Has any locations switched yet and has anyone gotten any new transition letters for Feb and Mar?

Can we put this to bed now?I sure hope so.

Has any locations switched yet and has anyone gotten any new transition letters for Feb and Mar?I believe we saw earlier that the February letters have gone out. Someone reported the Beverly and Danvers were transitioning them.

I'm a bit surprised that I haven't gotten any follow-up information yet. It's already September, and we're coming close to six weeks prior to the transition, here, and still I've seen nothing since the original letter.

Can we put this to bed now? I am sure there are more important things to talk about in here then this.

Jim

He just likes to play Comcast executive on TV.

Lowell also has them in stock (picked one up today) and Westford said they've had some and should have more soon.

Can I just go to the office with my old one and tell them I want the new one ? Do I have to make up a story about my dvr not working ? Well it does have some glitches sometimes....

-Ken

Has any locations switched yet and has anyone gotten any new transition letters for Feb and Mar?


I asked L Supreme to give us the latest town rundown but he hasn't posted it yet.

He just likes to play Comcast executive on TV.Nah. A Comcast person would snow you under with flowery nothingness. You'll never get reality from a company person.

Can I just go to the office with my old one and tell them I want the new one ? Do I have to make up a story about my dvr not working ? Well it does have some glitches sometimes....

-Ken

You don't have to tell them anything special. I didn't even bring the old one in yet as my wife still has a couple of recordings to offload.

So I got this letter in the mail the other day. I figure you guys would be interested. :) The original letter said Sept. 22, so they pushed it back a week. Sorry about the image quality, I only have a digital camera and I was trying to compromise between size and readability. Click full size under the pic to the right.

http://img197.imageshack.us/img197/3267/comcast1.th.jpg (http://img197.imageshack.us/i/comcast1.jpg/) http://img297.imageshack.us/img297/8185/comcast2.th.jpg (http://img297.imageshack.us/i/comcast2.jpg/) http://img181.imageshack.us/img181/15/comcast3.th.jpg (http://img181.imageshack.us/i/comcast3.jpg/) http://img197.imageshack.us/img197/6783/comcast4.th.jpg (http://img197.imageshack.us/i/comcast4.jpg/)

I got a letter similar to that but with a date of January 5, 2010 :mad:

By the way I live in Somerville

The conversion list was starting to get buried, still waiting for L supreme to give us the February List.


Comcast Digital Conversions Boston Area: Updated list

June : Newburyport, Newbury, West Newbury, Rowley and Ipswich.

September :Ashland, Bellingham, Blackstone, Franklin, Holliston, Hopedale, Hopkinton, Marlboro, Medway, Mendon, Milford, Millis & Plainville

October : Arlington, Belmont, Burlington, Cambridge, Lynnfield, MIT, Nahant, Revere, Peabody, Reading, Saugus, Stoneham Wilmington, Winchester & Woburn

November:Attleboro, Avon, Bridgewater, Brockton, Dighton, East Bridgewater, Easton, Hanson, Holbrook, Mansfield, North Attleboro, Norton, Raynham, Rehoboth, Seekonk, Somerset, Stoughton, Swansea, Taunton, West Bridgewater & Whitman

Andover, Lawrence, Georgetown, Groveland, Haverhill, Methuen, North Andover & North Reading

January 2010:
Acton, Ashburnham, Ashby, Ayer, Baldwinville, Bedford, Bolton, Boxborough, Carlisle, Clinton, Concord, Devens (Ayer) East Templeton, Edgewater Hills, Edgewater Terrance, Fitchburg, Framingham, Gardner, Hanscomb Airforce Base, Hudson, Lancaster, Leominster, Lexington, Lincoln, Littleton, Lunenburg, Maynard, Otter River, Phillipston, Shirley, Southboro, Sterling, Stowe, Sudbury, Templeton, Townsend, West Templeton, Westford, Westminster & Winchendon MA


Chelsea, Everett, Lynn, Malden, Medford, Melrose, Salem, Somerville, Swampscott, Wakefield & Winthrop MA

I asked L Supreme to give us the latest town rundown but he hasn't posted it yet.

Sorry, been busy.... what I gave you so far is all I can give you at the moment. I'll let you know when I can.

One is for HD and the other is for non-HD and the two people that work there were sure of that.

I am telling you I do not trust this company. If FIOS was in available were I live I would jump on it ASAP. The terrible thing is I am switching my Verizon phone and DSL service over to Comcast so I can get the sale price for the package I am ordering. It must be the triple plan for this price.



The reason why the office said there are two types is because there are only 2 different types of DVR you can request HD or Non-HD. You cannot request specific models of HD DVRs because they get what they get from the warehouse, they do not order by model #. If they never get that box from the warehouse then they cannot provide it to you, so no point in making promises that cannot be kept.

The conversion list was starting to get buried, still waiting for L supreme to give us the February List.


Comcast Digital Conversions Boston Area: Updated list

June : Newburyport, Newbury, West Newbury, Rowley and Ipswich.

September :Ashland, Bellingham, Blackstone, Franklin, Holliston, Hopedale, Hopkinton, Marlboro, Medway, Mendon, Milford, Millis & Plainville

October : Arlington, Belmont, Burlington, Cambridge, Lynnfield, MIT, Nahant, Revere, Peabody, Reading, Saugus, Stoneham Wilmington, Winchester & Woburn

November:Attleboro, Avon, Bridgewater, Brockton, Dighton, East Bridgewater, Easton, Hanson, Holbrook, Mansfield, North Attleboro, Norton, Raynham, Rehoboth, Seekonk, Somerset, Stoughton, Swansea, Taunton, West Bridgewater & Whitman

Andover, Lawrence, Georgetown, Groveland, Haverhill, Methuen, North Andover & North Reading

January 2010:
Acton, Ashburnham, Ashby, Ayer, Baldwinville, Bedford, Bolton, Boxborough, Carlisle, Clinton, Concord, Devens (Ayer) East Templeton, Edgewater Hills, Edgewater Terrance, Fitchburg, Framingham, Gardner, Hanscomb Airforce Base, Hudson, Lancaster, Leominster, Lexington, Lincoln, Littleton, Lunenburg, Maynard, Otter River, Phillipston, Shirley, Southboro, Sterling, Stowe, Sudbury, Templeton, Townsend, West Templeton, Westford, Westminster & Winchendon MA


Chelsea, Everett, Lynn, Malden, Medford, Melrose, Salem, Somerville, Swampscott, Wakefield & Winthrop MA

Here you go

March 2010:
Billerica, Dracut, Lowell, Chelmsford, Tewksbury, Tyngsborough, Dedham, Sherborn, Waltham, Newton, Watertown, Wellesley, Weston, Wayland, Natick, Needham

I see some towns on that list that will make at least one person happy.

I see some towns on that list that will make at least one person happy.

Well it makes me half happy :-)

-ken

Here you go

March 2010:
Billerica, Dracut, Lowell, Chelmsford, Tewksbury, Tyngsborough, Dedham, Sherborn, Waltham, Newton, Watertown, Wellesley, Weston, Wayland, Natick, Needham

So there are no February conversions ?

-Ken

So there are no February conversions ?

-Ken

to my knowldege, no

Comcast Digital Conversions Boston Area: Updated list

June : Newburyport, Newbury, West Newbury, Rowley and Ipswich.

September :Ashland, Bellingham, Blackstone, Franklin, Holliston, Hopedale, Hopkinton, Marlboro, Medway, Mendon, Milford, Millis & Plainville

October : Arlington, Belmont, Burlington, Cambridge, Lynnfield, MIT, Nahant, Revere, Peabody, Reading, Saugus, Stoneham Wilmington, Winchester & Woburn

November:Attleboro, Avon, Bridgewater, Brockton, Dighton, East Bridgewater, Easton, Hanson, Holbrook, Mansfield, North Attleboro, Norton, Raynham, Rehoboth, Seekonk, Somerset, Stoughton, Swansea, Taunton, West Bridgewater & Whitman

Andover, Lawrence, Georgetown, Groveland, Haverhill, Methuen, North Andover & North Reading

January 2010:
Acton, Ashburnham, Ashby, Ayer, Baldwinville, Bedford, Bolton, Boxborough, Carlisle, Clinton, Concord, Devens (Ayer) East Templeton, Edgewater Hills, Edgewater Terrance, Fitchburg, Framingham, Gardner, Hanscomb Airforce Base, Hudson, Lancaster, Leominster, Lexington, Lincoln, Littleton, Lunenburg, Maynard, Otter River, Phillipston, Shirley, Southboro, Sterling, Stowe, Sudbury, Templeton, Townsend, West Templeton, Westford, Westminster & Winchendon MA

Chelsea, Everett, Lynn, Malden, Medford, Melrose, Salem, Somerville, Swampscott, Wakefield & Winthrop MA

March 2010:
Billerica, Dracut, Lowell, Chelmsford, Tewksbury, Tyngsborough, Dedham, Sherborn, Waltham, Newton, Watertown, Wellesley, Weston, Wayland, Natick, Needham

What exactly is involved in a conversion. We dont get any new equipment or channels right?? Do we lose anything??

What exactly is involved in a conversion. We dont get any new equipment or channels right?? Do we lose anything??

Your kidding right ? Please read back about 10 pages. You will need to use DTA devices to get extended basic if you had the cable connected directly into the TV. You will get many more HD channels after the conversion.

-Ken

So I got this letter in the mail the other day. I figure you guys would be interested. :) The original letter said Sept. 22, so they pushed it back a week. Sorry about the image quality, I only have a digital camera and I was trying to compromise between size and readability. Click full size under the pic to the right.

http://img197.imageshack.us/img197/3267/comcast1.th.jpg (http://img197.imageshack.us/i/comcast1.jpg/) http://img297.imageshack.us/img297/8185/comcast2.th.jpg (http://img297.imageshack.us/i/comcast2.jpg/) http://img181.imageshack.us/img181/15/comcast3.th.jpg (http://img181.imageshack.us/i/comcast3.jpg/) http://img197.imageshack.us/img197/6783/comcast4.th.jpg (http://img197.imageshack.us/i/comcast4.jpg/)

Also received here in Marlboro. So IIRC that means in about 6 weeks we should see more HD channels start to show up?

Just came back from the Lowell office with a brand new DCX3400 complete with 250gb hard drive !

-Ken

Just came back from the Lowell office with a brand new DCX3400 complete with 250gb hard drive !

-Ken

Cool! Let us know if 1) PQ is better and 2) guide is more responsive (because of more RAM)

Cool! Let us know if 1) PQ is better and 2) guide is more responsive (because of more RAM)

Some notable nice things about the DCX model... you can now do Passthrough of video if you prefer your TV or HT Receiver's scalar to that of the STB. 250gb storage of course. iTouch like front panel (no push buttons).

I think the guide has been more responsive overall since the DCH models. Not like the old DCT-64xx models and DCT-2xxx models.

Has it been determined if the new DCX boxes are compatible with the tivo software? If so, why or why not? Great to see that Watertown is on the list for conversion.

Has it been determined if the new DCX boxes are compatible with the tivo software? If so, why or why not? Great to see that Watertown is on the list for conversion.

No, its not compatible as of yet. :(

Actually no Moto boxes are fully compatible with the Tivo guide. :rolleyes:

Now now Jon; you know what PP meant!

No, its not compatible as of yet. :(

Thanks for the reply. Without delving into any trade secrets or anything may I ask the reason? What does the older moto boxes have that the new one doesn't? Just curious and not complaining..

