that would be a great ADD to the FiOS lineup, what would that make Vz have 30 total HD stations in Hampton Roads??

that would be a great ADD to the FiOS lineup, what would that make Vz have 30 total HD stations in Hampton Roads??

I think those 5 would make 29 unless I miscounted, the CW is supposed to be on there sometime in the not too distant future, they have been running fiber and hooking up equipment, but I can't find anybody w/a timetable. That would put us at 30.

No. They will go to the provider with the best overall service given the price. Unless they have D* now, few people are going to switch because it's going to mean a big increase in internet, phone, and TV costs. Triple plays are much more attractive to the average consumer than shear number of HD channels.

It's not like Verizon has no HD. Verizon has lots of HD, more than almost everyone who's not a satellite company. Verizon's price is attractive and it's service is top notch, and if they're buying their HDTV at Best Buy, they get a $125 credit on Verizon FiOS.

Verizon may have "plenty" of HD channels, but it needs to get real on their channel selection. Lifetime, Food, HGTV, give me a break. It time to add TBSHD, CNNHD, Fox Business News HD and it's long past due for Golf/VersusHD.

Verizon may have "plenty" of HD channels, but it needs to get real on their channel selection. Lifetime, Food, HGTV, give me a break. It time to add TBSHD, CNNHD, Fox Business News HD and it's long past due for Golf/VersusHD.TBS-HD does not yet offer any HD. Nothing since the MLB playoffs in HD, and nothing else planned for this month. :(

TBS-HD does not yet offer any HD. Nothing since the MLB playoffs in HD, and nothing else planned for this month. :(MLB playoffs sure did look great on TBSHD though... ;)

MLB playoffs sure did look great on TBSHD though... ;)

I hope this is TIC.

I think those 5 would make 29 unless I miscounted, the CW is supposed to be on there sometime in the not too distant future, they have been running fiber and hooking up equipment, but I can't find anybody w/a timetable. That would put us at 30.

hell yeah! finally get to see new Smallville episodes in HD!!

FWIW, a Verizon employee over on broadbandreports.com (Verizon Direct forum) told me a while back that if I wanted Verizon to hear my opinions, go to this URL: http://www22.verizon.com/content/fiostv/about+fios+tv/about+fios+tv.htm. Follow the "Love Your FiOS? Share your Input" link and take the survey. I haven't seen it for a few months, but a LOT of the questions pertain to HD. Put your HD channel requests in the "Is there anything else you want to tell us?" comment area at the end of the survey. You can leave contact info if you want.

I understand that they actually read this stuff, so it's worth a shot. In any case, it's a good way to vent. I put in my request for the NASA channel.

Well according to an article quoted on at swanni's site, there will be no more HD added till the spring and there is no commitment to add new channels. The main talk seems to be about HD VOD. I have just about had it with this service. If they do not add more HD and damn soon I will terminate my service at the end of my 1 year deal in February. It seems to me that they don't want to spend the cash to upgrade their service to add more capacity. What is the point of the "unlimited" bandwidth if you don't use it for HD? I know there are some here that disagree but this will be the end of verizon as a viable service. Cable knows it must add new HD and soon to compete with DBS and they are working frantically to do so. Not Verizon. Maybe they bit off more than they can chew and can't afford the capital outlays to expeand their system. if so, they should just get out of the business now.

FWIW, a Verizon employee over on broadbandreports.com (Verizon Direct forum) told me a while back that if I wanted Verizon to hear my opinions, go to this URL: http://www22.verizon.com/content/fiostv/about+fios+tv/about+fios+tv.htm. Follow the "Love Your FiOS? Share your Input" link and take the survey. I haven't seen it for a few months, but a LOT of the questions pertain to HD. Put your HD channel requests in the "Is there anything else you want to tell us?" comment area at the end of the survey. You can leave contact info if you want.

I understand that they actually read this stuff, so it's worth a shot. In any case, it's a good way to vent. I put in my request for the NASA channel.

Thanks. I just submitted my input. :)

Well according to an article quoted on at swanni's site, there will be no more HD added till the spring and there is no commitment to add new channels. The main talk seems to be about HD VOD. I have just about had it with this service. If they do not add more HD and damn soon I will terminate my service at the end of my 1 year deal in February. It seems to me that they don't want to spend the cash to upgrade their service to add more capacity. What is the point of the "unlimited" bandwidth if you don't use it for HD? I know there are some here that disagree but this will be the end of verizon as a viable service. Cable knows it must add new HD and soon to compete with DBS and they are working frantically to do so. Not Verizon. Maybe they bit off more than they can chew and can't afford the capital outlays to expeand their system. if so, they should just get out of the business now.

Frankly, I'm glad Verizon's talking about HD-VOD finally. Let's be realistic here: a serious commitment to HD-VOD, in the short term, is going to produce a lot more new HD programming than most all of the channels that D* has added in the last month.

Well according to an article quoted on at swanni's site, there will be no more HD added till the spring and there is no commitment to add new channels. The main talk seems to be about HD VOD. I have just about had it with this service. If they do not add more HD and damn soon I will terminate my service at the end of my 1 year deal in February. It seems to me that they don't want to spend the cash to upgrade their service to add more capacity. What is the point of the "unlimited" bandwidth if you don't use it for HD? I know there are some here that disagree but this will be the end of verizon as a viable service. Cable knows it must add new HD and soon to compete with DBS and they are working frantically to do so. Not Verizon. Maybe they bit off more than they can chew and can't afford the capital outlays to expeand their system. if so, they should just get out of the business now.

I agree with much of what you say. However, be careful about the swanni site, he's been notoriously inaccurate in the past.

I have gotten the same info from Verizon people myself not just the articel Phil cites. As to HD VOD, without all the HD channels, I am not impressed. Cable companies, like Comcast, have used HD VOD as a stop gap, when they lacked capacity to add HD channels. As it exists now, Verizon is not even able to complete with cable on HD VOD or HD channels. They clearly lack any business sense and are completely blowong it. By the time they get serious, they will be in deep trouble. They will not be able to drop analog before next spring. Why do I get the feeling that next spring could be 4Q 2008? Could be game over.

If they don't take HD more seriously, then yes it could be 'game over'....at least it would be for me.

some more HD programing, and HD sports pac's !!!!!!

(I love that title :) ). Heads up!! HDNet coverage for the shuttle launch is on the IMG for Tuesday, 11 AM ET. Weather conditions not that great, but give it a shot. Also listed for additional (replays) on the IMG. Lets see if they did anything about the sound- no announcers, just the feed from NASA, please.

http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/main/index.html

I think the problem with Verizon is that we really did expect them to do something more than just A&E HD. Not many thought they would not add TBS HD for the MLB playoffs especially since many FiOS markets had teams in the race. Also, every other day, we hear about D*, E*, and cable companies adding more. If those channels were just added at once I don't think people would have reacted this badly. We, FiOS customers, keep hearing more news about new channels almost every day. It is a bit frustrating.

For some reason, Verizon is not being helpful at all by keeping the customers in the dark as far as their future plans. We are going to do SOMETHING, SOMEDAY.

Another thing about them, lack of professionalism. Their CSR are usually nice folks, but very much lack the product and service knowledge. It is beyond me how FiOS is surviving with such business management. They lack guidance and direction. "Are we going to focus on the IP TV market, interactive games, our own IMG, expanding customer base in new markets or current markets?"

Did they do any R&D on their IMG before deploying it? Why did they get away from Microsoft's IMG and improve it instead of just abandoning it? What was the channel realignment for and was it premature? Do they have business plans for the next decade not just the next week?

These are the questions I really want to ask Verizon, and did ask with no response of course.

My contract has been over for a while now, but I like FiOS and putting up with not RSN in HD or new HD channels. Within a couple of months, though, I will be like many customers switching to other providers if no signs of hope appear. Maybe not for good, but at least till Verizon gets their act together.

Frankly, I'm glad Verizon's talking about HD-VOD finally. Let's be realistic here: a serious commitment to HD-VOD, in the short term, is going to produce a lot more new HD programming than most all of the channels that D* has added in the last month.

sure. if Verizon had hd vod and put nip/tuck, BSG, monk, etc. on there, I wouldn't care about fx hd and usa hd. The problem is, fx and usa are not going to put all their shows on vod (not for free anyway). they may put one or two episodes on vod for promotional purposes, but they want verizon to carry their channels. in other words, it'll be nice to have vod, but it's not going to be any substitute for the channels.

No. They will go to the provider with the best overall service given the price. Unless they have D* now, few people are going to switch because it's going to mean a big increase in internet, phone, and TV costs. Triple plays are much more attractive to the average consumer than shear number of HD channels.

It's not like Verizon has no HD. Verizon has lots of HD, more than almost everyone who's not a satellite company. Verizon's price is attractive and it's service is top notch, and if they're buying their HDTV at Best Buy, they get a $125 credit on Verizon FiOS.

nah Fios has less HD then Comcast now for a little while. Also you can have D* tv with fios internet and home phone in a triple play one bill. add verizon wireless cell phone for ultimate play.

we canceled fios tv and didn't have to pay any etf just switching our verizon one bill to include dtv.

D*, FIOS internet and phone triple play FTW!

I have gotten the same info from Verizon people myself not just the articel Phil cites. As to HD VOD, without all the HD channels, I am not impressed. Cable companies, like Comcast, have used HD VOD as a stop gap, when they lacked capacity to add HD channels. As it exists now, Verizon is not even able to complete with cable on HD VOD or HD channels. They clearly lack any business sense and are completely blowong it. By the time they get serious, they will be in deep trouble. They will not be able to drop analog before next spring. Why do I get the feeling that next spring could be 4Q 2008? Could be game over.

its been game over.... or at least the writing is on the wall and i was going to wait around for their death. Maybe they can come back from this but i'm not waiting around to find out. they tried but they never even matched Comcasts dvr functionality which wasnt a hard thing to match. They blew a lot of smoke up ppls arse that they were better then cable but were so busy trying to beat them and being cocky that they forgot to first match the most basic features. have to match teh competition before you beat them.

I feel bad for all the ppl wishfully hoping that fios will get better but all the facts say it wont be any time soon. If you have fios internet which is a great product of thiers with basically unrivaled speeds then you wont be charged an ETF for cancelign fios tv.

so do yourself a favor and drop that zero and get the D* hero. otherwise you will just be kicking yourself that you kept waiting for fios to get better and it never did.

D* is getting VOD in a few weeks (mid nov.) and will prob have hd vod before fios.

DTV, FIOS internet and homephone triple play FTW!

For some of us, D* is not an option. I have limited HD service with them and NFLST but line of site to Sat B is blocked in the spring and summer plus no CSN. I will never go to D. If FioS blows it, it will be back to Comcast. As for the DVR, I like the FiOS one better than Comcast. Seems to be more reliable to me. They both perform their primary function flawlessly, name time shifting programming with no looss in quality. For me and a DVR, that is all that matters.

its been game over.... or at least the writing is on the wall and i was going to wait around for their death. Maybe they can come back from this but i'm not waiting around to find out. they tried but they never even matched Comcasts dvr functionality which wasnt a hard thing to match. They blew a lot of smoke up ppls arse that they were better then cable but were so busy trying to beat them and being cocky that they forgot to first match the most basic features. have to match teh competition before you beat them.

I feel bad for all the ppl wishfully hoping that fios will get better but all the facts say it wont be any time soon. If you have fios internet which is a great product of thiers with basically unrivaled speeds then you wont be charged an ETF for cancelign fios tv.

so do yourself a favor and drop that zero and get the D* hero. otherwise you will just be kicking yourself that you kept waiting for fios to get better and it never did.

D* is getting VOD in a few weeks (mid nov.) and will prob have hd vod before fios.

DTV, FIOS internet and homephone triple play FTW!


I've been told several times by several CSRs that there is in fact and ETF if you cancel any of the three services before the two years are up. Maybe they're wrong, but I've been told several times. I'd love to have another option, but I'm stuck for two yrs....unless VZ has to pull the plug on FiOS tv....no D* for me b/c no hd locals....yes I know I can do an antenna.

as for hdvod, VZ is offering some here in the richmond, va area. i don't know if it's nationwide, but it is there...slim pickings, but it's something.

I've been told several times by several CSRs that there is in fact and ETF if you cancel any of the three services before the two years are up. Maybe they're wrong, but I've been told several times. I'd love to have another option, but I'm stuck for two yrs....unless VZ has to pull the plug on FiOS tv....no D* for me b/c no hd locals....yes I know I can do an antenna.

Hi Speck's Dad - I was advised by VZ that I had a commitment to keep the FIOS Internet, however, not the TV (or even the phone). Just an FYI.

I would love to cancel because of all the billing problems I've had, not to mention the new IMG is just terrible (IMHO), however, I have no sight of D*'s new satellite and Comcast is my only option (or non-option in my opinion).

For some of us, D* is not an option. I have limited HD service with them and NFLST but line of site to Sat B is blocked in the spring and summer plus no CSN. I will never go to D.Hmmm... DirecTV has CSN-HD... and what is Sat B???

CSN in Philly is what I was referring to. That is not and will not be on D* in SD or HD. Sat B is one of their 3 sats that I can get, A, B, C. I forget their postions in the sky. I get 95% signal on A and 85% on C and nothing on B unteil all the leaves are off the trees. As a result, HDNet and ESPN2HD on't come in at all. I get them on Verizon though.

so do yourself a favor and drop that zero and get the D* hero. otherwise you will just be kicking yourself that you kept waiting for fios to get better and it never did

I would have to argue against this and many of the complaints about FIOS TV. I have had Comcast, D*, Comcast (again), and Verizon, in that order. No matter how I add it up, I am currently getting excellent service and a lot of HD for less money than I spent with either Comcast or D*. The only thing I don't have is HD VOD, but that is being piloted now in VA. Sure, more HD channels would be great, but I don't even get to watch everything available now! I was the first FIOS customer in my neighborhood a few months ago, and I have seen many more installs happen since then. Many people I work with have FIOS TV and love it. I'm not saying that FIOS TV is the greatest thing ever, but it does seem that there are customers like me who are very happy with the service. Verizon is a solid provider with good product, good service at a decent price. I don't think it is "game over" just yet.:D

Many people I work with have FIOS TV and love it. I'm not saying that FIOS TV is the greatest thing ever, but it does seem that there are customers like me who are very happy with the service. Verizon is a solid provider with good product, good service at a decent price. I don't think it is "game over" just yet.:D

Ignore Quatre. He's a blatant troll. I share the same sentiments as you and am in no rush to switch, YET. There are more than enough HD channels for me (I only watch a handful of them), and the price can't be beat. If by next summer Fios doesn't start adding more channels, I will consider switching. But, I don't see the logic in switching my TV service if I'm not even going to watch the new HD channels, just to say "I have X number of HD channels, my provider is better than yours!" lol

There is apparently a box guide update coming within 30 days. Does anyone know what that entails? The CS rep told me he would email me a .doc yesterday, but of course I have yet to see it..

Ignore Quatre. He's a blatant troll. I share the same sentiments as you and am in no rush to switch, YET. There are more than enough HD channels for me (I only watch a handful of them), and the price can't be beat. If by next summer Fios doesn't start adding more channels, I will consider switching. But, I don't see the logic in switching my TV service if I'm not even going to watch the new HD channels, just to say "I have X number of HD channels, my provider is better than yours!" lol

I agree about switching service. I have had Comcast, Direct TV and then Comcast HD. I have not had any complaints about Verizon. Like everyone else, I would like every channel and every program to be in HD. It is coming and I will be patient for a while. Unless or until FIOS lowers their standards or stops being competitive in price and service, I will stay where I am.

I agree about switching service. I have had Comcast, Direct TV and then Comcast HD. I have not had any complaints about Verizon. Like everyone else, I would like every channel and every program to be in HD. It is coming and I will be patient for a while. Unless or until FIOS lowers their standards or stops being competitive in price and service, I will stay where I am.
I guess you are not a sports fan? I just can't understand this, why no CSN MA HD? WHY?
I can wait until this time next year to add any HD channels, if and only if I get the RSN in HD. If MASN (carries Nationals and Orioles games) goes HD and FiOS doesn't budge with adding either channel then I will switch. Other than that, life is beautiful with FiOS.

Why no NHL Network on FiOS? It's killing me right now. Must.have.hockey. At least there's a game on Versus tonight.

