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.

Despite not actually seeing any HD content on 515 since I first noticed it was no longer SD, Sesame Street was broadcast in HD this morning on 515!

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.
Yeah, I just opened up a GMail account. Seems to work pretty good so far.

As for my Verizon order I did go online to check it out and it can't be found, lol. I guess I can hope that they didn't get it in on Wednesday, and being a holiday it won't be done until tommorow. So I'll check it out during the week.

Hi everyone. Today I called and ordered the mulit room/home media dvr service. I just checked my order status at verizon's website, and it says order date 12/1/08, it is completed as of 3:30 pm at 56%. However, it says due date 12/15/08. 2 weeks? Is that normal to activate this service, or is that just an exaggeration on the order status part so as to give them a decent time frame? They are sending me the box in the next 3 days, and from past experience it comes quickly. Any one else who has previously ordered this service remember how long your process took?

I'd like to add to Swope's question and ask about one's experience with the multi-room DVR. I presently have three high def and one high def DVR boxes, and need one more for a room expansion. Should I replace the DVR with a the newer media box?

I have two STB boxes I want to return. Because of a previous horrible experience with Verizon Fios billing, I want to physically hand over the boxes to a live person to make sure that their records are correctly updated. However according to the FIOS web site, there are no physical lcations in PA; the closest one to me appears to be in New Castle DE. Is this correct, do I really have to schlep 50 miles each way?

I have two STB boxes I want to return. Because of a previous horrible experience with Verizon Fios billing, I want to physically hand over the boxes to a live person to make sure that their records are correctly updated. However according to the FIOS web site, there are no physical lcations in PA; the closest one to me appears to be in New Castle DE. Is this correct, do I really have to schlep 50 miles each way?

I think you have to send by FedEx, Verizon'll pay for return. Call Verizon and tell them that you are sending the boxes back. Just hold on to your FedEx receipt with tracking numbers. That way you'll have an actual proof that you've send them back. You cannot return boxes to VZ in person like with Comcast. No reason to go to New Castle. They can't accept the boxes there.

Once they receive your boxes they'll be scanned and removed from your account.

Article in today's Philly Inquirer about yet another Comcast vs. Verizon smack down: http://www.philly.com/inquirer/business/homepage/20081206_Comcast_attacks_Verizon_s_HD_claims.html

If you only see the comments and not the article, click on the "Print This" icon near the top of the page.

I have two STB boxes I want to return. Because of a previous horrible experience with Verizon Fios billing, I want to physically hand over the boxes to a live person to make sure that their records are correctly updated. However according to the FIOS web site, there are no physical locations in PA; the closest one to me appears to be in New Castle DE. Is this correct, do I really have to schlep 50 miles each way?

Well, I drove down to New Castle today and exchanged my current STBs for a DVR.

From the Inquirer article:
"The data state that Comcast offers 1,304 HD choices overall and Verizon 1,057. In HD categories, Comcast says it has 224 HD movies, compared with 112 for Verizon; 423 HD music clips, compared with 197 for Verizon; 288 HD television shows, compared with 144 for Verizon, and so on."

Does anyone know what they are talking about with the garlic chopping program? Are these On Demand programs? I couldn't care how many high def music clips there are...I want HD programming. Verizon seems to be the leader here, and will for awhile.

Not listed in the data are HD channels, in which Verizon is a clear leader. It has 104 to Comcast's 37. "We kick them in the teeth," Mitchell said.

Comcast snorts that 20 of the Verizon HD channels are so marginal that they're not rated by Nielsen.
well boo friggity hoo comcast, even if they were to get rid of those 20 theyed still have twice as many as you!

well boo friggity hoo comcast, even if they were to get rid of those 20 theyed still have twice as many as you!

Twice? Try 4 times as many. 104 to 24 here.

"HD Choices"! What a joke! In Comcast's view a single On Demand program is equal to an HD Channel. Who buys this garbage?

"HD Choices"! What a joke! In Comcast's view a single On Demand program is equal to an HD Channel. Who buys this garbage?

The American public. Remember the saying: "there's a sucker born every minute"?

Agreed! Why do we have 1,000 channels to begin with? So that you can dial through them to realize there's nothing worth watching, but in high def, it's at least visually stimulating! ;)

Yep, true. I have culled my favorites list down to a handful of "content worthy" channels. Most of the rest (for me anyway) are just crap.

We have truly become a people who seem to value quantity over quality.

Ooooopppsssss. gotta run, there is a feature on untangling knots on "The Ball of String Channel - HD", that I just can't miss :)

Any Verizon guys still hanging around?

My Comcast Triple play "promotion" expired and they jacked my rates, big time.

I want to switch to FIOS, but I live in Abington, the Baederwood section, and am appararently in a FIOS black hole, thanks to the Jenkintown dialing prefix.

Any updates on when/if EVER service will be available? I have friends who live in Jenkintown/Rydal who have FIOS. Friends in Abington have FIOS.

But not us, and Verizon telephone customer service is clueless.
DirecTV is not an option, as I love the Phils and need SportsNet.

I have culled my favorites list down to a handful of "content worthy" channels.

Guess that's why they call it a favorites list.:rolleyes:

For you hockey fans, NHL Network on 587 is up and running. Also, the Center Ice channel is available for subscription. Not sure if other channels are now implemented...need to scan through to see.

I guess it was too much to hope that there would be an actual NHL game to watch. Just filler programming. MLB on 86 (SD) only.

Reruns of MLB to watch? Isn't that like watching paint dry? I'm sure we'll have the high def equivalent on air by the start of the season, if they have that available. Sort of like waiting for MSNBC to go high def!

Anything that was shown on the NHL network was letterboxed yesterday as I scanned through the channels. I'm waiting to see what quality they have in their telecasts for live games.

OK, first NHL Network HD game. Flames vs. Wings at the Joe. It's a pickup of the TSN feed. Some compression and definitely a step below Comcast HD. However, looks just fine for a rebroadcast. Nice change of pace and gives perspective on what the rest of the teams are doing. I like. :)

And, my first chance to complain that the IMG listing was wrong. Not to mention that the logo should be transparent instead of black. :p

Had some additional locations hooked up within my house, and the tech couldn't have been a nicer guy. Very accommodating, thorough with his work, and he told me that he is a Verizon employee. Even left his card with cell phone number in case I had a problem after installing the TVs to those areas. The techs seem to enjoy their work, which is all we could ask for as customers. Now, if the phone calls to Verizon could be worked out to easily speak to someone!

Hi, just wondering if anyone else got the same error I got on the www.verizon.com. I log into my verizon by going to sign in. I log in and when I am under the overview tab, I click "view phone plan details" which takes me to my home phone. In this page I click Add/Change features at the bottom under my phone capabilities. This used to give me the option to add calling features, etc. to my phone. Now I get this error page. If anyone else could try this and verify what you get I would really appreciate it as the CSRs are no help. Thanks.

Just tried it, and got a similar message to call the local office. I've had no luck at all with trying to do anything online with the Verizon website.

Making the move - part II

Verizon guy is here for my triple play install and seems to know what he's doing. My install should be pretty straightforward, as we'll be reusing the existing Comcast coax. He did have to leave to go to another site for an hour or two, but said he'd have no problem finishing today. I've got work to do anyway so no big deal.

Go FIOS!

Making the move - part III

OK its done. Pretty painless. Mostly just plugged into my existing Comcast hookups. I was surprised that everything just came up. Shouldn't be a surprise I guess, but everyone else that's ever hooked anything up for me has always had problems.

Only problem is that on demand premium channels say that I have to subscribe even though I am. It turns out they have to set that feature but didn't and now can't do it until my account is available to the customer service rep. So I have to call back tomorrow. I didn't think to ask why don't they just schedule it to be done without me needing to call. DOH!

The FIOS guide will take a bit to get used to. Not sure I like the way the favorites works. My early take is that the movie HD is definitely better quality, but I haven't had much of a chance to watch yet.

19.7 mbps download on some Speakeasy tests. Pretty cool.

...Only problem is that on demand premium channels say that I have to subscribe even though I am. It turns out they have to set that feature but didn't and now can't do it until my account is available to the customer service rep. So I have to call back tomorrow. I didn't think to ask why don't they just schedule it to be done without me needing to call. DOH!...19.7 mbps download on some Speakeasy tests.

I had the same issue w/sports channels. They told me the same thing that it would take "24 hours before the account would be available". Total BS - I spent hours and days trying to get it straightened out.

As for downloads, I'm getting the 20 download speeds on Speakeasy from the east coast sites (where I live) but only half that from west coast downloads.

...I didn't think to ask why don't they just schedule it to be done without me needing to call. DOH!....
Unfortunately, it is best to do that. Even asking them to call back doesn't work, so I've made it a point to be sure to call, hang on for what seems an eternity to 'talk' through their messaging center, and then screaming 'representative' into the phone at each prompt.

'agent' works much quicker.

I'll try that next time. I thought they asked the 'rep' question, but hey, I'll try anything other than the automated thing!

Hey guys-
Totally forgot this forum existed over here. Been hanging mainly over at DSL Reports.

Usually get a good heads-up of anything new coming for FIOS TV, so i'll keep you all informed.

Feel free to ask me any ?'s and i'll see what i can do.

Hey jeep, good to hear from ya. You've answered some of my questions over at dsl and I've read some of your posts, very informative. I have a quick question for you or anyone that may be able to help. I recently had the free WWE on Demand preview. I called Tuesday and cancelled. I called back to verify Thursday, all good, was removed. Tried to access it on my STB and it says you are not subscribed. I checked my account features using my verizon at www.verizon.com, and WWE on Demand was not listed.

However, if I log into Fios TV central, under my programming, current subscription, it still lists WWE on Demand. Will this eventually disappear from this site's listing, or should I post in verizon direct forum over at dsl to see if it can be removed? I'll attach an image of what I'm talking about.

Thanks Swope for the kind words... :D I try to pass on as much info i'm given as possible.

As far as TV Central - i've found that site to lag a few days to a week behind account changes. I'd wait it out a few days and see if it disappears.

If you can't access it via your STB - then it's definitely been removed.

Hard to believe but NBC-10 HD still can't handle overlays in HD.

