You could try unplugging the box and plugging it back in. That will wipe out your guide data and start repopulating it, which may trigger a loading of more data. You won't lose anything else. I've had times when the data got pretty low, but for the most part it maintains about 12 days.

You can tell how much data you have this way:

Menu
-Settings
--Cable Box Options
---Diagnostics
----EPG Files (5th line down)

Mine currently shows 27, which is the most I ever see, and takes me out to a week from next Sunday at 5PM.

I use Comcast's DVR for many of the same reasons mentioned earlier: Better PQ than satellite. I read a message yesterday relaying a member's experience with one of the satellite services, whereby their HD DVR will not record local channels. Comcast is very clearly a superior product, despite its significant room for improvement.

I use Comcast's DVR for many of the same reasons mentioned earlier: Better PQ than satellite. I read a message yesterday relaying a member's experience with one of the satellite services, whereby their HD DVR will not record local channels. Comcast is very clearly a superior product, despite its significant room for improvement.

Comcast's DVR is clearly an inferior product, at least with respect to its DVR functions (searching, FF and rewind, skip forward and back, slow motion, etc, etc)

Comcast's DVR is clearly an inferior product, at least with respect to its DVR functions (searching, FF and rewind, skip forward and back, slow motion, etc, etc)

Can't argue with that...I was spoiled by TIVO on Direct TV. However, the Comcast signal is significantly better than DTV, and not having to mess with a new (expensive) HD box, antenna, cables, contract, etc. made Comcast seem like a better deal to me. I was surprised how much degradation the MPEG compression affects the PQ on DTV when I did side-by-side comparisons. If I could get TIVO, all would be well again.....

I use Comcast's DVR for many of the same reasons mentioned earlier: Better PQ than satellite. I read a message yesterday relaying a member's experience with one of the satellite services, whereby their HD DVR will not record local channels. Comcast is very clearly a superior product, despite its significant room for improvement. Comcast's DVR is clearly an inferior product, at least with respect to its DVR functions (searching, FF and rewind, skip forward and back, slow motion, etc, etc)There are definitely things that can be improved in the Comcast HD DVR, but they are small concerns by comparison to things like PQ (and perhaps the inability to record local broadcasts). Overall, PQ is a trump card, which makes Comcast superior to all the alternatives. However, the best of all would be great HD TiVo, which can be connected to Comcast. Unfortunately, that's not (generally) available yet (but it is coming -- I'm not sure, though, that I'll want to spend $1000 oop to buy my own HD TiVo, so I'm rather hoping for Comcast's TiVo-software-driven DVR, which is currently in testing).

There are definitely things that can be improved in the Comcast HD DVR, but they are small concerns by comparison to things like PQ (and perhaps the inability to record local broadcasts). Overall, PQ is a trump card, which makes Comcast superior to all the alternatives. However, the best of all would be great HD TiVo, which can be connected to Comcast. Unfortunately, that's not (generally) available yet (but it is coming -- I'm not sure, though, that I'll want to spend $1000 oop to buy my own HD TiVo, so I'm rather hoping for Comcast's TiVo-software-driven DVR, which is currently in testing).

Is this true? I hadn't heard about this. When did Comcast and Tivo get in bed together? Seems like the dish companies and even other cable providers would be VERY resistant to such an alliance. But would be great for us lowly Comcast users.

Is this true? I hadn't heard about this. When did Comcast and Tivo get in bed together? Seems like the dish companies and even other cable providers would be VERY resistant to such an alliance. But would be great for us lowly Comcast users.

Check this thread in this forum...

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=682350

Is this true? I hadn't heard about this. When did Comcast and Tivo get in bed together? Seems like the dish companies and even other cable providers would be VERY resistant to such an alliance. But would be great for us lowly Comcast users.


Here's a thread: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=682350

Not sure what the status is at the moment, or when it will be available.

it is in beta test right now....

1. No HD-Lite from Comcast
2. Don't have to buy 2 Dual-Tuner HD-DVR's
3. No contracts
4. With digital simulcast, the SD channels are now passable

Everything you say about the 3412 is true (except the 30 sec. FWD skip which works on both of my 3412's). Just hoping that the TIVO interface will come soon - that should be a big improvement.

What is HD lite? on DISHnetwork HD is just amazing, also I don't know who can say that COmcast has better PQ on SD channels. My Dishnetwork was definetly superior.

I don't know how to operate the 30sec FWD. On my remote control I just have the backward function, unless it is a key that I don't know about.
Can you tell me more?

I don't know how to operate the 30sec FWD. On my remote control I just have the backward function, unless it is a key that I don't know about.
Can you tell me more?
Check out this link (http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR/Programming_the_Remote) for the 30 sec skip and a whole lot more.

What is HD lite? on DISHnetwork HD is just amazing, also I don't know who can say that COmcast has better PQ on SD channels. My Dishnetwork was definetly superior.It will vary from place to place I'm sure, but the what he meant by "HD lite" was that the satellite services generally compress HD while Comcast generally doesn't, so you get better PQ from Comcast. I've seen it myself, with my own eyes, though admittedly I was comparing a neighbor's Dish Network service to my own Comcast service, so it wasn't a normalized test. My equipment could be better than his (even though I paid a lot less).

Well, to be clear, they ALL compress it. It's just how much they compress it ;)

If we could convince everyone to go digital, there would be a lot more bandwidth available for better PQ HD or at least more channels. This will take an enormous amount of time however. Give it a few years and all will be good. Think how far computuers and cell phones have come in recent years. It will get there - and then we will be on to the next best thing.

Verizon is trying to ramp up their Fiber network to compete in this arena and that is a whole other option that IS coming (and is available in select areas now). Everyone will have Phone, TV, and Internet services someday - just using different ways to get the info.

If we could convince everyone to go digital...
I'm all about more HD channels and great PQ, but the thought of all digital make me cringe. I don't want a STB on all the tvs in my house. STBs are a PITA, not to mention that they kill PIP/POP.

Hi everybody,
The answer may already be buried in here, but I have been unable to find it clearly.

Are the other digital audio outs (electrical and optical) disabled on the 3412 when you are using HDMI?

Is there any way to fix it?

Thanks

Two more problems cropped up recently -

1. I'd be looking thru the scheduled recordings and see programs marked Conflict. But there was no indication of a conflict when I set the recording. So the box simply picks one of the programs and deletes it without notifying me. (There are no series scheduled, so that wasn't the problem).

2. It recorded a program, showed a recording time of 1:30, but when I hit Play, it hung for a few secs, then went straight to the End Of Program screen. I hit Start Over, same thing happened. It obviously hadn't recorded anything. Then I noticed a scheduled recording showed REC in the DVR screen, but there was no red recording light on the box.

What is HD lite? on DISHnetwork HD is just amazing, also I don't know who can say that COmcast has better PQ on SD channels. My Dishnetwork was definetly superior.
When I bought my HDTV, I ditched DirecTV and went with Comcast because of all the "HD lite" comments around here. And while I can't compare DirecTV HD with Comcast HD (I only had SD DirecTV), I can say for sure that the quality of Comcast's SD signals are FAR, FAR WORSE than DirecTV, at least for me.

I took out my old DirecTV Tivo, which records the streams right from the satellites, to watch a few things I had recorded long ago. The PQ on those old SD recordings was much more watchable than my new Comcast. A little blocky and pixelated at times, yes. But the PQ on SD from Comcast has a truly horrid kind of distortion in addition to the blockiness. My Comcast SD feeds produce this comb-looking distortion on horizontal edges, and it has a "ringing" (like a repeating) on vertical lines sometimes. It's hard to describe. Maybe I should take a picture of it. It's like repeated vertical lines, over and over and over again

-|-|-|-|-|-|-

Note: it looks kind of like interlacing problems, except it's obviously not that b/c the combs are vertical instead of horizontal.

Is this normal? It's pretty much the worst thing I've found since switching, including the horrible, buggy DVR. And that's saying a lot, because I really hate my 3412. I'm very tempted to go back to DirecTV, but I keep hoping that once I can get a Tivo Series 3, or the new Comcast Tivo whatever, whenever...

Hi everybody,
The answer may already be buried in here, but I have been unable to find it clearly.

Are the other digital audio outs (electrical and optical) disabled on the 3412 when you are using HDMI?

Is there any way to fix it?

Thanks


I do not think that they digital audio output are disabled. I have my 3412 hooked up using an HDMI to DVI adapted into the DVI input on my display. I have the optical digital audio output hooked up to my home theater receiver. Works great.

Well, to be clear, they ALL compress it. It's just how much they compress it ;)

See Ken H's post on a different thread here: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=7949819&&#post7949819

When I bought my HDTV, I ditched DirecTV and went with Comcast because of all the "HD lite" comments around here. And while I can't compare DirecTV HD with Comcast HD (I only had SD DirecTV), I can say for sure that the quality of Comcast's SD signals are FAR, FAR WORSE than DirecTV, at least for me.

I took out my old DirecTV Tivo, which records the streams right from the satellites, to watch a few things I had recorded long ago. The PQ on those old SD recordings was much more watchable than my new Comcast. A little blocky and pixelated at times, yes. But the PQ on SD from Comcast has a truly horrid kind of distortion in addition to the blockiness. My Comcast SD feeds produce this comb-looking distortion on horizontal edges, and it has a "ringing" (like a repeating) on vertical lines sometimes. It's hard to describe. Maybe I should take a picture of it. It's like repeated vertical lines, over and over and over again


It makes me wonder if Comcast SD broadcasting (and compression) varies by area. After switching to comcast in the area east of Seattle, I did some real-time comparisons between the (still active) Direct TV and Comcast. In all cases, the SD PQ on Comcast was superior. And, of course, all the local DT (non HD) broadcasts looked much better, as expected. I think the heavy MPEG compression on DTV played a role. My $0.02.

I have nothing to compare, but I find the local (SE PA) Comcast SD PQ to be very good. HD content converted to 480i seems to look marginally better, so perhaps it is possible to improve the SD picture, but then again, it may be the size and aspect ratio changes that create the illusion of the PQ being better.

Either way, I see no pixelation or imaging problems at all - excpet when I change channels and the 2-second time-lapse freezes the picture.

What is HD lite?

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/faq.php?faq=h#faq_new_faq_item

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HD_Lite

*edit: note that both DirecTV and Dish Network recompress and/or reduce resolution to some or all of their HD channels. DirecTV is far worse than Dish Network according to most sources.



I don't know who can say that COmcast has better PQ on SD channels. My Dishnetwork was definetly superior.


SD PQ will vary considerably from one cable system to another. Before digital simulcasting, the SD channels here were horrendous. Now, they are acceptable and comparable to what I previously had with D*. However, the HD PQ is far superior on Comcast. In the end, the HD PQ is by far the most important factor to me which provider I choose to use.

Two more problems cropped up recently -

1. I'd be looking thru the scheduled recordings and see programs marked Conflict. But there was no indication of a conflict when I set the recording. So the box simply picks one of the programs and deletes it without notifying me. To be fair, even the best devices don't notify the user when conflicts occur "later".

2. It recorded a program, showed a recording time of 1:30, but when I hit Play, it hung for a few secs, then went straight to the End Of Program screen. I hit Start Over, same thing happened. It obviously hadn't recorded anything. That's also possible, though similarly uncommon, on the best devices.

It makes me wonder if Comcast SD broadcasting (and compression) varies by area. This is almost surely the case, so what we can tell from that is that in the vast majority of areas Comcast PQ beats satellite, but not everywhere.

