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.

deleted

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

Didn't know you were so anxoius to watch Hannah Montanna in 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!

MD, not MA. Hopefully soon to MA/NH because I would like to see what the Science Channel offers.

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

I'll back that up because I heard that some lesser channels will be moved to digital to make way for more HD and possibly Docsis 3.0.

http://www.hdtvmagazine.com/news/2008/05/mgm_and_comcast_bring_consumers_more_high-def_movies_through_mgm_hd.php

Anyone know when and on what tier it will be added (ie is this a pay channel like HBO?)

Didn't know you were so anxoius to watch Hannah Montanna in HD

Did you not see those pictures of her? :p

Comcast adds three HD channels in Jersey Shore
Yep, Comcast has added in three new HD nets along the New Jersey shore, and we're giving you exactly one guess as to which three we're talking about. ABC Family HD (195), Disney HD (239) and Science HD (194) were just added in Ocean and Monmouth counties (you did get that correct, right?), and we have a sneaking suspicion they'll be reaching other systems very, very shortly.
Source (http://www.engadgethd.com/2008/05/16/comcast-adds-three-hd-channels-in-jersey-shore/)

Dang whats the hold up for us?!

Almost surely, bandwidth capacity.

I guess your reliable source is no longer reliable :confused:
It's coming. Perhaps the announcement wasn't today, but it's coming.

CN8, MSNBC, and TruTV and a couple of others that slip my mind are headed to the 100's.

Nary a fortnight after hearing that Verizon has dialed its FiOS TV sights in on Manassas, Virginia, along comes word that Comcast is giving its subscribers in the area four more reasons to stay put. Predictably, three of the four consist of ABC Family HD, Disney HD and Science HD, while the outcast is AMC HD.
http://www.engadgethd.com/2008/05/16/comcast-brings-four-new-hd-channels-to-manassas-va/

So it seems NJ, MD, and VA all got new channels Friday. I hope we also get AMC when we get those channels.

CHR31, not suprised about Tru TV and MSNBC, but a little suprised about CN8. It is on Ch.3 on most systems in Mass. If it did go digital only , would not be suprised to see NECN go to Ch.3 and free up either Ch6 or Ch8 in Eastern Mass.Just those 3 channels going digital only means 6to 9 new HD channels.

IMHO CN8 should be on channel 8!

IMHO CN8 should be on channel 8!

Stop making sense.... ;)

From my bill: (Easton)

Effective 7/15/08

CN8 moving from channel 3 to 188
MSNBC moving from channel 27 to 251
EWTN moving from channel 56 to 238
BCTV moving from channel 56 to 268
INSP moving from channel 56 to 234
TRU TV moving from channel 69 to 186
NJT moving from channel 56 to N/A

Package changes

TNT HD,ESPN HD, MOJO, UHD & HD Theater will be moving to Digital Starter
National Geographic Channel HD moving to Digital Classic

For more info goto
http://comcastdigitalworld.com/

(Same info as above is there)

http://comcastdigitalworld.com/ Doesn't list any new HD channels :(

Do we have to wait until July 15th for those new channels? What about channel 66 (open since late 2004)

4 ANALOG Channels opening up this summer 3,27,56, 69 . MSNBC is on different analog channels on various systems. Other 3 pretty much the same on most Comcast legacy systems. one thing on web site disappinting 1 analog equals 10 digital SD channels or "3 HD Channels"

This is what I get from that link for Watertown (02472):

CN8 moving from channel 3 to 188 (Basic)
Hallmark moving from channel 8 to 208 (Digital Starter)
TRU TV moving from channel 40 to 186 (DS)
MSNBC moving from channel 53 to 251 (DS)
EWTN moving from channel 56 to 238 (DS)
BCTV moving from channel 56 to 268 (DS)
INSP moving from channel 56 to 234 (DS)
NJT moving from channel 56 to N/A
PIN moving from channel 10 (local origination channel) to N/A

That last one is one of our two local origination channels.

Looks like six channels, yielding 12-18 HD slots. I like the fact that they make it explicit on the website that more HD is the purpose for the changes.

Yeah, I entered 01803 and saw the correct matching "from" channels for my area. They're freeing up five channels, here.

VERY encouraging!

Looks like six channels, yielding 12-18 HD slots. I like the fact that they make it explicit on the website that more HD is the purpose for the changes.
They also mention faster internet speeds, which to me indicates that they're getting ready to deploy DOCSIS 3.0 in New England.

This is another hint:

http://www.multichannel.com/article/CA6561868.html

Chart for Hopkinton.. Also has 5 channels moving.

http://comcastdigitalworld.com/images/charts/Metro-18_image001.gif

Chart for Hopkinton.. Also has 5 channels moving.

http://comcastdigitalworld.com/images/charts/Metro-18_image001.gif

That seems to be the chart in most areas. MSNBC and Hallmark's old analog channels may differ in some areas.

BTW 5 down - 35 to go! :)

In many towns it is only 4channels as EWTN and Boston Catholic TV time shared analog channels 56. basically it is CN8, MSNBC, Tru TV and EWTN/BCTV. Some town still had Hallmark on analog which makes 5. BCTV nows has it own channel on Comcast. One SD channel i would not mind seeing on digital tier is NASA TV.

HDTV should /hope to see on July 15:
Disney HD
ABC Family HD
Science HD
TLC -HD
Weather Channel HD
NHL-HD
MGM HD
Hallmark -HD
ESPN News HD
Sure there are others on Direct TV list that others may want to add to this one.....

Here is what is coming up for Manchester, NH.

http://comcastdigitalworld.com/images/charts/NNER-40_image001.gif

So it looks like 9 analogs are disappearing in Manchester, which theoretically frees up bandwidth for at least 18 HD channels.

ANyone been able to get a Boston zip code to work for the channel changes?

ANyone been able to get a Boston zip code to work for the channel changes?

Boston is not part of this because only Basic cable is in analog.

Here is what is coming up for Manchester, NH.

http://comcastdigitalworld.com/images/charts/NNER-40_image001.gif

So it looks like 9 analogs are disappearing in Manchester, which theoretically frees up bandwidth for at least 18 HD channels.

Wrong! I count 5! EWTN/BCTV and others are on a shared channels and they are now full time each on its own separate channel.

Boston is not part of this because only Basic cable is in analog.

OK so what new HD channels will we be getting? Personally I would have added bravo,History,cartoon Net,comedy Central,and Sci Fi to this list if not all the extended basic channels.

Wrong! I count 5! EWTN/BCTV and others are on a shared channels and they are now full time each on its own separate channel.

Oops, how the heck did I miss that?

So yeah, we could end up with at least 10 HD channels.

Bandwidth could be used for GREATER Internet access :D

I like the idea of more HD linear channels.

I'm manually programming my tuner for Boston. Anyone know the frequencies in kHz for:

2.1 WGBH
5.1 ABC
7.1 NBC

My TV just says "2.1 WGBH (84)" and
"5.1 (86)" and
"7.1 (86)"
but that's not helpful for programming my tuner.

I'm manually programming my tuner for Boston. Anyone know the frequencies in kHz for:

2.1 WGBH
5.1 ABC
7.1 NBC

My TV just says "2.1 WGBH (84)" and
"5.1 (86)" and
"7.1 (86)"
but that's not helpful for programming my tuner.

My *Clear QAM* tuner just to be specific.

Just a thought: Could Comcast use the extra bandwidth to go back to the "old" Comcast HD (less compression)? IMO, this would be better than getting a new Hannah Montanna HD channel.

