We got FIOS TV about a year ago. Struggled with the Vz HD DVR for a few months ( this was long before the new IMG ) The Vz HD DVR was patently unreliable at scheduling recordings. For irregular broadcasts like (please don"t laugh) Big brother, it was clueless.

Switched to Tivo HD and it hasn't missed a beat (or a program). In fact, either in this thread or the programming thread, a member with an awful lot of posts under his belt was expressing his desire to throw in the towel with Tivo and get the FIOS DVR. I don't get that - it may not be for everyone, but for doing what its supposed to do, the Tivo has been exceptional for me. Forgot to add the kicker - the FIOS DVR twice froze or otherwise malfunctioned on us so bad we had to call tech support. Once, they hit the box remotely (the other time a tech came to visit but i think he called the central office to hit the box too), and both times the result was a fried DVR with all recordings gone.

Not a great way to inspire confidence in a company's hardware. You'll get my Tivo when you pry it from my cold, dead hands.

Did anyone get a fix on the green band on the right side/offset image band on the lft 1080i/hdmi issue?

ALSO is there a trick to getting the IR in to work for my remote??

Anyone?

After sniffin' round several forums I have made the decission to get a tivo hd and have the fios folks toss in a couple of 'cable cards' -


By "toss in" do you mean they are giving them to you @ no monthly charge ? I couldn't even get them to budge off the $3.99 ea price. That's trying 4 different phone calls. "sorry, my screen has no options that allow me to change that".

Guys, I'd love to get to the install stage,but....
I have been trying to order the Fios 3 pack for the past 2 weeks and I can't get a straight answer from anyone on the phone on the package promos. Even went to the local mall Fios kiosk and the poor guy there couldn't even procees the order w/the promos he had on the brochure he received last week ? After over an hour with him and a supervisor on the phone ( Encore dept, whatever that is) I gave up and left. What a screwed up company !

Here are the promos @$94.99:
TV- Premier package
Internet - 20mps/5

No matter what he did he couldn't get that price unless he dropped the internet speed down to 10mps/2.

The Premier pack has a 1st mo free promo--wouldn't process
HBO has a 3 mo free promo-wouuldn't process.

BTW, something they don't mention in their TV ads-Free Samsung camera or CC gift card ONLY available if you order via phone. If you order via phone, the the online free months promos goes away.

These people make me want to open a vein !:mad:

I have FIOS for about 1 1/2 years now. I just bought a pio elite 1150 and tried to order another HD box. Verizon is out until mid March, so I have them coming tomorrow to install the Cable Card until the HD boxes come in.

I have heard rumors about the CC having issues with the TTV Guide OS.

Any insite would be appreciated.

Also, I have seen on these boards that some believe the HD looks much better then with the box. Interested in peoples experience with this

On a technical note,

- Has anyone experienced times when the picutre looks like it is loosing frames of the video being sent, giving it a somewhat jerky appearance

- Also get some severe lipsync going on. Like a bad Chinese movie. Is this common?

At 1 point, I had them replace everything all the way back to the main office, and it still happens on an off.

Here are the promos @$94.99:
TV- Premier package
Internet - 20mps/5

No matter what he did he couldn't get that price unless he dropped the internet speed down to 10mps/2.

BTW, something they don't mention in their TV ads-Free Samsung camera or CC gift card ONLY available if you order via phone. If you order via phone, the the online free months promos goes away.

These people make me want to open a vein !:mad:

That's a better promo than they are running here... they just went up on their triple play to 104.99
TV -Premier
Phone -Freedom
Internet -5/2
-that was locked for 12 months.
to lock for 24, it was 109.99

That's a better promo than they are running here... they just went up on their triple play to 104.99
TV -Premier
Phone -Freedom
Internet -5/2
-that was locked for 12 months.
to lock for 24, it was 109.99
Yes, it does vary by state. I also forgot, in my post, to mention the Feedom Essentials, for phone in that 3 pack, that I'm paying $41.99 for now.

1. SNY (Channel 831 in NY market) is not coming in at all. All other channels seem to work.

2. How does the TV Guide work. It is in the middle of updating and it says the TV has to be off. Will it sync up with FIOS service? Are the channels the same in all markets?

In regards to PQ, it seems, at first glance, to be much better the the STB.

The tech came to my house, because they would not let me pick it up. He got here and said that he had only installed 2 of them. he also said the PQ is the same as with the box and that i loose functionality(PPV,VOD,etc.)

When he called it in to FIOS Tech Center, he could not get it to sync up. I asked him if he had attached the RF cable, and sure enough, he had not. Go Figure!!!!

That's a better promo than they are running here... they just went up on their triple play to 104.99
TV -Premier
Phone -Freedom
Internet -5/2
-that was locked for 12 months.
to lock for 24, it was 109.99
Update :
Well. lo and behold, as of 2 hrs ago Vzn has updated their order process for Fios on their site. Now the bundle (triple, double plays) are clearly lined up w/all the current promos. Free SS camera or $200 CC gift card, 1st mo of Premier TV and Internet free. 3 mos of HBO free, Internet speed is 20/5. Phone is Feeedom Essentials. All ,with 2 year committment, came to $99.99 ( not counting STB options of course) Placed the order w/no problems. At last they got it right !!:D

Well. one small problem, the print button on the order confirmation page doesn't work.

Update :
Well. lo and behold, as of 2 hrs ago Vzn has updated their order process for Fios on their site. Now the bundle (triple, double plays) are clearly lined up w/all the current promos. Free SS camera or $200 CC gift card, 1st mo of Premier TV and Internet free. 3 mos of HBO free, Internet speed is 20/5. Phone is Feeedom Essentials. All ,with 2 year committment, came to $99.99 ( not counting STB options of course) Placed the order w/no problems. At last they got it right !!:D

Well. one small problem, the print button on the order confirmation page doesn't work.

What a deal...
In [Central] VA, the promo is:
Free digital camera plus 1st mo FiOS internet & TV free.
Phone -Freedom Essential, 15/2 Internet, Premier TV w/ 1 or 2 year commitment is $114.99, Order HBO, free for 3 months.
Dropping internet to 5/2 TP becomes 104.99 (1yr) & 109.99 (2yr)
No STB's included on any.

Why is there that much of a difference?

I'm getting ready to order FIOS package and don't see the STB HD DVR in the choices on VZ's web site. It was there last month @ $16.95 (non media manager version) Am I missing something?

They're out of HD boxes of any kind to rent out.

They're out of HD boxes of any kind to rent out.That was an old post of mine from 2/08. I ordered an HD DVR yesterday from the web site and it was an option @ $15.95/mo (non dvr HD was also available)

I tried that too, several times, but I never get a confirm.
Shadowcaster, did you get one?

j_bee, if you mean was it shown on the order confirmation page, yes it was,
HOWEVER, I ran into a Vzn cable installer at my neighbor's yesterday and he told me that they didn't have a single HD box, of any kind, at their facility.

So, I'm prepared for the installer to show up with a SD DVR.

What a deal...
In [Central] VA, the promo is:
Free digital camera plus 1st mo FiOS internet & TV free.
Phone -Freedom Essential, 15/2 Internet, Premier TV w/ 1 or 2 year commitment is $114.99, Order HBO, free for 3 months.
Dropping internet to 5/2 TP becomes 104.99 (1yr) & 109.99 (2yr)
No STB's included on any.

Why is there that much of a difference?
It varies by state. Plus Vzn TV programs are still a work in progress. I received a mailing from them yesterday stating the Triple Freedom package , with 20/5 internet, was $94.99. That price doesn't exist !

2. How does the TV Guide work. It is in the middle of updating and it says the TV has to be off. Will it sync up with FIOS service? Are the channels the same in all markets?



Expect some variation in channels from market to market, but the base of channels especially HD should be very similar.

you should have had to enter in your Zip code to get your specific channel lineup.

Is your TV guide getting populated with data?

You should get day 1 and day 7 or 8 after 1 nighttime sync. then another 2 days worth every night. after a week or so, you should have 8 days out filled.


I have 3 devices with Cablecard and TVGOS and since there seems to be a shortage of HD-DVR with Fios, I may as well not get one and just use cablecards, but only if the guides are working so I'd like to know if your guide is working.

Guys,

I have had my service for about a month now. The rumors of limited HD box stock appeared around then. The rep told me that people would be told about the SD temporary replacement category when you placed the order.

Give them a ring.... never know.

BG

easy question regarding the verizon Digital Adapters (cable cards): the fios site says "High Definition Channels, Video on Demand (VOD) and other interactive services such as Multi-Room DVR, Media Manger and Widgets are not supported". i know that 2-way services such as VOD and widgets won't work, but if you plug the card into a HDTV or HD TiVo, you still can get the HD programming, correct?

i've read of some hassles getting these cards to work with the Series 3 Tivo: any comments on how to make that transition easier?

easy question regarding the verizon Digital Adapters (cable cards): the fios site says "High Definition Channels, Video on Demand (VOD) and other interactive services such as Multi-Room DVR, Media Manger and Widgets are not supported". i know that 2-way services such as VOD and widgets won't work, but if you plug the card into a HDTV or HD TiVo, you still can get the HD programming, correct?

i've read of some hassles getting these cards to work with the Series 3 Tivo: any comments on how to make that transition easier?

Hmmm... it does say the part about HD Channels. I believe that's wrong; I don't have these (I use the Vz HD DVR) but enough people are using cable cards and Tivo / HDPC's for HD recording that I don't think that's accurate.

The rest is correct.

I'm having FIOS tv installed next Friday (3/14). My coax is at least 18 years old. Should I have vz run new coax or stick with the old?

tia...jean

Expect some variation in channels from market to market, but the base of channels especially HD should be very similar.

you should have had to enter in your Zip code to get your specific channel lineup.

Is your TV guide getting populated with data?

You should get day 1 and day 7 or 8 after 1 nighttime sync. then another 2 days worth every night. after a week or so, you should have 8 days out filled.


I have 3 devices with Cablecard and TVGOS and since there seems to be a shortage of HD-DVR with Fios, I may as well not get one and just use cablecards, but only if the guides are working so I'd like to know if your guide is working.

I did enter my Zipcode on setup. What Market are you in?
Not sure if FIOS channels are the same in all markets, but I am on Long Island in NY. FIOS has their HiDef in the 800's. TVGOS is showing the HD channels in the 700's. So far, it is useless. I had the card installed on Thursday morning, and it is still updating. 800' are currently Blank.

The PQ appears to be better then what I had with my Hidef box that I had moved from my Bedroom temporarily.

I have a HD box on order and when they arrive, i will keep both and do a direct comparison of quality. You do loose a lot of features such as VOD which I use for all the Pay channels, and the HD DVR Media option. Not to concerned about PPV.

Does anyone know when VOD will be offered in Hi Def?

I'm having FIOS tv installed next Friday (3/14). My coax is at least 18 years old. Should I have vz run new coax or stick with the old? tia...jeanLet them make the decision. They'll run some tests to see if they can use the existing stuff first. No reason to run new coax unless it's needed.

easy question regarding the verizon Digital Adapters (cable cards): the fios site says "High Definition Channels, Video on Demand (VOD) and other interactive services such as Multi-Room DVR, Media Manger and Widgets are not supported". i know that 2-way services such as VOD and widgets won't work, but if you plug the card into a HDTV or HD TiVo, you still can get the HD programming, correct?

i've read of some hassles getting these cards to work with the Series 3 Tivo: any comments on how to make that transition easier?

I think you're talking about two different sources.

The literature i've seen from Vz re: the analog shutdown refers to a new, smaller STB with no IP features(i.e VOD & IMG) as a "Digital Adapter". It's just a smaller Motorola cable box-SD only so obviously you won't get HD.

I have never seen CableCards referred to as "Digital Adapters". if the QAM tuner in your TV or Tivo can tune HD chs there's no reason you couldn't get them with a CableCard.


and david_miller: FiOS does have HD VOD in some markets(mine being one of them).
what is offered appears to vary by market(the bulk of HD VOD in mine are PPV movies).

really can't say when HD VOD will come to your market but it will eventually.

They're out of HD boxes of any kind to rent out.

That's funny to hear.

I returned a Motorola box in favor of a Series 3 TiVo.

On each of the 7 tech visits that it took to get my cable cards going in my Series 3 TiVo, the tech endlessly tried to talk me into using their Motorola HD DVR and scrap my TiVo. They even brought a box into the house and wanted to show it to me. I swear they must get a commission on box rentals.

FIOS Technical Support just *assured* me that no Multi-Stream FIOS CableCards have been offered in the USA. Can anyone counter that? Thanks, Tom

That's funny to hear.

I returned a Motorola box in favor of a Series 3 TiVo.

On each of the 7 tech visits that it took to get my cable cards going in my Series 3 TiVo, the tech endlessly tried to talk me into using their Motorola HD DVR and scrap my TiVo. They even brought a box into the house and wanted to show it to me. I swear they must get a commission on box rentals.
It appears to be a real challenge to get the TIVO to work with the CC. My tech who installed my card, and by the way, knew almost nothing, said it took him 4.5 hours to get it to work. That is the reason why. They do not want to work.

I think you're talking about two different different sources.

The literature i've seen from Vz re: the analog shutdown refers to a new, smaller STB with no IP features(i.e VOD & IMG) as a "Digital Adapter". It's just a smaller Motorola cable box-SD only so obviously you won't get HD.

I have never seen CableCards referred to as "Digital Adapters". if the QAM tuner in your TV or Tivo can tune HD chs there's no reason you couldn't get them with a CableCard.


and david_miller: FiOS does have HD VOD in some markets(mine being one of them).
what is offered appears to vary by market(the bulk of HD VOD in mine are PPV movies).

really can't say when HD VOD will come to your market but it will eventually.
We have a very small amount of PPV in HD. I am looking to see the Cinemax, Showtime, HBO VOD in HD.

It appears to be a real challenge to get the TIVO to work with the CC. My tech who installed my card, and by the way, knew almost nothing, said it took him 4.5 hours to get it to work. That is the reason why. They do not want to work.

I agree totally.

Further my point is:
If you really want the Motorola box (What did PT Barnum say about a sucker?) then if Verizon claims they don't have a Motorola box, threaten to connect a TiVo. They'll pull one out of their a** instantly.

Only a small percentage of cards is defective. Instead, the 'problem' with new cards (in original packaging) is generally that they weren't previously entered into Verizon's system as a valid card. If that wasn't done at the office prior to the installer's arrival, it won't work.

The second problem is older cards. Many times, installers will have cards from prior installs, either from former customers or from failed setups / activations. From what I understand, these will not work until they've been removed and re-entered into the system by the regional office.

I am having the FiOS triple play installed in about two weeks. That has got me wanting to extend both my home network and to run COAX to more rooms for video.

All of the lines need to be run through the basement so putting the Actiontec router in the basement would simplify would simplify running both types of lines and be less intrusive in the living area...

BUT the basement is often damp and some times (line now) it gets a little wet even with the sump pump going... That does not sound like a good place for electronic equipment to be for a long time!

Should I worry about that? Putting the router upstairs would mean would mean bringing up one new COAX and 3 new ethernet cables into a bedroom from the basement through the floor (need to drill).

What would you do? Would you put the Router in the basement in this case?

Thanks,
- Karen

Yes, humidity and electronics don't mix. Remember that you are renting the equipment from Verizon. If it breaks, they replace it. My router is in the basement (also the ONT, but that's designed for outdoors).

If you have other stuff in the basement that could benefit, this might be a good time to get a dehumidifier. Otherwise, wait until Verizon arrives for the install - they won't be able to tell you anything until they show up and look at it.

Yes, humidity and electronics don't mix. Remember that you are renting the equipment from Verizon. If it breaks, they replace it. My router is in the basement (also the ONT, but that's designed for outdoors).


Thanks... I've heard from a lot of people (I asked elsewhere) and most have said to avoid putting the router in my basement.

BTW why do have the ONT in the basement?


If you have other stuff in the basement that could benefit, this might be a good time to get a dehumidifier. Otherwise, wait until Verizon arrives for the install - they won't be able to tell you anything until they show up and look at it.

As i want to connect the router to the ONT by ethernet as well as COAX, from all I've read, I need to run the ethernet cable myself before they get here because they won't do it.

Also I want the ONT on the side of the house and all the connection (Eithernet, COAX, BBU) to go up and into the attic on that side...

However the phone lines come into the basement from the front and the existing cable TV comes into the attic above that so I know they will want to put it there... But the power also comes in there to the basement.. and that while area is an absolute mess.