One thing I've noticed (I think): I have the same feed split, going into my Comcast HD DVR and into my TiVo Series 2 DVR. Most SD seems to be "better" coming out of the TiVo as compared to the HD DVR. This is almost surely due to scaling issues, right? The Comcast HD DVR is probably putting out 1080i, while the TiVo is probably putting out 480i. Perhaps the upscaler (?) in my television is better than the one in the Comcast HD DVR?

Does anyone have a problem where only certain HD channels will display and the others continue to say "Channel will be available shortly". I have comcast HD service via the Motorola DVR-3412 in the Southeast Michigan market. (3) HD channels will not display (WB-Digital), (INHD) and (INHD2). Comcast has reset the box remotely (2) times with no luck.

I live in Brighton, MI and could not get WB-D for the longest time and neither could one neighbor but another one could. It always displayed the same message you have. I had one tech out who couldn't figure it out, and I even swapped out several boxes with no luck. Luckily I was in the local office at the end of a shift swapping out like my 3rd box when a tech waiting to clock out overheard my problem and said it was because I still had an old HBO trap on my line. They don't need them anymore, but they never went around and removed all of them. So, they sent another guy out and he found the trap on the ariel drop that feeds me and my neighbors house and it fixed the problem.

Last night around 1:30 we were watching a recording on our 3412 (Comcast DC) when all of a sudden, it cut out. The front panel displayed "DL", for about 10 minutes, then "EF" (I think), then something else ("PD"? don't remember). I thought maybe it was the new iGuide upgrade. Then I turned it back on--no software upgrade, and *all* of our recordings AND season passes were wiped out.

Wasn't even hitting the remote when it happened, just watching.

Comcast says they weren't pushing out any upgrades, and are bringing a new box--anyone have any ideas? It's also curious given that just 24 hours previous our old Hughes DirecTivo gave up the ghost, now being in an infinite reboot loop. Power problem, maybe?

--jd

Last night around 1:30 we were watching a recording on our 3412 (Comcast DC) when all of a sudden, it cut out. The front panel displayed "DL", for about 10 minutes, then "EF" (I think), then something else ("PD"? don't remember). I thought maybe it was the new iGuide upgrade. Then I turned it back on--no software upgrade, and *all* of our recordings AND season passes were wiped out.
Comcast says they weren't pushing out any upgrades, and are bringing a new box
--jd

Yikes, that's pretty scary.

Comcast's answer to pretty much every problem is to replace the box. They don't appear to understand the concept of a DVR, that you might not wanna lose a few dozen hours of recorded programming by swapping boxes (obviously not an issue in this case, with everything already wiped out)

Originally Posted by opus312: I'd be looking thru the scheduled recordings and see programs marked Conflict. But there was no indication of a conflict when I set the recording. So the box simply picks one of the programs and deletes it without notifying me.

To be fair, even the best devices don't notify the user when conflicts occur "later".


Not sure what you mean. If I already have two programs scheduled to record at the same time, and I try to schedule a third program, shouldn't it immediately notify me of the conflict?

Is my 3412 broken all of a sudden?

Our 6412 was replaced by a 3412 a few weeks ago and I've been very impressed by the rapid transport functions. I depend on making a lot of captures via firewire, however, and I had noticed that a couple times (out of a hundred or so) recording via firewire would seem to "break" the transport functions. Not really a big deal, as a hard power cycle cleared it up EVERY time. Most of the time I could make as many captures as I wanted to with no affect on the transport functions.

Well, yesterday we had a power outage and last night when I set about making a few short captures via firewire, not only did the transport functions freeze up, but the picture filled up with multi-colored digital noise during the second capture. A cycle of power got the transport functions back, and I could connect up the firewire with no apparent degradation, but as soon as I had recorded a short segment, the transport functions "broke" again.

Numerous power cycles did nothing to change that behavior. Strangely enough, everything worked well each time until after a capture was started. Now - I could capture all day long as long as I didn't hit FF or REW, but any hits of FF or REW would completely lock up the transport and put a huge delay (20 to 30 seconds) on any attempted command. This was a permanent affect - firewire or not - until the power was cycled.

Anybody see this same behavior? There was no evidence of any of this behavior prior to the short power outage yesterday. Did my 3412 "break" from the power outage?

Thanks,

Tim

Is my 3412 broken all of a sudden?

Our 6412 was replaced by a 3412 a few weeks ago and I've been very impressed by the rapid transport functions. I depend on making a lot of captures via firewire, however, and I had noticed that a couple times (out of a hundred or so) recording via firewire would seem to "break" the transport functions. Not really a big deal, as a hard power cycle cleared it up EVERY time. Most of the time I could make as many captures as I wanted to with no affect on the transport functions.

Well, yesterday we had a power outage and last night when I set about making a few short captures via firewire, not only did the transport functions freeze up, but the picture filled up with multi-colored digital noise during the second capture. A cycle of power got the transport functions back, and I could connect up the firewire with no apparent degradation, but as soon as I had recorded a short segment, the transport functions "broke" again.

Numerous power cycles did nothing to change that behavior. Strangely enough, everything worked well each time until after a capture was started. Now - I could capture all day long as long as I didn't hit FF or REW, but any hits of FF or REW would completely lock up the transport and put a huge delay (20 to 30 seconds) on any attempted command. This was a permanent affect - firewire or not - until the power was cycled.

Anybody see this same behavior? There was no evidence of any of this behavior prior to the short power outage yesterday. Did my 3412 "break" from the power outage?

Thanks,

Tim


A phase 3 6412 with firmware 12.31 does the same thing in Omah Nebraska onCox Cable. That is a know bug in the firmware.


ajwees41

I do not think that they digital audio output are disabled. I have my 3412 hooked up using an HDMI to DVI adapted into the DVI input on my display. I have the optical digital audio output hooked up to my home theater receiver. Works great.


Yeah the Optical should work as it is the only way I know of to get 5.1 surround out of the 3212. I have mine hooked up direct to my A/V receiver and I use a Logitech Harmony remote to keep everything working smooth to my wife's great glee.

A phase 3 6412 with firmware 12.31 does the same thing in Omah Nebraska onCox Cable. That is a know bug in the firmware.


ajwees41Does that mean it's being worked on? Or just that a bunch of us know about it?

Yeah the Optical should work as it is the only way I know of to get 5.1 surround out of the 3212. I have mine hooked up direct to my A/V receiver and I use a Logitech Harmony remote to keep everything working smooth to my wife's great glee.

The optical output seems to work pretty well for 5.1. I also went to the Harmony to maintain "marital bliss"; it seems to do the job, mostly. I'm having a hard time figuring out how to get the audio input on my A/V system to switch. Mine is a little unusual, in that the Sony GA8ES Receiver uses an outboard Dolby decoder, a Sony EP9ES. It has several optical inputs, but they are switched with "left - right" buttons rather than being able to directly select the proper input -- the input on the main RCVR stays the same (5.1 input). I haven't hit on a combination that reliably gets me on the correct input.

Overal, though, I think it will be a good tool.

Not sure what you mean. If I already have two programs scheduled to record at the same time, and I try to schedule a third program, shouldn't it immediately notify me of the conflict?Sure, but if a program 's times change, so now three programs conflict with each other, then there won't be any notification.

Originally Posted by opus312
Not sure what you mean. If I already have two programs scheduled to record at the same time, and I try to schedule a third program, shouldn't it immediately notify me of the conflict?

Sure, but if a program 's times change, so now three programs conflict with each other, then there won't be any notification.

That's understandable, but unfortunately it's not what happened. There were no changes in program times, it simply added the third (conflicting) program with no notification.

Time to call Mulder and Scully.

Time to call Mulder and Scully.

Yup. Think they have a tollfree number? :)

I've only had the 3412 for about a week and haven't used it much. Last night I tried to watch a show that had been recording for about 40min but the sound output was disabled on the DVR. The video would play but no sound. I tried watching the show after it was done recording while a different show was recording but the sound was still disabled. After all schedule recordings were done I was able to watch the recorded shows with sound. I'm just using the analog audio outputs.

Is this expected behavior? I basically can't use the DVR while it's recording? That's very lame.

I also have experienced the video stuttering problems. It seems to happen when one tuner is on an HD channel and the other is on an SD channel. If I switch both tuners to the same channel the stuttering seems to stop.

I really don't like this DVR.

I've only had the 3412 for about a week and haven't used it much. Last night I tried to watch a show that had been recording for about 40min but the sound output was disabled on the DVR. The video would play but no sound. I tried watching the show after it was done recording while a different show was recording but the sound was still disabled. After all schedule recordings were done I was able to watch the recorded shows with sound. I'm just using the analog audio outputs.

Is this expected behavior? I basically can't use the DVR while it's recording? That's very lame.


Yes it's expected behavior. Don't ever turn the 3412 off and you won't have this problem.

There is also a way to program a button on the remote to toggle the 3412's mute function. Search the thread. It has been discussed many times.

Yes it's expected behavior. Don't ever turn the 3412 off and you won't have this problem.

There is also a way to program a button on the remote to toggle the 3412's mute function. Search the thread. It has been discussed many times.

Thanks for the tips.

i have a 3412 I w/ some sort of bug. Sometimes when i try to record two shows at once i get "you are scheduling a new recording that airs at the same time..." and i have to choose one or the other.

That often indicates that there is a third program also being recorded.

Here's a new one (for me, and apparently for Comcast) - everything's working fine, except I'm not receiving any of the Showtime channels. The "not subscribed" message does not appear, just a blank screen. They've tried sending signals to the box, and unsub-resub, nothing. They're sending a tech out tomorrow, but I talked to a supervisor who told me frankly, he's not sure what the tech can do other than swap out the box (which was just swapped out yesterday because of the same problem). They think it might be a signal issue, but it's hard for me to imagine a signal problem that wipes out only these 4 channels. Has anyone run into a problem like this?

Tried scheduling some recordings on my newly swapped-out box, kept getting conflicts, then discovered there were about 30 series scheduled, apparently by the previous lucky owner of this box. I guess Comcast doesn't even bother looking at returned boxes before they give them out, just dumps them in a pile for the next sucker....

Just this afternoon, I traded in my old 5100 for the 3412. It appears brand new, nicely shrink-wrapped. I haven't even set it up yet. I wanted to read some of the experiences you folks have had. When will these STB's get it right? Sounds like there's still a lot of room for improvement. I haven't read all 44 pages thus far, but I did read quite a few.

I haven't even set it up yet.

Set it up. Turn it on. Try it yourself. Don't turn it off at night.

They think it might be a signal issue, but it's hard for me to imagine a signal problem that wipes out only these 4 channels. Has anyone run into a problem like this?For me, it was Starz. They were broadcasting with such a weak signal to start with that it was the "weakest link" on the dial, so when my input signal strength dropped low enough, they were the first channels to show the problem.

Here's a new one (for me, and apparently for Comcast) - everything's working fine, except I'm not receiving any of the Showtime channels. The "not subscribed" message does not appear, just a blank screen. They've tried sending signals to the box, and unsub-resub, nothing. They're sending a tech out tomorrow, but I talked to a supervisor who told me frankly, he's not sure what the tech can do other than swap out the box (which was just swapped out yesterday because of the same problem). They think it might be a signal issue, but it's hard for me to imagine a signal problem that wipes out only these 4 channels. Has anyone run into a problem like this?
Remember that for digital channels, multiple channels are on the same frequency. It's possible one frequency was dead or too weak. There were probably other channels also dead, but either you didn't see them, or they are ones you don't have access to anyways.

For me, it was Starz. They were broadcasting with such a weak signal to start with that it was the "weakest link" on the dial, so when my input signal strength dropped low enough, they were the first channels to show the problem.