I'm manually programming my tuner for Boston. Anyone know the frequencies in kHz for:

2.1 WGBH
5.1 ABC
7.1 NBC

My TV just says "2.1 WGBH (84)" and
"5.1 (86)" and
"7.1 (86)"
but that's not helpful for programming my tuner.

You would probably have more luck with an answer to this in the Boston - OTA forum.

-Ken

You would probably have more luck with an answer to this in the Boston - OTA forum.

-Ken

But I'm tuning Clear QAM, not OTA.

I'm manually programming my tuner for Boston. Anyone know the frequencies in kHz for:

2.1 WGBH
5.1 ABC
7.1 NBC

My TV just says "2.1 WGBH (84)" and
"5.1 (86)" and
"7.1 (86)"
but that's not helpful for programming my tuner.

I've seen them listed at different freqs depending on location...Most of us have to find them doing an autoscan and then it's hit and miss as to whether they remap to the channel numbers.

ANyone been able to get a Boston zip code to work for the channel changes?

Nope, I'm having the same problem.

Nope, I'm having the same problem.

Your answer is here.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=13893864#post13893864

I think I may know a reason why CN8 may be going digital.

Ion and WZMY may be going HD,and as must carry channels, Comcast is required to carry their HD signals IN HD!

chitchat , that is 1 analog channels . still3 more to fill. Many Comcast system are adding Disney ABC Family and Science Ch. HD, so need room for them

I think I may know a reason why CN8 may be going digital.

Ion and WZMY may be going HD,and as must carry channels, Comcast is required to carry their HD signals IN HD!

HD signals are must-carry as well? I don't think that's correct as we have had those retrans issues in other parts of the country where HD feed were pulled from cable. Also when I lived in CT, we had a local OTA affiliate which was not carried in HD over cable.

I know that.
The analog feeds of the other channels are within the 24-69 filter area. CN8 is not.

The big question is When ION DOES GO HD, where will Cinemax move to to make room (Assuming it is on channel 868)

The big question is When ION DOES GO HD, where will Cinemax move to to make room (Assuming it is on channel 868)I just want them to keep all the premium movie channels together. It's a real pain having History HD in the middle of them all...

Just a thought: Could Comcast use the extra bandwidth to go back to the "old" Comcast HD (less compression)? IMO, this would be better than getting a new Hannah Montanna HD channel.

Yes! Probably their plan and I agree with the latter.

I know that.
The analog feeds of the other channels are within the 24-69 filter area. CN8 is not.

The big question is When ION DOES GO HD, where will Cinemax move to to make room (Assuming it is on channel 868)

Does anyone even watch CN8? I know they use it for conflicts on the sports channels for the rare times there is some but what else is it for. If it went away completely it would be no loss.

Are there even plans for ION to go HD? If not, why worry about it then and they already have a digital channel so they are probably staying where they are.

Does anyone know if Comcast has just 750 Mhz of band width in Eastern Mass. ,or do some headends have more?

I got my bill yesterday and they said they're adding National Geo-HD to the Digital Classic package. They must have gotten a lot of complaints from people like me who were paying for the Digital Classic package and had the SD channel but didn't have the HD version.

HD signals are must-carry as well? I don't think that's correct as we have had those retrans issues in other parts of the country where HD feed were pulled from cable. Also when I lived in CT, we had a local OTA affiliate which was not carried in HD over cable.

If the SD feed is a must carry,the HD feed can be (and will probably be) a must carry as well. There will be no SD feed after 2/18 qanyway :)

I got my bill yesterday and they said they're adding National Geo-HD to the Digital Classic package. They must have gotten a lot of complaints from people like me who were paying for the Digital Classic package and had the SD channel but didn't have the HD version.

It sounds like the channel line up for HD is finally being changed over from what it was back when Comcast only had 5 HD channels. Less confusion for newer HD customers wondering why they cannot get ESPN HD when they have regular HD (my parents count as one of these).

I'm pissed at my Motorola DCH3416.

I realized that it wasn't putting out as good a picture over HDMI as my computer (MythTV) did over HDMI on the same programming. In particular, the black level looked too high, and things looked washed out---basically like the brightness was turned up on the output. And YES, I checked to make sure my TV settings were the same on both HDMI inputs. And to double-check, I plugged the DVR into HDMI1 and the computer into HDMI2 /and/ vice-versa, problem persisted.

To get my TV's "true black" on the computer's HDMI out, the TV brightness setting of ~52 or lower worked. With the DCH3416 HDMI out, the TV brightness needed to be down around 30 or 40.

This confused me, so I hooked up the Comcast box's Component cables, and the black level and colors were correct! For some reason, the component output displays correctly, but the HDMI output acts like the brightness has been turned up.

Could someone else check to see if their box has this strange behavior? Maybe I just need to swap out my box...?

I'm pissed at my Motorola DCH3416.

I realized that it wasn't putting out as good a picture over HDMI as my computer (MythTV) did over HDMI on the same programming. In particular, the black level looked too high, and things looked washed out---basically like the brightness was turned up on the output. And YES, I checked to make sure my TV settings were the same on both HDMI inputs. And to double-check, I plugged the DVR into HDMI1 and the computer into HDMI2 /and/ vice-versa, problem persisted.

To get my TV's "true black" on the computer's HDMI out, the TV brightness setting of ~52 or lower worked. With the DCH3416 HDMI out, the TV brightness needed to be down around 30 or 40.

This confused me, so I hooked up the Comcast box's Component cables, and the black level and colors were correct! For some reason, the component output displays correctly, but the HDMI output acts like the brightness has been turned up.

Could someone else check to see if their box has this strange behavior? Maybe I just need to swap out my box...?

I have found on my 3416 that I get a better picture using the component outs than the HDMI output for some of the reasons you mention above but also because it seemed to be soft and lack detail when compared to the components. I got this same result on 2 different displays so I just use the components outputs now. Sometimes HDMI isn't always what it is cracked up to be and this seems to be one of them.

I tried both HDMI, and component on my DCH connected to Pio Kuro plasma. Both connections give an excellent picture. HDMI gives a slightly sharper, cleaner picture with component being a little bit softer. Color accuracy is excellent on both. I calibrated both inputs, and the settings are almost identical. That's what I would expect anyway.

any word of what new HD channels we will get on 7/15/2008 from Comcast? Have an idea of some of the logical ones but is there a defintive word.

any word of what new HD channels we will get on 7/15/2008 from Comcast? Have an idea of some of the logical ones but is there a defintive word.


More than likely you will not see new channels that day. They usually switch off the analog channel a few days to a few weeks later. Aug. 1 sounds more realistic.

-Ken

More than likely you will not see new channels that day. They usually switch off the analog channel a few days to a few weeks later. Aug. 1 sounds more realistic.

-Ken

Not necessarily.

When Cspan 2 went digital only, Discovery HD,History HD and Sci Fi HD popped up like within minutes.

Comcast has been adding Disney, ABC Family and Science Channel in many areas lately, so I'd expect them to be on the list.

I've also seen reports of additions of AMC and TLC.

From the number of slots supposedly opening up 7/15, some of those slots may be reserved for future adds unless Comcast signs some new deals in the meantime.

It could also be for stuff other then JUST HD channels.

The Boston market still does not have Comcast Central.

It could also be for stuff other then JUST HD channels.

The Boston market still does not have Comcast Central.

...or DOCSIS 3.0

Given DirecTV's successful advertising campaign, I think that Comcast is going to provide a bit more HD before they start in on other pursuits... I have the sneaking suspicion that something like DOCSIS 3.0 will be deployed along with SDV.

According to this article in the Globe, multi-room dvr functionality rolls out today in Mass:

http://www.boston.com/business/technology/articles/2008/05/26/connected_homes_still_not_quite_a_reality/


-Ken

EDIT- Nevermind, this is just On Demand Crap....big deal so you can continue your on demand on a different tv....big whoop.

