The audio delay on WYSP 94.1 FM for the Eagles game is "close enough" to work tonight. Only about a second or so out of sync. WIP 610 AM was way off, probably in sync for being at the game.

I have no idea what WBCB 1490 AM Levittown was doing. They're supposed to be part of the Eagles network, but was playing music when I tuned in during the game.:rolleyes:

For the record, OTA broadcast was way out of sync, not usable. That tells you that the majority viewers are on cable.

FOX had some really neat shots of the lightning hitting the ground behind the Linc.:cool: Now for a 45 minute rain delay.

For the record, OTA broadcast was way out of sync, not useable. That tells you that the majority viewers are on cable.
What do you mean? The OTA TV broadcast was out of sync with 94 WYSP? So that means that 94 WYSP is syncing to the cable TV broadcast?

I'd try it myself, but I'm in the process of moving to the area and I haven't been able to set things up yet. When I move in to my new house I'll use both FIOS TV and OTA TV.

Yep. It was announced back in February 2008 (thanks to JimHef for the mention here). Here's the discussion in the Comcast forum: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13180372#post13180372. They mention syncing to digital, cable, or satellite. Not sure what "digital" means, but watching WTXF-DT was way off. Didn't check WTXF (NTSC - 29).

You'll enjoy the PQ on FiOS. They get the feed via fiber (so does ComCast), but there's almost no degradation and it looks better than OTA. I use OTA for backup.

Interesting in-house transmission problem noticed last night: I have a high def DVR in the family room, and a high def standard box in the kitchen. Both are within 20 feet of one another. There was a delay of about 1-2 seconds between the two that I haven't noticed before, probably because they aren't both on together, or are on two different channels. You wouldn't think that the DVR unit would get that delayed, but it must have something to do with recording the present show simultaneously with showing it. Any insight???

Interesting in-house transmission problem noticed last night: I have a high def DVR in the family room, and a high def standard box in the kitchen. Both are within 20 feet of one another. There was a delay of about 1-2 seconds between the two that I haven't noticed before, probably because they aren't both on together, or are on two different channels. You wouldn't think that the DVR unit would get that delayed, but it must have something to do with recording the present show simultaneously with showing it. Any insight???

That delay is due to a constant Time-Shift Buffering on all Motorola DVR's. Comcast Motorola DVR's do the same thing. That how the Motorola firmware is designed. There is nothing wrong.

P.S. Cisco/SA DVR's do not operate in that manner.

Thanks! I figured it may be something to do with that but wasn't sure.

Sorry if this has been covered, but I didn't see anything in this thread. Just had FIOS installed last week (Haddon Township, NJ) and wanted to try the multiroom DVR. The installer said that it actually doesn't work "yet". Any insight as to when this might happen? Is that capability specific to certain areas (perhaps my area is too new?)

Thanks,

-Dan

The installer said that it actually doesn't work "yet".

Not sure why he told you that but it certainly works. However, there are certain situations when you are limited in capability. If you record an HD program on the Multiroom DVR and want to watch it on another HD set in your house, you can only watch it in SD. I believe this issue is expected to be resolved in a future firmware update.

Hmm, it (multi-room DVR) certainly doesn't seem to work. I guess I'll have to call about that.

How 'bout this. Each day, I set my 4:3 Override in the service menu of my DVR to "off", and the next day it's set to 480p. The non-DVR box doesn't seem to have this issue. Any thoughts from the group?

Thanks,

Dan

You may simply have a bad DVR out of the box. I'd call them and ask that it be replaced, telling them the issues you are having. It should not do that, and should start up each time with the options you have selected. You have selected the proper screen format and the resolution you prefer?

As long as you don't reset the video resolution in the IMG. Remember there's an IMG (interactive media guide) bug that does exactly that (change in IMG resolution resets 4:3 override in the STB).

Follow up. Turned on NJN last night (the HD variety) to the HD program "Nature"... definately not HD, yet.

Thanks!

If it's like any other channel, expect to see that no sooner than the rollover to the new channel lineup in September. I'm just upset that I have to wait that long for the Big Ten Network to be active, and the Lions play at the end of this month, only available on BTN...Comcast has recently included that, although I'm not sure it is active at this point.

How 'bout this. Each day, I set my 4:3 Override in the service menu of my DVR to "off", and the next day it's set to 480p. The non-DVR box doesn't seem to have this issue. Any thoughts from the group?



Do you have the DVR connection via HDMI? Is it being run through a receiver and THEN to the TV? There is a known issue with folks running the STB through a Surround Sound receiver and then to the TV.

Anyone else get the "new channel lineup" letter today like I did?

Do you have the DVR connection via HDMI? Is it being run through a receiver and THEN to the TV? There is a known issue with folks running the STB through a Surround Sound receiver and then to the TV.

Yes, my setup is exactly as you described. Perhaps I could leave the receiver on full time as a workaround...

Thanks for your input.

-Dan

Anyone else get the "new channel lineup" letter today like I did?
Not through the weekend, but will look for it in the early part of the week. I'm looking for Channel 585 to be active next weekend! ;)

Yes, my setup is exactly as you described. Perhaps I could leave the receiver on full time as a workaround...

Or just run a coax/optical audio cable out from the DVR to your receiver. That way you can still get digital 5.1, without leaving your receiver on. You might even save a few $$$ in energy costs.

I spoke with FiOS customer service yesterday, and they told me that the new channel lineup would not be available until the stated Sept 11 date. So, although the lineup shows that it's effective August '08, we're going to have to wait for those additional channels unfortunately. Supposedly, the realignment of channels will take place at the beginning of Sept, either the 2nd or 3rd, but the added content won't happen until the following week.

Confirmed. The letter came today. Start date is 9/11/2008. The relevant details: You'll need to change all your favorite channels to the new numbers and verify that your DVR's scheduled recordings aren't hosed.

I spoke with FiOS customer service yesterday, and they told me that the new channel lineup would not be available until the stated Sept 11 date. So, although the lineup shows that it's effective August '08, we're going to have to wait for those additional channels unfortunately. Supposedly, the realignment of channels will take place at the beginning of Sept, either the 2nd or 3rd, but the added content won't happen until the following week.

Which channels are being added? I'm getting FiOS installed next week. From the channel lineup I can't tell which channels are already available and which are not yet available.

Well, for you, all the channels are new! :D For the rest of us, they are adding a few extra HBO and premium movie channels in HD, but important to me, the Big Ten Network in HD, as well as the standard def channel. Not sure how many are added at this point, but there's a few new PBS ones, some sports ones with the Big Ten and Versus/Golf, and some interesting "education" ones that could have interesting content...History, Smithsonian, Animal Planet and Science. For the ladies, there's the "Crying Channel", Lifetime, in two separate HD programs. I think it's now up to 54 channels...and the Weather Channel will now fill your screen!

Here's the new lineup: http://www22.verizon.com/NROneRetail/NR/rdonlyres/C6755331-52B9-464F-99E0-3DB64FD311C6/0/SEPA_CLU_091108.pdf

The title says "August 2008", but the filename in the URL is dated 091108.

Yes, have that printed out for the various sets around the house, and received the Verizon printed one yesterday in the mail. For anyone printing it, use legal size paper to ensure that you can keep it close to the original size, and be able to read the small print.

Just read on the Comcast thread that the Big Ten Network's game for noon on Saturday is the Ohio State game. BTN is covering the PSU game, but it won't be in high def. Not sure if that report is accurate, but it makes me feel better that I'm missing the Lions games until after the roll out of the new lineup. I think it means that I'm tuning to 99AM and listening to the game while getting some work done around the house!

The message on my std box still says 9/2. Is this different from the 9/11 date? I live in the eagle CO area.

Yes, channel realignment on Sept 2 and 3, but new channels not added until the 11th.

FWIW, the new channel number is now listed at the bottom of every program description in the IMG. However, it doesn't match what's in the printed version of the IMG: http://www.dslreports.com/forum/r20938618-Philly-Metro-VHO8-Update~start=60#end

:mad: Eagles! :mad: Against the lowly Jets adds insult to injury. WYSP 94.1 FM audio about 6 seconds delayed from the video. Borderline tolerable.

Wouldn't that just be the "7 second delay" that all radio stations have to prevent foul language from coming across?

Channel surfing up the high-def lineup last night, and came across an added channel...ESPNU in HD on 848. Don't know how long it's been there, but it's not even listed as being an HD channel for the new lineup.

Thought that the audio was supposed to be lined up for TV. In this case, the foul language was originating in front of the speakers. :D

Nice find. ESPNU (848) is showing the Blue Hens vs. Terrapins Saturday 4 PM (for the DE fans). There's no "moving to channel..." notice in the IMG. A few other channels are missing it too.

Update: the Verizon FiOS HDTV thread says that ESPNU-HD came online Thursday.

It seems that the Big Ten Network on Comcast has a main channel, and then a series of "overflow" channels for other games at the same time. The channel lineup for our new service only shows BTN on SD and on HD without any additional channels mentioned. Is there a way of finding out if FiOS will carry more than one game during each segment of the day?

Geekgirl, which thread mentions that...here on AVS or elsewhere?

Here on AVS forum. It's the old Verizon FiOS Master Programming thread which has been renamed to Verizon FiOS HDTV: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=14551754&postcount=7154

I just signed up for the triple play promo and the sales person told me that the wireless router does not work with Mac's??? She said I would have to hardwire the Mac to the router?!?!?!?!?!

This can't be true - right?

Does anyone have experience with using a MacbookPro (or any Mac) wirelessly over FIOS?

thanks!!!!

there isn't any reason why it shouldn't work... you'll connect at "g" speeds, since the actiontec is a g-router... i specificially asked that question when i signed up for fios...

fwiw, i can't VERIFY that it works, because i set up my airport extreme behind the actiontec router to manage the wireless network...

^^ Thanks to both ccotenj and mdw252 for the sanity check :)

I was really scratching my head over this one. It's almost like I fell for a stupid practical joke. I really should (do) know better, but the tech that the sales rep transferred me to (20 minute wait time, BTW.. smells like... Comcast) was adamant. I told him that I just didn't believe that was possible and he said the installer will tell me the same thing.... wonderful. I am beginning to hope that I never REALLY need tech support from them!

In the unlikely event that the VZ folks are correct, thanks to ccotenj for the suggestion about using my airport behind the actiontec. Actually, now it will be my Linksys.... sadly, my daughter's airport died and I "loaned" her mine... like I'll get that back in this life.

OK.. so 9/12 is the day for installation. Stay tuned for feedback on how that goes, along with first impressions. It *has* to be better than Comcast!!!!!

The only problem you are going to have is that so few reps and techs know anything about a Mac, be it FiOS, or on Comcast. If you have a problem, the rep will start with reading a printed page to you, giving you all the obvious steps that you have already done. Yes, the Macs work transparently with the Actiontec router. Your installation tech may not know how to properly setup the router with your Mac, and it may take him longer to get everything working properly. Mine is a Mac only environment, but when my kids bring their PCs here, they too can log on without any problems...wireless is not operating system dependent.

Waiting for my new installation next week and was wondering which of the DVR's is preferred? I don't really care about multi-room or media (PS3 does that).

Those things aside, are there any advantages between the different DVR's?

thanks again.

stevec325 - If you want more detailed info about the ActionTec, head on over the the Verizon FiOS Fiber Optics forum: http://www.dslreports.com/forum/vzfiber, be sure to checkout the companion FiOS TV forum: http://www.dslreports.com/forum/vzfiostv

The focus is on general use stuff, AVS forum is more specialized in HD / home theater.

Geekgirl, you are going to be happy this weekend. I just heard on WIP that the seven second delay will not be in effect for the Eagles game on Sunday to allow it to sync with the TV broadcast.

stevec325 - If you want more detailed info about the ActionTec, head on over the the Verizon FiOS Fiber Optics forum: http://www.dslreports.com/forum/vzfiber, be sure to checkout the companion FiOS TV forum: http://www.dslreports.com/forum/vzfiostv

The focus is on general use stuff, AVS forum is more specialized in HD / home theater.