Thanks for the info. Does it mean anything that I can get Showtime on Demand, but not the regular Showtime channels? Probably the On Demand channels are coming in at a different frequency?

Here's another fun way to screw up your DVR schedule - run a search, hit Record, nothing happens (no red dot appears). So you hit Record again, and now it's added the program as a Series, which can create a blizzard of conflicts with previously scheduled programs.

Yeah lots of opportunities for improvement in the DVR software.

Showtime On Demand should work better than Showtime because, unless I'm mistaken, the signal for On Demand selections emminates from the head-end, rather than being a reflection of what's passed down from the satellite.

Yeah lots of opportunities for improvement in the DVR software.

Showtime On Demand should work better than Showtime because, unless I'm mistaken, the signal for On Demand selections emminates from the head-end, rather than being a reflection of what's passed down from the satellite.
I don't understand why that would make it work better.

i have a 3412 I w/ some sort of bug. Sometimes when i try to record two shows at once i get "you are scheduling a new recording that airs at the same time..." and i have to choose one or the other.I've seen that and I've also had times when I am recording one show and watching another and decide to try to change channels. A choice pops up for me to continue recording or to cancel my recording in order to change channels - as if it only has one tuner when I want to change channels but two as long as I don't change anything.

If it was recording more than one of the tuners I would be able to see it in "Scheduled Recording", but it only shows the one that's actually recording. I look for conflicts in an upcoming/overlapping time slot and there are none there either.

I see a lot more strange and weird behavior with the 3412 than I ever did with the 6412.

Tim

Can someone please assist me with this question:

Okay, let's say I'm currently using the 3412 DVR. However, let's say I'm also simply using a standard TV set, *not* HD. If I want to record HD material on the DVR in full HD quality, can I then play that material back through my SD set, and have it simply display a downconverted signal? A reason for this would be that I may soon get my HD set, and wouldn't mind having some things already in HD on the DVR to watch right away, but for the time-being, I'm using the set I already own.

I'm thinking if I record the footage in HD, that when I play it back the TV will simply display it in the capable resolution.

I know this used to work on the 6412, so I don't see why not on the 3412. The picture quality is noticeably better even without the HD set, although the image size is smaller with black bars all around the picture (even smaller yet if the program is in widescreen).

Here's a new one for this POS!

I was recently changing my series prioities - Now I have gaps in the list (ie: 1,2,3,7,9,12 13 etc.) and I cannot move priorties past these gaps.

Has anyone else had this problem - with a fix?

Thanks,

Art

Here's a new one for this POS!

I was recently changing my series prioities - Now I have gaps in the list (ie: 1,2,3,7,9,12 13 etc.) and I cannot move priorties past these gaps.

Has anyone else had this problem - with a fix?

Thanks,

Art

I had this problem, I also had duplicate numbered items on the list (two # 9's, two # 18's, etc..)

I called Comcast, they suggested I delete all the series recordings and create them again. This worked okay at first. Then when I added a couple new ones and deleted an old one, it was all messed up again. I gave up trying to figure it out. I end up recording most of my shows manually, or at least confirming that they are actually going to be recorded. I think sometimes I spend more time managing my recordings on this thing that I do actually watching it.

Anxiously waiting for Tivo/Comcast and/or S3 Tivo to come out..

What useful purpose is served by setting priorities?

If there is a recording conflict (ie: three programs scheduled to be recorded at the same time) the recording with the higher priority will be recorded.

If there is a recording conflict (ie: three programs scheduled to be recorded at the same time) the recording with the higher priority will be recorded.

I prefer simply to be informed of the conflict so that I can resolve it, and perhaps schedule another time for one of the conflicting programs to be recorded. Is the lower priority program simply forgotten about by the system, with no indication of there being a conflict?

I prefer simply to be informed of the conflict so that I can resolve it, and perhaps schedule another time for one of the conflicting programs to be recorded. Is the lower priority program simply forgotten about by the system, with no indication of there being a conflict?

This string has been an interesting read......having recently moved to Comcast from the Direct TV/TIVO world, it appears I have lots of "features" to learn about the DVR. Guess I'd better stick with manual for awhile...!

Here's a new one for this POS!

I was recently changing my series prioities - Now I have gaps in the list (ie: 1,2,3,7,9,12 13 etc.) and I cannot move priorties past these gaps.

Has anyone else had this problem - with a fix?

Thanks,

Art
It is a known issue that has been discussed several times. Once you have a gap in your list, you are screwed and must delete everything in your list. In the future, before deleting a series from the list, move it to the highest number (lowest priority) in your list, then delete it.

I prefer simply to be informed of the conflict so that I can resolve it
It will notify you if there is a conflict when you schedule a particular progam, but how would your cable box notify you when a future scheduling conflict arises?

Is the lower priority program simply forgotten about by the system, with no indication of there being a conflict?
I believe your cancelled recording will appear as a circle with a line through it instead of a red dot in the guide.

I've seen that and I've also had times when I am recording one show and watching another and decide to try to change channels. A choice pops up for me to continue recording or to cancel my recording in order to change channels - as if it only has one tuner when I want to change channels but two as long as I don't change anything.

If it was recording more than one of the tuners I would be able to see it in "Scheduled Recording", but it only shows the one that's actually recording. I look for conflicts in an upcoming/overlapping time slot and there are none there either.

I see a lot more strange and weird behavior with the 3412 than I ever did with the 6412.

Tim

When the problem you state occurs you are recording the channel you are watching and if you change channels you will interupt the recording. If you press the swap button on the remote you will switch to the other tuner you can then change the channel.

Set it up. Turn it on. Try it yourself. Don't turn it off at night.
Amen to not turning it off. You will have a lot less problems NEVER turn it off

It will notify you if there is a conflict when you schedule a particular progam, but how would your cable box notify you when a future scheduling conflict arises?

Perhaps it is a feature only available with the Microsoft guide s/w in WA State, but when any new conflicts occur I see them flagged in the list of scheduled recordings and am asked how I wish to resolve the conflicts. This will become evident about 10 days prior to the recording time in the case of upcoming series, so I have plenty of time to react.

Perhaps it is a feature only available with the Microsoft guide s/w in WA State, but when any new conflicts occur I see them flagged in the list of scheduled recordings and am asked how I wish to resolve the conflicts. This will become evident about 10 days prior to the recording time in the case of upcoming series, so I have plenty of time to react.
I think we also get the circle with a line through it in the scheduled recordings list.

Can someone please assist me with this question:

Okay, let's say I'm currently using the 3412 DVR. However, let's say I'm also simply using a standard TV set, *not* HD. If I want to record HD material on the DVR in full HD quality, can I then play that material back through my SD set, and have it simply display a downconverted signal? A reason for this would be that I may soon get my HD set, and wouldn't mind having some things already in HD on the DVR to watch right away, but for the time-being, I'm using the set I already own.

I'm thinking if I record the footage in HD, that when I play it back the TV will simply display it in the capable resolution.

Yes. The recording is always made at the original broadcast resolution (i.e., HD in your example). The playback can be set to the resolution that matches your current TV.

In other words, the resolution conversion is a playback function and does not affect the original recording.

I've seen that and I've also had times when I am recording one show and watching another and decide to try to change channels. A choice pops up for me to continue recording or to cancel my recording in order to change channels - as if it only has one tuner when I want to change channels but two as long as I don't change anything.

If it was recording more than one of the tuners I would be able to see it in "Scheduled Recording", but it only shows the one that's actually recording. I look for conflicts in an upcoming/overlapping time slot and there are none there either.

I see a lot more strange and weird behavior with the 3412 than I ever did with the 6412.

Tim
When the problem you state occurs you are recording the channel you are watching and if you change channels you will interupt the recording. If you press the swap button on the remote you will switch to the other tuner you can then change the channel.Not exactly. I am buffering the channel I am watching but it is usually NOT the one I am "recording". Regardless, I never had to do that with the 6412. The 6412 would always automatically use the tuner that wasn't in use to tune to my channel surfing selections, so I didn't even have the swap function programmed into my MX-700.

Is anybody using firewire out of the 3412 NOT having a problem with the FF and REW "breaking" once a recording (no matter how long or how short) has been made?

I'm growing quite weary of having to unplug and wait for the 3412 to reboot just to get it working again.

Tim

I don't understand why that would make it work better.Remember that the problem is that the signal is starting out weak, so once the signal gets to your equipment, it isn't strong enough to be decoded properly. So in the case of On Demand, it could be reaching the head-end just fine (it didn't have as far to be transmitted, eh?), and being stored there. Later, when you demand it, it is being transmitted by the head-end, presumably with a stronger signal than the original weak signal.

Here's a new one for this POS!

I was recently changing my series prioities - Now I have gaps in the list (ie: 1,2,3,7,9,12 13 etc.) and I cannot move priorties past these gaps.

Has anyone else had this problem - with a fix?
There are MAJOR bugs with the series list, especially if you move and delete from the list.

Generally, only move or delete ONE program at a time, and then do a CONFIRM. It's annoying going in and out of the menus all the time, but that seems to prevent some of these issues. If you move multiple items around and delete others without doing a CONFIRM after each one, it gets confused and mangles the list.

Remember that the problem is that the signal is starting out weak, so once the signal gets to your equipment, it isn't strong enough to be decoded properly. So in the case of On Demand, it could be reaching the head-end just fine (it didn't have as far to be transmitted, eh?), and being stored there. Later, when you demand it, it is being transmitted by the head-end, presumably with a stronger signal than the original weak signal.
What you are saying makes sense. But, if Comcast is doing their job, the signal levels leaving the head end should be the same for all channels/sources.

In our area, Comcast has great difficulties with non-linear attenuation distortion (a.k.a., inconsistent frequency response across the RF bandpass). It causes some channels to be received fine and others to be too low in level. It does not seem to matter whether the subscriber is using a Comcast STB or their own QAM tuner.

Our area was previously TCI, then AT&T and now Comcast. Hopefully other areas have better quality outside plant facilities.

Not exactly. I am buffering the channel I am watching but it is usually NOT the one I am "recording". Regardless, I never had to do that with the 6412. The 6412 would always automatically use the tuner that wasn't in use to tune to my channel surfing selections, so I didn't even have the swap function programmed into my MX-700.

The 3412 should work the same way as the 6412. The Microsoft guide s/w switches tuners automatically for either one, and there is no manual swap capability. I've not had this conflict happen with either one, unless there was an overlap of recordings (with one recording starting early while another was extending a bit). Even if consecutive programs are scheduled for recording on the same channel, they will use both tuners during the overlap period if nothing is recording on the second one.

I haven't had that problem with my 3412. Lord knows I've had every other one.

If it says "Rec" on the box, then that is the channel you are recording. Hit the SWAP button to go over to the other tuner. If SWAP doesn't work then you're probably due for a power cycle. That IS one of the symptoms that the box is about to lock up.

I've stopped using the FF/REW buttons entirely. They simply do not work.

If it says "Rec" on the box, then that is the channel you are recording. Hit the SWAP button to go over to the other tuner. If SWAP doesn't work then you're probably due for a power cycle. That IS one of the symptoms that the box is about to lock up.I've stopped using the FF/REW buttons entirely. They simply do not work.

Ok, now I'm confused. I don't see a Swap button, either on the box or on the remote.

As for FF/REW, I find they work great, as long as you have a few hours to kill while waiting for the box to get around to recognizing the remote's signal.

You obviously don't have the silver remote.....

Is anybody using firewire out of the 3412 NOT having a problem with the FF and REW "breaking" once a recording (no matter how long or how short) has been made?

I'm growing quite weary of having to unplug and wait for the 3412 to reboot just to get it working again.

