Confirmed - VZ has a press release up....

http://newscenter.verizon.com/press-releases/verizon/2008/verizons-tv-franchise.html

Verizon's TV Franchise Agreement With City of New York Receives Confirmation From New York PSC

Final Governmental Step Makes TV Choice a Reality for New Yorkers; Stage Is Set for FiOS TV Launch in Coming Weeks

July 16, 2008

Media Contact:
John Bonomo, 212-321-8033

NEW YORK - The New York State Public Service Commission (PSC) on Wednesday (July 16) confirmed the agreement between Verizon and The City of New York for Verizon to provide TV service to all five boroughs of the city, and bring competition in the TV market. The company will provide the service through its state-of-the-art, all-fiber-optic FiOS TV network. The confirmation follows an agreement on April 29 by the city's Department of Information Technology and Telecommunications to accept the Verizon proposal, and approval by the city's Franchise and Concession Review Committee on May 27. The PSC confirmation today is the final governmental and regulatory step in Verizon's plan to offer FiOS TV service to New York City residents. The following statement on today's New York PSC confirmation should be attributed to Monica Azare, Verizon senior vice president for New York and Connecticut.

"Today is a great and historic day for New York City residents. After decades of being locked into one cable TV provider, consumers here soon will have more choices, better entertainment, and a superior customer service experience. When we launch our FiOS TV service in the city in the coming weeks, consumers will be amazed at the comprehensive channel lineup, the vast number of high-definition offerings, the clarity of the picture, and the real value they will be receiving for their entertainment dollar. All these benefits will be brought to New Yorkers by Verizon's revolutionary all-fiber-optic technology, straight to consumers' doors.

"Already, interest by the average New Yorker has been staggering. In the past few weeks, we have been taking orders in the New York City launch neighborhoods for Verizon's triple play of FiOS TV, FiOS Internet and wired, reliable telephone service.

"We will have more to say soon about the introduction of FiOS TV service in New York City. But for now, we're thrilled to be able to bring FiOS TV to the people of New York."

NEWS!!!

The New York State Public Services Commission approved Verizon's franchise agreement with the City of New York for television service TODAY....July 16, 2008!!

Time Warner...Cablevision.... YOUR MONOPOLY IS OVER!!!!
FIOS is an attractive possibility. I would miss NY1, MSG-HD, MSG2-HD, MSNBC. MSNBC should be available by year's end. The others ? Who knows.

I'll wait a short while. See how TWC responds to the new kid in town..

FIOS is an attractive possibility. I would miss NY1, MSG-HD, MSG2-HD, MSNBC. MSNBC should be available by year's end. The others ? Who knows.

I'll wait a short while. See how TWC responds to the new kid in town..Also CNN HD, FOX News HD, plus several other minor HD channels. Don’t get me wrong. Once my neighborhood gets it’s belly full of fiber—I’m in. I’ll take the improved picture quality and lower (albeit temporary) monthly rates.

FiOS has CNN HD

Yeah, I just discovered that... thanks.;)

I'm in a co-op in Bayterrace Bayside 11360 and added fios TV. My install date is 8/20 and can't wait to dump TWC. :D

I'm in a co-op in Bayterrace Bayside 11360 and added fios TV. My install date is 8/20 and can't wait to dump TWC. :DI’m probably a mile from you in North Flushing. There was a Verizon guy working on the phone box for my street. I was dying to ask him about when we should be getting our fiber but he didn’t look like he wanted to stop and chat.

I’m not going to get too excited until I see multiple trucks working in my area with giant spools of glass (or however this thing works).

I’m probably a mile from you in North Flushing. There was a Verizon guy working on the phone box for my street. I was dying to ask him about when we should be getting our fiber but he didn’t look like he wanted to stop and chat.

I’m not going to get too excited until I see multiple trucks working in my area with giant spools of glass (or however this thing works).

VZ came to our coop and asked for permission to run fiber in our buildings about 1 1/2 years ago; the work was done in about 2 weeks. When our TWC 3 year subscriber agreement for the entire coop expired, we only re-upped for a 1 year agreement knowing full well that most residents were going to dump TWC when NYC signed the franchise agreements w/ VZ. I can't wait ... :D

HD Channels Available on Verizon

CBS2-HD
NBC4-HD
FOX5-HD
ABC7-HD
MY9-HD
CW11-HD
PBS13-HD
SportsNet New York-HD
YES-HD
ESPN-HD
ESPN2-HD
ESPN News-HD
ESPNU-HD
MOJO
Universal-HD
TNT-HD
TBS-HD
DHDT
HDNet
HDNet Movies
MHD
A&E-HD
History Channel-HD
Lifetime Television-HD
Lifetime Movie Network-HD
NFL Network-HD
Big Ten Network-HD
Golf/Versus-HD
Food Network-HD
HGTV-HD
National Geographic-HD
CNN-HD
The Outdoor Channel-HD
The Weather Channel-HD
The Science Channel-HD
The Discovery Channel-HD
The Learning Channel-HD
Animal Planet-HD
Wealth TV-HD
USA-HD
Sci-Fi-HD
Bravo-HD
CNBC-HD
FX-HD
Speed-HD
Disney Channel-HD
ABC Family-HD
Toon Disney-HD
Biography-HD
Planet Green-HD
Hallmark Movie Channel-HD
Travel Channel-HD
Fox News-HD
Fox Business Network-HD
WGN-HD
The Tennis Channel-HD
QVC-HD
World Fishing Network-HD
MGM-HD
HBO-HD
HBO2-HD
HBO Family-HD
HBO Comedy-HD
HBO Signature-HD
HBO Zone-HD
HBO Latino-HD
Cinemax-HD
MoreMax-HD
ActionMAX-HD
5StarMAX-HD
ThrillerMAX-HD
WMAX-HD
@MAX-HD
OuterMAX-HD
Showtime-HD
Sho Too-HD
ShowCase-HD
ShowExtreme-HD
The Movie Channel-HD
TMCxtra-HD
Starz-HD
Starz Comedy-HD
Starz Edge-HD
Starz Kids & Family-HD


HD Channels Not Available on Verizon

Rave-HD
Equator-HD
Gallery-HD
Animania-HD
Rush-HD
Ultra-HD
Monsters-HD
HD News
Film Fest-HD
Kung Fu-HD
WorldSport-HD
World Cinema-HD
Gameplay-HD
Family Room-HD
Treasure-HD
MSG-HD
MSG+-HD
IFC-HD
AMC-HD
WE-HD
FUSE-HD
PPV-HD
MOD-HD
NBA TV-HD
NHL Network-HD
Game-HD (MLB Extra Innings & NHL Center Ice in HD)
Team-HD (NBA League Pass in HD)
Cartoon Network-HD
Fuel-HD
Spike-HD
Nickelodeon-HD
County Music Channel-HD
MTV-HD
VH1-HD
CBSCS-HD
TBN-HD
RFD-HD
Encore-HD
BBC America-HD --- (Channel Launching in Fall of 2008)
Crime & Investigation HD --- (Channel Launching in Q4 2008)
TV One-HD --- (Channel Launching in Q4 2008)
HSN-HD --- (Channel Launching in Q4 2008)
MSNBC-HD --- (Channel Launching in Q4 of 2008)
Golf-HD (Full Time) --- (Channel Launching in December 2008)
Versus-HD (Full Time) --- (Channel Launching in December 2008)
E! Entertainment-HD --- (Channel Launching in December 2008)
Style-HD --- (Channel Launching in December 2008)
G4-HD --- (Channel Launching in December 2008)
ION TV-HD --- (Channel Launching in 2008)
SI TV-HD --- (Channel Launching in 2008)
Chiller-HD --- (Channel Launching in 2008)
Sleuth-HD --- (Channel Launching in 2008)
MLB Network-HD --- (Channel Launching in 2009)
OWN-HD (Discovery Health) --- (Channel Launching in 2009)
BTNC-HD --- (Channel Launching in 2009)
Al Jazeera-HD --- (Channel Launch TBA)
Soundtrack Channel-HD --- (Channel Launch TBA)
ShowBeyond-HD --- (Channel Launching in Q1 2009)
ShowWomen-HD --- (Channel Launching in Q1 2009)
ShowFamilyZone-HD --- (Channel Launching in Q1 2009)
ShowNext-HD --- (Channel Launching in Q1 2009)
FLIX-HD --- (Channel Launching in Q1 2009)
Comedy Central-HD --- (Channel Launch Rumored)
BET-HD --- (Channel Launch Rumored)
MTV2-HD --- (Channel Launch Rumored)
TruTV-HD --- (Channel Launch Rumored)
Headline News-HD --- (Channel Launch Rumored)
Oxygen-HD --- (Channel Launch Rumored)

It appears that Fios will have 100 HD channels in NY by 8/1!
Nothing official yet.

http://www.dslreports.com/forum/r20836841-100-HIDef-Channels-by-81~start=20

I'm sorry, but holy crap! They even have WGN HD. TWC doesn't even have WGN, period!

It also is available in my area, I have had Fios Broadband for close to two years now, was eagerly waiting for Fios TV, now that it is here, I am not so sure to drop TWC, since they give me 50 plus HD channels which look great, and I also get MSG HD "FiosTV does not offer it", I get to watch my Rangers in HD, and Knicks "ouch", if they add MSG HD "which I think will be a bit hard "Dolan" the Cable man will be hard pressed to grant them rights.

It also is available in my area, I have had Fios Broadband for close to two years now, was eagerly waiting for Fios TV, now that it is here, I am not so sure to drop TWC, since they give me 50 plus HD channels which look great, and I also get MSG HD "FiosTV does not offer it", I get to watch my Rangers in HD, and Knicks "ouch", if they add MSG HD "which I think will be a bit hard "Dolan" the Cable man will be hard pressed to grant them rights.

If Dolan is going to continue to play hardball, he can at least make MSG-HD & MSG+-HD available to areas outside the Cablevision Footprint.

http://policyblog.verizon.com/PolicyBlog/Blogs/policyblog/EricRabe9/515/Why-Verizon-Doesn-t-Offer-MSG-in-HD.aspx

It's clear from the comments at PolicyBlog and in other forums that
consumer demand for high-definition programming is skyrocketing.
Verizon is responding by adding new HD channels across the FiOS TV
footprint, with the goal of offering all available major HD
programming by the end of this year.

But sometimes cable companies play hardball with HD programming they
control. Take the MSG regional sports network in New York City and
the MSG-Buffalo channel that we want to be able to offer to future
customers in that market.

Standing in the way is Cablevision, which owns MSG and is preventing
competitors like Verizon getting MSG – a channel that is subject to
the Cable Act's program access rules – in HD format. Under those
rules, Cablevision is required to make that programming available to
Verizon. In 2006, after we filed a program access complaint with the
FCC, Cablevision agreed to provide the standard definition version of
the MSG regional sports network in New York City. But so far
Cablevision is refusing to provide the HD feed for the same
programming.

So we're back at the Federal Communications Commission, which is
considering various issues concerning access to video programming.

It's pretty obvious that Cablevision is trying to circumvent the
FCC's program access rules by denying Verizon MSG in HD – claiming
that just because Cablevision elects to route the HD format over
fiber, it is somehow not the same "programming" as the standard
definition format delivered using satellites. And as if
Cablevision's motives in evading the program access were not clear
enough, after denying us the HD MSG programming, Cablevision
advertises that it is the only carrier to provide it in HD.

Verizon is asking the FCC to condemn these practices and to clarify
that, if programming is subject to the FCC's rules as Cablevision's
MSG channels are, then competitive providers are entitled to that
programming in all available formats. In other words, the cable
incumbents should not be permitted to circumvent the rules and deny
competitors and consumers the benefits of HD.

It's official, Verizon delivers 100 HD channels!

http://newscenter.verizon.com/press-releases/verizon/2008/verizon-fios-tv-delivers-100.html

Dead link : "We're sorry but the page you requested cannot be found."

http://newscenter.verizon.com/press-releases/verizon/2008/verizon-fios-tv-delivers-100.html

It was on the news radio this morning 800AM, in regards about Verizon and Fios TV to be available to the whole City.

It was on the news radio this morning 800AM, in regards about Verizon and Fios TV to be available to the whole City.

FiOS will made available throughout the city - but and it's a big but -
only when your neighborhood is wired - and if you live in an apartment building, only when FiOS negotiates a deal with the landlord.

Looks like Verizon started hanging fiber this week in the Shenorock section of Somers.
A few months ago they pulled it through the buried conduits around the northern end of the Amawalk reservoir. Now they have begun hanging it on the poles starting at Miller Road off 202 and you can see the runs starting down each side street hanging in loops.

Lets hope the franchise gets settled soon so they can light it up!

I just got a notice yesterday that my building is being wired for FIOS on Monday. AFAIK, this means FIOS TV will be available in my home more or less immediately. Is there anyone in this thread who has yet reported having FIOS in Manhattan?

I'm heavily leaning towards making the switch from TWC for the following reasons:

1) much more expansive HD offerings (particularly the secondary feeds of the premium movie channels);

2) the hope of better picture quality (a brief bit of reading has given me the impression that there is generally less compression on FIOS);

3) faster internet speeds (not sure about this one); and

4) to give my business to someone other than TWC.

Two things might hold me back. First, the absence of MSG HD. I'm not a Knicks or Mets fan, but I am a big sports fan so I will be missing a lot of MLB and NBA in HD. However, I'm hopeful that the FCC will soon clean up this nonsense and FIOS will begin carrying the HD feed. I don't believe my MLB extra innings package will be transferable to FIOS so I might wait until October.

Also, I'm going to have to do some research on the DVR hardware and software. I'd be surprised to find out that what FIOS offers doesn't measure up to TWC, but I'll want to look into it first.

Off to read other FIOS related threads.

I don't believe my MLB extra innings package will be transferable to FIOS so I might wait until October.


Did FIOS even get the sports packages yet? :confused:

I think so (not NFL). Can anyone confirm?

The Mets have their own network SNY which FiOS has in HD. It's been years since MSG carried the Mets, so the only teams you would miss would be the hockey teams in HD and the Knicks.

Right. Whoops.

No problem. Even though I only truly follow the Yanks, it's a mistake anybody could make. The bigger mistake would be to pay the Dolans more money considering the products they provide. You would be making the smart move to go to FiOS.

Is there any problems with Fios TV Filters??. Do you need them??or not??Any one know??

I can't wait till FIOS is in Flushing. I am getting so sick of Time Warner. Internet speed sucks and disconnects every 1-2hrs. Cable is so unpredictable. Audio constantly drops out, picture gets pixelated and choppy. Oh yea, and they keep increasing their prices but the service diminishes with each increase. Come on Verizon, HURRY UP!!!

Was watching Ferris Bueller's Day Off the other night in beautiful OAR HD on one of the HBO-HD channels and audio/video signal was momentarily dropping out about every 30 seconds to a minute. Anyone else in NY area experiencing persistent audio/video drops/breaks on any of the new HBO-HD channels in the 900s?

Anybody recently order new FIOS service in Manhattan? They said they can't make an installation appointment until over a month away. Seems like a long time especially for a new building that is pre-wired.

Is there any problems with Fios TV Filters??. Do you need them??or not??Any one know??

Not sure what you mean by a "TV filter".

I just got a notice yesterday that my building is being wired for FIOS on Monday. AFAIK, this means FIOS TV will be available in my home more or less immediately. Is there anyone in this thread who has yet reported having FIOS in Manhattan?

I'm heavily leaning towards making the switch from TWC for the following reasons:

1) much more expansive HD offerings (particularly the secondary feeds of the premium movie channels);

2) the hope of better picture quality (a brief bit of reading has given me the impression that there is generally less compression on FIOS);

3) faster internet speeds (not sure about this one); and

4) to give my business to someone other than TWC.

Two things might hold me back. First, the absence of MSG HD. I'm not a Knicks or Mets fan, but I am a big sports fan so I will be missing a lot of MLB and NBA in HD. However, I'm hopeful that the FCC will soon clean up this nonsense and FIOS will begin carrying the HD feed. I don't believe my MLB extra innings package will be transferable to FIOS so I might wait until October.

