I did input 25.1 as well as 4.1, 5.1, 7.1 etc. nothing came up. all the HD locals are still on subchannels in the 86 - 87 range. Thats weird. How long have you had this setup? They probably have not gotten around to throwing the switch for my town yet. Another question, after this change, are you able to still see VOD on the 80, 81, 90, 91 subchannels? I am just waiting for that ship to sail any day now.

I noticed it on 2/27. I still VOD on 80,81,90 and 91.

Hey guys,
I also want to know if you can get both for your TV from the company or not? and Would it be needed, or an option? I am already getting an HD DVR on wed and wanted to know if i can use the cablecard for pic in pic or as an option as well (or just use a split adapter and use coax in ). If i do use a splitter or CC then will it take away from the picture quality? Meaning the more its split with cable does the tv image decrease , like with satellite . I have little info about Comcast and the cablecard. Thank you you all have been very helpful and im really looking forward to getting my locals in HD and a HD DVR as well

I have both STB (6412) and cablecard. The cablecard was installed in the same set as the STB by the installer using a splitter without any problem. I can see no degradation in PQ though I assume there is some signal reduction. I can see no difference between inputs in either SD or HD when I run the two inputs in side-by-side mode or switching between inputs. I'm looking at a 65" 1080p DLP so each image is +/- 30" when they're side-by-side.

I recently posted on this forum asking if it would be possible for me to get NESN HD while at school. I didn't think I would be able to get a digital box for my dorm but I realized that I can actually take a box I have at home that my parents are loaning from Comcast and bring it to school since I'm basically the only one who uses it when I'm home. My school also uses Comcast cable. Would I be able to get NESN HD and ESPN HD without paying extra service fee's (which would probably be impossible to pay seeing it's a dorm)? I kind of feel like this probably wouldn't work but I guess it's worth a shot... I want to get an HDTV but not being able to watch the Sox in HD would be a huge drawback.

Now that Cox has WPRI-DT and WNAC-DT on cable in Rhode Island, will Linn want those channels on Comcast in SE Mass. in the Providence DMA?

I recently posted on this forum asking if it would be possible for me to get NESN HD while at school. I didn't think I would be able to get a digital box for my dorm but I realized that I can actually take a box I have at home that my parents are loaning from Comcast and bring it to school since I'm basically the only one who uses it when I'm home. My school also uses Comcast cable. Would I be able to get NESN HD and ESPN HD without paying extra service fee's (which would probably be impossible to pay seeing it's a dorm)? I kind of feel like this probably wouldn't work but I guess it's worth a shot... I want to get an HDTV but not being able to watch the Sox in HD would be a huge drawback.

doubtful unless your school is in the same community.

I recently posted on this forum asking if it would be possible for me to get NESN HD while at school. I didn't think I would be able to get a digital box for my dorm but I realized that I can actually take a box I have at home that my parents are loaning from Comcast and bring it to school since I'm basically the only one who uses it when I'm home. My school also uses Comcast cable. Would I be able to get NESN HD and ESPN HD without paying extra service fee's (which would probably be impossible to pay seeing it's a dorm)? I kind of feel like this probably wouldn't work but I guess it's worth a shot... I want to get an HDTV but not being able to watch the Sox in HD would be a huge drawback.
This all depends on what system controls the area you live in. It's definately worth the time to see if it would work, pulling in channels. You may find that your settop works to tune channels but doesn't get VOD as VOD is a two-way service. Your settop being on the incorrect return system would stop the VOD from working. BTW, your parents account could get terminated and suspended as relocating a settop box is a significant violation of the service terms and agreement. If I were you and I was to venture into relocating the settop box I'd setup an account at my parents house under my own name and keep them out of it.

Yes, 23 days ago. Not an exchange as I was using cablecard and took them up on the triple play.
Wilmington office did not have any either, the CSR checked their entire stack on the shelf (3412's only), and she did not expect to see any more of them in the future. I guess we will have to wait for the new boxes this summer... any word on what size DVR's will be available with the DCH series?

EDIT: I see on Motorola's website that the DCH3416 is the only all-digital box listed... so 160GB for now.

I contacted CS at Comcast today to find out about cablecards, and what reciever I might be getting. I was told I can pick a card up at an office, or any retail store that carries it. My question is how much are they to buy and what stores sell them? Also He told me I would be getting the newest motorolla HD DVR. I had seen posts about new software upgrades for the hd cable boxes and was wondering how they are updated? Is it done by the installer or spftware from menu? And does the new motorolla have this featureor not. Thanks again

Can anyone see the Celtics game in HD ? It seems to be frozen. It's fine in SD.

Zero, CableCARDs are only available through Comcast installation. They told you wrong.

Software updates are done by Comcast when they are ready to push them out to the set tops.

Mallego

Why would he tell me just to pick one up? then? He also said at the office or best buy/ circuit city should i call to add one then or are they not worth getting? Please answer as they are installing this wed am. Can i use this with hd dvr (i want it for my pip) or just use coax in tv and hdr? which is best Pq and easier /best choice

You evidently have misunderstood several aspects of your conversation with Comcast. I would call back first thing on Monday and be sure you understand what you're told before you hang up.

Why would he tell me just to pick one up? then? He also said at the office or best buy/ circuit city should i call to add one then or are they not worth getting? Please answer as they are installing this wed am. Can i use this with hd dvr (i want it for my pip) or just use coax in tv and hdr? which is best Pq and easier /best choice


Sounds like maybe he was talking about a cable modem, not a cable card.

NO I told him CABLECARD he replied as I said, Im not stupid and I know what I called about and what we were talking about. Thats what he said, you still didnt answer if it was worth getting or not . I really cant believe you would post that I misunderstood him, I didnt

NO I told him CABLECARD he replied as I said, Im not stupid and I know what I called about and what we were talking about. Thats what he said, you still didnt answer if it was worth getting or not . I really cant believe you would post that I misunderstood him, I didnt

No need to get defensive; we are here to help each other, anything is possible with first level tech.

Your right Im sorry, But I hate being talked down to. All he had to say was the guy was wromg if he is 100% sure, as no one else has said yes or no.. The CSR told me they were sold at the store or office has them for pick up (cablecard no modem,). And thats what a comcast rep said. That guy said I mis understood I didnt, also Im not sure that guy is correct, is he a comcast employee or tech?

Your right Im sorry, But I hate being talked down to. All he had to say was the guy was wromg if he is 100% sure, as no one else has said yes or no.. The CSR told me they were sold at the store or office has them for pick up (cablecard no modem,). And thats what a comcast rep said. That guy said I mis understood I didnt, also Im not sure that guy is correct, is he a comcast employee or tech?

Cable Card is installed by Comcast tech with an appointment. I have 2 of them on Panasonic TV's. Once installed, tech calls station and they sent signal with channels you are to receive and the CC will decrypt them.
From what I know you can't by them and you can't pick them up.

As it is, it seems some of us have misunderstood you here in the thread, so clearly communication problems do happen. As I suggested, you should call Comcast and ask all the questions again, calmly and without getting defensive or aggressive, being sure that both you and the person you're talking to understand each other. This will help prevent you from wasting time on Wednesday, and being left without service because there was some fundamental bit of information missing. I hope that helps.

Your right Im sorry, But I hate being talked down to. All he had to say was the guy was wromg if he is 100% sure, as no one else has said yes or no.. The CSR told me they were sold at the store or office has them for pick up (cablecard no modem,). And thats what a comcast rep said. That guy said I mis understood I didnt, also Im not sure that guy is correct, is he a comcast employee or tech?

Relax....jeez. I didn't "talk down to" you or imply you misunderstood. It's simply the "you can buy one at Best Buy or Circuit City" line, a cable modem is the only thing I can think of that would fit that part of your conversation. I've never heard of cable cards being sold retail. More likely the CSR was clueless, not you.

Why would he tell me just to pick one up? then? He also said at the office or best buy/ circuit city should i call to add one then or are they not worth getting? Please answer as they are installing this wed am. Can i use this with hd dvr (i want it for my pip) or just use coax in tv and hdr? which is best Pq and easier /best choice

There are some locations that allow you to walk down to your local Comcast office and pick up the CableCARDs so that you can install them yourself. Other locations require a truck roll, where the installer must bring the CableCARDs with him when he's going to install them in your equipment. It varies from region to region. Around here, the truck roll is usually what happens.

In Bedford NH, I called and asked, and they said I could just pick up the cable cards at the local Comcast office, and they could activate them over the phone.

Once I got to the Nashua office, they looked up the work order on their PC, said that it required a truck roll, but since they'd promised me I could do it myself, they elected not to charge me for the home visit.

So, I got the truck roll for free, and the install of the two cable cards into my TiVo Series 3 went off with a small hitch (they misread a number over the phone the first time), but the installer detected this before I even realized he was having problems. It was a short visit, and all has worked since then.

Hey guys,
I have a Westinghouse 32" and am using QAM to tune into the local broadcast HD channels (ABC/NBC, etc). Anyway, I did a rescan yesterday and now all the HD channels I care about (84.x - 87.x) are no longer being picked up. it goes from 81.x straight to 88-1. The Westinghouse is a bit crappy and won't let you add channels in manually properly, so now I have no way to get all those channels back unless I do a limited scan in which case I can get it to lock onto one single channel like 84-1 ABC, but only one at a time.

I noticed some other people with Panasonics having problems with something else QAM related too, not sure if it's related.

Bottom line: if you already have channels scanned in through QAM, don't rescan for now :(

NO I told him CABLECARD he replied as I said, Im not stupid and I know what I called about and what we were talking about. Thats what he said, you still didnt answer if it was worth getting or not . I really cant believe you would post that I misunderstood him, I didnt
Zeroredrum,

I am sure you understand exactly what the Comcast Rep said. Since no one is more knoweldgeable that a comcast rep and that they are never wrong, you should go buy the "cablecard" from Bestbuy. BB has 30 days money back guarantee so you can always return the item if you don't like it.

Hi All,

I just got off the phone with Comcast on Lowell MA, I was trying to find out what all I needed to start receiving HD for my new plasma. I wanted to know if I already had an HD box, but the lady couldn't help me.

I currently have the silver Comcast (moto) stb. It has hdmi out. Is this not the HD DVR? I was under the impression that after I turned in my non-functioning box last year, they gave me an HD one in return. Why would it have hdmi if it's not the hd box? :)

If it IS the hd box, what do I need to do to start receiving HD? Just call them and ask?

Thanks

Comcast Boston HD Channel Lineup
=====================================================
Based on lineup in Lawrence Ma 03-06-07
=====================================================
Channel Network Tier required
/////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////////
802 PBS HD channel Basic
804 WBZ (CBS) Basic
805 WCVB (ABC) Basic
807 WHDH (NBC) Basic
809 WMUR (ABC) Basic
821 National Geo Starter (Despite National Geo SD on Classic)
825 WFXT (Fox) Basic
828 MHD Starter AND Classic
833 TNT Classic
838 WSBK Basic
839 Discovery HD Theater Classic
846 Universal HD Classic
848 Verses / Golf HD Starter
849 ESPN Classic
850 ESPN 2 Starter
851 NESN Starter
856 WLVI (CW) Basic
868 Cinemax Cinemax
870 HBO HBO
875 Starz Starz
877 Showtime Showtime
881 INHD / FSN-HD Classic

The website is a bit confusing. From the "My Channel Lineup" page

* Standard Cable (Basic Cable plus Expanded Basic Cable) must be purchased in order to receive Channels 2 through 98 with any Digital Cable Package. Customers who subscribe to Basic Cable only will receive up to 26 channels in addition to those included with the Digital package of their choosing.

Can I get basic cable and digital starter and get all the HD channels except the premium movie ones ?

The website is a bit confusing. From the "My Channel Lineup" page



Can I get basic cable and digital starter and get all the HD channels except the premium movie ones ?