Tim

this problem happens to me, but goes away when I turn the power back on my JVC 5U D-VHS -- i'm able to use the FF/RW when the D-VHS is turned back on, but not when it is off, after a firewire recording has been made. today, i experimented with turning off the D-VHS while I was using FF/RW on a program on the 3412, and the FF/RW kept on working after the D-VHS was shut off, and still is working after I stopped the program on my DVR and started any of my other programs. So perhaps the workaround is to make sure that the FF/RW is being used on the 3412 when you turn the power off on the D-VHS.

Ok, now I'm confused. I don't see a Swap button, either on the box or on the remote.

There's a swap button on the silver remote, the second tiny black button from the left in the row of four at the bottom, but since you have the Microsoft guide software it doesn't (and won't) do anything. Swapping is done automatically.

There's a swap button on the silver remote, the second tiny black button from the left in the row of four at the bottom, but since you have the Microsoft guide software it doesn't (and won't) do anything. Swapping is done automatically.

The DirecTivo's do this don't they? Automatically "swap"? I actually like being able to manually swap...that way I can pause one tuner, go to the second, and then come back to the first right where I paused it. Can this be done with the MS and/or DirecTivo software?

The DirecTivo's do this don't they? Automatically "swap"? I actually like being able to manually swap...that way I can pause one tuner, go to the second, and then come back to the first right where I paused it. Can this be done with the MS and/or DirecTivo software?

I don't know about the Tivo's.

There's no way to switch tuners manually with MSFT, except for switching between the one being recorded and the other one by selecting a channel, either by number or by using the "last" button. Unfortunately, doing this clears the buffer, so you cannot switch channels and retain the buffered content.

The DirecTivo's do this don't they? Automatically "swap"? I actually like being able to manually swap...that way I can pause one tuner, go to the second, and then come back to the first right where I paused it. Can this be done with the MS and/or DirecTivo software?
I do manual swaps with my DirecTiVo's often. The easiest way is to press the Live TV button while watching live TV on one of the tuners. It toggles you back and forth between the tuners. I watch one program, slightly behind real time so I can skip through commercials, and then I do the same on the other tuner, and so on.

The automatic swap on the TiVo is based on attempting a channel change from one where a recording is in progress. If the other tuner is not recording, the TiVo swaps tuners and tunes in the channel you were requesting, either via channel up/down or by direct channel number entry.

There is no way to accidentally abort a recording in progress without receiving a warning message. IMHO, this works flawlessly and the controls are intuitive.

Let's hope the same functions become available on the Comcast version.

There's a swap button on the silver remote, the second tiny black button from the left in the row of four at the bottom, but since you have the Microsoft guide software it doesn't (and won't) do anything.

Ahhh, thanks I found it. Might as well use it, since the other buttons on the remote, particularly FF/REW mostly don't do anything either, at least not in any useful time frame.

Shouldn't I be able to use the 3412 to play back recorded programs, without the RF in connection? Just tried this, nothing happened when I pushed My DVR button.

Shouldn't I be able to use the 3412 to play back recorded programs, without the RF in connection? Just tried this, nothing happened when I pushed My DVR button.

Just tried it again (with RF in connected), now getting message that DVR requires a subscription.

Here's the situation - I temporarily have 2 DVRs, because the first one was having recording issues. They gave me a new one, and let me keep the old one until I could record the hard drive onto DVD. But I don't seem to be able to do that. Not sure why it shouldn't operate as a hard drive DVDR without any connection to Comcast. Maybe I have to power off the new one first? Wanted to avoid that if possible...

Just tried it again (with RF in connected), now getting message that DVR requires a subscription.

Here's the situation - I temporarily have 2 DVRs, because the first one was having recording issues. They gave me a new one, and let me keep the old one until I could record the hard drive onto DVD. But I don't seem to be able to do that. Not sure why it shouldn't operate as a hard drive DVDR without any connection to Comcast. Maybe I have to power off the new one first? Wanted to avoid that if possible...


How are each hooked up to a tv?

ajwees41

Just tried it again (with RF in connected), now getting message that DVR requires a subscription.

Here's the situation - I temporarily have 2 DVRs, because the first one was having recording issues.
When your new box was activated, it effectively deactivated your old box (unless they told you both boxes would remain actively registered to your account, in which case they would probably have to double-charge you).

It would be like taking your dvr to your neighbor's house and trying to get it to work. It just doesn't work.

Just tried it again (with RF in connected), now getting message that DVR requires a subscription.

Here's the situation - I temporarily have 2 DVRs, because the first one was having recording issues. They gave me a new one, and let me keep the old one until I could record the hard drive onto DVD. But I don't seem to be able to do that. Not sure why it shouldn't operate as a hard drive DVDR without any connection to Comcast. Maybe I have to power off the new one first? Wanted to avoid that if possible...

For the Comcast Moto DCT STB to work, you must be connected to your Head End & have a valid subscription with the seriel number in your account. The STB must be able to talk to the Cable system.

This is normal.

When your new box was activated, it effectively deactivated your old box (unless they told you both boxes would remain actively registered to your account, in which case they would probably have to double-charge you).
It would be like taking your dvr to your neighbor's house and trying to get it to work. It just doesn't work.

Except that Comcast agreed to have me do this, then apparently deactivated the box so I can't do it. Why am I not surprised...

Guess it's time to call them. ugh ugh ugh

Just tried it again (with RF in connected), now getting message that DVR requires a subscription.

Here's the situation - I temporarily have 2 DVRs, because the first one was having recording issues. They gave me a new one, and let me keep the old one until I could record the hard drive onto DVD. But I don't seem to be able to do that. Not sure why it shouldn't operate as a hard drive DVDR without any connection to Comcast. Maybe I have to power off the new one first? Wanted to avoid that if possible...

The DVR has to be connected to Comcast in order to operate. I'm not sure, in your case, if you can swap them back and forth at will.

One more thing I miss from DTV/TIVO! I'll still take the better PQ, though.

vic

this problem happens to me, but goes away when I turn the power back on my JVC 5U D-VHS -- i'm able to use the FF/RW when the D-VHS is turned back on, but not when it is off, after a firewire recording has been made. today, i experimented with turning off the D-VHS while I was using FF/RW on a program on the 3412, and the FF/RW kept on working after the D-VHS was shut off, and still is working after I stopped the program on my DVR and started any of my other programs. So perhaps the workaround is to make sure that the FF/RW is being used on the 3412 when you turn the power off on the D-VHS.I tried hooking my JVC 40k back up and viola! - the DVR's FF/RW functions returned to normal without the cold reboot. I used to have occasional issues when both the PC and the 40k were on firewire simultaneously so I had gotten out of the habit of leaving the 40k on when capturing to PC. Tonight I'll give it a try with them both on and see what happens.

Thanks!

Tim

What you are saying makes sense. But, if Comcast is doing their job, the signal levels leaving the head end should be the same for all channels/sources.I don't believe that that is part of their job. Most folks don't want them messing with the incoming signal, anyway.

this problem happens to me, but goes away when I turn the power back on my JVC 5U D-VHS -- i'm able to use the FF/RW when the D-VHS is turned back on, but not when it is off, after a firewire recording has been made. today, i experimented with turning off the D-VHS while I was using FF/RW on a program on the 3412, and the FF/RW kept on working after the D-VHS was shut off, and still is working after I stopped the program on my DVR and started any of my other programs. So perhaps the workaround is to make sure that the FF/RW is being used on the 3412 when you turn the power off on the D-VHS.

Wow! I'm going to try this as well, this has been my #1 complaint of the box. I've almost resigned myself to its other shortcomings, but that was the one thing that really irked me.

Wow! I'm going to try this as well, this has been my #1 complaint of the box. I've almost resigned myself to its other shortcomings, but that was the one thing that really irked me.

I'm confused - is this a way to make the box more responsive to FF/REW?

I'm confused - is this a way to make the box more responsive to FF/REW?What it seems to have done for me is make it so my 3412's FF/REW doesn't break everytime I record via firewire. I'm not sure if it will correct a "broken" FF/REW that is caused by other factors.

I now have a lamp-style inline toggle switch on the 3412's power line. So I can reset it any time I want without having to climb behind the entertainment center! Hah.. what a joke this thing is. You'd think at least it would backup the guide data to the HDD, but nooooo.

I'm confused - is this a way to make the box more responsive to FF/REW?

I'm haven't experienced the FF/RW issues that have been discussed. I had to exchange a 3412 due to a failed DVR HD, but since installing the new one, all DVR functions work normally. I'm not using the firewire port, though. Sounds like maybe it's box-specific?

I'm haven't experienced the FF/RW issues that have been discussed.

Not even the delayed response from the box? Consider yourself blessed! :)

I'm haven't experienced the FF/RW issues that have been discussed. I had to exchange a 3412 due to a failed DVR HD, but since installing the new one, all DVR functions work normally. I'm not using the firewire port, though. Sounds like maybe it's box-specific?

The serious FF/REW problems are definitely related to use of the firewire, so I wouldn't expect you to experience them without using firewire. The sluggish responses, common to 3412 and 6412, don't seem to require use of firewire so consider yourself fortunate if you don't suffer from them.

The serious FF/REW problems are definitely related to use of the firewire, so I wouldn't expect you to experience them without using firewire. The sluggish responses, common to 3412 and 6412, don't seem to require use of firewire so consider yourself fortunate if you don't suffer from them.

I will.....guess I got a good one the 2nd time. As a new Comcast DVR user after quite a while with DTV TIVO, I find it responds pretty much the same. I'm aware of the scheduler issues, but the response to button commands has been OK.

I'm haven't experienced the FF/RW issues that have been discussed. I had to exchange a 3412 due to a failed DVR HD, but since installing the new one, all DVR functions work normally. I'm not using the firewire port, though. Sounds like maybe it's box-specific?


It only happens after a firewire capture to a pc.

ajwees41

I went through the sticky post on recording off the Firewire port of the Motorola DCT 3412, and managed to record something. But when I tried to record a subsequent time with CapDVHS, the fields (such as "size" and "aspect ratio") remain blank, and the file it outputs is blank.

I have tried rebooting, powering off and on, reloading the drivers, recording on the box on or off, nothing doing.

What gives? Anybody got any ideas?

I went through the sticky post on recording off the Firewire port of the Motorola DCT 3412, and managed to record something. But when I tried to record a subsequent time with CapDVHS, the fields (such as "size" and "aspect ratio") remain blank, and the file it outputs is blank.

I have tried rebooting, powering off and on, reloading the drivers, recording on the box on or off, nothing doing.

What gives? Anybody got any ideas?

Are you trying to record a channel with 5c protection?

Are you trying to record a channel with 5c protection?

No, I tried several channels. The time clicks by, it outputs a file, but it is blank video.

Wait.....I got it to record again on "Court TV", but when I tried to record "MILI", the digital Military Channel, I get no output. Is it because that channel is protected? Or is it because it is digital? How does one know if a channel is protected or not?

Thanks in advance.

Now the next question....How does one (can one?) download the recorded programs off of the Motorola DCT3412's HDD onto a computer via the Firewire port? Is it possible?

I am going to try this Panasonic camcorder software (Motion Studio) that came with my camcorder that downloads the video via it's Firewire port and try that. I'lll let you all know how it goes.

How does one know if a channel is protected or not?

Diagnostics

Power Off (not the plug, just the button)
OK/Select (within 2 seconds)
D11 (Interface Status)
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
.
.
.
.
5C Implementation (0 is no)

I went through the sticky post on recording off the Firewire port of the Motorola DCT 3412, and managed to record something. But when I tried to record a subsequent time with CapDVHS, the fields (such as "size" and "aspect ratio") remain blank, and the file it outputs is blank.