Also, I'm going to have to do some research on the DVR hardware and software. I'd be surprised to find out that what FIOS offers doesn't measure up to TWC, but I'll want to look into it first.

Off to read other FIOS related threads.

FiOS does NO compression at all. The signal recieved from the providers is passed along directly thru the FiOS network.

Faster internet speeds is a funcion of which level of service you decide to purchase. There are 4 levels of service available, with the fastest FiOS pkg at 50/20.

I would appreciate any insights from people in Manhattan that have switched from TWC to Verizon FIOS. I am moving into a (supposedly) pre-wired bulding and I am thinking about ditching TWC for Verizon FIOS for phone/internet/HDTV, but I know Verizon's customer service well, and I am hesitant. Any info would be appreciated.

I would appreciate any insights from people in Manhattan that have switched from TWC to Verizon FIOS. I am moving into a (supposedly) pre-wired bulding and I am thinking about ditching TWC for Verizon FIOS for phone/internet/HDTV, but I know Verizon's customer service well, and I am hesitant. Any info would be appreciated.

There is ample information here and on dslreports. There are pro's and cons to all services, but FIOS blows away all competitors imho. No competition on quality. No competition on channel selection (SD & HD). DVR is a bit buggie at times, but solid overall.

Do your homework, but I am sure you will see that it is the right choice.

I am hesitant to switch to verizon since you have to sign up for a year with a hefty early cancellation fee. Is there a trial period? Will they waive the fee if you press them? Thanks

There is ample information here and on dslreports. There are pro's and cons to all services, but FIOS blows away all competitors imho. No competition on quality. No competition on channel selection (SD & HD). DVR is a bit buggie at times, but solid overall.

Do your homework, but I am sure you will see that it is the right choice.

Thanks. I'll take some more time to search. And I've found that my TWC DVR is still buggy, too, so that may be a wash.

I'm interested in knowing the price of everyone's first bill if that's available with taxes, fees, and of course sir charge. If the second bill is available I would also like to know. I'm thinking of getting the $95 package with the one year agreement(Cable,internet, Phone).

I've been waiting for FIOS for years and really can't wait to dump TWC. The only thing stopping me from doing so is the absence of MSNBC from the FIOS lineup...in an election year like this one, I really can't live without it (and the forthcoming addition of Rachel Maddow's show will just make things all that sweeter). MSNBC seems like a really standard channel that every cable system in the universe carries (to balance out Fox News, if nothing else), so I'm mystified by its absence. Do we know much yet about Verizon's willingness to add channels/responsiveness to subscriber requests to do so?

In any event, once the election is behind us, the temptation may prove too strong to resist. We'll see...

Does Verizon not carry msnbc at all? Or just not in HD?

I've been waiting for FIOS for years and really can't wait to dump TWC. The only thing stopping me from doing so is the absence of MSNBC from the FIOS lineup...in an election year like this one, I really can't live without it (and the forthcoming addition of Rachel Maddow's show will just make things all that sweeter). MSNBC seems like a really standard channel that every cable system in the universe carries (to balance out Fox News, if nothing else), so I'm mystified by its absence. Do we know much yet about Verizon's willingness to add channels/responsiveness to subscriber requests to do so?

In any event, once the election is behind us, the temptation may prove too strong to resist. We'll see...

The Dolans/Cablevision have an exclusive contract with MSNBC in the NY area. Nobody knows when the current contract runs out. This topic hs been covered in other VZ programming threads if you want to check it out further.
I do not regret switching to VZ at all - forget MSNBC - check it on the WEB if you enjoy their leftist communist liberal Obama- worshipin' commentary (just half-kidding ! :) )

I second that. You can easily get the complete show podcasts within 2 hours or so of the end of the show. Just use your favorite podcast receiver.

If the Dolans and Cablevision have an exclusive deal w/ MSNBC, how is TWC able to include the channel?

See http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=10383222&highlight=msnbc#post10383222 posts 141 et seq. There has been posts sprinkled throughout AVS but i found this one with a quick search

If the Dolans and Cablevision have an exclusive deal w/ MSNBC, how is TWC able to include the channel?

TWC's footprint doesnt impact cablevisions footprint

Just moved into a newly constructed building but I'm not sure if Verizon got it's hands on it yet to wire anything.

However, what happens if half the people in our building choose the status quo with TWC and others like myself want Verizon? Does it have to be a whole building decision or can it be wired individually for each apartment?

I completely understand the frustration with MSNBC. Here is where you need to let that whole net neutrality thing work in your favor. Verizon's got fast speeds and just suck up the whole MSNBC debacle with Cablevision and sock it the Dolan's by going to FiOS. Eventually Verizon will have the clout to get that channel. The best way to go about it is to keep the money out of the Dolan's hands.

Just moved into a newly constructed building but I'm not sure if Verizon got it's hands on it yet to wire anything.

However, what happens if half the people in our building choose the status quo with TWC and others like myself want Verizon? Does it have to be a whole building decision or can it be wired individually for each apartment?

VZ needs permission from the building owners to build. Contact your management group and tell them that as a paying tenant you want FIOS.

The agreement must be ending soon because there has been a lot of chatter around the net about new negotiations.

Verizon has filed with the FCC a complaint against Cablevision over their refusal to allow broadcast of the MSG HD channels and FSNY HD, which CV owns.

The more people that switch away from CV, the better. Nothing makes corporate America wake up than changes in the cash flow.

nothing makes corporate america wake up than changes in the cash flow.

Indeed!

Anyone who received there "free" digital adapters notice that August's bill no longer shows them as a charge/credit ?
They're (I have 2) not even listed anywhere on the bill.

Also, I had signed up in March for the 3 pack @ 2 yrs @ $99.95/mo and now it's dropped down to $94.95/mo. That , of course, is a good thing.

Oh, and one more : I had the movie package and HBO @ $31.99/mo and now they added Cinemax @ $29.99 for all 3.
With all the new HD channels, this is a great deal !!

I had a D2D visit me last night, long story short this was the offer :

99.99 Triple Freedom - Premium (20/20 internet is $5 more a month, works for me)
30.00 HBO, Cinemax & Movies package - 71 TOTAL movie channels, including all associated On Demand programming for each.
12.00 - 2 SD set-top boxes
0.00 (for the first year, 20.00 potentially after 1 year) Multi-room HD DVR
~20.00 in taxes

TOTAL - 161.00. That includes my phone as well and the only thing I'd lose would be three-way calling (not a big loss to me). As for TV I'd be getting practically all they have to offer plus all the premium movies and 20/20 internet.

I'm currently paying TWC $160 for 1 HD DVR (non-multi) and 2 extra STB's, with advertised 10/less than 1 internet. Add on my Phone bill ($60) and Long Distance ($10) and I'd essentially be saving $70 if I made the switch.

The only caveats I have are what happens after a year - will they allow me to renew at these rates again? Also I read that their DVR's are less then stellar, even compared to TWC's newer DVR's (I still have my wonderful 8300HD, I'll really be sad to see it go if I switch).

Also, I asked about my mother in law in the side apartment, if she'd be effected and they said no - in fact if I wanted to I could add on TWO MORE BOXES to replace hers and she would pay a whopping $14 for her programming, which would be our programming. I told him how could this be, isn't her apartment considered another dwelling and they said it wouldn't matter with the TV service. Can this be right?

Just got it installed today and I must say I'm not too impress. The HD channels look just ok compared to TWC and the Standard Def channels look pretty DNR'd and blurry compared to what I was getting from TWC. The coming HD channels better make up for it!

Just got it installed today and I must say I'm not too impress. The HD channels look just ok compared to TWC and the Standard Def channels look pretty DNR'd and blurry compared to what I was getting from TWC. The coming HD channels better make up for it!

This should not be the case. Are you certain that everything is cabled properly to your TV? Perhaps you should post your settings in the main Verizon HD thread, there are tons of people out there who can help you troubleshoot.

HD should be crisper, and SD should look great on an HD set vs what you were getting.

This should not be the case. Are you certain that everything is cabled properly to your TV? Perhaps you should post your settings in the main Verizon HD thread, there are tons of people out there who can help you troubleshoot.

HD should be crisper, and SD should look great on an HD set vs what you were getting.


I agree. I have never read anyone feeling that PQ was WORSE - maybe the same, but not worse.

I switched from Cablevision and my HD PQ was somewhat better and glitch-free and my SD PQ was much better. Sounds like something is wrong.

The more people that switch away from CV, the better. Nothing makes corporate America wake up than changes in the cash flow.

Isn't that the samething people said about verizon when other phone companys first came out?:eek:

I'm thinking about switching from Time Warner to FIOS. I don't need phone service. Are the contracts negotiable? If so, how or where do I get the best deal? TIA.

verizon was stringing fiber outside my condo in brooklyn last week .. zip code 11235. i checked today if i could get an update on when the service would be available and just got a 'we will let you know'

The Verizon FIOS TV website said that my new apt building in Manhattan(10029) had TV availability....so I ordered it over TWC. They let me place a full order for TV and internet and let me schedule a time to have the installation guy come out. I'm assuming that means my new building is/was wired for FIOS TV.

I just bought two new HD TVs and I don't want the DISMAL DISMAL DISMAL HD selection that TWC provides. I guess I'll see when they show up in a week and a half.

I would love to hear from those of you that made the switch from TWC to Verizon. What are your thoughts? Better? Worse? Why?

I am a current TWC customer thinking of making the switch.

TIA

My installer is coming today, we already had FiOS internet and phone, so we're ditching TWC for FiOS TV. I'll let you know how it is.

HD Channels Available on Verizon

CBS2-HD
NBC4-HD
FOX5-HD
ABC7-HD
MY9-HD
CW11-HD
PBS13-HD
SportsNet New York-HD
YES-HD
ESPN-HD
ESPN2-HD
ESPN News-HD
ESPNU-HD
MOJO
Universal-HD
TNT-HD
TBS-HD
DHDT
HDNet
HDNet Movies
MHD
A&E-HD
History Channel-HD
Lifetime Television-HD
Lifetime Movie Network-HD
NFL Network-HD
Big Ten Network-HD
Golf/Versus-HD
Food Network-HD
HGTV-HD
National Geographic-HD
CNN-HD
The Outdoor Channel-HD
The Weather Channel-HD
The Science Channel-HD
The Discovery Channel-HD
The Learning Channel-HD
Animal Planet-HD
Wealth TV-HD
USA-HD
Sci-Fi-HD
Bravo-HD
CNBC-HD
FX-HD
Speed-HD
Disney Channel-HD
ABC Family-HD
Toon Disney-HD
Biography-HD
Planet Green-HD
Hallmark Movie Channel-HD
Travel Channel-HD
Fox News-HD
Fox Business Network-HD
WGN-HD
The Tennis Channel-HD
QVC-HD
World Fishing Network-HD
MGM-HD
HBO-HD
HBO2-HD
HBO Family-HD
HBO Comedy-HD
HBO Signature-HD
HBO Zone-HD
HBO Latino-HD
Cinemax-HD
MoreMax-HD
ActionMAX-HD
5StarMAX-HD
ThrillerMAX-HD
WMAX-HD
@MAX-HD
OuterMAX-HD
Showtime-HD
Sho Too-HD
ShowCase-HD
ShowExtreme-HD
The Movie Channel-HD
TMCxtra-HD
Starz-HD
Starz Comedy-HD
Starz Edge-HD
Starz Kids & Family-HD


HD Channels Not Available on Verizon

Rave-HD
Equator-HD
Gallery-HD
Animania-HD
Rush-HD
Ultra-HD
Monsters-HD
HD News
Film Fest-HD
Kung Fu-HD
WorldSport-HD
World Cinema-HD
Gameplay-HD
Family Room-HD
Treasure-HD
MSG-HD
MSG+-HD
IFC-HD
AMC-HD
WE-HD
FUSE-HD
PPV-HD
MOD-HD
NBA TV-HD
NHL Network-HD
Game-HD (MLB Extra Innings & NHL Center Ice in HD)
Team-HD (NBA League Pass in HD)
Cartoon Network-HD
Fuel-HD
Spike-HD
Nickelodeon-HD
County Music Channel-HD
MTV-HD
VH1-HD
CBSCS-HD
TBN-HD
RFD-HD
Encore-HD
BBC America-HD --- (Channel Launching in Fall of 2008)
Crime & Investigation HD --- (Channel Launching in Q4 2008)
TV One-HD --- (Channel Launching in Q4 2008)
HSN-HD --- (Channel Launching in Q4 2008)
MSNBC-HD --- (Channel Launching in Q4 of 2008)
Golf-HD (Full Time) --- (Channel Launching in December 2008)
Versus-HD (Full Time) --- (Channel Launching in December 2008)
E! Entertainment-HD --- (Channel Launching in December 2008)
Style-HD --- (Channel Launching in December 2008)
G4-HD --- (Channel Launching in December 2008)
ION TV-HD --- (Channel Launching in 2008)
SI TV-HD --- (Channel Launching in 2008)
Chiller-HD --- (Channel Launching in 2008)
Sleuth-HD --- (Channel Launching in 2008)
MLB Network-HD --- (Channel Launching in 2009)
OWN-HD (Discovery Health) --- (Channel Launching in 2009)
BTNC-HD --- (Channel Launching in 2009)
Al Jazeera-HD --- (Channel Launch TBA)
Soundtrack Channel-HD --- (Channel Launch TBA)
ShowBeyond-HD --- (Channel Launching in Q1 2009)
ShowWomen-HD --- (Channel Launching in Q1 2009)
ShowFamilyZone-HD --- (Channel Launching in Q1 2009)
ShowNext-HD --- (Channel Launching in Q1 2009)
FLIX-HD --- (Channel Launching in Q1 2009)
Comedy Central-HD --- (Channel Launch Rumored)
BET-HD --- (Channel Launch Rumored)
MTV2-HD --- (Channel Launch Rumored)
TruTV-HD --- (Channel Launch Rumored)
Headline News-HD --- (Channel Launch Rumored)
Oxygen-HD --- (Channel Launch Rumored)Hey Andy, do you know if this list is up to date? :) Not that I have FIOS as an option yet—I want to keep informed so when it finally lands in my neighborhood, after I jump for joy, I can hit the ground running.

Hey Andy, do you know if this list is up to date? :) Not that I have FIOS as an option yet—I want to keep informed so when it finally lands in my neighborhood, after I jump for joy, I can hit the ground running.
The Official AVS National HD Channel Lineups - Cable, DBS, Fiber - Updated 8/30/08! (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1058081)

Hey Andy, do you know if this list is up to date? :) Not that I have FIOS as an option yet—I want to keep informed so when it finally lands in my neighborhood, after I jump for joy, I can hit the ground running.

yes, it is extremly up to date. and If you dont care for MSG & MSG+ in HD then you must switch.

The Official AVS National HD Channel Lineups - Cable, DBS, Fiber - Updated 8/30/08! (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1058081)
;) Thanks, but I prefer Andy’s more succinct list.

Originally Posted by AndyHDTV
yes, it is extremly up to date. and If you dont care for MSG & MSG+ in HD then you must switch.I definitely need MSG HD (for the Knicks, don’t care as much for the Rangers) but I would guess that FIOS will have them eventually.

Do you have an idea when MSG HD is available thru Verizon? Thank you!

Do you have an idea when MSG HD is available thru Verizon? Thank you!

I spoke with a Verizon engineer last week (on an unrelated issue) and he said that their main office was working on it. He didn't give me any time frame.

I spoke with a Verizon engineer last week (on an unrelated issue) and he said that their main office was working on it. He didn't give me any time frame.

Thank you, I'm going to switch from TWC to Verizon. When the Knicks starts winning, MSGHD should be ready.

MSG HD is a non factor for me. Knicks in HD will not sway my decision in anyway. After watching FIOS TV in two different cities and getting 20x the internet speed that I getting with TW, FIOS is a must.

Do you have an idea when MSG HD is available thru Verizon? Thank you!
Probably won't be there for years, until FiOS has the same penetration rate in the NYC metro area as DirecTV does. Then Guitar Jimmy Dolan [feeling that he'll need the money] will sell VZ all the HD channels his company controls. Until then, or until legislation or some other part of the legal process forces the issue ... enjoy the Rangers and "Mad Men" on FiOS in glorious 4x3.
Hey - it took a good 5+ years to get MSG HD onto DirecTV.

