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.

Good, then that means I'll be able to find it on my TV's QAM tuner and watch for free instead of purchasing it! I still can't believe they don't encrypt it, but I think I understand why from a technical perspective. I'm just waiting for some stupid parent to sue the tv manufactuer or Comcast when little johnny or susie stumbles upon an "adult" program because they are too dumb to program a V-chip or the tv's channel blocking capabilities.

Hi all,

Is it possible to connect the 3412 to a display via HDMI, while simultaneously listening to 5.1 audio via the SP/DIF connector? This used to be an issue on the 6412. I believe the problem was that the audio "coming out of" the SP/DIF (Toslink) connector would change from 5.1, to 2-channel PCM(?) as soon as the box sensed a TV on the other end of the HDMI cable. Is this still an issue? I searched this thread, but saw conflicting information.

I just bought an HDMI-able display and will need to purchase longer cables. Should I buy a longer component cable, or a long HDMI cable? (By "long", I mean 10 foot or so.) I'd like to use the HDMI output of the 3412, but only if it doesn't screw up the digital audio stream going to my AV receiver....

Good, then that means I'll be able to find it on my TV's QAM tuner and watch for free instead of purchasing it! I still can't believe they don't encrypt it, but I think I understand why from a technical perspective. I'm just waiting for some stupid parent to sue the tv manufactuer or Comcast when little johnny or susie stumbles upon an "adult" program because they are too dumb to program a V-chip or the tv's channel blocking capabilities.

Actually, adult VOD content is encrypted and cannot be viewed with a QAM TV. Don't you worry, Comcast has that loophole covered already. Non-adult content is not encrypted. Yet.. Soon.

Hi all,

Is it possible to connect the 3412 to a display via HDMI, while simultaneously listening to 5.1 audio via the SP/DIF connector? This used to be an issue on the 6412. I believe the problem was that the audio "coming out of" the SP/DIF (Toslink) connector would change from 5.1, to 2-channel PCM(?) as soon as the box sensed a TV on the other end of the HDMI cable. Is this still an issue? I searched this thread, but saw conflicting information.

I just bought an HDMI-able display and will need to purchase longer cables. Should I buy a longer component cable, or a long HDMI cable? (By "long", I mean 10 foot or so.) I'd like to use the HDMI output of the 3412, but only if it doesn't screw up the digital audio stream going to my AV receiver....

The 3412 outputs 5.1 over S/PDIF just fine when connecting an HDMI cable. I have been doing it for a few months now.

Is it possible to connect the 3412 to a display via HDMI, while simultaneously listening to 5.1 audio via the SP/DIF connector?

I have mine set up this way and I've had no problems with it. I get 5.1 on the programs that have it.

I have mine set up this way and I've had no problems with it. I get 5.1 on the programs that have it.
Same here.

shane

Well, that's excellent news. I'm glad that issue got resolved. Somebody should note that development in the bug section of the Wiki. Thanks for the responses.

I'm off to MonoPrice to order an HDMI cable...

Just make sure that in the HDMI user menu, that the HDMI audio setting is set to "pass through". I was recently having a problem until I found this menu setting in the "hidden" menu. (push the power button and then the menu button immediately)

Thanks, AR. I'll double check that.

-Dave

Has anyone checked if this works? I am, of course, referring to the Comcast-issued/subscribed units. I got a 3412 about a week ago, and have no issues. Before I call Comcast and ask, wondering if anyone here has tried it. If I can have one less piece of hardware, I'd prefer that.
--E

No it does not work as a cable/HSI modem. You'll need a seperate modem.

re: 5.1, I've had no problems with the 3412 via HDMI. Make sure, under Audio setup, it's set to Output -> Advanced and Stereo -> Matrix. Compression doesn't matter, that's only for the analog output.

No it does not work as a cable/HSI modem. You'll need a seperate modem.

re: 5.1, I've had no problems with the 3412 via HDMI. Make sure, under Audio setup, it's set to Output -> Advanced and Stereo -> Matrix. Compression doesn't matter, that's only for the analog output.
What will that do?

Comcast just came by today and installed two new DCT3412 in my audio cabinet. But, I have a problem how do I control both in the same room? Is there anyway to set them up so each accept different IR signals?

Comcast just came by today and installed two new DCT3412 in my audio cabinet. But, I have a problem how do I control both in the same room? Is there anyway to set them up so each accept different IR signals?


Nope.

Why did you have two installed in the same room?

Because all my A/V equipment for my house is located in one location (basement server rack) I have a Marantz SR8500 that allows Multi-Room. Where I can have two different rooms share the A/V components plugged into the Marantz.

I have two IR receivers going to one IR emitter and I want to control both DCT3412s from either IR receiver. But I don't see how I can accomplish this without having some special type of descrete IR built into the DCT3412.

I could purchase a IR block that handles two zones. But if I did this then I could only control one DCT3412 per room which I don't want to do.

Does anyone have a suggestion or workaround to my problem? Or do I need to swap out one of my DCT3412 with a DCT6412?

Swapping wouldn't help as the 64XX and 34XX use the same remote codes.

Comcast just came by today and installed two new DCT3412 in my audio cabinet. But, I have a problem how do I control both in the same room? Is there anyway to set them up so each accept different IR signals?

Sorry, but the Motorola DCT series of Cable STB use ONLY one Set of codes.

Has anyone ever tried using polarizers to separate the remote signals to two DVR's? I realize the signal could be attenuated too much for practical use, since you'd need to have a polarizer on the remote as well as each DVR, but the idea appeals to the Rube Goldberg part of me. Put a polarizing filter on the remote, with one DVR having a filter aligned with the remote and the other DVR 90 degrees off -- hold the remote level for one and perpendicular for the other. Or you could get fancy and have a rotating filter on the remote. Since I only have one DVR, it's just a mental exercise for me.

I have a 3412 connected to a new Sony 46XBR2 and I'm wondering if there are ways to make the onscreen menus look better. Anything from the DVR menu to the channel guide grid all look jagged. They also appear to be output to 4:3 rather than 16:9.

I've tried using the user menu (power off on the box then menu button on box) and no matter what I set it to for the 4:3 override (stretch, off, 480i, 480p) it's still not very sharp. All the other settings in there are correct (i.e. - 16:9 tv format, etc.).

Is there anything one can do to make the menus look better? I've searched the forum and can't seem to find anything. Apologies if I missed it posted somewhere.

The onscreen menus are 4:3.

Make sure, under Audio setup, it's set to Output -> Advanced and Stereo -> Matrix. Compression doesn't matter, that's only for the analog output.
You are correct, none of the audio settings affect the digital (SPDIF) bitstream output.

BUT -- I have had times when the bitstream output on the Moto box reverts to full-time PCM, even on DD programs. There is no menu choice for that on the Moto boxes (as there sometimes is on other devices) but I've found that turning the box off and on "fixes" it for a while.

ALSO -- Even though the set-top box audio settings don't affect the digital output, you should have the analog audio setup in case someone feeds the audio output to a VCR or uses the CH 3/4 RF outputs. (Or for those folks who don't have the cable box connected to a home theatre receiver.) The Setup>Audio Setup>Audio output should be set to "TV Speakers." In this mode, the loudness of analog and digital channels will match (according to the cable TV engineering specs.) If you set the Audio Output to "Advanced" you need to set compression to "Heavy" to achieve the same effect. The Stereo Output mode should be set to "Matrix" so that any 5.1-channel programs will come out of the analog outputs as Dolby Surround signals (ready to hook up to your old ProLogic receiver.)

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 had the original MS Ultimate TV when I was a DirecTV subscriber, and I can tell you that it was rock solid. I switched to Comcast to get better HD, and the 3412 came with the deal. What a POS, and the iGuide is miserable and buggy compared to the MS software. Maybe the software in WA state is crap, but there are always some who can't wait to say a bad word about Microsoft and their blind bias gets a little old.

I had the original MS Ultimate TV when I was a DirecTV subscriber, and I can tell you that it was rock solid. I switched to Comcast to get better HD, and the 3412 came with the deal. What a POS, and the iGuide is miserable and buggy compared to the MS software. Maybe the software in WA state is crap, but there are always some who can't wait to say a bad word about Microsoft and their blind bias gets a little old.

Yep, the WA state software is crap. Comcast pretty much admits it, they keep telling us about all the bug fixes and improvements coming down the pike. Unfortunately, the speed limit on this particular pike appears to be about 1.4 mph.

The fact that almost every 3412/6412 bug is common to both iGuide and Microsoft guide software customers would lead me to believe that the problems are the fault of the Motorola operating system and firmware.

The fact that almost every 3412/6412 bug is common to both iGuide and Microsoft guide software customers would lead me to believe that the problems are the fault of the Motorola operating system and firmware.
I believe this is the case as well. The following is from a Star Choice forum. Star Choice also uses Motorola STBs for their satellite service.

BTW, we think we have it bad, what the folks with Star Choice are going through I wouldn't wish on my worst enemy.

Oh yeah, they buy their equipment, at about $600-700 CDN.

I have designed control software and hardware since 1975 and the cause of the issues with the 530 seem pretty obvious to me. I still haven't seen the CC code so it may differ, but I have had all previous versions and the apparent variety of symptons and malfunctions can be explained simply by the oldest trick in the book.... the failure of one or more low level interrupt functions to return the pointers and/or stack on completion of the interrupt function. It could be caused by a buffer overflow somewhere, or simply careless coding of the interrupt routine.

There is a simple test that returned the same failure for me that happens with virtually every code version on two different 530's. Set a timer to record a program on a channel other than the one running "live". Then start to watch a different recorded program, somewhere in the middle of a list of pre-recorded programs. When the new program being recorded stops - the timer hits the end and while you are still watching the recorded program, hit stop! Invariably you will be returned, correctly, to the recorded list, but at the wrong program!

The machine has returned the incorrect pointer to the program being played. In addition, the "live" channel will have changed usually to the channel that the recorded program you were watching.

However if you selected the first program in the recorded list (the earliest recording) it returns to that program. Obviously there is a patch in the high level code that recognises that the returned pointer is out of range (probably negative) and it resets it to the first valid value. The fact that this happens is evidence that the problem is known and the "fix" is simply to patch the high level code rather than find and fix the real problem.

Of course, this observation only indicates a rather benign set of symptoms. Loss of a stack pointer or a overrun buffer caused by a faulty low level function can, and invariably does, cause a huge variety of malfunctions depending on just where other routines were prior to the interrupt. Every one of the problems reported here could be caused by a one byte error in one low level interrupt routine.

The pathetic attempts we have witnessed over the past year and a half, clearly demonstrate that nobody at Motorola has got to grips with the real issue (which could arise in actual firmware or in the operation of one of the many dedicated chip sets) and their "fixes" are simply high level program patches designed to "paper over" the real problem.

http://www.digitalhomecanada.com/forum/showthread.php?p=407900#post407900
July 18th: DSR530 Code CC Fixes, Features & Bugs - Page 16 - Digital Forums

I had a 6412, it worked fine, but then one of the tuners crapped out. I called Comcast, they came and replaced the 6412 with a 3412.

Since then, every once in a while when I change channels (it seems it's only when in the lower channels but I can't be sure) my TV (Sony LCD Projection model KF-50WE610) switches to one of its Zoom modes. It never did this with the 6412.

Anyone have any idea what's going on? It's very annoying... I had to map a soft key on my Harmony remote to deal with this issue.

I had a 6412, it worked fine, but then one of the tuners crapped out. I called Comcast, they came and replaced the 6412 with a 3412.

Since then, every once in a while when I change channels (it seems it's only when in the lower channels but I can't be sure) my TV (Sony LCD Projection model KF-50WE610) switches to one of its Zoom modes. It never did this with the 6412.

If it only happens in the lower channels, my guess is that the new box has a different setting for the 4:3 Override than your old box had, e.g. 480p vs. Off, or vice versa. (To access the setting, press Power to put the unit into standby mode, then immediately press Menu.)

Hi everybody.

I have looked around but was not able to find an answer to this:

Does a ComCast branded DCT3412 work on the ComCast cable network if the user does neither hold a DCT3412 contract with ComCast nor pays a monthly HDTV box lease to ComCast

a) in regards to the program guide (ComCast automated updates etc.)

b) in regards to HDTV reception (assuming that HDTV reception is generally available on said user's local ComCast network, but the user does not pay a monthly HDTV fee to ComCast)

c) in regards to localization (e.g. ComCast deployed the unit in Chicago to a user, but the unit gets connected in Miami. Will [assuming for this purpose that question a) can be answered positively] the program guide be localized to Chicago or can the user program the unit to obtain [in this example] the program guide of the Comcast Network of Miami or will the unit recognize the [in this example] Miami Network and localize itself?)

d) in regards to automated firmware updates etc.

Thanks in advance for your input/feedback! :)

Hi everybody.

I have looked around but was not able to find an answer to this:

Does a ComCast branded DCT3412 work on the ComCast cable network if the user does neither hold a DCT3412 contract with ComCast nor pays a monthly HDTV box lease to ComCast

a) in regards to the program guide (ComCast automated updates etc.)

b) in regards to HDTV reception (assuming that HDTV reception is generally available on said user's local ComCast network, but the user does not pay a monthly HDTV fee to ComCast)

c) in regards to localization (e.g. ComCast deployed the unit in Chicago to a user, but the unit gets connected in Miami. Will [assuming for this purpose that question a) can be answered positively] the program guide be localized to Chicago or can the user program the unit to obtain [in this example] the program guide of the Comcast Network of Miami or will the unit recognize the [in this example] Miami Network and localize itself?)

d) in regards to automated firmware updates etc.

Thanks in advance for your input/feedback! :)


No. Cable systems are not the same in all areas of the us.

You must have a cable account with your local comcast office.

You must rent the STB from your local Comcast Office.

The Seriel number of the unit must be listed on your account at your local node/ headend.

The box will then have to be re-authorized, so it will download the STB Software, Firmware, and IPG Software used on that Headend system.

After that the box will reboot and begin to download STB Time, your account settings and the IPG data from the headend.

Thanks in advance for your input/feedback!
Let’s see, you somehow got your hands on a 3412 from Chicago and want to hook it up to your cable and/or switch it with a non HD box in Miami - but not paying for it. I think I can help with an answer, Mr. Post # 1... Comcast controls the service from their central offices, and in a word – no. But don’t take my word for it, why not give us your name and address which we can forward to Comcast for a definitive “response”. You're welcome.