This is an old ranch which has had 2 additions. The main power Box uses fuses and is right where the phone comes in... One of the big fuse holders broke and can't be replaced as the Manufacturer went out of business ... It was the circuit for the dryer so I am without one right now! Also the house only has 110 AMP service which need to be upgraded... Bottom line is before long were are going to have a lot of work done RIGHT where they would want to put the ONT and run the phone and BBU lines! better save than sorry I think.

Besides no on can really see the side of the house where I want the ONT, and having it on the side would make the house look from better the front/curb particularly without COAX and ethernet running up the front of the house!

I figure if I run COAX and ethernet from where I want the router, and another ethernet cable from the basement both the a place in the attic near where I want the ONT, the installer would likely take the path of least resistance and do what i want! ;)

Thanks,
- Karen

BTW why do have the ONT in the basement?...
As i want to connect the router to the ONT by ethernet as well as COAX, from all I've read, I need to run the ethernet cable myself before they get here because they won't do it.
Also I want the ONT on the side of the house and all the connection (Eithernet, COAX, BBU) to go up and into the attic on that side...
However the phone lines come into the basement from the front and the existing cable TV comes into the attic above that so I know they will want to put it there... But the power also comes in there to the basement.. and that while area is an absolute mess...
I figure if I run COAX and ethernet from where I want the router, and another ethernet cable from the basement both the a place in the attic near where I want the ONT, the installer would likely take the path of least resistance and do what i want! KarenA - I have the ONT in the basement because the outside location was too visible from the street. You might want to have the ONT installed in your basement also. That should make things much simpler for you and let your upcoming electric work proceed without worrying about a big white box in the way. The downside is that you need to be home if they ever need to service it. The upside is that they almost never need to service it. Diagnostics, etc. are done remotely from their computers.

The installers have creative ways to get that fiber cable to the ONT. All they need to get into the house is one small hole for the fiber optic cable. Fiber can be run a long way before they have to worry about anything. Since it's Verizon, they may follow the path for the phone line instead of the cable TV coax into the house. Available power (+ ground) may guide their decision. Also, the TV signal coming out of the ONT is a lot stronger than what's used for cable TV. That gives the installers longer cable runs to work with.

If you put the router in the bedroom, that's only one hole to drill, not four. You can fit a bunch of ethernet cables and a coax or 2 through one hole. Bunch them together to see what I mean. Don't forget to make it big enough to pass the coax connector. You're talking about a hole size less than an inch in diameter.

You don't need to run any ethernet cables from the router back to the ONT. The router talks to the ONT totally over the coax (note all lower case, short for "coaxial" cable, used for RF). All of your computer's ethernet cables get plugged into the router. There's a wiring diagram on this web site, but it's not totally correct: http://www.fiosfaq.com/content.php?contentid=41 (Maybe that's where you are getting your info from). There should not be a "Cat 5 ethernet" connection from the ONT to the router. Not needed (I don't have it either). The way that the ONT talks to the router is called MoCA (Multimedia over Coax Alliance), but that may be too much info to digest right now.

Check out the Verizon FiOS and Fiber Optics forums over on DSL reports. There's a ton of info to read: http://www.dslreports.com/forum/vzfiostv, http://www.dslreports.com/forum/vzfiber

Thanks GeekGirl,

Putting the ONT in the basement would make the wiring a lot simpler, but that would mean the line would have to go through the vinyl siding in the front of the house because the addition on the side does not have a basement. (the phone lines were there before the siding and enter the basement under the vinyl)

But maybe that is not an issue.

BTW the existing coax for the house is run through the attic so one way or another Coax is going to have to get up there from the ONT.

The side of the house where I think the ONT should go in pretty much out of sight to everyone because of trees and already has the central air compressor and a conduit to the attic for that.

As to holes, I'm using quad shielded coax and need 3 coax and 3 (4 if I run one to the ONT) cat 5e cables coming into bedroom with the router.

I drilled a hole with a the largest drill bit I had and it could not fit that many cables through it... Not even close! So I drilled a second hole and now can accommodate all cables easily easily.

I know that all I need is a coax connection, but the ONT can be configured to do both as in that diagram. Having a Cat 5 line to the ONT gives you the option of using your own Router for the net (connecting theirs to yours for the TV part) which can have be an advantage I've read because of limitations with their router.

In any case , doing it that way gives me redundancy... If there was a problem on the MoCAT line or with the coax cable I could still have internet access... I don't think I could survive for a few days without TV or the net waiting for a service call!!!! ;)

It would also let me switch back Comcast or go to RCN for TV in the future and keep FiOS for internet and phone with less issues.


Thanks again,
- Karen

We have a very small amount of PPV in HD. I am looking to see the Cinemax, Showtime, HBO VOD in HD.

not so good news on that-we used to have HBO-HD & Starz!-HD VOD but it was gone after the trial period. except for 1 or 2 HDNet movies the only HD VOD movies we have now are pay. reasonable selection but @$5.99 pricey.

not so good news on that-we used to have HBO-HD & Starz!-HD VOD but it was gone after the trial period. except for 1 or 2 HDNet movies the only HD VOD movies we have now are pay. reasonable selection but @$5.99 pricey.

From the Conspiracy theoriest view, If all new movies and VOD was in HD, there would be less demand for BlueRay players/movies since you could get almost similiar resolution on Demand.

For example, I have a new Pio 1150, which is 720p/1080i. Afte watching movies like the Barnyard and 300 on the premium channels, i find it highly unlikely that at my 10 ft viewing distance, it would be much better.
So i believe that they are not allowed to offer due to licensing restrictions.

Any Thoughts?

From the Conspiracy theoriest view, If all new movies and VOD was in HD, there would be less demand for BlueRay players/movies since you could get almost similiar resolution on Demand.

For example, I have a new Pio 1150, which is 720p/1080i. Afte watching movies like the Barnyard and 300 on the premium channels, i find it highly unlikely that at my 10 ft viewing distance, it would be much better.
So i believe that they are not allowed to offer due to licensing restrictions.

Any Thoughts?

I was also disappointed at first when we got HD VOD for real (not the beta, that had lots of content). In Mass., I think I'm a bit further down the curve than you right now.

Initially (about a month or so ago), we only had the pay HD VOD; over time, they have added a lot more content, at first just MHD (MTV) and some Golf tips videos as free content. This was annoying, since I saw History channel and many other things during the Beta. I now have about 12 different sources of free HD VOD, including CBS tv shows, Discovery, Cinemax and others. As an example, initially MHD carried a couple of 7 minute videos by obscure artists, but now it is really loading up - A full Christina Aguilera concert, Alicia Keys videos, a mixed rock'n'roll concert, a full Heart concert and many smaller videos. As a music fan, this is exactly what I was looking for.

The quality of the HD VOD at first was not quite up to snuff, I saw some pixelation, but since the upgrade (I think), even tough material like the Christina Aguilera concert, with all of the pyrotechnics and fast movement was rock solid.

On the 300, I have it on HD-DVD (don't ask), and compared it with the HD VOD version. I do see a difference, especially on the sound (I can process TrueHD sound - HD-A35), but not enough to take away from the enjoyment of the movie.

So I'd counsel patience, the content fills in pretty quickly, I think.

Guys,

I noticed a recent post or two about folks considering combining fios with a Tivo Series 3 or HD machine. I have had mine for about 1.5 months now and am enjoying the service. Cablecards do work well and I believe the challenges are more human error than the cards being bad.

In my case, returning and replacing the Tivo solved my problems.

Here is a link I posted that described the process (in detail) for getting my service working. I hope some find it valuable.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13108591#post13108591

- Brian

P.S. - The Tivo picture was macroblocking on certain channels a few days into the service. Adding Attenuators to the line solved the problem. Picture is great ever since.

Karen,

Just an FYI

They have 2-3 different ONT boxes on the truck. My install is in a crawlspace that can be accessed from inside my home. The installer opted for the "apartment" version of the ONT. This is a slightly more compact unit that is designed for an install in situations like apartment buildings or Condos.

Brian


I am having the FiOS triple play installed in about two weeks. That has got me wanting to extend both my home network and to run COAX to more rooms for video.

All of the lines need to be run through the basement so putting the Actiontec router in the basement would simplify would simplify running both types of lines and be less intrusive in the living area...

BUT the basement is often damp and some times (line now) it gets a little wet even with the sump pump going... That does not sound like a good place for electronic equipment to be for a long time!

Should I worry about that? Putting the router upstairs would mean would mean bringing up one new COAX and 3 new ethernet cables into a bedroom from the basement through the floor (need to drill).

What would you do? Would you put the Router in the basement in this case?

Thanks,
- Karen

From the Conspiracy theoriest view, If all new movies and VOD was in HD, there would be less demand for BlueRay players/movies since you could get almost similiar resolution on Demand.

For example, I have a new Pio 1150, which is 720p/1080i. Afte watching movies like the Barnyard and 300 on the premium channels, i find it highly unlikely that at my 10 ft viewing distance, it would be much better.
So i believe that they are not allowed to offer due to licensing restrictions.

Any Thoughts?

IMHO a few facts don't support this idea.

I've read that one of the premium movie chs has dropped HD on demand altogether.

other video providers like Comcast et. al. DO offer HBO-HD, etc. on demand.

some industry analysts are already predicting that HD downloads may surpass Blu-Ray in the consumer market.

as hernanu points out you can get HD PQ on demand but not(as yet) the latest lossless audio codecs like DolbyTrueHD.

and it's been posted on this thread & others that, as far as Vz is concerned, HD on demand is still limited by bandwidth issues(apparently compromising internet speeds).

Guys,

I noticed a recent post or two about folks considering combining fios with a Tivo Series 3 or HD machine. I have had mine for about 1.5 months now and am enjoying the service. Cablecards do work well and I believe the challenges are more human error than the cards being bad.

In my case, returning and replacing the Tivo solved my problems.

Here is a link I posted that described the process (in detail) for getting my service working. I hope some find it valuable.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13108591#post13108591

- Brian

P.S. - The Tivo picture was macroblocking on certain channels a few days into the service. Adding Attenuators to the line solved the problem. Picture is great ever since.

In my case, an attenuator that Verizon added in the original install was causing the OOB signal to be too weak to address the cards. Once removed, the cards were initialized and authorized without an issue. I now get macroblocking on the lower channels (2-49) only. Since I don't ever watch those, I leave well enough alone. It took Verizon 7 visits to realize this. I pointed out to each installer that the diagnostic screen was showing no OOB lock, but the first 6 blew me off.

The Series 3 is sooooo much better than the Motorola DVR and worth every penny of the TiVo subscription.

Anyone know how to change receiver inputs using the universal remote Fios provides? THe power and volume buttons work on the receiver (AUX) but I can;t change inputs.

From the Conspiracy theoriest view, If all new movies and VOD was in HD, there would be less demand for BlueRay players/movies since you could get almost similiar resolution on Demand.

For example, I have a new Pio 1150, which is 720p/1080i. After watching movies like the Barnyard and 300 on the premium channels, i find it highly unlikely that at my 10 ft viewing distance, it would be much better.
So i believe that they are not allowed to offer due to licensing restrictions.

Any Thoughts?

While I cannot answer to what the resolution is that Verizon uses for HD movies, my one complaint is that the audio is not being sent out with Dolby Digital. I want to say my receiver is picking it up as Pro Logic. It sounds ok, but surround sound from a movie is just as important as they picture.

Also with Blu-Ray, you get all the extra features on the disc, something that a lot of people enjoy.

IMHO a few facts don't support this idea.

I've read that one of the premium movie chs has dropped HD on demand altogether.

other video providers like Comcast et. al. DO offer HBO-HD, etc. on demand.

some industry analysts are already predicting that HD downloads may surpass Blu-Ray in the consumer market.

as hernanu points out you can get HD PQ on demand but not(as yet) the latest lossless audio codecs like DolbyTrueHD.

and it's been posted on this thread & others that, as far as Vz is concerned, HD on demand is still limited by bandwidth issues(apparently compromising internet speeds).
I yield to your knowledge :)

IMHO a few facts don't support this idea.

I've read that one of the premium movie chs has dropped HD on demand altogether.

other video providers like Comcast et. al. DO offer HBO-HD, etc. on demand.

and it's been posted on this thread & others that, as far as Vz is concerned, HD on demand is still limited by bandwidth issues(apparently compromising internet speeds).


Yes, I have Comcast and there is no longer any HBO-HD On Demand. Cinemax, Encore, Starz, & Showtime do have HD On Demand. We don't have TMC-HD. There are also some Free Movies in HD On Demand.

I am strongly considering FIOS TV and have 3 questions:

1. What are the characteristics of the STB RF output? Can I run a long coax from there directly to another TV that is set to Channel 3? What resolution appears at the second set? I am hoping to watch the same program in the family room and kitchen without an STB in the kitchen.

2. What are the dimensions of the non-DVR STB (or where do I find them)?

3. Does Verizon have a vacation suspension policy for TV so I don't have to pay while away for a month (DirecTV does)?

Thanks.

Putting the ONT in the basement would make the wiring a lot simpler, but that would mean the line would have to go through the vinyl siding in the front of the house because the addition on the side does not have a basement. (the phone lines were there before the siding and enter the basement under the vinyl) But maybe that is not an issue.It's not. That's how my fiber gets into the house. Looks like you have everything in hand. Now the hard part - waiting. Remember not to cancel any existing services, like cable TV or internet until FiOS is up and running. The appointment could be rescheduled for any number of reasons and you'd be out of luck.

IMHO a few facts don't support this idea.


and it's been posted on this thread & others that, as far as Vz is concerned, HD on demand is still limited by bandwidth issues(apparently compromising internet speeds).

I'd actually be interested in knowing more about this, since I've done some unprofessional tests with HD VOD. I ran some speed tests on my PC's while playing HD VOD on my main display. I didn't see much of an issue, but again - unprofessional. It would be interesting to see some actual numbers where we see the impact on internet speeds cut in.

I am strongly considering FIOS TV and have 3 questions:

1. What are the characteristics of the STB RF output? Can I run a long coax from there directly to another TV that is set to Channel 3? What resolution appears at the second set? I am hoping to watch the same program in the family room and kitchen without an STB in the kitchen.

2. What are the dimensions of the non-DVR STB (or where do I find them)?

3. Does Verizon have a vacation suspension policy for TV so I don't have to pay while away for a month (DirecTV does)?

Thanks.

I don't believe it's an RF output - it's a passthru. You can watch analog chs (below 50) without a STB for a few more months, after that you'll need a TV with a QAM tuner for ch below 50 and an STB for everything else.

There are a couple of non-DVR STBs -SD and HD- they are typical STB sized.

I don't think so.

Hi, my FIOS CC that was installed last week, now seems to only be allowing access to basic cable channels. Nothing past channel 49, and only the basic HD channels (CBS,NBC,ABC,etc.)

Anybody experience this?

I called Verizon, and they could not reset the card, and now I have to wait 2 days for them to call me back to try and fix this.

Hello all
yesterday verizon finished intalling FIOS ( phone , tv, Internet).
I have some questions I hope someone in here can aswer. The installer could not answer regarding dvr settings and HDTV. there was no user guide and tech support was basicly useless ( just reading from script).
I have an Samsung HDTV 1080P 40 in set (95d) and the drv is Moto Qip6416-2
the setting on the dvr ..menue/settings/video format - only gives me 10801, 720, 480i and 480p.
My other provider ( brighthouse cable ) had and addidtional seeting called passthru.
I like that feature as when i watched hd it came across very nice ( some were 10801, 720) and the SDTV came out really nice
Today with the new setup SDTV does not look good ( sorta streched).
I assume beacuse the box is checked for 1080i .. its sort of converting everthing and sdtv does not llok as nice.
does anyone know if the moto qip6416-2 offers the passthru or is there another work around
I really appeaciate any advice.. I have 12 days to decide if i wan to kep this service ..
Thanks
Mike in tamap

Hello all
yesterday verizon finished intalling FIOS ( phone , tv, Internet).
I have some questions I hope someone in here can aswer. The installer could not answer regarding dvr settings and HDTV. there was no user guide and tech support was basicly useless ( just reading from script).
I have an Samsung HDTV 1080P 40 in set (95d) and the drv is Moto Qip6416-2
the setting on the dvr ..menue/settings/video format - only gives me 10801, 720, 480i and 480p.
My other provider ( brighthouse cable ) had and addidtional seeting called passthru.
I like that feature as when i watched hd it came across very nice ( some were 10801, 720) and the SDTV came out really nice
Today with the new setup SDTV does not look good ( sorta streched).
I assume beacuse the box is checked for 1080i .. its sort of converting everthing and sdtv does not llok as nice.
does anyone know if the moto qip6416-2 offers the passthru or is there another work around
I really appeaciate any advice.. I have 12 days to decide if i wan to kep this service ..
Thanks
Mike in tamap

The Moto box does not have a setting for "Passthru" or "Native". You'll need to set it for the best resolution for your set (1081i in your case) and go with that. The box does have settings for how SD is viewed. You can change that so you get the normal 4x3 with side panels if that's your favorite. I forget what they're call since I dumped my Moto for a TiVo, but usually something like "Normal", "Full", "Zoom". You probably have it set to "Full" and would change it to "Normal"

Tivo is totally the best option with Fios. The SD looks awesome with Tivo because there is no processing done to the signal when set to "Native". The moto box got jerked with the latest IMG to further worsen the quality of SD.

