I think the replies got crossed.

Frankthebunny said he'd need new boxes. Tybee asked the bunny what kind of boxes he had. Then petelang replied that he had DCHs.

I don't think Frank has answered yet.

Yes, thats exactly what happened!

Thanks for pointing that out!

So is a DCT-6412 phase 2 (with DVI) compatible? If not I'm going to need a new box. I know don't want a DCH box until they fix the recording light issue.

What is different besides the display on the DCH?

What is different besides the display on the DCH?
I blelieve that the new boxes also allow transferring of shows between boxes. That feature I believe is still in the works. That would be better than any tivo rollout.....

I do not believe that the new boxes have any additional capabilities in that regard. (Specifically, I believe the OLD boxes can and will support transferring shows between boxes as well.)

The only significant difference between DCT-series and DCH-series, I believe, is separable security, something end-users wouldn't even notice.

I do not believe that the new boxes have any additional capabilities in that regard. (Specifically, I believe the OLD boxes can and will support transferring shows between boxes as well.)

The only significant difference between DCT-series and DCH-series, I believe, is separable security, something end-users wouldn't even notice.

don't tell me that you will not notice the cable card stick out of the DCH boxes?

I believe the CableCards is inserted in the back, it doesn't stick out, and the port for it is covered-over so that it cannot even be removed. Effectively, it is almost like it is installed inside.

I do not believe that the new boxes have any additional capabilities in that regard. (Specifically, I believe the OLD boxes can and will support transferring shows between boxes as well.)

The only significant difference between DCT-series and DCH-series, I believe, is separable security, something end-users wouldn't even notice.

what about speed? I see people post that the new one is faster, is the just perception or proven?

what about speed? I see people post that the new one is faster, is the just perception or proven?

most likely depends on what box they had before the 3412-3416 is faster than a 6412-6416 in my opinion, but if the person went from a 3416 to a DCH 3416 it's the same except the added cablecard.

most likely depends on what box they had before the 3412-3416 is faster than a 6412-6416 in my opinion, but if the person went from a 3416 to a DCH 3416 it's the same except the added cablecard.

Agreed. I saw a substantial improvement in speed and reliability going from a 6412 to a DCT-3416. Doubt there's much difference between the DCT and DCH, though.

I suspect Comcast would ideally like for people to have a 3416 (DCH or DCT) for the Tivo upgrade, but I have no strong evidence to back that up.

I believe the CableCards is inserted in the back, it doesn't stick out, and the port for it is covered-over so that it cannot even be removed. Effectively, it is almost like it is installed inside.

I was just saying that because the old boxes didn't need cards, but the dch do and the end of the card most likely sticks out the back of the dch box.

Agreed. I saw a substantial improvement in speed and reliability going from a 6412 to a DCT-3416. Doubt there's much difference between the DCT and DCH, though.

I suspect Comcast would ideally like for people to have a 3416 (DCH or DCT) for the Tivo upgrade, but I have no strong evidence to back that up.

I am going with that the tivo software runs slower on a 6412-6416, so they will probably replace those, so they use them for people who don't want the tivo upgrade.

Well I did read that the CPU in a 6412(or 6416) phase 3 box is clocked faster than the one in a 6412 phase 2. I thought a DCT-34xx box was the exact same board as a 64xx phase 3 minus analog tuners.

But perhaps with each board revision they up the clock speed a little bit at a time.

I have the 6412 Phase 2 with DVI and it's soooo slow. The fastest box I have is a DCT-700.

The DCH's cable card is tucked inside a slot in the back behind a metal sleeve. The metal sleeve has a screw on it to keep it secure. If you remove the barcode label on it (they usually put the cable card barcode ID on this sleeve), and unscrew the metal door, you can finally get to the card.

All of this work to accomplish a whole lot of nothing. Gee, thanks FCC for a useless separable security mandate.

Well I did read that the CPU in a 6412(or 6416) phase 3 box is clocked faster than the one in a 6412 phase 2. I thought a DCT-34xx box was the exact same board as a 64xx phase 3 minus analog tuners.

But perhaps with each board revision they up the clock speed a little bit at a time.

I have the 6412 Phase 2 with DVI and it's soooo slow. The fastest box I have is a DCT-700.

The DCH's cable card is tucked inside a slot in the back behind a metal sleeve. The metal sleeve has a screw on it to keep it secure. If you remove the barcode label on it (they usually put the cable card barcode ID on this sleeve), and unscrew the metal door, you can finally get to the card.

All of this work to accomplish a whole lot of nothing. Gee, thanks FCC for a useless separable security mandate.


I also heard the 6412 and 6416 phase3 have better video encoders

I was just saying that because the old boxes didn't need cards, but the dch do and the end of the card most likely sticks out the back of the dch box.Again, I don't believe that's the case. They don't stick out. They're fully inside. And the ports are covered over. If you didn't know the ports were there, you wouldn't know the ports were there.

Again, I don't believe that's the case. They don't stick out. They're fully inside. And the ports are covered over. If you didn't know the ports were there, you wouldn't know the ports were there.

The card is fully covered by the metal bracket and a screw. You don't see the card at all.

Pete

--
http://www.petelanglois.net

Again, I don't believe that's the case. They don't stick out. They're fully inside. And the ports are covered over. If you didn't know the ports were there, you wouldn't know the ports were there.

I recently swapped my DCT-3412 for a DCH-3416 at a walk in center, as soon as I took it out of the bag, I noticed that it had a cable card, about 3/4" of the card sticks out and is covered by a bit of metal or maybe it's plastic.

The reason I swapped it out was for the larger HDD, but I also noticed that i get better response from the box. With the DCT-3412 I often would have requests from the remote queue up and than all get executed 2, 4, 6 seconds later. That hasn't happened with the DCH-3416. I also happen to like the look of the DCH, I think it looks a lot more modern. If only they would get the record light to work.

-Bruce

I recently swapped my DCT-3412 for a DCH-3416 at a walk in center, as soon as I took it out of the bag, I noticed that it had a cable card, about 3/4" of the card sticks out and is covered by a bit of metal or maybe it's plastic.

The reason I swapped it out was for the larger HDD, but I also noticed that i get better response from the box. With the DCT-3412 I often would have requests from the remote queue up and than all get executed 2, 4, 6 seconds later. That hasn't happened with the DCH-3416. I also happen to like the look of the DCH, I think it looks a lot more modern. If only they would get the record light to work.

-Bruce

Yeah that dang record light is stopping me from trading to that box.
Sure my 6412 is slow, and has 40gb less space, but at least it works.

rage166,
TiVo 30 second skip can be tricky to enable if you have never done it before.
Give the instructions here (http://www.weaknees.com/30/) a try.
If you don't hear the 3 bongs, try again and vary the amount of time between the button presses.


Tried that, still didnt work.

so rage166....you've had a couple hours to play with this new Comcast/Tivo interface. Since you have never owned a Tivo, you are an excellent case study. I'd love to see your thoughts on it from a comparison to the old Comcast DVR (if you had it)...speed, quality, usability, blah blah blah.

Overall I'm quite pleased with the speed and the quality of the interface. I haven't had any hiccups during operation at all. I did not have a comcast DVR before this, I just got rid of my LG LRM-519 (Which I loved but didn't support my new HDTV.)

rage166,

Did they give you a new (tivo or tivo style) remote or are you using the original Comcast remote?

-Bruce

They gave me the new tivo remote when they showed up to install it

(sorry about all these seperate posts everyone, i can't figure out the multi-reply thing)durrrr

Doesn't that sound mean that you are at the end of the buffer (i.e. watching live TV), and can not FF anymore. Are you sure you tried it when you had something to skip?

I attempted it during a recorded program.

what boxes do the users with comcast tivo installed already have?

DCH3416

I used to check this thread often. It's been 4 or 5 months since I last visited. Here we are, a year and a half after scanpa started the coming soon thread, and it is coming! I going to guess Summer for the Left Coast. Then, if it goes well, I can finally bag the SD D* service my wife insists on because it has TiVo. Personally, I don't mind the I-guide, but my wife is totally set in her ways. I hope I don't snap out of a dream later tonight and discover my subconcious made this all up.

so can someone give us a review of the old comcast interface vs the new tivo interface pros and cons??

So, so far we have 2 users who have not had Tivos before. I hope we get someone soon who is experienced in the Tivo ways to let us know how it is from that point of view.

So, so far we have 2 users who have not had Tivos before. I hope we get someone soon who is experienced in the Tivo ways to let us know how it is from that point of view.

Also two users who didn't have 30 second skip working on iguide before the upgrade. I'll be more convinced that skip is dead when someone upgrades from working to nonworking on the same box/remote.

So, so far we have 2 users who have not had Tivos before. I hope we get someone soon who is experienced in the Tivo ways to let us know how it is from that point of view.


I would consider it but the lack of TT2GO and MRV support between the Comcast boxes and the Series3/TivoHD boxes make this a total no-go for me.

I want the ability to stream shows from one Tivo to another in the house so it looks like a 2nd budget Tivo HD for this kid.

You could always get it temporarily and see how you like it if you already have a Comcast box.

I would consider it but the lack of TT2GO and MRV support between the Comcast boxes and the Series3/TivoHD boxes make this a total no-go for me.

Not to mention esata support...

I would consider it but the lack of TT2GO and MRV support between the Comcast boxes and the Series3/TivoHD boxes make this a total no-go for me.

I want the ability to stream shows from one Tivo to another in the house so it looks like a 2nd budget Tivo HD for this kid.

We probably will never see a Cable tivo and a real tivo being able to transfer between the two. Thye real tivo uses ethernet and the cable tivo will use the cable wire.

Please let us know how long the download took. Did your old programs survive the download? And where there any hiccups in the download? Did it look like the techs had to assist the download in anyway? I'm curious because I am sure this won't be released to the masses until the download is able to work on its own without a truck roll.

Hi Just had my Comcast TiVo software downloaded...

My installation experience is on my blog, Off On A Tangent dot com

Went to the blog, but there were only three or four lines, nothing about the "experience."

Went to the blog, but there were only three or four lines, nothing about the "experience."

One more post and I'll be able to post URL's.

One more post and I'll be able to post URL's.

http://offonatangent.blogspot.com/2007/12/tivo-central-on-comcast-dvr.html

Steve,

Great description of the current installation nightmare. But glad you got it and look forward to your detailed report on the new interface.

http://offonatangent.blogspot.com/2007/12/tivo-central-on-comcast-dvr.html

The groups do work on Tivo central. With my Comcast Tivo/DVR, there needs to be two or more of the same recordings in order for a folder to be created unless its a tivo suggestion. Its great that you're saved recordings carried over but they not be grouped because they were recording without the tivo software on the box. Congrats on your install. Sounds like it went smoother then mine.

My installation went smooth. I guess it really just comes down to the quality of your hookup and wiring. If you get a good signal at your TV, then it should be like my experience. The main download took like 20 minutes. The guy who did mine is training other techs on how to do it. It sounds like they are getting better at it, which may also explain why my experience was not so bad. I have a 3412 and the box was not swapped out. My programming survived the process. The guy gave me a remote while he was there.

The box gets converted into a modem and gets 2 IP addresses. This is why it needs such a good signal. The box/tivo software works by communicating with 3 different servers, although I do not know any details about specifically what info comes from each of the 3.

I have had both Tivo and most recently the standard comcast DVR. I only used it for about half an hour before I had to leave, so here are limited impressions:

Tivo - Remote is definitely less responsive than my series 2 SD tivo was. It has a little PIP window in the guide and Tivo screen which my Tivo did not. I can't think of more things to say here. I probably need to use it more. Plus it's been a while since I used my Tivo.

Comcast DVR - Wow. The response of the playback control buttons is so much better. Oh and I had forgotten about the "jump back" feature when you press play from fast forwarding. That drove me nuts when I first switched to this from Tivo. Best feature ever. It's hard to list specific items here. I hated the original software and this seems better in basically every possible way. But, again, I suppose I need to spend more time with it.

I can try to answer specific questions. The tech guy did mention that the non-Tivo guide is being update around January in a fairly significant way. Although I find it hard to believe it could beat what the Tivo guys can do.

Comcast DVR - Wow. The response of the playback control buttons is so much better. Oh and I had forgotten about the "jump back" feature when you press play from fast forwarding. That drove me nuts when I first switched to this from Tivo. Best feature ever. It's hard to list specific items here. I hated the original software and this seems better in basically every possible way. But, again, I suppose I need to spend more time with it.

I can not believe that the Comcast TiVo interface increases the number of clicks needed to Fast Forward from THREE to FOUR.

This is not user friendly. Please!

The old standard TiVo interface with THREE CLICKS is so much better. I'll be testing this out later tonight, but first impressions are that it is requiring me to learn a NEW interface, instead of keeping hte standard THREE CLICK fast forward interface.

It's just going to result in thousands of EXTRA clicks over time.

Not acceptable.

I can try to answer specific questions. The tech guy did mention that the non-Tivo guide is being update around January in a fairly significant way. Although I find it hard to believe it could beat what the Tivo guys can do.

I'm just curious if they updated the Motorola firmware as well.

Power off the box and quickly push ok/select

Scroll down to d08 code modules.
Mine is Version 16.35 built Feb 2 2007. I have 3 objects:
TV_CS_CB 16.35
TV_Guide 74.54
s_SEACVO 04.82

What's a Tivo box show?

Scroll down to d14 DOCSIS STATUS
Does it show DOCSIS enabled with a DS and US channel, IP address and levels? Is it the same frequencies as your cable modem?

Does the box still use d04 Inband Status and d16 Interactive Status? If it uses DOCSIS would it still need to use these other two methods of communication?

I'm just curious if they updated the Motorola firmware as well.

Power off the box and quickly push ok/select

Scroll down to d08 code modules.
Mine is Version 16.35 built Feb 2 2007. I have 3 objects:
TV_CS_CB 16.35
TV_Guide 74.54
s_SEACVO 04.82

What's a Tivo box show?

Scroll down to d14 DOCSIS STATUS
Does it show DOCSIS enabled with a DS and US channel, IP address and levels? Is it the same frequencies as your cable modem?

