No - not at all. From the ONT is a coax cable to my router. From my router is cat5 to my PC. There is no cat5 out to my ONT. I watched the guy install it and even pointed it out which got us into the discussion about the MoCA router.From the router to the PC ...

A commercially available Moca / Ethernet adaptor would let you put your PC (or print server or other Ethernet devices) anywhere on your coax network that you wanted. Right now, you need to run CAT5 (or use wireless) from the router to PCs, print servers, broadband-connected Tivos, etc.

With a commercially available Moca / Ethernet adaptor ... you wouldn't (as long as you had a coax outlet there).

BTW, I wish they'd hurry with those commercially available Moca / Ethernet adaptors too ...

No - not at all. From the ONT is a coax cable to my router. From my router is cat5 to my PC. There is no cat5 out to my ONT. I watched the guy install it and even pointed it out which got us into the discussion about the MoCA router.
See above - we're not talking about that connection but an Ethernet connection from the coax to the PC. The issue is that some folks have coax in the house but not so much CAT5. If the IP traffic is available via coax you can be in some far away room that has a coax connection and via an adapter you can plug in your PC (without pulling CAT5 there).

So am I right in thinking that when an ethernet to MoCa adapter is released that I could plug my computer into a coax jack and as long as there is a MoCa router also plugged into a coax jack that this could be used as my home network?Exactly.Does anyone know if MoCa products like switches, NICs and routers are planned for consumers or is this stuff really for providers like Verizon?"Planned for"? Yes, sure ... eventually.

However, no manufacturers are showing off / announcing consumer products (yet).

Would love to see something like this on the market:
http://www.actiontec.com/products/home_networking/megafast_coax_net_adapter/index.php

But ... so far ... the Moca vendors have been concentrated on providers (not just Verizon BTW, they'd love to get into the tradional cable companies of course).

Some HomePlug and Powerline based stuff (plugs into electrical outlets) can be found at retail ... even some HomePNA (phone jacks) stuff out there ... but ... no Moca at retail (unless you want to go to eBay and bid on some of the NIMs / routers from Verizon).

No - not at all. From the ONT is a coax cable to my router. From my router is cat5 to my PC. There is no cat5 out to my ONT. I watched the guy install it and even pointed it out which got us into the discussion about the MoCA router.

The guy that installed mine said that, in his opinion, coax to the router from the ONT, was better than cat5. And it wasn't a case of him trying not to run the cat5, because I already had a conduit that it could have easily run through.

So am I right in thinking that when an ethernet to MoCa adapter is released that I could plug my computer into a coax jack and as long as there is a MoCa router also plugged into a coax jack that this could be used as my home network?

Does anyone know if MoCa products like switches, NICs and routers are planned for consumers or is this stuff really for providers like Verizon?

Sounds like great stuff, won't have to worry about rewiring the house with Cat5.

Hmmm... not sure I can answer that one. Haven't seen a coax network connection for computer. In my case, the coax goes from ONT to router. I'm cat5/wireless to all computers from the router. All of my STBs though also show up with an IP address in the router and their only connection to this router is through coax through the ONT.

EDIT: Ahhh... sorry guys... got lost in the postings - now I see what you are looking to do.

The guy that installed mine said that, in his opinion, coax to the router from the ONT, was better than cat5. And it wasn't a case of him trying not to run the cat5, because I already had a conduit that it could have easily run through.

Not as much a matter of convienience as much as provisioning. On an install that uses a 612 ONT, the data portion is already provisioned on the coax port and not the ethernet port. It can be a hassle to change to the ethernet port so most techs will just use the coax. Since most homes are wired with coax already and few have cat5 runs, it is definitely much easier (not really "better")

If I got another ActionTec router, is it possible (settings wise) to use it as only an ethernet adapter/switch? I looked through the settings last night and couldn't see how to turn off routing.

If I got another ActionTec router, is it possible (settings wise) to use it as only an ethernet adapter/switch? I looked through the settings last night and couldn't see how to turn off routing.

If you have another router, you need to hang the Actiontec off of your primary router using a patch cable to connect the two using a LAN port on your primary and a LAN port on the Actiontec. Assign a static IP to the Actiontec and turn off DHCP. That's what I have done with with the Verizon provided Dlink wireless router. It's basically daisy chaining your routers.

If I got another ActionTec router, is it possible (settings wise) to use it as only an ethernet adapter/switch? I looked through the settings last night and couldn't see how to turn off routing.

Just curious. Why would you get another router? Why couldn't you just get a switch to enable additional ports.

Just curious. Why would you get another router? Why couldn't you just get a switch to enable additional ports.



It's possible he wants to do what I want to do and use it for home networking. If it could be used solely as a switch it could be connected to a coax jack on another floor in the house and a PC could get online using it. This would eliminate the need to run Cat5 through the house or use wireless.

Maybe?

It's possible he wants to do what I want to do and use it for home networking. If it could be used solely as a switch it could be connected to a coax jack on another floor in the house and a PC could get online using it. This would eliminate the need to run Cat5 through the house or use wireless.

Maybe?


Exactly. I don't want the routers side by side, I just want to use it as a MoCA coax bridge to my (far, far away) entertainment center (in place of wireless).

The connections are all there to make me think it's possible. It's just a matter of if ActionTec/Verizon have enabled all the configuration options to make it work.

ActionTec and Linksys both have certified products that would make this simpler, but apparently, they don't want to sell them.

I've actually been trying (unsuccessfully so far) to daisy chain my Linksys WRT54G to my Actiontec router solely because I have a huge number of advanced configuration settings in there that I'm not looking forward to duplicating on a new system that I'm not familiar with. I can't even figure out how to set up port forwarding in the same way on the Actiontec. I was actually really annoyed that they gave me a combo modem/router (I wasn't home; my wife was), I figured it would be a modem with a separate router that I could then just clone the MAC off of and replace with my Linksys.

Anyway, I have another TV-related question - I have the HD-DVR, and it doesn't look like there's a "pass-through" mode on the Motorola STB, is there? The scaling it's doing on 720p content seems quite bad - 720p channels look noticeably worse to me than 1080i channels. (I suppose that could just be watching 720p content on a 1080p TV, but I'm seeing actual artifacts, not just a softer image.)

Also, I can't seem to bring up the options menu to even change this - I'm following the instructions in the manual (STB off, TV on) but nothing happens when I press the button. Is it because I'm connected via HDMI? Do I need to use component? I'm wondering if it's an HDCP handshake thing when the STB is off.

Anyway, I have another TV-related question - I have the HD-DVR, and it doesn't look like there's a "pass-through" mode on the Motorola STB, is there?No.Also, I can't seem to bring up the options menu to even change this - I'm following the instructions in the manual (STB off, TV on) but nothing happens when I press the button. Is it because I'm connected via HDMI? Do I need to use component? I'm wondering if it's an HDCP handshake thing when the STB is off.I can bring up the menu connected via HDMI. However, if anything is being recorded the menu won't come up for me.

Probably a stupid question bur one I need to have answered if I was to switch to FIOS over Directtv hd. Is their a FIOS STB that allows for dolby 5.1 surround sound via the HDMI cable? Or if you don't have a HDMI switchable A/V do you have to use component for 5.1 playback ?

The scaling it's doing on 720p content seems quite bad - 720p channels look noticeably worse to me than 1080i channels. (I suppose that could just be watching 720p content on a 1080p TV, but I'm seeing actual artifacts, not just a softer image.)

Also, I can't seem to bring up the options menu to even change this - I'm following the instructions in the manual (STB off, TV on) but nothing happens when I press the button. Is it because I'm connected via HDMI? Do I need to use component? I'm wondering if it's an HDCP handshake thing when the STB is off.

Sometimes you need to hit the "menu" button just a quick press and then wait for the tv to scale the stb output - probably 480i. It was frustrating to me at first then the install guy told me about the "quick button" trick. YMMV.

I too see the artifacts on the 720P content but only on shows that are not "live". Shows like American Idol (Fox), etc are razor sharp. Shows like "24" contain all kinds of muddiness (noise). I had this with Cox also, but this is much more extreme. The good stuff is REALLY good and the not so good stuff can be bad. The ESPN live stuff is all razor sharp. ABC stuff like Grey's Anatomy are also very good. At this point, I'm figuring its the content much less than what the box may be doing. Granted if there was a pass-thru mode, the bad 720P stuff may be better (let my panel scale) but unfortunately, we have what we have.

Probably a stupid question bur one I need to have answered if I was to switch to FIOS over Directtv hd. Is their a FIOS STB that allows for dolby 5.1 surround sound via the HDMI cable? Or if you don't have a HDMI switchable A/V do you have to use component for 5.1 playback ?

Im not sure I follow.
Yes the moto HD box will pass 5.1 through HDMI, you can also use an optical cable to you receiver for sound and HDMI to your display for video.

explain your setup a bit better and we can help you better im sure, but there are many ways to get 5.1 audio while using any of the video connections.

Thanks Ronin, You answered my question. Right now, I have Directtv HR-10-250 STB and run the HDMI directly into my TV for video and use Toslink Optical to the receiver.

Thanks Ronin, You answered my question. Right now, I have Directtv HR-10-250 STB and run the HDMI directly into my TV for video and use Toslink Optical to the receiver.

I had the HR 10-250 and now have the Verizon 6200 HD STB. It passes the 5.1 perfectly through HDMI, just like the 10-250 did.

Sometimes you need to hit the "menu" button just a quick press and then wait for the tv to scale the stb output - probably 480i. It was frustrating to me at first then the install guy told me about the "quick button" trick. YMMV.

Thanks, I'll try that.

I too see the artifacts on the 720P content but only on shows that are not "live". Shows like American Idol (Fox), etc are razor sharp. Shows like "24" contain all kinds of muddiness (noise). I had this with Cox also, but this is much more extreme. The good stuff is REALLY good and the not so good stuff can be bad. The ESPN live stuff is all razor sharp. ABC stuff like Grey's Anatomy are also very good. At this point, I'm figuring its the content much less than what the box may be doing. Granted if there was a pass-thru mode, the bad 720P stuff may be better (let my panel scale) but unfortunately, we have what we have.

Well the odd thing is American Idol is one of the shows I thought looked pretty bad. All sorts of artifacting during the animated titles and whatnot, then the picture during the show is really soft, and I can see ringing artifacts around peoples' eyes and other facial features. Though honestly, I've only watched it as a recorded show - why would that matter? This box doesn't compress saved shows, does it? Does Verizon do much of anything to the HD signal? Rate shaping or anything like that?

LOST looked pretty good and it's 720p, just seemed a little soft, so maybe it's not the box. But AI looks like an upconvert, which I know from reading other boards here it isn't. There is a lot going on in terms of color, lighting and movement, though, so I still think it could be the scaling that the box is doing.

The stuff I've watched on HDNet and CBS looks great, so 1080i content seems to be no problem.

Unfortunately for me, I upgraded my TV on the same day I upgraded to FIOS, so I can't easily eliminate one or the other as the culprit.

Thanks, I'll try that.



Well the odd thing is American Idol is one of the shows I thought looked pretty bad. All sorts of artifacting during the animated titles and whatnot, then the picture during the show is really soft, and I can see ringing artifacts around peoples' eyes and other facial features. Though honestly, I've only watched it as a recorded show - why would that matter? This box doesn't compress saved shows, does it? Does Verizon do much of anything to the HD signal? Rate shaping or anything like that?

LOST looked pretty good and it's 720p, just seemed a little soft, so maybe it's not the box. But AI looks like an upconvert, which I know from reading other boards here it isn't. There is a lot going on in terms of color, lighting and movement, though, so I still think it could be the scaling that the box is doing.

The stuff I've watched on HDNet and CBS looks great, so 1080i content seems to be no problem.

Unfortunately for me, I upgraded my TV on the same day I upgraded to FIOS, so I can't easily eliminate one or the other as the culprit.

Have you calibrated your set? For the box, you can record the HDNet patterns and use them or calibrate your DVD player and adjust by eye.

Thanks, I'll try that.



Well the odd thing is American Idol is one of the shows I thought looked pretty bad. All sorts of artifacting during the animated titles and whatnot, then the picture during the show is really soft, and I can see ringing artifacts around peoples' eyes and other facial features. Though honestly, I've only watched it as a recorded show - why would that matter? This box doesn't compress saved shows, does it? Does Verizon do much of anything to the HD signal? Rate shaping or anything like that?

LOST looked pretty good and it's 720p, just seemed a little soft, so maybe it's not the box. But AI looks like an upconvert, which I know from reading other boards here it isn't. There is a lot going on in terms of color, lighting and movement, though, so I still think it could be the scaling that the box is doing.

The stuff I've watched on HDNet and CBS looks great, so 1080i content seems to be no problem.

Unfortunately for me, I upgraded my TV on the same day I upgraded to FIOS, so I can't easily eliminate one or the other as the culprit.

I guess you have to wonder what the local affiliates are doing to the signal if anything. To me - AI was very clean - titles and all. Sometimes the 5.1 is a bit off but last wednesday it was very good for a change. There may be something to the panel calibration that could be effecting you but when some shows are razor and some are not - I have a hard time blaming the panel. To me "24" looks like an upconvert. Plenty of posterization and mosquito noise. The whole thing just looks "magnified" for lack of a better way to describe it. I've recorded both and they look exactly the same as "live" so I don't think recording has anything to do with it.

When does HDNET broadcast the colorbar screens?

I guess you have to wonder what the local affiliates are doing to the signal if anything. To me - AI was very clean - titles and all. Sometimes the 5.1 is a bit off but last wednesday it was very good for a change. There may be something to the panel calibration that could be effecting you but when some shows are razor and some are not - I have a hard time blaming the panel. To me "24" looks like an upconvert. Plenty of posterization and mosquito noise. The whole thing just looks "magnified" for lack of a better way to describe it. I've recorded both and they look exactly the same as "live" so I don't think recording has anything to do with it.

When does HDNET broadcast the colorbar screens?

Sunday's at 6:50 am EST except for 3/11 when it is at 5:50 (due to savings time shift probably)

Alright, a little more weirdness.

I have the Westy 42" 1080p LCD. I had connected the FIOS HD-DVR via HDMI because the whole point of me buying this TV was that I wanted 1:1 pixel mapping. But I felt like the colors all looked washed out no matter what I did (backlight to 0, brightness way down, contrast up), so just for the heck of it I tried component tonight. Big difference! Blacks look blacker and colors don't seem washed out anymore even on the default settings. I switched back and forth between HDMI and component, and it looks like there's almost a "fog" that appears on the HDMI input *after* the HDCP handshake (it happens right after the "no input detected" message goes away and right before the picture appears).

The downside is I see a bit more artifacting over component and the picture doesn't look quite as sharp. But I'm willing to live with it for the overall richer picture.

But I guess my question is, has anyone else noticed this with the Motorola DVR? I *think* it is actually the STB and probably not my TV this time, because the greyish fog only appears long after selecting the HDMI input and just before the picture. If I have a defective box, I'll just call Verizon and get another one. I'd still rather use HDMI if I can get rid of the washed out look, but if this is just the way these boxes are, I'll stick with component.

Alright, a little more weirdness.

I have the Westy 42" 1080p LCD. I had connected the FIOS HD-DVR via HDMI because the whole point of me buying this TV was that I wanted 1:1 pixel mapping. But I felt like the colors all looked washed out no matter what I did (backlight to 0, brightness way down, contrast up), so just for the heck of it I tried component tonight. Big difference! Blacks look blacker and colors don't seem washed out anymore even on the default settings. I switched back and forth between HDMI and component, and it looks like there's almost a "fog" that appears on the HDMI input *after* the HDCP handshake (it happens right after the "no input detected" message goes away and right before the picture appears).

The downside is I see a bit more artifacting over component and the picture doesn't look quite as sharp. But I'm willing to live with it for the overall richer picture.

But I guess my question is, has anyone else noticed this with the Motorola DVR? I *think* it is actually the STB and probably not my TV this time, because the greyish fog only appears long after selecting the HDMI input and just before the picture. If I have a defective box, I'll just call Verizon and get another one. I'd still rather use HDMI if I can get rid of the washed out look, but if this is just the way these boxes are, I'll stick with component.

I went back to Component for a similar reason. I don't see the fogginess on HDMI, I see a lot of posterization - especially on the 720P channels. 1080i is better. But as you found, the component connections are best. The only problem I have with component is that sometimes - on DiscoveryHD and MHD (as well as a few others), my Pioneer panel will cycle in and out of a resolution that it synced in with. It only happens when these channels get a quick little commercial on the bottom of the screen - its slides in - my panel panics for a second or two - and then all is fine. This does not happen at all in HDMI. I used Cox for years and never had this issue with the component inputs so I'm figuring its getting some kind of odd signal when these commercials happen at the bottom of the screen. I'm finding its all a compromise - set it up the way it works best for you. Not sure what Verizon can do??? I haven't called them on it yet though - not sure I'm willing to pay for a service call (which I assume I have to do)!

While I do agree there is a difference in colors between the Component and HDMI outputs. I personally think that component looks over saturated and almost "cartoon like" while HDMI looks more lifelike. Look at the grass on HD football game, to me it looks like it was colored in with a crayon. I think HDMI looks more natural, but it does have less of a wow factor at first.

So from the sounds of it there is some type of problem with HDMI output on the DVRs. Disappointing at best. Something I hope will be addressed soon, and just ignored and pretend it doen't exist.

While I do agree there is a difference in colors between the Component and HDMI outputs. I personally think that component looks over saturated and almost "cartoon like" while HDMI looks more lifelike. Look at the grass on HD football game, to me it looks like it was colored in with a crayon. I think HDMI looks more natural, but it does have less of a wow factor at first.

I went back and forth doing A/B comparisons a whole bunch of times last night trying to convince myself of that. And on certain types of scenes, I think it's true. But ever since getting FIOS connected and hooking it up to my new TV, I've been pretty displeased with the black level and it turns out the component connection doesn't have the same problem. If I didn't actually see that moment of grey fog right before the picture appears, I could probably have convinced myself that HDMI was just a bit brighter and lower in contrast for whatever reason. But it's like that grey fog/film is overlaying everything and washing it out.

I'm also coming from an HD CRT, which I still have upstairs (it's now our bedroom TV). The component connection definitely looks closer to the picture on our CRT. I don't know if that's more or less accurate, although most people say CRT's generally have a better (just less detailed) overall picture than LCD's. Either way, it's what we're used to watching.

But I'm glad to know that it's not just my box and not just my TV; sounds like whatever your preference, other people have noticed a similar difference between component and HDMI with this DVR. Kind of disappointing as I really do want to use HDMI, but I'll live with it. I'm sure I'll find some kind of use for that HDMI input somewhere down the line.

Quick edit: I've gotten my HDMI input to look really close to component now by cranking up the contrast to at least 85 and lowering the brightness way down on my TV. It's not quite the same, and clearly it's almost to the limit of my TV's settings, but it looks good enough that I'll probably keep using HDMI again. I still think the adjustments I had to make are pretty unreasonable, though.

Has anyone sued the Linksys wireless router with the FiOS router. If so, how do you hook them up. I need the wireless for the other computers around the house which all have linksys wireless cards. Thanks.

Has anyone used the Linksys wireless router with the FiOS router. If so, how do you hook them up. I need the wireless for the other computers around the house which all have linksys wireless cards. Thanks.
Just connect the Linksys to one of the FIOS router ports.

Has anyone sued the Linksys wireless router with the FiOS router. If so, how do you hook them up. I need the wireless for the other computers around the house which all have linksys wireless cards. Thanks.

It sounds like you are operating under the assumption that you have to use the Linksys cards with the Linksys router. That is not true, they will work with any router. I am currently using two Linksys USB adapters in desktops, one D-Link wireless card installed in a desktop and one preinstalled IBM wireless card in a HP laptop, all with the Actiontec router and all work great. I get a strong signal everywhere, and usually test out at around 13mb download speed.

anyone have a vizio VX32L and FiOS? the vizio remote control codes verizon supplies don't work. will they update remote codes in the future? thanks.

I decided to switch from a combo of Cox for Internet and DirecTV for Tivo/TV to FIOS recently and I'm regretting the switch.

1) When they installed the fiber cable from the curb to the house, they plowed through the in-ground Cox cable so I didn't have Internet access until the FIOS was up and running (three days).
I guess they were trying to improve their chances that I stayed with FIOS since I couldn't switch back to Cox very easily. Nice move.

2) The install took a few extra hours because the tech didn't realize that the fiber from the curb (the one that had just been installed) had a break in it and so he finally installed a temp one over the ground to get the service up.

3) Ever since the FIOS was installed, my phone line has been acting strangely. I pick up a phone in the house and I will occasionally get a "fast-busy" signal. Or if I try to call home from work, I hear the phone ring and ring (I have an answering machine) and no one answers. I call back to my wife's cell and she says "No, I didn't hear the phone ring". Verizon has done line tests and found "nothing wrong." They initially blamed my cordless phones! Of course, I tested the phone while the installer was at the house and it worked then. But this is one of those amusing problems that comes and goes.