I have tried rebooting, powering off and on, reloading the drivers, recording on the box on or off, nothing doing.

What gives? Anybody got any ideas?

Have you tried restarting CAPDVHS?


ajwees41

Hello all!

Long time lurker, first time poster!


I just purchased a 50" Sony, I live in Atlanta and have Comcast coming to install cable, internet, and voip.

My tv has 2 HDMI connections, and I requested a 6412 Phase III STB....Did I request the right one or should I have requested the 3412 instead?

It shouldn't make much of a difference. The distinction between the two is mostly about how they get their input feed.

I'm haven't experienced the FF/RW issues that have been discussed. I had to exchange a 3412 due to a failed DVR HD, but since installing the new one, all DVR functions work normally. I'm not using the firewire port, though. Sounds like maybe it's box-specific?

It's specific to using the firewire port, both on the 6412 and 3412... After you use the FW port to capture a program to a PC or a DVHS deck, FF/REW effectively breaks.

But I can confirm that this workaround works! As long as the box is in FF or REW mode AND my firewire capture program is capturing the stream when I disconnect the Firewire cable, the FF/REW works okay afterwards.

Now I don't have to reboot everytime I record a program via firewire... no more losing guide data! :)

As long as the box is in FF or REW mode AND my firewire capture program is capturing the stream when I disconnect the Firewire cable, the FF/REW works okay afterwards.

If you forget to go through the unnatural act of recording in FF/REW mode, disconnect the firewire, and notice that the FF/REW is broken, will a subsequent disconnect while recording in FF/REW mode heal the broken transport functions?

If you forget to go through the unnatural act of recording in FF/REW mode, disconnect the firewire, and notice that the FF/REW is broken, will a subsequent disconnect while recording in FF/REW mode heal the broken transport functions?

Yep, you can connect and then disconnect using the workaround and the FF/REW will be "fixed." I still think that the FF/REW is too fast, but it's much better than not working at all.

Yet another new problem reared its ugly head yesterday. Watching a recorded movie, got about halfway thru when the picture froze, then the screen went black. Nothing happened until I hit stop, when I was bounced to the Start Over screen, with no option to resume. I tried several times to FF to the spot where it cut off, but it would freeze up again (at different endpoints each time I tried), then go black again. Finally got it to work on the 4th try, then the rest of the movie played normally. Anyone else run into this problem? Any solutions, other than the dreaded swap out the box?

Has anyone ever seen a message that reads "The HD content protection of your display has been compromised. Please switch to Y Pb Pr connection." I just had this come up on my display (a Samsumg HP-S4253). I am running the Comcast DCT3412. When I turn on the Comcast STB, I will get a picture for about 3 seconds, then the picture turns to a green screen. I still get sound, but no picture.

Any thoughts??

Has anyone ever seen a message that reads "The HD content protection of your display has been compromised. Please switch to Y Pb Pr connection." I just had this come up on my display (a Samsumg HP-S4253). I am running the Comcast DCT3412. When I turn on the Comcast STB, I will get a picture for about 3 seconds, then the picture turns to a green screen. I still get sound, but no picture.

Any thoughts??
You must be using the HDMI connection. These connections use HDCP (HD Copy Protection) to create a secure, encrypted connection. If there is some miscommunication or other issue, it will fail the connection.

This link may have some solutions you can try:
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

You must be using the HDMI connection. These connections use HDCP (HD Copy Protection) to create a secure, encrypted connection. If there is some miscommunication or other issue, it will fail the connection.

This link may have some solutions you can try:
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

Thanks for the help, Andy. I will try to troubleshoot from the info on Wikipedia and see how that goes.

Alright, I went through the Motorola diagnostics menu as described in the above wikibooks link. On the HDCP enabled option, it reads No. I wasn't able to change this to read yes. Does anyone know if that is possible?

Thanks!!

Has anyone ever seen a message that reads "The HD content protection of your display has been compromised. Please switch to Y Pb Pr connection." I just had this come up on my display (a Samsumg HP-S4253). I am running the Comcast DCT3412. When I turn on the Comcast STB, I will get a picture for about 3 seconds, then the picture turns to a green screen. I still get sound, but no picture.

Any thoughts??


How is the dvr hooked up? Anything between the dvr and tv?

ajwees41

How is the dvr hooked up? Anything between the dvr and tv?

ajwees41

The dvr is hooked up directly through HDMI. If I connect via component, everything works ok (both the dvr and the dvd player).

In the diagnostics menu on the dvr, the HDMI port setting says that the HDCP is not enabled.

Can the TV actually be the problem? Is there a way to determine if the TV has a HDCP setting that can be enabled/disabled?

Thanks!!

Are you saying that you have a DVD player that doesn't work over HDMI as well? Are you using the same HDMI cable? Perhaps your cable is bad. You are saying that you have your HDMI cable going directly from the DVR to the TV aren't you? The handshake will not take place if you are going through a receiver or switch.

The dvr (DCT3412) and dvd player were both hooked up directly via HDMI to the TV. Everything was working fine until both components were being turned on and off on at the same time (while I was testing IR codes on my universal remote). After that, the "HD content protection of this display has been compromised" message came on and neither component (dvr or dvd) will work via HDMI.

I have looked at the diagnostic menu on the comcast dvr, and as I mentioned above, the HDMI port shows the setting: HDCP Enabled: No. Now I'm not sure if it says no because the TV's HDCP is screwed up or if the dvr's setting needs to be changed.

No one at comcst customer service kows what I am talking about, and the Samsung tech support told me to call back on Monday when the high-level tech support people are there.

After troubleshooting all the components, I kind of think the HDCP setting on the TV is screwed up. Does anyone know how to access a HDCP menu or reset the TV back to factory default?

Thanks!!
Nate

Did you try turning on the box first, waiting for boot up and then turning on the TV?

I really, really hate this box ;). I constantly get the FF/RW problem (I do a lot of firewire work), no sound, scheduled recordings completely fail to start or for some reason just stop mid-movie, etc; *sigh*

I had mine spontaneously reboot yesterday in the middle of something. It was annoying, but not an earth-shakingly big deal

A problem I haven't seen before popped-up yesterday. I fired up the plasma & sound system -- no audio from the 3412. After powering the 3412 down and back up, the sound returned. (I'm not using the sound over HDMI.) I typically keep the 3412 powered-up all the time. Anyone else seen this?

A problem I haven't seen before popped-up yesterday. I fired up the plasma & sound system -- no audio from the 3412. After powering the 3412 down and back up, the sound returned. (I'm not using the sound over HDMI.) I typically keep the 3412 powered-up all the time. Anyone else seen this?

Not yet, but I typically start having the same problems right after someone posts the info. So let's just cut it out and everything will be fine! :(

Yep, happens periodically to me.

A problem I haven't seen before popped-up yesterday. I fired up the plasma & sound system -- no audio from the 3412. After powering the 3412 down and back up, the sound returned. (I'm not using the sound over HDMI.) I typically keep the 3412 powered-up all the time. Anyone else seen this?
I have seen this happen with the same setup and used the same solution. The unit was particularly warm during a recent hot spell and it seemed to have locked up on the audio.

That's happened to me a couple of times in the past two weeks also. Very annoying.

Better check the result if you're recording from the DVR to a DVD or whatever. Just had the screen go blank in the middle of playback. The original recorded ok, had to reboot to get it to play back the whole program. Incidentally, is there another way to force a reboot, other than unplugging it for 30 secs or so?

Better check the result if you're recording from the DVR to a DVD or whatever. Just had the screen go blank in the middle of playback. The original recorded ok, had to reboot to get it to play back the whole program. Incidentally, is there another way to force a reboot, other than unplugging it for 30 secs or so?

For me there is a bug that reboots my box. It's related to a firewire device anywhere in the chain, linked to the 6412. I dont' know why, but whenever I unplug a device on the chain, the cable box will go dead and the hard drive won't spin up again until I unplug the firewire from it. There is a very specific order and way I have to connect my DVHS deck and TV. Also sometimes the TV takes several seconds to start it's warm up procedure, and sometimes this will result in cycling power or something real quick to it(the tv) thus killing the cable box. So usually I don't keep the firewire plugged into the TV, if I notice the TV is takign a while I have to get up and make sure the firewire isn't plugged in, or else it's bye bye TV guide listings on the 6412 for 48 hours :mad:

Just another great "feature" of the 6412!

This is the 3412 thread ;)

For me, I just wish the guide data populated faster after reboot since I have to do it so freaking often.

Now I can't get it to play back a recorded program all the way thru - the picture freezes, then the screen goes blank. Using FF I verified that the entire recording is actually there, but every time I try to play it back, the same thing happens, and not in the same place. Unplugged to reset, no change. Sigh.

OK, I'm new to this DVR (3412), recently coming over from TiVo. How do I enable the HDMI output? I saw something earlier in the thread about turning the unit off, and pressing menu, but that just pops up a screen so quickly I can't make anything out, then it goes away, and the display on the unit says 16:9.

Also, can I use the firewire or USB to increase the hard drive size? This thing is pitifully small (80 gigs I think.)

And how do I enable a 30 second skip?

OK, I'm new to this DVR (3412), recently coming over from TiVo. How do I enable the HDMI output? I saw something earlier in the thread about turning the unit off, and pressing menu, but that just pops up a screen so quickly I can't make anything out, then it goes away, and the display on the unit says 16:9.

Also, can I use the firewire or USB to increase the hard drive size? This thing is pitifully small (80 gigs I think.)

And how do I enable a 30 second skip?

All the outputs are enabled. Just connect the HDMI properly.

Firewire works, but not to increase disk size -- only for outputting current program to computer or a DVD writer, for example. USB is powered but otherwise not active. Neither ethernet nor SATA is active.

The disk size is 120GB.

See Wikipedia entry for info about things like 30-second skip:
http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR

All the outputs are enabled. Just connect the HDMI properly.

Firewire works, but not to increase disk size -- only for outputting current program to computer or a DVD writer, for example. USB is powered but otherwise not active. Neither ethernet nor SATA is active.

The disk size is 120GB.

See Wikipedia entry for info about things like 30-second skip:
http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR

Thanks! My HDMI doesn't seem to be working: I'll have to troubleshoot to see if its the TV, the Cable, or my PVR.

im new to all this how do i transfer my content from dvr to my computer via firewire also i have firewire on my widescreen can i use that to hook my box to tv instead of component cable?

Thanks! My HDMI doesn't seem to be working: I'll have to troubleshoot to see if its the TV, the Cable, or my PVR.

You need to set the STB to the correct Display output used for your TV's input.

480i, 480p, 720p, 1080i

pan & scan, widescreen, 16:9

ect......

This box is a real pain in the ass. I really hope the Tivo software fixes some of the problems.

Firewire to DVHS output is a lot buggier on this box than the 62xx series, and it will often lose sound when I try to make a recording.

How far off is the Tivo software from being rolled out here in the NE/Boston area?

Now I can't get it to play back a recorded program all the way thru - the picture freezes, then the screen goes blank. Using FF I verified that the entire recording is actually there, but every time I try to play it back, the same thing happens, and not in the same place. Unplugged to reset, no change. Sigh.

Comcast's response: There must be something wrong with my TV. Sigh.

Well, well... lookie here.
I am new to this thread as of now. Yesterday my friendly Comcrap repair man (actually he was great! Polite, intelligent, friendly, knowledgeable... really!) brought me a brand-spanking-new 3412 w/ HDMI active.