Does the box still use d04 Inband Status and d16 Interactive Status? If it uses DOCSIS would it still need to use these other two methods of communication?

Golly, I hope someone knows what he's talking about.

Comcast DVR - Wow. The response of the playback control buttons is so much better. Oh and I had forgotten about the "jump back" feature when you press play from fast forwarding. That drove me nuts when I first switched to this from Tivo. Best feature ever. It's hard to list specific items here. I hated the original software and this seems better in basically every possible way. But, again, I suppose I need to spend more time with it.


Congrats on your install. It does sound like the installs are getting better and better.
I can not believe that the Comcast TiVo interface increases the number of clicks needed to Fast Forward from THREE to FOUR.

This is not user friendly. Please!

The old standard TiVo interface with THREE CLICKS is so much better. I'll be testing this out later tonight, but first impressions are that it is requiring me to learn a NEW interface, instead of keeping hte standard THREE CLICK fast forward interface.

It's just going to result in thousands of EXTRA clicks over time.

Not acceptable.

The Comcast DVR had four fast forward and rewind options. I have to disagree with you and say four clicks is better then three. In using the fast forward clicks, I've never gone more then three and that's where the jump back happens after pressing play. I've used four on programs I've accidently restared. I wish the feature was available for VOD.

VERY acceptable. But I guess it depends on what you are comparing it to. I am comparing my experience to my comcast dvr prior to the swap.

I'm just curious if they updated the Motorola firmware as well.

Power off the box and quickly push ok/select

Scroll down to d08 code modules.
Mine is Version 16.35 built Feb 2 2007. I have 3 objects:
TV_CS_CB 16.35
TV_Guide 74.54
s_SEACVO 04.82

What's a Tivo box show?

Scroll down to d14 DOCSIS STATUS
Does it show DOCSIS enabled with a DS and US channel, IP address and levels? Is it the same frequencies as your cable modem?

Does the box still use d04 Inband Status and d16 Interactive Status? If it uses DOCSIS would it still need to use these other two methods of communication?I saw all those screens when they were checking the install, but I forget the values. Thanks for posting the command to get back into the status screen. I missed what they were doing. I'm pretty sure I remember seeing more than three modules. I'll check when I get home.

There was two IP addresses and various level/signal and other things on the docsis status screen. I'll post that info, but how would I know what freq my cable modem uses? It doesn't have a 50 inch screen attached to it. :D

Scroll down to d08 code modules.
Mine is Version 16.35 built Feb 2 2007. I have 3 objects:
TV_CS_CB 16.35
TV_Guide 74.54
s_SEACVO 04.82

What's a Tivo box show?

Should be 5 I believe.


Scroll down to d14 DOCSIS STATUS
Does it show DOCSIS enabled with a DS and US channel, IP address and levels? Is it the same frequencies as your cable modem?

Yes, because it's using a cable modem now.


Does the box still use d04 Inband Status and d16 Interactive Status? If it uses DOCSIS would it still need to use these other two methods of communication?

I believe yes on this one. The Inband status would be the same because the channels are still on the same frequencies, however when Comcast changes over to SDV (switched digital video) this may change.
Sorry I don't have a Comcast Tivo box in front of me, I'm going from memory on these. The other guys with the Tivo boxes in their houses can feel free to correct me.

Platfirm Built Version 16.43
Sept 25, 2007

There are 5 listed Object under that.

d06 and d16 is the same.

I believe yes on this one. The Inband status would be the same because the channels are still on the same frequencies, however when Comcast changes over to SDV (switched digital video) this may change.
Sorry I don't have a Comcast Tivo box in front of me, I'm going from memory on these. The other guys with the Tivo boxes in their houses can feel free to correct me.

Oh doh! I meant the screen with OOB status. Like mine for example shows 104.2 MHz 20 SNR GOOD.

Thats the old traditional forward communication channel. My reverse path (Upstream Modem page) shows 8.096 MHz I believe, at 55 dB.

So they do have to update the underlying Motorola firmware from 16.35 to 16.43?

but how would I know what freq my cable modem uses? It doesn't have a 50 inch screen attached to it. :D

Depends on the modem, but most have a status page if you go to http://192.168.100.1
Mine shows:
requency 723000000 Hz
Signal to Noise Ratio 36 dB
Downstream Modulation QAM256
Network Access Control Object ON
Power Level -5 dBmV

Upstream Value
Channel ID 5
Frequency 24000000 Hz
Ranging Service ID 5247
Symbol Rate 2.560 Msym/s
Power Level 45 dBmV
Upstream Modulation [3] QPSK
[2] 16QAM

I can not believe that the Comcast TiVo interface increases the number of clicks needed to Fast Forward from THREE to FOUR....

It's just going to result in thousands of EXTRA clicks over time.

Not acceptable.

You're joking, right?

You're joking, right?
Maybe he's saving his thumbs for texting... ;)

http://offonatangent.blogspot.com/2007/12/tivo-central-on-comcast-dvr.html

I was lucky to be the first Comcast user in Boston to get the TiVo interface.

Sorry to break this to you Steve, but I believe another poster from a few pages back already has his TiVo installed before you and he lives in Brookline. Unless you do not include Brookline as being part of Boston.

Good evening,
Maybe this question is obvious and I know the answer...but just want to clarify it in my own mind. I have Comcast for cable tv but another provider for my high speed internet and phone. Will my dvrs' still be able to download the tivo software?

Thanks

Tom

Good evening,
Maybe this question is obvious and I know the answer...but just want to clarify it in my own mind. I have Comcast for cable tv but another provider for my high speed internet and phone. Will my dvrs' still be able to download the tivo software?

Thanks

Tom

You only need to have one of the DVR boxes and a good signal. No HSI or CDV required.

Thanks..I appreciate the reassurance.

Tom

I can not believe that the Comcast TiVo interface increases the number of clicks needed to Fast Forward from THREE to FOUR.

This is not user friendly. Please!

The old standard TiVo interface with THREE CLICKS is so much better. I'll be testing this out later tonight, but first impressions are that it is requiring me to learn a NEW interface, instead of keeping hte standard THREE CLICK fast forward interface.

It's just going to result in thousands of EXTRA clicks over time.

Not acceptable.

Yeah, but that 4th click unlocks the SuperSekritFF4BonusLevel!

SHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!! Its super secret.

That said, I wonder what the FF speeds are for each level. THe old Comcast FF max speed was dreadfully slow for long programs. Also, can you jump to tick marks?

SHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!! Its super secret.

That said, I wonder what the FF speeds are for each level. THe old Comcast FF max speed was dreadfully slow for long programs. Also, can you jump to tick marks?

The tick marks are there but I haven't figured out how to work it. Perhaps its in the fifth click.....

Are there multiple VOD FF and REW speeds now? Any tick marks in VOD programs, or are we still limited to the laggy response single speed FF and REW?

The tick marks are there but I haven't figured out how to work it. Perhaps its in the fifth click.....

Press the [Advance] button to skip ahead to tick marks while Fast Forwarding.

Sorry to break this to you Steve, but I believe another poster from a few pages back already has his TiVo installed before you and he lives in Brookline. Unless you do not include Brookline as being part of Boston.

Brookline is not part of Boston.

The Comcast DVR had four fast forward and rewind options. I have to disagree with you and say four clicks is better then three. In using the fast forward clicks, I've never gone more then three and that's where the jump back happens after pressing play. I've used four on programs I've accidently restared. I wish the feature was available for VOD.

VERY acceptable. But I guess it depends on what you are comparing it to. I am comparing my experience to my comcast dvr prior to the swap.

Thanks for posting this. I never used the PLAY button to resume play...

It's a user issue.

With the old TiVo you press FF three times and when you see the show start, you press FF again and the TiVo jumps back a little to start playback where the show starts again.

With the new TiVo, pressing FF four times makes it go too fast and then pressing FF again doesn't seem to support jump back.

BUT, if I press FF three times, and then press PLAY, when I see the show start, jump back seems to work.

It's a new way of using FF, with the PLAY key, but it seems to work.

Thanks for posting this. I never used the PLAY button to resume play...

It's a user issue.

With the old TiVo you press FF three times and when you see the show start, you press FF again and the TiVo jumps back a little to start playback where the show starts again.

With the new TiVo, pressing FF four times makes it go too fast and then pressing FF again doesn't seem to support jump back.

BUT, if I press FF three times, and then press PLAY, when I see the show start, jump back seems to work.

It's a new way of using FF, with the PLAY key, but it seems to work.

Pressing PLAY is how the Comcast DVR normally worked. So what we have here is Tivo's interface with Comcast DVR funcationality with a few tweaks. What I seem as normal, you see as different. Its more user experience rather then user issue because I see no issue with the interface other then it insists on recording SD over HD for tivo recomendations (basketball games on TNT and ESPN are my examples). The original lagginess of the system appears to be gone. I've never used Tivo before so my view on this interface would certainly be different then yours.

It is important to remember that the target audience for this service are folks used to Comcast's DVR, not folks used to stand-alone TiVos.

just an observation. I have noticed many people here knocking this so far based upon the SA Tivo's. I have been somewhat suprised, but then I realized, I put up with Series 1 DirecTivo's, and DirecTivo HD units. I think that I will be pleasantly surprised with the functionality of the Comcast Tivo compared to those!

Now what I want to know is how do I get into the Tivo and take video off...

just an observation. I have noticed many people here knocking this so far based upon the SA Tivo's. I have been somewhat suprised, but then I realized, I put up with Series 1 DirecTivo's, and DirecTivo HD units. I think that I will be pleasantly surprised with the functionality of the Comcast Tivo compared to those!

Now what I want to know is how do I get into the Tivo and take video off...

you don't it's not like a real tivo.

Stephen Garfield is full of schlit. He was not the first person in Boston with a Comcast TIVO DVR. Garfield knows nothing about the subject. He spends his time blogging because he doesn't have a job. He complains so much about Comcast....why does he keep them as his provider? Stevie...you are not that special!!

Stephen Garfield was not the first to receive a Motorola DVR with TIVO software in Boston. Stephen is so full of crap. He should start blogging about sports because he knows nothing about electronics.

Stephen Garfield was not the first to receive a Motorola DVR with TIVO software in Boston. Stephen is so full of crap. He should start blogging about sports because he knows nothing about electronics.

Dude... relax... I dont see anyone else blogging about their installs... and really, no one likes Comcast, we are just stuck with them and tolerate them as they are the lesser of the 2 evils (cable vs. sat.)

If you have issue with Garfield... bring it up to him... no one cares what you have to say when you rip on other people.

Do you have the Comcast TiVo installed? Did you do a write up? Your only 2 posts are ripping on this guy... have anything to actually contribute?

Lets keep on topic and not bash each other. This is NOT the forum for it.

I want to hear from everyone whether they like the new TiVo interface or not. Just accept what everyone says with a grain of salt until you get it yourself.

99.99% of us here want to know the good and the bad. Keep posting your experiences guys and forget the .01%!

Are there multiple VOD FF and REW speeds now? Any tick marks in VOD programs, or are we still limited to the laggy response single speed FF and REW?

My understanding of how VOD works is that the server stores 3 versions of the program, normal playback, rewind, and fast-forward. When you rewind or fast-forward it shows you a different file it doesn't actually fast-forward the file. That makes sense if you think about it because it would take a lot of CPU on the server to be able to fast-forward everyone's video, while it takes very little CPU to act as a file server. So unless Comcast wants to increase the disk space requirements of each show by 66% you won't be seeing faster rewind and fast-forward anytime soon.

To anyone with the TiVO download: How is the guide? Is it similar to the standard TiVO guide, or is it the same crappy Comcast guide? Does the guide go longer than the seven days or so of the Comcast guide? Has anyone been able to enable the 30-second skip on the new TiVO d/l?

Dude... relax... I dont see anyone else blogging about their installs... and really, no one likes Comcast, we are just stuck with them and tolerate them as they are the lesser of the 2 evils (cable vs. sat.)

If you have issue with Garfield... bring it up to him... no one cares what you have to say when you rip on other people.

Do you have the Comcast TiVo installed? Did you do a write up? Your only 2 posts are ripping on this guy... have anything to actually contribute?

I wouldn't call Comcast the lesser of two evils given how bad Verizon has been doing with their customer service and installs. However, in Derry, my choices are cable vs sat because Verizon is trying to dump off northern New England to Fairpoint. I do not blog about my install because I came here to post about it and I'm happy to answer any one's questions about the service seeing how I've had it since day one of the release. The only issue I have with Garfield is his point of view is a bit skewed. I do compare what I have now to what Comcast DVR was like before and there are goods and bads. However....

To anyone with the TiVO download: How is the guide? Is it similar to the standard TiVO guide, or is it the same crappy Comcast guide? Does the guide go longer than the seven days or so of the Comcast guide? Has anyone been able to enable the 30-second skip on the new TiVO d/l?

The guide is more like Tivo from what I've seen from Tivo's web site. It seems to go out any where from 10 to 14 days. I have not figured out the 30 second skip but I do like the 4 options to rewind and fast forward. I happen to like to stop and watch the Mac commercials with John Hodges. Anyways, the product does need some fine tuning but it is a better alternative then the current Comcast DVR software. Another issue I have is that the tivo sounds does not work on my set up because I am using optical and hdmi out from my box. But I was told a fix is in the works.

Hybucket
Your question about whether the Comcast DVR allows the "30 second skip" that people figured out how to hack onto the Tivo is maybe my main concern about changing from my Tivo to the the Comcast DVR. I find the skip indispensible.
Also, my regular Comcast Digital HD box remote controls my Tivo, (at least a little) but I can't figure a way to program it for the skip.

My main concern is the guide - I can't imagine that either the Comcast remote OR the TiVO remote can't be programmed for the skip. My Comcast guide BARELY goes 7 days...very spotty after that, and the same for most others' boxes I've tested. If the downloaded TiVO uses that guide, I'll have to go with a Series 3.

Hybucket
Your question about whether the Comcast DVR allows the "30 second skip" that people figured out how to hack onto the Tivo is maybe my main concern about changing from my Tivo to the the Comcast DVR. I find the skip indispensible.
Also, my regular Comcast Digital HD box remote controls my Tivo, (at least a little) but I can't figure a way to program it for the skip.