4) I have the 6416 box (with the Multi-room feature) in one room and an STB in the family room and one in the bedroom. I had the 6416 box reboot on me twice while using it and the bedroom STB has rebooted out of the blue once as well. This morning I tried to access recorded shows from the bedroom and I didn't see "Recorded TV" on the menu. I pressed the DVR button on the remote and I saw a message on the screen "This can only be used on a DVR. To order call...." What??? Usually, I get the "Recorded TV" menu. I went downstairs to the DVR to check if it was working and it was currently recording two shows. That shouldn't be a problem so I checked the menu on the family room TV and now it shows the "Recorded TV" option. I then rechecked in the bedroom and now that STB shows the "Recorded TV" option. I feel like I am debugging their system for them! I guess you have to leave the DVR unit on if its recording two shows and you want to watch another recorded show on a STB. Nice feature. They need to put that in their manual.

5) The FIOS DVR functionality is WAYYYYY behind Tivo. The Rewind/Fast forward feature is not smooth at all. With Tivo, I can record a show with a lot of dialogue, turn on close captioning, run it at 3x speed and still read the dialogue. (My time is limited) The FIOS box just skips entire frames so this is not possible. Also, I was trying to fast-forward through a three hour show the other night and at about the two hour mark, FIOS decided to skip me back to ten minutes from the start of the show. This happened twice! Very annoying. Especially since there isn't a skip 15 minutes option like with Tivo. You have to turn on FF3 or FF4 and pray it doesn't skip back to the beginning again.

So I'm thinking of using the 30 day money-back option because I'm spending more time figuring out their system and calling the 1-888 number then using the TV.

Oh, and I tried the MediaManager feature and it took me two hours to get the DVR to recognize that the service was running on my PC. And no, it wasn't due to a firewall setting or anything like that. It was just a matter of retrying and retrying until the DVR "saw" the PC on the network.

I see posts about a possible software upgrade to FIOS. They need it!!!

And one more thing, with Tivo, I can order a movie from PPV and record it. Then I can watch it when I want. Sometimes, weeks later. With FIOS, you can't do that. You buy a movie from VOD but you only have one day to watch it. Not as flexible.

5) The FIOS DVR functionality is WAYYYYY behind Tivo. The Rewind/Fast forward feature is not smooth at all. With Tivo, I can record a show with a lot of dialogue, turn on close captioning, run it at 3x speed and still read the dialogue. (My time is limited) The FIOS box just skips entire frames so this is not possible. Also, I was trying to fast-forward through a three hour show the other night and at about the two hour mark, FIOS decided to skip me back to ten minutes from the start of the show. This happened twice! Very annoying. Especially since there isn't a skip 15 minutes option like with Tivo. You have to turn on FF3 or FF4 and pray it doesn't skip back to the beginning again.To be fair, the usability of every cable/satellite platform is well-behind Tivo.

The Tivo Series3 is available for use with FiOS, but you may want to see how the upcoming STB/DVR software upgrade works first.

And one more thing, with Tivo, I can order a movie from PPV and record it. Then I can watch it when I want. Sometimes, weeks later. With FIOS, you can't do that. You buy a movie from VOD but you only have one day to watch it. Not as flexible.True. However, consider that with DirecTV, you've got to order the PPV and record it because you can't pick the exact showtime you want. They only show certain programs at certain times, so if you want to see that program, you have no choice but to record it. With FiOS, every program is available at every minute of every day, so there is no reason to buy it until you actually have the time to sit down and watch it.

There's also plenty of free video-on-demand available that you don't get with DirecTV. And if you subscribe to a premium package like HBO, all of those series are available for viewing at any minute of any day.

I've been informed that I'll be able to subscribe to Verizon FiOS in the next 2 months. When we built this house in 2001 we installed the "Verizon Advanced Wiring System" (see pictures below). I was wondering what advantages (if any) this might give me in terms of TV and Internet. When they come to install I want to get this hooked up so I can take maximum advantage of this system. Also, what should I know about using this system to set up WiFi and other home networking/video transfer options. As an FYI the central panel is about 8 feet from the external wall in a utility closet so there are no obtructions between it and the external place were FiOS will enter.

Thank you all very much.

FIOS will distribute both the video and IP traffic along the wiring you already have - which may speed the install process. Just set aside a 2ft x 2ft wall space for the ONT + power supply.
Since you have CAT5 wiring going just about everywhere don't worry about WiFi - use wired connections as much as possible. For the odd laptop, the Actiontec router's WiFi capability should suffice.

FYI - I read an article on CNET yesterday
Multiple flaws in commonly used technical support tools can open Windows PCs to cyberattack, security experts have warned.

http://news.com.com/Flaws+in+tech+support+tools+open+PCs+to+attack/2100-1002_3-6162278

I found that this affects the FIOS community.
Scanning my system, I found two .dlls stated in the article, are used by Verizon
( located in C:\Program Files\Verizon\Fios\bin )
tgctlsi.dll and sdnetcheck.dll

Here is where to find the patch
http://www.supportsoft.com/support/controls_update.asp

FYI - I read an article on CNET yesterday
Multiple flaws in commonly used technical support tools can open Windows PCs to cyberattack, security experts have warned.

http://news.com.com/Flaws+in+tech+support+tools+open+PCs+to+attack/2100-1002_3-6162278

I found that this affects the FIOS community.
Scanning my system, I found two .dlls stated in the article, are used by Verizon
( located in C:\Program Files\Verizon\Fios\bin )
tgctlsi.dll and sdnetcheck.dll

Here is where to find the patch
http://www.supportsoft.com/support/controls_update.asp
What's this Fios software you speak of? I didn't let them install anything on my PC... no need to, everything worked as soon as I plugged into the router.

I've been informed that I'll be able to subscribe to Verizon FiOS in the next 2 months. When we built this house in 2001 we installed the "Verizon Advanced Wiring System" (see pictures below). I was wondering what advantages (if any) this might give me in terms of TV and Internet. When they come to install I want to get this hooked up so I can take maximum advantage of this system. Also, what should I know about using this system to set up WiFi and other home networking/video transfer options.

Just FYI, Verizon will hook up three rooms with a regular install; they'll do more for $19.95 each. That's regardless of whether or not the room is already wired. I suppose your installer might individually decide to help you out if you're already wired up, though, and not charge extra.

I wouldn't worry about taking "maximum advantage" of your system. Verizon's gonna do whatever they have to do, and everybody ends up with the same setup one way or another. I'm sure your installer will be happy to see your house is pre-wired, but even if it wasn't, they'll install whatever wire they have to. They went up on my roof and put wires all over the place (though they hid them better than my old cable wires, so in the end, it was a visual improvement). They went into the basement and removed my old tangle of cable wires and installed all new coax.

They spend however much time is necessary. They told me originally that they would be here 4-6 hours. On the day of my install, the installer called and said he could either come later with 2 guys and get it done in 3 hours or he could have one guy come over and be here "all day". So they're not pressed for time. They're more interested in making the investment required to have your house permanently set up to use their service; I'm sure it makes good business sense long-term.

Just FYI, Verizon will hook up three rooms with a regular install; they'll do more for $19.95 each. That's regardless of whether or not the room is already wired.I don't think that's correct for the extra rooms. (For the first three, yes.) The pricing I saw was $19.95 for prewired rooms beyond the first three, or $54.95 (IIRC) for rooms they had to wire.

Well, Verizon installer while he was here, accessed a Verizon web site to assist in configuring the system. As a result, I found the files in question in at:

C:\Program Files\Verizon\FIOS

When viewing Add and Remove Programs, I find two applications:
Verizon FIOS Activation
Verizon Online Help and Support

Well, Verizon installer while he was here, accessed a Verizon web site to assist in configuring the system. As a result, I found the files in question in at:

C:\Program Files\Verizon\FIOS

When viewing Add and Remove Programs, I find two applications:
Verizon FIOS Activation
Verizon Online Help and Support

Just remove them, there is no need for Verizon to install anything on your PC.

I hope that someone on this forum can help me figure out my problem. I have been on FIOS TV since October and everything was fine until about 1 month ago. All of a sudden,

- my picture was gettingpixelated (Real bad) to the point that you could not recognize anything on the screen. That was happening on HD and non HD sets.

They came in, replaced the ONT, and everything seemed ok for a short while(a few days), then the screen on my HDTV started freezing, leaving the audio of the show running, but the still image left on my screen.

Verizon came back, replaced the ONT again, replaced my DVR BOX, ran a Homerun from the HDTV to the ONT, replaced the Drop from the main line, to my house, and replaced all the splitters, and just recently, replaced the router.

We are still having a problem, and Verizon does not know what it could be.

Anybody have an idea?

I love the service in general, and would hate to go back to Cablevision

Thanks in advance,

Dave

I hope that someone on this forum can help me figure out my problem. I have been on FIOS TV since October and everything was fine until about 1 month ago. All of a sudden,

- my picture was gettingpixelated (Real bad) to the point that you could not recognize anything on the screen. That was happening on HD and non HD sets.

They came in, replaced the ONT, and everything seemed ok for a short while(a few days), then the screen on my HDTV started freezing, leaving the audio of the show running, but the still image left on my screen.

Verizon came back, replaced the ONT again, replaced my DVR BOX, ran a Homerun from the HDTV to the ONT, replaced the Drop from the main line, to my house, and replaced all the splitters, and just recently, replaced the router.

We are still having a problem, and Verizon does not know what it could be.

Anybody have an idea?

I love the service in general, and would hate to go back to Cablevision

Thanks in advance,

Dave

Just keep on them. It's obviously a problem with the fiber distribution lines running to your property, and they should be able to trace it and repair it. I seriously doubt that anyone on the forum can be of any help. This is a Verizon issue.

Good luck.

FIOS will distribute both the video and IP traffic along the wiring you already have - which may speed the install process. Just set aside a 2ft x 2ft wall space for the ONT + power supply.
Since you have CAT5 wiring going just about everywhere don't worry about WiFi - use wired connections as much as possible. For the odd laptop, the Actiontec router's WiFi capability should suffice.

Biker19 & BadAssCat:
Thank you for the response and input. I thought I'd be in good shape and just didn't want to miss out on anything. Biker19 - for the Actiontec router - should that be installed next to my desk top or is there some advantage to installing it near the distribution panel?

Thanks again
Zebras23

Biker19 & BadAssCat:
Thank you for the response and input. I thought I'd be in good shape and just didn't want to miss out on anything. Biker19 - for the Actiontec router - should that be installed next to my desk top or is there some advantage to installing it near the distribution panel?

Thanks again
Zebras23

I have mine located inside a structured wiring panel. Of course I also have a wired network to that panel and it all works out nicely. I also just moved to voicewing VOIP and I installed a phone block and the phone adapter in there as well. Keeps things nice and tidy and out of sight.

I have mine located inside a structured wiring panel. Of course I also have a wired network to that panel and it all works out nicely. I also just moved to voicewing VOIP and I installed a phone block and the phone adapter in there as well. Keeps things nice and tidy and out of sight.

Thanks. I'd love to see a picture or drawing of what you've done if you get a chance.

Zebras23

Thanks. I'd love to see a picture or drawing of what you've done if you get a chance.

Zebras23

well let me go take one. I will post in a few.

well let me go take one. I will post in a few.
Ok here it is.

If you ever plan to use the WiFi features of the Actiontec, don't install it next to any metal - it will reduce the range.

If you ever plan to use the WiFi features of the Actiontec, don't install it next to any metal - it will reduce the range.

I havent had any problems and I see all my nieghbors networks too.

Ok here it is.

My knowledge of internet/networking connections is very limited and I apologize for hijacking the thread somewhat. Is that router for all of your computers? Is it provided by Verizon? I currently have Comcast and they provided a motorola router next the desktop, is what you have different from that? If not from Verizon where did you get it?

Many thanks
Zebras23

Good luck - the chances of such a set being available are pretty slim. (referring to small tv's with cablecard)


Just joined this thread. I've been yelling about this on other forums for a while. The tv's that would MOST benefit from cablecards - the smaller sizes for bedrooms, kitchens etc. where space is a major issue - are not available. The only reason, albeit a suspect reason, is the additional cost. "Uninformed" people may not be willing to pay an extra $100 or whatever for a "small" (read: cheap) tv. The smallest Sony with a cablecard is is 26"and costs close to $1700.00. If a decent
17" -23" tv with cablecard comes along at a reasonable price , I would jump on it.

My knowledge of internet/networking connections is very limited and I apologize for hijacking the thread somewhat. Is that router for all of your computers? Is it provided by Verizon? I currently have Comcast and they provided a motorola router next the desktop, is what you have different from that? If not from Verizon where did you get it?

Many thanks
Zebras23

Yes that is the Actiontec router that Verizon supplies and yes that is where I run all my runs of Cat5e back to from everything I have networked. There is a run of Cat5e from the ONT into this pannel as well. All of this I set up and ran myself.

My knowledge of internet/networking connections is very limited and I apologize for hijacking the thread somewhat. Is that router for all of your computers? Is it provided by Verizon? I currently have Comcast and they provided a motorola router next the desktop, is what you have different from that? If not from Verizon where did you get it?

Many thanks
Zebras23

the Actiontec router is provided by Verizon. it can be configured for Ethernet(Cat5) or Coax WAN connection(mine uses Coax from the ONT, my computer is connected to the router by Cat5). the router has a total of 4 Cat5 ports for LAN networking as well as WiFi capability.


Jim

I havent had any problems and I see all my neighbors networks too.
WiFi range is very site specific. The other thing is that the speed drops off with signal strength - it could very well work but at limited throughput.

WiFi range is very site specific. The other thing is that the speed drops off with signal strength - it could very well work but at limited throughput.

Throughput seems to be fine and as far as I can tell there is no problem with the Actiontec router being housed in my leviton structured media panel. Your miliage may vary depending upon your particular application.

Throughput seems to be fine and as far as I can tell there is no problem with the Actiontec router being housed in my leviton structured media panel. Your miliage may vary depending upon your particular application.

Again - many. many thanks to all. Do I have to request a "wifi" router or is it standard or is their an additional cost for it?

Again - many. many thanks to all. Do I have to request a "wifi" router or is it standard or is their an additional cost for it?


Standard equipment.

Just got FIOS TV and Phone installed on Friday and wanted to share my experience. Switching from DirecTV to FIOS TV and from MCI to the FIOS phone. Installation did not go as planned. I'd appreciate any advice about anything I could have done differently.

First, the good: the PQ is outstanding through HD-DVRs. And altho I am a long-time Tivo user, I think the Verizon DVR is on its way to being comparable. Also, the installation tech who did the work on site was extremely courteous and helpful. Even helped me lift my new Sony Bravia LCD into the cabinet.

Now, as for the problems:

the tech knew nothing about a phone order when he arrived. He was only here to do the TV (even though I ordered both at the same time). When I called Verizon to work this out, no one could find my original order. Then, in the midst of this, my phone dropped dead. Turns out MCI shut us off, as the switch was made to Verizon. I called Verizon from my cell and promptly got moved around and put on hold by a succession of 8 agents who tried to figure out what was going on. After promises of a dial tone and call backs, nothing happened through the weekend. I have had no dial tone in the house since 10am Friday. I did unscrew the NID and plugged into the outside jack and got a dial tone via the copper. Now I have a line snaked into the house from the NID so I can use the phone in the house. I finally got a work order to have a copper tech come out on Wednesday (!) to get the jacks inside the house working again.

I was told this morning that the switchover from MCI copper to Verizon copper must happen first before Verizon can switch the copper to FIOS. Of course, no one explained that to me up front and I spent several HOURS on my cell phone this weekend trying to figure out what was wrong.

Also, Verizon thinks the install tech did something to the phone wire that caused the loss of the interior jacks. He claims however that he didn't touch the phone and only did the TV install.

The CS reps were either extremely lost or extremely rude, depending which I talked to. No one knew what the problem was or how to fix it. After spending several hours on the phone with these people, I'm really looking for some kind of credit or adjustment to make up for the aggravation. I NEVER went through this with DirecTV (or any other service company, for that matter).

On the TV side, I ordered the HD-DVR with Home Media Manager and a separate STB in the bedroom to stream programs from the HD-DVR downstairs. Altho the upstairs TV is SD, I was told I needed an HD receiver to work with the Home Media Manager. This turns out not to work. I receive live programs fine upstairs, but the box does not see any recordings from the downstairs DVR. So, I suspect I need a different STB upstairs that works with Home Media Mgr. Also, it looks like you cannot stream HD recordings, altho the phone reps say otherwise.

After more back and forth with Verizon today, I convinced them to swap the upstairs HD recvr with a HD-DVR and drop the Home Media Manager altogether (we're a Mac house, so we can't transfer photos etc via Verizon anyway). A separate tech should be coming out Wednesday to swap the boxes. I won't be surprised if some separate install charge shows up on my first bill for this, which I will then have to spend more time on hold trying to argue with CS reps.

I realize these forums tend to attract "problems" and I'd prefer that my first post didn't read this way. But this entire experience with Verizon's CS reps has been a painful use of time over these past 72 hours.

Thank goodness the PQ balances out the aggravation. Almost.

On the TV side, I ordered the HD-DVR with Home Media Manager and a separate STB in the bedroom to stream programs from the HD-DVR downstairs. Altho the upstairs TV is SD, I was told I needed an HD receiver to work with the Home Media Manager. This turns out not to work. I receive live programs fine upstairs, but the box does not see any recordings from the downstairs DVR. So, I suspect I need a different STB upstairs that works with Home Media Mgr. Also, it looks like you cannot stream HD recordings, altho the phone reps say otherwise.



Currently, only the 2500 STB (SD receiver) is able to act as a client for the Media Manager.

The Media Server is the 6416 which is a HD DVR STB

I've had FIOS phone and Internet for over a year now (I have Verizon copper and DSL before). I have had the TV since December, when I cancelled my Comcast. I haven't had any issues, and picture quality beats the pants off Comcast.
Today, I came home to find a Comcast Digital Cable Self-Install Kit sitting on my porch. It was addressed to me, with my name, address, and phone number on the box. I spent two hours on the phone with Comcast (where my account has been closed since mid-December), speaking to at least 5 different reps, trying to find out why the sent me a box, and how they assigned new equipment to a closed account. They couldn't answer me, but they wanted me to spend two hours (at least) of my time driving out to their office to return it.
I told them I wasn't going to waste any of my own time or gas money to return equipment I never asked for, never wanted, and for which they have no order in their system. They agreed to send out a technician to pick up the box.

Once again, I'm so glad I switched to FIOS TV!

And altho I am a long-time Tivo user, I think the Verizon DVR is on its way to being comparable.

I came from a Dish 921 DVR and think the Motorola 6416 DVR functions are sluggish. Isn't everyone experiencing this? I have 2 boxes that react identically and assumed it was a Verizon or Motorola problem.

Pete

I was watching OCC today on Discovery HD which started about Noon CST...I receive a business call approximately two minutes into the show so I pause. Eleven minutes later I continue my show for approx. 4 minutes...All of a sudden I hear a 1K tone in my right speaker as my TV adjusts to some new resolution. The monthly test of the emergency broadcast system appears which is understandable, so that goes on for the next fifteen seconds and then I am taken back to my program but not back to where I was but back to live tv. I then try to rewind back to my previous mark and to my surprise it only has 30 seconds stored in buffer. WTH?

I wouldn't be so upset if the episode I was watching was a rerun but its one that I haven't seen....

Anyone else experienced this?

I came from a Dish 921 DVR and think the Motorola 6416 DVR functions are sluggish. Isn't everyone experiencing this?

TiVo is at least as bad, which is what the poster you're replying to was comparing to. I was a series 2 owner and it would often take 2-3 seconds to register a button press. It's actually one of the reasons I dumped TiVo. I haven't tried the series 3 but others around here have said it's pretty much the same.

The Verizon Motorola box is comparable with TiVo in responsiveness. It's not great, but it's not the worst I've used either - that would have to go to my Cablevision SA8300HD. I don't have experience with the Dish DVR so I don't know how fast it is in comparison. I do know that most manufacturers put the bare minimum processing power in these things to do the job, and it wouldn't surprise me if the operating system gave the lowest priority to polling for remote button presses (I'd think video tasks would take the highest priority).

Anyway, my point is I doubt you're the only one experiencing sluggishness, it's just that we're all used to DVR's that are as bad or worse.

The CS reps were either extremely lost or extremely rude, depending which I talked to. No one knew what the problem was or how to fix it. After spending several hours on the phone with these people, I'm really looking for some kind of credit or adjustment to make up for the aggravation. I NEVER went through this with DirecTV (or any other service company, for that matter).

This reminds me of why I quit Verizon "for good" back when they were just a phone company. Obviously I've changed my mind at this point but 10 years ago, they screwed up a phone install order so bad that I was without a phone for nearly 6 months. We had to get the city of New York involved before they would do their job properly. First they took my order and said a guy would be out, so I took the day off from work. Nobody came. I called, got shuttled around, eventually made another appointment. Nobody came AGAIN. I called again, severely pissed off, bitched about them needing to compensate me in some way, got no results but what could I do? I needed a phone and they were "the" phone company back then. So I made another appointment.