I noticed this on my TV's this past week. It confused me at first, but then I figured out what was going on. I'm in the Attleboro area.

any word on what new we may see on or around 7/15/2008 for HD?

Nope, no word I've seen anywhere.

any word on what new we may see on or around 7/15/2008 for HD?

Does anyone really care ? None of the channels that have been mentioned sound at all interesting.

-Ken

any word of what new HD channels we will get on 7/15/2008 from Comcast? Have an idea of some of the logical ones but is there a defintive word.

Why are they waiting so long? Its so painful to hear that you may be getting new HD channels in 2.5 months. Why don't they move it up a month closer. I checked and half of the channels they are dropping are already digital on the listed channels.

Does anyone really care ? None of the channels that have been mentioned sound at all interesting.On the contrary: ABC Family HD means we'll see Kyle XY in HD, again. Science Channel HD means perhaps we'll see How It's Made and Build it Bigger in HD.

What would be really nice would be if FX HD is in the mix.

Why are they waiting so long? Its so painful to hear that you may be getting new HD channels in 2.5 months.Mid-July is only 1.5 months away.

Some municipalities require 30 days notice of any such changes.

Personally, I want FNCHD. Can't wait to see its "fair and balanced" newsbabes in HD.

On the contrary: ABC Family HD means we'll see Kyle XY in HD, again.

oh boy, is that dreadful show still on ?

-Ken

Please provide me a list of shows your family likes, so I can ridicule your family's preferences. http://www.wdwinfo.com/images/smilies/rotfl2.gif

That wonderful show, Kyle XY, returns early in 2009.

Personally, I want FNCHD. Can't wait to see its "fair and balanced" newsbabes in HD.

By far the hottest looking anchor women on the planet, don't think theres a bad one among the bunch! Oh wait, I forgot about 10:00 pm. well almost all of them. :D

Please provide me a list of shows your family likes, so I can ridicule your family's preferences. http://www.wdwinfo.com/images/smilies/rotfl2.gif

That wonderful show, Kyle XY, returns early in 2009.


“Kyle XY” returns with ten new episodes in January 2009 for its third season. In the third season of "Kyle XY," lives are saved, secrets are exposed and hearts are broken as Kyle discovers that being a hero doesn't come without a price.

OK then...sounds like terrific family fare

...as Kyle discovers that being a hero doesn't come without a price...
Kyle and I have a lot in common.

Mickey

Kyle and I have a lot in common.No belly button?

Science Channel HD means perhaps we'll see How It's Made and Build it Bigger in HD.

Is that any different than the "How It's Made" in HD that's on NGEO already?

:rolleyes:In the third season of Kyle Xy, Kyle will show how easy it is to cast reckless aspersions at folks making decisions he doesn't like. He will also show how those decisions are based on experience, expertise, professionalism, and fiduciary responsibilities. Kyle will also discuss his belly button situation!:)

Mid-July is only 1.5 months away.

Some municipalities require 30 days notice of any such changes.

We've known about this for a while though. Thats where I got the 2.5 month stat.

Does anyone really care ? None of the channels that have been mentioned sound at all interesting.

-Ken

Agreed.

Where are FX and Comedy Central...those need to be prioritized.

Is that any different than the "How It's Made" in HD that's on NGEO already?More is better. :)

More is better. :)

I don't disagree, I like that show. Something about conveyor belts and robotics in HD.... :D

Which is the one with the guy recently out of architecture school... I like that one best.

Where are FX and Comedy Central...those need to be prioritized.

As far as I know, Comedy Central has not launched an HD channel, or even announced plans to do so. I know for sure that neither DirecTV or Dish (the leaders in channel count) carry it.

Comcast has signed a deal with MGM HD, so that could be a candidate for July

Totally agree on FX. It would be great to see the next seasons of Rescue Me and Damages in HD.

It sure seems to me that DirecTV has an exclusive deal with FX for its HD channel -- no cable company provides it, nor does Dish Network, FiOS, nor U-verse.

It sure seems to me that DirecTV has an exclusive deal with FX for its HD channel -- no cable company provides it, nor does Dish Network, FiOS, RCN, nor U-verse.

FXHD is available on RCN. You should check your facts before you speak.

Billy

http://www.rcn.com/cabletv/lineups/details.php?lineup_id=MA-DIGITAL

Sorry: I was relying on my memory of the HDTV Channel Lineup FAQ (http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=1016467) here on avsforum.com. It shows (even to this moment) DirecTV as the only source for FX HD. What I didn't realize is that RCN isn't listed at all. My bad. Again, I'm sorry. I've fixed my earlier message.

Missing TBS on Qam tuner in Fall River. I have 3 televisions; One on a cable box, one with an analog tuner, and the newest has a Qam tuner. I wanted to change rooms while watching a show to the room with the Qam tuner, but it didnt recognize 31. I go from 30.0 to 31.2. I've looked high and low. Anyone might know where I can find it?

"Missing"? Here in Burlington, it was never there. Here, the only non-local broadcast channels we have on QAM in-the-clear are Speed, Style, RTP (?), and shopping channels.

TWC goes HD tomorrow, too bad we don't have it yet. Maybe Comcast will surprise us!

Sat night on TBS or was it TNT, anyway Spiderman in 5.1 was broadcast in Quincy Right Rear speaker only. Interesting

"Missing"? Here in Burlington, it was never there. Here, the only non-local broadcast channels we have on QAM in-the-clear are Speed, Style, RTP (?), and shopping channels.

Lawrence restricts QAM in the clear to channels in limited basic. including HD LOCALS!

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

OK WHERE ARE THEY?

Are those 3 part of new adds after 7/15/2008?

No one's saying, quite yet, but it sure seems likely.

OK WHERE ARE THEY?

I'm scratching my head on this one as well. From what I have heard, it has been delayed and it might be until 7/15/08 so Comcast can make a bigger splash after the analog migration happens.

This isn't the first time I've been off, but I have a good average reporting changes.

I'm scratching my head on this one as well. From what I have heard, it has been delayed and it might be until 7/15/08 so Comcast can make a bigger splash after the analog migration happens.

This isn't the first time I've been off, but I have a good average reporting changes.

Works for me. I wouldn't mind also getting the Weather channel HD. :)

more hard proof comcast/tivo sucks

http://crave.cnet.com/8301-1_105-9956012-1.html?tag=cnetfd.mt

more hard proof comcast/tivo sucks

http://crave.cnet.com/8301-1_105-9956012-1.html?tag=cnetfd.mt

Obviously, you decided to read only the parts that are negative. I guess it makes you feel better. :)

"After one day, I'm not sure I'll keep TiVo because of how slow it runs."

Sounds like more good than bad. I can't believe they'd roll out this crap and actually charge for it.

Sounds like more good than bad. I can't believe they'd roll out this crap and actually charge for it.Luckily, you can make your own decision and let others do the same.

".....
I can't believe they'd roll out this crap and actually charge for it.

Remember that you don't need Tivo/Comcast to watch TV. You are charged only when you want it. Sounds fair to me.

I was on the original list for Tivo but chose to pass up on it mainly because I was content with the Comcast software (though i did hate those freezes)

BTW I did get my package renewed. It seems to be indefinatly. :D

Works for me. I wouldn't mind also getting the Weather channel HD. :)

Yes, I second that motion! Lets get a HD channel thats actually has HD programming on it most of the time unlike some of the more recent additions.

I'd prefer one that doesn't show the same thing every half hour all day. :rotfl:

Seriously, at this point, the only one that would matter to us is FX HD. Comcast has already given us all the other HD channels available that we'd want.