The Seriel number of the unit must be listed on your account at your local node/ headend. The box will then have to be re-authorized, so it will download the STB Software, Firmware, and IPG Software used on that Headend system.

Yeah, I was kinda surprised, couldn't even play back recorded stuff from the HDD without a re-auth.

I just had a strange glitch on my 3412. While back in Sturgis, I had the DVR set to record a 1-hour program. When I returned & watched it, after about 15 minutes into the program, it jumped over approx. 20 minutes. The green bar showed the entire program -- the slider actually jumped ahead on the bar. I never could get it to play the missing segment. After the jump, the rest played OK. Anyone else seen this?

Let’s see, you somehow got your hands on a 3412 from Chicago and want to hook it up to your cable and/or switch it with a non HD box in Miami - but not paying for it. I think I can help with an answer, Mr. Post # 1... Comcast controls the service from their central offices, and in a word – no. But don’t take my word for it, why not give us your name and address which we can forward to Comcast for a definitive “response”. You're welcome.
a) scanpa: THANK YOU for your clear and detailed answer. I appreciate your subject oriented approach and the time you've invested in your answer.

b) bigalw22: OPPOSITE from a). This is a forum about a certain subject matter and not a place for deprecating suspicions. But I guess that is the kind of person you are, no answer / input to the subject matter, but a negative attitude...

If you MUST know (and a person like you obviously does): There was, in certain markets in the US and for certain VIP customers (members of the ComCast Management Pension Fund) a 'purchase option' ComCast offered during 2005, my mother purchased one, but she lived at the time in Chicago, IL and wants now to move to Miami, FL into a condo where the owners association pays for the cable, hence she will not have her own account and can hence not make any additions, so she can not add the DVR and HDTV to the account of the condo owners association.

Anyway, my question has been answered, so no reply necessary "Mr. Post #35" (aka "bigalw22"). Thanks again scanpa!

Verizon has just announced deployment of the Motorola QIP6416 DVR. It appears that the QIP6416 is just a 3416 with MoCA added. MoCA is Motorola's scheme for using the home coax connecting all their digital STBS, to distribute recorded video on the QIP6416 to other rooms.

scanpa has told us that Comcast is not buying any more STB's from Motorola. Does this mean no room to room video distribution is in the works at Comcast, or do the future Panasonics have this kind of capability too?

... my mother purchased one, but she lived at the time in Chicago, IL and wants now to move to Miami, FL into a condo where the owners association pays for the cable, hence she will not have her own account and can hence not make any additions, so she can not add the DVR and HDTV to the account of the condo owners association.
...

My father lives in a senior apartment complex where they furnish the cable service from Comcast, i.e., included with the rent.

I called Comcast to see if we could add digital services since the apartment complex only provides "standard" analog cable service. The Comcast rep told me they have a way to create a separate account for my Dad and link it to the apartment complex account, such that he can add services beyond basic and be billed for the additional services separately.

So, I would call Comcast to see what your options might be for adding services beyond those provided by the condo owners' association.

I have no knowledge or experience to offer regarding the STB itself.

I just had a strange glitch on my 3412. While back in Sturgis, I had the DVR set to record a 1-hour program. When I returned & watched it, after about 15 minutes into the program, it jumped over approx. 20 minutes. The green bar showed the entire program -- the slider actually jumped ahead on the bar. I never could get it to play the missing segment. After the jump, the rest played OK. Anyone else seen this?
Most likely it lost the signal for the missing time, so it recorded nothing.

They finely had most of the bugs worked out of the 6412 via firmware upgrades and what do they do, give me a 3412 POS with many of the same problems the 6412 originally had, what a crock of BS. :mad:

I again have a receiver that will not work as it should, it acts like a computer low on memory. After a few pauses, fast forwards (or 30 sec. skip) and so on it freezes. I either get a black screen or a freeze frame and can not play another program or the rest of the program I am trying to watch. If I go to live and then try to play something it will not leave the live program. A power off (unplug) of course helps but not for very long.

This era of electronics we are in is amazing. We are expected to pay top dollar for products that almost work and sometimes never do work right (dish DVR921).

I hope the firmware upgrades come faster than they did with the 6412.

Steve


P.S. what is the diff. between the 3412 and the 3416?

P.S. what is the diff. between the 3412 and the 3416?

40GB.

They finely had most of the bugs worked out of the 6412 via firmware upgrades and what do they do, give me a 3412 POS with many of the same problems the 6412 originally had, what a crock of BS. :mad:

I again have a receiver that will not work as it should, it acts like a computer low on memory. After a few pauses, fast forwards (or 30 sec. skip) and so on it freezes. I either get a black screen or a freeze frame and can not play another program or the rest of the program I am trying to watch. If I go to live and then try to play something it will not leave the live program. A power off (unplug) of course helps but not for very long.

This era of electronics we are in is amazing. We are expected to pay top dollar for products that almost work and sometimes never do work right (dish DVR921).

I hope the firmware upgrades come faster than they did with the 6412.

Steve


P.S. what is the diff. between the 3412 and the 3416?


the last 2 digits are the size of the HDD.

The 3 Models available from /\/\otorola in the 3400 series STB are


3412 = 120GB HDD
3416 = 160GB HDD
3432 = 320GB HDD

the last 2 digits are the size of the HDD.
The 3 Models available from /\/\otorola in the 3400 series STB are
3412 = 120GB HDD
3416 = 160GB HDD
3432 = 320GB HDD

Does anyone actually have a 3432?

Does anyone actually have a 3432?

We have a few at the head end, for play. AFAIK, no MSO has been renting them out to customer's.

Most likely it lost the signal for the missing time, so it recorded nothing.

That might seem plausible if it played thru "nothing", but in this case, the pointer jumps on the timeline, totally skipping the missing period. Probably just an undocumented Motorola "feature".

-vic

That might seem plausible if it played thru "nothing", but in this case, the pointer jumps on the timeline, totally skipping the missing period. Probably just an undocumented Motorola "feature".
If it was a digital signal, there was no data recorded at all. That is why it jumps when it gets an updated timestamp. You may be able to single-step through the jump to see if there is some blank screens. (To single step, hit pause to pause, then each additional press of pause will jump one frame at a time.)

I have the 3412. I have justed connected to the TV via the HDMI. For some reason I can no longer control the TV volume using the Comcast remote. The TV is Samsung 6187. Any Suggestions.

I don't know what you mean by "no longer control," but check out the remote instructions on Wiki -- http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR/Programming_the_Remote

I meant the volume. I can still control the TV volume if I use the component connection. However, when I switch to HDMI, the volume control no loner works with the Comcast remote (I have to use the TV remote).

See http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR/Programming_the_Remote#Volume_Lock for volume control.

I have Comcast in Michigan, and use a 6412 P2 box. I was thinking of getting a new box, hopefully a 3416. But, after reading what Sundance says above, I'm not sure I should switch yet. What's the concensus? Apart from more GB, is a 3416 better than a 6412? what would I gain, or lose? Do they charge more for the 3416 than the 6412? Or, should I just reformat my HDD, to get rid of all those 12/31/89 recordings ;) , and wait for better things to come?

I have Comcast in Michigan, and use a 6412 P2 box. I was thinking of getting a new box, hopefully a 3416. But, after reading what Sundance says above, I'm not sure I should switch yet. What's the concensus? Apart from more GB, is a 3416 better than a 6412? what would I gain, or lose? Do they charge more for the 3416 than the 6412? Or, should I just reformat my HDD, to get rid of all those 12/31/89 recordings ;) , and wait for better things to come?
What box you gets is more or less a crapshoot. You really have little control over which box. If you say you need one with HDMI, you will probably get a 3412 or 6412P3. Whether you get an xx16 depends on if your area even carries it. Unless you know of somebody else who does, don't count on it.

You are correct, none of the audio settings affect the digital (SPDIF) bitstream output.
I'm pretty sure it has to be set to "Matrix" in order to get AC3 (5.1 ch.) out of the digital port, otherwise you'll only get PCM (2-channel). At least, I know with the older DCT boxes (the non-HD boxes), that was the case. I guess I haven't tried it lately, that's always the first setting I change...
BUT -- I have had times when the bitstream output on the Moto box reverts to full-time PCM, even on DD programs. There is no menu choice for that on the Moto boxes (as there sometimes is on other devices) but I've found that turning the box off and on "fixes" it for a while.Now this is simply one of the oldest bugs with the DVR DCT boxes, I'm afraid you'll have to wait for a s/w update (or swap the box for a newer one). I haven't had that particular problem with my 3412 if that helps you at all (lord knows I've had every single other problem, though...)

I'm pretty sure it has to be set to "Matrix" in order to get AC3 (5.1 ch.) out of the digital port, otherwise you'll only get PCM (2-channel). At least, I know with the older DCT boxes (the non-HD boxes), that was the case. I guess I haven't tried it lately, that's always the first setting I change...
Now this is simply one of the oldest bugs with the DVR DCT boxes, I'm afraid you'll have to wait for a s/w update (or swap the box for a newer one). I haven't had that particular problem with my 3412 if that helps you at all (lord knows I've had every single other problem, though...)

As a tech who works on these STB daily, The Audio Menu settings do NOT effect the Digital Audio Output in any way......

The Matrix Audio setting gives a Wider surround & Stereo Effect in analog Audio Signals.

I know this has been discussed before but I wanted to summarize my findings. My 6412 finally died and I had to replace it with the 3412. I'm noticing a consistent pattern.

1) If I'm watching or recording an HD channel, then when I tune to a non-HD digital channel the picture stutters. It freezes for a moment and then catches up. As has been suggested by others, if I change channels to another non-HD channel and then go back to the channel, the stutter goes away.

2) If I record a nonHD digital channel and the live picture shows the stutter, the recorded show records smoothly.

3) If I'm taping an HD channel and a non-HD digital channel at the same time, the stutter will occur if I watch the non-HD channel "live" but does not if I watch it slightly delayed. I cannot use the "change to another non-HD channel" strategy here because I'm already recording two stations.

So, it this how it goes? Is this a 3412 problem? I'm in Seattle so I have the Microsoft software.


Art

I
If I'm watching or recording an HD channel, then when I tune to a non-HD digital channel the picture stutters. It freezes for a moment and then catches up. As has been suggested by others, if I change channels to another non-HD channel and then go back to the channel, the stutter goes away.
Art

On my 3412 with Iguide I see the same thing. However, I don't really have to change the channel to fix it. It's enough to just hit pause and then play. In fact any of the motion controls kills the stutter from then on.

I have been working with Comcast people in the Twin Cities on this annoying issue and the solution is a firmware update for the 3412. I was told two weeks ago they may download this update in mid-September.

My wife and I just upgraded both our boxes to get HDMI. We now have 2 3412 boxes attached to a Sony Bravia 46XBR2 and a Sharp Aquos LC-26DA5U respectively. The box on the Sony is working great, but the one on the Sharp has a problem when switching between an SD channel and an HD channel. When switching from any SD channel to any HD channel, the aspect ratio distorts and stretches the entire right side completely off the screen and the rest of the screen is distorted to a very high degree.

The only fix for the problem is to turn off the set and turn it back on. So, I assume it's some sort of HDMI handshake issue. I don't see the problem going from HD channel to HD channel or from SD channel to SD channel. The previous Moto box from Comcast was connected via component and we didn't have this issue.

Has anyone seen this? Any fixes besides the workaround I've described here. I've tried various settings both on the set and on the 3412 to no avail. Any help would be appreciated.

Did you try rolling your 2 boxes? See if the box you have hooked up to the Sony has the same problem when you have it hooked up to the Sharp. If the issue doesn't happen with the Sony box get the Sharp box replaced. If you have the same issue, you just might need to go back to component on the Sharp. There might be a HDMI coding issue with the Sharp TV.

Did you try rolling your 2 boxes? See if the box you have hooked up to the Sony has the same problem when you have it hooked up to the Sharp. If the issue doesn't happen with the Sony box get the Sharp box replaced. If you have the same issue, you just might need to go back to component on the Sharp. There might be a HDMI coding issue with the Sharp TV.

Comcast actually gave us another box. So, it happens on multiple 3412 units. I've suspected the Sharp to be the problem and was just curious if anyone had seen the same issue and knew of a fix.

Couldn't see what other forum/thread this fit into, and I like the brainpower here, so here goes:

Equipment doesn't seemt to matter too much, but I have a 3412 hooked up to my Samsung LN-S3251D. Picture was fine, until I hooked up all the coax jacks in my house to an 8-way splitter. Now it appears the signal is being weakened, so I do have some loss, blotchy picture at times (in addition to the known "stutter" issue, but that is another problem).

I was thinking of purchasing a signal amplifier, such as the PCT or Motorola units. My question is, do these actually work? Any preferences? If I install them outside the house, does Comcast care?

Thanks, everyone! scanpa, I'm sure I speak for many here when I say your input is highly appreciated.

Couldn't see what other forum/thread this fit into, and I like the brainpower here, so here goes:

Equipment doesn't seemt to matter too much, but I have a 3412 hooked up to my Samsung LN-S3251D. Picture was fine, until I hooked up all the coax jacks in my house to an 8-way splitter. Now it appears the signal is being weakened, so I do have some loss, blotchy picture at times (in addition to the known "stutter" issue, but that is another problem).

I was thinking of purchasing a signal amplifier, such as the PCT or Motorola units. My question is, do these actually work? Any preferences? If I install them outside the house, does Comcast care?

Thanks, everyone! scanpa, I'm sure I speak for many here when I say your input is highly appreciated.


Yes, I would say you need an amplifier. An 8 way splitter is down 12db of signal at each output from the original input. That is a lot of signal lost. Do not use an 8 way splitter if a 3 or 4 way will do because they don't drop as much signal. Comcast can supply you with a 15db amp at a reasonable price that should solve the problem. The amp should be installed close to the splitter if possible. You will need an AC outlet reasonably near by. Instead of being 12db down at each output of the splitter, a 15db amp should get you back to about +3db at each output. All of this assumes the signal reaching your house is in good shape.

I have a 6 way splitter along with a Channel Plus 15db amp. That solved all of the issues within my house with the exception of the long run of thinner F-59 cable running to my Master Bedroom. I use the 15db amp Comcast gave me along with the Channel Plus amp to provide a little extra push of signal for my Master Bedroom.