Hey, what about MSNBC HD?

Hello,
For all the people that switched from TWC to Fios, Is the picture quality that noticeable?

My installer is coming today, we already had FiOS internet and phone, so we're ditching TWC for FiOS TV. I'll let you know how it is.

How's the FiOS TV? Good Picture/HD? My concern is will Verizon need to running coax thru my apartment. Did Verizon use the TWC coax or did they re-run new coax to your TV set? Thank you.:confused:

Hello,
For all the people that switched from TWC to Fios, Is the picture quality that noticeable?

Just switched from TWC to FIOS yesterday.
YES, 100%!!! Colors much more vivid and less blurring/macroblocking during fast-moving scenes. Transformers would be and is a good test. Much, much better with FIOS.


Jose.

Just switched from TWC to FIOS yesterday.
YES, 100%!!! Colors much more vivid and less blurring/macroblocking during fast-moving scenes. Transformers would be and is a good test. Much, much better with FIOS.


Jose.


I'm glad to hear that. Where are you located? I've got my installer coming on Tuesday.

What did they have to do in your building to get it hooked up? I wonder how they work it if half the building uses TWC and half uses FIOS.

I'm glad to hear that. Where are you located? I've got my installer coming on Tuesday.

What did they have to do in your building to get it hooked up? I wonder how they work it if half the building uses TWC and half uses FIOS.

Yes, I was wondering the same. I just order the FiOS TV part, since I already have the Internet and phone. Did they re-use the coax from TWC? Thanks!:confused:

Anyone in downtown Manhattan get FIOS yet? I'm dying to get rid of RCN.

I'm glad to hear that. Where are you located? I've got my installer coming on Tuesday.

What did they have to do in your building to get it hooked up? I wonder how they work it if half the building uses TWC and half uses FIOS.

I'm in downtown Manhattan, Stuyvesant Town. You will love it. Good luck!

Yes, I was wondering the same. I just order the FiOS TV part, since I already have the Internet and phone. Did they re-use the coax from TWC? Thanks!:confused:

They were able to re-use the coax from TWC. It was fairly new. They did some tests on all wirings just to confirm.

Jose.

Hopefully someone can answer this question...
I have 2 HD Tv's and 1 SD TV.
If I subscribe to Fios and get a multi-room DVR on one of my HD Tv's, can I watch programs recorded to that DVR on the other HD and SD Tv's? Would I need DVR's on the other 2 Tv's?
The FIOS rep on the phone told me that it wouldn't work between HD and SD Tv's but maybe he misunderstood me. I find this hard to believe.

Hopefully someone can answer this question...
I have 2 HD Tv's and 1 SD TV.
If I subscribe to Fios and get a multi-room DVR on one of my HD Tv's, can I watch programs recorded to that DVR on the other HD and SD Tv's? Would I need DVR's on the other 2 Tv's?
The FIOS rep on the phone told me that it wouldn't work between HD and SD Tv's but maybe he musunderstood me. I find this hard to believe.

The FiOS rep told me something different, I am getting 1 HD-DVR setup and 1 SD box. She inform me that I can still watching my DVR programming via the multi-room DVR on the SD box....

The FiOS rep told me something different, I am getting 1 HD-DVR setup and 1 SD box. She inform me that I can still watching my DVR programming via the multi-room DVR on the SD box....

Right now you cannot stream from mrdvr to hd box, but imminent software release will allow it.

You can stream to SD box, but not if it is an HD program.

Article from Bloomberg News on FIOS and Time Warner

Verizon Takes Cable Fight to Tishman Buildings With Chips, Goo

By Amy Thomson


Sept. 11 (Bloomberg) -- In a south Manhattan manhole last month, Verizon Communications Inc. workers coated an inch-wide fiber-optic line with goo to slide it past crowds of cable- television wires under the street.

If only it were so easy to slip past the competition.

Verizon, the phone company spending $23 billion to get into the U.S. TV market, is up against price discounts and advertising campaigns by rivals as it seeks a foothold in New York. The Verizon FiOS package of video, phone and Internet access debuted July 28 in the largest U.S. city, where the company is giving away HBO movies and throwing parties at apartment buildings to win customers.

``New York would be their biggest opportunity, so if that doesn't go well, it would be a bad sign,'' said Todd Rethemeier, a New York-based Soleil Securities analyst. He advises holding onto the stock and called success in fiber optics ``critical.''

The city of more than 8 million may be a bellwether for FiOS across the country, where the market for what's known as triple- play bundles may balloon 50 percent to more than $110 billion by 2012.

Time Warner Cable Inc. rules in Manhattan. Cablevision Systems Corp. dominates Brooklyn and the Bronx.

Verizon, the second-largest U.S. phone company after AT&T Inc., also is contending with an economic slowdown that is limiting consumer spending. That may stymie efforts to use service bundles to make up for its fixed-line business, which accounts for half of revenue and is shrinking amid cable competition.

Guinea Pig

FiOS offers Web-based TV that is streamed down fiber optic lines underground and into homes. The all-fiber system differs from what's offered by AT&T, which uses a mix of fiber and older copper wires.

The FiOS technology provides the fastest Internet speed in the U.S., Verizon says. Installation can take up to 6 hours.

``I feel a little guinea-pig-like,'' Jay Amato said as workers threaded wire from a hub on the floor below into a closet by the door of his 1,900-square-foot Tribeca apartment overlooking the Hudson River. After watching Internet TV for the first time, he said it was ``great.''

Verizon started FiOS in 2004 in Keller, Texas, outside Dallas, and is now breaking into cities, including St. Petersburg, Florida, and Providence, Rhode Island.

In New York, where the carrier is based, officials waited until suppliers such as Corning Inc. began selling fiber that can be bent around corners of buildings without losing signal or strength. Verizon then struck agreements to promote the service with landlords, including Tishman Speyer Properties LP, owner of the 11,232-unit Stuyvesant Town and Peter Cooper Village.

Fighting Cable

``In its own backyard, near the headquarters, it's extremely important to have its best product,'' said Wachovia Securities Inc. analyst Jennifer Fritzsche in Chicago, who advises investors to hold the shares and doesn't own any.

FiOS has 1.38 million TV subscribers, while Time Warner Cable has 13.3 million. By the end of 2010, FiOS will be available to 18 million U.S. households, according to Verizon. In New York's five boroughs, the company's plan is to install fiber optic lines to 3.1 million homes by 2014.

FiOS phone, Internet and TV costs $94.99 a month in Manhattan. For new customers, Time Warner Cable sells a three- year deal for its cheapest package, with slower Internet service, for $89.95 a month in the first year and $104.95 the next two.

About 70 percent of local FiOS subscribers switch from cable service, said Courtney Johnson, FiOS operations manager for Southern Manhattan.

Verizon fell 51 cents to $34.72 yesterday in New York Stock Exchange composite trading. The stock has lost 20 percent this year.

Sharp Message

Verizon marketers spend three or four nights a week in apartment lobbies wooing customers with chips, soda and one-on- one demonstrations. They sign up 20 to 30 people a night, account manager Debbie Roth said. In boroughs outside Manhattan, where there are more single family homes, they throw neighborhood barbeques.

To fight back, Time Warner Cable is running ads telling customers ``Don't be Ed,'' a man whose yard was destroyed during a FiOS installation. Cablevision spokesman Jim Maiella said its ads highlight ``unique'' features such as free wireless Internet access and a caller ID that appears on the TV screen.

``We've sharpened our message a little bit to call them out directly,'' Time Warner Cable spokesman Alex Dudley said.

Slowdown

Last quarter, Verizon TV subscriptions rose 15 percent from the quarter before. A year earlier, second-quarter subscriptions were up 48 percent.

Verizon spokeswoman Bobbi Henson attributed slowing growth to promotions a quarter earlier. FiOS TV's penetration rates, the percentage of the covered population that subscribes to the service, have risen every quarter, she said.

The slowdown is partly because cable providers' ads are proving effective and also is a response to the slump in the housing market, Rethemeier said. It's easier to get consumers to switch service when they move, and fewer people are moving now.

``The cable companies have gotten more on the ball with marketing, marketing their triple plays in order to retain customers,'' Rethemeier said.

To contact the reporter on this story: Amy Thomson in New York at athomson6@bloomberg.net

Last Updated: September 11, 2008 00:01 EDT

I'm in downtown Manhattan, Stuyvesant Town. You will love it. Good luck!

Jose,

I live in Stuyvesant Town as well and I am due for installation this Saturday morning. If you don't mind me asking how did your installation go? Also, did they need to have access to the closet by the front door? If so, I got a lot of cleaning to do :D

Thanks,
Keith

Jose,

I live in Stuyvesant Town as well and I am due for installation this Saturday morning. If you don't mind me asking how did your installation go? Also, did they need to have access to the closet by the front door? If so, I got a lot of cleaning to do :D

Thanks,
Keith

Yes, they need access to 1/2 the closet closest to front door. I had to do some cleaning also. Installation went fine but it took almost 6 hours to set up 3 TVs, 3 computers and phone. Techs were late 2 hours but were very patient, thorough and knowledgeable.
Internet speed is about 25% faster than I ever got with TWC.

You will love it, Keith. Good luck and let us know how you like it.

Jose.

Yes, they need access to 1/2 the closet closest to front door. I had to do some cleaning also. Installation went fine but it took almost 6 hours to set up 3 TVs, 3 computers and phone. Techs were late 2 hours but were very patient, thorough and knowledgeable.
Internet speed is about 25% faster than I ever got with TWC.

You will love it, Keith. Good luck and let us know how you like it.

Jose.

Hey thanks for the reply Jose. Guess I better get cracking on the closet. Hopefully my installation goes a little quicker, I have 2 TV's, a desktop, a laptop and phone.

I will definitely report back once they are finished.

Yes, they need access to 1/2 the closet closest to front door. I had to do some cleaning also. Installation went fine but it took almost 6 hours to set up 3 TVs, 3 computers and phone. Techs were late 2 hours but were very patient, thorough and knowledgeable.
Internet speed is about 25% faster than I ever got with TWC.

You will love it, Keith. Good luck and let us know how you like it.

Jose.


I'm glad they are competent and knowledgeable but six hours? I have one computer that needs setting up and 3 TVs. Actually I just want them to make their connection live for the computer.....I'll add the wireless routing and the rest.

Right now you cannot stream from mrdvr to hd box, but imminent software release will allow it.

You can stream to SD box, but not if it is an HD program.


Anyone know approximately when this "imminent" release will be rolled out?

Also, how many hours of SD & HD recording can you record to the DVR?

TIA

How's the FiOS TV? Good Picture/HD? My concern is will Verizon need to running coax thru my apartment. Did Verizon use the TWC coax or did they re-run new coax to your TV set? Thank you.:confused:

I'm in a detached house, so it was more complicated, and took longer because the TWC guy needlessly put a splitter, but IIRC they used the same wires. I'm sure it would be easier in an apartment. The PQ is amazing...there are so many HD channels. Even SD channels look good...I can't praise it enough.

Yes, they need access to 1/2 the closet closest to front door. I had to do some cleaning also. Installation went fine but it took almost 6 hours to set up 3 TVs, 3 computers and phone. Techs were late 2 hours but were very patient, thorough and knowledgeable.
Internet speed is about 25% faster than I ever got with TWC.

You will love it, Keith. Good luck and let us know how you like it.

Jose.



My experience yesterday was great as well. It is a MUCH better service on all fronts although be prepared for a very long installation. Fortunately mine was a short installation(3-4 hours) because there was already verizon fiber coming into my apartment and they basically put a light splitter box inside the fiber/cable box in my closet(fit in there perfectly...took up no closet space). Then they have to test all the wiring in your apartment. If you have an older place or need to run more coax cable then you're in for a longer installation. The guy said it was not uncommon for them to be at places for 6 or more hours.

But these guys are patient, knowledgeable, and get the job done. I was amazed last night looking at all the HD channels I have not to mention all the free on-demand stuff I get.


Very glad I went with Verizon over TWC. I'm sure Verizons prices will go up...but as of now this whole package is far superior IMO.

Anyone know approximately when this "imminent" release will be rolled out?

From what fios said on the phone, you will need a new box to do that. Which they are only testing now in a few areas.
So you can hurry-up and wait.:eek:

Has anyone in Manhattan made the jump from Time Warner to Fios? If so, can you comment on any differences in picture quality?

Has anyone in Manhattan made the jump from Time Warner to Fios? If so, can you comment on any differences in picture quality?

insomniac99, I made the switch on Friday from Time Warner to FiOS and IMO the picture is much more clear and sharp. The installation was only for TV service, since I already had internet/phone. The total installation time was about 3 hours, tech needed to installed a ground cable for TV service.. The bad thing is the ground cable was GREEN:eek:, it's running thru my wall into my bedroom (which I can NOT hide)... There's more HD channels, but no MSG..:mad:

My girlfriends home for all phone, 3 boxes(multiroom dvr, 2 hd) and 'net took a whole business day(9 to after 6) to complete in Marine Park(11234), BK on Monday. They're happy though.
BTW is it possible like my TWC boxes where I can plug in a esata drive and add storage capacity to the dvr?

insomniac99, I made the switch on Friday from Time Warner to FiOS and IMO the picture is much more clear and sharp. The installation was only for TV service, since I already had internet/phone. The total installation time was about 3 hours, tech needed to installed a ground cable for TV service.. The bad thing is the ground cable was GREEN:eek:, it's running thru my wall into my bedroom (which I can NOT hide)... There's more HD channels, but no MSG..:mad:


carlcox, thanks a lot for your input. I had heard mixed information regarding whether FIOS picture quality was better or worse than that of my local Time Warner Cable. The extensive and intrusive installation is a little worrisome.

I'm totally with you on the MSG HD! That was actually one of the reasons I haven't taken the plunge yet. No excuse for no MSG HD in New York City.

carlcox, thanks a lot for your input. I had heard mixed information regarding whether FIOS picture quality was better or worse than that of my local Time Warner Cable. The extensive and intrusive installation is a little worrisome.

I'm totally with you on the MSG HD! That was actually one of the reasons I haven't taken the plunge yet. No excuse for no MSG HD in New York City.

You can thank Cablevision for refusing to offer MSG HD to Verizon.

carlcox, thanks a lot for your input. I had heard mixed information regarding whether FIOS picture quality was better or worse than that of my local Time Warner Cable. The extensive and intrusive installation is a little worrisome.

I'm totally with you on the MSG HD! That was actually one of the reasons I haven't taken the plunge yet. No excuse for no MSG HD in New York City.
I first saw Fios quality picture at a friends down in Atlanta where they have AT&T's U-Verse. Now having seen Fios in person in BK, I can definitely saw it is head and shoulders better than my TWC service in Queens.

There is WAY LESS artifacting on HD channels with fast motion images, ie. Paladia and Sports. Also the quality of the SD channels is substantial over TWC's would be comparable offering. Many of the SD channels when upconverted from the STB don't show signs of heavy artifacting, something we've grown to accept from TWC.

If I weren't locked into a long term agreement with TWC I would consider moving. The only things I don't like with the Fios serivce is that you have to go a few menus deep into the On Demand service to access the HBO or SHO OnDemand offerings, as compared to jumping to 220 or 200 on TWC. That and not having a "LIVE" button on the remote is confusing as it something I use frequent with my TWC DVR.

You can thank Cablevision for refusing to offer MSG HD to Verizon.

Yep, the Dolans are never going to give MSG HD to "phone company TV"

Yep, the Dolans are never going to give MSG HD to "phone company TV"

Who needs MSGHD when you got QVC IN HD?!?!?!?

Would you agree though that atleast the SD pq of MSG is better on Fios than on TWC?

Yep, the Dolans are never going to give MSG HD to "phone company TV"

When one of two things happen:

1) The FCC orders them to. This is something that VZ is working on.

2) There are so many Fios customers that MSG-TV would make more money from the increased ad revenue from the larger audience. Remember, as more CV people move to Fios, they lose audience and eventually ad rates go down.