I'd prefer one that doesn't show the same thing every half hour all day. :rotfl:

Seriously, at this point, the only one that would matter to us is FX HD. Comcast has already given us all the other HD channels available that we'd want.

TO YOU!

I would like some others as well,and I seldom if ever even WATCH Fx SD.

TO YOU! Yup, that's what I said.

I was on the original list for Tivo but chose to pass up on it mainly because I was content with the Comcast software (though i did hate those freezes)

Me too, but I passed once I found out they had to charge for a truck roll just to get it set up. I've had a stand alone Tivo for many years and appreciate the better software, but also have discovered my viewing habits really don't take advantage of a lot of the nice features.

Me too, but I passed once I found out they had to charge for a truck roll just to get it set up. I've had a stand alone Tivo for many years and appreciate the better software, but also have discovered my viewing habits really don't take advantage of a lot of the nice features.I might consider it if they offered larger hard drives.

As it is, I do 90% of my recording on my TiVo Series 3 with its 750GB hard drive. It's just not worth it to me to spend extra money for my Comcast DVR unless I'd use it more and that's more a function of disk space than UI.

Works for me. I wouldn't mind also getting the Weather channel HD. :)

I know it's probably mainly the studio coverage that's HD, but I wanna see some storms in HD. Those crazy reporters out in the hurricanes in HD! :D

I know it's probably mainly the studio coverage that's HD, but I wanna see some storms in HD. Those crazy reporters out in the hurricanes in HD! :D

Don't forget tornados, floods and blizzards!

Weather HD!!!! TUNE TO 847 - UNAUTHORIZED right now

Weather HD!!!! TUNE TO 847 - UNAUTHORIZED right now

Not seeing it in Watertown - what's your location?

Weather HD!!!! TUNE TO 847 - UNAUTHORIZED right now

Nothing in Hopkinton.

Weather HD!!!! TUNE TO 847 - UNAUTHORIZED right now

Nothing in Salem either.

No channel 847 in Manchester, NH yet.

Lawrence is a no show yet for 847.

847 on in Boston (well, guide is but not up yet)

847 on in Boston (well, guide is but not up yet)

Boston and Brookline have had 847 for some time.

What does Boston and Brookline have in HD in addition to Weather and NHL -HD that we dont have right now on 6/4/08?

If I were Comcast,I would move E! to digital only ,keeoping it mapped to channel 34 for those who have digital starter,and then have those H channels in Fios communities :)

"After one day, I'm not sure I'll keep TiVo because of how slow it runs."

Sounds like more good than bad. I can't believe they'd roll out this crap and actually charge for it.

I've actually had the Tivo service for awhile now and I have very little problems with it. Most recently the menu will overlap the TV picture instead of the picture fitting inside the box. The guide also starts off with channel 1 always. So yeah, aside from the slowness, I've been pretty happy with it.

Shows that one man's trash can be another man's treasure.

channel 847 NOW ON in boston!

http://img515.imageshack.us/img515/4405/1000236db0.jpg

channel 847 NOW ON in boston!

http://img515.imageshack.us/img515/4405/1000236db0.jpg

Nothing here yet in SE MA. :(

channel 847 NOW ON in boston!

http://img515.imageshack.us/img515/4405/1000236db0.jpg

OLD NEWS! They have had it for a few months now!

maybe the June bills will include a flyer telling us what new HD we will get in July.

My understanding is that here in MA they only need provide advance notice for channel deletions/moves.

I have my June bill right here in front of me now.

All it does is confirm the channel moves from analog to digital (CN8, truTV, MSNBC, EWTN, BCTV, Inspiration, Hallmark), and the one channel deletion (NJT), and the reclassification of HD channels (TNT, ESPN, MOJO, UHD, HDT to Digital Starter; NGC to Digital Classic).

I would say at the very least Disney,ABC Family,Science ch,and Weather Ch.

We also have to get comcast Central (on line ioin many other areas including Chicago)

OLD NEWS! They have had it for a few months now!

not on my tv

I would say at the very least Disney,ABC Family,Science ch,and Weather Ch.

We also have to get comcast Central (on line ioin many other areas including Chicago)

Quick question..but what is Comcast Central and what would it do differently than what we currently have?

Thanks

Quick question..but what is Comcast Central and what would it do differently than what we currently have?

Thanks

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?t=840978

Thanks

How much bandwidth does it take up?

The Comcast Central is the new tv guide that Comcast has out.

It's good to see The Starter package get 5 "new" HD channels and lose 1 NGC.

I just turned on to 241 (bbc america) and I get noggin... wtf? am I alone on this?
and 845 (that crap weather channel) says one moment please

Robin Hood - "Ducking and Diving" currently playing. Looks good to me.

hmm... can my receiver be causing it then? how do I do a reset of it, short of unplugging it?

I was able to renew to $129 for another year !! woo hoo ! I am a non fios town, didnt mention cable competition. I only mentioned that I was going to dump the digital phone for vonage.

The first time I called they would do nothing for me, second time it was a piece of cake. I was told my plan had to expire in order for them to "see" it and give it to me again.

-Ken

hmm... can my receiver be causing it then? how do I do a reset of it, short of unplugging it?


just got off of the comcast chat. They reset my receiver and all is well again.

I was able to renew to $129 for another year !! woo hoo ! I am a non fios town, didnt mention cable competition. I only mentioned that I was going to dump the digital phone for vonage.

The first time I called they would do nothing for me, second time it was a piece of cake. I was told my plan had to expire in order for them to "see" it and give it to me again.

-Ken

Although we do have Fios in the city I can NOT get Fios OR Satillite in my building. Here its Comcast or the house antenna.

I got my $159 renewal as well. I did say I would had cut service back to just internet and Digital Pref with HBO with Sne during football season.

Although we do have Fios in the city I can NOT get Fios OR Satillite in my building. Here its Comcast or the house antenna.

I got my $159 renewal as well. I did say I would had cut service back to just internet and Digital Pref with HBO with Sne during football season.

I think comcast is really nervous about losing subscribers due to the cost of the service,the bad economy and competition .

The $159 is a really good deal since it includes the dvr, so it's only $17.50 more than what Im paying now but I'm just not in a position to spend any more money.

-Ken

I think comcast is really nervous about losing subscribers due to the cost of the service,the bad economy and competition .

The $159 is a really good deal since it includes the dvr, so it's only $17.50 more than what Im paying now but I'm just not in a position to spend any more money.

-Ken

Tell me about it

Digital starter (Basic,Extended Basic,and a box) - $58.22
DVR $12.95
Digital preferred with HBO $28.45
NFL Network and the rest of Sports and Entertainment $7.95
Comcast high speed internet blast $52.95

I get Starz Showtime (but only 5 out of 8 channels :() Cinemax (but only 4 out of 8 channels :() and TMC (NO HD :()PLUS telephone service for FREE (and they cut 51 cents off even)

I have had as low as limited basic (no box) and internet

Had Fios been available in my building and they could offer a similar deal (or just TV and internet for slightly less) I may had switched mainly for the HDNet channels)

Wondering if anybody has info on the potential of new Comcast cable boxes in the Boston metro area in the next six months or so. At one point there were rumors that Comcast was getting ready to trial some new Panasonic boxes? Baring that, what about progress on firmware on the moto boxes? There are a number of issues I am interested in:

1. HDMI issues. I semi regularily get the "green screen" that seems to be the result of an HDCP handshaking issue over HDMI. Is it ever going to go away? I currently have my box connected to a Panasonic plasma over HDMI via a passive HDMI switch (the popular monoprice one).