Cool - thanks. Some good info there.

I think I am pretty good to go for my installation next week.

If you,or anyone can think of some gotcha's that I might be overlooking, please feel free to let me know.

I also want them to mount the ONT in the basement... how close to maount point do you think they will want the AC outlet?

I also want them to mount the ONT in the basement... how close to maount point do you think they will want the AC outlet?

The closer the better! :D

As far as I know FiOS only offers three possible DVRs... The SD 2708, the HD 6416, and the HD 7216. I'm going to assume you're only asking about the two flavors of HD DVR. Both of them support the multi-room functionality. There aren't any confirmed differences between the 6416 and 7216 AFAIK. Also, AFAIK no one has posted anything to the effect of having received a 7216. That said, it's rumored/hoped that the 7216 is at least slightly more reliable than the 6416.

Regardless, it's probably all a moot point since Verizon most likely won't give you a choice. As of July, I believe they're required by the FCC to only be distributing the 7216s (http://www.engadgethd.com/2008/05/16/verizons-cablecard-waiver-expires-july-1/), but my guess is they're kind of fudging things based on the availability of 7216s. Obviously if they're all out, you'll get a 6416.

So basically, I don't think you'll get much of a choice. But, if you do happen to get a 7216, please let all of us know about it!

2708 SD/DVR was taken out of lineup around 3-4months ago
6416 and 6200 srs are beind fazed out by the 7200 series and is all i delt with for over 2 weeks now;)
The 7216 has dolby digi plus,and is M card based.
so the 7216 is the one youd want :D

Cool - thanks. Some good info there.


I also want them to mount the ONT in the basement... how close to maount point do you think they will want the AC outlet?

4-5 feet and not GFId if possible.If being mounted on the foundation ask if the tech has a backboard

4-5 feet and not GFId if possible.If being mounted on the foundation ask if the tech has a backboard

The basement walls are poured concrete. Like my breaker boxes, I assume they would mount the ONT on a backboard. I'm really not sure to what "reasonable" lengths they go to for installation.

Do they offer some kind of pre-installation discussion, to get questions like this answered?

Not really. They show up - where do you want it? What people have done is prepare the area in advance. I hung a 2' x 3' plywood board for them to put their stuff on. That's about what you'd need for everything including the ONT, ActionTec router, coax, splitters, and battery backup.

Be sure that they ground the ONT properly- it must meet code. Lots of discussion on that over on dslreports.com.

Installation tips: http://www.dslreports.com/forum/r20078713-Why-does-installation-take-so-long

Heads Up! Today's washout of the Phillies vs. Mets game has been rescheduled for 2:15 PM Sunday as part of a day-night double header.

Eagles - 1 PM :)
Phillies - 2:15 PM
A couple of 4 PM games
Sunday Night Baseball - Phillies - 8 PM on ESPN.
Sunday Night Football - 8:15 PM on NBC

Flyers - Sept. 22

Not really. They show up - where do you want it? What people have done is prepare the area in advance. I hung a 2' x 3' plywood board for them to put their stuff on. That's about what you'd need for everything including the ONT, ActionTec router, coax, splitters, and battery backup.

Be sure that they ground the ONT properly- it must meet code. Lots of discussion on that over on dslreports.com.

Installation tips: http://www.dslreports.com/forum/r20078713-Why-does-installation-take-so-long

I think I am good to go for my install on Friday. I just installed an outlet in the basement breaker closet for the ONT, PS & BBU. I still need to mount the 2' X 2' plywood board to the basement wall... ugh. The walls are poured concrete and I can't pound the concrete nails into it. I'll have to run up to the rental center tomorrow and get a "gun".

Any chance the FIOS tech would do it, if can't?

So, what am I looking at in terms of cables coming into the basement? They obviously have to bring the fiber in. What do they do with the existing copper phone lines? Can they just pick off the inside wire? How about the coax that goes from the outside splitter box? All my runs feed of splitters in that box.

How big of a hole will they need to cut in to the house for all this?

My thoughts on interconnect (sanity check, please) are:

Fiber -> ONT

Coax from ONT -> Actiontek: using existing run from outside splitter box to the outlet where I want the DVR and Actiontek. Can this be split at the destination, one feed to Aciontek, the other to DVR?

CAT-5 from Actionteck (LAN) -> WRT54G (WAN): using the WR54G as the wireless router. Actiontek will serve up addresses.

Will the other feeds from the outside splitter remain hot? They go to the upstairs B/R's, currently w/o TV's - but, will in the future.

I may look into the "free" digital adapters, if I can find the link to the phone number to call & request them.

Watching Eagles game now with macroblocking... I cannot wait to walk into the Comcast store in town next week with all my boxes & say "Please cancel all my services!!" :)

*** Meant to post in Installation and Hardware Master Topic thread ***

Anyone notice we have some Starz HD in the OnDemand menu now?

Looks like South Jersey made the transition (at least here in the Medford CO)....The Channels have moved. The accelerated premium HD's are in the guide but are listed as coming soon. TBS HD, Golf/Vs, Tennis, WFN and Mav TV are also listed as coming soon........

I think I am good to go for my install on Friday. I just installed an outlet in the basement breaker closet for the ONT, PS & BBU. I still need to mount the 2' X 2' plywood board to the basement wall... ugh. The walls are poured concrete and I can't pound the concrete nails into it. I'll have to run up to the rental center tomorrow and get a "gun".

Any chance the FIOS tech would do it, if can't?

Don't bother renting, let the tech place one of his backboards. He/she should have masonry bits and tapcon screws.

So, what am I looking at in terms of cables coming into the basement? They obviously have to bring the fiber in. What do they do with the existing copper phone lines? Can they just pick off the inside wire? How about the coax that goes from the outside splitter box? All my runs feed of splitters in that box.

If there is an existing connecting block in the basement, that can certainly be used for your telephones. If your splitter is located outside, the tech can run a piece of coax out the same hole that's used for the fiber drop.

How big of a hole will they need to cut in to the house for all this?

about 1 inch.

My thoughts on interconnect (sanity check, please) are:

Fiber -> ONT

Coax from ONT -> Actiontek: using existing run from outside splitter box to the outlet where I want the DVR and Actiontek. Can this be split at the destination, one feed to Aciontek, the other to DVR?

yes it can be split

CAT-5 from Actionteck (LAN) -> WRT54G (WAN): using the WR54G as the wireless router. Actiontek will serve up addresses.

That part is up to you. (BTW, the Actiontec is wireless)

Will the other feeds from the outside splitter remain hot? They go to the upstairs B/R's, currently w/o TV's - but, will in the future.

I would just mention it to the tech to make sure they remain active. Most tech will leave them as they found them.

^ Cool, thanks for the sanity check :)

Geekgirl, did you listen to the radio during the Eagles game? Did it sync to the video or was there still a delay?

Yup. I'm guessing that WIP 610 AM did the live feed since audio was way ahead of the play, almost unusable. WYSP 94.1 FM was about 2 seconds behind the video, so that's what I listened to.

Loved Merrill's copyright announcement, the one that that says "this broadcast is a production of the Eagles and all rights are reserved." Merrill's improv "this route is a production of the Eagles...".:D

We got the new update here in Northern Delaware today. For those of you with a Tivo who now can't record anything because the channels don't line up:

I found that a Kent County Zip Code 19901 was a pretty close Zip. It seems to have every channel except KYW & WPVI HD. It has KYW & WPVI in SD but not HD. WCAU & WTXF is in SD & HD.

You'll have to go & remove all the Baltimore local channels as well, but it seems the closest Zip I could find until Tivo/Verizon gets their listings updated.

Hope it helps. It should work for any Philly suburb (S Jersey, N Del, SE PA) that got updated.

Lemme know if anyone finds a better Zip.

Looks like South Jersey made the transition (at least here in the Medford CO)....The Channels have moved. The accelerated premium HD's are in the guide but are listed as coming soon. TBS HD, Golf/Vs, Tennis, WFN and Mav TV are also listed as coming soon........

Saw that too. Wonder what "coming soon" means since the transition was scheduled for today.

Also, it seems like CBS, ABC, and PBS-52 channels are not what was in the on-line or mailed TV lineup.

Hey everyone. I'm in Newtown. I just noticed this morning that all my HD channels are working, except 812. When I enter it or channel up or down to it, the previous channels image freezes on the screen and then it eventually goes all black. Anyone else having this problem?

Try using the Verizon On Screen Guide to see if 812 is what it says in your updated channel lineup. In the case of SJ there were a few stations that wound up being on different channels. If it does list correctly see if it says "Coming Soon" on the OSG. If it does it just means you'll have to use the old station number for a bit.

Hey tony. For what it's worth, our channel lineup is supposed to change on 9/11. Everything else is where it was last night and they work. 812 is supposed to be PBS HD (channel 12 whyy) It is the only HD channel not working. Just wondering if it was just me or more people. I unplugged the stb for a minute or so to reset it, plugged back in and still a no go. Of course I found this when my 3 year old son wanted to watch Sesame Street. :(

I just did the direct switch to that channel, and then did the up/down scroll through the bottom 800s, and it was working for me. I'm not sure if Yardley and Newtown are on the same switch gear though.

Yeah, I was actually wondering about that since I just got a 7100 and saw the DD+ logo... What is that about since there's currently no content that has DD+ encoded audio? Any upcoming plans you might want to tell us about?;)

:eek:;) I dont wanna say anything for the information i get is to close to where ideas start(if you get me) but I will say verizon is really determined to be the best ;) the future is bright LOL :rolleyes:

Hi Jim. I did try it as well when I got home at 4:30 and all was back. I was hoping this morning it was just the channel, but knowing we are getting some channel movement in the next couple of days, I was hoping they were starting early :) Thanks for checking though.

Eric

The other thing that I noticed was that the WHYY "HD" channel was broadcasting in 480i. I would think they would broadcast in 720p or 1080i and just use the older 4:3 programming, but this was not the case. Maybe PBS channels do this, as we have found that NJN is not at all HD for any part of the day.

Also, I went to the Menu today to see if there was a message posted that told of the lineup change that is scheduled for tomorrow, and there isn't one posted there. Hopefully the new alignment goes off okay!

The other thing that I noticed was that the WHYY "HD" channel was broadcasting in 480i. I would think they would broadcast in 720p or 1080i and just use the older 4:3 programming, but this was not the case. Maybe PBS channels do this, as we have found that NJN is not at all HD for any part of the day.

Interesting. I notice that when the programming transitions every night from Delaware News to the Jim Lehrer News Hour that there is always a "glitch" in the data stream during the in-between stuff. I wonder if it shifts to a HD feed at that point?

That could very well be true, and good evidence that they switch between resolutions depending upon the original content. Funny though, I was doing a "channel roulette" thing the other day, and came upon Hogan's Heroes on HDNet (I think). I doubt this show was shot in 16:9 format so many years ago, yet the broadcast looked quite nice, so much better than early Law and Order stuff that TBS shows as "enhanced" to fill the screen. It shows that when done correctly, the old stuff can be converted to the new formats nicely, but at what price?

On another note: ESPN U HD is now showing on 848 here, but is not shown on the new channel listing as a high def channel. Also, the Guide does not show a "moving to" notice for this...HBO HD doesn't have a notice that 899 will be the new number either! Does anyone know if this channel will persist tomorrow, and if so, where it will reside?

