I have periodic freeze ups. (3412, Comcast Central Jersey, HDMI out to DVI in). I have to unplug the unit to reset to get it to unfreeze. Pain, plus I lose guide data each reset. Par for the course? Defective unit? Or, could this be caused by low signal strength?

Since I bought my Sony Bravia last year, and as I collect more devices that support HDMI (up-converting DVD player, PS3, etc.) and component connections (other game consoles), it is quickly becoming apparent that sooner or later I'm going to have to purchase a switchbox of some kind, since my display only has one HDMI and one component input (sad, I know).

Short of looking for another display that has a ridiculous array of component and HDMI inputs on the back, what do you guys recommend? I guess my question is, should I get an HDMI switchbox or a component switchbox? Does the HDMI interface offer any real advantages over component cables (other than simplicity and neatness)?

Also, interrupting a nice direct connection with my display with any kind of splitting device worries me, are these things any good? Recommendations?

Any assistance is much appreciated.

Thanks,
ScottMy AV Receiver can only switch between 2 Hi-Def component inputs and my Mitsubishi TV only has one Hi-Def component input, so when I added a D-VHS recorder into the mix I had to do something. I found the IMPACT ACOUSTICS™ 3-PLAY™ High Performance Component Video/Digital Audio Selector (http://www.impactacoustics.com/product.asp?cat%5Fid=1002&sku=40324) (with IR remote) for only $50 shipped and decided that was a low enough price to give it a shot. Although I only use it to switch between my D-VHS recorder and my OTA HD box on rare occasions, I've been very satisfied with how well it works. One of the TOSlink jacks was a little less secure than I would've liked, but I really don't have any problem with it as long as I'm not moving it around a lot. It's worth a shot if you want to use the money saved for something else fun. :)

I tried my JVC 30K with both a 3416, 3412 and 6412 Phase III with no luck. If I recall correctly, the JVC was reporting encryption errors or something like that.

My solution was to pickup a couple of new Mitsubishi DVHS recorders for about $200 for recording (works well) and play back on either the JVC or Mits DVHS. I occassionally have problems with the firewire link on my 3416 box with the Mits but am able to fix it by unplugging the power cord on the 3416.I'm using the a JVC 40K with a 3416 and have more trouble than I did with the 3412 and 6412 before it. The recording works great but every once in a while the 3416 drops the firewire output and the 40K acts like it's disconnected. Cold booting the 3416 gets it back on track, but it's a hassle to get behind the unit all the time to unplug it. Since I frequently have to power cycle it after capturing to my notebook (FF & REW functions "break"), I'm planning to put in some kind of switch to simplify the task and make it less risky.

I have periodic freeze ups. (3412, Comcast Central Jersey, HDMI out to DVI in). I have to unplug the unit to reset to get it to unfreeze. Pain, plus I lose guide data each reset. Par for the course? Defective unit? Or, could this be caused by low signal strength?


What freezes? The picture shown on the tv or do you mean when you press buttons on the remote nothing happens (maybe it executes all the commands about a minutes later?) If it's the picture is it on all channels or just certain ones? If all channels probably bad box, if just some could be signal or box. If it's the commands not being executed that would be one of the bugs with these boxes, just power reset as you're doing & it should be fine for a while again. As for the guide data reset this unfortunately is normal even if it loses power for 2 seconds it will be cleared.

I have the 3412 model and would like to add an external USB 2.0 drives to my comcast box. This drive also has a firewire port. Can this be used now? What other info do you need to determine if an external drive can be connected so that I can get more than 15 hours HD recording? --Greg--

You can't add an external drive. You may be able to swap the 3412 for a 3416, which has 1/3 more disk space.

I am not sure if I have been reading this wrong, but I was under the assumption that all DVR boxes in a certain area (same headend) would have the same firmware. However, my 3412 is 12.22 and my father just picked-up a 3416 over the holidays that says 12.31.

We only live a mile apart and definately have the same Comcast headend. Is this because one is a 3412 and the other 3416 or can two different firmware editions exist on the same headend?

If I were to reset my box, would it pick-up the later firmware???

What's taking so long for the TIVO upgrade?

Oh yeah, it's Comcast...I'll expect it sometime in 2011.

What's taking so long for the TIVO upgrade?

Oh yeah, it's Comcast...I'll expect it sometime in 2011.

Well, it would seem more likely that it's TiVo, rather than Comcast, since TiVo is making it.

That worked like a charm - however, it seemed to create a new problem (or at least is an impressive coincidence): occasionally if I change channels from say, ESPNHD or one of the lower HD movie channels (like HBO at 212 or whatever it is) to one of the higher movie channels (Showtime at 347, for example) I will get audio and no picture. My TV (Westy 47") says "No Signal", but my Yamaha is still putting out sound. And if it's an HD movie channel, still putting it out at 5.1.

Very weird. Comcast tech support has no idea (not that they ever do). They send a signal to my box, and nothing happens. If I just ignore it, it usually solves itself within a few hours.

Help save a lost soul!

Also, have you heard if we (the Philly area) are going to be getting the F/Q update anytime soon, 16.20 I believe, to enable HDMI switching?
By resetting your box you shut off the HDMI output (assuming you have the DCT3412) You must go back into those settings and turn ON the HDMI out put. I'll assume you're not having the HDMI go through your receiver which is why you're still getting sound. Once you switch ON HDMI, there's another screen of settings...one of which has had me baffled and I'll be posting my question now...

Ok, I've searched high and low. I have 2 DCT3412's. One is HDMI'd directly into my 32" Vizio - the other is HDMI'd into my Denon Receiver AVR-987 (2 HDMI inputs, Upscales to 1080i/p) and from there on HDMI to my Toshiba 62HM196 TV. The manuals w/both boxes are for the 6XXX series so there's no CLEAR information on using the HDMI settings. Especially the sound output. Is L-PCM Lossless PCM? Is that better to use than Digital? Or simply use the Pass Through? I spent a few hours googling reading etc but NO information found. ANY tech-sound-geeks out there tool around with this and have the definitive answer I know I'd LOVE to know.

Ok, I've searched high and low. I have 2 DCT3412's. One is HDMI'd directly into my 32" Vizio - the other is HDMI'd into my Denon Receiver AVR-987 (2 HDMI inputs, Upscales to 1080i/p) and from there on HDMI to my Toshiba 62HM196 TV. The manuals w/both boxes are for the 6XXX series so there's no CLEAR information on using the HDMI settings. Especially the sound output. Is L-PCM Lossless PCM? Is that better to use than Digital? Or simply use the Pass Through? I spent a few hours googling reading etc but NO information found. ANY tech-sound-geeks out there tool around with this and have the definitive answer I know I'd LOVE to know.
Read the Additional HDMI Settings (http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR/Setup#Additional_HDMI_Settings) section of the Wikibook.

To answer your questions re: sound, L-PCM is "Linear PCM", which is normal stereo audio. It is lossless, but on all digital channels, it will have been (down)converted from the Dolby Digital audio, so it's not going to have superior quality, and may even have inferior sound quality depending on the quality of the circuitry in the STB. So, if possible you want the DD audio.

The best setting is Auto, because I assume it will convert DD to PCM if it detects the device on the other end cannot decode DD, but would otherwise send DD. If your TV or receiver does decode DD, then PASS THROUGH should always pass on DD, since all channels on the 3412 are digital, and all digital channels have DD.

You could use PASS THROUGH if you believe Auto is converting the audio to PCM. You shouldn't use the L-PCM setting unless your equipment can't decode DD. Especially if you want surround sound, you can't get it with L-PCM, as it's only 2 channels (stereo, left and right).

Read the Additional HDMI Settings (http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR/Setup#Additional_HDMI_Settings) section of the Wikibook.

To answer your questions re: sound, L-PCM is "Linear PCM", which is normal stereo audio. It is lossless, but on all digital channels, it will have been (down)converted from the Dolby Digital audio, so it's not going to have superior quality, and may even have inferior sound quality depending on the quality of the circuitry in the STB. So, if possible you want the DD audio.

The best setting is Auto, because I assume it will convert DD to PCM if it detects the device on the other end cannot decode DD, but would otherwise send DD. If your TV or receiver does decode DD, then PASS THROUGH should always pass on DD, since all channels on the 3412 are digital, and all digital channels have DD.

You could use PASS THROUGH if you believe Auto is converting the audio to PCM. You shouldn't use the L-PCM setting unless your equipment can't decode DD. Especially if you want surround sound, you can't get it with L-PCM, as it's only 2 channels (stereo, left and right).

Here's the irony. My Receiver supports PCM. I've watched an HD station in Dolby Surround sound on each setting. On each setting the sound comes through as 5.1 meaning even on L-PCM, the vocals come through my center channel and the rest of the sounds follow suit as Dolby. That's why I posed my question. That's when I select L-PCM on the box, and PCM as the input (or auto) on my reciever. I've read that PCM (lossless) provides the best audio there is (read up on Blu-Ray, HDDVD audio outputs and that's where it was mentioned).
If the audio came out only in stereo on the L-PCM, I'd agree that it's just 'stereo' but that's not what occurs.

By resetting your box you shut off the HDMI output (assuming you have the DCT3412) You must go back into those settings and turn ON the HDMI out put. I'll assume you're not having the HDMI go through your receiver which is why you're still getting sound. Once you switch ON HDMI, there's another screen of settings...one of which has had me baffled and I'll be posting my question now...

As helpful as I wish that was - I'm using the 3416, and I connect my STB to my receiver via component and optical, since my firmware is still 12.22 and does not support HDMI switching. So, uh, yeah. Nothing is ever easy for me, lol.

Here's the irony. My Receiver supports PCM. I've watched an HD station in Dolby Surround sound on each setting. On each setting the sound comes through as 5.1 meaning even on L-PCM, the vocals come through my center channel and the rest of the sounds follow suit as Dolby. That's why I posed my question. That's when I select L-PCM on the box, and PCM as the input (or auto) on my reciever. I've read that PCM (lossless) provides the best audio there is (read up on Blu-Ray, HDDVD audio outputs and that's where it was mentioned).
If the audio came out only in stereo on the L-PCM, I'd agree that it's just 'stereo' but that's not what occurs.
Any receiver or TV with a digital audio input (HDMI, coax, optical) supports PCM. In my experience, just about any device with an HDMI input will also support DD.

The short: The audio coming in over the cable system is Dolby Digital. PCM does provide better quality, but without surround sound, and only if you get it from the source in PCM format. Once it's been encoded and delivered to you in Dolby Digital, converting it back to PCM can't add any quality, it will only be as good as the Dolby Digital.

The long:

There are a few points about Dolby technologies to clarify, and I don't know how much you know about it, so I'm just going to lay it all out. The differences in their naming conventions are subtle, but they make a difference as to which technology you're actually using.

Content encoded in digital format is called "Dolby Digital 2.0" (for 2-channel, "normal" stereo) or "Dolby Digital 5.1" (for 5 channels + 1 "Low Frequency Effects" channel for your subwoofer). "Dolby Digital" audio is played back by a "Dolby Digital decoder". If "Dolby Digital" isn't supported, every "Dolby Digital decoder" is contractually obligated to provide a "Dolby Surround-compatible downmix", which takes the "Dolby Digital" audio and translates the 5.1 channels into 2-channel stereo in PCM format. The PCM audio is then "Dolby Surround-compatible".

"Dolby Surround" uses a process to encode sounds for 4 audio channels (Left, Center, Right, and Mono Surround) into only 2 stereo channels (Left and Right). Any device that plays stereo audio can play back the audio in stereo, but when played back with a "Dolby Pro Logic decoder", the 4 audio channels are reproduced.

When any stereo audio or "Dolby Surround" encoded audio is played back with a "Dolby Pro Logic II decoder", 5.1 channels are artificially created, either from the "Dolby Surround" encoding, if present in the audio, or from a complicated formula Dolby Labs came up with for separating the channels. The different "Dolby Pro Logic II" profiles, "Music" and "Movie", separate the channels in different ways. There is also a "Dolby Pro Logic IIx decoder", which artificially creates 6.1 or 7.1 audio channels.

The reason all this is important, is because you said you "watched an HD station in Dolby Surround sound on each setting". The question is, when you look at your receiver, are you seeing the lights on the display indicating the audio is "Dolby Digital" or "Dolby Pro Logic" (including II or IIx)?

I said to use Dolby Digital because the audio that comes over the cable line into your box is always Dolby Digital. It may be "Dolby Digital 5.1", "Dolby Digital 2.0", or "Dolby Digital 2.0 Surround" (meaning it is "Dolby Digital 2.0", but the source audio was encoded in "Dolby Surround" format). Either way, the audio is always Dolby Digital.

To convert the audio to PCM means that you are using the "Dolby Digital decoder" to perform a "Dolby Surround-compatible downmix" on the incoming audio, and to output the 2-channel audio in PCM format. After that, your receiver may use a "Dolby Pro Logic decoder" (or II or IIx) to reconstruct the surround sound.

So, you lose the surround sound in its original format, and perform a conversion process on the audio during the downmix that you don't need to do. Your receiver could simply decode the incoming Dolby Digital signal and send the audio directly to the speakers, instead of first going through a downmix process.

PCM does provide the best sound quality, but you have to get it that way from the source. Our source, from the cable company, is in Dolby Digital format. Once the audio is encoded into Dolby Digital, converting it back to PCM doesn't give you any better quality than the Dolby Digital itself.

PCM is "lossless", meaning it is identical to the original audio. Dolby Digital is "lossy", meaning it keeps only a portion of the audio information that it thinks humans will hear, and throws out the rest of the audio information. This makes the audio data much smaller in size, and more efficient for transfer over the cable system. The quality of different lossy audio formats (Dolby Digital, MP3, AAC/MP4, WMA) is determined by the quality of the encoder when the audio is compressed, the decoder when the audio is decompressed, and the "psychoacoustic model" used by the encoder when choosing what it thinks is the most important audio information to keep. Once the unneeded information is thrown away, it cannot be reconstructed, so converting Dolby Digital to PCM doesn't do anything but create an opportunity to degrade the audio.

You can get lossless audio in surround sound, but it comes in other formats that aren't currently supported by cable systems or the HDTV standards, like "MLP Lossless" (used on DVD-Audio discs) or "Dolby TrueHD" (used on HD DVD and Blu-ray).

Read more, if you like, at the Dolby website (http://www.dolby.com/consumer/technology/surround.html).

What's taking so long for the TIVO upgrade?
Oh yeah, it's Comcast...I'll expect it sometime in 2011.

Also need to keep in mind that loading good software on crap hardware is a bit like putting lipstick on a pig.

Got a quick question. Does anyone have the 3412 hooked up to a receiver that has HDMI switching built-in, that works? I am curious because I am getting some HDMI repeater error and want to know if it's the crappy box or my new receiver.

Got a quick question. Does anyone have the 3412 hooked up to a receiver that has HDMI switching built-in, that works? I am curious because I am getting some HDMI repeater error and want to know if it's the crappy box or my new receiver.

I have a 3416 output to a Yamaha 2700 via HDMI and have a DVD player and Replay TV connected to the 2700. Output of the 2700 to the HD TV is via HDMI. All working fine. Not sure what you mean by the DVR being HDMI switchable.

All of a sudden my DVR playback on my 3416 is not working. Once I press play it goes blank. When I fast forward it shows the arrows, but doesn't move and remains blank. Even when I exit it remains blank until I change the channel. Anyone have a clue? Figured I could probably get an answer quicker here than customer service.

