DTB-H260F found and mapped the digital locals to the broadcast channel numbers: 4-1, 4-2, 5-1, 7-1, 26-1 and so on. The older Samsung SIR-T451 did not map the HD locals. I found them at channels such as 73-1, 74-2, 74-3 with a lot of channel surfing. The digital copy of the analog locals - government, public access - and the SD copy of HD digital channels and so on were located as sub-channels on 63, 65, 66, 67, 68. I only investigated the channels found with the 2 Samsung tuners, but they both found hundreds of QAM channels, IIRC, most of which were encrypted. The only way to find the unscrambled channels was to step through them one sub-channel at a time and see if a picture came up on the screen.

I don't know if the HD locals have moved or are in a different place for different head ends, but take a look at QAM 63 and up. The HD locals, of course, will NOT show up in the 800s because that is where the Verizon STB remaps them to. I suggest you do a rescan with the LG and do a manual search for the HD locals. Maybe with different settings it will remap the HD locals to the broadcast channel numbers.

Might be interesting to compare HDNet test pattern resolutions between those using FIOS STBs and those using display or PC-card QAM tuners. Someone with a FIOS STB recently reported (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=10710973&&#post10710973) measuring 1333 lines maximum effective resolution from HDNet's Tuesday 6:50 am (ET) patterns (after DVRing them). Two posts earlier above that link a conversion technique (sublink) outlines how to convert HDNet's resolution-wedge numbers into effective resolution/16:9 picture width.

If resolutions are significantly higher for those using their own QAM tuners, that suggests FIOS STBs are limiting FIOS resolution. (~1300 lines is typical, from AVS posts, from many standard cable system STBs, although [see link] there's one report of ~1920 lines.) -- John

... btw, does anyone know what V* actual capacity is? I know they have plenty, but an estimate number would be what?

from what i heard from a technician B-PON FTTP can handle 244 HD channels and G-PON FTTP (http://newscenter.verizon.com/press-releases/verizon/2007/verizon-to-begin-deployment.html) ??? but i could be mistaken.

John, I had posted in another thread that I don't put much stock in many of these measurements by individuals. There are simply too many variables to pin a given number on the source provider. Having read many reviews of displays that were 'supposed' to have been capable of 1920X1080 but are, in actuality, capable of far less, I am suspect of some measurements.

That plus the additional problematic areas such as display calibration, STB capability and variability and cabling, the individual's own visual acuity and on and on, we have a number that many times is next to meaningless.

I switched from D* to FIOS and I can tell you with 100% certainty that on my 50" Fujitsu plasma, detail, macroblocking and color quality is much improved in both HD & SD. I also had a better 2nd reference point with Cablevision's I/O digital service and even there the FIOS HD was slightly better and the SD was significantly better.

So to be honest, I put more stock in subjective evaluations as opposed to the numerous reports we receive of 'absolute measurements'. The one 'absolute measurement' I would trust much more is that of someone that did these assessments and changed only service providers. There at least we may be limiting the variability to just the STB and obviously the service provider. But I would say that anyone that has switched from D* to FIOS and doesn't see a definite improvement in resolution numbers...well, something is wrong. :)

I called Verizon yesterday regarding my bill and the CR said "you know TV is now available in Warwick". She said they aren't doing any installations until June 20th. I have an install date of June 21st. Getting the $99 package (internet, telephone & TV), plus 2 DVRs and HBO. I'm not happy with the higher cost of the DVRs and HBO (compared with Cox)but at least I am locked in with the present DVR fee which is going up next month.

Looking forward to a much better channel lineup and especially better HD PQ.

Thank you taeboguy and afiggatt

This is the info I am looking for.

afiggatt's research was very interesting.
I do have a lot of Tuners.

1) My TV is the new model Sharp 52" LCD (LC52D92U) which,from the serial number, was built in January 20097. One would expect that it would have the the most compliant tuner and behave like taeboguy's LG did.


2) My HTPC (running XP and hooked to the Sharp at 1080P) has a MYHD card which will tune to Cable BUT it is a model 120 ( added DVI output) and I would need a model 130 to get a QAM compliant cable tuner in it.
The MYHD model 120 only finds the Analog channels from 4 through 40

The entire MYHD line of products were really designed for ATSC OTA reception so it's Analog handling leaves much to be desired ie. Don't use it for anything analogue


3) I have a Hauppage WinTV-HVR-1600 MC model 1101 that came with the Vista machine I bought in January.
It works great for both Analog and Digital sources since it supports 3 different inputs but I have serious multipath issues and my OTA digital Fox station is the worst of aLL MY stations so I can not rely on it for recording.