Thanks

Thanks for the reply. Without delving into any trade secrets or anything may I ask the reason? What does the older moto boxes have that the new one doesn't? Just curious and not complaining..

Thanks


The only thing they have over the new box is that they were around when the development of TiVo was going on. Just wait, I am... they will be compatible, hopefully sooner than later.

The only thing they have over the new box is that they were around when the development of TiVo was going on. Just wait, I am... they will be compatible, hopefully sooner than later.

Thanks L. Supreme..like I mentioned I just asked out of a general tech curiosity..not complaining and actually have been having good luck with my 2 moto tivo boxes so far..KNOCKING ON WOOD!! :)

Just came back from the Lowell office with a brand new DCX3400 complete with 250gb hard drive !

-Ken

Good job! As a heads up, I had to let it sit for a good 24 hours to get the "quirks" out of it. It wasn't reacting to the remote was the biggest, but it appears to be working fine now.

Now we just have to wait until March for more to watch on it :eek:

Your kidding right ? Please read back about 10 pages. You will need to use DTA devices to get extended basic if you had the cable connected directly into the TV. You will get many more HD channels after the conversion.

-Ken

A look into the future: in Maine w/Time Warner's promise of 100 HD's by the end of 2009. They began the process of multiple additions this week.

http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showthread.php?p=17113377#post17113377

Hmmm... TCM HD? Wow I have been hoping for that one for a long time!

Is the RED ZONE channel still being added to the sports and entertainment package?

Here you go

March 2010:
Billerica, Dracut, Lowell, Chelmsford, Tewksbury, Tyngsborough, Dedham, Sherborn, Waltham, Newton, Watertown, Wellesley, Weston, Wayland, Natick, Needham

So, being in Chelmsford, does this mean I have no chance of getting new HD channels until March?! This is ridiculous--I wish they would just do the switchover now!

So, being in Chelmsford, does this mean I have no chance of getting new HD channels until March?! This is ridiculous--I wish they would just do the switchover now!

To make you feel better - no one is promising that you will get new HD channels in March. :D

Just came back from the Lowell office with a brand new DCX3400 complete with 250gb hard drive !

-Ken

I also picked up one today from the Taunton office. They only had about four left

Looks April is the month to shoot for (Even though November should been the City's target).

This is ridiculous--I wish they would just do the switchover now!Which set of towns, being transitioned earlier, do you feel your town and its cohorts are more important than? :D

(j/k)

Which set of towns, being transitioned earlier, do you feel your town and its cohorts are more important than? :D

(j/k)

Chelmsford is way more important than Burlington :-)

Phfft

;)

See what I mean about Comcast not telling the truth. I just left the payment office about 5pm today. I needed to fill out the form to change the name on the account.

Anyway, I asked if there was more then one type of HD DVR and I explained that I wanted the one with the most storage capacity. I was assured there are only two DVR's.

One is for HD and the other is for non-HD and the two people that work there were sure of that.

I am telling you I do not trust this company. If FIOS was in available were I live I would jump on it ASAP. The terrible thing is I am switching my Verizon phone and DSL service over to Comcast so I can get the sale price for the package I am ordering. It must be the triple plan for this price.

Thanks for the feed back and I will be sure to ask about the 250GB HD DVR.

Jim

Had FIOS for 9 months during a temporary living situation.

Real estate deal finally closed and my new place is only Comcast. I was unhappy with them before, and that experience didn't take long to repeat.

Upon ordering on the internet, I was given ability to have 6 month deal on internet and cable. I was reluictant to give social security # online so I called the 800 number to complete transaction. I was told that I couldn't get the same deal and had to pick one of the two. The reason? The online (comcast.com) is a third party and not really comcast. They have different incentives and deals than the phone comcast, which is the first party comcast. Are you kidding me?!? I managed to get the discount on both but the rep said, after coming back from speaking with his "supervisor" (is this a used car dealership?) that he couldn't waive the $30 install charge if he gave me both. I agreed.

This organization just doesn't understand what the customer experiences.

So, being in Chelmsford, does this mean I have no chance of getting new HD channels until March?! This is ridiculous--I wish they would just do the switchover now!
At least your city got on the list. We in the South Coast are still wondering if we have to wait until March of next year!!

Looks April is the month to shoot for (Even though November should been the City's target).
I feel you man, 100%. It makes no sense that they're converting almost all of Bristol & Plymouth in November and leaving our part of the county still in the dark ages. And it's funny that most of the towns that are scheduled or have already converted have the option of Fios (which has virtually all HD channels and the much-desired Boston networks) while we still can only wait impatiently until they roll up in our area. Yeah there's the option for satellite, but I live in public housing, which also rules out my option of OTA antenna. Can't get an indoor one either because I live in the Southern-most part of the region and in an area blocked by this big tree. Tried it before and could only pull in one channel that didn't stay on.

Had FIOS for 9 months during a temporary living situation.

Real estate deal finally closed and my new place is only Comcast. I was unhappy with them before, and that experience didn't take long to repeat.

Upon ordering on the internet, I was given ability to have 6 month deal on internet and cable. I was reluictant to give social security # online so I called the 800 number to complete transaction. I was told that I couldn't get the same deal and had to pick one of the two. The reason? The online (comcast.com) is a third party and not really comcast. They have different incentives and deals than the phone comcast, which is the first party comcast. Are you kidding me?!? I managed to get the discount on both but the rep said, after coming back from speaking with his "supervisor" (is this a used car dealership?) that he couldn't waive the $30 install charge if he gave me both. I agreed.

This organization just doesn't understand what the customer experiences.

email comcastcares@cable.comcast.com and let them know your situation. This email address cuts through lots of red tape.

-Ken

Cool! Let us know if 1) PQ is better and 2) guide is more responsive (because of more RAM)

I can report that the PQ is definitely better when using the native mode on the DCX3400 over my old DCT-3412. I had my old box set to 1080i output. When watching Fox (720P), the picture was always a bit soft due to the extra scaling step. Now it is much sharper.

The only downside is that changing channels between resolutions now takes longer, if that is an issue to you then dont upgrade. For me PQ is all that counts.

To me the guide is the same, but then again i never had problems with the 3412.

-Ken

I too wanna know when tivo will be supported in the new dcx box

I can report that the PQ is definitely better when using the native mode on the DCX3400 over my old DCT-3412. I had my old box set to 1080i output. When watching Fox (720P), the picture was always a bit soft due to the extra scaling step. Now it is much sharper.

The only downside is that changing channels between resolutions now takes longer, if that is an issue to you then dont upgrade. For me PQ is all that counts.

To me the guide is the same, but then again i never had problems with the 3412.

-Ken

Have you noticed increased speed, or anything else different over the DCH boxes?

Have you noticed increased speed, or anything else different over the DCH boxes?

I never had a DCH box so i could not tell you. All I can say is that the box seems responsive and stable. Hard Drive is twice the size as my old DCT-3412 which is great, and the native mode (passing through the original resolution) makes everything look better on my TV.

-Ken

Looks like Comcast is shooting out messages dealing with Redzone launch on 9/13 just got one this morning at 3:18am

Channels 287 or 291

NH needs to hurry up and make the switch! I am tired of the 41 HD channels I have. Anyone know when it is happening? My local office keeps telling me the end of the year. But why would they jump to NH if they are not done with MA?

Hello,

I could use some advice about the Comcast HD DVR.

Next Saturday 9-12 the Comcast tech will be at my house to upgrade my service to a triple play. The Comcast CSR said the HD DVR will be able to record 40 hours of HD programming so from reading in here I guess it will have the 250gb. I realize that will happen only if that box is available when the Comcast tech leaves the garage.

My question is if anyone knows what I should look for on the HD DVR to find out if it really is capable of the 40 hours.

Will it say on the back 250gb or DCX3400 - 250gb?

What is it I should look for?

I thought if the tech brings a different box I can mention it to him and maybe he will have the better DVR in his truck.

I know this may seem like a simple question to all of you that are experienced with this but in a few days my first HDTV will be delivered and this is the first time I will have HD service from Comcast. So I can use some help.

Thanks in advance for any info about this.

Jim

Hello,

I could use some advice about the Comcast HD DVR.

Next Saturday 9-12 the Comcast tech will be at my house to upgrade my service to a triple play. The Comcast CSR said the HD DVR will be able to record 40 hours of HD programming so from reading in here I guess it will have the 250gb. I realize that will happen only if that box is available when the Comcast tech leaves the garage.

My question is if anyone knows what I should look for on the HD DVR to find out if it really is capable of the 40 hours.

Will it say on the back 250gb or DCX3400 - 250gb?

What is it I should look for?

I thought if the tech brings a different box I can mention it to him and maybe he will have the better DVR in his truck.

I know this may seem like a simple question to all of you that are experienced with this but in a few days my first HDTV will be delivered and this is the first time I will have HD service from Comcast. So I can use some help.

Thanks in advance for any info about this.

Jim

The 250GB box is BLACK, all others (to the best of my knowledge are silver). The DCX3400 also has the model number in the lower front left corner.

The 250GB box is BLACK, all others (to the best of my knowledge are silver). The DCX3400 also has the model number in the lower front left corner.

kenvt

Thank you for the information.

Jim

You could also check out this wiki page for a quick overview and pics of the different models....

http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/How_to_use_a_Motorola_DVR/Identifying_your_model

It's nice to see you're realistic in understanding that the tech may not have the box that the phone rep said you would get. Also keep in mind that if the tech doesn't have one you can just accept the one he has & swap it at your local office for the DCX when they have them.

Jim,

You should know that the amount of HD recording time is based mostly on how the stream is encoded and what bitrate it is transmitted as. HBO takes up far less space (in my experience) than broadcast (for the same recorded time) since the bitrate on HBO is so much less. This is partially due to HBO's low bitrate encodes and the fact that Comcast is further reducing the bitrate when QAM stuffing.

I know this is probably too technical and may be going over your head but the way HD DVRs work is they basically save the stream untouched from whats coming through the cable. This is opposed to SD DVR's that rerecords the stream its own way, much like a VCR. The amount of remaining storage space recording that way is much more predicable.

Effective 10/1 Courtesy Fall River Herald News

http://fallriver.shopping.wickedlocal.com/ROP/ads.aspx?advid=654031

Anyone know if the DCX boxes will be supporting the Comcast TiVo software soon?

I'd love the extra HD space, but after using the TiVo-ified Comcast DVR for over a year, and even though it has probably killed 6 boxes as they worked out the bugs, I cant go back :D

Had FIOS for 9 months during a temporary living situation.

Real estate deal finally closed and my new place is only Comcast. I was unhappy with them before, and that experience didn't take long to repeat.

Upon ordering on the internet, I was given ability to have 6 month deal on internet and cable. I was reluictant to give social security # online so I called the 800 number to complete transaction. I was told that I couldn't get the same deal and had to pick one of the two. The reason? The online (comcast.com) is a third party and not really comcast. They have different incentives and deals than the phone comcast, which is the first party comcast. Are you kidding me?!? I managed to get the discount on both but the rep said, after coming back from speaking with his "supervisor" (is this a used car dealership?) that he couldn't waive the $30 install charge if he gave me both. I agreed.

This organization just doesn't understand what the customer experiences.