Congrats on HDNet for the shuttle launch coverage. Much improved since last time. The announcers didn't talk over the T-9 minute roll call and they even let the NASA channel handle the last 5 minutes of audio before launch. That's good.

Now, after launch, why on earth (pun intended) would they cut out the NASA channel audio, which was doing a fantastic job of calling the play-by-play of the launch, including all the ground / shuttle comm? The announcers even interrupted the launch after the first few minutes to show the what the launch pad looked like. Why now of all times, when the NASA channel was showing live views from the main booster tank? They even cut out the live NASA audio feed.

Video was awsome, even the SD feed from NASA. The SD view from the tank showed unbelievably clear plasma streams coming off the shuttle as it separated from the tank (that wasn't fire). Not to mention the incredible detail of the launch pad cameras.

FiOS has got to add the NASA channel. Before I go crazy. At least there's FiOS internet to stream coverage. I'm going to record the landing and watch internet live. Content first, quality later.

Why no NHL Network on FiOS? It's killing me right now. Must.have.hockey. At least there's a game on Versus tonight.

Two reasons:
1. NHL Network is partly owned by Comcast. Fios will probably get it, but the negotiations will take a long time because Fios is a competitor of Comcast in many markets. (same thing happened with Versus)

2. Low demand. I love hockey, but I know that the ratings for the game in this country stink. I don't think Fios wants to add the cost of this channel when so few will watch it. I'm sure they want to add it to the sports package and the NHL folks want it on basic. It's a common problem with channels like this and NFL, NBA, Tennis, Golf, etc.

http://money.cnn.com/news/newsfeeds/articles/prnewswire/NYTU04223102007-1.htm

The short of it:

"HARRISBURG, Pa., Oct. 23 /PRNewswire/ -- Cable TV competition is a major step closer for consumers in south central Pennsylvania, as Verizon today announced plans to establish a regional video hub office that will enable the company to deliver video programming over the nation's most comprehensive all- digital, fiber-optic network straight to customers' homes."

* No one around here that I know of refers to Dauphin or Cumberland counties as South Central PA ! -> Just part of Central PA..

* "Verizon began constructing its all-fiber network in 2005. " In the Hummelstown area we've had FiOS Internet since September of 2005. Original TV franchise negotiations started that same Summer. Perhaps the longest wait anywhere for TV service after Internet.

Two reasons:
1. NHL Network is partly owned by Comcast. Fios will probably get it, but the negotiations will take a long time because Fios is a competitor of Comcast in many markets. (same thing happened with Versus)

2. Low demand. I love hockey, but I know that the ratings for the game in this country stink. I don't think Fios wants to add the cost of this channel when so few will watch it. I'm sure they want to add it to the sports package and the NHL folks want it on basic. It's a common problem with channels like this and NFL, NBA, Tennis, Golf, etc.

Wow - can you all stop this "Fios won't carry a channel b/c Comcast owns it garbage?" FIOS isn't carrying it b/c right now they don't have ROOM FOR IT. And 2nd, so far, the NHL Network has been added almost everywhere to the providers Sports Tier, including Comcast. Man - get some facts straight before posting.

Wow - can you all stop this "Fios won't carry a channel b/c Comcast owns it garbage?" FIOS isn't carrying it b/c right now they don't have ROOM FOR IT. And 2nd, so far, the NHL Network has been added almost everywhere to the providers Sports Tier, including Comcast. Man - get some facts straight before posting.

Can you just stop your campaign against VZ, it's getting a little annoying.

We all know there are issues with adding HD content due to limited bandwidth, but to say the low demand is not a factor is just false.

I understand you moved to Comcast because you've had many issues with Verizon, but it's probably time to move on.

I'll put myself into the "VZ is OK with me" group.

Sure there may be a few less HD channels but like others have mentioned only a few are truly full-time HD. The newer ones annoy me with the low % of HD programming. I've been with VZ for 2 weeks now and have no complaints compared to Comcast. I have NFL Network without paying an extra $8/month for the "sports tier" and just having NFL Replay is worth it to me. The PQ is as good or better, the guide is better and MUCH faster. Sunday night I watched the Sox in HD and was jumping back and forth from my HD recording of the Pats game - I used to do this with my Comcast box and it was always a crap shoot when it would freeze up. The VZ implementation without the tuner swap feature is solid as a rock so I was in HD sports nirvana!

VZ will add channels when the "common folks" really look for them. We represent the leading edge of HD consumers (how many people are STILL dropping $$ on LCD/Plasmas TVs without getting HD service or worse getting HD service hooked up via composite cables??) so we want VZ to be on the leading edge. Unfortunately we're the minority and since VZ is relatively new to the HD game I assume they'll be focusing on expanding their subscriber base before really starting to expand their offering.

I guess you are not a sports fan? I just can't understand this, why no CSN MA HD? WHY?
I can wait until this time next year to add any HD channels, if and only if I get the RSN in HD. If MASN (carries Nationals and Orioles games) goes HD and FiOS doesn't budge with adding either channel then I will switch. Other than that, life is beautiful with FiOS.

They are trying to add CSNMA-HD, and have been for months. There is no satellite feed of the channel so VZ has to acquire it via fiber direct connect. Once the hardware is in place there are technical hurdles involved with the this RSN that isnt an issue with other RSNs. The coverage area of CSNMA is huge, and requires special blackout restrictions, which has been problematic. Its also the reason that Texas users don't get the Dallas Mavericks games on HDNet.

see the posts by "FRMRVZMAN" here (http://www.dslreports.com/forum/r19022912-Mercer-County-NJ-36-HD-Channels-VA-Wash-Metro-27-HD).

I'll put myself into the "VZ is OK with me" group.

... Sunday night I watched the Sox in HD and was jumping back and forth from my HD recording of the Pats game - I used to do this with my Comcast box and it was always a crap shoot when it would freeze up. The VZ implementation without the tuner swap feature is solid as a rock so I was in HD sports nirvana!



How do you jump back and forth with Vz?
This is one thing I do often with Comcast and the 2 tuners swap function.

new IMG is up in tampa

new IMG is up in tampa

Really? Is this the first time you had the new IMG? Did they tell you it was coming?

How do you jump back and forth with Vz?
This is one thing I do often with Comcast and the 2 tuners swap function.

Use the "back" or "last" option on the remote. I have a Logitech 670 remote, so it's "last" for me. The tuners are not buffered in parallel, so you won't be able to rewind the other channel when you switch to it, but otherwise it works pretty well.

Use the "back" or "last" option on the remote. I have a Logitech 670 remote, so it's "last" for me. The tuners are not buffered in parallel, so you won't be able to rewind the other channel when you switch to it, but otherwise it works pretty well.
.. & I remember reading that VZ is planning full tuner swap w/buffers in a 1st Q '08 update ...

new IMG is up in tampa
Yes, Verizon rolled out the IMG in either all or some of Florida last night. What I find astounding is that the reports on the IMG they got has the same release and build numbers as the buggy IMG they rolled out in August. For the QIP6416, it is still Release 1.0.3, Build 03.40. Not even a new build to fix the worse bugs!!!! :eek:

Maybe the plan is to finish rolling it out and then do a network-wide upgrade?

Never got it N.Y. and don't expect it ever. ;)

Never got it N.Y. and don't expect it ever. ;)

Quit bragging!!;)

Sorry, what is an IMG? Is that the guide update I asked about?

Sorry, what is an IMG? Is that the guide update I asked about?

Interactive Media Guide.

Yes, Verizon rolled out the IMG in either all or some of Florida last night. What I find astounding is that the reports on the IMG they got has the same release and build numbers as the buggy IMG they rolled out in August. For the QIP6416, it is still Release 1.0.3, Build 03.40. Not even a new build to fix the worse bugs!!!! :eek:

I have this build on a 6416 P2. Dare I ask what the bugs are? Compared to the Comcast one it's the pinnacle of technology! :p

Then again, the bar may be lowered for me - I've never owned a Tivo box...

They are trying to add CSNMA-HD, and have been for months. There is no satellite feed of the channel so VZ has to acquire it via fiber direct connect. Once the hardware is in place there are technical hurdles involved with the this RSN that isnt an issue with other RSNs. The coverage area of CSNMA is huge, and requires special blackout restrictions, which has been problematic. Its also the reason that Texas users don't get the Dallas Mavericks games on HDNet.

see the posts by "FRMRVZMAN" here (http://www.dslreports.com/forum/r19022912-Mercer-County-NJ-36-HD-Channels-VA-Wash-Metro-27-HD).

At the risk of sounding like a whino, but how is that supposed to make us feel better, or help us cut verizon some slack. The thing is, Cox doesn't carry CSN HD in my area or I would be gone (mind you they have less HD channels and worse quality than FiOS) and I would never ever again get D* or E*. For me it is not about quantity, that is why I just don't understand the recent whining about the new HD channels.

SureWest has more of the channels (http://money.cnn.com/news/newsfeeds/articles/prnewswire/AQTU25923102007-1.htm) members here want and are adding more later this year. It's, just like FiOS, a FTTH and doing it the right way, I think.

At the risk of sounding like a whino, but how is that supposed to make us feel better, or help us cut verizon some slack. The thing is, Cox doesn't carry CSN HD in my area or I would be gone (mind you they have less HD channels and worse quality than FiOS) and I would never ever again get D* or E*. For me it is not about quantity, that is why I just don't understand the recent whining about the new HD channels.

SureWest has more of the channels (http://money.cnn.com/news/newsfeeds/articles/prnewswire/AQTU25923102007-1.htm) members here want and are adding more later this year. It's, just like FiOS, a FTTH and doing it the right way, I think.

Its not intended to make anyone feel better, Its just the reality of whats going on.

I am really annoyed at the situation personally, the only thing i would watch in HD on CSNMA is DC United, and its clear that I wont be seeing any of that in HD this year.

Its not intended to make anyone feel better, Its just the reality of whats going on.

I am really annoyed at the situation personally, the only thing i would watch in HD on CSNMA is DC United, and its clear that I wont be seeing any of that in HD this year.

I have CSNMA-HD through Comcast in Richmond. I think there were only a couple (2) of programs/games that were in HD over the summer. Some of the Redskins games would have been in HD, but they were blacked out by a local channel-that didn't carry it in HD...

October is almost over, but this is what was in HD.
http://midatlantic.comcastsportsnet.com/hd_schedule.asp

there will be over 30 caps games and over 30 wizards games in HD I think this year.

I have this build on a 6416 P2. Dare I ask what the bugs are? Compared to the Comcast one it's the pinnacle of technology! :p

Then again, the bar may be lowered for me - I've never owned a Tivo box...
Once you have tried TiVo, you will never want to change back to anything else. :)

Once you have tried TiVo, you will never want to change back to anything else. :)

we had a TiVO @ the Fios kiosk and i didn't like it i prefer my D* branded DVR's over the old D* TiVO... but maybe cause it was an old receiver lol.. the only thing i like about that TiVO was the DLB(dual live buffer) but other than that i didn't really like it. no caller id no support for D* interactive no DoD, meadiashare... the list goes on lol

but i'm sure the NEW HD (cable based) TiVO's support HILLTOP SAILOR's point of view lol

I recorded the HDNet test pattern last Saturday on the FIOS Motorola DVR. This is connected via HDMI to my Pioneer Pro 150 which is a very highly regarded, 60" full 1080p display.

The problem is I'm only seeing a horizontal resolution of about 1100-1200 via the HDNet pattern. If FIOS is truly passing all the signal, how is this possible. If the limitation is in the FIOS DVR, that kind of makes the fact that FIOS is passing HD untouched, kind of 'moot'. :(

Anyone have any ideas?

I recorded the HDNet test pattern last Saturday on the FIOS Motorola DVR. This is connected via HDMI to my Pioneer Pro 150 which is a very highly regarded, 60" full 1080p display.

The problem is I'm only seeing a horizontal resolution of about 1100-1200 via the HDNet pattern. If FIOS is truly passing all the signal, how is this possible. If the limitation is in the FIOS DVR, that kind of makes the fact that FIOS is passing HD untouched, kind of 'moot'. :(

Anyone have any ideas?
Just raised a similar point, in the programming forum (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=12018605&postcount=16), contrasting HD Lite with Geekgirl's FIOS reading (~1300 lines) and a report of the full 1920X1080 lines from an Orlando member. Raised my usual points about potential STB limitations and head-end processing in follow-on posts in the calibration-forum thread I linked. -- John

Ken,
Not sure how the DVR could be messing it up, but I have that test pattern saved on my Series3 TiVo. I'll check it on my 6010FD and let you know what I see.

I have read that the HD.net test pattern has some issues, the only one I remember is with the overscan numbers. I'm not sure if any of the other tests have issues as well.

Ken,
I have read that the HD.net test pattern has some issues, the only one I remember is with the overscan numbers. I'm not sure if any of the other tests have issues as well.
As linked in the post just above, someone in Orlando just reported measuring a full-rez 1920X1080, or close to it (10--11 wedge reading), with his SA8300HD and Panasonic 1080p plasma. Tends to confirm HDNet is uplinking true 1080i, resolution-wise. I've seen the report of inaccurate scan markings, too, although don't think I'd rely entirely on HDNet's patterns for a significant adjustment like scan width anyway. IMO, the more data the better. Might indicate smaller head ends are piping out full test pattern rez, but in the past most report ~1300 lines maximum resolvable (not format). -- John

EDIT: A post by DoubleDAZ in an Arizona forurm, which can be Googled, last year (Dec. 11) outlines potential resolution-limiting problems with the 8300HD, perhaps applicable to Motorola STBs, too. (I'd post a link but AVS substitutes *** for the link name--or even the name outside the link!) This STB tech material mentions STB memory limitations and reads like what AVSer vegggas wrote earlier here and I summarized in another post today. BTW, regarding a comment in that linked post, I haven't noticed effective horiz. rez differences between live and DVRed HDNet patterns (limited to YPbPr 1290 lines here); interlaced 1080i horiz. rez shouldn't drop with progressive display; and pausing the DVRed HDNet playback on my CRT RPTV, as expected, about halves my vertical rez because only one TV field or half-frame plays in PAUSE. And HDMI vs. YPbPr shouldn't make a huge difference in horiz. rez--unless something in really wrong with a display's or STB's analog processing. Suspect <50 lines variation might be typical, based on an earlier Sony Ruby comparison posted here. -- John

Was I the only one who noticed that Game 1 of the World Series was not listed at ALL in the Verizon guide? How can they be this incompetent? First it's not showing new primetime programming as actually being "new" (some still say repeats even when they aren't, which screws up season recordings), now they don't even show Game 1 listed on Fox at all?

I can tell you the exact bit rate if that's what you want to know.

I just got TiVoToGo working and none of the HD stuff seems to be copy protected so i can check all the bit rates and resolutions. I've already extracted the test patterns so I'll report back when I get home.

Was I the only one who noticed that Game 1 of the World Series was not listed at ALL in the Verizon guide? How can they be this incompetent? First it's not showing new primetime programming as actually being "new" (some still say repeats even when they aren't, which screws up season recordings), now they don't even show Game 1 listed on Fox at all?

It was in the guide here, but the teams were TBA.

It was in the guide here, but the teams were TBA. The problem is the subcontractor providing the info.

Just raised a similar point, in the programming forum (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=12018605&postcount=16), contrasting HD Lite with Geekgirl's FIOS reading (~1300 lines) and a report of the full 1920X1080 lines from an Orlando member. Raised my usual points about potential STB limitations and head-end processing in follow-on posts in the calibration-forum thread I linked. -- JohnFor completeness, don't forget about the display itself. My SamSung DLP is actually a native 960 x 1080 pixel design. SamSung uses a "wobulation" technique to give an apparent 1920 x 1080 resolution.

Lots of additional info in the "How to use HDNet Calibration" thread in the Display Calibration forum: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=800757&page=3 (BTW: thanks for answering my questions :)).

Just raised a similar point, in the programming forum (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=12018605&postcount=16), contrasting HD Lite with Geekgirl's FIOS reading (~1300 lines) and a report of the full 1920X1080 lines from an Orlando member. Raised my usual points about potential STB limitations and head-end processing in follow-on posts in the calibration-forum thread I linked. -- John

My confusion is trying to accurately determine where the lines merge to gray. Since this is a gradual process as you move down the wedge, there's quite a bit of subjectivity.

There's also a separate smaller wedge to the right that I believe goes from 7-9. That wedge seems more crisply defined than the other wedge.