This morning they're listing the school closings at the bottom and to do this they drop back into SD. The entire Today Show this morning has been in SD because of this. Earlier in the week, I noticed this happening when they show the DTV conversion information bar. And when break away to do the short weather update. So, it's not exactly stellar HD support from our local NBC station.

I did call it in as a problem to their tech/engineering department, left a voice mail. Not exactly expecting a phone call back but if I get one I'll let you know.

This surprises you? Why? They still don't have the evening news in HD - which local ABC/CBS has had... forever.

And... don't even get me started with that stupid logo. Almost as bad as FOX, which I refuse to watch :)

Thanks Swope for the kind words... :D I try to pass on as much info i'm given as possible.

As far as TV Central - i've found that site to lag a few days to a week behind account changes. I'd wait it out a few days and see if it disappears.

If you can't access it via your STB - then it's definitely been removed.

Thanks jeep. I had it removed Wednesday, so I'll wait till after Christmas and see what happens before I post at the direct forum.

This surprises you? Why? They still don't have the evening news in HD - which local ABC/CBS has had... forever.

And... don't even get me started with that stupid logo. Almost as bad as FOX, which I refuse to watch :)Yeah, you're right.

There are only three things that I watch on NBC: a half hour or so of the Today Show in the morning, Heroes, and the final season of ER. My main gripe was the drop to SD for overlays during the Today Show. So from my view, their conversion to HD did absolutely nothing.

...My main gripe was the drop to SD for overlays during the Today Show...

No gripe about the soft filtering used on Meredith Vieira?

I had the same issue w/sports channels. They told me the same thing that it would take "24 hours before the account would be available". Total BS - I spent hours and days trying to get it straightened out.

I finally got my On Demand subscriptions straightened out.

It took two days and talking to literally 9 different people. Each one asked for my phone number, name, address, and what my problem was. They have no way of transferring information between each other! I just find that amazing. I always considered the phone company (I still think of Verizon as THE phone company) to be capable and high tech, but I guess its more of a marketing firm these days.

And don't get me started as to why someone actually needs to check the On Demand subscription box when you subscribe to a premium channel. Shouldn't that at least be a default when you subscribe to premium channels?

Still, I'm extremely satisfied so far with the quality of the product. TV has so many channels I don't know what to watch or where to find the channels I'm looking for, lol. That's a good thing IMO. Picture quality on some stations is just amazing, and definitely better then anything Comcast has.

It took two days and talking to literally 9 different people. Each one asked for my phone number, name, address, and what my problem was. They have no way of transferring information between each other! I just find that amazing. I always considered the phone company (I still think of Verizon as THE phone company) to be capable and high tech, but I guess its more of a marketing firm these days.


Oh man... I'm having flashbacks of the last few times I had to call them. I think Verizon still thinks of themselves as the phone company, too.

It's hard to understand why they have so many different departments and third parties that don't have the ability communicate with each other. I have just FiOS TV and Internet but I've heard "You need to talk to the accounting department", "That's an online only deal and it's not available over the phone", "You have to talk to the GoDigital department", "That price is only available from a third party", "Oh, you need to talk to the FiOS department." Um... I just called the number on your website - if I only have FiOS why does the website give me a different number?

And no one ever seems really sure of the price I am paying. That's a bit troubling.

But I agree - the product is great and the price is so much better than Comcast. As long as those things remain the same (and I never make another account change) I will be satisfied.

I'm no longer keeping track of how many months I've been calling them to stop charging me for my 3 "free" digital adapters (DCT-700). They charge, I call, they credit, they say it's fixed and won't happen again. Just checked my online bill. It's back. :rolleyes:

They have such an opportunity to be a leader in customer satisfaction on top of the great word-of-mouth about FIOS. Shame. But that's Verizon and I guess they'll never change. Corporations suck!

Um... I just called the number on your website - if I only have FiOS why does the website give me a different number?

That reminds me. I didn't get any information on how to setup my voicemail. When I tried a search at Verizon central the only information I could find was for email. Its like they don't do telephones; there is apparently nothing about their phone service on Verizon central. Or at least I didn't find it, and believe me I looked.

I had to call up, and wonder of wonders the first support person I talked to was able to help me in no time at all. Still, it seems to me that it costs them more if I have to call up then if I just find the instructions on their web site. Weird.

It's called Home Voice Mail: http://www22.verizon.com/ResidentialHelp/Phone/Calling+Features/Home+Voice+Mail/Home+Voice+Mail.htm

Follow through on the Quick Start Guide which brings you here: http://www22.verizon.com/ResidentialHelp/Phone/Calling+Features/Home+Voice+Mail/Questions+and+Answers/96579.htm

The "access number" is your home phone number. I'd suggest to change your password ASAP since it defaults to the last 4 digits of your phone number.

I'm no longer keeping track of how many months I've been calling them to stop charging me for my 3 "free" digital adapters (DCT-700). They charge, I call, they credit, they say it's fixed and won't happen again. Just checked my online bill. It's back. :rolleyes:

I'm on my third month of billing. I am still getting charged & credited for mine.

Every month I expect something to go wrong... but not yet. Of course, now that I said that - my January bill will be screwed :)

So, not much going on around here for the last two weeks, so I'll just wish you all a Happy New Year...Go Lions!!!

Happy New Year back to you Jim!

And Happy New Year to everyone!

Same here. Happy New Year to everyone! Go Flyers! And of course...E-A-G-L-E-S!

...And of course...E-A-G-L-E-S!
Yes, am too caught up in tomorrow afternoon's battle! Eagles will win easily, but I'm not too sure my Lions will do that with USC!

Looks like a contractor for Verizon has been laying fiber in my neighborhood (Upper Pottsgrove PA) and so I should have options soon and wanted to find out how the Clear QAM channels are on Fios? Comcast only has the locals and I also had UHD until I down sized to the basic plan and I now no longer get UHD even and they started encrypting the music channels awhile back.

Also is there a site like the one listed below that show all the channels Fios is sending out or does this site show both Comcast Cable and Fios?

http://www.silicondust.com/hdhomerun/lineupui?Cmd=LocationProgramsWeb&Country=US&Postcode=19464

I use the HD DVR on my primary TV, but I use QAM for the locals in HD on my second TV. On my second TV, I am also using the digital converter that Verizon was giving away when I signed up. Basically I get the locals and the music channels in QAM. I also get a lot of the locals that appear to be analog channels converted to digital - I wouldn't be surprised if they disappear soon. Here's the list of channels that are currently available to me via QAM:

3.1 KYW (HD)
6.1 WPVI (HD)
6.2 WPVI-2
6.3 WPVI-WX
10.1 WCAU (HD)
10.2 WX-PLUS
12.1 WHYY (HD)
12.2 Y ARTS
12.3 WHYY-3
17.1 WPHL (HD)
17.2 WPHLDT2
29.1 WTXF (HD)
31.2 QUBO
31.3 Ion Life
31.4 Worship
35.1 WYBE
39.3 V-ME
39.4 PBS Create
52.1 NJN (HD)
52.2 NJN2
55.100 WGN
57.1 WPSG (HD)
63.1003 KYW
63.1006 WPVI
63.1010 WCAU
63.1012 WHYY
63.1015 WTXF
63.1016 WPSG
63.1017 WPHL
63.1059 PCN
64.1013 WFMZ
64.1018 Ion Life
64.1019 WMCN
64.1023
64.1026 (something in Spanish)
64.1027 (something in Spanish)
64.1035 MIND
65.1039 PBS 39
65.1047 (religious)
66.101 TV Listings
66.103
66.158 The Weather Channel
66.408 – 66.454 Music
84.750 – 84.799 Music
87.512 On Demand previews
87.513 Expo
108.325 MTV
122.506 Go Digital warning message
123.469

I'm watching the outdoor hockey game on NBC. I could have sworn the pre-game was in HD. Then WCAU put up a scrolling message about DTV and the picture changed to SD. Now the message is gone, but the picture is still in SD. The audio also switched from Dolby Digital to stereo. I hope this gets fixed soon.

NBC 10 can not do an HD overlay, so when they insert their graphics it switches to SD. They do the sdame thing during NHL games they carrry when they run a scroll for Flyer tickets. They really know how to ruin the HD hockey experience. But they love their weather team!

Update: it stayed that way for about 15 minutes, but it's fixed now.

I'd like to add to Swope's question and ask about one's experience with the multi-room DVR. I presently have three high def and one high def DVR boxes, and need one more for a room expansion. Should I replace the DVR with a the newer media box?

I did not see anyone respond to this. I was considering this as well and was interested in any feedback on what types of experiences people have had on the home media dvr. Also, on a separate note, I have two Scientific Atlanta HD DVR boxes now and I guess Verizon has completely switched over to Motorola. Two questions ~ 1) Is the home media dvr compatible from the Motorola to the Scientific Atlanta box 2) Any feedback (positive/negative) on the performance of the Motorola boxes vs. Scientific Atlanta?

BoSox-
I'm a bit confused by your question. VZ has NEVER used SA Boxes on their network. It's been Moto since Day 1.

JimHef-

You don't need to "replace" the DVR to get the Home Media / Multi-Room functionality. All you do is call in, they push a software update to the box, and BOOM - you have multi-room capability.

Personally, I love the MR-DVR. Being able to watch HD programming on the tv in the bedroom off of the DVR downstairs is fantastic. Plus, the ability to program the DVR on the VZ TV Central website rocks as well. Totally worth the $4/mo investment. Also, during my Christmas party - I streamed a photo loop from my computer to the TV with holiday tunes in the background. Nothing earth-shattering, but folks thought it was cool.

BoSox-
I'm a bit confused by your question. VZ has NEVER used SA Boxes on their network. It's been Moto since Day 1.

JimHef-

You don't need to "replace" the DVR to get the Home Media / Multi-Room functionality. All you do is call in, they push a software update to the box, and BOOM - you have multi-room capability.

Personally, I love the MR-DVR. Being able to watch HD programming on the tv in the bedroom off of the DVR downstairs is fantastic. Plus, the ability to program the DVR on the VZ TV Central website rocks as well. Totally worth the $4/mo investment. Also, during my Christmas party - I streamed a photo loop from my computer to the TV with holiday tunes in the background. Nothing earth-shattering, but folks thought it was cool.

jeepmatt -

That's what I get for posting after midnight ~ obviously I'm confused as well ~ no more posting after midnight :D Actually, what I meant is have the "older" version of the Motorola set top box (6416) ~ is this compatible with the current home media dvr? I understand it's just a firmware upgrade but I wasn't sure if the older models could stream or not or if I had to swap out the boxes.