This time they called ahead and said they couldn't install my phone because they didn't have any lines left in the building. I was like, "what?!" We had just moved in and the guy with the apt. before us had phone service, but they had "no lines left". They said the box in the building was full. I told them to install another box, we need a freakin' phone. And anyway, why didn't they tell me this before I took 2 days off from work waiting for them? They said it didn't work that way and they needed to wait for a line. Fast forward 3 more months of my roommates and I calling them from payphones nearly *every day* bitching at various people, and we finally decided to call our city councilman. The councilman wrote them a nasty letter and lo and behold, a week later we had a phone line.

As soon as I had a cell phone, I cancelled Verizon permanently. I haven't dealt with them since, until now with FiOS. Even still, I needed to be convinced - it was my wife (who didn't go through this with them) who finally convinced me to go with them when she saw they offered a local TV channel that carries Fuji TV, which Cablevision in my area didn't.

Anyway, so I see Verizon hasn't really changed much over all these years, despite the competition. They were pretty nice to me this time and the install went mostly as planned (though the installers were pretty annoying), but corporate cultures definitely have a lot of inertia.

Has anyone sued the Linksys wireless router with the FiOS router. If so, how do you hook them up. I need the wireless for the other computers around the house which all have linksys wireless cards. Thanks.
Yes. It works great. Just connect it and turn off DHCP on the Linksys.

Yes. It works great. Just connect it and turn off DHCP on the Linksys.

We could not make the Media Manager work with this configuration. The DVR could not find the PC no matter what we tried (including DHCP, firewall, ...). With my house configuration, I ended up replacing the closet Linksys with a plain switch and using the garage Actiontec for wireless access. Wireless works just a good as the Linksys did prior to that.

I just joined this forum. Excellent information here. Thanks to all!

I have had FIOS TV for 2 weeks. Wife and I love it. PQ is great. HD is incredible! Getting spoiled --- hard to watch SD now. :)

Bob

We could not make the Media Manager work with this configuration. The DVR could not find the PC no matter what we tried (including DHCP, firewall, ...). With my house configuration, I ended up replacing the closet Linksys with a plain switch and using the garage Actiontec for wireless access. Wireless works just a good as the Linksys did prior to that.

I don't have MediaManager. I just use my Linksys as Wireless Access Point to extend wireless connection to third floor of our townhouse. I get 5 bars now -- before it was 2.

I have installation of fios phone, internet, and tv scheduled for April 6. I currently have cable company (cablevision - northern NJ) tv and internet. My cable line comes in one side of the house and my phone line comes in the other. The single cable line comes into my basement and is then split to my various tvs and modem with RG-6 (all are "home runs" after the initial split). I am told that the ONT will probably be mounted outside where my existing copper phone line comes in. Questions: Are the existing copper interior phone lines connected directly to the ONT ? Will they run cat-5 from the ONT to the new router which I want next to my "main" computer or RG-6 ? How will they connect my existing RG-6 cable runs to the ONT. Are there multiple taps on the ONT or will I still need a splitter(s)? Sorry for all the questions. Thanks in advance for any help.

jimkell I'll try & answer most of your ?'s.

first of all if the utility lines in your neighborhood are buried, then Verizon will bury the fiber cable to your house. if the utilities are on poles, the fiber cable will be strung overhead(my setup, my neighborhood dates back to the 1940's).

the installer will most likely mount the ONT at or close to the existing copper phone line interface. he'll run a Cat5e cable from the ONT to the existing phone interface so the signal can be routed to your interior phone wiring. now with my install I wanted an additional phone jack in my computer room so he ran a cat5 cable along with a new coax cable because my house didn't have an existing coax or phone run to that room.

the installer will likely run coax from the ONT to the router. from the router a Cat5 cable connects to the Ethernet port on your computer. the router has wireless capability + it has 4 Ethernet ports for wired LAN connection. pretty flexible IMO.

the installers try to use existing wiring whenever possible. they're supposed to test it for signal strength & inspect the connectors and/or splitters & replace anything questionable.

I don't have the TV service yet(not available in my city for now):(. my installer told me they split the coax between the router & the TV boxes. I'll admit I'm a bit vague on this part of the install.

finally I'll mention that after a month and a half I've had NO problems-internet connection tests to spec(I've got 5Mps/2Mps) & the phone works like a charm.

hope this helps. lucky you you have the TV service already. enjoy!!!!


Jim

I have a Fios Tv install scheduled on 3-13-07. My question is Cable card or STB ? I really don't need DVR recorder and VOD. I have QAM and am able to display encrypted channels as well. How soon do you figure cable companies render CC obsolete ? With the new 2.0 CC or by blocking all new programming to cable cards.

Will the PQ be that much clearer and defined with the cable card ? Is it really worth it to save $ 9 bucks a month ? Or to get the STB and have all the interactive capability that Verizon offers.

Thanks......

jimkell I'll try & answer most of your ?'s.

first of all if the utility lines in your neighborhood are buried, then Verizon will bury the fiber cable to your house. if the utilities are on poles, the fiber cable will be strung overhead(my setup, my neighborhood dates back to the 1940's).

the installer will most likely mount the ONT at or close to the existing copper phone line interface. he'll run a Cat5e cable from the ONT to the existing phone interface so the signal can be routed to your interior phone wiring. now with my install I wanted an additional phone jack in my computer room so he ran a cat5 cable along with a new coax cable because my house didn't have an existing coax or phone run to that room.

the installer will likely run coax from the ONT to the router. from the router a Cat5 cable connects to the Ethernet port on your computer. the router has wireless capability + it has 4 Ethernet ports for wired LAN connection. pretty flexible IMO.

the installers try to use existing wiring whenever possible. they're supposed to test it for signal strength & inspect the connectors and/or splitters & replace anything questionable.

I don't have the TV service yet(not available in my city for now):(. my installer told me they split the coax between the router & the TV boxes. I'll admit I'm a bit vague on this part of the install.

finally I'll mention that after a month and a half I've had NO problems-internet connection tests to spec(I've got 5Mps/2Mps) & the phone works like a charm.

hope this helps. lucky you you have the TV service already. enjoy!!!!


Jim

Thanks alot Jim. My house was built in the 20's so obviously I have overhead wires. Also, while I have a verizon telco box outside, it feeds a "junction" that I swear must be from the 30's ! It has what I believe to be ballast resistors or something and ceramic insulation. I assume they will replace/ bypass this device.

If anyone can address the tv service questions, I would be grateful.

wow your phone junction box sounds like mine!!! my installer got it to work-unless yours is in REALLY bad shape it should work with the FiOS network as well.

Thanks alot Jim. My house was built in the 20's so obviously I have overhead wires. Also, while I have a verizon telco box outside, it feeds a "junction" that I swear must be from the 30's ! It has what I believe to be ballast resistors or something and ceramic insulation. I assume they will replace/ bypass this device.

If anyone can address the tv service questions, I would be grateful.

The way my installer did it was coax was run from the ONT to a splitter - 3 branches which went off to TVs and the fourth went to the ActionTec router. Since you are getting their TV service you will have to use the router they supply (unless your router supports a NIM for the coax and your installer has a NIM on his truck). They will run Cat5 from the ActionTec to one computer for free so they should run it to your router if you ask.

The way my installer did it was coax was run from the ONT to a splitter - 3 branches which went off to TVs and the fourth went to the ActionTec router. Since you are getting their TV service you will have to use the router they supply (unless your router supports a NIM for the coax and your installer has a NIM on his truck). They will run Cat5 from the ActionTec to one computer for free so they should run it to your router if you ask.

I would guess that he'll run a single coax inside from the ONT to my present splitter on the other side of the house and use my existing coax to the tv's and router. Makes sense. I really don't think I'll need my old router (netgear) since the actiontec appears to have the filters and email notifications needed to keep an eye on my kids. Thanks Tiyuri

Just got FIOS and have another quick question:

Does the HDDVR always keep recording even when it is not turned on? Sometimes the kids turn off the TV and the DVR at the same time. I can't tell if it ever matters if the box is on or off (except when we're watching it, of course). Thanks.

Does the HDDVR always keep recording even when it is not turned on?It will record all scheduled recordings when 'off'.

It will not maintain its buffer when 'off' (ie, you can't turn the box on and then rewind back an hour).

As long as it is plugged it it will record. It never really goes "off" in that regard.

thank you

I really don't need DVR recorder and VOD.

Will the PQ be that much clearer and defined with the cable card ? Is it really worth it to save $ 9 bucks a month ?

Thanks......
You answered your own question - if you don't need VOD, Guide, PPV, save the money - although it won't be $9 - more like $7 (9.95 for HD STB-2.95? for CC)

PQ would be about the same.

WSJ (sub required) Fios article from yesterday:
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB117322928784528977.html

According to this, the article "examines the range of features in development for Verizon's service":
http://www.cable360.net/business/operatorsmsos/22385.html

I don't have a WSJ subscription but ... those who do may find it interesting.

I have a Fios Tv install scheduled on 3-13-07. My question is Cable card or STB ? I really don't need DVR recorder and VOD. I have QAM and am able to display encrypted channels as well. How soon do you figure cable companies render CC obsolete ? With the new 2.0 CC or by blocking all new programming to cable cards.

Will the PQ be that much clearer and defined with the cable card ? Is it really worth it to save $ 9 bucks a month ? Or to get the STB and have all the interactive capability that Verizon offers.

Thanks......

I think you also lose the guide with CC. The guide is helpful. Lots of channels. But the box is ugly and bulky.

Is there a way to turn off the hard drive? It makes a bit noise and bugs my wife at night.

Is there a way to turn off the hard drive? It makes a bit noise and bugs my wife at night.

The only way would be to unplug the box. I don't think you really want to do that.

Sounds like you have a defective box and need to get it replaced.

.... or a very hearing sensitive wife.

Is there a way to turn off the hard drive? It makes a bit noise and bugs my wife at night.

On some of the other DVR models, if you tune it to a music channel and then turn it off, it stops buffering, therefore the harddrive stops spinning (usually the noise you hear). I haven't tried on the FiOS verzion yet.

My HD started to flicker today... scared the hell out of me since I thought something fried, but I set the HDMI output to 480p then back to 1080i and the flicker was gone :cool:

I just got Verizon Fios today (switched from Comcast, Maryland (Metro) area)

1. The SD picture is better than Comcast.

2. I get more premium channels than Comcast. (slightly more HBOs and Showtimes, etc.)

3. I get more channels in general than Comcast and pay less.

4. The Fios guide and everything about it sucks compared to Comcast.

5. Comcast's On Demand is wayyyy better. It has HD content and wayyyy more choices including many of my local station's shows like CSI.

6. The installation took the entire day. I initially was given the 16th as an install date but had the rep override it and give me today. They wanted time for the buried wire crew to put the fiber in the ground as opposed to having an aerial drop.

I have service and the fiber is just laying on the ground with slack on it. The buried crew is still going to bury it on the 16th. :rolleyes:

7. For some reason my HD National channels don't work (TNT HD, ESPN HD, Wealth TV, etc.) but the local and premium do. It is supposed to rectified tomorrow.

8. Did I mention that the Fios guide and On Demand suck compared to Comcast?

9. Also the remote sucks. I'm glad I have an extra Comcast remote. There's no page up and down on the Fios remote.

10. My ONT is inside the house.

11. Since I had a cable modem, it was suuuuuper easy for the inside hookup. Fios internet now can use coax (it's a combo router/modem).

12. I'm an employee so I get 15 Mbps for the price of 5.

Does anyone have, or know where I can find, the firewire drivers for the Verizon/Motorola QIP6200-2 STB? Running Windows XP.

Got my FIOS internet/HDTV installed yesterday. I was previously using Cox for internet and DirecTivo for TV (non-HD).

Don't have much to say that hasn't been said... the FIOS DVR leaves a lot to be desired after years of using the DirecTivo. The lack of "page up/down" in the guide is apalling. Strangely, we miss the "bedoop" sounds the Tivo makes when responding to button presses on the remote. With the FIOS DVR, it seems like 25% of the time the unit doesn't pick up our remote button presses, which is frustrating.

Will see how we feel in 29 days and whether getting HD channels is worth the downgrade in user-interface.

Whether you decide to stay with FiOS or not I would recommend picking up a Harmony remote. For FiOS it adds Page and Day navigation buttons as well as 30 second skip and 6 second jump back functionality. Even for non-FiOS stuff it works very well.

Another inexpensive option is the Comcast silver remote (on eBay for a few $). The newer model has the day and page forward/backward option and can be programmed to do the 30 second forward skip and has a 7 second backwards skip button.

Re: Volume of Verizon Commericals. First I like the FIOS service in my area (LI NY) in comparison to Cablevision. But - and I know to some this may be nitpicking - the volume of the commercials for Verizon's On Demand are driving us crazy. Most of my viewing is at night and when these commercials air I have to turn the volume down and then crank it back up when they are finished. Even allowing for the usual variety of volume levels Verizons On-Demand commercials (and only these) seem almost twice as loud as any other content on any of the channels. Anyone else experience this?

Re: Volume of Verizon Commericlas. First I like the FIOS service in my area (LI NY) in comparison to Cablevision. But - and I know to some this may be nitpicking - the volume of the commercials for Verizon's On Demand are driving us crazy. Most of my viewing is at night and when these commercials air I have to turn the volume down and then crank it back up when they are finished. Even allowing for the usual variety of volume levels Verizons On-Demand commercials (and only these) seem almost twice as loud as any other content on any of the channels. Anyone else experience this?

You bet!! I'm in Sarasota and a new Verizon install. Not sure if this has any relationship to the VOD volume problem, but I'm feeding the audio to my audio processor. I last noticed the volume issue when watching ESPN two nights ago, whose audio is decoded as Dolby Digital. When Verizon inserted their commercial, which almost blew us out of our seats, the decoder switched to Stereo and about doubled.

I did call Verizon tech support yesterday to complain, not that I think that my complaint would make any difference. But they seemed concerned. I said "you spent billions of dollars to build your infrastructure and try to lure people from their other cable companies or satellite. The least you could do is get the proper equipment that monitors and controls audio on Verizon insertions, so you don't irritate your new customers". I went on to say that if they didn't address this problem, that this could certainly escalate account cancellations and customers going back to their provider that doesn't blast the volume on inserted commercials.

My only suggestion would be for anyone that is annoyed by this to keep on complaining to Verizon. Maybe, someday, they might listen.

I also complained to Verizon Tech Support and received a similar response. Apparently the issue was at least passed on to someone else as I actually received a call back from Verizon. I explained the issue again and felt he at least understood the reason for my call. The call back was a pleasant surprise and hopefully signals a new and different era for customer service. Of course nothing has changed to date but at least there is some occasion to hope. Either the commercials are delivered to Verizon with hot audio or their commercial insertion system needs some adjusting and/or attenuation. Does anyone know if Verizon inserts locally or on a national or regional basis?

I had the Verizon triple play installed couple weeks ago and had the following experience:

Installation took 3 days. First day 1 tech showed up at 1 pm when was scheduled to start between 9-11 am. Then when arrives starts bitching about his drive took 1 1/2 hours, that he has been working 80 hours weeks, has not seen his family, that he can't stand Verizon, that he's from another county and Verizon is not training techs in my County (Northern NJ). He runs fiber wire from street (Town wires are not buried all above ground) Then tells me he is leaving at 2:30pm... nice took off a day and the guy puts in 1 1/2 hours. He actually suggested that I call Verizon to complain ... nice get the customer involved with Union-Employer issues.
Next day new tech shows up installs the ONT and battery backup but takes about 8 hours to do this. He sees my CPA license hanging on the wall in my Office and starts asking me tax questions and tells me he made $140,000 working for Verizon. Pretty good earnings but can see that these techs play the system.
Day 3 another tech shows up and spends 6 hours and gets everything up except the TV PQ is horrible. Thought phone service was OK but realize that can only make calls out but can't receive calls. Verizon did not port the number correctly they fix it the next 24 hours.
Several days later Verizon fixed something in the neighbor so the HD PQ is good however they have tried to fix the SD PQ (all channels tileing, blocky) but can't. Had a tech out to try to fix SD PQ... he tested signal strength, replaced boxes, etc... but he suggested I use componet cables for SD instead of HDMI... stupid idea and of course did not work.
Had a tech scheduled for yesterday never showed up ... bye Verizon.
I really wanted to get rid of Cablevision but actually their PQ is better and phone service (VOIP) is better. With Cablevision phone serice we like the ability to have voice messages e-mailed to us while at work .. Verizon can't do that. Called Cablevision and got a great deal on triple play to come back (29.95 each) and throwing in internet with boost, free DVR for one year .. getting same as FIOS for $40 per monthly cheaper. Cablevision even offered to pay any early termination fee that Verizon may charge up $250. Cablevision may not like it but I like competition! Now Cablevision needs to work on the Knicks and Rangers. Was really hoping FIOS would be great but just ain't there yet? Also Verizon DVR lots of issues as others have posted.

Deja Vu (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=9998500#post9998500)

Deja Vu

Original post deleted and copied to more appropriate thread.

I had the Verizon triple play installed couple weeks ago and had the following experience:

Installation took 3 days. First day 1 tech showed up at 1 pm when was scheduled to start between 9-11 am. Then when arrives starts bitching about his drive took 1 1/2 hours, that he has been working 80 hours weeks, has not seen his family, that he can't stand Verizon, that he's from another county and Verizon is not training techs in my County (Northern NJ). He runs fiber wire from street (Town wires are not buried all above ground) Then tells me he is leaving at 2:30pm... nice took off a day and the guy puts in 1 1/2 hours. He actually suggested that I call Verizon to complain ... nice get the customer involved with Union-Employer issues.
Next day new tech shows up installs the ONT and battery backup but takes about 8 hours to do this. He sees my CPA license hanging on the wall in my Office and starts asking me tax questions and tells me he made $140,000 working for Verizon. Pretty good earnings but can see that these techs play the system.
Day 3 another tech shows up and spends 6 hours and gets everything up except the TV PQ is horrible. Thought phone service was OK but realize that can only make calls out but can't receive calls. Verizon did not port the number correctly they fix it the next 24 hours.
Several days later Verizon fixed something in the neighbor so the HD PQ is good however they have tried to fix the SD PQ (all channels tileing, blocky) but can't. Had a tech out to try to fix SD PQ... he tested signal strength, replaced boxes, etc... but he suggested I use componet cables for SD instead of HDMI... stupid idea and of course did not work.
Had a tech scheduled for yesterday never showed up ... bye Verizon.
I really wanted to get rid of Cablevision but actually their PQ is better and phone service (VOIP) is better. With Cablevision phone serice we like the ability to have voice messages e-mailed to us while at work .. Verizon can't do that. Called Cablevision and got a great deal on triple play to come back (29.95 each) and throwing in internet with boost, free DVR for one year .. getting same as FIOS for $40 per monthly cheaper. Cablevision even offered to pay any early termination fee that Verizon may charge up $250. Cablevision may not like it but I like competition! Now Cablevision needs to work on the Knicks and Rangers. Was really hoping FIOS would be great but just ain't there yet? Also Verizon DVR lots of issues as others have posted.


Can I ask what town you are in ? I am in Bergenfield and have an April 6 install scheduled for the $94.99 "triple play". I'm hoping that the scheduled software upgrade and extra few weeks experience will result in a smoother install than you experienced.

Can I ask what town you are in ? I am in Bergenfield and have an April 6 install scheduled for the $94.99 "triple play". I'm hoping that the scheduled software upgrade and extra few weeks experience will result in a smoother install than you experienced.

I'm in Montvale. Apparently Techs drive out from Dover, NJ because as they state "Verizon has not trained Bergen County Techs"?

When you mention software upgrade you're refering to the DVR and not anything related to FIOS TV SD PQ issues, correct?

Overall HD picture quality is very good, SD PQ is very poor. Internet is very good. Phone is fine but miss the ability to have voice messages e-mailed to work e-mail address. DVR from Cablevision and Verizon both have strenghts and weaknesses.

Hope you have better luck than me!

I'm in Montvale. Apparently Techs drive out from Dover, NJ because as they state "Verizon has not trained Bergen County Techs"?

When you mention software upgrade you're refering to the DVR and not anything related to FIOS TV SD PQ issues, correct?

Overall HD picture quality is very good, SD PQ is very poor. Internet is very good. Phone is fine but miss the ability to have voice messages e-mailed to work e-mail address. DVR from Cablevision and Verizon both have strenghts and weaknesses.

Hope you have better luck than me!


Thanks mjlo. I'm surprised they are not training local techs. Once a sizable portion of bergen county is wired I would expect a heavy demand.

The software upgrade is for the dvr. I never went for the CV 8300hd because of all the issues I read about on the various forums.