I went through a similar experience about two weeks ago. Went online to order Comcast (internet and tv) for my new home, saw they had a six month promo price on each and went through the whole process. At the end you need to go into a 'live chat' to confirm your order and finalize an install date. But the chat app crashed twice, so I gave up and called. Over the phone I got a 12-month promo price on both, so for the first year I'll be getting the same stuff I have in my apartment now for about $40 less per month. If the website worked Comcast would have made more money off me than they will now. Still waiting on the self-install internet kit they told me would be in the mail, though.

Effective 10/1 Courtesy Fall River Herald News

http://fallriver.shopping.wickedlocal.com/ROP/ads.aspx?advid=654031

I get an empty page :confused: What did it say?

Hi All,

Anyone in NH been waiting for the migration? I just talked to a tech supervisor and he told me April of next year or sooner. Good news!!!

That is good news, relatively. Given Verizon's decision to abandon most of NH, I wouldn't have been surprised if Comcast directed its efforts in the region to those areas where Verizon saw value to be capitalized on.

I get an empty page :confused: What did it say?

Seems like they removed it right when i posted it :p

It said Attention Comcast Customers: My Network TV will be Available in the Following cities on Channel 292 Effective 10/1:

One of them were Fall River

Most of the cities listed were all throughout Bristol County about 18/20 in total

If anymore pop on i will be sure to post an attachment of the changes.

A few questions about the DTAs as I look forward to the transition:

Is there a composite (yellow/red/white) output or is it RF only?
Is there a remote? If so, what does it control?
Is the limit of 2 free ones impacted by the number of boxes you currently have?
Even though the boxes are "free", will there be any other fees added to the bill?
Does it only tune the 2 digit channels or will 3 digit channels also be available?

Thanks!

here's some towns I haven't heard on the list...pembroke, kingston, halifax, plympton, hanover, norwell etc.

I emailed that comcastcares as the ETA for some of the transitions on these but the email bounced back!

No composite, RF only.
Yes there is a remote, it only controls the TV power & volume as well as changing channels.
Pretty sure the 2 free are not impacted by other boxes.
Pretty sure there is no other charge.
Almost positive it only does 2 digits.

Complete DTA package contents (http://picasaweb.google.com/virgegx/ComcastDTAUnboxing#)

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_2Z8F202GwI8/STX0xl0t6uI/AAAAAAAAACY/mVu5isR5Nzs/s800/DSC02918.JPG

Will do 3 digits. There are a bunch of channels in the 100's and 200's @ least in Newbury. Pretty good image on my Sony 46" LCD.

Will do 3 digits. There are a bunch of channels in the 100's and 200's @ least in Newbury. Pretty good image on my Sony 46" LCD.

I just got the letter in Chelmsford for the March 2010 conversion. I am now able to go pick up my DTA devices. I assume that this means that if I did a rescan on my QAM tuner I should find all the extended basic channels ?

-Ken

here's some towns I haven't heard on the list...pembroke, kingston, halifax, plympton, hanover, norwell etc.

I emailed that comcastcares as the ETA for some of the transitions on these but the email bounced back!

I believe those are all former Adelphia towns. Have we seen any former Adelphia systems listed yet? I don't know what their footprint outside of the south shore was.

I just got the letter in Chelmsford for the March 2010 conversion. I am now able to go pick up my DTA devices. I assume that this means that if I did a rescan on my QAM tuner I should find all the extended basic channels ?

-Ken

Got the same notice in Billerica - March 11, 2010.

I just got the letter in Chelmsford for the March 2010 conversion. I am now able to go pick up my DTA devices. I assume that this means that if I did a rescan on my QAM tuner I should find all the extended basic channels ?

-Ken

Ken,

Good thought! I think I'll try a rescan tonight...How are you liking the DCX? I tried to scroll quickly through the guide this morning and the box stopped seeing the remote (front panel still worked). I'm hoping it's fine when I get home tonight.

No composite, RF only.
Yes there is a remote, it only controls the TV power & volume as well as changing channels.
Pretty sure the 2 free are not impacted by other boxes.
Pretty sure there is no other charge.
Almost positive it only does 2 digits.

Complete DTA package contents (http://picasaweb.google.com/virgegx/ComcastDTAUnboxing#)

http://lh5.ggpht.com/_2Z8F202GwI8/STX0xl0t6uI/AAAAAAAAACY/mVu5isR5Nzs/s800/DSC02918.JPG

Thanks for the response...What's the cable in the top center?...So it controls the TV power/volume, do you program a TV code into it like the other Comcast remotes?

Thanks for the response...What's the cable in the top center?...So it controls the TV power/volume, do you program a TV code into it like the other Comcast remotes?
The cable at the top center is the IR extender, or whatever they call it.

Mickey

Got a DCX3400 in Newburyport yesterday. A couple left.

apologies in advance if this has been covered..

NH Seacoast; Digital Preferred/Classic

We've been getting NFL network since 8/1. That was no surprise, given the NFL/Comcast negotiations. OTOH--

No longer receiving ESPN Classic, but we are getting ESPNU, NBATV and NHLTV.

Did I miss an announcement?

apologies in advance if this has been covered..

NH Seacoast; Digital Preferred/Classic

We've been getting NFL network since 8/1. That was no surprise, given the NFL/Comcast negotiations. OTOH--

No longer receiving ESPN Classic, but we are getting ESPNU, NBATV and NHLTV.

Did I miss an announcement?

Yes...You can search back to see the announcement, but the direct answer to your question is that ESPN Classic moved solely to the Sports and Entertainment package.

The cable at the top center is the IR extender, or whatever they call it.

Mickey

Correct. So you could hook the box up & put it behind the TV or where ever you like & just have the IR eye in the sight of the remote it should continue to change channels. One word of caution when hooking these boxes up, the hole on the back for the IR is the same size as the AC adapter. However if you plug the AC adapter in the IR you may very well cook the box. Not that anyone on here would do that, but it's been done. Also the picture is missing one more thing, it comes with 2 little pieces of velcro tape so you can keep the box in place.

I assume that this means that if I did a rescan on my QAM tuner I should find all the extended basic channels ?

Yes they should come in the digital form now.

No composite, RF only.

I've confirmed that my TV only has one RF input, therefore I'm looking at a splitter with an A/B switch in order to keep HD locals. It would appear that a straight combiner replacing the A/B will not work as HSN is broadcast on Ch. 3, is that correct?

I was wondering which was a better way to go: Comcast HD cable box with TIVO software or TIVO HD box w/Comcast cards?

Anyone care to share their experiences?

Thanks.

You're really comparing apples and oranges. The TiVo HD will run you about $700, including lifetime service, up-front, while the Comcast/TiVo solution, assuming it is available to you, requires practically no up-front investment on your part. As you would expect, the TiVo HD offers you so much more, in return for that up-front investment. So they're really not comparable to each other in any way.

Instead, they are complementary offerings. You would go with the one that best fits your personal preferences.

So to answer your question, it isn't a matter of knowing about the two different solutions, but rather we need to know about you.

What is your situation financially, in terms of being able to afford the up-front cost of the TiVo HD (either $250 for the box itself, or $700 for the box plus lifetime service)? How much value do you see in being able to enjoy Netflix Watch Instantly? Amazon Unbox? YouTube through the TiVo? Would you get much use out of TiVo Desktop (the ability to transfer recordings to a PC, for long-term off-line storage, and/or for viewing on your laptop, or mobile device)? Do you see value in being able to replace the hard drive in the TiVo HD with 1TB to get over 100 hours of HD storage (something you can't do with the Comcast/TiVo solution)?

Essentially, please tell us about you, what you hope to get and what is your willingness to pay (and how much), and from that we can help point you towards the best solution for you.

You answered part of my question most thoroughly; I wasn't aware that the Comcast/Tivo solution feature set was a subset of those of Tivo. So, thank you for that information.

However, I have read some negative experiences folks have had with the Tivo + comcast card solution in terms of getting it to work. Of course, those comments were about a year old and may be irrelevant today.

Actually, there are features that are only available on the Comcast/TiVo solution as well, specifically Comcast Video On Demand and Pay Per View.

There are negative experiences with, well, essentially everything. However, from what I can tell, on TCF and from here, it is getting to the point where bad install experiences are relatively rare. However, if it happens to you, then it feels like 100% eh?

Gorgeous and working great. All the same remote control functionality as older models (30 sec skip).

I know this has been alluded to in at least one other post, but the IR receiver ('eye") on the DCX3400 is on the top of the faceplate to the far right, just above and slightly to the right of the Ch^ button. You can find it by shining a flashlight @ the faceplate and looking for the red circle. As stated, it obeys all of the commands of the previous box. No HDMI problems here.

In the Comcast HDTV thread under AVS HD Programming, A Maryland Comcast system is getting 48 new HD channels after part 1 of the expanded basic migration to digital only is done. Has this happened in the early towns that have begun migration already? Any timetable for Boston burbs systems to get the 40-50 new HDs after migration has been done in our town.

I've heard anywhere from 15-25 new channels myself

Can someone help me out with some info on the SD channels? I'm curious if NBC (WHDH) and FOX (WFXT) have their scripted primetime shows presented in the letterbox format or if they just center cut the feed.

Can someone help me out with some info on the SD channels? I'm curious if NBC (WHDH) and FOX (WFXT) have their scripted primetime shows presented in the letterbox format or if they just center cut the feed.

Center cut now as the HD feed is the only feed that is sent out over the air

Just bought a new HD TV and also upgraded my cable to HD/digital. I've noticed when changing channels between two HD stations, there is some visual noise just before the new station settles in. Changing channels between two SD stations doesn't exhibit this noise. I hope this isn't an issue with my TV.
I'm using an HDMI cable between cable box and TV.

Good afternoon..was wondering where I can find the Red Zone channel on my lineup. I thought that I had the appropriate channel package but have been unable to find it this past Sunday.

Thanks in advance.

Good afternoon..was wondering where I can find the Red Zone channel on my lineup. I thought that I had the appropriate channel package but have been unable to find it this past Sunday.

Thanks in advance.

Ch 287 for me.. No HD version yet.

Ch 287 for me.. No HD version yet.


Thank you very much!!

Just bought a new HD TV and also upgraded my cable to HD/digital. I've noticed when changing channels between two HD stations, there is some visual noise just before the new station settles in. Changing channels between two SD stations doesn't exhibit this noise. I hope this isn't an issue with my TV.
I'm using an HDMI cable between cable box and TV.

I solved my problem by replacing the comcast provided hdmi cable with a Version 1.3b Category 2 type cable.

I never had a DCH box so i could not tell you. All I can say is that the box seems responsive and stable. Hard Drive is twice the size as my old DCT-3412 which is great, and the native mode (passing through the original resolution) makes everything look better on my TV.

-Ken

I am thinking of getting one myself. Do they charge any fees for switching boxes?

I am thinking of getting one myself. Do they charge any fees for switching boxes?

No fee. I just replaced mine.
I must say that the ability to set the resolution in the service menu to "native" is a very nice feature. My plasma's scaler is significantly better than the one in the Moto box. The DCX box seems to be faster that my previous DCT and DCH boxes. :)

They were testing a new HDPPV channel yesterday in Bristol County. Channel 398. Personally I would have preferred the NFL Red Zone channel if they were only going to add a channel that is on only for a few hours per week. It does advertise in the guide that a UFC event is on this weekend on 398.

To those that added dta's:

What channels are you getting in the triple digits?

One of my boxes gets none, and the other gets Ch 217(PBS Kids) plus about 4 others. Nothing like the 10-20 more channels promised on the packaging. I was hoping I would get PBS Sprout and Nickelodeon Noggin on these, so the kids shows could be played in the den and free up the HD for games, movies etc.