Thanks

I have the 64XX box now, but thought the newer DVRs would be the 72XX series. The installation tech told me that they were having problems with the new boxes, and only are installing the 64XX box at the present time. JeepMatt, thanks for the response...I'll consider that update.

Hey guys-
No problem!

BoSox - yep, either DVR can handle the Multi-room functionality. Either the 6416, or the 7216.

I actually got a 7216 HD-DVR and 7100 HD box with my install back in August. The 7100 has ZERO issues. Now, the 7216 has some well-documented problems, most notably with the 2-3 audio drops via optical output when changing a channel or starting a recorded program. Many people here or on DSL Reports also witness a "Channel Unavailable" bug, but I really haven't run into that. Those problems are being addressed in the next software update (1.7) - but i'm unsure when that will be rolled out.

Hef- that's probably the reason the tech told you that they're holding back on installing more 7216's...

I guess it was too much to hope that there would be an actual NHL game to watch. Just filler programming. MLB on 86 (SD) only.

When the press release came out, it indicated that we would also get MLB on HD (586 was the channel suggested in the november press release -http://mlb.mlb.com/news/press_releases/press_release.jsp?ymd=20081110&content_id=3672475&vkey=pr_mlbcom&fext=.jsp&c_id=mlb)

Anyone know if this is actually happening? MLB is showing replays of the playoffs this weekend and I can't watch it in SD!

There's on-going discussions in DSL Reports that it's in the works, but not 1/1 http://www.dslreports.com/forum/r21330503-FiOS-adding-NHL-Network-NBA-TV-or-MLB-Network~start=280 (you can also search the forum: http://www.dslreports.com/forum/vzfiostv)

the 7216 has some well-documented problems, most notably with the 2-3 audio drops via optical output when changing a channel or starting a recorded program. Many people here or on DSL Reports also witness a "Channel Unavailable" bug, but I really haven't run into that.

Matt,

I have the audio drop problem on my 7216 connected via HDMI. And, like you, I do NOT have the Channel Unavailable bug. The 7216 has been pretty solid otherwise.

Fingers crossed for the fixes in 1.7... and for that U/G to happen sooner, rather than later.

Hey kids-
I'm still trying to nail down the details..but looks like the next rollout of any channels will be NBA TV (SD/HD), Golf HD, and the NBA League Pass channels - starting around 1/19 (national start date), but not sure when our VHO falls on the list. I'll let you know as soon as I do.

In regards to the ? on MLB HD - it was not a contractual requirement for VZ to have the HD version on at launch. It's in their plans - no worries. :cool:

For the record, WYSP 94.1 FM Eagles game audio was about 2 S ahead of the play calling today on WTXF-HD (513). Next up, the Giants!! :rolleyes:

Yes, I've given up trying to listen to Merrill and just accept the play calling from the TV booth. Buck and Aikman aren't bad, and they didn't interject any anti-Eagles stuff into their commentaries.

I queue up the DVR... let it record the first 20 minutes or so of the game. Then I put on some music and watch. The 20 minute buffer allows me to skip most/all of the commercials.

Nothing against any of the announcers, but it gets annoying after a while. I find that watching a game against background music is pretty cool :) The Eagles rode to glory this week on top of Heart's "Dreamboat Annie", Pink Floyd's "Animals" and Amy Weinhouse's "Back to Black".

Now, I need to choreograph for the upcoming Giant's game :)

Put Another Brick In The Wall on a loop, and hope the game goes that way for the Birds!!!

Hi everyone. I have an mr dvr, 6416 series, an hd box 6200 series, an a regular stb. Last night I experienced the dreaded unable to locate hub error while streaming to my hd box. It was really annoying, did it at least 6 times during a 2 hour recording. I know it's a known issue, but is there any kind of wokaround? I read about getting to the first commercial and then starting the recording over and it doesn't do it. If not, I may consider paying the extra $ for another hd dvr for the time being until it's fixed. Thanks for any information or help.

Swope-

Luckily (and i'm probably cursing myself), I have the 7216 DVR with a 7100 HD box, and have NEVER had the "Hub" error message.

Based on your post, and many on DSL Reports, i'm thinking it's a 6xxx series software issue.

The latest on 1.6.1 or even 1.7 is that there aren't even rollout dates yet (yes, I know...not good). This even after 4+ months of knowing there are issues.

It might be more prudent to wait for them to fix the issues with the 72XX box rather than wait for Guide software rollouts.

Like last week, WYSP 94.1 FM Eagles game audio was about 2 S ahead of the play calling today on WTXF-HD (513). Will continue the test next week !!!

Looks like there was a battle in master control during the 4th quarter as the game suddenly went to commercial and back a few times. Payback from a Giants fan? :)

I bet your right maybe Jack Bower had to take out a couple Gnats fans in the control room.

Yes, I've given up trying to listen to Merrill and just accept the play calling from the TV booth. Buck and Aikman aren't bad, and they didn't interject any anti-Eagles stuff into their commentaries.

For me 94.1 and the TV broadcast lined up pretty nice. I don't really mind the national telecasts though some of my buddies really get bent out of shape over them. Still I prefer Merrill Reese. Once the game is in the bag I like to tune back to the national feed and bask in the kudos.

I do find it annoying to talk to my buddy on the phone during the game. He sees the play like 3 seconds earlier on SD then I do on HD, and is already cheering or yelling when I see the ball just getting snapped. Used to be the other way around when were both on Comcast.

The Super Bowl is there for the taking. Amazing! :)

WYSP 94.1 FM Eagles game audio was still about 2 S ahead of the play calling today on WTXF-HD (513). Aggghhh!!!! :mad: Don't know how else to put it. That's the end of testing for this year. :(

...The Super Bowl is there for the taking....
Thanks for jinxing us!!! I was also overconfident for this game...too bad since the Turnpike Bowl would have been fun to watch! :o

Not sure if this has been broached before.

FYI: I have Verizon FIOS thru two cable cards and a TiVo HD box. I do not have my monitor (SONY XBR 32" LCD) or the TiVo stretch the image preferring to have the OAR come through whether with bars to sides or top/bottom depending on signal.

Issue: I've noticed that TNT HD appears to "force" a stretch for images that are clearly 16:9 putting in slender bars at top and bottom. This appears to be the only station that does this, though perhaps TBS HD does as well. I haven't checked as yet.

Could someone tell me what's up with that?! Makes no sense at all to me. The image also feels a little distorted and maybe blown up - perhaps this is only perceptual. I'm wracking my brain and coming up with no good answers. Help! :confused: :mad:

Not sure if this has been broached before.

FYI: I have Verizon FIOS thru two cable cards and a TiVo HD box. I do not have my monitor (SONY XBR 32" LCD) or the TiVo stretch the image preferring to have the OAR come through whether with bars to sides or top/bottom depending on signal.

Issue: I've noticed that TNT HD appears to "force" a stretch for images that are clearly 16:9 putting in slender bars at top and bottom. This appears to be the only station that does this, though perhaps TBS HD does as well. I haven't checked as yet.

Could someone tell me what's up with that?! Makes no sense at all to me. The image also feels a little distorted and maybe blown up - perhaps this is only perceptual. I'm wracking my brain and coming up with no good answers. Help! :confused: :mad:

I think they are using the zoom mode that stretches the sides and leaves the middle alone. The theory is that you get the best of both worlds: the main subject (in the center of the screen) is in the correct aspect ratio and the picture also fills the screen. However, I don't know of anyone who actually likes to watch video in that format. It just looks weird. Especially when the camera pans to the sides.

Why the heck are THEY imposing a Zoom mode. That's absurd. This should be strictly an end user choice. Letting us make the selection as to how we wish to view it. For some of these shows the resulting image if broadcast properly WOULD fill the screen at 16:9. I'm really not getting this. Management over there just has not got a clue, know what I mean? :(

If it's a movie that was shot at 1.85:1, there will be small bars at top and bottom of the 16:9 screen (1.78:1).

Philly city council just approved FiOS!! http://www.kyw1060.com/Council-Committee-OKs-Verizon-s-TV-Plan/3707757

My parents live in Philly and they don't subscribe to cable. Guess this means they won't subscribe to FiOS, either. :p

Hi everyone. Since I have had Fios, I have been enrolled in paperless billing. Today, for the first time, I also received a paper bill in the mail. My paperless statement arrived online also. When I check the website it says "you are currently enrolled in our paperless billing program and auto pay." Has anyone else had this happen to them?

...Guess this means they won't subscribe to FiOS, either. :p
Probably not, at least for awhile. It's almost criminal that a service like this has been held up for so long due to city politics. I've been following this since the beginning, and they should have been up and running by now instead of just arguing about what the company will give free to the city.

Probably not, at least for awhile. It's almost criminal that a service like this has been held up for so long due to city politics. I've been following this since the beginning, and they should have been up and running by now instead of just arguing about what the company will give free to the city.

Ahhh... Politics at its best. Its not what I can do for the people, its what right people can do for me.:rolleyes:

Thanks to the IMG guide error, I almost missed tonight's Manchester Monarchs vs. Philly Phantoms (AHL) on Comcast Sportsnet HD. IMG says "NBA Basketball - no description". I say "IMG description - no clue".

The Guide was absent mid day today, so perhaps that's what fouled up the description. I went to see if there were any messages, but there were none. Maybe a maintenance flush of the system?

I posted this on the Programming section, but thought I would here also, in case there's some soccer fans in the area:
I think I have figured out the problem with Fox Soccer, and has been reported with GOLTV, regarding the amazingly poor quality of the picture on these channels. Today, I turned on Comcast Sports Net, a high def channel that is very good quality. They had an English soccer match on, and it was unwatchable. Europe, and I assume Australia/New Zealand, use PAL which has 576 lines, and broadcast at 50Hz. My conjecture is that these matches, being broadcast on European equipment, need so much processing that by the time they reach us, they are totally scrambled in appearance. Make sense???

Are y'all going to cheer for the other PA team, or are you going with the team that didn't let the Eagles get to Tampa???