Hope this helps.
Carmine.

thank you... so much!

Anyone know how to change receiver inputs using the universal remote Fios provides? THe power and volume buttons work on the receiver (AUX) but I can;t change inputs.

1., 2. Thanks to biker19 (#2801) for the reply.

3. After speaking with a few Verizon people today, I learned that they have a vacation suspension that costs $24, but no other charges during the vacation. I suspect that this may affect bundling discounts.

1., 2. Thanks to biker19 (#2801) for the reply.

3. After speaking with a few Verizon people today, I learned that they have a vacation suspension that costs $24, but no other charges during the vacation. I suspect that this may affect bundling discounts.

It would be interesting to know what exactly they shutdown during a "vacation suspension" :confused:

Hi, my FIOS CC that was installed last week, now seems to only be allowing access to basic cable channels. Nothing past channel 49, and only the basic HD channels (CBS,NBC,ABC,etc.)If it were in a TiVo, I'd say "try rebooting the TiVo" (by power-cycling it). That worked for me. It may work with other CableCard devices, too.

If it were in a TiVo, I'd say "try rebooting the TiVo" (by power-cycling it). That worked for me. It may work with other CableCard devices, too.
I do not have any box right now. It is in the back of the unit.

How do you like TIVO with FIOS?
Do you also have a HD STB?
How long did it take to get it to work? I understand there are some real issues? Is the program guide accurate and up to date?

What features do you loose?

I do not have any box right now. It is in the back of the unit.So, try unplugging the TV, waiting 30 seconds or so, and replugging it.

How do you like TIVO with FIOS?It's good... not perfect, but good.

Do you also have a HD STB?Nope. Don't need one. I do have a regular SD Fios STB on another set, which suffers greatly by comparison.

How long did it take to get it to work?20 minutes or so... not counting the several days I had to wait for a new appointment when the first installer didn't bring the cards.

I understand there are some real issues?The main issue is how obtuse and unhelpful Verizon is about CableCards. I understand this is the way with most cable companies, though. Other than that... the TiVo is perhaps more sensitive to signal problems than the Verizon-provided receivers; many people use attenuators to compensate.

Is the program guide accurate and up to date?More than Verizon's. But I'm not completely happy with either of them.

What features do you loose?VOD. That's all. (But TiVo has their own form of VOD over IP to compensate.)

Hello all
yesterday verizon finished intalling FIOS ( phone , tv, Internet).
I have some questions I hope someone in here can aswer. The installer could not answer regarding dvr settings and HDTV. there was no user guide and tech support was basicly useless ( just reading from script).
I have an Samsung HDTV 1080P 40 in set (95d) and the drv is Moto Qip6416-2
the setting on the dvr ..menue/settings/video format - only gives me 10801, 720, 480i and 480p.
My other provider ( brighthouse cable ) had and addidtional seeting called passthru.
I like that feature as when i watched hd it came across very nice ( some were 10801, 720) and the SDTV came out really nice
Today with the new setup SDTV does not look good ( sorta streched).
I assume beacuse the box is checked for 1080i .. its sort of converting everthing and sdtv does not llok as nice.
does anyone know if the moto qip6416-2 offers the passthru or is there another work around
I really appeaciate any advice.. I have 12 days to decide if i wan to kep this service ..
Thanks
Mike in tamap

try this:


make sure your TV is on. power off the Motorola STB. on the Motorola's front panel press:

Select>Menu. you have to press them in sequence, & quickly. the Motorola display should read 16:9. it may take more than one attempt.

when it takes you'll see a settings menu displayed on the TV. there's a feature called 4:3 Override. set to 480i.

at this setting SD programming will be sent as a 480i native signal. actually there is one issue-can your Samsung accept a 480i signal? if it can, you should see improvement in SD PQ. if not, you may have to use 480p or disable 4:3 Override altogether.

this setting, BTW, does not affect the HD signals-they'll be displayed @1080i or 720p depending on how the Motorola is set, & then scaled to 1080p by your TV. there will be a lag in switching between SD & HD signals.

FYI my setup is a 1080p JVC LCoS & the same Motrola DVR.

hope it works for you.

I am strongly considering FIOS TV and have 3 questions:

1. What are the characteristics of the STB RF output? Can I run a long coax from there directly to another TV that is set to Channel 3? What resolution appears at the second set? I am hoping to watch the same program in the family room and kitchen without an STB in the kitchen.


Thanks.
I think you're asking the same question that is coming up for me. The D* dvr has an rf out connection so that, in my case, I can run a coax from our den to a small 12" tv in the kitchen. This way the kitchen tv will display whatever channel the receiver in the den is tuned to. NO such connection on the Moto box or on my Pio panel. So I'm wondering if there is a way to convert the composite outputs to coax. Some kind of small converter box maybe/hopefully ?

What cables come with the hd set top box and what does it look like.

I think you're asking the same question that is coming up for me. The D* dvr has an rf out connection so that, in my case, I can run a coax from our den to a small 12" tv in the kitchen. This way the kitchen tv will display whatever channel the receiver in the den is tuned to. NO such connection on the Moto box or on my Pio panel. So I'm wondering if there is a way to convert the composite outputs to coax. Some kind of small converter box maybe/hopefully ?

i think Radio Shack still sells such a converter-originally designing to let people with older TV's(i.e. no A/V inputs) connect a DVD player to them.

it actually converts composite video to an RF signal-sounds like just what you need.

What cables come with the hd set top box and what does it look like.

well in my case the installer asked me(unsolicted, BTW) if I had an HDMI cable. when I said no he got one off his truck & gave it to me.

the FiOS boxes are outwardly the same Motorola DCTxxx boxes used by many cablecos(redesignated QIPxxx since the FiOS boxes are IP capable).

I believe there are pictures, specs et.al. at the Verizon website.

i think Radio Shack still sells such a converter-originally designing to let people with older TV's(i.e. no A/V inputs) connect a DVD player to them.

it actually converts composite video to an RF signal-sounds like just what you need.

Yes, that's exactly what I need. Thank you.

well in my case the installer asked me(unsolicted, BTW) if I had an HDMI cable. when I said no he got one off his truck & gave it to me.

.
Just had the install on Wed and the tech gave me not only the hdmi but also a set of composites, components, audio and SVHS cables. They're a little long, 10', but I'm not complaining. What I do find strange is that getting the owner's manual from them is next to impossible. He claimed that there are features in the manual that are not on the Vzn box and it caused too many customer questions.

i think Radio Shack still sells such a converter-originally designing to let people with older TV's(i.e. no A/V inputs) connect a DVD player to them.

it actually converts composite video to an RF signal-sounds like just what you need.

It is called an RF modulator.

Just had the install on Wed and the tech gave me not only the hdmi but also a set of composites, components, audio and SVHS cables. They're a little long, 10', but I'm not complaining. What I do find strange is that getting the owner's manual from them is next to impossible. He claimed that there are features in the manual that are not on the Vzn box and it caused too many customer questions.

IMHO you're not missing all that much. the Motorola boxes are pretty ez to figure out, & in truth my owner's manual is outdated in certain areas. the only owners guide that's really useful is the one for the remote.

but I think you can find owners manuals in .pdf format at the verizon website.

and of course there's always this forum.

I was originally going to post this as a Multiroom DVR problem, but I just discovered that it goes beyond that. On Tuesday I had recorded American Idol and then was watching it delayed. I decided to watch the rest in the bedroom. When I called up the list of DVR recordings, it was not there; in fact not all my recorded shows were listed...nothing since March 9th. I checked this morning...I had other recordings from Tuesday, Wednesday, and last night that this morning didn't show up on the other STBs, only the same list I had on Tuesday night. So I reset all the boxes (online). Now, my DVR no longer has any recordings later than March 9. When setting up my recordings for last night, I deleted last week's Lost, then recorded both hours last night...in fact I watched them both last night, delayed. GONE now. But last weeks episode, which I deleted last night, IS there. Nothing else scheduled for last night is listed but I'm pretty sure they recorded. I had Top Chef from Wednesday...GONE. I had both Law & Orders from Wednesday...GONE. All of this week's Oprah and Rachel Ray...gone! However, all of last week's Rachel Ray programs, which I had watched and deleted, are still there. After I discovered all my shows missing this morning, I did an additional hard reboot of the DVR by unplugging it. Nothing changed. A few weeks ago I had once gotten the issue where nothing was being recorded...got the "processing request" notation, couldn't manually record, the information bar was incorrect, deleted shows came back, etc. A hard reset fixed that. But this...WTF!!! Has anyone else experienced this? :mad:

Has anyone else experienced this?

Yes.

We have the multi-room DVR hooked up to our HDTV in the family room. We have a standard-def STB on the upstairs TV.

About a week ago my wife went upstairs to watch something off the DVR. She discovered that it only showed shows recorded up to Feb 29. Some shows that were listed had already been deleted from the DVR. We waited a few days and the problem was still present, so I called Verizon Tech support. He had me unplug the router, STB, and DVR. After plugging in the router, STB, and DVR again (in that order), the DVR was showing the same listing as the STB (i.e. nothing after Feb 29). If I tried to play a show I knew I had deleted the DVR just presented an error that it couldn't play the show. The tech basically said the shows that had gone missing were lost (no pun intended).

On the bright side, the system appears to be working correctly now. The DVR is recording the stuff it should, and the STB is in sync with what is on the DVR (at least as of Wednesday that was true).

My recommendation would be to call support to report this. The guy I talked to said they know about the problem, but that it is very rare. Maybe it is, or maybe people just aren't reporting it.

We finally had the 3 pack install this week. It took 2 days because the engineering side couldn't get the ONT out of failure mode for 3 hrs the first day. Then, on the 2nd day, the national HD channels couldn't be received, that took another 3 hrs to straighten out. But it is up and running and I am pleased w/the PQ. I have one SD stb, one HD DVR and a digital adapter on the way, under the "freebie" promo. That's a good solution to our kitchen tv. A few observations :

1. The SD stb in the bedroom has brief pixelization when switching channels ( not while watching though). Is this normal, as the HD box doesn't do it?

2. Under the phone "Freedom essentials", which I already had, I'm supposed to have caller ID and I lost it. It's been 3 days now. Anyone else temporarily lose features thay were supposed to have ?

3. When the installer did the router set up he installed Vzn features into my browser (IE6, Win 2k) and now I get explorer.exe errors every other time I click on "my computer". Guess I'll have to uninstall those "features".

4. The sign sheet copy he left me, when all was completed, had the test readings he took at the ONT coax, the router and one of the stb's. Anyone know the reference of the RF numbers? (ie SD stb: Analog chnls- low>10.9, mid>8.9, high>8.2 Digital chnls- low>0.8, mid>1.8, high>3.0) Nothing was written in for the HD DVR numbers.

5. Although not part of the install, I'm very dissapointed that the IMG doesn't show the year of a TV show or if it's a repeat or not. What's up with that (I had that , of course ,with D*)? So how does the DVR know when to record first run only ?

6. Only good things to say about the move from 3/0.768 DSL to 20/5 internet speed. Nice !!

7. Lastly, and I don't see it talked about in this thread, the ONT is a Tellabs, which the installer said he had to use for my area. He had Moto's on the truck, but no choice. Any comments on the ONT brands or are they pretty much the same?

3. Don't ever let Verizon install anything on your computer. All you need is DHCP from the router (unless you have something other than a typical LAN). Uninstall everything.

4. Do you have the levels at each of the TVs? Those numbers are around here somewhere. Just have to search. Also on the DSL reports Verizon FiOS forum: http://www.dslreports.com/forum/vzfiostv

7. You can also find answers about the ONT on DSL Reports. Try a forum search.

3. Don't ever let Verizon install anything on your computer. All you need is DHCP from the router (unless you have something other than a typical LAN). Uninstall everything.

4. Do you have the levels at each of the TVs? Those numbers are around here somewhere. Just have to search. Also on the DSL reports Verizon FiOS forum: http://www.dslreports.com/forum/vzfiostv

7. You can also find answers about the ONT on DSL Reports. Try a forum search.
@GeekGirl
As always, thanks for your responses. Removed all the Vzn software and explorer.exe error is now GONE.

The levels he left me were for only one tv, for some reason, the SD stb, posted above. I know he took readings on the HD DVR (measured it first, before the SD stb) because they were high/failed, at first, and he changed the splitter to a 6 port (rather than use attenuators), to bring them down to acceptable levels. I searched here first and couldn't find anything referencing tv readings but I'll try on DSL reports.

BTW, we didn't notice until after he left, that when he connected the bedroom tv (in an entertainment unit) he turned the tv rather than lifting it, so it left nice big scratch marks on the shelf...Arggggghh ! Wife is so Po'd.:mad:
Not to mention the black boot marks all over the kitchen floor. What's with these guys? Doesn't Vzn train them to respect people's property? ( rhetorical question)

shadowcaster-

glad that it's working for you so far.

i've had none of the problems you've listed. as far as #3 goes the only glitch is that my Vz homepage is slow to load sometimes. however I use Mac OS 10.4 with Firefox which may have something to do with it.

as far as the IMG goes the program info is still inconsistent. sometimes it shows the production yr. of a show, sometimes not. and it does often list a known repeat as a "new" show. so far this hasn't screwed up my series recordings.

sorry to hear about the messy installer. i've concluded that VZ workers & their level of concern vary by region to region. i've never heard of the kind of messy carelessness in an install down here.

for the record tho the VZ subcontrators(the ones who bury the fiber) are another matter! had a story on the local news about a lady who had her fence knocked over by a sloppy work crew while they were burying fiber to another house! this was a subcontractor's crew, not a VZ workers. they also apparently violated Vz policy by not notifying her in advance that utility work was to be done.

Found the signal levels on DSL Reports: http://www.dslreports.com/forum/r17702042-What-are-YOUR-signal-levels

Out of the ONT: + 18 dBmV (I measured that also during the install).
At your TV: -15 dBmV to +15 dBmV, (analog: +0 to +10 dBmV with the "sweet spot" around +2 to +6 dBmV)

BTW, I'd give Verizon a call for a damage claim to your furniture. Like anything else, I'll bet that the longer you wait, the less likely they will be to honor it.

Shadowcaster: Have you installed the RF modulator for the coax from the den to the kitchen?

Shadowcaster: Have you installed the RF modulator for the coax from the den to the kitchen?TV Guy, funny you should ask...I bought one today at Home Depot, a GE @$19.00, and it works like a charm. Coincidentally, when I checked the messages in the IMG, there was one from Vzn offering a FREE digital adapter for the life of the service (1 per household). I called them on Friday, and sure enough, they're sending it UPS and it's a self install...no tech visit required (thank God). Takes 7-10 days so went with the rf modulator until it arrives, which I'll probably now use on another TV in my workshop, as it also displays the HD channels (in sd of course).

Found the signal levels on DSL Reports: http://www.dslreports.com/forum/r17702042-What-are-YOUR-signal-levels

Out of the ONT: + 18 dBmV (I measured that also during the install).
At your TV: -15 dBmV to +15 dBmV, (analog: +0 to +10 dBmV with the "sweet spot" around +2 to +6 dBmV)

BTW, I'd give Verizon a call for a damage claim to your furniture. Like anything else, I'll bet that the longer you wait, the less likely they will be to honor it.

Thanks again, I had done a search on that forum , but I guess I used the wrong keywords. The sheet the installer left w/me had numbers, for analog and digital, that were for low, med and high for the ONT, router and the sd stb. So not just one number as indicated in dsl reports, except under "mer" for the ONT and router. That figure was ~37.0. Nothing in the OOB columns. What is your reference for the 18dbmV at the ONT ? Is that rf or optical and low, med or high? This stuff really makes my brain hurt.

Everything seems to be working OK except for the SD STB pixeliating briefly when changing channels, which may or may not be normal.