Beyond the channel list, I am a bit confused that I get more on one DTA than the other. Should I try re-activating them to see if it helps?

To those that added dta's:

What channels are you getting in the triple digits?

One of my boxes gets none, and the other gets Ch 217(PBS Kids) plus about 4 others. Nothing like the 10-20 more channels promised on the packaging. I was hoping I would get PBS Sprout and Nickelodeon Noggin on these, so the kids shows could be played in the den and free up the HD for games, movies etc.

Beyond the channel list, I am a bit confused that I get more on one DTA than the other. Should I try re-activating them to see if it helps?

Why not call comcast support ? They have been pretty helpful in the past. I think you are asking for trouble to try and re-activate.

-Ken

D-boy
Did you do an analog channel rescan with your TV? In the Newburyport area, there are 186 and 13 channels in the 200's with the dta.

No fee. I just replaced mine.
I must say that the ability to set the resolution in the service menu to "native" is a very nice feature. My plasma's scaler is significantly better than the one in the Moto box. The DCX box seems to be faster that my previous DCT and DCH boxes. :)

Thanks. Got the box today. Picture seems slightly better. Flipping channels seems slower. Maybe because I had component before and HDMI now.

I need to swap out my digital box for an HD box tomorrow.

I know I need to ask for the HDMI cable if they have any but will I also need a different remote control for the HD box?

I was also told to ask them to refresh the box just incase it hasn't been used for a long time.

Is there anything else I should know to ask for before I go to the payment center.

This is just the HD box not the HD DVR.

Jim

When I got my HD box, they gave me an HDMI cable, new remote, and power supply and I had to activate the box.

When I got my HD box, they gave me an HDMI cable, new remote, and power supply and I had to activate the box.

Thanks for the feed back. It is nice to know ahead of time what to expect so I appreciate this.

What do you mean by "power supply".

Is that the same as refreshing of the box that I was told to get?

Also, how long did it take to activate the box?

The reason I am asking is because I will have the TV installer here on Saturday and he charges a lot for overtime.

Jim

Thanks for the feed back. It is nice to know ahead of time what to expect so I appreciate this.

What do you mean by "power supply".

Is that the same as refreshing of the box that I was told to get?

Also, how long did it take to activate the box?

The reason I am asking is because I will have the TV installer here on Saturday and he charges a lot for overtime.

Jim

My HD box, has a separate power cord/"transformer" that plugs into the box, you know, like that whihc comes with a laptop. Activation took minutes to initiate once you get through the telephone prompt gauntlet; then they ask you to wait 15-20 min for the guide/whatever to download.

They were testing a new HDPPV channel yesterday in Bristol County. Channel 398. Personally I would have preferred the NFL Red Zone channel if they were only going to add a channel that is on only for a few hours per week. It does advertise in the guide that a UFC event is on this weekend on 398.

Just saw that yesterday on 398 it really bothers me that can't add a worthwhile HD channel like Red Zone as you said, but knowing comcast anything can happen.

Okay we're about a month away from the analog reclamation, and nothing... I haven't heard one word from Comcast about it (not even on the bill) since that original heads-up they gave mid-summer about it.

Shouldn't they have provided details about how to get DTAs already?

Okay we're about a month away from the analog reclamation, and nothing... I haven't heard one word from Comcast about it (not even on the bill) since that original heads-up they gave mid-summer about it.

Shouldn't they have provided details about how to get DTAs already?

in my opinion Yes they should have unless they are looking to delay it or something to that nature you would gotten a notice by now, i wonder what is taking them so long to just send out a flier or even a notice on your bill to tell you?

Well, I was asking more along the lines of what they've done in previous areas.

Well, I was asking more along the lines of what they've done in previous areas.

Marlboro was scheduled for "September" and I got the letter with details on the 1st or 2nd of the month, IIRC.

Okay, so it sounds like we're still in good shape.

Okay we're about a month away from the analog reclamation, and nothing... I haven't heard one word from Comcast about it (not even on the bill) since that original heads-up they gave mid-summer about it.

Shouldn't they have provided details about how to get DTAs already?

Bicker - I just got the letter for the March conversion here in chelmsford. On that letter was my "unique digital id" and instructions on how to order the DTAs. Didn't your original letter have this information ? I just ordered mine without any problems, with free shipping too.

-Ken

I didn't notice anything like that.... It seemed to me to be a brochure letter, not one made especially for me. I'll see if I can find it.

EDITED: Found it.... nothing here specific to me.

I didn't notice anything like that.... It seemed to me to be a brochure letter, not one made especially for me. I'll see if I can find it.

EDITED: Found it.... nothing here specific to me.

I would call Comcast since I could order 6 months in advance.

-Ken

Bicker - I just got the letter for the March conversion here in chelmsford. On that letter was my "unique digital id" and instructions on how to order the DTAs. Didn't your original letter have this information ? I just ordered mine without any problems, with free shipping too.

-Ken

You don't need the ID, just get the kit from lowell and connect it. You will see an number to call and follow voice prompts. Take 3 minutes.

Anyone know the remote code for DTA remote? I want to control DTA adapter with my radioshack remote.

I didn't notice anything like that.... It seemed to me to be a brochure letter, not one made especially for me. I'll see if I can find it.

EDITED: Found it.... nothing here specific to me.

Bicker...It does seem like a form letter, but on the very top right is a "Unique Digital ID#"...Did you get that?

Nope.

I called Comcast and they don't seem concerned that we never got notifications. They also don't have DTAs (in Wilmington) and won't for at least two weeks. They said that after that I can just go in and pick them up -- that I don't have to make any arrangements to get them.

I also tried to renew my 6 month promotion: No sale. Not even with the specter of me switching to FiOS. The guy said that they simply aren't allowed (anymore?) to issue a promotion for the service a customer currently has. You have to add a new service, to get a new promotion. I'm not sure I'm willing to do that.

I also am concerned about switching to FiOS given that it'll screw up my port forwarding and port triggering arrangements. Also, from what I'm gathering, I may have a problem getting FiOS to service my telephone and HSI needs, given that my telephone NIM is in my basement, and my router must be on the second floor.

Nope.

I called Comcast and they don't seem concerned that we never got notifications. They also don't have DTAs (in Wilmington) and won't for at least two weeks. They said that after that I can just go in and pick them up -- that I don't have to make any arrangements to get them.

I also tried to renew my 6 month promotion: No sale. Not even with the specter of me switching to FiOS. The guy said that they simply aren't allowed (anymore?) to issue a promotion for the service a customer currently has. You have to add a new service, to get a new promotion. I'm not sure I'm willing to do that.

Why do you think I switched? I had the old $159 bundle they they jacked it up on me. The current Comcast $159 bundle dosen't offer TMC or Epix.
My current bundle may be $166 but that includes a multi room DVR AND a SECOND HD Box.

Since you probably don't do premium channels HD Extreme will probably work for you. Its basically Digital preffered AND the Sports and Entertainment tier PLUS around 40-50 channels comcast DOSEN'T offer not to mentyion all the HD PLUS 25/15 and unlimited long distance for about what Comcast wants for Digital starter local and more and maybe 6/2




I also am concerned about switching to FiOS given that it'll screw up my port forwarding and port triggering arrangements. Also, from what I'm gathering, I may have a problem getting FiOS to service my telephone and HSI needs, given that my telephone NIM is in my basement, and my router must be on the second floor.

Fios phone is POTS over fiber. You should have no problem having the router on the 2nd floor and the phone NIM in the basement.
Go to the mall and give it a looksee. You may get an even better deal ordering online though.

NECN is on ch 115 and the Burlington access channels are 39,40,and 41.
Wave WMUR and WBPX-HD goodbye (for now)
CSN-HD IS FULL TIME on 577.

What about the port forwarding/port triggering? Cable television has always been a secondary consideration to me. Being able to RDP in to my two workstations at home, from work, from wherever I am on vacation, from where I am when visiting family, etc. -- that's always my first priority. I need to get more details on that. I asked on a FiOS HSI forum six months ago, and after a lot of messages posted, the consensus was that it "could" be done, but if you're not a professional tech, you'd have to wait a few months for those that are to write up a FAQ. :) I haven't checked back recently to see if they ever finished the FAQ.

I also want to be sure I can get a Wireless-N router. While most of my devices are hard-wired to the router (I need four ports), I do have two wireless devices, and there's no sense in downgrading back to Wireless-G.

However, the other thing that kept me from considering FiOS six months ago was that there were known incompatibilities between FiOS TV and my TiVo S3 DVR. I'm pretty sure those have now been fully resolved. I'll need to check on that.

I currently have Digital Starter; that's all I need.

Are you sure that FiOS telephone is POTS over fiber? I thought it was voice over IP.

Look into the Ooma phone system. Can be placed with your router and as long as you have a phone jack nearby, your good to go. One of the best purchases I have made.

What about the port forwarding/port triggering? Cable television has always been a secondary consideration to me. Being able to RDP in to my two workstations at home, from work, from wherever I am on vacation, from where I am when visiting family, etc. -- that's always my first priority. I need to get more details on that. I asked on a FiOS HSI forum six months ago, and after a lot of messages posted, the consensus was that it "could" be done, but if you're not a professional tech, you'd have to wait a few months for those that are to write up a FAQ. :) I haven't checked back recently to see if they ever finished the FAQ.

I also want to be sure I can get a Wireless-N router. While most of my devices are hard-wired to the router (I need four ports), I do have two wireless devices, and there's no sense in downgrading back to Wireless-G.

However, the other thing that kept me from considering FiOS six months ago was that there were known incompatibilities between FiOS TV and my TiVo S3 DVR. I'm pretty sure those have now been fully resolved. I'll need to check on that.

I currently have Digital Starter; that's all I need.

Are you sure that FiOS telephone is POTS over fiber? I thought it was voice over IP.

What makes you think that FioS is any different in terms of RDP ?

-Ken

Because of MoCa. It means I cannot use my own router, that supports 802.11n. It offers me four wired ports, plus port forwarding and port triggering.

Because of MoCa. It means I cannot use my own router, that supports 802.11n. It offers me four wired ports, plus port forwarding and port triggering.

http://www.ehow.com/how_4663412_enable-miwr-verizon-fios-router.html

http://devote.your.life.auricom.com/?p=26

What about the port forwarding/port triggering? Cable television has always been a secondary consideration to me. Being able to RDP in to my two workstations at home, from work, from wherever I am on vacation, from where I am when visiting family, etc. -- that's always my first priority.

Are you sure that FiOS telephone is POTS over fiber? I thought it was voice over IP.

port forwarding/port triggering? I am not the guy to ask about that.

Comcast is voice over IP and the phone had to be hooked up to THEIR cable modem. I KNOW Fios is currently POTS over fiber. I asked. :)

since you would most likely want more then just locals in HD,HD EXtreme would be the TV package you want and blows Digital Starter away for about the same price or less

Run away! Run Away! FAST!

Bicker has been absorbed by an alien pod.

Comcast, Supreme.... Don't let him do this. It's against the company line

Because of MoCa. It means I cannot use my own router, that supports 802.11n. It offers me four wired ports, plus port forwarding and port triggering.http://www.ehow.com/how_4663412_enable-miwr-verizon-fios-router.html
http://devote.your.life.auricom.com/?p=26This is an 802.11g router. I don't see much logic in taking a down-grade like that.

port forwarding/port triggering? I am not the guy to ask about that. It's worse. While there is a way to do it in their router, the issue is how do I do it with my 802.11n router. So you get into a whole bunch of wired bridging stuff.