Go Steelers! I'd like them to have more wins than the stinkin' Cowboys!!!

I have too many friends that are Steelers fans... If my team can't win then I don't want theirs to win either! :)

Deer Steelers,

Can you please thoroughly crush, humiliate, and pound the Cards all the way back to Phoenix running with their tails between their legs?

Thank you,

The Eagles :p

Well, a great game, but certainly not the outcome many expected. The Cards beat the Eagles, and damn near won the whole thing except for that spectacular catch at the end. The Cards proved that our side of the league was more than just competitive!!!

Latest info is that Golf HD will go live on Channel 593 on 2/11 out of our VHO.

No other channels at this time (this was the part of the news I didn't like).

Fingers crossed for that :)

There are some very good tourneys coming up on the west coast swing that I am looking forward to in HD!!!

There was a message today that stated that the Varsity channel was eliminated from the SD tier...never watched it. Anyone know what it was???

Mayor Nutter Must Sign 15-Year Franchise Agreement Into Law Before Telco Can Compete In Comcast's Backyard

http://www.multichannel.com/article/173677-Philly_Council_OKs_Verizon_FiOS_TV.php?rssid=20059




AlRight now :)

KYW 1060 AM didn't mention anything about the Mayor needing to approve it. http://www.kyw1060.com/Phila--City-Council-Approves-Verizon-s-Cable-Franc/3795030

Considering that Nutter was the one who pushed for Fios in the city I'd say that it will if not already approved.

Now that the Verizon FIOS TV franchise charter has been approved for the city of Philadelphia, any word on how quickly deployment might happen for parts of center city that ALREADY have FIOS Internet available?

As I understand it, particularly in multi-unit buildings, they have to change out the optical network termination box shared by all the units currently getting FIOS Internet. Presumably at that point it would be nothing more than moving the coax feed to each unit from the Comcast distribution box to the new Verizon distribution box.
--Bob

Bob,

I've found DSL Reports Forums to be pretty much "on the pulse" of what's going with FIOS. Here's the link to the Phila thread:

http://www.dslreports.com/forum/r21883120-Fios-coming-to-Philly

As for the existing buildout... I'd suspect that in many of the multi-unit buildings, the coax might be older and in need of upgrading to RG6. That could prove problematic to roll out. But, essentially once the head ends get the gear to pump the video down the fiber, they are good to go, where the existing fiber is already in place.

Steve, I'm not sure that would be a problem if it's not RG-6. Most of my home is older RG-59, and the signal is strong and clear, even with long runs without an amplification device.

Possibly Jim. I have an old RG-59 run, buried in the walls going to the third story of my house. I get a pretty good signal at the end of that run.

It might be different in multi-unit buildings, though. Those older RG-59 runs are probably a little longer than ours :)

Yes, distance is going to make a difference with the older cable, but I think it could be compensated for with some amplifiers on the signal. The problem would be how they ran the cabling to begin with...is it daisy-chained from unit to unit for an older "central antennae" style system.

As was expected, Golf HD is now live on 593 in VHO8 (DE/PA/South Jersey).

Also, look for new "games" to show up via the IMG menu next week.

Bob,

I've found DSL Reports Forums to be pretty much "on the pulse" of what's going with FIOS. Here's the link to the Phila thread:

http://www.dslreports.com/forum/r21883120-Fios-coming-to-Philly

As for the existing buildout... I'd suspect that in many of the multi-unit buildings, the coax might be older and in need of upgrading to RG6. That could prove problematic to roll out. But, essentially once the head ends get the gear to pump the video down the fiber, they are good to go, where the existing fiber is already in place.
For multi-unit buildings already served by FIOS internet in Center City, my understanding is that they have to start by replacing the optical network termination box that is shared by all the accounts in that building. The newer, higher speed box -- I believe Giga-Pon is the name or something like that -- allows both for FIOS TV and for the several higher speed FIOS Internet tiers that are currently not available in those buildings (e.g., 20/20 or 50/20). The internet then goes over copper wire to each unit (VDSL) and the FIOS-TV would presumably feed into the existing coax to each unit now in place for Comcast cable. I.e., move that coax plug from the Comcast distribution box to the FIOS TV distribution box.

That said, I *THINK* the head-end and neighborhood distribution stuff is already able to handle FIOS-TV. So you'd think they'd be able to start selling FIOS-TV to these existing FIOS-Internet customers fairly quickly. No need to wait for new fiber to be run outside or inside for example.
--Bob

So, the ONT is a multi-user device?

I'm not sure,but 'm guessing that the the coax feed would supply both the internet and TV, just like it does in a single unit. You need the Actiontek or whatever router they supply, for MOCA - to get the IMG and VOD.

That would mean a coax home run connection to each unit in the building, probably with some amplification system for the longer runs.

I'm not at all sure of this now.

Go over to the DSL Reports Verizon FiOS forum and search on "MDU install". Here's one example (but it doesn't have much detail): http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,20895511

Also try searching the Verizon Fiber Optics forum, here's one with photo's: http://www.dslreports.com/forum/remark,17850670

That might not answer your question directly, but you can probably scrape enough info from the searches to get a decent idea.

Anyone seeing new services with PSIP on a QAM TV. WFMZ and others that were just 63.xxx and 64.xxx

New firmware should be out to our VHO on 3/10.

Shhhhhh.... :cool:

new firmware should be out to our vho on 3/10.

Shhhhhh.... :cool:

vho8?:)

For the first time ever, there's no charge for my "free" digital adapters. This was month 7 to get it corrected.

Based on performance, it takes 7 months to fix a billing problem.

Congrat's, one for GG.

Hello All
We have recently signed up for fios tv. We have had fios internet/phone since it was available back in Jan-07. Tv was not available through fiber but they did offer directv which we did not want due to no CSN. So we stayed with comcast cable tv. The Fios TV install part is due in March 09.
When the Fios internet was installed the ONT was put in the basement about 3 feet away from the cable 4 way splitter. The question is can the Fios TV be split into the existing homerun coax or does it have to come from the ActionTec Router on the first floor family room.
Regards
Owenf

I also had FIOS Internet installed for over a year before TV service. With Internet service, I just had an ethernet cable coming from the ONT to my Actiontec router. When FIOS TV was installed, the tech unhooked the comcast feed and connected the coax directly to the ONT. That was sufficient to give all my televisions the full range of digital channels.

However, in order to receive the advanced features of FIOS TV, including the interactive guide, video-on-demand, and the Media Network DVR, the tech had to run a separate coax line from the ONT to my Actiontec router. So now I have both coax and ethernet cables connected between the ONT and router. The rest of my house coax wiring did not require modification.

The tech originally thought that the advanced TV features would work without the coax cable to the router, but he wasn't able to get it to work that way. I suspect that the ethernet cable is superfluous now, but I haven't tried disconnecting it.

Did anyone dial into the Center Ice channels this weekend to see the picture quality? It was worse than the Fox Soccer channel, and you could hardly see the puck due to the out of focus, dull picture that appeared to be a stretched SD broadcast. Simply awful!

Look for MLB Network HD to go live for our area on Channel 586 next Tuesday, 3/3.

It went live today in TX and MD areas...

When the Fios internet was installed the ONT was put in the basement about 3 feet away from the cable 4 way splitter. The question is can the Fios TV be split into the existing homerun coax or does it have to come from the ActionTec Router on the first floor family room.
Regards
Owenf

Owen,

The techs will run coax from the ONT to the splitter. From the splitter, 1 coax run will go to the Actiontec, the remaining runs will go to wherever you have STB's.

Owen,

The techs will run coax from the ONT to the splitter. From the splitter, 1 coax run will go to the Actiontec, the remaining runs will go to wherever you have STB's.

Well currently the ONT only has one coax port which goes directly to the ActionTec Router. The RJ45 port is open. Is the current cabling sufficient ? From what I have been reading it only looks like the router needs to be in the coax loop but if I need a CAT5/6 cable from the ONT to Router then this needs to be done before Verizon comes.( On initial install I ran the cabling in house due to fishing wall complications) Thanks for all input/recommendations.
Regards
Owenf

Yes, you are also going to need a Cat5 cable to the router. Verizon can install that, or if you are more comfortable because of your need to fish the cable, do it yourself.

Hey guys-

They're working through some things at the VHO, so the MLB HD launch has been pushed out until next Monday (3/9).

On Tuesday, 3/10, you should wake up to the 1.6.2 firmware on your STB's.

Thanks jeepmatt!

Hey guys-

They're working through some things at the VHO, so the MLB HD launch has been pushed out until next Monday (3/9).

On Tuesday, 3/10, you should wake up to the 1.6.2 firmware on your STB's.

Will the new firmware fix 1. the "currently unavailable" message and 2. the closed captions randomly turning on? Two very annoying ongoing problems.

Will the new firmware fix 1. the "currently unavailable" message and 2. the closed captions randomly turning on? Two very annoying ongoing problems.

Schlitzie-

#1 - Yes

#2 - Never saw that happen, so cannot comment.

Maybe I'll be able to watch SD channels now.

Why would you want to do that with all the wonderful stuff we have now? I know, I do also, for those few channels that aren't covered yet in high def...MSNBC, I'm waiting patiently!

Exactly. MSNBC and Discovery Health.

As I mentioned last week, MLB HD went live this morning on 586.

Enjoy!

Also, 1.6.2 remains on schedule for tomorrow. Check out the "1.6.2 Release" thread over on DSL Reports to see my summary of what I felt has been "fixed".

As I mentioned last week, MLB HD went live this morning on 586.

Still don't have it here (Burlington County NJ)

MLB's picture quality is quite good, however this afternoon's game is 4:3, and even with that, it still looks nice.

HD looks fine. :)

All STBs updated. Haven't had a chance to try HD Streaming yet to see if the no hub error still happens, but I am optimistic after reading reports at dsl reports.

Lots of channels have their logos now in the guide. I did notice CW philly and MLB HD didn't have logos, any others people noticed?

I also have the the home media dvr and media manager installed on my computer, version 9.2.4. I was not previously subscribed to the internet video trial, and I didn't notice a tab for streaming videos from the pc to stb.

Just my observations.

Swope-

Same here with CW and MLB HD logos.

I'm figuring since they just added MLB HD yesterday, they still have to update the logo table for that.