The Comcast DVR's iGuide software DOES have a 30-sec skip. And as you say, the Tivo does as well. The only open question is whether the Comcast Tivo has the capability to do a 30-second skip. So far, we don't have a definitive answer to that question. As with the Comcast iGuide and the regular Tivo, I'm sure it's a hidden function. It's just a matter of someone figuring out how to unlock it. But I would be shocked if they eliminated the 30-second skip altogether.

While we're at, can any of the early Comcast Tivo adopters confirm that it offers an "instant replay" button (i.e., 15 seconds back)? Is there a dedicated button on the new peanut remote?

My main concern is the guide - I can't imagine that either the Comcast remote OR the TiVO remote can't be programmed for the skip. My Comcast guide BARELY goes 7 days...very spotty after that, and the same for most others' boxes I've tested. If the downloaded TiVO uses that guide, I'll have to go with a Series 3.

I think the fact that your guide only goes as far as seven days has more to do with your local headend than it does with your cable box or the software. I can see 10-14 days ahead on my DCT-3416 with the iGuide. I could also see about that far out on the 6412 I had before that. You might try polling other Comcast subscribers in your area and see if they are experiencing the same seven-day limit.

While we're at, can any of the early Comcast Tivo adopters confirm that it offers an "instant replay" button (i.e., 15 seconds back)? Is there a dedicated button on the new peanut remote?

Yes. Yes.

Is it confirmed that the Tivo upcharge over the craptastic Comca$t DVR is indeed $2.95? Or does it vary by market?

Is it confirmed that the Tivo upcharge over the craptastic Comca$t DVR is indeed $2.95? Or does it vary by market?

According to tivo's CEO, its $2.95 nation wide

Anyone have or know of a picture to share of the new remote?

Good stuff here from our friend Steve...

http://www.flickr.com/photos/stevegarfield/sets/72157603515035363/detail/

Thanks Steve!

Good stuff here from our friend Steve...

http://www.flickr.com/photos/stevegarfield/sets/72157603515035363/detail/

Thanks Steve!
My thanks to both of you!

Happy Holidays!

Any idea when the TiVo will be available elsewhere? I can call Comcast for our area, but what do I ask for? I am almost sure if I ask about TiVo they will say "huh?"!

Any word on whether the guide stretches to fill the whole screen, i.e., letterbox format? From the posted pics, it looks like the answer is no, but it's difficult to tell.

I saw a Comcast tech in an apt. building in Boston today. He seemed reasonably bright and articulate, and said he had been working for Comcast for quite a while, so I asked him when he thought that the TiVO D/L would be available in the metro Boston area. He said it was available now and that all you needed was two cable cards. I said, no, I mean the D/L to the Moto box. He said, Oh yeah, we've heard something about that.
So much for the "bright" part.

The Comcast tech just left and I now have two DCH-3416 boxes running the Tivo software. Each down load took about 10 to 15 minutes. They were scheduled to come yesterday afternoon, but had to cancel, and to my amazement rescheduled for this morning. I had called up earlier in the week to have the one DVR box I had at the time converted, then on Friday I ended up treating myself to an HD TV for my bedroom and picked up a second Comcast DVR at the walk in center. The tech had no problem doing both of them.

I've had a Series2 Tivo for years, so I can answer any questions on the difference of Tivo vs Comcast Tivo.

My previously recorded shows now show up on my boxes.

I have some things I have to do this morning before I get to play, but I know the first thing I plan to do is pare the many hundreds of channels in the guide down the the 50 or so I might ever watch.

-Bruce
Brookline MA

Any word on whether the guide stretches to fill the whole screen, i.e., letterbox format? From the posted pics, it looks like the answer is no, but it's difficult to tell.

If you are on a standard channel, the guide stretches. If you are on an HD channel, it is the regular 4:3 format.

The Comcast tech just left and I now have two DCH-3416 boxes running the Tivo software. Each down load took about 10 to 15 minutes. They were scheduled to come yesterday afternoon, but had to cancel, and to my amazement rescheduled for this morning. I had called up earlier in the week to have the one DVR box I had at the time converted, then on Friday I ended up treating myself to an HD TV for my bedroom and picked up a second Comcast DVR at the walk in center. The tech had no problem doing both of them.

I've had a Series2 Tivo for years, so I can answer any questions on the difference of Tivo vs Comcast Tivo.

My previously recorded shows now show up on my boxes.

I have some things I have to do this morning before I get to play, but I know the first thing I plan to do is pare the many hundreds of channels in the guide down the the 50 or so I might ever watch.

-Bruce
Brookline MA

Awesome Bruce. I'm looking forward to seeing another opinion on the difference between the original tivo and the comcast tivo.

If you are on a standard channel, the guide stretches. If you are on an HD channel, it is the regular 4:3 format.
If SD is 'stretching', then either the TV or box is set to stretch SD material. SD is natively 4:3.

Just a note that it would be nice if somebody could start filling in the Tivo section of the Motorola DVR Wikibook.:D (link in my .sig below)

When I was setup this morning, the tech only had one Tivo remote for me, so he left one of my silver remotes. Pressing the button that had done the 30 second skip under iguide now jumps to the end of the recording.

I then tried to set the 30 second skip on the Tivo remote, I press Select - Play - Select and then the when I press the 3 key, I get the Tivo negative sound.

If anyone has any other suggestions I'm all ears.

More to come,

-Bruce

The Comcast Tivo remote has 6 more buttons than the original Tivo remote, although it doesn't have the switch to allow a single remote to control two different DVR boxes.

On the Comcast remote, they also redefined the useless 'Window" key to an 'Exit ' key.

The new buttons include the On-Demand, A, B & C buttons from the Comcast silver remote, plus a D button and a Stop button.

http://img210.imageshack.us/my.php?image=tivoremotesto2.jpg

I tried putting this Comcast vs Original Tivo remote picture in as an image, but the image didn't show up, is there a secret to putting an image in a post.

http://img210.imageshack.us/my.php?image=tivoremotesto2.jpg


-Bruce

Why don't you guys start a new thread for this now?

Wow no 30 sec skip yet? That's a big bummer.

Now I'm not so sure if I want the Tivo software. Sure it looks pretty and has a nice guide, but we use 30 sec skip religiously.

This is one time I'm gonna say it.... I'll take the function over form this time.

I'll keep my eye on it, perhaps its still there, or will be there in an update.

Wow no 30 sec skip yet? That's a big bummer.

Now I'm not so sure if I want the Tivo software. Sure it looks pretty and has a nice guide, but we use 30 sec skip religiously.

This is one time I'm gonna say it.... I'll take the function over form this time.

I'll keep my eye on it, perhaps its still there, or will be there in an update.

I have been watching this thread in anticipation for about a year now. For some reason I just programmed the 30 second skip today for my regular DCT3416 IGUIDE.

I am now officially holding out for confirmation that Comcast/Tivo will support 30 second skip.

I don't know how I lived without it. It's the single greatest thing that my remote can do.

Are you people seriously saying that Comca$t iGuide DVR WITH 30 second skip is better than Tivo without 30 second skip?!? Puhhlease!!! 30 second skip is great and all, but Tivo trumps it 100 times. I would upgrade to Tivo in less than 1/100 of a second given the chance. Not having to re-delete re-recorded programs 8+ times would be worth it by itself... Gawd I hate the Comca$t DVR.

30 second skip is great and all, but Tivo trumps it 100 times. I would upgrade to Tivo in less than 1/100 of a second given the chance. Not having to re-delete re-recorded programs 8+ times would be worth it by itself... Gawd I hate the Comca$t DVR.

I re-delete rerecorded programs maybe 6 times a week (maximum). I use 30-second skip about 300 times a week (or more). There's no contest. I'll take 30-second skip.

I re-delete rerecorded programs maybe 6 times a week (maximum). I use 30-second skip about 300 times a week (or more). There's no contest. I'll take 30-second skip.

X2 :)

Good stuff here from our friend Steve...

http://www.flickr.com/photos/stevegarfield/sets/72157603515035363/detail/

Thanks Steve!

MarkJrenna

I live in your area as well (Essex County NJ) and am curious....do you have the comcast DVR running the Tivo software....if so, who did you call go get this installed? I have called a few times and no one ever knows what I am talking about. The regular Comcast DVR is AWFUL!!!

For people who are concerned about loosing the 30 second skip if they go to the Tivo software, I’ve been using DVR’s for 7 years now. I first had a Tivo and to skip commercials, you press fast forward, when you see your show is back, you press play, and the Tivo backs you up a little. Once you get used to this it become easy to use and in my opinion beats pressing the 30 second button 5 to 8 times.

However, I do use and did miss the 30 second skip yesterday when I was watching football as I time shift and use the 30 second skip to advance me between plays.

-Bruce

New user here...

Just got the Tivo for Comcast.. pretty sweet. However, I lost my Dolby surround when they converted the box. I don't really care about the Tivo sounds... can I get my surround back? I am using a Bose 123 system and it worked fine until they downloaded the Tivo software into the box.

Thanks!

New user here...

Just got the Tivo for Comcast.. pretty sweet. However, I lost my Dolby surround when they converted the box. I don't really care about the Tivo sounds... can I get my surround back? I am using a Bose 123 system and it worked fine until they downloaded the Tivo software into the box.

Thanks!


I'm not sure what is up with my audio, under Auto Settings I have Dolby Digital set to Yes, but my receiver shows that I am getting a Dolby Pro Logic II signal.

I am using a Bose 123 system
Thanks!

Theres your problem right there ;)

I'm not sure what is up with my audio, under Auto Settings I have Dolby Digital set to Yes, but my receiver shows that I am getting a Dolby Pro Logic II signal.

New user here...

Just got the Tivo for Comcast.. pretty sweet. However, I lost my Dolby surround when they converted the box. I don't really care about the Tivo sounds... can I get my surround back? I am using a Bose 123 system and it worked fine until they downloaded the Tivo software into the box.

Thanks!

Quick question. Are you sure the channel you're watching is broadcasting a DD 5.1 signal? I ask since my receiver defaults to "THX Surr. EX" when the station is broadcasting DD 5.1 and all 6 speaker indicators + the sub light up, but when the station is broadcasting stereo, it reverts to "THX Cinema" and only 2 speaker indicators are lit. Just thougt I'd ask since depending on the time of day and the channel, there might not be a lot of 5.1 material to choose from. Try going to HDT (839) since most of their material is DD 5.1. I'm thinking you've already tried different channels, but I thought I'd throw it out there.

BTW: It's 321 (not that it makes a difference:p)

Quick question. Are you sure the channel you're watching is broadcasting a DD 5.1 signal? I ask since my receiver defaults to "THX Surr. EX" when the station is broadcasting DD 5.1 and all 6 speaker indicators + the sub light up, but when the station is broadcasting stereo, it reverts to "THX Cinema" and only 2 speaker indicators are lit. Just thougt I'd ask since depending on the time of day and the channel, there might not be a lot of 5.1 material to choose from. Try going to HDT (839) since most of their material is DD 5.1. I'm thinking you've already tried different channels, but I thought I'd throw it out there.

BTW: It's 321 (not that it makes a difference:p)

Before I switched to the Tivo software, depending on the show/channel, my receiver would end up Dolby Pro logic, Dolby Digital or some other possibilities depending on the source.

With the Tivo software I noticed I wasn't getting DD, so looking around in the settings I found I needed to enabled Dolby Digital. I did this and restarted the box, but I'm still getting everything in Dolby Pro Logic II .

....and I just tried 839 and it also is coming through as Dolby Pro Logic II.

-Bruce

I re-delete rerecorded programs maybe 6 times a week (maximum). I use 30-second skip about 300 times a week (or more). There's no contest. I'll take 30-second skip.

X3 :)

I re-delete rerecorded programs maybe 6 times a week (maximum). I use 30-second skip about 300 times a week (or more). There's no contest. I'll take 30-second skip.

X4 :)

I re-delete rerecorded programs maybe 6 times a week (maximum). I use 30-second skip about 300 times a week (or more). There's no contest. I'll take 30-second skip.

X5 :)

x6...maybe someone should start a poll.

x7

Not having 30 second skip is not a deal breaker for me. I'll try the TiVo software the day they tell me it is available.

Anyway, you can probably buy a Harmony or some comparable remote and program a macro that mimics a 30 Second Skip.

Problem solved. Sorta...

x8

I don't want to lose the skip either...

Perhaps someone should try all 256 remote codes in the Motorola set to see if any previously unused codes do anything in the Tivo software (silver remote: Setup-0-0-x-x-x, where x-x-x ranges from 000 to 255).

any new zip codes get released recently?

The skip isn't the end of the world to me, I do have it and use it now but I don't care about it as much as the interface.

any new zip codes get released recently?

The skip isn't the end of the world to me, I do have it and use it now but I don't care about it as much as the interface.

Friend of mine who works for Comcast has told me that there will be a huge release in New England during the first full week of January. Depending on how that goes will determine how Comcast rolls out Tivo for the rest of the country. But it is still a little buggy. I was 5 minutes into a VOD program and I got a screen asking me if I wanted to change the channel to record a Tivo suggested program. Nothing was recording at the time and I'm not sure if the box was going to record two programs at 9 pm but I found the pop up annoying. It has happened to me before just prior to recording a scheduled recording.

Ok I've been using my new Tivo software for a few days now. I've never used Tivo before and am coming from the Comcast DVR system.

First thing I did was go through all the settings and made sure I use DD and not DPL or any other non-digtial format. I'm using coax digital to my Denon Receiver. I'm using component video cables but have tested with HDMI and saw no difference.

Here are the things that I like about it.

- Guide is 7 channels now instead of 4 with the lame ad at the bottom
- Faster
- Less lag
-

Things that are the same or very little difference to me.
- Season Pass - really no big difference except the name to me.
-


Things I really don't like
- Tivo recording crap for me even though I told it NOT to. WTF is up with that!?!?! Tivo seems to think it knows what I like and everything that it has recommended is either a SD version of the show I already recorded or some garbage I'll never watch.
- That Tivo sound is crap, turned it off immediately
- 720h doesn't work with my TV, Mitsubishi 52725 - All I get is a black screen. So I have to set to 720p Fixed and use the aspect ratio for the SD channels to change to "FULL" for my wife instead of the box doing it automagically
- No % full on the DVR like the Comcast version.
-

I'm sure there is more but I am drawing a blank

pete

--
http://www.petelanglois.net

Tivo recording crap for me even though I told it NOT to. WTF is up with that!?!?!