Hey tony. For what it's worth, our channel lineup is supposed to change on 9/11. Everything else is where it was last night and they work. 812 is supposed to be PBS HD (channel 12 whyy) It is the only HD channel not working. Just wondering if it was just me or more people. I unplugged the stb for a minute or so to reset it, plugged back in and still a no go. Of course I found this when my 3 year old son wanted to watch Sesame Street. :(I suspect that you may be missing more than 812. Suggest you call Verizon tech support for a box reset. Their reset does not only the STB, but re-authenticates the channels you are supposed to receive from their servers. The re-authentication can only be done from their end, not the customer. It's worked several times for me when I was "missing" a few channels.

The other thing that I noticed was that the WHYY "HD" channel was broadcasting in 480i. I would think they would broadcast in 720p or 1080i and just use the older 4:3 programming, but this was not the case. Maybe PBS channels do this, as we have found that NJN is not at all HD for any part of the day.


Jim Hef -

See a couple of pages back on this. WHYY definitely switches back and forth between 480i and HD signal throughout the day on FiOS. Not sure what it does OTA, though. For instance, I am watching Sesame Street right now and it is in 480i

I've never seen 720p or 1080i on NJN, sadly. Someone above has made some calls, I think, inquiring why. I don't think that has been resolved.

As for the new channels and lineup, I've only noticed them for the past 1 hour, and I keep on messing up. My fingers are programmed, I guess . . .

Yes, we determined that NJT has 5 separate airings, and FiOS does not have the proper NJT5 high def channel being broadcast.

The rollout of the new channel lineup was efficiently done here, and by my count, we have 87 high def channels including those of the subscription movie channels. We picked up 3 additional networks from the published list, and the others are additions to the Starz, HBO, and Cinemax networks. Very happy to see additions, and expect more later on.

;)Heads up there is an IMG update scheduled the 25th for the SE P.A. / Philadelphia region.

Comcast Sportsnet has announced that as of October 11, they will broadcast all Flyers, Phillies and Sixers home AND AWAY in HD! WooHoo!

http://flyers.nhl.com/team/app?articleid=381747&page=NewsPage&service=page

Flyers in HD? :):):) BTW, the link was broken. Here's the fix: http://flyers.nhl.com/team/app?articleid=381747&page=NewsPage&service=page

Not only that, the Weather Channel HD has finally arrived!

I'm a little disappointed that new VS/Golf channel is part of the sports package. I guess I'll add the sports package just during the hockey playoffs and then drop it. The rest of the sports channels are pretty lame.

Comcast Sportsnet has announced that as of October 11, they will broadcast all Flyers, Phillies and Sixers home AND AWAY in HD! WooHoo!

http://flyers.nhl.com/team/app?articleid=381747&page=NewsPage&service=page (http://http://flyers.nhl.com/team/app?articleid=381747&page=NewsPage&service=page)

we gonna get "real" hd? or are they gonna upconvert sd? don't watch many hockey games, but i rarely miss a sixers game.

...The rest of the sports channels are pretty lame.
What, you aren't a fan of Blackbelt TV??? Yes, the picture quality of the Fox sports channels is terrible, and I've yet to figure out what MavTV is!

Just for reference for anyone who might run into this themselves:

The Good: New Channel Line-up with more HD channels!

The Bad: TiVo not updating the line-up to my TiVo HD units.

After spending an hour determining that the problem was only the TiVos (and btw, Verizon, could you update the website with the new lineup?), I contacted TiVo tech support and after various checks, we ended up changing my zip code from 19355 to 19350, which added another option to my Channel Lineup choices in Guided Setup.

Previously, I had only gotten FIOS Philadelphia, now I also got the option for FIOS Delaware/PA. That appeared to have all the channels mapped correctly. Of course, I then had to change all the channels that I wanted to appear through channel setup. I'm not sure the line-up is 100% correct or not, though. Some of the channels, particularly the net affiliates, were registering with no program info on the TiVo, even after a connection update (which might mean that a couple of channels are different).

All of this, of course, is a problem on TiVo's end. Just thought I'd share my experience so far in case anyone else ran into it.

Hi everyone. Here in Newtown, all the new channels come in. Pic quality is great, sound is great. All seem to work with the execption of Bravo HD. As of last night (Thursday nigh) the guide had the correct info, but the Bravo HD channel was actually broadcasting CNBC HD +. I'm at work, so is this fixed or still doing this. I read in other forums that various SE PA locations had this problem, just didn't know if it is still effecting our lower bucks area.

Eric

As of right now, Bravo HD is up and running here, but I couldn't tell you if there was a problem before.

On the printed channel lineup, CBS ABC and WNJT are listed with incorrect channel numbers. That may also affect how your TIVO is operating. I only checked the high def channels, but some others may be listed incorrectly also. It would take awhile to scroll through all the lineup to check each number though! ;)

Fios was installed today. In a word... uneventful.

The tech was great; he knew his **** and was genuinely amiable. He was happy with the prep work that I did, installing the power outlet and mounting board in the basement. He was cool about sharing the ins & outs of the entire process. Major Kudo's!!!!

It took about 3 hours to complete the installation, from the time he drilled the 1" hole in the house to run the fiber inside to the basement. The ONT is mounted to wall in the electrical closet in the basement. It is the newer ONT, that has the PS & BBU self-contained within. So there is only one "box".

My existing cable runs were 4 home runs, that originate at the junction box on the outside of the house. Beneath that is the phone box (which was removed during the installation). So, he ran a single RG6 and copper (for phone) along with fiber through the 1" hole. I think I will remove the clay putty he used to seal the hole and replace it with expanding foam. Other than that, I was completely satisfied with the mechanics of the installation.

One of the RG6 home runs goes to the family room, where the ActionTec is connected. A splitter breaks that line, with the other side going to the QIP7216. So, MOCA is used up to that point.

I decided (for now) to decommission my WRT54G and just use the ActionTec. I have complete wireless coverage in every room of the house (all 3 floors). In fact, I took my MacBookPro outside and walked the perimeter of the 1/2 acre property... full signal strength everywhere. I was pleasantly surprised, after hearing some pretty bad things about the ActionTec's. Network setup was painless - the router interface was much nicer than the Lynksys.

I renamed the default SSID and turned broadcast off. That will make wireless "invisible" to outsiders. The tech didn't know about that and thought it was a pretty good idea - security wise.

Internet speed, measured using speedtest.net showed 10.7M down and 1.7 up. I plan to call Verizon and bitch about that upload speed. Maybe I'll get the 15/5 for free :)

Now, the real reason for switching from Comcast.... picture quality. Based on about 6 hours of viewing across most of the HD and SD channels, the PQ is unquestionably, significantly better. I observed no macroblocking or noise. Of course, time will tell - but, so far - so good!!!

Random thoughts:

The guide.... OMFG, just horrible. It could not be more non-intuitive or more cumbersome. I guess there is a learning curve, but it does seem painful. It does not fill the 16:9 screen... WTF??? When you call up the guide, you get a 4:3 guide with black bars... is that normal?

I had to call tech support (20 minute hold time) to find the key combination to access the set up menu, so I could turn 4:3 override off. It's "power off", then "OK", then "MENU", then "1", then"2", then "3". That solved the stretching of SD channels.

There are lots of "channel moved to..." listings in the guide. I am assuming that is related to the realignment??? Is there any accurate channel listing available? I looked on the web and what If found was not correct.... again, realignment???

The DVR recording setup is a mixed bag, IMHO - better than Comcast in some regards, yet painful in others. I think I set up a series recording correctly, but not sure. I have it set to record some individual things overnight, so I can see how that works out.

Anyway - that's a brief overview. Overall, I'd rate the installation experience as a 9 on a scale of 1 to 10.

Feedback?

Hi everyone. Just noticed a little issue I am having on my boxes. If I try to order a premium channel I don't get (i.e. starz) after I tune to the channel and press ok to view subscription info, I get an error message that says "subscription error" Sorry we are unable to process your request at this time. Please call 888 553 1555 or try verizon.com/fiostv. This has been happening for a couple of days now. I just successfuly received the SE PA update, got all the channels, and they work. I have an HD STB and two regular STBs. This happens on all 3. I tried unplugging the STB and plugging it back in after a minute or so. Should I try the stb reset tool on the verizon website or just call fios customer support? Anyone else heard of this? Thanks.

Eric

Random thoughts:

The guide.... OMFG, just horrible. It could not be more non-intuitive or more cumbersome. I guess there is a learning curve, but it does seem painful. It does not fill the 16:9 screen... WTF??? When you call up the guide, you get a 4:3 guide with black bars... is that normal?yup, it's normal. and yup, the guide could be better.

I had to call tech support (20 minute hold time) to find the key combination to access the set up menu, so I could turn 4:3 override off. It's "power off", then "OK", then "MENU", then "1", then"2", then "3". That solved the stretching of SD channels.you'd think they would have made this a menu option, wouldn't you? would be a lot easier for those of us who hate stretch-o-vision.

There are lots of "channel moved to..." listings in the guide. I am assuming that is related to the realignment??? Is there any accurate channel listing available? I looked on the web and what If found was not correct.... again, realignment???yup, re-alignment. web seems to be correct for me, but then again, i only watch maybe a dozen different channels.

The DVR recording setup is a mixed bag, IMHO - better than Comcast in some regards, yet painful in others. I think I set up a series recording correctly, but not sure. I have it set to record some individual things overnight, so I can see how that works out.agreed. i'm slowly getting used to it, but i'm still not convinced that i won't get a tivo.

Anyway - that's a brief overview. Overall, I'd rate the installation experience as a 9 on a scale of 1 to 10.seems to be consistent with the rest of our experiences. by FAR the best install experience i've ever had. the lady who came was knowledgeable, personable and professional. this can't be said for comcast installers.

Feedback?

i'm someone who had pretty decent pq via comcast before. however, the pq from fios is above and beyond that. i don't think anyone who has made the switch has any complaints from that end.

hopefully the software and hardware will catch up... i REALLY don't like the qip box (and it's software)...

as far as the router... i kept my existing wireless router "behind" the actiontec... make sure you enable security on their router if you are going to use it...

stevec325 - Congrats! "Uneventful" install is the best you could have. Did they run a ground wire to the ONT? You didn't mention it and it needs to be done.

You can find everything you need about your STB's menus over in the dslreports.com FAQ: http://www.dslreports.com/faq/15925

As for the ActionTec router, I think it's a good one. The complaints are mainly due to the people who run a high number of simultaneous connections, like game servers or peer-peer file sharing. If you want to test the firewall, head over to the Shields Up! test at grc.com: https://www.grc.com/x/ne.dll?bh0bkyd2

The only HD "TV" I have is a 720p projector on a 100" screen; so my HD viewing is limited to a few hours a week and special programs. Last evening was the first time watching since the channels moved, and I was taken aback at the apparent loss of PQ. It used to be pristine, especially on Discovery and Comcast sports; now they look like upconverted SD.

I was not expecting this, and I was not looking to see if if the PQ was the same; it immediately jumped out at me.

Is it possible that Fios is now using the kind of compression that Comcast and Satellite are notorious for, just to fit more HD channels?

I have not heard anyone else complain, could my equipment be at fault ? (the projector is fine, I watched a Blu-Ray movie last night).

...The guide.... OMFG, just horrible...There are lots of "channel moved to..." listings in the guide...Is there any accurate channel listing available?....
Yes, my biggest complaint of the system is the Guide, but it keeps getting somewhat better over time. It was useless when I first subscribed to FiOS after coming from the one via Comcast. PQ is what it's all about, and Comcast couldn't cure any of the pixelation problems I, and my neighbors, had for over a year. Go the FiOS lineup PDF webpage and scroll down to the lower right corner, choosing the SE PA "new" lineup. Unfortunately, I have found a number of errors on there, but it's very close to the way things are located.

Swope, can't help you on the "subscription" thing as I have all services except for the Playboy Channel type stuff. I'll try that and see if I get the same message.

...could my equipment be at fault ?....
Have you reviewed the settings from your STB to see if any of them may have changed during the channel realignment? My PQ hasn't changed at all, but I also am not looking at such a large projected image. Could have been just the particular shows you were watching at the time...give it another look.