Hi all,

I live in Brooklyn and have set up an appointment to get FIOS in mid-October. I have two questions that I can't seem to get a satisfactory answer to from Verizon (and I'm hoping that's not a bad sign...):

1. Are SNY and YES part of the Extreme HD package? When he signed me up for that package, the (door-to-door) salesperson told me they are, but I can't seem to get that substantiated.

2. Does Verizon offer Clear QAM on the local channels in New York City (especially in Brooklyn)? I've got digital sets that I don't want to attach a box to if it's not necessary (I will be getting at least one box for premium content).

Thanks in advance...

David Ross

I'm in Stuy Town. After 30 years of TWC (well, after they bought Manhattan Cable) I have to say the techs were well organized and were ready to resolve any problems. Have a projector that uses the HDMI with no audio - it seems to Moto box cuts out the analog outputs with HDMI. Had to use the optical audio out - news to me and the techs. One had even went back to the truck to get another box before I tried the optical outs. The tech called back today and left his cell phone number in case I had any problems.

The image quality for TV is certainly better and the net downloads HD trailers in better than realtime - have to say I'm a satisfied customer!

Hello All,
I just ordered my FIOS it will be installed on Oct 13th. Can anybody tell me if you get the VS channel in HD. I want to at least watch some hockey in HD.

Hello All,
I just ordered my FIOS it will be installed on Oct 13th. Can anybody tell me if you get the VS channel in HD. I want to at least watch some hockey in HD.
Yes. I watched a WEC Highlights show at my girlfriends house briefly this week on vshd, just like with TWC it's listed as VSHD/GolfHD. No idea if it's apart of a package or not but they have it.

Hello All,
I just ordered my FIOS it will be installed on Oct 13th. Can anybody tell me if you get the VS channel in HD. I want to at least watch some hockey in HD.

They have VS channel in HD. It's part of a sport package along with Outdoor HD, Tennis HD, WFN HD, MAV TV HD. These are the only HD channels I don't have btw.


Jose.

Yes. I watched a WEC Highlights show at my girlfriends house briefly this week on vshd, just like with TWC it's listed as VSHD/GolfHD. No idea if it's apart of a package or not but they have it.
Ok,
So does that mean that your girlfriend has the extra sports package? The cust service said I should get this channel with the extreme pack, but I think you have to order the sports package.

Is it just me or the guide and info button doesn't show the actors in a movie or any other details about a movie... :confused:

I really want to try FiOS if not just to stick it to CV. I just heard from a friend (very much an average Joe - non techie) on their experience. Granted some of his complaints are not exactly fair - like too many channels and too confusing to find what he wants to watch - IMO this is just a learning curve issue. However, other issues are quite valid. #1 tech support is useless - hmm just like CV. #2 the cost was not any cheaper than CV and possibly a little more. #3 Internet was no faster (he got the 5m service). #4 He claimed the picture quality was only marginally better (i didn't see it) #5 network devices that worked just fine with CV Internet were claimed to be not supported - turns out it was just setup issues. Wrong IP on a printer and a reset of the "modem" fixed printing and play-station issues the tech was completely stymied by.

The friend went back to CV with a free 1yr DVR and discounted package.

Not a good sign for FiOS even if its somewhat unfounded. Its all about perception if the average Joe has a bad experience its going to be hard for FiOS to displace CV. Come on FiOS you can do better!

Is it just me or the guide and info button doesn't show the actors in a movie or any other details about a movie... :confused:

Yup, no actor's info. One of the first things I noticed and about the only thing I don't like about FIOS. Wonder why they couldn't do that with their box?

Jose.

Is it just me or the guide and info button doesn't show the actors in a movie or any other details about a movie... :confused:

We need to get updated to version 1.6 of the guide. Other parts have it and it has the names of the actors. Another thread mentioned NY might get the update on 10/9

We need to get updated to version 1.6 of the guide. Other parts have it and it has the names of the actors. Another thread mentioned NY might get the update on 10/9

guide itself and guide listings are 2 seperate components. guide is homegrown by verizon while listings is provided by fyi television. 1.6 will not give you more detailed listings!

Just got version 1.06 upgrade. Movie cast is now shown when pressing "INFO" twice, more widgets along with other minor guide upgrades.

Just got version 1.06 upgrade. Movie cast is now shown when pressing "INFO" twice, more widgets along with other minor guide upgrades.

Did they add the HD to the multi-room DVR?

Did they add the HD to the multi-room DVR?

Yes. Can stream HD to other HD boxes.

Is there a way to tell if you have multi-room HDVR or just a regular DVR? Mine came with no instruction manual so even if it did stream to other rooms I would have no idea how to use that feature.

Did they add the HD to the multi-room DVR?

"Yesterday I called Verizon because I had major problems with the bill I got for my new FiOS Triple Play set up. They fixed most of the billing issues, so all is good. But the woman did tell me, when I mentioned the issue with the Verzion FiOS Multi-Room DVR Does Not Work With HD Boxes. The woman told me that they have a tentative schedule to get the multi room DVR boxes working with HD TVs as early as December. I said, cool! But she said again, it is "tentative," and we cannot guarantee it. I said, cool!" (http://www.cartoonbarry.com/2008/09/hd_compatible_verzion_fios_mul.html)
Is that early or late.:eek::rolleyes:
So maybe next year!!!!:eek:

"Yesterday I called Verizon because I had major problems with the bill I got for my new FiOS Triple Play set up. They fixed most of the billing issues, so all is good. But the woman did tell me, when I mentioned the issue with the Verzion FiOS Multi-Room DVR Does Not Work With HD Boxes. The woman told me that they have a tentative schedule to get the multi room DVR boxes working with HD TVs as early as December. I said, cool! But she said again, it is "tentative," and we cannot guarantee it. I said, cool!" (http://www.cartoonbarry.com/2008/09/hd_compatible_verzion_fios_mul.html)
Is that early or late.:eek::rolleyes:
So maybe next year!!!!:eek:
I just had my FIOS installed yesterday, and my DVR streams HD to my non DVR box. It is part of the new software upgrade version 1.6.

Is there a way to tell if you have multi-room HDVR or just a regular DVR? Mine came with no instruction manual so even if it did stream to other rooms I would have no idea how to use that feature.

It's a feature you have to order. 19.99 a month instead of the 15.99 you pay for the non mr dvr. All boxes can be a mrdvr, if you order the service.

To use it you simply click the DVR button on your non-dvr boxes. If it works, you are seeing your DVR, if not it will say the feature is not enabled.

Is there any reason to get multiple DVR boxes if you have the one MR DVR? The only one I can think of is that you have more than 2 shows you want to record at the same time (it happens).

Can you add external storage to the MR DVR so you can hold more programming?

Side question: can you have 2 MR DVRs and access each from the other? Or do the MR DVRs only stream to non-DVR boxes?

Is there any reason to get multiple DVR boxes if you have the one MR DVR? The only one I can think of is that you have more than 2 shows you want to record at the same time (it happens).

Can you add external storage to the MR DVR so you can hold more programming?

Side question: can you have 2 MR DVRs and access each from the other? Or do the MR DVRs only stream to non-DVR boxes?

Soon you will be able to stream between DVR's (I think), but for now only one can be considered a hub. I only have one DVR and 2 other regular boxes.

Pro: Stream to all boxes from the MRDVR. No need to think about which box to tape on.

Con1: Other boxes are NOT DVR's, cant pause live tv.
Con2: We often have need to tape more than 2 shows since we have kids.

Even with the 2 cons I love the mrdvr.

Just got the Verizon FiOS Triple Freedom package installed in Manhattan recently, so I thought I'd share my experience.

Installation was a bit painful in that it took 3+ hours. But the techs were knowledgeable and competent. I'm just not used to such lengthy installations. That said, problems prevented the phone portion from getting set up successfully. They will have to return to finish that.

Internet speeds seem to consistently test out at their quoted speeds. But I wasn't thrilled about using the wireless router built into the FiOS modem. I had a whole bunch of security settings already set up in my Linksys router. I did try turning off the wireless on the FiOS modem and connecting the Linksys router to it. With some finagling, it did work, but resulted in odd performance issues, so I ditched that approach. So far, the FiOS wireless router has been fine and the software user interface for it is respectable enough. Though if I ever wanted 802.11n, I'd have to revisit piggybacking another wireless router.

TV picture quality is good but no better than TWC here, in my opinion. The HD channels look comparable and I actually prefer the SD picture on TWC. The FiOS SD picture is a little bit less pixel-y but also a little too soft for my tastes. Just personal preference though. Of course FiOS offers far more HD channels than TWC, so I will probably be watching less SD. And the number of premium movie channels available is staggering. Though as a big sports fan, I'm still a little miffed about losing MSG-HD.

When I first saw the Motorola DVR box, I got scared (bad past experiences with Motorola cable boxes) but my fears were unfounded. This one is fairly responsive to commands though maybe not quite as much as the Scientific Atlanta box from TWC. The DVR software otherwise feels like an improvement from TWC's. Certainly far more options and features. One minor quibble is that when you toggle through aspect ratios, there is no on-screen display of which choices are available and what you have chosen. Another is that the DVR software is not displayed in widescreen so you get the black bars on the sides when in the Guide, Menu, etc.

Two cables cards installed on my S3 Tivo without much trouble, which is saying something. The only major issue I ran into was not Verizon's fault. Tivo doesn't currently have FiOS as a provider option in my zip code so it took a few painfully s-l-o-w trial and error attempts to find a suitable alternative zip code to get the correct Guide information downloaded. I could be imagining it but changing channels feels slightly more responsive on the Tivo with Verizon's Motorola cable cards than with TWC's Scientific Atlanta cards.

And my phone portion is still pending.

I'm still reserving final judgment, but if you can suffer through the installation and setup, it does seem to mostly deliver as promised. Your mileage may vary of course.

I'm in Flushing and have seen no sign of FIOS. I'm trying to figure out whether to commit to two more years with Time Warner. Anyone know when FIOS may arrive?

On the subject of internet access, I run a few very low usage web sites on a home computer using Roadrunner. It's probably against the terms of service but no one seems to care. Does FIOS allow home users to have websites?

Finally (back to TV), I have a Tivo HD. I read on some thread that the FIOS program guide doesn't work on Tivo. Is that true? That would be a killer.

Any comment on the cable phone service (from TW or Verizon)? Right now I have Verizon local service and would like to dump it.

Thanks for any help.

I'm in Flushing and have seen no sign of FIOS. I'm trying to figure out whether to commit to two more years with Time Warner. Anyone know when FIOS may arrive?

On the subject of internet access, I run a few very low usage web sites on a home computer using Roadrunner. It's probably against the terms of service but no one seems to care. Does FIOS allow home users to have websites?

Finally (back to TV), I have a Tivo HD. I read on some thread that the FIOS program guide doesn't work on Tivo. Is that true? That would be a killer.

Any comment on the cable phone service (from TW or Verizon)? Right now I have Verizon local service and would like to dump it.

Thanks for any help.
Verizon blocks port 80 on all residential internet access accounts, so no home web server for you.

FiOS works fine with TiVo HD, but as with all cable services, you will not be able to access on-demand services through your TiVo, and you will need to call in to order PPV. But then you already know this.

Verizon FiOS phone service is nothing short of stellar. It's as clear as can be expected, and very reliable. Bear in mind both Verizon FiOS Phone and TWC Digital Voice are powered by your home current, not self-powered as copper phone lines are. Verizon provides a battery back-up solution in the case of power outages, but you are responsible for maintaining the battery. Once you go FiOS, you will be unable to revert to Verizon's copper phone service (they actually cut the copper line servicing your home, and I don't think they will re-attach it under any circumstances.)

I'm in Flushing and have seen no sign of FIOS. I'm trying to figure out whether to commit to two more years with Time Warner. Anyone know when FIOS may arrive?

For what it's worth, I have been seeing a lot of Verizon trucks driving around near Kissena Blvd. and Main Street. I would hold off on getting into a contract with TW.

If anybody here is from Woodbridge Twp., NJ, parts of the township served out of the Woodbridge and Perth Amboy COs have FiOS available to them.

This includes parts of:

Port Reading
Woodbridge Proper
Fords
Iselin
Keasbey, and other places that I might not know of.

Fiber is along Oak Tree Road and Rt 27 according to 2 Verizon techs I spoke with in Iselin today.

For what it's worth, I have been seeing a lot of Verizon trucks driving around near Kissena Blvd. and Main Street. I would hold off on getting into a contract with TW.

That's pretty close, I'd better hold off.

Verizon blocks port 80 on all residential internet access accounts, so no home web server for you.


Hmm. Not good but if FiOS is that much better than TW then maybe worth it. Dyndns.com allows port redirection which should work although I'll have to read it at least a few more times to understand what I'd need to do. Also, TW can decide to block it any time they want; I'm surprised they haven't.

Another question then. How often does the FiOS IP address change or is it fixed? TW (Roadrunner) is technically dynamic but it only changes once a year or so.

Just got the Verizon FiOS Triple Freedom package installed in Manhattan recently, so I thought I'd share my experience.

Installation was a bit painful in that it took 3+ hours. But the techs were knowledgeable and competent. I'm just not used to such lengthy installations. That said, problems prevented the phone portion from getting set up successfully. They will have to return to finish that.

Internet speeds seem to consistently test out at their quoted speeds. But I wasn't thrilled about using the wireless router built into the FiOS modem. I had a whole bunch of security settings already set up in my Linksys router. I did try turning off the wireless on the FiOS modem and connecting the Linksys router to it. With some finagling, it did work, but resulted in odd performance issues, so I ditched that approach. So far, the FiOS wireless router has been fine and the software user interface for it is respectable enough. Though if I ever wanted 802.11n, I'd have to revisit piggybacking another wireless router.

TV picture quality is good but no better than TWC here, in my opinion. The HD channels look comparable and I actually prefer the SD picture on TWC. The FiOS SD picture is a little bit less pixel-y but also a little too soft for my tastes. Just personal preference though. Of course FiOS offers far more HD channels than TWC, so I will probably be watching less SD. And the number of premium movie channels available is staggering. Though as a big sports fan, I'm still a little miffed about losing MSG-HD.

When I first saw the Motorola DVR box, I got scared (bad past experiences with Motorola cable boxes) but my fears were unfounded. This one is fairly responsive to commands though maybe not quite as much as the Scientific Atlanta box from TWC. The DVR software otherwise feels like an improvement from TWC's. Certainly far more options and features. One minor quibble is that when you toggle through aspect ratios, there is no on-screen display of which choices are available and what you have chosen. Another is that the DVR software is not displayed in widescreen so you get the black bars on the sides when in the Guide, Menu, etc.

Two cables cards installed on my S3 Tivo without much trouble, which is saying something. The only major issue I ran into was not Verizon's fault. Tivo doesn't currently have FiOS as a provider option in my zip code so it took a few painfully s-l-o-w trial and error attempts to find a suitable alternative zip code to get the correct Guide information downloaded. I could be imagining it but changing channels feels slightly more responsive on the Tivo with Verizon's Motorola cable cards than with TWC's Scientific Atlanta cards.

And my phone portion is still pending.

I'm still reserving final judgment, but if you can suffer through the installation and setup, it does seem to mostly deliver as promised. Your mileage may vary of course.
Hello,
I just had FIOS installed last week. I agree with you that the SD picture is way to soft. There is a fix in progress. When Verizon sent out its new 1.6 firmware upgrade the SD picture was degraded. Some people are saying that the quality of HD & SD were effected by the upgrade. I agree with you about the HD quality, I actually think Time Warners HD picture quality is sharper than FIOS. Do you agree? I have also had some problems with the Motorolla Box having HDMI handshaking issues with my Samsung 650.

Hello,
I just had FIOS installed last week. I agree with you that the SD picture is way to soft. There is a fix in progress. When Verizon sent out its new 1.6 firmware upgrade the SD picture was degraded. Some people are saying that the quality of HD & SD were effected by the upgrade. I agree with you about the HD quality, I actually think Time Warners HD picture quality is sharper than FIOS. Do you agree? I have also had some problems with the Motorolla Box having HDMI handshaking issues with my Samsung 650.

I thought the HD pictures were very close but since my comparison was from memory, I wouldn't be surprised to find the TWC's picture a bit sharper in a side-by-side comparison. But again, it wasn't an easily noticeable, if any, difference like it was with SD.