The Tivo service on Tivo hardware has the option to record "similar" shows based on your recording preferences (and maybe the recording preferences of other people who record the same shows as you). You can disable it on Tivo hardware so I can only image you can do so on the TivoComcast unit.


720h doesn't work with my TV, Mitsubishi 52725 - All I get is a black screen. So I have to set to 720p Fixed and use the aspect ratio for the SD channels to change to "FULL" for my wife instead of the box doing it automagically.

My TivoHD with a Toshiba 35" CRT is able to switch back and forth between "fixed-ratio" HD and "adjustable-ratio" SD. I would normally use it this way, but the Tivo interface is in "fixed-ratio" HD so anytime I access the interface, my TV switches from "adjustable" to "fixed" and it can take 10-30 seconds for the TV to adjust. So I now have it forced to 1080i all the time and live with the black bars around SD content.

Ok I've been using my new Tivo software for a few days now. I've never used Tivo before and am coming from the Comcast DVR system.

First thing I did was go through all the settings and made sure I use DD and not DPL or any other non-digtial format. I'm using coax digital to my Denon Receiver. I'm using component video cables but have tested with HDMI and saw no difference.


I went to the Audio Settings menu and turned Dolby Digital on and everything is still Pro-Logic. I even reset the box just incase and still all I get is DPL. I also have a coax from the cable box to my receiver. With the iguide software, depending on the channel\show I would get Dolby Digital. So I’m not sure what it up.


- Season Pass - really no big difference except the name to me.


If you record series on channels that broadcast a new episode several times a week like HBO, SciFi & TNT, you will find that with the Tivo software it is smart enough not to re-record and episode you have already watched an deleted. This used to drive me crazy.


- Tivo recording crap for me even though I told it NOT to. WTF is up with that!?!?! Tivo seems to think it knows what I like and everything that it has recommended is either a SD version of the show I already recorded or some garbage I'll never watch.


You can turn off the automatic recording of suggestions if you want or just before you delete a show you don’t want, hit the Thumbs down button, eventually it will learn what you want. For now it is guessing based on what you are watching/recording.


- 720h doesn't work with my TV, Mitsubishi 52725 - All I get is a black screen. So I have to set to 720p Fixed and use the aspect ratio for the SD channels to change to "FULL" for my wife instead of the box doing it automagically


I have a pair of boxes (living room and bedroom) that they upgraded to the Tivo software at the same time. In my bedroom, I got a blank screen after it loaded the tivo software, the Comcast guy was stumped and while he was calling in for some help, I connected a composite video cable to the tv and got the picture, I then set the tivo to 1080i and was able to use the HDMI connection.


- No % full on the DVR like the Comcast version.


My Tivo Series 2 doesn’t tell me the % full either.

-Bruce

I went to the Audio Settings menu and turned Dolby Digital on and everything is still Pro-Logic. I even reset the box just incase and still all I get is DPL. I also have a coax from the cable box to my receiver. With the iguide software, depending on the channel\show I would get Dolby Digital. So I’m not sure what it up.

All DD programs show up in DD 5.1 on my receiver. Not sure what's the issue on your receiver.


If you record series on channels that broadcast a new episode several times a week like HBO, SciFi & TNT, you will find that with the Tivo software it is smart enough not to re-record and episode you have already watched an deleted. This used to drive me crazy.

Nope never really had this happen.



You can turn off the automatic recording of suggestions if you want or just before you delete a show you don’t want, hit the Thumbs down button, eventually it will learn what you want. For now it is guessing based on what you are watching/recording.

Ok I'll start using the thumbs down. I like the show but not in SD, so I'll see if that affects the HD version.


I have a pair of boxes (living room and bedroom) that they upgraded to the Tivo software at the same time. In my bedroom, I got a blank screen after it loaded the tivo software, the Comcast guy was stumped and while he was calling in for some help, I connected a composite video cable to the tv and got the picture, I then set the tivo to 1080i and was able to use the HDMI connection.

Yeah if you reset the box, unplug for 10 seconds and then plug back in, it will default back to 480i.

My Tivo Series 2 doesn’t tell me the % full either.

-Bruce


This is a pain. Now if I can get the Tivo to stop recording the garbage I should be good to go.

Thanks for the info.

Pete

This is a pain. Now if I can get the Tivo to stop recording the garbage I should be good to go.


The stuff Tivo records for you, is stored under the Tivo suggestions folder and is deleted to make space for what you actually want to record, so you shouldn't think of it as taking up space. If you want to have it stop recording suggestions, under Tivo Central-->Settings and Parental Controls-->Settings-->Suggestions you can turn it off.

I have a pair of boxes (living room and bedroom) that they upgraded to the Tivo software at the same time. In my bedroom, I got a blank screen after it loaded the tivo software, the Comcast guy was stumped and while he was calling in for some help, I connected a composite video cable to the tv and got the picture, I then set the tivo to 1080i and was able to use the HDMI connection.-Bruce
Does the Tivo let you change resolution from the interface, or still only from the configuration menu when you hit MENU with the box off? For the built-in version, the front-panel display will show the information, even if your TV cannot display it.
http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR/Setup

Does the Tivo let you change resolution from the interface, or still only from the configuration menu when you hit MENU with the box off? For the built-in version, the front-panel display will show the information, even if your TV cannot display it.
http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR/Setup

You can change the resolution from within the Tivo software. With the Motorola DCH-3416 boxes I have, the resolution is displayed on the front panel of the box. From what I remember that was not the case with the DCT boxes.

Can you just hit the up arrow button to change the resolution like you oculd with d* hd tivo? Or do you have to go into the menus to do it?

Can you just hit the up arrow button to change the resolution like you oculd with d* hd tivo? Or do you have to go into the menus to do it?

The only way I know how to do it is by going to the setup menu.

-Bruce

Does anyone who has the software yet know how to make the suggestions record HD channels? It will only record SD and I hate watching those on the HDTV.

so can someone please confirm if there is a 30 second skip or not, someone that actually has the tivo firmware installed.

Does anyone who has the software yet know how to make the suggestions record HD channels? It will only record SD and I hate watching those on the HDTV.

The suggestions Tivo is recording for me now seem to be HD when it has a choice. The two things I have done that might have influenced this are first for the 5 shows I currently created season passes I selected get HD when possible. The other thing I did was removed all the non-HD versions of stations I also get in HD from the guide.

so can someone please confirm if there is a 30 second skip or not, someone that actually has the tivo firmware installed.

The answer currently is no. To the best of my knowlege nobody has figured out how to get a 30 sec skip to work once the tivo software has been installed.

Got my appt scheduled for 1/2 for my Tivo Software! I'm running a DCT3416 on a 30 inch LCD! Sooo badly wish this could be done from the head-end without a tech coming out to visit!

I re-delete rerecorded programs maybe 6 times a week (maximum). I use 30-second skip about 300 times a week (or more). There's no contest. I'll take 30-second skip.

x10!

I just got HD and as a result had to get a DCH3416 to record the HD programs my ReplayTV cannot. After watching a football game without 30-second skip I was ready to toss the whole setup, but having heard a rumor that TIVO was to be added I searched this forum hoping to find that I could get this and (I assumed) 30-second skip to the box.

Instead I found that I can already add 30-second skip to my setup by entering a few codes into my remote control! Thanks - this really made my day.

Now, if there were only a way to get the "Commercial Advance" logic from ReplayTV onto the DCH, AND to add more storage space, AND to download shows through the ethernet link, I'd really be thrilled.

Does the TIVO interface offer any of these?

Got my appt scheduled for 1/2 for my Tivo Software! I'm running a DCT3416 on a 30 inch LCD! Sooo badly wish this could be done from the head-end without a tech coming out to visit!

What the Tech did was give me the tivo remote and booklet, called the office to give them a number from the back of my box and waited to see the box load the software. In my case it took a couple of tries before the box loaded the tivo software. I think once they work out the kinks they will do it remotely and mail or drop off the remote.

-Bruce

x10!

Now, if there were only a way to get the "Commercial Advance" logic from ReplayTV onto the DCH, AND to add more storage space, AND to download shows through the ethernet link, I'd really be thrilled.

Does the TIVO interface offer any of these?

Not at this time.

For years I had a ReplayTV 5040 and a Tivo Series 2. Between the two of them, I found the Tivo was better for doing the recording and the ReplayTV was better for viewing a recording.

Does anyone who has the software yet know how to make the suggestions record HD channels? It will only record SD and I hate watching those on the HDTV.
I don't have the new sw, but I believe you can specify to TiVo what channels you receive. I suspect you can deselect the non-HD channels and it will ignore them.

I have the service since the weekend. A few observations... and if y'all have fixes, please bring em' on.

1. Regarding the Dolby digital (which is where I started on this forum in the first place) after calls to Comcast and Bose, both are stumped. They started a case for it in Comcast, but I think it must be a bug.

2. There is a lot of slowness and delay particularly when changing channels. When selecting programs you get this very informative screen with information, etc. However, it stays up far too long and I can't find a setting to reduce the time as there was in my Series 2.

3. I am also getting green screens when tuning to SD stations... hitting the info button and then closing it with the exit button "fixes" the problem but it is a pain in the ass.

4. The recordings seem to be a bit haphazard. I set it to record a program and it started at the 11th minute. This also happened with a Tivo suggestion (a feature that I like a great deal BTW).

5. When watching last Sunday's football game (which we TiVo'ed in order to let the latecomers enjoy) the recording "hung up" for a few seconds every once in a while -- this is not cool during NFL games. I think it may be because it was recording as well, but its not acceptable.

All in all I would give it a 6 or 7 out of 10. However, when coming from the TiVo itself which was a 9+, its a step down. If the problems continue to be an annoyance I may dump it and go to a new TiVo box while they are still selling lifetime memberships like I have with my first one.

Any thoughts on fixes? I hate being a paying beta tester and this is how it feels.

1. Regarding the Dolby digital (which is where I started on this forum in the first place) after calls to Comcast and Bose, both are stumped. They started a case for it in Comcast, but I think it must be a bug.

Do you have any existing recordings that you know have DD 5.1 sound on them or shows that can be confirmed to have DD 5.1 sound? Just because it can support dd 5.1 sound doesn't mean every show and channel has that included.

2. There is a lot of slowness and delay particularly when changing channels. When selecting programs you get this very informative screen with information, etc. However, it stays up far too long and I can't find a setting to reduce the time as there was in my Series 2.

3. I am also getting green screens when tuning to SD stations... hitting the info button and then closing it with the exit button "fixes" the problem but it is a pain in the ass.

Sounds like this might be related to an hdmi handshake issue. Assuming you have this connected via hdmi does it do the same thing on component? These boxes are known for being pretty bad in dealing with hdmi.

4. The recordings seem to be a bit haphazard. I set it to record a program and it started at the 11th minute. This also happened with a Tivo suggestion (a feature that I like a great deal BTW).

Is the guide data for these shows showing up with correct start time? Does the time on the box seem to be correct?

5. When watching last Sunday's football game (which we TiVo'ed in order to let the latecomers enjoy) the recording "hung up" for a few seconds every once in a while -- this is not cool during NFL games. I think it may be because it was recording as well, but its not acceptable.

Not really sure this is tivo related or tivo fixable. I've seen the same type of thing in the same situation with the current IGuide software. I was trying to watch a game while it was still recording. The sound was really more annoying when it cut out than the video so I just ended up muting it. The announcer babble is annoying anyway so no big loss.

All in all I would give it a 6 or 7 out of 10. However, when coming from the TiVo itself which was a 9+, its a step down. If the problems continue to be an annoyance I may dump it and go to a new TiVo box while they are still selling lifetime memberships like I have with my first one.

Any thoughts on fixes? I hate being a paying beta tester and this is how it feels.

Some of these things may be fixable by tivo while others might be something that they can't do anything about. Underpowered hardware or Motorola issue may not be resolvable at all or at the very least they would have to be fixed by Motorola.

If they ever roll it out in my area I'll probably try it out. I'm still keeping my eyes on Tivo and other alternatives but none have seemed worth it to me yet.

Not really sure this is tivo related or tivo fixable. I've seen the same type of thing in the same situation with the current IGuide software. I was trying to watch a game while it was still recording. The sound was really more annoying when it cut out than the video so I just ended up muting it. The announcer babble is annoying anyway so no big loss.



I called Comcast about the game cutting out and was informed by a recording that is was WHGH TV broadcasts fault.

Ok I've been using my new Tivo software for a few days now. I've never used Tivo before and am coming from the Comcast DVR system.

First thing I did was go through all the settings and made sure I use DD and not DPL or any other non-digtial format. I'm using coax digital to my Denon Receiver. I'm using component video cables but have tested with HDMI and saw no difference.

Here are the things that I like about it.

- Guide is 7 channels now instead of 4 with the lame ad at the bottom
- Faster
- Less lag
-

Things that are the same or very little difference to me.
- Season Pass - really no big difference except the name to me.
-


Things I really don't like
- Tivo recording crap for me even though I told it NOT to. WTF is up with that!?!?! Tivo seems to think it knows what I like and everything that it has recommended is either a SD version of the show I already recorded or some garbage I'll never watch.
- That Tivo sound is crap, turned it off immediately
- 720h doesn't work with my TV, Mitsubishi 52725 - All I get is a black screen. So I have to set to 720p Fixed and use the aspect ratio for the SD channels to change to "FULL" for my wife instead of the box doing it automagically
- No % full on the DVR like the Comcast version.
-

I'm sure there is more but I am drawing a blank

pete

--
http://www.petelanglois.net
NEW VIDEO:
http://stevegarfield.blogs.com/videoblog/2007/12/comcast-tivo-hd.html

Checking out the new Comcast Tivo HD Program Guide.

Shows in HD are designated by ‘HD’. There’s also a button to filter out all shows so that only HD shows are displayed, you can also do it via an on screen menu. It took 53 seconds for the screen to refresh. Movies, Kids, Sports, and News come up right away, as does All, but HD takes a long time.