My wife really doesn't want to persue the furniture damage as she feels that it would be difficult to prove he caused it. If I had seen it when he was here and insisted he indicate it on the signed form , then that would be a different matter.

@hdinthecity
Thanks for the response. Ironically, the subcontractors that were here in July, did a great and neat job of installing the underground conduit for the cable on our street. I guess, like anything else, it's just luck of the draw. My installer told me he is with Vzn for 15 yrs and been doing Fios installs for 2 years. Maybe he was in the bottom half of his class at Fios school.

So, my HD DVR is acting badly... this is my 2ndary one.

I record a program. It says it's recording, but nothing is going into my DVR. I try to record a new program as a series, it never records. I try to view somehting that is an old series, which recorded fine in the past, but the recordings aren't there.

I'm only 23% full (like I said, I can't record anything).

Any advice on how to fix this (And I'm guessing that i should write down my series recordings and watch all my DVR before I take your advice, no?)...

My husband wants to just get a new HD DVR box, but I'm worried about a shortage, so I wanted to see if there was an alterative to handing it over.

Advice would be greeted with happiness!

So, my HD DVR is acting badly... this is my 2ndary one.

I record a program. It says it's recording, but nothing is going into my DVR. I try to record a new program as a series, it never records. I try to view somehting that is an old series, which recorded fine in the past, but the recordings aren't there.

I'm only 23% full (like I said, I can't record anything).

Any advice on how to fix this (And I'm guessing that i should write down my series recordings and watch all my DVR before I take your advice, no?)...

My husband wants to just get a new HD DVR box, but I'm worried about a shortage, so I wanted to see if there was an alterative to handing it over.

Advice would be greeted with happiness!


Dawn that all sounds like bad software. maybe you could call Vz & have the CO hit the box remotely but IMO that's not likely to work.

I could be wrong but I seem to remember that Vz is giving priority to subs who have bad STBs-the shortage is with new subs, so there could(hopefully) be a replacement box available.

shadowcaster you're quite welcome, & your story just confirms one more reason people's experiences with Vz vary so much by region. the contractor who damaged the lady's fence(& who, I believe, also had a run-in with the Va. State Police & ICE over hiring illegal aliens) are NOT the same co. that installed fiber in my neighborhood-even tho my city is just the other side of the James river from where the fence incident occured. Vz seems to use local subcontracors-local to whatever city or county they're working.

after two very PR-unfriendly incidents I predict Vz may soon be "rethinking" their business relationship with that contractor.

Shadowcaster: Thanks. What is displayed on the kitchen TV when the den TV is showing an HDTV picture? Is your kitchen TV SD or HD?

Shadowcaster: Thanks. What is displayed on the kitchen TV when the den TV is showing an HDTV picture? Is your kitchen TV SD or HD?
The kitchen tv is just an old Sharp sd 12" crt / rf input only. It displays the 4:3 HD broadcasts full screen and the 16:9 broadcasts as letterbox. I assumed this would be the case because when I first got my BD player I hooked it up to this tv just to be sure it worked, and it displayed a Blu -Ray disc the same way.

My installer told me he is with Vzn for 15 yrs and been doing Fios installs for 2 years. Maybe he was in the bottom half of his class at Fios school.

Just like somewhere is the worlds worst Doctor...

Removed all the Vzn software and explorer.exe error is now GONE.

One of the things that was deleted was the "Verizon Service Summary" which I didn't print out. I seem to recall that some of the info included the router sn and wep address, the ONT status light descriptions, etc. Could some one please fill in the blanks for me ? I assume that the installer's Techwizrd is the only way to recreate the file, named "info.html".

Was the router info the only info in the summary unique to my system ?

I currently have Comcast Triple Play, but have FiOS Triple Play scheduled to be installed this Friday (3/21). If I keep Verizon, who should I contact so that I can have my [comcast] number ported to Verizon? I hear that Comcast is dragging their feet on releasing numbers, and I didn't want to delay the install any further.

Yes.

We have the multi-room DVR hooked up to our HDTV in the family room. We have a standard-def STB on the upstairs TV.

About a week ago my wife went upstairs to watch something off the DVR. She discovered that it only showed shows recorded up to Feb 29. Some shows that were listed had already been deleted from the DVR. We waited a few days and the problem was still present, so I called Verizon Tech support. He had me unplug the router, STB, and DVR. After plugging in the router, STB, and DVR again (in that order), the DVR was showing the same listing as the STB (i.e. nothing after Feb 29). If I tried to play a show I knew I had deleted the DVR just presented an error that it couldn't play the show. The tech basically said the shows that had gone missing were lost (no pun intended).

On the bright side, the system appears to be working correctly now. The DVR is recording the stuff it should, and the STB is in sync with what is on the DVR (at least as of Wednesday that was true).

My recommendation would be to call support to report this. The guy I talked to said they know about the problem, but that it is very rare. Maybe it is, or maybe people just aren't reporting it.

I thought I'd read about all the bugs/issues with FIOS, and was feeling pretty lucky that I'd not experienced them (prematurely as it turns out)! The reboots seem to have fixed the problem. I'm glad to hear it's a rare issue but if I run across it again I'll make sure to watch or save what I have recorded on the DVR before I reboot. Thanks for your response!

Ok,

I should have listened to your guys... but I thought... Everything seems to be set up correctly..

Backstory - I negotiated a really competitive rate with someone in the retention office as part of coming on board with verizon.

Well.... got the bill yesterday and there are all kinds of extra charges and misc garbage that does not belong on it.

1. 3 cable cards instead of 2
2. Service Call Charges
3. Telephone Number Connection Charge
4. Outlet Install Charge - No outlet was installed
5. Other misc garbage

So much for confidence in the "product specialist" I worked with to get the account online.

Brian

Ok,

I should have listened to your guys... but I thought... Everything seems to be set up correctly..

Backstory - I negotiated a really competitive rate with someone in the retention office as part of coming on board with verizon.

Well.... got the bill yesterday and there are all kinds of extra charges and misc garbage that does not belong on it.

1. 3 cable cards instead of 2
2. Service Call Charges
3. Telephone Number Connection Charge
4. Outlet Install Charge - No outlet was installed
5. Other misc garbage

So much for confidence in the "product specialist" I worked with to get the account online.

Brian

I had the same billing issues PLUS a Moto HD DVR that I had returned.
Verizon removed these (I think) and credited me the error.

John

Thanks again, I had done a search on that forum , but I guess I used the wrong keywords. The sheet the installer left w/me had numbers, for analog and digital, that were for low, med and high for the ONT, router and the sd stb. So not just one number as indicated in dsl reports, except under "mer" for the ONT and router. That figure was ~37.0. Nothing in the OOB columns. What is your reference for the 18dbmV at the ONT ? Is that rf or optical and low, med or high? This stuff really makes my brain hurt.You think your brain hurts? I know "MER", but it's off the deep end and not discussed much in the forums. Except by the RF gals/guys. Like me.:p OK, for those who want to know, download the PowerPoint slides from Sunrise Telecom (the ones who make the meter that Verizon uses) http://www.sunrisetelecom.com/products/training/mersem.shtml. 37 dB is great.

The 18 dBmV is what the tech measured at the RF output of the ONT at my house. That number was confirmed in the Verizon Philly forum and on DSL reports. Basically, it's about 10 dB "hotter" than what the cable TV company provides. That gives Verizon a lot more signal to work with which allows them to add all those splitters or make longer runs.

The 18 dBmV is what the tech measured at the RF output of the ONT at my house. That number was confirmed in the Verizon Philly forum and on DSL reports. Basically, it's about 10 dB "hotter" than what the cable TV company provides. That gives Verizon a lot more signal to work with which allows them to add all those splitters or make longer runs.
Intersting stuff GeekGirl!
That 18dBmV is a single reading at the ONT, where I have 3 readings, again, low, med and high..all analog rf . At the ont, they're 21.4, 19.9 and 20.1. So, are we talking an average here? If, so , my reading is very close to yours.

The Actiontec WI424 router's "internet" light is steadily flashing green all the time.
According to the manual it should be steady green. It's flashing even when the pc is off. Internet access is normal and I don't see anything in the router's GUI that's abnormal. Big green check mark, network id's, etc are all OK. Verizon doesn't have a clue and Actiontec won't answer questions re an ISP provided router. Google search negative. Anyone know what the flashing light means ?

before the new gui was forced upon us I used to be able to get to the service menu by turning of motorola hd dvr box off then pressing menu
well I cannot access it that way any more. The reason i need to is to change the 480 i on sd to 480p so when i switch channels fro sd to hd the screen wont go blank for a few second as the stb switches processes.
help anyone

before the new gui was forced upon us I used to be able to get to the service menu by turning of motorola hd dvr box off then pressing menu
well I cannot access it that way any more. The reason i need to is to change the 480 i on sd to 480p so when i switch channels fro sd to hd the screen wont go blank for a few second as the stb switches processes.
help anyone

now you need to press Select>Menu in rapid sucession. look for the Moto display to read 16:9. it may not take the 1st time.

BTW to eliminate the SD>HD ch lag you have to disable 4:3 Override completely.

depending on your display the tradeoff is poorer SD PQ.

now you need to press Select>Menu in rapid sucession. look for the Moto display to read 16:9. it may not take the 1st time.

BTW to eliminate the SD>HD ch lag you have to disable 4:3 Override completely.

depending on your display the tradeoff is poorer SD PQ.
Don't you think though, that a true 4:3 pic is going to have better pq than a stretched sd ?

Don't you think though, that a true 4:3 pic is going to have better pq than a stretched sd ?

yes it will-that's why I have 4:3 Override enabled & set to 480i.

what that does is bypass any scaling the Motorola box does on SD programming.

that's also why you have lag switching from SD to HD & vice versa-the box is doing a major shift in output res.

BTW I use my TV to set aspect ratio.

OK, I have overide set to "off" and seem to get the same results. But when I set it to 480i, sd is stretched. Panel is a Pioneer 50" Elite and ar is set to full, not wide, zoom or cinema.

I'm a brand new member, so I apologize in advance if this has been covered, and I've tried searching for answers to this, but haven't found much in the way of info.

I'm getting tired of the limited storage space on the 2708 - Anybody out there have any luck changing the hard drive in this model? Does the USB port allow for an external drive to be used?

If you replace the internal drive, does it need to be cloned?

Any useful experience greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Jon

I'm a brand new member, so I apologize in advance if this has been covered, and I've tried searching for answers to this, but haven't found much in the way of info.

I'm getting tired of the limited storage space on the 2708 - Anybody out there have any luck changing the hard drive in this model? Does the USB port allow for an external drive to be used?

If you replace the internal drive, does it need to be cloned?

Any useful experience greatly appreciated.

Thanks,

Jon

Well, I believe this holds true for all Verizon DVR's (I don't have the SD DVR), the storage you have is what you get. AFAIK, there is no plan to use the USB port for expansion. There have been rumblings of a new HD DVR (maybe an SD as well) with larger disk capacities, and maybe with the eSATA port enabled for external hard drive expansion.

Attempts to replace the hard drive run into partitioning issues that are in firmware, where the cloned drive is re-partitioned into the expected drive size, so unless this is changed, re-cloning and replacing the drive is a no go.

The only true avenue right now that people have used (not me, I'm fine with the Verizon DVR), is to go Tivo. Either of the TivoHD (proprietary Tivo expansion HD) or the Tivo3 (expand via eSATA with any commercial drive) are good options. I imagine you can also go to custom Tivo shops and buy one with the expansion already done.

Hope that helps.

I do not have any box right now. It is in the back of the unit.

How do you like TIVO with FIOS?
Do you also have a HD STB?
How long did it take to get it to work? I understand there are some real issues? Is the program guide accurate and up to date?

What features do you loose?

I bought a Series 3 just to determine if the STB was causing my video stutter... it wasn't, but I liked the Tivo so much better that I decided to keep it & return the Moto HD DVR STB.

It only took 20-30 min or so to get the CCs to work and my tech had only done this once before so I think it may have more to do with the person they call than with the tech. The Tivos come with an instruction sheet for the installer & really not much for them to do but jot down some numbers & call them in.

I returned the Series 3 (too much $$$) and picked up a woot Tivo HD instead.
I was surprised that all I had to do was pop the cards out & install them into the new tivo to get them to work. I didn't have to call Verizon, just Tivo to move their service to the new box. Very easy.

The guide is up to date and automatically notifies me whenever there is a lineup change. (although it didn't pick up (or report)the recent Skinomax free view over the weekend)

The verdict:
Pros -
(minor ones are too numerous to list... Tivo is so much more than I expected)
Tivo Suggestions are really getting accurate to my tastes & this means 0 unused/wasted drive space.
Wish list
I easily* added 750 Gb of extra space with an external eSATA drive (*Series 3 allows pretty much any eSATA drive to plug n play; while my Tivo HD did require me to remove the internal drive & "Marry" it to the new one. Tivo does sell their own PNP device if that sounds like too much for you.)
No Annoying Clock/Night-Light in the bedroom any more.

Cons -
Loss of On Demand for Subscriptions. (I could care less about PPV, but you lose that ability as well. You do get Amazon Unboxed which is pretty much the same thing, however.
The Moto's commercial skip, (30 sec fwd - 10 back) was a little more effecient {IMHO} than Tivo's 3 speed FF offering.
No way to easily Stop & Delete the current program. There is no "Stop button, so you end up Exiting back to the main menu & you have to go back in and select the program to get a delete option. (maybe I'm doing it wrong?)
...which is my final con... There is a learning curve to some of this.
one more... $$$ it isn't free. I signed up for the 3 yr plan to minimize the cost issue.

The Moto's commercial skip, (30 sec fwd - 10 back) was a little more effecient {IMHO} than Tivo's 3 speed FF offering.

You can program the Tivo HD for a 30 sec skip :

While playing a recording, on the remote, press : Select-Play-Select-3-0-Select

....No way to easily Stop & Delete the current program. There is no "Stop button, so you end up Exiting back to the main menu & you have to go back in and select the program to get a delete option. (maybe I'm doing it wrong?)
Press the left arrow < on the big round button at the top.. that will take you to the previous menu where you can arrow down to Delete.

So, try unplugging the TV, waiting 30 seconds or so, and replugging it.

It's good... not perfect, but good.

Nope. Don't need one. I do have a regular SD Fios STB on another set, which suffers greatly by comparison.

20 minutes or so... not counting the several days I had to wait for a new appointment when the first installer didn't bring the cards.

The main issue is how obtuse and unhelpful Verizon is about CableCards. I understand this is the way with most cable companies, though. Other than that... the TiVo is perhaps more sensitive to signal problems than the Verizon-provided receivers; many people use attenuators to compensate.

More than Verizon's. But I'm not completely happy with either of them.

VOD. That's all. (But TiVo has their own form of VOD over IP to compensate.)
Well, I finally got it fixed. Had to go through 6 techs on the phone, who tried to fix it to find 1 person that actually new what they were doing. I have been with FIOS for 1 1/2 years, and their support is getting worse and worse. I feel like I am back with Cablevision.

In regards to the TVGOS, I still do not have any info listed for the 800 range of channels which are the HiDef ones. The tech that was able to fix my card gave me the "official" and "unofficial" responses

Official - They do not support accuracy with TVGOS because FIOS is an all digital network, and TBGOS trasnmits in analog, so therefore, they cannot control it. Now you would think that when they picked TVGOS as their new menu in the boxes, that they would make sure these things would work. What bothers me even more is that my TV (new PIO Elite 1150) includes TVGOS on the TV itself, so one would think that I woiuld have all the ingredients for success.

unofficial - I was told that if I buy an antennna, I could hook it up to the Ant B and that would provide the signal for the TVGOS and it would update on my TV.

Any comments?

Who has actually been able to get the TVGOS with the CC to be accurate on their sets?

You can program the Tivo HD for a 30 sec skip :

While playing a recording, on the remote, press : Select-Play-Select-3-0-Select


Thanks, I tried this but was unsuccessful.
I have the HD, not the series 3. Does that matter?
Do I have to hold more than one button down at a time or something?

UPDATE: Well, I never heard the 3 sounds, but after several attempts I am now able to use the 30 sec skip... much more useful than skipping to the end of a recording. Why would anyone ever wish to do that??? ...anyway, thanks shadowcaster!

Press the left arrow < on the big round button at the top.. that will take you to the previous menu where you can arrow down to Delete.

That worked :)
Thanks!

(I noticed the new IMG seems to not like the word "delete" and opted for a round about way of finally getting to "remove" instead. nonsense, now the TiVO wins that contest too.)