Swope, same thing here for the "subscription" info.

Hey Jim. Thanks for checking. So you get the same "subscription failure" message about calling the 888 number or going to verizon.com/fiostv? Wonder why we're getting that? If so I'm glad. Not glad that it doesn't work for us mind you, but that it's not just my stuff/hookup. All my neighbors have Comcast or Directv, so I can't just go to their house and check. Jim, random question. I'm not totally familiar with the way the verizon fios network is run, but do you think that Newtown & Yardley would be on the same central office or branch? In other words both locales would have the same issues with regards to new channel deployment, img deployment, etc. ?

stevec325 - Congrats! "Uneventful" install is the best you could have. Did they run a ground wire to the ONT? You didn't mention it and it needs to be done.

Yes, a ground wire was run from the grounding terminal post on the ONT to the underground water main pipe. This is the same ground point for the electrical boxes.

Since the junction box for the cable runs is outside on the house, the cable splitters are grounded to the iron ground pipe there.

I measured the resistance between both points at < 3ohms.

You can find everything you need about your STB's menus over in the dslreports.com FAQ: http://www.dslreports.com/faq/15925

Ahhh... thanks - I'll check that out :)

As for the ActionTec router, I think it's a good one. The complaints are mainly due to the people who run a high number of simultaneous connections, like game servers or peer-peer file sharing. If you want to test the firewall, head over to the Shields Up! test at grc.com: https://www.grc.com/x/ne.dll?bh0bkyd2

I wasn't sure what the noise was all about... I think it's a pretty decent router. I am getting good LAN speeds and coverage. I think I got all the security things correct. I pass all the tests on the above link :) But, then again, I have a MAC. I even went over to XP (running under Fusion) and ran the tests there using IE.

Update...

;)Heads up there is an IMG update scheduled the 25th for the SE P.A. / Philadelphia region.

Is this the 1.6 UG?

What are getting with that?

...do you think that Newtown & Yardley would be on the same central office or branch?
Not sure of the equipment layout, but yes, we would have the same rollout of channels.

Is this the 1.6 UG?

What are getting with that? Ill see if I could get an approved spec/feature sheet :cool:There is a list of roll out dates for the update in a number of areas (starting this month),Philadelphia is the last scheduled :rolleyes:

(steve)
I have the same HT setup as you -I have the klipsch 82s spkrs a no dvd player:D

GO BIRDS

Ill see if I could get an approved spec/feature sheet :cool:There is a list of roll out dates for the update in a number of areas (starting this month),Philadelphia is the last scheduled :rolleyes:

That would be cool. I am hoping for major usability improvements in the guide, recording and settings. And, if they get HD to stream from DVR -> DVR maybe I'll get another one of those, too :)

(steve)
I have the same HT setup as you -I have the klipsch 82s spkrs a no dvd player:D

GO BIRDS

I have a terminal case of upgradeitis. I am looking at the new 60" Kuro's <sigh> now that I finally can get watchable HD TV :)

Update on my TiVo problems after the FIOS update. It turns out this is actually something of a Verizon problem, after all. Verizon has, in many markets, been very bad about informing TiVo when they change their lineups. As such, TiVo guide update information has been lagging by about 3-4 days from when Verizon does their switch.

On Sunday night, TiVo's update for the Philadelphia Verizon lineup hit and fixed the guide issues. On Monday, Verizon FINALLY updated their SouthEastern PA guide PDF to reflect the actual channels.

...even if it does say 'effective August 2008'. ;)

I looked yesterday, and the PDF still had 503 and 506 which don't exist, and are actually 511 and 514. Not sure about any of the SD channels because I haven't scrolled them. Can you post a link to the lineup you looked at???

I looked yesterday, and the PDF still had 503 and 506 which don't exist, and are actually 511 and 514. Not sure about any of the SD channels because I haven't scrolled them. Can you post a link to the lineup you looked at???



I got it from right here (http://www22.verizon.com/NROneRetail/NR/rdonlyres/41649E58-1DE9-4CB4-873B-E27BAC7F5B28/0/SEPA_PF_091508.pdf).

Stupid question... is it possible to swap tuners on the DVR?

I don't see a "SWAP" button on the remote.

Please be kind,if the answer is obvious :)

I got it from right here (http://www22.verizon.com/NROneRetail/NR/rdonlyres/41649E58-1DE9-4CB4-873B-E27BAC7F5B28/0/SEPA_PF_091508.pdf).
Thanks! That wasn't up when I looked at it just the other day and was waiting for a revision to the listing.

Since the QIP7216 is rolling out... I have started a new thread for that.

You can find it here:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1067803

Is anybody else out there having trouble receiving CSN tonight --- one of my digital adapters went blank in about the 5th inning of the Phils game (channel 76).

My HM-DVR box was OK on ch.576 until the game ended, but during the post game show, it froze up and went to a black screen --- hasn't come back on yet. Every other channel is OK except for 76 and 576.

Am I alone?

EDIT: Just saw this on the DSL Reports board from another poster:

A couple people have called Verizon and have gotten the explanation that Comcast pulled the plug on the SD feed and called a blackout for FiOS customers. Another person was told that Comcast is planning to somehow charge Verizon customers per game to watch games on FiOS. Apparently this only applies to the SD feed. Sounds fishy to me and the telephone reps aren't usually the most reliable sources of info on this stuff. Anyone hear anything about this or if there may be any truth to it?

This does not sound good!

That also sounds fishy to me, and I watched the entire game last night, although for me it was in high-def. With the premium they place on HD subscriptions, why would they pull the plug on SD, and not charge additional for HD???

I need to cry FOUL! The first weekend my Lions are playing on the Big Ten Network when we now have it, and locally we are being shown the Ohio State game. We don't get the subchannels for the network, so we don't have a choice as I understand it is broadcast by Comcast. What's with that? We are SE PA...why would they show Ohio State when the two teams are from PA, and one a very local team??? :mad:

I need to cry FOUL! The first weekend my Lions are playing on the Big Ten Network when we now have it, and locally we are being shown the Ohio State game. We don't get the subchannels for the network, so we don't have a choice as I understand it is broadcast by Comcast. What's with that? We are SE PA...why would they show Ohio State when the two teams are from PA, and one a very local team??? :mad:

What?!! This makes no sense at all! Please explain what you said about Comcast. I went to the BTN website and it shows that Verizon FiOS customers in Philadelphia get Ohio St and Comcast customers get Penn State.

I believe that Comcast has several Big Ten Network channels, and we only have one. They run three or more games per time slot, so they distribute them on different carrier channels, and are shown depending on what service you have. We're stuck, but it obviously makes no sense for two PA teams to be shut out in the SE PA area! I was hoping some local channel would pick up the feed, showing it over the air to Philadelphia, and then we'd have coverage...no listing in the Guide or the newspaper for that though!

...Verizon definitely needs to hear about this from any PSU fans in the audience....
Woiuld anyone know the number to dial to speak to someone about this? Customer service doesn't even know that the Big Ten Network exists!

And, the Guide showed Ohio State, but the game that was aired here was Purdue vs. Central Michigan! WTF!!!! This isn't the MidWest region! If they have the ability to air something else, why would they air something other than the two PA schools???

I can't take much more of of this! :eek: Phillies and Eagles on at the same time nearly drove me crazy. Especially when the tying run was at the plate in the bottom of the 9th and the Steelers were driving to score as the 4th quarter was winding down...

WYSP audio ran about 2 seconds behind CBS. Philly Comcast thread is reporting near perfect sync. Nothing can replace Merrill calling that game. :cool:

I read in another thread that Verizon was delaying the 1.6 IMG rollout due to problems with the software. I was under the impression that we (in S. Jersey) were getting it on 9/25. Anybody know if this is still the case?

-Dan

What more will this do for us, and where can I head to read about it? The Guide sucks now, so hopefully an update will give it some usefulness.

What I'm looking forward to is the Multi-room DVR functionality with HD boxes. As of now, a remote HD box can't be used to access the DVR (whereas an SD box can). I have 2 HDTV's and didn't want an SD box for my 2nd TV just for that purpose.

I actually wasn't told that the HD box wouldn't work (they just told me that the content would be SD.) I understand that the new software update corrects this.

I guess I'll find out tomorrow!

-Dan

I found some write-ups in various places, but none spoke to the Guide itself, just additions of the functions and some games. I guess I'll also wait for tomorrow to see if they add information to the Guide, stuff that we had previously.

Where will the version number be displayed in the Guide? I checked it this morning to see if it had changed overnight, and it appears to be the same.

Menu --> Settings --> System Info. All quiet here. Release: 1.5.0

Version 1.5 still shows today. Maybe after the weekend we'll have it???

Oregon State 27...USC 21! :p Go Lions!

Menu --> Settings --> System Info. All quiet here. Release: 1.5.0

Ditto.

Still 1.5 this morning! Where was the source of a 1.6 version update for 25 Sept published? I'm anxiously awaiting to see if the Guide is at all useful, and if we can get all the "moved" channels off the screen!

Still 1.5 this morning! Where was the source of a 1.6 version update for 25 Sept published? I'm anxiously awaiting to see if the Guide is at all useful, and if we can get all the "moved" channels off the screen!

This from DSL Reports Forums...

http://www.dslreports.com/forum/r20938618-Philly-Metro-VHO8-Update~start=520#end

Thanks...we have a bit of waiting for that. I'll be patient!

Sounds like it might be worth the wait, though :)

Anyone know when Fios in Brookhaven, PA will be up and running?

i live in aston and have been wondering forever when it will show there.

We have a listing for Versus in HD, but we get no signal. My husband called, got tech support, and they said that we should be getting it. I told him, I thought we were supposed to be subscribed to the EXTREME HD package.

Can someone clear up my fog?

I don't get it either. I think it's part of the sports package.

Well, my hubs TRIED to add it, and they couldn't FIGURE IT OUT.
Very disturbing. They sent our boxes a new signal or some such thing.

Well, MOJO announced that it's going off the air as of December. That channel was the sole reason I would have stayed with Crapcast.

RIP Three Sheets. Greatest. Show. Ever.

OK, so, when is FIOS comnig to Abington again?

I tried Versus Golf HD channel 590. Message said I wasn't subscribed. Couldn't care less. Unless there's hockey on it.

GeekGirl - you know that they are starting the flyers, soon. :) You'll care.

I don't understand why we aren't getting it, but I'll definitely call my husband and tell him, after the box reset yesterday, absolutely nothing changed. So, obviously, nothing was done.

Versus is listed in the Sports category, but I don't remember if there's an asterisk attached to the channel lineup that states you need the Sports tier subscription to get the channel. I have that tier, and I am receiving the channel. Interestingly, the standard def channel at 90 is listed as Versus, while the high def channel at 590 is listed as Vs/Golf HD...both are showing the same program!

Jim, the strange thing is... we called with EVERY INTENTION of ordering the tier. But they told us we should be getting it for free. See our confusion? They were so confused they sent a signal to the box.

Versus is listed in the Sports category, but I don't remember if there's an asterisk attached to the channel lineup that states you need the Sports tier subscription to get the channel. I have that tier, and I am receiving the channel. Interestingly, the standard def channel at 90 is listed as Versus, while the high def channel at 590 is listed as Vs/Golf HD...both are showing the same program!
Jim,
Vs/Golf at 590 is a combined channel of Versus HD + Golf Channel HD as currently there isn't a dedicated Golf Channel HD. Much of it is VS programming , same as 90, however if you look at the gude especially on Thursdays & Fridays when golf channel has pga coverage you'll see 590 broadcasting as Golf Channel HD.

Jim,
Vs/Golf at 590 is a combined channel of Versus HD + Golf Channel HD as currently there isn't a dedicated Golf Channel HD. Much of it is VS programming , same as 90, however if you look at the gude especially on Thursdays & Fridays when golf channel has pga coverage you'll see 590 broadcasting as Golf Channel HD.