It also does not find any local HD channels on the FIOS cable as I think this is related:
There is some limitation to the QAM tuner in the Hauppage 1600 version that I have:
From their website http://www.hauppauge.com/pages/products/data_hvr1600.html

Digital QAM features :
If you are using digital cable which broadcast the local ATSC channels, you can receive these QAM channels with the new WinTV v6 application. QAM is only supported on product codes 74021 and 74041 (found on the tuner label).
Note: not all cable TV networks send clear QAM channels

My product code is 74551 - the wrong one

4) I have a 50" 720P Zenith Plasma (The Sharp replaced it) that I am either going to hang in the guest bedroom OR sell it.
It is basically an LG so I am tempted to run some antenna wire to where it is stored and see what it does.



In case folks have forgotten what this is all about,
The whole point of this exercise is to see if I can get some High def local channels from the Verizon FIOS signal.
This is so I can make another PVR for the local HD stuff like House MD/Smallville/etc. since My Verizon 6416 DVR is always sitting at 90% used.

So far, not one of my tuners is able to get any local Cable HD channels (except #4 as I have not tried it yet).

In playing around with SAGE and the WinTV-HVR-1600 , this would make a GREAT PVR if I could get the darn cable HD locals.

I am going to try out afiggatt's idea with my Sharp and if successfuly, I will buy the proper model of the Hapuupage tuner.



BTW, I recently got a DVD recorder made for STB's and I have it daily recording the soaps that my wife likes as well as letting me dump recordings on the 6416 to free up disk space.
My now idle Directv HDTIVO did this duty and that one let me yank the shows out over the network if it started filling up.

Thanks for your patience and help.

John, I had posted in another thread that I don't put much stock in many of these measurements by individuals. There are simply too many variables to pin a given number on the source provider. Having read many reviews of displays that were 'supposed' to have been capable of 1920X1080 but are, in actuality, capable of far less, I am suspect of some measurements.

That plus the additional problematic areas such as display calibration, STB capability and variability and cabling, the individual's own visual acuity and on and on, we have a number that many times is next to meaningless.
Among the many reviews I scan of 1080p displays, very few can't resolve 1920 from test patterns. Clearly a precise number such as 1333 provided by one FIOS user with a 1080p set has some 'wiggle room' since interpreting the line merge point is a matter of judgement. But, unless readings are grossly in error, readings shouldn't vary in + or - 100s of lines per picture width. For example, that 1333 reading wouldn't be 1400-1450. As I mentioned, so far only one AVSer has reported ~1920 lines compared to many reporting ~1300 lines, so that's something to consider.

So to be honest, I put more stock in subjective evaluations as opposed to the numerous reports we receive of 'absolute measurements'. The one 'absolute measurement' I would trust much more is that of someone that did these assessments and changed only service providers. There at least we may be limiting the variability to just the STB and obviously the service provider. But I would say that anyone that has switched from D* to FIOS and doesn't see a definite improvement in resolution numbers...well, something is wrong. :)
Yes, subjective evaluations are much more fun and let you employ all kinds of delicious adjectives--endlessly. :). What would audio/video boards be without them !? A maximum effective horizontal or vertical resolution measurement is certainly definitive, but shouldn't hinder further description of displays or signal sources. They're just one element. In my case, I did change service providers once and got an HDNet max rez reading of 1335 from one and 1280 from the other with different STBs. But despite cable, STB, display, and individual vision variables, these HDNet readings should be very straight forward. So...as I await the ability to switch from TWC to Verizon in mid-town Manhattan, it would still be nice to see more HDNet readings from Verizon users--especially comparing STB users and owned-QAM-tuner users. -- John

. But I would say that anyone that has switched from D* to FIOS and doesn't see a definite improvement in resolution numbers...well, something is wrong. :)


I could not agree more. I switched to FIOS 2 weeks ago after being with Directv for 10 years and am SO,SO happy with the dramatic improvement in Picture Quality.

Both SD and HD are much,much better. SCIFI channel has never looked this good.

That is the subjective measurement you were referring to.

As far as objective measurements go, the data says it all.

With my Directv HDTIVO, over my network, I was able to yank shows from it and run Tsreader and Videoredo on them (as well as watch the show,of course).
The resolution and bit rates told the whole picture as to why it was called 'HD Lite'.

Here is 'Firefly' on UHD on Directv:
UHD Universal HD 1280x1080 13 mbps (98%)




With the Fios 6416 DVR, I am able to pull shows over firewire to my PC.
The ones that do not have the 5C flag set can be analyized by Tsreader and VideoRedo.
I have been compiling a spreadsheet for each channel (I will be able to get them all next week when my JVC D-VHS is delivered due to the 5C business) with the results from Tsreader as well as subjective comments and such .

Here are two from FIOS that says it all about PQ:

NGCHD National Geographic Channel HD - a Bit soft looking 1280x720 17.5mbps (97%)
MTVHD Music: NOT the Beavis & Buthead station! Aamazing PQ,On a par with Blu Ray/HDDVD 1920x1080 19mbps (98%)


The last time I ever saw 1080i from any Satellite Station was many years ago when I had the DISH 5000 and could record from HBOHD. That was before DISH started to downrezz their signal around the same ti,e that Directv did.