Comcast is voice over IP and the phone had to be hooked up to THEIR cable modem. I KNOW Fios is currently POTS over fiber. I asked. :)Interesting. U-verse.... they're VOIP right?

since you would most likely want more then just locals in HD,HD EXtreme would be the TV package you want and blows Digital Starter away for about the same price or lessAnd they include cable boxes (at least DTAs) on three televisions, for no extra charge, like Comcast?

Run away! Run Away! FAST! Bicker has been absorbed by an alien pod. Comcast, Supreme.... Don't let him do this. It's against the company linePfah. I went through this six months ago. I actually evaluate all of my options, periodically, and then choose the best one.

Imagine that! :)

I KNOW Fios is currently POTS over fiber. I asked. :)

I was going to answer back to this just saying that inside your house it's POTS, but once it got to Verizon's network it's VOIP, however it's not that cut & dry & not really true. Yes it is POTS in your house, but Verizon doesn't use VOIP (yet), however I don't think you could really call it POTS either (closer to VOIP between the 2 options I think). You could search for hours online & see people go back & forth on what it really is. I think one person sums it up pretty well by saying "it's not VOIP, it's VOWPIU (WPIU = whatever protocol is used)" So while it may not be Voice Over IP, it is over some other protocol, but I don't think calling their system POTS is at all truthful.

The essential aspect, for me, is the reliance of non-HSI services on the modem. I basically don't want any such dependencies. I want HSI to be HSI and only HSI. I want telephone to rely exclusively on its own equipment (inside my home). I want television to rely exclusively on its own equipment (inside my home).

The essential aspect, for me, is the reliance of non-HSI services on the modem. I basically don't want any such dependencies. I want HSI to be HSI and only HSI. I want telephone to rely exclusively on its own equipment (inside my home). I want television to rely exclusively on its own equipment (inside my home).

Sure, you can do all that but be prepared to pay more money for doing so! ;)

Precisely. And that's typically how the calculations result in Comcast being the least expensive (since their HSI is independent, at least from their television service).

Got notification in with my current bill that a bunch of HD stations are being added here on October 6. Spike HD, MLB HD, Bravo HD among others. I think there are 19 new stations total.

The essential aspect, for me, is the reliance of non-HSI services on the modem. I basically don't want any such dependencies. I want HSI to be HSI and only HSI. I want telephone to rely exclusively on its own equipment (inside my home). I want television to rely exclusively on its own equipment (inside my home).

The "Modem/router" has nothing to do with th ephone persay. It does handle the guide date and on demand stuff for the tV so if you use all cable cards,Fios would be better.

Per an insert in my latest Comcast bill, I'll get these channels in Marlboro on 10/6:

Hallmark Movie Channel
Travel Channel HD
Lifetime Movie Network HD
QVC HD
Disney XD HD
Bravo HD
CNBC HD
ESPNews HD
Bio HD
Planet Green HD
MLB HD
MGM HD
Nickelodeon HD
E! HD
Lifetime HD
Spike TV HD
Cartoon Network HD

I think I'm about 2 years away from FiOS so I thought this would be a great time for a 2year plan. Could someone comment on what the best 2 year bundle package is in the area these days, so I know what to fight for when I call. I just need basic HD (no movie channels) with the Sports package, "decent" internet speed (I surf a lot, but don't game or download much video), and I'll add phone service to get an upgrade.

However, I need to have phone service compatible with my security system. I heard there were issues with Comcast in the past, but they have been fixed. Can anyone comment?

L Supreme,

Any idea when we will see the A25 guide upgrade ?

Thanks,

Ken

this year if everything goes well

this year if everything goes well

Well that really narrows it down:rolleyes:

Just bought a new HD TV and also upgraded my cable to HD/digital. I've noticed when changing channels between two HD stations, there is some visual noise just before the new station settles in. Changing channels between two SD stations doesn't exhibit this noise. I hope this isn't an issue with my TV.
I'm using an HDMI cable between cable box and TV.

I solved my problem by replacing the comcast provided hdmi cable with a Version 1.3b Category 2 type cable.

Got a new 3400 box with my install on Saturday. I have this noise issue, primarily when flipping from an HD channel to an SD one. Currently just using the comcast supplied HDMI cable straight from box to tv. Will try a different cable when I set up the rest of my gear this weekend.

Got a new 3400 box with my install on Saturday. I have this noise issue, primarily when flipping from an HD channel to an SD one. Currently just using the comcast supplied HDMI cable straight from box to tv. Will try a different cable when I set up the rest of my gear this weekend.

I "spoke" too soon after replacing my HDMI cable, it didn't make any difference. I still get the noise. I had Comcast make a house call and I was told that the noise is normal.

I "spoke" too soon after replacing my HDMI cable, it didn't make any difference. I still get the noise. I had Comcast make a house call and I was told that the noise is normal.

If you are using the"Native" mode you will get lots of noise as it negotiates the resolution change. I am happy to live with this as the 720P stuff looks sharper without first being converted to 1080i.

-Ken

If you are using the"Native" mode you will get lots of noise as it negotiates the resolution change. I am happy to live with this as the 720P stuff looks sharper without first being converted to 1080i.

-Ken

What do you mean by "native" mode?

What do you mean by "native" mode?

The new box has the ability to pass along the 720p, 1080i, or 480p resolution directly to the tv for processing. This eliminates one down/up conversion and usually results in a better picture on the tv. I doubt however that you got the box this way, I think mine was defaulted to 1080i so maybe you have some other issue.

-Ken

What do you mean by "native" mode?

You have to set it up in the service menu.

If you are using the"Native" mode you will get lots of noise as it negotiates the resolution change. I am happy to live with this as the 720P stuff looks sharper without first being converted to 1080i.

-Ken

Some of the new Sony's make a pretty bad click noise when changing between resolutions, seen it on several TV's so it wasn't just one bad one.

You have to set it up in the service menu.

How do I get to the service menu? I have an HD box, but no DVR. Thanks

How do I get to the service menu? I have an HD box, but no DVR. Thanks

When the cable box is off, press menu on the remote.

When the cable box is off, press menu on the remote.

One of the menu options I found there was TV Display Capability; this is what was listed:

1080i - Yes
720p - Yes
480p - Yes
480i - Yes
1080p24 Pass - Yes
1080p30 Pass - No

Is this what you mean? How do these settings relate to "Native" mode?

What is everyone using for settings on their 3400 series boxes as far as resolution, 480 settings, and sharpness goes?

One of the menu options I found there was TV Display Capability; this is what was listed:

1080i - Yes
720p - Yes
480p - Yes
480i - Yes
1080p24 Pass - Yes
1080p30 Pass - No

Is this what you mean? How do these settings relate to "Native" mode?

Not the set capability, that is determined automatically by the hdmi/dvi cabling. You cycle through the HDMI/YPbPr Output until you get to "NATIVE", then hit the menu button to back out. The cable box will now output the native resolution of the channel. You will see the resolution display on the box change between 720p and 1080i depending on the channel. Standard def channels will display 480p.

-Ken

Not the set capability, that is determined automatically by the hdmi/dvi cabling. You cycle through the HDMI/YPbPr Output until you get to "NATIVE", then hit the menu button to back out. The cable box will now output the native resolution of the channel. You will see the resolution display on the box change between 720p and 1080i depending on the channel. Standard def channels will display 480p.

-Ken

Hi Ken,

I didn't see that menu option. The menu options I have are:
TV Aspect Ratio
TV Display Capability
Auto Pillarbox
Closed Caption
Front Panel Settings
HDMI Settings
Restore Defaults

HDMI Settings has a sub menu item called Disable Auto Detect which was set to NO; toggling it to Yes, did not make any difference when switching channels.

Phil

We finally got the second letter regarding the digital migration here in Burlington.

What is everyone using for settings on their 3400 series boxes as far as resolution, 480 settings, and sharpness goes?

I have all resolution options on YES, including 480i (my TV can handle all of them). Sharpness on 3 (default) and NATIVE pass through.

Not the set capability, that is determined automatically by the hdmi/dvi cabling. You cycle through the HDMI/YPbPr Output until you get to "NATIVE", then hit the menu button to back out. The cable box will now output the native resolution of the channel. You will see the resolution display on the box change between 720p and 1080i depending on the channel. Standard def channels will display 480p.

-Ken

Actually, standard def channels should display 480i.

Hi Ken,

I didn't see that menu option. The menu options I have are:
TV Aspect Ratio
TV Display Capability
Auto Pillarbox
Closed Caption
Front Panel Settings
HDMI Settings
Restore Defaults

HDMI Settings has a sub menu item called Disable Auto Detect which was set to NO; toggling it to Yes, did not make any difference when switching channels.

Phil

I have a Pace RNG110 HD Box. The online user manual isn't too helpful.

Actually, standard def channels should display 480i.

Actually no they display as 480p since they are all digital coming into the box.

-Ken

Actually no they display as 480p since they are all digital coming into the box.

-Ken

When I set the box as "Native" channels 3-60 are 480i

I'm located in Milford, MA and currently receive a substantial number of clear QAM channels (including ESPN, etc...). We're scheduled to lose analog sometime this month, so I plan on relying more on clear QAM in my home as a temporary solution.

Anyone know if there's any scheduled timeframe for Comcast to start encrypting these currently clear channels? Anyone know if they would give notice beforehand?

Can't imagine I'd get a good answer from the Comcast reps.

Thanks

Actually no they display as 480p since they are all digital coming into the box.

-Ken

Maybe in Chelmsford but definitely not in Wayland. :)
My box shows channels<100 as 480i.

Actually no they display as 480p since they are all digital coming into the box.

-Ken

Digital SD isn't 480p. However, the box can be setup to output SD as 480p rather than 480i.

Anyone know if there's any scheduled timeframe for Comcast to start encrypting these currently clear channels? Anyone know if they would give notice beforehand?I've received notice that I will need their equipment by a certain date, but we know that that is just preventative. Do they know, now, on what date that they will actually engage privacy mode? I would believe that they don't, and they surely won't provide a date in advance, because what if they need to change it for some reason? So many customers are just unreasonable people, that there is no real advantage to providing notice of anything in advance, unless required by circumstance or law.

Maybe in Chelmsford but definitely not in Wayland. :)
My box shows channels<100 as 480i.

Out of curiosity, what box do you have that shows the "resolution". Mine just has an idiot light that lights up blue when it's an HD channel. Thanks

We finally got the second letter regarding the digital migration here in Burlington.Some more details, which might be useful for folks who's transitions are scheduled in months past October....

Our transition date is October 20. There are two cut-over dates. The first is October 20, itself, and includes MTV, FX, TNT, E!, Lifetime, TLC, Food Network, TWC, Cartoon, TV Land, Versus, Travel. The second is November 18, and includes everything else between 24 and 98 except QVC and Shop NBC (which will remain as analog).

Out of curiosity, what box do you have that shows the "resolution". Mine just has an idiot light that lights up blue when it's an HD channel. Thanks

Moto DCX3400

Some more details, which might be useful for folks who's transitions are scheduled in months past October....

Our transition date is October 20. There are two cut-over dates. The first is October 20, itself, and includes MTV, FX, TNT, E!, Lifetime, TLC, Food Network, TWC, Cartoon, TV Land, Versus, Travel. The second is November 18, and includes everything else between 24 and 98 except QVC and Shop NBC (which will remain as analog).