All of a sudden my DVR playback on my 3416 is not working. Once I press play it goes blank. When I fast forward it shows the arrows, but doesn't move and remains blank. Even when I exit it remains blank until I change the channel. Anyone have a clue? Figured I could probably get an answer quicker here than customer service.
Have you tried:

1) Unplug the box. Wait 30 seconds. Plug the box back in. It will take up to 48 hours to reload all of the guide data. Is the DVR functionality fixed? If not, try Step 2.

2) Try a DVR Authorization and Factory Full Reset (http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR/Resets#DVR_Authorization_and_Factory_Full_Reset). You will still have all of the recorded programs from the DVR. Once everything is downloaded and reinstalled, try the DVR.

Got a quick question. Does anyone have the 3412 hooked up to a receiver that has HDMI switching built-in, that works? I am curious because I am getting some HDMI repeater error and want to know if it's the crappy box or my new receiver.I seem to recall reading messages, probably here on AVS Forum, indicating that there was a known bug in a recent update of the firmware, which was causing this problem. (I think this affects all cable companies using that specific firmware for the Motorola DVR -- not just Comcast.) Presumably, they're working on a fix, and will roll it out in the future -- again, my memory is sketchy -- maybe by Spring? Not sure.

Use component video instead in the meantime.

A warning to all using these boxes and HDMI!!

I have talked to 2 home theatre install professionals and both of them recommend to use component and NOT HDMI.
They have both run into many issues with these boxes and HDMI.
Worse case, it could permanently ruin the HDMI input on your TV.
They both have seen this happen more than once.

I don't know the technical details of why they just said these boxes are not the best electronics and the signal coming out of the HDMI of the box is not up to par.
Grain of salt, just thought I would let you all know what I found out.

[QUOTE=DAD_23]I have talked to 2 home theatre install professionals and both of them recommend to use component and NOT HDMI.
...
Worse case, it could permanently ruin the HDMI input on your TV.
...[QUOTE]

Anyone can call themselves a install professional and from your post you seem to have run into two.

people can have on some occasions with some receivers have trouble with hdmi hdcp handshaking through receivers, but if your "professionals" were telling you tvs are bing ruined perhaps they are blaming screwing up on the STB's.

I seem to recall reading messages, probably here on AVS Forum, indicating that there was a known bug in a recent update of the firmware, which was causing this problem. (I think this affects all cable companies using that specific firmware for the Motorola DVR -- not just Comcast.) Presumably, they're working on a fix, and will roll it out in the future -- again, my memory is sketchy -- maybe by Spring? Not sure.

Use component video instead in the meantime.
Actually, specific to HDMI/HDCP repeaters, it's the other way around. If you have F/W 12.35 (http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR/Firmware_and_Software#Version_12.35) or later, there has been much greater success using HDMI thru A/V receivers. Of course, there are also other HDCP issues (http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR/Bugs#When_turning_the_box_on.2C_it_may_not_display_a_picture .2C_the_picture_may_be_solid_green.2C_a_blue_box_may_appear_ displaying_an_HDCP_error.2C_or_multiple_images_may_appear_on _HD_channels), but those aren't specifically due to the use of an A/V receiver.

Anyone can call themselves a install professional and from your post you seem to have run into two.

people can have on some occasions with some receivers have trouble with hdmi hdcp handshaking through receivers, but if your "professionals" were telling you tvs are bing ruined perhaps they are blaming screwing up on the STB's.

Sure, you guys don't know me as I don't know you.
I have known the 2 guys for a long time and know they would not lie to me and they know thier bussiness.
I will take thier advice.
I'm not willing to take the chance and ruin any part of my brand new TV.
Like I said grain of salt, do as you will, just want to help and warn others of a possible issue.

As I said, I don't know details about the HDMI issue they have run into but I do know they have been doing home theatre installs for many years as a career, not hobby and I 'm just passing along the warning they gave me.
I was aware my post would not go over well here as everyone wants to get the best pic possible and HDMI is the way to get that. I was planning on using HDMI as well until I found this out.

A warning to all using these boxes and HDMI!!

I have talked to 2 home theatre install professionals and both of them recommend to use component and NOT HDMI.
They have both run into many issues with these boxes and HDMI.
Worse case, it could permanently ruin the HDMI input on your TV.
They both have seen this happen more than once.

I could only hope this would happen in a few months! Then Comcast would be buying my new HDTV that is HDMI 1.3 compliant. But I have a feeling that it's just not true...

I have not had ANY HDMI problems since the 16.20 firmware came out. I use HDMI with my Panny Plasma and Toshiba DLP. I have done four installs for friends using HDMI with Denon AV Receivers and it worked fine. I have sold numerous Panny Plasma sets to my clients and used HDMI on all of them.

If installers are running into serious problems, I think it is the HDMI cables they are using. I have run across a couple of cables that did not fit tight enough to work properly.

I wasn't able to get my Sony AVR's HDMI switching to work with my 3416 (v.16.20). I'm using one of the Monoprice basic 2 port switches and it works fine. It's a bit disappointing, but not something I can't live with.

if your "professionals" were telling you tvs are bing ruined perhaps they are blaming screwing up on the STB's.That was my first instinct: These so-called "professionals" are probably trying to shift blame for problems that are typically caused by the manufacturer or the techs themselves.

I wasn't able to get my Sony AVR's HDMI switching to work with my 3416 (v.16.20). I'm using one of the Monoprice basic 2 port switches and it works fine. It's a bit disappointing, but not something I can't live with.


When connecting the Denon HDMI Receivers for my friends, I noticed a small but annoying problem. When a Denon comes out ot the box, HDMI is shut off. You need to connect a composite video cable to your monitor long enough to see the on screen diplays and switch on the HDMI......

:confused: I have talked to 2 home theatre install professionals and both of them recommend to use component and NOT HDMI.
...
Worse case, it could permanently ruin the HDMI input on your TV.
...

Anyone can call themselves a install professional and from your post you seem to have run into two.

people can have on some occasions with some receivers have trouble with hdmi hdcp handshaking through receivers, but if your "professionals" were telling you tvs are bing ruined perhaps they are blaming screwing up on the STB's.
I am sure these guys are just trying to minimize their installation time, but ruin the input on the display, huh? Perhaps with a bad cable. Component hookup is a sure thing whereas an HDMI connection might have an occasional problem that these guys don't care to deal with.

I am happy to say my 3416 with 16.20 firmware works perfectly with my Sony KDL-46V2500 1080P LCD panel via HDMI.

When connecting the Denon HDMI Receivers for my friends, I noticed a small but annoying problem. When a Denon comes out ot the box, HDMI is shut off. You need to connect a composite video cable to your monitor long enough to see the on screen diplays and switch on the HDMI......

My Yamaha 2700 came out of the box programmed with the GUI language in Japanese! A tech led me to the directions to correct the language through the front panel.

My HD RCA DLP TV has a HDMI connection so I bought a cheap Sony DVD player with HDMI complete with the HDMI cable to use as a back up. The picture was so poor I returned it. The supplied cable was about the thickness of a USB cord. When I purchased the 2700, I ordered a 32' HDMI cable made up and my 3416 is connected to the 2700 via a 3' HDMI cable. The picture couldn't be better.

For those with a 3412 box........


My TV has four visual modes(4:3, 16:9, Zoom1, Zoom2). I believe the zoom functions are to enlarge the 4:3 format to fit the bigger screen; however, both zoom formats are grayed out on my TV's settings(won't let me select them). One of my friend's mentioned that I could change this in the user settings on the cable box?? I've found that menu he was referring to, but the TV type is set to 16:9.

Is there another setting I can change to get these zooms to work and expand the 4:3 format on the lower channels?

Thanks.

For those with a 3412 box........


My TV has four visual modes(4:3, 16:9, Zoom1, Zoom2). I believe the zoom functions are to enlarge the 4:3 format to fit the bigger screen; however, both zoom formats are grayed out on my TV's settings(won't let me select them). One of my friend's mentioned that I could change this in the user settings on the cable box?? I've found that menu he was referring to, but the TV type is set to 16:9.

Is there another setting I can change to get these zooms to work and expand the 4:3 format on the lower channels?

Thanks.


I think what is happening is that in the setup menu you have the 4:3 override set to "OFF". This converts the SD signal into whatever format you have for HD (720p or 1080i). Thus you get the pillarboxes on the sides.

What you should do is select one of the other options. I usually use either "STRETCH", which stretches the picture for fit 16:9, and converts it to an HD signal. Or I use 480p which will send it in 480p to your tv and then you can set the 4:3 override on your tv to stretch the picture. I usually use stretch because it displays the guide as a nice square on all channels instead of when I have the tv to the stretch and it makes the guide fill the whole screen.

If that makes any sense.

Also check out the wiki under 4;3 override.

For those with a 3412 box........


My TV has four visual modes(4:3, 16:9, Zoom1, Zoom2). I believe the zoom functions are to enlarge the 4:3 format to fit the bigger screen; however, both zoom formats are grayed out on my TV's settings(won't let me select them). One of my friend's mentioned that I could change this in the user settings on the cable box?? I've found that menu he was referring to, but the TV type is set to 16:9.

Is there another setting I can change to get these zooms to work and expand the 4:3 format on the lower channels?

Thanks.

Some tv screen modes are only available via a certain connection type.

Are you using Component or HDMI ?

What brand and model TV? Do you have the owners Book?

Some tv screen modes are only available via a certain connection type.

Are you using Component or HDMI ?

What brand and model TV? Do you have the owners Book?


I have a Samsung s4253. I'm at work at the moment so i don't have the book with me, but what the previous postered said sounds like it will work. I'm guessing my 4:3 override is set to off.

My Yamaha 2700 came out of the box programmed with the GUI language in Japanese!

:D

I have a Samsung s4253. I'm at work at the moment so i don't have the book with me, but what the previous postered said sounds like it will work. I'm guessing my 4:3 override is set to off.


ok, I read the OM, and on page 57 it states.

In TV, Video, S-Video, and Component (480i, 480p) modes, all screen modes can be selected. (16:9 -> Zoom1, Zoom2, 4:3)

In TV(DTV), Component (720p, 1080i), PC, and HDMI modes, Only 16:9, 4:3 screen modes can be selected

So Yes check your STB user settings.

ok, I read the OM, and on page 57 it states.

In TV, Video, S-Video, and Component (480i, 480p) modes, all screen modes can be selected. (16:9 -> Zoom1, Zoom2, 4:3)

In TV(DTV), Component (720p, 1080i), PC, and HDMI modes, Only 16:9, 4:3 screen modes can be selected

So Yes check your STB user settings.

I'm running through HDMI..... what would you suggest?

I use HDMI and use the stretch. The main reason was that my first TV was DLP, and the manual recommended NOT using 4:3 if your "box" only puts up black lines. The HD Tivo I had for 1 day used grey sides, but the comcast box leaves it black, and apparently that was a bad thing on the DLP...is it a bad thing on the LCD? I don't know, but you get used to the stretch quickly and forget its even there, unless a guest reminds you.

I use HDMI and use the stretch. The main reason was that my first TV was DLP, and the manual recommended NOT using 4:3 if your "box" only puts up black lines. The HD Tivo I had for 1 day used grey sides, but the comcast box leaves it black, and apparently that was a bad thing on the DLP...is it a bad thing on the LCD? I don't know, but you get used to the stretch quickly and forget its even there, unless a guest reminds you.

Funny you said that. The reason I started looking into this whole thing was because I started seeing two vertical lines down my screen(when in HD), right where the inside of the 4:3 bars would be. I have a plasma, so i'm guessing those marks are now burned in. Frustrating. Wish i had looked into this further when i first got the tv.

I'm running through HDMI..... what would you suggest?

Using HDMI cable, your stuck with only the 2 screen modes (16:9, 4:3)

it's the same way as my sanyo 42 LCD.

Comcast and TiVo at CES -

http://biz.yahoo.com/prnews/070108/nym108.html

Is there any way to get content off the DCT 3416 I? That is the model I currently have. I've seen things about being able to do this with the Moto 6412..is this the only Comcast box where this can be done?

If so I guess I'll check with the local cable office and see if they have any Moto 6412 boxes that I can have instead of my current box.

Just follow the directions for the 6412 it's the same software and drivers. Look at reply #2735.

I noticed today POP-UP ads when pressing guide button on my 3416 HD-DVR box.
Does anybody else have this?
This is annoying. :mad:

I noticed today POP-UP ads when pressing guide button on my 3416 HD-DVR box.
Does anybody else have this?
This is annoying. :mad:

Be sure to call and complain!

No pop-ups here in Portland, OR yet.

I just came in to the 21st century a month ago when I got an LG 42" Plasma and the 3416 from Comcast. Have been diligently reading this forum and the Wiki and have learned a lot (thanks to all that contributed). The main issue I'm having is that ever since I got the box, OnDemand gives an error when I try to enter it. Since I've never had it before, I didn't really worry too much about it but, I'm now starting to feel that I might be missing something useful. The error I'm getting is: ERROR RETRIEVING DATA
E1003
Initializing. Please try again in 5
Minutes. (appmgr.c/858)
I have tried multiple times and always get this error. I haven't seen anything in the forums or the Wiki discussing this problem. I do know that I seem to have a pretty old version of the firmware 12.31 and S/W Version 71.44-1203. I'm in the South Bend Indiana Comcast area and I don't know if our head end is just behind or what. I have done a DVR Authorization and Factory Full Reset as much to see if it brought down a newer version of firmware as to see if it fixed the issue. Other than this issue I haven't had many problems with the box. It has locked up a couple times with a garbled screen on both tuners. Only way I found to reset was to unplug it. It may be due to poor signal strength but, when I checked the levels on one of the stations that it occurred on, everything registered in the good range. Any thoughts?

No pop-ups here in Portland, OR yet.

...probably not a matter of if, but when. :(

Been at least 2 weeks for me! It's very annoying!!

Looks like they finally fixed this bug on Portland :) I'm getting my HD channels on my favorites list again.

That is good news that they are demo-ing the Tivo flavor of the Comcast DVR at the electronics show. I wish they would say when it will be available.

I have a Comcast 3416 attached to a Sharp LC-37D6U via HDMI in the Bay Area.

I have the HDMI sync problem where if I turn on the TV I don't get a picture (no sync).

I can reliably sync if I turn the 3416 off then on (which is no good if I'm recording).

I can reliably sync if I unplug and plug the HDMI cable (which is a pain).

I can sometimes sync by swapping tuners (I saw this suggestion in the thread) but it oftens doesn't work.

I can work around the problem by using the component cable which always works but isn't HDMI.

I didn't have this problem until early in December. Someone noted that Comcast did a firmware update around this time. Is this confirmed to be the cause of the problem?

Does anyone know whether Comcast plans to fix this in the next firmware update?

Thanks!

Just got the 3416 yesterday (West Chicago Burbs) which replaced the 6412. So far it's working perfectly. Channels 0-99 are MUCH improved. Running on HDMI. Samsung DLP HLP5674w (720 tv). 1080i with override OFF.

Just got the 3416 yesterday (West Chicago Burbs) which replaced the 6412. So far it's working perfectly. Channels 0-99 are MUCH improved. Running on HDMI. Samsung DLP HLP5674w (720 tv). 1080i with override OFF.

Hmmm..... wonder if I can make the switch yet here in Chicago. How far "west" are ya? I'm near O'Hare myself....