Until yesterday I had the 6412 PIII. What a POS!! The worst bit of pseudo-technology since Windows 3.1. :mad:

Anyway, so I just skimmed a wee bit of this thread and believe that I have jumped from the pot into the fire. It appears that both Moto boxes have their fair share of endemic and systemic problems. I’m currently so very glad I chose Comcrap as my provider (like I had much of a choice!). :rolleyes:

So, I was wondering what the latest firmware was for this thing. I now have 12.22. Is that the latest?

Thanks, and great to be aboard! :)

shane

Anyway, so I just skimmed a wee bit of this thread and believe that I have jumped from the pot into the fire. It appears that both Moto boxes have their fair share of endemic and systemic problems. I’m currently so very glad I chose Comcrap as my provider (like I had much of a choice!).

Same here. Might be worth moving, just to get Dish Network back. I used their DVR for several years, with zero problems. Instantaneous response from remote, real slow motion, smooth FF at any speed, no freeze-ups, no audio dropouts, no blank screens, etc, etc. Sigh.

Same here. Might be worth moving, just to get Dish Network back. I used their DVR for several years, with zero problems. Instantaneous response from remote, real slow motion, smooth FF at any speed, no freeze-ups, no audio dropouts, no blank screens, etc, etc. Sigh.

You left out "no HD."

Same here. Might be worth moving, just to get Dish Network back. I used their DVR for several years, with zero problems. Instantaneous response from remote, real slow motion, smooth FF at any speed, no freeze-ups, no audio dropouts, no blank screens, etc, etc. Sigh.
Yup.
Aside from my more resent stint as a 6412 user, I had TiVo for years, and the user interface was virtually flawless. The opposite can be said for these units.

For example... The reason to pause an image is to view it. The reason to slow-mo or slow-rev something is to view it. Duh, right? With Tivo, the 'time' bar would disappear so that you could actually see the whole image that you have paused or are viewing in slo-mo. Not these. The lower third is obstructed by that ridiculously large time bar. How f%@*ing stupid is that? :(

These STBs are moronic. The interface is stone-age, and the problems with them are enough to drive one insane. :mad:

The reason I got rid of my 6412 was because it developed a wonderful little trick of freezing in FF1... forever! Not just delayed for a few seconds or minutes... forever! The only cure was to unplug the POS, and then, of course wait 24 - 48 hours for the iGuide to re-populate. Ugh! :mad:

How is it possible that Comcrap or any other cable provider distribute these in good concience? How is it possible that with all the complaints and all the known problems that there haven't been fixes? WTF? :mad:

So anyway... is 12.22 the latest firmware?

thanks

shane

12.31 is the latest firmware for the 6412 III throughout most of the Bay Area. Maybe Oaklandish is in the Dark Ages. :)

You left out "no HD."

I stand corrected. But I'd be happier with a unit that actually works, even without HD.

Has anyone else had the problem of screen going blank during playback of a recorded program? Any solution?

When rebooting by unplugging the box for a minute or so, should the box be powered off before unplugging, or maybe it doesn't matter?

I just unplug the box. I don't think it matters.

12.31 is the latest firmware for the 6412 III throughout most of the Bay Area. Maybe Oaklandish is in the Dark Ages. :)
Looks like we here love the dark ages. Yes, after 2 full days with this unit, it hasn't updated it's firmware. Still 12.22. Ugh.

Another interesting oddity with this unit...

With the 6412, if I paused and then hit either FF or Rew once, it would go in those directions in slo-mo.

This unit will not. It just sits there in pause. So I'll hit FF again. The readout on the front says FF1, and again it says FF2, and again FF3, etc... but it just sits there, Paused. Unless I hit the button 5 times (or hit Play), nothing happens. :eek:

Anyone else have this particular bug? :confused:

shane

Aside from my more resent stint as a 6412 user, I had TiVo for years, and the user interface was virtually flawless. The opposite can be said for these units.There is no question that TiVo is better software. However, TiVo doesn't have anything that works with cable-driven HD yet available to the general public, and the satellite services' HD PQ sucks by comparison to Comcast, so I gladly use the 3412, leaving my three TiVos to just patter around with the SD channels now.

How is it possible that Comcrap or any other cable provider distribute these in good concience?Because they're not as bad as many people here try to make people think they are.

Because they're not as bad as many people here try to make people think they are.

Agreed. Too many people expect more from the Cable DVR's then what they were designed for. The Moto STB are not Tivo, or Replay devices.

all 3 of my /\/\oto DCT 3412p1 work just fine for my family. All together we record about 15 - 35 hours of shows every day. Watch them within 24 hours, delete them and record some more stuff. They were made for timeshifting recording only. They were not made to archive shows.

I can deal with the reboots, the bugs, and the slow Guide refresh... I just wish there was more storage :(.

Agreed. Too many people expect more from the Cable DVR's then what they were designed for. The Moto STB are not Tivo, or Replay devices.
all 3 of my /\/\oto DCT 3412p1 work just fine for my family. All together we record about 15 - 35 hours of shows every day. Watch them within 24 hours, delete them and record some more stuff. They were made for timeshifting recording only. They were not made to archive shows.

Who says these DVRs were made for timeshifting only? And who says they're not meant to function as well as Tivo or Dish Network or whatever?

Even if we accept the premise, the implementation for timeshifting is still crap, what with the delayed remote response, picture freezes, blank screens, audio dropouts, etc

A few comments:

... The reason to pause an image is to view it. ...

Press the 'Exit' button, the on-screen graphics go away.

Too many people expect more from the Cable DVR's then what they were designed for. The Moto STB are not Tivo, or Replay devices.

I think you're giving them waaay too much credit. Not being a Tivo or Replay means to me that I'm not going to share shows across multiple boxes and my PC, or use it as a multimedia center. I can live with that. But a 15-second lag to remote control commands is unacceptable for any consumer device, and Comcast further cripples it by disabling the 30-second skip. They then turn around and want to charge $120 a year?!?

The only thing that keeps me from returning it immediately is it's ability to record HD content. (I'm behind a hill and can't get either OTA or satellite.) As soon as I can find a working alternative, I'm switching.

Personally, I've found Comcast's service to be very good; it's this box I hate!

Who says these DVRs were made for timeshifting only? And who says they're not meant to function as well as Tivo or Dish Network or whatever?

Even if we accept the premise, the implementation for timeshifting is still crap, what with the delayed remote response, picture freezes, blank screens, audio dropouts, etc

All of the problems you list have been fixed in the last 2 Firmware releases and some of the problems are software or IPG software related.

Not all areas have tha latest F/W or Software or IPG software. It takes time to code them for each individual Cable Plant / Head End. After it is done it will be pushed out to the users.

Agreed. Too many people expect more from the Cable DVR's then what they were designed for.
I expect them to actually perform exactly as they were meant to.
When it say's slw on the readout, it should actually be in slow mode. When it shows FF1 or REW it should actually be in that mode. This is not expecting it to be like a TiVo machine, it's expecting it to perform its own basic functions.

This is not too much to ask of any kind of device, be it a cellphone, camera, TV-monitor, etc.

Normal functioning of a device should not include serious input delays or freezes or blank screens or drop-outs (as already stated), or in my case with the 6412, needing to be plug-pulled every other day because it just stops working. :mad:

The only... ONLY reason I don't drop this thing out a window is because for the best HD - PQ, there is no alternative... and when... WHEN it does work, it looks stunning.

shane

I expect them to actually perform exactly as they were meant to.
When it say's slw on the readout, it should actually be in slow mode. When it shows FF1 or REW it should actually be in that mode. This is not expecting it to be like a TiVo machine, it's expecting it to perform its own basic functions.

This is not too much to ask of any kind of device, be it a cellphone, camera, TV-monitor, etc.

Normal functioning of a device should not include serious input delays or freezes or blank screens or drop-outs (as already stated), or in my case with the 6412, needing to be plug-pulled every other day because it just stops working. :mad:

The only... ONLY reason I don't drop this thing out a window is because for the best HD - PQ, there is no alternative... and when... WHEN it does work, it looks stunning.

shane

As someone who works on these STB M-F, I can tell you they do perform there function, however most of the problems are caused by STB software, Firmware (device Drivers & Headend settings) & The crappy IPG Software.

On the 3412p1 the crappy FF/RW frame by frame, CPU & Remote buffer hold times & HDMI problems are related to Firmware issues, and as of F/W 12.31 & 12.35 they have been fixed.

I have 12.31 and no longer have any problems with my 3 DVR's. :)

As someone who works on these STB M-F, I can tell you they do perform there function, however most of the problems are caused by STB software, Firmware (device Drivers & Headend settings) & The crappy IPG Software.

On the 3412p1 the crappy FF/RW frame by frame, CPU & Remote buffer hold times & HDMI problems are related to Firmware issues, and as of F/W 12.31 & 12.35 they have been fixed.

I have 12.31 and no longer have any problems with my 3 DVR's. :)
Thanks for this word.
Being that here in Oakland, CA they haven't upgraded us from 12.22... or they haven't upgraded MINE, we are still plagued by issues.

Come-on-update!

shane

Shane, it not YOUR box, it's all of the Oaklandish head end. Every box in the head end gets the same firmware/software. Now, all they need to do is code the head end and off you'll go. Keep in mind that even with 12.31 some problems persist. I still get slow remote response from time to time and, yesterday, I had black screen and had to unplug to fix it. It's more like "come on Panasonic."

All of the problems you list have been fixed in the last 2 Firmware releases and some of the problems are software or IPG software related.

Are we supposed to excuse them if the problems are software related?

I expect them to actually perform exactly as they were meant to.
When it say's slw on the readout, it should actually be in slow mode. When it shows FF1 or REW it should actually be in that mode.

Not to mention that when it's in FF mode, the screen should indicate that immediately, not 15-30 secs later or after the box gets back from its hourly siesta.

Are we supposed to excuse them if the problems are software related?

Nope! :D Please call and complain about the problems to the TFN or your local head end office.

I work for Comcast and I still complain to them about there service. :cool:

On the 3412p1 the crappy FF/RW frame by frame, CPU & Remote buffer hold times & HDMI problems are related to Firmware issues, and as of F/W 12.31 & 12.35 they have been fixed.

One other thing I've noticed - seems like they've attempted to fix the drop-back when going from FF to Play. Used to drop back as much as a half hour, now it seems to start play a lot closer to where I hit play. Or am I just imagining this?

And is there some good reason why they can't let us know the purpose of firmware updates, and what we can expect, so we don't all hafta just stumble over these things, not realizing what they've done?

Not to mention that when it's in FF mode, the screen should indicate that immediately, not 15-30 secs later or after the box gets back from its hourly siesta.

CPU / cycle issue, it has been fixed with F/W 12.31 & 12.35 for the most part. You might still get remote punches buffered if the STB CPU is doing something else.

One other thing I've noticed - seems like they've attempted to fix the drop-back when going from FF to Play. Used to drop back as much as a half hour, now it seems to start play a lot closer to where I hit play. Or am I just imagining this?

And is there some good reason why they can't let us know the purpose of firmware updates, and what we can expect, so we don't all hafta just stumble over these things, not realizing what they've done?

Comcast does not like to inform there customers of anything but rate increases.... :eek:


Comcast has yet to let the subscribers in my home area know that they have added about 12 new on demand shopping and local ch. in the 800 area, let alone ESPN 2 HD. or the fact that are HSI speeds went from 8 Mbps to 12 Mbps with a Burst speed downloads in the 22.8 Mbps range.

CPU / cycle issue, it has been fixed with F/W 12.31 & 12.35 for the most part. You might still get remote punches buffered if the STB CPU is doing something else.

Is the firmware version listed under Platform Built? If so, I'm at v 12.31, dated 1-24-06.