I wonder how fast/slow the response is when changing channels with the DTA. This is going to be my wife's number one issue as she does a lot of clicking LOL.

-Ken

No lag on the DTA

My town is due for conversion in November. When might I see more HD?

Out of curiosity, what box do you have that shows the "resolution". Mine just has an idiot light that lights up blue when it's an HD channel. Thanks

I believe any of the Moto DCX or DCH boxes show resolution on front display, the Pace boxes and the older Moto DCT boxes don't.

My town is due for conversion in November. When might I see more HD?

If its the same as for us, 1 week after the first set of channels goes digital.

I'm located in Milford, MA and currently receive a substantial number of clear QAM channels (including ESPN, etc...). We're scheduled to lose analog sometime this month, so I plan on relying more on clear QAM in my home as a temporary solution.

Anyone know if there's any scheduled timeframe for Comcast to start encrypting these currently clear channels? Anyone know if they would give notice beforehand?

Can't imagine I'd get a good answer from the Comcast reps.

Thanks
I got the notice this weekend in the mail that my city will undergo the migration on Oct 20 and Nov 18. I went to the comcast.com/digitalnow site and under the FAQs this is what is said about QAM.

32. Will I need equipment if I have a digital TV with a QAM tuner?
At the completion of the digital upgrade, customers will need equipment on all TVs to receive any channels above the Limited Basic level of service—of course, this is now the case with most video providers, including our satellite and phone competitors. We’re encouraging all customers to avoid any service interruptions by installing and using the equipment provided by Comcast or purchased from their electronics retailer, like a TiVo or CableCardTM enabled device.

My question is how do they define "completion of the digital upgrade"? Is it the completion for a particular municipality or nationwide?

the former

And the encryption, itself, may actually happen later than the dates you've been provided, but they will not happen earlier.

Is comcast still waiting to get the waiver so they can encrypt, or have they gotten it already?

Well, the waiver is actually applied-for by the manufacturers (in this case, Motorola, Cicso, Thompson and Pace), but either way, yes, the waiver has been granted by the FCC for use of privacy mode in DTAs.

http://www.lightreading.com/document.asp?doc_id=180850

Got my Comcast bill today, in it was a notice of all the new channels coming soon. I'm in Millis and have Digital Starter/Preferred/Classic and Sports Entertainment Package.

On Oct 6th I pick up 16 new HD channels (including MLB HD, Cartoon Network HD and Bravo HD), but the big jackpot comes on Nov 11th, when I get about 25 more new HD channels (there is also about 15 new HD premium channels available then as well, HBO, Starz etc which I don't subscribe to).

These new channels include Encore HD, NBA TV HD, NHL Network HD, MTV and VH-1 HD, CBS College Sports Network HD, Comedy Central HD, ESPN U and the Weather Channel HD (Finally!).

Currently all my HD channels are in the 800s, with these new additions look like they'll start around 771 and go up through the low 900's.

All I ask is they can non-HD Weatherscan at 845 so I don't have it in the middle of all my HD channels.

Got my Comcast bill today, in it was a notice of all the new channels coming soon. I'm in Millis and have Digital Starter/Preferred/Classic and Sports Entertainment Package.

On Oct 6th I pick up 16 new HD channels (including MLB HD, Cartoon Network HD and Bravo HD), but the big jackpot comes on Nov 11th, when I get about 25 more new HD channels (there is also about 15 new HD premium channels available then as well, HBO, Starz etc which I don't subscribe to).

These new channels include Encore HD, NBA TV HD, NHL Network HD, MTV and VH-1 HD, CBS College Sports Network HD, Comedy Central HD, ESPN U and the Weather Channel HD (Finally!).


OK so where will be HDNet? HDNet movies? :)


Currently all my HD channels are in the 800s, with these new additions look like they'll start around 771 and go up through the low 900's.

All I ask is they can non-HD Weatherscan at 845 so I don't have it in the middle of all my HD channels.

They STILL do that? with Fios Weatherscan is part of limited basic,and is TWC SD (technically)

Bad news, Mr. Head

Stoopid SD weather channel still in the middle of the HD tier even after the addition of the new channels. Makes absolutely no sense.

Bad news, Mr. Head

Stoopid SD weather channel still in the middle of the HD tier even after the addition of the new channels. Makes absolutely no sense.

Is it really so bad to have one SD channel in the 800's ? I bet Comcast is getting PAID to place the channel in that location.

Is it really so bad to have one SD channel in the 800's ? I bet Comcast is getting PAID to place the channel in that location.

Yes, it really is. Changing the channel to/from HD from/to SD causes a resolution change which takes a second or two. This is very annoying if you like to the quickly scan up/down the HD channels.

Yes, it really is. Changing the channel to/from HD from/to SD causes a resolution change which takes a second or two. This is very annoying if you like to the quickly scan up/down the HD channels.

Agreed. I'm sure bicker will come in towing the official Comcast line.

Actually, in this case, I would have to have put on my Motorola hat, since Comcast doesn't design or manufacture equipment.

Actually, in this case, I would have to have put on my Motorola hat, since Comcast doesn't design or manufacture equipment.

You're suggesting it's the design of the equipment that forces the SD channel to be at that location in the lineup? :confused:

You're suggesting it's the design of the equipment that forces the SD channel to be at that location in the lineup? :confused:

My reading is that bicker is saying that this 1-2 sec delay in switching resolutions is Moto's issue.

By the way, if this SD channel in the 800's bothers you while surfing HD channels just remove it from your lineup. :)

You're suggesting it's the design of the equipment that forces the SD channel to be at that location in the lineup? :confused:No, I'm suggesting that it is the design of the equipment that causes the delay.

In reality, the delay might actually be the fault of the television manufacturer.

Is it the TV manufacturer? It seems that maybe it's HDMI spec, since there has to be a renegotiation back to 480i when you select the SD channel from an HD one. I agree some TV's are worse than others (and some like my Toshiba has a bug where if you switch too fast from HD to SD back to HD before the TV has a chance to renegotiate it might display a black screen and you have to power it off for a full 15 seconds). Anyway, my thought is, would it kill Comcast to put it at either the beginning or end of the HD channel range? Also, someone up thread stated you could remove it from your channel list, how do you do that? I'm assuming it's some hidden command in the cable box to remove a channel.

Is it the TV manufacturer? It seems that maybe it's HDMI spec, since there has to be a renegotiation back to 480i when you select the SD channel from an HD one. I agree some TV's are worse than others (and some like my Toshiba has a bug where if you switch too fast from HD to SD back to HD before the TV has a chance to renegotiate it might display a black screen and you have to power it off for a full 15 seconds). Anyway, my thought is, would it kill Comcast to put it at either the beginning or end of the HD channel range? Also, someone up thread stated you could remove it from your channel list, how do you do that? I'm assuming it's some hidden command in the cable box to remove a channel.

Just put all the HD channels on your favorite list and you will never have to see it again.

No, I'm suggesting that it is the design of the equipment that causes the delay.

In reality, the delay might actually be the fault of the television manufacturer.

Watching different tv's in houses with both fios and comcast, I dont there's any doubt that the delay is the fault of the tv itself

Also, someone up thread stated you could remove it from your channel list, how do you do that? I'm assuming it's some hidden command in the cable box to remove a channel.

Unfortunately there's no way to remove a channel(s) from the current version of the iGuide. The Favorites list a work around, albeit a poor one.

No, I'm suggesting that it is the design of the equipment that causes the delay.

In reality, the delay might actually be the fault of the television manufacturer.

But the poster was complaining about the delay when he surfs up and down the HD lineup. If there's no SD channel in the middle, then the delay isn't going to impact him. That's completely under Comcast's control.

You choose to put all the blame on the service provider; that's your prerogative, but if there was no delay, introduced due to the equipment, then the problem raised would not exist. That's completely under the equipment manufacturer's control. And since we all have different equipment, the equipment manufacturer is the correct direction to direct blame,not the service provider.

Here's the excerpt from my Sept bill for Hopkinton.. Seems like they are adding alot of Spanish Language channels after the transition as well.

I got a new 3400 box, with the new dark silver remote. The AUX button won't light as if it was disabled, so I can't select it to program in my receiver's code. Anyone know how to re-enable it? Or do I need to go swap for a new one?

Why was Red Sox game blacked out today?

Unfortunately there's no way to remove a channel(s) from the current version of the iGuide. The Favorites list a work around, albeit a poor one.

A better solution is to use Tivo/Comcast interface where you can hide selected channels.

I got a new 3400 box, with the new dark silver remote. The AUX button won't light as if it was disabled, so I can't select it to program in my receiver's code. Anyone know how to re-enable it? Or do I need to go swap for a new one?

I think you should replace your remote. AUX button works fine on mine.

Here's the excerpt from my Sept bill for Hopkinton.. Seems like they are adding alot of Spanish Language channels after the transition as well.

Does anyone know if all of the towns in the September digital conversion will be getting the same HD additions? I am in Medway, and I got the notice about the 16 new HD channels in October, but no mention of anything in November yet.

Why was Red Sox game blacked out today?

I was wondering the same thing...

http://mlb.fanhouse.com/2009/09/01/mlb-espn-move-yankees-red-sox-from-yom-kippur-eve/

A better solution is to use Tivo/Comcast interface where you can hide selected channels.

Enough people on here are already complaining about the Moto DVR's instability, don't go telling them to put that thing on the box to increase their frustrations! :eek:

Enough people on here are already complaining about the Moto DVR's instability, don't go telling them to put that thing on the box to increase their frustrations! :eek:

I was just reporting how I do it. I've had Tivo/Comcast since the first day of availability. I am still using it so I guess my level of frustration is not as high as the people you are referring to. :)

Enough people on here are already complaining about the Moto DVR's instability, don't go telling them to put that thing on the box to increase their frustrations! :eek:


Hi Jon

I was the first in my area to get it and I still think it is 100 times better than the Comcast DVR :D:D:D:D

I would NEVER go back !!!!!

Bill

Here's the excerpt from my Sept bill for Hopkinton.. Seems like they are adding alot of Spanish Language channels after the transition as well.
Also interesting that many of the new channels including HD channels are going into the 700's. It took a while, but the World of More is coming.

Mickey

Could someone tell me which local HD channels Comcast carries in Boston? I'm interested in the 'in-the-clear' channels that viewable with a QAM tuner without a Comcast subscription. Thanks.

You choose to put all the blame on the service provider; that's your prerogative, but if there was no delay, introduced due to the equipment, then the problem raised would not exist. That's completely under the equipment manufacturer's control. And since we all have different equipment, the equipment manufacturer is the correct direction to direct blame,not the service provider.

I don't really care one way or the other, just enjoy watching the contortions you'll go through to deflect criticism from Comcast.

Could someone tell me which local HD channels Comcast carries in Boston? I'm interested in the 'in-the-clear' channels that viewable with a QAM tuner without a Comcast subscription. Thanks.Do you mean in Boston (city) itself, or in one of the suburbs? If the latter, which one?

I don't really care one way or the other, just enjoy watching the contortions you'll go through to deflect criticism from Comcast.I couldn't care less about Comcast. I can point you towards some TWC and Cablevision threads where I make the same points, and can probably dig up some Charter and Cox threads as well. The point isn't anything about Comcast. The point is strictly a matter of unfounded expectations, regardless of who or what they're directed at.

Do you mean in Boston (city) itself, or in one of the suburbs? If the latter, which one?