So, Paoli, are you getting this channel in HD? And if you are, are you subscribed to whatever the sports package is, or are you not subscribed to anything at all?

Yes, I'm getting 590 Vs/Golf HD but I've had the sports package since I signed up. I don't subscribe to any packages beyond the sports package but i get all the new HD channels they rolled out (minus the movie channels) via my cablecard....didn't have to add any new HD packages. So not sure if you're supposed to be getting 590 with your Extreme subscription ...hopefully someone else with extreme can answer

They still haven't labeled my subscription as Extreme HD, at least not on my bill, and I have every channel they offer, with the exception of the "adult" channels and any of the alternate language stuff.

We have the movie package (I can't remember the name, but we get all the movie channels), so I'm a little confused why they haven't the foggiest what the package is to get Versus/Golf in HD.

It's quite frustrating.

I think I've gotten a clue about this. When I put in my zip on the FIOS site, it doesn't show anything but the SD Versus channel, which is why the techs must have been confused.

I suspect the Jim and Paoli have "early rollouts" because of the package they are enrolled in.

I am at work, but could you tell me what channel the HD version of Versus/Golf is?

Thanks!

Bronwyn, HD Versus/Golf is on channel 590. I have the sports package which gave me the Golf channel on 305 ( now 304) so I'm assuming it's the Sports Package that gave me HD Versus/Golf on 590 with the new HD rollout. If you add sports package i'm sure you'll get it...if it's not supposed to be part of extreme already. . FYI, I'm in Paoli(19301) so I'm assuming you and I should have identical channels available to us. I've had fios a few years.

I figured you were in Paoli... something about your name... ;)

So, yesterday, we got a tech who knew what was going on, sat on the phone with us with the customer service rep. Apparently, our premier package was up in 1 month... so we upgraded to the Extreme HD package (this time, they knew what we were talking about when we didn't have VS)... and actually, it's the same price. I think it upgraded our internet speed, also. We also got long distance phone which we didn't have before.

They said it would take 8 hours, but we got Versus immediately. My husband was very pleased, especially when he got home and saw hockey on. :)

So, thanks for all your help, apparently Cust Serv, as per usual with ANY company, is clueless as ever.

So is this the time to call a Verizon rep and discuss new package terminologies? I've been a subscriber since the first month FiOS was available, and nothing about "Extreme" is noted for me.

Jim,

Honestly, I don't know... we just called the tech and once we got one who knew what we were talking about, it seemed to work. I don't know if the "roll-out" of these packages JUST happened, or if we were dealing with ... well, customer service.

:)

Hey everyone. I was reading the last couple of posts and thought I would chime in with some stuff I read on dslreports. I have also logged in to the verizon website to see if what they say is true. It looks like eventually verizon is only going to have three levels of tv service. Local, 15 channels, Premier, which will be all the sd channels, not including movies, etc. and locals in HD, and HD Extreme, which will be all sd channels and all HD channels not including movies, etc. In reading, it sounds like customers in various parts of the country have been treated differently. Some are receiving the newer HD channels and others are having some newer HD channels dropped and having to subscribe to the Extreme HD package.

In looking at the site, they are offering several bundles. I currently have verizon essentials for phone, 15/2 internet and fios premier which is bundled for 114.99. They now offer, or it looks like will offer soon in our area once some more HD channels rollout such as Speed HD, FX HD, and others what they call Fios Triple Freedom packages. One is essentials for phone, 10/2 for internet, and extreme HD for tv for 99.99. Another is essentials, 20/5 and extreme HD for 109.99. You can of course alter you phone plan, internet plan and add tv extras for more, but those are the base packages. I could potentially get more channels and faster internet for $5 a month less.

I probably won't call and upgrade or do anything until we get the other HD channels or the day comes when we are supposed to get them and I don't because I have to upgrade. At this point if it ain't broke don't fix it. But since I recently purchased my first HD tv, I want as many HDs as I can get.

This is just what I have read and interpreted from dslreports, and saw when playing around on the verizon site. I actually had to type in a different address then my own to see all the available packages in an attempt to customize them. If I typed in my own, it would say Fios is already installed at this address, call to upgrade. If I typed in a different address, it let me play around with the different possibilities.

Another difference is they are only offering one year contracts, no more two year deals. Hope I helped a little and didn't confuse anyone more.

Yes, it seems a call is in order next week, and hopefully I get a knowledgeable rep to deal with, which is true for most times I speak with someone.

I don't get it. If I go with the Extreme HD and up my internet to 20/5, I save $20/month? FWIW, here's the thread on DSL Reports: http://www.dslreports.com/forum/r21178272-Extreme-HD-and-Essentials~start=260#21251579

Philly Extreme HD channel listing: https://www22.verizon.com/NROneRetail/NR/rdonlyres/58C340D0-C5D8-4C83-8792-C18E5798D68B/0/SEPA_HDX_100808.pdf

I better get signed up quick. Flyers / Penguins Tuesday night on Versus. No Extreme HD, no Versus HD.

(Flyers / Rangers tonight....)

This is also what I want to find out since I'm getting the Versus/Golf HD, and all others, as I'm presently subscribed.

Just got off the phone with the rep, and yes, you need to sign up for Extreme HD if you want to continue getting all the channels they have just installed, plus the additional "coming soon" channels. With my present subscription, the Sports and Movies and the HBO/Cinemax/Starz movie bundle came out to about $39 per month additional. The new Extreme HD bundle puts the sports into that tier, and gives you every channel for $29 per month. That also includes an "upgrade" to 20/5 internet from the original 15/2. Of course, I changed over, but plan to be on the phone for awhile...it took about 15 minutes for me until they could figure out what I should be applying for. Overall though, the service rep was very good and accommodating! I called the number that GeekGirl stated above...800/840.5503.

Forgot one aspect of this...if you don't sign up for the Extreme package, you may actually lose channels that you now have, for whatever reason. Can't tell you what they might be because I didn't ask, and I've had the complete package of all available channels including the premium movie stuff.

As for us, with the movie package, we found that we got much more channels, plus the upgraded speed in our internet, plus long distance/caller id, etc...

Thanks for the update, Jim!

It would be a lot simpler if Verizon just rolled over the present subscriber packages, and informed you that you were just enrolled in whatever the new package was named, and at what rate they were doing this. Then they could offer additional bundling that you called in for, or accessed via the web. It would have saved quite a bit of rep time, and subscriber time.

Just ordered a package - Verizon Freedom Essentials, Extreme HD, 20/5. I think that my "free" digital adapters are no more as I changed the package. They gave me an install date of 10/23??? Can't they do this in a few hours online?

Update: I'm calling tomorrow to fix this. Others on DSL Reports say that it should be done in a few hours. It's not entered in correctly and my adapters should remain free.

Wow! Phillies - we get Tim McCarver. Flyers - Bill Clement is back! I'm gonna burn out the "last" button on my remote swapping channels. Now if they could only level the audio between the channels... :)

GeekGirl -
I can't watch, going to make me crazy. I hear my husband going back and forth from channel to channel. 2-1 for both right now. I asked him if he has lost his mind yet.

Very fun for Philly right now, though! Phillies, and Flyers... yeah, and Eagles, oh my!

:)

I really do NOT want to watch a Dodgers vs. Rays World Series... but, both Boston and our Phils seem to be making that more of a reality each game.

The game tonight is killing me :(

But, the picture is great - so we have that going for us :)

EDIT AFTER THE GAME:

OMG... what can you say?????????????? Amazing!

What an emotional roller coaster. Woo-Hoo!!!!

Steve, did you watch the Eagles on Sunday? All our teams snatch victory from the jaws of defeat!

Steve, did you watch the Eagles on Sunday? All our teams snatch victory from the jaws of defeat!

Yea, that was a great game, too!

...Others on DSL Reports say that it should be done in a few hours....
Just checked my speed at DSLReports and confirmed the upgrade is in place today. As of yesterday mid-afternoon, it was still confirming the older speed. Today I am very close to the 20/5 as advertised. So, one day after calling in.

Still cooling down from last night. On top of everything else, can you believe that the freakin' Giants lost? :) That's everyone except the Iggles. Oh yeah, the Flyers are 0-2. :mad:

IMHO, Tim McCarver is the best in the business. Notice how he spotted the refs chastising Larry Bowa to go back into his coaching box. He was stealing the catcher's signs.

But I digress...

All is OK with my Verizon upgrade. I called about 9 AM this morning and she got it all straightened out. Couldn't be easier. Turns out that the person who took my order last night screwed it up big time. The order from last night was deleted and my (somehow separated) accounts combined correctly with the upgrade. Total time for everything was 20 minutes.

My 3 free digital adapters are in the system. They will remain free. My HD DVR will remain an extra charge.

Got the Extreme HD, 20/5, Verizon Freedom Essentials triple play for $109.99. Getting turned on tomorrow- there's a 1 day business review. I already accepted the Terms of Service that showed up in my email.

After talking to this extremely helpful rep, she explained that Verizon contracts out their sales reps for promotions. So, anytime you see a promotion and phone number, it's probably not a Verizon employee.

My rep was a bonafide Verizon employee. That made all the difference. From now on, call the Verizon business office during normal business hours to do anything (800)840-5503. That number is for PA / Del only.

Girl and Jim, did either rep give you a timeline for when would would get the coming soon HD channels? I was going to wait till they add them, and take what I have away before doing the upgrade. I am also going to add the home media dvr service, so I figured do it all at once when everything is in place.

Just a quick side note, I see the two of you are from Yardley, what general location? My wife grew up on Ovington Rd, off of Yardley Morrisville Rd. Just went to the Continental Tavern since they remodeled, very nice.

Steve, where about in Newtown? We currently live about a mile north of where Goodnoe's used to be on 532. God I miss their ice cream.

swope - I didn't ask for a timeline. Called from work and wanted to keep the time short. A general location is near the township building. The Yardley Inn is also nice.

Watching the Flyers / Penguins on Versus SD (HD coming tomorrow). An ad for Verizon Wireless just blasted my ears out. Been discussed ad nauseum- no standards for audio level. I guess the guys at the Philly VHO give their own stuff a bit of a "tweak" to help build business. Geeez. I didn't realize that they throw in a free bonus ear clip if you sign up for a bundle package.:rolleyes:

Never been to the yardley, but I want to try their sunday brunch sometime. No problem about the timeline, it just seems that different threads on dslreports have different dates for us, so was hoping a rep gave you a date. Thanks again. LMT has a great playground and pool. My two boys love going there to play.

Girl and Jim, did either rep give you a timeline for when would would get the coming soon HD channels?

I called yesterday to find out more. The guy I talked to said "by the first of the year". I'm waiting, too. VS is the only channel I'm interested in that I don't get and it doesn't exactly seem like it's worth $10 a month. The HD channels that are being added soon don't sound too exciting, either.

If you have the Premier package, you should already be getting Versus SD on channel 90.

...I'm waiting, too....
What service do you presently have, any high def? I'm not sure why you are waiting and not enjoying the channels that presently exist.

Swope, off Edgewood Road near Makefield Road...not far from Westover.

I think it's called "TV Essentials". I am paying $48/month and I have an HD DVR free for a year. I get around 42 HD channels, including all the new ones added in September, except VS.

