My firmware version is: 4.0.16.1.56.0.10.7
I have the router set to automatically check for new firmware at: https://upgrade.actiontec.com/MI424WR/MI424WR.rmt

"Status: The firmware upgrade file is not supported on this hardware version
Internet Version: Wireless Broadband Router is up to date"

My question: Is there a newer version that the one above?

Thank you! :D

I has the same message and did a forced update and that message went away.

I has the same message and did a forced update and that message went away.

I've verified that the .rmt file is exactly the same version as the one I have already installed.

Go to http://192.168.1.1/ and login w/the username and password the tech hopefully left you, if not it is probably admin and password1

Next, go to the Advanced Screen and you should see a Firmware menu option, force it to check for an upgrade and then you can tell it to install the upgrade after it downloads it.

I'm not at home right now, so hopefully those instructions are correct and I am not leaving anything out.

Thanks. :)

The latest router firmware can always be found here:

http://www2.verizon.net/micro/actiontec/actiontec.asp

The Actiontec server tends to be 4-6 weeks behind.

The latest router firmware can always be found here:

http://www2.verizon.net/micro/actiontec/actiontec.asp

The Actiontec server tends to be 4-6 weeks behind.After several tries, I am unable to get that connection to come onscreen because it says my Windows software does not recognize the extension. I cannot find a software site that I recognize to safely download the necessary software to do so. FiOS tech support is so busy right now it will not even connect me to tech support through either the standard route or the direct number (the machine says the direct tech support number is no longer valid :()
1. Is there a new direct access number to tech support? What is it?
2. Is there a safe site to go to for uploading the software to allow the Verizon router site to automatically update my router?

After several tries, I am unable to get that connection to come onscreen because it says my Windows software does not recognize the extension. I cannot find a software site that I recognize to safely download the necessary software to do so. FiOS tech support is so busy right now it will not even connect me to tech support through either the standard route or the direct number (the machine says the direct tech support number is no longer valid :()
1. Is there a new direct access number to tech support? What is it?
2. Is there a safe site to go to for uploading the software to allow the Verizon router site to automatically update my router?

Try right clicking on this link and do "Download Linked File" or "Save Link As" or however IE on Windows words it....

http://www2.verizon.net/micro/actiontec/4.0.16.1.56.0.10.7-MI424WR.rmt

You then would still have to login to your router at 192.168.1.1, go to advanced, go to firmware, and manually load it from there.....

Try right clicking on this link and do "Download Linked File" or "Save Link As" or however IE on Windows words it....

http://www2.verizon.net/micro/actiontec/4.0.16.1.56.0.10.7-MI424WR.rmt

You then would still have to login to your router at 192.168.1.1, go to advanced, go to firmware, and manually load it from there.....Nope. That doesn't work either. The problem appears to be my inability to recognize the .rmt extension.
Just got hold of a FiOS agent on the phone and online. Even he had problems getting my system to work for some reason, but he quickly knew how to eliminate the roadblocks. He is good at his job. He forced the router update and set it for automatic updates in the future. All is well. Thanks to all for your quick help today! :)

does anyone know of any new HD channels??
We know of a lot of new HD channels. If the question is about new national HD channels on Verizon FiOS, not much. I would not expect any until "spring" of 2008, and only then added on a market by market basis.

My router won't stay up for more than 15mins at a time all of the sudden. I have to keep resetting it. WTF?!

My router won't stay up for more than 15mins at a time all of the sudden. I have to keep resetting it. WTF?!Did you update your Actiontec with firmware v4.0.16.1.56.0.10.7? That fixes the problem.

Actiontec 4.0.16.1.56.0.10.7 firmware (right-click, save link as) (http://www2.verizon.net/micro/actiontec/4.0.16.1.56.0.10.7-MI424WR.rmt)

If that doesn't fix the problem, then your router is defective and needs to be replaced. Verizon will replace it for free if you have TV.

Did you update your Actiontec with firmware v4.0.16.1.56.0.10.7? That fixes the problem.

Actiontec 4.0.16.1.56.0.10.7 firmware (right-click, save link as) (http://www2.verizon.net/micro/actiontec/4.0.16.1.56.0.10.7-MI424WR.rmt)

If that doesn't fix the problem, then your router is defective and needs to be replaced. Verizon will replace it for free if you have TV.

Except this version of the firmware seems to completely break static DHCP. Has this been fixed yet?

Except this version of the firmware seems to completely break static DHCP. Has this been fixed yet?Static DHCP works fine for me.

You set static IPs on the Actiontec, and then set all your computers to obtain their addresses with DHCP.

Static DHCP works fine for me.

You set static IPs on the Actiontec, and then set all your computers to obtain their addresses with DHCP.

You sure? Have you checked?

My router upgraded on it's own, and all my devices went to dynamic. The router showed nothing listed as static, and when I tried to recreate them, it either said it added them but they weren't visible, or it just errored out.

I had to revert to the previous firmware version to fix it.

(As a side note, any way to download the firmware from the router? I would like to keep a copy of this working version in case I can't revert again.)

You sure? Have you checked?

My router upgraded on it's own, and all my devices went to dynamic. The router showed nothing listed as static, and when I tried to recreate them, it either said it added them but they weren't visible, or it just errored out.

I had to revert to the previous firmware version to fix it.Sure, here's a screenshot (http://mysite.verizon.net/~fiosdvr/fios/actiontec.png).

I wonder if it might have something to do with the version of the router. Do you have the original design or a newer one? I have a rev C.

(As a side note, any way to download the firmware from the router? I would like to keep a copy of this working version in case I can't revert again.)Unfortunately, I don't know of any way to do that. I may have a copy lying around. Which version did you want?

We know of a lot of new HD channels. If the question is about new national HD channels on Verizon FiOS, not much. I would not expect any until "spring" of 2008, and only then added on a market by market basis.

Why assume such a slow rollout of new channels? It's pretty clear that the IMG was slow because of CSR call volume, not because of technological limitations. A&E and Discovery HD were rolled out rapidly across systems.

I guess you're thinking that they'll be slow depending on the speed of QAM upgrades. But I'd think that's being optimistic. It seems much more likely that no one will get new channels until everyone is capable of receiving them.

After all, given the current HD channel lineup, they're going to have to restructure the HD channel order yet again.

Why assume such a slow rollout of new channels? It's pretty clear that the IMG was slow because of CSR call volume, not because of technological limitations. A&E and Discovery HD were rolled out rapidly across systems.

I guess you're thinking that they'll be slow depending on the speed of QAM upgrades. But I'd think that's being optimistic. It seems much more likely that no one will get new channels until everyone is capable of receiving them.

After all, given the current HD channel lineup, they're going to have to restructure the HD channel order yet again.

All indications on another board, from a source that has been very reliable in the past, make it seem that it will indeed be market-by-market and could take upwards of 6 months or more to complete. The first market would be Ft. Wayne, Indiana, and move to other markets from there. The least complex markets would be done first, with the most complex and most out of date equipment being done last.

All indications on another board, from a source that has been very reliable in the past, make it seem that it will indeed be market-by-market and could take upwards of 6 months or more to complete. The first market would be Ft. Wayne, Indiana, and move to other markets from there. The least complex markets would be done, with the most complex and most out of date equipment being done last.

Living in Fort Wayne has finally paid off

Did you update your Actiontec with firmware v4.0.16.1.56.0.10.7? That fixes the problem.

Actiontec 4.0.16.1.56.0.10.7 firmware (right-click, save link as) (http://www2.verizon.net/micro/actiontec/4.0.16.1.56.0.10.7-MI424WR.rmt)

If that doesn't fix the problem, then your router is defective and needs to be replaced. Verizon will replace it for free if you have TV.

I already had that version installed. Interestingly it's working again now. It's been up since last night. It's possible the VZ was doing something funny on the network and kept taking me down.

Does anyone know if Verizon offers FSN NY HD Devils broadcasts here in North Jersey (Kearny/Meadowlands)?

Also do they offer VersusHD NHL games broadcasts?

is there any info available on the geographic areas vz plans to introduce fios?

verizon is our local phone provider. we live in a high income area of the bay area yet no fios. where can if find out if they plan to offer it here

Does anyone know if Verizon offers FSN NY HD Devils broadcasts here in North Jersey (Kearny/Meadowlands)?

Also do they offer VersusHD NHL games broadcasts?

FSN NY-HD(& MSG-HD)-no & IMHO not likely anytime soon. there seems to be a great deal of personal animosity between the Dolans & Vz(what else is new?)

Versus HD may well be among the HD chs added in spring but I think at best this will only be in time for the playoffs.

Got Fios hooked up yesterday and haven't cancelled my D*TV yet. Did a comparison on the same TV, which is a 42" Hitachi plasma in my gameroom. The HD looked pretty close, maybe an edge to Fios, especially on ESPN First Take today. Flipped over to a few of the SD channels we watch the most, Food network and Disney. SD Food network was very noticably better on Fios and Kim Possible was noticably cuter on Fios as well. I rarely watch SD locals (mostly HD) but there was a difference there too (on the soaps earlier).

I know this is the Fios thread and most people here already have it, but just wanted to share my experience with a direct comparison. I think I will be calling D*TV tomorrow to go ahead and cancel. Just have to make sure that my wife likes the Fios IMG and so forth, we've had the other for about 12 yrs.

Did you know that you have Food network HD? 840 for the Philly area. Also, checkout HDNet on 833 and 834. Nothing like it. I hear that a lot of the network soaps are in HD, so checkout the local HD channels (800 and up).

Yeah, we watched some food network HD last night. Then when I was messing around today with the settings and so forth, I flipped it there again. To my surprise, they were showing the exact same show. I looked at the guide and the next several shows were the same ones they showed last night. Seems like their programming is a little limited. I mean I could see if they showed the same series (maybe only a few are taped in HD) but the exact same episodes. Is that channel always that limited in their programming?

Does anyone know if Verizon offers FSN NY HD Devils broadcasts here in North Jersey (Kearny/Meadowlands)?

Also do they offer VersusHD NHL games broadcasts?

I'm a metro-hockey fan switching to FIOS later this month. I'm going to hold onto D* until after the playoffs and then put the service on hold until Sunday Ticket. I wouldn't be surprised if Verizon got FSN NY HD and MSG HD. If D* negotiated a deal, why wouldn't Verizon be able to cut the same deal. In the end, they really need those channels, as the average NY sports fan will demand those channels or switch. I have put off getting FIOS for this reason, but the bundle of Phone/Internet/TV was too much of a value. Plus, D* move away from TiVo also pushed me to FIOS.

I hear that a lot of the network soaps are in HD, so checkout the local HD channels (800 and up).

As far as daytime shows, The Young and The Restless is the only soap in HD.

Yeah, we watched some food network HD last night. Then when I was messing around today with the settings and so forth, I flipped it there again. To my surprise, they were showing the exact same show. I looked at the guide and the next several shows were the same ones they showed last night. Seems like their programming is a little limited. I mean I could see if they showed the same series (maybe only a few are taped in HD) but the exact same episodes. Is that channel always that limited in their programming?

It only shows programs that were shot in HD. 30 Minute Meals was recently added.

Just found out that our apt complex is about to be wired for FIOS TV/phone/internet.Currently have Comcast.HD selection is pretty good,PQ is good (IMO) but Consumers Report says that FIOS is far superior,PQ-wise,to Comcast.Can anyone confirm this? Also,what's the outlook for their HD channel expansion? Any other comments would also be appreciated.

Thanks.

Just found out that our apt complex is about to be wired for FIOS TV/phone/internet.Currently have Comcast.HD selection is pretty good,PQ is good (IMO) but Consumers Report says that FIOS is far superior,PQ-wise,to Comcast.Can anyone confirm this? Also,what's the outlook for their HD channel expansion? Any other comments would also be appreciated.

Thanks.With a slight amount of effort on your part, you can find the answers to your questions by reviewing a few pages above your question. Less than 30 minutes should do it. Enjoy your new set-up. :)

Thanks much for your helpful response.Maybe someday *I* can become a "special member" too.

Just found out that our apt complex is about to be wired for FIOS TV/phone/internet.Currently have Comcast.HD selection is pretty good,PQ is good (IMO) but Consumers Report says that FIOS is far superior,PQ-wise,to Comcast.Can anyone confirm this? Also,what's the outlook for their HD channel expansion? Any other comments would also be appreciated.

Thanks.

I'd say that FIOS has the best PQ across the board, mainly due to its ability to support the load. The bandwidth available through the physical optical fiber, and the protocols used to deliver content mean that FIOS can deliver the uncompressed version of anything you watch. You will see the best SD and HD quality because it will be at your TV the way the content providers deliver it.

As to the HD channels, we have a good number, in the highest quality and a good selection. My personal favorites are the HDNet channels, the Wealth channel and ESPN's. I also have a local channel that produces both the news and a signature local show (Chronicle) in HD. Can't beat that. The way I've heard, HD channel expansion on the horizon will go to 100+. As long as they are things I'm interested in, they can be less.

Another thing you haven't mentioned is the blazingly fast internet access, something worth having on its own.

Highly recommend it, whether Tivo or FIOS DVR.

Thanks much for your helpful response.Maybe someday *I* can become a "special member" too.

You can right now. Just edit your Custom User Title in your control panel profile.:D

Since I got the new IMG, the the DVR takes 30 seconds to return from the channel to the time. Also, the clock is 40 seconds slow. Any ideas?

Is anyone else having a problem with Static DHCP and the new router firmware?

#1 - I keep telling it not to upgrade, and it upgrades anyway, so I'm screwed on this front.

#2 - As soon as a Static IP host renews, the router converts it to a Dynamic IP. Nothing I can do about it. I can convert it back to a Static IP, and on the next renew, it goes Dynamic again.

Argh!

I haven't tried completely zapping it yet, but this is really annoying.

Anyone else having this problem?

Is anyone else having a problem with Static DHCP and the new router firmware?

#1 - I keep telling it not to upgrade, and it upgrades anyway, so I'm screwed on this front.

#2 - As soon as a Static IP host renews, the router converts it to a Dynamic IP. Nothing I can do about it. I can convert it back to a Static IP, and on the next renew, it goes Dynamic again.I found I am experiencing this problem too. I spoke too early before. :(

My static IPs don't last for more than a day or two.