I chose to switch to FIOS to get increased internet speed, more phone coverage , and a dvr for less money (at least for the first year). At the end of the year, I can go back to the slower internet, my old phone plan, and comparable tv package for about the same or slightly less than what I have now. Of course i can go back to CV and work out a returning deal with them !

I will post a report on my install experience in April

Whether you decide to stay with FiOS or not I would recommend picking up a Harmony remote. For FiOS it adds Page and Day navigation buttons as well as 30 second skip and 6 second jump back functionality. Even for non-FiOS stuff it works very well.

My Verizon remote has a 30 second skip button and 6 second jump back.

Unfortunately for me, 30 second skip seems to have stopped working in the last couple days. Not sure why.

btw, I just got my first Verizon bill and it only has phone on it - is this right? Are we not getting everything on one bill? I have TV, internet, and phone. Kind of annoying if it's separate bills.

My Verizon remote has a 30 second skip button and 6 second jump back.

Unfortunately for me, 30 second skip seems to have stopped working in the last couple days. Not sure why.

btw, I just got my first Verizon bill and it only has phone on it - is this right? Are we not getting everything on one bill? I have TV, internet, and phone. Kind of annoying if it's separate bills.

NY is experiencing problems with the 30sec skip function, as others have reported.

My Verizon bill included all services (TV, Internet and Phone). I suggest contacting the billing department and ask why it wasn't included on one bill.

NY is experiencing problems with the 30sec skip function, as others have reported.

Why would NY as a general area be having problems with what is surely a purely hardware-based function being performed at the STB level?

Did we all get some sort of software update that went bad and only affected this one little function?

It almost seems like it was intentionally switched off.

A little off topic, I know, but does anyone know how much a cable company would charge if you "lost" your remote?

When Verizon comes to the area, I plan to switch from Cox, but I don't want to lose that Page up/down function, and since we know the Comcast remotes work, I would imagine the Cox ones would work too, since they both use the same Motorola DVRs.

A ballpark estimate based on another provider's charge is fine.

Why would NY as a general area be having problems with what is surely a purely hardware-based function being performed at the STB level?

Did we all get some sort of software update that went bad and only affected this one little function?

It almost seems like it was intentionally switched off.
Yes, word is they started an update but stopped it when they realized it was breaking 30 second skip, but couldn't back out.

By one phone on your bill do you mean one line? If they were on separate accounts, only one gets cut over to FiOS... the other might still be on copper. But Verizon has been advertising "one bill" for everything... including cellular service... give them a call, see what it takes to put everything ont one.

A little off topic, I know, but does anyone know how much a cable company would charge if you "lost" your remote?

When Verizon comes to the area, I plan to switch from Cox, but I don't want to lose that Page up/down function, and since we know the Comcast remotes work, I would imagine the Cox ones would work too, since they both use the same Motorola DVRs.

A ballpark estimate based on another provider's charge is fine.

I don't remember exactly, but I think it was more than what it cost me to buy them on eBay For example, I got two for $13 shipped about 2 months ago).

A little off topic, I know, but does anyone know how much a cable company would charge if you "lost" your remote?

When Verizon comes to the area, I plan to switch from Cox, but I don't want to lose that Page up/down function, and since we know the Comcast remotes work, I would imagine the Cox ones would work too, since they both use the same Motorola DVRs.

A ballpark estimate based on another provider's charge is fine.

Comcast here made it a point to tell me I would be billed $25 if I did not return their remote.

By one phone on your bill do you mean one line? If they were on separate accounts, only one gets cut over to FiOS... the other might still be on copper. But Verizon has been advertising "one bill" for everything... including cellular service... give them a call, see what it takes to put everything ont one.

I never had Verizon in this house before. So never had a copper line phone. Had Cablevision's VoIP phone before. So this is definitely the new line they've put on its own bill.

I will probably just pay it this time and then see what happens with the next bill. I haven't gotten a FiOS bill at all yet so maybe the next one will have everything on it. If not, I'll call them and bitch about it.

A little off topic, I know, but does anyone know how much a cable company would charge if you "lost" your remote?

When Verizon comes to the area, I plan to switch from Cox, but I don't want to lose that Page up/down function, and since we know the Comcast remotes work, I would imagine the Cox ones would work too, since they both use the same Motorola DVRs.

A ballpark estimate based on another provider's charge is fine.

Depends on the situation. I returned my two DVR's to Comcast and when she asked for the remotes I told her that I used a Harmony Universal remote instead, which is true. She said fine and checked off that the remotes were returned. However, you can get the page up/down function in a number of ways, you don't have to use the Comcast remote to do it.

I'm in MA and my 30sec skip stopped working last night. :-(

I've been meaning to write up a detailed review of my FiOS install but just haven't had the time. The short version is that it was good. The installers were cool guys and knew what they were doing. There was one hiccup with disconnecting our phones by accident but it was fixed before they left. So far we are happy. The HD DVR box does feel really sluggish and had some issues early on but I'm chalking that up to needing to warm up or something because they don't seem to happen now. Not a lot of On Demand content, hopefully they will add more.

We're happy. :-)

Just got a new FIOS Motorola HD DVR yesterday (we have two others that work fine). Everything seems great when we watch live TV on the new DVR. However, this morning on a DVR recording of the Today Show, we noticed a ton of pixelization or blocking (not sure correct term but large chunks of the screens were distorted in horizontal lines or blocks).

Anyway, the show looked great live but then awful on recording. We recorded Good Morning America at the same time and had no issues.

So ... do you think the issue is on NBC's end, the FIOS side, or the hard drive of the DVR itself?

Any tips on fixing it before I call Verizon? I'm thinking maybe it just needs to reboot or some more download time, since it is new. Would appreciate some direction. Thanks!

If you just got it yesterday I would leave it up and running for a few days. If it still has problems I would call tech support. Ours had the same blocky pixeliazation stuff on two recordings on the first day or two but past that I haven't seen it.

On live TV NOT DVR ... How is everyone's SD PQ with Verizon .... mine is horrible with tiling and blocking?

On live TV NOT DVR ... How is everyone's SD PQ with Verizon .... mine is horrible with tiling and blocking?

There's no difference between live and DVR, unless there's something wrong with your box. The box doesn't compress.

There's no difference between live and DVR, unless there's something wrong with your box. The box doesn't compress.


Sorry forget the DVR, just in general my SD PQ stinks on 2 HD Tv's. Does anyone else have the same problem? HD channels look great but SD channels are ridiculously poor. Verizon tech said signal is fine and agrees SD looks bad but unable to fix it??????

Sorry forget the DVR, just in general my SD PQ stinks on 2 HD Tv's. Does anyone else have the same problem? HD channels look great but SD channels are ridiculously poor. Verizon tech said signal is fine and agrees SD looks bad but unable to fix it??????
The SD PQ should be very good for SD. All the SD channels are digital (unless you use an analog tuner for the locals in the ch 2 to 49 range). Are there particular channels that are worse than others? How do the national channels such as CNN, Discovery look compared to the local stations? Do the SD channels look worse than what you were getting before Verizon? In any case, you should call and ask for another service call. May need a more knowledgable tech.

The SD PQ should be very good for SD. All the SD channels are digital (unless you use an analog tuner for the locals in the ch 2 to 49 range). Are there particular channels that are worse than others? How do the national channels such as CNN, Discovery look compared to the local stations? Do the SD channels look worse than what you were getting before Verizon? In any case, you should call and ask for another service call. May need a more knowledgable tech.

The set up is as follows: Verizon Motorola HD Box connected to TV with HDMI cable ... so no analog. Yes there are some channel worse than others. Get tiling on all Channels except HD. The SD PQ was better with Cablevision. I read another forum any many others were experiencing the same problem. I may try Verizon for the 5th time. Thanks!

The set up is as follows: Verizon Motorola HD Box connected to TV with HDMI cable ... so no analog. Yes there are some channel worse than others. Get tiling on all Channels except HD. The SD PQ was better with Cablevision. I read another forum any many others were experiencing the same problem. I may try Verizon for the 5th time. Thanks!

There is something wrong with your setup. SD quality is perfect on every TV in my house, with no macroblocking...I came from DirecTV where the MPEG compression artifacts were very evident on SD channels; with FiOS it looks like OTA.

When they first did my install I did have an isuse with tiling on one TV; that was fixed by the tech changing out a splitter and wall plate. I would definitely give them another call and escalate if it doesn't get fixed.

The set up is as follows: Verizon Motorola HD Box connected to TV with HDMI cable ... so no analog. Yes there are some channel worse than others. Get tiling on all Channels except HD. The SD PQ was better with Cablevision. I read another forum any many others were experiencing the same problem. I may try Verizon for the 5th time. Thanks!
Have you tried connecting the TV to the Motorola using component cable? I suspect your problem is with the cable signal, but this is a simple experiment to do to see if there is some HDMI copy protection flag or interface issue with 480i signals. What do you have the HDMI/YPbPr Output and the 4:3 override (SD) set to on the Motorola setup menu. You get to it by turning the box off and pressing menu once on the remote or front panel.

What do you have the HDMI/YPbPr Output and the 4:3 override (SD) set to on the Motorola setup menu.Note: I (personally) get a (much) better SD picture by setting the 4:3 override to '480i' and letting my TV do the scaling. I've been much happier with SD content since doing so. IMO, the 6416's scaler isn't all that great. Of course, YMMV.

Try afiggatt's suggestions above ... tinker and play a little and see if you can get a better PQ. Post back the results.

Have you tried connecting the TV to the Motorola using component cable? I suspect your problem is with the cable signal, but this is a simple experiment to do to see if there is some HDMI copy protection flag or interface issue with 480i signals. What do you have the HDMI/YPbPr Output and the 4:3 override (SD) set to on the Motorola setup menu. You get to it by turning the box off and pressing menu once on the remote or front panel.

Last tech hooked up compenent cables but made no difference. HDMI/YPbPr is set to 720p and 4:3 set to 480p. Like you said I think it is the signal however the fact that the HD channels look great does not make sense. Tech said signal quality in the house is where it should be and tried a new box with no difference?

Had the same problem with scaling until I set 4:3 override ( as dt_dc has said ) to 480i - NOT 480p. Tried 480P but SD looked worse on system in NY. Same is true for HDMI or S connects. I use the S side for CC.

Had the same problem with scaling until I set 4:3 override ( as dt_dc has said ) to 480i - NOT 480p. Tried 480P but SD looked worse on system in NY. Same is true for HDMI or S connects. I use the S side for CC

I'll try the 4:3 set to 480i. Hope it works!

I have HDMI set to 720p are you saying use "i" instead of "p"? Sorry but "S side for CC" means s-cable for Comcast?

Whether you decide to stay with FiOS or not I would recommend picking up a Harmony remote. For FiOS it adds Page and Day navigation buttons as well as 30 second skip and 6 second jump back functionality. Even for non-FiOS stuff it works very well.

Where is the 30 second skip function on the Harmony remotes for the 6416 stb????

Where is the 30 second skip function on the Harmony remotes for the 6416 stb????Harmony makes a number of remotes. The button isn't always in the same place, but it's the same button used for chapter skip on DVD.

I'll try the 4:3 set to 480i. Hope it works!

I have HDMI set to 720p are you saying use "i" instead of "p"? Sorry but "S side for CC" means s-cable for Comcast?
Does your TV have a screen resolution of 1280x720? Is so, then 720p is probably the best setting for HD output. But if it is a 1366x768 or 1024x768 (or even 1920x1080) resolution, I would suggest you try the 1080i output setting. Most HD channels are 1080i, so that should provide the best picture for those channels. Unfortunately, the damn Motorola DVRs do not have native passthrough which passes 720p for 720p channels and 1080i for 1080i channels.

I interpret the cryptic "S side for CC" as meaning he uses S-Video for Closed Captioning, so he switches to S-Video input to watch SD channels. The Motorola DVR does not output closed captions for SD channels over component or HDMI when the "4:3 override" is set to 480i. When you set it to 480p, you get closed captions. I have mine set to 480p for the 4:3 override because of this.

See http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR/Setup for info on how to set up the Motorola DVR.

The Motorola DVRs work ok. The Verizon 6416 model is better and fixes some bugs that I had to live with the Motorola 6412 Series 2 unit I had with Adelphia. But the Motorola DVRs have some seriously brain dead design flaws. Most notably the inability to turn on or off closed caption output without turning the box off and going into the setup men as well as the lack of CC output for 480i. The second big flaw is the lack of native passthrough. I do not understand why the designers did this.

But this does not address your problem with the SD channels. It may be that you need to swap the DVR for a new unit if you have not tried that yet.

Okay folks, I'm really stressing and need some expert advise here! So all ideas and suggestions are welcome!

Here's some background and my dilemma. I'm about to move into a new home and the only place in my family room where coax is run is above my gas fireplace! Not my style, but it is what it is. I'm having the Verizon guy coming to install FiOS next week and I'm trying to figure out what options I have. I really don't want to have to break the drywall if I don't have to. Both upstairs and basement below are completely finished. How good are verizion guys about running cables in walls cleanly? Should I just have them figure something out?

I have a Panny 50px500 and was wondering if FiOS has a cable card option so I don't have to wire a stb. Is there anything else I can do? Any IR repeater options? X10? Wireless? Anything?

I'm also attaching a photo so you can see what the room currently looks like(was taken 2 months ago and there's a full mantle installed now). As you'll see, the biggest problem is that the fireplace is flush with the wall not allowing me to get back in there to run cables left or right.

PLEASE HELP!! :confused:

I'll try the 4:3 set to 480i. Hope it works!

I have HDMI set to 720p are you saying use "i" instead of "p"? Sorry but "S side for CC" means s-cable for Comcast?

I use s connection input for closed caption as it looks better than the version displayed by the Moto box - but don't use it all the time. I use 720p and 480i in setup and also use HDMI connection.

Where is the 30 second skip function on the Harmony remotes for the 6416 stb????


You can assign it to any button you want, that is the beauty of the Harmony. I believe it is called "Skip Forward" or something like that.

On pi-day (3.14) at my home in New Jersey, Verizon installed FiOS Triple Play, including 20/5 Mbps Internet, an HD DVR (Moto QIP 6416-2), a SD STB (Moto QIP 2500-3), and the Verizon Freedom Essentials phone package. The total cost per month is about $113 per month, compared with $156 per month for my previous combination of services, which did not include a DVR. (Taxes and fees are not included in these totals.) Even if FiOS were not a superior product, it would be the best choice on price alone.

For 10 years I had DirecTV, with HDTV for the last 6 years, and was quite satisfied with it. I wanted HD DVR, but it would have cost me several hundred dollars from DirecTV. For Internet access I used Comcast cable modem service, which gradually improved over the years but which seemed to have deteriorated for the past six months. I was ready for a change, and Verizon's FiOS Triple Play was just what I needed.

So far, so good. The CNET Bandwidth Meter averages about twice with FiOS what it did with Comcast. I am somewhat disappointed that the difference is not greater. I have not had any trouble with too small a NAT table in the router. The HD picture is fantastic. The contrast seems marginally better than with DirecTV, and I have not seen the pixelation during NCAA basketball games that I sometimes saw with DirecTV. Of course FiOS TV, unlike DirecTV, does not deteriorate during storms.

The HD DVR is better than I expected, given the complaints that have appeared in this thread. It must have the new software that is being rolled out first here in New Jersey. I have not experienced any annoying delays while changing channels, even between SD and HD. There are 4 speeds each for fast forward and rewind, ranging from 2-3 seconds to about 5 minutes per second. I don't feel the need for the 30-second skip that people seem to like so much. Using FF2 (12-13 seconds per second), I can click "play" when I see the program starting again and the DVR begins to play just about where it should. Recording individual shows and series is easy enough, although searching is slowed down by having to use cursor keys to navigate the on-screen keyboard when specifying a show. Setting up the favorites list requires going through the complete channel list with the cursor keys. The "page" key does not work in this context.

In summary, I am very happy with Verizon FiOS service and pricing. Best of all, I can now pause live TV when my wife starts to talk to me and resume when our conversation is finished.

Okay folks, I'm really stressing and need some expert advise here! So all ideas and suggestions are welcome!

Here's some background and my dilemma. I'm about to move into a new home and the only place in my family room where coax is run is above my gas fireplace! Not my style, but it is what it is. I'm having the Verizon guy coming to install FiOS next week and I'm trying to figure out what options I have. I really don't want to have to break the drywall if I don't have to. Both upstairs and basement below are completely finished. How good are verizion guys about running cables in walls cleanly? Should I just have them figure something out?

I have a Panny 50px500 and was wondering if FiOS has a cable card option so I don't have to wire a stb. Is there anything else I can do? Any IR repeater options? X10? Wireless? Anything?

PLEASE HELP!! :confused:

Use the existing coax at that point to connect directly to the TV. You can get a CC from FIOS. Otherwise, you'll have to figure out how to park an STB or DVR by the TV.

Very unlikely FIOS techs will run wire in the walls (especially from STB to TV) - unless you pay extra. If you want to do it right do it yourself ahead of time.

Ah so they DO have a cable card option! I'd thought the fcc required that all catv suppliers have them, but i couldn't find it on their site as an option to save my life?!?! I actually tried the cable card out when I was on cox and thought the pq was very nice, better than the stb IMHO!

Just so I know, what are people saying about the CC on FiOS? You can't access the FiOS multi-room dvr from the CC, can you?

This will work perfect since my HT is in the basement, i just really need this for entertaining, not real movie watching!

Thanks so much, I'll definitely look into it and get it hooked up!

I think it's $2.95/mo - make sure you call Verizon and ask them to bring one (the techs don't usually have one).

It can't do anything other than decrypt the encrypted chs. You lose VOD, PPV, Guide, DVR access (all functions that need 2 way comms) with a CC. CC has about the same PQ as via an STB.

... There are 4 speeds each for fast forward and rewind, ranging from 2-3 seconds to about 5 minutes per second. I don't feel the need for the 30-second skip that people seem to like so much. Using FF2 (12-13 seconds per second), I can click "play" when I see the program starting again and the DVR begins to play just about where it should. ...

Actually, the FiOS remote control does have buttons for 30-second skip ahead and 6-second skip back. However, I find that these buttons don't enable me to skip past commercials any faster than using FF2. Each way takes me about 22 seconds to get past 3 minutes 26 seconds of commercials on The Colbert Report. I prefer FF2 because it allows me to see the resumption of the program. I also tried FF3 but found it overshot the mark too much.

Yeah - that's the biggest complaint that I had when I switched from E*. On their DVR you could hit the skip button 5 times as fast as you could and in a second or two you skipped past 2 1/2 minutes of commercials. Also, their box was RF (not IR) and you didn't have to point the remote towards the TV. But PQ is much better with FiOS ... looking forward to improvement down the line in regards to their DVR interface, equipment, etc.

Satisfied FiOS TV and internet customer here.

For me, the HD DVR does have some shortcomings, but it does the job.

Quick question though, does anybody have any idea to what FiOS's plan is for additional HD channels? Or even additional channels in general? Out here in SoCal, we just went through a channel lineup re-arrangement, so I am wonder what they are going to do.

Quick question though, does anybody have any idea to what FiOS's plan is for additional HD channels? Or even additional channels in general? Out here in SoCal, we just went through a channel lineup re-arrangement, so I am wonder what they are going to do.
Check the Fios Programming thread in the HDTV Programming forum. The adding of more national HD channels has been the topic of discussion and rumor for months, but there has been no solid reports of when we will see more HD channels added. There were postings that from people who had been told that several HD channels such as Food-HD, HGTV-HD, and A&E-HD (which has little HD apparently) would be added before the end of the 1st quarter which is not far off.

So we went and purchased a Sony 46" 720p 3LCD HDTV last weekend and were able to convince D* to give us a zero-sum ($99 for the equipment up front/$99 programming credit = $0) deal to install the Slimline 5 LNB dish, HD DVR and move the TiVO unit to the bedroom.

But the same day we made the D* deal I come home and notice probably ten Verizon trucks in our neighborhood, including one guy pulling wire right outside our condo door. I walk up and ask whether VZ is turning on FIOS and he says, "Yup, should be up and running within less than 60 days." We then had a very informative talk about how the service gets to your house, etc. Cool guy.

SO, we are now considering FIOS as an alternative to D*, but my loving GF is wary - she likes what she likes, and she likes D*. So, if i make a FIOS recommendation, I had better be right or I'm gonna pay!!! :)

Thus, I turn to the wise souls here. How might you sway my decision in favor of FIOS?

We're located at the far south end of Alexandria, VA, across from the road to GW's Mount Vernon. Right now we pay about $60/mo for Total Choice Plus programming ($48.99), DVR ($6.99) and second receiver ($4.99), not including TiVO charges (separate). We'll continue with TCPlus HD with HD DVR and present DVR in bedroom service for about $80/mo. Unfortunately, the local HD channel lineup doesn't include PBS HD channels which I enjoy from time to time. I can't get them OTA - I tried last weekend and we're in a condo so an outdoor antenna is not a viable option. Later this year I will add the NCAA football, NFL ST, ESPN Full Court and March Madness.

