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Thread: CableCARD - Is the Trouble Worth It? |
    
New member Username: Matrix1221
Post Number: 2
Registered: Jun-05
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| Posted on Thursday, June 23, 2005 - 04:17 pm: |
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OK - I have a brand new 42" LG DU-42PY10X Built-in Tuner thats accepts the CableCARD and i have had 4 techs and still counting from Adelphia that have no clue what the card is and how it works. The last tech came and installed the card(Scientifc Atlantic PowerKEY) and after much prompting from some techie at corp he got it up and running. I saw my premium channels, HD channels all great...or so I thought. Overnightthe TV GUIDE listing previews feature that comes with my TV no longer works with cableCard and signal started to come and go. Changing chanels is a lottery, it skips from Chanel 16 to 467 nothing in between and sometimes we get a signal sometimes we don't. The techs though it was a damaged card but after 4 I am not sure. The minute I pull the card out the TV goes back to normal. The card even "locks up" my TV. I literally have to power down the TV in order to get the remote working or even the power button to go on and off. I have a new tech coming next week, however anyone have any other suggestions - should I be looking at a differernt cableCARD? I'd really hate to use a box but will go to one if necessary. |
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Relevant Product Info
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Silver Member Username: Cableguy
Deep in the ...
U.S.
Post Number: 169
Registered: Mar-05
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| Posted on Friday, June 24, 2005 - 08:47 am: |
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Dominique, you need to contact LG about this issue and see if your TV needs a firmware update, I've seen that problem before and the fix was getting the update. |
New member Username: Matrix1221
Post Number: 3
Registered: Jun-05
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| Posted on Monday, June 27, 2005 - 09:28 am: |
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Thanks CG,
Turns out there is a firmware update for this tv & cablecard. Tach is coming out this week - will keep u posted.
Thanks! |
a_day_without_me Unregistered guest |
| Posted on Friday, July 29, 2005 - 01:07 pm: |
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Cablecard is currently a "one way" system... you receive channels, but cannot send signals back such as the guide channel and ordering pay per view. The cable companies currently haven't set up a "two way" system yet.
read at:
http://www.audioholics.com/techtips/specsformats/CableCARDprimer.php
QUOTE---------------------
For now, CableCARD is one-way only, meaning that some services can only be provided through a cable company-provided set-top box:
Pay-Per-View
Interactive Program Guides (most manufacturers compensate by providing their own)
On-Demand with iControl (TWC) or Similar Services
Season Sports Packages (like the NBA League Pass)
Interactive and Enhanced TV Services (like games, interactive news, etc.)
While a two-way CableCARD is currently being developed there is a huge gap between what can be provided by the cable companies and what the CableCARD technology will support. In addition, it is likely that one-way (i.e. all current) CableCARD devices (televisions, custom set-top boxes) will not be able to handle two-way CableCARDs and will need to be redesigned. Does this mean you should wait to purchase these products? Not in my opinion. Since there is no date assigned or even an agreement in place (other than good faith negotiations) it would be silly to let such a tremendous technology go to waste. You can enjoy the best quality offered today and still utilize an inexpensive cable company-provided set-top unit should you require interactive, two-way services.
My guess is that two-way CableCARDs are at least two years away. If we support CableCARD technology now, then we'll only hasten the point at which consumer choice rules and two-way devices are placed into the market.
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Silver Member Username: Kdog044
Post Number: 159
Registered: Feb-05
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| Posted on Friday, July 29, 2005 - 03:54 pm: |
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a_day_without_me,
That article isn't entirely accurate. You can still purchase Pay-Per-View and Sports Packages without a STB but you have to do it the old fashioned way (i.e. telephone call to the cable provider).
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Silver Member Username: Cableguy
Deep in the ...
U.S.
Post Number: 239
Registered: Mar-05
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| Posted on Tuesday, August 02, 2005 - 12:53 pm: |
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Kdog, that isn't true for every provider...not saying you're wrong, just not everybody does that anymore. Most systems require a STB to view PPV, keyword being "most". I do remember back in the late 80's customer's that wanted PPV would have to call at least 4 hours in advance so a tech could run a STB out to the house and hook it up...which in the long run went away because it wasn't user friendly. |
New member Username: Matrix1221
Post Number: 4
Registered: Jun-05
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| Posted on Tuesday, August 02, 2005 - 02:11 pm: |
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ok all would you beleive after my last posting of June 5, to this date I am still awaiting a tech to upgrade my firmware - it seems as if there are no capable technicians in my area to upgrade my LG firmware so i can get the cablecard to work - does anyone have any idea if this is something i can do? |
Silver Member Username: Cableguy
Deep in the ...
U.S.
Post Number: 240
Registered: Mar-05
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| Posted on Tuesday, August 02, 2005 - 04:25 pm: |
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Contact LG directly and voice your complaint. Demand to speak with a supervisor and settle for nothing less then a date within a week of speaking with them. Another option would be answered by you: Did you purchase the TV with a credit card? You always have the option to take this issue up with them, they have lemon laws to protect you. |
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| Posted on Tuesday, August 02, 2005 - 07:49 pm: |
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I have a 42" Sony and have been considering a
cable card. Is it worth it or do these models
experience too many problems with C.C? |
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Silver Member Username: Cableguy
Deep in the ...
U.S.
Post Number: 242
Registered: Mar-05
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| Posted on Wednesday, August 03, 2005 - 07:40 am: |
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tall1,
The only known problem with Sony would be a 161-6 error code which would require you to have the Q-box replaced in your TV, then a call back to your cable company to report the new host pairing information. In all the Sony's I've dealt with they are usually one of the easier to deal with from installation. The bigger question is how patient are you? With the current versions you have no access to PPV or MOD, and in some cases IPG, somewhere down the road a two-way version will be available (could be up to 2 years or longer) So before you invest ask yourself do you really need it now? |
Bronze Member Username: Avernus
Post Number: 34
Registered: Jul-05
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| Posted on Thursday, August 04, 2005 - 05:03 pm: |
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"I have a 42" Sony and have been considering a
cable card. Is it worth it or do these models
experience too many problems with C.C?"
I have the Sony Wega 42" LCD and love cablecard...even without the menu and on demand features..
I'd recommend getting it even if you get a HD box for 6.99, just to get the PIP...since CC is free usually.. |
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| Posted on Thursday, August 04, 2005 - 05:31 pm: |
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I'm not concerned about the PPV or on-screen menus. I'm just looking for better pic quality and getting rid of the box & extra remote. Comcast is scheduled to install CC 8/20. I'll let you know if everything works out. Fingers are crossed |
New member Username: Bobbyk2002
New Orleans,
LA
USA
Post Number: 3
Registered: Nov-05
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| Posted on Tuesday, November 29, 2005 - 06:53 pm: |
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Reading all these posts about people getting CableCards installed for as low as $10 amazes me. We're stuck with Cox Cable here in the New Orleans area. Yes, life goes on in the unflooded suburbs. Cox's customer service has always been bad. A technical support guy from out of state I called when I had internet issues told me they get more complaints about Cox New Orleans than any other area. Anyway, I purchased a 40" Bravia HDTV with the cable card slot. Cox charged me a $55 fee to come out, stick it in, and call the office and read off some numbers to them. That's the installation I paid $55 for?! I could have done that. When I first called to order it, the Customer service rep had no idea what a cable card was. I can't believe they don't train their reps on services they offer. I too was disappointed with the fact that I can't record scrambled channels like HBO using the Cable Card. I weighed the pros and cons of getting the card or going with an STB. I decided despite the $55 "installation" charge, they rent the card for only $1.99/month vs. going down to the Cox office to pick up an STB and a $4.95/month rental charge. In about a year the STB will cost you $60. Renting the Cable Card will cost you $24. So in one year, I'll save $36 over the STB with the card. The $55 "installation" charge will pay for itself in a few more months after that. Oh, I had ordered HBO, the technician said sorry, it wasn't on his work order. You'll have to call the office. I said, well can't you just call? He said, nope, you have to. I called the office. Yes sir, it is on his work order, we'll have someone call you to install it. I said, can't you just activate it? Oh no, I can't do that, someone will have to set up an appointment. I call the next day hoping to get somebody different. She had my nine or whatever HBO channels activated in less than a minute over the phone. They are way overpriced for the lack of service they provide. And the number of HD channel offerings are sparse. But oh they look so good on that Bravia. I hope they start adding more and more HD channels.
I'm going to write Sony and ask if there is anyway they can modify their highly rated Bravia to put some outputs for recording programs. Maybe even retrofit my new set. I doubt that will happen. We'll see though. |
Silver Member Username: Cableguy
Deep in the ...
U.S.
Post Number: 524
Registered: Mar-05
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| Posted on Wednesday, November 30, 2005 - 09:16 am: |
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Puzzled,
Nice post. Glad I don't work for Cox 
It never ceases to amaze me about the common theme in the CC threads, nobody knows anything about these things and lack of customer service skills from certain companies or techs. There is nothing that can't be done by any tech in your house, even if they can't physically do the work, they should at least make the calls to the proper people to ensure your problem is in good hands before they leave. As for the installation charge, $55 does seem a little steep, I guess they're doing the normal charging you for the truck trip + the technicians time. Where I work at, if there is any problems during the installation we waive the installation fee in order to keep the customer happy. That's called good customer service, it's all I know, so I always wonder how other companies survive without recognizing if you waive the install fee, you lose the initial profit for the visit, but you keep a customer happy, who is paying a monthly bill over the long term it makes more money. But hey..... live and learn right? lol
l8r |
Unregistered guest |
| Posted on Saturday, December 10, 2005 - 09:41 pm: |
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Cablcards can be a pain in the but to install, when you get there you never know if the TV is going to operate with the card or not. I've spent 30 min on a card and 8 hrs on a card. What people don't realize is you are throwing an unknown into the equation. A cable box is standard, we know what to expect when we install one of these, i.e. what should happen when everything is done. A TV is different, you have different manufacturers with diffent menus, and different firmware versions on the same tv model even. This is the owners equipment, it is the owners responsibility to understand their TV. We do what we can, but reading the manual to the owner and explaining it is time consuming. Don't get me wrong I do everything I can to help the customer, but the customer needs to help themselves also. Its hjust like a sub complaining of HD channels not filling the whole screen all the time. It can be broadcast in HD but the format is 4:3, or it is 16:9 but the clarity is not there. They thought that The Godfather should be in HD, well the broadcast is in HD and it is 16:9, but do you think that HD cameras were around when it was filmed? There are several different scenarios when it comes to HD programming. People need to educate themselves if they are going to enjoy their equipment to its fullest extent. Oh well I'd better stop for now. Ill ramble more later |
New member Username: Bobbyk2002
New Orleans,
LA
USA
Post Number: 4
Registered: Nov-05
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| Posted on Tuesday, December 13, 2005 - 09:05 am: |
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Re: Cableguy's Reply to my Post about Cable Cards. I had to call Cox Communications New Orleans about a different matter. Why was I charged for internet service when I had just talked with a supervisor about moving in with relatives from my flooded home to a home where they had a home network setup and only required one internet account. I pay the owner 1/2 their internet bill. They will get back to me within two weeks. As far as the $55 cable card installation fee. I finally got them to give me $20 off for giving me conflicting information about when a technician would arrive. We had one for the cable card install (a fee involved), and an internet technician for a technical problem. (They got the MAC ID numbers wrong and couldn't recognize our new modem.) Even the technician had to repeat and correct the office twice. He looked at me and said, "those idiots". So, at least I got my CableCard install for $35. Now they need to credit/close my old internet account for services I did not have. They must be hurting after Katrina, as we all are, and are reluctant to extend any kind of courtesy discounts or credits to keep customer goodwill. |
Silver Member Username: Cableguy
Deep in the ...
U.S.
Post Number: 537
Registered: Mar-05
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| Posted on Tuesday, December 13, 2005 - 11:37 am: |
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systemtech,
Yes they can be a pain in the keister, but I disagree about the equation factor. If you really want to step above the rest of your fellow cable techs, you will make it your business to understand all the different quirks, with respective manufacturers. Your job is to install the CC into the customers TV, knowing that some manufacturers require a two-way splitter (JVC and SHARP), knowing what version of software updates are available for the applicable types of TV that require software updates will save you time in the long run. Rather then guessing, arm yourself with knowledge. These things are not going away, and it will only make you a better representative of your company, and respect from customers when they recognize you know about what makes these things tick. I've learned as I've gone along with this things, constant changes and recognizing when the problem is coding, signal related, a bad CC, or a need for corrective action from the manufacturer to resolve problems.
I agree whole heartedly that consumers should know more about the products they purchase, and the different types of formats and broadcast issues, but the same rule applies to cable techs as the consumer. Know thy product, and know it well.
regards, |
New member Username: Bobbyk2002
New Orleans,
LA
USA
Post Number: 5
Registered: Nov-05
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| Posted on Monday, December 26, 2005 - 02:56 am: |
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I have the CableCard. When you change channels, the Sony Bravia has the channel info, but the program name is never displayed. Is this a quirk you have to live with using the CableCard? |
Silver Member Username: Cableguy
Deep in the ...
U.S.
Post Number: 557
Registered: Mar-05
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| Posted on Tuesday, December 27, 2005 - 01:00 pm: |
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It is with Sony, and it also depends on which channels you are referring to. I have a regular Sony that will display some but not all. |
Tim from Parma OH Unregistered guest |
| Posted on Saturday, January 14, 2006 - 08:36 pm: |
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I just ordered a Sony Bravia 32" LCD TV - KDLV32XBR1 with a built-in tuner and am looking to upgrade to HD programming using a cablecard. I was told by my cable company (Cox) that they don't have self-installation. And they charge $29.95 for installation. Does that sound 'right' ?? They say it's a very delicate installation. ALSO, is there anything else I need to consider while getting this option. P.S., a sales guy from Circuit City suggested that I get a real good surge protector for the TV ? Any advice would be appreciated !! |
Silver Member Username: Cableguy
Deep in the ...
U.S.
Post Number: 607
Registered: Mar-05
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| Posted on Wednesday, January 18, 2006 - 08:10 am: |
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Tim~ welcome to the boards. As for you questions:
I'm not sure which systems allow self installation, so I'll leave that up to somebody else. Most systems don't allow it because there are too many factors to allow it. If something in the process is not done exactly to specifications, there will be problems. Heck, just read some of the other threads on CC problems in the HD Reception section of this forum. Does $29.95 sound right? Only if they get it working right the first time. If they don't they should waive the installation fee, because you'll have to wait around another day for a tech to come back and try to figure out why it's not working. Time=Money on both sides of the business. Any surge protector is better then none, especially when it comes to HD equipment. This is one area that you should not pinch pennies on, find one that is rated for lightening strikes, and not the $11 special at Kmart that is just a standard surge protector. There is difference between surge and lightening. A surge is when the power company has a spike in power. As for the CC itself, as long as you understand the current versions of TV's only allow 1-way communication (which means no IPG, MOD, or PPV) you'll enjoy better PQ, less remotes and more features your TV was designed to do. Good luck with it, and please let us know how the installation goes. P.S. Make sure they go over your wiring with a fine toothed comb! |
Unregistered guest |
| Posted on Wednesday, January 18, 2006 - 04:39 pm: |
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Like Tim from OH, I am planning on getting the Sony 32" KDLV32XRB1. I've been reading about the pro/con of CC's and HDTV, etc. Here is my question-Currently I have a Comcast Digital Gold Package STB (which I am billed about $120 a month) hooked up to my ten year old Magnavox CRT. So I get all the analog as well as premium channels (HBO, Showtime, Encore) etc. I also got the NHL Center Ice Package and will likely get the MLB Package in April. Unlike alot of people posting here, I actually like the On Demand options/Menu that I am able to utilize-access to HBO programs/movies at my leisure, music videos, etc. When I get the new Sony, if I simply plug the connection from my current digital cable configuration into the television (like it is currently in my old Magnavox), will this pull in any HDTV channels and if so how will I know? Or do I have to program the channels through the TV (as it recommends in the Owner Manual that I downloaded)? Also, if i hook up an OTA antenna to the UHF/VHF input and program that through the TV, I assume that I may pull in local OTA HDTV signals if my antenna and location are good (Canton, MA by the way). Sorry if this is rambling but I have alot of questions and looking for some insight. |
Silver Member Username: Cableguy
Deep in the ...
U.S.
Post Number: 617
Registered: Mar-05
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| Posted on Friday, January 20, 2006 - 07:58 am: |
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Mike~ If you connect the cable directly to your TV on the "Cable Input" and do an auto-scan, it will define how many analog and viewable digital channels are available. Any clear to air HD or digital channels will appear with a decimal point in the number (24.6 for example). You will not be able to view MOD/PPV or more importantly your special channels MLB and NHL and the IPG. You would need a STB to continue having access to those channels.
"if i hook up an OTA antenna to the UHF/VHF input and program that through the TV, I assume that I may pull in local OTA HDTV signals if my antenna and location are good" Yes, as long as you remember that HD OTA is direct line of sight, meaning you must be pointing the antenna at the source. If you go to antennaweb.org you can type in your address/city/state/zip code and it will tell you what channels are broadcasting in your area, and most importantly which direction (based on a compass 0 degrees being north).
The best case scenario for you would be to keep your current digital STB to get access to the channels you can't with the CC, and get the CC for all the channels it can give you. The PQ of the CC is better then most of the STB's available in the market. The options are there for you, you decide what works best for you. Keep us posted please. Thanks~ |
Unregistered guest |
| Posted on Friday, January 20, 2006 - 04:13 pm: |
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Thank you very much for the info cableguy. Since I wrote that post, I've done a little more digging/research. Again, I don't really mind paying the $120 per month that I already do-I know most people posting here have a crusade against Comcast and cable providers in general and would prefer to go the CC route as it is much cheaper and there is little if any involvement with a cable company. Call me a sucker, but I have no real beef with Comcast and seeing all the issues that CC's present, my thought is to buy the Sony KDL-V32XBR1 and just contact Comcast to replace my current digital STB with an HD STB. I believe this would increase my current bill by about another $10-15 per month. However, with this (and correct me if I am wrong), I will have access to all the available HD channels that my Comcast provider offers (depending upon the tier of service I have-along with all the IN DEMAND/PPV, Sport Packages and on screen menu options that I aready have). And doing it this way would give me most if not all the OTA channels that I would have pulled in if I just hooked up a separate antenna or fed the cable directly to the HDTV from the wall outlet for the clear to air HD channels. I'm just trying to determine what brand/type of HD STB my Comcast provider offers. It seems some are better than others so if I have a choice, I'd like to pick the best-Any thoughts? Also, if I end up doing this, should I expect that when I do watch non-digital channels (2-99) that the PQ might be worse than what I currently see on my non-HD CRT?-With this set up I am thinking of, is there anything I can do/purchase to improve the PQ of the analog channels? Also, should I expect that the PQ of the digital/non HD channels (such as VH1 Classic or Sundance Channel) to also look worse than what I currently see on my CRT? It seems that should be expected based on some other posts I've read. I am just really hesitant to go the CC route right now based on the multitude of issues that have cropped up. Looking forward to any further input. |
Silver Member Username: Cableguy
Deep in the ...
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Post Number: 623
Registered: Mar-05
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| Posted on Friday, January 20, 2006 - 04:38 pm: |
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I can't verify what services Comcast offers with their services, I don't work for them. There are some people posting in here now that I believe do, Cable Tool and CableGirlTech, they might be able to shed some light on what you can and can't get with Comcast. Unless there is a problem with your signals, I would expect some improvement of your analog channels without the STB, of course you can check this before you get a CC, just connect the cable directly to your TV and see how they look directly plugged in. Digital channels shouldn't look any worse, compression and all, then they already do. If you're seeing any break up, it would be wise to have it investigated before you get the CC. If it's not working correctly now, it won't later either. The CC isn't a miracle device, but it does simplify use of remotes, and normally improves the PQ of analog channels. It's best to at least try it out, see if it floats your boat and if it doesn't you're no worse for wear. You might like it, you might not...but you'll never know if you don't try. |
Unregistered guest |
| Posted on Friday, January 20, 2006 - 05:39 pm: |
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Cableguy-thanks again for the input. Let me ask you this way: If I was one your customers, i.e. you went out to an appointment I/the customer scheduled with TWC (I believe that is who you work for) to set up said customer of yours who ordered installation of an HD STB to an integrated HDTV (no CC, no OTA)-and they ask you about PQ of the analog channels and PQ of the non-HD digital channels once you've completed the install as requested, how do you personally answer (again I a realize there are nuances between cable companies but in general, what would you say) for this specific type of set up requested? I have to assume that you have done installs for this exact type of request. Thanks again. |
Silver Member Username: Cableguy
Deep in the ...
U.S.
Post Number: 624
Registered: Mar-05
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| Posted on Friday, January 20, 2006 - 08:21 pm: |
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First and foremost I always discuss operational issues before I begin any work. This way I don't have to go through all the trouble of doing the installation and education of how to use it after it's installed, only to have a customer say "I wasn't told that, take it out and give me what I had before you did this". I usually explain to a customer who has a regular digital STB that the HD STB's have a problem with making the analog channels look grainier then what they are used to seeing with a digital STB. I also point out that analog channels are not/were not intended to viewed on a HD TV on the HDMI or component video inputs. Then explain why their HD TV has RF/Composite Video/S-Video/Component/DVI or HDMI inputs. You have to remember that even though I am a "cable guy", I don't leave any questions when I'm done in a customers home. If it takes me an hour just to explain things, then so be it. I make it my business to understand the intricate details about PQ in relationship to size of screen/viewing distance from the screen/different signal types and why the different inputs can and should be used to maximise viewing enjoyment. I would discuss motion artifacts, go to digital channels and point out video discrepancies that do not exist in analog channels. I go to analog channels and point out analog discrepancies. I also go to HD inputs and show them how different analog and digital channels look when viewed on said HD inputs. To me, there is nothing more powerful then a fully educated customer...the more they know what to expect when viewing different types of formats on different types of inputs, the less likely they are to call back later complaining about the issues that technology contribute to that we have no control over. Things like scan lines, motion artifacts, lip synch issues, and how what they chose as their TV, it's location, lighting and proximity all can affect their perception of channels.
That being said I always treat each individual with unique lessons that apply to their situations. In your case I would show you the difference between analog signals directly to your TV, I would show you how they look through the STB, and I would also show you how they look when viewed on your HD inputs. My way may not be the easiest, but I take pride in making sure when I have left your house there are no questions about how you operate your equipment with what I have installed. I leave detailed instructions on what inputs provide which channels or equipment (dvd,vcr,game units etc...)
" how do you personally answer for this specific type of set up requested?" There is no specific format I use other then evaluating what you have to work with, asking you what you would like to be able to accomplish with yours and my equipment, then coming up with a solution that gives you all the options you are trying to have. I have customers tell me that I should quit working for cable and start my own home theater set up company because I do what I do very well. I have corrected local companies that do home theater installations, on how they are doing things wrong with respect to our cables and equipment. I have contacts at each local home theater or specialty TV stores who call me on a regular basis and coordinate equipment installations, or ask me if I can come out and look at a problem they are having in a home they've installed equipment in. The sad part is they charge customers about $80 and up per hour, and I come out free... Sorry to ramble but I hope I answered your question. There is no uniform way I do things because each home I go to, all the different types of systems and configurations, and the person who is on the receiving end of my lesson all are unique...so is what I do.
Your actual set up: Upgrade to HD STB, verify signal levels and if there is enough signal strength to split your signal, I would hook up both composite and component video/audio jumpers from your STB to your TV. One side of the RF split would go to the HD-STB, the other directly to your TV. This accomplishes two things: #1 you have the ability to use your PIP function that your TV has with split screen feature. #2 it would allow you the option that if you so choose to watch analog channels on their native input (RF coaxial) you could, if you so choose. I would leave you instructions (Sony TV) TV on Video1, STB on analog or digital channels. TV on Video5(component input)for viewing HD channels only, STB on HD channels. TV on antenna input for viewing analog without the STB or when using PIP in conjunction with Video1 and your STB to be able to view analog/analog or analog/digital channels, or TV on video5 with antenna for PIP HD channels/analog channels.
Does that work for you? |
Unregistered guest |
| Posted on Monday, January 23, 2006 - 12:37 pm: |
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Cableguy-that's so much for that info. I can only hope the Comcast rep that ends up doing my install will offer as much insight. As I said earlier, I've pretty much made up my mind to get the Sony KDL-V32XBR1. I printed the PDF of the owner manual from the Sony webpage so I can acclimate myself to the set before I buy it. I agree with you that I think I will split the incoming signal between the HD STB (that line going into the TV's cable input) and a line direct from the outlet (going into the TV's UHF/VHF input. That way I can switch between incoming signals to view the TV either through the HD STB and the cable (which I would use when viewing analog channels). One thing that confused me in reading the owner manual of this particular Sony model is that they go through the various connection to the TV set up options (CC, digital cable box, satellite, no cable box, antenna, etc.) and then they also show set up "if you are using a VCR". Currently I do have a VCR set up. I have the incoming cable going into the STP's input, the output going into the VCR input and the output from the VCR going into the TV. However, the Sony manual has a set up saying if you use a digital STB, you need a "bidirectional splitter" and the manual says to feed the incoming cable to the input of the splitter and then have one line from the splitter going out to the cable input of the TV and the other line going into the iput of the STB with output from the STB into the input of the VCR (so in this set up, there is no cable from the VCR output). I don't understand why I cannot just configure the same way I do right now with my non HD STB and CRT TV? Can you give any insight into Sony's recommended set up? It seems they make it more complicated than it needs to be. Thanks again for all your help |
Silver Member Username: Cableguy
Deep in the ...
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Post Number: 637
Registered: Mar-05
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| Posted on Monday, January 23, 2006 - 03:01 pm: |
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Manuals? I don't need no steen-king manuals!
A couple of options exist.
#1: Take the Composite output from your STB and run it to the VCR Composite input. Composite Output from VCR to any of the available Composite inputs on your TV. This option would give the ability to record any non-HD channel from the STB to your VCR (you could even record the HD stuff, but it may put bars at the top and bottom of the picture as it's a SD not HD output. This also may not be true depending on your STB, if it's an SA8300HD DVR or Pioneer or SA Standard HD STB true as well) This also allows you to keep both your Cable RF input free'd up for your PIP and direct viewing, and also leaves your antenna RF input free'd up for OTA reception. Split RF to STB and Cable RF input as described above, Component or HDMI to TV for the HD channels and there ya go. This option does require the VCR to be on the Line input your connected the STB Composite cables to, and the VCR must be on when viewing analog or digital channels.
Option #2: (I don't like this one)Split the RF signal 2 ways again, take one leg directly to the STB, the other take directly to the VCR RF input, then RF output directly to the TV cable RF input. This option allows you to record any analog channel without affecting any channels you are watching via your STB. Composite wires from STB to TV composite inputs and same with component or HDMI from STB to TV component or HDMI inputs. What I don't like about this set up is that you can not record any digital channels.
Anyway, I could come up with about 4 or 5 different ways to connect your VCR, STB and Cable to do different functions. The 2 above are most common, but I do more advanced connections if the situation dictates. Good luck with it, I'm here if you need help |
MikeG99 Unregistered guest |
| Posted on Monday, January 23, 2006 - 05:05 pm: |
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Thanks cableguy! When you say "composite output" do you mean the actual coaxial cable that carries the cable signal or something else? |
Silver Member Username: Cableguy
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| Posted on Monday, January 23, 2006 - 09:11 pm: |
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composite is the yellow/white/red video cables. RF output=coaxial cable, component=red/green/blue+left and right audio |
Unregistered guest |
| Posted on Wednesday, January 25, 2006 - 01:45 pm: |
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Thanks again-Another thing the TV manual recommends is to program the channels from the TV set up menu and use the TV remote to change channels as opposed to setting the TV to channel 3 or 4 and using the STB remote-I can see doing that for the RF output to the TV's UHF/VHF antenna input but for the STB RF output going into the TV cable input, wouldn't I just want to put TV on channel 3 or 4 and use the STB remote to change channels, access the On Demand stuff? I guess what I am asking is, what is the benefit/drawback from doing what the manual says vs. setting TV channel for the cable input RF to 3/4 and using the STB remote? |
Silver Member Username: Cableguy
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| Posted on Thursday, January 26, 2006 - 09:05 am: |
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mike~ if you connect your STB to your TV using the composite cables, there is no need to run an RF coaxial cable to the tuner, hence you would not need to have the TV on channel 3. Keep your RF inputs on your TV for the straight cable feed (PIP function) and the UHF/VHF antenna for connecting an antenna for OTA HD channels (with antenna) |
Unregistered guest |
| Posted on Thursday, January 26, 2006 - 03:47 pm: |
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Thanks! Can I do that with my current non-HD digital STB? It is going to take a week or two for the Comcast tech to come out with the new HD STB once I make the appointment and I plan on purchasing the TV this weekend. My current Motorola non HD STB has minimal inputs/outputs on the back (not sure the model # but I just went on the Motorola website and my current STB is on par with the DCT 1800 series-essentially just the RF cable input/ouput and component audio input/ouput jacks (which I use component cables connected to my receiver) and a yellow video jack. Please advise. |
Silver Member Username: Cableguy
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| Posted on Monday, January 30, 2006 - 08:45 am: |
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Mike~ the only difference between a non-HD STB and an actual HD STB is the lack of component wires on the non-HD version. Use the same connection steps as above on the non-HD version, when you upgrade to an HD STB, simply add the component wires from the STB to the TV |
Unregistered guest |
| Posted on Wednesday, February 01, 2006 - 08:15 am: |
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Thanks Cableguy-I just bought the TV (KDL-V32XBR1). I will be setting it up over the weekend with the current digital STB and will be contacting Comcast to get someone to come out and set up the HD STB hopefully within the next two weeks. I'm sure I will have some questions as I go forward and I appreciate your insight. |
Silver Member Username: Cableguy
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| Posted on Thursday, February 02, 2006 - 10:46 am: |
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Good luck and keep us posted |
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| Posted on Monday, February 06, 2006 - 10:18 am: |
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i just bought a 61 inch hdtv lcd proj.,but my cable(cox cable)looks bad its almost like you can see the pixels ive had 8 techs out and after switching out my box 4 times(motorolla 160 gig hdtv dvr)there is still no relief ive changed all my cable coaxal coming into and around my house ive been told it is because they over compress the sd channels but even hd isnt what it should be im at the point where i think all i can do is go to dishnet i was in contact with a supervisor at cox but when i started telling him what ive heard he hasnt called me back for 6 days?? im confused can anyone help? |
DISHISBETTER Unregistered guest |
| Posted on Monday, February 06, 2006 - 11:51 am: |
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thx what your saying is accurate cable is sadly falling behind the times they claim to be digital but they are NOT everyone in your loop is sharing your signal unless they change all there oly coaxial in your city (in the upper millions)wich they wont they dont have the bandwith to keep up,if you have cable internet you will notice slowing down in peak times,all cable,dtv,dish have expericened this but dish has countered by going to mpeg4 wich is a 14 u will be lucky to get 9 with cable,do your self a favor dump cable untill they get into the 21 century |
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| Posted on Monday, February 06, 2006 - 12:06 pm: |
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yes dishisbetter ive heard of the mpeg4 compression that is 14 meg is that already started?? what is dish nets phone number cable is a joke |
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| Posted on Monday, February 06, 2006 - 12:07 pm: |
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yes dishisbetter ive heard of the mpeg4 compression that is 14 meg is that already started?? what is dish nets phone number cable is a joke |
SYSTEMTEK Unregistered guest |
| Posted on Thursday, February 09, 2006 - 08:55 pm: |
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Cableguy, I understand what you are saying when it comes to customer service being job 1 and learning more about your job, and I agree. I am self trained for the most part, I am very knowledgeable all the way from the sat dishes, through the headend, all the way to the back of a tv. I work in a government owned cable system that competes with a major MSO, that has been doing phone for almost 4 years, not VOIP, more of a hybrid between POTS and VOIP. Needless to say I've seen a lot and done alot. The reason I bring this all up is that the TV is not my product, the CC is. If it were my gasoline I sold but a buyers car broke down I would not attempt to fix the car. I have done a lot of troubleshooting and figured out the problem, needed new firmware for example, but things like that are what put a bad taste in my mouth about the CC. I can figure anything out, its what I do and how I got to where I'm at. And maybe the fact that we don't charge to install CC added to that taste because of the wasted time troubleshooting. TV manufacturers need to be held responsible for their product and educating them on its usage and abilities. And what about the sellers of these TV's that only put a HD signal on the TV's when they are being displayed, then the customer gets it home and sees that horrible picture from the analog tv's , especially LCD's (in my opinion the worst of them all) we cant be held responsible that all ch's aren't broadcast to us in Digital format. And we cant broadcast everything in digital because not everybody wants a STB on every outlet of their house. I cant wait till the day that Broadcast ch's are in digital format, I will breath an epic sigh of relief. I dont mean for all this to sound so negative, technology is just getting so far ahead and most customers dont feel the need educate themselves. They just want it to work.... |
Silver Member Username: Cableguy
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| Posted on Friday, February 10, 2006 - 11:30 am: |
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SYSTEMTEK~ Everything you stated makes sense to me, as I've been there done that myself. I hope we can agree to disagree on certain aspects of the topic?
If it were my gasoline I sold but a buyers car broke down I would not attempt to fix the car. what if it was your gasoline that caused the car to break down?
TV manufacturers need to be held responsible for their product and educating them on its usage and abilities. Absolutely correct, and the same applies to MSO's and their employees that install or troubleshoot these products. The CC, the signals, and the codes are the MSO's responsibilities, and most of the people that hit these forums are saying the tech showed up and had no idea what to do. That is the responsibility of the MSO to provide training and establish proceedures for intallation and troubleshooting of all equipment, and just because the TV belongs to somebody else, it's our job to get the two working together.
And what about the sellers of these TV's that only put a HD signal on the TV's when they are being displayed, then the customer gets it home and sees that horrible picture from the analog tv's This is a marketing ploy, it's up to the customer to ask the right questions, do a little research and homework before making the purchase. You get to test drive a car before you buy it don't you? Although I agree 100% the store display never addresses the SD pictures, they should also have an SD picture source connected so the customer can see the differences. Bottom line the consumer is the one that should be checking all the features before purchasing.
I dont mean for all this to sound so negative, technology is just getting so fa | |