Digital Starter is extended basic with a box. Digital starter with Classic will get you all the non premium HD channels.

(The sports and Entertainment tier will probably be the place for HDNet)

OK, I got my HD all fired up. I'm miffed that I don't get ESPNHD, TNTHD, and a few others due to my level of digital cable (starter). The sales guy tried to sell me the higher digital package just to get ESPNHD.

Where's ESPN8 HD? The ocho! ;)

OK, I got my HD all fired up. I'm miffed that I don't get ESPNHD, TNTHD, and a few others due to my level of digital cable (starter). The sales guy tried to sell me the higher digital package just to get ESPNHD.

Where's ESPN8 HD? The ocho! ;)

MHD,TNT,Discovery HT,UHD,and eSPN1 HD require Digital Classic.

Digital Starter is extended basic with a box. Digital starter with Classic will get you all the non premium HD channels.

(The sports and Entertainment tier will probably be the place for HDNet)

How does the new non-tier pricing work ? What is I want digital service without a box ? Is there anyway to get all the non premium HD channels with getting extended basic ?

How does the new non-tier pricing work ? What is I want digital service without a box ? Is there anyway to get all the non premium HD channels with getting extended basic ?

look at my chart. Channels listed as requiring starter REQUIRE EXTENDED BASIC!

Digital Starter is extended basic with a box. Digital starter with Classic will get you all the non premium HD channels.

(The sports and Entertainment tier will probably be the place for HDNet)

So who's the one that started the rumor about this mysterious Sports and Entertainment tier?

I hope this is the place to post this.

I have a basic cable package through Comcast here in boston. With it I get HD channels like CBS, NBC, ABC, etc. I want to capture those with my tuner (the miglia tvmini hd), but the tuner can't seem to find these hd channels when i hook it up to my cable even though it CAN tune clearQAM. So has anyone else tried anything like this? Does comcast pass these channels in the clear in boston?

So who's the one that started the rumor about this mysterious Sports and Entertainment tier?

There IS a Sports and entertainment Tier. It is a merger opf the old Premiere pack and Sports tier.

The cost is $7.95 extra or $4 with Digital platinum (all the movie channels)

the tuner can't seem to find these hd channels when i hook it up to my cable even though it CAN tune clearQAM. So has anyone else tried anything like this? Does comcast pass these channels in the clear in boston?I'm not sure why you're not able to find them. They were there just a few weeks ago (last time I checked). I think they're up in the 87, 88 range. I've had no problem any time in the past tuning in the HD locals on Comcast in the Boston area.

I'm not sure why you're not able to find them. They were there just a few weeks ago (last time I checked). I think they're up in the 87, 88 range. I've had no problem any time in the past tuning in the HD locals on Comcast in the Boston area.


For Clear QAM, my local HD's recently moved to 4-1, 5-1, 7-1, 25-1 etc. from their former 86, 87 subchannel range. Try tuning to these.

My understanding is that they didn't "move" anything, but rather simply started sending PSIP. Maybe there is a problem with jforeman's equipment's ability to use the PSIP that Comcast is now sending?

For Clear QAM, my local HD's recently moved to 4-1, 5-1, 7-1, 25-1 etc. from their former 86, 87 subchannel range. Try tuning to these.

It's very likely that the HDs didn't move from their previous subchannel ranges, that their assignments were simply re-mapped via PSIP. So, they're still on the same frequencies on the wire (88-7 and such), but are displayed to you in a more human-readable form (25-1).

I still have my QAM channels in the 87-88 range, I would suggest anyone who can't find them anymore to do a rescan.

I still have my QAM channels in the 87-88 range, I would suggest anyone who can't find them anymore to do a rescan.


I believe anyone doing a rescan in the Boston/S. NH area will find they do in fact re-map to 2.2,2.1,5.1,7.1,7.2, etc.

WOW, thats all i have to say. I got my NEW Comcast HD DVR and package installed yesterday (as i posted before it was getting installed soon) and All I have to Say Is.... AMAZING. The funniest thing is my wife usually couldn't care about HD vs SDTV and when i decided to switch she wasn't supportive (she doesn't care about HDTV). But the funniest thing happened last night we were watching Tv and she had the remote and she said wow these tv channels look great, they are so clear 9non HD locals) and before she even hit the HD shows complimented on how great the cable looked compared to what we had before, then i said let me see the remote and switched to HD locals and she was floored, its the first time i actually got her to admit HD was better and that It looked better. She even commented on how the colors were more bright and vivid and that the channels looked clear while switching between them and that HDTV (we watched the new movie Th Wild, a kids cartoon and it was really amazing), the DTV PQ varied so much each channel was different with muddy colors, pixleation and washed out colors, unlike comcast where each channel looked high res and each was similar and they got better in hd but overall its 2x better all around channel to channel and blows dtv out of the water

The PQ is outstanding, i previously had DTV with HD (no locals due to having to pay over 600 to upgrade to mpeg4) which looked good (at least i thought) but once i viewed Comcast HD i was Blown away. The PQ is so much) better than the DTV service i was getting, Dtv had 480i output with a poor upscaler which did upscale to 480p on non HD, but with the new motorola Comcast box its out put in TRUE 480p and 1080i which to my surprise is so much clearer and more detailed. All the channels look great on Comcast where on Dtv they went from good HD to poor locals which had alot of pixilation and blocky ness most the time esp in cloudy weather. The crystal clear pics are amazing as well as Awesome HD on demand, All the BS satellite pushes about 100% digital and better than cable is so funny, Comcast has 2X the resolution an PQ IMO, i am so glad i signed up and switched, best of all no contracts no equiptment to buy and 1 yr locked price for all 3 (phone, broadband and HD cable). Anyone that is thinking about switching can be assured you wont be disappointed.

WOW, thats all i have to say...
That's all true, but it's better to not say that here. Comcast may read this and decide to raise their rates again. So repeat after me: "It's Comcrap! ... Why is 845 a freakin' SD weather channel? ... When are they gonna add HDnet?" You'll get the hang of it.

Mickey

That's all true, but it's better to not say that here. Comcast may read this and decide to raise their rates again. So repeat after me: "It's Comcrap! ... Why is 845 a freakin' SD weather channel? ... When are they gonna add HDnet?" You'll get the hang of it.

Mickey

When ARE they going to add HDNet? Is the Sports and Entertainment tier the one that has FSC and the Tennis Channel or is it something else? (And why waste limited bandwidth on 845. It's the freakin' SD weather channel! :))

They'll probably add HDNet when HDNet allows them to add HDNet in to a service tier.

They'll probably add HDNet when HDNet allows them to add HDNet in to a service tier.

I think Comcast has other ideas. With them doing away with INHD2 and INHD having hardly any movies on it now the only place to see a good HD movie is, you guessed it OnDemand! Thats right! besides a few old movies they throw in for free, if you want to see a good recent movie your gonna have to pay for it and right now thats 5.99 a whack. Seems like this is the road their heading down so I don't think we'll see HDnet anytime soon.

They'll probably add HDNet when HDNet allows them to add HDNet in to a service tier.

I was assuming it would be the sports and Entertainment tier. :)

The one thing Marc cuban could offer comcast = HDNet on Demand!

chitchatjf = broken record !!!

So who's the one that started the rumor about this mysterious Sports and Entertainment tier?

i thought we were losing nfl network?

i thought we were losing nfl network?

Nope Still part of Digital prefered.

I think Comcast has other ideas. With them doing away with INHD2 and INHD having hardly any movies on it now the only place to see a good HD movie is, you guessed it OnDemand! Thats right! besides a few old movies they throw in for free, if you want to see a good recent movie your gonna have to pay for it and right now thats 5.99 a whack. Seems like this is the road their heading down so I don't think we'll see HDnet anytime soon.The OnDemand HD movies aren't usually OAR or 5.1 so for $6 a pop I'll have to pass on them. That being the case you'd be better off just subscribing to a premium movie channel.

For the freebie stuff there occasionally is a good one in there every once in a while (OnDemand HD). I just watched Navy Seals, and it was quite good. OAR, even though DD2.1, gave my sub quite a workout. Check it out if you get a chance.

As for the free movie channels, there is UHD, and while not the best, it's the only one we have right now, so it's hard to complain when we only have one. As you say, INHD shows virtually no movies anymore, so we have to rely on whatever comes on UHD- watch them very closely for "oneshots", I find they are now more and more frequently starting to show movies once and only once, "Jaws" was only on once in Jan (if you can believe it), and Mary Shelly's Frankenstein and Bordello of Blood as well...

The OnDemand HD movies aren't usually OAR or 5.1 so for $6 a pop I'll have to pass on them. That being the case you'd be better off just subscribing to a premium movie channel.

For the freebie stuff there occasionally is a good one in there every once in a while (OnDemand HD). I just watched Navy Seals, and it was quite good. OAR, even though DD2.1, gave my sub quite a workout. Check it out if you get a chance.

As for the free movie channels, there is UHD, and while not the best, it's the only one we have right now, so it's hard to complain when we only have one. As you say, INHD shows virtually no movies anymore, so we have to rely on whatever comes on UHD- watch them very closely for "oneshots", I find they are now more and more frequently starting to show movies once and only once, "Jaws" was only on once in Jan (if you can believe it), and Mary Shelly's Frankenstein and Bordello of Blood as well...

Thats exactly my point, if you sign up for a premium movie channel it cost you more money, a OnDemand movie besides those few freebies, more money. Why would Comcast want HDnet when they can get more money out of the HD fans doing it this way. As for UHD's PQ, it is terrible and because of it I never watch the channel, TNT, I won't even go there. So what does that leave? not very much I'm sad to say. So If your into movies the only choice seems to be HD DVD or Bluray and not wait for Comcast to add something that is not going to benefit their bottom line.

So is everybody enjoying the "announcer-less" Sox game on NESN? ;)

Their audio mix is way off, so the ambient sound is up full and the announcers are way in the background.... it's like being at the game, except there are two guys sitting about five rows behind you who are talking constantly.

Update... they fixed it after the 1st inning. Bummer...

is anyone else having freezes on 849? (ESPNHD)

will A&E HD be on Comcast when ESPNClassic is dropped from analog on 3/31/07? This seems to be the one HD channel being added to other Comcast systems around the Country and not yet here. From other psts on AVS we will see more HD channels coming in the 2ns Half of 2007, but how many will Comcast-NE carry?

is anyone else having freezes on 849? (ESPNHD)

Was it during the ACC tournament final? That game was blacked out on ESPN and shown via ACC syndication on 838. Looked pretty good, some buzzing on the audio, though.

My 6412 II has been working pretty well for a while, but is now having issues of freezing on newly recorded shows (old recordings still work fine). I'm thinking it's time to trade it in, but hear there are shortages of DVRs. Has anyone called their local office before going down and been able to find out if they have boxes available? If so, does anyone know the phone number for the Lowell office? Thanks!

I can't speak to a shortage of DVRs, but Google says the phone# for 650 Suffolk Street in Lowell is (978) 455-5179.

Was it during the ACC tournament final? That game was blacked out on ESPN and shown via ACC syndication on 838. Looked pretty good, some buzzing on the audio, though.

Coming from Dish network I'm used to seeing a message when a game is blacked out. Does Comcast typically do this also? I figured 849 was all black because 838 had the games, but a message would be better than a black screen.

Milford has several 3416's. I returned my 3412 on Friday for a 3416. My wife returned that one on Monday do to a very loud fan. Lady behind the counter told her all 3416's were louder, but gave her a new one. This 3416 is silent!

Coming from Dish network I'm used to seeing a message when a game is blacked out. Does Comcast typically do this also? I figured 849 was all black because 838 had the games, but a message would be better than a black screen.
Blackout on HD is just that - black. Is too bandwidth intensive to service alternate HD programs in place of blackout restricted content. An SD overly might cause processing equipment to not function properly. An overlyay is a large expense for an operator to invest in just to show a black screen w/overlay

I can't speak to a shortage of DVRs, but Google says the phone# for 650 Suffolk Street in Lowell is (978) 455-5179.

