To the extent you can tell HD visually, the AMC HD On Demand presentations of Mad Men and Breaking Bad where both HD. They both exhibited clearly elevated picture definition.

To the extent you can tell HD visually, the AMC HD On Demand presentations of Mad Men and Breaking Bad where both HD. They both exhibited clearly elevated picture definition.

That was my point exactly. They obviously have the HD versions available, but viewer reports say that they are not using them (at least with Breaking Bad) on their "HD" channel, for whatever reason.

Comcast really knows how to rope you in. My 129 package expires next month, so now they are offering me the 159 package which includes the DVR !! So the net increase is $17 and I guess you get every channel available including all the movie channels. I was planning to drop to Starter, but this is appealing. Maybe a year from now they will start installing fios in my town (fat chance).

-Ken

Comcast really knows how to rope you in. My 129 package expires next month, so now they are offering me the 159 package which includes the DVR !! So the net increase is $17 and I guess you get every channel available including all the movie channels. I was planning to drop to Starter, but this is appealing. Maybe a year from now they will start installing fios in my town (fat chance).

-Ken

This is what I have and my "Package" expires next month too. I believe renewal is possible but if it isn't its bye bye land line and down to Digital preffered (Maybe keep HBO)

This morning, I lost most (but not all) of the Music Choice channels on my TiVO HD box...I checked my Comcast box and they were also gone. I called Comcast, who sent me to the TiVO dept (duh!), who sent me right back to Comcast. They sent a hit, but nothing. I also noticed several other channels missing (nothing important, fortunately...), and asked if it was an area problem. They had no idea what I was talking about, and scheduled a tech to come visit. Anyone else notice a drop in channels on MC, or any other channels (like Fox Movie Channel), in Greater Boston?
Why would this happen...? They were fine yesterday...
UPDATE
Comcast said it was my problem, they'd send someone out in a week.
Half hour later, Comcast called and said they were doing some maintenance and certain channels were down for a couple of hours.
ALthough it would have been nice if the CSRs had been informed of this, I thought it nice of whoever to call and let me know they were back up and they cancelled the service call. Not bad Customer Service, if you ask me.

Thanks for the updates Glavine. I just fired off an email to their exec. cust. care office, voicing my displeasure. My argument was that with the new 3:1 compression system they could easily add another channel, especially one we pay $160 for. I also stated that if other parts of the country get the HD channel for the same price, those of us who don't should get a discount. We'll see what happens. I'll post any results.

I just heard back from the Executive cust. service department (4 days later...) and was told that GAMEHD would not be available at all this year, but it's one of the things they are considering for the future. But it was clear the gentleman had never read my email. He did not know of any area of the country in which Comcast was carrying GAMEHD.

He did take the time out to tell me I could find some HD baseball on TBS, ESPN, ESPN2, ABC and NESN. I'm pretty sure we won't be seeing any baseball on ABC, and he told me ESPN was channel 854. Maybe it's his first day...

Lets see what they do when I try to make the jump to FIOS. I don't there's much they can do to keep me on as a customer at this point, plus the better PQ of FIOS and the potential of faster internet speed at the same price very soon.

Lets see what they do when I try to make the jump to FIOS. I don't there's much they can do to keep me on as a customer at this point, plus the better PQ of FIOS and the potential of faster internet speed at the same price very soon.

It's going to be lonely when all you guys start jumping to FioS, especially when Mr. Chitchatty leaves for the "nice truck" guys.

-Ken

It's going to be lonely when all you guys start jumping to FioS, especially when Mr. Chitchatty leaves for the "nice truck" guys.

-Ken

They were supposed to do some work in the closet in my apartment. back in January.
They never did. They did do some work on another person's apartment yet she still cannot get it.

Fios will most likely not be coming to my building anytime soon.

Verizon subs came by my condo unit today to wire the inside of the closet. Not too bad but my fiance thinks its an eye sore. The tubing runs up from the rug (along the side by the corner of the wall and up) and through the top of the ceiling. Its a double-sided tube and that they put in and then I'm assuming they run fiber optics through it. If you decide you want the FiOS service then you call Verizon and they will install a box inside of your closet.

I will never get FIOS since the deal between Verizon and Fairpoint closed.

Real sad too. I was psyched about the idea when I first heard about it. The thought of actual competition, who would have thought that was possible?

I will never get FIOS since the deal between Verizon and Fairpoint closed.

Forgive a possibly dumb question - are there ANY signs of fiber deployment visible in Manchester? Any light tan boxes on telephone poles, or places where loops of cable hang from the guide wires that support the copper cable?

The only reason I ask is that I was dumbstruck to see that Fairpoint's Web site for the NH area does actually claim that you can order Fairpoint's fiber network service. I'm sure that's only the case if the FiOS infrastructure is in place in your area.

Tony

My tv is showing ABC broadcasting in 1080i. Has ABC switched, or is this somthing Comcast is doing?

Forgive a possibly dumb question - are there ANY signs of fiber deployment visible in Manchester? Any light tan boxes on telephone poles, or places where loops of cable hang from the guide wires that support the copper cable?

The only reason I ask is that I was dumbstruck to see that Fairpoint's Web site for the NH area does actually claim that you can order Fairpoint's fiber network service. I'm sure that's only the case if the FiOS infrastructure is in place in your area.

Tony

As far as I know, there is no FIOS deployments in Manchester. I haven't seen any signs of a deployment either. No unusual concentrations of Verizon (er, Fairpoint) trucks either.

Bedford has it though (they were one of the first places in NH to get FIOS). To say I am slightly bitter about the next town over getting FIOS is an understatement.

I know people get all caught up about Verizon's fiber optic network that runs straight to the customer's home, but I can tell you that Comcast's network is very similar. The main difference is that Comcast (hybrid network) uses fiber out from their headend facilities to the node on the pole. From there it changes to coax and then goes to the customer's home. Verizon decided to bring the fiber from their headend straight to the home, thus not using any coax at all.
However here is where (at least IMO) the two are pretty much the same. Even though Verizon brings the fiber optic cable from the pole to the home, it still changes to coax (RG-6 cable) once it goes inside of the home, just like Comcast does. I personally believe that Verizon overhypes their competitive advange because in the end, they still wind up using coax instead of fiber opics inside the home.
Now who has the upper hand in terms of capacity and bandwidth? That I'm not totally sure about but one would think they're about even. I know that Comcast is looking at various options to increase capacity, i.e. SDV (switched digital video). And last but not least VOD. Comcast has a superior VOD service compared to Verizon and the satellite companies. Some people I know love On Demand and Comcast is constantly upgrading their VOD offerings and will be increasing content on it, including HD!

I know people get all caught up about Verizon's fiber optic network that runs straight to the customer's home, but I can tell you that Comcast's network is very similar. The main difference is that Comcast (hybrid network) uses fiber out from their headend facilities to the node on the pole. From there it changes to coax and then goes to the customer's home. Verizon decided to bring the fiber from their headend straight to the home, thus not using any coax at all.
However here is where (at least IMO) the two are pretty much the same. Even though Verizon brings the fiber optic cable from the pole to the home, it still changes to coax (RG-6 cable) once it goes inside of the home, just like Comcast does. I personally believe that Verizon overhypes their competitive advange because in the end, they still wind up using coax instead of fiber opics inside the home.
Now who has the upper hand in terms of capacity and bandwidth? That I'm not totally sure about but one would think they're about even. I know that Comcast is looking at various options to increase capacity, i.e. SDV (switched digital video). And last but not least VOD. Comcast has a superior VOD service compared to Verizon and the satellite companies. Some people I know love On Demand and Comcast is constantly upgrading their VOD offerings and will be increasing content on it, including HD!

I also heard around my area that the signal is too hot into the home and they must add a filter to drop it down a few notches. Don't know what effect if any that has on PQ because I don't know anyone that has it. But with the experience I had with their telephone service, I'd still be very hesitant before I'd go back with them. As long as Comcast tries to improve especially it's HD channels, then that will be reason to not think about going anywhere else. Are you listening Comcast!

I know people get all caught up about Verizon's fiber optic network that runs straight to the customer's home, but I can tell you that Comcast's network is very similar. The main difference is that Comcast (hybrid network) uses fiber out from their headend facilities to the node on the pole. From there it changes to coax and then goes to the customer's home. Verizon decided to bring the fiber from their headend straight to the home, thus not using any coax at all.
However here is where (at least IMO) the two are pretty much the same. Even though Verizon brings the fiber optic cable from the pole to the home, it still changes to coax (RG-6 cable) once it goes inside of the home, just like Comcast does. I personally believe that Verizon overhypes their competitive advange because in the end, they still wind up using coax instead of fiber opics inside the home.
Now who has the upper hand in terms of capacity and bandwidth? That I'm not totally sure about but one would think they're about even. I know that Comcast is looking at various options to increase capacity, i.e. SDV (switched digital video). And last but not least VOD. Comcast has a superior VOD service compared to Verizon and the satellite companies. Some people I know love On Demand and Comcast is constantly upgrading their VOD offerings and will be increasing content on it, including HD!


Sorry but you are not totally correct. Virizon has the advantage in terms of bandwidth because the data/voice data is separate from the video data. Comcast uses part of the video bandwidth, 550 MHz, 750 MHz or 850 MHz depending on your network, to offer data and voice services. Also the signal integrity, which affects bandwidth, is affected by the length of the coax run. Verizon Fios uses the whole video bandwidth (850 MHz) just for video and because the coax run is shorter bandwidth does not get affected much. The data/voice data is carried on a different wavelength. Another advantage of fiber optics is that if in 5-10 years Verizon needs more bandwidth for either data or video they can add another wavelength (another light) to their system. Verizon Fios as of today uses three wavelength but I used to work for a company that their system was capable of carrying 80 wavelength on a single fiber. Each wevelenght was capable of carrying 10Gbps worth of data. Think about that for a second.

rveras, hard to argue with you as you seem to have a lot of knowledge in this area. However my initial impression was that Verizon used fiber even inside the home too, which of course we know isn't the case. I can't see Comcast ever letting Verizon overtake them as the leader in cable television, not to mention phone and internet. I know that Comcast is working on improving the overall capacity of their network so that they can at least stay with Verizon, as far as the bandwidth game is concerned. If anyone thinks Comcast is going to sit back and let Verizon move right by them in terms of what they offer their customers and in the overall experience, then you are sadly mistaken.
Its great that consumers have a choice in who they choose to go with as their phone, internet, and cable provider. Competition is good because it forces companies to improve their product, whether they want to or not. If push came to shove and Comcast felt that they needed to run more fiber to stay head-to head with Verizon they would do it. For right now the company doesn't feel that they need to do that to stay competitive.

Hah. Funny you guys are having this conversation, because as you speak there are Verizon contractors using a backhoe digging up my front walkway installing cable. So it's getting closer...;)

I can tell you the line they ran in my closet is huge, and it doesn't look like RG6 to me.

rveras, hard to argue with you as you seem to have a lot of knowledge in this area. However my initial impression was that Verizon used fiber even inside the home too, which of course we know isn't the case. I can't see Comcast ever letting Verizon overtake them as the leader in cable television, not to mention phone and internet. I know that Comcast is working on improving the overall capacity of their network so that they can at least stay with Verizon, as far as the bandwidth game is concerned. If anyone thinks Comcast is going to sit back and let Verizon move right by them in terms of what they offer their customers and in the overall experience, then you are sadly mistaken.
Its great that consumers have a choice in who they choose to go with as their phone, internet, and cable provider. Competition is good because it forces companies to improve their product, whether they want to or not. If push came to shove and Comcast felt that they needed to run more fiber to stay head-to head with Verizon they would do it. For right now the company doesn't feel that they need to do that to stay competitive.