Using component cables with my Moto box so can't help you with your HDMI issue.

I dont understand, shouldnt FIOS's HD be so much better than TWCs, less compression. Am I wrong here.

I don't find FIOS HD softer than TWC. Just the opposite, if anything I find it sharper and cleaner. I do remember that I did some minor tweaking with pic setting since it was darker than TWC. Can't comment much on the SD since I try to avoid those channels:p.

Could it be the box? What cable box do you guys have? I have the Moto QIP-6200-2. No DVR for me. HDMI.


Jose.

I have the DVR version of this Box . Try watching football on sunday and look at all the graphics displays on the screen. TWCs were clearer and the overall long shot pics were clearer. I have a Panasonic 58" Plasma. You may be write about the non DVR box, because I have that set in my bedroom and I do agree, that pic does look better. But that Set is a Samsung, and that has all kinds of HDMI handshaking issues.

I dont understand, shouldnt FIOS's HD be so much better than TWCs, less compression. Am I wrong here.
After having FIOS for 2 weeks now I can honestly say the compression issues between TWC and FIOS is WAY OVERBLOWN! Plus Verizon has the worst customer service I have ever dealt with! I should know I used to work for there business group.

TV picture quality is good but no better than TWC here, in my opinion. The HD channels look comparable and I actually prefer the SD picture on TWC. The FiOS SD picture is a little bit less pixel-y but also a little too soft for my tastes. Just personal preference though.
Appreciate the comprehensive install outline. Awaiting FIOS in our midtown- East building.

Meanwhile, since TWC's full cable package was delaying new HDs, I added RCN's full HD lineup since I've got both cables coming in. Did the same a few years back, for only a year or so, when RCN had more HDs. It is nice to have the ability to DVR several programs at once. Yesterday at this location RCN went to its so-called analog-crush lineup (http://www.rcn.com/pdf/ny_crush_lineups.pdf), about 75 HDs, although still lacking several.


Surprised, with all the comments about FIOS not altering the programmer's bit rate, that TWC's SD picture quality seems better there. Guess it's a combination of how many channels are being jammed into each frequency slot (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=14861179&postcount=374), how good the program-source PQ is, and what various STBs can deliver. As noted in that link, someone at TWC has mapped all its channels in a spreadsheet, just updated (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=122624&d=1224696043). HDNet's Saturday 10 am ET test pattern (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=14891369&postcount=386) might provide another clue to PQ comparing FIOS with TWC and RCN. The DCT6416/2300 DVR RCN installed last week delivered slightly less-crisp HDNet test pattern images than older Motorola DVRs did a few years back (~1246 lines versus ~1335 lines). Plan on DVRing HDNet's 10-minute patterns this Saturday to see in the new RCN analog-crush lineup switched in yesterday has changed that.

Nationwide, some AVSers report measuring nearly 1920X1080 from the pattern, but many can only resolve <1400 lines horizontally, including a few using FIOS (different U.S. head ends). A true-1080p set is best for such a test, but even a 1366X768 display, if it can't show a crisp 1366 horizontally, tells you the cable system or STB is limiting resolution--on HDNet's channel slot at least and likely elsewhere on the system. A true-1080p set resolution could be mostly confirmed with the resolution-wedge test patterns on Sony Blue-ray movie discs--or another known test pattern such as a HD test DVD or pattern generator. Perhaps some FIOS user will map their channels in a spreadsheet and measure HDNet's test pattern to aid comparisons. -- John

I have the DVR version of this Box . Try watching football on sunday and look at all the graphics displays on the screen. TWCs were clearer and the overall long shot pics were clearer. I have a Panasonic 58" Plasma. You may be write about the non DVR box, because I have that set in my bedroom and I do agree, that pic does look better. But that Set is a Samsung, and that has all kinds of HDMI handshaking issues.
After having FIOS for 2 weeks now I can honestly say the compression issues between TWC and FIOS is WAY OVERBLOWN! Plus Verizon has the worst customer service I have ever dealt with! I should know I used to work for there business group.:eek:

A couple of observations after having FIOS installed (Bayside, Queens) in my townhouse:

-picture quality is fairly comparable to TWC on HD sources, and of lesser quality on SD sources
-despite repeated attempts to connect my HD Tivo, I opted to use the FIOS DVR because of pixelization and macroblocking.
-using my Yamaha RV 1800 audio seems more dynamic with FIOS.
-internet is considerably and consistently faster over TWC
- phone service works as expected.

The big advantage that FIOS has over TWC is more HD channels, initial lower cost, and higher internet speeds. Plus I had a much better customer support and service experience with Verizon. If one is contemplating switching to FIOS solely based on PQ, it is not worth it in my opinion.

If one is contemplating switching to FIOS solely based on PQ, it is not worth it in my opinion.
:eek: Wow, starting to hear that a lot.

A couple of observations after having FIOS installed (Bayside, Queens) in my townhouse:

-picture quality is fairly comparable to TWC on HD sources, and of lesser quality on SD sources
-despite repeated attempts to connect my HD Tivo, I opted to use the FIOS DVR because of pixelization and macroblocking.
-using my Yamaha RV 1800 audio seems more dynamic with FIOS.
-internet is considerably and consistently faster over TWC
- phone service works as expected.

The big advantage that FIOS has over TWC is more HD channels, initial lower cost, and higher internet speeds. Plus I had a much better customer support and service experience with Verizon. If one is contemplating switching to FIOS solely based on PQ, it is not worth it in my opinion.
Ditto, Plus you cant beat the savings.

[QUOTE= If one is contemplating switching to FIOS solely based on PQ, it is not worth it in my opinion.[/QUOTE]

Based on PQ alone, of course it's not worth switching. Cable PQ can only be so much better. Saving about $40 over TWC, 100+ HD channels in Manhattan, and faster interner speeds, IT'S A NO BRAINER!!!!

I've lived with TWC the past 30+ years in Manhattan. I didn't care if they promised to roll out more channels at the year's end, blah blah blah. Before switching, I called TWC to see if they would offer me a better price because of FIOS. Their offer was a whopping $7.00 off:eek: and acted like they were doing me a favor. WTF!!!!!

"Based on PQ alone, of course it's not worth switching. Cable PQ can only be so much better."

Cable PQ canbe a lot better!

A lot has to do with the amount of compression used. From what I have read and heard from engineers, FiOS, of all major providers, is as close as you can get to the original signal coming from a cable network or a local station.

It also depends on your ability to discern a difference.

Don't give up on your Tivo HD with Fios.I've read that problems like the ones you described are caused by a Fios signal that's too "hot"....too strong...for the Tivo to handle.It's said that one or more attenuators fix the problem nicely.And for the record my Tivo HD works flawlessly with Fios (and without any attenuators).

Don't give up on your Tivo HD with Fios.I've read that problems like the ones you described are caused by a Fios signal that's too "hot"....too strong...for the Tivo to handle.It's said that one or more attenuators fix the problem nicely.And for the record my Tivo HD works flawlessly with Fios (and without any attenuators).

In my case the fios technicians came over several times with different attenuators and filters but to no avail. They would solve a problem affecting one channel but another channel would crop up with visual artifacts. After hours of repeated attempts, I decided to nix the tivo in favor of their DVR, and now all is well .... although the Tivo box is a superior product.

"Based on PQ alone, of course it's not worth switching. Cable PQ can only be so much better."

Cable PQ canbe a lot better!

A lot has to do with the amount of compression used. From what I have read and heard from engineers, FiOS, of all major providers, is as close as you can get to the original signal coming from a cable network or a local station.

It also depends on your ability to discern a difference.

Sorry, yes, you're right about that. What I meant to say was FIOS vs. TWC is not a night and day difference.

While I still say that FIOS HD PQ is an improvement over TWC HD, I didn't switch because of it alone. Probably wouldn't have if it was the only factor. There are still enough compression artifacts with FIOS that bother me. Serious movie watching is blu-ray only. Service, $$$ saved, internet speeds were more important to me.

:eek: Wow, starting to hear that a lot.

390 posts in this thread, all of a sudden we're seeing the same comment this week. I'm smelling trolls. :)

390 posts in this thread, all of a sudden we're seeing the same comment this week. I'm smelling trolls. :)

No troll here, I have been critical over TWC service in the past, but honestly there is not a big difference in HD picture quality, and SD pq is noticeably softer.... still I would not switch back to TWC due to internet, more HD channels, and lower cost.

390 posts in this thread, all of a sudden we're seeing the same comment this week. I'm smelling trolls. :)

God forbid people speak out about fios they all become trolls.
Maybe they should all be blowhards!!!

No troll here, I have been critical over TWC service in the past, but honestly there is not a big difference in HD picture quality, and SD pq is noticeably softer.... still I would not switch back to TWC due to internet, more HD channels, and lower cost.
Recall lots of earlier comments, from FIOS users nationwide, just the opposite: SD being superior in PQ to other sources. Recall there are super head ends for different areas; hard to understand why NYC's would be worse. Here's a bit-rate table (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=12689065&postcount=16) for FIOS (not NYC) someone posted earlier. -- John

Question: is there any way to utilize both tuners at the same time (i.e pause one channel and switch back and forth to the other)? I could do this with TW.

Overall, I'm very happy with the service. Internet is blazing fast and many more HD channels than TW.

can anyone answer this....... in the past when switching from sd to hd, or vice versa, there would be a lag...the screen would flash twice as it went from one to the other....then a few weeks ago when changing channels it would be immediate...no lag going from sd to hd..... all of a sudden it is now doing the lag thing again.....any explanations?

can anyone answer this....... in the past when switching from sd to hd, or vice versa, there would be a lag...the screen would flash twice as it went from one to the other....then a few weeks ago when changing channels it would be immediate...no lag going from sd to hd..... all of a sudden it is now doing the lag thing again.....any explanations?

Sounds like the box is outputting SD as 480p and the lag you're experiencing is the box and TV changing resolutions and renegotiating the HDCP connection. I forget the exact menu entry, but theres a setting that allows you to stretch SD or output SD as 480p. I have it set to stretch and I get little or no lag.

Sounds like the box is outputting SD as 480p and the lag you're experiencing is the box and TV changing resolutions and renegotiating the HDCP connection. I forget the exact menu entry, but theres a setting that allows you to stretch SD or output SD as 480p. I have it set to stretch and I get little or no lag.

almost, but not quite the right answer. Check your SD override setting un the video settup screen.

I prefer setting the override to 480I, but this leads to a lag when going from sd to hd. If you set it to 1080I it will upconvert your SD channels, eliminating lag when swithcing from SD to HD. The con to this is your box does the upconvert, rather than your TV when viewing SD. I prefer to let the TV since they usually do a little better job than the boxes. It also allows me to use the stretch modes in my TV rather than the boxes.

my tv is a pioneer pdp-5045 which is native of 720p........shouldn't i set the fios box to output 720p?

i want to understand this.......
just set box to output at 720p....set 4:3 to stretch, and the lag has dissapeared.....
question is why the handshake lag issue when the signal is still going through an hdmi cable....also, will the lag come back if i set 4:3 pulldown to 480i or 480p?

I just got FIOS installed on Saturday and so far I am very happy. I switched from Cablevision and the picture quality is much better on both SD and HD content. I'm using a Tivo HD on a Panasonic 58" plasma and I do find the SD channels to be a little soft, but much cleaner and less pixelated than they were on cable. The amount of HD content far outweighs Cablevision and I hardly ever watch SD content now anyway. I have run into a few issues with pixelation on only 1 HD channel so far. My signal is coming in a little hot for the Tivo (37-38db), so I will add a 6db attenuator if the problem continues. I'm using the Verizon Motorola Dvr in my bedroom and it actually seems really nice compared to my old Scientific Atlanta box.

Internet speeds are also a nice improvement over cable. I consistently test at very very close to the 20mb. Usually in the high 19mb range using the speakeasy test, and this speed remains constant when downloading from usenet.

I'm sure others like me watch this forum for news of FiOS in their area.
Here in Somers, NY (next to Yorktown) the trucks have been rolling 6 days a week to finish the fiber. I am hopeful this agreement will help my town sign their agreement soon.

From the North County News
http://ncnlocal.com/news/ncn_news1.asp

Yorktown signs Verizon agreement
By Anna Lillian Moser


The Yorktown Town Board, in a unanimous 5-0 vote, has agreed to a 15-year cable television contract with Verizon.
Dozens of residents, most Verizon employees living in the area, gathered for a public hearing on the matter Tuesday night, the majority of whom spoke out in favor of the deal. Many of Verizon’s employees talked about the benefits of the company’s new fiber-optic cable system, FiOS.

“I’m sure you’ll be as impressed as I am at its speed,” said Mike Sheridan, a Yorktown resident and Verizon employee. “A yes [vote] tonight is an investment in our future.”
The franchise agreement – which took 14 months to negotiate - would allow Verizon to install FiOS cable throughout Yorktown. Today, only 45 percent of the town is able to receive FiOS. Under the agreement Verizon will provide access to the entire town.
Verizon would also provide four public access stations, giving the Lakeland Central School District and the Yorktown Central School District their own channels.

The contract also calls for providing all public buildings within 300 feet of the roadside with free installation. It would also provide Yorktown with $177,000 worth of grants paid in installations. It’s up to the town, however, what to do with the money. Leo Sposato, Yorktown School District’s director of communications, suggested that the town board look toward providing the school districts with funding for new equipment.

“This is a 15-year contract; that’s a long time,” Sposato said, adding that technology changes rapidly and he didn’t want the school districts to be working with archaic media equipment 15 years from now.

Not everyone at the public hearing supported the contract. Francis McVetty, a member of the town’s cable TV committee, said that the town should hold off on the agreement until the entire cable committee could weigh in and that Cablevision, Verizon’s competitor, could be contacted.
“I think we should put this agreement on hold and see what Cablevision has to offer,” McVetty said.

According to Councilman Nick Bianco, Cablevision was contacted but refused to negotiate with the town until the Verizon agreement was adopted.
Andrew Fisher, a Cortlandt resident, said his community was “victimized” by the installation of FiOS cable by Verizon. Fisher claimed that Verizon had subcontracted out the installation of lines, resulting in Internet, phone and existing cable lines being cut and roads being damaged.

I dont understand, shouldnt FIOS's HD be so much better than TWCs, less compression. Am I wrong here.

I have no idea what type of compression each company uses, but I see little difference between Verizon and TWC HD. If pressed for an answer, I'd lean toward TWC, but the difference is negligible in my opinion.

As for SD, I find the Verizon picture softer. Whether that is good or bad depends on your personal preference.

Now for some bad news. I signed up for the Triple Freedom package and I'm now starting to regret it. I have had nothing but trouble with my FiOS internet service. I have a few days left before my cancellation period and I am strongly considering cancelling the package. I never had any such issues with my Verizon DSL. Your mileage may vary of course. But in my case I'm dealing with rampant downtime of my internet service, and that's unacceptable. Too bad, since the TV and phone services (after an installation hitch) have been fine.

I have no idea what type of compression each company uses, but I see little difference between Verizon and TWC HD. If pressed for an answer, I'd lean toward TWC, but the difference is negligible in my opinion.

As for SD, I find the Verizon picture softer. Whether that is good or bad depends on your personal preference.

Now for some bad news. I signed up for the Triple Freedom package and I'm now starting to regret it. I have had nothing but trouble with my FiOS internet service. I have a few days left before my cancellation period and I am strongly considering cancelling the package. I never had any such issues with my Verizon DSL. Your mileage may vary of course. But in my case I'm dealing with rampant downtime of my internet service, and that's unacceptable. Too bad, since the TV and phone services (after an installation hitch) have been fine.

VZ is doing zero compression. Passing the signals thru uncompressed. Did you report your internet outages to VZ? The service is typicaly rock solid.

Both my internet and TV-HD connection from Verizon have been rock-solid for the past month now. No issues whatsoever.

VZ is doing zero compression. Passing the signals thru uncompressed. Did you report your internet outages to VZ? The service is typicaly rock solid.

Yes, of course. It actually went down for good yesterday and it has been a NIGHTMARE dealing with Verizon tech and customer support in my area. Just incredibly frustrating. But this is nothing new to me. My former Verizon DSL service was rock solid but the few times I did have problems, it was always a struggle dealing with them.