Thanks. Not sure what office that is, but the Lowell office for swapping boxes turned out to be on Washer Street and has no external phone number. I was able to get a 3416 without any problem.

Coming from Dish network I'm used to seeing a message when a game is blacked out. Does Comcast typically do this also? I figured 849 was all black because 838 had the games, but a message would be better than a black screen.

I've never seen any notice, either it's a black screen or the previous channel is "frozen" on the screen, which is what I assumed you were seeing.

Much to my dismany, given all the advertising, not all NCAA tournament games will be broadcast in HD. Just got off the phone with someone over at WBZ who said something about having only so many transmitters. When pressed, she said she could only tell me what New York told her. She said as the tournament goes on, more and mroe games will be in HD.

I hope they're prepared to answer a ton of calls, especially with BC playing in the first game.

Boston was listed as being a "Constant" area and should be showing the BC game in HD. All games are broadcast in HD from the sites.

larry

The game is listed on WBZ web site as being in HD. They didn't even show the national feed (Gumble and the guys) in HD. They are f'ing up some how.

I just called 617-787-7000 and got one guy who put me through to somebody else whose anwering machine picked up. I just left a message and told them they were flubbing it somehow and please look into it. :)

Boston was listed as being a "Constant" area and should be showing the BC game in HD...
Unfortunately, the "constants" will all be shown in SD. The others (called "flex") will be HD, but will skip around to the better games.

BC and Holly Cross are the constants for this area.

Mickey

Thanks. I got the "contants" and "flex" mixed up, at least wrt SD vs HD. It still doesn't make sense to me when all the games are sourced in HD.

larry

Thanks. I got the "contants" and "flex" mixed up, at least wrt SD vs HD. It still doesn't make sense to me when all the games are sourced in HD.

larry
I think it has to do with network only able to transmit 3 or 4 HD feeds at a time. The "constants" are additional feeds since they are not flexing with the HD feeds, so those are limited to SD.

Mickey

My 6412 II has been working pretty well for a while, but is now having issues of freezing on newly recorded shows (old recordings still work fine). I'm thinking it's time to trade it in, but hear there are shortages of DVRs. Has anyone called their local office before going down and been able to find out if they have boxes available? If so, does anyone know the phone number for the Lowell office? Thanks!

I exchanged a busted 3412 this morning in Westford, MA, and they gave me a new 3416.

I think it has to do with network only able to transmit 3 or 4 HD feeds at a time. The "constants" are additional feeds since they are not flexing with the HD feeds, so those are limited to SD.

MickeyAfter I thought about it, it makes sense that a constant feed can't be HD. They'd need a separate HD feed for each constant feed. Too many. But, why couldn't the constant feed be put on WBZ SD and put the flex (national) on WBZ HD? If you have to see all of the game you're gonna see it in SD anyway.

larry

Are you getting multiple games on multiple channels in Boston on Comcast?

In RI Cox/Channel 12 CBS gives RI the primary game in HD and added two additional Digital SD channels (Yea, I wish they were also HD :rolleyes: ) and one OTA SD channel.

The schedule is below:

http://ww2.wpri.com/global/Story.asp?s=6225120

So you get to watch Vanderbilt destroy George Washington (did this team really beat URI in the A10 Final?) during the news hour.

Is Comcast offering similar coverage?

I'm using the Motorola non-DVR HD settop box from Comcast... I can never figure out what the model number is on these things, I think it's DCT-34xx or DCT-64xx. Anyway it's *just* the HD box, no DVR as I said. It has a DVI output (no HDMI :mad: ) and is running firmware version 16.20.

This firmware version has a ****** bug where the video output on the DVI port is corrupted, forcing me to go analog and use the component video port. Grr.

Apparently there's a new firmware rev out (16.35) which fixes this bug.

How do I get this? Do I have to sit and wait until Comcast decides to push it to my box? Can I request it?

I'm using the Motorola non-DVR HD settop box from Comcast... I can never figure out what the model number is on these things, I think it's DCT-34xx or DCT-64xx. Anyway it's *just* the HD box, no DVR as I said. It has a DVI output (no HDMI :mad: ) and is running firmware version 16.20.

This firmware version has a ****** bug where the video output on the DVI port is corrupted, forcing me to go analog and use the component video port. Grr.

Apparently there's a new firmware rev out (16.35) which fixes this bug.

How do I get this? Do I have to sit and wait until Comcast decides to push it to my box? Can I request it?

You probably have a 6200. It should be on the bottom of the box somewhere...You can't request new firmware. When your headend is ready for it, it will get pushed out to everyone. Different areas of the country get them at different speeds. Some people don't even have 16.20 yet.

You probably have a 6200. It should be on the bottom of the box somewhere...You can't request new firmware. When your headend is ready for it, it will get pushed out to everyone. Different areas of the country get them at different speeds. Some people don't even have 16.20 yet.

Ah ok. That's what I figured. Thanks, I appreciate the response!

804 has no weather cut ins this is great

Was it during the ACC tournament final? That game was blacked out on ESPN and shown via ACC syndication on 838. Looked pretty good, some buzzing on the audio, though.

that was it

Has anyone else noticed that NESN HD occasionally slips in a 720p commercial in the middle of their 1080i hockey broadcasts (both Bruins and Hockey East)?

I think the only way you can see this is through some CableCard enabled device. Pretty much every Comcast box/DVR lacks a "native" output option, right? I see it using my Tivo S3, configured for native output. It's mildly irritating, because my TV (Mitsubishi WD-65732) takes several seconds to switch resolutions, so when I'm fast forwarding through the commercials I overshoot the end because it takes too long for the TV to switch to 720p and then back to 1080i.

I didn't even know it was possible for a channel to switch like that. I thought you had to make the choice before you even buy the hardware to do HD :) Or maybe it's Comcast slipping a "local" commercial in? As I recall, most of them have been car/truck ads, but probably not all of them.

Got a message on the box today that Bloomberg is going digital-only. There are reports coming in from various regions that A&E HD is being added. I wonder if the first move is making way for the second.

Although from everything I've heard from people who've seen A&E HD, it's not that big a deal. Stretch-o-vision abounds (like with TNT), and there's even less worthwhile HD. Keep your expectations low on this one, at least for the time being.

Bloomberg has ALWAYS been digital pnly.

It is just going from sports and Entertainment to Digital Classic.

No sign of 837 (the likely home of AnE HD)

Got a message on the box today that Bloomberg is going digital-only. There are reports coming in from various regions that A&E HD is being added. I wonder if the first move is making way for the second.

Although from everything I've heard from people who've seen A&E HD, it's not that big a deal. Stretch-o-vision abounds (like with TNT), and there's even less worthwhile HD. Keep your expectations low on this one, at least for the time being.

Yeah I agree, this is a channel I could really care less about and probably will hardly watch. I rather have them save the bandwidth for the weather channel which goes HD in Sept but thats just me.

ESPN Classic is going digital only on 3/31. Like to see a couple of more analogs go to free up HD bandwidth for A&E, Weather and the other HD chanels coming on in 2007. Direct TV will be adding in 2nd half of 2007, and hope that cable will do the same. Like to see chs 2-60 and 95-99 for analog and rest freed up for digital . Thats about 65 channles kept analog which would include 20 broadcast and local orginations channels.

this is mylist for cable channels kept analog:
Disney
NIck
MSNBC
MTV
VH-1
Fx
TBS
HGTV
TNT
USA
Lifetime
Discovery
Food Net
FOXNews
CNN
CNN Headline
CSPAN!
CSPAN2
CNBC
Weather Ch.
ESPN
ESPN2
NESN
FSN
Spike
AMC
SCI-FI
TVLand
VS

the ones not listed wouldnt mind seeing go to digital classic .....

This is a list of the channels i think MUST stay on analog:


















You get the picture? Offer DCT 700s FREE for a year. (ONE FREE box per household!)

So I totally flaked and forgot to set up that "35 Years" special. Did it give any hints as to the future?

I watched and recorded it (gotsa love mythtv), it was in HD (parts atleast) which was great, basically said more towards the internet and HD, but nothing specific (ie no mention of HD newscasts etc) which was disappointing, but rumors on the net are saying may, who knows!

I grew tired of the self-congratulations after 15 minutes and turned it off. I got more out of last night's all-dancing HD Chronicle!

Thanks. Not sure what office that is, but the Lowell office for swapping boxes turned out to be on Washer Street and has no external phone number. I was able to get a 3416 without any problem.

Can you double check that you got a 3416 and not a 3412? I have stopped by the Lowell office several times in the past month or two, and they claim to only have 3412's...

Can you double check that you got a 3416 and not a 3412? I have stopped by the Lowell office several times in the past month or two, and they claim to only have 3412's...

It absolutely is a 3416...The extra 40 GB is coming in VERY handy!

Anybody happen to notice that there is now a Showtime HD On Demand now?

Not much there yet (two movies), but it's a start.

Why is On-Demand such a hassle and awkward to navigate? There has got to be a better way.

We have the first two episodes of The Tutors in HD already.

Why is On-Demand such a hassle and awkward to navigate? There has got to be a better way.

Believe it or not, it used to be worse. Baby steps....

FWIW, my friend from Comcast told me tonight that HBO HD On Demand debuts on Monday.

FWIW, my friend from Comcast told me tonight that HBO HD On Demand debuts on Monday.

All I've heard was that this was coming sooner rather than later but I sure would love to see this happen on Monday. Only time will tell though right.

I'm using the Motorola non-DVR HD settop box from Comcast... I can never figure out what the model number is on these things, I think it's DCT-34xx or DCT-64xx. Anyway it's *just* the HD box, no DVR as I said. It has a DVI output (no HDMI :mad: ) and is running firmware version 16.20.

This firmware version has a ****** bug where the video output on the DVI port is corrupted, forcing me to go analog and use the component video port. Grr.

Apparently there's a new firmware rev out (16.35) which fixes this bug.

How do I get this? Do I have to sit and wait until Comcast decides to push it to my box? Can I request it?

16.20 has bugs in other areas like occasional freezes. I have had more then once had to reboot the DVR. I assume 16.35 will fix this as well,or do we have to wait until the Tivo interface becomes available?

If firmware would fix the occasional freezes, then software won't. Two different layers of the box.

In Derry, NH HBO has just added an HBO HD section within the HBO On Demand section. Currently only two very short titles are available I would expect that to increase soon.

I got a notice saying those with the legacy digital phopne service (NOT Digital voice) will not be able to make any further changes to the service as of May 1st.

I believe this is a step in phasing it out.

ESPN Classic on 48 ,analog, goes away today on Comcast. just on 258 digital tier. Wonder if A&E -HD will show up after 4/1.?

still here

The new bill also says Bloomberg will bec ome part of Digital Classic as of May 15th It already is!

It would be nice to get bloomberg back...I guess. it's a la cart where I am. Still wondering why we get WGN ?!? Heck we might as well get ONN if they want to keep adding stuff.

Hey I just noticed something....does anyone get wlvi in hd ? I get get it OTA but it seems to be the only local missing...that and we don't have the tube yet....I only see on zap2it about 7.5 hours of hd on that channel but still.

also where's the weather plus from whdh ? (7-2) I'm not saying we need another weather channel but we could probably lob off the RI channels from my area easily to make room.

I have had Comcast for many years. My monthly bill exceeds $125. I am about to switch to Fios because they have offered alot more for a little less money per month. Veizon also claims to have far superior HD quality. Can anyone confirm this? What can I expect Comcast to offer when I make the call to cancel? All suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Just wondering this, my cable box doesn't have hdmi, are there any comcast boxes that do have it? If so, how would I go about getting it?

Thanks.

It would be nice to get bloomberg back...I guess. it's a la cart where I am. Still wondering why we get WGN ?!? Heck we might as well get ONN if they want to keep adding stuff.