How do you mean they are much improved? What were you having troubles with?

North Downers Grove by Oak Brook/Lombard. Channels 0-99 are sharper/clearer. Overall improvement that I didn't bank on so it was a nice bonus. It's still vastly inferior but "I'm" seeing an improvement. This may or may not be technically possible, but that's my strong impression. I have 16.20 firmware version.

I had vast problems with my 6412s tho they weren't Phase 3's. Fingers crossed that I have a 3416 that's a keeper!

North Downers Grove by Oak Brook/Lombard. Channels 0-99 are sharper/clearer. Overall improvement that I didn't bank on so it was a nice bonus. It's still vastly inferior but "I'm" seeing an improvement. This may or may not be technically possible, but that's my strong impression. I have 16.20 firmware version.

I had vast problems with my 6412s tho they weren't Phase 3's. Fingers crossed that I have a 3416 that's a keeper!

Correct me if I'm wrong, but this is impossible. Digital is all or nothing.... not more clear... possibly a placebo effect? I have 16.20 on my 6412...

Nevermind.... Just read the 34**s are all digital where the 64** have both? Maybe you had analog on your 0-99 before?

Like I said, perhaps technically impossible. I admit to not being an expert on this stuff as my husband handles the video wireing. I do the calibrating and handle the audio stuff. We had the old box on DVI. 0-99 was through that same as the higher end channels. (We have the Digital Silver pkg.) Now we have it running via HDMI. Perhaps the HDMI worked some magic? 'Something' happened here that offered an improvement of those channels and husband agrees with me. No tweaks to the feed were done, just a simple box swap. Note that it still sucks, but it's better to us. I'm getting very impatient with 0-99 not being up to par for me and frustrated over the slowness of everything getting ramped up. I'm also ticked that we have like 4 sports only HDs. I mean, I like a bit of sports (football, basketball, x-games, etc) but sheesh. I want my INDH2 back also! Tap tap tap.....

EDIT: One thing I'm having an issue with is the guide not being fully populated. I can't program my series recordings cuz the shows just don't show up. Today is day 3 and if they aren't there, then I need to give Comcast a call.

Just got the 3416 yesterday (West Chicago Burbs) which replaced the 6412. So far it's working perfectly. Channels 0-99 are MUCH improved.

Could it be that the 6412 didn't have ADS implemented, and thus was doing the analog/digital conversion internally?

Recently installed HD for the first time (new Sharp LC-37D40U) and had to "upgrade" from our ancient 6412 because I could not get a proper signal to display via component. Anyway, received a 3416 at the CC office and since installing it, the fan on this DVR is really loud. I've owned a series 2 TiVo for years and my girlfriend owned the old 6412 for years so I'm used to a low hum from a DVR (in an otherwise silent room) but I wouldn't expect to hear it over the sound of the TV.

Yeah, this 3416 is so LOUD that I can hear it over the TV. I can actually hear it at night from the next room when everything is turned off. I realize it's COMCASTIC and all, but this is ridiculously loud. I actually unplugged it to watch a movie the second day we had it.

This can't be normal. I just want to make sure before I take this back for an exchange the friendly CC rep tells me it's "normal."

Recently installed HD for the first time (new Sharp LC-37D40U) and had to "upgrade" from our ancient 6412 because I could not get a proper signal to display via component. Anyway, received a 3416 at the CC office and since installing it, the fan on this DVR is really loud. I've owned a series 2 TiVo for years and my girlfriend owned the old 6412 for years so I'm used to a low hum from a DVR (in an otherwise silent room) but I wouldn't expect to hear it over the sound of the TV.

Yeah, this 3416 is so LOUD that I can hear it over the TV. I can actually hear it at night from the next room when everything is turned off. I realize it's COMCASTIC and all, but this is ridiculously loud. I actually unplugged it to watch a movie the second day we had it.

This can't be normal. I just want to make sure before I take this back for an exchange the friendly CC rep tells me it's "normal."

Mine is very quiet. Works great.

Hmmm..... wonder if I can make the switch yet here in Chicago. How far "west" are ya? I'm near O'Hare myself....

How do you mean they are much improved? What were you having troubles with?

Im in Chicago / Lincoln Park and have a 3416. Picked it up at the office on North Ave near 90/94.

Joel - Mine is quiet.

Silent surrounds in 5.1 with some HD channels

I am located in Northern California in Contra Costa County. Comcast is the provider. I am on my third Moto 3412 in one week. Before that I was a reasonably satisfied user. The third DVR seems to have fixed a persistent problem of black screen when trying to playback any recorded programs. Signal strenghth up and down is good. No errors are counted in a short check of the status menu. The latest firmware is loaded. The box is cool and quite.

I have an Onkyo 702 that is correctly installed and has been performing well for several months. All connections are tight. Karma is OK. Dolby and DTS decoding work as they should on DVD sources and on Dolby 2.0 TV. Dolby D, DEx, THX and PL2x all seem to be normal. The equipment is in a cabinet with exhaust, intake and two circulation fans for cooling.

The issue is this --when tuned to some HD channels that display a 5.1 notice on the info bar and which the receiver recognizes as 3/2.1, there is nothing on the surrounds, zip, nothing. UHD and TNT are persistently this way. When Fox, PBS, INHD (and IHD2 -continuous music) and Discovery show the 5.1 flag all channels are fine. The networks are a mixed bag.

Comcast phone support could only roll a truck. The tech was interested and could see the problem. He agreed that it could not be the receiver as it worked fine with DVDs and some 5.1 programs. He placed a couple of calls, and of course the first "expert" told him to blame the customer.

The second "expert" told him that it might be a Comcast problem, but they would have to hand it off. I was promised a status update yesterday. I am still waiting.

I think you can see my concern. Programming labeled as 5.1 and that we know was 5.1 originally, should be delivered with 5.1 content intact. If TNT or Comcast or NBC decide to deliver 2.0 then they should label it as such.

Sometimes the info screen says 5.1 and flips immediately to Dolby or DD when the program locks in. At least that's honest. 3/0.1 is sent as 3/2.1 is not.

Silent surrounds in 5.1 with some HD channels

I am located in Northern California in Contra Costa County. Comcast is the provider. I am on my third Moto 3412 in one week. Before that I was a reasonably satisfied user. The third DVR seems to have fixed a persistent problem of black screen when trying to playback any recorded programs. Signal strenghth up and down is good. No errors are counted in a short check of the status menu. The latest firmware is loaded. The box is cool and quite.

I have an Onkyo 702 that is correctly installed and has been performing well for several months. All connections are tight. Karma is OK. Dolby and DTS decoding work as they should on DVD sources and on Dolby 2.0 TV. Dolby D, DEx, THX and PL2x all seem to be normal. The equipment is in a cabinet with exhaust, intake and two circulation fans for cooling.

The issue is this --when tuned to some HD channels that display a 5.1 notice on the info bar and which the receiver recognizes as 3/2.1, there is nothing on the surrounds, zip, nothing. UHD and TNT are persistently this way. When Fox, PBS, INHD (and IHD2 -continuous music) and Discovery show the 5.1 flag all channels are fine. The networks are a mixed bag.

Comcast phone support could only roll a truck. The tech was interested and could see the problem. He agreed that it could not be the receiver as it worked fine with DVDs and some 5.1 programs. He placed a couple of calls, and of course the first "expert" told him to blame the customer.

The second "expert" told him that it might be a Comcast problem, but they would have to hand it off. I was promised a status update yesterday. I am still waiting.

I think you can see my concern. Programming labeled as 5.1 and that we know was 5.1 originally, should be delivered with 5.1 content intact. If TNT or Comcast or NBC decide to deliver 2.0 then they should label it as such.

Sometimes the info screen says 5.1 and flips immediately to Dolby or DD when the program locks in. At least that's honest. 3/0.1 is sent as 3/2.1 is not.

ha, I was just about to post something similar. I'm on Comcast in Central PA (using the 3412), but I have the opposite problem. Some shows (such as The Office) have center speaker sound, but other shows, such as Leno on NBC and Firefly on UHD show 5.1 sound being received on my receiver, but my center speaker kicks out absolutely nothing. It sounds awful with just sound coming out of the L&R, and of course I have to turn the volume way up to hear it....which results in ear splitting volume when I change the channels.

Many HD channels just lock 5.1 on and pass everything through that. A few may do some processing to create surround, but others just pass as-is.

I have the same issue with Leno.

Basically, this is usually an issue with the original source channel, not Comcast or your box. They are just passing on what they receive. If you have any complaints, send them to NBC, TNT, etc..

"shows, such as Leno on NBC and Firefly on UHD show 5.1 sound being received on my receiver, but my center speaker kicks out absolutely nothing."

I've read about and experienced the NBC nothing on the center myself in the original NBC broadcast. I've not experienced it on UHD.

So if some of us are having an issue and others are not, and that seems to be the case, the suspicion falls on the carrier, in my case Comcast.
------------
"Many HD channels just lock 5.1 on and pass everything through that. A few may do some processing to create surround, but others just pass as-is."

Every HD channel I get and does switch from 5.1 to DD depending upon the program encoding. There is no channel in the mix that locks on 5.1.

I've not heard nor would it make sense for the carrier to process the sound for fake surround. If it was true it would support the idea that what you hear is what the carrier decides you should hear.

"I have the same issue with Leno."

If it is only Leno then clearly the problem is with the carrier.

"Basically, this is usually an issue with the original source channel, not Comcast or your box. They are just passing on what they receive. If you have any complaints, send them to NBC, TNT, etc.."

Complaining to the cable carrier does have a point they are selling and 5.1 surround as feature, and listing it in the guide. They, not NBC is telling the lie to us.

I am not able to get OTA HD, if I was we would know. Perhaps someone who gets both OTA and cable can jump in. Are the shows in 5.1 OTA that are 2.0 on cable.

How about this? Is anyone getting any real 5.1 programing on TNT right now? Is yes which one?

How about NBC? Which programs do you get in real 5.1?

How about UHD? Is Galactica in 5.1?

Any of the Law and Order franchise on NBC? These used to be originated in 5.1?

Are you getting it OTA or sat or cable? Where are you?

Real 5.1 will show on your receiver show on your receiver as 5.1 and have sounds on the L and R surrounds with no matrix processing turned on (no enhanced, PLX2 etc.

Well, let's everybody watch Leno (for those who don't know what we are talking about, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Mon-Fri at 11:35pm ET.) Make certain you turn OFF any enhancement on your receiver. Just set it to plain surround. Do you get any audio on your center channel?

As far as always switching, many channels are trying to avoid that. In the Chicago OTA (OverTheAir) thread, a tech from WLS-TV mentioned they now have a switcher that always sends 5.1. Regular audio is processed or passed through. WGN here in Chicago is also always sending 5.1.

One issue with switching back and forth is it can cause popping and loss of audio for a few seconds.

Well, let's everybody watch Leno (for those who don't know what we are talking about, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Mon-Fri at 11:35pm ET.) Make certain you turn OFF any enhancement on your receiver. Just set it to plain surround. Do you get any audio on your center channel?

As far as always switching, many channels are trying to avoid that. In the Chicago OTA (OverTheAir) thread, a tech from WLS-TV mentioned they now have a switcher that always sends 5.1. Regular audio is processed or passed through. WGN here in Chicago is also always sending 5.1.

One issue with switching back and forth is it can cause popping and loss of audio for a few seconds.

I watched some Leno last night flagged as 5.1 but actually 2.0. Law and Order was flagged as 5.1 and was 5.1. The prior two episodes were 2.0. Las Vegas was 5.1 last episode but last week it was 2.0.

That is interesting about the not switching. Those little pauses are a bit annoying and I suppose that there are some number (perhaps a large number) of watchers who don't actually know or care if it is 5.1 or 2.0.

But the mystery remains why are 5.1 programs delivered in 2.0?

Like I said, perhaps technically impossible. I admit to not being an expert on this stuff as my husband handles the video wireing. I do the calibrating and handle the audio stuff. We had the old box on DVI. 0-99 was through that same as the higher end channels. (We have the Digital Silver pkg.) Now we have it running via HDMI. Perhaps the HDMI worked some magic? 'Something' happened here that offered an improvement of those channels and husband agrees with me. No tweaks to the feed were done, just a simple box swap. Note that it still sucks, but it's better to us. I'm getting very impatient with 0-99 not being up to par for me and frustrated over the slowness of everything getting ramped up. I'm also ticked that we have like 4 sports only HDs. I mean, I like a bit of sports (football, basketball, x-games, etc) but sheesh. I want my INDH2 back also! Tap tap tap.....

EDIT: One thing I'm having an issue with is the guide not being fully populated. I can't program my series recordings cuz the shows just don't show up. Today is day 3 and if they aren't there, then I need to give Comcast a call.


I too noticed some improvement on the quality with the 3412 (ADS). I moved from the 6412 to the 3412. The 3412 is using ADS while the 6412 was doing digital-to-analog conversion for the standard cable channels (0-99). The 6412 had some visible compression/digitalization side-affects.

I've had the Motorola 3416 for about six weeks. Early this morning it apparently reset itself. All recordings and recording instructions were gone. I've looked through this forum for similar problems - without success. Has anyone come across postings that might help me prevent this problem in the future? Thanks

Someone tells me Comcast sends out late night instructions to STB's and that maybe my box didn't handle it well last night. Does this seem possible?

Just delete those 2 programs, they are corrupted. The digital signal was lost and nothing else was recorded. Remember with digital, it is there or it's not there, there is no in-between like analog signals.

Check your signal strength via the Diagnostic screen for both Cable Tuners and the OOB Tuner.

Turn STB off and press ok/select within 2 sec. to access the Diagnostic menu.

A copy of my first post from the 6412 Forum...

For those experiencing the "NPLY" issues, there may be a simple solution.

I started getting the same issue a few days ago. A few posts I read said that the program was corrupt once the NPLY error surfaced and should be deleted - PLEASE DON'T.

Well, here is my successful work around: the 30 second skip hack. Yep. Just forward to a few seconds before the lockup and hit the skip. It's worked everytime for me so far. Hopefully it works for you.

While I have your attention, thanks to everyone here on the AVSForums for all the help you have provided over the years.

SN

I've had the Motorola 3416 for about six weeks. Early this morning it apparently reset itself. All recordings and recording instructions were gone. I've looked through this forum for similar problems - without success. Has anyone come across postings that might help me prevent this problem in the future? Thanks

Someone tells me Comcast sends out late night instructions to STB's and that maybe my box didn't handle it well last night. Does this seem possible?
Sorry to hear man, that really suX!
I have had no problems with my 3416 but I now think it might be a good idea to copy saved DVR shows you want to have for a while to another source.
TY for the heads up.

Sorry to hear man, that really suX!
I have had no problems with my 3416 but I now think it might be a good idea to copy saved DVR shows you want to have for a while to another source.
TY for the heads up.

This happened to my old 6412 PII after I had had it for over a year. It had been on the fritz anyway, and pretty much the only reason I was keeping it was to still have the stuff on the hard drive. Once it was gone, I had no reason to keep it and swapped it for a new 3416, works a lot better and an extra 40GB :)

I've had the Motorola 3416 for about six weeks. Early this morning it apparently reset itself. All recordings and recording instructions were gone. I've looked through this forum for similar problems - without success. Has anyone come across postings that might help me prevent this problem in the future? Thanks

Someone tells me Comcast sends out late night instructions to STB's and that maybe my box didn't handle it well last night. Does this seem possible?