2. Related to #1, I am interested in replacing my receiver at some point with one that has HDMI support (or maybe getting a standalone video processor). Last I heard, the moto boxes wouldn't actually work with these type of devices (due to an issue related to #1). Has this been fixed?

3. Lack of pass through mode on the moto boxes. Are they ever going to make this available so I can choose where scaling gets done and only have it done once (probably in an external processor)?

4. The cursed moto remote lag. It's not as bad as it used to be but I still get it semi regularly. How many years has this been going on? Can it really be that hard to fix?

Any info from those with inside info would be much appreciated.

I haven't read anything that would be a firm foundation to assume that we'll see any move away from Motorola in this area, anytime within the foreseeable future.

4. Yes, it can be that hard to fix.

Yes, the Motorola boxes have issues, but I would overlook all of them if only I could add some more storage!

Are the Motorola issues only on the DVR units or all HDMI/DVI units? I have a DCT6200 box and kind of surprise how responsive it is and not remote lag as of yet. The firmware is 16.85 if I remember correctly.

My mythtv will no longer tune HD channels with Comcast Boston, and my HDTV with built in QAM tuner is no longer tuning channels where they used to be. I had it scan and the channel numbers are all screwed up, I can't find anything now. Anyone else notice this?
Tom

Same here.... (and just in time to mess with the NBA Finals...) I am watching through my CECB and rabbit ears...

Found the signals in the 80's (e.g. ABC HD 86-1)...:)

Ya I found them too, had to rescan everything and reindex them by hand but they are all back. I hate comcast...
Tom

The QAM mappings get changed every so often. That's true of all MSOs. No big surprise; nothing to be concerned about. QAM mappings are not published, for this very reason.

Are the Motorola issues only on the DVR units or all HDMI/DVI units? I have a DCT6200 box and kind of surprise how responsive it is and not remote lag as of yet. The firmware is 16.85 if I remember correctly.
I had a DCT6200, swapped it for a DCH3400 about six months ago as I was unable to use the DVI output on the DCT6200. I have had no problems with the DCH3400 connecting with an HDMI/DVI cable.

I had a DCT6200, swapped it for a DCH3400 about six months ago as I was unable to use the DVI output on the DCT6200. I have had no problems with the DCH3400 connecting with an HDMI/DVI cable.

I have my DCT6200 connected directly to my TV with a DVI-to-HDMI adapter and not problems either.

The QAM mappings get changed every so often. That's true of all MSOs. No big surprise; nothing to be concerned about. QAM mappings are not published, for this very reason.

NO QAM mapping changes here. OK ON demand/PPV previews but nothing else.

Found the signals in the 80's (e.g. ABC HD 86-1)...:)

I get ABC HD on 5-1. (OK WMUR on 75-89 as opposed to 9-1)

Hi All - I have basic comcast cable as well as OTA, these come in on separate RG6 feeds. My TV only has one coax/F connector. I was going to buy a manual A/B switch but had a couple questions:

1. Is there concern over interference with a cable line and an OTA line going into an A/B switch box?
2. Is there a better solution than a manual A/B switch?

Thanks

NO QAM mapping changes here. OK ON demand/PPV previews but nothing else.

Mine definitely changed, even my LCD's QAM tuner was all goofed up from it. I remapped them all but now I have to recreate my recordings! Too bad there's no better way to keep track of the mappings...
Tom

Hi All - I have basic comcast cable as well as OTA, these come in on separate RG6 feeds. My TV only has one coax/F connector. I was going to buy a manual A/B switch but had a couple questions:

1. Is there concern over interference with a cable line and an OTA line going into an A/B switch box?
2. Is there a better solution than a manual A/B switch?

Thanks

now that i do a bit more searching, I realize I'd have to have my TV rescan each time I switched the inputs. How are others doing this?

now that i do a bit more searching, I realize I'd have to have my TV rescan each time I switched the inputs. How are others doing this?

That's one of the things about my Samsung that I like, it has separate inputs for antenna & cable. My Toshiba has one input but fortunately remembers the different lineups when switched between Antenna & Cable. I've been too lazy to get an A/B box, I just change the cable if needed, at which time I have to change the TV to tell it if it's Antenna or Cable and it recalls the mappings for the proper one, but no rescan.

Instead of a switch box you may get a better setup with an OTA STB & component cables to the TV. If you haven't bought the A/B switch yet, then part of the cost of the STB will be in the budget you planned for the A/B switch. Just make sure you get one with HD outputs. I believe the STB that you can get with a coupon do not support HD. Does anyone know if the STB coupons can be applied towards an HD STB tuner? Ok, this should probably be in the OTA forum......

That's one of the things about my Samsung that I like, it has separate inputs for antenna & cable. My Toshiba has one input but fortunately remembers the different lineups when switched between Antenna & Cable. I've been too lazy to get an A/B box, I just change the cable if needed, at which time I have to change the TV to tell it if it's Antenna or Cable and it recalls the mappings for the proper one, but no rescan.

Instead of a switch box you may get a better setup with an OTA STB & component cables to the TV. If you haven't bought the A/B switch yet, then part of the cost of the STB will be in the budget you planned for the A/B switch. Just make sure you get one with HD outputs. I believe the STB that you can get with a coupon do not support HD. Does anyone know if the STB coupons can be applied towards an HD STB tuner? Ok, this should probably be in the OTA forum......

coupon boxes are strictly off air 480i

RCN dropping analog. (http://www.boston.com/business/technology/articles/2008/06/14/rcn_dropping_analog_channels/)

The most-relevant part (to us) is the little note that says Comcast will add 5 HD channels to Boston and Brookline next week. That should give the rest of us a pretty good idea of what to expect in mid-July.

BTW, I'd add to the channel speculation by pointing out that Comcast still does not have all the local broadcast stations in digital yet. I'm thinking specifically of the MyNetworkTV outlet.

WZMY is still 480i. (I believe thier off air analog signal is STILL MONO)
All the local channels with a 720p or 1080i signal Comcast already carries in that format.

Predictions The new HD channels in Boston/Brookline will all be simulcasts) Disney,ABC Family,Science channel,Learning channel and AMC.

These 5 along with NHL and Weather ch will go to everyone else in mid July.

We will probably also get Comcast Central at that time.

Any thoughts on Comcast vs RCN?

I'm moving to Boston in a couple weeks and those are my two options for HDTV and Internet. I'll probably be sticking with Vonage, unless one of these guys can offer me a package that includes phone for $15 or less (like I pay with Vonage).

I'll be using a TiVo HD, so will only be paying for a single M-card cablecard most likely. My concerns, in no particular order, are:

a. HDTV channel lineup
b. SDTV channel lineup
c. internet speed, lag
d. COST
e. HDTV image quality
f. SDTV image quality
e. general customer service and support

I'm willing to pay slightly more for better service on any of the above issues, but cost is definitely a factor. I won't be paying for any expensive premium packages, so the included channel lineup is what I'm looking at.

Since TiVO doesn't currently support SDV, that is also a concern here as well.

Anyone else getting frequent drop-outs/digital breakups lately?

I had this happen annoyingly often during the last Celtics game. Might have been coincidence, but the drop-outs didn't seem to occur during standard def commercials.

Whoever forgot to flip the switch for the final round of the U.S. Open on WHDH should be fired.

Edit: Nevermind, called Comcast and "Due to technical difficulties the U.S. Open is airing in SD...".

Anyone else getting frequent drop-outs/digital breakups lately? Not here. Sorry.

Whoever forgot to flip the switch for the final round of the U.S. Open on WHDH should be fired.