CPU / cycle issue, it has been fixed with F/W 12.31 & 12.35 for the most part. You might still get remote punches buffered if the STB CPU is doing something else.

It isn't fixed on my F/W 12.31, so should I pray for 12.35 or shift the blame to Microsoft?

Is the firmware version listed under Platform Built? If so, I'm at v 12.31, dated 1-24-06.

If that date is correct, this firmware has been out for 6 months already?

If that date is correct, this firmware has been out for 6 months already?
Whaaaaaa?? :confused: :eek:
Could my little stone-age Oaktown be that far behind? Oh jeepers no!

Maybe a call to my 'customer service' number is in order... that should be enlightening.
While I'm at it, I'll ask them why my unit has no slo-mo capability. Ugh. :(

shane

Whaaaaaa?? :confused: :eek:
Could my little stone-age Oaktown be that far behind? Oh jeepers no!

Maybe a call to my 'customer service' number is in order... that should be enlightening.
While I'm at it, I'll ask them why my unit has no slo-mo capability. Ugh. :(

shane


Dont let them tell you it's your tv thats at fault. :eek:

It isn't fixed on my F/W 12.31, so should I pray for 12.35 or shift the blame to Microsoft?

My head ends 12.31 will not be the same as your 12.31

Each area head end / cable plant uses different code & equipment.

Sometimes a complete re-authorization and download of all STB Software & Firmware will clear it up for you.

Scanpa, so which FW version does fix the "remote buffering" problem?

Scanpa, so which FW version does fix the "remote buffering" problem?

For my House, we got the 12.31 F/W in march and it fixed 95% of all the problems including the remote buffering / CPU clock timeout problem.

But like I said, the 12.31 F/W you have or get might not sove the same problems.

How can anyone at Comcast on the technical side even keep track of all of these geographic firmware variations? How could they possibly expect to provide accurate information to their CSRs who may be answering calls for multiple areas with a variety of different implemetations (i.e., firmware versions, STB models and phases, etc.).

I hope they are working toward a more standardized environment to minimize these complications and the confusion factor that goes with them.

How can anyone at Comcast on the technical side even keep track of all of these geographic firmware variations? How could they possibly expect to provide accurate information to their CSRs who may be answering calls for multiple areas with a variety of different implemetations (i.e., firmware versions, STB models and phases, etc.). I hope they are working toward a more standardized environment to minimize these complications and the confusion factor that goes with them.

Hear hear. Does anyone happen to know why they have so many different firmware versions out there?

Hear hear. Does anyone happen to know why they have so many different firmware versions out there?This mess was certainly not planned. To a large degree, it comes from multiple generations and variations of equipment supporting cable plant, some of which coming from acquisitions.

I am sure Comcast hates this complex mess even more than we do. But the price of resolving it is a combination of time and huge expenditures for upgrades and replacements.

My real hope is that they have defined a single or very small set of standard target architecture(s) so that each expensive upgrade is at least a move in the right direction. But this is a long-term proposition and much of the short-term pain will be around for a while.

I wouldn't think that multiple firmware versions would be a problem, but multiple versions with the same version number is asking for trouble.

This mess was certainly not planned. To a large degree, it comes from multiple generations and variations of equipment supporting cable plant, some of which coming from acquisitions.

True, but I'm not sure why this should result in multiple versions of firmware for the same model STB. And as wareagle noted, identical version numbers that are not the same software is a real nightmare...

True, but I'm not sure why this should result in multiple versions of firmware for the same model STB. And as wareagle noted, identical version numbers that are not the same software is a real nightmare...

The F/W version is the basic coding of the Firmware, it then is turned over to the MSO for individual Equipment drivers and settings added / deleted and any other changes.

Well... I'm getting a new box on Saturday.
Aside from no slo-mo in either direction, it just froze up on FF1 and REW1 too many times last night... like... for 10-15 minutes each time!
Intollerable. :mad:

So, we'll see what fun tricks a new unit will bring me. :eek:

shane

Is there any conclusion from this enormous thread about the 3412 version the 6412III? I.e., if one has a functioning 6412III, should one just hang on to it as long as it works, or rush out and exchange it for a 3412 asap?

Well... I'm getting a new box on Saturday.
Aside from no slo-mo in either direction, it just froze up on FF1 and REW1 too many times last night... like... for 10-15 minutes each time!
Intollerable. So, we'll see what fun tricks a new unit will bring me.


Good luck. Comcast does not yet appear to understand the concept of a DVR, the fact that you might have 60 hours of recorded programs, and swapping for a new unit might not be such an attractive option.

Good luck. Comcast does not yet appear to understand the concept of a DVR, the fact that you might have 60 hours of recorded programs, and swapping for a new unit might not be such an attractive option.
Understood.
I just got this unit less than a week ago. It doesn't have much accumulated. ;)

It is the series programming that is the biggest pain in the a$$ right now. But I'll switch out a unit every fracking week if I need to in order to find one that works!

I've requested a 6412 PIII as that's what I had before. It worked ok... then took a real big sh1t and died on me. This 3412 was just crap from the beginning. Ugh. :(

shane

Is there any conclusion from this enormous thread about the 3412 version the 6412III? I.e., if one has a functioning 6412III, should one just hang on to it as long as it works, or rush out and exchange it for a 3412 asap?

No, they are the same STB with the 3412 being All Digital only. and in a slightly smaller case.

They both use the same Software & Firmware in the 6412p3 & both the 3412p1 & 3412p2

Is there any conclusion from this enormous thread about the 3412 version the 6412III? I.e., if one has a functioning 6412III, should one just hang on to it as long as it works, or rush out and exchange it for a 3412 asap?
Bill... see my post above.
If it works... for god sake, keep it man! ;)

shane

I've requested a 6412 PIII as that's what I had before. It worked ok... then took a real big sh1t and died on me. This 3412 was just crap from the beginning. Ugh.

Near as I can tell, it's pure potluck swapping machines, you get whatever piece of crap they have in the pile at the time. The last one I got obviously hadn't even been touched since its return - the HDD was 70% full and there were dozens of scheduled programs and series.

Sorry, but I have not found any clear answer on this. But, if I use a digital coaxial output from the 3412 to my A/V Receiver, does it make a difference what the audio settings are on the 3412? i.e heavy compression, matrix stereo. If so what is the proper setting?

Thanx

Sorry, but I have not found any clear answer on this. But, if I use a digital coaxial output from the 3412 to my A/V Receiver, does it make a difference what the audio settings are on the 3412? i.e heavy compression, matrix stereo. If so what is the proper setting?

Thanx

^Those setting are ONLY for the Analog RCA R/L outputes and do nothing with the digital Audio out.

There is a Digital Audio User menu, however for some reason, comcast does not make it available to users.

Near as I can tell, it's pure potluck swapping machines, you get whatever piece of crap they have in the pile at the time. The last one I got obviously hadn't even been touched since its return - the HDD was 70% full and there were dozens of scheduled programs and series.


Had to be a accident, as all returned STB get back to the work bench (where I work) to be factory reset w/ HDD CLR and full Testing done on it.

^Those setting are ONLY for the Analog RCA R/L outputes and do nothing with the digital Audio out.

There is a Digital Audio User menu, however for some reason, comcast does not make it available to users.

Thnx!! :D

Originally Posted by opus312
Near as I can tell, it's pure potluck swapping machines, you get whatever piece of crap they have in the pile at the time. The last one I got obviously hadn't even been touched since its return - the HDD was 70% full and there were dozens of scheduled programs and series.

Had to be a accident, as all returned STB get back to the work bench (where I work) to be factory reset w/ HDD CLR and full Testing done on it.

It would appear that just about every box that goes out the door is an accident. Or at the very least, an accident waiting to happen...

It would appear that just about every box that goes out the door is an accident. Or at the very least, an accident waiting to happen...
:D LOL - LOL :D
So true, so sad... so true.

shane

I gotta say, Comcast provides way better customer service than Dish Network ever did. They answer the phone relatively promptly, and I've never had to wait more than a few seconds to connect with live online tech support. Now if only their hardware and software wasn't such crap...

Is there any conclusion from this enormous thread about the 3412 version the 6412III? I.e., if one has a functioning 6412III, should one just hang on to it as long as it works, or rush out and exchange it for a 3412 asap?

I think it should be noted that we're only hearing from those that have a problem. My guess is that that the vast majority aren't experiencing most of these issues. I recently got a new 3412 box and have had none of the problems mentioned. Granted, I don't use the Firewire port, but several others that have noted problems likely don't, either. My 0.02.

I think it should be noted that we're only hearing from those that have a problem. My guess is that that the vast majority aren't experiencing most of these issues. I recently got a new 3412 box and have had none of the problems mentioned.

I'm on my 9th box. Perhaps I could buy yours?

I suspect that many more people are experiencing some of these issues, but have nothing to compare to, so they consider it to be normal behavior.

vico512...
I don't use Firewire. My setup is pretty simple.
HDMI and Toslink out. Nothing else.

shane

I'm on my 9th box. Perhaps I could buy yours?

I suspect that many more people are experiencing some of these issues, but have nothing to compare to, so they consider it to be normal behavior.
I suspect you are correct. Many people do experience some of these issues, but they don't feel it necessary to post their gripes day in and day out, especially when the same topic(s) has been covered and griped about several times.

I suspect you are correct. Many people do experience some of these issues, but they don't feel it necessary to post their gripes day in and day out, especially when the same topic(s) has been covered and griped about several times.

I think I'll let someone else respond to this nonsense.

All the problems I had went away when I started leaving my JVC 40k hooked up to firewire and left powered on. I say that with a big KNOCK ON WOOD because that's a nuance that shouldn't have to be in place in order for the 3412 to keep working correctly for me. All bets are off when the next firmware gets loaded on the machine. :eek:

Tim

I'm on my 9th box. Perhaps I could buy yours?

...............

Ha! Not a chance -- I'd be trading no problems for yours! <grin>

vico512...
I don't use Firewire. My setup is pretty simple.
HDMI and Toslink out. Nothing else.

shane

Same here -- HDMI to the Pioneer & Toslink to the 5.1 system. Guess I should count my lucky stars!

Ha! Not a chance -- I'd be trading no problems for yours! <grin>

Oh well, thought it was worth a shot. :)

Anyway, I just picked up another one, again keeping the old one until I can get the stuff off the hard drive. Keeping my fingers (and toes) crossed...

Many people do experience some of these issues, but they don't feel it necessary to post their gripes day in and day out, especially when the same topic(s) has been covered and griped about several times.
And many people, such as myself, do not experience any of these issues, but they don't feel it necessary to post their lack of gripes day in and day out.

For the tasks I want it to do, so far my 3412 works flawlessly. I don't use FireWire. I never cram the drive so full that it deletes anything automatically. And most of all, I never turn it off. Sure, I could use a bigger hard drive and numerous improvements in the user interface, but basically, it works.

Has anyone experience a problem with a sudden loss of picture? Periodically, the picture will go black and when I look at the 3412 display it flashes the channel on/off or displays erratic behavior. After waiting less than a minute the channel comes back and the picture is restored to the TV. I am trying to figure out if this issue is being caused by the 3412 or my TV.

I am using Comcast 3412 connected VIA HDMI to my Philips Plasma TV.

Has anyone experience a problem with a sudden loss of picture? Periodically, the picture will go black and when I look at the 3412 display it flashes the channel on/off or displays erratic behavior. After waiting less than a minute the channel comes back and the picture is restored to the TV. I am trying to figure out if this issue is being caused by the 3412 or my TV.