Better call the 800 number GeekGirl posted above to check on that. From what was posted on DSLReports, you may not be receiving those HD channels for very long:

• No more Premier Package for new customers -- it is probable that once contracts run out for current customers they will no longer be able to keep this package;

• No more separate Sports Package -- it has been rolled into the new Extreme HD package (see below);

• Created a smaller package called Essentials -- the ONLY HD channels being offered in this package are up to 14 local HDs. It also does NOT include certain SD channels such as RFDTV, CurrentTV or any of the channels formerly in the Sports package. Current price is $47.99/month if not bundled with other services;

• Created a new package called Extreme HD -- includes all "non-premium" (e.g. HBO, etc.) channels, including some SD channels (RFDTV, Current TV), all the channels in the previous Sports Package, and ALL the HD channels available. Current price is $57.99/month if not bundled with other services;

• Other packages (e.g. Movies, etc) are still available on top of whatever package you get (Essentials or Extreme HD).

[
IMHO, Tim McCarver is the best in the business. Notice how he spotted the refs chastising Larry Bowa to go back into his coaching box. He was stealing the catcher's signs.

But I digress...



Uh? What? Next to Joe Buck, McCarver is just about the worst in the business. You can lump in the TBS and ESPN guys (except MAYBE Joe Morgan. Maybe.) into that list.

Newsflash: when you let your personal bais or corporate mandates hang out when you're supposed to be an impartial commentator, you are disrespecting the fans AND the game. Sheesh.

Sorry to momentarily hijack the thread, but come on.

McCarver and I are the same age, and I've followed his career in St Louis and here, and really like the guy, and his insights. Yes, he sometimes goes a bit far in his comments, but he's earned them with 23 years of experience in the Big Leagues. To each his own, but I digress also....

Better call the 800 number GeekGirl posted above to check on that. From what was posted on DSLReports, you may not be receiving those HD channels for very long

OK, now I'm on board! The people I talked to on the phone didn't offer any bundles but when I went online it showed me the Verizon Flex bundle which has 20/5 Internet and the Extreme HD TV package for $75 ($36 savings).

Seriously, talk to a rep! Tell them you want the best deal possible, and they will work with you. Do you have your telephone with them also? That's another round of discounts. The market is very competitive right now, and they want you as a customer, and the website "deals" may not have been updated for several weeks.

Seriously, talk to a rep! Tell them you want the best deal possible, and they will work with you. Do you have your telephone with them also? That's another round of discounts. The market is very competitive right now, and they want you as a customer, and the website "deals" may not have been updated for several weeks.

Yeah, I called and I'm getting the Flex bundle. I have my phone through Vonage and I only pay $15/month. Verizon couldn't offer anything better than that.

We now have the 1.6 version of the Guide, and I'm happy that one feature has returned, the cast listing for any movie. Now I need to play with the other features to see if they give me any increased functionality, such as streaming the DVR to another location in the house.

We now have the 1.6 version of the Guide, and I'm happy that one feature has returned, the cast listing for any movie. Now I need to play with the other features to see if they give me any increased functionality, such as streaming the DVR to another location in the house.

I had an ER5 on my 6416 display this morning. I figure it is connected to the 1.6 upgrade. I did a cold reboot and everything seems okay. Is this something I should worry about?

Jim,

It seems that the 1.6 U/G was uneventful for me. Other than a few minor glitches (that were all reported on DSL Forums) - everything is fine.

The green line issue with 1080i resolution over HDMI seems to be resolved. My Toshiba 1080p LCD has a "Native" (1:1 pixel mapping) mode and with IMG 1.5 it was showing a thin green line on the right side of the screen. It was the first thing that I did check this morning. Looks to be fixed.

...Is this something I should worry about?
I don't think you need to worry about anything. My various sets reacted differently to the upgrade for some reason, but none had to be given a hard reboot.

Anyone else having this issue since the upgrade to 1.6? On my HD box, and both SD boxes, I ran the self diagnostic test under the help menu on all three boxes, and got the following results. All the tests passed except DNS failed, and EPG server failed. I pinged my verizon DNS server numbers and got a reply. On all three boxes I get the guide to go out to two weeks from now. Anyone else getting the same thing? If so is it something to call about?
Also, the first setting, OOB/SN ratio, I believe is basically my signal strength. What is a good number? My one set is 20, another 21, and another 25.

Thanks in advance.

I duplicated your results. I wouldn't worry about it. I also ran the diagnostics and posted it over on DSL reports:

However, the SD quality is crap. Lots of complaints over on DSL Reports: http://www.dslreports.com/forum/r21280209- (full thread: http://www.dslreports.com/forum/r21196972-IMG-16-Build-0689-Released~start=620

Girl, when you say remote reset, do you mean via the my verizon website?

Thanks to GeekGirl and JimHef for all the information about the new bundles. I just jumped to ExtremeHD and faster internet, and in the process saved myself about $10/month. Not sure I will ever really take advantage of the higher-speed internet service, but I know I will definitely watch the HD sports channels plus whatever else comes along.

swope - yep. Login to your verizon.com account (not the .net one for internet) and view your TV services. There should be a box on the right that lists your STBs by serial number. Select the ones you want to reset and hit "Reset". Suggest you use Internet Explorer - the "in progress" box doesn't show the animation while it's talking to your STB. You can also do a "Health Check" to see if it's online.

That's different than having Verizon do the reset. Their reset also authenticates your box to be sure you get all the channels you pay for. If you're missing channels (some work, some don't), you need to have Verizon do the reset.

Just has Fios installed yesterday in Glenside. I love it.

I called on Thursday, and yes, they installed on Sunday. Took about 4 1/2 hours or so.

Just has Fios installed yesterday in Glenside. I love it.

I called on Thursday, and yes, they installed on Sunday. Took about 4 1/2 hours or so.

How long did the install take?
How long did you have to wait from the time the order was placed until your install date?

I'm considering the same move myself before the current promotion ends 10/31 and am curious of other folks's experiences.

Did you have Comcast previously? Why did you switch?

Thanks,
Eric

How long did the install take?
How long did you have to wait from the time the order was placed until your install date?

I'm considering the same move myself before the current promotion ends 10/31 and am curious of other folks's experiences.

Did you have Comcast previously? Why did you switch?

Thanks,
Eric

I'm just finishing up month-one with my switch from Comcast to FIOS. I can tell you that FIOS is significantly better than Comcast. The bottom line is... Picture Quality. There is no comparison - FIOS is really "that" good and it is so much better than Comcast. It's what HD should look like.

The internet speeds (even the slowest one, 10 down / 2 up) are faster, too. If you order the HD Extreme package, that comes with 20/5 - if you currently have DSL or Comcast, it's like comparing a Yugo to a Ferrari.

My Comcast bill, all the channels + internet was about $195/month. Add regular phone for another $75/month and my overall cost was around $265 each month. With the FIOS Triple Play (Phone+TV+Internet), I pay $151 a month. You do the math :)

Comcast: Lousy picture, fewer channels (especially HD channels), slow internet for more $$$.
FIOS: The BEST picture, more HD, faster internet for LESS $$$.

No brainer. Most FIOS customers will tell you the same stories. My neighbors are all switching, now that they have seen my picture quality.

For me, the installation took about 1 week from order to install date. Installation itself took about 3 hours. That went pretty smooth. Just a fair amount of equipment to install and configure. All in all, very painless. You will get a new "box" (known as the ONT) and a new router.

Here's a few links to read up on, so you can prepare for the installation and some other helpful info...

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=621323

http://www.dslreports.com/forum/vzfiostv

Geez... I sound like a friggin commercial <sigh>. No, I don't work for Verizon - LOL :)

I am moving in Laverock next month... and I badly want FIOS at my new house. VZ says they do not have FIOS available or any other info. I would really appreciate any kind of inside info on when FIOS will be available in Laverock.

Thanks.

Just has Fios installed yesterday in Glenside. I love it.

I called on Thursday, and yes, they installed on Sunday. Took about 4 1/2 hours or so.

I'm in Jenkintown. Wonder if they have it yet...goofy dual zones....

Now that Comcast is dropping MOJO, I'm in.

How long did the install take?
How long did you have to wait from the time the order was placed until your install date?

I'm considering the same move myself before the current promotion ends 10/31 and am curious of other folks's experiences.

Did you have Comcast previously? Why did you switch?

Thanks,
Eric

As stated in my original post, ordered on a Thursday and they came and set up that Sunday, so it was only 3 days. Took them 4 1/2 to install everything (phone, TV, internet.) I did have comcast and switched because the cost of TV went up and it was a better move to bundle with verizion.

My Comcast bill, all the channels + internet was about $195/month. Add regular phone for another $75/month and my overall cost was around $265 each month. With the FIOS Triple Play (Phone+TV+Internet), I pay $151 a month. You do the math :)


Wow, they gave me a discount, was going to be $125 for all 3 but the guy told me he is giving me -10.00 per month for 12 months since I got the Extreme HD package. So, it SHOULD be $115+taxes for phone, internet and TV.

Wow, they gave me a discount, was going to be $125 for all 3 but the guy told me he is giving me -10.00 per month for 12 months since I got the Extreme HD package. So, it SHOULD be $115+taxes for phone, internet and TV.

Yea, the total package is $119, if you get the movies added. The taxes will take it up to about $150.

How long did the install take?
How long did you have to wait from the time the order was placed until your install date?....
Funny post! You quoted the answers to your questions...wasn't that obvious?

If anyone cares, Verizon is still giving away digital converters for analog TVs. There's no monthly charge for the boxes. You get all the Non-HD channels, just not pay-per-view, guide, etc.

I'm still calling them to correct the charges for my free adapters. Been about 4 months now. I get charged, I call, they tell me my adapters are free, they credit my account. Maybe this new package will fix it.

Or, maybe I'll go crazy. The music they play while on hold would make elevator music a pleasant alternative. :rolleyes:

If anyone cares, Verizon is still giving away digital converters for analog TVs. There's no monthly charge for the boxes. You get all the Non-HD channels, just not pay-per-view, guide, etc.

I was told that only one digital converter was free, and the rest were 3.99 per month (as opposed to the regular boxes which are 4.99). Is this not true?

Next time you get that, ask them to put you back on hold so you can finish hearing the song...they never seem to understand that humor.

I need to look at my bill to be sure the one adapter I have is not being billed!

You should be able to get up to 3 free adapters.

An observation: Some PC monitors have a composite video input with Picture-in-Picture. The adapter has a composite video output.

The coax near my computer station was used for the Actiontec router connection. I assume that the router talks back to the system to give you the Guideand pay per view. Can the coax be split at that point to feed an adapter box? I have S-video connections into my high res monitor.

The coax near my computer station was used for the Actiontec router connection. I assume that the router talks back to the system to give you the Guideand pay per view. Can the coax be split at that point to feed an adapter box? I have S-video connections into my high res monitor.

Yes, it can be split. Just get a good quality splitter with bandwidth from 5-1000 MHz. With 2:1 splitter your loss should be somewhere in the neighborhood of 3.5-4 dB, 3:1 splitter - around 8 dB of loss. And not the cheap stuff from RadioShack.

NHL Center Ice is up, starting at 1475! Can't order by remote, have to call to order.

Hi everyone. Girl, Jim, Steve, Xela, or anyone else local to Newtown/Yardley, can you tell me if the above channels tune in for you? 471-473. 471 is wlvt kids, 472 is also a wlvt channel adn 473 is a whyy channel. Thanks for checking.

Hi everyone. Girl, Jim, Steve, Xela, or anyone else local to Newtown/Yardley, can you tell me if the above channels tune in for you? 471-473. 471 is wlvt kids, 472 is also a wlvt channel adn 473 is a whyy channel. Thanks for checking.

I just checked... all three give me a black screen with "channel unavailable".

Nothing on 471 or 472, but I get a picture with no sound on 473.

I get 471, 472, but nothing on 473.

Today I am receiving all three channels, and the fourth, 474.

It's weird. I get 471, 472, and 474, but 473 comes and goes. Even though it lists a program it's black at times and other times it's on (i.e. early this morning, I got 471-474).

471, 472, 474. No 473.