You either lost power or the box powered down. I had a few boxes that did the same thing, whenever power was lost to the box everything was deleted.

You either lost power or the box powered down. I had a few boxes that did the same thing, whenever power was lost to the box everything was deleted.
You should NOT lose recordings and scheduled recordings due to a power loss. The only reasons I can think of losing everything would be due to:
disk corruption requiring a reformat
an inadvertent signal sent to your box causing a reformat

You should NOT lose recordings and scheduled recordings due to a power loss. The only reasons I can think of losing everything would be due to:
disk corruption requiring a reformat
an inadvertent signal sent to your box causing a reformat
I have pulled the power since having mine and did not lose any recorded shows or setup future recordings.
I did lose all the guide program info until it was downloaded again which did not take long.

Thanks for your views. Sounds like the problem is in the 3416. If it happens again I'll trade it in.

I am not sure if someone mentioned this. I had a similiar experience where my new Comcast box seemed to have lost everything. However, it turned out that they had never properly activated my account. After a nice long phone call, they had me unplug the box, when it booted back up it recognized that I was an activated user and my recordings were back.

Like many of you, I lost the use of the HDMI port on my 3412 sometime back in
November. I have firmware version 16.20. It seems some people can still use
HDMI although I have not been able to. I have looked at the user adjustable
settings and cannot even find the 'Additional HDMI' menu to adjust them.
Is there anything I can do short of wishing for firmware update?

I have even read the Moto wiki and have tried a few power off/ power on
suggestions with no success.

Like many of you, I lost the use of the HDMI port on my 3412 sometime back in
November. I have firmware version 16.20. It seems some people can still use
HDMI although I have not been able to. I have looked at the user adjustable
settings and cannot even find the 'Additional HDMI' menu to adjust them.
Is there anything I can do short of wishing for firmware update?

I have even read the Moto wiki and have tried a few power off/ power on
suggestions with no success.

Take your box back to Comcast to exchange it for a new one. FWIW, I've got the same model and firmware version and my HDMI works fine.

Take your box back to Comcast to exchange it for a new one.

Unfortunately, trading in this crap hardware can get to be a fulltime activity...

I have yet to see a 3000 series box NOT have the HDMI work since 16.20 came out. I have three of them myself and I have installed another dozen or so for friends and clients.

I second exchanging the box.

To correctly access the user settings for HDMI, I assume I need to have the TV
tuned to an HD channel, and have my television set for the proper input. When
I access the user settings when the TV is set to component input, I do not see
a way to set the "Additional HDMI Settings".

I've tried to access the 3412's user settings via the HDMI input on my TV and
could not see anything. Could this be caused by my boxes current settings?

To correctly access the user settings for HDMI, I assume I need to have the TV
tuned to an HD channel, and have my television set for the proper input. When
I access the user settings when the TV is set to component input, I do not see
a way to set the "Additional HDMI Settings".

I've tried to access the 3412's user settings via the HDMI input on my TV and
could not see anything. Could this be caused by my boxes current settings?


there is a blank line between the tv settings and the CC settings. You need to place the cursor on the blank line and press the right arrow key.

there is a blank line between the tv settings and the CC settings. You need to place the cursor on the blank line and press the right arrow key.

Does it matter if I am using component or HDMI input to adjust the user
settings? Sorry about all the questions, I am at work right now so I can't
troubleshoot my way through this issue at the moment.

Does it matter if I am using component or HDMI input to adjust the user
settings? Sorry about all the questions, I am at work right now so I can't
work my way through this issue at the moment.

You can access the HDMI / DVI sub menu, however unless there is a HDMI or DVI cable connected to the STB, the selections on the sub menu will remain greyed out.

You can access the HDMI / DVI sub menu, however unless there is a HDMI or DVI cable connected to the STB, the selections on the sub menu will remain greyed out.

I guess my main problem is I can't see this entry in the user accessible settings
at all. I just checked and I see:
- TV Type
- YPbPr Output
- 4:3 Override
- Service Selection
...
Greyed out entries here
...
- Restore All Defaults

I don't see an entry for Additional HDMI Settings. I am at a loss.

I guess my main problem is I can't see this entry in the user accessible settings
at all. I just checked and I see:
- TV Type
- YPbPr Output
- 4:3 Override
- Service Selection
...
Greyed out entries here
...
- Restore All Defaults

I don't see an entry for Additional HDMI Settings. I am at a loss.

What STB model and phase do you have and what F/W and Software version are you running?

What STB model and phase do you have and what F/W and Software version are you running?

I have a DCT3412 Phase I - FW version 16.20 and Guide version 74.53.

there is a blank line between the tv settings and the CC settings. You need to place the cursor on the blank line and press the right arrow key.
I've got a 3416 and the cursor won't even stop on the blank line. Currently, I'm not using the HDMI output on the STB. Is that why it won't stop on the blank line?

Who designed this nifty software feature that requires the user to put the cursor on a blank line and press the right arrow key? :eek:

Apologize if this has been asked previously, I'm unable to locate the search function on this board. I've read about 50 pages of posts.

I have a 3416 with HDMI hooked up to Samsung4092LCD. HD looks great but no matter what 4:3 settings I use (480i, off, or stretch) SD looks horrible. I can see what looks like large pixellation though it's more horizontal boxing than square pixels. Menus and text on screen are almost unreadable. RF input if I bypass the box looks acceptable, not great though I know SD will never be great.

Question is, could it be signal strength? Second question, can I use both S-video cable and HDMI at the same time and switch source on TV to view each?

Thanks in advance.

Just follow the directions for the 6412 it's the same software and drivers. Look at reply #2735.

From what I read earlier it seemed the firewire port on the 3416 is not enabled? So you can actually rip things from the 3416 box with firewire and the proper software?

From what I read earlier it seemed the firewire port on the 3416 is not enabled? So you can actually rip things from the 3416 box with firewire and the proper software?
It works ok for me with my 3416 and CapDVHS on my HTPC.

From what I read earlier it seemed the firewire port on the 3416 is not enabled? So you can actually rip things from the 3416 box with firewire and the proper software?

It is enabled, and you can.

Through trial and error the HDMI info on the setup menu do not appear unless the hdmi is connected to a tv, the tv is on, and in my case the TV is set to the HDMI input. If you use a receiver with HDMI switching then that needs to have the proper input setting as well. It seems like there the DVR has to see the TV. Initially I had to unplug and replug the HDMI cable to get the DVR to "see" the TV.

Apologize if this has been asked previously, I'm unable to locate the search function on this board.

I'd press the 'Search this thread' button on the first line under the advertisements. :rolleyes:

Through trial and error the HDMI info on the setup menu do not appear unless the hdmi is connected to a tv, the tv is on, and in my case the TV is set to the HDMI input. If you use a receiver with HDMI switching then that needs to have the proper input setting as well. It seems like there the DVR has to see the TV. Initially I had to unplug and replug the HDMI cable to get the DVR to "see" the TV.

Thanks for the tip. When did you unplug/replug the cable? After you accessed
the settings menu? Right now I am using component video to output the
signal from my 3412 but the the HDMI cable is still connected. When I access
the settings menu and HDMI is the input on my television, I don't see anything
on the display at all. Even so, when I try to scroll through the settings via the
LED display on the 3412, the HDMI settings do not appear.

Just got a 3416 (replacing a 6412) I have a LG Plasma. I had been very disappointed in the analog picture and was hoping the 3416 would provide a better, all digital picture, but the old analog channels seem no better than with the 6412.
I tried component and HMDI connections - no difference.
I hooked up a DCT700 and the old analog/now digital channels are great. ( but no HD of course)
Can anyone offer advice on how to get a better digital picture out of the 3416 on the old analog channels?

I'd press the 'Search this thread' button on the first line under the advertisements. :rolleyes:
Didn't show until after I posted. Now that I've searched as much as I can, does anyone have an answer as to whether I can have both HDMI and S-video functioning at same time?

Didn't show until after I posted. Now that I've searched as much as I can, does anyone have an answer as to whether I can have both HDMI and S-video functioning at same time?

Yes, all the outputs function simultaneously -- but I doubt that you'll see a better result with S-video. You might try splitting the incoming coax signal before the box and using the TV tuner for the analogs.

I'd press the 'Search this thread' button on the first line under the advertisements. :rolleyes:
The search button only appears if you are logged in, so some new AVS Forum users have no idea that it even exists.

Hopefully, this hasn't been asked too many times. I've read a lot of the archive and found one plaintive post which was not answered. I exchange my DVI-D 64xx for an HDMI 3416 and the volume now does not control my SONY KDL 40V2500. I have locked and unlocked TV on the remote, but I use a programmable remote that worked fine before. The volume control from the box works with the analog cables thru the TV HDMI input 6. Mute works with the remote thru HDMI inputs 6 and 7. The volume gradations on the display go up and down, but to no effect. Is this a known problem with HDMI vs. DVI-D? Thanks.

Same thing happened to me on my Sony KDL46V2500.

Originally I had the 3416 connected with component and the cable remote controlled the TV volume. Then I got HDMI and the cable remote no longer controls the TV volume. The bars appear on the screen but no change in volume. I have to use the TV remote to control the volume.

It's bugging me. Anyone have an answer for this issue yet?

Same thing happened to me on my Sony KDL46V2500.

Originally I had the 3416 connected with component and the cable remote controlled the TV volume. Then I got HDMI and the cable remote no longer controls the TV volume. The bars appear on the screen but no change in volume. I have to use the TV remote to control the volume.

It's bugging me. Anyone have an answer for this issue yet?

HDMI sends a Digital Audio feed. The STB Vol. control only effects the Analog Audio output via RF coax, or the Analog RCA L/R Audio outputs.

HDMI sends a Digital Audio feed. The STB Vol. control only effects the Analog Audio output via RF coax, or the Analog RCA L/R Audio outputs.
Thanks. Any workaround that you know of?

set your comcast remote to always control the tv when a VOL +/- mute button is pressed.

see this page:

http://cjhengineering.com/hdtv/cablehdtv/dct6412remote.htm

Unfortunately, trading in this crap hardware can get to be a fulltime activity...

Crap Hardware?

My 3416 has been rock solid for the last 3 weeks!

set your comcast remote to always control the tv when a VOL +/- mute button is pressed.

see this page:

http://cjhengineering.com/hdtv/cablehdtv/dct6412remote.htm


...or your receiver or HTiB. I finally RTFM and got it to work so now I only have 1 remote. I will say it was much easier with the Tivo.

Just push the TV button on the remote. It will then control the TV volume - graphic will be on the bottom. At least that's the way it works on my Samsung with HDMI.

holimont, if you're responding to my post, the steps I took made it so the DEFAULT for the volume is my AUX on the remote, so you can use your receiver, HTiB or whatever...the point is that you DO NOT have to push the AUX button to control the volume *ahem* just like the Tivo.

Thanks for the tip. When did you unplug/replug the cable? After you accessed
the settings menu? Right now I am using component video to output the
signal from my 3412 but the the HDMI cable is still connected. When I access
the settings menu and HDMI is the input on my television, I don't see anything
on the display at all. Even so, when I try to scroll through the settings via the
LED display on the 3412, the HDMI settings do not appear.

Start with everything off and dvr unplugged. Turn on TV select HDMI input. Turn on receiver if used, select proper input/output. Plug in DVR. While still 'off' put user setup mode by pressing menu. If the menu doen't show up on your tv unplug the cable and plug it back in. You might have to exit menu (pres menu) and then press menu again.

This has happened to me after power outages...but I just tried to recreate it before writing this and I couldn't get the HDMI options to not show up. Maybe it was fixed with firmware update???

Can the 3416 display the current time in the LCD screen or only the channel?

The 3416 can be set up to display either time or channel on its lcd screen, just as for the 6412, using the options under "Menu".

whew, what a gi-normous forum topic! You folks are prodigious posters! Seemed wrong to blurt out questions without making a best-effort to learn about the hardware / software first (confession: I started reading from late 2006, thinking some threads would be about old firmware updates, etc.).

Background: HDTV newB, LG 37lc2d. I'm switching from hybrid DirecTV - Comcast (basic paired with internet) to all Comcast, Digital Plus (for various reasons). When the LG was allowed to auto-scan it found a lot of channels, but, I want the guide, the entire HD package, time-shifting via DVR and feel obliged to pay for what I receive.

Next week Ccast will roll a truck to make some line mod (install trap?). No idea how this will affect the split line running to another room (meaning: get more channels or fewer? should be more I assume). No matter. I declined having an installer bring the box -- intending to pick it up at the CCast office and hook it up myself.

It would seem likely the box will be recycled (could be a move out / shut off / return / etc.) in unknown state of readiness / repair. It might be flawless (he said, feeling lucky) or glitchy (causing it to have been turned in).

Reading here prompted mixed feelings. If the box is trouble, at least an installer would have a chance of recognizing that, and could swap out boxes. On the other hand, if firmware loads over night, and it can take (48) hours to receive all data, how would he (let alone I) know right away?

Maybe it's better to pay for a svc call later, if there are issues I can't remedy, rather than pay now, at install? Think I'll email the Wiki need to know sections to a print shop to have hard copy. Prolly do the same with the owners manual (strange to do so with 64xx series instead of 34xx series, since the 34 is what I'll receive).

I would appreciate any day-1 blank-slate suggestions.
Thanks in advance,
etchasketch

ps - so many have storage issues, loss of saved programming problems, I plan to install a splitter and DVD burner with tuner to save off the drive. Will read about STB-PC possibilities (and then ask lots of questions) :cool:

Can the 3416 display the current time in the LCD screen or only the channel?

Menu, Menu, Setup, Cable Box Setup, change LED Display to current time.

Menu, Menu, Setup, Cable Box Setup, change LED Display to current time.

Or Menu/Settings/Cable Box Options/Display Time on Box (put a check mark here)

(if you're fortunate enough to live in the State of Washington).

thanks!!

I believe I have the "HDMI/DVI" bug, but I wanted to have you guys confirm and see if there's any solution.

I have the 3416 (recently acquired after a couple years with the 6412) connected to my Westy LVM37-W3 via HDMI->DVI cable (from monoprice).

Recently, the F/W was upgraded to 16.20 (from 12.xx or something).

Now, whenever I shut down the *monitor* (note: the DVR stays on at all times), and then power the monitor back up, the screen is garbled snow (like I've lost cable or something). Sometimes swapping the tuners clears things up, sometimes going to live TV (if it was paused watching a recording) clears it up, but usually I have to power the DVR down (standby, not pulling the plug) and then power-back on. This clears it up and the picture resumes.

I'm assuming this is the standard bug, and there is no hope?

Why would powering the TV down with a DVI connection cause the signal to get lost?

Are there any recourses available?

Thanks!

Rgds,

jwehman

I believe I have the "HDMI/DVI" bug, but I wanted to have you guys confirm and see if there's any solution.

I have the 3416 (recently acquired after a couple years with the 6412) connected to my Westy LVM37-W3 via HDMI->DVI cable (from monoprice).

Recently, the F/W was upgraded to 16.20 (from 12.xx or something).

Now, whenever I shut down the *monitor* (note: the DVR stays on at all times), and then power the monitor back up, the screen is garbled snow (like I've lost cable or something). Sometimes swapping the tuners clears things up, sometimes going to live TV (if it was paused watching a recording) clears it up, but usually I have to power the DVR down (standby, not pulling the plug) and then power-back on. This clears it up and the picture resumes.