You are right on that Comcast won't let Verizon steal the show however am pretty sure they are worry. I hope Comcast find a way to compete, and they will, because it will be better for us the consumers. However the advantages of fiber are too great and the only disadvantage is the cost. Don't feel disappointed they didn't run fiber thought out the home because doing that is overkill IMHO but it would have been cool.

My tv is showing ABC broadcasting in 1080i. Has ABC switched, or is this somthing Comcast is doing?

Are you watching WCVB? They are owned by the Hearst Corporation which mandates all their local stations broadcast in 1080i. They up-convert ABC's 720p content.

Both Comcast and Verizon have more than enough bandwidth to the home right now. It's true fiber has more inherent capacity, but the short term differentiator appears to be the fact that Verizon is going to get rid of all analog channels this spring/summer, whereas Comcast is unable to do so. That will mean a huge difference in usable bandwidth in Verizon's favor.

I had a Verizon rep come by and sign me up in January, but I never got the call back to set an install date. When I finally called in a few weeks later, they said the service isn't available for me. :confused:

Does any know if Comcast will include ESPN 2 HD to digital classic tier?? If so, when??

Does any know if Comcast will include ESPN 2 HD to digital classic tier?? If so, when??


Why? ESPN2 SD is part of Digital starter.

Audio dropouts at least one a minute tonite on 5-1 - this happens quite often with WCVB. Annoying, but not as bad as sometimes.

I'd be surprised if nobody's mentioned this, but WEATHER HD has been on 847 in Boston for a few days. Any other new ones?

I'd be surprised if nobody's mentioned this, but WEATHER HD has been on 847 in Boston for a few days. Any other new ones?

Is that The Weather Channel HD you are seeing? If so can you describe what is being shown in HD ( studio shots, graphics, weather on the 8's ) as I would be very interested since I don't have it on my system yet.

How many thought the PQ of the Red Sox opener was very poor quality !!!!

DaveFi, its probably the same tube they used when installing my condo unit in the closet. They have all this plastic tubing run throughout the entire complex and then I guess if you want FiOS they run the fiber to your unit and add a box inside of your closet. I'm assuming from the box and out throughout the rest of the unit itself is RG-6 cable and not fiber.

On a side note if you want ESPN 2 HD you only need to be in Digital Starter, but if you want ESPN HD, Discovery HD, TNT HD, and I believe its Universal HD (can't remember the fourth one), then you need at least Digital Classic, which is $10.95 a month in order to receive the additional HD programming. Also as part of Digital Classic are the Encore Movie channels: Encore Action, Encore Love, Encore Mystery, and Encore Westerns. These used to be part of Digital Prefered but are now in Classic.

I know people get all caught up about Verizon's fiber optic network that runs straight to the customer's home, but I can tell you that Comcast's network is very similar. The main difference is that Comcast (hybrid network) uses fiber out from their headend facilities to the node on the pole. From there it changes to coax and then goes to the customer's home. Verizon decided to bring the fiber from their headend straight to the home, thus not using any coax at all.
However here is where (at least IMO) the two are pretty much the same. Even though Verizon brings the fiber optic cable from the pole to the home, it still changes to coax (RG-6 cable) once it goes inside of the home, just like Comcast does. I personally believe that Verizon overhypes their competitive advange because in the end, they still wind up using coax instead of fiber opics inside the home.
Now who has the upper hand in terms of capacity and bandwidth? That I'm not totally sure about but one would think they're about even. I know that Comcast is looking at various options to increase capacity, i.e. SDV (switched digital video). And last but not least VOD. Comcast has a superior VOD service compared to Verizon and the satellite companies. Some people I know love On Demand and Comcast is constantly upgrading their VOD offerings and will be increasing content on it, including HD!

Technology aside, my concern is Comcast compressing several of the 8xy channels that are billed as HD. I don't believe that FIOS does that or needs to. Comcast does. Not good.

BTW rveras was dead right about WDM (Wavelength Division Multiplexing) allowing future addition of many more fiber optic channel choices. Worse yet, Comcast is trapped with its 'last run' limited bandwidth coax in its so twentieth century architecture.

How many thought the PQ of the Red Sox opener was very poor quality !!!!

HD LITE

It has been awful

Why? ESPN2 SD is part of Digital starter.

I am aware of that. I only subscribe to Basic and digital classic. The programming does not make sense to me. I can't get ESPN SD, But HD I can. I cant get TNT SD, but HD I can.
Even more, with classic i get National Geographic Channel(NGC) in SD , why do I not get NGC in HD??

I originally downgraded to basic+classic but I'm not sure the money I am saving is worth it($30) monthly. I was in a bundle before with HBO and Starz. If I want to go back to digital starter will I need to add classic to ESPN, TNT, etc in HD?? Also I've heard there is a charge if you upgrade from basic to starter??

HD LITE

It has been awful

This sucks. I was watching the Masters par 3 today on ESPN HD. The picture quality was unimpressive. Overall soft image, almost fuzzy on some shots. The on-screen graphics lacked sharpness.

I'd be surprised if nobody's mentioned this, but WEATHER HD has been on 847 in Boston for a few days. Any other new ones?

No Weather HD in Manchester, NH. Weatherscan (the biggest waste of a HD channel in the history of Comcast) is still running on 845 here.

No Weather HD in Manchester, NH. Weatherscan (the biggest waste of a HD channel in the history of Comcast) is still running on 845 here.

It is NOT an HD channel. 845 is just a remapping of 245.

This sucks. I was watching the Masters par 3 today on ESPN HD. The picture quality was unimpressive. Overall soft image, almost fuzzy on some shots. The on-screen graphics lacked sharpness.

It just goes to show, once someone mentions HD Lite or 3 HDs in a QAM, ALL HDs from that provider look like crap. Yet, anyone with a cable box and time (albeit not a small amount of time) can see that NESN (from a previous post) and ESPN are not in a 3 HD QAM. There are only 2 HDs in a QAM for the regional sports networks, meaning Comcast isn't touching them. So how can picture quality change unless its coming from ESPN or NESN like that?

I'll be totally honest, I haven't noticed any loss in HD quality on any of my HD channels or SD channels for that matter. Now I know there is another forum claiming that Comcast has compressed their HD signal on some of their HD channels, but I cannot confirm this is the case. Pretty much all we do is take the HD feed that is given to us and pass it along as it is, without doing any tweaking to that original signal. That's why Comcast got voted best in HD quality over satellite since the satellite companies were downgrading their HD signal.
I'm sure once we start removing the analog channels and going all digital (hopefully by next year but who knows at this point), implementing SDV and upgrading to MPEG-4 things will get a lot better. By doing just these three simple things, we will free up a ton of bandwidth on the network which should give us the ability to not only add more HD channels but improve the overall picture quality.

It just goes to show, once someone mentions HD Lite or 3 HDs in a QAM, ALL HDs from that provider look like crap. Yet, anyone with a cable box and time (albeit not a small amount of time) can see that NESN (from a previous post) and ESPN are not in a 3 HD QAM. There are only 2 HDs in a QAM for the regional sports networks, meaning Comcast isn't touching them. So how can picture quality change unless its coming from ESPN or NESN like that?Inquiring minds would like to know. :)

I'll be totally honest, I haven't noticed any loss in HD quality on any of my HD channels or SD channels for that matter. Now I know there is another forum claiming that Comcast has compressed their HD signal on some of their HD channels, but I cannot confirm this is the case. Pretty much all we do is take the HD feed that is given to us and pass it along as it is, without doing any tweaking to that original signal. That's why Comcast got voted best in HD quality over satellite since the satellite companies were downgrading their HD signal. To be fair, that vote was administered before the 3:1 muxing began. As I've said before, there was unquestionably a change made, and it was indeed noticeable on-screen, though subsequent tweaking has essentially reversed the degradation almost completely. Maybe it hasn't affected your area, or you missed the week or two where the problem was evident, but take it from me (since I've got a reputation, here, for sticking up for the businesses in this industry, when they are unfairly attacked) that it was the case.

It is NOT an HD channel. 845 is just a remapping of 245.

Never knew that. Makes me feel a little better.

HD LITE

It has been awful

I thought last nights game looked very good although I will agree opening day was not as detailed and crisp as usual but I attribute that more to the fierce sun conditions on that day than anything Comcast was doing.

Generally I find NESN HD to be very good quality. Opening Day wasn't very good though, but I agree it could have been very bright sun conditions that were causing the problem.

Inquiring minds would like to know. :)

To be fair, that vote was administered before the 3:1 muxing began. As I've said before, there was unquestionably a change made, and it was indeed noticeable on-screen, though subsequent tweaking has essentially reversed the degradation almost completely. Maybe it hasn't affected your area, or you missed the week or two where the problem was evident, but take it from me (since I've got a reputation, here, for sticking up for the businesses in this industry, when they are unfairly attacked) that it was the case.

bicker I'm still seeing minor hiccups on my system and I think it is directly involved with the 3:1 QAM stuffing. Yes it has improved but it has not gone away and might never will until they open up more bandwidth. I think we need a larger response from people in this thread to see really what effect it is having on our system than just you and I saying it's fine now or it isn't yet. Hopefully others will chime in.

I was talking to one of the comcast telemarketers today, they were trying to upgrade me to the $159 package. I asked if I could renew the $129 package, and she said that she doesnt even have that option on her screen. She said however that she is near 100% certain that if you let the 129 package expire that it would then show again and you could renew to that plan.

-Ken

One idea is to have everyone on this board list 3 channels that are analog now which could go to digital only. that would free bandwidth.

Tru TV
Cartoon Network
Comedy central

Those are my 3 that I would not miss on the TV not connected to a digital box.
There are probably alot of homes which have 1or 2 sets with Digital or HD boxes and other cable ready TVs direct connected that would not miss a couple of channels on those sets.

Also, Comcast should take out any old SA analog boxes that are still in the field and replace them with Digital boxes.

One idea is to have everyone on this board list 3 channels that are analog now which could go to digital only. that would free bandwidth.

Tru TV
Cartoon Network
Comedy central

Those are my 3 that I would not miss on the TV not connected to a digital box.
There are probably alot of homes which have 1or 2 sets with Digital or HD boxes and other cable ready TVs direct connected that would not miss a couple of channels on those sets.

Also, Comcast should take out any old SA analog boxes that are still in the field and replace them with Digital boxes.

I hate to disagree with you but two of those channels ( CN & CC) are probably two of the most popular channels on the whole system ( analog or digital) especially with the younger generation. There would be rioting in the streets if those were taken away IMO.

Never mind rioting in the streets, more like rioting in my house! CN, like Nick and Disney are probably the most watched stations for the tweens. And those tweens are probably watching on analog sets without digital boxes in bedrooms and playrooms etc. I'm all for getting rid of as many analog stations as possible (any of the home shopping networks would be a start), but getting rid of the ones kids want to watch would be a very poor decision on Comcast's part.

Never mind rioting in the streets, more like rioting in my house! CN, like Nick and Disney are probably the most watched stations for the tweens. And those tweens are probably watching on analog sets without digital boxes in bedrooms and playrooms etc. I'm all for getting rid of as many analog stations as possible (any of the home shopping networks would be a start), but getting rid of the ones kids want to watch would be a very poor decision on Comcast's part.

My son has an analog tuner card in his computer and comedy central is one of his favorite channels !!!!

-Ken

are there any channels that you mind going to digital only?

Like ALL of them.

The only channels that should stay analog are local broadcast channels and PEG channels.

EVERYTHING else should go digital only.