WGN? Where?

I had the SnE pack for awhile and when I turned it off I noticed I still have 246.

I have had Comcast for many years. My monthly bill exceeds $125. I am about to switch to Fios because they have offered alot more for a little less money per month. Veizon also claims to have far superior HD quality. Can anyone confirm this? What can I expect Comcast to offer when I make the call to cancel? All suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
Straight up I consider vz picture quality to be better than cc's. I've seen the two side by side at a buddy's house in Woburn. But this does remain subjective and not analytical. As for a theoretical comparison between the two system types, there is more bandwidth available to deliver video services on vz's fttp delivery network than on cc's hfc delivery network and therefore one must assume that the picture quality would be better on the vz network. Aside from bandwidth availability, picture quality does depend on how each company processes their video programming. If a provider uses equipment to reduce the required delivery bandwith of a program that provider could offer more programs, but the picture quality generally decreases when the program bitrate decreases.

As for the cc retention of your subscribership, I'm pretty sure you'll have to leave and then come back in four months in order to get a bundled discount, but they may offer you the bundled package to retain you, which would probably be around $130 plus premiums

ESPNC ,Ch.48 is not programmed on the converter box anymore. Box jumps from Weather Channel ,47 to ESPN 49. Does anyone with connected directly to cable without a box connected to a cable-ready analog tuner still get anything on 48? Wonder if space has been freed up for digital at that spectrum?

ESPNC ,Ch.48 is not programmed on the converter box anymore. Box jumps from Weather Channel ,47 to ESPN 49. Does anyone with connected directly to cable without a box connected to a cable-ready analog tuner still get anything on 48? Wonder if space has been freed up for digital at that spectrum?

snow on 48 analog. ESPN Classic is now on channel 258.

Hi Folks,

Can anybody tell me which channels from Comcast are available from Sharon, MA or neighboring towns (Norwood, Stoughton, Easton, Foxboro, Mansfield, Canton....) via QAM tuner? I have standard cable (analog 70+ channels)

Thanks!

Hi Folks,

Can anybody tell me which channels from Comcast are available from Sharon, MA or neighboring towns (Norwood, Stoughton, Easton, Foxboro, Mansfield, Canton....) via QAM tuner? I have standard cable (analog 70+ channels)

Thanks!

just locals and multiplex channels (NBC Weather,the Tube,and the GBX sub-channels) Other chqannels in limited basic are in the clear,but extended basic is encrypted.

Does anyone have any experience using Firewire to grab shows from the DCT-6200 or DCT-64xx to a PC in the Boston area? Apparently this works fine for channels without 5C encryption (generally local channels), but in some places other channels (TNT-HD, etc) are also not encrypted with 5C. There have been some reports recently that Comcast has been removing 5C encryption in various parts of the country (see mythtv user forums). I'm curious as to what channels are 5C encrypted in Boston.

Thanks,

Argus

Stupid question: Can you do a self install of a regular (non DVR) HD box?

Thanks,
Chris

Call the office and ask. I have done a self install of a DVR!

Does anyone have any experience using Firewire to grab shows from the DCT-6200 or DCT-64xx to a PC in the Boston area? Apparently this works fine for channels without 5C encryption (generally local channels), but in some places other channels (TNT-HD, etc) are also not encrypted with 5C. There have been some reports recently that Comcast has been removing 5C encryption in various parts of the country (see mythtv user forums). I'm curious as to what channels are 5C encrypted in Boston.

Thanks,

Argus
Go here SourceForge Site (http://replayguide.sourceforge.net/dct6412/) to read all about it. I have done this successfully but it only worked once. If I were to venture into doing this again I would do a clean install of Windows and have minimal hardware installed in my machine, no scsi cards, video capture or tuner cards, just to eliminate any possibility of resource conflicts. I'd even consider not installing an ethernet card as the IEEE1394 port is actually a network port. Once you're experienced in working the setup I'd then start bringing in my necessary hardware and verify all works as expected with the firewire transport each time a hardware is added. Once you determine the limitations you'll know how to run the system effectively.

Now that I think of it...you're probably better off sinking $179 into this puppy AutumnWave On-Air HDTV USB 2.0 (http://www.autumnwave.us/product_p/hdtv-gt.htm). My work has one and the thing is really awesome. You plug your cable wire into it and the thing displays any unencrypted digital cable signal on your desktop. You can record video in digital quality. I haven't tried to burn from the recorded movies but it can do time shifting and scheduling so it's really cool. Check it out. Oh yeah, and with this device every once in a while you can tune someones VOD movie if it is unencrypted!!

Just wondering this, my cable box doesn't have hdmi, are there any comcast boxes that do have it? If so, how would I go about getting it?

Thanks.

The 3416 has HDMI, you can try and pick one up at your nearest depot.

Does anyone have any experience using Firewire to grab shows from the DCT-6200 or DCT-64xx to a PC in the Boston area? Apparently this works fine for channels without 5C encryption (generally local channels), but in some places other channels (TNT-HD, etc) are also not encrypted with 5C. There have been some reports recently that Comcast has been removing 5C encryption in various parts of the country (see mythtv user forums). I'm curious as to what channels are 5C encrypted in Boston.

Yes, I've been doing this for a while. Up until recently, only locals were available, but a few weeks ago, 5C was removed from Discovery, ESPN, TNT, INHD, etc. I've been away for 2 weeks, so I hope it's still that way....not sure if this is permanent or not.

I've had good luck with it, but every once in a while I get a funky recording on my 6412 that is garbled or comes across with some odd artifacts.

Now that extra innings is back, I hear there is a free preview going on. But I couldn't find any games either of the last two nights, and there aren't any listed in the guide for the next couple days.

In the past these games have been on channels 621-630. Is this still the case? I did notice I now have access to the Center Ice games on these channels, so is this simply a matter of waiting for the hockey season to end this weekend or are the baseball games on some other channels?

My understanding that the $159 cost is only available during the free preview, which isn't much help when the free preview cannot be found.

The free preview is up this morning.

Does anyone know how much a second digital box is ? I have digital classic.

-Ken

The free preview is up this morning.

Does anyone know how much a second digital box is ? I have digital classic.

-Ken

Sweet! Now I'm looking forward to the weekend even more.

I have Digital Classic and Preferred and my additional digital outlet costs a total of $7.50 (3.79 for the box, 0.20 for the remote and 3.51 for digital access). We have that in the bedroom, and they game me one of those new boxes that is really small, looks like the cable modem.

Now if they would only add the missing "GAME" channels: 11 thru 14. There was baseball last night in EI, just not for us :(

"Game HD" would be nice too :)

Now if they would only add the missing "GAME" channels: 11 thru 14. There was baseball last night in EI, just not for us :(

"Game HD" would be nice too :)


Yeah, the HD games would be nice. But they'd never use up the bandwidth on a channel so few of their subscribers would pay for. I'm holding out hope iNHD will broadcast one or two games a week like they did last year.

Yeah, the HD games would be nice. But they'd never use up the bandwidth on a channel so few of their subscribers would pay for. I'm holding out hope iNHD will broadcast one or two games a week like they did last year.

Since there is such a thing as GAME HD I would assume the Mojo games are a thing of the past.

It looks like an HBO free preview is happening this weekend in addition to the MLB Extra Innings showcase.

It looks like an HBO free preview is happening this weekend in addition to the MLB Extra Innings showcase.Thanks for pointing it out. I just noticed it right this second after reading your post.

Is it possible to get PIP with a Comcast box? Must the TV have to have 2 tuners?

As a possible indicator of our future, here's an article on what Comcast Chicago is doing to switch customers to digital:

http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/chi-0704050706apr06,0,2945392.story?coll=chi-business-hed

As a possible indicator of our future, here's an article on what Comcast Chicago is doing to switch customers to digital:

http://www.chicagotribune.com/business/chi-0704050706apr06,0,2945392.story?coll=chi-business-hed

hopefully sooner rather then later. We have had FULL ADS for awhile now. Last fall I wanted to get a box for my second set,but would only take a DCT 700. The office said i could have a 2000 but I wasn't interested in the bulky box for a small 13".

Does anyone know what uncrypted QAM channels are available in or around the Peabody, MA area?

I'd like to get a QAM tuner, but I don't want to spend money without knowing.

I talked to a Comcast guy, but he said that I'd have to try it and find out on my own since it's unsupported.

Has any one tried it?

Does anyone know what uncrypted QAM channels are available in or around the Peabody, MA area?

I'd like to get a QAM tuner, but I don't want to spend money without knowing.

I talked to a Comcast guy, but he said that I'd have to try it and find out on my own since it's unsupported.

Has any one tried it?

CBS-HD
ABC-HD
NBC-HD
FOX-HD
PBS-HD

And a bunch of non HD channels that are digital

CBS-HD
ABC-HD
NBC-HD
FOX-HD
PBS-HD

And a bunch of non HD channels that are digital
Time consuming but you can figure this out using your digital settop box. First off, anything that is a local channel should be unencrypted. As for anything other than the Basic tier you'd tune the settop to the channel in question. To find out if it is encrypted/unencrypted, turn off the box and within 2 seconds press select/ok. This brings up the diagnostics screen. Using the cursor arrows on your remote or the front of the box, arrow down to current channel status or channel status and then arrow right. On the resultant screen look for the acronym "clr" or "unk." If the channel is unencrypted it will display either of these two acronyms. If the channel is encrypted it should indicate "enc." It'll take a little while to do all of them but that's how you can figure it out. Make sure your tv is plugged into an outlet which is always on.

I only have basic analog cable. I don't have a digital box. I was going to buy a QAM receiver and use that to get the local digital channels. Can I do this?

I only have basic analog cable. I don't have a digital box. I was going to buy a QAM receiver and use that to get the local digital channels. Can I do this?

Yes you will get all of the local channels, I forgot to mention you will get Channels 38-HD and 56-HD also

Actually, my Samsung DLP set can pick up lots of QAM channels here in Natick, but it could be because they still run on the old HRC system. It can even pick up some of the analog's counterpart doubled on digital QAM as well. None of the pay channels mind you, but stuff like ASN, New England News, etc.

I only have basic analog cable. I don't have a digital box. I was going to buy a QAM receiver and use that to get the local digital channels. Can I do this?
If you're going to buy a tuner for your PC you could go two ways, which are both fair in price.
1)AutumnWave OnAir GT HDTV (http://www.autumnwave.us/product_p/hdtv-gt.htm)
2)KWORLD ATSC 115 PCI Interface PlusTV HD PCI-115 TV Tuner (http://www.newegg.com/Product/Product.aspx?Item=N82E16815260005)
Of course there are other devices out there but these two seem to be very reasonable in price and provide both Over the Air DTV and QAM DTV reception capabilities, which covers both ATSC TV delivery standards. They both handle NTSC in addition to ATSC so analog reception isn't an issue. Both allow recording and time shifting so that's a plus too. I have used the AutumnWave and it is a very impressive device. As for the KWorld, haven't gotten one yet. The KWorld with a price tag of less than $80 is really impressive. The AutumnWave provides portability but does require USB2.0 and has a price tag of $179.

Yes you will get all of the local channels, I forgot to mention you will get Channels 38-HD and 56-HD also

Also WMUR, The ABC affiliate in NH.

Local Sports fans took it on the chin last night. We had Five teams playing ( Red Sox, Bruins, Celtics, BC & The Revolution ) and besides only one being in HD ( Sox ) they all lost. Ouch! Especially that BC game, that will hurt for awhile.

Does anyone know what uncrypted QAM channels are available in or around the Peabody, MA area?In Burlington, this is what we currently get:

(image updated -- see below)

We used to get On Demand channels unencrypted, too, but they're all encrypted now.

Are those "DT" channels the HD channels?