We also have a Verizon DSL line (pretty basic - probably just 1.5Mb service) and dial-tone phone, costs about $35/mo or so.

We would want to get comparable service from FIOS. What say you, wise AVSers?

So we went and purchased a Sony 46" 720p 3LCD HDTV last weekend and were able to convince D* to give us a zero-sum ($99 for the equipment up front/$99 programming credit = $0) deal to install the Slimline 5 LNB dish, HD DVR and move the TiVO unit to the bedroom.

But the same day we made the D* deal I come home and notice probably ten Verizon trucks in our neighborhood, including one guy pulling wire right outside our condo door. I walk up and ask whether VZ is turning on FIOS and he says, "Yup, should be up and running within less than 60 days." We then had a very informative talk about how the service gets to your house, etc. Cool guy.

SO, we are now considering FIOS as an alternative to D*, but my loving GF is wary - she likes what she likes, and she likes D*. So, if i make a FIOS recommendation, I had better be right or I'm gonna pay!!! :)

Thus, I turn to the wise souls here. How might you sway my decision in favor of FIOS?

We're located at the far south end of Alexandria, VA, across from the road to GW's Mount Vernon. Right now we pay about $60/mo for Total Choice Plus programming ($48.99), DVR ($6.99) and second receiver ($4.99), not including TiVO charges (separate). We'll continue with TCPlus HD with HD DVR and present DVR in bedroom service for about $80/mo. Unfortunately, the local HD channel lineup doesn't include PBS HD channels which I enjoy from time to time. I can't get them OTA - I tried last weekend and we're in a condo so an outdoor antenna is not a viable option. Later this year I will add the NCAA football, NFL ST, ESPN Full Court and March Madness.

We also have a Verizon DSL line (pretty basic - probably just 1.5Mb service) and dial-tone phone, costs about $35/mo or so.

We would want to get comparable service from FIOS. What say you, wise AVSers?


Well on price you are looking at $43 for the equiv of TC Plus and then $12 ea for the DVRs so $67. Internet will be a lot faster but you pay for the speed. Any TV savings will be more than offset by increase in Internet cost. Also, you can't get NFL Sunday Ticket or the March Madness package on FiOS. You seem to have a pretty good deal with D* and DSL. Also, if she likes Tivo the FiOS DVR is a big step down. The FiOS technology is cool, though.

Here is your FiOS TV lineup to compare:
http://www22.verizon.com/NROneRetail/NR/rdonlyres/7D3CAA14-02A3-4BCD-830C-6C3F630FBDD1/0/VA_WashingtonMetro.pdf

You do get your PBS HD stuff though.

We would want to get comparable service from FIOS. What say you, wise AVSers?

A couple of things - in Nov. 2005 FiOS ran the fiber to w/in 10 feet of my house. It was activated two weeks ago. I live in S. Arlington at the Army-Navy Country Club if that gives you any bearings.

I called and talked throught the packages. The operator did say that in the "next month" FiOS will offer the "triple play" - unlimited phone, internet & TV for $99. I'm trying to get them to confirm I can switch to that plan if I can sign up now. That fee doesn't include boxes ($4.99 ea. or 12.99 HDDVR).

A couple of things - in Nov. 2005 FiOS ran the fiber to w/in 10 feet of my house. It was activated two weeks ago. I live in S. Arlington at the Army-Navy Country Club if that gives you any bearings.

I called and talked throught the packages. The operator did say that in the "next month" FiOS will offer the "triple play" - unlimited phone, internet & TV for $99. I'm trying to get them to confirm I can switch to that plan if I can sign up now. That fee doesn't include boxes ($4.99 ea. or 12.99 HDDVR).

Hmmmm, that $99 package is probably the low end internet (5/2), and expanded fios TV without a dvr (or maybe the SD dvr). Right now I'm paying almost $200 for phone, fios internet and tv. I wonder if I could renegotiate....

So we went and purchased a Sony 46" 720p 3LCD HDTV last weekend and were able to convince D* to give us a zero-sum ($99 for the equipment up front/$99 programming credit = $0) deal to install the Slimline 5 LNB

We're located at the far south end of Alexandria, VA, across from the road to GW's Mount Vernon. Right now we pay about $60/mo for Total Choice Plus programming ($48.99), DVR ($6.99) and second receiver ($4.99), not including TiVO charges (separate). We'll continue with TCPlus HD with HD DVR and present DVR in bedroom service for about $80/mo. Unfortunately, the local HD channel lineup doesn't include PBS HD channels which I enjoy from time to time. I can't get them OTA - I tried last weekend and we're in a condo so an outdoor antenna is not a viable option. Later this year I will add the NCAA football, NFL ST, ESPN Full Court and March Madness.

We also have a Verizon DSL line (pretty basic - probably just 1.5Mb service) and dial-tone phone, costs about $35/mo or so.

We would want to get comparable service from FIOS. What say you, wise AVSers?

dish, HD DVR and move the TiVO unit to the bedroom.

But the same day we made the D* deal I come home and notice probably ten Verizon trucks in our neighborhood, including one guy pulling wire right outside our condo door. I walk up and ask whether VZ is turning on FIOS and he says, "Yup, should be up and running within less than 60 days." We then had a very informative talk about how the service gets to your house, etc. Cool guy.

SO, we are now considering FIOS as an alternative to D*, but my loving GF is wary - she likes what she likes, and she likes D*. So, if i make a FIOS recommendation, I had better be right or I'm gonna pay!!! :)

Thus, I turn to the wise souls here. How might you sway my decision in favor of FIOS?




I've never had sat TV but posters say that sat providers send heavily compressed HD signals. HD is supposed to be better on both cable on FIOS. I currently have Comcast but as of yesterday FIOS TV is available so I will be installing sometime in the next two to three weeks. I will be getting many more channels for about the same price as Comcast plus a second DVR. SD quality on FIOS, according to posters, is signficantly better than cable, probably about the same as sat. With FIOS, no degradation of signal in bad weather. Also FIOS in metro DC carries both WETA and WMPT in HD.

Hmmmm, that $99 package is probably the low end internet (5/2), and expanded fios TV without a dvr (or maybe the SD dvr). Right now I'm paying almost $200 for phone, fios internet and tv. I wonder if I could renegotiate....


In northern NJ its the 20/5 internet service. The pkg is actually $94.99 and includes unlimited phone calling and the "premier" tv tier. It does NOT include stb's or premium sports/movie packages.

I just placed my order on the phone. I am served by the Bradley wire center (BTHSMDBD) in Montgomery County MD. I was told two days ago that the equipment install and circuits at the wire center were complete and that they were updating the availability data base. Because I already have the data service, my install date is sooner than others who posted on dslreports. I could have had tomorrow but we are leaving from NY in the afternoon so that wouldn't work. They are coming on 3/27. Yippie. I will post after that to let you all know how the install went and what I think of the picture quality and the functionality of the DVR. I currently have Comcast preferred basic so my expectations are to be delighted with the additional programming and better SD quality. I expect that the HD quality will be about the same and that the DVR will have some plusses and minuses. Currently I pay $75 per month for Comcast preferred basic with a DVR and an HD receiver -- about $70 without the taxes and fees. For FIOS TV I will pay 42.99 plus 25.98 for 2 HD DVRs and 9.98 for 2 SD STB's minus $5 discount for data service or $73.95. For this additional $3.94, I get nearly twice as many stations (granted, only about 20 that I may watch) and an additional DVR. I also get an additional discount for an annual agreement of 9.99 per month which brings me down to $63.96 per month.

The only downside is that I have to have an STB for my kitchen TV which is a pain in terms of space but I will survive. I will figure something out.

Thanks for your thoughts on our situation. One thing that is apparent from the various postings here over time is that most everyone seems to be satisfied with the FiOS picture, claiming it is superior to their experiences with either cable or satellite. Obvious downside for me is that I won't be able to watch my beloved Pack Attack in the fall, but I'm more of a Badger fan than Packers so...then again it very well could be Favre's last year. Decisions decisions...

I, too, am concerned about the picture quality of the HD channels if we go with DirecTV. We just blew $1,250 on a new 720p HDTV and I'm already concerned about the SD picture quality and fellow members on the sat threads here have voiced concerns about the compression issues (although all HD signals, including OTA, are compressed, as I understand it).

If any others have further thoughts we would appreciate hearing from you.

Thus, I turn to the wise souls here. How might you sway my decision in favor of FIOS?

We would want to get comparable service from FIOS. What say you, wise AVSers?
I think the biggest drawback of sat service is the contract commitment - and they do it for the same reason cell providers do - they don't want people to jump ship with every technological change. Even if you could get the price, PQ and features close to FIOS levels (they're not), the contract would be a deal buster for me. There's no way I'd want to be locked into something when a great thing could be around the corner.

The only downside is that I have to have an STB for my kitchen TV which is a pain in terms of space but I will survive. I will figure something out.

I went through the same situation as you, with the kitchen. At first my wife didn't want to have to deal with first turning on the power for the TV, and then switch the remote to "cable" so that it can control the STB. But after using it, for only a few days, she was so impressed with the superior picture quality, that the additional turn on steps, as well as the STB placed beneath the TV, were all secondary, and no longer a problem. Certainly, you'll figure out the best place for the placement of the STB.

Enjoy!!

I went through the same situation as you, with the kitchen. At first my wife didn't want to have to deal with first turning on the power for the TV, and then switch the remote to "cable" so that it can control the STB. But after using it, for only a few days, she was so impressed with the superior picture quality, that the additional turn on steps, as well as the STB placed beneath the TV, were all secondary, and no longer a problem. Certainly, you'll figure out the best place for the placement of the STB.

Enjoy!!

With the SD STB, can you place the TV right on top of the Box? That would probably solve the space problem. With the HD DVR you can't due to the heat and the need for ventilation. I just assumed the same was true of the SD STB's.

With the SD STB, can you place the TV right on top of the Box? That would probably solve the space problem. With the HD DVR you can't due to the heat and the need for ventilation. I just assumed the same was true of the SD STB's.

My TV that I placed on top of the STB is an LCD that has a "V" footprint for a stand. So there's no ventilation issues, plus the TV, being an LCD, is not too heavy. On the other hand, the STB does not generate alot of heat, and there are ventilation holes on the sides as well as the top. It all depends on your particular situation, and particularly how much weight you'd be putting on top of the STB and how much heat you would be trapping. In my case, it was a non issue.

So we went and purchased a Sony 46" 720p 3LCD HDTV last weekend and were able to convince D* to give us a zero-sum ($99 for the equipment up front/$99 programming credit = $0) deal to install the Slimline 5 LNB dish, HD DVR and move the TiVO unit to the bedroom.

We would want to get comparable service from FIOS. What say you, wise AVSers?

Don't have FIOS TV in my area yet, just internet, but I am a D* subscriber. Just a warning...your "deal" with DirecTV gives you the equipment so cheaply because usually they have requirement that you have to keep a certain level of service for either 1 or 2 years. If you cancel before that, they will try to hit you with a large fee for breaking your "contract". I would check with D* to see if you do have a certain required period dropping them. Also, check with your town...have they approved the license for FIOS TV yet? As I said, we have Internet in mine, but the tv license process is taking a long time. So just because the guys in the truck told you 60 days, it could be longer.

My TV that I placed on top of the STB is an LCD that has a "V" footprint for a stand. So there's no ventilation issues, plus the TV, being an LCD, is not too heavy. On the other hand, the STB does not generate alot of heat, and there are ventilation holes on the sides as well as the top. It all depends on your particular situation, and particularly how much weight you'd be putting on top of the STB and how much heat you would be trapping. In my case, it was a non issue.

Thanks for the details. I found some kitchen cablinet wire shelving units that we could use to place the STB either over or under other items on the counter next to the TV. That should work. If VZ ever change its video distribution to allow QAM tuners to pickup all nonpremium digital stations, I will buy a new TV (Costco as new 20 inch Vizio flat panels with QAM tuners for four c notes) and dump the STB, but in the meantime . . .

My TV that I placed on top of the STB is an LCD that has a "V" footprint for a stand. So there's no ventilation issues, plus the TV, being an LCD, is not too heavy. On the other hand, the STB does not generate alot of heat, and there are ventilation holes on the sides as well as the top. It all depends on your particular situation, and particularly how much weight you'd be putting on top of the STB and how much heat you would be trapping. In my case, it was a non issue.

I have the same setup. I was going to look into an IR repeater so I could put the stb in a cabinet but havn't gotten around to it. I'm not sure its cost effective. Someday a kitchen sized TV with cablecard for a reasonable price will come on the market !

I have the same setup. I was going to look into an IR repeater so I could put the stb in a cabinet but havn't gotten around to it. I'm not sure its cost effective. Someday a kitchen sized TV with cablecard for a reasonable price will come on the market !

The local news channel, that seems to be on most of the time in my kitchen, is completing building of their HD newsroom. Having said that, I'm sure that a reasonably priced, LCD HD, cable card set, will be in my kitchen in the near future.

The local news channel, that seems to be on most of the time in my kitchen, is completing building of their HD newsroom. Having said that, I'm sure that a reasonably priced, LCD HD, cable card set, will be in my kitchen in the near future.

TV's 20 inches and smaller with QAM tuners are starting to roll out but I have not seen anything with a cable card. Let us hope that manufacturers will realize that small TVs with cablecards will be a popular draw.

TV's 20 inches and smaller with QAM tuners are starting to roll out but I have not seen anything with a cable card. Let us hope that manufacturers will realize that small TVs with cablecards will be a popular draw.

Exactly. The smaller sized tv's are the ones that would benefit the most by cablecard. I puposely chose the Sony A2000 series over the XBR2 because I was not interested in cablecard in a 60" tv. I would imagine the manufacturers are afraid to add it to their smaller (read:"cheaper" ) lines of tv's due to the added cost.

I was thinking of getting a cable card just so I could actually utilize PIP on my set. I've searched the thread but does anyone think that it'd be too much of a headache?

We're considering switching from Time Warner Cable to Verizon Fios TV here in southern California and i'm a bit confused about the Fios programming. Does Verizon transmit ALL of their content in digital format only, or do they broadcast certain basic channels on an analog tier like the cable companies? Is analog transmissioin even possible with their fiber optics and the ONT server i hear about?

Basically my question is, if i hook an analog NTSC TV to my homes coaxial distribution system with Verizon fios, will i be able to receive any programming, or do i need a set top box for EVERY TV to view ANYTHING.

Thanks for the help, any info would be greatly appreciated.

We're considering switching from Time Warner Cable to Verizon Fios TV here in southern California and i'm a bit confused about the Fios programming. Does Verizon transmit ALL of their content in digital format only, or do they broadcast certain basic channels on an analog tier like the cable companies? Is analog transmissioin even possible with their fiber optics and the ONT server i hear about?

Basically my question is, if i hook an analog NTSC TV to my homes coaxial distribution system with Verizon fios, will i be able to receive any programming, or do i need a set top box for EVERY TV to view ANYTHING.

Thanks for the help, any info would be greatly appreciated.

Here in Sarasota, FL, channels 2-49, which are your local basics, are available without a set top box. I assume it's no different throughout their system.

A little Q & A with Brian Whitton, Executive Director of Access Network Design and Integration for Verizon

http://policyblog.verizon.com/policyblog/blogs/policyblog/czblogger1/258/broadband-fios-conversation-with-brian-whitton.aspx

Basically my question is, if i hook an analog NTSC TV to my homes coaxial distribution system with Verizon fios, will i be able to receive any programming, or do i need a set top box for EVERY TV to view ANYTHING.


Go to the FIOS TV site and look up the ch lineup for your area. In that line up look up the basic chs (those below 50) - those are the ones you'll get in analog and which can be viewed directly from the coax with an NTSC tuner.

FIOS has either 2 or 3 versions of the same ch: analog, SD QAM and HD QAM. A TV with a QAM tuner will pick up all of the same basic chs (SD or HD) below 50 plus a few "bonus" chs. ;)

All of the above without an STB.

Go to the FIOS TV site and look up the ch lineup for your area. In that line up look up the basic chs (those below 50) - those are the ones you'll get in analog and which can be viewed directly from the coax with an NTSC tuner.

FIOS has either 2 or 3 versions of the same ch: analog, SD QAM and HD QAM. A TV with a QAM tuner will pick up all of the same basic chs (SD or HD) below 50 plus a few "bonus" chs. ;)

All of the above without an STB.
Thanks for the info.

So if i understand you correctly, they also simulcast EVERY analog channel (2-50) digitally in the clear QAM to be picked up by QAM tuners and their STB's, correct?

Yes, plus a few "bonus" chs.

Yes, plus a few "bonus" chs.

The only "bonus" channels I get here in Sarasota, are some Music channels, two weatherscan subchannels, and two PBS subchannels. But the all important network HD channels are in the clear, and can be picked up with a QAM tuner. I use HD Homerun. MyHD has also worked for me.

after two months of working flawlessly, i discovered my motorola hd-dvr stb would no longer function as a dvr. that is, it gave all of the other fios functionality but would no longer record (or play back what had been recorded on it)...using the menu, the option of recorded tv was simply no longer there. and when i hit the record button on the remote, i got a message that i wasn't signed up for a dvr!

the fios tech was very responsive and we tried a number of re-boots and signal changes over a half-hour period, but all to no avail. so now verizon will be sending someone out with a new box on thursday (they actually would have sent someone this afternoon, but it wasn't convenient for us).

has anyone else had this problem with their motorola hd-dvr? at least the verizon customer service was good, even if their box wasn't.

guess i'll have to buy the planet earth dvds now -- couldn't miss the final rome last night!

We've been having lots of picture problems since getting FIOS installed (pixelization, blocking, etc and unwatchable OnDemand)

I called FIOS this morning and they said they would reinitialize the boxes (we have 3 dvrs in the house) and not to touch them for half an hour. If we don't see improvement, call back and they'll send a tech.

The boxes all turned off then, while the reinitialization happened. That was over an hour ago. The boxes have not turned back on yet.

Think it is safe to turn them on manually without screwing up anything? I assumed they would power up automatically after the reinitialization, but maybe I'm wrong.

I figured I'd ask the folks here rather than call FIOS back and go through all that again. Thanks!

I emailed my contact who is an executive with Verizon in Maryland about the future of STB requirements for non-premium digital reception. I received a reply that VZ will be offering a smaller SD STB called the DCT700. It is 5.5" wide, 6.5" deep, and 1.75" high. It will provide access to all SD programming but not VOD, Impulse PPV, or interactive features. The program guide was not mentioned but the Motorola site says it does work with guides. I guess it will depend on how VZ implements it. It also only has composite and coax output.

At any rate, it would be helpful for those of us with kitchen TVs who don't want to take up countertop space with the larger SD STB.

ETA is uncertain but hopefully sometime this summer. However, this timeframe is not written in stone.

Personally, I think this is good news.

I emailed my contact who is an executive with Verizon in Maryland about the future of STB requirements for non-premium digital reception. I received a reply that VZ will be offering a smaller SD STB called the DCT700. It is 5.5" wide, 6.5" deep, and 1.75" high. It will provide access to all SD programming but not VOD, Impulse PPV, or interactive features. The program guide was not mentioned but the Motorola site says it does work with guides. I guess it will depend on how VZ implements it. It also only has composite and coax output.

At any rate, it would be helpful for those of us with kitchen TVs who don't want to take up countertop space with the larger SD STB.

ETA is uncertain but hopefully sometime this summer. However, this timeframe is not written in stone.

Personally, I think this is good news.

A High Def version would be even better ! I have a 17" HD lcd in my kitchen.(file this under the "some people are never happy" category)

We've been having lots of picture problems since getting FIOS installed (pixelization, blocking, etc and unwatchable OnDemand)

I called FIOS this morning and they said they would reinitialize the boxes (we have 3 dvrs in the house) and not to touch them for half an hour. If we don't see improvement, call back and they'll send a tech.

The boxes all turned off then, while the reinitialization happened. That was over an hour ago. The boxes have not turned back on yet.

Think it is safe to turn them on manually without screwing up anything? I assumed they would power up automatically after the reinitialization, but maybe I'm wrong.

I figured I'd ask the folks here rather than call FIOS back and go through all that again. Thanks!

Hit he power button on the remote for each STB. I'm 99% sure its alright. ;)

A High Def version would be even better ! I have a 17" HD lcd in my kitchen.(file this under the "some people are never happy" category)

The same could be same about most posters on this forum. I also asked about QAM tuners being able to pull in non-premium digital. Starting this month, there are a new small TV's out on the market with QAM tuners. Costco has a 20 inch Vizio for 399 and Samsung has a new 19 inch. The response was not clear and I am trying to get clarification. The response seemed to indicate that sets with QAM tuners would be able to pull in all non-premium digital. I am keeping my fingers crossed that this is the case because it would be a big plus for folks with TV's in small spaces. But as I said, the response was not clear. I will post more when I get a clearer response.