I'm in Jamaica Plain. I just got a big plasma monitor for free. I need to by a tuner and am trying to decide if I should do over-the-air or rely on the QAM.

Just wondering what's available on the QAM vs OTA. I'm also wondering if there is a difference in terms of quality but I guess thats for another area.

Thanks

I cannot help you with the QAM assignments for the Jamaica Plain area, sorry. I also don't know what your OTA reception profile is, there, but I suspect it isn't much different from my own here, and AFAIC there is no significant difference between what I get via antenna versus what I get through the cable, except for Channel 56, which is far more reliable through the cable.

I'm located in Milford, MA and currently receive a substantial number of clear QAM channels (including ESPN, etc...). We're scheduled to lose analog sometime this month, so I plan on relying more on clear QAM in my home as a temporary solution.

Anyone know if there's any scheduled timeframe for Comcast to start encrypting these currently clear channels? Anyone know if they would give notice beforehand?

Can't imagine I'd get a good answer from the Comcast reps.

Thanks


Should be around 11/11/2009, tha'st the day we go from 46 HD channels to 88 total HD channels. They are adding 42 HD channels and a bunch of SD channels.

ESPNU HD and Comedy Cemtral HD are the big 2 I am looking foward to.

Just a few questions if you (or someone else) could be so kind.

Is there a full listing of the new channels that will be coming anywhere? - Saw the post with the guys list. So answered this one, the others I'd still like to know if anyone can answer.

Is it for the entirety of Massachusetts (I'm down in Plymouth)?

And is it definitely November 11th?

I've been waiting for MLB Network HD for about 7 months now!

Thanks for the help if you know the answer(s) to these!

The transition is being applied town by town. Surf back a few pages and there is a month by month list, through the towns that they've announced, out into March.

The transition is being applied town by town. Surf back a few pages and there is a month by month list, through the towns that they've announced, out into March.

The conversion list was starting to get buried.

Comcast Digital Conversions Boston Area: Updated list

June : Newburyport, Newbury, West Newbury, Rowley and Ipswich.

September :Ashland, Bellingham, Blackstone, Franklin, Holliston, Hopedale, Hopkinton, Marlboro, Medway, Mendon, Milford, Millis & Plainville

October : Arlington, Belmont, Burlington, Cambridge, Lynnfield, MIT, Nahant, Revere, Peabody, Reading, Saugus, Stoneham Wilmington, Winchester & Woburn

November:Attleboro, Avon, Bridgewater, Brockton, Dighton, East Bridgewater, Easton, Hanson, Holbrook, Mansfield, North Attleboro, Norton, Raynham, Rehoboth, Seekonk, Somerset, Stoughton, Swansea, Taunton, West Bridgewater & Whitman

Andover, Lawrence, Georgetown, Groveland, Haverhill, Methuen, North Andover & North Reading

January 2010:
Acton, Ashburnham, Ashby, Ayer, Baldwinville, Bedford, Bolton, Boxborough, Carlisle, Clinton, Concord, Devens (Ayer) East Templeton, Edgewater Hills, Edgewater Terrance, Fitchburg, Framingham, Gardner, Hanscomb Airforce Base, Hudson, Lancaster, Leominster, Lexington, Lincoln, Littleton, Lunenburg, Maynard, Otter River, Phillipston, Shirley, Southboro, Sterling, Stowe, Sudbury, Templeton, Townsend, West Templeton, Westford, Westminster & Winchendon MA
Chelsea, Everett, Lynn, Malden, Medford, Melrose, Salem, Somerville, Swampscott, Wakefield & Winthrop MA

March 2010:
Billerica, Dracut, Lowell, Chelmsford, Tewksbury, Tyngsborough, Dedham, Sherborn, Waltham, Newton, Watertown, Wellesley, Weston, Wayland, Natick, Needham

LSurpreme, is the list of 55 new HD channels in Hopkington close to what other cities may get? Is Hopkington a 750 or 866 system?

LSurpreme, is the list of 55 new HD channels in Hopkington close to what other cities may get? Is Hopkington a 750 or 866 system?

Yes & 750

Perhaps I missed it, but did anyone have any information on the South Shore area - Hingham, Cohasset, Norwell etc.? I thought I heard Feb/March but don't see it listed here. We don't even have the Interactive TV/Caller ID yet.

Can't wait to hear if April-June has Fall River/ New Bedford in the cards

Could someone please explain the difference between the 750 and 866 systems?

It's the available bandwidth the cable co can use. Old systems only went to 450MHz, newer ones go to 750 or 860MHz, some very new ones cap out at 1000MHz (1GHz). Obviously the higher the limit the more channels they can carry.

It's the available bandwidth the cable co can use. Old systems only went to 450MHz, newer ones go to 750 or 860MHz, some very new ones cap out at 1000MHz (1GHz). Obviously the higher the limit the more channels they can carry.

Thanks for the info, jonwww. How can we find out which system is where?

Just a few questions if you (or someone else) could be so kind.

Is there a full listing of the new channels that will be coming anywhere? - Saw the post with the guys list. So answered this one, the others I'd still like to know if anyone can answer.

Is it for the entirety of Massachusetts (I'm down in Plymouth)?

And is it definitely November 11th?

I've been waiting for MLB Network HD for about 7 months now!

Thanks for the help if you know the answer(s) to these!

They aren't adding MLB Network in HD on the Milford list, they will add it in the Spring before baseball starts again.

Picked up two of the new DCX model DVR’s. Each with the 320GB capacity drives. No problem so far with HDMI handshakes. Only complaint is with the very bright time/channel display, which can’t be adjusted.

Interestingly, the local Comcast office seemed to be very busy, likely due to the upcoming digital conversion with people coming in to pick up their DTA’s and asking a bunch of questions.

Mickey

The conversion list was starting to get buried.

Comcast Digital Conversions Boston Area: Updated list

June : Newburyport, Newbury, West Newbury, Rowley and Ipswich.

September :Ashland, Bellingham, Blackstone, Franklin, Holliston, Hopedale, Hopkinton, Marlboro, Medway, Mendon, Milford, Millis & Plainville

October : Arlington, Belmont, Burlington, Cambridge, Lynnfield, MIT, Nahant, Revere, Peabody, Reading, Saugus, Stoneham Wilmington, Winchester & Woburn

November:Attleboro, Avon, Bridgewater, Brockton, Dighton, East Bridgewater, Easton, Hanson, Holbrook, Mansfield, North Attleboro, Norton, Raynham, Rehoboth, Seekonk, Somerset, Stoughton, Swansea, Taunton, West Bridgewater & Whitman

Andover, Lawrence, Georgetown, Groveland, Haverhill, Methuen, North Andover & North Reading

January 2010:
Acton, Ashburnham, Ashby, Ayer, Baldwinville, Bedford, Bolton, Boxborough, Carlisle, Clinton, Concord, Devens (Ayer) East Templeton, Edgewater Hills, Edgewater Terrance, Fitchburg, Framingham, Gardner, Hanscomb Airforce Base, Hudson, Lancaster, Leominster, Lexington, Lincoln, Littleton, Lunenburg, Maynard, Otter River, Phillipston, Shirley, Southboro, Sterling, Stowe, Sudbury, Templeton, Townsend, West Templeton, Westford, Westminster & Winchendon MA
Chelsea, Everett, Lynn, Malden, Medford, Melrose, Salem, Somerville, Swampscott, Wakefield & Winthrop MA

March 2010:
Billerica, Dracut, Lowell, Chelmsford, Tewksbury, Tyngsborough, Dedham, Sherborn, Waltham, Newton, Watertown, Wellesley, Weston, Wayland, Natick, Needham


February 2010:
Barnstable, Brewster, Chatham, Dennis, Eastham, Harwich, Mashpee, Orleans, Provincetown, Truro, Wellfleet, Yarmouth

Allenstown, Antrim, Boscawen, Bow, Canterbury, Chichester, Concord, Deering, Epsom, Henniker, Hillsboro, Hopkinton, Loudon, Pembroke, Weare

Digital Economy is Basic Cable (i.e. locals & public access) plus these channels, you also get their HD counterparts

A&E
AMC
Animal Planet
Cartoon
CNN
Comedy
Discovery
Disney
E!
Food
Fox News
Hallmark
History
Lifetime
Music Choice
Spike
Tru Tv
TV Land
USA
C-SPAN
C-SPAN 2
EWTN
HSN
QVC
TWC
BCTVResurrecting this....

Does anyone else have Digital Economy in this area? I know that every place I've seen it described it says that Animal Planet is included, but it appears that this is not the case. (I haven't called Comcast to check, because I don't care much about it, and it is the only channel that we're "supposed" to have that we don't.)

Also: At least here, History Channel is not part of Digital Economy (in the publish materials -- not just in with regard to what channels I get). There may have been other changes / other variations. The list I have here is: A&E, AMC, Animal Planet, BET, Cartoon Network, CNN, Comedy Central, Discovery, Disney, E!, Food Network, Fox News, Nickelodeon, Lifetime, Spike TV, USA, Weather Channel.

Another note, relevant to folks who's head-ends are like mine: This kind of slipped my mind as I was thinking through my service downgrade... With Digital Starter (i.e., all expanded basic channels) there is no filter placed on your line, so you get all expanded basic channels on all applicable tuners in your home (the nature of the applicable tuners switching from analog to digital on the Project Calvary transition date(s)). With Digital Economy, the filter is placed on your line, and you get none of the expanded basic channels on applicable tuners unless the tuners have CableCARD installed.

Not a big deal for me. One of my non-CableCARD tuners is in a TiVo S2, so I can just record what I want on my TiVo S3 (with CableCARD) and transfer it. So far none of the shows we watch on the S2 are copy protected. For the other TiVo, an S1, we only have ever recorded local channels, and The Weather Channel. (My wife. What can I tell you?) So we lose The Weather Channel on the S1 with the downgrade to Digital Economy.

Resurrecting this....

Does anyone else have Digital Economy in this area? I know that every place I've seen it described it says that Animal Planet is included, but it appears that this is not the case. (I haven't called Comcast to check, because I don't care much about it, and it is the only channel that we're "supposed" to have that we don't.)

There are some areas that do not get the HD version of AP & History due contractual reason

These channels come with Digital Economy plus the basic channels (in most areas):

HSN
Disney
E!
USA
Lifetime
A&E
Discovery Channel
Food Network
Fox News
CNN
CSPAN
TWC
Spike TV
AMC
Cartoon Network
Comedy Central
Animal Planet
TV Land
History
QVC
TruTV
Hallmark Channel
EWTN
CSPAN2
CatholicTV

Thanks for the info, jonwww. How can we find out which system is where?

Not sure where you'd find that out, maybe stop & talk to one of the maintenance techs (bucket truck guys) as they'd have the best idea for their area. Good chance payments center workers and even most of the field techs that deal with customers wouldn't know. I think most systems in New England were originally spec'd as 750MHz, although there are channels up close to 800MHz.

There are some areas that do not get the HD version of AP & History due contractual reason
Someone from Comcast called to collect feedback on my service change today, and I asked about this and she confirmed that this is one of those areas of which you referred.

I called comcast today and they told me that my account was DTA ready as of the 28th of Sept. That is very good news. that means it is close. I am in concord NH.

February 2010:
Barnstable, Brewster, Chatham, Dennis, Eastham, Harwich, Mashpee, Orleans, Provincetown, Truro, Wellfleet, Yarmouth



Funny that the cape is converting in the middle of the winter. I can see all the clueless cottage owners in June scrambling when their guests complain of no tv reception.