However,other channels in the limited basic and digital starter tier should be sent UNENCRYPTED (using the 220-500 mhz filter to block out digital starter channels not on limited basic)

of course with digital starter channels with HD simulcasts,only the HD version need be unencrypted (as QAM tuners can down convert the HD signal) :)

I can see it now (over 100 channels including 30 plus HD channels and 48 music channels all WITHOUT a box (Cable compatible QAM tuner needed)

As long as it means no more analog QVC,bring on QVC-HD. :)

I was talking to one of the comcast telemarketers today, they were trying to upgrade me to the $159 package. I asked if I could renew the $129 package, and she said that she doesnt even have that option on her screen. She said however that she is near 100% certain that if you let the 129 package expire that it would then show again and you could renew to that plan.

-Ken

My problem is I HAVE the 159 package.

Fios is available in my community :) just not in my building. :(

I have not called yet about renewal. If i do not the landline goes bye bye and TV goes down to Preffered with HBO added on when Entourage returns and SnE during the NFL season.

My problem is I HAVE the 159 package.

Fios is available in my community :) just not in my building. :(

I have not called yet about renewal. If i do not the landline goes bye bye and TV goes down to Preffered with HBO added on when Entourage returns and SnE during the NFL season.

chitchat - You don't understand the point. If they won't let you renew the $159 package, you let it expire and drop down to digital classic. Wait a day or two and the $159 package should then be available for another year (because you would then be upgrading from classic). If they still won't give it to you then go FioS, which is probably better anyway.

-Ken

chitchat - You don't understand the point. If they won't let you renew the $159 package, you let it expire and drop down to digital classic. Wait a day or two and the $159 package should then be available for another year (because you would then be upgrading from classic). If they still won't give it to you then go FioS, which is probably better anyway.

-Ken

I can verify this as true. My 12 month bundle($129) promotion was about to end. So about a week ago I dropped down to classic. I called back yesterday and all bundles were available again. I resubscribed to the $129 bundle for another 12 months.

The FIOS boxes are being wired on the outside of my apt buildings so any time now...Weeeeee!

Totally off topic, but can the Bruins beat the Canadiens? Game looked great tonight on NESN HD but the B's need to step it up a few notces and finally beat this team.

are there any channels that you mind going to digital only?Quite a few here. We have a TiVo S2 which is still analog-dependent. We regularly watch Bravo, Food Network, CNN, Headline News, A&E, and several others. We don't want those going digital-only.

chitchat - You don't understand the point. If they won't let you renew the $159 package, you let it expire and drop down to digital classic. Wait a day or two and the $159 package should then be available for another year (because you would then be upgrading from classic). If they still won't give it to you then go FioS, which is probably better anyway.

-Ken

FIOS is NOT an option!

It is now :)

Totally off topic, but can the Bruins beat the Canadiens? Game looked great tonight on NESN HD but the B's need to step it up a few notces and finally beat this team.

I'm a die hard Bruins Fan and the answer is simply NO. They are really over matched against them and the best we could hope for is to win 1 or 2 games. The B's have some real fine young players who need more time to develop but I believe it will take about 3 more years before they can seriously compete for the Stanley Cup and thats in addition to some big name veteran players they will need to acquire through free agency and you know what their track record is in that dept.

Quite a few here. We have a TiVo S2 which is still analog-dependent. We regularly watch Bravo, Food Network, CNN, Headline News, A&E, and several others. We don't want those going digital-only.

I think were at the point that either they move all of the extended basic channels to digital or none of them. Because it seems which ever one they choose to move now will only PO a large number of people as witnessed by many of the different suggestions posted here and I think that is something Comcast is trying to avoid. That is why they probably chose the 3:1 QAM stuffing route in the first place.

I think were at the point that either they move all of the extended basic channels to digital or none of them. Because it seems which ever one they choose to move now will only PO a large number of people as witnessed by many of the different suggestions posted here and I think that is something Comcast is trying to avoid. That is why they probably chose the 3:1 QAM stuffing route in the first place.

Well put, Lodef. Remember that we're a tiny minority of their customer base, and they're not in the business of catering to a few. The needs of the many outweigh the needs of the few (or the one). ;-)

And no matter what you or I may think of individual networks, EVERY channel is SOMEBODY'S favorite.

they moved CSPAN2 to digital, and added CSPAN3 .Maybe move CSPAN1 to digital and add CSPAN Radio Maybe towns may allow some PEG channels to go to digital if Comast gave them more channels in digital only. Right now most systems have 5 analog PEG stations. Maybe towns might go for 2 analog PEG stations and 5-8 Digital PEG stations.

Altough there is fiber laid out in some parts of NH, that is it, unless Faripoint lays it. I have a cousin that works for the company that plots out the FTTH for Verizon, and they stopped laying fiber in NH a couple of years ago. Of the towns the have fiber they will still get internet. NO TV...

All analogs need to go. I hate boxes as much as the next guy. 2-way cablecard in all tv's would be great.

Comcast should have given out old boxes for free to all who needed them and wiped analogs out except for the locals/basic tier. There are going to be tons of old boxes with the new cable card boxes coming soon. The Feds gave Comcast a great option that would have given them a fair shot at Fios, and they did not take it. The only reason I have comcast is for the quality HD. The SD sucks. Now HD sucks on some channels and it is only going to get worse with analog clog. Do what Verizon does....analog locals only.

You can't have a future coax system with analogs. The HD on demand is WORSE than DVD quality.

In Boston/Brookline we have always needed a box for every TV. All standard cable was scrambled except basic/locals. Now all the analogs are gone except for basic/locals, but we still have 3HD/Quam squish....Talk about the worst of both worlds! I HATE YOU COMCAST...PLEASE RCN/VERIZON COME HOME SOON.

Comcast should have given out old boxes for free to all who needed them and wiped analogs out except for the locals/basic tier.

Out of curiosity do you have any idea how many boxes that would be? As it is Motorola is having a hard time keeping up with demand for HD & DVR boxes, now you want them to run out of SD digital boxes too? Not to mention the cost associated with that many boxes.


The Feds gave Comcast a great option that would have given them a fair shot at Fios, and they did not take it.

What was the option given to Comcast by the FCC? :confused: Sorry, I don't get a chance to read all the news.

I think were at the point that either they move all of the extended basic channels to digital or none of them. Because it seems which ever one they choose to move now will only PO a large number of people as witnessed by many of the different suggestions posted here and I think that is something Comcast is trying to avoid. That is why they probably chose the 3:1 QAM stuffing route in the first place.Absolutely, on all three counts.

Out of curiosity do you have any idea how many boxes that would be? As it is Motorola is having a hard time keeping up with demand for HD & DVR boxes, now you want them to run out of SD digital boxes too? Not to mention the cost associated with that many boxes.




What was the option given to Comcast by the FCC? :confused: Sorry, I don't get a chance to read all the news.

New cable boxes distributed after July 1st 2007 have to have cable cards (namely the DCH boxes) but not the inexpensive DCT700s.

Systems that commit to going all digital only are exempt.

FIOS can use DCT700s up the ying yang.

Comcast can not.

Is that The Weather Channel HD you are seeing? If so can you describe what is being shown in HD ( studio shots, graphics, weather on the 8's ) as I would be very interested since I don't have it on my system yet.

It is Weather Channel HD on 847 in Boston (more specifically Allston). Right now for instance it's some show called Epic Conditions in HD. We've had it for at least a week and a half.

Interestingly enough, 845 is still there as well.

Am I the only one getting this???

New cable boxes distributed after July 1st 2007 have to have cable cards (namely the DCH boxes) but not the inexpensive DCT700s.

Systems that commit to going all digital only are exempt.

FIOS can use DCT700s up the ying yang.

Comcast can not.
FWIW, Comcast has 24 million cable subscribers. Around 60% have at least one digital box. That means about 10 million subscribers need boxes. And that doesn't count the households that require additional boxes. Figure another 5 million. Let's say the DCT700s cost $50 each. That's $750,000,000 in cable boxes. And that's assuming Motorola can manufacture that many boxes in a relatively short period of time.

I don't see where Comcast had much of a choice.

It is Weather Channel HD on 847 in Boston (more specifically Allston). Right now for instance it's some show called Epic Conditions in HD. We've had it for at least a week and a half.

Interestingly enough, 846 is still there as well.

Am I the only one getting this???

Did you mean 845? Because 846 is Universal HD for me. :D

FWIW, Comcast has 24 million cable subscribers. Around 60% have at least one digital box. That means about 10 million subscribers need boxes. And that doesn't count the households that require additional boxes. Figure another 5 million. Let's say the DCT700s cost $50 each. That's $750,000,000 in cable boxes. And that's assuming Motorola can manufacture that many boxes in a relatively short period of time.

I don't see where Comcast had much of a choice.

Thank you for doing some of the math showing what I was talking about. To add a few things to that though.
The aim was to get a low cost box out there (~$50). The DCT700 was close, but when they had to go to the DCH series (70 & 100), the prices went back up again due to the added cost of the cable card.
Out of the ~14 million households that have at least one box, I would say a vast majority of them would need at least one more box. Many houses have 3 or 4 TV's but only have boxes on 1 or 2 of them. So I think that # you put together illustrates the idea well, but may be missing at least one '0' in it.

FWIW, Comcast has 24 million cable subscribers. Around 60% have at least one digital box. That means about 10 million subscribers need boxes. And that doesn't count the households that require additional boxes. Figure another 5 million. Let's say the DCT700s cost $50 each. That's $750,000,000 in cable boxes. And that's assuming Motorola can manufacture that many boxes in a relatively short period of time.

I don't see where Comcast had much of a choice.

@ $10/month lease fees, that's $1.8bil annually in revenue. Breakeven on cost in 6 months (incl admin and labor).

Gee, do you think the cable companies want alternatives like cable cards (sarc.)?

Did you mean 845? Because 846 is Universal HD for me. :D

Yep, sorry, I don't quite have the lineup memorized yet!

It is Weather Channel HD on 847 in Boston (more specifically Allston). Right now for instance it's some show called Epic Conditions in HD. We've had it for at least a week and a half.

Interestingly enough, 845 is still there as well.

Am I the only one getting this???

Still no Weather Channel HD in Manchester, NH.

here in Concord nh 848 is still that versus/golf hd channel that noone watches

Verses/Golf is on 848.

here in Concord nh 847 is still that versus/golf hd channel that noone watches

I have been watching it every night, I gather your not a hockey fan!

Verses/Golf is on 848.

yup, you're right. sorry

I have been watching it every night, I gather your not a hockey fan!

nope, I don't care for hockey. I personally would rather have bbc america in HD when it comes out than versus/golf... everyone has their own watching preferences. My statement was very one sided.

Verses and Golf channels are Comcast owned channels. The HD on 848 isn't going anywhere,untill they split into 2 separate HD channels.

Wonder when the next new HD channels will be added in Boston area. I envy the Comcast customers in Illonis,Michgan , and NewJersy that have more HD then we do. Forget about Direct TV....

Wonder when the next new HD channels will be added in Boston area. I envy the Comcast customers in Illonis,Michgan , and NewJersy that have more HD then we do. Forget about Direct TV....

You do realize that we have more HD channels than many other parts of the country, don't you?

There are only a few as you mention that may have more!

I know this has been discussed...probably ad nauseam but was curious about HDNet and Comcast. I know its financial and all that, but was just curious if its a dead issue or are there still talks ongoing? With the high def channels being offered currently wouldn't it be a natural to offer one of the only channels thats strictly broadcast in HD?