Thanks very for your reply.Having seen Consumer Report's piece and your comments I'm looking forward eagerly for the arrival of FIOS.I hope they have Animal Planet in HD.That and Wealth TV are the two things that Comcast doesn't have that I'd like to see.Superfast internet also sounds interesting.

I've had the newest firmware for a few weeks and my IP address hasn't changed in weeks either.

I've had the newest firmware for a few weeks and my IP address hasn't changed in weeks either.

That's not static DHCP. You don't have/know what we're talking about.

I really like the fios video quality. it really smokes D on SD; better on HD too. But the IMG sucks. Browsing VOD is painfull.

Is anyone else having a problem with Static DHCP and the new router firmware?
#1 - I keep telling it not to upgrade, and it upgrades anyway, so I'm screwed on this front.
#2 - As soon as a Static IP host renews, the router converts it to a Dynamic IP. Nothing I can do about it. I can convert it back to a Static IP, and on the next renew, it goes Dynamic again.
Argh!
I haven't tried completely zapping it yet, but this is really annoying.
Anyone else having this problem?Rants already under way over on DSL reports: http://www.dslreports.com/forum/r19848466-Actiontec-Firmware-40161560107-Bug-Static-IPs

Is anyone else having a problem with Static DHCP and the new router firmware?

#1 - I keep telling it not to upgrade, and it upgrades anyway, so I'm screwed on this front.



Just a thought,
You could add/FW rule to block inbound/outbound traffic to/from upgrade.actiontec.com (198.66.208.93) to keep the upgrade from happening.

Like I said just a thought, a PITA thought, but a thought none-the-less

Just a thought,
You could add/FW rule to block inbound/outbound traffic to/from upgrade.actiontec.com to keep the upgrade from happening.

Like I said just a thought, a PITA thought, but a thought none-the-less

Isn't there a specific inoming TCP port we can block? Like 4567 or something?

I thought the upgrade was all via http (port 80) but I haven't looked into it much ... yet.

If it is a specific port you should be able to block that. If you blocked out bound to the site upgrade.actiontec.com the router would never be able to confirm it is out of date. If you block inbound, it would never be able to download the FW. (I think I would have to do more research, but I am not have the problem, I don't need static DHCP)

Hey just thought of something else...
Have you tried just taking out / making bogus the URL in the
"Check at URL" field?

If it is the wrong URL it would seem that it would not be able to check to see if the FW is out of date.
Of course as a SW eng, I would usually code in a default if the use entered value failed

Found this...
http://www.fiosfaq.com/content.php?contentid=79
Instruction on how to determine the port number and close it.
NOTE: They go out of their way not to easily expose the port # (maybe you should edit it out of above post, and yes that appears to be the correct number)

Hey just thought of something else...
Have you tried just taking out / making bogus the URL in the
"Check at URL" field?

If it is the wrong URL it would seem that it would not be able to check to see if the FW is out of date.
Of course as a SW eng, I would usually code in a default if the use entered value failed

There appear to be two ways to upgrade:
1) Via the built-in upgrade mechanisms (which most of us have turned off)
2) Via some magic Verizon push

I think #2 also allows them to push new firmware. And it doesn't come from the Actiontek upgrade site, it comes from somewhere in Verizon (I think).

For what it's worth, I was getting to almost daily forced upgrades. I blocked port #### last evening, and haven't had a forced upgrade yet. I'll post again in a couple days if this continues to work.

Edit: edited out the port number... PM me if you want it, assuming it's right (a few folks have indicated it is).

Cool...
There is always some magic ;)
You should/could/might edit the Port # out of your posts..and PM it to anyone who needs it there are some Trojans out there that can take advantage of it.

Just being a geek/dork...not that it can't be easily found...feel free to ignore me.

Cool...
There is always some magic ;)
You should/could/might edit the Port # out of your posts..and PM it to anyone who needs it there are some Trojans out there that can take advantage of it.

Just being a geek/dork...not that it can't be easily found...feel free to ignore me.
Not being a Geek, I have not the slightest idea what you guys are talking about with regards to the router issue (if that is indeed the issue). I have the latest router software update and I have no FiOS HDTV/Phone/Internet problems that I can see. Maybe ignorance is bliss. Anyway, I have spent 2 days reviewing the latest posts about this without any 'Eureka! Moment'. Could someone please explain (in short, simple layman's terms) what the problem is or what I should be looking for to see if I have this problem? :confused:

Not being a Geek, I have not the slightest idea what you guys are talking about with regards to the router issue (if that is indeed the issue). I have the latest router software update and I have no FiOS HDTV/Phone/Internet problems that I can see. Maybe ignorance is bliss. Anyway, I have spent 2 days reviewing the latest posts about this without any 'Eureka! Moment'. Could someone please explain (in short, simple layman's terms) what the problem is or what I should be looking for to see if I have this problem? :confused:

If you don't understand, don't worry about it. It's about static DHCP.

Static DHCP is useful if you want your computer to always have the same IP address. This is required for certain programs and if you need to use port forwarding. If you have a large network to manage, then you already know about these things and may choose to use static DHCP addresses. If you only have one or a few computers then let your router handle DHCP.

Static DHCP is useful if you want your computer to always have the same IP address. This is required for certain programs and if you need to use port forwarding. If you have a large network to manage, then you already know about these things and may choose to use static DHCP addresses. If you only have one or a few computers then let your router handle DHCP.

I'm a software professional and am reasonably familiar with networking. However, this is one topic that continues to confuse me. If I'm going to use Static DHCP, why not just assign an IP address to the computer in question? That's what I've done on my home network. Of the 10 devices in my house that make up part of the network (two servers, network printer, two desktop computers, one laptop, XBox 360, PS3, two STBs), six of them have fixed IP addresses and four (360, PS3, two STBs) have dynamically assigned IP addresses.

Can someone help me understand the benefit of using Static DHCP over assigning an IP address to the client, particularly in a small network such as mine.

Actually the correct terminology is a "DHCP reservation".

Regardless, the Actiontec makes them unnecessary as it support firewall rules based on host names. You simply use the host name instead of the IP, and every time your machine gets a new IP the forwarding rules will still work.

The other really nice thing about the ActionTec that I've not seen before on home routers is Dynamic DNS. Every time your machine gets an IP, it updates the ActionTec's local DNS server with your hostname, that way other machines on your network can find each other. Of course I'm sure most of you are using Windows which will use Netbios to discover the name anyways, making the feature less useful.

I'm a software professional and am reasonably familiar with networking. However, this is one topic that continues to confuse me. If I'm going to use Static DHCP, why not just assign an IP address to the computer in question? That's what I've done on my home network. Of the 10 devices in my house that make up part of the network (two servers, network printer, two desktop computers, one laptop, XBox 360, PS3, two STBs), six of them have fixed IP addresses and four (360, PS3, two STBs) have dynamically assigned IP addresses.

Can someone help me understand the benefit of using Static DHCP over assigning an IP address to the client, particularly in a small network such as mine.

If you are going to use Microsoft Remote Desktop Connection, or other similar software to remotely connect to your machine, you need a static IP address. I have my desktop at work set up this way thru my company's IT dept. so I can connect to it directly from any computer. Otherwise it does not matter and DHCP is fine.

Can someone help me understand the benefit of using Static DHCP over assigning an IP address to the client, particularly in a small network such as mine.

It is easier to configure the client.

Everywhere you go just about uses DHCP, so if you set your laptop to static and take it about, you will have to reconfigure it every time you leave, and return. If you use a DHCP reservation instead of a static IP, you never have to reconfigure the client.

In the corp world it is also used so that the clients all have the same config. This makes them easier to manage as you don't have to keep track of who has what static IP. All you have to do is look at the list of DHCP reservations on the DHCP server. This is not recommended on Servers as many services will not work if the server is set to DHCP so instead a set of IP is excluded from the DHCP scope to prevent duplicates on the network.

was wondering if anyone else in the rhode island/new england area had their CNN network channels (CNN, Headline News, CNN International) switch over to mono only? my receiver is pushing out only the center channel for only those stations (SD, analog & digital).

was wondering if anyone else in the rhode island/new england area had their CNN network channels (CNN, Headline News, CNN International) switch over to mono only? my receiver is pushing out only the center channel for only those stations (SD, analog & digital).

I'm not in your service area(obviously) but FWIW Headline News has always been in mono since i've had FiOS. however it's the only ch i get in mono-rest of the CNN tier is 2-ch. the DVR is connected to my AVR via optical cable.

Headline News also comes in with significantly lower audio gain compared to most chs-but I've noticed varience in gain throughout the FiOS chs.

Everywhere you go just about uses DHCP, so if you set your laptop to static and take it about, you will have to reconfigure it every time you leave, and return. If you use a DHCP reservation instead of a static IP, you never have to reconfigure the client.

That makes sense.

In the corp world it is also used so that the clients all have the same config.

I absolutely understand using it in a large network, such as a business. I just didn't see what difference it would really make in a small home network. The example you provided above makes perfect sense though.

I've always assigned IP addresses by the MAC address on my network. I have 30 devices on my network and each IP is assigned to a specific MAC address.

I've always assigned IP addresses by the MAC address on my network. I have 30 devices on my network and each IP is assigned to a specific MAC address.

I assume you mean in the router? Which is what we're all talking about - static DHCP settings.

The newest firmware totally breaks this, but you can block a port and it stops Verizon from forcing upgrades.

I assume you mean in the router? Which is what we're all talking about - static DHCP settings.

The newest firmware totally breaks this, but you can block a port and it stops Verizon from forcing upgrades.



One more reason not to use the Actiontec as my main router. My ONT connectes to a DLink DGL4300 router. The Actiontec is connected to one of my Gigabit switches and is only used for the HD STB(which I never use since they have been slow to offer HD VOD)

was wondering if anyone else in the rhode island/new england area had their CNN network channels (CNN, Headline News, CNN International) switch over to mono only? my receiver is pushing out only the center channel for only those stations (SD, analog & digital).


I'm in NJ, but the same thing is happening to me on all the CNN's. Just center channel. Local commercials on these channels, however, come through in stereo (and nearly blow the windows out of my house as I have to have the normal program turned up so loud to be able to hear).

Actually the correct terminology is a "DHCP reservation".

Regardless, the Actiontec makes them unnecessary as it support firewall rules based on host names. You simply use the host name instead of the IP, and every time your machine gets a new IP the forwarding rules will still work.

The other really nice thing about the ActionTec that I've not seen before on home routers is Dynamic DNS. Every time your machine gets an IP, it updates the ActionTec's local DNS server with your hostname, that way other machines on your network can find each other. Of course I'm sure most of you are using Windows which will use Netbios to discover the name anyways, making the feature less useful.Well, I'm glad to read these latest inputs. Now I know it is all about the internet. Before, I couldn't even figure out which FiOS system you guys were talking about. I am not affected so no more worrying. Thanks! :)

gpd i want to strangle the fios lady on their automated line. have we all gotten so lazy that we have to speak our answers instead of typing them in? i guess it's gotten harder to type your account info in while driving down the freeway sipping your mocha latte and changing radio stations. (yes i know you can type in your selections, but for some reason it doesn't pick up all the digits)

I'm not sure if this have been covered or if it should be in the onkyo 705 thread, but last night I noticed that that while the display on my receiver showed the signal as DD 5.1, the rear speakers were completly silent on some channels, while others seemed fine. I know that ss isn't always being fed to the rears, but I was watching "that thing you do" on uhd and you'd think during the "live" sequences ss would be applied. this is on fios so I figured I'd give it a shot here. thanks.

I'm not sure if this have been covered or if it should be in the onkyo 705 thread, but last night I noticed that that while the display on my receiver showed the signal as DD 5.1, the rear speakers were completly silent on some channels, while others seemed fine. I know that ss isn't always being fed to the rears, but I was watching "that thing you do" on uhd and you'd think during the "live" sequences ss would be applied. this is on fios so I figured I'd give it a shot here. thanks.On some channels / content, there are only 2.0 channels in the DD5.1 bitstream.

On some channels / content, there are only 2.0 channels in the DD5.1 bitstream.
If they do it correctly they will be using DD2.0
But many times they will do it incorrectly and only output the two Left and Right front channels in a DD 5.1 stream which will make the audio only come from those two speakers. While if it's DD 2.0 output you can apply DPLIIx processing to create 7.1 from it.

A Verizon rep is telling residents of Red Bank, NJ (northern NJ) that FIOS will be carrying MSNBC in this area within 60 days.
Can anyone here confirm?
Thanks.

A Verizon rep is telling residents of Red Bank, NJ (northern NJ) that FIOS will be carrying MSNBC in this area within 60 days.
Can anyone here confirm?
Thanks.


That would be cool. I like to flip among the cable networks for election coverage, but I'll believe it when I see it.

A Verizon rep is telling residents of Red Bank, NJ (northern NJ) that FIOS will be carrying MSNBC in this area within 60 days.
Can anyone here confirm?
Thanks.

I have had MSNBC (Channel 84) in Marlton, NJ since my FIOS was installed last summer. I'm surprised that this is not offered nationally.

I have had MSNBC (Channel 84) in Marlton, NJ since my FIOS was installed last summer. I'm surprised that this is not offered nationally.
It IS offered nationally ...
For those of us in The NY/NJ areas where CableVision overlaps, CV has an exclusive carry of MSNBC thru sometime this year, I believe, so only we are Fios "blocked" from MSNBC for now .....

I have had MSNBC (Channel 84) in Marlton, NJ since my FIOS was installed last summer. I'm surprised that this is not offered nationally.
MSNBC is offered nationally. However, in some parts of NJ and NY, Verizon has to block MSNBC because Cablevision has an exclusive agreement with MSNBC to block MSNBC from any other land based service providers in the Cablevision markets. What gets some people in NJ upset is that they are in a Comcast market, but Verizon blocks MSNBC for them because Verizon is blocking out by CO (central office) or a larger area, because the Verizon distribution system does not match the boundary lines of the cable franchise.

Complaints about the MSNBC black out keep popping up every few weeks here and in the FiOS TV forum on dslreports with people wondering when the heck the exclusive arrangement expires. I just posted to a yet another MSNBC thread there about how MSNBC is carried on QAM 108 in the national block so Verizon just needs to turn on the channel for them. With the election season in full tilt, news junkies would like to get MSNBC to go with CNN and Fox News. I get MSNBC, so no issue here. Of course, we would also like CNN-HD to get all the primary coverage from the studio in HD.