I am using Comcast 3412 connected VIA HDMI to my Philips Plasma TV.

It is the HDMI connection.

Haven't had THAT problem, but yesterday I came home to find a recording in progress (well, at least that part of it was good), but when I turned on the monitor to view it... black. No picture. I got the info, and the channel indicators and all the ancillary stuff... so there was image coming from the dvr... just no broadcast image.

Changing channels (on the other tuner) didn't help. Powering it down didn't help. I had to reboot it. Fortunately, I waited until after the recording was over and oddly enough the picture was there. :confused:

And... after reboot. It worked 'flawlessly' all evening. A first!

shane

Last night at about 10:15pm DW and I sat down to watch SYTYCD on our 3412 after it had finished recording. The DVR guide said the show recorded SYTYCD on FOX-HD for 1:02 at 9:00pm.

I selected Play and a message popped up saying, "This show is no longer available. Please select another..." or something to that affect. For a second I thought I would have to have request the show be sent to my ReplayTV, but I selected another show and paused it. Then I went back to last night's episode of SYTYCD that would play just prior and it started right up. Thereafter everything seemed to be normal, including using the firewire.

Doesn't inspire a lot of confidence.

Tim

Maybe someone can help me on this...

So, I have a Comcast Motorola 34(12?) Dual Tuner HD DVR box with HDMI out. I have a 34" widescreen HDTV (Philips) and a Panny 900u projector. I have the cable box connected to the TV via components (doesn't have HDMI in) and to the projector via HDMI.

Now, I know there are alot of different setup things that I have to go through. I was hoping to set the box to 720p which is the native for the projector. However, when I do that, HD does not show up on the TV (via component) and it throws a fit. The only way they both work is if the box is set at 480i. Is that what I should do?

There's alot of other settings on the menu i.e. advanced HDMI settings, etc that I have no idea what I should put for the correct settings...

What should I have it on, YbYrY or RGB (what is the difference in these?) I thought they were both just component video?

Also, then there's this thing for for HDMI output, DVI or HDMI
Then somthing about Colorsomething...

If anyone is familiar with this menu, they should be able to help me out pretty easily!

Thanks!

Hey midfiman,

I am not sure without knowing the model number on the Philips, but it sounds like the Philips won't accept 720p. Did you try to send 1080i to both? That might work if you want to send the video signal to both at the same time.

Hi Cclear,

Yes, it looks as though 480i or 1080i works going to the TV. It doesn't like 480p or 720p. I was hoping to set it to the projector's native (which is 720p), but I'll have to put it at 1080i and let the projector downconvert the signal to 720p. Thx.

It doesn't like 480p or 720p.


I find it interesting that it won't accept 480P, the natural output of a progressive scan DVD player. Perhaps there is a separate input for that. Regardless, 480P is not a high definition standard so 1080I is your best choice.

Another problem just popped up on the new box, this is something that happened on one of the previous boxes when playing back DVR recordings. All of a sudden, the audio starts acting up - get a crackling sound, like firecrackers going off. If I REW and play it again, the sound is normal. Anyone else run into this?

Don't know if this is new or not but i just went to the North Ave comcast location in chicago and picked up a 3416... nice to have the extra 40 gigs.

How many times have you tried to use On Demand, only to be notified that it's not available right now, you should try again later. Perhaps it should be called On Demand (NOT!)

Don't know if this is new or not but i just went to the North Ave comcast location in chicago and picked up a 3416... nice to have the extra 40 gigs.

It's new to me, sure wish I knew about this a couple days ago when I picked up a new 3412. Wonder if it's available everywhere...

It's new to me, sure wish I knew about this a couple days ago when I picked up a new 3412. Wonder if it's available everywhere...

Well not sure if they are giving these out exclusivley but they had a stack of 34xx and just handed me this one. I didn't ask for it. So far so god.

Received this email today, from Comcast's NW region VP -

We are hard at work with both Microsoft and Motorola to get them to square away a
number of issues with the DVRs. We are expecting some major corrections to the platform in the very near future.

Is there any Microsoft involvement with Comcast HD STBs other than the trial being conducted in the State of Washington only?

Is there any Microsoft involvement with Comcast HD STBs other than the trial being conducted in the State of Washington only?

Dunno. I'm in WA, knew I was in trouble the first time I booted up the DVR and saw that it was "Microsoft Enhanced"

We are hard at work with both Microsoft and Motorola to get them to square away a
number of issues with the DVRs. We are expecting some major corrections to the platform in the very near future.
:D :eek: That's great news! :eek: :D
"...very near future." can't come soon enough.

Curious... how did you come to get this email?

shane

I was told by a local Comcast hardware guru that they expect to launch new firmware for 6412's and 3412's around the middle of September.........

Many bug fixes included.

Received this email today, from Comcast's NW region VP -

We are hard at work with both Microsoft and Motorola to get them to square away a
number of issues with the DVRs. We are expecting some major corrections to the platform in the very near future.At least they're acknowledging they've got problems.

DW and I missed last night's results show for SYTYCD because the DVR didn't even record it even though I confirmed it was scheduled. :mad: Thankfully someone's sending it to one of our ReplayTVs so at least well see it in SD.

It seems most of the people having problems are using Microsoft software. Who knew we were going to be the beta testers for their new OS. :eek:

Tim

It seems most of the people having problems are using Microsoft software. Who knew we were going to be the beta testers for their new OS. :eek:


Actually, from what I've seen, iGuide (what everyone else has) is even worse than the MS software. I'm definitely not a fan of the MS DVR software, but don't be fooled into thinking the grass is greener on the other side...

I was told by a local Comcast hardware guru that they expect to launch new firmware for 6412's and 3412's around the middle of September.........

Many bug fixes included.
Any chance they'll enable PIP on the 3412?

Actually, from what I've seen, iGuide (what everyone else has) is even worse than the MS software. I'm definitely not a fan of the MS DVR software, but don't be fooled into thinking the grass is greener on the other side...


I agree. In following the iGuide forums it seems that most of the serious problems are common to both (Motorola firmware or guide programming info). They do have a 30-second skip that we don't, but we have the ability to prune unwanted channels from the guide listings.

"...very near future." can't come soon enough.
Curious... how did you come to get this email?


Kinda funny story. I was on the phone with a Comcast tech, explaining the most recent problems. He said it was time to escalate this to the local office, and they would contact me the next day. I asked him if he'd like to place a little wager on whether they'd actually call. Of course, they never called. So I sent an email to their VP (had his address from some previous correspondence). He responded that he'd take me up on the bet. Regretfully, I had to inform him that he'd already lost, the time period had expired.

Haven't been able to get On Demand all day. Get this error message: "Your cable box cannot tune to On Demand right now. Please try again in a few minutes."

Haven't been able to get On Demand all day. Get this error message: "Your cable box cannot tune to On Demand right now. Please try again in a few minutes."

After another couple phone calls, finally figured out what's going on. Apparently, the service is actually: On Demand Unless Someone Else Demanded It First. The tech says this is quite common for popular shows - the server gets overloaded. Of course, the stupid error mssage doesn't help - it's not a problem tuning to On Demand, it's only that particular program. And I suppose the marketing suits would frown on a revised slogan, something like: On Demand Maybe If You're Lucky.

A couple days ago I posted that I had an appointment to get my STB swapped out. I really had it with this box and instead of ripping it out of the cabinet and hurling it to the bushes below, I thought it best to be mature and just get another one.

I explained that after it went dead, I had to 'hard reset' it (unplug), and that since I did that, the beast had been working fairly well... except for the slo-mo, which on this unit never worked.

Well... lo and behold. That hard reset apparently did the trick. And while I know that typing this will jinx me into electro-hell, the Moto has been working flawlessly (well, I guess as much so as these units can). I even found a work-around (series of commands) to get it to slo-mo FF and REW.

I cancelled the swap appointment and will keep my fingers crossed. So far, so very good. :D

shane

I explained that after it went dead, I had to 'hard reset' it (unplug), and that since I did that, the beast had been working fairly well... except for the slo-mo, which on this unit never worked.
Well... lo and behold. That hard reset apparently did the trick.

Excellent! :)

One of the Comcast techs told me you should definitely power off the box before unplugging it, to avoid a power surge. Dunno whether that makes sense...

One of the Comcast techs told me you should definitely power off the box before unplugging it, to avoid a power surge. Dunno whether that makes sense...
Depends on whether or not the 'power' button actually works. :D ;)
I my case... when it froze and no buttons on the remote or front of the unit actually were functional, I had no choice but to pull the plug on the frozen unit.

That said... I also didn't give a sh1t whether or not I fried the POS in the interim. Power surge... Ha! I call it electroshock therapy! :D

shane

And who says they're not meant to function as well as Tivo or Dish Network or whatever?Just ask 'em! They'll tell you.

Excellent! :)

One of the Comcast techs told me you should definitely power off the box before unplugging it, to avoid a power surge. Dunno whether that makes sense...

The Power Button, DOES NOT turn the STB OFF!

It only set's the Audio & Video Card to sleep mode.

The STB is always powered up unless you unplug it!

:)

thinking of hooking up the firewire port of dvr to my mitsubishi ws 48511 was wondering would this be a good or bad idea as far as picture quality currently hooked up thru component cable

Thanks for this word.
Being that here in Oakland, CA they haven't upgraded us from 12.22... or they haven't upgraded MINE, we are still plagued by issues.

Come-on-update!

shane

I have the same FF/REW issues in Mountain View, CA and also am on 12.22. I called Comcast, but the CSR didn't even know what firmware was. All he could do was send a signal to reset my box, which did nothing but zap my guide data. He would not put me through to a manager to talk about the issue, and only suggested I swap the box, which I'd rather not do because it has recordings I still need to watch. :(

Has anyone had any luck getting their firmware updated through customer service? Or am I just out of luck until Comcast in the Bay Area gets their act together and pushes out the update?

I have the same FF/REW issues in Mountain View, CA and also am on 12.22. I called Comcast, but the CSR didn't even know what firmware was. All he could do was send a signal to reset my box, which did nothing but zap my guide data. He would not put me through to a manager to talk about the issue, and only suggested I swap the box, which I'd rather not do because it has recordings I still need to watch. :(

Has anyone had any luck getting their firmware updated through customer service? Or am I just out of luck until Comcast in the Bay Area gets their act together and pushes out the update?

You have to wait untill the Head End Pushes out the F/W update.

Is it possible to record from On Demand using this box? I haven't been able to figure out how to do so here in Central Jersey with Comcast. Or, does this depend on the cableco?

Is it possible to record from On Demand using this box? I haven't been able to figure out how to do so here in Central Jersey with Comcast. Or, does this depend on the cableco?

Short answer.....no.

Is it possible to record from On Demand using this box? I haven't been able to figure out how to do so here in Central Jersey with Comcast. Or, does this depend on the cableco?

The short answer is no. Comcast does not allow recording from On Demand.

I don't know if there is a long answer...

Thanks for the responses. I guess this is what I expected.

If it's available OnDemand, why would you want to put it on your hard drive? Of course, you want to record it via firewire.........

Things don't stay On Demand forever...

Things don't stay On Demand forever...

Exactly. I have a two-year old who likes to watch an episode of Barney over, and over, and over, ad infinitum. It is available On Demand until August 17. Maybe it's a blessing that I can't record it.

The short answer is no. Comcast does not allow recording from On Demand. I don't know if there is a long answer...

Long answer: You can record to tape or DVD, but not to the HD.

If it's available OnDemand, why would you want to put it on your hard drive?

One reason is that programs are not actually available on demand. They're available only if others haven't demanded them first. You may get error messages when trying t0 d/l a popular On Demand program.