Here is how I would map digital channels in QAM


Note: This does NOT represent the QAM lineup in Lawrence. This is just how I would have it!
2-1 WGBH -SD
2-2 WGBH HD (802)
4-1 WBZ-DT
5-1 WCVB-DT
6-1 NECN
7-1 WHDH-DT
7-2 NBC Weather plus
8-1 CN8
8-2 Local access
8-3 Ed access
8-4 Gov access
8-5 other access
9-1 WMUR-DT
11-1 WENH
25-1 WFXT-DT
27-1 WUNI
38-1 WSBK-DT
44-1 WGBX
44-2 GBX World
44-3 GBX kids
44-4 Create
46-1 Shop NBC
46-2 QVC
48-1 Daystar
50-1 My TV
56-1 WLVI-DT
56-2 The Tube
60-1 Telemundo
62-1 WMFP
62-2 HSN
66-1 Telefutura
68-1 Ion

84-1 WBX-SD
84-2 WCVB-SD
84-3 WHDH-SD
84-4 WMUR-SD
84-5 WFXT-SD
84-6 WSBK-SD
84-7 WLVI-SD


All other channels would be encrypted,

The 82-x channels are no longer available to me. I'm doing a new scan now.

Okay, I updated the image with the results of this morning's scan:

http://brianandrobbie.com/ComcastQAMMappingBurlingtonMA.JPG

You may have to clear your cache to see it, because it is in the same file as before. This time, there are 24 channels.

No 9-1 WMUR-DT in Peabody

A more detailed look at Comcast's Chicago experiment (apparently they will be keeping the basic analog tier alive for the box-less):

http://multichannel.com/article/CA6432144.html

Does anyone know if this strategy is being considered for this area?

Anyone experiencing this problem?

Lately the DVR has been losing it's guide. Also when the program I am watching live is paused it says "To Be Announced" even though the guide is correct. This is EXTREMELY irritating to say the least, as I cannot pause and then record the show from the beginning if I start watching something late.

A more detailed look at Comcast's Chicago experiment (apparently they will be keeping the basic analog tier alive for the box-less):

http://multichannel.com/article/CA6432144.html

Does anyone know if this strategy is being considered for this area?

I know this will be done soon in New Hampshire and I would assume that Boston, MA at the least would also be included. That isn't to say that say Manchester, NH gets done first and after that Boston, MA gets upgraded and so on. I do know that nearly all of New Hampshire will be upgraded with the bigger cities and towns first. My bet is this order below.

Boston, MA first.
Nashua, NH and surrounding area's next.
Once Derry is reached they will move into Manchester, NH. At that point it will move down the seacoast and Concord at the sametime. They tend to stick to a specific order and work their way down the path. That isn't to say that many cities and towns aren't done at the sametime as its hard to say. The only timeframe I've been given is sometime this year all of New Hampshire "will" be upgraded.

It looks like an HBO free preview is happening this weekend in addition to the MLB Extra Innings showcase.

I found out about it today when I got home. Not much good when today is the last day for the free preview.

I found out about it today when I got home. Not much good when today is the last day for the free preview.

Their willful decision not to allocate additional bandwidth for GAME 11 - GAME 14 for MLBEI is another example of their behind the curve mentality. The HBO message just stacks the deck...

Anyone else find it humorous that NBALP (606-609) is open? Do they truly think that GAME 11 - GAME 14 is on this tier?

Will Comcast do here like they are in Chicago? The extra 220 Mhz of spectrum will be plenty of room for the new HD channels coming in late 2007 and 2008.

Will Comcast do here like they are in Chicago? The extra 220 Mhz of spectrum will be plenty of room for the new HD channels coming in late 2007 and 2008.

See my last post above....post #329. ;)

I know this will be done soon in New Hampshire and I would assume that Boston, MA at the least would also be included. That isn't to say that say Manchester, NH gets done first and after that Boston, MA gets upgraded and so on. I do know that nearly all of New Hampshire will be upgraded with the bigger cities and towns first. My bet is this order below.

Boston, MA first.
Nashua, NH and surrounding area's next.
Once Derry is reached they will move into Manchester, NH. At that point it will move down the seacoast and Concord at the sametime. They tend to stick to a specific order and work their way down the path. That isn't to say that many cities and towns aren't done at the sametime as its hard to say. The only timeframe I've been given is sometime this year all of New Hampshire "will" be upgraded.

I believe that the time they do this could be a good time to do some channel remapping. Broadcast stations to their actual channel numbers (with HD locals down in the 2 channel area) Everything under 100 would be limited basic

101-120 could be the Family tier and 121-199 would be extended basic.

I try to encourage folks with just extended basic to get boxes and those with just limited basic to get Digital classic :)

See my last post above....post #329. ;)

try 392! :D

nice 5.1 on tonights sox game :)

Can somebody explain why no TVs have cable cards anymore???

try 392! :D

Ooops....puts hands over eyes! :D :eek:

Anyone have MLB package on Comcast I have a 50" samsung dlp and the picture quality of the MLB package is horrible....

Speaking of freebies like free HBO shows, how does one find out about them?

Can somebody explain why [few] TVs have cable cards anymore???Because most people don't need them, and instead use STBs.

Until the next generation of two-way cable cards are implemented, they have severe limitations

Until the next generation of two-way cable cards are implemented, they have severe limitations

Yes but one of the advantages if you don't want On-Demand or a recorder is you can mount your plasma on the wall and have no boxes to run cables too which gives it a better look and the PQ is the best you can get IMHO.

Until the next generation of two-way cable cards are implemented, they have severe limitations

Two-way or MCards will be in your home come july when host boxes start getting deployed.

Yes but one of the advantages if you don't want On-Demand or a recorder is you can mount your plasma on the wall and have no boxes to run cables too which gives it a better look and the PQ is the best you can get IMHO.In order for them to be offered, though, it has to be better-off for everyone involved: The service provider, the electronics equipment manufacturer, and the customer.

Anyone have MLB package on Comcast I have a 50" samsung dlp and the picture quality of the MLB package is horrible....

Yeah, it sucks. Even on a 42" plasma. But I get it anyway. I can watch it in the bedroom on a normal tube tv and it looks fine, and you can kind of get used to it on the nice tv.

Is it worth $160? Who knows. But the cable bill is already outrageous, so what the hell. And I like being able to watch all the Yankee games, among others.

And I am happy at the effort they've made to squeeze and many games as possible onto the 10 channels we do get, even though they were originally scheduled to be on game11-14.

Is it just me or does NESN's HD coverage of the Sox leave a lot to be desired? It handles speed sequences very poorly, and everytime they go into or come out of a replay (when that graphic flies across the screen) there is a pick up delay, with bad pixellation.

I don't notice this on any other channel. And the 5.1 they added this year is pretty good, but inconsistent. And I've heard some crackling too.

Considering how much effort they put into promoting their HD coverage, you'd think it would be a little better. I thknk they've surpassed ESPN in terms of plastering 'HD' in as many places as possible, even on their SD broadcasts.

I just got NESN about 6 weeks ago and at 1st was pretty happy but now I see all the things you are seeing and hearing as well. I know that D* has had problems with Boston local HD channels and was told they are working on it.

Are you watching on D*

no, Comcast. They had some issues last year too, but it seems to have gotten worse instead of better.

no, Comcast. They had some issues last year too, but it seems to have gotten worse instead of better.

I guess it is a NESN problem then if we are both seeing and hearing it

Can somebody explain why no TVs have cable cards anymore???

There are a bunch of reasons CableCards haven't been successful:

1) No channel guide and no on-demand. Cable companies like the income stream from on-demand, so they want their customers to use STBs.

2) CableCards are flaky. Sometimes the install is very easy, but sometimes it's horrendous. You'd think you could just insert the card into your TV and it would work; how hard could that be? But when we had ours installed, it took about an hour for the tech to get it to work. Comcast thinks a CableCard install is a 20-minute job and pays their techs accordingly, so he was not a big fan of CableCards.

3) CableLabs has excessively harsh restrictions on CableCard implementations. This makes it expensive to engineer a compliant CableCard implementation, and also restricts its use in things like Media PCs and DVRs. If it were a more open system with less restrictive DRM, I could see a big market for CableCard DVRs; as of now, we're stuck with an $800 Tivo as our only choice.

4) I think the big picture here is that cable companies want to retain full control of their content. When generic set-top boxes come into the picture, they lose that control.

I noticed the same thing recently! I didn't notice it as much on the road trip but the two home games have been bad. Baseball on espn in HD doesn't do this.

When Dice-K was warming up in front of the clubhouse, when they had a closeup shot there was bad pixelation following his arm. Kind of annoying, hope they fix it soon!

Threads merged.

Is it just me or does NESN's HD coverage of the Sox leave a lot to be desired? It handles speed sequences very poorly, and everytime they go into or come out of a replay (when that graphic flies across the screen) there is a pick up delay, with bad pixellation.

I don't notice this on any other channel. And the 5.1 they added this year is pretty good, but inconsistent. And I've heard some crackling too.

Considering how much effort they put into promoting their HD coverage, you'd think it would be a little better. I thknk they've surpassed ESPN in terms of plastering 'HD' in as many places as possible, even on their SD broadcasts.

I haven't seen the pixelation but I do have the crackling problem on that channel and a number of others thought it was something with my electric...

The picture is pretty bad but worth it I need my Yanks when I am stuck in beantown. Yes network in HD may drive me back to NY... Was gonna switch to D* but I was concerned about the picture quality...

Can somebody explain why no TVs have cable cards anymore???You want one? I'll sell you mine.;)

About the NESN Red Sox broadcasts:

There are still problems with pixelation, yes, however at least they seem to have removed the SD cameras from the mix. Each year there have been improvements, I guess we expect more from NESN because the Red Sox are such a cash cow.

Those of you having issues with pixelation:

Do you have a DLP TV, or Plasma?

I've found the pixelation is much worse on '04-'05 DLP TV's that a lot of us have. Newer plasma's tend to handle it much better. And of course you won't notice it as much the further you are away from your TV.

Is something going on with the audio at comcast. I have noticed lately that occassionally the audio will sound like it is in a barrel sort of hollow sounding. This will correct itself after a while. It may only be on the HD channels but I am not sure. I guess it could be my pre-processor or it could be the signal.

I've only noticed it on specific channels, and only specific times. I attribute it to errors at the source.

Sorry, sound problem mentioned here

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=10288296&&#post10288296

seems to have been a problem with the show/network.

It looks like PBS-HD (WGBH-HD, Channel 2.2, whatever you want to call it) is running a program called HD Toolkit this coming Sat. night/Sun. morning (April 21/22). It's listed as 37 minutes long, so it runs from 3:30-4:07AM. I haven't seen it listed before, and I know it's not being shown the following weekend.

Presumably intended to record on your DVR and use to calibrate your HD set. InHD still runs its Tune Up program every Sunday at 7:00AM, but it's only about 13 minutes long, so this might be more thorough.

It looks like PBS-HD (WGBH-HD, Channel 2.2, whatever you want to call it) is running a program called HD Toolkit this coming Sat. night/Sun. morning (April 21/22). It's listed as 37 minutes long, so it runs from 4:00-4:37AM. I haven't seen it listed before, and I know it's not being shown the following weekend.

Presumably intended to record on your DVR and use to calibrate your HD set. InHD still runs its Tune Up program every Sunday at 7:00AM, but it's only about 13 minutes long, so this might be more thorough.

DVR set to record :>

edit : never mind.

At last the HDMI connection works with my Panny Plasma. For those who argue that HDMI pic quality is no better than component, don't forget the sound from the Red Sox game is now in digital and we noticed an immediate improvement!

You don't need HDMI to get digital sound. Coax or optical from the box will do, too.

At last the HDMI connection works with my Panny Plasma. For those who argue that HDMI pic quality is no better than component, don't forget the sound from the Red Sox game is now in digital and we noticed an immediate improvement!

Still 16.20 in Lawrence. I hope 35 fixes those bugs.

Still 16.20 here as well.