Not sure about CW HD - I noticed all the logos come in over the weekend.

Heads up for an awesome night time shuttle launch! Tomorrow! http://www.nasa.gov/mission_pages/shuttle/main/

NOT in the IMG guide search, but listed if you advance manually in the guide. Launch at 9:20 PM ET.

Wed, Mar 11 - 9:00 PM ET , 6:00 PM PT
NASA on HDNet - LIVE!
Space Shuttle Discovery STS-119 Launch - Live coverage of the launch of Shuttle Discovery, lifting off from Cape Canaveral's launch pad 39A. During the two-week mission -- STS 119 -- astronauts will deliver the final power module to the International Space Station, boosting the station to full power.

Thu, Mar 12 - 12:00 AM ET , Wed, Mar 11 - 9:00 PM PT
NASA on HDNet
Space Shuttle Discovery STS-119 Launch - Live coverage of the launch of Shuttle Discovery, lifting off from Cape Canaveral's launch pad 39A. During the two-week mission -- STS 119 -- astronauts will deliver the final power module to the International Space Station, boosting the station to full power.
Special Encore Presentation

Great heads up...thanks for that! I'll be needing to crank up the sound to test the new subwoofers in my system!

Jim - the sound on the last launch they broadcast was not so great. The picture was excellent, but sound left a lot to be desired. I cranked it up, almost to reference level to "feel" the launch... ho-hum!

and, with the announcers feeling compelled to continually chatter back & forth, that kind of spoiled the audio too. Quite a shock when they keep speaking (at high volume) :)

That said... it's definitely worth watching!!!

It was just posted in the programming thread that the launch was postponed to tomorrow evening at 8:54PM due to a tank leak. Reprogram those DVRs folks!

Too bad about the sound, but I guess that makes sense, although they could shut up for a few seconds to get us the booming audio!!!

:(

STS-119 to Launch No Earlier Than Sunday
Wed, 11 Mar 2009 06:36:03 PM EDT

Space shuttle Discovery’s launch to the International Space Station now is targeted for no earlier than March 15. NASA managers postponed Wednesday’s planned liftoff due to a leak associated with the gaseous hydrogen venting system outside the external fuel tank. The system is used to carry excess hydrogen safely away from the launch pad.

Liftoff on March 15 would be at 7:43 p.m. EDT. The exact launch date is dependent on the work necessary to repair the problem. Managers will meet Thursday at 4 p.m. to further assess the troubleshooting plan.

Thanks, saves me from programming the DVR again without the benefit of seeing what I wanted! Funny though, if they are going to broadcast the event, you would think that the Guide would be updated to show that instead of a different program.

Keep us posted!

For those FIOS TV customers in Delaware, I received word that MASN HD will go live the week of 3/24....

Phillies vs. Cards on WPHL-17 with Harry and Wheels in glorious widescreen. Flyers vs. Rangers on NBC. At the same time. :p

What's on MLB Network? Game 5 of the 2008 World Series (local Phillies blackout). DVR recording, look for me in the crowd. :)

US vs. Netherlands at 7:30 PM ET on ESPN2.

NASA launch on schedule for 7:43 ET PM. HDNet.

Unfortunately, I missed the launch last night. If you have any info of a repeat show, I would appreciate you posting it here. Thanks.

Just needed to vent again and belabor the obvious. Boy do they suck. I mean really really suck.

At this point I'm really considering going back to Comcast after my term is over, but Verizon's product is just so much better.

But OMG the sheer stupidity and ineptitude. Oh the humanity!

Just needed to vent again and belabor the obvious. Boy do they suck. I mean really really suck.

At this point I'm really considering going back to Comcast after my term is over, but Verizon's product is just so much better.

But OMG the sheer stupidity and ineptitude. Oh the humanity!

To play a little bit of a devil's advocate here but name me a company that actually has a good and competent customer service.

In every company the customer service is where they try to do on the cheap. Only time you get a good customer service is if you are on a contract and pay for it.

...name me a company that actually has a good and competent customer service....
Oppo Digital!!! Amazing company, and an email to them gets answered very quickly. Phone calls get answered by a person! Truly the model for a company that wants to service their customers. On the other hand, how frustrating is the phone call to Verizon, for any needs? You can shout "representative" into the phone all night, and the machine will ask another worthless question. How many times has a rep answered your call and then it's the wrong department??? The problem is, there is no better cable service...period!

Just needed to vent again and belabor the obvious. Boy do they suck. I mean really really suck.

At this point I'm really considering going back to Comcast after my term is over, but Verizon's product is just so much better.

But OMG the sheer stupidity and ineptitude. Oh the humanity!

I agree with swyck. Verizon has absolutely the worst customer service I have ever dealt with.

To play a little bit of a devil's advocate here but name me a company that actually has a good and competent customer service.

Nintendo, for one. Microsoft business support, for another. I actually have had 50/50 results with both Verizon and Comcast. When I get someone competent, they're extremely helpful. When I don't....I'm better served hanging up and trying again. ;)

Nintendo, for one. Microsoft business support, for another. I actually have had 50/50 results with both Verizon and Comcast. When I get someone competent, they're extremely helpful. When I don't....I'm better served hanging up and trying again. ;)

Good tech support w/Earthlink and Maxtor/Seagate here.

Oppo Digital!!! Amazing company, and an email to them gets answered very quickly. Phone calls get answered by a person! Truly the model for a company that wants to service their customers. On the other hand, how frustrating is the phone call to Verizon, for any needs? You can shout "representative" into the phone all night, and the machine will ask another worthless question. How many times has a rep answered your call and then it's the wrong department??? The problem is, there is no better cable service...period!

That's comparing apples and oranges. If either Oppo or Nintendo or Earthlink had a volume of calls that any cable company handles per day they'd buckle and would give as bad of CS as Verizon or Comcast. Mind you I'm NOT defending Verizon, Comcast or any other company for low quality CS its just any company that deals with end users on a daily basis will have these problems. I guess I just accepted this as a fact of life and learned to be patient and polite to CSRs.

The people who answer the phones usually do try to help but most of the time they are very under-trained, over-stressed and very poorly paid. So I cut them some slack. I sometime try to put myself in their shoes and I tell you folks I am glad I do not have to answer phones to make a living.:(

The companies that do not invest in their customer service are to blame for trying to cut corners and not support their customers.

I'm considering taking Verizon up on their current offer and dumping Comcast. CSN HD is a must; probably the only one. What package should I get? Any pitfalls I should be aware of?

What channels will I receive without a STB? I have a bedroom TV that I'd prefer to run without a box. It does have a QAM tuner.

Thanks,
Frank

That's comparing apples and oranges. If either Oppo or Nintendo or Earthlink had a volume of calls that any cable company handles per day they'd buckle and would give as bad of CS as Verizon or Comcast.

What makes you think that a company like Microsoft or Nintendo gets fewer customer calls? Nintendo has sold over 100 million DSes, more than 40 million Wiis and hundreds of millions of software programs (Nintendogs alone has sold over 21 million copies). I'm not saying you're wrong...I'm honestly asking: how many subscribers do Verizon and Comcast have by comparison?

Without a STB, you'll only get the local channels, plus a couple of others. They do have a digital converter for $3.99/month that will give you all the channels in SD. Here's a list of channels that I get using a QAM tuner (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=15430262#post15430262).

The Extreme HD package is good. If you bundle it with Internet or phone you can save a lot. I have the 20Mbps Internet and Extreme HD TV package. I pay $80/month, plus $16/month for the DVR.

frankd - You'd probably want the Extreme HD package, details are over on DSL Reports Verizon FIOS forum: http://www.dslreports.com/forum/r21263024-Extreme-HD-and-Essentials-Information (check out that forum while you're at it).

There's a QAM tuner list in this thread: http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=15430262#post15430262

What makes you think that a company like Microsoft or Nintendo gets fewer customer calls? Nintendo has sold over 100 million DSes, more than 40 million Wiis and hundreds of millions of software programs (Nintendogs alone has sold over 21 million copies). I'm not saying you're wrong...I'm honestly asking: how many subscribers do Verizon and Comcast have by comparison?

Let's see... Comcast has about 22 mil TV subscribers and about 16 mil Internet subscribers and Verizon FIOS TV is around 1-2 mil and FIOS internet maybe 2-3 mil by now. Verizon as a phone company has about 50 or so million customers all over Eastern seaboard.

So... Keep in mind when a customer calls Nintendo or Microsoft they usually call in regards to a specific product and CSR's answering usually trained for that product. When someone calls Verizon, Comcast, etc it could be a technical support question, billing dispute, service appointment, bad box, slow internet, noise on a phone line, whatever else. So the CSR that picks that phone is a close-to-minimum-wage drone that usually reads the script, i.e. unplug and reboot STB, send a Hit to a box, reboot your PC, that kind of crap.

CSR's mission in life as far as company is concerned is to get you off the phone as soon as possible because as a soon as you picked that phone up you're costing company money.

Looks like they added NBC US yesterday (at least here in DE) on channel 464.

It's one of NBC 10's sub-channels that shows more obscure sporting events.

IT had been carried by Comcast for some time on their lineup, so it was a surprise to see it last night.

I agree with swyck. Verizon has absolutely the worst customer service I have ever dealt with.
I think it's a crapshoot based on the individual CSR that you get each time. For me, the past three times I had to call, I got excellent service. After complaining about some glitches in my signal, they offered to send a out a new settop box. Then the CSR reviewed my account (I've had the $99 Triple Play for one year) and offered to upgrade me to 100 HD channels, free premium channels for a month, and 20/5 internet - all for the same rate. And they were pleasant to talk to also.

Bottom line - if you get an idiot on the line, hang up and try again.

I had FIOS installed yesterday. Very good deal $99 a month for phone 20/5 Internet and ExtremeHD plus the eventual $150 rebate. Rates set for 2 years.

Install took 4.5 hours. Great tech, and setup was a breeze as my house was previously set up for Comcast.

It takes some time getting used to the guide, but the number of HD channels is impressive compared to Comcast. I poked around the VOD and I think the Comcast version is a little easier to use. The litmus test will be when my wife starts using it.

Pet peeve: No universal power on/off for remote control?:confused:

What do you mean by universal power control? You can set the codes to turn a TV on and off with the box, if that particular set cooperates. With my Pioneer plasma, I haven't had luck with the given codes to make that happen, although I can hit the TV button, and then the power button to control it.