FYI - I don't know what the Fox Phillies broadcast looked like for Game 5. Time was spent recalibrating my eyes and ears at the ballpark. Monday. Wednesday. Unbelievable. :D:D:D

Nothing like being there to get the "immersive" qualities of true high def!!! Hope the weather didn't beat you up too much though. I was at the '80 final game, and being in the city for it was very memorable.

GeekGirl, what section were you in? I was in 112. What a week.

Directly across from me! 135.

Monday - Fully "immersed" - there's nothing like watching the game with 40 deg rain pouring off your cap.

Wednesday - What a difference. Amazing view from the field during batting practice- got a good high-def reference of the grass and chalk line. Not to mention all those fireworks after the game. Did anyone notice those guys on the roof, just under the stadium lights? I assume that was security.

Audio check - I assume everyone heard me (and frankd?) booing the commissioner as he presented the trophy. Nice of Phanavision to cut him out of the picture. He was still talking and the camera panned to Pat Gillick.

Skipped the parade. It can't trump being at the game and it's not worth the hassle since the commuter rail lines are hosed due to over-crowding.

It really was a crazy week; I had a couple 3 hrs of sleep nights. Wednesday night was a walk in the park weather wise compared to Monday. I didn't notice the "high" security; I have seen guys up there before that I think were there for the fireworks. After the game over in left field fans were throwing their towels down to a cop on the field and he would rub some "field dirt" form the warning track on them and throw them back. I love to see good natured police having some fun witch I saw a few examples of that night.

I decided to skip the parade. I'm grateful I was able to be at the game. The highlight of my celebrating was G Dobbs spaying beer on me after the game. I work in a small office and I wanted to be in to cover for anyone/everyone that took the day off to go to the parade.

(Please excuse my being so far of topic. I'll shut up now.)

OK, almost back on topic. You can catch Chase Utley's "speech" today on youtube.com: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UwOroBj13eE Caution, adult language (in case you haven't heard). Broadcast live, no editing by anyone. Too bad I missed it live.

(OK, I'm done now.)

Hey everyone. Has anybody logged into hxxp://www36.verizon.com/fiostv/web/ lately? When I do I get the following screen:

I swear I logged in previously and had a parental control option and a favorites option, within the last week. And now they aren't there. Just wondering what anyone else is seeing.

How did you get there? I tried a number of ways to get that screen, but nothing works. I don't see anything to point to web access when I login to my account. Do you need media manager? I don't have it.

Use the address in the attached photo in this message, it's different than my previous post. Or click here https://www36.verizon.com/fiostv/web/signin.aspx This should bring you to a log in screen. At this point you might have to try your login using either your username, password and the verizon.net option or username, password and verizon.com option. For me only the .com option works. If it works, it will say retrieving account information. If not, it will say you must subscribe to fios tv. This brings you to the screen in my previous post.

I was able to signin to your link, but only the Verizon.net account worked. I don't have the home media DVR, so I can't do anything other than view the listings. However, it's the first time I could see that I am actually subscribed to the Extreme HD package (the Verizon.com account only said "FiOS TV Service").

It also lists the model number as well as the serial numbers with a picture of the STBs. That will be helpful for a lot of people.

I was able to log in also, saw the list of STBs, but it was not correct, although I didn't review each serial number. Also, it told me that I wasn't subscribed to the Movie Package, yet I am, and receive everything I should. Makes me want to call them and see that I am now correctly subscribed so I don't lose anything, and then need to get it reactivated. So, don't trust that link for important information!

Hi All,

Does anyone know when the FIOS Extreme HD channels will be available in the South Jersey market? I upgraded to Extreme yesterday but still do not see the "Coming Soon" channels listed on the October Southern NJ PDF listing.


thanks,

Joe

Looks like Philadelphia itself will have to wait a long time to get FiOS. In the Inquirer today, it speaks of "within three years"...not a good thing!

Great news. Comcast just raised my Triple play bill by over a $100. "The promotion is over," I was informed.

The digital cable along went up 2-12 times, and the internet cost doubled. That craptastic DVR is $16/month too.

Unreal. I told them that they lost another customer.

When oh when is FIOS coming to Jenkintown PA ???? Need to pull the plug ASAP.

Great news. Comcast just raised my Triple play bill by over a $100. "The promotion is over," I was informed.

The digital cable along went up 2-12 times, and the internet cost doubled. That craptastic DVR is $16/month too.

Unreal. I told them that they lost another customer.

When oh when is FIOS coming to Jenkintown PA ???? Need to pull the plug ASAP.

Hopefully soon, Glenside has it...and even though I have it, we keep getting calls that it is in the area.

I have had FIOS in the Lansdale area for approaching 2 years now -- and have become more and more disappointed with it. While the picture is good when it works, we have been experiencing a great deal of technical problems over the past six months. Bad pixelation problems, audio dropouts, freezing boxes, and a really annoying message that states "currently unavailable" on numerous channels. Each tech support call to resolve a problem generally requires at least an hour of time due to the long hold times and being transferred a minimum of three times per call even though I hit all the right prompts with their idiotic automated attendant... I have had all of my boxes exchanged once and re-set at least 6 times, and the problems just continue. At this point I am looking for alternatives as FIOS is not living up to the expectations - the service has a ton of warts that become more and more apparent the longer you have it.

I have had FIOS in the Lansdale area for approaching 2 years now -- and have become more and more disappointed with it. While the picture is good when it works, we have been experiencing a great deal of technical problems over the past six months. Bad pixelation problems, audio dropouts, freezing boxes, and a really annoying message that states "currently unavailable" on numerous channels. Each tech support call to resolve a problem generally requires at least an hour of time due to the long hold times and being transferred a minimum of three times per call even though I hit all the right prompts with their idiotic automated attendant... I have had all of my boxes exchanged once and re-set at least 6 times, and the problems just continue. At this point I am looking for alternatives as FIOS is not living up to the expectations - the service has a ton of warts that become more and more apparent the longer you have it.

I have been very happy with my TV and Internet service and the price is great. However, I have to agree that the customer service is awful. The people on the phone can never help me and transfer me to someone else, who also cannot help me... If they had a good website I wouldn't even need to call them, but their website is also terrible. It's difficult to navigate and contains incomplete or inaccurate information.

But maybe the most infuriating part is that you can only have 1 "order" active at a time. For example, I called a couple of days ago to be cancel my HBO/Cinemax preview. While I was on the phone I asked for a breakdown of my bill and the amount I was told was higher than I agreed to. I was told that I was being charged for my digital adapters but I needed to be transferred to the GoDigital department to fix that. After 10 more minutes of waiting on hold and then giving the GoDigital people my information they said that there's an active order on the account so they can't do anything and I should call back in a couple of days. Why can't I cancel HBO and Cinemax myself online? Why can't I see my itemized bill online? Frustrating.

You should be able to see every gory detail of your bill. Maybe you're logging into the wrong account? Try here: https://www22.verizon.com/myverizon/

I see I'm going to have to call them to understand why I have all those extra charges on my bill. It's the first one for the bundle discount and there's a lot of items for adding / partial month credits. On top of that, they still charged me for my free digital adapters. :rolleyes:

I have had FIOS in the Lansdale area for approaching 2 years now -- and have become more and more disappointed with it. While the picture is good when it works, we have been experiencing a great deal of technical problems over the past six months. Bad pixelation problems, audio dropouts, freezing boxes, and a really annoying message that states "currently unavailable" on numerous channels...Not time to give up. There's a lot of helpful info in this forum for problems like this. Let's start here:

It sounds like your STBs aren't getting the right level of signal. At the time of install, they should have set the signal levels to be correct when it arrives at the STB. Has there been any work done on the RF coax since the install? Did anyone change anything like add a splitter, move cables, etc.?

The STBs have built-in diagnostics that tell you when they're not happy. Check out this FAQ: http://www.dslreports.com/faq/verizonfios/4.0_FiOS_Television#15925 You want to see what "d04 Inband Status" is tellling you for AGC, SNR. It should be good with no errors.

Hi everyone. I just had a quick question. I am seriously considering getting the home media dvr. My only hesitation involves scrambled/enrcrypted content. Specifically, if my wife and/or I record a show and transfer it to our dvd recorder by playing the video back on the dvr and using s-video and rca outputs to the dvd recorder, what channels/broadcasts are encrypted that would prevent us from making a dvd? I.E. are premium channels, ppv, etc. this way. Thanks for any information and help.

Just to update, new HD channels are now available. Noticed them early this morning. I can only speak for the Philadelphia area (Glenside.)

And taken from Jeepmatt over at dslreports


Well, the day has finally arrived for VHO8. It seems we were given a "hybrid" of Phases today. So far, this is what we have received:

New Channels As of 4:50am

94 CBS College Sports
192 Current TV
193 Chiller
246 Blue Highway TV
247 RFD TV
277 CCTV-9
348 Indieplex
349 Retroplex
553 FX HD
568 WGN HD
572 ESPN News HD
583 Speed HD
617 Fox Biz HD
618 Fox News HD
629 Bio HD
650 QVC HD
651 HSN HD
668 Planet Green HD
670 Travel Channel HD
699 ABC Family HD
740 Hallmark Movie HD
744 MGM HD
780 Disney HD
781 Toon Disney HD
850 Encore HD
1001 HD PPV
1005 Hot Choice PPV

And now here is what is NOT LIVE, however is showing as "Coming Soon" in the IMG

558 ES.tv
87 / 587 NHL Network
89 / 589 NBA TV HD
599 Cars.tv
633 Pets.tv
674 MyDestn.tv
676 Recipe.tv
682 Crime & Investigation HD
695 Comedy.TV
1474 NHL Center Ice HD
1489 NBA League Pass HD
1490-99 NBA League Pass

I was aware that NHL Network and NBA TV were not going to be ready today, however they are a priority and "should" show up in the near term.

Not sure why C&I HD is not up today on 682 (this is the only "surprise"), and we also did not receive any of the 6 "Byron Allen" HD channels that were in the DC/MD lineup as Coming Soon. Also, it appears that NBA League Pass, and the Game HD channels for it and Center Ice are not live either.

So, in the end - 8 new SD channels, 17 new HD channels (bringing us to 104), and 1 HD PPV channel. Which, I guess brings us to 105.

Enjoy VHO8!

Hi all. I upgraded to the triple freedom this afternoon; extreme hd, 20/5 internet, but I waited on the phone for half an hour for a rep to pick up. Within an hour, everything activated. Quick question though, I got the bundle terms of service via e-mail. When I clicked the link to accept, I entered my verizon user name and password, and clicked next, but got the error message in the attached picture? Should I bother calling since it says tos already accepted for this account? I believe this is for my previous bundle which I signed up for in June 08 and signed a 2 year deal. Thanks for any advice.

Maybe the TOS is the same? If you got the email and things got activated, you're in the system. Go into your Verizon account and check your order status. You should see the entries for your new changes with percent complete. I think the order status is only updated once a day, after midnight, so you might not see anything until tomorrow. It took over a week for my phone service to switch over to Verizon from another provider. If nothing is happening after a few days, then give them a call.

Just got my first bill for the bundle. Expect to see partial month charges for the change-over. At least it's got everything correct. Except my "free" digital adapters. The rep said they were tagged as free, but I think I got charged for them during the partial month. He convinced me to wait another month to see how things settle out. I'll wait to see what a full month's bill looks like. I can always get credit later.

So I see FIOS in Malvern, PA got some more channels, as my TiVo updated last night. However, some of them (like the Travel Channel HD) are still dead, while others (Disney HD) are active. Are they live, yet? How can I tell if I have 'extreme hd', as it sounds like a package activated after I got my service?

Versus-HD (590) is one of the Extreme HD channels. If you have it, you're subscribed. You should be able to get just about all the HD channels. The other way to check is to login to your Verizon account as see what you subscribed to. If you did a recent upgrade, check your order status.

slightly ot... anyone experiencing internet outages this morning? just checking before i go through the fun of calling customer service.

Versus-HD (590) is one of the Extreme HD channels. If you have it, you're subscribed. You should be able to get just about all the HD channels. The other way to check is to login to your Verizon account as see what you subscribed to. If you did a recent upgrade, check your order status.

Nope, no upgrade. TiVo just started listing more channels, so I was curious, since almost all of them are just blank (which has happened before, when new channels get introduced). I'd heard people mention 'extreme HD' and was worried there was some new, separate tier. Is it just a sports package?

Nope. IMHO, it's a forced upgrade. Check this sticky over on DSL reports: http://www.dslreports.com/forum/r21263024-Extreme-HD-and-Essentials-Information
Check out one of the bundle packages. You might save a few $$$ over what you have now. Also, scan the DSL Reports Verizon FiOS forum for more info: http://www.dslreports.com/forum/vzfiostv

I went from the Premiere package bundle to the Extreme HD bundle yesterday and saved over $5.00 a month with my internet going from 15/2 to 20/5 to boot. I like paying less for more. I had only signed up for the old Premiere bundle two months ago. Also, there are 9 new HD channels in the guide listed as coming soon already which when added, will bring the HD total to 113.

Are any others with the Extreme HD package receiving "Currently Unavailable" on Travel Channel HD (670)? I'm having no issue with all the other channels that were added. I called Veriozn about it and they have someone looking into it, but I read that others in the Philly area are receiving this channel with no problems.

I get the "currently available" all the time on numerous SD and HD channels. extremely annoying. Have spoken to Verizon numerous times, no resolution yet.

I have had no issues whatsoever.

I get the "currently available" all the time on numerous SD and HD channels. extremely annoying. Have spoken to Verizon numerous times, no resolution yet.Ask them to reset your STB. It's does more than what you can yourself. Worth a shot.

Boxes have been reset by VZ numerous times, and have been exchanged for the new 7200 series as well. Also have reset the interface outside the house. Still getting the damn message.

Let's go from the ridiculous to the sublime. I'll bet the STB diagnostics will show Poor SNR and AGC (low signal). A while back in this thread, someone (I can't remember) had a gradual degradation in PQ. Like over the period of a few weeks.

Long story short, it was a break in the coax from the ONT through the house entrance. As the weather got colder, the water in the coax froze and very slowly broke the connection. Not entirely, but enough to drop the signal level down. Since the channels are digital, you don't notice anything until it goes over the edge.

Have you looked really carefully at the coax coming into the house? Check for any stress or breaks at the connectors or cuts / sharp bends in the jacket. Especially around the home entrance. Any moisture that gets into the coax will expand as ice and cause really high RF losses in the signal path. You're not looking for a break per se, but for cracks and possible dampness or a deformed jacket. Check the integrity of the RF connector at the ONT (if you are comfortable doing that).

Each time that Verizon updates the Guide, several settings of the box gets reset to the default. I'd think they would be able to write the code to not have this happen when they introduce an update.

Each time that Verizon updates the Guide, several settings of the box gets reset to the default. I'd think they would be able to write the code to not have this happen when they introduce an update.

Specifically, the video output resolution and the audio volume (fixed/variable) along with setting the compression back to HEAVY.

What a pain in the a$$.

So is fios tv in Aston pa area yet?

i keep getting the flyer in the ,mail but when i go to the site it still says \not available.

also are there any hd channels that are on comcast that havent been added to v-fios yet?

Here is the SE Pa list. Compare it to Comast.

http://www.dslreports.com/r0/download/1371537~bc94768619379bf7df41e1466439c495/Philly%20Lineup.pdf

Hi all. I also posted this at dslreports, but since this is a local forum I am wishing for some local help :) Any advice, information, or a general sense of direction for me would be appreciated. Try to keep story short. Been fios bundle customer since June 08. Just upgraded to Extreme HD, 20/5 internet on Monday 11/17, so I have the bundled package that is 109.99 a month. Channels appeared and internet faster within an hour. Now begins the problem.

I got the terms of servie e-mail right after my phone call Monday evening. I clicked on the link and when logging I got an error message saying "TOS" for this account already accepted (see attached pic "tos accepted"). Kes and PSUMatt gave me advice on this, but with Verizon's reputation for things getting twisted I figured I would keep trying the link once a day. So on Friday, four days later, I get a different error message that says please call tech support and it give me an error code seen in the "error code" attached pic.

I called tech support at 8 this morning and the rep had no idea what the code means, but gave me a direct line to orders/billing. Guy there was helpful, we actually had a three way conversation with another, different tech person. Still not resolved. Tech says she has phone order in my name, tv, internet in wife's name, although all three were in her name before extreme upgrade. Give billing rep master order number, billing rep says he can't find a record of it. Tech rep says can't bundle because all three have to be in same name. Billing rep says on his end all three are in wife's name and he has the same master order number I wrote down when upgrading. Bottom line no one knows what's wrong and I technically haven't accepted the tos (I can't with the error). To add insult to injury, while on the phone, I get the reminder e-mail "25 days left to accept bundle discount." Of course link in that message gives me the error code message as well. Any other options left? I was thinking the direct forum, but am not sure. Thanks in advance.

Eric

Here is the SE Pa list. Compare it to Comast.

http://www.dslreports.com/r0/download/1371537~bc94768619379bf7df41e1466439c495/Philly%20Lineup.pdf

thanks.


swope, add a line break or a paragraph every few lines, please.

done.

The latest bundle discount with Extreme HD is $99. Just call the regular FiOS number nbd you should be able to switch to the new discount. I did and it was no issue.

Which bundle? I've got the Triple Play (Extreme HD, 20/5, Freedom Essentials) and it's still listing $109.99 on the web site.

I'm waiting for my latest bill to arrive to check to see if I was successful in changing everything over to the new nomenclature. I still think their implementation of this was very poorly done, and should have just been "delivered" to everyone that had a service with whatever name at the time. They could have simply sent a letter that told you that it was now going to be called Extreme HD, and they would add the movie package if you had it, while increasing your internet speed, all for $X.

hey guys, i have a question about my verizon fios service. ive had it for about 6th months maybe? i live in cherry Hill newjersey. i recently got a new HTPC, and with it a tuner. it is an asus my cinema 9400pe combo. it has both NTSC tuner and a ATSC/ClearQAM tuner. i have plugged my cable from the wall into each one and tried to setit up in media center, but have not been able to get anything. no SD, no HDTV (not even over the air) am i doing something wrong?

FiOS, as far as I know, is encrypted completely unlike my experience with Comcast. You need a cable box to view just about anything now, so running directly from the wall outlet won't get you any channels. You can get a free "digital adapter" if you don't want the high def channels.

hey guys, i have a question about my verizon fios service. ive had it for about 6th months maybe? i live in cherry Hill newjersey. i recently got a new HTPC, and with it a tuner. it is an asus my cinema 9400pe combo. it has both NTSC tuner and a ATSC/ClearQAM tuner. i have plugged my cable from the wall into each one and tried to setit up in media center, but have not been able to get anything. no SD, no HDTV (not even over the air) am i doing something wrong?

The FIOS service is 100% digital. The NTSC tuner won't do you any good. And after 2/17/09 even OTA channels will be digital. If you have a QAM tuner just do a scan and you should get quite a few QAM channels that are in a clear. Caveat is that they are the same channels that you can get OTA. FCC mandates that no cable provider is allowed to encrypt any channel that can be received OTA. Those channels usually are ABC, CBS, NBC, PBS, Fox, Qubo, local/community/educational programing and etc. You won't be able to receive any other channels.

FiOS, as far as I know, is encrypted completely unlike my experience with Comcast. You need a cable box to view just about anything now, so running directly from the wall outlet won't get you any channels. You can get a free "digital adapter" if you don't want the high def channels.

Comcast also going all digital so whatever you may have been able to get in a clear can be gone without any notice.

hey guys, i have a question about my verizon fios service. ive had it for about 6th months maybe? i live in cherry Hill newjersey. i recently got a new HTPC, and with it a tuner. it is an asus my cinema 9400pe combo. it has both NTSC tuner and a ATSC/ClearQAM tuner. i have plugged my cable from the wall into each one and tried to setit up in media center, but have not been able to get anything. no SD, no HDTV (not even over the air) am i doing something wrong?

I have a set top box made by Samsung that has a QAM tuner. I was able to get the local channels with it. My TV also has a QAM tuner, but it wasn't able to find any channels.

Anyone notice that NJT (515 in wynnewood) is finally being broadcast in HD? I noticed yesterday morning that Curious George was coming over in HD (well not the content, but the signal). Ihaven't really watched it at night to see if they actually have HD content, but hopefully they do.

Sorry if this is repetitive as I haven't been able to log in since early October

That's "curious"! :) I just checked it and it reads as 720p input.

The latest bundle discount with Extreme HD is $99. Just call the regular FiOS number nbd you should be able to switch to the new discount. I did and it was no issue.

I called up yesterday and switched to the new discount. I got the new HD channels, got some sports channels added, had the internet speed upgraded from 15 to 20 and got the package at 109.99, saving me about $80 or so a month.

Nice.

well i got my cable tuner to recive everything now, but only in the media suite that came with the tuner :confused: media center will not work. it seems to think that everyone uses an antena for d-tv?

Anyone notice that NJT (515 in wynnewood) is finally being broadcast in HD? I noticed yesterday morning that Curious George was coming over in HD (well not the content, but the signal). Ihaven't really watched it at night to see if they actually have HD content, but hopefully they do.

Sorry if this is repetitive as I haven't been able to log in since early October

No, that's great news... they finally fixed it. It wasn't broadcasting in HD even though it SAID it was an HD station. Very annoying, especially because usually there was something i wanted to watch on there.

My Comcast triple play plan is now expired here in S.Jersey so I've just started the process of switching over to FIOS.

They called it the Freedom Bundle along with the Extreme HD, Movie package with HBO/MAX and 20/5 Internet. $99.99 for that package, plus $14.99 for an HD DVR and a $5.99 box for my SD TV in the basement. Looks like about $120.99 plus fees and taxes. The movie package is $30 after the first 3 months free. Even if I keep that its still less then my Comcast bill for the next year.

Some minor customer support issues. I called the GET FIOS number as ordering online was an information overload. Still I was able to use it to get an idea of the different packages.

Even though I was a Verizon customer until a year ago, and am a current Verizon Wireless customer, they had no way of knowing who I was. The cs rep was unable to find my address at first. "Atlantic avenue, do you know how to spell Atlantic Ocean" I asked. She said yes, but no she didn't.

Things went pretty smoothly after that, until we got to the part where they wanted to do a credit check on me. I refused to give them my socsec#, but they were able to run a check anyway using my old address which I did give them. Why they had to bother at all I'm not sure. I bought a car a couple of months ago and my credit score is through the roof so it shouldn't be anything related to that. A mild annoyance.

Oh, and they couldn't tell me exactly how much those additional "fees" were since they're different in each location. I can buy the different part but not the "can't tell me" part. Don't want to or can't be bothered I do believe. Still I didn't call them on it since I saw no point in arguing.

Overall a relatively OK CS experience. Things got done without too much hassle which is the best you can hope for these days. I'll go online in a few days to see if my order is reasonably not screwed up.

Installation in two weeks, I can't wait. I saw the HD channel list which is all I really want to watch any more and I'm looking forward to it.

Done with Comcast and their "more HD channels then anyone else". I find their brainwash commercials ironic since that's exactly what they're trying to do, lol. Not looking forward to changing all my email links after 11 years with Comcast, which is IMO the biggest hassle with the change.

Not looking forward to changing all my email links after 11 years with Comcast, which is IMO the biggest hassle with the change.

I recommend switching to gmail so if you ever switch Internet providers again you won't change email addresses.

I second what bcarl said. I switched to gmail about 8 months ago to avoid the hassle of changing e-mail addresses, they are a pretty good service.