Comcast is aware of the problem and is talking to the hardware manufacturer.

1. Regarding the Dolby digital (which is where I started on this forum in the first place) after calls to Comcast and Bose, both are stumped. They started a case for it in Comcast, but I think it must be a bug.


I can’t get Dolby Digital either, I’ll give them a call so they are know it more than just one person.


2. There is a lot of slowness and delay particularly when changing channels. When selecting programs you get this very informative screen with information, etc. However, it stays up far too long and I can't find a setting to reduce the time as there was in my Series 2.


I agree, it stays way too long, the only thing I have figure out to do is hit the Exit button to get rid of it.


3. I am also getting green screens when tuning to SD stations... hitting the info button and then closing it with the exit button "fixes" the problem but it is a pain in the ass.



I have two boxes with the Tivo software, one in on a Sony RP LCD TV hasn’t had a problem, the other a Samsung LCD only had the problem when the tivo software was first on the box, by default the box was at 480i and with the HDMI connection to my TV they didn’t sync. I put a composite video cable on the TV, change the setting in the TIVO software to 1080i and haven’t had a problem since.


4. The recordings seem to be a bit haphazard. I set it to record a program and it started at the 11th minute. This also happened with a Tivo suggestion (a feature that I like a great deal BTW).


I haven’t seen this at all. Not being able to count on the DVR recording things at the right time would make it useless in my opinion. I would call Comcast.


However, when coming from the TiVo itself which was a 9+, its a step down. If the problems continue to be an annoyance I may dump it and go to a new TiVo box while they are still selling lifetime memberships like I have with my first one.



I agree, the only reason to use the Comcast box (Tivo or iguide) is to get On-Demand. I'll see how things go using the Comcast/Tivo for awhile, as I see it, my other options are, replace one of the two with a TivoHD or replace both with TivoHD’s and get a non-DVR box from Comcast for On-Demand.

-Bruce

I don't want to lose the skip either...

Perhaps someone should try all 256 remote codes in the Motorola set to see if any previously unused codes do anything in the Tivo software (silver remote: Setup-0-0-x-x-x, where x-x-x ranges from 000 to 255).

Sounds like a great way to spend an afternoon.

NEW VIDEO:
http://stevegarfield.blogs.com/videoblog/2007/12/comcast-tivo-hd.html

Checking out the new Comcast Tivo HD Program Guide.

Shows in HD are designated by ‘HD’. There’s also a button to filter out all shows so that only HD shows are displayed, you can also do it via an on screen menu. It took 53 seconds for the screen to refresh. Movies, Kids, Sports, and News come up right away, as does All, but HD takes a long time.

Comcast is aware of the problem and is talking to the hardware manufacturer.

I cannot see how this is a hardware (Motorola) issue. Its a Tivo issue because the entire guide changed from time by time blocks with channels running down the column to the time being the sorted column to the left. It can take some time for it to change. In trying it, it did take awhile for it to change to the sorted format but once in the different guide, it changed with some lagging.
The guide itself is supplied by Tivo. I noticed for the Celtics home games, the Mojo listing does not change but on my HD box, Mojo is updated with Celtics pregame/game/postgame.

I can’t get Dolby Digital either, I’ll give them a call so they are know it more than just one person.
-Bruce

I have a Sony surround sound receiver and optical running from the cable box to the receiver. Using MHD as my test channel, I am getting 5.1 surround sound from the cable box. There is a setting that needs to be changed but I have a feeling you would have found that by now. Maybe its a Bose issue. What the Bose working with the cable box before the Tivo software was loaded?

I have two boxes with the Tivo software, one in on a Sony RP LCD TV hasn’t had a problem, the other a Samsung LCD only had the problem when the tivo software was first on the box, by default the box was at 480i and with the HDMI connection to my TV they didn’t sync. I put a composite video cable on the TV, change the setting in the TIVO software to 1080i and haven’t had a problem since.
-Bruce

Green screen is currently a Motorola firmware issue that Comcast is aware of and is trying to fix. However, calling and reporting the problem can be very helpful in trying to resolve the problem. Reseting the box (not power-cycle but calling to have the box reset) may fix the problem. It appears to be an HDCP problem.

I have a Sony surround sound receiver and optical running from the cable box to the receiver. Using MHD as my test channel, I am getting 5.1 surround sound from the cable box. There is a setting that needs to be changed but I have a feeling you would have found that by now. Maybe its a Bose issue. What the Bose working with the cable box before the Tivo software was loaded?

The other guy has a Bose setup, I have a Rotel Reciver. I'm getting Dolby Prologic, what I'm not getting is Dolby Digital, even though I turned it on through the Tivo software. My connection is a Coax between the DVR and the Receiver. When I was running iGuide depending on the channel/show, I would get Dolby Digital.

-Bruce

The other guy has a Bose setup, I have a Rotel Reciver. I'm getting Dolby Prologic, what I'm not getting is Dolby Digital, even though I turned it on through the Tivo software. My connection is a Coax between the DVR and the Receiver. When I was running iGuide depending on the channel/show, I would get Dolby Digital.

-Bruce

Do you have an optical connection that you can run from the cable box to your receiver? IMO optical is better then SPDIF anyways.

Bruce,
During my days of using a Moto/Comcast DCT-641x with i-guide, I had a lot of problems with coax connections. I'm not sure if it's a hardware issue on the part of motorola, a firmware issue or what, but coax audio out had issues in 3 of the 5 boxes I used over almost two years. These issues ranged from no audio via coax to no dolby digital. In each case, DD audio worked fine via optical. Unfortunately, each of the boxes had other issues that weren't as easily resolvable. I would recommend trying optical to see if it works for you.

The other guy has a Bose setup, I have a Rotel Reciver. I'm getting Dolby Prologic, what I'm not getting is Dolby Digital, even though I turned it on through the Tivo software. My connection is a Coax between the DVR and the Receiver. When I was running iGuide depending on the channel/show, I would get Dolby Digital.

-Bruce

I am running the digital coax and had no problems with it getting Dolby before the Tivo download...

I am running the digital coax and had no problems with it getting Dolby before the Tivo download...

Yep, so we are in the same boat. For the hell of it, I'm going to bring an optical cable home from work and see if it makes any difference, I doubt it, but it's something to try. Unfortunately I'm going away for a few days, so I won't be able to try it until after the weekend.

-Bruce

I'm running optical and hdmi out of the box but I am not getting the tivo sound effects. Since you guys are running digital coax, any issues with the tivo sound effects?

The guide itself is supplied by Tivo.The software, of course, is, but the guide data comes from Gemstar, while the guide data for stand-alone TiVos come from Tribune. In neither case does TiVo provide guide data.

As the guy who setup alanronkins system, allow me to chime in on what's going on there. He's got the DCH3416 connected to a Sony Bravia (not sure what one) via HDMI with the audio routed to the Bose 321 by digital coax. Prior to the Tivo download this was outputting Dolby Digital, now it is Dolby Prologic (the Bose says PCM). The Tivo software is set for surround and changing the audio settings in Tivo make no difference.

I tried to get into the DCH setup menu to see if I could fix the problem from there, but it wouldn't let me in . . .

The software, of course, is, but the guide data comes from Gemstar, while the guide data for stand-alone TiVos come from Tribune. In neither case does TiVo provide guide data.

From what my understanding is, the cable boxes had their modems inside of them turned on so that Tivo/Tribune guide can be used instead of the Gemstar guide. But if it is Gemstar, explain why one box (HD only) showed the Celtics on Mojo but the regular programing on the Tivo.

That seems to be the problem people. It is not actualy outputting ProLogic, but it is PCM. See if you can find som sort of bitstream setting, not PCM.

I'm running optical and hdmi out of the box but I am not getting the tivo sound effects. Since you guys are running digital coax, any issues with the tivo sound effects?


The Tivo sounds work for me, although I turned them off.

Prior to the Tivo download this was outputting Dolby Digital, now it is Dolby Prologic (the Bose says PCM).

For me, Prior to Tivo, whenever I changed channels, my receiver would quickly determine they type of audio and usually end up on either "Dolby Digital" or "Dolby Pro Logic II". Now it's just stuck on "Dolby Pro Logic II".

From what my understanding is, the cable boxes had their modems inside of them turned on so that Tivo/Tribune guide can be used instead of the Gemstar guide.Indeed, that is NOT my understanding. Remember that Comcast and Gemstar have a very strong relationship.

But if it is Gemstar, explain why one box (HD only) showed the Celtics on Mojo but the regular programing on the Tivo.I can't, except perhaps it is just a matter of bad timing of update delivery.

So...if I'm understanding this correctly, the Comcast Tivo-DL still uses the Gemstar guide, and not the Tribune guide...this would mean that the problem with the DVR recording multiple episodes of "new" programs would still exist, and that the guide would still only generate a week's worth of info...yes?

No, I don't think so. The problem with recording multiple episodes was NOT data-related. It was software-related.

So...if I'm understanding this correctly, the Comcast Tivo-DL still uses the Gemstar guide, and not the Tribune guide...this would mean that the problem with the DVR recording multiple episodes of "new" programs would still exist, and that the guide would still only generate a week's worth of info...yes?

I'm disappointed with the guide.

The interface seems to support 14 days worth of data. On my two Comcast boxes with the Tivo software I am seeing 12 days worth of show names, but only 5 days worth of show detail. For days 5 through 12 the grid looks good, but there is no information for any of the shows. I also noticed that the information for each show is much more brief. there is often no actors names or even the year of the show/movie.

-Bruce

I'm running optical and hdmi out of the box but I am not getting the tivo sound effects. Since you guys are running digital coax, any issues with the tivo sound effects?

I heard them but found them annoying so I turned them off.

Pete

--
http://www.petelanglois.net

I am told that the Tivo sounds go away when one gets Dolby

Is there any way to make the guide skip a day like the old iGuide used to do? It annoys me I haven't found a way to do this yet. I like to see what's on for the whole week by only pressing the day advance at the 8pm time slot while viewing the HD channels.

Pete

--
http://www.petelanglois.net

I am told that the Tivo sounds go away when one gets Dolby

Of course I was told that by a cat. :)

I'm disappointed with the guide.

The interface seems to support 14 days worth of data. On my two Comcast boxes with the Tivo software I am seeing 12 days worth of show names, but only 5 days worth of show detail. For days 5 through 12 the grid looks good, but there is no information for any of the shows. I also noticed that the information for each show is much more brief. there is often no actors names or even the year of the show/movie.

-Bruce

That is the complaint I have with the Comcast box WITHOUT TiVO. If the addition of the TiVO download provides no change, to me, it is useless. I'm really tired of getting only 5 days worth of COMPLETE listings and the rest filled with TO BE ANNOUNCED. That alone would make me go with the TiVO HD. On Demand is not an issue for me. And with the promised "Switched Video" thing, that would clinch it for me.

That alone would make me go with the TiVO HD. On Demand is not an issue for me. And with the promised "Switched Video" thing, that would clinch it for me.

What is "switched video"?

Is there any way to make the guide skip a day like the old iGuide used to do? It annoys me I haven't found a way to do this yet. I like to see what's on for the whole week by only pressing the day advance at the 8pm time slot while viewing the HD channels.

Pete

--
http://www.petelanglois.net

I haven't found it yet all I have found is if you use right on the 4 direction arrow, you move show by show, if you use the >> (fast forward) you move 2 hours. While on the guide you can press the enter key (bottom right) and it will let you select a day and time for the guide, which is useful, but I still want the skip 24hr feature I had with iGuide.

What is "switched video"?

I'm sure I don't have that name exactly right (or probably even close...), but it's the thing where the cable companies, in order to save bandwidth on their HD channels, only switch them on when someone wants them. Currently, the TiVO boxes cannot handle that, but there was a news release by TiVO a month or so ago saying there would be something or other available first quarter '08 that you could hook up to the TiVO so it could be able to do the switching thing (I'm sure there will be someone with the exact terminology that will respond to this).

I'm sure I don't have that name exactly right (or probably even close...), but it's the thing where the cable companies, in order to save bandwidth on their HD channels, only switch them on when someone wants them. Currently, the TiVO boxes cannot handle that, but there was a news release by TiVO a month or so ago saying there would be something or other available first quarter '08 that you could hook up to the TiVO so it could be able to do the switching thing (I'm sure there will be someone with the exact terminology that will respond to this).
It is SDV, Switched Digital Video:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Switched_digital_video

It's sort of cable's equivalent of IPTV.

Is there any way to make the guide skip a day like the old iGuide used to do?

There was on the directv hd tivo's

I belive you had to pull up the guide and then hit info.

No, I don't think so. The problem with recording multiple episodes was NOT data-related. It was software-related.

I understood that it was because the guide didn't accurately indicate if shows were new or repeats. :confused:

I'm pretty sure that was not it, John. Rather, TiVo has patented the software feature of keeping track of episodes recorded over the last 30 days, and not re-recording an episode if it is on that list. Therefore, iGuide could not provide such a software feature.

I'm disappointed with the guide.

The interface seems to support 14 days worth of data. On my two Comcast boxes with the Tivo software I am seeing 12 days worth of show names, but only 5 days worth of show detail. For days 5 through 12 the grid looks good, but there is no information for any of the shows. I also noticed that the information for each show is much more brief. there is often no actors names or even the year of the show/movie.

-Bruce

I sure hope that is improved before a massive rollout.

The Motorola DVR only has a wimpy 16 MB of flash memory though, so perhaps it's 'out of space' when it comes to downloading all of that guide data. Why don't they partition off some of that hard drive for an improved guide/os experience? Or use the DOCSIS modem to communicate more intensive descriptions from the server in real time. Even if they provision the box at a lower 3 mbps instead of the standard 6 or 8 mbps HSI speeds, it should be quick enough to pull some text data!

It was my understanding that the with the TiVo software, the guide data was to be stored on the hard drive... guess not!

It was my understanding that the with the TiVo software, the guide data was to be stored on the hard drive... guess not!
Most DVRs tend not to. I'm not sure why. It would be nice not to lose it if the power goes out longer than the UPS can cover. It can't possibly be that large if it resides in memory.