More on MSNBC in Northern NJ than you ever wanted to know:

http://www.dslreports.com/forum/r19943761-MSNBC-in-NJ-when-#19950983

For those of us who forget to set their DVR (:o), HDnet will replay the Shuttle Launch in HD at 7 PM EST tonight.

7:00 PM ET 4:00 PM PT NASA on HDNet
Space Shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Launch - After two frustrating months for NASA, trying to fix faulty fuel sensors, Space Shuttle Atlantis is due to blast off from the Kennedy Space Center. Its crew will continue construction on the International Space Station, and try to fix problems on the solar arrays outside the station itself. World Report correspondent Greg Dobbs and veteran shuttle astronaut Sam Gemar will anchor HDNet's live coverage of the launch.
Special Encore Presentation

I just got a letter from Verizon about April being the month that FIOS TV becomes all digital. I wonder how much that will improve the PQ of the non-HD channels?

I'm in Fort Wayne.

There appear to be two ways to upgrade:
1) Via the built-in upgrade mechanisms (which most of us have turned off)
2) Via some magic Verizon push

I think #2 also allows them to push new firmware. And it doesn't come from the Actiontek upgrade site, it comes from somewhere in Verizon (I think).

For what it's worth, I was getting to almost daily forced upgrades. I blocked port #### last evening, and haven't had a forced upgrade yet. I'll post again in a couple days if this continues to work.

Edit: edited out the port number... PM me if you want it, assuming it's right (a few folks have indicated it is).

Well, I just got a forced upgrade again today. Damn it! Is there any way to prevent this? I had port 4567 blocked, which I'm not removing here, since it didn't seem to work.

Anyone know any other ports to block, or where the heck they are upgrading this thing from?

I just got a letter from Verizon about April being the month that FIOS TV becomes all digital. I wonder how much that will improve the PQ of the non-HD channels?

I'm in Fort Wayne.


If you are viewing with a FIOS box, there are no analog channels you are viewing. All the analog channels have a digital version that the FIOS boxes and cable card devices use. The only devices that see the analog channels are devices without cable cards, like TVs with old NTSC tuners.

I just got a letter from Verizon about April being the month that FIOS TV becomes all digital. I wonder how much that will improve the PQ of the non-HD channels?

I'm in Fort Wayne.


Got the same letter today in Richmond, VA. The letter says, among other things, "Shortly after this transition [April], you'll see even more great content from Verizon."

The letter also offers ("for a limited time") free equipment for those that don't have (1) a Verizon STB, (2) Verizon CableCard, or (3) a tv with built-in QAM tuner.

Letter points to www.verizon.com/godigital for more info.

Hope this means the roll-out of more HD will come to Richmond in April.

Got the same letter today in Richmond, VA. The letter says, among other things, "Shortly after this transition [April], you'll see even more great content from Verizon."

The letter also offers ("for a limited time") free equipment for those that don't have (1) a Verizon STB, (2) Verizon CableCard, or (3) a tv with built-in QAM tuner.

Letter points to www.verizon.com/godigital for more info.

Hope this means the roll-out of more HD will come to Richmond in April.

I assume since Hampton Roads is out of the same VHO I should be getting the letter soon, and I hope you are right about the HD coming to us in April.

I've noticed some weird issues the last week, such as HDNet and HDNet Movies being flip flopped one day and some tiling and audio drops(which seem to have fixed themselves now), I'm wondering if they are already doing some of the conversion and QAM changes.

I just got a letter from Verizon about April being the month that FIOS TV becomes all digital. I wonder how much that will improve the PQ of the non-HD channels?

I'm in Fort Wayne.
To expand on aaronwt's reply, there will be no improvement in picture quality for the SD channels because of this. Verizon already passes the national SD channels digitally with a generous bandwidth allocation, compared to DBS or most cable systems. The reason for the analog shutdown is to free up 40 NTSC channels that can be replaced with 40 digital QAM channels for more national HD and SD channels. Verizon also was able to use shutting down the analog channels to get a waiver from the FCC allowing them to delay the requirement to get cablecard enabled STBs (complicated side story).

The letters and putting up the webpage on shutting down the analog channels is very good news. Now we can all begin to check out mail and the net every day to see when the letters are sent to our markets. The sooner this happens, the better.

I am also impressed by the question "How do I know if my TV set has an internal digital tuner (a QAM tuner)?" and the info on the clear QAM tuner option. Most cable companies and CSRs don't even know or acknowledge that the QAM tuner option exists for getting the locals. Perhaps Verizon management realized that by pointing out the clear QAM options for newer TVs, that would save them some capital costs on purchasing the DCT 700s. Sure, they are asking $4/month for the DCT700, but they will very likely be offering 1 per household for free for a year (or 6 months) for the customers who complain loudly. Point out that if you replace the small old TV in the kitchen with a digital LCD TV with a clear QAM tuner, no need for a STB. Let the customer take the cost of replacing the TV feed.

The letters and putting up the webpage on shutting down the analog channels is very good news. Now we can all begin to check out mail and the net every day to see when the letters are sent to our markets. The sooner this happens, the better.

Not so good for all of us. My ReplayTVs, DVR recorder, Slingbox, PC cards and 3 bedroom TVs will all be affected.

Anyone have an issue with the new IMG and HDMI cables on standard def channels?

When I first got FIOS installed, my standard def channels looked really bad using the HDMI cable. Looked great on hi-def channels. So the tech added an S-Video cable and believe it or not the standard def channels looked a lot better. So I was faced with changing sources (HDMI vs S-Video) depending on the channel I was watching. Kind of a pain, but not that big of a deal.

However, now the standard def channels don't come in at all when using HDMI as the source. I have to switch to the S-Video. Any thoughts?

Anyone have an issue with the new IMG and HDMI cables on standard def channels?

When I first got FIOS installed, my standard def channels looked really bad using the HDMI cable. Looked great on hi-def channels. So the tech added an S-Video cable and believe it or not the standard def channels looked a lot better. So I was faced with changing sources (HDMI vs S-Video) depending on the channel I was watching. Kind of a pain, but not that big of a deal.

However, now the standard def channels don't come in at all when using HDMI as the source. I have to switch to the S-Video. Any thoughts?

What??? Something is really screwy. You need to list your TV. I'm guessing:

1) Your TV doesn't support 480i
2) The only way you were getting SD over HDMI before was fixing it at 1080i, and I'm guessing the Moto/SA boxes do a lousy job of upconverting SD internally
3) The new update reset your output settings to Native, or some hybrid, and so your TV can't show the 480i signal again

Agree with AbMagFab- what model is your TV? You should be connecting to component as the next step down from HDMI. No component is a hint that your TV might not support 1080i. Is it widescreen?

Just replaced my STB, so I lost my 11 minutes of HDNet test pattern. I haven't seen it on the HDNet schedule for quite some time. Just checked - it's back!

Sat., Feb. 16th 6:30 AM ET HDNet Test Patterns - Wonder how your home theatre is doing? Wish you had test patterns to help set it up? Well, HDNet is here to help. This short program will help you get the most out of your home theatre setup by providing you with the same professional test patterns HDNet uses to set their gear.

Just replaced my STB, so I lost my 11 minutes of HDNet test pattern. I haven't seen it on the HDNet schedule for quite some time. Just checked - it's back!

Sat., Feb. 16th 6:30 AM ET HDNet Test Patterns - Wonder how your home theatre is doing? Wish you had test patterns to help set it up? Well, HDNet is here to help. This short program will help you get the most out of your home theatre setup by providing you with the same professional test patterns HDNet uses to set their gear.

thanks! as an aside, wasn't there an article about how to calibrate with the HDNet patterns?

thanks! as an aside, wasn't there an article about how to calibrate with the HDNet patterns?

http://www.smartcalibration.com/hdnetpatterns.html

http://www.smartcalibration.com/hdnetpatterns.htmlMy doing this would be like a dog chasing its own tail. Luckily, I am happy with my Pioneer as is and I intend to leave well enough alone. "A man must know his limitations." :D

I have verizon phone and internet fios,if my son moves out and takes the computer with him. i wont hve internet anymore, would i still be able to order verizon fios TV service if i dont have a computor?

i wont hve internet anymore, would i still be able to order verizon fios TV service if i dont have a computor?Yes.

Thanks for your quick reply! as soon as the nba season is over im thinking about switching over to fios from directv, mainly because i want to get the HD TIVO which i miss badly eversince D* put out their own hd-dvrs .im tired of all the resets on those dvrs .BTW any hint of when or if verizon would carry the NBA LEAGUE PASS?

Don't know if anyone else noticed, but there is a selection (a small selection) of HD VOD titles available coming out of VHO8 (Philly). :D I'm not sure if it was related to the update that was pushed out this morning at 4:44, but that is the only thing different I've noticed.

My doing this would be like a dog chasing its own tail. Luckily, I am happy with my Pioneer as is and I intend to leave well enough alone. "A man must know his limitations." :D

i'm pretty happy with my 60 series Pio as well. nothing wrong with trying to get that last ounce out of it though.

Smithsonian Networks(TM) Completes Distribution Deals with Charter Communications and Verizon FiOS TV

Smithsonian Channel(TM) now available to 22 million households

WASHINGTON, Feb. 11 /PRNewswire/ -- Smithsonian Networks today announced a major increase in distribution by signing new agreements with two multi- channel video distributors. Charter Communications and Verizon FiOS TV will carry Smithsonian Channel(TM).

The announcement was made by Tom Hayden, EVP and General Manager for Smithsonian Networks.

The addition of these new distributors makes Smithsonian Channel available to 22 million households and gives the channel a significant presence across multiple distribution platforms.

The carriage agreements also include Smithsonian Channel On Demand(TM), which allows viewers to watch select programs whenever they wish. The Smithsonian Channel On Demand service will be available in both High Definition and standard definition.

Smithsonian Channel's growth in distribution follows the early success and recognition of its programming. Viewers can look forward to a diverse programming slate, telecast entirely in high definition that includes several award winning programs.

One of the channel's early successes was the original documentary, "Remembering Vietnam: The Wall at 25." New York Festivals awarded this powerful and moving film their Gold World Medal. The same award was given to the channel's first original series and one of its signature programs, "Stories from the Vaults" with actor Tom Cavanagh ("Ed") as host. "Sound Revolution", a six-part series hosted by the award winning actor, Morgan Freeman, earned a third Gold World Medal. Showcasing some of the most popular musicians of our time, "Sound Revolution" profiles such renowned musicians as James Brown, B.B. King and Eric Clapton. Finally, a fourth Gold World Medal was awarded to "Day of the Kamikaze", a fascinating docudrama recreating the Japanese suicide attacks against the Allied Fleet in 1945.

"Nature Tech", a three-episode high definition series that examines a new field, bio-mimetics, was awarded Best Limited Series by the Jackson Hole Wildlife Film Festival.

"We're very excited to be working with our new partners and thrilled that they share our desire to provide their customers the best in high definition programming from one of the best known brand names with Smithsonian Channel," said Hayden. "This is great progress for the channel and we look forward to announcing other distribution agreements over the next few months."

http://sev.prnewswire.com/television/20080211/NYM17211022008-1.html

Smithsonian Networks(TM) Completes Distribution Deals with Charter Communications and Verizon FiOS TV

Smithsonian Channel(TM) now available to 22 million households

WASHINGTON, Feb. 11 /PRNewswire/ -- Smithsonian Networks today announced a major increase in distribution by signing new agreements with two multi- channel video distributors. Charter Communications and Verizon FiOS TV will carry Smithsonian Channel(TM).

The announcement was made by Tom Hayden, EVP and General Manager for Smithsonian Networks.

The addition of these new distributors makes Smithsonian Channel available to 22 million households and gives the channel a significant presence across multiple distribution platforms.

The carriage agreements also include Smithsonian Channel On Demand(TM), which allows viewers to watch select programs whenever they wish. The Smithsonian Channel On Demand service will be available in both High Definition and standard definition.

Smithsonian Channel's growth in distribution follows the early success and recognition of its programming. Viewers can look forward to a diverse programming slate, telecast entirely in high definition that includes several award winning programs.

One of the channel's early successes was the original documentary, "Remembering Vietnam: The Wall at 25." New York Festivals awarded this powerful and moving film their Gold World Medal. The same award was given to the channel's first original series and one of its signature programs, "Stories from the Vaults" with actor Tom Cavanagh ("Ed") as host. "Sound Revolution", a six-part series hosted by the award winning actor, Morgan Freeman, earned a third Gold World Medal. Showcasing some of the most popular musicians of our time, "Sound Revolution" profiles such renowned musicians as James Brown, B.B. King and Eric Clapton. Finally, a fourth Gold World Medal was awarded to "Day of the Kamikaze", a fascinating docudrama recreating the Japanese suicide attacks against the Allied Fleet in 1945.

"Nature Tech", a three-episode high definition series that examines a new field, bio-mimetics, was awarded Best Limited Series by the Jackson Hole Wildlife Film Festival.

"We're very excited to be working with our new partners and thrilled that they share our desire to provide their customers the best in high definition programming from one of the best known brand names with Smithsonian Channel," said Hayden. "This is great progress for the channel and we look forward to announcing other distribution agreements over the next few months."

http://sev.prnewswire.com/television/20080211/NYM17211022008-1.html

Wow, actual programming news on the FiOS programming thread

Don't know if anyone else noticed, but there is a selection (a small selection) of HD VOD titles available coming out of VHO8 (Philly). :D I'm not sure if it was related to the update that was pushed out this morning at 4:44, but that is the only thing different I've noticed.

What update? To the IMG? What version and build do you have now?

More on MSNBC in Northern NJ than you ever wanted to know:

http://www.dslreports.com/forum/r19943761-MSNBC-in-NJ-when-#19950983

No one seems to be answering one simple question. When does the exclusive contract between MSNBC and Cablevision expire? Is this a major secret that someone does not want exposed?

Wow, actual programming news on the FiOS programming thread
Yes, this thread has been quiet lately. I'm surprised that there have been so few comments on the few HD programs in the HDTV VOD folder that have shown up and then disappear in a number of the markets.

For the past few days, we have had 2 CSI (Las Vegas) episodes in HD in a HDTV folder in the northern VA and I assume the rest of the Washington Metro market. I played a few minutes of one of them. It was HD, but I saw macroblocking on fast motion, so I wonder if it was compressed to a 14 to 15 Mb/s data rate to save room and bandwidth. There were no closed captions either, which would be a problem for me if there are no CC for VOD programs. I have rarely accessed VOD because it was all SD.

There are also the widespread reports of severe shortages of HD STB and 6416 HD-DVRs where new subscribers will soon not be able to get a HD box, possibly for months, and will get SD boxes only to tide them over. No comments on that here either.

For clarification, the Engadget report said that as a result of the shortage, it could take "up to a month" to receive one. There's no indication that the shortage is "severe" either. http://www.engadgethd.com/2008/02/05/verizon-running-low-on-fios-tv-hd-boxes/

It probably hasn't received a lot of attention because for those of us without a FiOS distribution center (i.e., almost all of us), it takes a week to get a tech onsite with an STB anyway.

I noticed these HD CSI episodes in the FIOS On-Demand menu last night, along with some Golf Magazine titles. Hope that means there's more to come for the rest us.

i'm pretty happy with my 60 series Pio as well. nothing wrong with trying to get that last ounce out of it though.The HD SONY I had before my current Pioneer was professionally calibrated and I didn't notice that much difference afterward. Certainly not worth the money I paid to have it done by a very good tech. Every situation is different though and that's OK by me.

Wow, actual programming news on the FiOS programming threadOne cannot have programming news without there first being programming news. :D

I did a search, and although it gets mentioned every few months, I've not found any good answers: Is there any reason to think FIOS is getting LeaguePass anytime soon? I've waited long enough, and finally broke down and ordered a minimal install of TW Cable just to get LeaguePass, but wanted to check one last time before the installer shows up.

Joe

IM pretty sure since their halfway through the nba season that they probably wont have nba league pass this season,but i'm hoping verizon will have for the start of the 2008-09 season. man i need a tivo fix badly!!!! everytime i walk into our local sears store and see the HD tivo demo on that 42' panasonic plasma HD tv i star to drool at the mouth and my wife has to drag me out of the store!

Recently CSN-NE announced that they will FINALLY begin broadcasting the Celtics away games in HD. However, they are only doing so on Comcast with other providers being "worked with" (or over I bet) to provide the away games in HD.

Anyone have any info when FIOS subscribers in NE will get those? I'm also thinking that this may be a good sign for the other regional CSN viewers somewhere down the line.

What update? To the IMG? What version and build do you have now?

I only assume it was an update since my boxes power cycled @ 4:44 am.

Version 1.0.4 Build 5.68

I got the same update early this morning. Out of curiosity, jimrimback, how do you know it power cycled at 4:44AM?

I just tried to order an additional HD stb and they said they're out and to call back in March. They won't even take my order now and ship one out when it's available. :mad:

Any news on when new HD channels will show up? How about HBO, Starz... HD VOD?

Any news on when new HD channels will show up? How about HBO, Starz... HD VOD?

Didn't HBO recently discontinue their HD VOD?

As far as new HD channels, the following dates were posted on DSLR for the elimination of analog channels and addition of ~30 new HD channels. It may or may not be accurate. I have no confirmation.

IN(VHO10) 4/1
VA(VHO9) 4/7
VA(VHO9a) 4/14
NY(VHO5) 4/21
MA(VHO6) 5/12
RI(VHO6a) 5/12
DE(VHO8) 6/2
PA(VHO8) 6/2
NJ(VHO8) 6/2
NJ(VHO7) 6/23
MD(VHO4) 7/21
VA(VHO4) 7/21
FL(VHO2) 8/18
CA(VHO3) 9/1
TX(VHO1) 9/22

Looks like those in TX, CA, FL, and the DC area are in for a long wait.

Didn't HBO recently discontinue their HD VOD?

As far as new HD channels, the following dates were posted on DSLR for the elimination of analog channels and addition of ~30 new HD channels. It may or may not be accurate. I have no confirmation.

VA(VHO9) 4/7
VA(VHO9a) 4/14
VA(VHO4) 7/21



There are 3 for VA, can you be more specific as to which part of VA these are: Richmond, Hampton, NoVA.

There are 3 for VA, can you be more specific as to which part of VA these are: Richmond, Hampton, NoVA.

Richmond is VHO9, Hampton Roads is VHO9a and NoVA is VHO4.

Richmond is VHO9, Hampton Roads is VHO9a and NoVA is VHO4.

Thanks.


As far as new HD channels, the following dates were posted on DSLR for the elimination of analog channels and addition of ~30 new HD channels. It may or may not be accurate. I have no confirmation.

VA(VHO9) 4/7


So does that mean they will start adding HD channels as soon as the analogs are gone? or will they wait until everyone has been converted to all digital, then roll out the HD's?

This will make me switch to Verizon (Richmond) soon. Now if they only had HD-DVR's.

Thanks.



So does that mean they will start adding HD channels as soon as the analogs are gone? or will they wait until everyone has been converted to all digital, then roll out the HD's?

This will make me switch to Verizon (Richmond) soon. Now if they only had HD-DVR's.

What has been rumored(by fairly reliable sources in the past) is that they will be added market by market, whether this is right after the analogs is shut off is anybody's guess, but we should not have to wait until they finish up in TX to get the new HDs.

CA(VHO3) 9/1
Son of a ...

If this is true it really bums me out. I was very much hoping to get SPEED HD so that I could see F1 races in HD if it happend. I was also hoping for something earlier than September for IFC HD, CNN HD, MGM HD, and TBS HD. NHL and VS HD can wait since I figured the hockey season would be nearly over by the time they got to California, but it looks like I may be in the same boat for baseball season as well.

So does that mean they will start adding HD channels as soon as the analogs are gone?I've confirmed that Verizon will start adding the new HD channels just after the analogs are gone. I haven't been able to confirm whether Verizon will add all ~30 channels at once on that day, or whether they will do it incrementally.

I would guess that it will be done incrementally, perhaps over the course of a month or two.

A humorous update on my LeaguePass install: TWC was scheduled to come out yesterday and do a minimal install on my one TV for a basic package plus NBA LP. He took one look and said "you have a two-story house" (I knew that already). "We can't add an outlet on the 2nd story. We used to have an outside contractor that did those installs, but now they don't do them either" So TWC won't install in a 2-story house? "That's right, sir - not if they have to install a new outlet on the 2nd story" Wow!

Didn't HBO recently discontinue their HD VOD?

As far as new HD channels, the following dates were posted on DSLR for the elimination of analog channels and addition of ~30 new HD channels. It may or may not be accurate. I have no confirmation.

IN(VHO10) 4/1
VA(VHO9) 4/7
VA(VHO9a) 4/14
NY(VHO5) 4/21
MA(VHO6) 5/12
RI(VHO6a) 5/12
DE(VHO8) 6/2
PA(VHO8) 6/2
NJ(VHO8) 6/2
NJ(VHO7) 6/23
MD(VHO4) 7/21
VA(VHO4) 7/21
FL(VHO2) 8/18
CA(VHO3) 9/1
TX(VHO1) 9/22

Looks like those in TX, CA, FL, and the DC area are in for a long wait.

Where on DSLR is this stuff posted? I couldn't find it anywhere.

Where on DSLR is this stuff posted? I couldn't find it anywhere.http://www.dslreports.com/forum/r19968641-

I forgot to ask earlier but is this in addition to the QAM upgrades or is this the same thing/part of it?

I got the same update early this morning. Out of curiosity, jimrimback, how do you know it power cycled at 4:44AM?

The farging thing woke me up with it's clicking on and off. :mad:

Didn't HBO recently discontinue their HD VOD?

As far as new HD channels, the following dates were posted on DSLR for the elimination of analog channels and addition of ~30 new HD channels. It may or may not be accurate. I have no confirmation.

IN(VHO10) 4/1
VA(VHO9) 4/7
VA(VHO9a) 4/14
NY(VHO5) 4/21
MA(VHO6) 5/12
RI(VHO6a) 5/12
DE(VHO8) 6/2
PA(VHO8) 6/2
NJ(VHO8) 6/2
NJ(VHO7) 6/23
MD(VHO4) 7/21
VA(VHO4) 7/21
FL(VHO2) 8/18
CA(VHO3) 9/1
TX(VHO1) 9/22

Looks like those in TX, CA, FL, and the DC area are in for a long wait.

Thanks for the info, I didn't know about HBO's stopping HD VOD. What free or subscription based HD VOD would be available?

BTW - being in Boston, I'm glad it's May, my condolences to later markets.

Actually the list on DSL shows two dates for all areas: for example for MA & RI it shows 3/12 5/12

Actually the list on DSL shows two dates for all areas: for example for MA & RI it shows 3/12 5/12
Yes, but the first date is the notification date where the letters go out. That starts the 60 day window for people to order and install the DCT700s for the analog TVs or get a new TV with a clear QAM tuner to get the locals. The key date is the analog shutdown for the VHO.

Being in northern VA, I really wish they would speed the shutdown up to before 7/21. Come on, how about swapping us off with VHO7 in NJ? I'm sure they won't mind. :D I do have to admit, if Comcast had HDNet and HDNet Movies, I might semi-seriously think about swapping to them for 6 months as Comcast in my county now has Sci-Fi HD, USA HD, CNN HD, and other HD channels not on Fios.

OTOH, the early subscribers in TX are definitely not getting the HD love from Verizon.

Gottcha! Thanks for the clarification!

Any news on when new HD channels will show up? How about HBO, Starz... HD VOD?

I've had HD VOD for a few days now here south of Boston. A handful of movies, a few network shows, etc. Actually watched The Kingdom. Picture quality was excellent and only had two quick stutters of the video which is pretty good since the bandwidth for HD VOD must be huge. Only complaint was that they did not have Dolby Digital for the movie.

Didn't HBO recently discontinue their HD VOD?

As far as new HD channels, the following dates were posted on DSLR for the elimination of analog channels and addition of ~30 new HD channels. It may or may not be accurate. I have no confirmation.

IN(VHO10) 4/1
VA(VHO9) 4/7
VA(VHO9a) 4/14
NY(VHO5) 4/21
MA(VHO6) 5/12
RI(VHO6a) 5/12
DE(VHO8) 6/2
PA(VHO8) 6/2
NJ(VHO8) 6/2
NJ(VHO7) 6/23
MD(VHO4) 7/21
VA(VHO4) 7/21
FL(VHO2) 8/18
CA(VHO3) 9/1
TX(VHO1) 9/22

Looks like those in TX, CA, FL, and the DC area are in for a long wait.

Any news for Oregon? I believe they don't even provide the Analogs in Oregon at all (at time of install, the technician said I'd need a box on every tv because the signal is all digital). Maybe Oregon will be at the front of the line? One can hope, anyway...thank you everyone for the info.

Being in northern VA, I really wish they would speed the shutdown up to before 7/21. Come on, how about swapping us off with VHO7 in NJ? I'm sure they won't mind. :D I do have to admit, if Comcast had HDNet and HDNet Movies, I might semi-seriously think about swapping to them for 6 months as Comcast in my county now has Sci-Fi HD, USA HD, CNN HD, and other HD channels not on Fios.

OTOH, the early subscribers in TX are definitely not getting the HD love from Verizon.

We mind. After all you can live in NJ or live in one of those 49 poor states.

Any news for Oregon? I believe they don't even provide the Analogs in Oregon at all (at time of install, the technician said I'd need a box on every tv because the signal is all digital). Maybe Oregon will be at the front of the line? One can hope, anyway...thank you everyone for the info.I believe Oregon is supposed to be first with the new channels.

Yes, but the first date is the notification date where the letters go out. That starts the 60 day window for people to order and install the DCT700s for the analog TVs or get a new TV with a clear QAM tuner to get the locals. The key date is the analog shutdown for the VHO.

Being in northern VA, I really wish they would speed the shutdown up to before 7/21. Come on, how about swapping us off with VHO7 in NJ? I'm sure they won't mind. :D I do have to admit, if Comcast had HDNet and HDNet Movies, I might semi-seriously think about swapping to them for 6 months as Comcast in my county now has Sci-Fi HD, USA HD, CNN HD, and other HD channels not on Fios. Comcast delayed the launch of those channels in [in most of] N. VA until March 4. They were scheduled to launch last week.

Comcast does have a nice promo in our area at the moment. You can get a year of digital service with HBO and HD for about $54/mo, or you can get six months for about $44/mo ($89.95/mo after six months).

I would switch for the next six months if Comcast weren't increasing compression to squeeze three channels per QAM. Unfortunately, Comcast determined that "HDTV Lite" is the solution to make room for new channels. I am waiting to see which Comcast channels get the "HDTV Lite" treatment next month in our area. If they aren't channels I care about, I'll probably switch -- swapping the CableCards in my TiVo -- until FiOS adds its new channels. I do like the Hdnets, but I like CNN-HD + Sci-Fi (specifically, BSG in HD) more.

Regardless, I'll keep my FiOS Internet.

I believe Oregon is supposed to be first with the new channels.

I guess we'll all find out together...looking forward to more "HD" choices...although I can't complain about what I've got at this point in moving from limited basic comcastic service to FiOS Premier tv package...

I wonder if the new channels include a possible March rollout for Oregon or if it will stretch into April.

I got my automated phone call from FiOS today saying that the analog to digital conversion will begin 1 April.

Being in northern VA, I really wish they would speed the shutdown up to before 7/21.
OTOH, the early subscribers in TX are definitely not getting the HD love from Verizon.

Yes, I too hoped for analog shutdown in NoVA earlier, but a shutdown is a shutdown. TX maybe last because it is the oldest FiOS VHO. Just a possibility, I have no evidence to back it up, just plausible.

Yes, I too hoped for analog shutdown in NoVA earlier, but a shutdown is a shutdown. TX maybe last because it is the oldest FiOS VHO. Just a possibility, I have no evidence to back it up, just plausible.

I am sure that is correct. The older the VHO, probably the more difficult it will be to convert.

So just to be clear.
Verizon isn't upgrading their network this year, they are just eliminating the analog channels to make more room for HD?

Sucks to live in Tampa, maybe I'll save myself $360 and cancel until they roll out in August.

I'm betting they're doing both at the same time. Otherwise they could just cut the analogs all at the same time to save bandwidth.

So just to be clear.
Verizon isn't upgrading their network this year, they are just eliminating the analog channels to make more room for HD?

Up to 150 HD channels by the end of 2008, so I'm guessing they're doing both. Perhaps the analog shutoff is in some way connected to the QAM upgrades.

So just to be clear.
Verizon isn't upgrading their network this year, they are just eliminating the analog channels to make more room for HD?
Yes, for more national HD and SD channels. The system has a reported limit of 103 channels of either type at the COs and VHS out of the 135 that the STB and DVR can tune to. The newer COs have 63 QAM physical channels, the older ones initially had 54 QAM channels (in Sterling, VA I find 56 QAM channels with a scan, up from 54 before November). The primary reason for killing the 40 analog channels this soon is to free up the bandwidth to install up to 40 QAM channels, which in turn will provide capacity for a bunch more HD and SD channels. There is a longer term plan to build out the system to provide a full set of 135 QAM channels, reportedly by the end of 2008. They need something close to the 135 QAM channels to get to the 150 HD channels Verizon has claimed in their press statements. This has been discussed in this thread and elsewhere many times.

The two most recent markets added to Fios, OR and western PA (Pittsburgh), are digital only from the start, so they will likely see the new national HD channels first or get them when IN and central & SE VA get them.

Thanks for the clarification. Since I prefer to get my locals OTA, right now I'm paying about $60 a month to watch Discovery, Nat Geo and HD.net Movies in HD. The only reason I haven't cancel up until now is I was holding out for more HD channels. Just not sure it's worth the money, but what I'd hate to happen is as soon as I cancel and turn in my CableCARDs, they go and add a bunch of channels.

Either way I'll sign back up in August, afterall I gotta have my football.

The only reason I haven't cancel up until now is I was holding out for more HD channels. Just not sure it's worth the money, but what I'd hate to happen is as soon as I cancel and turn in my CableCARDs, they go and add a bunch of channels.
That's exactly what happened when I switch from Comcast to FIOS. I jumped for the lower cost and more HD channels at that time. But Comcast added way more HD channels since then. Right this morning, I read they added Sci-Fi HD to Boston market. Another channel I wish I had. :(

V* charges me $116 that includes basic,hbo,movie package,1 media hd dvr,1hd dvr,2 digital boxes and a cable card.With comcast and all features,boxes and channels it would cost $211.Plus a couple more months will have 60 PURE hd channels.Its worth being patience.

Set your DVR for HDNet's coverage of the shuttle landing on Wednesday morning.

Wed, Feb 20 - 8:30 AM ET 5:30 AM PT NASA on HDNet - LIVE!
Space Shuttle Atlantis STS-122 Landing - After delivering and installing the Columbus Laboratory on the International Space Station, the crew of Shuttle Atlantis returns to Earth. Live coverage from Cape Canaveral, FL.

http://hd.net/program_search_results.html?keyword=nasa&whattosearch=both&ws=1

Has anyone found HDNet's Test Pattern in the IMG? I tried searching for every keyword I could think of and nothing is listed. I don't see a way to search by day /time unless I'm missing something. I could do that in the old guide.

Sat, Feb 23 - 6:30 AM ET 3:30 AM PT HDNet Test Patterns
Wonder how your home theatre is doing? Wish you had test patterns to help set it up? Well, HDNet is here to help. This short program will help you get the most out of your home theatre setup by providing you with the same professional test patterns HDNet uses to set their gear.

http://hd.net/program_search_results.html?keyword=test%20pattern&whattosearch=both&ws=1

I think it's called "off-air" by Verizon.

Tried it. There's no '-' selection on the keypad. Tried HDNet, HD (a lot), test, test pattern. No luck. I'm not going to search in the guide manually. I'm looking for a way to jump to a day/time in the IMG. Don't see one. I can always do a manual recording, but not yet.

I would imagine SciFi would be pretty high on FIOS' priorty as they need to compete with Comcast.

I would imagine SciFi would be pretty high on FIOS' priorty as they need to compete with Comcast.

I wish!

Yes, but the first date is the notification date where the letters go out. That starts the 60 day window for people to order and install the DCT700s for the analog TVs or get a new TV with a clear QAM tuner to get the locals. The key date is the analog shutdown for the VHO.

Being in northern VA, I really wish they would speed the shutdown up to before 7/21. Come on, how about swapping us off with VHO7 in NJ? I'm sure they won't mind. :D I do have to admit, if Comcast had HDNet and HDNet Movies, I might semi-seriously think about swapping to them for 6 months as Comcast in my county now has Sci-Fi HD, USA HD, CNN HD, and other HD channels not on Fios.

OTOH, the early subscribers in TX are definitely not getting the HD love from Verizon.


I'm very tempted. Comcast sends me a flyer every week with an offer of $72.95 for Phone, INternet and TV. And the TV includes an HD DVR plus HBO, Starz, and Showtime. All for a year at that price per month. It is very tempting. And I would probably take it if the Comcast internet speed was close to the FIOS speed, but it's not around here. Comcast has 30mbs powerboost here, but after 20 seconds it drops back to 8mbs while with FIOS it is steady at 30 mbs.

I'm very tempted. Comcast sends me a flyer every week with an offer of $72.95 for Phone, INternet and TV. And the TV includes an HD DVR plus HBO, Starz, and Showtime. All for a year at that price per month. It is very tempting. And I would probably take it if the Comcast internet speed was close to the FIOS speed, but it's not around here. Comcast has 30mbs powerboost here, but after 20 seconds it drops back to 8mbs while with FIOS it is steady at 30 mbs.30mbps powerboost? Hah! Nonsense. I have 16/2 here on Comcast. FIOS offers competive 15/15, and they do offer the 30/15Mbps tier except they charge $90/mos for it (not bloody likey!!!) and all these are annual fees. To be honest I think for gaming the 15/15 is better than 16/2. Hopefully FIOS will jack up the speeds before Comcast goes DOCSIS 3.0.

does Verizon have something like a retention center? I'd like to see if I can get some free stuff from them, because the competitions are tempting me with all kinds of deals while Verizon twiddles its thumb. If rumors are true, the analogs in my area won't be shut off til Sept. Yikes.

does Verizon have something like a retention center? I'd like to see if I can get some free stuff from them, because the competitions are tempting me with all kinds of deals while Verizon twiddles its thumb. If rumors are true, the analogs in my area won't be shut off til Sept. Yikes.No.

They can credit you for any billing mistakes. They can also credit you for the cost of the DVR if you complain loudly enough about bugs. But there are no retention credits or discounts. Such discounts are already factored into the price of the service -- that's why FiOS TV costs $42.99 instead of Comcast's $62.99.

30mbps powerboost? Hah! Nonsense. I have 16/2 here on Comcast. FIOS offers competive 15/15, and they do offer the 30/15Mbps tier except they charge $90/mos for it (not bloody likey!!!) and all these are annual fees. To be honest I think for gaming the 15/15 is better than 16/2. Hopefully FIOS will jack up the speeds before Comcast goes DOCSIS 3.0.

Before I switched to FIOS last year I had Comcast. We have the 30mbs Powerboost here, but the highest speed tier is 8mbs. I consistently hit 30mbs in the speed tests with Comcast becasue of the 30mbs powerboost. But of course after 20 seconds or so it would drop back down to 8mbs while FIOS stays consistent at 30mbs with large downloads. I pay FIOS $55 a month for the 30/5 tier here. At least until my first year is up in September. I have no idea what will happen after that.

does Verizon have something like a retention center? I'd like to see if I can get some free stuff from them, because the competitions are tempting me with all kinds of deals while Verizon twiddles its thumb. If rumors are true, the analogs in my area won't be shut off til Sept. Yikes.


My 1 year $95 "triple play" contract was to expire in March. Overall I'm pretty happy with the service so I signed up for another 2 years at the same price and they threw in the movie package for 4 months for free. I'm in northern NJ.

My 1 year $95 "triple play" contract was to expire in March. Overall I'm pretty happy with the service so I signed up for another 2 years at the same price and they threw in the movie package for 4 months for free. I'm in northern NJ.

I originally signed up for the 15/2 service here in MA, then called them about 4 months into it. I talked to a regular representative (not a retention person) and said I'd like to save some money. She went over all my service and we worked out that I could upgrade to 20/5 (which I have now) for the same price as the 15/2, and changed some of the TV pricing. I signed up for two years and locked in the price. Overall, it was more an increase in capability with a little bit lower price, but I got a lot more out of it.

Now, I avoid the price increases for the next two years, so I think I make out in the long haul and don't have to deal with Comcast's phantom high speed service (I had 8 Mbit which usually meant 3 to 3.5 Mbits actual).

Any word of new channels heading to Fios? I read in the prior postings nothing till another couple of months?

Any word of new channels heading to Fios? I read in the prior postings nothing till another couple of months?See this post (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13099835#post13099835).

She went over all my service and we worked out that I could upgrade to 20/5 (which I have now) for the same price as the 15/2, and changed some of the TV pricing.

I would guess that they no longer offer the 15/2 package in MA. They probably did the same thing that they did here in NJ, they increased the speed packages but didn't automatically provision your service for the bump in speed.

When I had mine bumped almost 2 years ago, I asked the Encore rep if they were going to bump everyone at a certain point and he said no, we're only bumping the speed when people call in and ask about it.

I originally signed up for the 15/2 service here in MA, then called them about 4 months into it. I talked to a regular representative (not a retention person) and said I'd like to save some money. She went over all my service and we worked out that I could upgrade to 20/5 (which I have now) for the same price as the 15/2, and changed some of the TV pricing. I signed up for two years and locked in the price. Overall, it was more an increase in capability with a little bit lower price, but I got a lot more out of it.

Now, I avoid the price increases for the next two years, so I think I make out in the long haul and don't have to deal with Comcast's phantom high speed service (I had 8 Mbit which usually meant 3 to 3.5 Mbits actual).

I would guess that they no longer offer the 15/2 package in MA. They probably did the same thing that they did here in NJ, they increased the speed packages but didn't automatically provision your service for the bump in speed.

When I had mine bumped almost 2 years ago, I asked the Encore rep if they were going to bump everyone at a certain point and he said no, we're only bumping the speed when people call in and ask about it.


My package is for the 20/5 service, also. The 15/2 was not offered when I signed up for the package in March of '07.

sorry, to re-hash an old topic, but i'm a little confused about the analog shut off and QAM channels.

i want to pick up a small LCD for my bedroom but i'd like to wall mount and not have a STB. what, if any channels would i receive just by connecting the coax to the tv? the HD channels are carried by the QAM channels, right? so if the tv had a QAM tuner, i'd be able to see those? the ATSC channels (SD) are encrypted and would require a STB to view, correct?

i want to pick up a small LCD for my bedroom but i'd like to wall mount and not have a STB. what, if any channels would i receive just by connecting the coax to the tv? the HD channels are carried by the QAM channels, right? so if the tv had a QAM tuner, i'd be able to see those? the ATSC channels (SD) are encrypted and would require a STB to view, correct?
All of the channels on Fios are carried on QAM sub-channels. The current set of analog channels have been simulcast in digital from the beginning, so the analog shutdown has NO effect on people with Verizon STBs, DVRs, or QAM tuners (except to free up bandwidth).

If you connect a clear QAM tuner to Fios, you will get all the SD channels that are on 2 to 49 in the clear in the QAM 63 to 68 range, except for WGN which is on QAM 55. What is sent in the clear are the SD and HD locals, the PEGs (public/educational/govt), and the music channels (QAM 66 and 84). All of the national SD and HD national channels are encrypted.

The digital broadcast locals with all the HD and SD sub-channels are placed starting at QAM 71. Verizon is passing the PSIP channel mapping info for the digital broadcast locals, so the newer tuners should map them to the broadcast channel #. In northern VA, the locals are mapped to 4-1, 4-2, 5-1, 7-1, and up to 67-1 for the MPT HD channel. A digital QAM channel scan here will turn up some 400 to 500 sub-channels ranging from QAM 55 to 126. You may have to pick out the locals from that and remove the encrypted channels from your scan results.

As noted earlier, the plan (I believe) is that FIOS will do away with the analog channels. This means that where now you can receive the channels provided through an analog (no STB) connection directly to a TV, as soon as the analog channels are gone, you will need an STB to decode the signals.
No! A clear QAM tuner will get you the local broadcast stations and all their sub-channels as I just posted. Verizon even makes a note of this on their Go Digital info web page:
http://www22.verizon.com/content/fiostv/godigital.html?LOBCode=C&PromoTCode=DIG01&PromoSrcCode=S&POEId=VU1SP. However, if you want to get CNN, ESPN-HD, the Weather Channel or other national cable channels, you will need a STB or cable card set up.

All of the channels on Fios are carried on QAM sub-channels. The current set of analog channels have been simulcast in digital from the beginning, so the analog shutdown has NO effect on people with Verizon STBs, DVRs, or QAM tuners (except to free up bandwidth).

If you connect a clear QAM tuner to Fios, you will get all the SD channels that are on 2 to 49 in the clear in the QAM 63 to 68 range, except for WGN which is on QAM 55. What is sent in the clear are the SD and HD locals, the PEGs (public/educational/govt), and the music channels (QAM 66 and 84). All of the national SD and HD national channels are encrypted.

The digital broadcast locals with all the HD and SD sub-channels are placed starting at QAM 71. Verizon is passing the PSIP channel mapping info for the digital broadcast locals, so the newer tuners should map them to the broadcast channel #. In northern VA, the locals are mapped to 4-1, 4-2, 5-1, 7-1, and up to 67-1 for the MPT HD channel. A digital QAM channel scan here will turn up some 400 to 500 sub-channels ranging from QAM 55 to 126. You may have to pick out the locals from that and remove the encrypted channels from your scan results.

well that sucks. i'm trying to free up some space in the bedroom which is why i want to wall mount. not having a table for the STB would be great.

well that sucks. i'm trying to free up some space in the bedroom which is why i want to wall mount. not having a table for the STB would be great.

Sucks? - How so? I would have though you would be elated by afiggatt's explanation. Unless you want ESPN, HDNET, or any of the other HD nationals in your bedroom, you can easily do without the table.

Anyone else see the problem that if they try to record CSN-HD, it always defaults to the SD channel?

It has been occurring since the IMG rollout in PA.

I am trying to record an HD program (the flyers game). It is not widescreen only, it's HD.