Firewire connected D-VHS to the QIP 6200 works well. Any questions about this I'll be happy to answer.

On the hd stb how do you strech the standard def programming?

Play with the TV settings, should be a zoom mode.

I've fooled with they won't do it. Is their any button on the fios remote to change picture size to strech standard def but not strech high def ?

I've fooled with they won't do it. Is their any button on the fios remote to change picture size to strech standard def but not strech high def ?
What does your STB/DVR output for the SD channels? 480i, 480p, or upconverted to 720p or 1080i? I suspect your STB is upconverting the SD channels and the TV can't resize HD signals. Think this works for all STB and DVRs: turn the STB off, press Select, then press Menu on the remote or front panel to access the setup menu. YPbPr is the HD channels (720p or 1080i) and 4:3 Override are the SD channels (I suggest 480i or 480p if you want closed captions).

Turning the box off and pressing select then menu didn't bring up anything. And it doesn't say what the boxed is outputting on the standard def compared to the high def. The box is just set at 1080i the box id is qip 6200-2 which was installed last saturday with component which I swiched today with and hdmi cable.

Nevermind while I was typing the box did what I wanted it to do. That was a miracle since I fooled around with it for hours today. Thanks

OK here's a new one for me.

So I reboot by unplugging about every week or so or when I get the "can't record thing". Usually a reboot and everything is fine.

Not this time.

After the reboot its seem like the list of recorded shows is a snap shot from about a month ago. My recent recording are missing and the ones I deleted are there. But its just the list, becuase if I try to play one of the old show it gives me this "The show is no currently available please try later". I have tried rebooting a couple times not luck.

I am really just bummed be cause I just recorded Inside Man in HiDef and my last LOST ... are lost, gone nada.

Anyone have this happen to them? Any ideas what to do?

I'm thinking about getting the Fios triple play, and I have a question. Will Verizon techs let you self install?

I currently have DTV, and I have wired the house myself. In addition, I have a Wireless G router, and I don't want Verizon to mess with my computers.

What are my options (or what should I tell the tech) to minimize how much they have to change my existing setup?

thanks,

paul

I'm thinking about getting the Fios triple play, and I have a question. Will Verizon techs let you self install?

I currently have DTV, and I have wired the house myself. In addition, I have a Wireless G router, and I don't want Verizon to mess with my computers.

What are my options (or what should I tell the tech) to minimize how much they have to change my existing setup?

thanks,

paul

If this is an initial FIOS install, it is way beyond "self-install". That being said, the following applies

1) Verizon will be more than happy to use your existing internal cable as long as it is in good shape and is RG6 not RG59.
2) Verizon will change the mode of your Wireless G modem to work with their system unless you get a Verizon DVR. In this case they will run a CAT 5 to your modem
3) If you get a Verizon DVR, they will need to replace your Wireless G modem with thier own. Their's works just fine. You will need a coax to the modem.
4) If you had D* DVRs, then you will end up with excess wiring. You should re-arrange your wiring to a single splitter feeding all TV locations and possibly your modem location and remove any Multi Switches before Verizon arrives.

1) Verizon will be more than happy to use your existing internal cable as long as it is in good shape and is RG6 not RG59.

RG59 is perfectly acceptable as long as it is in good condition. The tech should test the signal strength at each STB location to verify.

2) Verizon will change the mode of your Wireless G modem to work with their system unless you get a Verizon DVR. In this case they will run a CAT 5 to your modem

An actiontec router should be installed by the technician and most likely the data will be provided over coax. The only case where the data has to be run by ethernet is if there are more than two phone numbers on the order and even then, coax would still need to be run to the router to establish the MoCA connection.

3) If you get a Verizon DVR, they will need to replace your Wireless G modem with thier own. Their's works just fine. You will need a coax to the modem.

The actiontec router is not just for the DVR. It is for any of the QIP based STB's. If you have STB's that provide the program guide or video on demand the actiontec router is needed, as the IMG and VOD is transmitted to the STB's using the MoCA connection.

4) If you had D* DVRs, then you will end up with excess wiring. You should re-arrange your wiring to a single splitter feeding all TV locations and possibly your modem location and remove any Multi Switches before Verizon arrives.

Do yourself (and the technician) a favor and leave all the coax wiring and STB's in place. It's easier for the tech to take everything apart so that he/she knows what to use. The tech will make any necessary changes to your coax setup.

As far as your computer goes, just ask the tech to run his "Techwizard" on his laptop. Most techs will do this if you ask.

Does anybody know if you can have FiOS internet installed without a computer? Basically, I want to be able to have all my computers connected wirelessly, and just have the router in the basement.

thanks,

paul

Does anybody know if you can have FiOS internet installed without a computer? Basically, I want to be able to have all my computers connected wirelessly, and just have the router in the basement.

thanks,

paul

Absolutely, I do it all the time.

Don't let Verizon install any software on your computer. Ever. The ActionTec will give all the PCs on the LAN their own addresses via DHCP. Nothing for you to do, as the techs will connect to the router with their own laptops and run an install script.

What you do want is to be sure that you can access the router's web browser interface from all your PCs. Make sure you get the admin password from the techs when they're done.

I hope this is the right place for Verizon's CableCARD... Have any of you experienced an issue with FiOS channels(Premier) not appearing? I just got the card installed today and other than my locals+locals HD, nothing shows up(like Premier channels(ESPN...)+HD). :( And just recently, the card will only let me watch one channel, while the card is "acquiring information..." Any one have any ideas on what the issue maybe? And I have gotten a couple 161-xx errors as well.

I hope this is the right place for Verizon's CableCARD... Have any of you experienced an issue with FiOS channels(Premier) not appearing? I just got the card installed today and other than my locals+locals HD, nothing shows up(like Premier channels(ESPN...)+HD). :( And just recently, the card will only let me watch one channel, while the card is "acquiring information..." Any one have any ideas on what the issue maybe? And I have gotten a couple 161-xx errors as well.

Hi,

Hopefully someone with more technical background will jump in here, but I had something similar happen to me when my service was initially setup. Apparently the setup is a two-step process where the technician inputs cable card and customer account information via his/her laptop. If the tech doesn't wait a sufficient duration between the first and second input steps the information will not take.

Bottom line it probably requires another visit from the technician to go through the setup process again.

Larry

Darn, I don't like to schedule anything with Verizon cause it takes so damn long... I actually called tech support, and basically I found out that either the card needs to be authorized again or it needs another "hit." But my question still remains from my above post(#2873).

Darn, I don't like to schedule anything with Verizon cause it takes so damn long... I actually called tech support, and basically I found out that either the card needs to be authorized again or it needs another "hit." But my question still remains from my above post(#2873).

I found that you can call Tech Support and have them completely re-authorize the card without a tech visit. Make sure your OOB signal is good before you do it. That was the root of all my problems. Removing the 7db pad that F* installed before the splitter did the trick to fix my intermittant OOB signal.

I found that you can call Tech Support and have them completely re-authorize the card without a tech visit. Make sure your OOB signal is good before you do it. That was the root of all my problems. Removing the 7db pad that F* installed before the splitter did the trick to fix my intermittant OOB signal.

Thanks for all your help, another call to Verizon and it began to work. Now I can watch some glorious HD. Isn't that the point of this topic? :)

A problem seems to have cropped up recently. On my QIP6200 connected to a projector by HDMI (via an Onkyo 705) I can watch HD channels but not SD channels; I am getting sound, but no picture in the SD channels.

I tried to get to the 4:3 override settings, but I simply can't sem to be able to get the screen by pressing Setup then Menu in succession multiple times.

Since I don't watch TV on this box very often, it is possible that this problem is as old as the last firmware update.

I would be grateful for any suggestions.

Hello folks, new forum member here. I apologize if this has been addressed somewhere else, but nothing popped up in my search of this thread:

I live in Boston and am curious if there is any updated information about when and if Verizon Fios will be available here? To say that my experience with Comcast has been poor would be an understatement.

Thank you in advance for any help or info.

Hello folks, new forum member here. I apologize if this has been addressed somewhere else, but nothing popped up in my search of this thread:

I live in Boston and am curious if there is any updated information about when and if Verizon Fios will be available here? To say that my experience with Comcast has been poor would be an understatement.

Thank you in advance for any help or info.

Hi, I live in the western 'burbs. It seems to be a political thing in Mass. (what isn't). I got the internet / phone first, then had to harass my town administrator (along with others in my town) to move the certification of FIOS for TV along. The main impediment was Comcast, whose represenative came to one of the town meetings to argue against FIOS being introduced. Their take was that Comcast provided local programming that would go away if they didn't have exclusivity. We eventually had it approved, but it took several town meetings and pressure.

Boston, with its politics is probably a tougher nut to crack. In Mass, each community has control over this, so we have a harder row to hoe. Good luck, maybe if you call city hall, you can get a better idea from them where it stands, I know I did.

Thanks for the response. I had heard a rumor that FIOS was being introduced into Boston within the last few weeks somewhere here on this forum,but haven't seen any confirmation of that yet. Anyone else got any info?

Thank you again for the response.

I have a Fios DVR, but it is such garbage that I'm thinking of connecting my old first generation Tivo to a regular STB.

Does the Tivo have the proper codes to control the regular STBs via the IR blaster?

Second question - I'm getting the free QAM converter boxes. Can the Tivo control those as well?

(Please don't suggest a new Tivo. I am well aware of how great that would be, but I have an old, expanded Tivo with lifetime service, and I don't want it to go to waste. I might get an HD Tivo to replace the other DVR in the near future.)

Thanks

Does that Tivo even have video in recording capability? How would you get the guide?

If your talking about the CECB gov't coupon supported boxes none of those are known to have a QAM tuner - ATSC tuner only. Many of those boxes have oddball IR codes.

Does that Tivo even have video in recording capability? How would you get the guide?

If your talking about the CECB gov't coupon supported boxes none of those are known to have a QAM tuner - ATSC tuner only. Many of those boxes have oddball IR codes.

The Tivo has an Analog RF input. It can control a cable box via infrared. It has an excellent guide that it gets through a dial-up connection - I'm using it on the analog channels now, but those are going away. When used with a converter box, the Tivo would always go to Channel 3, and the box would do the tuning. (It might also accept composite inputs - I have to check the book.) My question was whether the Tivo had the proper codes for the Verizon boxes, both the standard set top box, and the free QAM converter.

The free converter box I'm referring to is not the government subsidized ATSC box, but the Verizon supplied QAM box, which is being given out because they are dropping the analog channels in a few weeks.

Scott

The free converter box I'm referring to is not the government subsidized ATSC box, but the Verizon supplied QAM box, which is being given out because they are dropping the analog channels in a few weeks.

Scott
Scott, they're actually calling that a "Digital Adapter".

BTW, I received one yesterday that came w/a different remote than the standard and hd STB's that I had installed last month. (I believe those 2 are the newest versions) Anyone else get a different remote?

Scott, they're actually calling that a "Digital Adapter".

BTYW, I received one yesterday that came w/a different remote than the standard and hd STB's that I had installed last month. (I believe those 2 are the newest versions) Anyone else get a different remote?

From my experience, the Digital Adapter (Motorola DCT-700) uses the same IR remote codes as the DVR (QIP6416). I verified this because I am using the same remote for both (actually a Comcast DVR remote).

I am pretty sure (but I can't verify it) that the remote codes are the same for all the Motorola boxes.

Which remote came with your adapters ? (the one that came w/the adapter is a Motorola model # drc 800 4 in 1 universal remote control, while the one that came w/the other stb's just says Fios Remote Control")

The Tivo has an Analog RF input. It can control a cable box via infrared. It has an excellent guide that it gets through a dial-up connection - I'm using it on the analog channels now, but those are going away. When used with a converter box, the Tivo would always go to Channel 3, and the box would do the tuning. (It might also accept composite inputs - I have to check the book.) My question was whether the Tivo had the proper codes for the Verizon boxes, both the standard set top box, and the free QAM converter.

The free converter box I'm referring to is not the government subsidized ATSC box, but the Verizon supplied QAM box, which is being given out because they are dropping the analog channels in a few weeks.

Scott

I guess the simple answer is yes, as it is a Motorola box, but check all codes for Motorola as well as GI/Jensen cause sometimes the IR receivers are used from the old boxes.

Without a composite input you'll be out of luck as I don't believe any of the FIOS boxes have a modulated RF out - it's just a pass through.

Which remote came with your adapters ? (the one that came w/the adapter is a Motorola model # drc 800 4 in 1 universal remote control, while the one that came w/the other stb's just says Fios Remote Control")

It sounds like they might be exhausting the supply of the original remotes. Back in the fall of 2006 we had to pull all of the MOTO remotes of our trucks in favor of the temporary Scientific Altlanta remotes (MOTO couldn't keep up)., so there probably is a "stash" of them somewhere.

BTW, was it drop shipped to you or "delivered" by a technician?

I am pretty sure (but I can't verify it) that the remote codes are the same for all the Motorola boxes.

You are correct Sir!

Without a composite input you'll be out of luck as I don't believe any of the FIOS boxes have a modulated RF out - it's just a pass through.

The following verizon boxes have RF out:
The DCT700 (Digital Adapter)
QIP2500 (Standard STB)
QIP6200 (HD STB)....(Why, I'm not sure:confused:)

The following Verizon STB's DO NOT have RF out:
QIP6416 (HD DVR)
QIP2708 (Standard DVR)....(Why, I'm not sure:confused:)

It seems like with the 700 box connected to the Tivo things should work. Just need to figure out a ch changing strategy.

Biker,

I am a little lost here... What are you trying to accomplish? Record from non hd box with old tivo?

Just curiousdwe

It seems like with the 700 box connected to the Tivo things should work. Just need to figure out a ch changing strategy.

I received my three DCT700 Digital Adapters yesterday. My old Series 1 Tivo is now connected to one of these via its composite output, although it has RF as well. I chose Motorola Remote code 93 at medium speed (the speed determines how fast the digits are sent to the box).

To change the channel, you use the Tivo remote, which causes the Tivo to send the codes to the DCT700. I taped the IR emitter to the box with black tape, to keep the stray signals from messing up my Verizon DVR.

It sounds like they might be exhausting the supply of the original remotes. Back in the fall of 2006 we had to pull all of the MOTO remotes of our trucks in favor of the temporary Scientific Altlanta remotes (MOTO couldn't keep up)., so there probably is a "stash" of them somewhere.

BTW, was it drop shipped to you or "delivered" by a technician?
One was shipped UPS by VZn (that came w/the Moto remote) and the other was hand delivered (though not installed) by a tech and he just pulled a Fios remote from the truck. The first one I was able to activate online, via the 6 digit code. The second one I'm waiting for an answer on how they are handling it.

I have called FIOS and they said "no", but has anyone been able to BYO cable cards? SA PKM800 are had for as little as $30 on ebay.

I have called FIOS and they said "no", but has anyone been able to BYO cable cards? SA PKM800 are had for as little as $30 on ebay.
The short answer is that Vzn will not activate anything that is NOT associated with one of their orders. See my post above re a Digital Adapter that was hand delivered by a Vzn tech. Until a P.O. is generated for it thay will not activate. (btw, still hasn't happened)

A question to the Fios subscribers who have the digital adapter installed. I had fios tv installed two weeks ago. For my kitchen tv, the installer put in a digital adapter. I find that this adapter does not change channels well. It sometimes takes 3 pushes to change one digit!! Annoying to say the least!Has anyone noticed this with their box? I've tried their remote and a couple of universal remotes as well with the same result. I also have moved the adapter to another tv with the same result. Do I have a dud box or what? Does VZ have to come out to install a new one? Thanks!

Change Remote Battery?

A question to the Fios subscribers who have the digital adapter installed. I had fios tv installed two weeks ago. For my kitchen tv, the installer put in a digital adapter. I find that this adapter does not change channels well. It sometimes takes 3 pushes to change one digit!! Annoying to say the least!Has anyone noticed this with their box? I've tried their remote and a couple of universal remotes as well with the same result. I also have moved the adapter to another tv with the same result. Do I have a dud box or what? Does VZ have to come out to install a new one? Thanks!

Yes and as I stated, I have used different remotes. two VZ and two universal. The battery is not the problem.

Sounds like a bad DA, mine changes chnls no problem. Just call them and they will send a replacement in a box that has an RA/shipping label for returning the bad one.

BTW, didn't the installer try this box for proper operation before he left ?

Edit : This may seem obvious, but you did remove the plastic film from the front of the adapter didn't you ?

No film on the front. I'll call VZ in the AM. Thnx all!