Edit: Nevermind, called Comcast and "Due to technical difficulties the U.S. Open is airing in SD...".

Technical difficulties at the source or with Comcast?

Anyone else getting frequent drop-outs/digital breakups lately?

I had this happen annoyingly often during the last Celtics game. Might have been coincidence, but the drop-outs didn't seem to occur during standard def commercials.

I have also seen it in Celtics games - in Billerica. Will watch for it tonight.

Technical difficulties at the source or with Comcast?

same problem with FIOS must be network problems

Has anyone noticed audio lag issues on ABC HD, when watching the NBA finals, in particular? Any time they cut to the announcers, I notice the audio ahead of the video by about 1/4 sec...

A frequent problem with me on WCVB-DT. both with local and network feeds.

I did the live chat thing w/comcast, here is what they had to say:

It seems to be fine off of the feed
we are on but may be an issue from your head end as it is different
than this one. I have checked with coworkers also and there has only
been one other report of this. I will go open a ticket to the
engineers letting them know you are experiencing this issue.

WZMY is still 480i. (I believe thier off air analog signal is STILL MONO)
All the local channels with a 720p or 1080i signal Comcast already carries in that format.

Predictions The new HD channels in Boston/Brookline will all be simulcasts) Disney,ABC Family,Science channel,Learning channel and AMC.

These 5 along with NHL and Weather ch will go to everyone else in mid July.

We will probably also get Comcast Central at that time.

What a letdown...it's about time we see more sports and movie channels.

Gosh, no! We already have way too many of those. The only letdown in that list is that FX HD is missing.

I'm going to swing by the local office today and swap out my cable box to see if it helps my "drop-out" issue. My current box is a DCT3416. What model should I be looking for? What's the best out there right now?

Thanks

The DCT-3416 is the one you want, IMHO. They're not all perfect (as you have discovered), but if you swap it out, you're as likely as not to get a much more stable one. We had a series of DVRs, from Comcast, over the years, and the DCT-3416 we had last was one of the most stable and reliable. (I'm really regretting, now, having turned it in [in favor of just using our TiVo S3]. If you're lucky, you'll get the DCT-3416 we had! :))

Second choice would be the DCH-3416. It's just about as good; it just has the complication of the CableCARD embedded in the back.

quick question,
I turned on a couple of tv in my house that are not connected directlly to cable boxes. I dont seem to have a few channels, like cbs abc nbc cw and fox is anyone having the same trouble. the tv's that are connected to boxes seem to be working fine.

steve

quick question,
I turned on a couple of tv in my house that are not connected directlly to cable boxes. I dont seem to have a few channels, like cbs abc nbc cw and fox is anyone having the same trouble. the tv's that are connected to boxes seem to be working fine.

steve

2,4,5,7,25,38,and 56's analog signals seem to be gone THe HD signals are OK. :D

There is also a screwup on infomercial channel 283 (as if anyone cares) :)

I'm going to swing by the local office today and swap out my cable box to see if it helps my "drop-out" issue. My current box is a DCT3416. What model should I be looking for? What's the best out there right now?

Thanks

FYI, I had a problem yesterday where I'd get a black screen after trying to use the pause function, watching anything from my recordings list, swapping tuners, etc. Ended up pulling the power cord for a hard restart, that cleared up the problems for me.

2,4,5,7,25,38,and 56's analog signals seem to be gone THe HD signals are OK. :D

There is also a screwup on infomercial channel 283 (as if anyone cares) :)

Area equipment problem and it should be cleared up right now.

Has anyone noticed audio lag issues on ABC HD, when watching the NBA finals, in particular? Any time they cut to the announcers, I notice the audio ahead of the video by about 1/4 sec...

I've had the problem all series long. I tried channel 809 but the channel is not as clear as 805.

Any thoughts on Comcast vs RCN?
Since TiVO doesn't currently support SDV, that is also a concern here as well.

Comcast has new software rolling out that will support SDV with a TiVo box. I believe TiVo is working on a piece of connection to help with that.

If you are switching your service from Vonage to either Comcast or RCN, then you will need a local number. If you do not switch, you should make sure Vonage makes the address changes so if you need to call 911, they are not dispatched to your old address.

Anyone else not getting NGHD, FOODHD, and UHD, they are not coming in here and its been for a few days now

THey're both OK here in Boston - I had that problem earlier, and it turned out to be a weak signal. They are not the most powerful of the HD channels, I am told.

I have a TV with a built-in QAM tuner plugged directly into Comcast (no cable box of any sort), with "Basic" service and have generally been successful at watching the Boston-area HD broadcast channels Comcast puts on the cable. The only trick has been finding them, as Comcast moves them around in QAM-space.

Recently WFXT-DT disappeared and so I ran a channel scan and found it again (at 87-1). However, in between the time that I found it and the time it took me to add it to the TV's "Favorites" (a few minutes), it disappeared. By that I mean whether I tune to it via the favorites "link" or punch in 87-1, the TV says "no signal found". What are the odds that it disappeared just at that moment? Zero, I'd guess. That means something else must be going on, but I can't guess what. Any of you have any ideas? Do I really need to start paying $8.99/month to get Comcast's HD box to avoid this problem?

(FWIW, I get WGBH-DT, WHDH-DT and WCVB-DT just fine. I can tune them as 2-2, 7-1, and 5-1.)

Food Network HD was okay here, yesterday.

Comcast has new software rolling out that will support SDV with a TiVo box. I believe TiVo is working on a piece of connection to help with that.

If you are switching your service from Vonage to either Comcast or RCN, then you will need a local number. If you do not switch, you should make sure Vonage makes the address changes so if you need to call 911, they are not dispatched to your old address.

There is a SDV hardware adapter (and presumably corresponding software update) coming soon from TiVo, but I don't think Comcast is involved directly per se. It still won't do VOD however, but I can live with that.

Thanks for the advice with Vonage. We'll be getting a local Boston # for sure and will definitely change the 911 info. I'm willing to go with a cable company phone service, but only if it's cheaper since Vonage has worked well for me and we really don't use our home phone all that much.

Does Comcast charge a fee to access their HD channels?

Since I'll be using a TiVo HD, I would hope that I only have to pay the cablecard fee. They seem to indicate their upcharge for HD is really to pay for the HD STB, but it's somewhat unclear.

Does Comcast charge a fee to access their HD channels?

Since I'll be using a TiVo HD, I would hope that I only have to pay the cablecard fee. They seem to indicate their upcharge for HD is really to pay for the HD STB, but it's somewhat unclear.

Comcast does not charge extra for HD service. As long as you have Digital service and you pay for the CableCard you will receive the HD channels.

There is a SDV hardware adapter (and presumably corresponding software update) coming soon from TiVo, but I don't think Comcast is involved directly per se.The tuning adapter must come from Comcast. The software update comes from TiVo.

I have a TV with a built-in QAM tuner plugged directly into Comcast (no cable box of any sort), with "Basic" service and have generally been successful at watching the Boston-area HD broadcast channels Comcast puts on the cable. The only trick has been finding them, as Comcast moves them around in QAM-space.

Recently WFXT-DT disappeared and so I ran a channel scan and found it again (at 87-1). However, in between the time that I found it and the time it took me to add it to the TV's "Favorites" (a few minutes), it disappeared. By that I mean whether I tune to it via the favorites "link" or punch in 87-1, the TV says "no signal found". What are the odds that it disappeared just at that moment? Zero, I'd guess. That means something else must be going on, but I can't guess what. Any of you have any ideas? Do I really need to start paying $8.99/month to get Comcast's HD box to avoid this problem?

(FWIW, I get WGBH-DT, WHDH-DT and WCVB-DT just fine. I can tune them as 2-2, 7-1, and 5-1.)