Well, an improvement in audio through the tv speakers, when we are watching 'casually'.

16.35

Also, I forced a software update, apparently, the update is out there for manual download, but has not yet been pushed out generally. I had one problem, last night it was acting only as a tuner (single) box, dvr, guide and all other functions were disabled. I called Comcast, they sent an authorization signal to it, but to no avail.

This morning, all was OK (and HDMI was still working!).

16.35 came down today :)

16.20 still here.

anyone not receiving channel 810 (nbc)- the last couple of nights I receive nothing -just the message telling me that it will take one moment- but of course it never appears.
thetman

anyone not receiving channel 810 (nbc)- the last couple of nights I receive nothing -just the message telling me that it will take one moment- but of course it never appears.
thetman

806 and 810 has been out here in for several days; called Comcast who said it is a third party issue (I don't know how), said they have a ticket open.

Consti, go read the Providence, RI thread. Channel 6 and 10 share the same antenna for their digital transmitters. They are both down.

Mallego

It looks like PBS-HD (WGBH-HD, Channel 2.2, whatever you want to call it) is running a program called HD Toolkit this coming Sat. night/Sun. morning (April 21/22). It's listed as 37 minutes long, so it runs from 3:30-4:07AM. I haven't seen it listed before, and I know it's not being shown the following weekend.

Presumably intended to record on your DVR and use to calibrate your HD set. InHD still runs its Tune Up program every Sunday at 7:00AM, but it's only about 13 minutes long, so this might be more thorough.

Don't get your hopes up. I recorded that show once a couple weeks ago. It is just all the PBS promos in high def one after another. No calibration screens or anything. It must be for the other PBS HD stations to pick up and rebroadcast since GBH does create a decent portion of PBS' content nationwide or so it seems.

Consti, go read the Providence, RI thread. Channel 6 and 10 share the same antenna for their digital transmitters. They are both down.

thanks for the info-hopefully it won't be down for too long
thetman

Do you think Comcast might gives us WHDH-DT in Bristol County ,if WJAR-DT is going to need a long time to repair its antenna? We still have WCVB-DT here, so not missing ABC when WLNE-DT went down. No NBC HD now for almost a week.
Also, any word when A&E-HD will be added here?

No NBC HD now for almost a week.
I know I am a litle nervous- isn't heroes starting new episodes this week? no Heroes- no Office, kinda sucks. hopefully soon it will be back
thetman

I am in central MA (01886). I lost all HD channels I used to get using the QAM tuner through Comcast. All hd channels (2-1, 4-1 etc) show no signals. Did a reset of my Olevia 237T. It finally picked up a few digital channels all in 700 range, all with mosaics. It can no longer find any HD channels. I called comcast, they claimed that no change was made over the weekend. So what is the problem? Comcast, or my Qam tuner? Thanks

I am in central MA (01886). I lost all HD channels I used to get using the QAM tuner through Comcast. All hd channels (2-1, 4-1 etc) show no signals. Did a reset of my Olevia 237T. It finally picked up a few digital channels all in 700 range, all with mosaics. It can no longer find any HD channels. I called comcast, they claimed that no change was made over the weekend. So what is the problem? Comcast, or my Qam tuner? Thanks
If the cable company moved the programs to a different freq on the cable, lets say from 600MHz to above 700MHz, then your mosaic (tiling) could be a result of decreased signal strength on the high end of the cable spectrum. I'd temp connect the tv as close to the service entrance (ground block on the side of the house) as I could and do another rescan. If you receive the programs there without tiling then there'd be some signal loss in your house which is causing the tiling at the location where the set typically resides. If this turns out to be the case then you'd want to look for unnecessary splitters and or poorly made fittings and correct those issues. A tarnished center conductor in the cable causes signal loss in addition to poor quality fittings and splitters. Tarnish from water damage usually occurs outside the house where water can get into the cable wire. If this is the case then you'd see a black center conductor when you disconnect the fitting from the ground block at the side of the house (very common). Tarnish can be temp remedied by scraping off the tarnish, but scraping the tarnish off can also cause high end freqs to decrease in strength. If you find tarnish you should call for a service call and then when the tech arrives point out the water damage. Water damage is due to faulty cable installation and you should not be charged for the service call. You can ensure that you are not charged for a service call by subscribing to Service Plus or Service Protection Plan for short change and when the issue is corrected you can cancel the plan.

I read it in the Verizon Boston thread that FIOS TV just added Food HD and HGTV HD. Any news on when or if Comcast is going to do the same here? Are they available in other Comcast area?

called comcast last night-(no Heroes in HD :mad: ) I was told that they are not offering 806 and 810 and are coming up with something else to replace those channels. I asked her why would you drop NBC? she didn't know- I mentioed about an antenna issue as was previously posted-again she said thatas not the case-and that comcast is just dropping those channels. thanks for heads up comcast. I am south of boston
thetman

Probably a real stupid question (I have had Comcast HD in Manchester, NH for about 2 months now), but I have always wondered this:

Is there a reason why Comcast doesn't remap a channel (example: 849 for ESPN and 809 for WMUR) so when you type in 49 (ESPN's SD channel) or 12 (WMUR's SD channel), you get the high def channel instead?

The people I live with hate the fact that to use high definition channels, they basically have to re-learn all of the channel numbers. Not to mention, the duplicate channels in the guide really confuse them.

It is too bad they haven't come up with an easy interface that does the little things like that. It is amazing how complex they make things when they could be much simpler.

Is there a reason why Comcast doesn't remap a channel (example: 849 for ESPN and 809 for WMUR) so when you type in 49 (ESPN's SD channel) or 12 (WMUR's SD channel), you get the high def channel instead?


I can't say that this is the reason such a mapping isn't done, and it doesn't happen often, but there are cases where completely different programming is shown on the analog and digital broadcasts. A recent example was seen when WBZ-DT aired coverage of the Masters Tournament on Thursday and Friday evenings while WBZ had the usual weeknight news lineup.

Probably a real stupid question (I have had Comcast HD in Manchester, NH for about 2 months now), but I have always wondered this:

Is there a reason why Comcast doesn't remap a channel (example: 849 for ESPN and 809 for WMUR) so when you type in 49 (ESPN's SD channel) or 12 (WMUR's SD channel), you get the high def channel instead?

The people I live with hate the fact that to use high definition channels, they basically have to re-learn all of the channel numbers. Not to mention, the duplicate channels in the guide really confuse them.

It is too bad they haven't come up with an easy interface that does the little things like that. It is amazing how complex they make things when they could be much simpler.

They can't do selective remapping :( I still wonder WHY in MANCHESTER thye have to have WMUR on channel 12! Put it on 9 where it belongs!

The channel 12 thing bothers me too.

I like the separate SD and HD channel numbers.

A lot of those HD channels are sending full bandwidth (19.2Mbps) even on upsampled SD. This makes a huge difference in disk space requirements on my Series 3 TiVo or recording via EyeTV-500.

So, I can record "reality" shows in SD - which is stupid, 'cause I'd most like to see those exotic locales in HD, but they only tape them in SD - and only record those shows that I know are going to be HD in full bandwidth HD.

any word on WJAR and WLNE -DT antenna problem? Will COmcast get WHDH-DT back on in Bristol County so we can get NBC-HD........
Think in NH WMUR-TV on cable ch. 12 is an old anolog thing. If Ch.9 was on Ch.9 near the transmitter in NH , you would get a mix of the OTA and cable signal mixing toghter, Comcrap moving it to 12 , the 2 siganls of MUR wont mix.

any word on WJAR and WLNE -DT antenna problem? Will COmcast get WHDH-DT back on in Bristol County so we can get NBC-HD........
Think in NH WMUR-TV on cable ch. 12 is an old anolog thing. If Ch.9 was on Ch.9 near the transmitter in NH , you would get a mix of the OTA and cable signal mixing toghter, Comcrap moving it to 12 , the 2 siganls of MUR wont mix.

in many cites they STILL air VHF channels on the same channel number. Besides they could do it on the digital anyway. :)

any word on WJAR and WLNE -DT antenna problem? Will COmcast get WHDH-DT back on in Bristol County so we can get NBC-HD........


Comcast rep said they hope to get channels 806 and 810 back on the 30th April !?!?!?!? I went online and tried comcast chat. Oh and they won't give any refunds.

Old Man, as I said in a previous post, got to the Providence, RI thread. The WJAR engineer is giving updates on the problem. Comcast will be up when the tower problem is fixed.

Nuff said, Mallego

Old Man, as I said in a previous post, got to the Providence, RI thread. The WJAR engineer is giving updates on the problem. Comcast will be up when the tower problem is fixed.

Nuff said, Mallego

Thanks for the info but I don't read the Providence RI thread as I am not in that area.

I was just answering mgpt6 question about NBC-HD and got COMCAST's "official" answer which was 30th April.

Probably a real stupid question (I have had Comcast HD in Manchester, NH for about 2 months now), but I have always wondered this:

Is there a reason why Comcast doesn't remap a channel (example: 849 for ESPN and 809 for WMUR) so when you type in 49 (ESPN's SD channel) or 12 (WMUR's SD channel), you get the high def channel instead?

The people I live with hate the fact that to use high definition channels, they basically have to re-learn all of the channel numbers. Not to mention, the duplicate channels in the guide really confuse them.


Are you serious? In Derry channel 9 is SD and 809 is the HD. 49 and 849 why is it so hard? 51 and 851 for NESN.

My folks got a call from some outfit called Evergreen, offering to upgrade his Comcast service to digital (they're seniors on analog). I'm leery of anybody calling me to sell me something.... Anybody ever heard of this company and their offer?

My folks got a call from some outfit called Evergreen, offering to upgrade his Comcast service to digital (they're seniors on analog). I'm leery of anybody calling me to sell me something.... Anybody ever heard of this company and their offer?

Evergreen is a 3rd party telesales company that Comcast has hired to try to upgrade customers who have analog to digital. It is legit. The only reason why they would have an analog cable box is if the TV is not cable ready. Other then that, they are spending an extra $4 for a red clock.

Comcast rep said they hope to get channels 806 and 810 back on the 30th April !?!?!?!? I went online and tried comcast chat. Oh and they won't give any refunds.

The problem is with the channel station itself. Anyone who has an OTA set would also be missing the channels. I would recommend calling the station for an update.

Evergreen is a 3rd party telesales company that Comcast has hired to try to upgrade customers who have analog to digital. It is legit. The only reason why they would have an analog cable box is if the TV is not cable ready. Other then that, they are spending an extra $4 for a red clock.


Thanks therob.... My dad got a new digital TV a couple of months ago, so he's starting to think about upgrading their service and getting a digital box. I just didn't want to see him get fleeced.

Hey everyone,

Every morning this week while I'm trying to eat my bagel and flipping between Sportscenter on 849 and Coach on 35 my box has just completely frozen, does nothing for a minute, than shuts itself off and reboots. The menu and guide and everything else needs to be reloaded each time.

Any ideas what's going on? Thanks in advance...

Just wanted to let you know that I've been told that A&E HD, Food Network HD and HGTV HD will be added soon within the Boston area along with New Hampshire. Some towns and cities will get them sooner than others but I'm hearing all area's will see them within the next 30-45 days. This news along with those letters going out to past Adelphia (now Comcast) within MA makes me feel really good about this.

Oooh, Food Network HD....that is going to be deadly.

Just wanted to let you know that I've been told that A&E HD, Food Network HD and HGTV HD will be added soon within the Boston area along with New Hampshire. Some towns and cities will get them sooner than others but I'm hearing all area's will see them within the next 30-45 days. This news along with those letters going out to past Adelphia (now Comcast) within MA makes me feel really good about this.

837 for AnE,832 for HGTV and perhaps 867 for Food
Any serious updates on the H channels,or do pigs have to fly?

837 for AnE,832 for HGTV and perhaps 867 for Food
Any serious updates on the H channels,or do pigs have to fly?