Just to be clear, the TV service, which is what I assume most people here care about, has been just fine. It's my internet service that has been very problematic.

I have no idea what type of compression each company uses, but I see little difference between Verizon and TWC HD. If pressed for an answer, I'd lean toward TWC, but the difference is negligible in my opinion.

Here's a post (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=12306307&postcount=6) by bfdtv, who compared his Verizon (Wash. D.C. area) with Comcast. He mentions Verizon stuffing fewer channels into each 6-MHz-wide frequency slot (his area), providing a higher bit rate/channel, and using a higher resolution as well. NYC TWC subscriber Berk32 has prepared a spread sheet (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=123159&d=1225342387) mapping all TWC channels and frequencies so you can count the channel density/slot. Entering a STB's diagnostic mode reveals this information, and if the channels are spread all over the place Excel's SORT function should let you group data by frequencies.

Also, here's one method of using cable DVRs for measuring the average bit rates (http://archive2.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=8584806&&#post8584806) for programs by recording how much STB hard disc space they require. And here's bfdtv's bit rate tables (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=12689065&postcount=16) comparing various SD/HD program sources on his FIOS.

It would be interesting to see how the NYC-area Verizon rates and channel densities/frequency slot compare with other sources. Currently getting both RCN and TWC here and find the SD picture quality quite disappointing. PQ-wise SD has been going steadily down hill IMO. Best comparison might be from someone who's also using a big-dish system, able to compare bit rates and format resolutions direct from sources versus one or more cable systems. -- John

Here's a post (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=12306307&postcount=6) by bfdtv, who compared his Verizon (Wash. D.C. area) with Comcast. He mentions Verizon stuffing fewer channels into each 6-MHz-wide frequency slot (his area), providing a higher bit rate/channel, and using a higher resolution as well. NYC TWC subscriber Berk32 has prepared a spread sheet (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/attachment.php?attachmentid=123159&d=1225342387) mapping all TWC channels and frequencies so you can count the channel density/slot. Entering a STB's diagnostic mode reveals this information, and if the channels are spread all over the place Excel's SORT function should let you group data by frequencies.

Also, here's one method of using cable DVRs for measuring the average bit rates (http://archive2.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=8584806&&#post8584806) for programs by recording how much STB hard disc space they require. And here's bfdtv's bit rate tables (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=12689065&postcount=16) comparing various SD/HD program sources on his FIOS.

It would be interesting to see how the NYC-area Verizon rates and channel densities/frequency slot compare with other sources. Currently getting both RCN and TWC here and find the SD picture quality quite disappointing. PQ-wise SD has been going steadily down hill IMO. Best comparison might be from someone who's also using a big-dish system, able to compare bit rates and format resolutions direct from sources versus one or more cable systems. -- John

It would be interesting to see a more up to date chart.

I just wanted to confirm what I am pretty sure was said earlier, which is that FIOS tv can be installed while simultaneously keeping the TWC Triple Play. Then at least in the short term, I can have both TWC HD and Fios HD running ultimately from my receiver, and have two separate DVRs.

Am I right?

Hello,
For all the people who switched to FIOS from TWC in NYC, have you noticed that during football games the animated graphics, and information screens on the broadcast look much softer? During the Jet Game on sunday I had to squint to read some the player names when they showed the teams roster. There are definate times that I think the pic on TWC was sharper. I am starting to think that maybe it is the horrible Motorola Box that is the problem.

^^^By DVRing HDNet's Saturday 10 am ET test patterns, or viewing live, you can see what 1080i effective resolution (resolvable detail) is being delivered by TWC and Verizon. Using this technique (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?postid=5175424#post5175424), I've found my parallel RCN and TWC subscriptions deliver about the same resolution (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=14950834&postcount=402). Using YPbPr STB outputs to a Zektor switcher. This measurement is only for HDNet's channel, but it provides a numerical comparison between HDNet delivery sources and STBs; display capabilities, such as true 1080i/p, are a factor, of course. Coupled with the channel density/frequency slot and bit-rate mapping techniques I outlined just above it can supplement overall PQ comparisons. -- John

Hello,
For all the people who switched to FIOS from TWC in NYC, have you noticed that during football games the animated graphics, and information screens on the broadcast look much softer? During the Jet Game on sunday I had to squint to read some the player names when they showed the teams roster. There are definate times that I think the pic on TWC was sharper. I am starting to think that maybe it is the horrible Motorola Box that is the problem.

I noticed the same thing too, on certain channels TWC HD content looked sharper.

I am definitely regretting "making the switch" Between the less than stellar HD picture, bad SD picture and all around terrible customer service (employees are constantly clueless), I'm not happy at all. I'll be going back to TWC eventually. BTW, Staten Island here.

I am definitely regretting "making the switch" Between the less than stellar HD picture, bad SD picture and all around terrible customer service (employees are constantly clueless), I'm not happy at all. I'll be going back to TWC eventually. BTW, Staten Island here.

Yeah, me too ......after my year is up!

Any news on whether this area gets MSNBC at year's end or if the Cablevision exclusive contract to it includes the HD feed which should be up by Spring?

for the people who are saying they regretted switching and "will eventually go back" - have you had fios for more than 90 days? You have 3 months to decide on whether to keep or cancel with no penalty fees. I'm on SI as well, I'm slated to get it installed in a few weeks - my brother in law has had it for about a month and he's got a 42" Aquos set - the HD looks stellar, basically crystal clear. The SD programming looked good too, definitely smoother but that might have been due to his stretch settings - but it looked a lot better than the SD programming I see on my old-school CRT Sony 36" Trinitron (HD capable).

I'm just wondering why you wouldn't just drop it now, why wait the year? I'd rather pay more and be happy than pay less and feel slighted. My two cents.

Well, add me to the list of people who regret switching. For those who haven't read my posts above regarding my issues, I signed up for the Triple Freedom FiOS package and have been having problems with my internet service right from the start. I know most people here are only interested in TV and I can report that portion of the package has been fine.

But in trying to get my internet service repaired I have had the most frustrating experience I've ever had trying to get something repaired. Customer service has been HORRID. Now Time Warner, which I switched from, doesn't exactly have the greatest customer service either, but the Verizon FiOS department has been tenfold worse. I don't know if readers want me to recount my experience in full detail but I've encountered a complete lack of urgency or genuine concern, generally inefficient almost stupid behavior, overt incompetence, and sometimes rudeness. After about 2 weeks, many hours on the phone, several days of leaving work early and one day of taking the entire day off just to deal with this repair, my service is still not fixed. One customer agent told me to read my Terms of Service and that it does not guarantee an internet connection that is always up. This was in response to the problem that my internet connection goes down every 20-30 minutes at least.

I often work from home and require VPN'ing into my corporate network. An internet connection that disconnects every 20-30 min is absolutely worthless to me. Not that this kind of internet connection reliability is acceptable for ANY paying customer. I still can't get over that one rep telling me to read my Terms of Service.

I always say this, but it bears repeating that your mileage may vary. My experience, for one, has been incredibly frustrating. I am now just past my 2 week cancellation period and I'm not sure what options I have in canceling my service (I signed up for one of those 1-year contracts). I guess if you are lucky to get everything set up perfectly, then maybe you'll be pleased. But if you ask me, I cannot recommend getting into any sort of contract with Verizon. Their customer/tech support is a headache you don't want to deal with. And you could wind up stuck with it for a year.

for the people who are saying they regretted switching and "will eventually go back" - have you had fios for more than 90 days? You have 3 months to decide on whether to keep or cancel with no penalty fees. I'm on SI as well, I'm slated to get it installed in a few weeks - my brother in law has had it for about a month and he's got a 42" Aquos set - the HD looks stellar, basically crystal clear. The SD programming looked good too, definitely smoother but that might have been due to his stretch settings - but it looked a lot better than the SD programming I see on my old-school CRT Sony 36" Trinitron (HD capable).

I'm just wondering why you wouldn't just drop it now, why wait the year? I'd rather pay more and be happy than pay less and feel slighted. My two cents.

After 15 days there are steep cancellation fees, my negative sentiments regarding FIOS are being echoed by a few of my neighbors (Bayside Queens), although friends in Nassau county absolutely love their FIOS and would never switch back to cable.

So much for the promise land.:eek:

After 15 days there are steep cancellation fees, my negative sentiments regarding FIOS are being echoed by a few of my neighbors (Bayside Queens), although friends in Nassau county absolutely love their FIOS and would never switch back to cable.

That's because their tired of the Cablevision monopoly.

Well I'm in SI here, and I think it's great. SI has MSNBC, which is fantastic. The SD quality is a total step up from TWC...I don't know how people could say it's worse...HD PQ is fantastic as well...some people don't know what's good, when they have it right in front of them.

Why does SI have MSNBC and not Long Island? Isn't SI a Cablevision territory?

Why does SI have MSNBC and not Long Island? Isn't SI a Cablevision territory?

Nope. Time Warner

Figures.

Well I'm in SI here, and I think it's great. SI has MSNBC, which is fantastic. The SD quality is a total step up from TWC...I don't know how people could say it's worse...HD PQ is fantastic as well...some people don't know what's good, when they have it right in front of them.

And some people don't know what's crap when it's right in front of them as well.

After 15 days there are steep cancellation fees, my negative sentiments regarding FIOS are being echoed by a few of my neighbors (Bayside Queens), although friends in Nassau county absolutely love their FIOS and would never switch back to cable.I'm in Staten Island, maybe the terms are different here but I have a full 90 days after installation to cancel the service without paying a cent in fees - that was pretty impressive to me, because you're really only locked into a 9 month contract. I also called them directly (I had a door-to-door guy set this up for me) and they confirmed 90 days. I would have to ship the equipment back, but on their dime and they would send me all the boxes with prepaid postage on them.

When it comes to customer service, you rarely have a good experience regardless of the vendor - the one thing I can credit cable for is giving out monthly credits for loss of service but that's probably due to lack of a locked-in contract. I went almost 6 months with free service because of modem and DVR issues once.

I'm not looking forward to losing my 8300HD (I love that DVR, once they got it right it's never ever given me a problem) but I am looking forward to better PQ and more HD programming. If it's as problematic as has been reported here & there I'll just cancel & go back to TWC who will probably give me a good deal to return.

A few people in my neighborhood are switching back to TWC due to an unstable internet connection, as well as PQ issues. I'm also having these problems but I'll try to stick it out ...... being retired I can afford to call and complain about poor service.

you're not in Annadale, are you?

*hopes not* lol

Can anyone with FIOS in Manhattan verify for me whether or not MSNBC is available there? It looks like my building is going to get FIOS in the spring, but I'd really miss this channel if it's not available. I've tried to research this but have gotten conflicting information.

Thanks for any information about this...

If you currently have Cablevision then no, sorry AIUI that haven't made an agreement as of yet. If you have TW then you should be fine. If you are wondering about MSNBC HD we don't know that one yet, and whether it will matter what provider you currently have.

no MSNBC on this side of the hudson (montclair)

I currently have TWC and am thinking about switching--but my cable box is sort of built into my media rack. I would need a DVR box similar to my Scientific Atlanta to fit in the slot (stupid, I know). I have heard FIOS DVR is Motorola... is it comparable in size? Thanx.

found this link in the HDTV Recorders forum

http://broadband.motorola.com/catalog/product_documents/QIP6416-520408-001-a.pdf

Does anyone here know if you can connect the fios directly to the qam tuner on an HDTV?

Does anyone here know if you can connect the fios directly to the qam tuner on an HDTV?
Yes you can. Obviously the regular caveats apply; no guide, no on-demand, messed up channel numbers, no premium encrypted channels without CableCARD.

Can anyone with FIOS in Manhattan verify for me whether or not MSNBC is available there? It looks like my building is going to get FIOS in the spring, but I'd really miss this channel if it's not available. I've tried to research this but have gotten conflicting information.

Thanks for any information about this...

Yep, MSNBC is on FIOS Manhattan on ch. 103. Don't know where the HD version will go when the network launches in Spring 2009, but currently CNN HD is on 600 and Fox News HD is (I think) 604.

Yep, MSNBC is on FIOS Manhattan on ch. 103. Don't know where the HD version will go when the network launches in Spring 2009, but currently CNN HD is on 600 and Fox News HD is (I think) 604.


Thanks so much for confirming this. I don't understand why the Verizon site doesn't say this. They have a special selection on their channel listings for "Manhattan" as opposed to the rest of the city, but MSNBC doesn't show up there. HD would be nice but I can live without that...

Does anyone here know if you can connect the fios directly to the qam tuner on an HDTV?

I just switched from Cablevision yesterday. Here is the deal. If it matters, I am located in Westchester, NY.

I have three TVs in my home. 1 large plasma in the living room, a small undercounter LCD in the kitchen and a 13" tube TV in the master bedroom. All of these TVs are fairly new - purchased in the past 5 years or so.

With CV I had a HDDVR on the plasma in the living room, and no boxes on either of the other two TVs. These two TVs got 20 or 30 channels, just with the coax from the wall going straight to the back of the two TVs. My living room TV, with the HDDVR, had full functionality.

When I was going to switch to Fios I asked several times if I would need a box on these two extra TVs - all I wanted was to get the four networks - ABC, NBC, FOX and CBS. I don't care about anything else (other channels, guides, on demand, etc). I just want to be able to watch the news on these TVs.

Fios told me - no problem - as long as the TVs are "cable ready" they will get channels 2-49 without any type of box. In fact, their website says so too (http://www22.verizon.com/residential/fiostv/faq/faq.html#two_one) (emphasis added):

What type of TV do I need?

FiOS TV service is compatible with all TV types. A cable ready tuner TV will allow reception of local service below channels 49. To take advantage of FiOS TV Digital Video Recorder (DVR) service, a TV must have a video and audio input. The input can be the typical yellow, white and red cables or a 3 wire component or an S-Video along with audio cables. High Definition (HDTV) service will require an HDTV, an HD STB, and HDMI or DVI cables with an adapter.

This is not true. Fios is now "all digital" - at least in my area. This means that unless your TV has a QAM tuner (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/QAM_tuner)(only very new ones do), you will need some type of a box to use the TV. My two "extra" TVs do not have QAM tuners, but they are "cable ready."

When my install was over, and they plugged in my two "extra" tvs stright to the wall, all I got was fuzz. We played with all of the different settings and everything was fuzz.

The long and short of it is that the ONLY way to get ANY signal without some type of box is to have a QAM tuner. Otherwise, you will need either a standard cable box ($6/mo) or - what they call - a digital converter box ($4/mo).

I am not a happy camper to hear that my bill will eventually be $8 more than expected and I will have to have more equipment complicating my set-up. I was outright mislead by their uninformed customer service people (and their website.)

I am most upset about the TV in the kitchen. The whole point of having it mounted under counter is to have a clean space-saving installation. Now, I am stuck with a box on the counter and another set of wires. Great - exactly what I was hoping to avoid.

Just a quick follow-up on my post, above. Every TV in the house needs either a QAM tuner or some form of a Fios box. The digital to analog boxes you can buy at Radio Shack with the $40 government rebate will NOT work with Fios.

Fios is paying for the two boxes I need and sending someone to my house tomorrow morning to install them.

Manhattanite here.

I just got an email from Verizon saying that FiOS is now available in our neighborhood (UES) but not in my building. It went on to say that Verizon is negoitiating with management and would let me know when it's available in the building.

Now, I'm on the co-op board, so I know they're not "negotiating with the building." I would love for our building to be wired up, so as a representative of the board, I started making calls to see if I could get installation expedited. I got bounced around to at least SIX different phone numbers, from residential sales to business sales to corporate and back around again.

Every rep would say "you can't get FiOS installed in your apartment until your building has it." And I would reply, "I know, I'm calling as a representative of building management, how can we get the building wired?" And they would have no answer.

One nice sales supervisor ultimately tried to help me out, staying on the line as he connected me to a corporate call center. He ended up doing a lap with me... from biz to residential etc ad nauseam. Finally, he said there were people on his end trying to work on it, and someone would call me back.

A few hours later, someone called and left a message: "I'm sorry, but you can't get FiOS installed until your building is wired." /facepalm

I would love to have an alternative to TWC, but if their customer service is anything like their sales... methinks Verizon is not ready for prime time.

sheesh.

Manhattanite here.

I would love to have an alternative to TWC, but if their customer service is anything like their sales... methinks Verizon is not ready for prime time.

sheesh.

All I can say is that I am having a very different experience in Westchester. There were a few hiccups with my install, but they admitted their mistakes, followed through on the correction, and made everything right.

The service is much better than cablevision. I haven't had TWC since I lived in the city many years ago (well before HD). I do remember them having terrible customer service.

I've had it since 11/21 and so far, apart for a very few audio drop outs the day after it was installed (but nary a hiccup since), the service has been perfect. I wish I didn't have to use the Actiontec router for internet (I asked the tech for ethernet provisioning, he refused but he did pass the signal along to my WRT-54GL and I have a lot more signal range, despite the small NAT table - but I digress) but otherwise it's been great. The SD pic is a little soft but apparently that's a well known "issue" however I just modified the settings on mt TV menu to compensate.

I also got my first bill and it was on target with regard to charges - nothing was incorrect, the amount was within reason of what I was old to expect.

Hopefully this trend continues!

Hi

I just had Fios TV added. I do HDTV capturing through the Firewire port to my MacBook Pro. I had thought that all the local broadcast stations had been set to copy freely. And was happy to see that was the case for the first two weeks of service.

However tonight, I noticed that CBSHD had changed, and is now set to copy once, which does not permit firewire recording.

Is there a particular reason why CBS has this set with their programs while every other local broadcast station is set to copy freely? This is the same on Cablevision and one of the reasons I made the switch.

This may the wrong the forum to address and my apologies if it is, but I did not where else to post this.

Has anyone successfully gotten Verizon to remove the copy flag?

Manhattanite here.

I just got an email from Verizon saying that FiOS is now available in our neighborhood (UES) but not in my building. It went on to say that Verizon is negoitiating with management and would let me know when it's available in the building.

Now, I'm on the co-op board, so I know they're not "negotiating with the building." I would love for our building to be wired up, so as a representative of the board, I started making calls to see if I could get installation expedited. I got bounced around to at least SIX different phone numbers, from residential sales to business sales to corporate and back around again.

Every rep would say "you can't get FiOS installed in your apartment until your building has it." And I would reply, "I know, I'm calling as a representative of building management, how can we get the building wired?" And they would have no answer.

One nice sales supervisor ultimately tried to help me out, staying on the line as he connected me to a corporate call center. He ended up doing a lap with me... from biz to residential etc ad nauseam. Finally, he said there were people on his end trying to work on it, and someone would call me back.

A few hours later, someone called and left a message: "I'm sorry, but you can't get FiOS installed until your building is wired." /facepalm

I would love to have an alternative to TWC, but if their customer service is anything like their sales... methinks Verizon is not ready for prime time.

sheesh.


This sums up the state of many companies today - customers willing to pay them money but they just don't know how to deliver the product. They deserve to have someone new eat their lunch.

I just got Fios in Fresh Meadows, NY (Queens) via the triple play bundle, which includes the extreme hd tv package. Before I ordered, checking verizon's online channel list showed that the extreme hd package included some ports channels in the 3xx channel number range, like horse racing and tennis. But when I tune to those channels, it tells me I have to order the sports package.

I called verizon to 1) fix the total mess that is my bill 2) and to ask about the missing channels. The rep I talked to says that the extra sports channels are bundled into the extreme hd package depending on where you live. The rep lived in upper new york and had those channels while lower new york had to order the sports package for $7.99. She said that her bill is a little higher, so I assume she is implying that they are forcing the package onto some customers. I then asked her what is the difference between the Essentials HD and the Extreme HD packages since I couldn't really see a difference in the channel lineup. She said that the Extreme HD package is exactly the same as the Essentials HD package but given a different name because it's in a bundle with other services.

So does this info sound correct or was I just given a carrot to get out of the way? I just don't like how things are slightly not what I expected.

The info is correct. I live in western Suffolk and the sports pack is NOT included in my extreme hd pack.

So I just got FIOS in my building (Upper East Side 1st Ave and 93rd St) and will make the switch from TWC. So far Verizon has installed fiber up through all 32 floors and have their boxes in the laundry room on each floor. My question is: when they actually hook up each individual apartment will they use the existing coaxial cable inside the apartment or will they actually use new fiber instead?

I used to suspect that I had a weak cable signal but TWC came a long time ago and told me it was actually strong. Still I think I have some weak connections inside my apartment and would want Verizon to inspect and fix if they plan on using the existing cable. The main TWC box for each floor is located inside the stairwell and is a 15 year old rat's nest of cables. The new FIOS box in the laundry room is clean and neat and new. Of course I would much rather have the fiber instead. Anyone know how Verizon operates inside large buildings?

I don't know about bulidings but in my house, they used the existing coax that was already on place. They essentially cut the TWC feed and put theirs onto the "main" house feed, then they added their boxes to each requested line. The tech also tests for signal strength with each box install, and if you have many barely passable or failure lines, they'll install a signal booster.

So I just got FIOS in my building (Upper East Side 1st Ave and 93rd St) and will make the switch from TWC. So far Verizon has installed fiber up through all 32 floors and have their boxes in the laundry room on each floor. My question is: when they actually hook up each individual apartment will they use the existing coaxial cable inside the apartment or will they actually use new fiber instead?

I used to suspect that I had a weak cable signal but TWC came a long time ago and told me it was actually strong. Still I think I have some weak connections inside my apartment and would want Verizon to inspect and fix if they plan on using the existing cable. The main TWC box for each floor is located inside the stairwell and is a 15 year old rat's nest of cables. The new FIOS box in the laundry room is clean and neat and new. Of course I would much rather have the fiber instead. Anyone know how Verizon operates inside large buildings?


I'm right in your neighborhood, in fact your corner, but sounds like the building across the street - anyway, we've had FIOS since August. They put a FIOS box in the emergency exit stairwell of each floor here, and run the fiber from that to each apartment. Then inside it goes to the FIOS ONT where everything is fed out. They just used the existing TW coax cable within my apt to carry the signals. The tech told me in most cases, the existing coax is fine, but if there are any glitches they will replace it with new coax. But again, that's only if there is a problem, otherwise they tend to use the TW coax. But it might be better to ask them to replace during the installation - after I had FIOS for about a month, I started getting bad pixelation on one of my sets. They came out, tested, the signal was fine, the other STB was fine, so they replaced the coax going to this STB and problem solved.

Yep, MSNBC is on FIOS Manhattan on ch. 103. Don't know where the HD version will go when the network launches in Spring 2009, but currently CNN HD is on 600 and Fox News HD is (I think) 604.

Provision of MSNBC might tip me to FIOS in lower Manhattan. Can you provide an approximate date it became available ? I want that in hand and a condition of contract when I speak to their sales rep. I've decided I can live without NY1 which is highly repetitive and I can watch hockey in SD.

Provision of MSNBC might tip me to FIOS in lower Manhattan. Can you provide an approximate date it became available ? I want that in hand and a condition of contract when I speak to their sales rep. I've decided I can live without NY1 which is highly repetitive and I can watch hockey in SD.

Sorry, not sure when it became available. I signed up with FIOS in August of this year and it's always been on the system for me. (I'm in the Yorkville area, and I know TW differs between upper and lower Manhattan, with their strange 79th/86th Sts. delineations :) but I don't know if FIOS differs? (I thought I was going to miss NY1 too, btw, but other than the regularly scheduled weather info, I've found I really haven't.)

The West 79th Street and the East 86th Street delineations go back to when there there were different franchises in force in Manhattan - before Time Warner Cable ruled all of Manhattan!

They have absolutely nothing to do with FiOS.

Thanks guys. I've been with TW since it was Sterling Manhattan (founded by Ch Dolan of course). FIOS came to my building this summer. Had to rule it out til after the election cycle with no MSNBC. Now it appears I could have had it all along.

Aren't TW and CV presently negotiating to renew their cable franchises with the city? CV has no possible argument denying MSNBC in Manhattan. There is water separating us from from CV country. No possible reason for us not getting MSG-HD as well. Unless CV is in cahoots with TW.

FIOS gets installed Monday afternoon. I was surprised by the speed of the appointment. They wanted to come Sunday morning.

The installation took longer than anticipated and wasn't actually finished until my phone was programmed over, off-site, this morning.

Video is just awesome. The HDMI implementation on the Moto box is better. With TW's SciAtl 8300 HD, I wasn't able to handle Slingbox with HDMI connected and was forced to return to component. Now, with Slingbox running, my HDMI screen just goes blank when Sling is on. It's not perfect but usable.

On the WAN side, I am averaging about 19500 on the downstream and 4600 on the up. My Vonage line took a little time to negotiate with the Actiontec MI424wr Rev D router but now works flawlessly. No additional router input was required.

The main disappointment is the wireless piece. Have to be just about right next to the router to use it. I'll be bridging my TrendNet. In the broad scheme of things, this is a small complaint. But considering the perceived overall quality of equipment and service, 24 hours later, Verizon should have done better with the router.

Off to TW 23rd Street with a bag of boxes.

(I posted this over on the TWC thread, but it's worthwhile to duplicate it here.)

I am scheduled to have FIOS installed in my apartment next week.

I thought it might be helpful for others contemplating the switch to share my list of pros and cons. This is how I see the issues generally speaking. I've noted in brackets how they related to me personally.

HD Picture Compression: [A pretty big deal to me.]
FIOS passes on signals as is from the station. Currently in Southern Manhattan TWC adds compression to all (maybe most) of the HD feeds. I'm not sure if this is different in areas of the city where analog has been shut off but I would like to hear the answer. (Apparently) Edge FIOS.

SD Picture Quality: [A small deal to me.]
FIOS reportedly has some of the best available SD picture quality. Edge to FIOS.

HD DVR Equipment: [Somewhat moot.]
AFAIK the standard FIOS HD DVR (made by Motorola) has some shortcomings compared to the SA8300HD running Passport. Up against Navigator the issue is not so clear to me, but the TWC set up probably still wins out. Note that Passport will be gone sooner or later. FIOS also offers the Home Media DVR which can stream recorded content (including HD) to other STB's, but doesn't give those STB's full DVR functionality (i.e. can't pause or record live TV viewing the slave STB). IMO the home media dvr is a good concept but has not been comprehensively executed so it doesn't make up for FIOS's other shortcomings, therefor I'm giving the edge to TWC.



[B]Non-DVR HD equipment: [Moot]
I have no idea about this.

TIVO Related Charges: [Small factor.]
TWC charges $1.75/month for a CableCARD and has multi-stream cards available. FIOS charges $3.99/month and (according to the rep I spoke with) does not yet have M-Cards available in Manhattan so TIVO users will need to rent two CC's per unit. Total CC related costs of running a TIVO on TWC is $1.75/month. On FIOS the cost is $8/month. Edge TWC.
[Note but, I talked the rep into giving me the cards for free for the first year, and I have confidence that after that they will either have the M-Cards in Mahattan or cut me a break and charge for just one.]

Channel Guide: [Somewhat moot.]
The FIOS guide is terrible. The guide data on Passport is pretty good for a cable company. I'm not sure if Navigator boxes get the same guide data as Passport. Edge TWC.

HD lineups: [Very important.]
Here (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=15386498#post15386498) is a very helpful comparison. I'll add to that list that FIOS has its own HD VOD. There is too much personal preference here to declare an objective winner.

[As a big sports fan I'll miss MSG HD but I'm not a fan of the particular teams carried on MSG so it's not devastating. The West Coast feeds of the premium channels on FIOS ain't a bad thing, nor is the NFL Network.]

SD lineups. [Not too important.]
Just a few notes ... NY1 only on TWC, a big deal to some. For sports fans, FIOS does not have the NBA League Pass (however, the NBA League Pass Broadband service is quite good as an alternative) but does have the packages for NHL and MLB.

HD VOD:
I'm not familiar with the quality or variety of offerings on either system. Note that HD On Demand via TWC is not available on the 8300HD so that means sacrificing some of the HD DVR advantage TWC holds over FIOS. Not enough info to make a judgment (can anyone else weigh in?).

[This is not a big deal to me since I won't have VOD via Tivo.]

SD VOD:
Who cares?

Internet.
FIOS standard service is 20 mbps download, 5 mbps upload. TWC standard service is 10/5. I haven't experienced the difference, but I understand this is a palpable edge to FIOS. (One other note, the FIOS equipment is a joint modem/wireless router so there is no cost of owning and maintaining your own router.)

Costs. [Always a big deal!]
Everyone's package is different. Based on my personal situation, FIOS appears to have a big Edge.

[My service includes cable, internet, the premium channel bundle (HBO, Starz, SHO, Cine.), HD Extra tier, two DVR's, and internet. My TWC bill would normally cost $192/month but comes to $161/month after a 20% discount they offered me upon my threat some months ago to jump ship to FIOS. Similar service on FIOS would be $141/month; or as alternative I could do the home media DVR + STB for $129/month for the first year and $137 thereafter. Since I'm implementing a Tivo my FIOS bill for the first year will be $125/month (not including deductions for introductory freebies which bring the average cost over the first twelve months down to $113 per). I expect that bill to rise after the first year by $4 to $129/month for the cost of renting a single cable card. The cost with a Tivo on TWC would be about $151/month.]

On a programming note, I see that ESPN Desportes is available to me even though it is on the Spanish tier. They carried a fair number of games for World Baseball Classic a few years back.

As for the box and menuing, I suppose I like TWs better because I'm accustomed to it. Along the same line, I know where all of my channels are with TW and here I am hunting around for them with FIOS.

The FIOS box has a heck of a lot more options. The menuing is unfamiliar. I'll be used to it before long.

Did the MLB network come on in Manhattan today? I thought it was supposed to go up on FIOS on 1/1/09 on ch. 586 but I'm not seeing it? Is it a premium station?

86 in SD. HD may not be rolled out yet.

Did the MLB network come on in Manhattan today? I thought it was supposed to go up on FIOS on 1/1/09 on ch. 586 but I'm not seeing it? Is it a premium station?

2 Questions:

First, is there another router option besides the MI424WR which everyone seems to complain has lousy range?

Second, do techs come with Cat 5 cable? I'd like to see if I can 'entice' the install guy to lay down a couple extra lines for me. Does that seem likely?

2 Questions:

First, is there another router option besides the MI424WR which everyone seems to complain has lousy range?

Second, do techs come with Cat 5 cable? I'd like to see if I can 'entice' the install guy to lay down a couple extra lines for me. Does that seem likely?

If you can get a Motorola NIM-100, coax in, cat5 out, you can use your present router behind it. You need the coax in up front for VOD and program guide updates.

The only problem I've encountered with the Actiontec was on the wireless side. I solved it by turning off the radio and hooking up my existing wireless behind it in bridge mode. The Actiontec and my existing wireless are playing nicely together.

Just received a call from my installation tech Andre. I'm his first customer in of the morning and he sees I ordered two cable cards for my TiVo. He wants to make sure the TiVo really needs two, so I try to straighten him out on what the options are. "I see, you need one to send and one to receive," he says, "only one of us down here at the shop has done a TiVo install before, and the customer ... he was like a computer geek so he showed the tech what to do." "No," I say, "It's not one to send and one to receive..."

I'm afraid I'm in for a long day.

Just received a call from my installation tech Andre. I'm his first customer in of the morning and he sees I ordered two cable cards for my TiVo. He wants to make sure the TiVo really needs two, so I try to straighten him out on what the options are. "I see, you need one to send and one to receive," he says, "only one of us down here at the shop has done a TiVo install before, and the customer ... he was like a computer geek so he showed the tech what to do." "No," I say, "It's not one to send and one to receive..."

I'm afraid I'm in for a long day.
Hey, at least he called to check first.

Absolutely true. He seems like a nice guy, this was certainly a nice gesture. I hope he is able to figure out my TiVo and various wireless devices that need to be networked.

Absolutely true. He seems like a nice guy, this was certainly a nice gesture. I hope he is able to figure out my TiVo and various wireless devices that need to be networked.

My tech called to ensure he had the order right. It's probably standard procedure.