A search (http://www.hd.net/program_search_results.html?keyword=test&whattosearch=title&ws=1) of HD.Net's site shows they've slated their 10-min test patterns for three Saturdays, 6:30 am ET, starting today (10/27).

The last 4 mins provide resolution wedges (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=6664456&&#post6664456) to approximate effective horizontal and vertical resolution, assuming your HDNet source hasn't reformatted the 1920X1080i signal to a different format resolution. Using the converging-line wedges in the central circle, the vertical wedges measure effective horizontal resolution and the horizontal wedges vertical resolution. Yup, sounds confusing until you examine the patterns.

The numbering beside the wedges indicates resolution per picture height. For horiz. rez., estimate the grayout point where the B&W lines can no longer be resolved. If it's ~7.3, for example, on the 6--8 wedge segment (upper right in the central circle), multiply 7.3 by 100, then by 16/9 to convert lines per picture height to lines per 16X9 HD picture width. So, 7.3 X 100 X 1.78 = ~1300 lines maximum effective horizontal resolution.

This Orlando member recently confirmed (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=11998127&postcount=14) measuring ~10.5 using the higher-numbered, finer-resolution central wedges. That's ~10.5 X 100 X 1.78 = ~1869 horiz. rez. Member dsigner also measured ~10.5 X 100 = 1050 lines for vertical resolution with a 1080p plasma display.

Fixed-pixel displays such as 1366X768 models, or 960X1080 wobulated DLPs not confirmed being able to resolve 1920X1080, seem adequate to measure horiz. rez. from head ends and STBs assumed to be delivering ~1300 lines maximum horiz. rez. But known full-resolution displays, such as dsigner's 1080p plasma, are needed to confirm the highest resolutions. This discussion (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=11998675&postcount=15) of dsinger's measurements briefly mentions differences between test pattern and motion-video programming resolutions. -- John

My DVR has NO data for Sun-Thurs, and it's not saying "Please Wait..." as if it is loading, it says "No Program Description" on every channel for 120 hours straight. I've tried rebooting the DVR 2x and I get the same results.

Any suggestions? I've opened up a trouble ticket w/Vz, but it's the weekend so I know it won't get fixed any time soon.

A search (http://www.hd.net/program_search_results.html?keyword=test&whattosearch=title&ws=1) of HD.Net's site shows they've slated their 10-min test patterns for three Saturdays, 6:30 am ET, starting today (10/27).

The last 4 mins provide resolution wedges (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=6664456&&#post6664456) to approximate effective horizontal and vertical resolution, assuming your HDNet source hasn't reformatted the 1920X1080i signal to a different format resolution. Using the converging-line wedges in the central circle, the vertical wedges measure effective horizontal resolution and the horizontal wedges vertical resolution. Yup, sounds confusing until you examine the patterns.

The numbering beside the wedges indicates resolution per picture height. For horiz. rez., estimate the grayout point where the B&W lines can no longer be resolved. If it's ~7.3, for example, on the 6--8 wedge segment (upper right in the central circle), multiply 7.3 by 100, then by 16/9 to convert lines per picture height to lines per 16X9 HD picture width. So, 7.3 X 100 X 1.78 = ~1300 lines maximum effective horizontal resolution.

This Orlando member recently confirmed (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=11998127&postcount=14) measuring ~10.5 using the higher-numbered, finer-resolution central wedges. That's ~10.5 X 100 X 1.78 = ~1869 horiz. rez. Member dsigner also measured ~10.5 X 100 = 1050 lines for vertical resolution with a 1080p plasma display.

Fixed-pixel displays such as 1366X768 models, or 960X1080 wobulated DLPs not confirmed being able to resolve 1920X1080, seem adequate to measure horiz. rez. from head ends and STBs assumed to be delivering ~1300 lines maximum horiz. rez. But known full-resolution displays, such as dsigner's 1080p plasma, are needed to confirm the highest resolutions. This discussion (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=11998675&postcount=15) of dsinger's measurements briefly mentions differences between test pattern and motion-video programming resolutions. -- John



My wobulated DLPs have never had a problem showing the resolution. My old HLR SAmsung can only show around 1800 lines of resolution, but it was a fist generation 1080P wobulated set. My newer Toshiba 1080P DLP has no problem showing all lines in the resolution wedge. You have to make sure the set is capable of 1:1 pixel mapping to have a chance to show the full resolution. With the Toshiba it has to be in NAtural picture mode to have 1:1 pixel mapping. Any other mode won't be 1:1 and won't show the full resolution in that test pattern. My old 1080P Samsung, to get 1:1 pixel mapping, you have to enter the service mode everytime you turn it on to get 1:1 pixel mapping.
Also if your set doesn't properly deinterlace 1080i to 1080P, it also won't show the full resolution either
So a wobulated set is easily capable of showing the full 1920x1080 resolution. Like any other 1080P set it needs to be able to deinterlace 1080i properly and show 1:1 pixel mapping to be able to show the full 1920x1080 resolution pattern.

A search (http://www.hd.net/program_search_results.html?keyword=test&whattosearch=title&ws=1) of HD.Net's site shows they've slated their 10-min test patterns for three Saturdays, 6:30 am ET, starting today (10/27).

The last 4 mins provide resolution wedges (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=6664456&&#post6664456) to approximate effective horizontal and vertical resolution, assuming your HDNet source hasn't reformatted the 1920X1080i signal to a different format resolution. Using the converging-line wedges in the central circle, the vertical wedges measure effective horizontal resolution and the horizontal wedges vertical resolution. Yup, sounds confusing until you examine the patterns.

The numbering beside the wedges indicates resolution per picture height. For horiz. rez., estimate the grayout point where the B&W lines can no longer be resolved. If it's ~7.3, for example, on the 6--8 wedge segment (upper right in the central circle), multiply 7.3 by 100, then by 16/9 to convert lines per picture height to lines per 16X9 HD picture width. So, 7.3 X 100 X 1.78 = ~1300 lines maximum effective horizontal resolution.

This Orlando member recently confirmed (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=11998127&postcount=14) measuring ~10.5 using the higher-numbered, finer-resolution central wedges. That's ~10.5 X 100 X 1.78 = ~1869 horiz. rez. Member dsigner also measured ~10.5 X 100 = 1050 lines for vertical resolution with a 1080p plasma display.

John

John, on my 1080p plasma, using the 6-8 wedge segment, I can definitely see out to the limit (8). I'll check again, but I'm almost sure that's what I saw last night. That would give me a minimum of 1422 horiz. rez.

What I find odd is that it appears the 6-8 wedge segment appears clearer than that same 6-8 slice of the larger wedge that goes from 7-11 (even though you can't obviously see the '6' there since it begins at 7)! Even the picture you posted of the pattern seems to show this. It's probably just an illusion. :confused:

Valuable tip from aaronwt about the need for 1:1 pixel mapping in the correct mode to achieve full resolution from HDNet patterns with 960X1080 DLP wobulated displays.

One of these years perhaps the 'missing' resolution from HDNet's patterns delivered by some systems, and presumably normal programming as well, will be restored. -- John

Here are the stats from my test pattern clip recorded via FIOS from HDnet.


Duration: 0:09:58
Data Size: 1.16 GB
Bit Rate: 16.58 Mbps

Video Tracks:
224 MPEG-2, 1920 × 1080, 16:9, 29.97 fps, 19.39 Mbps, upper field first

Audio Tracks:
128 AC3 3/2, 48 kHz, 384 kbps


I'd say I can see defined lines till 9 on the vertical lines just above the center and about 10 on the horizontal lines. Viewing on my PDP-6010FD in Standard mode.

Hey, we actually got a mailing here in the N.Y. area for the new IMG that is coming. Hard to believe.

I had a problem with the IMG, thought I'd let you know about it. Last night I started having the screen freeze with a message on the screen (I think it was that service was unavailable). This happened when I changed channels to any other channel either by channel up / down or by using the guide.

I tried powering the DVR off and then on, but this only fixed it for a bit. I called the FIOS service and the service person immediately told me that it was a problem with the IMG. The problem is apparently going to be fixed with a new release, but until then, she gave me a work around which seemed to work well:

1. power down the DVR.
2. unplug the coax able from the DVR.
3 wait about 30 seconds.
4. reconnect the coax.
5. plug the power back on.
6. Turn the DVR on ONLY after the time is displayed.

Seemed to work fine, it is annoying, but there it is. The FIOS rep was apologetic and gave me something that worked, so my temperature has gne down.

not programing related but its Vz news

Did any one read this: http://newscenter.verizon.com/press-releases/verizon/2007/verizon-redefines-fast-with.html

Vz launched 20MBps download/20Mbps upload in NY and CT. for $64.99 monthly..

20MB upload is insane... they may launch that in VA or northern VA sometime in the future.. but that is just crazy upload speeds.


any one in NY or CT have this new data plan????

I had a problem with the IMG, thought I'd let you know about it. Last night I started having the screen freeze with a message on the screen (I think it was that service was unavailable). This happened when I changed channels to any other channel either by channel up / down or by using the guide.....

How did you know when you got the new IMG update?

How did you know when you got the new IMG update?

I didn't - I expect it will come in sometime soon, but the workaround has now worked for a couple of days, so it works fine.

not programing related but its Vz news

Did any one read this: http://newscenter.verizon.com/press-releases/verizon/2007/verizon-redefines-fast-with.html

Vz launched 20MBps download/20Mbps upload in NY and CT. for $64.99 monthly..

20MB upload is insane... they may launch that in VA or northern VA sometime in the future.. but that is just crazy upload speeds.


any one in NY or CT have this new data plan????

I have the FiOS 30/5 service and like it. I have no need for 20 up. With 30 down, many sites can't keep up with it (which means 30 is overkill in many instances). I pay less than $64 for my 30/5. 20/20 count me not interested. I have heard it said that this new 20/20 service may help with HD-VOD, but I do not see how.

I didn't - I expect it will come in sometime soon, but the workaround has now worked for a couple of days, so it works fine.

Sorry, I meant how did you first know when the IMG update had been made? The update you are having problems with..

I have the FiOS 30/5 service and like it. I have no need for 20 up. With 30 down, many sites can't keep up with it (which means 30 is overkill in many instances). I pay less than $64 for my 30/5. 20/20 count me not interested. I have heard it said that this new 20/20 service may help with HD-VOD, but I do not see how.

yea 30/5 in VA is only $54.99 but its only 12mo... i guess you can call back and renew it on the 11th mo... i'm just guessing but i dont think any Vz market acticually pays $100+ for the Highest Data package. i think its just listed on the website to get ppl to go for the lower packages... dont know why...

but yea unless you got tons of data that you UPload 20/20 is crazy but i dont know of any other residential broadband company that has that high of an upload capacity that high... can any one on this board name another company??

yea 30/5 in VA is only $54.99 but its only 12mo... i guess you can call back and renew it on the 11th mo... i'm just guessing but i dont think any Vz market acticually pays $100+ for the Highest Data package. i think its just listed on the website to get ppl to go for the lower packages... dont know why...

but yea unless you got tons of data that you UPload 20/20 is crazy but i dont know of any other residential broadband company that has that high of an upload capacity that high... can any one on this board name another company??

I was just thinking about this. I have the 20/5 in Mass, and the technogeek in me immediately started making plans to get this when it's available. I do have times I send large amounts of data, but most of the time you want large download capacity. Can't complain about this though, and I would probably get this just to see the impact. 5 Mbit upload is plenty fast, would probably like 30 or 50 / 5 more, but I am impressed. Now I have to come up with reasons for 20 Mbit upload speed.

Some FiOS-related postings in Fred's HOTP thread:

Cable360AM — News briefing for Friday, Oct. 19
DirecTV and Dish Hit 75 HD Nets; Parsons Exit Rumor Boosts TW
NHL Network levels the playing ice for HD on satellite TV; UK report that Dick Parsons is stepping down helps stock price; and more Monday news.
By Shirley Brady Cable360.net News briefing for Monday, Oct. 29 »

...

DirecTV slotted the NHL Network HD on channel 215, bringing its HD tally to 75 and even with EchoStar's latest HD channel count on Dish Network, which just launched the high-def hockey channel. Charter Communications will add the channel next month in "select" markets including St. Louis. More details here: http://www.cable360.net/competition/dbs/26338.html

Verizon's third quarter profit dropped 34%, while revenue increased 5.8% over 3Q06. It added 202,000 net new FiOS TV customers, for 717,000 total FiOS TV subscriptions, by the end of the quarter. It now counts more than 1.5 million total video customers including its DirecTV partnership, which added a net of 85,000 customers in the quarter. The company also reported 229,000 net new FiOS Internet customers for 1.3 million total, and 8 million total broadband connections between FiOS Internet and DSL.

The FCC is planning to strike down exclusive arrangements between cable operators and apartment building management companies at the agency's open commission meeting on Wednesday. "Exclusive contracts have been one of the most significant barriers to competition,” FCC chairman Kevin Martin comments in this morning's New York Times, adding that cable prices have risen “about 93% in the last 10 years. This is a way to introduce additional competition, which will result in lower prices and greater innovation."

Cablevision announced its 2008 "price adjustment" or rate hike late Friday night.

AT&T's U-verse battle in Connecticut will be determined by state superior court judge Robert F. McWeeny, who held a hearing Friday and intends to issue a ruling "soon," reports The Republican-American.

...

http://www.cable360.net/technology/news/26341.html

The 2007-2008 Season
Verizon's FiOS TV Bulks Up on Subs in 3rd Qtr.
By Anthony Crupi MediaWeek October 29, 2007

Verizon is breathing down cable’s neck with its FiOS TV fiber-optic video service, adding 202,000 new subscribers in the third quarter of 2007, for a total of 717,000 as of Sept. 30.

Since Verizon first launched the service two years ago, FiOS TV now passes 4.7 million households in various parts of 12 states, including: California, Delaware, Florida, Indiana Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas and Virginia.

At least one analyst believes that the $18 billion FiOS TV initiative will have at least 2 million subs lined up by the end of 2008, which would in effect make Verizon the ninth-largest video provider in the U.S., behind Comcast, DirecTV, Time Warner Cable, DISH Network, Cox Communications, Charter Communications, Cablevision and Bright House Networks.

Verizon has been particularly aggressive in targeting communities serviced by Cablevision, offering FiOS TV in 130 New York towns, the majority of which are located on the MSO’s home turf of Long Island.

The telco has also made inroads into several Comcast systems, although the cable giant has said that it hasn’t felt the pinch just yet. During Comcast’s third-quarter earnings call last Thursday (Oct. 25), COO and president Steve Burke said, “Verizon was slightly more competitive [than AT&T], but not all that much on video.”

Last week, AT&T reported that it has signed on 126,000 U-Verse video customers, up from around 50,000 in July.

On Monday, The New York Times reported that the Federal Communications Commission was planning to put an end to the exclusive contracts between cable operators and apartment building owners that have served to shut out potential competitors like Verizon and AT&T.

Verizon has said that FiOS passes some 2.1 million apartment units in its 12-state footprint, but under the present exclusivity deals, the telco is able to market the fiber-optic service to less than one-fifth of them.

http://www.mediaweek.com/mw/news/recent_display.jsp?vnu_content_id=1003664681

Looks like Verizon is on pace for a million subs by the new year and will apparently be increasing sign-ups if they plan to gain another million by the end of 2008. Verizon is also on pace with previous projections that they'd tap about 1/4th of their available audience. Also of note is the incredibly high percentage of FiOS broadband-to-TV subscribers and the comparatively paultry number of subs subscribing to D* for TV (given that D* is available to every Verizon High Speed Internet customer, FiOS or DSL).

A little perspective for the doomsayers.

Some FiOS-related postings in Fred's HOTP thread:





Looks like Verizon is on pace for a million subs sometime in January, and will apparently be increasing sign-ups if they plan to hit 2 million by the end of 2008.

A little perspective for the doomsayers.

Thanks for the update. This Wednesday's FCC ruling on exclusivity will be great news.

Anyone else here lose all of their DVR recordings when Verizon updated the software overnight? Under DVR, the 'Recorded Programs' section says 'empty'. Which is strange because when I look under the 'disk usage' area, it shows mostly full.

Anyone else here lose all of their DVR recordings when Verizon updated the software overnight? Under DVR, the 'Recorded Programs' section says 'empty'. Which is strange because when I look under the 'disk usage' area, it shows mostly full.