.....so I do have some loss, blotchy picture at times (in addition to the known "stutter" issue, but that is another problem).

So, is the stutter issue where one sees the macroblocking/pixelization occur randomly for a brief moment or so? We never had that with our previous model, but our new 3412 does it numerous times per day.

Also, when we record from HBOHD, sometimes the programs become completely unwatchable - audio drops out completely and the picture becomes 100% pixelated. On the first 3412 we had the program would be that way from start to finish. Now, with the second box that they brought as a replacement we might have a program that records all the way through with no issue, but it might drop out suddenly during the recording and not recover. Again, this only happens on HBOHD and not on other HD channels. Both boxes are running the latest firmware (12.31, I think).

Any advice would be greatly appreciated. I don't have much faith in Comcast to solve this (based on the last 2 techs I spoke with).

My wife and I just upgraded both our boxes to get HDMI. We now have 2 3412 boxes attached to a Sony Bravia 46XBR2 and a Sharp Aquos LC-26DA5U respectively. The box on the Sony is working great, but the one on the Sharp has a problem when switching between an SD channel and an HD channel. When switching from any SD channel to any HD channel, the aspect ratio distorts and stretches the entire right side completely off the screen and the rest of the screen is distorted to a very high degree.

The only fix for the problem is to turn off the set and turn it back on. So, I assume it's some sort of HDMI handshake issue. I don't see the problem going from HD channel to HD channel or from SD channel to SD channel. The previous Moto box from Comcast was connected via component and we didn't have this issue.

Has anyone seen this? Any fixes besides the workaround I've described here. I've tried various settings both on the set and on the 3412 to no avail. Any help would be appreciated.Turn the box off and then push MENU. Scroll down and set the "4:3 override" to OFF. Then hit power off, and power on again.

You will have black bars on 4:3 programs (pillarboxed) but it will upconvert everything to HD resolution, so the TV doesn't have to switch modes.

I'm having absolutely no luck getting my Motorola 3412 to work with my NEC 50XR5 plasma via HDMI when going through my Marantz SR8500 A/V Receiver.

Here is a brief description of how my system is configured:

1. I'm running a HDMI-to-DVI and SDIF cable from my Motorola 3412 to my SR8500.
2. From my SR8500 I'm running DVI-to-HDMI to my 50XR5
3. Within the Menu setting on Motorola 3412 I've tried DVI and HDMI mode.

I either get white snow or a blue screen saying something about copy protection error switch to component cables.

Has anyone successful gotten HDMI or DVI to work via a A/V Receiver with the Motorola 3412?

I'm having absolutely no luck getting my Motorola 3412 to work with my NEC 50XR5 plasma via HDMI when going through my Marantz SR8500 A/V Receiver.

Here is a brief description of how my system is configured:

1. I'm running a HDMI-to-DVI and SDIF cable from my Motorola 3412 to my SR8500.
2. From my SR8500 I'm running DVI-to-HDMI to my 50XR5
3. Within the Menu setting on Motorola 3412 I've tried DVI and HDMI mode.

I either get white snow or a blue screen saying something about copy protection error switch to component cables.

Has anyone successful gotten HDMI or DVI to work via a A/V Receiver with the Motorola 3412?

I could not get HDMI to work in a similar situation. I e-mailed a Comcast hardware guru I know and he told me the current firmware in the 3412 will not allow you to connect HDMI through an A/V receiver. You need to go straight to the TV with your HDMI connection. I was also told this issue would be addressed in the next firmware update for the 3412.

I'm sure some people have gotten certain combinations of equipment to work, but in the case of my friends 3412, Denon AVR-2807 and Mits DLP I could not make it work unless I connected the HDMI straight to the TV.

My 3412 seems to be very heat sensitive. I had the unit in a component cabinet (open back). When the house is warm, the top of the box gets quite hot. The unit was positioned within an inch or two of the glass shelf above. Anyway, this seems to cause problems in that the optical digital audio output cuts out. I moved the box so there is now more room above the box to see if this helps.

In any event, Comcast owns the box so if its yolk fries, I don't care.

Is this typical for this STB?

dan57,

That is typical for many brands and models of HDTV STBs/DVRs.

My 3412 seems to be very heat sensitive. I had the unit in a component cabinet (open back). When the house is warm, the top of the box gets quite hot. The unit was positioned within an inch or two of the glass shelf above. Anyway, this seems to cause problems in that the optical digital audio output cuts out. I moved the box so there is now more room above the box to see if this helps.

In any event, Comcast owns the box so if its yolk fries, I don't care.

Is this typical for this STB?


Yes, they need a lot of ventilation to reduce problems. Many people have resorted to using laptop chill pads or fans to move air when in an enclosed environment in order to stop some problems from occuring.

Since you don't care, don't complain when the machine crashes and you lose all you recordings or you exprience problems with stuttering, lost audio/video signals or recording problems.

Turn the box off and then push MENU. Scroll down and set the "4:3 override" to OFF. Then hit power off, and power on again.

You will have black bars on 4:3 programs (pillarboxed) but it will upconvert everything to HD resolution, so the TV doesn't have to switch modes.

That works perfectly. Thanks! I'd tried several settings on the 4:3 override (including stretch, 480i, etc.), but none of them worked.

Thanks again. Why can't Comcast figure things out for their customers? Just not a very bright lot in my experience.

My 3412 seems to be very heat sensitive. I had the unit in a component cabinet (open back). When the house is warm, the top of the box gets quite hot. The unit was positioned within an inch or two of the glass shelf above. Anyway, this seems to cause problems in that the optical digital audio output cuts out. I moved the box so there is now more room above the box to see if this helps.


Wikibooks used to have a nice section on DVR temperature at http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR

Dunno what happened to it, maybe it got revised somewhere.

Anyway, you can check the temp in the diagnostic menu (power off > Select > d13 > Select > down arrow to second screen.

It said most users find the box running at 100-135 degrees.

Thanks in advance for any help. I have a Motorola dual tuner high def box. I keep it on all the time. I run an optical cable for audio to my receiver. My receiver displays a blue light when it receives a surround signal. Very often, the receiver will only say "PCM" when I tune to a surround broadcast. If I turn the Motorola box off and back on, the receiver gets the surround signal and the blue light comes on.

I don't understand why the cable box, at some point, stops sending the correct signal until it is powered off and on.

Thanks again.

This is a known issue discussed many times in this and the 64xx thread. It is rumored to be fixed in a later firmware. You are doing the recommended solution according to:

http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR/Bugs#The_box_may_switch_from_sending_Dolby_Digital_out_of_th e_digital_outputs_to_PCM

Wikibooks used to have a nice section on DVR temperature at http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR

Dunno what happened to it, maybe it got revised somewhere.
It's under 'Configuration':
http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR/Configuration

I just got a firmware update (from 12.31 to 12.35) in Seattle, and the response to remote commands seems to have improved dramatically. Perhaps I'll try the firewire again.

(Nope -- firewire use still messes up the transport commands, until the 3412 power is cycled.)

I just got a firmware update (from 12.31 to 12.35) in Seattle, and the response to remote commands seems to have improved dramatically.

Do you periodically check the firmware version, or is there something that notifies you of an update? Looks like I'm also at 12.35, hafta check out the remote...

Someone posted a query on the Seattle Comcast board this morning, asking why his box acted strangely, with a "d1" on the display. That alerted me to check my version. The Microsoft guide s/w also updated from 25129S to 25145S.

I had a 6412 which worked fine but then one of the tuners died. Comcast replaced the box with a 3412. Since that was installed, I notice that occasionally on one of the lower channels the picture will freeze up for a fraction of a second. The audio is fine. After the freeze, the picture will "catch up" with the audio and all will be well for a bit. This may happen repeatedly. At other times, the picture is fine. It only seems to happen on a couple channels and I've never seen it happen on the upper or HD channels.

I've had Comcast in twice, and of course, all they do is replace the box. Both replacement boxes exhibit the same behavior. The 6412 never did this as far as I can recall.

Both the times I've had Comcast in, the box failed to exhibit the behavior, yet a few hours later it did it again. I'm beginning to think the problem only happens in the evening when I'm much more likely to be watching. Can this be?

Does anyone have any idea what's going on?

How do you determine what firmware version you are currently running?

I just got a firmware update (from 12.31 to 12.35) in Seattle, and the response to remote commands seems to have improved dramatically. Perhaps I'll try the firewire again.

(Nope -- firewire use still messes up the transport commands, until the 3412 power is cycled.)

How do you determine what firmware version you are currently running?

Menu > Settings > Cable Box Options > Diagnostics > GIOS

Comcast replaced the box with a 3412. Since that was installed, I notice that occasionally on one of the lower channels the picture will freeze up for a fraction of a second. The audio is fine. After the freeze, the picture will "catch up" with the audio and all will be well for a bit. This may happen repeatedly. At other times, the picture is fine. It only seems to happen on a couple channels and I've never seen it happen on the upper or HD channels.
Known bug with the 3412. Usually happens when switching from a HD channel to a SD/ADS channel (ie. ch 2-32 or so). Hit Pause, let it stay paused for 3-4 seconds, then play. That will stop the glitching. But you'll have to do this each time you go from HD to SD channel.

If it's happening all the time, might be a low signal level.

Maybe I missing something but I don't see any "Settings" option under Menu.

My understanding is there is two ways to go into the Menu:

1. Power off unit hit Menu
2. During Power On hit Menu

Neither I see the sub-menu called "Settings"


Menu > Settings > Cable Box Options > Diagnostics > GIOS

Nevermind I figured it out. I'm still running 12.31. The Interest question is whether 12.35 fixed the HDMI issue.

Maybe I missing something but I don't see any "Settings" option under Menu.

My understanding is there is two ways to go into the Menu:

1. Power off unit hit Menu
2. During Power On hit Menu

Neither I see the sub-menu called "Settings"

Maybe I missing something but I don't see any "Settings" option under Menu.

The instructions posted were for the Microsoft guide. Here is a reference for iGuide:
http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR/Firmware_and_Software#How_To_Check_Your_Firmware_and_Softwar e_Versions_.28i-Guide.29

Nevermind I figured it out. I'm still running 12.31. The Interest question is whether 12.35 fixed the HDMI issue.

I can't tell, since I don't have an HDMI connection to my TV. Any other issues to check?

What the heck?! All of my recordings disappeared, and all of my scheduled recordings are gone too. I have a 3412 with the Microsoft guide software. Is a firmware update supposed to wipe the settings and recordings? I suppose there's no way to get them back?

I just got back from vacation and had a bunch of stuff I needed to watch :-(

What the heck?! All of my recordings disappeared, and all of my scheduled recordings are gone too. I have a 3412 with the Microsoft guide software. Is a firmware update supposed to wipe the settings and recordings? I suppose there's no way to get them back?

No, you shouldn't lose either settings or recordings. That sounds more like the results of a DVR HDD Reset -- http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR/Resets#DVR_HDD_Reset

Sigh. When I called, they told me to come in and get a new box. Unfortunately, I won't be able to do that until at least a week from Saturday. I'm going out of town again this weekend, and on weekdays I'm at work during the times the cable store is open (or when they'd come by to bring another one). So I guess my recordings all next week are in jeopardy, unless I go back to SD and pull out one of the TiVos.

Well, since I have to swap the box out anyway (it's looking more and more like a hardware problem -- it rebooted itself again while I was watching The Office last night), I wonder if I can talk them into giving me a 3416. Has anyone here besides seanb61 received one?

Well, since I have to swap the box out anyway (it's looking more and more like a hardware problem -- it rebooted itself again while I was watching The Office last night), I wonder if I can talk them into giving me a 3416. Has anyone here besides seanb61 received one?

They may or may not have the 3416. My local office says they've heard a lot about them, but have never seen one.

I haven't heard of any 3416's in Seattle. Cox seems to have some, but the single report from Chicago is the only Comcast one I've seen mentioned. Strange that they exist but aren't readily available.

Hmm. Well, I guess I'll just have to see what I can get :-)

I'll report back if I'm able to get one. I'm going to see if I can sneak out of work early to pick one up on the way out of town tonight, so I don't have to go all week with a flaky DVR.

I had a 6412 which worked fine but then one of the tuners died. Comcast replaced the box with a 3412. Since that was installed, I notice that occasionally on one of the lower channels the picture will freeze up for a fraction of a second. The audio is fine. After the freeze, the picture will "catch up" with the audio and all will be well for a bit. This may happen repeatedly. At other times, the picture is fine. It only seems to happen on a couple channels and I've never seen it happen on the upper or HD channels.

I've had Comcast in twice, and of course, all they do is replace the box. Both replacement boxes exhibit the same behavior. The 6412 never did this as far as I can recall.

Both the times I've had Comcast in, the box failed to exhibit the behavior, yet a few hours later it did it again. I'm beginning to think the problem only happens in the evening when I'm much more likely to be watching. Can this be?

Does anyone have any idea what's going on?

I had the 5100 for years, until about a month ago, when I "upgraded" to a DVR. Comcast supplied me with the 3412, and I get these same freezing issues you mentioned. The video will freeze, and the audio simultaneously goes out. Then, I also get pure audio dropouts with the video still intact. The worst of both worlds. However, I can't recall if it only happens on the lower channels. I'll be sitting there watching TV, and these problems will occur, whether I've changed the channel or not. As mentioned, the freezing video, and/or audio dropout will then catch up to itself. This happens often enough to be a major PITA.

Is there any fix for this? If not, there's clearly no way I'm keeping this box, containing this known issue. Completely unacceptable.

Hmm. Well, I guess I'll just have to see what I can get :-)

I'll report back if I'm able to get one. I'm going to see if I can sneak out of work early to pick one up on the way out of town tonight, so I don't have to go all week with a flaky DVR.

The Redmond office is open until 6PM.

Yeah, but I need to get on the road early today, so if I get out of the office too late, I won't have time to stop over there. Also, most days I don't really pass that area until close to 6 (depending on traffic) so even on a normal day I'd want to leave a little early to safely make it in time. It doesn't seem likely to be the type of place that would stay open a few minutes late, but I could be wrong.

I had a 3412 that was almost 90% full, mostly HD movies and I was wondering how to get/free more space, well, Comcrap took care of it. On Tuesday night, it looked like it was downloading new firmware or something and on wedneday when I checked all my recorded stuff was gone, puff, nothing and it shows 0% full.