Thanks

Tom

I know this has been discussed...probably ad nauseam but was curious about HDNet and Comcast. I know its financial and all that, but was just curious if its a dead issue or are there still talks ongoing? With the high def channels being offered currently wouldn't it be a natural to offer one of the only channels thats strictly broadcast in HD?

Thanks

Tom

Keep calling their national progamming dept and your local manager. It helps

They are discussing it w the different cities

Thanks for the reply. Any idea how to find those numbers? Just curious..would they add that (or any channel) just in certain markets instead of a national rollout? How do they usually decide on something like that?

Tom

The Bruins playoff game will be on NESN-HD (851) tonight instead of the Red Sox. The Sox will be on Comcast channel 3 in SD.

Mickey

The Bruins playoff game will be on NESN-HD (851) tonight instead of the Red Sox. The Sox will be on Comcast channel 3 in SD.

Mickey
Or as Glen Ordway likes to say, the game will be under water again.

...The Sox will be on Comcast channel 3 in SD.

MickeyWorst...SD...channel...EVAR...

Worst...SD...channel...EVAR...
Agreed. I can see the game better using my radio.

Mickey

The Bruins playoff game will be on NESN-HD (851) tonight instead of the Red Sox. The Sox will be on Comcast channel 3 in SD.

Mickey

Why can't NESN Plus HD be placed on Mojo 881 so both games can be viewed in HD? The programming on INHD/Mojo has previously been interrupted by HD Sox, Bruins, and Celtics broadcasts when NESN and FSNE/CSNNE did not have full time HD channels.

Why can't NESN Plus HD be placed on Mojo 881 so both games can be viewed in HD? The programming on INHD/Mojo has previously been interrupted by HD Sox, Bruins, and Celtics broadcasts when NESN and FSNE/CSNNE did not have full time HD channels.

Too logical :D

In Chicago, CSN+ HD games are put on Mojo. Sounds more like it's a NESN capacity issue more than a Comcast issue. Also surprised NESN didn't put one of the games (Probably Red Sox) on a local broadcast station.

In Chicago, CSN+ HD games are put on Mojo. Sounds more like it's a NESN capacity issue more than a Comcast issue. Also surprised NESN didn't put one of the games (Probably Red Sox) on a local broadcast station.Probably contractual issues.

I know this has been discussed...probably ad nauseam but was curious about HDNet and Comcast. I know its financial and all that, but was just curious if its a dead issue or are there still talks ongoing? With the high def channels being offered currently wouldn't it be a natural to offer one of the only channels thats strictly broadcast in HD?

Thanks

Tom

I fear that HDNet's moment of opportunity may have come and gone already. With HD being slowly "mainstreamed", the HD audience is coming to more and more resemble average viewers (as opposed to the videophiles that got the whole thing started). And what those viewers want are their established brands. PBS, Food Network and HGTV all justified replacing their HD-only channels with HD-sometimes simulcasts by citing viewer complaints over the fact that they couldn't see their favorite shows on the HD channel (do they notice when those favorite shows look even worse on the simulcast?). And unfortunately, HDNet is pretty much unknown to the general audience. Now HDNet needs Comcast a whole lot more than Comcast is ever going to need HDNet.

I think Cuban's chance to establish the brand with the public was right at the beginning - he should have taken whatever Comcast was willing to offer and promoted the hell out of it in every possible way. But even that might not have been enough. Let's look at an HD-only channel that most HD watchers can see - MOJO. Any hits coming out of there? How much coverage does it get in TV Guide or the entertainment section of your local paper? Are your friends, family and co-workers buzzing about that latest episode of Three Sheets or London Live? If so, I think you're definitely in the minority.

It gives me no joy to say it, but I'm just not sure that today's HD audience is all that interested in supporting a "showcase" channel. At this point I'll be happy if Discovery keeps HD Theater around (have you seen what they're doing with Animal Planet?).

Sad to say but I'll be happily moving to FIOS any as soon as they're done wiring my condo complex any day now. Comcast's PQ has been going down the tubes as of late. It only took them 3yrs later than the rest of Natick, but I finally got it.

I still like the idea of airing NESNplus games on Comcast Sportnet (HD only)

I used to anxiously await news of getting HDNet, too. I figured with all the people who were mourning that Comcast didn't have it, it must be pretty great.

Then I looked at their schedule of programming on their website. I was extremely underwhelmed. Anyone who's never checked it out, do so before getting too excited. All I saw there were very old bad movies and uninteresting non-movie programming. (I just checked again - only one movie newer than 1997)

I know everyone's tastes are different, but I personally don't see the big deal with HDNet. I'd actually rather see us get HD versions of a few more SD channels that we already have, than HDNet.

I'm trying to track down the cause of stuttering and skipping on this week's Bones, when we watched the play back off our TiVo last night. It started out pretty bad and then got better as the episode went on. By mid-way through, the PQ was perfect.

Did anyone else experience this? If not, I expect that this was a problem with the TiVo.

I fear that HDNet's moment of opportunity may have come and gone already. With HD being slowly "mainstreamed", the HD audience is coming to more and more resemble average viewers (as opposed to the videophiles that got the whole thing started). And what those viewers want are their established brands. PBS, Food Network and HGTV all justified replacing their HD-only channels with HD-sometimes simulcasts by citing viewer complaints over the fact that they couldn't see their favorite shows on the HD channel (do they notice when those favorite shows look even worse on the simulcast?). And unfortunately, HDNet is pretty much unknown to the general audience. Now HDNet needs Comcast a whole lot more than Comcast is ever going to need HDNet.

I think Cuban's chance to establish the brand with the public was right at the beginning - he should have taken whatever Comcast was willing to offer and promoted the hell out of it in every possible way. But even that might not have been enough. Let's look at an HD-only channel that most HD watchers can see - MOJO. Any hits coming out of there? How much coverage does it get in TV Guide or the entertainment section of your local paper? Are your friends, family and co-workers buzzing about that latest episode of Three Sheets or London Live? If so, I think you're definitely in the minority.

It gives me no joy to say it, but I'm just not sure that today's HD audience is all that interested in supporting a "showcase" channel. At this point I'll be happy if Discovery keeps HD Theatre around (have you seen what they're doing with Animal Planet?).
Unfortunately, you are correct. An obituary for HDnet. May it rest in peace.

Mickey

I watched the BONES episode last night on my TiVO HD, and it was fine - recorded off Comcast 25-1

Why can't NESN Plus HD be placed on Mojo 881 so both games can be viewed in HD? The programming on INHD/Mojo has previously been interrupted by HD Sox, Bruins, and Celtics broadcasts when NESN and FSNE/CSNNE did not have full time HD channels.

I found it interesting that the broadcast was actually produced in HD (saw the highlights on SportsDesk). Was it broadcast anywhere in HD? There were different "NESNplus" outlets in non-Comcast areas.... 'course, this will all be moot once the Bruins finally succumb up in Montreal.

I found it interesting that the broadcast was actually produced in HD (saw the highlights on SportsDesk). Was it broadcast anywhere in HD?

Sometime a little after 10pm while watching the muddled mess on CN8 it occurred to me that the Bruins game was long done. So I checked on 851 (NESN-HD), and sure enough, the Red Sox game was on (in HD). They obviously switched over to the Sox game at some point. We watched the last inning or so there.

Sometime a little after 10pm while watching the muddled mess on CN8 it occurred to me that the Bruins game was long done. So I checked on 851 (NESN-HD), and sure enough, the Red Sox game was on (in HD). They obviously switched over to the Sox game at some point. We watched the last inning or so there.
It will be interesting to see what they do tomorrow since I think there will be another conflict, this time with the Yankees playing the Sox. I tried to watch some of the game on Channel 3 last night, but my eyes started bleeding.

Mickey

Unfortunately, you are correct. An obituary for HDnet. May it rest in peace.

Mickey

Unfortunately, he is correct. Its really a shame too. I had HDnet for a short time with my previous provider and I liked their programming, some good movies(not great), but adequate. Most of all, for me, MLS soccer, great picture quality, overall pretty good coverage. The only other way to get MLS in HD is ESPN 2 and they don't carry enough games. The Revs games, watching on WSBK 38 in 4:3 SD does not cut it. I mean come on, this is 2008, right??

And the winner is: Sox vs. Yankees. They get the HD treatment on 851, while the Bruins get full-SD on Channel 3. No love for the Bruins.

Mickey

No love for the Bruins.C'mon! It's Sox/Yankees.

C'mon! It's Sox/Yankees.
I actually agree with the decision. But it is a Playoff Game. If NESN were carrying the Celtic playoff games and the same conflict came up, would it have been the same decision? It just indicates the current status of the Bruins in this town.

Mickey

Sad to say but I'll be happily moving to FIOS any as soon as they're done wiring my condo complex any day now. Comcast's PQ has been going down the tubes as of late. It only took them 3yrs later than the rest of Natick, but I finally got it.


OMG! You may have given me the only reason that I could regret having moved out of the People's Republic of MA. Here in NH we've goten rid of Verizon and consequently have no hope of new FIOS service. Comcrap forevah! Bummah!

OMG! You may have given me the only reason that I could regret having moved out of the People's Republic of MA. Here in NH we've goten rid of Verizon and consequently have no hope of new FIOS service. Comcrap forevah! Bummah!

Agreed. We have no hope, unless FIOS deployment costs take a massive nosedive. Comcast or bust I guess.

Is it me or are others noticing PQ differences from game to game(Red Sox) on NESN?? I thought the last two games in Cleveland looked beautiful. Tonight against the Yanks, the image appears soft. Not as sharp and clear as the last two games. Especially with the center field camera, the picture looks slightly "fuzzy". Is this a Comcast thing or NESN thing??

And the winner is: Sox vs. Yankees. They get the HD treatment on 851, while the Bruins get full-SD on Channel 3. No love for the Bruins.

Mickey

I don't agree with this but I guess all they had to do was look around the Garden the last two games and see the place half full with Montreal fans and this was an easy decision.

Is it me or are others noticing PQ differences from game to game(Red Sox) on NESN?? I thought the last two games in Cleveland looked beautiful. Tonight against the Yanks, the image appears soft. Not as sharp and clear as the last two games. Especially with the center field camera, the picture looks slightly "fuzzy". Is this a Comcast thing or NESN thing??

When they are on the road, they might use the home stadium's feed or equipment. I believe in this case it would be the YES network which could result in variable PQ where as if it is at Fenway, the PQ is pretty consistant because it is all NESN equipment.

Agreed. We have no hope, unless FIOS deployment costs take a massive nosedive. Comcast or bust I guess.Hah. Our condo complex has the most # of individual units in MA too, and we had to fight Verizon tooth and nail for years to get them to install FIOS. They just didn't want to bother because it was a huge job (all underground) and they needed access to each and every condo unit. But when they finally acquiesced it only took them about 2mos to do the whole job.

I'm trying to track down the cause of stuttering and skipping on this week's Bones, when we watched the play back off our TiVo last night. It started out pretty bad and then got better as the episode went on. By mid-way through, the PQ was perfect.

Did anyone else experience this? If not, I expect that this was a problem with the TiVo.

I also had some stuttering on Bones in HD using Vista Media Center (CableCard). It wasn't too bad, but noticeable. Curious; do you have issues with American Idol? Idol in HD stutters horribly (almost constantly) for my system for some reason; no other shows/channles give those results.

We had no stuttering whatsoever with AI. It was just Bones.

We had no stuttering whatsoever with AI. It was just Bones.

What channel was Artificial Intelligence on, I missed it! :D

As of 6/3/08 Jewelry TV will be moving to channel 183. With any questions please call 1-800-COMCAST.Does this notation on the bill perhaps mean we might be getting up to three new HD channels?