The response seemed to indicate that sets with QAM tuners would be able to pull in all non-premium digital. I am keeping my fingers crossed that this is the case because it would be a big plus for folks with TV's in small spaces. But as I said, the response was not clear. I will post more when I get a clearer response.
Don't hold your breath - it's very unlikely FIOS will change their ways from the current way - everything above the locals (below ch 50) will be encrypted.

Don't hold your breath - it's very unlikely FIOS will change their ways from the current way - everything above the locals (below ch 50) will be encrypted.

Here's the first response I recieved:

VZ will offer a smaller device called Digital Adapter DCT700 that we expect will be available to customers between June and August this year. This unit, which dimensions are 5.5Wx6.5Lx1.75H, will allow users to view the same Local, Premium, and National Standard Definition Channels available on other STBs in the home, but will not provide access to VOD, Impulse PPV, or other Interactive Services.
Ref. the device to receive only non-premium channels, VZ deliver non-premium in analog format so TVs with analog tuners will not require an external box to receive these channels. Devices that include QAM tuners are called Digital Cable Ready (DCR), although they are rarely small and tend to integrate screens larger than 27". If a customer wishes to receive a non-premium content in digital format without STB, he/she will have to use a DCR device and CableCARD will not be required to receive these channels since VZ do not encrypt them. A CableCARD provided by Verizon is required if the customer wish to receive FiOS Premium contents using a DCR TV. Finally, VZ will make sure that customers have an alternative to receive non-premium channels in the future if these channels are delivered using only the QAM transport.

As you can see, the text with reference to QAM was not that clear but it seems to suggest that in the future TV's with QAM tuners will be able to receive non premium digital channels without a cablecard for channels that are delivered using only QAM transport.

Here is my followup question:

I was not clear, however, on the additional discussion of QAM and cablecards. If I read it correctly, a TV with a QAM tuner, but not cablecard would be able to received non-premium digital content (the premier package without any addons). Is that correct? If so, as of when (now or in the near future)?

Prior to March of this year, pretty much only TV's 26 inches and larger had QAM tuners but as of this Month, the FCC requires all TV's sold to have digital tuners. I have seen many new models of smaller sets (20 inches and less) that have both regular digital and QAM tuners. For example, Costco as a 20inch hidef LCD with a QAM tuner which would fit perfectly on my kitchen counter.

If I interpreted your response correctly, these newer TV's would be able to pull display all of the FIOS preimier stations except for the premium content (e.g., HBO, movie package, etc.). If you could confirm, I would appreciate it. Thanks.



By the way, can anybody explain what is meant by "channels delivered using only QAM transport"? Thanks.

By the way, can anybody explain what is meant by "channels delivered using only QAM transport"? Thanks.


I'm guessing they're making a distinction between the TV chs & VOD/PPV (which are IPTV-based.)

You have to be careful on what one defines as non-premium. My and seemingly your definition would be those chs above the locals and below the premium such as HBO (like ESPN, CNN etc). From that complicated answer it seems like to VZ non-premium means the locals.

Bottom line, FIOS and most likely all cable cos in the future, will have a basic tier (the locals) which will be available in clear QAM. Everything above that will be encrypted requiring an STB or CC. Sooner or later (could be 2/09 for FIOS) analogs will be shut off.

By the way, can anybody explain what is meant by "channels delivered using only QAM transport"? Thanks.Taken in the context of the letter ... and given Verizon's intermigneld use of their 'premier' tier and 'premium' channels ...

Yes, it sounds like they are saying that if they turn off the analog versions of channels 02-50 ... they'll make sure to have a (low cost) solution to get those channels on an analog TV. Ie ... biker19's "bottom line" above.

Anyone had any luck getting a credit for the rental of the HD DVR because of the stuttering issues?

I[I] was not clear, however, on the additional discussion of QAM and cablecards. If I read it correctly, a TV with a QAM tuner, but not cablecard would be able to received non-premium digital content (the premier package without any addons). Is that correct? If so, as of when (now or in the near future)?BTW, Verizon has a FAQ on their site that addresses what a CableCard TV set without a CableCard in it can recieve (ie ... what's available via clear QAM):http://www22.verizon.com/content/fiostv/customer+support/faqs/

What programs can I watch with my DCR TV without a CableCARD or set-top box?

You can watch FiOS TV Local Analog, Standard Definition and High Definition Local digital channels without a STB or CableCARD plugged into the DCR slot.

Question on FIOS

This letter dated 23 March 2007 was sent to Mayor's in New Jersey from the NJ League of Municipalities:
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
"Dear Mayor

Please copy this letter to your emergency management coordinator.

Widespread deployment of fiber optic phone service throughout the state may result in the removal or abandonment of some copper phone lines. It is important for your municipal operations that you understand how this may impact your phone communications during power outages.

Copper phone lines are powered by phone company batteries and generators. They do not rely on subscribers' power sources to function during power outages.

A fiber optic phone line requires subscribers to provide a power source, including during power outages.

For example, the Verizon FiOS web site explains this as follows:

"Power for services provided on the Verizon FiOS network must be supplied by the customer. Customer is responsible for back-up batter replacement. Back-up battery does not supply power for Online or Video services. Certain telephones, answering machines and other telephone equipment not meeting industry standards may not work with service provided on the Verizon FiOS network. Copyright 2006 Verizon All Rights Reserved."

The League recommends before engaging this new technology, municipal officials carefully examine the different service capabilities of fiber optic based phone service and how they will serve municipal operations.

Contact your phone company for technical assistance determining the impact of fiber optic technology on your municipal phone service."
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Any comments on this? In the event of a power outage, those without a generator or backup power always had reliable phone service over copper: apparently not so with FIOS?



Thanks

Any comments on this? In the event of a power outage, those without a generator or backup power always had reliable phone service over copper: apparently not so with FIOS?



Thanks

With FiOS you will only get 8 hours of battery backup on the Phones if the power goes out.

Not an issue for me since we dont even own non cordless phones. In fact before fios was here we were cell only.

http://www.rfjason.com/?p=22 - I'm going to be careful and say his blog is NSFW due to other content on it, the worst I saw in the Verizon posts was a smattering of (understandably) colorful language though.

Then again if you have Verizon Voicewing VOIP , like I do, if the power goes out your S.O.L!


With FiOS you will only get 8 hours of battery backup on the Phones if the power goes out.

Not an issue for me since we dont even own non cordless phones. In fact before fios was here we were cell only.

http://www.rfjason.com/?p=22 - I'm going to be careful and say his blog is NSFW due to other content on it, the worst I saw in the Verizon posts was a smattering of (understandably) colorful language though.

"Is that a coax? Why, yes it is! Does it get used in this installation? No. Have I tried plugging into my Comcast coax? Hell no. YAY VERIZON!"

What an idiot.

Sorry his installation sucked, but mine as well as many other people in my area have had no problems with them. Unfortunately, his bad experience is the one people will hear about not the dozens of great ones i know of.

Unfortunately, his bad experience is the one people will hear about not the dozens of great ones i know of.
Well if it says anything I'm reading a lot here and only saw the other in passing. :)

That's amusing. I feel bad for the guy, but he is being obnoxious. However, Verizon's call reps and billing practices leave a lot to be desired. I ordered FiOS online and then called to confirm that it was going to happen. I spent about 20 minutes talking to a rep who told me that there was no way my install is what I got online and then realized she was looking at someone else's account.

Then I got charged for installation on my first bill (I almost had a heart attack when I saw a $350 charge from Verizon) and then when I signed up for their Triple Play deal it was not reflected in my first bill. They were nice enough and took care of it both times but those things shouldn't have happened in the first place. No weekend billing support is also unfortunate.

BTW, Verizon has a FAQ on their site that addresses what a CableCard TV set without a CableCard in it can recieve (ie ... what's available via clear QAM):


I got confirmation on that late yesterday afternoon: With QAM you can get broadcast HD channels without a box or cablecard but for all digital "cable"channels you need either the box or cablecard. Oh well, back where we started I guess.

I had a 12 to 5 installation window for TV service today. I arrived home from work at 11:50 and the truck pulled up at 11:57. They had the order correct as far as number and types of boxes. We toured the house to show the location of existing cabling and outlets and where the DVRs and SD STB's go. They are now working at it. I will post and update when they finish. Should be a couple of hours.

I emailed my contact who is an executive with Verizon in Maryland about the future of STB requirements for non-premium digital reception. I received a reply that VZ will be offering a smaller SD STB called the DCT700. It is 5.5" wide, 6.5" deep, and 1.75" high. It will provide access to all SD programming but not VOD, Impulse PPV, or interactive features. The program guide was not mentioned but the Motorola site says it does work with guides. I guess it will depend on how VZ implements it. It also only has composite and coax output.

At any rate, it would be helpful for those of us with kitchen TVs who don't want to take up countertop space with the larger SD STB.

ETA is uncertain but hopefully sometime this summer. However, this timeframe is not written in stone.

Personally, I think this is good news.

Interesting that the DCT700 won't have VOD or PPV. Comcast in southeastern PA currently uses these boxes (I have two @ $4.95/mo each). They provide Channel Guide and VOD (I've never tried PPV for them), as well as access to the premium channel, in my case the 7 HBO's. What is annoying is that they don't provide access to some of the other SD programming I pay for (Encore etc.) that my DVR provides. It sounds like Verizon will provide access to these channels - one more reason to switch.

I had a 12 to 5 installation window for TV service today. I arrived home from work at 11:50 and the truck pulled up at 11:57. They had the order correct as far as number and types of boxes. We toured the house to show the location of existing cabling and outlets and where the DVRs and SD STB's go. They are now working at it. I will post and update when they finish. Should be a couple of hours.

The installers finished at about 3:30. They had to wait until all the boxes initialized. They had to reboot one of the boxes because the color came up green. The reboot fixed it.

The installers were friendly, courteous, relatively fast, and from what I can tell so far, they seem to have done the job right. I was working at home while they were doing their job so I haven't had much chance to check things over thoroughly but all the sets have a picture, the PQ is great, I have the guide, and I'm getting all the channels. I haven't tried VOD or the DVR yet but that will have to wait until tonight along with deleting mega number of channels from the guide. So far I am very pleased. I'll give a few days before I call Comcast and say "later folks.". So far VZ gets a clear 2 thumbs up rating. By the way, on my main sets, I am using harmony remotes so I won't have any of the remote issues people have been complaining about.

Interesting that the DCT700 won't have VOD or PPV. Comcast in southeastern PA currently uses these boxes (I have two @ $4.95/mo each). They provide Channel Guide and VOD (I've never tried PPV for them)Motorola's existing / current DCT700 doesn't have the Moca hardware the QIP series does ... QAM only.

In addition to ruling out VOD, that would also rule out widgets and its use as a client for the multi-room DVR for any Verizon customers.

Then again if you have Verizon Voicewing VOIP , like I do, if the power goes out your S.O.L!

True.. but thats would be the case with any VOIP... You're pc and router would have to be on an UPS along with the ONT. Not sure how well that would work though.

Wednesday Update

So far so good. All family members are happy. My initial DVR efforts went without a hitch. Having never had Tivo, i can't compare but so far I would say that the DVR functionality is comparable to Comcast. The one thing I liked more about the Comcast Guide was the color coding of movies, sports, and children's programming. Am I missing something with the FIOS guide? Maybe the new IPG will have better visual cues.

And one last thing. I tried to give the installers a tip ($20 each) but they refused. They said they weren't allowed. What they really wanted was a tall glass of ice water and the use of our bathroom. The lead tech gave me his card with his cell phone number and told me to call if I had any issues at all. A real stand up guy. He also gave me and HDMI cable -- it would be a cold day in hell before Comcast would do that.

know some folks have had installation nightmares but ours went smoothly. It helped already having the internet service already installed.

I tried to give the installers a tip ($20 each) but they refused. They said they weren't allowed.

If the installer was working alone and didn't have a partner, he most likely would have taken the tip.


He also gave me and HDMI cable -- it would be a cold day in hell before Comcast would do that.

They are trying real hard to please by giving out HDMI cables, components cables, and just about anything else you need for connectivity. And the cables they are giving out are not of "junk" quality.

I'm pleased with my Verizon installation, as well.

They do need to get a handle on the audio levels for Verizon inserted advertising. For me, it's been most noticeable on CNN. It can blow you out of your seat. They know there's a problem, acknowledged it, and say it's being worked on.

If the installer was working alone and didn't have a partner, he most likely would have taken the tip.




They are trying real hard to please by giving out HDMI cables, components cables, and just about anything else you need for connectivity. And the cables they are giving out are not of "junk" quality.

I'm pleased with my Verizon installation, as well.

They do need to get a handle on the audio levels for Verizon inserted advertising. For me, it's been most noticeable on CNN. It can blow you out of your seat. They know there's a problem, acknowledged it, and say it's being worked on.

I called Comcast to cancel. Boy did they try to pony up special offers right quick. Little to late for that unless they wanted to upgrade me to their digital package and a second DVR for $6 less than I am paying them now for 1 DVR and their expanded basic package. But truly, even if they made that offer, I would have told them too late. Maybe they will start thinking twice about excessive rate increases. My prediction is that if they lose close to 10K customers in Mont Co. Maryland, they will start changing their pricing behavior.

If the installer was working alone and didn't have a partner, he most likely would have taken the tip.

Actually Ron, my guy was here last week from 9:30am-4:30pm and got me hooked up with cable and high speed internet. He refused a $40 tip! He said, "this is my job, I already get paid to do this! (some insisting on my part) I really can't, but thank you for offering though! (are you sure?) It's the thought that counts!". It left me shocked! I didn't know what to say and so it left for a very long and uncomfortable pause, but that was mostly my fault! ;) I was certainly shocked and impressed! Really nice and knowledgeable guy too!

NOW I have to say, I'm moving into a new home and have the lines all ready to go. BUT, I haven't actually seen FiOS in action other than personally doing a few bandwidth tests on my laptop. So although install was smooth(albeit long) i've only experienced the blazing download speeds! I'm reserving full judgment 'till after i've sat back on my couch with a cold one and watched a great movie in HD while surfin' the net on my laptop! Then, and only then, will I REALLY be impressed!

When I had FIOS installed back in February and then canceled COX a day later, they didn't offer anything to try to get me to stay. But the clerk asked if I was moving to Verizon - I answered yes. His reply... ok, we'll see you next year when you need to come back. I chuckled.

Since then, I am being FLOODED with US mailings to join COX service for TV and telephone. I would say at least 1 to 2 a day show up - no exaggeration. Post cards, letters, you name it. Some have their logo - some are plain unmarked mailings. Its like I'm being spammed through the US Mail!

When I had FIOS installed back in February and then canceled COX a day later, they didn't offer anything to try to get me to stay. But the clerk asked if I was moving to Verizon - I answered yes. His reply... ok, we'll see you next year when you need to come back. I chuckled.

Same scenario for me when I dropped Comcast after having Verizon installed.

My only disappointment continues to be the glitching or pixelization I'm getting on my cable card enabled Series 3 Tivo. It's not all that frequent, but when it does happen, it's quite annoying. The Tivo decoder is sensitive to the glitches while the Verizon STB is forgiving. If Verizon would send glitch free transmissions, then it would be a non-issue.

Actually Ron, my guy was here last week from 9:30am-4:30pm and got me hooked up with cable and high speed internet. He refused a $40 tip! He said, "this is my job, I already get paid to do this! (some insisting on my part) I really can't, but thank you for offering though! (are you sure?) It's the thought that counts!". It left me shocked! I didn't know what to say and so it left for a very long and uncomfortable pause, but that was mostly my fault! ;) I was certainly shocked and impressed! Really nice and knowledgeable guy too!


I guess the installers in Florida think differently! While my guy had all the attibutes you described about your installer, he didn't hesitate taking the $40 tip which I thought he definitely deserved for a neat, caring job.

I would like to place the actiontec as a bridge/switch behind my zyxel router which has better wireless range. Is this possiple? If so, can anybody provide me the step-by-step instructions? I can't do it the other way around because the my zyxel cannot be setup as an access point.

I ordered a cablecard last week and a tech came out and installed a card on my LG Plasma. However, The card could not be activated b/c their system was down. I was told that someone would call me back when it was activated.
Later that day someone called me and told me my card was activated and that I should have all the channels. I did not.
I called back on monday this week and they told me someone would come out and work on it. Someone came today and couldn't figure out was wrong.
They have no answers and have tried multiple cards. Really I think most people at verizon don't know how cablecards work and this is becoming a big hassle.

Any advice? or should I instruct them to do something else besides simply "activating" the card.

I called Comcast to cancel. Boy did they try to pony up special offers right quick. Little to late for that unless they wanted to upgrade me to their digital package and a second DVR for $6 less than I am paying them now for 1 DVR and their expanded basic package. But truly, even if they made that offer, I would have told them too late. Maybe they will start thinking twice about excessive rate increases. My prediction is that if they lose close to 10K customers in Mont Co. Maryland, they will start changing their pricing behavior.

Cablevision in my area (Long Island) didn't offer me anything. They asked me why I was canceling and I told them; they obviously had a script ready but it didn't include any offers. They asked me if I realized I'd actually be paying more with Verizon when all was said and done (they might be right in this). I said the price wasn't really the issue (that's true). They asked me why I was switching, and I told them Verizon had more HD channels - I forgot to tell them about the higher resolution (mainly because of the DVR CV has). They asked me which channels - obviously they are paying at least some attention, and will use that data when deciding what channels to add.

I guess I was lucky with Cablevision, though; I know a lot of people hate them but in my area they were actually pretty good. In the year I had them, my service was 100% reliable - TV, internet and phone. No problems at all. So far with Verizon, I am having a lot of random little issues - the router needs to be rebooted about once every two days, I get annoying audio dropouts only on Fox, my two DVR's are noisy even when turned off, etc.

Question for anyone that knows - do I *have to* use Verizon's wi-fi router? If I call and ask, will they replace it with a modem only? I think they did ask me when they installed it whether I wanted the router, and I said yes because I thought it'd be a separate box. I hate their router; it's too complicated to set up simple things like port forwarding, its range absolutely sucks, and it crashes constantly (as I said above). I was totally happy with my old Linksys router before I switched, which was hooked up to Cablevision's Motorola modem. This setup was rock solid for me. Does Verizon only give out this Actiontec junk?

Question for anyone that knows - do I *have to* use Verizon's wi-fi router? If I call and ask, will they replace it with a modem only? I think they did ask me when they installed it whether I wanted the router, and I said yes because I thought it'd be a separate box. I hate their router; it's too complicated to set up simple things like port forwarding, its range absolutely sucks, and it crashes constantly (as I said above). I was totally happy with my old Linksys router before I switched, which was hooked up to Cablevision's Motorola modem. This setup was rock solid for me. Does Verizon only give out this Actiontec junk?

I may not be 100% correct with this response, but I believe that the router is a key piece needed for the TV service. It controls the widgets and may even have something to do with the guide.

Question for Montgomery County, MD folks:

I'm jumping from DirecTV to Fios. I already have FIOS internet and Verizon phone service. I called and they said they can give me Fios TV Premium for $37.99, HD/DVR for $12.99, and extra set-top box for $4.99. Is that about what other folks have been offered in the area?

Do we need to sign up for a separate Local TV HD or regular service? I currently am using my RCA DTC-100 as my HD receiver. So I'm assuming the HD/DVR will replace that RCA. Will it record in HD as well? Their website wasn't clear and the Rep I talked too had no clue what I was talking about. OR is the Verizon unit smiply an HD receiver w/ a regular DVR built-in?

Can I plug the coax cables around the house to my regular TV's w/o a box? It's been so long since I've had cable...lol.

Thanks for any answers!!

Dizzy

Question for Montgomery County, MD folks:

I'm jumping from DirecTV to Fios. I already have FIOS internet and Verizon phone service. I called and they said they can give me Fios TV Premium for $37.99, HD/DVR for $12.99, and extra set-top box for $4.99. Is that about what other folks have been offered in the area?

Do we need to sign up for a separate Local TV HD or regular service? I currently am using my RCA DTC-100 as my HD receiver. So I'm assuming the HD/DVR will replace that RCA. Will it record in HD as well? Their website wasn't clear and the Rep I talked too had no clue what I was talking about. OR is the Verizon unit smiply an HD receiver w/ a regular DVR built-in?

Can I plug the coax cables around the house to my regular TV's w/o a box? It's been so long since I've had cable...lol.

Thanks for any answers!!

Dizzy

1. There is an online offer of 9.99 per month discount if you make a one year commitment. I ordered by phone and the CSR said that they would honor the online offer. Will wait for my first bill to see how many calls it will take to make it correct. It's good to start out with low expectations. Get the name of your CSR so if you have any problems down the road, you can tell whomever the name of the CSR that gave you the info.


2. You do not need to sign up for a separate service to get either local or national HD stations. They are all included in the premier package. The add ons are for the STBs, movie package (starz, the movie channel, encore, etc.), sports (golf channel, soccer channel, etc.), movie and sports together, HBO, Cinemax, Spanish Language, Karioke. The channel guide for Metro Washington is on the FIOS website. It is a printable pdf file.