I'm assuming this is the standard bug, and there is no hope?

Why would powering the TV down with a DVI connection cause the signal to get lost?

Are there any recourses available?

Thanks!

Rgds,

jwehman

This has hit many of us. One easier workaround if either side of the dvi cable is accessible is just unplugging it and replugging. At least that won't cancel any recording going on.

Scanpa: Is there new firmware being tested to fix this?

Forgive me for my ignorance, but I'm new to all of this.

I just purchased a 42" LCD TV, using it with a Comcast 3416 DVR box. I am told, and plan to, connect the TV to box via a HDMI cable.

My current set up is with a standard tube TV, and I will "upgrading" to the above set up.

I know I need to make some changes to the settings on the cable box and have some options on the TV side as well.

Can I ask for some guidance and instruction on a "migration" path.

Don't know if this belongs in this forum or the LCD one, so sorry for the cross post.

Thanks for the help.

Or Menu/Settings/Cable Box Options/Display Time on Box (put a check mark here) (if you're fortunate enough to live in the State of Washington).

Or unfortunate, as the case may be - I'd sure trade this for skip forward capability...

Or unfortunate, as the case may be - I'd sure trade this for skip forward capability...

The capability to display the time isn't unique to Washington, but there are other benefits. Other than the obvious natural wonders, we can also eliminate unwanted channels from the guide display.

Or unfortunate, as the case may be - I'd sure trade this for skip forward capability...


There is a quick way to program a 30 second skip. I found it on Wiki books regarding the 34xx. VERY handy little feature. Let google be your friend.

There is a quick way to program a 30 second skip. I found it on Wiki books regarding the 34xx. VERY handy little feature. Let google be your friend.


But the 30 second skip doesn't work in Washington under the Microsoft software. I think that is what Opus was talking about.

I swapped my 6412 phase II box for a 3416 at the local Comcast office today.

All of the non-HD channels look really bad (fuzzy, blotchy artifacts) on the digital output (HDMI) connected directly to my 50" Fujitsu plasma display's DVI input via an HDMI to DVI adapter. The component video output looks fine. The HD channels look fine on either HDMI or component. This was not the case with the 6412--SD channels looked fine on the digital output.

Has anyone else had problems with the new 3416 boxes with digital output on SD channels? I did a lot of playing around with the menu options on the box (the ones seen when you press 'Menu' while the box is off), but perhaps I didn't hit the magic combination yet.

I'd appreciate any feedback on this issue.

I swapped my 6412 phase II box for a 3416 at the local Comcast office today.

All of the non-HD channels look really bad (fuzzy, blotchy artifacts) on the digital output (HDMI) connected directly to my 50" Fujitsu plasma display's DVI input via an HDMI to DVI adapter. The component video output looks fine. The HD channels look fine on either HDMI or component. This was not the case with the 6412--SD channels looked fine on the digital output.

Has anyone else had problems with the new 3416 boxes with digital output on SD channels? I did a lot of playing around with the menu options on the box (the ones seen when you press 'Menu' while the box is off), but perhaps I didn't hit the magic combination yet.

I'd appreciate any feedback on this issue.

3416---HDMI---) Yamaha 2700 -------HDMI ------) RCA HD TV

My SD looks really good but my receiver upscales the picture to 1080i.

I swapped my 6412 phase II box for a 3416 at the local Comcast office today.

All of the non-HD channels look really bad (fuzzy, blotchy artifacts) on the digital output (HDMI) connected directly to my 50" Fujitsu plasma display's DVI input via an HDMI to DVI adapter. The component video output looks fine. The HD channels look fine on either HDMI or component. This was not the case with the 6412--SD channels looked fine on the digital output.

Has anyone else had problems with the new 3416 boxes with digital output on SD channels? I did a lot of playing around with the menu options on the box (the ones seen when you press 'Menu' while the box is off), but perhaps I didn't hit the magic combination yet.

I'd appreciate any feedback on this issue.

I'm having the same problem with the 3416 SD channels and my Toshiba Regza (42LZ196) 42 inch LCD. I'm running component cables, and have tried running a separate S-Video cable to see if there was any improvement on SD (none noted) (found suggestion via search). HD channels look impressive.

I'm assuming I would not have any improvement with HDMI cables. I was able to improve the picture quality slightly by adjusting the tv contrast, backlighting, brightness, etc.

Since not all the channels aren't HD (like the Golf Channel :D ), it's a disappointment with the Comcast box. I haven't tried satellite yet.........

I've tried most of the menu settings and this what I've found to work best so far:

TV Type: 16:9
HDMI/YPbPr Output: 720p
4:3 OVERRIDE: 480i
HDMI/DVI MODE: HDMI

PQ of SD stations with these settings is far worse than it was on the 6412. I see a considerable number of video artifacts that make the picture almost unwatchable on the HDMI output. The worst looks like a series of vertical rectangles that move up and down the screen.

Component is much better--I don't see any of the artifacts I do on the HDMI output.

I know that there's a Record over firewire to XP thread, but I haven't made it through all of it and so far what I've read discusses just "duplicate" recording with Media Center (HD over firewire and SD thru media center). However, my case is that I've already made the HD recordings, and I just want to move them from the DVR to my PC. Has anyone here done this with their 3412? If so, what did you use?

Thanks,
kli

whew, what a gi-normous forum topic! You folks are prodigious posters! Seemed wrong to blurt out questions without making a best-effort to learn about the hardware / software first (confession: I started reading from late 2...........



Yeah... being a moderator on several boards, I still have yet to figure out WHY in the world they keep each system in it's own thread. Makes for more difficult searching and more importantly; people just trying to read and learn have to skim through the questions that get repeated over and over. At least with each thread having it's own subject, you can bypass most of this and find answers A LOT faster.

For those that will argue that you would also need to scroll through threads NOT pertaining to your system... then all the admins needs to do is setup sub-forums for each system. On VBulletin, this would take all of 2-3 minutes...

MomentaryLapse: guess either way it can cause issues, 6 of one, half-a-dozen ...

Funny, I have also done host duty (for longer than I care to remember).

Now about those questions ;)

e

I know that there's a Record over firewire to XP thread, but I haven't made it through all of it and so far what I've read discusses just "duplicate" recording with Media Center (HD over firewire and SD thru media center). However, my case is that I've already made the HD recordings, and I just want to move them from the DVR to my PC. Has anyone here done this with their 3412? If so, what did you use?

Thanks,
kli

You cannot extract the files from the 3412. The best you can do is replay the programs and export the resulting data stream, as with the firewire technique.

You cannot extract the files from the 3412. The best you can do is replay the programs and export the resulting data stream, as with the firewire technique.

ah ic... so i guess there's no pvrexplorer type program for the moto boxes like there is for the directv boxes. sad.

in any case, so is it correct to assume that replaying and exporting the data stream is a realtime process (i.e. 1hr of video takes 1 hr to transfer/copy/export), and that there's no conversion of the datastream at all (basically I'm just concerned about any loss in quality)?

thanks again,
kli

...is it correct to assume that replaying and exporting the data stream is a realtime process (i.e. 1hr of video takes 1 hr to transfer/copy/export), and that there's no conversion of the datastream at all (basically I'm just concerned about any loss in quality)?...

It is a realtime process. As for conversion, there's no conversion of the original signal to the data stored on the box, but there will definitely be conversion from that to the data that ends up in the external device. After that, there will be further time required to postprocess the data for output to a DVD, unless it is fed directly to a DVD writer.

[QUOTE=scanpa]set your comcast remote to always control the tv when a VOL +/- mute button is pressed.

see this page:



Got it! Thanks!

.....Rather, I'm fighting the latest bug introduced with the latest Firmware 16.20 (the DVR mistakenly reports it is 100% Full). I hope it gets addressed with an eventual F/W update. :( ..........

I have also encounterd this bug. And to make it worse almost missed Heroes on Monday night because of it. :mad:

I reset per the wiki-book instructions, we'll see if that fixes the problem.

What REALLY makes me mad is that I went out of my way to call Comcast and report the problem and spent an agonizing 15 minutes on the phone with three different reps trying to find a way to simply REPORT the problem. Ultimately they said all they can do is swap out the box. GREAT, but it'll have the same firware, so where does that get me??? I just wanted to report the problem so they are aware how pervasive it is. Doesn't someone track all of these reports? Do I really have to go through the fruitless excercise of exchanging my box just so that I can be counted among the many who've experienced the 100% full bug??

oh well, let's hope resetting it fixes the problem. Sorry, I just had to vent somewhere :p

Hey all, curious what you find as the best settings to use?

16:9- 720p? 1080i?
4:3- 480i? 480p? Stretch?

I ask because I am using 1080i and sometimes see a tiny bit of tearing in high action, fast scenes.
Now trying 720p to see if this stops the issue
I hear some HD channels are broadcast in 720p(ESPN) and others in 1080i.

What do you find looks the best on your set.
TY very much for your responses.

Hey all, curious what you find as the best settings to use?

16:9- 720p? 1080i?
4:3- 480i? 480p? Stretch?

I ask because I am using 1080i and sometimes see a tiny bit of tearing in high action, fast scenes.
Now trying 720p to see if this stops the issue
I hear some HD channels are broadcast in 720p(ESPN) and others in 1080i.

What do you find looks the best on your set.
TY very much for your responses.

I see a minor improvement if I switch to 720p output on the Moto3412 during football games that are broadcast in 720p. I use STRETCH because I do not want vertical lines burned into my set. It looks weird for a few days but then you don't even notice it.

I see a minor improvement if I switch to 720p output on the Moto3412 during football games that are broadcast in 720p. I use STRETCH because I do not want vertical lines burned into my set. It looks weird for a few days but then you don't even notice it.

And since basketballs then look like footballs, you get to extend the NFL season.

I just installed a Comcast Motorola DCT3416I with dual tuners. Does anyone know the specs on this DVR. Motorola web site does not have this product listed. I have question about attaching Motorola digital audio outputs to a Harmon/Kardon AVR 310. I tried connecting 3416 with digital optical audio output jacks to AVR310 and got no sound. I tried to adjust setting to stereo. and digital I was able to connect analog audio cables with sound but no surround sound signal. Does anyone one know if it is possible to get digital output. This receiver is about 6 years old.

See the Wiki: http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR

Hey all, curious what you find as the best settings to use?

16:9- 720p? 1080i?
4:3- 480i? 480p? Stretch?

I ask because I am using 1080i and sometimes see a tiny bit of tearing in high action, fast scenes.
Now trying 720p to see if this stops the issue
I hear some HD channels are broadcast in 720p(ESPN) and others in 1080i.

What do you find looks the best on your set.
TY very much for your responses.

If I could set it the way I wanted (i.e., if the software wasn't so limiting), I'd set it to output the following:
480i or 480p material: 720p
720p material: 720p
1080i material: 1080i

The box seems to do a better job than my TV of upconverting SD material, but your TV might be better at it than mine (in which case, I'd set 4:3 override to "480i"). My TV, OTOH, does a better job of downconverting 1080i material to its native 1366X768.

With the software the way it is, I have it set to output 1080i with 4:3 override "off" (which means, also output SD channels upconverted to 1080i). I will change the setting to 720p if I'm going to watch a show in 720p (i.e., a show on or recorded from ABC, Fox, ESPN or ESPN 2), so long as the box isn't currently recording anything (because you have to shut it off to change the setting. :mad:). When I'm done, I'll change it back to 1080i.

TY very much aindik, very informative.

Anyone else have tearing or streaking with HD channels and find one setting better than the other?
Also, is there an easy way to find out which HD channels are broadcast in 720p and 1080i?
TY very much.

I just installed a Comcast Motorola DCT3416I with dual tuners. Does anyone know the specs on this DVR. Motorola web site does not have this product listed. I have question about attaching Motorola digital audio outputs to a Harmon/Kardon AVR 310. I tried connecting 3416 with digital optical audio output jacks to AVR310 and got no sound. I tried to adjust setting to stereo. and digital I was able to connect analog audio cables with sound but no surround sound signal. Does anyone one know if it is possible to get digital output. This receiver is about 6 years old.My digital audio is hooked up to a H/K AVR-325, so my input may or may not be relevant. I recently exchanged my 3412 for a couple 3416s and started having more audio glitches. Sometimes the only fix is to hit the power button on the remote to turn the 3416 off and then back on and the audio comes back. Other times all I have to do is press the "Live" button or "Pause" the show to get the audio and video to synch up (this usually fixes things when the video goes black as well) and all is well again.

It's probably the box. See if a power cycle gets your audio "working" again.

Also, is there an easy way to find out which HD channels are broadcast in 720p and 1080i?


720p - ABC, ESPN HD, ESPN2 HD, FOX, My Network TV, select local FSN, National Geographic HD
1080i - Everything else

From this thread:
http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=419472

There is a quick way to program a 30 second skip. I found it on Wiki books regarding the 34xx. VERY handy little feature. Let google be your friend.

Not in Washington state. And search is my friend, couldn't care less about Google...

Yeah... being a moderator on several boards, I still have yet to figure out WHY in the world they keep each system in it's own thread. Makes for more difficult searching and more importantly; people just trying to read and learn have to skim through the questions that get repeated over and over. At least with each thread having it's own subject, you can bypass most of this and find answers A LOT faster.

Or better yet, switch the whole thing to a newsgroup. These web forums are a giant step backward from Usenet...

Hey all, curious what you find as the best settings to use?

16:9- 720p? 1080i?
4:3- 480i? 480p? Stretch?

I ask because I am using 1080i and sometimes see a tiny bit of tearing in high action, fast scenes.
Now trying 720p to see if this stops the issue
I hear some HD channels are broadcast in 720p(ESPN) and others in 1080i.

What do you find looks the best on your set.
TY very much for your responses.

The simple answer is to try all, and see which looks best.

The real answer depends on your TV set. I have a 720p DLP set, so I output at 720p. If I had a 1080p DLP set, I would output at 1080i. If I had some other kind of a set that was 1080i natural, I would output at 1080i. I hate stretch, and DLP can't burn in, so I don't use it.

As to 4x3 override, I use component cables, so I don't need to override to get a picture, like with some DVI and HDMI. If I did use it anyway, then I couldn't "ZOOM" to make a letterboxed 4x3 picture fill the screen. So, I don't use the override.

TY very much aindik, very informative.

Anyone else have tearing or streaking with HD channels and find one setting better than the other?
Also, is there an easy way to find out which HD channels are broadcast in 720p and 1080i?
TY very much.

Tune in to the respective channel. Use your TV remote. Press "recall". The resolution should display. Your "recall" button may have a different name so it might be helpful to refer to your owners manual.

Tune in to the respective channel. Use your TV remote. Press "recall". The resolution should display. Your "recall" button may have a different name so it might be helpful to refer to your owners manual.

That will only tell you what the cable box is outputting (your setting), rather than what the original signal was.

That will only tell you what the cable box is outputting (your setting), rather than what the original signal was.

Now you have me confused. And thats not saying much :) . If the STB is set to output 480i, 480p, 720p & 1080i then the display is determined by..

1)The station eg. ESPN @ 720p, HBOHD @ 1080i
2)Your TV.

Even if the station broadcasts @ 1080i and your STB is set to output all resolutions, if you have a TV that only does 720p that thats whats displayed in this example.

Right?

So in relation to the posters question above....

If the STB is set to output all resolutions and the TV can handle 1080i then the TV "recall" button should display the transmitted resolution.