Dolby digital = no TiVo sounds ? So it sounds like an issue with the coax output not doing dolby at all.

DOCSIS modem is active in the Moto boxes to allow faster download of the guide. If you power-cycle the box, then there is about a 15 minute wait before the box becomes "active" again with full guide listings.

Dolby digital = no TiVo sounds ? So it sounds like an issue with the coax output not doing dolby at all.

DOCSIS modem is active in the Moto boxes to allow faster download of the guide. If you power-cycle the box, then there is about a 15 minute wait before the box becomes "active" again with full guide listings.

15 minute wait, wow. It's nearly that long for my regular I-Guide to download. Wonder what speed they provisioned the DOCSIS modem at. Maybe the economy 768k/384k tier?

I had the TiVo software installed on two DCH-3416s yesterday. So far (being at work) I haven't had much time to test them but here's some initial bugs.

Already noted by others... I can't get Dolby 5.1 sound output through the Optical output. No matter how I set the Audio settings, the sound is Pro-Logic. If I restart the box using the command from the settings menu, as soon as the unit turns back on I have DD5.1 for about 10 seconds, then as the boot up messages start displaying on the front panel the sound cuts out and when it's back on, it is only Pro-Logic again.

Season Passes... I've been able to set season passes on about 6 shows so far. On another 4, it won't work. I press the Options button on the Season Pass line and the checkmark goes on for a second, then dissapears and the Options screen never appears. This happened when trying to set a pass after doing Find shows for Boston Legal on 805, Las Vegas on 807 and a couple others. Also after finding these shows that won't allow a season pass, if I click on Show Other episodes, I get a list of totally unrelated shows. On shows that created the season pass, clicking on show other episodes works as expected. The same thing happens on both my boxes and I tried restarting both. Is anyone else seeing this?

BTW, to confirm, neither the TiVo or Comcast 30 second skips work, but this doesn't surprise me as I seem to remember from using TiVo years ago that it was either the Skip to Tick Mark, or 30 Second Skip that could be enabled - not both. Correct me if that's changed.

I also can't find an easy way to jump ahead 24 hours in the guide. I'd really like to have that back.

Guide doesn't show if a show is a rerun or new. I really want that back. I know that Season Passes will only record new shows if that was my preference, but I want to see that information in the guide. If I'm browsing through listings I may not necessarily remember the description of a previously played episode.

That's it for now but later tonight I should get more of a chance to test things out.

15 minute wait, wow. It's nearly that long for my regular I-Guide to download. Wonder what speed they provisioned the DOCSIS modem at. Maybe the economy 768k/384k tier?

I'm not positive but I think in that time it pretty much downloads the software again (or at least a good part of it), not just the guide. It's for designs like this that I'm glad I have my A/V components plugged into a UPS.

One more small bug I forgot about... TiVo sounds ding correctly until I tried moving down past the last item on the screen. At that time the TiVo error sound sounded as it should, but from then on, along with every TiVo ding, the error sound played right behind it. Only restarting put the sounds back correctly.

Easy fix for me - turned off the sounds.

If it matters, I'm using optical output with one box going to a Denon AVR-3801 and the other to some Panasonic A/V receiver (don't remember the model).

Called Comcast today to upgrade my cable TV package. Just for the heck of it, I asked the rep about the TiVo rollout coming to my area (Indianapolis). I fully expected her to not know what I was even talking about, but much to my surprise, she quickly spouted "late summer" without even hesitating. It's still a ways away for me, but it's sooner than I was expecting. Maybe by then, they will have worked out some of these minor issues and bugs that some of you are reporting.

For those with the sound issue. Is it outputting as PCM and your AVR is formating to PL, or is it a DD bitstream that is actualy 2.0 PL?

I just checked my optical output to my AVR and it's PCM Digital

I'm also tweaked by when I hit "Guide" and it shows information for the wrong station not the station I'm on. These issues need to be fixed asap. I'm not going to pay for this service if it's not working.

15 minute wait, wow. It's nearly that long for my regular I-Guide to download. Wonder what speed they provisioned the DOCSIS modem at. Maybe the economy 768k/384k tier?

The IPG for Motorola starts to show program information after 15 to 20 minutes after a powercycle and then takes another 24 hours to fully populate.

re: Green Screen

I got a green screen yesterday, which is the equivalent of the MS "blue screen of death". Much to my surprise I got a terrific Comcast rep, who walked me through the resurrection process... it took an hour, but he was great.

In some areas, with the regular Motorola DVRs, it could take several days to fully populate the guide, i.e., a full two weeks worth of data. The updates are controlled at the head-end level.

The Motorola DVR only has a wimpy 16 MB of flash memory though, so perhaps it's 'out of space' when it comes to downloading all of that guide data. Why don't they partition off some of that hard drive for an improved guide/os experience? Or use the DOCSIS modem to communicate more intensive descriptions from the server in real time. Even if they provision the box at a lower 3 mbps instead of the standard 6 or 8 mbps HSI speeds, it should be quick enough to pull some text data!
The Flash memory is used to store the firmware and software. There is 128M of regular RAM. Of that, it seems as if only about 5M is used to hold the guide data (MENU/MENU/SETUP/CABLE BOX SETUP/CONFIGURATION, then press the FAV key. The DB Status Report page gives the memory used). The rest is for program use, video buffering, MPEG decoding tables, etc...

The Flash memory is used to store the firmware and software. There is 128M of regular RAM. Of that, it seems as if only about 5M is used to hold the guide data (MENU/MENU/SETUP/CABLE BOX SETUP/CONFIGURATION, then press the FAV key. The DB Status Report page gives the memory used). The rest is for program use, video buffering, MPEG decoding tables, etc...

Oh I didn't realize that was the memory in bytes.

I have
Mem: S 1061912/5089280, L 74788/153600, Total 5242880

And when you get to the TSID Report page, it correctly displays all of the frequencies that VOD programming comes on. I double checked the frequency assignments with my QAM tuner, and confirmed that what this page is showing is correct.
VCN/Freq 579000 Freq TSID/Error: 1256 TSID
VCN/Freq 585000 Freq TSID/Error: 1257 TSID
VCN/Freq 591000 Freq TSID/Error: 1258 TSID
VCN/Freq 597000 Freq TSID/Error: 1259 TSID
TBF Frequency: 591000
TBF Modulation Mode: QAM 256

I'm also tweaked by when I hit "Guide" and it shows information for the wrong station not the station I'm on. These issues need to be fixed asap. I'm not going to pay for this service if it's not working.

I can confirm that for the first minute after you change the channel, if you press the Guide or Info buttons, the box thinks you're still on the previous channel.

Some of these bugs are so obvious, it makes you wonder what the beta testers were doing.

Some of these bugs are so obvious, it makes you wonder what the beta testers were doing.

I'm sure they were testing. There are many instances that bugs are simply not fixed, particularly if it's deemed low priority for initial release. Don't blame testers. There's a lot more to it than that;)

That's a really good point. Rule-of-thumb: Everything LOOKS easier from the outside.

Yeah I guess we all have to keep in mind that this is the very first version of Comcast Tivo. I'm sure there will be enhancements.

Look how pretty the Verizon Fios IMG guide is. But then I dare you to read all the problems people are having with it. They are starting to roll out a maintenance release a few months after the initial version to address things.

Comcast/Tivo will likely be the same way. Look pretty, but riddled with bugs. Once a few maintenance releases go by it should get better (at least one would hope).

I finally got the Comcast Tivo upgrade. It only took 3 different tech visits, 4 different cable boxes, and a 9 hour Tivo download. I can't say I had a great experience with Comcast while trying to get the Tivo upgrade.

Installation:
The first told me I had an older box so I was going to have to have someone come out and upgrade the box which they were going to charge me $39.99 for the upgrade of the box and the tech to come out but have the 3rd tech visit they said they would not charge for the visit.

The first thing the first tech said to me was “do you know how to use Tivo because I don’t.” He explained that they only got a 5 minute briefing on how to set the box up. I later found out that when he called the office to turn on the box and turn on Tivo, they did it the wrong way and the old DVR box that was still on my account took the Tivo upgrade instead of the new box. (Still waiting for Comcast to fix my old DVR box or give me a new one that doesn’t download the Tivo upgrade.)

I called Comcast a few hours after the first tech left my house because both boxes were not working. They sent out an on call tech that same night. He was at my house from 8:00pm to 11:30pm trying to get both boxes working. He got the Tivo box downloading the upgrade but he said the Docsis modem is not working so the download is going over RF and will take about 9 hour and that I had to leave it on the setup screen so I would know when to reboot the cable box when it was done. He also swapped out the old DVR box for a new one and said it would fix the problem. 10 minutes after the tech left, old DVR box started downloading the Tivo upgrade after the tech said it was a new box and would start the download. This left me without a guide, menu, info, or on demand. I called Comcast and they setup another service call but it would be in 2 days on a work day so I had to take another day off from work to wait for Comcast.

The third tech came to my house and replaced the box. He said he checked everything and the people he spoke to on the phone checked everything and they all assumed me this box would not take the Tivo download and I would be all set. I asked him to wait 10 minutes just to make sure. He said no that he had to leave. 5 minutes after he left, it started the Tivo upgrade. Now the box does not work and just says 0 on the display with no picture or sound. I have another appointment for tomorrow (5 days after the last appointment).

Also, none of the techs that came to my house gave me the new Tivo remote. They all said they would put in a request for one meaning that they didn’t have them. All the techs also said the same thing about only having a 5 minute briefing on the Tivo installs. They also said I was the unlucky one because they have 2 main techs that deal with Tivo and the were both on xmas vacation. (Why they scheduled a Tivo install with both the Tivo techs on vacation is beyond me.)

Comcast Tivo:
I have noticed a few bugs/concerns with the software while using the Comcast Tivo software over the past week.

1. No support for Dolby Digital like the old software had (even though they have a menu option for this under Audio in the setup section). I have noticed if I restart/power cycle the unit while on a HD channel, I will have Dolby Digital until the Welcome screen comes up and they it goes back to Dolby Prologic

2. I few times I got the green screen. I have noticed if I wait a minute and hit guide the normal screen comes back up.

3. If I change the channel and hit guide, it still has the old channel I was on selected.

4. Seems like after using the unit for a few hours, the season pass menu does not work. I will try and start a season pass on a new show and the menu will not come up if I hit options. It just puts a checkmark in the corner and then acts like it added the season pass. (I have noticed the guide will say the name of the show but say “No information” for the description of the show when the season pass stops working.)

5. Very sluggish when hitting Guide or paging in the Guide.

6. No day skip in the guide. Hard to skip a few days ahead to record a show.

7. No 30 second skip like the old software had

8. No slow motion like the old DVR software had

9. Only one setting for “Dolby compression” which is on or off. The old software had 3 different levels which was nice.

I finally got the Comcast Tivo upgrade. It only took 3 different tech visits, 4 different cable boxes, and a 9 hour Tivo download. I can't say I had a great experience with Comcast while trying to get the Tivo upgrade.

Out of curiosity what town are you in?

Also, none of the techs that came to my house gave me the new Tivo remote. They all said they would put in a request for one meaning that they didn’t have them.

As you should've been told on the phone when setting up call & if you read some other posts on here the policy is that they are supposed to mail you the remote. On occasion tech may have one to give customer but don't count on it. The silver DVR remote does everything except for 3 functions of the Tivo remote & if you already had the 30 sec. skip programmed you're down to 2 things. Yes for those wondering, the 30 skip code is the same as the 'skip to tick' code.

8. No slow motion like the old DVR software had.

This is one of the other functions of the Tivo remote. But if you want to program it in the EFC code is 028.
The last function is the 'Delete' button, EFC for that is 034. Pretty much the only other button missing from the silver remote is the letter 'D', which the EFC is already listed a few places. Everything else is there, albeit maybe a slightly different name.

Comcast Tivo:
I have noticed a few bugs/concerns with the software while using the Comcast Tivo software over the past week.

1. No support for Dolby Digital like the old software had (even though they have a menu option for this under Audio in the setup section). I have noticed if I restart/power cycle the unit while on a HD channel, I will have Dolby Digital until the Welcome screen comes up and they it goes back to Dolby Prologic
As noted on other pages of the forum, optical (which I have) works for dolby digital while coax digital does not work.

2. I few times I got the green screen. I have noticed if I wait a minute and hit guide the normal screen comes back up.
This is a problem with the HDMI connection and the Moto boxes, not the Tivo software, once again, as talked about above

4. Seems like after using the unit for a few hours, the season pass menu does not work. I will try and start a season pass on a new show and the menu will not come up if I hit options. It just puts a checkmark in the corner and then acts like it added the season pass. (I have noticed the guide will say the name of the show but say “No information” for the description of the show when the season pass stops working.)
I have no problems with Season Pass. I've set it up for 6 programs and all have recorded fine until the Writers' Strike. Once you get the checkmark, you should get "Please Wait" for 30 seconds.

5. Very sluggish when hitting Guide or paging in the Guide.
This is a known problem and in various posts prior

6. No day skip in the guide. Hard to skip a few days ahead to record a show.
Ditto

7. No 30 second skip like the old software had
Discussed above

Sorry to be a jerk but it seems like we are repeating the same problems/discussions every few pages. Please read previous posts (I know there is alot) and then bring any new information. Seriously, with what seemed to have happened on your install, I'd talk to jonwww.

(I)t seems like we are repeating the same problems/discussions every few pages. Please read previous posts (I know there is alot) and then bring any new information. Seriously, with what seemed to have happened on your install, I'd talk to jonwww.

Perhaps we should just start a new one like "Comcast TIVO - Initial Experiences" or something so folks can just discuss the actual install and initial experience.

Perhaps we should just start a new one like "Comcast TIVO - Initial Experiences" or something so folks can just discuss the actual install and initial experience.

I have been following this thread for a couple of months. There are some people here who are less tolerant of others.

It is a forum Roberts Rules of Order do not apply here I wish people could relax and let people post their opinions without getting crapped on.

Out of curiosity what town are you in?

I'm in Attleboro. Everyone I talked to on the phone said the Tech should have given it to me along with an instruction book. (and yes I was talking to the Tivo department and not just regular support.)