Picked up two of the new DCX model DVR’s. Each with the 320GB capacity drives. No problem so far with HDMI handshakes. Only complaint is with the very bright time/channel display, which can’t be adjusted.

Interestingly, the local Comcast office seemed to be very busy, likely due to the upcoming digital conversion with people coming in to pick up their DTA’s and asking a bunch of questions.

Mickey

Does anyone know which offices have the 320GB DCX boxes in stock? I recently got a 250GB DCX box in Bellingham, but I am having a few issues with it. The biggest problem is that sometimes the DVR functions don't work on live TV. The on screen display shows that you are paused, rewinding or fast forwarding, but the TV show just continues to play on live. I would like to get the extra storage of the 320GB box when I swap this one out.

Funny that the cape is converting in the middle of the winter. I can see all the clueless cottage owners in June scrambling when their guests complain of no tv reception.I suspect that clueless cottage owners are continually scrambling, because cluelessness causes no end of oversights. At least this way, cottage owners have months to get their act in order, instead of having to find a way to slip in while the cleaners are in to install the DTAs.

[QUOTE=kenvt;17276789]Funny that the cape is converting in the middle of the winter. I can see all the clueless cottage owners in June scrambling when their guests complain of no tv reception.[/QUOT

Least they own a cottage, which is more than I can say.

Another note, relevant to folks who's head-ends are like mine: This kind of slipped my mind as I was thinking through my service downgrade... With Digital Starter (i.e., all expanded basic channels) there is no filter placed on your line, so you get all expanded basic channels on all applicable tuners in your home (the nature of the applicable tuners switching from analog to digital on the Project Calvary transition date(s)). With Digital Economy, the filter is placed on your line, and you get none of the expanded basic channels on applicable tuners unless the tuners have CableCARD installed.


FILTER? What does this filter look like? I was just upgraded to the digital preferred for a 2 yr deal BUT the installer wanted to go into my basement. I told him there is NO tv down there but he claimed he had to check my lines. I found a small device installed that has ground to my electric box installed. is that a FILTER?

What is the difference in price between a standard def box and the HD box (non dvr) on the first set ? I'm asking for a friend, I already have HD DVR.

What is the difference in price between a standard def box and the HD box (non dvr) on the first set ? I'm asking for a friend, I already have HD DVR.

I understand the setbox are FREE included in the cost of any package you get, plus 2 DTA's that will ONLY get basic cable stations.

FILTER? What does this filter look like? I was just upgraded to the digital preferred for a 2 yr deal BUT the installer wanted to go into my basement. I told him there is NO tv down there but he claimed he had to check my lines. I found a small device installed that has ground to my electric box installed. is that a FILTER?Here, the filter is installed outside the customer premises. The only time they would install it inside is if you and your neighbor share the same drop from the street.

You wouldn't have a filter with Digital Preferred (here).

My service change was a downgrade, and the tech still wanted to perform a test. There is an automated program they have, I don't remember the name but it was clearly just making sure the levels were okay.

FILTER? What does this filter look like? I was just upgraded to the digital preferred for a 2 yr deal BUT the installer wanted to go into my basement. I told him there is NO tv down there but he claimed he had to check my lines. I found a small device installed that has ground to my electric box installed. is that a FILTER?

The filter should look like a metal tube 3-4 inches long connecting the box in your basement with the cable going into your cable box.

Does anyone know which offices have the 320GB DCX boxes in stock? I recently got a 250GB DCX box in Bellingham, but I am having a few issues with it. The biggest problem is that sometimes the DVR functions don't work on live TV. The on screen display shows that you are paused, rewinding or fast forwarding, but the TV show just continues to play on live. I would like to get the extra storage of the 320GB box when I swap this one out.

To my knowledge, only 250GB are ordered

Cablevision in NY is asking for a waiver from the fcc to encrypt ALL clear QAM channels:

http://www.engadgethd.com/2009/09/24/cablevision-asks-fcc-for-a-waiver-to-encrypt-all-clear-qam-chann/

To my knowledge, only 250GB are ordered

Mickey Gee got two of them. Check out his post here http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=17272435&postcount=5717

The filter should look like a metal tube 3-4 inches long connecting the box in your basement with the cable going into your cable box.


From what I can tell its looks to be a grounding device, similar to this pic below

http://www.tvantenna.com/products/installation/grounding/GRB-1.jpg

I got a little curious after reading the post about filters.

Thanks for the information!

Mickey Gee got two of them. Check out his post here http://www.avsforum.com/avs-vb/showpost.php?p=17272435&postcount=5717
According to both the tag on the bottom of the box and also the internal menu (accessed by turning the box off, pressing OK, scrolling down to HDD, arrowing across to the next screen, and then down to the next screen), they both say 320. I haven't tried to fill them up yet, but that is what it says.

Mickey

The filter should look like a metal tube 3-4 inches long connecting the box in your basement with the cable going into your cable box.

This talk about filters is a little misleading. There are FILTERS that used to be used to block noise from the return, they don't block any channels, for the most part Comcast does not use these anymore. There are TRAPS that are installed to block out channels (the forward signal). There is a trap installed for dig economy and B1, not a filter. Some people use the general term of filter for any device like that but it definitely causes confusion. They look very similar but if you read the side of one it's stamped with what channels/frequencies are blocked out (or let through).

Sorry for the confusion: I'm definitely talking about traps.

Note, though, that at least here, it seems that there are not separate traps for Digital Economy and Basic. If you have Expanded Basic, Digital Starter or better, you currently get "all" expanded basic channels via analog in-the-clear. Regardless of whether you have Digital Economy or Basic, you get none of the expanded basic channels via analog in-the-clear -- the entirety of that service is trapped, even if you have Digital Economy. The "half" of expanded basic that is included with Digital Economy is only available via QAM.

To my knowledge, only 250GB are ordered
LS,

I have never known you to be wrong before, but I have two 320's. Maybe you should double check your source. Please let us know what you find out.

Mickey

Note, though, that at least here, it seems that there are not separate traps for Digital Economy and Basic.

The same trap is used for both. Dig economy requires a box to pick up the channels not in the basic tier, or for the time being a QAM tuner. The QAM tuner unfortunately probably won't work very well after they encrypt the Exp channels though.

Picked up two of the new DCX model DVR’s. Each with the 320GB capacity drives. No problem so far with HDMI handshakes. Only complaint is with the very bright time/channel display, which can’t be adjusted.

Interestingly, the local Comcast office seemed to be very busy, likely due to the upcoming digital conversion with people coming in to pick up their DTA’s and asking a bunch of questions.

Mickey

Which office was this?

LS,

I have never known you to be wrong before, but I have two 320's. Maybe you should double check your source. Please let us know what you find out.

Mickey

Mickey,

How can you tell which size drive is in the new box?

-Ken

The conversion list was starting to get buried.

Comcast Digital Conversions Boston Area: Updated list

June : Newburyport, Newbury, West Newbury, Rowley and Ipswich.

September :Ashland, Bellingham, Blackstone, Franklin, Holliston, Hopedale, Hopkinton, Marlboro, Medway, Mendon, Milford, Millis & Plainville

October : Arlington, Belmont, Burlington, Cambridge, Lynnfield, MIT, Nahant, Revere, Peabody, Reading, Saugus, Stoneham Wilmington, Winchester & Woburn

November:Attleboro, Avon, Bridgewater, Brockton, Dighton, East Bridgewater, Easton, Hanson, Holbrook, Mansfield, North Attleboro, Norton, Raynham, Rehoboth, Seekonk, Somerset, Stoughton, Swansea, Taunton, West Bridgewater & Whitman

Andover, Lawrence, Georgetown, Groveland, Haverhill, Methuen, North Andover & North Reading

January 2010:
Acton, Ashburnham, Ashby, Ayer, Baldwinville, Bedford, Bolton, Boxborough, Carlisle, Clinton, Concord, Devens (Ayer) East Templeton, Edgewater Hills, Edgewater Terrance, Fitchburg, Framingham, Gardner, Hanscomb Airforce Base, Hudson, Lancaster, Leominster, Lexington, Lincoln, Littleton, Lunenburg, Maynard, Otter River, Phillipston, Shirley, Southboro, Sterling, Stowe, Sudbury, Templeton, Townsend, West Templeton, Westford, Westminster & Winchendon MA
Chelsea, Everett, Lynn, Malden, Medford, Melrose, Salem, Somerville, Swampscott, Wakefield & Winthrop MA

March 2010:
Billerica, Dracut, Lowell, Chelmsford, Tewksbury, Tyngsborough, Dedham, Sherborn, Waltham, Newton, Watertown, Wellesley, Weston, Wayland, Natick, Needham

Who do I have to bribe to move Wellesley sooner than March? Sheesh that's a long time to wait. I understand that the roll out needs to be in stages but the pace does not seem very aggressive to me.

Mickey,

How can you tell which size drive is in the new box?

-Ken
There are two indicators: (1) on one of the tags on the bottom of the box, and (2) an internal menu which is accessed by turning the box off, pressing OK, arrowing down to the HDD line, arrowing across to the next screen, and then down to the next screen.

Mickey

Which office was this?
Mildford, Mass., which happens to be your local office. The DCX boxes are generally in short supply, so YMMV.

Mickey

Anyone please check if you have My Network TV available in Southern New England or anywhere in Massachusetts.

i checked this morning its a blank channel code which might say MyNtv or MnTv when its fully updated later today with To Be announced listed throughout on Channel 292

Can't wait to finally watch smackdown at 8pm instead of on the Rebroadcast at 11:35 on Providence WNAC. :D

There are two indicators: (1) on one of the tags on the bottom of the box, and (2) an internal menu which is accessed by turning the box off, pressing OK, arrowing down to the HDD line, arrowing across to the next screen, and then down to the next screen.

Mickey

Correct. I just picked up a 320GB DCX box. Thanks Mickey.

Anyone please check if you have My Network TV available in Southern New England or anywhere in Massachusetts.

i checked this morning its a blank channel code which might say MyNtv or MnTv when its fully updated later today with To Be announced listed throughout on Channel 292

Can't wait to finally watch smackdown at 8pm instead of on the Rebroadcast at 11:35 on Providence WNAC. :D

I am getting it on 292, says TBA for the guide but the MyRi Programing is there now.

I am actually bummed out by this, I do not believe we are going to get a HD feed , I rather have Smackdown at 11:35/DVRed in HD then Smackdown at 8 in SD.

I have some problems with my Comcast DVR service and I am looking for feedback on the Tivo service. With the Comcast regular DVR software:

- Series recordings record all episodes, not just the "new" ones as I have specified in the series settings
- I cannot cancel sequential recordings. That is, when I look at my scheduled recordings, I usually see something scheduled that is from a previous season or that is from earlier in the same season. Marathons are the worst...it schedules every episode to be recorded. Say there are recordings scheduled at 1,2,3,4,5,6,7 and 8 PM. I cannot cancel all of the recordings, or even cancel any 2 in a row. That is, the best I can do is to cancel 1,3,5, and 7. If I try to cancel 2 in a row, it will reset one of them to be recorded again.

Does anyone else have this issue? I have had this problem with a 160 GB 3416 box and now with both the 250GB and 320GB DCX boxes. Is it the Motorola/Comcast software that is causing this? Does the Tivo software fix these issues? I really don't want to pay another $3 a month, but it may just be worth it in the end. Any info will be appreciated.