Set me straight if I have got it all wrong :confused:

Thanks

Now you have me confused. And thats not saying much :) . If the STB is set to output 480i, 480p, 720p & 1080i then the display is determined by..

1)The station eg. ESPN @ 720p, HBOHD @ 1080i
2)Your TV.

Even if the station broadcasts @ 1080i and your STB is set to output all resolutions, if you have a TV that only does 720p that thats whats displayed in this example.

Right?

So in relation to the posters question above....

If the STB is set to output all resolutions and the TV can handle 1080i then the TV "recall" button should display the transmitted resolution.

Set me straight if I have got it all wrong :confused:

Thanks

At least for my TV, the display of info as to resolution is determined by the output of the STB to the TV. It isn't logical for the TV to know what the original resolution output by the station was, if all it sees is the output of the STB.

Now you have me confused. And thats not saying much :) . If the STB is set to output 480i, 480p, 720p & 1080i then the display is determined by..

1)The station eg. ESPN @ 720p, HBOHD @ 1080i
2)Your TV.

Even if the station broadcasts @ 1080i and your STB is set to output all resolutions, if you have a TV that only does 720p that thats whats displayed in this example.

Right?

So in relation to the posters question above....

If the STB is set to output all resolutions and the TV can handle 1080i then the TV "recall" button should display the transmitted resolution.

Set me straight if I have got it all wrong :confused:

Thanks

Your TV will tell you the resolution of the signal it is getting. If your cable box is set to output 1080i, your TV will report it is receiving 1080i. But it will report 1080i regardless of whether the channel was originally broadcast in 1080i or not.

If this STB (that is the subject of this thread) had an option to output the native resolution of the channel no matter what it is, your TV would report that resolution. However, the STB does not have that option. It will not switch between 1080i and 720p when you change channels. You need to pick 1080i or 720p in a menu (which requires the box to be off to access :mad: ), and every HD channel will be sent in your chosen resolution, whether it has to be converted by the box to get there or not. (Based on a different setting, non-HD channels will either be sent in your chosen HD resolution, or in 480i or 480p).

Your TV will not know if it is receiving a 1080i signal that was broadcast in 1080i, a 1080i signal that was converted from 720p by the box, or a 1080i signal that was converted from 480i by the box.

If your TV has a QAM tuner, it will tell you the actual resolution of the programming when you change the channel. But, of course, that won't work for programming that isn't available in the clear.

At least for my TV, the display of info as to resolution is determined by the output of the STB to the TV. It isn't logical for the TV to know what the original resolution output by the station was, if all it sees is the output of the STB.

Agreed. I think we are saying the same thing.

Put another way.

You set your STB to output all resolutions. Your TV can handle 1080i. You tune into a station that broadcasts @ 720p. You press "recall" on your TVs remote. What resolution is displayed? On my set it displays 720p.

Another example.

You have a HDTV with a built in ATSC tuner that is capable of 1080i. You receive OTA-HD. Some local channels broadcast in 720p and some in 1080i. You tune into a channel that broadcasts in 720p. You press the TVs "recall" button and it displays the resolution broadcasted (720p in this example).

Ah ha!!
Here in lies my confusion..

You need to pick 1080i or 720p in a menu (which requires the box to be off to access ), and every HD channel will be sent in your chosen resolution, whether it has to be converted by the box to get there or not.

My STB allows me to choose ALL resolutions so my TV does display the "native resolution".

How does SAP work on the 34xx line? Is it always recorded with an option on playback, or is at an option at record time?

Where do you trigger the option? If the sound is coming through the a/v cables, it couldn't be at the TV.

My STB allows me to choose ALL resolutions so my TV does display the "native resolution".
Which STB do you have?
I have the 3416 and that is NOT an option for me as well as most I believe.

I have been lurking in your thread. I have a Motorola Moxi BMC9022 HD-DVR. I like it but Charter cable is phasing it out for ..you guessed it....3416.

From what I have read I see that the 3416 does not have the external HDD capabilities. Is this because Comcast has not enabled this or is it related to a firmware update that Motorola has not released?

In the case of the Moxi. A 4.1 firmware update has been released that enables an external HDD BUT the cable company (Charter) has not released it!! Arghhh

I have been lurking in your thread. I have a Motorola Moxi BMC9022 HD-DVR. I like it but Charter cable is phasing it out for ..you guessed it....3416.

From what I have read I see that the 3416 does not have the external HDD capabilities. Is this because Comcast has not enabled this or is it related to a firmware update that Motorola has not released?

In the case of the Moxi. A 4.1 firmware update has been released that enables an external HDD BUT the cable company (Charter) has not released it!! Arghhh

Comcast has not authorized external HDD.

I went to the Comcast Store and asked if any type of external storage was supported on the Motorola DCT 3416 and the answer was no. I was told that customers have used eSATA and USB external drives successfully but the customer service representative couldn't be more specific. I attempted to hook up my USB external drive I already have with no luck. Does anyone know how either an eSATA or USB drive can be utilized? Can an external firewire drive be used? In my online research it was indicated that firewire ports on DVR's must be activated.

I went to the Comcast Store and asked if any type of external storage was supported on the Motorola DCT 3416 and the answer was no. I was told that customers have used eSATA and USB external drives successfully but the customer service representative couldn't be more specific. I attempted to hook up my USB external drive I already have with no luck. Does anyone know how either an eSATA or USB drive can be utilized? Can an external firewire drive be used? In my online research it was indicated that firewire ports on DVR's must be activated.

SATA or USB -- No. The ports aren't even active, except for the USB providing power for things like laptop fans. (So much for your CSR.)

Firewire -- Yes.
See the Wiki: http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR/Firewire

(I don't know what you mean by "must be activated." No activation is required, as far as I have heard.)

For the second time within 3-4 weeks, my 3416 has 'lost' my recorded programs. The first time it occurred the unit appeared to 'lock up', reset and at that point all of the recorded programs were gone. The program guide then began downloading.

Talking with a CSR resulted in a full reset from their end, which did not cause the recorded materials to become accessible again. I did a full reset factory reset and that did not resolve the problem. At that point, I decided the recorded program were truly 'gone'.

This evening I checked on the 3416 and again all of the recorded programs are no longer there. The unit was powered down Monday night to rearrange some equipment, but I did am fairly certain that all of the recorded programs were still available after it was powered back up. For at least 2-3 months prior to both of these occurrences, the 3416 worked with no problems at all. I also have a Phase II 6412, which has been in use for over a year without any problems during that time.

At this point, I am going to exchange the unit tomorrow or Friday, but I wonder has anyone else encountered this issue and, if so, was there any way to regain access to the recorded materials.

web

SATA or USB -- No. The ports aren't even active, except for the USB providing power for things like laptop fans. (So much for your CSR.)

Firewire -- Yes.
See the Wiki: http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR/Firewire

(I don't know what you mean by "must be activated." No activation is required, as far as I have heard.)

correct me if I'm wrong, but I I don't believe the 34.. has a firewire output. I wish it did, because then I could presumably use my JVC 30000K for archiving the rare thing that is worth keeping...

correct me if I'm wrong, but I I don't believe the 34.. has a firewire output. I wish it did, because then I could presumably use my JVC 30000K for archiving the rare thing that is worth keeping...

Firewire port is on the back and is req to work.

Firewire port is on the back and is req to work.

ah, yes, but now I think I remember....the 34.. may be outputting something, but there is no way to get the JVC to record it, because it expects to be controlled from the DVR

have I got that right?

ah, yes, but now I think I remember....the 34.. may be outputting something, but there is no way to get the JVC to record it, because it expects to be controlled from the DVR

have I got that right?

No, wrong again. You're the one who must control it, by playing the recorded program. I don't know what your JVC expects, but the 34xx and 64xx both output data streams via firewire.

so is there any way possible to simply expand the hard drive?

so is there any way possible to simply expand the hard drive?

Not that anyone has figured out. Since it's just a rental, I wouldn't advise opening it up to try.

I think that someone in Canada put a larger hard drive in the DVR successfully. In Canada you are legally allowed to purchase a DVR and have the cable co. activate it. I don't remember how they did it. Perhaps they imaged the 120 GB drive to a 300 GB, then used a linux based disk utility to extend the partitions.

I'd be afraid to try it on a rental DVR. Who knows if theres some kind of interlock on it that can tell the cable co. you opened your box.

correct me if I'm wrong, but I I don't believe the 34.. has a firewire output. I wish it did, because then I could presumably use my JVC 30000K for archiving the rare thing that is worth keeping...
My 3412 has two firewire connectors on the back.

No, wrong again. You're the one who must control it, by playing the recorded program. I don't know what your JVC expects, but the 34xx and 64xx both output data streams via firewire.

The JVC, I believe, needs to have its RECORDING of the firewire signal to be turned on by the DVR...otherwise it won't look at the AV stream...

So even if the 3412 is putting out the data on firewire, the JVC will only use it if it's told to do so via control from the device that's putting out the data. For example, the LG 3410a HD receiver/recorder will do this...

I tried to search the thread but there were no results for "anamorphic".

Do you get anamorphic video over S-video with this DVR? I know there is a Pan&Scan option and a Letterbox option, but I am not sure if it is possible to have Anamorphic 16:9 480i output over S-video??? Thanks...

I am trying to test my dvd recorder's ability to record anamorphic. The recorder has S-video input (but no component/HDMI inputs). I will be using a 4:3 TV.

Anyone have any idea when they will fix this issue. I cant run a hdmi cable to my receiver. The moto box is the only one in my house that doesn't work with it. I have a tivo3, playstation3, toshiba hda1, samsung bdp1000 and they all work great via hdmi into my receiver.

I am sick of this blue screen message that comes up from the comcast moto3412 box saying to use component instead. I want a pure digital connection like the box is supposed to do.

I feel for all you guys having HDMI problems. It was PnP for me, as it should be.

HDCP issues are not the only HDMI-related problems with the 341x boxes. Digital output from the box on SD channels is crap compared to the component output. It's much worse on the 3416 than it was on the 6412 phase II that I had before.

I'm not talking about minor, barely visible, differences, but easily seen artifacts that make the HDMI output virtually unwatchable.

HDCP issues are not the only HDMI-related problems with the 341x boxes. Digital output from the box on SD channels is crap compared to the component output. It's much worse on the 3416 than it was on the 6412 phase II that I had before.

I'm not talking about minor, barely visible, differences, but easily seen artifacts that make the HDMI output virtually unwatchable.

You may be in the minority as my 3416 is HDMI all the way and the SD picture is as good as the TV's tuner and possibly better.

What settings are you using? I've tried all combinations and some are better than others, but none are as good as the SD picture I was getting with the old 6412 phase II.

If I don't solve this soon I'm going to return the 3416 and get a Tivo S3 and a pair of cable cards.

I recorded Mr. and Mrs. Smith on HBO-HD on Sunday, when I was still getting free HBO service (i just got the dvr and i was getting all the premiums for a few days). Now when I try to watch the recording, it is just blank with no sound. However, I recorded the Ali-G Show on an HBO channel that is SD and I can still watch it. Is there a reason I can watch that and not the HD recording?

From the previous posts I have determined that the firewire port on the 34XX is active and the USB and SATA are not. Since the firewire ports on the 34XX are 6 pin, I would assume the format is firewire 400 and to hook up an external hard drive would have to be firewire 400 capatible. The link given above shows how to hook up a computer through the firewire port. Does it apply to an external firewire hard drive?

No. You cannot just hook up an external firewire drive to one of the ports and expect the 341x to use it as external storage. The firewire ports are only used to stream content out to devices such as computers and DVHS machines in real-time.

I recently got the Comcast DCT3416 I HD-DVR box and was wondering how you upgrade the firmware/software on it? The version I have seems pretty old according to wiki.

Plus I have a problem with the HDMI output on the cable box. The first time I connected it I got a blue screen saying something regarding using component cables and then went to a green screen. Now I'll get a picture for 2 seconds and then it goes to the green screen. I'm connecting the 3416 to my jvc rx-d702b receiver via HDMI and from the receiver to TV via HDMI cable. When I use component cables from the cable box to the receiver it works great. When I try to then use HDMI out of the cable box into the receiver I get the sound fine but get that green screen after 2 seconds. Anyone been through this or know about a fix? Please help?!?! :-(

Danny

I recently got the Comcast DCT3416 I HD-DVR box and was wondering how you upgrade the firmware/software on it? The version I have seems pretty old according to wiki.

Plus I have a problem with the HDMI output on the cable box. The first time I connected it I got a blue screen saying something regarding using component cables and then went to a green screen. Now I'll get a picture for 2 seconds and then it goes to the green screen. I'm connecting the 3416 to my jvc rx-d702b receiver via HDMI and from the receiver to TV via HDMI cable. When I use component cables from the cable box to the receiver it works great. When I try to then use HDMI out of the cable box into the receiver I get the sound fine but get that green screen after 2 seconds. Anyone been through this or know about a fix? Please help?!?! :-(

Danny

Does your receiver require you to change the input from the 3416 to HDMI?

Does your receiver require you to change the input from the 3416 to HDMI?
Yeah ... and I can tell I've got it set right because I get sound via the HDMI cable along with video for 2 seconds before the screen goes green.

I recently got the Comcast DCT3416 I HD-DVR box and was wondering how you upgrade the firmware/software on it? The version I have seems pretty old according to wiki.
Firmware/software revisions are totally under the control of your local Comcast office. They will update it when their own hardware and software is ready. Also, some areas require minor tweaking and option adjustments that can take time.


Plus I have a problem with the HDMI output on the cable box. The first time I connected it I got a blue screen saying something regarding using component cables and then went to a green screen. Now I'll get a picture for 2 seconds and then it goes to the green screen. I'm connecting the 3416 to my jvc rx-d702b receiver via HDMI and from the receiver to TV via HDMI cable. When I use component cables from the cable box to the receiver it works great. When I try to then use HDMI out of the cable box into the receiver I get the sound fine but get that green screen after 2 seconds. Anyone been through this or know about a fix? Please help?!?! :-(
The 34xx/64xx do not handle HDMI repeaters very well, if at all. Some work, some don't. Some depend on the firmware revision of the box. Some depend on the alignment of the planets.
Does HDMI work from the box to the TV directly? If so, try that and compare it against the component connection and see if there is enough of a difference to complain about.

There is a setting under advanced HDMI settings for color:

The default is something like 4:4:4

And there is another option for "RGB" (not the default).

How do you know which one to choose?

Which would be correct under what circumstances?

Firmware/software revisions are totally under the control of your local Comcast office. They will update it when their own hardware and software is ready. Also, some areas require minor tweaking and option adjustments that can take time.


The 34xx/64xx do not handle HDMI repeaters very well, if at all. Some work, some don't. Some depend on the firmware revision of the box. Some depend on the alignment of the planets.
Does HDMI work from the box to the TV directly? If so, try that and compare it against the component connection and see if there is enough of a difference to complain about.
The HDMI connection does work from the box to the TV. Just not from the box to the receiver for some reason. If I send it from the box to the TV won't the sound also go direct to the TV as well? Don't know if there is a way to only send video out of the HDMI to TV and sound to my receiver via the SPDIF digital connection so I can utilize the 5.1 theater setup I have. :-(

Don't know if there is a way to only send video out of the HDMI to TV and sound to my receiver via the SPDIF digital connection so I can utilize the 5.1 theater setup I have. :-(

If it's like the other outputs from these boxes they're all active at once, so have you tried hooking it up that way?