Ohh, that is truly ugly! That would have definitely ticked me off if it had happened to me. :(

I had a problem with the DVR as well. In my case it showed what was recorded but when I tried to play anything the screen would go blank and then return to the DVR screen. I had to unplug the DVR for 30 seconds to correct it. Another thing I noticed is that the time stamp doesn't appear to be working.

The new guide in general is really a joke.

I had a problem with the DVR as well. In my case it showed what was recorded but when I tried to play anything the screen would go blank and then return to the DVR screen. I had to unplug the DVR for 30 seconds to correct it. Another thing I noticed is that the time stamp doesn't appear to be working.

The new guide in general is really a joke.

Are you talking about the IMG or the 'future patch' to fix the IMG? I thought the fixer patch wasn't due until December at the earliest.

Are you talking about the IMG or the 'future patch' to fix the IMG?

I'm in Garland Texas and they just downloaded the new guide last night. So I guess it is the original.

I think we have to get the original version of the IMG before they push out the "fix" for it.

Only problem we had was a missed recording this afternoon on my wife's soap. I haven't quite figured that out yet, but I'm going to have it record the series on the SD channel tomorrow to see if that works. House recorded just fine this evening.

I like the look of the new guide. Aside from the recording issues, it seems to work pretty well. The search function is really nice.

I think we have to get the original version of the IMG before they push out the "fix" for it.

Only problem we had was a missed recording this afternoon on my wife's soap. I haven't quite figured that out yet, but I'm going to have it record the series on the SD channel tomorrow to see if that works. House recorded just fine this evening.

I like the look of the new guide. Aside from the recording issues, it seems to work pretty well. The search function is really nice.


How much different does it look?

It's pretty, but the world of FiOS would be a better place if Verizon hadn't dumped Microsoft.

http://www.microsoftmediaroom.com/

Thread over on dslreports says Fios will get 8 new HD channels in the middle of November.

http://www.dslreports.com/forum/r19355911-Verizon-soon-to-add-HD-channels

Specifically mentioned:

TBS HD
USA HD
FX HD
Discovery Channel HD
The Science Channel HD
TLC HD
Animal Planet HD
The History Channel HD

Don't know if this guy is right or not, but it has a ring of truth to it.

Don't know if this guy is right or not, but it has a ring of truth to it.

Seems to me like the poster is a fraud. I'll pretend I never read it.

Seems to me like the poster is a fraud. I'll pretend I never read it.

I wish I could have the time back that I spent reading it.

Thread over on dslreports says Fios will get 8 new HD channels in the middle of November.

http://www.dslreports.com/forum/r19355911-Verizon-soon-to-add-HD-channels

Specifically mentioned:

TBS HD
USA HD
FX HD
Discovery Channel HD
The Science Channel HD
TLC HD
Animal Planet HD
The History Channel HD

Don't know if this guy is right or not, but it has a ring of truth to it.

Don't believe it. As I've said before, the less you read or believe these rumors the better off you'll be.

[QUOTE]Originally Posted by arnoldevns View Post
Thread over on dslreports says Fios will get 8 new HD channels in the middle of November.

http://www.dslreports.com/forum/r193...dd-HD-channels

Specifically mentioned:

TBS HD
USA HD
FX HD
Discovery Channel HD
The Science Channel HD
TLC HD
Animal Planet HD
The History Channel HD





That wasn't true.It was all made up.Some people get off in the strangest ways!

Thread over on dslreports says Fios will get 8 new HD channels in the middle of November.

http://www.dslreports.com/forum/r19355911-Verizon-soon-to-add-HD-channels

Specifically mentioned:

TBS HD
USA HD
FX HD
Discovery Channel HD
The Science Channel HD
TLC HD
Animal Planet HD
The History Channel HD

Don't know if this guy is right or not, but it has a ring of truth to it.
We will eventually get those channels. The only question is when. ;)

June-August 2008 at the earliest is my best guess.

There's no way its going to take that long.They would be setting themselves up for failure.All the money there dumping into this technology and to screw it up with some hd channels.We should see more by the end of the year.I think they will add just enough to keep people singing up.

I just got an automated call from vz/fios about the upcoming IMG and that I should call 888 811-1371 for more info. after holding for about 1/2 an hour I finally got a rep. he informed me that my area (nassau county long island) will be getting the new guide either early next tuesday or thursday morning. I asked him if it was the original buggy one, or the new and improved version and he confirmed that it was the new one.

he also said that my hard drive should be no more than 50% full to avoid the possibility of having the content erased. I asked him about more hd channels and was told that thery won't be adding anymore channels until next year and that hd vod was something they were working on.

they're also working on the next gen dvr but didn't have any other info. I suggested that 500 gig drives were'nt that expensive, to which he said it was one of many good suggestions that vz is getting. he didn't know if it would be a free upgrade.

here's to aimee mann.

I asked him if it was the original buggy one, or the new and improved version and he confirmed that it was the new one.

he also said that my hard drive should be no more than 50% full to avoid the possibility of having the content erased.
The IMG that has been rolled out to Florida and Texas in the past week has been the current buggy one. I seriously doubt if you are going to get a new less buggy version. If it was "debugged", why would he suggest you get the recordings down to less than 50% of capacity? Interesting that they are making that recommendation. No way that critical info will get to most of their subscribers in the NY, NJ, PA area, some of whom will lose some if not all of their recordings. If Verizon knows they have bad software, why keep pushing it out? :rolleyes: Verizon has stumbled badly between the deficient IMG and falling way behind DirecTV on adding HD channels.

Is the honeymoon over?

I used to wish for FiOS to be available here, but it sounds like there's no hurry with the delay on new HD (and with the channels Comcast has added and is about to add.)

Hopefully once FiOS can add more HD, they will add dozens of new channels within the first couple of months like D* did. Sounds like they will have plenty of time to make carriage agreements. Although Comcast MIGHT have SDV in place and a ton of HD channels by then (unless they think more On Demand is just as good:rolleyes:).

There's no way its going to take that long.They would be setting themselves up for failure.All the money there dumping into this technology and to screw it up with some hd channels.We should see more by the end of the year.I think they will add just enough to keep people singing up.

Verizon has more actual HD right now than any cable company, even when we include those company's announced plans for new channels, except Cablevision. Cablevision only has an advantage because it has unique access to Voom. No cable company will significantly pass Verizon in the next year unless they've implemented SDV or cut off analog. And my guess is that any timetable for SDV/analog shutoff will probably be in tandem with Verizon's plans to shut off its analog channels anyway.

Verizon has said a "few" HD channels will come in Q4. We've gotten A&E (technically in Q3, if I recall correctly). Discovery says that Verizon has carriage for its four nets beyond HD Theatre. History HD content has popped up on the HD-VOD in the areas where that is being tested.

Anything beyond those channels is, for the moment, pie in the sky, and Verizon has confirmed nothing with regard to activing those five channels as it stands. If you're expected 8-10 channels by the end of the year, you will almost surely be disappointed. If you're expecting 3 or 4, that would at least seem in line with Verizon's previous statements.

Verizon has stated that its analog shutoff would occur in Spring 2008, but given the FCC notice requirements before Verizon can actually disconnect analog, it seems unlikely that it can occur 6 months prior to receiving some kind of mailing from Verizon (and technically the FCC rule mandates a year's notice, but I'm assuming that the FCC would be willing to let "reasonable" notice suffice). Unless we get those mailings by the end of the year/early January, Spring seems highly optimistic (if not downright misleading). Summer 2008 seems likely, unless there's been some kind of delay.

Of course, technically speaking, since Verizon is building out its QAM capacity everywhere, it's possible that we could get another handful of 5-10 HD channels prior to the analog cutoff. But no statements have been made to suggest this will happen ahead of the cutoff (although if the cutoff is delayed, I'd hope we'd here something like this).

In regards to analog shutoff - I've had FIOS for about 3 weeks now and when I was set up it was made clear to me that I needed a box on each set or I'd only a dozen or so analogs...there are about 40 analog channels but most of them are local access so basically useless. I'm in Massachusetts. Since we're a bit behind some of the other regions is it possible that they're only rolling out all-digital service to us while grandfathering in the rest of the regions?

http://biz.yahoo.com/prnews/071101/nyth108.html?.v=101

"Verizon FiOS TV customers will get even more of the high-definition content they love as Verizon today announced plans for a fivefold increase in the number of HD channels, to 150 channels, as well as plans for offering additional HD content through FiOS TV's video-on-demand service."

In regards to analog shutoff - I've had FIOS for about 3 weeks now and when I was set up it was made clear to me that I needed a box on each set or I'd only a dozen or so analogs...there are about 40 analog channels but most of them are local access so basically useless. I'm in Massachusetts. Since we're a bit behind some of the other regions is it possible that they're only rolling out all-digital service to us while grandfathering in the rest of the regions?

No. Analog shutoff will replace those analog feeds with digital feeds. You'll need a box on every TV.

To compensate, Verizon is releasing a low-end featureless STB that will cost only a nominal fee.

http://biz.yahoo.com/prnews/071101/nyth108.html?.v=101

"Verizon FiOS TV customers will get even more of the high-definition content they love as Verizon today announced plans for a fivefold increase in the number of HD channels, to 150 channels, as well as plans for offering additional HD content through FiOS TV's video-on-demand service."

Still 6-8 months away. I really would like to see 5-6 HD channels added now and some HD-VOD in the meantime. That would get me by until then.

News
Verizon: 150 HD Channels In 2008
The telco answers charges that it's been slow on high-def.
By Swanni

Washington, D.C. (November 1, 2007) -- Verizon today said it would increase its FiOS High-Definition lineup by fivefold in 2008 to 150 channels.

In addition, the telco said it would expand its HD VOD service and launch a "major expansion" of sports and multicultural programming next year.

"Once more, Verizon leads the way," Shawn Strickland, Verizon's vice president of video solutions, said in a statement. We launched FiOS TV in 2005 with more HD than most cable and satellite companies, and we know that our HD customers expect us to continue that lead. We're planning a major initiative in 2008 that will give our customers an unprecedented choice of HD and other programming."

Verizon, which now has more than 700,000 subscribers to its FiOX TV service, has come under fire recently for not adding new HD channels, such as TBS HD which broadcast first and second round action in this year's baseball playoffs.

And while the telco appeared to be dragging its feet on high-def, satcasters DIRECTV and EchoStar (and some cable operators) were expanding their HD lineups, escalating customer concerns.

But Verizon today said it will begin expanding its HD lineup in the spring of 2008. Initially, it said, it will double the lineup to 60 HD channels, including additional sports channels.

The telco said it expects to have more than 150 HD channels by the end of 2008.
"FiOS TV delivers a true HD experience," Strickland said. "Unlike some other service providers, Verizon doesn't compromise quality by compressing programming into limited bandwidth. Our fiber-optic network has the capacity to deliver programming the way programmers intended it to be seen."

In addition to the expanded HD channel lineup, Verizon said it expects to increase its HD VOD lineup to more than 1,000 HD titles in 2008.

Verizon initially will double the current number of HD channels, on a market-by-market basis, to more than 60, including additional sports channels.

Sounds like they will add several RSNs and sports packages. (They are probably using the D* and E* counting method.)

How 'bout going to straight to the horses mouth instead of that hack.

http://newscenter.verizon.com/press-releases/verizon/2007/verizon-plans-fivefold.html

NEW YORK - Verizon FiOS TV customers will get even more of the high-definition content they love as Verizon today announced plans for a fivefold increase in the number of HD channels, to 150 channels, as well as plans for offering additional HD content through FiOS TV's video-on-demand service. Verizon is also planning a major expansion of sports and multicultural programming on FiOS TV in 2008.

"Once more, Verizon leads the way," said Shawn Strickland, vice president - video solutions. "We launched FiOS TV in 2005 with more HD than most cable and satellite companies, and we know that our HD customers expect us to continue that lead. We're planning a major initiative in 2008 that will give our customers an unprecedented choice of HD and other programming."

Verizon customers already enjoy the most amazing picture quality available over the nation's most advanced digital all-fiber optic network.

In the spring of 2008, Verizon will begin expanding its HD lineup as well as the sports and multicultural program offerings on FiOS TV. Verizon initially will double the current number of HD channels, on a market-by-market basis, to more than 60, including additional sports channels. Verizon expects to have more than 150 HD channels by year-end 2008 as it continues to add to its HD lineup and programmers launch new channels. The company also will add standard-definition sports, multicultural and other programming during the year.

True HD Experience

Because Verizon offers FiOS TV on its fiber-to-the-home network, Verizon has the capacity to provide HD programming without compressing the signal it receives from the programmers.

"FiOS TV delivers a true HD experience," Strickland said. "Unlike some other service providers, Verizon doesn't compromise quality by compressing programming into limited bandwidth. Our fiber-optic network has the capacity to deliver programming the way programmers intended it to be seen."

In addition to the expanded HD channel lineup, Verizon will offer HD programming through its industry-leading video-on-demand library, which already totals more than 10,000 titles. Before the end of 2007, Verizon expects to introduce a limited number of HD on-demand titles, which will increase to more than 1,000 HD titles in 2008.

During 2008, Verizon also will expand the reach of HD programming throughout the home. Through enhancements to the Verizon-exclusive Home Media DVR service, customers will be able to record HD shows and watch them from any room in the house with an HDTV and an HD set-top box.

Thats great news. I've been hesitant to place my order for FIOS TV, I just hope they don't start pushing the date further and further out

If they've got a way in for MLB Extra Innings... they're going to get my business.

The good news is that I was able to receive confirmation today that a few new HD channels will be added before the end of 2007. There will be an announcement on that soon but I was not given a specific date. I was also not able to confirm whether they were national channels or RSN's but my guess is thatb they will be the Discovery networks discussed previously. The real push will be in the spring. Nevertheless, this news is still better than a stick in the eye.

Wow! A real conundrum! Wait until they add HD and fix their crumy DVR or buy a TivoHD to use instead or jump ship back to D* and their HD lineup and their brand DVR. What to do!? Anyone here come over from D* and their new DVR and lineup???

News
Verizon: 150 HD Channels In 2008

I hope they do a better job adding the HD then they did changing the IMG.

The good news is that I was able to receive confirmation today that a few new HD channels will be added before the end of 2007. There will be an announcement on that soon but I was not given a specific date. I was also not able to confirm whether they were national channels or RSN's but my guess is thatb they will be the Discovery networks discussed previously. The real push will be in the spring. Nevertheless, this news is still better than a stick in the eye.
Stick in the eye? Well, I guess that is one way to describe the IMG roll-out. :D

On dslreports, former Verizonman posted today that according to his contacts at Verizon that they will be adding a few more national HD channels in a few weeks. Discovery HD will be one of them. He also wrote that CSN MA HD will also finally be added in a few weeks as well to MD and Northern VA, longer for the "outlying" CSN MA territories (which I take to mean the rest of VA). These rumors/reports of a few more HD channels coming before the end of 2007 have been persistent. We will see what they add.

I hope they add SciFi HD.

I just got the IMG and can no longer get into the DVR option menu (not the IMG menu). I used to be able to get into the DVR menu (power off, press menu) to change the audio output i.e. LPCM, bitstream, etc.

Is there a different way to get into this menu or is it no longer available with the IMG upgrade?

I just got the IMG and can no longer get into the DVR option menu (not the IMG menu). I used to be able to get into the DVR menu (power off, press menu) to change the audio output i.e. LPCM, bitstream, etc.

Is there a different way to get into this menu or is it no longer available with the IMG upgrade?
The setup menu is still there, just an extra step needed. Turn the 6416 off, press Select, then press menu on the remote or front panel. Pressing Select twice still gets you to the Diagnostic menus.

On dslreports, former Verizonman posted today that according to his contacts at Verizon that they will be adding a few more national HD channels in a few weeks. Discovery HD will be one of them. He also wrote that CSN MA HD will also finally be added in a few weeks as well to MD and Northern VA, longer for the "outlying" CSN MA territories (which I take to mean the rest of VA). These rumors/reports of a few more HD channels coming before the end of 2007 have been persistent. We will see what they add.
If that is true, FiOS can have up until 2009 to add the rest of the HD channels for all I care. I am trying to contain my excitement, even thought it is just a rumor.

He also wrote that CSN MA HD will also finally be added in a few weeks as well to MD and Northern VA, longer for the "outlying" CSN MA territories (which I take to mean the rest of VA).


Great! Just what I came here to find out. Thanks.