Thanks, bcarlsen, GeekGirl.

Mikeewing that's the way I want to go. I didn't realize Extreem HD and 20/5 was the $99 offer.

Frank

The remote control comes with directions for setting up the power button. To get the power button to turn off the STB and the TV when you are in STB mode follow these directions:

1. Press and hold the STB key
2. While holding down the STB key press OK
3. Release both keys. The Device Keys will blink twice.
4. Press 9 - 7 - 7. The STB key will blink twice.
5. One after the other press each Device Key you want to the Power Key to control in the order you want them to turn off. (for example press STB then TV)
6 Press OK when done. The STB key will blink 3 times to indicate success in programming.

Thanks, bcarlsen, GeekGirl.

Mikeewing that's the way I want to go. I didn't realize Extreem HD and 20/5 was the $99 offer.

Frank

Yes, it seems like a great deal, and the channel selection is excellent. Many more HD channels to choose from. I haven't run into a channel that I am missing from Comcast, except for CN8, which I never watched anyway. You can get the slower (10/2) for $94. Also, for the first month you get all the channels (except x-rated stuff like Playboy), and once that month is over your package kicks in.

bcarlson, I'm going to try this remote procedure right away. The install guy didn't provide a remote guide, and he didn't think there was a way to do it. Amazing, since he was a whiz with everything else.

A reminder that your first bill will be for 2 months. Verizon holds one month in advance as hostage until you cancel. I think Comcast did that, too..:p

Manuals for your remote are on the Verizon website: http://www22.verizon.com/residentialhelp/fiostv/remote+controls/setup/setup.htm

A reminder that your first bill will be for 2 months. Verizon holds one month in advance as hostage until you cancel. I think Comcast did that, too..:p

Manuals for your remote are on the Verizon website: http://www22.verizon.com/residentialhelp/fiostv/remote+controls/setup/setup.htm


Thanks, Geek Girl and bcarlson. Remotes are now working perfectly. I had the newer Moto boxes through Comcast, and they were a lot quieter than these Verizon boxes. I feel like I took a step backwards, but besides that I think the service is better than Comcast.

Money wise, I think it'll be fine after the dust settles...

Does anyone experience dropouts? Sometimes my screen will go blank. However, if I rewind and replay that portion of the show, it will be there. This happens whether I'm watching live tv or DVR'd content.

Same thing was happening to me yesterday - and sometimes when the picture returned, the colors were all whacked out. I had to power down the box and turn it back on to fix the colors.

Same thing was happening to me yesterday - and sometimes when the picture returned, the colors were all whacked out. I had to power down the box and turn it back on to fix the colors.

I'll try powering off and on. I have 2 dvr's in the house, and the other one is not experiencing dropouts.

The people who answer the phones usually do try to help but most of the time they are very under-trained, over-stressed and very poorly paid. So I cut them some slack. I sometime try to put myself in their shoes and I tell you folks I am glad I do not have to answer phones to make a living.:(

The companies that do not invest in their customer service are to blame for trying to cut corners and not support their customers.

I'm not really complaining about the people that answer the phones, though some have obviously given up trying to be useful. They have a tough job, with little support from their management. I agree that the companies are to blame for being shortsighted and cutting corners on customer support.

To follow up on my earlier rant, I sent an email to as many company execs as I could find names for. Many emails came back as invalid address, but some got through. I got at least three calls from executive services offering help, and I talked to a couple of people there. My problem got solved eventually, kind of.

I don't know that I'd have had any resolution without my emails. I spent hours on the phone being bounced around, disconnected, and getting busy signals to no avail. The main issues as far as I can see is that they are simply not organized, and that they are willing to accept they way things are.

In upper Chichester 19014, still no fios.
I'd love to get this and cancel comcast.

what is taking so long?

As expected, MASN HD launched in Northern DE today on Channel 578.

We're not expected to get this in the Philadelphia area are we???

My install date is April 1st. I hope this doesn't turn into a joke (sorry, sometimes I just can't help myself).

$99 + $10.99(HDextreem) + $5.99(1 SD box) = $115.98 (-$150 gift card)

They still have to pull that orange conduit from the curb under my driveway up to my house. I wonder when they will be out to do that. I hope I get a good crew.

Frank

We're not expected to get this in the Philadelphia area are we???

Jim,

Sorry - MASN is only on the Delaware lineups (and out in Harrisburg via VHO 14). I actually get 3 RSN's here..

CSN Philly
CSN Mid-Atlantic
MASN

CSN Philly HD
MASN HD

And - just yesterday I inquired as to why Northern DE doesn't get CSN MA in HD (the rest of DE does) - turns out they didn't realize we didn't have it - and are now planning to get it turned on for us.

So - Northern DE is a hotbed for regional sports in HD! :cool:

When I got home yesterday my yard was already lined. They didn't waste any time on that.

When I got home yesterday my yard was already lined. They didn't waste any time on that.


I just had FIOS installed last week and it took about 4.5 hours. Just one tech. He said that he usually works with another guy and they typically get the installations done in 2-3 hours.

My area does not bury the cable, so he did everything in one day.

...So - Northern DE is a hotbed for regional sports in HD! :cool:
That's nice, and could be an interesting mix of games to watch.

My neighbor just had the line pulled though his yard. They didn't use the orange conduit on his; that's the first I've seen it done that way. I still don't have a line and the install is set for 8am Wed. We'll see.

Frank

The run through my yard only has the conduit at the ends near the pole and at the house. The remainder of the run was in a trench.

Right next door has conduit from end to end(installed a year ago). Across the street none at all (installed last week). Mine has to go under my driveway my neighbors didn't. I would think they'd want that part in conduit. I got a text from the bose a couple hours ago. She said they were out there now. I hope they didn't tear up my yard to bad (again).

For those Delaware customers served out of our VHO (including me) - MASN 2 was turned back on yesterday afternoon on Channel 1. Guide data is now showing as of this morning.

For those not familiar, this channel will show Orioles and / or Nationals games when both teams are playing at the same time, or when 1 team is assigned to be shown on MASN2.

All other times, ESPN News will be the filler programming.

Right next door has conduit from end to end(installed a year ago). Across the street none at all (installed last week). Mine has to go under my driveway my neighbors didn't. I would think they'd want that part in conduit. I got a text from the bose a couple hours ago. She said they were out there now. I hope they didn't tear up my yard to bad (again).

Frank - how did your install go?

Hey Mike thanks for asking. The install when pretty well. They left my front yard in good condition. They did install a small ground level box on the side of my driveway. So now I have a verizon box on each side of my driveway. On one side is the large distribution box that feeds my neighbors and I and on the other side is a small box they just installed. I'm not crazy about that but I think I'm being a bit anal.

The service install went well also. The tech arrived at about 9:30 and finished up at 1:30. He was making great time but one of the boxes wouldn't activate for him and that cost him 45 minutes. It wasn't comforting watching him wait on hold for 15 minutes trying to get some phone support. He was a nice guy. It struck me funny how he showed up. I met him in the drive way and the first thing he says is, "Hey, today's the big day." I felt like I was in a commercial.

Everything works well. I see some picture improvement on my standard def TV. HD looks about the same to me. My internet download speed went from 9Mb/s to 19Mb/s. I'm still getting use to the new boxes and channel numbers. I have no idea how to use the phone system. My phone is telling me I missed a call and I don't know how to check for messages. I haven't stumbled across any doc for that. Really I was satisfied with Comcast's service. I made the switch because my monthly bill kept going up. I just ran my old hardware over to comcast and canceled their service. That took about 90 seconds; they've got that down to a science.

Enjoy the weekend all,
Frank

You probably have something called Home Voice Mail: http://www22.verizon.com/ResidentialHelp/Phone/Calling+Features/Home+Voice+Mail/Home+Voice+Mail.htm

Follow through on the Quick Start Guide which brings you here: http://www22.verizon.com/ResidentialHelp/Phone/Calling+Features/Home+Voice+Mail/Questions+and+Answers/96579.htm

The "access number" is your home phone number. I'd suggest to change your password ASAP since it defaults to the last 4 digits of your phone number.

Hey Mike thanks for asking. The install when pretty well. They left my front yard in good condition. They did install a small ground level box on the side of my driveway. So now I have a verizon box on each side of my driveway. On one side is the large distribution box that feeds my neighbors and I and on the other side is a small box they just installed. I'm not crazy about that but I think I'm being a bit anal.

The service install went well also. The tech arrived at about 9:30 and finished up at 1:30. He was making great time but one of the boxes wouldn't activate for him and that cost him 45 minutes. It wasn't comforting watching him wait on hold for 15 minutes trying to get some phone support. He was a nice guy. It struck me funny how he showed up. I met him in the drive way and the first thing he says is, "Hey, today's the big day." I felt like I was in a commercial.

Everything works well. I see some picture improvement on my standard def TV. HD looks about the same to me. My internet download speed went from 9Mb/s to 19Mb/s. I'm still getting use to the new boxes and channel numbers. I have no idea how to use the phone system. My phone is telling me I missed a call and I don't know how to check for messages. I haven't stumbled across any doc for that. Really I was satisfied with Comcast's service. I made the switch because my monthly bill kept going up. I just ran my old hardware over to comcast and canceled their service. That took about 90 seconds; they've got that down to a science.

Enjoy the weekend all,
Frank


That sounds just like my install experience. They've clearly improved over the nightmare stories from a year or two ago.

Comcast really surprised. Here I am , a loyal customer for over 25 years, and they didn't even ask why I was disconnecting! Wham, bam, thank you ma'am...

That sounds just like my install experience. They've clearly improved over the nightmare stories from a year or two ago.

Comcast really surprised. Here I am , a loyal customer for over 25 years, and they didn't even ask why I was disconnecting! Wham, bam, thank you ma'am...

My experience as well. In and out of Comcast office under 5 minutes.

Comcast is not stupid... :rolleyes: Why waste energy asking for your business if their service is subpar to FIOS. They know when to quit.

They did ask me. I said, "I went with Verizon for a better price."

This morning, YES HD has shown up here in Delaware out of VHO8 on Channel 595, and is in the guide after I did the "scan 10 days ahead in the guide trick".