If it's like the other outputs from these boxes they're all active at once, so have you tried hooking it up that way?
I thought I had but now that I'm thinking about it I may not have tried that. I'll try it and see what happens. Just kind of a pain to have to work it that way. Thank god for my Logitech Harmony remote!

I have a TV with only a single DVI input. I have a 3416 DVR and a DVD Recorder with HDMI output (no DVI). My solution is a Gefen RMT2-IR HD DVI Switcher. The only problem I have is it takes at least three times switching from input one to two to get a picture from the DVD Recorder. The DVD Recorder displays a signal error message the second time I try and switch inputs on the Switcher. On the third try I get the picture up. I use fiber cable for sound into my receiver. My receiver only has component video switching. I use HDMI to DVI cables from the source into the switcher.

I thought I had but now that I'm thinking about it I may not have tried that. I'll try it and see what happens. Just kind of a pain to have to work it that way. Thank god for my Logitech Harmony remote!

I've always done it this way, the only difference being that I use DVI which of course doesn't carry any audio. With the Harmony setup you should be able to specify all of the various inputs and which device controls the volume.

I've always done it this way, the only difference being that I use DVI which of course doesn't carry any audio. With the Harmony setup you should be able to specify all of the various inputs and which device controls the volume.
Yeah ... I can basically have any kind of setup between my TV, receiver and cable box and the harmony remote knows how to handle everything. It's the best $70 I've ever spent!!!

I just got a Motorola 3412 from Comcast in Blaine, WA, and have several questions. Is there any way to use the SATA port on the rear of the box to add an additional external hard drive so we can store additional High Def programming? If that isn't possible, can this port be used to transfer some of the recorded Hi-Def shows we already have?
I am also wondering what can be done with the Cat-5 connection on the back - if I hook it up to our home network, can I access the DVR from a networked PC? Can I use it to show slideshows of pictures from my PC via the DVR (think that is what we do with our old TiVO Series 2.) Any info would be appreciated. I have been unable to locate a USER GUIDE for this Motorola DVR Model 3412.
Thanks!! :confused:

The JVC, I believe, needs to have its RECORDING of the firewire signal to be turned on by the DVR...otherwise it won't look at the AV stream...

So even if the 3412 is putting out the data on firewire, the JVC will only use it if it's told to do so via control from the device that's putting out the data. For example, the LG 3410a HD receiver/recorder will do this...


ON my JVC 40k you can record directly but it's hit and miss. You can use the channel up/down button to select the firewire inputs. They show up as I-3, I-4 and so on. the only problem is they float. One time the I-3 may be your tuner and I-4 may be the cable box the next time you record they are switched so you have to do test recording each time. This is my experience with the JVC 40k anyway. It works best using the interface from the tuner.



Steve

Yeah ... I can basically have any kind of setup between my TV, receiver and cable box and the harmony remote knows how to handle everything. It's the best $70 I've ever spent!!!

What is the model number of this remote?

The HDMI connection does work from the box to the TV. Just not from the box to the receiver for some reason. If I send it from the box to the TV won't the sound also go direct to the TV as well? Don't know if there is a way to only send video out of the HDMI to TV and sound to my receiver via the SPDIF digital connection so I can utilize the 5.1 theater setup I have. :-(

Yes, HDMI from box to TV as you say. Then mute the TV's internal speakers (from the TV 's menu), and connect the audio out of the box to your AVR via SPDIF or coax, just as you describe. This is the standard procedure.

I have an older analog tuner/capture card in my computer and have been successfully archiving via the S-Video output connection from the back of my 3412 to my PC hard drive. Granted, my computor does not capture in HD, but it is still handy to archive bits and pieces (or entire programs) in an MPEG-1 or MPEG-2 format on my computer's hard drive.

I have not yet found any programming that would not copy via S-Video. Everything I've tried on all channels copies nicely so far.

Questions: Is this normal? And, if I upgrade my computer's tuner/capture card to a newer digital tuner video card like the ATI All-in-Wonder X800 XT, will I be prevented from continued archiving to MPEG formats via the 3412's S-Video Out during real-time viewing or playback?

All this talk about protection flags and firewire has me a bit confused. :confused:

Thanks!

logitech harmony 550. It's got a USB port on it that allows you to login to logitech's site to download settings for all your units.

logitech harmony 550. It's got a USB port on it that allows you to login to logitech's site to download settings for all your units.

All of the Harmony remotes are programmed the same way using their web interface. Very easy to do the basic setup by just answering questions on your equipment and which inputs are being used. We use 3 of them in our house and they all work great. Depending on how fussy you are the fine tuning can get a little tricky, but their customer support is excellent and can basically handle anything if you run into any issues on your own. Before you buy check the available models on their website for the button layout, appearance and features.

anyone else having problems with firewire recording audio sync from their 3416's?

i had a JVC DVHS deck in the shop (a JVC 5U) and while it was being fixed I got a new cable box, the 3416 to replace my 6412.

Anyway, I can record video via firewire just fine with no apparent glitches but no matter what I do I get out of sync audio. I try re-cuing it up, starting over, pretty much nothing gets the audio in sync.

anyone else come across this problem ? my current firmware is 16.20. Even with its smaller hard drive I am missing my 6412 and the glitch-free recording days....

oleus

I recently got the Comcast DCT3416 I HD-DVR box and was wondering how you upgrade the firmware/software on it? The version I have seems pretty old according to wiki.

Plus I have a problem with the HDMI output on the cable box. The first time I connected it I got a blue screen saying something regarding using component cables and then went to a green screen. Now I'll get a picture for 2 seconds and then it goes to the green screen. I'm connecting the 3416 to my jvc rx-d702b receiver via HDMI and from the receiver to TV via HDMI cable. When I use component cables from the cable box to the receiver it works great. When I try to then use HDMI out of the cable box into the receiver I get the sound fine but get that green screen after 2 seconds. Anyone been through this or know about a fix? Please help?!?! :-(

Danny

I have the same receiver as you. Actually I have the 412b. Its weird. When I had the 12.35 firmware on my moto box my lumagen scaler wouldn't work with it until I had them hit my box with 12.31 firwmware. Now that I don't have my scaler connected and bought my reciever the reciever doesn't work with the moto box, but it does with every thing else via hdmi. Another thing about this moto box is it doesn't give you an option to send out pcm via spdif. Only does it on the hdmi connection. Sound sucks on uhd and some of the other hd channels. My tivo3 gave me the option and sounds great on all channels. I really hate to fork out another $600 for another stable box. Oh well.

Anyone know if the 3416 is any different internally other than the HDD?

All of the Harmony remotes are programmed the same way using their web interface. Very easy to do the basic setup by just answering questions on your equipment and which inputs are being used. We use 3 of them in our house and they all work great. Depending on how fussy you are the fine tuning can get a little tricky, but their customer support is excellent and can basically handle anything if you run into any issues on your own. Before you buy check the available models on their website for the button layout, appearance and features.
Yeah ... that's exactly how all the logitech remotes work. And if you don't have one ... you need one!!!

Yes, HDMI from box to TV as you say. Then mute the TV's internal speakers (from the TV 's menu), and connect the audio out of the box to your AVR via SPDIF or coax, just as you describe. This is the standard procedure.
Well ... this option worked for me. I now have SPDIF going to my receiver for digital sound with the HDMI out of the cable box going to my 2nd HDMI input on the TV. Thanks for your tips on getting this setup!!!

Only drawback is I hate to use up my TV's second HDMI like that (eventually plan on having PS3 at some point) but I was easily able to change my logitech remote to correctly choose the right HDMI input whenever I want to watch TV. Back in business I guess. If any of you guys successfully get the 3416 connected into a JVC RX-D702B receiver via HDMI let me know. I'd much prefer that option since it's much cleaner.

I have the same receiver as you. Actually I have the 412b. Its weird. When I had the 12.35 firmware on my moto box my lumagen scaler wouldn't work with it until I had them hit my box with 12.31 firwmware. Now that I don't have my scaler connected and bought my reciever the reciever doesn't work with the moto box, but it does with every thing else via hdmi. Another thing about this moto box is it doesn't give you an option to send out pcm via spdif. Only does it on the hdmi connection. Sound sucks on uhd and some of the other hd channels. My tivo3 gave me the option and sounds great on all channels. I really hate to fork out another $600 for another stable box. Oh well.

Anyone know if the 3416 is any different internally other than the HDD?
K ... this may be a dumb question but I'm still a novice in certain areas of home theater setup. What other options are available besides PCM when using a digital connection and why would PCM be better?

I just got a Motorola 3412 from Comcast in Blaine, WA, and have several questions. Is there any way to use the SATA port on the rear of the box to add an additional external hard drive so we can store additional High Def programming? If that isn't possible, can this port be used to transfer some of the recorded Hi-Def shows we already have?
I am also wondering what can be done with the Cat-5 connection on the back - if I hook it up to our home network, can I access the DVR from a networked PC? Can I use it to show slideshows of pictures from my PC via the DVR (think that is what we do with our old TiVO Series 2.) Any info would be appreciated. I have been unable to locate a USER GUIDE for this Motorola DVR Model 3412.
Thanks!! :confused:

1. The SATA port is nonfunctional, and there is no way to add an external drive, or to transfer the files from the 3412 other than by playing them back and capturing the data stream via firewire.

2. There is no way to network the DVR.

3. The best reference is this Wikipedia article:
http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR

Well ... this option worked for me. I now have SPDIF going to my receiver for digital sound with the HDMI out of the cable box going to my 2nd HDMI input on the TV. Thanks for your tips on getting this setup!!!

Only drawback is I hate to use up my TV's second HDMI like that (eventually plan on having PS3 at some point) but I was easily able to change my logitech remote to correctly choose the right HDMI input whenever I want to watch TV. Back in business I guess. If any of you guys successfully get the 3416 connected into a JVC RX-D702B receiver via HDMI let me know. I'd much prefer that option since it's much cleaner.

To save HDMI inputs to your tv, check out the HDMI switches on monoprice.com. I have the 2-to-1 manual switch, ~ $40 IRRC. [There are 4-to-1 switches for somewhat more $.] I send the HDMI from my dvd player (Pio 59avi) and the HDMI from the 3416 Comcast dvr to it, and the (single) HDMI out of it to the tv. [I have the small switch sitting right on my dvd player and simply push the manual button on it when I put the disc into the player.] I use the second HDMI input on my tv (Mits 73727) for my laptop.

I just got a DCT3416I box and have it hooked up to my TV via HDMI. When I hook up either the digital optical or coaxial cable to my AVR Yamaha HTR-5850 I can not get any sound. I have tried several things and still no sound. I can get analog sound just not digital. Am I missing some thing here...is there a audio out setting on the moto box?

I just got a DCT3416I box and have it hooked up to my TV via HDMI. When I hook up either the digital optical or coaxial cable to my AVR Yamaha HTR-5850 I can not get any sound. I have tried several things and still no sound. I can get analog sound just not digital. Am I missing some thing here...is there a audio out setting on the moto box?

Yes. Go to the Moto's audio set-up and choose 'matrix' rather than 'stereo'.

How do I get to the moto's setup? I have turned the power off then hit menu and it took me to a white screen w/ black letters, but there was no audio set-up selection.

Yes. Go to the Moto's audio set-up and choose 'matrix' rather than 'stereo'.


I have also accessed the audio setup by hitting menu->settings->audio options and I have the following to choose from:

Compression
->none
->meduim
->heavy

Audio output
->mono
->stereo
->sur sound

There is no matrix selection.

Is the 3146I the newest box out? Just got one today to replace my 6412 Phase II

I have also accessed the audio setup by hitting menu->settings->audio options and I have the following to choose from:

Compression
->none
->meduim
->heavy

Audio output
->mono
->stereo
->sur sound

There is no matrix selection.

On the remote, click 'Menu'; from there to the leftmost icon, 'Main Menu' and click it. Move around to 'Set Up' and click it. Move down to 'Audio Setup' and click it. Move down to 'Audio Output' and set it on 'Advanced'. Move futher down to 'Stereo Output' and set it to 'Matrix'. This should do it.

On the remote, click 'Menu'; from there to the leftmost icon, 'Main Menu' and click it. Move around to 'Set Up' and click it. Move down to 'Audio Setup' and click it. Move down to 'Audio Output' and set it on 'Advanced'. Move futher down to 'Stereo Output' and set it to 'Matrix'. This should do it.

Unfortunatly, my menu is not configured like that. I don't have a 'main menu' icon. I did figure out that i had older firmware on my box so i am currently updating that. Thanks for the quick responses though...you gave me some hope and this forum has given me some good info. once my download is complete i will try your advice (hopefully my menu will look like you describe) and get back to you. thanks again!

On the remote, click 'Menu'; from there to the leftmost icon, 'Main Menu' and click it. Move around to 'Set Up' and click it. Move down to 'Audio Setup' and click it. Move down to 'Audio Output' and set it on 'Advanced'. Move futher down to 'Stereo Output' and set it to 'Matrix'. This should do it.

Comcast must have the box locked. I can't seem to update the firmware. The version i have is 12.35. I was trying to update to 16.20...no go. Any other suggestions? I suppose i can take the box in and get a new one. It seems I have tried everything already. No matter what i have the AVR set to (i.e. auto digital or analog) I still get nothing, not a sound. Only when I have the L/R RCAs hooked up do I get any sound. And I know the AVR works becasue I had the DVD hooked up to each digital port and it works fine.
The menu you have described...i wonder which box and firmware version produces that menu? Mine looks nothing like that...No main menu, advanced, or matrix selections. Thanks anyway.

Yes. Go to the Moto's audio set-up and choose 'matrix' rather than 'stereo'.

Sorry guys, but those audio pref. settings only affect analog outs, not the digital outs.

The SATA port is nonfunctional, and there is no way to add an external drive, or to transfer the files from the 3412 other than by playing them back and capturing the data stream via firewire.

You could run component out from the 3412 to a DVDR @ 480i and archive to a HDD or burn to disc also

Sorry guys, but those audio pref. settings only affect analog outs, not the digital outs.

Hmmm; if you say so. In any event, I connect my 3416 to my AVR via a digital optical cable (SPDIF), and to my tv via HDMI; and I get 5.1 audio.

Hmmm; if you say so. In any event, I connect my 3416 to my AVR via a digital optical cable (SPDIF), and to my tv via HDMI; and I get 5.1 audio.

What is your firmware version? It seems we have different onscreen menus. So you must have a different version.

Comcast must have the box locked. I can't seem to update the firmware.

You can't update the firmware on your own. Comcast will push updates to customers when they feel like it.

Sorry if I'm rehashing old stuff.. i've looked though the posts and cant see the answer i need....

I have recently got a 3412 from Comcast and want to Record Tv/ transfer files using my PC - vista (RC1 with MCE) I have connected the firewire cable and downloaded the firewire drivers successfully but windows is not recognizing/ installing the 3412 drivers.

anyone know where i can get the drivers as endless searches have produced no luck for me

Thanks in advance

Shaun

Hmmm; if you say so. In any event, I connect my 3416 to my AVR via a digital optical cable (SPDIF), and to my tv via HDMI; and I get 5.1 audio.

I have SPDIF and Component video to my Denon AVR, DVI direct to the TV, and I get 5.1 audio just fine on the AVR, so I don't doubt you. I actually have two sets of component, and two sets of S-Vid, with line audios to the TV, and almost all ins and out on the Denon used up! Too much equip! I don't doubt that yours works properly.