A question to the Fios subscribers who have the digital adapter installed. I had fios tv installed two weeks ago. For my kitchen tv, the installer put in a digital adapter. I find that this adapter does not change channels well. It sometimes takes 3 pushes to change one digit!! Annoying to say the least!Has anyone noticed this with their box? I've tried their remote and a couple of universal remotes as well with the same result. I also have moved the adapter to another tv with the same result. Do I have a dud box or what? Does VZ have to come out to install a new one? Thanks!

Contact the Fiber Solution Center [(888) 553-1555] and ask them to reinitialize and activate the digital adapter. The IMG "lite" software may have been corrupted during the download. If that doesn't work, ask them to either send a replacement DA or better yet, ask them to send out a technician. (I know I love getting nice easy jobs like that :D)

Hey Jim, why is it that the standard def STB fragments the picture momentarily when changing channels (everyone I know that has one does) but the Digital Adapter doesn't ?

Hey Jim, why is it that the standard def STB fragments the picture momentarily when changing channels (everyone I know that has one does) but the Digital Adapter doesn't ?

As it's been explained to me, it's just the way digital tuner within the STB handles "tuning" in a channel. And like you said, it's not just specific to just you (or maybe it is.......:rolleyes:) because I see it every day. As far as the DA is concerned, I haven't noticed if it momentarily pixelates, but I'll keep an eye out for it, since we're installing them more and more now.

From what I've heard, C*'s boxes usually "black out" the picture while tuning. I haven't been a C*customer for 9 years, so I have no personal knowledge.

Biker,

I am a little lost here... What are you trying to accomplish? Record from non hd box with old tivo?

Just curiousdwe

Nothing, was answering to a previous poster.:cool:

Well, I believe this holds true for all Verizon DVR's (I don't have the SD DVR), the storage you have is what you get. AFAIK, there is no plan to use the USB port for expansion. There have been rumblings of a new HD DVR (maybe an SD as well) with larger disk capacities, and maybe with the eSATA port enabled for external hard drive expansion.

Attempts to replace the hard drive run into partitioning issues that are in firmware, where the cloned drive is re-partitioned into the expected drive size, so unless this is changed, re-cloning and replacing the drive is a no go.

The only true avenue right now that people have used (not me, I'm fine with the Verizon DVR), is to go Tivo. Either of the TivoHD (proprietary Tivo expansion HD) or the Tivo3 (expand via eSATA with any commercial drive) are good options. I imagine you can also go to custom Tivo shops and buy one with the expansion already done.

Hope that helps.

I was wondering about this as well. I accessed the diagnostic menu of my QIP2708 (thanks GeekGirl!) and saw that the USB port was "Enabled" but not "Active". I was going to try to hook up my laptop to see if attaching the QIP to a USB Host Controller would make it "Active", but decided to search here first.

I just got FIOS at the end of March, so this is a recent version of the 2708. Maybe they "turned on" the USB port? If that's the case then maybe the onboard disk could be cloned for backup. Does anyone know if the disk or the recorded files are readable if the disk is hooked up to a WinXP machine?

As it's been explained to me, it's just the way digital tuner within the STB handles "tuning" in a channel. And like you said, it's not just specific to just you (or maybe it is.......:rolleyes:) because I see it every day. As far as the DA is concerned, I haven't noticed if it momentarily pixelates, but I'll keep an eye out for it, since we're installing them more and more now.

From what I've heard, C*'s boxes usually "black out" the picture while tuning. I haven't been a C*customer for 9 years, so I have no personal knowledge.
I rechecked the DA, and your assumption re C* was correct. Like there's, the DA does block out the picture a little longer than the SD STB, so if it's pixelating, you don't see it.

I believe you'd be better off having a box with firewire which is enabled and active.

QIP2708 does not have a Firewire port, unfortunately. I have to deal with what there is.

Why not go with an HD DVR? Didn't you know you can still view HD content albeit in SD?

Was going to make the HD DVR jump when I get my 9G Pioneer later this year. Every dollar saved is going to the Pio fund! :)

cool, I use a HD STB and the IEEE 1394 port to record TV programs just fine. I just had to find the right code for the old RS VCR Programmer, which I did and now it runs flawless as a timer controlled DVR system.

I just got a call from Verizon regarding my complain about the copy protection flag on OTA channels. She wanted to know if it was resolved. I told her it wasn't. She would transfer the complaint to their techs.

Does anyone know in what form are the recordings on the SD STB HD?

probably mpeg 2 streams or whatever forwat they are broadcast in.

Overnight, I got the version 5.76 update.

What does that include?
Thanks,

The build 05.76 appears to have a few small bug fixes. Reportedly speeds up stepping through VOD menus and takes down the guide pop-ups more quickly when a new program comes on. I have not seen a confirmation whether it fixes the reboot back to full operation problem on a power outage problem. I'll have to test this myself. This is the same release 01.04, but only a new build which suggests no significant code changes or new features, but only minor code & internal parameter setting tweaks.

Spoke to someone at Verizon today. Basically repeated what i expected him to. 5C was part of the deal for them to secure content from providers. Even on the broadcast stations.... o well. I already got a TiVoHD so i am not overly concerned anymore.

FYI - I just ordered my free digital adapters, expected in 5 - 7 days. I didn't see any tech info about them in this thread. Did a google search and found that Comcast :rolleyes: has the DCT700 Installation Manual online: http://www.comcast.com/medialibrary/1/1/Customers/DemosAndManuals/Manuals/dct700man.pdf

Also posted at DSL Reports, DCT700 thread: http://www.dslreports.com/forum/r20370395-DCT700-data

Good detailed info about the diagnostics menu and RF specs.

I just jumped over from the plasma display forum because I was considering switching from Comcast cable to Verizon Fios for Internet, TV and phone.

I write WAS because my initial customer service experience with Verizon Fios was so horrific that (and I can't believe I'm writing this) Comcast appears wonderfully customer-oriented and I've decided that it's better to stay with "the devil I know than switch to the devil I don't know".

I telephoned Verizon to confirm Fios was offered in my neighborhood (suburbs of Philadelphia). I called because each time I went online to check, it seemed to generate telemarketing phone calls and snail mail solicitations.

After one hour of waiting on the phone (I was multitasking while waiting), a Fios sales rep came on. I said I was so frustrated by waiting for 1 hour to get through on the phone when I wanted to BUY something, I was discouraged that service would even be worse when I wanted to reach customer service or tech support AFTER I had signed a contract and had Fios installed. Therefore, I had changed my mind about ordering Fios.

The sales rep called back after discussing my bad experience with her supervisor. I was offered many incentives, both financial and equipment/service packages and, frankly, I was impressed enough to now have some goodwill reestablished. I said I would think about it for a couple of days.

Then my experience with Verizon Fios hell came back three-fold. My wife received an email "confirming our Verizon order to install Fios on May 29". I assume my wife's email address is on record with Verizon because we are current land line customers. I hit the roof-- we had NOT ordered Fios!

I then became more angry because I could no longer reach the sales rep to "cancel" the order that I didn't make. I left two voice mail messages. I had been given the dedicated "special" Verizon number to call for customers and those who had place orders. Call wait time was 31 MINUTES! I left a recorded call-back message and my phone number. I then received an automated call back an hour later and was immediately put on hold again for the "next available representative".

A technical support rep finally came on the line and said he would try to cancel my order but I really need to speak to a sales rep. I said I had TRIED to but couldn't reach her.

The next day I was interrupted by an automated phone call from Verizon "confirming my Fios installation order". And, while I'm on the phone again trying to cancel an order I DID NOT MAKE, my door bell rings with a Verizon installation rep to do a "survey" before my upcoming installation. Finally, I was transferred all over Verizon before I could cancel my order- and SEPARATE cancellation for phone...for Internet...and for TV. The bureaucratic process of dealing various Verizon departments was awful for something which should be transparent to a customer/prospect. I don't care whether it's the copper or cable or Fios or Philadelphia or Pittsburgh department!

I know, I should have just let Verizon show up and be sent away. But I was more than a little, um, annoyed. At this point, it's impossible for me to rationally consider Verizon Fios, despite being arguably faster, better, cheaper, when Comcast seems to have improved its customer service act.

Is this horror story unique or fairly representative of other Verizon Fios customer service experience?

I just jumped over from the plasma display forum because I was considering switching from Comcast cable to Verizon Fios for Internet, TV and phone.

I write WAS because my initial customer service experience with Verizon Fios was so horrific that (and I can't believe I'm writing this) Comcast appears wonderfully customer-oriented and I've decided that it's better to stay with "the devil I know than switch to the devil I don't know".

I telephoned Verizon to confirm Fios was offered in my neighborhood (suburbs of Philadelphia). I called because each time I went online to check, it seemed to generate telemarketing phone calls and snail mail solicitations.

After one hour of waiting on the phone (I was multitasking while waiting), a Fios sales rep came on. I said I was so frustrated by waiting for 1 hour to get through on the phone when I wanted to BUY something, I was discouraged that service would even be worse when I wanted to reach customer service or tech support AFTER I had signed a contract and had Fios installed. Therefore, I had changed my mind about ordering Fios.

The sales rep called back after discussing my bad experience with her supervisor. I was offered many incentives, both financial and equipment/service packages and, frankly, I was impressed enough to now have some goodwill reestablished. I said I would think about it for a couple of days.

Then my experience with Verizon Fios hell came back three-fold. My wife received an email "confirming our Verizon order to install Fios on May 29". I assume my wife's email address is on record with Verizon because we are current land line customers. I hit the roof-- we had NOT ordered Fios!

I then became more angry because I could no longer reach the sales rep to "cancel" the order that I didn't make. I left two voice mail messages. I had been given the dedicated "special" Verizon number to call for customers and those who had place orders. Call wait time was 31 MINUTES! I left a recorded call-back message and my phone number. I then received an automated call back an hour later and was immediately put on hold again for the "next available representative".

A technical support rep finally came on the line and said he would try to cancel my order but I really need to speak to a sales rep. I said I had TRIED to but couldn't reach her.

The next day I was interrupted by an automated phone call from Verizon "confirming my Fios installation order". And, while I'm on the phone again trying to cancel an order I DID NOT MAKE, my door bell rings with a Verizon installation rep to do a "survey" before my upcoming installation. Finally, I was transferred all over Verizon before I could cancel my order- and SEPARATE cancellation for phone...for Internet...and for TV. The bureaucratic process of dealing various Verizon departments was awful for something which should be transparent to a customer/prospect. I don't care whether it's the copper or cable or Fios or Philadelphia or Pittsburgh department!

I know, I should have just let Verizon show up and be sent away. But I was more than a little, um, annoyed. At this point, it's impossible for me to rationally consider Verizon Fios, despite being arguably faster, better, cheaper, when Comcast seems to have improved its customer service act.

Is this horror story unique or fairly representative of other Verizon Fios customer service experience?

Well, if you read through this thread it seems to me the general consensus is that Verizon CS has been pretty good (if not great) for most people.

I have had a mix on the verizon side of things. Mostly good. they fixed (so they say) my first month over billing, got cable cards installed. But they are cheating me out of my $200 gift card to circuit city. You can read my email to their executives here:

http://consumerist.proboards88.com/index.cgi?board=general&action=display&thread=1310

-Will

Verizon Executive Costumer support just fixed my problems. They are no longer on my hate list. Thanks Verizon.

Well, if you read through this thread it seems to me the general consensus is that Verizon CS has been pretty good (if not great) for most people.

Well, then I'm glad I've provided an updated counterpoint. Believe me, if anything, I've understated how frustrating my Verizon contact was. I have no axe to grind here, but, wow, over-zealous sales practices combined with a faceless automated phone system, made this experience worse than dealing with any insurance company or government agency.

Despite any technological advantages Verizon Fios may have when compared with Comcast cable, this experience has scared me off...and I've had some real issues with Comcast over the years!

You might want to go over to the AVS forum Philly Verizon thread http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13721331&posted=1#post13721331 to get a perspective from members in your local area (it's my area also).

Hint: Update your profile to show your location. Can be helpful to know that when you have questions. I wouldn't have known you were Philly until you mentioned it.

FYI - Philly Comcast thread: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=182983&page=312

But they are cheating me out of my $200 gift card to circuit city.

I was told I should get a $200 gift card to Best Buy, and they are playing similar games with me. I left Verizon once Comcast offered local service in our area, and I'll do so again if they continue to play these kind of games. In seven or so years of being a Comcast customer I never had these types of problems with them.

I was told I should get a $200 gift card to Best Buy, and they are playing similar games with me. I left Verizon once Comcast offered local service in our area, and I'll do so again if they continue to play these kind of games. In seven or so years of being a Comcast customer I never had these types of problems with them.

I sympathize with those who've had CS or gift card problems w/ Verizon. Just to offer my experience:

The CS from order to installation to billing was smooth for me. The BB gift card arrived within the promised window (I think it was a little less than a month from ordering it online to receiving it), and we were very happy to use it when my wife bought a new laptop recently.

Regards,
Doug

Well, then I'm glad I've provided an updated counterpoint. Believe me, if anything, I've understated how frustrating my Verizon contact was. I have no axe to grind here, but, wow, over-zealous sales practices combined with a faceless automated phone system, made this experience worse than dealing with any insurance company or government agency.

Despite any technological advantages Verizon Fios may have when compared with Comcast cable, this experience has scared me off...and I've had some real issues with Comcast over the years!

I understand and it's unfortunate you had such a bad experience with them. My point is that overall Verizon CS seems to be pretty good (at least from people posting here), arguably better then other providers.

Just to update:

My email to executives worked and i will be receiving the other $100 within a week. The rep that called me also wanted to know if someone called me about the broadcast flag issue on motorola boxes.

Is this horror story unique or fairly representative of other Verizon Fios customer service experience?

This is my post on their customer service from last year. In the DC area I have been consistently happy with FIOS.

Great service call
Saturday night my house got hit by lightening- killing:
the ONT, interior power supply, battery back up, actiontec router, 1 DVR, 1 pc, 1 sdtv & some partial damage to my hdtv.
I called Verizon at 10:30 that night and got a service appointment for between 11:30 and 3 Sunday. 10 AM Sunday the tech is at my door, his earlier appointment had finished fast and he could start then, or if I wanted he would come back later. I had him start right away.
The tech had to replace the entire installation twice- I had the original 10 series ONT that isn't supported anymore. He replaced with a series 13 which isn't supported in my area( HQ support told him to use it so i don't hold this against the home tech) so that had to be removed and re-replaced with a series 12 ONT.
The guy left at 5 PM and I had time to hit BB to replace the dead sd with a new hd. The tech was extremely nice-wished my wife a happy Mother's Day- and quite knowledgeable. The only downside was the time it took, owing to the full replacement of the ONT and supporting equipment twice (the different ONTs use different batteries and power supplies) and the paperwork required because the ONT series changed.
All in all though in less than 24 hours Verizon came out and fixed the problem and I'm quite happy.

I just posted a rundown of the DCT700 diagnostics menu over at DSL Reports: http://www.dslreports.com/forum/r20389024-Digital-Adapter-DCT700-Diagnostics-Menu

Update: The diagnostics menu is now a FAQ over on DSL Reports.com. What Information Can My Set-Top Box Tell Me: http://www.dslreports.com/faq/15925

The diagnostics menu is read-only - there's nothing you can change to cause a problem (except for one minor thing in the DCT700... but it's not permanent). Very helpful if you want to know how your STB is configured on the network, RF stuff, firmware version info, display / audio configuration, etc. Covers the 64xx series and the Digital Adapter (DCT700).

Well I live on Staten Island NY and verizon came to my door yesterday and asked me if I was interested in switching from Time Warner to Fios TV. I'd like to know if there is anyone here who made the switch and found it worthwhile?
What are the pros and cons if I switch?Would I save money? Better picture?
More channels? HELP! :confused:

I forgot to mention I already have fios internet and use verizon phone service:)

Well I live on Staten Island NY and verizon came to my door yesterday and asked me if I was interested in switching from Time Warner to Fios TV. I'd like to know if there is anyone here who made the switch and found it worthwhile?
What are the pros and cons if I switch?Would I save money? Better picture?
More channels? HELP! :confused:

im having fios installed in a week and for me im saving some money over cablevision i will be getting more channels but for me its the better pq from what i have seen verizon is better and with the triple play offers i dont think you could go wrong plus a $200 gift card how could you beet it

I had Fios Triple installed three weeks ago. The installer put in one additional dct700 digital adapter onto my old analog tv because he said Fios is totally digital and my old set would not work with it. He told me that there would be no charge for the digital adapter, only the regular set top boxes. I also have a HD DVR & cable card installed on two other sets. I received my bill this month and am being billed $3.99 a month for the digital adapter? Called Verizon CS and was told that because I am receiving all the channels on the digital adapter I must pay for it! My question is directed to anyone who has the digital adapters installed. Do you get all the channels you are paying for or just the locals and if so do you pay the monthly charge? By reading this forum, it seems Verizon billing makes a lot of mistakes. Thnx for the info.