As you should've been told on the phone when setting up call & if you read some other posts on here the policy is that they are supposed to mail you the remote. On occasion tech may have one to give customer but don't count on it. The silver DVR remote does everything except for 3 functions of the Tivo remote & if you already had the 30 sec. skip programmed you're down to 2 things. Yes for those wondering, the 30 skip code is the same as the 'skip to tick' code.

I have a logitech remote that I had the skip function with the old DVR software and old box but it doesn't work with the new dch3416 box they gave me. I reprogrammed the remote and it still doesn't have all the functions. I tried using the regular remote that comcast gives out but I didn't have a hack to include a 30 sec skip. It's perfectly fine if they are going to mail me a remote but they should have told me that instead of everyone saying the installer would give me one. Also the installer said he was going to drop one off another day. All they had to say was they would mail me one and it would not have been an issue in the first place.

As noted on other pages of the forum, optical (which I have) works for dolby digital while coax digital does not work..

I have tried digital coax, hdmi, and optical and none of them are support dolby digital. When the tech guy was out to switch the box, I had him verify that it was not working with anyone of these cables with the Tivo software. When I had the same box with the old DVR software it worked fine. I think other people on here have stated the same thing. The tech support department told the onsite tech to make sure to hookup the moto box via optical and the tech confirmed it was hooked up via optical. This is another reason to remote bugs like this because more information comes out. Sometimes hooking up the moto box via optical works and sometimes it doesn't is now what support is saying in my area (or at least this is what I was told my a manager).

This is a problem with the HDMI connection and the Moto boxes, not the Tivo software, once again, as talked about above

It must only be some boxes because again, the same box with the old DVR software did not have this problem.

I have no problems with Season Pass. I've set it up for 6 programs and all have recorded fine until the Writers' Strike. Once you get the checkmark, you should get "Please Wait" for 30 seconds.

I also have a few setup but at certain times the Season Pass will not work for me. I think other people on here reported the same problem. It will not let me go into the options of creating a new Season Pass. It will just put a checkmark on the left side of the menu item but doesn't create the Season Pass.


Sorry to be a jerk but it seems like we are repeating the same problems/discussions every few pages. Please read previous posts (I know there is alot) and then bring any new information. Seriously, with what seemed to have happened on your install, I'd talk to jonwww

No problem. I'm not trying to bash comcast or anything, I was just reporting that I was also getting these problems. I know as a Software Developer that if one person says there is a bug, it doesn't always mean there really is a bug. When tons of people start saying there is a problem, usually more action is taken to correct the problem.

Perhaps we should just start a new one like "Comcast TIVO - Initial Experiences" or something so folks can just discuss the actual install and initial experience.


I agree. Everyone's experiences have been very different. It seems like when Comcast has someone doing the install that knows about the Tivo software/install the customer has a good experience. I had three people that said they had 5 minutes of training and the two main installers are on vacation.

I can only thank the early adopters of the Tivo software. The number of bugs that have been related in this forum have allowed me to decide not to get the software download until some, if not all, of these issues are worked out.

I especially want to keep the 30 second skip or something like it. It is a wonderful thing to be able to easily and quickly jump over the intro's to shows ("Previously on ????') and commercials.

Those of you willing to experience the bleeding edge of the Tivo upgrade are to be thanked.

Not my intent to clutter this topic but I agree with Bruce. Bless you folks. I'm in Central MA, and been waiting on the sidelines with my D* HR10-250 and limited HD selections. Ready to make the switch to Comcast once the Comcast Tivo DVR is available in my city.

I'm actually kind of glad it is taking longer to reach me. Good luck early adopters. :)

after a reboot, is all guide data still there or does it take time to come back like with I-Guide?

after a reboot, is all guide data still there or does it take time to come back like with I-Guide?

It's all there but the reboot takes longer so the guide can fill up. You get the pretty sunrise in the meantime.

So I had some time playing with the new box today. Now all digital connections do not pass DD 5.1, the are all outputing PCM 2.0 which totally blows. I've been on hold for 151 minutes to Tivo Support for Comcast to voice my concerns directly with Comcast. I have a feeling it will be another 150 minutes before I get to speak with a human.

I'm really not liking this upgrade now. This TIVO recommended crap is really p!ssing me off. I get up to go get a drink and the damn TIVO software changes the channel to something I have no intention of watching. I've turned off the TIVO suggested thing and given it 3 thumbs down and it STILL insists I might want to watch it. Seriously this is crazy.

So I had some time playing with the new box today. Now all digital connections do not pass DD 5.1, the are all outputing PCM 2.0 which totally blows. I've been on hold for 151 minutes to Tivo Support for Comcast to voice my concerns directly with Comcast. I have a feeling it will be another 150 minutes before I get to speak with a human.

I'm really not liking this upgrade now. This TIVO recommended crap is really p!ssing me off. I get up to go get a drink and the damn TIVO software changes the channel to something I have no intention of watching. I've turned off the TIVO suggested thing and given it 3 thumbs down and it STILL insists I might want to watch it. Seriously this is crazy.

Sounds like the Tivo I had with DirecTV 3 or 4 years ago was leaps and bounds ahead of this POS. I guess I'm going to seriously have to start considering a Tivo HD. Stupid Comca$t...

Sounds like the Tivo I had with DirecTV 3 or 4 years ago was leaps and bounds ahead of this POS. I guess I'm going to seriously have to start considering a Tivo HD. Stupid Comca$t...

It does not sound like it will be rolling in SE Michigan any time soon.

I had to hang up the other night after waiting for 4 hours on hold waiting for a Tivo Support person. Great service from comcraptic as usual.

I had to hang up the other night after waiting for 4 hours on hold waiting for a Tivo Support person. Great service from comcraptic as usual.

Were you being transfered or just calling in?

I had to hang up the other night after waiting for 4 hours on hold waiting for a Tivo Support person. Great service from comcraptic as usual.

I just called Comcast because I noticed the guide data runs out at 6pm tonight. I have show names, but no info. On the phone hell menu, under support, there is now a, press 2 for Tivo. I only had to wait about 30 seconds, then a woman answered the phone, understood what my problem was, said she checks and my boxes appeared to be communicating, but had no answer. She said she would have to escalate and being new years eve, she didn't think anyone would get back to me until Wednesday. She did say that she would credit my account until the problem was fixed. I also mentioned, again, that I can't get Dolby Digital and she added that to the escalation note. We will see what happens.

-Bruce

I just called Comcast because I noticed the guide data runs out at 6pm tonight. I have show names, but no info. On the phone hell menu, under support, there is now a, press 2 for Tivo. I only had to wait about 30 seconds, then a woman answered the phone, understood what my problem was, said she checks and my boxes appeared to be communicating, but had no answer. She said she would have to escalate and being new years eve, she didn't think anyone would get back to me until Wednesday. She did say that she would credit my account until the problem was fixed. I also mentioned, again, that I can't get Dolby Digital and she added that to the escalation note. We will see what happens.

-Bruce


Comcast DVR with TiVo: Video Tour
http://offonatangent.blogspot.com/2007/12/comcast-dvr-with-tivo-video-tour.html

In this video [ 5:16 ] I give you a quick tour of the Comcast DVR with TiVo. We take a look at TiVo recordings, the Guide, and Find Programs.

Response time could be improved.

Hey thanks Steve for that video!

It looks like they really could use a faster processor or something in the Motorola box. What Moto do you have, a DCT-3416 p1? I wonder if it would be faster on a DCH-3416? All that waiting adds up, and almost makes it look like it's a little annoying to use.

When you get a chance after the new year, could you do a brief video on the Settings and Parental Controls section? And perhaps the Video on Demand navigation?

Also I wanted to know, do you have the Comcast Central channels on 960, 961 and 962? I'm curious as to what the interface looks like (if it's bubbly Tivo style buttons instead of blue I-Guide style buttons), or maybe they eliminate those channels all together.

Have a great New Year!

Hey thanks Steve for that video!

It looks like they really could use a faster processor or something in the Motorola box. What Moto do you have, a DCT-3416 p1? I wonder if it would be faster on a DCH-3416? All that waiting adds up, and almost makes it look like it's a little annoying to use.

When you get a chance after the new year, could you do a brief video on the Settings and Parental Controls section? And perhaps the Video on Demand navigation?

Also I wanted to know, do you have the Comcast Central channels on 960, 961 and 962? I'm curious as to what the interface looks like (if it's bubbly Tivo style buttons instead of blue I-Guide style buttons), or maybe they eliminate those channels all together.

Have a great New Year!

Thanks!

DCT3412 I

Wow. I had been waiting for what seems like forever for this (since the initial announcement two years ago). After reading the experiences of the early adopters, I couldn't be happier that I bought a Tivo HD in the summer. It cured all of the instability and inconsistency woes that I had with the Comcast 641x boxes. It sounds like the Comcast Tivo isn't much (if at all) better than the DCT-641x/341x boxes with iguide. Thanks to all who have this for their detailed feedback.

I'm getting conflicting information from comcast reps. One told me that the $159.99 bundle package includes TIVO DVR once available in my town. Another one told me that it will 'cost a few dollars more'. Anyone know the truth? Just bought a new HDTV and debating on whether to buy tivo box or give this a try.

I'm getting conflicting information from comcast reps. One told me that the $159.99 bundle package includes TIVO DVR once available in my town. Another one told me that it will 'cost a few dollars more'. Anyone know the truth? Just bought a new HDTV and debating on whether to buy tivo box or give this a try.

I'm not aware of a $159.99 bundle, but to add the Tivo service to an existing account, the cost is $2.95 per month per household.

I just called Comcast because I noticed the guide data runs out at 6pm tonight.


I have the same problem and called Comcast. The rep I spoke to told me that it's a TiVo problem (their guide data) and it effects programs from 7pm to 2am. Of course, I have no guide data at all for any days. Maybe he meant it will all start reloading at 2AM tonight. In any case, there's a good chance that any programs set to record will not.

Also asked about the DD problem and although he was aware of the problem he had no estimate for a fix. I'm almost ready to go back to the Comcast DVR software.

I'm almost ready to go back to the Comcast DVR software.

I tried going back to the old Comcast DVR software. Comcast has replaced the box 6 times so far. Most of the techs they send out put the box in and leave until I make them try the menu and guide after they call in the box number to activate it. Then some of the techs tell me the box is downloading an update while others try to stay and fix it and call their support but they all have add to leave because of other jobs. Right now I am forced to have the Comcast Tivo box or else I didn't have any DVR functions with the old box.

I had to hang up the other night after waiting for 4 hours on hold waiting for a Tivo Support person. Great service from comcraptic as usual.

I called last weekend and spent about 2 hours on hold to the Tivo department. I called back on my cell phone and this time called into the regular cable support department and this time I got someone with 2 minutes. I told they I have a Tivo problem and if they could transfer me to the Tivo department. They got me on the phone with a Tivo tech within 3 minutes. The whole time I was on the phone I was till on hold with my home phone trying to get someone in the Tivo department.

I tried going back to the old Comcast DVR software. Comcast has replaced the box 6 times so far.


Are you saying in the two days since your last post Comcast has replaced your box 6 times?

I have to say that from watching that video it's simply MUCH WORSE IMO than the I guide software. Which, btw is about to undertake a pretty big overhaul if I recall correctly.

I can honestly say that there's no way I would want to deal with that slowness. I do get the remote lag from time to time but for the most part my box is like a rocket compared to that crap.

The one thing I hate about comcast I guide is the recording of previously recorded (and watched) shows but that's pretty avoidable by checking the recording schedule a few times a week.

All of the above and the absence of a 30 sec skip button make me almost completely uninterested in Comcast Tivo.

I have to say that from watching that video it's simply MUCH WORSE IMO than the I guide software. Which, btw is about to undertake a pretty big overhaul if I recall correctly.

I can honestly say that there's no way I would want to deal with that slowness. I do get the remote lag from time to time but for the most part my box is like a rocket compared to that crap.

The one thing I hate about comcast I guide is the recording of previously recorded (and watched) shows but that's pretty avoidable by checking the recording schedule a few times a week.

All of the above and the absence of a 30 sec skip button make me almost completely uninterested in Comcast Tivo.

I have two comcast boxes running the Tivo software and they are both much faster than what you see in that video.

I have the same problem and called Comcast. The rep I spoke to told me that it's a TiVo problem (their guide data) and it effects programs from 7pm to 2am. Of course, I have no guide data at all for any days. Maybe he meant it will all start reloading at 2AM tonight. In any case, there's a good chance that any programs set to record will not.

As of this morning I the guide is fully repopulated out until 1/11. One weird thing is you can't tell from the description which shows are new and which are repeats. The Tivo software appears to know because by season passes appear to be correct, which I can only tell because it is picking shows with a date of 2008 and not the ones with a date of 2007 or prior.

-Bruce

I have two comcast boxes running the Tivo software and they are both much faster than what you see in that video.

Thanks for the info Bruce.

Could be because he has a 3412. I think they are known to be slow. I have a dct 3416.

I am still waiting it out to see the new I Guide and see if they get a 30 sec skip for the comcast Tivo.

Thanks for the info Bruce.

Could be because he has a 3412. I think they are known to be slow. I have a dct 3416.

I am still waiting it out to see the new I Guide and see if they get a 30 sec skip for the comcast Tivo.

I have the DCH-3416.

I used to the Tivo fast forward from my series 2 and prefer it to the 30 second skip for skipping commercials. I found the 30 sec nice for skipping dead time on football and baseball games, so I would like it, but it's not a deal breaker.

I had put off buying a Tivo HD for many months waiting for the Comcast Tivo service and now that I have used the Tivo service for a while, I think I'm going to keep one of my two boxes, return the other one for a non-DRV box and buy a Tivo HD. I'll use the Comcast Tivo box in my bedroom and the TivoHD + non-DVR cable box in my living room.

-Bruce

I just noticed on my Comca$t bill today that in addition to all the other price increases (every package is going up at least $5!), the DVR fee is going from $11.95 to $13.95. $14 a month for this POS!?! The Comca$t Tivo doesn't sound much better (maybe worse) and is another $3 on top of that. This is definitely the last straw for me. Tivo HD, here I come. I appreciate all the reports here, so I am able to make an informed decision without wasting too much more time or money.