3. There are 3 different STBs -- SD STB for 4.99 per month, HD STB for 9.99 per month and HD DVR for 12.99 per month. The HD DVR will record at the resolution of the show, HD for HD shows, SD for SD shows. You can use the HD DVR on an SD TV if you want to have DVR functionality on an SD TV. You just won't be able to watch HD programming on that set. For 19.99 a month, the HD DVR can be configured to stream recorded programs to any of the other boxes in your home. Currently, however, it can only stream SD content (not clear if it will stream HD recordings in SD or only SD recordings). This is even true of you are streaming the content to another HD box. It in our situation, the multiroom DVR did not make sense so we did not get that option. Also, I think there are still some bugs in the system.

4. Either the HD STB or the HD DVR will be used in place of your DirecTV receiver. I have no idea what the functionality of the RCA product is like. The Motorola boxes used by VZ are similar to the ones I had with Comcast. They work okay. Some things about the VZ setup are better, some worse. The Moto boxes have a bad rep for quality. Please be advised that VZ plans to roll out a new user interface including a new guide that is supposed to be much better than the one we have now.

5. If you want to receive all the channels, a TV must be hooked up to and STB. Without an STB, you can only view channels 2 to 49 (analog stations). The only exception is if you have a digital TV with a QAM tuner otherwise known as a digital cable ready set or DCR set. A DCR TV will also bring in the digital broadcasts of your local stations including HD content when they are broadcasting HD without the box. For example WRC in Washington broadcasts in both analog and digital. Analog is available to any TV. It is channel 4. With an STB, you can also get the digital broadcast which is channel 807. Sometime WRC broadcasts in SD, sometimes in HD, but 807 is always in digital. If you have a QAM tuner, WRC digital will be something like channel 4.1 (4.2 is their weatherplus channel). We rented STBs for all our TVs.

Hope this helps. If you are confused about anything, please ask.

I'm jumping from DirecTV to Fios. I already have FIOS internet and Verizon phone service. I called and they said they can give me Fios TV Premium for $37.99, HD/DVR for $12.99, and extra set-top box for $4.99. Is that about what other folks have been offered in the area?
I believe the "TV Premiere" service is $42.99/month for everybody. They are likely offering a $5/month discount to switch which I expect would have a time limit (6 months?). Is the extra set top box a SD box? If so, $5/month is the normal price. You can look up the prices at http://www22.verizon.com/content/fiostv/packages+and+prices/packages+and+prices.htm.

Do we need to sign up for a separate Local TV HD or regular service? I currently am using my RCA DTC-100 as my HD receiver. So I'm assuming the HD/DVR will replace that RCA. Will it record in HD as well? Their website wasn't clear and the Rep I talked too had no clue what I was talking about. OR is the Verizon unit smiply an HD receiver w/ a regular DVR built-in?
The Verizon HD-DVR is a Motorola QIP 6416 which does record in HD. They wouldn't call it a HD-DVR if it didn't record in HD (one would hope). It has a 160 GB HD which provides around 20 to 25 hours of HD recording time, so it can fill up quickly. Check the Verizon 6416 thread in the HDTV recorders forum for details.

The local and national HD channels are provided as part of the Premiere service. But you should check that the national HD channels are turned on before the installer leaves. It is easier to get them activated while the guy is there.

Can I plug the coax cables around the house to my regular TV's w/o a box? It's been so long since I've had cable...lol.
Only the local stations along with WGN are provided in analog in the channel 2 to 49 block. Everything else is digital (and the local channels are digitally simulcast as well). Check the channel line-up PDF file at the FiosTV website to see what they offer for channels 2 to 49 in your area. If you have a digital TV with a QAM tuner, the local HD and SD stations are sent in the clear.

Currently, however, it can only stream SD content (not clear if it will stream HD recordings in SD or only SD recordings). This is even true of you are streaming the content to another HD box.When I (briefly) checked out the MR-DVR functionality (no longer have it).

Only SD recordings can be streamed to the client STB. HD recordings aren't available at all (ie, it won't down-convert them on the fly).

Also, HD boxes couldn't be used as client boxes. Ie, only the SD STB could be used as a client box.

Thank you so much! It looks like we'll be jumping from DirecTV. I'm paying $53 right now under the old plan, except I didn't bother w/ HD cuz it didn't have local channels. They want me to pay $199 to upgrade to a new dish, receiver, etc...

I've tried the call and call again to get a different CSR, no dice. No biggie, their SD pixilation is terrible and based on MOST of the folks on FIOS TV, its MUCH better.

Can the HD DVR connect to the TV via VGA cable? Component cable? My old Sharpvisiion RPTV only uses those two to get HD signals. I might have to buy a convertor box if the Moto can't output via VGA.

Thanks for all of your help!

Dizzy

Thank you so much! It looks like we'll be jumping from DirecTV. I'm paying $53 right now under the old plan, except I didn't bother w/ HD cuz it didn't have local channels. They want me to pay $199 to upgrade to a new dish, receiver, etc...

I've tried the call and call again to get a different CSR, no dice. No biggie, their SD pixilation is terrible and based on MOST of the folks on FIOS TV, its MUCH better.

Can the HD DVR connect to the TV via VGA cable? Component cable? My old Sharpvisiion RPTV only uses those two to get HD signals. I might have to buy a convertor box if the Moto can't output via VGA.

Thanks for all of your help!

Dizzy

No VGA, but component works very well. Some people claim better PQ with component thatn HDMI.

Question for anyone that knows - do I *have to* use Verizon's wi-fi router? If I call and ask, will they replace it with a modem only? I think they did ask me when they installed it whether I wanted the router, and I said yes because I thought it'd be a separate box. I hate their router; it's too complicated to set up simple things like port forwarding, its range absolutely sucks, and it crashes constantly (as I said above). I was totally happy with my old Linksys router before I switched, which was hooked up to Cablevision's Motorola modem. This setup was rock solid for me. Does Verizon only give out this Actiontec junk?

Yes the Actiontech would be installed. It is needed to activate the STB's, access the guide, VOD, clock..etc. When the systems were first installed, Linksys routers were installed and were upgraded to MoCa capability by the use of an external NIM. This process has all but stopped though. You can however use the actiontech as a gateway and then use your own wireless router.

Thank you so much! It looks like we'll be jumping from DirecTV. I'm paying $53 right now under the old plan, except I didn't bother w/ HD cuz it didn't have local channels. They want me to pay $199 to upgrade to a new dish, receiver, etc...

I've tried the call and call again to get a different CSR, no dice. No biggie, their SD pixilation is terrible and based on MOST of the folks on FIOS TV, its MUCH better.

Thanks for all of your help!

Dizzy

The hardest thing for me was making the switch. Customer Retention offered me the moon. Free HD DVR / Turn the Leesed boxes into owned. But I had to change b/c I wanted my extra local HD's and PBS. But I am happy with Vz, especially when it rains.

We have had FIOS TV for three days. The only thing I am sorry about is that I did not have it sooner. So far the PQ on both HD and SD is as excellent as their internet service has been.

My only complaints are relatively minor (pgup pgdn issue on remote -- which is easily resolved by going on ebay or waiting until new interface is rolled out) lack of color coding on the guide to indicated sports, movies, etc. (again hopefully will be resolved with new interface. Tivo may have all these features that cable and FIOS DVRs don't but the DVR seems to work fine for me and the interface does not seem to be any better or worse than the Comcast interface. Supposedly the new interface will also provide a browser interface to allow customers to use their PCs to set recording. I am looking forward to that. It would be great if the browser interface also let customers set favorites and delete channels from the guide and change any setting that can be done though the STB.

Again, all these are minor. Content is great and expansive (watched the Man from UNCLE pilot the other night -- what a hoot). Kids like the additional channels. Discovery Kids seems to have some great programming and my 10 year old said it has fewer comercials which is a big benny. PQ is great. Even on my 16 inch Samsung CRT in the kitchen, the PQ is crystal clear. Comcast was always a bit fuzzy. I thought it was the TV. No, it was Comcrapstic. And with twice as many channels and an additional DVR, I'm saving money.

Other observations. Other than size, the Actiontec router seems okay for my wired network connections. I have not tested wireless yet and I am trying to configure my zyxel router as a wireless access point due to its excellent range and performance. VOIP switched over from the zyxel to the Actiontec without a hiccup. I still have breakup issues when I check work email from home using the barfy Lotus Notes client (seems to be a bandwidth hog). I need to play around with the Actiontec QoS settings to set aside bandwidth for VOIP. By the way, I use Voicepulse. Have had it since October and am very happy with it.

I'm sure there are customers here or there who have had problems with either install or service but if you are thinking about making a switch, don't let the small percent with problems deter you.

Thought I would post my FiOS experiences for comparisons. I switched from Comcast/TW in early January. I got 6 STB installed (3 SD, 2 DVR, 1 HD) and run three TV's straight from the wall. Had one installer, who called me about 8 AM to tell me he was on the way. Showed up about 20 minutes later and stayed about 4 hours. Install was perfect. He was very careful and neat and explained everything to me. Have had no service related issues since he left. I already had phone, added TV and the 15/2 internet package.

As for the router, mine has performed flawlessly. With Comcast/TW, I had one hardwired desktop on the second floor and ran two wireless desktops (one second floor, one first floor) and one laptop. I had VZ install the Actiontec in my entertainment center on the first floor and hardwired my xBox 360 into it. I run everything else wirelessly. My signal is good everywhere. I usually get either 36 or 54mps and my download speeds are in the 11-12k range which is to be expected with wireless. Plus one of the desktops still has a 802.11b wireless adaptor, so I run the Actiontec in b/g mode, which as I understand it is not as efficient as running in g only. Never had a disconnect as far as I know.

9 TVs :eek: dude, get a life. j/k :)

Yes the Actiontech would be installed. It is needed to activate the STB's, access the guide, VOD, clock..etc. When the systems were first installed, Linksys routers were installed and were upgraded to MoCa capability by the use of an external NIM. This process has all but stopped though. You can however use the actiontech as a gateway and then use your own wireless router.

How would I do this? I actually tried it initially but wasn't getting very good results speed-wise, and I had to open basically every port in order to do it.

I don't understand how it's needed to access the STB's - mine is not connected to my STB at all. I have one coax wire coming up from my basement going into the router, and another coax wire coming up from my basement going into the STB. I've gone down there and looked and both of these wires are split off from the same main wire. There's no wire going from the router to the STB.

I don't understand how it's needed to access the STB's - mine is not connected to my STB at all. I have one coax wire coming up from my basement going into the router, and another coax wire coming up from my basement going into the STB. I've gone down there and looked and both of these wires are split off from the same main wire. There's no wire going from the router to the STB.

There's no wiring from the router to the STB. However, the router is part of the total system and the information gotten by the router is sent back to the ONT and through the coax. I think I've got that right. If not, someone else will certainly clarify.

For LAN and IP traffic think of the coax as the typical CAT5 cable. In the FIOS world the coax doubles as both video and IP info delivery mechanism.

How would I do this? I actually tried it initially but wasn't getting very good results speed-wise, and I had to open basically every port in order to do it.

I don't understand how it's needed to access the STB's - mine is not connected to my STB at all. I have one coax wire coming up from my basement going into the router, and another coax wire coming up from my basement going into the STB. I've gone down there and looked and both of these wires are split off from the same main wire. There's no wire going from the router to the STB.

I have only tried this once, so I cant give you the exact way of doing it. I would try reseting your wireless router( not the Actiontech) before connecting it to the Actiontech. This would restore the settings and clear the ip address that it picked up (It may cause a conflict) Plug a network cable from one of the spare ports of the Actiontech to the WAN port of your router. Beyond that I am unsure of the settings needed if any. Check online for your particular router. As far as how the router/stb connection works, they all interface through the MoCa connection at the ONT. So the router doesnt actually connect to the STB, it is just branched into the coax wiring. If you access your router, you will notice that each STB has an IP assigned to it. Typically 192.168.1.100 101,102,103 etc.

Before switching from Cablevision to FIOS I have a few questions I can not seem to gat an answer for

1. Are the HDMI and Component Video outs active at the same time. The reason I ask is that sometimes my TV with the HDMI loses sync (handshake) between the cable box and TV so I just switch over to the component out. With the SA8300 all outputs are active at all times. So I just switch the video in on my TV. From the instructions on the Motorola box I can not tell

2. Does the Motorola box have an auto setting for directly outputting the signal from the broadcast station to the TV without any converting ? For example FOX TV putputs at 720P does that 720 P signal get sent to the TV as is or does it get upconverted to the setting you set for the TV example 1080i? The SA3800 has an auto setting that just passes through the signal. The reason I am concerned I do not want a double conversion being done since for example 720P to 1080i and than in my Qualia to 1080p. Double conversion usually degrades the picture Thanks in advance

Arnie

I can't really comment on your 1st ?-AFAIK no one has asked if the HDMI & component outs are active at the same time on the Moto box.

as far as the 2nd ? goes the Moto box has a an option called 4:3 Override which can be set to 480i or 480p res. I guess you could call this a semi-native output as it only affects SD signals.

the real issue is how well the Moto box handles scaling an SD signal to 1080i or 720p. the concensus seems to be-not very well at all. most FiOS subs report significant improvement in SD PQ by setting the box to 4:3 Override @ 480i. on the other hand in 18+ months of posts on this forum the worst i've read on FiOS HD PQ is that it's a little better than cable or sat.

as for double conversion-that's really a non-issue. if you feed your Qualia a 1080i signal it's simply deinterlacing it to 1080p-and it would do this regardless of your provider since there are no native 1080p broadcast/cable sources.

Before switching from Cablevision to FIOS I have a few questions I can not seem to gat an answer for

1. Are the HDMI and Component Video outs active at the same time. The reason I ask is that sometimes my TV with the HDMI loses sync (handshake) between the cable box and TV so I just switch over to the component out. With the SA8300 all outputs are active at all times. So I just switch the video in on my TV. From the instructions on the Motorola box I can not tell

2. Does the Motorola box have an auto setting for directly outputting the signal from the broadcast station to the TV without any converting ? For example FOX TV putputs at 720P does that 720 P signal get sent to the TV as is or does it get upconverted to the setting you set for the TV example 1080i? The SA3800 has an auto setting that just passes through the signal. The reason I am concerned I do not want a double conversion being done since for example 720P to 1080i and than in my Qualia to 1080p. Double conversion usually degrades the picture Thanks in advance

Arnie

I can definitively answer your second question. No. The 6416 STB from Motorola can be set to output one resolution only. You can set it to output 1080i, 720p, 480i, or 480p, but only one. Therefore, all programming gets converted to the output resolution you set it to.

Before switching from Cablevision to FIOS I have a few questions I can not seem to gat an answer for

1. Are the HDMI and Component Video outs active at the same time. The reason I ask is that sometimes my TV with the HDMI loses sync (handshake) between the cable box and TV so I just switch over to the component out. With the SA8300 all outputs are active at all times. So I just switch the video in on my TV. From the instructions on the Motorola box I can not tell

2. Does the Motorola box have an auto setting for directly outputting the signal from the broadcast station to the TV without any converting ? For example FOX TV putputs at 720P does that 720 P signal get sent to the TV as is or does it get upconverted to the setting you set for the TV example 1080i? The SA3800 has an auto setting that just passes through the signal. The reason I am concerned I do not want a double conversion being done since for example 720P to 1080i and than in my Qualia to 1080p. Double conversion usually degrades the picture Thanks in advance

Arnie


To answer the first question, yes, they are both active. I have to switch between mine sometimes for the same reasons.

I am about to get FIOS TV with the DVR. If I were to connect 2 D-VHS machines to the QIP-6416 via Firewire, could I record from each of the tuners in the DVR to the D-VHS recorders separately, so I could archive 2 shows at the same time?

In other words, will each D-VHS recorder see both of the QIP-6416's tuners, or will the QIP-6416 show as one device in the handshake process?

Thanks for any info, Steven.

I can definitively answer your second question. No. The 6416 STB from Motorola can be set to output one resolution only. You can set it to output 1080i, 720p, 480i, or 480p, but only one. Therefore, all programming gets converted to the output resolution you set it to.

That's not quite correct. You can have one rez for SD and one for HD. For SD, I think the best option is setting 4:3 override to 480i as previous poster mentioned. For HD, I have never found much of a difference between 720p and 1080i. I have it set to 720p because that's the native rez of my set. It be better IMO if the box allowed the user to send HD signals through untouched but it's not the case but then again, I'm not sure it really means much in terms of PQ.

I am having the FIOS Internet installed tomorrow here in Braintree, MA. TV not yet available but will make switch when it is. What I did not like is they gave me a window of between 8 and 5! It seems most people on this list had 5 hour windows, not 9.

Feel bad for the installer already because it's suppose to pour here tomorrow. They don't cancel installs because of weather, do they? That will suck since I have to take the day off.

Install should be interesting because phone box is on one side of house, but I want router on the other side. Current router is on 2nd floor just above where they will install ONT, but hooked to my father-in-law's old computer that is not used any more. From that router, we have about a 100 foot CAT5 run up to the attic, across the attic to newer addition side of house and than back down to basement where it goes into a 4 port gateway in a structured media panel. From that panel, all the rooms in newer part of house are hardwired and I have a wireless access point running from 2nd floor wall jack to give our laptops wireless access.

So basically he has to put ONT and backup on one side, run a long run across house to put router on first floor of other side and then I need him to run one line from the router to the structured media panel. I assume he would be willing to do this?

So basically he has to put ONT and backup on one side, run a long run across house to put router on first floor of other side and then I need him to run one line from the router to the structured media panel. I assume he would be willing to do this?

Seems like above and beyond the scope of a "typical" install. In the end, it probably depends on the installer. If it's late in the day and he's soaked, your chances might not be all that great.

Good luck.

Does anyone know of a website that shows where FIOS will be implemented in the relatively near future? Verizon's own site just offers to sign you up for a notification mailing list (but that feature didn't work on my Firefox browser). I wonder if and when it's coming to Cherry Hill.

Also curious about Verizon's customer support. I had a phone problem last year and it was very difficult to reach a human being! Comcast's support has been pretty good, but is needed too frequently.

Also curious about Verizon's customer support. I had a phone problem last year and it was very difficult to reach a human being! Comcast's support has been pretty good, but is needed too frequently.

My experience is that it's very easy to reach tech support, but hold times for customer service have been quite long. Certainly, some of that is dependent on day of the week/hour that you're trying to reach them.

Does anyone know of a website that shows where FIOS will be implemented in the relatively near future? Verizon's own site just offers to sign you up for a notification mailing list (but that feature didn't work on my Firefox browser). I wonder if and when it's coming to Cherry Hill.

Also curious about Verizon's customer support. I had a phone problem last year and it was very difficult to reach a human being! Comcast's support has been pretty good, but is needed too frequently.

At least here in Northern NJ, it's very easy to get through to technical support, but if you've got questions about your bill or anything else that requires the "business office," most of the time you get "Due to heavy call volume, your call cannot be answered at this time... ...if you need to speak to an agent please try your call again later."

I am having the FIOS Internet installed tomorrow here in Braintree, MA. TV not yet available but will make switch when it is. What I did not like is they gave me a window of between 8 and 5! It seems most people on this list had 5 hour windows, not 9.

Feel bad for the installer already because it's suppose to pour here tomorrow. They don't cancel installs because of weather, do they? That will suck since I have to take the day off.

Install should be interesting because phone box is on one side of house, but I want router on the other side. Current router is on 2nd floor just above where they will install ONT, but hooked to my father-in-law's old computer that is not used any more. From that router, we have about a 100 foot CAT5 run up to the attic, across the attic to newer addition side of house and than back down to basement where it goes into a 4 port gateway in a structured media panel. From that panel, all the rooms in newer part of house are hardwired and I have a wireless access point running from 2nd floor wall jack to give our laptops wireless access.

So basically he has to put ONT and backup on one side, run a long run across house to put router on first floor of other side and then I need him to run one line from the router to the structured media panel. I assume he would be willing to do this?

Not sure what they use in your area, but if they use the 611 ONT and the Actiontec, they do not do any Cat5 runs to the router. All traffic is carried over coax to the router. why can't the router go at the access panel to start with?

I am having the FIOS Internet installed tomorrow here in Braintree, MA. TV not yet available but will make switch when it is. What I did not like is they gave me a window of between 8 and 5! It seems most people on this list had 5 hour windows, not 9.

Feel bad for the installer already because it's suppose to pour here tomorrow. They don't cancel installs because of weather, do they? That will suck since I have to take the day off.

That 8-5 window is typical. In some cases the install could take the better part of the day. And no, no call-outs due to rain..