Does this notation on the bill perhaps mean we might be getting up to three new HD channels?

Never mind, brain fart.

Does this notation on the bill perhaps mean we might be getting up to three new HD channels?
That would be my assumption. But which 3 will it be?

Mickey

That would be my assumption. But which 3 will it be?

Mickey

We should be hearing from chitchat any minute now. :D

THe first 10 minutes of last night's SMALLVILLE on 56-1 was sound-less. THey switched to SD after that and it was OK, but SUPERNATURAL was so far off-sync it was unwatchable.

THe first 10 minutes of last night's SMALLVILLE on 56-1 was sound-less. THey switched to SD after that and it was OK, but SUPERNATURAL was so far off-sync it was unwatchable.

Fortunately I started watching a few minutes in and switched to the SD channel, but I missed the audio on the opening scene. Anyone able to catch it? I think that so far, since WB/CW went HD on Comcast, every single week the Smallville episode has some kind of audio/visual issue, usually around the middle of the hour. They really need to get their act together over at channel 56! :rolleyes:

We should be hearing from chitchat any minute now. :DBefore we do, assuming that this does translate into three new channels, I'm going to put my money on Disney HD, ABC Family HD and Science HD.

Not necessarily my preference (I only really care about getting FX HD), but pretty good, and the wife is especially happy about seeing Kyle XY in HD again.

Before we do, assuming that this does translate into three new channels, I'm going to put my money on Disney HD, ABC Family HD and Science HD.

Not necessarily my preference (I only really care about getting FX HD), but pretty good, and the wife is especially happy about seeing Kyle XY in HD again.
What about The Weather Channel HD, which is already available in the City of Boston?

Mickey

Gosh I hope not.

We should be hearing from chitchat any minute now. :D

HDNet,HDNEt Movies and whatever :)

Really Jewlery TV is a digital channel now. Remapping it to 183 dosen't mean 3 more HD channels.

Hmph. For some reason, I thought it was channel 97...

Comcast is slow in more more analogs to digital. As i have mentioned earlier we need 3 anaogs to move to get the channels we dont get in the Boston burbs that other Comcast systems have We still dont have TLC -HD which others have had since Jan. Hope that ESPN News HD will be included with other ABC offerings.

Anyone want to qestion why I'm a Bruins fan now? Never been so proud of a team that no one gave a chance to and NESN dissed. If they ever find a way to win that 7th game, I think will put to rest all those who haved poked fun at us once and for all.

GO BRUINS!

Anyone want to qestion why I'm a Bruins fan now? Never been so proud of a team that no one gave a chance to and NESN dissed. If they ever find a way to win that 7th game, I think will put to rest all those who haved poked fun at us once and for all.

GO BRUINS!

WOW! WHAT A GAME!!!

GO B'S !!!

I'm a die hard Bruins Fan and the answer is simply NO. They are really over matched against them and the best we could hope for is to win 1 or 2 games. The B's have some real fine young players who need more time to develop but I believe it will take about 3 more years before they can seriously compete for the Stanley Cup and thats in addition to some big name veteran players they will need to acquire through free agency and you know what their track record is in that dept.

The simple answer maybe YES! It's NOT over yet!!!:D

Go Bruins!!

The simple answer maybe YES! It's NOT over yet!!!:D

Go Bruins!!

In reference to that post, I would love to be proven wrong Monday night! Of course we all know the history of 7th games up there but I don't think this team cares. If they were ever to win this, I would consider it one of the greatest upsets in NHL playoff history and the city of Montreal might never recover because they will simply be too embarrassed. Loved the look on those Habs fans faces leaving the Garden last night. :D

In reference to that post, I would love to be proven wrong Monday night! Of course we all know the history of 7th games up there but I don't think this team cares. If they were ever to win this, I would consider it one of the greatest upsets in NHL playoff history and the city of Montreal might never recover because they will simply be too embarrassed. Loved the look on those Habs fans faces leaving the Garden last night. :D

Ditto! It never gets old seeing Habs fans looking despondent:):)

Revenge for 1971. Long live Bobby Orr and Phil Esposito!!!

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080420/ap_on_hi_te/compressed_hd_4

MINNEAPOLIS - In Brent Swanson's basement home theater, there should be nothing drab about "Battlestar Galactica." He's got a high-end projector that beams the picture onto a wall painted like a silver screen, and speakers loom in the corners, flanking two big subwoofers.

Yet when he tuned in Sci Fi HD for a recent episode filmed in high definition, the image was soft and the darkest parts broke up into large blocks with no definition. Explosions, he said, were just dull.

<Story Continues several more paragraphs - with several mentions to AVS Forum>

one thing I had noticed tonight is that surprisingly TNT's coverage of Game 1 was either
a)not blacked out

or b)they cut back in early

I switched between 833 and 852 towards the end and noticed a much brighter picture on 852.

Ditto! It never gets old seeing Habs fans looking despondent:):)
Les Habitants sont finis!

Anyone want to qestion why I'm a Bruins fan now? Never been so proud of a team that no one gave a chance to and NESN dissed. If they ever find a way to win that 7th game, I think will put to rest all those who haved poked fun at us once and for all.

GO BRUINS!


I'm not going to lie I haven't watched a game all season (except 1 I went to through work), but I'm fully on the bandwagon now. I watched this series because, well its the playoffs......And I was pissed when they looked like they were just going to go quietly, but man have they earned my respect...The game Sat night was one of the best hockey games I've ever seen, and my buddies and I were all screaming at the TV.

This should get you fired up for tonight

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=suYsb12Wf1I

ps: It was a total Joke that NESN showed a regular season Red Sox game in HD over a Bruins playoff game, I'm sorry.

ps: It was a total Joke that NESN showed a regular season Red Sox game in HD over a Bruins playoff game, I'm sorry.

Hello? Red Sox / Yankees?

I fully admit, I am jumping on the Bruins bandwagon. Haven't watched a game all season except for when I decided to flip on the 3rd period of Saturday's game, right before the mayhem began. WOW!

Hello? Red Sox / Yankees?

Hello! It's still April! Why do you think it caused such a big bru ha ha in the first place!

Go Bruins!

Hello! It's still April! Why do you think it caused such a big bru ha ha in the first place!

Go Bruins!

If it were ANY other matchup I would assume game 5 would had been on NESN HD.

If it were ANY other matchup I would assume game 5 would had been on NESN HD.

chitchat it still comes down to a playoff game vs 1 of 162 reg season games. Regardless of the match-up it was still the wrong decision and any true sports fan from around here would know that!

We had no stuttering whatsoever with AI. It was just Bones.

Did you get the same stutter last night on Bones? I had it pretty bad on my Vista Media Center PC. Would love to know if it is just my setup at this point.

I'm not sure what the parameters are for a "stuttering" BONES, but mine, on Comcast thru TiVO HD, was fine on FoxHD.

Did you get the same stutter last night on Bones?Nope, it was perfect last night.

Anyone else have PQ issues last night? I was getting a lot of macroblocking and pixelization on both the baseball & hockey games. Is Comcast going to be adding more HD channels soon and was tinkering with the 3:1 muxing again?

If so, PLEASE Comcast just add Extended Basic to digital and leave our HD channels alone!!!

I watched American Idol live via Comcast last night and had no problems.

PLEASE Comcast leave Extended Basic analog so my TiVo Series 2 can still do its job.

I watched American Idol live via Comcast last night and had no problems.

PLEASE Comcast leave Extended Basic analog so my TiVo Series 2 can still do its job.

bicker I would not have expected anything less from you. But considering this is a HD forum, I believe you are in the minority here on this one. ;)

I can live with that, though I wonder... What percentage of HDTV owners with Comcast cable service have at least one SD analog tuner connected? I wouldn't be surprised to learn that a majority of HDTV owners fall into my category.

I can live with that, though I wonder... What percentage of HDTV owners with Comcast cable service have at least one SD analog tuner connected? I wouldn't be surprised to learn that a majority of HDTV owners fall into my category.
Agreed. I still have two (seldom used) SD sets connected to analog. And my father lives in an eldery facility with most residents connected to SD lifeline basic. It is hard for me to imagine a full switch by Cable to digital until someone comes up with an inexpensive D-->A converter.

Mickey

Inexpensive, of course, being a matter of opinion, and the way most Americans are, and the way the economy is, figure it implies an amount far lower than a lot of us would be ready to pay.

Inexpensive, of course, being a matter of opinion, and the way most Americans are, and the way the economy is, figure it implies an amount far lower than a lot of us would be ready to pay.

You can always watch basic ( 2-23 ) cable on those tv's and not have it cost a penny more. Something many people should start thinking about and hopefully soon!

I'm not sure how widespread the sentiment would be, but at least for me, that wouldn't make sense. Most of those channels are also provided in HD, and we'll make a point of recording them digitally on the TiVo HD and watching them on the HDTV, instead of recording them on the TiVo S2 and watching them via analog. Right now, the ONLY channels I record on my TiVo S2 are Travel (Lots of travel shows), E! (The Soup, etc.), A&E (Top Chef), etc. Those are the only channels that I personally would care about keeping as analog.

I cant see why just a couple of analog channels cant go to digital only. An example is Tru TV, Examples to leave analog, NESN,ESPN, CNN, Weather Channel.

The reason is tied up with the question, "Why do you get to choose?" I see no reason why NESN and ESPN shouldn't go digital only. We have different perspectives, both of which Comcast must consider.

I agree with what is being said here, I'm actually in both camps :) On the one hand I have two HDTVs in the house and want the best PQ I can get (meaning less compression, QAM stuffing). On the other hand I also have a few SDTVs hooked up to Comcast cable that I still want to use to watch channels like NESN and ESPN. For example, I have my old SDTV in the basement in front of an exercise bike, I don't really care if I have HD down there, but I do care that I can watch a Red Sox game while exercising.

I still like the idea of EVERYTHING beyond local broadcast and PEG channels going digital only.

I would also like the idea of having all digital starter channels be unencrypted wand within the220-500mhz filter area to protect viewing from those who have just limited basic. In case of an HD simucast (ESPN for example) ESPN-HD would be unencrypted while ESPN-SD would be encrypted (for those with just SD digital boxes)

I know in 2009 Motorola is putting out THREE NEW models. (MPEG2/4)

a)one that excepts SD AND HD channels put puts out channels in SD format only.

b)a non DVR HD box.

c) an HD-DVR box

unless more channels go digital only , we will fall behind other systems both Comcast and other operators with HD content.

Ok, so a comcast technician shows up(unannounced) today and says there is a lot of signal interference coming from my house. He had some device(green) shaped like a gun(like a radar detector) with two long antennae. It made a loud car-alarm like sound when interference was detected. It seemed to be the loudest when pointing device toward my wireless router?? He also noted some interference on the outside of the home. He troubleshooted a few things but still could not identify what could be causing the interference.
I did recently have my service upgraded from basic to digital(they took filter off the pole). Also I have noticed in the last few days that my wireless internet connection would intermittently be unrecognized. I've had to recycle the router frequently for my internet connection to reconnect. Until this point I've had no issues with internet and/or router.
I have noted some softness in image quality on HD channels, not sure if its a result of QAM stuffing or this signal interference?? Thoughts??

unless more channels go digital only , we will fall behind other systems both Comcast and other operators with HD content.I'm okay with that for now. As I mentioned in the "What's next..." thread, all I care about is getting FX HD, and to be honest, FX SD is good enough, if it means I get to keep analog extended basic.