The only menu on the Moto that can affect digital audio out is in the service setup menu. I have DVI selected in that, not HDMI. I don't really think so, but possibly when you select HDMI it disables other digital outs in some firmware version?

But, I am certain that the audio selections in the regular set up menu only affect line analog outs. If you have them hooked up as well, switch to listen through them, maybe by passing the 3416 signal to your VCR, or DVDR, if you have one, and listening to that, so it would HAVE to be analog. Then, switch back and forth between heavy compression, and no compression. You will hear a huge change in the volume. Try the same thing while listening to the 3416's digital outs. You will NOT hear such a volume change.

I just got a (Cox) Moto DCT-3416 DVR. It didn't come with a genuine operators manual, only some rinky dink Cox user guide. I checked Motorola web site for a PDF download on the 3416 but found nothing. Does a real operators manual exist for this box?

The 3416 is basically a 6416 without the analog tuners. The 12's and the 16's just relate the size of the hard drive. You can get all you need, manual wise, at this website. Click on the + sign for "User Guides."

http://broadband.motorola.com/dvr/dct6412.asp

anyone else having problems with firewire recording audio sync from their 3416's?

i had a JVC DVHS deck in the shop (a JVC 5U) and while it was being fixed I got a new cable box, the 3416 to replace my 6412.

Anyway, I can record video via firewire just fine with no apparent glitches but no matter what I do I get out of sync audio. I try re-cuing it up, starting over, pretty much nothing gets the audio in sync.

anyone else come across this problem ? my current firmware is 16.20. Even with its smaller hard drive I am missing my 6412 and the glitch-free recording days....

oleus

Yes - I ran into the exact problem when I changed from a 6412 to a 3416 though I am using a Mitsubishi DVHS deck. The only solution I've found to work was to physically unplug the 3416, re-establish the firewire connection and then record. Because of the time it takes to restore the guide data, I usually will make several firewire recordings once I do the the hard power reset. I've learned to not try making recordings without doing this as they would usually have the audio synch problem. Good luck!

Yeah ... that's exactly how all the logitech remotes work. And if you don't have one ... you need one!!!

If you don't have one, you need a URC MX-850, not a Logitech. The MX-850 is much better than any Harmony remote.

anyone else having problems with firewire recording audio sync from their 3416's?

i had a JVC DVHS deck in the shop (a JVC 5U) and while it was being fixed I got a new cable box, the 3416 to replace my 6412.

Anyway, I can record video via firewire just fine with no apparent glitches but no matter what I do I get out of sync audio. I try re-cuing it up, starting over, pretty much nothing gets the audio in sync.

anyone else come across this problem ? my current firmware is 16.20. Even with its smaller hard drive I am missing my 6412 and the glitch-free recording days....

oleusInteresting. I have two 3416s and don't get the out-of-sync audio on either of them when recording/capturing from the firewire. However, no matter what I hook up to the firewire, it always "breaks" the FF & REW transport functions. Not in that they don't work at all, but that FF4 and REW4 only move about a minute forward or backward in the program stream every 15-30 seconds, making it only slightly less than impossible to navigate a program. Only a power cycle (cold boot) fixes that problem and it occurs 100% of the time. All those cold boots can't be good for the box.

Last Friday I picked up and self installed the moto dct3416. Comcast provided what looks to be a new box (though it's hard to say how you can tell whether new or recycled). Included were all the standard cables. I used a Monoprice HDMI-HDMI into my LG 37lc2d DVI-HDMI port, booted the moto, and the handshake occurred with no problem.

Though some find the UI cumbersome v Tivo, IMO it has been pretty user friendly. Most features have been discovered through experimentation, though I did print hard copies of the 64xx manual, guide manual and wiki.

Last night I easily managed dual tuner recording / playback. Next on to a few macros (thanks to those who built the wiki). Then comes fun with remotes, and deciding on a DVD recorder or transfer via firewire to computer.

To those who fret it's beyond them, just do it. Some others (here) encouraged me to do this myself instead of pay for install and I'm glad I did. Thanks alles!

etch

just be paitent for another month or two, and you can get your Comcast DVR box upgraded to TiVo software:

http://www.engadget.com/2007/01/09/comcast-dvr-with-tivo-pics-features/


http://ces.engadget.com/2007/01/08/comcast-showing-off-tivo-powered-dvr/

Interesting. I have two 3416s and don't get the out-of-sync audio on either of them when recording/capturing from the firewire. However, no matter what I hook up to the firewire, it always "breaks" the FF & REW transport functions. Not in that they don't work at all, but that FF4 and REW4 only move about a minute forward or backward in the program stream every 15-30 seconds, making it only slightly less than impossible to navigate a program. Only a power cycle (cold boot) fixes that problem and it occurs 100% of the time. All those cold boots can't be good for the box.

For the record, I have the exact same problem. Otherwise, the unit works great for capture.

dunno Dave, I'm a newB, but a posted comment expressed my first blush sentiment:

Once you've learned the current interface - who cares? - it's not that hard

I don't think I'd pay any extra for this

On the other hand, if it keeps those who miss the Tivo UI happy, well, good all round.

methinks by mid 2007 the Emperor has new clothes ...

etch

I have a 6412 and a 3416 comcast dvr..

I notice when I goto the IGUIDE menu I have a small tv picture
(in the top right corner of the menu) only on the 6412.

On the 3416, when I goto the Iguide menu, I see the whole tv picture
behind the iguide and just the top right corner of the large tv picture
whereas on the 6412 i have a smaller fully viewable tv picture in the corner of
the screen..

Does anyone else notice that their 3416 doesn't show the small tv
(live) picture when in the Iguide?

Does anyone else notice that their 3416 doesn't show the small tv
(live) picture when in the Iguide?


Nope. My 3416 gives me the entire TV picture in the upper right corner.

I have a 6412 and a 3416 comcast dvr..

I notice when I goto the IGUIDE menu I have a small tv picture
(in the top right corner of the menu) only on the 6412.

On the 3416, when I goto the Iguide menu, I see the whole tv picture
behind the iguide and just the top right corner of the large tv picture
whereas on the 6412 i have a smaller fully viewable tv picture in the corner of
the screen..

Does anyone else notice that their 3416 doesn't show the small tv
(live) picture when in the Iguide?

This came up a while ago in an earlier thread! I had the same problem, then someone posted the solution. It's a scaling issue that was introduced when the latest firmware update was uploaded and installed.

On your 3416, go into 'Menu-Setup-Screen Position Setup'. Click on the LEFT ARROW to move the picture to the left, just a couple of clicks. Exit the Menu and click on Guide. Is the mini picture scaled properly now? If not, go back into the 'Screen Position Menu' and click 1 more to the left. Repeat this process until the mini picture is scaled properly again! :D

Mark

Hmmm; if you say so. In any event, I connect my 3416 to my AVR via a digital optical cable (SPDIF), and to my tv via HDMI; and I get 5.1 audio.

I went down and got a new box. It works fine and it also has the lastest firmware. Thanks for the help!

just be paitent for another month or two, and you can get your Comcast DVR box upgraded to TiVo software:
http://www.engadget.com/2007/01/09/comcast-dvr-with-tivo-pics-features/
http://ces.engadget.com/2007/01/08/comcast-showing-off-tivo-powered-dvr/

Do you suppose that will fix the remote's lag-time problems?

Do you suppose that will fix the remote's lag-time problems?

It very well might, but I wouldn't even wait for that. Swap out your box. I had a VERY laggy 6412 Phase 2 that would often backlog remote presses for 15-30 seconds. I swapped it out for a new 3416 and haven't had any lag since.

If you don't have one, you need a URC MX-850, not a Logitech. The MX-850 is much better than any Harmony remote.

I've never liked the Harmony remotes, because of the button layout - not enough differentiation of the really important buttons. Looks like this one has that same problem?

just be paitent for another month or two, and you can get your Comcast DVR box upgraded to TiVo software:

http://www.engadget.com/2007/01/09/comcast-dvr-with-tivo-pics-features/


http://ces.engadget.com/2007/01/08/comcast-showing-off-tivo-powered-dvr/

Thanks for the posts! The first link is very nice in showcasing the new UI.

As far as the lag issues, if they are adding TiVo as an additional layer on top of everything else, it may be the same speed or slow things down even more. If not, it may be faster (or the same speed)? (this paragraph is a question, not a statement) :)

Thanks for the posts! The first link is very nice in showcasing the new UI.

As far as the lag issues, if they are adding TiVo as an additional layer on top of everything else, it may be the same speed or slow things down even more. If not, it may be faster (or the same speed)? (this paragraph is a question, not a statement) :)

Actually, I've heard it's a completely new OS, not an overlay.

Actually, I've heard it's a completely new OS, not an overlay.

If so, it might be worth having. If it's the same old Motorola firmware, then I anticipate the same old problems.

(Incidentally, where did you hear that?)

What I've heard is that the DVR software is completely replaced. It still relies on services of the box, such as interconnection with the IR receiver, etc.

I believe I have the "HDMI/DVI" bug, but I wanted to have you guys confirm and see if there's any solution.

I have the 3416 (recently acquired after a couple years with the 6412) connected to my Westy LVM37-W3 via HDMI->DVI cable (from monoprice).

Recently, the F/W was upgraded to 16.20 (from 12.xx or something).

Now, whenever I shut down the *monitor* (note: the DVR stays on at all times), and then power the monitor back up, the screen is garbled snow (like I've lost cable or something). Sometimes swapping the tuners clears things up, sometimes going to live TV (if it was paused watching a recording) clears it up, but usually I have to power the DVR down (standby, not pulling the plug) and then power-back on. This clears it up and the picture resumes.

I'm assuming this is the standard bug, and there is no hope?

Why would powering the TV down with a DVI connection cause the signal to get lost?

Are there any recourses available?

Thanks!

Rgds,

jwehman

Has Comcast shown any inclination to fix this? I have had the same problem, with 3 different model numbers -- 6412 PIII, 3412, and 3416. It's pretty ridiculous that we have to unplug and re-plug the hdmi cable every freakin' time we turn on the TV. I don't want to use component, because the HDMI picture is clearly superior to component in my experience with these boxes.

1. The SATA port is nonfunctional, and there is no way to add an external drive, or to transfer the files from the 3412 other than by playing them back and capturing the data stream via firewire.

2. There is no way to network the DVR.

3. The best reference is this Wikipedia article:
http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR

I had to try it and it works. Quick summary:

1. Computer: Macbook 2GHz Intel Core Duo, 1GB Ram
2. Cable Box: Motorola 3412
3. Download FireWireSDK23 from Apple
4. Connect Mac to Moto's left (facing rear) firewire port
5. The go to this website...
http://macteens.com/index.php/features/fullstory/how_to_make_your_own_home_theatre_mac_htmac/
...and follow the instructions best you can. The key pieces are AVCBrowser and VirtualDVHS
6. It wasn't easy but I eventually figured it out and recorded a 22 minute HD show off PBS
7. Resulting .m2t file was about 2.8gb
8. The Macbook just didn't have the horsepower to play back the file with VLC 0.8.5 well. Audio was fine, but video was jerky.
9. So I converted it to mp4 via iSquint, and quicktime player handled it fine

My conclusion:
You can capture HD video via a mac, but you need more processor speed than a 1st generation macbook to playback. It was fun to see if it was feasible nonetheless.

100 pages for the 3412/3416!

Has anyone read every single one of them? :)

100 pages for the 3412/3416!

Has anyone read every single one of them? :)

I have, and it's confirmed my opinion that the 341x is just as much a steaming pile of dog crap as the 641x series, if not more so.

I have, and it's confirmed my opinion that the 341x is just as much a steaming pile of dog crap as the 641x series, if not more so.

Jerry, don't sugar-coat it. Tell us how you REALLY feel!!! :p

Just to clarify, is the TIVO software still going to run on a Motorola box? Also, will the TIVO software be available with the new triple tuner boxes by Panasonic which are scheduled to be released sometime this year?

I have, and it's confirmed my opinion that the 341x is just as much a steaming pile of dog crap as the 641x series, if not more so.


Mine works like a champ. Maybe you need some help hooking it up.

Mine works like a champ. Maybe you need some help hooking it up.

Nope. It's hooked up just fine. Digital output on SD channels is horrible--even worse than the 6412 I used to have. And I still have the remote response issue where the box won't process any inputs from the remote for 20-30 seconds.

Just to clarify, is the TIVO software still going to run on a Motorola box? Also, will the TIVO software be available with the new triple tuner boxes by Panasonic which are scheduled to be released sometime this year?

Yes the Tivo software will be running on both the 64xx and 34xx series Moto boxes. The new Panasonic box is now believed to only contain "two" live TV tuners instead of three tuners sadly to say. Also this Panasonic box will get Tivo software but it will happen "after" the Moto boxes get it. Latest timeframe for the Panny boxes to get Tivo software is around late 2007 to early 2008 (about the sametime that Scientific Atlanta boxes get the Tivo software) so it will be a wait. But these Panasonic boxes will have the latest and I mean the latest version of iGuide which is dubbed the Java iGuide and I'm hearing this guide will be light years better than the latest version of iGuide available today.

I am reading this thread, and there are a lot of models with specific issues, and I am hoping I can get someone to help me out choosing a new Comcast Motorola box without issues. I recently got a Sony 46s2010 LCD and will be exchanging my old Comcast DVI HD Capable dual DVR box with usb/audio/video inputs in the front(maybe 6412 model?) for one with the HDMI connection. Which model # should I ask for? I would like a HD Capable Dual DVR box with the biggest hard drive for recording, the latest firmware, and hopefully no issues like unplugging the box or audio synchronization on channels. I plan to connect my Sony via HDMI directly to the Comcast box for now, and then will be using a monoPrice 3x1 HDMI switch box once I get a upconverting DVD player to connect to the Comcast box. My local Comcast has middle age to older ladies working at their office, and I don't think they will be much help unless I have a model # to give them. They basically told me to just to bring in my DVI box, and they can exchange it for one with the HDMI connection. How can I check the model number at their office when I make this exchange and also how do I know if it has the firmware on it that will hopefully make sure I have no issues? Is it better to ask/get a brand new box, or will I be stuck with whatever they give me? My office keeps the boxes in a cabinet right behind the window, and they are all piled up on top of each other. Finally how can I get a manual on these boxes? When I got my first Moto dct6208 black box 3 years ago, the Comcast installer gave me the user guide manual and a whole sealed bag of different cables in case I upgraded to HD, as it was a new box. But, the last 2 times I upgraded to the Moto DVR boxes, they had no manuals to give me and just used the cables they needed to connect my box.

Thanks for any help on this matter, and i will keep reading this long thread.

I am reading this thread, and there are a lot of models with specific issues, and I am hoping I can get someone to help me out choosing a new Comcast Motorola box without issues.

See this page. (http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR)

Thanks for that link Jerry.

So I guess from what I read I should want the 6412 phase III box for now. This way I can still receive analog channels via the HDMI connection. The 6416 has a bigger hard drive but I wouldn't get any analog channels. ??

The 6416 is identical to the 6412 except for the size of the drive. The 6416 has a 160 GB drive and the 6412 has a 120 GB drive.

The 341x boxes are the same as the 641x phase III boxes except that they don't have analog tuners. To use them, your cable system needs to support ADS (analog-digital simulcasting).