Install should be interesting because phone box is on one side of house, but I want router on the other side. Current router is on 2nd floor just above where they will install ONT, but hooked to my father-in-law's old computer that is not used any more. From that router, we have about a 100 foot CAT5 run up to the attic, across the attic to newer addition side of house and than back down to basement where it goes into a 4 port gateway in a structured media panel. From that panel, all the rooms in newer part of house are hardwired and I have a wireless access point running from 2nd floor wall jack to give our laptops wireless access.

So basically he has to put ONT and backup on one side, run a long run across house to put router on first floor of other side and then I need him to run one line from the router to the structured media panel. I assume he would be willing to do this?
The ONT placementwill largely depend on where and how the fiber is placed. If it is buried, then the installer is at the mercy of the burial crew. They typically only leave a few feet out of the ground at the house near the utilities. If its an aerial environment, choices may be a bit better, but that will depend on obstacles around the house. Just let the installer know ahead of time where you would like things place before they start.

Good luck

I am having the FIOS Internet installed tomorrow here in Braintree, MA. TV not yet available but will make switch when it is. What I did not like is they gave me a window of between 8 and 5! It seems most people on this list had 5 hour windows, not 9.

Feel bad for the installer already because it's suppose to pour here tomorrow. They don't cancel installs because of weather, do they? That will suck since I have to take the day off.

Install should be interesting because phone box is on one side of house, but I want router on the other side. Current router is on 2nd floor just above where they will install ONT, but hooked to my father-in-law's old computer that is not used any more. From that router, we have about a 100 foot CAT5 run up to the attic, across the attic to newer addition side of house and than back down to basement where it goes into a 4 port gateway in a structured media panel. From that panel, all the rooms in newer part of house are hardwired and I have a wireless access point running from 2nd floor wall jack to give our laptops wireless access.

So basically he has to put ONT and backup on one side, run a long run across house to put router on first floor of other side and then I need him to run one line from the router to the structured media panel. I assume he would be willing to do this?

When I first had FiOS internet installed, I had a similarly complex install. My installer had to make two long runs from the ONT and router area, one through the attic and one through the finished basement. Tons of complex fishing work. He wasn't psyched about it, but was more than willing to do it. I was one of the first people in my neighborhood to get it, so maybe that was a factor as they wanted positive word of mouth. But I believe Verizon is only using CWA union techs to do all their installs, not independent contractors like cable companies and Sat providers, so he's getting paid by the hour no matter how hard your install is, not by the drop like a independent contractor. Worst case is he may have to charge you extra, but I doubt seriously they would be unwilling to do it.

So far I have nothing but praise for Verizon installers and the Fios TV and Internet. I had two installers show up between 8-11am when I was told. One did the inside panel/battery stuff while the other did the outside wire stuff. Then the outside guy came in and hooked up the TV and computer while the other guy finished up in the basement.

I admit it was an easy install as my place is Ranch style with everything reachable from the basement and I only hooked up one TV and one computer for now. Still, it went smooth and they were in and out very quickly.

Does anyone know of a website that shows where FIOS will be implemented in the relatively near future? Verizon's own site just offers to sign you up for a notification mailing list (but that feature didn't work on my Firefox browser). I wonder if and when it's coming to Cherry Hill...See the FiOS TV discussion forum on DSLReports.com (http://dslreports.com/forum/vzfiostv) ... There are some threads on FiOS installation plans (rumors, etc.) in various areas.

I was a DirecTV / comcast internet / verizon analog customer. Early in December, I got an email notifying me that FIOS internet was available; knowing nothing about it, I ignored it for a while, but then got in contact with them and found out that I would save quite a bit by switching not just the internet portion but the phones as well. I went from 6/1Mbit service to 15/2 and equal quality phone service for about $70 less per month for both. At first I was leery of the phone change, since I thought it would be Voice over IP and I would need to get new hardware, etc. I was sold when told that if was fiber to the premises, using existing wiring.

The installation happened Dec. 26th and took about five hours. I have a plywood board on my basement wall where he put the battery backup for the network, the external box looks fine on my house wall, and he ran a CAT5E line from the basement to the second floor office where my router lives. At the time, I did'nt want the router installed, so we just hooked up the CAT5E line directly to my Belking pre-N wireless router. The router re-subscribed for an address automatically, and I was connected without taking any action. I got on broadbandreports and did a speed test, and on my wired computers got a consistent 14.5 - 15 Mbits down, 1.5-2 up. I was shocked, because even with paying extra for two more Mbits speed to comcast, the best I ever got with them was about 3 Mbits down. I've checked on a frequent basis on the wired lines since, and the speed remained the same. Very pleased. The installation was fine, the installer did his work and was very friendly and helpful, which is all I ask of installers.

Having had a great experience with this side of FIOS, I called and asked when the TV leg would be available. I was told that it was tied up in the politics of my town, since some people benefited from the local channel that COMCAST made available. I went to a couple of town meetings that addressed this, and finally it was approved at the end of february. This was driving me nuts, since as a birthday present my family had pooled money and bought me a VIZIO 1080p 47" tv. I first tried to upgrade through DirecTV, but they confronted me with having to pay $300 for a new HD DVR, then a $12 fee for leasing it (???) and a $9 fee for HD service. I hit the roof, since I have been a long time DirecTV customer, with a full programming package, 3 DVR's and one set top box. By the time I was done adding up the charges, I was looking at adding an extra $50 / month to have high definition. I looked to COMCAST for relief, but their charges added up to an extra $65 / month. I stayed with an over the air antenna (great alternative by the way) that I bought for $40 and crossed my fingers for FIOS TV to become available.

I checked on a daily basis for availability, and finally about two weeks ago, it was there. I signed up on a thursday and was given a Monday installation. I took the day off, as they quoted me an 8-5 time frame. The installer showed up at 10 (he called at 9 to give a heads up) and asked for my patience, since it was his third installation. I asked if he had done other video installations, and he said yes, but not FIOS. I told him to take his time, since I wanted everything working well. He took six hours to go through, but was extremely thorough, checking the signal for every line. He didn't have to run any coax, since the DirecTV installation (two coax lines per TV) left plenty. He connected the ActionTec router, but since I wanted to keep my pre-N router to handle the wireless, I asked him to shut down the wireless on the ActionTec. A couple of calls to his home office and that was done. My router setup now looks like this: ActionTec (access point) -> Belkin pre-N -> ethernet switch; still have solid internet performance. The TV's all came up, and outside of some HD channels not coming in initially, nothing else needed fixing.

Two issues came up after the installation. One of the DVR's (my mother-in-law's) started making a high whining noise. The other was that one of the channels I wanted (Fox Soccer Channel) was not there. I called technical support (got through within a minute) and a swap out was arranged for next monday. I got a call yesterday that they could come today (two days after calling them) and I just got a call from my mother-in-law that they are replacing it now. The missing channel apparently was moved to a different number, but the channel listing was not updated. The technician said that is apt to happen, since they are having trouble keeping up as they add new channels. One really good thing I noticed was that in the initial channel listing, NESN (home to the Red Sox and Bruins and the lovely Hazel Mae) HD was not available (NESN SD was), but in flicking through the HD channels, there it was. I mentioned this to the tech, and she said 'oh yeah - that was added last week'.

Hopefully this hasn't been too long a post, but I am very satisfied with the installation and the great response to the service request. The HD quality is superb, the SD quality is also great, the DVR interface takes some getting used to since I switched from Tivo, but I was facing that anyways, since DirecTV severed its relationship with Tivo, two of my DirecTV units had non-Tivo interfaces. I'm still learning how to interact with the Motorola boxes (my HD DVR is the multi-room DVR) and am pretty satisfied. The remotes have been Ok, but my HD remote is a Logitech Harmony 870 anyways, and I have ordered two more for the other DVR's so I expect no problem from that area.

Overall, a great installation for a somewhat complex setup and so far great service on all fronts. Couldn't ask for more.

The DVR is not real good and has a small HD. If you don't do much taping then it's a non-issue. Also, when we cancelled FIOS we received a bill several months later for 1750.00 in equipment charges. If anyone gets the service and cancells make sure you keep your equipment receipt. I had the receipt and their system shows that I returned the equipment but there was a mistake and somehow it went to a collection agency. I had service for 3 days and then cancelled because of their DVR.

The DVR is not real good and has a small HD. If you don't do much taping then it's a non-issue. Also, when we cancelled FIOS we received a bill several months later for 1750.00 in equipment charges. If anyone gets the service and cancells make sure you keep your equipment receipt. I had the receipt and there system shows that I returned the equipment but there was a mistake and they somehow it went to a collection agency. I had service for 3 days and then cancelled because of their DVR.

So far, we have some taped shows, I understand the limits of the smaller disks, but I also am going from some older TIVO boxes that only had 30 hours of SD capacity, so it's not like we are used to 80 - 100 hours. In SD recording capacity, we may be actually stepping up. I'm hoping they will upgrade later to larger capacity or that they enable the USB port to allow a hard drive hook up.

Hopefully this hasn't been too long a post, but I am very satisfied with the installation and the great response to the service request. The HD quality is superb, the SD quality is also great, the DVR interface takes some getting used to since I switched from Tivo, but I was facing that anyways, since DirecTV severed its relationship with Tivo............

Welcome to the forum. Yes, very long post. Try to keep them shorter as not sure how many will take the time to read a long post.

However, I did, and glad you had a great installation experience. I just recently converted from Dish & Comcast, and very glad I did.

You might want to consider springing for the new Tivo Series 3. It takes two cable cards which Verizon gets $3 for each of them. Although, you might now want to spend the money. But the Tivo functionality, combined with the Verizon TV service is a great combination, at least IMO.

Glad you're happy and enjoy your new installation.

So far, we have some taped shows, I understand the limits of the smaller disks, but I also am going from some older TIVO boxes that only had 30 hours of SD capacity, so it's not like we are used to 80 - 100 hours. In SD recording capacity, we may be actually stepping up. I'm hoping they will upgrade later to larger capacity or that they enable the USB port to allow a hard drive hook up.
The 6416 160 GB HD provides around 20 to 25 hours of HD recording capacity depending on the program and HD channel. I have found this limited capacity to be a nuisance, but my previous Motorola 6412 DVR from Adelphia had a 120 GB HD, so it was even more limited. I did have a Series 2 Tivo at one time, but eventually dropped it after getting a HD TV over 2 years ago.

The reaction to the Fios DVR depends a lot on where you are coming from. Most cable systems use the Motorola or Scientific Atlanta HD-DVRs. Before Fios, I had a 6412 from Adelphia and before that - at another place - a SA 8000 HD-DVR from Comcast. The SA 8000 HD-DVR had major limitations compared to the Fios DVR. The 6416 from Fios is less buggy and more reliable than the 6412 firmware I had with Adelphia. If you are coming from DBS with there DVRs with higher capacity, then you may find the 6416 to be to small and the software limited.

From my perspective, the 6416 is adequate for the job for now. I may get a Series 3 Tivo later this year depending on the prices & costs and what improvements we get with the long promised software upgrade for the current 6416s.

It is not the USB port you would use for expanding capacity, but the eSATA port. Fios has stated that they will enable that port, hopefully sometime later this year, when the software passes all the DMR testing requirements at the industry lab. The last I read, the Series 3 Tivo was still waiting on a software upgrade to enable the eSATA ports on those machines as well.

If money is no object then FIOS and TiVo is the way to go. Unfortunately it's very expensive. I currently have Directv and there new HD dvr had some software issues but has been rock sold so far. It has very good functionality, a 300 gb HD, an active esata port for an external HD and many cool features.

Hopefully this hasn't been too long a post, but I am very satisfied with the installation and the great response to the service request. The HD quality is superb, the SD quality is also great, the DVR interface takes some getting used to since I switched from Tivo, but I was facing that anyways, since DirecTV severed its relationship with Tivo, two of my DirecTV units had non-Tivo interfaces. I'm still learning how to interact with the Motorola boxes (my HD DVR is the multi-room DVR) and am pretty satisfied. The remotes have been Ok, but my HD remote is a Logitech Harmony 870 anyways, and I have ordered two more for the other DVR's so I expect no problem from that area.

Overall, a great installation for a somewhat complex setup and so far great service on all fronts. Couldn't ask for more.

In this case the long post was much appreciated since I have FIOS internet, phone, and tv installation tomorrow morning. They called today to confirm the install - so far so good.I read especially with interest the fact that you kept your own router and had them shut off the wireless feature of the actiontec. I like my current netgear router and do not use wireless at this time. I was worried about security issues with the wireless config.
Since I have never used a DVR, it sounds like I will be pleased. Of course, the ability to eventually expand the hd with an external will be great.

Thanks for the post

I like my current netgear router and do not use wireless at this time. I was worried about security issues with the wireless config.


I had a Linksys router, prior to getting my Verizon install. After consulting the manual, I was able to get the Actiontec router to do everything I needed it to do, including wireless encryption and port forwarding.

I had FiOS installed on Tuesday here in NJ. I recommend it highly that you supervise what the installers are doing and find out in advance where they will be running the wires.

I was at work, and since my wife was at home with 2 kids, she wasn't following them around to check progress. It turns out they took the easy way out, and needless to say, when I got home I was not happy. There were wires draped across the roof of my garage, and wires on the inside running straight down the walls.

I spent all day yesterday trying to get someone on the phone to set up an appointment to fix this mess. Finally got someone and they'll be at my house tomorrow morning at 8:30. We'll see.

I have a question though. I asked this over in the LCD forum too, but maybe someone here has experienced it as well. I have a Sharp Aquos LC46D62U. I have never had HD set up until Tuesday so can't compare it to anything. I think the picture looks outstanding, even SD. But I noticed when I view from the side, the picture looks cloudy or washed out. And the side angle is not that dramatic. The TV is supposed to have a 170 degree viewing angle. From the front it looks fantastic.

In the other forum someone with D* had the same problem, but when they went from a regular HD receiver to an HD DVR, the issue went away. I don't have any other receivers to try.

Has anyone else experience this with FiOS specifically? And if so, can anyone suggest any solutions.

Thanks.

I had FiOS installed on Tuesday here in NJ. I recommend it highly that you supervise what the installers are doing and find out in advance where they will be running the wires.

I was at work, and since my wife was at home with 2 kids, she wasn't following them around to check progress. It turns out they took the easy way out, and needless to say, when I got home I was not happy. There were wires draped across the roof of my garage, and wires on the inside running straight down the walls.

I spent all day yesterday trying to get someone on the phone to set up an appointment to fix this mess. Finally got someone and they'll be at my house tomorrow morning at 8:30. We'll see.

I have a question though. I asked this over in the LCD forum too, but maybe someone here has experienced it as well. I have a Sharp Aquos LC46D62U. I have never had HD set up until Tuesday so can't compare it to anything. I think the picture looks outstanding, even SD. But I noticed when I view from the side, the picture looks cloudy or washed out. And the side angle is not that dramatic. The TV is supposed to have a 170 degree viewing angle. From the front it looks fantastic.

In the other forum someone with D* had the same problem, but when they went from a regular HD receiver to an HD DVR, the issue went away. I don't have any other receivers to try.

Has anyone else experience this with FiOS specifically? And if so, can anyone suggest any solutions.

Thanks.

I'm in northern nj (bergen county) and plan to be home all day and "supervising" the install.
I've found and read that most lcd's have this limitation. However, most of the reviews I've read for the upscale models state that this is much less of a problem. I would be surprised to learn that the source is the problem. As long as the front on picture is great, the display should be the weak link. You should get more feedback over on the lcd forums.

I had FiOS installed on Tuesday here in NJ. I recommend it highly that you supervise what the installers are doing and find out in advance where they will be running the wires.

I was at work, and since my wife was at home with 2 kids, she wasn't following them around to check progress. It turns out they took the easy way out, and needless to say, when I got home I was not happy. There were wires draped across the roof of my garage, and wires on the inside running straight down the walls.

I spent all day yesterday trying to get someone on the phone to set up an appointment to fix this mess. Finally got someone and they'll be at my house tomorrow morning at 8:30. We'll see.

I have a question though. I asked this over in the LCD forum too, but maybe someone here has experienced it as well. I have a Sharp Aquos LC46D62U. I have never had HD set up until Tuesday so can't compare it to anything. I think the picture looks outstanding, even SD. But I noticed when I view from the side, the picture looks cloudy or washed out. And the side angle is not that dramatic. The TV is supposed to have a 170 degree viewing angle. From the front it looks fantastic.

In the other forum someone with D* had the same problem, but when they went from a regular HD receiver to an HD DVR, the issue went away. I don't have any other receivers to try.

Has anyone else experience this with FiOS specifically? And if so, can anyone suggest any solutions.

Thanks.

Thanks for the tip. They will be coming to my place tomorrow for FiosTV/Internet installation.

As for your question, I believe what you see on your LCD is normal. Claims for 170 degrees LCD viewing angle are greatly exaggerated. We have the 26 inch version of your Aquos in our daughter's bedroom and it requires a sweet spot for getting the best viewing experience. This is, of course, the wrong thread to start a LCD vs. Plasma vs. CRT debate.

FredB

As for your question, I believe what you see on your LCD is normal. Claims for 170 degrees LCD viewing angle are greatly exaggerated. We have the 26 inch version of your Aquos in our daughter's bedroom and it requires a sweet spot for getting the best viewing experience. This is, of course, the wrong thread to start a LCD vs. Plasma vs. CRT debate.

FredB

I hear what you're saying and not looking to hijack the thread. I just know that other people who have similar sets and I haven't seen the problem. I'm heading back to the LCD forum.

Thanks.

I hear what you're saying and not looking to hijack the thread. I just know that other people who have similar sets and I haven't seen the problem. I'm heading back to the LCD forum.

Thanks.


Picture does fade on all LCD's when viewed at an angle, no exceptions! It just so happens that some people (like you and me!) are more sensitive to this than others. I should know, as I have all three formats in my house and can easily tell the difference. FredB

Same here...it tends to get overly contrasty when viewed from the side but it doesnt bother me too much.

Not sure what they use in your area, but if they use the 611 ONT and the Actiontec, they do not do any Cat5 runs to the router. All traffic is carried over coax to the router. why can't the router go at the access panel to start with?

That's what they wound up doing...don't know why I was thinking CAT5 from the box where my prior service was coax to the the modem. Install went fairly well, he arrived around 10:00 and finished about 3. Several times other Verizon trucks showed up, but they appeared to be just stopping by to chat.

After some consideration whether to put the ONT inside or out, installer decided outside. I would say about 3 hours of the 5 were spent outside and in installing the battery back up inside. As Tarheel72 points out, he piggybacked on my cable company's coax....using the long run around the house that goes to my media panel. After getting it all wired, I asked that the router be placed in my living room (plugged into CAT5 wall jack). That's where we ran into a small snag. He could not get the router to connect. Since the run from the ONT went into my media panel and into a bidirectional amplifier (1 in, 8 out)...it would not connect as the amplifier was interfering. The solution was simple as we just isolated which coax out from the amplifier was wired to my living room and and he put a splitter on the inbound coax with one going to the amp to feed TV to rest of the house and then the other going to the coax line feeding my living room.

Once that was done, set up was a breeze and I was up and running on my laptop within 10 minutes. Installer had me do some tweaks to boost speed, check my tv to make sure picture was ok, especially HD, and made sure other computers were being recognized. He left me with his cell number in case of any problem. By time he was done it was raining/snowing/sleeting (pick one or all!) so he was going to come back today to pull the old phone line off the house. I tipped him, but had to really force him before he agreed to take it.

I purchased the 20/5 plan and on my laptop using wireless, my first speed test was 15 down and 3 up. My wired computer was 18.5/4.4. Overall I am pretty impressed with installation and with the speed! I spent the rest of the night setting up 2 other computers and setting the router to allow my Slingbox to connect remotely. Before FIOS, at work I was gettings 180 to 230 Kbps on Slingbox, today with FIOS I am at 550 to 625. So almost 3 times faster which makes a big difference with the picture (as I watch Dice-K's first start for the Red Sox).

Now I cannot wait for the TV package. Installer said October for Braintree...he's the second to tell me that. He did say that they are ready for TV, once they get approval all they need to do is "flip a switch" at the office (and of course install in homes). For those who have TV...when it became available, do they offer it to customers who have Internet first? :D

One question, not sure if anyone can help me. Last night my laptop battery died and the laptop went into hibernation and when I booted back up, I could not reconnect to the ActionTech router. The wireless icon on my laptop showed the network and full speed, but limited connectivity. The only way to get access again was to reboot the router. I assume this is a computer issue not the router?

Sounds like your wireless connection on the laptop was unable to obtain an IP address from the router after the reboot. Assuming you're running Windows XP in the future I would attempt to repair your wireless connection before rebooting the router. Here's how to do that: Start>Control Panel>Network Connections> Right click on the wireless connection and choose repair. That forces the network connection to re-obtain an IP address from the router/DHCP server.

Picture does fade on all LCD's when viewed at an angle, no exceptions! It just so happens that some people (like you and me!) are more sensitive to this than others. I should know, as I have all three formats in my house and can easily tell the difference. FredB
You mean 3 of the 4 formats. Plasma, LCD, DLP, and CRT! :)