I don't know how much this will help you, but i work at a school and we get free Fios internet and basic TV. We had installed about 6 months ago, but 3 weeks ago the guy showed up with a DCT700 for our TV (we don't use it anyway). He said it was free since we were going all digital in the next few weeks. Granted we don't pay for anything anyway, but i don't think he knows that much about the billing side of things.

I had Fios Triple installed three weeks ago. The installer put in one additional dct700 digital adapter onto my old analog tv because he said Fios is totally digital and my old set would not work with it. He told me that there would be no charge for the digital adapter, only the regular set top boxes. I also have a HD DVR & cable card installed on two other sets. I received my bill this month and am being billed $3.99 a month for the digital adapter? Called Verizon CS and was told that because I am receiving all the channels on the digital adapter I must pay for it! My question is directed to anyone who has the digital adapters installed. Do you get all the channels you are paying for or just the locals and if so do you pay the monthly charge? By reading this forum, it seems Verizon billing makes a lot of mistakes. Thnx for the info.

Virtually the same thing happenned to me. Customer service is NOT the dept to talk to.

The problem arose because you received the adapter from the installer. The FREE promo is through the Digital Solutions Dept.
If the order originates any other way, you will be billed for the adapter.

So, you need to make 2 phone calls. The first to the Digital Solutions @ 888-505-3512. Tell them that when you had the install you mentioned to the tech about the FREE adapter and he said no problem, I can install it (I assume from your post that you had not ordered it in advance) and it wil be @ N/C. Then ask that they correct it in their system so that going forward it will billed/credited correctly every month.

Second, call the BILLING dept and tell them there was a mix up and that you spoke with the Digital Solutions folks who had not put it in as N/C, but it should correct next month. Then ask for the credit for this month's bill.

When I went through this, both Digital Solutions and Billing told me that this is happenning a lot.

I am being told by Verizon cs that the adapter was installed with all the channels I am paying for and this is the reason I have to pay the monthly fee. Does anyone who received the free adapters receive just the local channels or the rest of the channels also?

Di you not read my post right above yours ? If so, re read it. Do NOT talk to the CS dept. You are being mis informed. You receive all the channels you receive on any other standard def box in your house, just not the HD's.

FYI - I just ordered my free digital adapters, expected in 5 - 7 days. I didn't see any tech info about them in this thread. Did a google search and found that Comcast :rolleyes: has the DCT700 Installation Manual online: http://www.comcast.com/medialibrary/1/1/Customers/DemosAndManuals/Manuals/dct700man.pdf

Also posted at DSL Reports, DCT700 thread: http://www.dslreports.com/forum/r20370395-DCT700-data

Good detailed info about the diagnostics menu and RF specs.

GeekGirl: FIOS TV just got the go-ahead in my town here in MA;I am already a FIOS internet/phone customer and will add the TV portion; one of my tv's is an old analog Sony & the Digital Adpater is the way to go for this set as it is used infrequently but is a good 53" set; I will be ordering the HD recorder box for the main tv;my ? ;how do I go about getting the digital adapter without incurring the $4 monthly cost; ordering online seems to add this charge; I have read various posts where people are getting the adapters with no monthly charge; do I wait for the installer and ask him for it, or do I order online and then have to call Digital Solutions and Billing as another poster said; your post implied you were able to order for free...many thanks

GeekGirl: FIOS TV just got the go-ahead in my town here in MA;I am already a FIOS internet/phone customer and will add the TV portion; one of my tv's is an old analog Sony & the Digital Adpater is the way to go for this set as it is used infrequently but is a good 53" set; I will be ordering the HD recorder box for the main tv;my ? ;how do I go about getting the digital adapter without incurring the $4 monthly cost; ordering online seems to add this charge; I have read various posts where people are getting the adapters with no monthly charge; do I wait for the installer and ask him for it, or do I order online and then have to call Digital Solutions and Billing as another poster said; your post implied you were able to order for free...many thanks
The ONLY way to get it @N/C, right from the start, is to order it from the Digital Solutions phone number that I posted on the previous page*. Just be sure to mention that you have an old analog TV.

Edit : * 888-505-3512

I did it as shadowcaster said. The way Verizon's billing is set up, if you try to do something "out of order" with the expected response, they won't have a clue on what to do. IOW, call the number shadowcaster says.

Thank you both so much....

Just had my Fios TV and internet installed today. Install went smoothly except for a cable run I had that needed to be replaced. Other than that, no problems encountered. Picture is FANTASTIC!!!

I just got the DCT-700 and I receive all the channels I subscribe to. I'll let you know if it's free after I get my next bill.

Thnx, I do apprecaite that.

This may seem like an odd question but please read on.

I use a VISTA Media Center PC as my Verizon FIOS DVR but just like the TIVO, it is NOT a two way device so I can not get On Demand or the widgets.

So, I pay $5.99/month for a Standard Definition STB to get On Demand,etc.


I see that this new DCT-700 IS a 2 way device and is $3.99/month to rent.

Can I use this DCT-700 instead of the Standard Def STB and have all the same features such as On Demand?

If I use the DCT-700, It will save me $2/month. Call me a cheapskate but I look at it as getting ONE free Netflix movie rental a month.

Thanks

I see that this new DCT-700 IS a 2 way device and is $3.99/month to rent.

Can I use this DCT-700 instead of the Standard Def STB and have all the same features such as On Demand?
No. The DCT-700 does not support VOD or provide any guide data. The DCT-700 is a minimal SD box that does not have a IP interface, so it can't access VOD and the guide data which are sent over the internet.

I am using the Motorola QIP-6200 with Verizon's FIOS. I have an issue when the STB is set to output at 1080i. The left 2 to 4% of the image is displayed about 10 pixels lower than the rest of the image. This gives it a ripped or tearing look on the left side. The problem goes away if I select the output to 720P.

What I have done so far is the following;

1. Tried a different set of HDMI cable
2. Tried a different QIP-6200 box
3. Tried a different HDTV with HDMI inputs
4. Reset the box from Verizon
5. Done a cold reset of the box from home

All of this and no change at all in the results.

HELP!!! :confused:

Have you tried component?
Can you even tell the diff between 720P and 1080i? If not just leave at 720P.

What I have done so far is the following;

1. Tried a different set of HDMI cable
2. Tried a different QIP-6200 box
3. Tried a different HDTV with HDMI inputs
4. Reset the box from Verizon
5. Done a cold reset of the box from home
All of this and no change at all in the results.

Yes, use a component cable. Changing the HDMI cable is not going to fix it nor is swapping out the STB. This is a reportedly a bug in the STB/DVR firmware for the HDMI interface that shows up on certain model TVs. You will likely lose very little in picture quality, if any, with a component connection. And you will get away from all the HDCP handshake crap when switching resolution (480i SD and 720p/1080i HD) that causes a lot of problems.

biker19
Have you tried component?
Can you even tell the diff between 720P and 1080i? If not just leave at 720P.
No have not tried component video with the STB since I am currently using the component input on my set for another source that I am using that does not have HDMI. Will see what I can do to switch it from HDMI to Component, or at least try it to see if it does fix it.Your next question the answer is yes and no some channels look exactly the same in 720 and 1080, however there are other channels that do have a difference in image quality when you switch it to 1080i. 1080i being better with the exception of this ripping on the left side.


affigatt
Have you tried component?
Can you even tell the diff between 720P and 1080i? If not just leave at 720P.
Thanks for that information, I do not have a DVR with this unit the 6200 is a straight STB only, but this is the first I have heard of it being a firmware problem. I have made tons of phone calls to Verizon & Motorola and search the net, and have not heard or found this firmware problem mentioned. Where did you hear about this?
You will likely lose very little in picture quality, if any, with a component connection. And you will get away from all the HDCP handshake crap when switching resolution (480i SD and 720p/1080i HD) that causes a lot of problems.
I have heard the the HDCP handshake issue, luckily that does not effect me, however besides image quality is there any other loss in going from HDMI to Component? The obvious for me is I can no loger use HDMI for audio & video, I would now have to add an alternative cable for the audio. Do I loose any interactivity, VOD or anything else in dropping HDMI for componenent?

Do I loose any interactivity, VOD or anything else in dropping HDMI for componenent?
All that stuff is handled within the STB and is not affected by what/how you connect the STB to.

I am using the Motorola QIP-6200 with Verizon's FIOS. I have an issue when the STB is set to output at 1080i. The left 2 to 4% of the image is displayed about 10 pixels lower than the rest of the image. This gives it a ripped or tearing look on the left side. The problem goes away if I select the output to 720P.Is there also anything like a green line at the right edge? Might be worthwhile searching this thread: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13759205#post13759205 This is the HD DVR thread, but it might help to see if there's anything similar. The center photo shows distortion on the left edge, maybe there's something similar. Probably not, but wouldn't hurt to check around. Follow the previous post to the Verizon FiOS forum and do some searching over there.

For cables, remember http://www.monoprice.com/home/index.asp

FWIW, all audio outputs are on simultaneously independent of the video. You can connect to whatever output you need (or all of them).

GeekGirl

Thats looks like the same problem I have with my QIP-6200 with Verizon.

Thanks Will read that thread as well, but it sounds like no cure for it, and Verizon is in denial.

Existing FIOS internet/phone customer with TV scheduled install this Sat;the router is connected to the ONT via coax, no Cat 5 wiring; does the coax for TV service go from the ONT to the STB or from the Actiontec router to the STB? Just trying to "clear a path" for the installer...thanks...

does the coax for TV service go from the ONT to the STB or from the Actiontec router to the STB?

In my house the coax coming out of the ONT is split. One side goes to the Actiontec, the other side goes to the house's existing coax system. The coax coming out of the wall that fed my TV the Comcast signal is now feeding it the FiOS signal.

As craig_wagner says. They will probably install a splitter and put one feed to the ActionTec, the rest of the outputs will go to your STBs. Remember that the RF flows in both directions, so the router will pass along the now authorized IMG and VOD data back into the ONT over the coax. From there, the ONT handles all the two-way data with the STBs. There's plenty of signal so you shouldn't have to worry about the size of the splitter. Mine has 8 taps (3 TVs + ActionTech in use).

I am in Montgomery County, MD and currently have Verizon FiOS Internet and phone along with DirecTV. Next week I am switching to Verizon for TV as well. The order indicates they will be installing a Motorola 6200 for the HD TV and a Motorola 2500 for my non-HD. The non-HD line feeds to a video capture card on my computer that I use with SnapStream Media's Beyond TV PC DVR software to record to my hard drive. The capture card is pretty primitive (ATI All-in-Wonder), so no cable card involved there.

The software supports two mechanisms for changing channels on a cable box: IR transmitter or serial/USB tuner if the box supports it. I am currently able to use the serial/USB mechanism (which is preferred) with my DirecTV box and am hoping someone can confirm that this will work with the Verizon/Motorola 2500 combination as well. The Snapstream forums seem to indicate that the 2500 supports this, but it sounds like it is up to the carrier as to whether that feature is enabled.

As craig_wagner says. They will probably install a splitter and put one feed to the ActionTec, the rest of the outputs will go to your STBs. Remember that the RF flows in both directions, so the router will pass along the now authorized IMG and VOD data back into the ONT over the coax. From there, the ONT handles all the two-way data with the STBs. There's plenty of signal so you shouldn't have to worry about the size of the splitter. Mine has 8 taps (3 TVs + ActionTech in use).

Thanks to you both; looking forward to dumping DTV...

Thanks to you both; looking forward to dumping DTV...

You won't be disappointed. I switched from COX Cable and couldn't be happier with the FIOS service. Even my wife is impressed with the picture quality and internet speed - and she rarely notices such things.

I've had Fios for about a month now and I have to say i'm very disappointed by the picture quality of their On Demand content. It is much worse than I thought it would be. Any non-On Demand picture is very good (HD or standard def).
Does it matter where the router is positioned in the room? Right now it's right below my TV. Any tips on improving the picture quality would be appreciated.

Thanks guys,
Greg

Try pointing the rabbit ears on the router at opposing 45 degree angles. A little tin foil bunched up around the ends of the antennae also helps.

I've had Fios for about a month now and I have to say i'm very disappointed by the picture quality of their On Demand content. It is much worse than I thought it would be. Any non-On Demand picture is very good (HD or standard def).
Does it matter where the router is positioned in the room? Right now it's right below my TV. Any tips on improving the picture quality would be appreciated.

Thanks guys,
Greg

I've had Fios for about a month now and I have to say i'm very disappointed by the picture quality of their On Demand content. It is much worse than I thought it would be. Any non-On Demand picture is very good (HD or standard def).
Does it matter where the router is positioned in the room? Right now it's right below my TV. Any tips on improving the picture quality would be appreciated.

Thanks guys,
Greg
Keep in mind that VOD is IP video, so nothing you can do. I find the pq OK but for the most part unwatchable because of pixelaztion and breakup (although non vod is fine)

I've had Fios for about a month now and I have to say i'm very disappointed by the picture quality of their On Demand content. It is much worse than I thought it would be. Any non-On Demand picture is very good (HD or standard def).
Does it matter where the router is positioned in the room? Right now it's right below my TV. Any tips on improving the picture quality would be appreciated.

Thanks guys,
Greg

The position of the router shouldn't matter, since the router is handling On Demand through its coax connection. Is the picture showing pixelation, etc? or just not as sharp a picture?

I haven't had any issues except early on with on demand, now even HD on demand is very good.

Try doing a power cycle (power off, wait 45 seconds, power back on) on your router. Otherwise, I'd get in touch with Verizon, let them know the issue. You shouldn't have this problem.

My wife loves VOD, mostly because it's so convenient. It's hard for me to watch, though, because the picture is so soft and the sound is muffled. I assume they have to compress the signal quite a bit to achieve the "on-demand" status. I haven't had any problems such as pixelation or break-ups, however.

Doug

My wife loves VOD, mostly because it's so convenient. It's hard for me to watch, though, because the picture is so soft and the sound is muffled. I assume they have to compress the signal quite a bit to achieve the "on-demand" status. I haven't had any problems such as pixelation or break-ups, however.

Doug

Although compression may be an issue, the pathway used to deliver VOD is completely different than that taken by regular (HD and SD) broadcasts. The VOD broadcasts use IPTV and are pushed over your data connection.

The VOD (HD and SD) comes down the same pipeline as your internet feed, and is eventually sourced through your router to its final destination, the TV. I haven't heard of any further compression that is done with IPTV signals on our service; I haven't seen it, and I've seen quite a bit of VOD, especially HD VOD. I saw an hour long Cristina Aguilera concert in HD that was awesome both in sound and picture quality, so I guess my advice would be to touch base with Verizon, tell them what you're seeing and see if they need to swap out your router.

Although compression may be an issue, the pathway used to deliver VOD is completely different than that taken by regular (HD and SD) broadcasts. The VOD broadcasts use IPTV and are pushed over your data connection.

The VOD (HD and SD) comes down the same pipeline as your internet feed, and is eventually sourced through your router to its final destination, the TV. I haven't heard of any further compression that is done with IPTV signals on our service; I haven't seen it, and I've seen quite a bit of VOD, especially HD VOD. I saw an hour long Cristina Aguilera concert in HD that was awesome both in sound and picture quality, so I guess my advice would be to touch base with Verizon, tell them what you're seeing and see if they need to swap out your router.I have a HD Moto DVD and a SD non DVR box. Fo some reasom the HD box VOD pixelates and breaks up audio on both HD and SD.

The SD box plays the SD vod just fine. Makes no sense to me. I've reset the box and the router several times but it still does it. I'd call VZN but I'm not going to hang around the house all day for this.

If router readings have anything to do with this, here they are, although I can't imagine why too hot a signal, if that's a factor, would affect just one box :
Low > 0.8
Mid > 1.9
High > 3.2

I seem to recall that these numbers are actually very good.

According to a Verizon Tech supervisor those that have the Motorola 6200 series HD STB that have a proble with the HDMI out at 1080i showing the wrinkle on the left and the green band on the right. They are not going to be fixing it. He also told me these boxes have problems with some Samsung T.V.'s as well as some other smaller issues which he claims got fixed. The plan is at least in Florida that they are going to change the HD STB by august to a new 7700 series. This should correct all these problems plus be able to output at 1080P.