Old news. This was discussed a month or two ago.

Good luck with the TiVo HD. I have one of both; you can't go wrong either way.

100 pages, almost 3000 posts and I believe there are only 3 people on here who have it, and are happy with it.

Well people do like to b-s about things quite a lot.

Are you saying in the two days since your last post Comcast has replaced your box 6 times?

I got it fully installed on Dec 22. I didn't post until I started having tons of problems. On Dec 22 I had two different comcast guys out. The first guy replaced the box twice. The second guy replaced the box again (he was an on call support tech). Then 2 days later on Monday they replaced the box again. The last guy that was here replaced it 3 times until he gave up. He actually said he needed to bring one of the broken boxes to another installed. I said to him the person is not going to have the guide or a menu and he didn't seem to care. He didn't work for Comcast, he works for a different company that comcast gives work to He didn't even speak English that well. Since then I have tried calling comcast but can't get anyone in either regular support or the Tivo department. I will try again tomorrow when they should be fully staffed.

I have two comcast boxes running the Tivo software and they are both much faster than what you see in that video.

You must be one of the lucky ones then. The few people around me that have one also complain about how slow they are. Which box do you have?

Well I called last night for the ongoing issues with Tivo recording whatever it wants and not what I want it to. I have a tech coming out today to try and diagnose the issues. They reset the box remotely and it didn't seem to matter. I have 5 new programs it recorded since last night I have no intention of watching. My only problem is all my data is going to get lost and I have a lot of programming recorded for multiple viewings.

Pete

--
http://www.petelanglois.net

I'm not aware of a $159.99 bundle, but to add the Tivo service to an existing account, the cost is $2.95 per month per household.

And is that per TiVo unit?

I'm getting conflicting information from comcast reps. One told me that the $159.99 bundle package includes TIVO DVR once available in my town. Another one told me that it will 'cost a few dollars more'. Anyone know the truth? Just bought a new HDTV and debating on whether to buy tivo box or give this a try.

Bundle does not include TiVo cost. It would be added on top of any charges for $2.95 for the entire home, not per DVR.

I have to say that from watching that video it's simply MUCH WORSE IMO than the I guide software. Which, btw is about to undertake a pretty big overhaul if I recall correctly.

I can honestly say that there's no way I would want to deal with that slowness. I do get the remote lag from time to time but for the most part my box is like a rocket compared to that crap.

The one thing I hate about comcast I guide is the recording of previously recorded (and watched) shows but that's pretty avoidable by checking the recording schedule a few times a week.

All of the above and the absence of a 30 sec skip button make me almost completely uninterested in Comcast Tivo.

100 pages, almost 3000 posts and I believe there are only 3 people on here who have it, and are happy with it.

I'm lukewarm on the whole thing. While I like the suggest programs sometimes, I do have problems. For example, I set up a manual recording. The box decided to prioritize the suggested recording over the manual recording while I was watching TV. This thing is really buggy still. We just have to accept that this is version 0.5. I do love the search feature however. It helps if I want to watch a specific movie and trying to find it either on a channel or VOD.

Well I called last night for the ongoing issues with Tivo recording whatever it wants and not what I want it to. I have a tech coming out today to try and diagnose the issues. They reset the box remotely and it didn't seem to matter. I have 5 new programs it recorded since last night I have no intention of watching. My only problem is all my data is going to get lost and I have a lot of programming recorded for multiple viewings.

Pete

--
http://www.petelanglois.net

I have thought about turning off the suggested programing but then what would be the purpose of paying $2.95 extra. I know that doing thumbs up and thumbs down helps shape what is recorded and what is not recorded. Its a real pain to start with but seems to work better as more thumbs up/down is down. This is, of course, the center piece for TiVo fans.

And is that per TiVo unit?

It appears to be a single charge that covers how many DVRs you have based on previous replies.

I'm lukewarm on the whole thing. While I like the suggest programs sometimes, I do have problems. For example, I set up a manual recording. The box decided to prioritize the suggested recording over the manual recording while I was watching TV. This thing is really buggy still. We just have to accept that this is version 0.5. I do love the search feature however. It helps if I want to watch a specific movie and trying to find it either on a channel or VOD.

This should not be. Suggestions should garner the LOWEST priority that a recording can have, if the ComcasTiVo follows the same guidelines as all other TiVo boxes. They should NOT interfere with manual recordings or Season Passes.


I have thought about turning off the suggested programing but then what would be the purpose of paying $2.95 extra. I know that doing thumbs up and thumbs down helps shape what is recorded and what is not recorded. Its a real pain to start with but seems to work better as more thumbs up/down is down. This is, of course, the center piece for TiVo fans.

Assigning ThumbsUp and ThumbsDown helps the TiVo's Suggestion feature try to figure out what it should record for you. Without the thumbs ratings, it can only use your manual recordings and Season Passes to try and figure things out, which could be very sparse. The thumbs ratings provide more information to the Suggestions feature for it to make yes/no determinations on what to record for you.

I seriously doubt if most TiVo users would consider Suggestions a "center piece" feature of the Tivo service. It's a personal preference. Some people like it, others don't. Personally, of all my friends and family that use TiVo's, there are exactly ZERO who have Suggestions turned on. I find it clutters my ToDo and NowPlaying lists too much, so I have it turned off as well.

I have thought about turning off the suggested programing but then what would be the purpose of paying $2.95 extra. I know that doing thumbs up and thumbs down helps shape what is recorded and what is not recorded. Its a real pain to start with but seems to work better as more thumbs up/down is down. This is, of course, the center piece for TiVo fans.

The whole point is the existing Comcast DVR is a POS. It's laggy to all heck and back. I get all sorts of issues with the existing iGuide and DVR service. I knew the Tivo service would replace the existing firmware and hopefully fix some of the issues I had with the box itself.

The Tivo upgrade has reduced the lag and ongoing issues with the box.

I like the look of the Tivo interface I am just finding it frustrating I don't have all the info I used to have on the Comcast DVR guide.

OnDemand stuff now doesn't have dates when the movies were made.
I don't know if a show is new or a repeat.

Box restarted itself last evening while I was in the ToDo list.

I complained about not having DD anymore as well. Tech is coming today to diagnose my box and/or replace this one.

We'll see how it goes.

Pete

--
http://www.petelanglois.net

I like the look of the Tivo interface I am just finding it frustrating I don't have all the info I used to have on the Comcast DVR guide.


I agree, I do seem to have the year for most show, but no actors names and the descriptions seem more brief. The weird thing is in the guide they don't tell you if a show as new, but the have the data because it appears when you ask for just new shows in a season pass it is picking the right shows.




I complained about not having DD anymore as well. Tech is coming today to diagnose my box and/or replace this one.



I'll be interested in how this goes. Since there are many of us with the DD problem, who had it working fine under iGuide, I find it hard to believe it's the box.

-Bruce

I agree, I do seem to have the year for most show, but no actors names and the descriptions seem more brief. The weird thing is in the guide they don't tell you if a show as new, but the have the data because it appears when you ask for just new shows in a season pass it is picking the right shows.

For those of us who had the Microsoft Enhanced guide, that guide also rarely if ever showed any information on a show. When we were switched to iGuide/SARA, we started getting plenty of show information.

So perhaps ComcastTivo is using a different service - perhaps the same one the MSE guide used - for their information. For those of us on the actual Tivo service, when we had four new HD channels added here in Washington, it took some three weeks before schedule information was loaded from Tivo (iGuide/SARA had it almost immediately), which was a pain because we had to set manual recordings.

I complained about not having DD anymore as well. Tech is coming today to diagnose my box and/or replace this one.

Is the Tech coming over to check out the DD problem? If he is, PLEASE let me know how that goes. I called comcast a few times on this and they all told me they would pass it along but they would not confirm it was a problem with the box or the software.

Is the Tech coming over to check out the DD problem? If he is, PLEASE let me know how that goes. I called comcast a few times on this and they all told me they would pass it along but they would not confirm it was a problem with the box or the software.

Well the techs just left. I am supposed to get a call from Tivo Support tonight around 6pm as well as a call from Engineering within 48 Hours. They know about the problem (duh) and I guess it's a wait and see type thing. I also have the Tech's cell number. Sorry I can't give it out so don't ask.

So, I know that the cheaper HD Tivo box uses cablecards and therefore no On Demand... but does the more expensive one accomodate OD? I am pretty much done with the Comcast TiVo. It's too expensive to be a beta tester.

So, I know that the cheaper HD Tivo box uses cablecards and therefore no On Demand... but does the more expensive one accomodate OD? I am pretty much done with the Comcast TiVo. It's too expensive to be a beta tester.

No the only way to get on-demand is with a box provided by Comcast.

So, I know that the cheaper HD Tivo box uses cablecards and therefore no On Demand... but does the more expensive one accomodate OD? I am pretty much done with the Comcast TiVo. It's too expensive to be a beta tester.The TiVo S3 does not do OnDemand either. I have a regular HD STB for that to supplement my S3. You should be able to get the digital box free if it is on your primary TV. See the 2nd to last answer in this FAQ at Comcast here (http://www.comcast.com/customers/faq/FaqDetails.ashx?ID=2540).

Well the techs just left. I am supposed to get a call from Tivo Support tonight around 6pm as well as a call from Engineering within 48 Hours. They know about the problem (duh) and I guess it's a wait and see type thing. I also have the Tech's cell number. Sorry I can't give it out so don't ask.

Thanks for the update. I had called Comcast Monday to complain about the guide data running out and no DD. Being New Years Eve, they said they would have someone call me today, which to my amazement they did. They were really just calling to confirm that I had update guide data, which I do. When I asked about the Dolby Digital, the guy asked what my setup was, I told him Cablebox to receiver via coax. I also told him it worked fine before I got the Tivo software. He then said the was the first he had heard of the problem and he would have to escalate it. I told him many people reported the same problem on the AVS forum since moving to the Tivo software. I'm pretty sure that comment went in one ear and out the other.

-Bruce

The TiVo S3 does not do OnDemand either. I have a regular HD STB for that to supplement my S3. You should be able to get the digital box free if it is on your primary TV. See the 2nd to last answer in this FAQ at Comcast here (http://www.comcast.com/customers/faq/FaqDetails.ashx?ID=2540).

After playing with the Comcast Tivo software for a couple of weeks, this is what I think I am going to ended up doing for my living room. In my bedroom, I think I'll keep the Comcast Tivo box.

Well the techs just left. I am supposed to get a call from Tivo Support tonight around 6pm as well as a call from Engineering within 48 Hours. They know about the problem (duh) and I guess it's a wait and see type thing. I also have the Tech's cell number. Sorry I can't give it out so don't ask.

I would say if no one gives you a call, send jonwww a message. He said he is a tech for Comcast and he may be able to get someone to call you asap.

Thanks for the update. I had called Comcast Monday to complain about the guide data running out and no DD. Being New Years Eve, they said they would have someone call me today, which to my amazement they did. They were really just calling to confirm that I had update guide data, which I do. When I asked about the Dolby Digital, the guy asked what my setup was, I told him Cablebox to receiver via coax. I also told him it worked fine before I got the Tivo software. He then said the was the first he had heard of the problem and he would have to escalate it. I told him many people reported the same problem on the AVS forum since moving to the Tivo software. I'm pretty sure that comment went in one ear and out the other.

-Bruce

No problemo.

The Tivo Support person I spoke with yesterday said the Engineering team knows about the forum on this website but it's not read daily. I told them they should as they can get all the info they need right from the forum and contact the users having the problems via PM. We'll see if I get the call tonight around 6PM from Tivo Support.

Pete
--
http:/www.petelanglois.net

This should not be. Suggestions should garner the LOWEST priority that a recording can have, if the ComcasTiVo follows the same guidelines as all other TiVo boxes. They should NOT interfere with manual recordings or Season Passes.

Maybe I'm not using it correctly but I've gotten some season pass shows (last one was CSI:NY) that got 30 seconds into the show and stopped. I have considered switching back to the Comcast DVR because I do not see the advantage of having TiVo if the suggestions is not working properly.

My DD does work but I'm using optical. If you have the wire, try that. If it works, then it is another odd software glitch.

I would say if no one gives you a call, send jonwww a message. He said he is a tech for Comcast and he may be able to get someone to call you asap.

Ok will do. I fully suspect I'll get a call from Engineering. This guy was in a very small team of people working on Tivo software issues the tech said.

The call tonight is from Tivo Support which is to check up on me and see if the tech resolved anything today.

Pete
--
http://www.petelanglois.net (http://www.petelanglois.net)

Maybe I'm not using it correctly but I've gotten some season pass shows (last one was CSI:NY) that got 30 seconds into the show and stopped.

It could just be a bug. When Seattle went to iGuide/SARA we had problems with our "Season Passes" not recording as scheduled (or at all), random recording of shows we hadn't scheduled to be recorded, deletion of our pre-existing shows we had flagged as save, and other bugaboos. It actually is what drove me to TivoHD in the first place, ironically...

My DD does work but I'm using optical. If you have the wire, try that. If it works, then it is another odd software glitch.

I'm using optical on two different DCH-3416 boxes running TiVo software. Neither will do DD. What type box do you have?

On the bright side, the glitch I had setting season passes on a few particular shows is fixed following the 8 hour guide outage on New Year's eve.

I'm using optical on two different DCH-3416 boxes running TiVo software. Neither will do DD. What type box do you have?

On the bright side, the glitch I had setting season passes on a few particular shows is fixed following the 8 hour guide outage on New Year's eve.

DCT 3412A. No problems with the Celtics game on CSN 881 last night.

Except that the Celtics game wasn't listed in my guide... it was another name completely.

Except that the Celtics game wasn't listed in my guide... it was another name completely.

I've been getting the same thing. It shows the program that is on Mojo and not the Celtics which Comcast interupts the Mojo feed to show. I say we are getting a different guide then the regular Comcast boxes. However, some one else a few pages back said its still the Comcast iGuide. It makes sense to me this is the actually TiVo guide because it would not be update with local changes.

Have you had a situation where programs are recording late? I have had situations where a recording started between 11-20 minutes late even though it looked fine in the guide.