Y'know, allegedly, the FCC is really pushing MSOs towards going all-digital. If that's really true, wouldn't it be nice if they actually required it? As a capitalist, I'd object to that, but it sure would serve the aims of some in this thread. Without the "cover" of complying with a requirement, satisfaction of what those folks want is invariably going to be dependent on the struggle between these conflicting market forces (i.e., what all-analog people want, what people like me want, and what the folks who want more and truer HD want), which is much less likely to lead to their satisfaction. What can these folks do to get the FCC to push harder?

I did talk with a rep at Comcast today (after unintentionally being hung up on twice)

They said i could renew. :)

Good thing as I just got a note from Verizon asking me to do a DSL/tradional landline duet package.

NO Fios in my building anytime soon.

Ok, so a comcast technician shows up(unannounced) today and says there is a lot of signal interference coming from my house. He had some device(green) shaped like a gun(like a radar detector) with two long antennae. It made a loud car-alarm like sound when interference was detected. It seemed to be the loudest when pointing device toward my wireless router?? He also noted some interference on the outside of the home. He troubleshooted a few things but still could not identify what could be causing the interference.
I did recently have my service upgraded from basic to digital(they took filter off the pole). Also I have noticed in the last few days that my wireless internet connection would intermittently be unrecognized. I've had to recycle the router frequently for my internet connection to reconnect. Until this point I've had no issues with internet and/or router.
I have noted some softness in image quality on HD channels, not sure if its a result of QAM stuffing or this signal interference?? Thoughts??

filter off the pole? Something uncapped?

The only thing Ican think of is two fold

1) some tech accidently uncapped your modem...this means your speed way way above normal

2) your wireless internet isn't encrypted.

Combine that together and you might have some kid having a joy ride using all your bandwidth...

this is more of a rant at comcast...apparently they called my residence last time just past 8 about payment...this seems a bit odd

1) they didn't show up on the caller id

2) they post date their payment schedual anyway so they bill one month ahead of time...it's impossible to be late for payment for a service that hasn't been provided

3) they said if they didn't receive payment that it would be shut it off tuesday? um excuse me?

at this point I can't wait for this hd switchover to happen and watch their customer base erode.

#2, at least, is not true. It is very much possible to late paying for a service that is charged-for in advance. We may not like paying for services in advance, but it is a wholly legitimate way of doing business. And failure to comply with that element of the terms of service is very sound foundation for terminating service.

My guess is that as soon as the issues you raise have any significant impact on their subscriber base, they'll change their policies and pricing, and the vast majority of folks out there in the world will flock to Comcast in recognition of their turned-leaf.

filter off the pole? Something uncapped?

The only thing Ican think of is two fold

1) some tech accidently uncapped your modem...this means your speed way way above normal

2) your wireless internet isn't encrypted.

Combine that together and you might have some kid having a joy ride using all your bandwidth...

By filter off the pole, I simply meant that when you have basic vs expanded service there is a "filter" or block at the pole that will either allow/not allow the exta channels through(based on whatever service you subscribe to).
My wireless internet is encrypted(WPA), D-Link router.

By filter off the pole, I simply meant that when you have basic vs expanded service there is a "filter" or block at the pole that will either allow/not allow the exta channels through(based on whatever service you subscribe to).
My wireless internet is encrypted(WPA), D-Link router.

What the Comcast tech is referring to when he is using that radar gun type unit is that there are loose fittings, bad splitters, or bad cabling in your house. When you have any or all of those things the signal coming down the cable from the plant can leak out into the open air. Now that isn't so bad. What makes leakage bad is that other signals (over air broadasters, HAM radio, etc) can get INTO your house cable (and subsequently back into the cable plant) which can cause interference with all of your cable services (phone, video, internet) depending on what frequency that incoming signal is running at.

If you've recently had work done, then likely around the point of where the tech was doing work there could be a loose/bad fitting, splitter, or ground block.

What the Comcast tech is referring to when he is using that radar gun type unit is that there are loose fittings, bad splitters, or bad cabling in your house. When you have any or all of those things the signal coming down the cable from the plant can leak out into the open air. Now that isn't so bad. What makes leakage bad is that other signals (over air broadasters, HAM radio, etc) can get INTO your house cable (and subsequently back into the cable plant) which can cause interference with all of your cable services (phone, video, internet) depending on what frequency that incoming signal is running at.

If you've recently had work done, then likely around the point of where the tech was doing work there could be a loose/bad fitting, splitter, or ground block.

Thanks for answering that, I had just dug up a similar post about this from a couple months ago:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=12783367#post12783367

They usually start on the street & if it can't be fixed outside they try to get in the house to fix it in there. As for the guy not finding the real source in house it could be because some electronics also give out the same frequency as the one used by the 'leakage gun', some microwave ovens are one example. Sometimes to really track down the offender you have to start unplugging equipment in the house (which customers love).

Thanks for answering that, I had just dug up a similar post about this from a couple months ago:

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=12783367#post12783367

They usually start on the street & if it can't be fixed outside they try to get in the house to fix it in there. As for the guy not finding the real source in house it could be because some electronics also give out the same frequency as the one used by the 'leakage gun', some microwave ovens are one example. Sometimes to really track down the offender you have to start unplugging equipment in the house (which customers love).

Thanks for reference. It's becoming a little more clear as to what/where the "leak" may be coming from. I'll check all my connections again. Would upgrading my splitter remedy it?(currently using the one Comcast installed). Also my basment is partially finished(maybe 30%) and the previous owners have a clutter/mess of cabling down there. It'll be a while before I can clean up that mess. I don't have the need for cable in the basement YET. But I dont think I would get rid of all cabling that is down there.
Would a wireless rounter give out the same frequency? The technician seemed to be surprised that it would be coming from the router??

Ok, so a comcast technician shows up(unannounced) today and says there is a lot of signal interference coming from my house. He had some device(green) shaped like a gun(like a radar detector) with two long antennae. It made a loud car-alarm like sound when interference was detected. It seemed to be the loudest when pointing device toward my wireless router?? He also noted some interference on the outside of the home. He troubleshooted a few things but still could not identify what could be causing the interference.
I did recently have my service upgraded from basic to digital(they took filter off the pole). Also I have noticed in the last few days that my wireless internet connection would intermittently be unrecognized. I've had to recycle the router frequently for my internet connection to reconnect. Until this point I've had no issues with internet and/or router.
I have noted some softness in image quality on HD channels, not sure if its a result of QAM stuffing or this signal interference?? Thoughts??

I personally wouldn't let him. I don't like that they expect to be able to just show up and want access.

Anyone watching the celtics on TNT (833)?

I'm getting a lot of audio drops and noise. Is it just me?

Anyone watching the celtics on TNT (833)?

I'm getting a lot of audio drops and noise. Is it just me?

Have you tried 852?

Have you tried 852?

Ditto. The PQ on CSN is better than TNT, IHMO.

Anyone having difficulty with the Red Sox game on NESN HD? On my TV, it looks like the frame rate has been cut by a third, to something like 10 frames per second. Very jerky and very hard to watch. It's the same with TNT HD (showing NBA game) and CSN HD (showing Celtics pregame), though ESPN HD looks fine right now (showing baseball pregame; we'll see what happens when there's actual sports being shown; right now it's just the pregame banter between the announcers). It's just awful, and I've dropped down to SD because of it.

I personally wouldn't let him. I don't like that they expect to be able to just show up and want access.

I can understand why you would not let them. But if you had a leak would you want it investigated??

Yes most people would want it investigated/fixed. It can cause problems with the service in your house, problems with the cable plant or problems with other services using the same frequencies 'leaking' out. Depending on how bad the leak is the cable co. may (and will) interrupt service until it's fixed. This unfortunately must be done to stay in compliance with FCC regulations. And as most people know, you don't wanna mess with the FCC if you don't have to.

Yes most people would want it investigated/fixed. It can cause problems with the service in your house, problems with the cable plant or problems with other services using the same frequencies 'leaking' out. Depending on how bad the leak is the cable co. may (and will) interrupt service until it's fixed. This unfortunately must be done to stay in compliance with FCC regulations. And as most people know, you don't wanna mess with the FCC if you don't have to.

Well my service has not been interrupted so I guess the leak is not that "bad".

A Series 2 TiVo Comcast question here.
My TiVo is connected to the analog phone line for dialup to download the guide.
I'm considering going all Comcast (no FIOS here in NH or Sat TV allowed in the condo) including the phone. Does anyone have any experience about TiVo Series 2 modems dialing thru the Comcast cable phone system?

There hasnt been add new HD channels added since the winter. When do you think we will get the next round?

Probably not for a while. We've got almost all of the most important HD channels, and addition of any more would require losing an analog channel, which is likely to upset as many customers as adding HD channels would please. I'm going to guess September or October before we see more HD channels.

Probably not for a while. We've got almost all of the most important HD channels, and addition of any more would require losing an analog channel, which is likely to upset as many customers as adding HD channels would please. I'm going to guess September or October before we see more HD channels.

Not necessarily. Comcast SportSnet and Verses/Golf HD are each on THEIR own CHANNEL.

"Hmmmmmmmm"

"Hmmmmmmmm"

I don't get it either! chitchat might have hit the bar early tonight. :D

No I get it. I don't understand why these two HD channels are on separate QAM channels, by their lonesome. Very peculiar given the circumstances.

Are we going to be getting ABC Family, Science and Disney soon do you think? These seem to be going around:

Comcast HD Trio (http://www.engadgethd.com/2008/05/02/comcasts-science-disney-abc-family-hd-trio-heads-to-richmon/)

No I get it. I don't understand why these two HD channels are on separate QAM channels, by their lonesome. Very peculiar given the circumstances.

Because they are sports orientated channels, lots of fast motion which does not go well with the QAM Stuffing and since they are Comcast owned , they would like to put their best image forward.

I was equating your response of we have all the important HD channels already with chitchats response, now I realize he was talking about space but I rather not add anymore and leave those two channels as is.

And if they moved EB to digital, we wouldn't have to discuss any of this nonsense and they can revert back to the old formula of muxing and non compressed HD channels!

Are we going to be getting ABC Family, Science and Disney soon do you think? These seem to be going around:

Comcast HD Trio (http://www.engadgethd.com/2008/05/02/comcasts-science-disney-abc-family-hd-trio-heads-to-richmon/)

Yes.

I rather not add anymore and leave those two channels as is.Not me. I don't care about either of those channels at all, and would prefer both of them at least get 2:1 muxed to give us to more HD channels.

And if they moved EB to digital, we wouldn't have to discuss any of this nonsense and they can revert back to the old formula of muxing and non compressed HD channels!I want extended basic to remain in analog. I have a TiVo S2 hooked up on a television we mostly watch Food Network, Travel Channel, A&E, E!, etc.

No offense, but I hope my personal preference is what they end up satisfying, in both cases.

Not me. I don't care about either of those channels at all, and would prefer both of them at least get 2:1 muxed to give us to more HD channels.

I want extended basic to remain in analog. I have a TiVo S2 hooked up on a television we mostly watch Food Network, Travel Channel, A&E, E!, etc.

No offense, but I hope my personal preference is what they end up satisfying, in both cases.

Sorry, but pretty sure it's going to be broadcast only in analog (especially after 2/17/09).

You could always try contacting the FCC & tell them to hold off with the digital transition & to give all the money back they just made in the spectrum auction though. At least until your Tivo S2 dies. :D

Sorry, but pretty sure it's going to be broadcast only in analog (especially after 2/17/09).

You could always try contacting the FCC & tell them to hold off with the digital transition & to give all the money back they just made in the spectrum auction though. At least until your Tivo S2 dies. :D

It can't happen soon enough for me!

bicker should just put that S2 on Ebay now before it's too late. :D

Sorry, but pretty sure it's going to be broadcast only in analog (especially after 2/17/09).Really? I don't doubt it, but I'm also not sure that even Comcast has made that decision yet. While that date seems more likely than others for the change, it is as likely to be pushed out to 2012, at this point.