He also wrote that CSN MA HD will also finally be added in a few weeks as well to MD and Northern VA, longer for the "outlying" CSN MA territories (which I take to mean the rest of VA).

Why only MD & NoVA?
Once they have it and can send it over optical, why can't they send it down the wire to the rest of VA - Richmond & Tidewater?

Why only MD & NoVA?
Once they have it and can send it over optical, why can't they send it down the wire to the rest of VA - Richmond & Tidewater?

Because we seem to always be the odd men out when it comes to Fios and HD(Hampton Roads lacks all the locals in HD still).

Really though, I believe it is a blackout issue. They are unable to do only regionalized blackouts(such as, might blacked out in DC/MD, but not here and vice versa). It has to do w/how they get and deliver the feed.

According to Verizon's Gierczynski, "We expect that FSN Pittsburgh HD and Versus HD will be available by early next year as we continue to enhance our channel offerings."

http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/07306/830377-238.stm

Wow! A real conundrum! Wait until they add HD and fix their crumy DVR or buy a TivoHD to use instead or jump ship back to D* and their HD lineup and their brand DVR. What to do!? Anyone here come over from D* and their new DVR and lineup???

I am kind of in the same boat. Currently have DirecTV without HD and get my HD from local cable company (BELD - Braintree Electric Light Department). BELD is very slow at adding HD, they still don't have ESPN2 or NFL Network like everyone else. I want to switch everything to FIOS or everything to DirecTV...but cannot decide which way to go.

Go with FIOS and deal with current glitches and their growing pains...but get great picture include their non-HD channels.

Stay with DTV and add HD. Will cost me $$ for three HD boxes unless retention will give me a good deal. Get locked in for another 2 yr. commitment. HD quality worse then FIOS? Average SD picture.

What to do, what to do? Anyone know if the new DTV HD channels are as compressed as they were before the new satellite?

Because we seem to always be the odd men out when it comes to Fios and HD(Hampton Roads lacks all the locals in HD still).

Really though, I believe it is a blackout issue. They are unable to do only regionalized blackouts(such as, might blacked out in DC/MD, but not here and vice versa). It has to do w/how they get and deliver the feed.

i know man, i really want CW. but after Smallville this season, i probably won't have much reason to watch. i think it's the only show i watch on that channel.

Stick in the eye? Well, I guess that is one way to describe the IMG roll-out. :D

On dslreports, former Verizonman posted today that according to his contacts at Verizon that they will be adding a few more national HD channels in a few weeks. Discovery HD will be one of them. .

I'm not going to fall for that rumor again......I just checked my guide 3 times in the last five minutes and NOTHING!!! I guess I'll keep checking :)

Wow! A real conundrum! Wait until they add HD and fix their crumy DVR or buy a TivoHD to use instead or jump ship back to D* and their HD lineup and their brand DVR. What to do!? Anyone here come over from D* and their new DVR and lineup???

I have my D* account suspended and am on the "fence" regarding which way to go. With FIOS I have RSN and great PQ on most stations. I am going to wait and see what happens over the next 4 month or so. Both services have their pluses and minuses.

I am kind of in the same boat. Currently have DirecTV without HD and get my HD from local cable company (BELD - Braintree Electric Light Department). BELD is very slow at adding HD, they still don't have ESPN2 or NFL Network like everyone else. I want to switch everything to FIOS or everything to DirecTV...but cannot decide which way to go.

Go with FIOS and deal with current glitches and their growing pains...but get great picture include their non-HD channels.

Stay with DTV and add HD. Will cost me $$ for three HD boxes unless retention will give me a good deal. Get locked in for another 2 yr. commitment. HD quality worse then FIOS? Average SD picture.

What to do, what to do? Anyone know if the new DTV HD channels are as compressed as they were before the new satellite?


The way I've heard it, there are two flavors of DTV HD:

1. The pre-existing DTV HD channels are MPEG2, and include ESPN, ESPN2, HDNET, HBO (east), etc...

2. The newly added HD channels, which are MPEG4, including SciFi, etc.

The MPEG2 are talked about as HD lite, are bit starved and provide noticeably worse picture quality (PQ) than the MPEG4, which are very close to over the air (OTA). OTA is the highest quality possible, as it's broadcast without compression.

Some people have done measurements in other forums which show that the MPEG4 DTV channels, although high quality, are doing some compression. This may not show up on your HD TV, depending on the size of the screen.

The MPEG2 channels are not going to be transitioned soon to MPEG4, maybe not until the next DTV satellite goes up. This means that for the short term (don't know when the next satellite goes up) channels like ESPN, ESPN2 and HDNET, which are some of my favorites, will remain in HD lite.

FIOS HD channels are uncompressed, so you get OTA quality in both HD and SD. I get HDNET, ESPN... in very high quality. I also get the local channels in that quality. I notice you're from Mass, so I can tell you that I've become hooked on Channel 5's Chronicle program since it's done in HD. NESN (New England Sports Channel) is also on FIOS HD.

I faced the same issue with DTV (5 years as a customer), I had 3 DirectTivo boxes and talked to DTV about upgrading. They didn't make much of an effort to cut down on the expenses, and I couldn't take the extra fees they leveraged on HD customers which FIOS doesn't have.

I'll be patient and ride it out with FIOS. The glitches don't outweigh the great quality, I get the HD channels I want (I like sports) and the customer service has been great.

My advice is to look at the channels you want to watch in HD, see which are in HD lite, which are in MPEG4, and make your decision.

How much longer will it take? I want those eventual 150 HD channels! :D

i know man, i really want CW. but after Smallville this season, i probably won't have much reason to watch. i think it's the only show i watch on that channel.

What bugs me is they had an agreement for it in place before even launching Fios in our area nearly a year ago and it is still not online. I do know they've run the fiber and worked in WGNT's studio, so they are working on it.

Of course today I turn on and we have 3 local PEGs w/colored bars on 45-47. And they show up on analog as well....isn't analog supposed to go away before long on Fios.

How 'bout going to straight to the horses mouth instead of that hack.

http://newscenter.verizon.com/press-releases/verizon/2007/verizon-plans-fivefold.html

NEW YORK - Verizon FiOS TV customers will get even more of the high-definition content they love as Verizon today announced plans for a fivefold increase in the number of HD channels, to 150 channels, as well as plans for offering additional HD content through FiOS TV's video-on-demand service.
Oh happy day! And more so that we don't have to listen to the incessant whining here over the FiOS rollout of additional HD channels. :)

For those of you served by the Philadelphia VHO (Yes South Jersey, that includes you), I have seen an indication that the IMG will be rolled out on or about the 13th. We've been given inserts about the IPG to include with the "NEW" Mercury FiOS TV Welcome Packets. We were told to use the inserts until the 13th.

BTW I found a memo today in my truck advising the field technicians of the new IMG rolling out in April ('07 that is). :(

-Jim

I just posted your comment on the Phily Verizon thread with a link back to here. http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=792568&page=20

Two days without a post around here? Now that we have the facts from Verizon and don't have to rely on rumors, opinions and predictions of doom, is the crowd stunned into silence? :eek:

What else is there to say until the channels either appear or don't appear by year's end?

http://biz.yahoo.com/prnews/071101/nyth108.html?.v=101

"Verizon FiOS TV customers will get even more of the high-definition content they love as Verizon today announced plans for a fivefold increase in the number of HD channels, to 150 channels, as well as plans for offering additional HD content through FiOS TV's video-on-demand service."

All the new HD channels just in time for the writers strike.

Two days without a post around here? Now that we have the facts from Verizon and don't have to rely on rumors, opinions and predictions of doom, is the crowd stunned into silence? :eek:

doom? you mean the people who say nothing much will happen for a while. I guess they've been proven correct.

as for the people who didn't want to wait and left, well, I don't blame them either.

now that we've been told in effect "wait til next year", not much left to say is there?

doom? you mean the people who say nothing much will happen for a while. I guess they've been proven correct.

as for the people who didn't want to wait and left, well, I don't blame them either.

now that we've been told in effect "wait til next year", not much left to say is there?

I guess the rumors of the 4-Discovery HD channels ain't gonna' happen anytime soon?

doom? you mean the people who say nothing much will happen for a while. I guess they've been proven correct.
Doom as in the demise of FiOS as everyone ditches them for D* and their bevy of HD selections.


now that we've been told in effect "wait til next year", not much left to say is there?
What about the positives? ;)

What about the positives? ;)

by this time next year, we'll probably have the hd channels D* has now. and the IMG will have different bugs.

:D

I guess the rumors of the 4-Discovery HD channels ain't gonna' happen anytime soon?

I don't see it that way. I think they may indeed add those 4 and a few others before the end of THIS year. I think they're trying to get the IMG roll-out and IMG fix done before they add those channels though. Some have been told by customer service that the 4 are expected within a month. There's no way to tell how reliable that information is. However, the announcement of 150 HD channels is certainly a good indication that such a thing might indeed happen sooner rather than later.

I was told by the Verizon press liason that there will be about 5 new HD channels added before the end on 2007.

I don't see it that way. I think they may indeed add those 4 and a few others before the end of THIS year. I think they're trying to get the IMG roll-out and IMG fix done before they add those channels though. Some have been told by customer service that the 4 are expected within a month. There's no way to tell how reliable that information is.
The reports that a few more HD channels, consisting of Discovery HD and presumably the other Discovery channels, would be added this year have been persistent. I just did a QAM channel scan and found that a new QAM channel has been added at QAM 75. It is carrying two local stations in Northern VA, the MHz stations (WNVT-DT 30 and WNVC-DT 57) which have 8 unique SD sub-channels between them. There was nothing at QAM 75 a week ago.

MY previous scans found only 54 QAM channels, so this is consistent with bfdtv's posts that Verizon is adding equipment for additional QAM channels at the "older" COs. The limit is 63 QAMs for now until they yank the 40 analog channels (with the combined limit of 103 channels out of 135 until they upgrade all the COs and head ends). Some of the "extra" QAMs are used elsewhere for the dual set of HD locals and probably HD RSNs. If they can add 3 QAMs for national channels, for example, that gives them the room for 6 HD channels. I'll have to scan every few days to see if new QAM channels suddenly show up.

BTW, for those in the Washington Metro area, the four Ion channels are now at 891 to 894 and 7 Mhz sub-channels are at 912 to 918 (suggesting where they plan to move the SD broadcast sub-channels in the future?), but they are not shown in the guide.

BTW, for those in the Washington Metro area, the four Ion channels are now at 891 to 894 and 7 Mhz sub-channels are at 912 to 918 (suggesting where they plan to move the SD broadcast sub-channels in the future?), but they are not shown in the guide.

Actually, Tivo just sent an updated channel listing out with all those local changes.

Is there a reason anyone would care about these new locals though?

Is there a reason anyone would care about these new locals though?
There are people who watch the Ion network. The MHz channels carry overseas programming, so if you want to catch up on the news in Russia in Russian or watch programs in Japanese, you can do that.

BTW, Verizon has added a CBS folder to the Broadcast Primetime folder to go with NBC and Sci-Fi on the VOD line-up. It has only 1 program, the most recent CSI episode, at the moment. The Sci-Fi folder also has only 1 program, a Ghost Hunters episode. Presumably these are placeholders for adding adding more material for other series and episodes soon. Have to check periodically to see if a ABC, Fox, USA or other folders are added. These are all SD, so they are not of much use to me until Verizon adds HD VOD.

There are people who watch the Ion network. The MHz channels carry overseas programming, so if you want to catch up on the news in Russia in Russian or watch programs in Japanese, you can do that.

BTW, Verizon has added a CBS folder to the Broadcast Primetime folder to go with NBC and Sci-Fi on the VOD line-up. It has only 1 program, the most recent CSI episode, at the moment. The Sci-Fi folder also has only 1 program, a Ghost Hunters episode. Presumably these are placeholders for adding adding more material for other series and episodes soon. Have to check periodically to see if a ABC, Fox, USA or other folders are added. These are all SD, so they are not of much use to me until Verizon adds HD VOD.

USA has been there in the past, they had episodes of Monk and Psych during the summer seasons. I can't recall where they were, it was not under Broadcast Primetime though.

sorry if this has been covered but there are just way too many posts in this thread. we just got fios installed and while we are happy overall, we are not satisfied with the on demand content. specifically, it doesn't have all of the recent cbs shows like comcast did, and not in HD. does anyone know if they plan to expand their on demand lineup anytime soon?

sorry if this has been covered but there are just way too many posts in this thread. we just got fios installed and while we are happy overall, we are not satisfied with the on demand content. specifically, it doesn't have all of the recent cbs shows like comcast did, and not in HD. does anyone know if they plan to expand their on demand lineup anytime soon?

Supposedly they are working on it

There are people who watch the Ion network. The MHz channels carry overseas programming, so if you want to catch up on the news in Russia in Russian or watch programs in Japanese, you can do that.

BTW, Verizon has added a CBS folder to the Broadcast Primetime folder to go with NBC and Sci-Fi on the VOD line-up. It has only 1 program, the most recent CSI episode, at the moment. The Sci-Fi folder also has only 1 program, a Ghost Hunters episode. Presumably these are placeholders for adding adding more material for other series and episodes soon. Have to check periodically to see if a ABC, Fox, USA or other folders are added. These are all SD, so they are not of much use to me until Verizon adds HD VOD.

Is there any word on when they wil offer HD On demand? That is the only reason I have their HD STB. It is useless for me right now. I use 3 Series 3 tivos and 1 TiVoHD for everything else. I'm still curious what my billing will look like since I now have 8 cable cards and one HD STB. I thought their billing limit was 7 devices with each cable card being counted as one device.

Is there any word on when they wil offer HD On demand? That is the only reason I have their HD STB. It is useless for me right now. I use 3 Series 3 tivos and 1 TiVoHD for everything else. I'm still curious what my billing will look like since I now have 8 cable cards and one HD STB. I thought their billing limit was 7 devices with each cable card being counted as one device.

They are running a trial for those of us in Richmond and Hampton Roads. Can't tell you anything beyond that, but it works well.

in fact Vz has expanded the HD VOD offerings here. programming from Fearnet added to the HD Trial folder, a few more pay HD movies, and now HBO-HD on demand. just three movies so far but i have to think they're getting closer to adding HD VOD in other markets.

my guess is they want to make absolutely sure HD VOD doesn't compromise internet speeds before making it widely available.

I just did a QAM channel scan and found that a new QAM channel has been added at QAM 75.

How do you do a "QAM channel scan"?:)

I have a Sony SAT-HD300 and a HR10-250 (both DirecTV receivers, both have an OTA digital tuner). Can I use either of these? You mentioned a Samsung ATSC/QAM tuner in your QAM analysis thread at DSL reports. Can I use either of these instead?

How do you do a "QAM channel scan"?:)

I have a Sony SAT-HD300 and a HR10-250 (both DirecTV receivers, both have an OTA digital tuner). Can I use either of these? You mentioned a Samsung ATSC/QAM tuner in your QAM analysis thread at DSL reports. Can I use either of these instead?
I doubt if either DirecTV receiver have QAM capability. No reason for them to provide that. If your TV has a ATSC tuner, it may also do QAM. Most ATSC tuners also provide a clear QAM tuner capability. Hook up the Fios cable and do a digital QAM channel scan.

In my case, I have 2 Samsung STB ATSC/QAM tuners and a Sony HDD250 DVR which were brought for OTA reception. I've been using the newer Samsung DTB-H260F ATSC tuner to do scans of the Fios signal because it can go up to QAM 135. My scan turns up a huge number of QAM sub-channels, some 450 now, from the 55 QAM channels that are currently active, so it is rather large set to plow through. Some 80 of those sub-channels are music channels, so these are not all TV channels.

I can only watch the clear channels which are the locals and the music channels. BTW, most of the HD DC stations are mapped to their broadcast channel: 4-1, 5-1, 7-1, 7-2, and so on. All the national channels are encrypted so there is no picture for those. A cable card (or Fios box) is needed to get the encrypted channels (and a TV or box that can handle cable cards). If you want to do a scan, here is the latest breakdown I get here in northern VA, which appears to be the same elsewhere for the nationals while the locals are in the same 63 to 75+ block.