Lawrence has ALWAYS been

2-2 = 802
4-1 = 804
5-1 = 805
7-1 = 807
25-1 = 825
38-1 = 838
56-1 = 856
75-89 = 809

HD locals are considered part of the $10 limited basic tier. Comcastr has even admitted a QAM tuner can get them.

ABC HD looked 17 times better last night!

Comcast does not charge extra for HD service. As long as you have Digital service and you pay for the CableCard you will receive the HD channels.

Having to get digital service over basic to get encrypted HD channels could still be considered an extra charge to some people. With that being said, getting the CC is still the cheapest way to go to attain that level of service without having to lease a STB.

Having to get digital service over basic to get encrypted HD channels could still be considered an extra charge to some people. With that being said, getting the CC is still the cheapest way to go to attain that level of service without having to lease a STB.

The thing is what devices use cable cards? not too many.

The thing is what devices use cable cards? not too many.

Huh! Plasma TV's and DVR's. :confused:

Huh! Plasma TV's and DVR's. :confused:


I agree with chitchat, fewer and fewer devices use cable cards these days.

-Ken

Having to get digital service over basic to get encrypted HD channels could still be considered an extra charge to some people. With that being said, getting the CC is still the cheapest way to go to attain that level of service without having to lease a STB.

This is why I feel that for digital starter,digital channels should be UNencrypted. Use the Chs 24-69 filter to block out those who get just limited basic and since ALL QAM tuners can get the HD channels,only the HD channels need be unencrypted. Let the 4:3 consumer choose between centercut and letterbox,preferably the latter. :)

New channels in Boston? http://www.engadgethd.com/2008/06/19/comcast-delivers-6-new-hd-channels-to-boston/

New channels in Boston? http://www.engadgethd.com/2008/06/19/comcast-delivers-6-new-hd-channels-to-boston/

Yeah, where are they? I don't see them on my TV

I don't have them either.... Is this Boston only? Like Weather HD and and NBA (or NHL?) HD?

Seems like city of Boston only. Nothing here in Salem.

and nothing in Manchester

and nothing in Manchester

Darn, I just saw that Engadget HD article and was real excited. My wife keeps asking when TLC HD will appear.

Yeah, where are they? I don't see them on my TV
The Globe said last week that these would be added in City of Boston and Brookline only. Best guess on when the rest of us will see them - soon after 7/15, when some analogs are scheduled to be made digital-only.

Nothing new in Lawrence.

I say come mid July we will catch up.

We may also see Big Ten Network on SnE (ch 269 is my predicted slot) and maybe the WBPX sub channels.

This is why I feel that for digital starter,digital channels should be UNencrypted. Use the Chs 24-69 filter to block out those who get just limited basic and since ALL QAM tuners can get the HD channels,only the HD channels need be unencrypted. Let the 4:3 consumer choose between centercut and letterbox,preferably the latter. :)

chitchat, we know that what we want and what they do will always be different. As someone who has 3 QAM tuners, I would be very happy with that scenario but I don't think it will ever happen because they make more profit with the way they have it set up now and I highly doubt that will change.

Figure for us in the burbs after July 15. If you add weather HD and NHL HD hopeully will be 7 new ones for come 7/16. should be a flyer in our July bill.
Any predictions when the next analog reclaimation will take place? I am guessing one in Q4 2008 and another on or around 2/29/2009. probably another 3to 5 analog channels to go digital only each time. After 2/19/2009 Comcast will be down to 35-40 analog channels.

Nothing at all in Arlington.

They don't need a notice for channel ADDS

On Wednesday I noticed I now have:

DISNY HD on 824
ABCFM HD on 826
DSCSCI HD on 857
AMC HD on 859
TLC HD on 867

confirmed in Boston! YES!

confirmed in Boston! YES!

old news in Boston and Brookline.

NO news anywhere else :(

And no one should expect to hear anything along these lines elsewhere until at least July 16, if even then.

Called Comcast last night, "no word when expect more will come later. CSR hinted what Boston just got we will get sometime after 7/16.Agree to some degree with chitchat,Comcast should be more aggressive with analog reclamation.

On Wednesday I noticed I now have:

DISNY HD on 824
ABCFM HD on 826
DSCSCI HD on 857
AMC HD on 859
TLC HD on 867

How do each of these rate in terms of actual HD content?

Cox in RI is adding HDs that Comcast isnt right now. I wouldnt mind CNBC_HD with better graphics and 2008 Olympics and my wife would enjoy Lifetime -HD

How do each of these rate in terms of actual HD content?

Just about everything on AMC and DSCSCI is in HD, a good amount of TLC, not much on DISNY & ABCFM.

Cox in RI is adding HDs that Comcast isnt right now. I wouldnt mind CNBC_HD with better graphics and 2008 Olympics and my wife would enjoy Lifetime -HD

CNBC-HD is mostly crap (an SD signal with HD graphics) Olympic coverage will mostly be on WHDH,UHD and USA.

Okay, with my vista media center and ati digital cable tuners I have lost most of my HD channels but I do get those new ones.


Anyone else having this problem? This is terrible :( I fear they have changed to switched video :(!

Okay, with my vista media center and ati digital cable tuners I have lost most of my HD channels but I do get those new ones.


Anyone else having this problem? This is terrible :( I fear they have changed to switched video :(!

What town are you in?

Switched video? This is good as it opens the door for MORE HD!

I'm sure we'll hear about switched video before they deploy it.

in Boston, MA


Channels such as 872 (History Channel) will no longer tune.

I dont get History, Animal Planet, Nat Geo and a few others since ~6/20

All 5 of the new channels however come in just fine.

So...do the comments above mean that Comcast in Boston is now engaging Switched Video? I would think that, as in Bicker's post, they would inform their customers if they were doing that.

Are the current moto boxes even capable of switched video ?

So...do the comments above mean that Comcast in Boston is now engaging Switched Video?

I don't think so since my TivoHD still appears to work for my HD channels; although I have no guide data for the 5 new channels yet.

Mine work as well -
I's think that, if they did go to switched. they'd let us know.
How long before the guide data becomes available on TiVO? It's nice to have some new HD channels.

So...do the comments above mean that Comcast in Boston is now engaging Switched Video?Almost surely not.

Are the current moto boxes even capable of switched video ?As far as I know, yes.

Boston is further along then other areas in New England in regards to the digital transition. I want to say they are either all-digital or close to it. That is why they have more HD channels the other places in New England at the moment.

As far as I know, the Motorola boxes are capable of doing Switched Video. I think the bottleneck is getting all of the cable company equipment in the area ready to use Switched Video with those boxes, not the actual boxes themselves.

[/QUOTE]As far as I know, the Motorola boxes are capable of doing Switched Video. I think the bottleneck is getting all of the cable company equipment in the area ready to use Switched Video with those boxes, not the actual boxes themselves

What does this mean for Cable Cards?

What does this mean for Cable Cards?


Since CableCards are only one way devices it won't be Switch Video capable which means you will loose some channels.

What does this mean for Cable Cards?


Since CableCards are only one way devices it won't be Switch Video capable which means you will loose some channels.


Any noise coming from cable card users since there was a government mandate that brought about cable cards?

I don't think so since my TivoHD still appears to work for my HD channels; although I have no guide data for the 5 new channels yet.

Thanks for the heads up, looks like I'll have to give comcast a call.


Grr!


Thank goodness no switched video though!

So, I spoke to Comcast again regarding my Tivo service. I've been having an issue since I got the service back in March or April where I don't get any Dolby Digital 5.1 audio on compatible channels. Back then, I was told a patch was coming out within a couple weeks to fix it.