This launch is ONLY the HD channel.

There was a posted rumor over on the VZ sponsored forums that perhaps Verizon was in works for a national agreement to show YES HD across the country. Now, i'm not sure if that's the case yet - but this definitely points to something of the sort.

If anyone else can check 595 in their guides, let me know!

Personally, the Yankees suck (I'm a Phillies fan), but I could totally see an excellent PR opportunity for Verizon if they could state that they offer "America's Team" to their entire FIOS TV footprint. And, having another sports channel in HD fits right into my area of pleasure.

My only remaining questions is, "Will you be able to see Yankees game outside of the NY area, or will it be blacked out?" I have MLB Extra Innings, so I'd see them regardless, but it will be interesting.

They did ask me. I said, "I went with Verizon for a better price."
That is exactly what I told the Comcast office when I dropped off their cable boxes. There was no comment back from the lady in the bullet proof glass box...ever wonder why they need a bullet proof environment??? :rolleyes:

That is exactly what I told the Comcast office when I dropped off their cable boxes. There was no comment back from the lady in the bullet proof glass box...ever wonder why they need a bullet proof environment??? :rolleyes:

I've thought about that, too. I think the discussion went something like this:

"We have a problem: our customers are so angry they want to kill us. What should we do about that?"

"We could try to make our customers happy."

"No, that might affect profits."

"Hmm... we could put up a physical barrier to prevent an attack."

"Yeah, let's do that!"

Well,

It turns out that YES is now producing a National version of the channel, which is what FIOS has picked up and turned on for us yesterday.

During live telecasts of Yankees and / or Nets games, the guide will show as "Off-Air", since these games are unable to be shown outside of the NYC area.

Just what we want in Philly - a New York sports channel..lol :D

But hey, i'll never turn down more HD.

Well, it will show the beauty of the nation's most expensive stadium, at least for awhile until the Cowboys play, and in HD, the overpaid players will show nicely also!

Phils game today is listed as being on "cnp" what channel that?

I think it's what used to be known as CN8, available on Comcast cable only.

WPHT-1210 AM is nearly in sync with the Gameday internet feed: http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/gameday/index.jsp?gid=2009_04_10_phimlb_colmlb_1&mode=gameday

Maybe it's a good thing I can't watch it. Not a good outing for Cole Hamels :mad:

The Comcast Network and they are providing an HD feed to Comcast customers of any games on that channel in the next two months. As far as I know, Verizon is not picking up that separate HD feed.

Just wondering if anyone knows if there are any plans in the works to bring the SNY network to FiOS in Philly? I just noticed that they recently added the YES network.

Maybe its wishful thinking, but I'm pretty sure its available on the FiOS system in Mercer county (I'm in Bucks). Displaced Mets fan here, and I would love to be able to catch more than just the national games w/o paying additional fees.

As always, thanks in advance for any info. :)

Getting FIOS installed today. Having minor issues because they won't leave me 2 self install STBs, but what can you do? I'm actually pretty annoyed becayse the sales person and a rep told me it would not be a problem.

I called the day I got a flyer on my door it was available on my street.

Just hope it is as good as everyone says.

You're going to be very happy with the picture quality. Comcast here has all sorts of problems since many of the lines are older. You're better off having the installer put in those boxes and checking for the correct signal level. Where I had amplifiers added to the Comcast boxes, I needed none for the FiOS boxes, and one actually needed an attenuator to bring down the signal level.

Enjoy, and post back your reaction to the installation.

I'll post back tonight. Apparently the install went OK with no problems.

However, 2 of my 5 TVs are still hooked to Comcast since they wouldn't leave me 2 additional STBs.

Does anyone have the multiroom DVR ... if you record a HD show, and try to watch it on a standard STB, does it downconvert?

:(:( Harry... http://www.philly.com/inquirer/breaking/sports_breaking/20090413_Phils_announcer_Harry_Kalas_rushed_to_the_hospital. html :(:(

:(:( Harry... http://www.philly.com/inquirer/breaking/sports_breaking/20090413_Phils_announcer_Harry_Kalas_rushed_to_the_hospital. html :(:(

Harry and Whitey will forever be in our hearts.

CSN-HD is replaying Harry's last game now, instead of today's afternoon game vs. Nats (we won). This is rough. :( :(

While i'm sure it won't cause much stir...

Look for the addition of the MLS Direct Kick channels next week - should fall in line after the MLB Extra Innings block (1489-1499).

Enjoy, and post back your reaction to the installation.


Initial reaction so far is ... eh.

Maybe we were lucky with Comcast, but I only see a very slight improvement in picture, if at all. Nothing dramatic like a lot of people have been advertising. Computer speeds are also similar. My wife actually thinks it seems slower, though I have not fully speed tested it yet.

There are also a few other things I am unhappy with them for. It clearly is not a huge savings over Comcast once you add all the pieces they require.

One of the major sticking points so far has been the "swap" ability of the Comcast DVR vs the FIOS DVR. I like the implementation WAY better on the Comcast box. Also, the fact you can't play HD recorded stuff on a non HD TV is ridiculous. Well, of course you CAN do it if you want to hang a $10 HD box off the standard TV. We record all the shows we watch in HD ... it would be nice to watch the last half of such a show in the bedroom or kitchen. No such luck. So I have to record in SD just in case I need to watch it somewhere else? Dumb.

In their defense, they do have a ton more HD channels (and channels in general) than Comcast ... but do I really watch any of the additional fringey channels?

While I only have HD boxes, they changing your output resolution of your box on the HD channels to SD resolution and see if you can stream them to a non HD box. As for the swap function, that has been a total non issue for me. Would I like it? Sure, but I can't say that I really miss it. As for the PQ, there is a huge difference, the bigger the set, the more noticeable the difference, especially on SD. I would hate to have to go back.

While I only have HD boxes, they changing your output resolution of your box on the HD channels to SD resolution and see if you can stream them to a non HD box. As for the swap function, that has been a total non issue for me. Would I like it? Sure, but I can't say that I really miss it. As for the PQ, there is a huge difference, the bigger the set, the more noticeable the difference, especially on SD. I would hate to have to go back.

They have it disabled. If you try to access the show recorded in HD on the SD box, it says you need a HD box for that. Just a way to get more money! I really get the feeling Verizon will nickel and dime me to death.

The swap function was very "important" to us. Let's say I am watching the Flyers game and the Phillies game. Flyers go to commercial, so I swap back to the Phils. They are also on commercial, so I change that tuner to ESPNews to check other scores. While there I see the Flyers scored, so I swap to the other tuner and rewind to see the goal. (I do this often.)

On Verizon if I do that, I would have lost the Flyers game. You can replicate it if you record the Flyers game to the DVR, but it seems weird to have to do it that way when the box could obviously support it.

The things in life we think are important! :)

I must have been lucky with Comcast, because to me and the other 3 adults in my house there is very little difference in picture quality. They just hooked it up ... is it possible we're not getting the full boat yet?

If it's running, you've got what you are going to get. The FiOS internet should be quite a bit faster, but you wouldn't notice that on your computer that much just by paging through your browser. Sending and receiving should be quite a bit different in the speed tests. And yes, they've got you in the billing side because of the cost of the box rentals...they're needed for each TV.

Bill-
It also matters what size TV you're watching it on. The larger the TV, the more you'll see the imperfections, or in FIOS TV's case, the improvement. (oops - just realized JWhip pretty much said the same thing)

In regards to watching HD content on an SD box - this "ability" is in the pipeline. They need to expand the SD STB's firmware for it to know to do this.

Some reports said it would happen by the end of 2009, but for now, yes, you'll need to put out the extra $4/mo for the HD box.

And one more thing ... why does everything take so long?

Want to get the additional 2 boxes I need for my TVs? A week or more.

Activate the voicemail and Call Assistant? Going to be ready in 3 days.

Activate the Home Media DVR online ability? 48 hours.

Just wait till you see what they did to your bill...

Please don't scare me more than I already am! :)

Just trying to get 2 more boxes is a nightmare ... can't imagine what billing problems are like.

Just wait till you see what they did to your bill...


I just switched from Comcast to FIOS and my first bill was fine. Perhaps it is because I already had Verizon phone and DSL?

However, with Comcast I had the Moto 3416 which was completely quiet. The Verizon QIP7200 box to me is a step backwards. I can hear the disk drive clunking away, plus after one months use I had to disconnect and reconnect as my DVR said it was 45% full but there were no recordings present.

Also, IMO, the Comcast guide was much better then the Verizon guide.

Initial reaction so far is ... eh.

Maybe we were lucky with Comcast, but I only see a very slight improvement in picture, if at all. Nothing dramatic like a lot of people have been advertising. Computer speeds are also similar. My wife actually thinks it seems slower, though I have not fully speed tested it yet.

There are also a few other things I am unhappy with them for. It clearly is not a huge savings over Comcast once you add all the pieces they require.

One of the major sticking points so far has been the "swap" ability of the Comcast DVR vs the FIOS DVR. I like the implementation WAY better on the Comcast box. Also, the fact you can't play HD recorded stuff on a non HD TV is ridiculous. Well, of course you CAN do it if you want to hang a $10 HD box off the standard TV. We record all the shows we watch in HD ... it would be nice to watch the last half of such a show in the bedroom or kitchen. No such luck. So I have to record in SD just in case I need to watch it somewhere else? Dumb.

In their defense, they do have a ton more HD channels (and channels in general) than Comcast ... but do I really watch any of the additional fringey channels?

It is good to hear somebody report that Comcast quality is not too different from Fios. When I switched two years back, it was a no-contest win for Fios. But lack of credible competition is never good for customers. FWIW, when I was in Fios billing hell, I would have switched back if Comcast's offering (picture quality wise) was even close.

It is good to hear somebody report that Comcast quality is not too different from Fios. When I switched two years back, it was a no-contest win for Fios. But lack of credible competition is never good for customers. FWIW, when I was in Fios billing hell, I would have switched back if Comcast's offering (picture quality wise) was even close.

People here at work who ditched Comcast act like Comcast was providing them with a coat hanger for a signal ... which maybe they were. Mine is MAYBE a little better ... hard to say. But I had Comcast basically replace all my coax, and I bet that is what a lot of people have issues with.

Things have smoothed out a little today. After 3 days (and cancelled web orders, hangups, and incompetence) I was finally able to order 2 more set top boxes. And apparently they did my bundle wrong, so the phone part was messed up which was putting a crimp in all other orders. Once that was fixed, the STBs went through, and my Remote DVR started working. (THAT is pretty cool but don't get me started on the awful guide.)

So I am thinking of maybe keeping FIOS and giving it a shot and hoping they change a few things...

Verizon is quick to fix issues .... riiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiight? :eek:

But I had Comcast basically replace all my coax, and I bet that is what a lot of people have issues with.
No, that's not the problem with Comcast. Comcast has maxed out its bandwidth. Everytime Comcast adds an HD channel they have to take away 2 analog channels. They still have to support all those analog channels and coax doesn't have as much bandwidth as fiber optic. So Comcast compresses their digital channels so they can squeeze as many in as they can. This results in noticable artifacts, such as pixelation. Having bad coax cables in your house won't show up as a poor image on your digital channels, it would maybe appear as sparkles in your image or large sections of the image missing. Maybe for analog, but if you're watching analog channels then you're probably not too concerned about image quality.

Verizon FiOS doesn't compress their channels much (they claim that they don't compress them at all).

Some people are very concerned about getting the best picture possible and others aren't. I think it's safe to say that if you have Comcast and you don't notice anything wrong with the picture, you're not going to be blown away by FiOS.

I was wondering if those who have FIOS with phone service can control features via a web page? I had Vonage for a few years and liked the variety of controls they had for forwarding, simultaneous rings, 3-way calling, etc. Comcast sucked me in with their triple play but the phone management is very limited. For example, I can't turn off call waiting via the web (in fact, even when I call Comcast to take it off they have been unable to do so). Any info would be appreciated. Thanks.

i can't believe you guys are complaining about the FiOS guide. IMO, the guide/software are light years better than that 80's looking clunky crap comcast puts out. takes some getting used to, but there's no comparison...FiOS wins by a mile.

G-Star-
I have to agree with you.

Yardley Bill - what do you dislike about the FIOS guide? Would you rather be using Comcast's Commodore 64 style guide? But hey, at least you can choose the color of the background..lol.

I think the old Comcast guide gave more information. A nit, but the operation of pushing the down button to go up in channels is not intuitive, although it is in the direction that they've placed them. When you click for Info, it just repeats what you've already seen on the description, and doesn't give enough information about the film, although the latest update did go back to giving a few of the actors and the date of the film.

My issues with the Guide/DVR are as follows...

1. The major issue is that half the time the guide data is wrong. The worst issue is how they say a show is new when it isn't, or a repeat when it is new. Try recording a series of Law and Order:Criminal Intent as "record as new". You'll have 10 episodes on your DVR in a few days. Plus, a lot of time (especially in sports) what they say is on is totally different than what actually IS on. I've seen this many times in a few days already.

2. The shows are coded wrong. Try viewing Disney Channel around 7-10 in the morning. They are all kids shows but only half are marked as such.

3. I like the tuner swap on the Comcast DVR much better. It's not life altering, but the way Verizon does it is nowhere near as good.

I *DO* think the Verizon guide looks much better. But I can live with Commodore colors if the data is right.

I preferred the Comcast guide, too. I'm not looking for anything real fancy in a guide. Just give me as much information as possible - as quickly as possible. For some reason, the FiOS guide has the middle row taking up half the screen. I just want a list of shows so I can scan through the channels. If I wanted more info on a particular show, I would have selected it.

And while we're on this topic, why can't the guide be in widescreen? How difficult can that be?

Okay - I'm in agreement w/ you all on the guide data. This has been a complaint of people for over 2 years now - however it doesn't appear Verizon feels the same. They are comfortable using FYI and apparently have no plans to change providers.

The Comcast guide displayed more of the channel's schedule horizontally.

I also liked the Comcast feature where you hit the Guide button twice and could see the schedule for that channel for the next 6 or so hours.

My other big problem is th box itself which I think is a step back from the Comcast Moto 3416.

While I agree that the guide data could and should be better, I find the FiOS STB's and the DVR to be better than that provided by Comcast. It would really be hard to go back.

While I agree that the guide data could and should be better, I find the FiOS STB's and the DVR to be better than that provided by Comcast. It would really be hard to go back.

It must be my age. My daughter came home for the weekend, and she said she's already used to the new guide....

I still like the Moto 3416 box more.

The MLS Direct Kick channels went live this morning out of VHO8 (DE / PA / NJ)

They are showing up on 1495 - 1499. I'm assuming that the soccer games only use 5 of the total allotment of channels, with the others being used by NBA League Pass (which we should see next fall).

I believe the cost for the season is $79. There will NOT be an HD channel associated with this package, as there is for MLB and NHL.

Enjoy!

The Phillies game this evening is moved to a CNP channel due to the Sixers game being carried by CSN. Do we get that channel, and if so, where is it located? High def or standard?

Jim Hef-
We do NOT get this channel, and will not (at least for the Spring) - not sure of plans for fall / spring 2010

While I love the FiOS service, they really dropped the ball on this one and have given Comcast some fodder for their new radio ads. They really need to pick up these overflow HD channels in all markets to be a real player in the video business. It would be inexcusable to have to deal with this again in the fall.

Jeepmatt, thanks! I figured it was an overflow channel like CN8, and that we would probably not get the game, but was hoping one of the other networks would be covering it due to the conflicting schedules. I guess Comcast won this war. Yes, I heard the new Comcast commercial on radio yesterday, and was amused by their downplay of FiOS. I'd never go back to Comcast just to get an occasional game conflict taken care of!

There was a Phillies press release about the channel changes: http://philadelphia.phillies.mlb.com/news/press_releases/press_release.jsp?ymd=20090421&content_id=4358516&vkey=pr_phi&fext=.jsp&c_id=phi
I'm hoping for a conflict on Monday...:rolleyes:

...I'm hoping for a conflict on Monday...:rolleyes:
I think, after their effort last evening, we'd all accept that! Tomorrow, 3:00PM...we'll know by 6:00 about Monday, and about that same time, what the Eagles will have done with their first pick!

Did anyone notice audio problems with ABC last night, between 8 and 11PM?

The surrounds were garbled and the LRC was quite noisy. Volume faded in an out and there was crackling on voices - like clipping.

Did anyone notice audio problems with ABC last night, between 8 and 11PM?

The surrounds were garbled and the LRC was quite noisy. Volume faded in an out and there was crackling on voices - like clipping.

Had the same problem on ABC.

Thanks... sorry you had it too, but glad it was FIOS in general and not our individual DVR's/STB's.

Unfortunately, we don't need to worry about that pesky Comcast Network conflict this evening!

Does everyone remember the 6 ".tv" HD channels that used to be in the guide as "Coming Soon"?????

Well...look for them to finally launch mid-May...

Now they're finally "breathing heavy"??? Couldn't help myself! :p I don't remember the list, but I'm sure I haven't missed the added programming.

The .tv HD channels I mentioned a few days ago should go live on 5/12..

Wish the boys well this evening with Howard out of the lineup...may extend the series one more game!

Check you Verizon bill thoroughly to be sure you are being billed for what you want and not for their add-ons! I rarely do that, but noticed that I was now signed up for a $10 per month WWE On Demand and for a $9 per month security add-on. They are both added on after the trial period unless you contact them directly to remove them from your options. Lesson learned by me!

That's why I never go for the "free" for 30 days offers.

I don't think I did. The rep told me that it was automatically bundled. I wouldn't subscribe to that even if it were free!

Well, the .tv HD channels are still on target to launch Tuesday for us...

Previously, this was the list:

558 ES.tv
599 Cars.tv
633 Pets.tv
674 My Destination.tv
676 Recipe.tv
695 Comedy.TV

I'm not 100% certain they are keeping the same placement, but i'll verify on Tuesday.

Also, there is some good news HD wise for us coming in the next few months. I have a feeling alot of people will be pleased..

...Also, there is some good news HD wise for us coming in the next few months. I have a feeling alot of people will be pleased..
Tease!!! Cars and Comedy are a nice addition!

Also, there is some good news HD wise for us coming in the next few months. I have a feeling alot of people will be pleased..

They are not going to charge us for the HD STB? :)

Also, there is some good news HD wise for us coming in the next few months. I have a feeling alot of people will be pleased..The NASA channel? :rolleyes:

I'd like to see an HD Chiller. I guess I'm the only one.

Nope.

Nope.

I'd love to see Millenium in HD.

(Also posted in the Verizon FiOS HDTV thread) It's listed on HDNet:

Mon, May 11 - 1:30 PM ET 10:30 AM PT
NASA on HDNet - LIVE!
Space Shuttle Atlantis STS-125 Launch - Live coverage from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida of the launch of space shuttle Atlantis STS-125. On the 11-day mission, Atlantis' crew will visit the Hubble space telescope for the final time, upgrading one of the most important satellites ever launched.

It's also in the IMG. I programmed it via Remote DVR:

NASA Space Shuttle Atlantis STS-125 Launch
Duration : 45 min.
Rated : TVPG
Cast and Credits: NA
Plot Summary (blank)

Catch the repeats here (ET):
NASA Space Shuttle Atlantis STS-125 Launch; Tue, May 12 10:00 AM ; 569-HDNet
NASA Space Shuttle Atlantis STS-125 Launch; Sat, May 16 10:30 AM ;569-HDNet

I'll put that into the DVR right now! Thanks for the heads up on that. I missed the night launch, but I want to see this one also.

Also, there is some good news HD wise for us coming in the next few months. I have a feeling alot of people will be pleased..

Any chance of gettng SNY (Sports Net NY) in Bucks County? I'm pretty sure its available across the river in Mercer County.

Thanks to anyone with info.

Any Verizon guys still hanging around?

My Comcast Triple play "promotion" expired and they jacked my rates, big time.

I want to switch to FIOS, but I live in Abington, the Baederwood section, and am appararently in a FIOS black hole, thanks to the Jenkintown dialing prefix.

Any updates on when/if EVER service will be available? I have friends who live in Jenkintown/Rydal who have FIOS. Friends in Abington have FIOS.

But not us, and Verizon telephone customer service is clueless.
DirecTV is not an option, as I love the Phils and need SportsNet.

Still silence....bummer