You could always try contacting the FCC & tell them to hold off with the digital transition & to give all the money back they just made in the spectrum auction though. At least until your Tivo S2 dies. :DNah, my needs are no where near that important in the grand scheme of things. We're all pretty insignificant, in the big picture.

bicker should just put that S2 on Ebay now before it's too late. :DIt is a lifetime unit, so it does have residual value, true. However, even if we lose analog extended basic, there are ways to hook it up to a cable box. We have to put it in a light-tight enclosure, and fish an IR blaster cable through a small hole in the back. We had it working in the living room, but unfortunately there isn't enough room where the S2 is now for that. We'd basically have to buy new furniture for the room. Yish. By the time Comcast removes analog extended basic (again, let's say 2012), I'm sure we'll have bought new furniture for that room, so I think we'll be set. Of course, by then, the S2 probably won't be working any longer.

A Series 2 TiVo Comcast question here.
My TiVo is connected to the analog phone line for dialup to download the guide.
I'm considering going all Comcast (no FIOS here in NH or Sat TV allowed in the condo) including the phone. Does anyone have any experience about TiVo Series 2 modems dialing thru the Comcast cable phone system?

I have Comcast Digital Voice phone service and my Series 1 tivo dials out using it with no problems. Faxes in or out should be fine as well.

I have Comcast Digital Voice phone service and my Series 1 tivo dials out using it with no problems. Faxes in or out should be fine as well.

Again, my continued thanks for the excellent information in this forum.

Anyone else see the segment on Ch 5 news last night where Susan Wornick tells people how to lower your cable bill or phone service. LOL! I can see it now, all these people calling and asking for the retention Dept. How long will it be before they start telling people "See Ya" when the demand will start becoming to great of a hit on their profit margin!

Out her in Metrowest the Sox in HD is horrible tonight. Unwatchable. :( :mad: Horrid pixelization and sound cut out. Called Comcast, got the usual " the signal from your box seems fine" answer but they opened a ticket. This has happened maybe 2 or 3 times since the season started. Always in HD NESN, SD is fine.

Anyone else seeing this or reported it to them?

Out her in Metrowest the Sox in HD is horrible tonight. Unwatchable. :( :mad: Horrid pixelization and sound cut out. Called Comcast, got the usual " the signal from your box seems fine" answer but they opened a ticket. This has happened maybe 2 or 3 times since the season started. Always in HD NESN, SD is fine.

Anyone else seeing this or reported it to them?

Looks perfectly normal here...

Has anyone else noticed occassional "stuttering" . Sometimes there is a very short and very quick repeat. Is that the signal or my dvr or what? This is not common at all but I have seen it several times in the last week and it is weird (and annoying).

Happens to me occasionally on WCVB and WLVI DTs.

Comcast took away my TND-HD and some other channels when I downgraded and saved the $7.95 / month. It kills me that I get TNT with what I'm paying, but have to get an upgraded package to get TND-HD.

Comcast took away my TND-HD and some other channels when I downgraded and saved the $7.95 / month. It kills me that I get TNT with what I'm paying, but have to get an upgraded package to get TND-HD.

What is unusual here? You expected to pay less and get the same channels? :confused:

Has anyone else noticed occassional "stuttering" . Sometimes there is a very short and very quick repeat. Is that the signal or my dvr or what? This is not common at all but I have seen it several times in the last week and it is weird (and annoying).I'm having skips; between 12 and 50 per hour; like 1/2 second missing. Is that what you're seeing? However, I'm seeing that OTA, not via Comcast.

I have noticed both skips and stuttering. What is going on I wonder?

Comcast took away my TND-HD and some other channels when I downgraded and saved the $7.95 / month. It kills me that I get TNT with what I'm paying, but have to get an upgraded package to get TND-HD.

Comcast continues to keep its original HD launch channel in the Digital Classic package. These channels are TNT-HD, ESPN-HD, and Discovery Theater. There has been rumors that the channels were going to switch to standard cable.

With FIOS approved in Lakeville I have a decision to make although I'm 99.9% sure I'm jumping ship for the cable/internet/phone bundle.

Tell me why this may be a mistake?

From my standpoint it seems FIOS is superior in most key ways (network performance, picture quality, internet download/upload speeds). Here are the only other factors I can see:

Neutral - same awful Motorola box performance/dvr software
Negative - lose the following HD content (Vs, Animal Plane, CNN, History, Mojo, Sci-Fi, TBS 7 USA)
Negative - lose larger on demand library
Positive - gain the followng HD content (HD Net, HD Net Movies, Lifetime, TMC, Multiple PBS)
Source: http://www.whereishd.com/
Positive - ability to view DVR recordings on multiple boxes
Positive - price - they are quoting approx a $30 savings right now although I'd want that price locked in for 2-3 years

Thanks in advance for any thoughts you guys may have.

With FIOS approved in Lakeville I have a decision to make although I'm 99.9% sure I'm jumping ship for the cable/internet/phone bundle.

Tell me why this may be a mistake?

From my standpoint it seems FIOS is superior in most key ways (network performance, picture quality, internet download/upload speeds). Here are the only other factors I can see:

Neutral - same awful Motorola box performance/dvr software
Negative - lose the following HD content (Vs, Animal Plane, CNN, History, Mojo, Sci-Fi, TBS 7 USA)
Negative - lose larger on demand library
Positive - gain the followng HD content (HD Net, HD Net Movies, Lifetime, TMC, Multiple PBS)
Source: http://www.whereishd.com/
Positive - ability to view DVR recordings on multiple boxes
Positive - price - they are quoting approx a $30 savings right now although I'd want that price locked in for 2-3 years

Thanks in advance for any thoughts you guys may have.

The ability to view DVR recordings on other boxes is really Neutral because Comcast is in the process of implementing that option.

HD channels are personal preferences and only you can decide which ones you rather have.

As for price, I don't think there will be a big difference in the long run. FIOS is a lot more expensive to install for Verizon and it will only be a matter of time before it catches or even surpasses Comcast's rates IMO.

PQ might be better now with FIOS but I believe this is only temporary until Comcast goes all digital which could be as early as Feb. 09 or sooner.

In the end I don't think theres that much differences between the two.

With FIOS approved in Lakeville I have a decision to make although I'm 99.9% sure I'm jumping ship for the cable/internet/phone bundle.

Tell me why this may be a mistake?

From my standpoint it seems FIOS is superior in most key ways (network performance, picture quality, internet download/upload speeds). Here are the only other factors I can see:

Neutral - same awful Motorola box performance/dvr software
Negative - lose the following HD content (Vs, Animal Plane, CNN, History, Mojo, Sci-Fi, TBS 7 USA)
Negative - lose larger on demand library
Positive - gain the followng HD content (HD Net, HD Net Movies, Lifetime, TMC, Multiple PBS)
Source: http://www.whereishd.com/
Positive - ability to view DVR recordings on multiple boxes
Positive - price - they are quoting approx a $30 savings right now although I'd want that price locked in for 2-3 years

Thanks in advance for any thoughts you guys may have.

Lakeville, HUH? I'm very close by(Berkley, MA). Any idea when Fios is moving into my area? I've tried my address at verizon's website and my address still does not qualify.

Hi forum,

I apologize in advance if this is the wrong place to post, but I was wondering if anyone can recommend a place / forum to sell my now-unused antenna and pre-amp. It's one of the better models for fringe areas, so I'd expect that someone would thing that someone out there would be interested.

I tried Craigslist and got no love. Seems like E-bay is a bad choice because it big and a pain to ship. Any advice would be appreciated...

Thanks in advance.

Spoke to a CSR today. " No new HD channels this month, but more later this year."

That and $4 will get you a coffee at Starbucks.

The ability to view DVR recordings on other boxes is really Neutral because Comcast is in the process of implementing that option.I know I read about this somewhere, but I haven't heard any more details. Does anyone know how this will be done? Is it going to be an extra that you'll have to pay for in addition to the DVR fees? Just curious.

I'd bet the farm that Comcast hasn't made a decision with regard to pricing, yet.

Spoke to a CSR today. " No new HD channels this month, but more later this year."

New HD channels coming this week: Disney (824), ABC Family (826), and Science Channel (866). This comes from a very reliable source.

New HD channels coming this week: Disney (824), ABC Family (826), and Science Channel (866). This comes from a very reliable source.
Interesting. Any changes being made to make room for these?

Mickey

I myself would not mind the Weather channel (847 in Boston) and stop mapping Weather scan to 845.

Interesting. Any changes being made to make room for these?

Mickey

None that I have been told. Behind the scene changes could have happened months ago and then its a matter of signing the deal.

With FIOS approved in Lakeville I have a decision to make although I'm 99.9% sure I'm jumping ship for the cable/internet/phone bundle.

Tell me why this may be a mistake?

From my standpoint it seems FIOS is superior in most key ways (network performance, picture quality, internet download/upload speeds). Here are the only other factors I can see:

Neutral - same awful Motorola box performance/dvr software
Negative - lose the following HD content (Vs, Animal Plane, CNN, History, Mojo, Sci-Fi, TBS 7 USA)
Negative - lose larger on demand library
Positive - gain the followng HD content (HD Net, HD Net Movies, Lifetime, TMC, Multiple PBS)
Source: http://www.whereishd.com/
Positive - ability to view DVR recordings on multiple boxes
Positive - price - they are quoting approx a $30 savings right now although I'd want that price locked in for 2-3 years

Thanks in advance for any thoughts you guys may have.

Speaking as a Middleboro Comcaster who defected to FIOS, most items are as mentioned a wash. Supposedly today FIOS in Mass. went all digital and over the next few weeks we're getting about 26 new HD channels which is essentially a catch-up to Comcast. I think that HD PQ is a tad better - less noise, macro-blocking, etc. than I used to see on Comcast although the usual GIGO principle still applies.

Still for me the big difference is the Moto box performance. For some reason the FIOS QIP boxes simply don't bog down like the Comcast boxes used to (not sure if they've fixed that or not). On the DVR, there's no Swap functionality like the Comcast boxes but if you toggle between 2 stations it automatically caches them so you can hit the Last button and rewind, etc.

On-Demand is way behind Comcast although its gotten better...except that browsing OD stinks. It's slow and bogs down like the Comcast boxes did watching "live" programming. From what I've read the problem is that FIOS uses your internet connection to read the OD stuff and at least with the 5 down/2 up package I have it's not that good. Not a deal breaker for me since I don't use OD very much anyways.

Interesting. Any changes being made to make room for these?

Mickey

Does anyone know how much HD programming is on these channels? I hope it's not more like that A&E garbage ( Waste of Bandwidth).

FWIW, ever since the firmware on my Moto HD box (3416, Comcast) has been updated, I've had no problems at all.

(I can't believe I just wrote that)

I myself would not mind the Weather channel (847 in Boston) and stop mapping Weather scan to 845.

I second that motion. I still wonder every time I see 845 "Why is this channel here? Does someone higher up in charge of this not realize that there's a SD channel in the middle of the HD ones?"

Does anyone know how much HD programming is on these channels? ABC Family provides Kyle XY (which was re-purposed on ABC in HD in its first season, remember).

I second that motion. I still wonder every time I see 845 "Why is this channel here? Does someone higher up in charge of this not realize that there's a SD channel in the middle of the HD ones?"

I LIKE Weatherscan. It still doesn't belong on 845.