This happen to any one else?

That's exactly what I described happening to me about 10 posts ago (last night).

I had a 3412 that was almost 90% full, mostly HD movies and I was wondering how to get/free more space, well, Comcrap took care of it. On Tuesday night, it looked like it was downloading new firmware or something and on wedneday when I checked all my recorded stuff was gone, puff, nothing and it shows 0% full.

This happen to any one else?

Exact thing happened to me about a month ago, I posted about it here but received no comment (front of box showing the letters "DL" for about 5 minutes, then some others, then come back to all saved programs and season passes GONE).

I live in Seattle. All my Comcast 3412's updated by themselves to 12.35 over the last week (I actually think it was Thursday night while I was watching TV).

HDMI switching through a Denon 4306 is now fully operational!

Have fun everyone.

If you are getting a lot of glitches/freezing/dropouts, check your signal levels.

The Moto DVR boxes are much more sensitive to signal strength issues than any of the older boxes. I suppose because it has to split the signal internally for the 2 tuners.

If the signal is ok, then the problem is more likely at the source.

With the exception of the "switching from HD to SD" problem, which is pretty easily cured by pausing it for a few seconds (obviously some kind of buffer underrun) I don't have a lot of glitching problems. Certainly not anywhere near what you could call "frequent".

How the heck do you get the new firmware? I'm still at 12.31 and I badly want 12.35 firmware to get support for HDMI.

I live in Seattle. All my Comcast 3412's updated by themselves to 12.35 over the last week (I actually think it was Thursday night while I was watching TV).

HDMI switching through a Denon 4306 is now fully operational!

Have fun everyone.

I was told by Comcast customer service rep that I have to take my units into one of their local stores to get it upgraded to Firmware 12.35. That seems crazy to me. Is there no other way to upgrade the firmware on the 3412?

I was told by Comcast customer service rep that I have to take my units into one of their local stores to get it upgraded to Firmware 12.35. That seems crazy to me. Is there no other way to upgrade the firmware on the 3412?

That CSR has no clue.

Not every head end / cable plant will be using the same version of F/W.

When the Head End has a new version, they will send it out over the cable system to everyone's STB. If your STB has signal problems, then it could have missed the F/W push.

You might need to do a full factory reset / Authorizeation of your STB to get it to re-download the current version of Software and Firmware.

What are the procedures for doing a full factory reset / authorization of my STB? Does this require contacting Comcast or can I do this myself?

Has anyone in the Colorado area gotten the 12.35 firmware yet?

That CSR has no clue.

Not every head end / cable plant will be using the same version of F/W.

When the Head End has a new version, they will send it out over the cable system to everyone's STB. If your STB has signal problems, then it could have missed the F/W push.

You might need to do a full factory reset / Authorizeation of your STB to get it to re-download the current version of Software and Firmware.

What are the procedures for doing a full factory reset / authorization of my STB? Does this require contacting Comcast or can I do this myself?

Has anyone in the Colorado area gotten the 12.35 firmware yet?


Do at your own Risk!


STB Authorizeation and Factory Full Reset

*** Be warned this will erase all STB Settings & Your Cable Account Info from the STB ***

*** This will normaly (some reports that it will on the 34xx series) not delete your DVR settings or Stored Shows on the Hard Drive. ***

Reset procedure

Step 1

Unplug Power Cord from STB.

Step 2

on the STB, Press & Hold {Power & Menu} Keys while plugging the Power Cord back into the STB.

The Display should now say (BOOT)

Step 3

Let Go of the {Power & Menu} Keys and press the up or down arrow keys till you see (n DL) on the Display.

Step 4

Push the {Select} Key To begin STB Authorizeation & Downloading of current STB software, IPG software, STB / DVR Firmware from your Cable Head End. Could take up to 20+ min to download. You should see [DL] in the display with a led line moving in a square.


After it completes this Download the STB will then Reset/reboot and begin to download the Time setting info for the STB Clock & then Download your cable account info and STB settings. After this is done, it will begin to populate the IPG info. Keep your STB on Standby/Off mode to speed up the IPG Data download. Could take up to 24 Hours to fill in all 2 weeks of IPG info.

I have been battling problems with 3412 boxes for months now. After multiple visits, the idiots at Comcast finally got the signal strength where it should be, and MOST of the pixelation/freezing has gone away. I had read that these boxes were sensitive to voltage fluctuations, so I got a UPS with voltage regulation in addition to battery backup. I thought it would be a good idea to have it on the DLP as well for the cooling fan in case of power failure.

Guess what? As soon as I plugged everything in to the UPS, I started getting dropouts and "no input signal" indications. Obviously, the box doesn't like the UPS, which makes no sense at all.

Any idea what is going on here?

Last night I did a factory reset and authoraization on both my 3412 DVRs and this didn't upgrade my firmware from 12.31 to 12.35. So either I did something wrong or this fireware isn't available yet in the Denver area.

Anyone living in the Denver area with the 3412, I'd love to know if you get the 12.35 firmware.

Last night I did a factory reset and authoraization on both my 3412 DVRs and this didn't upgrade my firmware from 12.31 to 12.35. So either I did something wrong or this fireware isn't available yet in the Denver area.

Anyone living in the Denver area with the 3412, I'd love to know if you get the 12.35 firmware.


You don't get individual firmware. If anyone has 12.35 in your head end area, you all have it. I'd say it isn't available in your head end yet.

In WA State we have the Microsoft software. They updated that and the firmware at the same time.

If you are in another State whether it is upgraded would probably depend on whether a compatible version of the TV guide software is available.

My FF/REW is much better with the update, at least it doesn't totally ignore the remote. However FF1 is a little weird and seems to stutter. Its like its pause and FF at the same time.

During Live mode, does the STB send the buffered signal to my TV, or the actual live signal?

i'm wondering if the buffered signal (and the recorded version) is heavily compressed compared to the live signal, hence degrading PQ. If yes, is there a way to disable the buffer?

thanks..

The signal is buffered before it goes to the TV, but it isn't compressed or otherwise altered. There is no way to disable the buffering.

The signal is buffered before it goes to the TV, but it isn't compressed or otherwise altered.
If you are receiving a digital channel, the live signal is already compressed, although there is no difference between the live signal and the buffered one. (It isn't further compressed.)

During Live mode, does the STB send the buffered signal to my TV, or the actual live signal?

i'm wondering if the buffered signal (and the recorded version) is heavily compressed compared to the live signal, hence degrading PQ. If yes, is there a way to disable the buffer?

thanks..

Comcast does not compress any of there cable signals. The signal from the STB is the same as what comes out of the HeadEnd.

Grrrrr.

As I posted previously, my old DVR apparently reset and lost all of my shows and all of my programmed recordings, then later spontaneously rebooted while I was watching a show. The Comcast CSR told me that the hard drive was probably failing, and that I should swap the box for a new one. So Friday evening on the way out of town for the weekend, I stopped by the Comcast office in Redmond to swap out my box (BTW, no 3416s were available -- the woman knew about them, but said she had no idea when they'd be getting them here).

I got back into town last night, and sat down to watch the Emmys. Less than two hours in, the new box rebooted itself. It didn't lose the recorded programs or anything, but obviously it interrupted my viewing and also interrupted the recording that was going on. The previous box never did this once until the trouble started last Thursday.

This time, I may have triggered it, since I was interacting with the box at the time (though this type of thing has never triggered a reset for me before, and it definitely should not). Here's what I did:

I was watching the Emmy Red carpet coverage on E. I was simultaneously recording the coverage on NBC. A commercial came on, so I decided to see what had happened on NBC. I hit "My DVR," and played the NBC coverage. I FF3'ed through most of it, until I hit the end. Then I hit "live TV" to go back to E!, and the box rebooted.

Again, I've done this before without a crash, and this isn't really an unreasonable use case. Further, I've never had any crashes of these boxes until late last week, and now this is the third (if you count the "all recordings deleted" as a similar incident, and assuming none have happened when I wasn't watching). The time it rebooted itself Thursday night, I wasn't interacting with the DVR at all, so this isn't a case of tickling the same bug twice. Either something has changed, or I've suddenly had a run of bad luck.

I'm so frustrated with this thing! I need reliability in my TV recording. This is not too much to ask for. I've had TiVos since 2000, and never lost a single show. Like I said before, I was actually ok with the Comcast DVR, even though I miss the UI on my TiVos. It was doing the job, and generally wasn't nearly as bad as I'd been lead to believe from some of the complaints I've seen online. But reliability is an absolute requirement. If I can't trust it, it's not useful to me.

I guess I'm hoping that I've just unluckily gotten another bad box, and swapping it again will solve the problem. But I'm also not looking forward to having to go over there again, re-program all of my channel listings and recordings again, etc..

You tried to FF thru a recording as it was being made?
:eek:

I'm surpised the box didn't catch on fire.

Seriously, don't do that. I don't even use FF (or REW) at all, they will cause the DVR to crash eventually. Just use the 15/30 sec skips.

You tried to FF thru a recording as it was being made?
:eek:

I'm surpised the box didn't catch on fire.

Seriously, don't do that. I don't even use FF (or REW) at all, they will cause the DVR to crash eventually. Just use the 15/30 sec skips.

I FF through timer recordings "in progress" all the time with my 6412, and haven't had a problem. But, I rarely FF them all the way to live, and NEVER hit the "Live" button while watching a recording in progress. For some reason the box doesn't like that!

Hmm. Well, I used to to that all the time on TiVo and it never had a problem. I don't have a hard time buying that the Comcast DVR doesn't like it, but it should be able to handle it gracefully. The correct response to the user doing something unacceptable is to show an error (or refuse to do it), not to crash.

Also, in the land of Microsoft TV, we don't have 15/30 second skips available, so we have no choice but to use FF/RW. I suspect that any issues with FF/RR and "Live" are quite different between iGuide and the MS software (but they both certainly seem to have issues).

So, what is the accepted way of bouncing back and forth between two programs without losing the buffer for either one (as just changing the channel back and forth would do)? Is there an accepted way to do that?

With my two tuner 6412, I can be replaying, or even paused, in one or both tuners' buffers at the same time, by swapping tuners, not "last channel."

How do you swap tuners? I've never been able to figure out how to do that.

Well, we have iGuide here... I don't know if it's different for Microsoft. But on my silver remote there's a small black SWAP button down at the bottom. It's the only button in that section that does anything (PIP, HDZOOM, etc.. do nothing).

As far as 15/30sec skip, you may have to hack the remote to get the codes.

I haven't found any way to swap tuners manually in MSFT Land. The swapping is done automatically when necessary, and the "swap" feature doesn't work, so there doesn't seem to be a way to preserve the buffer contents when switching channels.

I just got a 3416 and Comcast doesn't even know how to set it up! I can't get it to transmit signal to my new Panasonic TC-32LX60 via HDMI. I've confirmed that the box is working by hooking it up the old-fashioned way. Comcast walked me thru the menu on the 3416 and I didn't see an HDMI output setting. I have the cabling done correctly, what am I missing? Motorola doesn't have a manual for this on their website, Comcast has no info at all--I ended up googling for info while the Comcast rep asked ME questions! help--I just need some instrux, I'm certain I'm missing something obvious. thanks.

I've been using the DCT3412 I for about a month with my garbage 19" CRT. I finally made the jump up to a Sony Bravia KDL-40S2000 HDTV, but am now experiencing some problems with my setup (looks like I jumped into a lion's den here with all the issues the 3412 seems to have).

1) While using HDMI, every time I switch from HD to SD or vice versa, there's a chance that the TV will go blank and display nothing but a black screen. It's not off, since you can still see some light from the TV, but everything is black. Audio is still there, and if I switch channels, the box appears to still work, but the picture remains black. I've also tried switching video inputs on the TV itself, and you can tell that the TV is switching, but the strange thing is that you do not see any of the white video labels while switching video modes. In fact, nothing brings the TV out of this blanked out sleep state unless I turn the TV off and then back on. When viewing through comoponent cables, this problem never occurs.

2) On both component and HDMI cables, when I switch from HD to SD, the SD channel is sometimes jittery and freezes for about half a second every 5 seconds or so. Going from SD to SD fixes the problem, and HD channels never skip going from SD to HD or HD to HD.

Sorry to add to the already long list of problems, but I'm not much of an expert with these things and found a lot of the current posts in this thread a bit over my head. Can anybody help? Please tell me the problems are with the box and not with the TV...

Thanks!

My box has rebooted twice more tonight since I've been home, so I think the "FF through a recording program" thing was just a coincidence. Lately it seems like it's been happening when it tries to start recording something, but I'm not totally sure. That could be random too. In any case, it's not working right. I guess I'll go get yet another tomorrow.

My Comcast Internet connection was also out from at least 4:30pm until 8:45pm. Not a happy Comcast night for me :-p

I just got a 3416 and Comcast doesn't even know how to set it up! I can't get it to transmit signal to my new Panasonic TC-32LX60 via HDMI.

Nothing should be necessary to get a signal on HDMI. I don't think there's even a way to turn it off if you wanted to. I've always just plugged it in and it worked. Are you sure your HDMI cable is good?

recently got HD cable installed with a DVR since thats the only box they carry that has a Firewire output. I got the cable last week and decided to test it out.

I have the link to a few online guides on how to get this to work, but cannot actually follow them as I dont get that far.

Initially I tried this in Windows 2000, but the OS did not detect the DCT. I was later told that it was the fault of windows, so I went out and bought a firewire card for the XP system I have (my previous Win2k systems do not like WinXP). So once again, I plug the DCT into the Firewire port, nothing happens, WinXP does not detect the device.

What I have done so far.

I have a DV camcorder and can plug that in and get the OS to detect a device.
I have called my cable company and had them 'hit' the box, which I guess resets it.
I have gone into the settings to verify that the firewire port is enabled.

1394 I/O Device: INST.
Active Ports: 0
Data Xmission: No
SC Implementation: 0
Loop Status: No
Root Status: Yes
Cycle Master Status: Yes


I have upgraded to Windows Media Center (some studen upgrade edition) and still it does not detect this box.

I am using a standard 6 pin to 6 pin cable using both UHCI and OHCI host controllers (should work regardless of host type).

Is there something im missing? This DVR is basically useless to me if I cant get the firewire ports to work.

I haven't done anything with it on Windows, but I know that at least on Mac OS X, I interact with the DVR via Firewire completely differently than I do my camcorder. It's not a DV device. I have to use "Virtual DVHS" app to get the video from the DVR.

recently got HD cable installed with a DVR since thats the only box they carry that has a Firewire output. I got the cable last week and decided to test it out.



.

When I swapped my 3412 again this morning, the lady said they know that the last update they did has caused problems, and a lot of people have had to bring their boxes in. She said the box she gave me "is updated" and should be fine. I'm not sure if she meant that there's another update beyond the problematic one that is supposed to fix things, or what. I'm also still not totally sure if this is a Comcast-wide issue, or if it's something specific with the Microsoft guide software update. But I guess I'll see what happens. I'm getting really sick of having to reprogram everything.

Check your output resolutions, perhaps it's outputting 480i or something that the TV's HDMI port can't support. With the box on, turn it off and hit MENU within 3 seconds. A user setting menu comes up, change the output type to 720P or 1080i

Check your output resolutions, perhaps it's outputting 480i or something that the TV's HDMI port can't support. With the box on, turn it off and hit MENU within 3 seconds. A user setting menu comes up, change the output type to 720P or 1080i


Anytime the STB is off you can hit the menu key to enter the user setup menu. no key press time limit like accessing the STB Diagnostic menu! :)

.

By this I mean, I had cable installed two weeks ago but last Friday (Payday) I was able to buy a Firewire cable to test it out on and it aparently does not work.

Does anyone in the Comcast have this device and have enabled firewire ports?

Yes, I've used the firewire port on mine. I'm not the only one (I've seen a number of other people post here that they've done it). I don't use mine regularly, but it worked when I did it.

I used firewire with a great deal of success with the 6412. I had some trouble with it after I got the 3412, and finally abandoned it when I found it was causing problems with the FF/REW functions.

Today there is suddenly an "ad" line at the bottom of the program guide. Is there any way to make it go away? I think it has reduced the number of channels listed per screen as well but am not certain.

Thanks
jta

1) While using HDMI, every time I switch from HD to SD or vice versa, there's a chance that the TV will go blank and display nothing but a black screen. (snip) Set 4:3 override to "OFF". Apparently your TV has problems switching modes.
2) On both component and HDMI cables, when I switch from HD to SD, the SD channel is sometimes jittery and freezes for about half a second every 5 seconds or so. Same here, seems fairly common... Hit pause for 4-5 seconds, then resume playing. No other work-around that I know of.

Today there is suddenly an "ad" line at the bottom of the program guide. Is there any way to make it go away? I think it has reduced the number of channels listed per screen as well but am not certain.Same here in the Bay Area. Lots of complaints going around about this. Either way you lose 1 line of listings, but if you haven't already you can set the "cell height" to "single", that's in the Setup->Guide Setup. That will buy you 1 more listing (but still less than before they inserted the ads..)

Today there is suddenly an "ad" line at the bottom of the program guide. Is there any way to make it go away? I think it has reduced the number of channels listed per screen as well but am not certain.

Same here in the Bay Area. Lots of complaints going around about this. Either way you lose 1 line of listings, but if you haven't already you can set the "cell height" to "single", that's in the Setup->Guide Setup. That will buy you 1 more listing (but still less than before they inserted the ads..)

Funny thing, the ads are gone now and I have my six lines of channels back. Hopefully it stays this way.

jta

Hopefully my ad will go away also . . . Also, I fast forward through recording programs all the time (baseball games) and have never had a problem with it. I have even fast forwarded through the end of the buffer and it just stops and starts playing normal time (I need a DVR that lets me fast forward through live commercials).

Funny thing, the ads are gone now and I have my six lines of channels back. Hopefully it stays this way.

jta

Comcast probably recieved so many complaints that they had to take it away. When I called last night, they said there was no way to turn the ads off.

Comcast probably recieved so many complaints that they had to take it away. When I called last night, they said there was no way to turn the ads off.

Yes there is, ask them to cancel your service!

Yes there is, ask them to cancel your service!

That is what I threatened them with. :rolleyes:

Check your output resolutions, perhaps it's outputting 480i or something that the TV's HDMI port can't support. With the box on, turn it off and hit MENU within 3 seconds. A user setting menu comes up, change the output type to 720P or 1080i

I have not yet received my new HDTV, but I was told to keep the output at 480I and let the display unit convert to 1080p. Is this wrong? Everyone seems to agree that letting your $4000 tv do the conversion rather than a free Moto Box. Comments?

The HD signals come into the box at 720p or 1080i. If you tell the box to output at 480i, then it will downconvert the signal and you will lose the original quality -- no way to recover it. The best the TV can then do is upconvert a degraded signal. Preference for the TV to do conversion only refers to 720p vs. 1080i. It would be nice if you could just tell the box to pass through the original, but you can't -- you have to specify one of the two HD resolutions.

I have not yet received my new HDTV, but I was told to keep the output at 480I and let the display unit convert to 1080p. Is this wrong? Everyone seems to agree that letting your $4000 tv do the conversion rather than a free Moto Box. Comments?
You might be thinking of the "480 override".

The HD signals come into the box at 720p or 1080i. If you tell the box to output at 480i, then it will downconvert the signal and you will lose the original quality -- no way to recover it. The best the TV can then do is upconvert a degraded signal. Preference for the TV to do conversion only refers to 720p vs. 1080i. It would be nice if you could just tell the box to pass through the original, but you can't -- you have to specify one of the two HD resolutions.


Sorry, that is what I meant, "Pass Through." In the A2000 thread, this seems to be an issue for most people that use the 3412 boxes, they do not allow pass through. I guess the best thing to do is set at 720p or 1080i. Thanks for the clarification.

Sorry, that is what I meant, "Pass Through." In the A2000 thread, this seems to be an issue for most people that use the 3412 boxes, they do not allow pass through. I guess the best thing to do is set at 720p or 1080i. Thanks for the clarification.

Definitely set it to 1080i for the A2000.

Definitely set it to 1080i for the A2000.

For the pass-through, I set to 480p since my tv won't allow me to change the aspect ratio of the picture in HD resolutions. For instance, letterbox content like Battlestar Galactica on Sci-Fi needs my zoom function, which can only be accessed at 480i or 480p.

For the pass-through, I set to 480p since my tv won't allow me to change the aspect ratio of the picture in HD resolutions. For instance, letterbox content like Battlestar Galactica on Sci-Fi needs my zoom function, which can only be accessed at 480i or 480p.

correction...i mean for the 4:3 override, not the passthrough

Motorola 3412 Swithed 120 Outlet?

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Can the 120 outlet on the rear of the 3412 be set to switched?

When I had a 6412 it had a switchable 120 outlet on the back panel. I used it to run a cooling fan when the 6412 was fully powered up. Comcast gave me a 3412 recently and although the setup menu offers the option of setting the outlet to switched, it does not work.

Comcast's friendly (actually friendly phone person went off line to get opinions--here they are--

Yes you can set the outlet to switched.

No you cannot set the outlet to switched.

Bring it back and try another one.

Before I jump in the car, has anyone got a 3421 that can be switched?

Before I jump in the car, has anyone got a 3421 that can be switched?

The outlet on a 3412 is not switched.
The entry is in the setup screen because the 3412 uses the same firmware as the 6412. They were apparently too lazy to do the simple programming task of deleting the entry for a 3412.

Take a look at the back of the 3412. I'm not going to pull mine out to look but my recollection is that the outlet is labeled as unswitched.

Motorola 3412 Swithed 120 Outlet?

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Can the 120 outlet on the rear of the 3412 be set to switched?

When I had a 6412 it had a switchable 120 outlet on the back panel. I used it to run a cooling fan when the 6412 was fully powered up. Comcast gave me a 3412 recently and although the setup menu offers the option of setting the outlet to switched, it does not work.

Comcast's friendly (actually friendly phone person went off line to get opinions--here they are--

Yes you can set the outlet to switched.

No you cannot set the outlet to switched.

Bring it back and try another one.

Before I jump in the car, has anyone got a 3421 that can be switched?


Some of the 3412's you can. some of the later phase 1's do not.

Mine works.

I have seen both.

Thanks folks. Disappointed, but thanks. It would now be a major effort to pull the box out of the equipment cabinet, so I will pass on looking at the label.

I guess I have to give nod to comcast on this one, yes or no about covers it. To bad really. I had use for the switched option, even though I am certain that comcast will pass along the savings. Perhaps more HD?

On the upside the digital PQ on many channels has really improved. Not HD but darn good.

trekguy,

Many folks have posted here that leaving the Comcast Moto DVR boxes powered on at all times improves the reliability of scheduled recordings. If true, you may want to pursue an alternate solution anyway.

I have a new Samsung HLS-5687W hooked up via HDMI to the Comcast 3412. I have the 3412 set at 1080i. Overall, I am pleased witht he PQ of most HD stations (DiscoveryHD, INHD, HBO, Showtime, ESPN 1&2, etc.), BUT NOT FOXHD, specifically their baseball broadcasts. There is a definite drop in quality of the HD pic. I am concerened, because I am a HUGE NFL fan, and look forward to the upcoming season on FoxHD. Anyone else see this? Anything to do with the box? Thanks, Bob

Most of Fox-DT baseball games are widescreen 480P broadcasts. It's not the box, it's the network. That said, many, if not all, of the Fox football games will be in 720P HD. Take a look at HDSportsguide's NFL schedule to see if your games will be in HD or not.

http://www.hdsportsguide.com/nfl.php

Most of Fox-DT baseball games are widescreen 480P broadcasts. It's not the box, it's the network. That said, many, if not all, of the Fox football games will be in 720P HD. Take a look at HDSportsguide's NFL schedule to see if your games will be in HD or not.

http://www.hdsportsguide.com/nfl.php

Thanks for your quick response! That makes me feel a whole lot better.......... I saved that site, and the games are in 720P. Go Eagles........ :) Bob

I have a new Samsung HLS-5687W hooked up via HDMI to the Comcast 3412. I have the 3412 set at 1080i. Overall, I am pleased witht he PQ of most HD stations (DiscoveryHD, INHD, HBO, Showtime, ESPN 1&2, etc.), BUT NOT FOXHD, specifically their baseball broadcasts. There is a definite drop in quality of the HD pic. I am concerened, because I am a HUGE NFL fan, and look forward to the upcoming season on FoxHD. Anyone else see this? Anything to do with the box? Thanks, Bob

FWIW, I found my Comcast 3412 PQ was better using the STB Component Out after trying several differrent HDMI cables to a new Panny 32LE60 LED display.

I had to make room for a new upconverting DVD player on my display's only HDMI input, so I moved the Comcast 3412 output to Component. The new DVD player went on HDMI and the DVD output looks great on my display. However, much to my surprise, both the SD PQ and HD PQ from the Comcast 3412 also looked better via Component (the colors and 'available' brightness improved dramatically using component). I can now see details within dark colors, etc when using the display's default picture settings which I could not before (even with 100% brightness and backlight when on the HDMI Input).

Also, some of the other reported nuisance bugs with the 3412 diminished after moving to Component .... primarily the 'powering-up to a blank screen' bug (which required playing a saved DVR program for a moment) and the 'lack of response on the remote's FF or RW' bug .... they do not seem to happen anymore.

Maybe that's why Comcast officially does not support HDMI connectors for now?

trekguy,

Many folks have posted here that leaving the Comcast Moto DVR boxes powered on at all times improves the reliability of scheduled recordings. If true, you may want to pursue an alternate solution anyway.

I have done that. I use the aux outlet on the receiver. The 3412 is so much cooler than the 6412 that I can get away with it. I would like however to have had fans running off both, as my wife often watches the display without turning on the AVR.

Hopefully I will not run into the problem with scheduled recordings, but if I do I will bless your name for the suggestion.

Hi,
I have a DCT3412 and unlocked the volume controls for individual devices so I could turn off the MUTE when a program was being recorded. This has been accomplished but now I have to press the TV button to control the volume and press the CABLE button to control the DCT3412.

My question is "How do I reset the controller so I can control the TV volume when the controller is in Cable mode?

Thanks,

Marv-0001

My question is "How do I reset the controller so I can control the TV volume when the controller is in Cable mode?
http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR/Programming_the_Remote#Volume_Lock

Thanks for the information.

Marv

What you may want to do is set the mute as a shifted-mute. That is Method 2 under this link:
http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR/Programming_the_Remote#Add_A_Dedicated_STB_Mute.2FUnmute

Anyone know why I can get HD channels fine on Comcast but the HD On Demand stuff is shown in standard resolution? I checked all the setup options and can't find anything.

A relative of mine has a 3412, and she says for about the last three weeks, almost everyday the DVR will be at about 42% (all SD), and suddenly when a recording is about to start it says it can't record, as it is at 100%. If she wasn't there, it wouldn't have recorded.

Once I was able to just enter 'DVR Recordings', and exit and it cleared up. But she said the other times it would only clear up by deleting a saved program, once it required two deletions.

I remember reading something about this when I got my 6412, but I haven't been following 6412 or 3142 discussions for many months, and a search didn't yield anything. I am thinking a full reset of the box is in order.

Has anyone cured this problem with the full reset?
Did you lose all of your recordings?

Also, when live TV is paused on one tuner it falsely shows 'To Be Announced', so no program info.

Scanpa, I did read your posts on resetting the box, and the possibility of losing the recordings; I am hoping it wouldn't.

My HD dvr 3412 from comcast is almost full but I need more space. How can I get more space? Can I attach a hard drive to the stb to get more space or what can I do?

The only thing to do is delete something (or get a second DVR). They're not upgradeable.

My HD dvr 3412 from comcast is almost full but I need more space. How can I get more space? Can I attach a hard drive to the stb to get more space or what can I do?

Watch what you have on the DVR and then delete it, so you can record more! :)

My HD dvr 3412 from comcast is almost full but I need more space. How can I get more space? Can I attach a hard drive to the stb to get more space or what can I do?

Probably the easiest thing to do is record the stuff onto DVD or tape, then delete it from the HDD.

Has anyone had any problems with their boxes freezing up in the past 2 weeks? I've had a 3412 for about 4 months and just two weeks ago, at 4:20 in the morning it froze up. I wake up at 7:30 am and find it in that state. Only way to clear it was to unplug it. Worked fine for the rest of the day. Then a couple of days later it did the same thing. Next day I took it back to comcast and swaped it out for another 3412. That one worked fine for about a week then yesterday it did the same thing at 4:20 in the morning.

Anyone have any ideas? I believe it is on firmware version 12.22.

Someone by the name of Zoder has posted the following info on another site:

Comcast Plans a 'TV Guide' on the Web

»www.multichannel.com/article/CA6368422.html


quote:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Comcast Corp. as early as this week will announce a Web-based service that will act as an electronic guide and search engine for computer users trying to sort through thousands of scheduled television shows, on-demand videos and high-definition programs.

The service, to be called TV Planner, will be introduced at the same time Comcast launches its first “fall lineup” of video-on-demand programming. That will underscore the Web service's ability to sort through large amounts of on-demand programming quickly, according to the company.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

According to the article this will be for both HSI and non HSI customers.

You can access the beta here.

»www.tvplanner.net/

__________________________________________

This looks very cool and for once Comcast seems to be moving very much in the right direction.

Has anyone had any problems with their boxes freezing up in the past 2 weeks? I've had a 3412 for about 4 months and just two weeks ago, at 4:20 in the morning it froze up. I wake up at 7:30 am and find it in that state. Only way to clear it was to unplug it. Worked fine for the rest of the day. Then a couple of days later it did the same thing. Next day I took it back to comcast and swaped it out for another 3412. That one worked fine for about a week then yesterday it did the same thing at 4:20 in the morning.

Anyone have any ideas? I believe it is on firmware version 12.22.

I don't use Iguide, but it sounds like a firmware update not working.

ajwees41

The service, to be called TV Planner, will be introduced at the same time Comcast launches its first “fall lineup” of video-on-demand programming. That will underscore the Web service's ability to sort through large amounts of on-demand programming quickly, according to the company.
»www.tvplanner.net/

hmmm, wonder if this will eventually replace my TVNow subscription, which allows me to search each month's programming against a list of 400 or so movies...

All:

I was having some issues with my 6412 III box and had comast come take a look. They have replaced my DVR with a new 3416 box. I attempted ot read this entire thread, but after 6 pages it was just too difficult.

Can anyone here summarize the difference in the boxes? I would especially be interested in problems/features that differ between the two boxes and if there is anything particular to the 34xx sereis that I need to be aware of.

Your help is much appreciated.

Thanks.

Pdutia, try this reference: http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR

Pdutia, try this reference: http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR


Thanks

Well at my Job, We now have 50 DCT-3416p2 STB ready to give to the office CSR & field techs to issue.

Fan looks like it is more powerful, looks like a new brand of power transformer. The grill vents are more open. Feels heavier then the 3412p1 units. Same size though.

I should get one here in the next few days to test.

Has anyone had any problems with their boxes freezing up in the past 2 weeks? I've had a 3412 for about 4 months and just two weeks ago, at 4:20 in the morning it froze up. I wake up at 7:30 am and find it in that state. Only way to clear it was to unplug it. Worked fine for the rest of the day. Then a couple of days later it did the same thing. Next day I took it back to comcast and swaped it out for another 3412. That one worked fine for about a week then yesterday it did the same thing at 4:20 in the morning.

Anyone have any ideas? I believe it is on firmware version 12.22.
A well-known bug, related to the box scanning the Series list for recordings to schedule. It appears to be tied to having extra time configured at the beginning or end.

Full details here:
http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR/Bugs#Box_locks_up_between_4:20_and_4:50_AM_or_PM

A well-known bug, related to the box scanning the Series list for recordings to schedule. It appears to be tied to having extra time configured at the beginning or end.

Full details here:


I guess that could be it. I always use the start and end on time option when setting the series recordings. I guess I could get rid of a few series I've got on there as I do have a lot.

You would think they would put out firmware fixes for these things.

You would think they would put out firmware fixes for these things.

You are assuming here that Comcast actually cares about its customers...

They know that for many they are the only option.... and they also know that D* satellite systems are no better... so why should they make the effort?

You are assuming here that Comcast actually cares about its customers...They know that for many they are the only option.... and they also know that D* satellite systems are no better

Dunno about that. I used Dish Network's DVR for years, never had a problem with their hardware/software...

Dunno about that. I used Dish Network's DVR for years, never had a problem with their hardware/software...

Yes, their DVRs are much better... but their HD PQ is certainly not nearly as good as comcast's.

All I am saying is that every provider has some issues (Duh!!), and that none of the providers really stands apart in providing a significantly beter solution all around. Added to that is the pseudo-monoploy that cable companys enjoy.

All these factors work together to make for very little customer focus on the part of the providers.

My 3412 Experience..

I recently moved and had the 6412 + HD without issues..

So I hook up my samsung 1080i HD tv to my new 3412 from Comcast of course.

- HD Picture is terrible, all channels..
- When watching live TV above channel 13, the picture skips like it's dropping out or dropping frames.
- DVR does a hard reset when you use the guide for more than a minute
- DVR resets when erasing shows from the DVR.

DVR replaced
- DVR #2 experiences same issues

DVR Replaced
- DVR #3 experiences same issues. Comcast tech told me to switch to dish.

DVR Replaced (Supervisor Work Order)
- All house wiring wallplates, connectors changed, ground block changed, connectors at the pad changed.
- DVR #4 experiences same issues
- Final tech noticed a transverse signal. Now waiting for Maintainence crew, but haven't had a call back since Sunday.

It is the damnest thing. My HSI is about 10-14Mb down on Speakeasy, and 10-12Mb on DSL Reports. I can't complain about that. My Comcast phone is flawless so far. But my CABLE just downright sucks..

Any ideas?

You would think they would put out firmware fixes for these things.
This would more likely be a software issue with the IGuide, not Motorola's firmware. There is a newer version of the software out there, but very few places have it yet.

Hello all,

I know that the answer is probably in the long 56 page thread but here's the question anyways since I couldn't find the answer using the search function...

How can I copy the video files from the 3412's hard drive to a PC?
Thanks in advance for the answer to a newbie question.

Hello all,

I know that the answer is probably in the long 56 page thread but here's the question anyways since I couldn't find the answer using the search function...

How can I copy the video files from the 3412's hard drive to a PC?
Thanks in advance for the answer to a newbie question.
Here is the guide:

http://replayguide.sourceforge.net/dct6412/index.html

Hello all,

I know that the answer is probably in the long 56 page thread but here's the question anyways since I couldn't find the answer using the search function...

How can I copy the video files from the 3412's hard drive to a PC?
Thanks in advance for the answer to a newbie question.

Simple, using Firewire to your pc, record each of the files as you play them one by one.

There is no way to just Copy, or move the files from the STB DVR HDD.

Here is the guide:

http://replayguide.sourceforge.net/dct6412/index.html

Thanks Kabanero

Simple, using Firewire to your pc, record each of the files as you play them one by one.

There is no way to just Copy, or move the files from the STB DVR HDD.

Thanks Scanpa.

So if I here to take the HDD out of the 3412, the files would be encrypted...or is it a file system that Win XP will not be able to read?

Thanks Kabanero



Thanks Scanpa.

So if I here to take the HDD out of the 3412, the files would be encrypted...or is it a file system that Win XP will not be able to read?

A PC will not be able to access the files on a DVR HDD.

A PC will not be able to access the files on a DVR HDD.

Gotcha... Thanks Scanpa

Hi,

I still need help.

I need to know how to make Volume button in Cable Mode only control the TV Volume. No other function of the cable button should be changed when I do this. This is how the controller worked before I fixed the Mute problem during recording. The document shows me how to turn on/off the Global Volume lock or turn off a volume lock on one or more of the mode buttons but does not tell me how to make the cable mode control the volume of the TV.

When the Global volume is turned ON the Volume button adjust the volume of the 3412 in Cable mode and the volume of the TV set in TV mode. What I need to do now is make the Volume button control the TV volume in Cable mode without changing any other functions of the Cable button. As I mentioned above this is how the controller worked before I fixed the Mute problem during recording.

Thanks,

Marv

Well you have 2 options:

1) Reset the remote back to the "defaults", then re-do the MUTE thing. However in this case the MUTE button will still mute the sound at the cable box, not at the TV. But that's what you want, since you want to un-mute the cable box when it starts a recording when the power's off (alternately you can always leave the power on, this is actually the preferred method of operation for a variety of reasons...)

2) Follow the instructions I linked to for remapping the VOLUME button to whatever you want. In your case, the "TV" button.

anyone else still having problems with these newer boxes? I get picture freezing and remote freezing constantly, this is our first 34xx box we had 3 6xxx boxes prior, will motorola ever get it right this is a friggin joke.

Over in the Seattle Comcast thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=8379574&&#post8379574), someone said they were told that Comcast sent all of their 3412s back to Motorola due to problems they've been having, and they gave him a 6412 in exchange. Has anyone else heard anything about this? I wonder if this is happening only in the Seattle area. Or maybe the tech was making it up, who knows.

I'm pretty sick of the problems I've been having since the firmware update. But I think I'm going to wait a week or two for possible news on the TiVo Series 3 before swapping for a 6412...

All 3 of my 3412p1 work great.

I am soon moving to a new headend and will be getting 3 New 3416p2 STB at my new location and will post about them soon. Only thing that sucks is going to a old 750 mhz cable system from a 1 Ghz system.

I think Seattle has the Microsoft software instead of the TVGuide crap. It's supposed to be a lot better, though some of the problems are hardware-related.

However, I wouldn't be surprised at all if they recalled every single one of these boxes, they are complete and utter garbage, for a CE device anyway... about the norm for a personal computer I guess.. (i.e., full of bugs, needs to be rebooted every day, etc...)

anyone else still having problems with these newer boxes? I get picture freezing and remote freezing constantly, this is our first 34xx box we had 3 6xxx boxes prior, will motorola ever get it right this is a friggin joke.You're kidding right? Did you not see the previous 57 pages full of problems and complaints? :p As for your last question...

Magic 8-ball says: Very Unlikely.

Especially now that Motorola has gotten out of the CATV STB market completely.... haven't they?

Especially now that Motorola has gotten out of the CATV STB market completely.... haven't they?

No they have not. They will be around and in the STB world for a long time.

recently got HD cable installed with a DVR since thats the only box they carry that has a Firewire output. I got the cable last week and decided to test it out.

I have the link to a few online guides on how to get this to work, but cannot actually follow them as I dont get that far.

Initially I tried this in Windows 2000, but the OS did not detect the DCT. I was later told that it was the fault of windows, so I went out and bought a firewire card for the XP system I have (my previous Win2k systems do not like WinXP). So once again, I plug the DCT into the Firewire port, nothing happens, WinXP does not detect the device.

What I have done so far.

I have a DV camcorder and can plug that in and get the OS to detect a device.
I have called my cable company and had them 'hit' the box, which I guess resets it.
I have gone into the settings to verify that the firewire port is enabled.

1394 I/O Device: INST.
Active Ports: 0
Data Xmission: No
SC Implementation: 0
Loop Status: No
Root Status: Yes
Cycle Master Status: Yes


I have upgraded to Windows Media Center (some studen upgrade edition) and still it does not detect this box.

I am using a standard 6 pin to 6 pin cable using both UHCI and OHCI host controllers (should work regardless of host type).

Is there something im missing? This DVR is basically useless to me if I cant get the firewire ports to work.


Ok, the ports were disabled. Went to the local office, talked to a lady who knew what I was talking about. Exchanged the DVR for one of the same model and those ports are now enabled. Everything is fine, all is well, and I can now capture ESPN in HD.

Joy!

Well you have 2 options:

1) Reset the remote back to the "defaults", then re-do the MUTE thing. However in this case the MUTE button will still mute the sound at the cable box, not at the TV. But that's what you want, since you want to un-mute the cable box when it starts a recording when the power's off (alternately you can always leave the power on, this is actually the preferred method of operation for a variety of reasons...)

2) Follow the instructions I linked to for remapping the VOLUME button to whatever you want. In your case, the "TV" button.
Walk

I'll try both methods.

Thanks again for the help.

Marv

I wouldn't be surprised at all if they recalled every single one of these boxes, they are complete and utter garbage, for a CE device anyway...
In CE products, recalls only happen for safety issues, such as exploding batteries. The chances are zero that Motorola or Comcast or anyone else would recall these STBs because of operational bugs.

In CE products, recalls only happen for safety issues, such as exploding batteries. The chances are zero that Motorola or Comcast or anyone else would recall these STBs because of operational bugs.


The only time Motorola recalled anything was when the DCT 2000 had a faulty plug that could cause a fire if unpluged from the box first instead of the wall.

ajwees41

The STB does work as built. It is the individual headend, the software, firmware, IPG software & poor signal strength issues at the STB location that is causing 99% of these issues.

The STB does work as built. It is the individual headend, the software, firmware, IPG software & poor signal strength issues at the STB location that is causing 99% of these issues.

I have absolutely no problem believing this. However, from my perspective as a consumer, the box doesn't work well. It's up to Comcast to provide a hardware and software combination that will function. I don't care what the cause of the problem is; it's still a problem that is severely impairing my use of the box.

I came to the Comcast DVR this summer after having TiVos since 1999 (or maybe early 2000; I forget exactly). I know what a good DVR experience is like. I don't think my expectations are unreasonable. In fact, I was relatively happy with the Comcast box for quite a while. I never liked it as much as the TiVo interface, but it did the job. However, the recent problems are completely unacceptable. Multiple spontaneous reboots per day, many of which mess up my recordings, are not ok. And even worse, it once lost all of my recordings and scheduled recordings. I should not have to live with that kind of unreliablity, regardless of the cause.

Rather than making excuses and blaming it on outside factors, they need to just fix it!

The STB does work as built. It is the individual headend, the software, firmware, IPG software & poor signal strength issues at the STB location that is causing 99% of these issues.

I consider the Motorola firmware to be an integral part of the STB. It certainly does nothing without it. Most of the problems I see with the 3412 can be directly attributed to the firmware.

I have absolutely no problem believing this. However, from my perspective as a consumer, the box doesn't work well. It's up to Comcast to provide a hardware and software combination that will function. I don't care what the cause of the problem is; it's still a problem that is severely impairing my use of the box.
I came to the Comcast DVR this summer after having TiVos since 1999 (or maybe early 2000; I forget exactly). I know what a good DVR experience is like. I don't think my expectations are unreasonable.

Same here, coming from Dish Network's DVR. I've had just about every problem there is with the 3412s (been through 7 or 8 boxes so far). I don't much care about the source of the problems, whether it's software or hardware doesn't mean much in practical terms. As you say, it's Comcast's hardware, it's up to them to make it work.
Incidentally, I've had them credit several months of DVR charges because of the problems.

My issue is learning how to change the display output settings on the 3412 DVR. I reach the menu with no problems...I can scroll to the options I wish to change...Once in the menu, I am unable to highlight or move asteriks to the prefs I want. Has anyone else had this problem? Please reply or email me with any solutions guys. Thanks!

You must be viewing the status, rather than the page to control the settings. If you follow the instructions in Wiki by turning the DVR off and then selecting Menu, you should be able to change the settings: http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR/Setup#Accessing_User_Settings

I found this board tonight and I have read dozens of pages. I hope that I am not repeating someone elses post, I tried not to.
I got the 3412 today to replace an older Motorola that was freezing all the time, I went to Comcast to pick this one up.
Everything seems to be working except for two very important things.
1.The My DVR button does nothing, and the DVR button does not even appear on the MENU.
2. I can not record a series. In fact, the choice to record a series does not even display at the bottom of the page modify recording where I expected to see it. If I try to modify a recording there is also a button that was not on my last model, it says "Repeat Recording, the it says in the box NONE and there is no way to change that setting.

I have called Comcast and they had no idea of this problem, and they are going to replace the box. Of course, now I can't record anything until they get here because even if it is recording, I can't get to it with the MY DVR button.

After reading this board, I will try to unplug it again.

If you can help, I would certainly appreciate it.

Joey

The 3412 should work the same as the 6412, so if that's what you had then you should be able to tell if it's configured properly.

The STB does work as built. It is the individual headend, the software, firmware, IPG software & poor signal strength issues at the STB location that is causing 99% of these issues.

I'm ashamed to admit that all my 3412 Comcast bugs that we've all been complaining about went away for me when I switched from HDMI to Component connections, as advised by Comcast support.

I found this board tonight and I have read dozens of pages. I hope that I am not repeating someone elses post, I tried not to.
I got the 3412 today to replace an older Motorola that was freezing all the time, I went to Comcast to pick this one up.
Everything seems to be working except for two very important things.
1.The My DVR button does nothing, and the DVR button does not even appear on the MENU.
2. I can not record a series. In fact, the choice to record a series does not even display at the bottom of the page modify recording where I expected to see it. If I try to modify a recording there is also a button that was not on my last model, it says "Repeat Recording, the it says in the box NONE and there is no way to change that setting.

I have called Comcast and they had no idea of this problem, and they are going to replace the box. Of course, now I can't record anything until they get here because even if it is recording, I can't get to it with the MY DVR button.

After reading this board, I will try to unplug it again.

If you can help, I would certainly appreciate it.

Joey

Good News. I unplugged and replugged and now it works. However, it has already frozen once, which is why I took the other one back to Comcast.
Does TIVO really work better? It just seemed that something from Comcast should be better integrated into the cable TV.
Joey

Is it true that FOXHD is outputting it's HD pic in 720P? If so, should I set my 3412 STB also at 720P to get the best picture. NOTE: I have an Samsung HLS-5687 TV , which is 1080P capable. Or just leave it at 1080i. Thnaks, Bob

Is it true that FOXHD is outputting it's HD pic in 720P? If so, should I set my 3412 STB also at 720P to get the best picture. NOTE: I have an Samsung HLS-5687 TV , which is 1080P capable. Or just leave it at 1080i. Thnaks, Bob

When you have a program on Fox being broadcast in HD try setting your 3412 output to 720P. Spend a few minutes watching the program. Next, change it back to 1080I. Watch it a few minutes. Do you see a difference? If you do, set the output to what looked best. If not, set it to whatever you like. It's your eyes that matter here, not what someone else thinks you should see.

Good advice. I have a 1366x768 LCD in the bedroom and it looks quite a bit better with the cable box set to 1080i output rather than 720p, for any channel really, but especially the 1080i channels. Yes FOX uses 720p. As does ABC/ESPN and a couple others. NBC, CBS and most of the movie channels, HBO etc.. use 1080i.

As for recalls, I agree the hardware manuf. wouldn't recall anything unless it was a safety issue (and they are usually forced to make those recalls, by the governement and/or lawsuit settlements...) but I could easily see Comcast returning all the boxes and telling Motorola to shove them where the sun don't shine.... I suppose it's possible that they work well given the right set of firmware/software/whatever but I can tell you that if I had bought this box at the store and it worked this badly I would have returned it right away... I mean WHEN it works, it works "ok" (shuttle controls can be herky-jerky) but it's only a matter of days or sometimes hours and it will just completely stop working (the DVR portion anyway, the tuner usually keeps working) until I unplug it.. ANYWAY, not to start another 3 pages of rants or anything... :)

hi,
I have a 3412 I. Is there any way to dump stuff to a pc as it's recorded so that I don't lose it when the disc space on the dvr is full?
BTW, are there any plans for bigger hard drives in the works?
I don't know the capacity of the 3412 but it's puny.
( it deleted the us open on me :mad: )

hi,
I have a 3412 I. Is there any way to dump stuff to a pc as it's recorded so that I don't lose it when the disc space on the dvr is full?
BTW, are there any plans for bigger hard drives in the works?
I don't know the capacity of the 3412 but it's puny.
( it deleted the us open on me :mad: )

Read this: http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR

The capacity is 120GB. There is a 3416 with 160GB, but you may not find one. See the "firewire" section for playing back programs to PC.

Read this: http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR

The capacity is 120GB. There is a 3416 with 160GB, but you may not find one. See the "firewire" section for playing back programs to PC.

Another important question would be:

Is there anyway to dump the DVR files quickly to a PC without doing a tediously slow real-time playback of the DVR output? Also, haven't the major networks started flagging many of their broadcasts with do-not-copy flags?

Another important question would be:

Is there anyway to dump the DVR files quickly to a PC without doing a tediously slow real-time playback of the DVR output? Also, haven't the major networks started flagging many of their broadcasts with do-not-copy flags?

No way to access DVR files other than playback. And some of the postprocessing can be much slower than the realtime playback.

Setting of 5C copy flag should be checked locally, but I don't believe any of the broadcast stations have it set.

I have the latest 3412 (HDMI) and every once in awhile the picture gets jittery - the picture freezes momentarily then catches back up to the audio after about a second. When it's bad, it happens every 5-10 seconds. If I unplug and reboot, the problem goes away, but unvariably ends up coming back.

This is the 2nd box that exhibits this behavior. Is this "normal" for the 3412?

I have the latest 3412 (HDMI) and every once in awhile the picture gets jittery - the picture freezes momentarily then catches back up to the audio after about a second. When it's bad, it happens every 5-10 seconds. If I unplug and reboot, the problem goes away, but unvariably ends up coming back.

This is the 2nd box that exhibits this behavior. Is this "normal" for the 3412?

I get this with my 6412 from time to time as well. Changing the channel and then going back fixes it for me.

I get this with my 6412 from time to time as well. Changing the channel and then going back fixes it for me.
Thanks....however, changing the channels doesn't help for me. I'd live with it if Comcast would at least give me PIP with this box :mad:

All:

I was just converted to an all digital signal a few weeks ago. Ever since then I am having major problems with my PQ on the SD channels esp. NBC, and PBS. I checked the Diags menu and noticed that my signal quality is only listed as fair... and AGC is at 79% most of the time.

I have been trying to deal with comcast, and they sent some guy over... who just cinnected some sort of meter to my incoming cable and said the signal was OK. He insisted that the problems I am seeing are with my TV, which I know is untrue becuase it is a Pioneer 4270 and all other channels look OK. Comcast refuses to acknowledge that this is a signal strength/quality problem.

The question I have is, is there any sort of amplifier ar doodaad I can connect to the inbound cable that will improve the signal strength/quality?

Thanks,

All:

I was just converted to an all digital signal a few weeks ago. Ever since then I am having major problems with my PQ on the SD channels esp. NBC, and PBS. I checked the Diags menu and noticed that my signal quality is only listed as fair... and AGC is at 79% most of the time.

I have been trying to deal with comcast, and they sent some guy over... who just cinnected some sort of meter to my incoming cable and said the signal was OK. He insisted that the problems I am seeing are with my TV, which I know is untrue becuase it is a Pioneer 4270 and all other channels look OK. Comcast refuses to acknowledge that this is a signal strength/quality problem.

The question I have is, is there any sort of amplifier ar doodaad I can connect to the inbound cable that will improve the signal strength/quality?
If the diagnostics are showing FAIR or POOR, you have a weak signal, period. With digital, if it starts to get too weak or noisy, you get complete dropouts instead of just the noise of analog.

Unless you can eliminate some splitters, consider an RF amp. The Motorola amp has been recommended by many, and I have one myself:
http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/Motorola-Signal-Booster-484095-001-00/sem/rpsm/oid/44964/rpem/ccd/productDetail.do

Over in the Seattle Comcast thread (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=8379574&&#post8379574), someone said they were told that Comcast sent all of their 3412s back to Motorola due to problems they've been having, and they gave him a 6412 in exchange. Has anyone else heard anything about this? I wonder if this is happening only in the Seattle area. Or maybe the tech was making it up, who knows.

I'm pretty sick of the problems I've been having since the firmware update. But I think I'm going to wait a week or two for possible news on the TiVo Series 3 before swapping for a 6412...

I just posted this in the Seattle thread, but in case you missed it there ...

I learned that Comcast can now roll back the firmware version on your 3412 to 12.31 if you are having issues with it turning off and on since the latest upgrade of 12.35. Since this is not happening to everyone I assume that is why it's not going to everyone. Also, you can have a choice. Either it can powercycle and not get stuck in fast forward, or get stuck in ff but not powercycle. Or if you are lucky all is fine since the upgrade.

If the diagnostics are showing FAIR or POOR, you have a weak signal, period. With digital, if it starts to get too weak or noisy, you get complete dropouts instead of just the noise of analog.

Unless you can eliminate some splitters, consider an RF amp. The Motorola amp has been recommended by many, and I have one myself:
http://www.circuitcity.com/ssm/Motorola-Signal-Booster-484095-001-00/sem/rpsm/oid/44964/rpem/ccd/productDetail.do

Thanks...

I think I'll just go get one rather than argue with Comcast... They have all the time in the world to deny and I have not time to keep asking.

1080i vs 720p NFL

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I'm really enjoying my 50" HP plasma, especially when it comes to HD NFL games. I'm on Comcast cable. I've noticed bad pixellation with 1080i games (NBC-HD) when the camera is zoomed in on motion. No hint of pixellation with 720p games (ESPNHD). I remember reading that certain networks (Fox, ESPN) chose 720p because of superior sports performance. It makes sense that the greater the amount of picture information, the worse the pixellation when the picture changes rapidly and the source is bandwidth-limited. Is my perception correct?

I checked the Diags menu and noticed that my signal quality is only listed as fair... and AGC is at 79% most of the time.

I have been trying to deal with comcast, and they sent some guy over... who just cinnected some sort of meter to my incoming cable and said the signal was OK.

If the technician checked the cable at the point where it enters your home, but the signal is only "fair" at the DVR, it sounds to me like you have a problem between your incoming cable and your DVR, such as a bad splitter or a bad section of coax cable.

hi,
I have a 3412 I. Is there any way to dump stuff to a pc as it's recorded so that I don't lose it when the disc space on the dvr is full?
BTW, are there any plans for bigger hard drives in the works?
I don't know the capacity of the 3412 but it's puny.
( it deleted the us open on me :mad: )

I have the same box. Today I called Comcast and asked for a new one. This is my last attempt at Comcast DVR, then I am going to try TiVo (if it will work with the Comcast digital cable box). My DVR freezes, and nothing will make it come back except to unplug it, and then I lose any stored shows. So far, I have to rate this, and Comcast support as not really ready for public utilization. It has been awful from the beginning. Also the agent at Comcast said all of the boxes are 160 Mb, which does not agree with what I have read here.....I wonder who is right?

Joey

I have the same box. Today I called Comcast and asked for a new one. This is my last attempt at Comcast DVR, then I am going to try TiVo (if it will work with the Comcast digital cable box). My DVR freezes, and nothing will make it come back except to unplug it, and then I lose any stored shows. So far, I have to rate this, and Comcast support as not really ready for public utilization. It has been awful from the beginning. Also the agent at Comcast said all of the boxes are 160 Mb, which does not agree with what I have read here.....I wonder who is right?

Joey

If it is a 3412, it's 120MB. If it is a 3416, it's 160Mb. Now that is the truth.....

Hi, just picked up a 3412 yesterday to start getting the local HD since my HDTV does not have QAM tuner. I currently only subscribe to extended basic (presumably analog?). I now can see HD in its glory on the digital channels (180-190s).

However my channels below 100 are acting funny. Channel 2 is now ESPN (which should be CBS), I see AMC on a completely different channel and I can't find Food Network and HGTV on their regular channels either. Some channels below 100 are mapped correctly, some are not, some only display "will be available soon". The guide for Channel 2 still shows CBS.

Any help is appreciated. BTW I tried the reset procedure already, it took about 30 minutes and resulted the same.

Hi, just picked up a 3412 yesterday...
Since the 3412 is an all-digital box, it needs to be "getting its signal from the right office," or so I was told when I was brought 3 new HD DVR boxes from Comcast and my lower channels didn't work at all. You'd think this is why they insist someone come out when you move, to make sure everything is set up properly. I have had countless horrible Comcast CS experiences until I got lucky and got someone who knew what the problem was (she described it as I did above). So basically, make sure you call and ask whether your box is programmed to be receiving its signal from the right location.

For about the last month, everyday the DVR will be at about 42% (all SD), and suddenly when a recording is about to start, it says it can't record, as it is at 100%. If no one was there, it wouldn't have recorded.

Once I was able to just enter 'DVR Recordings', and exit and it cleared up. But, the other times it would only clear up by deleting a saved program, once it required two deletions.

Also, when live TV is paused on one tuner it falsely shows 'To Be Announced', so no program info.

Is this possibly fixable with the Reset/Reauthorization procedure or is the box definately defective?

If the technician checked the cable at the point where it enters your home, but the signal is only "fair" at the DVR, it sounds to me like you have a problem between your incoming cable and your DVR, such as a bad splitter or a bad section of coax cable.

Actually he checked the signal at both the point of entry as well as at the end of the cable that is supposed to go into the DVR box. He claimed that the signal was fine in both places (I don't have a splitter and have a very good sheilded cable from belkin).

My frustration with the tech was that he refused to acknowledge that having a signal that says"fair" is NOT OK. He claimed that that is normal... and it is only considered bad when it actually says Bad.

He also refused to explain then why my PQ was suferring so much and kept insisting that it was my TV...

Anyway, I have purchased the signal booster recommended in a previous post. Let's see if that makes any diferrence.

If it says "Fair" under the OOB section then I think the signal is too weak, but if the tech says otherwise then, not much you can do. Mine says "GOOD/GOOD" with AGC in the 20%s on the OOB page.

If it says "fair" under the In-band tuner section, that is fine, mine often say that, with AGC up to 75% and I don't have any major PQ problems. But if it's not "good" at the OOB point then I imagine it would be "poor" or bad or whatever by the time it got to the in-band tuners (after it's been split for the 2 tuners).

If it says "Fair" under the OOB section then I think the signal is too weak, but if the tech says otherwise then, not much you can do. Mine says "GOOD/GOOD" with AGC in the 20%s on the OOB page.

If it says "fair" under the In-band tuner section, that is fine, mine often say that, with AGC up to 75% and I don't have any major PQ problems. But if it's not "good" at the OOB point then I imagine it would be "poor" or bad or whatever by the time it got to the in-band tuners (after it's been split for the 2 tuners).

Yes, I understand that... and that is what I told the tech.

My signal says fair in the OOB with AGC at 79%

Hi, just picked up a 3412 yesterday to start getting the local HD since my HDTV does not have QAM tuner. I currently only subscribe to extended basic (presumably analog?). I now can see HD in its glory on the digital channels (180-190s).

However my channels below 100 are acting funny. Channel 2 is now ESPN (which should be CBS), I see AMC on a completely different channel and I can't find Food Network and HGTV on their regular channels either. Some channels below 100 are mapped correctly, some are not, some only display "will be available soon". The guide for Channel 2 still shows CBS.

Any help is appreciated. BTW I tried the reset procedure already, it took about 30 minutes and resulted the same.

I too am having this problem. I returned a 6412 at my local comcast office because it was malfunctioning and they gave me the 3412. Only a few channels will come in at all and the ones that do are on the wrong channel ie ESPN on PBS. I called comcast and after flashing the box he scheduled a tech to come out tomorrow, all the while assuring me that the box would probably sort itself out on its own. I seriously doubt it! Not impressed so far. I have had all the crazy quirks with the 6412 and I can hardly wait for a whole new set of problems with the 3412!

I too am having this problem. I returned a 6412 at my local comcast office because it was malfunctioning and they gave me the 3412. Only a few channels will come in at all and the ones that do are on the wrong channel ie ESPN on PBS. I called comcast and after flashing the box he scheduled a tech to come out tomorrow, all the while assuring me that the box would probably sort itself out on its own. I seriously doubt it! Not impressed so far. I have had all the crazy quirks with the 6412 and I can hardly wait for a whole new set of problems with the 3412!

When I did the same swap I also ran into two new problems that I didn't have before:

1. The picture will sometimes momentarily freeze and resume, freeze and resume, etc. continuously on certain non-HD channels, most notably on our local sports channel that carries the Twins' baseball games. When this happens the audio continues uninterruped.

2. Then sometimes the audio will just cut out completely for no apparent reason, like even when you just change a channel and don't even touch the volume control.

At least I can record programs on this one, which the 6412 was no longer doing and why I did the exchange in the first place. Anyway I'm thinking about swapping this one for a new one to get everything to work as it should (I know, good luck with that one!).

When I did the same swap I also ran into two new problems that I didn't have before:

1. The picture will sometimes momentarily freeze and resume, freeze and resume, etc. continuously on certain non-HD channels, most notably on our local sports channel that carries the Twins' baseball games. When this happens the audio continues uninterruped.


I posted this same problem a couple days ago but didn't see much response to it. It goes away by unplugging the box....but eventually comes back. It's been about 4 days since I've last seen it.

Just got a brand new 3416PII this morning, my old 6412PII had been acting up recently, and deleted ALL my recordings last night, that was the last straw I had no reason to keep it anymore. CSR at the office said this is a brand spanking new box, and how her and her coworker "need to watch all their shows on their 3412 and get a new 3416 now.." must be nice(i'm sure they get them for free) They knew what they were talking about since she paused when she saw I had the DVI on the 6412, I said that's fine, i'll buy an hdmi cable to gain 40GB more space!

I haven't had time to do anything other than hook it up and verify it turns on, which it does (didn't even need activation). Wasn't getting anything from the component out, but then tried the other set of component jacks on my tv and it worked, so I gotta figure that one out.

First/immediate impressions:
-smaller, and runs quieter than my old 6412.
-Menu response time seemed quicker while watching HD.
-Firmware 12.22
-After being on for maybe 2 minutes, I had some guide info, the 6412 would take at least 10 minutes for titles to start showing up.
-Obviously this is a 3416, and I could indeed read the label on the HD through the vents on top, it said 160GB :p


I had to get going to work so i haven't been able to check signal levels or temps yet.

I'll report back on what works, what doesn't, I have to see if I can still dump to my PC over firewire.

Since the 3412 is an all-digital box, it needs to be "getting its signal from the right office," or so I was told when I was brought 3 new HD DVR boxes from Comcast and my lower channels didn't work at all. You'd think this is why they insist someone come out when you move, to make sure everything is set up properly.

The last couple times I had a tech out, they got tired of waiting for the signal from Comcast's office, told me it should be sent within an hour or so, and left.

Wasn't getting anything from the component out, but then tried the other set of component jacks on my tv and it worked, so I gotta figure that one out.
Good luck! You might find that the box works 100% better with component cables than your old box did with dvi. When you buy the new HDMI cable and hook it up, the box might start to go on the fritz again - hopefully not.

Just got a brand new 3416PII this morning, my old 6412PII had been acting up recently, and deleted ALL my recordings last night, that was the last straw I had no reason to keep it anymore. CSR at the office said this is a brand spanking new box, and how her and her coworker "need to watch all their shows on their 3412 and get a new 3416 now.." must be nice(i'm sure they get them for free) They knew what they were talking about since she paused when she saw I had the DVI on the 6412, I said that's fine, i'll buy an hdmi cable to gain 40GB more space!

I haven't had time to do anything other than hook it up and verify it turns on, which it does (didn't even need activation). Wasn't getting anything from the component out, but then tried the other set of component jacks on my tv and it worked, so I gotta figure that one out.

First/immediate impressions:
-smaller, and runs quieter than my old 6412.
-Menu response time seemed quicker while watching HD.
-Firmware 12.22
-After being on for maybe 2 minutes, I had some guide info, the 6412 would take at least 10 minutes for titles to start showing up.
-Obviously this is a 3416, and I could indeed read the label on the HD through the vents on top, it said 160GB :p


I had to get going to work so i haven't been able to check signal levels or temps yet.

I'll report back on what works, what doesn't, I have to see if I can still dump to my PC over firewire.


I too have swapped out my 6412 III about 2 weeks ago, but I ended up with a 3416 Phase I. Can anyone tell me what the difference is between Phase I and Phase II? Is it worth my time to go do an exchange and loose my recordings?

Upon closer inspection it turns out i have a PI 3416, not a PII.

After having played with it some more:

-It was running at 104degrees when I got home, definetly cooler than the old one. Feels cooler to the touch(still warm though, to be expected).

-Firewire works to the TV, haven't tried recording to DVHS but i'm sure it does.

-Signal levels are improved. OOB went up to between 19.5ish and 20.8, as you know 20.0 is the threshold for "good" They were about 1.0-1.5 below that with the old 6412. In band is higher too, tuners 1 and 2 are now very close to each other, the 6412's #2 tuner always was ~3-4db lower. Both are running right around 37.0-37.7db, well into the "good" I think this is pretty good considering I have to split it 3 times b/c my entire apartment has 1 jack. 1 side of the main spliter to the computer to another that goes to thetv card in the PC and the cable modem. Then from the other side of the main spliter is a split to the tv's QAM and the 3412.

-Overall PQ is softer on SD and HD. Not sure if I like it yet or not. I have ordered an HDMI-HDMI cable so we'll see how that goes once it gets here.

-Menu response is definetly faster, and the same speed if you are in SD or HD. Used to be before if I wanted to search for something in the guide, I would make sure to tune to an SD channel so it could be done much faster! No longer the case. I haven't had any remote hangups yet, i'm sure they'll come in time.

-Still running the same S/W version as before. The new version has the screen saver, changes DVR button action, couple other things. Who knows if/when I'll get that. But I think I hit a dead end with updates on the old 6412 PII still on the 9.XX firmware.

-Will be recording some HD tonight and see how it does. Oh and I looked on the diagnostics, sure enough 160GB :D

-FF and REW basically don't work with the firewire plugged in, the firewire bug. This didn't exist with the 6412! Whenever I transfer to the PC I have to unplug the box anyway to move it to the computer, and I don't record to DVHS too often so it's not a huge deal to leave the firewire unplugged for now I guess. If this is what I have to deal with and everything else works better, I suppose I can live with it.

I think I'm gonna do a full reset/auth on it tonight before I go to bed, just to make sure i'm pulling the latest firmware which is still only 12.22. I'm very interested in 12.31 or 12.35, someone said they could use HDMI with their reciever(DENON)'s switching capability! While I don't have the reciver yet, I will before too long. Couple posts seemed to say that sometime in mid september something will be pushed out.

I finally had Comcast replace my misbehaving first-generation DCT6412 which, three or four times, had spontaneously reset itself and cleared all recordings and all metadata, exactly as if I had performed a Master Reset (which I had not).

When I put in the request I told the CSR that I wanted a box with an HDMI output but I also asked them to note specifically that I wanted a box with a 160GB hard drive (not knowing whether Comcast was even deploying them yet in my area).

To my surprise, the tech showed up with a DCT3416.

So far, so good, though it's certainly too early to tell. It's only been a few hours.

The problem I'm having now is that I can't capture data from the 3416 on the XP system that I had been using for captures from the 6412. I re-downloaded the drivers from http://http://replayguide.sourceforge.net/dct6412/ and installed them as described on that page (though the installation messages differed a little from what's described there).

CapDVHS sees the device ("Digital A/V Tuner Device") but the captures aren't usable--it never detects the resolution of the data and populates the data info. The streams I tried to capture were network broadcasts, which aren't encrypted, so there should be no issue there.

Is there another set of drivers I should be using rather than the ones I downloaded from the above-mentioned page, something that's known to work better with the 3416? Or are there some additional tweaks I need to apply, or something obvious that I might have overlooked? (I think I still have the original drivers that I used with the 6412 available, though what I just downloaded is supposed to be newer.)

Thanks.

Anyone know of problems with audio when turning the box on and off. I hooked up the box tonight with HDMI cable. As soon as I did I lost all audio until I unplugged power cord and plugged back in. I then lost it again when I turned the box off later on to check menu settings. Any workaround for this? Should I unplug the component cables to prevent this? Thanks for any help.

According to the Wall Street Journal, "Verizon is taking more of its television technology development into its own hands and relying less on its partner Microsoft. Software from Microsoft is a key part of the TV set-top box that Verizon is marketing to millions of customers in seven states. But during the two years the project has been in development, the phone company became so frustrated with delays and technical glitches with Microsoft's technology that it replaced some of Microsoft's personnel and software with its own."

Wonder when Comcast is gonna follow suit...

Any workaround for this?

Leave the box on.

Leave the box on.

Yes that would work except when you have a wife that hits all the buttons on the remote becuase she cannot remember which one does what. Getting a new wife is probably out of the question too. :)

Getting a new wife is probably out of the question too. :)

You lose half on the trade-in ;)

jokercard, disable the dvr power button and the allon button will not turn the dvr off.

check out the wiki

en.wikibooks[dot]org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR/Programming_the_Remote#Disable_DVR_Power_key

Do at your own Risk!


STB Authorizeation and Factory Full Reset

*** Be warned this will erase all STB Settings & Your Cable Account Info from the STB ***

*** This will normaly (some reports that it will on the 34xx series) not delete your DVR settings or Stored Shows on the Hard Drive. ***

Reset procedure

Step 1

Unplug Power Cord from STB.

Step 2

on the STB, Press & Hold {Power & Menu} Keys while plugging the Power Cord back into the STB.

The Display should now say (BOOT)

Step 3

Let Go of the {Power & Menu} Keys and press the up or down arrow keys till you see (n DL) on the Display.

Step 4

Push the {Select} Key To begin STB Authorizeation & Downloading of current STB software, IPG software, STB / DVR Firmware from your Cable Head End. Could take up to 20+ min to download. You should see [DL] in the display with a led line moving in a square.


After it completes this Download the STB will then Reset/reboot and begin to download the Time setting info for the STB Clock & then Download your cable account info and STB settings. After this is done, it will begin to populate the IPG info. Keep your STB on Standby/Off mode to speed up the IPG Data download. Could take up to 24 Hours to fill in all 2 weeks of IPG info.

Does anyone know what all the other options in the boot dl menu does... I can't remember if I found it by myself or on wikipedia but I do remember a multipage service menu...

I have the Comcast/Motorola DCT3412 I and am wondering...what is the USB port on the back for? Can I connect a hard drive and have more recording space? Furthermore, what is the ethernet port for as well? Both just dummies for "future use" (like the USB ports on the DirecTV DVRs for the past 5 years)? Thanks!

http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR

The USB port(s) and Ethernet are disabled/non-functional.

Jokercard: how do you have the audio connected? There is an option in the user menu for HDMI audio, you might wanna futz with that. I haven't had any problems with audio - I use HDMI for video only, and optical SPDIF to a receiver for audio. In the HDMI menu I set the audio output to "pass-thru", not sure if that matters but...

Is there another set of drivers I should be using rather than the ones I downloaded from the above-mentioned page, something that's known to work better with the 3416? Or are there some additional tweaks I need to apply, or something obvious that I might have overlooked? (I think I still have the original drivers that I used with the 6412 available, though what I just downloaded is supposed to be newer.)
Yeah I didn't have any luck with the 6412 drivers on my 3412 either, I used some different ones I found........ here http://hdjunkie.com/tutorials.html