55-62: national SD channels
63-68: unencrypted local SD channels with Music Choice set on QAM 66
69-70: Not used
71-75: unencrypted local HD and SD channels
76-82: not used
83-94: national SD and HD channels (unencrypted Urge Radio channels on QAM 84)
95-102: not used
103-126: national SD and HD channels

It would be helpful if someone in the Mercer County, NJ area with the 14 HD locals were to do a QAM scan and report back here where the HD locals are and how many QAM channels they have total.

I thought their billing limit was 7 devices with each cable card being counted as one device.

I don't think it's as much of a billing issue as it is a equipment limitation issue. It may just be an unknowing CSR. There is a way to have more than 7 STB's without adding an additional ONT.

I know of a couple techs in South Jersey that have done upwards of 14 STB's with one ONT on a couple of occasions. (a Philadelphia sports figure in particular)

-Jim

I thought their billing limit was 7 devices with each cable card being counted as one device.

I have 8 CC's and a STB. The limit is in their ordering system, it's not a technical limit anywhere. They bought the ordering system, but built their own other systems.

The way around it is to tell them you want to drop a STB and add one other thing. Then when the tech calls to confirm, tell him what you really want.

This worked for me a couple of times now.

The theory on the reason is that having more than 7 (or some number of) VOD's at the same time would overload the ONT. But there are better ways to limit this, than to limit the number of devices I can have. Especially with CC's.

I have 8 CC's and a STB. The limit is in their ordering system, it's not a technical limit anywhere. They bought the ordering system, but built their own other systems.



The technical limit lies in the MOCA devices, any more than 7 then a NIM, low pass filter and most likely an amp need to be added to the system. Since the CC's aren't MOCA, you have no issue.

In my experience the problems with the ordering system usually ends up being the interface device that resides usually between the keyboard and the chair. :D

-Jim

a question that's sort of offtopic:

i have the triple play, or so i thought, phone, fios tv and internet. my tv and internet bills are bundled together, but the phone bill comes in the mail. the first phone bill was $80! something about $10 voicemail, taxes surcharges etc... with no mention of the triple play discounts. everytime i call billing, i'm on hold for 20 minutes, then get transfered to their e-support team and so on. who should i call to get this sorted out and have all charges on one bill? also, i'm in hampton roads and have the fios premier with 1 SD box, 1 DVR, fios 5/2 internet and freedom essentials phone. I was told over the phone that with my triple play, i'd be paying ~$120 ($25 data/$55tv/$45phone - $15 triple play) doesn't quite seem that way with the $80 phone bill.

a question that's sort of offtopic:

i have the triple play, or so i thought, phone, fios tv and internet. my tv and internet bills are bundled together, but the phone bill comes in the mail. the first phone bill was $80! something about $10 voicemail, taxes surcharges etc... with no mention of the triple play discounts. everytime i call billing, i'm on hold for 20 minutes, then get transfered to their e-support team and so on. who should i call to get this sorted out and have all charges on one bill? also, i'm in hampton roads and have the fios premier with 1 SD box, 1 DVR, fios 5/2 internet and freedom essentials phone. I was told over the phone that with my triple play, i'd be paying ~$120 ($25 data/$55tv/$45phone - $15 triple play) doesn't quite seem that way with the $80 phone bill.

There is a billing inquiry number on the paper version of the bill - I believe page 2 call it and keep saying billing issue. Eventually you'll get to the correct person. I had to do this yesterday b/c something happened to my triple play bill that increased it. They promptly issued a credit.

There is a billing inquiry number on the paper version of the bill - I believe page 2 call it and keep saying billing issue. Eventually you'll get to the correct person. I had to do this yesterday b/c something happened to my triple play bill that increased it. They promptly issued a credit.

thanks man. you probably saved me an hour of waiting.

The IMG guide doesn't list the NASA landing tomorrow, but it's on HDNet's web site: http://hd.net/program_search_results.html?keyword=nasa&whattosearch=both&ws=1
Wed, Nov 7 - 12:55 PM ET 9:55 AM PT
NASA on HDNet - LIVE! Space Shuttle Discovery STS-120 Landing

I setup a manual recording for 30 minutes. (DVR -> Add Recording -> manual recording). Note that if they wave-off the first attempt, the 2nd is about 90 minutes later.

a question that's sort of offtopic:

i have the triple play, or so i thought, phone, fios tv and internet. my tv and internet bills are bundled together, but the phone bill comes in the mail. the first phone bill was $80! something about $10 voicemail, taxes surcharges etc... with no mention of the triple play discounts. everytime i call billing, i'm on hold for 20 minutes, then get transfered to their e-support team and so on. who should i call to get this sorted out and have all charges on one bill? also, i'm in hampton roads and have the fios premier with 1 SD box, 1 DVR, fios 5/2 internet and freedom essentials phone. I was told over the phone that with my triple play, i'd be paying ~$120 ($25 data/$55tv/$45phone - $15 triple play) doesn't quite seem that way with the $80 phone bill.

If you are not happy with the customer service you are receiving you should obtain the 800 # for the corporate headquarters in NY and call them. They will take your number down and have a supervisor call you back. When that is offered make sure you pin them down to a time frame for the supervisor calling you back. That should speed things along you will get the results you want.

Just make sure you have you bills in front of you when you make the call and also a list on complaints you want them to take care of.

Jim

If you are not happy with the customer service you are receiving you should obtain the 800 # for the corporate headquarters in NY and call them. They will take your number down and have a supervisor call you back. When that is offered make sure you pin them down to a time frame for the supervisor calling you back. That should speed things along you will get the results you want.

Just make sure you have you bills in front of you when you make the call and also a list on complaints you want them to take care of.

Jim

thanks Jim.

If you are not happy with the customer service you are receiving you should obtain the 800 # for the corporate headquarters in NY and call them. They will take your number down and have a supervisor call you back. When that is offered make sure you pin them down to a time frame for the supervisor calling you back. That should speed things along you will get the results you want.

Just make sure you have you bills in front of you when you make the call and also a list on complaints you want them to take care of.

Jim

Better yet, tell them you'd like to file a presidential complaint and you'd like to know how to go about it.

-Jim

I doubt if either DirecTV receiver have QAM capability.Correct; they do not.

The DVR thought Ronin on HDNet was only an hour long! Zug!

Set to re-record for Sunday.

WOW...Discovery HD added on channel 846 here in S.Jersey....This is not HDT...YES!!!!!

This is ONE station i have been waiting for!!!!

WOW...Discovery HD added on channel 846 here in S.Jersey....This is not HDT...YES!!!!!

This is ONE station i have been waiting for!!!!DSCHD (846) was added today in most service areas and should be on all by Monday.

DSCHD (846) was added today in most service areas and should be on all by Monday.

1. Yes, great news! We have it here in SE Virginia.
2. Now, the question is: How is the average FiOS customer supposed to know that it has been added since there is no message saying that the new channel has been added? Without this forum, I would not have known.:confused:

I see 846 here in Northern VA and it is listed in the TiVo guide. ALthough no program data yet.

It's up in Central VA.

DSCHD (846) was added today in most service areas and should be on all by Monday.

Sorry for the really dumb question but I thought that I was already getting Discovery HD Theater on channel 836?

My Verizon PDF channel guide calls 836 "Discovery HD" but on the TV's online guide, it is called "HDT"

What is channel 846 going to add that is different?

Thanks

Here in Plano TX when tuned to 846 i get a parental lock notice. I have never set up parental lock. is that what it says when a chennel in not available or do i need to set it up to access it?

Sorry for the really dumb question but I thought that I was already getting Discovery HD Theater on channel 836?

My Verizon PDF channel guide calls 836 "Discovery HD" but on the TV's online guide, it is called "HDT"

What is channel 846 going to add that is different?Earlier this year, Discovery renamed Discovery HD Theater (836) to HD Theater. They did that because they didn't want it to be confused with Discovery Channel HD (846), which is a simulcast of their SD channel. The Discovery Channel HD (846) added today has the same schedule as the standard Discovery channel, except it has new episodes of a few series (such as Mythbusters) in high-definition. Most of the content is still upconverted SD.

Discovery has also begun to hold back new high-definition content from HD Theater for use on the Discovery HD channel. Previously, almost all new high-definition content created by Discovery was sent straight to HD Theater (836), but that is no longer the case. Some have criticized Discovery for robbing content from one channel for another, but it was obviously a business decision to make Discovery Channel HD more desirable.

1. Yes, great news! We have it here in SE Virginia.
2. Now, the question is: How is the average FiOS customer supposed to know that it has been added since there is no message saying that the new channel has been added? Without this forum, I would not have known.:confused:
Channel 846 is here in Northern VA as well. It is not in the guide yet, so it only shows up while channel surfing from 845 to 851 or by entering 846. The channel was showing an infomercial with no bugs during the few minutes I was watching so I could not tell if it was DiscoveryHD or not. The diagnostics data shows 846 to be on tuner channel 669 MHz or QAM 103 and to be a 1080i channel. Here, QAM 103 had only 1 HD sub-channel, National Geographic HD so it had the room. However, someone at dslreports posted that they had a HD RSN in the other 1/2 of QAM 103, so Verizon probably has or will move that HD RSN to another QAM channel.

That they added only Discovery HD is something that I take as possible good news. Verizon may not be contractually obligated to carry all four of the Discovery HD channels at once (Discovery, Animal Planet, Science, TLC). I held a vote on dslreports asking for the 5 most wanted HD channels and with 46 contributors, here are the top vote getters below. DiscoveryHD was the most requested, but there is clearly a preference for Sci-Fi, USA, FX, CNN HD. If Verizon can add those 4, they would make more customers happy than if they added the 4 Discovery channels and nothing else until next spring. I expect the votes here would go much the same. While there were a lot of votes for Versus/Golf HD, I can see how that presents a problem as Versus is on the main tier, but Golf is on the separate extra cost sports tier. Verizon may need to set up a matching HD sports tier first before adding Versus/Golf.

26 Discovery HD
23 Sci-Fi HD
18 USA HD
17 FX HD
13 Versus / Golf Channel HD
12 CNN HD
11 Animal Planet HD
8 History Channel HD
8 Science Channel HD

Anyway, back to the good news: Mythbusters in HD! Yes!

"When the heck will Manhattan get FIOS???"

Like anything else...When someone finds a way to make a big profit doing it :) .

Here in Plano TX when tuned to 846 i get a parental lock notice. I have never set up parental lock. is that what it says when a chennel in not available or do i need to set it up to access it?
I have not seen the parental lock notice except when I got the new IMG several months ago and it was set to by default to "lock" out the programming marked with a mature content flag. It was not even anything with nudity or on the premium movie channels, just something on the national channels with a MA code as I recall. I had to go into settings and provide a code to turn the parental lock off. Whether this is affecting DiscoveryHD for you, don't know.

It's here in Mass. too. Same thing with no guide listing, only direct channel access. Looks like upconverted SD of "How It's Made" from the Science Channel although it says [You are watching Discovery HD] occasionally. At least the upconvert is full screen and doesn't look too bad.

I held a vote on dslreports asking for the 5 most wanted HD channels and with 46 contributors, here are the top vote getters below. DiscoveryHD was the most requested, but there is clearly a preference for Sci-Fi, USA, FX, CNN HD. If Verizon can add those 4, they would make more customers happy than if they added the 4 Discovery channels and nothing else until next spring.

You mean they would make more of the 46 contributors to that thread happy ;)

In addition to Discovery HD (TDC-HD 846), looks like Comcast SportNet Mid-Atlantic HD (CSNMAHD 829) is coming (to Northern Virginia at least).

http://www.udigtv.com/ (zip 20170 Herndon / Northern Virginia)

Note: udigtv is provided by FYI Television, Inc (Verizon's guide data provider). Channels that show up in their online guide usually pop up on FiOS shortly thereafter.

In addition to Discovery HD (TDC-HD 846), looks like Comcast SportNet Mid-Atlantic HD (CSNMAHD 829) is coming (to Northern Virginia at least).

http://www.udigtv.com/ (zip 20170 Herndon / Northern Virginia)

Note: udigtv is provided by FYI Television, Inc (Verizon's guide data provider). Channels that show up in their online guide usually pop up on FiOS shortly thereafter.

Great news (for me at least, since I live in Fairfax County)!

Do you have a "Demonstration Code" I could use to access UDigTV?

IT is on here in Pa also.

In addition to Discovery HD (TDC-HD 846), looks like Comcast SportNet Mid-Atlantic HD (CSNMAHD 829) is coming (to Northern Virginia at least).

http://www.udigtv.com/ (zip 20170 Herndon / Northern Virginia)

Note: udigtv is provided by FYI Television, Inc (Verizon's guide data provider). Channels that show up in their online guide usually pop up on FiOS shortly thereafter.


I don't have a demonstration code... can you see if Central VA will have it as well. (23233) thanks.

Got it here in N.Y. Of course the rumors of the new guide coming on Tuesday didn't pan out, but no surprise there.

Hey Jayman007,

Typically how long does it take between showing up on UDigTV to showing up on your TV?? When did ComcastSportsNETHD show up UDigTV?

ComcastSportsnetHD is also on 829 for washington metro area (on UDigTV)...
I'm so pumped if it will actually finally show up on FIOS.

Disc HD ch 846 is in the guide now.

interestingly enough the current program("A Haunting") is not in HD but does appear to be an acceptable upconvert. it's letterboxed on the Disc SD ch.

oh well this is great timing. "Mythbusters" AND "Cash Cab" tonite!!!:)

It's up in Tampa FL as well, too bad almost all the programming on it isn't in HD. Including MythBusters and Cash Cab last time I checked.

Almost as useless as A&E HD, considering almost all of DHD's actual HD shows already shows up on HDT.

Great news (for me at least, since I live in Fairfax County)!

Do you have a "Demonstration Code" I could use to access UDigTV?I just type in my zip code (20170) for the "Demonstration Code" and it works.

Note: The zip code coverage is a bit flakey / incomplete. If your zip doesn't work ... try a few around you. 20170 = Herndon, VA so ... pretty indicative of NoVa.

Edit: Try zapless2007 for the "Demonstration Code". Here's a hint ... it's just javascript on the "Go" button so ... look and the source code for the page and you'll see the following:

span id="CompareValidator1" controltovalidate="txtDemoCode" errormessage="Invalid Demonstration Code" evaluationfunction="CompareValidatorEvaluateIsValid" valuetocompare="zapless2007"

ta daa ... zapless2007 is the "Demonstration Code". You can also completely skip the "Demonstration Code" validation by just hitting the "enter" key on your keyboard (instead of clicking on the "Go" button"). That's why just entering in my zip works ... because I always (out of habit) just hit Enter to submit forms (instead of cliking on submit buttons).

this is great news b/c it confirms there's still some space left and we won't have to wait til next year for ANY new HD channel.

I hope that we will NOT get all the other channels in the Discovery family though (at least not now). B/t HDT and DiscHD and NatGeo, we have the science stuff covered. I'd really like to see FX, USA or SciFi, naybe CNN. You know, some diversity of content.

Hey dt_dc,

When I pull up udigtv and type in 20170 (or 22033, which is my zip), I have two Verizon FiOS TV listings, one that says:

Silver Spring/Wash Met(a) - Silver Spring/Wash Met - 526 channels
Falls Church - 425 channels

I see CSNMAHD and TDCHD in the Silver Spring/Wash Met listing but not in the Falls Church listing. What is the Falls Church listing? Doesn't seem to make much sense.

It's up in Tampa FL as well, too bad almost all the programming on it isn't in HD. Including MythBusters and Cash Cab last time I checked.
The newer Mythbusters and Dirty Jobs episodes have been widely reported to be in HD. These 2 shows have never aired on HD Theater. What is not clear is when each show switched to shooting in HD. The prime time Mythbusters episode tonight at 9 PM ET, "Exploding Water Heater", according to the on-line listing is a new episode so it should be in HD. At 8 PM ET, the repeat episode is "Western Myths" which originally aired on May 30, 2007 so it will be interesting to see if that one is in HD. We will find out.

Typically how long does it take between showing up on UDigTV to showing up on your TV??Depends. It used to be that the channel would show up very quickly in the FiOS guide (ie, within 24 hours) after appearing on udigtv. Note however, this is only guide data. Ie, the channel can show up in the guide but not have any content yet. Lately, however Verizon seems to have better ability to suppress channels in their own guide.

Hmmm ... going back to this post (A&E HD addition):
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=11889978&postcount=4587

Looks like A&E HD and Fox Business showed up on udigtv on October 12. A&E HD was in the FiOS guide by October 14 (I forget if there was content or not). A&E HD and Fox Business were both in the guide with content available by October 16 (October 16th was Fox Business' launch date).

When did ComcastSportsNETHD show up UDigTV?No clue. With the Discovery HD chatter I went and checked udigtv. Last time I looked at it was ... maybe ... two weeks ago (I seem to recall rumors about 'Verizon is going to add the DiscHD channels this week!' a couple weeks ago).

Anyway, like I said above ... "Looks like CSN-MA is coming" means just that ... "Looks like" it's coming. Data and bits is just that ... data and bits. Nothing more, nothing less. Till it actually shows up and is viewable ... guide data isn't infallable (as anyone with a DVR knows).

What is the Falls Church listing?Testing / garbage ... don't worry about it. Silver Spring/Wash Met is what customers see.

Just checked in Mercer County NJ, I gots it! Guide data is good too.

Hopefully the new episode of Mythbusters tonight will be true HD.

I now have 38 HD channels from Verizon! All I want is Sci-Fi and I'll be content.

Edit: bfdtv, check the bitrate for us!

It's up and running here in Fort Wayne, IN, also!

Its up here 846 in Northern NJ

if anyone ever notices CSN-MA HD up and running on FIOS. Let us know (and give your location)

Thanks

this is great news b/c it confirms there's still some space left and we won't have to wait til next year for ANY new HD channel.

I hope that we will NOT get all the other channels in the Discovery family though (at least not now). B/t HDT and DiscHD and NatGeo, we have the science stuff covered. I'd really like to see FX, USA or SciFi, naybe CNN. You know, some diversity of content.

Be careful what you wish for. Over on the Comcast forums there are many folks griping how useless CNN-HD is due to lack of HD material...

I just watched my HD-DVR recording of HDNet's coverage of the NASA space shuttle landing this afternoon. Finally, they got the video done right. Very, very nice coverage, including simultaneous picture-in-picture of the HUD (Heads Up Display) / cockpit view of the runway with shots from the ground. Now that's what I'd call HDNet quality.

They even replayed some very cool rocket-cam shots of the launch followed by booster camera coverage into the ocean. Good stuff.

Some improvement of the announcer. He did at least make an effort to not talk while the NASA channel audio was on. Except when he talked over the double sonic boom as the shuttle passed under the sound barrier. That would have been loud and clear (I listened live to NASA channel coverage on the internet). It would still be better if he didn't give any commentary at all until after wheels stop. The NASA channel announcers know how to do the play-by-play on their own to a general audience. Really.

Also - as mentioned before, Discovery HD up and running in the Philly area on 846. Mythbusters looks HD but with a bit of compression.

2. Now, the question is: How is the average FiOS customer supposed to know that it has been added since there is no message saying that the new channel has been added? Without this forum, I would not have known.:confused:

Forget the average customer, It would be nice if they let us, the installers, know it's up. Like you, I wouldn't have known without the forum. Or coming across it accidentally, like I did with A&E HD. :o

For those of you served by the Philadelphia VHO (Yes South Jersey, that includes you), I have seen an indication that the IMG will be rolled out on or about the 13th. We've been given inserts about the IPG to include with the "NEW" Mercury FiOS TV Welcome Packets. We were told to use the inserts until the 13th.

BTW I found a memo today in my truck advising the field technicians of the new IMG rolling out in April ('07 that is). :(

-Jim

Two bosses mentioned this morning, that the IMG is supposed to launch for VHO8 (Philly & South Jersey) & VHO7 (Central & North Jersey) on the 15th.

-Jim

Watched the new ep of Mythbusters just now... ew this channel is really low bitrate. All explosions and fast/shaky camera shots meant the show was a block-fest.

Comcast Sportsnet HD is now up on channel 829 in N. VA and MD.

This doesn't look good.

Wednesday's high-definition Mythbusters (9-10pm) was only 12.6 Mbps ABR with a peak of 15 Mbps. Quality was mediocre to poor, imo. Tomorrow, I hope to have figures for the same episode from COX for comparison purposes.

More worrisome is the fact that NGCHD on the same QAM channel is now ~14.6 Mbps ABR. Previously, NGCHD was ~16.8 Mbps ABR. This is a significant drop. When this change was made, I can't be sure, since my last high-definition recordings from NGCHD were made in October.

As far as I can tell, NGC-HD and DSC-HD are the only two channels on that particular QAM slot (38.6Mbps), so it wouldn't make sense to compress them unless FiOS is reserving space for a third channel. One possibility is that NGC-HD lowered their bitrate at the request of other cable companies. But there is also the possibility that Verizon is now applying extra compression to make room for a third channel into that QAM slot.

I certainly hope the additional channels planned for later this year do not come at the expense of quality.

But there is also the possibility that Verizon is now applying extra compression to make room for a third channel into that QAM slot.

I certainly hope the additional channels planned for later this year do not come at the expense of quality.


In the press release announcing the 150 HD channels for 08 the Verizon rep officially stated that VZ does not add any additional compression over what they are receiving from the provide. It was officially stated that they do not need to do it, and simply pass along what they get. I sincerely doubt they would make a statement like that, and then change their approach not even 2 weeks later.

Comcast Sportsnet HD is now up on channel 829 in N. VA and MD.

So I think that leaves Richmond and Hampton Roads as the only markets w/o an HD Regional Sports Network?

Two bosses mentioned this morning, that the IMG is supposed to launch for VHO8 (Philly & South Jersey) & VHO7 (Central & North Jersey) on the 15th.

-Jim

Jim, don't believe it. I've lost track of how many dates have come and gone that the N.Y. area was supposed to get the new IMG. In fact the latest rumor had Tuesday or Thursday of this week for N.Y. Well both days have come and gone and we still have no new IMG here in N.Y.

Just as I did with the millions of rumors years ago about "new HD channels coming to D*" (that never did back then), I eventually learned to ignore them. ;)

This doesn't look good.

Wednesday's high-definition Mythbusters (9-10pm) was only 12.6 Mbps ABR with a peak of 15 Mbps. Quality was mediocre to poor, imo. Tomorrow, I hope to have figures for the same episode from COX for comparison purposes.

More worrisome is the fact that NGCHD on the same QAM channel is now ~14.6 Mbps ABR. Previously, NGCHD was ~16.8 Mbps ABR. This is a significant drop. When this change was made, I can't be sure, since my last high-definition recordings from NGCHD were made in October.

As far as I can tell, NGC-HD and DSC-HD are the only two channels on that particular QAM slot (38.6Mbps), so it wouldn't make sense to compress them unless FiOS is reserving space for a third channel. One possibility is that NGC-HD lowered their bitrate at the request of other cable companies. But there is also the possibility that Verizon is now applying extra compression to make room for a third channel into that QAM slot.

I certainly hope the additional channels planned for later this year do not come at the expense of quality.

I too noticed some macroblocking on the new channel. If it's Verizon that's lowering the bitrate on these channels, then there's no reason to stay with FIOS...none. Most of us are here for the PQ, certainly not the number of HD channels at this point. If FIOS is pulling the old D* game, then I'm outta here for sure. I might as well get more HD channels in the MPEG4 format. :(

If you can, let's try to confirm who's responsible for this bitrate reduction. Unfortunately, comparing previously recorded shows with the same shows broadcast today, might not give us the answer if that bitrate reduction was just implemented at the source's end as opposed to Verizon's.

It's funny and sad that about 3 years ago or so, I was posting here on AVS that the glory days of broadcast HD were behind us as PQ continued to deteriorate. For the most part, this seems to be panning out.

This doesn't look good.

Wednesday's high-definition Mythbusters (9-10pm) was only 12.6 Mbps ABR with a peak of 15 Mbps. Quality was mediocre to poor, imo. Tomorrow, I hope to have figures for the same episode from COX for comparison purposes.

More worrisome is the fact that NGCHD on the same QAM channel is now ~14.6 Mbps ABR. Previously, NGCHD was ~16.8 Mbps ABR. This is a significant drop. When this change was made, I can't be sure, since my last high-definition recordings from NGCHD were made in October.

As far as I can tell, NGC-HD and DSC-HD are the only two channels on that particular QAM slot (38.6Mbps), so it wouldn't make sense to compress them unless FiOS is reserving space for a third channel. One possibility is that NGC-HD lowered their bitrate at the request of other cable companies. But there is also the possibility that Verizon is now applying extra compression to make room for a third channel into that QAM slot.

I certainly hope the additional channels planned for later this year do not come at the expense of quality.


Isn't NGC a 720P station? 720P transmission doesn't need as much bandwidth as a 1080i transmission to look good. 16.8 mbs is decent for a 1080i station. 12.6 should be Ok for 720P. Isn't FOX broadcast below that average bitrate?

I just got an automated call from vz/fios about the upcoming IMG and that I should call 888 811-1371 for more info. after holding for about 1/2 an hour I finally got a rep. he informed me that my area (nassau county long island) will be getting the new guide either early next tuesday or thursday morning. I asked him if it was the original buggy one, or the new and improved version and he confirmed that it was the new one.



No offense to the poster since I'm sure this is what he was told (on 10/31), but this is why you don't believe these things as both days have come and gone. You will get the new IMG when you turn on your TV and the new IMG is there. Of course that may be some time next year, but eventually it will be there.

Jim, don't believe it. I've lost track of how many dates have come and gone that the N.Y. area was supposed to get the new IMG. In fact the latest rumor had Tuesday or Thursday of this week for N.Y. Well both days have come and gone and we still have no new IMG here in N.Y.

Just as I did with the millions of rumors years ago about "new HD channels coming to D*" (that never did back then), I eventually learned to ignore them. ;)


Ken,

The word over at Broadband reports is that VZ finally realized that they need to wait until the patch is issued to further deploy the IMG. This should occur in early 08 since the patch is announced for December and I am sure they will want to monitor the results of the fix. IMHO this is a smart decision that we should all be appluading, rather than bitching that we don't have the shiny new, yet somewhat flawed, toy. VZ is not going to make every move correctly, and as a startup they may even make a few more mistakes than the incumbents, but the PQ is stellar, and the promise of 150 HD in 08 is officially out there.

All told, I think I will sit tight, and enjoy the HD I have with the guide I have until the rest is ready for prime time. Having just left D* (post HD rollout) I can tell you that most of the HD they have is bad stretchovision upconverted SD. I have most of the true HD channels that I need with FIOS. The only one I really want to get and probably won't before Jan is SCI-FI (for BSG season)

Antneye, the one thing that kind of refutes what you're saying about the new IMG, is that we got both the phone calls and mailings regarding the 'impending' release of the guide about a week and a half ago.

I don't think they would have done that if they weren't intending on releasing the new IMG before the end of the year, let alone a few weeks from that phone call. Doesn't that seem odd?

Comcast Sportsnet HD is now up on channel 829 in N. VA and MD.

At 7:15AM it was NOT on in my house...

Did you have to reset the STB?

Is this new IMG also used on the HD STB? If so it works great since I have their HD STB but I would never want to use their DVR. I'l stick with my HDTiVos. Especially since the cost is about the same. Each TiVo box costs $6 for two cablecards and $7 a month for the TiVo service. And I have approximately 131 hours of HD recording time on each of the 4 HDTiVo boxes I am using with FIOS.

Antneye, the one thing that kind of refutes what you're saying about the new IMG, is that we got both the phone calls and mailings regarding the 'impending' release of the guide about a week and a half ago.

I don't think they would have done that if they weren't intending on releasing the new IMG before the end of the year, let alone a few weeks from that phone call. Doesn't that seem odd?


Yes. It was a midnight hour decision from what I am told. I believe the call volumes and message boards after the TX and FL rollout were enough for them to take pause. I spoke to someone on the inside who confirmed the decision. The logic behind the decision is purely my personal speculation.

At 7:15AM it was NOT on in my house...

Did you have to reset the STB?
Comcast SportsNet Mid-Atlantic HD is not in the guide. Tune to channel 828 and step up through the channels or manually tune to 829. It should be there. If they follow the same pattern as yesterday, the guide will be updated with the new channels later today.

CSNMA-HD was added to QAM 93 (639 MHz) which was previously an unused channel here in northern VA. QAM 93 is used in the NYC and NJ areas to carry 2 New York city HD Regional Sport Nets. So we can confirm that QAM 93 is used for distributing the HD RSNs in different markets. There are now two sub-channels in QAM 93, don't know what the other one is, but it may be a placeholder. My hope is that Verizon set aside half of the bandwidth of QAM 93 and has everything else set up to quickly add Mid-Atlantic Sports Net-HD when ever MASN gets off the pot and provides a HD feed.

I'll try that when I get home. Thanks afiggatt.

This doesn't look good.

Wednesday's high-definition Mythbusters (9-10pm) was only 12.6 Mbps ABR with a peak of 15 Mbps. Quality was mediocre to poor, imo. Tomorrow, I hope to have figures for the same episode from COX for comparison purposes.

More worrisome is the fact that NGCHD on the same QAM channel is now ~14.6 Mbps ABR. Previously, NGCHD was ~16.8 Mbps ABR. This is a significant drop. When this change was made, I can't be sure, since my last high-definition recordings from NGCHD were made in October.

As far as I can tell, NGC-HD and DSC-HD are the only two channels on that particular QAM slot (38.6Mbps), so it wouldn't make sense to compress them unless FiOS is reserving space for a third channel. One possibility is that NGC-HD lowered their bitrate at the request of other cable companies.
For how many different programs did you check the bit-rate for NGC-HD? I think you would want to check 2 or 3 different programs with film and video sources before reaching any conclusions. Mythbusters appeared to be shot with both HD and widescreen SD video cameras. With all the outdoor and multiple camera shots in the field with the show, that is not surprising. They may not have replaced all the SD field cameras yet, figuring that Adam and Jamie will destroy them somewhere along the line when they blow something up. It may well be that Discovery-HD is a somewhat lower bit rate at the source so Discovery can save money on the satellite bandwidth.

Lasts' night Mythbusters was fun. More fun than it would have been on the SD channel! So that is what happens when you jam the pressure release valve, remove the thermostat and safety overrides on a 52 gallon water heater and crank the heater on full. I would have not expected the tank to fly anywhere near that high in the air. :D

Yes. It was a midnight hour decision from what I am told. I believe the call volumes and message boards after the TX and FL rollout were enough for them to take pause. I spoke to someone on the inside who confirmed the decision. The logic behind the decision is purely my personal speculation.

It appears you are right. Verizon has some egg on their face in the N.Y. area according to the CSR I spoke with. She was well aware of the mailings and phone calls that were sent announcing the imminent release of the new IMG. She said people have been calling asking what the mailing & calls were all about since they see nothing new on their screens weeks later.

I said nobody will remember these mailings or calls if the guide isn't released shortly. She had no idea when it would be, but guessed they'd have to resend the mailings and calls.

For a sophisticated system like theirs, at times the operation appears to be run by a bunch of high school kids.

For how many different programs did you check the bit-rate for NGC-HD? I think you would want to check 2 or 3 different programs with film and video sources before reaching any conclusions. Mythbusters appeared to be shot with both HD and widescreen SD video cameras. With all the outdoor and multiple camera shots in the field with the show, that is not surprising. They may not have replaced all the SD field cameras yet, figuring that Adam and Jamie will destroy them somewhere along the line when they blow something up. It may well be that Discovery-HD is a somewhat lower bit rate at the source so Discovery can save money on the satellite bandwidth.

:D

I think you're assuming that bitrate is very dynamic and changes with content and SD vs HD. Generally I've seen that bitrate is a relatively static number that doesn't change even when an HD channel is broadcasting SD material.

So if these numbers have really dropped and it's not at the broadcaster's end, we've reached a possible turning point with FIOS. Let's hope not.

It appears you are right. Verizon has some egg on their face in the N.Y. area according to the CSR I spoke with. She was well aware of the mailings and phone calls that were sent announcing the imminent release of the new IMG. She said people have been calling asking what the mailing & calls were all about since they see nothing new on their screens weeks later.

I said nobody will remember these mailings or calls if the guide isn't released shortly. She had no idea when it would be, but guessed they'd have to resend the mailings and calls.

For a sophisticated system like theirs, at times the operation appears to be run by a bunch of high school kids.

A little egg on their face is much better than rolling out a UI with issues. Especially when you consider how competitive the NY market is. As I said before, they have a great product, and I am willing to deal with a few reschedules along the way as they work to improve things.