Of course if it were up to me

a)EVERYTHING beyond local broadcast channels and PEG channels would be DIGITAL only.

b)ALL digital channels in Digital Starter would be UNENCRYPTED!

c)there would be two H channels :)

New HD channels coming this week: Disney (824), ABC Family (826), and Science Channel (866). This comes from a very reliable source.

I would start checking around midnight each evening until they pop up. :)

My "reliable source" tells me Comcast will announce on Thursday that they're moving a number of Expanded Basic channels from analog to digital throughout the region on July 15th.

My "reliable source" tells me Comcast will announce on Thursday that they're moving a number of Expanded Basic channels from analog to digital throughout the region on July 15th.

Might be sooner than that. I just received a mailer from Comcast indicating some form of analog cut-off on or around June 28. LINK (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13852659#post13852659)

So far, in this thread, the sources of the rumors were all from NH... Is this just a NH thing? Does anyone have reason to believe that any of these rumors apply to MA? chit???

Might be sooner than that. I just received a mailer from Comcast indicating some form of analog cut-off on or around June 28. LINK (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13852659#post13852659)
That seems to apply to people who already have a box (analog). What about people with box-less analog TV's?

Mickey

My hunches say the latter date may apply region wide. (July 15th)

We shall have to wait for the Thursday announcement (That could also be the day we get those new HD channels)

That seems to apply to people who already have a box (analog). What about people with box-less analog TV's?

Sounds like you'll have to pony up and rent a STB.

Sounds like you'll have to pony up and rent a STB.
I already have 3 ponies (3 HD-STB's). Today, I am actually looking out for the other guy.

Mickey

I already have 3 ponies (3 HD-STB's). Today, I am actually looking out for the other guy.

Mickey

Not me, the hell with them! ( I have 3 HD boxes also). :D

Just because Comcast is phasing out analog cable boxes doesn't mean they are getting rid of analog channels all together at this point. They are proactively getting rid of crap hardware.

-Ken

Any idea of how many analog channels in expanded basic might be going digital. 1analog=2 or 3 (prefer 2) HDs

Just because Comcast is phasing out analog cable boxes doesn't mean they are getting rid of analog channels all together at this point. They are proactively getting rid of crap hardware.

-Ken
Except they seem to be telling these people in that notification that their analog boxes won't work anymore. I interpret that to mean that they will be sending digital-only.

Mickey

Any idea of how many analog channels in expanded basic might be going digital. 1analog=2 or 3 (prefer 2) HDs

Hopefully around 40. :)

Hopefully around 40. :)

Sounds good to me!

And I have no problem with Weatherscan either, as you stated, it just doesn't need to be in the line-up twice (especially not in the middle of HD's). It's just fine down at channel 245. 8xx channels should only be HD, it's getting kinda crowded & disorganized up there in those channels as it is.

Sounds good to me!

And I have no problem with Weatherscan either, as you stated, it just doesn't need to be in the line-up twice (especially not in the middle of HD's). It's just fine down at channel 245. 8xx channels should only be HD, it's getting kinda crowded & disorganized up there in those channels as it is.

I agree completely. It's a PITA when I'm channel surfing and the TV has to re-sync on 845 and then re-sync on the next channel (I leave SD at 480i).

I agree completely. It's a PITA when I'm channel surfing and the TV has to re-sync on 845 and then re-sync on the next channel (I leave SD at 480i).

Just add only the HD channels to your favorites list and you won't have that problem, thats what I do!

Tech question here. I went to the local billing center in Milford, and to add a DVR. They ended up giving me the older DCT3412 I instead of the newer DCH style boxes. I know they have them since their demo TV was using a DCH box. Are there any functional differences between the two? How about hard drive size?

New HD channels coming this week: Disney (824), ABC Family (826), and Science Channel (866). This comes from a very reliable source.

May 15th 12:21 am. 16th 106 am Where are they?

Tech question here. I went to the local billing center in Milford, and to add a DVR. They ended up giving me the older DCT3412 I instead of the newer DCH style boxes. I know they have them since their demo TV was using a DCH box. Are there any functional differences between the two? How about hard drive size?
Not sure if there are any significant functional differences, but they gave you a "12" (120GB hard drive). I suggest you go back and ask specifically for a DCH3416 or DCT3416 (160GB hard drive). I also use the Milford office, and the people there are usually very good.

Mickey

Not sure if there are any significant functional differences, but they gave you a "12" (120GB hard drive). I suggest you go back and ask specifically for a DCH3416 or DCT3416 (160GB hard drive). I also use the Milford office, and the people there are usually very good.

Mickey

Figures, I knew nothing about DVRs when I was there. Why are they still giving out old equipment then? I mean I am gonna pay the same ~$15 monthly, and would rather have 33% more storage especially since I plan on only recording HD.

Figures, I knew nothing about DVRs when I was there. Why are they still giving out old equipment then? I mean I am gonna pay the same ~$15 monthly, and would rather have 33% more storage especially since I plan on only recording HD.
It's possible they simply don't have any XX16's in stock at the moment. But its worth a try to find out. If they dig around the office they might come up with one.

Mickey

In Tewksbury, I have my Comcast cable feed going right in to my 42 inch HD Toshi plasma without a box. Am I going to have to rent a box now? They maybe removing channels already... I have not had the CW in HD (channel 56-1) for 2 weeks now, but the all the other HD channels 2-1, 4-1, 5-1, 7-2, 25-1 are all still there.

In Tewksbury, I have my Comcast cable feed going right in to my 42 inch HD Toshi plasma without a box. Am I going to have to rent a box now? They maybe removing channels already... I have not had the CW in HD (channel 56-1) for 2 weeks now, but the all the other HD channels 2-1, 4-1, 5-1, 7-2, 25-1 are all still there.

probably not, your plasma TV has a tuner in it capable for digital TV based on your ability to get the -1 channels.

Figures, I knew nothing about DVRs when I was there. Why are they still giving out old equipment then? I mean I am gonna pay the same ~$15 monthly, and would rather have 33% more storage especially since I plan on only recording HD.

Well not that it effects you, but the DCT series are preferred by some for the (new) Tivo service offered by Comcast. Other than that, the DCTxx12 series boxes are more than adequate for using with non-HD TV's where they can record something like ~60 hours. The xx16 series boxes are preferred for HD where they max out at about ~20 hours of HD goodness (~80 hours SD).

Well not that it effects you, but the DCT series are preferred by some for the (new) Tivo service offered by Comcast. Other than that, the DCTxx12 series boxes are more than adequate for using with non-HD TV's where they can record something like ~60 hours. The xx16 series boxes are preferred for HD where they max out at about ~20 hours of HD goodness (~80 hours SD).

She asked me if I was connecting it to an HDTV and I said yes. She even gave me an HDMI cable when she asked HDMI or component. But it puzzles me why I got the smaller drive. In a month or so I guess I will exchange it, I don't feel like looking like an ass.

Well not that it effects you, but the DCT series are preferred by some for the (new) Tivo service offered by Comcast. Other than that, the DCTxx12 series boxes are more than adequate for using with non-HD TV's where they can record something like ~60 hours. The xx16 series boxes are preferred for HD where they max out at about ~20 hours of HD goodness (~80 hours SD).

I have and prefer the DCH which is why I do not have Tivo at this time (I sort of gotten used to the traditional software)

Comcast expands its favorite trio to Montgomery County, Maryland
Check it -- Comcast subscribers in Montgomery County, Maryland are apparently the next bunch to receive the carrier's favorite trifecta: Science HD, Disney HD and ABC Family HD. Source (http://www.engadgethd.com/2008/05/16/comcast-expands-its-favorite-trio-to-montgomery-county-maryland/)

Seems like your source was right about Maryland but not us!

Hi folks,

Total noob here so please bear with me.

Yesterday, I bought a Vizio VS42L 42" HDTV. Knowing that I was going to need an HD source, I stopped by my local Comcast office in Westford to get a box and upgrade my service. They give me a box (which looked used and with no HDMI outlet) a new remote and a receipt. I go home, add a splitter to the RF cable, hook up the box to the TV (via component cables).....and nothing. Well, I shouldn't say nothing. I get all the menu and guide information. Heck...the box even displays the correct time. But I get that infamous message "This Channel Should Be Available Soon".

First time I call Comcast I was told this was normal and usually will resolve itself within half an hour. Well I had to go run some errands. I come back home three hours later, and still no change. Second time I call Comcast, go through the list of possible fixes they have on their list and nothing. Make an appointment to have a tech come out.

I haven't disconnected anything yet, so here's how my cable is currently set-up.

From the outside tap, I have the cable running to a splitter which splits the signal to the downstairs and upstairs. To the downstairs, it runs from the splitter to another splitter, which then splits the signal again to the TV and then to the modem for the computer and phone. To the upstairs, it runs from the splitter to the HD box, then the TV via component cables.

The funny thing is, the downstairs set-up is running perfectly. On the downstairs TV (which is standard def BTW), there's no signal loss or degradation and the channels come in clear.

I tried connecting the HD Box directly to the antenna, but still nothing.

So I checked the diagnostics for each box. On the downstairs SD box, SNR was 30 dB. Upstairs, it would flutter between 17.6 to 18.2 dB.

Any ideas on what's going on and how I could possible fix it?

Joe A.

did you try the lower channels ? perhaps some of your splitters aren't 1ghz...if they arent they could be blocking the hd channels which are very high freq.

-Ken

Hi folks,

Total noob here so please bear with me.

Yesterday, I bought a Vizio VS42L 42" HDTV. Knowing that I was going to need an HD source, I stopped by my local Comcast office in Westford to get a box and upgrade my service. They give me a box (which looked used and with no HDMI outlet) a new remote and a receipt. I go home, add a splitter to the RF cable, hook up the box to the TV (via component cables).....and nothing. Well, I shouldn't say nothing. I get all the menu and guide information. Heck...the box even displays the correct time. But I get that infamous message "This Channel Should Be Available Soon".

First time I call Comcast I was told this was normal and usually will resolve itself within half an hour. Well I had to go run some errands. I come back home three hours later, and still no change. Second time I call Comcast, go through the list of possible fixes they have on their list and nothing. Make an appointment to have a tech come out.

I haven't disconnected anything yet, so here's how my cable is currently set-up.

From the outside tap, I have the cable running to a splitter which splits the signal to the downstairs and upstairs. To the downstairs, it runs from the splitter to another splitter, which then splits the signal again to the TV and then to the modem for the computer and phone. To the upstairs, it runs from the splitter to the HD box, then the TV via component cables.

The funny thing is, the downstairs set-up is running perfectly. On the downstairs TV (which is standard def BTW), there's no signal loss or degradation and the channels come in clear.

I tried connecting the HD Box directly to the antenna, but still nothing.

So I checked the diagnostics for each box. On the downstairs SD box, SNR was 30 dB. Upstairs, it would flutter between 17.6 to 18.2 dB.

Any ideas on what's going on and how I could possible fix it?

Joe A.
This is probably an example of why, with a first-time HD installation, it is often a good idea to have Comcast come to the house for the installation. For example, my signal was a little weak and needed a booster, which the tech quickly determined and installed for me.

The first thing I would suggest is taking the TV to the access point when the Cable enters you house and doing a direct connect before any splitters.

Also, on one of my sets I foolishly connected the incoming cable to the Cable Out/TV instead of the Cable In, and when you do that you get the same message you are getting. So its always a good idea to double-check all connections. And that should include checking the cable fittings where signal loss can also occur.

If there is still a problem, it is probably time to make an appointment for a tech to come out.

Mickey

My "reliable source" tells me Comcast will announce on Thursday that they're moving a number of Expanded Basic channels from analog to digital throughout the region on July 15th.

I guess your reliable source is no longer reliable :confused: