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Motorola 34xx &64xx DVR "Official Thread"

407K views 2K replies 397 participants last post by  TNO821 
#1 ·
Just wanted to start a thread similar to the Moxi BMC90xx for people to put their questions and answers for Motorola DCT and DCH DVR boxes. With these boxes the last two numbers are indicative of Hard drive size as so:


xx08 = 80 gig

xx12 = 120 gig

xx16 = 160 gig


The majority of Motorola DVRs will be one of the following:

Motorola DCT 34xx
Motorola DCT 64xx
Motorola DCH 34xx
Motorola DCH 64xx


Other Usefull Links
TV Guide "I-guide" interactive Demo
Charter Remote Page
Motorola's Digital Video information Section

**To my knowledge no system has enabled the USB or eSATA ports on these DVRs for external hard drives.**

Please Note: This thread is not in any way, shape or form, official representation for Charter Communications. All opinions are those of the respective posters etc. This thread does not encourage any activities that may be construed as Hacking or Cable Thieft.


This is by no means a Charter only thread
 
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#152 ·
I'm in the Maryville, Il. Charter service area. I called Charter to upgrade to

the DCH 6416 from the DCH 6200 so I could record programs. I was told

Charter don't have the DCH 6416. Any idea whats going on. I'm well satisfied

with the reception from the DCH 6200, I just to be able to record.

Thanks for you service.
 
#153 ·

Quote:
Originally Posted by AJ. /forum/post/12217082


I'm in the Maryville, Il. Charter service area. I called Charter to upgrade to

the DCH 6416 from the DCH 6200 so I could record programs. I was told

Charter don't have the DCH 6416. Any idea whats going on. I'm well satisfied

with the reception from the DCH 6200, I just to be able to record.

Thanks for you service.

Some Markets don't have DVR service yet, I know much of Coastal NC is that way, however you may have also gotten a CSR who doesn't know jack. Try again and just ask for DVR service - you should get a 6416 as we didn't launch any 12s (that I know of) and Moxi has become rare enough that most people have to ask for it
 
#154 ·
I have a DCT3416 and was wondering if anyone knows if it supports discrete power commands from a Harmony remote? I was thinking of getting one, but was thinking how it turns itself on when it records, so if I tried to turn it on when it was already on, it would turn off. Discrete power codes would solve this.
 
#156 ·

Quote:
Originally Posted by ryknoll3 /forum/post/12230159


I have a DCT3416 and was wondering if anyone knows if it supports discrete power commands from a Harmony remote? I was thinking of getting one, but was thinking how it turns itself on when it records, so if I tried to turn it on when it was already on, it would turn off. Discrete power codes would solve this.

If you are worried about your DVR being interrupted while recording.....don't worry....it will still record your show(s) without any issues. I have the Harmony 880 remote and have the same cable box as you. When I hit the "Watch TV" button, everything comes on for me (even if the cable box is on already recording - it will ask me if I want to continue recording and swap to the other tuner)


HTH
 
#157 ·
No, I know it won't disrupt my recordings, as it always asked for confirmation before you change channels or turn the DVR off. I want to make sure that when the DVR is on after it records something, when I hit the activity to watch TV, that since the box was on, it doesn't turn it off. Discrete power commands send only the command you need, on, or off, instead of a toggle, so if the DVR is already on, the remote won't shut it off. I have a much cheaper remote that can be set up to turn everything on, but if something's already on, or already off, it gets everything all out of sync. I wanted to know if the Harmony has the discrete power codes for the 3416,
 
#158 ·

Quote:
Originally Posted by ryknoll3 /forum/post/12240196


No, I know it won't disrupt my recordings, as it always asked for confirmation before you change channels or turn the DVR off. I want to make sure that when the DVR is on after it records something, when I hit the activity to watch TV, that since the box was on, it doesn't turn it off. Discrete power commands send only the command you need, on, or off, instead of a toggle, so if the DVR is already on, the remote won't shut it off. I have a much cheaper remote that can be set up to turn everything on, but if something's already on, or already off, it gets everything all out of sync. I wanted to know if the Harmony has the discrete power codes for the 3416,


Yes, it does have the discrete codes. What we are saying here is that there is little reason to turn the 3416 off at all. I have my Harmony set up to disregard the power button on the Motorola. So, when I turn off the 'TV', the Harmony shuts the TV off, and the Denon receiver off, but leaves the DVR on.
 
#159 ·

Quote:
Originally Posted by bobby94928 /forum/post/12242772


Yes, it does have the discrete codes. What we are saying here is that there is little reason to turn the 3416 off at all. I have my Harmony set up to disregard the power button on the Motorola. So, when I turn off the 'TV', the Harmony shuts the TV off, and the Denon receiver off, but leaves the DVR on.

Probably not a bad idea to leave the 3416 on since the hard drive runs continuously anyway. Or at least mine does.
 
#160 ·
Moto DCT3416 series recording question

I am using this box with Charter in Stoughton, WI. The problem I am having is that when setting a series recording for an HD channel it invariably records the show on the SD channel.


For example channel 5 is the NBC SD channel and 738 is the NBC HD channel. If I set up the series recording for a show on channel 738 on Tue at 8:00 the box will record the correct show but on channel 5.


I am probably setting something wrong. Anyone has had a similar experience?


Posted this as a separate thread as well. Thanks.
 
#161 ·

Quote:
Originally Posted by CharterJames /forum/post/12067220


There's a known TVG issue with Guide version A24.x (which all Charter and most other MSOs are on) - A25 is in testing but it's roll out depends on VOD side-applications - for example my market uses CCOR and the CCOR application for TVG A25 isn't fully tested and ready yet.


The bug essentually makes the box not record whenever the programming is duplicated on another channel (and the metadata uses the same program id) I've found setting the box to record the series on all channels will usually make it pick one if your completely missing the series and setting up manual recordings usually works as well.


It might not be as prevelant on another box, but it can happen on any DCT / DCH (Iguide) based DVR. So unless you swap over to a Moxi, you're probably going to see that issue.

I see. Time for Tivo. James, how is Charter lately about installing Cable cards?


Thanks.
 
#162 ·

Quote:
Originally Posted by CharterJames /forum/post/12067220


There's a known TVG issue with Guide version A24.x (which all Charter and most other MSOs are on) - A25 is in testing but it's roll out depends on VOD side-applications - for example my market uses CCOR and the CCOR application for TVG A25 isn't fully tested and ready yet.


The bug essentually makes the box not record whenever the programming is duplicated on another channel (and the metadata uses the same program id) I've found setting the box to record the series on all channels will usually make it pick one if your completely missing the series and setting up manual recordings usually works as well.


It might not be as prevelant on another box, but it can happen on any DCT / DCH (Iguide) based DVR. So unless you swap over to a Moxi, you're probably going to see that issue.

I have been having this same issue. My local (Kalamazoo, MI) Charter representative indicated that a new DVR would fix the problem. Intuitively, this sound incorrect. Assuming that I was to replace my existing DCH 6416 with the same model would that fix the HD recording issue?


Has there been any indication of when the new version of the I-Guide will be released and rolled out by Charter?


Thanks to CharterJames for all your valuable posts!
 
#163 ·
My 6412 DVR with DVI is connected to DVI on my TV, and the resolution is set to 1080i, I used to change it to 720p occasionally, but have left it at 1080i for a while; now recently, the menu won't allow a change.


Also, when I sometimes move the DVR to an HDMI TV, using DVI-HDMI cable, the resolution is automatically changed to 720p, and again, it won't allow a change. I read that this can sometimes happen with DVI-HDMI cables, (handshaking issue), so I could try Component, and hope it sets it to 1080i, but still the resolution should be able to be changed as it used to be.


Does anyone else have this anomaly on their DVR?

If so, is Motorola working on a firmware fix for this?
 
#164 ·

Quote:
Originally Posted by Alric /forum/post/12250659


Moto DCT3416 series recording question

I am using this box with Charter in Stoughton, WI. The problem I am having is that when setting a series recording for an HD channel it invariably records the show on the SD channel.


For example channel 5 is the NBC SD channel and 738 is the NBC HD channel. If I set up the series recording for a show on channel 738 on Tue at 8:00 the box will record the correct show but on channel 5.


I am probably setting something wrong. Anyone has had a similar experience?


Posted this as a separate thread as well. Thanks.

It sounds like in the advanced options you've elected for it to record on any channels the program is on - if not then you're bitten by the A24 bug too -


With I-Guide A24.x the recording options are handled by program tags - apparently even if the show is on a different channel, it it's the same show it has the same tag - as such the box can frequently screw up and either not record at all or record the incorrect channel.


I have this issue in my market particularly with CBS - the local SD CBS doesn't like to record Series - we have another CBS (out of market) which will do series just fine, as well as an HD which does - but for some reason the local SD doesn't.


Workarounds -

Try telling it to record that program on "All channels" - this should get it to default to one of the channels


If you absolutely want one particular program from one particular channel - start manually telling it to record instead of series recordings - it's annoying, but so far in my case it works.



A25 resolves this problem and to answer other posts there's no set schedule for deployment - primarly because we also have to have matching VOD applications for A25. I know my market won't see this till at least Q1 of 2008 as our VOD application is taking longer than other vendors.
 
#165 ·

Quote:
Originally Posted by Alric /forum/post/12250681


I see. Time for Tivo. James, how is Charter lately about installing Cable cards?


Thanks.

Depends on the tech, the office and the Staff - if you were in my market I'd make sure you were taken care of (I've done several SIIIs) but it might take several calls and failures of other techs before they'd reached me.


If you go with TIVO here's my advice


1) When calling if the CSR gives you any flack about supporting TIVO just request a supervisor and let him know you're requesting 2 cable cards to be installed for your cable card device. (CSRs sometime tend to act like deer in headlights when confronted with things they don't understand... so frequently the less you tell them, the more likely you'll get what you need)


2) Have the TIVO connected and go ahead and do the initial programming for the zip code and channel guides (you'll have to redo these later, but it will make the cable install go better)


3) Do the CableCards 1 at a time - resist the urge to do them both at one time - trust me on this - this is where 90% of all techs fail.


process for install -


Insert Card - TIVO should go to cable card screen upon detection


Get the Card ID, Host ID and Data ID from the diagnostics screen


tech will need to call these in with the card for Validation -


someone in ops will send a cold init to the card (and hopefully put in the validation information correctly) - the TIVO usually gives an error (406 I think) which indicates it cannot reboot - this is normal. - after about 5 minutes you should be able to test the card and view your channels


repeat the process for the second card.






Cablecards are a mixed lot - we are required to support them - however at the same time, we are not required to support the equipment you buy to USE them. CableCards are made in different lots with different firmwares, some work better on some models than others. Most boxes should work on the newest cards without issue, but there are always exceptions.


Be prepared to get to know any cable card equipment you buy, you'll need to know how to troubleshoot it etc because all a tech can really do is insert cards, call in the information and check for signal problems.


If a cable card install doesn't work, request a tech hook up a box to verify that signal levels are good and you should be able to get a clear picture on your channels.


The good news is, generally once it's up and working, it stays that way!
 
#166 ·

Quote:
Originally Posted by QZ1 /forum/post/12252136


My 6412 DVR with DVI is connected to DVI on my TV, and the resolution is set to 1080i, I used to change it to 720p occasionally, but have left it at 1080i for a while; now recently, the menu won't allow a change.


Also, when I sometimes move the DVR to an HDMI TV, using DVI-HDMI cable, the resolution is automatically changed to 720p, and again, it won't allow a change. I read that this can sometimes happen with DVI-HDMI cables, (handshaking issue), so I could try Component, and hope it sets it to 1080i, but still the resolution should be able to be changed as it used to be.


Does anyone else have this anomaly on their DVR?

If so, is Motorola working on a firmware fix for this?

Your changing the resolution on the box (power off, hit menu) correct?

Generally the only time a Moto box will change the resolution automatically is when the channel is set up in a different native resolution -


Example - I keep my box on 1080i - whenever I tune to SD, my TV will show the channel is in 480i - if I flip to most my HDs they will say 1080i unless I hit one of the ESPNs which are natively in 720p
 
#167 ·
The "record in all channels" option does not fix the problem for me. Only the SD version is being recorded. I am glad to see Charter has improved its procedures for installing Cablecards. I called in for an appt and found no resistance. When the HD Tivo initially came out I was given stern responses about Charter not (illegally) supporting Tivo.


BTW, not you personally James but doesn't Charter management finds a bit embarrassing renting out to customers an HD DVR box that can not schedule HD recordings?



Thanks for your kind and helpful responses in this forum.
 
#168 ·

Quote:
Originally Posted by Alric /forum/post/12257021


The "record in all channels" option does not fix the problem for me. Only the SD version is being recorded. I am glad to see Charter has improved its procedures for installing Cablecards. I called in for an appt and found no resistance. When the HD Tivo initially came out I was given stern responses about Charter not (illegally) supporting Tivo.


BTW, not you personally James but doesn't Charter management finds a bit embarrassing renting out to customers an HD DVR box that can not schedule HD recordings?



Thanks for your kind and helpful responses in this forum.

In general I think most people in Tech Ops who are aware of the TV guide bugs are not too thrilled at the QA coming from TV Guide, it seems like every version since the intial launch of the I-Guide platform (compared to the previous "Blue" guide) has been riddled with bugs. The hardware is great, but I-guide is killing it. I'm not sure if it's reached critical embarrassment point - but I know there's a growing sentiment amoung tech ops management that these problems should never been seen outside of a test lab.


I do my best to help out
 
#169 ·

Quote:
Originally Posted by CharterJames /forum/post/12257011


Your changing the resolution on the box (power off, hit menu) correct?

Generally the only time a Moto box will change the resolution automatically is when the channel is set up in a different native resolution -


Example - I keep my box on 1080i - whenever I tune to SD, my TV will show the channel is in 480i - if I flip to most my HDs they will say 1080i unless I hit one of the ESPNs which are natively in 720p

Right, I am talking about the box resolution. I am not talking about the channels' resolutions; the Moto boxes don't offer native output, anyway. It is either all 1080i or 720p, exept for the option of 4:3 Override, which I have set to 480i. The point is in the user settings, when the cursor is moved to the resolution line, pressing ok or moving the arrow to the right or left doesn't do anything anymore to allow for a change. Any ideas?
 
#170 ·
Any updates on eSATA functionality? A few specific questions:


- Does/will eSATA work only with the DCT6416, or does/will it also work for the 6412?


- What is the most recent "phase" and software version for the DCT6412, and how do I know if I have them?


- If I can get eSATA expansion enabled, will I still be able to record my DVR recordings to PC using firewire (capDVHS)?


- Any lists of eSATA drives compatible with the DCT64xx?
 
#171 ·

Quote:
Originally Posted by QZ1 /forum/post/12261696


Right, I am talking about the box resolution. I am not talking about the channels' resolutions; the Moto boxes don't offer native output, anyway. It is either all 1080i or 720p, exept for the option of 4:3 Override, which I have set to 480i. The point is in the user settings, when the cursor is moved to the resolution line, pressing ok or moving the arrow to the right or left doesn't do anything anymore to allow for a change. Any ideas?

If it's not allowing a change I'd say there's either an issue in the hardware or an issue in the firmware, I'll PM you with a trick to force a wipe and reload of the box.


EDIT

I tried PMing you - can't do that.

Email me at firstname.lastname@chartercom.com for instructions.
 
#172 ·

Quote:
Originally Posted by mirak /forum/post/12264941


Any updates on eSATA functionality? A few specific questions:


- Does/will eSATA work only with the DCT6416, or does/will it also work for the 6412?


- What is the most recent "phase" and software version for the DCT6412, and how do I know if I have them?


- If I can get eSATA expansion enabled, will I still be able to record my DVR recordings to PC using firewire (capDVHS)?


- Any lists of eSATA drives compatible with the DCT64xx?

So far no update.

If the last firmware update was any indication all the DCH DVRs will run on the same firmware and all the DCT DVRs will run on it's own set of firmware, it's not likely they'll put on feature on one and not the other (As the 6416 and the 3416 are on both formats and the 6412 uses the same base firmware as the 6416)


eSATA should not affect Firewire. Phase is generally hardware - the latest and greatest for 64xx series would be the DCH 6416 (I don't think they've had to do a phase II of this one yet) Firmware wise, that depends on VOD vendor and Tv Guide version


As I have not heard of any system offering eSata I wouldn't know of any resources for "prefered" drives.
 
#173 ·
Great information so far....I run my 3416 through my receiver with hdmi. When I go into fast forward, or come out of fast fast forward in a recording, I hear a popping noise from the surround sound speakers. A second issue is that sometimes when it comes out of fast forward, the center channel (or possibly all three front channels) are at a lower level.


Any ideas of what might be causing this? Any settings on the DVR or even the AVR that I should be looking at?


Thanks
 
#174 ·
My DCT6412 doesn't have a SATA port, so I guess Cox Kansas has not rolled out the latest version yet. I see no point in pushing for an upgrade until SATA expansion is enabled. I've been happy with everything I've got except for the s..l..o..w menus and puny capacity.
 
#175 ·

Quote:
Originally Posted by IslandHT /forum/post/12267446


Great information so far....I run my 3416 through my receiver with hdmi. When I go into fast forward, or come out of fast fast forward in a recording, I hear a popping noise from the surround sound speakers. A second issue is that sometimes when it comes out of fast forward, the center channel (or possibly all three front channels) are at a lower level.


Any ideas of what might be causing this? Any settings on the DVR or even the AVR that I should be looking at?


Thanks

That may well be something with how the audio is being processed, I know I've had alot of audio pops like that using my old KLH receiver on optical here in the office, but I don't have that problem with my newer pioneer receiver on the same box - then again it could be the audio settings - try changing your compression rate and see if your receiver finds it easier to handle a different compression level
 
#176 ·

Quote:
Originally Posted by CharterJames /forum/post/12217132


...and Moxi has become rare enough that most people have to ask for it

First, thanks for sharing so much knowledge and help here, James. It's appreciated.


Regardig Moxi, I probably have missed seeing the info somewhere, but what is the future of Moxi and Charter? I'm in Southern IL about 60 miles east of St. Louis, and I've had my Moxi box for over two years now. After that software update some time ago, I like it! I don't want to lose it.


On another topic, is there any news on being able to schedule recordings remotely via the Web?
 
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