I think you're assuming that bitrate is very dynamic and changes with content and SD vs HD. Generally I've seen that bitrate is a relatively static number that doesn't change even when an HD channel is broadcasting SD material.


I think you may be right.

bfdtv: could you record an SD program and compare the results?

Verizon Slots In Discovery HD

Telco Adds Flagship, Plans HD Simulcasts Of Three Other Nets Next Year

By Todd Spangler -- Multichannel News, 11/8/2007 8:18:00 AM

Verizon announced an expanded deal with Discovery Communications, adding Discovery Channel HD to its FiOS TV high-definition lineup in all markets, bringing the telco to lineup of 21 national HD channels.

The telco also plans to make available HD simulcasts of Discovery's TLC, Animal Planet and The Science Channel in 2008 as part of its plans to deliver 150 HD channels next year. http://www.multichannel.com/article/CA6497164.html

"Discovery Channel HD is a great addition to the Verizon FiOS TV lineup as we close out 2007 and look forward to our HD expansion in 2008," said Verizon vice president of FiOS TV content strategy and acquisition Terry Denson in a prepared statement.

Discovery Channel HD is now available on FiOS TV channel 846. Verizon will continue to offer Discovery's standalone high-definition network, Discovery HD Theater, which features such fare as Sunrise Earth http://www.multichannel.com/article/CA6417397 and wildlife, high-end auto and adventure programming.

“Discovery's nonfiction programs like our award-winning Planet Earth truly come alive in HD, making our channels top destinations for viewers,” Discovery president of domestic distribution and enterprises Bill Goodwyn sai, in a statement. “We are pleased to be working with Verizon to bring their customers HD simulcasts of Discovery's most popular networks and to help drive greater adoption of HD services.”

http://www.multichannel.com/article/CA6498893.html?desc=topstory

Is it just me or does Discovery HD not fill the entire screen?

Jim, don't believe it. I've lost track of how many dates have come and gone that the N.Y. area was supposed to get the new IMG. In fact the latest rumor had Tuesday or Thursday of this week for N.Y. Well both days have come and gone and we still have no new IMG here in N.Y.

Just as I did with the millions of rumors years ago about "new HD channels coming to D*" (that never did back then), I eventually learned to ignore them. ;)

I'm just relaying info that was passed down the mountain from V*/NJ Top management to us, the worker bees.

If I've learned anything while working @ v* it's that change is a constant. :cool:

Is it just me or does Discovery HD not fill the entire screen?

Not just you. I saw one show last night that was letterboxed on all sides.

For how many different programs did you check the bit-rate for NGC-HD?I used to have a season pass for Naked Science on NGC-HD. I still have several episodes on my computer from September and October and they are all around 7.20Gb (+/- 0.10Gb) for 60 minutes. My recording of Naked Science from NGCHD last night is only 6.10Gb.

Mythbusters appeared to be shot with both HD and widescreen SD video cameras. With all the outdoor and multiple camera shots in the field with the show, that is not surprising. They may not have replaced all the SD field cameras yet, figuring that Adam and Jamie will destroy them somewhere along the line when they blow something up.Upconverted SD content can require less bandwidth when it is from a different source with its own set of encoding parameters, but that is not going to be the case for SD content within a high-definition program. SD content upconverted within a high-definition program is going to require just as many bits as the HD itself.

Within a given high-definition program, frame rate and motion are the main factors that will cause the bitrate to fluctuate. For example, a native 720p60 scene will require significantly more bandwidth than a 720p24 scene that uses repeat bits to achieve 720p60.

It may well be that Discovery-HD is a somewhat lower bit rate at the source so Discovery can save money on the satellite bandwidth.That was my first impression too. Discovery recently added four different HD feeds (Discovery, Animal Planet, Science, TLC), so it is entirely possible that all four are multiplexed on a 60Mbps feed with an ABR of ~12.5Mbps each.

Isn't NGC a 720P station? 720P transmission doesn't need as much bandwidth as a 1080i transmission to look good. 16.8 mbs is decent for a 1080i station. 12.6 should be Ok for 720P. Isn't FOX broadcast below that average bitrate?NGCHD (720p60) on FiOS used 16.8Mbps ABR last month; now it is 14.6Mbps ABR. DSCHD (1080i) is only 12.5-12.6Mbps ABR. Both feeds could be distributed that way now.

FOX (720p60) uses VBR encoding with peaks of 14.6Mbps, IIRC. FOX's native 720p24 series content -- broadcast at 720p60 with repeat bits -- requires as little as 9-10Mbps. FOX's native 720p60 content like NFL football runs pretty close to the maximum 14.6Mbps.

I would expect a broadcast network ike FOX to use better equipment throughout its production and distribution chain then a niche channel like NGC.

Earlier this year, Discovery renamed Discovery HD Theater (836) to HD Theater. .

Thanks for clearing that up.
I had stopped watching HDT/Discovery HD Theater because it seemed like there was very new content so the switch 'snuck' by me.

Lasts' night Mythbusters was fun. More fun than it would have been on the SD channel! So that is what happens when you jam the pressure release valve, remove the thermostat and safety overrides on a 52 gallon water heater and crank the heater on full. I would have not expected the tank to fly anywhere near that high in the air. :D

yeah especially since I recently put in a new hot water heater!!!:)

I thought "Mythbusters" did look a bit soft compared to what you see on HD Theater. report of lower bitrate seems to confirm that.

more positive news is we got our CW affiliate in HD now!!!

Not just you. I saw one show last night that was letterboxed on all sides.

I call that squeze-boxed.

Verizon Slots In Discovery HD

Telco Adds Flagship, Plans HD Simulcasts Of Three Other Nets Next Year

By Todd Spangler -- Multichannel News, 11/8/2007 8:18:00 AM

Verizon announced an expanded deal with Discovery Communications, adding Discovery Channel HD to its FiOS TV high-definition lineup in all markets, bringing the telco to lineup of 21 national HD channels.

...

here is the link to the release from Vz
http://newscenter.verizon.com/press-releases/verizon/2007/verizon-adds-discovery.html

I call that squeze-boxed.

better yet, litter-boxed.

better yet, litter-boxed.

LOL... :)

Litter-boxed is also when there is any pop-up, crawl or graphic on the screen during the program - like TNT or NBC with the Phenomenon thing..

I would expect a broadcast network ike FOX to use better equipment throughout its production and distribution chain then a niche channel like NGC.

That seems logical, but every weekend when I watch the Bucs play it makes me think Fox uses the worst equipment in the industry.

I haven't compared the bit rate, but I have noticed that the NGC HD file size on shows are higher than just about any other 1 hour show I record on my Series3. Most shows are about 5-6GB per hour, while NGHC HD is almost always 7GB.

I have a lot of old NGC HD shows on my Series3, I'll have to go back and compare them all and see how they size up.

I haven't compared the bit rate, but I have noticed that the NGC HD file size on shows are higher than just about any other 1 hour show I record on my Series3. Most shows are about 5-6GB per hour, while NGHC HD is almost always 7GB.

I have a lot of old NGC HD shows on my Series3, I'll have to go back and compare them all and see how they size up.If you recorded the same series from NGC-HD, just open Tivo Desktop and select sort "alphabetically." That will list them all together so you can compare the sizes over time.

here is the link to the release from Vz
http://newscenter.verizon.com/press-releases/verizon/2007/verizon-adds-discovery.html
I am getting 846, but when will it show up in the guide?

I am getting 846, but when will it show up in the guide?
Discovery HD was added to the guide here in VA yesterday. You might want to try a cold reset by turning the STB/DVR off, unplug it for 30 seconds, then plug it back in, and turn it on again. It will take several minutes to reload the guide data.

Comcast Sportsnet HD is now up on channel 829 in N. VA and MD.
Does anyone have an idea as to why I am not getting this channel? I have a CC and did reset it but still no CSN HD.

Help please...

Does anyone have an idea as to why I am not getting this channel? I have a CC and did reset it but still no CSN HD.
If you have a cable card, I give it another night for an update. If CSN MA HD is not there in the morning, try another reset. If that doesn't work, call Verizon.

Does anyone in VA still have digital service with Comcast to compare the size of their recordings on CSN-HD?

The FiOS' CSN-HD bitrate here in VA/MD seems very low for a 1080i sports channel at around 14.2-14.5Mbps ABR. There is a lot of macroblocking during movement.

Is this new IMG also used on the HD STB? If so it works great since I have their HD STB but I would never want to use their DVR. I'l stick with my HDTiVos. Especially since the cost is about the same. Each TiVo box costs $6 for two cablecards and $7 a month for the TiVo service. And I have approximately 131 hours of HD recording time on each of the 4 HDTiVo boxes I am using with FIOS.

I know this is not the TiVo site, but just a safety comment to what you just said needs to go out to possible future HD TiVo buyers using FiOS: I have both the FiOS HD STB (OK) and a TiVo Series-3 HD STB (great). I dumped my FiOS HD DVR STB out of frustration with the IMG. But ... TiVo is not fully compatible with FiOS and both FiOS and TiVo acknowledge this. Occasionally, various TiVo channels get macro-blocking and tiling from FiOS for a day or two and then return to normal. The problem is caused when the TiVo box gets a false signal strength signal (varies 50-100% !). The channels affected change unexpectedly. TiVo reps have told me that there is a possibility of a TiVo software patch to fix the problem within the next few months. FiOS isn't working the problem since it is not their fault (FiOS techs came to my house and verified that I have great signal strength across the board from FiOS to my TiVo STB). There is no legal agreement in place between the 2 companies to support one another. I live with it because the FiOS HD DVR with IMG is so bad and, even with the problem I just mentioned, TiVo is so good.

ITiVo is not fully compatible with FiOS and both FiOS and TiVo acknowledge this. Occasionally, various TiVo channels get macro-blocking and tiling from FiOS for a day or two and then return to normal. The problem is caused when the TiVo box gets a false signal strength signal (varies 50-100% !). The channels affected change unexpectedly. TiVo reps have told me that there is a possibility of a TiVo software patch to fix the problem within the next few months. FiOS isn't working the problem since it is not their fault (FiOS techs came to my house and verified that I have great signal strength across the board from FiOS to my TiVo STB). There is an easy fix for this. Order this item:

http://www.smarthome.com/7800.html

The output from your ONT is too strong for the TiVo. This causes fluctuating signal levels and pixelization. You can fix this with the above attenuators. Adding the attenuator to the end of the coax before the TiVo eliminates the fluctuation in the SNR and eliminates the pixelization.

Verizon's installers will read a signal of +6 to +10 dB on their meter and report that the signal is fine. And that range is fine for the Motorola STBs and DVRs, but it will cause signal fluctuations and intermittent pixelization with the TiVo. Have the installer add an attenuator to reduce the signal strength to -6 dB to -12 dB.

There is no legal agreement in place between the 2 companies to support one another.There is no legal agreement between any cable company and TiVo regarding CableCards. But all cable companies with digital service -- including Verizon FiOS -- are required by federal law to provide compatible CableCards to their customers. FiOS is not required by law to make sure that their signal is the right strength for every CableCard box.

There is an easy fix for this. Order this item:

http://www.smarthome.com/7800.html

The output from your ONT is too strong for the TiVo. This causes fluctuating signal levels and pixelization. You can fix this with the above attenuators. Adding the attenuator to the end of the coax before the TiVo eliminates the fluctuation in the SNR and eliminates the pixelization.

Verizon's installers will read a signal of +6 to +10 dB on their meter and report that the signal is fine. And that range is fine for the Motorola STBs and DVRs, but it will cause signal fluctuations and intermittent pixelization with the TiVo. Have the installer add an attenuator to reduce the signal strength to -6 dB to -12 dB.

There is no legal agreement between any cable company and TiVo regarding CableCards. But all cable companies with digital service -- including Verizon FiOS -- are required by federal law to provide compatible CableCards to their customers. FiOS is not required by law to make sure that their signal is the right strength for every CableCard box.

Thanks for the info! :)
Do I need any special equipment to install the attenuator or can I do it myself? I will be charged a service fee if I call a FiOS tech to the house to install it.

Thanks for the info! :)
Do I need any special equipment to install the attenuator or can I do it myself? I will be charged a service fee if I call a FiOS tech to the house to install it.No special equipment required.

It screws onto the end of your cable. You disconnect the coax from the back of the TiVo, screw the attenuator onto the end of the coax, then reconnect the coax to the TiVo. The whole process takes less than 60 seconds.

Now, it may take a little longer than that because you don't know exactly how much attenuation you need, so you may need to try several combinations before you get 'perfect' one. The $12.99 package comes with a two -20dB, two -10dB, two -6dB, and two -2dB attenuators. You can combine them.

Steps:Find a channel with pixelization.


Once you've found a channel with pixelization, open Settings -> System Information -> Diagnostics. With this screen, you can monitor your SNR and number of RS Corrected and RS Uncorrected errors.

Your goal is to completely eliminate the RS Uncorrected errors and the fluctuation in the SNR. A few occasional RS Corrected errors are fine; it is the RS Uncorrected Errors that indicate pixelization.


Disconnect the coax cable from the TiVo.


Most seem to require -10dB to -16dB of attenuation. I would start with -16dB. Screw one -10dB attenuator and one -6dB attenuator onto the end of the coax cable. Then reconnect the coax back to the TiVo.


Is the problem fixed? Are your RS Uncorrected errors gone?


If not, disconnect the coax again and repeat step four using one -10dB attenuator and one -2dB attenuator.

Is the problem fixed? Are your RS Uncorrected errors gone?


If not, disconnect the coax again and repeat step four using a single -10dB attenuator.

Is the problem fixed? Are your RS Uncorrected errors gone?


If not, disconnect the coax again and repeat step four using a single -6dB attenuator.


By now, the problem will be fixed.

I know this is not the TiVo site, but just a safety comment to what you just said needs to go out to possible future HD TiVo buyers using FiOS: I have both the FiOS HD STB (OK) and a TiVo Series-3 HD STB (great). I dumped my FiOS HD DVR STB out of frustration with the IMG. But ... TiVo is not fully compatible with FiOS and both FiOS and TiVo acknowledge this. Occasionally, various TiVo channels get macro-blocking and tiling from FiOS for a day or two and then return to normal. The problem is caused when the TiVo box gets a false signal strength signal (varies 50-100% !). The channels affected change unexpectedly. TiVo reps have told me that there is a possibility of a TiVo software patch to fix the problem within the next few months. FiOS isn't working the problem since it is not their fault (FiOS techs came to my house and verified that I have great signal strength across the board from FiOS to my TiVo STB). There is no legal agreement in place between the 2 companies to support one another. I live with it because the FiOS HD DVR with IMG is so bad and, even with the problem I just mentioned, TiVo is so good.

I've never seen that with my Tivo S3 on FIOS. Maybe I just don't watch the channels you do that manifest this issue.

No special equipment required.

It screws onto the end of your cable. You disconnect the coax from the back of the TiVo, screw the attenuator onto the end of the coax, then reconnect the coax to the TiVo. The whole process takes less than 60 seconds.

Now, it may take a little longer than that because you don't know exactly how much attenuation you need, so you may need to try several combinations before you get 'perfect' one. The $12.99 package comes with a two -20dB, two -10dB, two -6dB, and two -2dB attenuators. You can combine them...

By now, the problem will be fixed.[/list]

Excellent post bfdtv! We need more informative posts like this on the forum. Thanks for taking the time.

Seems the Verizon FIOS TV website has yanked the channel lineup (its been up and down for awhile - no doubt due to all the rapid changes) - does anyone know where I can find the current PDF for DC Area? I'm getting it installed on Monday and the wife will want/need this or I'll be paying the consequences:)

Excellent post bfdtv! We need more informative posts like this on the forum. Thanks for taking the time.

Agreed. I didn't think twice about it but the installer dropped an attenuator on 1 of my boxes because there is only about 10' of cable from the ONT to the box. He strongly cautioned me to leave the attenuator there or the signal would cause problems on my STB. This might explain some of the other posts where the issue hasn't been seen - the longer the cable run to the box, the less of an issue attenuation becomes. I do like how the signal is so "hot" compared to Comcast though - with them it was always a question of getting ENOUGH oomph over the line, not knocking it down so the box doesn't fry!

I'm in the Wash Metro area.
I've have the new HD Discovery channel showing on the Vz DVR but it isn't showing on the HDTivo channel listing yet.
Anybody in the Wash Metro area have this on their Tivo yet?