I tried several scenarios:
1. Record it ahead of time (defaults to 65, the SD Channel)
2. Record it as a manual recording (defaults to 65)
3. Record it as it's playing - I'm on the channel and hitting the record button (defaults to 65)

Sucks? - How so? I would have though you would be elated by afiggatt's explanation. Unless you want ESPN, HDNET, or any of the other HD nationals in your bedroom, you can easily do without the table.

I doubt he'd pay for FiOS service if all he wanted were local channels.

and now for a completely different topic....

Does anyone here know if the HD locals are included in Verizon's "local only" FiOS package (the one for $12.99/mo)?

I am just wondering while I consider some options....

and now for a completely different topic....

Does anyone here know if the HD locals are included in Verizon's "local only" FiOS package (the one for $12.99/mo)?Yes, they are. The HD locals on Verizon FiOS are unencrypted QAM.

Sucks? - How so? I would have though you would be elated by afiggatt's explanation. Unless you want ESPN, HDNET, or any of the other HD nationals in your bedroom, you can easily do without the table.

i want the same channel selection upstairs that i get down stairs. often times there's nothing to watch with 200 channels. i'd imagine it to be even harder at times with 49.

No! A clear QAM tuner will get you the local broadcast stations and all their sub-channels as I just posted. Verizon even makes a note of this on their Go Digital info web page:
http://www22.verizon.com/content/fiostv/godigital.html?LOBCode=C&PromoTCode=DIG01&PromoSrcCode=S&POEId=VU1SP. However, if you want to get CNN, ESPN-HD, the Weather Channel or other national cable channels, you will need a STB or cable card set up.

Agreed - which is why I removed the post as soon as I regained my wits. I didn't want to give out inaccurate info. I assumed he wanted all of the channels, but realized that he probably wanted the minimal number of channels.

Anyone else see the problem that if they try to record CSN-HD, it always defaults to the SD channel?

It has been occurring since the IMG rollout in PA.

I am trying to record an HD program (the flyers game). It is not widescreen only, it's HD.

I tried several scenarios:
1. Record it ahead of time (defaults to 65, the SD Channel)
2. Record it as a manual recording (defaults to 65)
3. Record it as it's playing - I'm on the channel and hitting the record button (defaults to 65)
Hi Dawn, this has been a problem since the new IMG was implemented. I noticed it day one when I tried to record a Flyers game. I reported it to VZ on 1/16 and it looks like as of this morning it's finally fixed. Adding only 829 to Favorites should also work now.

Give it another go!

Anyone else see the problem that if they try to record CSN-HD, it always defaults to the SD channel?

It has been occurring since the IMG rollout in PA.

I am trying to record an HD program (the flyers game). It is not widescreen only, it's HD.

I tried several scenarios:
1. Record it ahead of time (defaults to 65, the SD Channel)
2. Record it as a manual recording (defaults to 65)
3. Record it as it's playing - I'm on the channel and hitting the record button (defaults to 65)

Can you just remove the SD channel? Or go get a Tivo HD and stop fussing with the IMG.

Hi Dawn, this has been a problem since the new IMG was implemented. I noticed it day one when I tried to record a Flyers game. I reported it to VZ on 1/16 and it looks like as of this morning it's finally fixed. Adding only 829 to Favorites should also work now.

Give it another go!

Wow, it only took them over a month! ;)

Thanks for the actual solution! (Not saying buying a Tivo isn't a solution, but I don't want to put out MONEY for a solution!)

My hero! (and my hubbies!)

Dawn

Yes, but the first date is the notification date where the letters go out. That starts the 60 day window for people to order and install the DCT700s for the analog TVs or get a new TV with a clear QAM tuner to get the locals. The key date is the analog shutdown for the VHO.

Being in northern VA, I really wish they would speed the shutdown up to before 7/21. Come on, how about swapping us off with VHO7 in NJ? I'm sure they won't mind. :D I do have to admit, if Comcast had HDNet and HDNet Movies, I might semi-seriously think about swapping to them for 6 months as Comcast in my county now has Sci-Fi HD, USA HD, CNN HD, and other HD channels not on Fios.

OTOH, the early subscribers in TX are definitely not getting the HD love from Verizon.

Look, I don't mind waiting until 7/21. What I DO mind is paying the same amount for my service for 3+ months when others, paying the same amount, have 30 more HD channels than I do.

Look, I don't mind waiting until 7/21. What I DO mind is paying the same amount for my service for 3+ months when others, paying the same amount, have 30 more HD channels than I do.

Anyone know what those 30 HD channels will be? I've been thinking of switching from Comcast and this would tip the scale. --Now if they only had HD equipment.

Anyone know what those 30 HD channels will be? I've been thinking of switching from Comcast and this would tip the scale. --Now if they only had HD equipment.That number would cover virtually every HD channel currently available at the time.

If you were to make a list of what DirecTV has and FiOS doesn't:

Big Ten HD
CNN HD
TLC HD
Science Channel HD
Smithsonian HD
TBS HD
Versus HD / Golf Channel HD
Weather Channel HD
SHO Too HD
Starz Comedy HD
Starz Edge HD
Starz Kids and Family
Bravo
SCI FI
USA Network
CNBC
MGM
Fox Business Network
FX HD
Speed Network HD
Fuel HD
The Cartoon Network
NBA HD
NHL Network HD
Nickelodeon HD East
Spike HD
Country Music Television
VH1 HD
Biography HD
CSTV
Aside from the premiums, only a handful of the above channels currently offer more than two hours of HD per day.

Disney HD and ESPNews HD launch in the next month or two, so I would expect them to be on the list.

I don't know if others have this problem, but here in MA the local advertising inserts from Verizon are horribly loud, much louder than the adjacent material. This isn't the usual "the commercials are always louder" complaint, the within-program commercials are always at a level consistent with the overall program volume. It's the inserts from Verizon (often for On-Demand movies or ads from trial lawyer James Sokolove) that are ridiculously loud. If I've set the volume to an adequate level for watching a channel with an overall low level like The Golf Channel, I'll be blasted across the room when the insert comes on. This is especially annoying during late-night viewing when you're trying not to wake up the rest of the household. I have to dig out the remote to mute the channel when this occurs.

Does anyone from Verizon monitor threads like these? (If they don't, they're certainly missing out on some very valuable customer feedback.) If you're out there, Mr. or Ms. Verizon Rep, don't be shy; speak up!

I don't know if others have this problem, but here in MA the local advertising inserts from Verizon are horribly loud, much louder than the adjacent material. This isn't the usual "the commercials are always louder" complaint, the within-program commercials are always at a level consistent with the overall program volume. It's the inserts from Verizon (often for On-Demand movies or ads from trial lawyer James Sokolove) that are ridiculously loud. If I've set the volume to an adequate level for watching a channel with an overall low level like The Golf Channel, I'll be blasted across the room when the insert comes on. This is especially annoying during late-night viewing when you're trying not to wake up the rest of the household. I have to dig out the remote to mute the channel when this occurs.

Does anyone from Verizon monitor threads like these? (If they don't, they're certainly missing out on some very valuable customer feedback.) If you're out there, Mr. or Ms. Verizon Rep, don't be shy; speak up!

This has been an issue for as long as I have had Fios TV.

It was talked about last year in this thread, start at post 2583. Lots of people complained, and it did get somewhat better here in NoVA, although its still annoying.
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=10118239#post10118239

That number would cover virtually every HD channel currently available at the time.

If you were to make a list of what DirecTV has and FiOS doesn't:

Big Ten HD
CNN HD
TLC HD
Science Channel HD
Smithsonian HD
TBS HD
Versus HD / Golf Channel HD
Weather Channel HD
SHO Too HD
Starz Comedy HD
Starz Edge HD
Starz Kids and Family
Bravo
SCI FI
USA Network
CNBC
MGM
Fox Business Network
FX HD
Speed Network HD
Fuel HD
The Cartoon Network
NBA HD
NHL Network HD
Nickelodeon HD East
Spike HD
Country Music Television
VH1 HD
Biography HD
CSTV


Don't forget the History channel HD!

Have install scheduled in 2 weeks and am trying to configure my Verizon fios package (planning on 5/2 internet + phone). My choices:

1) FiosTV + 2x Cable cards + TivoHD + $200 BestBuy giftcard (if they even deliver on this!) + wait until 9/08-ish (in SoCal) for new HD channels + 2yr commit

2) D* + HDDVR + 1-2 yr commit + $10 off/month when bundled w/ Verizon + more HD channels now + but no $200 BB card

3) Stay with cable until Fios rolls out all the HD channels + probably forgo $200 gift card

What should I do?

BTW, hooking-up to an older 768 Pio plasma (1120HD).

Very simple solution. If you want Sunday Ticket or MLB Extra Innings, the clear choice is DirecTV. If these are not important to you, then by far the answer is FIOS. I had an install about a week ago with (2) TiVo HD's. I'm able to transfer programs between the TiVo's and looking forward to using TiVo To Go. As you probably now, D* supports the HR10-250 TiVo's, but the new HD channels are MPEG 4. You need the D* HR20/21 to get the new channels. The HR20 is okay, but certainly no TiVo.

I'm waiting on my $200 Best Buy card. I did get a recorded call from Verizon to look out for it this week. We'll see....

So far, I'm very pleased. I can definitely tell the difference between D* and VZW.

-Chris

Anyone know the status of the FIOS HD DVR? It was originally out of stock until 3/11. My Tivo S3 died and frankly I've had it with Tivo, so I need a DVR replacement.

Anyone know the status of the FIOS HD DVR? It was originally out of stock until 3/11. My Tivo S3 died and frankly I've had it with Tivo, so I need a DVR replacement.Some areas apparently now have the Verizon DVR back in stock, whereas in other areas, it will be April before more are available.

As you are under warranty, TiVo will send you a replacement. Out of warranty, it would cost you $150 to repair/replace.

TiVo has a 9.3 update coming in March that will eliminate most known bugs and significantly improve performance / responsiveness. It is the first software release for the S3 and TivoHD where 'speed' was the goal. It will be released together with the Tivo Desktop 2.6 software, which adds official support for automated transfer of all major high-definition file formats from PC to TiVo, with user-customizable folders and sub-folders.

Very simple solution. If you want Sunday Ticket or MLB Extra Innings, the clear choice is DirecTV. If these are not important to you, then by far the answer is FIOS. I had an install about a week ago with (2) TiVo HD's. I'm able to transfer programs between the TiVo's and looking forward to using TiVo To Go. As you probably now, D* supports the HR10-250 TiVo's, but the new HD channels are MPEG 4. You need the D* HR20/21 to get the new channels. The HR20 is okay, but certainly no TiVo.

I'm waiting on my $200 Best Buy card. I did get a recorded call from Verizon to look out for it this week. We'll see....

So far, I'm very pleased. I can definitely tell the difference between D* and VZW.

-Chris
Makes perfect sense. Sticking w/ Fios all around then. Part of my hesitation w/ re-signing w/ D* was the prospect of changing to the hr20. Was never a fan of the "season passes", and as an ex-10-250 owner, am looking forward to having a Tivo again. The $200 BB card and better PQ is just icing on the cake which will help me weather having fewer HD channels for a while. Thanks for making things clear for me.

Very simple solution. If you want Sunday Ticket or MLB Extra Innings...

NBA League Pass please, NBATV & NBATV HD too.
If I could get NBA League Pass I would've switched last fall, but I had to stick it out with TWC,
and pay the same price for League Pass that anyone else pays but I get no games in HD.

Some areas apparently now have the Verizon DVR back in stock, whereas in other areas, it will be April before more are available.



Really? Where do you find out what areas? A friend signed up and while he has been pleased with the SD, is REALLY waiting with bated breath for the HD DVR to be available. This is Mass...

Really? Where do you find out what areas? A friend signed up and while he has been pleased with the SD, is REALLY waiting with bated breath for the HD DVR to be available. This is Mass...

Check the FiOS website. They had the HD boxes listed again as something that can be ordered online after having taken them down for a while.

For the baseball viewers in the mid-atlantic region, MASN (Mid-Atlantic Sports Net) announced that it'll broadcast 80 Nationals and Orioles games in HD this season. Anyone heard if FiOS will open an HD slot for this??

Link from MASN (http://masnsports.com/2008/02/masn-adds-high-definition-mlb.html#more)

For the baseball viewers in the mid-atlantic region, MASN (Mid-Atlantic Sports Net) announced that it'll broadcast 80 Nationals and Orioles games in HD this season. Anyone heard if FiOS will open an HD slot for this??

Link from MASN (http://masnsports.com/2008/02/masn-adds-high-definition-mlb.html#more)
I wouldnt think it would be a problem for Verizon. Other markets have multiple HD sports nets, so its should not be a capacity problem.

However the way things have gone at MASN in the last 2 years I wouldn't be surprised if the screwed it up. With only 80 games it sounds like they only have 1 truck and will have to choose which team to show in HD when both are at home the same day.

Are you guys saying you can get a $200.00 gift card from best buy when you sign up with verizon fios?

Are you guys saying you can get a $200.00 gift card from best buy when you sign up with verizon fios?

Used to be your choice of a 19 inch LCD HD TV or a $200 gift card from BB if you signed up for the triple play. Don't know if that promo is still running or not now?

Used to be your choice of a 19 inch LCD HD TV or a $200 gift card from BB if you signed up for the triple play. Don't know if that promo is still running or not now?

I think it's a digital camera now. BTW - thanks for the heads up on the HD DVR.

Are you guys saying you can get a $200.00 gift card from best buy when you sign up with verizon fios?

I got this deal when I signed up last month for the FiOS triple play in Mass. I think the deal may have since expired. I recall that the original cutoff date for the promotion was extended a bit.
Right now I see Verizon offering a $100 gift card to Circuit City for online signups.
Give Verizon a call and see what they are offering new signups for your location. It can't hurt to ask if there are any promotions going on.

-JF

I don't know if others have this problem, but here in MA the local advertising inserts from Verizon are horribly loud, much louder than the adjacent material. This isn't the usual "the commercials are always louder" complaint, the within-program commercials are always at a level consistent with the overall program volume. It's the inserts from Verizon (often for On-Demand movies or ads from trial lawyer James Sokolove) that are ridiculously loud. If I've set the volume to an adequate level for watching a channel with an overall low level like The Golf Channel, I'll be blasted across the room when the insert comes on. This is especially annoying during late-night viewing when you're trying not to wake up the rest of the household. I have to dig out the remote to mute the channel when this occurs.

Does anyone from Verizon monitor threads like these? (If they don't, they're certainly missing out on some very valuable customer feedback.) If you're out there, Mr. or Ms. Verizon Rep, don't be shy; speak up!

I had this same issue and I called Verizon about it. The tech said the usual not all TV programs have the same levels blah blah blah. I then told him that I measured the difference on a SPL meter and that the difference was "lawsuit causing loud". He said "oh". About a day later I got a phone call from the Dallas area Service Manager to whom I repeated the same words. The next day I got a call that they were putting some firmware on my box to take care of the issue. Whatever they did actually worked!

So it would appear to me that they know it is an issue and that they have a fix for it but only if you threaten to sue them lol. Anyway I hope this helps any of you with this issue. Call service and be stubborn and tell them that your young kids hearing is being damaged, that your speakers got blown out, etc.. In other words don't let them gloss over it.

Laters,
Jeff

As you are under warranty, TiVo will send you a replacement. Out of warranty, it would cost you $150 to repair/replace.



I'm actually out of warranty since I've had the unit for about 16 months. They did offer the $150 repair/replace, but frankly I'm fed up with Tivos...nothing but bad experiences from my Tivo HD to my Tivo S3. Fortunately I dumped the Tivo HD prior to my return privileges expiring.

For the way I use a DVR, the FIOS DVR is a better fit and I retain VOD and PPV. I actually much prefer the new FIOS guide to the Tivo guide too.

No problems with my three Series 3 units and two TiVoHD boxes. With four on FIOS. I'm going to get another TiVoHD this week to use with Comcast since they offered me HBO, Showtime and Starz along with the digital channels for $30 a month. That way it can supplement my FIOS TV service until FIOS gets the HD channels that Comcast has. Plus I should break even since I can drop those premium channels from FIOS while I have Comcast.

Are you guys saying you can get a $200.00 gift card from best buy when you sign up with verizon fios?
I think I jumped in just before the extension expired. Install was required by 3/15/08. They advertised the 19" LCD, but 2 CSRs stated I will have an option between the TV and $200 BB card. We'll see in a few weeks if they stand by their word. Looks like it's either a camera or $200 CC gift card now, which isn't bad.

Hello.

Please excuse me for not reading all 199 pages of this thread. I attempted to dig up the answer by searching the forum, but couldn't locate a specific answer. So, I thought I'd throw a question in here to see if I could get some assistance.

In an effort to circumvent the lack of available HD boxes from Verizon for the FIOS service, I am planning on purchasing a couple used boxes from eBay. Will the DCT6416 III model work with Verizon's service? It seems that the QIP6416 model does, but I couldn't confirm the DCT model does.

Any and all info would be greatly appreciated.

Also, does anyone know if Verizon will allow me to hook up my own boxes? Obviously, the need not even know. Just wondering.

Thanks in advance.

My understanding is they will not let you use your own Moto boxes. You're only choice is to get a TiVo HD for about $250 and get two CableCARDs from FiOS.

Hello.

Please excuse me for not reading all 199 pages of this thread. I attempted to dig up the answer by searching the forum, but couldn't locate a specific answer. So, I thought I'd throw a question in here to see if I could get some assistance.

In an effort to circumvent the lack of available HD boxes from Verizon for the FIOS service, I am planning on purchasing a couple used boxes from eBay. Will the DCT6416 III model work with Verizon's service? It seems that the QIP6416 model does, but I couldn't confirm the DCT model does.

Any and all info would be greatly appreciated.

Also, does anyone know if Verizon will allow me to hook up my own boxes? Obviously, the need not even know. Just wondering.

Thanks in advance.

No, the DCT boxes will not work. In theory they could tune channels, but would not get guide data, or VOD.

Im not sure we have heard any first hand experience from anyone trying to use a QIP box from ebay. I wouldn't try it thats for sure, at best they will activate it and still charge you the monthly rental fee, at worst they tell you the box was stolen and will not allow it on the network. Just spend the $250 and get a tivoHD.

1. If you try to watch a show that's being recorded currently, it will start playing at the "LIVE" time, as opposed to the beginning.

Yeah, there's a fix, which is, when you start it, click DVR again, than select Play from Start.

However, it sucks when you've recorded a sporting event and you hear the score during that time when you click to play, and you are trying to play from start.

2. If you are recording something while watching something else on the DVR, when you are done with the pre-recorded show on the DVR, it flips you into the show you are recording.

Yes ,there is a fix for this, too, switch channels... however, it's not always obvious that you are on the channel of the recorded programs.

3. Major delay with the time display.

It will sit on play for 30 seconds to a minute without flipping to the time... or sit on the channel number, and then finally flip.

4. Stupid blinking ":"... it blinks when the box is on... it blinks when the box is "off".... why must it blink? (if you don't know what I'm talking about, look at the time on the box, you'll see.)

5. If you hit PAUSE, then >> or <<, it doesn't do slow FF or REW, it just sits there, not responding.


That's my list for now.

Wondering if any one DOESN'T have these issues... and if so, what version of the IMG are you using? They are very annoying bugs. And, yeah, they are bugs, I was in QA. I'm wondering how these POSSIBLY got past QA. Though, I get the definite feeling that QA was not performed. If a Verizon person is on this thread (which I know there's a few on here) now you are aware of these annoyances. Try it, you can be annoyed, too.

In an effort to circumvent the lack of available HD boxes from Verizon for the FIOS service, I am planning on purchasing a couple used boxes from eBay. Will the DCT6416 III model work with Verizon's service? It seems that the QIP6416 model does, but I couldn't confirm the DCT model does. With rare exception, the Motorola boxes on ebay are stolen. That's why they are so cheap. The cable providers pay over $450 for the average DCT6416 box and almost $500 for each QIP6416. In the United States, these boxes are sold exclusively to cable companies for rental; they are not sold to end users.

Verizon will not activate a DCT6416. If you have QIP6416, Verizon will do one of two things. They'll refuse to activate it, or they'll say "thank you for finding our box" and activate it -- but they will take ownership of their stolen property and charge you the full rental price. If tiy fail to return that box when you cancel service, Verizon will charge you $550.

Also, does anyone know if Verizon will allow me to hook up my own boxes? Obviously, the need not even know. Just wondering.Boxes will not work to provide channels >50 they are activated, so obviously they've got to know.

If you want to own your own box, the only real choice at this point is the TivoHD, which costs $250 with fees ($12.99/mo or $129/yr), or $698 with no fees.

DARN! i got a postcard with the 19'' tv offer but didnt see anything about a BB$200.00 giftcard.I didnt need the tv but i would of used the gift card to get an HD tivoto use with verizon. Anyway i need to figure out away to get the cheapest package with directv then see if i can afford to sdd fios i have a commitment with directv until september 2009. IF only verizon would of added the NBA LEAGUE PASS this year i would of signed up for fios! ,especially since directvs hd tivos wont get all the mpeg 4 hd channels. so im stuck with their crappy hd drs that always needs to be reset causing you to lose programs you set to record or lose programs you recorded.

bfdtv do you have to buy the hd tivo at tivo for$698.00 to get no fees? or can you pay that price at best buy or circuit city? everytime i go in there they only list the $299.00 price.

I think I jumped in just before the extension expired. Install was required by 3/15/08. They advertised the 19" LCD, but 2 CSRs stated I will have an option between the TV and $200 BB card. We'll see in a few weeks if they stand by their word. Looks like it's either a camera or $200 CC gift card now, which isn't bad.

I'm getting the $200 gift cards and I just ordered fios today, 26 feb 08. NY, Weschester area. Some dude was stopping by every single house to tell us verizon was available in our area now. I was told I get $100 now and another $100 in a year. Had to be part of a 2 year deal $95 dollars a month for the premium service (phone, internet, tv).

Oh, and they said I also get a 50$ gift card for target on top of the $200 BB one.

I found this earlier today...

"MLB Coming to FiOS, Mom and Apple Pie Rejoice!"

http://policyblog.verizon.com/PolicyBlog/Blogs/policyblog/EricRabe9/427/MLB-Coming-to-FiOS-Mom-and-Apple-Pie-Rejoice-.aspx

bfdtv do you have to buy the hd tivo at tivo for$698.00 to get no fees? or can you pay that price at best buy or circuit city? everytime i go in there they only list the $299.00 price.Right here (http://www3.tivo.com/tivo-promo/show.do?pg=/buytivo/hdgift.html).

If you need a number to enter, just send me a pm.

"MLB Coming to FiOS, Mom and Apple Pie Rejoice!"

http://policyblog.verizon.com/PolicyBlog/Blogs/policyblog/EricRabe9/427/MLB-Coming-to-FiOS-Mom-and-Apple-Pie-Rejoice-.aspx

That's definitely good news, although I don't expect it to happen in most existing markets until the analog channels are dropped.

I found this earlier today...

"MLB Coming to FiOS, Mom and Apple Pie Rejoice!"

http://policyblog.verizon.com/PolicyBlog/Blogs/policyblog/EricRabe9/427/MLB-Coming-to-FiOS-Mom-and-Apple-Pie-Rejoice-.aspx

That's great news. I can't recall when I had this package with D*, whether it was mostly in HD or not.

"MLB Coming to FiOS, Mom and Apple Pie Rejoice!"
http://policyblog.verizon.com/PolicyBlog/Blogs/policyblog/EricRabe9/427/MLB-Coming-to-FiOS-Mom-and-Apple-Pie-Rejoice-.aspx
Good find. The key phrase in the posting is "It won’t be everywhere, all at once unfortunately,". So the Extra Innings package will be tied to the markets that get the analog channels shut down so they can add the QAM channels to carry it and the additional HD channels. Which will presumably take some time after they turn off the 40 analog channels. This implies that some markets - Washington Metro, FL, CA, TX won't get Extra Innings until August or September, near the end of the season.

That's my list for now.

Wondering if any one DOESN'T have these issues... and if so, what version of the IMG are you using? They are very annoying bugs. And, yeah, they are bugs, I was in QA. I'm wondering how these POSSIBLY got past QA. Though, I get the definite feeling that QA was not performed. If a Verizon person is on this thread (which I know there's a few on here) now you are aware of these annoyances. Try it, you can be annoyed, too.

http://www.dslreports.com/forum/r19831384-IMG-Bugs-and-missing-features-Ver-20~days=10

http://www.dslreports.com/forum/r18922599-IMG-Bugs-and-missing-features-FAQ~days=10

Any news on when the Long Island and the rest of the NYC area will be able to get MSNBC?

Any news on when the Long Island and the rest of the NYC area will be able to get MSNBC?
I recall reading a post, if true, that claimed the CableVision exclusive deal ends sometime either in, or end of 2008 (don't recall), & that We may get "limited MSNBC", Debates ect, before the deal ends....
So if true, we should have MSNBC before/by the end of the year, with possibly a limited amount of MSNBC before then ...

Thanks, I hope so, because watching the live msnbc.com stream last night of the debate with fios internet was a pain and it was constantly buffering through my wifi equipped mac. I ended up watching the spanish version on Telemundo later, sometimes it helps to be bilingual.

I really hope we get TBS HD in time for Baseball season...Does MOJO do baseball anymore? I dont have CV anymore so waiting for FIOS to at least carry TBS :confused:

Good find. The key phrase in the posting is "It won’t be everywhere, all at once unfortunately,". So the Extra Innings package will be tied to the markets that get the analog channels shut down so they can add the QAM channels to carry it and the additional HD channels. Which will presumably take some time after they turn off the 40 analog channels. This implies that some markets - Washington Metro, FL, CA, TX won't get Extra Innings until August or September, near the end of the season.

Do some areas have that many analog channels? I count only 24 on the guide in the Howard Co. / Anne Arundel MD market... and we get 2 sets of locals (DC and Baltimore.)
Even with 40 or all 49 analog channels, that's a lot fewer than Comcast carries (about 80 I think) so FiOS should have plenty of room for digitals.

Just catching up on my readings...

The 24 or so "local" analog channels will be going away in the DC area in the nearer future.

As for eBay boxes, don't waste your time. (At least in the DC area) there are few Clear-QAM channels, which means your box needs to be authorized. It's not so much that Verizon won't auth your box if you call, but the do have special soft (firm?) ware on the boxes to work with their system.

As much as it pains me to rent, if it ever fails, it's not my problem.

Just my $0.02..

Do some areas have that many analog channels? I count only 24 on the guide in the Howard Co. / Anne Arundel MD market... and we get 2 sets of locals (DC and Baltimore.)
Even with 40 or all 49 analog channels, that's a lot fewer than Comcast carries (about 80 I think) so FiOS should have plenty of room for digitals.
You likely have some analog channels which are test patterns only. Verizon reportedly put in the hardware to provide 40 analog channels, but is not using them at most locations. The key issue is that Verizon only put in equipment at the COs and VHOs to support 103 channels out of the 135 channels that the STB/DVRs can tune to. See posts by bfdtv that explain this from some months back at: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=11798212#post11798212 and http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=11922664#post11922664.

Here in Sterling, VA, the last time I looked (a few weeks back), we had 56 QAM channels in use. Once Verizon has 103 QAM channels (with none used for VOD), Verizon will be way ahead of Comcast on bandwidth for HD channels. Expand that to 135 QAM channels, Verizon will have enough room for 150+ HD channels and without the rate shaping & compression that Comcast is now using to squeeze 3 HD channels into 1 QAM channel.

But it will be a long wait for some of us for Verizon to shut down the analogs and start to add the full set of new HD channels.

If those posted schedules are correct, Verizon will be analog free in under 7 months. I guess there could be delays, but a delay at one VHO presumably would have no effect on the upgrade at a separate VHO.

Is 7 months a long wait? I guess it depends on your perspective. Comcast isn't going to be in that same position nationwide for probably a decade.

Hello All,

I am thinking about grabbing the Fios bundle if available in my area.

The only problem is the search page keeps erroring out on me.

Anyone in the Baltimore-White Marsh area of Maryland?

Really interested in getting the Fios service, think it's wayyyy over Comcast's head.

BTW, comcast customer service is horrible.

thanks in advance

This is great news. I just hope they release info about the NY area BEFORE my DirecTV renews my MLB Package.

I wonder if they'll rival DirecTV in terms of HD games?

Man I wish FIOS would hurry up and come to Connecticut.

Man I wish FIOS would hurry up and come to Connecticut.

Is Verizon even in Connecticut? (Other than Wireless)
Thought that was all SNET territory.

I had this same issue and I called Verizon about it. The tech said the usual not all TV programs have the same levels blah blah blah. I then told him that I measured the difference on a SPL meter and that the difference was "lawsuit causing loud". He said "oh". About a day later I got a phone call from the Dallas area Service Manager to whom I repeated the same words. The next day I got a call that they were putting some firmware on my box to take care of the issue. Whatever they did actually worked!

So it would appear to me that they know it is an issue and that they have a fix for it but only if you threaten to sue them lol. Anyway I hope this helps any of you with this issue. Call service and be stubborn and tell them that your young kids hearing is being damaged, that your speakers got blown out, etc.. In other words don't let them gloss over it.

Laters,
Jeff

On monday I will look into this issue a bit. I have noticed that when we check out the TV test carts in the central offices, the audio is all over the map. And it does appear to be much more than the usual commercials are supposed to be louder answer.

I have even noticed big differences between channels from time to time.

The audio portion of our testing when we turn up a VSO is pretty limited. I should be seeing some knowledgable people this week when we do an analog to all digital conversion in one of the offices.

I will let you know if I find any answers.

Is Verizon even in Connecticut? (Other than Wireless)
Thought that was all SNET territory.

Greenwich, CT is part of Verizon but I think the rest of the state is SNET. I could be wrong though

There appear to be two ways to upgrade:
1) Via the built-in upgrade mechanisms (which most of us have turned off)
2) Via some magic Verizon push

I think #2 also allows them to push new firmware. And it doesn't come from the Actiontek upgrade site, it comes from somewhere in Verizon (I think).

For what it's worth, I was getting to almost daily forced upgrades. I blocked port #### last evening, and haven't had a forced upgrade yet. I'll post again in a couple days if this continues to work.

Edit: edited out the port number... PM me if you want it, assuming it's right (a few folks have indicated it is).

Okay, this doesn't appear to be working. I've been force upgraded a couple of times since I blocked this port. I've since blocked a couple other ports, and changed the address where it checks for an upgrade, but it's still forcing upgrades.

How the heck do I stop it from doing this?!? And why are they forcing a broken firmware on me?!?! This is really bad on their part, and I'm getting fed up. I'm about ready to toss their router and put in my own.

So just to be clear.
Verizon isn't upgrading their network this year, they are just eliminating the analog channels to make more room for HD?

Sucks to live in Tampa, maybe I'll save myself $360 and cancel until they roll out in August.

Some sites require more steps for the upgrade, being they are an older configuration. The analog to digital conversion is just another step in the upgrade process, the last step

Some sites require more steps for the upgrade, being they are an older configuration. The analog to digital conversion is just another step in the upgrade process, the last step

Isn't adding additional QAMs the last step?

I think the QAM upgrade and the analog removal are concurrent steps.

Okay, this doesn't appear to be working. I've been force upgraded a couple of times since I blocked this port. I've since blocked a couple other ports, and changed the address where it checks for an upgrade, but it's still forcing upgrades.

Inbound port blocking won't be effective if the set-top box initiates the transfer like, say, anti-virus programs do when they check for updates. Suppose for the sake of illustration it uses a a simple web ("HTTP") request. That is sent to the server's port 80, and the server sends back replies from a randomly-chosen port. The replies have to traverse the firewall or else you wouldn't be able to use the connection for any outbound services (web browsing, etc.). So since the replies are marked as responses to a request initiated by a machine behind the firewall, the reply packets are passed through.

If you can determine the IP addresses of the remote sites being contacted, you could block outbound connections to those sites.

I'm not saying that the STBs originate the request for updates, just that if they do, inbound port blocking won't stop them.

Inbound port blocking won't be effective if the set-top box initiates the transfer like, say, anti-virus programs do when they check for updates. Suppose for the sake of illustration it uses a a simple web ("HTTP") request. That is sent to the server's port 80, and the server sends back replies from a randomly-chosen port. The replies have to traverse the firewall or else you wouldn't be able to use the connection for any outbound services (web browsing, etc.). So since the replies are marked as responses to a request initiated by a machine behind the firewall, the reply packets are passed through.

If you can determine the IP addresses of the remote sites being contacted, you could block outbound connections to those sites.

I'm not saying that the STBs originate the request for updates, just that if they do, inbound port blocking won't stop them.

This has nothing to do with STB's. But thanks.

Anyone have any advice on what to block to prevent the router from auto-upgrading and screwing up static DHCP?

There are a number of threads on that topic over on DSL Reports: http://www.dslreports.com/forum/vzfiber

There are a number of threads on that topic over on DSL Reports: http://www.dslreports.com/forum/vzfiber

Thanks. Found one that pointed to updating the config file. Let's see if that one works, I'll post back in a couple weeks if I'm still stable.

Shame on Verizon for continuing to push out a buggy router firmware!

Hello everyone forgive me if this a repeat post but I thought this bug was minimized with the current IMG or at least that is the impression I had due to the lack of recent posts mentioning it.
Just the other day I checked the scheduled series under the DVR tab and noticed only 2 shows showing as scheduled. There should have been 8-10 over the upcoming week. Deleting and re establishing the series record entries put everything back on track.
Is this going to still be a semi monthly experience with the new IMG. I am really starting to miss the old IPG. What good is it if it can't walk and chew gum at the same time.:confused:

For the first time since I have had this IMG (I never had the old one as this was installed when I got FIOS TV last June) I too have begun to have programs in the "series manager" disappear. Not very reliable if I am away for a few days!!

Just the other day I checked the scheduled series under the DVR tab and noticed only 2 shows showing as scheduled. There should have been 8-10 over the upcoming week. Deleting and re establishing the series record entries put everything back on track.

Glad to see this ... sort of ... reassuring I'm not completely crazy. :(

In my case, I don't have to actually delete the series: If I highlight the program in the Guide that ought to be marked for recording but isn't, and then try to set a series recording, I get an error message saying that I already have a series by that name. Then, when I 'OK' out of the error message, the program is now marked as to-be-recorded (and is actually recorded). Almost like "oh yeah, now I remember you wanted that whole series recorded, here ya go, sorry 'bout that" ... except for the "sorry" part. :)

FWIW, this is southeastern PA area, I've noticed this problem for about 2 weeks, though it may have first happened earlier but I didn't notice because there wasn't much new to record.

I have a different program guide complaint that I'll just throw out here. When shows are aired multiple times, the screen splits in a way that obscures the program title. Since this is rather hard to explain, let me give you an example. Go to Search, type "college" into the box, then select the College Basketball folder. Unless a game will be shown only once, the left column consists of a list of games with short, typically unreadable titles, and the right column shows the schedules. You have to select each game individually to see who's playing. Much better would be a right column with the program titles and a control to open the schedule.

I noticed that the Weather Channel 49 is announcing Weather Channel in HD - ask our cable provider!!! I thought that was were we see messages on new services!

Glad to see this ... sort of ... reassuring I'm not completely crazy. :(

In my case, I don't have to actually delete the series: If I highlight the program in the Guide that ought to be marked for recording but isn't, and then try to set a series recording, I get an error message saying that I already have a series by that name. Then, when I 'OK' out of the error message, the program is now marked as to-be-recorded (and is actually recorded). Almost like "oh yeah, now I remember you wanted that whole series recorded, here ya go, sorry 'bout that" ... except for the "sorry" part. :)

FWIW, this is southeastern PA area, I've noticed this problem for about 2 weeks, though it may have first happened earlier but I didn't notice because there wasn't much new to record.


Interesting if I do what you do I get an extra entry in my series list at the bottom. For example if I have Dexter in my series list 5th from the bottom but in the scheduled recordings it is not listed to record and go to the guide and tell it to record dexter as a series it adds another entry at the bottom of the series manager list.
If this keeps up I am going to have a hundred entries for law and order. Naturally I do house keeping and delete the old ones.

For what it is worth my DVR has release 1.0.4 and build 05.68 North Jersey.

Did call verizon on 3/2 to log a complaint sounded like I got the weekend staff. Will call again today because for a while the IMG was going just fine. It seems just over the past couple of day's it has been acting flakey with series records.
So far it has been ok with individual requests.

My series haven't recorded properly for weeks now. Big Brother is hardly ever scheduled correctly. Medium has new episodes now, and is giving me trouble. Big Brother After Dark sometimes cuts short, or only gives me a few minutes at the end of the show (no higher priority conflicts at that hour). What a piece of junk.

My series haven't recorded properly for weeks now. Big Brother is hardly ever scheduled correctly. Medium has new episodes now, and is giving me trouble. Big Brother After Dark sometimes cuts short, or only gives me a few minutes at the end of the show (no higher priority conflicts at that hour). What a piece of junk.

Maybe the DVR is using its built-in "good taste" filter and that's why it's not recording Big Brother. :D

I've not had a problem with it missing anything. I've probably got 20 series set to record and it's been getting them all (including Medium). I'm in Oregon, so maybe the problem is regional?

Interesting if I do what you do I get an extra entry in my series list at the bottom. For example if I have Dexter in my series list 5th from the bottom but in the scheduled recordings it is not listed to record and go to the guide and tell it to record dexter as a series it adds another entry at the bottom of the series manager list.
If this keeps up I am going to have a hundred entries for law and order. Naturally I do house keeping and delete the old ones.

For what it is worth my DVR has release 1.0.4 and build 05.68 North Jersey.

So far it has been ok with individual requests.Mine is working just like yours. Just adds another series entry.

I've been mainly having trouble getting it to record the Battlestar Galactica series on UHD. It had been doing fine and then, like you, a couple of weeks ago it quit recording it. I've tried deleting the series and re-adding it. Doesn't help. First the next show is there and then when I look later it's gone from the View Schedule list, never to reappear. I've now resorted to manually setting up the recording for this show.

Mine is working just like yours. Just adds another series entry.

I've been mainly having trouble getting it to record the Battlestar Galactica series on UHD. It had been doing fine and then, like you, a couple of weeks ago it quit recording it. I've tried deleting the series and re-adding it. Doesn't help. First the next show is there and then when I look later it's gone from the View Schedule list, never to reappear. I've now resorted to manually setting up the recording for this show.


To make matters even more confusing I had a show that was scheduled to record every sunday evening. When i checked the series schedule this past saturday yesturday's show was not set to record but next weeks was ok. So I manually chose to record sundays episode. Then when I checked last night the episode recorded correctly but next weeks episode was now not showing as scheduled to record.
The system is totally fubar. I just wonder if it is due to the guide data provider, the box itself (doubtful because mine was working for quite some time) or a firmware update.

The weekend service rep did make mention that the reason he thinks there is a shortage of the HD DVR boxes is they are working on getting the newer boxes ready for release as the current HD DVR boxes are troublesome. Take this with a grain of salt as it came from a VZ csr.

To make matters even more confusing I had a show that was scheduled to record every sunday evening. When i checked the series schedule this past saturday yesturday's show was not set to record but next weeks was ok. So I manually chose to record sundays episode. Then when I checked last night the episode recorded correctly but next weeks episode was now not showing as scheduled to record.
The system is totally fubar. I just wonder if it is due to the guide data provider, the box itself (doubtful because mine was working for quite some time) or a firmware update.This is exactly how recording the series "Battlestar Galactica" worked for me. I gave up and am now scheduling it manually.

I don't think much of this gets called in to VZ, so who knows if they're working on it. Whenever I report something, they've never heard of it before and it's always just me. Oops, I nearly worked up to a rant.

My Mythbusters scheduled recording for today just disappeared. :mad::mad: Gone. Zip. No more. It was on the "View Schedule" menu last night, so thought all was OK. Guess not. I'm not happy.

The reason I put it there was because it missed Wednesday night's recording. Seems to be OK when I set the series option to "First run and repeat". Was "First Run" only.

I was watching family guy and I looked up upcoming programs, the next time aired is a week from today 3/10/08 even though it is being shown millions of times before that. Stupid guide is so screwed up. :mad:

This is exactly how recording the series "Battlestar Galactica" worked for me. I gave up and am now scheduling it manually.

I don't think much of this gets called in to VZ, so who knows if they're working on it. Whenever I report something, they've never heard of it before and it's always just me. Oops, I nearly worked up to a rant.

It may not be Verizon. Last year I had Comcast and the BG episodes never recorded as a series. I had to do them all manually.

This is exactly how recording the series "Battlestar Galactica" worked for me. I gave up and am now scheduling it manually.

I don't think much of this gets called in to VZ, so who knows if they're working on it. Whenever I report something, they've never heard of it before and it's always just me. Oops, I nearly worked up to a rant.

I think something is wrong with Universal HD. They've dropped Battlestar Galactica from the schedule at the UHD web site.

I think something is wrong with Universal HD. They've dropped Battlestar Galactica from the schedule at the UHD web site.

Its been missing for quite sometime, but they still have the weekly replay's. My DVR snags them

It may not be Verizon. Last year I had Comcast and the BG episodes never recorded as a series. I had to do them all manually.Yeah, but it recorded correctly until around 2 weeks ago. That's when it quit.

I have comcast right now and I am patiently waiting for Fios in my neighborhood they just put the Fiber in and on Monday that put this huge box at the entrance of our street. My scheduled recordings were all erased on my comcst DVR a couple of weeks ago too. I had to set them up again. Thought it was just me.

Any word on which HD channels FiOS will start rolling out in April?

I have comcast right now and I am patiently waiting for Fios in my neighborhood they just put the Fiber in and on Monday that put this huge box at the entrance of our street. My scheduled recordings were all erased on my comcst DVR a couple of weeks ago too. I had to set them up again. Thought it was just me.

I live in Beaverton, Oregon and we just had the rollout in December '07. The fiber was laid nearly two years prior. What to watch for is the work Verizon does with your local franchise authority to get approval to carry video service in your area. This work with the franchise authority and subsequent approval will determine when you get your FiOS TV. And FYI...it's been worth the switch for me and I'm enjoying every second of it.

Wondering the same things about the upcoming channel roll-out in April. I just saw a message on the STB regarding this a couple of days ago. I switched recently from Comcast and I must say I really miss golf HD on Thurs/Fri.