Fast forward to almost July, and it's still not fixed. Comcast said they're working on the issue and the hold-up is that they need to make a "universal" download for all areas for it to work. I may not know much about DVR hardware, but if everyone's on Comcast and has the same type of box/boxes, how is that not "universal"? It's not like every customer has a completely different setup?

Regardless, the CSR said they hope to get it out "this season", whatever the heck that means. He couldn't credit me for the audio not working, but did give me a $10 credit. He said I can use them for On-Demand movies, which I get to watch without DD5.1 :-)

Note that TiVo is working to have a device made available which will bridge the SDV gap, for its CableCARD-equipped DVRs. And that the Motorola DVRs already have two-way capability, apart from the CableCARD sub-system, that bridges the SDV gap. Most of the folks who will have a problem with SDV here will be WMC folks and folks with CableCARD-equipped televisions.

Note that TiVo is working to have a device made available which will bridge the SDV gap, for its CableCARD-equipped DVRs. And that the Motorola DVRs already have two-way capability, apart from the CableCARD sub-system, that bridges the SDV gap. Most of the folks who will have a problem with SDV here will be WMC folks and folks with CableCARD-equipped televisions.


It will be interesting to see if CableCARD-equipped televisions get addressed in regards to SDV conversion. In the minority here but I've never liked or had a cable box, I like the simplicity of turning the TV on and get the channels I pay for without extra equipment. I also never had the need for a DVR.

It will be interesting to see if CableCARD-equipped televisions get addressed in regards to SDV conversion. In the minority here but I've never liked or had a cable box, I like the simplicity of turning the TV on and get the channels I pay for without extra equipment. I also never had the need for a DVR.

Have you ever tried a DVR? Just wondering. I use it exclusively to time-shift programs. For example, the Wimbledon tennis coverage starts at 7am and ends around 3pm. I watch those 8 hours of tennis in about 3 hours in the evening fast forwarding when I want to. I also watched the NBA finals final game with 1.5 hour delay (again fast forwarding the breaks). You cannot get this functionality (at least not so conveniently) without a DVR.

Have you ever tried a DVR? Just wondering. I use it exclusively to time-shift programs. For example, the Wimbledon tennis coverage starts at 7am and ends around 3pm. I watch those 8 hours of tennis in about 3 hours in the evening fast forwarding when I want to. I also watched the NBA finals final game with 1.5 hour delay (again fast forwarding the breaks). You cannot get this functionality (at least not so conveniently) without a DVR.


I totally appreciate the functionality of a DVR but I’m very casual about TV viewing, I don’t do a lot of it. I rarely watch films or weekly programs, whatever I watch is almost always in HD. I do watch sports but prefer it live.
I sit and flip through the channels, if I find something that interset me I watch it, I rarely plan to watch any one program.

I totally appreciate the functionality of a DVR but I’m very casual about TV viewing, I don’t do a lot of it. I rarely watch films or weekly programs, whatever I watch is almost always in HD. I do watch sports but prefer it live.
I sit and flip through the channels, if I find something that interset me I watch it, I rarely plan to watch any one program.

Depending on where you live you sound like a perfect candidate for off-the-air. You'd save a ton of money and I hear the quality with digital is great.

-Ken

Depending on where you live you sound like a perfect candidate for off-the-air. You'd save a ton of money and I hear the quality with digital is great.

-Ken

I think it's over-the-air

Depending on where you live you sound like a perfect candidate for off-the-air. You'd save a ton of money and I hear the quality with digital is great.

-Ken

I had HD OTA for years and it was superb. Sudbury MA back then.

It will be interesting to see if CableCARD-equipped televisions get addressed in regards to SDV conversion.I suspect that tru2way will address that need. Existing televisions are out-of-luck, though, unless they have a means of updating their on-board software or firmware, and even then, the best information I've seen is that television makers are likely not to spend time or money developing such an update (probably because too few customers would be willing to pay enough for such an update), instead referring customers to purchase a new television with the new technology built-into it (once they become available).

I suspect that tru2way will address that need. Existing televisions are out-of-luck, though, unless they have a means of updating their on-board software or firmware, and even then, the best information I've seen is that television makers are likely not to spend time or money developing such an update (probably because too few customers would be willing to pay enough for such an update), instead referring customers to purchase a new television with the new technology built-into it (once they become available).

Yeah, I can see it now. Comcast: since you have one of those old CableCards, you will no longer be able to recieve all of your channels but if you upgrade to one of our STB's, everything will work just fine! Cha-Ching Cha-Ching!

Depending on where you live you sound like a perfect candidate for off-the-air. You'd save a ton of money and I hear the quality with digital is great.

-Ken

Hows that going to help if he likes to watch some of the encrypted HD channels?

He makes a valid point on why he doesn't want a DVR and OTA has nothing to do with it.

Hows that going to help if he likes to watch some of the encrypted HD channels?

He makes a valid point on why he doesn't want a DVR and OTA has nothing to do with it.


Correct; Over the air are only locals I believe, I still like having Discovery, History, ESPN, etc.

My relatives just bought a high end home. The listing mentions HU cable TV...I've searched but can't find out what it means. Anyone know?

My relatives just bought a high end home. The listing mentions HU cable TV...I've searched but can't find out what it means. Anyone know?

I've seen HU used to describe Washer and Dryer as well. Not sure what it means though.

I think it loosely translates to "more expensive"

So I didn't realize my 12 month $99.99 bundle expired a few weeks ago and only learned of it when I called Comcast to address a billing issue. Like some of you guys I could only get the $129.99 bundle but boy does Comcast make their bills complicated. For a few weeks I wasn't on a bundle so I was getting charged ridiculous amounts for the individual services. Since I switched to the $129.99 bundle mid-billing cycle my latest bill has a ton of prorated charges and credits and boy is it hard to follow.

Anyways, just venting :).

S-HD has changed to STZ1H in the guide.

So I didn't realize my 12 month $99.99 bundle expired a few weeks ago and only learned of it when I called Comcast to address a billing issue. Like some of you guys I could only get the $129.99 bundle but boy does Comcast make their bills complicated. For a few weeks I wasn't on a bundle so I was getting charged ridiculous amounts for the individual services. Since I switched to the $129.99 bundle mid-billing cycle my latest bill has a ton of prorated charges and credits and boy is it hard to follow.

Anyways, just venting :).

I knew up in advance my bundle was expirining so I called in advance. I asked to either reenew or I would make cutbacks. They renewed but I am in a fios town,though it is not available in my building.

OTOH I have the $159 bundle

I've seen HU used to describe Washer and Dryer as well. Not sure what it means though.

I've see HE for washers and dryers
when I see HU I think DirecTV access card

My relatives just bought a high end home. The listing mentions HU cable TV...I've searched but can't find out what it means. Anyone know?

HU stands for Hook Up in home listings. Usually listed as H/U.

I knew up in advance my bundle was expirining so I called in advance. I asked to either reenew or I would make cutbacks. They renewed but I am in a fios town,though it is not available in my building.

OTOH I have the $159 bundle

Yeah, thanks, I saw your earlier post about this. I've seen some posts here saying they were able to get the $99 bundle a week after their bundle expired and others able to get the package by threatening to cancel their service. I'm going to give it a shot today.

What exactly is in the $159 bundle? I can't possibly see what other channels I need that aren't in the $129 bundle except maybe the channels in the sports entertainment pack.

HU stands for Hook Up in home listings. Usually listed as H/U.

Don't think so. It's listed as HU Cable, not Cable H/U... I'm guessing it stands for "head unit" as there is a whole house music system and the wall plates all have "video" listed as an option.