That 1080i broadcast on DISH was the Springsteen Concert which I have 2 backup copies on Dat tapes.



Tsreader gives the various bit rates that it finds and the % of the data that contains that data rate. Something to do with VBR.

The TV that I am watching these on is the 1080P 52" Sharp LCD which I calibrated with the High def version oif Digial Video essentials.
The resolution test pattern made me VERY happy with my TV.



Joe

The TV that I am watching these on is the 1080P 52" Sharp LCD which I calibrated with the High def version oif Digial Video essentials.
The resolution test pattern made me VERY happy with my TV.

Interesting additional info on FIOS and makes me eager to try it out ASAP. Since you've measured display resolution--presumably 1080p--with DVE's test patterns, wonder if HDNet's resolution wedges provide the same? That would be a merge point (lines completely blurred) between 10 and 11 of the vertical wedges, or 10.78X100X16/9 = ~1920 lines. This would be most useful confirming HDNet is still putting out resolvable 1920X1080 patterns, as reviewer Gary Merson found several years ago testing the first 1080p RPTV, using DirectTV (pre-HD Lite). -- John

Here is 'Firefly' on UHD on Directv:
UHD Universal HD 1280x1080 13 mbps (98%)

With the Fios 6416 DVR, I am able to pull shows over firewire to my PC.
The ones that do not have the 5C flag set can be analyized by Tsreader and VideoRedo.
I have been compiling a spreadsheet for each channel (I will be able to get them all next week when my JVC D-VHS is delivered due to the 5C business) with the results from Tsreader as well as subjective comments and such .

Here are two from FIOS that says it all about PQ:

NGCHD National Geographic Channel HD - a Bit soft looking 1280x720 17.5mbps (97%)
MTVHD Music: NOT the Beavis & Buthead station! Aamazing PQ,On a par with Blu Ray/HDDVD 1920x1080 19mbps (98%)


Joe

Well there's another data point for John. Yes, I'd be surprised if FIOS were not passing the full resolution of the source. Their bit rates are considerably higher than D*'s too which is why we see far less macroblocking and other picture artifacts. Switching to FIOS is kind of like significantly upgrading your display device! :)

Of course with that said, I do agree we don't know whether the STB is a limiting factor. I've got 4 FIOS HD receivers, two of which are PVRs. The interesting thing is that one of those 2 PVRs is the Tivo S3. Since I don't have a full 1080p plasma, I don't detect much, if any, difference in overall picture quality between the FIOS PVR and the Tivo S3. What I can say is the Tivo S3 is far better in the picture quality department than the D* Tivo was.

For what it's worth, I found a new HD channel that Verizon has signed up to add when it becomes available in 2008: Sí TV-HD Here's the story: http://www.multichannel.com/article/CA6448962.html

Well there's another data point for John.
Measured effective resolution with resolution wedges (HDNet) or burst patterns, not format resolution or broad estimates of PQ, are what's needed.
Of course with that said, I do agree we don't know whether the STB is a limiting factor. I've got 4 FIOS HD receivers, two of which are PVRs. The interesting thing is that one of those 2 PVRs is the Tivo S3. Since I don't have a full 1080p plasma, I don't detect much, if any, difference in overall picture quality between the FIOS PVR and the Tivo S3. What I can say is the Tivo S3 is far better in the picture quality department than the D* Tivo was.
A 1080p or equal display is only needed if HDNet puts out resolvable 1920X1080i (satellite uplink/downlink) and you want to confirm your HDNet delivery source (FIOS), tuner, and display aren't limiting full resolvability. There's at least one report (linked above) of 1333-line effective resolution from HDNet via FIOS with a 1080p. So a plasma display with, say, 1366X768 pixel resolution should resolve ~1333, (also assuming FIOS head ends don't vary greatly in PQ). Since DirecTV's reformatting to 1280X1080i (not MPEG-4 channels) lops off any resolvable detail >1280, FIOS picture quality certainly should be better !

Chipped in $.02 worth earlier today in this post (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=10751818&&#post10751818) about, theoretically, how FIOS might be delivering ~1300 lines static effective resolution from HDNet while at the same time be providing superior motion-video PQ compared to other sources. -- John

Interesting additional info on FIOS and makes me eager to try it out ASAP. Since you've measured display resolution--presumably 1080p--with DVE's test patterns, wonder if HDNet's resolution wedges provide the same? That would be a merge point (lines completely blurred) between 10 and 11 of the vertical wedges, or 10.78X100X16/9 = ~1920 lines. This would be most useful confirming HDNet is still putting out resolvable 1920X1080 patterns, as reviewer Gary Merson found several years ago testing the first 1080p RPTV, using DirectTV (pre-HD Lite). -- John


John,
I have not played the HDNET test pattern on my Sharp TV.
I do keep a copy of it on my PC as well as a DVD since I will never be able to get material off of my HDTIVO since I have canceled with Directv account.


Since the Test Pattern is NOT full resolution like DVE is, I didn't see that it would provide any valid comparisons.

Here are the Tsreader results (which I just did a few minutes ago) from the HDNET test pattern file that I pulled from my HDTIVO quite a few months ago.
Resolution 1280 x 1088i
Chroma Format 4:2:0
96.73% - 13.41 Mbps

So you see, runnning a Test Pattern with less than stellar bitrate video that is only 1280 x 1080 into a 1920x1080 TV (my Sharp) seems like a waste of time.

I have owned the HDTIVO since the day it came out and The interesting thing is that several years back, I had made a copy of that Test Pattern.
HDNET was at full data rate (19 mbps) and resolution (1920x1080).
I just do not have accurate dates to be able to precisely say when Directv flipped the switch to 'HD Lite'


I think you know this already but I had forgotten to mention that ALL the video from Directv has an extra 8 lines in it's resolution number. I recall that it is where the Close caption info is kept. I am sure I will be corrected if wrong:)

Measured effective resolution with resolution wedges (HDNet) or burst patterns, not format resolution or broad estimates of PQ, are what's needed.

A 1080p or equal display is only needed if HDNet puts out resolvable 1920X1080i (satellite uplink/downlink) and you want to confirm your HDNet delivery source (FIOS), tuner, and display aren't limiting full resolvability. There's at least one report (linked above) of 1333-line effective resolution from HDNet via FIOS with a 1080p. So a plasma display with, say, 1366X768 pixel resolution should resolve ~1333, (also assuming FIOS head ends don't vary greatly in PQ). Since DirecTV's reformatting to 1280X1080i (not MPEG-4 channels) lops off any resolvable detail >1280, FIOS picture quality certainly should be better !

Chipped in $.02 worth earlier today in this post (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=10751818&&#post10751818) about, theoretically, how FIOS might be delivering ~1300 lines static effective resolution from HDNet while at the same time be providing superior motion-video PQ compared to other sources. -- John

John, as another 'subjective' data point, I'll mention again that the FIOS HD picture also has superior detail to Cablevision's digital I/O service. The disparity is not nearly as great as it between D* and FIOS, but the disparity still exists.

The other issue is that even with a 1080p display, how would we know which issue is the limiting factor for measured resolution less than a full 1920? It could be HDNet itself, the box, FIOS or the display. So the bottom line is our results would still be rather murky. Having several data points from people who have both the Tivo S3 and the FIOS PVR could help provide some insight into the STB issue. Different data points from varying 1080p displays could help on that end. However we would still be unsure what's happening on HDNet's end vs. FIOS.

Joe, can you get the rez measurements from the HDNet test pattern via FIOS? I guess we'd still never know if any limitation is on HDNet's end or the FIOS end. Again, I'd be surprised if FIOS is not passing the full resolution.

Joe, can you get the rez measurements from the HDNet test pattern via FIOS? I guess we'd still never know if any limitation is on HDNet's end or the FIOS end. Again, I'd be surprised if FIOS is not passing the full resolution.

On Verizon's system, HDNET has the 5C flag set so I can not get an unencrypted recording over firewire - YET.

The data from FIOS that I posted were from 2 channels that are unencrypted.
I am building a spreadsheet with all the info about 5C encrypted channels. You can see it here:
http://southriver.web.aplus.net/

Look for the link that says: Verizon FIOS 5c Testing


I know I am long winded:) but here are the details of what I am talking about.

Anyone can record from the Verizon STB if you have an XP PC with a firewire connection. There is a great 'HOW TO' in the Recorder Forum.

The system will merilly record what is 'on the wire' whether it is 5C or not.
The only thing is that the data recorded onto your PC from 5C enabled recordings is useless because the encryption keys are not passed to non 5C compliant devices such as the PC.



I have a Mits Model 20K Firewire D-VHS that I have had for a number of years but it does not have an mpeg 2 decoder so it can not play back without a decoder (it suited me fine for the MYHD PC card application at the time)


I bought a JVC D-VHS on ebay last week and it will be at my house tomorrow or the next day.

This is key because the JVC is 5C compliant and HAS an mpeg2 decoder so I will be able to playback the Mits recordings into the JVC and get a picture.

The whole intent of this was to be able to offload programming to D-VHS tapes and Disk due to the dinky disk on the 6416 which is exacerbated by the fact that the data is so much less compressed,compared to Directv, that it really fills up fast.