I don't know how much wireless setup he'll do for you beyond switching on the Actiontec. He won't want to deal with your present router. Mine has been up 10 days, nine with the radio off and a bridge to my better wireless router.

There is some very good tech here: http://www.dslreports.com/forum/vzfiber

Limited availability of FiOS in Woodbridge Township. Woohoo!

HAHAHA. Two techs were at my home yesterday from 10:30 to 7:30. They were each very nice and each had less than three weeks experience. Basically they had no idea what they were doing and completely in over their heads with what lay ahead.

About five hours in they reported to me that the hub in the basement was giving them trouble. There is one apartment in my building with working FIOS service, that apartment is hooked into a working hub, but I was assigned to a different one. It turns out this hub was reported broken after a failed installation attempt on Monday. Of course, that report never made it into the hand of the people that were handling my order and could have planned appropriately. The techs were unable to fix the broken hub or assign me to the working hub.

After nine hours the techs left having accomplished nothing but running the fiber line into my home. They assured me that engineering was coming overnight to fix the hub and they would be back in the morning. Neither of those things happened.

The billing department at Verizon has already offered to give me my first month free, but I still have no answers on when the install will resume.

Anyone else notice how Vzn changed the NY area commercial with the Vzn tech, cable guy and the "Delivery guy".
Previouisly the delivery guy asked the Vzn guy what he had, then asked the cable guy ,who responded "we have stuff too".

Now it's been changed to the cable guy saying " best of intentions".
I wonder what prompted that ?

HAHAHA. Two techs were at my home yesterday from 10:30 to 7:30. They were each very nice and each had less than three weeks experience. Basically they had no idea what they were doing and completely in over their heads with what lay ahead.

About five hours in they reported to me that the hub in the basement was giving them trouble. There is one apartment in my building with working FIOS service, that apartment is hooked into a working hub, but I was assigned to a different one. It turns out this hub was reported broken after a failed installation attempt on Monday. Of course, that report never made it into the hand of the people that were handling my order and could have planned appropriately. The techs were unable to fix the broken hub or assign me to the working hub.

After nine hours the techs left having accomplished nothing but running the fiber line into my home. They assured me that engineering was coming overnight to fix the hub and they would be back in the morning. Neither of those things happened.

The billing department at Verizon has already offered to give me my first month free, but I still have no answers on when the install will resume.

My install took from 11:15 am to 10:45 pm. There is a final 200 ft fiber optic run along the upper molding from my apt to the hub in the far compactor room. Between unwinding the fiber and ducking the fiber nice and loose in the molding it's about an hour. The tech had 3 failed 200 footers. I got him to try a 250 footer. GOLD. Poor quality control on the 200 footers.

Well, after a lot of phone calls I was able to get a second install attempt scheduled for yesterday. Very happily, the installation was successful, (although there were some hiccups along the way that gave me pause).

The experience was undoubtedly a frusterating one. The initial failure could have certainly been averted if the news of the broken hub had been acted upon prior to my original install date. And (I suspect) a solution on that first day would have been much more likely had Verizon not sent two incompetent and completely inexperienced techs to my home (after having a skilled tech on the job yesterday, it is all the more apparent how unqualified the original team was). And my anger could have been reduced if certain promises along the way had been satisfied. But I will say this, everyone I dealt with at Verizon, both on the phone and in my home, was patient, understanding, and very nice.

If there's anyone planning to sign up for service, I strongly advise that you get the name of a competent tech and call him first. The tech will then put in a referral with the order people which (I'm told) will get him assigned to your job (and earn him points in an amployee incentive system). You can PM for a name.

Anyway, onto the good stuff. I am delighted with the TV service. The HD quality is stunning, my TV's look transformed. There is no doubt this is a huge improvement over TWC. And I am overwhelmed by all the HD offerings.

However, I'm not sure my internet connection is all that it should be. My web surfing speeds seem the same as before, and I ran a couple speed tests that clocked me in at about 3-4 mps download. Something looks to be off.

Are the DVR boxs that VZ gives you any good?? Some one told me they get to hot and they can start a fire is this true?? Or is this BS.??

Are the DVR boxs that VZ gives you any good?? Some one told me they get to hot and they can start a fire is this true?? Or is this BS.??
My STB is running 24/7. Hardly warm to the touch. The only preventive measure I take is I don't cover the the grill.

Are the DVR boxs that VZ gives you any good?? Some one told me they get to hot and they can start a fire is this true?? Or is this BS.??

That sounds like some B.S. the Dolans of Cablevision would spread!

Well, after a lot of phone calls I was able to get a second install attempt scheduled for yesterday. Very happily, the installation was successful, (although there were some hiccups along the way that gave me pause).

The experience was undoubtedly a frusterating one. The initial failure could have certainly been averted if the news of the broken hub had been acted upon prior to my original install date. And (I suspect) a solution on that first day would have been much more likely had Verizon not sent two incompetent and completely inexperienced techs to my home (after having a skilled tech on the job yesterday, it is all the more apparent how unqualified the original team was). And my anger could have been reduced if certain promises along the way had been satisfied. But I will say this, everyone I dealt with at Verizon, both on the phone and in my home, was patient, understanding, and very nice.

If there's anyone planning to sign up for service, I strongly advise that you get the name of a competent tech and call him first. The tech will then put in a referral with the order people which (I'm told) will get him assigned to your job (and earn him points in an amployee incentive system). You can PM for a name.

Anyway, onto the good stuff. I am delighted with the TV service. The HD quality is stunning, my TV's look transformed. There is no doubt this is a huge improvement over TWC. And I am overwhelmed by all the HD offerings.

However, I'm not sure my internet connection is all that it should be. My web surfing speeds seem the same as before, and I ran a couple speed tests that clocked me in at about 3-4 mps download. Something looks to be off.

Internet Speed: LAN or WIFI ?

On my single LAN connection I get a fairly constant 19.5/4.6. With WIFI there is some variation based on conditions. Always test with a LAN connection.

Also, the WIFI piece on the Actiontec is awful. I turned off Actiontec's WIFI and bridged my previous wireless router behind it. Bridging the old router has actually improved performance on both.

Learning the new channel sequence was crazy for a couple weeks. It's all coming together as I head into week 4.

Yes, WiFi, and I have seen rumblings elsewhere that the Aciontec is bad news. I'd like to bridge my airport express but haven't found clear instructions for doing so. Please share if you have.

Yes, WiFi, and I have seen rumblings elsewhere that the Aciontec is bad news. I'd like to bridge my airport express but haven't found clear instructions for doing so. Please share if you have.

http://www.dslreports.com/faq/verizonfios/3.0_Networking#16077

Third par down:

"·Can I use my wireless or an extra router along with the Verizon provided router?"

Yes, WiFi, and I have seen rumblings elsewhere that the Aciontec is bad news. I'd like to bridge my airport express but haven't found clear instructions for doing so. Please share if you have.

I'm assuming the Actiontec is Rev D ? It's on the router label. Otherwise you may have the small NAT table issue that affected earlier revisions and you may choose to go with one of the more complicated solutiions on the linked page. The good thing about having the Actiontec up front is that's where Verizon expects to see it and you lose no functionality.

Word. Thanks for that. I'm hoping to give that setup a go over the weekend.

I called Verizon Tech support and they walked me through some setting changes for the Actionet that have definitely upped my speeds, but still only 10-14 mps, while I'm getting a consistent 19 mps via ethernet.

Word. Thanks for that. I'm hoping to give that setup a go over the weekend.

I called Verizon Tech support and they walked me through some setting changes for the Actionet that have definitely upped my speeds, but still only 10-14 mps, while I'm getting a consistent 19 mps via ethernet.

Can you share the wireless info Verizon gave you? I have one LAN connection and multiple WIFI. I'd like to get max possible on the WIFI. Any changes to Actiontec settings ought to work across other brands.

I'm sorry, I didn't write them down, and I don't have more than a superficial understanding of this stuff, so I don't want to give you a mistaken recollection that might create a big problem. The only thing I remember for sure was I changed the channel from automatic to channel 8. The idea here was to put the router on a channel that is likely to not have much traffic in my area. The tech said in his experience channel 8 tends to be unpopular, but it's worth me experimenting with others. Channel 6, he said, tends to have a lot of traffic. You can change this by going to Wireless Settings >> Basic Settings.

Word. Thanks for that. I'm hoping to give that setup a go over the weekend.

I called Verizon Tech support and they walked me through some setting changes for the Actionet that have definitely upped my speeds, but still only 10-14 mps, while I'm getting a consistent 19 mps via ethernet.

Keep in mind, wireless will always be a little slower then wired connections.

Keep in mind, wireless will always be a little slower then wired connections.

Any view on optimal settings for these wireless controls ?

Transmit Power :
Beacon Period :
RTS Threshold :
Fragmentation Threshold :
DTIM Interval :
A-MPDU/A-MSDU Aggregation :
Short GI :
WDS Enable :

Hi Everyone,

I recently received an email stating "Fios is now available in your neighborhood" (Manhattan, 81st & 2nd) and they will begin negotiations with my building owner shortly.

I'm wondering how long this process will take. Has anyone received a similar email in the past and can state how long of a wait time they had?

I see on dslreports.com that people have fios up on 86th street so I am hoping this will happen soon but I imagine it takes a long time to re-wire each building and Verizon may concentrate on high rise apartments first as opposed to my building which only has 10 apartments.

Thank you for any insights.

Hi Everyone,

I recently received an email stating "Fios is now available in your neighborhood" (Manhattan, 81st & 2nd) and they will begin negotiations with my building owner shortly.

I'm wondering how long this process will take. Has anyone received a similar email in the past and can state how long of a wait time they had?

I see on dslreports.com that people have fios up on 86th street so I am hoping this will happen soon but I imagine it takes a long time to re-wire each building and Verizon may concentrate on high rise apartments first as opposed to my building which only has 10 apartments.

Thank you for any insights.

Once FIOS is in your building you might get an appointment in 3 days. The rest depends on their negotiations with your landlord.

Can someone verify for me what sound output I should be getting from my FIOS. Whenever I'm watching TV (no matter the channel) the sound on my home theater says Pro Logic. But when I play a Blu-Ray/videogame on my PS3, the sound says Dolby Digital.

Here's the set-up: I have 3 HDMI cables - 1 from the FIOS box to the TV, 1 from the PS3 to the TV, and 1 out from the TV to the home theater.

Why are there different audio outputs from the two sources? Is Pro Logic comparable to Dolby Digital or not as good?

Thanks if anyone can give me any directions as to whether it should be set up better or reassure that's the correct sound output from FIOS.

Does FiOS use "pole traps" to prevent "basic" TV Signal theft? I ask because I'm curious to see if "clear QAM" could ever be a possibility w/o major conditional access changes.

I simply think ~$3 per CableCARD is outrageous.

Can someone verify for me what sound output I should be getting from my FIOS. Whenever I'm watching TV (no matter the channel) the sound on my home theater says Pro Logic. But when I play a Blu-Ray/videogame on my PS3, the sound says Dolby Digital.

Here's the set-up: I have 3 HDMI cables - 1 from the FIOS box to the TV, 1 from the PS3 to the TV, and 1 out from the TV to the home theater.

Why are there different audio outputs from the two sources? Is Pro Logic comparable to Dolby Digital or not as good?

Thanks if anyone can give me any directions as to whether it should be set up better or reassure that's the correct sound output from FIOS.

I'm using the coax digital audio out and my receiver shows its receiving 5.1 Dolby digital. Is your "audio format" set to "surround"? I can't test your setup as my receiver doesn't have HDMI. However I did have a similar issue with my old CV box. It set the format on both HDMI and coax at the same time. When set to HDMI the receiver only got stereo when set to Dolby format the receiver got 5.1 Dolby and the TV had no sound.

Does FiOS use "pole traps" to prevent "basic" TV Signal theft? I ask because I'm curious to see if "clear QAM" could ever be a possibility w/o major conditional access changes.

I simply think ~$3 per CableCARD is outrageous.

Compared to what, the 6 bucks they charge for a box?

Does FiOS use "pole traps" to prevent "basic" TV Signal theft? I ask because I'm curious to see if "clear QAM" could ever be a possibility w/o major conditional access changes.


You're confusing Fios w/cable. The lines are fiber optic so that there is no way you can receive the signal without an ONT (optical network terminal) which converts the "light" to a usable phone, internet and video signal.

Hi Everyone,

I recently received an email stating "Fios is now available in your neighborhood" (Manhattan, 81st & 2nd) and they will begin negotiations with my building owner shortly.

I'm wondering how long this process will take. Has anyone received a similar email in the past and can state how long of a wait time they had?

I see on dslreports.com that people have fios up on 86th street so I am hoping this will happen soon but I imagine it takes a long time to re-wire each building and Verizon may concentrate on high rise apartments first as opposed to my building which only has 10 apartments.

Thank you for any insights.

i received this email a few months ago. since i'm on the co-op board, i called Verizon to see if i could expedite the situation to get the building wired up. NO ONE knew what the hell i was talking about. i got bounced around from corporate to customer service to business sales to residential sales and back all over again. they were very polite but had no idea what was going on.

it was very frustrating to say the least. i haven't tried again since, but i did call TWC to tell them Verizon had arrived in the 'hood, and they promptly lowered my bill by about $50/month. so there's that.

Did anyone record the Grammys last night on their DVR? Does anyone still have the recording? Did the opening number (U2) sound bad, and did it fix itself about five minutes into the program (after "The Rock" did his monologue?) I'd love to document this, so let me know if you can confirm or deny this. Thanks!

anyone ever seen a weird sync problem where the picture is broken into 3 pieces............

top half of image shown on bottom of screen
lower half of image split in 2 pieces and shows at top of screen

huh?

i power cycled (unplugged) both of my 7100 boxes and hopefully will never see this again

i had this on the comedy channel two night ago while watching colbert

I can't find it with a search to save my life, so can someone with just the triple play (Extreme HD, Phone, Net) tell me how much they pay in taxes for NYC or BK. IF you have 2 or more boxes, please mention that as well.

Thanks in advance.

I can't find it with a search to save my life, so can someone with just the triple play (Extreme HD, Phone, Net) tell me how much they pay in taxes for NYC or BK. IF you have 2 or more boxes, please mention that as well.

Thanks in advance.

Off my bill:

124.99 with $30 movie package
15.99 DVR box
19.50 Taxes and Fees

160.48 Total

Off my bill:

124.99 with $30 movie package
15.99 DVR box
19.50 Taxes and Fees

160.48 Total

Thank you for this info. I have a good idea of true cost now.

WNJU-DT Telemundo 47 has switched from 480i to 1080i. Any word on when FiOS might be adding their HD feed to the Northern, NJ and NYC area systems?

Can someone verify for me what sound output I should be getting from my FIOS. Whenever I'm watching TV (no matter the channel) the sound on my home theater says Pro Logic. But when I play a Blu-Ray/videogame on my PS3, the sound says Dolby Digital.

Here's the set-up: I have 3 HDMI cables - 1 from the FIOS box to the TV, 1 from the PS3 to the TV, and 1 out from the TV to the home theater.

Why are there different audio outputs from the two sources? Is Pro Logic comparable to Dolby Digital or not as good?

Thanks if anyone can give me any directions as to whether it should be set up better or reassure that's the correct sound output from FIOS.

Ah, I know what the problem is... you are trying to loop DD through the TV. Won't work. The way HDMI works, if the "next: device can't decode any multi-channel audio (save stereo) only Pro Logic gets sent. You need to run a optical/component cable from the FIOS box directly to your receiver.

You need to run a optical/component cable from the FIOS box directly to your receiver.

This is the way mine is and it works perfectly. HDMI to the the TV for stereo and COAX to the reciever for 5.1. When I want suround I turn down the TV volume and turn on the receiver. (BTW the CV SA HDMI box couldn't switch between them without changing settings everytime - score one more for Fios)

Found a neat control on the FIOS Moto Box. Don't recall having seen similar on T-W's SciAtl boxes.

Go Settings / Video Settings / SD Override. Choose 480i.

SD image now fills the 16 x 9 screen. On all SD channels. Without reverting to pillars when you change the channel as happens when the aspect button on the remote is used.