At one time the talks for HDNet going into the Sports and Entertainment were going very well but it seems those talks have long ago stopped. I'm not sure now what the real problem is except price. Or maybe somebody high up at Comcast is ticked off with Marc right now but hey I've given up trying to figure this out.

So I'd say that pigs might need to start flying before Comcast customers start seeing HDNet. :(

On 806 and 810 Comcast has a test pattern and message that WLNE and WJAR are down due to thier problems and to tune to 6 or 10 to watch the SD version. Lucky we still have CVB-DT for ABC ,but no NBC. Did JAR force Comcast to drop WHDH-DT from Bristol County or was it Comcrap's decision

Providence post has JAR and LNE back on at half power wont be able to check Comcast until later on tonight

WJAR-DT and WLNE-DT are back on Comcast.

I just signed up for comcast with a cablecard. I picked the digital premier package. the channel lineup on comcast.com leaves much to be desired, it just seems very innaccurate. is there a complete list out there somewhere of every channel I will get? I am most curious about GolTV and Fox Soccer Channel, as well as HD channels. Anyone know where I can find some accurate information?

I just signed up for comcast with a cablecard. I picked the digital premier package. the channel lineup on comcast.com leaves much to be desired, it just seems very innaccurate. is there a complete list out there somewhere of every channel I will get? I am most curious about GolTV and Fox Soccer Channel, as well as HD channels. Anyone know where I can find some accurate information?

Those two are part of sports and Entertainment tier which with your package will run an extra $4.

FSC is on 256
GolTV is on 714.

Try zap2it.com

Those two are part of sports and Entertainment tier which with your package will run an extra $4.

FSC is on 256
GolTV is on 714.

Try zap2it.com
do you know if goltv is in english?

do you know if goltv is in english?

Most of it is.
I had that package for awhile in anticipation of HDNEt being included.

Most of it is.
I had that package for awhile in anticipation of HDNEt being included.
excellent. the channel was all spanish in denver. on directv and dish, and most cable outlets it is carried in both languages, but in denver, only in spanish :(

It's english on Dish ch.407, they have both languages 85? for spanish.

Hi
Does anyone know what channel the HD Pay Per View boxing is going to be on Saturday night ? Southeastern MA.

Thanks

With new FCC rules for after 2/19/2009, will Comcast convert local broadcast siganls to analog for those who dont want a box; or have everythng in digital and require everyone to have set top boxes ?
Also , any word on A&E- HD or any other new HD channels coming to Comcast -Boston?

The current digital boxes put out analog-compatible composite and S-video signals. Beyond that, Comcast had earlier made statements indicating that they'd continue to offer at least 30 in-the-clear NTSC channels for years to come, but more recent indications are that that may not be the case.

With new FCC rules for after 2/19/2009, will Comcast convert local broadcast siganls to analog for those who dont want a box; or have everythng in digital and require everyone to have set top boxes ?
Also , any word on A&E- HD or any other new HD channels coming to Comcast -Boston?
One must consider the FCC Order (http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DOC-257519A1.pdf) effective 7/1/2007 which bans the deployment of settops with integrated security (non-CableCard) by MSO's. This Order basically allows for the existence of a competitive market for cable settop manufacture. This in turn means that you should be able to purchase settops from Newegg, Circuit City, Best Buy, Staples, Sears etc. With this move an MSO will provide a CableCard to you for use in your consumer settop. Additionally, I would assume that ther'll be a lot of newly created rules and regulations written by cable MSO's. Rules which would impose the mandatory use of a settop box at all cable outlets in a home. If this becomes the reality we could then anticipate the slow dropoff of analog signals at each programs contract end with MSO.

We should see a lot of different technologies become available after the 7/1/2007 date, including a rise in PC tuner cards which support CableCard.

The 7/1/2007 date has nothing to do with the customer's ability to purchase STBs commercially. MSOs have been required to provide CableCards for quite a while already. Nothing about that changes on 7/1/2007 in a legal sense, nor will it necessarily reverse the trend in the last year or two whereby support for CableCard in commercial products has generally been reduced, not increased. There is a hope -- but nothing more than a hope -- that the 7/1/2007 date will simply make the MSOs more talented at supporting CableCard. Nothing more.

Also , any word on A&E- HD or any other new HD channels coming to Comcast -Boston?

See post #460.

The 7/1/2007 date has nothing to do with the customer's ability to purchase STBs commercially. MSOs have been required to provide CableCards for quite a while already. Nothing about that changes on 7/1/2007 in a legal sense, nor will it necessarily reverse the trend in the last year or two whereby support for CableCard in commercial products has generally been reduced, not increased. There is a hope -- but nothing more than a hope -- that the 7/1/2007 date will simply make the MSOs more talented at supporting CableCard. Nothing more.
Bicker1 you are wrong.

Let me begin by stating that my understanding of the number of device types (or models) which support CableCard technology or are CableCard compatible is less than 100. These devices, up until Tivo deployed the Model TCD648250B in late 2006 with a price tag listed at $799, consisted of television sets (which were more expensive) and possibly some other high end devices that I am not familiar with?? Nonetheless, 7/1/2007 directly affects the Cable MSO industry whereas enabling consumers to have a choice in the way they wish to deal with settop box rental. The consumer has the option of renting a low cost settop box from the MSO or purchase their own from the back wall behind the counter of Eckards, Walgreens or CVS to use with the cable operators service. What the heck, if you're still paying your cable bill at the local apothecary you might as well pick up an extra new fangled Gemini settop for the garage or the basement TV's.

With this FCC Order cable operators, in a general sense, benefit from the order as they can more aggressively migrate their terms and agreements to indicate that a digital setop box is required to use any level of their service. This directly affects the longevity of the analog tier, so for those wondering how long it will take an MSO built on HFC to add more digital channels (which is usually peoples gripe), the wait shortens significantly after 7/1/2007. The statement/response I made previously more closely answers the question posed by mgpt6 about analog cable ready tier and clarifies the seemingly ill informed crap you spewed out after being woken up by your RSS reader yesterday morning.

Your statement that 7/1/2007 does not affect the consumers ability to purchase STB's commercially shows how ignorant you are IMO, or at least has nothing to do with the question previously posed. The previous question posted by mgpt6 asks "will Comcast convert local broadcast signals to analog for those who don't want a box; or have everything in digital and require everyone to have set top boxes" and is answered to a certain extent in my response, which is to inform that 7/1/2007 will address the solution to how we will be able to receive cable signals going forward. Your response of The current digital boxes put out analog-compatible composite and S-video signals. Beyond that, Comcast had earlier made statements indicating that they'd continue to offer at least 30 in-the-clear NTSC channels for years to come, but more recent indications are that that may not be the case. to mgpt6 is contextually irrelevant, serves to inform nothing and only wastes the hard drive space of our blessed forum owners computer systems.


Providing this type of information helps people understand what some of their options are (or will be) and can possibly serve to help prepare consumers to know how to make an informed decision about what they will purchase and when, and also what is to come. The information you are providing is bogus and you should not mis-state information in your responses or at least do a little research before sending someone down the wrong road of thinking (unless you thrive on knowing that you've fed some asking person the biggest line of crap they'd heard all day). Stick to the point of the topic and what has related to it for questions.

If you'd like to read more about the 7/1/2007 date and the way it affects consumers, refer to some of these links: Some FCC mumbo jumbo that won't change anything in the eyes of bicker1 , (http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DOC-257519A1.pdf) Electronic Frontier Foundation (https://secure.eff.org/site/Advocacy?JServSessionIdr008=v78q4eqgu4.app2a&cmd=display&page=UserAction&id=261) , ATI TV Wonder™ Digital Cable Tuner (http://www.amd.com/us-en/Corporate/VirtualPressRoom/0,,51_104_543~115233,00.html) , Niveus Digital Cable Receiver (http://www.niveusmedia.com/products/dcr.htm)

I suspect we'll see an explosion of cablecard usage and devices after 7/1/2007, but that's just my informed opinion.

BTW, bicker1, did you get your cable education from 'Cable in the Classroom' or did you actually read trade magazine articles part of the way through? Sorry, I just can't help it, I feel my contest hormones brewing.

Bicker1 you are wrong. I wish I were, but I'm not. Everything I said is accurate. I understand that you, like I, wish it weren't true, but that's just something we'll both have to accept.

Let me begin by stating that my understanding of the number of device types (or models) which support CableCard technology or are CableCard compatible is less than 100.In 2005, Samsung had most of its DLP lines supporting CableCard. Then, in 2006, they removed support for CableCard from all but the top-most model line. Many other CE manufacturers did something similar. CE manufacturers pulled away from CableCard. Sorry, but that's what happened.

Nonetheless, 7/1/2007 directly affects the Cable MSO industry whereas enabling consumers to have a choice in the way they wish to deal with settop box rental.Incorrect. The 7/1/2007 date affects only which physical boxes the MSOs can offer for rental. Again, I'm sorry you're mistaken, but you are, and there's nothing I can do to make what you're saying any less mistaken.

The consumer has the option of renting a low cost settop box from the MSO or purchase their own from the back wall behind the counter of Eckards, Walgreens or CVS to use with the cable operators service.The laws supporting that have been in place for years. 7/1/2007 has no direct effect on that. Again, the only tangential impact is that, since starting on that date, MSOs will generally start having their own CableCard-enabled equipment in service, the assumption is that they might get a little more talented at getting CableCards to work. That's it. The only effect will be that the tech installing CableCards in your personal CE might know a bit more about how to get over the technological challenges that CableCards represent than he does today.

With this FCC Order cable operators, in a general sense, benefit from the order as they can more aggressively migrate their terms and agreements to indicate that a digital setop box is required to use any level of their service.You'll have to explain what you're saying here. I think you've typed the wrong words, but I'll wait to read your explanation before coming to that conclusion.

This directly affects the longevity of the analog tier, so for those wondering how long it will take an MSO built on HFC to add more digital channels (which is usually peoples gripe), the wait shortens significantly after 7/1/2007.The 7/1/2007 date has no direct effect on that.

Your statement that 7/1/2007 does not affect the consumers ability to purchase STB's commercially shows how ignorant you are IMOYou're mistaken AND rude.

The previous question posted by mgpt6 asks "will Comcast convert local broadcast signals to analog for those who don't want a box; or have everything in digital and require everyone to have set top boxes" and is answered to a certain extent in my response, which is to inform that 7/1/2007 will address the solution to how we will be able to receive cable signals going forward.The 7/1/2007 date has nothing to do with that. Your answer is erroneous and ill-informed.

Providing this type of information helps people understand what some of their options are (or will be) and can possibly serve to help prepare consumers to know how to make an informed decision about what they will purchase and when, and also what is to come.No. It misleads them into thinking that something is changing on 7/1/2007 that affects what you're asserting, when the reality is the opposite. It supplants the hard-cold facts of reality with your well-intentioned assumptions, hopes and aspirations.

If you'd like to read more about the 7/1/2007 date and the way it affects consumers, refer to some of these links: Hopefully you'll read the FCC link yourself and realize that you've been snowed by the EFF into thinking that 7/1/2007 means something other than what it actually does mean.

I suspect we'll see an explosion of cablecard usage and devices after 7/1/2007, but that's just my informed opinion.My guess is that we're see a moderate up-tick, but the trend will still be considered disappointing.

Sorry, I just can't help it, I feel my contest hormones brewing.I don't really care about your personal problems.

I wish I were [wrong], but I'm not. Everything I said is accurate. I understand that you, like I, wish it weren't true, but that's just something we'll both have to accept.

Incorrect. The 7/1/2007 date affects only which physical boxes the MSOs can offer for rental. Again, I'm sorry you're mistaken, but you are, and there's nothing I can do to make what you're saying any less mistaken.