There is a new version of tsreader that lets you read from a D-VHS as well as Files so I am merrily on my way.
I have been trying out on my Mits Deck with great success. For NON 5C material obviioiusly.




The bottom line to all this is that I hope to be able to give you the HDNET test pattern information next week.

Well there's another data point for John. Yes, I'd be surprised if FIOS were not passing the full resolution of the source. Their bit rates are considerably higher than D*'s too which is why we see far less macroblocking and other picture artifacts. Switching to FIOS is kind of like significantly upgrading your display device! :)

Of course with that said, I do agree we don't know whether the STB is a limiting factor. I've got 4 FIOS HD receivers, two of which are PVRs. The interesting thing is that one of those 2 PVRs is the Tivo S3. Since I don't have a full 1080p plasma, I don't detect much, if any, difference in overall picture quality between the FIOS PVR and the Tivo S3. What I can say is the Tivo S3 is far better in the picture quality department than the D* Tivo was.

What about the Tivo's reliability? My HR10-250 was always breaking and being replaced with another by D* under their maintenance plan. One of the reasons I went with FiOS. The PQ being the best reason to switch!

Joe Q, great information. I'll be curious to see if you're able to get those rez measurements via your JVC.

Hilltop, so far so good with the S3. Yup, I too had to swap out a D* HD Tivo that failed. Those things were notorious for early demise. Although I still don't like the speed of the S3, it's a far superior PVR to the D* Tivo. On the other hand, there's nothing radically wrong with the FIOS PVR either. The side benefit is it's much faster than the S3.

The other issue is that even with a 1080p display, how would we know which issue is the limiting factor for measured resolution less than a full 1920? It could be HDNet itself, the box, FIOS or the display. So the bottom line is our results would still be rather murky. Having several data points from people who have both the Tivo S3 and the FIOS PVR could help provide some insight into the STB issue. Different data points from varying 1080p displays could help on that end. However we would still be unsure what's happening on HDNet's end vs. FIOS.
Yes, where the effective resolution loss takes place--if other measurements confirm--is the question. But hopefully more measurements by you lucky FIOS users, not just choice subjective adjectives, would help pin it down. Solving individual display resolution capabilities is easy with DVE's HD test disc, like Joe uses, other HD test DVDs, or the 'Easter Egg' resolution-wedge pattern on Blu-ray discs. HDNet's continued uplink of full-rez 1920X1080 test patterns should be confirmed; as I've mentioned, Gary Merson got ~1920 from D* in pre-HDLite days, and vaguely recall, still further back, a HDNet rep here confirming full-rez test patterns. And if you accept Marc's (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=8509731&&#post8509731) more recent ~1920 effective-resolution HDNet reading via a small TWC system and a 1080p display, that's further confirmation. Variations in rez between FIOS tuning methods would be...informative ! -- John

John,
I have not played the HDNET test pattern on my Sharp TV.
I do keep a copy of it on my PC as well as a DVD since I will never be able to get material off of my HDTIVO since I have canceled with Directv account.

Since the Test Pattern is NOT full resolution like DVE is, I didn't see that it would provide any valid comparisons.

Thanks, Joe. Must have gotten lost in your earlier explanation. Thought you'd recorded HDNet's patterns from FIOS, not D*'s HDLite, obviously unsuitable. -- John

Thanks, Joe. Must have gotten lost in your earlier explanation. Thought you'd recorded HDNet's patterns from FIOS, not D*'s HDLite, obviously unsuitable. -- John

Not surprising - I am a bit long winded and stuff can get lost in all the words:)


Did you check out my 'work in progress' spreadsheet on the Resolution and 5C status in my area?
http://southriver.web.aplus.net/

The spreadsheet is scanned before I upload it so don't worry about any sneaky Excel Macros.

Nice spreadsheet, Joe. Maybe one of these days someone with access to a high-end spectrum analyzer can add effective-resolution averages to standard-format resolutions. Effective resolutions, of course, vary from scene to scene with endless variables starting with filters stuck behind TV/film camera lenses. But some readings don't seem impossible.
Member dr1394, for example, who engineers codecs, posted this analyzer plot (http://archive2.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=5466046#post5466046) (sublink) showing a 720p crowd scene (follow-on post). dr1394 used a free/low-cost software program. Don't doubt, as I've mentioned, the many subjective reports of superior FIOS images, but it would be nice--to reconnect, obliquely, with the thread topic--to see firm data confirming this and contrasting with other sources. -- John

you guys bring up an interesting point. i'm going to switch to FiOS in the near future, and have played around with it at my parents house. i'm impressed with what i've seen so far, but i've always been skeptical of STB's and PQ loss. verizon offers CC's with it's service and my Pioneer has a CC slot. the thing is, i'm also thinking along the lines of building an HTPC for audio/video storage and it would be nice to be able to record live tv through this as well. how is this accomplished w/out a STB and IEEE firewire? my Pioneer has on screen TV guide so i'd imagine i won't have program descriptions, but will have a basic guide. any thoughts?

Yes, where the effective resolution loss takes place--if other measurements confirm--is the question. But hopefully more measurements by you lucky FIOS users, not just choice subjective adjectives, would help pin it down. Solving individual display resolution capabilities is easy with DVE's HD test disc, like Joe uses, other HD test DVDs, or the 'Easter Egg' resolution-wedge pattern on Blu-ray discs. HDNet's continued uplink of full-rez 1920X1080 test patterns should be confirmed; as I've mentioned, Gary Merson got ~1920 from D* in pre-HDLite days, and vaguely recall, still further back, a HDNet rep here confirming full-rez test patterns. And if you accept Marc's (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=8509731&&#post8509731) more recent ~1920 effective-resolution HDNet reading via a small TWC system and a 1080p display, that's further confirmation. Variations in rez between FIOS tuning methods would be...informative ! -- John

John, here's an more important point and please don't take it the wrong way: Although it would be interesting to get these measurements, I'd be willing to bet that most FIOS customers are so happy with the picture quality, they probably don't care what the actual numbers are. They see what they feel is the best picture they've gotten from any prior service and that's good enough for them. ;)

John, here's an more important point and please don't take it the wrong way: Although it would be interesting to get these measurements, I'd be willing to bet that most FIOS customers are so happy with the picture quality, they probably don't care what the actual numbers are. They see what they feel is the best picture they've gotten from any prior service and that's good enough for them. ;)
:) From the absence of posted HDNet rez readings since FIOS kicked in (other than this one (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=10710973&&#post10710973)), that's been my conclusion, too. -- John

i agree with ken. still, with 1080p displays becoming commonplace, and other providers *cough* D* *cough* increasing their capacity, i'd like to know if the stb is limiting resolution. is it possible to get reading from an S3 tivo with CC? if so, it'd be good to hear from someone with an s3 tivo.

Joe Q, great information. I'll be curious to see if you're able to get those rez measurements via your JVC.


I will be doing so later today.

I am psyched!!

The JVC Model 40K showed up yesterday and while it is a bit of a complicated beast to get setup the first time, i was able to finally get it going late last night.


Using the 6416 --->firewire--->JVC --->optical/component--->Denon Receiver path, I made about 5 minute test recordings from HDNET,Discovery HD and UHD (which are all 5C protected as indicated in my spreadsheet).

I was REAlly,REALLY pleased to see that my understanding of this 5C business is correct since I had 3 perfect D-VHS recordings that I watched on my Sharp TV.


An extra bonus:
Quite a few years ago, I had made a DVHS tape from Discovery HD Theater when DISCHD first went online a few years ago with my MITS Dvhs/MYHD/DISH 5000 rig.

That tape played fine on the JVC last night - at least the 20 minutes that I watched.
So, my library of 25 D-Vhs tapes made when DISH was the HD leader will play on this JVC.


I now have a way of offloading programming from the 6416 disk as well as making 'keeper' High def recordings.
This no-fanfare Motorola 6416 turns out to be quite a more capable DVR than the Tivo Series 3


I will post a number of PQ stats from FIOS later this evening.
Joe

Do any of the gurus here have any clue as to when the DC area is going to get CSNHD???? I am praying it comes by September when the Caps season starts. I don't understand how Philly can have it where it was supposed to be harder to get but we don't.

Thanks

I'm currently with DirecTV and live in Long Island, NY. A Verizon FIOS sales rep sold me on the TV saying they carried both FOX Sports HD and MSG HD. Knowing Cablevision and the Dolans, I said no. She wouldn't back down and said it was available. I called Verizon and they don't even seem to know. Anyone in NY with Verizon FIOS TV have MSG HD and/or FOX Sports HD. I'm a hockey fan and would continue with the install if this were true.

I'm currently with DirecTV and live in Long Island, NY. A Verizon FIOS sales rep sold me on the TV saying they carried both FOX Sports HD and MSG HD. Knowing Cablevision and the Dolans, I said no. She wouldn't back down and said it was available. I called Verizon and they don't even seem to know. Anyone in NY with Verizon FIOS TV have MSG HD and/or FOX Sports HD. I'm a hockey fan and would continue with the install if this were true.

Hi cmeinck - here is the New York area channel line up:

http://www22.verizon.com/NROneRetail/NR/rdonlyres/DEB12C7C-134D-46C3-BCFF-51F7F310B26B/0/NY_NewYorkArea.pdf

I don;t see MSG HD nor Fox Sports HD - they are available in SD, but BFD. This seems to be a common "mistake" by the sales reps, saying, "yeah, we have those stations", however, overlooking the fact that they are not HD.

That said, unless you have to have those stations, seriously consider changing over, I converted from D* to FIOS and not only do I save money, the picture is 100% better. I did love D* until I saw FIOS at a friend's house and couldn't believe the clarity. For me the programming is so much better, however, I'm not a Sports Fan.

I love Fios, but I just want that one little channel, I would gladly pay extra to get it. Please verizon add this so that I can see Alexander Ovechkin terrorize goaltenders in stunning 1080i on the local leader in sports in high definition, comcast sportsnet!

Hi cmeinck - here is the New York area channel line up:

http://www22.verizon.com/NROneRetail/NR/rdonlyres/DEB12C7C-134D-46C3-BCFF-51F7F310B26B/0/NY_NewYorkArea.pdf

I don;t see MSG HD nor Fox Sports HD - they are available in SD, but BFD. This seems to be a common "mistake" by the sales reps, saying, "yeah, we have those stations", however, overlooking the fact that they are not HD.

That said, unless you have to have those stations, seriously consider changing over, I converted from D* to FIOS and not only do I save money, the picture is 100% better. I did love D* until I saw FIOS at a friend's house and couldn't believe the clarity. For me the programming is so much better, however, I'm not a Sports Fan.

Any D* or Verizon rep who is telling you they get MSG-HD or FSN-NY HD is a liar.
False advertising is a crime.
As long as CVC's Jimmy Dolan is taking a [sober] breath, he's not giving up cable's unique selling proposition - those two nets in HD. Unless the Feds draw up legislation forcing him to do so.

Is there any way to browse the FIOS on demand listings online? It's kinda slow and tedious to scroll through the listings on the TV

Is there anywhere online that shows when the version 2.0 rollout will take place in Southern California? I'm in Lake Elsinore, just finally got it installed yesterday, and really looking forward to the new guide look. Any ideas when it'll hit SoCal?

Is there anywhere online that shows when the version 2.0 rollout will take place in Southern California? I'm in Lake Elsinore, just finally got it installed yesterday, and really looking forward to the new guide look. Any ideas when it'll hit SoCal?

It has been my experience that Vz doesn't tell anyone anything in advance. One morning you wakeup and turn on the TV and something has been added or removed. It just happens. I find that monitoring this site is the best thing to do since some of the changes are easy to miss and you find out about them here first. You have it and don't know it. Very strange way to do business. I have just gotten used to it. I don't like it but what can you do? :D

Is there any way to browse the FIOS on demand listings online? It's kinda slow and tedious to scroll through the listings on the TV

try zaptoit.com there are others, i'm sure.

Is there any way to browse the FIOS on demand listings online? It's kinda slow and tedious to scroll through the listings on the TV
I don't think they are posted anywhere. Some of the subscription services such as HBO on Demand might post their individual schedules, but Verizon hasn't done it across the board, at least yet.

As posted on Broadband Reports, HDNet is now showing the program guide for the NASA Space Shuttle landing on Thursday at 1:30 PM EDT. The final landing schedule is still not set. I just hope the program guide is updated so my recording will track. 35 minutes program length (not enough to see them exit the shuttle after landing). http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,18462242~days=30~start=20#18523445

Although not as spectacular as the launch, it's still amazing to watch. In daylight, so there should be a lot to see. If nothing else, record it to have the complete "box set series" of the space shuttle mission.

As posted on Broadband Reports, HDNet is now showing the program guide for the NASA Space Shuttle landing on Thursday at 1:30 PM EDT. The final landing schedule is still not set. I just hope the program guide is updated so my recording will track. 35 minutes program length (not enough to see them exit the shuttle after landing). http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,18462242~days=30~start=20#18523445

Although not as spectacular as the launch, it's still amazing to watch. In daylight, so there should be a lot to see. If nothing else, record it to have the complete "box set series" of the space shuttle mission.

Thanks for the update.

HDNet has again shifted its schedule for its "HDNet test pattern" from Sunday or Tuesday mornings to:
Saturday, June 23rd, 6:30 am ET
This earlier post (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=10823001&&#post10823001) outlines tracking down HDNet's shifting test pattern schedule.

As discussed earlier above (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=10746139&&#post10746139), DVRing, or viewing the resolution wedge portion live (last 4 of 10 mins), could help pinpoint possible FIOS STB (or transmission) effective resolution limitations, if any. As discussed earlier here and in the calibration (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=10785461&&#post10785461) forum, for full accuracy confirmation is needed that HDNet delivers ~1920X1080i final full resolution from resolution-wedge downlinks (not just the known format of 1920X1080i), then whether the display used provides adequate resolution. Not all 1080p displays, for example, resolve a full 1920X1080. -- John

Washington, D.C. (June 19, 2007) -- Verizon's FiOS TV service will soon offer a High-Definition On Demand feature.

That's according to an article by Reuters.

The news service reports that Verizon has not set a date for the HD VOD offering.

Verizon offers up to 26 HD channels in some markets, including local and national. It also has a VOD feature, but now the company wants to merge the two options.

"I don't think there are technical obstacles," Verizon Chief Technology Officer Mark Wegleitner told reporters late Monday during an industry conference, according to Reuters. "The network could support it now."

Several cable operators already offer a HD VOD feature with its high-def offering and satcasters DIRECTV and EchoStar are expected to launch similar services over the next year.

Verizon's TV service is now available to three million homes in 11 states, but the company plans to expand that to nine million homes by year's end and 18 million by the end of 2010.

The Business of Television
Verizon's FiOS TV Hits Half a Million Subs
By Katy Bachman MediaWeek June 20, 2007

FiOS TV, Verizon’s challenge to cable, has signed nearly half a million subscribers since its launch 20 months ago, the company announced Wednesday at the NXTcomm conference in Chicago. Ivan Seidenberg, chairman and CEO of Verizon also announced Verizon had signed its one millionth FiOS Internet customer.

At the end of first quarter, FiOS TV had 348,000 subscribers. Since then, Verizon has expanded its footprint in several of the nation’s largest markets, including Westchester County and Long Island, N.Y.; Philadelphia; and Baltimore, Md. On Monday, Rhode Island became the 11th state where Verizon is offering FiOS TV, now available to more than 3 million homes in the U.S.

Verizon plans for its FiOS fiber-to-the-home network to reach 9 million homes by the end of the year and 18 million by the end of the decade.

http://www.mediaweek.com/mw/news/recent_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1003601009

I have only been with FIOS for a little over 2 weeks after switching from Directv after 10 years.


Besides the GREAT PQ,which is why I made the switch, I have been very impressed at how well a company that has only been online for 2 years is being run.

I suspect that they knew that they better come 'out of the gate' working well and with alot of features or they would be DOA.

I read folks complainging about no High Def VOD but I was impressed that they were even able to offer VOD as soon as they went 'live'

As I expected HD VOD is on it's way.

Now if thjey could just tell Motorola to stick a 500 Gbyte disk in their DVR, I would be a 110% pleased customer.
They did everything right so far - just can not figure out why they dropped the ball on the HD DVR.

Cost I suspect. Probably this time next yar there will be an announcement that Verizon has their own DVR that smokes even the TIVO.

Between the small disk and the less compressed signal, that disk is always deleting stuff and is sitting at 90% full all the time.

Joe, did you ever get the rez measurements from HDNet?

Now if thjey could just tell Motorola to stick a 500 Gbyte disk in their DVR, I would be a 110% pleased customer.
They did everything right so far - just can not figure out why they dropped the ball on the HD DVR.

Cost I suspect. Probably this time next yar there will be an announcement that Verizon has their own DVR that smokes even the TIVO.

Between the small disk and the less compressed signal, that disk is always deleting stuff and is sitting at 90% full all the time.

Or Enable the SATA port and allow for users to attach additional storage.

Does Verizion FiOS have an online guide for TV and VOD similar to what Comcast has?

http://tvplanner.comcast.net

Fios is talking to Motorola about adding larger hard drives with the 320 and the 500 mentioned specifically. I would not expect to see it until 2008. I have been told not to expect a Sata implementation. For that I still use DVHS.

I read folks complainging about no High Def VOD but I was impressed that they were even able to offer VOD as soon as they went 'live'

As I expected HD VOD is on it's way.

.

Wow, You guys are easily impressed. Thats what the FIOS marketing guys are after.

Joe, did you ever get the rez measurements from HDNet?

No. The 5C compliance business got me!

I can record from the 6416 with the JVC D-VHS and play it back just fine via the JVC's component output.

So at least I now have a way of archiving and/or simply clearing up disk space space on the 6416 by using D-VHS tapes.
It also means that I can record anything that the 6416 can tune to because the JVC is fully 5C compliant.

Here is the kicker:
If I pull a recording that I made on the JVC from the 6416 off of the tape onto the PC, the JVC follows the 5C 'copy once' rules and I get one big encrypted file.
Even the TS header's are encryprted so all the analysis tools can not tell me the most basic things like resolution.

Tsreader, for example, will say 'Unable to find any Mpeg headers' and promply quits .
I did pay the $99 to get the full version of Tsreader. It has a lot of really usefull features beyond simple data analysis. Tsreader and VLC are replacing ahout 5 of my other tools that I have been using.

I have not given up yet though. I now have access to the authors of Tsreader through thje Tsread forum who I am sure can give me some ideas to try out.



Thye full version of Tsreader lets you record to a DVHS so that is another route that I want to try.

All this 5C stuff does is make things a PITA for us honest folks!!

Or Enable the SATA port and allow for users to attach additional storage.

It is possible to hook-up your Tivo unit to FiOS-TV. The hookup was offered to me when I connected, but I declined.