Will see.

Here's a link to an article that does a pretty good job of explaining Verizon's fiber optic network to Comcast's "Advanced Fiber Optic Network":

http://www.soundandvisionmag.com/features/2824/fios-tv-the-light-fantastic.html

Dazed & Confused...

I got my Triple bundle scheduled to be installed on 6/4/08.(wohoo!)

$114.99 + 5.99 STB + 9.99 HD Box + 15.99 HDDVR = $146.97

$47.99 FIOS Tv
$46.99 Freedom Essential Phone (Landline) I guess
$52.99 FIOS Internet 15/2
$147.97
$-32.98 Bundle Savings
$114.99 + STB Fees

The CSR stated that the Voip phone service was not included with the triple bundle pricing, The package deal was based for the Freedom Essenntial service.

I could not find any info on Voip pricing with FIOS bundles..

I was hoping i could get rid of the freedom plan (charges extra fees FSL $5.99) and use Voip.

Questions:

Will they be using my existing Landline to connect to the ONT or just use ONT for Internet & TV?

Would it be cheaper to get Voip through another company and save on the $46.99 they are charging for my Phone service? ($24.99 Vonnage)

Does any one know what the Triple bundle price is for FIOS TV/Internet/Voip Phone Package?

Sincerely thanks
Charlie

I think Verizon's voip is the same price as Vonage -24.99. Yes they connect existing landline to the ONT. The ONT has a coax (for TV) a CAT5 (for Internet) and 2-4 regular phone jacks for POTS. I thought most bundles for triple play with voip are $99 but it depends on the market and timing.

Dazed & Confused...

I got my Triple bundle scheduled to be installed on 6/4/08.(wohoo!)

$114.99 + 5.99 STB + 9.99 HD Box + 15.99 HDDVR = $146.97

$47.99 FIOS Tv
$46.99 Freedom Essential Phone (Landline) I guess
$52.99 FIOS Internet 15/2
$147.97
$-32.98 Bundle Savings
$114.99 + STB Fees

The CSR stated that the Voip phone service was not included with the triple bundle pricing, The package deal was based for the Freedom Essenntial service.

I could not find any info on Voip pricing with FIOS bundles..

I was hoping i could get rid of the freedom plan (charges extra fees FSL $5.99) and use Voip.

Questions:

Will they be using my existing Landline to connect to the ONT or just use ONT for Internet & TV?

Would it be cheaper to get Voip through another company and save on the $46.99 they are charging for my Phone service? ($24.99 Vonnage)

Does any one know what the Triple bundle price is for FIOS TV/Internet/Voip Phone Package?

Sincerely thanks
Charlie

You should be able to get the Sports & Movie pack free for 2008?

1) They will connect you internal wiring to the ONT. Probably at the box where the current copper comes into the house.
2) You would no longer get the bundle discount (32.98) if you drop phone.
3) I'm not aware of a TP with VoiceWing... If so, I'd be all over it.

Thanks for the all the info....

Does any one know of a web site that has a detailed view of an ONT terminal?

Does the ONT have 1 input for the incoming landline & 1 output going to a junction box to split the lines to all the wall jacks?

I would like to have all the wiring ready so he has to do is plug, program and go...

I have the coaxial & CAT 5 lines ready to go. Just need some clarification on the phone line.

The ONT will be located where the existing line(s) come into the home.
1 residential & 1 business line.

Currently the hard-line coming to the home has 2pair Wiring (1pr Residential & 1pr Business)

I have all the residential lines going to a junction bridge and that is connected to the 1pr and than I have all the business lines going to another junction bridge connected to the other 1pr.

So, in theory all I will have to do run the residential pair to the ONT and than take it to the residential junction bridge.

Just looking to cover everything before he/she gets here...

Charlie

You are all set - the wiring from the ONT for phone will just tie in to the spot where the copper previously connected. Depending on the installer they may even pull out the old copper all the way to the street. If you have any doubts about which way to go on the phone side (POTS vs VOIP)decide now - if you change your mind later they'll charge you another trip.

Thanks for the all the info....

Does any one know of a web site that has a detailed view of an ONT terminal?

Does the ONT have 1 input for the incoming landline & 1 output going to a junction box to split the lines to all the wall jacks?

I would like to have all the wiring ready so he has to do is plug, program and go...

I have the coaxial & CAT 5 lines ready to go. Just need some clarification on the phone line.

The ONT will be located where the existing line(s) come into the home.
1 residential & 1 business line.

Currently the hard-line coming to the home has 2pair Wiring (1pr Residential & 1pr Business)

I have all the residential lines going to a junction bridge and that is connected to the 1pr and than I have all the business lines going to another junction bridge connected to the other 1pr.

So, in theory all I will have to do run the residential pair to the ONT and than take it to the residential junction bridge.

Just looking to cover everything before he/she gets here...

Charlie

The ONT has 4 RJ-11 jacks for up to four phone lines. They will connect these directly to your existing wiring. If your business line is a completely separate account from your res line, as mine was, it will not end up being part of the order and the Tech will have a nightmare getting it swapped over to fiber. For me, it took the tech about an hour to do the entire installation, including running the fiber from the street and cutting down the copper, then took him about four hours to get the biz line working.

If you are getting TV, they will need to run Coax to the Wireless router as well. This is how the boxes get their guide. Using your own router is no an option.

If you are getting TV, they will need to run Coax to the Wireless router as well.

Where does the router physically reside? Next to the ONT?

Thanks,

pj

Where does the router physically reside? Next to the ONT?

Wherever you want it to reside (and can get coax to). Mine is sitting on my desk next to my monitor (the ONT is in the garage).

If you are getting TV, they will need to run Coax to the Wireless router as well. This is how the boxes get their guide. Using your own router is no an option.However, you can use the ActionTec router as a bridge to your own router. There's a very active thread on this topic over on DSL Reports: http://www.dslreports.com/forum/r17679150-Howto-make-ActionTec-MI424WR-a-network-bridge

cjghome - Search the DSL Reports Verizon FiOS forum for info on the ONT: http://www.dslreports.com/forum/vzfiostv

The FiOS FAQ has a lot of general info: http://www.dslreports.com/faq/verizonfios

ONT info can be found here: http://fiosfaq.com/content.php?contentid=1

I recently had FIOS installed, generally I am happy.

Maybe I'm just not used to it, but the Verizon DVR software doesn't seem very user friendly.

Coming from my Replay TVs to Comcast., I didn't think anyone could have worse DVR software, but Verizon may have done it.

Anyway, I tried searching without any luck... I have the QIP6416-2 DVR, and I can't figure out how to switch between tuners?

On Comcast, I used to like to watch two shows more or less at the same time by switching back and forth between tuners, and either rewinding or pausing and watching the show from the buffer.

Is there any way to to that on the verizon box?

I have the QIP6416-2 DVR, and I can't figure out how to switch between tuners?

Is there any way to to that on the verizon box?

Not that I've been able to find. The box switches automatically when it needs to. Using the Prev Ch button on the remote should get you the same behavior though if you're trying to toggle between two channels.

As great as the Fios technology is, I didn't realize until 2 days ago just how vulnerable we are for having all our eggs in one basket.
Friday morning we lost TV, phone and internet all at once. ONT went into fail mode. 24 hrs later a tech arrived and discovered no light at the ONT. We were back up and running but my wife wasn't too thrilled by this. (only have the sevice for 1/1/2 months)

As great as the Fios technology is, I didn't realize until 2 days ago just how vulnerable we are for having all our eggs in one basket.
Friday morning we lost TV, phone and internet all at once. ONT went into fail mode. 24 hrs later a tech arrived and discovered no light at the ONT. We were back up and running but my wife wasn't too thrilled by this. (only have the sevice for 1/1/2 months)

This is exactly why I'm hesitant to get FIOS and why I've been reading this thread. When I called in to Verizon a year and a half ago they told me I'd HAVE to give up my land line and use FIOS for telephone service, which REQUIRES electricity. That's not acceptable to me. What happens if there's a lengthy blackout? Yes, I can use my cell phone but what if the charge happens to be low at the time? Three or four years ago the whole region had a blackout for more than 24 hours...my town more than 30 hours. My land line performed perfectly. Sections of Queens NY went out for more than a week, some parts several weeks, about 2 years ago. I know FIOS gives you battery backup but that will last only so long. I'd be interested in hearing more comments on this issue.

Thanks....

Battery backup is only 8 hrs so you are correct, any lenghty blackout and we're SOL. We don't have an active cell phone anymore but we can dial 911 and make a credit card call, if necessary on our old one. (just found out that capability by accident recently)

Verizon can't help with a lengthy power outage - but shadowcasters issue was not power related. When FIOS first started there was a few posts about the fact that because phone is part of the service, Verizon's response time to an outage is governed by phone rules (8-24hrs?) not the more relaxed cable TV rules (3 days?). Getting more time can be done fairly easily - just attach a bigger battery to the ONT power supply and ensure you have a wired phone.

Verizon can't help with a lengthy power outage - but shadowcasters issue was not power related. When FIOS first started there was a few posts about the fact that because phone is part of the service, Verizon's response time to an outage is governed by phone rules (8-24hrs?) not the more relaxed cable TV rules (3 days?). Getting more time can be done fairly easily - just attach a bigger battery to the ONT power supply and ensure you have a wired phone.

I plugged my ONT Power Supply into a big a** UPS. I haven't had an outage long enough to test its length in three years. This, of course, won't help with one of those week long "Transformer blew up" type outages like we had a bunch of years back in the Red Bank, NJ area.

I noticed last week that I could not receive channels 75 and 76 (Versus and Fox Soccer Channel). When changing to those channels picture would freeze on prior channel and then finally go to the "channel unavailable" message. This is on the HD DVR...meanwhile on a regular HD box, these channels come in, but heavily pixelated. On another thread, where I posted this, the assumption was signal problem.

However, during a timeout in the Celtics game last night I decided to flip through all the channels and found that its almost 20 channels that are not coming in. Could this mean I am not picking up one QAM signal for some reason?

The channels are:

75
76
85
87
105
106
107
122
164
168
171
194
202
212
230
231
232
241

I stopped in low 200's because I know I don't get all of them. Movie channels and HD are fine, did not check music channels either. Time to call Verizon!@

As great as the Fios technology is, I didn't realize until 2 days ago just how vulnerable we are for having all our eggs in one basket.
Friday morning we lost TV, phone and internet all at once. ONT went into fail mode. 24 hrs later a tech arrived and discovered no light at the ONT. We were back up and running but my wife wasn't too thrilled by this. (only have the sevice for 1/1/2 months)
When I first added FIOS Internet a couple of years ago, I kept my two phone lines as copper, for just this reason. I didn't want my phone service to rely on street power.

When I add FIOS TV last December, it was Verizon's incompetence that led to my phone lines being left as copper. Because they didn't put in the order correctly, it has taken months to get the billing straightened out for the Triple package pricing. I still don't have the free TV, but that should be coming soon.

I think the account is finally straightened out, and I now have fiber Internet and TV, and copper phone service.

I noticed last week that I could not receive channels 75 and 76 (Versus and Fox Soccer Channel). When changing to those channels picture would freeze on prior channel and then finally go to the "channel unavailable" message. This is on the HD DVR...meanwhile on a regular HD box, these channels come in, but heavily pixelated. On another thread, where I posted this, the assumption was signal problem.

However, during a timeout in the Celtics game last night I decided to flip through all the channels and found that its almost 20 channels that are not coming in. Could this mean I am not picking up one QAM signal for some reason?

The channels are:

75
76
85
87
105
106
107
122
164
168
171
194
202
212
230
231
232
241

I stopped in low 200's because I know I don't get all of them. Movie channels and HD are fine, did not check music channels either. Time to call Verizon!@

Hmm... That happened to me with HBO a couple of days ago. Try this:

1. Unplug the HD DVR from power.
2. Unplug the coax line.
3. Hold for 45 sec.
4. Plug the coax line back
5. Plug the power line back.

This worked for me when that notice kept coming up with some channels. Have not seen it (except for the time with HBO) since.

Otherwise, it's a Verizon call.

Sounds like an authorization problem. I'd call Verizon. Had this problem before, where I'd get some channels and not others. The online reset you do from your Verizon login account won't cut it. Verizon's reset sends a lot more info to the box and should fix the problem.

Just went through this last night with my DCT700 digital adapter. It wouldn't get anything above channel 49 and an online reset didn't help. Be sure to ask for tech support.

As great as the Fios technology is, I didn't realize until 2 days ago just how vulnerable we are for having all our eggs in one basket.
Friday morning we lost TV, phone and internet all at once. ONT went into fail mode. 24 hrs later a tech arrived and discovered no light at the ONT. We were back up and running but my wife wasn't too thrilled by this. (only have the sevice for 1/1/2 months)

My installer told me that if the battery would give power for about 8 hours (thats not talk time), and would hold enough power in reserve to make an emergency call.
This is done by connecting a phone directly to the ONT, and pressing the Battery Emergency Use button on the Battery Backup Unit.

My installer told me that if the battery would give power for about 8 hours (thats not talk time), and would hold enough power in reserve to make an emergency call.
This is done by connecting a phone directly to the ONT, and pressing the Battery Emergency Use button on the Battery Backup Unit.
Good info ! I wasn't aware of that at all.

I'm still having a hard time grasping the landline connection situation...

If we need to connect the existing incoming copper line to the ONT,
Why do we need to have a BBU to make out going emergancy calls? I thought the BBU was for only the Voip service to make emergancy calls.

Also, If we are made to pay for a landline based price $46.99 structure on the phone portion of the Triple bundle, why do even need to connect to the existing copper to the ONT?.

Is Verizon really giving us Voip?

Please help me understand...

Charlie

Here's what you're missing: The copper does not connect to the ONT, it replaces it (unless you fight Verizon). Phone calls go over the fiber along with internet and TV. The BBU will power the ONT to allow you to make calls. It works just fine on battery.

My copper was left at the base of the foundation. Is there any chance that the wires are still active with my phone number or is that disconnected when they made the "switch" to fiber?

I echo that question exactly.

Well, I guess there's one way to find out. Only 8-10 wires ,as I recall ,so I'll just put a handset on each pair and test it. I've got to believe that it's probably disconnected though.

My copper was left at the base of the foundation. Is there any chance that the wires are still active with my phone number or is that disconnected when they made the "switch" to fiber?

No your number is not active on the copper. Your number is "rerouted" inside the CO off of the copper frame and into the fiber distribution equipment.

Well, I guess there's one way to find out. Only 8-10 wires ,as I recall ,so I'll just put a handset on each pair and test it. I've got to believe that it's probably disconnected though.Don't even waste your time. Pop open a beer instead :D. Your assumption is correct, it is disconnected. Dual service on copper and fiber isn't doable.

I'm still having a hard time grasping the landline connection situation...

If we need to connect the existing incoming copper line to the ONT,
Why do we need to have a BBU to make out going emergancy calls? I thought the BBU was for only the Voip service to make emergancy calls.
The incoming copper line (drop) is not connected to the ONT. It is either abandoned in place or removed (depending on local "policy"). Since power is not transmitted over the fiber line, the ONT provides the proper voltage for your phones to work, hence the need for a BBU. The BBU is essential to maintain your POTS line in the case of a power failure.


Also, If we are made to pay for a landline based price $46.99 structure on the phone portion of the Triple bundle, why do even need to connect to the existing copper to the ONT?.
What may be tripping you up a bit is terminology. To me and possibly to others, existing copper usually means the inside wiring. In your mind, break your current copper setup into two parts, inside and outside. The inside is your existing inside wiring (IW) and the outside is the incoming copper (drop).

Is Verizon really giving us Voip?
No, you're still getting regular dialtone, only the delivery method of your dialtone is changed.

Please help me understand...

Charlie
Hope that helps

Lets suppose that prior to even talking FiOS with VZ, my wife subscribes to a 2nd, separately billed, POTS line for her own enjoyment.
I then convert line #1 to FiOS, the works.
She then modifies her service on line #2 to the minimum required to keep the line usable.
Recognizing the increased cost, do we then have both POTS and FiOS telephone service on the premises:confused:?

Lets suppose that prior to even talking FiOS with VZ, my wife subscribes to a 2nd, separately billed, POTS line for her own enjoyment.
I then convert line #1 to FiOS, the works.
She then modifies her service on line #2 to the minimum required to keep the line usable.
Recognizing the increased cost, do we then have both POTS and FiOS telephone service on the premises:confused:?

Yes, since it's a separately billed account.