The laws supporting that have been in place for years. 7/1/2007 has no direct effect on that.
I'll leave out all the irrelevant crap you wrote and post the first statement in the FCC Order. This should suffice to shut you up or at least provide everyone else with the clarity that you are full of shite. Furthermore, this order is directed toward benefitting consumers not MSO's.


Washington, DC (http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DOC-257519A1.pdf) – In its ongoing effort to promote competition and assure the
commercial availability of cable-ready DTV equipment, the Federal Communications
Commission (FCC) today adopted a Second Report and Order in the Commercial Availability of
Navigation Devices proceeding.

I will add this, if you don't understand what the above reads you really are a moron.

Thanks to the posts above for all the good information.

I am potentially subscribing to service, but when I called they told me I had to pay an extra fee to hookup more than 1 TV ($14 install + rental fee for another box). Is that true? There's no way to simply get another wire and hook it into my second TV?

Other info: My first TV is HDTV w/ QAM, so I obviously don't need their HDTV box. My second TV is an old tv w/o HD. I can't imagine having to pay an extra fee to hook that one up.

THANKS!

Thanks to the posts above for all the good information.

I am potentially subscribing to service, but when I called they told me I had to pay an extra fee to hookup more than 1 TV ($14 install + rental fee for another box). Is that true? There's no way to simply get another wire and hook it into my second TV?

Other info: My first TV is HDTV w/ QAM, so I obviously don't need their HDTV box. My second TV is an old tv w/o HD. I can't imagine having to pay an extra fee to hook that one up.

THANKS!
Here's an old way to get what you're asking. When installing cable service as a new customer, in a home that was already wired for cable to say the living room, you can indicate to the installer that you want the primary tv in your den. The wiring in your home is yours and NO technician can remove any wires without your authorization, unless the wiring is being replaced due to signal leakage from damage. So, have the installer install your primary outlet in the den, then after the tech leaves install a splitter and connect the original leg which was already there. You can pretty much dictate where you want the cables run in your home except for wall fishing, so it shouldn't be a problem to have the tech start the run to the den at the same location as the original one. This is called a move outlet and is included in the install of new service.

I'll leave out all the irrelevant crap you wrote How convenient. :rolleyes: Despite your protestations to the contrary, The 7/1/2007 date affects only which physical boxes the MSOs can offer for rental. It has nothing to do with the silliness you asserted, "enabling consumers to have a choice in the way they wish to deal with settop box rental." :rolleyes: Again, I'm sorry you're mistaken, but you are, and there's nothing I can do to make what you're saying any less mistaken.

and post the first statement in the FCC Order.Which doesn't contradict what I've said one bit. The 7/1/2007 date has nothing to do with the customer's ability to purchase STBs commercially. MSOs have been required to provide CableCards for quite a while already. Nothing about that changes on 7/1/2007 in a legal sense, nor will it necessarily reverse the trend in the last year or two whereby support for CableCard in commercial products has generally been reduced, not increased. There is a hope -- but nothing more than a hope -- that the 7/1/2007 date will simply make the MSOs more talented at supporting CableCard. Nothing more.

Furthermore, this order is directed toward benefitting consumers not MSO's.No, it's not. It is directed towards placing a burden on MSOs. BIG difference.

I will add this, if you don't understand what the above reads you really are a moron.Glass houses, son. Glass houses.

For those interested in the truth: The laws supporting CableCard have been in place for years. 7/1/2007 has no direct effect on that. Again, the only tangential impact is that, since starting on that date, MSOs will generally start having their own CableCard-enabled equipment in service, the assumption is that they might get a little more talented at getting CableCards to work. That's it. The only effect will be that the tech installing CableCards in your personal CE might know a bit more about how to get over the technological challenges that CableCards represent than he does today.

I'll leave out all the irrelevant crap you wrote and post the first statement in the FCC Order. This should suffice to shut you up or at least provide everyone else with the clarity that you are full of shite. Furthermore, this order is directed toward benefitting consumers not MSO's.

Washington, DC (http://hraunfoss.fcc.gov/edocs_public/attachmatch/DOC-257519A1.pdf) – In its ongoing effort to promote competition and assure the
commercial availability of cable-ready DTV equipment, the Federal Communications
Commission (FCC) today adopted a Second Report and Order in the Commercial Availability of
Navigation Devices proceeding.

I will add this, if you don't understand what the above reads you really are a moron.

You're tilting at windmills thinking you're going to convince Corporal Comcast to change his ways by way of logic and reason, sorry to say. In his world, Comcast can do no wrong, listens and responds to every customer query with honor and integrity, and is being wronged at every turn by the government. Needless to say, this is not the world in which the rest of us live...

Simply add him to your Ignore List, and lead a happier life.

Seems like it's how every thing is interpreted. When some things are really not clear an individual can percieve what they think a statement means while another may think differently. I think bicker is right about cableCard being phased out and being in less CE devices but I also think Motortree is correct in his interpretation of the FCC statement and that it will try to reverse that trend and make cableCard more acceptable. Whether the date itself is suppose to reflect that is really not that clear and remains to be seen.

read in other threads on AVS that many more cable networks will be in HD. Discovery is adding 5 new HD channels, the Weather Channel,but does do me any good if they are only on Direct TV. If the majors get on Comcast, they would be adding 25 new HD channels, but will they??

Seems to me they will just be more channels filled with reruns. It's not like networks like Discovery has more HD programming to go around, they will just spread it around more thinly.

As it stands now Starz hardly shows any HD programming as it is. They used to have another HD channel called Encore-HD and practically nobody wanted to carry it. I doubt this will be much different.

I think bicker is right about cableCard being phased out and being in less CE devices Whoa! I never said anything about CableCard being phased out! I said that major CE manufactures have reduced the extent of their deployment of CableCard. I haven't seen any indication that they'll phase it out completely. They're treating it simply as a high-end option, aimed at only the rabid video enthusiast, rather than at the general public.

but I also think Motortree is correct in his interpretation of the FCC statementMotortree's problem is that he's taking statements as rules and ignoring the rules themselves. People in a political system will say whatever they want to make their ruling sound good to whatever audience they're talking to at the moment. Talk is cheap; actions are what matter.

The FCC Chairman, especially, is renowned for saying one thing and then his agency does something completely different. Whether it is because he's just being a politico, making it sound like he favors something but then when he goes behind closed doors and votes or acts he has a completely different perspective, or rather because he simply reflect a minority perspective that has little resemblance to the prevailing perspective in his agency, is something only he knows.

Look at the rules they've actually put in place, and more importantly, look at how they're being enforced, or not. That's the true depiction of reality.

Look at the rules they've actually put in place, and more importantly, look at how they're being enforced, or not. That's the true depiction of reality.
If we go back to the statement I made in response to mgpt6 you might see that my response was to him. You're clearly lacking intelligence in your responses and that is realized by the fact that Tivo makes their Series 3 unit. Wilbur and Orville didn't have a ban on making an airplane and neither does the settop box manufacture industry to make cable boxes. But we didn't see jet airplanes for decades. Eleven years for the Tivo3 pal.

I stand to inform from a well informed position. You should really eat ten or twelve avocado pits and then make public addresses on the green in Burlington. I think this way you'll get the attention you seek, which is clearly the reason why you're here.

Just some scattered thoughts as I learn from you, by your examples, of how things should be stated.

You're tilting at windmills thinking you're going to convince Corporal Comcast to change his ways by way of logic and reason, sorry to say. In his world, Comcast can do no wrong, listens and responds to every customer query with honor and integrity, and is being wronged at every turn by the government. Needless to say, this is not the world in which the rest of us live...

Simply add him to your Ignore List, and lead a happier life.
Thanks for your direction. I think bicker1, although, is like one of those 5'4" drunk guys at the bar who goes up and picks a fight with the 6'2" guy that was chatting jubilantly with friends. I'll probably find myself swatting him away or reading to him the label on the raid can before I spray it on him.

You're tilting at windmills thinking you're going to convince Corporal Comcast to change his ways by way of logic and reason, sorry to say. In his world, Comcast can do no wrong, listens and responds to every customer query with honor and integrity, and is being wronged at every turn by the government. Needless to say, this is not the world in which the rest of us live...

Simply add him to your Ignore List, and lead a happier life.

Thanks for the tip.

Perhaps someone in the know can shed some light on this:

My buddy lives in Abington, formerly Adelphia and he was switched over to Comcast last year. He retained a few Adelphia channels: HDNET and HDNET Movies...........

Well he just got the letter from Comcast that effective June 1, 2007 those are going away, however, in addition to the expected channels he is going to be getting (MHD, NGHD,WLVI and Universal) he is getting the following:

A&E HD
FOOD Network HD
HGTV (Home and Garden)
Versus/Golf HD


My question is should we expect those as well? I actually live in the Providence DMA (Bristol County, MA) but I usually get the same new additions that Boston does.

Thanks

Perhaps someone in the know can shed some light on this:

My buddy lives in Abington, formerly Adelphia and he was switched over to Comcast last year. He retained a few Adelphia channels: HDNET and HDNET Movies...........

Well he just got the letter from Comcast that effective June 1, 2007 those are going away, however, in addition to the expected channels he is going to be getting (MHD, NGHD,WLVI and Universal) he is getting the following:

A&E HD
FOOD Network HD
HGTV (Home and Garden)
Versus/Golf HD


My question is should we expect those as well? I actually live in the Providence DMA (Bristol County, MA) but I usually get the same new additions that Boston does.

Thanks

I'm in the same boat up here in NH (former Adelphia sub with both HDNets still active). My TiVo guide data changed a couple of weeks ago, indicating such channel activity was coming, but then mysteriously changed back a couple of days later. They probably jumped the gun a bit, but there's no doubt we're going to lose the HDNets and get a bunch of other ones. It's just a matter of when it happens...

Also, does anyone know the cheapest way to get every single available HD channel (including the 4 movie channels)? I could care less about non HD programming, so I am wondering, in all the confusing packages comcast offers, what the cheapest route to getting the max HD I can out of the system is....anyone??

Well, judging from my cable bill, I think I've found the most expensive way to get them all, but I'm sure that doesn't help you any.

Also, does anyone know the cheapest way to get every single available HD channel (including the 4 movie channels)? I could care less about non HD programming, so I am wondering, in all the confusing packages comcast offers, what the cheapest route to getting the max HD I can out of the system is....anyone??You call and whine about not being able to afford your setup and threaten to stop your service. They'll usually ask for a deal, then say you can't afford that and ask for something better. It usually works (at least for short-mid term anyways).

For those of us in Southern New Hampshire (I'm 90% sure Boston is included) these are the things we can expect to see.

We all will indeed see A&E HD, Food Network HD and HGTV HD. I've also been told that all six of the Discovery HD channels will be offered within 45 days of each channels launch. So the first four will be offered this summer I'm told. I've also been told that we can expect to see all the new Starz HD channels very close to their launch as well. I'm also told that they are working very hard for carriage of SciFI HD, USA Network HD and TBS HD. They aren't having problems or anything just a lack of time when you doing deals for what ten total HDTV channels. Those are the only specific HD channels I was told about but they will work to get the others but they won't overpay either. They are willing to pay a fair price which is what is being offered thus far from all the channels I listed above.

Also the delay of the Tivo software was caused because the downloading of the software was wiping the hard drive thus removing all recorded content so of course that is a big enough bug to halt things. I've been told that this issue is either fixed or very close to being fixed. Once fixed they will start about a month of testing maybe a little more. I'm told they feel very good about a Tivo release date via a soft launch (you need to call to get it as no advertising will be done for another few months) that will occur around the middle of June.

I hope this helps you all out and just hang in there.

LonghornXP, somewhat off topic but are you aware of any news with Comcast offering the Big Ten Channel? They are promoting some HD coverage so I guess it's not completely OT. :)

LonghornXP, somewhat off topic but are you aware of any news with Comcast offering the Big Ten Channel? They are promoting some HD coverage so I guess it's not completely OT. :)

Nope I haven't heard anything about this but I haven't asked either.